First Line Fridays #14 – Up From The Sea , A Novella by Amanda Dykes

Hi Readers, Happy National Book Lovers Day!! I can’t believe that school is starting again next week. Now maybe things will slow down I’ll have more time for reading. 😉 Today I want to share the first line of a novella I just started.

“The forest floor came alive that night.”

Up From The Sea by Amanda Dykes

This first line is so interesting to me. Depending on how you read it, it could come across as slightly creepy or it could come across as a poetic way of describing the forest – I guess I’ll have to continue reading to find out.


From the Back Cover.

Deep in a New England forest, an ancient tree stands at the center of a tale passed down through the generations. So much so, that the residents of Ansel-by-the-Sea, Maine, no longer know what is truth and what is fable. A woman fleeing in the night, rumors of treason, revolution, retribution . . .

When Savannah Mae Thorpe, born and raised near the golden sands of the South, arrives with a version of the story unlike any heard before, she finds herself the unlikely leader of an expedition into the woods to discover the truth. With help from local lumberjack Alastair Bliss, who holds a shadowed past of his own, her search to discover the truth of the Atonement Tree may have unexpected ramifications on her life–and the lives of those around her.

A tale of origins, this novella is a story complete on its own but also an invitation to discover the legacy that came before the story of Robert Bliss, the fisherman-poet who changed the tide of a nation with his unsuspecting words in Amanda’s full-length novel, Whose Waves These Are.

About The Author

Amanda Dykes is the author of Bespoke: A Tiny Christmas Tale, the critically-acclaimed bicycle story that invited readers together to fund bicycles for missionaries in Asia. A former English teacher, she has a soft spot for classic literature and happy endings. She is a drinker of tea, a dweller of Truth, and a spinner of hope-filled tales, grateful for the grace of a God who loves extravagantly.

>>Great News! This novella is a free ebook on Amazon, Google Books and Christian Book Distributors. If you’ve never read any of Amanda Dykes books, this is a great opportunity to check them out!

Are you reading a suspense novel or maybe a historical romance? Grab the book nearest you or the book your currently reading and comment below with it’s first line

What are you reading this week?

I would love for you to join in on the First Line Friday fun by commenting below! Also, don’t forget to check out what other first lines Readers and Bloggers are sharing by heading over to our host blog, Hording Books!

Happy Reading! 😊

Throwback Thursday Reviews – An Elegant Facade

Hi Readers, welcome to Throwback Thursday Reviews!

These reviews are for books that are on my “Must Read” list; however, they aren’t new releases. This “Must Read” is by one of my favorite authors, Kristi Ann Hunter!

Here’s a bit of the story 🙂

Lady Georgina Hawthorne has a secret. A secret that not even her family knows and she’s determined to keep it that way. She’s been planning her debut into Society for three years and is thrilled when she hears that the Duke of Marshington is making a reappearance in society on the same night as her debut. That night at the ball, it appears that every eligible bachelor wants to dance with her… everyone that is, except the Duke – who seems to have his sights already set on her sister, Miranda. Not one to be discouraged easily, Georgina is sure she can overcome that small obstacle, so she decides to think up several ways to get the Duke’s attention. Now her biggest problem seems to be that her plans keep getting spoiled by the ever annoying, Colin McCrae.

Colin McCrae is intrigued by Lady Georgina. She is absolutely beautiful with her golden hair and brilliant green eyes; however, he knows that she would never be interested in a match with him because of his position. Since he knows that Ryland (the Duke) is only interested in Miranda, Colin decides that he wants to get to know Georgina better, even though it appears that she’s already set her sights on Ryland.


Here’s the bookish details.

This is the second book in the Hawthorne House series and it can be read as a standalone; however, I strongly recommend reading the first book (A Noble Masquerade) before reading this one. An Elegant Facade includes some of the same events described in the first book; however, this book is told from Georgina’s point of view instead of Miranda’s. In the first book, I didn’t really like Georgina, because I found her annoying and a bit stuck up; however, after reading about the events from her point of view, my opinion has definitely changed. Overall, I give this book, five out of five stars ***** and would definitely recommend to put in your TBR pile .

This is one story you don’t want to miss! This book (and the whole series) is the perfect blend of romance and comedy, and it’s definitely high on my “Must Read” list.

As always, thanks for checking out my latest Must Read! Would this be a book you would read? Or if you’ve already read it, did you like it or were there parts you didn’t like? Leave a comment below, I’d love to know what you think!

Happy Reading! 😊

First Line Friday #13 Swept Away by Mary Connealy

Hey Readers, Happy August! I can’t believe how fast the summer is going by. I wanted to take a quick second and tell you about the book I’m currently reading by Mary Connealy, Swept Away.

“The sharp crack of a cocking pistol brought Lucas Stone’s head around.”

Swept Away by Mary Connealy

From the Back Cover

When a cowboy focused on revenge encounters a woman determined to distract him, there’s going to be trouble in Texas! Swept away when her wagon train attempts a difficult river crossing, Ruthy MacNeil isn’t terribly upset at being separated from the family who raised her. All they’ve ever done is work her to the bone. Alive but disoriented, she’s rescued by Luke Stone…so unfortunately, there are more chances to die in her immediate future. Luke is on a mission to reclaim the ranch stolen from his family. But the men currently on the property won’t let it go without a fight. Luke plans to meet up with friends who will help him take back the land, and since he can’t just leave Ruthy in the middle of nowhere, she’s going to have to go with him. But the more time Luke spends around the hardworking young woman, the more he finds himself thinking of things besides revenge. Will Ruthy convince him to give up his destructive path and be swept away by love? 

About the Author

This is another author that I had the pleasure to meet at this years CFRR and she is as hilarious as her books are. Mary Connealy lives on an eastern Nebraska ranch with her husband, Ivan, and enjoys spending time with her four grown daughters and their families. She is known for her bestselling historical romantic comedies.


What is your favorite genre of books? Do you like to read several of the same genre or do you like to switch things up? Let me know in the comments below!

Happy Reading! 😊

What are you reading this week?

I would love for you to join in on the First Line Friday fun by commenting below! Also, don’t forget to check out what other first lines Readers and Bloggers are sharing by heading over to our host blog, Hording Books!

First Line Fridays #12 – Her Place In Time by Stephenia McGee

Hi Readers, Happy Friday!
I don’t have much time to talk today, but I wanted to show you a book that I just started yesterday and am LOVING so far. I’ve had this book on my TBR list ever since I had the pleasure of meeting Stephania McGee at the CFRR earlier this year. Finally, after three months, I get to read it! (*head smack*) so my First Line Friday quote is from my current Must Read by Stephania McGee, Her Place In Time.

If only leaving her problems behind were as simple as leaving town.

Her Place In Time by Stephenia McGee

This book is a time-travel romance novella and it’s the prequel to The Liberator Series; however, it can definitely be read as a stand alone. Hope you check it out!

From the back cover

Can love offer a new future…in the past?
A mysterious gown, unexpected courage, and a love that transcends time.
Nursing student Lena Lowery faces a grim diagnosis and a dangerous surgery. On the cusp of the life-changing procedure, Lena stays at the Rosswood Plantation Bed and Breakfast for one last weekend with her mother. There in an antique armoire, Lena discovers a Civil War-era gown that holds an unimaginable cure…a trip back in time to when the house served as a hospital.
Confederate Sergeant Caleb Dockery lost his brother, his eye, and nearly his life. Stuck in a makeshift infirmary, he’s counting the days until he can return to duty…and seek revenge. When a stranger appears, he suspects she’s a spy. If he can’t return to duty and find the revenge he craves for his brother’s death, he can serve his country by stopping this traitor. But her nursing skills are saving lives, and her courage and independence stirs his heart. When Lena’s safety is threatened, Caleb must strain the loyalties that bind him or risk losing her forever.
Caught between a future that holds no promises and a past that could offer new life, Lena must face an extraordinary decision. Should she return to her own time where her days are numbered? Or can she and Caleb find a love that stretches across time?

If you like historical romance with a twist, strong female characters, and heroes that transcend eras, you’ll love this journey through time that tests the limits of love.

About the Author

Stephenia H. McGee writes stories of faith, hope, and healing set in the Deep South. After earning a degree in Animal and Dairy Sciences, she discovered her heart truly lies with the art of story. She put pen to page and never looked back.


Are you reading a book from your TBR pile or maybe a Christmas book because it’s July? I’d love for you to leave a comment with the first line from your current must read. Well, I’ll talk to you guys soon!

Happy Reading 😊

What are you reading this week?

I would love for you to join in on the First Line Friday fun by commenting below! Also, don’t forget to check out what other first lines Readers and Bloggers are sharing by heading over to our host blog, Hording Books!

First Line Fridays #11 – Buried by Elizabeth Goddard

Hi Readers, Happy Friday!

I know you guys are busy (seriously, what happened to the lazy days of Summer?) but I wanted to take a moment to show you the first line from one of the most AMAZING Love Inspired Suspense books that I’ve ever read! So without further ado, I give you, Buried by Elizabeth Goddard!

Gasping for breath, Leah Marks ran for her life, working her way through the deep snow from last night’s winter storm, the semiautomatic in her pocket pressing into her side.

Buried, Elizabeth Goddard

Wow! That’s all I can say about this intriguing and intense first line. Like all the Love Inspired Suspense books, Buried is a smaller book, which makes it perfect to grab if you don’t have a lot of time for reading or if you have a smaller bag; however, I will warn you – I found this book really hard to put down because I HAD TO see how it ended. 😉

From the back cover

Nowhere to hide.

Fleeing to Alaska is the only option for Leah Marks after witnessing a murder. Afraid for her life, the legal investigator hopes a remote cabin will be a safe shelter. But the killer has tracked her to Mountain Cove. As he chases her into snow-packed Dead Falls Canyon, an avalanche buries them both. Saved by daring search and rescue specialist  Cade Warren, Leah longs to tell him the truth. But how can she, without bringing even more danger into Cade’s life? Especially when they discover the killer is very much alive and waiting to take them both down.  Mountain Cove: In the Alaskan wilderness, love and danger collide

About the Author

Elizabeth Goddard is the award-winning author of more than thirty novels and novellas. A 2011 Carol Award winner, she’s a double finalist in the 2016 Daphne Du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense, and a 2016 Carol Award finalist. Elizabeth graduated with a Computer Science degree and worked in high-level software sales  before retiring to write full time.


What amazing book are you currently reading? Has it turned out like you expected or has it had some surprising twists? Let me know by leaving a comment with the first line and how you like it so far.

What are you reading this week?

I would love for you to join in on the First Line Friday fun by commenting below! Also, don’t forget to check out what other first lines Readers and Bloggers are sharing by heading over to our host blog, Hording Books!

Happy Reading 😊

First Line Fridays #10 – Another Day, Another Dali by Sandra Orchard

Hi Readers, Happy Friday! Hope you guys are enjoying the lazy days of Summer. So my First Line for this Friday is from a hilarious suspense novel by Sandra Orchard!

I tore my gaze from the porch that wrapped around the drug dealer’s house and cringed at the number on my phone’s call display.

Another Day, Another Dali by Sandra Orchard

From the back cover

When FBI Special Agent Serena Jones takes on the case of a forged Dali painting as a favor to her grandmother, she assumes it will be a typical investigation. Hopefully collaring the thief will also mean finally measuring up in her grandmother’s eyes. But the deeper she delves into the forgery and the suspects surrounding it, the less typical it becomes. 

The Dali isn’t the only painting that’s fallen prey to the forgery-replacing thief, raising the possibility of a sophisticated theft ring–one with links to dirty cops, an aspiring young artist, and the unsolved murder of Serena’s grandfather. To make matters worse, someone connected to the forgeries seems to be determined to stop Serena’s investigation–no matter the cost. 

About the Author

Sandra Orchard is the award-winning author of several books, including A Fool and His Monet and the Port Aster Secrets series. The winner of five Canadian Christian Writing Awards and a Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award, Sandra has also received a HOLT Medallion Award of Merit, a National Readers’ Choice Award, and a Daphne du Maurier Award. She lives in Ontario, Canada.


Leave a comment below with the first line of your current Must Read – I would love to know what books you’ve read this week and of course, which one you’re currently reading.

What are you reading this week?

I would love for you to join in on the First Line Friday fun by commenting below! Also, don’t forget to check out what other first lines Readers and Bloggers are sharing by heading over to our host blog, Hording Books!

Well thanks for stopping by – See you next week!

Happy Reading! 😊

First Line Fridays #9 – Making Waves by Lorna Seilstad

Hi Readers, Happy Friday!

I hope that you all had an amazing 4th of July holiday yesterday that was filled with hamburgers, hotdogs, baked beans and of course a side of books!

I’m so excited to be able to show you one of my favorite summer books and to feature it as my First Line this Friday.

If forced to endure Roger Gordon for five more minutes, Marguerite Westing would die.

Making Waves by Lorna Seilstad

This book is down right HILARIOUS and a definite must read, especially in the Summer. I just love Marguerite’s personality and the love triangle that she finds herself in… Don’t want to say too much!

From the back cover

Sun, summer, and a scrumptious sailing instructor. What more could a girl want? 

When spunky Marguerite Westing discovers that her family will spend the summer of 1895 at Lake Manawa, Iowa, she couldn’t be more thrilled. It’s the perfect way to escape her agonizingly boring suitor, Roger Gordon. It’s also where she stumbles upon two new loves: sailing, and sailing instructor Trip Andrews. But this summer of fun turns to turmoil as her father’s secrets threaten to ruin the family forever. Will free-spirited Marguerite marry Roger to save her father’s name and fortune? Or will she follow her heart–even if it means hurting the family she loves? Full of sharp wit and blossoming romance, Making Waves will whisk you away to a breezy lakeside summer holiday. 


About the Author

Lorna Seilstad is a history buff, antique collector, and freelance graphic designer. A former high school English and journalism teacher, she has won several online writing awards and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. She lives in and draws her setting from Iowa. This is her first novel


Well Readers, Hope you have a wonderful weekend and if you’re currently in the middle of reading your latest must read, feel free to leave the first line of your book in the comments below.

Wanted to include a quick Happy 4th of July from my family, my dog and I! (my dog is adorable, but also a bit strange 😉)

Happy Reading! 😊

What are you reading this week?

I would love for you to join in on the First Line Friday fun by commenting below! Also, don’t forget to check out what other first lines Readers and Bloggers are sharing by heading over to our host blog, Hording Books!

Happy 4th of July Readers!!

Hi Readers, Happy Independence Day!

I would LOVE to have enough time to organize my books by color, but for now, I will just admire this Readers artwork because it reminds me of my home, the United States of America.

In celebration of America’s birthday, I wanted to share a couple of Bible verses that I read in my morning Bible reading.

Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.

2 Corinthians 2:17 NIV

Blessed is the people of whom this is true; blessed is the people whose God is the Lord .

Psalm 144:15 NIV


Hope you had a blessed Holiday, Happy Reading! 🙂

First Line Fridays #8 – Submerged by Dani Pettrey

Hi Readers, Happy Friday!

Is it me or is there not enough time in the day to do everything I want to do, finish or read? Well if you find a few minutes to check out a new book, you might want to check out the one I’m currently reading by Dani Pettrey!

“Never wager unless you control the stakes.” – Submerged by Dani Pettrey

This first line is from one of my favorite series and it is a DEFINITE must read. I’m telling you, this book is so hard to put down once you start it!

From the back cover

A sabotaged plane. Two dead deep-water divers.

One single clue.

Bailey Craig vowed never to set foot in Yancey, Alaska, again. She has a past, and a reputation–and Yancey’s a town that doesn’t forget. She’s returned only to bury a loved one killed in the plane crash, but then dark evidence emerges and Bailey’s own expertise becomes invaluable for the case.

Cole McKenna can face dangerous rescue dives. He can face the fear a murderer may be threatening his town. But facing the reality of Bailey’s reappearance is a tougher challenge. She broke his heart…but doesn’t seem to be the same girl who left Yancey ten years ago. And he’s not the same guy she left behind.

Racing against the clock and a rising body count, Bailey and Cole must move beyond the hurts of their pasts to work together until the truth of what is hidden in the depths finally surfaces.

About the Author


Dani Pettrey is a wife, homeschooling mom, and author. She feels blessed to write inspirational romantic suspense because it incorporates so many things she loves–the thrill of adventure, nailbiting suspense, the deepening of her characters’ faith, and plenty of romance. She and her husband reside in Maryland with their two teenage daughters. Visit her website at http://www.danipettrey.com.

On a personal note, I also had the pleasure of meeting Dani at this year’s CFRR (Christian Fiction Readers Retreat) and she was so friendly and nice – It was absolutely amazing to meet one my favorite authors!


What are you reading this week?

I would love for you to join in on the First Line Friday fun by commenting below! Also, don’t forget to check out what other first lines Readers and Bloggers are sharing by heading over to our host blog, Hording Books!

Hope you guys have a wonderful weekend and Happy Reading! 😊

First Line Friday’s #7 Fairchild’s Lady by Roseanna M White

Hi Readers, Happy first day of Summer! I’m busy helping with the last day of VBS, so even though I’m a bit late, I wanted to take a second to share the first line from the book I’m currently reading, Fairchild’s Lady by Roseanna M White

“A mask provided no anonymity.”

Fairchild’s Lady by Roseanna M White

I love how mysterious this first line is!!!

From the back cover

This bonus romantic novella is set in the intervening years between Ring of Secrets and Whispers from the Shadows by Roseanna M. White. In 1789 General Isaac Fairchild travels across the Channel on a very special assignment. After surviving the American Revolution, he is now gathering information on life at King Louis XVI’s court. But he must also locate a countess and her grown daughter and escort them back to England before revolution explodes in France. He knows danger is in the task set before him, but when he meets the beautiful Julienne, a new peril beckons him deeper into the intrigue of Versailles.

About the Author

Roseanna M. White is a bestselling, Christy Award nominated author who has long claimed that words are the air she breathes. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two kids, editing, designing book covers, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of a slew of historical novels that span several continents and thousands of years. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to find their way into her books…to offset her real life, which is blessedly ordinary. You can learn more about her and her stories at http://www.RoseannaMWhite.com

>>HEY READERS! If you want to check this book out, it’s a free novella and is available on Kindle, Nook and Google Books (maybe more!)

If you get it and read it, tell me what you think in the comments!


What are you reading this week?

I would love for you to join in on the First Line Friday fun by commenting below! Also, don’t forget to check out what other first lines Readers and Bloggers are sharing by heading over to our host blog, Hording Books!

Happy Reading!😊