The Famine of the Human Dream Celebrate Lit Tour & Giveaway

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

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Thank you for visiting my stop on The Famine of the Human Dream Celebrate Book tour and Giveaway.  Be sure to enter to win the $50 Amazon gift card.  You could buy a lot of books with that!  Now, let’s talk about this book…

My Thoughts:

Author Benjamin Mester has produced a book of Christian poems and  essays in his “The Famine of the Human Dream.”  This book is filled with inspiring short works by the author and Christian authors that were both known and unknown to me.

The first portion of this book contains essays written by Mester.  They are well written and leave readers pondering things.  He writes about the world, nature, disappointment, romance, beauty, and being human.  His essays are thought provoking and need to be read slowly so that the words sink in.  They are personal and he writes with transparency.

The middle section holds Mester’s poetry and the final section holds selections from other authors.  The wide variety of topics here should allow something for everyone.  One of my favorites was “Into My Own” by Robert Frost.  The author’s short poem “Isle of Peace” touched me.  It was beautiful.

Teasdale, Moore, Frost, Yeats, and CS Lewis all have works in this compilation along with some others.  This is a book to keep close and pick up when you need a little encouragement.  It definitely is not one to read and forget.  It needs revisiting like a trusted friend.

Scripture and biblical references are heavy in this unique book. I was not able to sit down and read it at one time.  I needed to savor it and soak in its words.  Some pieces stirred me while others did nothing, but that is the beauty of poetry and essays.  My one criticism is that while the cover goes with the title, I did not like it at all.  I wish the author would consider replacing it.

I highly recommend this to all people that enjoy essays and poetry.  It lifted my soul and warmed my heart.  I would recommend for a pick me up gift or recovery gift for someone ill.  It is beautiful (except for the cover).

I rated this 5 out of 5 stars.  A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but I was under no obligation to provide a review.  These are my own thoughts.

 

About the Book

Book: This Famine of the Human Dream

Author: Benjamin Mester

Genre: Christian Inspiration; Essays and Poems

Release date: May, 2015

faminine of the human dream coverAn uplifting and thought provoking look at life from a poet’s perspective. The Famine of the Human Dream will challenge you to live with greater passion, to throw off those trifling ambitions that ever grope for our attention, and learn fight for things worth fighting for. The great theologian, CS Lewis, once said:

“It would seem that Our Lord finds our desires not too strong, but too weak. We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased.”

The ultimate goal of life isn’t a search for happiness. The ultimate goal of life is learning how to fight for things worth fighting for. All of life is a battle. But the battle that defines each one of us isn’t primarily between right and wrong, as you would think. Rather, it’s something much more surprising. Find out what in the inspiring pages of The Famine of the Human Dream.

Click here to purchase your copy.

About the Author

Ben MesterBenjamin Mester is an author and poet, with a passion for seeing people break away from small and shallow living and to step into the full measure of what the Lord has prepared for them. The destiny prepared for each one of us is to live a life of love and deep gladness. Benjamin Mester was born and raised in sunny San Diego, but can often be found wandering the woods of northern Minnesota, pen and paper in hand. His lifetime goal is to one day build a house in the woods, expanding it over time into a retreat center for authors, artists and others bursting with creativity. God is the most creative being in the entire universe, and as children made in His image, Mester hopes to inspire His people to explore the wonderful gift of creativity placed in each one of us.

More from Benjamin

The Famine of the Human dream was written as a response to something…a quote from a great theologian, CS Lewis.
It would seem that Our Lord finds our desires not too strong, but too weak. We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased.
When I read that, my heart began to burn. For though, as a younger man, I had often felt a passionate stirring to live my life to the full, though I didn’t quite know how and always felt myself slipping back into the mundane of mere survival. And so, I voraciously began to explore the many facets of life. I studied art, poetry, philosophy, beauty, and theology, prompted by Solomon’s declaration in the Proverbs, Whatever else you get, get understanding! I desperately wanted understanding of a very particular sort. I wanted to understand how to live my life to the full…this precious, brief slice of life we so often take for granted. I wanted true wisdom.
Contained within the pages of the Famine of the Human Dream are a poet’s reflections on life and the struggle to suck the marrow out of life, as Thoreau put it. This book is also an attempt to give the reader a passion for the study of poetry, which has dwindled much in modern society. The second portion of the book is a collection of my own poetry and poetry from other lovers of life that has touched me deeply. My biggest hope is that the reader will come away from this book with a renewed passion for life and an eager desire to dive deeper into poetry, beauty, and the heart of the Father.

Giveaway

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To celebrate his tour, Ben is giving away a $50 Amazon gift card!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter. https://promosimple.com/ps/e515/the-famine-of-the-human-dream-celebration-tour-giveaway

 

 

The Amish Widow’s Rescue Celebrate Lit Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Today my blog is a stop on “The Amish Widow’s Rescue” book tour by Celebrate Lit.  This is a Christian Amish fiction by author Rachel J. Good.  Read all about it, the author, the other stops, and the generous giveaway.  Wish I could win it!

My Thoughts

This is a Christian Amish romance by author Rachel J. Good.  It is Book 3 in her Love and Promises series but can easily be read as a stand alone.  The author knows her way around an Amish story, and this one drew me in quickly.

I enjoy Ms. Good’s style of writing.  The vivid descriptions of Amish Country and Pennsylvania Dutch language make me feel as though I am in Amish Country visiting with friends.  Apparently that is where the author compiles information and story ideas.

Conversation is plentiful and flows without a hitch in her latest book.  I love learning a new Amish word or two.  In this book the Amish District was more lenient or progressive than in other Amish novels I have read.  However, I have also read each district is unique.

The characters are well rounded and very relatable.  They are easy to like and engage with early on in the book.  Many times my heart hurt for a person or situation.  The children are show stealers in this.

This is the story of Grace.  She is a pregnant mother of two with a jam business and recently widowed.  Immediately I wanted to hug her and help.  It is also the tale of Elijah, her extremely handsome, helpful, generous neighbor who has built a wall around his heart.  Oh, Elijah!  My heart went out to him, too.

The author has been an exceptional job tugging on heartstrings and allowing readers to become emotionally involved in her story.  It has some twist and turns, inspiration, life lessons on trusting a God, hope, and letting go of the past.  The book deals with the death of a parent with children.  They each deal with it differently and tears rolled as I read.  They also were regular children so  I chuckled in a few places, too.

I would recommend this to anyone that likes Amish fiction or would like to give it a try.  The book moves along at a nice even pace without dragging.  I sat down to read a little bit and that was it!  I read it all.

A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but I was under no obligation to write a review.  These are my own, honest thoughts.  I rate this a 4 out of 5 stars.

About the Book

Book: The Amish Widow’s Rescue

Author: Rachel J Good

Genre: Amish Romance

Release Date: May 28, 2019

The Amish Widows Rescue CoverThe perfect family awaits…if only he’ll risk his heart.

Pregnant and recently widowed, Grace Fisher is determined to provide for her family on her own. Thankfully, her jam business is popular in her Amish community. But it’s difficult keeping up with her work, her farm chores, and her two mischievous children. Especially now that they’ve taken to idolizing their neighbor Elijah. While the handsome farmer is kind and generous, he seems intent on holding Grace and her little ones at a distance…

Elijah Beiler has always admired his neighbor Grace. So standing by while she struggles to support her family isn’t an option. Offering to take over her farm duties, Elijah is determined to help while remaining detached. He knows all too well that love only leads to heartbreak. Yet the more time he spends with Grace and her children, the harder he finds it to leave each day. But can Elijah overcome past hurts and open his heart to this ready-made family?

“A beautiful story of forgiveness and second chances.” -Shelley Shepard Gray, New York Timesbestselling author, on The Amish Teacher’s Gift

Click here to purchase your copy.

About the Author

rachel goodInspirational author Rachel J. Good writes life-changing, heart-tugging novels of faith, hope, and forgiveness. The bestselling author of several Amish romance series, she grew up near Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, the setting for many of her stories. Striving to be as authentic as possible, she spends time with her Amish friends, doing chores on their farms and attending family events. Rachel has more than 40 books in print or forthcoming for both children and adults under several pen names. Find out more about Rachel and her books at her website and by signing up for her newsletter.

Rachel’s Amish series include Sisters & Friends (Charisma House & Harlequin), Love & Promises (Hachette/Grand Central), Hearts of Amish Country (Annie’s Book Club), and the forthcoming Unexpected Amish Blessings and Surprised by Love series (Kensington). She also has several anthologies in print as well as the Amish Quilts Coloring Book.

More from Rachel

The story idea for The Amish Widow’s Secret came to me after I’d just finished reading stories to my Amish friend’s children to give her a little break. She was expecting a new baby, and while we sat in their kitchen enjoying a snack, her husband came in.

The tenderness in his eyes as they talked made my eyes well with tears. It was obvious how much they loved each other, and they both supported each other. A perfect companionship. Not everyone gets to experience that bond, that caring.

It made me wonder what she’d do without him, and the seeds of a story was born. I decided to explore how a widow would cope with a pregnancy and two children alone. In the Amish community, of course, no one is ever left on their own. Everyone chips in to help.

So, what if the handsome and reclusive bachelor next door felt obligated to help, but wanted to avoid getting involved? Would he eventually soften his heart toward children and love?

As I wrote, I wondered if Elijah Beiler could get over a previous heartbreak. He needed to face his past before he moved forward, so I gave him that opportunity. A surprise visit and unwelcome news force Elijah to rethink everything he believes about parenting and love. And about the person who destroyed his world. He also needs to face the bitterness he’s been harboring.

Sometimes learning more about the circumstances or reasons of the person who has hurt us causes us to see the whole situation in a new light, making it easier to let go of the hurt. That’s what happens to Elijah.

I hope his journey will encourage readers to consider the places in their lives where they’ve been holding onto pain and reevaluate those experiences in the light of God’s forgiveness and love. To write this story, I needed to do that too.

Blog Stops

Quiet Quilter, May 28

A Reader’s Brain, May 28

Maureen’s Musings, May 29

Through the Lens of Scripture, May 29

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 29

Among the Reads, May 30

The Avid Reader, May 30

janicesbookreviews, May 30

Emily Yager, May 31

Lighthouse Academy, May 31

Bigreadersite, June 1

THE BECCA FILES, June 1

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, June 1

Carla Loves To Read, June 2

Random Thoughts From a Bookworm, June 2

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, June 3

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, June 3

Vicky Sluiter, June 3

For Him and My Family, June 4

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, June 4

Inspiration Clothesline, June 4

Miss Tina’s Amish Book Review, June 5

For the Love of Literature, June 5

Jeanette’s Thoughts, June 6

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 6

Retrospective Spines, June 7

Locks, Hooks and Books, June 7

Mary Hake, June 8

Inklings and notions, June 8

Pause for Tales, June 8

EmpowerMoms, June 9

Texas Book-aholic, June 9

Genesis 5020, June 10

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, June 10

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Rachel is giving away a grand prize of autographed copies of The Amish Midwife’s Secret and Big-City Amish, a copy of an Amish cookbook, and an authentic Amish headscarf!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter. https://promosimple.com/ps/e2ab/the-amish-widow-s-rescue-celebration-tour-giveaway

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Pam Hillman’s The Crossing at Cypress Creek, Natchez Trace Series

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My thoughts

Pam Hillman is a natural at storytelling.  She has a way of weaving a tale that captures my interest within the first few pages and keeps it until the end of the book.  This series is a tribute to her extraordinary talent.  Each book was better than the last.

I felt like I had been whisked away to the eighteenth century.  She had done her research and it was evident.  The scenery, attire, colloquiums, and characters all added to a complete authentic experience when reading this captivating tale.

“The Crossing at Cyprus Creek is Book 3, but it could be read as a stand alone.  Be warned it is so engaging that you will want to read the first two after finishing it.  Why not read them in order if you haven’t?

I found the characters to be well rounded and very realistic.  So much so my heart and emotions often went out to some of the characters, while others just made me want to yell at them.  They have good character traits, flaws, and some downright meanness in them.

This is the story of Caleb O’Shea, who returns home from being at sea for months.  He finds things quite different than when he left.  It is also the tale of Alanah Adams. As an herbalist she is a healer and knows how to identify various medicinal plants and herbs, where to find them, and how to use the.  She is a fascinating lady and I enjoyed her immensely.

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Pam Hillman has written a Christian sweet historical romance with adventure and intrigue.  Danger lurks, emotions are high, and God is to be sought and obeyed in this gritty Southern novel.   Themes of faith, forgiveness, trusting God’s plan for one’s life, chivalry, love, and home are all woven deftly throughout this magnificent book.  With some twists and turns added to exquisite writing, the story had a nice steady pace with no sluggish parts.  It is a complete and total page turner.

I highly recommend this book and series.  It is definitely worth it.  I learned things, it was God glorifying, and I had a hard time putting it down.  There are discussion questions at the end so get a group together to read the series.  There is so much to dissect and disIt gets a 5 out of 5 stars from me.

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About the Books

The Crossing at Cyprus Creek, Book 3

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Sailing and soldiering around the world has taken Caleb O’Shea far from his native Ireland, so he never imagined that a promise to see a fellow crewman safely home would practically land him on his brother’s doorstep. After spending years away from his family, Caleb isn’t certain what kind of reception he will receive when he steps foot in Natchez, Mississippi. The one thing he knows for sure is that he won’t stay long.

Since her sister was kidnapped by river pirates six months ago, Alanah Adams has taken special care to avoid drawing attention to herself. Those living in the rough-and-tumble settlement of Cypress Creek might even think she’s addled. But when she stumbles into Caleb and his friends in Natchez, she appears to be the picture-perfect lady.

Caleb only catches glimpses of the mysterious and beautiful Alanah before she disappears. But a chance encounter with her at his brother’s logging camp near Cypress Creek leaves him uncomfortable at the thought of the young woman traversing the dangerous area alone. At a crossroads in his life, Caleb must decide whether he wants to give up the worldly adventures he’s been seeking for one closer to home.

The Promise of Breeze Hill, Book 1

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Natchez, MS; 1791
Anxious for his brothers to join him on the rugged frontier along the Mississippi River, Connor O’Shea has no choice but to indenture himself as a carpenter in exchange for their passage from Ireland. But when he’s sold to Isabella Bartholomew of Breeze Hill Plantation, Connor fears he’ll repeat past mistakes and vows not to be tempted by the lovely lady.

The responsibilities of running Breeze Hill have fallen on Isabella’s shoulders after her brother was found dead in the swamps along the Natchez Trace and a suspicious fire devastated their crops, almost destroyed their home, and left her father seriously injured. Even with Connor’s help, Isabella fears she’ll lose her family’s plantation. Despite her growing feelings for the handsome Irish carpenter, she seriously considers accepting her wealthy and influential neighbor’s proposal of marriage.

Soon, though, Connor realizes someone is out to eliminate the Bartholomew family. Can he set aside his own feelings to keep Isabella safe?

The Road to Magnolia Glen, Book 2

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1792, Natchez Trace, MS
Bitter since his eldest brother abandoned their family in Ireland, Quinn O’Shea travels to Natchez, Mississippi, ready to shuck the weight of his duty and set off on an adventure of his own. It’s time Connor, as head of the family, took responsibility for their younger siblings. While aboard ship, a run-in with three Irish sisters lands Quinn in the role of reluctant savior. Though it may delay his plans, he cannot abandon the Young sisters, especially the tenacious yet kind Kiera.

Upon arriving in the colonies, Kiera Young prepares to meet her intended and begin her new life. But she soon discovers the marriage her brother-in-law arranged was never meant to be, and a far more sinister deal was negotiated for her and her sisters.

Quinn offers to escort his charges safely to Breeze Hill Plantation and his brother’s care, fully intending to seek his freedom elsewhere. But the longer he remains, the greater his feelings toward Kiera grow and the more he comes to realize true freedom might be found in sacrifice.

About the Author

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CBA Bestselling author PAM HILLMAN was born and raised on a dairy farm in Mississippi and spent her teenage years perched on the seat of a tractor raking hay. In those days, her daddy couldn’t afford two cab tractors with air conditioning and a radio, so Pam drove an Allis Chalmers 110. Even when her daddy asked her if she wanted to bale hay, she told him she didn’t mind raking. Raking hay doesn’t take much thought so Pam spent her time working on her tan and making up stories in her head.

 

Celebrate Dad today!

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Troday is Father’s Day.  A day to celebrate fathers and all they do.  We should do this everyday!  Dads give everyday to us.  At least mine does.IMG_3806  I treasure and adore him.

I am one lucky girl to have the amazing dad that I do.  He is compassionate, intelligent, loving, faithful, generous, respected, and so much more than words could ever describe.  A giant in faith he is a true son of God.  Best of all, he came into our lives about a decade after my daddy was called home to be with the Lord.  Dad voluntarily stepped into the role of “Dad” for me and my sister whole-heartedly.  

God, our Heavenly Father, is so good and knows what we need, when we need it.  He put Dad in our lives to help heal that broken spot that was ripped open when Daddy died.  Dad has been a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and grandfather.  God used a bad situation for good.  I am forever grateful.  

IMG_2286Sure there are times I still miss my Daddy.  All girls need their daddies.  I was just twelve years old.
I also miss both of my grandfathers, too.  My paternal grandfather, Granddaddy, and I were particularly close. I was the first born on that side, and yes, spoiled rotten.  Today isn’t about tears and missing them.  It is about the good memories of the time we had together.  The promise of seeing them again in Heaven.  It is a time to be thankful.
So, I am.  Thankful for all of the men in my family.  For the grandfathers, fathers, my hubby, uncles, son, son-in-law, brother, brother-in-law, nephews, and cousins.  You are appreciated and loved even though you may not hear the words.
Happy Father’s Day especially to you, Dad!  I love you and am grateful you are in my life.  To the other patriarch in our family, Uncle Gale, ditto to you!  To my husband, son, and son-in-law, thank you for taking care of me and our family.  I am blessed to have Christian men leading my family.
 Father’s Day should be a day to rejoice, appreciate, be glad, and love.  Enjoy your day!  Don’t forget to spend time with our Heavenly Father, too.   Tell Him how much you appreciate Him.   After all, He is the perfect Father.

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On a Summer Tide by Suzanne Woods Fisher Celebrate Lit Book Tour

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Thank you for joining the book tour for On a Summer Tide by Suzanne Woods Fisher.  The author has included a recipe for readers and there is a giveaway to enter.  I hope you enjoy reading about this fantastic book and author and don’t forget to enter to win!

My Thoughts

Suzanne Woods Fisher is a masterful storyteller regardless of the genre she writes.  On a Summer Tide is a Christian contemporary romance that begins a new series.  It is a book about family, especially sisters.  Anyone with a sister knows that relationship is like no other.  It is about hope, reconciliation, forgiveness, and honesty.  This is a captivating, inspiring Christian fiction that is extraordinarily beautiful.

Ms. Fisher has a unique writing style.  All of her character have personalities and stay true to them throughout the book.  There is no flip flopping.  Her storyline has been well researched and is authentic in every way – from surroundings to people to language.  I felt as though I opened the book and stepped onto a small Maine island with a new family.

With her superior writing, the author had me invested immediately.  The characters felt realistic and soon began transferring their feelings to me.  They were are easy to engage with and the pages flew by.

There is a lot of baggage that each sister carries and my heart went out to them.  Their father was adorable.  The Christian message was touching and true to life.  This is a book that grabs readers with its genuineness.  It gives many things to ponder after reading it.

The romance is sweet but light.  It’s there, but it isn’t a major part.  This is more of a family relationship book.  I loved it!

I highly recommend this to anyone that enjoys contemporary fiction.  Author Fisher has a mesmerizing way of tell a tale.  This one was so hard to put down until I had finished it.  I rated it 5 out of 5 stars.  A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but I was under no obligation to provide a review.  These are my own, honest thoughts.

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About the Book

Book: On a Summer Tide

Author: Suzanne Woods Fisher

Genre: Christian Fiction Romance

Release Date: April 30, 2019

On a Summer Tide CoverSometimes love hurts—and sometimes it can heal in the most unexpected way.

Camden Grayson loves her challenging career, but the rest of her life could use some improvement. “Moving on” is Cam’s mantra. But there’s a difference, her two sisters insist, between one who moves on . . . and one who keeps moving.

Cam’s full-throttle life skids to a stop when her father buys a remote island off the coast of Maine. Paul Grayson has a dream to breathe new life into the island—a dream that includes reuniting his estranged daughters. Certain Dad has lost his mind, the three sisters rush to the island. To Cam’s surprise, the slow pace of island life appeals to her, along with the locals—and one in particular. Seth Walker, the scruffy island schoolteacher harbors more than a few surprises.

With On a Summer Tide, bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher begins a brand-new contemporary romance series that is sure to delight her fans and draw new ones.

Click here to purchase your copy.

About the Author

suzanne woods fisherSuzanne Woods Fisher is an award-winning, bestselling author of more than thirty books, including Mending Fences, as well as the Nantucket Legacy, Amish Beginnings, The Bishop’s Family, and The Inn at Eagle Hill series, among other novels. She is also the author of several nonfiction books about the Amish, including Amish Peace and The Heart of the Amish. She lives in California. Learn more at www.suzannewoodsfisher.com and follow Suzanne on Facebook @SuzanneWoodsFisherAuthor and Twitter @suzannewfisher.

More from Suzanne

Oh-So-Maine Blueberry Buckle

Summer in Maine means plump, tart blueberries are everywhere. Here’s a family recipe that is nearly fool-proof….and so delicious! Especially with a scoop or two with vanilla ice cream.

Ever wonder how it got the name Blueberry Buckle? While the batter rises as it bakes, but the blueberries and crumb topping weigh it down. This causes the surface of the cake to buckle…hence the name.

Batter:

¾ cup sugar

¼ cup soft butter

1 egg

½ cup milk

2 cups sifted flour

½ teaspoon salt

2 teaspoons baking powder

2 cups drained blueberries

 

Crumb Topping:

½ cup sugar

½ cup flour

½ teaspoon cinnamon

¼ cup softened butter

 

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

 

Mix sugar and butter with egg. Stir in milk Sift together and stir in flour, baking powder and salt. Carefully blend in blueberries. Put on topping before baking. Pour in a greased and floured 9” square pan.

 

Bake 45-50 minutes.

 

 

 

Blog Stops

Just the Write Escape, May 23

The Avid Reader, May 23

The Power of Words, May 23

Blessed & Bookish, May 23

The Morning Chapter, May 24

Blogging With Carol, May 24

Carpe Diem, May 24

Cultivating Us, May 24

Godly Book Reviews, May 25

Stephanie’s Life of Determination, May 25

Mary Hake, May 25

For Him and my Family, May 25

C Jane Read, May 26

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 26

Blossoms and Blessings, May 26

Daysong Reflections, May 26

Lighthouse Academy, May 27

Reader’s Cozy Corner, May 27

Empower Moms, May 27

Remembrancy, May 27

Wishful Endings, May 28

Simple Harvest Reads, May 28

Spoken from the Heart, May 28

SusanLovesBooks, May 28

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 29

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, May 29

Chas Ray’ Book Nerd Corner, May 29

Hallie Reads, May 29

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, May 30

Maureen’s Musings, May 30

Library Lady’s Kit Lit, May 30

Inspiration Clothesline, May 30

Living Life Free in Christ, May 31

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 31

Pause for Tales, May 31

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, June 1

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 1

A Reader’s Brain, June 1

Through the Fire Blogs, June 2

Have A Wonderful Day, June 2

Southern Gal Loves to Read, June 2

Quiet Quilter, June 3

2014 and Beyond, June 3

By The Book, June 3

She Lives to Read, June 4

Texas Book-aholic, June 4

janicesbookreviews, June 4

Jeanette’s Thoughts, June 4

Christian Chick’s Thoughts, June 5

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, June 5

Inklings and notions, June 5

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Suzanne is giving away a grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter. https://promosimple.com/ps/e540/on-a-summer-tide-celebration-tour-giveaway

 

The Pages of Her Life Celebrate Lit Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Today is my stop on “The Pages of Her Life” Book Tour and Giveaway by Celebrate Lit.  We will discuss the book, hear about the author, other stops, and the giveaway.  Don’t forget to sign up.  You can’t win if you don’t register.

My Thoughts

This is the first book that I have read by author James L. Rubart, but it will not be the last.     He has a writing style that is easy to read and difficult to stop.  Once I started this book I could not quit reading it until I had finished it.  It captured me within the first few pages and held me until the end.

There is no romance but plenty of intrigue, inspiration, mystery in this drama by author Rubart.  He makes readers ponder “who am I, really” in this beautifully crafted tale.  Are we really the same person that people think we are?  That we think we are?

This is the story of brother, Parker, and sister, Allison.  They grapple with life, the memory of their father, and taking care of their mother.  The author has done a delightful job in creating these two.  I was equally invested in their lives.  At times I wanted to swoop in and chat with Allison. We had big differences in beliefs a few times.

She has a journal as many of us do.  However, what would you do if your words were changed after you had written them?  This is what is happening in her journal.   (Now see why I could not but this exceptional book down?)

There are twist and turns galore in this novel.  It is a Christian fiction with God and faith woven masterfully throughout the entire book.  The life lessons are timely and relevant.  They deal with faith, trusting God’s leading, honesty with yourself, forgiveness, hope, contentment, and family.  This is a God honoring book leading readers to the truth that God’s voice is really the only one of which we need to listen.

I highly recommend this book.  It has a section of Discussion Questions at the back, so Book Clubs will be delighted with this find.  Men and women alike will undoubtedly love it.  It receives 5 out of 5 stars from me.  I received a copy from Celebrate Lit but was under no obligation to write a review.  These are my honest thoughts.

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About the Book

Book: The Pages of Her Life

Author: James L. Rubart

Genre: Christian fiction – suspense

Release Date: May 21, 2019 Pages of Her Life cover

Award-winning and bestselling author James L. Rubart explores the way our memories shape us . . . and how they affect our beliefs.

Allison Moore has no idea why she got out of her car on that rainy March afternoon and picked up the soaked journal laying on the side of the road. Brought it home. But she did. It was empty. Except for two lines scrawled in the front, too washed out to read. And a Jesus emblem inside the back cover. Something about the journal compels her to start writing in it, capturing thoughts about her newly acquired job that she thought would be heaven, but has turned into hell. Then one day, she finds words in the center of the journal. Words she didn’t write: Mene mene tekel upharsin. After her heart stops hammering, Allison Googles the phrase, and reads the story of Belshazzar’s Feast, where a hand from God writes on the wall, and the king is slain. Fear grips her, certain God is coming after her for what she did twelve years back. What she’s done wrong her whole life. She vows to make things right. Then she discovers more phrases appearing underneath each of her journal entries. Those phrases take her on an emotional roller coaster that forces her to look at everything she believes about her past in a new light, and opens her eyes to a supernatural realm of staggering consequence.

 

About the Author

Rubart JamesJames L. Rubart is a professional marketer and speaker. He is the author of the best-selling novel Rooms as well as Book of Days, The Chair, Soul’s Gate, Memory’s Door, and Spirit Bridge. He lives with his wife and sons in the Pacific Northwest. Website: www.jameslrubart.comTwitter: @jameslrubart Facebook: JamesLRubart

 

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, May 21

Spoken from the Heart, May 22

Godly Book Reviews, May 23

Genesis 5020, May 23

Bigreadersite, May 24

Simple Harvest Reads, May 24

Through the Fire Blogs, May 25

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 25

Tell Tale Book Reviews, May 26

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, May 27

amandainpa, May 27

All-of-a-kind Mom, May 28

Hallie Reads, May 28

Reader’s Cozy Corner, May 29

Reflections From My Bookshelves, May 30

Ashley’s Bookshelf, May 30

Inspired by fiction, May 31

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, May 31

Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, June 1

For Him and My Family, June 2

janicesbookreviews, June 2

Maureen’s Musings, June 3

Inklings and notions , June 3

Mary Hake, June 4

Texas Book-aholic, June 4

Retrospective Spines, June 5

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 5

Christian Author, J.E. Grace, June 6

Blogging With Carol, June 7

Just the Write Escape, June 7

For The Love of Books, June 8

Remembrancy, June 8

All 4 and About Books, June 9

Livin’ Lit, June 9

A Reader’s Brain, June 10

Giveaway

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To celebrate his tour, James is giving away a finished copy of The Pages of Her Life!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter. https://promosimple.com/ps/e4f2/the-pages-of-her-life-celebration-tour-giveaway

Gardening, Harvesting, and a Recipe

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Summer is here.  It is a beautiful season!  Already it’s hot in Southern Indiana.  Are you ready to begin planting flowers or have you done that?  Do you like to garden, too?

Gardening is something that soothes me. Nurturing seeds and seedlings into plants is relaxing and produces resulting that can be seen.  The plants yield vegetables, fragrant herbs, or beautiful flowers.  I love it all.  Do you?  My grandparents on both sides gardened and it is in my blood.

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Of course, it takes care to get the desired results.  I can’t just scatter the seeds and hope everything works.  Seeds must be carefully planted and watered.  Fertilizing or feeding  helps give the plants nourishment to grow strong.  I will want to protect them from things seeking to destroy them by eating them.  Here we not only have bugs but critters like bunnies, groundhogs, and even deer that like to munch on tender young plants.  Most importantly, they will also need sun.  That will be beyond my control.  When the little seeds have everything they need, voila, we are rewarded with plants.

A couple of years ago I purchased yellow squash seeds.  I love yellow squash and have many recipes.  The seeds went in the ground and I made certain they had everything they needed to thrive.  I watered, fertilized, watched, and waited.  The seeds sprouted into three tiny plants.  Wow, I was happy.  They continued to grow and finally the yellow blossoms appeared.

Yellow squash dishes ran through my head for what would be first.  Would I have enough to share with others?  Yes, more blossoms formed.  I was excited.  Finally the flower turned into a vegetable.  Oh, no.  A green zucchini!  The seeds had been mispackaged.  We like zucchini, but not three more plants worth when one had been planted.

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My lesson was you reap what you sow.  I thought I was planting yellow squash but really all along had zucchini seeds.  I had a harvest of something I hadn’t anticipated.  Even though I thought I was doing everything right, one thing at the beginning spoiled everything.

How true is this in areas of our life?  We think we are doing something and put forth all of our energy to it.  When it is finished we find we were off track and are reaping something we had not expected?  It can be accidental like the seeds.  Someone else tripped me on that one.  Perhaps it is known but at the time it doesn’t seem like a big deal.  Ignoring someone in a store or not inviting someone to your party might seem innocent, but what happens later?

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Maybe we think our children aren’t watching how we treat some people, and grow up to mistreat them because we did.   Our work habits are excessive to provide for our family and now our family has no time for us.  Watch carefully what you sow so you don’t reap something unexpected.

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Memorial Day, Remember and Honor

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

The Memorial Day weekend is upon us.  Do you have big plans?  Living in Southern Indiana by Louisville there are many activities all weekend close by us.  My favorite is picnicking with family and playing games.

How much do you know about Memorial Day? It is much more than the Indy 500 and unofficial start of summer or three day weekend.  Even more than playing games and picnicking with beloved family.  The first Memorial Day was May 30, 1868.

This was a day for people to decorate graves of Civil War soldiers and originally known as Decoration Day. Unfortunately, grievously the United States lost many men during that horrible war against itself. Approximately 620,000 died during the Civil war. That is a staggering number. 620,000!

May 30th was chosen because no Civil War battles were fought that day and flowers across the nation would be in full bloom to decorate the graves.  It remained that date until 1971. Then it became a federal holiday known as Memorial Day and was changed to the last Monday of May giving people a three day weekend.

In honor of those who died, the American flag should be hung at half-staff until noon on Memorial Day. It should then be raised to the top. Since 2000, all Americans have been encouraged to stop for a National Moment of Remembrance at 3 p.m. IMG_3842Red poppies are a symbol of remembrance for those who died in war. People, men and women, wear them to honor those who died in war. Especially on Memorial Day you will see a lot of red poppies.IMG_3850Scouts can be seen placing flags on the graves in the National Cemetery. What a great honor for a young scout to do this.  I have a grandson that does this.  His Dad is a former Marine so he is very respectful of our military.

This Memorial Day think about your life, your freedom, and how you are privileged to live. Without those that unselfishly gave their lives defending our country, our freedom, and us, what would our lives be? Very different indeed.

Memorial Day is a time to remember those that gave all for our country, for us. It is our responsible to take care of what and who was entrusted to us and honor our military and especially God. We need to keep remembering and pass those memories on to teach our children. Children need to learn about our holidays… that they are more than a day off and that our country and freedom were paid for with the blood of brave men and women. There is a price for freedom.IMG_3846We live in a great country with strong roots. Many people have lived and died for this land of ours. Let us always remember you brave soldiers. Those that stood and stand between us and the enemy. Pray for them, our leaders, and our country. May God continue to bless America.

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“Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin condemns any people.” Proverbs 14:34 NIV

Remi by Author Caryl McAdoo Celebrate Lit Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Thanks for stopping by Celebrate Lit’s book Tour and Giveaway for Remi by Author Caryl McAdoo.  For you today there is information on the book and author, my review, information on the other tour stops and the giveaway.  Be sure to read all the way down and enter.

My Thoughts

The first thing I noticed about “Remi” was the beautiful cover.  The whimsical expression on her face was just perfect.  I first met Remi in an earlier book so I was thrilled to see she had her own now.  This is a Christian historical romance about two young women traveling from a Missouri to California via wagon train.  Oh the things they see and do on this trip!

Caryl McAdoo is a masterful storyteller.   It is easy to see that she researches her stories well, and that they are well planned, organized, and expertly written.  This was one such book.  Remi didn’t ask to be read. It demanded not to be put down until I had finished it.  This is a page turning, quick read.

I was immediately invested in the life of this young woman.  From page one I was engaged in the story and with the characters.  I felt the turmoil Remi felt.  Later I became acquainted with another character and the same thing happened.  The writing took me to a place where I could imagine and relate with the people in the book.

Author McAdoo gives us characters that are quirky, lovable, and memorable.  Using vivid descriptions she brings them to life and they become our new friends.  Well, most of them.  She knows how to conjure up a rascal, too.  Remi’s mother was no Proverbs 31 woman.  Edwina, the bondswoman, was a delightful, unique gal.  I really enjoyed her.

The book flowed along at a fast pace.  Author McAdoo has certainly done her research.  As I read about their journey west, I felt like I was traveling with them.  The descriptions were spot on.  It was evident the author had done her research on this well planned and well organized book.  It was not an easy trip to say the least.  The Oregon Trail was full of unknown trials and struggles.  I felt sorry for those traveling and the hardships they endured.  It made me realize just how easy our life is today.

As in all of this author’s books, I did not need to wonder if this was a Christian fiction.  It is plain by reading it that it is.  There are plenty of inspirational messages in this Christian, historical, romantic fiction.  Humor has been sprinkled into and I actually giggled while I read some parts – “I never dreamed oxen wore shoes.”

I loved the authentic dialog and even learned a new word or two.  “….I have this balky tooth.” Not only was it the period but also Edwina was from England that kept the language  different in this “lovely” book. Parts of the book did have some modern tones to them, but overall it sounded as though I was back in time.

This book is another gem in author McAdoo’s crown of achievements.  It taught me about the Oregon Trail, being on a schooner, and even oxen.  I love it when a book I am reading for fun teaches me things!  There are life and inspirational lessons on faith, love, trust, guidance, hope, and forgiveness.  Relationships between friends, family, and suitors are examples of good and bad and the author offers solutions.

I highly recommend this for anyone that enjoys historical fiction.  It is an easy to read, sweet book.  I rated it 5 out of 5 stars.  A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but I was under no obligation to write a review.

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About the Book

Book: Remi

Author: Caryl McAdoo

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: May 3, 2019

Remi CoverIt isn’t within man to guide his own steps—or a woman. Caught between a wagon train and the deep blue sea, Agnes Remington Dalrumple, Remi for short, chooses the overland journey west over crossing the Atlantic with her mother and step-father. She decides to go to California and try to fine the father she’s never known though she’s never been on her own. Thwarted at every turn, almost every effort is dashed until a widower’s thirteen-year-old daughter intervenes on her behalf. How can the headstrong woman place herself under the responsibility of the young girl’s father, a perfect stranger? But if she doesn’t, her journey ends right there in Saint Joseph, Missouri. On the Oregon/California trail, will her pride and independence deter her from the destiny God has prepared for her?

 

Click here to purchase your copy.

 

About the Author

Caryl McAdooFor research in December, Caryl McAdoo hit the trail—literally, the Oregon / California Trail—beginning in St. Jo, Missouri with the Napa Valley being her destiny. No wonder readers enjoy her novels so well! She prays her story brings God glory, and He blesses the award-winning, best-selling novels with a lion’s share of 5-Star ratings! With forty-three titles (thirty-three in the last four-and-a-half years), it’s obvious she loves writing almost as much as singing the new songs the Lord gives her. (Listen to a few at YouTube.) Celebrating fifty years being married to Ron, her high school sweetheart, she counts their four children and eighteen grandsugars life’s best blessings. The McAdoos live in the woods south of Clarksville, seat of Red River County in far Northeast Texas, waiting expectantly for God to open the next door.

More from Caryl

Remi, my May ‘Prairie Roses Collection’ story, picks up where Uniquely Common, my April ‘Lockets and Lace Collection’ story ends! Well, actually it backs up a bit to Remi’s decision to go west! In Uniquely Common, you meet her after she’s already in Saint Jo, trying to join the wagon train.

I fell in love with this semi-introvert, lover of literature, highly intelligent young lady, and felt the cover captured her exactly! (Thank you, Chautona Having, my new amazing cover designer! I am so blessed!)

Remi, short for Remington—her middle name as she hates her first name Agnus—is an only child reared by a single mother. Her father left years ago; she’s never met him and decides to go to California where his last letter was postmarked to do just that. It’s a long way from New York City, but better than sailing across the Atlantic.

And she can’t stay there with nowhere to live since her newest stepfather is whisking her mother overseas to his villa in Southern France. They invite her of course, but she hates boats and gets frightfully seasick! It seems the perfect time to go west and meet her Daddy. Riding in a prairie schooner would be a lark!

Researching for the covered wagons heading west led my dear husband to ask if I wanted to drive the Oregon / California Trail. Yes, yes, yes, I assured him! What could be better than seeing the rivers my wagon train had to cross, the amazing sights my characters would experience, and the terrain they navigated for ourselves?

What an opportunity God put before me!

Two weeks and forty-three hundred-plus miles later, we got back home to Clarksville, enthralled with our journey. That trip has made this story so much better for me! I hope it will make it all the better for you, too! I praise and give glory to the Lord for His many blessings and high favor.

I’m so grateful for the stories He gives us, His divine appointments—like with Sandy Barela, the founder of Celebrate Lit, all her amazing bloggers and reviewers—the doors He opens, my new cover designer Chautona Havig and all the fictional characters He introduces me to and allows me to share with you!

♫♪*`•. I’m just so excited.•*♪¨*about what the Lord is doing!•♪♫*`•. I’m just so excited Lord!! ♪♫•*¨♪ for what I know♪♫¸¸.•*♪ He will do!!*•.¸ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ¸♫♪*`•. I’m just so excited!!•.¸.• ✿And He is delighted ღ(̆̃̃ڿڰۣ✿♫♪*with my anticipation ♪♫•* ♫♪ of what I know He will do. •*♪♫•!♪♫¸•*♪ And I get to be a part ♫♪*`of what the Lord is doing!•♪♫*`•. I get to be a part! ♫•*♪¨♥ •♪♫ of what I know♪♫¸.•*♪ He will do!!*•.♫♪ I get to be a part ♫♪*♫•*♥ and He has a good plan!♪*•.✿♫♪*`•. He’s called me for His purpose!.•*♪¨ ✿♫♪*`• I have a role to play! ♪♫•*¨♪ (hear this new song on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GKnU8JWXRlU )

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, May 20

Stephanie’s Life of Determination, May 20

Blessed & Bookish, May 21

Quiet Workings, May 21

Retrospective Spines, May 22

For HIm and My Family, May 22

Maureen’s Musiings, May 23

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 24

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, May 25

KarenSueHadley , May 26

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, May 26

Christian Author, J.E. Grace, May 27

Through the Fire Blogs, May 28

Emily Yager, May 29

Inklings and notions, May 29

Bigreadersite, May 30

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 30

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 31

janicesbookreviews, May 31

Texas Book-aholic, June 1

A Reader’s Brain, June 2

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Caryl is giving away

Grand Prize – $50 Gift Amazon Card

1st Prize – Signed, Paperback copy of CHOICE of all my books

2nd Prize – Signed copy of Remi

3rd Prize – eBook copy of Remi

4th Prize – eBook copy of CHOICE of all my books!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter. https://promosimple.com/ps/e516/remi-celebration-tour-giveaway

 

 

The God Dare: Will You Choose to Believe the Impossible? by Kate Battistelli

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

I hadn’t heard of author Kate Battistelli before this book but her name sounded familiar. Do you think so, too?   Ahhhh, you are smarter than I am.  Yes, she is related to singer Francesca Battistelli, her mother in fact.  While we all know her daughter can singer what we did not know is that Mama can write!

This is a transparent, open look into the author’s life and her relationship with God.  It is written eloquently and gracefully flows from the pages of her book into readers’ hearts.  The stories are so personal and interesting that I felt like I was chatting with a new friend.

In her book, the author discusses how God has plans for each one of us.  He also offers assistance to equip us to accomplish our task.  Like the saying goes, God doesn’t call the qualified but qualifies the called.

She is open and honest with her journey.  There are many personal and family stories of listening to God and following Him.  Biblical stories are used, also.  All of these to help readers realize that we were all born for a purpose at this time.  Our first duty is to find our purpose and the second is to do it.  With God’s leading and helping us, anything is possible.

This is a thought provoking book that will have your wheels turning.  Author Kate challenges readers to search and find our purpose.  Then take the big step and begin working on it.  This will take a lot of prayer, listening for God, trusting Him, and courage.

I love the line “God sees us according to our destiny, not our history.”  God is presented lovingly, approachable, and caring by the author, which is how I perceive Him.  The God Dare is such an encouraging, uplifting book.  I loved it.

I highly recommend it to everyone.  Seasoned Christians will benefit from the refreshing tone and delightful stories that turn hearts and minds to God and what His plans are for each of us.  New Christians or Seekers will benefit, too.  The true, honest writing and sweet words will help draw them in and answer some questions.  They will be inspired and encouraged.

This would be a nice book for a church library.  Yes, a study group would really enjoy it, too.  I will be keeping this in my library but encouraging many people to buy and read it. It gets a 5 out of 5 star rating from me.  A copy was provided by the publisher but I was under no obligation to write a review.  These are my own, honest words.

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About the Book

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The God Dare. Where will you hear it? . . .

Deep down inside, you know you’re on this planet for a reason. God has a plan in mind just for you. In fact, He chose you for His plan before the foundation of the world. He designed you very specifically for this time and this place, and He’s perfectly equipped you to accomplish His purpose in the earth.

Through engaging and memorable true stories—both biblical and modern—author Kate Battistelli challenges and encourages you to discover how God has specifically designed you for this time in history, your place in the world, your role in His cosmic plan. Once and for all, let go of your fear, worry, pride and strife. . .

All God ever needs is a willing vessel. Will you say yes?

About the Author

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Kate Battistelli is an author, speaker, mentor. A wife, former Broadway actress, and mom to one of Christian music’s most celebrated recording artists, GRAMMY and Dove Award winning, Christian contemporary singer-songwriter Francesca Battistelli. Kate currently writes about food and faith at her popular website https://katebattistelli.com/ She thoroughly enjoys being Mimi to her four grandchildren, Eli, Audrey Jane, Isaac James and Wyatt Samuel!

What Others are Saying

“The God Dare will challenge your heart and soul. But more than that, it will encourage you to walk closer with Jesus. And all of us need that!”
–Karen Kingsbury, #1 New York Times bestselling author

“Kate will inspire you to discover the path He’s chosen for you at this time in history and just where you fit in to His cosmic plan. Take The God Dare. It will change your life and change the world at the same time!”
–Dr. Josh Axe DNM, DC, CNS and author of the bestselling Keto Diet and Eat Dirt

“This book is for anyone who wants God’s best and is willing to believe that He can turn your pain into passion, your tragedy into triumph, and take you from mess to messenger. Let Kate’s words of wisdom help you embark on your own God Dare!”
–Jordan Rubin, New York Times bestselling author of The Maker’s Diet Founder, Garden of Life, Beyond Organic and Ancient Nutrition

“Frustrated with a complacent walk with Christ? Kate tells us that age, gender, anxiety, past failures, etc. are no excuse for staying where we are. The God Dare provides examples of how trustworthy He is—in surprising and supernatural ways! Become a world changer…I dare you…no, God dares you!”
–Pastor Steve Berger, Grace Chapel