Life's Curve Balls

 

On My Mind:

Oxford defines a curve ball as, “a pitch thrown with a strong downward spin, causing the ball to drop suddenly and veer to the side as it approaches home plate.”

Life’s Curve Balls felt like the best title for today’s post, not only because it’s softball season (Roll Tide!), but also because it is what 2022 has felt like so far; life throwing me curve balls. I like to plan in advance. So, when something unexpected happens, I struggle to adapt.  Often, I become stressed, overwhelmed, and fail to remember that God is in control. He is not shocked by life’s surprises and can use every situation for His glory. Some unexpected circumstances may even be blessings in disguise; opportunities to grow closer to God. I pray God will help me view future difficult situations through His lens and trust Him more.

To calm my frantic spiral, God uses His Word, Christian music, and other believers to remind me of His truth and quiet my soul. How do you react to unforeseen changes? Are you able to go with the flow, left reeling, or somewhere in between?

On My Shelf:

I will share ratings and reviews for my January and February reads in a future post but want to use this section to highlight what I am currently reading and my March TBR.

Current Reads-

Although most of my book list consists of historical fiction, I have been drawn more to romantic comedies recently. Because life has been so heavy, I prefer lighter reads at the moment. Sometimes I can read multiple books at one time quickly. But that has not been the case this year. 2022 has been a slow start for me. The two books I am reading now are books I began in February.

Better Than the Movies by Lynn Painter. This YA book was suggested to me by my sister who found it at our local library. This story has been fun and I love the couple’s connection. Content Warning: There is strong language throughout which really took away from the storyline to me. The book would be so much better without the garbage language. 282 pages (79%) in. Good Reads

The Bridge by Jill Cox. So far, I have enjoyed this sweet rom-com. I am only 62 pages (21%) in. Good Reads

Wish Upon A Streaming Star by Krissi Dallas. This story is available exclusively on Kindle Vella; a platform I was new to until I discovered this author (Thank you Jill Cox for sharing!) Krissi has become one of my new favorite authors and Wish Upon A Streaming Star is my favorite story I have read by her so far. (I also recommend checking out her teen, spy thriller Icarus Flight School. The complete story is available now on Kindle Vella.) Amazon

Wish Upon A Streaming Star is a clean YA rom-com that follows the story of Daisy and Caz. These two are adorably perfect together, even if they have not realized this truth themselves yet. The story has been filled with twists and turns, laugh-out-loud moments, and more than a few swoon-worthy scenes. All the characters, including the supporting cast, are a joy to read about. I am currently caught up on all available episodes (29) and, although I do not want the story to be over, I cannot wait to see how it ends!

To Be Read (TBR)-

At the beginning of March, I created the following TBR wish list for the month. When I made the list, I was hopeful I would complete most of the titles listed. But because I have not had as much dedicated reading time, I may not make as much progress as I hoped. (Follow the links to learn more about each book.)

Review Books-

Before the Fortress Falls by A. L. Sowards Good Reads

The Wonderland Trials by Sara Ella Good Reads

Book Club-

A Heart Adrift by Laura Frantz Good Reads

Kindle Unlimited-

Windchaser by Krissi Dallas Good Reads

TBR Kindle Shelf-

                The Promised Prince by Kortney Keisel Good Reads

TBR Bookshelf-

                Colors of Truth by Tamera Alexander Good Reads

Library Book-

                The Lady in Residence by Allison Pittman Good Reads

Series-

Mystery of the Flying Express Hardy Boys Book #20: by Franklin W. Dixon Good Reads

Keeper of the Lost Cities Book #1 by Shannon Messenger (Rereading the series in preparation for the release of Book 9 releasing this November.) Good Reads

Hallmark/Love Inspired-Alternate

                The Secret Ingredient by Nancy Naigle Good Reads

                Blessings by Lois Richer Good Reads

Whew! That is a lot. Reading back over it, I am not sure what I was thinking when I made the list. Whatever I do not finish this month, I plan to roll over to April. What books do you hope to read in March?

Writing Updates-

I am currently working on the first draft of a teen/YA story. The working title is The Messengers and it is the first of a Christian mystery series. Just like my reading, writing has been slow going. But a little progress is better than none! My goal is to have the first draft completed by the end of May 2022 with an independent release date in May of 2023. Current word count is at 3,832! You can read the synopsis below.

Synopsis:

 “A threefold cord is not quickly broken.” Ecclesiastes 4:12 KJV

Fifteen-year-old triplets Trinity, Harmony, and Gabriel Messenger are spending their first summer at Camp Eden. When they are issued the challenge to use their God-given gifts for Him, they must choose whether to surrender to God's plan or their own. In order to survive a dangerous mystery, the siblings must learn to rely on new friends, each other, and God. 

Wrap Up:

Although I had hoped to share my first blog post of the year the first week of March, life had other plans. Whatever the reason, I am glad to have the opportunity to write what has been on my heart and mind for the past few weeks; even if it is halfway through the month. I am really excited for the list of ideas I have for future posts and hope to share more consistently. Thanks for reading along.

~Virginia

It Came Upon A Midnight Clear Cover Reveal!

COVER REVEAL ~ I am excited to be part of the cover reveal team for @anna_augustine_author 's short story, "It Came Upon A Midnight Clear", releasing in ebook format only July 6th, 2021. 

This is a companion story to Anna's Princes of Allura novellas in "When You Found Me". The novella collection is nearing the top of my TBR and I couldn't be more excited. I have read nothing but great reviews and I can't wait to read this collection for myself before diving into the new release as well.

I wasn't sure how this cover would compare to the amazing cover of the first book, but it is equally as beautiful! 😍

BLURB

It’s Christmas time, and the royal family of Allura is bustling about preparing for the holiday. But when Sage’s brother, Lucius, and his wife fail to arrive when they said they would, it’s up to Nicholas, Collins, and Benjamin to find the missing brother in time for Christmas Day.

Make sure to check out "When You Found Me" and "It Came Upon A Midnight Clear" available to pre-order on Amazon  now!

#theprincesofallura #princesofallura #itcameuponamidnightclear #theheirsofallura #allurashortstory #shortstory #coverreveal

No Journey Too Far ~ McAlister Family Book Two Review

 

“The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, Lord, hast not forsaken them that seek thee.” Psalm 9:9-10 KJV

I love how Carrie Turansky’s books follow a theme verse. This Bible passage rang true from the first page of No Journey Too Far, the second book in the McAlister Family series. Even though this story takes place ten years after the first, it felt like no time had passed as the story picks up where the first left off. It was a treat to read what events had taken place in the years that had passed for the characters, but I was eager to learn how Garth’s and Grace’s stories would unfold.

What I found most interesting was the development of both characters. In the first book, nothing more is known of Grace’s life after she was separated from her siblings. In the second story, readers get to know Grace as a young woman and the trials that have shaped her into the graceful, strong person she has become. She bravely seeks out the truth of her past and ventures into unfamiliar territory in order to discover where, and to whom, she belongs. Her naivety sets the stage for some humorous scenes.

The introduction of Emma’s character added more depth to Garth’s story. I really enjoyed learning more about their relationship and their sweet love story. The mystery added more intensity to an already incredible tale.

As in the first book, what I liked best about this novel was the message of God’s faithfulness and love reflected on each page. Carrie is an amazing author that I highly recommend. I look forward to reading more of her stories. 5/5

I received an advanced reading copy of this story from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

No Ocean Too Wide ~ McAlister Family Book One Review

When I was approved to read an Advanced Reader’s Copy of Carrie Turansky’s upcoming release, No Journey Too Far, I did not realize it was the second book in the McAlister Family series. The first book, No Ocean Too Wide, has been on my TBR list since I first read about the book. I found an affordable, used paperback copy on Ebay and was soon swept away by the McAlister’s story. 

I loved getting to meet each of the McAlisters and the cherished friends they made along their journey. The book had an easy flow and held my interest from the first page. My favorite part was how the author shared Christ’s love through the pages of this heartwarming tale! 

Carrie Turansky is a first-time author for me. I am already making a list of her books I want to add to my collection! I am so glad I have the second book in this series. I will be starting it immediately!  5/5

“[Katie] glanced at the Bible in Jenny’s hand, her heart warming. If she found Jesus in the pages of that Bible, she would have a friend who would never leave her side…and that is what she needed most for the journey ahead.” (pg. 95)

This quotation illustrates a few of the qualities that I admire most about Katie. She boldly lives out her faith as and chooses to be compassionate to even difficult people. She was my favorite character. 

“But what if we get lost or there’s a big storm?”-Anna May

“I’m sure we have a very experienced captain and crew, and even more important, Jesus promises to be with us wherever we go. He tells us to have faith and not be afraid. He can calm any storm.”-Laura McAlister (pg. 136)

I love how Laura shares the truth of the Saviour and Master of the Sea with little orphan Anna May.

“Six-year-old Anna May had big brown eyes and a sweet set of dimples that would surely melt some man’s heart when she was older.” (pg. 150)

This was the cutest description.

“I know some of you may feel frightened by what has happened tonight. That is natural, and there is no need to be ashamed of those feelings. We all go through times when we feel afraid. And when we do, we can ask the Lord for faith to trust Him and help us overcome those fears.

“He loves each one of you, and He has promised to send His angels to watch over you. His Spirit is also with us to comfort us and remind us of the wonderful promises in God’s Word.”-Henry Dowd (pg. 171)

“Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” Isaiah 41:10 KJV

This scene centers around the key theme and verse for the story; one of my favorite verses!

McKinnie Mail Order Brides-Reviews for Books 2-6

 

Love in the Rockies - I enjoyed Josephine's story even more than Abigail's. I look forward to continuing the sisters' journey in the next book in the series. 4.8/5

Love on the Plains - I am not sure who I liked less, Dinah or Colt/Cole. Dinah is spoiled and entitled. Colt (or Cole as he is mistakenly referred to a couple of times) is demanding and rude. They are both horrible people who seem to dramatically change overnight after they survive a traumatic event together. I did appreciate the metamorphosis the characters went through, although it was too quick to be believable. I LOVED the children, Anna, James, and little Emma. I give this loose re-telling of Beauty and the Beast a 2.8/5 overall. This was my least favorite of the series so far.

Love on the Ranch - This was one of the better books in the series. I was a fan of Elizabeth right away and enjoyed her spirit as she fought against the many challenges she faced to survive her harsh journey to happiness. There were a few times the characters' stubbornness drove me crazy, but I was happy with the ending and look forward to reading Francine's story. 4.4/5

Love on the Sound - Although many of the characters stubborn, cluelessness annoyed me, I still enjoyed Francine's adventure to find love and her discovery of a dream even she was unaware she had. Now Thomas I could NOT stand! I had hoped his character would be better redeemed than the ending he received. Francine, Adam, Clara, and Esther were my favorite characters. 3.7/5. I look forward to learning more about Hannah in the next book. 

Love on the Border - When I was approved to read the ARC of Love on the Border, I was unaware it was the sixth book in a series. Never having read any other book by Ciara Knight, I found the first two of this series on Kindle Unlimited. The McKinnie sisters’ stories quickly had me hooked and I read the first five books over two weeks. The series was no longer available on Kindle Unlimited after completing the first two, so I purchased books 3-5. I would have bought Love on the Border as well if I had not had the advanced reader’s copy.

 The latest McKinnie Mail Order Bride release tells Hannah's story. Before this book, readers do not learn much about this sister, so I enjoyed getting to know more about Hannah. I really like the rest of the cast of characters as well. Roger gave me the creeps at first, but it was nice to see his character growth. Eli was a great leading man to root for. He is not perfect but works to overcome his personal demons. Hannah was easy to like as well. Although I admired the strength of her faith, I did not fully agree with the portrayal of faith. This was my third favorite of the series so far. I look forward to reading Cora’s story most! Love on the Border is a well-written and fast-paced story for those who enjoy this and other mail order bride series. I received a free copy of this story from Netgalley in exchange of an honest review. 3.8/5 overall.

I love the beautiful covers for this series! I predict Cora's story will be my favorite (she deserves the best for her selfless sacrifice). I would love to read of reunion between the sisters at series end. My favorite in order are:

A Whole New World ~ Danger on the Loch Book Review

 

“Paisley's DNA test links her to the father she doesn't remember and a heritage and name not her own.”

Danger on the Loch is one of the best books I have ever read. Not just this year. Ever. I don’t write that statement often. To say I loved everything about this story feels like an understatement. Excellent writing combined with well-crafted characters for an edge-of-your seat adventure.

I like how the relationships developed naturally while the characters pursued their individual goals. The romance was well-balanced with mystery and humor. The Pressley-Coombes family is one anyone would want to be friends with. Readers get to become just that as they get to know the characters better throughout the story. I loved Jamie’s (James’) chivalry, Paisley’s strength, and Granny’s spunk. I also admire Paisley’s conviction to stay true to herself and hold fast to her morals and beliefs when faced with displeasing a father she wants so much to impress. Torquil and Mrs. Grant were two more of my favorite characters.

There were a few scenes late in the story that did not flow as well as the rest of the story, but the sweet ending more than made up for it. This was the first I have read by Paige Edwards. Thirty percent into Danger on the Loch I knew I had to read more by this talented author. I purchased the first two Pressley-Coombes books and pre-ordered a physical copy of Danger on the Loch. I highly recommend this author to anyone who enjoys sweet, clean romantic suspense. 5/5

I received a free ARC of this story from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.

“I don’t need fancy. I just need you,” ~ Book Review for Love on the Prarie

~

 “Abigail McKinnie and her six sisters huddled together for the last time. Ashes and debris littered the floor of their half-demolished home, the smell of burned wood, gunpowder, and Yankee stench still haunting the air. Everything was gone. Not just their possessions, but their dreams, too.”

The opening scene of this story immediately connected me with the characters, making me want to learn more about what tragedies they had lived through and where their journeys would take them. The bond of sisters is like no other and the author established that bond beautifully from the beginning. Being the oldest of four siblings, it was easy for me to relate to Abigail and understand the love and sense of responsibility that drove her to the prairies to provide a safe home for her sisters.

“A short ceremony, with no words and no tears, but full of sadness.”

Owen’s introduction alludes to his own difficult past. Both leading characters, though flawed, are likable and relatable.  The remainder of the story follows Abigail and Owen as they battle the dangers of prairie life and the feelings they are developing for each other.

“Abigail stumbled down the hill, both her feet flaming lumps of pain.”

Although I laughed at this, I sympathized with her pain.

This book started out as a fast 5/5. However, the story became a little rushed towards the middle and end. The hurried pace affected the quality of writing, dropping my final rating to a 4.4 overall.

I did like how the story ended. The second book in the series is next on my list.

“When their lips parted, she felt she’d given part of herself to him forever. Hope emerged through the ashes of sorrow and for the first time, she believed in happiness.”

“I don’t need fancy. I just need you,”

The sky is falling!~A book review

 

I am big fan of Shannon Messenger's Keeper of the Lost Cities series, so I was excited to give her Sky Fall trilogy a try. I liked the plot idea, but the delivery fell short. Although the book was not poorly written, the characters' stubbornness and lack of growth annoyed me. As did numerous references of Vane-like objects (ie:Vane-pancake, Vane-splat). The only character I really liked was Hannah. She was a minor character, but the most interesting. 

Aside from a few lightly humorous moments that made me laugh, I felt disconnected from the story. Usually, I am rooting for a main couple by the end of a story. Not with this book. The romance felt forced, unnatural, and superficial.  There was also too much profanity and suggestive thoughts/actions sprinkled throughout. 

Let the Sky Fall kept my attention enough to complete the story, but I do not plan on reading it again. I may check out the next two books to see how the trilogy concludes, but they are not at the top of my list of things I want to read. 3.8/5

Welcome to Carnton ~ With This Pledge

 

“When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches.” Psalm 63:6 KJV

“Know therefore that the Lord thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations;” Deuteronomy 7:9 KJV

The best way to start a novel is with scripture. The above texts from the Bible set the stage for a beautiful story to follow. I have never been so fully emersed in a story as I was this one. The author transported me back in time to Franklin, TN 1864. I became part of the Carnton household as they witnessed the devastation of war, the horrific aftermath of battle, and the difficult journey to healing and change. Experiencing this book was like living history. I enjoyed getting to know the courageous people written about. I would love to visit this historic location in the future.

My favorite part of With This Pledge was the messages of faith throughout. I was encouraged to deepen my relationship with God as I read of the characters growing closer to Him, through the truth of His Word amid their trials.

I have had many titles by Tamera Alexander on my TBR list and bookshelf for a while but have not had the opportunity to read any of her books until now. I admire how the author uses her gift to share the Saviour of the world with others and give Him glory. Since February was a slow reading month for me, With This Pledge was the only story I finished. I am glad this is the book that I chose to read. 5/5.

Before I finished reading my Kindle Unlimited copy of the story, I purchased a physical copy of the book along with the novella Christmas at Carnton. I look forward to adding more of the author’s stories to my collection.

Here are a few of my favorite quotes:

“She reached for strength beyond her own.”

“He had strong facial features and was a handsome man in a rough, rugged sense. All except for his gray eyes, which had revealed a kindness that brooked no argument, and that thoroughly convinced the onlooker of his honor at first glance.”

“Grief coupled with regret had a way of bending even the strongest man’s knees,”

“She didn’t doubt that God was watching. That he was present. That he saw every man and even knew each of their names. She’d walked with the Almighty long enough that he’d proven his presence to her time and again.”

“He wrapped her in a hug as familiar as home and as comforting as a feather bed come winter,”

“’Captain Jones, how may I make things more comfortable for you, sir?” Sister Catherine Margaret bent over him. “Well, Sister . . .” He grimaced. “Unless you have a full flask hidden somewhere in that habit of yours, I’m guessing not much.” That earned him a grin, as he’d thought it would. She made a tsking sound. “If only you hadn’t stipulated ‘full,’ Captain Jones, I might have been able to comply.” Roland managed a slight smile. Just what he needed. A nun with a sense of humor.”

“Hearing her voice, Roland opened his eyes and looked toward the door, and felt as though the sun had risen for a second time that day.”

“To know what was going on behind those eyes that could sparkle like sunshine through stained glass when she laughed. At the moment they resembled more the deep blue of a late summer night sky. Enchanting and fathomless.”

“’For those who are in Christ Jesus, the best is always yet to come. Believe that.”’

“’And yet, with all my heart,” she continued, “I trust that God knows best.” A slow, almost sad smile turned her mouth. “Even in those moments when I’m fairly certain I might know better.’”

“He caught a whiff of lilac soap and wished he could finger the brown curl teasing her temple. He told himself it wasn’t wise to allow his thoughts to take this trail, but his thoughts didn’t listen.”

“Her voice was so soft he had to watch her lips to make sure he didn’t miss anything. Not too unpleasant a task.”

“Her eyes lit with a sparkle that precious stones would envy.”

“Moonlight shone through the bare tree limbs and fell across the front lawn, painting the night, and Towny’s familiar features, in dappled silver shadows. But all she could think about was Roland.”

“’But I don’t want to go back to that life, Towny. And I don’t want to forget. Not that I want to keep reliving the images from the battlefield every time I close my eyes. But far too much blood has been spilled to simply forget and move on. Instead, we need to learn from this. We need to make changes.’”

“Lord, whatever changes are coming, let them come quickly. And let them last.”

“He lay still in the darkness and listened, somehow knowing he needed to memorize this moment. Needed to take it in. Needed to remember what the Confederacy sounded like in its final moments.”

“What was it about Christmas that made the heart turn home?”

“there was something fascinating about watching a force of nature that, when contained, could help keep a man alive, but if unleashed would destroy with merciless ferocity.”

“She grabbed her Bible from the bedside table and tiptoed softly down to the kitchen, mindful of the worst offenders among the creaky stairs. The kitchen was dark and still, and she walked to a window and stood for a moment in the quiet, staring out the window into the night. The sun, still tucked in slumber, wouldn’t rouse for a while yet, and she watched transfixed as grayish tufts of clouds wafted across a thumbnail moon.”

“’If you and I have learned anything, Roland, it’s that while life itself holds no guarantees, we both trust in the One who holds our lives. So there’s nothing to fear.”

“’Do . . . you . . . love me?” She could scarcely breathe for watching his face, trying to read the contents of his heart.”

“’More than my own life,” he finally said.”

“’It’s a beautiful day. Enjoy it.” Lizzie closed the kitchen door behind her and took deep breaths, the scents of honeysuckle and summer sweetening the air. Her heart felt lighter than it had in a very long time.”

“I already love him or her with all my heart. Just as I love you.” “And always will?” she asked teasingly. He answered with a promise that didn’t need any words.”

Short and Sweet ~ Book Review

 

Rescued by the Hero was a sweet, clean read. My favorite moments in the book were when the characters relationships with God strengthened and weaved into their choices and actions in their daily lives as they chose to surrender to His will. A few things I did not like were: sections of the story where the dialogue felt forced or ingenuine, the rushed pace of the romance, the brother's whining, and the villain who was more annoying than creepy. But, as the story neared it's conclusion, I found myself liking it more. Although I probably would not read this book again, I never became bored while reading and plan to check out this next book in the series. This book can easily be completed in one setting. 4/5

The key to a girl’s heart is books and board games. ~Movie Reviews

Seeing others rate Christmas Hallmark movies over the holiday inspired me to watch more new releases this year and share my ratings.  Below I have ranked the new releases I have watched in January, from my least to most favorite. 

A Winter Getaway was a 2/5 for me. I liked the lead actors and the storyline, but the overall chemistry did not work well for me. I would not watch this movie again.

Two for the Win was a 3/5. The acting was decent, but the story did not really interest me. I am not a fan of winter sports. I would not watch again. 

Snowkissed stars two of my favorite hallmark actors. This cute movie set in beautiful Canada was fun. 4/5. I would watch again. 

Taking a Shot at Love was a 4/5. I am not a fan of hockey, but I did enjoy the ballet, the good acting, and the sweet story. I would watch again.

 

Finding 'Ohana is a Netflix Original. This film was funny adventure the whole family enjoyed. 5/5. I would watch again. 

A New Year's Resolution was my favorite of the month. This movie had a different feel than the usual Hallmark releases. I enjoyed the friendships and the chemistry between the lead couple. The bit of mystery was also a plus. The high light was a date with board games and books and this quote, 

"The key to a girl’s heart is books and board games."

5/5 I would enjoy watching this again soon.

Coming next month: