She Shall Be Praised Book Review

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About the Book

When socialite Emma Crowell stops the carriage on the way to Portland to 'exercise' her new puppy, the last thing she expects is to be left behind in decidedly unsuitable attire, let alone kidnapped. Fortunately, she is soon found by local rancher Peter Lowery. Unfortunately, he has no intention of abandoning his livelihood to take her back to civilization until the fall. He will, however, provide food, shelter and safety, and in return he expects Emma to earn her keep.


Emma is surprised to find she enjoys the challenges of life at the cabin and feels drawn to Peter and his young son Robby. But though willing to learn, no matter how she tries, she never seems to live up to expectations. As Emma seeks God's guidance and aspires to the picture of womanhood shown in the 31st chapter of Proverbs, Peter comes to realize that he may be underestimating the strength and character behind this woman's beauty.  (Goodreads)

 My Review

Look at this cover. Amazing! This is one of my all time favorite book covers, I wanted to jump into the picture. Now for the story line. This book is unique in a few ways. The main character Emma has been raised as a wealthy young lady. When she heads out west in a carriage things do not go as planned. Traveling with a puppy in a carriage is one thing but getting lost in the woods because of this puppy causes some problems. This part of the story was a bit unrealistic to me as she is kidnapped by thieves, and then rescued by a rancher, Peter. In any case it's about her struggles to survive in the woods for the entire summer. Her attitude really grated on my nerves until the end of the book where she finally didn't act like a snob. I know this was the point of the author but her constant, "that's impossible" drove me nuts. I loved the setting and I actually liked Peter throughout the book. Overall the story line was a tad slow but still entertaining. 

I rate 3 1/2 stars. 

I will say you don't need to read the previous books in the serious to enjoy this book.

 Learn more.

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

I'm Nobody Book Review

Caleb Reed is losing his mind. At least that’s what his parents think. For one thing, he’s scared of everything. In fact, he hasn’t stepped foot outside his house in over seven years. And now there’s the notes, strange poetic notes written by someone named Emily Dickinson. Are the notes from Iris, the YouTube obsessed 8th grader that’s been trying to make a documentary of...more About the Book

Caleb Reed is losing his mind. At least that’s what his parents think. For one thing, he’s scared of everything. In fact, he hasn’t stepped foot outside his house in over seven years. And now there’s the notes, strange poetic notes written by someone named Emily Dickinson. Are the notes from Iris, the YouTube obsessed 8th grader that’s been trying to make a documentary of his messed up life? Has his deceased older sister returned from the grave to deliver some sort of message? Or are the pages really from the pen of Emily Dickinson, the reclusive and long dead 19th century poet? With his sanity in question, Caleb Reed’s entire existence depends on finding an answer. (Goodreads)

My Review

I really loved this book because it was different. This is a young adult novel about Caleb's unique life and how he starts receiving notes possibly written by Emily Dickinson?! I love how this book captured the age of an 8th grader and the attitudes that adults have in life. The mystery behind this book was fun and unique, most young people wouldn't even know who Emily Dickinson is or about the life she lived. Since I knew a bit of her background I enjoyed the book all the more. The details made me laugh and I really loved Caleb's character. The cover is perfect and I really just enjoyed this book overall.

If you enjoy young adult fiction, I think you will enjoy this book.

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

Strangers At My Door Book Review

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 About the Book

Jesus Told Us Where to Find Him. What If He Really Meant It?
 
Jesus is never far away. Just look for an outcast.

His first followers knew that Jesus could be found with the fatherless, the widows, and the hungry and homeless. He said that he himself was a stranger, and commended those who welcomed him. If he really meant these things, what would happen if you opened your door to every person who came with a need?

Jonathan and Leah Wilson-Hartgrove decided to find out. The author and his wife moved to the Walltown neighborhood in Durham, North Carolina, where they have been answering the door to anyone who knocks. When they began,  they had little idea what might happen. But they counted on God to show up.

In Strangers at My Door, Wilson-Hartgrove tells of risks and occasional disappointments. But far more often there is joy, surprise, and excitement as strangers become friends, mentors, and helpers. Immerse yourself in these inspiring, eye-opening accounts of people who arrive with real needs, but ask only for an invitation to come in. You will never view Jesus and the people he cares about the same way again. (Goodreads)

My Review

 

What a great book. I love the idea of having a home for others to stay in even in difficult situations. This book takes this idea and puts it into reality. This couple moves into the part of town not many people choose to live in. Guys sell drugs on the corner and people get shot. But this couple sees the people for who they really are and think there is much more to them than being tagged the "guy on the street". This book is full of the people that stayed in their home and the things that happened. I LOVED everything about this book.I wish I had the courage to do the same to those that have no where to stay and show God's love.

Five stars.

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

A Place in His Heart Book Review

ABOUT THE BOOK

Anglican Mary Langton longs to marry for love. Puritan Barnabas Horton is still in love with his deceased wife and needs only a mother for his two young sons. And yet these two very different people with very different expectations will take a leap of faith, wed, and then embark on a life-changing journey across the ocean to the Colonies. Along the way, each must learn to live in harmony, to wait on God, and to recognize true love where they least expect to find it.

This heartfelt tale of love and devotion is based on debut author Rebecca DeMarino's own ancestors, who came to Long Island in the mid-1600s to establish a life--and a legacy--in the New World.

If you'd like to read the first chapter of A Place in His Heart, go HERE.

Rebecca is hosting a Giveaway worth over $300.00 in prizes. There will be 8 winners! Scroll to the bottom of the post HERE to enter!!!!!






My Review


The thing I love about this book is that it is based upon Rebecca DeMarino's ancestors. I love ancestry history and would love to be able to track my relatives back that far! I enjoy the setting of this book, while 1600s are not my favorite time period I still enjoy the history. Mary and Barnabas meet each other and form an unlikely union and get married. Their romance is a nice addition to the story but I was interested more in their trip to the New World. While the middle part of the book was a bit slow for me it picked up in the end and was a more enjoyable read.

I rate 4 stars.

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








This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing A Place in His Heart Revell (June 3, 2014) by Rebecca DeMarino

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Rebecca DeMarino was born in Pensacola, Florida, the daughter of a Navy pilot. Her mother made a home for the family of six all over the map, including Virginia, Nevada, California, Washington, and Guam, before her parents put down anchor on a ranch in Oregon.

As the wife of a young Air Force officer, married life brought more travel. She relied on her mother’s example of how to make a home anywhere. Her three beautiful daughters were born in Florida, Alaska and Nebraska.

Retired after sixteen years with a major airline, she manages to fulfill her love of wanderlust with frequent family or research trips.

Rebecca grew up listening to her mother’s family lore of a great-grandfather from generations ago. Barnabas Horton sailed from England in the 1600’s, to Long Island, N.Y., on a ship called The Swallow. In 1999, after she found Horton Point, L.I., on a map, Rebecca and her mother made the journey to see the lighthouse named after their ancestor.

The legend goes that Barnabas brought a slab of blue slate with him from England, and had the epitaph he wrote himself engraved on it. The blue slate still exists in the Old Cemetery in Southold, L.I., with the Bible verse, “He being dead, still speaketh.” Much information was found about Barnabas, but none of his wife, save a mention in his will.

Her mother passed away in 2005, but Rebecca returned to Southold many times, drawn by her Puritan roots and English heritage. Each time she wondered about her ninth great-grandmother, a young woman who married a widower with two young boys and then followed them for the wilds of Long Island, leaving behind her home and family. What were her dreams? Her motivations? Her fears?

Rebecca’s historical romance novel, A PLACE IN HIS HEART, debuts with Revell, a division of Baker Publishing House, in June of 2014.

D.L. Moody Book Review

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 About the Book

He burst upon the fusty corridors of Victorian spirituality like a breath of fresh air, regaling one prime minister with his sense of humor, and touching the lives of seven presidents.

Who was this man? A sterling philanthropist and educator, D. L. Moody was also the finest evangelist in the nineteenth century-bringing the transformative message of the gospel before 100 million people on both sides of the Atlantic in an age long before radio and television. Thousands of underprivileged young people were educated in the schools he established. Before The Civil War, he went to a place no one else would: the slums of Chicago called Little Hell. The mission he started there, in an abandoned saloon, in time drew children in the hundreds and prompted a visit from President-elect Abraham Lincoln in 1860. But all this is just to begin to tell the life of D.L. Moody. Drawing on the best, most recent scholarship, D. L. Moody - A Life chronicles the incredible journey of one of the great souls of history. (Goodreads)

My Review

I enjoy biographies because I think people are interesting. You never really know what goes on in a person's life until you get a new glimpse into the time period and history. D.L. Moody was a much more interesting man than I had every thought. I had no idea where he grew up or came from and it was interesting to learn how he came to believe in Christ. While many biographies are written differently I liked how this book is organized. Some of the chapters were a bit long and there were a few slow moving parts but it was still an enjoyable read.

If you enjoy biographies you will find this book interesting!

 

★★★★☆, I liked it a lot.

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

50 Things You Need to Know About Heaven Book Review

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About the Book

50 Things You Need to Know About Heaven by Dr. John Hart

Answers to Your Questions About Heaven

We all want to know what happens after we die. Will we go to heaven? What will we do there? Will we see our loved ones?

It turns out the Bible is filled with answers to your most important questions, explaining what heaven looks like, who will be there, and how to get there in the first place. In this book you will find clear explanations of these passages, giving you an honest and beautiful picture of our eternal home.

Find comfort and peace in the truth about heaven.

My Review

I have been thinking about heaven a lot these days because of a discussion in a recent Bible study. This book became available at the perfect time and I was really excited to read it. This book is not one of those where the author is assuming what will happen in heaven.Dr. John Hart took actual Bible verses and then explained them. The thing I liked the most with this book is I know that there are many verses that talk about heaven but I have no idea where to look. With this book it's organized and separated by section so you actually know where to look. I really enjoyed this book because it's straight out of the Bible.

★★★★★, I loved it.  

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

Finding Spiritual Whitespace Book Review

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 About the Book 

Move beyond Surviving to a Rejuvenating Place of Soul Rest

How many of us find ourselves running on empty with no time for rest, no time for ourselves, no time for God?

Bonnie Gray knows what that's like. On the brink of fulfilling a lifelong dream, she saw her plans shatter into a journey through painful memories and anxiety. In her search for answers, she made an important discovery: we all need spiritual whitespace.

Whitespace. It's the space on a page left unmarked. Untouched. Whitespace makes art beautiful. It gives the eye a place to rest. Just like beautiful art, our souls need balance and beauty.

With heartbreaking honesty, Bonnie guides you to discover a better story for yourself, one that feeds your soul and makes room for rest. Infused with biblical encouragement and thought-provoking prompts, this book shows us how to create space in the everyday for God, refreshment, and faith--right in the midst of our stress-frayed lives.






My Review

 I really wanted to love this book. I enjoyed the first few chapters and the cover is beautiful. I found this book to be honest, which I like, and personal. The author made this book to be personal for each person who reads it. After each chapter are questions to ask yourself relating to each topic and then things to talk to God about. 
I wish I could write more about this book but while I enjoyed Bonnie's ideas nothing really stuck out to me aside from the questions at the end of each chapter. In order to really enjoy this book you have to make it personal.

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

Bridge to Haven Book Review

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About the Book

To those who matter in 1950s Hollywood, Lena Scott is the hottest rising star to hit the silver screen since Marilyn Monroe. Few know her real name is Abra. Even fewer know the price she's paid to finally feel like she's somebody.

To Pastor Ezekiel Freeman, Abra will always be the little girl who stole his heart the night he found her, a wailing newborn abandoned under a bridge on the outskirts of Haven. Zeke and his son, Joshua--Abra's closest friend--watch her grow into an exotic beauty. But Zeke knows the circumstances surrounding her birth etched scars deep in her heart, scars that leave her vulnerable to a fast-talking bad boy who proclaims his love and lures her to Tinseltown.

Hollywood feels like a million miles from Haven, and naive Abra quickly learns what's expected of an ambitious girl with stars in her eyes. But fame comes at an awful price. She has burned every bridge to get exactly what she thought she wanted. Now, all she wants is a way back home.

In this riveting and highly anticipated tale of temptation, grace, and unconditional love, "New York Times" best-selling author Francine Rivers delivers big-canvas storytelling at its very best. (Goodreads)

My Review

I couldn't wait for this book to come out! I love Francine Rivers, while some of her books are better than others, they really are all good. One of my favorite books ever is Redeeming Love by Francine and this book is a close second behind! I think this was a midnight book for me as I couldn't put it down. I love the characters and the setting. I love how real this book is and how Francine creates characters with such emotional depth. I wanted to cry and laugh many times throughout the book. I also really like how the era of the 1950s is portrayed, it gave me a good look into that time period. 

★★★★★, I loved it.

I highly recommend!! It's one of River's best!

Find out more at Francine's Website.

It Had To Be You Book Review

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About the Book

Eden Christiansen never imagined her role as her younger brother Owen's cheerleader would keep her on the sidelines of her own life. Sure, it feels good to be needed, but looking after the reckless NHL rookie leaves little time for Eden to focus on her own career. She dreamed of making a name for herself as a reporter, but is stuck writing obits--and starting to fear she doesn't have the chops to land a major story. If only someone would step up to mentor Owen . . . but she knows better than to expect help from team veteran and bad-boy enforcer Jace Jacobsen.Jace has built his career on the infamous reputation of his aggressive behavior--on and off the ice. Now at a crossroads about his future in hockey, that reputation has him trapped. And the guilt-trip he's getting from Eden Christiansen isn't making things any easier. But when Owen's carelessness leads to a career-threatening injury and Eden stumbles upon a story that could be her big break, she and Jace are thrown together . . . and begin to wonder if they belong on the same team after all. (Goodreads)

 My Review

Oh how I have enjoyed this series!! Susan May Warren has written a beautiful family into her fictional story telling and they have become some of my all time favorite books. This book is right up with the first one in being full of depth and character. I enjoyed the setting and getting to know another Christiansen family member. I couldn't put this down, if you haven't read this series yet you need to start!
This book can be read separately from the first but I do recommend reading both! 

 

Stop by Susan's Website.

A Woman of Fortune Book Review

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 About the Book

 

Texas socialite Claire Massey is living the dream. Her world is filled with designer clothes, luxury cars, and stunning homes. But her Neiman-Marcus lifestyle comes crashing down when her charming cattle broker husband is arrested for fraud. Suddenly, she finds herself facing attorneys, a media frenzy, and a trail of broken hearts. Betrayed and humiliated, Claire must start over against incredible odds to save her family–and discover a life worth living.
Poignant and emotionally gripping, A Woman of Fortune reveals the many ways we deceive ourselves and how resilience of the heart is essential to authentic living. Drawing on her experiences as a legal investigator, author Kellie Coates Gilbert delivers emotionally gripping plots and authentic characters. Readers will love Claire’s unbending determination as she strives to keep her family from falling apart and learns to embrace the kind of fortune that lasts. (Goodreads)

My Review

I really loved this book I couldn't put it down. The characters, the setting, and the overall scandal are fabulously written. Based off of the author's personal experience she delves into what life would be like if you husband or significant other is arrested and convicted? What would it be like as the son/daughter? Such a great perspective interwoven with God's love. A couple things in the book seemed unrealistic but in such a situation I imagine people do crazy things. I think Claire's ending seems too easy but who knows. I loved this book. 

I highly recommend!!

 Learn more about the author.
Check out this YouTube Video.

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

The Heart's Pursuit Book Review

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 About the Book

A jilted bride desperate to save her family from ruin.
A bounty hunter seeking vengeance for a ravaged past.
An arduous trek toward justice—or redemption.

Silver Matlock and Jared Newman know traveling together is a bad idea. Bad for Silver’s already tarnished reputation in her small Colorado town. Bad for bounty hunter Jared’s secret, single-minded mission for revenge. But Silver is determined to track down the rogue who left her at the altar and stole the last remnant of her father’s fortune. And Jared’s in a hurry to hunt down the murderer who destroyed his family—even if Silver is too distractingly beautiful for comfort.

The pair takes off over mountain and desert, past bleak homesteads and raw mining towns, hot on the trail of the two villains who took what wasn’t theirs to take. Soon supplies dwindle, secrets emerge, and suspicion leave Silver and Jared at odds when they need each other most. To confront an enemy deadlier than desert rattlesnakes and rocky cliffs, Silver and Jared must learn to forgive and trust and face the question they haven’t dared voice: What happens next?(Goodreads)

 My Review

I really enjoy Robin's writing because her stories have meaning and more depth than others. This book, while I enjoyed the idea, the characters I didn't like as much. The thought of a woman running off with a bounty hunter in search of a man is funny as well as obviously difficult at the time. Hatcher does a good job at portraying the difficulties of riding for weeks on a horse in every kind of weather. I thought there were too many story lines going on throughout the book. One story would get started and I would be getting into the little plot line and then all of the sudden it would be over and on to the next. Because of this the entire story seemed really rushed and the ending not as strong. That being said, this book is humorous with a dash of romance on the side. If you enjoy Hatcher's previous books you will enjoy this one as well. 

Three and a half star rating.

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

Robin Lee Hatcher's latest novel, The Heart's Pursuit, is receiving critical praise: "The Old West lives again in this inspirational romantic adventure. . . . Themes of forgiveness, justice and mercy dominate the story and add to the characters' depth. Hatcher treats readers to a rich sensory experience—you can taste the desert dust and smell the smoke and stench of a crowded gambling hall." (Publishers Weekly)

Robin is celebrating the release of her novel by giving away a $200 "Romantic Weekend Getaway."

  One winner will receive:

• A $200 Visa cash card (Get away for the weekend with that special someone!)
• The Heart's Pursuit by Robin Lee Hatcher

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on June 8th. Winner will be announced June 9th on Robin's website.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to stop by Robin's blog on June 8th to see if you won.