Amish Christmas at Northstar

Once again Cindy comes through! I didn't have a chance to finish all 4 books before Christmas was over last year so I can't wait to dive into these wonderful stories again this season! The outline of these books has already been described well by other reviewers so I don't feel the need to give detailed descriptions. But I will say, I love every character Cindy writes into these books. She has a way of making you feel instantly connected to each one and excited to finish their story to see where they end up. The picture of where they live and the relationships they have is painted so beautifully. This collection of stories has me longing for cold weather and the magic of the Christmas season so I can curl up on the couch and enjoy Amish Christmas at North Star again!

The mapmakers children

I was pleasantly surprised with this book. I wasn't sure what to expect (being that this is the first Ive heard this author). I loved the paralled story lines of old times and modern as well as the historic reference to such an important time in American history. Learning about the secret maps and works of the UGRR was fascinating. I loved the story of redemption in Edens marriage....I only wish there had been the smallest glimmer of hope in the infertility department before the book ended (aside from her learning to be ok with where things stood). I also loved Sarah's story!... But was again wishing for more as far as the relationship between her and Freddie. The risks both women took (Sarah serving and working with the UGRR and always putting others needs above her own ......and Eden plunging into new relationships in her new town as well as changing the current state of her marriage) were very inspiring! I definitely recommend this book.... I looked forward to reading it each day .....until I ran out of pages. I received this book from the publisher isn exchange for an honest review.

Rooted in design

I was excited when I saw this book and couldn't wait too get it. I'm not the best at keeping indoor plants alive, so I was looking forward to new ideas and care for indoor plants. I figured, even if the arrangement looks like something I might kill, I can at least copy the design and buy nice faux versions to recreate. While there are definitely some really fun and inventive ideas for creating interesting arrangements, there are not as many as I'd hoped. Honestly, most of the ideas look more 70's /old lady /hippie house.... I appreciate the few modern designs the book offers and still think it will make a fun coffee table book, but unfortunately, it was slightly disappointing. I do love the colors and simple modern design of the book. I also think its worth noting (in my opinion), the photos aren't up to par. There are a handful that I love, but most seem fuzzy and lackluster. I really expected the photography to wow in this type of book.... I would have given it one more star if they had.

How to get dressed

I expected more of small coffee table book when I ordered this something more casual and entertaining, but instead I found that it to be more practical and informational. At first all the information seemed overwhelming, but after thumbing through it a second time, I realized that the author has the categories broken up and very well organized. You can easily skip the parts you don't feel apply to you and go straight to the sections where you need most help. (I already know the sections I plan to keep bookmarked for reminders.....especially the care sections and stain removal). It's like having a fashion & clothing 'field guide' to go to for reference! I'm actually kind of glad this book is not what I expected. This book offers everyday advise, things that you don't read every time you open a fashion magazine. The tricks she's learned over the years, along with short stories as to how she discovered each one, are very helpful and amusing. With the simple, vintage inspired design of this book, I will happily let it decorate my living space. I think this will be a book that my guests find themselves flipping through for bits of helpful advise while they wait for me to pour the next glass of wine.

John Shaw's guide to digital nature photography

I was very excited to receive this book.... but when it came, I was instantly disappointed. I love photography and the outdoors, so it seemed like this book was made for me. I was looking forward to the images John had captured and in learning any new tricks I may not have considered in the past. Unfortunately, the photographs are very lack luster. They all seem to be void of contrast and sharpness. It almost looks like the shadows were removed in the editing process. The subject matter is gorgeous and he delivers on composition, but all the photos seem to be missing something. As far as content, there are some helpful tips, but overall, its way too wordy and very subjective. I can't imagine anyone remembering half of that info while trying to capture the perfect moment in a quick and ever changing environment. Also, as someone who prefers Canon (because I believe it almost always delivers a sharper/cleaner image than most other brands), I wish I'd known the photographer used Nikon exclusively, it would have dictated my decision in ordering this book.

Capture the moment

I LOVE this book! As a photog myself, I see the struggle to take photos of everyday moments. It seems more second nature to set up all the shots and make everything a planned photo shoot…. everything else is an iPhone photo. I have recently started leaving my ‘real’ camera in an easy access spot to encourage myself to take more spontaneous photos of my family. This book has just added fuel to the fire! Every photograph in this book is frame worthy and the type of memory that every parent/grandparent/aunt&uncle/friend… etc, lives for! This has given me even more inspiration to capture the everyday. I can’t wait to give this book out as gifts. What a pretty book to have sitting on a coffee table while also giving people inspiration to snap away...even if it seems mundane.

Hope Crossing

Another fantastic book from Cindy! She somehow has a way of drawing you in on the first page. I love how her storytelling makes you feel as if you know each character personally and has you invested and hopeful that they will come out on top. This story is such a beautiful picture of hope, redemption, restoration and God's love for us....(even when we are far from perfect). I could not stop reading this book! I highly recommend.