Whispers in the Wind Review

Cassie Lockwood is a "Annie Oakley" that grew up in the Wild West Show that her father put together. After the show is disbanded, she finds documents that shows her father had a deed to land in a valley in South Dakota. She and some of her friends have traveled to find that someone already turns out to have put a ranch on her land. Having discovered part ownership, she strives to find a way to claim a bit of what she owns.

The Engstroms have conflicting emotions about Cassie showing up. Mavis, the matriarch, immediately strives to help Cassie feel at home. Her two sons have different reactions. Ransom has no trust for Cassie and feels cheated that half of his property belongs to another. Lucas, the youngest son, feels immediate attraction to Cassie.

Soon the two groups learn to work as a family to build up the Ranch and Cabin that Cassie has been given for her and her friends to stay in. Cassie strives to find ways to support her family of friends so she does not rely on the Engstroms. Ransom keeps a watchful eye on her trying to find hidden motives and Lucas strives to win Cassie's approval.

This is the 2nd book in the series. I have not read the first one, but was able to follow the storyline. I find that this story kept my interest and I was able to finish it within a day so I gave it three stars. I do wish that author would have added a bit more romance to the characters. I know they are just getting to know one another in this book, but felt there could have been a bit more spark between Cassie and the brothers. I know the third novel should hopefully shed more light on this, but I was disappointed that there was not more there. I am curious to know the conclusion find out what happens to Cassie.

This book was sent to me by Bethany House as a complimentary free copy for my unbiased opinion on the story.

Short Straw Bride Review

I enjoyed reading this story and finished it within a day. It's the story about Meredith Hayes who happens to trespass on Archer land when she is really young. A young Travis Archer helps her and from that moment he becomes the hero of her dreams. Twelve years pass and she happens to overhear a plot to take Archer land. She risks everything to warn the Archers of impending doom.

She becomes injured while helping to protect their homestead and spends days recovering. Her reputation is put at risk and the four Archer bachelor's fight over who is to marry her. Drawing the short straw wins her hand in marriage. Travis Archer does all he can to be that man.

I like the simple romance that develops between these two characters and how she helps Travis to see that his way of life needs change. He helps Meredith to find a home where she feels safe and protected.

I will definately keep this book. I was given a free copy of this book by Bethany House for my independant and unbiased opinion.

A Book Review

Prize Of My Heart held my attention and I could not put it down. Laurena Huntley meets Captain Brogan Talvis on her father's estate. At first, Laurena is unsure of Brogan's intentions. She has every right to be curious about the Captain because the Captain holds a secret purpose in having Laurena's Father build a ship for him. I liked the fact that though they had a hint of attraction for one another, it took them both time to get to know one another on a deeper level.

I liked the fact that Brogan made the right choice to go after Laurena when she is kidnapped rather than following through with his plan. I thought the love that bloomed between the two was sweet and natural. Laurena was the patient teacher to Brogan's need to feel love not only from her but from God. In the end, when secrets come out and Brogan is heart-broken over the truth of his life...Laurena points out the blessings in his life and encourages forgiveness.

Lisa Norato weaves a story that is inspiring as well as a sweet story of letting go of one's past and making a new brighter future full of hope and faith.
I recieved a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House for my honest and unbiased opinion in regards to this novel.

My Accomplishment

I don't know how accurate it is, but I ran 1.3 miles on the wii this morning. I was very excited. It may not be quite as accurate as running outside but I don't care...I ran. That is all that matters. To me...I made a big accomplishment for myself.

1st Shopping Trip Report

Well I never did so much sweating in my life trying to do the coupons. It was a bit of a rough go. I spent  about $7 dollars at walgreens and saved $9 total. So I think I did fairly well. At Target I saved a total of $31.00 in savings. I spent a little too much there but you can't beat that savings. I now have more of an idea of how it is suppose to work.

I have my shopping list for todays adventure to Walgreens. I will buy 2 lysol toilet bowl cleaners, 2 tooth brushes, 2 toothpastes, 2 pantene shampoos, and four rolls of toilet paper for the sum of 8.28 + sales tax. I hope it turns out the way it should. lol.

Coupon Extravaganza

So Mike's cousin is into coupon savings and she posts pictures of everything she gets for $10.00 or less. It is amazing. So I have contacted her and she is giving me tips on how to do it. I have my coupons clipped and now I just have to go shopping. I must admit...I am a bit nervous just because I don't want to mess up and walk out with more out of pocket. So today I am going to go to Target and Walgreens for some fantastic deals.

I watched extreme couponing on TLC and about died with all the savings they do. I don't think I will be as good as them but I hope to do some serious savings and get our food storage to be well stocked. Mike's cousin, Sara says that you get better the more you do it. She has only been doing it for 2 months. So I hope I am successful today.

Walk

Yesterday was such an exciting day for me. The sun came out and it warmed up. I have been keeping my fingers crossed that we will be in the 70's by the weekend as the forcast has said so far. I really love being able to walk outside. Yesterday, I took Levi to the soccer fields and just walked. I forgot to put on my pedometer so was unsure of the length, but I know it had to be over 3 miles. My legs really felt it after I was done. I then let Levi play at the park and went home.

I also did an hour and 19 minutes of biggest loser yesterday. I sure feel it as well. I was proud of myself for being able to do it. I just pushed on through and got it done. I hope that this week will be a good week for me again on the weight.