Tuesday, May 24, 2016

Wise Guys Review and Giveaway



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About the Book

For guys, more than ever, it’s a confusing world. Your GPS doesn’t offer any maps showing how to get to the point of wisdom -- and who likes asking for directions anyway?

But there are ways to get that guidance you need. The answers may be all around you, in the form of guys you already know. Wise guys. More experienced guys. Better-traveled guys. Could there be ways to tap into their invaluable knowledge without enduring dull lectures or taking pages of notes?

Kent Evans has surrounded himself with these wise guys. They have shown him all the back roads on the way to wisdom. With a great deal of humor and an endless supply of stories, he wants to show you how to gather life-enriching truth from the guys in your own circle. (Goodreads)

 ABOUT THE AUTHOR



KENT EVANS is the board chairman and co-founder of Manhood Journey, a ministry that helps fathers and mentors build the next generation of godly men.  Kent has personally experienced how the guidance of godly men can change the course of a life.  Today he is blessed with a solid 20-year marriage, four wonderful sons and a fulfilling life – largely because of what he’s learned from other men.  He lives in Louisville, Kentucky, and can be found on Twitter @manhoodjourney.


SOCIAL – CORNER
Official Website
Amazon
Twitter - @manhoodjourney

My Thoughts

I like the layout of this book, very basic and to the point. I love the whole idea of gaining wisdom from your wise peers around you. It seems difficult to find these days; a wise, Godly man of any age. So on that note I think this books presents what that is and how to know who a wise man is. There are many stories which are somewhat entertaining but not necessarily captivating. I wouldn't say this book drew me in and my husband is still having a hard time getting through it. Honestly, it is full of things we have heard before (not the funny stories of course) but the overall idea. I think for someone who hasn't read a book like this, needs a fun guidance book, or perhaps is a new Christian this would be a great book. 
So I'll say it's a good book, just not a great book. 

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



 GIVEAWAY
US and Canada only please. Giveaway is for one copy of Wise Guys by Kent Evans. 
 



"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.
Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.  If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”






 

Saturday, May 21, 2016

The Memory Book Movie Review and Giveaway

 

 


The Memory Book Synopsis


The Memory Book is a Hallmark Movies & Mysteries film written by Duane Poole and directed by Paul A. Kaufman. In this film, budding photographer Chloe stumbles upon an old photo album from the 1970s while browsing through a flea market one day. Having come from a broken family full of broken romances and relationships, she is intrigued by the couple in the album that seem to have had a perfect relationship. Inspired by the idea of a real-life example of true love, she sets out to find this couple and talk to them. Excited about the prospect of a mystery to solve, Chloe continues on her quest, even meeting a companion by the name of Gabe.

Gabe Sinclair is an unusual yet handsome bartender who is instantly attracted to Chloe. With her needing help on her “mystery”, he instantly signs up to help her on her journey, with the hopes of also forming a relationship. While at first she keeps her distance and does her best to avoid forming any kind of a relationship with Gabe, Chloe eventually finds herself inexplicably taken with this man. Refusing to get too close to him, but also unable to stay too far away, will Chloe ever be able to accept the idea of love and give into happiness?


Giveaway!
 Giveaway is for one copy of The Memory Book DVD. Enter through the Rafflecopter below. If it won't load for you just leave a comment and I'll make sure you are in the drawing! U.S. only please. Thank you!

 

FishFlix has a great selection of Christian Films! 

My Thoughts

I really enjoyed this movie. I don't pay for TV so I never get to watch the Hallmark Channel. So I was super excited that this movie was available via DVD! Also, if you haven't heard of FishFlix, you should check out their website they have a ton of great movies and TV shows.  I love old stories and the Memory Book was so fun. I really liked Chloe's character and how she didn't give up on finding out who the Memory Book belonged to. I liked the deeper story of her learning to let people in her life. I think the acting was great and the whole thing was put together nicely. If you enjoy clean yet solid movies with a touch of romance, this is the movie for you! Highly recommend!!

"I received this DVD from FishFlix for free in exchange for an honest review." 







All that Glitters, a Gold Rush Historical Romance



"A wonderfully unpredictable plotline!"

"All that Glitters was a beautifully written story that speaks of redemption and forgiveness."

"The author draws you in and keeps you engaged to the last page."




About the book:
The world has gone plum crazy over gold. Men and women alike would do almost anything to make their fortune. Leaving behind her family and a dying father, Ginny Connor follows the cunning Logan Harris up North to strike it rich. Twenty-year old Vivian Connor embarks on a cross-country chase to rescue her sister Ginny and they are both led into the chaos of the Klondike Gold Rush.

Meanwhile, Ben McCormack leaves his farm to retrieve his intended bride from a rowdy, tent town on the Alaskan coastline. Ben’s path inadvertently entwines with Vivian’s and he finds his heart tugging him in a different direction.

Danger and disappointment plague all their journeys to the far North. Will Vivian find her sister in time to return home to see their father? Can Ginny forgive herself for the decisions she's made? Will Ben find the lifelong love he searches for? When the world listens only to the call of gold, redemption and love become scarce treasures.

PURCHASE


Chat with the author:

How do you connect with God best? 
I love listening to the Lord speak into my heart during worship.

Which Christian author has influenced you the most? 
I have been a fan of Allison Pittman’s work for years. Even more amazing, The Christian Communicator assigned my novel All That Glitters to her for editorial. Her encouragement and insight helped me develop as a writer and take the leap toward publication.

Are your books only for Christians or would other people also enjoy them? 
My books definitely embrace a Christian worldview; however, the settings and characters are memorable enough for anyone who enjoys a good read.


About the author:
Lisa Flickinger lives in the shadow of the Rockies with her husband Matthew and their dog Zeke. When not writing or reading, you will find her combing antique shops, walking in the woods, or sipping a latte with friends. All That Glitters fulfills the lifelong dream of sharing the characters in her head with you, dear reader. Enjoy!










Friday, May 20, 2016

Understanding Exposure Book Review




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 About the Book


This newly revised edition of Bryan Peterson's most popular book demystifies the complex concepts of exposure in photography, allowing readers to capture the images they want.

Understanding Exposure has taught generations of photographers how to shoot the images they want by demystifying the complex concepts of exposure in photography. In this newly updated edition, veteran photographer Bryan Peterson explains the fundamentals of light, aperture, and shutter speed and how they interact with and influence one another. With an emphasis on finding the right exposure even in tricky situations, Understanding Exposure shows you how to get (or lose) sharpness and contrast in images, freeze action, and take the best meter readings, while also exploring filters, flash, and light. With all new images, as well as an expanded section on flash, tips for using colored gels, and advice on shooting star trails, this revised edition will clarify exposure for photographers of all levels. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

This is a much larger book than I anticipated. There is a ton of info and I thought that the author's wording and explanations were very helpful. The writing is actually rather humorous and it makes this book a lot more fun to read than typical how to books. I think this book would be great for a student or for someone who wants to go beyond the pointing and shooting method. 
Highly recommend! 

Five stars. 

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












Monday, May 16, 2016

Her One and Only Review

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About the Book
Romance Fans Eagerly Anticipate Every New Release from Becky Wade
Gray Fowler, star NFL tight end, is being pursued by a stalker, so his team hires a protection agency to keep Gray under the watch of a bodyguard at all times. When Gray meets Dru Porter, an agent assigned to him, he's indignant. How can an attractive young female half his size possibly protect him?
But Dru's a former Marine, an expert markswoman, and a black belt. She's also ferociously determined to uncover the identity of Gray's stalker. And she's just as determined to avoid any kind of romantic attachment between herself and the rugged football player with the mysterious past. But the closer they get to finding the stalker, the closer they grow to each other. As the danger rises, can Dru and Gray entrust their hearts--and their lives--to one another? (Goodreads)

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1NrA4cO

About the author:



Becky Wade is a native of California who attended Baylor University, met and married a Texan, and now lives in Dallas. A favorite among readers of Christian contemporary romance, Becky has won a Carol Award, an Inspirational Reader's Choice Award, and an INSPY Award.



My Thoughts
This is such a fun series. You don't have to read them in order but I recommend you start at the beginning, there is back story in this book that would make more sense if you had read the previous books. 
So that being said this book had all the fun things you can expect from Becky Wade and romance. I loved seeing where the Porter family was in this book and there was quite a bit about the entire family aside from Dru's main story line. I'll be honest and admit this wasn't my favorite book out of the series, I couldn't really get into the story line as much as before but I still found it to be enjoyable. If you haven't read this series, you really must!

Four Stars. 

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





Meet Dru Porter, former Marine, expert markswoman, and black belt—who also happens to be assigned as a bodyguard to star NFL tight end Gray Fowler. Don't miss the final Porter family novel by Becky Wade, Her One and Only. Gray starts receiving death threats from a stalker, and Dru is determined to find his stalker. Every secret that leads Dru closer to the stalker also draws her closer to Gray. As the danger escalates, they’ll survive only if they can learn to trust their lives—and their hearts—to one another.

Join Becky in celebrating the release of Her One and Only by entering to win her Porter prize pack and $100 cash card giveaway!

her one and only - 400 

One grand prize winner will receive:
  • A copy of Her One and Only
  • A $100 cash card
  • Follow Your Heart tote bag
  • 24 oz Tervis Wonder Woman Tumbler
  • The Blind Side DVD
  • Necklace with star charm
  • Porter Family navy jersey
her one and only - prize collage 

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry! The giveaway ends on May 31st. The winner will be announced June 1st on the Litfuse blog.

her-one-and-only-enter

Thursday, May 12, 2016

Dawn at Emberwilde Book Review



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About the Book

Isabel Creston never dared to dream that love could be hers. Now, at the edge of a forest filled with dark secrets, she faces a fateful choice between love and duty.

For as long as she can remember, beautiful and free-spirited Isabel has strained against the rules and rigidity of the Fellsworth School in the rolling English countryside. No longer a student, Isabel set her sights on a steady yet unexciting role as a teacher at the school, a safe yet stifling establishment that would provide her a steady environment to care for her younger sister Lizzie, who was left in her care after her father’s death.

The unexpected arrival of a striking stranger with news of unknown relatives turns Isabel’s small, predictable world upside down, sweeping her and her young charge into a labyrinth of intrigue and hidden motives.

At her new family’s invitation, Isabel and Lizzie relocate to Emberwilde, a sprawling estate adjacent to a vast, mysterious wood rife with mysterious rumors and ominous folklore—along with whispers of something far more sinister. And perhaps even more startling, two handsome men begin pursuing Isabel, forcing her to learn the delicate dance between attraction, the intricate rules of courtship, and the hopes of her heart.

At Emberwilde, Isabel will discover that the key to unlocking the mystery of her past may also open the door to her future and security. But first she must find it—in the depths of Emberwilde Forest. (Goodreads)




My Thoughts

To start out with the cover on this book is just beautiful! It definitely pulls the reader in to want to read the book. I really liked the setting and the lure of the Emberwilde Forest. I also liked Isabel but I felt like I didn't get to know her as well as I wanted to. The overall story line is good and in typical Sarah E. Ladd fashion there is a slight mystery or unknown thread that weaves through the pages. This I like and it is what makes this book enjoyable. The romance wasn't quite as dramatic as I was expecting, it was just sweet. 
So if you wish to be transported back to England in 1817, I would recommend this book. 

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










Tuesday, May 10, 2016

Long May She Wave Flag Postcard Collection





 My Thoughts

This is a great collection of postcards! There are two of each design and on the back of each one it explains the picture. Everything from a woman wearing a flag to a Mickey Mouse Patriotic Toy. The ones I like the most are the older pictures/art that show our history. 
This would make a great gift!

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












Monday, May 9, 2016

Fading Starlight Review

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 About the Book

A Tale of Unexpected Friendship and Old Hollywood Glamour

Lauren Summers is hiding. Her fashion house internship should have launched her career, but a red carpet accident has left her blackballed. The only job she finds is unpaid, but comes with free lodging--a run-down cottage in the shadow of a cliff-side mansion. Unsure of what comes next, she's surprised to be contacted by a reporter researching a reclusive former Hollywood actor who lives in the nearby mansion.

Kendall Joiner wants Lauren's help uncovering the old woman's secrets. In return, she'll prove the red carpet accident was a publicity stunt so Lauren can regain her former job. With all her dreams in front of her, Lauren's tempted by the offer, but as she and the old woman get to know each other, Lauren realizes nothing is quite as it seems. (Goodreads)


My Thoughts

 I have to say that Kathryn's novels are some of my favorite and have yet to disappoint. I LOVED this book and I couldn't put it down. The characters were wonderful and the setting felt like I was there. Lauren's faith is what I enjoyed reading the most. Not only was she a Christian but she actually acted like one. Real life issues are thrown her way and yes she gets sad but her faith and relationship with God are strong. I've not read too many books where the author makes it evident on what an actual relationship with Christ is all about. This book has it all. I loved the mysterious lady next door and the old Hollywood history. Also, this book is all about single women who are figuring out life-without a man! *Gasp* I so appreciated the fact that this wasn't a mushy love story. Yes, there is a great guy in the book but he is more in the background. Don't get me wrong I love a good love story but this book was made all the better without it. 
I could go on but I'll let you decide and read the book for yourself. Highly recommend and if you haven't read anything by Kathryn yet, you must! 

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











Saturday, May 7, 2016

Master Your Money Review



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 About the Book 

A step-by-step guide to financial freedom

Do you know if you have enough? Do you know how much is enough? If you can't answer these questions, Master Your Money is for you.

In this book, Ron Blue extracts principles from God's Word and applies them to your financial portfolio.

Learn how to:


Avoid the most common financial mistakes
Apply biblical principles for money management
Save, invest, and give wisely
Create a long-term financial plan that works
Plan for your taxes and estate needs
Get out of debt
Ron’s professional experience in financial planning will ease your anxieties over money and be an asset to you and your family for generations to come. Learn the tools and techniques you need to move forward toward true financial freedom.

This new edition includes important updates and new content, making it timely and relevant. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

I enjoy reading financial books, everyone has an opinion on the topic! I really like how this book is laid out and how money is explained. There is a pretty good chapter on debt and instead of scolding us on getting into debt, it explains how to get out of it. There is also a great chapter on interest and how to save money the smart way. The end of the book has a ton of details about what to do in preparing a will or your finances when you pass away. So needless to say this book covers a lot. It has been updated to current times, which is important because things change. 
I can't say I read anything I hadn't read before but I did like the multiple charts that showed examples of budgets and then left a blank one for the reader to fill out. So overall I would say this is a good book when it comes to handling your money in a Godly manner (tithe) and smartly. 

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








Wednesday, May 4, 2016

Little One, Got Made You Special Kid's Review


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 About the Book
Little One, God Made You Special, written by Amy Warren Hilliker and inspired by the New York Times #1bestseller The Purpose-Driven Life, is a cute and cuddly board book that let’s children know God made each one of us very special.



 My Thoughts

This is such an adorable little board book! There are three things that make this book good. First, it's a board book, which seems necessary with little hands! Second, this book confirms to a child that they matter and are a precious gift from God. This is awful important for kids and adults to understand. Third, the illustrations are wonderful!! It's an animal theme so each page has a mommy animal and a baby animal and it's just pretty to look at!

So if you are looking for a new board book for your children or for a gift, I highly recommend this one!!

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






Sunday, May 1, 2016

Lead Me Home Review





About the Book
 
Amid open fields and empty pews, small towns can crush big dreams.Abandoned by his no-good father and forced to grow up too soon, Noble Burden has set his dreams aside to run the family farm. Meanwhile, James Horton, the pastor of the local church, questions his own calling as he prepares to close the doors for good.As a severe storm rolls through, threatening their community and very livelihood, both men fear losing what they care about most . . . and reconsider where they truly belong.





 My Thoughts

I really liked the idea of this book but it didn't quite make it on my favorite list. I love the setting, it reminded me of home and small town/church life. The thing that really made this book worth it was how small town churches are struggling. Churches in general and losing people but in this book it portrays a pastor who is in the battle and what he goes through. A few of the other characters I didn't enjoy as much but otherwise Amy did a great job with her setting and topic, it just moved a bit slow for me.

Three stars.  

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