Coming Home for Christmas DVD REVIEW AND GIVEAWAY

ABOUT COMING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS

Two estranged sisters who haven't been on speaking terms reunite in hopes of having a family Christmas all together for the first time in years.

Starring:
Carly McKillip,
Britt McKillip,
Amy Jo Johnson,
Ben Hollingsworth,
George Canyon

Format: NTSC
Language: English
Studio: Anderson Merchandisers Lp
DVD Release Date: October 15, 2013
ASIN: B00DS79HK6

MY REVIEW
  I really love Christmas movies and wanted this to be so good, but……….Coming home for Christmas is not a very interesting movie. There is no depth of character. It’s like a silly movie about two sisters having a fight and then  the whole family starts having trouble for years. No one is sorry or want to help each other until the parents break up then they start to think about what’s been done.
  One thing I did like about Coming Home For Christmas was the girls decided to try to get their parents back together and want to have Christmas in the old family house. Since someone else is living there they have to find a way to get him to let them celebrate Christmas at his house. That was a fun part.
  If you love Christmas movies and just want to have a simple movie to watch you will like this one.

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“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

DVD GIVEAWAY

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Still Lolo by Lauren Scruggs with Marcus Brotherton A REVIEW

In December 2011, Lauren (“LoLo”) Scruggs, a 23-year-old fashion journalist, suffered a sudden injury that made headlines around the world. She had been on a short flight to look at Christmas lights and, upon exiting the small plane, was hit by the still-moving propeller blade. A frantic 911 call, several major surgeries, and thousands of prayers later: Lauren lived. But she lost her left hand and left eye. And she had to face some incredibly difficult questions: What kind of future will I have? Where is God in all this pain? Will anyone ever be able to love me now? In Still LoLo, Lauren speaks out for the first time since her accident. She and her family reveal what really happened that night, what Lauren’s life is like today, what got them through their journey toward healing, and how they conquered all odds to persevere as a family. It’s a compelling and fiercely beautiful story of faith, determination, and staying true to who you are—no matter what.

Paperback: 290 pages
Publisher: Tyndale Momentum (August 16, 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1414376707
ISBN-13: 978-1414376707
Product Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 0.8 inches
Shipping Weight: 14.1 ounces

http://lolomag.com/
Lauren Scruggs is a fashion journalist and the founder and editor-in-chief of LOLO Magazine, an online lifestyle experience magazine that integrates coverage of the food, fashion, beauty, health, and travel industries. She has served as a contributing editor at MyItThings.com, SMUStyle, and PR Couture. A 2009 Dallas Baptist University graduate, Lauren has worked in the Michael Kors showroom and reported from New York, Paris, and Montreal Fashion Weeks. She was an intern in the fashion department of the television series Gossip Girl. See her magazine at lolomag.com. Jeff and Cheryl Scruggs are authors, speakers, and counselors. Their writings include the widely used book I Do Again and are the founders of Hope Matters Marriage Ministries in Dallas. See their website: hopeformarriages.com. Brittany (Scruggs) Morgan is Lauren’s fraternal twin. She works in accounting for a commercial insurance company and is married to her best friend, Shaun. Marcus Brotherton is a journalist and professional writer known for his literary collaborations with high-profile public figures, humanitarians, inspirational leaders, and military personnel. He has authored or coauthored more than 25 books, including the New York Times best-seller We Who Are Alive and Remain, with 20 of the last surviving Band of Brothers. See his website: marcusbrotherton.com.
Visit his blog at: www.marcusbrotherton.com

MY REVIEW
   The book Still Lolo by Lauren Scruggs, her family with Marcus Brotherton is an O.K. book. I love true stories of people overcoming tragedies, but felt like this book somehow wasn’t strong enough or had enough heart. Don’t get me wrong I know Lauren had a great struggle and had something horrific happen to her.
  The things I didn’t appreciate in this book was the back story. I know you need back story but it was almost ¾ of this book. I At times it seemed to go on and on. In Still Lolo it didn’t give out enough details of the accident and the recovery period. Also Lauren is quite conceited about her looks and I think she should be happier with the sparing of her life instead of how she looks and how she will get along in life.
  Still Lolo is an easy read and didn’t take me long, but I was just looking for more substance. It does have some colorful pictures and they were interesting. I really can’t recommend reading this book unless you like long stories that only talk of the past and not what the real story is suppose to be about.

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Thanks to Tyndale House Publishers for providing this book for 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 255

Outlaw by Ted Dekker~ A REVIEW~

ABOUT OUTLAW
The story of how I, Julian Carter, and my precious two-year old son, Stephen, left Atlanta Georgia and found ourselves on a white sailboat, tossed about like a cork on a raging sea off of Australia's northern tip in 1963, is harrowing.

But it pales in comparison to what happened deep in the jungle where I was taken as a slave by a savage tribe unknown to the world. Some places dwell in darkness so deep that even God seems to stay away.

There, my mind was torn in two by the gods of the earth. There, one life ended so another could begin.

Some will say I was a fool for making the choices I made. But they would have done the same. They, too, would have embraced death if they knew what I knew, and saw through my eyes.

My name is Julian and this is my story. But more, it is the story of my son who was born to change the world.

From deep in the impenetrable jungles where New York Times bestselling author Ted Dekker was born and raised, comes OUTLAW, an epic adventure of two worlds that perhaps only he could write. Full of harrowing twists, sweeping violence, and wild love, Outlaw takes us beyond the skin of this world to another unseen.


Outlaw
Publisher: Center Street
Price: $25.00 US/$28.00 CAN
Pages: 352
Physical Dimensions: 6" x 9"
ISBN-13: 9781599954158
On Sale Date: 10/22/2013

ABOUT TED DEKKER
TED DEKKER is a New York Times bestselling author of more than twenty novels with a total of more than 5 million books in print. He is known for thrillers that combine adrenaline-laced plots with incredible confrontations between good and evil.






MY REVIEW
  Outlaw by Ted Dekker is a brilliant read, but different than his other books. Ted describes the places and people so well you feel like you are there and experiencing these same things.
  Outlaw is a story about a young woman Julian whom had a dream and it occurred very often. She believed it was telling her to take her son and go to a different land to be a missionary.  They were involved in a shipwreck and that is where the story starts.
  Ted has said that Outlaw is a book closer to his real self than all of the others. One part of Outlaw talks about everyone having two selves. One part right now we are putting on costumes like being a mother, doctor, teacher, son, and that self can be killed, but our other true self is our spiritual self which will live forever. It is a very sweet, touching look at what we really are and how we should contemplate on this.
One of my favorite lines in Outlaw are these words “The roles you identify with are not the true you, they are only the costume you wear for a short time.”
  This is a book that I wish everyone would read. I highly recommend it. Another excellent book by Ted Dekker.

Order from Hachette/Center Street

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I received my free copy from Sarah Reck at Center Street/HachetteBookGroup, for my 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 255

Hugs and Kisses (x's and o's) CD REVIEW

ABOUT HUGS AND KISSESS (x's and o's)
A variety album with familiar melodies and my original title song. I sing and play the saxophone in the wonderful style of the Big Band Era. The concept for this album was inspired by the memory of my grandmother who would always sign her notes and birthday cards with xxxxoooo (hugs and kisses). I was reminded of this a couple of years ago as my dear cousin carries on the tradition. The CD is featured in a nostalgic jacket just like the old LP's. The title song is dedicated to my wife Laura, with all my love! ...xo, Curtis

CD Track List

1. Hugs and Kisses (x's and o's) 
2. For Me And My Gal 
3. The St Louis Blues 
4. My Melancholy Baby 
5. You're A Grand Old Flag 
6. Let Me Call You Sweetheart 
7. American Patrol March 
8. Home On The Range 
9. The Yankee Doodle Boy 
10. Meet Me Tonight In Dreamland 
11. Alexander's Ragtime Band 
12. Take Me Out To The Ballgame 
13. Over There 
14. I'll Be With You In Apple Blossom Time 
15. Give My Regards To Broadway

ABOUT CURTIS CHAMBERLAIN
Curtis Chamberlain is a professional musician from New Concord, Ohio. He has over 20 years of performance experience and holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music.

Curtis travels extensively each year performing shows for numerous venues and organizations.

His concert appearances contain an exciting variety of Great American Standards.

Curtis "croons" out the songs and plays a lively saxophone in the wonderful style of the Big Band Era!

Combined with personally arranged back-up music, a professional sound system and a nostalgic stage set, his shows have a very authentic flavor.

Curtis' lovely wife of 14 years, Laura, manages his schedule.

A big band is a type of musical ensemble that originated in the United States and is associated with jazz and the Swing Era typically consisting of rhythm, brass, and woodwind instruments totaling approximately 12 to 25 musicians. The terms jazz band, jazz ensemble, jazz orchestra, stage band, society band, and dance band may describe this type of ensemble in particular contexts.

http://www.bigbandcurtis.com/

MY REVIEW
  Hugs and Kisses (x’s and o’s) is a wonderful collection of Big Band Era music. This CD just came out and it would make an excellent present for yourself or family. If you love Big Band music this CD is for you.
  Curtis is a very talented  musician, singer, entertainer and songwriter. The CD contains fifteen songs that we have all heard (well fourteen) and many are favorites of ours. The first song Hugs and Kisses (x’s and o’s) was written by Curtis for his beautiful wife.
  Hugs and Kisses has a song for everyone. You will find yourself singing along and enjoying yourself when you listen to this beautiful CD.
  Curtis has a very smooth voice and he is flawless in his music abilities. I can’t believe this wonderful CD is going at such a great price for fifteen songs. The music, Curtis’ voice and songs he sings gives me the feeling of joy and peacefulness. The tone and quality of this CD are excellent.
Here’s a quote I thought was beautiful and fit with this CD.

~God sent his Singers upon earth
With songs of sadness and of mirth,
That they might touch the hearts of men,
And bring them back to heaven again.
~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow~
Highly recommend this CD-Hugs and Kisses (x’s and o’s)

Order CD from Big Band Curtis
Go to this site to listen to some free music also!

Thank you to Curtis Chamberlain for providing this CD for 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 255

The Governess of Highland Hall*A REVIEW

THE GOVERNESS OF HIGHLAND HALL

Worlds lie between the marketplaces of India and the halls of a magnificent country estate like Highland Hall. Will Julia be able to find her place when a governess is neither upstairs family nor downstairs help?

Missionary Julia Foster loves working alongside her parents, ministering and caring for young girls in India. But when the family must return to England due to illness, she readily accepts the burden for her parents’ financial support. Taking on a job at Highland Hall as governess, she quickly finds that teaching her four privileged, ill-mannered charges at a grand estate is more challenging than expected, and she isn’t sure what to make of the estate’s preoccupied master, Sir William Ramsey.

Widowed and left to care for his two young children and his deceased cousin Randolph’s two teenage girls, William is consumed with saving the estate from the financial ruin. The last thing he needs is any distraction coming from the kindhearted-yet-determined governess who seems to be quietly transforming his household with her persuasive personality, vibrant prayer life, and strong faith.

While both are tending past wounds and guarding fragile secrets, Julia and William are determined to do what it takes to save their families—common ground that proves fertile for unexpected feelings. But will William choose Julia’s steadfast heart and faith over the wealth and power he needs to secure Highland Hall’s future?


Series: Edwardian Brides
Paperback: 336 pages
Publisher: Multnomah Books (October 15, 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1601424965
ISBN-13: 978-1601424969
Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 5.4 x 1.1 inches
Shipping Weight: 6.4 ounces

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Carrie Turansky is the award-winning author of eleven inspirational romance novels and novellas. Her latest releases are Snowflake Sweethearts, A Man To Trust, and Surrendered Hearts. Her next book will be The Governess of Highland Hall, releasing 10/13. She has been a winner of the ACFW Carol Award, the Crystal Globe Award, and the International Digital Award. Carrie lives in central New Jersey with her husband, Scott, who is a pastor, author, speaker and counselor. They have five young adult children and three grandchildren. She and her family served in Kenya as missionaries, giving them a passion for what God is doing around the world. Carrie leads women's ministry at her church, and she enjoys gardening, reading, flower arranging, and cooking healthy meals for friends and Family. You may contact her through Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and her website: www.carrieturansky.com.

MY REVIEW
  The Governess of Highland Hall by Carrie Turansky is such an fantastic, exciting book to read. I love the way Carrie captures the feel and excitement of living and running a large estate. You feel like you are there.
  What caught me the most was how loving and kind Julia is toward to family and those she works for. She has a quick wit and also at times a quick tongue, but is so kind.
  Julia takes care of William’s children and his two nieces and what a job that is, but she does it with such love and ease as if she were made to do that.
  William has been hurt desperately and it is hard for him to trust any woman and he believes strongly that upper and lower class people should not become involved. Then his sister is drawn to the family gardener. Julia sides with Williams sister. Sparks begin to fly, not only because Sarah (Williams sister) likes the gardener, but because William starts to have feelings for Julia. That could never work out, but could it?
  I really enjoyed reading this romantic, suspenseful book. Where you can find romance, trust and forgiveness all in one.
Highly recommend.

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Thanks to WaterBrookMultnomah for providing this book for 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 255

Singularity by Steven James BOOK REVIEW

ABOUT SINGULARITY
When his friend is murdered, illusionist Jevin Banks is determined to find out what really happened. Drawn into a web of conspiracy and top-secret research on human consciousness, Jevin won't stop digging until the truth is revealed. Soon he uncovers a dark secret--one that could change the very fabric of human life on the planet.

Based on frightening scientific realities and bristling with mystery, suspense, and intrigue, Singularity is the riveting sequel to Placebo.




Series: The Jevin Banks Experience (Book 2)
Paperback: 464 pages
Publisher: Revell (November 5, 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0800734262
ISBN-13: 978-0800734268
Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 5.4 x 1.3 inches
Shipping Weight: 12.8 ounces

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Steven James is the bestselling author of the award-winning Patrick Bowers and Jevin Banks series. James has received wide critical acclaim for his work including two Publishers Weekly starred reviews, three Christy Awards, and as a finalist for an International Thriller Award. Steven is an active member of International Thriller Writers, the Authors Guild, Mystery Writers of America, and International Association of Crime Writers. He is also a contributing editor for Writer's Digest.

Steven has also penned books spanning the genres of prayer collections, dramas, monologues, a nine-book series on creative storytelling, YA fantasy, and inspirational nonfiction. He has a master's degree in storytelling and has taught writing and creative communication around the world. When he's not writing or speaking, you'll find him trail running, rock climbing, or drinking a dark roast coffee near his home in eastern Tennessee.

MY REVIEW
  Singularity by Steven James is an interesting book, but not a favorite of mine. I did enjoy the suspense of Singularity and the story line was O.K. Singularity was a book that just didn’t hold my interest.
  I think Steven James has a great mind for action and the torturous parts. That was the part of the book that kept me reading. My favorite chapter and it was very riveting was called Venom.
  I guess the things I didn’t like in this book were the very technical descriptions and also the descriptions of Las Vegas. I think Steven James just went on to much with these two things.
  Some people will enjoy this book, but it’s not for the faint of heart. Some parts are pretty gruesome.  I have read some other books by Steven James and this isn’t one of my favorites.

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I received my free copy from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group for my 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 255

Audrey Bunny by Angie Smith REVIEW & GIVEAWAY

ABOUT AUDREY BUNNY 
From best-selling women’s author Angie Smith (I Will Carry You, Mended) comes this sweet children’s book about a stuffed animal named Audrey Bunny who fears her imperfections make her unworthy of a little girl’s love. She'll learn the truth soon enough, and young readers will learn that everyone is special and wonderfully made by God.

ISBN: 9781433680458

Trim Size: 10.00 x 8.00 x 0.10 in

Page Count: 32

Weight: 1.03lb

Binding: Hardcover w/Dust Jacket

Status: Active

Publication Date: October 2013

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Angie Smith is the wife of Todd Smith (lead singer of Dove Award winning group Selah), author of I Will Carry You, What Women Fear, and Mended. She is one of the most popular speakers and blog writers in the country. She holds a Master’s degree in Developmental Psychology from Vanderbilt University and lives with her husband and daughters in Nashville, TN. Check out Angie's blog at AngieSmithonline.com. Angie loves receiving letters from readers like you. Please feel free to email her at angelac519@gmail.com. Though she is unable to respond to every email, she reads them all. Many thanks for reaching out!

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR 
Breezy Brookshire grew up in Indiana where she enjoyed, among many things, nature walks, reading, and drawing characters from her imagination. Being home educated allowed her the time to cultivate her interest in illustration. She was mostly self-taught in drawing. Breezy has illustrated for The Girlhood Home Companion, Queen Homeschool, and has recently illustrated Angie Smith's first children's book, Audrey Bunny (B&H Publishing Group, Oct. 2013). She designs paper dolls and embroidery patterns for her family's home businesses, Noble Rose Press and Clementine Pattern Co. respectively.  Breezy is a 22-year-old follower of Jesus Christ, and lives in Indiana with her sister and parents.


MY REVIEW
  Audrey Bunny by Angie Smith with illustrations by Breezy Brookshire is a beautiful, beautiful book. In the story and also illustrations.  The story is so sweet and loving that children and parents alike will just fall in love with it.
  Audrey Bunny had a mark over her heart and thought no one could ever love her. Finally she was chosen by a little girl, but Audrey tried to always hid her mark. The ending is so delightful and touching.
  The illustrations are so precious and colorful that your child will just love to look at the pictures again and again.
 Audrey Bunny will make a wonderful gift for your child/grandchild or a favorite child you know. This book will be long cherished by you and your children. I highly recommend it and just love this book.

Order from B&H Publishers

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I receive books free I am 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 255

AUDREY BUNNY GIVEAWAY
Leave a comment with your name and email address. You will not be entered unless you leave a comment AND your email address.

Here are the ways to get extra entries:
~Be or become a follower  +1
~Be or become an email subscriber +1
~Be or become a networked blog follower +1

Contest is only open in the U.S. and void where prohibited. Chances of winning are based on the number of entries and winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org.  ENTRY DEADLINE NOVEMBER 14, 2013

Winners

Sorry for not posting the winners names before now.

I will try to keep up with posting winners more quickly. So for all of the past winners Congratulations. Here is the list.

Jessica Wyatt won Rufus and Ryan by Kathleen Long Bostrom.

A very lucky Mozi Esmes Mom won Burning Sky by Lori Benton and Love's Awakening by Laura Frantz.

CSthankful won the DVD King's Faith.

Keep commenting and you might be the next winner.

I will be posting another giveaway today so watch for it.

Also thank you to all of you who comment and make my blog what it is.

Blessings and have a great day!