M is for Manger by Crystal Bowman & Teri McKinley, Illustrated by Claire Keay ~ Review

My Review:

A delightful read, that goes through the entire alphabet all the while telling the story of Jesus' birth in chronological order, all the while keeping within the rhyming perimeters that the authors set for themselves.

The illustrations fit well with the story, and it makes for a great read-aloud book. I loved how each of the letters have a corresponding Bible verse!

Overall, this was a fun read, and definitely one that I would recommend, great for a read-aloud, or for easy reading for a kid just learning to read. I loved how it all came together, with the verses, and rhyming. It was so well done, one I would definitely 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."

Gather Around the Amish Table by Lucy Leid ~ Review

My Review:

A wonder book full of easy to make recipes, made from affordable ingredients.

Our family tried out three of the recipes, all of which turned out great, and are things that would could definitely see ourselves making again.

This was a lovely cookbook filled with full color photographs and little snippets from the author about each of the recipes and the stories behind them.

One nice thing about this cookbook is that there aren't a ton of weird expensive ingredients and everything is super easy to make. my favorite recipe was the one for the 8 minuted cheesecake, the only thin that I did differently was that I topped it with sugared pineapple and raspberries.

Overall, I thought it was a great cookbook, and I look forward to trying more of the recipes from Mrs. Leid and her family!

Creamy Chicken Casserole

Veggie Loaf

8 Minute Cheesecake

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."

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

About the book: 
Gather Around the Amish Table (MennoMedia, September 2015)

Straight from Amish kitchens to yours, this cookbook offers favorite family recipes and charming stories from Amish and Mennonite cooks.

Bake the pecan rolls that taste best after an ice-skating party, or try the hoagies that a community sold to help an Amishfamily with hospital bills. Discover the cocoa cupcakes with instructions to "stir by hand" that one young cook took literally, or whip up the whoopie pies that one Amish woman took to market in her horse and buggy.

These cherished recipes speak of comforting traditions, lively communities, and strong Christian faith. Gather your family around the table to sample the nourishing fare and trademark charm of the plain people. In the words of one cookbook contributor: "Bake someone happy!"

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1NfOVUi

About the author:

Lucy Leid is an Old Order Mennonite wife, mother, and cook in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.

Incorporate Amish cooking traditions this fall in your kitchen with Lucy Leid's Gather Around the Amish Table. Straight from Amish kitchens to yours, this cookbook offers favorite family recipes and charming stories from Amish and Mennonite cooks. Gather your family around the table to sample the nourishing fare and trademark charm of the plain people. In the words of one cookbook contributor: “Bake someone happy!”

Get your fall baking underway with an Amish baking basket giveaway from Lucy and MennoMedia!

 

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A copy of Gather Around the Amish Table
• An Amish baking basket full of goodies

 

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on September 29th. The winner will be announced September 30th on the Litfuse blog.

The Biggest Story: How the Snake Crusher Brings Us Back to the Garden by Kevin DeYoung and Illustrated by Don Clark ~ Review and Giveaway

My Review:

From Genesis to Revelation, Mr. DeYoung has written a new children's book that tells the story of us. From original sin in the garden, and through the many generations that bring us to Jesus Christ, and our restoration to  being able to walk beside God as we (the human race) did before sin.

It isn't often that a book comes along like this one, that not only tells the familiar parts of the Bible, but also drives home a deep and profound message, broken down and made for children to understated without losing any of the message.

At times the writing seems far too simple, but as I read through the book and enjoyed the vivid, and bright artwork, I came to appreciate and saw the reason that it was written in the style that it was.

I liked how this book stayed away from the graphic, yet didn't gloss over the subject of sin. It makes the message easy to understand, for children, while showing how the Bible points to our desperate need for a Savior, and how Jesus Christ fills that role as, warrior, priest, and king.

Overall, this book is fantastic. One that is enjoyable for both adults and children alike. I've read other reviews, and other blogger have mentioned that they were many parts of scripture that were left out, but I feel that it simply isn't realistic to expect this book to contain every single event in the Bible, and I think Mr. DeYoung chose well the ones that would best help to carry is message.  Not only a well thought out book, but also a stunning adventure in color and art, with the illustrations. I would highly recommend this book, it isn't a fluff piece meant solely to entertain, but a book with substance and merit, meant to spark discussions and make the reader think.


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."again

About the book:

Hardcover: 132 pages

Publisher: Crossway (August 31, 2015)

In The Biggest Story, Kevin DeYoung - a best-selling author and father of six - leads kids and parents alike on an exciting journey through the Bible, connecting the dots from the garden of Eden to Christ's death on the cross to the new heave and new earth.  With powerful illustrations by award-winning artist Don Clark, this imaginative retelling of the Bible's core message-how the Snake Crusher brings us back to the garden-will draw children into the biblicalstory, teaching them that God's promises are even bigger and better than we think.  

About Kevin DeYoung:

Kevin DeYoung is senior pastor at University Reformed Church in East Lansing, Michigan.  He blogs at the Gospel Coalition and has authored or coauthored numerous well-known books, including Just Do Something, The Hole in Our Holiness, Crazy Busy, and Taking God At His Word.  He lives with his wife and their 6 children in Central Michigan. 

About Don Clark:

Don Clark is an artist and the cofounder of Invisible Creature, a widely respected and award-winning design studio in Seattle that has worked with clients such as Target, Nike, LEGO, and WIRED magazine.  He lives with his wife and their 3 children, 4 goats, 12 chickens, and 1 crazy dog on a farm just outside the city limits. 

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Wolf Creek Widow by Penny Richards ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

After the death of her abusive husband, who was killed during a shootout. Ace Allen and his mother volunteer to stay with Meg while she recovers from her injuries.

Ace Allen didn't have an easy childhood, growing up as a "half-breed" he never felt that he fit in. He's loved Meg ever since he first saw her, but she was married to another man, and to make thing even more complicated, he's the man who shot her husband.

Will Meg be able to trust Ace with her future and to keep her safe?

Nita Allen is a wise woman, she encourages Meg to rest while also giving her things to do to help her feel busy and useful.

Ace is patient and kind, he knows that Meg isn't ready for a relationship and that she needs time to heal and needs him to show her that he will never hurt her. Ace there for her and helps her answer questions about her faith, and to get back to herself.

I loved how Ace bonded with Meg's kids, telling them stories in his father's Scottish brogue.

Overall, this is a great story with strong characters and great messages of faith and forgiveness.



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."

Wild West Brides by Lori Copeland ~ Review

Lucie's Review:


Will the three Claxton brothers find love?

In this three in one novel collection from best-selling author, Lori Copeland, Cole, Beau, and Cass meet their matches. Veterans of the Civil War, they proudly served their country, now they are on their way home to Missouri, to find themselves again, and return to civilian life after the war.

In the first story, The Peacemaker, Cole and Beau witness the robbing of a stagecoach and by the time they reach it, the robbers are gone. They find only a young woman, Wynne Elliot, holding a gun on them. Cole takes an instant dislike to her, but beau convinces her that they are good guys and invites her to stay with them when he finds that she has no where to go.

When Cole finds out that Wynne is looking for his youngest brother, Cass, he joins her, keeping his distance but in awe of her determination.

I loved the verbal sparring between Cole and Wynne, it was fun humorous read.

In the second story, Charity Burk, is alone on a homestead claim that she needs to prove up on, so she prays for a man. She looks out the window and sees a man being attacked by wolves, she rescues the man, but is then called away to help at a birthing. Two squaws show up, to care for the man, who's name is Beau, but they now think that he belongs to them! Will Charity be able to rescue him, not once, but twice?

In this story I like how Charity and Beau help each other out, and how they grow to care foe each other, and comes to terms with the second chance at love they are given.

To say that Cass ans Susanne are off to a rocky start, may be an understatement in the third story of the collection, has she tricks her father in to forcing Cass to marry her so that she can get out of Kansas to St. Louis, and six years later she is still up to her old tricks.

A humorous tale, as Cass and Susanne transport 9 orphans to Kansas. I liked how Cass bonded with the boys and taught them things about being a man.

Overall, a splendid collection of stories. Definitely plenty of fun for lovers of western 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."

Drawing Fire by Janice Cantore ~ Review

Astor's Review:

A serial killer is on the loose, targeting the elderly in Long Beach, CA. Her best lead is PI Luke Murphey who saw someone flee the crime scene.
Both Luke and Abby are linked by a mysterious restaurant fire that claimed her parents lives, many years ago. Could that somehow be connected to the current murders, and what will it take to unravel this case before more innocent people are killed.

This is a page turning thriller, nearly impossible to put down. I loved how Abby and Luke work together and discover their common goal and connection. Their interaction was natural, and well done, I loved how they came to depend on each other, and trust one another, throughout.

It was action packed and thrilling, with plenty going on. I'm so excited for this wonderful new series and where it will go. I will definitely be keeping my eyes out for the upcoming books in the series.

Overall, a wonderful book, well worth the read. I'd definitely recommend it to fans of Ms. Catore, as well as anyone who loves a good suspenseful read, with characters that you feel good about cheering for the entire way through!



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 Perfect Arrangement by Katie Ganshert ~ Review

My Review:

Amelia is the owner of a small town flower shop, she loves how it allows her to be a part of the big moments in people's lives. When her ex-boyfriend get's married, Amelia's curiosity get's the best of her, and she stalks his wedding driving slowly around the block. But her spying adventure takes a rather abrupt downward spiral when she accidentally rear ends a handsome wedding guest, named Nate Gallagher.

Their run in leads to an email correspondence where the talk about life, and classic movies.

But will their warm correspondence come to an end when Amelia finds out who Nate really is?

I love, love, loved this story, I read it in less than 2 hours, after I downloaded it to my kindle. I just couldn't put it down for anything. I found myself immediately drawn into the story and invested in their lives.

Amelia loves her job, and grew up like a modern day Cinderella, two Barbie step-sisters and all. She want's to please, and want's to do what's right. I loved her from the beginning and just knew that she was the kind of heroine that I could cheer for all the way through.

Nate is a dreamboat, classy and classic, a gentleman to the core, he has a deep appreciation for classic movies and relaxed personality that doesn't long for the newest hottest gadget. I loved how the stories progressed through emails, and how open and honest he was about his love of procrastination.

Overall, a fantastic story that you won't want to miss, it hit's all the right notes for a romance, and I couldn't keep from smiling. My only objection is that I will probably never find out why the number 24 is so special to Nate...I wonder if there are some clues that I missed...it's not like I can't read the book again! 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."

Silver in the Blood by Jessica Day George ~ Review

My Review:


Dacia and Loulou are cousins, best friends, and practically sisters. In the face of a minor scandal, Dacia is sent ahead to Romania where Loulou and her family will later joining them as they visit their mother's family there, but things are not what they seem. Everyone seems to be on edge, and the tension is rising, but the girls can't figure out why, yet strange men are watching them, and stranger words are exchanged. What are The Claw and The Wing, and what does it have to do with them?

As they dig deeper into their mothers's family, they uncover a family secret, and daunting prophecy, that will change the rest of their lives forever. Who can they turn to, when their family is against them? Will they be able to find their destiny by bucking family tradition and following their hearts?

This lavish tale set in Romania of the later 1800's, is a very different and darker tale than Ms. Day's previous novels, as it strays from retelling more traditional lore, and delving into a world of vampires,  werewolves, and more. It is brought to life by both Dacia and Loulou, through their eyes, and also through their diaries and correspondences, which at first felt confusing, as I didn't know who was who and what was going on. I eventually got used to the style, but I think it made it harder to get into the story as fast as I would have liked.

After I had finished the book, I wasn't quite sure if I actually liked the story as a whole. I'm a huge fan of this author, having read and fallen in love her previous novels, Dragon Slippers, Dragon Flight, Dragon Spear, Sun and Moon, Ice and Snow, Princess of the Midnight Ball, as well as her absolutely delightful Castle Glower Series, but this one was different, and just didn't connect with me, or do much for me in general.

Content wise, even though it wasn't explicit in detail, the amount of nudity was a bit of a shock to me. The language was clean, though there was one instance of a word that could be taken the wrong way even though it was used in the proper context. But there was one scene where a rape was threatened.

Overall, I found this book to have many good qualities, like the positive themes of friendship, and thinking for one's self, and fighting for what's right, as well as forgiveness, and love. But other things made me wary and though not as dark as it could have definitely gone so much farther, I found it to be a book that left me very untouched, and just kinda like, "Well, that was interesting. I don't think it's something I would 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."

Falling Like Snowflakes by Denise Hunter ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Eden and her young son Micah are on the run, going by new names and starting over in a new town. Micah hasn't spoken a word since the event that sent their life reeling, and put them on the run.
They find a refuge in Summer Harbor, working for Beau Callahan, a Christmas Tree farm owner, caring for his injured aunt. Beau bonds with Micah, and wonders what the woman he knows only as Kate is running from. Will he be able to help them escape the nightmares of their past?

To say that relationships are a bit complicated would be terrific understatement. There are multiple characters, and quite a bit going on, with all of the Beau's brothers who I believe we will be seeing much more of in future books. Throughout the book I couldn't help feeling like things just would never go Paige's way, she is such a sweet young woman, but the timing is all wrong for her right now.

Beau's aunt is quite character, and one of the funniest, and most interesting. I often found myself frustrated though by Beau's indecision, I mean I can see the reasoning, yet it would have been nice if he was more assertive. I did like the dialogue though, and the way that he bonded with Micah and Eden, and how their friendship developed.

Overall, slow to start, but a good if slightly complicated read. I loved the setting and how little Micah was actually a very expressive child, even though he chose not to talk. A complex storyline sure to thrill fans of Ms. Hunter's previous novels.


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."

Rodeo Rescue by Lynette Eason ~ Review

Lucie's Review:


Lynette Eason, rodeos, and mystery, what more could I ask for?

When Seth finds a strange man in the storage room, he kicks him out, inadvertently saving Tonya, the rodeo clown from her ex-boyfriend that she has been on the run from for some time.
When Tonya tells him what's going on, Seth becomes determined to help her in any way that he can.

Will they be able to put a stop to harassment?

Seth is a good man who, wants to do everything in his power to help Tonya catch her stalker, so she won't have to run anymore. I loved how his family welcome Tonya with open arms.

Tonya is a strong woman, who loves her job protecting the cowboys, but she can't help but think that she might be better off leaving everyone alone, so that nobody will get hurt.

Overall, a terrific read with amazing dialogue, and fresh and interesting premise and setting. I loved the support and love they had from family and friends, and how the relationship progressed naturally. A fast paced book full of wonderful twists that had be guessing.



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."