The Bridesmaid by Beverly Lewis, Book review

Publisher: Bethany House Publishers 
ISBN-13: 978-0764209789

Synopsis:

Twenty-seven-year-old Joanna Kurtz has made several trips to the altar, but never as a bride. The single young Amishwoman is a closet writer with a longing to be published something practically unheard of in her Lancaster County community. Yet Joanna's stories aren't her only secret. She also has a beau who is courting her from afar, unbeknownst even to her sister, Cora, who, though younger, seems to have suitors to spare.

Eben Troyer is a responsible young Amishman who hopes to make Joanna Kurtz his bride--if he can ever leave his parents' farm in Shipshewana, Indiana. Yet with his only brother off in the English world, intent on a military career, Eben's hopes for building a life with his dear Joanna are dimming, and patience is wearing thin. Will Joanna ever be more than a bridesmaid?

My thoughts:

It is said that Beverly Lewis gave birth to the Amish genre in 1997 with 'The Shunning' so it will come to no surprise that  her name is practically a household name! She is enduring and continually delights her readers with yet another wonderful story. 'The Bridesmaid' is no exception! The novel brings such clear imagery you will find yourself acutely a part of the plot!

As an avid reader and an Amish genre aficionado, I found Joanna and Eben's story enticed any yearning for dreaming. Theirs is surely a match made in Heaven! 
There is a decided attraction to learn yet another facet of Amish life and Beverly Lewis is sure to pen a lesson or two about faith and living amongst the Amish community (and Englisher!). 
Inviting plots, attractive characters (and sub characters!) and the chance of reflecting on hopes and aspirations will delight as always. 
Her warm heart stories are always amazing! They also make a perfect gift for anyone, young or old,  on your list this Holiday Season!

Second novel in the Hickory Hollow series, 'The Bridesmaid' tells us of a Pennsylvania alt Maidel who unbeknown to her family and community loves to write make believe stories. Joanna's attraction to Eben Troyer is warmly reciprocated but there is a glitch in their burgeoning courtship: Eben is needed on the family farm in Indiana whilst Joanna has vowed to remain part of her congregation leaving them with no choice but to part ways. 

With a lot of faith and a little help from an almost forgotten letter written by her namesake, Joanna finds that God listens and there are many blessings in her future after all.

5 Stars as I found this story truly a joy!

About the Author:

'I've had my nose in a book, for as long as I remember. When I was about 9 years old, I started writing my own stories. By sixth grade, I'd hand-written a 66-page semi-autobiographical book titled, "She Shall Have Music."

After I was married and our three children were in middle school, I began submitting articles and short fiction to various magazines.

My first book (Holly's First Love) was published in May 1993, the start of a 14-book series for pre-teen girls. Soon after, my first chapter book was published for 7-10-year-old readers ("Big Bad Beans") which later became part of my 24-book series, The Cul-de-Sac Kids. I wrote another long-running series for girls, titled "SummerHill Secrets," which was set very close to Neffsville, PA, where I grew up--near the heart of Amish country.'

For additional information including trailers, excerpts and more, see Beverly's website (here).

I received this book free from BETHANY HOUSE PUBLISHERS as part of their blogger review program.

I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Putting Christ Back In Christmas...

With all the preparations for celebrating this blessed Season, many of us tend to overlook the true reason for the festivities. 

I am always amazed at all the decorations that spring up in people's homes, the 'shop, shop until you drop' and the stress generated by all the seasonal effervescence...Yes, there are carols and much merrymaking at this time of the year and we enjoy those too. 

But not to sound like (I hope) Ebenezer Scrooge, monetary gifts (made to assuage our conscience perhaps), the endless lists of gifts purchased in lieu of sharing real warmth with our loved ones are hardly necessary...

Why should we place (as the media would have us believe) a maximum gift amount on each recipient? Is it even worth sharing something if there has to be a monetary value on the gift?

Homemade gifts are by far the best way to go but than again, not all of us have the craft touch! Still, it is far more in the spirit of Christmas to share something we have actually made than purchased!

A day trip off island let me discover this year is no different than the others. Somehow in the hustle and bustle, frantic shoppers were looking for that special bargain to bestow on their loved ones, often grasping handfuls and dropping it in their shopping cart. 

The only feeling I retained (after attempting to shop for much needed supplies in preparation for the stormy weather we are promised) was total dismay. It was difficult to enjoy the latest decorations for the shoving and short tempers of many shoppers!

Somehow the real reason for the Season gets often lost...

So I resolved to try once more to put Christ back in Christmas for our family! 

Traditionally the Advent allows us to feel the Spirit of the Season and we like to remember childhood memories with SinterKlaas on the 6th of Decembre complete with speculoos and marzipan fruits.

And since no little kiddies figure in our immediate household, we then turn to setting up the mood in our home with a blend of native traditions, ours and others!

As far as I can remember there has always been an extra setting at our table to allow for any unexpected guest. ANYONE who has nowhere to go on that special night may enter our home and share our repast.

'I was hungry, and you gave Me food. I was thirsty, and you gave Me something to drink. I was alone and away from home, and you invited Me into your house'. (Matthew 25:35)

A more recent (2 - 3 decades) addition to 'unbreakable' traditions is the inclusion of a special ornament in our (tiny) tree, a Tree Trimming Tradition...It comes with a story...

'This is the Christmas Nail.

It is to be hung on a sturdy branch, a branch near the trunk, a branch that will hold such a spike without being noticed by well-wishers dropping by to admire one's tinseled tree.

The Nail is known only to the home that hangs it. Understood only by the heart that knows its significance.

It is hung with the thought:

'The Christmas tree but foreshadows the Christ-tree which only He could decorate for us, ornamented with nails as this.'

The Breath Of Dawn by Kristen Heitmann, Book review & Giveaway

Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
ISBN-13: 978-0764210426

Synopsis:


Morgan Spencer has had just about all he can take of life. Following the tragic death of his wife, Jill, he retreats to his brother's Rocky Mountain ranch to heal and focus on the care of his infant daughter, Olivia. Two years later, Morgan begins to make plans to return to his home in Santa Barbara to pick up the pieces of his life and career.

Quinn Riley has been avoiding her past for four years. Standing up for the truth has forced her into a life of fear and isolation. After a "chance" first meeting and a Thanksgiving snowstorm, Quinn is drawn into the Spencer family's warm and loving world, and she begins to believe she might find freedom in their friendship.

The man Quinn helped put behind bars has recently been released, however, and she fears her past will endanger the entire Spencer family. As the danger heightens, she determines to leave town for the sake of the people who have come to mean so much to her.

Fixing problems is what Morgan Spencer does best, and he is not willing to let Quinn run away, possibly into the clutches of a man bent on revenge. But Morgan's solution sends him and Quinn on an unexpected path, with repercussions neither could have anticipated.

My thoughts:

'The Breath Of Dawn' is my first novel by Kristen Heitzmann and quite an adventure! 
Fast paced with intricate twists guaranteed to keep you guessing! I honestly held my breath (no pun intended) more than once but a very good choice for reading. 
This is a richly woven plot with well described characters and good biblical and spiritual teachings throughout! A page turner for sure!

Morgan Spencer can only be described as a man going nowhere fast. The only thing going for him is his two year old daughter. 
On the other end we meet Quinn Reilly (love that first name), hiding from her family and friends due to a past she would rather forget. 
Then a series of events brings these two lost souls together and life takes a totally different direction...
Their lives entangle as events unfold but along with a growing attraction deadly threats arise. 
Morgan and Quinn soon discover life and God have more to offer than their wildest wishes!

An excitedly well written novel which I found totally gripping and well worth a 5 Stars rating!


Note to Readers: Be sure of course to check out other reviews (HERE)!

About the Author:

Kristen Heitzmann is the bestselling author of twenty novels, including Colorado Book Award finalist The Still of Night and Christy Award winner Secrets. She lives with her husband, Jim, and lots of extended family in the Rocky Mountain foothills of Colorado, where she climbs trails into God's great beauty.
For more on this author visit her website (HERE)

Kristen Heitzmann is celebrating The Breath of Dawn by giving away one of the new Paperwhite Kindles and hosting a fun Author Chat Party on Facebook. (11/27)

One fortunate winner will receive:

• A Kindle Paperwhite
• The Breath of Dawn by Kristen Heitzmann

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 26th. Winner will be announced at the "The Breath of Dawn" Author Chat Facebook Party on 11/27. Connect with Kristen, get a sneak peek of her next book, try your hand at the trivia contest, and chat with readers just like you. There will also be gift certificates, books and a Book Club Prize Pack to be won (10 copies for your book club or small group)!

So grab your copy of The Breath of Dawn and join Kristen on the evening of the November 27th for a chance to connect with Kristen and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book - don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 27th!

I received this book free from LITFUSE GROUP as part of their blogger review program.

I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Against The Tide by Elizabeth Camden, Book review

Publisher: Bethany House Publishers 
ISBN-13: 978-0764210235

Synopsis:

As a child, Lydia Pallas became all too familiar with uncertainty when it came to the future. Now, she's finally carved out a perfect life for herself--a life of stability and order with no changes, surprises, or chaos of any kind. She adores her apartment overlooking the bustling Boston Harbor, and her skill with languages has landed her a secure position as a translator for the U.S. Navy.

However, it is her talent for translation that brings her into contact with Alexander Banebridge, or "Bane," a man who equally attracts and aggravates her. When Bane hires Lydia to translate a seemingly innocuous collection of European documents, she hesitantly agrees, only to discover she is in over her head.

Just as Bane's charm begins to win her over, Lydia learns he is driven by a secret campaign against some of the most dangerous criminals on the East Coast, compelled by his faith and his past. Bane forbids any involvement on Lydia's part, but when the criminals gain the upper hand, it is Lydia on whom he must depend.

My thoughts:


With its intriguing prologue set in 1876 Boston 'Against the Tide' captivated this reader and by the time I finished Chapter 1, this time set fifteen years later in 1891 I was hooked! 
Elizabeth Camden's name is now added to my list of favourite writers! 
True to her Masters degrees in History and Library Science, Elizabeth Camden writes historical spellbinding novels which leaves you wanting for more. 

Richly woven against the highest of the Opium trade, the author introduces us to a little known fact: this drug was present in a many compound sold over the chemist (pharmacy) counters across the continental US and abroad. In fact Mrs. Winslow's syrup for young children was one of the biggest culprit but I am getting ahead of myself.

Lydia Pallas is first introduced in the narrative as a young orphan left on the shores of Boston's wharves. She survives 15 years in an orphanage and after two years search found a small advertizing for a translator position in the US Navy offices. Greek, Turkish and Croatian were her first and subsequent languages. To English she added Russian, Italian and Albanian making her a perfect candidate for the job required by the struggling navy after the Civil War and the Army's expansion to the West. 

Lydia loves her new life and staunchly keeps to herself. She first encounter Alexander Bainbridge in the office as he sweeps by, leaving her in no doubt he wants something from her. 
It soon appears her linguistic talents is more required by the man dubbed 'The Adonis' than her female attributes. Despite her misgivings she finds herself drawn to him as if part of her own soul. Together they become a team to find the source of the opium shipments to Boston.

The subsequent events described by Elizabeth Camden leaves you in no doubt this is an intricate plot written by a master of storytelling! Part history, part drama with just enough bittersweet romance to please any romantic soul, this is none the less a recount of the gritty and addictive story of the opium reach amidst the 1800's in daily lives. You might find yourself quite shocked to read the implications of this dreadful addiction and how long it took to remove its hold on the market!  

Difficult to put down and even harder to share (albeit I found myself discussing -almost-every revealing new twist in this compelling novel with hubby! It is now his turn to read it!)

5 Stars as there are no higher!

About the Author:

 
Elizabeth Camden is intriguing as her novels! Here is a little bit of her biography (see more HERE).
Be sure to check out the option of reading an excerpt, how to buy this book and the BOOK EXTRAS!

'I am a college librarian in central Florida by day, but by night I can be found pounding out inspirational historical novels the moment the sun goes down. I love writing books about fiercely intelligent people who are confronted with profound challenges. As a rather introverted person, I have found that writing is the best way for me to share my faith and a sense of resilience with others.

I decided to become a librarian because I can think of no other career in which you get such a wide exposure to all aspects of recorded knowledge. I have been an academic librarian for fifteen years, where on any given day I get to research the sonnets of Shakespeare, learn what makes pelican feathers pink, or compile demographic statistics for starting a new company...'

 I received this book free from BETHANY HOUSE PUBLISHERS as part of their blogger review program.

I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Christmas Roses by Amanda Cabot, Book review

Publisher: Revell 
ISBN-13: 978-0800720049

Synopsis:
 

Celia Anderson doesn't need anything for Christmas except a few more boarders, which are hard to come by in this small mining town. She certainly doesn't have a husband on her Christmas wish list. But when a wandering carpenter finds lodging at her boarding house, she admits that she might remarry if she found the right man--the kind of man who would bring her roses for Christmas. It would take a miracle to get roses during a harsh Wyoming winter. But Christmas, after all, is the time for miracles . . .

My thoughts:

What better way to put yourself in the Holiday mood than reading 'Christmas Roses' by Amanda Cabot?
Never insipid and always inspiring, this storyteller brings us a tale of love, hope and even a miracle set in Wyoming Territory in1882. Trust Amanda to know how to bring a little romance and a lot of faith in her readers lives!

Celia Anderson welcomes a new boarder in her home and life suddenly takes a new turn. She might just change her mind about not remarrying but only if the man brings her something she treasures and at Christmas no less! 

With that thought in mind, I was hooked as I held this lovely hardback in my hands with its enchanting Currier & Ives illustration! You will find yourself chuckling at Mark's wincing when he is surrounded by all of Celia's treasured flowers and hold your breath as he surprises her with his carpenter's skills for a much needed gift for her home.

The book in itself is a little treasure and you will soon be enchanted by Celia, her baby girl, the story behind Mark's wanderings in search of a missing relative and his hope to become worthy of the young widow's love!

Be prepared for some surprises as faith demands total surrender! 

Combined with her minute attention to historical details as well as her romantic nature, Amanda Cabot brings us a warm tale of love and redemption just in time for this blessed Season!

5 Stars and a lovely gift for the romantic on your Christmas gift list! This one is a keeper! 

About the Author:

With both parents avid readers, it's no surprise that Amanda Cabot learned to read at an early age. From there it was only a small step to deciding to become a writer. Of course, deciding and becoming are two different things, as she soon discovered. 
Fortunately for the world, her first attempts at fiction, which included a play for her fifth grade class entitled "All About Thermometers," were not published, but she did meet her goal of selling a novel by her thirtieth birthday. 
Since then she's sold more than twenty five novels under a variety of pseudonyms. When she's not writing, Amanda enjoys sewing, cooking and - of course - reading. 

For more on this author visit her website (here)

I received this book free from BAKER/REVELL as part of their blogger review program.

I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Thanksgiving...

(Norman Rockwell)

As families and friends gather today to celebrate and share bounty, let's remember all those who have so little and those so faraway...

Lord,

For the promise of harvest

contained within a seed

we thank you

For the oak tree

within an acorn

the bread

within a grain

the apple

within a pip

the mystery of nature

gift wrapped

for us to sow

we thank you.

Happy Thanksgiving to each and everyone... 

(Warning: Be careful not to eat too much turkey!)

For the promise of harvest
contained within a seed
we thank you.
For the oak tree
within an acorn
The bread
within a grain
The apple
within a pip
The mystery of nature
gift wrapped
for us to sow
we thank you

Read more at: http://www.faithandworship.com/Praying_through_the_Celtic_Year.htm#ixzz2Cth62Pa1
Under Creative Commons License: Attribution

Just A Touch Of Philosophy For Today...

Dear God,

Even when we do not heed the Sun,

There is still the Moon

And the Stars

And the lamp on a winter's evening ~

There is so much beautiful Light in the world.

(Wilhelm Raabe)

The Man Who Saved Christmas...

How many of us knows or perhaps remember 'The Man who saved Christmas'?...

A. C. Gilbert was definitively not a name I heard until I searched for movies for the upcoming Christmas season. As a rule in our family during the Holidays we see ONLY movies which remind us of the hopeful feelings the Christmas season brings to one and all. The same applies to any music so we gather DVDs, a handful of well loved Videos (yes we still have some of those!), and CD's on one shelf and chose from these.
Even the most cynical amongst us (remember Scrooge?) will acknowledge the wondrous feelings Christmas brings! 
How better to explain a promise made 2000 years ago still envelops us in warmth and love each year as we remember the birth of our Saviour?

A quick search told me A.C. Gilbert is better known as the inventor of the Erector set or Meccano set and countless other toys cherished by children throughout the years. 
An Olympic pole vault athlete, he tied for gold medal at the 1908 London Olympics with a fellow American and financed his Yale education as a magician.

He chose not to pursue his father's dream of seeing him established as a doctor and instead poured all his talents into designing toys, many inspired by the steel construction girders used on railroad lines. 
By 1907 he co-founded the Mysto Mfg, (later to become the A.C. Gilbert Co.) manufacturing magic sets and by 1913 he had invented the Erector set. 

WW1 changed lives for many and the Gilbert family was not immune. In 1918 their beloved toy manufacturing company changed almost overnight into a ammunition factory. Toys manufacturing came to a complete halt. When the National Defense Council considered a ban on toy making, Gilbert opposed it with resounding success thus earning him the title of the 'Man who saved Christmas' by the media.

A. C. Gilbert loved toys his entire life and gave the world chemistry sets, microscope sets and many more educational toys in a 50 years career span.
You might be interested in knowing he is also credited for initiating employees benefits and founded the Toy Manufacturers organization of America.

As to the movie...A very nice rendition of A.C. Gilbert's life or 'The Man Who Saved Christmas' by Jason Alexander with Ed Asner as his father. Sturla Gunnarsson as the director offers us a unique look at the world of toy making at the beginning of the 20th century!

I recommend it as a great story to share with your family during this Holiday Season!

Note to readers: This post reflects my opinion only and was not requested!

Courting Cate by Leslie Gould, Book review & Giveaway

Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
ISBN-13: 978-0764210310

Synopsis:

When Amish farmer Pete Treger moves to Paradise Township, Pennsylvania, seeking a better life, he meets sisters Cate and Betsy Miller. Both are beautiful, but older sister Cate is known more for her sharp tongue and fiery temper than her striking appearance. Betsy, on the other hand, is sweet and flirty--and seems to have attracted most of the bachelors in Lancaster County!

However, the sisters' wealthy father has made one hard and fast rule: elder sister must marry first, before the younger can even start courting. Unfortunately for poor Betsy, and for the men who want to court her, her older sister, Cate, doesn't have any suitors--until Pete comes to town, that is.

Though he finds both sisters attractive, something about Cate's feisty demeanor appeals to him. Soon the other bachelors in the district convince Pete to court Cate. She hardly seems receptive to his overtures, though. Instead, she's immediately suspicious of his interest.


My thoughts:

Leslie Gould has given an original twist to Amish life when she introduced Cate Miller and Pete  Treger in 'Courting Cate'! 
Who would have thought to see Shakespeare's well loved play 'The Taming of a Shrew' Amish style? This tale of wild courtship had me thinking of the splendid performance of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton! Somehow I could not imagine Elizabeth Taylor in Amish clothes!

For entertainment, Leslie Gould's story of a Maidel who is just short of being a shrew and a wandering new comer to Paradise, PA has to be the funniest I have ever heard when it comes to the Amish genre! 
There is such a witty approach to Leslie Gould's description of the two protagonists that you soon find yourself turning page after page (and forgetting the time!) to find out what this courtship is going to entail next. 
Lancaster County has never seemed so lively when this fiery couple spark!

Far from being the usual simple life setting described in other works of this genre, Leslie Gould shows us the business acumen of the Amish and the differences in lifestyle between each district. 

Cate Miller is not your usual Amish young woman: She neither cares for cooking, cleaning or sewing but  she is spirited, well read and runs her Dat's office.  
Believing herself to be unlovable and insecure, Cate has much to learn when she forgets to trust God with the future and it is a hard earned lesson! 
As her suitor Pete surprises her and she fights her heart because she cannot trust him or so she thinks. But as we see it, they are perfect for each other if only they can communicate!

The perfect read for a long rainy afternoon and a great gift for any woman on your Christmas list! 

'Courting Cate', Book # 1 of 'The Courtships of Lancaster County' series rates a good 5 stars!


BLOG TOUR SCHEDULE of Courting Cate - Book 1 in The Courtships of Lancaster County series below:

http://litfusegroup.com/author/LGould

Link to buy the book:  

http://ow.ly/eSNfb

About the Author:

Leslie Gould is the coauthor, with Mindy Starns Clark, of the #1 bestselling The Amish Midwife and The Amish Nanny. She is also the author of numerous novels, including Garden of Dreams, Beyond the Blue (winner of the Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice for Best Inspirational Novel, 2006), and Scrap Everything. She holds an MFA in creative writing from Portland State University and has taught fiction writing at Multnomah University as an adjunct professor.

For more on this author visit her website (here)

A retelling of the Taming of the Shrew! 

Leslie Gould is celebrating the release of Courting Cate with a fun Kindle Fire Giveaway and a Facebook Author Chat Party (11/20)!

One lucky winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• Courting Cate by Leslie Gould

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 19th. Winner will be announced at the "Courting Cate" Author Chat Facebook Party on 11/20. Connect with Leslie, get a sneak peek of her next book, try your hand at an Amish trivia contest, and chat with readers just like you. There will also be gift certificates, books and a Book Club Prize Pack to be won (10 copies for your book club or small group)!

So grab your copy of Courting Cate and join Leslie on the evening of the November 20th for a chance to connect with Leslie and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book - don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 20th!

I received this book free from LITFUSE as part of their blogger review program.

I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

The Christmas Pony by Melody Carlson, Book review

Publisher: Revell
ISBN-13: 978-0800719272

Synopsis:

With Christmas around the corner, the Turnbull family is in need of a few small miracles.
It is 1937, and Lucy Turnbull knows better than to wish for a pony this Christmas. Her mother has assured her in no uncertain terms that asking for a pony is the same as asking for the moon. Besides, the only extra mouths they need at their boarding house are the paying kind. Then an interesting pair of strangers comes to town, and Lucy's world changes forever.  

 The queen of the Christmas novel, Melody Carlson pens another magical tale of expectation and excitement as one little girl dreams big and the impossible becomes possible.

My thoughts:

Melody Carlson brings us yet again a touch of magic with 'The Christmas Pony'! The bestselling author of 'Christmas at Harrington's'  (a gift from my daughter last Christmas!) knows just how to touch our hearts and what better way to start this special Season but with a story of hope and love?!

This heartwarming tale of a little girl and her wishes for Christmas will leave you feeling full of hope, at least this is my wish for you this Season! 
Lucy is nothing but precocious and times are hard for a child growing up in Post Depression America. She knows the gift of a pony is simply not possible for her family but Mum and Grand Ma have the space at their little farm so if she can just talk the owner into the right terms Smoky could have a new home with them!

Pragmatic Mum tells Lucy she could use a few boarders to help with expenses so when Lucy meets two strangers in town in need of accommodation, she promptly invites them to their boarding house.
Life is taking an interesting turn for all of them when some prayers are answered whilst others fade away with reality.

This beautiful story is presented in a hardback, my favourite of course, and is truly a gift to share with others. 
Written by a wonderful storyteller 'The Christmas Pony' will remind you that prayers ARE answered and there is something magical about this Holy Season. 
Make it a story to be read out loud to your family and you will start a new tradition for your loved ones to remember forever!

What better way to start this blessed Season but with the spirit imbued in this story of hope?

5 Stars!!


About the Author:

Melody Carlson has written around 200 books for teens, women and children. That's a lot of books, but mostly she considers herself a "storyteller." Her books range from serious issues like schizophrenia (Finding Alice) to lighter topics like house-flipping (A Mile in My Flip-Flops) but most of the inspiration behind her fiction comes right out of real life. 

Her young adult novels (Diary of a Teenage Girl, TrueColors etc.) appeal to teenage girls around the world. Her annual Christmas novellas become more popular each year. She's won a number of awards (including the Rita and Gold Medallion) and some of her books have been optioned for film/TV.

For more on this author visit her website (here)

I received this book free from BAKER/REVELL as part of their blogger review program.

I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Jesus, A Theography by Leonard Sweet and Frank Viola, Book review

Publisher: Thomas Nelson
ISBN-13: 978-0849947025

Synopsis:

 

Jesus says, “The Scriptures point to me!” (John 5:39 NLT). But what does that mean exactly?

The twenty-seven books of the New Testament are largely a commentary on the Old Testament, and each part of the Bible is a signpost to Jesus. Once this is properly understood, everything changes, including our own identities. In this magisterial work you will discover a Jesus who is larger, more glorious, and more challenging than most of us have ever imagined.

Biographies of Jesus generally have been written by those trying to investigate the historical Jesus with little attention given to the grand narrative of Scripture. On the flip side, those interested in tracing the theology of Scripture are typically disinterested in historical Jesus studies. These two approaches have yet to converge...until now.

Jesus is written for the average reader as well as scholars. Leonard Sweet and Frank Viola (authors of Jesus Manifesto) unfold the greatest story ever told in a fresh and invigorating way. So whether you are a seasoned Christian, a new believer, or someone who is intrigued by Jesus, this book unveils the discoveries of a lifetime, transforming the tired and familiar way we have read the Bible into an electrifying journey of rediscovering Christ.

Introducing a new kind of Jesus biography.
In this compelling work, authors Leonard Sweet and Frank Viola reclaim the entire Bible as a gripping narrative about Jesus Christ.
Virtually every other “Jesus biography” begins with the nativity account in Bethlehem. In this groundbreaking book, Sweet and Viola begin before time, in the Triune God, and tell the complete interconnected story of Jesus from Genesis to Revelation.







crafting together one breathtaking saga that tells the Jesus story in both Old and New Testaments. This flagship book demonstrates clearly that every bit of Scripture is part of the same stunning drama, what the authors refer to as the theography of Jesus Christ.





Jesus: A Theography is the first book ever written to combine historical Jesus studies with biblical theology, crafting together one breathtaking saga that tells the Jesus story in both Old and New Testaments. This flagship book demonstrates clearly that every bit of Scripture is part of the same stunning drama, what the authors refer to as the theography of Jesus Christ.

Jesus: A Theography is the first book ever written to combine historical Jesus studies with biblical theology, crafting together one breathtaking saga that tells the Jesus story in both Old and New Testaments. This flagship book demonstrates clearly that every bit of Scripture is part of the same stunning drama, what the authors refer to as the theography of Jesus Christ.


My thoughts:

The introduction alone of 'Jesus: A Theography' is worth reading this compelling book but the notes section are in itself an entire library! My advice is don't rush the experience! This most intriguing look at Jesus begins before time itself and it truly opens a wider scope of who Jesus Christ really is.

Like a discovery voyage we see each chapter revealing dramatic details about Jesus and the Old and New Testament prophecies giving a whole new dimension to the Scriptures. The authors skillful knowledge of Hebrew and Greek gives a new insight to the texts yet are written with the average reader in mind as well as those more theologically inclined (I belong only to the first!).

As we near the Advent, I particularly enjoyed Mr. Sweet and Viola's description of the Manger scene where Joseph and his family took refuge on that very special night 2000 years ago...I'll credit these two gentlemen for giving me a better understanding of Jesus' birth!

Let me close by saying this is a wonderful rendition of a man's life we revere as the Messiah. You will be inspired by this theography and given a whole new perspective on who Jesus really is!

5 stars (as there is no higher rating but worth much, much more!) and an excellent gift for any believer!


About the Authors:

Leonard Sweet is the E. Stanley Jones Professor of Evangelism at Drew University (NJ), a Distinguished Visiting Professor at George Fox University (OR), and a weekly contributor to sermons.com and the podcast Napkin Scribbles. With some of the highest “influence” rankings of any religious figure in the worlds of social media (Twitter, Facebook), and a pioneer in on- line learning, he has authored numerous articles, sermons, and more than fifty books.

Frank Viola is a popular conference speaker and the best-selling author of numerous books on the deeper Christian life, including Epic Jesus, Revise Us Again, From Eternity to Here, and Jesus Manifesto (coauthored with Leonard Sweet). His blog Beyond Evangelical is rated as one of the most popular in Christian circles today. 

I received this book free from BOOKSNEEZE as part of their blogger review program.

I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising.

I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Remembrance

Remembrance Day...

At the Eleventh hour of the Eleventh Day of the Eleventh month of 1918 in Compiegne, France, Allied Forces and Germany ceased hostilities on the Western front of WW1...

Lest we forget...

For Arnold and Jean Louis, 
And today's heroes...John, Gunny, Richard, Mike, Tania, Joshua, Aaron and Limek and so many others...

Thank you for the gift of FREEDOM...

Note to readers: I have just been listening to Kyrie - The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace featured on Rachel's blog http://attica-slowlife.blogspot.com/

Breathtaking! Stop by to enjoy!

Soul's Gate by James L. Rubart, Book review & Giveaway

Publisher: Thomas Nelson
ISBN-13: 978-1401686055

Synopsis:


“Every now and then we get a break from reality. A glimpse into the other world that is more real than the reality we live in 99 percent of our days. The Bible is about a world of demons and angels and great evil and even greater glory.”


What if you could travel inside another person’s soul? To battle for them. To be part of Jesus healing their deepest wounds. To help set them free to step boldly into their divinely designed future.
Thirty years ago that’s exactly what Reece Roth did. Until tragedy shattered his life and ripped away his future.

Now God has drawn Reece out of the shadows to fulfill a prophecy spoken over him three decades ago. A prophecy about four warriors with the potential to change the world . . . if Reece will face his deepest regret and teach them what he has learned.

They gather at a secluded and mysterious ranch deep in the mountains of Colorado, where they will learn to see the spiritual world around them with stunning clarity—and how to step into the supernatural.


Their training is only the beginning. The four have a destiny to pursue a freedom even Reece doesn’t fully fathom. But they have an enemy hell-bent on destroying them and he’ll stop at nothing to keep them from their quest for true freedom and the coming battle of souls.

My thoughts:

Soul's Gate will have readers think deeply of their faith and their true understanding of the Bible's teachings.
Consider Ephesians 6-12: Paul teaches that in our lives we wrestle not against flesh and blood but against principalities, powers, rulers of darkness in this world and the spiritual weaknesses in high places.

Soul's Gate reveals that spiritual warfare is not only possible but very real for some! I'll gauge that for those readers who might wonder why life is so frustrating and at times near impossible, answers can be found here!

In book 1 of  ' A Well Spring' series James L. Rubart gives us an eloquent and often gripping story including a number of 'what if' situations.
This unique plot reveals four spiritual warriors: the song, the teacher, the leader and the temple. Together they rise up and fight for the hearts of others!

Now this is no Twilight stuff (sorry, no sparkly vampires!)! 
We follow the characters as they remind each other to accept the fact Jesus and the Holy Spirit most of them have followed throughout their lives is not one that will stay locked up in a westernized translation of Christianity.

 'If we believe there is a spiritual realm, it is time to master its secrets'
God said: I will give you treasures hidden in the darkness - secret riches'. 
And the following statement: 'People do not like to explore without all the lights on. 
And then food for thought: 'If you say you believe the Word of God, it is time to start acting like it.'

Soul's Gate is an intriguing inspirational journey into the real war of spiritual beings of angels and demons. As a warning, please consider the novel for older teens and mature readers as this is no fantasy!
Rubart clearly explains in his notes that he does not believe our spirits can travel into other souls as it is implied in the novel. The ideas however illustrates the possibility of this happening and of course a number of incidents featured are also true life experiences.

Excellent work from a Master Storyteller!
5 stars!!


About the Author:


James L. Rubart is a professional marketer, speaker, and writer. While being the owner of Barefoot Marketing certainly keeps him on his toes, his passion is writing fiction.

Rubart is an ECPA best-selling author who has been positively reviewed by both Publisher's Weekly and Romantic Times. His first novel, Rooms, won a Best Books 2011 award from USA Book News, as well as a Romantic Times Book Reviews Reviewers Choice Award. His debut release was followed by Book of Days and The Chair. Soul's Gate is Rubart's fourth release.

In addition to being an author, Rubart is also a photographer, guitarist, professional speaker, golfer and semi-pro magician. With all of this, he says that he barely sleeps. Visit his website (here).
Let me share however a few of his words:


'If you are curious... I love God, my wife, my sons, writing, speaking, playing guitar, and golf, in that order. And I dabble in photography.'

I like this author's priorities!

Link to buy this book: 
 
 http://ow.ly/eGyGA


To learn more about this Blog Tour schedule including read other reviews (see here)

The first book in best-selling author Jim Rubart's new series, Soul's Gate, released on 6th November 2012! To celebrate, Jim has teamed up with his publisher, Thomas Nelson, for a virtual book tour, iPad Mini giveaway and a Live Video Author Chat {11/13}. 

Watch the video trailer for the book here.

 

One "soulful" winner will receive:

• A brand new iPad Mini
• Soul's Gate by Jim Rubart {Be caught up in this captivating series.}

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 12th. Winner will be announced at the "Soul's Gate Author Chat Party on 11/13. Connect with Jim for an evening of book chat, trivia, and a live video chat! There will also be a chance to win gift certificates, books, and other fun prizes!

So grab your copy of Soul's Gate and join Jim on the evening of the November 13th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book - don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 13th!

I received this book free from LITFUSE as part of their blogger review program.

I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.