ACTs 420NOW Celebrate Lit Tour

Posted on October 9, 2019October 7, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

This Bible study is a wonderful tool to dig deeper into the book of Acts and to learn how to study the Bible. It is well researched, well organized, well planned, and extremely well written. The author, Marta E Greenman, has divided the study into eight chapters with five study days each. Opening her book with Bible Study Tips she gives readers a head start on studying their bible.

Each chapter begins with an overview of the week’s biblical truths. There is an application to help better understand it. Throughout the chapters are additional helps such as charts, lists, and diagrams to assist in learning and retaining the information.

The author uses Peter and John as examples of how to stand firm for Christ in spite of persecution. She also uses stories of well known historical figures, such as William Bradford, Martin Luther, William Tyndal, as well as U.S. Revolutionary War heroes and early leaders of our nation, to illustrate how to apply biblical truths in life.

I enjoyed this study and picked up a lot of information from the author’s perspective. It is easy to read and understand. This would make a great study too for any library. Churches libraries would benefit from keeping a copy on hand.

I recommend this to anyone wanting to expand or deepen their knowledge of the Bible. It would make a nice present for any scholar. I rated it a 4 out of stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my honest thoughts.

About the Book

Book: ACTs420NOW

Author: Marta E. Greenman

Genre: Non-Fiction, Inspirational, Jesus, the Gospel and Acts

Release Date: November 25, 2015

Afraid to take a stand for Jesus?

What would you do if asked to defend or recant your faith?

Discover how the apostles, as well as other historical believers, were equipped to take a stand and defend their faith. The book of Acts comes to life in Marta E. Greenman’s relevant Bible study and will strengthen you to overcome difficult circumstances in your own life.

Take an in-depth look at:

The lives of Peter and John, and other first-century believers who answered their culture while standing firm for Christ in spite of persecution
Little-known facets of the stories of pilgrim, William Bradford, Martin Luther and martyr, William Tyndale.
The faith of heroes of the U. S. Revolution and our nation’s early leaders that shaped our great nation.

Strategies for overcoming, and powerful biblical principles, are intertwined with lessons from the believers of history in this eight-week, interactive Bible study. Five strategic lessons each week will encourage you in your faith, and equip you to face difficult days. Interactive questions will help you examine your own life and leave a deposit of faith.

“For we cannot stop about speaking what we have seen and heard.” (Acts 4:20 NAS)

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Marta E. Greenman was called out of corporate America in 1988, then joined a church-planting organization and traveled the world in evangelism and discipleship campaigns. In 2002, she and her husband, Marshall, moved to Romania to help church plant and work with street children. In 2011, Marta founded Words of Grace & Truth Ministries, which is dedicated to teaching God’s Word to the nations, and teaching others to do the same. She is the author of two other Bible studies, Bound to be Free, and Leaders, Nations, and God, teaches and speaks nationally and internationally, and makes her home with her husband in Plano, TX.

More from Marta

What can we learn from the first century church to make the twenty first century church more “successful.” Join me in a journey to rediscover principles from the first century church to apply them to your life. We will start from the foundation of Christianity, there is salvation in none other than Jesus Christ, and build from there. We will start our journey in Acts 4 and explore strategies for overcoming.

Blog Stops

Through the Lens of Scripture, October 7

Just the Write Escape,October 8

Mary Hake, October 8

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, October 9

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 10

Godly Book Reviews, October 11

The Becca Files, October 12

She Lives To Read, October 12

Texas Book-aholic, October 13

Through the Fire Blogs, October 14

Older & Smarter?, October 15

Genesis 5020, October 16

A Reader’s Brain, October 17

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 17

janicesbookreviews, October 18

Inklings and notions, October 19

Kathleen Anderson, October 20

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Marta is giving away the grand prize of a $25 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/ed1e/acts420now-celebration-tour-giveaway

Heaven Help Us!

Posted on October 5, 2019October 5, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Heaven Help Us! That was the name of the Independent Christian Bookstore that I owned for ten years. It was truly a labor of love. I loved the atmosphere, the customers, our employees, and the service we provided. Oh, and the books!

We hated having to close our store, but the time had come. Our competition was Amazon, e-books, and big box stores. In December 2012 with tears we locked the doors for the very last time.

Recently I received a call asking “is this Heaven Help Us?” After I explained that we had previously owned it and now it was closed, the caller moaned and replied “oh, I don’t know what I will do now. I went there all of the time.” Hmmm, she called almost seven years after we closed and had no idea it happened yet she frequented the store “all the time”. That was the last of many calls I have received identical to it. Everyone shopped there all of the time but had no idea we had gone out of business years earlier.

Time has a funny way of slipping up on us, doesn’t it? What seemed like just yesterday to some people was actually years. Big difference. When we think we recently phoned someone to check in with them in reality it might be a lot longer. Visiting with family or dear friends could appear to be “all of the time,” but maybe it has been months or even years since the last one.

Don’t let precious time slip by. Time waits for no one. Carve out some to spend with loved ones making memories and reminiscing about treasured ones. They might be sitting and waiting to hear from you.

How about talking to your Heavenly Father? Do you really do that as much as you think? Make it a priority to start and end your day with Him. Do not just plan to do it, actually do it. You will find the pieces of your day fall into place with daily prayer. Don’t know what to pray sometimes? Try “Heaven help us or Heaven help me.” We can all use help from above.

Darcy by Any Other Name Celebrate Lit Tour and Giveaway

Posted on October 5, 2019October 7, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Welcome to my stop for the Darcy by Any Other Name Celebrate Lit tour and Giveaway. I am eager for you to learn about this book and author. Please enter the giveaway at the end for a $25 Amazon gift card.

My Thoughts

Author Laura Hile has penned an interesting version of Pride and Prejudice in Darcy by Any Other Name. This Christian Regency Romance novel is exceptionally written. It captured my attention and had me turning pages wanting to see what would happen next.

I enjoyed the author’s writing style. Her prose was easy to read and flowed smoothly. Twists made the story riveting. Descriptive writing took me back in time and over to England where I made many new friends.

The characters were spot on. Very like their Pride and Prejudice predecessors they were well rounded, complete with flaws. Some were downright eccentric.

The author has a brilliant imagination to produce this whimsical tale. It easily could be a Hallmark movie. Due to an accident Mr. Darcy and Mr. Collins exchange bodies. Let the chaos begin!

The switch was done exemplary and made for a fascinating tale. I kept wanting to skip to the end to see how or if they switched back. My interest was piqued and held steady throughout this extraordinary book.

Whether you are a tried and true P&P fan or a never before read it person, this book will delight and amuse you. You will find history, life lessons, faith, inspiration, prejudice, greed, and love. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Anyone will enjoy this treasure.

I highly recommend this book. It receives a 5 out of 5 stars from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my honest words.

Click here to get your copy.

About the Book

Book: Darcy by Any Other Name

Author: Laura Hile

Genre: Historical Christian Romance, Regency

Release Date: May 13, 2016

Discover the Pride and Prejudice body-swap romance that has readers laughing in surprise and delight.

For most, this is a glorious evening of music and dancing. But out in the garden two men are arguing, while a ferocious rainstorm swirls round. And then the unthinkable happens: a lightning bolt from heaven strikes. In that instant everything changes.

Jane Austen’s heartthrob hero becomes the bumbling Reverend Collins. Shorn of his fortune, his social standing, and his good looks, Mr. Darcy is trapped in Mr. Collins’ body. And Mr. Collins wakes up to discover that he is master of Pemberley.

Could there be anything worse?

But the inner man is still Darcy. He is in love with Elizabeth Bennet. And now he is living in her house.

If you enjoy a smart, sparkling Regency romp in the classic “Heyeresque” style, then you will love Laura Hile’s Darcy By Any Other Name.

Click here to get your copy.

About the Author

My journey as a writer began with the Internet. And with Jane Austen.

How is that for an unlikely combination?

I have always loved classic Regency romances. You know the kind – with a dashing, honorable hero and a lovely, intelligent heroine. Delicious banter, unexpected plot twists, humor, and a happy ending. If faith is woven into the story, so much the better.

When I discovered an online forum for Jane Austen-related fiction, I was hooked. With Jane’s characters for inspiration, I began writing and posting serialized Regency stories. To keep readers coming back for more, I developed my signature style: intertwined plots, cliffhangers, and laugh-out-loud humor.

The comedy I come by in my job as a middle school teacher—there’s never a dull moment with teens!

I live in Beaverton, Oregon with my husband.

More from Laura

I see that double-take you just did. Darcy By Any Other Name is a what? A Pride and Prejudice body-swap romance? Seriously?

Indeed yes. And it’s a really fun read. I blame my sense of humor. And the fact that I think too much.

Here’s the thing: we women are captivated by Jane Austen’s Mr. Darcy—we are! Handsome, aloof, and wealthy, he embodies the perfect male. By comparison, the ordinary guy has no chance. (And heaven help the fellow who is plain!)

Yet we know that attraction involves more than good looks and a fat wallet.

I began to play with this thought. Because Mr. Darcy is also honorable, intelligent, kind, and funny—qualities that transform an ugly man and capture a woman’s interest. The shared smile, the twinkle in the eyes, the finishing of her sentences. These are endearing! These are why we women fall in love!

Once the body swap idea showed up, I knew I had struck story gold. Will Darcy-as-Collins capture Elizabeth Bennet’s heart?

No, wait! She cannot fall for him because he’s the wrong man—no, the right man! But he’s in that podgy body! She cannot love Mr. Darcy when he’s—ugly! Can she?

Ah, but of course she can. Now what?

Think of Darcy By Any Other Name as a happy roller coaster ride. And you know what they say about those: “Get in, sit down, and hold on.”

Do leave a comment and enter the giveaway. I think you will enjoy this fun, romantic book.

Blog Stops

Through the Fire Blogs, September 30

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 30

A Baker’s Perspective, October 1

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 1

Reflections From My Bookshelves, October 2

For Him and My Family, October 2

Back Porch Reads, October 3

Sara Jane Jacobs, October 3

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 4

Mary Hake, October 4

Remembrancy, October 5

Emily Yager, October 5

Bigreadersite, October 6

Rebecca Tews, October 6

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, October 7

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 7

Rev. Rebecca Writes: Read, Write, Pray, October 8

Creating Romance, October 8

Blossoms and Blessings, October 9

janicesbookreviews, October 9

By The Book, October 10

Moments, October 11

Pause for Tales, October 11

Texas Book-aholic, October 12

A Reader’s Brain, October 12

Inklings and notions , October 13

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Laura is giving away the grand prize of a $25 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/ef43/darcy-by-any-other-name-celebration-tour-giveaway

A Promise to Break Celebrate Lit Tour and Giveaway

Posted on October 3, 2019October 2, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

A Promise to Break by author Kathryn Spurgeon is a Christian historical fiction set in 1930’s Oklahoma. It is based on the lives and experiences of the author’s family. When I learned that I felt like a fly on the wall watching as things happened.

This is the story of Sibyl (yes, the spelling is correct) and her desire to please her father by promising him to be part of a political movement that would change the world. She comes from a well to do family and is used to the finer things in life.

It is also the story of Fremont who is down on his luck and a self proclaimed hobo. He does come from a Christian family and is one himself. They are completely different but drawn to each other.

The author has given us a nostalgic tale of life in America in the Great Depression as well as Kansas in the Dust Bowl era. Life was hard and the author beautifully illustrates family issues, political and financial problems, as well as faith. Details are enjoyable and bring the story to life.

Characters are relatable and seem so real. It was easy to become invested in the story and their lives. I remember tales my own grandparents and parents told about the misery of the Great Depression and the author has captured the emotions well. This is a well researched, organized, and well planned novel.

The inspirational message to trust God is not watered down nor is it hidden. It was encouraging to watch as Sibyl grew in her faith and person. I learned more about the people and time period of the setting. Books that inspire, educate, and entertain are definitely my favorites.

I would recommend this book. The writing style was nice, dialogs were realistic and flowed easily, and the characters were memorable. I rated this 4 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my honest words.

About the Book

Book: A Promise to Break

Author: Kathryn Spurgeon

Genre: Christian Historical

Release Date: July 11, 2016

SIBYL TRIMBLE, the daughter of a wealthy banking family during the Great Depression in Shawnee, Oklahoma, promises her father to be part of a political movement to change the world. By 1932, the timing to fulfill that promise seems right. Her life consists of fashionable clothes, cruising in a Model T, and dancing every weekend at the local speakeasy.

FREMONT POPE is a handsome, blue-eyed, down-on-his-luck hobo, and Sibyl’s life turns upside down when she meets him. Her love for him and his Christian family opens her eyes to a different way of life than she has ever known.

Based on a true story, this historical novel follows Sibyl through some difficult choices. She must dig deep within herself to find strength to face her father and determine which, if any, of her past beliefs can be salvaged. What is more important, love or duty?

Click here to get your copy.

About the Author

A Christian writer, Biblical counselor, teacher and speaker who offers insight, the author loves connecting to people individually and through retreats and conferences.

Kathryn’s mission is to teach that the passion of godly love knows no boundaries. Whether with prisoners, international students or those needing assistance, her platform strategy is the concept of personal, intimate encounters with Jesus. Her historical novel, “Up Town,” shows the importance of spiritual encounters with Jesus—small encounters that lead to a more mature spiritual life. Kathryn’s Biblical counseling and teaching background lends itself to this message.

She lived in South Korea for two years in her early twenties, spent time in an orphanage and adopted two Korean babies. A single mom for 18 years, she went from welfare to owner and CEO of a multimillion dollar corporation, Integrity Healthy Care. Her company took care of the medical needs of over 4,000 prisoners and during that time she counseled over 200 women.

Kathryn and her husband, Bill, hold Bible studies for international students attending the University of Central Oklahoma. They have had many different students live in their home and try to help students in all areas of their lives.

Kathryn is on the Mission Team at her home church, Henderson Hills Baptist Church, in Edmond, Oklahoma, where she has been a member for over 13 years. While attending her prior church, Country Estates Baptist Church in Midwest City, Oklahoma, she was on the Finance and Long Range Planning Committees, and taught DivorceCare and Financial classes. She is a Crown Money Map coach.

Bill and Kathryn have six children and nine grandchildren at the last count, including some adopted. Their family is internationally diverse. God’s love is enormous and includes all of us.

More from Kathryn

Nostalgic book

Have you ever wished to go back in time and question a relative who is no longer around? Ask what motivated her, discuss her greatest heartaches and how she overcame them, analyze her spiritual journey?

My grandmother’s life was full of upheavals and I wish I could have spent more time with her and studied her thought-processes. My mother did spend more time with her. With a clear mind of that time, Mom (and many others) enthusiastically shared memories and discussed the lessons the once wealthy Sibyl Trimble may have gathered in life.

What a trip it has been! Autobiographies. Publications. Notes in attic boxes containing information about secret love affairs and heart-breaking losses told with spiritual honesty. The more information I uncovered, the more I wanted to get to know Sibyl Trimble, the person. I wanted to know how God worked in her life. I wanted to write her story.

The nostalgic era of the 1930s came alive to me as I travelled to places of lively, boogie-woogie music, old handwritten documents, and tombstones. The amazing, booming town of Shawnee, Oklahoma, was the perfect setting for a Great Depression tale. Some people moved to California during that time. Others stayed in Shawnee. In contrast to “The Grapes of Wrath,” this book relates the experiences of some who remained during one of the worst times in U.S. history. They stayed and thrived.

This book is not a recount of simple facts but examines the essence of a brilliant woman who traversed through life, maneuvering the hardships along with the blessings. I uncovered anecdotes, read newspaper articles, and confirmed family lore that had been passed down through generations.

Many readers agree Sibyl could have been their grandmother, their heritage, and after reading this book series, they will know Sibyl almost as well as I do.

This story is an intimate look at a searching individual during the wistful days of a long-gone era. I expect, after you read “A Promise to Break,” you’ll agree that Sibyl Trimble’s story needed to be told.

Blog Stops

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 1

To Everything There Is A Season, October 1

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, October 2

Reflections From My Bookshelves, October 2

Through the Fire Blogs, October 3

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess , October 3

Connie’s History Classroom , October 4

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 4

Betti Mace, October 4

Older & Smarter?, October 5

Blogging With Carol , October 5

Hallie Reads, October 6

Life of Literature, October 6

Genesis 5020, October 7

A Baker’s Perspective, October 7

Rebekah Jones, Author, October 7

Moments, October 8

Emily Yager, October 8

For the Love of Literature, October 9

Maureen’s Musings, October 9

She Lives to Read, October 9

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 10

Stephanie’s Life of Determination, October 10

Pause for Tales , October 11

Connect in Fiction, October 11

Reader’s Cozy Corner,October 11

Texas Book-aholic, October 12

Bigreadersite, October 12

Inklings and notions, October 13

janicesbookreviews, October 13

Bloggin’ ’bout Books, October 13

A Reader’s Brain, October 14

Batya’s Bits, October 14

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Kathryn is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon card and a copy of the book!!

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/ed93/a-promise-to-break-celebration-tour-giveaway

Stitches in Time Celebrate Lit Tour and Giveaway

Posted on September 30, 2019September 29, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

Stitches in Time by Author Suzanne Woods Fisher is Amish Christian Fiction at its best. Author Fisher is an expert wordsmith and masterfully weaves a captivating tale. It is engaging and so interesting that I could not put it down. It is about God doesn’t call the qualified but qualify the called.

There were so many relevant life lessons in the powerhouse of a book. Foster-care is discussed in all aspects. Marriage is dissected. Silence verses opening up is discussed as is being truthful.

If you are a longtime fan, there will be many familiar names pop up in the lovely book. For me it felt like a friendly reunion. Characters are so well described that the are like friends well before the end of the book. I am invested in their lives. In fact, I want to chat up on all the latest news while the new stuff is happening.

This tale had a strong spiritual message which I really appreciate in any Christian book. It had plenty of scripture, life lessons, and taught me things I did not know. Parts of it made me chuckle, angry, sad, and want to rejoice. This is the most different, yet refreshing, Amish story I have ever read.

There is a yummy recipe at the end. I am going to try that tomorrow. That is followed by a sneak peek for her next week. Then you will find Discussion Questions. Book Clubs, get this book! There is a lot to ponder and discuss. The author has included some notes, too. Be sure to read the section on Foster Care.

Anyone will glean something from this skillfully crafted novel. I highly recommend it. I think everyone will adore it. Even if you are an Amish fan, you will love this book. It gets a 5 out of 5 star rating from me. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit but these are my honest thoughts.

About the Book

Book: Stitches in Time

Author: Suzanne Woods Fisher

Genre: Contemporary Amish fiction

Release Date: October 1, 2019

Detachment had worked well as a life strategy for horse trainer Sam Schrock. Until he met Mollie Graber . . .

New to Stoney Ridge, schoolteacher Mollie has come to town for a fresh start. Aware of how fleeting and fragile life is, she wants to live it boldly and bravely. When Luke Schrock, new to his role as deacon, asks the church to take in foster girls from a group home, she’s the first to raise her hand. The power of love, she believes, can pick up the dropped stitches in a child’s heart and knit them back together.

Mollie envisions sleepovers and pillow fights. What the 11-year-old twins bring to her home is anything but. Visits from the sheriff at midnight. Phone calls from the school truancy officer. And then the most humiliating moment of all: the girls accuse Mollie of drug addiction.

There’s only one thing that breaks through the girls’ hard shell–an interest in horses. Reluctantly and skeptically, Sam Schrock gets drawn into Mollie’s chaotic life. What he didn’t expect was for love to knit together the dropped stitches in his own heart . . . just in time.

Suzanne Woods Fisher invites you back to the little Amish church of Stoney Ridge for a touching story of the power of love.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Carol-award winner Suzanne Woods Fisher writes untold stories about inspiring people. With over one million copies of her books sold worldwide, she is the bestselling author of fiction and non-fiction, ranging from Amish Peace: Simple Wisdom for a Complicated World to the historical novel Anna’s Crossing.

More from Suzanne

Have you ever felt the tug to become a foster parent?

On any given day, there are nearly 438,000 children in foster care in the United States. Most states have a critical need for more foster parents, and the number of children placed in foster care increases yearly.

There are plenty of assumptions about having foster children, but most are incorrect. The media has a tendency to focus on the negative, but from all the research I conducted to write this book, for every bad news story, there were two good ones. Good stories just don’t make the news.

Below are some of the most common assumptions about foster care, with corrected information that is applicable across the United States (but keep in mind that each state has their own requirements).

Myth: Kids in foster care are bad or troubled.

Truth: Children in foster care are good kids taken out of a troubled situation. They need a caring foster parent who is patient and understanding. When given the opportunity, most of these children begin to thrive.

Myth: To be a foster parent, you need to be married and own a home and be a college graduate.

Truth: You don’t need to be married or to own a home or even be a college graduate. That means if you’re single or renting, you can be a foster parent.

Myth: I can’t afford to be a foster parent.

Truth: There are monthly reimbursement rates for children in foster care based on the level of care you provide. Medical and dental care is paid through state Medicaid programs.

Myth: Most kids in foster care are teenagers.

Truth: The average age of a child entering foster care is seven years old.

Myth: Most kids are in foster care because their parents have abused drugs.

Truth: Now, this one is not a myth. It’s true. There are fifteen categories that can be responsible for a child’s removal from a home. Drug abuse from a parent has had the largest percentage increase.

Myth: Fostering could require a commitment until the child turns eighteen.

Truth: Generally, children remain in state care for less than two years. Only six percent spend five or more years in foster care.

Myth: It’s too hard to give a child up to his biological family.

Truth: Most children are in foster care for a short time, returning to their biological families. Reuniting a child to his family is the ideal situation. Foster families provide a safe haven for a child. Healthy grieving is to be expected, but it’s for the right reasons. It’s healthy.

Myth: You can’t adopt foster children.

Truth: In 2016, more than 65,000 children—whose mothers and fathers parental rights were legally terminated—waiting to be adopted. Also in 2016, more than 20,000 children “aged out” of foster care without permanent families. Research has shown that those who leave care without being linked to a “forever family” have a higher likelihood than the general youth population to experience homelessness, unemployment, and incarceration as adults.

Is there room in your heart and family for a child in need? There are many ways to get involved, some that do not even require foster care. One recommendation: volunteer with The National CASA Association (Court Appointed Special Advocates) for Children. You can find out more information here: www.casaforchildren.org.

Or consider small ways to connect to children in need—after school tutoring at your public library. Volunteering at a community center. Buy Christmas gifts for a family in need through an Adopt-a-Family program with a local church. Support a family who does provide foster care with respites—babysitting or meals. There’s many ways to get involved to care for children in need. And every little bit makes a difference.

Blog Stops

The Power of Words, September 26

The Becca Files, September 26

SusanLovesBooks, September 26

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 26

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, September 27

Through the Fire Blogs, September 27

Adventures of a Traveler’s Wife, September 27

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 28

Inspiration Clothesline, September 28

Texas Book-aholic, September 28

Book bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, September 29

Jeanette’s Thoughts, September 29

Blogging With Carol , September 29

Hookmeinabook , September 29

The Avid Reader, September 30

Mia Reads, September 30

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, September 30

janicesbookreviews, October 1

My Devotional Thoughts, October 1

Maureen’s Musings, October 1

CarpeDiem, October 1

For Him and My Family, October 2

Stories By Gina, October 2

Activating Faith, October 2

A Reader’s Brain, October 3

EmpowerMoms, October 3

Wishful Endings, October 3

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 3

Carla Loves To Read, October 4

Pause for Tales, October 4

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

Inklings and notions , October 5

Quiet Quilter, October 5

Vicky Sluiter, October 5

Hallie Reads, October 5

Blossoms and Blessings, October 6

For The Love of Books , October 6

For the Love of Literature, October 6

Bigreadersite, October 7

By The Book, October 7

She Lives to Read, October 7

Moments, October 8

Southern Gal Loves to Read, October 8

Girls in White Dresses, October 8

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, October 9

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 9

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Suzanne is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon gift card and a copy of her book!!

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/ec6a/stitches-in-time-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Trouble with Nancy Celebrate Lit Tour and Giveaway

Posted on September 28, 2019September 26, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

The Trouble with Nancy by author Chautona Havig is a Christian Historical Western novel. I have never read anything except contemporary by this author, and this book is proof that she is more than capable of branching out into other genre. She did a fantastic job with this tale.

This is the story of Nancy Harrison, a dreamy headed young woman whose family is struggling. Her father recently died leaving her mother to pay taxes they cannot afford. Nancy’s brother wants to help and trouble ensues.

Fiesty Nancy decides to join the Pony Express Riders and help her family. This experience changes her tremendously. She finds herself and God along the way. It was a captivating tale and I was immediately invested.

Author Havig always puts an inspirational message in her books. It isn’t hidden but in plain sight. That is one of the things I love about her writing. Her style is pleasant, down to earth, and easy to read.

This story had a few twists that made me want to keep reading it. I learned a lot about the Pony Express. Books that not only entertain me but also teach me things are my favorites along with the Christian message being clear.

This is a delightful story. I found the characters totally engaging. I wanted to offer advice to Nancy in certain parts and actually spoke out loud a few times. It definitely gets my recommendation. I give it a 4.5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but this is my honest opinion.

About the Book

Book: The Trouble with Nancy

Author: Chautona Havig

Genre: Christian Historical Romance, Western

Release Date: July 18, 2019

Her reputation precedes her, whether the bad guys realize it or not.

Nancy Harrison has finally stepped out of her prissy box and tried to do something helpful–but did she go overboard in her first self-less act?

She can’t ride, she hates horses, and she’s terrified of being alone. What’s a girl to do?

Join the Pony Express, of course.

When Nancy Harrison’s family receives a tax bill they can’t pay, there’s only one option open to them. Her brother, Lewis, will have to join the Pony Express and earn the money that way.

It would have worked, too, if ruffians hadn’t attacked him and broken his leg.

She doesn’t want to do it, of course, but what choice is there? Lose everything or ride a stupid, smelly horse for a few weeks? Nancy decides that she’ll chop off her hair, take to the dusty overland trail, and prove that she isn’t a “flighty little thing.”

But things go from bad to worse as she discovers that riding astride is worse than sidesaddle—especially when you’re not used to it.

Can’t she just go back home to balls, teas, and the hope of a suitor before her twentieth birthday? Sans her hair, of course, because that’ll entice the fellows. Sigh.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Chautona Havig lives in an oxymoron, escapes into imaginary worlds that look startlingly similar to ours and writes the stories that emerge. An irrepressible optimist, Chautona sees everything through a kaleidoscope of It’s a Wonderful Life sprinkled with fairy tales. Find her on the web and say howdy—if you can remember how to spell her name.

Video Chat with Chautona

Blog Stops

Daysong Reflections, September 25

Quiet Workings, September 25

Blossoms and Blessings, September 26

Books, Life, and Christ, September 26

Pause for Tales , September 27

For Him and my Family, September 27

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess , September 28

Texas Book-aholic, September 29

Mary Hake, September 29

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, September 30

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 30

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 1

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 2

For the Love of Books , October 2

Inklings and notions, October 3

Emily Yager, October 4

Batya’s Bits, October 4

Older & Smarter?, October 5

janicesbookreviews, October 6

Betti Mace, October 6

A Reader’s Brain, October 7

Wishful Endings, October 7

Lots of Helpers, October 8

She Lives to Read, October 8

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Chautona is giving away the grand prize package of a paperback copy of the book and a Pony Express book cozy!!

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/ed48/the-trouble-with-nancy-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Redemption of Caralynne Hayman Book Review

Posted on September 25, 2019September 24, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

The Redemption of Caralynne Hayman by author Carole Brown is a gritty tale of cult activity. It is 342 pages long and classified as contemporary Religious Fiction. Notice the “Religious” and not “Christian” classification.

Author Brown has written a novel about the gruesome things that are done to women and girls in cults. Not much is said about boys in this book as her focus is on females and their mistreatment. Brainwashing, abuse, sexual violence, suffering, and extreme male dominance made this a very rough story.

The characters were all over the spectrum which I would guess is typical in a cult. It was hard to relate to them. The author’s writing style left me wanting something more. At times the story lagged and I quickly lost interest. Dialog sounded stiff and unrealistic, but I have never been in a cult. I could not find the inspirational element, but maybe I just skimmed over it during a rough part.

It is such a heart wrenching tale of loss and heartache that I could not finish reading it. Please not this is just my personal opinion. I have heard that many others enjoyed it. This book was just too hard for my soft heart to take. I rated it a 3 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my honest thoughts.

About the Book

How far would YOU go to avenge the murder of a daughter?
Caralynne Hayman is angry and bitter over the abuse and death of her eleven-year-old daughter from the hands of her religious group, The Children of Righteous Cain. When her husband suffers a sudden heart attack, she does nothing to help him. In her eyes someone needs to pay, and if that means all of the men in the group, then so be it.
Dayne MacFarland is sent away to college by the senior elder of the group to learn ministry. When he returns after finding salvation, determined to bring the truth to the people he’s known all his life, he rediscovers Cara and realizes the love he once felt for her is still deeply embedded within his heart.
Dayne faces men unwilling to turn their backs on the cult training he despises. Cara faces men who follow their leader in abuse toward their wives and the young girls of the group. Cara is considered rebellious and inappropriate to befriend. Dayne is the apple of Elder Simmons’ eye—until he takes a stand against their teachings.

Can Dayne’s love for Caralynne bridge the gulf of anger and bitterness that divides the
community? Or will Caralynne’s deadly secrets prove too high a price for her redemption?

Purchase link:
https://amzn.to/2IQk3i2

About the Author

Besides being a member and active participant of many writing groups, Carole Brown enjoys mentoring beginning writers. An author of ten books, she loves to weave suspense and tough topics into her books, along with a touch of romance and whimsy, and is always on the lookout for outstanding titles and catchy ideas. She and her husband reside in SE Ohio but have ministered and counseled nationally and internationally. Together, they enjoy their grandsons, traveling, gardening, good food, the simple life, and did she mention their grandsons?

Haven of Rest Celebrate Lit Book Tour

Posted on September 24, 2019September 23, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

Author Faith Blum has written a Biblical fiction with Haven of Rest. It tells the story of Adah, King David’s daughter who is desperately seeking attention from her regal father or Abba. She comes up with schemes and plans to accomplish that. What happens is she finds a God, Adonai and develops a deep relationship with Him.

This is a short book or novella. It has an interesting view of King David’s personal family and family life. The characters were realistic and my heart went out to the daughters. They really missed their father. It is hard to imagine having so many siblings, and especially being treated differently if you were a daughter instead of a son.

Author Blum has a nice writing style. While her story is biblically based she has taken several writing liberties with her story. That happens a lot with Biblical fiction it seems. I am not a fan of changing the Bible stories because people that aren’t familiar with the true scriptural account will be misguided.

Haven of Rest is Book #4 in the author’s Tales of the East Series. I have not read the other books and had no trouble reading this as a stand-alone. It is a short book and rather quick read.

I would recommend it to fans of Biblical fictions. It is an interesting view on what might have been. From me it received a 3 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but this is my honest opinion.

Click here to get your copy

About the Book

Book: Haven of Rest

Author: Faith Blum

Genre: Biblical fiction

Release Date: July 26, 2019

Ignored by her father…

Adah was neglected by her abba and her brother. She must do something. All her previous plans have failed, but she won’t slip up this time. Since her abba is King David, author of many songs, what better way to gain his attention than pulling off a concert featuring twelve of his daughters?

As she plans, Adah’s discontentment grows. She throws herself into the work but worry edges into her heart anyway. Can Adah learn to rest in Adonai as her father? Will she learn contentment in all things?

About the Author

Faith Blum is a small-town Wisconsin girl. She has independently published over 25 books in over five years. Most of her books are Christian Historical Fiction with an emphasis on Westerns. During an eBook sale, she was #1 in Christian Westerns and Christian Western Anthologies on Amazon. During that sale, she sold over 3,000 copies.

Faith currently resides in Central Wisconsin with her husband and their cat, Smokey. When not writing, you can find her cooking food from scratch due to food allergies, doing dishes, knitting, crocheting, sewing, reading, or spending time with her husband. She loves to hear from her readers, so feel free to contact her on her website:https://faithblum.com.

More from Faith

The Haven of Rest was inspired by a friend. I wanted another fairy tale to retelling for my series, but had run out of ideas and she mentioned the 12 Dancing Princesses and how they 12 girls could be 12 daughters of King David. It took a little while, but the idea soon grew into this story.

I do take liberties throughout the story. It is a Biblical Fiction story, and I tried hard to keep to those roots and keep it accurate throughout, including for the betrothals and weddings. However, a few liberties I took were:

Giving King David more daughters than are mentioned. I did have Tamar be one of the daughters.
Creating a backstory for Amnon’s obsession with Tamar.
Showing that King David was a flawed man who was not a good father. Although this isn’t stated outright in the Bible, it is definitely implied by the rebellion three of his sons showed and his lax discipline of Amnon after his rape of Tamar.
The other liberty I took is a spoiler for the end of the book, so you will have to read the book to find out what that was. I do explain my reasoning of that one in the Historical Note at the end of the book.

I really enjoyed writing this story and hope you enjoy reading it!

Blog Stops

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 21

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 22

All 4 and About Books, September 23 (Author Interview)

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, September 24

Wishful Endings, September 25 (Author Interview)

A Reader’s Brain, September 26

Inklings and notions , September 27

Through the Fire Blogs, September 28

Mary Hake, September 29

Lukewarm Tea, September 30 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, October 1

Purposeful Learning, October 2

janicesbookreviews, October 3

Just the Write Escape, October 4

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Faith is giving away a themed basket with two plastic canvas heart bookmarks, a paperback copy of the book, and a crocheted doily!!

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/eb98/haven-of-rest-celebration-tour-giveaway

God’s Rebel by Michelle Janene Book Review

Posted on September 22, 2019September 22, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

This is the first book I have read by author Michelle Janene. God’s Rebel is a tale of good verses evil literally. It is about demons and evil spirit possession and is set in the Middle Ages. This is Book One in the author’s Changed Heart Series. I wasn’t certain what to expect, but this was a gritty, bone chilling tale when it came to the evil parts. The good parts were heartwarming and God glorifying.

The main character in this book was dubbed Mariamne. She did not tell her name so one was given to her. The author did an excellent job describing her and her hard life. She was unjustly taken as a slave and abused by men. Unfortunately she does not know God, but knows the Evil One and he knows her.

Since it is set in the Middle Ages there are knights that come to her aid and show her that not all men are bad. The characters are well developed and realistic for that era. It is a heart wrenching story and was an emotional read. This is the story of love, redemption, and God searching for a His lost children.

I would definitely recommend this short book to adults. The evil warfare might be too much for a young teenager. It could give them nightmares if they read it before going to bed. I rated it a 4 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but this is my honest opinion.

To purchase the book: https://amzn.to/2Yi16u2

About the Book:

She is a woman without a name. Chosen by men for her beauty, she refused to bend to their desires. Beaten and sold to a slave trader, she is left to die in a putrid dungeon.

Everything changes when she’s purchased by the thane of a foreign king and given a Jewish name.

The king needs her to save his kingdom. God calls her to an unimaginable future. Evil wants her for itself, and if it can’t have her, it will kill her. Mariamne wants none of the possibilities she’s offered.

Mariamne needs only to surrender to achieve an amazing destiny.

About the Author:

Michelle Janene lives and works in Northern California, though most days she blissfully exists in the medieval creations of her mind. She is a devoted teacher, a dysfunctional housekeeper, and a dedicated writer. She released her first novella, Mission: Mistaken Identity, in the fall of 2015, and has been published in several anthologies. She leads two critique groups and is the founder of Strong Tower Press—Indie solutions for indie authors.

Social Media:

http://www.facebook.com/MichelleJaneneNovelist/

twitter.com/MichelleJaneneM

http://www.pinterest.com/michellejanene/

Texas Tears Celebrate Lit Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted on September 20, 2019September 19, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Welcome to my stop on Celebrate Lit’s Book Tour for Texas Tears by author Caryl McAdoo. You will find information on this wonderful book and exquisite author. She has a generous giveaway so be sure to sign up. Grand prize is $50 gift card. There are four other prizes, too.

My Thoughts

Texas Tears is the second book in the Thanksgiving Books and Blessings Series featuring multiple authors. It is written by award winning, best selling author Caryl McAdoo. In this Christian Historical Western Romance, she again delivers a page turning novel.

In this story we meet Charity and Arlene, best friends. They both are interested in “Hart” Eberhart. Hart has an interfering mother. She tries to sway him in his decision about the girls. They begin the book a bit immature and bratty, but they are still sweet. There is also Landry from Louisiana as well as a cast of parents.

All of the characters are unique, well rounded, and realistic. Author McAdoo has a way of bringing her people to life on the pages. They become friends. I wanted to have a chat with the girls and their parents. Even Hart was someone with whom I wanted to have a conversation.

There are lovely inspirational messages in this novel. That is one of my favorite things about McAdoo’s writing. She writes to bring glory to God and to inspire her readers. Messages of trusting the future to God, forgiveness, redemption, respecting parents, living in unity and peace, and being unequally yoked are just a few packed into this delightful Christian sweet romance.

It did take me a few pages to get invested in this story. If you find that you start reading it and aren’t quite interested, please keep reading. It turns into a fascinating story that you will not want to put down.

I highly recommend this book. It is appropriate for teenagers and adults. Everyone will enjoy it and glean inspiration from the messages it holds. Caryl McAdoo is an exceptionally gifted writer, and this book is another great labor of love. It gets a 5 out of 5 stars from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but this is my honest opinion.

About the Book

Book: Texas Tears

Author: Caryl McAdoo

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: September 2, 2019

Just like Mexico and the U.S. wanted the Republic of Texas; best friends Charity and Arlene want the same man. Who will Texas choose? Who will the man? Will Eberhart de Priest, the object of the young ladies’ desires, follow his heart or his mother’s advice? And what of the interloper from New Orleans who knows exactly whom he loves? Can a Christian find happiness with a non-believer? Only the Lord knows the future, but He does give the desires of the heart to those who delight in Him.

Click here to grab your copy.

About the Author

Caryl McAdoo prays her story brings God glory—what she lives to do. Her award-winning, best-selling novels enjoy a lion’s share of 5-Star ratings from Christian readers around the world. With forty-five titles, it’s obvious she loves writing almost as much as singing the new songs the Lord gives her—listen to a few at YouTube. ‘Golden husband Ron shares four children and eighteen grandsugars. 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

TEXAS TEARS includes the vote to enter the Union or remain a Republic in 1845. Though it ended in an overwhelming approval to become a state, believe you me, tears fell all over Texas and have been falling since for some.

As a semi-closet secessionist, it wouldn’t bother me if the Texas Legislature voted tomorrow to become the Second Republic of Texas! There are plenty of true radicals living today in the Lone Star State who work diligently daily toward that end!

Anyway, tears also fell in the new Texas community where the four families first met in GONE TO TEXAS—the O’Neals, Van Zandts, Worleys, and Harrells—have been settling in five years. One of their own, Thomas Baldwin (introduced in book two, TEXAS MY TEXAS) represented them in the Texas Congress, going to Washington on the Brazos to vote!

Not all the tears that fell in that growing community were over the vote, but rather a man who came riding in on a magnificent black stallion. Eberhart de Vecchi was tall, handsome, and a perfect Prince Charming who swept the two young coming-of-age women there right off their high-topped shoes!

Friends their whole lives, the older, Charity O’Neal, claimed him right off, but Arlene Van Zandt the younger—only by six months and three days—who’s always given in before isn’t ready to acquiesce so quickly in this instance, smitten as she is.

And so, thar’s trouble in them thar hills! To thicken the sludge, enters the hard-working Landry Humble, Monroe’s (also introduced in book two TEXAS MY TEXAS) nephew. This young man, able to pick more than twice his weight in cotton in a day, knows immediately which lovely he wants.

My, my, my . . . the tears do fall in Texas, and not everyone can have a happy ending. Or can they?