The Berenstain Bears' Book of Prayers by Mike Berenstain ~ Review

My Review:

A charming board book of prayers in poem form that praise God.

A lovely collection of prayers for every occasion to learn along with your favorite bear family. Beautifully illustrated, and divided into sections based on themes, this is a great book to share with children.

A lovely book, with prayer not only of thanks and worship, but also ones asking for guidance for frustration, comfort, forgiveness, repentance, and for others. I was very impressed, because one could very easily pray through the acronym ACTS along with this book. It has substance and doesn't just float on the surface with poems of birds and trees, like many other children's books on the market.

Overall, a wonderful board book to share with the young ones in your life, with classic charm and timeless lessons the Berenstain Bears never fail to entertain, teach, and delight. A great book to start conversations with young children about talking to God.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

Witness Pursuit by Hope White ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

When Cassie McBride stumbles upon a crime scene in a rental cabin, she becomes the killer's next target.

Nick Walsh is a good friend of Cassie's brother, and the police chief in Echo Mountain, so when he get's the call he rushes to her side. He realizes that the killer knows who she is and where she lives so he offers to help out by looking in on her when he can.

Will Nick and Cassie be able to stop the killer before it's too late?

I like Cassie's positive attitude, despite suffering from a painful childhood illness, she always looks on the bright side, and trusts in God. Cassie longs to see the places that she read about in books, which is how she finds herself  working on Echo Mountain.

I liked the action and suspense in this mystery, the killer think that Cassie has something that they want, but Nate and Cassie have no idea what they want or why. Cassie refuses to let Nate handle everything on his own, she wants to help him catch the killer, and prove that she is worthy of her hard won independence.

I really liked the interaction between Nate and Cassie, and how he supports her encouraging her to let her family know how she really feels about their smothering ways.

Nick is a good police chief, he sometimes feels old and cynical, especially around Cassie, and he knows that she deserves someone better, but despite his efforts to keep his distance he finds himself drawn to the ever hopeful Cassie.

Overall, an action packed read that had me hanging on tight. Cassie was my favorite for her determination to make the best out of every situation. Great mystery that kept me guessing throughout!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

The Biggest Story by Kevin DeYoung CD and DVD ~ Review+Giveaway

My Review:

A while back I reviewed a book called The Biggest Story and if you are interested you can read the review HERE.

Well, anyway, I absolutely LOVED it, and so when I found out that it was coming out in both audio and dvd format I knew I couldn't pass up an opportunity to promote such wonderful resources. In the audio version the story is read by the author, with a soundtrack in the background, and you can listen wherever you go as the story comes to life.

My favorite was the DVD, because there the vivid illustrations by Don Clark come to life, in brilliant colors unfolding along to Mr. DeYoung's narration. This wonderful book starts in Genesis and goes all the way through to Revelation, showing our need for a Savior, pointing to a Jesus Christ and how he fills the roles of prophet, warrior, and king.

Overall, this is fantastic media, great for all ages it shows our need for a Savior who is the ultimate Snakecrusher who conquered death once and for all. The DVD and audio would make a great gift, or would be fantastic resources for children's ministry, I cannot recommend these products enough--probably the best book book marketed towards children that I have read all year! An absolutely stunning production, I highly recommend!



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

The DVD can be purchased HERE

And the audio can be purchased HERE

If you are interested in winning a copy of these products please leave your email addy in the comments below- encoded so spammer's don't get it [youremail at hotmail dot com]

Along with your entry leave a comment about who you would share these wonderful product with :) 

Giveaway open to US and Canada residents only.

If you have won a giveaway hosted by Propeller in the last 30 days you are not eligible to win this giveaway.

Winner will be selected 9-20-16

From This Moment by Elizabeth Camden ~ Review

My Review:

Famed lithographer Stella Westergaard arrives in Boston with one goal, getting to the bottom of the foul play behind her sister Gwen's death. So she moves to Boston taking a job as a stenographer at city hall, leaning on her sister's mysterious letters to help her find her sister's killer. Stella finds an unlikely ally in Romulus White the owner of the prominent Science World Magazine, a man with connections in high places, with a love of knowledge, who matches her for stubbornness in every category.

Sparks fly as the danger draws near, will Stella and Romulus be able to expose the corruption in city hall and bring Gwendolyn's murderer to justice?

Stella and Romulus are more alike than they would like to admit, passionate about their work and stubborn to a fault. They are both utterly devoted to their families, and Romulus has always been like a brother to his dear cousin Evelyn.

I loved the fast moving setting of the bustling Boston, perfect for this fast paced adventure. I admired Stella's determination on her quest for truth, not giving up despite the dead ends she keeps coming up against time and time again.

Romulus is a charming man who does not go unnoticed with his flamboyant mode of dress, which covers in his inward insecurities of not living up to his father's expectations. He is a self made man who has worked hard alongside his cousin for everything that he now calls his own, making prominent connections in Boston.

I liked Stella and her deep appreciation for her craft, and her passion to find the truth, though at times it blinded her to societies polite expectations.

Overall, a sweeping historical novel filled with passionate characters, snappy dialogue, intrigue, and mystery. Skillful storytelling brings Boston to life, in this quick moving read from Ms. Camden that lived up to my high expectations!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

Home on the Range by Ruth Logan Herne ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Nick has worked hard to be a better husband and father than his own father was, but Whitney hated the ranch and when she walked out on him and their two daughters his world came crashing down. He's done his best to handle raising his two daughters, but when the school suggests that he get in touch with a therapist, he decides to check it out, leading him to meet Dr. Elsa Andreas.

Three years ago, after heartbreaking tragedy Elsa Andreas walked away from her thriving family practice to live in the backwoods, in what Nick calls a "Hobbit Hole." At first she doesn't want to help, but she has a change of heart once she learns about Nick's daughters Cheyenne and Dakota.

As they work together to help the girls, will Nick and Elsa find that they can help each other heal hurts from the past too?

I love that Nick moved home to the Double S to be with his family, for both the girls and because of his father's debilitating liver condition. Colt, Angelina, and his mother are also there to provide support.

I loved the friendship between Nick and Elsa, they both have a lot to give despite their past pain, Elsa sees a few things that she points out to Nick, and he in turn reminds her that there is life outside her "Hobbit Hole." Nick helps Elsa see the value of community and I loved to see her getting to know more people in the town, and getting more involved.

Nick has been trying to hold things all together on his own for a long time, but upon coming home he sees that things could be help and accepting help and support can be good. He has an open mind, and is willing to try new solutions.

An engaging read, that was hard to put down, I read it all in a day! I didn't want to the book to end--even though I did want Nick and Elsa to find happiness. I loved returning to the Double S and the rest of the Staffords, great dialog propels the story with touches of humor. Highly recommend! I can't wait for the next one!



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

Lady Unrivaled by Roseanna M. White ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Lady Ella Myerston comes to visit Brook, the Duchess of Stafford, wanting to learn more about the mysterious red diamonds that have caused so much trouble. Her brother, Brice, is of no help to her where the diamonds are concerned, so she goes to Stafford, determined to do her own research.

The Earl of Cayton has turned his life around in the last year. He's learned from his past mistakes and he wants to be a good father to his young daughter Addie, now that her mother is gone.

Ella and Cayton cross paths, and get swept into the intrigue surrounding the diamonds, will they be able to keep the Fire Eyes from falling into the wrong hands?

I liked Cayton and how he has really changed a lot, and is dedicated to his new faith in Christ, and turning a new leaf. But as things with the diamonds escalate and Lord Rushworth and his daughter, Catherine, arrive he must make tough decisions about how far he is willing to go to protect the diamonds.

Ella has a compassionate spirit, she tries to befriend Catherine after seeing her pain at losing her son. Ella is a friendly and vivacious young woman, who is much more mature that others give her credit for, she is discerning and relies daily on her faith.

I also really liked Kira Belova, another in search of the diamonds. She is a multi-talented young woman, who left a lot behind in Russia.

Overall, a wonderful read full of surprises, and it was wonderful to finally have a conclusion to the  Fire Eyes  saga that has been a constant in all three books of the series.I loved the friendship between Ella and Cayton and how their relationship develops throughout the book, the make each other better and come to depend on each other over the course of their time together. There is excellent dialogue and many interesting characters. A fantastic read for lovers of Edwardian fiction!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

God Made the Sun & God Made the Moon by Mary Manz Simon, illustrated by Lizzie Walkley ~ Review

My Review:

Two delightful cutout board books that celebrate God's creation through verse and rhyme. I love how these books show God's love for us, and speak of how he has provided for us through his Creation.

One book is about the moon and another is about the sun, the brightly colored illustrations bring cheer to the book, and fit perfectly with the cheerful sing song poems.

The cutout detail is unique and was one of the very first things that I noticed when these books arrived in the mail, connecting the illustrations throughout.

I think my favorite of the two books was the one about the moon, and how the little girl goes through her nighttime rituals and how the moon reminds her of God's love for her.

Overall, these are delightful and lovely books to share with the young ones in your life, they god well together and would make for a great gift!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

Texas Cinderella by Winnie Griggs ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Cassie Lynn Vickers' life didn't go the way that she had hoped, and now she is staying with Mrs. Flanagan, embracing the freedom of working for herself and seeing the profit. But when her father comes for her, she longs for escape

Riley Walker wasn't planning on stopping in Turnabout, Texas, but his niece and nephew want consistency in their life, so he agrees that they can stay for a while. He has been raising his niece and nephew for seven years, ever since their mother entrusted them to him, to keep them safe from Riley's step-brother, their father.

I really liked Mrs. Flanagan, she is a forthright and opinionated woman, but she is caring and kind, and encourages Cassie in her dreams. She even insists that the children come to stay with her too, and gives Riley the attic. She has a soft spot for the children and keep them entertained with stories and activities.

I like Riley and how he is very honest, and does what is best for his niece and nephew, following his faith.

Cassie is industrious, with a caring and compassionate soul, she is upbeat and positive, happy to lend a helping hand.

Overall, a great read, with an intriguing plot, and a lot going on. It has a lot going on, with several surprises and an action-packed ending. Highly enjoyed!




Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

Without Warning by Lynette Eason ~ Review

Lucie's Review:
Katie Singleton is a member of the Elite Guardians Protection Agency, she finds her next assignment when she sees something odd going on at one of her favorite restaurants.

Daniel Matthews is an ex-marine and the owner of a successful restaurant chain, and loving uncle to is niece, Riley. But it would seem that someone is unafraid to go to great lengths to put him out of business, he worries that his niece is also in danger so he asks Katie to check on Riley. But Riley wants someone to help protect her uncle too, so Daniel hires Katie's agency to put Riley at ease.

Will Daniel and Katie be able to find out who is behind the threats and why, before it's too late.

Taunt with suspense, and filled with suspense that will keep you guessing, Daniel and Katie work together to protect what and who they love, as the perpetrator get's bolder and everything they love is at stake. Stronger together, they are diligent and capable, and won't go down without a fight.

I liked how Katie and Daniel came to get to know one another, and trust each other, admiring the things in their pasts that made them who they are. They support one another, and know how to lighten the mood and release some of the tension of their situation.

Riley has a good head on her shoulders, raised by er missionary parents before their death, she relies heavily on her faith, and doesn't worry about fitting in, but doing what is right.

Overall, a heart-stopping read, with compelling heroes, and a gripping climax. It has a quick hook, and I couldn't put it down. Te perfect book for lovers of romantic suspense!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

Love's Betrayal by DiAnn Mills & Faithful Traitor by Jill Stengl ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Love's Betrayal
Delight Butler is the oldest of Elijah Butler's seven daughters, and a staunch defender of the patriot cause, so when her father decides to move their family from Boston to Chesterfield she is disappointed to leave behind her work to help the revolutionaries.

But when her family is forced to take in a British soldier who has been injured, Delight volunteers to care for him despite the fact that she abhors everything that he has fought for.

Henry O'Neill is pretty much impossible to dislike, he is a good-natured Irishman, who fits in with the Butler family seamlessly, he plays tea party with her sisters, chess with Delight's father, and speaks freely about his faith. He and Delight have many spirited discussions about their beliefs, and form a friendship of respect and mutual understanding.

I really liked how this story told of the war through the eyes of characters from different backgrounds and perspectives. This is a well written read, with great characters, dialog, humor, and family.

Faithful Traitor
Georgette's family moves from England to Boston with her family because of her father's business, and now he wants her to marry a colonist, Mr. LaTournay.

Marianne is an amazing friend to Georgette, encouraging her to pray in troubled times and trust God for her future.

A well written story, I really admired Georgette and how she follows her faith, and surrounds herself with good people like her friend Marianne. This is a great novella, filled with mystery, and unexpected revelations.





Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

Starving Hearts by Janine Mendenhall ~ Review

Lucie's Review:



Annette Chetwynd is intelligent and well educated, but lonely now that her brother and father are away. So when her cousin shows her a secret passage she takes advantage of the opportunity to  meet the man that she has had a crush on for years.

Peter Adsley is studying for the ministry and will soon have a pastorate of his own. Peter plans to propose to his friend Sylvia Bretherton, but she has plans to marry his brother instead, to save her family from financial ruin. And he wonders about the beautiful young woman, who seems to always cross his path.

Will Annette and Peter find rest for their heartaches?

Annette is young, naive, and has a tendency to ignore societies rules with no regard to the possible cost. She is seeking, and doesn't quite know what she believes in. But she matures a lot over the course of the book becoming a welcome source of encouragement to Peter during his change of circumstances.

I liked Peter for his determination, and steadfastness. I liked how the Bible study with Annette in turn benefits him as well, strengthening his faith for the storm to come.

It did take a while for me to get into the book, and a lot of that had to do with how much I didn't like how much the book followed the bad guy. I just really didn't enjoy being in his head. And I couldn't understand how Annette's mother could be so unfeeling, pushing her daughter into a marriage with a terrible man. So that made it hard for me to pick up the book at times.

I loved the way that the story all came together in the end with the unexpected way that the truth comes out and hope is restored. Annette and Peter learn a lot along their journey and grow as individuals.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

About the book: 

Starving Hearts (Heritage Beacon Fiction, May 2016)

Since her assault, Miss Annette Chetwynd has been plagued by nightmares and worries about an arranged marriage.

She yearns to find her anonymous rescuer. Unfortunately, her health and intellect prevent it. Both repel suitors and cause Annette to doubt God's existence, at least until He answers her prayers in an unusual way. . . .

Mr. Peter Adsley is joining the clergy, and he desires a godly wife by his side. After a failed attempt to obtain one, he engages in a clandestine meeting with the bewitching young woman who keeps crossing his path. But she is so unsettling.

Destined for disappointments, Peter and Annette both endure disgraceful situations. Will Peter's faith sustain him through overwhelming setbacks? Can Annette overcome her doubts? Or will their starving hearts yield to the machinations of a mad man?

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/28OtflH

About the author:

Janine Mendenhall teaches teens English, of all things! Sometimes she sleeps, but most nights she reads, writes, or watches movies like Pride and Prejudice and claims she's researching her next book. Splickety Love and Splickety Prime have published her flash fiction. She and her husband, Tom, live in North Carolina where they and their two golden retrievers help gratify the needs of their five children and two cats.

Landing page:

http://litfusegroup.com/author/jmendenhall

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram

Will Annette's search for love and acceptance replace the loss and hurt in her heart? Find out in Janine Mendenhall's book one, Starving Hearts, of the Triangular Trade Trilogy. Since her assault, Miss Annette Chetwynd has been plagued by nightmares and worries about an arranged marriage. But she yearns to find her anonymous rescuer. Unfortunately, her health and intellect prevent it. Both repel suitors and cause Annette to doubt God’s existence, at least until He answers her prayers in an unusual way. . . .

Join in the search for love and acceptance with Janine and Starving Hearts by entering to win the Delightful Heart Gift Pack Giveaway.

 

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A copy of Starving Hearts
• A bottle of essential oils
• An essential oils diffuser necklace
• A chiffon scarf
• A shoulder handbag
• A copy of Jane Austen's World

 

Enter today by clicking the icon below, but hurry! The giveaway ends on September 12. The winner will be announced September 13 on Janine's blog.

Saving the Marquise's Granddaughter by Carrie Fancett Pagels ~ Review

Lucie's Review:


Guillame "Guy" and his younger sister Suzanne are Huguenots in France during a time of great unrest and political instability. After her father is arrested Suzanne must follow through with the escape plan on her own.

She entrusted into the care of Johan Rousch, a man willing to risk his life to keep her safe as they travel to America.

New opportunities await on a path fraught with danger.

Suzanne really grows a lot over the course of the book and the way that she sees the world changes as well. In the beginning she comes off as naive, and a bit spoiled, blaming her parent's faith for all of her problems, and preferring her grandmother's traditions more. But through Johan and his unwavering faith, she comes to see things in a different light.

Overall, a real journey of character for Suzanne, who experiences a whole new side of life. The book was very well researched. It was a bit slow to start, but had a great ending, and interesting characters living during a challenging era. Great for fans of French history.



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."