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30 January 2014

Marian Baay reviews DARK JUSTICE by Brandilyn Collins



Reviewed by Marian Baay

Hannah Shire—together with her elderly mother who is suffering from dementia—drives home after a weekend stay at a hotel. Beside the road they spot a car on its side and a man lying on the ground next to it. As a doctor’s assistant, Hannah rushes to his side. With his last breath, the man is trying to tell her something and fumbles with her coat pocket. Hannah cannot make any sense of the words the man is saying, but she understands not to tell anyone. So she does not say anything to the sheriff.

Back home she finds a flash stick in her pocket and when she checks to see what is on it, there is a video that shows some sort of machine—but Hannah does not understand what is happening in the video.
A short time later two FBI agents knock on Hannah’s door and demand to know what the dying man has told her. She finds the agents intimidating and rude, therefore she does not want to tell them anything. But she has already said she has a flash stick and regrets that the words slipped past her lips. When the agents leave, Hannah gives them a copy of the flash stick and keeps the original. Shortly after she learns that the FBI agents were fake, and when one of them returns at night with a gun, Hannah knows she must run for her life. She leaves in the middle of the night, taking her eldery mother with her. They drive for hours—not knowing where to go. Hannah’s daughter gets involved too and also has to run for her life. As the hours slip by, they seem to understand a bit more of what is going on, but they also do not understand anything at all.
Who are the Bad Guys chasing them? Who can be trusted? Where can they go? Can three women save America from disaster?

As usual Brandilyn Collins penned a highly suspenseful tale that kept me on the edge of my seat!

*Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy through NetGalley.*

You can find Brandilyn's books at Amazon, CBD, and other bookstores.
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GIVEAWAY: We are giving away one copy of this wonderful book! Don't forget to leave your email so we can contact you if you are our lucky winner! International winners e-book only!! 

28 January 2014

Teresa Mathews' Review Of 'Dark Justice' By Brandilyn Collins


Dark Justice by Brandilyn Collins

B & H Publishing

Reviewed by Teresa S. Mathews

5 Stars*****


***Now I know why it's called Seatbelt Suspense***

Since I was first introduced to Brandilyn Collins’ books I have been hooked. So when I found out I had missed this one back in November I was beyond upset and I knew I had to read it ASAP! I am so glad I DID, what a spine-chilling story filled with so many twists and turns you may find yourself holding onto the edge of your seat!

Hannah Shire is a very dutiful daughter taking care of an elderly mother with dementia; she longs for the days when her husband was alive and her mother was well. Wanting to help her mom hold on the present, she takes her to the coast for a weekend getaway. On the return trip she decides on a whim to take the beautiful scenic route home. What a mistake that would be!

Not far into the drive Hannah’s mom calls to her attention an overturned car by the roadside, wanting to be of help, Hannah stops. Finding an elderly man lying a few feet from the car Hannah checks to see if he is ok, concerned when he appears to have difficulty breathing she calls 9-11. While waiting on help to arrive the man uses all of his strength to utter a few words to Hannah and her mom. What he begs them to do and what he secretly slips into Hannah’s pocket will forever change the course of their lives!

Despite being questioned at the scene by the police Hannah doesn't divulge what the man said to her and she is released to go home, once there she discovers a flash drive in her coat pocket. The information she finds on that flash drive doesn't make a lot of sense to her so she calls her daughter to ask her to watch it. What she discovers will have them both terrified and running for their lives not knowing who they can trust to help them!                                                             

Brandilyn Collins has once again created a suspense so consuming I found myself torn between reading it in one setting or stopping to get a few hours sleep. Without giving anything away let me say this plot could very well happen here in the US and that made it that much more terrorizing to me!! Thank you Brandilyn for a most enjoyable although heart-stopping read!!

Bibliotherapy: Brandilyn did a wonderful job describing the effect dementia had on Hannah’s mom. I too have a mom that has dementia and it is very heart-rending to witness your loved one lose their grip on reality.

***Thanks to Net Galley and B & H Publishing for providing me a copy of this in exchange for my honest opinion!*** 

QUESTION:  Do you know Brandilyn's Tag Line?  Hint: If you "LIKE" her Author's Facebook Page you will find it. Make sure to let me know in your comments.

GIVEAWAY: We are giving away one copy of this wonderful book, if you can find the answer to the question please put it in your comment! Don't forget to leave your email so we can contact you if you are our lucky winner! International winners e-book only!!  

27 January 2014

What Does Carrie Do in Her Free Time?

Walkway to the Moore House in Yorktown, Virginia, Photo by Carrie Fancett Pagels

I just posted on Colonial Quills about one of my favorite spots to visit in Yorktown--the Moore House, which is part of the National Park Service.  Come on over and visit, with me!

24 January 2014

Diana Flowers Reviews 'Dare To Love Again' By Julie Lessman

Dare To Love Again


Reviewed by Diana Flowers
5 stars*****

Another Jewel By Julie!

In Dare to Love Again, author Julie Lessman writes an impassioned, powerful story of two very diverse worlds—from the lap of luxury of the very elite on Nob Hill to the poverty-stricken, brothel laden streets of the Barbary Coast…and of the wealthy, young woman who attempts to cross the dangerous bridge to both. 

Allison McClare and her mother, Caitlyn, have just opened their new school for the less fortunate, the Hand of Hope School for girls, right in the middle of the Barbary Coast, where a decent lady dare not venture out alone after dark. Allie's independent streak lands her in immediate danger, forcing her Uncle Logan to hire Detective Nick Barone (pronounced long "e") to teach her self-defense and escort her to and from work everyday. Allie's heart was shattered into pieces when she was betrayed by her ex-boyfriend, and Nick refuses to ever trust a wealthy snob of a woman again, and the sparks begin to fly between the two in short order! However, Allie soon sees beyond Nick's insults and gruff exterior, and as strong feelings begin to develop will she dare to fall in love again?…especially with a man who carries dark secrets and may not be who he says he is?

I always knew Julie Lessman was a wonderful romance writer, but now I place her in the category of a brilliant and masterful storyteller as well. Although this novel made me laugh out loud more than once and was alot of fun, there was also a serious, heartbreaking side to it as well. For Ms. Lessman courageously and compassionately delves into the seedier side of life; of murder and corruption, young girls being forced into prostitution, and disease caused by poverty. I must say, the romantic tension in this one caused my heart to race erratically, and a plot twist in the romance between the heroine's mother, Caitlyn, and her Uncle Logan left me reaching for the tissues. One powerfully written novel of healing, forgiveness, and learning to trust again! Be sure to put this one at the top of your TBR list!

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This book may be purchased through CBD, Amazon, BAM, and your local bookstore.

GIVEAWAY: We have a new paperback of Dare to Love Again, a gently used paperback, and an ebook copy to give away this week! Please include email address for contact purposes.

22 January 2014

Noela Nancarrow reviews DARE TO LOVE AGAIN by Julie Lessman

Dare to Love Again
Dare to Love Again
by Julie Lessman
Revell (January 7, 2014)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

~5 Stars~ ***** 


Brilliant right to the end!

This is one of those stories! The type of story that adheres you to its pages, shackling you as its willing captive. The type that invades your thoughts and your heart with its arresting characters, the rousing and invigorating plot, and  the faith-building, inspiring voices within. And the type that has you exclaiming upon reaching the end, “Wow, now THAT was an incredible story!”

High-spirited Allison (Alli) McClare is fighting two battles. She desperately wants her independence regardless of the neighbourhood dangers; and after having her heart utterly broken by a money-hungry fraud in the past, she’s been in a fight to guard her heart over the last two years. That is, until the handsome yet surly Nick Barone comes into her life and unintentionally into her heart. Nick has some monumental secrets however, so if Allison dares to love again, can she survive yet another heartbreak if these secrets were to unravel?

Dark-haired Nick Barone (must be said with a long 'e'!) is a grouchy detective that is holding a massive grudge for the rich socialites of the community. Allison seems to fit into this mold, so when Nick is forced to teach her self-defense and see to her safety that she may have some independence, he is furious! In time, Nick sees that there is much more to this little spit-fire than he originally thought and soon this begrudging relationship, sparks and all, grows into something much more intense. Nick has plenty to overcome for this to work. Will the secrets of this angry and vengeful detective kill their hope and future before it even begins?

This is a not-to-be missed Julie Lessman masterpiece! In this second book of the Heart of San Francisco series, the lively characters we all fell in love with in the first, are right there along with Alli and Nick, providing extra scintillating dialogue and a powerful heartfelt subplot. I’m truly in awe of the author’s ability to create not only the most engaging and animated conversations that have razor-sharp wit and discourse so raw and believable, but she also manages to generate romantic tension so passionate and spring-loaded that you’re left breathless!

My only grievance with this story was that it came to an end. I wanted more as I wasn't ready to give it up. The good news is – there'll be more coming in this amazing series. The bad news is – I will have to wait. However this highly recommended story is easily read again in the meantime and most likely will be!

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GIVEAWAY: We have a new paperback of Dare to Love Again, a gently used paperback and an e-book copy to give away this week!! 
Please include e-mail address for contact purposes.

DISCUSSION QUESTION: A lesson learned the hard way by some of the characters was that ‘fear distorts wisdom every single time’. Have you experienced this yourself and/or what are your thoughts on this phrase?

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Dare to Love Again can be purchased from Amazon, CBD, Bam, and your local bookstore.



20 January 2014

Teresa S Mathews Reviews Julie Lessman's Dare to Love Again






Dare to Love Again 
by Julie Lessman

Revell Publishing 2014

Reviewed by Teresa S Mathews

5 Stars*****











Another Romantic Masterpiece by The Queen of Romance!
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In this book two of The Heart of San Francisco series Julie Lessman takes us on an exciting topsy-turvy adventure that mirrors the ups and downs of a cable car ride on those infamous San Fran hills.

Allison McClare, the beautiful and feisty oldest daughter of Caitlyn McClare is ready to put her broken heart behind her and spread her wings in this new chapter of her life. She is determined to be the best teacher possible to the dear underprivileged girls that are going to attend the new school her mother is opening on the Barbary Coast. Even though she was born into a life of riches, Allison has a servant's heart and wants to see these girls have a better life than the debauchery most have been exposed to. Her plan is going well until a handsome, ornery Detective shows up in her classroom, smelling of Bay Rum and animal crackers!!

Nick Barone, (long E) is a hardworking, ill- tempered Detective that hides a big heart underneath that gruff exterior. Nick has had his fill of spoiled little rich girls so he knows to keep his distance from Allison McClare. But all it takes is just one look into Allison McClare's eyes to know she is going to be hard to run from.

Allison will not be duped by a man again; Nick will not lose his heart to a "Snob"-Hill rich girl; but what happens between these two people that are carrying around hidden hurts will have you on the brink of tears one moment and laughing out loud the next. And in true Julie fashion she will have you mumbling under your breath wanting to shake some sense into at least one or two of the characters! Oh Wait...maybe that only happens to me!!  :-)

Julie Lessman is truly the Queen of Romance! She knows how to insert just the right amount of tension into a scene so that you are pulled in so far you will find yourself falling in love right along with the heroine. What rapture! What ecstasy! This story has it all! Julie has certainly left her mark on my heart with this story, and it wasn't just Allison and Nick's story either, it seems Caitlyn now has TWO men that want to catch her attention. Thanks Julie for giving me another sweet family to fall in love with!!

You may  purchase this book at AmazonCBD, and BAM and your local bookstores.


QUESTION: To be entered in the drawing go to Julie's Facebook Author Page and "Like It" if you haven't already. Now just for fun let's see how many of you can tell me Julie's Tagline? I'll even make it easier, just fill in the missing word; _______With a Purpose! HINT: This is something ALL of Julie's books are filled with! Wink!! Wink!!

GIVEAWAY: We are giving away three books of this treasure, one gently used paperback, one new paperback and an e-book copy. E-book copy only to International winners. 





18 January 2014

Our Planned Authors to Review in 2014

Some of the authors on our lists:
Tamara Alexander
Lori Benton
Lisa T. Bergren 
Joanne Bischof
Margaret Brownley
Kristy Cambron
Jamie Carie
Robin Caroll (multiple releases)
Lisa Carter
Vannetta Chapman
Brandilyn Collins
Dawn Crandall
Jennifer Dellamere
Rebecca DeMarino
Melanie Dickerson
Suzanne Woods Fisher
Laura Frantz
Deeanne Gist
Rachel Hauck
Jody Hedlund
Liz Curtis Higgs
Julie Klassen
Sarah Ladd 
Michael Landon Jr & Cindy Kelley
Stephanie Landsem
Julie Lessman 
Christine Lindsay
Kelly Long
Nancy Mehl 
Serena Miller
Tracie Peterson
Murray Pura 
Naomi Rawlings
Sarah Sundin
Bodie and Brock Thoene
Carrie Turansky
MaryLu Tyndall
Dan Walsh
Karen Witemeyer
Elizabeth Byler Younts


Some of the authors may not have a release this year but we are hoping! Having one's name on this list does not guarantee we will review. But we will definitely be looking at titles from these authors. Of course if Marian Baay and Carrie Fancett Pagels have releases this year, and our friend Kathy Maher, we'll review those, too!  

Would you like to do a guest review of a wonderful different author who is not on this list?  Email Carrie at OvercomingWithGod@aol.com. Also, we are accepting guest post requests from friends/followers/fellow bloggers/writers who wish to share an overcoming experience with our readers. Same email. 





This coming week is JULIE LESSMAN week! Our OWG angels are reviewing all week long. We have a new paperback, a gently used paperback, and an ebook to give away this week. Simply comment on Noela's, Diana's, and Teresa's reviews to enter (follow their rules).  

Comments closed on this post. If you want to read Carrie's review of Julie's lovely book, you'll have to check on Christian Book Distributors, GoodReads or Amazon. I ordered five copies from CBD!  


16 January 2014

Noela Nancarrow reviews ASHTON PARK by Murray Pura

Ashton Park
by Murray Pura
Harvest House Publishers (January 1, 2013)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow
~5 Stars~ *****

This is an exceptional and exhilarating saga featuring a wealthy, large aristocratic family called the Danforth's of Lancashire, who reside in an ancient, grand manor on their Ashton Park Estate. There is nothing stuffy about this story however, considering it is replete with forbidden romances, and drama and action that's also intensified with an edge-of-your-seat suspense. Ashton Park carries a semblance of Downton Abbey but whether you're a fan or not, you can be sure this novel is definitely livelier and way more action-packed than the television series.

We are taken back to an era during World War One where the decline of the aristocrats and the breaking down of strict social rules has begun to take effect. Lord William and Lady Elizabeth Danforth struggle to come to terms with these changes when it directly touches their family with some of their children falling in love with those of a lower class. As a result, there are secret rendezvous', betrayals, and heartbreak. With the Great War also impacting upon the Danforth family due to the active service of three of the young Danforth sons and one of the Danforth daughters, this family of nobility goes through tremendous upheaval during the time span of this book which is from 1916 until 1923.

It is during this time; the great conflict between the British and the IRA (Irish Republican Army) was also transpiring and beginning to intensify. The youngest son Robbie Danforth, who was enlisted in the British Army, was serving in Ireland for this war and we see him wrestle for self-control when it becomes extremely personal to him. His brother Kipp, a pilot in the Royal Air Force, takes up in the air for an exciting battle with a German tri-plane and ends with a victory that then credits him with becoming an Ace. And Edward the eldest son is in the Royal Navy, and faces his own harrowing experiences. These and a few other portrayals of extremely intense battles are illustrated in this book, but all are absolutely thrilling without being verbose. The history is fascinating and interesting, and the author, proficient in his research.

There is not a dull moment to be found in Ashton Park amidst the trials and triumphs of the Danforth's and their loved ones. The romances dotted right throughout are delightful and smile-inducing. Their faith in God is often tested, and sometimes left wanting, while other times, inspiring. The births and weddings are joyous, but the dangers and deaths are heart-stopping and heart-rending. Ashton Park also delivers an important message of redemption and forgiveness. Overall, it captures you with its charm whilst whisking you on a fascinating journey back into history with its breathtaking scenes!

Find Murray’s books at AmazonCBDB&NDeeperShopping, and other bookstores.
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GIVEAWAY: Winners choice of a copy of one of the books in The Danforths of Lancashire series; Ashton Park, Beneath the Dover Sky, or London Dawn—paperback or ebook.
Leave a comment and your email address to be entered in the contest.


14 January 2014

Murray Pura's new release LONDON DAWN reviewed by Marian Baay

London Dawn


Reviewed by Marian Baay
~5 stars ~*****

Oh, how I enjoyed this last book in The Danforths of Lancashire Series! I even think I enjoyed this one the most of all. I was hooked from the first page where I was back at Ashton Park in 1934 and from there I was thrown right into a tense political situation in Germany with Catherine and Albrecht…and that was just the beginning of the action. The many twists and turns in this book kept me glued to the pages as each time I learned something new about the Danforth family members—they never cease to amaze me.

Several of Lord William and Lady Elizabeth’s grandchildren have joined the Royal Air Force, Navy, and Army. When Hitler starts the air attack on Britain in 1940, Lord Preston cannot do much more than pray for his family while they are flying their Spitfires to defend Britain from the German fighters. But will his prayers be enough to keep them all alive?

This is one of the most powerful fiction books I have read this year. The story is realistic, vividly written, and has a strong plot.
This book touched my heart in many ways; it had my heart racing several times when I witnessed the air battles—I could almost hear the roaring of the Spitfires’ engines and hear the bullets whistle by. There was heart-pounding action in the sea battle—it was like watching a movie as I saw the white caps thrashing the battle ship and heard the seagulls cry. There was heartache when loved ones died, but also heart-stirring romance when grandchildren found new love.

London Dawn was a perfect conclusion of this trilogy, but I hate to say good-bye to the Danforths. I shared in their joy and sorrow and won’t forget them soon.
Praise to the author for writing such an excellent series. Well done, Mr. Pura!

*Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy through NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.*

Find Murray’s books at Amazon, CBD, B&N, DeeperShopping, and other bookstores.
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GIVEAWAY: Winners choice of a copy of one of the books in The Danforths of Lancashire series; Ashton Park, Beneath the Dover Sky, or London Dawn—paperback or ebook.
Why would you like to win? 
Leave a comment and your email address to be entered in the contest.

12 January 2014

What's New on OWG for 2014!!!


THANK YOU FOR FOLLOWING US ON OWG!!!

For 2014, we've instituted some new changes and kept some of our old ways, too! We hope we'll be your "cup of tea" in 2014!!!

The American OWG members met in South Carolina and discussed our new modus operandi. In 2014, the main four reviewers, Diana Flowers (our Senior Reviewer), Teresa Mathews (our poetess), Noela Nancarrow (Australian reviewer), and Marian Baay (Netherlands reviewer, international editor, and author) will choose the books they wish to read and review and will invite other OWG reviewers to also review the book. Carrie will be doing very few book reviews because of her writing schedule. Marian, also, will be doing fewer reviews and has begun her own blog.  So, for instance, Diana may choose to read an author's novel and will set up that week, so authors will begin to hear more from our individual reviewers as they take more direction of the blog posts.

Author interviews: In 2014 interview numbers will decrease because the list of authors, whose books will be reviewed, have had interviews within the past year or two. Authors recently featured will be invited to do a post on overcoming, rather than an interview. As per previous guidelines, we expect featured authors to respond back to our commenters.

The Angel's Heart Award:  In 2014 we began our first every OWG blog award for Book of the Year (had to have made 4 of the 5 lists or better) combined with the author graciously responding to our Followers when they comment.  This year's first recipient was Julie Lessman, as previously announced.

Favorites:  We will continue to have our Favorites of the Year, Summer recommended reading lists, and other lists of our favorites dependent upon the time of year.

We've begun an Author List for our 2014 Books to be reviewed. All the OWG reviewers contributed the names of those whose books we plan to read this year.  Some of those names: Tamera Alexander, Julie Klassen, Julie Lessman, Laura Frantz, Kelly Long, Murray Pura, and MaryLu Tyndall. We'll be posting our list here later or we'll be adding a Page to the Blog that lists our 2014 schedule.

Same: We want to ENGAGE with our readers--that means you!!!  So we plan to continue spending time with our Followers and visitings who comment.  We also want this to be a place where authors feel comfortable.  We will continue to give away a book, from OWG, one per week unless otherwise noted, and authors can add to the giveaways each week if they choose to do so.

Different with Giveaways: We are trying to find a way so commenters do not have to leave their email addresses.  If you are a "regular" visitor here, do not leave your email address--we will find you.  Same thing goes if you are FB friends with any of the OWG members--we can contact you that way.  OR you can check the top right column on the blog to check to see if your name was drawn. Also, gifts will in general not be mailed until the end of the month.  If possible, they will go out earlier.

Many blessings and we hope you'll enjoy the year ahead with OWG.

I am closing comments on this post, but if you wish to you can contact me on FB.  (Click here.)

10 January 2014

Noela Nancarrow reviews UNDER A BLACKBERRY MOON by Serena B. Miller

Under a Blackberry Moon
Revell (October 15, 2013)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow
5 Stars *****


A Perilous Journey of the Wilderness and the Heart 

What an intriguing story! This is one that captures your attention right from the outset. RITA Award winner Serena B. Miller, has produced yet another stunning story of heart-warming romance, gripping adventure, and evolving faith, with ‘Under A Blackberry Moon’.

Within the first few pages, the reader will be absorbed immediately into the reality of the delightful Moon Song, a young Indian Chippewa widow, and her experiences in a town of white people, which unfortunately also included many roughened and immoral loggers. It becomes clear to those close to her that it is too dangerous for her to stay. Moon Song longs to return to her tribe with her baby anyway, and so the plan is set in place for her to travel back with Skypilot, a lumberjack friend of hers that she once nursed back to health.

Isaac Ross, aka Skypilot, a large and ruggedly handsome man who has been a lumberjack and also a minister, willingly takes this long journey with his valued friend, Moon Song. He’s been restless lately concerning his future and this trip seemed like a good idea… at first. However, his attitude changed after tragedy caused Skypilot and Moon Song to fight for their lives and work together to survive the dangerous and unforgiving wilderness of the Northwoods. Seeing his beautiful Indian friend work so capably in the untamed wilderness, compelled Skypilot to see her in a whole new light. As they are drawn to each other, it opens up the dilemmas of culture problems and whether either of them can walk away from their own world to join the other.

Under the Blackberry Moon was a genuinely memorable story… one that is articulated by an accomplished and skillful story-teller. Serena Miller brings to life the real Moon Song in a fictional story that’s interspersed with heart-rending yet true events of history, along with the phenomenal courage and strength of a brave Indian woman during a time when the Indians were being displaced and looked down upon as less than human. This was a thoroughly enjoyable read of an unusual love story between two unlikely people; full of surprises and surprising twists and turns, and one that will take a hold of your heart and thoughts!


This book may be purchased through Amazon, CBD and other bookstores.
Outside of the USA check out Book Depository for free postage!

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TWO GIVEAWAYS: A paperback copy of 'Under a Blackberry Moon' +  Winner's choice of ebook or paperback of the same!

QUESTION:  How do you think you'd go trekking through the wilderness for a week? Do you think you'd survive? 
*Please leave your email address for contact purposes*
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09 January 2014

Serena Miller's "Under a Blackberry Moon" Reviewed by Carrie Fancett Pagels


Reviewed by Carrie Fancett Pagels
~5 stars~*****

Serena Miller told me at the 2013 ACFW conference that she had a story set in Michigan's Upper Peninsular, where I grew up.  My OWG "Angels" also told me there was a sequel book out to The Measure of Katie Calloway, which I loved.

Moon Song is a young metisse woman, half Anglo and half Chippewa, but she identifies herself as being of the Chippewa tribe. She has a baby and had spent the winter working at a lumber camp where she also nursed an axeman (who'd been a preacher) nicknamed "Skypilot" back to health. Moon Song has good reason to believe that a white man won't stay with a native woman long term--this was especially true in earlier times among the soldiers who came and went from the forts.

Enroute, via ship, to Lake Superior, tragedy strikes. Skypilot, Moon Song, her son, and an officer's wife, Isabella, end up stuck at what I believe is meant to be "Pictured Rocks" although it is referred to as Painted Rocks in the book.  Pictured Rocks are fabulous and are near modern day Munising. I've had many a wonderful trip there and my father enjoyed having picnics up at the top, where there is a park.  But I can't imagine trying to get to the top from the beach below!

Moon Song has been coached in the old ways by her grandmother. These methods assist the foursome as they make their way to Marquette.  I loved how Serena included a priest inspired by our own precious Bishop Baraga!  The love story is very sweet and beautifully portrayed.

I have relatives of Chippewa and other native American descent and I felt Serena was thoughtful in her depiction and probably pretty accurate. And it never dawned on me, what she has happen at the end, that this could have happened to any of my relatives' grandparents or great-grandparents. Nice twist.

*Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy through NetGalley.*

Find Serena's books at AmazonCBD, and other bookstores.



Giveaway: We have a paperback copy of "Under A Blackberry Moon" 
to give away this week and one option of either ebook/paperback of the same (so TWO chances to win this week!)
To enter you must "LIKE" Serena's Amazon page (click here), tell us you did, and tell us if you have EVER visited Michigan's beautiful upper peninsula!

07 January 2014

Marian Baay reviews Under a Blackberry Moon by Serena Miller



Reviewed by Marian Baay
~5 stars~*****

When I heard that Serena Miller had written a story about the heroic character from The Measure of Katie Calloway – Skypilot – I knew I had to read this book. 
I loved Skypilot; his character, his hard-working nature, and how he was willing to sacrifice himself to save the life of Robert’s young daughter.

In Under a Blackberry Moon, Skypilot accompanies the native young woman, Moon Song, and her eight month old son from Jack’s lumber camp back to her tribe.
We were introduced to Moon Song in The Measure of Katie Calloway where she stumbled into Robert’s lumber camp. She was also the person who nursed Skypilot back to health. They developed a friendship during that time, but feelings are running a bit deeper than a mere friendship for Moon Song. She is trying to keep them under control, because she doesn’t believe that a white man will stay with a native woman over the long haul. She has seen that happen often enough in the tribes.

During their travel, tragedy strikes and lives are lost. Thankfully Skypilot, Moon Song, her son, and a white woman named Isabella survive. Stranded on a sandbank with no way to get off, Moon Song’s survival instinct kicks in. She leads Skypilot and Isabella to a safer place, meanwhile searching  and preparing food.

Skypilot—big and strong as he is—has to rely on Moon Song to survive their trek through the wilderness of Michigan. His admiration for the woman grows into something more, but Moon Song doesn’t hesitate to turn him down. Will Skypilot find a way to win her heart?

What a wonderful story! I really enjoyed reading Moon Song and Skypilot’s adventure. Moon Song turned out to be an interesting woman; sensitive but tough. She knows what she wants and what needs to be done. Skypilot already stole my heart in The Measure of Katie Calloway and it was a delight to get to know him better and see how he held onto his faith and believes.
To make the story even more interesting, there were some unexpected twists and turns that kept me glued to the pages. The unforeseen surprise at the end kept me smiling long after I finished the book.


*Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy through NetGalley.*

Find Serena's books at Amazon, CBD, and other bookstores.
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GIVEAWAY: A copy of Under a Blackberry Moon--winners choice of paperback or Kindle copy..

* Please leave your email address for contact purposes. *

06 January 2014

Our First Ever OWG "The Angel's Heart" Award Winner - Julie Lessman


This past year the Overcoming With God bloggers discussed coming up with a winner for overall favorites of the year. We've started a tradition of each of us compiling a list of about ten favorite books of the year. However, we felt there needed to be an author component to the award, also. We wanted our "The Angel's Heart" Award Winner to have also earned our "You Take the Cake Award."  We reserve that award for authors who've gone above and beyond, this past year, when commenting back to our followers.

"Love At Any Cost" was on 4 of 5 lists.
Love At Any Cost
Each of the Bloggers had a list of favorite novels (and some of us also listed favorite short stories and novellas.) To be eligible for the award, the Author had to have a) completed a full length novel that at least 4 of the 5 of us included on our lists, b) have earned the "You Take the Cake" distinction, and c) have been voted on by the OWG members for this distinction.


We are pleased to announce this year's "The Angel's Heart" winner is:



Julie will receive a commemorative plaque from artist Beverly Mayes, of Nashville.

Giveaway: A copy of Julie's BRAND NEW release "Dare to Love Again"!!!  You have to "LIKE" her Author Page on Amazon (click here) and leave a comment for Julie here on OWG!

05 January 2014

Happy Birthday Carrie


Our beautiful Carrie!
Thanks to Elizabeth "Liz" Dent for this pretty frame.
We want to wish Carrie a very Happy Birthday!! We aren't accepting comments today because she is spending time with her family. Feel free to send her a message on her Facebook page wishing her the best of birthdays!











This is the 20 layer Gluten-free birthday cake I made for Carrie when she was visiting South Carolina last weekend.









This past year Carrie had her debut Civil War novella published. Return to Shirley Plantation is an absolutely amazing story of love and obedience.












Carrie also had her sweet Christmas story Snowed In published in the Guideposts' book A Cup of Christmas Cheer. This beautiful set flew off the shelves so fast there had to be a second run! How Exciting!


We can barely wait to see what GOD has planned for our sweet Carrie this year. Join with us in prayer for Him to bless her and strengthen her body as she strives to do His will for her life.



Happy Birthday Carrie from your Angels. We love you!


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