30 November 2019

“Rilla of Ingleside” by Lucy Maud Montgomery

Rilla of Ingleside
(Anne of Green Gables Series, #8)
by Lucy Maud Montgomery


Synopsis: 
Anne's children were almost grown up, except for pretty, high-spirited Rilla. No one could resist her bright hazel eyes and dazzling smile. Rilla, almost fifteen, can't think any further ahead than going to her very first dance at the Four Winds lighthouse. But undreamed-of challenges await the irrepressible Rilla when the world of Ingleside becomes endangered by a far-off war. Her brothers go off to fight, and Rilla brings home an orphaned newborn in a soup tureen. She is swept into a drama that tests her courage and leaves her changed forever. 

My Review:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ & ❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎
5+ stars & 9/10 hearts. This book is a heartbreaker. I’m pretty tough when it comes to war books, but I have to take breaks from this one because it is so raw and real. The agony is intense. I don’t know if I even tear up, but my heart is ripped to pieces. It’s beautiful. And terribly sad. And so, so real. Walter lives for me like no other character ever has. This book shows exactly what the Great War was for people. You sway back and forth, feeling the dread and terror. You know how it ends but you are broken anyhow. I can’t even describe it properly. I love this book, but it’s tough for me to read, as much as I love drama. And yet, it’s hilarious sometimes. Susan—especially when Cousin Sophia comes along—is even funnier than usual, commenting on princes and politics and powers. I don’t agree with a few little things, but I love this book so, so much.

Content: A few kisses, mild language, an instance where I’m not sure if God’s name is being used in vain or not, a mention of (lucky) stars, & a poetic but rather indecent phrase.

A Favourite Quote: “‘When we forget God
—He remembers us.’”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: “Below her [window] was a big apple-tree, a great swelling cone of rosy blossom.... Beyond Rainbow Valley there was a cloudy shore of morning with little ripples of sunrise breaking over it. The far, cold beauty of a lingering star shone above it. Why, in this world of springtime loveliness, must hearts break?”
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “Cousin Sophia was in when the mail came and when she heard the news she hove a sigh up from the depths of her stomach, Mrs. Dr. dear, and said, ‘Ah yes, and they will get Petrograd next I have no doubt.’ I said to her, ‘My knowledge of geography is not so profound as I wish it was but I have an idea that it is quite a walk from Premysl to Petrograd.’ Cousin Sophia sighed again and said, ‘The Grand Duke Nicholas is not the man I took him to be.’ ‘Do not let him know that,’ said I. ‘It might hurt his feelings and he has likely enough to worry him as it is.’” 

Purchase this book: 

The ebook is free on FeedbooksI do not recommend getting the first book off there because it's full of typos.

29 November 2019

“The Wedding” by Olivia Lynn Jarmusch

Hi! Here is the last review  and I can tell you I am hoping to be on the ARC list of The Revolution!!!


The Wedding 
(The Tales of Tarsurella, #3)
by Olivia Lynn Jarmusch

↠ find this book on Goodreads

Synopsis: 
“Vanessa Bennett is living in a real-life fairytale. Now that she’s engaged to the man of her dreams, The Palace Staff is consumed with wedding preparation. The upcoming event is no small affair, as Vanessa is bombarded with hundreds of decisions she needs to make before the wedding date arrives. Amidst the endless details concerning dresses, decorations and napkins, a greater question looms: is Vanessa truly ready to become Queen? As tensions rise within Tarsurella, the role of joining her betrothed in governing an ever-shifting nation is no small task. Will she crack under the pressure? Meanwhile, Jane Akerly is hoping to awaken from a nightmare. Her father has been missing for months. Advised to accept the harsh reality that he may never return, Jane isn’t ready to give up. She finds comfort in the one place she’s always run to for escape–her daydreams. Her imagination has the power to carry her across the ocean, stroll the streets of London, and imagine that all is well. In an unexpected turn of events, Jane is given the opportunity to create the future of her dreams–but will her pen be enough to save her? The Wedding is Book #3 in The Tales of Tarsurella Series.”


My Review:
 ❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎
5+ stars & 6/10 hearts. What a ride!! This book was intense. The excitement is mounting and the questions are rising thicker than ever about the disappearance of Mr. Akerly, the involvement of Mr. Fletcher, & all the code stuff. I loved the characters as much as ever I did, though I lost patience with most of them at certain places! I’m still shipping Hanson & Chasity (and I want Hanson to be saved SO badly) but I’m worried about Luke, so I’m shipping Hope & David instead. There was a kiss, some hugs, two mentions of being pregnant out of wedlock (not true), a “gosh,” and I didn’t agree with the music & clothing styles. Other than that, it was amazing—I mean, I really, REALLY feel like this is a true country and I’m also so grateful I’m not royalty—the author shows their difficulties SO well. I can’t tell how much I love the characters in this book!! I loved Jane’s storyline & Asher is amazing.... I’m just looking forwards to book four SO BADLY!

A Favourite Quote: “‘Your mind is precious, Hope, just as your heart is, and you know that I’ve poured my whole life into encouraging each of my children to guard their hearts at all costs. I don’t want you dumping toxic poison into your mind. Now I trust you, and I am confident in the young woman God has created you to be. You know who you are in Christ, and you’ve always had a strong Christian character. But even the strongest and purest can be deceived. It only takes a little bit of dirt to contaminate purity.’”
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “‘How. Can. You. Have. This. Many. Books!’ An airy voice was heard huffing and puffing its way up the stairs.... Charlie popped around the corner and his wobbly arms dropped the box of books on the floor. ‘I know all about the enchanting high you get from reading so much fiction, but the next time you want to haul so many novels up two flights of stairs, get a pulley up to the window or something! Aye, that’s actually not such a bad idea… it could be like a dumb-waiter, used to transport heavy objects to the attic.’ Charlie placed a thoughtful hand on his chin and examined the wall closest to him, ‘Hey, Aunt Cassidy, how do you feel about me cutting a hole in the wall?’”

*I received a copy of this book from the author but I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest opinions.*


Purchase this book:


About the Author:

Livy Jarmusch 
YA Christian Fiction Author of The Tales of Tarsurella & Regal Hearts

Livy Jarmusch is a dreamer, singer, songwriter and orphan advocate. As the founder of Crown of Beauty Magazine, she strives to reach young women and inspire them to realize their true worth in Christ. She loves fairy-tales, the smell just after it rains, golden retriever puppies and peppermint ice-cream cones. If you really want to get to know her, follow her on Pinterest, and if you find yourself repinning everything, you're sure to be the best of friends! To join this princess on her pilgrimage through life, follow on Instagram @livylynnglittergirl & Pinterest @livyglittergirl.



GIVEAWAY INFO:


The Wedding and all of Livy’s books are included in The Great Review Race, a Multi Author Monthly Giveaway. Submit your reviews to the form below to be entered into the giveaway! November Winner will receive a $30 Amazon gift card!

28 November 2019

“The Rebellion” by Olivia Lynn Jarmusch

And I'm back with the review of Book #2!


The Rebellion 
(The Tales of Tarsurella, #2)
by Olivia Lynn Jarmusch



Synopsis: 
Something is brewing. Like the far off rumble of a train in the distance, a rebellion is stirring. A cry for change arises in the midst of a traditional monarchy, where King Addison has inherited the throne. Who are the underground troublemakers? What is stirring their defiant banner and demand for change? Find out in The Rebellion!
Vanessa Bennett lands her dream job working at the Palace in Tarsurella. She struggles to balance everything on her plate: life in a new country, stressful deadlines, crabby co-workers, college classes at the local University, and blossoming feelings of romantic adoration toward her boss–King Addison. Keeping up with her To-Do list, while trying to earn respect in Addison’s male-dominated administration, presents its challenges. Nevertheless, she can’t help but fight a reoccurring thought and the excitement rising with it: is Addison interested in her?
Addison is adjusting to his new role as King. Rumors of a rebellious uprising among the youth in Tarsurella intensifies, as acts of violence and protest break out across the city. Addison is determined to uncover the hidden instigator who fearlessly blogs democracy-driven ideals with a secretive pen name. Will Addison discover and expose the fiery rebellion leader? Or will his efforts fail to stop the rebellious thoughts spreading like wildfire, causing a heartbreaking rift in his divided nation?


My Review:
 ❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎
5+ stars & 7/10 hearts. Oh my word. I got SO emotionally invested in this book. I was physically fangirling over Addison + Vanessa’s first date, writhed over a certain airport scene, triumphed soon after, and finished with squeals of delight. I was so, so happy. My romantic little heart was delighted. I absolutely loved all the stunning little palace details. The characters were just as amazing as ever they were, and I loved how the themes of trusting God & pushing past fear were deepened. This book was even cleaner than the first book, and besides the clothing & music, which I don’t agree with, and a hug + a young man swinging a young lady out of his way, the only thing I disliked was that two Christian girls became romantically attached to unsaved young men (nevertheless, I’m SO shipping Hanson & Chasity and I can’t decide if I’m shipping Luke + Hope or David + Hope. I want Hanson to get saved so bad—he has sooo much potential, I want him to be redeemed!!! Luke too! And Liam is just amazing *heart eyes*). Basically I was just fangirling and squealing and heart-eyes the whole book through... except when I was squirming in distress over Asher *cries* I just can’t help smiling so big! I adore this book series and I’m sooo excited to read the third book!!!

A Favourite Quote: “‘But that’s the beautiful thing about love. True, pure love, believes that any risk taken to love another person with their whole heart, is worth it. We love not with the intention of receiving love in return; we love because Jesus first loved us. Love is well aware of the fact that you could be badly hurt in the process. But that should never stop us from loving.... Love had a price to pay. But despite the suffering and mistreatment that our Lord Jesus endured because of our sinful rejection to His loving invitation, He showed us that choosing to love is always worth it.... Every human has to decide for themselves whether they’re going to live in love, or live in fear.’”
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “‘Have you gotten to the part where you told her that you’re madly in love, yet?!’
Addison resisted the urge to do a face palm. “‘How about you mind your own business, and go get the rest of our dinner.’”

*I received a copy of this book from the author but I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest opinions.*


Purchase this book:

About the Author:
Livy Jarmusch is a dreamer, singer, songwriter and orphan advocate. As the founder of Crown of Beauty Magazine, she strives to reach young women and inspire them to realize their true worth in Christ. She loves fairy-tales, the smell just after it rains, golden retriever puppies and peppermint ice-cream cones. If you really want to get to know her, follow her on Pinterest, and if you find yourself repinning everything, you're sure to be the best of friends! To join this princess on her pilgrimage through life, follow on Instagram @livylynnglittergirl & Pinterest @livyglittergirl.



BOOK INFO:

Title: The Wedding
Book Links: Amazon, Goodreads

“Vanessa Bennett is living in a real-life fairytale. Now that she’s engaged to the man of her dreams, The Palace Staff is consumed with wedding preparation. The upcoming event is no small affair, as Vanessa is bombarded with hundreds of decisions she needs to make before the wedding date arrives. Amidst the endless details concerning dresses, decorations and napkins, a greater question looms: is Vanessa truly ready to become Queen? As tensions rise within Tarsurella, the role of joining her betrothed in governing an ever-shifting nation is no small task. Will she crack under the pressure? Meanwhile, Jane Akerly is hoping to awaken from a nightmare. Her father has been missing for months. Advised to accept the harsh reality that he may never return, Jane isn’t ready to give up. She finds comfort in the one place she’s always run to for escape–her daydreams. Her imagination has the power to carry her across the ocean, stroll the streets of London, and imagine that all is well. In an unexpected turn of events, Jane is given the opportunity to create the future of her dreams–but will her pen be enough to save her? The Wedding is Book #3 in The Tales of Tarsurella Series.”

AUTHOR INFO:


Livy Jarmusch 
YA Christian Fiction Author of The Tales of Tarsurella & Regal Hearts
GIVEAWAY INFO:


The Wedding and all of Livy’s books are included in The Great Review Race, a Multi Author Monthly Giveaway. Submit your reviews to the form below to be entered into the giveaway! November Winner will receive a $30 Amazon gift card!

26 November 2019

“Rainbow Valley” by Lucy Maud Montgomery

Rainbow Valley
(Anne of Green Gables Series, #7)
by Lucy Maud Montgomery


Synopsis: 
 Anne's wonderful, lively children found a special place all their own. Rainbow Valley was the perfect spot to play, to dream and to make the most unusual friends, like the Merediths. They were two girls and two boys who had no mother. What they did have was a minister father who was looking for a wife but so far had found nothing but heartbreak. Between the minister courting a young spinster and the escapades of the restless children, the town was bubbling with scandal. But in the end, the warmth and laughter of Anne of Green Gables taught all an unforgettable lesson of love.

My Review:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ & ❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎
5+ stars & 8/10 hearts. This is such a lovely book. It just makes you so happy. The characters are all so real and loveable (or not!) and humorous and... living. The scenes are so interesting and funny and beautiful and sad... Oh, how those last paragraphs make me sad! There are a couple euphemisms; mentions of ghosts; and I don’t agree with everything. But it’s a wonderful book. Anne of Ingleside starts foreshadowing; then this one reminds poignantly of what’s coming up... and oh, you both dread and want to read Rilla!

A Favourite Quote: “Susan never worried over poor humanity. She did what in her lay for its betterment and serenely left the rest to the Higher Powers.”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: “The house ... looked .... over the harbour, silvered in the moonlight, to the sand-dunes and the moaning ocean. They walked in through a garden that always seemed to smell of roses, even when no roses were in bloom. There was a sisterhood of lilies at the gate and a ribbon of asters on either side of the broad walk, and a lacery of fir trees on the hill's edge beyond the house.”
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “‘...he went to the Jacob Drews' silver-wedding supper and got into a nice scrape as a result[.] Mrs. Drew asked him to carve the roast goose—for Jacob Drew never did or could carve. Well, Mr. Meredith tackled it, and in the process he knocked it clean off the platter into Mrs. Reese's lap, who was sitting next him. And he just said dreamily. “Mrs. Reese, will you kindly return me that goose?” Mrs. Reese “returned”’it, as meek as Moses, but she must have been furious, for she had on her new silk dress.’”

Purchase this book: 
The ebook is free on FeedbooksI do not recommend getting the first book off there because it's full of typos.

24 November 2019

“The Coronation” by Olivia Lynn Jarmusch

Hello, everyone!! I'm participating in this book tour and I'll be sharing the reviews of Books 1-3 of the Tales of Tarsurella!

When I saw Victoria Lynn had opened the blog tour linkup, I was originally not intending to enter, but then I decided to read the sample and boy, am I glad that I did!! I loved the samples so much that I instantly signed up to read & review The Coronation, The Rebellion, & The Wedding. I devoured these in about three days and was a fangirly mess. XD


My review of The Rebellion & The Wedding will be posted soon, so stay tuned!


The Coronation 
(The Tales of Tarsurella, #1)
by Olivia Lynn Jarmusch


Synopsis: 
Prince Addison is only several weeks away from inheriting the Kingdom of Tarsurella. The entire Palace is ablaze with excitement, as the Royal Family prepares for the event of a lifetime. Despite the exciting event which is near at hand, Addison and his younger siblings (all seven of them!) must carry on with their daily activities. Addison’s sisters, Princesses Bridget, Chasity, and Hope, have their struggles with being iconic European starlets of a modern day monarchy. The teen heiresses grace magazine covers, smile for photoshoots, and gracefully glide through important interviews–until a certain American popstar arrives on the scene. 
Kennetic Energy, the wildly popular band from the United States, is chosen to play at Addison’s Coronation. David Carter, the band’s handsome lead singer, fumbles through awkward moments with Princess Hope–in front of the cameras. When an embarrassing rumor sparks that Princess Hope is dating the young fellow, she is determined to get the band fired from their Royal gig.  
Meanwhile, Princess Chasity is dealing with her own fragile affairs of the heart. Her new security guard, Hanson Fletcher, is completely captivating, yet entirely frustrating. She attempts to keep the entrance of her heart firmly protected, while following the wisdom of Proverbs 4:23. But can she be successful in guarding her heart, from her security guard?


My Review:
 ❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎
5+ stars & 6/10 hearts. I really enjoyed this book. It’s set in an imaginary world and I love, love that. It’s just perfect—it feels totally European but unique and old-fashioned but modern. I loved the characters. I really related to the big family parts—they were so real. Millie is absolutely adorable and I love Addison... and Clark. I loved all the sibling relationships & parent-child relationships. I loved seeing the royal family as a normal family and as royalty. I loved the huge crisis. I loved the security guards aspect. I didn’t agree with everything—like the dancing, clothing styles, and music style—, and there was a mention of Addison noticing a girl with a dress “hugging all the right places” and his heart speeds up; some hugging, cheek-kisses, touching, & an almost kiss; a couple veiled hints at what an unscrupulous man could do to a girl who was in his power + a moment where he threatens to undress her (to make her wear a wedding dress) & starts tearing her sleeve; a mention of a young man hiding a video camera in a girl’s room & planning to get footage of “whatever he had hoped would happen” after he’d gotten her to kiss him; also two “hecks.” Other than that, it was clean, and I really appreciated how the girls refused to kiss until marriage & wanted to guard their heart for the right man. I loved the lessons that filled this book—about trusting God and forgiving. This book was so realistic and funny and full of adorable-ness and family wonderful characters and I just really, really enjoyed it. It was a spectacular debut novel and I’m so looking forwards to book two! Recommended ages: 14+

A Favourite Quote:
I’m trusting God. I can’t control what happens, but He can. I’m going to trust in His peace and believe that everything is going to work out exactly like it’s supposed to. God, I give You my worries and anxiety. Help me to have Your perspective and believe that everything is perfectly fine when I surrender it into Your hands.’”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: “Golden leaves sparkled and danced in the gentle breeze, waving sweetly to the bustling city below. The ancient maple trees had lived through many changes. Hundreds of years passed since these European saplings first sprouted from the ground.
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “‘What. Is. That?’ Millie asked, drawing out each word for dramatic effect.
“‘It’s called quiche,’ Jillian stated simply.
“‘I’ve never heard of it.’ Millie wrinkled her nose, ‘I don’t think I like it.’
“‘Just try it,’ Jillian instructed.
“‘But what if I can’t bear to swallow it?’
“‘Then you’ll be polite, and eat it anyway.’
“‘But what if it’s the most disgusting food in the entire world and it makes me feel sick to my stomach?’
“‘It doesn’t matter; you’ll still be gracious and eat it.’”

*I received a copy of this book from the author but I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest opinions.*


Purchase this book:

About the Author:
Livy Jarmusch is a dreamer, singer, songwriter and orphan advocate. As the founder of Crown of Beauty Magazine, she strives to reach young women and inspire them to realize their true worth in Christ. She loves fairy-tales, the smell just after it rains, golden retriever puppies and peppermint ice-cream cones. If you really want to get to know her, follow her on Pinterest, and if you find yourself repinning everything, you're sure to be the best of friends! To join this princess on her pilgrimage through life, follow on Instagram @livylynnglittergirl & Pinterest @livyglittergirl.



BOOK INFO:

Title: The Wedding
Book Links: Amazon, Goodreads

“Vanessa Bennett is living in a real-life fairytale. Now that she’s engaged to the man of her dreams, The Palace Staff is consumed with wedding preparation. The upcoming event is no small affair, as Vanessa is bombarded with hundreds of decisions she needs to make before the wedding date arrives. Amidst the endless details concerning dresses, decorations and napkins, a greater question looms: is Vanessa truly ready to become Queen? As tensions rise within Tarsurella, the role of joining her betrothed in governing an ever-shifting nation is no small task. Will she crack under the pressure? Meanwhile, Jane Akerly is hoping to awaken from a nightmare. Her father has been missing for months. Advised to accept the harsh reality that he may never return, Jane isn’t ready to give up. She finds comfort in the one place she’s always run to for escape–her daydreams. Her imagination has the power to carry her across the ocean, stroll the streets of London, and imagine that all is well. In an unexpected turn of events, Jane is given the opportunity to create the future of her dreams–but will her pen be enough to save her? The Wedding is Book #3 in The Tales of Tarsurella Series.”

AUTHOR INFO:


Livy Jarmusch 
YA Christian Fiction Author of The Tales of Tarsurella & Regal Hearts
GIVEAWAY INFO:


The Wedding and all of Livy’s books are included in The Great Review Race, a Multi Author Monthly Giveaway. Submit your reviews to the form below to be entered into the giveaway! November Winner will receive a $30 Amazon gift card!