The Stable Cat's Christmas by Christina S. Vrba, illustrated by Gail Yerrill ~ Review

My Review:

The little orange cat the lives in the stable where Jesus was born has no gift to give the newborn King, does he have anything to offer the little baby Jesus?

A charming story of a cat who wants to be like the other animals and have something to give Jesus. The story was charming, with delightful illustrations to accompany it that are classic and really help to establish the tone of the book. I liked most of the story, but I thought that it took an odd turn at the end, where he gains stripes. Personally I thought that the book would have ended well with him finding a gift for Jesus and worshipping Him, but it felt kinda of odd to me the turn that it took.

Overall, a cute story for Christmas, with beautiful pictures, that makes for a fun read at Christmastime. I'm not sure how I feel about the way that it ended, and personally it just struck me as odd, and it ended up reading more like a legend-type tale. But I really liked the message of no matter who you are, there is always something to offer Jesus Christ.


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."

World View: Seeking Grace and Truth in Our Common Life by Marvin Olasky

My Review:

As an avid reader of World, I instantly recognized Marvin Olasky's name. I have long enjoyed his balanced and thoughtful columns and articles in World. This book brings together a collection of Mr. Olasky's columns from the past few decades, and it just goes to show that nothing is new under the sun in the midst of huge changes. It's amazing that an article written in 1995 is just as relevant as one written a few months ago, or even last year.

Each article is crafted to make the reader to think and ponder their convictions in light of a Biblical worldview. Some of the articles were nostalgic, in a way that it made me think that we were debating one thing 2 years ago, and now it have progressed to 5 steps down the line.

Overall, a wonderful collection of Marvin Olasky's most memorable columns over the years covering a variety of topics. Great read for fans of World. Concise chapters make for easy navigation and reading. Well worth the read!

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: As Editor-in-Chief of World Magazine, Marvin Olasky has offered his views on current events and culture for more than 25 years. In this collection of columns, he shows readers how Christians can speak biblical truths while also living out the biblical values of grace and mercy in today's world.

What Makes the World View Unique?

While regular readers of World Magazine may remember some of the columns contained in World View, never before has a collection of Marvin Olasky's work over the last 25 years been curated like this. These 60 columns cover a wide variety of issues that remain relevant today, ranging from political issues such as immigration and welfare to social issues including homosexuality and racism. Olasky also touches on everyday conversations such as movie reviews, career paths and the impact of Millennials. While reading his commentary, readers will learn a new way to consider and respond to any situation in a way that lives out all biblical virtues, including mercy and grace as well as truth.

Who Is the Product for?

Thoughtful Christians who are looking for guidance on how to live out the biblical values of humility, kindness and mercy while still standing up for Scripture will find a new way to consider challenges in World View. Secular readers including conservatives as well as people interested in learning more about how prominent Christian leaders think will also find Olasky's views and commentary helpful and interesting. 

Learn more about Marvin and his new release here.

How could our world be different if Christians were recognized for not only speaking the truth, but also demonstrating mercy?

What would our lives be like if we reacted to our common culture with not just biblical facts, but also grace and compassion?

For more than 25 years, Marvin Olasky has offered this kind of viewpoint in his columns as the Editor-in-Chief of World Magazine, the leading news magazine written with a Christian perspective. In this collection of far-ranging columns, Olasky's commentary on world events and affairs, as well as his own personal interactions, encourages readers to respond with both grace and truth in every encounter.

A leading voice for standing for biblical truth in the public square, Olasky also believes Christians should incorporate the biblical virtues of humility, kindness, and mercy in all of life. His call for biblical values to include both truth and mercy makes his voice stand out in a world that often falsely divides those goals and settles for a poor imitation of the robust Christianity described in Scripture. These short and punchy columns offer readers a new way to consider challenges in today's world and shows them how to respond to any encounter biblically, but not hysterically, providing a wake-up call for the complacent, while also calming the frantic.

Learn more, read a sample, and purchase a copy.

Marvin Olasky is editor-in-chief of "World News Group," a distinguished chair in journalism and public policy at Patrick Henry College, and the author of more than twenty books, including "Compassionate Conservatism" and "The Tragedy of American Compassion." He and his wife, Susan, have four sons and five grandchildren.

Find out more about Marvin at http://stores.newgrowthpress.com.

Check out other great stops on the tour here: http://litfusegroup.com/author/molasky 

Montana Bride by Christmas by Linda Ford ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

When Annie Marshall arrives to answer single father Pastor Hugh Arness's advert for a mail order bride, with her grandfather in tow, he is shocked. Annie is beautiful, vivacious, and far too lively to be a preacher's wife.  But she connects instantly with his 4 year old son, Evan, who is still recovering from the abuse and neglect of Hugh's former wife, he agrees to a trial period chaperoned by Annie's grandfather.

I like how protective Annie's grandfather is of her, he loves her and doesn't think that she should marry someone for convenience, but agrees to stay and chaperone. He is quite the character, and adds alot of humor to the book.

Annie is intelligent, thoughtful, and compassionate. I love how she helps Evan come out if his shell and reconnect with his father, suggesting forming routines to give Evan a stronger sense of security. As Hugh sees Annie with his son he can't help but have trouble trying to ignore his growing feelings for her.

Overall, this is a fun read, and a sweet read for Christmas. I like that Annie's family rallies around her and that she is able to stand up for herself and the life that she wants.

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."

Picturing Heaven: 40 Hope Filled Devotions with Coloring Pages by Randy Alcorn and illustrated by Lizzie Preston ~ Review

My Review:

Filled with beautiful illustrations accompanied by excerpts from Randy Alcorn's 50 Days of Heaven, this new coloring book in full of wonder, comfort, and longing for eternity.

This book is beautiful with gold foiling on the cover, and gold coloring that enhances the intricate and splendid drawings that bring to life what this artist sees when she reads Mr. Alcorn's devotions. Each devotion is accompanied by a scripture that talks about heaven. I think one of my favorite things about this book is that even after you are done coloring every page, it will be even more beautiful and you can revisit the devotions and the artwork over and over again. It is very obvious that this book was put together with longevity in mind and not to just color and forget about.

Overall, a stunning book that would make a terrific gift for someone who has been pondering heaven, or who needs some comfort or reassurance. I personally am always in awestruck wonder when I think about heaven and the wonders of the Saviour's glory. A beautiful book that would make 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."

The Beginner's Gospel Story Book by Jared Kennedy, illustrated by Trish Mahoney ~ Review

My Review:

52 chapters the tell the story of Jesus Christ, from Genesis to Revelation, with a conversational lilt to the storytelling, and thought provoking conversation starting questions that get the young person in your life to start thinking about the important things in life.

Illustrated in bright colors, and simple, but expressive pictures, this book brings to life the Gospel, from Creation to what is still yet to come. I loved that the chapters were concise. They took each event and connected it to the cross of Christ, and ended with a challenge question that was easy enough for a child to understand, yet deep and would be a great way to start a conversation.

I really liked how this book was very focused on helping children understand the Gospel, and what it truly means. This would be a fantastic book for a young person in your life, with it's bright colors and big print, it would even be perfect for new readers!

Overall, I was very impressed with this book, it takes the idea of a children's Bible storybook to the next level, and gets them thinking about the meaning of the story and what it means in light of the Gospel and Jesus Christ. 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."

How do you explain the gospel to toddlers and preschoolers?

Often adults are stumped, but Jared Kennedy's focus on the promises of God makes the gospelcome alive to the littlest hearts. Through fifty-two Old and New Testament stories, The Beginner'sGospel Story Bible highlights God's perfect promises. Every page pops with bright colors, playful illustrations, fun learning opportunities, and, best of all each story points children to Jesus.

Kids know the value of a promise. Through the gospel, our good and all-powerful God keeps his word and fulfills his promises to us better than we could have ever thought or imagined!

In The Beginner's Gospel Story Bible, author Jared Kennedy traces God's perfect promises through fifty-two Old and New Testament stories, retold in simple and compelling ways with toddlers and preschoolers in mind. Each gospel-centered story highlights God's tale of redemption through Jesus and the unexpected and surprising ways that God's grace and mercy are revealed throughout the Bible. Children will hear the good news of God's love for them clearly expressed in ways that will speak to their young hearts. Brightly colored illustrations highlight thestories and add fun teaching elements of counting, opposites, patterns, and object recognition to keep even the youngest child's attention. Every story also ends with a question that parents and caregivers can use to further reinforce themessage.

Through reading this book one chapter at a time to your children-or letting them read it to you!-even the youngest kids will come to know that God's promises are especially for them, and that God always keeps his promises.

Learn more, read a sample, and purchase a copy.

Jared Kennedy, MDiv, ThM, is the husband to Megan and the father of three girls-Rachael, Lucy, and Elisabeth. He serves as Pastor of Families at Sojourn Community Church-Midtown in Louisville, KY and as children's ministry strategist for Sojourn Network. He blogs regularly at gospelcenteredfamily.com and is also thecoauthor of "Leadership Mosaic" and two VBS programs, "Proof Pirates" and "Clap Your Hands," "Stomp Your Feet."

Find out more about Jared at http://www.gospelcenteredfamily.com.

Landing Page: http://litfusegroup.com/author/jkennedy

Christmas at Carnton by Tamera Alexander ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Aletta Prescott feels like she is at the end of her rope, having lost her husband in the War Between the States, with a young son, and a baby on the way, she struggles to hold on to hope.

She sees a notice in the paper advertising for cooks for a fundraiser in honor of the soldiers, but when she reaches Carnton, all of the positions have been filled. Mrs. McGavock insists that they stay for hot chocolate before they leave, and while she is there Aletta overhears that they need someone to help build a life size nativity. She father was a master carpenter and taught her well, so she offers to take the job.

Captain Jake Winston is a sharpshooter with the Confederate Army, he has been ordered to go to Carnton to help with the fundraiser, and also for rest due to his loss of long-range vision from an injury. He meets Aletta at Carnton and she recruits him to help her with the Nativity.

I love the interaction between Aletta and Jake, as they get to know each other as they work. He realizes that she is still mourning and is respectful of that. I like how Jake befriends Andrew and takes time to teach Andrew a few things.

I really like how this book showed how the the war and the Women's Relief Society brought people of all stations in life together. I think one of my favorite characters was Tempy, she is a wealth of knowledge and the head cook at Carnton. This is a wonderful introduction to a new series, I love how Jake grows and comes to some realizations over the course of the story and how Christmas brings him and Aletta together.


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."

Christmas on the Run by Shirlee McCoy ~ Review

Lucie's Review:


Carly Kelly is a museum conservator at the Smithsonian, when blackmailers ask to forge antique stones, and threaten to take her 6 yr old son, Zane, she reaches out to her late husband's ex-military half-brother, and member of HEART, for help.

Dallas Morgan has noticed Carly running by his house every morning on her daily jog, he's never spoken to her before so when he approaches her, she runs. When she get's home her son is nowhere to be found, but Dallas has experience with threats and hostage situations, and he calls in all of his connections to help get Zane back.

I liked that Carly's best friend, Jazz, moved in to help her with Zane after the death of Carly's husband, and she does everything she can to try to prevent the bad guys from taking Zane.

I love that Dallas get's a chance to connect with the nephew that he didn't know that he had, but it also reminds him of what he lost. He is a rock for Carly, so she doesn't have to go through everything alone.

Carly is a headstrong and protective mother, she doesn't want to sit on the sidelines while others do the work, she wants to help where she can to get her boy back in her arms. As she get's to know Dallas she wonders if she has been given a second chance that she didn't even know that she wanted.

Fast paced, with a heart pounding mystery, fraught with tension, and surprise twists. Definitely a great addition to the HEART series!


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."

An Inconvenient Beauty by Kristi Ann Hunter ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Griffith, the Duke of Riverton, likes things logical and orderly, so he naturally wants to apply his logic skills towards finding a wife. He has decided that the most sensible choice for a spouse would be Frederica St Claire, but he can't seem to get her stunning beautiful cousin, Isabella Breckenridge out of his head.

Isabella Breckenridge is in London for her first season, sponsored by her Uncle Percy. Her Uncle is sponsoring her season in London to help her struggling family, as well as to serve his own purposes as the figurehead of the Apothecary Act.

Isabella wants to do her duty to help her family, even if it means possibly letting go of any dreams of a future with Griffith.

I really liked Frederica, she is a kind and headstrong young woman who knows her own heart. She loves another man and is not interested in Griffith, whether or not he is a Duke. She instead directs his interest to Isabella.

Isabella is a bright and beautiful young woman, she and Griffith quickly strike up a comfortable friendship. And he likes that she is the only young woman outside of his family who treats him like a regular man, and speaks freely with him of her love of plants and flowers. But she is riddled with guilt  for what she has done going along with her Uncle's plan, making her own way instead of trusting God.

I like how Griffith has a good group of friends, mainly Ryland, who give him good advice. Griffith is an honorable fellow, full of integrity, and lives his faith. I like that he is a man of action and when he knows what to do he doesn't tarry.

A fantastic read from beginning to end, I love how Griffith is a gentleman like Mr. Knightley who doesn't lead women on. And Frederica is my favorite because she knows her heart and what is important. Definitely a must read for fans of the previous Hawthorne House books, or for anyone who loves a well done Regency romance!



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."

Blind Spot by Dani Pettrey ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Declan Grey is investigating a terrorist plot with illegal arms smuggling, the FBI teams him up with Tanner Snow. Tanner is a gifted agent, with the remarkable ability to put almost anyone at ease in multiple languages. She was born in Israel, and after serving time in their military she immigrated to the United States, went to school, and now works to help people live in safety.

I admired Tanner for her faith and inner strength. Declan surprises Tanner by lightening up tense moments, she likes how he really listens to her and values her opinions. I love how Tanner and Declan work together to unravel the clues left by a late agent to catch the terrorists and protect many innocents.

Meanwhile CCI has been hired by their old coach to find out who is stealing money from the investment firm and framing the coach.

Declan is honorable and lives his faith, he does his best to respectfully protect Tanner, while knowing that she has his back too.

This is a fast paced read that was pretty much impossible to put down. I loved how Tanner and Declan bring out the best in each other, and how her faith really shine in how she treats others. Fantastic read from beginning to end!



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."

Dangerous Illusions by Irene Hannon ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Trish Bailey has her hands full working a demanding job and caring for her mother, who was chronically injured in a car accident that took both their husbands. Trish  teaches art at a school for the underprivileged, and her mother runs a charitable foundation, with the help of their accountant Matt Parker. Trish is shocked when her mother dies suddenly.

Detective Colin Flynn tries to be sensitive to Trish's feelings, but he believes the death to be of natural causes. When the tox screening comes back positive, he knows that he must dig deeper to find answers.

I like that Trish tries not to dwell on the new information, but when she is attacked in the parking lot of the school, she can't ignore the fact that she is in danger. Colin rushes to her aid, and suggests that they take a deeper look at everything, and that Matt's strange behavior is worth a second glance.

I like that Trish holds to her faith, and is open about her faith with Colin. I like that she has someone that she can trust and depend on in Colin, and that they find that they enjoy spending time together. I really liked how they got to know each other.

I think that they title is very fitting for this book, and it definitely makes more sense as the story progresses. I really admired Trish and her determination in the midst of a tough situation. She doesn't care much for money, but wants to help others. This was a thrilling read from beginning to end, with many twists and turns along the way. Fantastic, and hard to put down.

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 All Along by Beth Wiseman ~ Review

My Review:

When Charlotte's long lost sister Andrea shows up at their mother's funeral she is shocked. Andrea is in some trouble of her own, and decides to crash with Charlotte. Charlotte doesn't have much to spare, but she tries to make her sister, and her niece, Bella feel welcome.

Meanwhile Charlotte struggles with the decision about her and Daniel's relationship looming in their future, as they cannot continue as they are forever. Lena's family deals with her cancer diagnosis, and Daniel's family is shaken to their core when complications with his mother's pregnancy force them to make choices they never thought they'd ever have to face.

The third in a series, Home All Along is a great conclusion to this heart felt tale of family, love, and forgiveness. I would definitely recommend reading the other books in the series before reading this one, as it would definitely be a bit tricky at first if you didn't know what was going on.

I really like how Annie matures over the course of this book, and really puts her past behind her, and being strong for her family.

Charlotte and Daniel have to make some tough decisions about where their relationship is going, and they are forced to think about what they are willing to sacrifice for their love.

Andrea was a surprising character, and her daughter Bella is adorable. Andrea is quick thinking, smart, and skeptical. I like her spunk, and despite her dishonesty at first, she did win me over by the end.

Overall, a really great conclusion to the story arch, heartbreaking at times, I loved the way that Charlotte's friends are there for her and each other. Fantastic read!

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."