Turkey Crescent Wreath

I'm always looking for a new way to use up my leftover Thanksgiving and Christmas turkey, aren't you? I found this Turkey Crescent Wreath over on Bethany's blog and decided to give it a try.

Don't let the simple ingredients fool you - this recipe is fantastic! You could also easily substitute leftover chicken, as well!

(If you're a fan of Faith's Chicken Casserole, you'll LOVE these!)

You will need a tube of crescent rolls. Begin by unrolling the crescent dough and arranging a circle on a round baking sheet or stone, like this:

Combine 2 cups of shredded turkey or chicken, 1 8-oz package of softened cream cheese, 1/2 teaspoon of seasoned salt, and 1 teaspoon of dried minced onion.

Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, divide meat mixture evenly and place on large ends of crescent dough:

Wrap small end of dough over meat mixture and press to seal:

Bake in a preheated 375 degree oven until golden brown, about 20 minutes.

Yep, that's it! Now, eat and enjoy! Yum, yum!

TURKEY CRESCENT WREATH

1 tube refrigerated crescent rolls
2 cups shredded cooked turkey or chicken
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
1 teaspoon dried minced onion

Arrange crescent dough in a circle, with large ends overlapping, on a round baking sheet. Combine turkey, cream cheese, seasoned salt, and onion. Place meat mixture evenly on dough. Wrap meat with small ends of crescent dough. Bake at 375 degrees until golden brown, about 20 minutes.

Recommend: YES

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Chocolate Truffle Cookies

Unfortunately for my family, these little morsels won't be on their cookie platters this year.

I think the reason is perfectly understandable.

I can't stop eating them...and they'll be gone by tomorrow. ;-)

So, here's the recipe so they can make their own batch!

CHOCOLATE TRUFFLE COOKIES


1-1/4 cups butter or margarine, softened (I used 1/2 cup margarine and 3/4 cup shortening)
2-1/4 cups confectioners' sugar
1/3 cup baking cocoa
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2-1/4 cups flour
2 cups (12 oz) semisweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup chocolate sprinkles

In a large mixing bowl, cream butter, sugar, and cocoa until light and fluffy. Beat in sour cream and vanilla. Add flour; mix well. Stir in chocolate chips. Refrigerate for 1 hour. Shape into 1-inch balls; dip tops in chocolate sprinkles. Place, sprinkled side up, 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 325 degrees for 10 minutes or until set. Cool for 5 minutes before removing to wire racks to cool completely. Yield: about 5-1/2 dozen.

Recommend: YES


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Are you the Walmart gift card WINNER?!

Christmas shopping has already begun in my house. Truthfully, it began this summer when I found a train table for my son at a garage sale for only $10! He's all into Thomas, so Christmas morning is going to be pretty exciting around here!

I'm sure many of you have begun your shopping, too! Someone is going to be happy to have a little extra moola to spend on someone on their list!

Commenter #16, MARCI, has won the $15 Walmart gift card from Febreze and MyBlogSpark.

CONGRATULATIONS! And Happy Shopping!

Marci, I've emailed you with instructions to claim your prize! Check your inbox!


**Disclaimer: I was given a free product for review purposes only. My reviews are not monetarily compensated and have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way, unless otherwise disclosed. Each review is based on the reactions and opinions of myself and/or family. Post *may* contain affiliate links.**
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Still House Pond by Jan Watson

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Lilly Gray Corbett loves living on Troublesome Creek, but she would much rather play with her best friend than watch her little brother and the twins. Her mama, Copper, is often gone helping to birth babies, and Lilly has to stay home. When Aunt Alice sends a note inviting her to visit in the city, Lilly is excited to go, and Copper reluctantly agrees to let her. Later, when they hear the news that the train crashed, Copper and her husband, John, rush to find out if their daughter is injured . . . or even alive. (Tyndale)

MY THOUGHTS:

I really wanted to like Still House Pond by Jan Watson, but I just couldn't get into it.

Although Still House Pond is supposed to be a standalone novel, I felt like I'd tuned into a Walton's episode a half hour too late.

Since I haven't read Jan's Troublesome Creek series and that's where many of the characters were first established, I felt a little lost.

I did enjoy Jan's style and the 'Walton's' feel to the book, so I think if I was properly introduced (by reading mama Copper's stories), I may be able give Lilly and Still House Pond a fresh start.

Also reviewed on Amazon and Christianbook.

Recommend: YES


**Disclaimer: I was sent a review copy from Tyndale for review purposes only. My reviews are not monetarily compensated and have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way, unless otherwise disclosed. Each review is based on the reactions and opinions of myself and/or family. Post *may* contain affiliate links.**
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It's that time again!!

Just take a walk through your local grocery store, and you'll see that all of the holiday baking supplies are prominently displayed.

Well, time to make some hot cocoa, pull up your stools, and start jotting down some gotta-make-this-year recipes!

Start with this one! It REALLY is the yummiest, creamiest hot chocolate! The mix fills a large gallon sized bag (approximately 50 servings) and, although we seemed to drink it all the time, it lasted my husband and me months!

GOURMET HOT COCOA MIX

Tammy Maltby from The Christmas Kitchen

4 cups instant nonfat dry milk powder

2 cups sifted confectioners' sugar

2 cups French vanilla powdered nondairy coffee creamer

2 cups powdered chocolate milk mix (store brand works just fine)

1 5-oz (6 serving) package cook-and-serve (not instant) chocolate pudding mix

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (I ended up using 1/2 cup. Gave it just the right chocolate level I was looking for)

2 cups miniature marshmallows and/or miniature chocolate chips (optional, but yummy)

Boiling water or milk, for serving

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir well. For a better blend, mix the dry ingredients in a blender or food processor before adding the marshmallows. Store the mix in an air-tight container. Makes about 12 1/2 cups mix, for 50 servings.

To serve, place 1/4 cup mix (or more) in mug or cup. Add 3/4 cup boiling water or hot milk and stir well.

Once you've done that, check out my other holiday recipes!

Recommend: YES


**Disclaimer: Post *may* contain affiliate links.**
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Let's Shutterfly!

I can't believe it's that time already, but I’ve already begun planning for our family’s Christmas card.

Along with a short note of our yearly happenings, I love to include a recent photo of my kids. I mean, aren't Christmas cards the perfect time to show off your adorable munchkins?

Shutterfly has a beautiful assortment of photo Christmas cards to choose from! You’ll have a hard time deciding!

I already found a favorite, though! Lovely Leaves:

Not only do I love the simplicity of Fresh Lemonade's design, but my favorite part? The inside of this card has space to include extra photos and a short note about each member of the family! Just what I love to include in my cards!

Perfect!

Not only does Shutterfly have beautiful, high-quality Christmas cards, but you can also mark a few people off of your shopping list with personalized wall calendars or photo books! Grandmas especially love them! ;-)

I really can't say enough about Shutterfly. I love the pictures and photo books I've ordered from them in the past! I know you would be pleased with your Christmas cards, too! Be sure to check them out...!

Recommend: YES



**Disclaimer: I was given 50 free photo cards for writing this post. Each review is based on the reactions and opinions of myself and/or family. Post *may* contain affiliate links.**
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Head in the Clouds by Karen Witemeyer

CFBA introduces another title this week: Head in the Clouds by Karen Witemeyer.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Adelaide Proctor is a young woman with her head in the clouds, longing for a real-life storybook hero to claim as her own. But when a husband-hunting debacle leaves her humiliated, she interviews for a staid governess position on a central Texas sheep ranch and vows to leave her romantic yearnings behind.

When Gideon Westcott left his privileged life in England to make a name for himself in America's wool industry, he never expected to become a father overnight. And five-year-old Isabella hasn't uttered a word since she lost her mother. The unconventionality of the new governess concerns Gideon--and intrigues him at the same time. But he can't afford distractions. He has a ranch to run, a shearing to oversee, and a suspicious fence-cutting to investigate.

When Isabella's uncle comes to claim the child--and her inheritance--Gideon and Adelaide must work together to protect Isabella from the man's evil schemes. And soon neither can deny their growing attraction. But after so many heartbreaks, will Adelaide be willing to get her head out of the clouds and put her heart on the line? (CFBA)

MY THOUGHTS:

Like Karen's debut novel, A Tailor-Made Bride, I really enjoyed the cover of Head in the Clouds. Or, should I say the BACK of the cover. ;-) You can see Adelaide's foot and book in the air and she trips off the porch. Certainly portraying a girl with her head in the clouds!

Although that's the cover and title, I didn't think Adelaide was really that oblivious! She seemed quite smart and composed, with a cheerful disposition and active imagination  - she just had a fairytale vision of Prince Charming - and who doesn't after reading Jane Austen?

I would have enjoyed Head in the Clouds better without Jose's part, as Uncle Petchey is enough nasty scoundrel in the story for everybody.

Although Gideon and Adelaide play out a fairly obvious prairie-western love story, Head in the Clouds was an enjoyable kids' naptime read.

AND FOR YOU, a peek into the book:
Head in the Clouds

Also reviewed on Amazon and Christianbook.

Thank you to Karen and Bethany House, through CFBA, for sending me a review copy!

Recommend: YES


**Disclaimer: I was given a free product for review purposes only. My reviews are not monetarily compensated and have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way, unless otherwise disclosed. Each review is based on the reactions and opinions of myself and/or family. Post *may* contain affiliate links.**
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The Preacher's Bride by Jody Hedlund

This week, CFBA is introducing The Preacher's Bride by Jody Hedlund.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

In 1650s England, a young Puritan maiden is on a mission to save the baby of her newly widowed preacher--whether her assistance is wanted or not. Always ready to help those in need, Elizabeth ignores John's protests of her aid. She's even willing to risk her lone marriage prospect to help the little family. Yet Elizabeth's new role as nanny takes a dangerous turn when John's boldness from the pulpit makes him a target of political and religious leaders. As the preacher's enemies become desperate to silence him, they draw Elizabeth into a deadly web of deception. Finding herself in more danger than she ever bargained for, she's more determined than ever to save the child--and man--she's come to love.

MY THOUGHTS:

I didn't quite know what to think when I first started reading Elizabeth's story. Most parts I liked, some parts I particularly didn't - like too much mentioning of eyes-raking-over-bodices. I read so many books, that a story really has to have something unique to hold my attention.

The time period was also a bit difficult for me to get into. It wasn't quite like this (although close!), but I just kept imagining a medieval town with dirty, raggedy villagers and evil villains terrorizing woman and shooting flaming arrows into thatched roofs. Not generally something I enjoy reading.

However, when I finished The Preacher's Bride and read the Author's Note, my mind started leaning more towards liking the book. Jody was inspired by the true story of John Bunyan and his wife, Elizabeth. While I can't vouch for the historical accuracy, it did change my feelings toward the story.

I would have actually preferred a little more clarification on John and WHY he and his family were persecuted. All I really got was that he was an unlearned man, preaching the gospel - seen as illegal in that day and age.

Regardless, I know many men and women have taken a strong stand on what God's Word says and died for their faith (for more or less reasons than being an uneducated preacher). I don't believe there are many today who are truly willing to die for the Lord. Most are much more willing to compromise.

Overall, The Preacher's Bride was an interesting look into what 17th century Christians may have suffered to hold true to their beliefs.

AND FOR YOU, a peek into the book:
The Preacher's Bride

Also reviewed on Amazon and Christianbook.

Thank you to Jody and Bethany House, through CFBA, for sending me a copy to read and review!

Recommend: YES


**Disclaimer: I was given a free product for review purposes only. My reviews are not monetarily compensated and have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way, unless otherwise disclosed. Each review is based on the reactions and opinions of myself and/or family. Post *may* contain affiliate links..**
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Chocolate.com and The Chocolate Gecko Review

My mailbox is often filled with exciting packages. The most exciting one I've received in the last few weeks was a chocolatey package of goodness from Chocolate.com!

I mean, really? Which is more exciting? A bill, a new book, or chocolate?!

Yep, I thought so!

Chocolate ALL. THE. WAY! ;-)

Chocolate.com is exactly what you think it is! A site dedicated entirely to CHOCOLATE, offering delicious treats from countless high-quality vendors.

Chocolate.com sent me The Chocolate Gecko's dark chocolate-dipped homemade marshmallows.

Yummy.

I've never had homemade marshmallows before and these were a lovely surprise. The Chocolate Gecko's marshmallows weren't overly sweet, which made them perfect to be paired with the rich all-natural, Belgian dark chocolate they use.

They were also HUGE! Look! The size of my hand!

I was very pleased with the quality and service of Chocolate.com and The Chocolate Gecko. I would not hesitate to order chocolate goodies for myself or friends for any occasion, from birthday truffles to stocking stuffer cashew bark to I love and appreciate you peanut butter meltaways!

If I had to choose between flowers or chocolate, it'd definitely be chocolate! Chocolate.com makes it easy to treat your special someone (hint, hint!) by joining their Chocolate of the Month Club! Mmmm!

Why not get some of your Christmas shopping done?? Register HERE for Chocolate.com's newsletter AND a $5.00 gift certificate towards a yummy treat to give (or keep)! YUM!

Recommend: 2 THUMBS UP YES



**Disclaimer: Many thanks to The Chocolate Gecko and Chocolate.com for providing me with a free product for review purposes only. Each review is based on the reactions and opinions of myself and/or family. Post *may* contain affiliate links. .**
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The Waiting by Suzanne Woods Fisher *EDITED*

ABOUT THE BOOK:

The Waiting, a stand alone story in The Lancaster Secrets collection, is a compelling page turner. Jorie King has been waiting for Benjamin Zook to return home to Lancaster County so they can marry. When news arrives that Ben has been killed, Jorie finds comfort in the friendship of his brother Caleb. That friendship ripens into love, and it seems that they are meant to be together. But when the unexpected happens, their worlds are turned upside down once more. Will Jorie trust God to lead her into the arms of a new man?

A multifaceted story about complex people living the simple life. Readers will find themselves transported into the world of the Amish and deeply invested in these wonderful characters.

MY THOUGHTS:

I was thoroughly enjoying Suzanne's newest book, The Waiting.

However, I was severely disappointed on page 274, a mere 25 or so pages from the end. The name of my Savior was taken in vain.

I did not complete the book, no matter how much I loved the story up to that point and wanted to see all the ends tie up.

Any and every excuse can be made as to who said it or why it was said.

Doesn't matter to me. I will not tolerate it.

Shame on any "Christian" publisher or author allowing such blasphemy.

"Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain." Exodus 20:7

*EDITED*

I am always pleased when an author reads my review and lets me know. Although my review and recommendation of The Waiting was negative, Suzanne immediately contacted me about the concerns I had over the language issue. Suzanne was quite apologetic and told me that she had contacted her editor after reading my review to make changes in any future reprints.

First--I want you to know that I never intended to take the Lord's name in vain. Never! I have to be honest--I have not thought of that word in such a manner.

But...I do respect that it felt like a disrespectful use of Jesus' name to you and I sincerely apologize for that. I know I can't please every reader--but your response definitely touched a chord in me. I would never, ever want a reader to think I would use God's name in a flippant way. Never!

So I e-mailed my project editor at Revell about it--she and I both have decided to substitute that word for future print runs.

I hope you'll forgive me for being careless. That word is officially "retired" for me!

I truly appreciated Suzanne's humble heart, and wanted to make sure I let all of my readers know.

**Disclaimer: I was given a free product for review purposes only. My reviews are not monetarily compensated and have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way, unless otherwise disclosed. Each review is based on the reactions and opinions of myself and/or family. Post *may* contain affiliate links..**
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Febreze Home Collection Wooden Wick Candle - and Walmart gift card GIVEAWAY!

{COMMENTS CLOSED - WINNER ANNOUNCED SOON!}

I love candles.

Love them.

Although I burn them all year long, as the chillier days of fall and winter approach, I find myself burning candles more often.

I was excited to have a chance, through MyBlogSpark, to test Febreze's new wooden wick candles.

No fireplace, no problem. Breathe a sigh of relief because the new Febreze Home Collection Wooden Wick candle has you covered. Bring the calming crackle of a burning fire into your home anytime of year with 80 hours of “ahhhhhhhh.”






Available in nine premium scents, these tranquil candles are specially designed with a wooden wick to recreate the ambiance and sound of a crackling fire indoors. Offering a brilliant range of everyday fragrances, Febreze Home Collection Wooden Wick candles can help inspire a scent and design transformation in your home.

Be sure to look for Febreze Home Collection Wooden Wick candles at your local Walmart in fragrances like Green Tea Citrus, Pomegranate Mango, Cranberry Pear, Orange Honeycomb, Rosewood Plum and Willow Blossom; as well as seasonal scents that include Anjou Pear Spice, Gingersnap Vanilla, and Yumberry Sangria.

When burning Febreze's new candles, I'm not quite sure you'll feel you're sitting in front of a fireplace. You have to listen pretty close for any 'crackling.' But, the candles are strongly and pleasingly scented, and I thought they flickered more than a normal wick, providing a warm and romantic atmosphere.

GIVEAWAY ALERT!

Want to WIN IT? One winner will receive a $15 Walmart gift card to buy her own Febreze wooden wick candle! To enter, visit Febreze and tell me which Febreze wooden wick candle scent you'd most like to try! For additional entries (must do above to qualify for extra entries!),

• Follow my blog publicly via Google Friend Connect (sidebar) or a feed reader or subscribe by email (must confirm subscription). Comment and let me know! If you're already a follower/subscriber, comment and let me know! (1 entry)
• Blog about my giveaway and leave me a link to your post! (1 entry) 
• Follow The Creative Side of Me via Networked Blogs. Comment and let me know! (1 entry)
• Enter my giveaway URL into another blog's giveaway McLinky and send me the link so I can see it! (1 entry)
• Snag my blog button (in the far right column) and leave a comment with the link! (1 entry)
• Fan Febreze and The Creative Side of Me on facebook and leave me a comment saying so! (1 entry)
• Sign up for Swagbucks using my referral link! Comment and give me your Swag Name! (10 entries!)
• Follow Febreze and The Creative Side of Me on Twitter and tweet this (1 entry, daily):

Enter to WIN a $15 Walmart gift card @creativeSOme and Febreze! Details: http://bit.ly/9Dn1nu Ends 11/8 #giveaway #myblogspark #contest
Entries that do not fulfill guidelines will be deleted, so read carefully!
Entries accepted until Monday, November 8, 11:59 PM (EST).Winner(s) will be chosen by random.org and winner(s) will be notified by email. Winner(s) must confirm prize email within 48 hours or another winner(s) will be chosen.

Recommend: YES

**Disclaimer: I was given a free product for review purposes only, as well as a Walmart gift card to share with my readers, from P&G, through MyBlogSpark. Each review is based on the reactions and opinions of myself and/or family. P&G does not represent or warrant the accuracy of any statement or product claims made here, nor does it endorse any opinions expressed within this blogsite. Post *may* contain affiliate links..**
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While We're Far Apart by Lynn Austin

This week, CFBA is introducing While We're Far Apart by Lynn Austin.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

In an unassuming apartment building in Brooklyn, New York, three lives intersect as the reality of war invades each aspect of their lives. Young Esther is heartbroken when her father decides to enlist in the army shortly after the death of her mother.

Penny Goodrich has been in love with Eddie Shaffer for as long as she can remember; now that Eddie's wife is dead, Penny feels she has been given a second chance and offers to care for his children in the hope that he will finally notice her and marry her after the war.

And elderly Mr. Mendel, the landlord, waits for the war to end to hear what has happened to his son trapped in war-torn Hungary. But during the long, endless wait for victory overseas, life on the home front will go from bad to worse.

Yet these characters will find themselves growing and changing in ways they never expected--and ultimately discovering truths about God's love...even when He is silent.

MY THOUGHTS:

I've read several of Lynn's books over the years. Some I've liked, some I didn't.

Considering that I was already crying at the end of the first chapter, While We're Far Apart was one I LIKED. I couldn't put it down!

I loved each separate character's story, but when they were all tied together, it was wonderful. Even as the story progressed, I was still surprised by unexpected conclusions, from silent Peter to Penny's sister to Roy! 

While We're Far Apart is as much a story about the pain of loss and grieving as the hope and healing of love.

AND FOR YOU, a peek into the book:
If you would like to read the first chapter of While We're Far Apart, go HERE.

Recommend: YES

Many thanks to Lynn and Bethany House, through CFBA, for sending me a review copy!


**Disclaimer: I was given a free product for review purposes only. My reviews are not monetarily compensated and have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way, unless otherwise disclosed. Each review is based on the reactions and opinions of myself and/or family. Post *may* contain affiliate links. If you click on them and decide to make a purchase, I receive a (very!) small commission. Hey, every little bit helps! So, I thank you! :-).**
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We have a WINNER! Was it you?

Thanks to everyone who gave me hints and tips on my pottery! I've looked at most of the links and they've been very helpful!

But, now for what you really want to know...did YOU win??

Congratulations to KATIE (comment #83) on WINNING a $70 gift certificate to CSN Stores!!

I wish I could have chosen you all!

Don't despair! I've got another giveaway to post in a day or two!

Katie, I've emailed you! Check your inbox!




**Disclaimer: I was given a free product for review purposes only. My reviews are not monetarily compensated and have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way, unless otherwise disclosed. Each review is based on the reactions and opinions of myself and/or family. Post *may* contain affiliate links. If you click on them and decide to make a purchase, I receive a (very!) small commission. Hey, every little bit helps! So, I thank you! :-).** ___________________________________

Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake

Wow.

It is so time for a non-book review post! ;-)

My husband just finished a 6-month long addition project, and my mother-in-law is now our new 'neighbor.'

Needless to say, we've been pretty busy.

Although I've still been trying new recipes here and there, most of our meals have been super quick and not worthy of blog posts!

But THIS...!

This Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake is certainly worthy to be posted!

It was FAN.TAB.U.LOUS!!!

Perfect for brunch or overnight company! Or just eat the whole thing yourself! ;-)

I found the recipe over on Krista's blog and I hope you'll give it a try! Mmmm, yummy!

RASPBERRY CREAM CHEESE COFFEE CAKE

2-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup cold butter
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup sour cream
1 egg, beaten
1 teaspoon almond extract

FILLING:
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar
1 egg
1/2 cup raspberry jam (I used seedless)
1/2 cup sliced almonds

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and sugar. Cut in butter until mixture is crumbly. Remove 1 cup and set aside. To the remaining crumbs, add baking powder, baking soda, salt, sour cream, egg, and almond extract; mix well. Spread in the bottom and 1 inch up the sides of a greased 9-in springform pan.

For the filling, in a small bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and egg in a small bowl until blended. Pour over batter; spoon or pipe raspberry jam on top. Swirl with a knife. Sprinkle with almonds and reserved crumbs.

Bake at 350 degrees for 45-55 minutes or until golden brown. Let stand for 15 minutes. Carefully run a knife around the edge of pan to loosen; remove sides from pan. Serve warm or cool. Refrigerate leftovers.

Recommend: YES


**Disclaimer: Each review is based on the reactions and opinions of myself and/or family. Post *may* contain affiliate links. If you click on them and decide to make a purchase, I receive a (very!) small commission. Hey, every little bit helps! So, I thank you! :-).**
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Embers of Love by Tracie Peterson

This week, CFBA is introducing

Embers of Love
by Tracie Peterson
(Bethany House, October 1, 2010)

ABOUT THE BOOK:

The logging industry in eastern Texas is booming, and Deborah Vandermark plans to assist her family's business now that she's completed college. Unexpectedly, her best friend, Lizzie Decker, accompanies her back home--fleeing a wedding and groom she has no interest in.

Deborah, the determined matchmaker, puts her sights on uniting her brother and dear friend in a true love match. Deborah soon meets Dr. Christopher Clayton, a much-needed addition to the town. As their lives intersect, Deborah realizes that she has a much greater interest in medicine and science than the bookkeeping she was trained in.

But when typhoid begins to spread and Lizzie's jilted fiance returns, Deborah wonders if true love can overcome such obstacles...for those dearest to her, and for herself.

MY THOUGHTS:

When I began Embers of Love, I felt like the beginning was rushed, almost as if I was starting a sequel. It seemed the characters had already been introduced, but I'd been left out of the introductions.

There were a few moments that I thought I might be reading about modern-day Emma. Well-intentioned matchmaker. But, then it wasn't. But, then it was.

I had a hard time figuring out many of the characters. Sometimes Euphanel spoke with a soft drawl and other times she seemed to speak primly and properly. Same with G.W. It was difficult for me to connect with any one character.

Really, Embers of Love wasn't bad. I've just read better books by Tracie. I am quite interested to see what happens with the second book in Tracie's Striking A Match series, Hearts Aglow (February 2011). I would love to see if Deborah will be able to pursue a medical career.

AND FOR YOU, a peek into the book:
Embers of Love

Also reviewed on Amazon and Christianbook.

Recommend: YES


**Disclaimer: I was given a free product for review purposes only. My reviews are not monetarily compensated and have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way, unless otherwise disclosed. Each review is based on the reactions and opinions of myself and/or family. Post *may* contain affiliate links. If you click on them and decide to make a purchase, I receive a (very!) small commission. Hey, every little bit helps! So, I thank you! :-).** ___________________________________

A Memory Between Us by Sarah Sundin

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Can they overcome the past to find a brighter future together?

Major Jack Novak has never failed to meet a challenge--until he meets army nurse Lieutenant Ruth Doherty. When Jack lands in the army hospital after a plane crash, he makes winning Ruth's heart a top-priority mission. But he has his work cut out for him. Not only is Ruth focused on her work in order to support her orphaned siblings back home, she also is determined not to give her heart to any man.

As the danger and tension of World War II rise to a fever pitch, Jack and Ruth will need each other more than ever. Can Jack break down her defenses? Or are they destined to go their separate ways?

From the English countryside to the perilous skies over France, A Memory Between Us takes you on a journey through love, forgiveness, and sacrifice.

A Memory Between Us is the second book in the WINGS OF GLORY series, which follows the three Novak brothers, B-17 bomber pilots with the US Eighth Air Force stationed in England during World War II.

MY THOUGHTS:
I couldn't wait to get my hands on Sarah's debut novel, A Distant Melody, and really enjoyed the WWII homefront love story. So, when I was given the opportunity to read about another of the Novak brothers in her second book, A Memory Between Us, I quickly accepted.

You can tell that Sarah has put a lot of time into her research. I don't know the accuracy - I'm not a WWII plane buff - but, she writes such detail, that I felt I could imagine the plane, the flights, and the fights. While I was reading, I even told my husband that I want to visit our local warplane museum and check some of these planes out!

While A Distant Melody was a sweet love story,  A Memory Between Us was more serious, dealing with some tough subjects. These tough subjects made for some uncomfortable reading, and I much preferred book one, although pride and forgiveness are certainly two of my own weaknesses.

Despite the hard subject matter, I had a hard time putting the book down, due to Sarah's finesse at portraying the realistic emotions and reactions of the characters.

So far, both books in the Wings of Glory series are easily standalones, but I still look forward to seeing what Sarah does with the 'last' Novak brother in book three!

CONTEST!

Sarah Sundin is hosting a great Movies and Memories giveaway! Click on the above picture to enter to win a fabulous prize package that includes gourmet chocolate, British specialty teas, a Netflix subscription, and MORE!

ALSO, I received a few bookmarks from Sarah, and I'd like to pass them on to my readers! So, if you're interested, comment on the post or drop me an email! I'll send them out until they run out! ;-)

Many thanks to Sarah, through Litfuse, for sending me a copy of A Memory Between Us to read and review!

Also reviewed on Amazon and Christianbook.

Recommend: YES


**Disclaimer: I was given a free product for review purposes only. My reviews are not monetarily compensated and have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way, unless otherwise disclosed. Each review is based on the reactions and opinions of myself and/or family. Post *may* contain affiliate links. If you click on them and decide to make a purchase, I receive a (very!) small commission. Hey, every little bit helps! So, I thank you! :-).** ___________________________________