Lynette Eason-Author Interview & Book Giveaway

Today we welcome Lynette Eason the author of several books, today we will be talking about her newest book A Killer Among Us. Here is my review of this wonderful book http://thelifeandtimesofwanda.blogspot.com/2011/05/killer-among-us-by-lynette-eason.html


Welcome to Trinity Rose’s Garden Lynette!
Tell us about the featured book A Killer Among Us?

Here is the back cover blurb:
What happens when the hunter . . . becomes the hunted?

Kit Kenyon is a first-rate hostage negotiator. Noah Lambert is a good detective with excellent instincts. These new partners have hardly had time to get used to each other when they are thrown into a grisly murder case. As evidence mounts up and more victims are found, Kit and Noah realize they are on the hunt for a serial killer. The problem is, he may be hunting one of them too.

With nail-biting suspense, clever plot twists, and a hint of romance, A Killer Among Us is the latest thriller from Lynette Eason.


Do you have advice for a beginning author?
Write everyday if you can. If you can't, don't give up because you're not writing everyday. Learn the craft, do your homework, attend online writing classes with published authors, go to a writing conference and meet people, get a mentor if you can, don't take rejection personally, always be willing to learn, learn, learn. And be wiling to put yourself out there.

How do you choose your settings for each book?
So far, I've written about settings that I'm familiar with like my hometown of Spartanburg, SC and my college town of Columbia, SC. It keeps that part of the research simpler.

What would you do for a favorite vacation?
Go to a full service resort with free wifi and my family nearby for breaks from the writing. LOL.

Has being published changed your life?
And how! I'm so busy I can't see straight!

What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?
Traveling, hanging out with my family, playing the Wii, and just enjoying life.

What is one thing you have always wanted to do, but haven’t had the time or courage to do it?
Travel to Australia.

What do you find hardier to do come up with a character, get the scenery or the plot?
The plot, probably. I always have an idea, but fleshing it out is hard for me.

Thanks for taking the time answer questions for us and for donating a book.
You're quite welcome! Thanks so much for having me!!
Lynette

Lynette has donated her book A Killer Among Us as a giveaway.
One of you will be the owner of that great book.
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
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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 September 12, 2011 

Water's Edge by Robert Whitlow*A Review

Sometimes small towns hold the biggest secrets.
Ambitious young attorney Tom Crane is about to become a partner in a high-profile Atlanta law firm. But first he must clear one final matter from his docket-the closing of his deceased father's law practice in his hometown of Bethel, Georgia. Killed in a mysterious boating accident, John Crane didn't appear to leave his son anything except the hassle of wrapping up loose ends.
But instead of celebrating his promotion, Tom finds himself packing up his office, having suddenly been "consolidated." To add insult to injury, that same night his girlfriend breaks up with him . . . by letter.
Returning to Bethel with no sense of his future and no faith to fall back on, Tom just wants to settle his father's final affairs and get back to Atlanta. But then he runs into an unexpected roadblock-two million dollars of unclaimed money stashed in a secret bank account. And evidence that his father's death may not have been accidental. Worse still, a trail of data suggests his father played a role in an international fraud operation.
Tom follows the money into a tangled web of lies, theft, and betrayal. Along the way, he meets a woman who is as beguiling as she is beautiful. And her interest in the outcome of the case is just as high as his. She challenges Tom's assumptions . . . and his faith. Now he has to decide who he can trust-and how far a father's love can reach.

Paperback: 400 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (July 19, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1595544518
ISBN-13: 978-1595544513
Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 5.5 x 1.3 inches
Shipping Weight: 13.6 ounces

Robert Whitlow grew up in north Georgia. He graduated magna cum laude from Furman University with a BA in history in 1976 and received his JD with honors from the University of Georgia School of Law in 1979. A practicing attorney, he is a partner in a Charlotte, NC law firm. He and his wife Kathy have four children and two grandchildren.
Robert began writing in 1996. His novels are set in the South and include both legal suspense and interesting characterization. It is his desire to write stories that reveal some of the ways God interacts with people in realistic scenerios.



MY REVIEW
Robert Whitlow writes another winning book about law, lawyers, lies and deceit, but also full of love, compassion and faith in God. The three main characters, Tom, Rose and Elias are such winsome and easy to love characters.
Tom just goes to his hometown to close up his father’s business after he surprising death. He believes it will just be a very easy, quiet transition, but boy is he wrong.
The book was coming to a really nice part all things were working at then more major disasters happen. It is quite a ride through emotions. Several times this happens and I’m shocked and pleased at each part in this wonderful story.
I love the deep faith and love of God that Elias has. How he prays constantly for some people, even to the point of missing nights of sleep. Rose has deep faith also, but Tom hasn’t really thought about faith or God much at all during years of his life. Many things happen to awaken Tom up and he listens.
Also in Water’s Edge I love the friendship of some of the minor characters for Tom. How they remain friends even when the rest of the world is against him. They believe in him when the rest don’t want to have anything to do with them.
I really love books by Robert Whitlow and this one is one of his best. Highly recommend this book.


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Disclosure of Material Connection: I receive books free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their Book Review Blogger program/BookSneeze. I am not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express are my own. This is true of any book I review for any publisher or author; I will not review books where a positive review is required and I will always express my own opinions of each book received and read.

Shoebox Sam by Mary Brigid Barrett*A Review

Shoebox Sam, written by author Mary Brigid Barrett, conveys to readers the importance of loving and respecting one another. Throughout the day all kinds of people step through the doors of Sam’s shoe store, but when he is asked to give away one of his most prized possessions, he does so with a loving kindness that can only point readers to the giving heart of God.



The pink slippers on the wall catch her eye. “Those are the most beautiful shoes I’ve seen in all my life.”

Down at the corner of Magnolia and Vine, you’ll find the shop of Shoebox Sam--where old shoes become like new again and anyone in need finds a friend. Delia and Jessie spend Saturdays with Shoebox Sam, helping him with customers, rich and poor. They learn about giving and caring, loving and sharing. Then one day, when a customer notices a prized pair of shoes, they uncover their greatest lesson of all.

Page Count: 32

Paper Edge Description: Plain
Size: 8.9 wide x 11.3 high x 0.4 deep in. | 226 wide x 287 high x deep 10 mm
Weight: 0.85 lb | 385 gms

Available: July 2011
World
Publisher: Zonderkidz

Mary Brigid Barrett is an award-winning children's book author and illustrator. She is also president and executive director of the National Children's Book and Literacy Alliance, and editor of the NCBLA publication Our White House: Looking In, Looking Out. She lives in Massachusetts.

Frank Morrison is a nationally acclaimed artist who received a 2010 Image Award. He is also the Coretta Scott King Award-winning illustrator of Jazzy Miz Mozetta by Brenda C. Roberts. Morrison lives in Atlanta, Georgia, with his family. For additional information visit his website: www.morrisongraphics.com

MY REVIEW
This is a beautifully written story. It is about showing kindness to the less fortunate.
Shoebox Sam has a shoe-repair shop. Each Saturday two children, Delia and Jesse spend time there.
Shoebox gives coffee, doughnuts and sometimes shoes to those who can’t afford them.
The author uses simple words, yet says profound things to get her points across. The words Sam says are always kind and full of compassion.
The illustrator uses such bold, beautiful drawings. The pictures bring out the wonderful characters and make them come alive.
I highly recommend this delightful book.

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Thank you to Zonderkidz 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

The Boy Who Came Back From Heaven by Kevin and Alex Malarkey*A Review

In 2004, Kevin Malarkey and his six-year-old son, Alex, suffered an horrific car accident. The impact from the crash paralyzed Alex—and medically speaking, it was unlikely that he could survive. “I think Alex has gone to be with Jesus,” a friend told the stricken dad. But two months later, Alex awoke from a coma with an incredible story to share. Of events at the accident scene and in the hospital while he was unconscious. Of the angels that took him through the gates of heaven itself. Of the unearthly music that sounded just terrible to a six-year-old. And, most amazing of all . . . Of meeting and talking to Jesus. The Boy Who Came Back from Heaven is the true story of an ordinary boy’s most extraordinary journey. As you see heaven and earth through Alex’s eyes, you’ll come away with new insights on miracles, life beyond this world, and the power of a father’s love.

Alex survived but suffered traumatic injury to his brain and an internal decapitation. His skull was almost completely detached from his spinal column. Alex’s parents were told that injuries involving this extent of spinal alignment virtually always result in death. If Alex were to survive, he would be a quadriplegic, never breathe independently, swallow food, or speak.

Paperback: 264 pages
Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers; Reprint edition (June 28, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1414336071
ISBN-13: 978-1414336077
Product Dimensions: 8.1 x 5.5 x 0.9 inches
Shipping Weight: 9.6 ounces

“When I arrived in heaven, I was inside the gate. The gate was really tall, and it was white. It was very shiny, and it looked like it had scales like a fish. I was in the inner heaven and everything was brighter and more intense on the inside of the gate. It was perfect! Perfect is my favorite word for describing heaven.”—Alex Malarkey

Kevin Malarkey
Author Kevin Malarkey is a therapist with a counseling practice near Columbus, Ohio. He attended the College of Wooster and earned a graduate degree from Ohio State University. His academic background includes studies in clinical psychology, psychological assessment, and family counseling. Kevin has previous work experience developing educational programs, assessing psychological disorders, and counseling inner city youth and their families.
http://kevinmalarkey.wordpress.com/


Alex Malarkey (12) is the first child in the world to have received the “Christopher Reeve surgery,’ allowing him to breathe without a ventilator. He can stand in a supportive frame for an hour at a time and, with the help of a special harness, can walk on a treadmill while helpers move his legs. He believes that he will walk on his own again. He loves watching sports and cheering for his favorite teams, the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Ohio State Buckeyes


MY REVIEW
This is a true story with pictures of before and after the car accident.
I think as a whole most of us are skeptics. We only believe what we see for ourselves, but when we hear a story like this where for all reasons this little six-year-old boy, Alex should have died.
Then at different parts of the story we learn of miraculous things that are happening, we can believe.
Also young children don’t know everything about the Bible and Heaven, but then he tells his stories of Heaven, God, Angels and even the devil and demons.
I was amazed at how so many people prayed and believed Alex would make it, also at all of the money and things that came in when needed.
Sometimes when people write books about going to Heaven I don’t believe all of them, but I really believe that Alex went to Heaven and sees angels and is very close to the Lord.
I highly recommend this book as very encouraging and uplifting. Alex never gives up, has a fantastic attitude and loves Jesus so much.


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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

The Grace Card DVD-Review and GIVEAWAY

WITNESS THE POWER OF FORGIVENESS

Everything can change in an instant ... and take a lifetime to unravel.
When Mac McDonald loses his son in an accident, the ensuing 17 years of bitterness and pain erodes his love for his family and leaves him angry with God ... and just about everyone else.
Mac's rage stonewalls his career in the police department and makes for a combustible situation when he's partnered with Sam Wright, a rising star on the force who happens to be a part-time pastor and a loving family man.
Mac's home life is as frightening as anything he encounters on the streets of Memphis. Money is tight and emotions run high as he constantly argues with his wife and his surviving son Blake, who is hanging with the wrong crowd and in danger of flunking out of school.
Sam Wright also never expected to be a police officer. He has a calling—to be a minister like his Grandpa George. But leading a small, start-up church doesn't always put enough food on the table for a young family, so Sam doubles as a police officer. With his new promotion to Sergeant, Sam starts questioning if his real calling might actually be police work rather than the pastorate.
Can Mac and Sam somehow join forces to help one another when it's impossible for either of them to look past their differences—especially the most obvious one?
Every day, we have the opportunity to rebuild relationships and heal deep wounds by extending and receiving God's grace. Offer THE GRACE CARD ... and never underestimate the power of God's love.

Michael Joiner (Mac McDonald)
Actor and comedian Michael Joiner began his career in Hollywood in 1986 and he has been based in Kansas City since 1994. While the role of Mac in THE GRACE CARD is a dramatic one, Michael is best known as one of the nation's funniest "clean" comedians. He has been called, "One of the funniest, most original standup comedians working today," by TV Guide. In addition to appearing in major comedy clubs across the country, Michael has written for "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno." He has also appeared in various film, television, and commercial roles.
Michael also wrote, directed, and starred in a short film, Thanks for the Ride, which he refers to as a horror comedy. He is currently working on a number of television and film scripts that he hopes to produce, direct, and star in. Michael and his wife are the proud parents of three sons

Michael Higgenbottom (Sam Wright)
Michael Higgenbottom is an accomplished theater and commercial acting performer in Memphis. THE GRACE CARD is his first film and he costars with Michael Joiner and Louis Gossett Jr. Michael, who is also an aspiring poet and author, currently works in the aviation industry.
A Chicago native, Michael began pursuing his dream of acting after moving to Memphis in 2000. An alumni of Knoxville College and the University of Memphis, Michael is a twin, has a set of younger twin brothers, his twin sister has twins, and his grandmother had five sets of twins! Michael has ... no children.

Louis Gossett Jr. (George Wright)
Louis Gossett Jr., whose stellar career has endeared him to fans worldwide, is one of a select group of actors to win both an Academy Award and an Emmy Award. He is best known for his Academy Award-winning performance in the film classic, An Officer and a Gentleman and an Emmy for his role as Fiddler in the historic TV miniseries "Roots."
Louis appeared in his first Broadway role ("Take A Giant Step") in 1953 when he was just 16 years old. Among his other well-known productions: A Raisin in the Sun, The Deep, and countless guest-starring roles on popular television programs through the decades.
In 2006, Louis decided to focus his energies on fighting social ills when he founded The Eracism Foundation, a nonprofit organization designed to create a "conscious offensive against racism, violence and ignorance." Toward that end, the foundation has created programs focused on youth mentoring, anti-gang violence initiatives, and diversity sensitivity training sessions known as Shamba Centers.
His recently released autobiography is aptly entitled, An Actor and a Gentleman. Learn more at his website



Actors: Michael Joiner, Mike Higgenbottom, Louis Gossett Jr., Cindy Hodge, Joy Parmer Moore
Directors: David G. Evans
Writers: Howard Klausner
Producers: Howard Klausner, John Nasraway, John R. Saunders, Lynn Holmes, Timothy D. Brown
Format: AC-3, Closed-captioned, Color, Dolby, Dubbed, DVD, Subtitled, Widescreen, NTSC
Language: English
Subtitles: Cantonese, English, French, Korean, Spanish
Region: Region 1 (U.S. and Canada only. Read more about DVD formats.)
Aspect Ratio: 1.77:1
Number of discs: 1
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
DVD Release Date: August 16, 2011
Run Time: 101 minutes
ASIN: B005335K9A

MY REVIEW
WOW, this DVD is amazing. Most Christian movies I have viewed have been greatly lacking in their acting abilities.
The Grace Card is really different. This movie proves great actors and stories can come from the Christian community.
Besides the acting, the story itself is a winner. It is a very touching, emotional movie that will bring tears to your eyes.
The Grace Card is full of hurting, blame, loss, forgiveness and sacrifice.
The main story is when someone does something against you, you will forgive them and love them even if they don’t ask-that’s The Grace Card.
My three youngest children 17, 18 and 20 watched it and approved it. They are hard to please, but have really loved it and will watch it again.
The end of this movie is so fantastic and amazing you will be brought to tears.
I give this the highest rating possible. A must see movie!

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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.”


I will be giving away one DVD of The Grace Card to one very fortunate follower. Here is what you need to do to be included in the drawing.
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 September 10, 2011

The Lemonman-A Picnic, A Toad and Swampwater Road*A Review

Author Natasha Ferrill

Illustrator Jose Pou

The sing song rhymes, vibrant illustrations, and lovable characters intertwine to create storybook magic in The Lemonman picture book series. The first book in the series, A Picnic, a Toad and Swampwater Road, takes the young reader on a picnic adventure with The Lemonman and his friends, along with a trouble-making Pear and a swindling Toad. It is a delightful story about friendship, the gift of forgiveness, and the power of kindness toward others.
A Picnic, a Toad and Swampwater Road is a fun and entertaining story that will have both parents and children alike smiling a toad-like smile from beginning to end, leaving the reader wanting more adventures with The Lemonman and his friends on the street called Cherry Bay.


Perfect Paperback: 32 pages
Publisher: Applenook Publishing (June 30, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0986946400
ISBN-13: 978-0986946400
Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 8.3 x 0.1 inches
Shipping Weight: 4.8 ounces

Natasha was born and raised in a small town in Canada.
She attended and graduated from Carleton University, with a degree of Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Criminology and Criminal Justice with a concentration in Psychology. Although her true passion has been writing. She wanted to secure an education in something other than the arts so that she could start a career, while writing on the side. After working in various different project management positions, she accepted a job as a research assistant for a health centre and is doing that full-time, while writing in her spare time! She lives with her cat, Zoe – who is a bit of a princess. In her spare time she loves reading and writing, watching movies and her favourite TV shows and spending time with friends and family.
http://www.thelemonman.com/

MY REVIEW
The Lemonman- A Picnic, A Toad and Swampwater Road is a delightful book any child will love. Besides the pictures being colorful and inviting the rhyming words have a singing kind of way about them. The characters are so sweet and lovable. Even the name of the town is neat. It is called Applenook.
You will follow Lemonman as he wants to have a picnic with his friends, but get sidetracked and tricked into losing his picnic lunch. I like how the cunning, sneaky Toad gets taught a lesson, but is also shown compassion and forgiveness when he asks.
The best part of this book is that it is a series. I’m sure Lemonman will have so many more adventures and lessons to teach our child.
I highly recommend this book for a delightful read with lessons to be taught.

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Thank you to the author 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

Go Away, Mr. Worrythoughts & Happythoughts are Everywhere by Nicky Johnston*A Review

THIS IS A REVIEW FOR TWO DELIGHTFUL BOOKS

Nicky Johnston
Author, Illustrator & Educator

Nicky's eldest son, Bayley, was diagnosed with Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) at just 5 years of age. In her desperate efforts to help him manage his 'worry thoughts' she wrote him a story. This story is now a best selling children's book helping many 'little worriers' everywhere...

Nicky has self-published two highly successful children's books, developed Parent/Teacher Resource Kits and has helped promote awareness of mental health issues in young children by presenting to many schools, conferences and workshops.

By helping her son, she has touched the lives of many like him, and will continue to do so....

MY REVIEW OF GO AWAY MR WORRRYTHOUGHTS!
This book is just simply amazing. I really like that Nicky wrote these two books to help her son with his disorder GAD. I love how Bayden finally finds out how to stop worrying about everything. A lot of people need to do that themselves. We all worry too much.
All of the illustrations are so neat. The worry thoughts monster seems really scary, but he can be taken care of.
The worrythoughts try to come back, but now Bayden knows how to get rid of them and how to control them. I like the colors in this book, the monster is dark and scary, but the other pages are light and colorful. Full of hope and happiness is what you can expect from this super book.
I really recommend it for any of us, but especially for those children who may worry more than normal. In the back of this book are some ideas to keep worrythoughts away from a child.

MY REVIEW OF HAPPYTHOUGHTS ARE EVERYWHERE
Another really sweet book. I love how cute and cuddly Bayden looks. In this book Bayden was worrying again so his mum told him to think happythoughts and that would push the worrythoughts away. So Bayden searches for happy thoughts under his bed in his toy box, in his closet. He only found his teddy bear, the Christmas decorations and special photos. So Bayden thought he couldn’t find happythoughts, but thought how each of those things made him feel and it was happy. So he did find happythoughts after all.
In the back of this book you will also find ways to find happythoughts.
These are just lovely books that really give a child joy. Another book I highly recommend.

Nicky Johnston is an educator, an artist, a make-up artist and a mum of four boys.
Nicky is now also the author & illustrator of two children's books "Go Away, Mr Worrythoughts!" and "Happythoughts are Everywhere..."





Order both book here
http://www.nickysart.com.au/

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Thank you to the author 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

Heather Song by Michael Phillips*A Review

Newly married, Marie and Alaster Reidhaven's life seems idyllic. But things start to fall apart when the Duke's sister's curses and spells start to plague them. Alaster dies and again Marie is widowed. Marie returns to Canada to visit her dying father. The reunion is tender and healing for them both.

Unexpectedly months later, Marie is astonished to learn that back in Scotland, her deceased husband Alaster never signed their pre-nup and had instead undertaken the legalities necessary to insure his estate would indeed go to Marie. Olivia is furious and full of threats and attempts to kill Marie and then disappears. Marie inherits and again assumes the title and role of duchess.

But now the other half of her former "love triangle" bubbles up from out of her past. Marie and Grahm begin seeing each other "as friends" awaiting God's leading.

Olivia reappears and again tries to kill Marie. Olivia eventually dies of cancer, unrepentant. The Reidhaven family line is at an end, the legacy of their memory to be carried forward by Marie who loved, in the end, all of them.

Format: Kindle Edition
File Size: 5 KB
Publisher: FaithWords (September 19, 2011)
Sold by: Hachette Book Group
Language: English
ASIN: B004QZ9QT6

In 1970, while students at Humboldt State University, Mike and Judy Phillips began what would become the One Way BookShop as a small, informal source of Christian books and materials for their fellow students. Over the next two decades God prospered those small beginnings, and now the bookstore is a thriving part of the Humboldt County Christian community.
Mike's first published book was about his wife's pregnancy and the birth of their twin sons. After several more nonfiction titles, Mike undertook a lifelong dream to renew the popularity of Scottish writer George MacDonald, whose teachings had been central to Mike and Judy's spiritual growth. Mike began editing some of MacDonald's lengthy novels, heavy with Scottish brogue, into shorter and more readable editions, with some of the work being done right at the bookstore counter between customers.
Through the years, God has continued to guide Mike in the production of books emphasizing strong spiritual values and unforgettable characters. In addition to being best sellers in Christian bookstores all across the country, Mike's books have been offered through several book clubs, have been translated into a number of foreign languages, and have been published in over 120 editions in all, with sales of over 3 million. Mike is today recognized as one of the Christian bookselling industry's most prolific and versatile authors.
Family is very important to Mike. He and his wife, Judy, have taught their three sons, Patrick, Robin, and Gregory, at home throughout their education. Home schooling enables the family to frequently accompany Mike in his work-related travels.
It has always been Mike's desire in his writing that all who read his books will find a closer and more real walk with God through the characters and stories. Both he and Judy enjoy responses from readers and find great encouragement from the letters they receive.


MY REVIEW
I’ve read quite a few books by Michael Phillips and Heather Song is just wonderful. Michael’s books are not light reading and they are full of insights and lessons.
Heather Song takes place at the Castle Buchan at Port Scarnose, Scotland.
This book is full of beautiful descriptions of Scotland.
Heather Song has everything in it from beautiful friendships, dark evil, good vs. evil, suspense, cliff hangers and precious loves stories.
I really love how the characters in the story love harp music, those who who were blessed with, playing and those just learning. It made such an impression on me that I want to find out more about harps and playing them.
Micheal Phillips tells really special stories with great twists and turns. I was amazed at all the things that happened in a single book. I highly recommend Heather Song. A fantastic book with great meaning.



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I received my free copy from Sarah Reck at Faith Words/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

Learning by Karen Kingsbury* A Review

Learning (Bailey Flanigan Series Book 2)

Bailey Flanigan is growing closer to her dream to be an actress and dancer in New York while Cody coaches a small high school football team ... on and off the field. But neither feels complete without the chance to share their dreams with one other. Can distance truly make the heart grow fonder? Or will Cody learn to turn to others to share in his happiness? And when tragedy strikes? Who will be there to provide comfort in the face of loss? As Cody's past catches up with him, he must learn to reach out for help or risk withdrawing permanently inside himself. Both Bailey and Cody find themselves learning significant life lessons in this poignant love story, featuring members from Karen Kingsbury's popular Baxter family.


Paperback: 352 pages
Publisher: Zondervan (June 21, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0310276330
ISBN-13: 978-0310276333
Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.4 x 1.1 inches
Shipping Weight: 13.6 ounces

New York Times bestselling author Karen Kingsbury is America's favorite inspirational novelist, with more than 15 million books in print. Her Life-Changing Fiction has produced multiple bestsellers, including Leaving, Take One, Between Sundays, Even Now, One Tuesday Morning, Beyond Tuesday Morning, and Ever After, which was named the 2007 Christian Book of the Year. An award-winning author and newly published songwriter, Karen has several movies optioned for production, and her novel Like Dandelion Dust was made into a major motion picture and is now available on DVD. Karen is also a nationally known speaker with several women's groups. She lives in Washington with her husband, Don, their daughter and five sons.

MY REVIEW
In Learning Bailey and Cody are still denying their feelings for each other. Bailey is leaning that life isn’t always easy. When God gives us a chance to share our faith of pray for someone we need to do it immediately. We may never be given another chance. Things on Broadway aren’t going great. There is talk among her cast mates that Bailey only got he part because of her role in the movie with Brandon Paul.
Bailey won’t call/text Cody because she feels he needs to make the next move.
Cody is taking his losing high school football team to camp and teaching them how to care for each other. He wants them to grow close to God.
Both Bailey and Cody are growing closer to Brandon and Cheyenne, but will they forget the love they had for each other?
The other part of Learning Landon and Ashley as they find out about Landon’s lungs. Will he have a fatal disease and if so what will he do for his life work? Landon has only known and loved firefighting.
I feel this is the best part of the book, Ashley and Landon’s story.
I don’t care much for Bailey and Cody right now as they are making dumb mistakes and choices, but that is how we all learn. I love Karen Kingsbury books and recommend this one.

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Thank you to Zondervan 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

The Colonel's Lady by Laura Frantz*A Review

Roxanna Rowan may be a genteel Virginia woman, but she is determined to brave the wilds of the untamed frontier to reach a remote Kentucky fort. Eager to reunite with her father, who serves under Colonel Cassius McLinn, Roxanna is devastated to find that her father has been killed on a campaign.


Penniless and out of options, Roxanna is forced to remain at the fort. As she spends more and more time with the fiery Colonel McLinn, the fort is abuzz with intrigue and innuendo. Can Roxanna truly know who the colonel is--and what he's done?

Immerse yourself in this powerful story of love, faith, and forgiveness set in the tumultuous world of the frontier in 1779.



Paperback: 408 pages

Publisher: Revell; Original edition (August 1, 2011)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 080073341X

ISBN-13: 978-0800733414

Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.5 x 1.1 inches

Shipping Weight: 12 ounces

Laura Frantz credits her 100-year-old grandmother as being the catalyst for her fascination with Kentucky history. Frantz's family followed Daniel Boone into Kentucky in 1792 and settled in Madison County, where her family still resides. Frantz is the author of The Frontiersman's Daughter and currently lives in the misty woods of Washington state with her husband and two sons.





MY REVIEW

Laura Frantz is a most excellent author. At every turn in the story I was delighted, surprised and fulfilled. The Colonel’s Lady is a story well told. This is the third book by Laura Frantz and she out does herself with each new book. She seems like she has been writing novels for decades.

The Colonel’s Lady was written in 1779 in the Kentucke Territory. I have never read of this time period, but learned so much about the things they did, ate and houses they lived in.

I really came to love Roxanna. She has such a sweet spirit but still at times she battled with forgiveness. Roxanna went through much heartache throughout the story, but she kept her faith strong in the Lord.

Cass is the Colonel of the fort where Roxanna’s father lives. She went many miles to be with her father. Cass is truly a gentleman from Ireland, but a Colonel that takes his job very seriously.

Put together, a genteel Virginia woman, the fiery Colonel Cassius McLinn, four fallen women, a mute child, with a fort full of men, and you will have all kinds of mystery, intrigue, love, faith and forgiveness.

I love many parts of this book from the beautiful cover, to the charming characters, the precious child and the most endearing love story.

My most favorite part was the surprise of who the spy was. I never would have guessed.

The Colonel’s Lady is highly recommend by me. A must read and a keeper. Can’t get enough of Laura Frantz’s books. Fantastic five-star book.


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I received my free copy from Donna Hausler 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

WINNER of It's all In Christian CD by Robert Pierre and MESSAGE~Please Read

The winner of the Robert Pierre Christian CD I'm all In is

Kelly at dkcountryarts

If you didn't win this CD, but would like another chance a friend of mine is having a giveaway

of this CD until August 9. So go over there. Here is the link and tell her Trinity Rose sent you.

http://bornagainandblessed.blogspot.com/2011/07/cd-review-im-all-in-by-robert-pierre.html

ALSO very important I'm going on vacation for a couple of weeks and won't be posting until

I get home, around the 23rd of August. I will have more giveaways and more reviews when I get

home. Thanks for your friendship and your comments.

I appreciate each and every one of you.

Have a blessed day!

The Berenstain Bears: Here's the Church, Here's the Steeple by Jan & Mike Berenstain*A Review

Join the Berenstain Bear family and discover all that goes on in both the Chapel in the Woods and Sunday school with this fun and interactive lift-the-flap.









Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback: 16 pages
Publisher: Zonderkidz (February 15, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0310720818
ISBN-13: 978-0310720812
Product Dimensions: 7.9 x 7.7 x 0.2 inches
Shipping Weight: 3.5 ounces

Stan and Jan Berenstain introduced the first Berenstain Bear books in 1962. Mike Berenstain grew up watching his parents work together to write about and draw these lovable bears. Eventually he started drawing and writing about them too. Though Stan died in 2005, Jan and Mike continue to create the delightful Bear adventures from their family home in Pennsylvania, in an area that looks much like the sunny dirt road deep in Bear Country

MY REVIEW
I’ve always loved The Berenstain Bears and now they are even more precious with the Christian/Biblical truths. I was quite amazed and very happily so. The Berenstain Bears have always showed upstanding topics about being fair, having table manners, all things every child needs to know, but the new Living Lights books in The Berenstain Bears series is totally to cool.
Here’s the Church, Here’s the Steeple shows the bear family heading off to church. How they enjoy church and Sunday School. The book has amazing Lift-The-Flap pages which I think make a book even more special. Every child loves to see the surprise behind the flap.
I love the very colorful pages and how sweet and loving the expressions on the Bears faces always is. Reading about The Berenstain Bears always gives you a warm, loving feeling.
This book as are many of The Berenstain Bears books is for children ages 2-5. Just a wonderful age to be learning all kinds of things. This book will be a favorite for many years to come and will be a treasured book among your collection.
Yes, I highly recommend this book for your sweet child, grandchild or special friend.
I really love it myself.


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Thank you to Zonderkidz 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

Who is Simon Miller? DVD review

We be on NBC August 6 at 8/7c

Like most families, the Millers have their challenges. Simon’s (Loren Dean) frequent business trips have created some distance between him and the rest of the family, leaving Meredith (Robyn Lively) stretched and struggling to keep things together. Daughter Sarah, an 18-year-old honor student, has recently gotten herself into trouble at school while son Kevin, 15, struggles to engage with anything outside of a video game…
But these issues all prove to be trivial when Simon goes missing. Sensing something is not right, the family frantically searches Simon’s office for information. Discovery of a stash of passports, all with Simon’s picture but each with a different alias, reveals that their father has been keeping more than a few secrets. In a frantic phone call, Simon urges the family not to tell anyone of his disappearance, not even the authorities, right before the line goes dead. Who is Simon Miller? And what exactly has he gotten himself – and now his family – into?
Shocked, scared and unsure if they can even trust the dad they thought they knew, the three embark on their own international mission to get him back. With Meredith’s sharp instincts, Sarah’s foreign language skills and Kevin’s natural techgenius, they try to unravel the mystery behind his disappearance. It’s a heartpounding family thriller that tests the limits to which families will fight for each other

http://www.familymovienight.com/who-is-simon-miller/
http://www.facebook.com/familymovienight
http://www.youtube.com/fmnib

Paolo Barzman
Director
Joel Rice
Executive Producer

Loren Dean plays Simon Miller

Robyn Lively plays Meredith Miller

Skyler Day plays Sarah Miller
Drew Koles plays Kevin Miller
Christine Baranski plays Amanda
Olunike Adeliyi plays Jasmine


MY REVIEW
This is a very interesting DVD. It isn’t Christian, but just plain good. Nothing that you wouldn’t want you whole family to see.
It is a spy drama, but also has its funny parts and shows a close-knit family.
The wife and two children had no clue that their dad/husband is a spy. He always came home exactly when he said he would, but their family times got interpreted often.
Then one day he never came home and the wife and kids started snooping in his office and found many interesting things that just didn’t add up.
They find out who he is and find out that he is missing, so they get clues that lead them overseas. With the three of them they come up with more clues, more ideas to find their dad and get right in the middle of trouble.
This is a fun, sweet movie because it shows you how much a family that loves each other will do to help each other out. They don’t give up.
I recommend Who is Simon Miller for your viewing pleasure. It would make a great movie to watch with the family on your movie night. It’s not a scary kind of spy movie, just family based.


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“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a DVD 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.”

Life, In Spite of Me by Kristen Jane Anderson with Tricia Goyer~A review

She wanted to die. God had other plans.

Why does my life have to be so painful?
What’s wrong with me?
It’s not going to get better.
It could all be over soon, and then I won’t hurt anymore.

Kristen Anderson thought she had the picture-perfect life until strokes of gray dimmed her outlook: three friends and her grandmother died within two years. Still reeling from these losses, she was raped by a friend she thought she could trust. She soon spiraled into a seemingly bottomless depression.

One January night, the seventeen-year-old decided she no longer wanted to deal with the emotional pain that smothered her. She lay down on a set of cold railroad tracks and waited for a freight train to send her to heaven…and peace.

But Kristen's story doesn’t end there.

In Life, In Spite of Me this remarkably joyful young woman shares the miracle of her survival, the agonizing aftermath of her failed suicide attempt, and the hope that has completely transformed her life, giving her a powerful purpose for living.

Her gripping story of finding joy against all odds provides a vivid and unforgettable reminder that life is a gift to be treasured.

Includes notes of encouragement Kristen wishes she had received when she was struggling most.


Hardcover: 224 pages
Publisher: Multnomah Books; 1 edition (May 4, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1601422520
ISBN-13: 978-1601422521
Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6 x 0.9 inches
Shipping Weight: 14.1 ounces

Kristen Jane Anderson has been featured on Oprah and is a popular speaker at colleges, women's and youth events, churches, and suicide prevention outreaches. A graduate of Moody Bible Institute and the founder of Reaching You Ministries, Kristen seeks to help those who are hurting, hopeless, lost, suicidal and depressed.

Tricia Goyer is the author of twenty-six books including Beside Still Waters, The Swiss Courier, and the mommy memoir, Blue Like Play Dough. She won Historical Novel of the Year in 2005 and 2006 from ACFW, and was honored with the Writer of the Year award from Mt. Hermon Writer's Conference in 2003. Tricia's book Life Interrupted was a finalist for the Gold Medallion in 2005. In addition to her novels, Tricia writes non-fiction books and magazine articles for publications like MomSense and Thriving Family. Tricia is a regular speaker at conventions and conferences, and has been a workshop presenter at the MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) International Conventions. She and her family make their home in Little Rock, Arkansas where they are part of the ministry of FamilyLife. Visit www.triciagoyer.com for more about Tricia and her books.


MY REVIEW
I love a book that tells of someone’s life. The struggles they go through, the pain they endure and most of the times finding their way to the Lord, the giver, lover of life.

In this book Life, In Spite of Me Extraordinary Hope After a Fatal Choice, Kristen tells of how other members in her family suffered depression, how her grandmother died, how several of her friends committed suicide and how she was raped. She didn’t know how to handle all of these things and she didn’t plan on trying to kill herself, but her thoughts just lead her to attempting it. She laid down on the tracks and waited.

Well God didn’t want her to die, but she endured many things one being horrific pain and suffering.

As the story goes on you will experience Kristen’s path back through so many operations, her many hospital stays including her different stays in a mental hospital, also tremendous pain.

I just loved reading about all of the miracles that were happening during the suicide attempt and during her recovery time. How God really had/has a job for her.
Kristen discovered the way to real life and a purpose for living through Jesus.

Today Kristen is a public speaker on suicide prevention and talks to many people on a personal basic. She is doing a great job for the Lord.

Included in the book is her website and a suicide warning list. This book was put together with very much love. I highly recommend this book for a very interesting read or it could be a great tool to help someone who doesn’t think they are worth anything or no one cares if they live or die.

Kristen is a very caring, loving person who knows God has plans for all of His people. Never give up is what this book tells us.

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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