Perfect Peace In Imperfect Times by Dan Walsh, Ebook review

ISBN 0692402586

File size 455 KB

79 pages

Publisher: Bainbridge Press 16 March 2015

SYNOPSIS:

Dan Walsh, bestselling fiction author of novels like The Unfinished Gift and The Reunion, has penned his first non-fiction book. Perfect Peace is a 31-Day Devotional crafted from the pages of Dan's personal journal, written over the last several years. 

Here's an excerpt from Day 2: “If you’re like me, you’ve known moments of real peace. Moments when you’ve trusted God fully for your life, for everything going on in your life. In those moments, you knew real peace. The problem is, the word ‘moments.’ The moments didn’t last. The promise of Isaiah 26:3 is not to have moments of peace in our lives. The promise is that God would keep us in Perfect Peace.” 

In Perfect Peace, Dan shares the Scriptural life-lessons he's learned during some of the more challenging times in his life, hoping to encourage other Christians wrestling with things like stress, worry or fear.

My thoughts:

Dan Walsh continues to surprise me! Perfect Peace in Imperfect Times reflects the many challenges too often we experience in our daily life and definitively for this reader, hit the 'spot' more than once!

As a former pastor Dan knows something about humility and his encouragements go a long way to soothe when times are rough. Dipping in the Scriptures, he shares what he has learned in times of great difficulties and through this devotion shows us how to take challenges one day at a time (or one step at a time if you prefer). 
Reading through I found myself experiencing a calm much needed and thinking back throughout the day about his words helped me to remember I am not alone, God is always there. 

I urge you to give a try to this 31 day devotion and see what it can do for you as well. I myself will see the next few months challenges with a lighter heart thanks to Dan!

God bless,

5 Stars!!

Meet the Author:

From Dan's website:

Dan was born in Philadelphia in 1957 to a mostly blue-collar, hard-working Irish family. His father was the first person on either side of the family to earn a college degree. It took him 9 years, working during the day, going to college at night, using the GI Bill - 

As of this moment, Dan has 12 novels on the shelves. His 13th novel (the first to be published independently), is called When Night Comes. It releases November 1st. Novels #14 and #15 are finished and scheduled for release in April and September, 2015.

In addition to his writing, Dan also enjoys public speaking and is frequently invited to speak at writer’s conferences, either as a keynote speaker, or teaching workshops and seminars on a variety of writing topics.

A heartfelt thank you to Dan Walsh for the opportunity to review this latest offering! 

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this EBook courtesy of Dan Walsh as part of the book promotion. 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. 

Guess Who Won A Copy Of Cathy Bryant's A Bridge Unbroken?

Elizabeth Dent

May 21, 2014 at 2:31 PM

 Hey Cathy , love you interview . I would love to win a copy of your A Bridge Unbroken . Thank you fie  the chance . 

Congratulations Elizabeth! 

I will confirm your winning by email and let Cathy Bryant know how to contact you (She will be happy to send you the Ebook and hear how you like it!)

Many thanks to all those who entered and be sure to sure to follow Cathy's latest news on her website (HERE).

Didn't have an opportunity yet to read the review? Find the link (HERE)

A heartfelt thank you to Christian author Cathy Bryant for this generous giveaway and all the best to each of you!

The Return by Carter Vance, E-Book review

ASIN: B0072VTEU2

Amazon Digital Services, Inc.

Synopsis:

The Return is an action thriller that challenges us with the possibility that Jesus Christ is returning now. “The world currently in a state of upheaval and getting more chaotic everyday,” states Carter Vance, author of The Return. “Many of the prophesied signs of the end times are here, now, and are an indication of the possible return of Christ.”
What if the Knights Templar never disbanded and have amassed, over the centuries, virtually unlimited resources in anticipation of His return?
Aided by the manpower and financial, technological, and military resources of the Knights Templar, the parents and their unborn son face challenges from the most evil of the dark forces in society.
“The grail will be found in the thistles, but it’s not there./If you break it, victory is yours./Else, you battle the first son for 27 revolutions for the prize of a thousand years.”
Their nemesis races to solve this riddle for the prize, but where the answer lies is a mystery to him and his minions. Always aware and on the move, the First Family never rests until the ultimate battle is waged with fleets of the most advanced vehicles and armaments known to man. Who will be left when the battle ends and who will know it ever happened? 

 
My thoughts:

Such a descriptive plot line merited another look for an avid reader of End Time scenarios such as myself but let me first say this is purely fictional work and is by no means, based on solid facts or even any 'extensive knowledge of prophecies, religions, relics and the esoteric' as stated by the author. 
I found The Return (E book version) to be however fast paced and to some extent, interesting.

Carter Vance claims knowledge of prophecies but fails to include any biblical references for a student of the Word as myself for i.e. and so I was wary of any validation. 
It is believed that when Christ returns it will be as John describes in Revelation 1 Verse 7 (NIV):

 “Look, He is coming with the clouds,”
    and “every eye will see Him,
even those who pierced Him”;
    and all peoples on earth “will mourn because of Him.”
So shall it be! Amen.

I saw also no mentions of the Rapture of the Church or Armageddon, bringing to question the final battle of Good over Evil is perhaps held for the next installment?
And unlike similar works by other authors, characters are not guaranteed any particular longevity as they come and go at a remarkable speed!

Regretfully, I must also admit to feel some distraction due to a large amount of typos and missing words. 
That said, the Knights Templar are always of interest to the masses and thus provided in part some entertainment, which was after all the object of my reading the book.
Carter Vance's reminder that anyone can be seduced by the darker forces of our planet is also to be noted!

3 (generous) Stars, mostly due to the action!

(Source)

About the Author:

(Bio) 
Carter Vance is a financial executive who has extensive knowledge of prophecies, religions, relics, and the esoteric.
Drawing from actual rare, ancient, secret prophetic records in his possession, and the work of his staff astrologer, Carter has written his debut novel, The Return. The story is a spellbinding account of how the prophecies may be fulfilled in the return of Christ to our modern day world.

Visit his website for further information (HERE)

I received this E book free from the Author himself. 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. 

A Christmas Homecoming by MaryAnn Diorio, Book review & Giveaway

Publisher: Pelican Ventures Book Group-Harbourlight Books
ASIN: B00A0VFNPQ

Synopsis:

Seven Christmases have passed since Sonia Pettit last heard from her daughter Jody. Since Jody's departure, Sonia's world has been turned upside down. Her husband has died of a broken heart, and her son, bitter over his sister's destructive actions, has become rebellious.

Her greatest desire is to have her family together at Christmas, but after what Jody has put them all through, can Sonia truly forgive her daughter?

Jody Pettit O'Dair ran away to experience a life of adventure and excitement, but since her departure, her world has been turned upside down. She's been abandoned by the man she met and married, lost her job, and is unable to care for her two children. With nowhere else to turn, this prodigal daughter begins the long journey home and prays she will be welcomed after walking away so long ago.

Will Jody find forgiveness in the arms of her family as easily as she received it from God?

My thoughts:

An E-book is still something of a novelty to me and not my first choice but in this case I was more than willing to make an exception. I borrowed my son's reader to enjoy this Christmas story to its fullest.
'A Christmas Homecoming' is a short story to be sure but with a lot of punch! 
As I read it I wondered at the plot and found myself in many ways reacting to one part or another. In fact I shared this story already with others starting with my husband, my daughter and so on...It was not just another Christmas story. A Christmas Homecoming has many messages and guaranteed to make readers reflect how each and everyone of us would react.

Consider Mum who not only lost her partner and has no knowledge of the whereabouts of her precious daughter. Then there is the brother who from an easy going youth turned overnight into a resentful adult bent on his own destruction.
Let's not forget the prodigal daughter faced with abandonment, single parenthood of not one child, but two and the loss of her only income since she lost her job. 
Jody is 10,000 miles away from home and the 25 hours + of her journey home with two children in tow, a backpack and a tote as her only belongings are daunting enough for this reader! Facing her family after so many years of estrangement is nothing short of nerve wracking.

The messages however are simple and yet so beautiful to uncover. Each of the protagonists have a lesson to learn. Faith is all that keeps them from unraveling and here Dr. Diorio excels, never pushing, allowing readers to savour and as we soon discover, letting God take charge allows each to remember how much they love each other.

A Christmas Homecoming is the sort of story we need to read at this time of the year. Like myself you might ponder how you would react in the same circumstances. You might just as humbly as myself discover you still have much to learn! In the end Faith is the only cure for whatever ails us.

I could not find anything I did not like in this story and almost wished it was even longer. I will therefore enjoy reading it again and tuck it on my shelves for the next Holiday Season...A tradition maybe?

5 stars for a meaningful story perfect for this Blessed Season!

About the Author:

Dr. MaryAnn Diorio loves God, people, children, and dogs, in that order. She also is passionate about story and its power to transform the human heart. Dr. MaryAnn, as she is affectionately called, writes compelling fiction that deals with the deepest issues of life. She is Adjunct Online Professor of Fiction Writing for Regent University and coaches writers on their journey to publication.

For more on this author check out her website (HERE) 

BLOG TOUR SCHEDULE FOR ADDITIONAL REVIEWS (HERE)

Grab a copy of MaryAnn Diorio's "A Christmas Homecoming" for JUST .99! 

MaryAnn is celebrating by giving away a Paperwhite Kindle! 
Details below!

One "merry" winner will receive:

• A Paperwhite Kindle
• A Christmas Homecoming by MaryAnn Diorio

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on December 22nd. Winner will be announced on 12/23/12 at MaryAnn's Blog.

Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning.

 

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.

A Hero For Holly by Kristy K. James, E-Book review

(Available on 30 July 2012 - See author's page below for more information)

Synopsis:

Single mom, Holly McGinty, has no life.  No personal life, that is.  After her husband left her pregnant, with a four-year old son, there was never much time for her.  Between raising two boys and saving her restaurant from bankruptcy, she’s been too busy taking care of everyone and everything to give much thought to her own needs.   In fact, the highlight of her week is swooning over her oldest son’s sexy scout leader.

Sam Jensen never believed in love at first sight…until the first time he saw Holly.  But even though he gets along great with kids, and is successful as both an architect and investor, figuring out relationships with women has never come easy to him.  Now it seems as though his luck has changed.  As long as one little tiny secret remains a secret.

My thoughts:

Kristy K. James is a Christian author from whom you can expect a great book and after reading ENZA, I knew I was in for a treat! 

I know I have said it before, I prefer a good hard copy in my hands but given the opportunity to review an E-book version only, I set aside my apprehension. She is just too good to miss!

So what exactly sets out 'A Hero For Holly' and why do I recommend reading it?  

Kristy's magic touch! I am a dreamer as you well know it and I love to see things turning out for the better for everyone betwixt the pages of a book. After all, when reading a trade book (versus a textbook which is not always so pleasant), you wish to immerse yourself in another dimension, seeing and believing the best in everything. 

Then there is the fact that Sam is a Scout Master who loves kids of course and it brings back a few memories...(Just ask hubby!)

Such is the story behind 'A Hero For Holly'. Holly and Sam have stars in their eyes but of course there are a few challenges along the way for you to discover, a sure inducement for you to turn page after page, sometimes bringing a tear or two, sometimes making you chuckle...

Somehow I do not think you will guess Sam's little tiny secret!

When an author can actually make you feel so alive that you feel tingling in your fingertips (or toes!),, you know you have something good in your hands (I almost forgot...in front of you as in a Mobipocket  Reader!).

Once again, Kristy K. James has a way to make you believe in 'living happily ever after'. You will find good families values in this romance and do not have to fear loaning your copy to any young adult!

I give it 4 stars!

About the Author:

'Kristy K. James' first goal in life was to work in law enforcement, until the night she called the police to check out a scary noise in her yard. Realizing that she might someday have to check out scary noises in other dark yards if she continued on that path, she turned to her other favorite love...writing. 

Since then her days have been filled with being a mom and reluctant zookeeper (7 pets), creating stories and looking for trouble in her kitchen.'

For more on this author and 'A Hero For Holly' go to her website (here).

I received this E-book free courtesy of LIGHTNING BOOK PROMOTIONS 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 Forgiven Duke by Jamie Carie, Blog Tour and Giveaway News

As part of Bookshelf Confessions Blog Tour for Jamie Carie's 'The Forgiven Duke', here is the latest scoop on this lively author and her Book # 2 in her series 'The Forgotten Castles'!

Readers might remember this book review but I am always happy to spread good news!

Jamie Carie is dreaming of breaking into the Top Kindle 100!!

Additionally I am told her first book 'The Guardian Duke' (see my review here) E-book is now sold in Amazon, CBD and Barnes & Noble.  

Congratulations Jamie and God speed!!

Publisher: B&H Books 

Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1433673231

Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.

Synopsis:

Tethered by her impulsive promise to marry Lord John Lemon - the path of least resistance - Alexandria Featherstone sets off toward Iceland in search of her parents with a leaden heart. A glimpse of her guardian, the Duke of St. Easton - the path less traveled by - on Dublin’s shore still haunts her.

Will he come after her? Will he drag her back to London, quelling her mission to rescue her treasure-seeking parents, or might he decide to throw caution to the wind and choose Foy Pour Devoir: “Faith for Duty,” the St. Easton motto. The Featherstone motto Valens et Volens: “Willing and Able,” beats in her heart and thrums through her veins. She will find her parents and find their love, no matter the cost.

The powerful yet wing-clipped Duke of St. Easton has never known the challenge that has become his life since hearing his ward’s name. Alexandria Featherstone will be the life or the death of him. Only time and God’s plan will reveal just how much this man can endure for the prize of love.

My thoughts about Jamie Carie's 2nd book in the 'Forgotten Castles' series:

'The Guardian Duke' by Romance Novelist Jamie Carie was a treat and once again this latest adventure of Alexandra Featherstone and her guardian Duke appeals to our romantic side giving us a delightful opportunity to escape from the doldrums of life. 
By now,  you guessed it, Jamie Carie has many followers! Dreamers, all of us!

Jamie Carie's vivid imagination had led her to create interesting plots full of lively and colourful situations which leaves you... just wanting a little more! It matters little that this novel ends with (unanswered) questions to be pursued in the next installment, this time called 'A Duke's Promise'! 

All will be revealed in due course!

The Forgiven Duke is a warm lighthearted tale with many endearing characters, locals that will fire your own imagination and a plot with all the right ingredients: love, hope, faith aplenty, intrigue and the unsavoury side of the great powers who ruled the high seas and our world in the Nineteenth Century!

Finally it is a story to enjoy just knowing our fair protagonists are in God's hands and in this case His plan reveals how much a man such as Gabriel will do when in love!
As for Alex, you will feel wishing to have her determination in her quest despite the many pitfalls she encounters!

'The Forgiven Duke' is Book 2 of 'A Forgotten Castles' series and the sequel to 'The Guardian Duke'.

About the Author:

Jamie Carie has a knack for weaving interesting plots and warm characters allowing you to escape from daily drudgery! 

'Jamie Carie is also the author of Snow Angel, a ForeWord magazine Romance Book of the Year winner, USA Book News National “Best Books 2007” Awards winner, and 2008 RITA Awards® Best First Book finalist. Her third novel, Wind Dancer, was a 2010 Indiana State Library Best Books of Indiana finalist.'

She writes the sort of Christian fiction that allows you to believe there are still dreams to be lived! And what would be life without dreams?!

Visit her website (here) 

And now for news of the GIVEAWAY!

BOOKSHELF CONFESSIONS has a GIVEAWAY running until 5 August 2012!

Winner will received a signed paperback copy of The Guardian Duke and The Forgiven Duke (Forgotten Castles # 1, #2)!

Be sure to enter for your chance to win these two titles (here)

Note to Readers: This post is part of a blog tour sponsored by Bookshelf Confessions (see here for upcoming events) and reflects only my opinion and support of another blogger!

 

Backyard Horse Tales by Jackie Easton, Book review

Synopsis:

Born with a brave heart and an in your face attitude, Sox was also born with a leg that was not quite right. His courage and complete disregard for his handicap inspire his little friend Emma.

Young Emma Struggles with a learning disability. This lonely child befriends Sox and an unbreakable bond is formed. 

Readers share in Sox's adventures, his friends, and his challenges. Sox is a heart-warming tale for every child who has ever dreamed of a special horse, and for anyone who has loved an equine partner.

My thoughts:

Through a Quarterhorse's view of our busy world and the heartwarming diary of a young girl named Emma with a learning disability, we discover the story of Sox. 

Sox is a horse born with, you guessed it, socks on his hind legs!

Told with a knowledgeable equine insight, you cannot fail to recognize this author's love for horses!  Jackie Anton after all has many years of experience and like every horse owner she has a few anecdotes I am certain that will have you chuckle! Every herd has its clown as I well recall!

'Backyard Horse Tales' is a warm heart story anyone, young and not so young, will fall in love with! There is a magnetism about these beautiful creatures which makes any youngster dream of befriending a favourite steed! 

Anyone who has seen a wild herd running will attest to God's amazing creation!

In this 2nd edition of 'Backyard Horse Tales' we follow Sox as he discovers his surroundings and forges a special friendship with Emma. Through his colt's eyes we see there is much more to live in a stable that eating and exercising. And not everything is as he wishes...

Emma's diary leads us to understand their very special relationship as Sox grows from a foal to a colt and eventually a gelding. As time goes by, both horse and child have much to learn and share with the other. Growing up is not always easy...

Despite the odds, both Sox and Emma dare to be different and eventually overcome their challenges!

There has been countless stories written about horses and their human friends but I found this one absolutely endearing! 

An excellent gift, it is certain to become a favourite book for parents and grandparents to share with any youngster 8 years old and up. The unfolding story and its ultimate message will be treasured for years to come!

I give it 4 stars!

About the Author:

'Jackie Anton was born in Michigan, and much of her first five years were spent there. Most of her remaining years she called Ohio home. By the time she reached high school the author had been enrolled in thirty-two schools from the Great Lakes to the Panhandle of Texas.

As a mother, horse trainer and showman, youth adviser, and horse show judge her travels continued. Visiting new locations, and meeting new people is something she still enjoys. Her travels are reflected in her writing. Backyard Horse Tales documents some of those travels from an equine point of view.'

For more on Jackie visit her website (here).

As part of this blog tour I would like to invite readers to check additional reviews - see below

Paula @ Book Lover Stop

Ruth @ The Devotional Thoughts

Elemillia @ Book Reviews, Fiction Reflectons, N’ More

Tom @ Tom Mach’s Blog

Morgen @ Morgen Bailey’s Writing Blog

Nicole @ Pretty Opinionated

Karen @ Writing From the Right Side of the Stall

Jacinta @ Thrice the Mischief, 3 times the love

Nanette @ Horse Sense and Cents

I received this E-book free from LIGHTNING BOOK PROMOTIONS 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.