Brave: The Story of Ahinoam by Mesu Andrews // Review

My Review:

A compelling and intriguing look at David's life while on the run from Saul, and that of the first wife he took in Hebron. 

A compelling and intriguing look at a time in David's life not often focused on in fiction, I liked how the author imagined that time on the run from Saul, and the possible reasoning behind him taking multiple wives, as well as the cultural landscape. Ahinoam is strong and stubborn, raised by a father abandoned by his wife, she learned to wield the weapons of her father's trade. She is a young woman finding her path, she struggles with doubts and questions of worthiness in the face of her marriage to David, and his taking on another wife. The story is told from broth David and Ahinoam's point of views, has good interactions, and character development.

The author did a great job navigating the difficult subject of David's multiple marriages, and while it was a little odd in my contemporary frame of mind of a Christian marriage, it did happen and he did have multiple wives, and there were consequences later on. 

I liked seeing David as a young man fighting for his throne and becoming a revered leader among his men and his people. I also enjoyed seeing his deep friendship with Jonathan, and deep desire to please God.

Overall, an excellent read full of intensity, faith, suspense, as well as parts that challenged me. The author did an amazing job, pulling from the text to create a compelling portrayal of Ahinoam and David during that time. A compelling read from beginning to end!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Tapestry of Grace by Kim Vogel Sawyer // Review

My Review: 

A heartwarming, feel-good story about community, faith, and family. 

The ladies of Alexandertol, Kansas, decide to form a benevolence group, to help those in need in their communities. Widowed schoolteacher Augusta Dyck, sees the need of Konrad Rempel, an independent widower with two energetic twin boys. While Martina Krahn the group's founder, hopes to find meaning and a child to fill the hole in her unhappy home through the group's work. 

This heartwarming and faith filled story is told from the multiple perspectives of Konrad, Augusta, and Martina. Augusta has a big heart for others, and is raising a young daughter of her own, but is always looking for ways to lift others up. Everyone adores Konrad's boys, who are full of energy, but are eager to please. Konrad does the best  he can for his sons, and that is what drives him throughout. 

My heart went out to Martina, at first it is easy to dislike her, until you see what lies beyond her somewhat abrasive attitude, is actually a lot of heartbreak and hurt. 

Overall, a highly enjoyable story with likable characters, adorable children, plenty of heart, and a solid foundation of faith, set in a small prairie community. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

White Bird // Movie Review and Giveaway

Be Brave. Choose Kind. You forget many things in life. But you never forget kindness. WHITE BIRD is a deeply moving coming of-age story and testament to the courage it takes to extend kindness and love during the harshest of times.

 From the world of Wonder, which sparked a movement to "choose kind," comes the inspirational next chapter: WHITE BIRD. Struggling to fit in at his new school after being expelled for his treatment of Auggie Pullman, Julian (Bryce Gheisar) is visited by his grandmother (Helen Mirren) and is transformed by the compassionate and heroic story of her attempts to escape Nazi-occupied France during WWII. From the director of Finding Neverland, WHITE BIRD reminds us to be brave and choose kind. 

 Buy your tickets now to WHITE BIRD, in theaters October 4! 

https://tickets.whitebird.movie/

My Review: 

A compelling coming of age story that resonates with the whole family. 

Captivating, heartwarming, and heartbreaking all at the same time, this is is a well done and thought provoking film that is the inspirational sequel to Wonder the film based on the novel by R.J. Palacio, but stands well on it's own even if you have never read or seen Wonder. Julian is starting at a new school, and he wants to blend in and not stand out in one way or another when someone is being hurt, but his grandmother pays him a visit and tells him about growing up as a Jew in Nazi occupied France.

A beautifully told story, full of heart, with strong themes of hope, and choosing kindness by taking a stand against evil. I thought that this film did a great job of showing the horrors of what humans can inflict on each other, not shying away from the harsh realities faced by those living in France during the war, but also not overly explicit. I thought that the gravity of the events where tastefully depicted, and this film has a powerful message. There are thematic elements, and violence, I would recommend parents do their research to decide if their children are old enough to see this film, as young children should probably wait a few years, but the message is so timely and important. 

Sara Blum is amazed at the kindness of a classmate often scorned because of his disability, she comes to admire his bravery and that of his family to stand up to the status quo. I was very impressed with the solid message for all ages, that the only thing that can stand up to darkness is light, and that it takes bravery to choose kindness. A compelling film with masterful storytelling with a timeless and powerful message. You'll want to share this film with everyone you know!

  #WhiteBirdMIN #WhiteBirdMovie #BeBraveChooseKind

Many thanks to Kingdom Faith Marketing Services for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

Giveaway: $10 Amazon giftcard (Note: This is limited to US winners only).

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The Emmeline Series: Finding Strength by Kathy J. Perry // JustRead Tour and Giveaway

Welcome to the Blog Tour for the Emeline series by Kathy J. Perry, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Books

Title: A Journey
Series: Emeline #1
Author: Kathy J Perry
Publisher: Chickadee Words, LLC
Release Date: November 1, 2023
Genre: Christian Young Adult 19th Century American Historical Fiction

A promise made to her dying father; a struggle that tests her faith; a journey that pushes her resilience and resourcefulness to their limits 

Emeline, a thirteen-year-old Missouri orphan, must set off on a quest across frontier America to fulfil her father’s last to find her grandfather in Boston. 

Crossing this dangerous and unforgiving land alone, she must face challenges without losing her faith, rising to every test ahead if she’s to survive and find a home at the end of her adventure. 

Will Emeline’s journey bring her the family she longs for? 

Readers of Laura Ingalls Wilder and Louisa May Alcott will delight in this fast-paced adventure.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Kathy J Perry | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

Title: Finding Strength: During the Panic of 1893
Series: Emeline #2
Author: Kathy J Perry
Publisher: Chickadee Words, LLC
Release Date: March 1, 2024
Genre: Christian Young Adult Historical Fiction 

When the world around you is falling apart, you must find strength within yourself. 

Three years after her father’s death, Emeline has settled into life in Indianapolis. 

Then an urgent visit to her childhood farm in Missouri changes everything. Her manager dies, the economy is in recession, and the caretakers are moving back to Wisconsin. Emeline is suddenly responsible for the farm… and she’s out of her depth. 

With the help of her closest allies, Emeline sets out to turn the farm around until disaster strikes and she must start again. Emeline faces her biggest challenge finding the courage to have confidence in herself. 

Can Emeline’s faith and resourcefulness bring her the joy and security she’s worked so hard to find? 

This coming-of-age tale is a must-read for lovers of historical fiction.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Kathy J Perry | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

Review: 

Emeline again must rise to the occasion, stepping up to the tasks laid before her. 

Emeline has enjoyed the last few years working for the Witherspoons, until her life changes again with the coming of a letter bringing her back to the farm after the death of the manager. Emeline must again make a solo journey in this coming of age tale, she reconnects with old friends and takes up the mantle of running the dairy farm with the help of the former manager's son, Andrew. 

Emeline learns valuable lessons, growing in her faith, while taking on new challenges, making new friends, and connecting with old ones. An enjoyable historical fiction with strong characters, and solid themes of faith in this coming of age story great for teen girls, and also enjoyable for adults. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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About the Author

Of the many jobs she’s held in the past, including thirty-five years of designing and constructing stained glass windows part-time, teaching was one of the most enjoyable for Kathy J. Perry because investing in kids is so important. To this end, she continues to encourage good character with clean, moral stories kids and teens love to read. Good books make such an impact. Writing is hard work, but there’s nothing like a good story to run off with your imagination. When things are flowing, it’s like a vacation. Sometimes the best ideas come in the middle of the night. When not writing, you’ll find her painting with watercolor, doing school visits, writing a blog, interviewing other writers, designing websites, working as an administrative assistant part-time, and renovating houses. Is this retirement? Apparently so! She loves every minute of it with her husband of 43 years.

Connect with Kathy by visiting kathyjperry.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive signed print copies of A Journey and Finding Strength, companion journal, bookmarks, and a $25 Amazon gift card plus a code for free audiobooks for both titles!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 1, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 8, 2024. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Christmas at Sugar Plum Manor by Roseanna M. White // Review

My Review:

An enchanting Christmastime Edwardian romance, inspired by The Nutcracker, about the true light of Christmas. 

 Lady Mariah Lyons delights in bringing the joy of Christmas to those around her, making sweets, writing plays, and devising special surprises for the local children to enjoy. But this year is different with the visitation of a Danish nobleman, and a childhood friend, over the festive season. 

A captivating and heartwarming story of family, faith, and finding love at Christmas time. I loved Mariah's sense of joy, how she uses her gifts to create things for others to enjoy and share her wonder. This is such a fun feel-good read, with wonderful characters, and an engaging plot with ties to the classic Christmastime tale. I really liked Mariah's friendship with Cyril, as well as how she is so kind and thoughtful towards the staff, treating them like family. 

Overall, a well written read that I didn't want to end, with likable characters, and a compelling story, filled with a sense of wonder and faith. Great interaction between the characters, as well as a strong theme of the true meaning of Christmas. A highly entertaining, heartwarming read, that you will love to re-read year after year!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Amazon | Baker Book House | Barnes & Noble | Christian Book | Roseanna’s Shop
 

Roseanna M. White is a bestselling, Christy Award nominated author who has long claimed that words are the air she breathes. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two kids, editing, designing book covers, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of a slew of historical novels that span several continents and thousands of years. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to find their way into her books…to offset her real life, which is blessedly ordinary. You can learn more about her and her stories at www.roseannamwhite.com

 Facebook | Pinterest | Instagram | Twitter | Website

The Christmas Tree Farm by Melody Carlson // Review

Lucie's Review: 

A heartwarming story of family, faith, and new beginnings. 

Madison McDowell comes home after years of teaching in Mongolia to her family's Christmas tree farm, to find that it isn't how she left it. Fighting back against fire damage, a race track next door, and her sister wanting to sell the business, Madison decides to go all in to save the farm. 

A heartwarming story about family, starting over, and faith. I admired Madison's determination to make a go of the Christmas tree farm, and I liked her friendship with the neighbor girl, Lily, who likes to comes over and help out. There are strong themes of reconciliation, and faith, in this feel-good romance, about rebuilding a farm, and relationships. 

An easy read, with great characters, perfect for when you are looking  for something more relaxing and fun to read. Highly entertaining and enjoyable, perfect for the holiday season!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

K-9 Ranch Protection by Darlene L. Turner // Just Read Tour and Giveaway

Welcome to the Blog Tour for K-9 Ranch Protection by Darlene L. Turner, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: K-9 Ranch Protection
Series: Crisis Rescue Team #6
Author: Darlene L Turner
Publisher: Love Inspired Suspense
Release Date: September 24, 2024
Genre: Inspirational Romantic Suspense

A killer on the loose. 

A K-9 keeping watch. 

Police constable Izzy Tremblay knows her father’s death was no accident, so when she finally discovers a lead and is immediately attacked, her suspicions are confirmed. The ambush leaves her in the hospital with three hours of crucial memory missing, which she knows holds the key to finding her father’s murderer. For protection, she takes refuge with her ex-partner, Austin Murray, on his K-9 ranch while she races to uncover the truth. But with danger still lurking, can they stay alive long enough to take down a killer? 

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Harlequin | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Bookshop | BookBub

Lucie's Review:

The murder of her father makes Police Constable Izzy Tremblay the target of a killer, the only person she can turn to is her ex-partner and K-9 trainer, Austin Murray. 

An action-packed, suspense, with great pacing, and fraught with danger. Austin and Izzy make a great team, and I liked seeing how they reconnect after their falling out and time apart. Strong themes of faith and reconciliation throughout. I liked the interaction between Austin and Izzy, and how he is supportive of her and believes that she is on to something. 

Entertaining and well written, there is never a dull moment, I liked how Austin's dog is so protective of Izzy. There is a lot going on, and I liked the creative ways that they dealt with their attackers. 

Overall, a faith filled suspense, with likable protagonists, and a high stakes plot. Highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

More Books In This Series

       

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About the Author

Darlene L. Turner is an award-winning and a Publishers Weekly best-selling author and lives with her husband Jeff in Ontario, Canada. Her love of suspense began when she read her first Nancy Drew book. She’s turned that passion into her writing and believes readers will be captured by her plots, inspired by her strong characters, and moved by her inspirational message.

Connect with Darlene by visiting darlenelturner.com, where there’s suspense beyond borders, to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(4) winners will each receive a $25 Amazon egift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 23, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 30, 2024. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

My Bag, My story: End the Trash Bag and Help a Foster Child Today + Amazon GC Giveaway!

My Bag My Story is a heartfelt initiative that addresses a painful truth faced by many children in foster care. As they move from one temporary home to another, their possessions are often carried in a trash bag. For every bag purchased, My Bag My Story donates a high-quality, durable bag to a foster child. These bags are more than just practical; they are symbols of support and recognition, affirming the inherent value and worth of every child in the foster care system. Through this gesture, it not only provides something functional, but it also helps foster children feel seen and valued. 

 "I started My Bag My Story after becoming a foster parent and watching children always having their belongings in a trash bag or grocery sack or nothing. Everyone kept saying this was normal. I said it doesn’t have to be normal, so I set out to have bags made for kids," said Cara Finger, Founder of My Bag My Story. "Having a bag to call your own instead of a trash bag gives a child dignity and makes them feel valued. A bag seems so small but makes a huge difference in their foster care experience. Making a child feel like they are worth more than trash is so important to me."

There are over 400,000 children in the U.S. foster care system right now. (US Department of Education).

Children can remain in foster care for varying lengths of time, from a few days to several years, depending on their situation and the progress of reunification or the adoption process. 

Each year, around 20,000 young people age out of the foster care system at age 18 (or 21 in some states) without being reunited with their families or adopted, which can present significant challenges for their transition to independent living. (US Department of Education (ED))

Lighten the Load of Foster Care. For every bag purchased, a bag is given to a child navigating the foster care system. One Bag Purchased = One Bag Donated. 

https://mybagmystory.com/

1. Donations: Through its donation program, every dollar donated goes towards giving a child in foster care a bag they can call their own.

2. Dignity Program: My Bag My Story has partnered with over 30 Tennessee-based organizations who work directly with children in the foster care system in order to get them high-quality duffel bags and backpacks.

3. Supporters: As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, My Bag My Story depends on the support of local and national corporations, including Dell, The Predators Foundation, St. George’s Episcopal Church and Target.

Order a bag today and one will be given to a child navigating the foster care system!

#MyBagMyStoryMIN #endthetrashbag

Help support this wonderful organization that seeks to make a difficult situation more comfortable, and gives dignity by gifting a child in foster care a high quality bag to carry their belongings. 

It was cool to learn about how this organization offers care and dignity to children in need with this program, and how every dollar donated goes toward giving a bag to a child in foster care. And I just can't help but think a small thing like a real bag for their belongings, could be a comfort to a child going through an unstable living and family situation. 

My Bag, My Story, offers an easy way to reach out and show love to those who are hurting. On the website you can choose from a duffel bag, backpack, or pouch, in fun and inviting colors, and for each item you buy, one is given to a child. 

For each bag purchased, one is donated to a child in foster care. 

Many thanks to My Bag, My Story for providing a sample of the product for this review.

Opinions are 100% my own.

Giveaway: $10 Amazon gift card

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Meeting Her Match by Jen Turano // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Camilla has come a long way since the heartbreak of her debut year, vowing to never marry, she is well respected as a friend and matchmaker among the elite four hundred. After an attempted kidnapping, she agrees to help the sister of Mr. Owen Chesterfield repair her damaged reputation, travelling from New York to West Virginia. 

A charming historical rom-com, with a full cast of colorful characters, and hilarious encounters with animals of all kinds. I loved the hilarious situational comedy, and humorous miscommunications. I loved the characters, and the grandmother's scheming and matchmaking of her own. 

Such a fun read from beginning to end, with amazing characters, and a riveting plot. I had no trouble keeping the characters straight, even though there were quite a few, the author does a great job of distinguishing them quickly and memorably. 

Overall, a wonderful read, with great rapport and chemistry between the characters. Highly enjoyable!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever // Movie Trailer // In Theaters November 8th, 2024!

Based on the beloved novel by Barbara Robinson, which was one of my favorite books as a child!

The Herdman kids are absolutely the worst. They lie, they steal, they bully…and they’ve hijacked the town Christmas pageant. Directed by Dallas Jenkins (“The Chosen”) and based on the international bestseller by Barbara Robinson, THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER follows six siblings who sneak into church searching for snacks and walk away with the lead roles in the town pageant. Grace (Judy Greer) is directing the performance for the very first time; she and her daughter Beth (Molly Belle Wright) and husband Bob (Pete Holmes) are less than amused. But the play’s mischievous stars might unwittingly teach a community the true meaning of Christmas. Featuring Lauren Graham. Screenplay by Ryan Swanson and Platte F. Clark & Darin McDaniel.

In theaters November 8th, 2024

#TheBestChristmasPageantEverMIN