Review: The Secret Place of the Most High for Women by:Busola Jegede

 
About the Book:
She was weary and worn out by the vicissitudes of life. Embers of emotions that had flared up can still be seen on her wrinkled face. Her body jerked uncontrollably from the stress of pent-up anger. She wobbled as she took one more step, yet she needed to go on taking those steps in life. How she longed for a shade, the cool breeze, a soft and comfortable place to lay herself down. Here comes another woman with bright smiles, two children trailing her steps. She is taking them on that journey of empowerment for life. Yes, she is about to drop them off in school and she has a full day of activities planned out; a meeting with other young women in church and dinner with her husband. 

Yet in the midst of these blur of niceties, she longed for that place of refuge where her spirit could connect with her Maker, she longed for that place of refuge, for the cool breeze, a soft and comfortable place to lay herself down. Yet another woman just graduated. Life looked like a shining tarred road waiting for the wheels of a sports car that would roll on it and drive to a far away place where purpose was waiting, where destiny would be birthed. She longed to know what life held for her. At that instant she longed for that place of refuge, for the cool breeze, a soft and comfortable place to lay herself down. Are you a woman of purpose? Then, you need to abide in the Secret Place of the Most High.

About the Author:
Busola Jegede is an Intercessor with an Apostolic mandate to raise women in the nations of the world. She is passionate about discipling women in prayer and skillful intercession for the family and the nations. Busola is an ordained Apostle with strong Prophetic unction, she is a mentor to many and runs a prison ministry where she rehabilitates ex-female inmates. She empowers women through the Destiny Business Institute which is geared towards imparting skills and information through trainings, seminars, conferences, business summits and fairs. Busola lives in Lagos, Nigeria with her husband Kayode and their three children.

My Review:
 Are you in search of the perfect guide to help you along life's way, to find that inner peace with God that you have longed for? If so than this is the best devotional that I have seen that focuses on that interpersonal walk with God that most of us eagerly desire. I mean who wouldn't want to walk closer to Him?  The author begins the book with a more thorough understanding of what it means to dwell in and want to dwell in the secret place of the Most High. She has went on to provide a Bible study as well as Prayer Plans to go along with each weeks lesson. Each weeks lesson is provided to you with the author's personal commentary to further explain the verses regarding the lessons.

 Equipping you with enough lessons and Bible study to last one year and hoping to fulfill that gap between you and God the author has done quite well. But even though you are shown how to further your knowledge in this area, this is not enough. She has also created a 21 day fasting&prayer program to help you even further on your path to intimacy with the Lord.

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

Review: How To Be Rich Book&DVD Study by:Andy Stanley

About the Book:
 How to Be Rich: A DVD Study is a small group Bible study from pastor Andy Stanley exploring 1 Timothy 6:18. Andy biblically redefines what wealth is, how to use it, and helps you and your group practice being rich so you will be good at it if you should ever be so fortunate. The early Christians took this command seriously. Generosity was the hallmark of the early church. They did for those who could not do or would not do anything in return. That was new. That got people's attention. Is that how people in our communities would describe us? 

 This small group study is a tool that will force conversation and reflection around the topic of what to do with what we have. Jesus could not have been any clearer. It's not what you have that matters. It's what you do with what you have that will count for you or against you in the kingdom of heaven. Andy will encourage you and your group to look at richness differently, which might just lead our families, communities, and world to looking at Christians differently.

About The Author:
Andy Stanley is the founder of North Point Ministries, Inc. (NPM). Each Sunday, more than 33,000 people attend one of NPM's seven Atlanta-area churches. In addition, NPM has planted over 25 churches outside the metro Atlanta area with a combined weekly attendance of more than 15,000. Over one million of Andy's messages are accessed from our North Point websites monthly, including both leadership and sermon content. To learn more and to access our free online resources, visit us at www.northpointministries.org.

My Review:
 As Americans especially, we are constantly bombarded for the need of "more"--wanting more, needing more. But as Andy Stanley is pointing out, we may already be rich and not realize it. Jesus throughout the New Testament pointed out that it wasn't about having more as much as it was about what we do with it. Early Christians took 1 Timothy 6:18 to a whole other level that we have clearly overlooked in our fast paced world.

 I know for myself and my family times are really hard right now. And then I reason with myself and say if I just had a little more money, I wouldn't be so worried about paying bills and buying food. But as the author points out even when we get to a point to where we have enough, we stop and quit doing things for God. After all we have everything now, what do we need Him for at this moment. I know for my husband and I, we pray that we remain humble. And yes we realize that asking God for that could prove to be a difficult time of growth for us, but I would rather remain humble that turn into someone that loses touch with the hardships are me that need to be addressed.

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

Review: Summer Of Joy by:Ann H. Gabhart

 
About the Book:
For Jocie Brooke, the summer of 1964 certainly was eventful, but it's nothing compared to what's coming to Hollyhill, Kentucky, and the Brooke family next. The past is coming to call, threatening to destroy the relationships that everyone thought were so strong. Two people--one thought to be gone for good and the other no one's ever heard of--are making their way to the small town. And it promises trouble for everyone. 

This complex and beautifully written story is the perfect conclusion to The Heart of Hollyhill series. With true-to-life family drama, refreshing humor, and characters readers have come to love like dear friends, "Summer of Joy" will delight Gabhart's fans.

About the Author:
 Ann H. Gabhart is the bestselling author of several Shaker novels--The Outsider, The Believer, The Seeker, The Blessed, and The Gifted--as well as several other historical novels, including Scent of Lilacs, Orchard of Hope, Angel Sister, Small Town Girl, and Words Spoken True. She lives with her husband a mile from where she was born in rural Kentucky. Find out more at www.annhgabhart.com.

My Review:
The small town of Hollyhill, Kentucky, has a very simple traditional life. Everyone knows whats going on at all times, even if it's private business. Thoughts and Ideas for their yearly Christmas Play starts like clock work during the summer months. When it seems the winds of change start to blow, the folks of Hollyhill wont hear of it. Jocie plans to change that, by changing up the Christmas play a bit.

 Though it's months away, Jocie starts telling them of her many ideas. And of course like always,they turn them down for the old traditions. Jocie along with her family and friends set out to prove them all wrong, to show what can be done if you change it up a bit. She takes everyone on an amazing summer adventure, one that will change everything.

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

The Sparkle Egg Giveaway Hosted by Pea of Sweetness

The Sparkle Egg Giveaway Hosted by Pea of Sweetness

Sponsored by Ideals Books

Co-Hosted by Deals of Sweetness

 Easter is coming, and Sam loves Easter! But this year, he is upset about a lie he told his parents. Even though he apologized and they forgave him, Sam can't shake the feeling that he is a bad kid for what he did. Meanwhile, his parents help him make a special Easter craft called a Sparkle Egg. His mom tells him to write anything he feels sorry about or ashamed of on a piece of paper and put it inside his Sparkle Egg. On Easter morning, when he opens his Sparkle Egg expecting a surprise, Sam finds that it is empty! His parents explain that because Jesus died and rose again, we are forgiven. Like the tomb that first Easter Day, Sam’s egg is empty—and Sam’s wrongdoing is completely forgiven.

 Once he accepts this forgiveness fully, Sam realizes a truth: we can sparkle and shine with God’s light when we let God’s gift of grace into our hearts. This touching story will strike a deep chord with readers of all ages, and the Sparkle Egg tradition will help readers and their families grasp the totality of God’s perfect grace. Emilee at Pea of Sweetness loves resources that help children focus on the true reason we celebrate Easter. See what her family thought in their review of The Sparkle Egg.

 One winner will receive The Sparkle Egg book (ARV $16.99). This giveaway begins on 3/29 at 7pm and ends on 4/12 at 11:00pm (times are Central) and is open to US and Canada (void Quebec) ages 18+. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification. Please refer to the full terms and conditions in the Giveaway Tools. All entries are optional, but completing more entries increases your chances of winning!

Entry-Form

  Disclosure: Emilee from Pea of Sweetness and Deals of Sweetness received free product in exchange for an honest review. Participating bloggers are not responsible for prize fulfillment.

Litfuse Review: Dancing With Fireflies by:Denise Hunter

About the Book:
Jade returns home to Chapel Springs after years of protecting her fragile heart. Then along comes Daniel, making her long to dance again.

Creative and complicated, Jade McKinley felt like a weed in a rose garden growing up in Chapel Springs. When she left, she thought she'd never look back. But now, pregnant, alone, and broke, she has no other choice but to return.

The mayor of Chapel Springs, Daniel Dawson, has been an honorary member of the McKinley family for years. While his own home life was almost non-existent, Daniel fit right into the boisterous McKinley family. He's loved Jade for years, but she always saw him as a big brother. Now that she's back, his feelings are stronger than ever.

As Jade attempts to settle in, nothing feels right. God seems far away, she's hiding secrets from her family, and she's strangely attracted to the man who's always called her "squirt." Finding her way home may prove more difficult than she imagined.

About the Author:
Denise Hunter is the bestselling author of The Convenient Groom and The Trouble with Cowboys. She has won The Holt Medallion Award, The Reader's Choice Award, The Foreword Book of the Year Award, and is a RITA finalist.

My Review:
 Denise Hunter has once again released a perfect performance in the writing of Dancing With Fireflies. As usual her characters and story line have won out and you will be captivated by Jade's story. The beginning of the book finds us with Jade trying once again at a date that she relented to. A date with Nick is not really she feels she is even remotely ready for but she goes ahead, agreeing to one date. So after the disappointment & sheer sadness, Jade suffers in the previous book she returns home only to what seems like a do-over, again.

 Pregnant and alone Jade returns but not without keeping secrets. And if she ever felt further away from God, it is now. She hides the pregnancy as long as she can. During her ordeal she just kept wondering where God was. Such a sad and gripping novel, but definitely a page turner!

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

Review: A Stillness of Chimes by:Meg Moseley

 
About the Book:
When Laura Gantt returns to Georgia to handle her late mother's estate, she hears a startling rumor---that her father staged his drowning years ago and has recently been spotted roaming the mountains.

With the help of her former high school sweetheart, Laura searches for the truth. But will what they find destroy their rekindled feelings?

About the Author:
Meg Moseley is a Californian transplanted to the South. For four years, she wrote human interest columns for a suburban section of the Atlanta Journal Constitution, and she home-schooled for over twenty years. Mom to three grown children, she enjoys books, motorcycle rides with her husband, and gardening.

My Review:
 A Stillness of Chimes, is probably a book that best describes how I would of felt directly after my own mother had passed away. I went through such a sad depression after the loss of my mother. I missed her so terribly I begged God to bring her back and turned very angry towards Him when He didn't. When you lose someone so close to you it can have devastating effects if you let it. But I do believe even after saying all of that, if I would of been in the place of the main character, Laura Gantt and learned that after 12 years my father was very much alive---I would be livid!

 Laura soon starts to investigate the happenings to uncover the truth about her father. She chooses to this with her former high school sweetheart and before long it rekindles things between them. What will either of these newly upturned situations bring to her life. Visit with Laura while she revisits the past in A Stillness of Chimes.

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the Blogging for Books Book Review Program.

Review: What Follows After by:Dan Walsh

About the Book:
In October 1962, Colt Harrison and his little brother, Timmy, hatched a plan. They would run away from their Florida home, head for their aunt's house in Savannah, Georgia, and refuse to come home until their parents got back together. But things go terribly, terribly wrong. Colt's mother and father must come to grips with years of neglect and mistrust in order to recover their beloved sons, their love for one another, and their broken marriage.
In this emotional story, Dan Walsh takes readers on a journey to rediscover the things that matter most in life--love, truth, and family.

About the Author:
Dan Walsh is the bestselling author of several books, including The Unfinished Gift, The Discovery, and The Reunion, as well as The Dance and The Promise with Gary Smalley. He has won three Carol awards, and three of his novels were finalists for RT Book Reviews Inspirational Book of the Year (2011-2013). Dan lives with his wife in the Daytona Beach area, where he's busy researching and writing his next novel. Visit www.danwalshbooks.com for more.

My Review:
 What Follows After, is a story set in the 1960's about two little boys dead set on getting their family back together. But not long after making that drastic decision for all four of them, things go horribly wrong for Colt and Timmy. Thinking that the path they have chosen will put their parents back on a path of forgiveness&restoration, something happens along the way that will question all of that.

 In this bittersweet story of love and family, we will learn just as that family did that day what Genesis chapter 50 truly means--what man meant for evil, God meant for good. I really enjoyed this book, the time period it was set in fit it perfectly. Getting towards the end of the book and when the unthinkable is reversed was an answer to pray even for me. Reading this fictional tale seemed very real. I loved this very raw, emotional story! 

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

Review: The Ancient Secret of the Leprechauns by:Mahamad Ali ElFakir

 
About the Book:
Long ago, during the time of the dinosaurs, three leprechauns—D’Arcy, Lorcan, and Scully—built a hidden home on the top of a mountain inside of a gigantic boulder. For millions of years, the three friends have risen each day to greet the sun and set sail to their secret island at the end of the rainbow, where they play all day in a sparkling pool of gold. 
But when the leprechauns forget to secure their island before leaving one evening, they are in for a terrible surprise the next day—the gold is gone! D’Arcy, Lorcan, and Scully will have to face rough seas, sharks, a gigantic sea monster, a massive octopus, and the dreaded Captain Sea Gore and his pirate crew in their quest to recover the treasure. It’s up to Squawky the rainbow bird to teach the friends how to work together—and that through teamwork and perseverance, they can overcome any obstacles that come their way.

About the Author:
Mahamad Ali ElFakir was born in 1975 in Detroit, Michigan. He is an entrepreneur who works hard for his family. He is blessed with his wonderful wife and amazing children. BLUEBERRY BUBBLE GUM is his first book, it was inspired by his children, he says "a child's imagination can inspire anyone."

My Review:
 True friendship is a wonderful blessing, that if you ever have just one true friend you are far richer and wealthier than even the financially secure individual.  In The Ancient Secret of the Leprechauns, the author takes us on an exciting adventures of three friends that have to work together in spite of their conflict to recover their not so hidden treasure. They have to endure so much, and because of this their friendship with each other is strengthened so much so, that they can endure anything.

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

Review:Stinky Fumes: King of the Wild, Vol. 1 by:Mahamad Ali ElFakir

 
About the Book:
IT'S PARTY TIME-COME JOIN THE WILD ADVENTURE! Pepper the skunk is looking forward to the annual meet and greet party, where every skunk in the forest gathers to watch the new skunks spray for the first time. Pepper is ready to show off his first spray in front of everyone-but things don't exactly go as planned! Pepper is embarrassed and upset to discover that he is different from all the other skunks. He worries that this means he is not a true skunk, but when his friends and family are faced with the threat of coyotes, Pepper realizes that being different can actually be a great thing. Join Pepper in his heroic adventure to try to save the skunks of the forest from coyotes. Will his differences help him or cause him to lose the battle? Find out in Stinky Fumes-a fun-loving and exciting adventure that reminds us how unique and wonderful we all are.

About the Author:
Mahamad Ali ElFakir was born in 1975 in Detroit, Michigan. He is an entrepreneur who works hard for his family. He is blessed with his wonderful wife and amazing children. BLUEBERRY BUBBLE GUM is his first book, it was inspired by his children, he says "a child's imagination can inspire anyone."

My Review:
 All of us wanted to be "liked" and accepted, but many times we are rejected by our peers and so called friends. That is why I believe we are given families so that we have some people that are for us and are in our corner. In life we need some amount of adoration, I believe. In Stinky Fumes:King of the Wild, Vol. 1, Pepper the skunk is made painfully aware of the fact that he is different and all the other skunks make him feel very bad about himself.

 But his brother Tiger and Hopper try to get him to understand that we all have a purpose and the other skunks can NEVER change that in him. As Pepper starts to see things their way he heads back to the meet & greet and soon everyone sees the need that only "Stinky" can provide.

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

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

About the Book:
Let's travel to India! Land of bright colors and delicious spices, If You Were Me and Lived in...India, takes young readers on a road trip to learn about this interesting place. Children will learn how to say mommy and daddy, what type of currency is used, games that youngsters play and a lot of interesting facts about the beautiful land of India. 
If You Were Me and Lived in...India adds this ethnically diverse country to the growing, award winning series that is out to cover the entire globe, teaching children about culture and customs all over the world. The ForeWord Review, Clarion Review gave "If You Were Me and Lived in...Kenya" a coveted five star ranking. The first book in the series, If You Were Me and Lived in...Mexico" received the Pinnacle Award for Best in Children's Nonfiction 2012.

About the Author:
Award winning author Carole P. Roman is delighted to add India to her growing series. She is currently completing If You Were Me and Lived in...Portugal, Greece, and Russia; which she researched and wrote with her five year old grandson, Alexander. Her first book Captain No Beard An Imaginary Tale of a Pirate's Life was named to Kirkus Best 2012, received the Star of Remarkable Merit, the Pinnacle Award for 2012, and Just recently The Erik Metzroth Award for Best Children's book 2013.

My Review:
 An imaginary field trip or guided tour to the country of India, is what you will receive if you read the latest book in the If You Were Me And Lived In series. The books in the series have several interesting facts about the country that you are to learn about. Facts that otherwise you would of never realized such as the common names of children there are Rakesh-if you are a boy, and Rhea-if you are a girl. Mothers and Fathers there are referred to as Maaji and Pitaji, respectively.

 The author describes several foods that are enjoyed there as well as sports enjoyed and many landmarks that are tourist attractions. Life in India seems like tons of fun for adults as well as young children. I know I would love to visit there some day but until then we could pick up a book from this series and dream!

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

Review: The Treasure of Snake Island by:Carole P. Roman

 
About the Book:
After a fierce battle with a storm, the crew goes in search of treasure. Alexander, that is, Captain No Beard uses a map to locate it on the ominous sounding Snake Island. Bravely they dig until they find the best treasure ever!

About the Author:
Carole P. Roman has been entertaining both children and parents with her successful Captain No Beard series. Each book contains a valuable lesson, that adds to hours of discussion afterward. She is also the author of the cultural series "If You Were Me and Lived in...", which has been embraced by both parents and teachers, as well as her target audience- children ages 3-8. Roman lives on Long Island with her husband and near her children and grandchildren who continue to be a helpful test audience.

My Review:
 Join Captain No Beard and his crew on another fascinating adventure on the high seas fighting fear and loss to win against anyone that is out to harm them. In The Treasure of Snake Island, the crew learns about books and facing their fears one by one. Soon there was a storm brewing and Polly the Parrot told them all about how she learns about tons of different things. She learns them by reading books.

 Soon the crew is off to search for treasure on Snake Island and what they find when they arrive is a sheer delight to them. My boys love reading Carole Roman's, the Captain No Beard series! There is a lot of fun and excitement in each addition to the series.

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

Review: 101 Color&Sing Bible Stories by:Stephen Elkins

 
About the Book:
Preschoolers will get excited about this introductory Bible storybook (with 2 CD-ROMs) that encourages them to color and sing--two favorite pastimes of little children--as part of the Bible story-telling experience. Each of the 101 Bible stories includes a coloring page to print and color. The coloring sheets include a key Bible verse that can be colored along with the picture--a great way to help kids memorize Bible verses! In addition to coloring pages, the CDs include 101 memorable Scripture songs that relate to the stories. The Bible song track number is referenced on the story page for easy access.


My Review:
 This book is an excellent teaching tool for preschoolers. It is filled with 101 Bible stories that will teach those little, impressionable minds all about God and His word. Each scripture is listed along with a short summary on each lesson. There is also a song listed, a fun fact related to the story lesson, and a coloring page for those little minds to participate in. The best thing about this book is that along with it, you receive to CDs, one is a songs disc and the other is a disc with coloring pages on it. So you can use this right along with the lessons.

 It is a perfect book for teaching preschoolers at home just for random study, or for homeschoolers, or for a Sunday school class. I know I'm always looking for teaching tools like this one to help back up what my children learn at church. The book also tells you which song and which coloring page goes along with each lesson, so you won't spend endless hours trying to find them. There is no other way to say it but this one is a winner!

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

Review:101 Bible Stories From Creation to Revelation by: Dan Andreasen

About the Book:
101 Bible Stories from Creation to Revelation brings together 101 of the most well-known and beloved Bible stories. Written for young independent readers and with colorful artwork, this storybook Bible is sure to become a favorite. Each story is one page in length and features a picture depicting the main character or event of the story. Both story and artwork can also provide perfect springboards for further family or child and parent discussion of the rest of the story and its impact on our faith.

About the Author:
Dan Andreasen lives in Medina, Ohio, with his wife and three children. Dan began his career as a professional sculptor for American Greetings Corp. Now a children's book illustrator and graphic designer, he has illustrated more than thirty picture books.

My Review:
 An awesome book filled to the brim with 101 Bible stories from the Old as well as the New Testament specially designed for the independent readers in your home. Each story is long enough to get the point across but short enough to hold those children's attention that just can't sit still for very long. Each story summary is listed and has the actual scripture listed as well to back up the story.

 The book is Biblically sound and has excellent colored illustrations to go along with each story. Your children will enjoy this book just as much as my boys did. They love the length of each story and each story has brought about long, in depth discussions from them, so it is also an A+ in my book too!

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

DANCING WITH FIREFLIES || RSVP for April 10th Facebook Party and enter to win a Kindle HDX from @DeniseAHunter!

Don't miss Denise Hunter's latest Chapel Springs Romance, Dancing with Fireflies. Reviewers have already labeled Dancing with Fireflies "swoon-worthy" and "the perfect love story." 

Join Denise in celebrating the release of her new book by entering her Kindle HDX giveaway and RSVPing for her April 10th Facebook party.

One winner will receive:

• A brand new Kindle Fire HDX
• Dancing with Fireflies and Barefoot Summer by Denise Hunter

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 10th. Winner will be announced at the Dancing with Fireflies Facebook Party on April 10th. Connect with Denise for an evening of prizes, book chat, and an exclusive look at the next book in the series.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today by clicking JOIN on the event page. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 10th!

ARK Therapeutic Giveaway Hosted by Pea of Sweetness

ARK Therapeutic Giveaway Hosted by Pea of Sweetness

Sponsored by ARK Therapeutic Services, Inc.

Co-Hosted by Deals of Sweetness

 ARK Therapeutic is your source for safe, innovative, and durable tools for speech therapy and beyond. They offer a unique line of oral motor tools, feeding and drinking aids, sensory chews, writing tools, and much more, all made right here in the USA. Emilee at Pea of Sweetness has three special needs children with a variety of sensory needs and speech needs and had been looking for versatile therapy tools. She appreciates that ARK Therapeutic not only offers the tools they need but also a helpful blog, tips, and are readily available for support as well! They had a chance to review a variety of therapy tools including the extremely versatile Z-Vibe that one reader will have a chance to win! Head over to Pea of Sweetness to see how they used ARK Therapeutic therapy tools.

The Z-Vibe® is a vibratory oral motor tool that can help build oral tone and improve a variety of speech, feeding, and sensory skills. Use it to provide a varied sensory experience and/or to provide targeted tactile cues within the oral cavity. Its gentle vibration provides a new level of sensory stimulation to increase oral focus and draw more attention to the lips, tongue, cheeks, and jaw. Vibration can also be very calming, soothing, and organizing. If you would like the chance to win a Z-Vibe, enter using the Giveaway Tools form below! This giveaway will run from 3/25 at 7pm - 4/8 at 11pm Central Time and is open to US residents ages 18+. All entries are optional, but completing more entries increases your chances of winning! Please refer to the full Terms and Conditions in the Giveaway Tools.

Entry-Form

  Disclosure: Emilee from Pea of Sweetness and Deals of Sweetness received free product in exchange for an honest review. Participating bloggers are not responsible for prize fulfillment.

CrossReads Book Blast: The Swaddling Clothes, Amber Schamel

                            CrossReads Book Blast: The Swaddling Clothes, Amber Schamel

The Swaddling Clothes By Amber Schamel

About the Book

Through the ages, many stories have been told about Mary, Joseph and the birth of the Messiah. Stories of shepherds and sheep, kings, angels, and stables. But there is one story that has never been told. One story that has remained hidden in the fabric of time. The story of The Swaddling Clothes. Mentioned not once, but several times in the Scriptural text, what is the significance of these special cloths? And how did they make their way into a stable in Bethlehem? From the author that brought you the Days of Messiah series comes a whole new adventure critics are calling "intriguing...thought provoking... a fresh twist on an age old story." "I get tired of Bible stories sometimes, but The Swaddling Clothes brings the story to life." "Heartwarming... truly inspired. A story you will want to read again and again. Rich details and a suspenseful plot will keep you reading while giving you a glimpse of God's wonderful power and His amazing love."

LINK to KINDLE | LINK to PAPERBACK

Amber Schamel is a multi-published author of Christian Historical Fiction. Her passion for history and culture has led her to travel extensively throughout the United States, Europe, and the Holy Land. Amber is actively involved in her church and enjoys volunteer work and music ministry. Raised in a family of twelve children and homeschooled throughout her education, she currently resides in the beautiful state of Colorado where she also serves as bookkeeper and marketing director for their family businesses. Find Amber on her blog, or on all the main social media sites.

Follow Amber Schamel Website | Facebook | Twitter

Enter to Win a $50 Amazon Gift Card!

Enter below to enter a $50 Amazon gift card, sponsored by author Amber Schamel! a Rafflecopter giveaway This book blast is hosted by Crossreads. We would like to send out a special THANK YOU to all of the CrossReads book blast bloggers!

Review: Murder Simply Brewed by:Vannetta Chapman

 
About the Book:
Spring has arrived in Middlebury, Indiana, and Amber Wright can see profits in sight for her collection of Amish artisan shops—until she receives a call that Ethan Gray is dead. Hurrying over to A Simple Blend, she finds a single hole in the front window and Mr. Gray dead from an apparent heart attack. All the money is still in his register. Hannah Troyer takes over the shop’s duties, and she and Amber become fast friends as well as amateur sleuths. The police believe Gray’s death to be a by-product of vandalism, but Amber and Hannah aren’t so easily convinced.
Old Testament clues that don’t add up, a neighbor who is pulled into the midst of the investigation, a town with secrets to hide, and blossoming romance—all will combine to push Amber and Hannah into unfamiliar roles in order to solve a mystery and bring peace to the Amish community.

About the Author:
Vannetta Chapman is author of the best-selling novel A Simple Amish Christmas. She has published over one hundred articles in Christian family magazines, receiving over two dozen awards from Romance Writers of America chapter groups. In 2012 she was awarded a Carol Award for Falling to Pieces. She discovered her love for the Amish while researching her grandfather's birthplace of Albion, Pennsylvania. Visit Vannetta's website: www.vannettachapman.com.

My Review:
 Today, holds only the promise that a new day in April brings, or at least that is what is promised to Hannah Troyer as she arrived for work that fine morning. She had all of her job duties to preform before her passel of customers would arrive. But as she went about her morning preparing for the day something just didn't sit right with her, something was indeed amiss.  She soon realized that she didn't sense that familiar smell of coffee brewing from Ethan Gray's coffee shop, A Simple Blend.

 Amber Wright felt a wave of good fortune as well on that bright, cheery April morn. She felt that all was going well in her life---well, that is until she got that early morning phone call that seem to throw everything into hyper drive. Her once calm existence seems to have met a bump in the road. Someone is dead and it seems that things aren't quite lining up as they should, to point to the fact that the police believe it is natural causes. Hannah and Amber join forces to get down to the bottom of this mystery before its too late.

 I really enjoyed this Amish mystery. I normally don't like mysteries, but Vannetta has a way to entice you and to bring you into the story in a way that you never realize. You are instantly drawn in and are quickly turning the next page to find out what happens next. And then it dawns on you that you have read half the book, and you don't even like mysteries. She makes the characters seem real and you are transported into their world with a turn of the page. This book is a great Amish mystery, that you will immediately enjoy!

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

Review: Awakening:The Ydron Saga by:Raymond Bolton

 
About the Book:
 How does a world equipped with bows, arrows and catapults, where steam power is just beginning to replace horses and sailing ships, avert a conquest from beyond the stars?

Prince Regilius has been engineered to combat the Dalthin, a predatory alien species that enslaves worlds telepathically, and to do so he must unite his people. But when his mother murders his father, the land descends into chaos and his task may prove impossible. Faced with slaying the one who gave him life in order to protect his world, he seeks a better way. Set in a vast and varied land where telepaths and those with unusual mental abilities tip the course of events, Awakening goes to the heart of family, friendship and betrayal.

My Review:
 Regilius awakens in a small hospital room complete with a bed. The last thing he remembers is a fun game of platter, he had played the day before. Other than that he remembers nothing. He soon starts to realize that something dark and mysterious was at work, but what?

 Doing as the doctor insisted would be only to easy for him to do, but Reg climbs out of the bed and starts exploring, trying to find the explanation to his memory loss. As he gets closer to the explanation, he finds himself in odd situations. But unknown by him, he is in more danger than he really knows. Reg must talk with Ai'Lorc before it all comes crumbling down.

 Ai'Lorc knows nothing of what happened to Reg, but he is willing to help in whatever way possible. Ai'Lorc didn't expected trouble to be following Reg. As he and Reg start finding the truth, Ai'Lorc comes up missing. Gone without a trace, Reg must depend on himself to find the truth and find Ai'Lorc, without getting hurt. This is going to be a hard journey but Reg knows he will have to fight his way to the end.

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

Review: Behold A Lone Horseman by:Jeannie Hudson

 
About the Book:
Behold A Lone Horseman is the enthralling story of a tender and passionate love between a liberated young heroine and a fearless man, both caught up in the pursuit of wealth, power and artistic achievement in 1876 Colorado Territory.
 Aiden Endicott, a dashing Englishman already possesses wealth and influence from his gold mines in Colorado and Dakota Territories but it is his gentle, caring insight and worldly perception that captures Regan's heart. Yet, from the onset, their love is threatened by insurmountable obstacles from the past. Since she was a child, Regan was charmed by her aunt, Lareina Charles' success as a journalist in the male-dominated West and has aspired to her own career in that untamed culture.

About the Author:
Jeannie Hudson grew up on a ranch in Wyoming where her rapport with animals was nourished in a country environment. After college, she became a full-time author and sold four suspense novels.

My Review:
 We are instantly transported to a world full of the pursuit of wealth, the promise of a new life, and pure bonified romance in Jeannie Hudson's latest, Behold A Lone Horseman--throw in a little dust and we are in the Colorado Territory all over again.

 Regan Townsend, decides to take her career on the road into unsettled territory. A place behind the camera is usually a place for men only, but she intends on proving to herself and everyone else that she will conquer this feat for all women. But falling in love wasn't something she factored in to the whole equation.

 Love out west proved to be adventurous but she and Aiden find out just how much this adventure will cost them. I enjoyed the book because there was an adventure on every page. The story has well developed characters that jump off the pages. A really great piece of historical fiction!

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

CFBA Review: Maybelle In Stitches by:Joyce Magnin

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Maybelle In Stitches Abingdon Press (March 18, 2014) by Joyce Magnin

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A word from the Author:

I am the author of seven novels. Five adult novels and two middle grade readers. I never wanted to do anything else but write and every day I wake up astonished that I get to do what I always dreamed about. My days are filled with words and images along with the usual family stuff. I have three children, Rebekah who is married to Joshua. They have three of the most adorable boys on the planet, Lemuel, Cedar and Soren. My daughter Emily Kate is a lovely young woman anthropologist and my son Adam is fourteen and a student--he's a genius who loves frogs and lizards and fish and plants. He amazes me.

I have never eaten a scallop. I love cream soda. Drink way too much coffee. I do not like elevators but I do enjoy needle arts and of course books. I prefer jazz over country (no offense), milk chocolate over dark, but not roller coasters although my life has often resembled a roller coaster ride.

One of my life's desires is to meet Amy Grant so I can tell her she saved my life.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Maybelle can’t sew. But when she finds an unfinished quilt in the attic of her mother’s house, she gets the crazy idea to complete it. At first, it’s just a way to fill the lonely nights while her husband, staff sergeant Holden Kanzinzki, is away fighting in World War II.

Yet when Maybelle discovers that the quilt is made from scraps of material that can be traced back through her family heritage, the project is suddenly much more important. Then word comes that Holden is missing in action, and with little else to do, Maybelle clings to the quilt as much as to the hope that her husband is still alive. As neighborhood friends gather around Maybelle to help her through the unknown days and nights ahead, it is the quilt that becomes a symbol of her unflagging belief that Holden will return—to her, to their home, and to their quilt-covered bed.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Maybelle In Stitches, go HERE.

Litfuse Review: A Sky Without Stars by:Linda S. Clare

About the Book:
 Frankie Chasing Bear is caught between cultures. She wants to raise her son Harold to revere his Lakota heritage, but she also thinks he will need to learn the white man’s ways to succeed. After the untimely death of her husband, Frankie joins the U.S. Government’s Relocation Program and moves to Arizona. There she begins sewing a Lakota Star pattern quilt for Harold with tribal wisdom sung, sewn, and prayed into it. A bed without a quilt is like a sky without stars, but neither the quilt—nor her new life—comes easily to Frankie.

 Nick Vandergriff, for instance, is the last man Frankie wants to trust. He’s half-Lakota but Christian, and Frankie can see no good coming from that faith after her own parents were forced to convert at an Indian school. Can Nick convince Frankie that white men and Christians aren’t all bad? And will Frankie learn that love is the most important ingredient—for her son’s quilt and life itself?

About the Author:
 Linda S. Clare is an award-winning author and coauthor of several books and has also published many essays, stories, and poems in publications, including The Christian Reader, The Denver Post, and The Philadelphia Inquirer. Her most recent book is A Sky without Stars, the newest release in Abingdon’s Quilts of Love line. Born in Arizona, Linda and her husband now make their home in Eugene, Oregon, where Linda has taught college-level creative writing classes, and writes, edits, and mentors other writers. She also is a frequent writing conference presenter, a church retreat leader, and mom to four grown children and five wayward cats.

My Review:
 A book based on family but also based on hate. The characters in the book find themselves stuck between two worlds. Two worlds;  one being the white mans world and the other being the world of the Lakota Indian tribe. Frankie's grandmother passed on the art and family tradition of quilting and made her promise should would carry it on and pass it down to the next generation. Frankie meant well when she agreed to the promise but her son is not really all that interested in quilt making and frankly, he doesn't understand why you would need a quilt when they live in Arizona.

 Frankie and Harold are trying to rebuild their lives in an alternate location when she starts quilting to make her feel better. Life in the 1950's shouldn't be this hard for Native Americans, should it? But it is a hard life, they are definitely racial intentions and slurs directed their way but with God's help, they plan to succeed.

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

Canyon Bakehouse Giveaway Hosted by Pea of Sweetness

Canyon Bakehouse Giveaway Hosted by Pea of Sweetness

Sponsored by Canyon Bakehouse

Co-Hosted by Savory Savings and Deals of Sweetness

 Canyon Bakehouse offer a collection of gluten-free breads, buns, and muffins that are made along the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains in their dedicated gluten-free bakehouse. Their unhurried Artisan processes and carefully chosen ingredients give each of their products the taste and texture that you and your family will love! Canyon Bakehouse Gluten-Free breads have been specifically created to bring back the joy of real bread to those following a gluten-free diet. Canyon is passionately determined to produce delicious fresh breads that taste great and are healthy for you, because making healthy choices shouldn’t mean compromising on the quality of the foods we love!

 Emilee from Pea of Sweetness has been working toward a gluten-free lifestyle to improve their health, but has found some of the transition to be challenging - particularly breads. See what their family thought in her Canyon Bakehouse Review. Would you like to try Canyon Bakehouse breads? Two winners will each receive four products: 7-Grain, Cinnamon Raisin, Rosemary & Thyme Focaccia, and Hamburger Buns. This giveaway will run from 3/21 at 7pm - 4/4 at 11pm Central Time and is open to US residents ages 18+. All entries are optional, but completing more may increase your chances of winning! Please refer to the full terms and conditions in the Giveaway Tools.

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  Disclosure: Emilee from Pea of Sweetness and Deals of Sweetness received free product in exchange for an honest review. Participating bloggers are not responsible for prize fulfillment.

CFBA Review: Tide And Tempest by:Elizabeth Ludwig

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Tide and Tempest Bethany House Publishers (March 4, 2014) by Elizabeth Ludwig

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Elizabeth Ludwig is an award-winning author whose work has been featured on Novel Rocket, the Christian Authors Network, and The Christian Pulse. Her first novel, Where the Truth Lies (co-authored with Janelle Mowery), earned her the 2008 IWA Writer of the Year Award. This book was followed in 2009 by "I'll be Home for Christmas", part of the Christmas anthology collection, Christmas Homecoming.

In 2011, her second mystery, Died in the Wool (co-authored with Janelle Mowery) was nominated for a Carol Award. In 2012, the popular EDGE OF FREEDOM series released from Bethany House Publishers. Books one and two, No Safe Harbor and Dark Road Home, respectively, earned 4 Stars from the RT Book Reviews. Book three, Tide and Tempest, received top honors with 4 1/2 Stars.

Elizabeth is an accomplished speaker and teacher, often attending conferences and seminars where she lectures on editing for fiction writers, crafting effective novel proposals, and conducting successful editor/agent interviews. Along with her husband and children, she makes her home in the great state of Texas.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Two years ago, her fiance perished during their voyage to America.

Now she discovers it may have been murder...

Dreaming of a better life, Tillie McGrath leaves Ireland behind and, with her beloved fiance by her side, sets sail for America. But when illness robs her of the man she holds dear, she's left alone with only a handful of tattered memories. While forging on proves difficult, Tillie soon finds some new friends at her New York boardinghouse, and begins pursuing a new dream--to open a home for orphaned children.

Despite two years passing, Captain Keondric Morgan has never forgotten the lass who left his ship so heartbroken. When a crewman's deathbed confession reveals her fiance's demise was the result of murder, the captain knows he must try to contact her. But his attention draws the notice of others as well--dangerous men who believe Tillie has in her possession something that could expose their crimes. And to their way of thinking, the best way to prevent such an outcome is to seize the evidence and then hand Tillie the same fate as her naïve fiance.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Tide and Tempest, go HERE.

My Review:
 Tillie McGrath left Ireland to start out fresh and new with her fiancé, only to lose him to an illness. Having lost the only man she has ever loved, her whole life was changed, it seemed like forever. But Tillie isn't going to let that stop her from bettering herself in New York. Finally, having friends who truly care about her, Tillie finally starts finding hope in life, a reason to live. She make plans to open a home for orphaned children. In the hopes she will help many saddened and alone children.

 Capt. Keondric Morgan remembers Tillie, the girl who had once been on top of the world, but left his ship a heartbroken woman. Keondric knew that her husband or soon to be husband had died on his ship, but after looking through the evidence more, he notices what could be the truth to her fiancés murder. Finding this evidence and making this discovery he has opened up a new can of worms, one that can put himself and Tillie in danger. He must find Tillie and tell her what he has found before it's to late. But where could she be?

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

Review: An Amish Garden by:Wiseman/Fuller/Goyer/Chapman

About the Book:
“A Place of Healing” Vannetta Chapman
Emma discovers a run-away teen in her barn, and the bishop asks her to provide a haven for a woman and her two children. Then her mother-in-law reveals a secret about her garden. Will Emma choose loneliness or learn to accept God’s gifts?
“Flowers for Rachael” Kathleen Fuller
Rachael’s garden is beautiful, but she is lonely. Gideon is in love with Rachael, but when Rachael finds her garden in shambles after a crisis, she rejects his help. Will she realize she doesn’t have to do everything on her own?
“Seeds of Love” Tricia Goyer
When a corporation shows interest in buying Sadie’s heirloom seeds, she panics. They are all she has left of her Dat and Mem. Eli believes he can help Sadie, but a misunderstanding leaves her heartbroken. Will she trust him again, and will the seeds of a new relationship take root?
“Planting a Future” Beth Wiseman
Rosemary is doing her best to run her family’s household. She excels at all her tasks except one: gardening. Saul has been interested in her for years, but Rosemary has turned him down repeatedly. Saul begins helping with her family’s garden, but someone is sabotaging his efforts—and keeping a secret that could change their lives.

About the Authors:

Award-winning, best-selling author Beth Wiseman is best known for her Amish novels, but her most recent novels, Need You Now and The House that Love Built, are contemporaries set in small Texas towns. Both have received glowing reviews. Beth's highly-anticipated novel, The Promise, is inspired by a true story. Twitter: @bethwiseman Facebook: Fans-of-Beth-Wiseman


Kathleen Fuller is the author of several best-selling novels, including A Man of His Word and Treasuring Emma, as well as a middle-grade Amish series, The Mysteries of Middlefield. Twitter: @TheKatJam


USA Today best-selling author Tricia Goyer is the author of 35 books, including the three-book Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors series. She has written over 500 articles for national publications and blogs for high traffic sites like TheBetterMom.com and MomLifeToday.com. Tricia and her husband John live in Little Rock, Arkansas where John works for FamilyLife. They have six children. Twitter: @triciagoyer Facebook: authortriciagoyer


Vannetta Chapman is author of the best-selling novel A Simple Amish Christmas. She has published over one hundred articles in Christian family magazines, receiving over two dozen awards from Romance Writers of America chapter groups. She discovered her love for the Amish while researching her grandfather's birthplace of Albion, Pennsylvania. Twitter: @VannettaChapman Facebook: VannettaChapmanBooks

My Review:
 In this stirring novella, we get to read four pieces of great writing from some of the best in the business. Beth Wiseman, Kathleen Fuller, Tricia Goyer, & Vannetta Chapman--these ladies are great at their craft and they have come together in the writing of An Amish Garden, to share it with all of us. See my thoughts on each story below.

Rooted In Love by:Beth Wiseman
 Rosemary Lantz and Saul Petersheim courted for a very short and abrupt three month period before Rosemary's mothers death. No one really understands why and sweet Saul has waited on Rosemary's heart to once again invite him in, but it has been a slow go as of late. That is until he runs into Walter and injures him by accident and Saul wants to repay him by working on his land. Will Rosemary and Saul come together after all these years? It's what their hearts both long for, since its within their reach again, how will it all play out?

Flowers for Rachael by:Kathleen Fuller
 Moving along to the next garden adventure we are taken to the garden of Rachael Bontrager has an amazing flower garden that she pours her blood, sweat, and tears into. But even the most happiest people seem to be the loneliest and it is no different in this story. When Gideon Beiler enters her sights it is hard for her to control her emotions. She was convinced that she was the only one with these types of feelings, but that she will soon see is anything but the truth. Gideon Beiler is completely in awe of her but Rachael has a very difficult time separating what she believes she is responsible for verses what God has chosen for her.

Seeds of Love by:Tricia Goyer
 Eli Plank is a bachelor that travels for his job as scribe of an Amish newspaper and this trip places him in Montana amongst the town of West Kootenai. He hadn't been in town long before it seemed this Amish community was unlike any he had visited. The intermingled with the English, quite freely. The weather there was also a mystery to him because it was still cool in May. The community children loved him it seems and had a lot to tell him about the area. But really he seen something, or should I say some that interested him even more and that was Sadie Chupp. She hadn't had it easy in her young life and Eli wants to know why.

Where Healing Blooms by:Vannetta Chapman
  Emma, recently widowed,  lives with her mother in law Mary Ann. Mary Ann's pride and joy is her garden. Mary Ann uses her garden as a place of teaching for Emma and for the healing that Emma seems to desperately need. Both ladies, not spring chickens anymore, have been living together and relying on one another for some time now. One day Danny, a very longtime family friend, that has always been sweet on Emma drops in. And for a few minutes everything is fine and going along nicely until Emma spots a young boy sneaking out of her barn. Soon the mystery is solved, but what Emma doesn't realize is, is that she will still have a hand in helping this young boy and his family. So whatever this is about, is not over by a long shot.

Soon spring will have sprung and in typical Amish fashion these lovely ladies have come together and provided something for us to enjoy while we tend to our own spring gardens. Each story is woven with simplicity and enraptured with romance. All four of the stories included in this novella will have you longing for the gentle breeze blowing across your face and the sweet smell of fresh, green grass between your toes.

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

Minky Chic Giveaway Hosted by Pea of Sweetness

Minky Chic Giveaway Hosted by Pea of Sweetness

Sponsored by Minky Chic

Co-Hosted by Deals of Sweetness

There's nothing quite like the feel of a Minky Chic minky baby blanket or throw. Their soft baby blankets are made of the finest minky available. They make great gifts for baby showers, birthdays, or just about any holiday! Whether you're cuddling on the couch with your new baby or reading a book, you'll love the feel of your minky blanket. Minky Chic minky baby blankets, toddler blankets and throws are all handmade in the U.S.A. from imported fabric. All are 100% Polyester of the finest minky and satin fabrics available and are Machine Washable. They offer a large selection of satin back baby blankets that you won't find anywhere else. Emilee from Pea of Sweetness loves the feel of minky, and was excited to receive one of their super soft blankets for their daughter. Read her Minky Chic review for more. Wouldn't you love one of these beautiful blankets? Minky Chic is offering one reader the chance to win a Minky Baby Blanket 29"x40" for either boy or girl. This giveaway begins on 3/19 at 7:00 pm and ends on 4/2 at 11:00pm (times are Central) and is open to US residents ages 18+. Please refer to the full terms and conditions in the Giveaway Tools.

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  Disclosure: Emilee from Pea of Sweetness and Deals of Sweetness received free product in exchange for an honest review. Participating bloggers are not responsible for prize fulfillment.

Litfuse Review: The Devil Walks In Mattingly by:Bill Coffey

About the Book:
For the three people tortured by their secret complicity in a young man's untimely death, redemption is what they most long for . . . and the last thing they expect to receive.

It has been twenty years since Philip McBride's body was found along the riverbank in the dark woods known as Happy Hollow. His death was ruled a suicide. But three people have carried the truth ever since--Philip didn't kill himself that day. He was murdered.

Each of the three have wilted in the shadow of their sins. Jake Barnett is Mattingly's sheriff, where he spends his days polishing the fragile shell of the man he pretends to be. His wife, Kate, has convinced herself the good she does for the poor will someday wash the blood from her hands. And high in the mountains, Taylor Hathcock lives in seclusion and fear, fueled by madness and hatred.

Yet what cannot be laid to rest is bound to rise again. Philip McBride has haunted Jake's dreams for weeks, warning that he is coming back for them all. When Taylor finds mysterious footprints leading from the Hollow, he believes his redemption has come. His actions will plunge the quiet town of Mattingly into darkness. These three will be drawn together for a final confrontation between life and death . . . between truth and lies.

About the Author:
Billy Coffey's critically acclaimed books combine rural Southern charm with a vision far beyond the ordinary. He is a regular contributor to several publications, where he writes about faith and life. Billy lives with his wife and two children in Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains. Visit him at www.billycoffey.com.

My Review:
Jake has been having odd dreams ever since the death of a good friend and he finds himself doing the most unspeakable things. He feels that his friend is trying to show him something through his dreams, but what? Soon appearances of odd things start to happen, it's doesn't take Jake long to realize that his friend's death has something to do with it.

Kate does feel some remorse about what happened, but it seems her husband has taken a turn for the worst. She does the only thing she knows to do, help people. She begins trying to learn more of the new girl  that moved into town. The girl seems to have something to hide but says nothing of it. Kate can't shake the feeling that something is wrong.

Taylor finds mysterious footprints leading from Happy Hollow. He knows that there's something very odd about that because its footprints coming out not in, whatever made the footprints was already in Happy Hollow. Taylor must find out who came out of Happy Hollow before it's to late.

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

Review: God and Men:No-Holds-Barred by:Carlton Lee Arnold

About the Book:
God and Men: No-Holds-Barred is not your typical devotional book. It is highly probable that you will be greatly challenged with God and Men: No-Holds-Barred. The objective is to encourage you to become more Christ-like in your living. Through reading God and Men: No-Holds-Barred, it is guaranteed that you will become more convicted either with living by the world's standards or by God's standards. The book will not allow you to remain neutral. It attempts to answer the question, "How does the Bible describe a Real Christian Man?" Its objective is to enable Christians to personally apply specific Bible verses to their personal lives. 

 At the same time, you will learn more about your Bible as well as receive an in-depth discussion of the verses selected. Since men do not naturally read books, it is highly recommended that you read the book with someone else. This introduces a joint accountability to read the book through. Husbands and wives are strongly recommended to share this method of reading through the book. "Someone once said that all scripture is inspired by God, but is not all equally inspiring. These are the really inspiring verses. The underlined verses. The memorized verses. Explained. Applied. Illustrated. We need to be reminded often of these verses. This book will help."

About the Author:
After accepting Christ at the age of 12 years old, it was not until 30 that Carlton Arnold had a deep hunger to read and study God’s Word. For the past 35 years, he has been heavily involved in teaching Bible study classes that allowed him to gain a unique perspective of what Christians in different parts of the country experience. Arnold currently lives in Cumming, Georgia with his wife of 44 years.

My Review:
 The men in our lives need that male role model to show them God's truth revealed. in God's eyes we have to chose a side those that are not with Him are most definitely against Him. Mr. Arnold, sees the need that men of today need and has decided to rise to the call of mentor&friend. The best part I feel of the whole book, is that the author has first hand experience because him being a man helps to relate to other men better. He knows what they think and how they think.

 Being married for twenty years, I can tell you that the subjects he addresses in the book are specifically geared towards a man's heart. Sometimes the things our husband or man in our life needs to hear come better from another man not us girls. Don't ask me why, they just hear it better coming from them. I especially liked the chapter on yelling, this applies to a man that I know. He really struggles with it so I hope to pass along the book to him and I hope it ministers to him.

  The devotional type book, God and Men: No Holds Barred, is a book where the author has taken his experiences and scripture and created a teaching tool for men to help gauge their lives to radiate the Lord. In the hopes that by glorifying their relationships and learning to think better, to live better, they will glorify the Master.

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

Review: Becoming The Chateran,Book 1 by:S.J. Aisling

 
About the Book:
When Princess Rhea’s actions inadvertently condemn two innocent knights to death, she wakes to the hard reality that not even nobility is above the law. All her attempts to remedy the situation only complicate it, however, until she finds herself a fugitive in her own kingdom, having dragged her best friend into the trouble, as well. Their only hope for pardon? To accompany Sir Paladin and Sir Zephen in their sentence:

Slay, or be slain by, the Dragons of Sama-Ael-Fen.

Traveling incognito, they meet with more malicious Phoenixes than could be coincidental, discover the mysterious disappearance of numerous citizens, and come face to face with a reawakened evil power. With the kingdom oblivious to the connection of these dangers, it’s up to Rhea and her outlaw companions to stop the rising threat and redeem their names – if they can survive their quest.
 
About the Author:
 Stacia Joy always loved to tell stories and invent fictional lands and characters. She did not consider writing, however, until she was thirteen, when, inspired by a make-believe she was playing with a friend, she wrote the first draft of what become her debut book, Becoming the Chateran. Since then, the story of Becoming the Chateran (Aniko Press, 2013) has expanded into what will become The Chateran Series. Aside from fantasy, Stacia Joy also writes steampunk/science fantasy and science fiction. Occasionally she pens poems about buffalo and dinosaurs.

When not obsessing over writing or art, Stacia Joy spends her free time Irish dancing, attempting archery, playing the piano and folk harp, composing music, and singing at the top of her lungs. She also enjoys helping with children's ministry at her local church, and currently lives in the Madison, Wisconsin area with a kitten named Lord Peter Whimsey.

My Review:
 Princess Rhea loves to be free to do what she wants, she doesn't want to marry this stuffed shirt prince betrothed to marry her. That's when Rhea ventures out in the forest, though she thought it would be fun and exciting, she  only got lost. Which I guess can be exciting for a time especially when you can't find your way home.

 Rhea and her mare find many admirable and frightening things in the forest, from cute animals to scary farm hands chasing her. Rhea thinks she has found the way back home but has only found the path to an old cottage and the cottages owner. The cottage owner takes her in and feeds her, telling her of the things she would have never heard from even the closets of family. He made her feel like she was normal, not just a princess. With him showing her the path home she was off again.

 Sir Paladin sits upon the highest hill waiting for his friend and partner Sir Zephen. Zephen had been gone for a while after telling Paladin that he needed to check on something. Many would have thought Zephen was dead because he was a knight and knights are mostly thought of to be human but sometimes names and titles can be deceiving, Zephen is a nice Phoenix. He trust Zephen and that's all that matters. Paladin sees a soft gray mare heading up the trail to him, the closer the mare gets he soon notices a small woman riding atop of it.

 Paladin can't help but see that the woman is the one and only beautiful princess Rhea, but what would she be doing out here at this time? The princess stops to ask him for help, he of course is willing to help, but as he tries to take her back to her home, he hears the neighing of horse and the clattering of armor. Apparently the princess heard it also, because she raced past him back down the trail headed once again for the forest.

 This book, I'm gonna warn you is a very large book. The paperback version has 560 pages so it is not for the easily wearied. If you enjoy a fantasy type book than this is the book for you.  The author has done a very good job with her debut novel and had me really engaged.

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

Review: A Draw Of Kings by:Patrick Carr

About the Book:
 Their journey to Merakh should have made Errol and his companions heroes of the realm. Instead, much is changed on their return. In the wake of the king’s death, Duke Weir is ruling the country–and his intentions are to marry Adora to bring an heir.
With Errol and the others imprisoned and the identity of the rightful heir to the throne still hidden in secrecy, Illustra is on the verge of civil war–and at growing risk from the armies of Merakh and Morgol.
A dangerous mission to free Errol succeeds, but the dangers facing the kingdom are mounting with every passing moment. The barrier has fallen, ferals are swarming toward the land, and their enemies draw near. Will the revelation of Illustra’s next true king come in time or will all be lost?

About the Author:
Patrick W. Carr is the author of the acclaimed fantasy A Cast of Stones and The Hero's Lot. He teaches high school and makes his home in Nashville, Tennessee, with his incredible wife, Mary, and their four sons, Patrick, Connor, Daniel, and Ethan. Learn more at www.patrickwcarr.com. 

My Review:
Duke Weir  may end up losing his throne and his identity do to secrets well hidden. He expected with Errol being imprisoned along with countless others, his throne was safe, but somethings are not as they seem. Weir must find a way to save his kingdom from the grasp of Errol. He knows that if he doesn't do something soon, it will all be for a lost cause. But what can he possibly do?

Errol just has to escape prison to tell everyone who the rightful heir to the throne really is. The news will definitely take the Duke off the throne and possibly send him to prison along with countless others he put there. With help from an outsider, Errol may soon be able to escape and expose the truth. What will the outcome be?

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: A Hearts Rebellion by:Ruth Axtell

About the Book:
 Dutiful Jessamine Barry is tired of waiting patiently for a man to decide her future. So even though Lancelot Marfleet, second son of an aristocrat, is taking an interest in her during the London season, she refuses to consider him as a suitor. Instead, she's ready to take fashionable society by storm--and finds a rakish young man all too willing to help her do it. When things go too far, Jessamine will learn that the man who is faithful through thick and thin is more worthy than the one who speaks pretty words. But will her disgrace keep Lance from reconsidering her as a wife? And when tragedy strikes and Lance becomes his father's heir and a titled gentleman, will he think she only wants him now because of his title?

About the Author:
Ruth Axtell is the author of many novels, including Moonlight Masquerade and Wild Rose, one of Booklist's Top Ten in Christian Fiction. Currently a resident of Downeast Maine, Axtell has lived in the Canary Islands, Miami, and the Netherlands. Learn more at www.ruthaxtell.com.

My Review:
 Jessamine has waited and waited for a man to come along, and she tired of the wait. It's time for her to do something on her own, no more waiting. Jessamine heads into the fashion world by storm, with only hopes and prayers, she can only try to make it. But as it seems she may not make it, an amazing man pops up willing to help. He seems to have feelings for her but she doesn't hear of it, he should have came along when she wanted not now when she is finally on her own, pursuing her dreams.

 Lancelot feels like he can't hold his tongue when he's around Jessamine. She makes him want to speak his mind and tell her what she should and shouldn't do. He finds her very pretty and is willing to do what ever it takes to help her. Even if she acts as if he shouldn't be near her or even help her. Lancelot can only help her as much as she will allow, he is going to need help with this feisty one.

 A story full of romance and intrigue with page turning enthusiasm, sure to make you long for more!

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

Review: Riley Mae and the Rock Shocker Trek by:Jill Osborne

 
About the Book:
If you're gonna run for your life, you gotta wear the right shoes. Riley Mae Hart loves sports and action---so when the Swiftriver Shoe Company offers her a contract to be the spokesperson for their new outdoor sport collection, she jumps at the chance. Soon she's appearing in commercials and magazine ads, and every girl in town wants to wear Riley Mae shoes. Well, except for Riley. Because walking in those shoes means missing out on softball season, making her best friend TJ mad, and embarrassing her new friend, Rusty. It also means sneaking around, hiding, and keeping secrets---because suddenly something isn't quite right at Swiftriver. But a contract's a contract, so Riley laces up her 'Rock Shocker' hiking boots for a climb up Half-Dome in Yosemite. Will they be the right shoes to get her back on solid ground?

About the Author:
Jill Osborne works in children's ministry and has a passion for telling great stories. She has written plays, skits for youth groups and Sunday morning drama teams, curriculum for children's ministry, countless articles for her church newsletter, and a blog about taking a sabbatical in a motor home. Good News Shoes is her first series for kids, and she plans to run with it!

My Review:
 Being a young girl at the tender age of 12, you really have no worries. Look out world! Here comes young and spunky Riley Mae, she loves her friends and playing softball. She seems to be alright at first with all the attention being a shoe spokesperson entails but soon she feels that her decisions are exactly lining up with the person she is or the company she represents. This book is perfect for girls between the ages of 8-12, it holds their attention and is faith based. I love the series and look forward to seeing more from this author.

 Choosing to do the right thing isn't always easy for our children whether its girls or boys. The pull to always be popular or liked is still going strong for today's youth. I know my own children struggle with what God wants verses what the world wants. As a parent I am really glad that there are authors out there willing to address this issue and to support the fact that God's will is the way to go and something that we should strive for.

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the BookLook Bloggers Program

Review: The Essence of Living Faith by:Michael Gifford

 
About the Book:
Since "faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" (Romans 10:17), the essence of living faith is taking that Word, hiding it in our hearts (Psalm 119:11) and then putting it into action daily. Some of the best examples of living faith are found in the eleventh chapter of Hebrews, also known as "The Faithful Hall of Fame." You are invited to join us in a thirteen lesson study of this monumental chapter. In it you will discover faith in the hearts of God's people that led to amazing accomplishments on earth and blessed reward in heaven. We, too, can have this faith and, with it, we too can overcome the world and celebrate victory in eternity (I John 5:4)

About the Author:
Michael Gifford has been preaching and teaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ for over 30 years. He was married to the former Shannon Nolen for 30 years until her passing in April 2010. They have four wonderful children, Whitney Mitchell, Elise Gifford, Andrew Gifford and Adam Gifford, a tremendous son-in-law, David Mitchell and three outstanding grandchildren, Daniel Mitchell, Norah Mitchell and Naomi Mitchell. Michael resides in Cartersville, Georgia and is a member of the Cartersville church of Christ.

My Review:
 A Living faith is action based faith. We are not only to have faith in God, but we are to be an example of that faith and live it out for the world to see. The Essence of Living Faith, could not of come at a better time when this world and its issues are so out of sync and driving madly toward the evil side at an enormous rate. This 13 week lesson study delves deeper and takes us higher on the subject of living faith and learning what that is&how to live out our faith in Him.

 God not only will speaks to us through His word but through many other things we do in our daily lives. You can live your life in Him, and claim it to be so. But then an unsaved individual can actually be used by God to show you where you maybe misguiding him or her in your walk. Sometimes we recognize this and correct and sometimes we don't. That is something we need to pray and ask God to help discern. Because we could be living out something that is labeled for God and all about Him when in actuality it is for ourselves. The more we do studies such as these, the closer we can get to the life God wants for us and the closer we get to the relationship we long for with Him.

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

CFBA Review: Poison Town by:Creston Mapes

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Poison Town David C. Cook (February 1, 2014) by Creston Mapes

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Creston has fond memories of his boyhood in Bath, Ohio, where he became enchanted with his future wife, way back in the fourth grade. His father, Bernie, owned and operated The Weathervane Furniture Shop in town. The whole family lived right upstairs in the century-old house known as "The Shop."

Creston studied journalism at Bowling Green State University, then began his writing career. During the past 30 years, he has worked as a reporter, corporate copywriter, creative director, freelance writer, and author.


ABOUT THE BOOK

There's More Than One Kind of Poison in This Town

People are sick and dying. Rumors are swirling. Some claim chemicals leaking from a manufacturing plant are causing the cancer that's crippling people on the poor side of Trenton City, Ohio. Yet nothing at the plant appears amiss.

The problem remains a mystery until reporter Jack Crittendon's long-time mechanic falls ill and he investigates. Soon Jack becomes engulfed in a smokescreen of lies, setups, greed, and scandal.

The deeper he digs, the more toxic the corruption he uncovers. As he faces off with the big-time players behind the scenes and tries to beat the clock before more people die, he realizes the chillingly unthinkable--he knows too much.

If you'd like to read the first chapter of Poison Town, go HERE.


My Review:
Travis waits to have breakfast with his father, reading the newspaper he sees once again the many deaths caused by the fiberglass factory. Someone desperately needed to shut that factory down, before it killed to many people. Travis thinks he's waited long enough and heads to his fathers room only to find a man in black exiting the room. Travis runs into the room finding that his father's IV bag was replaced with some kind of pink poison. And that's when his father started gasping for air.

LJ didn't expect to get a call explaining that someone had tried to poison his father. LJ rushes to the hospital hoping to find out who possibly did this but upon his arrival he finds his father happy as can be as if nothing happened. LJ can't believe his eyes,but he also knows its time to b on guard, who knows what could happen next.

Jack has known LJ and Travis for years, they were all close friends. When he heard of what happened to their father, Jack rushed to the office were they all worked. Jack finds the place vandalized, but it didn't look as if anything was taken. Who would have done such a thing and touch nothing? What was this person after?

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