The Better Friend

This book, written by Grace Valentine, a young woman who shares her life of loneliness, searching for friends. Middle school, high school, college and independent living are reflected by her need to find her "community." Friends should build you up. But the culture we live in is obsessed with popularity. It is easy to be an energy giver rather than an energy taker. Joy comes from blessing others, shining and sharing Christ's love. 

I did appreciate her emphasis on depending on Jesus as her friend.

"Once you seek Jesus as your friend you have a friend for life who creates miracles unexpectedly."

The Blooming of Delphinium

 

Delphinium Hayes owns a flower shop. She has a keen sense of smell. She can tell about a person by the type of flower their smell represents.  A group of elderly gentleman use her refrigerated cooler to play poker. They are distressed about the conditions of the retirement center.  Delphi faces challenges, both personal and professionally.

This was a delightful and amusing story. The characters were fun and charming. The community of Moonberry Lake is a close knit one. The story was cean and well written. 

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Christmas at Sugar Plum Manor

 

Christmas at Sugar Plum Manor Is a delightful holiday story. Written by Rosanna M. White, in her engaging signature style. 

Lady Mariah Lyons is a breath of sunshine. She and Cyril Lightbourne were childhood friends. Corresponding for years until Mariah's mother took to monitor their letters. Years pass and Cyril returns to Plum Manor, the heir apparent to inherit the legacy of Plumford Manor. Trouble arrives when a Danish lord invites himself to the Manor, with asperations set on Lady Mariah. But Cyril finds that spending time with Mariah has rekindled feelings for her.

This story is a wonderful light romance. Clean and well written. Perfect for the Christmas season.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary e-copy of this book which I received via NetGalley. All views expressed are my honest opinion.

Christmas in Chestnut Ridge

 

Christmas in Chestnut Ridge is a sweet Christmas story. Written by Nancy Naigle, the story takes you on a journey from city girl meets country boy.

Sheila Aldridge is a real estate broker from Richmond VA. When her best friend asks her to join her for Christmas in Chestnut Ridge, Sheila doesn't see how she can step away from her lucrative business. But as things are always slow during the holidays, she decides to make the trip. Mostly to help Natalie with the Christmas Tree Stoll. Sheila meets Fire Chief Tucker and sparks start to fly.

Clean and heart warming, it is a perfect small town Christmas story. It was fun to read a story that was about kindness and caring of neighbors. 

I received a complimentary ebook copy from the publisher, through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

September

 

Born of Gilded Mountains

 

Born of Gilded Mountains by Amanda Dykes is a mystery. A story of reconciliation and hope.

This story is written in a slightly different style. There are letters, newspaper articles, play scenes and a mystery. The two main characters, Rusty Bright and Marybeth Spratts (Mercy Windsor) tell a complicated story. The story tells of friendship, love, loss and hope The mystery flows through the chapters and leads to a treasure hunt.

I found the jumping back and forth was a bit difficult to follow at times. This is not my favorite type of story by this author but if you stick with it, it is worth the read. 

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

August

 

Lamentations 3:23

Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed,

Because His compassions fail not.

They are new every morning;

Great is Your faithfulness.