Lift Your Spirits with "Merry & Bright" Audiobook by Debbie Macomber

Lift Your Spirits!!!

Merry & Bright by Debbie Macomber -- Audiobook Review by Carrie Fancett Pagels

Five Stars! *****
I listened to this novel as an Audible.com download. I may listen to it again before Christmas. This was a great listen. The narrator did a super job bringing Debbie Macomber's excellent story to life. The heroine, Merry, is very sympathetic. Her mom has serious health problems, her father is on the road a lot for his job, and she has a younger brother with a disability. Merry has taken a break from her studies (given her age in her mid-twenties I assume she was working on her graduate studies but I didn't hear where it was specified) and she is working temporarily at a large company. She's doing a great job but with her generous spirit and kind ways, and her need to be frugal, Merry frequently runs into issues with her boss.

A lot of stories leave me with feeling of loss as I consider all the trials the characters have been through. I mostly listen to historical romance. But this contemporary romance left me feeling very upbeat, uplifted by the positive story. It's a lot like a Hallmark movie and would make an excellent one. I wouldn't be at all surprised if that happens.

This is a clean read with some mild faith elements. If you're put off by the online dating premise, don't be--the hero and heroine end up there by a few twists and Macomber has her characters realistically deal with the potential pitfalls of going that route for romance. You'll be caught up in the story before you can even say, "Merry and Bright!"

Highly recommend!

Here's the blurb from Audible:
Merry Knight is pretty busy these days. She's taking care of her family, baking cookies, decorating for the holidays, and hoping to stay out of the crosshairs of her stressed and by-the-book boss at the consulting firm where she temps. Her own social life is the last thing she has in mind, much less a man. Without her knowledge, Merry's well-meaning mom and brother create an online dating profile for her - minus her photo - and the matches start rolling in. Initially, Merry is incredulous, but she reluctantly decides to give it a whirl. 

Soon, Merry finds herself chatting with a charming stranger, a man with similar interests and an unmistakably kind soul. Their online exchanges become the brightest part of her day. But meeting face-to-face is altogether different, and her special friend is the last person Merry expects - or desires. Still, sometimes hearts can see what our eyes cannot. In this satisfying seasonal tale, unanticipated love is only a click away.

Just A Few Of Darlene Franklin's Bestsellers!

This week on OWG we are featuring award-winning author and speaker, Darlene Franklin, whose many book genres range from westerns, contemporary romance, suspense, Christian historical fiction, and a non-fiction devotional entitled It Is Well With My Soul, which was inspired from the lyrics of the beloved hymn by Horatio G. Staffords. Please make sure to read Darlene's powerfully moving interview with Carrie Fancett Pagels which was featured at the beginning of the week. You will be moved and blessed by it, I assure you!

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The Texas Brides Collection

Barbour Publishing, 2013

Enjoy the rich history of Texas penned by an exclusive selection of Christian fiction authors—including DiAnn Mills and Kathleen Y’Barbo. This collection of nine romances brings together the lawful, the lawless, and the lonely in the Lone Star State. Watch as three Texas Rangers turn from chasing outlaws to courting women who are determined to remain independent. Experience the trials six outlaws have as they turn into respectable citizens and seek to settle down with a spouse to love.

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Golden Dreams by Darlene Franklin

Love Inspired Heartsong, Sept. 2013

Winnine Tuttle dreams about skating With hometown champion Frank Sawtelle as her coach, she has a real chance to compete in the world's foremost skating competition. But her siblings want her helping on the farm-not wasting time on the ice. And as her feelings for Frank turn to love, she wonders if he could ever feel the same.

Still bitter over the injury that shattered his competitive hopes, coaching Winnie resurrects Frank's career. But as his love for her grows, a romance could jeopardize her success. While he keeps his feelings to himself, he yearns for a future with Winnie. One more precious than gold.

This book available through Amazon and CBD in Sept. 2013.

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It Is Well With My Soul by Darlene Franklin
Barbour Publishing, 2013

Whether you're in the midst of a life-changing tragedy or simply in need of a reminder of God's presence, here's reassuring of comfort and inspiration for your soul. Based on the beloved hymn, these heartfelt devotions, prayers, quotes, and Bible promises reveal the blessings, joy, and peace that every heart truly desires.

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Calico Brides by Darlene Franklin

Barbour, 2013

Determined to sow good deeds into the lives of needy people, the four youngest members of the 1876 Calico, Kansas, sewing circle reap romance. Gladys Polson, designing to aid a crotchety widower, falls for a stranger. Annie Bliss, knitting for soldiers, has a fort chaplain on pins and needles. Birdy Landry, sewing dresses for saloon girls looking for a new life, has her feathers ruffled by a beneficent shopkeeper. Schoolteacher Ruth Fairfield is about to teach a new guardian a few lessons in life and love. Will God stitch forever-after romances into the lives of these four women?

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Christmas At Barncastle Inn

Barbour Publishing, 2013

You can experience Christmas during the time period of your choice-if you rent the entire Barncastle Inn of Vermont for the whole week of Christmas. When they first decided to do this, Jayne Barncastle is determined to prove to her parents it will work. Will she overlook her own chance for romance in the process? Will a World War II era "White Christmas" recreate a scene of forgiveness for an embittered couple? Can a pirate's lair be the place of fun-filled reunion for old lovers? When coworkers assist in recreating the first Christmas for the inn, will they discover romance?

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The New England Romance Collection

Barbour, Feb. 2014

New England is not just colorful in autumn but throughout the history of its states—including Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont. Through the trials and triumphs of the early years of American history, to the turbulent 1930s, enjoy five stories laced with history, faith, and romance. Will these couples find a place to call home among the northeastern states?

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Hidden Dreams by Darlene Franklin

Love Inspired Heartsong, 2013

Her father's been murdered, and now the mob's after her, too. Leaving New York City behind is the only way to stay alive. Yet Mary Anne Lamont finds herself stuck in Maple Notch, Vermont, when her car crashes straight into Wallace Tuttle's truck. Wallace and his family offer her warmth and welcome, no questions asked. But she doesn't dare give them her real name-not without risking their safety too.

At first, Wallace chides himself for being distracted by the glamorous flapper. Mary Anne certainly doesn't fit his image of a future wife. But underneath the bleached bob and big-city ways is a courageous, caring woman. When the danger she's been running from draws close, Wallace must risk everything to prove his faith in Mary Anne, in God's plan, and the dreams they've come to share.

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 A Ranger's Trail #4 by Darlene Franklin

River North Publishing, 2012 

Mason County, Texas, is a violent place in 1875! While ranger Buck Morgan wants to stop the bloody war among rustlers, ranchers, and outlaws, Leta Derrick seeks vengeance on the men who killed her husband, a suspected cattle thief. Can Buck and Leta strike an accord that leads to more than just peace?

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The above books may be purchased through Amazon, CBD, DeeperShopping, and your local bookstore.

Giveaway: Leave an encouraging comment for Darlene for a chance to win one of her great books!

Marian Baay Reviews Once Upon A Prince By Rachel Hauck

Once Upon A Prince

Once Upon A Prince

By Rachel Hauck

Zondervan, 2013

Reviewed by Marian Baay

~5 stars~*****

After Susanna Truitt’s boyfriend, Adam, told her he’d found “the right ring but not the right girl”, twelve years of waiting and living by ‘the plan’ collapses.

Shortly thereafter Susanna meets this handsome stranger, Nate Kenneth, to whom she unburdens her heart, while he is fixing her car.

Nathaniel is on his last carefree vacation on St. Simons Island. His father is the king of Brighton Kingdom, and severely ill. Nathaniel is the crown prince and his father has told him he will be king within the year. After his first meeting with Susanna he is soon going to meet her again and help her to get to the hospital to see her father.

With her father in the hospital, the family restaurant needs extra help. Nate is offering an extra hand and is obviously enjoying cleaning the dishes, scrubbing the bathroom, and taking out the garbage. When one day he leaves a Brightonian coin with his face on it, Susanna finds out he is a prince.

Their next meeting is a bit awkward but they stay friends anyway. When feelings run deeper, Nathaniel knows he must tell Susanna that he—as crown prince—is not allowed to marry a foreigner; back home he is expected to propose to a woman he doesn’t love. When Nathaniel is explaining to Susanna why he can’t marry her, he gets a phone call and learns that his father has died. He leaves immediately and Susanna doesn’t hear from him again.

Both their lives go on and Susanna and Nathaniel battle questions about God’s plan for their lives. They must learn to completely surrender themselves to God—learn to fully trust Him.

Then 5 months later Susanna receives an invitation for the coronation of King Nathaniel in Brighton…

Together with her younger sister, Susanna travels to Brighton Kingdom. She has no idea who has invited her or if she will get a chance to speak to Nathaniel in private. Susanna and her sister will be living a fairytale during their stay.

Is there a chance to love for Nathaniel and Susanna, despite the odds?

I enjoyed this story for several reasons; the writing style is very pleasant, the characters are oh so lovely, and I read this book just before the coronation of our Dutch King—so I really was in the mood for it and had twice as much fun reading it.

Nicely done, Rachel! 

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GIVEAWAY: A book by Rachel Hauck of your choice! Answer the question to be entered in the contest. And don't forget to leave your email address if we don't know you.

QUESTION: I think most of us have never been to the coronation of a king or queen, but I suppose we all have watched a coronation or royal wedding on TV once. Whose coronation or royal wedding have you watched?

Interview with Rachel Hauck--Overcoming Anxiety by Carrie Fancett Pagels

Rachel Hauck

RachelHauck is the author of Once Upon A Prince and of RITA nominated The Wedding Dress and RITA nominated Love Starts with Elle. She is the author of more than 16 books.

Rachel, welcome to Overcoming With God.  We appreciate your willingness to share your testimony of overcoming with our readers. 

Would you tell us about the most difficult thing in your life you have had to overcome, with God’s help?

RH: First, thank you for having me on OWG. I am an overcomer. In my late teens, then again in my mid-20’s I battled sudden anxiety and panic. There wasn’t a lot of talk in those days of “panic attacks” but they would hit me out of the blue and last for a few seconds, but over time, the fear of them happening or getting worse lingered.

That fear was worse than the actual “event.”

I could actually write a book about my experience and how the Lord met me. Let me just affirm and confirm, prayer and the Word work! We can overcome anything in Him.

My battle was a cocktail of hormones, open doors to the enemy, and maybe a bit of inheritance from my family. Either way, I was determined to win. I had to take up my cross daily. I had a scripture verse for fear, for peace, for love, for overcoming, for every errant thought.

I believed God’s Word was true and it would deliver me and heal me.

He is true to His Word.

I walk in peace and joy. The unfounded fears and panic are no longer a part of my life. I truly understand “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

For anyone struggling emotionally or spiritually, devour God’s Word. Make it your “bread and water. It will give you life. Change you in ways you cannot imagine.

Disability friendliness: Is this latest release available in audio format or do you have any other works available on audio?  Do your e-books have audio capability? Do you have any in large print?

RH: I have no control over the audio versions or audio capability. I would love for Once Upon a Prince to be released in audio format. Hopefully it will soon. But I do believe e-readers have audio capability and this book will be released in e-book. So, check your Kindle or Nook for reading aloud features.

(Note: Rachel's "The Wedding Dress" and three books with Sara Evans are available on audible.com.)

In this latest work, do you have any topics useful for bibliotherapy, or therapeutic influence through reading about a disorder or situation?

RH: Most of my stories are about the love of the Lord and His passion for us, or His divine plan for us. In Once Upon A Prince, we meet Susanna who thought she knew what her life was going to be – she had a plan – but when her boyfriend breaks up with her instead of proposing, she is confused and lost.

Her journey is about surrendering completely. I think for anyone struggling we find ourselves battling the desire to cling to what we know – even if it’s negative – and leaping out in faith and trusting God.

It’s hard to trust a God we don’t know well or actually see. But it’s actually in that place God begins to meet us.

Susanna must face the same choice. Keep doing things her way or leap out in faith and believe God.

Plus, she meets a prince. Sigh… It’s an encouraging story!

Thank you Rachel for agreeing to answer these questions.  Have a blessed day and keep on writing!!

RH: Thank you for having me!

Use this link to view all of Rachel's books with links to purchase (click here.)

GIVEAWAY:  We are giving away a book of Rachel's--winner's choice of book and choice of format, this week.  Answer the question and leave your email address to enter.  Q: Have you ever had to deal with severe anxiety?  How did God help you cope?

Diana Flowers Reviews A Love Surrendered by Julie Lessman

A Love Surrendered

A Love Surrendered 

by Julie Lessman

(Revell, 2012)

Reviewed by Diana Flowers

5 stars~*****

Another Gem by Julie!

In A Love Surrendered, a tale of unrequited love, regrets, forbidden passions, and spiritual awakening, Julie Lessman concludes her two series of the unforgettable O'Connor family.

Annie Kennedy has moved to Boston, Massachusetts, with her little sister Glory, to stay with her aunt after the death of her parents. With the advent of her eighteenth birthday, Annie begins to feel a restlessness, and begins sneaking out at night to hang out with the wrong crowd at Ocean Pier, Boston's hot spot, and meets Steven O'Connor, a prohibition agent.

Steven immediately steps into the role of protector to the lovely, and innocent Annie, unaware that she is the younger sister of Maggie Kennedy, a woman he had fallen in love with several years before. Guilt surrounds Steven like a cloak, as he remembers the illicit relationship he had had with Annie's sister, and is determined to protect her innocence from men such as himself.

As Annie finds herself falling in love with and receiving mixed signals from Steven, will she find her way back to the Lord, and be able to maintain her integrity? And what will happen to the budding romance should Steven find out she is Maggie's sister? As someone unexpectedly appears in all of their lives, what secrets erupt that threaten to destroy Steven, Annie's, and even Glory's newfound happiness?...and will he ever be able to surrender his guilt of the past to God?

Julie Lessman has done it again! This was a beautiful tale of family and unconditional love; with heart stirring, raw emotions, twists and turns, and interlaced with the splashes of humor that Ms. Lessman is so well known for. A surprise twist at the end made for a perfect conclusion to this fabulous series, as I tearfully said goodbye to the beloved O'Connor family. With a strong spiritual thread of God's love and redemption throughout, you don't want to miss out on this one-possibly my favorite of all of Julie Lessman's books. 

Nicely done, Julie! 

I received a copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for my honest opinion. 

Julie Lessman's books can be purchased on CBD, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Lifeway, and other book stores.

GIVEAWAY: Leave a comment and your email to be entered in this week's contests. Three drawings will be done this week for all the reviews, with the last one late Saturday, your choice of Julie's books and choice of format*. Void where prohibited by law. 

*International winners will only receive the book in ebook format, not as a paperback.

Diana Flowers Reviews Tidewater Inn by Colleen Coble

Tidewater Inn 
by Colleen Coble

4.5 stars~

Seaside Suspense!!

In Tidewater Inn, Colleen Coble has woven a captivating, suspense filled novel that takes place in the Outer Banks on Hope Beach---an island replete with fishing boats, charming houses, salty sea air, and the sound of the waves rolling onto the shore. Libby and her partner, Nicole, restore historical buildings in Virginia Beach, and Nicole finds herself on Hope Beach investigating the idea of restoring the downtown area. When she becomes a victim of a kidnapping, Libby races to the island to search for her friend, enlisting the aid of Alec Bourne, handsome captain of the Coast Guard.

Once there, Libby finds out not only that her deceased father has left her Tidewater Inn, but that she has half-siblings there as well...who are incensed that Libby (whom they previously didn't know even existed), is to inherit the inn. Danger and distrust lurk in every nook and cranny of the island as Libby becomes a prime suspect of Nicole's kidnapping, and someone seeks to drown her in the vast ocean waters.

Is Nicole still alive, and is someone trying to get rid of Libby to obtain Tidewater Inn? Is there any hope of Libby and her siblings ever reconciling?...and does Alec believe Libby had nothing to do with her friend's disappearance. Will Libby decide to sell Tidewater Inn since it would be too expensive to renovate?...and what of her growing feelings for Alec should she decide to do so?

Colleen Coble is simply a master storyteller. Her use of imagery in the seaside setting in this novel immediately drew me in; her storyline kept me there! Full of suspense, romance, compelling and lovable characters, and a spiritual thread throughout---this one will keep you flipping those pages 'til the climactic conclusion! Thank you for the exciting beach vacation I've needed for so long, Colleen Coble! :)


I received a copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for my honest opinion.


Colleen's books can be found on Amazon, CBD and other bookstores.


GIVEAWAY: Leave a comment and your email to be entered in this week's contest. Drawing will be late Saturday, your choice of Colleen's books, choice of format*. Void where prohibited by law. * International winners will only receive the book in ebook format, not as a paperback.

Powerline by Deborah Kinnard reviewed by Marian Baay

POWERLINE by Deborah Kinnard

(Desert Breeze Publishing, Inc. 2011)

Reviewed by Marian Baay

4 stars ****

Emotional and sweet romance

Cassie is an ER nurse, a true believer and a volunteer at Powerline. One night a man calls to talk about his problems. His wife died 6 months ago and he doesn't want to live anymore. Cassie reminds him that God is in control of life and dead. The man promised not to hurt himself that night. Cassie is pretty shaken up after the phone call.

A little time later she's working in the ER when an older lady with a stroke comes in. Her neighbour has come with her and Cassie recognizes the man's voice from the phone call. He's the man who called himself Jeff. She panics, because she's not supposed to have contact with anyone who called Powerline for help. When the man finally recognizes her voice too, she doesn't know what to do. She tries to remain distant, but the man wants to thank her and persists to buy her an icecream.

It's clear there's attraction between Cassie and Jeff. Cassie is afraid to love, but Jeff is convinced his love for Cassie comes from the Lord. Cassie reminds him he just lost his wife and can't be thinking about something serious right now. Against all odds they befriend each other and soon find themselves very much in love. But when a train accident happens things suddenly change for Cassie. She's confused and needs to search herself for answers, she needs to learn to trust again.

This story contained the most romance I have seen in a book in a long time. The love between Jeff and Cassie is sweet—it seems rushed, but when the Lord is at work anything can happen. The story also deals with overcoming loss and grief and to learn to trust God completely.

This book was Deb Kinnard's debut novel and I think it was nicely done!

Deborah Kinnard's books can be purchased on Amazon, CBD and other book stores.

GIVEAWAY: Leave a comment and your email to be entered in this week's contest. Drawing will be late Saturday. Your choice of Deb's book and choice of format.

Audiobook review of “The Homecoming” by Dan Walsh

“The Homecoming” 

by Dan Walsh

(Revell, 2010)

I listened to this book as a download through audible.com where I have a platinum membership.  Like I said about “The Unfinished Gift” I consider these books as nostalgic fiction, i.e., not set long enough ago to be a historical nor recently enough to be a contemporary.  This second book in the series is a romance.  I believe I would have benefitted from having read the first book prior to listening to this one. 

WWII pilot, Shawn Collins, whose wife just died, is downed behind enemy lines. The story of his escape is a great start to the book. His son, Patrick, is stateside with his grandfather, Ian Collins.  While Shawn was struggling to survive, his father had his own epiphany and is working hard to provide a stable home for his grandson.

Meanwhile social worker, Katherine Townsend,  who is emotionally involved with Patrick, loses her job.  The Collinses need her help. The romance between Katherine and Shawn is handled very tastefully.  A tiny bit disconcerting to read this from a man’s perspective.

A very nice audiobook.  It is an easy listen. The plot struck me as rather simplistic.  It was still very well done. I kept thinking that perhaps the author, Dan Walsh, was deliberately keeping the wording simple to add to the nostalgic tone. But that very wondering pulled me from the story.  I think that is a fine balance to keep.  Tension in the story was good and the characters very engaging.  If I had listened to the first book prior, I would also not have wondered so much about what Katherine looked like, etc. 

I loved the whole twist about the USO tour--that was so neat!  The train scenes were awesome and I enjoyed the tension built in because Shawn's wife has died, he has gotten free, and now the military "thanks" him by sending him away from his family. Also super job with incorporating the romantic rival and making it believable. Very interesting reading a romance from a man's viewpoint but sometimes I just wanted Shawn to get a clue about Katherine.   Dan did a nice job of balancing out the grieving by the hero over his wife before allowing him to become emotionally involved with the heroine. 


There are so few Christian audiobooks out there and I am so glad I found this one. Very enjoyable.


Giveaway: Last day to leave a comment to be entered in the Dan Walsh giveaway. This week we are offering an ebook or paperback, maybe even CD, to our winner.  

Audiobook review of Kelly’s Long's Sarah’s Garden

Review of Kelly Long's Sarah’s Garden
A Patch of Heaven Novel 
(Thomas Nelson, 2010)

I listened to this book as a download through audible.com. 


This was a beautiful story, well-written, and a solid romance.  Sarah King loves her garden. She does not fit in well with the other women in the community in that she is not a quilter. While a neighbor has a romantic interest in her, she does not return his sentiments. When she finds herself falling in love with a physician, Grant Williams,  who is not Amish she questions what she should do. Grant's parents have passed away and he is seeking a new beginning.


This was my second listen for Kelly Long’s books and again I was impressed by the freshness in her writing and the passion in the romance.  This is the first book in the series. 

These characters are portrayed as real people with genuine emotions rather than the cookie cutter images seen in some of the Amish books.  Kelly's books are full of believable passion. We had a discussion at Colonial Quills this week comparing her Amish writing to that of Julie Lessman's. Edgy Amish was a term used.


Great set up in this book for the next in the series which I also loved! That review is up tomorrow.

Well done, Kelly!  


Almost all of Kelly's books are available in multiple formats. Kelly's books can be purchased on Amazon, CBD, and other book stores.


GIVEAWAY:  Leave a comment and your email to be entered in this week’s contest.  Drawing will be late Saturday.  Your choice of Kelly Long’s books, choice of format.