Review:Rainbow Panda and the Firecracker Fiasco

About the Book:
It’s the eve of the Asian New Year and all the animals are getting ready for the big occasion. They are sweeping, cleaning, planting flowers, writing on ribbons, and preparing food. Rainbow Panda looks forward to the fireworks display but wants to create his own fireworks show. He sets a plan in motion and tries to get Green and Pink Hamster to join him.

The animals know that they are not to play with matches or firecrackers, but nonetheless, continue with their plan. When Rainbow Panda starts to light matches in the woods, he sets the forest on fire and many animals must come to help put out the fire. The Dynasty Dragon’s mom comes and turns into a cloud that rains and puts out the fire. Rainbow Panda, Dynasty Dragon, and both Green and Pink Hamster are given activities to clean up after the fire. They also volunteer to do a beach clean up to show everyone that they are sorry for the fiasco they set in motion.

My Review:
 This is a delightful children's story revolving around the sweetest rainbow colored panda you have ever seen. He is so excited about the upcoming Asian New Year that he seems to get himself in a little bit of trouble when it comes to the tradition of lighting the firecrackers. As a homeschool mom I felt like this would be an excellent resource to teach my children all about the Asian culture and the Chinese New Year.

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for honest review from the publisher.

Review: The Knitting Fairy by:Jaime Marsman

About the Book:
The Knitting Fairy about a dejected librarian turned novice knitter who finds herself caught in a mysterious knitting scandal.

The cast of variegated characters will keep you laughing as the intricately woven chain of events unwinds. The mystery will have you hooked all the way to the end.

 
About the Author:
Since the age of three, Jaime Marsman has long been fascinated with the simple shifting of letters to create different words, thoughts, and sentences.
As a knitwear designer for Live.Knit.Love, she has found the same thing to also be true of yarn. Perhaps that would explain the joy she feels every time she picks up her pen or her needles. Inspiring others with her work is one of Jaime's fondest goals and dreams. She wants people to realize the joy of creating and following their dreams in their own special ways.
Jaime is so grateful to God for His love and guiding hand in her life. She prays that everyone comes to have the joy and peace of knowing Him.

My Review:
 The Knitting Fairy is a very sweet book written about Molly Stevenson. She is a twenty something employed as an assistant librarian, who lives in Spring-gate. The book starts out innocent enough but soon things start changing all around her. The way she talks about the "Mother Goose" type old lady that comes to return a book that is over forty years old has you wondering right away where this is headed. Molly doesn't want to charge the little old lady such an astronomical amount for this very old book. But Molly's boss, head librarian Mrs. Goldmyer, sees it a different way and fires Molly.

 As Molly is trying to figure out what to do next, she is greeted by Mother Goose offers her a job at her store Crab Apple Yarns. Which Molly is unsure about because she knows nothing about any type of yarn crafting. But she needs the job. Soon things start happening that can't be explained. And Molly finds herself in the middle of a real life mystery.

 My favorite character was Molly, she reminds me alot of myself. She is a girly girl type character that would be easy to get along with. The author has written a very fun, whimsical book that can be enjoyed by knitters or by people that have never even picked knitting needles up.

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from ShadeTree Publishing.

Review: Trouble In Store by:Carol Cox

 
About the Book:
Fired from her most recent governess position, Melanie Ross must embrace her last resort: the Arizona mercantile she inherited from her cousin. But Caleb Nelson is positive he inherited the mercantile, and he's not about to let some obstinate woman with newfangled ideas mess up all he's worked for. He's determined to get Melanie married off as soon as possible, and luckily there are plenty of single men in town quite interested in taking her off his hands.
The problem is, Caleb soon realizes he doesn't want her to marry up with any of them. He's drawn to Melanie more every day, and he has to admit some of her ideas for the store unexpectedly offer positive results.
But someone doesn't want the store to succeed, and what used to be just threatening words has escalated into deliberate destruction and lurkers in the night. When a body shows up on the mercantile steps--and the man obviously didn't die from natural causes--things really get dangerous. Can Melanie and Caleb's business--and romance--survive the trouble that's about to come their way?

 
About the Author:
Native Arizonan Carol Cox has an abiding love for history, mystery, and romance. The author of more than 25 books, she believes in the power of story to convey spiritual truths. A pastor's wife and homeschooling mom, she makes her home with her husband and daughter in a remote spot in northern Arizona, where the deer and the antelope really do play--within view of the family's front porch. Learn more at www.authorcarolcox.com.

My Review:
Melanie had a great job working for the Deaver's as a governess until one day Mrs. Deaver decided to have a party. This included Melanie being in charge of 7 kids while the adults talked and had a wonderful time. Everything was going well, Melanie had successful watched them until it was time for everyone to leave.But Mrs. Deaver's son decided to go get a horse from the stables and take it for a joy ride. Melanie decided to run after the horse which really didn't help any. The ending of his little ride was outrageous the boy with a sprained shoulder and her fired. So she decides to get out of Ohio and head back to her home town in Arizona.
Caleb is a single parent of a cute little boy named Levi. Running a store isn't all its cracked up to be. But when Melanie comes there everything goes hog wild. Guys are proposing to her, his sons sets fire to something and all she want's is to speak with his deceased Uncle. As everything is running wild, Melanie wait's on him for his time and his help.
Needing a place to stay and a place to work Melanie is in need of Caleb's help, but will she find more in him then she had planned on? Is he going to be able to help her or was all of this a waste of time?

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Bethany House.

Review: Dragonwitch by:Anna Elizabeth Stengl

About the Book:
Who Will Dare to Face the Dragonwitch?

Submissive to her father’s will, Lady Leta of Aiven travels far to meet a prospective husband she neither knows nor loves–Lord Alistair, future king of the North Country.

But within the walls of Gaheris Castle, all is not right. Vicious night terrors plague Lord Alistair to the brink of insanity. Whispers rise from the family crypt. The reclusive castle Chronicler, Leta’s tutor and friend, possesses a secret so dangerous it could cost his life and topple the North Country into civil war.

And far away in a hidden kingdom, a fire burns atop the Temple of the Sacred Flame. Acolytes and priestesses serve their goddess to the limits of their lives and deaths. No one is safe while the Dragonwitch searches for the sword that slew her twice…and for the one person who can wield it.


About the Author:
Anne Elisabeth Stengl is the author of the acclaimed TALES OF GOLDSTONE WOOD series, including Starflower; Veiled Rose; winner of the 2012 Christy Award for Visionary novel; and Heartless, the winner of the 2011 Christy Award for First Novel. She makes her home in Raleigh, North Carolina, where she lives with her husband, Rohan, a dog, and a passel of cats. Learn more at www.anneelisabethstengl.blogspot.com.

My Review:
 The book begins with Lord Alistair waking up screaming from one of his nightmares. The servants were quite scared of him and often avoided him. He barely crawled to the Chronicles library to speak with the Chronicle about his dream. The Chronicle acted coolly but truly didn't care. It seemed as soon as Lord Alistair got to reading his daily reading work a page came a calling. Alistair demanded he tell him what the big deal was. His Bride, Lady Leta had arrived. He practically ran down the stairs, still not making it in enough time to please his mother.

 Lady Leta was barely tall enough to be a girl much less a woman. She hardly reached Alastair's shoulder. She unwillingly came to this castle and tried her best to fit in.  But knowing that one she was to wed barely wanted anything to do with her, she took a liking to the Chronicle. He was nice enough to her and now helping her learn how to read. Maybe after all she would make happiness out of this, God forsaken life she was dealt.

 This book takes on a life of its own. It is rich in Medieval history which is a huge interest to my children. I read them the book and they enjoyed it immensely.

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Bethany House.

 

Review&Giveaway:Alone Yet Not Alone by:Tracy Leininger Craven

 
About the Book:
  The Leininger family settled deep within America's new frontier in the Blue Mountains of Pennsylvania. A sudden Indian raid changed their lives forever. This story retells the heroic and daring escape of Barbara Leininger, and the touching reunion with her sister, Regina, after nine years. It also gives us an endearing portrayal of the love between family members and the strength of childhood memories. Father and Mother Leininger's commitment to 'hide' God's Word in the hearts of their children.

My Review:
 This book based on a true story is a very compelling story that will make you smile, cry, and even shout in victory. After a short time in America this German family found themselves in a very helpless circumstance that could possibly prove deadly. When they were victims of a bloody massacre by the Iroquois Indians. Some of their family members were killed along with countless other families in the area. The two young girls in this particular family were captured to later be turned into Indian maidens. After much trial, circumstance, and separation the eldest of the two daughters manages to escape with three others.

 The ending result for the Leininger family was an even stronger faith in God that kept them hoping against all hope that all of the family members would be reunited safely one day. The journey that it took for this family to be reunited is a miraculous one that God had His hands on.

 It took me one day to read the book cover to cover and I loved it. Recently, I found out that this dramatic story will be made into a movie and will be released in theaters on September 27, 2013. Which I know my family and I are looking forward to. But I have great news, you don't have to wait to get your hands on a copy of this book. My sponsor has graciously offered to give a copy of the book to one of my readers. So please enter below, you won't regret it!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Flyby Promotions. 

Review:Ragged Hope by:Cynthia Ruchti

 
About the Book:
It is one thing to live with the consequences of your own choices, but what happens when your life is changed because of someone else's? This insightful and uplifting guide will comfort, support and encourage you through whatever situation you must face. Cynthia Ruchti, who has walked this road herself, assures readers that God is ever present and His love never wavers. There is hope, grace, and a future in every situation, especially those that we did not cause.

About the Author:
Cynthia Ruchti is the author of the critically acclaimed Where the Morning Glory Blooms and They Almost Always Come Home. She also writes and produces the daily 15-minute radio broadcast, The Heartbeat of the Home, and is editor of the broadcast's Backyard Friends magazine. She served a two-year term as president of American Christian Fiction Writers and currently serves as ACFW's Professional Relations Liaison. In addition to writing novels, devotionals, and magazine articles, she speaks for women's events and writers' conferences. Cynthia and her plot-tweaking husband live in Pittsville, Wisconsin, where she creates stories of Hope-that-glows-in-the-dark. Find Cynthia on the web at CynthiaRuchti.com.

My Review:
 Do you ever wonder how people move up, move out, and move on after a devastating loss or break up? Maybe after their home has burned to the ground, are people able to pick up and start over. After all they have known is burned, charred, and literally destroyed. Or maybe when a stay at home mom tries to put together a family Christmas with all the trimmings and give her children a profound set of holiday memories only to have it overshadowed by their absent father. When he decides he doesn't love her anymore and right this minute on Christmas day no less, he decides it's the perfect time to walk out on his family.

 In Cynthia Ruchti's book Ragged Hope, she takes these stories and many more like them and shows us how we can also cling to the same faith that these people did and still come out on top. It is in the midst of these trials that God is there holding our hands and catching our tears. His love is unwavering and happily devoted to getting us through it all, in every way imaginable.

 It is in these times that He does His best work. No matter how impossible the solution may seem God will bring you through it. The author is showing us all, this and more. Resting in Him is always the only choice we have.

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review by Litfuse.

Not Just ANY Points Earning Club......

 

 I'm no stranger to the points earning sites. I have enrolled in most of them. But the Tyndale Rewards program offers so much more of an opportunity to earn points and you can redeem those points for awesome Tyndale products. Sign up is free and you can do so at this link. Read below to find out more about this great opportunity.

About Tyndale Rewards

The Tyndale Rewards program is designed to provide you with opportunities to get books and Bibles for zero dollars. That’s right—F. R. E. E. As a member of the Tyndale Rewards program, you’ll have access to inspiring literature, Bibles, special promotional offers, and much more.

Other member incentives include a free gift on your birthday, along with opportunities to share your personal recommendations and feedback concerning Tyndale products. The more participation you have with the program, the more points you earn—and points translate into free stuff!

The Tyndale Rewards program is a great way to get free books and Bibles that you can keep for yourself or give to friends and family. Your journey to earning free faith-based products is here!

 **Disclosure** Included in this post are referral links.

Litfuse Review:Anomaly by:Krista McGee

 
About the Book:
 Thalli has fifteen minutes and twenty-three seconds left to live. The toxic gas that will complete her annihilation is invading her bloodstream. But she is not afraid.

Thalli is different than others in The State. She feels things. She asks questions. And in the State, this is not tolerated. The Ten scientists who survived the nuclear war that destroyed the world above believe that emotion was at the core of what went wrong—and they have genetically removed it from the citizens they have since created. Thalli has kept her malformation secret from those who have monitored her for most of her life, but when she receives an ancient piece of music to record as her community’s assigned musician, she can no longer keep her emotions secreted away.

Seen as a threat to the harmony of her Pod, Thalli is taken to the Scientists for immediate annihilation. But before that can happen, Berk—her former Pod mate who is being groomed as a Scientist—steps in and persuades the Scientists to keep Thalli alive as a test subject.

The more time she spends in the Scientist’s Pod, the clearer it becomes that things are not as simple as she was programmed to believe. She hears stories of a Designer—stories that fill her mind with more questions: Who can she trust? What is this emotion called love? And what if she isn’t just an anomaly, but part of a greater design?

About the Author:
When Krista McGee isn't living in fictional worlds of her own creation, she lives in Tampa and spends her days as a wife, mom, teacher, and coffee snob. She is also the author of Anomaly, First Date, Starring Me, and Right Where I Belong.

My Review:
The book starts out with Thalli thinking she was a little different but not enough to be annihilated. She starts having nose bleeds as a few of her Pod mates have also had. But instead of blood pouring out, its this yellow gritty liquid. Thalli has been getting more and more curious about life before the nuclear war. Thalli, being the musician of Pod C, was given some old sheet music. As she plays this piece on piano, she feels the grace and beauty of the world. She can't help but feeling overwhelmed and start crying. As she starts crying, she ends up in the floor with papers all over the floor. As the monitors find her in this condition, they decide to inform the scientists of her condition, because this is not normal.

 About a week later, Thalli wakes up from her slumber to one of the scientist who will evaluate her and decide whether or not to annihilate her. They decided it would be best to annihilate her but her old friend Berk decides it would be a better idea to try and change her themselves. But as she goes through the test she is learning more about "The Designer" and life before the nuclear war. As she learns more about the life before she learns about true love and what it feels like to be in love because she has feelings for Berk.

 This book is an excellent example of Christian science fiction. I really liked this book.

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for honest review from Litfuse.

Litfuse Review: Rosemary Cottage by:Colleen Coble

About the Book:
The cottage by the sea offers Amy a refuge to mourn her brother’s death and perhaps even discover a new love. But what if Ben’s death was no accident?
Rosemary Cottage on the Outer Banks of North Carolina has been in Amy Lang’s family for generations and offers her a haven within its peaceful walls. There she hopes to discover what really happened to her brother, Ben, even as she tries to come to grips with his death in the ocean months before.
She hopes the Coast Guard team will help her find closure, but they are quick to dismiss her concerns of foul play. Everyone in Hope Beach regards the suspicious e-mail she received as a vicious prank. When it seems discovering what happened to Ben will take longer than she expected, Amy moves her midwifery practice to Hope Beach.
Coast Guard officer Curtis Ireland may hold the key to many of her questions, but he also hides a secret that will change her world forever. And her own secrets could tear apart the fragile love developing between them. Will Amy have the courage to put down her mask and let Curtis love her for who she is? And can they both weather the danger that threatens to destroy the most precious thing in their lives?
 
About the Author:
Carol Award winner Colleen Coble lives with her husband, Dave, in Indiana. She is the author of dozens of novels including the Rock Harbor Series, the Aloha Reef Series, the Mercy Falls Series, the Hope Beach Series, the Lonestar Series and two Women of Faith fiction selections, Alaska Twilight and Midnight Sea. She has more than 2 million books in print.

My Review:
 Amy Lange has decided to move to the town of Outer Banks. She wants to move there because she and her family have always loved to visit. But that isn't her only reason for moving there. She needs to investigate her brothers death. She was told he died due to a surfing accident. But Amy isn't buying it.

 Curtis Ireland has helped his sister Gina raise her daughter Raine until a boating accident claimed her life. Now all he wants to do is to raise his niece Raine in peace. That is until he finds out that Raine's fathers sister is in town and that suddenly his custody of Raine hangs in the balance.

 Amy isn't aware of any new family members but soon Curtis feels like he is being drawn to this girl that he she actually despise.

 This book is #2 in the Hope Beach Series.

 Colleen Coble is an author known for her juicy novels. She leaves no page left unturned. This book has something happening in every chapter. It is sure to get under your skin and pretty soon you can't put it down.

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge from Litfuse for my honest review.

Review:The Journal by:Beth Harlow

 
About the Book:
A young Confederate soldier is given a journal as he departs for war in 1861. The little book soon falls into the hands of another and another and another. The journal travels all through the war, crossing battle lines several times and presenting thoughts from both sides of the war.
Each soldier who writes in the journal is in a different situation and each is in a different place in his relationship with God. The words that others have written in the journal have an effect on those who acquire possession of the book later, and the journal becomes quite important to each soldier.

My Review:
 This book was a very short read but very touching. I really enjoyed reading it. I am a homeschool mom so I decided to read it to my children and they enjoyed it as well. They are very fascinated with the Civil War right now so the book was a perfect addition to their school work.

 The book begins with Mary giving her fiance a blank journal as he is going off to war. Something where he can record memories that they can share when he comes home. But not soon after her fiance begins to write and record the happenings of war life the journal is found by another soldier that starts to write in it also. This little book changes hands many times and travels across enemy lines as well.

  Each person that receives the journal is helped in some way by the words of the previous writer. By the end of the book I was thinking how wonderful it would of been if this book were true and there really had been a war journal floating around like that between soldiers. Something that would of comforted them, I'm sure would of been a Godsend in a situation like that.

 This book The Journal, is Beth Harlow's first book and I thoroughly enjoyed every single page of it. I think the characters seemed very real and full of raw emotion. The connection between them and the Civil War is a brilliant concept. I look forward reading more from this author.

If you are interested in purchasing this product or learning more about it please visit this link.

Disclosure of Material: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookCrash.com book review program, which requires an honest, though not necessarily positive, review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR Title 16, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
 

Review:The 40 Most Influential Christians... Who Shaped What We Believe Today by:D. Aaron

 
About the Book:
Compelling Accounts of Key People Who Have Formed Christian Belief through the Ages
All Christians' beliefs are shaped by those who went before them. Now these giants of Christian history are presented chronologically and in a format that helps readers get to know them. In addition to a biographical sketch, readers will discover each person's primary contributions to the Christian faith along with a brief quotation from their work. Students, history buffs, and curious readers will be fascinated as their faith is strengthened. Included are Polycarp, Justin Martyr, Augustine, Thomas Aquinas, Martin Luther, John Calvin, Karl Barth, Carl F. H. Henry, and more.


My Review:
 Daryl Aaron has put together an awesome Theology resource whether you endeavor to be a Bible scholar, minister, or just someone who would like a more thorough understanding on the background of the Bible. The author has taken the top 40 most influential Christians that changed the face of Christianity as we know it today. With their thoughts, sermons or their publications, these individuals have come to be known as people that can completely change your thoughts on God.

 Whether its Dietrich Bonhoeffer and his stance against Nazism or Jurgen Moltmann with his latest approach on Theology from the perspective of eschatology. These brilliant minds gave us so much with their minds and with their Christian walk that we will never be able to repay. Their dramatic and innate works have driven me to research more about them.

 This book not only highlights the 40 most influential Christians but also the most brilliant.

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Bethany House.

Review:The One Year Devos for Teen Girls by:Gresh/Weibel

 
About the Book:
"The One Year Devos for Teen Girls" is a fresh new devotional just for teen girls by popular author Dannah Gresh. The subject matter is current and includes modern topics. The devotions often utilize social media such as viewing YouTube videos and dealing with Facebook. While the subject matter is modern, Gresh, in her solid big-sister fashion, points girls to the unchanging Word of God. She meets girls where they are and simply explains what God's Word says about the issue. The devotional reads like a handbook on living as a teen girl in today's society. Gresh doesn't shy away from controversial issues, but gives a biblical perspective on topics teens are sure to wonder about, such as sexuality, bullying, self-worth, church issues, hypocrisy, and Facebook. Gresh writes the devotional with Suzy Weibel, the wife of her pastor.
 
About the Author:
Dannah lives in State College, Pennsylvania, with her husband, Bob, and their children, Robby, Lexi, and Autumn, whom the family adopted from China in 2007. She and her husband founded Grace Prep, a new model in Christian high school education, which Bob administrates. She is shamelessly in love with her labradoodle, Stormie. 

 My Review:
 Dannah Gresh and Suzy Weibel have put together a complete one year devotional for teen girls. It is an all in one type of devotional for teen girls that encompasses subjects relative to girls these days. This devotional is set up so that you can start it any day of the year. Each ay also includes an action step. These action steps are designed for you to put to work what you have learned that day during your devotion time. The authors want to stretch you mentally, physically, and spiritually to where you can be the best possible Christian teen girl that you can be.

 I love the way the devotional is set up and I agree that it is a great learning tool for every teen girl out there. It should gain alot of popularity among teens because it hits home on some very interesting topics. Our girls should learn as early as possible that God should be the basis for their life from now on and that they are nothing without Him.

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Tyndale Blog Network.

Review:Redeeming Love by:Francine Rivers

About the Book:
California's gold country, 1850. A time when men sold their souls for a bag of gold and women sold their bodies for a place to sleep.

Angel expects nothing from men but betrayal. Sold into prostitution as a child she survives by keeping her hatred alive. And what she hates most are the men who use her, leaving her empty and dead inside.

Then she meets Michael Hosea. A man who seeks his Father's heart in everything, Michael obeys God's call to marry Angel and to love her unconditionally. Slowly, day by day, he defies Angel's every bitter expectation, until despite her resistance, her frozen heart begins to thaw.

But with her unexpected softening come overwhelming feelings of unworthiness and fear. And so Angel runs. Back to the darkness, away from her husband's pursuing love, terrified of the truth she no longer can deny: Her final healing must come from the One who loves her even more than Michael does ... the One who will never let her go.
 
About the Author:
Francine and her husband, Rick, live in northern California and enjoy time spent with their three grown children and every opportunity to spoil their grandchildren. She uses her writing to draw closer to the Lord, and that through her work she might worship and praise Jesus for all He has done and is doing in her life.

My Review:
 As I started reading this book, I noticed that Angel's life wasn't all that it cracked up to be. Angel being a beautiful child went through a lot of things a child shouldn't, which one is being hated by her father. He had never wanted a child from Angel's mother. Which who would since you have 4 kids and an aristocrat wife at home? Hearing these things come from her fathers mouth was really too much for a child of her age to bear. After a while, Angel's father visited less and her mother grew more and more frail. But one day their good friend decided to take Angel on a trip to the beach. Which wasn't such a good idea, the woman kept getting drunk and didn't really take the best of care for her.

 Later Angel's mother lost their little cottage, and they moved in to an old run down house close to the beach. Odd mean visited and they soon had a fair amount of money. But day after day her mother grew paler and paler and one day passed away. Angel was left alone with only her thoughts and her uncle. Her uncle wasn't the best and he got drunk often. But one day he had found a man asking around for little girls because he wanted to have a little girl of his own. Well her uncle got her all dressed up to visit this man of which carried a deep secret.

 But now Angel is guarded by a bodyguard and doesn't get to do much. She doesn't really remember much from her past but when she does she wishes it away.Micheal just happens to be in town when he catches Angel walking. But the one thing that comes to his mind is that he is going to marry her and he isn't going to wait. He goes right up to her with the bodyguard right there and tries to talk to her.

Will he be able to go through with this or will her owner stop it before it even begins? Is she going to go along with it or run the other way?

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me for free for my honest review from the Blogging for Books program.

CFBA Review:Harvest of Gold by:Tessa Afshar

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Harvest of Gold River North; New Edition edition (July 1, 2013) by Tessa Afshar

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

TESSA AFSHAR was voted "New Author of the Year" by the Family Fiction sponsored Reader's Choice Award 2011 for her novel Pearl in the Sand. She was born in Iran, and lived there for the first fourteen years of her life. She moved to England where she survived boarding school for girls and fell in love with Jane Austen and Charlotte Bronte, before moving to the United States permanently. Her conversion to Christianity in her twenties changed the course of her life forever. Tessa holds an MDiv from Yale University where she served as co-chair of the Evangelical Fellowship at the Divinity School. She has spent the last thirteen years in full-time Christian work.

ABOUT THE BOOK

The scribe Sarah married Darius, and at times she feels as if she has married the Persian aristocracy, too. There is another point she did not count on in her marriage-Sarah has grown to love her husband. Sarah has wealth, property, honor, and power, but her husband's love still seems unattainable.

Although his mother was an Israelite, Darius remains skeptical that his Jewish wife is the right choice for him, particularly when she conspires with her cousin Nehemiah to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. Ordered to assist in the effort, the couple begins a journey to the homeland of his mother's people. Will the road filled with danger, conflict, and surprising memories, help Darius to see the hand of God at work in his life-and even in his marriage?

A hidden message, treachery, opposition, and a God-given success, will lead to an unlikely bounty.

If you'd like to read the first chapter of Harvest of Gold, go HERE.

My Review:
After hearing of one of the gardeners wives having a baby, Sarah can't help but want a child of her own but Darius doesn't seem to be all that in to her. Now it seems something has changed, he's been coming to her side with out even being requested. He catches her in the hallway just to kiss her. He comes to talk to her as she's just finished bathing. After Darius and Sarah head out on a two day trip, someone attacks them in the middle of the night. Darius awakens in enough time just to find the five invaders gagging and trying to tie his 4 guards. He jumps right in to action leaving Sarah sleeping were he was. After taking a few down, he wakes Sarah to hide her, who knows what these men would do to her. When he is finished with the fight and tying them up,  Sarah runs to his side. Together they uncover the dark mission, these men were on. Which could mean death to them and the King Artaxerxes.

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from CFBA.

Litfuse Review: A Big Year for Lily by: Kinsinger/Fisher

 
About the Book:
Lily Lapp's family has settled into their new home in Pennsylvania, but life still holds big changes and big steps for Lily. Good changes, like once again living close to her beloved cousin and best friend, Hannah. Bad changes, like a mean girl who plays tricks on her. And no change at all where Lily would most want one--Aaron Yoder sits near her in school and relentlessly teases her. Surprises are in store for Lily as she learns, with Mama and Papa's help, to manage the ups and downs of growing up Amish.
The third of four charming novels that chronicle the gentle way of the Amish through the eyes of a young girl, "A Big Year for Lily" gives children ages 8-12 a fascinating glimpse into the life of the Amish--and lots of fun and laughter along the way. It combines Mary Ann Kinsinger's real-life stories of growing up Amish and the bestselling writing of Amish fiction and nonfiction author Suzanne Woods Fisher. With charming line drawings in each book, this series captures the hearts of readers young and old.

About the Authors:
Mary Ann Kinsinger was raised Old Order Amish in Somerset County, Pennsylvania. She met and married her husband, whom she knew from school days, and started a family. After they chose to leave the Amish church, Mary Ann began a blog, A Joyful Chaos, as a way to pass on her warm childhood memories to her own children. From the start, this blog found a ready audience and even captured the attention of key media players, such as the influential blog AmishAmerica and the New York Times. She lives in Pennsylvania.

Suzanne Woods Fisher is the bestselling author of The Choice, The Waiting, The Search, A Lancaster County Christmas, The Keeper, and The Haven, as well as nonfiction books about the Amish, including Amish Peace. Her interest in the Anabaptist cultures can be directly traced to her grandfather, who was raised in the Old Order German Baptist Brethren Church in Franklin County, Pennsylvania. Suzanne is a Christy Award finalist and a Carol Award finalist. She is the host of internet radio show Amish Wisdom, which boasts 15,000 downloads a month, and a columnist for Christian Post and Cooking & Such magazines. She lives in California. Find out more
at www.suzannewoodsfisher.com.

My Review:
 I love the Adventures of Lily Lapp series.  They are similar to the Little House books, the only difference is that they are Amish. These are perfect for little girls. But my boys enjoyed listening to the books being read aloud.

 In book 3 of the series we find Lily at 9 years old full of spunk and adventure. And as all little girls are at that age longing to be older and more grown up. She tries to outsmart Effie Kauffman at the very beginning of the book. But as a result Lily and an apple tree, with the most tempting apple hanging overhead, have a disagreement instead.

 I loved reading about Lily's latest adventures. She is a very sweet girl with alot going on. Her family just recently moved into a new home and as Lily soon finds out, she has some visitors in her new attic room. Much unwanted visitors at that. Can't wait to see what is next with this series. The authors are on to something with this character.

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me for free from Litfuse for my honest review.

Review:The Amish Canning Cookbook by:Georgia Varozza

 
About the Book:
From the author of The Homestyle Amish Kitchen Cookbook comes a great new collection of recipes, hints, and Plain wisdom for everyone who loves the idea of preserving fresh, wholesome foods. Whether instructing a beginning canner or helping a seasoned cook hone her skills, certified Master Food Preserver Georgia Varozza shows people how to get the very best out of their food. Here, readers will find...
a short history of canning lists of all the tools and supplies needed to get started basic instructions for safe canning recipes for canning fruit, vegetables, meat, soups, sauces, and more guidelines for adapting recipes to fit personal tastes
With its expert advice and warm tones, The Amish Canning Cookbook will become a beloved companion to those who love the tradition, frugality, and home-style flavor of Amish cooking!

About the Author:
Georgia Varozza, author of The Homestyle Amish Kitchen Cookbook (nearly 50,000 copies sold), is a certified master food preserver. She teaches people how to prepare and preserve healthy foods; live simply with integrity, and get the most from what they have. She works in publishing and lives in a small Oregon community. Georgia loves being with her kids and grandkids and enjoys cooking, spinning, and knitting. Visit Georgia at www.georgiaplainandsimple.blogspot.com.

My Review:
 The Amish have a knack for taking plain and simple living and making it very attractive to an Englisher. Georgia Varozza's latest book The Amish Canning Cookbook is just that. It takes canning something as plain and simple that seems an arduous task and gives it to you straight forward and easy to understand.

 The author has politely gone through and chosen several items to inform us of and explain in relation to the subject and the ways of the Amish in connection to it. Ms. Varozza gives you a brief history on canning. As every good canner will tell you, you will need a list of things to get you started, this list is included in the book. The author takes into consideration that you just may be new to all of this. For example, did you know that there are two different methods of canning, one being the water bath canning method and the other being the pressure canner method?

 There are many aspects to canning that can be learned and used for years and generations to come. Recipes are included, which is a great help to those of us just starting out.  You will not only learn to can vegetables or learn to make jams and jellies but you will also learn how to can different types of meats. The ideas and possibilities are endless. And what was also helpful; that was included in the book, was a whole chapter dedicated to the what went wrong crowd, if your attempt at this didn't go quite as expected.

 The author has thought of everything you could possibly need and then some in the hopes of being a help to you and your family.

 **Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge from Harvest House Publishers for my honest review.

Litfuse Review: A Bride For All Seasons by:Brownley/Clopton/Connealy/Hatcher

About the Book:
1800s mail-order bride catalogs facilitated many happy marriages. Here are the stories of four couples who owe their wedded bliss to creative editing by The Hitching Post publisher.

“And Then Came Spring”—Margaret Brownley
Sheriff Tom Garrett wants vengeance on his brother’s murderers, but he must think of his orphaned nephew. Then Mary-Jo shows up, swearing she married Tom’s brother by proxy and he’d neglected to mention a son.

“An Ever-After Summer”—Debra Clopton
Widower Matt McConnell wrote his ad with no room for misunderstanding—Bible believers need not apply. But Bible-thumping Ellie shows up on his doorstep. Matt’s so desperate for her help that he accepts.

“Autumn’s Angel”—Robin Lee Hatcher
Luvena Abbott is a singing sensation in New York. But as guardian to her brother’s children, she has few options to provide a home. Clay Birch won an abandoned theater in a poker game. The Hitching Post editor thinks they’ll make a perfect match.

“Winter Wedding Bells”—Mary Connealy
David Laramie is looking for a woman to care for his children. In exchange he’ll make her financially comfortable for life. But no woman wants to marry a dying man. Then Megan responds to his ad. It seems his “edited” letter contained no mention of him dying.


About the Authors:
New York Times best-selling author Margaret Brownley has penned more than twenty-five historical and contemporary novels. Her books have won numerous awards, including Reader's Choice. She has published the Rocky Creek series, and A Lady like Sarah was a Romance Writers of America RITA (C) finalist. Happily married to her real life hero, Margaret and her husband have three grown children and live in Southern California.

Award winning novelist Debra Clopton is the popular Mule Hollow series--the town readers wish was real. She has written 23 books since 2004 and writes books that give God the glory and helps you meet life with a smile. Her books are thought provoking, fun entertainment. Debra's awards include: Inspirational Readers Choice Award, Book Sellers Best, RT Book of the year and others. Her nominations include the prestigious Golden Heart, The Carol, The Holt among others.

Mary Connealy writes fun and lively "romantic comedy with cowboys" for the inspirational market. She is the author of the successful Lassoed in Texas, Montana Marriages, and Sophie's Daughters series, and her novel Calico Canyon was nominated for a Christy Award. She lives on a ranch in eastern Nebraska with her husband, Ivan, and has four grown daughters. Visit her at maryconnealy.com or her blog mconnealy.blogspot.com. 

Best-selling novelist Robin Lee Hatcher is known for her heartwarming and emotionally charged stories of faith, courage, and love. The winner of the Christy Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction, the RITA Award for Best Inspirational Romance, the RT Career Achievement Award, and the RWA Lifetime Achievement Award, Robin is the author of over 65 novels.

My Review:
And Then Came Spring
Mary Jo waited at the train station for two hours to later find out the man that was suppose to pick her up died. Bursting in the church during his funeral she not only made everyone think she was crazy, but sent fireworks flying between her and Tom Garrett. It seemed no matter what they did she was stuck with him, and he with her. Tom had enough to deal with between catching his brothers killer and raising his brothers son, the last thing he needed was a fiery woman. But his nephew had other ideas.
An Ever-After Summer
Matt McConnell didn't ask for a girl like Ellie, that being a "Bible-Thumper". He asked for a practical woman, not a religious one, but that isn't what he got. Ellie may cry around a Bible and pray but she definitely has what it takes to be his wife and his daughters mother. Is Matt willing to give her a chance? Will Ellie be able to handle this new life?
Autumn's Angel
Clay Birch had no clue what he was getting when he asked Luvena Abbott to marry him. She was not only bringing the things she needed but she was also bringing along children. Three to be exact. Problem is he didn't ask for children too, and apparently she told him about the three tikes in her letters. But even if he sends them packing they've got no where to go and he still needs help with his new opera house. Question is, is he willing to over look the kids and still marry her or are the kids a deal breaker?
Winter Wedding Bells
Death, is one thing Megan McBride isn't going to let stand in her way, of having a happy marriage. Amazingly Melvin Hitchcock has done it again, he's taken a few things out of David Laramie's letters to Megan. As in he may die in a year. But Megan isn't going to stand by while he complains about it and feels sorry for himself. She's going to help David and his two boys have the time of their lives. Maybe David will come to seeing that he shouldn't give up and live life to the fullest.

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Litfuse.

Review:Betsy Beansprout Camping Guide by:Amber Elmore

 
About the Book:
The "Betsy Beansprout Camping Guide" is the third book in the Betsy Beansprout Series that teaches kids how to have fun outdoors. Each book is written from the perspective of a six-year-old girl who lives on a state park, and therefore, considers herself a nature expert. The books are packed full of science and nature facts, as well as discussion points designed as questions from Betsy to the reader. This series is already a favorite classroom resource for teachers
 
My Review:
 Each of the Betsy Beansprout books are written from the perspective of a 6 year old girl by the name of Betsy. She is funny and sweet all rolled into one. This spunky, little girl considers herself to be a nature expert and on this adventure she tells us all about camping. Whether its camping under the night sky or in her own living room. She has done it all!

  There is a list of all the camping gear you will need along with "do's and don'ts" of making this your best camping trip yet. Included is some very kid friendly recipes to try. The sky is the limit with this one. The author has included all kinds of fun ideas for your next camping trip.

 The Betsy Beansprout book series is so much fun. I can't wait to read my children the next one. I just know your children will enjoy them too!

 If you are interested in purchasing this book, you can do so at this link

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher.

Review:Betsy Beansprout Bird-Watching Guide by:Amber Elmore

About the Book:
The Betsy Beansprout Bird-Watching Guide is the second book in the Betsy Beansprout Series, which teaches kids how to have fun outside. Each book is written from the perspective of a six-year-old girl who lives on a state park, and therefore, considers herself a nature expert. The books are packed full of science and nature facts, as well as discussion points designed as questions from Betsy to the reader. This series is already a favorite classroom resource for teachers.


My Review:
 Upon looking at the cover of the book I fell in love with Betsy. She is a cute red-haired, freckle faced little girl that is always ready for an adventure. Betsy Beansprout is the best nature expert this side of West Virginia. She has everything listed in her book so that you will have all the supplies you need to watch all kinds of birds.

 She gives you all the "do's and don't s" of bird watching. There are names of many different birds included in the book. You can even do the bird feeder ornament craft with your child that is located in the book. Betsy even gives us a peek inside her own field guide. And the author has put a neat little activity for your child to do in the back of the book.

 Amber Elmore, the author has done an amazing job. I absolutely love the character and the whole storyline. An delightful series that tell us all about God's creation.

 If you are interested in purchasing this book, you can do so at this link.

 **Disclosure** This book was sent to me at no charge for my honest review from the publisher.

CrossReads Book Blast: One Night With a Rock Star by Chana Keefer, $50 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway

 CrossReads Book Blast: One Night With a Rock Star by Chana Keefer, $50 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway

One Night With a Rock Star

By: Chana Keefer

FREE TODAY FOR AMAZON KINDLE!

About the Book

It's Anne of Green Gables Meets Rattle & Hum. Worlds collide. When Esther was a young teen with frizzy hair and too-skinny legs, Sky’s music soothed her through awkwardness and pain. Now she’s a college journalism student and fledgling print model. One chance meeting rocks their worlds. Will Esther's deep roots in family and faith keep her feet on the ground when a tornado named Sky blows her world apart? This coming-of-age tale will delight young adult, new adult & adult audiences alike with homespun humor, dazzling celebrity, and a heart-wrenching tale that transports the reader from the wide open spaces of Texas, to the castle-dotted Scottish highlands. Explores themes of spirituality, relationship with God versus religion, and how one can have it all yet still search for meaning and purpose in life. One Night With a Rock Star is a rich, satisfying journey filled with multi-dimensional, lovable characters, sigh-worthy romance and a tale that will carve itself onto your soul.

See more About this FREE eBOOK at Amazon!

(Then Scroll Below to Enter the $50 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway)

[ez_one_fourth]

[/ez_one_fourth] [ez_three_fourth_last] Chana Keefer This whole writer's journey caught me completely by surprise and, to this day, I'm a bit stunned by the ride. Blame it all on prayer. In 2004 I committed to pray every day, right out of the sack, for at least an hour. A year later I woke in the morning from a very cool dream. As the week went on, the dream wouldn't let go. It expanded in my brain until I HAD to start writing or just... explode. That story? One Night With a Rock Star. It's the novel that transformed me into a passionate storyteller. Two years later, in the middle of prayer, I asked a question and God answered. I yelped in shock but also had to admit the answer made so many of my faith elephants-in-the-room make sense. For the next month, every morning began with more mind-blowing insights. When I showed the 250 pages of notes to my hubby and an author friend, they both said, "This needs to be a novel." The journey of writing THE FALL was much more than writing a novel. It was a pilgrimage that crushed, shaped and changed me; the way I think, the way I pray, the way I love, even the way I view current events. BTW, I'm a mom of four, married to the best man alive, have a background in broadcast journalism and, many moons ago, worked as a model and actress. I love old barns, old movies, hot chocolate chip cookies and someday I'd like to sail around the world. Guess I'd better learn to sail first. [/ez_three_fourth_last]

Follow Chana Keefer Website | Facebook | Twitter

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CFBA Review: In Golden Splendor by:Michael K. Reynolds

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing In Golden Splendor • B&H Books (July 15, 2013) by Michael Reynolds

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Michael K. Reynolds is the writer and producer of Emmy and Telly Award-winning film campaigns and has more than two decades of experience in fiction, journalism, copywriting, and documentary production. He owns Global Studio, a marketing agency, and is also an active leader in church and business, speaking in both ministry and corporate settings. Michael lives with his wife and three children in Reno, Nevada.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Irish immigrant Seamus Hanley is a lost soul, haunted by his past as a U.S. Army deserter and living alone in the wilderness of the Rocky Mountains in 1849. But after witnessing a deadly stage coach crash, he finds purpose in the scattered wreckage -- a letter with a picture of a beautiful and captivating woman named Ashlyn living in San Francisco at the height of the Gold Rush. Moved by her written plea for help, he abandons all and sets out on an epic journey across the wild and picturesque American frontier. While being pursued by those who want to hang him, Seamus encounters fascinating characters including a young Pauite Indian who makes the ultimate sacrifice in helping Seamus to cross the snowy Yosemite Valley. Battered but changed for the better, Seamus reaches San Francisco on Christmas Eve as the city burns in the tragic fire of 1849. But there is little time for rest, as an even greater, more harrowing adventure involving Ashlyn is about to begin.


If you would like to read the first chapter of In Golden Splendor, go HERE

My Review:
 This is an interesting novel set in Ireland 1843. The story begins with two brothers waiting for their father to return to their cart from the town pub. As the brothers, Seamus and Davin are waiting for their fathers return Seamus spots two young girls, but only one sparks his interest. Just as he and his brother are trying to get to know the girls their father returns in a drunken state. His fathers behavior embarass the two boys and the girls decide to move on.

 I really enjoyed seeing the love between the two brothers. After spending a long day with my own boys it was nice to see these two all be it fictional getting along so well. You could really feel the love between them. So the author did a great job of showing us that.

 Pretty soon we fast forward several years later and Seamus is much older and now a soldier. Considered a defector, he is searching for food, no doubt because he is probably very close to starvation. He plagued with past memories that seem to haunt him. What will become of this young man? Will he ever see Hannah again, this young girl that captured his heart so long ago?

 This novel is full of rich history and character. Even though it is a long read, I enjoyed it immensely.

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from CFBA.

Review: Road Trip To Redemption by:Brad Mathias

About the Book:
Brad Mathias thought everything in his family was fine. A busy, contented dad, he had vaguely noticed that Bethany, his middle child, had become withdrawn and moody, but he assumed it was part of being a "teen" and didn't look any deeper. Until the night God spoke clearly to Brad and his wife: "Ask her to reveal what she has hidden." They did--and learned the secret Bethany had been carrying, one that rocked their family to the core. In a desperate attempt to reach their daughter and to reconnect as a family, Brad and his wife piled everyone into the car and embarked on a wild, crazy, seven-thousand-mile, what-are-we-thinking trip across the country. As they drove, they realized how far apart they'd drifted, found unexpected blessings along the way--and journeyed together from pain and loss to recovery and redemption. In this book, Brad shares stories from the road about God's grace, gives practical tips on what he learned about reconnecting as a family, invites you to consider your own epic journey as a mother or father, and calls you to trust wholeheartedly in the amazing love God has for your kids.
 
About the Author:
Dr. Brad Mathias is president of Bema Media LLC, the parent company of iShine, the world’s largest preteen Christian media group. He also serves as co-pastor of the Four Winds Anglican Mission in Spring Hill, Tennessee. Survivors of an almost-divorce, Brad and his wife, Paige, have been married for over twenty-two years and are the parents of three teenagers.

My Review:
 If you have a relationship close enough to God that He speaks to you every now and then, for some it may be exciting but for others it can be downright terrifying, to say the least. When the author had God speak to him one day and told him to go talk to his daughter Bethany about something she was hiding, things for that family were about to take a major turn. Brad Mathias thought that his family had it all together when one day it was revealed things were definitely not how they seemed. And together with God's ever guiding hand, they were going to have to take the bull by the horns and turn this whole thing around.

 And turn around they did. Soon Brad and his family found themselves not only on a physical cross country journey but on a spiritual one as well. This book is an interesting one but the author and his family felt like their story should be told to help families everywhere that would be possibly going through similar situations. It all boils down to get yourself and your family focused on God. This is exactly what the author did along with his extended family. To rescue all they had ever known to bring them back to a place of peace and togetherness.

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher.

Review:Casa de Naomi by:Paula Rose Michelson

About the Book:
Naomi wants Chaz's love. Chaz loves Naomi but will not forgive his wife lying to him. The attorney wants Naomi's estate. The padre wants the couple to reconcile. Nicco wants to marry Lucinda. Lucinda wants to marry Nicco. Neither will wed until Chaz and Naomi are standing with them when they say their wedding vows. Who will get what they want? Find out when you read the second volume of Paula Rose Michelson's saga, Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing

My Review:
We as women typically struggle with being the submissive wife which is what God wants of us and trying to keep some dignity especially when it comes to our husbands. This book is alot about a struggle like that. This book is full of a strong love and devotion that seem to jump off the page. This is the second book in the The House of Blessing series.

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.

Review:Desired (the untold story of Samson&Delilah) by:Ginger Garrett

About the Book:
Before Samson was an Old Testament legend, he was a prodigal son, an inexperienced suitor, a vengeful husband, and a lost soul driven by his own weakness. This is his story as told by three strong women who loved him—the nagging, manipulative mother who pushed him toward greatness, the hapless Philistine bride whose betrayal propelled him into notoriety, and the emotionally damaged seductress—the famous Delilah—who engineered his downfall and propelled him to his destiny. Desired celebrates the God of Israel's to work powerfully in the midst of hopes, fears, desires, and sorrows.
 
About the Author:
 Ginger Garrett is the author of the Chronicles of the Scribes series (In the Shadow of Lions, In the Arms of Immortals, In the Eyes of Eternity), Wolves Among Us, Chosen, Desired, Dark Hour, and Beauty Secrets of the Bible. Chosen: The Lost Diaries of Queen Esther was recognized as one of the top five novels of 2006 by the ECPA.
A graduate of Southern Methodist University with a degree in Theater, she is passionate about creating art from history. Ginger resides in Georgia with her husband and three children.

My Review:
 I think if you have ever studied the Bible long enough, you would certainly know the story of Samson and Delilah. In Ginger Garrett's book, Desired, the untold story of Samson&Delilah you are sure to get the best fictionally story based on historic fact that is Biblical based. This story is written through the eyes of three different women that were very much a part of Samson's life, his mother, Amara-his wife, and Delilah-the seductress. Written in this way we say how they felt about the man and his mission in life. And how each of them played a very important role in how his life was shaped and lived out.

 Ginger Garrett has put together a rather dark, dreary story about Samson. She is a very well versed author that makes her novels rich with character and history.

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge from the author for my honest review.

Review:Lead Me Home by:Stacy Hawkins Adams

About the Book:
Shiloh Griffin has no identity outside of her roles as pastor's wife and mom. Some days that is enough. But not always. Particularly when she is partnered with the always confident, always gracious Jade Smith on a church ministry project. Rather than shying away from God in her nervousness, Shiloh clings to Him, seeking every day to redeem herself. When an opportunity arises for her to teach music at a local high school, she thinks maybe it's just the thing to give her more significance. Then Shiloh begins mentoring Monica, a fifteen-year-old student. When Monica learns she is pregnant, Shiloh must confront her own darkest secret in the desperate decision facing the teen. If she turns away, this teen's life---and her soul---could be in jeopardy. If she decides to stand up and help, she knows she's the one who risks losing everything.

About the Author:
 Stacy Hawkins Adams is an award-winning women's fiction and nonfiction author, freelance columnist and inspirational speaker. Visit her website, http://www.StacyHawkinsAdams.com for more information on Stacy, and for details about her upcoming events.

My Review:
 Shiloh Griffin for all wants and purposes has stood up and taken on her role as the quintessential pastor's wife and a very connected mother. But she struggles to find herself or even time for herself in the midst of it all.

 She has a secret that she is keeping hidden from her family. She feels like God will never forgive her for this. She also hasn't forgiven herself and fears noone else will either. She goes about her life with a painted on smile that is getting harder and harder to keep up. Pretty soon she is put in different situations where she will have to face this head on.

 I think we have all been there. We think that if we add one more sin to the already mounting ones God is going to say that's it, I'm done. But the truth is He will NEVER turn His back on us, no matter how many sins are in that pile.

 Soon Shiloh will have her faith shaken but prayerfully will come out smelling like a rose.

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Booksneeze.

Review:Redemption by:William E. Jefferson

About the Book:
REDEMPTION is a companion book to The Point: The Redemption of Oban Ironbout. The work is set on the metaphorical Isle of Estillyen, where creative monks stage dramatic readings of biblical stories. In The Point, the readings were presented in synopsis form. Now readers can delve into the twelve Scripture narratives as they were originally given by the monks of Estillyen. Richly inspiring, this unique volume promises to draw readers closer to the theme of redemption–and to the Redeemer himself. The story beckons. Life it gives. Redemption it offers.


About the Author:
Jefferson holds an MTh in Theology and Media from the University of Edinburgh and an MA in Communications from Wheaton Graduate School.

My Review:

Recently, I had the chance to review a different type book then I am use to reviewing, the name of the book is  "The Point: The Redemption of Oban Ironbout". The link to that review is here. The Point was sort of a mystical book that the author used to create a place of heaven here on earth. This book was an interesting one, Redemption is the companion book to The Point. It takes the subject of the previous book and delves more into the subject matter presented.

If interested in purchasing or even learning more about it please visit this link.

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review by the author.

Review:Science For Every Teacher Volume 1 Physics by:John D. Mays

 
About the Book:
Science for Every Teacher is written for anyone who teaches K-8 students. Elementary school teachers teach many different subjects, and often feel competent to teach all of them but one. When teaching science they often wish they had more depth in their own knowledge. They want to have more background than simply the text their students are using! And teacher’s guides rarely provide that kind of information in depth.

About the Author:
John entered the field of education in 1985 and has taught professionally in public, Episcopal, and classical Christian schools. He also taught college level courses for over 6 years. He taught full time at Regents School of Austin from 1999-2012, where he served as Math-Science Department Chair for eight years. His classroom teaching experience encompasses 15 years teaching high school science and math, and over 10 years teaching mathematics and literature part-time at the university level. He is the author of The Student Lab Report Handbook (2009), Teaching Science so that Students Learn Science (2010), Accelerated Studies in Physics and Chemistry (2012), and Favorite Experiments for Physics and Physical Science (2013). John now serves full-time as a writer, publisher, and school consultant.

My Review:
 In all my years of teaching my children at home, I don't ever remember coming across any books to help the teacher learn more about the subject to better enhance the learning that the child can benefit from, until now. John D. Mays is an excellent writer in his field. He is a great teacher and has alot of experience to back him up. In his book, Science For Every Teacher Vol. 1 Physics, he has taken the very difficult task of explaining this very concept to me the mom but also the teacher.

 This book is an excellent resource to have not only to the homeschool parent but to any parent wanting to expand their knowledge on the subject.

Taken from the website:
The first volume in the series covers physics. Chemistry will be the subject of Volume 2, coming in 2014. Volumes 3 and 4 will cover earth science/astronomy, and biology, respectively, and will be published in subsequent years.
Science for Every Teacher is written from a faith-neutral perspective, and is appropriate in any educational context.

**Disclosure** This book was provided to me for free for my honest review from the author.

Review: Bible Savvy Series by: James L. Nicodem

 
About the Book:
Made up of four individual volumes ("Epic, Foundation, Context, "and "Walk"), "Bible Savvy "is a foundational resource for those wanting to better understand the Bible. From the whole storyline of the Bible to personal application and how to live it, this set of four accessible books is an ideal resource for small groups, Sunday school classes, youth groups, and individuals seeking to increase their breadth of knowledge about God's word.
 
About the Author:
 Jim and his wife, Sue, have been married for more than thirty years and have three grown children. Born and raised in the Midwest, Jim did his schooling in Biblical studies (BA/Wheaton College; MDiv, DMin/Trinity Evangelical Divinity School). In keeping with Christ Community Church's mission to make passionate disciples of Jesus Christ, Jim loves to mentor others in prayer and the study of God's Word. With that goal in mind, he has authored Prayer Coach: For All Who Want to Get Off the Bench and Onto the Praying Field (2008) and the four-book Bible Savvy series (2013).

My Review:
 The Bible Savvy collection is an excellent resource to have in your home library. My husband is in seminary and found these to be great additions in helping him with his course work. They are perfect for anyone especially some one new to the Christian walk. The 4 volume set breaks down and explains alot of the Bible for you. Here is a brief summary of what each book includes:

Epic: The Storyline of the Bible unveils the single theme that ties all the various parts of scripture together: redemption.

Foundation: The Trustworthiness of the Bible explains that the Bible is God's book, not merely man made, and why it can be wholly trusted.

Context: How to Understand the Bible shows readers how to read the different parts of the Bible as they were meant to be read and how they fit together.

Walk: How to Apply the Bible helps readers put their greater understanding of the text into practice and how to draw real-life applications from it.

 The author points out the fact that the Bible is not an easily understood book and breaking it down makes it a little easier to understand. He has taken the Bible and sorted through it and pointed out significant facts to helps us better make sense of it all.

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me at no charge from the publisher for my honest review.

Review:Epic Fail by: Gordon Dabbs

 
About the Book:
The Bible records stories of men and women who were both heroes and zeroes. We can learn from both. Welcome to a journey through the wisdom and life lessons offered in the stories of the Bible's greatest failures!

About the Author:
Gordon Dabbs is a native of the Ozarks (Neosho, MO) and a graduate of Oklahoma Christian University. He has been married to Ila since 1993 and they have two really cool kids, Claudia and David. They also have a mean-looking but very sweet German Shepherd named Jane and Boo, the world’s fattest/laziest cat.

My Review:
 Gordon Dabbs has put together an excellent resource for those of us wanting to learn from others past failures. And by doing so we will be able to move forward in our own lives onto bigger and better meaningful lives on fire for God.

 Each chapter is a thorough study done on those people from the Bible that have done disastrous things to themselves and others. And God chose to turn it around like he always does and made something good come from it. God took those things and uses them to teach us how to do better and how to be better ib spite of their poor examples.

 I know that I could definitely benefit from others past mistakes. Whether it was Judas Iscariot and his betrayal or Pharaoah and his hardened heart. We can take their mistakes or "Epic Fails" and make good use of them to deepen our intimacy with the Father.

 Also included are end of the chapter questions to ponder on and think about to further your learning.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from ACU Press/Leafwood Publishers as part of their ACU Press Bookclub Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Review: If You Were Me And Lived In South Korea by:Carole P. Roman

 
About the Book:
Carole P. Roman takes you on a journey this time to Asia, landing in South Korea. Once again, children can learn how life is like for young people on the other side of the globe. From food to famous landmarks, they will learn that's it's easy to find something in common with people in different countries.

 About the Author:
Award winning author and former social studies teacher, Carole P. Roman once again takes young readers on a journey around the world. Author of the highly successful Captain No Beard series, she lives on Long Island with her husband and near her children and grandchildren.

My Review:
 Carol P. Roman has done it again with a great children's book centered around South Korea and its very unique culture. She has taken special care to show us all about life there in her delightful book, If You Were Me And Lived In South Korea.

 Upon reading the book your child will be introduced to many new places and many South Korean words that they may have never heard of. She speaks of different tourist attractions there. The author tells us about different foods enjoyed there. South Korea has many different hobbies and interests there that are similar to some of those in America. Their culture is very rich in time honored traditions as well.

 The author as included a pronunciation page in the back of the book to help your child learn to say the South Korean words more efficiently.

 Carole P. Roman is an outstanding author. We love her books in our home. This one comes from her learning about other cultures series.

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.