Tuesday, March 27, 2018

The Weaver's Daughter Review


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About the Book


Kate's loyalties bind her to the past. Henry's loyalties compel him to strive for a better future. In a landscape torn between tradition and vision, can two souls find the strength to overcome their preconceptions?

Loyalty has been at the heart of the Dearborne family for as long as Kate can remember, but a war is brewing in their small village, one that has the power to rip families asunder --including her own. As misguided actions are brought to light, she learns how deep her father's pride and bitterness run, and she begins to wonder if her loyalty is well-placed.

Henry Stockton, heir to the Stockton fortune, returns home from three years at war seeking refuge from his haunting memories. Determined to bury the past, he embraces his grandfather's goals to modernize his family's wool mill, regardless of the grumblings from the local weavers. When tragedy strikes shortly after his arrival, Henry must sort truth from suspicion if he is to protect his family's livelihood and legacy.

Henry has been warned about the Dearborne family. Kate, too, has been advised to stay far away from the Stocktons, but chance meetings continue to bring her to Henry's side, blurring the jagged lines between loyalty, justice, and truth. Kate ultimately finds herself with the powerful decision that will forever affect her village's future. As unlikely adversaries, Henry and Kate must come together to find a way to create peace for their families, and their village, and their souls - even if it means risking their hearts in the process. (Goodreads)



My Thoughts

I really enjoyed this book! I loved the characters, even the secondary ones. The setting is great and the mystery was well written. Sarah Ladd is talented in writing mysteries in this time period. She doesn't get over the top with her ideas and the general flow of her story lines are well written. I enjoyed learning a bit about weavers and the little notes of history. I felt like the romance side in this book was slightly rushed but I still liked how it all played out in the end. 
I highly recommend Sarah's books and this one was fun to read. 

Four stars. 

"I received this book from the publisher to review. All opinions are my own."







Monday, March 26, 2018

I Can Only Imagine Book Review

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 About the Book

The captivating story behind the bestselling single in the history of Christian music—and the man who wrote it

MercyMe’s crossover hit, “I Can Only Imagine,” has touched millions of people around the world. But few know about the pain, redemption, and healing that inspired it. Now Bart Millard, award-winning recording artist and lead singer of MercyMe, shares how his dad’s transformation from abusive father to man of God sparked a divine moment in music history.

Go behind the scenes of Bart’s life—and the movie based on it—to discover how God repaired a broken family, prepared Bart for ministry through music, and wrote the words on his heart that would change his life forever. I Can Only Imagine is a front-row seat to witnessing God’s presence throughout Bart’s life. Whether falling in love with his childhood sweetheart or mourning his father’s death, founding MercyMe or flailing in the midst of its success, Bart continues to place his trust in God’s plans—plans that continue to surprise and surpass what Bart could have ever imagined.  (Goodreads)


My Thoughts

I love biographies and this book was really well written. I had no idea this story was made into a movie until I got the book. Of course I have listened to MercyMe for a long time so I was curious about the story. This book held my interest simply because of how it was written. Sometimes biography type books can be dreadfully slow, but that was not the case with this one. It truly is amazing how some people's lives turn out, especially after going through so many difficulties. This book is a testament to how awesome God is and how He works in our lives, even if we don't see it at the time. 
After reading the book, I am not sure I want to see the movie. I am one of those whose usually sticks with one or the other. Bart did write that he thinks the movie accurate and the actors did a good job. I just think I will stick with the book on this one though. 
I highly recommend this book and if you are a movie watcher I hear the movie is good too! 

"I received this book from BookLook Bloggers for free. All opinions are my own." 






 

Thursday, March 22, 2018

In Places Hidden Review


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About the Book

On her way to San Francisco to find her brother, Caleb, who went missing three months ago, Camriann Coulter meets Judith and Kenzie, who both have their own mysteries to solve in the booming West Coast city. The women decide to help each other, including rooming together and working at Kenzie's cousin's chocolate factory.

Camri's search for her brother, an attorney, leads her deep into the political corruption of the city--and into the acquaintance of Patrick Murdock, a handsome Irishman who was saved from a false murder charge by Caleb. Patrick challenges all of Camri's privileged beliefs, but he knows more about what happened to her brother than anyone else. Together, they move closer to the truth behind Caleb's disappearance. But as the stakes rise and threats loom, will Patrick be able to protect Camri from the dangers he knows lie in the hidden places of the city? (Goodreads)

 My Thoughts

I have read so many of Tracie's books so I pay attention when she starts a new series. I was intrigued by this story since it is set in San Francisco. This isn't a very long book and really just a quick light read. For me, I didn't love the characters in this story. I loved the setting but other than that I wasn't drawn into their lives, or sympathetic to their situation. 
While I have enjoyed many of Tracie's previous books, her latest stories have really fallen flat for me. The stories don't have much depth and are all together predictable. I know that Tracie is a talented author, and she has a huge fan base. I just feel like she is trying to put out so many books in a year that the quality of her work has turned into light and fast reads that don't hold a ton of depth. As a long time reader I am slightly disappointed. BUT I know she can write a gem of a story so I will hold out hope that one of her future books will be something to treasure!


"I received this book from Bethany House to review. All opinions are my own."






 

Wednesday, March 21, 2018

The Innkeeper's Daughter Review with Celebrate Lit

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About the Book

Title: The Innkeeper’s Daughter
Author: Michelle Griep

Genre: Historical Christian Fiction
Release Date: March 1, 2018
A London officer goes undercover to expose a plot against the Crown
Dover, England, 1808: Officer Alexander Moore goes undercover as a gambling gentleman to expose a high-stakes plot against the king—and he’s a master of disguise, for Johanna Langley believes him to be quite the rogue. . .until she can no longer fight against his unrelenting charm.

All Johanna wants is to keep the family inn afloat, but when the rent and the hearth payment are due at the same time, where will she find the extra funds? If she doesn’t come up with the money, there will be nowhere to go other than the workhouse—where she’ll be separated from her ailing mother and ten-year-old brother.
Alex desperately wants to help Johanna, especially when she confides in him, but his mission—finding and bringing to justice a traitor to the crown—must come first, or they could all end up dead.

Click here to purchase your copy!

About the Author

MichelleGriep
Michelle Griep has been writing since she first discovered blank wall space and Crayolas. She seeks to glorify God in all that she writes—except for that graffiti phase she went through as a teenager. She resides in the frozen tundra of Minnesota, where she teaches history and writing classes for a local high school co-op. An Anglophile at heart, she runs away to England every chance she gets, under the guise of research. Really, though, she’s eating excessive amounts of scones while rambling around a castle. Michelle is a member of ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) and MCWG (Minnesota Christian Writers Guild). Keep up with her adventures at her blog “Writer off the Leash” or visit www.michellegriep.com.


Guest Post from Michelle Griep

Celebrating Oak Apple Day
Spring is just around the corner, or maybe it’s in full bloom in your neck of the woods. Regardless, by this time of year, everyone is ready to celebrate. . .and nothing new is under the sun. For centuries people have been eager to welcome budding greenery and warmth.
In my recent release, The Innkeeper’s Daughter, I incorporated a spring holiday that’s been around for over 500 years in England, one you may never heard of.
Oak Apple Day.
This ancient celebration dates back to the year 1651. At the time, Charles II escaped the Roundhead army by taking cover in an oak tree. Everyone loved ol’ Charlie and was glad he lived, so in his honor, a new national holiday was born—one that in some parts of England is still celebrated today.
Another name for this annual event is Royal Oak Day and the festivities occur every May 29th. Celebration traditions vary from parades to the ringing of bells, but one thing that is standard is that it’s a day to pin an oak leaf on your lapel. If you fail to wear one, you could end up getting pinched.
The hero in my latest release is kind enough to remind the heroine that she forgot to pin on her leaf, thus saving her from untoward pinches. Interested in hearing more about this gallant fellow and the forgetful miss? Here’s a blurb about The Innkeeper’s Daughter
Tension is high with the threat of a Napoleonic attack in Regency England, but risk from abroad means nothing when there’s danger at home.
Officer Alexander Moore goes undercover as a gambling gentleman to expose a high-stakes plot against the crown—and he’s a master of disguise, for Johanna Langley believes him to be quite the rogue . . . until she can no longer fight against his unrelenting charm.
All Johanna wants is to keep the family inn afloat, but when the rent and the hearth payment are due at the same time, where will she find the extra funds? If she doesn’t come up with the money, there will be nowhere to go other than the workhouse—where she’ll be separated from her ailing mother and ten-year-old brother.
Alex desperately wants to help Johanna, especially when she confides in him, but his mission—finding and bringing to justice a traitor to the crown—must come first, or they could all end up dead.
It’s a race against time for them both.

Blog Stops

Mommynificent, March 16
Among the Reads, March 17
Mary Hake, March 17
Karen Sue Hadley, March 18
Kathleen Denly, March 19
Remembrancy, March 20
Book by Book, March 20
Bookworm Mama, March 22
Vicky Sluiter, March 22
Carpe Diem, March 22
Pause for Tales, March 23
margaret kazmierczak, March 23 (Interview)
A Greater Yes, March 24
Simple Harvest Reads, March 26 (Mindy Houng Guest Post)
Pursuing Stacie, March 27
Bigreadersite, March 27
The PhD Mamma, March 28

Giveaway

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To celebrate her tour, Michelle is giving away a grand prize of a signed copy of The Innkeeper’s Daughter and a $25 gift card from Barnes & Noble!!
Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/cb72




My Review





The setting for this book is great and the overall story idea is good. I had a hard time connecting with the characters and completely getting into the book. I have read previous books by this author and have enjoyed her writing. This book just wasn't for me.


Three stars.


I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
































Sunday, March 18, 2018

The Healing Power of Essential Oils Book Review

 
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 About the Book

Eric Zielinski, D.C., host of the Essential Oils Revolution summits, offers a soup-to-nuts guide to mastering essential oils for vibrant health and well-being, featuring dozens of recipes and formulations for restful sleep, reduced inflammation, balanced hormones, and more.

Achieving true health is not an easy task. For many people, it might be easier to pop a pill or push aside lingering discomfort in favor of finishing everything on your to-do list. In The Healing Power of Essential Oils, Eric Zielinski, D.C. shows readers how to make their health a priority with the life-changing benefits of essential oils. Essential oils are the natural solution to everything from anxiety and depression to deep-seated inflammation. For beginners, Dr. Z teaches everything you need to know to get started, including the top seven oils you should stock from Day 1 and the commonly used techniques and tools. He illustrates daily practices you can follow to enjoy the properties of essential oils, including a five-minute devotional using frankincense and neroli to set you up for a productive and stress-free day, and a simple bedtime routine harnessing the soporific effects of lavender.

Backed by extensive research, Dr. Z also supplies essential oil blends that promote hormone balance, reduced inflammation, improved digestion, increased immunity, and so much more. You'll be armed with over 150 recipes for every health need, and a special section on women's health includes dozens of formulations for PMS, fertility, pregnancy, candida, and menopause. Even those well-versed in essential oils will benefit from this thorough approach. With your newfound knowledge, you can begin tailoring an essential oils practice to your unique pain points and lifestyle right away - and start experiencing amazing results. (Goodreads)


 My Thoughts

I have been using essential oils for a few years now. I have mainly been using the most common ones(lemon, peppermint, lavender, eucalyptus, grapefruit, etc.) This past year as my grandma has gotten into the oils she has actually taught me more about them because she studies everything about them all the time. So that being said, I really enjoyed this book. I was actually really surprised at how much info was in this book. Not only is it perfect for newbies but also for those that need something to look back at and reference. The best part of this book is the multitude of recipes and remedies that fill up a good portion of this book. From everything you can imagine, there is a recipe to make it with essential oils. Need hand soap? Shampoo? Deodorizer? Roll on blends?  The author does not promote a certain brand of essential oils BUT he does state what to look for in high quality oils and to not be fooled by the cheap stuff. This book gives a wonderful overview on most questions with essential oils and especially if you are a newbie to oils, this is a great book. 

Five Stars. 

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

 Side Note:
Blogging For Books is closing and this last month was the last time they were letting people review books. I am sad about this, they were the first company I started to review for and who got me into blogging in the first place. While there are so many other publishers and companies out there still doing these things, it seems that change is on the horizon when it comes to blogging in general. I am thankful for all of the books I received from Blogging for Books (167 total!) and for the inspiration to start reviewing books in the first place.




 

Saturday, March 17, 2018

So Much to Celebrate Review



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 About the Book

Celebrations that show your love

Create beautiful memories for your family and friends by stopping to celebrate life’s joyful moments. In this essential guide to entertaining, Katie Jacobs reveals her secrets for throwing fantastic parties for any occasion, from a casual backyard movie night to a lavish holiday party. Using Katie’s inspiring ideas and make-ahead tips, you will be so organized that you can minimize the fuss, enjoy the time, and celebrate too!

Brimming with creative party themes for every season, inspiring décor ideas, and delicious recipes, So Much to Celebrate is the perfect book for anyone who appreciates good times, good food, and good celebrations.



Katie Jacobsis a stylist for Reese Witherspoon’s lifestyle brand Draper James, Pottery Barn, and Beaufort Bonnet Company, among others. A fourth-generation Nashvillian, she’s been featured in Martha Stewart Living, Southern Living Weddings, Nashville Lifestyles as well as on Inspired By This, Fashionable Hostess, and The Scout Guide. Katie is also a photographer, graphic designer, and foodie. Learn more on Katie’s food and lifestyle blog, StylingMyEveryday.com. (Goodreads)


My Thoughts

I love reading books like this! They are colorful easy to read and it is fun to imagine how I might decorate or plan for an event/party. The best part of this book are the unique recipes for food and drink I would never think of making. They look delicious and offer a fresh perspective on snacks and such. A lot of this book didn't seem quite practical to me, but others will love it more than me. This would make a great gift to someone or if you are needing a new idea! Compared to other celebration books, this one isn't my favorite but it is still fun!

"I received this book from BookLook Bloggers to review. All opinions are my own."







Wednesday, March 14, 2018

Amongst the Roses Review

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 About the Book

The War Between the States shakes Margaret Bryant out of her comfortable upper-class life when her father enlists in the Army of the Potomac. Despite being safely ensconced above the Mason-Dixon Line in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, Margaret finds her strength tested by opposition from familiar faces and Confederate threats. Will she let a young man from a lesser station into her heart even as war rages ever nearer to the home front?

Restless Connor Doyle sees the war as a way to escape from his family’s farm and his identity as a poor Irishman’s son. His brother, Adam, torn between duty to country and his family, enlists alongside Connor. Adam dares to hope in a future with Margaret when he begins a courtship correspondence from the war front. The two brothers make a vow to protect one another at all costs, but when faced with death and destruction from all sides—will they be able to uphold it?

The three bloodiest days in America’s history bring these three together at Gettysburg and tragedy’s cruelty threatens to tear two hearts apart—and bring two unlikely allies together. (Goodreads)



Learn More!




My Thoughts


I have really enjoyed Meghan's books so I was excited to see her write a historical novel. This book was very slow for me. I enjoyed the characters, the setting, and the time period but struggled to totally love this book and the story line. I think that Meghan has some great talent so I am eager to read more by her, this just wasn't my favorite. I do recommend reading her previous books and keep an eye out for upcoming releases!

"Thanks to the author for providing me with an e-ARC of the book. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own."



























Sunday, March 11, 2018

The Man He Never Was Review



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 About the Book

What if You Woke up One Morning and the Darkest Parts of Yourself Were Gone?

Toren Daniels vanished eight months back, and his wife and kids have moved on--with more than a little relief. Toren was a good man but carried a raging temper that often exploded without warning. So when he shows up on their doorstep out of the blue, they're shocked to see him alive. But more shocked to see he's changed. Radically.

His anger is gone. He's oddly patient. Kind. Fun. The man he always wanted to be. Toren has no clue where he's been but knows he's been utterly transformed. He focuses on three things: Finding out where he's been. Finding out how it happened. And winning back his family.

But then shards of his old self start to rise from deep inside--like the man kicked out of the NFL for his fury--and Toren must face the supreme battle of his life.

In this fresh take on the classic Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, James L. Rubart explores the war between the good and evil within each of us--and one man's only chance to overcome the greatest divide of the soul. (Goodreads)



My Thoughts

James Rubart has a very unique way of writing. His stories might remind readers a bit of Ted Dekker but are unique in their own way. This wasn't my favorite book he has written but still enjoyable at a 3.5 star rating. At times I felt like the story got a bit slow and perhaps too predictable. The ending seemed rather rushed though I appreciate the general story line. Is this a book I would recommend? Probably not. I enjoyed Rubart's previous novels like Rooms and The Chair more so than this one. 
3.5 Stars.
"I received this book from Booklook in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own."









Thursday, March 8, 2018

Little Critter Little Blessing Collection Review


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 About the Book

Kids love Little Critter! This collection of four InspiredKids Little Critter stories—You Go First, Being Thankful, It’s True!, and We All Need Forgiveness—will help kids learn important truths about being thankful and getting along with others through Little Critter’s funny and endearing antics.

Mercer Mayer’s classic character Little Critter has a little trouble telling the truth, and forgiving his friends, and taking turns, and seeing the blessings all around him!  In the charming and oh-so-funny antics, your kids will learn important life messages as they laugh with our favorite Little Critter.

You Go First!  Little Critter learns that the secret to getting along is treating others the way he wants to be treated?which, in Little Critter’s case, means letting someone else be first.

Being Thankful On a trip to the farm, Grandma helps Little Critter understand what gratitude is and why we should be thankful for all the blessings God has given us.

It’s True! Little Critter learns quickly that lying has consequences and that telling the truth, no matter how hard, is always the right thing to do.

We All Need Forgiveness  Little Critter learns why forgiveness helps heal the one who does the forgiving just as much as the one who needs forgiveness.

Young or old, fans around the world have loved Little Critter since he first came on the scene more than 40 years ago. Little Critter Little Blessings is a great collection and a great value. (Goodreads)


My Thoughts


I have always enjoyed the Little Critter books. This is a great little collection of four stories in typical life lesson form. My favorite story is the one on being thankful. All the topics in this book are important for kids to understand and I like the idea that these books would start conversation. They also are just fun to read over and over like I used to when I was little. A couple of the stories talk more about the Bible than others but the general idea is there. 

Five stars. 

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






Tuesday, March 6, 2018

A Refuge Assured Review



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About the Book

Vivienne Rivard fled revolutionary France and seeks a new life for herself and a boy in her care, who some say is the Dauphin. But America is far from safe, as militiaman Liam Delaney knows. He proudly served in the American Revolution but is less sure of his role in the Whiskey Rebellion. Drawn together, will Liam and Vivienne find the peace they long for? (Goodreads)






My Thoughts

I so enjoyed Jocelyn's last book the Mark of the King. This book I was super excited about and I really did enjoy the overall story line. At times this book moved terribly slow for me, and to be honest was difficult to completely get into in the middle. BUT I loved the history and I really liked the secondary characters. And of course Liam. Vivienne was a difficult character for me to love and I am not sure why. The setting is wonderful and I learned more about lace making which is totally fascinating.
If you like history you will enjoy this book.


Three stars.


"I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for an honest review."



































Monday, March 5, 2018

Lies Women Believe Review


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About the Book

Counter the lies that keep you from abundant living.

Satan is the master deceiver and his lies are endless. And the lies Christian women believe are at the root of most of their struggles.

"Many women live under a cloud of personal guilt and condemnation," says Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth. "Many are in bondage to their past. Others are gripped by fear of rejection and a longing for approval. Still others are emotional prisoners."

In best selling Lies Women Believe, Nancy exposes those areas of deception most commonly believed by Christian women—lies about God, sin, priorities, marriage and family, emotions, and more. She then sheds light on how we can be delivered from bondage and set free to walk in God's grace, forgiveness, and abundant life. Nancy offers the most effective weapon to ounter and overcome Satan's deceptions: God's truth!  (Goodreads)



My Thoughts


This has been a pretty popular book and I was curious to see what it was all about. There were things I liked and things I didn't. This isn't a book I would recommend per se. I thought the author brought up some great things pertaining our society today and comparing it to the Bible and what it says. She brings up the hard stuff that we deal with every day. There are so many aspects in a woman's life and emotions and trying to get everything to go just right. I thought the chapter on sexuality was well written and brought up some important points about how most Christians and churches sweep things under the rug and that doesn't help anyone. The chapter on marriage I had mixed feelings on and at times I thought perhaps the author focused more on what she thought then what the Bible actually says. So no this isn't a book I could recommend but it did have some good stuff in it.


I really am unsure on how to rate this maybe 3 stars.


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






















Friday, March 2, 2018

When God Made Light Children's Book Review

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 About the Book

From the author and illustrator of the best-selling When God Made You comes a new illuminating message about God's design affirming young readers.

'Let there be light!' that's what God said. And light began shining and then started to spread." Wild and creative illustrations from top children's illustrator David Catrow pair with Matthew Paul Turner's lyrical verse in this message of a God-made light that cuts through darkness to bring vision and hope to all young readers. This light radiates, chasing away the shadows, providing the wonder and fun of stargazing or firefly chasing. Most important, this light appears in each child--an inner God-given spark that grows and will be used to change the world. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

This is such a great book with a good message! The illustrations are superb and I can see the littles in my life eagerly turning the pages. This is a great book to bring up what happens when you accept Christ as your Savior as the book talks about the light being in us. It has such a fun happy vibe throughout the book, it's easy to see this being a bestseller! I highly recommend! 

Five stars. 

"I received this book from Blogging for Books. All opinions are my own."





 

Thursday, March 1, 2018

If I Live: Review on the Final Book of The Series


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About the Book

Casey is hiding again—in Memphis this time—but it’s different now. She knows without a doubt that Dylan believes her and is doing all he can to help bring Brent’s killer to justice. He’s become an unexpected friend . . . and even, maybe, something more. Hope makes everything more bearable.
Casey makes a deal with the DA to turn over all the evidence she and Dylan have gathered against Keegan and Rollins—only to discover that the DA is in league with them too. After a desperate escape, who can they possibly turn to now?
Time is running out for Casey, but master suspense writer Terri Blackstock will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the last, utterly satisfying page. (Goodreads)





My Thoughts

This is the highly anticipated conclusion to this thrilling series! My husband and I have both enjoyed these books and were super excited to FINALLY find out what happens! I will say you must start with book one or none of the story will make sense. I have loved all of the books and the suspense will keep you on the edge of your chair and biting your fingernails. I will say I think that I liked the first two books the most, as they were the most suspenseful. The third book wraps everything up nicely, though I did feel it was slightly rushed. The characters are wonderfully written and I love that it is a series my husband and I can both read and enjoy. There is slight romance but nothing over the top, and for that I was thankful as sometimes I think it takes away from the story line instead of adding to it. If you are looking for suspense I highly recommend this series and this author! All of the books I have read by her have been top notch.

Five stars.

"I received this book from BookLook Bloggers. All opinions are my own."