Book Review- Glittering Promises

In the beginning of our journey we find Cora a poor farmers daughter. She soon discovers that she is the daughter of Copper King Walter. Hoping to reclaim his daughter, Walter sends Cora on a grand tour of Europe with her new siblings. Throughout the journey she learns how to act like a wealthy lady, fall in love, and trust in God. Cora faces rejection, headaches, scandal, and love. 

Glittering Promises is the culminating book to this grand series. In order to appreciate Lisa's extraordinary research and master story telling, you have to read the previous two installments. Lisa did an wonderful job describing the culture and exciting places of Italy. Her characters remained well developed throughout the series, their various experiences did help mature them though. The only flaw that really bothered me was Cora's unwillingness to completely give her french suitor the boot, her constant heart battle was quite annoying. Though understandable to some extent, Will and Cora fought so much and then made up and back to fighting, it proved to be rather distracting. 

Overall I enjoyed my 1900's summer vacation to England, Austria, France, and Italy with dashing heroes, wonderful balls, and experiencing the interesting sights and people. Though the journey is over, I am satisfied with the way things turned out and how neatly Lisa cut off every loose thread.

I received a complimentary copy, form Litfuse, in exchange for this independent and unbiased review.

Book Review- I, Saul

I, Saul is a story that goes back in forth from present day Rome to Bible character Paul's prison. Right before Paul's execution he yearns to receive his parchments to finish his first account of his early life. Even on the throes of death Paul with Luke's help defy the Romans to do the Lord's will. Finding Paul's account proves to be the greatest find in present day times, and leads to unimaginable adventure and danger. The double stories provided a very unique aspect to the story. 

The extensive research included in this story is clearly evident, so much so it felt that you were walking along the roads of Damascus and Jerusalem. Even the modern day culture in Rome felt quite authentic. My only regret is that there is no actual thing as Paul's parchments. The fictional account of his childhood helped to make Bible reading more alive and personal. 

Tim Lahaye and James Mcdonald did a wonderful job creating a historical, contemporary, adventure, and Christ-centered story. I can't wait to continue my journey with the next installment to this series, I, Paul. 

I received a free copy from, FIRST Wildcard Blog Tours, in exchange for this independent and unbiased review.

Summer Recap `

Summer is basically over, cozy socks and boots have me convinced. This summer was very laid back but still enjoyable. This summers theme in my life was REUNION. As I look back I am thankful for all the people apart of my life. In May my family was able to travel to D.R. and reunite with our church family and meet some family members for the first time. Later in July I was able to see my best friend from school that I had not seen in years. It was so fun to visit her in her house and have her come to church with us. Early August my family went to my Uncles house in upstate New York. Little did we know we'd have a mini family reunion. I was able to see aunts, uncles, cousins, and family friends I had not seen in almost two years since my great- grandmothers funeral. Lastly a couple of days ago my aunt who is here from Ecuador visited our home. Family is such a beautiful thing!

Another reoccurring theme this summer was MATURITY. Kianna and I volunteered at a school starting winter through early summer. I also started volunteering at a hospital. Just with that I was able to come out of my shell, find my 'voice', and just do things for myself. 

I also enjoyed: Learning how to swim. Starting 11th grade. Eating italian ices while watching fireworks from our window. Turning sixteen! Getting in touch/ seeing many of my old school friends through Instagram. Watching new movies. Getting my second pair of Toms. Taking online college courses. Visiting different Vera Bradley stores. Cotton Candy. Carnival rides. Going to the American Girl store, and buying a mini one. The Lord's work in my life.