The Lost Art of Relationship Celebrate Lit Tour & Giveaway

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Welcome to my stop on Celebrate Lit’s Book Tour and Giveaway for “The Lost Art of Relationship” by author Dan Chrystal.   Please read all of the way until the end where you will find the link to enter the giveaway for an Amazon Echo 2nd Generation Smart Speaker.  Yes, really!  Are you ready to hear about this book?  I am eager to chat with you about it.

In his book, author Dan Chrystal tackles what family and friends of mine have been discussing for a few years now, “The Lost Art of Relationship.”  With the advances of technology our face to face communication skills seem to have dwindled.  That has changed our relationships or our thoughts on them.

This was a “head nodding book” for me.  My husband asked what I was reading because I was literally nodding my head in agreement.  It provides some information for everyone.  The author has written a scriptural based book on relationships no matter what type of relationship.  His book even gives readers a chance to look inward on what type of friend they are.

Chapters are divided into various sections of Foundations of Relationships, Obstacles of Relationships, and Building Blocks of Relationships.  Substantiating his views with personal experiences and Scriptures, the author has researched and planned his book well.  His writing style uses plain language that is easily understood.  However, I found that the book could have been just a bit better organized.

I loved the section discussing friendship during trials.  “We will all go through dark moments or even dark seasons. Those are the times when friends double down on the friendship—to be there for each other.”  Double down on friendship really made an impact on me.  Not just be there for your friend, but double down.  Wise words.

Going through a rough period is when one truly finds out who one’s friends are.  This is totally relatable to most everyone.  Me, included.  True friends will stay beside you and wait out the storm.  They will help you through it and not leave until the weather gets better.  Now I thought about my friends in the midst of storms.  How could I be a better friend to them?

This is a book everyone should read.  It will provide insight into relationships of all types.  Teens would benefit from it as it prompts what to look for in a potential relationship and what to beware of in friends.  I wish it had a few more suggestions or advice on the “how to” side of being a friend.  All in all, it is a really good book.

I rated it 4 out of 5 stars.  I would recommend it to everyone, especially to teenagers and young adults.  They seem to be moving farther away from relationship knowledge.  Anyone will pick up positive tidbits from this.  A copy was provided from Celebrate Lit but I was under no obligation to post a review.  These are my own honest words.

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About the Book:

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Title: The Lost Art of Relationship

Author: Dan Chrystal

Genre: Christian non-fiction, Christian living

Release date: October 15, 2018

Relationship is a journey of discovery—a lost art. In this generation, it has become challenging to deepen and grow personal relationships with each other. Our technology-flooded environment has left many with limited relational experience and a fear of face-to-face connection and meeting new people.

The church has done a decent job of helping people understand the need and importance of a relationship with God, but what about with each other? At the heart of every man, woman, and child is the need for connection—for relationships with people who love them for who they are.

In The Lost Art of Relationship, Dan Chrystal tackles the heart of relationship based on the time-honored instruction to “love your neighbor as you love yourself.” But what does that mean? How do we live out this odd instruction? Who is my neighbor, anyway? What makes relationships healthy, and what makes them fail? Through Dan’s personal stories and difficult life lessons, readers will come away encouraged, inspired, and motivated to love the people in their life more fully. If you desire deep and meaningful connections, now is the time to discover the lost art of relationship.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

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Dan Chrystal has over twenty-three years of ministry and relationship experience. He serves as a pastor for Bayside Church Granite Bay, under the dynamic leadership of founding pastor, Ray Johnston. Dan is a vibrant speaker and a dedicated life, career, and couple’s coach. He holds an MBA in executive leadership from Kaplan University (now Purdue Global University) and is currently studying law at Concord Law School. His extensive ministry background has taken him all over the country, from the east coast to the west, where he has served in varying capacities, including Lead Pastor, Administrative Pastor, Associate Pastor, Worship Leader, and Youth Pastor. An avid student of relationship, Dan is passionate about helping others to love their neighbors as themselves.

“Choose a good reputation over great riches.” (Proverbs 22:1)

Guest post from Dan

For two years, I experienced what many would call a “wilderness experience.” I truly felt forgotten. I had spent twenty years in various aspects of church work having met and coached hundreds of people, and I still felt like I didn’t truly understand why I was put on this earth. I have moved nine times in my adult life. Everywhere I’ve lived, I had to start over—at work, home, schools for kids, and especially in relationship with others.

The last move was different. This time I was no longer looking to connect simply for the sake of connecting. There was a purpose for connection that was brewing inside me. That purpose became the driving force of my life and remains that way today. In fact, it consumes my thought life, relationships, ministry, and every aspect of what I do, think, and say.

Connecting with others has been a part of my life wherever I have gone. This came from watching my mom over many years meet, talk to, and befriend hundreds of people. At her funeral, I had just about that many tell me “thank you” for allowing my mom to be a part of their lives—how she encouraged them and truly got to know them for who they are.

During my two-year “wilderness” period, there was a realization that over all the moves, restarts, connections, coffee appointments, coaching, lunches, and dinners with people, I was learning the essence of what I believe we are called, or actually commanded, to do by Jesus. Such a simple sentence, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” However, it is one of the most difficult things to live out every day. Let’s face it; relationships are messy. They can be downright frustrating at times, but they are a necessary part of life, and the second most important thing to God.

I am by no means an “expert” in relationship. I am and always will be a student of it. I have watched relationships thrive, survive, and some fall away. There are so many divisions that come between us, and during those two years of struggling with my purpose, it became clear—God has designed, purposed, and prepared me to help others discover what it means to love your neighbor as yourself. I am not perfect at this. As a matter of fact, I struggle—sometimes daily. That is what sparked the writing of this book. I have found there is an art to relationship. For most, it is a lost art, one that can be rediscovered. I would love it if you would join me in discovering The Lost Art of Relationship.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, January 19

Carpe Diem, January 19

Robin is Bookish, January 20

The Becca Files, January 20

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 21

All-of-a-kind Mom, January 22

Creating Romance, January 22

Real World Bible Study, January 23

Mary Hake, January 24

Captive Dreams Window, January 25

Bigreadersite, January 25

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 26

margaret kazmierczak, January 26

Bibliophile Reviews, January 27

Texas Book-aholic, January 28

Just the Write Escape, January 29

A Baker’s Perspective, January 30

Janices book reviews, January 31

Book World Reviews, February 1

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 1

Giveaway

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To celebrate his tour, Dan is giving away a grand prize of an Echo 2nd Generation Smart Speaker with Alexa!!

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/d8d6/the-lost-art-of-relationship-celebration-tour-giveaway

Secrets at Cedar Cabin by Author Colleen Coble

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Do you have certain authors you really enjoy?  Fellow Hoosier Colleen Coble is one of mine.  Whenever I pick up a book she has penned I know that I am in for a treat.  Today’s subject is another excellent example of just that.

“Secrets at Cedar Cabin” is a page turning, intriguing tale that had me doing nothing except reading it.  It took very few pages to get captured within its tight grasp.  This mesmerizing tale is a contemporary Christian mystery packed with action, adventure, and romance.  It is 352 pages of emotions that jumped off of the page and right into me.

Author Coble has a smooth style of writing.  It is obvious she is a seasoned professional.  She is one of the best Christian mystery and romance authors I have found.  Her prose weaves a tale that will have readers entertained, guessing, and on the edge of their chairs.

The characters are superb.  They are well written, well described, and relatable.  It is easy to imagine them in real life.  Bailey could have been my buddy.  I wanted to help her and many times found myself giving her advice.  She was great.

The amount of details is enough to picture the scenarios but not too much to become bored.  Dialog is plentiful and realistic.  It doesn’t sound stiff.  The mention of God and faith is sprinkled throughout the novel.  The romance is so good.  It has a great love story.

This book is for mature readers because of its subject matter of human trafficking, kidnapping, abuse, murder, and death.   It is certainly not a light piece of fluff.  The author tackles real life, gritty issues that need to be addressed.   After the story look for a note from the author, acknowledgments, eight discussion questions, author’s biography, and advertisements.  I love it when the author includes discussion questions.

I highly recommend this novel to mature readers.  It would be a superb choice for a reading group.  The author included discussion questions, don’t forget.  If you are a fan of contemporary, romantic mystery you won’t want to miss this one.  Even though it is Book 3, it can be read as a stand alone.  I rated it five out of five stars.

A copy was provided from the publisher but I was under no obligation to post a review.  These are my own, honest words.

About “Secrets at Cedar Cabin”

Book Description:

From USA TODAY bestselling author Colleen Coble comes the third book in her beloved Lavender Tides series.
Her mother lied about her identity and her husband wasn’t who she thought he was—can Bailey even trust herself anymore?
Running for her life in the wake of her mother’s murder, Bailey Fleming escapes to the only place she can think of—a remote, dilapidated cabin in Lavender Tides. Intending to finally get to the truth behind the lies of her past, Bailey only finds more questions when bodies are discovered near her cabin hideout along with traces of a dangerous human trafficking ring. In an unlikely partnership with FBI agent Lance Phoenix, Bailey races to understand the mystery surrounding her life and circumstances before the murderer tracks her down.
Meanwhile, Lance is determined to rescue his sister, Ava, who was abducted after running away from home as a teenager. An unexpected lead brings him to the remote cabin, and he wonders if Bailey—with her suspicious past and strange connections to his sister’s case—is really who she claims to be and if she can somehow lead him to Ava.
Filled with Colleen Coble’s custom blend of suspense and romance, Secrets at Cedar Cabin takes us back to the evocative landscape of Washington’s coast where nothing is quite as it seems.
“Secrets at Cedar Cabin is filled with twists and turns that will keep readers turning the pages as they plunge into the horrific world of sex trafficking where they come face to face with evil. Colleen Coble delivers a fast- paced story with a strong, lovable ensemble cast and a sweet heaping helping of romance.” —Kelly Irvin, bestselling author of Tell Her No Lies
“Once again Colleen Coble has delivered a page-turning, can’t-put-down suspense thriller with Secrets at Cedar Cabin! I vowed I’d read it slowly over several nights before going to bed. The story wouldn’t wait—I HAD to finish it!” —Carrie Stuart Parks, award-winning, bestselling author of Portrait of Vengeance and Formula of Deception

About the Author:

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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.
Visit her website at http://colleencoble.com.

Flights of Fancy Celebrate Lit Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Welcome to the Celebrate Lit Flights of Fancy Book Tour and Giveaway.  I am glad you joined us.  You are in for a treat as today I have not just a book review, but also a Q and A section with author Jen Turano, and a giveaway.  Be sure to read all the way to the end for instructions.  Let’s begin with my review of this stellar book. It is Book One in the author’s new American Heiress Series.

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To begin with I love the inspiration for this story.  A real life what if!  So many times I have wondered about how some situations might have turned out differently.  Author took one with her creativity turned it into a wonderful Christian novel.  This historical romance is filled with everything readers enjoy.  I found romance, humor, animals, inspiration, action, adventure, and children along with a nice Christian message.

Author Turano has an enchanting style of writing.  She is a witty and extremely talented storyteller.  Her characters are well described and easily relatable.  The main and even secondary ones were well rounded.  Some were charming and lovable and others downright villains.  Reading this book transported me back to 1885 and dropped me onto a farm.  Within the first chapter I became invested in the book and did not want to stop reading.  I was hooked.  Poor Isadora being pursued by a repulsive older man.  Yes, I could feel her disgust and outrage!  Her emotions transferred to me.

The conversations between characters were plentiful and always a favorite part of any book for me.  Dialogue flowed smoothly without sounding forced.  The descriptions were historically accurate and I even learned a thing or two.  The farm setting was adorable.  This book had me smiling from ear to ear.

This 385 page paperback was extremely well written, well researched, and well planned. Parts of the storyline took me by surprise.  I love twists and turns in fiction.  It keeps me from being bored.  Flights of Fancy also had many moments that made me giggle.  The humor in this is literally laugh out loud great.  Yes, I was well entertained and also inspired.  The lessons of God’s Grace and plans for us, the importance of praying, and of becoming a better person were woven perfectly throughout the story.

Definitely this gets a recommendation from me.  Anyone would enjoy reading this sweet book.  Historical fans, romance fans, inspirational fiction fans all would be captivated.  I certainly was.  This would be another good Book Club read. There is so much to discuss over coffee or tea with friends.  It earned 5 out of 5 stars from me.

A reader copy was provided but I was under no obligation to write a review.  All thoughts are my own, honest ones.

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My Rating: 5-Stars-300x57

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Title: Flights of Fancy

Author: Jen Turano

Genre: Christian Historical Romance, Gilded Age

Release date: January 1, 2019

Publisher: Bethany House

Miss Isadora Delafield may be an heiress, but her life is far from carefree. When her mother begins pressuring her to marry an elderly and uncouth duke, she escapes from the high society world she’s always known and finds herself to be an unlikely candidate for a housekeeper position in rural Pennsylvania.

Mr. Ian MacKenzie is known for his savvy business sense and has built his reputation and fortune completely on his own merits. But when his adopted parents are in need of a new housekeeper and Isadora is thrown into his path, he’s unexpectedly charmed by her unconventional manner.

Neither Isadora nor Ian expected to find the other so intriguing, but when mysterious incidents on the farm and the truth of Isadora’s secret threaten those they love, they’ll have to set aside everything they thought they wanted for a chance at happy-ever-after.

About the author:

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One of the Funniest Voices in Inspirational Romance by Booklist, Jen Turano is a USA Today Best-Selling Author, known for penning quirky historical romances set in the Gilded Age. Her books have earned Publisher Weekly and Booklist starred reviews, top picks from Romantic Times, and praise from Library Journal. She’s been a finalist twice for the RT Reviewers’ Choice Awards and had two of her books listed in the top 100 romances of the past decade from Booklist. When she’s not writing, she spends her time outside of Denver, CO.

Q & A With Jen Turano

“Flights of Fancy” is the first book in the American Heiress Series. What inspired you to write this series?

The inspiration for this entire series started off with a What If? All of my proposals for new series start off that way, and this time it was – What if Consuelo Vanderbilt had balked when her mother insisted she marry the Duke of Marlborough – and then that led to – What if she’d run away until her mother came to her senses? Just like that, an entire series was born – a bit of a different take on American heiresses because in all three books, my heiresses might decide to go a tad…rogue. We start off with Miss Isadora Delafield – who does run off to avoid marriage to a duke, then we get to meet Miss Poppy Garrison, who is an unexpected heiress but who can’t quite seem to get a handle on the expected social decorum of the day, and then the final book revolves around Miss Beatrix Waterbury – who gets banished to Chicago after she annoys her mother one too many times, and once there, well, gets up to a bit of mischief.

How do you come up with the names of your characters?

I find most of my names as I research the New York Four-Hundred, although I normally take a first name here, a last name there so I’m not stepping on any toes by writing about an actual historical figure – except for some of the main figures in New York society back then, such as Mr. Ward McAllister – who was the social arbiter of the day, or Mrs. William Astor, who was the queen of that society. What I don’t do is simply make up names, no matter how outrageous they may appear. And, no matter how I may love a certain name, if the character decides it doesn’t suit them, that’s it, it’s out and I’m back to the drawing board.

How do you picture your character? Do you use Pinterest, magazines, movies?

Odd as this may seem, I don’t use pictures for my characters. They start off in my mind as a blurry figure, and then, they develop from there – I like to keep my descriptions of them somewhat vague on the pages so that the reader can imagine them exactly the way they’d like them to be.

What are some of your favorite resources for historical research?

I’ve been building up a research library over the past few years and now have over 200 books dedicated to the Gilded Age. My favorites are – “A Season of Splendor” by Greg King, “Society as I Have Found It” by Ward McAllister, “The Gilded Age in New York – 1870-1910” by Esther Crain, and “ ‘King Lehr’ and the Gilded Age” by Elizabeth Drexel Lehr.

The setting for “Flights of Fancy” is a bit of a departure for you since it’s set in and outside of Pittsburgh. Any reason for that?

My mom was born in Pittsburgh, and unfortunately, her father, a prominent attorney back in the day, died when she was only four. I thought it would be cool to set a story in Pittsburgh, which would then allow me to really dive into some research. And get this – while I was doing that research, I found this obscure journal called “Memoirs of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. In that journal was a bit about my great-grandfather, Fred, his wife, Susie, my grandfather, and his brother and sister, but I’d never heard about this brother, who apparently died quite young. One of the most fabulous research tidbits I’ve uncovered to date.

What are you working on now?

I’ve just recently turned in the content edits for the second book in this series, “Diamond in the Rough,” and I’ve also turned in a novella about the Harvey Girls that will be coming out in a novella collection in Fall, 2019. With those out of the way, I’m now starting the third and final book in the American Heiress series, Miss Beatrix Waterbury’s story, but I’m having a bit of a struggle with the hero at the moment – he was supposed to be Edward, but he doesn’t want to be an Edward – I think he wants to be Norman – but, time will tell on that one – don’t hold me to the name – it’ll depend on if he changes his mind or not – pesky characters.

You seem to enjoy adding animals in many of your stories. Will we find any animals in “Flights of Fancy?”

Since Miss Isadora Delafield ends up on a farm, I do believe you will find a few animals, such as an adorable cow by the name of Buttercup, a few goats that seem to have a great liking for laundry, and…there might be some chickens.

Thanks for stopping by today, everyone! Always enjoy visiting with all of you – in fact, that’s the best part of my job!

All the best,

~ Jen ~

Blog Stops

The Avid Reader, January 10

Among the Reads, January 10

Through the Fire, January 10

To Everything A Season, January 10

Reflections From My Bookshelves, January 11

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, January 11

Blogging With Carol, January 11

Southern Gal loves to Read, January 11

Back Porch Reads, January 12

KarenSueHadley, January 12

Godly Book Reviews, January 12

Daysong Refections, January 12

Livin Lit, January 13

The Christian Fiction Girl, January 13

The Becca Files, January 13

Texas Book-aholic, January 13

Rebekah’s Quill, January 14

Blossoms and Blessings, January 14

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, January 14

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 14

All-of-a-kind Mom, January 15

Just the Write Escape, January 15

Stories By Gina, January 15

God’s Little Bookworm, January 16

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, January 16

Splashes of Joy, January 16

Janices book reviews, January 16

Happily Managing A Household of Boys, January 17

Mary Hake, January 17

Maureen’s Musings, January 17

Bibliophile Reviews, January 17

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 18

Baker Kella, January 18

Simple Harvest Reads, January 18 (Guest post from Mindy Houng)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 19

Captive Dreams Window, January 19

Robin is Bookish, January 19

Carpe Diem, January 19

Have A Wonderful Day, January 20

Life with the Tribe, January 20

Inklings and Notions, January 20

Rachel’s Back Talk, January 21

Inspiration Clothesline, January 21

amandainpa, January 21

A Baker’s Perspective, January 21

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 22

Pause for Tales, January 22

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

Raining Butterfly Kisses, January 23

Live Love Read, January 23

A Rup Life, January 23

Bigreadersite, January 23

Giveaway!!

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To celebrate her tour, Jen is giving away a grand prize of a trunk filled with all of Jen’s full-length novels released to date!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

Giveaway

 

Unsolicited Advice

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Since my husband has retired we spend almost all of our time together.  Good thing we still love each other very much!  Honestly, it is what I have been anticipating for many years, our time.

He never was one to do anything in the kitchen except lick the spoons or steal some cookie door off of the sheet right before I popped it into the oven.  It made me ponder how my friends had gotten so lucky to have husbands that cooked.  Not mine.  He is a self proclaimed “eater”.  Without eaters the world would not need cooks is his logic. (lol)

Last week I was preparing dinner.  A simple beef roast with vegetables in my Rockcrok, a slow cooker.  All of a sudden I had a supervisor.  “Those potatoes need to be cut in quarters instead of halves.” my husband gingerly stated.  Having gotten away with that a minute later he stopped me and said “Whoa, you have enough carrots in there.”  Now I was getting a bit irritated.  The final straw was when he asked “Do you always use that many herbs and keep the celery leaves on?  Maybe that’s too much.”

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I don’t tell him how to run things in the yard or take care of the vehicles, because I have no experience.  He knows so much more than I do in those areas.  Just like I know so much more about cooking than he does.

As soon as that comparison came to my mind, so did something else.  How many times have I done the same thing with God?  Ouch!  Have I really tried to give advice or tell the Creator of the Universe what to do?  Well, yes, I guess I have.

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There have been times I have taken things to Him in prayer, and instead of asking that His will be done or for His help, I have listed what needed to be done.  Have you ever done that?  I would pray asking Him to do specific things so that the end result would be what I thought I needed.  How ridiculous is that?  The child giving instructions to the all knowing Father? Unsolicited advice being given to the One that directs us?

Scripture tells us in Philippians 4:6-7:  “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Abba doesn’t need a work order from me.  His way is perfect.  He already knows what needs done and what will happen.  All I need to do is lift my request to Him.  God knows exactly what needs to be done.  He is not waiting for my suggestions on how to solve a crisis.

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My prayers now take a different tone.   I know God knows and does what is best.  When I pray I take my concerns to Him, thank Him for being bigger than any issue I have, and leave it with Him.  Believe me, it isn’t always easy.  Sure I would love to include my suggestions but that would be silly.  Jehovah is our powerful God.  He isn’t our God that needs help.

Think about this the next time you pray for something.  Don’t make the same mistake I did.  Ask Him for help not if He needs any.

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Atoning for Ashes by Author Kaitlin Covel

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Don’t you love finding a new author that has penned a book that is so captivating it grabs your attention within the first few pages?  Me, too!  Even better, how about if that novel pulls you so deeply inside that you just have to finish it in one sitting?  Now you know it is a fantastic book, a page turner.  That’s right.  That’s what we are discussing today.   Let the hubby fend for himself and the dishes pile up, I am reading author Kaitlin Covel’s “Atoning for Ashes” Christian historical romance and cannot be bothered.60889CEE-D8F5-41D3-9181-9A24CAF92CBF

Author Covel is a delightful find for me.  She is an exquisitely talented wordsmith that weaves a mesmerizing tale.  Her characters are well rounded, flaws and all, and relatable.  We became fast friends.  Emotions were transferred from her characters to me through the author’s extraordinary writing ability.  At times I was a nervous wreck and others giving advice to fictional characters or rejoicing with them.

Everything in her book was well researched, well organized, and extremely well written.  I loved how she surprised me sometimes with various twists and turns.  The author’s style of writing is nothing short of poetic.  Even the conversations flowed smoothly.  Covel writes English Regency romance as if she has experienced it first hand and passes the experience along to readers.  This is a book to get lost in, but then some dark things happen.  It is grabbed my attention early and held it all the way through until the end.

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Even though it is a God glorifying book, it tackles some adult issues.  Expect fornication, attempted rape, alcoholism, pregnancy outside of marriage, murder, abuse, and struggles of self worth among the more difficult subjects in Atoning for Ashes.  On the other side, look for redemption, forgiveness, grace, restoration, hope, love, trust, and family to shine brightly.

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There are too many favorite quotes to list.  I adore Christian books that do not shy away from discussing God and His mercy.  It is especially refreshing reading about grace and redemption.  If it is a Christian novel, please don’t make me hunt for the lesson and inspiration.  This one did not make me search.

Now for something that did not sit well with me.  First let me say that I am a grandmother so age may play into this, but I did not like the use of the word hell.  If you are talking about the place where Satan inhabits, then it is fine, but if you are frustrated, don’t use it in a Christian novel.  This seemed out of place in Christian fiction to me.  Just my opinion.  It might not bother you.

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I would highly recommend this jewel of a Christian romance fiction that has mystery, intrigue, inspiration, and action.  Because of the adult content I would say an older teen (18) or young adult should be the youngest age to read this.  A mature women’s group would certainly find a lot to discuss using this.  Even with the one thing that I did not like, it earned a 5 out of 5 stars from me.   I expect we will be hearing a lot about author Kaitlin Covel in the months to come.  Watch for her.  Mark your calendars for when this sure to be best seller comes out next month.  You will be glad to have read the debut from this budding new author.  I absolutely was.

i received an advanced reader copy but was under no obligation to write a review.  All opinions are my own, honest ones.

My Rating: 5-Stars-300x57

 

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About the Book:

Josie Chadwick dreams of marrying for love in Cornwall, England, but with her father’s debt threatening to destroy all she holds dear, her romantic options are dwindling. When her elder sister Delia is disowned, Josie finds herself heiress of Chadwick Park, torn between dreams and duty. After sacrificing her heart to atone for Delia’s sin, Josie clings to the hope she will learn to love a distant husband, whom she fears is incapable of requiting her affection.

Charles Radcliffe’s heart has been scarred and hardened by rejection. He fears hurting his new bride, but his fears of betrayal and rejection are stronger, making it impossible for him to trust her love―let alone the love of her God.

As Josie and Charles face their new life together, ominous events warn of dark family secrets that could shatter them both. More than a loveless marriage is at stake if they cannot stand as one. Will they learn to trust God and each other before it’s too late?

Preorder your copy today! Releasing on February 14th.

Purchase Link:https://www.amazon.com/Atoning-Ashes-Novel-Kaitlin-Covel/dp/1632694840/

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Kaitlin Covel has a thirst for adventure much like the heroines of her stories and resides in her beloved state of Maine. She is an old-fashioned romantic, and if she could time travel to any historical period, it would be the Regency Era. Kaitlin is a certified Nutritional Therapist Technician, but writing is her passion. Her debut novel, Atoning for Ashes, releases on February 14th, 2019 from Deep River Books.

Visit her official website at http://www.kaitlincovel.com.

Happy Birthday Mom, Our Own Proverbs 31 Woman

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Today is the birthday of a very special lady.  It is my sweet, dear Mother’s birthday.

She has been one of the best gifts God has ever given to me.  I have loved her every day of my life since it began.  Yes, it was love at first sight for us.  Hearing her voice is like a soothing balm to my soul.  In fact, I would venture to guess that melodious voice calmed me while she was carrying me safely inside of her over sixty years ago.

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Everyday we talk.  We begin our days with a check-in call.  Throughout the day I can’t count the number of calls.  I depend on her for so many thing.  “Mom, how do I…..” or  “what was the name of that ….” or even “do you remember what recipe Mammaw used for…” are some of the normal lead-ins.  Let’s not forget the ever popular “Mom, I need to know what you would do….”  To be honest, sometimes I just want to hear her voice.  Before we go to bed each evening, we call to say “good night, I love you” and sincerely mean it.

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This beloved, exceptional woman gives sage advice to whomever asks.  It is never unsolicitated.  Mom waits until she is sought.  Her counsel is biblically based and comes from experience.

She is very loving.  Whether via gifts, words, hugs, or kisses, Mom makes certain we know that she loves us all, and equally.  There are no favorites with her.af019dec-b67e-4e33-a91a-e2f2a758f2a2 Through her guidance I was lead to the Lord at an early age and taught to follow and obey Him.  I love that we still talk about Him – what He does for our family, how He answers our prayers, what we need to take before Him, and how we should serve Him by serving others.  A big smile overtakes my face as I remember her holding my hand for bedtime prayers.  We would go through the family asking our Heavenly Father to bless each one as we named them.

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My Mother provides the best living example for a Proverbs 31 woman.  She worked full time, kept a spotless house that was a loving home, and made delicious meals. If a friend needed help or school needed a sponsor, she volunteered.  Besides all of that, she was and still is a member of a community organization, has been on others, helps those in need, is an active member of our church, is a shrewd businesswoman, and is the best wife, Mother, Grammy, family member, and friend you will encounter.  Yes, maintains a sparkling clean home and is a fabulous cook still today.  I have never seen her drink any alcohol, smoke a cigarette, or heard a curse pass her sweet lips.  Absolutely, she is a true jewel and Proverbs 31 woman, not to mention a role model for many.

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Her life has touched a multitude.  People have told me stories of how she helped them in various ways.  When I was a young girl I remember going with her to take meals to  shut-ins.  We did not just drop the food off.  We visited, tidied up, and read the Bible.

I know how to take care of my husband and children because of her.  A lot of the fun things we did were activities she did with us.  Those trickled down and I see my children doing them with their children now.  She makes everything fun, exciting and memorable.   Our family still quotes things she said years ago and mimics things she has done.  She is the Queen of our family and glue that keeps us together.

By example she showed me how sisters love each other, how mothers treat their children, and how to maintain lifelong friendships as she has two that are older than I am.  Those ladies are like family now.  Family is important to Mom, second only to God.

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Happy Birthday to you, Mama.  I wish you many more happy ones.  Thank you for everything you have given me, given up for me, taught me, and for being the beautiful Christian lady you are.  You are adored and cherished.  I am blessed beyond measure that I was given the honor of being your daughter.  There are not enough worlds to express my love and gratitude to you.

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Sometimes I wonder where or what I would be if you had not been chosen as my Mother, but that thought is quickly dismissed.  You were chosen, and I was abundantly blessed.  You are absolutely perfect for me and our entire family, but God already knew that.  Lord, we are so thankful for her and the choice You made when you gave us our own Proverbs 31 woman.

Premeditated Serendipity Book Review & Giveaway Celebrate Lit Tour

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

It has been a long time since I have read a fiction book on Prophecy.  What about you?  In author Chautona Havig’s upcoming release Premeditated Serendipity, I found a delightful contemporary Christian romantic fiction that dealt with just that.  Prophecy.  I was thrilled.  Then I started reading the book and was mesmerized.  It grabbed my attention and drew me in quickly.

Author Havig has such a pleasant style of writing that reading one of her books is easy.  I was immediately caught up in the story and invested in the character’s’ lives.  They were well defined and relatable.  I found myself thinking Kelsey is so much like this friend or Uncle Mel is a real doll.   Conversations between everyone was smooth and natural.  It did not sound stiff.
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The author has used this book for an opportunity to discuss some topics we all face.  Forgiveness, being a busy-body, redemption, being hurt at church, faith, hope, trust, and love.  It had humor, sweet moments, and some other places that made me want to yell at the characters.  My emotions ran all over the place with the characters.
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This is a captivating novel.  Once started I did not want to put it down. I loved everything about it.  The writing, the storyline, the inspiration and encouragement, that it was a God glorifying, and the lovely characters.  Would I recommend this?  You betcha, I would!  Any woman would thoroughly enjoy this story.  It would make a great small group book, too.  You will want to discuss it with someone else.  Doesn’t that usually happen when you read a great book?  It does with me.  I rated it a 5 out of 5 stars.
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I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit but was under no obligation to review it.  These are my own, honest opinions and thoughts.
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About the Book

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Title: Premeditated Serendipity

Author: Chautona Havig

Genre: Christian romance

Release date: November 16, 2017

…make it your ambition to lead a quiet life and attend to your own business and work with your hands, just as we commanded you. ~ I Thessalonians 4:11

That’s all Reid wanted to do–just serve the Lord for a year before concerning himself with anything else. Yeah, the idea came from an odd “prophesy” one of the watchmen of Fairbury’s new Prayer Room spoke over him. Sure, he didn’t know if such “prophecies” were even Biblical–arguments on that score abounded. But since the words she spoke were pure Scripture, and since yielding to them couldn’t be wrong, he thought, “Why not?”

Was it always easy? No. People made judgments about him that weren’t accurate. Shy? Nope. Stuck up? Not hardly. Committed to a celibate life?

Good news, girls–just for the year.

But when the local florist hears Reid’s story and sees a few things that give him a glimpse into the man’s heart, he decides on a little premeditated serendipity to move things along, unaware of the serious havoc he’s about to wreak.

Premeditated Serendipity

Take a few Bible verses, stir in a little godly interference, give a pinch of meddling, and mix well. Bake in the oven of misunderstanding until true feelings rise and come out clean.

Part of the Out of the Blue Bouquet Collection

Click here to purchase your copy of the Out of the Blue Bouquet Collection

About the Author

39a3760d-495c-41cf-ba18-6812180f068c  Author of the Amazon bestselling Aggie and Past Forward series, Chautona Havig lives and writes in an oxymoron where she uses story to connect readers with the Master Storyteller.

Guest Post from Chautona

What Important Life Lesson Do Simple Daisies Teach Us?

It all began with a barrel of daisies. There I was, writing a simple scene with a character walking up the street of my fictional town of Fairbury, and this man appeared in front of a florist’s shop—The Pettler. He handed my character a daisy, and I soon learned that he did this for everyone—handed out a free daisy to anyone who passed.

6Since then, in almost any book that takes place in Fairbury, someone receives one of those daisies. So, when Amanda Tru told me about a collection featuring novellas about floral fiascoes, I knew it was time for Wayne Farrell of The Pettler to make a solid showing in a book.

I just wasn’t ready for it to be his story.

However, as I wrote about Reid and Kelsey, Wayne kept creeping in more and more. A backstory emerged. His faith bloomed. Yes, his heart has a few weeds that need to be pulled, but those weeds provided the conflict for this story.

And one thing that happened is he planted a seed in my own heart. I sat there thinking about what those daisies meant to him when the old “He loves me, he loves me not” ditty came to mind. I imagined that a florist would likely love or hate that. I mean, you don’t want people to have negative connotations with flowers, but on the other hand, people buying daisies to pluck… that’s good business.

Thinking of it in terms of Jesus changed everything, though. Suddenly, I had his story. Because, like Wayne shares with Reid in Premeditated Serendipity. When you pluck a daisy thinking of the Lord, there is no not. It’s just, “He loves me. He loves me. He loves me.” You can cross out every not. (I even have a short video on this.)

Because, as John 3:16 reminds us, “For God so love the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes on Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

He loves us. Period.

Note: for Wayne’s full story, check out Tangoed in Tinsel, part of the Under the Christmas Star set—the CrossRoads Collection 3.

Blog Stops

Real World Bible Study, January 5

Cultivating Us, January 6

Back Porch Reads, January 7

Aryn, the Libraryan, January 8

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 9

Texas Book-aholic, January 10

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 11

Bibliophile Reviews, January 12

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 13

Mary Hake, January 13

Janices book reviews, January 14

Carpe Diem, January 15

A Baker’s Perspective, January 16

Bigreadersite, January 17

Multifarious, January 18

Giveaway

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To celebrate her tour, Chautona is giving away a grand prize of a bouquet sent to anyone the winner wants in the U.S.!!

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/d8a5/premeditated-serendipity-celebration-tour-giveaway

Between Two Shores by author Jocelyn Green

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

In her book Between Two Shores, author Jocelyn Green has written a hauntingly beautiful novel.  This 400 page historical romantic fiction is in 1759 but goes back a few years to when the main character, Catherine Stands-Alone, is just ten years old.  Using the backdrop of the French and Indian Seven Years War, author Green spins a captivating tale of faith, hope, finding one’s place, loyalty, bravery, courage, and love.

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Catherine is part Mohawk and part Canadian- French.  Her character is well defined and relatable. At times I hurt with her as her emotions seeped from the pages into me.  Other times I would get frustrated with her obstinance.  Yes, I wanted to give her some advice.   She just wanted to love and be loved.  Don’t we all?
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The other characters were equally well created.  They were well rounded with lovable and dislikable traits.  The scenery was vividly described which took me right there.  I could hear the animals and see the water.  The trading post was easy to imagine.
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Author Green has a way with words.  I was immediately interested in the story, and this is before Chapter 1.  By the time I finished the Prologue and Chapter 1, I has deeply invested in the lives of the characters.  The story was well researched and provided historic information on a subject which was not familiar.  I love a novel that teaches me something.  It also contains some twists and turns along the way.
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At the end of the book are discussion questions.  I love, love, love it when an author includes those whether for personal growth or group study.  There are also author notes explaining which events and people are factual.  Again, I love this.
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Would I recommend this book?  You betcha!  Any history lover will devour this jewel in one sitting.  It is an interesting, adventurous, historical, romance that has inspiration and encouragement.  This would make a great small group book especially with the discussion guide.  The book stayed with me long after I finished the last page.  It would have been nice to have a group of friends to chat with about this brilliant book.   It receives a 5 out of 5 stars from me.  I received a copy of this book from the author and NetGalley. All opinions are my own, honest ones.

About the Author:

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Jocelyn Green is a former journalist who puts her investigative skills to work in writing both nonfiction and historical fiction to inspire faith and courage.

The honors her books have received include the Christy Award in historical fiction, and gold medals from the Military Writers Society of America and the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association.

Complex and nuanced characters, rich historical detail and twisting plots make her novels immersive experiences. Her fiction has been praised by Historical Novel Society, Romantic Times, Library Journal, historians specializing in her novels’ time periods, as well as popular and acclaimed authors Laura Frantz, Lori Benton, Jody Hedlund, Sarah Sundin, Joanne Bischof, Julie Lessman, and more.

Jocelyn loves Broadway musicals, the color red, strawberry-rhubarb pie, Mexican food, and well-done documentaries. She lives in Iowa with her husband, two children, and two cats she should have named Catticus Finch and Purrman Meowville.

The Devoted Life, a Creative Journal by Marjorie Jackson

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess
Nutrition is about what is in something that we put in our body.  Like green beans or cookies.  Everyone is aware of food nutrition, but are we aware of our spiritual needs?  What are we feeding our soul?  What do we give our young women to put into their hearts, minds, and spirits?  I have just the thing.
The Devoted Life, a Creative Journal by Marjorie Jackson is delightful.  It is marketed and labeled as being for teen girls, but any woman could use it.  There are 31 devotions so this is a month of inspiration and encouragement.
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The book itself is rather small and slender.  It would easily slip inside a purse or tote.  The cover is a sleek stylish imitation leather and doesn’t look like a young girl.  There is an attached pink ribbon bookmark to keep reader’s place marked.
At the beginning of each section is the title along with small illustrations to color.   The daily devotion consists of scripture followed by one-page commentary and three additional scriptures for in-depth study.  There is room to journal any thoughts from the lesson or prayers.
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This would make a wonderful small group study for older teens or young adult ladies.  Actually any ladies’ group would enjoy it.  Topics are relevant and timely.  Friendship, family, relationships, God, trust, and prayer are just a sampling of the subjects tackled. Lessons are short enough to get finished in a little amount of time but long enough to teach readers.  It has plenty of free “create your own” spaces.
The coloring and journaling devotional are becoming very popular.  After looking at some others, I can honestly say this is one of the better ones.  Don’t be misled when you thumb through it.  It will look pale and drab.  It is just a plain coloring journal.  Wait until your creative ideas take over and colors bloom on the pages.  It will be a masterpiece to treasure for years to come.
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I highly recommend this lovely, God glorifying Journal.  I have twin granddaughters and look forward to buying each of them a copy when they are a bit older.  In fact, I plan on doing it with them.  It would be a wonderful group project, gift, or something to buy yourself.  I give this a 5 out of 5 stars and hope there are more to come.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.  All thoughts and opinions are my own, honest ones.
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Thrive in Retirement by Eric Thurman

Posted on by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Thrive in Retirement, Simple Secrets for Being Happy for the Rest of Your Life, by author Eric Thurman took me a while to read.  I am more accustomed to Christian fiction with stories that take me away to another time and place.   This 240 page non-fiction book kept me right here but was packed full of great information for everyone.  I am very glad I continued reading it.

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The author has put together information to help anyone going into retirement.  A lot of the information is common knowledge, but a lot of it was also new to me.  The author’s writing style was a bit of a mixture.  He included charts, quizzes, and lists along with his thoughts and some personal experiences.  Some chapters felt like a textbook while others were less strict and felt like he was talking one on one.

I gleaned a lot from this book.  It was interesting to read the author’s insights and ideas on retirement and what one should do.  Not only is retirement discussed but what the author calls “the third season of life” which include retirement, aging, and death.  He has tips and suggestions as well as forms to help readers and their loved ones transition into this.  Everything he has written is to help readers be prepared.  It is easy to forget something important so author Thurman has placed all of the information needed in his book.  Now readers have a retirement guide at their fingertips!

I would recommend this book to anyone.  People that have retired or are preparing to retire, young adults with family retiring, people needing a retirement gift, and so many more would all benefit from this book.  It comes out February 26, 2019.  Get a copy and read it with a group so you can share your thoughts.   I rated it a 4 out of 5 stars.

I received a copy of this book from WaterbrookMultnomah but was not required to write a review.  These are my own, honest thoughts.

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About the book:

Never before in human history have so many people lived for decades beyond their working years. 10,000 Americans turn 65 each day, and their average life expectancy is another 20 years–and many will live longer. But will they just live or have a meaningful life? The truth is that many–if not most–people approaching the latter years do not have a plan, much less a strategy to thrive instead of just survive. Packed with information based on research as well as common-sense wisdom, here are some examples of what readers will discover:
* How retiring at the wrong time increases the likelihood of dying 89%.
* What can delay Alzheimer’s onset an average of 9 years.
* How everything that makes you happy comes in just 3 forms.
* Which partner is most likely to initiate divorce after decades of marriage and why.

About the Author:

After a career that took him to half of the countries in the world, Eric Thurman found retirement to be a much bigger adjustment than he expected. His freer schedule was great but trying to pretend life was little more than an endless vacation quickly grew stale. He set out to understand how to make the most of life if he had another 20 or 30 years still ahead. He drew on his early background as a journalist to uncover the latest research on aging and then he applied his leadership skills as a CEO to organize his discoveries into a practical plan. What he found that energized his personal life became the principles he outlines in his latest books and courses.

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Eric Thurman has a history of blazing trails. As International President of a large nonprofit organization, he created a program that now serves orphans and other hurting children in more than 30 countries. Previously, he was CEO of two leading microfinance organizations that enable families in dozens of developing countries to expand tiny businesses and work their way out of poverty. In addition to his writing and speaking on happiness in retirement, he continues to advise international nonprofits and major donors on how to be most effective in helping people thrive.