CelebrateLit Tour: Be the Miracle by Delores Liesner

Posted on September 19, 2018September 12, 2018 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

About the Book

Be the Miracle

Book Title: Be the Miracle

Author: Delores Liesner

Genre: Non-fiction, Christian living, devotional

Release date: June 1, 2018

Whether we title these unexplainable happenings miracles, God-sightings, or some other name, people love to hear of such occurrences. Why? They increase our faith by providing evidence of the miraculous in our everyday lives and heighten awareness of God’s desire to minister personally to us and through us.

Delores Liesner is a prayer warrior with a track record of seeing Christ work in her life and the lives of others. Her articles, devotions, and columns reflect the excitement of seeing miracles transpire, and now her book chronicles many of these amazing experiences. You’ll enjoy it.—Dr. Dennis E. Hensley, author, Jesus in the 9 to 5

My time with God in the morning is the most precious part of my day. Be The Miracle is a devotional filled with wonderful personal stories that will build your faith and stir your heart to receive fresh grace from God and be on the lookout for new ways to serve Him each day.—Dan Walsh, bestselling author, The Unfinished Gift, Remembering Christmas, and The Dance

Miracles happen all around us, every single day if we’ll only be sensitive enough to recognize them and thank God for His divine intervention. Author Delores Liesner shows us that whether a miracle comes as the smallest kiss from heaven or a life-changing act of God, our Heavenly Father is still in the prayer answering business, and as the Word says: ‘We have not because we ask not.’ I love this book! It makes me want to shout about all of the times God has come through for me. It will encourage you, too! It’s a must read! —Michelle Medlock Adams, award-winning, best-selling author of more than 80 books including her latest Get Your Spirit On! Devotions for Cheerleaders and Love & Care For the One and Only You

Click here to purchase your copy!

My Review

Be the Miracle by author Delores Liesner is a delightful book. It is the first work I have read by this author. This nonfiction inspirational, devotional book is filled with story after story of how God uses His people to bless others. It brought tears to my eyes and a warmth to my heart. I loved it!

Packed with examples of God’s love and miracles this devotional is certain to uplift any reader. There are so many wonderful stories it is difficult to pick a favorite. I love the way the author turns everything to God’s glory in this faith filled book.

It would be a wonderful book to discuss as a group. I found myself wanting to call my best friend and ask “did you read about the cupcakes yet?” My eyes were flooded with happy tears and often I raised my hand in praise as I read this beautiful book.

The author has a pleasant, smooth style of writing. It is easy to understand and flows just like a conversation over coffee or tea. Her stories were from both the giver and recipient viewpoints. Some stories she received the blessing while other she was able to give it.

In her book, she tells readers how God speaks to her, loves everyone, and gives us freedom to choose. She challenges us to listen and hear God. Then she wants us to go the next step and obey. Journaling is encouraged and she leaves space for just that. Scripture is heave in this book as it should be.

I highly recommend it. This can be read individually or in a group Bible study with each story having a life lesson, a scripture and challenge with journal pages to write your own thoughts or miracles. This would make a great Christmas gift for a reader. I rate it a 5 out of 5 stars.

A copy was provided by CelebrateLit, but I was under no obligation to write a favorable review. These are my own, honest thoughts.

About the Author

Delores is a storyteller. Her passion, whether writing or speaking about activating faith is to be the miracle for others.

Over a thousand of those stories, devotionals, and teaching articles are published in print and online, including a compilation of 31 stories and life-changing challenges in her devotional, Be the Miracle! (Elk Lake Publishing). Delores is often spotted reading (3-5 books at a time), trying new recipes, or munching dark chocolate and orange peel. Her personal ministry is to benefit children with life-threatening illness via Fullness of Life Foundation, Scottsdale, AZ

Guest Post from the Delores

Would you believe a cow turned me into a miracle-believing lady? Though I’d always known about Jesus dying on the cross, and the Bible being God’s words, it took a couple of amazing and unexplainable events for me to understand miracles could happen to me!

We didn’t realize we were risk taking when we hopped in the car and headed for Colorado. Youthful and ignorant˜ in the ways of the world, we were excited to learn that the organization who produced the memory verse cards and Bible studies our friend had given us were having a conference that began the next day, we packed up and went! A startled young man answered our phone call, made when we were already half-way across the country and got to thinking maybe we should have told them we were coming!

The conference was full, but separate rooms across campus were found for us. Consequently we only sat by each other during meetings and some meals, so we didn’t compare notes until on the way home. That was when we both started sharing the same message from God – to give a certain amount to a missionary for 6 months. We did not have the money and the only amount in our budget that matched was groceries. Would God ask us to give up groceries for 6 months? We felt He would, so that He could surprise us with the provisions in a most unexpected way – like sending a cow!

That is a bit of a teaser for Surprise Us for Dinner, God, the first story in my upcoming 31-day personal challenge devotional, Be The Miracle! You see, when God did that miracle-series at the beginning of our Christian life, we knew He was real, and that He dealt with people on a personal level. If God could do this, we figured, He could do anything, and we have many amazing stories that prove it!

Each of the stories is a true incident of God leading me to bless someone else (often a stranger, but sometimes someone we knew), or someone bringing us an unexpected answer to prayer.

When I began sharing stories like You’re the One, The Wrong Store?, Stranger No More, and Impossible Dreams, there were two main responses. Some women were excited to relate to stories of miracles in their own lives, and some women wondered if God would do miracles through them too.

I always share that I do not believe God is a giant get your prayers answered here vending machine, serving us just to make us ‘happy.’ The joy in these stories, and their life challenges, is that God wants all of his followers to be His hands and feet (and less often his voice) in the world. Just as we can represent our spouses with our children, and our supervisors with the public or with other employees because we know them so well, and understand how they would respond to a situation, we can know God in such a personal way that we can represent Him to others too.

That takes time. And that is why each story is followed with a verse, its teaching and a challenge you can follow to recognize and activate God’s command and gift to be “the miracle” – the messenger delivering an answer to prayer.

Blog Stops

Just the Write Escape, September 13

Mary Hake, September 14

Because I said so – adventures in parenting , September 15

proud to be an autism mom, September 16

Real World Bible Study, September 17

Bigreadersite, September 18

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, September 19

Captive Dreams Window, September 19

Texas Book-aholic, September 20

Bibliophile Reviews, September 21

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 22

Janices book reviews, September 23

Carpe Diem, September 24

A Baker’s Perspective, September 25

A Diva’s Heart, September 26

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To celebrate her tour, Delores is giving away

Grand Prize: Vertical Be the Miracle plaque, miracle magnet, Be the Miracle stamped cuff bracelet, a eternity circle necklace and Ebook or paperback copy of Be the Miracle

First: Gold miracle plaque, choice of Ebook or paperback of Be the Miracle, and shoe bracelet (be hands and feet of Jesus)

Second: Pink miracle plaque, choice of Ebook or paperback of Be the Miracle, and cross ribbon bookmark

Third: Blue background – Bee the Miracle canvas and Bee pin – choice of Ebook or paperback of Be the Miracle!!

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/d436/be-the-miracle-celebration-tour-giveaway

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Must Read Monday: Gone to Texas

Posted on September 17, 2018September 17, 2018 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

About the Book

Book Title: Gone to Texas

Author: Caryl McAdoo

Genre: Historical Romance CBE995B0-9CE3-469C-A5B0-700939423E6C

Release date: September 6, 2018

Can beauty truly come from ashes?

Deception drives seventeen souls to hard choices. Either stay on the land they thought they’d bought or heed the lure of free land in the faraway wilderness of a new Republic. Rife with peril and hardship, three families knit together by blood and friendship head out with a widowed man, daughter, and his slave, gambling everything they own on the prospect of land ownership and working it together. Does friendship pave a way to marriage? Can puppy-love survive through a harrowing journey to blossom into a forever lover? With duress at every turn, can the clan stay together all the way to Texas and accomplish their goals?

Click here to purchase your copy.

My Review

Gone to Texas is Book One in the Thanksgiving Books & Blessings Collection, a part of Cross Timbers Romance Family Saga. The Christian historical novel is written by master wordsmith author Caryl Macadoo. She does not disappoint with this one. It is another God glorifying, inspirational, entertaining book. Even the cover is just beautiful.

Set pre-Civil War, this is the tale of families leaving Tennessee and journeying to Texas. The characters are plentiful and at times hard to remember because of the large number. Once I got to know them, I had everyone straight. They are well described, lovable, flawed, and realistic. The story centers around the O’Neal, Worley, and Van Zandt clan, as they venture together to Texas. After a few pages I was all into this tale. I did not want to put it down until I had finished it.

Have you ever wanted to go on a wagon trip? As we can imagine the wagon expedition is not an easy one. Author Macadoo brings it to life with her vivid descriptions and verbiage. Wildlife, river crossings, ailments, rebelous teenagers and disappointments were all company on this trip. Author Macadoo’s writing took me right into the midst of it all! The trials encountered, both physical and emotional, were easy to understand and emphasize. The triumphs were equally felt and celebrated with these families. These families dealt with things we do today, tragedy, envy, unfaithfulness, wavering faith, jealousy, weariness, compassion, forgiveness, compassion, and redemption. The encouragement and Christian messages are abundant which are things I crave in Christian fiction.

This is a very well organized, well planned, and well researched book. Caryl McAdoo’s novels always teach me something. That is important to me as a reader. The conversation between characters was plentiful and flowed smoothly. Her use of colloquialisms makes her stories a true joy. I loved them! She has a down to earth style of writing that makes reading her books so enjoyable. There will always be some laughter tucked into her story to brighten a reader’s day. She includes scripture and things to deepen readers’ walk with God. It is easy to find things to ponder and think about long after finishing this book.

I would definitely recommend this one. It has great characters in which I immediately became invested. I want more of them! Alisha and Liberty became like old friends. This is a sweet historical romance with adventure that you don’t want to miss. My rating is 5 out of 5 stars.

I received this book from CelebrateLit. However, I was under no obligation to post a review. All opinions are my own, honest ones.

About the Author

Top priority is God’s glory, and that’s exactly what Caryl McAdoo prays her stories will bring. To entertain and draw readers into a closer walk with Him is next. A quick check of stars and reviews attest to the success of this award-winning, best-selling author—all by the Father’s faithfulness. Besides writing, she loves singing praises, including the new songs He gives her! Visit her YouTube channel. Ron, her high school sweetheart husband won her heart fifty-two years ago, and they share four children and seventeen grandsugars. Ron and Caryl live on thirty-four acres ‘The Peaceable’ in the woods south of Clarksville, seat of Red River County in far Northeast Texas and wait expectantly for God to open the next door.

Guest Post from Caryl

As much as I hated leaving the Buckmeyers, Baylors, and Nightingales and the Red River Valley, I loved starting this fresh Family Saga series with all new characters! GONE TO TEXAS is Book One of the Cross Timber Romances and features three families—the O’Neals, Van Zandts, and Worleys—joined by blood and friendship through Liberty O’Neal. Laud Worley is her little brother and Mallory Van Zandt, her best friend since school days.

Together, they’d traveled south to settle in Tennessee and were about to harvest their first cotton crop that fall in 1840 when they discovered the deed to their land—the land they’d spent all their pooled savings on—was forged and no-good.

The legal owner graciously allows them to stay through harvest, taking his portion of their labor and cottonseed. At the gin, Seve Van Zandt hears rumors of Texas, a new Republic out west, offering free land to pioneers willing to tame its wildlands. This first story—book one—is all about their journey to the new country filled with hope and dreams.

A hired widower who with his daughter and slave helped harvest the clan’s cotton asked to join them on their journey, and so, on that fateful September morn, seventeen souls set out after they hung a hand-painted sign on one of the cabins they left behind. “Gone to Texas”!

Another very special thing about this novel, one hundred twelve thousand words—about three hundred fifty pages, is that it is also book one in a brand new collection! The Thanksgiving Books and Blessings Collection that includes stories from eight other authors besides me: Lena Nelson Dooly, Heather Blanton, Kristin Holt, Kit Morgan, Suzette Williams, Pauline Creeden, George McVey, and Lynette Sowell!

All nine books will have Thanksgiving Dinner with family around the table, giving thanks to God for all his blessings. I’ve noticed many series launched in December, but Thanksgiving is my favorite. I love giving thanks to the Lord!

And as always, I pray my story gives God glory, and that its readers will be drawn closer to Him through it. He blesses and highly favors me daily. I cannot thank or praise Him enough!

Thank you, too, for reading my stories, reviewing my stories, and participating in the most AWESOME CELEBRATE LIT‘s Blog Tour!!

Blog Stops

A Baker’s Perspective, September 11

Captive Dreams Window, September 12

proud to be an autism mom, September 12

Inklings and notions, September 13

Luv’N Lambert Life, September 13

cherylbbookblog, September 14

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, September 14

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 15

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 15

Janices book reviews, September 16

Abba’s prayer warrior princess, September 17

Carpe Diem, September 17

Creating Romance, September 18

Madeline Clark, September 18

Margaret Kazmierczak, September 19

The Mimosa Blossom, September 20

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, September 20

Back Porch Reads, September 21

Bibliophile Reviews, September 22

Texas Book-aholic, September 23

Godly Book Reviews, September 24

Bigreadersite, September 24

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Caryl is giving away

GRAND PRIZE: $50 Amazon Gift Card

1st Prize: THREE Choice-of-Caryl’s Titles (print–US only or eBook)

2nd-4th: ebook of JOHN DAVID’S CALLING

5th-7th: print copy VOW UNBROKEN

8th-10th: $5 Amazon gift cards!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops to earn nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter. https://promosimple.com/ps/d1a6/gone-to-texas-celebration-tour-giveaway

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Find a Book Friday: The Life-Giving Leader

Posted on September 14, 2018September 13, 2018 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Are you a leader in any form in your life? Most of us are in one way or another. Whether at work, church, or home at one point we are given the reins and people look to us for directions. The Life-Giving Leader by author Tyler Reagin is a 208 page book published by Waterbrook Press to help leaders assist others. Author Reagin is the president of Catalyst, a leadership development organization that exists to unify and equip leaders who love the Church. Until reading this book, I was unfamiliar with him and his organization.

This is not your typical leadership book. In The Life-Giving Leader we see what happens to a team or individual’s under a good leader. Normally in leadership books the focus is on the leader and what he or she accomplished. This one is just as much about the people on the team and how the leader has changed their lives by example.

The writer’s style was a bit difficult for me. It was more abrupt and seemed a bit uneven. After acclimating myself to it, I got in the grove and it became easier to understand. A rocky start did not stop me from gleaning a lot from this helpful book. I had many highlighted pages after finishing it where I found words of wisdom. Here are some of my favorites:

“Life-giving leadership is all about staying in deep relationship with our Heavenly Father so we can love those around us best and bring life to the people God has put in our circle of influence.” (Page 21)

“Life-giving leaders make people around them shine.” (Page 24)

“Life-giving leadership begins with self-awareness and self-acceptance, nonnegotiable hallmarks of authentic leadership.” (Page 50)

“Self-awareness is the foundation for a lifetime of leading well.” (Page 52)

This book is sprinkled with scripture rather than having the heavy handed dose I had hoped. The author gives food for thought and growth both personally and as a leader. He uses personal stories, life experiences, contemporary references, and even tells us what did not work for him. He holds nothing back. Anyone would benefit from parts of this book.

I recommend this to leaders, aspiring leaders, and anyone wanting to improve people skills. Actually, everyone will glean something from this book if only to realize that we are all a leader of some sort.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Waterbrook for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

Shadow Sister by Katherine Scott Jones

Posted on September 10, 2018September 10, 2018 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Shadow Sister is the first novel by author Katherine Scott Jones that I have had the pleasure of reading. It was a haunting story that has stayed with me long after finishing it. Filled with family, suspense, secrets, love, hope, grace, and redemption. It is beautifully written and unlike anything I have read. Shadow Sister is a 365 page Christian Fiction packed with intrigue, sadness, and grief, but there is the element of forgiveness and reassurance of God’s love and the importance of family.

Author Jones alternates between past and present, tenses, and people in the telling of this inspiring story. It took me a few chapters to become invested, but then I was all in. The characters were described so well that they came to life on the pages. I have never been to Bolivia but feel like I have now. The author has a descriptive writing style that is engaging.

This is the tale of two close sisters, Jenna and Sarah Lanning. Misunderstandings drove them apart. The emotions transferred from the characters to me, and I was saddened. The mystery that kept me reading was what could do this to sisters. Unfortunately family disagreements and grudges go back to Bible times.

Jenna was part of a Christian organization that helps people in third-world countries get clean, water, something Americans take for granted. In Bolivia she encounters superstitions, harsh conditions, injustice, and creepy crawlers. After some tragic news Sarah goes to Bolivia.

I really liked the Christian element and inspiration in this book. If a book is classified as Christian I don’t want it lightly sprinkling it. Give me a heavy handed dose. This book did. Encouraging me to draw closer to God and help others was a result of reading this. Valuing family even more and realizing the preciousness of time spent together stuck with me.

Yes, I would definitely recommend this book. The subject matter and descriptions seem to me better suited for older teens and adults. Parts of the book were hard for me to read, realistic as they might be. I rated it 4 out of 5 stars and will definitely be reading more from this author.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book from the author through CelebrateLit Tours. I was not required to write a positive review. The review and opinions are my own honest ones.

About the Book

Working on her father’s vineyard allows Sarah Lanning to bury memories of a lost love and a career that might have been. But then her fractured family receives word that her estranged sister, Jenna, is dead, leaving behind an unexpected request: that Sarah travel to Bolivia to scatter her ashes. Accompanied by pilot Chase Maddox, Sarah embarks on an Andean journey that tests her devotion to home and exposes Jenna’s secret life. Each staggering discovery creates new mysteries—until the last, which leaves Sarah questioning everything she understood about family loyalty. At a crossroads, she must decide whether truth is worth the cost of forgiveness—and whether she can lay claim to a future of happiness without it.

Purchase your copy here: Amazon: Shadow Sister * Christian Book Distributor: Shadow Sister

Giveaway:

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To celebrate her tour, Katherine is giving away a grand prize that includes a personalized signed print copy of the book, a Shadow Sister bookmark, a Frame-able print, Book-lover’s tea, 6 Handcrafted notecards, and a set of vineyard-themed playing cards!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click link below to enter. https://promosimple.com/ps/d25f/shadow-sister-celebration-tour-giveaway

About the Author

Katherine Scott Jones grew up in cities on every U.S. coast and overseas as her family moved with her father’s Navy career. Seattle became home when she married her husband twenty-eight years ago. After graduating Whitworth University with a degree in communications, she established herself as a freelance writer before turning her hand to fiction. She blogs about books that celebrate beauty at www.katherinescottjones.com. Katherine and her husband have two teenage children. Shadow Sister is her second novel.

Connect with Katherine here: Website

Guest Post from Katherine Scott Jones

Shadow Sister: Outtake Reel

By Katherine Scott Jones

Much as I love a good movie, my favorite part often comes at the end when the director includes outtakes—those false starts and bits from the making of the movie that wind up on the cutting room floor.

In a similar vein, I’m going to let you in on some of what went into the creation of my novel, Shadow Sister, but did not make the final cut.

Shadow Sister is a work of inspirational women’s fiction with a global accent—written for women with a heart for complex relational issues as well as a passion for biblical justice. It is the story of a vintner’s daughter who travels to Bolivia to scatter her estranged sister’s ashes. There, she unravels secrets that test her devotion to home and make her question whether truth is worth the cost of forgiveness. Shadow Sister explores the mysteries of the human heart and the bond of unquenchable love.

Now that you know a bit about what it is, come along as I pull back the curtain and share an exclusive peek at what Shadow Sister is not.

Working Titles

It took me a while to finally land on the right title. Early contenders:

– The Sweetness of Light

– Variations on Shadows and Light.

Characters

It also took a bit of experimenting before I found the right combination of people and places:

– Sarah, the main character, was originally a marine biologist. I first imagined the story set in Seattle before moving it to the fertile plains of Eastern Washington wine country.

– Sarah was originally engaged; and Chase and Rachael were involved.

– The gender of Matilde’s baby changed from what I first plotted. That simple switch got me unstuck from a perplexing snag of writer’s block.

– Names:

o Nicole, Stasi, Rees, and Stephen were all main-character names I considered and rejected.

o Little sister Sarah and big sister Jenna began as litter sister Jenna and big sister Kate. Then Jenna became Somer and finally Sarah, while Kate became Jenna.

o Sassy Britches is named after an actual racehorse by the same name.

Unused research

Of course, story exploration turned up far more tidbits of interesting info than I could possibly fit into the pages of a novel! Some of what I wished I could have used…

– Bolivian fun facts

o Customs.

Bolivians tend to eat outdoors when it is not raining. Many men do not feel comfortable eating in front of strangers, so they will often face a wall or sit hunched over their food when they are eating in public.
Cha’lla is a ritual blessing drawn from Catholic tradition, indigenous religious ceremony, or—typically—a combination of both. Performed by a yatiri (spiritual leader) or Catholic priest, a cha’lla ceremony is performed whenever a new building is finished to ensure future peace in that building.
Many Bolivians believe in karisirus, or night phantoms. These harmful spirits catch people out after dark or when they’re sleeping. Legend says that they split their victim’s stomach and extract some of the fat.

o Drinks. While the traditional Bolivian beverages api and mate de coca are featured in Shadow Sister, several others are not:

refresco (fruit juice with a dried peach at the bottom of the glass)
tostada (a mixture of barley, honey, cloves in water)
chicha (homemade corn beer)
singani (made from grapes, a cross between wine and whiskey)

o Language. Spanish, Aymara, and Quechua are Bolivia’s three national languages, and they differ from each other greatly. For example, the number one in Spanish = uno, Aymara = ma, Quechua = hoq.

– Quotes:

o On wine: “Wine is sunlight held together by water.” ~ Galileo

o On art: “Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.” ~ Thomas Merton

I hope this glimpse into what didn’t make it onto the pages of Shadow Sister piques your interest for discovering what finally did!

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 4

Carpe Diem, September 4

Reflections From My Bookshelves, September 5

The Power of Words, September 5

Among the Reads, September 5

Fiction Aficionado, September 6

The Becca Files, September 6

RebekahsQuill, September 7

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, September 7

Bigreadersite, September 7

Just the Write Escape, September 8

Jennifer Sienes: Where Crisis and Christ Collide, September 8

Bibliophile Reviews, September 9

Living Life Free in Christ, September 9

Inspirationally Ever After, September 10

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, September 10

Texas Book-aholic, September 11

Livin Lit, September 11

Janices book reviews, September 12

Remembrancy, September 12

All-of-a-kind Mom, September 13

Inklings and notions, September 13

The Midnight Bookaholic, September 14

Pause for Tales, September 14

The Mimosa Blossom, September 14

Kelly Harrel, September 15

Two Points of Interest, September 15

A Baker’s Perspective, September 16

proud to be an autism mom, September 16

Godly Book Reviews, September 17

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 17

Find a Book Friday: Ours for a Season by Kim Vogel Sawyer

Posted on August 31, 2018 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

If you are like me, you enjoy reading novels about different times, places, and ways of life. These fiction books provide information, and I always learn something. In author Kim Vogel Sawyer’s Ours for a Season, I was taken into a small part of the Old Order Mennonite world. It is part Amish but with a modern touch. In this novel, you will find a lot more depth than a normal fiction book. This is not your typical Amish or Mennonite story. It deals with real life issues in heavy doses. Anyone will be captivated with it.

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In Ours for a Season we meet Old Order Mennonite husband and wife, Anthony and Marty Hirschler. They are part of a small close knit community in Pine Hill, Indiana. They have lost a child and have not been able to have any other children. Doctors have confirmed they will not have any others. Each deal with this loss in a different way. Anthony pours himself into his construction business. Marty is battling depression and yearns for a child. She struggles with living in a community where children are so important as are large families. Their marriage is a bit rocky.

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Brooke Spalding, is a childhood friend and reconnects with Marty. She offers the Hirschlers an opportunity to get away from Indiana which they hope will mend their fragile relationship. Brooke has ulterior motives. This journey is a roller coaster one filled with twist and turns, mystery, faith, intrigue, action, hope, and love.

All of the characters in this exceptional book are so well conceived. It is easy to become invested in their lives. They come alive on the pages. The author has done a wonderful job with tackling so many issues we face in today’s life. Tough, heartbreaking issues. The message of redemption, trusting and turning to God is in the forefront of this hauntingly beautiful, power story. There is no confusion about whether or not this is a Christian novel. It absolutely is.

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I completely loved this emotionally charged story. It pulled, not tugged, on my heartstrings more than a few times. The author has done an exemplary job in researching, planning, and writing this novel. Her talent is evident in this “do not stop reading me” book. It drew me in within the first few chapters and I was hooked. Completely hooked.

This is a definitely yes, 5 star recommended book from me. With the issues broached I would lean toward teenagers and up as it might be too much for tweens to handle. The storyline is too good to share any more and ruin experiencing it for yourself. As I read this page turner, I kept saying WOW. Yes, it is a wow read that you need to experience yourself. Then find sometime to discuss it. Maybe a reading group. 54641D6B-7A59-4296-B104-CBFB182CC7DE

Must Read Monday: Daily Question for You & Your Child

Posted on August 27, 2018August 24, 2018 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

The Daily Question for You and Your Child by Waterbrook is a delightful daily journal for parent and child. This hardcover book has a place on its cute cover for a picture. The cover is designed so that both girls and boys may use it. While older kids will enjoy the questions, the cover will be a bit juvenile for them.

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Waterbrook has given customers a three year journal to mark the growth of children. Each date has a specific question along with places for three answers. One for each of three years. Parents with three children can adjust to include all three children in one book with replacing names for years.

It is a great interactive book. Questions include “What is your favorite thing God has created?” “What is your favorite shirt and why?” These are simple questions that would receive different answers as children grow and mature. It would make a nice keepsake for when the child has grown with a family of their own.

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Journals become a chore after a few weeks, but this one certainly has potential to stay the course. Questions could be asked before nightly prayers or at the dinner table. Even parents could get in on the discussion to aid in kids opening up more.

This book would make a great gift. As I stated earlier, it would make a treasured keepsake, too. Pick up two so that you could present a completed one and blank one to a mother or father-to-be. Grandparents would benefit from quality time discussing these questions, too. Parents would, too. Don’t all children need to spend time with their parents and grandparents talking about God?

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I highly recommend this for anyone with kiddos. The age is so widespread and depends on the person answering. I rated it a 5 out of 5 stars because I love sentimental, nostalgic things. Completed it would be a treasured book in this Gram’s library.

I received a complimentary copy from WaterbrookMultnomah. Opinions are my own, honest ones.

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Find a Book Friday: The Patriot Bride

Posted on August 24, 2018August 22, 2018 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Are you a lover of historical Christian fiction? When I say historical, I mean historical. Think founding fathers of this great nation of ours and you will be in the right mindset. The Patriot Bride by author Kimberley Woodhouse is a 256 pages Historical Christian Romance Fiction that follows the first three books in the Daughters of the Mayflower series. It opens with a family tree of the Mayflower Brides. I loved that. A visual cuts down on confusion especially with this being book four.

The Patriot Bride is the tale of Faith Jackson, a wealthy widow. Faith grew up following George Washington around wherever he went. Orphaned when she was a young girl, George was Faith’s caretaker. George becomes a protective big brother to Faith throughout the years. This is also the story of Matthew Weber, a friend of George’s. His mentor happens to be Benjamin Franklin, which livens things up in this book. Author Woodhouse has made Franklin’s character quite funny as he was said to be in real life.

This book is a true delight! It has adventure, intrigue, espionage , romance, history, and an inspirational message. All of this packed into one fabulous tale. Author Woodhouse has done her research impeccably. Her novel is well written with descriptions that sent me to the 1770’s. She detailed the daily struggles and trials people faced as well as the forthcoming war.

The characters are engaging, charming and relatable. Their interactions are smooth and authentic. The story contains other characters besides George Washington and Ben Franklin from history such as William Franklin and Paul Revere. They do not have as major roles as the former. Of course, we must not forget the ladies. They have Bible studies or readings in their elaborate homes. Dressed in beautiful silk gowns, sipping tea, with lovely manners, these same gracious ladies run out into the night on to carry messages to spies. I wanted to have tea, study the Bible, and chat with these brave, beautiful spitfires.

Inspirational messages and encouragement are woven throughout this tale. Praying, trusting in God, and having faith are among them. Waiting on God’s perfect timing and not jumping ahead on our own is one that will resonate with many. The author has done a nice job planning and organizing this storyline to include life lessons and spiritual ones.

I was drawn into this fascinating book within a few pages and did not want to stop reading. The Patriot Bride is a novel I highly recommend. The characters become friends, the setting is so well written you will think you have been to Boston during the 1770’s, the messages are still timely for today, and the history is plentiful right down to the Declaration of Independence. I happily rate this 5 out of 5 stars. Pick up a copy for yourself. If you like history and being swept away in a book, you will love this!

Must Read Monday: The Fashion Designer by Nancy Moser

Posted on August 6, 2018August 2, 2018 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

The Fashion Designer by author Nancy Moser is Book Two following The Pattern Artist. Even though it is a sequel it could be read as a stand alone because the author provides enough information about prior events to allow readers to follow along easily. This historical Christian fiction focuses on not only fashion but women’s rights, inspiration, faith, and character.

This book has been extremely well researched by author Moser. It is well planned, organized, and well thought. The novel is packed with historical details. Detailed descriptions of the time period and place took me right there. It was as if I had left my porch swing and was transported back in time to New York City in 1912 when women were still fighting for our rights.

The characters are well rounded and defined. The heroine, Annie, wants to design clothing that the normal, everyday woman can afford. Even more scandalously she has plans to make a maternity line for those expecting. This was definitely an eye opening experience reading about how much things have changed.

Faith is sprinkled throughout “The Fashion Designer”. Some characters walk the Christian Walk and it is evident. Others hide their light or not know God. The main characters discuss their faith, pray, have faith and trust God. It is inspiring and encouraging in many parts.

Some tough issues are broached in this book. Issues that unfortunately woman have always struggled with such as domestic abuse, marital issues, pregnancy problems, rape, and self esteem. It was difficult to read how a husband treated his wife, but I am certain worse things actually happen. For some people these topics might really hit close to home so they should be aware of this content. There are definitely adult situations in this book. Things such as smoking, drinking, rape, abuse, and losing one’s virginity should encourage you to steer younger readers away from this book.

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This was a delightful, emotional tale of a time period I knew little about before but have learned much since reading this book. I enjoyed the author’s style and characters. The faith and inspiration were wonderful. The adult themes were a bit too dark for this reader, but I would imagine it was true to life. Everything is not always sunshine and puppies in the read world so why should we expect that of our books?

Book One, The Pattern Artist, was a wonderful story, too. Both books may be read as stand alone, but together they make a powerful tale. This is a redemption story. A second chances can happen tale. It isn’t a fluffy light chicklet book, but a heavy dose of ponder on this long after you’ve finished it book. It is haunting in parts. This is a book most women would enjoy reading in a book club so that they could discuss it. It isn’t a light romance. This is a heavy thought provoking inspirational book. I highly recommend it and rated it 4 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Barbour for my honest opinion.

Find a Book Friday: My Heart Belongs in Galveston, Texas – Madeline’s Search

Posted on August 3, 2018August 1, 2018 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Have you ever been to Galveston, Texas before and seen all of the sights? Before you say yes, let me continue….in the year 1880? That is a place in time none of us have ever been, but after reading this novel we will all feel as if we had. That, my friends, is the result of a good book. My Heart Belongs in Galveston, Texas – Madeline’s Search by author Kathleen Y’Barbo is 256 pages of Christian fiction that will pick you up and take you on a journey to 1880 Texas. You will be in the heart of action, mystery, intrigue, and even romance.

Author Kathleen Y’Barbo has a unique style of writing, and I find it to be to my taste. Her descriptions are on point and characters are well defined. The dialog is plentiful and flowed easily between characters. That makes a book more interesting for me. The story had been researched well so that each detail would put me in 1880 Galveston. I learned some things which I find to be a bonus in historical books. It is always a treat to glean knowledge while reading for pleasure. Don’t you agree?

This is the tale of Pinkerton Agent Jonah Cahill and investigative reporter Madeline Latour. Jonah is employed by Mrs. Smith to find her granddaughter. Madeline is the illusive Mrs. Smith’s traveling companion in hopes of obtaining the story of a lifetime, an exclusive first hand account about this woman and all of her secrets. Jonah normally travels alone while working, but Mrs. Smith insists that she and Madeline accompany him in his search for her granddaughter. Who could refuse Mrs. Smith? Certainly not Jonah.

In this book a secret about Madeline and Jonah is revealed. It adds an extra layer of tension and conflict which heightens readers interest and kept me invested in their lives. This novel have something for everyone – intrigue, mystery, secrets, romance, twists, life lessons, and encouragement. I found lost treasures, lost loves, and a wealth of historical information.

I would recommend this book. It is a delightful historical Christian mystery romance. There is something for everyone within its pages. Read it in a group or with friends so that you could discuss the “can you believe that just happened” moments. It turns into quite the page turner after reading a few chapters. I rated it a 4 out of 5 stars.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. These are my own honest opinions.

HeartWings Devotional by Joyce Graves, Caryl McAdoo, Nyla Kay Wilkerson, and twenty seven other Co-Hearts

Posted on July 30, 2018July 30, 2018 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Today I am thrilled to introduce you to Heart“wings” Devotional, Volume 1, a collection of devotions by Heart“wings” Blog Co-Hearts. There are thirty contributing authors and I am honored to be included in that number. Have you heard of the Christian women’s group on Facebook named Heart“wings” – a women’s fellowship? It is a wonderful God centered group founded by Joyce Graves, and as the group grew an additional companion group page was added called Heart”wings” – our readers’ nook. These pages or groups provide places for prayer requests, sister support, book reviews, author support, blogs, and other fine things. It offers prayer support and gives God glory for giving our heart wings to soar. “As His daughters, we use our ‘wings’ of love to make a difference.” I am one of the Heart“wings” sisters and Co-Hearts, which are the bloggers.

Recently our co-administrator Caryl McAdoo, undertook the monumental task of compiling Heart“wings” first devotional from our daily blogs. It is a beautiful red and white paperback of 281 pages. Within these many pages are over one hundred messages to help readers deepen their walk with God. Women from all ages, walks of life, and locations make up the blog team ministry. There are bloggers, authors, pastors, retired nurses, teachers and many more. The devotions written are personal, transparent, and true. They were written for encouragement and inspiration by women who love God wholeheartedly.

Each weekday has its own theme in the blog. Likewise our devotional is divided into Monday Memories & Ministries, Tuesday Testimonies, Wednesday Words, Thursday Thanks, and Friday Fellowship & Focus. The messages are as varied as the Co-Hearts, but each includes scripture and questions to ponder. After all of the messages is a listing of the Co-Hearts, complete with a short bio and picture.

Of course, I loved this fabulous book. It came from the group that has blessed me in more ways than I could tell you right now. The prayer support is immeasurable and floods Heaven for those in need. Often I have requested it for myself or a loved one. At times a blog seemed like it was custom written for me. Just what I needed to read on just the right day is never a coincidence. Instead of giving the author credit, I knew it was God using her as a vessel, and I thanked Him. The Co-Heart listened to Him and was able to use her “wings” to help me and countless others.

I hope you will give this inspiring devotional a try and then find that your time with Jesus deepens. It would make a lovely gift for a woman of any age. The topics and messages are relevant. They are meant to uplift, enlighten, educate, and some even to entertain. These devotions were written by women for women. Most importantly these were meant to bring Glory to God. Let me know what you think after you read it. Maybe you will be moved so much you will be led to write a devotion yourself. Please check out Heart“wings” on Facebook and message me, Joyce, Caryl, or Becky if you would like to join our sisterhood.

Joyce – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100009154950239

Caryl – https://www.facebook.com/caryl.mcadoo?ref=br_rs

or Becky – https://www.facebook.com/lelandandbecky

https://www.facebook.com/HeartWingsMinistry/

$14.99 at Amazon, released 7/24/18

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1720871272

http://www.heartwingsblog.com/