Hope in the Mountain River Celebrate Lit Tour and Giveaway

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

My thoughts

Hope in the Mountain River by bestselling author Misty M. Beller is Book 2 in her Call of the Rockies Series. This is a Christian Historical Romantic fiction that brings rugged life in 1800s Montana to life. It caught my attention immediately and was a pleasant diversion while being self-quarantined.

Author Beller does extensive research and has put some fascinating details in her beautifully written novel. I enjoyed the Native American language and like the character Suzanne in Chapter wish I knew it. Everything was easy to imagine with the vivid descriptions. I pondered living in a cave and eating roasted buffalo meat. The things they did or rather had to do pulled at my heartstrings.

This is the tale of Elan. She has endured much and trying hard to heal. It is also the story of Joel. His brother is missing, and Joel has ventured out to search for him. They struggle and encounter danger, but they persevere. I was captivated with their journey and this book. It was hard to stop reading it.

The main and secondary characters are great. Each one has a unique and well established personality. The conversations were smooth and sounded authentic. I looked forward to reading them.

One of the things I loved about this fictional story was its message of faith. Reading about a character coming to God is beautiful. The author did this journey wonderfully. Her message of trusting God is spot on. Faith, hope, and love are included as inspiration in this novel in such a way that I was so moved.

While this is Book 2 in the series, it could easily be read as a stand alone. I enjoyed Book 1, Freedom in the Mountain Wind, and am glad I had already read it. This series is very good. I highly recommend it. It gets a 5 out of 5 star rating from this reader. A copy was provided by a Celebrate Lit but these are my honest words.

About the Book

Book: Hope in the Mountain River

Author: Misty M. Beller

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: March 31, 2020

This epic journey is not at all what she expected.

Joel Vargas can’t believe he’s lost his older brother in the wilds of the Rocky Mountains after surviving their harrowing voyage across the Atlantic. And he can’t shake the feeling that Adam—his only living relative—is in dire trouble. No matter what the cost, he and his band of friends won’t stop until Adam is found. He doesn’t have time to contend with the two Indian women who seem to be shadowing his every move.

After the devastating loss of her daughter and husband to a sickness that swept through their Nez Perce camp, Elan is desperate to find an escape from her grief. As she and her friend journey through the mountains toward the great river, a band of white men is the last thing she expects to find, especially as winter blows in full force.

When the dangers increase, accomplishing Joel’s mission becomes the only hope for all their survival. If the elements don’t consume them, Elan has a feeling life will never be the same for any of them.

From a USA Today bestselling author comes another epic journey through breathless landscapes and intense adventure.

Click here to get your copy.

About the Author

Misty M. Beller is a USA Today bestselling author of 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 children now add another dimension to her life, keeping her both grounded and crazy.

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.

More from Misty

I’ve always been a horse lover, and was blessed to grow up on a farm. My brother and I each had ponies of our own and rode hours each day. When we were old enough to graduate to full-size horses, we met neighbors who also had horses and loved to ride together. The two mares they rode had a mottled black and white spotted look, which I knew to be part of the Appaloosa breed. Through hears of riding together, I developed a deep appreciation for those two Appaloosa horses, as well as respect for the entire breed! Those two mares proved they could outrun and outlast any of the other horses in our riding group.

I’ve long wanted to include Appaloosas in one of my stories, especially since the breed was said to have begun in the Nez Perce tribe who lived just west of the Rocky Mountains. I’m so excited for you to meet Elan, the heroine in Hope in the Mountain River!

Elan and her friend are traveling through the Rockies on their Appaloosa horses, animals who can ride faster and longer than all the other horses in their group—even through the treacherous terrain of the Rocky Mountains!

I pray you love this story as much as I loved writing it. Enjoy a glimpse of the famous Appaloosa horse!

Blog Stops

Inklings and notions, March 31

Mary Hake, March 31

Through the Fire Blogs, April 1

deb’s Book Review, April 1

A Baker’s Perspective, April 2

Genesis 5020, April 2

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, April 2

Texas Book-aholic, April 3

Jeanette’s Thoughts, April 3

For the Love of Literature, April 4

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, April 4

Rebecca Tews, April 5

For Him and My Family, April 5

Blessed & Bookish, April 6

Splashes of Joy, April 6

Bigreadersite, April 6

Betti Mace, April 7

She Lives To Read, April 7

Book of Ruth Ann, April 8

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 8

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 8

Simple Harvest Reads, April 9 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, April 9

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 10

janicebookreviews, April 10

Blossoms and Blessings, April 11

Adventures of a Travelers Wife, April 11

Artistic Nobody, April 12 (Guest Reviewer Donna Cline)

Pause for Tales, April 12

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, April 13

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, April 13

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Misty is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/f73b/hope-in-the-mountain-river-celebration-tour-giveaway

A People Chosen Celebrate Lit Book Tour

Posted on April 2, 2020April 1, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

A People Chosen, God’s Purpose and Plans for Israel and the Nations by author Karen Engle is a Bible Study that is meant to last for eight weeks. It can be done individually in a self guided manner. I found it absolutely fascinating beginning with its lovely cover.

Author Engle did in-depth research and presented it in a well organized study. Her writing style is clear and easy to understand. I had no trouble focusing on the lesson. The Bible versions she used were NIV and NLT which are two of the more popular versions followed closely by the KJV. (I owned a Christian Bookstore.)

The lessons are thought provoking, educational, and inspiring. I loved reading about prophecy. Some of the information was so extensive I needed to go back and read it again, but I wanted to absorb all of it. Israel is important to God and that should make it important to us.

This is a great Biblical study. I highly recommend it. Any small group would benefit from it. There is so much to ponder and discuss. If anyone is interested in the Jewish people or Bible Studies, they would love this one. It gets a 5 out of 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my honest words.

About the Book

Book: A People Chosen

Author: Karen Engle

Genre: Non – Fiction / Christian / Bible Study

Release Date: March, 2017

Is God finished with the Jewish people? Understanding Israel according to the Bible and not the media, political views, or personal opinion sheds incredible light on why Israel and the Jewish people exist today. God is not finished with the tiny nation and has a great purpose and plan for Israel that will impact the world. A People Chosen: God’s Purpose and Plan for Israel and the Nations is a self-guided eight-lesson Bible study. You will learn about the creation of Israel in Genesis, God’s promises to Israel and the nations, Israel’s scattering and current regathering to Israel, the return of King Jesus to rule and reign from Jerusalem, and why Israel is pivotal in God’s plan of redemption. It is a love story of faithfulness, mercy, and justice. It is the story of a people chosen by God to be a conduit for God’s blessings to all mankind. It is a weighty call, and it has not come without a price.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Karen earned a master’s in biblical studies from Western Seminary. She is an adjunct writing instructor with Moody Bible Institute, a copy editor for Faithlife Corporation, and owner of East Gate Editing. Her passion is taking study groups to the land of Israel, which she says brings the Bible from “black and white to technicolor.”

More from Karen

There is something peculiar about the Jews. They are one of the few ancient people groups that has endured into modern times, and their religion—Judaism—is one of the world’s oldest.

The Jewish people have been miraculously regathered together into a thriving nation after being scattered throughout the earth. Hebrew, Israel’s official language, was once a dead speech but has been revived and is now an active, living language with more than five million native speakers.

They have been the most persecuted people in history and as such their existence baffles historians and theologians alike. There is no logical rationale for the Jews’ existence. Considering the Holocaust alone, the Jewish people should not have survived. And yet, they do.

In fact, they have flourished and been a blessing to the world.

The narrative of the Bible is centered on this unique nation of individuals established by God thousands of years ago in ancient Mesopotamia. From Abraham to King David to Jesus, the story of the Bible is knit together with a common thread: the Jewish people. It is a love story of faithfulness, mercy, and justice. It is the story of a people chosen by God to be a conduit for God’s blessings to humanity. It is a weighty call, and it has not come without a price.

Yet, many people, even Christians, don’t give this a second thought.

About twelve years ago, God stirred my heart toward this tiny nation, and I subsequently spent years studying the history of the Jewish people and God’s purpose and plan for them according to Scripture. And it rocked my theological world. I was in the middle of seminary, and no one (outside of one professor, who is still my favorite) talked about Israel. And though there were books on the topic, I could not find one Bible study.

When I talk to people about Israel and its importance in Scripture and thus modern-day world events, there seems to be a disconnect—a lack of understanding as to why anyone would bring up the topic. Why should anyone care? What is so significant about Israel?

I wrote this Bible study to answer these questions. It’s a cross between a book and a Bible study and is designed to take participants by the hand and help them understand why God cares so deeply about this peculiar nation. It’s a culmination of many trips to the land and years of personal study—and I’m still learning. Heavy on Scripture, full of beautiful images from around Israel, and focused on Christ, the study will turn the black and white pages of your Bible to technicolor.

I hope that those who do the study will begin to see Israel as a beautiful example of God’s faithfulness to his Word.

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, March 26

Inklings and notions, March 27

For Him and My Family, March 28

Blossoms and Blessings, March 29 (Author Interview)

deb’s Book Review, March 30

Where Crisis & Christ Collide, March 31

Genesis 5020, April 1

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, April 2

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 3

For the Love of Literature, April 4 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, April 4

Spoken from the Heart, April 5

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 6

Artistic Nobody, April 7 (Author Interview)

SPLASHES of Joy, April 8

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Karen is giving away the grand prize package of an Israel-themed basket: 6 copies of my book/Bible study A People Chosen, the movie The Hope on the rebirth of Israel in 1948, the book Your People Will Be My People, and a $25 gift card!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/f737/a-people-chosen-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Blue Cloak Celebrate Lit Tour and Giveaway

Posted on March 31, 2020March 29, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

The Blue Cloak by author Shannon McNear is a gritty Christian Historical Suspense based on notorious real life killers the Harpes. This is book five in the True Colors, Historical Stories of American Crime Series. I was shocked as I read the horror these two men inflicted.

This was not an easy book for me to read nor was it easy to put down. I was horrified at the heinous acts “Big and Little” mindlessly doled out to innocents. The setting was in an area where some of my family lived so it was fun reading the names of familiar towns. The story begins in 1797 Tennessee and moves to Kentucky.

The author did her research exceptionally well. She has a style of writing that drew me in even though many times I shook my head or flinched. There are a few surprise twists. The historical true part of the story is unfathomable. My emotions were raw by the end. Only a good author can do that.

Faith was woven throughout this gruesome story. It was the light that shined through the darkness. The author spared us many details and left much to our own imagination. I was thankful for that.

This is the tale of what some consider the first American serial killers and the women they held captive. It is also the story of Rachel and Ben. A sweet love story in the midst of chaos. The characters were all well rounded. I wanted to counsel them and tell them when they were making mistakes.

If you like crime stories, you will love this. The history and story are rich with a depth of layers that will surprise you. I highly recommend it. A copy was provided by the publisher but this is my own opinion of this 5 star book.

About the Book

Book: The Blue Cloak

Author: Shannon McNear

Genre: Christian Historical/Suspense

Release Date: March, 2020

Evil Incarnate Leaves a Trail of Destruction across the Frontier

Book 5 in the True Colors series—Fiction Based on Strange-But True History

Rachel Taylor lives a rather mundane existence in 1797 at the way station her family runs along the Wilderness Road in Tennessee. She attends her friend Sally Rice’s wedding only to watch the marriage dissolve into horror has the groom, Wiley Harpe, and his cousin Micajah become murderers on the run, who drag their families along. Declaring a “war on all humanity,” the Harpes won’t be stopped, and Ben Langford is on their trail to see if his own cousin was one of their latest victims.

How many will die before peace can return to the frontier?

Click here for your copy.

About the Author

Transplanted to North Dakota after more than two decades in Charleston, South Carolina, Shannon McNear loves losing herself in local history. She’s a military wife, mom of eight, mother-in-law of three, grammie of two, and a member of ACFW and RWA. Her first novella, Defending Truth in A Pioneer Christmas Collection, was a 2014 RITA® finalist. When she’s not sewing, researching, or leaking story from her fingertips, she enjoys being outdoors, basking in the beauty of the northern prairies. Connect with her at www.shannonmcnear.com, or on Facebook and Goodreads.

More from Shannon

How dark is too dark for a Christian to write?

That was the question I wrestled with when deciding whether or not to take on the story of the Harpes. The histories in Scripture itself aren’t rated G, but writing fiction requires a level of detail and depth of emotion I wasn’t sure would be wise, or helpful, to explore in this case. But as I prayed and sought the counsel of those whose discernment I trust, the answer came back, overwhelmingly …

Is God stronger than the darkness, or not?

Well, of course He is. And nothing in human history has ever escaped His notice, or taken Him by surprise.

So, was there something redeeming to be found in the tale of the Harpes?

For the first few weeks of research, I walked around in a state of shock at the horror of the historical accounts, but details surfaced that helped me shape my fictional characters Rachel and Ben. With Rachel working in her family’s trading post near the wild frontier town of Knoxville, Tennessee, and Ben a lawyer who recently passed the bar, the real-life Hugh Lawson White provided a handy connection point between them. Many other details fell together in ways I had not foreseen when I began developing the story. Sally Rice Harpe, however, rose to the forefront. This was more her story than anyone’s, but realizing I couldn’t properly write the book without using her point of view? That was scary. I knew the moments I’d have to visit, some of them in real-time.

Despite the tragedy, however, I could see an overarching story of spiritual warfare. Felt a growing conviction that prayer must have played a vital role in bringing the Harpes’ reign of terror to an end. So it is my hope that against the backdrop of one of the most chilling episodes of our country’s early history, the hand of God shows clearly, and that yes, the reader finds it redemptive.

Blog Stops

Just the Write Escape, March 24

Texas Book-aholic, March 24

Inklings and notions, March 25

Girls in White Dresses, March 25

Emily Yager, March 25

Godly Book Reviews, March 26

Genesis 5020, March 26

Remembrancy, March 26

Among the Reads, March 27

Through the Fire Blogs, March 27

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, March 28

Christian Bookaholic, March 28

Inside the Wong Mind, March 28

For the Love of Literature, March 29

For Him and My Family, March 29

Betti Mace, March 30

Older & Smarter?, March 30

deb’s Book Review, March 30

Robin’s Nest, March 31

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, March 31

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 1

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, April 1

Stories By Gina, April 1

By The Book, April 2

Adventures of a Travelers Wife, April 2

Blossoms and Blessings, April 2

A Reader’s Brain, April 3

Connie’s History Classroom, April 3

Artistic Nobody, April 3 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Tell Tale Book Reviews, April 4

Back Porch Reads, April 4

Daysong Reflections, April 4

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 5

Pause for Tales, April 5

Britt Reads Fiction, April 5

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 6

Hallie Reads, April 6

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, April 6

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Shannon is giving away the grand prize package of a copy of The Blue Cloak and a $25 Amazon gift card!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/f7a3/the-blue-cloak-celebration-tour-giveaway

Encountering God’s Heart for You Celebrate Lit Tour and Giveaway

Posted on March 27, 2020March 24, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

Author Diane Storting has provided a 365 Day Journal with her book Encountering God’s Heart for You. Going from Genesis all the way through Revelation this is a devotional journey throughout the Bible focusing on God’s heart and plan for us. It is not a replacement but rather a supplement to daily scripture reading.

The writing style was pleasing and easy to ready. The book was divided into two main sections: Encountering God’s Heart for You in the Old Testament and Encountering God’s Heart for You in the New Testament. That is rather expected. These two sections are further divided into categories. Old Testament ones include: The Books of Law, The Books of History, The Books of Poetry and Wisdom, and The Books of Prophecy. New Testament ones are: The Gospels, The Book of History (Acts), The Letters, and The Book of Prophecy (Revelation). As you can see, everything has been covered.

Daily offerings are numbered rather than dated. It doesn’t matter when this is started because the first day is actually Day 1 and not January 1st. Days begin with a title along with books and chapters of the Bible being discussed. A Scripture verse is highlighted and the devotion ends in prayer.

This is a lovely devotional. It makes a beautiful companion for daily bible reading. I learned from the timeless lessons. Anyone would glean something from this. I definitely recommend it for any Christian. It receives a 5 start rating from me. A copy was received from Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest words.

About the Book

Book: Encountering God’s Heart For You

Author: Diane Stortz

Genre: Christian non-fiction, Devotional

Release Date: September 3, 2019

God put the Bible together for you, and he wants you to understand and know him better. But sometimes you can get lost in the details and miss the big picture. The Bible is more than just a collection of wisdom, instructions, and history. It’s one unified story of the incredible love of God!

Encountering God’s Heart for You takes you on a daily journey through the full narrative of Scripture in a year. And in the process, it will draw you nearer to God as you discover his love and compassion. It won’t cover every verse, or even every chapter, in the Bible, but by the time you’re through, you’ll have a strong grasp of what the Bible is all about.

Reading Scripture isn’t just a way to collect information or check something off a to-do list. Let this book bring you into God’s presence to better understand the Bible’s story of love, sacrifice, and redemption as he draws you to himself.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Diane Stortz is a multipublished author who writes to make God’s wonders known to the next generation. Diane’s books for women, A Woman’s Guide to Reading the Bible in a Year and Encountering God’s Heart for You, both from Bethany House, encourage women to get to know God through His Word, the Bible. Her children’s releases include the best-selling Say & Pray Bible and I AM: 40 Reasons to Trust God, both from Tommy Nelson. Diane and her husband have two married daughters and five grandchildren—all boys! Visit her at www.DianeStortz.com.

More from Diane

Twenty years ago, I was invited to join a women’s Bible study group planning to read through the Bible in a year to get to know God.

Although I’d been a Christian for many years and had read many parts of the Bible and used the Bible in my work as an editor, I had never actually read the entire Bible.

I joined the group. We read about three chapters a day and met weekly on Monday nights to discuss what we’d read.

I’ve repeated that experience in various forms most years since then, and it has changed my life in so many ways. (Getting to know God does that, right?)

I’m convinced that one of the most loving things we can do for someone else is to invite and encourage her to become a lifelong reader of the Word, and to read it together.

That’s how I view my new devotional, Encountering God’s Heart for You. It’s an invitation to every woman to pick up her Bible, read along with me, and look together for all the ways God teaches us about himself on every page.

Blog Stops

For the Love of Literature, March 21

Through the Lens of Scripture, March 22

Holly Jo Morris, March 22

Inklings and notions, March 23

amandainpa, March 24

deb’s Book Review, March 24

Genesis 5020, March 25

For Him and My Family, March 26

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, March 27

Spoken from the Heart, March 28

Lights in a Dark World, March 29

SPLASHES of Joy, March 29

Texas Book-aholic, March 30

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 30

She Lives To Read, March 31

Remembrancy, April 1

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 2

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 2

Lis Loves Reading, April 3

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Diane is giving away the grand prize package of a journal, a set of Scripture cards, and a set of gel pens!!

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/f6ec/encountering-god-s-heart-for-you-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Crow’s Call by Wanda Brunstetter

Posted on March 26, 2020March 25, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Best Selling author Wanda Brunstetter has written another fantastic page turning tale with her newest book, The Crow’s Call. This Amish story is different than the ones most often told by author Brunstetter. It is still a Christian Amish Romance but has a mystery to it. I absolutely loved it and could not put it down!

This is the page turning story of the King family. It is so captivating that I was immediately invested in the story. The lives of the family members were very interesting. Each character possessed a unique personality that made them easy to befriend. All are believable and well thought. Even some of the characters from The Prayer Jar series show up in this new series. I enjoyed the new Englisch characters and the lessons they taught.

The story opens with tragedy and heartbreak. It then deals with the timeless issues of loss and dealing with a new normal. The author has offered so many life and faith lessons in this book. Her writing style is superb. There are surprises and twists as the tale unfolds. The conversations are smooth and sound authentic.

I highly recommend this book. The mystery is intriguing, the romance sweet, and the Amish delightful. I loved the inspirational message woven throughout this 5 star book. I am eagerly awaiting Book #2! A copy was provided by the publisher but these are my honest words.

Series: Amish Greenhouse Mysteries (Book 1)
Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Shiloh Run Press (March 3, 2020)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1643520210
ISBN-13: 978-1643520216

About the Author

New York Times bestselling and award-winning author Wanda E. Brunstetter is one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre. She has written more than 100 books translated in four languages. With over 11 million copies sold, Wanda’s stories consistently earn spots on the nation’s most prestigious bestseller lists and have received numerous awards.

Wanda’s ancestors were part of the Anabaptist faith, and her novels are based on personal research intended to accurately portray the Amish way of life. Her books are well-read and trusted by many

Amish, who credit her for giving readers a deeper understanding of the people and their customs.

When Wanda visits her Amish friends, she finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and close family ties. Wanda enjoys photography, ventriloquism, gardening, bird-watching, beachcombing, and spending time with her family. She and her husband, Richard, have been blessed with two grown children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

To learn more about Wanda, visit her website at www.wandabrunstetter.com.

Draw Me to Your Side Book Tour and Giveaway by Celebrate Lit

Posted on March 25, 2020March 24, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

Draw Me to Your Side is Book #4 in author Marguerite Martin Gray’s Revolutionary Faith Series. This Christian Historical Romance is filled with history, adventure, romance, and faith. I have not read the other three books in the series, but after reading this page turning delight, I certainly will.

Author Gray has a beautiful style of writing. History was brought alive on the pages of her novel. I was instantly invested in the story. The characters are well rounded, relatable, and true to life. Their conversations flow easily and sound authentic. Gray has done her research well and it is evident in the details. This is a well planned, organized, and extremely well done novel.

To begin with the cover is mesmerizing. Elizabeth’s emotion is clearly captured on it and vividly on the inside pages. Set in Charles Town, South Carolina in the historic year 1776, the colonies and Britain are at war. It is a time of great unrest and uncertainty. Reading this book made me feel the conflict and trials that were happening. My emotions paralleled Elizabeth’s as I felt her pain and questions.

There are so many issues the author tackles in her novel that are timeless. We see family disputes, secrets, loyalty, hope, love, respect and disrespect, faith, and God woven throughout the pages beautifully. It tells of the many sacrifices to break free and establish this country. At times I teared up thinking how united they were and how divided we are now.

I definitely recommend this book. Since it is book four you would benefit from reading the other three before picking up this one. It is a captivating Christian historical romantic delight. It receives a 4 out of 5 stars from me. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit but these are my honest words.

About the Book

Book: Draw Me To Your Side

Author: Marguerite Martin Gray

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: February 25, 2020

Warships in the harbor explode with battle cries for freedom in the hearts of Charles Town’s Patriots.

Charles Town, South Carolina, 1776—With the British war ships threatening his family and livelihood, Louis Lestarjette commits to aid Francis Marion, Christopher Gadsden, Silas Deane and other fiery Patriots with secret correspondences in code and in French. Although not convinced that the colonies can succeed in separation from Britain, he abides by his word—available with funds, his time, and if necessary, even his life.

Louis’ potential volatile role leaves Elizabeth Lestarjette uncertain of the future. Add to that her impending confinement, the secret missions her friends embark on, and the ever-encroaching danger into her domestic world, and the cost of independence grows steeper with each passing day. How will her family survive the coming turbulence? How will she survive not being an active part of it? One thing is certain, she must draw to God’s side or lose heart altogether.

Draw Me to Your Side… a prayer whispered against the coming destruction.

Click here to get your copy.

About the Author

Marguerite Martin Gray enjoys history especially when combined with fiction. An avid traveler and reader, she teaches Spanish and French and has degrees in Spanish, French, and Journalism from Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas. She received her MA in English from Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, Texas. Presently, she lives in north Louisiana with her husband and rescue cats.

More from Marguerite

I have always loved history, probably because my father took me to every historical site he could find on our travels. As I listened to him tell the story of our ancestors to a group of tourists at our Antebellum home, I suddenly realized that he was weaving tales about my own blood line. Very soon after that I flew to Charleston, South Carolina and began my research. From that first of many trips, my Revolutionary Faith Series arrived.

Draw Me to Your Side is Book Four of the series. The titles play a very significant role in the series, each having a dual meaning. The human element is obvious. Although the series is more historical than romance, the titles offer a glimpse into a potential romance. The other element is spiritual. God is the one who weaves his love and hope into their lives.

If you love book titles as I do, as you read this series, see if you can determine the dual meanings of Hold Me Close, Surround Me, Bring Me Near, and now Draw Me to Your Side.

Happy Reading!

Blog Stops

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, March 25

Bigreadersite, March 25

Blessed & Bookish, March 26

Older & Smarter?, March 27

Life, Love, Writing, March 27

Texas Book-aholic, March 28

Betti Mace, March 29

Stephanie’s Life of Determination, March 29

Inklings and notions, March 30

KarenSueHadley, March 31

For Him and My Family, April 1

Emily Yager, April 1

For the Love of Literature, April 2

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 3

deb’s Book Review, April 3

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 4

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 5

Pause for Tales, April 5

She Lives to Read, April 6

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, April 7

Back Porch Reads, April 7

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Marguerite is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 amazon card and a copy of the eBook!!

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/f664/draw-me-to-your-side-celebration-tour-giveaway

In the Garden Celebrate Lit Tour

Posted on March 18, 2020March 17, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

In the Garden, an Illustrated Guide to Plants of the Bible is a lovely reference book. Beginning with the beautiful cover and continuing throughout the pages are full color illustrated pictures of the many plants from scripture. I was mesmerized with them.

Plants and herbs of all types mentioned in the Bible are explained in appearance and use. That was extremely interesting. I love gardening, especially herbs. Many times when reading scripture I have wondered how a certain plant looked or for what it was used. This book would have answered those questions. The authors offered some lessons on the plants. This book spoke to the gardener in me, and I was awed at God’s creations.

Divided into four parts, there are Trees and Shrubs, Edible Plants, Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, and Flowers. Each new listing begins with a scripture and the Latin, Hebrew, and Greek names of the plant. Also included is how it relates to Biblical and modern use.

This is a very well researched book. It was well organized and written so that it was easy to follow. I had no trouble understanding it and enjoyed the material. This is a reference book I will definitely keep on my shelf.

After the listing of trees, shrubs, bushes, and plants are growing tips as well as information about the Jewish calendar and growing seasons. That growing season is different than ours and corresponds with their feasts. That was new information for me.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It taught me so much. I would recommend this to any Bible scholar, gardener, or anyone interested in learning more about plants of all types. It received a 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit. These are my honest opinions.

About the Book

Book: In The Garden

Author: Whitaker House Editorial

Genre: Christian non-fiction, Biblical history, cultural, Biblical reference

Release Date: January 10, 2020

Consider not only the lilies of the field, but all the plants, trees, herbs, shrubs, and flowers that play a role in the biblical narrative through this illustrated guide. From the barley Ruth harvested to the hyssop David craved, from the frankincense the wise men brought to Jesus to the sycamore tree Zacchaeus climbed, the Bible is peppered with allusions to the plants that were a part of daily life in the ancient Near East and in New Testament Israel. With original illustrations, this beautiful gift book clarifies the biblical references to fifty plants and provides delightful new insights into the Word of God. Includes indexes to each plant and its corresponding Scripture references, a calendar of Jewish festivals and the growing seasons in Israel, and tips for growing your own biblically inspired garden.

Click here to get your copy!

More from Whitaker House

Rather than being a dictionary of the plants mentioned in the Bible, In the Garden, with its original illustrations and plant descriptions, is meant to spark the reader’s spiritual imagination. It is our hope that these pages about the plants of the Bible will prompt your imagination and inform your study of the precious Word of the living God

Blog Stops

She Lives To Read, March 11

Texas Book-aholic, March 12

For the Love of Literature, March 13

For Him and My Family, March 14

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 15

deb’s Book Review, March 16

Mary Hake, March 17

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, March 18

CarpeDiem, March 19

Inklings and notions, March 20

Robin’s Nest, March 21

Tell Tale Book Reviews, March 22

Mamma Loves Books, March 23

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 24

Giveaway

To celebrate their tour, Whitaker House is giving away the grand prize package of a $20 Starbucks gift card and finished copy of the book!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/f6fd/in-the-garden-celebration-tour-giveaway

One Little Lie Celebrate Lit Tour

Posted on March 15, 2020March 13, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

Award winning author, Colleen Coble has written another riveting, award worthy book with One Little Lie. This contemporary Christian novel is a murder, mystery, suspense that caught my attention on the very first page. I was invested in the story of Jane Hardy and turned page after page to read it.

Whenever I pick up a Colleen Coble book I am certain it is going to be a nail biting experience. I was not disappointed with One Little Lie. It was incredible. This suspense, mystery had me on the edge of my seat flipping pages. The story is brilliant and extremely realistic. Yes, it could and probably has happened. The depth of the characters and plot was phenomenal. Do not expect a light read but something to engage your mind with this one.

This is Book One in The Pelican Harbor Series. The Prologue was so captivating I sincerely hoped the entire store would continue from there. Obviously it was only a bit of history, but it whet my appetite for the main course.

This is the story of Sheriff Jane Hardy. She is a feisty petite law enforcement officer with a troublesome past. Reid Bechtol is a famous newsperson that has come to do a documentary on small town police departments. When dead bodies begin to show up he is there to offer his assistance to Jane.

The author has provided readers with twists, turns, and surprises to make this a book that is hard to put down. Inspirational messages are woven throughout this engaging story along with multiple life lessons.

I highly recommend this 5 star novel. It has discussion questions in the back so it will make a great reading group selection. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit but these are my honest opinions.

About the Book

Book: One Little Lie

Author: Colleen Coble

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Release Date: March 3, 2020

It started with one little lie. But Jane Hardy will do everything in her power to uncover the truth in this gripping new romantic suspense.

Jane Hardy is appointed interim sheriff in Pelican Harbor, Alabama, after her father retires, but there’s no time for an adjustment period. When her father is arrested for theft and then implicated in a recent murder, Jane quickly realizes she’s facing someone out to destroy the only family she has.

After escaping with her father from a cult fifteen years ago, Jane has searched relentlessly for her mother—who refused to leave—ever since. Could someone from that horrible past have found them?

Reid Bechtol is well-known for his documentaries, and his latest project involves covering Jane’s career. Jane has little interest in the attention, but the committee who appointed her loves the idea of the publicity.

Jane finds herself depending on Reid’s calm manner as he follows her around filming, and they begin working together to clear her father. But Reid has his own secrets from the past, and the gulf between them may be impossible to cross—especially once her father’s lie catches up with him.

Click here to get your copy.

About the Author

Best-selling author Colleen Coble’s novels have won or finaled in awards ranging from the Best Books of Indiana, the ACFW Carol Award, the Romance Writers of America RITA, the Holt Medallion, the Daphne du Maurier, National Readers’ Choice, and the Booksellers Best. She has over 2 million books in print and writes romantic mysteries because she loves to see justice prevail. Colleen is CEO of American Christian Fiction Writers. She lives with her husband Dave in Indiana. You can visit her website at http://colleencoble.com.

Blog Stops

Back Porch Reads, March 10

Life of Literature, March 10

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 10

Texas Book-aholic, March 10

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 11

The Avid Reader, March 11

Lighthouse Academy, March 11

By The Book, March 12

Older & Smarter?, March 12

Through the Fire Blogs, March 12

Remembrancy, March 12

Betti Mace, March 13

April Hayman, Author, March 13

Emily Yager, March 13

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, March 14

Bigreadersite, March 14

deb’s Book Review, March 14

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, March 15

Inklings and notions, March 15

CarpeDiem, March 15

Christian Bookaholic, March 15

Just the Write Escape, March 16

For Him and My Family, March 16

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 16

Robin’s Nest, March 17

All-of-a-kind Mom, March 17

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 17

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, March 17

Stories By Gina, March 18

Janicesbookreviews, March 18

Mary Hake, March 18

Empowermoms, March 18

For the Love of Literature, March 19

Blossoms and Blessings, March 19

Because I said so – and other adventures in Parenting, March 19

Hallie Reads, March 19

A Baker’s Perspective, March 20

Quiet Quilter, March 20

Simple Harvest Reads, March 20 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Splashes of Joy, March 21

Moments, March 21

amandainpa, March 21

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 21

Pause for Tales, March 22

Britt Reads Fiction, March 22

Spoken from the Heart, March 22

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, March 22

To Everything There is a Season, March 23

Life love writing, March 23

Daysong Reflections, March 23

Lights in a Dark World, March 23

An Amish Picnic Celebrate Lit Tour

Posted on March 13, 2020March 11, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

Amish authors Amy Clipson, Kelly Irvin, Kathleen Fuller, and Vannetta Chapman have written novellas for An Amish Picnic. This collection of four Christian Amish Romances is so sweet. Each novella is a stand-alone and does not build upon any of the others.

Baskets of Sunshine, written by award winning author Amy Clipson, is the opening story. It is fabulous and the perfect way to start this book. This is the story of Phoebe Kurtz, Amish daughter of Freeman. She assists her sister with her booth at the Amish Market and also helps at home. She is a sweet yet feisty pretty teenager. Kevin works for her father and is a couple of years older than Phoebe. This beautiful tale shows that age difference in a relationship does not always matter.

Candlelight Sweethearts by Author Kelly Irvin is a cute story. Esther Marie is a lovely Amish girl but has a stutter. She works at Jasper’s family store and really likes him. He notices her, too. Showing that a speech impediment impacts person’s life, this tale is filled with faith, encouragement, and hope.

Author Kathleen Fuller offers Reeling In Love. Nina Stoll realizes that she is in love with her best friend, Ira Yoder. They meet each week to go fishing. Things become complicated when his cousin comes to visit. Nina’s family coach her on what to do and the result is emotional and funny. It is a tale of friendship turning into love and miscommunication.

Closing the book is author Vannetta Chapman’s Picnics and Prospects. This is the tale of a Faith Troyer. She suffers from claustrophobia and panic attacks. David Lapp has a history with her. Now he builds tiny houses and cabinets. He wants to help Faith and make up for his past mistakes. This is a story if healing, trust, forgiveness and redemption.

Each story in this Amish collection is encouraging, inspirational, and inspiring. It gives a message of hope and healing. I really enjoyed it. Everyone will enjoy this sampling from four extremely talented authors. All four stories and the collective book receive a 5 star rating. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my own honest words.

About the Book

Book: An Amish Picnic

Author: Amy Clipston, Kelly Irvin, Kathleen Fuller, and Vannetta Chapman

Genre: Amish; Christian Romance

Release Date: March 3, 2020

From bestselling authors in the Amish genre come four sweet stories about picnics and romance.

Baskets of Sunshine by Amy Clipston

Kevin Weaver has lived with his brother’s family since his parents passed away when he was young, but he craves a home and family to call his own. Freeman Kurtz owns a successful brick mason business, and Kevin takes the job as Freeman’s apprentice to pursue his own financial freedom.

Phoebe Kurtz is helping her sister with her booth at the marketplace when she notices Kevin, her father’s employee. Their friendship grows, but Kevin is convinced that the difference in their ages makes a relationship between them impossible. Amidst summer outings, Kevin and Phoebe must decide if taking a chance on love is worth the risk.

Candlelight Sweethearts by Kelly Irvin

Esther Marie Shrock loves her job at Valley Grocery Store where she’s worked for four years. Despite a stutter that has plagued her since childhood, she thrives filling orders from a steady stream of customers. Still, at 25, she and her family wonder if romance is in her future.

Jasper Cotter isn’t good with people, but he’s found himself obligated to take over day-to-day operations of the family owned grocery store—a store he doesn’t have the first clue how to run. Thrown together, Esther Marie and Jasper don’t exactly see eye to eye. One night, the store loses power, and the candles aren’t the only things shooting off sparks. Esther Marie and Jasper are suddenly forced to discover common ground when it matters most, and they might be surprised with love along the way.

Reeling in Love by Kathleen Fuller

Nina Stoll and Ira Yoder are just friends. Just friends and fishing buddies. Every Saturday afternoon, they have a picnic at their favorite fishing hole and see who can out fish the other. Until Nina starts to wonder if there’s more.

Her plans to share her feelings go awry, and circumstances seem destined to keep Nina and Ira apart. With both Nina and Ira confused and hurting, it’s going to take courage, some help from the community matchmakers, and a little bit of divine intervention for Nina and Ira to realize they’re each other’s perfect catch.

Picnics and Prospects by Vannetta Chapman

Faith Troyer is claustrophobic, and David Lapp builds tiny houses. They went on a date years ago with disastrous results. Now that they’re in their late twenties, their families and friends are beginning to wonder if either will ever find that special someone. When a picnic outing is diverted by the discovery of a package of letters dating back to the 1970s, they take it upon themselves to find answers to a mystery that causes them to rethink their past and consider their future.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Amy Clipston is the award-winning and bestselling author of the Kauffman Amish Bakery, Hearts of amy-clipston Lancaster Grand Hotel, Amish Heirloom, Amish Homestead, and Amish Marketplace series. Her novels have hit multiple bestseller lists including CBD, CBA, and ECPA. Amy holds a degree in communication from Virginia Wesleyan University and works full-time for the City of Charlotte, NC. Amy lives in North Carolina with her husband, two sons, and four spoiled rotten cats. Visit her online at AmyClipston.com; Facebook: AmyClipstonBooks; Twitter: @AmyClipston; Instagram: @amy_clipston.

kelly-irvin Kelly Irvin is the bestselling author of the Every Amish Season and Amish of Bee County series. The Beekeeper’s Son received a starred review from Publishers Weekly, who called it a “beautifully woven masterpiece.” The two-time Carol Award finalist is a former newspaper reporter and retired public relations professional. Kelly lives in Texas with her husband, photographer Tim Irvin. They have two children, three grandchildren, and two cats. In her spare time, she likes to read books by her favorite authors. Visit her online at KellyIrvin.com; Instagram: kelly_irvin; Facebook: Kelly.Irvin.Author; Twitter: @Kelly_S_Irvin.

With over a million copies sold, Kathleen Fuller is the author of several bestselling novels, including the kathleen-fuller Hearts of Middlefield novels, the Middlefield Family novels, the Amish of Birch Creek series, and the Amish Letters series as well as a middle-grade Amish series, the Mysteries of Middlefield. Visit her online at KathleenFuller.com; Instagram: kf_booksandhooks; Facebook: WriterKathleenFuller; Twitter: @TheKatJam.

Vannetta Chapman writes inspirational fiction full of grace. She is the author of sixteen novels, including the Pebble Creek Amish series, The Shipshewana Amish Mystery series, and Anna’s Healing, a 2016 Christy Award finalist. Vannetta is a Carol award winner and has also received more than two dozen awards from Romance Writers of America chapter groups. She was a teacher for fifteen years and currently resides in the Texas hill country. Visit Vannetta online: VannettaChapman.com, Twitter: @VannettaChapman, Facebook: VannettaChapmanBooks.

Read an Excerpt

Read an excerpt here.

Blog Stops

The Power of Words, March 6

Batya’s Bits, March 6

The Avid Reader, March 6

Older & Smarter?, March 7

For Him and My Family, March 7

For the Love of Literature, March 8

Bigreadersite, March 8

Texas Book-aholic, March 9

deb’s Book Review, March 9

Quiet Quilter, March 10

Through the Fire Blogs, March 10

Adventures of a Travelers Wife, March 11

Girls in White Dresses, March 11

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, March 11

Inklings and notions, March 12

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 12

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, March 13

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, March 13

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 14

The Collaborative Press, March 14

Splashes of Joy, March 15

janicesbookreviews, March 15

She Lives To Read, March 16

Jeanette’s Thoughts, March 16

Chas Ray’s Book Nerd Corner, March 16

Blossoms and Blessings, March 17

Books, Life, and Chrst, March 17

Artistic Nobody, March 18 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Southern Gal Loves to Read, March 18

EmpowerMoms, March 18

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 19

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, March 19

His Unexpected Amish Twins Celebrate Lit Tour

Posted on March 11, 2020March 9, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

His Unexpected Amish Twins by author Rachel J Good is a delightful Amish Christian Romance. This is book one in the author’s Unexpected Blessings Series, and it has started the series off with a fantastic book one. I loved this sweet book that was filled with emotions.

This is the story of Hope Graber, a single Amish woman. She is driving home and happens upon an accident involving an Amish buggy. Twin seven year old children are hurt, but their parents are immediately killed. Hope comforts the children and even accompanies them to the hospital.

Micah Miller is their uncle and rushes in from out of town to care for them. His parents are elderly and not up to travel. By the time he arrives the twins have formed a bond with Hope.

It is a story of beauty from ashes. The beginning is sad and heartbreaking. I was immediately invested in the lives of the two little ones that had lost so much. The book became a page turner. I couldn’t put it down as I wanted to see what would happen next.

The author has a wonderful style of writing. There were twists, turns, and surprises as I kept reading. I learned things, road an emotional roller coaster, and cheered for the children. This was a beautiful book that captured me and refused to let me go until the end.

I highly recommend this sweet story. There are no group discussion questions in the back nor recipes. In my opinion, both of those would have added to the book. This can easily be read in one sitting if you put dinner in the crock pot that morning. I rate it 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my own, honest words.

About the Book

Book: His Unexpected Amish Twins

Author: Rachel J. Good

Genre: Amish Romance

Release Date: February 28, 2020

When Micah Miller’s brother and sister-in-law are killed in a buggy accident, he’s devastated, but he fulfills a promise to raise their seven-year-old twins, Abby and Isaac. While struggling to deal with the twins’ grief and Abby’s anger toward God, he discovers an Amish farm offering horse therapy for grief. And he’s thrilled to find the owner cares about and prays for the twins.

Hope Graber had to find a way to save the family farm after her daed’s unwise decisions. Even selling off many of the horses didn’t cover all the bills. After deciding to use the remaining horses for animal therapy, she brings on Logan Russell, an experienced trainer, to help her. Together they not only start paying off the debts, but they also make positive changes in children’s lives.

Hope loves helping each child, but she takes a special interest in the twins and determines to help them heal both emotionally and spiritually. As she gently guides Abby back to God and makes the little girl smile again, Hope also makes Micah’s life brighter. As he emerges from his depression, he longs to make them one happy family, but only God can overcome the many obstacles in their path.

Click here for your copy!

About the Author

USA Today bestselling author RACHEL J. GOOD writes life-changing, heart-tugging novels of faith, hope, and forgiveness. She grew up near Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, the setting for her Amish novels. Striving to be as authentic as possible, she spends time with her Amish friends, doing chores on their farm and attending family events.

Rachel is the author of several Amish series in print or forthcoming – the bestselling Love & Promises, Sisters & Friends, Unexpected Amish Blessings, Surprised by Love (2021), and two books in Hearts of Amish Country – as well as the Amish Quilts Coloring Books. In addition, she has stories in many anthologies, including Love’s Thankful Heart,Love’s Christmas Blessings,Plain Everyday Heroes, Love’s Truest Hope,and the forthcoming Amish Christmas Twins (Fall 2020) with Shelley Shepard Gray and Loree Lough.

More from Rachel

Phobias and Faith

“Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14: 27b KJV)

In every book I write, I like the hero and heroine to experience character growth. I think it’s important that they change and become different. So, in His Unexpected Amish Twins, Micah faces several life-changing events. First, his life is turned upside-down when he becomes the guardian of his niece and nephew, seven-year-old twins. Although he loves the children dearly, as a young, single man, he isn’t quite ready to handle his lively, rebellious niece and his silent, withdrawn nephew, especially not when he’s grieving himself.

But with the help of horse therapist, Hope Graber, Micah puts aside his own pain to concentrate on caring for the twins. But Micah is also hiding a deep-seated phobia.

As a child, he had a terrible experience, one that scarred him for life. One that still haunts him and terrorizes him. One that may destroy his future relationship with Hope.

Getting over fear is never easy, and Micah prays for strength. But it isn’t until he’s forced to make a choice – give in to his fear or save a life – does he push past that fear.

Like Micah does, we often go through life hiding our fears. We make excuses not to do something that frightens us. When a fear turns into a phobia, it can become paralyzing.

For me, public speaking was my greatest fear. I managed to avoid it until I was asked to do a simple two-minute introduction each month for the Christian Women’s Club. I didn’t have to answer right away. They asked me to pray about it, and let them know my answer in a few days.

If they’d asked for an answer right away, I would have made an excuse. I had four small children and an ill husband. But the truth was – I was scared. Not just scared, but petrified. Petrified about even standing in front of an audience.

When I discussed this opportunity with my father, he suggested God might be giving me a chance to get over my fear because He had something greater for me to do in the future. My first thought was that it had better not have anything to do with public speaking.

Dad encouraged me to take a speech class, so I signed up for one. Eight people attended this informal course in the teacher’s living room. The first night we had to give a two-sentence introduction of ourselves. We didn’t even have to stand up.

I went last. My turn came, and my mind went blank. I couldn’t even remember my name. With prompting, the teacher got me to stumble through my name and hometown.

Our assignment for the following week was to prepare a three-minute demonstration of one of our hobbies. We could use notes and props. I mumbled through the speech, rushed out the door to my car, and vomited in the street. Yes, I was that frightened by public speaking.

I told my father I planned to quit the class, but he encouraged me to continue. And several months later, I stood in front of the women’s club. My eyes blurred, and I couldn’t see the people in front of me. I hurried through my memorized two-minute introduction clutching my note cards in case I forgot the words. I had no idea what I said, but several people mentioned that they liked it. And I went on to do it every month for two years.

And my father was right. God did train me for a future job. Wouldn’t Dad be surprised to know that, as an author, I speak in front of audiences around the country? He died before my first book was published, but I suspect he’s up in heaven cheering me on. And I could never have done it without God’s help.

Micah and I both had to learn to trust God’s promise: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1: 9 NIV)