Monday, March 31, 2014

Sincerely Yours Book Review

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About the Book


In this collection of brand-new historical novellas from four outstanding storytellers, four young women find their lives altered after each receives a letter that sets her on a new path toward a changed life--and perhaps lifelong love. From a Hudson River steamboat to a lush drawing room, from a carousel carver's workshop to a remote and controversial hospital, readers will love being swept into the lives of four young women who are making their way in the world and finding love where they least expect it. (Goodreads)


My Review

What a collection of stories and authors! I love the cover of this book. My favorite novella is by Amanda Cabot about a carousel carver and young woman of society that discovers having a big name is not everything. I liked the unique aspect with carving the carousel and painting. While all novellas are usually predictable, the other stories didn't stand out to me. Jane Kirkpatrick is always a good story teller and even in her short story there were details that I enjoyed.Laurie and Ann are great authors there stories in this collection just didn't intrigue me as much.
 Overall this is a four novella book, don't expect a lot of depth but do expect unique situations and characters. 


Jane is hosting a giveaway, check it out!


"I received this book from Revell for free in exchange for an honest review."










Friday, March 28, 2014

A Sky Without Stars Book Review

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About the Book
In 1951, Frankie Chasing Bear is a Lakota caught between cultures. She wants to raise her son Harold to revere his Lakota heritage, but she knows he will need to become as a white man to succeed. After his father is killed in a barroom brawl, Harold and Frankie move to Arizona, where she begins a Lakota Star pattern quilt for Harold with tribal wisdom sung, sewn and prayed into it. She distrusts Christians, as her own parents were forced to convert at an Indian School, until she meets BIA agent Nick Vandergriff, a half-Lakota who s also caught between cultures. Nick must convince Frankie that white men and Christians aren t all bad as he tries to win her heart in order to put the stars back into her sky. (Goodreads)


My Review
I was looking forward to this book because the story line sounded unique. Sadly, I was really disappointed with this book and the characters. It was very difficult to get into this book and this is one of the longer Quilts of Love books I have read. I like the story behind the quilt and the Lakota heritage and how the cultures are shown in the storyline. 
The love story is obvious but not captivating. 
Overall I wish I could say more but this was a bummer read for me. 


"I received this book from Litfuse for free in exchange for an honest review."
Don't miss this month's Quilts of Love book, A Star Without Stars, by Linda S. Clare. Linda is celebrating the release with a Kindle HDX giveaway and joining her fellow Quilts of Love authors, Barbara Cameron and Joyce Magnin, for a Facebook "Spring Fling" party on April 1st.
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  One winner will receive:
  • A Kindle Fire HDX
  • Scraps of Evidence by Barbara Cameron
  • A Sky Without Stars by Linda S. Clare
  • Maybelle in Stitches by Joyce Magnin
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 1st. Winner will be announced at the "Spring Fling" Facebook Party on April 1st. RSVP today and connect with the authors from the Quilts of Love series, Barbara Cameron, Linda S. Clare, and Joyce Magnin, for an evening of book chat, quilt trivia, prizes, and an exclusive look at the next Quilts of Love book!

So grab your copies of Scraps of EvidenceA Sky Without Stars, and Maybelle in Stitches and join Barbara, Linda, and Joyce on the evening of April 1st for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the books, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today by clicking JOIN at the event page. Spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway and party via FACEBOOK or TWITTER. Hope to see you on April 1st!

Wednesday, March 26, 2014

Grave Danger Book Review




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 About the Book
 When skeletal remains are found on a small Maine island, forensic anthropologist Lydia Muir is sent to investigate. It's Lydia's job to determine whether the homicide happened long ago—or more recently. Island sheriff Wesley Grant seems sure the murder didn't happen on his watch. But when Lydia uncovers the victim's identity, someone goes to great lengths to get Lydia off the island. Wes vows to protect her, but is the handsome lawman holding something back? To help catch a killer, she'll have to trust him—or become the next victim.(Goodreads)

 My Review

Grave Danger is a follow up book to Warning Signs. I have read both and while I think the second book can be read alone it's always best to read the first as well. Grave Danger was a much better read in my opinion. I thought the characters were better developed and the story line seemed to flow in a more suspenseful way. Lydia was my favorite character and I really enjoyed getting into her mind throughout the story. While this is a small book it holds a well developed story. I recommend to those who enjoy suspense and a touch of romance.
Look for it in stores May 6, 2014! Learn more




 "I received this book from the author for free in exchange for an honest review-thank you!"

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

The Passion Principles Book Review



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 About the Book

Move beyond the mechanics of sex to a rich and rewarding connection!

God's desire is for couples to enjoy vibrant sexual relationships without inhibition, awkwardness, fear, resentment, guilt, or shame. With honesty and frankness, life coach and best-selling author Shannon Ethridge opens the minds of both husbands and wives to embrace a lifestyle of passion and pleasure.

Divided into four sections, "The Passion Principles" helps couples celebrate the spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical dimensions of sexuality. Questions include:

What was God thinking when He created sex?Why do humans think about sex so much?Will there be sex in heaven?How did we get such different ideas about sex and love?How can I get past his or her sexual past?How can I help my spouse heal from the sexual abuses he or she suffered?What if my heart is telling me I married the wrong person?How can we balance mismatched sex drives?

Some chapters end with questions for personal contemplation or for couples to use as conversation starters, and other chapters end with prayers that foster a deeper spiritual and emotional connection, making this book a perfect guide to a more passionate love life. (Goodreads)


My Review
I am not usually interested in hearing about others opinions are what goes on in the bedroom. But Shannon Ethridge is an author that I enjoy because she is a to the point, no nonsense, praise God woman. I liked this book and what she has to say about sex and that God designed it. She goes into detail with the spiritual aspect that I didn't entirely agree with. At the start of the book Shannon states that this book will be controversial, the parts you don't like just mark with a marker and move on to at least finish it. Each person has a different opinion/understanding on this topic and when you start adding Bible verses people get nervous. Shannon goes into great detail about our Maker and what is actually written in the Bible. She also goes into detail on the uncomfortable things. 
She has some great advice on how to talk to your spouse and answers questions that she has been asked by many women. 



I recommend to those who are looking for a book on this topic.

"I received this book from BookLook Bloggers for free in exchange for an honest review."











Spoken For Book Review



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 About the Book
Say Yes to the Love Story of Your LifeA great romance was set in motion before you were born. A relentless Lover is pursuing you, and He has made His intentions clear. He wants you to be His forever. How will you respond to the One who longs for you to be His with your whole heart?

In Spoken For, Robin Jones Gunn and Alyssa Joy Bethke speak to your heart about what it means for you to belong to Christ, who you are because of His love, and how that affects the way you live. Drawing on biblical promises and their personal experiences,   these two friends share what it’s like to live out God’s unfolding love story.

You are not up for grabs. You are spoken for.

Includes questions for group discussion and personal reflection.
(Goodreads)




My Review

I enjoy Robin Jones Gunn so I was encouraged to pick this book because of her writing. I really enjoyed this book, though it could be read more as a devotional or even a small group study. Each chapter includes questions at the end which I actually enjoyed. Sometimes I don't get much from the questions but these really related. 
Here is a tidbit I enjoyed: "God doesn't have any grandchildren. Just because your parents are Christians, that doesn't automatically make you a Christian." The author is referring to a speaker once heard and I thought it summed things up nicely. 

Also, on page 23 there is a long list of  What God Says About You and this is a ton of verses where it's obvious you are God's treasure. I really enjoyed this part. Later on in the book is also takes this a bit more in depth. Overall both of these women have great things to say. At first I thought it was geared toward younger teens, which it could but I think it's great for anyone to read. 

I highly recommend! Pick it up when it comes out April 15, 2014!



"I received this ARC book from Blogging for Books for free in exchange for an honest review."









Sunday, March 23, 2014

25 Ways to Communicate Respect to Your Husband Review



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About the Book


We get out of marriage what we pour into it.

• Would you like for your husband to be more attentive?
• Do you long for him to notice and admire you?
• Wish he’d recognize and appreciate all your hard work?
• Want him to be respectful of your wishes and opinions?
• Would you like for him to spend more time with you?

Then treat him the way you want to be treated.

WARNING: Reading this book may alter the way you look at your husband, your marriage, and life in general. Read at your own risk. Side effects from implementing the principles set forth in these pages may include a more joyful outlook, better communication skills, a healthier relationship, a happier home, and a rekindled desire to love on your man. (Goodreads)




My Review

Jennifer knows what she is talking about with this book. Having been married 26 plus years, I figure she knows a bit more than I do with my 2 years and counting marriage. I enjoy reading books that talk about respecting your husband or how to honor your marriage. Obviously my generation and the one before me struggles with maintaining a stable marriage as the divorce rates seem to keep going up. 
This book covers a ton of examples on how to communicate respect to your husband. Some of these are a bit hard to accomplish, such as being submissive, cooking a good meal, and dressing in a way that pleases him. All of these things can start controversy but Jennifer takes scripture and then shows examples on how to live it out. One thing that stood out to me the most is dressing in a way that your husband likes. And I'm just talking about everyday clothes here.  Does he really want me to wear sweat pants every day? No not really. Granted there are sweat pant days but it would be nice to know what my husband likes and wear it for him- he is the one who gets to look at you anyway! There are some other great ideas or examples that Jennifer talks about in this book. While it's fairly short, it's simple, to the point, and easy to read. 

I recommend to any married woman. 

Purchase the Book. 

"I received this book from BookCrash and the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review."











Outlaw Book Review

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 About the Book

 The story of how I, Julian Carter, and my precious two-year old son, Stephen, left Atlanta Georgia and found ourselves on a white sailboat, tossed about like a cork on a raging sea off of Australia's northern tip in 1963, is harrowing.

But it pales in comparison to what happened deep in the jungle where I was taken as a slave by a savage tribe unknown to the world. Some places dwell in darkness so deep that even God seems to stay away.

There, my mind was torn in two by the gods of the earth. There, one life ended so another could begin.

Some will say I was a fool for making the choices I made. But they would have done the same. They, too, would have embraced death if they knew what I knew, and saw through my eyes.

My name is Julian and this is my story. But more, it is the story of my son who was born to change the world.


From deep in the impenetrable jungles where New York Times bestselling author Ted Dekker was born and raised, comes OUTLAW, an epic adventure of two worlds that perhaps only he could write. Full of harrowing twists, sweeping violence, and wild love, Outlaw takes us beyond the skin of this world to another unseen. (Goodreads)


 My Review

Ted Dekker is one of my favorite authors. His details and mind twisting plots I love. This book, while not his best, was very good. At the back of the book he talks about his own childhood and how he grew up around different people and languages. This book is set in the jungle and survival is a key element, until the ending where everything is better understood. The first part of this book was slow for me as it kept going back to Julian's fate. The rest of the book kept me captivated and I enjoyed the characters and the overall storyline. I don't want to give anything away, each detail is important to the story. I rate it five stars. 

 For fans of Ted Dekker you will enjoy this book, for those who enjoy twists and turns, pick this book up. 



Learn more about Ted Dekker


"I received this book from Hachette for free in exchange for an honest review."







Thursday, March 20, 2014

Tide and Tempest Book Review



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 About the Book



Two years ago, her fiance perished during their voyage to America.

Now she discovers it may have been murder...

Dreaming of a better life, Tillie McGrath leaves Ireland behind and, with her beloved fiance by her side, sets sail for America. But when illness robs her of the man she holds dear, she's left alone with only a handful of tattered memories. While forging on proves difficult, Tillie soon finds some new friends at her New York boardinghouse, and begins pursuing a new dream--to open a home for orphaned children.

Despite two years passing, Captain Keondric Morgan has never forgotten the lass who left his ship so heartbroken. When a crewman's deathbed confession reveals her fiance's demise was the result of murder, the captain knows he must try to contact her. But his attention draws the notice of others as well--dangerous men who believe Tillie has in her possession something that could expose their crimes. And to their way of thinking, the best way to prevent such an outcome is to seize the evidence and then hand Tillie the same fate as her naïve fiance.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Tide and Tempest, go HERE.




 My Review
I have read the first book in this series but I felt like they could all be read apart from each other. I really enjoy the setting and the men characters in Ludwig's books. For some reason it's really hard to relate to the women characters and this book was a lot like the first in that aspect. While I liked the history and characters this was not my favorite read it seemed a bit slow for me.


"I received this book from CFBA for free in exchange for an honest review."




This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Tide and Tempest
Bethany House Publishers (March 4, 2014)
by
Elizabeth Ludwig


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Elizabeth Ludwig is an award-winning author whose work has been featured on Novel Rocket, the Christian Authors Network, and The Christian Pulse. Her first novel, Where the Truth Lies (co-authored with Janelle Mowery), earned her the 2008 IWA Writer of the Year Award. This book was followed in 2009 by "I'll be Home for Christmas", part of the Christmas anthology collection, Christmas Homecoming.

In 2011, her second mystery, Died in the Wool (co-authored with Janelle Mowery) was nominated for a Carol Award. In 2012, the popular EDGE OF FREEDOM series released from Bethany House Publishers. Books one and two, No Safe Harbor and Dark Road Home, respectively, earned 4 Stars from the RT Book Reviews. Book three, Tide and Tempest, received top honors with 4 1/2 Stars.

Elizabeth is an accomplished speaker and teacher, often attending conferences and seminars where she lectures on editing for fiction writers, crafting effective novel proposals, and conducting successful editor/agent interviews. Along with her husband and children, she makes her home in the great state of Texas.



Tuesday, March 18, 2014

Cleaning My Bookshelves 4 Book Giveaway



*UPDATE* 
Congrats Linda! I sent you an email to get your address. Thanks to all who entered!


We have been doing a lot of rearranging in our house-where did all of this stuff come from?! I don't like to get rid of books but I need more shelf space for the new ones. I picked a few that I know I won't read again (even though they are good books) and decided to give them away. I'm so excited to see new followers on my blog and I wish I could give all of you a book! Thanks for stopping by and reading what I have to say. 

One person will receive all of the following paperback books: 

The Cowboy's Healing Ways by Brenda Minton (Love Inspired)

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The Widow of Gettysburg by Jocelyn Green 

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In the Shadow of Jezebel by Mesu Andrews

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Friend Me by John Faubion


Friend Me



The giveaway ends March 25th at midnight. US only please.

Enter through the rafflecopter below!




a Rafflecopter giveaway

Monday, March 17, 2014

Cassie and Caleb Discover God's Wonderful Design




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 About the Book

May our sons in their youth be like plants full grown, our daughters like corner pillars cut for the structure of a palace." Psalm 144:12

Boys and girls, from 5 to 8 years of age, will love the fun world of Cassie and Caleb, two energetic and inquisitive children discovering the beauty of God's wonderful design. Through twenty beautifully illustrated short stories, followed by an interactive time between parent and child, your children will learn:


The creational principle that "God created man in his own image . . . male and female he created them" (Genesis 1:27) is extraordinary!
That Jesus is in all of Scripture. The Bible is not a collection of disconnected stories; it is the one big story of the Triune God redeeming His people.
God's Word is our authority and His Glory is our purpose.
That when we belong to Jesus we belong to His covenant family, the Church.
A Biblical framework for living and thinking.
The authors do not underestimate the power of the Holy Spirit in the heart and mind of a child. This book intentionally uses the rich language of faith, and then builds meaning around the words and concepts as the stories proceed, providing children the words of life.(Goodreads)


My Review
  
I really enjoy book that teach young children about the Bible and create a good example. I really loved everything about this book. It starts with the main verse:
 
May our sons in their youth be like plants full grown, our daughters like corner pillars cut for the structure of a palace." Psalm 144:12

 This verse is thought about until the last chapter as Cassie and Caleb think about what it means. This book also covers other verses and topics such as: Why God created men and women differently, honoring God with everything you do (don't sloppily do your chores), helping others, and making the right choices when faced with a decision. These are just a few of the topics, backed with Bible verses and an understandable approach for 5-8 year old children. Personally I got something about of these book mainly about the discussion on Psalm 144:12 and what it means to be a pillar. 
At the end of each chapter is a Lets Talk area for questions, Bible reading, and praying. This would be a great book to read with your kids daily, it's 20 chapters. 

I loved it, I agreed with the Biblical truth and I'm excited for my nephews to read it!

"I received this book from MP Newsroom for free in exchange for an honest review."









Sunday, March 16, 2014

Heart's Rebellion Book Review




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About the Book


Dutiful Jessamine Barry is tired of waiting patiently for a man to decide her future. So even though Lancelot Marfleet, second son of an aristocrat, is taking an interest in her during the London season, she refuses to consider him as a suitor. Instead, she's ready to take fashionable society by storm--and finds a rakish young man all too willing to help her do it. When things go too far, Jessamine will learn that the man who is faithful through thick and thin is more worthy than the one who speaks pretty words. But will her disgrace keep Lance from reconsidering her as a wife? And when tragedy strikes and Lance becomes his father's heir and a titled gentleman, will he think she only wants him now because of his title? (Goodreads)

 


My Review


Ruth Axtell has been a favorite author of mine, even with her earliest work. While regency romance and history is all the rage these days, Ruth has been writing about this time period for awhile. Honestly, there are only so many regency books I can read before they are all the same. This book was a huge disappointment for me. I wish I could say otherwise but the characters didn't have a depth and the storyline was very predictable. Don't get me wrong, predictable books can be really good, but this one was just lacking. I know Axtell can write wonderful rich stories so perhaps I was expecting too much from this book. I did enjoy the secondary characters and the descriptions of some of the outfits. If you enjoy anything regency and romance you will like this book. I rate it three stars. 



 Find out more about the author at her website.


"I received this book from Revell for free in exchange for an honest review."

When Others Shuddered Book Review


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About the Book


When Others Shuddered: Eight Women Who Refused to Give Up is the story of eight women called to serve God and who, in doing so, changed the world. They lived at the turn-of-the-century, rubbing shoulders with the well-known men of their time like John Rockefeller, Marshall Field, and Dwight Lyman Moody.

 Each of these women was unique. They were single and married, black and white, wealthy and poor, beautiful and plain, mothers and childless. Yet, each felt called to make a difference and to do something - to meet a pressing need in her world.

These women wanted to live lives less ordinary. Their stories inspire us to follow God's calling in our own lives. They teach us that each individual person can make a difference. These eight women will show you how God can use your life to change the world. (Goodreads)


My Review

 I was really excited about this book because the cover is one of my favorites and who doesn't want to read about strong women? This book is about eight women who did what they thought was right even if others thought differently. Fanny Crosby, Emeline Dryer, Nancy McCormick, Sarah Clarke, Amanda Smith, Virginia Asher, Evangeline Booth, and Mary Bethune are the women whose stories have gone unnoticed by many. I love history so I did enjoy this book. The only thing is they are all mostly from Chicago and about Dwight L. Moody or somehow related back to him. He was in every person's story, which is neat but I had been hoping for a bit more diversity. In any case my favorite person to read about was Virginia Asher who was one of the women who was at the Chicago World's Fair to talk to others about Christ. What I loved is how she didn't limit herself to who she talked with and was a favorite among prostitutes because she was kind and helpful. 
There are pictures also in the book that I liked because it helped me visualize the women. 

If you like history and enjoy reading about strong women who honored the Lord you will enjoy this book. 

"I received this book from MP Newsroom for free in exchange for an honest review."


















Wednesday, March 12, 2014

How Sweet the Sound Book Review

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About the Book

From a distance, the Harlans appear to be the perfect Southern family. Wealth and local fame mask the drama and dysfunction swirling through their family line. But as the summer heats up, a flood tide of long hidden secrets surface.

Devastation from a rape followed by the murder of two family members brings three generations of the Harlans together on their pecan plantation in Bay Spring, Alabama. Chief among them is Anniston, who by the time she turned thirteen thought she’d seen it all. But as her heart awakens to the possibility of love, she begins to deal with her loneliness and grief.

This tender coming-of-age tale, inspired by the story of Tamar in 2 Samuel 13, shows how true healing and hope comes only from God. Though our earthly family can wound and disappoint, our heavenly Father brings freedom to those long held captive through His mercy and grace.

If you would like to read the first chapter of How Sweet the Sound, go HERE.


My Review
What a fantastic read! I really had no idea what to expect from this debut author. Usually the setting of the 1970s is not my favorite to read about but this book blew me away. The characters are very well developed and I felt like I knew them personally. The main focus is on Comfort and Anniston who are related but have experienced very different lives. The secondary characters tested my patience but in the end I really enjoyed what each person brought to the story line. I don't want to give anything away but this story is based off the story of Tamar in the Bible who is raped by her brother. This book does not shy away from the realities of rape, death, and hardship.  
How Sweet the Sound is on my favorite shelf and I give it five plus stars. 

If you are looking for a book with deeper meaning and strong characters this is the book for you!




Learn more about the author. 
Website
Facebook
Buy the Book

"I received this book from CFBA for free in exchange for an honest review."



This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
How Sweet the Sound
David C. Cook (March 1, 2014)
by
Amy K. Sorrells


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

An Indianapolis native and graduate of DePauw University, Amy lives with her husband, three boys and a gaggle of golden retrievers in central Indiana. After writing and editing for her college newspaper, she combined a nursing degree with journalism and creative writing, which led to publishing and editing a wide array of medical and nursing writing and multimedia projects over the past 21 years, a position as director of communications of her church’s children’s ministry, as well as a weekly column for a local newspaper which ran from 2009-2012. She has been a two-time semi-finalist for the ACFW Genesis awards, and was the winner of the 2011 Women of Faith writing contest.

When she’s not reading or writing, Amy loves spending time with her three sons; spicy lunches and art gallery walks with her husband; digging in her garden sans gloves; walking her dogs; up-cycling old furniture and junk; photography; and friends.



Monday, March 10, 2014

A Broken Kind of Beautiful Book Review





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About the Book


Fashion is a fickle industry, a frightening fact for twenty-four-year-old model Ivy Clark. Ten years in and she's learned a sacred truth -- appearance is everything. Nobody cares about her broken past as long as she looks beautiful for the camera. This is the only life Ivy knows -- so when it starts to unravel, she'll do anything to hold on. Even if that means moving to the quaint island town of Greenbrier, South Carolina, to be the new face of her stepmother's bridal wear line -- an irony too rich for words, since Ivy is far from the pure bride in white. (Goodreads)

My Review
I got this book in the mail, opened the package, started reading, and never stopped. It's that fantastic. Katie Ganshert has written a heart wrenching, realistic, God embraced, romance that completely captivated me. The characters all have such depth that is put together in just one book and the story line is so important to women to read. Ivy is a model she has the "perfect life" but underneath it all she is so empty. She has been captivating men since she was in her teens and with a loveless father she is a broken woman. 
This book takes the reader to the heart of body image and how magazines etc. interpret beauty.  I have a real passion about this topic and the story hits so close to home that I loved it all the more. God thinks you are worthy and loved and beautiful even though sometimes it takes awhile to realize He is there. It's not that easy and Katie takes this book and shows that it's not easy and life is hard and confusing and painful. 
I really enjoy Ganshert's writing, she does not give away details all in the first chapter. Katie actually creates a story that builds over the pages and adds realistic twists to the story. 

I loved every part of this book and I recommend it to any woman as a must read. 

Look for it in stores April 15, 2014.

Find out more:

"I received this book from Blogging for Books for free in exchange for an honest review."
















Sunday, March 9, 2014

In the Shadow of Jezebel Book Review




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About the Book

Princess Jehosheba wants nothing more than to please the harsh and demanding Queen Athaliah, daughter of the notorious Queen Jezebel. Her work as a priestess in the temple of Baal seems to do the trick. But when a mysterious letter from the dead prophet Elijah predicts doom for the royal household, Jehosheba realizes that the dark arts she practices reach beyond the realm of earthly governments. To further Athaliah and Jezebel’s strategies, she is forced to marry Yahweh’s high priest and enters the unfamiliar world of Yahweh’s temple. Can her new husband show her the truth and love she craves? And can Jehosheba overcome her fear and save the family–and the nation–she loves?(Goodreads)



 My Review

 Biblical fiction is not always the first book I pick up, but I enjoy some. This book landed right in the middle for me as parts of the book were slow and I thought it was a bit hard to follow. There are a lot of characters (there is a full list in the front in case you get confused). While I like Sheba's character, I liked the secondary characters more. I enjoyed the Biblical history, very well researched. I need to go and read about this part in the Bible, it's not something I know much about. 

Overall if you like Biblical fiction you will enjoy this book, if they are not your typical read you probably wouldn't like it. 

This is the fourth book in the Treasure of His Love Series. 


"I received this book from Revell for free in exchange for an honest review."









Saturday, March 8, 2014

Raw Faith Book Review



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About the Book


As a respected Bible teacher, Kasey Van Norman had dedicated her life to sharing God's Word and encouraging women to trust in God during times of crisis. Then, just as her ministry was poised to explode, Kasey was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer that shattered her spirit and rocked her faith to its core. Sick, frightened, and in pain, Kasey suddenly found herself facing the greatest challenge of her life--"believing her own message."In "Raw Faith," Kasey chronicles her courageous battle with cancer, taking readers on a candid and poignant journey of faith and discovery, from the depths of despair through triumphant victory.Drawing on a variety of Bible stories and characters, Kasey discovers and distills the singular truth that has existed since time began: while change and uncertainty are inevitable, God is "always" unchanging, and He is "always" faithful--even when our circumstances might tempt us to think otherwise. (Goodreads)


My Review


What a great book written by a person I would love to meet one day. Kasey Van Norman has told her story in her previous book Named By God. In this book she talks about her battle with cancer that completely tipped her world upside down. This was a huge test of faith, I can't imagine what it must be like to wonder how long you will live. 
There were so many encouraging parts to this book full of verses and personality. Kasey talks about God's promises and lists the many verses that tie in with those promises. 

"We think that if things go our way, then God is faithful. If they don't then he must not be listening-or he must not be powerful enough to do anything about it...(But for the Christian) it's built on the bedrock that God is who he says he is and that he will do everything he has promised." Raw Faith


"When we stop trusting God for our future and instead choose to go our own way, we will inevitably run out of resources." Raw Faith


Kasey tells her story and it shows how powerful God is even in the worst of times. 

I highly recommend!

Look for this book April 1, 2014!

"I received this book from Tyndale Publishing for free in exchange for an honest review."




































Sunday, March 2, 2014

Distortion Book Review




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About the Book

When Juliet Cole’s husband of fifteen years is gunned down in a dark parking lot before her eyes, she thinks it was a random shooting. Devastated and traumatized, she answers hours of questioning. When she’s finally allowed to return home to break the news to her boys, she hears a voicemail that takes the situation from a random shooting to a planned, deliberate attack. ‘Mrs. Cole, we know you have access to the supply and the money. If you don’t turn fifty million over to us and give us the codes, then you’ll be burying more family members.’ Suddenly, Juliet realizes that she and her children could be in danger. She teams up with her sisters and PI Michael Hogan to dig into the sham Bob has been living for years. The more she learns, the worse the betrayal. A drug trafficking history, a fortune in cash, and a secret family all emerge to turn Juliet’s belief system on its head, and threaten the things she loves.
Are she and her sisters skilled enough as sleuths to get to the truth? (Goodreads)



My Review

What a fantastic book!! I haven't read anything by Terri Blackstock and this one was superb on every level. Fast moving suspense with every page. This is the second book in this series though it could be read alone. I am going to go back and read the first one because it has the same people in it and is talked about in Distortion. The characters are great, I love how the family pulls together when tragedy strikes. After the murder the story continues to spiral for Juliet and her kids. Right when you think things can't get any worse, they do! Juliet and her sister become sleuths on trying to figure out exactly who her husband was, since apparently she had no idea!

If you love suspense this is a fantastic book. I highly recommend!


Stop by Terri's website to learn more about her books.  

Look for this book March 14, 2014!


"I received this book from Litfuse for free in exchange for an honest review."  







Don't miss Terri Blackstock's latest release in the Moonlighters series, Distortion.

The book releases March 11th, and Terri will be kicking off the release with a fun Facebook Distortion party and giving away a Kindle Fire HDX. PLUS readers can pre-order the ebook for just $4.99 between now and 3/11 everywhere ebooks are sold.

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One winner will receive:
  • A brand new Kindle Fire HDX
  • Distortion and Truth Stained Lies by Terri Blackstock
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 11th. Winner will be announced at the Distortion Facebook Party on March 11th. Connect with Terri for a "suspenseful" book launch party with prizes, a book chat, and more.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today by clicking JOIN on the event page. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 11th!

Saturday, March 1, 2014

An Invisible Hand Book Review





 
An Invisible Hand
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About the Book
 
 
 
An Invisible Hand is a new Christian novella by Kathy Golden. It’s the story of a young lady who goes shopping one day, and healings start taking place in her presence. Not only does she not understand why they are happening, but there’s a particular aspect of this healing “gift,” she’s not at all pleased with.

This novella is scheduled for release in May 2014. You can receive updates at http:wwww.aninvisiblehandbykathygolden.com.


My Review

Kathy was so kind in offering for me to review her new book An Invisible Hand. This is a not a book I would typically pick up at the store but I wanted to read something different. I think this book could create a lot of controversy with what people believe but I chose to have an open mind and enjoy the book. The main story line is about a woman who is suddenly able to heal others of which she has no control because God is doing it through her. Do I think it's possible to for miracles to happen? Yes. I think sometimes people take advantage of being miracle workers in order to make money. This is also put in the book which I liked because it shows how people take advantage of things that really are possible through Christ. The other part of the book is centered around the main characters romance and that is the part that did not interest me so much. I do like the character growth throughout the story with her faith in God. 
I received an ARC copy but I see this author becoming a better writer the more she writes. I did enjoy this book and was pleasantly surprised with the overall story line. I rate four stars. 

"I received a copy of this book from the author for free in exchange for an honest review."







BzzAgent Tone Petal Soft with Pink Peony & Rose Oil

 


I got to try Tone Petal Soft with Pink Peony & Rose Oil Body Wash! I had never even heard of their body washes before but I really like this brand! The smell is fresh, though this is the only scent I've tried. The price is right for this huge bottle- less than four dollars at Wal-mart. 
If you are in search of a new body wash I do recommend Tone® moisturizing body wash .


"I received for free from BzzAgent"

 

Scraps of Evidence Book Review



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About the Book


Tess has taken some ribbing from her fellow officer, Logan, for her quilting hobby. He finds it hard to align the brisk professional officer he patrols with during the day with the one who quilts in her off-time. Besides, he s been trying to get to know her better and he d like to be seeing her during those few nights a week she spends with her quilting guild. Then one afternoon Tess and Logan visit her aunt in the nursing home, and the woman acts agitated when Tess covers her with the story quilt. Aunt Susan is attempting to communicate a message to them about Tess s uncle. There s a story behind this quilt, they realize, one that may lead them to a serial killer. Will they have a chance to have a future together, or will the killer choose Tess for his next victim before they find him? (Goodreads)


My Review

This book was a pleasant surprise! I really enjoyed the characters and the suspenseful story line. The love story is sweet but the story does focus on the current homicide that the two detectives are dealing with. Tess lost her friend on the night of high school prom and ever since she has been trying to find the killer. When another victim shows up with the same signs Tess and her new partner uncover the past. I love how the author incorporated the quilt in with this book (I can't giveaway details) but it was a very creative idea. While full of suspense, it's slightly predictable (at least it was for me) but the quilt added a twist. For a short suspense with a touch of romance this makes for a good read!

"I received this book from Litfuse free in exchange for an honest review."






Barbara Cameron's Scraps of Evidence is the newest book in the Quilts of Love line, and Barbara is celebrating with an "intriguing" Kindle HDX giveaway!
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One winner will receive:
  • A Kindle Fire HDX
  • Scraps of Evidence by Barbara Cameron
  • Tempest's Course by Lynette Sowell
  • Aloha Rose by Lisa Carter
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 8th. Winner will be announced on the Quilts of Love blog on March 10th.
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Spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning.