REMEMBERING CHRISTY….

With Suzanne Woods Fisher

 

See Video Here

 

MY REVIEW 

Christy (50th Anniversary Edition) (Evergreen Farm, October 2017)
New edition of Catherine Marshall’s inspirational classic!
The train taking nineteen-year-old teacher Christy Huddleston from her home in Asheville, North Carolina, might as well be transporting her to another world. The Smoky Mountain community of Cutter Gap feels suspended in time, trapped by poverty, superstitions, and century-old traditions.
But as Christy struggles to find acceptance in her new home, some see her — and her one-room school — as a threat to their way of life. Her faith is challenged and her heart is torn between two strong men with conflicting views about how to care for the families of the Cove.
Yearning to make a difference, will Christy’s determination and devotion be enough?
Learn more, get a free map of Cutter Gap, and purchase a copy.

My thoughts on this book

I so much enjoyed reading this 50th Anniversary of the classic and so well written book Christy. Catherine Marshall was a master storyteller, and with this book, wrote the story about her mother, making this an even more intriguing read. In Christy, as Ms. Marshall’s own mother left home at the age of 19, moving to North Carolina Mountains, so did main fictional character Christy Huddleston. Fulfilling a need in her own life, Christy gives up her own life of luxury to a life of hard labor under the most difficult of circumstances in order to do her mission.

As the Mountain people grew in Christy, so they did on my as well. They took primitive to a whole new level, the true meaning of primitive. I never knew the horrible, horrific life these people lived. At some times I had to skim over the worst of it. But this is a book everyone should read. It will sure leave you being so very thankful for what you have. These were hard people living a hard difficult life. But in the mist of it all, there was such a hunger for learning, and it was so wonderful to read this. There is so much in this book there is no way to start describing it all. So I highly recommend Christy to everyone! This is a book that everyone needs to read at least once in their lifetime! However there is one thing that is just so sad, and I can’t get it off my mind. And that it, with all the death these people were forced to endure, the preacher there could not answer their questions about what happened after death. And where their loved one was now that they were gone. So sad that people hungry for answers and for the truth, they couldn’t find it in the man sent there to tell them about Jesus.

I received this book from Litfuse to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.

 

Dangerous Illusions by Irene Hannon

Trish Bailey is on overload trying to deal with a demanding job, an ailing mother, and a healing heart. When a series of unsettling memory lapses leads to a tragic death–and puts Trish under police scrutiny–her world is once again thrown into turmoil.

Detective Colin Flynn isn’t certain what to think of the facts he uncovers during his investigation. Did Trish simply make a terrible mistake or is there more to the case than meets the eye? As he searches for answers, disturbing information begins to emerge–and if the forces at work are as evil as he suspects, the situation isn’t just dangerous . . . it’s deadly.

Bestselling and award-winning author Irene Hannon captures readers with a mind-bending story that will have them doubling back to retrace their steps–and figure out what they missed!

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR 

The Apologetics Study Bible, The Christian Standard Bible Translation

The Apologetics Study Bible
A unique resource designed to help people answer important, life-shaping questions. Here is a wealth of knowledge at your fingertips to help you know the reasons and evidences for Christian hope and articulate those reasons to others asking the big questions. This app includes the complete Holman Christian Standard Bible with footnotes and cross references in the Olive Tree BibleReader.

Includes:
Introductions and notes for each book of the Bible
More than 130 articles written by today’s leading Christian thinkers on topics such as
Twisted Scripture notes on commonly misunderstood and distorted verses
Biographical sketches and Christian apologists
Fast Facts
Notable Quotes
Challenges and Tactics
and more.
Contributors include:
Ted Cabal
Craig L. Blomberg
William A. Dembski
Norman L. Geisler
Josh McDowell
Lee Strobel
and more than 50 others.
Features include:
Split screen viewing with Bible text
Add bookmarks, highlights, and personal notes to Bible text
Quick, powerful search
Customizable colors, fonts, and more
Access to a library of titles through Olive Tree

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

I really like this Apologetic Study Bible is a great addition to my Bible Study tools. It helps be to understand how the Bible and science can work together. And it helps to strengthen my faith because it proves what I believe with facts and It answers question on why people say the Bible contradicts itself.

There are many tools in this Bible that are so helpful, but to me all of the many articles were interesting to me and in these wide range of articles I am still reading and learning more than I ever imagined from this Bible. These articles were written by the most well know apologist, theologians and scholars, many names you will surely recognize.

Oh and I can’t forget to mention the twisted scripture explanations that explain verses that are misused by so many people. And I can go on and on about the many other tools that have already been helpful to me, and will continue to help in my knowledge of the scriptures.

I received this book from B&H Publishers to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR 

 

Justice Delayed by Patricia Bradley

ABOUT THIS BOOK 

During Garrett Addison’s first week on the job as a criminal investigator for the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, his team is called out to a murder scene of a young girl. She’s the third victim in a string of disappearances with one thing in common–a Polaroid photo of each victim left behind at the crime scene.

The FBI is pulled into the case to help, and Garrett finds himself working with Special Agent Jordan Lambert, the woman he once loved. When yet another girl dies–number six–Garrett blames himself and believes he doesn’t have what it takes to be an agent. What he’ll discover is that, while he may be done with the killer, the killer is not done with him–or Jordan.

Bestselling and award-winning author Lisa Harris unveils an unforgettable story of a case that has haunted the public and law enforcement for more than a decade. Fans of the Nikki Boyd Files will thrill to finally discover what actually happened to Nikki’s sister, Sarah. New readers will become instant fans after devouring this chilling tale.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR 

The Gift of the Inn by Golden Keys Parsons

Despite her best efforts to go through the motions and the good fortune to have a husband stationed stateside rather than in the midst of the brutal combat unfolding in Europe and the Pacific, Christmas Eve is a less than festive time for innkeeper Naomi Lockhart. It’s been especially hard since she, her husband, Quenton, and their daughters restored her parents’ Colorado boarding house and turned it into a charming inn. Residing in the setting of the tragedy and haunted by a heartbreaking and terrible loss, Naomi can’t help but relive the Christmas Eve so many years ago when her infant child disappeared without a trace.

Gracie brushed aside comments about how little she resembled her parents for most of her life without really understanding why they made her feel so odd. A slip of the tongue by her grandmother brings the discovery that the people who raised her are not her birth parents and acts as a catalyst for the start of a search for her real identity. After a whirlwind romance with a young, Europe-bound GI and subsequent elopement in defiance of her affluent, traditional parents, Gracie flees Texas for Colorado, following one of the few clues that she has about her real identity. She finds herself alone and working as a waitress in blizzard-prone Colorado Springs, Colorado at the end of her pregnancy. Snow bound, she struggles to bring her child into the world as she becomes ever more confident that the innkeeper from across the road, who acts as a midwife of necessity, may hold the answers she seeks. Meanwhile, her wounded husband desperately tries to reach her side.

Set against the backdrop of the Second World War, this final novel from beloved writer Golden Keyes Parsons is an engaging story of love, loss and reunion.

Home, Hearth and Holidays by Melody Carlson

ABOUT THIS BOOK 

With holidays approaching in the charming town of Appleton, and Daphne Ballinger’s deadline to “get hitched” drawing closer, Daphne finds herself happily distracted with the unexpected tasks of “motherhood” Young Mabl is enjoying the attention, but the clock is ticking and unless love comes her way, Daphne’s delightful life will start unraveling by spring.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR 

Love Held Captive by Shelley Shepard Gray

Book Description

After the War Between the States, a Confederate officer longs to heal the heart of a beautiful woman—but first he’ll have to right the wrongs that were done to her.

Major Ethan Kelly has never been able to absolve himself of the guilt he feels for raiding a woman’s home shortly before he was taken prisoner during the Civil War. He is struggling to get through each day until he once again crosses paths with Lizbeth Barclay—the very woman he is trying to forget.

Life after the war is not much different for former Captain Devin Monroe until he meets Julianne VanFleet. He knows she is the woman he’s been waiting for, but he struggles to come to terms with the sacrifices she made to survive the war.

When Ethan and Devin discover that their former colonel, Adam Bushnell, is responsible for both Lizbeth’s and Julianne’s pain, they call on their former fellow soldiers to hunt him down. As the men band together to earn the trust of the women they love, Lizbeth and Julianne seek the justice they deserve in a country longing to heal.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

I love The Lone Star Hero’s Series by Shelley Shepard Gray! I didn’t think she could get any better than writing her Amish books but I believe she did with this series!

Major Ethan Kelly had a difficult job in the war because his kind heart had trouble doing things he had to do for his men to survive. After returning from the war, he meets the one lady he still dreams about because he ordered his men to take what was left of her supplies to feed his men.

Captain Devin Monroe finalky meets the woman he has been waiting for but when he learns the sacrifices she made in order to survive during the war he is having a difficult time dealing with her past.

And then Ethan and Devin discover that their former colonel, Adam Bushnell is responsible for both of these ladies and devastating past.

Love Held Captive is a story full of tension and emotion, so much so that I couldn’t put the book down for long. The raw feelings of men and life after war, and women who were left behind to survive were so strong those feelings jumped from the pages as I read. And as much as these two men cared about the ladies God brought into their lives, they all had so much to deal with before a relationship could happen. And I certainly pray that there are no men like Adam Bushnell leading our men in the military, but with so many, we just never know. How one man could justify himself to do what he did. But again there are all kinds of people in the world. But in this book, Ms. Gray does an amazing job of throwing all of these situations out there throughout the book, some good, some so very tragic, and then weaving them all together and giving readers an amazing story of love and forgiveness, restoration and redemption, helping us realize just how God is with us, even in the times we think He’s no where to be found!

I received this book from BookLook Bloggers to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR 

Shelley Shepard Gray lives in southern Ohio and writes full time. A busy wife and mother of two, she spends her days writing and keeping track of her two teenagers. Her two dogs keep her company when she writes in her basement.

Shelley enjoys writing about the Amish and visits Amish communities in Adams and Holmes counties several times a year. When not spending time with her family or writing, she serves on several committees in her church.

She also bakes a lot, loves coconut cream pie, and will hardly ever pull weeds, mow the yard, or drive in the snow.

Shelley also spends a lot of time on line! Please visit her website, http://www.shelleyshepardgray.com to find out her latest news…or become her friend on FaceBook.

A Song Unheard by Roseanna White

About the Book

Title: A Song Unheard

Author: Roseanna M. White

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Release Date: January 2, 2018

Willa Forsythe is both a violin prodigy and top-notch thief, which makes her the perfect choice for a crucial task at the outset of World War I—to steal a cypher from a famous violinist currently in Wales.

Lukas De Wilde has enjoyed the life of fame he’s won—until now, when being recognized nearly gets him killed. Everyone wants the key to his father’s work as a cryptologist. And Lukas fears that his mother and sister, who have vanished in the wake of the German invasion of Belgium, will pay the price. The only light he finds is meeting the intriguing Willa Forsythe.

But danger presses in from every side, and Willa knows what Lukas doesn’t—that she must betray him and find that cypher, or her own family will pay the price as surely as his has.

Click here to purchase your copy!

 

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

 

I love the first book in this series and I love A Song Unheard! I am so happy that Willa Forsythe is given her own compelling story. Being a member of Rosemary and Barclay and the rest of the adopted family of thieves, Willa’s unique love and skills of playing the violin land her in positions that are far wanting and needing to be told.

Willa herself is a very strong characters and I have grown to love her supporting characters as much as I do Willa. A Song Unheard is a story of love and forgiveness, restoration and redemption, with vivid historical details of London and WW1 will have lovers of historical fiction waiting to read this beautiful story. And since I love music and play the piano, I love the musical side of this story. Ms. Whites does a magically wonderful job of weaving her love for music into this story. As well as her faith in God, which is so beautifully woven through the lives of the characters.

I’m looking forward to Barclay’s story in the third book in this series. I hope this storyline continues with more stories of this unique family. What intrigues me most about this series is the adopted family of urchins, and though they be thieves, they are doing what they know to survive after being abandoned at early ages to a life in their own. A family you will grow to love as you read their stories. I encourage you to pick up a copy of A Song Unheard, which can be read as a stand alone. But reading the first book in this series, A Name Unknown would make the story so much more enjoyable.

A copy of this book was provided by Celebration Lit Tours and the author for me to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are mine only.

 

About the Author

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

Guest post from Roseanna White

I started playing the piano when I was 7. I didn’t discover any long-dormant genius or anything, but I liked it. When my sister quit, I kept playing. In middle school, I switched teachers, and moving from the lady at my church that I knew so well to someone who was just my piano teacher made a difference in how I applied myself. It deepened my love of music.

We all know how some random moments stand out forever in our memory. One such for me happened on the school bus. I was sitting with my best friend, talking about the new piano piece I was learning. “Via Delorosa” means Road of Sorrow, and it’s a song that tells musically about Jesus’ journey to Golgotha—ending with the faint chime of the nails being driven into his palms. As my beloved Mrs. Peto went through this song with me the night before, I remember her circling a D♯ that I’d missed and saying how important that note was. That it made the whole line weep.

That it would make the hearers weep. An epiphany so huge I had to share it with my friend. A well placed sharp could make music weep! Who knew?

That was but one lesson Mrs. Peto taught me in how music could evoke things words never could. A woman of strong faith, she also taught me how a song could preach the Gospel. Music can be medicine. It can be hope. It can be tears. It can be truth. Music can be Jesus to a hurting heart that turns its back on words.

This is a lesson I never forgot, and I had it always in mind as I was writing A Song Unheard. In this story, both my hero and heroine are musicians—violinists. But Willa (who is SO STUBBORN) wouldn’t listen to words of faith from any of the people in her life “suddenly spouting such nonsense.”

But then, in her darkest hour, she hears a slip of melody. And she realizes it’s the Lord.

I pray as readers move through the story of Willa Forsythe—violin prodigy and top-notch thief—that their spirits’ ears hear more than words, more than just a story. I pray they hear the Lord whispering that ultimate song. The one that says, “I love you.”

Want to hear the song Willa eventually wrote in the book? You can! The violin music in this trailer is officially dubbed “Willa’s Song” and written specifically for this book. I hope you enjoy it! http://bit.ly/ASongUnheardTrailer

 

Blog Stops

Fiction Aficionado, January 11

History, Mystery & Faith, January 11

Genesis 5020, January 11

Bookworm Mama, January 11

A Simply Enchanted Life, January 11

Avid Reader Book Reviews, January 12

Reflections From My Bookshelves, January 12

Blogging With Carol, January 12

Multifarious, January 12

proud to be an autism mom, January 12

Faithfully Bookish, January 13

Christian Bookaholic, January 13

Karen Sue Hadley, January 13

Mary Hake, January 13

A Greater Yes, January 13

Remembrancy, January 14

Blossoms and Blessings, January 14

Just the Write Escape, January 14

Connie’s History Classroom, January 14

Texas Book-aholic, January 14

A Reader’s Brain, January 15

Rachel’s Back Talk, January 15

Smiling Book Reviews, January 15

Cordially Barbara, January 15

Pursuing Stacie, January 15

The Fizzy Pop Collection, January 16

Kat’s Corner Books, January 16

The Artist Librarian, January 16

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, January 16

Bigreadersite, January 16

Mommynificent, January 17

Seasons of Opportunities, January 17

Moments Dipped in Ink, January 17

Baker Kella, January 17

Black ‘n’ Gold Girl’s Book Spot, January 17

God’s Little Bookworm, January 18

allofakindmom, January 18

The Important Things in Life: God, Books, & Chocolate, January 18

Inklings and notions, January 18

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 18

Pause for Tales, January 19

Have A Wonderful Day, January 19

Just Commonly, January 19

Bibliophile Reviews , January 19

Janices book reviews, January 19

Radiant Light, January 20

The Power of Words , January 20

Book by Book, January 20

CAC Devourer, January 20

Jeanette’s Thoughts, January 20

Splashes of Joy, January 21

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, January 21

Neverending Stories, January 21

Faery Tales Are Real, January 21

A Baker’s Perspective, January 21

margaret kazmierczak, January 22

The PhD Mamma, January 22

Cafinated Reads, January 22

Daysong Reflections, January 22

Romances of the Cross, January 23

Purposeful Learning, January 23

Rachel Scott McDaniel, January 23

Carpe Diem, January 23

Simple Harvest Reads, January 23

Kaylee’s Kind Of Writes, January 24

Henry Happens, January 24

Joy of Reading, January 24

Tell Tale Book Reviews, January 24

Raining Butterfly Kisses, January 24

 

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Roseanna is giving away a Grand Prize Package of a signed copy of the book as well as a lovely album of soothing songs based on the Scriptures called Hidden in My Heart (winner’s choice of CD or digital download)!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/c72aIt can be truth. Music can be Jesus to a hurting heart that turns its back on words.

 

A Courtship on Huckleberry Hill by Jennifer Beckstrand

About the Book

Title: A Courtship on Huckleberry Hill

Author: Jennifer Beckstrand

Genre: Christian Amish Fiction

Release Date: December 26, 2017

Elsie Helmuth’s plain-spoken ways got her in trouble once before, so she needs to make a good impression at her new teaching job. But she’s not about to let disabled student Wally Sensenig work below his potential. And she definitely won’t put up with his hot-headed older brother sabotaging her efforts, no matter how handsome he is. . .

Sam is nearly at the end of his rope caring for his ailing, widowed mother, working their farm, and raising his siblings. He’ll admit Elsie’s ideas are bringing Wally out of his angry shell—but why does she have to be as stubborn as she is pretty? Yet as it turns out, Elsie has taught Sam something about himself as well. And he’ll do whatever it takes to make up for his mistakes—and win her heart forever.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

I love Jennifer Beckstrand’s Huckleberry Hill Series! And I am so glad she is continuing with Anna and Felty’s matchmaking skills. A Courtship on Huckleberry Hill continues with Anna trying to bring granddaughter Elsa Helmuth and Sam Sensenig together, but their efforts seem to be blocked at every angle. And Sam Sensenig certainly is not interested in Anna and Felty’s granddaughter. Especially since she is probably 40 years old and nothing close to attractive. Oh, what Sam doesn’t know will sure surprise him!

That Jennifer Beckstrand can write so many books about Essentially the same thing, is in itself intriguing! Each story written about the matchmaking of 80+year old Anna and Felty Helmuth is just do sweet and interesting, full of adventure and faith, you have to love them. And Anna and Felty are the grandma and granddaddy everyone wish for. And I was blessed to have such grandparents, as well as having parents that were such grandparents to our children. Maybe thats why I love this entire series so much!

I love Else’s strong and determined personality and Sam’s storming into the schoolroom to let Else have a piece of his mind was humorous in itself. Sam’s attitude makes me smile because I know several young men with just the same attitude. This book obviously relates to me a lot. These along with the many other scenes, humorous and serious are reasons you want to be sure and read this new installment in the Huckleberry Hill series! You will sure not be disappointed!

A copy of this book was provided by Celebration Lit Tours and the author for me to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are mine only.

 

 

Click here to purchase your copy.

About the Author

Jennifer Beckstrand is the RITA-nominated, award-winning Amish romance author of The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hillseries and The Honeybee Sisters series for Kensington Books. Her much-anticipated Amish series, The Honeybee Sisters, has created a lot of romantic buzz. Sweet as Honey received a starred review from Publisher’s Weekly and Sweet as Honey and A Bee in her Bonnet were both awarded Top Picks from RT Book Reviews. Jennifer has always been drawn to the strong faith and the enduring family ties of the Plain people and loves writing about the antics of Anna and Felty Helmuth and the Honeybee sisters’aendi Bitsy. Jennifer has a degree in mathematics and a passion for Jane Austen and Shakespeare. She and her husband have been married for thirty-three years, and she has six children and six adorable grandchildren, whom she spoils rotten.

Guest Post from Jennifer Beckstrand

I have a very special place in my heart for teachers. My dad was a high school math teacher. My mother taught second grade for over twenty years. My son-in-law taught choir in high school, and my daughter taught seventh-grade science. Another daughter taught American history labs at the university and still another daughter taught classes for a youth summer program.

Elsie Stutzman is a dedicated teacher who was dismissed from her last teaching job in Ohio and is trying to make a fresh start and a good impression in Bonduel, Wisconsin. Unfortunately one of her students, Wally Sensenig, is making things difficult for her, and Wally’s hot-headed older brother seems determined to get her fired. But Elsie is a dedicated teacher, too stubborn to back down and too steadfast to give up on anybody.

Elsie’s grandparents, Anna and Felty Helmuth, have other plans for her. They want her to fall in love with one of the local boys, but they’re finding it a little difficult to get the two young people together.

Teachers have an immense impact on our lives. We all remember a favorite elementary school teacher who inspired a love of learning or a high school teacher who encouraged us to reach for greatness. One of my favorite teachers was Mrs. Zobell, who taught ninth grade English. I distinctly remember her reading “The Outsiders” out loud to our class. She had a way of making great books and great stories come to life, and she sparked a love of reading (and writing) that I will always be grateful for. The teacher who had the most impact on my life is my dad. He helped me through Calculus in high school and inspired me to major in math in college.

I hope we will take the time this month to thank the teachers in our lives for all they do for us and all they do for our kids.

Who was one of your favorite teachers and why?

Blog Stops

Christian Bookaholic, January 16

proud to be an autism mom, January 16

Blossoms and Blessings, January 16

Reading Is My SuperPower, January 17

Mommynificent, January 17

Avid Reader Book Reviews, January 17

Bibliophile Reviews, January 18

Chas Ray’s Book Nerd Corner, January 18

The Power of Words, January 18

Multifarious, January 19

A Greater Yes, January 19

Texas Book-aholic, January 20

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, January 20

Karen Sue Hadley, January 21

Splashes of Joy, January 21

A Reader’s Brain, January 22

Mary Hake, January 22

Southern Gal Loves to Read, January 23

SusanLovesBooks, January 23

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 24

Janices book reviews, January 24

Jeanette’s Thoughts, January 25

Carpe Diem, January 25

Quiet Quilter, January 26

margaret kazmierczak, January 26 (Interview)

cherylbbookblog, January 27

Red Headed Book Lady, January 27

Pink Granny’s Journey, January 27

A Baker’s Perspective, January 28

Simple Harvest Reads, January 28 (Guest post from Mindy Houng)

Pursuing Stacie, January 28

Because I said so- and other adventures in parenting., January 29

Vicky Sluiter, January 29

Bigreadersite, January 29

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Jennifer is giving away a $10 Amazon gift card to three winners!! https://promosimple.com/ps/c6cf

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!

 

The Melody of the Soul Review Giveaway and Facebook Live

Travel back in time to 1943 and meet Anna Zadok, a Jewish Christian and concert violinist whose career is ended because of Nazi occupation in Prague. Don’t miss the new historical novel, The Melody of the Soul, by Liz Tolsma. Though musical instruments have been declared illegal, Anna defiantly continues to play the violin. But Officer Horst Engel, quartered in Anna’s flat and dissatisfied with German ideology, enjoys her soothing music. When Anna and her grandmother face deportation, Horst risks everything to protect them.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

The Melody of the Soul is an emotional, heartbreaking read, but yet interesting as we meet Violinist Anna Zadok, a Christian Jew, and her grandmother. With the Nazi’s occupation in Prague, Anna and her grandmother lost family, and Anna lost the right to play her beloved violin. When Nazi officer Horst Engel hears Anna play, enjoys the music so much he makes a way for her to keep playing.

As one that plays several musical instruments, I always enjoy books where music has such a huge part in the lives of its characters, as did this book. And the soft side of a Nazi officers love of music was a special touch to the story as well. The characters are well developed as the story progresses. And the author does a fantastic job of weaving the beautiful historical scenes of Praque and the horrors and graphics of WWll, making an enjoyable read for everyone. If you love WWll stories, This is one you want to check out!

I received this book from Litfuse to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.

 

 

 

 

 

Join Liz Tolsma and other bookworms for a Facebook Live event on February 6, plus enter to win Liz’s prize pack giveaway!

One grand prize winner will receive:

• One copy of The Melody of the Soul
• A garnet bracelet
• A box of Czech Republic chocolate

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on February 6. The winner will be announced at Liz’s Facebook Live Party. RSVP for a chance to connect with Liz and other readers, as well as for a chance to win other prizes!

RSVP today and spread the word-tell your friends about the giveaway and Facebook Live party via social media and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 6th!

Son of Promise by Caryl McAdoo

About the Book

Title: Son of Promise

Author: Caryl McAdoo

Genre: Woman’s Fiction

Be it known, your sins will find you out, but God’s mercy endureth forever!

Can a wife find the grace to forgive when her husband’s withheld the truth?

Travis Buckmeyer has a secret son, and the morning’s come to tell his sweet wife. He hates breaking Emma Lee’s heart. She promised him one ten years ago, but hasn’t been blessed to carry a baby to term. Every miscarriage made the telling harder, but now his clock’s run out. He’s going for his son, praying he won’t lose her.

 Click here to purchase your copy!

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

When I first started this book I didn’t think I would like it, but after the first few chapters, it just got better and better! This is my first book by Caryl McAdoo so I did’s know what to expect, and I love, love it!  Travis Buckmeyer loves his wife very much but he still has a secret son he has kept secret from her. Now the time has come that his passed life has to be revealed. What will his current wife say? Or think about this situation Travis is in?

Travis and his wife were an awesome couple. Though they has some reservations, they were eager to pick his son up from the detention home. This young boy didn’t know how his life would change, and for the better. And after they had him for a while, I was amazed at Emma Lee. She was getting very attached to Cody and him her. I enjoyed watching Cody working on the farm, and Cody helping Emma Lee. And Cody’s attitude changed for the better as well.

This is sweet story of what love, forgiveness is suppose to be like. Travis and Emma Lee had a love for the Lord that all Christians need. Their willingness to follow what the Lord wanted them to do, no matter what it was. Cody ended up being a very blessed young  man, and you could see it all over his face. I loved watching Cody grow spiritually blessed! Now I want to put these three on my prayer list! This is a wonderfully written story and I appreciate the ending.

A copy of this book was provided by Celebration Lit Tours and the author for me to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are mine only.

 

About the Author

Caryl McAdoo prays her story brings God glory, and a quick scroll through her novels’ rankings by Christian readers attests to the Father’s faithfulness. She loves writing almost as much as singing the new songs He gives her—look her up on YouTube to hear a few. Her high school sweetheart husband won her heart fifty-two years ago, and now they share four children and seventeen grandsugars. Ron and Caryl live in the woods south of Clarksville, seat of Red River County in far Northeast Texas, waiting expectantly for God to open the next door.

Guest Post from Caryl McAdoo

SON OF PROMISE—a companion story to my Texas Romance Family Saga’s book ten CHIEF OF SINNERS—features Travis and Emma Lee Buckmeyer, who readers first meet in CHIEF. She’s the sister of its heroine Sandy Harris, and he is a friend of its hero Buddy Nightingale; he’s also the son of Crockett Buckmeyer (from book eight COVERING LOVE) and grandson of Patrick Henry Buckmeyer (hero of book one VOW UNBROKEN).

A standalone, it isn’t necessary for readers to know all these ancestors to enjoy SON OF PROMISE, but those who do will surely love it all the more. What I know is that this couple won a chunk of my heart. Their faith is outstanding and their love inspiring. In the ’40s, Emma Lee didn’t have the fertility options young women do today, and miscarriage after miscarriage left her hurting. That’s why he hadn’t told her.

He didn’t want to hurt her, but circumstances had changed, and time was up. She had to be told that morning he already had a son born from a one night liaison thirteen years before because he was leaving to claim his Cody from a reform school and bring him home.

The boy had never known real love, but I loved him from the first. Forced to grow up way too fast—lying, stealing, and participating in most any other rebellious act—he’s missed so much. He’s overwhelmed with Travis and Emma Lee—their home, their partnership and love for each other, and their generosity toward him.

He planned to light out from the start, but days piled on top each other, and he never pulled the trigger.

In VOW UNBROKEN, there was an awesome canine named Blue Dog, and I went into his POV (Point Of View—got into his head) a couple of times. My Simon & Schuster editor ‘requested’ that I lose those segments, and so I did. But in this novel, I get into a canine’s head again . . . I’m hoping readers will find that fun.

In years past, I owned, managed, and milked a herd of eighty-plus dwarf goats and loved their Great Pyrenees guardians, so it was fun to include them in the story. I love how Emma Lee was able to sell her paintings for exorbitant prices, but remained so humble and unassuming. And that she and Travis opened their home (they’re so much like my husband and me) to total strangers. We’ve had so many people live with us over the years, to help them, be blessings—the hands and feet of God in the earth.

I pray my story gives God glory and that its readers will be drawn closer to Him through it. He blesses me and highly favors me daily. I can’t thank or praise Him enough!

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, January 18

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, January 18

Christian Author, J.E.Grace Blog, January 19

Splashes of Joy, January 19

Karen Sue Hadley , January 20

Maureen’s Musings, January 20

proud to be an autism mom, January 21

Bibliophile Reviews, January 21

Reading is My SuperPower, January 22 (Interview)

A Greater Yes, January 22

Texas Book-aholic, January 23

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 23

Baker kella, January 24

Janices book reviews, January 24

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, January 25

Jeanette’s Thoughts, January 25

Quiet Quilter, January 26

Carpe Diem, January 26

C Jane Read, January 27

A Baker’s Perspective, January 27

Simple Harvest Reads, January 28 (Guest post from Mindy Houng)

Pursuing Stacie, January 28

Red Headed Book Lady, January 29

margaret kazmierczak, January 29

cherylbbookblog, January 30

Bigreadersite, January 30

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 31

Avid Reader Book Reviews, January 31

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Caryl is giving away

GRAND PRIZE : $50 Amazon Gift Card
1st Prize: Choice-of-Caryl’s Titles (print or ebook)
2nd-4th: ebook of SON OF PROMISE!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/c511

 

Food for Thought by Janet Lynn Mitchell

About the Book

Title: Food for Thought

Author: Janet Lynn Mitchell

Genre: Non-Fiction, Self-Help

Release Date: December 1, 2017

Food for Thought is filled with personalized verses just for you. It’s been written to help you claim God’s Word as your own. The thoughts included within the verses are from fellow dieters. Food for Thought is not meant to be a substitute for actual Scripture, but an addition, bringing you new insight, perspective, hope and encouragement as you move toward and reach your weight-loss goal. Blank pages have been placed in the back so that you can add additional Scripture and/or words of encouragement. Recite these verses and include them when you pray. Then watch as God’s Word rejuvenates and empowers you. Experience your faith increasing, as faith comes by hearing, reading, speaking, and living the Word of God.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

Having alway struggled with my weight, I’m always a little hesitant about anything weight loss related because I have tried so many diets and read so many books. But I found this little Food for Thought flipbook was a nice surprise.

Since the author has included thoughts and verses from those who deal with the same struggles as all dieters and those with weight concerns, Ms. Mitchell realizes what is needed among us who struggle. You won’t find daily demands, or strict meal plans, but what you will find is encouragement. The little book is broken down into different sections with topics that we all struggle with, so it’s easy to find what we need when we need it. The different translations, paraphrasing, thoughts included are all woven together to help readers get the most of what they are reading and give us a better understanding. I appreciate Ms. Mitchell and her time in complying Food for Thought!

If you struggle with weight, or just need to loose a few pounds, I highly recommend Food for Thought as a help of encouragement. Or maybe you struggle with other issues, the principles here could be used to encourage you as well. A copy of this book was provided by Celebration Lit Tours and the author for me to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are mine only.

About the Author

Candid, dynamic, friendly…and memorable are some of the words used to describe Janet Mitchell. Her fun, engaging style keeps her audiences wanting more. As a master storyteller, she shares her heart, passions and faith, relating incidents from her life that will touch you and make you laugh. Janet addresses relevant life issues and how it just takes one to make a difference in your world!

Janet has held staff positions with Youth for Christ and Forest Home Christian Conference Center and has served as the director of a Christian preschool. Janet is a CLASS Speaker (Christian Leaders, Authors, and Speakers) and is a popular speaker for women’s events, MOPS, family camps and single-parent groups.

As a senior in high school, Janet lost the use of her legs following surgery. On the night of her tenth surgery, she met Marty, who became her cheerleader and was alongside her as she learned to walk again. Eventually, he became her husband. Janet and Marty have been married for over thirty-five years and have three children. Janet’s knee problems reoccurred when she was thirty-two. She was horrified to learn she had been a victim of medical negligence, fraud and concealment. Her additional surgeries had been attempts to correct the mistakes. Janet has since become a voice for others who have suffered medical fraud. Assembly Bill 2571, borne out of her misfortunes, unanimously passed both the California Assembly and the Senate and was signed into state law on August 31, 2000. Her story, Taking a Stand, has motivated others to “take a stand” and remain firm in their faith through the good, bad, and the outrageous.

Janet has been featured on radio programs across the nation, including popular programs such as Focus on the Family and Billy Graham’s Decision Today. Janet has appeared on television programs such as, Fox, CBS and ABC News, Aspiring Women, The Harvest Show, and Chuck and Jenny. Her stories and articles have appeared in the Chicken Soup for the Soul series, Multnomah’s Stories for the Extreme Teen, and in magazines such as Woman’s World, Light and Life, and Celebrate Life. Her Testimony, “When Doctors Make Mistakes,” was published in the July/August 2005 issue of Today’s Christian Woman magazine.

Janet’s book, A Special Kind of Love, published by Broadman and Holman and Focus on the Family, has been highlighted by Rick Warren in his “Ministry Toolbox.” Her Hands on Faith: Family Nights and Hands on Faith: Family Fun books by Carson- Dellosa are now available along with Janet’s five new Praying Scripture Flip Books. Janet’s Taking a Stand was released in November of 2006. It is truly a testimony of God’s faithfulness through the good, bad and outrageous. This past year Janet’s latest book, Words Matter became available. One thing Janet has learned is:

It just takes one to change the world we live in.

Blog Stops

Multifarious, January 5

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, January 5

Splashes of Joy, January 6

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, January 6

Mary Hake, January 7

proud to be an autism mom, January 7

Reading is my Super Power, January 8 (Interview)

A Greater Yes, January 8

Bibliophile Reviews, January 9

Texas Book-aholic, January 10

Carpe Diem, January 11

A Baker’s Perspective, January 12

Pursuing Stacie , January 13

Jeanette’s Thoughts, January 14

Remembrancy, January 15

Pink Granny’s Journey, January 16

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 16

Janices book reviews, January 17

margaret kazmierczak, January 17 (Interview)

Simple Harvest Reads, January 18 (Guest post from Mindy Houng)

Bigreadersite, January 18

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Janet is giving away a grand prize of a $50 Amazon!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/c513

 

Vanishing Point by Lisa Harris

ABOUT THIS BOOK

During Garrett Addison’s first week on the job as a criminal investigator for the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, his team is called out to a murder scene of a young girl. She’s the third victim in a string of disappearances with one thing in common–a Polaroid photo of each victim left behind at the crime scene.

The FBI is pulled into the case to help, and Garrett finds himself working with Special Agent Jordan Lambert, the woman he once loved. When yet another girl dies–number six–Garrett blames himself and believes he doesn’t have what it takes to be an agent. What he’ll discover is that, while he may be done with the killer, the killer is not done with him–or Jordan.

Bestselling and award-winning author Lisa Harris unveils an unforgettable story of a case that has haunted the public and law enforcement for more than a decade. Fans of the Nikki Boyd Files will thrill to finally discover what actually happened to Nikki’s sister, Sarah. New readers will become instant fans after devouring this chilling tale.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
I have thoroughly enjoyed Lisa Harris’s Nikki Boyd Files series. And Wow was Vanishing Point an awesome ending to the series. Throughout the series, Nikki’s main focus was in trying to find what happened to her sister Sarah, and in Vanishing point, we finally find out the answer to what happens to Sarah. And you will not find that out in my review, and hopefully no one else reveals is in their review.

Lisa Harris has an incredible way of writing Christian Suspense stories that will keep you up at night with their horrified, shockingly, scary, but yet romantic tales that will stay with you for a long while after you read the book. And when I say horrified, it’s not a horror book, it’s just the way you feel where reading some of the scenes, and I love, love it!! And I love that throughout the story Ms. Harris weaves the Christian life into her characters. And tries to answer the questions ask in situations that was in the book. The book deals with children who have lost their lives because of horrible people, and the questions like how do parents and families go on living, or why didn’t God stop what was happening, because we know he can. And I think the characters played their parts so well throughout the entire book. What a series of characters that were very well created and loved (well most of them). If you love suspense/thrillers, and a good clean book, this one is a must. In fact the entire series is a must. They are all awesome!

I received this book from Revell Publishers to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.