$50 and More Giveaway in Celebrate Lit’s “Miles from Where We Started” Book Tour

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

About the Book

Miles from Where We Started

Book Title: Miles from Where We Started

Author: Cynthia Ruchti

Genre: Christian Romance/Family life

Release date: October 16, 2018

These no-longer-newlyweds want out of this road trip—and their marriage. Too bad they can’t find the off ramp.

Weeks away from their one-year wedding anniversary, Mallory and Connor Duncan can’t even agree on how to end their marriage. But when a last-minute crisis lands them on a three-thousand-mile road trip together, Mallory wonders if their story may not be over after all.

The trip begins to unravel before the key is even in the ignition, and an at-risk, trouble-seeking missile of an eleven-year-old is unexpectedly launched into their travel plans. Close quarters get even tighter, and the couple believes this whole experience will spell disaster.

Their first year of marriage hasn’t been the arm-in-arm togetherness they expected. How can they find a new beginning when the road ends?

 

Click here to purchase your copy!

My Review:

This was the first book I have read by author Cynthia Ruchti. I found her writing style nice and easy to follow.  She sprinkles humor in the midst of an emotionally charged book and provides relief.  Her story was believable from quirky characters to the adventure taken.

This is the tale of the Duncans.  Married couple Connor and Mallory Duncan are basically newlyweds, but not so happily wed.  In fact, Conner is ready for a divorce.  Mallory is still trying.  The author did an excellent job in her writing.  At times I had to just put the book down for a bit.  My heart broke for them.  Yes, I was invested in the story and characters.

There is a fabulous little guy, 11 year old Judah, that steals the show in this book.  He is a foster kid and has many trust issues.  The Duncans take a trip that will promote the joys of micro-camping for Connor’s job, and Judah is their sidekick.  Like a reality show, social medial follows this trio on their trip, and we get to see their journey as they cross America and grow spiritually.

Life lessons are abundant in this lengthy book.  Faith, hope, love, family, redemption, and trust are just some.  The characters learn to trust God and His plans for their lives.  Readers should take note.  The book is not preachy but gets its inspirational message across.

I recommend this book.  It would be great for a book club or reading group.  There are discussion questions in the back to assist with deeper reflection.  I rated it a 4 out of 5 stars.

Thank you to Gilead Publishing and Celebrate Lit for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own honest ones.

About The Author

cynthia ruchtiCynthia Ruchti tells stories of hope through novels, nonfiction, devotionals, and speaking events. She serves as the professional relations liaison for American Christian Fiction Writers and is a frequent speaker at writers’ conferences across the country. She married her grade school sweetheart, and the two live in the heart of Wisconsin, not far from their three children and five grandchildren.

Guest Post from Cynthia

I have a confession to make. I heart millennials.

My other novels have had a few millennial characters. Some even played starring roles. But I knew there was more to the heart of millennials than I could gain from listening to the often unfair sighing or comedy routines about that generation. As a person, I wanted to know them better—what are they really like? What challenges do they face with which previous generations saddled them? What strengths to they offer our culture?

Until now, I hadn’t written a story about a millennial couple whose marriage was in crisis. Like, serious crisis. I-don’t-want-to-be-married-to-you-anymore. That kind of crisis.

As any good novelist knows, part of what we do to our characters is make the situation worse. So, millennial couple, approaching their one-year anniversary, ready to call it quits because “This marriage thing is really hard. Is it supposed to be so much work?” But what if…? What if they were forced to be together for three weeks…in a micro-camper…on America’s backroads…with an 11-year-old foster boy troublemaker…and both the husband’s AND the wife’s jobs depended on the trip’s success?

Plot idea in hand, I set off to write Miles from Where We Started, not entirely sure when I began the journey where they would end up or how they’d get there. It was an education for me in so many ways. The impact of the turning point of the story? In the words of my millennial friends, “That’s lit!”

Side note: I’m a big fan of a young teen musician at our church. The boy has mad skills as a keyboard artist. He approaches life as if it’s an endless game of Ninja Warrior. Why walk when you can vault into the room? Why walk up a flight of stairs when you can hop four at a time? He also sports a perpetual smile and is famous for his kindness, but his eyes give away that a little mischief may be hiding behind that smile. I asked Judah’s permission to use his name (and a little bit of his personality) as the foster child character in Miles from Where We Started. I can’t wait for him to read the part he inspired.

Can’t wait for you to read it, too.

Hemmed in Hope,

Cynthia

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, October 25

Reading Is My SuperPower, October 25

The Power of Words, October 25

All-of-a-kind Mom, October 26

Lighthouse Academy, October 26

Real World Bible Study, October 26

Quiet Quilter, October 27

Kristin’s Book Reviews, October 27

Christian Bookaholic, October 27

cherylbbookblog, October 28

Simple Harvest Reads, October 28 (Guest Post from Mindy Houng)

Remembrancy, October 28

Godly Book Reviews, October 29

Captive Dreams Window, October 29

By The Book, October 29

Maureen’s Musings, October 30

Spoken from the Heart , October 30

SusanLovesBooks, October 30

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, October 31

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 31

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 31

Mary Hake, November 1

Book by Book, November 1

amandainpa , November 1

Pause for Tales, November 2

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, November 2

Just Commonly, November 2

Southern Gal Loves to Read, November 3

Baker Kella, November 3

Two Points of Interest, November 3

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, November 4

Inklings and Notions, November 4

Bibliophile Reviews, November 4

Texas Book-aholic, November 5

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 5

Janice’s Book Reviews, November 6

Carpe Diem, November 6

A Baker’s Perspective, November 6

A Diva’s Heart, November 7

Reader’s Cozy Corner, November 7

Bigreadersite, November 7

Giveaway

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To celebrate her tour, Cynthia is giving away a grand prize of the Adventure begins” large tote bag, “This way to adventure” travel notebook, “Home is Where We Park It” metal wall hanging, a teardrop camper birdhouse, PLUS a $50 gift Visa gift card…to start your adventure fund!!

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/d4ea/miles-from-where-we-started-celebration-tour-giveaway

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Romancing the Bride by Melissa Jagears Book Review

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Romancing the Bride is another homerun for the extremely talented author Melissa Jagears.  This author writes Christian historical romance fiction, but it gets even better than that.  Have I got your interest yet?  She writes God glorifying books.  Her books while exceedingly entertaining provide food for the soul.  Bravo!  We need more Christian authors that are not afraid to speak or shout the Christian message instead of softly whispering it to help ratings.  Okay, if someone will help me off of this soapbox I will tell you about her latest and greatest work.

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This historical romance is the tale of Annie Gephart, a ranch widow with a teenage daughter and younger son.  The book opens with Annie distraught because her hired cowboys have all left her for green pastures.  Sheriff Jacob Hendrix, the town’s most eligible bachelor, delivers a tax notice and Annie must come up with money or a plan quickly to save her land.  Jacob might possibly be the perfect man.  (Swoon.)

In this book there are so many issues brought to light.  Tough subjects that affect people today as well as back in Annie’s time.  Death of a spouse, children, and parent, parental guidance, parental approval, peer pressure, greed, despair, rebellion, jealousy, stealing, special needs, deceit, betrayal, forgiveness, love, faith, hope, and letting God be in control are some of the things the brilliant wordsmith packs in her story.  Good versus evil, coming of age versus experience, trusting God versus going off on our own, judging others versus helping are some of the not so subtle lessons woven into this captivating story.

Characters are extremely believable.  (Obviously the author has children to understand the dynamics of a sibling relationship.)  Annie and Jacob make a formidable pair.  I would love to have them for friends.  Each are well rounded including some flaws, but aren’t we all?  The children are realistic.  The author took me to a place back in time for a while and I really enjoyed it.  I wanted to know what happened but I was sad when the book ended.  How could I say goodbye to these people with whom I had become so invested.

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If you are a fan of love stories, author Jagears is a professional when it comes to penning them.  The cat and mouse tension between Annie and Jacob became almost unbearable at times for this reader.  The obstacles and setbacks they faced each knocked the wind from my sails and I could feel their emotions.  With each victory I was elated.  I really enjoy the books by Mrs. Jagears.

It took me from page one to get pulled in to this book.  My interest was held throughout.  This is a “pick me up and don’t put me down until I am finished” type of book.  There are some twists and turns as well as some predictable moments.  Author Jagears always provides a bit of humor in just the right spots.  She does her research and always seems to leave readers with a bit of knowledge after finishing her book.

I highly recommend this delightful novel.  This is a perfect reading group book because there is so much to discuss.  Lovers of Christian fiction, romance, historical, and western fiction will love it.   Get yourself a copy and escape for a while.  Since it is Book One in the Frontier Vows Series that gives us more to anticipate. Am I excited about that?  You betcha!  It gets 5 out of 5 stars from me.  A copy was provided by the author but I was under no obligation to write a review.  This is my own honest opinion.

 

 

“This Courageous Journey” Celebrate Lit Book Tour, Review, and Giveaway

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My Review:

“This Courageous Journey” is the  first book I have read by author Misty Beller, but it will not be the last.  While this was Book 3 in her Heart of the Mountains Series, it can easily be as a stand-alone.  This reader loved it so much I am going back to read the other books now.

Author Beller is a talented storyteller.  I quickly became invested in this book and stayed that way until the end.  My emotions were all over the place while reading this book.  I felt like I was on the journey with Noelle and Daniel.  Frightened, happy, cold, excited, scared, tense, exhilarated, intrigued, worn out, awed, and even extreme romantic tension all transferred from the pages of this book into me.

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This is the tale of Noelle Grant who ventures through the Canadian Rockies with family friends to see her brother.  Their guide, Daniel Abrams, is a rough mountain man, but when the two get together sparks fly.  The journey is filled with danger and breathtaking  adventure.  They encounter fierce wild animals, severe weather, treacherous trails, and many trials.  It took courage and faith to complete the trip.

The author did a fabulous job with her story.  It was well researched, planned, and written.  I love learning things from fiction books I read.  This one taught me things I did not know.  The author’s style of writing is nice.  It flows smoothly and is easy to follow.  Characters are well defined.  I enjoyed the faith that Noelle had.  If it is a Christian novel, I expect there to be some mention of faith, God, and prayer.  This one excelled there.  There are lessons in this book.  God is faithful and always with us.  When we do not know what to do, we should ask God for guidance.  God gives us strength to carry on.

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If you are a fan of love stories, do not miss this one.  The tension is so thick between Noelle and Daniel that I could feel it as I read.  When he said “woman, you undo me” I started cheering her.  When they kissed, oh, my!  Oh, my!  Author Beller knows her way around a good romance.

I highly recommend this page turning book.  It is adventurous, romantic, historic, and inspirational.  The book sweeps you up and takes you on a perilous journey across the Canadian mountains during a time you can only imagine.  By the end of it, you feel like you have experienced it.  It gets a 5 out of 5 stars from me.  Celebrate Lit provided a copy of the book but I was under no obligation to write a review.  These are my own, honest opinions.

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About the Book

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Book Title: This Courageous Journey
Author: Misty Beller
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Release date: October 9, 2018

As the fifth daughter in a family of nine children, Noelle Grant has spent her life working to be unique. Her love of stories helps define her goal—to be known around the country as one of the top news correspondents of her time. And what better way to uncover sensational stories than to travel through the mountain wilderness to visit the brother she hasn’t seen in years? The trip comes together perfectly as she plans to journey with family friends who will be settling in the same area. Her first inkling that things may not be as perfect as planned comes in the form of the mountain man they hire as their guide for the final leg of the journey.

When Daniel Abrams agrees to guide the small group of easterners along his usual journey northward to the Canadian mountains, his gut tells him he’s making the wrong decision. But if he doesn’t take them, who will? The man in charge refuses to consider turning back. As they start out, Daniel can’t help but notice the woman traveling under the care of her friends. Though she appears too genteel to last long in these mountains, she soon reveals a strength that draws him more than he should allow.

As the dangers of this wilderness become more than the group bargained for, Noelle is faced with the choice to delay her journey northward or proceed alone with the man she’s come to trust against all reason. She never imagines her decision will place her—and the man she loves—in a situation more hazardous than any story her imagination could conjure.

About the Author

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Misty M. Beller writes romantic mountain stories, set on the 1800s frontier and woven with the truth of God’s love.

She was raised on a farm in South Carolina, so her Southern roots run deep. Growing up, her family was close, and they continue to keep that priority today. Her husband and daughters now add another dimension to her life, keeping her both grounded and crazy.
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God has placed a desire in Misty’s heart to combine her love for Christian fiction and the simpler ranch life, writing historical novels that display God’s abundant love through the twists and turns in the lives of her characters.

Guest Post by Misty Beller

Ever Been Struck by Lightning?

One of the fun things about being a writer is the crazy topics I get to research. Without giving away too much of the story, part of my research for This Courageous Journey included uncovering what happens when lightning strikes a person. It turns out anything can happen!

Surprisingly, about nine out of ten people struck by lightning live to tell their story. Each person’s experience seems to be different—some are knocked unconscious, while others are horribly aware of everything happening. One person who was struck said it seemed as if time slowed to a crawl and a white haze surrounded him like a bubble, as excruciating pain shot through him.

People usually try to determine the path the lightning traveled through them, based on where burn marks appear on both skin and clothing, but sometimes that can be difficult if jewelry or coins were touching the body. Survivors might suffer a variety of short- and long-term effects, including—but not limited to—cardiac arrest, confusion, seizures, dizziness, muscle aches, deafness, headaches, memory deficits, distractibility, personality changes, and chronic pain, among others. That may sound like an awful list, but it does beat the alternative!
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As I considered the possible effects of a lightning strike when I was writing This Courageous Journey, I was reminded once again how magnificent God’s creation is. Both the incredible power contained in one streak of lightning, and the beautiful inner workings of the bodies He created for us. As the Psalmist said, we are “fearfully and wonderfully made!”

Giveaway

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

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

Blog Stops

Reading Is My SuperPower, October 11

Among the Reads, October 11

Singing Librarian Books, October 11

The Power of Words, October 12

Multifarious, October 12

Maureen’s Musings, October 12

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, October 13

Real World Bible Study, October 13

Splashes of Joy, October 14

Artistic Nobody, October 14 (Interview)

Joy of Reading, October 15

Mary Hake, October 15

Janices book reviews, October 15

Kat’s Corner Books, October 16

Livin Lit, October 16

KarenSueHadley, October 17

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 17

Remembrancy, October 18

Carpe Diem, October 18

Pause for Tales, October 19

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, October 19

Bigreadersite, October 19

A Baker’s Perspective, October 20

Blossoms and Blessings, October 20

Bibliophile Reviews, October 20

Christian Author, J.E. Grace, October 21

Jeanette’s Thoughts, October 21

Wishful Endings, October 22

Simple Harvest Reads, October 22 (Guest post Mindy Houng)

Inspiration Clothesline, October 23

proud to be an autism mom, October 23

Texas Book-aholic, October 24

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 24

Book Review: Marked by Love by Tim Steven

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess
Marked by Love: A Dare to Walk Away from Judgment and Hypocrisy by author Tim Steven is a frank, real, honest look at how we see and love others.  It is an in your face, step on your toes, search inside yourself book that challenges readers.  Are others able to identify us by our actions that we are Christians?  Can they see Jesus shining through us?
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It is not always easy but we are told to love everyone.  Scripture says to love and pray for your enemies.  Sinners, too, need your love.  Perhaps you don’t agree with them, but you can still love them.  Love the person and hate the sin.
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How do you think we are doing? Are we Christians living as the Bible commands?  Are we lovings others?  Do we not judge?  These are stinging questions but this book is a wake up call to anyone who has forgotten.  We are to be Jesus to others and live as He taught us everyday, not just the hour or two on Sunday when we are in church.
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The author explains God said twice in scripture “Jesus is marked by my love”.  Jesus did not have a tattoo or certain color he always wore to mark Him.  The only thing that marked Jesus Christ and the only thing that would mark His followers is love.  We as followers are also marked by love.  Do we act like it?  Can we treat everyone with love?  We are commanded to do just that.  Not just people we like but everyone.  Even those we disagree with in choices, politics, lifestyle, and anything.
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I would highly recommend this walk the walk book to anyone.  It is very upfront about people needing to change.  We need to stop this bickering, judging, and hating.  How would our world be if we treated everyone with love and showed them Jesus?  Think of the changes!  This is a great group read.  Believe me, you will want to discuss it with people.  You will want to change for the better.  This reader did.   It gets a 5 out of 5 stars from me.  I received a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.  All opinions are my own honest ones.
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Book Review: The Cumberland Bride by Shannon McNear

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The Cumberland Bride by author Shannon McNear is Book 5 in the Daughters of the Mayflower Series.  This 256 page Christian historical novel was filled with adventure, romance, and of course history. Even though it is Book 5, readers that have not read the first four will be able to follow it without any issues.

Shannon McNear is a new author to me.  I enjoyed her style of writing.  The story caught my attention within a few pages and strongly held it until the end.  Her style is easy to understand, flows smoothly, and I could tell this book had been well researched.  I love a book that teaches me things, and this one did just that.  Another thing I want from a Christian book is inspiration.  This one provided that, also.  The descriptions were detailed without being overlong.  This book swept me back in time to 1794 and I was able to go on a journey in the wilderness.  It took me through some twists and turns, emotions were raw at times, but I loved this captivating book.
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The Cumberland Bride is the tale of Kate Gruener.  Kate her family are venturing from Bean’s Station, Tennessee, through the Cumberland Gap into the wilderness of western Kentucky.  It is also the story of Thomas Bledsoe, the scout for their party. Thomas has experience with Indians.  As one might think, their journey is filled with adventure, danger, thrills, and peril. It is also filled with faith, hope, love, trust, and prayers to God.
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The author has done a wonderful job with her characters.  They are relatable, well rounded, and feel like friends.  I could feel their emotions coming through the pages.  Conversations sounded authentic. The love story was one of the best I have read in a while.  All in all this is a charming book that begs to be read in one sitting. If only life would have cooperated, I would have done just that.  It took me two days to read it, and I set it down begrudgingly.
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I highly recommend this to anyone that likes historical fiction or historical romance.  It is a page turner that you will learn from and provide you with reading enjoyment.  If you like Colonial times, Appalachian Trail, or early Tennessee and Kentucky books, please don’t miss this one.  It gets a 5 out of 5 star rating from me. I received a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and all opinions are my own honest ones.

Book Review: The Christmas Remedy by Cindy Woodsmall & Erin Woodsmall

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

 

 

The Christmas Remedy by rauthors Cindy Woodsmall and Erin Woodsmall is a charming 198 page Amish Christmas book.  The Woodsmall authors do a wonderful job of mixing contemporary Amish and what they call Englisch (us) cultures in this story.  The sweet romance is a also a mystery.  So we have a contemporary Christian Amish romantic mystery.  What a great combination!

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Their writing style is like opening the door into another place.  I gladly glide on in and stay, making many friends while I am there.  It was easy to become invested in this book.  I did within the first few pages.  It was difficult to put the book down until I had finished it.  I felt like a kid wanting to stay on vacation a few more days.  The characters were too likable to just leave.
This is the tale of Amish young woman Holly Zook.  She works in the town pharmacy.  After a medical issue her boss’ son, Brandon, comes home.  These two characters are well defined and true to life.  I met Brandon’s father, Lyle, the beloved pharmacist.  A helpful chicken farmer, Josh Smucker.  There were too many characters to name.  All distinct and likable or perhaps not.
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This book taught me some things I did not know.  One of my three favorite things in a book.  Teach me something.  It also had a God glorifying message.  Check.  I wasn’t sure about that one, but good things come to those that wait.  The last is I want to feel like I am there.  I did.  Obviously these wordsmiths know what they are doing and do it quite well.
The Christmas Remedy was a tad predictable but that did not make it any less enjoyable.  There were issues touched that effect most all of us.  Family, forgiveness, loving others as ourself, helping, healthcare awareness, and envy are a few of those topics.
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I truly enjoyed this Christmas book.  There were friendship, blossoming love, caroling, health fair, smores, family gatherings, and good Amish food.  It received 5 out of 5 stars from me, especially for the strong closing message.  This would be a great stocking stuffer for the reader on your list.  Buy one for yourself.  You will enjoy traveling to Amish country during the holidays while sipping cider in front of your fireplace.
I received a copy of this from Waterbrook and the authors.  All opinions are my own, honest ones.

Preorder your copy

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We don’t want you to miss Cindy Woodsmall‘s upcoming Christmas Novella. Pre-order today and we’ll send you Where Treetops Glistens for free!! Stock up in time for Christmas reading!

Pre-order today >> https://bit.ly/2QQ4TLR

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Indivisible CelebrateLit Blog Tour, Review, and Giveaway.

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Indivisible by author Travis Thrasher is based on a true story and positively powerful.  It was based on the movie by David Evans, which I have not seen yet.  The 336 page book by Barbour Publishing took me through a plethora of emotions as I read nonstop.  It captured me early and I willing stayed until the end.

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Opening the book is a forward stating this book is dedicated to the chaplains of the US Armed Forces and soldiers who valiantly serve to protect our freedom.  Amen.  Where would any of us be without them?  Indivisible broaches many relevant topics and issues that our servicemen and their families face.  After reading it, I had a little better understanding of the trials and trauma facing them.  However, I said “little” because I cannot imagine going through the ordeal myself.
This is a God glorifying tale of husband and wife, Darren and Heather Turner.  He is a Chaplain.  Their relationship and marriage is definitely strained and changed by his deployment.  How could anyone go overseas and come back the same person?   PTSD is discussed.  Yes, it is real and terrible.  Spouses left behind, trying to support one another while raising children alone and feeling neglected is another topic.  That really made me think.  How many times would I have missed my husband had he been gone?  Every single one.  Indivisible does a good job showing the left at home spouse’s side, too.
My emotions were raw by the time I finished this book.  The author did an exemplary job writing this.  I highly recommend this book.  If you have someone in service this may touch a little close to home, but it is wonderful.  A worthy read that is so hard to put down.  My mind keeps revisiting it even though ai finished the book days ago.  Definitely a 5 out of 5 star book.  I received copy of this book from Celebrate Lit.  This is my own, honest review.

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About the Book

Book: Indivisible

Author: Travis Thrasher

Genre: General fiction, drama

Release Date: October 23, 2018

A novelization of the film Indivisible, this is a story of love and marriage and finding each other all over again.

When Darren deploys to Iraq during the surge of 2007, he leaves behind his loving and supportive wife, Heather, and their three small children. Their marriage is the envy of the base, both believing strongly in the calling to serve in the military. Darren knows he’s there to support the troops in their darkest moments as their chaplain, but what he doesn’t realize is that he will face his own dark moments, which will have lasting effects on his marriage.

Meanwhile, Heather is creating a community among the other wives and families left behind. She rallies support back home, realizing the dangers the men and women serving overseas are facing, but she also begins to notice a change in Darren during their brief conversations. When he returns, he is no longer the man who left-the man Heather married. His greatest fear is letting her down, but instead of opening up to her, he shuts her out. Their marriage was so strong before. But how can they get back to where they were . . . or find a new way forward?

Indivisible is a story of sacrifice, marriage, and faith that will leave audiences full of hope even amid their most challenging times.

We are excited to announce that this book is going to be a major motion picture!

Link to movie trailer: https://youtu.be/CHdhbE2tJyA

More about Indivisible

This book is based on a true story, so we’d love for readers and moviegoers to meet the real Darren and Heather Turner:

Darren and Heather Turner both grew up in Georgia, and met in 1999 when Darren was working in campus ministry at the University of Georgia. (Darren is still a Bulldog at heart.) Heather was working as a recruiter for an organization that sends English teachers overseas, and Darren had just returned from a year teaching English in Mongolia when they met. Married that same year, they served another six years together in campus ministry and added three children to their family.  Through the husband of a friend of Heather’s, Darren learned that opportunities existed for service as a military chaplain. In 2006, Darren completed seminary, was commissioned in the Army, and deployed almost immediately. Their family’s experiences from this timeframe are the basis of the new movie INDIVISIBLE. Darren, who is on active duty, and Heather are passionate about serving military families, marriage counseling, and leading marriage retreats. The Turners currently live in North Carolina with their children Elie, Samuel, and Meribeth.

Learn More About the Turners

About the Author

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Bestselling author Travis Thrasher has written over 50 books and worked in the publishing industry for over twenty years. He has written fiction in a variety of genres, from love stories and supernatural thrillers to young adult series. His inspirational stories have included collaborations with filmmakers, musicians, athletes and pastors. He’s also co-written memoirs and self-help books. His novelizations include Do You Believe? and God’s Not Dead 2. Upcoming releases in 2018 include The Black Auxiliary about the lives of the other 17 American black athletes who competed with Jesse Owens in the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin. Travis lives with his wife and three daughters in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Blog Stops

Carpe Diem, October 4

The Becca Files, October 4

A Baker’s Perspective, October 5

Robin is Bookish, October 5

The Power of Words, October 6

Christian Bookaholic, October 6

Splashes of Joy, October 7

Mary Hake, October 7

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 7

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, October 8

Inklings and notions, October 8

God’s Little Bookworm, October 9

Simple Harvest Reads, October 9 (Guest Post from Mindy Houng)

A Reader’s Brain, October 10

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 10

Book by Book, October 10

Just the Write Escape, October 11

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, October 11

Real World Bible Study, October 12

All-of-a-kind Mom, October 12

Bibliophile Reviews, October 13

Pause for Tales, October 13

For The Love of Books, October 14

Texas Book-aholic, October 14

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 15

Cafinated Reads, October 15

All 4 and About Books, October 15

Spoken from the Heart, October 16

Janices book reviews, October 16

Maureen’s Musings, October 17

A Diva’s Heart, October 17

Bigreadersite, October 17

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Travis is giving away a grand prize that includes the Indivisible novel along with a devotional!!

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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/d627/indivisible-celebration-tour-giveaway

Find a Book Friday: Dare to Begin Again Celebrate Lit Tour

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess
Dare to Begin Again by author Rosalinda Rivera has an enticing pink cover with a lovely bouquet of flowers and says “Let God Write Your Best Future”.  Okay, I’m in.  This 184 page by Whitaker House had me with its cover.  Then when I learned the DARE stood for Decide, Allow, Rise, Enjoy there was no putting this encouraging book down.
After an introduction there are sixteen chapters with different topics.  All of these are relevant in today’s life.  Dream Again, Forgive Again, Risk Again, Trust Again, Heal Again, and Love Again are just a sampling of what you will explore.   There is a story, a God lesson, Bible tie in, closing with “I DARE YOU TO…”. Author Rivera encourages readers at the end to DARE to whatever the chapter title is.  Dare to Hope, Begin, Forgive, or Listen.
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I enjoyed the author’s writing style.  It was easy to see this book has been well thought, researched, and organized.  The author has a smooth style of writing and her words seem to just flow.  Her stories and experiences are transparent and written to help readers.  She provides encouragement, scripture, and food for thought.  Author Rivera gives many positive, inspiring suggestions that stayed with me.  “Stay positive and don’t allow negative thoughts to enter.”  Another favorite is “Don’t let your past hurts, disappointments, and rejections hold you down.”  Both of those stuck with me and had me nodding in agreement.
This book reminds readers that God is with us and for us.  He has a plan for our future.  She says to keep moving forward with determination and God,  It is an upbeat, positive book.  There is a lot of cheerleading to uplift readers but not a lot of instruction on how to exactly accomplish your goal.  That is more implied or left to readers.  She does give some guidance but not an abundance.
Author Rivera has written a God glorifying book filled with ideas, support, inspiration, scripture, and experiences to help readers.  It is really a wonderful book.  Any readers club, small group, or individual read would highly benefit from reading it.  I highly recommend it and rate it 5 out of 5 stars.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. These are my own honest opinions and review.

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About the Book:

Book Title: Dare to Begin Again

Author: Rosalinda Rivera
Genre: Non-Fiction, Christian Life, Woman’s Issue
Release date: September 4, 2018

We all have struggles and challenges in life. Whether they are of our own making or not, things don’t always work out. Sometimes, we just give up on our dreams and goals. But it doesn’t have to be that way! God is a God of new beginnings, and throughout the entire Bible, we read about people who were stuck, disappointed, and faced impossible situations—people God freed. Rosalinda Torres Rivera challenges us to Dare to Begin Again. Using stories from her own life, other people, and biblical times, Rosalinda offers inspirational, down-to-earth advice on beginning again. Each chapter tackles a different issue where you may be “stuck”—such as an inability to forgive, trust, or hope—and examples of people who overcame similar challenges. Practical tasks at the end of each chapter walk you through a DARE challenge (Decide, Allow, Rise, Enjoy) to help you move closer to a fresh start. Rosalinda is the daughter of Victor Torres, an ex-gang member from Brooklyn, New York, and his wife, Carmen, founders of the New Life For Youth ministry. She has seen more than twenty thousand people get out of tough situations and turn their lives around. “They’re people whose tales of transformation prove God is still at work,” she says. “He’s written and re-written their life’s chapters—and He’s willing to do the same for you.” It takes a commitment, but with the help of God, inspiring, true stories, and practical applications, you can Dare to Begin Again.

Click here to purchase your copy!

About the Author

Rosalinda Torres Rivera is the executive director of New Life For Youth, one of Virginia’s largest residential facilities helping to rehabilitate people from a life of addiction. She has been reaching out to families in crisis, poverty, and hopelessness for over twenty-five years. Using her business skills, Rosalinda developed a model of social enterprise to sustain the non-profit New Life For Youth by creating businesses that train thousands of young people in job skills and leadership.

47B0BEFA-8F9F-45A2-914D-4E00541D43D9She is also the president of New Life Enterprises, the founder of Mercy Moms Home, a place for single mothers to find hope and healing, and the founder of Bella Women’s Ministry in Richmond, Virginia, which hosts annual conferences for over five hundred women.
Each year, Rosalinda is a featured presenter at various events nationwide. She has ministered throughout the world and has traveled to over twenty-two countries. From the White House to the local community, she has been nationally recognized for her impact in bringing hope to the hopeless.
Rosalinda was appointed to the Board of Governors of the National Association of Nonprofit Organizations & Executives, headquartered in Washington, DC. Style Magazineselected her as a “Top 40 under 40” leader for her impact in Richmond, Virginia.
In 2018, the Valentine Museum in Richmond will feature the work of her family as one of the city’s first Hispanic families to impact Richmond in the non-profit sector.
Rosalinda is the daughter of Victor Torres, an ex-gang member from the streets of New York, and his wife, Carmen, the founders of New Life For Youth and pastors of New Life Outreach International Church. She served as an associate producer on Victor, a movie about her father’s journey from drugs and gangs to Jesus and redemption.
Rosalinda and her husband, Carlos, have three children: Alana, Gabriel, and Victor.

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Book Review: This is the Day by Tim Tebow, 5 Stars

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

This is the Day by author and sports figure Tim Tebow is a wonderful book. It is filled with encouragement and inspirational words to uplift and motivate readers. In his book, Tim challenges readers to search for joy, whether little or big, every day.   The Bible says. In Psalm 118:24 “This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.”   The author is explaining just how to do exactly that. He challenge readers to put life to that scripture daily.

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I have never read one of author Tebow’s books and was pleasantly surprised by his writing style. This is the Day is well researched, planned, organized, and written. Tebow’s style is easy to follow and flows effortlessly. Like coffee with a friend, I drank up the stories in this book with enjoyment. I enjoyed reading this book and learned many insuring things.

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Using his own personal experience the author has written this book from a Christian perspective. He uses the stories of others’, too. It is a positive book for anyone and will help them turn their negativity around. It appears the main goal of this book is to encourage both Christians and non-Christians to change the way they may be thinking about themselves and/or their circumstances.

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In this God glorifying book, each of the twelve chapters reveals how God worked in Tebow’s life. Even though we might not be aware, God is always there and always in control. He encourages readers to dream dreams, make goals, be intentional about doing things that matter, to have a positive influence in the world around them, and most of all to make today be the day to live a life of purpose, meaning, and significance. Wow. How is that for encouragement?

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Beginning each chapter is a relative quote from a famous person of note. Then the chapters themselves tackles relevant subjects among which are Listening to the Right Voice, Live with Open Hands, Put in the Work, Open Your Eyes, and Get in the Game. Each chapter ends with a section called “Make this your day”. Questions are proposed and suggestions given on how to apply the chapter’s principle in today’s life. A self reflection question ends this section. Definitely leaves readers something to ponder. Acknowledgments, information on the author and Tim Tebow Foundation close the 209 page book.

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I would highly recommend this book to anyone. Middle schoolers to grandparents would enjoy reading it and be inspired. They would be able to help encourage others, too. It would make a great small group or reading club book. Perfect for birthday or Christmas gifts. It definitely earned a 5 out of 5 stars from me. I received a complimentary copy of the uncorrected proof of this book and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.

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Find a Book Friday: The Hope of Azure Springs by Rachel Fordham

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

The Hope of Azure Springs is the debut novel by author Rachel Fordham.  This Christian historical romance fiction has a lovely cover that is captivating.  The 336 pages are packed with mystery, life lessons, emotions, light romance and dotted with humor.

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This is the tale of Em.  As the book opens she has suffered a gunshot wound and presents a mystery.  Caleb is the gallant Sheriff.  They are thrown together to solve the mystery of who shot Em and why.  These two characters are extremely well defined, carry quite a bit of emotional baggage, and are very easy to like.  It is not hard to get drawn into their story.  I was invested within the first chapter.

The secondary characters are not all as well defined.  Some have great details and are then forgotten.  I wanted to hear more about them.  The dialogue for the most part flowed smoothly but there were times it sounded a little stiff or too modern.

The story itself was well thought, but at times the writing felt a bit choppy.  At one point I thought the book was over and it still have a few chapters to go.  The next chapters enhanced the story but easily could have been the beginning of a Book Two.

The author does a great job relating emotions in her writing.  I could feel the emotional roller coaster that Em was on.  Many times I teared up or cheered while reading this.  The banter between Em and Caleb always put a smile on my face.  Both characters grew a lot throughout the story.

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The spiritual content was there but extremely light.  Speaking about prayer and God’s goodness was the only thing I caught, and I do not remember any comments about redemption or salvation.  However, following the story were discussion questions!  For me that is a biggie.  If a book club or group is reading a book, it is nice to have questions.  This one has that nicely covered.

I liked the story and will pick up the next book penned by author Fordham.  Anyone who enjoys historical romantic fiction will want to read it.  The life lessons, gossiping, inner and outer beauty, and helping other are ones good for teenagers and up.  I rated this a 4 out of 5 stars and definitely recommend it.