How to Teach Kids Theology: Deep Truths for Growing Faith by Sam Luce and Hunter Williams // Review

My Review: 

Teaching theology can feel like a heavy responsibility, but this book encourages anyone in children's ministry to have confidence in sharing the simple yet deep truths of God and making the most of everyday moments. 

I loved the passion and relatability that the authors bring to this book, encouraging volunteers, parents, Sunday school teachers, and youth leaders, along the way. I especially liked how they stressed the importance of showing children an accurate picture of God and His attributes. We cannot teach children only about His love and neglect His holiness, goodness, mercy, justice, etc. 

Under 200 pages including the appendixes, this book is concise and cuts to the heart of the matter, with suggestions for resources as well. I think that my favorite part of this book was how it encourages parents, children's ministry workers and volunteers to not shy away from tough topics, but teach about who God is and give our kids a solid foundation to build their own theology on. 

Overall, a must-read for anyone working with children at church or at home. I found this book so encouraging, and before I was even finished I was recommending it to friends and talking over topics covered in the book. Now that I've finished it, I recommend it even more and want to read it again in the future!

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

About the Author:

 Sam graduated from Portland Bible College in 1997 with a BA in Theology and has since dedicated over two decades to serving at Redeemer Church in Utica, New York. Beginning as a children's pastor, he has held various roles and currently serves as the Executive Pastor of Ministries. In 2021, Sam earned dual Master of Arts degrees from Knox Theological Seminary in Biblical and Theological Studies, as well as Christian and Classical Studies. An accomplished author and contributing editor to K! magazine, Sam has also chaired the INCM board and maintained a blog since 2007. He is a sought-after speaker at conferences and offers coaching, focusing on the transformative power of the Gospel and mentoring the next generation of disciple-makers. Sam and his wife celebrate 25 years of marriage and cherish their four children, aged 20, 17, 15, and 11. They currently reside in Upstate New York, where Sam enjoys reading, baseball, writing, and quality time with his family.

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Trained to Protect by Terri Reed // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Marine biologist Julia Hamilton accidently witnesses an attempted kidnapping while studying turtles on San Padre Island, and suddenly she is the target of a cartel, so she turns to her police chief brother and his best friend,  K-9 officer, Tarren McGregor, for help. 

A riveting adventure with compelling characters and an engaging plot, with a good balance of suspense, romance, depth and faith. I liked how Julia was surrounded by friends and family who were supportive of her, and concerned for her safety. Tarren is a great guy, with a multi-talented dog, Raz. I liked how Julia and Tarren learn to trust and depend on each other, as the stakes rise, into an action packed conclusion. 

Great character development and strong themes of faith throughout, I really enjoyed how Julia and Tarren were able to talk about their faith, and encourage each other. 

Overall, a fantastic read, well paced, and full of suspense, faith, and relationship building. Amazing characters and a great plot, highly recommend!

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

CSB Jesus Daily Bible // Review and Giveaway

Read through the Bible in a year—and keep Jesus at the center of each day.

The NEW CSB Jesus Daily Bible includes a 52-week, Christ-focused, guided reading plan that you can join at any point during the year. Day by day, you'll thematically study Scripture through a weekly introduction, helpful articles and infographics, and a weekly summary to help you understand Jesus’s central role from Genesis to Revelation. 

 Every page of God’s Word points to the bigger story of Jesus. And every day, the CSB Jesus Daily Bible will help you see how. Learn more at CSBJesusDailyBible.com

My Review: 

Read through the Bible in a year with the CSB Jesus Daily Bible, but unlike other yearly plans  it doesn't start on January 1st so you can jump in whenever you want!

The Christian Standard Bible (CSB) is a contemporary translation that strives for a balance between ease of reading as well as integrity to the original texts. The Jesus Daily edition is a great everyday Bible that is perfect for Bible in a year reading, as well as study material with charts, graphics, and articles. Each week section has an introduction and then a summary covering the passages read that week. I enjoyed reading through the charts that brought out themes pointing to Christ, filled with references in the Old and New Testament. 

This Bible also includes a collection of colorful maps, bolded text, and a concordance. I think this is a great Bible for daily reading whether you follow the plan or not, a great resource with a lot of great features inside great for people who are always on the go. 

Overall, a great Bible for someone who is looking for a little extra structure and guidance, but wants to study in a way that points to our Savior!

 #JesusDailyBibleMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork @christianstandardbible @bhpub #jesusdailybible #dailybible #bibleinayear #christianstandardbible #csb #csbible #holmanbible #bhpub 

 Many thanks to Lifeway Christian Resources for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own. 

 Order your copy of the CSB Jesus Daily Bible today! Learn more at CSBJesusDailyBible.com 

 Giveaway: 1 copy of CSB Jesus Daily Bible (Note: This is limited to US winners only).

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Between Borders // Movie Review and Giveaway

Watch this moving family film in theaters starting January 26! 

 In a crumbling Soviet Union, the Petrosyan family are outcasts—wherever they go. Armenian heritage marks them for discrimination both at home in Azerbaijan and in Russia. Based on a riveting true story of faith and hope set amidst great oppression … in the shadow of exile, hope became their home. 

 Buy tickets today to see Between Borders in theaters only January 26-28! 

Between Borders - Fathom Events

My Review:

A gripping and emotional film, filled with hope, about a family struggling against the odds to give their family a safe place to call home, based on a true story. 

Ivan and Violetta Petrosyan are Armenians living in Azerbaijan in the 1980's, but as tensions rise they are forced to live in Russia, where they face discrimination and threats as they try to raise their young family. The film was very well done, with great writing, a talented cast, and a well paced plot that poignantly told the Petrosyan's story, evocatively telling their story. The film did an excellent job of showing the plight of a family caught in a bleak situation, as well as the tensions of living in the Soviet Union. I'd heard in passing about some of the discriminations that Armenians face in Russia, but had never really understood the conflict or been exposed to much information about this time period. 

A moving film, with strong themes of faith, family, and fighting for a sense of home. I genuinely enjoyed this thought provoking film, and found it to be incredibly well-done. It does a great job of realistically showing the struggles they faced, as well as the hope they found through faith. This film is also appropriate to view with your family, though likely not a fit for young kids who might not understand what is going on. 

Overall, a well made film that doesn't shy away from a bold message of faith, in this re-telling of an incredible true story of hope and home. Well worth making time to go and see!

 #BetweenBordersMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork 

 Many thanks to Pinnacle Peak Pictures for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own. 

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

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The Unbreakable Boy // Trailer

 A heartwarming film for the whole family, about an extraordinary boy. I'm excited to see this film about a family who beats the odds and fights together, no matter what.

Zachary Levi and Meghann Fahy star in the #UnbreakableBoy in theaters February 21.

From Kingdom Story Company, the team behind JESUS REVOLUTION and THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER, and Lionsgate, the studio behind WONDER, comes THE UNBREAKABLE BOY. When his parents, Scott (Zachary Levi) and Teresa (Meghann Fahy), learn that Austin is both autistic and has brittle bone disease, they initially worry for their son’s future. But with Scott’s growing faith and Austin’s incredible spirit, they become “unbreakable,” finding joy, gratitude, and courage even in the most trying times — an extraordinary true story about a father and son learning together that every day can be the best day of your life! 

THE UNBREAKABLE BOY is releasing in theaters on February 21.

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Texas Kidnapping Target by Laura Scott // Review

Lucie's Review: 

When Mari's son's safety is threatened, her worst fears are confirmed when a Texas Ranger comes to her aid informing her that her ex has escaped from prison. 

Sam Hayward can't help but be drawn to Mari and her young son, Theo, as he helps to protect them from the ongoing threats. Mari is suspicious of Sam at first but quickly comes to trust him as he goes the distance to keep them safe. 

Suspense filled read, with well-developed characters, a great plot, strong themes of faith, and engaging relationship building. Theo is a sweet boy, and I liked how Sam and Theo bonded throughout this ordeal. Highly enjoyable, and well worth the read!

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

Squire of Truth by Jill Williamson // Just Read

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Squire of Truth by Jill Williamson, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Squire of Truth
Series: Blood of Kings: Legends #1
Author: Jill Williamson
Publisher: Sunrise Publishing
Release Date: January 7, 2025
Genre: Medieval Fantasy

Cole Tanniyn, squire to the soon-to-be king, has journeyed far from his days as a stray stable boy in a distant mountain village. Haunted by the echoes of past failures on the battlefield, he seeks solace in music, hoping to find belonging among fellow musicians. His quest leads him to Mistel Wepp, a spirited songstress determined to forge her own path on stage. 

For too long, Mistel has been bound by a past of confinement and control. Now on her own, she toils tirelessly to make her mark, but the struggle to earn a living in a world that fails to appreciate her talents proves exhausting. When she connects Cole with the future king and discovers he's a skilled lutist, she sees an opportunity to change her future. 

When a heinous crime leaves Mistel’s roommate dead, she turns to Cole for help. Despite his inexperience as an investigator, Cole vows to uncover the truth. Together, they delve into the dark alleys of Armonguard, uncovering a sinister web of secrets and sorcery that threatens the kingdom. As their journey unfolds, their shared love of music catches the attention of the king, who commissions them to compose a song for his upcoming wedding, offering a glimpse of normalcy amid adversity. Can Cole and Mistel prevail against enemies wielding dark magic? Or will they become the next casualties in a deadly game of power?

Blood of Kings: Legends
Book 1: Squire of Truth
Book 2: Lord of Winter
Book 3: Lady of Shadows
Book:4: Heir of Light

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Sunrise Publishing | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookBub

My Review: An exciting follow up to the award-winning Blood of Kings Trilogy by Jill Williamson. 

Cole Tanniyn is swept into a high-stakes investigation with implications reaching beyond and to the throne. Can he get to the bottom of the murder, despite his lack of experience, and can he trust his new friend Mistal?

A wonderful follow-up to a beloved series, with familiar faces, as well as new ones, full of adventure and mystery. Cole is a talented young man, who is loyal to the king, and devoted to his job. I liked how he and Mistal bonded over their love of music, as well as working towards finding answers behind the mysterious death. Cole is an excellent protagonist, with relatable struggles, as he finds his strength and style of leadership. 

Overall, this was such an exciting read, with a great plot and return to Er'Rets. I enjoyed the strong themes of faith, as well as seeing familiar characters through different eyes. A great start to a new series!

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

Jill Williamson writes fantasy and science fiction for teens and adults. She grew up in Alaska, staying up and reading by the summer daylight that wouldn't go away. This led to a love of books and writing, and her debut novel, By Darkness Hid, won several awards and was named a Best Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror novel of 2009 by VOYA magazine. She loves giving writing workshops and blogs for teen writers at www.GoTeenWriters.com, which has been named as one of Writer’s Digest’s “101 Best Websites for Writers.” She now lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two children.

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

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Squire of Truth & a $10 Gift Card to the Sunrise Shop!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight January 13, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on January 20, 2025. Winner 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!

Lethal Standoff by DiAnn Mills // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Carrington Reed is a hostage negotiator called into to help with a case where two brothers have taken 15 undocumented migrants hostage. She makes an unlikely alliance with an investigative reporter, Levi Ehrlich, and together they uncover a winding trail of treachery with secrets reaching back generations. 

 Levi and Carrington find themselves absorbed into this case, uncovering secrets and working to uncover the levels of deceit. A slower burn read, with great relationship building and solid themes of faith. I liked how Levi was a man of faith, committed to living what he believed, and I liked how he was supportive of Carrington throughout. 

There is a lot going on in this book, with more to the plot than meets the eye--but I can't tell you about that! The plot builds up as the story progresses and all the pieces start to fall into place. An entertaining read with an original plot. 

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

Ambush on the Ranch by Tina Wheeler // Just Read

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Ambush on the Ranch by Tina Wheeler, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Ambush on the Ranch
Series: Red Rock Country
Author: Tina Wheeler
Publisher: Harlequin Love Inspired Suspense
Release Date: December 24, 2024
Genre: Inspirational Romantic Suspense

Seeking ranch refuge…  

with lethal threats at every turn. 

After running for her life through the forest, art gallery owner Janel Newman wakes up in the hospital with no memory of the past forty-eight hours. A car bomb and masked gunman make it clear she must’ve seen something she shouldn’t have. When she's forced to hide at deputy sheriff Zach Walker’s family ranch along with her twin sister, secrets are uncovered, and a murderous conspiracy is revealed. With ruthless criminals dogging their every step, will Janel and Zach be able to thwart these villains’ plan to silence Janel for good?  

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

Lucie's Review: 

Zach Walker and his family are working hard to turn a profit on their family ranch, when he offers his ranch as a haven for Janel Newman who has become the target of a killer convinced that she saw something she shouldn't have. 

Janel wakes up in the hospital with no memory of the last days, all she knows is that all of her mother's paintings have been stolen along with a collection of original statues. Together, she and Zach must stay a step ahead of the attacker, who seems to know their every move. 

A high stakes suspense, full of drama, intrigue, with great character interaction. I liked that Zach wants to help Janel, and offers to let her stay with his family. He is very respectful of her space and her desire to help solve the mystery. I how welcoming Zach's family was, and how they all worked together to put a stop to the threats. 

Overall, an action packed read with a plot that had plenty going on, and kept me guessing. I loved that Zach and Janel where able to bond over their shared faith, and I enjoyed their interactions and problem solving teamwork. Highly enjoyable read!

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

Also Available

 

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About the Author

Tina Wheeler is a Publishers Weekly Bestselling Author and retired teacher. Although she grew up on the edge of the desert in Arizona, her favorite place to plot a new story is on a balcony overlooking the ocean. She enjoys spending time with her large extended family, brainstorming with writing friends, discovering new restaurants, and traveling with her husband.

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

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon digital gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight January 6, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on January 13, 2025. 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!

Nothing Good Starts with Your Best Friend's Brother by Rachel E. Scott // Review

My Review: 

A holiday friends-to-lovers rom-com, full of witty banter, humor and heart. 

 A quick and enjoyable read that brought a smile to my face. I loved the well-developed characters and charming storyline, that was everything I could have hoped for--bantering and flirty but also packing a punch emotionally with characters that I related to strongly, working through a period of life feeling "stuck." Dinah and Dawson are a great team, working together and unapologetically supportive of each other throughout. 

Overall, a highly enjoyable novella, with characters that stuck with me after the book was completed. A wonderful mix of heart, humor and holiday romance. Definitely worth picking up!

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

Pixels and Paint by Kristi Ann Hunter // Review

My Review : 

A charming opposites-attract Christian rom-com, about finding beauty in a different perspective. 

Emma Trinket is a tech savvy computer programmer who has never enjoyed her family's more artistic pastimes, always feeling like she never fit into the spaces that they made for her. Carter Anderson is a confident and talented artist, who doesn't enjoy the way that technology threatens to encroach on his sanctuary. But for all her high tech ways, Emma inspires him like no other. 

Emma is an endearing heroine, tired of fitting into pre-selected spaces and just getting by, but she doesn't know what else to do. I loved the wonder in her curiosity, and how she likes to know that why of the process. She has a different perspective that challenges Carter to try and see things through her eyes. 

Overall, a charming rom-com. Emma was easy to like and cheer for all the way through, quirky and nerdy in a sweet way. I'd never thought of the juxtaposition of classic art and new tech before, and it was fun seeing it all play out. Engaging read that brought of the best and worst of the characters in ways that helped them grow and find something worth fighting for!

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