Under the Silk Hibiscus by Alice J. Wisler Book Review

 

 



Under the Silk Hibiscus (Historical Fiction) by Alice J. Wisler is novel set at the start of WWII after Japan attacked Pearl Harbor and all Japanese-Americans were  relocated to internment camps for the duration of the war.  Heart Mountain, Wyoming is where Nathan and his family are sent to from California.  The father was taken away to a different camp and was only able to send a few letters to his family.  Nathan Mori was the middle son, a teenager,  who was devoted to his pregnant mother, protected his younger brother, battled back and forth with his testy aunt Kazuko and wondered why his older brother could charm all the girls.  But Nathan was the most responsible and when his mother died after delivering her daughter, Nathan felt that he was the one who should care for the family in the absence of his father.  The prized heirloom, a watch hidden in the silk hibiscus in his mother's suitcase, is stolen and Nathan is distraught.  He goes to great lengths to find it and get it back which lands him in the interment camp prison.  Nathan wants truth and justice and instead he is fighting to stay alive and protect his family. His one bright hope is Lucy who has the voice of an angel, but she leaves camp without a goodbye and when Nathan's family returns to San Jose he longs to find her once again. 

This story was full of raw and quiet emotion.  It is told from the perspective of teenage boy who longs to be the strong anchor for his family, but continues to be discouraged when he fails in keeping the family heirloom safe.  When his family returns to San Jose and his father comes back nothing is the same.  Nathan works hard to provide for the family and many surprising gifts are given to him along the journey.  This is story of loss, betrayal, hope, freedom and love.  It gives a grim look at the time in history when Japanese-Americans were treated poorly and left with nothing.  Alice writes with heart and gives her characters depth and she also shares a real portrayal of what a family might have experienced at that time. 

Visit Alice J. Wisler's blog and read the first chapter in Under the Silk Hibiscus.

*I received a complimentary copy of the pdf of this book for review.  All opinions are my own.*

Rumors of War DVD Review

Rumors of War follows a young journalist who refuses to get the "chip" that people in the End Times are embedding in their skin.  She begins to see how all prophecies she has been studying are coming true.  She is on the run but leaves behind a journal that is picked up by an agent for the One World Government  years later who ends up realizing the Truth and joins others who are following the Truth. 

 

This movie was a series of flashbacks between Roxy, the young journalist, and Agent Shaw of the One World Government who finds her journal years later.  The events and characters seem real and scary!  It was a little hard to follow the flashbacks, but it was interesting to see how some of the characters changed their beliefs from the beginning to the end of the movie.

 

*I was given a complimentary copy of this DVD for the purpose of this review.  All opinions are my own.*

 

Press Release:

In the post apocalyptic future, Agent Shaw (Ben Davies, Courageous) works for the only surviving government working to bring order to a world full of decay and violence.  Shaw offers little mercy to those that would stand in the way of the government’s edict, that everyone submit to an implanted chip that tracks their movements and purchases.    He is certain that those “zealots” that would put their belief in God ahead of the beliefs of society, could lead the world back on the road toward destruction.   The zealots need to be eliminated.   But his faith was challenged when he found a small book in the rubble near one of the “rebel” encampments- the diary of young college student named Roxy (Jennifer Cooper), who was at the epicentre  of the chip’s creation years before.  She was a young aspiring journalism major whose life took a dark turn when she began researching Mr. Zurn (Eric Roberts, The Dark Knight), the man behind this implanted chip. 

 

Rumors of Wars is a a suspenseful, action packed film that centers around two converging stories- the “last days” of our present and the final days of our future.  Written and Directed by Paul Tomborello, and starring Ben Davies, Jennifer Cooper, and Eric Roberts, the DVD comes to stores November 11^th.  For more information or to see the trailer go to rumorsofwarsmovie.com.

 

 

*I was given a complimentary copy of this DVD for the purpose of this review.  All opinions are my own.*

When Calls the Heart- Rules of Engagement DVD Review

 

 

 

When Calls the Heart: Rules of Engagement DVD is a show stopper with some unexpected twists and turns.  As Jack returns to Coal Valley, he is greeted not only by Elizabeth, but by his former fiancée who arrives via stagecoach and drapes herself on Jack who is taken by surprise.  Elizabeth is dumbfounded and feels awkward and foolish around Jack and Rosemary.    As Jack tries to balance the two women that are in his life, he also continues to investigate the mine explosion.  Bill Avery, a former Mountie,  is hired to come in and make a thorough search of the area to make a case against the owner.  He enlists Abigail's help and they begin a close friendship as well.  Elizabeth is given an opportunity to pursue a more lucrative position, but feels torn for her feelings for Jack and the job that she has come to love.  Things heat up between for Jack as he decides between Rosemary and Elizabeth and the owner of the mine takes bold steps to prevent any further investigation into the explosion.  Who will Jack choose and will the town be able to be settled and move forward with hope from this mine disaster?

 

I was very intrigued with the new characters that came into this movie.  I felt that Elizabeth handled herself very well despite the charming Miss Rosemary who seemed to have a sharp tongue and prideful demeanor.  Jack seemed to know what his heart was telling him, but couldn't find a way to please both women.  It was also fun to see Abigail enjoy company with a man who also became a hero to her.  This movie had some great moments and a special surprise at the end!   

*I was given a complimentary copy of this DVD for review.   All opinions are my own.*

Homemaking 201 DVD Review (and SALE!)

 

Homemaking 201 is the next in the series of DVD's for homemakers from Family Vision Films.  Jennifer Ross and her family have a very welcoming home and a refreshing perspective of motherhood as being a servant of God.  Bible verses, quotes, poems and articles of encouragement are shared throughout the hour of this film.  I love the many ways that Jennifer not only ministers to her family, but also teaches and trains in the process.  She shares many ideas for saving money by making baby wipes, homemade dryer sheets, organizing recipes and creating a homemaking binder.   She sets up many simple resources that allow her day to go smoothly like a hospitality basket, chore chart, homeschool baskets and maintaining home tools like vacuums.  She shares some easy recipes and shows how to properly wear an apron (the "uniform" for a homemaker).  My favorite part was seeing how a focused and unfocused day is like.  I identified in both areas and I know that a mother who is focused pleases the Lord in her daily life.  This DVD gives instruction and vision for a homemaker who seeks to glorify the Lord.   You will be blessed and encouraged to be a more focused and humble homemaker as well as gain some valuable skills and tips for your motherhood journey. 


For more information on:
*Homemaking 201
*Joyful Aprons- handmade by Jennifer


Be sure to order this week (by December 5) to get the SALE for the Homemaking 201 and 101 DVD's.  These would make great gifts for a new mother, sister, or friend.

If you enjoyed Homemaking 101 from Jennifer Ross and her family, you are in for a treat.  Homemaking 201 is here! Join Jennifer and her large family as they share more!

 

In this video we cover:

• Ministering to your family
• Household maintenance
• Homemade products
• Preparing for guests
• Organization
• Chores and projects for children
• Cleaning outside your home
• Adjusting any apron for a perfect fit
• An unfocused day vs. a focused day
• Easy dinner recipe
• Creating a Homemaking Binder
• Home decorating
• and more!

 
Homemaking 201 on SALE for $12.95
Homemaking 101 on SALE for $10.95
 
SALE ends December 5!

Click HERE to order!
 
*I am an affiliate for this company.  Thank you for your support.*

Homemaking 201 is finally here and on SALE!!

 

If you enjoyed Homemaking 101 from Jennifer Ross and her family, you are in for a treat.  Homemaking 201 is here! Join Jennifer and her large family as they share more!

 

In this video we cover:

• Ministering to your family
• Household maintenance
• Homemade products
• Preparing for guests
• Organization
• Chores and projects for children
• Cleaning outside your home
• Adjusting any apron for a perfect fit
• An unfocused day vs. a focused day
• Easy dinner recipe
• Creating a Homemaking Binder
• Home decorating
• and more!

Order before November 28 to get the sale price of $12.95.  Homemaking 101 is also on sale too!

Click HERE to order!

When Calls the Heart- Change of Heart DVD Review

 

 

 

Finally, Jack and Elizabeth have a date.  Elizabeth is walking on Cloud Nine because the handsome Mountie has taken her on an exclusive date at Abigail's Café.  To add to Elizabeth's happiness, her sister Julie comes to town for a visit escorted by another Mountie who happens to be a replacement for Jack!  Jack has forgotten that he sent in a notice when he first came to Coal Valley to be released from his post, but in the meantime, he had fallen in love with the sweet school teacher.  Jack is torn and is nervous about telling Elizabeth.  Julie is excited to visit the small country town and as she explores, she meets a strange young man in a cabin in the woods.  She immediately becomes attached to this man and later finds out he is part of a gang of robbers that are on WANTED posters.  Both sisters are completely lost in their desires for the men who come into their lives.  Elizabeth is willing to let Jack go and chase his new assignment, but is aching to be with him again.  When a confrontation between the Mounties and the gang occur, Elizabeth's life is at stake.  Jack becomes her hero, but will he still stay or will he go?

 

I was so excited to receive the next video of this exciting and romantic series from When Calls the Heart.  Jack has been watching, protecting and pursuing Elizabeth, but has finally made a proper move.  I love how these two interact.  Elizabeth keeps her distance, but I can tell she wants to fall for this guy.  This story had some great action and a mystery that still remains to be solved involving Abigail and the owner of the mine.  I am very interested to see how Jack and Elizabeth's relationship progresses and what will become of the information Abigail has found regarding the mine disaster. 

*I was given a complimentary copy of this DVD for my review.  All opinions are my own.*

Stay updated at this website: When Calls the Heart Movie 

 

 

 

 

 

“A TERRIFIC SERIES FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY” -Dove Foundation

“absolutley beautiful and very entertaining” -Movie Guide

 

When Calls The Heart

 

“Change of Heart”

 

In Stores Now

 

From the Television Series inspired by the writings of Janette Oke

Nashville , Tennessee- When Calls the Heart, Produced and directed by Michael Landon Jr. and inspired by the best-selling books by Janette Oke, tells the story of Elizabeth Thatcher (Erin Krakow), a young woman of priveledge, working as a teacher in a prairie town in the Western Frontier.   The local Mounty Jack Thornton (Daniel Lissing), has began courting the high society teacher, but new orders have taken him away from the town,  Abigail Stanton (Lori Loughlin) has trouble of her own, their forced to confront the most powerful man in town in a battle that may ruin her deceased husband's reputation.

When Calls the Heart- “Second Chances” is a feature length film from the episodes of the When Calls the Heart television series.  The When Calls the Heart television series debuted on the Hallmark Channel to more than 3 million viewers, making it the No. 2 for the night on all of cable for the primary telecast at 9 p.m and No. 3 overall in households.   Distributed by Word Entertainment, previous DVD’s are available to purchase in Christian Retail.

Synopsis-  Jack finally gets Elizabeth to agree to join him for a dinner date just as Elizabeth’s younger sister, JULIE THATCHER, arrives in Coal Valley, surprising Elizabeth.  Julie is accompanied by Mountie PATRICK O’REILLY, the man who has been sent to inform Jack of his new posting, and become the new Constable of Coal Valley.  Jack had already forgotten that he sent in a request to transfer the week he arrived in Coal Valley, and the news takes him by surprise.

Michael Landon Jr. – Director:  Michael Landon Jr., son of the late television legend Michael Landon, has been in the film business for over 25 years.  With two of the highest rated films in the history of the Hallmark channel, and several top ten releases targeted to the Christian market, Michael has become known for creating heartfelt, inspiring films that connect to the family.  He has developed and/or produced, directed, and written screenplays for Fox, CBS, NBC, Disney, Sony, Lifetime, and others.

 Brian Bird- Writer/Producer : Brian Bird is co-founder with partner Michael Landon, Jr., of Believe Pictures, a film and television production company.  He was co-executive producer and writer on the successful television series, Touched by an Angel.  Adding to Brian’s success, he had also written and produced episodes of Evening Shade, Step by Step and The Family Man.  Most recently, Bird wrote and produced Gametime, a two-hour television pilot for NBC, The Shunning, inspired by the novel by best-selling author Beverly Lewis, for the Hallmark Channel, and Not Easily Broken, adapted from the novel by T.D. Jakes and released theatrically by Sony/TriStar.

About Word Entertainment:  A leader in the music industry for over 60 years, Word Entertainment, a Warner/Curb company, is a unique, comprehensive entertainment company comprised of multi-faceted artist service departments including publishing, merchandising, booking, and online initiatives. Word Entertainment represents some of the top names and brands in music, including Meredith Andrews, Chris August, BarlowGirl, Francesca Battistelli, Big Daddy Weave, Jason Castro, Patrick Ryan Clark, Everfound, for KING & COUNTRY, Group 1 Crew, Love & The Outcome, Dara Maclean, Point Of Grace and Sidewalk Prophets and is home to 25 Entertainment, Word Distribution (representing Curb Records and Big Idea/VeggieTales among others), Word Print, Word Films, Word Music Publishing and Word Label Group’s Word Records, Word Worship and Fervent Records.

The Daughter of Highland Hall by Carrie Turansky Book Review



The Daughter of Highland Hall: A Novel (Edwardian Brides Book 2) by Carrie Turansky is the next book after The Governess of Highland Hall.  Katherine (Kate) Ramsey is ready to make her debut in London, England.  She's 18 years old and looking forward to finding a husband.  But as she engages in the society parties she feels empty and useless.  Her overbearing aunt Louisa is intent on finding the perfect match and will go to great lengths to ensure Kate's rightful place in society even if Kate is unhappy.  Jon Foster is a medical student who stays with Kate's family for the summer since his sister is marrying Kate's cousin.  Despite Kate's busy society schedule, she forms an unlikely friendship with Jon.  They both discover that they love to help others and they pursue activities with that goal.  Unbeknownst to the family, Kate and Jon have fallen in love and Kate's aunt is greatly displeased.  And to make matters worse, her cousin's brother is accused of murder and Kate's name is splashed all over the newspaper articles.  Will Kate be able to live a life of love she dreams about or be chained to a man she does not love because he comes from a proper place in society?

I have to admit that Kate Ramsey was my least favorite character in The Governess of Highland Hall.  She seemed very selfish and sour.  But in this book she shines!  Carrie does an excellent job in showing the inner workings of a London debut and the expectations of society for these young girls.  Kate is a stubborn and opinionated girl and fights for what she wants.  She is also torn because she wants to please the authorities in her life.  She is caught in the middle of what she desires and what is best for her, according to her aunt.  Even thought she did try to please her aunt, she knew she needed to follow her heart.   This story was exciting and filled with twists and turns.  I was entranced and couldn't put this book down.  Be sure to pick up your copy of the second book in Carrie Turansky's series The Edwardian Brides.




Be sure to check out my review of the first book in this series, The Governess of Highland Hall.


Check out the author's website for more information on the book: Carrie Turansky.

This book releases on October 7, 2014.

*I was given a complimentary copy of this book for review by the author.  All opinions are my own.*