Find a Book Friday: The Life-Giving Leader

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shadow Sister by Katherine Scott Jones

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the Book

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

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

Giveaway:

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

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

About the Author

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

Connect with Katherine here: Website

Guest Post from Katherine Scott Jones

Shadow Sister: Outtake Reel

By Katherine Scott Jones

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

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

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

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

Working Titles

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

– The Sweetness of Light

– Variations on Shadows and Light.

Characters

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

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

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

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

– Names:

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

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

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

Unused research

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

– Bolivian fun facts

o Customs.

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

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

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

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

– Quotes:

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

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

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

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 4

Carpe Diem, September 4

Reflections From My Bookshelves, September 5

The Power of Words, September 5

Among the Reads, September 5

Fiction Aficionado, September 6

The Becca Files, September 6

RebekahsQuill, September 7

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, September 7

Bigreadersite, September 7

Just the Write Escape, September 8

Jennifer Sienes: Where Crisis and Christ Collide, September 8

Bibliophile Reviews, September 9

Living Life Free in Christ, September 9

Inspirationally Ever After, September 10

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, September 10

Texas Book-aholic, September 11

Livin Lit, September 11

Janices book reviews, September 12

Remembrancy, September 12

All-of-a-kind Mom, September 13

Inklings and notions, September 13

The Midnight Bookaholic, September 14

Pause for Tales, September 14

The Mimosa Blossom, September 14

Kelly Harrel, September 15

Two Points of Interest, September 15

A Baker’s Perspective, September 16

proud to be an autism mom, September 16

Godly Book Reviews, September 17

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 17

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

Posted on August 31, 2018 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

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

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

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

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

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

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

Find a Book Friday: The Patriot Bride

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Must Read Monday: The Fashion Designer by Nancy Moser

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

$14.99 at Amazon, released 7/24/18

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

http://www.heartwingsblog.com/

Find a Book Friday: Unafraid by Carey Scott

Posted on July 27, 2018July 18, 2018 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Let me ask you a personal question. How authentic are you? Perhaps being authentic and allowing people to know the real you is frightening. If so, this will be a book that you will enjoy. I certainly did. At times I felt like it was written just for me. Other times I would nod my head knowingly in understanding having traveling that road. Whether you are a reformed scaredy cat or struggling to find your footing, this book is a mind opening, thought provoking, helpful book taking biblical wisdom.

“Unafraid – Be you. Be authentic. Find the grit and grace to shine.” by author Carey Scott is a delightfully encouraging book by Barbour Publishing, Inc. This 256 page paperback was filled to the brim with inspiration and words to ponder long after the book has been finished. It is a book I will keep around to share with others or read again when I need it.

This is an extremely well written book. It was well thought, planned and organized. The author’s style of writing is nice and easy to read as well as understand. I felt like I was chatting with a new friend over coffee. It was lovely to read some of the thoughts and ideas shared. The author did her research and uses Biblical truths for encouragement and teaching. For me that is crucial for any Christian book, fiction and non-fiction.

This book was extremely uplifting and inspired me to persevere, trust My Heavenly Father’s direction, and be the person I was created to be. Failures happen and it is best to learn from them instead of sweep them under the rug. The most important thing I took from this book was to be myself. Don’t be afraid to be myself, to be authentic. If I am having a good day, share the joy. If I am having a bad day, don’t brood but don’t say everything is just fine.

Practical tips and tricks that can be applied are presented. These are jewels that you will use now and want to share with friends. This is a helpful book that would make a fabulous book club read. Even if you just gather a few friends for some positive reinforcement, read this book together and discuss it. You will be enriched.

I highly recommend this terrific book. Five out of five stars were gladly given for the rating. Anyone or group would benefit from the wisdom, biblical teachings, and encouragement gleaned from it. A copy was provided by Barbour Publishing for my honest review.

Read a Book Monday: The Hope Jar, a 5 Star Read

Posted on July 23, 2018July 22, 2018 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Do you read to feed your mind just as you eat to feed your body? Most people read but like we often eat we don’t consider the “nutritional contents” in reading. Today I have a book that will nourish your mind. No junk food in it at all. It is a clean Christian Amish novel that is engaging, thought provoking, provides information, inspiration, and even recipes. Are you interested? Great, I will tell you more.

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New York Times Best Selling author Wanda Brunstetter has penned a new series entitles The Prayer Jars. Book One, The Hope Jar, is a delightful 311 pages that will transport readers between the modern Englisch world and modern Amish world. The book is much different than any other I have read by author Brunstetter. Her writing style hasn’t changed but the story and information given has. This book was extremely well thought, planned, and organized as well as well written.

The book centers around an elderly Amish couple, two twenty something young women, and two young men. Many tough topics are tackled in this fiction work. Things in which we can all relate are presented in these pages such as family issues, parental rules, teenage and young adult disobedience, death, deceit, lies, abuse, dishonesty, betrayal, and someone struggling with faith. It would be an injustice to divulge much about the plot. Reading it and discovering this delightful story on one’s own is much better.

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The characters are lovely and some despicable. The author does a great job defining them and rounding them so that we come to love or really dislike them. I became invested in their lives and emotions. Certain situations were relatable either first hand or through a friend. Dialog flows smoothly and some Amish words are slipped in with definition. Readers will learn a few Amish or Pennsylvania Deutsch words by the end of this book. Much information on the Amish is provided. It would be the perfect book for someone wanting to know the what’s and why’s of Amish life.

After the story, readers will be delighted to find recipes that were mentioned in the story. As a bonus there are discussion questions for book clubs or if you want to dig a bit deeper yourself. Author information, a listing of all of the author’s works and a sneak peak at the cover of Book Two, The Forgiving Jar close out this book.

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Definitely I recommend for a variety of reasons. It provides information some readers may not currently know about Amish, farm life, and scripture. Topics broached are tough, real life issues, and someone might need help with their situation. Recipes used or discussed in a book and then given are a favorite thing of mine, and this book follows through with that. Don’t tease me. If you are going to tempt me with making a delicious dish, then please share the recipe. The life lessons and inspirational lessons are phenomenal. Rating this book a 5 out of 5 star is warranted. This reader is eagerly awaiting Book Two. A few of author Brunstetter’s works have been turned into plays. I for one am hoping for a movie next.

A copy of The Hope Jar was provided by Barbour Publishing for my honest opinion. I can and will give no other.

Find a Book Friday: River to Redemption by Ann Gabhart

Posted on July 20, 2018July 20, 2018 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

River to Redemption was magnificent. From the beginning pages I was enthralled. Dishes piled up, chores went undone, but I could not put this masterpiece down. I loved most everything about it. Set in Springfield, Kentucky during 1833 the author tackles commoners’ views on slavery and abolition. The fiction tale is rich with history, beginning with the tragic cholera epidemic. Women’s rights, attire, and what society deemed proper were at times unbelievable, but rang true to stories I had heard from my grandmother who was raised in Kentucky.

The characters, both main and secondary, are fabulous. We first meet seven year Adria Starr and quickly it is twelve years later and she is a young lady. Adria is a feisty southern young lady with a mind of her own and a huge heart. Two young men are after her hand, but Adria has many things on her mind as well as in her heart. Prim and proper Ruth is a character that like Adria lost family to cholera. They become a family out of necessity. A new young minister comes and with him good instruction on praying.

Louis is the slave that rescues Adria at the beginning of the book and helps the entire town of Springfield. His faith is as strong as his big heart. His master is an old man and when he becomes ill things look grim for Louis. Aunt Tilda is a sassy cook that brings life and laughter to the book. She was one of my favorites along with a well-meaning match-making widow. There are even more characters, some lovable and others not.

Everyone is thrown together through tragedy and need. Faith in God and believing in prayer sustains them and they thrive. There are bumps and bruises along the way, but that is true to life. The absence of a pet was disappointing for me, but I loved that the characters baked a lot. The author described the cakes, breads, and pies so that I could almost smell the cinnamon.

Author Gabhart has written a beautiful, captivating tale of love, disappointment, hope, loss, faith, freedom, and family. There are so many inspirational messages in this book. For me, that is the mark of a good Christian book. This one had that and more. Scripture, encouragement, life lessons, issues from the past and present are all found within these 319 pages. It is full of emotion and thought provoking subjects. In fact, it is so delightful I hate to give away any of the story. You will revel in discovering it for yourself.

I very highly recommend this charming book. In fact, I devoured it in one sitting. You will be entertained, educated, encouraged, and enlightened. There are no study questions at the back, but like I often say, this would be a nice book club selection. It would be nice to have someone to chat over coffee about this page-turner. I rated it 5 out of 5 stars only because I couldn’t figure out how to squeeze one more out to make it 6. This should win awards and yes, be made into a Hallmark movie. A copy was provided by Revell for my honest review.