Grandparenting with a Purpose Celebrate Lit Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted on February 16, 2020February 15, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

Grandparenting with a Purpose, Effective Ways to Pray for Your Grandchildren by author Lillian Penner is a must read for all grandparents. Actually it is a great book for parents and others that love and pray for children. Aunts and uncles, Sunday school teachers, and friends will benefit from this book on praying for children.

The author provides practical tips and tools for praying for children as well as scripture. Her view is that praying for them and their parents is the best thing we can do for them. As a mother of two, Gram of four, and aunt to many, I readily agreed. I have been praying for mine since before they were born.

This book had me nodding my head in agreement and at times stopping my reading to pray. It is easy to read and understand, and it will move you. Scripture is freely used with examples of good parents and prayers. The questions at the end of the chapters are for personal study.

There three sections in this book: Grandparents Standing in the Gap with Prayer, Standing in the Gap with Intercessory Prayer, and Standing in the Gap for Grandchildren. Each section has relevant lessons. The end of the book is filled with a plethora of valuable information, worksheets, and reference material. Do not miss it.

A small group of grandparents or soon-to-be ones would richly benefit from this inspiring book. I will be purchasing it for shower gifts for grandparents. This fills a void that in today’s world cannot afford to remain empty. We must pray for our children and theirs.

I highly recommend this book. It gets a 5 out of 5 star rating from me. Every church library should have one in it. Anyone that loves a child should read it. If you do not know how to pray for someone, this is a great tool. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my honest words.

About the Book

Book: Grandparenting with a Purpose

Author: Lillian Penner

Genre: Non-fiction / Christian family and relationships

Release Date: June 6, 2015

Culture tends to shape our grandchildren by what it presents as normal, which is very different from the normal in which we grew up. But through prayer and godly counsel, grandparents who love the Lord can stand in the gap and help their grandchildren and their parents navigate their world and cultural influences.

Being a grandparent is a blessing—the grandchildren are so sweet, and we love the hugs and pictures. But these days, many grandparents have the added responsibility of raising their grandchildren, while others are restrained from seeing their grandkids. Grandparenting: Effective Ways to Pray for Your Grandchildren will share some insight into these difficult issues. And no matter your situation, God gives grandparents a sacred trust—an opportunity to imprint another generation with the message of His faithfulness.

From cell phones to photo prayer journals, you’ll find tools and Scriptures to pray intentionally for your grandchildren and their parents. Regardless of how far they live from you, your prayers can bridge the distance between you and leave your grandchildren with an inheritance more precious than gold.

Click here for your copy!

About the Author

Lillian Ann Penner is an author, speaker, and grandmother residing with her husband, John, in Portland, Oregon. They have been married for more than fifty years and have three married sons and nine grandchildren.

Penner is the national prayer coordinator for Christian Grandparenting Network (CGN), and she writes about her passion of intentional praying grandparents for CGN’s website. She is involved in leadership in the women’s Bible study, the fifty-five plus group in her church, and leads a Grandparents@Prayer group.

She has been active in church ministry for over fifty years, led an outreach ministry for young mothers, a mentoring ministry for women, and various other church ministries. She has participated in short term missions in Ukraine and volunteered with several Christian ministries.

She and her husband enjoy traveling, but most of all, enjoy spending time with their children and grandchildren.

More from Lillian

Finding Joy in Praying for my Grandchildren

What a joy it is to have that precious little grandchild come running into your arm with hugs and kisses. The six-year-old calling to tell you she lost her first tooth or your seven-year-old grandson excited about making his first goal in his soccer game.

In addition to senior discounts, grandchildren are one of the rewards of growing older. Mary H. Waldrip says it well, “Grandchildren are God’s way of compensating us for growing old.”

I now have nine grandchildren, ages ranging from sixteen years to thirty-eight years, four are married, and we have five great-granddaughters. As a long-distance grandmother for many years, I was not fully aware of my grandchildren’s immediate needs. I prayed that God would bless them, give them good health and protection. Ultimately, I became frustrated and felt something was lacking with my vague and general prayers. I asked God to show me how to become more deliberate in praying for them.

After reading books about grandparenting and prayer full of practical advice, I was encouraged to use specific Scriptures in praying for my grandchildren. The books motivated me to pray regularly for their emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being.

Best of all, praying God’s Word has enabled me to pray with His power, direction, and wisdom. As their grandparent, I can have a significant role in influencing their lives by praying for them during these turbulent years has given me fulfillment and satisfaction in praying for them.

The faith of our children is weakened in the classrooms; young adults raised in our hostile environment are walking away from God in record numbers. Hopelessness is prevalent, and our society is reeling from the opioid crisis, mass shootings, fatherlessness, divorce, and so much more.

Recognizing the urgent need for my grandchildren’s spiritual needs God gave me a passion of praying Scripture for my grandchildren. I felt God wanted me to share my passion with other grandparents so I wrote the book Grandparenting with a Purpose: Effective Ways to Pray for your Grandchildren about ten years ago. It has blessed and encouraged many grandparents. This past year I felt God wanted me to revise and expand the book, so I added the following chapters with a study guide for each chapter.

I have found there are many hurting estranged grandparents today with heavy hearts, so I am addressing that issue in a chapter. Is your grandparenting Painful or a blessing?
I include a section looking at a view of the culture our grandchildren and their parents are navigating today.
God’s Design for grandparenting plus several additional chapters and Scriptures to Pray for Teens and Scriptures for Grandparents to pray for themselves.

The book retails for $14.99. However, it is available for a discounted price of $15.00, including shipping and handling costs in the U. S. for a limited time. A bonus of a Scriptural Prayer resource will be included with your purchase. The book is available in EBook format for $3.99 for those who would prefer the EBook format or live outside the U. S. to save on shipping costs.

This book will challenge you and give you resources for the spiritual battle with the enemy. It will show you how to be an intentional disciple-maker and prayer warrior to impact the next generation.

Blog Stops

Wishful Endings, February 10 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 11

Artistic Nobody, February 12 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 13

Texas Book-aholic, February 14

Older & Smarter?, February 15

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, February 16

Blossoms and Blessings, February 17 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, February 18

deb’s Book Review, February 19

SusanK. Beatty, Author, February 20 (Author Interview)

Inklings and notions, February 21

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, February 22 (Author Interview)

Vicky Sluiter, February 23

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Lillian is giving away the grand prize of a signed 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/f5bd/grandparenting-with-a-purpose-celebration-tour-giveaway

Waltz in the Wilderness Celebrate Lit Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted on February 15, 2020February 14, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

Waltz in the Wilderness by author Kathleen Denly is a Christian Historical Romance and book One in the Chaparral Hearts Series. This is the first book I have read by the author and will not be the last. It was a delightful story that caught my attention immediately.

Author Denly has an impressive writing style. The story and characters drew me in from the beginning. Descriptions made things come to life without being boring. Her characters were likable, well rounded, and relatable. She includes twist and subplots that kept me turning pages to see what would happen next. Faith and God are not hidden in her novel. That is important in a Christian book.

Eliza Brooks is a strong, feisty woman with a strong protective love for her father. It is easy to live this character even with her flaws. Many times I found myself nodding or shaking my head as I read this book at the things she did.

Daniel Clarke is preparing to leave California and return to Boston. That is where he will be reunited with his family and fiancée. Plans change when Eliza veers him off his course.

This book is such a great story. It has danger, romance, mystery, history, and inspiration. At the end, there are questions for discussion. I love it when an author includes those. There is also a sample of the next book. I would highly recommend this captivating tale by author Denly. I rate it a 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my honest words.

About the Book

Book: Waltz in the Wilderness

Author: Kathleen Denly

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: February 4, 2020

She’s desperate to find her missing father. His conscience demands he risk all to help.

Eliza Brooks is haunted by her role in her mother’s death, so she’ll do anything to find her missing pa—even if it means sneaking aboard a southbound ship. When those meant to protect her abandon and betray her instead, a family friend’s unexpected assistance is a blessing she can’t refuse.

Daniel Clarke came to California to make his fortune, and a stable job as a San Francisco carpenter has earned him more than most have scraped from the local goldfields. But it’s been four years since he left Massachusetts and his fiancé is impatient for his return. Bound for home at last, Daniel Clarke finds his heart and plans challenged by a tenacious young woman with haunted eyes. Though every word he utters seems to offend her, he is determined to see her safely returned to her father. Even if that means risking his fragile engagement.

When disaster befalls them in the remote wilderness of the Southern California mountains, true feelings are revealed, and both must face heart-rending decisions. But how to decide when every choice before them leads to someone getting hurt?

Click here for your copy!

About the Author

Kathleen Denly lives in sunny Southern California with her loving husband, four young children, and two cats. As a member of the adoption and foster community, children in need are a cause dear to her heart and she finds they make frequent appearances in her stories. When she isn’t writing, researching, or caring for children, Kathleen spends her time reading, visiting historical sites, hiking, and crafting.

More from Kathleen

As Valentine’s Day nears, stories of how couples met seem to be everywhere. Many of those stories share a common element: “The second I saw him/her, I just knew I would marry him/her.”

Every time I read or hear these stories, I chuckle. Not because I don’t believe them but because it reminds me of my own meet-cute.

“Not my type.”

These were the first words to enter my mind when I met the man who would later become my husband. In hindsight, they are hilarious because I know that God worked things out for our good. After more than eighteen years of marriage, I can honestly say that I am more in love with my husband than ever.

However, just a few months prior to meeting my husband, I’d suffered a terrible breakup with another man whom I thought had been considering proposing to me. I had no idea the breakup was coming and that left me devastated and confused. The truths we learn in hindsight don’t help much when we’re in the midst of such circumstances. When we think we know the future before us and something happens to upend those plans it can feel as though our world has turned upside down.

This is what happens to Eliza Brooks in the first chapter of my novel, Waltz in the Wilderness. Though not romantic in nature, a major shift occurs in her world that leaves her feeling betrayed and disoriented. She’s still struggling to right her world when Daniel Clarke enters her life in the worst way possible. Misunderstanding leads to a humiliating confrontation that sets these two at odds with one another before they have a chance to truly get to know each other. Fortunately for Eliza and Daniel, God works their foolishness for good just as He did in my own true love story.

This Valentine’s Day, whatever your romantic relationship status, remember that you are not alone. You are loved. And the God of all the universe loves you and has a plan for you—plans to prosper you and bring you hope.

“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” ~ Proverbs 3:5-6

Blog Stops

A Baker’s Perspective, February 5

Adventures of a Travelers Wife, February 5

Pause for Tales, February 5

Texas Book-aholic, February 6

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 6

Older & Smarter?, February 7

deb’s Book Review, February 7

Reflections From My Bookshelves, February 8

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 8

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 9

The Christian Fiction Girl, February 9

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, February 9

Betti Mace, February 10

Through the Fire Blogs, February 10

Inklings and notions, February 11

Robin’s Nest, February 11

Remembrancy, February 12

For Him and My Family, February 12

My Devotional Thoughts, February 12

Maureen’s Musings, February 13

For the Love of Literature, February 13

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 14

Jeanette’s Thoughts, February 14

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, February 15

Blossoms and Blessings, February 15

Bigreadersite, February 15

Emily Yager, February 16

Blogging With Carol, February 16

Mia Reads, February 16

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impression, February 17

Janicesbookreviews, February 17

SPLASHES of Joy, February 18

Hallie Reads, February 18

Connie’s History Classroom, February 18

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Kathleen is giving away the grand prize package of a NEW Kindle Fire HD8, Proverbs 3:5 Paperback Lined Journal, Romans 8:28 Leather Bookmark, Proverbs 3:5 mug, and an Antique Silverplated Spoon made by 1847 Rogers Bros!!

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/f5b6/waltz-in-the-wilderness-celebration-tour-giveaway

What is love?

Posted on February 13, 2020February 13, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Valentine’s Day is fast approaching. Our hearts and minds are turning to love. How do you celebrate? Is it a time for just you and your sweetheart? Perhaps you include your children in the holiday and make it truly about love.

In our family it is a day centered around love for everyone. We send cards to family and buy presents for our grandkids besides spending time for ourselves. It is not just a romantic holiday for me and my hubby. Our pets even get a new toy.

When our kiddos were still at home we included them. I remember making a red heart shaped cake or a red velvet cake to have for dessert. They would get cards and a gift or money. Sure the hubby and I carved out time for each other to remember our love, too.

Love should be lived, spoken, and shared everyday. Do you agree? I am talking about true, unblemished love. Everyone flourishes when loved, even plants. Where do we begin to find out just what love is if we want to do this right? The Bible in First Corinthians gives us the best answer.

In I Corinthians 13 we are provided a guideline about love. This scripture explains all about what it is and isn’t. As we read what love is, think about the people you love. Is your love in line with the definition? Are you patient with them and not easily angered?

“Love is patient.

Love is kind.

It does not envy.

It does not boast.

It is not proud.

It is not rude.

It is not self-seeking.

It is not easily angered.

It keeps no record of wrongs.

Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.

It always protects,

Always hopes,

Always perseveres.

Love never fails.”

How did you do on your check list. Me, I could stand some improving. For one thing, patience is something that I am constantly honing. Certainly I have failed in many of the other areas, but after writing this blog it has given me a wake up call. I need to love others better, and I will.

Jesus commands us (not suggests) to love one another as He has loved us in John 13:34. “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” Wow. That is a high standard. No, let me change it to the highest standard. The gold standard. Even though we are mere humans we can still strive for it.

God has always loved us and always will. He has plans for each one of us and sent Jesus to redeem us. Scripture says He loves with an everlasting love. That is unending, pure, powerful love. That verse is so sweet to my spirit that I drink my coffee out of this cup.

Please join me in pondering this scripture and how we truly love others, even family. As I ask these questions of myself, you could search for your own answers. Am I patient, kind, hopeful, protective, and does my love persevere? I’m not proud, envious, boastful, easily angered, rude or self-seeking, am I? Do I keep track of when people do me wrong? Has my love ever failed someone? How can I improve and love others as Jesus did.

Enjoy this season of love and remember how loved you are.

God Hears Her Celebrate Lit Tour, Recipes, and Giveaway

Posted on February 11, 2020February 10, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

God Hears Her: 365 Devotions for Women by Women is a heartfelt devotion from Our Daily Bread. Each daily selection is short and does not take a long time to complete. It is a lovely devotional for any woman,

The day’s reading has a title, short scripture to read, a key verse is listed, and then a well written devotional ties it together. If you have ever read Our Daily Bread this will look familiar. The story applies the scripture to our lives and is encouraging.

The dates are listed so it is simple to pick up this book and begin reading it at any day of the year. There is a wide variety of daily themes for inspiration. Encouragement in hard times, admonition against sin, realizing that God hears our prayers, conquering fear, guarding our hearts, are just a few of the many topics covered.

I love this beautifully covered, thought provoking book. Its devotions can be easily read within five minutes. This provides the perfect way to begin or end your day. I highly recommend it. It would make a thoughtful gift for any occasion, holiday, or as a “just because” gift. 5 star rating from me! A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my own, honest words.

About the Book

Book: God Hears Her

Author: Our Daily Bread

Genre: Non-fiction / Christian / Devotional

Release Date: September, 2017

Tour Dates: February 1 – 14

When you’re having one of those days, you just want to know that someone is on your side. You have more than just someone . . . you have your Heavenly Father! He is with you. He is for you. He hears your heart’s cry. And He will reassure you of this through the beautifully designed, hardcover devotional collection, God Hears Her. The personal stories, Scripture passages, and inspirational quotes pulled from Our Daily Bread devotionals will lift you up and remind you that God is bigger than the trials you face.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Our Daily Bread Publishing – Our Daily Bread Publishing is a division of Our Daily Bread Ministries. Founded in 1938, the ministry has grown from a small group of dedicated radio listeners to millions of people around the world who use our Bible-based resources, including the beloved Our Daily Bread devotional. Our Daily Bread Ministries is a non-denominational, non-profit organization with staff and volunteers in over 37 offices working together to distribute more than 60 million resources in 150 countries. Regardless of whether it’s a radio or television broadcast, DVD, podcast, book, mobile app, or website, we provide materials to help people grow in their relationship with God.

More from Our Daily Bread

‘Feels Like Home’ Winter Recipes

As the weather turns colder, it becomes the time to pull out those tried and true winter-time recipes. You know, the ones that make us (or even keep us) warm on the inside. This is the time for the food that just feels like home.

Kirsten Holmberg and Elisa Morgan from the God Hears Her blog have shared some of their families personal recipes. These are the ones that are good for everyone. Feel free to try them yourself, bookmark them for later, or share them with a friend.

Kirsten Holmberg

In the winter, I’m partial to any slow-cooker soup or stew because I love coming home to it in the evening. My favorite is a Vegetarian Chili with some Italian influences:

2 bell peppers, diced

2 stalks of celery, sliced

2 lb zucchini halved and sliced

1 lb fresh mushrooms, halved

1 large onion, diced

3 cans diced tomatoes (fire roasted or herbed for the most flavor)

1 can tomato sauce

1 small can black olives, sliced (or fresh in any amount desired)

1 can cannellini beans

2.5 teaspoon Italian seasoning

2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon fresh garlic, minced

½ cup water

Toss it all in a slow cooker for a few hours on high, or all day on low. Or, put it on the stove instead and simmer until the veggies are cooked through and the flavors blended (about 45 minutes). Parmesan cheese on top for an extra zing.

Elisa Morgan

A Cranberry Nut Bread recipe handed down by my mom, Paige Lee

2 cup flour

½ tsp salt

1 ¼ tsp baking powder

½ scant tsp baking soda

1 cup sugar

Sift above ingredients together twice. To the juice and grated rind of 1 large orange, add 2 tbs of melted shortening and enough boiling water to make ¾ cup. Mix with dry ingredients and add…

1 beaten egg

1 cup chopped pecans

1 cup halved fresh cranberries

Bake in greased loaf pan for 75 minutes at 350 degrees.

If you double the recipe, bake a little less time and use 3 loaf pans. It also makes good muffins and can be frozen.

Blog Stops

The Avid Reader, February 1

deb’s Book Review, February 1

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, February 2

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 2

Texas Book-aholic, February 3

Mary Hake, February 3

God is Love, February 4

Emily Yager, February 4

Genesis 5020, February 5

A Diva’s Heart, February 5

Girls in White Dresses, February 5

Lighthouse Academy, February 6

amandainpa, February 6

For Him and My Family, February 7

For The Love of Books, February 7

Inklings and notions, February 8

Andrea Christenson, February 8

Blossoms and Blessings, February 9

CarpeDiem, February 9

Older & Smarter?, February 10

She Lives to Read, February 10

For the Love of Literature, February 11

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, February 11

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 12

Godly Book Reviews, February 12

Artistic Nobody, February 13

Back Porch Reads, February 13

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, February 14

Kat’s Corner Books, February 14

Giveaway

To celebrate their tour, Our Daily Bread is giving away the grand prize package of a God Hears Her hardcover, God Hears Her leather-like, God Hears Her journal, God Hears Her CD, God Hears Her pen, and God Hears Her Scripture & Encouragement cards!!

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/f540/god-hears-her-celebration-tour-giveaway

Good Grief Celebrate Lit Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted on February 10, 2020February 9, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

Good Grief, A True Story of Love, Loss, and New Life by author Sue Borrows LaRue is a true story book on death and grief. It is the author’s journey through the battle of caring for an ill husband and ultimately losing him. It will be a comfort to many grieving the loss of a spouse or loved one.

Author LaRue has a pleasant writing that is calming. She is very open about her experiences and how her faith kept her going. Scripture is given throughout the book to assist others going through this same thing. It helped her and she wants to help others.

I would recommend this for anyone that is grieving the loss of a loved one. The authenticity, scripture, message of hope, and love of Jesus from this book radiate like a warm hug. It receives a 5 out of 5 stars from me. Celebrate Lit provided a copy but these are my honest words.

About the Book

Book: Good Grief

Author: Sue Borrows LaRue

Genre: Religion/Christian Life/ Death, Grief, Bereavement

Release Date: August 13, 2019

This is a true story of love, loss and new life. Suzie Borrows battled for her husband’s life praying for a miracle. God answered her, but not in the way she imagined. He had a plan that exceeded her dreams, and through undeniable revelations His purpose became her purpose.

Click here to get your copy.

About the Author

Suzie moved from N. Ireland to America as a child, accepted Jesus at 11, married the preacher’s son at 18, had two children, and a loving marriage for 32 years. Nothing she had experienced prepared her for the devastation she would face. She depended completely on God for comfort and direction. Which led her to begin a widows group, Boston radio show, www.sueborrows.com and www.YouTube.com/WidowsWednesday Suzie now lives in Westport, MA with her husband Bruce.

More from Sue

What do you do when writing a book was never on your radar? Answer, you write it in tune with the Holy Spirit in three weeks! An amazing hand-written letter from God, original poetry, and prophetic words from the Lord delivered to my doorstep and so much more! You are never alone when you are hurting or grieving and if you allow Him, God will be undeniably present and you will know His heart for you.

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, February 4

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 5

Vicky Sluiter, February 6 (Author Interview)

Inklings and notions, February 7

For Him and My Family, February 8

deb’s Book Review, February 9

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, February 10

Tell Tale Book Reviews, February 11 (Author Interview)

Lots of Helpers, February 12

CarpeDiem, February 13

A Reader’s Brain, February 14

For the Love of Literature, February 15 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 16

Artistic Nobody, February 17 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour. Sue is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon Gift card and a paperback copy of the book Good Grief “A True Story of Love, Loss, and New Life”!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/f610/good-grief-celebration-tour-giveaway

Isaiah’s Legacy by Mesu Andrews

Posted on February 5, 2020February 4, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

Isaiah’s Legacy by master wordsmith Mesu Andrews is Biblical Fiction at its finest. This is book #3 in The Prophets and Kings Series. It is an impressive 400 page paperback book with an enchanting cover.

Author Andrews has a captivating style of writing. Her prose takes readers on a journey to ancient times and lands. People from the Bible are brought to life on the pages of her book. This is a well researched, well planned, and very well written novel. I was immediately invested in the story.

Keeping true to scripture Author Andrews brings the life of King Manasseh front and center in her book. He was a troubled, cruel man. His father was King Hezekiah, who died when his son was only twelve years old. Manasseh has learning difficulties and needs to learn so much to rule. Shebna is his tutor and has a brother with a similar disability who’s daughter, Shulle, has assisted him. Shebna offers rooms to his brother and niece in exchange for her help tutoring Manasseh. Shebna uses her wiles to sway him away from Yahweh. When Manasseh becomes king, he marries Shulle.

This is a powerful retelling of a Biblical story. King Hezekiah restored Judah to a nation that followed God. His son, King Manasseh, becomes Judah’s most wicked king and changes everything his father worked so faithfully to restore. King Hezekiah’s wife, Hephzibah, Isaiah’s daughter, struggles with her young son and losing her husband. Then her heart breaks even more as she watches Manasseh take reign over their country and make horrible changes that result in the death of her father and friends. I found those parts hard to read, specifically about sorcery, child sacrifice and the killing of God’s people.

I highly recommend this spectacular novel. It helps bring the Old Testament alive. This would make a great group study book. There is so much to discuss. I loved it and have found it has stayed with me. It definitely receives a 5 out of 5 stars rating from me.

A copy was provided by Waterbrook & Multnomah Launch Team. This is my own, honest opinion.

About the Book

Isaiah’s Legacy

Author Mesu Andrews

Prophets and Kings Series

Biblical Fiction, category

400 pages

ISBN: 9780735291881

The drama of the Old Testament comes to life as Judah’s most notorious king ascends to the throne in this gripping novel from the award-winning author of Isaiah’s Daughter .

At eight years old, Shulle has known only life in a small village with her loving but peculiar father. When Uncle Shebna offers shelter in Jerusalem in exchange for Shulle’s help tutoring King Manasseh, Judah’s five-year-old co-regent who displays the same peculiarities as her father, she’s eager to experience the royal court. But Shulle soon realizes the limits of her father’s strict adherence to Yahweh’s Law when Uncle Shebna teaches her of the starry hosts and their power.

Convinced Judah must be freed from Yahweh’s chains, she begins the subtle swaying of young Manasseh, using her charm and skills on the boy no one else understands. When King Hezekiah dies, twelve-year-old Manasseh is thrust onto Judah’s throne, bitter at Yahweh and eager to marry the girl he adores. Assyria’s crown prince favors Manasseh and twists his brilliant mind toward cruelty, beginning Shulle’s long and harrowing journey to discover the Yahweh she’d never known, guided with loving wisdom by Manasseh’s mother: Isaiah’s daughter, the heartbroken Hephzibah. Amid Judah’s dark days, a desperate remnant emerges, claiming the Lord’s promise, “Though we’re helpless now, we’re never hopeless–because we serve El Shaddai.” Shulle is among them, a girl who becomes a queen through Isaiah’s legacy.

About the Author

Mesu Andrews

Mesu grew up with a variegated Christian heritage. With grandparents from the Pilgrim Holiness, Nazarene, and Wesleyan Churches, her dad was a Quaker and mom charismatic. As you might imagine, God was a central figure in most family discussions, but theology was a battlefield and Scripture the weapon. As a rebellious teenager, Mesu rejected God and His Word, but discovered Jesus as a life-transforming Savior through the changed life of an old friend.

The desire for God’s Word exploded with her new commitment, but devotional time was scarce due to the demands of a young wife and mother. So Mesu scoured the only two theology books available–children’s Bible stories and her Bible. The stories she read to her daughters at night pointed her to the Bible passages she studied all day. She became an avid student of God’s Word, searching historical and cultural settings as well as ancient texts and original languages.

Mesu and her husband Roy have raised those two daughters and now enjoy a tribe of grandkids, who get to hear those same Bible stories. Mesu’s love for God’s Word has never waned. She now writes biblical novels, rich with spiritual insight learned through fascinating discoveries in deep historical research.

Her first novel, Love Amid the Ashes (Revell)–the story of Job and the women who loved him–won the 2012 ECPA Book of the Year in the Debut Author Category. Her subsequent novels have released with high praise, shedding light on some of the shadowy women of Scripture. Love’s Sacred Song (Revell, 2012) tells the story of the beloved shepherdess in King Solomon’s Song of Solomon. Love in a Broken Vessel (Revell, 2013) tells the story of Hosea and Gomer and is the final stand-alone novel in the Treasures of His Love Series. Her fourth novel, In the Shadow of Jezebel (Revell, 2014) tells the fascinating story of Queen Athaliah and the courageous Princess Jehosheba.

The Treasures of the Nile series (Waterbrook/Multnomah, 2015-16) included The Pharaoh’s Daughter and Miriam and spanned Moses’ life from birth to the Exodus. Her 2017 release, Isaiah’s Daughter (Waterbrook/Multnomah), explores the life and ministry of the prophet Isaiah and the tumultuous days of Judah under the reigns of Ahaz and Hezekiah but focuses on the woman Hephzibah–a fascinating character in Jewish legends.

Mesu writes in their log cabin tucked away in the beautiful Appalachian Mountains. Her best friend is an American Staffordshire Terrier named Zeke, who keeps her company on long writing days. Zeke also enjoys watching movies, long walks in the woods, and sitting by the fireplace on rainy days.

To learn more about the author and other books she has written go to: http://mesuandrews.com/

Psalm Hymns Vol. 5 Celebrate Lit Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted on February 4, 2020February 3, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

Psalm Hymns, Volume 5, Psalms 107-150 by author L.L. Larkins is the fifth in her series. This is a delightfully different look at scripture, the Psalms, and worship. It brings a novel level to learning bible verses.

No matter how many times I have read the Bible, it seems I always glean something new. Author Larkins has put music from favorite hymns to Psalms. The combination is beautiful.

I am not a singer, wish as I much as I may. Since it was just me and Abba, I was comfortable singing the Psalms to Him. The depth it added to my worship brought tears to my eyes. Everyone should try it.

This book should help with scripture memorization. It is easier for me to remember hymns sometimes than scripture. Singing is the difference.

This would be a fun book to do in a group. Psalms are so powerful and most people have a favorite or two. Using this book helps delve deeper into them and worship.

I highly recommend this book. It gets a 4 out of 5 stars from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my own, honest words.

About the Book

Book: Psalm Hymns, Volume Five, Psalms 107-150

Author: L.L. Larkins

Genre: Non-Fiction

Release Date: July 10, 2019

You’ve landed on the final book of Biblical Psalms in the Psalm Hymns series, Volume Five, Psalms 107-150 contains singable, recitable psalms in full form, adapted from the Biblical Psalms.

In this last volume of the Psalm Hymns series, you are offered a method for singing book V of the Biblical Psalms. Maybe your favorite psalm is included.

There are some sticky psalms, like Psalm 119- King David’s love poem to God’s law. You can ask yourself while singing it, why the law is important to a King. Psalm 137 is full of bile and bitterness, written by the remnant captives after the desolation of Jerusalem. But there are also the most lyrical and beautiful of praises for the eternal rule of God found in the Psalms of Ascent and in Psalm 107 and Psalm 136.

Psalm 139 is the lyrical ode and articulate description of God knitting our bodies together in secret, and how He watches over and cares for us no matter where we go.

The Celebration Psalms finish out the entire book of Psalms and Psalm Hymns series as a grand finale.

Click here for your copy!

About the Author

L. L. Larkins graduated with a double major in Bible and Music from Colorado Christian University. Larkins is not a public speaker and in fact, enjoys being slightly incognito. This keeps the focus on the experience of singing the Psalms in each one’s own fashion or group. It also keeps any hero-worship or dart-throwing contests about the author at bay.

The Psalms provide a different experience of praise and worship than what is currently experienced in western Christian music. Both are valuable.

Larkins wrote each of the Psalm Hymns books (a series) in the given biblical context of chapter and verse. They are meant for teaching and experiential learning in Bible studies, as introductions to pastoral messages in the Psalms, for devotions during tours of the Holy Land, and for religious education for homeschoolers. But, they are also meant for anyone who loves the Psalms and enjoys a good puzzle. Some Psalms are so long that singing them can feel like chanting unless there is a creative musician in the group who knows about key changes, soloists, style changes, and other musical effects.

Larkins has wrestled with the puzzles of the psalms and has been thrilled with the spiritual enlightenment that adapting the Psalms to music has provided.

More from L. L. Larkins

Hi, and welcome to everyone wanting to go deep and wide, welcome to this singing book tour of the Psalms!

It’s my feeling that no other kind of Bible study can be quite as fun as a singing Bible study! You look at each other and can get a little anxious, but then someone starts singing the tune with the words of the Psalm and then everyone joins in or takes a turn. Nervous people start singing harmonies, then they get stronger. People start laughing at themselves or at the wonder of the words they’ve never really heard before. Afterward, people start commenting and asking questions. It’s just a blast!

The Psalms were written as prayers and soulful examinations about life, and as secret cover letters in times of war, and as testimonies about God’s miracles. But the Psalms were always meant to be sung rather than recited. Did you know? Singing excites the imagination and connects a variety of brain synapsis so that they create spiritual buzzes, new understanding, and alarms ring with new opportunities for faith and belief.

Our church uses the Psalm Hymns books as hymnals. We sing a psalm before each message.

If you are going on a tour of the Holy Land or are an educator or lay leader or pastor, I hope that you contact my publisher, Capture Books, about getting some copies of the Psalm Hymns in bulk for groups. I think there is special group pricing available.

Thanks so much for this opportunity to show off Biblical Literature adapted for today’s Church experience.

Blog Stops

Through the Lens of Scripture, January 29

My Devotional Thoughts, January 30

Just the Write Escape, January 31

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 1

Texas Book-aholic, February 2

For the Love of Literature, February 3

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, February 4

janicesbookreviews, February 5

Inklings and notions, February 6

Artistic Nobody, February 7 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, February 7

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 8

For Him and My Family, February 9

Mamma Loves Books, February 10

Simple Harvest Reads, February 11

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, L.L. is giving away the grand prize package of signed copies of the Psalm Hymns books (1-5)!!

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/f53e/psalm-hymns-v-celebration-tour-giveaway

Hannah’s Courage Celebrate Lit Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted on February 3, 2020February 3, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts:

I am fascinated by the Amish culture and lifestyle. They have a love for family and trust in God that is strong. Hard work is part of their lives as is good cooking.

Hannah’s Courage is a Christian historical Amish romance by author Molly Jebber. It takes readers into the Amish world in the early 1900’s. Set in Charm, Ohio this is part of The Amish Charm Bakery Series. It am be read as a stand-alone, but it would be better to read the earlier novels first.

This is the tale of Hannah. She works at the bakery and tutors Aaron. Timothy is Aaron’s older brother and has been in love with Hannah for along time. Hannah has finally decided to declare her feelings to Timothy when a new girl comes to Charm and sweeps him off of his feet.

The author has incorporated many timeless life and inspirational lessons into this delightful story. She has a lovely writing style that is easy to read. A twist is thrown in to make the story interesting. Her characters are realistic and well rounded. The dialog flows without a hitch. The setting was well researched and defined so that I could imagine everything. I wanted to visit the bakery and chat with the three girls.

In the back after the story, readers are rewarded with recipes. I was thrilled to be able to make some of the treats I had been reading about that sounded so scrumptious. There is even a list of Amish words and their meanings, too.

I definitely recommend this book. It would make a great reading group choice. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit but these are my own true words. I rated it a 4 out of 5 stars.

About the Book

Book: Hannah’s Courage

Author: Molly Jebber

Genre: Amish Historical Romance

Release Date: January 28, 2020

A loaf of fragrant cinnamon bread for breakfast . . . a sweet and creamy custard pie for dessert. In 1912 Ohio, the Amish Charm Bakery has something to delight locals and visiting Englischer alike. And within this warm, welcoming community, there’s always room for love to grow . . .

Hannah Lapp’s life, like a long-cherished recipe, is satisfying just the way it is. She enjoys whipping up desserts at the bakery, tutoring local children, and socializing with dear friends. One of those friends, Timothy Barkman, has made his interest in Hannah clear, but she’s been in no hurry to change her circumstances.

No sooner does she feel ready to grow closer to hard-working, handsome Timothy than Hannah finds she may have waited too long. Charlene Shetler intends to become Timothy’s fraa. It’s little wonder he’s attracted to such a pretty, forthright young woman, but is the newcomer all that she seems? Only when Hannah is willing to confront some difficult truths can she move bravely toward a life of abiding faith and love . . .

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Molly Jebber’s Amish Historical Romance books have been featured on Publisher’s Weekly’s Best Ten Recommended Reads, in USA Today’s HEA, Romantic Times and many other media sites. She’s tours and speaks for Stonecroft Ministries – Women’s Christian Connection, and about Amish history/traditions, writing, marketing, publishing, and her books. She loves God, her family, and friends. She enjoys swimming, golf, reading, and says yes to butterscotch pie and parasailing, but no to coconut and skydiving! Visit http://www.mollyjebber.com for a complete list of her books and speaking events.

More from Molly

I related to Hannah in this book where I had to find the courage to make some hard decisions. Maybe you’ve had some hard choices to make and finding the courage to follow through has been difficult for you.

Have you had a bad day where nothing goes right? We’ve all had those. Hannah’s has many days like this, and she is torn about what to do from one problem to the next in her life. She makes some snap decisions, and faces life-altering challenges. You’ll laugh and want to stomp your feet at the twists and turns in this story. She’s good at giving her friends advice, but has trouble following it. I can relate to this in my life at times. Maybe you can too.

The Sheriff and Dr. Harrison are still regular customers at the bakery where she whips up mouth-watering desserts. She and her friends cry, laugh, and offer each other advice. I love time with girlfriends, and Hannah’s no different. You’ll relate to her, root for her, want to reach in the book and shake her at times (I’m sure my friends have wanted to do this with me a time or two!), and wonder how what the future holds for her.

I hope you’ll follow my blog tour and enter for a chance to win the Grand Prize at the end of the tour. The more you enter, the more chances you have of winning!

Thank you so much for your support and encouragement. Your Facebook comments help me to get to know you better, and I appreciate it so much!

Here’s a recipe Hannah’s whipped up for you. And there are more in the back of Hannah’s story.

Cake

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
¾ teaspoon baking soda
1 ¾ teaspoons cinnamon
½ teaspoon nutmeg
½ teaspoonsalt
1 ¼ cups vegetable oil
1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
½ cupbrown sugar
3eggs
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla
3large apples, peeled and cut into large pieced

Glaze

3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons brown sugar
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
3 tablespoons heavy cream
¼ teaspoonvanilla

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease 9 x 13 pan with butter and coat with 2 tablespoons of flour
In a large bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt. Sift two additional times and set aside.
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine oil and both sugars, and mix until well blended.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Add vanilla and mix again.
Add the sifted dry ingredients to the batter and mix thoroughly. By hand, fold in apples and walnuts and mix until evenly combined.
Spoon the batter into the prepared bundt pan. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Remove cake from the oven and allow to cool in the bundt pan for 20 minutes.
While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze. In a saucepan, over medium heat, combine all of the glaze ingredients. Bring to a boil and allow the mixture to boil for 1 minute.
Remove the cake from the pan, onto a serving plate. Spoon the glaze over the warm cake.
Cool for a little longer before serving.

Blog Stops

The Avid Reader, January 30

Genesis 5020, January 30

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 31

Texas Book-aholic, January 31

Batya’s Bits, February 1

Quiet Quilter, February 1

She Lives to Read, February 2

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 2

Bigreadersite , February 3

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, February 3

For Him and My Family, February 4

deb’s Book Review, February 4

Inklings and notions, February 5

Jeanette’s Thoughts, February 5

Pause for Tales, February 5

Older & Smarter?, February 6

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, February 6

Blossoms and Blessings, February 7

Lighthouse Academy Blog, February 7 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, February 8

Christian Bookaholic, February 8

For the Love of Literature, February 9

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 9

SusanLovesBooks, February 10

Adventures of a Travelers Wife, February 10

Connie’s History Classroom, February 11

SPLASHES of Joy , February 11

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 12

Vicky Sluiter, February 12

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Molly is giving away a Molly Jebber grand prize collection that includes a handmade quilt and Amazon 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/f564/hannah-s-courage-celebration-tour-giveaway

Promised Land Celebrate Lit Tour

Posted on February 1, 2020January 31, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

Promised Land by best selling author Robert Whitlow is a Christian legal suspense fiction that is the second book in his Chosen People Series. I have not read book one (yet!) and had no trouble following this riveting novel. It is breathtaking!

Set in both the Middle East and the United States, the author has penned a well researched, organized, and extremely well written story. It is inspirational, faith filled, and full of timely life lessons.

The characters are realistic and engaging. I was immediately invested in their stories. Newlyweds Hana and Daub are a lovely couple. The supporting characters are wonderfully believable, also. Dialog flows easily and sounds realistic.

This book is a page turning delight. There is mystery, adventure, intrigue, and stolen artifacts. It had my interest piqued and I thought about this realistic book long after I finished it. One of the things I loved was not having to search for God in the story. He was up front!

I highly recommend it. Plan on spending a lot of time with this book because because it is hard to put down. I rated it 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my own, honest words.

About the Book

Book: Promise Land

Author: Robert Whitlow

Genre: Christian Fiction, Suspense, Legal Drama

Release Date: January 14, 2020

With historical mysteries, religious intrigue, and political danger, Promised Land asks one momentous question: what if your calling puts you—and your family—in the crosshairs?

Despite their Israeli citizenship, Hana and Daud cannot safely return to their homeland because a dangerous terrorist ring is threatening Daud. Hana is perfectly fine remaining in the United States, working for a law firm in Atlanta, especially when she learns she’s pregnant. But Daud can’t shake the draw to return home to Israel, even if it makes him a walking target.

Hana is helping her boss plan a huge Middle East summit in Atlanta when Jakob Brodsky, her old friend and former co-litigator, asks for her help with a current case. His client is attempting to recover ancient artifacts stolen from his Jewish great-grandfather by a Soviet colonel at the end of World War II. Because the case crosses several national borders, he knows he needs Hana’s knowledge and skill to get to the bottom of what happened to these precious artifacts.

Meanwhile, Daud is called in to help a US intelligence agency extract a Ukrainian doctor from a dangerous situation in Egypt. While overseas, he can’t resist the call of Jerusalem and thus sets off a series of events that puts thousands of people in danger, including his wife and unborn child.

Bestselling author Robert Whitlow explores the meaning of family and home—and how faith forms the identity of both—in this breathtaking follow-up to Chosen People.

Click here to get your copy.

About the Author

Robert Whitlow is the bestselling author of legal novels set in the South and winner of the Christy Award for Contemporary Fiction. He received his JD with honors from the University of Georgia School of Law where he served on the staff of the Georgia Law Review. Website: www.robertwhitlow.com; Twitter: @whitlowwriter; Facebook: robertwhitlowbooks

Read an Excerpt

Click here to read an excerpt of the book.

Blog Stops

Genesis 5020, January 27

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 27

Inklings and notions, January 28

deb’s Book Review, January 28

Texas Book-aholic, January 29

For Him and My Family, January 30

CarpeDiem, January 30

Christian bookaholic, January 31

Mary Hake, January 31

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, February 1

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 2

Blogging With Carol, February 2

Daysong Reflections, February 3

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, February 3

For the Love of Literature, February 4

Betti Mace, February 5

Hallie Reads, February 5

By The Book, February 6

SPLASHES of Joy, February 7

Bigreadersite, February 7

Pause for Tales, February 8

Emily Yager, February 8

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 9

Lone Star Ranger Celebrate Lit Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted on January 29, 2020January 28, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

Lone Star Ranger by author Renae Brumbaugh Green is a Christian Historical Romance. This beautifully written book has so much to offer. I found inspirational lessons, mystery, adventure, romance, and at times humor.

New to me author Renae Green has an easy to read style. I was immediately invested in the story and lives of the characters. Dialog was plentiful and sounded authentic. It flowed without a hitch. The descriptive text took me away to 1877 Texas and kept me there until the story ended.

Elizabeth Covington is a strong woman and dedicated sister. She trusted God but had trouble turning things completely over to Him. Rett Smith is a Texas Ranger and is convinced her brother, Evan, is a multi-murderer. Rett arrests Evan and Elizabeth rushes to prove her brother’s innocence. Sparks fly between Rett and Elizabeth which turn this novel into a page-turner.

The story has surprise after surprise. Life lessons as well as lessons of faith and trust in God are expertly woven throughout this well written tale. I definitely recommend this. It gets a 5 out of 5 star rating. Celebrate Lit provided a copy but these are my own, honest words.

About the Book

Book: Lone Star Ranger

Author: Renae Brumbaugh Green

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Release Date: January 21, 2020

Elizabeth Covington will get her man.

And she has just a week to prove her brother isn’t the murderer Texas Ranger Rett Smith accuses him of being. She’ll show the good-looking lawman he’s wrong, even if it means setting out on a risky race across Texas to catch the real killer.

Rett doesn’t want to convict an innocent man. But he can’t let the Boston beauty sway his senses to set a guilty man free. When Elizabeth follows him on a dangerous trek, the Ranger vows to keep her safe. But who will protect him from the woman whose conviction and courage leave him doubting everything—even his heart?

Click here to get your copy.

About the Author

Renae Brumbaugh Green is a city-girl-turned-country-diva. She’s married to a handsome country boy named Rick, and she’s mom to four nearly-perfect, nearly-grown children, two rowdy dogs, and some ducks. They live in rural Texas where Renae wears overalls, western boots, and bubblegum pink nail polish. She’s a bestselling author of over 30 books, an award-winning humor columnist, and an online English teacher. In her free time, she can be found leaping tall buildings and rescuing kittens from trees. Or, she’d like to do those things, if she had free time.

More from Renae

I’ve been a fan of historical romance from the moment I graduated from The Babysitter’s Club. A friend of mind introduced me to the Love Comes Softly series by Janette Oke, and I was hooked. In college, between exams and extracurricular stuff, I read those books like they were M&Ms. That’s why, when I started writing grown-up fiction, I knew historical was my genre.

But there’s another reason—perhaps a more compelling reason—why I had to write The Texas Rangers series. See, my granddaddy was a Texas Ranger. Not the baseball player kind. The gun-toting, cowboy-hat-and-badge-wearing kind. As far as I know, he was not a master of any kinds of martial arts, so if you’re a fan of Walker, Texas Ranger, I’m sorry to disappoint.

And he was not alive during the late 1800s, as are the characters are in this series. Grandaddy died in 1980 when I was 12 years old. He was a good man, known for rescuing puppies and bringing small gifts and toys to children in stressful situations—i.e. when their parents were arrested. My favorite memory of him is sitting on his lap, falling asleep to the sound of his big, round pocket watch ticking. I have a picture of myself, age three, sitting on his knee while he typed up his reports. I love that typewriter picture, and find it significant since I’m now a writer.

Grandaddy was Robert Everett Smith, and Grandmother (yes, I called her that—she was very formal, but also very sweet) was Ellie Marie (Edgar) Smith. The two lead characters in Lone Star Ranger are named Rett (Everett) and Elizabeth, in their honor.

Like Grandmother, Elizabeth is refined and formal, yet strong headed, with her own lady-like brand of spunk. She hails from Boston, and is a little overwhelmed at the grit and gravel of Texas lawmen. But she’s not intimidated—not even by handsome Texas Ranger Rett Smith.

Thanks so much for sharing in my cherished family memories. I hope you enjoy the story as much as I enjoyed writing it!

—Renae Brumbaugh Green