The God Puzzle by Valerie Ackermann

I am always on the lookout for Bible studies that would be great for me to use with my children, whether in school or for the summer.  I am very cautious about what I use because I want it to be biblical and not just fluff. I don't want it watered down or basic.  I want deep truths because even a child can understand these.

I was pleased to find out that this workbook was just perfect for our use in school in a few years.  I think my 5-year-old could answer some of the questions now, but I want to save it for when he can fill the answers out himself.  It's geared or ages 7-12.  The biblical truths are geared for all ages!

The pages are bright and colorful.  I even like the child-like font they chose to write in.  The first section of each topic is "Get the facts...Observation."  It's all about what the Bible says about the certain topics.  Then it moves to Interpretation and what does it mean. I've always feared this section, because I firmly believe the Bible ill interpret itself through other scriptures, etc.  Many books use this to speak their own opinion.  I appreciated that there are Bible verses to help answer the interpretation part and that Valerie Ackerman doesn't use it to express her thoughts.

Some sections have a "tool" section or an "application" section or a "What does God think about it" section.  Each lesson varies in what section it has.  Each section does have a "read it" section that has extra verses already written out for the child to read.  Then it's followed by a "talk about it" section that allows the child and parent to go into further discussion.  It also allows the parent to gauge how much the child understands on the topic.  The last section is a "talk to God about it" section.  The child can either pray about what they have learned or write their prayers out on a following page.

The topics are so good in here for children.  There are 36 lessons.  Just a few topics discussed are: Who is God, What is sin, What is the Trinity, How do I Accept Jesus as My Savior, How is the Christian Life like a Battle, What is Communion, What is Worship, How do I Study the Bible, and so much more.  Each lesson is wonderful, in my opinion.

I hope she writes more of these books in the near future so that we can use these in our schooling!

You can read more reviews on this book by going to http://litfusegroup.com/author/VAckermann.
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About the Book                     

The God Puzzle is a colorful, easy to use tool to help you communicate to your child the rich truths about God, His ways, His will and His love. The God Puzzle will help you address doctrinal themes of the Christian faith in a kid friendly way, present Bible lessons in an interactive way that will hold the child’s attention and deliver quality teaching with no preparation needed. 75% of children leave the church when they leave home. Something isn’t working. Sunday School isn’t doing it all. Kids need answers, good ones. And they need them from you, the parent. This book enables you to give them simple, clear answers.
What makes The God Puzzle unique?
- ready made discussion questions for parent to ask their child in each lesson
- can be done at any pace that works with your family…every night, once a week, 10 minutes here, 30 minutes there…it fits into realistic family life
- puts the pieces together for a child to understand God, the Bible, and the Christian faith
- in each lesson the responds to the truth so they understand their relationship to God is personal and life transforming
- any parent, whether they know nothing, or a lot about God can start teaching their child today with no prep
- deep theology put into language a child can understand
- deeply Biblical, each lesson points to Christ
- put in an order that starts with creation, and teaches the Bible as one story that all points to Christ
- child stays engaged by filling in blanks, crosswords, drawing, matching and using their Bibles as they learn

About the Author
 

Valerie Ackermann has a BA in Theology and has been a full time Children's Ministry Director at Parkwood Community Church in California for over 10 years. She is also a weekly Sunday school teacher, wife, and busy mom of two boys ages 9 and 11. She has hands-on experience as a children's ministry professional, teaching and leading children of all ages. Growing up in a Christian family in the small town of Saskatchewan Canada, she has wonderful memories of knowing God from an early age. She has a passion for kids to know the deep truths of God. Find out more at LeadMeToGod.com.
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I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group and the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

A Bride for Noah by Lori Copeland and Virginia Smith

After reading the Amish of Apple Grove series that was co-written by Lori Copeland and Virginia Smith, I immediately researched to find out if they would be writing any more books together.  I had sincerely hoped so because that series had been so much fun to read. 

I was excited to start this book and had high hopes for this new series, the Seattle Brides series.  I was certain I wouldn't like them as much as the Amish series, but I really liked this book.  I learned a lot about lumberjacking and starting a town from scratch.  I also got to learn about the Duwamish tribe, which I found interesting.  I found their custom for declaring a wife interesting.  Who would have thought poles would determine who the girl would marry!

I was so glad to see that the humor found in the previous series was just as rich in this book.  That's part of what makes these books so much fun to read.  Who doesn't like a good laugh?  Evie Lawrence had so much spunk.  I had fun picturing her stubbornness with Noah and watching them figure each other out.  Uncle Miles was that uncle that you can only smile and shake your head at because you never know what crazy plan he has cooked up next. 

I am looking forward to watching many more women become brides in this new land officially named Seattle.

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I received this book free from Harvest House Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

A Marriage in Middlebury by Anita Higman

I love the little cafe pictured on the bottom of this book.  It is so cute and I can just picture being here, sipping on some delicious tea.

Charlotte was someone that was easy to relate to.  I liked her personality and absolutely hated the way the book opened up and Sam's fiancée was introduced.  I liked her okay, but it wasn't who I wanted Sam to be with.  I really wanted Sam and Charlotte to have a second chance at love.

My favorite part is when Sam's father asked to speak with Charlotte.  I just knew that this was going to be a time that would lead to reconciliation in one way or another.

I was thrilled to read another book by Anita Higman.  I recently read Winter In Full Bloom and absolutely loved it.  When I saw that Anita Higman had come out with another book, I knew I had to read it.  I was so excited to know that it was just as good as the previous book I'd read.

To read more opinions on this book, go to  http://litfusegroup.com/author/ahigman.

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Book Info

About the book: One decision changed both their lives . . . but will love win in the end? Charlotte Rose Hill enjoys a comfortable life serving up country delicacies, uniquely blended teas, and matchmaking advice for her quirky, devoted customers. The only thing lacking is someone to share it with. At eighteen she denied Sam Wilder's marriage proposal after his family convinced her to walk away from their relationship. They both moved on . . . or so she thought. When Sam walks back into her life more than a decade later, Charlotte is surprised that her heart still quickens. But is it because of his presence? Or because of the presence of Sam's new fiancée? A second chance at love doesn't happen often, but their past may keep them apart. Is it too late for Sam and Charlotte? Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/qPbkU Meet the author: Best-selling and award-winning author, Anita Higman, has over thirty books published (several coauthored) for adults and children. She's been a Barnes & Noble "Author of the Month" for Houston and has a BA degree, combining speech communication, psychology, and art. Anita loves good movies, exotic teas, and brunch with her friends. Connect with Anita at: http://anitahigman.com

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I just received this book free from Abingdon Press and Litfuse Publicity in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

The Dawn of Christmas by Cindy Woodsmall

Welcome to an Amish Christmas and romance!  Sadie was so sweet and my heart broke for her when her no one would believe her when her relationship ended with Daniel.  I really liked Levi, though, and am so glad that Daniel got what he deserved!

Cindy Woodsmall writes wonderful Amish fiction that is such a joy to read.  This book is a sweet Christmas book that really follows several different couples.  Sadie and Levi are the main characters. They each have a past that has to be dealt with and some past hurt that needs to be acknowledged.

Jonah and Beth's journey into parenthood was another side story.  It was so sweet to watch them enter this new stage in life when the possibilities seemed so slim.  It was so good to meet up with some familiar characters again.

I can't wait to read more from Cindy Woodsmall!  I'm already ready for her next book.

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I received this book free from Waterbrook Press in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

To Know You by Shannon Ethridge and Kathryn Mackel

I really like the simplicity of the cover in this book.  The heart necklace really brings home the title of the book and I think it's such a sweet look that tugs at the heart when you see the title and picture together.  At least it did for mine.

I absolutely cannot imagine the heartbreak of giving up your children for their sakes.  I admire those who do and can recognize that someone will love them and care for them when you can't.  However, I would think the pain of handing them to another mother must be heartbreaking and leaves something of a hole in your heart. 

When Julia and Matt find themselves desperately in need of something that only their daughter (whom they gave up for adoption) could offer, she has to lay aside all fears and thoughts in hopes to ask her daughter to be a liver donor for her half-brother that she's never met.

You can imagine the thoughts of Julia's daughters as they have those thoughts put in their head about how their mother is just coming for them just for their liver.  I can't imagine being in either shoes through this story.  I wrestled with the same emotions and questions and thoughts as each character did, as I really thought about the situation.

The forgiveness wrapped in this book is amazing.  It was beautiful to watch played out.  I kept thinking about how neat it was that this book came out at Christmas time and the holidays.  I can imagine it would speak to many people, but also that the idea of forgiveness is powerful and what better gift can you give for the Christmas season than the same gift God gave us....forgiveness!  That message was so powerful in this book.

Read more opinions on this book by going to http://litfusegroup.com/author/sethridge.

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Julia Whittaker’s rocky past yielded two daughters, both given up for adoption as infants. Now she must find them to try to save her son.
Julia and Matt Whittaker’s son has beaten the odds for thirteen years only to have the odds—and his liver—crash precipitously. The only hope for his survival is a “living liver” transplant, but the transplant list is long and Dillon’s time is short. His two older half-sisters, born eighteen months apart to two different fathers, offer his only hope for survival.
But can Julia ask a young woman—someone she surrendered to strangers long ago and has never spoken with—to make such a sacrifice to save a brother she’s never known? Can she muster the courage to journey back into a shame-filled season of her life, face her choices and their consequences, and find any hope of healing?
And what if she discovers in her own daughters’ lives that a history of foolish choices threatens to repeat itself? Julia knows she’s probably embarking on a fool’s errand—searching for the daughters she abandoned only now that she needs something from them. But love compels Julia to take this journey. Can grace and forgiveness compel her daughters to join her?
In To Know You, Shannon Ethridge and Kathryn Mackel explore how the past creates the present . . . and how even the most shattered lives can be redeemed.
Purchase a copy here.
Learn more at Shannon’s website.

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I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers and Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

Stones for Bread by Christa Parrish

First of all, I need to compliment the cover design of this book.  It is simple and beautiful.  When I saw it come across on the review list, I wanted to read it simply because of the cover. 

Now onto the book itself.  It was a very enjoyable book to read.  I could see myself in the character of Liesl, in her personality.  I have a lot of character traits she did, but not the traumatic past.  The story line is very real and I think everyone can find a little bit of themselves in Liesl.  It touches on suicide, depression, and a whole host of other problems that many people can relate to or who know someone who struggles with these.

This book was like a breath of fresh air between the different novels I've read because it is so different from the other books.  I'm not even certain I know where to stick it when I'm considering what type of book it is!  It's its own book and one that can speak to people across the board of all ages.

Liesl loves to bake bread and runs her own bakery, Wild Rose.  It's her heart and soul.  She likes the control and the decision-making.  I found the past of Liesl to be very interesting and the recipes in the book are ones I want to try.

The book is not a fast-moving book, but I even liked the change in that aspect, as well.  It wasn't so slow that it was boring.  It just gave me time to really think about what I was reading.

You can read more opinions about this book by going to http://litfusegroup.com/author/cparrish.

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Book Info

About the book: A solitary artisan. A legacy of bread-baking. And one secret that could collapse her entire identity. Liesl McNamara's life can be described in one word: bread. From her earliest memory, her mother and grandmother passed down the mystery of baking and the importance of this deceptively simple food. And now, as the owner of Wild Rise bake house, Liesl spends every day up to her elbows in dough, nourishing and perfecting her craft. But the simple life she has cultivated is becoming quite complicated. Her head baker brings his troubled grandson into the bakeshop as an apprentice. Her waitress submits her recipes to a popular cable cooking show. And the man who delivers her flour --- a single father with strange culinary  habits --- seems determined to win Liesl's affection. When Wild Rise is featured on television, her quiet existence appears a thing of the past. And then a phone call from a woman claiming to be her half-sister forces Liesl to confront long-hidden secrets in her family's past. With her precious heritage crumbling around her, the baker must make a choice: allow herself to be buried in detachment and remorse, or take a leap of faith into a new life. Purchase your copy: http://ow.ly/qPvoG Meet the author: Christa Parrish is the award-winning author of three novels, including the 2009 ECPA Fiction Book of the Year Watch Over Me. When she's not writing, she's a homeschool mother of three wonderful children. Married to author and pastor Chris Coppernoll, Christa serves with him as co-leader of their church's youth ministry as well as serving as a facilitator for a divorce recovery ministry. She is now also slightly obsessed with the art of baking bread. Learn more about Christa at: http://christaparrish.com

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I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers and Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

Merry Humbug Christmas by Sandra D. Bricker

I love Christmas novels this time of year.  It helps get me in the holiday spirit and ready to decorate my house!  After reading my first book by Sandra D. Bricker, I couldn't pass this one up. 

This book is full of humor and leaves you feeling good after reading it.  It was a great book for me to escape in during the craziness of Thanksgiving.  I couldn't help but laugh all throughout this book because I can picture me and my husband throughout the book.  Granted, he's not he biggest humbug, but he definitely doesn't appreciate all things Christmas like I do (like the lights and decorations).

The cruise was probably the funniest story, in my opinion.  Being part Irish, I was quite fond of Patrick.  It was fun to go back to the beginning of a relationship and remember the awkwardness and the hilarious things that tended to happen while getting to know each other. 

The other story, following Dr. Reese, didn't lack in humor either.  The adventures that she found herself taking part in as she was trying to impress her fiancé was funny, too!

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

For more than a decade, Sandra D. Bricker lived in Los Angeles. While honing her chosen craft of screenwriting in every spare moment, she worked as a personal assistant and publicist to some of daytime television's hottest stars. When her mother became ill in Florida, she walked away from that segment of her life and moved across the country to take on a new role: Caregiver.

The author says that it was her 8th novel that opened the door to finding her way as a writer. "I'm a Christian woman, first and foremost," she says. "So it was a bit of a dream-come-true when Summerside Press chose me as one of two authors to launch the Love Finds You line."

Sandie's real-life role as cancer survivor has parlayed into her steadfast commitment to raising awareness and funds for ovarian cancer research. Spearheading a series of devotionals for Summerside Press (such as the popular His Grace is Sufficient...Decaf is Not), the author has stipulated that a portion of each contributor's proceeds will go to the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund.


"Being allowed to combine my faith and my humor with raising funds for my pet projects ... and still pursue my writing dream," says Bricker, "well, that's the best of all worlds, as far as I'm concerned!"

And one of the author's pet projects is animal rescue, evidenced by the special bond she has created with one particular formerly-abandoned puppy -- a red-haired collie with "killer brown eyes and the heart of the class clown."

ABOUT THE BOOK

A Merry Humbug Christmas features two holiday romance novellas from hilarious and heartwarming author Sandra D. Bricker. -- the perfect gift to yourself or someone else at this most wonderfully stressful time of year.

 In "Once Upon a Jingle Bell," A Bah! Humbug cruise to the Mexican Riviera is Joss Snow’s answer to this year’s quest to avoid the holidays completely; at least until she’s rebooked on a different kind of cruise altogether. Candy canes, holly wreaths, reindeer and ornaments seem to be stalking her on the 12 Days of Christmas holiday cruise extravaganza. An escape back to land is her only goal . . . until she meets a kindred spirit in rugged Irishman Patrick Brenneman, and then the game is on! Avoid Christmas festivities at all costs . . . except maybe for that one stop under the mistletoe.

In "It Came Upon a Midnight Deer," Reese’s guilt over abandoning best friend Joss on their holiday tradition of avoiding all things Christmas is trumped by the joy of her recent engagement. Meeting Damian’s family for the first time on idyllic Sugarloaf Mountain is about as far from that Bah! Humbug cruise as she can get, and Reese can hardly wait to get there. But from the moment they hit that deer in the road just two miles from the cabin, everything seems to go wrong. There are no drummers drumming or pipers piping this particular year! And once she sets her future in-laws’ family cabin ablaze, she’s pretty sure there won’t be even ONE golden ring in her future.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Merry Humbug Christmas, go HERE.

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I received this book free from B & H Publishing and CFBA in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

Strait of Hormuz by Davis Bunn

Davis Bunn has been an author that I have come to enjoy.  I look forward to each time a book of his is released.  This is the third book in the Marc Royce series.  Having read the first two, I knew this book would probably be even better than those two. 

There was a lot of action in this book.  It always surprises me that I enjoy this in certain books and I can't stand in others.  In fact, I'm very picky when it comes to reviewing action books because I'm always nervous I won't be able to finish from all my emotions!  (In case you don't know...I hate that nervous feeling from action movies/books.)  That said, I did have that nervous feeling in this book (and the others), but it was also one of anticipation.  I couldn't put it down because I just had to know how it ended.

These books are good stand alone books, but are even better when read straight through as a series.  I can't even imagine being Marc Royce--alone and not even having a clue who or what to be looking for.  All the while knowing that your life is being put into danger because people know who you are!
The romance in this book isn't mushy at all.  It fits the book and the style of Marc.  He's not a drama person, but the situations he finds himself in is pretty dramatic. 

It was really neat to see how the governments from two different countries acted, hypothetically, (but I also got a good understanding of how they could most likely act) during something that could be a big crisis.  The pressures mounted on not only the government but on Marc and his partner to save many lives.  That kind of pressure leads to lots of tension and Marc's heart for God shone through the book.  Just seeing how he was able to rely on God's will while so many weren't was encouraging.

Can't wait to read more by Davis Bunn!
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I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay

This is a book so unlike any other book I've read.  I've read the diary type books before, but this doesn't even compare easily to those.  I was hooked instantly, though, because of all the mentions of Jane Austen and the old never-gets-old authors like Dickens and many others.

Sam is 23 and an orphan.  She loves English and really wanted to write fiction.  However, a benefactor has decided he would pay for her to go to graduate school to get a master's in Journalism.  Sam wasn't on board with that idea at first, but gradually is convinced that she'd give it a try.  However, after being put on a wait list she begins to think she wasn't intended to go to Northwestern University.  Her benefactor tells her to be patient and that just being on the wait list is a privilege.

In order for Sam to receive this money, she has to agree to one thing: writing letters frequently to the donor whom remains a mystery.  She is alone, but uses these letters to Mr. Knightley as a form of a diary.  Sam begins to realize a lot about herself through these letters and confesses many things about herself. 

Sam's honesty with a complete stranger is amazing.  I kept thinking about how transparent I want my life to be.  Even though these words were written to someone, the comfort she had at knowing someone knew the true her (thoughts and all) had to be a comfort. 

This book does not seem like a debut novel.  It is written so beautifully and is well done.  I loved reading about how this story came about and how she was introduced to some wonderful authors while being injured.  I can just see me receiving books instead of cards when I'm sick, much to my husband's dismay!  Can't wait to see what else comes from this new author!

For more opinions on this book, go to http://litfusegroup.com/author/kreay.

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Book Info

About the book: Samantha Moore has always hidden behind the words of others-namely her favorite characters in literature. Now, she will learn to write her own story-by giving that story to a complete stranger. Growing up orphaned and alone, Sam found her best friends in the works of Austen, Dickens, and the Brontë sisters. The problem is that she now relates to others more comfortably as Elizabeth Bennet and Jane Eyre than as herself. Sometimes we lose ourselves in the things we care about most. But life for this twenty-three-year-old is about to get stranger than fiction, when an anonymous benefactor (calling himself "Mr. Knightley") offers to put Sam through the prestigious Medill School of Journalism. There is only one catch: Sam must write frequent letters to the mysterious donor, detailing her progress. As Sam's program and peers force her to confront her past, she finds safety in her increasingly personal letters to Mr. Knightley. And when Sam meets eligible, best-selling novelist Alex Powell, those letters unfold a story of love and literature that feels as if it's pulled from her favorite books. But when secrets come to light, Sam is --- once again --- made painfully aware of how easily trust can be broken. Reay's debut novel follows one young woman's journey as she sheds her protective persona and embraces the person she was meant to become. Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/qDEkp Meet the author: Katherine Reay has enjoyed a life-long affair with the works of Jane Austen and her contemporaries. After earning degrees in history and marketing from Northwestern University, she worked as a marketer for Proctor & Gamble and Sears before returning to school to earn her MTS. Her works have been published in "Focus on the Family" and the "Upper Room." Katherine currently lives with her husband and three children in Seattle. "Dear Mr. Knightley" is her first novel. Learn more about Katherine at: http://katherinereay.com/ ______________________ I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group and Thomas Nelson Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.



Aloha Rose by Lisa Carter

I have come to really look forward to reading these books in the Quilts of Love series.  Each author is so unique in their storytelling and I love reading how the quilt itself tells a story.  Lisa Carter is a new author to me, but I really enjoyed this book.  I was immediately planted in Hawaii and of course, found myself relaxing at the mere thought of Hawaii.  It provided a wonderful escape for me during the days leading up to Thanksgiving!

As the book began, I found that it was a little slower to develop.  I liked it and the storyline, but there were times where it felt like it didn't completely flow.  I'm not sure why it seemed that way, but I had difficulty in the first part of the book.  It could have been because I didn't feel like the characters were strong enough during that part.  It could have also been that some words were used that I didn't know and that were not in the back listed in the Hawai'ian dictionary.

However, about halfway through, I couldn't put it down.  Laney got on my nerves a little bit because I wanted her to stop talking and yelling and listen!  I loved her "ohana" and especially Kai.  I was surprised by the ending because I truly had not expected the secret revealed to be what it was.  It was a wonderful surprise, but it did make me understand why Laney would be so upset.

Definitely looking forward to more books in the Quilts of Love series. 
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A word from the author:

I am a wife and mother. My husband and I have two daughters and make our home in the beautiful state of North Carolina.

I am a teacher. With a Master’s degree in history, I have taught at the university, high school and middle school levels. After years of church involvement as a soloist, choir member and worship leader, I also teach music.

I am a writer. Delighted by the rhythm and musicality of words, I have been writing since childhood. In 2001, I won the Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) Story Writing Contest that re-ignited a lifelong love of writing.

I am on a journey of faith. My ultimate desire through my life and my writing is to proclaim the truth of God’s Word, His redeeming love as seen in the life of Jesus Christ and to help others know for themselves this great, awesome God of all comfort and wisdom. He is enough for every need.

ABOUT THE BOOK
When Laney Carrigan sets out to find her birth family, her only clue is the Hawaiian quilt—a red rose snowflake appliquéd on a white background—in which she was found wrapped as an infant. Centering her search on the Big Island and battling fears of rejection, Laney begins a painstaking journey toward her true heritage. Kai Barnes, however, is determined to protect the people he’s come to regard as family. He thinks Laney is nothing more than a gold digger and blocks every move she makes toward her Hawaiian family. As their conflict escalates, it puts at risk the one thing that Kai and Laney both want most—a family.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Aloha Rose, go HERE.
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I received this book free from Abingdon Press and CFBA in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

Shoe Garden and Other Shoe Stories by Joyce Fishman and Brenda Finne

This book is a cute collection of stories on shoes.  For my shoe-loving daughter, she liked this book.  Some of the book felt a little strange to me, but it did have some fun ways to look at our shoes.  I liked the part where it was said to think about the journeys our shoes will go on when we put them on today.  That's a fun consideration in the mornings.

The artwork is pretty and colorful, but I wouldn't say that it is the best I've seen in a children's book.  It didn't take away from the book at all and my daughter still loved it.  It was just not the best children's book I've read.

The book itself is a collection of shoe stories.  The stories are: Shoe Garden, Shoe Dreams, When Shoes Can Fly, and Butterfly Shoes.

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I was given this book free by the authors and PR by the Book in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

Pirates on the Farm by Denette Fretz and Gene Barretta

This is such a cute kids book!  My son loves cowboys so I knew this book was one that we HAD to read together.  It has already become a family favorite for us.  The illustrations in this book are really pretty and definitely eye-catching for the young kids. 

The storyline itself is just as good.  As I was reading it, I knew there was a message so I immediately began looking for it.  I really liked how the Dad showed love to the pirates even when they were a bit different than the rest of the people he normally interacted with.  This was a powerful book that hit home with us as we've been talking a lot about loving and respecting people even if they treat us badly.  I like how the Dad never disrespected them, but kept reaching out to them.  It was a perfect lesson for us to talk to about with our kids on a level they understood.

I like the hardback book because it won't be easily damaged, which is good because I plan to keep it!  The back has a definitions page called "Stretch's Totally True Seadog Definition."  It has all of the "pirate speak" defined. 

Overall, this would make a great Christmas present for any child.  My oldest, my son, is 5-years-old and loves pirates.  My daughter is 3 and was engaged through the whole book.  It says on the book that it is geared for ages 4-8.  It is also a part of the new series, The Next Door Series.  Excited to read the next one in February.  For any young pirate-lover, this book is a must!

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I received this book free from Zondervan Publishers and Booksneeze in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

 

Critical Reaction by Todd M. Johnson

I am rather new to the whole legal thriller book genre.  I was first introduced to one a few years ago and ever since then, I've been keeping my ears out for those lawyers-turned-authors who write from experience.  When this one came up with the biography of Todd M. Johnson, I knew this was one I had to review.  I haven't read his first book, yet, but I did download it after reading this one.  I've even recommended it to several of my friends who like these kind of books and have trouble finding them in the Christian bookstores.

The plot is very solid and the characters are built into the story well.  I'll admit that I don't do suspense well, even though I like it.  I did find myself turning to the end to make sure certain characters were okay.  I hate liking a character so much and then something happening to them!  

I learned a lot about the nuclear field.  I have had a lot of questions concerning the nuclear plants and have had a hard time understanding certain things about them.  I appreciated the explanations on a simple, but not demeaning, level.  The courtroom scenes were intense and very interesting.  I am always fascinated on what goes on in the courtroom...just plan to never be in there for a reason other than jury duty!  

I can't wait for another book to come out by Johnson.  Since one came out last year and another this year, I'm really hoping he has another one set to release next year!

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR: 

Todd M. Johnson has practiced as an attorney for over 30 years, specializing as a trial lawyer. Todd's career experience blends with his passion for writing in his novels published through Bethany House. 

A graduate of Princeton University and the University of Minnesota Law School, he also taught for two years as an adjunct professor of International Law, and served as a US diplomat in Hong Kong. 

The Deposit Slip, Mr. Johnson's first novel, debuted in 2012. Todd's second novel, Critical Reaction, will be released in November 2013. 

Todd lives outside Minneapolis, Minnesota, with his wife Cathy and children Ian and Libby. 

ABOUT THE BOOK 

After decades of turning out plutonium for the arms race, the Hanford Nuclear Facility has long been shuttered, though its deadly legacy cannot be fully contained. The men who guard the facility from sabotage or monitor its buildings for radiation leaks are told the risks are under control. They believe it, until the worst happens: a thunderous explosion in the dead of night. 

Two workers, lifer Poppy Martin and new hire Kieran Mullaney, believe themselves lucky to survive the blast. But as the debris is cleared, they discover their safety is not assured. Dead ends and closed doors halt their efforts to discover what really happened--and what radiation may have poisoned them. When stalling and threats force them into the hands of experienced trial lawyer Ryan Hart, they learn that theirs is no ordinary lawsuit. There is something still hidden in the desert of eastern Washington, and someone is willing to go to extreme lengths to make sure it never sees the light of day. 

If you would like to read the first chapter of Critical Reaction, go HERE. 

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I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers and CFBA in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

Aloha Rose by Lisa Carter

I have come to really look forward to reading these books in the Quilts of Love series.  Each author is so unique in their storytelling and I love reading how the quilt itself tells a story.  Lisa Carter is a new author to me, but I really enjoyed this book.  I was immediately planted in Hawaii and of course, found myself relaxing at the mere thought of Hawaii.  It provided a wonderful escape for me during the days leading up to Thanksgiving!

As the book began, I found that it was a little slower to develop.  I liked it and the storyline, but there were times where it felt like it didn't completely flow.  I'm not sure why it seemed that way, but I had difficulty in the first part of the book.  It could have been because I didn't feel like the characters were strong enough during that part.  It could have also been that some words were used that I didn't know and that were not in the back listed in the Hawai'ian dictionary.

However, about halfway through, I couldn't put it down.  Laney got on my nerves a little bit because I wanted her to stop talking and yelling and listen!  I loved her "ohana" and especially Kai.  I was surprised by the ending because I truly had not expected the secret revealed to be what it was.  It was a wonderful surprise, but it did make me understand why Laney would be so upset.

Definitely looking forward to more books in the Quilts of Love series.   To read more opinions on this book, go to http://litfusegroup.com/campaigns/quilts-of-love-the-christmas-quilt-and-aloha-rose.

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Book Info

About the book: When Laney Carrigan's adoptive parents encourage her as an adult to seek out her birth family, her only clue is the Lokelani quilt in which she was found wrapped as an infant. Centering her search on the Big Island, she battles fears of rejection from a family that abandoned her once before while her faith struggles to embrace God's love. Along the path to her true heritage, she meets Hawaiian cowboy/helicopter pilot, Kai Barnes. Kai is determined to protect the people he's come to regard as family against a woman he suspects of being nothing more than a gold-digger, but he finds himself drawn to Laney in spite of his reservations. He's spent his entire life seeking forgiveness from past mistakes and longs for a second chance at happiness.  Laney's painstaking journey to find restoration and a place to belong among the breathtaking allure of the Big Island will lead her closer to her past and maybe even something more. Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/qKmVW Meet the author: Lisa Carter has been published in MomSense and Christian Parenting Today. Lisa is currently teaching music at a preschool and enjoying the enthusiasm and joy for life for which preschoolers are famous. She and David have two beautiful daughters. Find out more at: http://www.quiltsoflovebooks.com

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I received this book free from Abingdon Press and Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

Snow on the Tulips by Liz Tolsma

Wow!  I am very impressed by this book.  I'm not certain if this is a new author or not, but she is definitely new to me.  This is a book that I couldn't get out of my head.  I was wrapped into the story and felt like I could easily visualize what was going on.  I can't even begin to imagine the fear of this time.  The most amazing part of this book is that it is based on a true story.

The book is focused on WWII and Nazi Germany.  Cornelia has already lost her husband to the Nazi's and is hiding her brother with all she has in hopes that she won't lose him, too.  Johan, Cornelia's brother, has rebelled against fighting with the Nazi's and is instead longing to be part of the Resistance group.  When Gerrit lives through what was supposed to be his execution, he stumbles upon Johan who immediately takes him to live with him.  Cornelia helps him heal and in the process might find love again.  However, a lot is at stake for these two.

My favorite character is probably one that the author didn't intend.  I loved the Nazi soldier that started into Gerrit's eyes.  He risked so much to keep Gerrit and Cornelia and Johan safe.  I couldn't help but like him every time he came on the scene.  I know there were people like that, but I can't imagine how terrifying it would be if you were found out.  For you life to be suddenly turned upside down has to be horrifying when it's a life or death situation.

Liz Tolsma has another book, Daisies Last Forever that is due out in May 2014.  I'll definitely be adding that one to my bookshelves, too.

To read other reviews on this book, go to http://litfusegroup.com/author/ltolsma.

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Book Info

About the book: A stranger's life hangs in the balance. But to save him is to risk everything. The war is drawing to a close, but the Nazis still occupy part of the Netherlands. After the losses she's endured, war widow Cornelia is only a shadow of the woman she once was. She fights now to protect her younger brother, Johan, who lives in hiding. When Johan brings Gerrit Laninga, a wounded Dutch Resistance member, to Cornelia's doorstep, their lives are forever altered. Although scared of the consequences of harboring a wanted man, Cornelia's faith won't let her turn him out. As she nurses Gerrit back to health, she is drawn to his fierce passion and ideals, and notices a shift within herself. Gerrit's intensity challenges her, making her want to live fully, despite the fear that constrains her. When the opportunity to join him in the Resistance presents itself, Cornelia must summon every ounce of courage imaginable. She is as terrified of loving Gerrit as she is of losing him. But as the winter landscape thaws, so too does her heart. Will she get a second chance at true love? She fears their story will end before it even begins. Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/q92YR Meet the author: Liz Tolsma has lived in Wisconsin most of her life, and she now resides next to a farm field with her husband, their son, and their two daughters. Add a dog and a cat to that mix and there's always something going on at their house. She's spent time teaching second grade, writing advertising for a real estate company, and working as a church secretary, but she always dreamed of becoming an author. She'd love to have you visit her at www.liztolsma.com.

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I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers and Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

The Christmas Quilt by Vannetta Chapman

This was a beautiful Christmas story!  I think it was different than several of the books I've read in this Quilts of Love series.  Perhaps I really liked it because it was the Amish fiction that I love to read.

Vannetta Chapman tells a beautiful story of a quilt that resembles growth and discovery.  It represents hard times, good times, and trying times.  It represents both family and friendships.  When this quilt is looked upon, you know that it has a story.  The book didn't have a lot of drama, except it did as far as a much anticipated birth.  I liked the close friendship between Leah and Annie and how they walked this road together.

Both Annie and Leah are expecting babies.  Leah is expecting twins after Christmas and Annie is expecting one later in the year.  Things were going well, minus the poor relationship that had developed between Leah and Adam.  A trying time involving Adam and Leah and their babies brings the two closer together and helps them to grow closer.  Each have things that they need to work on in their relationship and God uses this time to develop some fruits of the Spirit in them.  It's not easy, but they have a relationship to be desired by the end of the book.  The quilt represents this time in their life as it was a product of all that they had went through.  Meant as a gift from Annie, it becomes something that Leah and Annie look forward to working on and brings many discussions and lots of growth from the two.

To read more reviews on this book, go to http://litfusegroup.com/campaigns/quilts-of-love-the-christmas-quilt-and-aloha-rose.

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Book Info

About the book: Annie's life is deliciously full as the Christmas season approaches. She helps her husband, Samuel, attend to the community's minor medical needs. She occasionally assists Belinda, the local midwife, and most days, she finds herself delivering the buggy to her brother Adam. Annie's sister-in-law Leah is due to deliver their first child before Christmas morning, and Annie is determined to finish a crib quilt before the boppli arrives. With six weeks to go, she should have no problem . . . but God may have a different plan. Leah is rushed to the English hospital when the infant arrives early, and Annie discovers the Christmas quilt may hold a far greater significance than she ever imagined. Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/qKnYD Meet the author: Vannetta Chapman has published over one hundred articles in Christian family magazines, receiving over two dozen awards from Romance Writers of America chapter groups. She discovered her love for the Amish while researching her grandfather's birthplace in Albion, Pennsylvania. Chapman lives in the Texas hill country with her husband. Find out more at: http://www.quiltsoflovebooks.com __________________   I received this book free from Abingdon Press and Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

Gunpowder Tea by Margaret Brownley

I haven't read any books in this series, except for this one.  With that said, I've now downloaded the rest of this series because this book was so good.  I loved the humor in this book and found myself laughing out loud in certain places.  Eleanor was probably my favorite character, but I did like Miranda and Jeremy....or Annie and Branch.  Tea time was also one of the favorite times of mine throughout this book!

I really never suspected the Phantom to be who it really was.  She did a great job in revealing who he was at just the right time.  At one point, I did suspect who it was, but didn't know for sure.  I liked the ending and thought it was a perfect ending.  Now I want to read more about their next adventure and find out if their plan really works!

Miranda is an agent for Pinkerton Detective Agency and Jeremy is an agent for Wells Fargo.  Both of them have ended up at the Last Chance Ranch because they think the Phantom is hiding out there.  Neither of them know the other is an undercover agent until about halfway through the book.  The humor comes in as Miranda acts like she's applying to be a heiress for Eleanor, the owner of the Last Chance Ranch.  More circumstances besides the Phantom have brought these two together, though.

To read more reviews on this book, go to http://litfusegroup.com/author/mbrownley.

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Book Info

About the book: In a case that could change her career, Miranda uncovers a love that will change her life. When Miranda Hunt sees the classified ad for an heiress to the legendary Last Chance Ranch, she knows assuming the identity of Annie Beckman is the perfect cover. As one of the finest agents for the Pinkerton Detective Agency, Miranda has been tasked with apprehending the Phantom---an elusive and notorious train robber thought to be hiding on the sprawling ranch. But she isn't the only one at the ranch with something to hide. Wells Fargo detective Jeremy Taggart is working undercover as well. Their true identities may be a secret, but it is impossible for Jeremy and Miranda to hide the sparks flaring between them. Neither is about to let romance interfere with such a huge case. Besides, Miranda hasn't removed Jeremy from her list of suspects yet. The closer they get to uncovering the identity of the Phantom, the more dangerous he gets---and no one on the ranch is safe. The longer Miranda and Jeremy spend working together, the harder it becomes to keep their feelings in check. Their careers-and their lives-depend on solving this case. Love will just have to wait. "In the exquisitely intriguing finale to her Brides of Last Chance Ranch trilogy, Brownley blends faith and romance with a dash of mystery to serve up a cozy, fulfilling story set in the Arizona Territory of the 1890s . . . .This enchanting account of the hardships and wonders of the Old West features many delightful characters. The story stands on its own merits, independent of the first two in the series, drawing readers into a world that is difficult to leave."  ---Publishers Weekly Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/pS1iy Meet the author: Thrills, mystery, suspense, romance: Margaret penned it all. Nothing wrong with this---except Margaret happened to be writing for the church newsletter at the time. After making the church picnic read like a Grisham novel, her former pastor took her aside and said, "Maybe God's calling you to write fiction." So that's what Margaret did. She's now a New York Times bestselling author and a Romance Writers of America RITA finalist with more than 25 novels to her credit. Her first non-fiction book Grieving God's Way: the Lasting Path to Hope and Healing has won much critical acclaim. She is currently working on the third book in her Brides of Last Chance Ranch series. Not bad for someone who flunked 8th grade English. Just don't ask her to diagram a sentence. Learn more at Margaret's website: http://margaretbrownley.com

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I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers and Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

The Promise Box by Tricia Goyer

This is one of my new favorite Amish series.  I remember seeing the first book in this series in the bookstore, but I never bought it.  Needless to say, I'm not going out to purchase that book this weekend so I can own this series.  

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  I really like the style in which Tricia Goyer writes.  She adds enough tension in the book to create the problem and leaves some mystery as to what the real issues are that the characters are dealing with, but she doesn't create some huge needless drama.  I was grateful for that.  It was nice to read something that was a little bit predictable, but still had some surprises in it.  
  
  
  
  
  I also liked the promises in this book.  Many Amish books tend to focus on the shunning and the forgiveness coming only AFTER the people return to the Amish community.  I loved the grace and understanding shown in this book.  It was beautiful.  I felt like I was seeing relationships in light of how God truly wants us to see others, Amish or not.  I liked all of the promises and lessons.  They were sweet and not over the top at all.  The scripture verses fit perfectly.
  
  
  
  
  I can't wait to read book #3 in this series, Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors.  It's hard to say goodbye to Lydia and Gideon, though.  I became quite fond of them and Gideon's special way with Blue.  I felt bad for him feeling looked over as a child, but liked the lesson of letting go of the past with my children and focusing on the future.  Who knew I'd gain parenting insights in a fiction book!  
  
  
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  I received this book free from Booksneeze and Zondervan publishers in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.