Love in the balance by Regina Jennings

This is a cute, easy historical fiction that has a good message and engaging characters.
The story centers around Molly Lovelace has been in love with Bailey Garner for a long time and would like nothing better than to marry him, the problem is, Barry's prospects are not too bright and he does not feel right about courting her until things improve. Things are thrown into disarray when a handsome stranger comes into town and is interested in Molly. As Molly tries to decide which path her life will take she must rely on God to lead her.

This was a good interesting ready by a lively newer author.I look forward to checking out more books by her in the future.

I received a copy of this book from Bethany House,but that did not in any way influence my review

Not by Sight by Kathy

"Not by Sight" by Kathy Herman is the first book in the Ozark Mountain Trilogy. It was a light, easy read with a good, solid Christian message and a enjoyable,albeit not entirely unpredictable mystery.

Abby Cummings life has never been the same since the disappearance of her Father and little sister 5 years ago. On the anniversary of their disappearance Abby sees a young girl who looks just like her sister Riley Jo, but Abby's Mom Katie thinks Abby is not letting go and moving on. The only person Abby can confide in is her best friend Jay, but even he is hiding some secrets of his own that might affect their friendship. As danger closes in will it tear Abby's family apart or bring them back together?

I really liked how the author tied in Faith in this mystery, having a faith in God even when things do not make sense and bad things happen. I thought the characters were likable and it was an easy read. The mystery was not horribly spectacular, but it was fine. I will certainly be looking forward to the other books in the series.

In Broken Places by Michele Phoenix

This is the 2nd book I have read by Michele Phoenix and I must say that she is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors! Her books are full of witty writing, hard hitting stories and flawed, realistic characters. "In Broken Places" is a book that sticks with you long after you have read it. The story is about Shelby who has carved out a predictable life which is exactly what she wants after a horrific childhood with an abusive Father. But now Shelby's world is once again upturned when she is given custody of 4 year old Shayla. Things are overturned even more when Shelby accepts a teaching position in Germany where she is pursued by a persistent coach and learns more about healing and letting go of the past.
This book was exceptional and for me was a good reminder about the healing hand of God.I like how the book accurately portrayed how healing does not happen overnight and how God is continually working with us. It also shows the ravaging affects of an unhappy childhood and the scars it leaves.

I highly recommend this book, it is not an easy read as it breaks your heart to read about Shelby's childhood, but it is a book that sticks with you long after you have read it and I cannot recommend it enough.

 I received a copy of this book from Tyndale Publishers but it in no way influenced my opinion.