Book Review: A Matter of Heart

A Matter of Heart
Tracie Peterson
Bethany House Publishers


When the man she thought she would marry ends up marrying another woman, Jessica Atherton has a wake-up call. Tired of being considered self-centered and spoiled, she decides to change her actions so that others know her real character. As her hometown strives to become an official town, this change brings two very different men into her life. Will Jessica’s goal to become genuine help her realize where her heart truly belongs?


Tracie Peterson’s latest book is a tender story, and while romance is definitely a theme, so is identity. Jessica’s struggle with her own identity and how others perceive her is something that is relatable to readers, and Peterson deals with this theme while keeping the trilogy moving. The story is a little slower than the others, but is still a worthwhile addition to the trilogy. It was nice to see what happens to characters that we were first introduced to in a completely different series.

I recieved a free copy of this book from the publishers in exchange for an honest review.

Book Review: With Every Breath

With Every Breath
Elizabeth Camden
Bethany House Publishers


Ever since they were young, Trevor and Kate have lived up to their competitive spirits which often left them competing against each other. Despite going different directions as young adults, both embrace life with a passion and the same commitment that often kept them on opposite sides. Years later, Kate finds herself in the employment of none other than the boy who used to drive her crazy. Except Trevor is no longer a young boy, but a man on a mission to save lives.

Trevor is dedicated to finding a cure for tuberculosis. Desperate for help in recording his research, he hires the one person tough enough and driven enough for the job: Kate. When the situation becomes dangerous, and Trevor becomes targeted by someone out to ruin his research, the two will have to work together to protect their lives and relationship.

I loved this book. It didn't catch me immediately, but slowly took me by the hand and led me down an adventurous journey. I became hooked, and could not wait to see what mysteries Trevor was hiding. It takes a lot to surprise me, but that's exactly what Camden did. I also appreciate books that become informational, and the topic of tuberculosis was introduced and discussed in a way that made sense for a fictional novel. I was able to learn about the disease, but Camden made it flow well with the story and not seem out of place. I will be "holding my breath" in anticipation of Camden's next novel.

I recieved a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Take your 10 minutes

Is it ironic that library school has resulted in less time to read? Or at least, read what I WANT to read rather than just what I should read.

Long ago, I used to have a pretty good routine. I would make sure that I read for a minimum of at least 10 minutes before going to bed. However, those measly 10 minutes were lost as the craziness of life stepped in and overtook that small amount of time.

As librarians, we often emphasize the importance of daily reading, even just 10 minutes, especially to younger readers. But the problem is, we often forget as adults just how impactful those 10 minutes can be to us! Just as we teach our youth the importance of everyday exposure to reading, we should also be embracing that time to enrich our own lives.

So, take 10 minutes. Maybe it's in the morning with your coffee. Maybe it's alongside your children as they read. Or maybe it's that late night, cherished 10 minutes when the rest of the world has already embraced slumber.

Whatever it is, just do it.

Book Review: A Match of Wits

A Match of Wits
Jen Turano
Bethany House Publishers

Agatha Watson is used to getting into trouble. As a reporter writing under a male name, she has used her articles to unfortunately make more than a fair share of enemies. When the threats turn dangerous, she leaves the city to find a story someplace where she won't get into trouble. However, when she bumps into Zane Beckett, she discovers that her old friend might need more saving than she does. When an unfortunate accident occurs, Agatha takes it upon herself to return to his family despite that danger that is still lurking.

I loved this installment of this series! Agatha is a spunky heroine whose personality makes for a fast-paced adventure. Turano brings back some of my favorite characters from her previous book, and in doing so will have readers craving for more. I appreciate Turano's ability to write her characters in non-cookie cutter roles. Her characters have the ability to remind you of people in your own life that you know and love. They are flawed, fun, and some of my favorite literary characters. I cannot wait to see where her career goes!

I received a free copy of this book from the publishers in exchange for an honest review.

On to the Next Part

So, it happened. Earlier this month, I walked across that stage and got my diploma. Finishing my Master's Degree is a great accomplishment, but I have made the decision to further my education. I will be going back to school (!!) and getting my Certificate of Advanced Study in K-12 Librarianship. Yes, that means more late night, studying, and all together hecticness (is that a word?) but I can't wait!

Book Review: Undeniably Yours

Undeniably Yours
Becky Wade
Bethany House Publishers

After her father dies, Meg Cole returns home to his ranch to take over the business and ranch that she has inherited. Doing so requires her to work alongside Bo Porter, the man who runs the the family racehorse farm. Meg is hesitant to begin a relationship again, but will overcoming her past help her begin a new future with Bo?

I had read a book by Stephanie Wade before, and I enjoyed this book, too. I thought that her characters were well developed yet complex individuals. Despite Becky's obvious financial security and social status that can sometimes make her hard to relate to for readers, she was still down to earth and likable, and her relationship with Bo seemed natural and sweet. It was definitely worth the read, and I would recommend it to anyone who likes contemporary romances.

*I received a copy of this book for free from the publishers in exchange for an honest review.

Busy Semester=A Little Behind on Book Reviews

Into the Whirlwind
Elizabeth Camden
Bethany House Publishers

Mollie Knox is a businesswoman who has met her match in a determined lawyer, Zack Kazmarek. After years of only doing business together, the catastrophic events of the Great Chicago Fire bring them together in an entirely different way. As they try to heal and rebuild from the fire, Zack and Mollie have to learn to adapt to the changes in their new lives. Amidst tragedy, pain, and hard choices, can a relationship rise from the ashes?

I started this book but had to put it down for a little while when life got busy. However, when I restarted it, I could not put it down. With any book about the Chicago Fire, I expected the climax to happen towards the end of the story. Therefore, I was a little shocked when I realized that this isn't a story about surviving the fire itself. The real surprise in this book is that it begins with the fire, and the real story truly happens afterwards. I kind of expected that it would be boring after the fire, but it wasn't. Camden continues to develop her characters, and makes readers cringe as they realize the harshness of what it took for Chicagoans to begin to heal from such a tragedy. Any reader who loves romance and adventure will love this book, and I would highly recommend any of her other novels, too.

*I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.