Sunday, May 18, 2014

A Colorado Spring










I was up here visiting family and friends. Most of the snow melted right away but it was a beautiful morning.









Saturday, May 17, 2014

Sarah's Choice Book Review




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About the Book

Only one thing stands in the way of Sarah's success . . . her unborn baby.

Sarah Collins is about to receive a promotion that will give her everything she's ever wanted: a huge pay increase, a new car, a fabulous apartment, and first-class travel.

Butthen she discovers she's pregnant. And while she "thinks "she loves her boyfriend, Matt, she isn't sure he's mature enough to be a responsible father. And the job she's pursuing is open only because the previous employee is out on maternity leave. She'd never be able to handle the travel as a single mom.

Torn between advice from her coworkers, the adamant insistence of her mother and sisterthat she keep the baby, her insecurity abouther relationship with Matt, and the void where her father should be, Sarah has no idea how to make this decision.

AChristmas card from a mysterious old woman is the catalyst for three visions of her future-and may just be the miracle she needs. But can she trust the visions? Are they the yearnings of a conflicted heart? Or are they true visions from the God she thought had turned his back on her?

For every woman who has made painful decisions, "Sarah's Choice "offers comfort, wisdom, and hope." (Goodreads)



My Review

Rebecca St. James and Nancy Rue are two people I really wouldn't mind meeting one day. These two women writing together has created two wonderful books, this being the second. I really loved this book for so many reasons. I had really high expectations and I would say they were met. The characters are likeable and easy to relate with. The humor is evident, even though the overall storyline is a deep thinker. I liked how God is not written as a horrible man who judges, but that it's the people who think they know better that judge. I enjoyed how realistic the story was with Sarah's thoughts and reaction to finding herself pregnant. I admit the parts with her mother were more challenging for me to read. 
This book has a great flow to it and takes a normal life experience and brings Christ right to the center of things. 
This book talks about abortion, pregnancy, and other personal and sometimes difficult/controversial topics. This is not a light read and I could not put it down!

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




 Read my review of Merciful Scar















Modern Pioneering Paperback Book Giveaway!
















I recently reviewed the book Modern Pioneering and really loved it! It's a great book for those who want to do more with a garden or be more self-sufficient.
I was accidentally sent a second copy (I sure don't want to give up my copy!) and decided to share this wonderful book with someone who will enjoy it.

Enter through the rafflecopter below. Giveaway ends May 23rd. I'll announce the winner May 24th.
U.S. entries only please. The winner will receive one paperback copy of this book as soon as I have received their info!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Thanks for stopping by!





 About the Book
A cookbook and backyard gardening and homesteading guide for women who want to grow food efficiently, cook seasonal recipes, or even try foraging, camping, and living off the land.

Self-sufficiency is the ultimate girl power

Georgia Pellegrini, outdoor adventurer and chef, helps you roll up your sleeves and tap into your pioneer spirit. Grow a small-space garden and preserve a little deliciousness for the cold months; assemble the makings of a self-sufficient pantry; learn to navigate without a compass for your next camping trip; or even forage for plants that give you energy.
Whether you’re a full-time homesteader, a weekend farmer’s market devoté, or anyone looking to do more by hand, this overflowing resource will help you hone new skills in the kitchen, garden, and great outdoors. It includes:
·         More than 100 recipes for garden-to-table dishes, preserves, and cured foods
·         Small-space gardening advice on building a raised bed, choosing what to grow, and saving seeds
·         DIY projects, such as Mason jar lanterns and homemade notecards
·         Superwoman skills like assembling a 48- hour survival toolkit in an Altoids tin

Packed with beautiful photographs and illustrations, Modern Pioneering proves that becoming more self-sufficient not only means being empowered, but also having a lot more fun. (Goodreads)

Friday, May 16, 2014

Silenced Giveaway Info

 Giveaway Info

Summary:
In SILENCED, Book 4 of author Dani Pettrey’s award-winning Alaskan Courage series, a relaxing day of rock climbing takes a dark turn when Kayden McKenna’s route brings her face-to-face with a dead climber. Was the climber’s death a terrible accident or something more sinister?
When the case is handed to Yancey’s overburdened sheriff, he turns to Jake Westin for help. With the truth of Jake’s past now revealed, Jake agrees to use his investigation skills for this one case–but nothing could prepare him for where the case will take him.
As Kayden and Jake work together to uncover the truth, will they also find a refuge in each other?  Or will the deadly plans of a killer destroy their chance at love?
To celebrate the novel, Dani and Bethany House Publishers are pleased to present the RUGGED ROMANCE SWEEPSTAKES, and your chance to win one of three marvelous prizes, all closely connected to the story.
Timeframe & Notifications:
This giveaway starts May 1, 2014 and ends May 21, 2014 @ 11:59 pm (PST).
Entry is open to US residents only, age 18 and over. Winners will be selected Friday, May 23, 2014, and announced at DaniPettrey.com.

About the Prizes

Rugged Romance Sweepstakes Grand PrizeGRAND PRIZE:
ALASKAN AIR ADVENTURE
In SILENCED, Kayden’s adventurous nature and skills as a pilot come in handy as she and Jake race to uncover the truth. If you’ve always dreamed of hopping on a plane to chase your own adventures, but don’t have a well-trained pilot and a Cessna at your disposal, we’ve got the perfect prize for you.
Our Grand Prize winner will receive: a $250 gift certificate to Alaskan Airlines, good toward travel to multiple destinations across the Continental US, Alaska, and Hawaii

Rugged Romance Sweepstakes Second PrizeSECOND PRIZE:
DENALI DEVOTION WALL ART
As Jake and Kayden crisscross the Alaskan wilderness looking for answers, they also see some of the most glorious scenery on earth:  soaring mountains, crystal clear lakes, and incomparable wildlife.  Could there be any better setting for a glowing romance? Now you can share in the romantic scenery, even if you don’t live in Alaska.
Our Second Prize winner will receive: The Kiss at Wonder Lake 31″ x 23″ Framed Art Print

Rugged Romance Sweepstakes Third PrizeTHIRD PRIZE:
RUGGED ROMANCE PICNIC PACK
Kayden has always been practical, no-nonsense, and slow to trust. She’s definitely not a romantic-at-heart who longs for a handsome man to whisk her away for a picnic in the mountains.  Right? ; )
If you, like Kayden, have secretly dreamed of a romantic mountain-top picnic, this is the prize for you.
Our Third Prize winner will receive: The ultimate picnic pack for a romantic afternoon. This insulated backpack includes silverware, plates, napkins, plastic long-stemmed glasses and a wide selection of gourmet picnic snacks
How to Enter:
Go to http://www.danipettrey.com/rugged-romance-sweepstakes/ and complete the entry box, anytime between May 1 and May 21.



Thursday, May 15, 2014

Living in the Pink Book Review

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About the Book

Living in the Pink is a series of humorous and insightful short stories with Christian underpinnings. Through the eyes of the wise "Sister Pinky" and Believers Ministries International Church, these stories highlight issues that women grapple with but often remain unspoken in religious circles. The characters are everyday wives, mothers, and singles. They develop and gain a spiritual perspective in dealing with romantic relationships, wayward children, jealousy, church traditions, Christian hypocrisy, and self-righteous judgment, among other themes. Discussion questions help readers connect with the storylines and urge them to look within-and up-to reach their highest potential in life. (Goodreads)



My Review

I thought this book would be more about the author's personal insight and short funny stories. It's actually a book full of short fictional stories. There are questions at the end of each chapter about how the story could relate to your personal life and verse references.
I really didn't get much from this book and the characters didn't seem real enough to me. Some moments were amusing but for the most part it was hard for me to get through. I did enjoy how the author really incorporated a relationship with God and how having a faith in Christ is so special.  I wish I could say otherwise but this is not a book I would recommend.







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










If the Shoe Fits Book Review


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About the Book

Julianne used to believe in fairy tales; she's been watching for Prince Charming to come charging in on his white steed ever since the day her mother read her Cinderella for the first time. But she's never come close to finding the perfect man-instead she's always tripping over her childhood best friend, Will. And who finds their Prince Charming on a 10-speed bicycle on the other side of the cul de sac? Well... Julianne does. Only she doesn't have a clue.

She and Will are attorneys now, and they've joined up in private practice in a beautiful Cincinnati office building that overlooks the Ohio River. And then one day Julianne is on her way to court, and runs right smack dab into Prince Charming. But when she looks again, all she finds is a metaphoric sign she is certain came straight from Heaven: The Prince's toolbox has fallen off the back of his truck, and a work boot along with it. What better way for God to grab the attention of a Cinderella-in-training than to show her a glass slipper...errrr, work boot?...waiting to be reunited with its owner?

So she sets out to track down the mysterious Prince Charming. He's the most gorgeous guy she's ever seen...and a caring animal rescuer, too. Surely he must be the soul mate God has prepared her for.

But, Julianne's prince is starting to look less and less charming all the time. No matter how she tries to romanticize him, he just keeps tumbling down off that dumb pedestal. And with the Bar Association dinner coming up that will honor her for her outstanding charity work over the year, Julianne wants so much for her friends and colleagues to see her with someone besides her best friend Will. To make matters worse, Prince Charming has no designs on wearing a penguin suit and attending a stuffy old dinner. With her pride pressing in on her like sticks from a cactus, Julianne sinks to the bottom of the proverbial barrel and actually offers to pay Paul to be her date.

Julianne is on a collision course with God's perfect plan for her life...if only she could open her eyes and see it before it's too late. (Goodreads)



My Review

I enjoy Sandra's writing and I actually read the second book in this series before I read this one. Honestly, the characters in this book did not click with me and the overall story line, while somewhat humorous was not my favorite. Sandra Bricker is hilarious and usually her stories make me laugh but this one wasn't as funny to me. Perhaps because this story has been re done so many times, modern day Cinderella. But I really did like the twist of the man leaving a boot and toolbox behind and not a glass slipper! Cute story but I would recommend her other books more so than this one.

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

Please stop by Sandra's website to learn more about her other books!







Silenced Book Review and Rugged Romance Giveaway Info

 Silenced by Author Dani Pettrey



Book Summary:
A relaxing day of rock climbing takes a disturbing turn when Kayden McKenna’s route leads her to a face-to-face encounter with a dead climber. Is it a terrible accident or something sinister? When the case is handed to the overburdened sheriff, he turns to Jake Westin. With Jake’s past now revealed, he’s ready to use his talent for investigation again-–but he could never prepare for where the case will take him.
Kayden and Jake soon realize that the death was no accident. And worse, it seems the killer is on to them. When strange things begin happening in Yancey, Jake is terrified that once again his world may put someone he loves in danger.
But the truth is far worse than either of them imagine.


My Review

What a great story! Dani Pettrey has done a great job in continuing the McKenna family adventures! Kayden's character is a lot different than the other family members which was refreshing. I loved the romance, while it's not over the top, the suspense is the main focus. I will admit the first "mystery" was easily solved but the rest of the books' surprises were more difficult to wrap my mind around. 
The setting I really enjoyed and learning more about rock climbing was very interesting. I also loved how Pettrey added more information about the other siblings and what was going on in their lives. 

This is a great book and a must read! You could read this book separately from the others in the series but it's always best to start at the beginning of a series. 



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



Book Info & Sample Chapter:
Can be found at http://www.danipettrey.com/books/


Book Links:

About the Author

Dani Pettrey is a wife, home-schooling mom, and the acclaimed author of the romantic suspense series Alaskan Courage, which includes her bestselling novels Submerged, Shattered, Stranded, and her latest release, Silenced. She feels blessed to write inspirational romantic suspense because it incorporates so many things she loves–the thrill of adventure, nail biting suspense, the deepening of her characters’ faith, and plenty of romance. She and her husband reside in Maryland, where they enjoy time with their daughters, son-in-law, and super adorable grandson.


Author Links:

 




 Giveaway Info


Summary:
In SILENCED, Book 4 of author Dani Pettrey’s award-winning Alaskan Courage series, a relaxing day of rock climbing takes a dark turn when Kayden McKenna’s route brings her face-to-face with a dead climber. Was the climber’s death a terrible accident or something more sinister?
When the case is handed to Yancey’s overburdened sheriff, he turns to Jake Westin for help. With the truth of Jake’s past now revealed, Jake agrees to use his investigation skills for this one case–but nothing could prepare him for where the case will take him.
As Kayden and Jake work together to uncover the truth, will they also find a refuge in each other?  Or will the deadly plans of a killer destroy their chance at love?
To celebrate the novel, Dani and Bethany House Publishers are pleased to present the RUGGED ROMANCE SWEEPSTAKES, and your chance to win one of three marvelous prizes, all closely connected to the story.
Timeframe & Notifications:
This giveaway starts May 1, 2014 and ends May 21, 2014 @ 11:59 pm (PST).
Entry is open to US residents only, age 18 and over. Winners will be selected Friday, May 23, 2014, and announced at DaniPettrey.com.

About the Prizes

Rugged Romance Sweepstakes Grand PrizeGRAND PRIZE:
ALASKAN AIR ADVENTURE
In SILENCED, Kayden’s adventurous nature and skills as a pilot come in handy as she and Jake race to uncover the truth. If you’ve always dreamed of hopping on a plane to chase your own adventures, but don’t have a well-trained pilot and a Cessna at your disposal, we’ve got the perfect prize for you.
Our Grand Prize winner will receive: a $250 gift certificate to Alaskan Airlines, good toward travel to multiple destinations across the Continental US, Alaska, and Hawaii

Rugged Romance Sweepstakes Second PrizeSECOND PRIZE:
DENALI DEVOTION WALL ART
As Jake and Kayden crisscross the Alaskan wilderness looking for answers, they also see some of the most glorious scenery on earth:  soaring mountains, crystal clear lakes, and incomparable wildlife.  Could there be any better setting for a glowing romance? Now you can share in the romantic scenery, even if you don’t live in Alaska.
Our Second Prize winner will receive: The Kiss at Wonder Lake 31″ x 23″ Framed Art Print

Rugged Romance Sweepstakes Third PrizeTHIRD PRIZE:
RUGGED ROMANCE PICNIC PACK
Kayden has always been practical, no-nonsense, and slow to trust. She’s definitely not a romantic-at-heart who longs for a handsome man to whisk her away for a picnic in the mountains.  Right? ; )
If you, like Kayden, have secretly dreamed of a romantic mountain-top picnic, this is the prize for you.
Our Third Prize winner will receive: The ultimate picnic pack for a romantic afternoon. This insulated backpack includes silverware, plates, napkins, plastic long-stemmed glasses and a wide selection of gourmet picnic snacks

How to Enter:
Go to http://www.danipettrey.com/rugged-romance-sweepstakes/ and complete the entry box, anytime between May 1 and May 21.






Wednesday, May 14, 2014

Rise and Shine Book Review

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ABOUT THE BOOK


Shannon Malone thought she'd found her happy ending when she married Edmund Ridgeway, but a diving accident on their honeymoon left her in a coma. Waking up to the news that she's thirty years old would have been daunting enough . . . but she also learns that Edmund has lost his interim battle with cancer and the world has marched on without her. Her gorgeous doctor, Daniel Petros, seems to know everything about her and becomes Shannon's tour guide into a whole new world of madness where reality television has taken over the planet and everyone's life appears to revolve around a tiny screen on their cell phones! As Shannon struggles to navigate through the changes-both in the world and in her-she also must discern real memories from imagined ones. Did she really ever wear capris pants and entertain in her living room, or was that Laura Petrie from her favorite classic TV show? And where is her beloved dog, Freeway? Oh, wait! That was Jonathan and Jennifer Hart's dog, not hers. Shannon's three elderly aunts flit through her life in true Sleeping Beauty style with her well-being always a priority. And Edmund's sister Millicent descends like the Evil Queen she is, trying to extract Shannon from any claim on the Ridgeway family fortune. When a tornado moves through town and Shannon is knocked unconscious, will Daniel's kiss awaken her once and for all?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Rise and Shine, go HERE.




My Review


 What a fun book! Sandra Bricker is such a creative fun writer and all of her books have been a surprise. I have not read the first book in this series but they are each set about a different fairy tale so they read separately. 
This book is a modern day Sleeping Beauty as Shannon wakes up from a coma she has been in for ten years. Now when I read about this happening I really started to think about what that would actually be like! Can you imagine waking up ten years later and knowing nothing about the past ten years?!
Of course the story is predictable and I wish the "villain" was in more of the story but I think Sandra did a great job incorporating the story line into modern day terms. 
I really loved the characters and the overall storyline.
 I wish the ending was stronger but this was still a fun read. I rate five stars!



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






















This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Rise and Shine
River North; New Edition edition (May 1, 2014)
by
Sandra D. Bricker


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

For more than a decade, Sandra D. Bricker lived in Los Angeles. While honing her chosen craft of screenwriting in every spare moment, she worked as a personal assistant and publicist to some of daytime television's hottest stars. When her mother became ill in Florida, she walked away from that segment of her life and moved across the country to take on a new role: Caregiver.

The author says that it was her 8th novel that opened the door to finding her way as a writer. "I'm a Christian woman, first and foremost," she says. "So it was a bit of a dream-come-true when Summerside Press chose me as one of two authors to launch the Love Finds You line."

Sandie's real-life role as cancer survivor has parlayed into her steadfast commitment to raising awareness and funds for ovarian cancer research. Spearheading a series of devotionals for Summerside Press (such as the popular His Grace is Sufficient...Decaf is Not), the author has stipulated that a portion of each contributor's proceeds will go to the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund.

"Being allowed to combine my faith and my humor with raising funds for my pet projects ... and still pursue my writing dream," says Bricker, "well, that's the best of all worlds, as far as I'm concerned!"

And one of the author's pet projects is animal rescue, evidenced by the special bond she has created with one particular formerly-abandoned puppy -- a red-haired collie with "killer brown eyes and the heart of the class clown."


Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Miracles Now Book Review


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About the Book



Miracles Now by New York Times best-selling author Gabrielle Bernstein will help readers eliminate stress and find peace—even if they only have a minute to spare. Bernstein knows that most of us don’t have time for an hour of yoga or 30 minutes of meditation, so she has hand-picked 108 techniques to combat our most common problems—from addiction and anxiety to burnout and resentment. Inspired by some of the greatest spiritual teachings, Bernstein offers up spirit-based principles, meditations, and practical, do-them-in-the-moment tools to help readers bust through blocks to live with more ease. She breaks down each technique Spirit Junkie style—with meditations, assessment questions, and step-by-step guidance—while incorporating lessons from A Course in Miracles and Kundalini yoga.
As readers benefit from the techniques they’ll be able to share them. Each practice has been boiled down to a 140-character description—or Miracle Message—which can be tweeted, pinned on Pinterest, posted on Facebook, or shared on Instagram. Each Miracle Message will end with the hashtag #MiraclesNow. Ebook readers can share right from their device.
Readers familiar with Bernstein’s fun and innovative take on spirituality will scoop up her latest work. And those who are discovering her will appreciate her easy-access approach to spirituality and transformation. (Goodreads)



My Review

This is not a book I would typically pick up and read. But I really like reading about new ideas and thoughts so I thought this book would be insightful. I enjoyed how the book was set up. Each topic was in it's own chapter with a quote at the end. It's organized and simple. I do enjoy yoga myself though I never do the "spiritual" side of things because I don't agree with it. I do think yoga is a good exercise and a good way to calm your mind. The author had some great things to say, I agreed with many of the ideas and topics on coping with stress and de-cluttering your life- it does make a difference mentally. I think the main thing that I got out of this book is that your mind has a big effect on your physical body, which I completely agree with. I agree with the idea that you can really change things when you have to right mental attitude.
I did not agree with "believing in the universe" or "let the universe do her thing". I see the "universe" as God because that's what I believe.

In any case I really did enjoy this book and I think it had a lot of great advice.

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










Friday, May 9, 2014

Fatal Exchange Book Review


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About the Book
 Emily Hunt might come from a family of cops, but she never goes looking for an adrenaline rush. She lives the quiet–well, relatively quiet–life of a teacher and thrives on making a difference in the lives of her students. But she’ll have to draw on a well of strength and savvy she didn’t know she had as student Rafael Cerda takes her class hostage for ransom money to save his brother’s life.
Undercover cop Mason Taylor has been working with Rafael to find his brother and bring the cartel thugs who hold him to justice. Can he talk Rafael down from his impulsive actions? And is there something more sinister at work here than he realizes?

Fatal Exchange draws readers into a complex matrix of intertwining lives and unraveling secrets, where every answer creates more questions. Romantic suspense fans will hardly want to come up for air.(Goodreads)


My Review

I really enjoy this author and this series is really very good. I read the first book, it's still my favorite out of the two, but this book I enjoyed. Full of suspense, I thought I knew what was going to happen but then it took a turn. The thing I also like about this series is the books are not super long. They are suspenseful but the author does not drag everything out. The characters are likeable and the overall flow of the book is well written. I don't think you really need to read the first book to understand this one but they both are good!! If you enjoy suspense with a dab of romance you will enjoy this book. 


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













Thursday, May 8, 2014

Modern Pioneering Book Review



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 About the Book



A cookbook and backyard gardening and homesteading guide for women who want to grow food efficiently, cook seasonal recipes, or even try foraging, camping, and living off the land.

Self-sufficiency is the ultimate girl power

Georgia Pellegrini, outdoor adventurer and chef, helps you roll up your sleeves and tap into your pioneer spirit. Grow a small-space garden and preserve a little deliciousness for the cold months; assemble the makings of a self-sufficient pantry; learn to navigate without a compass for your next camping trip; or even forage for plants that give you energy.
Whether you’re a full-time homesteader, a weekend farmer’s market devoté, or anyone looking to do more by hand, this overflowing resource will help you hone new skills in the kitchen, garden, and great outdoors. It includes:
·         More than 100 recipes for garden-to-table dishes, preserves, and cured foods
·         Small-space gardening advice on building a raised bed, choosing what to grow, and saving seeds
·         DIY projects, such as Mason jar lanterns and homemade notecards
·         Superwoman skills like assembling a 48- hour survival toolkit in an Altoids tin

Packed with beautiful photographs and illustrations, Modern Pioneering proves that becoming more self-sufficient not only means being empowered, but also having a lot more fun. (Goodreads)


 My Review

What a great book! The author writes," Because of Great-Aunt Gray I have always liked to get dirt under my fingernails. Because of Grandma Pellegrini, those fingernails have always been well manicured."
Everything in this book is helpful and really interesting to read. Cooking, gardening, home, and a handful of other topics are discussed along with tons of pictures! I am a very visual person and many of the pages show drawings on how to do things or specifics. The photography in the book is wonderful. This is Pinterest in a book, only better because there are more details. 
If you are interesting in DIY or self-sufficiency (which I am!) this book really is a must read. This book is worth it's price tag!! 




  "I received this book for free from Blogging for Books for this review."