Kroosreads and Reviews

  Kroosreadsandreviews: This series has been so much fun to read! I enjoyed reading more about the retired couple and their new venture into farming. It was fun to see them meddle in relationships, especially sending over baked goods. The relationship and dynamic between Winter and Daisy was interesting but also made me sad. Book Blurb: Early retirement never sounded so good to Mervin and Ruthie Miller. After a lifetime in Millersburg, where Mervin worked at a furniture and shed factory and Ruthie helped out at a fabric store, they have exciting plans: They’re going to become “Amish Gentlemen Farmers.” That means buying a 30-acre, ramshackle farm, and all that comes with it—no matter what their grown children, friends, and aching muscles think . . . Aaron Miller is worried about his parents, but there’s little he can do now that he lives in Kentucky and has a baby on the way. Then his childhood best friend, Kyle Burkholder, makes a heaven-sent offer: he’ll move in with Aaron’s pare...

  Kroosreadsandreviews: This was such a new and unexpected plot line that was so interesting.  The Amish are quick to marry after the death of their spouse and for this story to have a club just for widows was so enthralling.   Leanna was such a remarkable woman who looked out for the needs of others.  She was a little hesitant and sometimes changed her mind but she had such great character traits! Evan was also a little indecisive but he was such a great father to his four boys.  I loved the relationships that he had with them.  Jeremy, in particular, while young, was quick to offer sound advice! There were also lots of other great characters--Bumble, Becca, Doreen and so many more. Book Blurb: Leanna Mast never imagined she'd be a widow at forty-one, but it seems God had other plans. After mourning her husband for a year, she realizes it's time to start living again. But her community expects her to remarry, and after living on her own, she's not eag...

  Kroosreadsandreviews: What a powerful story filled with faith, wisdom, struggles and so much more! It was hard at times to watch Lizzy as she travelled throughout this book.  She had to learn so many tough lessons and at such high costs.  Alton was a wise friend who did his best to share truth with Lizzy while attempting to be kind to her. The Wiley's were an interesting couple and was fascinating to learn about their part in the story. Book Blurb: In the shadowed hollers of the early-twentieth-century Appalachian Mountains, Lizzy Haney is on the run. She's been falsely accused of murder and is desperate to reunite with her brother, River, whose unforgettable green eyes haunt her. The secret in her past is a stinging wound, but it motivates her toward her goal: freedom. But nine-year-old River, sent through the US Post Office to their late mother's friend in Knoxville, never arrived. Lizzy's dream of finding him and starting a new life away from their alcoholic and ab...

  Kroosreadsandreviews: Another sweet story by these authors.   I enjoyed the focus of this book was people on the spectrum and how best to support them.  Micah and Macie were my favorite characters throughout the story. I also enjoyed Christian's character.  He cares deeply about those around him and gave of his time freely.   Book Blurb: A widowed mother, Amelia Miller never thought of finding love again—until she meets Christian Yoder while on a sisters’ trip to Ohio. When Christian suddenly has the opportunity to move to Indiana near Amelia, what started as a spark grows to a flame. . .but there are complications. Amelia’s son, who is on the autism spectrum, doesn’t like the new man who has been coming around, and he often acts out in tantrums. Amelia’s love for her son is her priority, so romance may have to be sacrificed. Christian, though, is determined to find a connection with the boy.

  Kroosreadsandreviews: I am a big fan of this author and her legal suspense novels. This novel is an intense, fast moving tale of Chloe, who is embarking on a legal suit against her gymnast coach.  She is a young lady that is struggling with the abuse that she endured but has a tenacity and resilience that longs to protect others.   Dare is a slightly older law student who is trying to give wholeheartedly to his studies but is assigned to Chloe's case.   This is where the reader comes into learning about the past and how it changes the present. The story will capture you and will surprise you as the web of deception becomes clearer.   Book Blurb: When Chloe Ainsworth's older sister reappears after fourteen years, she brings with her the news that Chloe's abuser is back in town. Chloe is a coach at her childhood gym and fiercely protective of her young gymnasts. She won't allow them to suffer the way she did, but she's desperate for an ally—one wh...

  Kroosreadsandreviews: This author's writing style is so much fun.  It's filled with wit and fun characters who are off on adventures learning about themselves and those around them! I wanted to be on the cruise with the family as they prepare for Ashley's wedding.  I can imagine hanging out with Grandma Dodie and her spunky personality.   Jojo was someone I was rooting for throughout the book.  She tried so hard to move on and find her happiness.  Of course, Cooper was a favorite.   I loved how he did everything he could to support Jo. Book Blurb: After a lifetime of being bad at love, JoJo Burton vows to solve her intimacy issues once and for all at her sister’s destination wedding on a cruise ship. Armed with pop psychology, she diagnoses herself with a fixation on the neighborhood guy who was her first crush and first kiss (and who just happens to be a newly-divorced wedding guest). Determined to woo him for closure, she ropes in her chi...

  Kroosreadsandreviews: This book made me long for fall and all of the wonderful things that come along with it--apples, pumpkins, hayrides, etc. Jake and Emily were fun characters.  Jake frustrated me a little bit because he didn't seem to have a lot of courage.  Emily was so resilient and had a way with people to help them overcome obstacles.  I enjoyed how they both encouraged each other and brought out the best in each other! It is a sweet story about a family trying to save their legacy and two adults navigating their relationship! Book blurb: Artist Emily Carmichael has always considered Splendid Lake her home, but she never imagined she would ever return. However, when she learns her childhood best friend, Jake Hughes, is struggling to save the beloved Hughes Family Orchard, she doesn't hesitate to pack her bags and head back to the North Carolina mountains--even if it means battling a corporate giant and resisting the temptation of too many candy apples. For ...

  Kroosreadsandreviews: This book will captivate you with the highs and lows of recently divorced, Claire.   I was left feeling all of the emotions as I read her story--joy, sadness, empathy, etc. The author has such a great way of storytelling that will leave you giggling but also endeared to the characters. Miles has to be the most favorite character as he is just the sweetest.   Claire has been down in the dumps but is now fighting to get herself out of the pit.  There are so many other great characters--Lennon, Minnie, Zoey and the list could go on. The author definitely nailed it on this one! Book Blurb: After a painfully public discovery shatters her marriage, along with her picture-perfect, country club life, Claire finds herself suddenly single and faced with a blank page for a future. On that page she writes a simple list that reads like equal parts dare and daydream--Move to a new city. Make a real friend. Get a job I love--and she vows to accompl...

Kroosreadsandreviews: I'm so sad to see this series come to an end!  The time at the Sanctuary has been so interesting, minus all of the animal attacks.  I can almost imagine being at the refuge and the majesty of the animals and the surroundings. The characters in this story have been filled with such admirable traits.  It's hard to pick my favorites but Blake, Paradise, Jenna, Isaac and Levi were definitely favorites.  The addition of Drew in this book was so sweet, especially his relationship with Paradise. The story left me guessing as to who was involved all the way to the end.    Book Blurb: Just as wildlife veterinarian Paradise Alden begins to envision a future with Blake Lawson, the ghosts of her past return with a vengeance. The murder of her parents has shadowed her for fifteen years, but a new threat brings the cold case into the terrifying present. A trained leopard--a chilling embodiment of Paradise's deepest fears--is now stalking her. Haunte...

  Kroosreadsandreview: This book was smoking and it wasn't just from gunpowder but also from the sparks from the main characters.   My favorite character was gran, she was hilarious and kept Ben on his toes.   I would love to be a part of her pistols and pearls group ;).  Ben/Craig and Cybil are quite the pair.  The sparks and pranks between them was epic.  Kentucky Fried made multiple appearances much to the dismay of the characters.   I got a little confused about some of those involved with the criminal activity.   This book will keep your attention with the suspense and the sparks.   Book Blurb: Cybil Langford has spent years hiding behind her polished, professional facade as the executive assistant to a powerful real estate mogul, where she's perfectly positioned to collect intel on her boss's criminal network. But when her mission leads her into the path of Lorenzo Ramirez--a ruthless crime boss with deadly plan...

  Kroosreadsandreviews: #culinaryadventures #bashamfifteennotjustforfreshmen #enemytolover #hashtagsandsocialmedia #lovelylucy #fetchingfinn  #droolingisntjustforthefood #communityconnections #neitherteanorcoffee I'm not as creative as the author with my hashtags but this was such a fun book.  The social media conversation at the beginning of each chapter was my favorite.  The characters melded so well with each other--Finn, Daphne and Lucy were so memorable.  I loved how the community came together throughout the book with love, humor and support.  The book made me want to get in the kitchen and cook but I may have gained some weight just from reading this book! Book Blurb: In the charming mountain town of Wisteria, North Carolina, Daphne Austen clings to tradition like cream to a scone. She's built her life--and her late grandmother's tearoom, Tea Thyme--around all things English: delicate china, Jane Austen novels, and the comforting predictability of ro...

  Kroosreadsandreviews: What a powerful story of faith, love, hope and family!! I could see in the beginning where the story might be headed but it didn't take away my joy in the journey.   I absolutely adore Hester and Scotty and their relationship.  The relationship may have been unconventional but they cared so much for each other and those in their path. Callum was trying so hard to be a good dad and manage all of the expectations on him.  His wisdom and grace throughout was touching.   I saved the best part for last!   THE KIDS!  Gosh they were so much fun to watch and see their story unfold.  Despite the hard times they experienced, they were of such joy and excitement. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own. What it's about: The life of Hester Haak, a widow with no children of her own, takes an unexpected turn when she opens her Kansas home to children from the bustling streets of New York ...

  Kroosreadsandreviews: I do not read non fiction books but this title caught my attention and I'm so glad I read it. Each chapter is filled with personal stories from the author on how anger impacts her family. She consistently added in Scripture to support her ideas throughout the book. I loved how there was humor and a healthy mix of sharing her own foibles in parenting. One of my favorite parts was at the end of each chapter when the author included a cooling prayer. The reader will love the mix of personal stories, Scripture and sound advice that is woven throughout the book. I was given a complimentary arc of the book. The opinions are my own. What it's about: Lead with love when your last nerve is shot. You want: a peaceful home where you model self-control. You have: regrettable reactions when the kids baptize the cat. Your children, whom you dearly love and usually like, are bickering upstairs, baiting each other across the invisible line on the back seat, or causing t...

  Kroosreadsandreviews: This book will keep you on the edge of your seat and away from the swamp for a long time!! Heath and Laurel seem content to be alone until they meet in the swamp.  From there, the trouble begins and keeps going. The addition of Piper in the story was delightful.   Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc.   The opinions are my own. What it's about: Laurel Bell’s first day as a wildlife photography ranger takes a treacherous turn when she is nearly drowned by a masked assassin. Her witness protection cover has been blown, and she knows it’s only a matter of time before her attacker returns to finish the job. Her only chance at survival is police sergeant Heath Calhoun, who will do anything to deliver Laurel to her marshal handler. But when Heath’s young daughter is taken hostage, the stakes are raised, and now they must race to outsmart the powerful enemies who will stop at nothing to exact their revenge…

  Kroosreadsandreviews: What a fascinating story! I loved that the story was told from three different points of view and in the past and present day.    The reader will cheer with the highs of the story and scream in frustration at the lows in the story. I loved how each of the three women had extremely difficult circumstances that they tried to rise above.  I also enjoyed how Hannah and Kate had each other and Freida and Ashley had each other for support.   The struggles that each of the main characters had with their faith amidst the trials was intriguing to me as well.   Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc.  The opinions are my own. What it's about: 1873.  After a devastating loss, Hannah Wagner never imagined she’d leave her comfortable home for the harsh, unfamiliar wilderness near Lake Michigan. But when Henry Abernathy—a friend of her husband, John—offers them a fresh start in a booming lumber town, where John’s ski...

  Kroosreadsandreviews: A sweet story set on the East Coast!  I loved the highlighting of the wild horses, especially Dream. The characters Tyson and Jenna were so affable.  Their childhood friendship that continued on into adulthood was so precious.  It was enjoyable to watch to see if they could be more than friends. It was encouraging to see both of the main characters to be surrounded by family and friends that supported them.   Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc.  The opinions are my own. What it's about: Jenna Greene just ended things with her boyfriend . . . which also ended her career. (That's the risk a girl takes when her boyfriend doubles as her boss.) With no income and no job prospects in sight, Jenna is forced to return to her mother's house on Chincoteague Island, Virginia, to figure out what's next. And the timing couldn't be more perfect. Jenna's widowed mother has just returned from a cruise--with a brand-new boyfriend ...

  Kroosreadsandreviews: If you love legal suspense, this will be the book for you!   I really enjoyed that each of the main characters were deeply involved with their families. It was so interesting to get a behind the scenes look at the witness protection plan through the eyes of Jon. It was intriguing as well to think about the influence that the police, FBI, lawyers, etc. have on those who have been arrested.   My favorite character was Carly.  I thoroughly enjoyed how, despite her pain. she was constantly interceding for those around her!   Her prayer life was one that I aspire for.   Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc.  The opinions are my own. What it's about: All is finally good. Jon Tremaine has created a new life in Brunswick, Georgia, as part of the Federal Witness Protection program after testifying against the former drug cartel he was involved with. Only his wife, Sarah, and a handler with the US Marshal'...

  Kroosreadsandreviews: The premise of the book was so interesting to me as the characters are in the midst of a hostage situation.  Each of the characters come with their own story as to why they came to the post office.   There were a lot of characters to keep straight, which took away some of my enjoyment of the book.   Sylvie and Hope were my favorite characters.  Sylvie was able to keep everyone calm and had such wisdom and insight.  Hope colored outside of the lines in the negotiations and that was pretty cool.   The story didn't capture my interest like I thought it would.  I also didn't expect as much swearing as there was in the story.   Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc.  The opinions are my own. What it's about: On a quiet spring afternoon, an ordinary small-town post office becomes ground zero for a domestic dispute. A husband draws a weapon and seals the doors, holding four women captive: ...

  Kroosreadsandreviews: I felt like I was white water rafting reading this book!   The amount of time spent in the water by these characters was terrifying!! Gideon is the outdoors guy who you want on your side.  His knowledge and preparedness came in handy in this book! Zee is out for vengeance and won't stop until the kingpin is taken down.  She is as tough as nails and at some point, you are left begging her to stop! The story is fast paced and will leave you guessing on who is friend or foe. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc.  The opinions are my own. Book Blurb: When Mackenzie Bardine's brother Aaron was murdered in a drug deal gone wrong, she started a true crime podcast dedicated to exposing "Bullseye," the drug kingpin responsible. But her protective heart has never let go of the blame she places on herself and Aaron's best friend, Gideon Landry. On the run to the wilds of Washington to chase a recent lead, she meets none other than ...

  Kroosreadsandreviews: I loved seeing the pieces of this book come together as the author skillfully stitches the story together.   I loved how the story spans across two states and includes lots of opportunities for forgiveness. Emma was a sweet girl but I became a little frustrated with her lack of self confidence.  Ivan was a great guy but lived under his dad's thumb for his vocation.   The reader will find some unexpected snags throughout the story which adds to the drama.   Thanks to Barbour Publishing for the arc.  The opinions are my own. Book Blurb: Despite the best efforts of Emma Bontrager’s mother, Emma hasn’t learned much of anything that will prepare her to be an Amish wife. Therefore, she’s sent to Arthur, Illinois, to be taught by her paternal grandmother. Though she would rather be fishing, hiking, or playing baseball, Emma finally listens to her grandmother and even finds she enjoys working on a Tree of Life quilt. Having me...