The Wishing Season- Denise Hunter has us swooning again!

The Wishing Season, by Denise Hunter, is the newest release in the Chapel Springs series- one of my favorites! Each story is based on one of the members of the close-knit McKinley family. The books can be read in any order as they stand alone but have delightful reoccurring characters. The story focused on PJ McKinley and her dreams to own a bed and breakfast and open a restaurant. I was charmed by her from the beginning when she's awakened late at night by a noise at her front door. I'll never look at a ceramic planter the same way again! Cole Evans literally enters her life out of nowhere- a handsome young man with big dreams of his own. Having been through the foster care system, Cole wants to open a home for foster kids transitioning to life on their own. The element that brings them together is a gorgeous old home that is being given away to the most worthy applicant. Competition, flirtation, drama, broken hearts, tragedy, comedy and romance ensue!

I loved the relationship between Cole Evans and PJ McKinley. They're one of my favorite couples- ever! Both driven by their dreams and to prove themselves they grow together and discover that God has even greater plans for them. I highly recommend this book. Perfect for Valentine's Day!

*I was given a copy of this book from BookLook Bloggers in exchange for my honest opinion.  No other compensation was received.*

Andi Under Pressure by Amanda Flower

Andi Under Pressure, written by Amanda Flower, is the second book in a mystery series for young readers. The story begins with Andi Boggs, a bright 12 year old, attending a science camp with her friend Colin Carter.  Strange things have been happening at the camp and Andi is determined to discover what is going on. I enjoyed the fact that Andi is a strong, likable young lady whose able to constantly rise to the occasion.  She and her older sister, Bethany, recently lost their parents in a tragic accident yet Andi manages to maintain a positive attitude in her life.  I liked the friendship she had with Colin Carter and his sweet Pug, Jackson. I also found the cast of characters intriguing with lots of secrets waiting to be answered. Ava Gomez makes a compelling "villain" with a huge chip on her shoulder! The story is intelligent, engaging, and fast paced.  I'm hoping my 12 year old falls in love with the Andi Boggs series!

*I was given a copy of this book by BookLook Bloggers in exchange for my honest opinion.  No other compensation was received.*

The Nesting Place- the imperfectly delightful book for everyone!

The Nesting Place, (It doesn't have to be Perfect to be Beautiful) by Myquillyn Smith frees the anxious decorator with these words "...Giving up on perfection isn't a failure.  It's a gift."  As I read the pages of her incredibly inspiring, funny, and illustrated (yes!  I LOVE pictures!) book filled with personal stories of embracing the "not so perfect".  My shoulders relaxed, my mind was inspired and I began to dream.  "Homes are happiest when they're being used."  Amen.

Can you tell that I took notes while I read this book?  I sure did.  All while I was on the treadmill!  I didn't want to forget a thing.  So much inspiration and helpful tips!  The Nesting Place would make the perfect gift for any home owner- and renter! (the author rents!).  It would make a lovely wedding present, teacher gift, new graduate gift, etc.  It's the blessing of loving where you are, finding the beauty in what you have and living life right. now.  

The chair on the book cover has 3 legs.  3.  Looks pretty incredible, don't you think?  Wait until you see the masking tape wall in her bedroom.  Gorgeous.  You'll be visiting Goodwill and vintage shops on a regular basis after reading this wonderful book.  If you have a truck, we can go together!

Myquillyn Smith has a gift for writing, decorating and family as well as a heart for Christ.  She's the real deal.  At the end of her book we travel with her to meet her sponsored child.  What a lovely way to complete the quest for beauty.  "Once we realize that the goal is not having a perfect home, we can create a beautiful home out of freedom instead of fear." Bless yourself and others with The Nesting Place.  It's imperfectly delightful- as life should be.

*I was given a copy of this book from BookLook Bloggers in exchange for my honest opinion.  No other compensation was received.*

First Peek at the Jamberry Black Friday Extravaganza!

I've missed you all so much!  Sorry for my absence the last few months but I'm currently pursuing an adventure as a Jamberry nail consultant.  Pretty nails that last?  Yes, please!  I don't intend to make this a business blog but I couldn't resist telling you about Jamberry's Black Friday extravaganza!

I'm aaaalllll about shopping in my jammies, sleeping in and avoiding the craziness.  

I also try to avoid going to the post office this time of year.  (Jamberry nail wraps can be mailed in an envelope.  Easy as pie.)

Jamberry wraps are non-toxic and last for 2 weeks on fingers & up to 6 weeks on toes.  Even if I'm having a bad hair day, don't have time to do my face or my jeans are a bit snug I know that my nails look fabulous!  It's a comfort to know that something is going right in my day. ;)

Did I mention the wraps are Buy 3 get 1 FREE?  Translation: 3 gifts and a goodie for YOU!

There are junior sizes for little ones as well as regular sizes for moms, teachers, babysitters, sisters, etc.  (My 11 year old does her own manicures & pedicures. See below.)

There are even festive matching/coordinating Mommy & Me wraps. (I adore the "Frozen" inspired wraps below.)

With 300+ designs there's something for everyone!

You can even host a party and get them for FREE.  Free is fun!  I do all the work, you just invite friends to a Facebook party OR pass the catalog and samples around at work/school/family. 

Just a few of the reasons I love Jamberry...

Message me (toosillysisters@cox.net) if you'd like to try a sample or see a catalog.  The holidays are the perfect time to feel special!  Sparkle and shine, ladies!

Diamond Dust Sparkle & Rose Gold Sparkle are my favorites...

If you don't want to host a party, I can add you to mine!

I'm crushing on the Jamberry French Manicure that lasts and lasts.  A dream come true!

Sports fans?  Just what you need to wear to the game!

GO TEAM!!

I can't reveal everything about Jamberry's Black Friday just yet.  BUT, I can tell you that there will be giveaways, games and exclusive offers!  You can sleep late, shop in your jammies, and treat yourself at the same time.  The mall has nothing but long lines, crabby people and a guaranteed headache.  I'm much more fun. :) 

Take a peek at the catalog, sign up to host a party or do a little shopping HERE anytime you like!

Growing Up Social: Raising Relational Kids in a Screen-Driven World Review and GIVEAWAY!!

My Thoughts:

Growing Up Social (Raising Relational Kids in a Screen-driven World) is a must read for today's parent.  When I saw that it was written by Gary Chapman (The 5 Love Languages) and Arlene Pellicane I knew I wanted to be in on the review.  This book addresses the problem of children and adults spending excessive amounts of time in front of the computer, phone, TV, etc.  They are all a part of our world, but how much is too much and does it really have a negative effect?  

My family spends a lot of time using electronic devices.  Too much.  And this includes me.  In fact I may be the worst offender!  Let me be the first to tell you that I LOVE this book.  It didn't chastise me or make me feel guilty.  In fact it showed me that I'm a typical parent with good intentions that just hasn't followed through enough.  There is hope!  Thankfully Growing Up Social has lots of helpful advice and ideas to help me get my act together.  

I appreciated how the authors showcased normal families with problems I can identify with.  It was a bit like the show "Super Nanny" in that it features typical situations and ways to improve them.  They highlight something called A+ Skills which are as follows:

Show Affection

Appreciate Others

Deal with Anger

Learn to Apologize

Pay Attention

Sadly, these skills are lacking in children that spend excessive amounts of time in front of an electronic screen.  They are not something we are born with but rather skills that need to be learned and nurtured.  Role playing, reinforcement and knowledge are required from the parent to nurture these skills in a child/teen.  It's never too late!

Propellor has generously given me a copy of this book to give to one of my readers!  Please comment on this post for a chance to win!  You'll definitely want to read this book...

*I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.  No other compensation was received.*

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

 Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

Becoming Bea by Leslie Gould

My Thoughts:

Becoming Bea is the story of a young lady who loves books, journal writing and cats, but people- not so much.  At the beginning of the book she's in a quandary trying to find a job or be doomed to traveling with her domineering sister, Molly, on a trip to Montana.  She's thrilled when an opportunity arises to care for newborn triplets.  Much to her chagrin, Ben Rupp, a young man she'd attempted to court, seems to always pop up when she least expects it.  And then a surprise (Don Eicher) comes on the scene and things get interesting...

Becoming Bea begins slowly and it took me awhile to get into the story.  I found Bea a bit too prickly for my liking in the beginning, but was patient and loved her transformation through the book story.  I was intrigued by Ben Rupp from the start and found it hard to understand why Bea detested him so much.  Leslie Gould's first book in the series, Courting Cate, is one of my Amish favorites.  I enjoyed it so much that I've purchased copies to give to friends.  Becoming Bea was also enjoyable with Bea being a very unique young lady who just needs a bit of time and experience to help her grow into a lovely woman.

About the book: Can Bea and Ben Turn Rivalry Into Romance?

Beatrice Zook knows God wants her to learn patience toward others. When assisting a family overwhelmed by triplets proves surprisingly successful, her confidence in dealing with others, both young and old, grows.

One person she'll never be able to find peace with though is Ben Rupp. They've known each other forever, and Ben understands precisely how to antagonize her. What neither she nor Ben will admit is that beneath all their bickering, attraction awaits. When friends decide to try and bring the couple together, will the pair be able to find true love? Or will they damage their relationship beyond repair?

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/Dcnfl

About the author: Leslie Gould is the coauthor, with Mindy Starns Clark, of the #1 CBA bestseller The Amish Midwife, a 2012 Christy Award winner; ECPA bestseller Courting Cate, first in the Courtships of Lancaster County series; and Beyond the Blue, winner of the Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice for Best Inspirational Novel, 2006. She holds an MFA in creative writing from Portland State University and has taught fiction writing at Multnomah University as an adjunct professor. She and her familyl live in Portland, Oregon.

Leslie Gould is back with the latest book, Becoming Bea, in her Shakespeare-inspired series, The Courtships of Lancaster County. Don't miss the other books in the series, Courting Cate (retelling of The Taming of the Shrew), Adoring Addie (inspired by Romeo and Juliet), and Minding Molly (inspired by A Midsummer Night’s Dream).

Leslie is celebrating the series with a Kindle giveaway and a Facebook party on November 11th.

One grand prize winner will receive:

A Kindle Fire

One copy each of the entire The Courtships of Lancaster County series: Courting Cate, Adoring Addie, Minding Molly, and Becoming Bea.

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on 11/11. Winner will be announced at Leslie's 11/11 Becoming Bea Facebook author chat party. RSVP for a chance to connect with Leslie and Amish fiction fans, as well as for a chance to win some great prizes!



{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}

RSVP today and spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK, TWITTER or PINTEREST and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 11th!

*I was given a copy of this book from Litfuse in exchange for my honest opinion.  No other compensation was received.*

The Promise (by Beth Wiseman) takes your breath away!

My Thoughts:

The Promise begins with exactly that- a promise.  Saving a life is Mallory Hammond's obsession due to the fact that she couldn't save her cousin's life years ago.  In order to move on with her other dreams she simply must complete this precious task- no matter what the cost.  The opportunity presents itself, but not in the way that Mallory ever imagined.  In order to save a life she must also be able to save her own.  The Promise is a heart-pounding, pulse racing story (based on actual events) involving love, lies and make your blood run cold danger.  At times I had to put the book down just to catch my breath!  I was blown away by the dedication (and naivete) of the main character, Mallory Hammond.  At the same time I was disgusted and saddened to read of the horrible way human beings can treat one another when it's "accepted" and even embraced in another culture.  The Promise is eye-opening and(Made my think of the movie Not Without my Daughter with Sally Field) terrifying, yet kindness and love are ever present.  An incredible book and one that you won't soon forget!

About the book: 

Mallory's search for happiness leads her to a faraway place. There she finds heartache, betrayal---and danger.

Mallory Hammond is determined that no one will stand in the way of her goal---to save a life. She had that chance years ago, and she failed to take it, leaving her adrift and in search of the real meaning of her life. Finally, she meets a man online from a volatile corner of the world who offers her the chance to find that purpose. But she will have to leave everyone she loves behind in order to take it.

Tate Webber has loved Mallory for many years. He understands that Mallory will never be happy with him until her deepest heart's desire is satisfied. When Mallory decides to travel across the world to fulfill her dreams, Tate begs her not to go but tries to give her the space she needs. Mallory embarks on her dangerous journey only to discover how swiftly and easily promises can be broken. And Mallory can only pray that she will make it out alive.

Inspired by actual events, The Promise is a riveting love story that asks the question: how far will we go for love?

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/CP8sr 

About the author: 

Beth Wiseman is the best-selling author of the Daughters of the Promise series and the Land of Canaan series. Having sold over 1.3 million books, her novels have held spots on multiple Bestseller lists. She was the recipient of the prestigious Carol Award in 2011 and 2013. In 2013 she took home the coveted Holt Medallion. Her first book in the Land of Canaan series--Seek Me With All Your Heart--was selected as the 2011 Women of Faith Book of the Year. Beth lives in Texas with her family.

Find Beth online: website, Facebook, Twitter

In a daring new novel, Beth Wiseman jumps way outside the box. The Promise will take readers far away from Amish country and small Texas towns to a dangerous place on the other side of the world. Inspired by actual events, this is the book Beth has been working toward for a long time.








Curious? Click here to read the reviews, and be sure to enter Beth's Kindle HDX giveaway!



One grand prize winner will receive:



• A Kindle Fire HDX


• The Promise by Beth Wiseman


Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 9th. Winner will be announced November 10th here.






*I was given this book by Litfuse in exchange for my honest opinion.  No other compensation was received.*