My Top 10 Books of 2020 // my favourite reads the year

I know it's a little late for this kind of post but better late than never right?

Usually picking out favourites from a year's worth of reading is a slightly daunting thing & its hard to narrow down the list. But this time, the ten books that did make this list stood out from all the rest and it was easy to pick my very favourites.

All of these books are so dear to my heart & I already cannot wait to reread all of them!

So without further ado, here are my top ten reads of 2020 in the order in which I read them.

Mary Barton by Elizabeth Gaskell // 4 stars

"Mary Barton, the heroine of Elizabeth Gaskell's novel, is beautiful but has been born poor. Her father fights for the rights of his fellow workers, but Mary wants to make a better life for them both. She rashly decides to reject her lover Jem, a struggling engineer, in the hope of marrying the rich mill-owner's son Henry Carson and securing a safe future. But when Henry is shot down in the street and Jem becomes the main suspect, Mary finds herself hopelessly torn between them. She also discovers an unpleasant truth - one that could bring tragedy upon everyone and threatens to destroy her."

If someone asked me what book made me fall in love with classic literature, I would answer with Mary Barton.

This was the very first book I read in 2020 & it was also my first Gaskell book. 

I must say it was a brilliant book to begin the year with! I adored it so much that it has made its way onto my list of all-time favourites.   

To summarize Mary Barton in my own words, it follows the story of a young woman, Mary Barton, and other wonderful characters through a period of immense poverty and suffering of the working classes in the 1840s and how it affects each of them as well as how each person deals with it.

Mary's father John Barton, becomes more and more resentful towards the rich and well off classes under whom he and many others are employed. He continues to become embittered against the richer classes until he is driven to act in a drastic way that is to have deep repercussions on all those around him.

Without her father's knowledge, since it would greatly displease him, Mary is courted by the son of a rich mill-owner, Harry Carson, who represents everything that John Barton resents. (see my full Goodreads review)

This book completely exceeded all my expectations and I highly recommend you pick it up if you haven't before. It's such an underrated classic in my opinion! 

Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier // 5 stars

"On a trip to the South of France, the shy heroine of Rebecca falls in love with Maxim de Winter, a handsome widower. Although his proposal comes as a surprise, she happily agrees to marry him. But as they arrive at her husband's home, Manderley, a change comes over Maxim, and the young bride is filled with dread. Friendless in the isolated mansion, she realises that she barely knows him. In every corner of every room is the phantom of his beautiful first wife, Rebecca, and the new Mrs de Winter walks in her shadow."

Another first for me and one that did not disappoint! I read it during lockdown in Autumn & it was the perfect gothic read as it felt both cosy & chilling at the same time.

Rebecca is a very gripping novel that captures you from the first page and doesn't let go until the last sentence.

Chapter by chapter, I was slowly drawn in by the intriguing plot, the beautiful descriptions that made you feel as though you were there, the mystery and the slight suspense as things lead up to a climax. (see my full Goodreads review)

It was so good and I'm hoping I enjoy the rest of her novels just as much.

If you have never read a Daphne du Maurier book, this is a great one to start with! 

The Murder on the Links by Agatha Christie // 5 stars 

"On a French golf course, a millionaire is found stabbed in the back…

An urgent cry for help brings Poirot to France. But he arrives too late to save his client, whose brutally stabbed body now lies face downwards in a shallow grave on a golf course.

But why is the dead man wearing his son’s overcoat? And who was the impassioned love-letter in the pocket for? Before Poirot can answer these questions, the case is turned upside down by the discovery of a second, identically murdered corpse…"

Last year I decided to start reading through all Agatha Christie's Poirot novels in the order in which Goodreads arranged them. So The Murder on the Links was my second one and I loved it so, so much!

Firstly, I don't understand how Agatha Christie can pack so much into a short 200-something page book! The rollercoaster ride she takes you on in this book is crazy and keeps you turning the pages until the very end. 

I adored how Poirot & Hastings interacted in this book, there where several humorous moments between them and also some rather endearing ones.

The ending was shocking but that is all I am going to say on that matter.

All in all, this book is phenomenal and shall always be one of my very favourite Poirot mysteries.

(read my full review here)

Mind Games by Nancy Mehl // 5 stars

"Kaely Quinn's talents as an FBI behaviour analyst are impossible to ignore, no matter how unorthodox her methods. But when a reporter outs her as the daughter of an infamous serial killer, she's demoted to field agent and transferred to St. Louis.

When the same reporter who ruined her career claims to have received an anonymous poem predicting a string of murders, ending with Kaely's, the reporter's ulterior motives bring his claim into question. But when a body is found that fits the poem's predictions, the threat is undeniable, and the FBI sends Special Agent Noah Hunter to St. Louis.

Initially resentful of the assignment, Noah is surprised at how quickly his respect for Kaely grows, despite her oddities. But with a brazen serial killer who breaks all the normal patterns on the loose, Noah and Kaely are tested to their limits to catch the murderer before anyone else--including Kaely herself--is killed."

There were several things I especially liked about this book that set it apart from the other suspense fiction I've read but I'll put one right here (if you'd like to read my full review, click here).

The thing that impressed me the most was the prominent faith content.

Usually, in books similar to this, a somewhat cliche and cheesy Christian message is simply slipped in somewhere in the story as though just to make it qualify for being labelled as Christian fiction (in my experience anyway).

This wasn't the case with Mind Games. Kaely has several conversations with Noah about her faith and the writer also points out Kaely's own struggles and how she depends on Christ to help her through even the darkest of times.

I desperately need to get my hands on the next two books in the series! 

Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers // 5 stars

"California's Gold Country, 1850. A time when men sold their souls for a bag of gold and women sold their bodies for a place to sleep. Angel expects nothing from men but betrayal. Sold into prostitution as a child, she survives by keeping her hated alive. And what she hates most are the men who use her, leaving her empty and dead inside.

Then she meets Michael Hosea, who obeys God's call to marry Angel and love her unconditionally. Slowly, day by day, he defies Angel's every bitter expectation until, despite her resistance, her frozen heart begins to thaw.

But with her unexpected softening come overwhelming feelings of unworthiness and fear. And so Angel runs. Back to the darkness, away from her husband's pursuing love, terrified of the truth she can no longer deny: Her final healing must come from the One who loves her even more than Michael Hosea does . . . the One who will never let her go."

How does one even begin to talk about this book? I finally read it after hearing Jenna (@jennavanmourik) rave about it countless times and I quickly discovered why it has captured so many reader's hearts over the years.

It writing sucked me in from the very beginning and I was so engrossed in the story from then on.

I loved the characters in this book. They all felt very raw and real and I became quite attached to them by the end of it all. 

This was an emotional rollercoaster of a book but I am sure it will touch your soul in one way or another! (read my full review)

The Freja Peachtree Series (3 books) // 4 stars

"For the first ten years of Freja's life, she and her mother Clementine have roamed the Arctic in search of zoological wonders. Happy, content, together. Freja and Clem. Clem and Freja. But now, everything is changing, and Clementine must send Freja away to live with her old friend Tobias, a bestselling crime writer and, quite possibly, the most absent-minded man on earth. Tobias isn't used to life with a child, and Freja isn't used to people at all, but together they'll stumble into an Italian adventure so big that it will change things forever."

What a sweet & delightful series this was!

Freja Peachtree and her mother Clemintine, share a strong bond. Clemintine is Freja's entire world until one day when they must be separated for a time.

That's when Freja is placed in the care of the absent-minded, best-selling crime writer Tobias Appleby and an adventure unfolds as they take a trip to Rome and become tangled up in a mystery and Italian culture. It was funny, had me smiling and giggling and feeling warm and fuzzy.

There are three books in this series and they are all equally sweet & endearing. 

The Girl, the Dog and the Writer in Rome (review)

The Girl, the Dog and the Writer in Provence (review)

The Girl, the Dog and the Writer in Lucerne (review)

Death on the Nile by Agatha Christie // 5 stars

"The tranquillity of a cruise along the Nile is shattered by the discovery that Linnet Ridgeway has been shot through the head. She was young, stylish and beautiful, a girl who had everything – until she lost her life.

Hercule Poirot recalls an earlier outburst by a fellow passenger: ‘I’d like to put my dear little pistol against her head and just press the trigger.’ Yet in this exotic setting,’ nothing is ever quite what it seems…" 

I read this along with some friends & it was such a fun experience to discuss who we thought had done it and throw our suspicions around. 

Death on the Nile was set up so well and we get to meet the characters and become familiar with them in the opening chapters of the book before any of the real action begins.

I just love Poirot and his interactions with all the passengers on the steamer on its way down the Nile.

He can be compassionate and feeling when it is needed, and I love seeing this aspect of his personality.

I had the inkling that I knew who did it, as I had seen the David Suchet movie adaptation but I only finally remembered who it was during the final few chapters. I was still surprised and amazed when the killer was revealed! (my review)

Greenglass House by Kate Milford // 4 stars 

"It’s wintertime at Greenglass House. The creaky smuggler’s inn is always quiet during this season, and twelve-year-old Milo, the innkeepers’ adopted son, plans to spend his holidays relaxing. But on the first icy night of vacation, out of nowhere, the guest bell rings. Then rings again. And again. Soon Milo’s home is bursting with odd, secretive guests, each one bearing a strange story that is somehow connected to the rambling old house. As objects go missing and tempers flare, Milo and Meddy, the cook’s daughter, must decipher clues and untangle the web of deepening mysteries to discover the truth about Greenglass House—and themselves."

As you can see, I got into middle-grade fiction last year. I picked this up after I'd heard several people talk about it on YouTube and Instagram. I read it around Christmas time and even though its summertime when we celebrate Christmas, I loved feeling those cosy white Christmas feels through reading this book.

"The smells of baking ham and pies and bubbling cranberry sauce with orange drifted through the first floor to mingle with the pine and bayberry and peppermint scents of the candles."

The mystery was so well done and there was such a variety of characters to read about. 

I can't wait to read the rest of the series and revisit Greenglass House!

Bonus mentions:

Those are my top ten, but here are a few honourable mentions I wanted to add.

~ The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis 

I read this entire series for myself for the first time last year and thoroughly enjoyed them.

~ Passion & Purity by Elisabeth Elliot 

Such a good book & it really helped me during a particular season of my life last year. 

~ Kingdom's Dawn (Kingdom #1) by Chuck Black 

I began this series and really enjoyed the allegorical storytelling. 

~ Good Wives by Louisa May Alcott

I enjoyed this book but not quite as much as Little Women, which will al be dear to my heart!

Have you read any of my top ten books? What did you think?

keep blooming,

Hannah

In My Father's House ~ Book Review

Hello darlings!

Guess what?
It is time for another book review because this week I finished reading this little (but amazing) book and I simply had to share my thoughts with you!


I've had this book sitting on my bookshelf for ages! My mum suggested I get it at a book sale once.
But last week I decided to read it and I am so glad I did (and wondering why I never read it sooner!).


Side Note: I apologize if my format for book reviews keeps changing. I am trying to figure out what works for me & this blog! I hope you enjoy this book review nevertheless!



Synopsis
"Many of the fiercest battles of the Civil War were fought in the home. Oscie Mason knows this all too well.
The first shots of the war were fired on her front lawn--a sign of things to come.
Oscie's a proud daughter of the Old South, but her stepfather, Will McLean, thinks the world of her childhood must change. 
Oscie won't accept anything he has to say. And the tension between them is about to explode.
To escape the war, Will Mc Lean moves the family to a quiet town called Appomattox.
But the war will follow them there, as sure as the hurtful battles will continue in Oscie's home, and in her heart. Can Oscie call a truce--or will all that she cherishes become a casualty of war?"


First, I have to comment on Rinaldi's writing. It was fantastic!
So simple and easy to read, yet to gripping and beautiful. All the characters were portrayed in a very real way and their imperfections weren't covered up.

My favourite characters were Oscie Mason and Will McLean.
I loved reading about their interactions and how their relationship grew as the story progressed.
It was also nice to e another type of relationship (in this a stepfather & daughter relationship) be the centre of the story rather than a romantic relationship.
I loved Oscie's spirit, McLean's will to do the right thing and care for his family.


The story itself is based on the real-life McLean family, whose front yard was where the first shots of the war were fired and later in their parlour where the war came to an end.
When I discovered that most of the characters in this book were real it only made me more fascinated and in love with this book!
It made me look into Wilmer McLean (Will McLean in the book) on the Internet and whet my appetite to find more stories set around the Civil War.
In my online search, found a photo of Osceola (Oscie) Mason's gravestone, which I found fascinating!


Throughout this book, if you pay attention, are some themes of forgiveness & healing which only make this story even more wonderful.

There are may amazing quotes in this book too. I will share a few of my personal favourites!

~ ~ ~ ~

"He had to put down the sacks of sugar and coffee then. Because, though he could hold off a mob at the depot with no trouble, even he couldn't kiss a girl with his arms full of contraband."

(This had me smirking!)

~ ~ ~ ~

"He looked down at my hand which he still held in his own.  'You're betrothed to a soldier,' he said.

'I told you not to give your heart to a soldier, Oscie.'

'They keep hearts best,' I said. 'Or so I've found.'

He was struck speechless then."

~ ~ ~ ~

"He was baiting me and enjoying it. He knew I was up to it. And, though he wouldn't tolerate sass, 

he expected me to give as well as I was getting. But something else was happening here, also. I was asking him to let me go. The way a girl asks her father. And he was getting ready to release me.

The way a father does, when he knows a girl's grown. But it wasn't any easier for him than I suspect it would have been for mt own daddy. Part of being grown up, I knew, meant I had to leave him with something. It wasn't anything he hadn't earned. And he was waiting for it."

~ ~ ~ ~

I sincerely hope that by now I have convinced you that you should go read this book RIGHT NOW!

It is truly a wonderful book. 

Now I am, of course, aching to read more of Ann Rinaldi's books...

keep blooming,

   

The Secrets of Paper & Ink ~ Book Review

Hello darlings!

Today I am delighted to bring you a review of a new favourite book of mine!

A while ago I saw this book popping up everywhere on bookstagram but for some reason, I thought nothing of it.
Then a few weeks ago I spotted it at our local library and thought I may as well give it a go.
I am so glad that I read it.
I can't wait to read more books by this author but for now, I'll share my thoughts on this book!

Synopsis
"As a counsellor, Sophia Barrett is trained to help people cope with their burdens. But when she meets a new patient whose troubles mirror her own, she realizes she hasn't dealt with the pain of her recent past. After making a snap decision to get away for the summer, Sophia moves overseas to an apartment above a charming bookstore in Cornwall, England.
She is hopeful she will find peace there surrounded by her favourite thing: great literature.
Bookstore owner Ginny Rose is desperate to save her business without asking for help from a husband who's decided to take a break from their marriage.
Ginny never imagined she'd be solely responsible for keeping afloat her husband's dream, but the unexpected friendship with her new renter has her feeling more optimistic.
Between the two of them--and Ginny's brother-in-law, William-- the bookstore might stand a chance.
Then Sophia finds a notebook in the bookstore that contains journal entries from Emily Fairfax, a governess who lived in Cornwall more than 150 years ago. Sophia learns that Emily harboured a secret passion for becoming an authoress--as well as a deep love for her childhood friend, Edward, whose station she dared not dream to touch.
Eager to know more of Emily's story, Sophia goes on a quest--dragging Ginny and William--to discover the heart of the woman behind the beautiful entries. Soon Ginny's need to save the bookstore becomes more than a way to save her marriage, and Sophia finds new purpose of her own.
Together they find that sometimes both heartache and hope can reach across the centuries."



The Pros
Reading this book made me feel like I was wrapped in a cosy blanket, sipping a hot cup of tea.
I actually already feel like rereading it and that doesn't happen often!
At first stepping back and forth between Sophia, Ginny and Emily's stories was a little confusing but once I got into it I followed along easily.
I love a good historical so it was nice to have part of the story set in the 1800s. I could have happily stayed in Emily's story for the whole book but the way that all three women's lives intertwined was quite beautiful.

This book was actually kind of refreshing to read because while there was still a hint of romance in the plot, it wasn't the focal point. The story focuses more on healing, hope and friendships.

I loved the setting in Cornwall, England. It is my dream to visit England someday!
It was so bookish, being set around a bookshop, Sophia is an avid reader (along with William), the search for Emily Fairfax through clues in her journal and her dream to be an authoress.
I loved this aspect of the whole book!

One quote that stuck out to me was this one:
"We must embrace that story and remember that who we are is not defined by the ups and downs of our lives--the failure OR the successes. Nay, we are instead defined by Whose we are."



The Cons
The spiritual content was lacking in my opinion. The author just scratched the surface of something that could have gone a little deeper and could have put her point across a little clearer and stronger.

One comment was made that didn't really need to be there but it was about a married couple so it wasn't impure.


In conclusion, I loved this story. I hugged the book when I was finished because it was that sort of book.
I cannot wait to read Lindsay's other books, in fact, I already have the ebook for After The Tide, written by her!

If you love stories about friendships, books and healing then this book is for you! And if you love split time novels and stories about writers and books, then this book is also for you!


keep blooming,

Book Recommendations ~ a few of my favourite books

Hello darlings!

There has been a distinct lack of bookish posts on this blog I am about to change that.
I am going to try to answer the question that we book worms dread, and that is (drumroll please!)....... "What is your favourite book?"

Of course, I have a few! One simply cannot choose only one favourite book.
So today I am going to try and narrow down my large list of favourite reads to just a few very good ones I 'd like to recommend!

(And these are by no means in any order.)

Stepping Heavenward by Elizabeth Prentiss

Genre: Classics/Christian Fic/Historical Fic

When I first began listening to this book as an audiobook, I had no idea how much I would love it. I believe it is right up there with Little Women on the list of books that all girls and young women should read! It is written in journal entries and at times almost feels like a devotional. There are so many lessons in this book and I can't recommend it enough.
I must share this slightly comical quote with you!
"Oh, speak plainly by all means! I am quite sick and tired of having the truth served up in pink cotton and scented with lavender."

A Rose for the ANZAC Boys by Jackie French

Genre: YA/Historical

I reread this again this year and I loved it just as much, if not more, than when I read it the first time(a few years ago now).
Stories set during one of the World Wars always fascinate me, even though they were sad times.
This book follows a young woman named Midge as she and her friends set up a canteen for the soldiers who pass through the railway station.
She goes on to do much more than she ever expected. I just love this story!

The Beautiful Pretender by Melanie Dickerson

Genre: Romance/Christian Fic/Fairy Tale

I actually recommend you read this whole series beginning with book one, The Huntress of Thornbeck Forest, but since this middle book is my favourite out of the three I going to talk about this one today!
First off, doesn't it just have a gorgeous cover? It is a fairy tale retelling set in the Medieval time period.
I love the characters and how in each book we get to revisit the characters from the previous book.

The Help by Kathryn Stockett

Genre: Historical Fiction

Every time I think about reading this book again I get all excited! I'm planning to save it for Summer because it seems to fit with the season.
I saw the movies before I read this and while the movie is great, the book is better.
I am drawn to stories about African American's (or coloured people in general) and their lives through history. (I should maybe write a post about that!) The Help is fabulously written and the characters are really well done too. My favourites would have to be Minny and Celia!

Love in Disguise by Carol Cox

Genre: Historical/Christian Fic

If you can't tell, I love historical books. This is another of my favourites. It is a mystery with a hint of romance. I like that the romance doesn't overpower the rest of the plot.
Ellie Moore becomes a Pinkerton agent and goes undercover disguised as two different women. As the reader, you will worry that she will be discovered before she can solve the mystery keep you turning the pages until the end!

Let Me Be A Woman by Elisabeth Elliot

Genre: Christian Living/Nonfiction

I like this book because each chapter is short and are great to read before bed and Elisabeth Elliot has so much wisdom to share!

This book is full of wisdom on marriage, womanhood, discipline, and the Christian life. I wrote on my Goodreads that I thought it best suited to someone who is engaged or close to being married, but really any woman should read it.

I'd like to reread it in the near future!

Those are just a few titles I wanted to recommend to you if you are on the hunt for your next read.

Let me know if have already read some or which ones you'll be adding to your TBR!

keep blooming,

A Collection of Quotes // Kisses from Katie

Hello darlings!

I thought that instead of a normal book review, this time I would just share my favourite quotes from the book Kisses from Katie.

This book is a wonderful story of how God used and is still using her to make Him known among the nations. I highly suggest you pick it up, it will change you in one way or another.
This post is a compilation of quotes that I loved and highlighted as I was reading.

• • • •

~ Thankfully, God's plans do not seem to be affected much by my own. ~

~ Jesus wrecked my life, shattered it to pieces, and put it back together again more beautifully. ~

~  have learned that something happens when one makes herself available to God: He starts moving in ways no one could imagine. ~

~ This was one of the many instances when the Lord has shown me that the more I give of myself, the more He fills me up. The more I love, the more love I have to give. ~

~ But so often, when we stop to be kind when we don't really want to, that's when the sacrifice becomes most rewarding. ~

People often asked me then as they do now, "How do you do it?"

The answer has never changed and it is so simple: I don't. It's just a little bit of coffee and a whole lot of Jesus. This plan, these "accomplishments," they are so not my own.

I am dependant.

Powerless.

Weak.

Drowning. 

While those adjectives may sound scary, they put me in a beautiful place, a place where I couldn't go one minute without crying out to my Father or I would sink.

If I continue to preach the gospel, and more importantly, live the gospel, here--even if outward conditions never change or change very slowly--and these people can live eternally with Jesus in heaven someday, a few years of suffering will pale in comparison.

~ Being a Christ-follower means being acquainted with sorrow.

We must know sorrow to be able to fully appreciate joy. Joy costs pain, but the pain is worth it. ~

Even Jesus kept His scars after the resurrection. My stains are beautiful to Him and as I become dirtier and more beat up, I am becoming perfect, transformed into the image of the One who made me.

• • • •

I think that that last one is so beautiful! If you think about it, since Jesus became bruised, wounded, dirty and bloody for us, when we are true followers of Him we will ultimately become like this too. But he sees that as beautiful. To Him, it is beautiful because it shows complete surrender, total trust and reliance on Him. We are powerless, but He is our strength.

I just think it is a powerful image to think of. 

I hope these words made you think. I hope that they inspired or encouraged you. 

Please read the complete story in Katie's book, you will not regret it!

keep blooming,

Hannah

Weddings, Willows & Revised Expectations // Book Review

I had to use an image of a willow tree of course!

Hello darlings!

I ended up taking a little break from reading romance and any fiction in general, with the exception of a few books that I really needed to read, like this one (since the review was due by October).
So this past week I read Weddings, Willows and Revised Expectations and now I am here to give you my thoughts!

I was introduced to this author through Lindsey at Books for Christian Girls and then became acquainted with V. Joy Palmer through Instagram.
Last month I read Love, Lace and Minor Alterations by V. Joy Palmer and really enjoyed it. I couldn't wait to dive into this book.
Sadly, I didn't love it as much as I'd hoped I would. To me, it didn't quite live up to the previous book.
But I will do my best to explain my thoughts to you in this review!



Disclaimer ~ In accordance with FTC regulations, I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not compensated, nor was a positive review required. All opinions are my own.

Synopsis
"Seventeen years after being orphaned, Apryl Burns and her twin sister Courtney have their own expectations for life.
While Courtney continues to shine at everything, Apryl holds fast to the mantra that as long as her potato chip stash remains intact, then she'll be fine.
 But when their beloved grandmother ends up injured and unable to manage her struggling antique store, Courtney makes it their mission to revamp the business and save what's left of their family legacy.
Despite rampant doubts in her abilities, Apryl finds herself trapped under the weight of family loyalty as they transition to a wedding venue decorating service. Soon she's forced to ask (translation: blackmail) their grandmother's renter/handyman, Chance McFarland, for help, and arrangement  that is made even worse by the fact that Chance is her former (ahem, and current) crush.

Chance knows a few dozen things about family loyalty, which is why he begrudgingly agrees to  Apryl's insane plan. While Apryl claims they're archenemies, the girl Chance only glimpsed in their teens starts to emerge, stealing what remains of his heart.
But expectations are a powerful thing. Amidst the glamorous weddings and swaying willows, can those old expectations be revised into something new?"

The Pros
First off, I have to say that I love the covers and titles for both of Palmer's books! They're perfectly fitted to the wedding settings in both books.
The titles may not make much sense to someone who hasn't read them, but as you read the stories, you begin to see how the titles perfectly fit the book's contents.

I loved getting to see Izze & Miles from Love, Lace and Minor Alterations again!
Other things I liked about this book were all the fun weddings that Apryl decorated. There was a ritzy Roaring Twenties wedding, a vintage travel themed wedding, and my favourite, the Anne of Green Gables one! This was fun aspect of the whole book that I enjoyed reading about.
I loved the cute romantic things that Apryl and Chance did together, like splashing in the ocean together. I also liked the fact that Apryl and Chance knew each other in high school so there was no insta-love.

One thing I enjoyed about reading this as an eBook was that I could highlight certain lines, and not feel guilty about ruining a real book.
These were some of my favourite quotes!

"All the bookworms I know tend to suffer from an overactive imagination."

"Apryl blushed, something Chance rather liked."

"You've reached the voicemail of Apryl Burns. You can leave me a message or try texting me, but I recommend showing up on person with a pan of brownies." (Great mind Apryl!)

"I had no idea that the tiles on the floor made a pattern." "Yes, it's amazing what you can find when you clean."

We not only get to see Apryl & Chance's romance but also Courtney's own love story. So it's like a two in one package. This felt out of place and confused me a little at first but then it all fell into palce and it was nice.

I have read a few books set in the wedding business and I quite like it as a setting for a story. (Reminding myself I still have a bunch of Janice Thompson books to read! A lot of hers are centred around wedding businesses.)
I do recommend reading these books in order, even though they can be read as standalones, everything will just make more sense and be more fun if you read LLAMA first.

One other funny thing is that in my neighbourhood, there's a guy who resembles Palmer's description of Chance and so that is how I pictured him!


The Cons
Now about the characters, I 'fell in love' with the little family introduced in the previous book and really liked Izze and Miles as a couple.
Apryl, Courtney and Chance however, I found harder to like and relate to.
I also found Apryl and Chance's sarcastic and pretty hurtful comments got a bit too much. In the words of Chance himself, "Sarcasm does not become you, Apryl." Sarcasm is so popular nowadays and I do think sometimes it is funny, but I also think we've go to be aware that it can hurt people's feelings. A lot.
That was the main thing that put me off. But also just the fact that the characters didn't agree with me as much as the characters from LLAMA.

There were a LOT of references to movies and other fandoms in this book, mostly relating to Batman, which I have know clue about! But there were a few Downton Abbey references that made my DA fan smile!
The witty comments were laughable, but not as much as in LLAMA (can you tell that I really liked the first book?).


I am not saying this book is bad, it just do for me what Palmer's first book did, which was make me laugh, giggle, swoon and smile at her characters and the message of waiting for the right one and being content in singleness.

If you want a nice, clean, contemporary book with a good Christian message, then this book might be for you. Also if you are Batman or potato chip fan, you will get along splendidly with our main girl, Apryl!


I also recommend you read Love, Lace and Minor Alterations!


keep blooming,

xo, Hannah

Love Defined ~ A Book Review

Hello darlings!

It's time for another book review!


I read Kristen & Bethany's first book, Girl Defined last year and enjoyed it very much. So I was thrilled to finally get my hands on a copy of Love Defined earlier this year.

I feel like I read Love Defined at just the right time in my life. Reading it is like having two older sisters giving you all their best advice based on their life experiences and of course, the Bible.

Love Defined answers a lot of the most common questions asked by single Christian women today. But whether you are single or currently in a relationship, I am sure you will benefit from this book!
Both sisters speak from past dating experiences and give you insight from both the single girls perspective and the married lady's perspective.
The back cover might do a better job of explaining than me!

Back Cover Synopsis
In a culture obsessed with love and romance, why is it so hard for us to find satisfying love that lasts? Maybe we've been looking at this thing called love all wrong.

In this insightful, encouraging, and totally candid book, sisters Kristen Clark and Bethany Baird share a radically better and refreshingly biblical approach to navigating your love life life. Covering topics such as true love, purposeful relationships, sex, boundaries and singleness, Love Defined will take you on a journey to discovering God's good design for romance.

While I loved this book as a whole, my favourite chapters were Taking Femininity into Your Love Life, Five Strategies for Thriving as a Single Girl, How to Be "Just Friends" with Guys, and How Do I Know if He's "the One"?.


Now for a couple of my favourite quotes from the book!

When personal happiness becomes our greatest pursuit in a romantic relationship, all our decisions will be driven by that motivation. Our focus is on getting what we want when we want it rather than on glorifying God.

Instead of being on the hunt for Mr Right, we need to be in the Word becoming Miss Right.


Basically, if you have not read this book yet, I have on thing to say to you.
"What are you waiting for?"
This book is a must read for all young women!


keep on blooming,

Hannah

Of Fire and Lions // Book Review

Hello darlings!

It has been a hot minute since I've written a book review for you and I am glad to be sharing one today.

I had seen this book getting a lot of hype in the bookish community I am part of on Instagram, so when I saw it sitting on a shelf in the library I decided to give it a go.
This was my first time ever reading a biblical fiction novel and also my first from the author Mesu Andrews.

So what did I think? Let me tell you but first here is what the book is about.

• • • •

Back Cover Synopsis
"Belili wears her children's disdain like a heavy cloak. The weight of their contempt threatens to crush her spirit, but she has perfected the art of survival.
She learned it when she escaped death nearly seventy years ago after the Babylonians ransacked Jerusalem and took its finest young people as captives.
Years later she survived among idol worshippers and in King Nebuchadnezzar's court by donning an identity that shrouded her with guilt and shame.

She's kept secrets from Daniel, her childhood friend and love of her life, but as the Medo-Persian army invades, the thread of Belili's deception unravels and her tightly wound secrets begin to unfurl.

When tensions mount in the land of their exile, Belili will do anything to keep her family safe even though each step leads them closer to the truth.
Will Daniel die in a pit of lions before she can make things right between them?
Or will the God who rescued Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego save her husband and replace her spirit of heaviness with a garment of praise?"

• • • •

We are introduced to our main character, Belili, when she is an elderly woman and throughout the book, she has flashbacks to events in her past that link up to her current circumstances.
At first, though I knew they were there, these flashbacks confused me but as I got deeper into the book everything fell into place and made sense.

Mesu's writing was captivating in the first half and then for some reason in the second half of the book I became less engaged.

The book of Daniel is a story I only know vaguely and it was interesting seeing the author link her story to the true events that I was familiar with from the Bible. Like Daniel and his friends being favoured among all the young men as the most knowledgeable, skilful and wise, the men walking in the blazing fire, and Daniel being thrown in the lion's den.

It made me curious about this rather well-known man from the Bible and about the ancient Bible times and the culture.

A note on the sexual content, there were a couple of parts where a comment made me a little uncomfortable but that was it.

Belili or Abigail is Daniel's wife in this fictional glimpse into what might have been what Daniel's life was life.
She is imprisoned by her secrets and the guilt and shame of her past. Her children especially her eldest daughter Kezia cannot forgive her for abandoning them when they needed her.
Belili experiences various trials in her life as well as marvellous displays of God's power but finds it hard to believe that He hears her prayers despite her tainted past.

Rating

So my overall thoughts are that I did enjoy this book, the plot, the setting and the characters. I don't really see myself rereading it in the future though. But I have to mention that I think they did a great job with the cover design!

As for my thoughts on the genre of biblical fiction, I think its quite interesting and cool to imagine what a persons life might have been like.

Keep on blooming (and reading),

xoxo
Hannah

Love in Disguise // Book Review

This is the second time that I have to start this review because whilst I was halfway through, it disappeared from my drafts!
So, a few weeks ago I had a bookish craving for a historical/Western novel and I picked up this one.
I really enjoyed it and I had to share my thoughts about it.

~ • ~ • ~

About the Book

"Jobless and down to her last dime, Ellie Moore hears about a position with the Pinkerton Detective Agency and believes it's the perfect chance to put her acting skills and costumes to use. Reluctantly, the agency agrees to give her one assignment, one chance to prove herself. Disguised as Lavinia Stewart, a middle-aged widow, Ellie travels to Arizona to begin her investigation.
When the need arises, she also transforms into the dazzling Jessie Monroe, whose vivacious personality encourages people to talk.
Mine owner Steven Pierce is going to lose his business if he can't figure out who's stealing his silver shipment. In his wildest dreams, he never expected to receive help from a grey-haired widow...or to fall in love with her beautiful niece.
Then the thieves come after Lavinia and Jessie. Ellie isn't safe no matter which character she plays!
Should she give up and reveal her true identity? What will Steven do when he realizes the woman he's falling in love with doesn't really exist?

Set in 1880s Arizona, Love in Disguise blends romance, humour and mystery for a can't put down read."




My Rating

Now let me tell why I gave this book 5 stars!

• The plot was great and since I had not read the back cover I just dove right in and enjoyed it all the more because I knew nothing.
The mystery was intriguing and kept me guessing right till the moment the culprit was revealed. I also loved that the romance plot wasn't too strong. The romance thread of the story only starts about halfway into it and it's very light too.

• The setting was the perfect small Wild West town I wanted for a historical novel.

• It was pretty clean in regards to the sexual content as well, because of the light romance.

• Though the faith content could have been a little more obvious, it was good!

• I had to share this quote from Steven to Ellie because it is just too sweet! Spoiler: 
( His hand cupped her chin and lifted it so that she stared straight into his eyes. "I see the beauty of your character--and it takes my breath away." ).

• The fact that underneath her disguise Ellie wasn't a stunningly beautiful woman but her character was true and that was what Steven loved about her, even after she removed her costume and makeup.


Add the book on Goodreads


Thus concludes my thoughts on this novel. I enjoyed this book a lot and I look forward to reading more from the author, Carol Cox!

What are you reading currently?
Do you like historical novels?


xoxo
Hannah

Girl Defined Book Review

Oh my goodness! This book! This book is amazing! I almost have no words for it but luckily I have enough to form a book review.
This year I wanted to read more Christian non-fiction and this book was high on my list.
It did not disappoint!

Back Cover Synopsis

"In a culture where airbrushed models and ultra-driven career women define beauty and success, it's no wonder we have a distorted view of femininity. Girl Defined offers a distinctly God-centered view of beauty, femininity, and self-worth. Based firmly in God's design for our lives, this book invites us on a liberating journey toward a radically better vision for femininity--one that ends with the kind of hope, purpose, and fulfillment we've been yearning for."

Everything! Honestly, this book was amazing and so helpful. It's hard to find the words to describe it. It really gave me a new perspective on godly femininity, which I am all for! Godly femininity the way these ladies go about it and uncover it is so beautiful and makes you really inspired. We, women, have a purpose and a great God who designed us different from men for a reason.

Here are a few quotes that I loved:

"Be the woman who inspires change in others through your obedience to God." -Girl Defined

"Love is an action, not a feeling." -Girl Defined

"The most successful women actively strive to merge their earthly work with their eternal value." 

-Girl Defined

It's a great book, girls! I had no problems with anything. They base their points on scripture and everything they have learned is from their experiences and the scriptures.

Here's a blurb from inside the book: "Girl Defined challenges girls to question 'normal' and think through what will ultimately bring them the most satisfaction in life." -Jessie Minassian, author of  Crushed, Unashamed and Backwards Beauty

There! Please read it now!

All women. All women of all ages. From like 14-99! Every woman, in every stage of life, should know what it means to be a woman.

I highly recommend this book, if you couldn't tell and I hope I have convinced you to go and pick it up.

Girl Defined blog & website

Buy the book

xoxo

Hannah

The Magic of Ordinary Days Book Review

I was first introduced to this story when my family watched the Hallmark adaptation movie. I must confess that I do think the movie is slightly better than the book but overall it's a nice story.
So here I am rounding up all my thoughts in this book review!

Back Cover Synopsis(from the book)

"Olivia Dunne, a studious minister's daughter who dreams of becoming an archaeologist, never thought that the drama of  World War II would affect her quiet life in Denver. An exhilarating flirtation reshapes her life and she finds herself in a rural Colorado outpost, married to a man she hardly knows. Overwhelmed by loneliness, Olivia tries to establish a new life, finding much-needed friendship and solace in two Japanese American sisters who are living at a nearby internment camp.

When Olivia unwittingly becomes an accomplice to a crime, she finally confronts her own yearnings and comes to understand what she truly believes about the nature of trust and love."

(The synopsis doesn't do the book justice.)

The writing was very light and easy to read. With a few nice descriptions here and there. It's a nice read for a warm Spring day! Here is one of my favourite quotes:

Ray Singleton is such a kind and gentle man. Him and Olivia(Livvy) don't exchange as much conversation in the book as they do in the movie. Ray does sweet things for Livvy and tries to make her at home even when she gets restless in the wild, quiet farmland surrounding them.

The size of the book is very satisfactory. Page lengthwise and general size wise. It sits comfortably in your hands and is a relatively quick read. 

The moment when Livvy accepts Ray for who he is. I will say no more...:)

The overall storyline is really nice. Livvy makes a mistake, which leaves her pregnant, and her father arranges her marriage to a farmer far out on the farmland in Colorado. She has to deal with the consequences which include her having to give up her dreams of traveling to far of lands to be an archaeologist. She has to learn to make the most of the life she has and I think that really, it's quite a good life!

The lightly detailed bed-scene that happens when Livvy is having a flashback to her flirtation with a soldier, in Chapter 25. To be frank, the whole chapter is unnecessary because you know that somehow she ended up pregnant. You don't need any details. Pages 198-199 explain their night together in light detail. The rest of this chapter is fine, they go to a bar and chat.

So basically what I am saying is this. While the rest of the book is clean, these two pages are useless and if you purchase a copy go straight to those pages and carefully tape them together using double-sided tape. Now also, I did not read this section, I saw the leading up to and then quickly skimmed over and continued reading at the end of the chapter.

I personally enjoyed this book and if you decide to pick it up, I hope you enjoy it too! If you don't want to read the book, the movie is really lovely and you could say better than the book.

xoxo

Hannah