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30 December 2016

Noela's List of 2016 Favorite Reads!



Featured below are 10 of my favorite novels from those I've reviewed on OWG this year, in no particular order. Of course there are many more that I've read or are yet to read that are also truly exceptional books. I hope that these outstanding few will inspire you to check them out to either purchase by clicking on the picture, or to add to your wish list! Enjoy!
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Sofi's Bridge
Tragedy and trauma haunt Sofi and her sister. When Sofi may lose her sister, they silently flee in the early hours along with the gardener. But will their destination be their refuge or carry grave risks for them all? Masterfully penned with an intriguing atmosphere and an exquisite love story!
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Her One and Only
Pair a macho football star that's sworn off love and his diminutive beautiful bodyguard that's all business—and delight in the electrifying chemistry that they attempt to subdue! This invigorating story scores a touch-down with irresistible characters, a sizzling romance, and a foreboding mystery!
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Saratoga Letters
This is an enthralling novel fashioned around the historical Battle of Saratoga. Authentic and emotive, this story is creatively paralleled from two different eras—two hundred years apart. From the battlefield of the Revolutionary War during 1777 to modern-day 1977 and the commemoration of the infamous battle, this two-part story is connected through the ages by not only ancestry and other fascinating similarities, but heartbreak, danger, and enchanting romances!
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So Rare a Gift
In 'So Rare a Gift' you'll be swept up in an unforgettable tale of valor and zeal, secrets and lies, and deadly revenge. Trouble follows Anna Rone as she flees to America to escape a forced marriage and to seek out the truth of her brother's death. Needing security in this new land, she marries a man she's known for but a few days—but does she really know who she's marrying? Exquisite prose and a breathtaking romance make this a not-to-be-missed experience!
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A Lady Unrivaled
'A Lady Unrivaled', Book #3, completes the Ladies of the Manor series. I truly cannot recommend this series enough! All three books are absolute masterpieces of Edwardian romance and suspense. Each book likewise delivers the most delightful wit throughout—such that it out-sparkles the priceless red diamonds that places everyone's life in so much danger! Beautifully written as always!
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Saving the Marquise's Granddaughter
Set in 1742 during yet another wave of brutal religious persecution in France and the Palatinate, this gorgeous novel vividly portrays an aristocrat's granddaughter's arduous survival of both body and heart as she flees from tremendous danger and betrayal. Exquisitely descriptive with fascinating historic detail!
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The Beautiful Pretender
'The Beautiful Pretender' is a medieval fairy-tale retelling of The Princess and the Pea meets Beauty and the Beast! Imposing stone castles, wolf-infested forests, and immensely gripping characters together with treachery, sacrifice, and love, ensures this medieval tale emerging from 1363 in the Holy Roman Empire—is one that seizes the reader instantly from the breathtaking beginning!
 Melanie Dickerson also had TWO other releases this year that were just as stunning and worth checking out: A Spy's Devotion (A Regency Romance) and the recent release 'The Silent Songbird'!
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A Promise in Defiance
The worst of lawlessness and immorality encounter God and grace in this Wild West tale. Grittier than your average historical, 'A Promise in Defiance' is painted with bold strokes of realism, creating a fast-paced, unpredictable, and utterly compelling experience. This mind-blowing story is part three in one of the most powerful and memorable series you'll read in this genre!
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She Walks in Power
Step back through the ages into medieval England where you’ll encounter the King’s elite Knights when they’re sent to retrieve the Spear of Destiny—a powerful and holy relic. Hidden within the forest, the Spear is protected by the flame-haired Robin Hood type character known as the Falcon of the Emerald Forest. One of the Knights, Sir Ronar LePeine is torn between obeying his King and his captivation of the beautiful Falcon. His struggle will soon overturn his world and set him in the midst of an epic spiritual battle. Intrigue and suspense, amazing character chemistry, and a dynamic message make this a must-read!
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Left at the Altar
The town of Two-Time, Texas, runs on two different times thanks to a long-running feud between the town’s two jewellers. The wedding between their children that was supposed to end the division and bring one time to Two-Time, only succeeds in dividing the town further when the groom leaves the bride standing at the altar and a breach of promise lawsuit is filed. The fancy Boston lawyer who is new to the town takes on the groom’s case but develops a fondness for the jilted bride. Can anyone win in this case? I had the time of my life reading this witty and fun story by Margaret Brownley!
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Two Bonus Books - Click on the book TITLES to read about them!


Love Everlasting

Giver of Wonders
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Below are 4 of my favorite NOVELLA'S and BOOK COLLECTIONS. Click on the picture to purchase or to read more about them! 

With This Ring?
Life and love can be vastly unpredictable which can add plenty of intrigue and sparks. This is exactly what transpires in these FOUR novella's of love and proposal's emerging from unforeseen circumstances!
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Lone Star Love
FIVE stories set deep in the heart of the lone star state—Texas. Each tale is a unique Texas treat on its own, highlighting the great state and bringing you adventure in spades as history comes to life! This amazing collection contains 3 novella's and 2 novels. 
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Love, Lies, & Typewriters
Taking place during WW2, 'Love, Lies, and Typewriters' delivers a captivating love triangle tale between Lucy, a war-hero cowboy, and a reporter. If she falls for the wrong man, or even the right man, will the headlines read 'happy ever after'? Thoroughly enjoyable and saturated with an authentic 1940's flavor!
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Moostletoe
Forest Ranger Eric Palmer's life was only all about moose until a friend from his teenage years arrives in Moose Creek and opens his heart to the possibility of love. You'll love meeting Matilda the troublesome moose in this small town of big dreams. A delightful Christmas tale!


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Two Bonus Novella's - Click on the picture to read more about it or to purchase!


On the Wings of a Whisper
Tea Shop Folly
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GIVEAWAY: I would love to give away a late Christmas present to one blessed commenter. Tell me which book you would like to read from my faves and an e-book copy of it will be yours if I draw your name! (International entrants welcome!) 
*Leave your email address for contact purposes should you win!



72 comments:

  1. That's a wonderful list of books, Aussie dear. :) It's good that I came over to look at your list, because I was reminded of MaryLu's book that I bought but haven't read yet. I have to move it to the top of my TBR pile. :)

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    1. Thanks dear Dutchy! :) Happy to be of assistance! Especially where a book of MaryLu's is concerned!! They are definitely not-to-be-missed books, so I'm glad that's rectified now! ;)

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  2. Her One and Only or Love Everlasting would be my choice. I love the authors stories. They are so encouraging.

    Sonnetta_jones(at)hotmail(dot)com

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    1. And is there any more encouraging than Julie's books, Sonnetta?! I don't think so! Great choice! :)

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    2. Aw, thanks SO much, Sonnetta, for your sweet comment and for reading my books in the first place! I hope you win, sweetie, so GOOD LUCK!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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    3. I could not wait to see if I won so I ordered your book on Friday. It is coming Tuesday💃🏾💃🏾💃🏾💃🏾

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    4. Sonnetta, I don't blame you one bit for ordering Julie's book already!! :) Think about another book you'd like to win in case! ;)

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  3. I have heard a lot of good things about: Love, Lies, and Typewriters - that would be one that I would like to read. Thanks for the chance

    Happy New Year!

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    1. Awesome choice, Connie! I hope you get to read this delightful novella by Heather Blanton, soon!!

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  4. Good list! I've enjoyed several on it, but I haven't had the opportunity to read Left at the Altar by Margaret Brownley. Happy New Year, and thanks for the giveaway! rachaeldalquist AT yahoo DOT com

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    1. Thanks Rachael! There was so much great reading over the year, but it is pretty impossible to go past Margaret Brownley's humorous and always fascinating stories! :)

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  5. I have read quite a few on your great list, NOELA, but I need two heads to get to the rest, especially with the 2017 books coming in. lol If only I could spend my days just reading books and popping bonbons. Sigh...

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    1. If only...!! ;) Pop the others on your TBR list anyway as you may just find a few extra hours in 2017 my friend! ;)

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  6. SWEET! Thanks SO MUCH, Noela! You are a jewel! Thanks for the great reviews and for including my book! :-)

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    1. Oh Melanie, I just absolutely LOVE your books!! They are an absolute must-read-as-soon-as-possible!! :) Keep writing, and I'll keep reading!! Hugs!

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  7. Wow! Great choices, Noela!! I have read and reviewed a lot of these awesome books!! I've also helped with beta reading on a few of these, too! There were so many wonderful books written this year, I wouldn't know where to choose! Uggh an undaunting task!

    The only one I haven't read is Sofi's Bridge. I love historical books!

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    1. Thank you, Regina!! They are pretty awesome aren't they?! ;) Oh Regina, I so hope you get to read Sofi's Bridge, whether you win or not. It's a truly memorable story that I know you will just love!!

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  8. So many good books to choose from! I have only read about half of them, but enjoyed the ones I have read so much! I pick Left at the Altar. It sounds like a lot of fun.

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    1. Sandra, Left at the Altar is SO much fun, so great choice!! Here's hoping! Btw, do we have your email addy in case you win?

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  9. Noella, I will not lie. The fact that I made your list twice put a pretzel knot in my throat. I am so honored. Look at the company you have put me in. I am speechless and humbled beyond words. Thank you! Thank you!

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    1. Heather, your books are AMAZING! And I'm sure all those other books are grateful to be in the company of YOUR books! :) Can't wait until they're made into movies!!

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  10. Wonderful list, Noela - thank you!! A couple books to add to my huge TBR list, numerous ones I've read, and others I already have ready to read or on my TBR list. Laughing at Diana's comment about having nothing to do but read and eat bonbons, but- oh, so true!! I wish so too!!

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    1. And aren't you just so glad Bonnie, that books don't add calories too!!! Lol, we'd all be in serious trouble if so! ;) Thanks, Bonnie, and happy reading into 2017!

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  11. What a great list, Noela! I havent read any of your book favs, but several of them are on my TBR list and now I've added some more goodies :) I would love to win 'Giver of Wonders' by Roseanna M. White! I have heard so many good things about this book. Thanks for your generousity in offering this giveaway! Wishing you God's richest blessings in this coming year, Noela!!!
    ~ Alison Boss

    nj(dot)bossman(at)gmail(dot)com

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    1. Aww thank you so much Alison, and I pray the same for you too!! I'm so glad to hear you enjoyed the list and have added some of these awesome books to your TBR list. 'Giver of Wonders' is AMAZING, so great choice. Here's hoping you get to read it soon in the new year!!

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  12. What a great list. I love the book "Saving the Marquise's granddaughter". I love Carrie Pagels. Thank you for the giveaway. mommystuck1 AT optonline DOT com

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    1. Tammy, thank you for your comment! Carrie is amazing isn't she?!! And a very talented writer to boot! If you win on this post Tammy, what e-book would you like to choose? I'm presuming you have Carrie's book already?

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    2. Awwwww! You are so sweet TAMMY CORDERY!!! I'm so glad you loved "Saving the Marquise's Granddaughter" and my other books! Love and hugs back!!!

      NOELA, I think you are amazing and talented!!! Sure going to miss you on the blog!!! But obedience to God's calling is preeminent!

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    3. Carrie, you are SO sweet, thank you!!! Really going to miss working with you on the blog too!! As I've said to you before, this is such a bittersweet time for me. But it helps knowing I am obeying God's calling. Love you!

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  13. Awww, I'm beyond words to see one of my collections in your list, Noela. Such an unexpected surprise. Thank you. I'll need to go check out some of the others you've listed.
    Happy New Year!

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    1. Oh I'm so glad you saw that Crystal!! That was an AMAZING collection!! :) Blessings and a very HAPPY NEW YEAR to you, too! Happy reading and writing in 2017 also!

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    2. Thanks so much.
      I'm so glad the collection was a blessing to you.:-)

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    3. It certainly was, and I loved that it introduced me to you as a new author, too!

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  14. Holy moly, you blessed my socks off, Noela! Thank you so much!! To have my books chosen by both you and Diana is such a treat!!! I don't know how to thank you for your encouragement and support through the years. Truly, you are a saint. God Bless!

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    1. You can thank us by continuing to write those INCREDIBLE stories!! :D Because they bless OUR socks off! And you do too! You are the sweetest MaryLu, thanks. I'd like to thank you for your inspiring blog posts too. Always so encouraging and motivating!!

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  15. What a wonderful list of fabulous books, Noela. I have read a few of them, but certainly must look for the others! I have read the first two in Heather Blanton's series, and certainly would love to read the third one. Thanks for being willing to share these books!
    bettimace at gmail dot com

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    1. You're very welcome, Betti, and I would love for you to be able to read the third in Heather's fabulous book series! All the best, and God bless you my friend. Thanks!

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  16. I would love to read the 'With this Ring' collection!

    pattymh2000(at)yahoo(dot)com

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    1. That's a fabulous collection with four brilliant authors, Patty! Here's hoping you get to enjoy it soon! :)

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  17. Great list, Noela! I've read Julie's, MaryLu's, Carrie's, and With this Ring is on my Kindle waiting. If I win, I would like Melanie Dickerson's The Beautiful Pretender. Thanks for your giveaway, Noela and best wishes to you in 2017. You will be missed. sigh

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    1. Ooh how I loved The Beautiful Pretender, Jackie! I'd love for you to be able to read it!! Jackie, I'm so going to miss you too. Thank you so much for your constant support and encouragement. People like you make the many hours we have put in worthwhile. Find me on Facebook!

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  18. What a special surprise!! Thank you for including our collection, Noela. I'm honored, and I know the others will be. I'm writing each of these titles down, and they're going in my TBR pile. Because you have such good taste in books. wink, wink. LOL! Thank you!

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    1. Haha Marcia, you know it! ;) It was my pleasure and an honor to include Lone Star Love. It is an outstanding collection of stories!! Absolutely LOVED your gem of a story 'Diamond Duo' from the collection... :)

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  19. I'm truly honored to have a book mentioned. It always gives me a little thrill to know all my hard work and slaving over just the right words truly was worth it in the end. I'm so glad you enjoyed the story. Thank you for reading. And for sharing! Big hugs!

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    1. Lynnette, it was such a thrill each time an episode of The Sonnets of Spice Isle was released!! I always love your writing but that series was just outstanding! Thank you SO MUCH for your hard work in producing this wonderful work that has blessed so many and opened our eyes up to this part of history. I will get to writing a review for it as soon as I can find time my friend!

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  20. Wow! What a list! So many wonderful titles I hope eventually I'll be able to read them all,have only read a couple so far! (Love Everlasting was a particular favorite) Thank you so much for this great list Noela and for the giveaway!! It's So hard to pick just one title,but since I can only pick one I'd like Saratoga Letters. lynnefeuerstein(at)aol(dot)com Have A Happy New Year!

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    1. Haha sorry for making it so hard, NOT! :D Excellent choice in Saratoga Letters, Lynne!! Here's hoping you get to read not only that one but all of these books! Though, I know how hard it can be with so many incredible books being released so often! Happy New Year!!

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  21. The Beautiful Pretender would be my choice!! I have just about every one of Melanie's books and would love to add this to my collection :-) Thank you for the chance Noela! And Happy (almost) New Year!!

    teamob4 (at) gmail (dot) com

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    1. A superb choice too, Trixi!! :-) I can only do e-books though because of the steep prices of postage from Australia. It's New Years eve here right now with just a couple hours to go before it the New Year begins! Best wishes for a happy New Year to you and also in winning Melanie's book! :)

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    2. No problem Noela! I have a few paperbacks and mostly Kindle copies of her books :-) While I prefer a real book, sometimes it's less expensive to buy the digital copy. So either way is fine :-) I'd course there are some books that I HAVE to have the real thuing, lol!

      Happy 2017 to you! My mom lives in New Zealand so she's already there too :-)

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    3. I know exactly what you mean Trixi! ;) There have been certain authors I have always HAD to have their paperback. BUT my problem these days is that I'm beginning to run out of room! :O A terrible dilemma (and first-world problem) to have!
      Thanks, and happy New Year to you and your mum in NZ!!

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  22. Hello my sweet friend. You picked some that sounds very good and sure they are if you say so. I would have to pick the Lone Star Love. Love Texas. Thanks. Wishing you a wonderful New Year 2017. ((Hugs)) Maxie > mac262@me.com <

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    1. Awesome Texas stories for an awesome Texas lady. Sounds perfect, Maxie! :) I love Texas too, and my wish is to one day visit there. Who knows, perhaps I can catch up with you as well as Marcia Gruver! That would be so cool!

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  23. Noela, I had so much fun reading your list and appreciate the many indie published titles you have chosen. I am consistently researching independently published titles, looking for that next great read. It's how I discovered two of your mentioned authors - Heather Blanton and Christine Lindsay. In fact, it's Sofi's Bridge by Christine Lindsay that I would love a copy of if by some chance my name were drawn. Thank you. tlhcoupon(at)hotmail(dot)com

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    1. Thank you Terrill, I love to give support to these authors and books and I'm so glad to hear you do too! Heather and Christine are incredible authors, and Sofi's Bridge was a top fave of mine this year. All the best!!

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  24. Thanks for sharing your list it has given some ideas for my own. I would enjoy Left at the altar or a Promise in Defiance. I don't have a way to leave this under my facebook account. My name is Debbie Peoples and my email is bebbiesue45@hotmail.com

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    1. That's awesome to hear, Debbie!! Thanks and all the best with your entry for those wonderful choices of books!!

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  25. I don't know what happened to the comment from my iPhone, NOELA! It has disappeared! Thank you SO MUCH for including both "Saving the Marquise's Granddaughter" AND Tea Shop Folly on your list!!! I feel so blessed!!! What an honor to have books on the same list as some of my very favorite authors, such talented ladies!!! Hugs and love!!!

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    1. It's an honor to include your wonderful books dear Carrie!! Hugs and much love!!

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  26. NOELA!!! Thank you SOOO much for including Love Everlasting on the list, my friend -- that blesses me more than I can say!! And hopefully you have received the signed bookplate by now (requested by Bonnie), but if you haven't -- it's coming!!

    You have some new authors for me on your list, so I need to get busy and check them out. I know if YOU love them, I will love them, too, so thank you for the recommendations!

    I wish you and yours a happy, healthy, and holy New Year, my sweet friend!

    Hugs and more hugs,
    Julie

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    1. I've received your wonderful book from our dear mutual friend and look forward to receiving the signed bookplate, too! Thanks so much for taking the time to do that Julie, I know it's been a hectic time for you. MUCH love and blessings are wished your way for a wonderful 2017!! Happy reading and especially WRITING! ;)

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  27. NOELA, this list is a wonderful way to end 2016. I enjoyed Carrie Pagels and Becky Wade's books.

    Several on your list are new-to-me authors. Thank you for the introduction. *wink*

    I would love to read MaryLu Tyndall's She Walks in Power.

    May 2017 be filled with His Presence, Shalom and Blessings.

    (((((HUGS))))))
    Caryl

    psalm103and138 at gmail dot com

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    1. Very happy to have introduced you Caryl! I hope you enjoy a lasting friendship and lots of great reading ahead with these wonderful authors! :) I so hope you get to read MaryLu's incredible book, too!!! Blessings and peace upon your 2017!

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  28. Noela, THANK YOU so much for including Left at the Altar on your list of favorites. What a wonderful way to end the year. I can't tell you how touched I am. What a blessing you are to all who know you. Wishing you and your family a New Year filled with God's blessings.
    Hugs and kisses, Margaret

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    1. Margaret, it was my utmost pleasure to include Left at the Altar on my list of favorite books! This one, and actually all your stories, make me smile, and entertain and inspire me thoroughly. Not to mention how much I love the fascinating facts you include in your books! They have it all. :-) Thank you for your lovely sentiments, my friend, and I pray many blessings on 2017 for you! Hugs and love!

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  29. Happy New Year, Noela! Wishing you a year filled with love, happiness, health, and joy. What a great collection of books! If I win, I'd like A Lady Unrivaled by Roseanna M. White. alexaverde7 (at) gmail (dot) com.

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    1. Alexa! Happy new year my friend, I pray you have a wonderful new year replete with blessings!! :) You will absolutely love Roseanna's book, Alexa, so I'm wishing you all the best with your entry!

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  30. I absolutely love Roseanna M. White and would love to have book #3 in the Ladies series. The other two were terrific reads. Thanks for the chance. paulams49@sbcglobal.net

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    1. Oh you will love so book #3 too, Paula! It truly is am amazing series!! Blessings!

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    2. Haha sorry about the typo's there, Paula. My son was totally distracting me! :D

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  31. Whooohooo, I made it on to Noela's favorite list again. I count this as a huge honor. Love you, love you, love you, Noela. Thank you. And to be on the same list as so many of my favorites.

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    1. Love you too, Christine!! And I loved Sofi's Bridge, too! :)

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