Thursday, April 30, 2015

Victoria Bylin's newest book is MUST-READ!

I have read books by Victoria Bylin before, but always historical romance. Together With You is the first of her contemporary novels that I have read. I have to admit, I was a little hesitant at first. I usually prefer to read historical romance. However, this book was a very pleasant surprise. I picked it up, intending to read only a couple of chapters and save the rest for tomorrow.  A couple of hours later and more than halfway through the book, it was impossible to put down.  It was apparent that the storyline was close to Mrs. Bylin's heart and I could tell that she had done her research on the area where the story  takes place and the Fetal Alcohol Effects syndrome talked about in the book. 

The story is about a single father Ryan, who is trying his best to connect with his kids, especially his special needs daughter Penny. Along comes Carly, a woman with a special understanding of and connection to Penny. Carly plays a very big role towards Ryan's goal of connecting with his kids.  A special thing about the story that I loved was the sections that were from Penny's point of view. These sections added a lot to the story and had me in tears more than once.  The storyline stayed in motion, there were no lags in the story. Overall, this is a very well-written book. The spiritual themes running through it had me thinking about aspects of my own life that I need to allow God's grace to cover instead of carrying them on my own.  She also covers the topic of forgiveness, which I think probably everyone needs a reminder of every now and again. 

I will definitely be on the lookout for future books by Victoria Bylin.  This book will definitely become a fast favorite. If you enjoy romance, this is a must read. 

*I received a copy of this book from Bethaby House in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own.*


Wednesday, April 15, 2015

After a Fashion was delightful!


I have enjoyed almost every book that Jen Turano has written, and After a Fashion was no exception!  Oliver Addleshaw, a wealthy businessman, and Harriet Peabody, a lower-class hat maker, meet by chance during an anything but normal encounter.  This encounter sets the pattern for their anything but normal future acquaintance.  Ms. Turano exhibits a talent for creating deep characters with a unique blend of humor and strength, with a dash of adventure thrown in.   Some of the situations the characters face will have the reader rolling on the floor in laughter.

I enjoy how this story combines romance and adventure, with a bit of mystery to make the reader want to keep turning the page.  I was not able to put the book down.  The characters have characteristics that make it easy to identify with them: Oliver is ambitious and a little naïve about some of what is going on in his business, and Harriett is strong because of her upbringing but also forthright or soft when she needs to be.  The storyline was easy to follow and I was not able to guess what was going to happen at the end, which made the book better in my opinion. 

I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys a funny romance with a lot adventure and some mystery thrown in.  I did not check, but I’m guessing that After a Fashion is the beginning of another series and I cannot wait to see what Ms. Turano has planned for the other storylines.

*I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.  My opinions are my own.*