Blog Archives

Free Friday - Inescapable by Nancy Mehl

1/31/2014

Inescapable
Road To Kingdom book 1
by Nancy Mehl

Lizzie Engel is used to running away. At eighteen, she left her Mennonite hometown, her family, and her faith with plans never to return. Five years later, Lizzie finds she'll have to run again. False accusations at her job, a stalker, and a string of anonymous threatening letters have left her with no other options. This time, however, her escape is back to Kingdom, her hometown.

As Lizzie becomes reacquainted with Kingdom, she realizes she may not have left her Mennonite roots and her faith as firmly in the past as she thought. She draws on the support of Noah Housler, an old friend, as she hides out and attempts to plan her next steps.

When it becomes painfully clear that the danger has followed Lizzie to Kingdom, suspicions and tensions run high, and she no longer knows who to trust. With her life and the lives of those she loves at risk, Lizzie will have to run one last time--to a Father whose love is inescapable.

ALWAYS check the price before clicking
to make sure it is still Free ($0.00)

File Size: 598 KB
Print Length: 336 pages
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (July 1, 2012)
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
ASIN: B0073UNAZC

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Nancy Mehl

Visit Nancy's Blog
HERE

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Book Review - The Baby Rescue by Margaret Daley

1/28/2014

2 Comments

Genre:
Suspense

The Baby Rescue
Love Inspired Suspense – Witness Protection
by Margaret Daley

-From the back cover-

OPERATION BABY RESCUE

To rescue and abducted infant from a baby-smuggling ring, U.S. Marshal Colton Phillips has to work with FBI agent Lisette Sutton. But their tactics couldn't be more different. Th too-pretty agent goes by the book, whereas Colton breaks rules to get the job done. Colton vows to keep his heart out of the job, but his unwanted attraction to Lisette lowers his guard. Now Lisette – and an innocent child – are in grave danger, and Colton will stop at nothing to save them.

Witness Protection: Hiding in plain sight

I have read several Love Inspired Suspense books over the last year or so and I have to say that The Baby Rescue was, by far, the best.

The story is tight and very well written. Matter of fact and not overdone. There is plenty of action and the romance is just right for this kind of story. Margaret Daley has the art of writing an intriguing and even gripping suspense story down to a 'T'. In my opinion, not only will suspense-loving women enjoy this book, but it could easily be read by a guy as well.

I really liked both main characters, the story switches back and forth between their points of view, they are both strong and gentle at the same time. I like how the romance isn't the top priority, their main goal in this case is to save the lives of the trafficked babies, followed closely by wanting the criminals stopped and put behind bars, romance just kind of slips up on them before they are quite ready for it.

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This Book earned a 4 Bark rating.

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Margaret Daley

Visit Margaret Daley's Website
HERE

One of the things I liked most about this story was the fact that the main characters desire for justice was not treated as if it were wrong or a desire for revenge. They each struggle with the evil they see daily and its seeming triumph in this world.

Forgiveness is a big theme in The Baby Rescue with the characters each working out the journey towards healing.

A must read for fans of Love Inspired Suspense, Margaret Daley, and suspense stories in general.

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Baby Rescue by Margaret Daley a 4 Bark rating.

Mass Market Paperback: 224 pages
Publisher: Love Inspired (February 4, 2014)
ISBN-10: 0373445822
ISBN-13: 978-0373445820

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Book Review - The Quilted Heart by Mona Hodgson

1/26/2014

3 Comments

Genre:
Historical

The Quilted Heart
(Omnibus)
by Mona Hodgson

-From the back cover-

Bending Toward The Sun
Dedicated to her education and to helping her father in his general store, Emilie Heinrich is convinced she doesn't have time for love. But when a childhood friend returns to St. Charles, Missouri, after serving in the Civil War, his smile and charm capture Emilie's heart. Will she be forced to choose between honoring her father and a future with a husband and family of her own?

Ripples Along The Shore
Change is brewing in St. Charles. A group of brave souls are preparing to head west on the Boone's Lick Wagon Train, led by the mysterious and handsome Garrett Cowlishaw, who served as a Confederate soldier in the war that killed Caroline's husband. Despite her dislike for him, Caroline is tempted to join the wagon train and start fresh somewhere new, but when Mr. Cowlishaw forbids her – a single woman – to travel with them, will one man's prejudice destroy Caroline's hope for the future? Or will the ripples of God's love bring the answer she needs?

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This Book earned a 4 Bark rating.

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Mona Hodgson

Visit Mona's Website
HERE

Dandelions On The Wind
They are hodge-podge family at best, and when Mrs. Brantenberg's son-in-law returns after years away fighting, they are even more so. Each person on the farm has their own struggles with forgiveness and moving forward in life.

The characters in this story are varied and interesting but I have to admit that my favorite is Gabi, she could win anyone's heart.

This story is a wonderful start to this novella collection. Sometimes the reader just liked to take a break and read a quiet, sweet, story that uplifts the heart and encourages a person.

Bending Toward The Sun
I think in many ways this is the story I identified with the most. Some of the circumstances in my own life have a loose similarity to Emilie's.

There is much in this story about honoring one's parents, both of the main characters do so in spite of the fact that they disagree.

One of the things I enjoyed most about this novella was the love of family, through multiple generations, that is woven throughout the story.

Ripples Along The Shore
This story was a little different from the others, Caroline is in a little bit different season of life than her quilting circle friends Maren and Emilie. Still young, but now a widow, Caroline lives with her sister and troubled brother-in-law.

Romance isn't a huge feature in this story and I enjoyed how that allowed the family relationships to be in the forefront. It was wonderful seeing how much Caroline loves her sister and her nieces, she will put up with a lot for their sakes.

I also liked getting to know Caroline and watching her first steps out of grief and into independence.

Overall
I started this book with the double interest of another Mona Hodgson story and learning more about the pasts of some of the characters I had read about in Prairie Song. The Quilted Heart didn't disappoint at all.

An important aspect of this book that encompasses all three novellas is the value of friendship. The quilting circle is headed by Mrs. Brantenberg, a widow and grandmother, and is populated with women and older girls over various ages and stages in life. They share their burdens and triumphs equally with each stitch. Prayer is done together, wisdom and practical advice are dispensed with Biblical words.

Full of quilt patterns, old proverbs, sage Biblical advice, and romance, this book is a must read for anyone that loves Mona Hodgson, quilts, or Historical Fiction in general!

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Quilted Heart by Mona Hodgson a 4 Bark rating.

Paperback: 368 pages
Publisher: WaterBrook Press (January 21, 2014)
ISBN-10: 0307731146
ISBN-13: 978-0307731142

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Winner!

1/24/2014

0 Comments

And the winner of the Quilted Heart inspired Earrings by MontanaMade by Jasmine is...

Rhonda Lovell
Entry #3

Congratulations Rhonda Lovell! Thank you for taking the time to visit my blog!

Please email me your mailing address at telltalebookreviews(at)gmail(dot)com,
just replace the (at) with an @ and the (dot) with a . and I will get your earrings out to you.

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Litfuse Blog Tour - The Headmistress Of Rosemere by Sarah E. Ladd - Book Review & Giveaway Link

1/21/2014

2 Comments

The Headmistress Of Rosemere
Whispers On The Moors book 2
by Sarah E. Ladd

About the book:

Patience Creighton has dedicated herself to the Rosemere School for Young Ladies. But the return of the enigmatic master of the estate puts everything she loves at risk.

Bright, sensible Patience knows what is expected of her. At twenty-five, her opportunity for a family of her own has passed, so she invests herself in teaching at her father's school for girls. When her father dies suddenly and her brother moves away to London, she is determined to make the school successful.

Confirmed bachelor William Sterling also knows what is expected of him, but mistake after mistake has left him teetering on ruin's edge. As master of Eastmore Hall he owns a great deal of property --- including the land where Rosemere School is located --- but possesses little money to manage its upkeep. When debtors start calling, he is desperate to find a new source of income, even if it means sacrificing Rosemere.

When a fire threatens the school grounds, William must decide to what lengths he is willing to go to protect his birthright. And when Patience's brother returns with a new wife to take over management of the school, Patience suddenly finds herself unsure of her calling. After a surprising truth about William's past is brought to light, both William and Patience will have to seek God's plans for their lives-and their hearts.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/sgVC4

Sarah E. Ladd

About the author:

Sarah E. Ladd has more than ten years of marketing experience. She is a graduate of Ball State University and holds degrees in public relations and marketing. The Heiress of Winterwood was the recipient of the 2011 Genesis Award for historical romance. Sarah lives in Indiana with her amazing husband, sweet daughter, and spunky Golden Retriever.

Learn more about Sarah at http://sarahladd.com

Litfuse Tour Page

http://litfusegroup.com/author/sladd

My Review

An excellent Regency Era novel from Sarah Ladd!

The first several chapters were slow going for me, likely because I wasn't feeling well, but part way into the story it just seemed to take off and grabbed my interest.

One of the interesting things about The Headmistress Of Rosemere is that is almost a hybrid book, there are strong elements of the novels of the era in which the story is set, 1816, and yet it is very obvious that this is a modern novel. Really, this book has taken the better parts of two worlds and combined them in to one good story.

Sarah E. Ladd is excellent with getting her readers totally involved in the characters and their emotions. One scene in the story has a brother slighting his sister, I was so mad I wanted to give him what-for over his words and actions! I felt Patience's pain at not being able to break through her mother's depression. I felt William's regret and desire make things right. I really like a story that gets me so engrossed in the characters that my emotions are totally engaged and when real life intrudes on my reading it feels like a shock.

The characters are ones that I was able to root for, the good ones that is, I really hoped for a happy ending for all involved. I will have to say that the book surprised me a few times. characters didn't always behave like I expected at all and I found that to be a very welcome change. A person can only read so many stories where the characters are stereotypical, wicked step-mother and the like, before you get bored. In The Headmistress Of Rosemere they were not always that way so it made the story seem fresh and new.

Despite a bit of a slow start this book is very good and for Regency Era fans is well worth the time spent reading. I haven't read the first book in the series yet, but after reading this one I will be looking for it, and anticipating the next installment in the series.

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Headmistress Of Rosemere by Sarah E. Ladd a 4 Bark rating.

Don't miss Sarah Ladd's latest Regency novel, The Headmistress of Rosemere. She is celebrating the release of book two in her Whispers on the Moors series with a fun "School" Your Desk Kindle Fire Giveaway and an Author Chat Facebook Party!

Between January 17–28, visit Sarah Ladd's Facebook Page to enter to win a new giveaway each day and be entered to win a Kindle Fire grand prize. Winners will be announced at the Facebook Author Chat party on January 28th! (Don't have a Facebook account? Enter here.)

RSVP today for Sarah's The Headmistress of Rosemere Author Chat Party on Facebook. During the party Sarah will be hosting a book chat, testing your Regency trivia skills, announcing the winner of the "School" Your Desk Giveaway, and giving away books, gift certificates, and more. Oh, and she'll also be giving partygoers an exclusive look at the next book in the Whispers on the Moors series!

So grab your copy of The Headmistress of Rosemere and hope to see you on the evening of January 28th! (If you haven’t read the book, don’t let that stop you from coming!)

DON’T MISS A MOMENT OF THE FUN; RSVP TODAY. HOPE TO SEE YOU ON THE 28th!

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The Quilted Heart 3-Day Countdown January 21st RELEASE DAY - Interview + Announcement + Giveaways

1/21/2014

24 Comments

UPDATE:
The NEW Winner is...
KELLY BALLENGER
Entry #43

In anticipation of the release of The Quilted Heart we have featured a different post each day from January 19-21st with all things related to the book, we dug up some neat things to share with you. Go back, check them out, and don't forget to read today's great post - there's a lot in it.

Please note that there are 2 different giveaways for you to enter.
Please carefully read the instructions for each giveaway.
Giveaways and information are at the bottom of this post.

Countdown Day 3 is also Release Day!
An interview with Mona about The Quilted Heart

#1. What was the inspiration for this book?
Intersections inspired the concept of The Quilted Heart novellas. First, a visit to Historic Saint Charles, Missouri, in 1999 and the desire to write a story set there. Then, the idea to use quilting and a quilted heart as a metaphor for a transformed heart in a series of talks for Christian Women's Retreats. Next, a heightened awareness of the affects of Retinitis Pigmentosa on my extended family and a desire to tell the story of a women struggling with blindness. When I had an opportunity to write a grouping of novellas as a prequel to Prairie Song, Book 1 in Hearts Seeking Home, a wagon train series, all of the above factors intersected to create The Quilted Heart omnibus--Dandelions on the Wind, Bending Toward the Sun, and Ripples Along the Shore.

#2. How long did it take to finish writing each novella?
I had a series of tight book deadlines with about four to six weeks to write each story in The Quilted Heart.

#3. Do you have favorite character(s) in any or each of the stories?
If you've read The Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek Series, you know I'm partial to Miss Hattie and to Boney Hughes. so much so that I couldn't say goodbye to them. Maren, the lead in Dandelions on the Wind, is especially dear to me because the loss of her eyesight gave me the opportunity to explore what life might be like for three of my aunts who live with Retinitis Pigmentosa. And I love my "mentor" characters, so Elsa Brantenberg, the host of the Quilting Circle, holds a special place in my heart too, a tribute to the dear senior saints in my life. As far as heros go, it's a really tough choice, but I'll say Garrett, the male lead in Ripples Along the Shore was especially intriguing as he struggles to reconcile his past and make a future. If settings count as a character, I'll add Heinrich's Dry Goods and Grocery in Bending Toward the Sun to the list. In the heart of Saint Charles, the market serves as a hub for action and interaction.

#4. What do you hope your readers will take away with them when they read this book?
Yes, our paths are hidden by darkness in places and full of twists and turns that leave us dizzy and unsure of our footing at times, but God is with us in each step of the journey. He is Light. He is faithful. We can trust Him.

#5. What made you choose some of the specific locations in these stories?
I'm an explorer. Part of the reason I love writing fiction so much is that doing so affords me the opportunity to explore different time periods, geographic locations, professions, lifestyles, and situations. I live in the high desert of Arizona. I'd written about various aspects of life in a Colorado mining camp. I was ready to visit the Midwest, the river, and a farm. Ready to return to and explore the charming, historical Main Street District in Saint Charles, Missouri.

#6. How did you name your characters?
Given the time period and location, many of my characters are immigrants. Largely a German population, and Irish. I keep a list of historically accurate character names to draw from. I also use a book called Baby Names Around the World. I used an online site that provided a good listing of German names. For Garrett, I asked my Facebook friends for ideas for a name for this character from Virginia. Garrett won! Maren came from the book. Jensen is my step-dad's last name. Elsa Brantenberg is my mother-in-law's maiden name. I do borrow names from people I know, usually a first name or last name, here or there.

#7. Tell us something funny, sad, embarrassing, whatever, that happened involving each novella or the book as a whole.
Delightful is the word I'd use for my March 2012 research trip to Saint Charles! The City of St Charles and the folks in the Historic District were so welcoming and hospitable. That's the reason I'm delighted to return to Saint Charles to participate in the Lewis & Clark Heritage Days events, May 17&18, 2014. Sign up for my newsletter and blog at www.monahodgson.com to receive updates on those events and upcoming giveaways and contests.

Bonus. Share with us a thought, Bible verse, whatever is on your mind/heart.

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them,
for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV

Courageous! My word for the year 2014.

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them....
Of whom? Disease? Transitions? Conflict? Loss? Anything. Why not?

...for the Lord your God goes with you....
When? Where?

He will never leave you nor forsake you.
All the time. Anywhere.

I talked more about this in a blog post at http://monahodgson.com/2014/01/2014-word-courageous

Announcement

FACEBOOK BOOK RELEASE PARTY!

Please save the date for a Book Release Party for THE QUILTED HEART on Facebook, FRIDAY, January 24th! You'll find the party in the Notes Section on her "Mona Hodgson Author Page" from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM (Mountain Time). Mona will answer questions, give away prizes and share photos and behind-the-scenes stories about the three novellas included in The Quilted Heart omnibus, set in Saint Charles, Missouri.

The Quilted Heart

Dandelions On The Wind
When Maren Jensen took a job at Elsa Brantenberg's St. Charles, Missouri, farm, she never expected to call the place her home. As she grows to love Mrs. Brantenberg and her granddaughter, Gabi, Maren is transformed from a lonely mail-order bride-without-a-groom to a beloved member of the Brantenberg household. But when Gabi's father, Rutherford “Wooly” Wainwright, returns to the farm unexpectedly, everything changes for Maren, and she feels compelled to find another job. Are her choices in obedience to God, or is she running from His plan?

Bending Toward The Sun
Dedicated to her education and to helping her father in his general store, Emilie Heinrich is convinced she doesn't have time for love. But when a childhood friend returns to St. Charles, Missouri, after serving in the Civil War, his smile and charm capture Emilie's heart. Will she be forced to choose between honoring her father and a future with a husband and family of her own?

Ripples Along The Shore
Change is brewing in St. Charles. A group of brave souls are preparing to head west on the Boone's Lick Wagon Train, led by the mysterious and handsome Garrett Cowlishaw, who served as a Confederate soldier in the war that killed Caroline's husband. Despite her dislike for him, Caroline is tempted to join the wagon train and start fresh somewhere new, but when Mr. Cowlishaw forbids her – a single woman – to travel with them, will one man's prejudice destroy Caroline's hope for the future? Or will the ripples of God's love bring the answer she needs?

Mona Hodgson

Connect with Mona:
www.monahodgson.com/blog
https://www.facebook.com/Author.Mona?ref=hl
http://www.pinterest.com/monahodgson/
https://twitter.com/MonaHodgson

Bio
Mona Hodgson is the author of nearly 40 books, historical novels for adults and children’s books, including her popular Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek Series, The Quilted Heart novellas, and Prairie Song, Book 1 in her Hearts Seeking Home Series. Her children’s books include bestseller, Bedtime in the Southwest, six desert and princess Zonderkidz I Can Read books, Real Girls of the Bible: A 31-Day Devotional, and her six I Wonder books.

Mona’s writing credits also include several hundred articles, poems and short stories, which have appeared in 50 different publications. Mona is a speaker for women’s groups, Christian women’s retreats, book clubs and reading groups, schools, and conferences for writers and librarians.

The Giveaways!

BLOG TOUR DRAWING

Leave a comment here on this blog post, then comment on Mona Hodgson Author Page
before Friday, January 31st to enter the BLOG TOUR DRAWING for one of three signed
copies of The Quilted Heart. Tell Mona which blog you visited and commented on!
You can enter once for each Participating Blog (List of blogs found HERE)

These Bead Earrings made by MontanaMade by Jasmine
are inspired by the cover of The Quilted Heart

Freshwater Pearl & Swarovski Crystal Sterling Silver Earrings

To enter the giveaway please use the Rafflecopter below.
Before entering please click the Terms and Conditions button at the
bottom of the Rafflecopter and read them.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Terms & Conditions

PLEASE sign up to receive our emails OR follow us on our Facebook fan page, buttons are on the right.
I'd like to remind everyone entering the giveaway that
I will NOT be contacting the winner, it is up to the winner to contact me.
If you win please send your mailing address/email address to me at telltalebookreviews(at)gmail(dot)com, just replace the (at) with an @ and the (dot) with a . and I will get the info to the correct person.

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The Quilted Heart 3-Day Countdown January 20th

1/20/2014

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In anticipation of the upcoming release of The Quilted Heart we will feature a different post each day from January 19-21st with all things related to the book, you never know what neat things we will dig up to share with you.

Countdown Day 2
Recipes

Each woman in The Quilted Heart has their own unique heritage, family, and story. I have carefully chosen the recipes to be what each woman MIGHT have made or eaten. Hopefully these recipes will inspire you to try a little something and take you deeper the worlds of Maren, Emilie, and Caroline.

In Dandelions On The Wind Maren is a sweet young Danish woman living on a farm with German family. The farm happens to feature an apple orchard, Mrs. Brantenberg might have taught Maren a similar recipe to take advantage of that bounty.

Apfelkuchen (Apple Cake)

Recipe makes 1 9x13-inch cake

Ingredients

2 1/4 cups sifted all-purpose flour
1 1/8 cups warm milk
1/4 cup white sugar
1 (.25 ounce) package active dry yeast
6 tablespoons butter, softened
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 pinch salt
3 large apples - peeled, cored, and sliced

1 cup white sugar
3/4 cup sifted all-purpose flour
2 ounces candied lemon peel, chopped (optional)
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 pinch salt
1/2 cup butter

Directions

Grease the bottom and sides of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Beat 2 1/4 cup flour, milk, 1/4 cup sugar, yeast, 6 tablespoons butter, vanilla extract, and 1 pinch salt in a large bowl with an electric mixer on high until dough is smooth, about 5 minutes; spread into baking dish and press dough up the sides. Press apple slices into dough.
Mix 1 cup sugar, 3/4 cup flour, candied lemon peel, cinnamon, nutmeg, and 1 pinch salt in a bowl. Cut in 1/2 cup butter with a knife or pastry blender until mixture resembles coarse crumbs; sprinkle over apples. Allow dough to rise for 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
Bake in preheated oven until golden brown, about 35 minutes.

In Bending Toward The Sun Emilie is a pretty young German girl living with her father, the storekeeper. The young man she falls in love with is of Irish descent and I can imagine Emilie deciding to try her hand at some Irish dishes while dreaming of a happily-ever-after.

Colcannon

Recipe makes 4 to 6 servings

Ingredients

1 pound cabbage
1 pound potatoes
2 leeks
1 cup milk

salt and pepper to taste
1 pinch ground mace
1/2 cup butter

Directions

In a large saucepan, boil cabbage until tender; remove and chop or blend well. Set aside and keep warm. Boil potatoes until tender. Remove from heat and drain.
Chop leeks, green parts as well as white, and simmer them in just enough milk to cover, until they are soft.
Season and mash potatoes well. Stir in cooked leeks and milk. Blend in the kale or cabbage and heat until the whole is a pale green fluff. Make a well in the center and pour in the melted butter. Mix well.

In Ripples Along The Shore Caroline a lovely young widow living with her sister and brother-in-law. Missouri is known for it's Pecan orchards and with things slowly piecing back together after the war Caroline may made one of the South's most famous desserts for her family.

Pecan Pie

Recipe makes 1 - 9 inch pie

Ingredients

1 3/4 cups white sugar
1/4 cup dark corn syrup
1/4 cup butter
1 tablespoon cold water
2 teaspoons cornstarch

3 eggs
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/4 cups chopped pecans
1 (9 inch) unbaked pie shell

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, butter, water, and cornstarch. Bring to a full boil, and remove from heat.
In a large bowl, beat eggs until frothy. Gradually beat in cooked syrup mixture. Stir in salt, vanilla, and pecans. Pour into pie shell.
Bake in preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until filling is set.

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Sources:
Apfelkuchen
http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Apfelkuchen-Apple-Cake/Detail.aspx?event8=1&prop24
Colcannon
http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Colcannon/Detail.aspx?evt19=1
Pecan Pie
http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Pecan-Pie/Detail.aspx?evt19=1

The Quilted Heart

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Monday Movie - Sabrina

1/20/2014

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Sabrina
Starring
Humphrey Bogart ■ Audrey Hepburn ■ William Holden

(1954)

. . . the chauffeur's daughter who learned her stuff in Paris!

Linus and David Larrabee are the two sons of a very wealthy family. Linus is all work -- busily running the family corporate empire with no time for a wife and family. David is all play -- technically employed in the family business but never showing up for work, spending all his time entertaining, and having been married and divorced three times. Sabrina Fairchild is the young, shy, and awkward daughter of the household chauffeur, who has been infatuated with David all her life, but whom David hardly notices till she goes away to Paris for two years and returns an elegant, sophisticated, beautiful woman. Suddenly, she finds she's captured David's attention, but just as she does so, she finds herself also falling in love with Linus, and she finds that Linus is also falling in love with her.

I didn't particularly like this movie the first time I watched it. A few years later I tried it again and found that I really liked it. Now, Sabrina is one that I watch over and over again.
I don't know what exactly it is that keeps me coming back, it's not a thrill-a-minute ride nor an absorbing mystery film-noir. It's, rather, a nice little romance with some moments of humor and also some serious ones.
This is just one of those comfortable stories that is easy to watch... over...and over...and over....

As both a Humphrey Bogart fan and an Audrey Hepburn fan, this movie is just perfect. Toss in William Holden and you have a winning combination - and by winning I mean it, this movie won several awards soon after its release.

A great black-and-white this movie is a must watch for fans of classic romance movies. And there really isn't anything in this one that the kids or grandkids can't see.

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113 Minutes

Principal Cast

Humphrey Bogart...Linus Larrabee
Audrey Hepburn...Sabrina Fairchild
William Holden...David Larrabee
Walter Hampden...Oliver Larrabee
John Williams...Thomas Fairchild
Martha Hyer...Elizabeth Tyson

Filming Location(s)

Glen Cove, Long Island, New York, USA
Long Island, New York, USA
Paramount Studios - Hollywood, California, USA (studio)

Awards

1955 Oscar
Best Costume Design, Black-and-White - Edith Head

1955 Golden Globe
Best Screenplay - Billy Wilder, Samuel A. Taylor,
Ernest Lehman

1954 New York Film Critics Circle Awards
2nd Place Best Actress - Audrey Hepburn

Writer's Guild Of America, USA
WGA Award (Screen) - Billy Wilder, Samuel A. Taylor, Ernest Lehman

2002 National Film Preservation Board, USA
National Film Registry

Quotes

Thomas Fairchild: Democracy can be a wickedly unfair thing, Sabrina. Nobody poor was ever called democratic for marrying somebody rich.

Thomas Fairchild: I like to think of life as a limousine. Though we are all riding together, we must remember our places. There's a front seat and a back seat and a window in between.
Linus Larrabee: Fairchild, I never realized it before, but you're a terrible snob.
Thomas Fairchild: Yes, sir.

Baron St. Fontanel: A woman happily in love, she burns the soufflé. A woman unhappily in love, she forgets to turn on the oven.

Linus Larrabee: Look at me. Joe College with a touch of arthritis.

David Larrabee: I could have sworn I knew every pretty girl on the North Shore.
Sabrina Fairchild: I could have sworn you took in more territory than that.

Thomas Fairchild: May I ask, sir, what exactly are your intentions?
Linus Larrabee: My intentions? Unethical, reprehensible but very practical.
Thomas Fairchild: I beg your pardon?

DVD

3 DVD Collection

Blue-ray

Thanks to IMDB.com for most of the info for this movie.

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The Quilted Heart 3-Day Countdown January 19th

1/19/2014

3 Comments

Countdown Day 1
Civil War Quilts

1861 Mary Rockhold Teter's Stars and Stripes Quilt

Leading up to the American Civil War, quilts were made to raise funds to support the abolitionist movement then during the war, quilts were made to raise funds for the war effort and to give warmth and comfort to soldiers. The patterns were much like those made mid-century but the purpose was different. Quilts connected to the abolitionist movement and the Civil War were made for a cause, many

Abolition and the role of quilts
Even before 1830, abolitionists were working hard to end slavery. One way they did this was to hold grand fairs to raise both awareness and money for the abolitionist cause. Quilts were one of many craft pieces sold at these fairs. These quilts were usually fine quilts often with beautiful appliqué. Women sometimes put anti-slavery poems and sayings on the quilts they made for fairs as well as for friends and family. The goal was to show the terrible plight of the slaves.

Some abolitionists were active in the Underground Railroad helping runaway slaves get to safety. There are stories that certain quilts were used as signals to help the slaves in their flight to freedom.

1860-1865 Matilda Whisler's Whig Rose Appliqued Quilt

1860-1864 Martha Loud's Parlor Throw

For the troops
Women on both sides were very active in raising money for the war effort and making quilts and other bed coverings for soldiers.

In the North, quilts were still made for fairs but now these fairs earned money to support needs that came about because of the war. In the South lovely quilts called "gunboat" quilts were made to pay for much-needed gunboats.

It wasn't long before it was obvious that soldiers on both sides would need blankets and quilts for warmth. In the North, women either made quilts or remade quilts from bed coverings. Since the cots were narrow two bedspreads could be made into three quilts for soldiers. The United States Sanitary Commission was in charge of collecting distributing them.

1860-1865 Celia Corwin's Economy Pieced Quilt

Sources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_quilting

1861 Mary Rockhold Teter's Stars and Stripes Quilt
http://americanhistory.si.edu/collections/search/object/nmah_556337

1860-1865 Celia Corwin's Economy Pieced Quilt
http://americanhistory.si.edu/collections/search/object/nmah_645598

1863 Susannah Pullen's Civil War Quilt
http://americanhistory.si.edu/collections/search/object/nmah_556322

1860-1865 Matilda Whisler's Whig Rose Appliqued Quilt
http://americanhistory.si.edu/collections/search/object/nmah_556343

1860-1864 Martha Loud's Parlor Throw
http://americanhistory.si.edu/collections/search/object/nmah_556337

In the South, it was more difficult because cotton was grown in the south but manufactured into fabric in the north. Before long, fabric was almost impossible to obtain so women had to spin and weave before they could sew a bed covering together. Needless to say most of the quilts made for soldiers on either side were made with practical patterns and fabric and due to heavy use, very few have survived to this day.

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1863 Susannah Pullen's Civil War Quilt

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Link - “School” Your Desk Kindle Giveaway | The Headmistress of Rosemere

1/17/2014

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DON’T MISS A MOMENT OF THE FUN; RSVP TODAY. HOPE TO SEE YOU ON THE 28th!

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Free Friday - The Preacher's Bride by Jody Hedlund

1/17/2014

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The Preacher's Bride
Hearts Of Faith book 1
by Jody Hedlund

In 1650s England, a young Puritan maiden is on a mission to save the baby of her newly widowed preacher--whether her assistance is wanted or not. Always ready to help those in need, Elizabeth ignores John's protests of her aid. She's even willing to risk her lone marriage prospect to help the little family.

Yet Elizabeth's new role as nanny takes a dangerous turn when John's boldness from the pulpit makes him a target of political and religious leaders. As the preacher's enemies become desperate to silence him, they draw Elizabeth into a deadly web of deception. Finding herself in more danger than she ever bargained for, she's more determined than ever to save the child--and man--she's come to love.

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to make sure it is still Free ($0.00)

File Size: 546 KB
Print Length: 387 pages
Page Numbers Source ISBN: B0058M5L0E
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (October 1, 2010)
ASIN: B004HKIIBW

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Jody Hedlund

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HERE

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WORD Wednesday 1-15-14

1/15/2014

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21 And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way,
walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.

Isaiah 30:21 KJV

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Book Review - The Captive Maiden by Melanie Dickerson

1/14/2014

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Genre:
Historical/Fantasy

The Captive Maiden
by Melanie Dickerson

-From the back cover-

HAPPILY EVER
AFTER...OR HAPPILY
NEVERMORE?

Gisela's childhood was filled with laughter and visits from nobles such as the duke and his young son. But since her father's death, each day has been filled with nothing but servitude to her stepmother. So when Gisela meets the duke's son, Valten – the boy she has daydreamed of for years – and learns he is throwing a ball, she vows to attend, even if it's only for a taste of a life she'll never have. To her surprise, she catches Valten's eye. Though he is rough around the edges, Gisela finds Valten has completely captured her heart. But other forces are bent from keeping the two from falling further in love, putting Gisela in more danger than she ever imagined.

I absolutely loved this book! It is Melanie Dickerson's best yet!

I have been reading each book in this series with increasing excitement for each new release, not just for the gorgeous covers, but mostly for the wonderful stories that I know I will find in the pages.

These stories are recognizable for which fairytale they are, but they are told in such a fresh and new way that the reader doesn't feel, “Oh, I've heard this one before.”

This Book earned a 5 Bark rating.

Melanie Dickerson

Visit Melanie's Website
HERE

I love how the main characters aren't the stereotypical princess in distress and prince charming.
Gisela isn't exactly a princess, she IS in distress but she will also try to take care of herself. She has had things rough since her father died and she is now a strong young woman ready for love and for family, as long as she can bring her favorite horse.
Valten may be high born but he isn't always the most charming, in fact charming the ladies seems to be a skill that evades him. He has ridden in the tournaments for several years but is starting to feel ready to settle down. It will take courage and reliance on God for him to finally claim his lady.
These main characters have strengths and weaknesses that make them believable and relatable to the reader. I really enjoy how the good 'guys' make mistakes but they remain good guys, and the bad 'guys' are truly bad, just like in the old fashioned fairytales.

As someone that used to love reading classic Robin Hood and King Arthur stories The Captive Maiden's tournaments scenes were especially thrilling. Exciting and almost like you are sitting in the galleries watching. The excitement and danger is paced evenly with quiet moments and even a dash of romance.

A tale of love and treachery set in the age of chivalry The Captive Maiden is a must read for fans of knights and ladies, fairytales, historical fiction, or great books.

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Captive Maiden by Melanie Dickerson a 5 Bark rating.

Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: Zondervan (November 23, 2013)
ISBN-10: 0310724414
ISBN-13: 978-0310724414

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Winner!

1/14/2014

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And the winner of the Elusive Hope inspired Earrings by MontanaMade by Jasmine is...

Rebecca Hartman
Entry #93

Congratulations Rebecca! Thank you for taking the time to visit my blog!

Please email me your mailing address at telltalebookreviews(at)gmail(dot)com,
just replace the (at) with an @ and the (dot) with a . and I will get your earrings out to you.

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Book Blast - Deadly Secret by Sharon A. Lavy

1/14/2014

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TITLE: CrossReads Book Blast With Sharon A. Lavy

Deadly Secret
By Sharon A Lavy

About the Book

The covering on Evalena Davidson's head invites all kinds of confidences and sharing, a blessing on Denton Community Hospital's oncology ward. But people expect her to be perfect, which makes living up to the promise of her Old German Baptist uniform a challenge. Pete Neper, head of the sanitation department senses unrest among the employees but finds it a challenge to track down the cause. Danni Wagoner, another oncology nurse is implicated in a drug scam. Old German Baptist Brethren with their adherence to traditional ways do not get involved with the law. But how can Evalena turn her back on a friend? This unlikely trio put their lives and reputation at risk to uncover a deadly secret in an attempt to identify a killer before someone else dies.

LINK to KINDLE | LINK to PAPERBACK

Sharon A Lavy Writer of Inspirational Women's fiction with a touch of Suspense. Sharon A Lavy lives with her husband in SW Ohio. When not reading, writing, or sewing for her family, she enjoys traveling with her husband in the German crafted Flight Design airplane they call PaPa. Sharon is best known in the novel writing community, as that German Baptist lady. In the Old German Baptist community she's a dressmaker, a pattern maker, and the sister who writes. And in her own mind she's a wife, a mother, and a grandmother, but above all a child of God. ~~ Her greatest desire is to be a woman after God's own heart~~ Sharon has a heart for hurting women, and writes women's fiction. Because when~~it's all said and done~~It's all about relationships. Follow Sharon A Lavy Website | Facebook | Twitter

Enter to Win a $50 Amazon Gift Card! Enter below to enter a $50 amazon gift card, sponsored by author Sharon A Lavy! a Rafflecopter giveaway This book blast is hosted by Crossreads.
We would like to send out a special THANK YOU to all of the CrossReads book blast bloggers!

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