Many Sparrows (Review)

This review is for the book "Many Sparrows" by Lori Benton. In this book, Colonists are moving westward which means they are coming onto territories which belong to Native Americans. The Inglesby family is on this journey when Clare's husband Philip is sent on a mission for help. Philip doesn't return and suddenly Clare's son has disappeared without a trace. To make things worse, Clare is about to go into labor any minute. She has to pull herself together in order to recover her son from the Shawnee Indians. Luckily she has someone come to her aid to help her through this situation.

This book intertwines suspense, romance, and faith in a way that comes together with ease. Benton is such a great author and if you like historical novels like this you will definitely enjoy this one.

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.

God's Crime Scene for Kids (Review)

This review is for the book "God's Crime Scene for Kids" by J. Warner Wallace and Susie Wallace. I absolutely loved this book! This is such a cool idea! In this book, Jason has uncovered a mysterious box in his grandmother's attic. He wants to figure out the mystery behind it, so he goes to his friends and Detective Jeffries from the Junior Detective's Academy to solve the mystery. As Jeffries helps the kids with the box mystery, he also helps them discover how to learn that the universe points to the existence of God. In this book, he never says it is just because the Bible says so, or any trite thing like that. He points the kids to science and lets them answer their questions on their own.

This book is meant for young kids - I'd say 3rd grade and up can really enjoy it - and teaches them early apologetics. There are great illustrations, the conversation is really easy to read and follow, and the chapters are short. Perfect for me to give to my kids to read now that I've finished it! This will make for a very cool book for me to discuss with my kids as they are reading it.

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.

World View (Review)

This review is for the book "World View" by Marvin Olasky. In this book, Olasky wants readers to discover how to speak the truth but also show mercy in our everyday lives. This book is actually comprised of several columns from World Magazine. These are personal encounters and interactions that Olasky has had with people across the globe and events that he wants to bring to light. The book is very deep and thought-provoking and Olasky will definitely lure you in with his strong words and thoughts. I highly recommend others read this book as it will make you self-reflect and think on things that we don't often think about.

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.

KJV Know the Word Study Bible (Review)

This review is for the KJV Know the Word Study Bible. I was so excited to get this Bible! I love a new Bible and I especially love a good study Bible. This Bible gives you three options for studying: by the book, by the verse, or by the topic. It's great for getting into a daily routine of Bible reading. The pages are a beautiful design and easy to read. There are tons of notes throughout the Bible for you to read as you study. There is a concordance along with several full-color maps in the back. I particularly like how this Bible points out the origins of the words that are used in the scripture.

I love this version. I like to read a different version of the Bible every time I read through it, and this is one of the best ones I've read. I  highly recommend it. It is not only a great version, but very sturdy and well-made.

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.

Rule of Law (Review)

This review is for the book "Rule of Law" by Randy Singer. This book was a really great political thriller. In this novel, a specific SEAL team has been sent on a rare mission by the president. They head to Yemen to do the mission, but it fails. When it does, the SEAL team learns that maybe the president had that planned all along. Paige Chambers, a lawyer who personally wants to know if the president knew that the mission would fail, goes on a search for answers. Going after the president is a huge risk, so she definitely needs to know what she's doing.

This book has it all - politics, twists and turns, romance, and suspense. It is a bit of a slow start trying to learn all the characters and learn how they play together in the book, but then it turns into a page-turner!

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.

No One Ever Asked (Review)

This review is for the book "No One Ever Asked" by Katie Ganshert. I have only read one of the other books she has written, but I loved that book and really wanted to read something else by her. This book was phenomenal. It is absolutely emotional and heart-wrenching. She really digs into the tragedy here, which is the fact that in 2017 we are still seeing people who are being treated unfairly simply based on their skin color. As a white woman, I rarely see this affect my daily life, but I do know people who say that they never have one day where they forget their skin color because of how they are treated.

This novel is just extremely emotional. There are so many things at play in this book. Not just the racial aspect, but the relationships and the misunderstandings and the faith struggles. It is so good. It's one of those books that you won't want to put down.

Thank you to Waterbrook Multonah for a copy of the book.

Imperfect Justice (Review)

This review is for the book "Imperfect Justice" by Cara Putman. Now this is a definite page-turner. I loved this book from the very beginning because it had me on the edge of my seat. In this book, Emilie is supposed to be helping Kaylene escape from her abusive husband when Kaylene suddenly doesn't show up for an appointment. The next thing Emilie knows, Kaylene is dead as well as one of her daughters, and the other daughter is fighting for her life in the hospital. The husband is blaming it all on Kaylene.

Emilie struggles to clear Kaylene's name without having any evidence to her point. She pulls in Kaylene's brother Reid for help, but unfortunately he hasn't been in touch with Kaylene in ages. They still work together to try to figure out how to prove Kaylene's innocence. Throughout it all, Emilie is also dealing with someone stalking her and feeling a lot of pressure since she's so sure Kaylene was innocent.

This book is so great. I love the characters and the suspense throughout the book. I couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen next!

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.

Christy (Review)

This review is for the book "Christy" by Catherine Marshall. I actually first learned about this story when I watched the TV series back when I was a little girl. I fell in love with that television show. So I was very excited to get this 50th anniversary edition of the book to read! I will say that this book is so daunting when you first pick it up because it is so thick! But the pages turn quickly because the story is so captivating!

Christy is a 19-year old teacher who is moving from her home in Asheville, North Carolina, to cutter Cap which is a very isolated part of the Smoky Mountains. She is going to have to learn to deal with a lot of changes - including suspicion from the people who live there, learning about their traditions and superstitions, and the ravage of poverty in these mountains.

You'll fall in love with these people, just as Christy does, and you'll love to watch her journey. A book you can read over and over again!

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.

Deadly Proof (Review)

This review is for the book "Deadly Proof" by Rachel Dylan. In this book, we meet Kate Sullivan, who is a lawyer involved in a lawsuit against Mason Pharmaceutical. This is a huge case that could make her career, but it is also a case that quickly turns dangerous for Kate as well as her clients. Fortunately there is a private investigator who comes in, Landon, and he is there to handle security.

This book is chock full of suspense and danger. I like how the romance and the spiritual aspect are woven into the story but not overly cheesy. I did think some of the legal parts made my brain spin because I don't know a lot about that kind of stuff, but I think it was necessary for this book to make sense. I really like the characters and the storyline. It looks like this is the first of a series so I will look forward to reading more in the series.

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.

Ordinary Graces (Review)

This review is for the book "Ordinary Graces" by Lucinda Secrest McDowell. I always love reading anything by McDowell because I know that it is going to be something great.

This book contains 120 different devotions that cross four different categories - grace, strength, gratitude, and life. Within each one of those categories are 30 daily devotionals. They are short, with a scripture to start with, a personal snippet or an example from the Bible, and a prayer.

I love these types of books because they are easy to fit into my busy lifestyle. I can read one a day or several a day. I definitely enjoyed this and would highly recommend it to anyone needing a little extra boost in their devotions.

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.

Pass It On (Review)

This review is for the book "Pass It On" by Champ Thornton. This type of book is something I have seen before, but I absolutely love the design and the idea of this. It is a journal for you to use as you study the Proverbs. As you read the scripture, this book will tell you a summary, and then ask several questions which you should actually answer by writing in the book. You will connect your life with the gospel through this journal, and then be able to pass it on for others to learn from and see that connection.

What a brilliant idea! And what a beautiful journal this is. I cannot wait to fill out all of the pages and pass this on to my children to read.

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.

She's Got the Wrong Guy (Review)

This review is for the book "She's Got the Wrong Guy" by Deepak Reju. In this book, Reju attempts to talk to Christian women about why we tend to settle for less than what (or who) God wants for us. First of all, he discusses why we sometimes settle, and then he goes into how to live by faith in your relationships. This is a very eye-opening section, because he touches on the very true fact that we are NOT promised a man will chase us, and we are NOT promised that we will settle down with the love of our life forever. These dreams sometimes come from romance novels and movies, but that is not necessarily God's plan for us. The author goes through a bunch of different guys you may come in contact with while you're dating, and then how to pursue a real Christian man.

I love this book and I think that it could not come at a better time. Our society is so impatient, and we are inundated with dating sites, phone apps, commercials, romance movies and books, that we sometimes feel like it is never going to happen to us. What an important thing to remember - that God's plan is perfect for us.

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.

Murder in Disguise (Review)

This review is for "Murder in Disguise" by Donn Taylor. This is a Preston Barclay mystery, which I had never read before, and I definitely have to say I want to read more about Preston Barclay! I loved this character! Barclay is a history professor but he somehow finds himself a detective in murder mysteries as well. In this book, it's a friend who has committed suicide that has Barclay curious. This friend exhibited no signs of suicidal tendencies, and his widow begs Barclay to investigate.

I loved all of the characters, and the twists and turns of this book. It definitely held my interest. I would love to read another book in this series.

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.

Most Important Women (Review)

This review is for the book "The Most Important Women of the Bible" by Aaron and Elaina Sharp. I loved this book! Every chapter that I finished, I couldn't wait to move on to the next one! Each chapter focuses on a woman in the Bible (or a group, like "Mary and Martha"). There is a nice quote about each woman, and then the scripture reference where we can find her. The authors give us her biography - as much as they can - and then her role in redemption, which really digs into the scripture. One really cool thing about this book that I have never seen before was something at the end of each chapter. The authors would say "By the Numbers" and then have some very interesting statistics. For example, when talking about the widow who gave two mites, at the end of the chapter, it says "Mites placed by the widow in the temple collection: 2. Minutes of labor it took to make two mites: 5." which was very interesting! Then with each chapter they also had "things we wondered" which were really intriguing questions!

I highly recommend this book. I think everyone who reads it will really enjoy it!

Thank you to Bethany House for a copy of the book.

Hope Toler Dougherty's 'Rescued Hearts' Blog Tour and Kindle Giveaway

This review is for the book "Rescued Hearts" by Hope Toler Dougherty. I love her books, so I was excited to get my hands on this one! In this novel, we meet clothing designer Mary Wade. Unfortunately, as we meet her, she is being kidnapped. Fortunately for her, one of the kidnappers is actually an undercover agent, so he is able to get her out of the situation. UNFORTUNATELY, this puts them both in danger. Mary Wade and Brett are thrown together in this situation and that makes for high emotions, but they can't totally attribute their attraction to one another just based on the high emotions. And it turns out that Mary Wade is stronger than she gives herself credit for.

I loved this book and the characters. You will fall in love with Brett's spunky grandmother! Great story and I look forward to reading more from Dougherty!

-------------------------------------------------

Her personal safety isn't the only thing in jeopardy-so is her heart. In Hope Toler Dougherty's new novel, Rescued Hearts, children's clothing designer Mary Wade Kimball's soft spot for animals leads to a hostage situation when she spots a briar-entangled kitten in front of an abandoned house. Discovering the kidnapped woman ratchets the complications for undercover agent Brett Davis. Brett forsakes his three-month mission and helps her escape, the bent-on-revenge brutes following behind . . . and then Mary Wade's safety is threatened once more.




Cozy up this fall with Hope's new book and enter to win a Kindle Fire!







https://promosimple.com/ps/c46b" rel="noopener" target="_blank">http://litfusegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/rescued-hearts-400.png

" height="300" width="400" />


One grand prize winner will receive:




• A copy of Rescued Hearts


• A Kindle Fire 7

Enter today by clicking the icon below, but hurry! The giveaway ends on November 13. The winner will be announced November 14 on the http://litfusegroup.com/category/blog" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Litfuse blog.







https://promosimple.com/ps/c46b" rel="noopener" target="_blank">http://litfusegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/rescued-hearts-enterbanner.png

" height="100" width="400" />

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.

Counseling Under the Cross (Review)

This review is for the book "Counseling Under the Cross" by Bob Kellemen. I was really intrigued about this book because I have learned a lot about Martin Luther recently, and the subtitle of this book is "How Martin Luther Applied the Gospel to Daily Life". This book was incredibly interesting and an in-depth study on Luther's theology, but somehow written in a way that keeps the reader's interest.

In this book, Kellemen spends a chapter on a specific theology of Luther's, and then follows up with a chapter on his methodology. For example, he explains Luther's theology of suffering in one chapter, and then in the next he shows how he applied that theology to everyday life. The book also begins with a background of Luther so the reader becomes more familiar with his spiritual journey.

I loved this book and found it very fascinating. I definitely recommend it!

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.

When God Made You (Review)

This review is for the book "When God Made You" by Matthew Paul Turner. My kids absolutely love these types of books and stories, so I had to get this one for them. This book is really cute. The illustrations are beautiful, creative, and colorful, and my kids loved them. The book talks about how special each one of us is, which is a really important thing for kids to grasp. The book rhymes, which of course usually is more entertaining for kids and more fun for us adults to read out loud! And what a great premise - that God made us exactly the way He wanted us. I love it. Perfect for the kids in your life!

Thank you to Waterbrook Multonah for a copy of the book.

Beginner's Gospel Story Bible (Review)

This review is for the book "The Beginner's Gospel Story Bible" by Jared Kennedy. I had barely even taken this book out of the box it was mailed in when my 8-year old daughter grabbed it, curled up on the couch, and began reading it. By the next night, she had finished the whole thing.

Now, I will say that this Bible is probably meant for a younger child, I can see why she devoured it. The pictures and illustrations are colorful and fun. The text is in a font that is very easy to read, and there isn't "too much" on a page as far as wordiness goes. There are questions strewn in for the kids to think about when reading it alone or with parents, such as "What is your favorite thing God has made?" when reading about creation, or "Have you ever been afraid to speak up for someone else?" when reading about Queen Esther.

This is one of the best Bibles I have ever seen for young children. It focuses on the promises of God and how the promise of salvation is throughout the Bible, but it will most definitely keep their attention and be fun for adults to read as well! Well done, with this book.

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.

All Things Now Living (Review)

This review is for the book "All Things Now Living" by Rondi Bauer Olson. This is the first book in her series about the Seventh Daughter.

In this book we meet Amy, who is sixteen years old. Almost the very first thing that happens in the book is that she "accidentally" gets trapped in New Lithisle, which is a home in a dome where she's always been taught that the people who live there are mutants who deserve to die. She's terrified based on what she's heard about these people her whole life. Turns out that her father is a sympathizer for these people, and Amy is pretty special herself.

The book focuses on Amy's relationship with the New Lithisle people (particularly one named Daniel), and her journey to save them before the dome collapses.

This book was really interesting, and although there were some things that I felt were a little confusing to me, the story as a whole is a great adventure and is intriguing. I'll be very interested to read the rest of the series and find out what happens to Amy.

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.

The Gift (Review)

This review is for the book "The Gift" by Shelley Shepard Gray. She is one of my favorite Amish fiction authors, and this book was not disappointing at all. This is the second book in her Amish of Hart County series. Unfortunately, I have not read the first book yet, but fortunately, that did not matter when I was reading this book! It was very easy to keep up with all of the characters and the backstory.

In this book, Neil Vance and his family are upset over losing their family farm, and they're kind of taking it out on the Schwartz family who have moved onto the farm. But soon, the daughters of the Schwartz family seem to have some really awful luck - getting shot at, falling into an icy creek, etc. Neil and his brother start to think that maybe those accidents aren't just bad luck. They all begin working together to do some investigating, and throughout their time together, they start to form some relationships.

I really liked this book because it had a little bit of everything - romance, suspense and mystery, and I really liked the characters. I can't wait to read the next one!

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.

Total Christmas Makeover (Review)

This review is for the book "Total Christmas Makeover" by Melissa Spoelstra. This book contains 31 devotions to prepare you for the upcoming Christmas season. I really love books like this, and this book was no disappointment. Each devotion focuses on something different, such as serving, or forgiveness, or rest. Each chapter begins with scripture and then there is a short devotion, a prayer, and then questions for reflection and ideas for how to put the devotion into practice. For example, the chapter on serving suggests signing up to ring the bell for Salvation Army, or offering to help with children's classes at church during the holidays.

I loved this book because it was really easy to find time to read the devotional each day, and it gave me a lot of ideas for how to slow down and really appreciate this season as it approaches. I highly recommend this book!

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.

A Letter From Lancaster County (Review)

This review is for the book "A Letter from Lancaster County" by Kate Lloyd. In this book we meet two sisters named Rose and Angela. Even though they are grown, they still struggle with jealousy and sibling rivalry. When they receive a letter from Lancaster County, both sisters decide to travel to see their Aunt Sylvia, who is a Mennonite. Aunt Sylvia is just the ticket for these girls, plus getting away from their everyday lives and getting a new perspective on each other. As they all find out some secrets about their family, they actually do become closer.

This book was very well-written and I really liked the characters. I see that this is the first book in a new series so I will look forward to reading the rest of the series!

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.

Secrets (Review)

This review is for the book "Secrets" by Jonathan Daugherty. In this book, we meet Jonathan, a real man who is seriously struggling with the secret of sex addiction. He was able to hide this secret very well from his wife for a long time, but when the secret was exposed, it almost ended their marriage.

In this book, Daugherty is open about his addiction and how hard he worked to get through it and restore his marriage, and also his relationship with God. The book is not graphic or anything like that, just honest and very straightforward. I would be willing to be there are a lot of people who need to read this book and know they are not alone.

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of this book.

Small Book about a Big Problem (Review)

This review is for the book "A Small Book about a Big Problem" by Edward T. Welch. This book is about anger, patience, and peace. It is primarily about anger and how to tame your anger and have more self-control. Each chapter is a short, to-the-point snippet about anger. One chapter is about getting angry when we judge others. One is about how forgiving God is. One talks about how sometimes anger looks right to us. This book really made me think, because sometimes I get angry over the silliest things. This really made me take a look at myself and think how I can change, and there is a lot of great scripture throughout the book.

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.

A Forest, a Flood, and an Unlikely Star (Review)

This review is for the book "A Forest, a Flood, and an Unlikely Star" by J.A. Myhre. This is the third book I have read from her and I absolutely love all of them. In this book we meet 13-year old Kusiima. Kusiima and his sister and his grandmother live all alone and Kusiima takes every possible job in order to help feed his family. Unfortunately, at times, that means he has to get involved in things that are risky and not necessarily legal. When he goes on a journey in a forest, something goes wrong, and Kusiima is afraid for his life as well as being afraid of the evil things that are happening around him that he now knows about. His sister's life is at stake because of her poor health, so he is dealing with that as well. This adventure is one you won't soon forget!

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.

Daring to Hope (Review)

This review is for the book "Daring to Hope" by Katie Davis Majors. I love her story so I was really excited to read this book. Katie moved to Uganda, founded an organization and adopted several children all while she was barely an adult herself. In this book she shares many of the struggles she has been through. She has such a compassionate, servant's heart, but that means that she is in the position often to get her heart broken. For example, there is a family she takes in and the mother ends up dying. Katie's heart is broken for the loss of her friend and the fact that the children have to go somewhere else to live. Katie is honest about her struggles and fears and doubts and sadness, but she finds great comfort in her faith as well. I love her outlook and I really enjoyed reading about her story.

Thank you to Waterbrook Multonah for a copy of the book.

Too Far Down (Review)

This review is for the book "Too Far Down" by Mary Connealy. I have read a handful of her books and really enjoyed them all. I read the first book in this series, somehow missed the second book, and then read this - the third book. I am sure I would have liked the second book, but it wasn't necessary to read that before reading this one. This is part of her The Cimarron Legacy series. In this book, Cole Boden has returned to his family ranch because of his father's living will. He enjoys running the mines, but something is going on that is targeting his family and some of the miners. He has to solve the mystery of what is happening before his entire family gets attacked. Melanie Blake, a family friend, is also around and is determined to help the Bodens. Unfortunately for both Cole and Melanie, they find themselves falling for one another, even though they are an unlikely couple.

Great story with twists and turns and I really like the characters!

Thank you to Bethany House for a copy of the book.

Prayers for New Brides (Review)

This review is for the book "Prayers for New Brides" by Jennifer O. White. Although I am not a newlywed, I really enjoyed this book which made me think about the battle that we are in daily for our marriages. There are so many things to pray about in our marriages, such as knowing our enemy, trusting God to defend your marriage, seeing yourself and your spouse through God's eyes, and how to honor your spouse and your marriage, among many other things.

Every chapter is a short devotional and then she gives a lot of scripture you can read that goes along with the chapter, and a "call to action". This book is so good! Easy to read but there is a lot of wisdom in here that will go a long way in a marriage, whether an old or new marriage!

Thank you to Cross Focused Reviews for a copy of the book.

Descriptions and Prescriptions (Review)

This review is for the book "Descriptions and Prescriptions" by Michael R. Emlet. This book is a Biblical perspective on psychiatric diagnoses and medications. Emlet begins the book by talking about how most psychiatric problems get diagnosed, and how many times there are problems with those diagnoses. He talks about how our culture influences psychiatric issues, how many times the abnormal becomes the normal, and about redefining behavior. And he talks about what this means for us in ministry. He also delves into the different classes of psychoactive medications which was really interesting because I didn't know anything about these medications. The author talks about how effective these medications are, and how to be wise when taking them or referring someone to take them. He goes through the spiritual aspect of certain diagnoses as well. All in all a very interesting book by someone who obviously knows what they are talking about.

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of this book.

The Pretender (Review)

This review is for the book "The Pretender" by Ta'mara Hanscom. In this book, we meet Tillie Caselli and Noah Hansen. This book was set in the 1970's. Tillie is a 17-year old who goes away on her first overnight trip for an art show. She meets Noah Hansen there, who is the epitome of a "bad boy" and they seemingly fall in love at first sight. They make plans to meet (and even to marry), but before they can see each other again, Tillie is whisked away by her teacher during a snow storm. They have no way of getting in touch again, but they mourn for one another for a year. During that time, they really grow as individuals. Will they come back together eventually?

I really liked the premise of this story and the characters. What I didn't like is that the conversations between the characters felt stilted and unrealistic. I don't know anyone who actually talks like this, and it seemed a little cheesy. I was able to get over it and enjoy the book anyway. I'd be interested to read the other books in the series.

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.

A Woman Overwhelmed (Review)

This review is for the book "A Woman Overwhelmed" by Hayley DiMarco. I loved this book! I loved her style of writing. This book felt like we were sitting in my living room sharing a cup of coffee and just talking and commiserating, and encouraging one another. I felt like Hayley was reading my mind, especially on such topics as creating our own laws (telling myself what I need to do, not what I actually have to do), or not asking people for help, but rather, making a lot of noise in their general direction until they volunteer to help me. Hayley had me cracking up, nodding my head, and taking a hard look at myself! Great read, and I highly recommend it for all women!

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.

Living the Spirit Formed Life (Review)

This review is for the book "Living the Spirit-Formed Life" by Jack Hayford. In this book, the author talks about how we have such busy lives where we are so easily distracted, and how that means that we often overlook the work of tending to our spiritual lives. I think this was a great book and very well laid out. He goes over ten disciplines we can have in order to be firmer in our faith. These are things such as finding forgiveness, reading your Bible, and being submissive when appropriate. I really enjoyed the discussions that he had and felt that he used scripture correctly to go over these disciplines.

Thank you to Chosen Publishers for a copy of the book.

The Proving (Review)

This review is for the book "The Proving" by Beverly Lewis. I love Beverly Lewis and this book did not disappoint me at all. In this book, we meet Amanda Dienner. Mandy was raised Amish but she was never baptized into the church and she has been living as an Englisher for the past five years. She is shocked to learn one day that her mother has passed away and left an entire Amish bed and breakfast to Mandy. What's more, this comes with a stipulation that Mandy must keep the bed and breakfast profitable for 12 months, or she won't inherit it. Mandy takes a deep breath and goes back to the community she left. She has to face her family, her old friends, and come to the realization that these people really want the Amish experience - some of which she has forgotten! It's a struggle and a journey for Mandy throughout the 12 months. I loved this book and I enjoyed the characters and storyline a lot.

Thank you to Bethany House for a copy of the book.

Dark Deception (Review)

This review is for the book "Dark Deception" by Nancy Mehl. This is the second book in the Defenders of Justice series, but I easily read it without reading the first in the series. In this book, we see Kate O'Brien. She is the key witness in a murder trial, and so she is in witness protection in a small town called Shelter Cove. When the evidence gets thrown out of the trial, her would-be murderer is let out of prison, and he is on the hunt for Kate. Tony DeLuca is the deputy marshal who was her protector during the trial, and Kate only feels safe when he's around.

This book has so many twists and turns, your head will be spinning! I thought I knew who the bad guy was, then I thought I knew again, and then I quit trusting this guy over here, and then I thought it might be this guy over here... wow! What a story. I really enjoyed the characters of this book and all the twists and turns. I read this book in two nights because I couldn't put it down. Really great read that will keep you interested the whole way.

Thank you to Bethany House for a copy of the book.

The Child Safeguarding Policy Guide (Review)

This review is for the book "The Child Safeguarding Policy Guide" by Basyle Tchividjian and Shira M. Berkovits. This book was extremely eye-opening and helpful. Churches are supposed to be a safe place for children, but the reality is that many children have abusive experiences within the church. This guide helps faith communities put policies and procedures into place to protect children, and to address possible abuse. The book defines abuse, talks about indicators and people who abuse, and then goes into the protective practices churches should put into place. Then it goes over how to respond to child abuse accusations and policy violations, and then most importantly, how to support survivors. This book is a wealth of knowledge, with policies, procedures, and forms filling up the pages. I think that this is a really important book for church officials to read and put into place.

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.

Gathering the Threads (Review)

This review is for the book "Gathering the Threads" by Cindy Woodsmall, who is one of my favorite fiction authors. This book is actually the third book in her Amish of Summer Grove series. Although I had not read either of the other books in the series, it did not take me long to catch on to the story. It definitely helped that Woodsmall put in a section in the beginning to go over the background story. Even with the background story, I was a little confused at who everyone was, but by about chapter three, I understood what was going on.

This is an interesting Amish story because it is so unlike other ones I have read. Ariana has found that she is actually "Englisch" although she grew up Amish, and spending time with her "Englisch" family has opened her eyes to some things about the Amish community that she isn't entirely sure about. She questions their trust in the bishop and some of the rules. This is hard for her family to understand, especially as she grows closer to Quill, her friend who actually left the Amish and helps other Amish leave the community. This is a great journey of faith for Ariana, though. I really enjoyed watching Ariana discover herself throughout this book.

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.

The Two of Us (Review)

This review is for the book "The Two of Us" by Victoria Bylin. In this book, we meet Mia Robinson. She has had her heart broken one too many times, so she's sworn off men and she's focusing now on being a medical missionary. Suddenly, though, her 18-year old sister becomes pregnant and decides to get married, and Mia puts her plans on hold to try to help Lucy through this big step. Meanwhile, Lucy's husband has a friend named Jake who is a former police officer. Mia and Jake hit it off, which makes her life that much more difficult. She ends up trying to decide if she wants to see where her relationship with Jake goes or if she wants to fulfill her dream of being a medical missionary.

I really liked the characters in this book - they struggle with doubt, and they're honest about how they're feeling. Mia is torn because she wants to be with Jake but she thinks she's not trusting in God if she doesn't do the medical missionary gig. Lucy wants to trust God, but she's afraid of health issues that come with being pregnant. It's just a great story with romance thrown in there. Can't wait to read more from this author.

Thank you to Bethany House for a copy of the book.

Lifestyle of a Watchman (Review)

This review is for the book "The Lifestyle of a Watchman" by James W. Goll. In this book, Goll takes the reader on a 21-day journey to being a mature prayer intercessor. Goll does a fantastic job of pointing out scriptural references to intercessory prayer and using examples of people from the Bible, and then switching to people who use intercessory prayer in modern times. Every chapter ends with a suggested prayer for the reader to pray, and then questions for you to ask yourself and dig deeper. I really liked the stories he used for examples of intercessory prayer. The chapters go over so many situations, such as praying in a crisis, not giving up when you feel like you've been praying for so long, how to fast, how to trust in God for answers, and so on.

I really enjoyed this book and think others would like it as well.

Thank you to Chosen Publishers for a copy of the book.

A Name Unknown (Review)

This review is for the book "A Name Unknown" by Roseanna White. This is the first book in the Shadows of England series. In this book, we meet Rosemary Gresham, who has no family to speak of except the other thieves who have become her family. She actually lives with all of them and they have taught themselves to be "high-class" thieves so that they can survive. Rosemary is quite good at her job, and she is given a job which will really help the family if she succeeds.

She is sent to the home of Peter Holstein to find out some secrets about him. She has to pretend to be a librarian so that she can work for him. The time is drawing near to England being involved in WWI, and many people are afraid of Holstein because of his German name. Rosemary has to find out where his loyalties lie, and she also has to try to keep safe, because someone is out to get either her or Peter. They're both in danger. Not only that, but in the midst of trying to find out his secrets, they are actually starting to fall for one another.

I really liked the characters in this book, and the story, even though I was a little confused at Peter's present-day relationship with Germany, as well as why so many people hated him so much. But I truly enjoyed reading the book and I'd like to read more in the series.

Thank you to Bethany House and Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.

God's Smuggler (Review)

This review is for the book "God's Smuggler". This is the young reader's edition of this book. I have read the original book but I was really excited to read the young reader's edition so that I could make sure it was on a good reading level for my daughter to read it. I am so happy to say that it is perfect for her reading level - I would say anyone on a 4th grade reading level up will enjoy it and understand it - and it has some great action pictures in it which kids will really enjoy. I have read so many stories of Brother Andrew over the last few years and I am always amazed at what he has accomplished in his 89 years. I highly, highly recommend this book for all children and adults to read. It's an absolutely amazing story of what God can do!

Thank you to Cross Focused Reviews for a copy of the book.

Called and Courageous Girls by Harvest House Publishers

It's time to be brave! Growing up as a slave girl, Miriam learned how to be brave-and smart. When her baby brother, Moses, was in grave danger, Miriam and her mom saved his life. As Miriam matured, she became a gifted musician and discovered other God-given talents. And when God called Miriam-along with her siblings-to guide the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt, she was ready to lead. With God's help, you can be just like Miriam-called and courageous!

Called and Courageous Girls - Bible Heroes That Inspire Your Child's Faith in God

Called and courageous girls are disciples, political and spiritual leaders, philanthropists, moms, businesspeople, evangelists, prophets, and so much more. Called and courageous women of the Bible face overwhelming odds, finding strength, faith, and courage to join God's Story.

Through examples of steadfast faith and-ultimately-God's direction, the Called and Courageous Girls series invites your children to answer God's calling to discover and use their talents, passions, and gifts to journey with Him on a lifelong adventure.

God is calling every courageous hero-including your child- to arise, trust in Him, and join the Greatest Story.

Grounded Hearts (Review)

This review is for the book "Grounded Hearts" by Jeanne M. Dickson. In this novel we meet midwife Nan O'Neil. She is a widow who happens to be hounded frequently by a local officer who continues to profess his love for her. He's really just a bother until the day that a wounded Canadian pilot on her front door. This means trouble, because Ireland is neutral in the middle of World War II, so helping either side of the war means facing imprisonment. Nan feels pity for him though, and tries to nurse him back to health. He doesn't get better as quickly as she'd like, and she not only has to fend off the interested police officer, but has to involve some of her local friends to help the pilot - which could mean jail time for them all.

I loved this book and the characters. It was unlike any other book I've read and it was interesting to think how this really could have happened. Nan is not looking for love, but she finds it, and she also finds her courage, strength and faith throughout all of this mess as well.

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.

Super Hero Kids Giveaway with David C Cook!

DOES YOUR CHILD LOVE COMIC BOOKS? HOW ABOUT SUPER HEROES?

Now is your chance to have DC and Marvel illustrator Sergio Cariello make your child's dream come true!

 

Parents!

David C Cook is proud to introduce the newest book in the Action Bible collection: The Action Storybook Bible (coming October 2017). Pre-order The Action Storybook Bible from Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or ChristianBook.com to reserve your copy today. Plus click the graphic below to enter to have a chance to win an illustration of your child as a super hero by Action Bible artist Sergio Cariello (who has also illustrated comics for DC and Marvel!).

 

The giveaway is open until September 11, 2017, 5:00pm MST.  Your entry must be received by then to be eligible. Five winners will be chosen at random from eligible entrants.

---

{THE ACTION STORYBOOK BIBLE}

Families see the Bible in motion and put their faith into action! The Action Storybook Bible invites families with young children to explore God’s redemptive story together. An entry point into the world of The Action Bible, it tells of the amazing creation story, powerful kings who reigned over ancient Israel, God’s miraculous gift of eternal life through Jesus, and more! God’s promise for the world is displayed throughout every page. Discover your family’s place in God’s incredible story and together put your faith into action! Interactive features include:

• Fifteen key episodes from God’s Word—each one loaded with several stories along with over 350 brand-new illustrations throughout.
• Short and easy readings—for children ages eight and under with rich, colorful images.
• Life, Faith, Action! features—conclude every episode and invite families to talk about how God moves in the stories, how to see God in life today, how to put faith into action, and how to easily talk to God with a suggested prayer.
• Hall of Fame visual index—the place to look up favorite Bible characters by discovering their icon connections and finding them in the stories.

Learn more and purchase a copy here.

Hope for the Same-Sex Attracted (Review)

This review is for the book "Hope for the Same-Sex Attracted" by Ron Citlau. Citlau is a pastor who has actually dealt with same-sex attraction in his life. In this book, he shows love and encouragement to those who have feelings of attraction towards the same sex. He does not bash them or show anger towards them. He understands it. But he also shows them that there are options such as celibacy and singleness that are biblical. He encourages people with this struggle to look at those options.

He shows how you need to be plugged into a church and a small group of people who will hold you accountable and also encourage you. He speaks to church leaders and provides ways that they can support these individuals instead of judging them and pushing them away.

Great book, and should be used to encourage those who struggle with these feelings.

Thank you to Cross Focused Reviews for a copy of the book.

Essential Guide to Prayer (Review)

This review is for the book "The Essential Guide to Prayer" by Dutch Sheets. This entire book is on the power of intercessory prayer. He begins by talking about why this is such a priority, and goes into how to be an intercessor and why this is so important. He uses scripture to show great intercessors in the Bible, and how we can use that power today. Every chapter ends with a section called "Did You Understand?" where there are discussion questions to help you think about each chapter more in depth. I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to those wanting to learn more about intercessory prayer and why it is so important.

Thank you to Chosen Publishers for a copy of the book.

Dragon Seed (Review)

This review is for the book "Dragon Seed" by Marty Machowski. I really enjoyed this book and can definitely see older teenagers, young adults and older adults enjoying it as well.

In this book, we meet Nick, an angry teen, who is told by his mother to read a book about their family history. She is at the end of her rope in dealing with him, and hopes this book will change his heart. As Nick reads, he is introduced to the story of Lord Dragon, and how he spreads his dragon seeds. I love this allegory. We learn about how Lord Dragon has minions to spread his dragon seeds in people, which bloom into selfishness, evil, greed, etc. Unfortunately for him, there is a Prince who comes, and when a person is a follower of the Prince, the dragon seeds cannot take root in the person's heart.

I loved this story of good versus evil. I will admit the characters of Nick's family seemed a little corny to me, but the actual story about the dragon seeds was full of excitement and turmoil.

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book.