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."

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."

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.

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:

• Author's Website
• Facebook
• More Info
• Read Chapter One
• Author Bio

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

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. 

Read more about the author. 

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

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."

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.

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!

An Invisible Hand Book Review

 

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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!

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.

Spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning.