My First Hands-On Bible a review

My First Hands-On Bible
This Pretty Pink deluxe edition of My First Hands-On Bible is the preschooler version of the popular Hands-On Bible, which has sold nearly one million copies. Jesus taught with hands-on lessons and illustrations; My First Hands-On Bible uses the same experience-based learning to communicate God’s Word in an active, understandable way.

My First Hands-On Bible is a fun and simple, yet meaningful way to engage preschool, prekindergarten, and kindergarten children (ages 3–6) with the Bible while helping them build a solid faith foundation. Each lesson focuses on a specific Bible point through a variety of activities in order to reinforce and help young children remember the stories and lessons. Using common household items, you can help your children have a “hands-on” learning experience while engaging them in 85 key stories from the Bible.

My First Hands-On Bible doesn’t just retell the Bible stories; it also includes actual Scripture from the easy-to-understand and easy-to-read Holy Bible, New Living Translation. In addition to the stories and activities, there are fun illustrations, prayers, and a special Jesus Connection feature.

Age Range: 3 and up
Imitation Leather: 416 pages
Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.; Lea edition (September 1, 2015)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1496406443
ISBN-13: 978-1496406446
Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds

MY REVIEW
   The My First Hands-On Bible comes in a very pretty pink color and the feel of the Bible is so soft. Any little girl will just love to own one. The Bible takes many stories from the Old and New Testaments.
  Some of the stories are God Creates the World, God Parts the Red Sea, Jericho’s Falling Walls,  Jesus is Born, Jesus Loves Children, Life in Heaven, Jesus Will Come Back. There are many, many more stories with full, beautiful, colorful pictures.
  There are hands-on activities. During different stories you will come across colored handprints. When you see a handprint you stop reading and do an activity with your child.
  Each passage ends with a prayer and questions.
   There are places called Pockets and Cuddles. The pockets show a little Kangaroo that tells you it’s time to pray. Also Cuddles the Lamb leads you in more activities.
  Then there is the section called Jesus Connection. Your child will see that Jesus is the center of all scripture. And your child will know that Jesus is a real part of life.
  I highly recommend this first Hands-on Bible for any child from 3-6 years of age. Really precious Bible.


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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

Old Fashioned novel and The Old Fashioned Way study guide REVIEWS

TWO REVIEWS-ONE NOVEL/ONE STUDY GUIDE

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ABOUT OLD FASHIONED
Former frat boy Clay Walsh has given up his reckless lifestyle and settled down to run an antique shop in a small Midwestern college town. Determined to put his partying ways behind him, Clay has become notorious for his lofty and outdated theories on love and romance. But when Amber Hewson, a free-spirited woman with a gypsy soul, rents the apartment above his shop, Clay can’t help being attracted to her spontaneous and passionate embrace of life.

New to the area, Amber finds herself surprisingly drawn to Clay and his noble ideas, but her own fears and deep wounds are difficult to overcome. Can they move beyond their differences and their pasts to attempt an “old-fashioned” courtship?

Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. (December 18, 2014)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1414379331
ISBN-13: 978-1414379333
Product Dimensions: 0.8 x 5.5 x 8.2 inches
Shipping Weight: 9.1 ounces

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Rene Gutteridge is the author of eighteen novels, including Escapement, Possession, Listen, Never the Bride (2011 Carol Award Winner), The Boo Series, The Storm Series, The Occupational Hazards Series and My Life as a Doormat, a Women of Faith selection for 2006. She has a degree in Mass Communications with an emphasis in screenwriting and twenty years of experience writing, directing and publishing comedy sketches. She writes in both comedy and suspense genres. Her upcoming releases from Tyndale House Publishers: Heart of the Country, Misery Loves Company and Old Fashioned. From B&H Publishers: Greetings from the Flipside co-written with Cheryl McKay.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Rik Swartzwelder grew up in New Philadelphia, Ohio, a small town in the northeast corner of the state, near both Amish country and the birthplace of the National Football League. A former stand-up comic and sketch writer who almost became a preacher, he has worked as a radio DJ, public relations director, video store clerk, security guard, maintenance man, and college professor. He earned his MFA in Motion Picture Production from The Florida State University and was honored with a gubernatorial appointment to the Florida Institute for Film Education. He wrote, directed, and acted in the feature film OLD FASHIONED, which inspired both a novel and a non-fiction companion book (both based on his screenplay and published by Tyndale House Publishers). As a writer-producer-director, his films have screened at over 145 film festivals worldwide and garnered over 50 major awards, including a Crystal Heart, a national "Student" Emmy, and a CINE Special Jury Award.


MY REVIEW
  If you watched the movie Old Fashioned you will love the book written from the screenplay. I love books more than the movies and this book is really fantastic. Lots of the same parts from the movie, but you can really get a clear, sweet picture from the book.
  Written by Rene Gutteridge which I know is a fantastic author and Rik Swartzwelder who wrote the screenplay and helped put this book together, really is talented.
  Really an interesting book, but my favorite part was the last chapter. It is so sweet and tender. Full of love and compassion. I recommend this for all of you lovers of romance.

  Review for The Old Fashioned Way book on dating, courtship and romance below.

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ABOUT THE OLD FASHIONED WAY
Contrary to popular opinion, being “old fashioned” doesn’t mean you’re dull or unromantic. In fact, a true old-fashioned relationship can be more exciting and romantic than anything you’ve ever experienced! So what does it mean to do things The Old Fashioned Way? Sure, it means opening doors, holding out chairs, and taking things slow. But a true old-fashioned romance goes much deeper than that. Inspired by the motion picture Old Fashioned, this book will show you how to reclaim the lost art of romance by introducing you to romantic love as God intended it—for all of us. Regardless of your past experiences, where you’ve been, or where you are now, you can find and create a love that will last a lifetime.

As you work your way through this 40-day journey of inspiring readings and questions for reflection, you’ll discover all the unique and amazing benefits of doing things the old-fashioned way and be well on your way to creating a love story for the ages.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Ginger Kolbaba is on a journey to embrace joy in every moment. She doesn't always succeed (she's a recovering cynic, after all), but she loves to learn from the adventure of the pursuit. She loves a good laugh, a ready smile, a dog's smooch, great food (vegetarian, thanks), growing faith, and remembering that love is all-powerful. She also claims one of her greatest gifts is ranting (good-naturedly, of course).

An accomplished author, Ginger has written, ghostwritten, collaborated, or contributed to more than 20 books, including her upcoming The Old Fashioned Way, set to release in January 2015.
Visit her at www.GingerKolbaba.com.



MY REVIEW
  The Old Fashioned Way written by Ginger Kolbaba is an excellent study guide on dating, courtship and romance.
Each chapter introduces a different subject and tells of different situations that can occur and how to handle them in your relationship.
  After each chapter is a part for reflecting what you have learned it is called Consider this and some chapters have you doing some journaling. Or there might be a quiz or something to pray about.
  Really a full kind of study that will get you thinking and help you with all of the things that come up.
  I highly recommend this book.


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“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one of the products  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.”

June Bug by Chris Fabry A REVIEW

ABOUT JUNE BUG
June Bug believed everything her daddy told her. That is, until she walked into Wal-Mart and saw her face on a list of missing children. The discovery begins a quest for the truth about her father, the mother he rarely speaks about, and ultimately herself. A modern interpretation of Les Miserables, the story follows a dilapidated RV rambling cross-country with June Bug and her father, a man running from a haunted past. Forces beyond their control draw them back to Dogwood, West Virginia, down a winding path that will change their lives forever.

Paperback: 336 pages
Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. (July 23, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1414319568
ISBN-13: 978-1414319568
Product Dimensions: 0.8 x 5.5 x 8.5 inches
Shipping Weight: 12 ounces

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
I graduated from the W. Page Pitt School of Journalism at Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia. I have been married to Andrea since 1982. We have nine children. In October of 2008 our family evacuated our house in Colorado, leaving behind all our belongings because of a toxic mold situation. Since then we have been living near Tucson, Arizona, working on recovering our health after the mold exposure.

Stop by my website at www.chrisfabry.com to learn more about my writing and radio endeavors, and be sure to sign up for my online newsletter, the FABRYGRAM. I can also be found on Facebook and Twitter, or you can email me at chris@chrisfabry.com

MY REVIEW
  June Bug by Chris Fabry is an excellent novel. I thoroughly enjoyed it and glad that I read it.
  The characters are so life like and you can really live the story through them. I really came to love
June Bug and her “Dad”.  Usually I don’t care for books that are told through the eyes of a child/young person. To me it seems to be lacking something, but with June Bug it wasn’t that way. June Bug was not only told through a young girl, but also others.
  June Bug talks about Walmart and WV which are close to me so it really is a down to earth type of read.  Don’t get me wrong there is also lots of adventure and family tradgies that add so much to the book.
  When you read this book you will feel fulfilled and hopeful. It has a wonderful, but sort of sad ending. I guess you could say happy and sad together. Very highly recommended. You will be glad you read this book.

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This is my own book. I didn’t need to review it.

The Last Plea Bargain by Randy Singer * A review and Book certificate GIVEAWAY

ABOUT THE LAST PLEA BARGAIN
Plea bargains may grease the rails of justice, but for Jamie Brock, prosecuting criminals is not about cutting deals. In her three years as assistant DA, she’s never plea-bargained a case and vows she never will. But when a powerful defense attorney is indicted for murder and devises a way to bring the entire justice system to a screeching halt, Jamie finds herself at a crossroads. One by one, prisoners begin rejecting deals. Prosecutors are overwhelmed, and felons start walking free on technicalities. To break the logjam and convict her nemesis, Jamie must violate every principle that has guided her young career. But she has little choice. To convict the devil, sometimes you have to cut a deal with one of his demons.



Paperback: 432 pages
Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. (March 1, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1414333218
ISBN-13: 978-1414333212

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Randy Singer is a critically acclaimed, award-winning author and veteran trial attorney. He has penned more than 10 legal thrillers and was recently a finalist with John Grisham and Michael Connelly for the inaugural Harper Lee Prize for Legal Fiction sponsored by the University of Alabama School of Law and the ABA Journal. Randy runs his own law practice and has been named to Virginia Business magazine's select list of "Legal Elite" litigation attorneys. In addition to his law practice and writing, Randy serves as teaching pastor for Trinity Church in Virginia Beach, Virginia. He calls it his "Jekyll and Hyde thing"—part lawyer, part pastor. He also teaches classes in advocacy and civil litigation at Regent Law School and, through his church, is involved with ministry opportunities in India. He and his wife, Rhonda, live in Virginia Beach. They have two grown children. Visit his website at www.randysinger.net.


MY REVIEW
  This is the first book I’ve read of Randy Singer’s and I’m so glad I found a new author. This book The Last Plea Bargain was just fantastic.
   I’ve always believed that an author who has been a doctor/nurse, police officer/detective or in this case lawyer make the best author, because they know so much more about their kind of stories than anyone else. They have so many cases they can pull information from. I just love Randy’s book because it seems so real.
  The Last Plea Bargain I couldn’t wait to read it and couldn’t get away from it, but was sad when I read the last page. Characters in books just become your friend and The Last Plea Bargain was that kind of book.
  The Last Plea Bargain is full of suspense and all kinds of twists and turns. I was so very surprised at the ending and what a climatic ending it was. I was sitting on the edge of my seat and read the pages as fast as I could.
  I really thought the concept of The Last Plea Bargain was neat. What would happen if everyone who was caught doing something wrong wanted to go to jail instead of taking a shorter or no sentence if they could provide some needed information to the police. Very interesting.
  The Last Plea Bargain is very strong in words and characters. It isn’t simple or weak, but full of very interesting action.
  This book is the most extraordinary legal thriller I  have read and will definitely read many more of Randy Singer’s books.
A five-star book and one of the best of 2012.

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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 LAST PLEA BARGAIN book CERTIFICATE
The prize is a certificate valid for one copy of The Last Plea Bargain AND a signed book plate from Randy.  The certificate can be redeemed at the winner’s local Christian bookstore (US only) or through Tyndale (if there is no local store).

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  March 31, 2012

Stuart Brannon's Final Shot by Stephen Bly with Janet, Russell, Michael and Aaron Bly* A Review

ABOUT STUART BRANNON'S  FINAL SHOT
In 1905, at age 58, legendary lawman Stuart Brannon — now a rancher and widower — had no intention of leaving his beloved Arizona Territory to attend the Lewis and Clark Centennial Exposition in Oregon, nor to participate in a celebrity golf tournament. His life no longer consisted of men to track down . . . people trying to kill him . . .gangs preying on the innocent. Then the telegram came: Stuart, I need you in Portland. Tim Wiseman is missing. I think there’s a cover-up going on . . . I’ll contact you there. T.R. How could he refuse a request from the President of the United States?



Library Binding: 400 pages
Publisher: Center Point Pub; Lrg edition (March 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1611733545
ISBN-13: 978-1611733549
Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 5.8 x 1.5 inches
Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds


Stephen Bly (August 17, 1944 – June 9, 2011) authored 106 books and hundreds of articles and short stories. His book, The Long Trail Home (Broadman & Holman), won the prestigious 2002 Christy Award for excellence in Christian fiction in the category western novel. Three other books, Picture Rock (Crossway Books), The Outlaw’s Twin Sister (Crossway Books), and Last of the Texas Camp (Broadman & Holman), were Christy Award finalists. He spoke at colleges, churches, camps and conferences across the U.S. and Canada. He was the pastor of Winchester Community Church, and served as mayor of Winchester, Idaho (2000-2007). He spoke on numerous television and radio programs, including Dr. James Dobson’s Focus on the Family. He was an Active Member of the Western Writers of America. Steve graduated summa cum laude in Philosophy from Fresno State University and received a M.Div from Fuller Theological Seminary. The Blys have three sons: Russell (married to Lois) and father of Zachary and Miranda (married to Chris Ross) and mother of Alayah; Michael (married to Michelle); and Aaron (married to Rina Joye) and father of Keaton and Deckard. A third generation westerner, Steve spent his early years working on California farms owned by his father and an uncle.

Janet Chester Bly has authored and co-authored with Stephen Bly thirty nonfiction and fiction books, including Awakening Your Sense of Wonder, Hope Lives Here, The Heart of a Runaway, The Hidden West Series and The Carson City Chronicles. She lives at 4,000 ft. elev. in Winchester, Idaho. Find out more at http://www.blybooks.com/ or http://www.blybooks.blogspot.com/



Russell Bly is married to Lois, father of Zachary and Miranda (married to Chris Ross), and grandfather of 1-year-old Alayah. He is manager of Deranleau’s department store in Moscow, Idaho.

Michael Bly is married to Michelle and is Director of Business Operations for Inland Cellular in Lewiston, Idaho.

Aaron Bly is married to Rina, father of Keaton and Deckard. He’s Manufacturing Supervisor for Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories in Lewiston, Idaho.

Filled with humor and heart, adventure and romance, Stuart Brannon’s Final Shot is the story of a man who embodied the Code of the West. Christy Award–winning author Stephen Bly (August 17, 1944 – June 9, 2011) wrote 105 books including six Stuart Brannon novels. In Stuart Brannon’s Final Shot, we bid a fond farewell to the character — and to Stephen Bly, his creator.

http://blybooks.com/wordpress/

MY REVIEW
  Stuart Brannon's  Final Shot by Stephen Bly with Janet, Russell, Michael and Aaron Bly is such a fantastic book. I love it, but I must say it was hard for me to read because it is the last work of Stephen Bly. I’ve been a fan of Stephen and Janet’s for many years. I joined their Yahoo group before there was a group on facebook, etc… So it saddened me to read this book, but also made me happy to have Stephen’s last work. In Stuart Brannon's  Final Shot only 7,000 words were written by Stephen Bly, just before his death, Janet, his dear wife and three sons got together and completed the final book Thanks for doing that Janet and sons. It was put together so well that the scenes and words flow very smoothly.
  The characters were some of the ones from other books of Stephen’s that we loved or hated for years. These characters are strong and very descriptive. The scenes and action were very well written and had me on the edge of my seat.
  I love how Stuart still does the right thing even in the most horrible circumstances. How he believes what the Lord says and goes by the Code of the West.
  I highly recommend this fantastic book. It will end up on your book shelf for sure. A western full of action, adventure, close calls, humor and even romance. A 5-star book and one to be loved.

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Thank you to the Author/Publicist 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

Love's Sacred Song by Mesu Andrews * A Review

ABOUT LOVE'S SACRED SONG
Standing in the massive shadow of his famous father, young king Solomon wavers between fear and bravado, wisdom and folly. In the uncertain world of alliances and treachery, Solomon longs for peace and a love that is true and pure--a love that can be his cornerstone.

A shepherdess in the northern city of Shunem, Arielah remembers the first time she laid eyes on Solomon in Jerusalem when she was just seven years old. Since then she has known that it was her destiny to become his bride. When her father, a leader of their tribe, secures a promise from King Solomon to marry Arielah as a treaty bride to help unite the kingdom, it seems her dreams may come true.

But how can this simple shepherdess live as part of Solomon's harem? Can Solomon set aside his distractions to give himself completely to just one woman? Or will he let duty, deception, and the daily routine divide his heart?

Mesu Andrews expertly weaves the words of the Song of Solomon into this touching story of the power of love. Readers will be transported from the glowing fields of Shunem to the gleaming city of Jerusalem as they experience this rich and textured novel from a master storyteller.

Paperback: 448 pages
Publisher: Revell (March 1, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0800734084
ISBN-13: 978-0800734084

ABOUT MESU ANDREWS
Mesu grew up with a variegated Christian heritage. With grandparents from the Pilgrim Holiness, Nazarene, and Wesleyan Churches, her dad was a Quaker and mom charismatic. As you might imagine, God was a central figure in most family discussions, but theology was a battlefield and Scripture the weapon. As a rebellious teenager, Mesu rejected God and His Word, but discovered Jesus as a life-transforming Savior through the changed life of an old friend.

The desire for God's Word exploded with her new commitment, but devotional time was scarce due to the demands of a young wife and mother. So Mesu scoured the only two theology books available--children's Bible stories and her Bible. The stories she read to her daughters at night pointed her to the Bible passages she studied all day. She became an avid student of God's Word, searching historical and cultural settings as well as ancient texts and original languages.

Just as her daughters have grown and are sharing their own journeys with Jesus, so Mesu's stories have matured through years of study. Harnessing her deep understanding and love for Scripture, Mesu helps others experience God's Word in living color through her biblical novels and devotional studies.

Her debut novel, Love Amid the Ashes, released in March 2011.

MY REVIEW
  This is Mesu Andrews' second novel and the first one I’ve read of hers. This book Love’s Sacred Song was the historical fiction story of Solomon and Arielah’s love story.
  It was quite an interesting story and makes me want to read Solomon and his other books in the Bible again. I like to see if the books of historical fiction I read and the Bible share the same story or close to it.
  Solomon is a very wise King and I’ve always admired him for asking God for wisdom and not wealth, etc…, but I never cared much for his love of women.
Love’s Sacred Song tells of a precious love story between Solomon and Arielah, but she is more special and forgiving than most people. I suppose she just loved Solomon so much that she forgave his every wrong choice.
  If you like love stories and historical fiction and the books of Solomon you will be intrigued with Love’s Sacred Song. I recommend this wonderful story if love and forgiveness. I look forward to more books of Mesu Andrews.

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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

A Time to Heal by Seye Oke A Review

ABOUT A TIME TO HEAL
Two worlds collide in a heated battle between past and future.
Chidi must decide between his love for his wife Tori and his call to duty to save his kindred when a civil war threatens to destroy his home. Will this threefold cord stand the test as the realities of a cross cultural marriage dawns? As life happens, these young lovers begin to wonder if they truly understood the gravity of the vows they exchanged on their wedding day..."With this ring I wed thee...Where you go I will go and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God".

Paperback: 188 pages
Publisher: WestBow Press A Division of Thomas Nelson (May 16, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1449714145
ISBN-13: 978-1449714147
Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 5.5 x 0.4 inches
Shipping Weight: 8.8 ounces

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Seye Oke is an inspirational writer and published author of Love’s Lie and Debbie’s Diary. Her creative works are usually based on biblical principles told in a contemporary African style. Seye lives in Nigeria with her husband and son and enjoys quiet moments with family and friends.
http://www.seyeoke.com/
Follow her on twitter @seyeoke or www.facebook.com/splendourbooks .

MY REVIEW
  This book was an O.K. book. It told of the life and struggles of a husband-Chidi and wife-Tori newly married, he goes off to war and doesn’t say good bye in person to his wife. She is away at college during the week and he leaves suddenly. How she copes with wondering why he has gone, where he is, even if he is safe.
   I didn’t think the characters and setting were described very well.
To me the story isn’t very believable and didn’t keep my interest. Even through it is a short book, only 188 pages it took me quite a while to read.  I hate to give a review that isn’t really good, but I have a duty to my followers and friends to tell you how I feel.
  I also noticed quite a few grammar mistakes and wording that wasn’t right. I don’t mind one or two mistakes but A Time to Heal had more than that. I didn’t care much for the ending. It ended like I thought it should but not with the same depth of feeling that I think it should have had. I know if this did happen it would be hard for a wife, but I think in the book Tori reacted wrong. I won’t be recommending this book.

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Thank you to the author/publicists 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

Sarai by Jill Eileen Smith * A Review

ABOUT SARAI
Sarai, the last child of her aged father, is beautiful, spoiled, and used to getting her own way. Even as a young girl, she is aware of the way men look at her, including her half brother Abram. When Abram finally requests Sarai's hand, she asks one thing--that he promise never to take another wife as long as she lives. Even her father thinks the demand is restrictive and agrees to the union only if Sarai makes a promise in return--to give Abram a son and heir. Certain she can easily do that, Sarai agrees.

But as the years stretch on and Sarai's womb remains empty, she becomes desperate to fulfill her end of the bargain--lest Abram decide that he will not fulfill his. To what lengths will Sarai go in her quest to bear a son? And how long will Abram's patience last?

Jill Eileen Smith thrilled readers with The Wives of King David series. Now she brings to life the strong and celebrated wives of the patriarchs, beginning with the beautiful and inscrutable Sarai.


Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Revell (March 1, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0800734297
ISBN-13: 978-0800734299
Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.5 x 0.9 inches
Shipping Weight: 9.6 ounces

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jill Eileen Smith is the bestselling author of Michal, Abigail, and Bathsheba, all part of the the Wives of King David series. Her research into the lives of David's wives has taken her from the Bible to Israel, and she particularly enjoys learning how women lived in Old Testament times. She lives with her family in southeast Michigan.



MY REVIEW
  Another fantastic book by Jill Eileen Smith. Sarai is the first book in the series Wives of the Patriarchs.
  Jill really has a way with telling a story and she is so good with these historical fiction stories.  You really feel a part of the book and can’t wait to read it from cover to cover.
  There is only one thing I thought could be better and that is the cover of the book Sarai. Sarai was suppose to be one of the most beautiful women ever and I don’t think the cover did her justice.
  I’ve read the story of Abram and Sarai many times and  thought Jill really captured the story and also she really made the characters seem real, as they are, and also they have such depth of feeling.
    I love the way Abram never doubted God’s promises and kept believing even when odds were against them.
  I also really felt more compassion for Hagar than I ever did before. In this book Hagar was a daughter of pharaoh and not just a slave.
  This is a great book. A wonderful way to start a new series. I recommend this book. Another winning book for Jill Eileen Smith.



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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

Downfall by Terri Blackstock 8 A Review

ABOUT DOWNFALL
Emily Covington has turned her life around after a drug addiction, but her family still has trouble trusting her. Though Emily has committed herself to a year-long treatment program and has been sober for almost a year beyond that, even her mother walks on eggshells around her, fearing she'll relapse. After her behavior during her drug years, Emily realizes she has a lot to prove. When police discover a homemade bomb under Emily's car, and she then learns the wife of one of her friends was murdered that same morning, she knows things are deadly serious. But who wants Emily dead? And why? A conversation she had with two men, an Alfred Hitchcock movie, and a plan for a double murder all conspire for one explosive ride ... and Emily is the only one who can identify the killer and save the life of the next potential victim. As she frantically works to solve this ever more complicated puzzle, Emily finds herself playing right into the killer's hands.

Reading level: Ages 18 and up
Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: Zondervan (February 28, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0310250684
ISBN-13: 978-0310250685

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Terri Blackstock (www.terriblackstock.com) has sold six million books worldwide and is a New York Times bestseller. She is the award-winning author of Intervention and Double Minds, as well as such series as Cape Refuge, Newpointe 911, the SunCoast Chronicles, and the Restoration Series.

Author Website:
http://www.terriblackstock.com


MY REVIEW
  I’ve been following the Intervention Series since it came out. Downfall is the third and last book in the series and what an ending to the series. I loved it. This series shows and tells us how drug use really causes so much harm and how things escalate out of control. No one who takes that first drug ever thinks they will be a drug addict. It just leads to more and more bad decisions.
  All of Terri Blackstock’s books are fantastic and Downfall is also.
  The same compelling characters as the first two books with more sinister villains that will capture you right from the start.
  Emily Covington is a young lady who has been a drug addict, but is now clean and has been that way for two years. She is trying to get her life back on track, but things keep happening and people start to doubt that she is recovered. Even the people closest to her have their doubts, but Emily keeps on.
  I love action-packed stories and Downfall was exactly that and much more. The last ten chapters or so was fast-paced and breathtaking.
   I also liked the continuing romance between Emily’s mom Barbara and a police detective Kent. It is really sweet and they have their problems, but I really think it is charming.
   You will greatly enjoy Downfall and hear the concluding story of the Covington’s and how they put their faith and trust in the Lord.
  Highly recommended for everyone. A keeper for sure.

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I receive books free. 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.

Black Box by Larry Jones * A Review

ABOUT BLACK BOX
Flight 027 out of Hong Kong has crashed in the mountains of central Asia. Four men and three women on a routine airplane trip suddenly find themselves stranded in a snow-covered wasteland, fighting for their lives.As the group struggles to endure, intrigue and mystery arise as some of the survivors seem bent on carrying out a hidden agenda--an agenda that centers on finding the plane's black box. Caught up in a web of deceit, flight attendant Dorothy Chandler and the other six survivors must look within to find the deliverance they so desperately desire.

Hardcover: 304 pages
Publisher: Whitaker House (September 27, 2004)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0883688727
ISBN-13: 978-0883688724
Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 5.9 x 1.3 inches
Shipping Weight: 1.4 pounds

ABOUT LARRY JONES
In 1979, Larry Jones and his wife Frances founded Feed the Children, a nonprofit organization providing aid and assistance to children and families in need. Larry served as president of the organization until 2009.
Larry Jones was born in 1940 in Scottsville, Kentucky, and grew up in Bowling Green. He attended Oklahoma City University for his Bachelor of Arts degree and Phillips Seminary in Enid, Oklahoma, for his Bachelor's of Divinity degree. Larry is married to the former Frances Hackler, and they have two children: Allen and Larri Sue.

Over the years Larry Jones has received national and international recognition for his service to others, including the H. J. Heimlich Humanitarian Award for relief efforts throughout the world in 2000, the Humanitarian Award from the National Conference of Christians and Jews in 1995, Oklahoman of the Year in 1994, the National Caring Award in 1993, ABC News "Person of the Week" in 1990, plus Humanitarian Commendations from Armenia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Iran, and Lebanon. Additionally, Larry Jones is the author of numerous books, including How to Bend without Breaking, How to Make It to Friday, The 15-Second Secret, and Life's Interruptions, God's Opportunities.


MY REVIEW
 This book was published in 2004, but it is such a fantastic book and I‘m so glad I read it. If you haven’t read it I really urge you too. I really love the title and cover of Black Box.
  I love books that involve survival and the things people do or don’t do during crisis. How they depend on each other or how they blame each other for everything that happens.
  The two people I liked the most in this story are Dorothy, a flight attendant and an Anglican bishop. How he gave everyone hope and peace, but he waited until they just couldn’t depend on themselves anymore. So often in life that is how it is. We only think we can believe and depend on ourselves. We seem to put God aside and do things our selves.
  I like Black Box because it tells why the airplane a 747 crashed, how it told each of the survivors story and the things they did to help the others or the ones that just wanted to help themselves. How each decsion we make in life not only affects ourselves, but everyone around us.
  Black Box had some tense, suspenseful moments and also so much helpfulness and forgiveness.  I highly recommend this book and I will be keeping my copy. It is a book that I would like to read again.

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Thank you to Whitaker House 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 Rose of Winslow Street by Elizabeth Camden* A Review

ABOUT THE ROSE OF WINSLOW STREET
The last thing Libby Sawyer and her father expected upon their return from their summer home was to find strangers inhabiting a house that had been in their family for decades. Widower Michael Dobrescu brought his family from Romania to the town of Colden, Massachusetts with a singular purpose: to claim the house willed to him long ago. Since neither party has any intention of giving up their claim, a fierce legal battle ensues between the two families.

When important documents go missing from the house, Libby suspects Michael is the culprit. Determined to discover the truth behind the stolen papers, Libby investigates, only to find more layers of mystery surrounding Michael and his family. Despite their rivalry, Libby finds herself developing feelings for this man with the mysterious past.

As a decision about the house looms in the courts, Libby must weigh the risks of choosing to remain loyal to her family or give her heart to a man whose intentions and affections are less than certain.

Paperback: 342 pages
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (January 1, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0764208950
ISBN-13: 978-0764208959
Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.5 x 1.1 inches
Shipping Weight: 11.2 ounces

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Elizabeth Camden is a research librarian at a small college in central Florida. She has a master's in history from the University of Virginia and a master's in library science from Indiana University. She has published several articles for academic publications and is the author of four nonfiction history books. Her ongoing fascination with history and love of literature have led her to write inspirational fiction. Elizabeth lives with her husband near Orlando, Florida.

She regularly posts about the joys of the book world at http://elizabethcamden.com/blog

MY REVIEW
My first book to read by Elizabeth Camden and I must say I love it. The Rose of Winslow Street is full of intrigue and suspense, but also compassion and forgiveness.
  Libby and her father live in a really nice big house, but she isn’t happy because she has tried to conquer something in her life and hasn’t been able to for as long as she can remember. Her father loves her, but can’t seem to forget that she isn’t perfect.
  Michael is from a different country, so why does he want to live in America and in Libby’s house. They (Michael and his family) take over Libby and her dad’s house while they are gone on vacation. So they hear about this and come home.
  You won’t believe all of the very interesting things that happen and my favorite part of the whole book is how Libby when the whole town turns against Michael and his family, Libby takes them food and befriends them as Christ wants all to do. It is hard for her because they invaded her home, took over everything she loves and destroyed one of the most precious things she loved.
  Why would this family come to America, take over something that belonged to someone else and change two families forever? You need to read this book The Rose of Winslow Street to find out.
  I highly recommend this book and think you would love to read it. Very interesting!

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Thank you to Bethany House 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

Promised to Another by Laura V. Hilton * A Review

ABOUT PROMISED TO ANOTHER
Annie Beiler is a spunky, spirited schoolteacher, but she's struggled ever since the man she was promised to "jumped the fence" and left the Amish of Seymour. She needs a man who is committed to his Amish beliefs. And now, she's struggling to regain the trust of the school board members and the parents of her pupils for taking her class on an unauthorized field trip to a nearby Civil War battlefield. She's put on probation, and one wrong step could cost her the position permanently.

Joshua Esh of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, moved to Missouri ostensibly as part of the man swap meant to bring new blood into the community. Annie Beiler caught his attention the moment he arrived in Seymour, but he's disheartened to discover that she is promised to another man–Luke, who left the Amish but vowed to return one day and claim "his" Annie. So, Josh fills his social calendar with singings and frolics, taking a different girl home from every event–with the exception of Annie, since she is already committed to someone.

When Luke comes home, Annie pushes him away, and Josh Esh comes to her rescue. But the situation becomes awkward, since Josh is staying with Luke's family. An awareness of each other's attraction to Annie causes the awkwardness to escalate, and Annie's father soon invites Josh to stay with his family. But not all of the Beilers are happy about this new arrangement.

Soon, a buggy accident ends in a shotgun wedding after the bishop witnesses a kiss between Josh and Annie and insists they get married right away. The two protest, but the bishop is adamant. He later tells them why: he'd overheard some talk about a scheme Luke was launching to force Annie to marry him.

Marriage brings some dark secrets to the surface, and Annie and Josh must confront their issues and deal with the past if they plan on a future together.

Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: Whitaker House (March 1, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1603742573
ISBN-13: 978-1603742573

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Laura V. Hilton is a pastor’s wife, mother of five, author and book lover. Although for her formal education she studied marketplace issues -- she holds a degree in business -- reading is Laura’s lifelong passion, and writing a gift she’s developed to the delight of her growing fan base and to the glory of God. Prior to The Amish of Seymour Series for Whitaker House, Laura published two novels for Treble Heart Books: Shadows of the Past and Hot Chocolate. She’s also a contributor to the Zondervan’s It’s The Year Life Verse Devotional.

     While she did not grow up in an Amish community, Laura has become an expert in Amish customs and traditions, learning from her Pennsylvania Amish grandparents. She’s a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) for whom she reviews primarily Amish fiction for the ezine, Afictionado, Laura is also on staff at the Christian Suspense Zone and a professional reviewer for the Christian book market. She’s written for a wide variety of Internet sites including Dancing Word, Faith Webbin, A Romance Review, and Christian Review of Books. At last count she’d published over 1,000 reviews.

     A stay-at-home mom who home schools her children, Laura, her husband Steve, and their children live in Arkansas.  To read her daily book reviews go to: http://lighthouse-academy.blogspot.com. For other Laura V. Hilton news: http://lauravhilton.blogspot.com.


MY REVIEW
  Promised to Another by Laura V. Hilton is the three and last book in the series The Amish of Seymour. Another excellent book and I especially liked the ending fourth of Promised to Another.
  I like the description of characters and of the countryside. Annie is a favorite of mine. She is very special because of her looks and also the way she loves children and is an excellent teacher, but she doesn’t believe she is worthy to have a special man in her life. She is also full of spunk and adventure.
  The buggy accident and shotgun wedding are especially interesting as are the secrets that come up. I couldn’t wait to finish this book and find out how it would all end. I’m quite happy with this wonderful book and the series. It’s a book that will be a great addition to your Amish collection. I really like Laura V. Hilton’s style of writing. She knows how to tell a story and keep you interested. Look forward to more of Laura’s work. I recommend this book and it will keep you reading until the last page.


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Thank you to Whitaker House 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

When the Smoke Clears by Lynette Eason* A Review

ABOUT WHEN THE SMOKE CLEARS
As a member of the North Cascades Smokejumpers, Alexia Allen always takes care of the equipment that keeps her safe. So when she nearly dies in a fire due to equipment failure, she knows something is up. Ordered to take time off while the investigation continues, Alexia makes a last-minute decision to recuperate at her mother's home and attend her high school reunion. Yet trouble seems to be following her, and within hours of arriving home she's involved with murder, arson--and a handsome detective. But the conflicts ahead are nothing compared to the ghosts of her past. As she strives to remember and forgive her family history, she must also decide if the secret she's been guarding for the last ten years must finally come to light.

Chock-full of the suspense and romantic tension readers have come to expect from Lynette Eason, When the Smoke Clears is the explosive first book in the Deadly Reunions series.

Paperback: 352 pages
Publisher: Revell (February 1, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0800720075
ISBN-13: 978-0800720070
Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.5 x 1 inches
Shipping Weight: 10.4 ounces

ABOUT LYNETTE EASON
Lynette Eason is the author of several romantic suspense novels, including Too Close to Home, Don't Look Back, and A Killer Among Us. She is a member of American Fiction Christian Writers and Romance Writers of America. A homeschooling mother of two, she has a master's degree in education from Converse College. She lives in South Carolina.

MY REVIEW
  I read Lynette Eason’s first series The Women of Justice series and thought they were great, but her new series  Deadly Reunions is even better. This book When the Smoke Clears is a fantastic book. It was just so hard to put down. I wanted to read it all at one time, but wished I wouldn’t get done reading it. Just love the characters and the action in this book.
  Alexia is one brave woman, she grew up with an abusive dad and learned how to hide her feelings. She was accursed of starting a fire that burned her dad and sister, but it was never proved. Alexia blocked it out of her mind, so she really doesn’t know what happened. As soon as she graduated high school she left, because she felt no one loved her or cared. She made a nice life for herself, but lost contact with friends and family. As the 10 year reunion was coming up she decided to go home.
  Things and events kept happening to cause the police to believe that she was behind it all, but one officer believed in her, Hunter. He was from her high school, but older than her.
  So many things happen and you will love how the story goes, but you won’t know what happens until the very last chapter.
Lynette Eason is quite a storyteller. I love her books and will highly recommend this one.

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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

Scream by Mike Dellosso*A Review

While talking to his friend on the phone, Mark Stone is startled by a cacophony of otherworldly screams. Seconds later, a tragic accident claims his friend’s life. When this happens several more times—screams followed by an untimely death—he is compelled to act.

Battling his failure as a husband and struggling with his own damaged faith, Mark embarks on a mission to find the meaning behind the screams and hopefully stop death from calling on its next victim. When his estranged wife is kidnapped and he again hears the screams as she calls from her cell phone, his search becomes much more personal and much more urgent.

Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Realms (February 11, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1599794691
ISBN-13: 978-1599794693
Product Dimensions: 8.1 x 5.4 x 0.9 inches
Shipping Weight: 11.2 ounces

Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Mike now lives in Hanover, Pennsylvania, with his wife, Jen, and their three daughters. In addition to his novels of supernatural suspense he writes a bi-weekly column for his local newspaper and is an adjunct professor of writing at Lancaster Bible College. He received his BA degree in sports exercise and medicine from Messiah College and his MBS degree in theology from Master's Graduate School of Divinity.


MY REVIEW
  I wasn’t required to write a review of Scream by Mike Dellosso, but after reading it I wanted everyone to know what an excellent book this is.
  This is the first book I’ve read by Mike Dellosso and I’ve found another favorite author.
  I just love this book; Scream is full of mystery, suspense and adrenaline rushing scenes.
  It is a book that makes you think and want to do something about all of the lost people you meet. Everyone is going to die, but they don’t have to be lost.
  The character Mark was brought up in a “Christian home,” but they were hypocritical, so Mark wants nothing to do with Christ or Christians. Then one day while talking to his best friend he hears some screams and they seemed to be from Hell itself. Not your normal screams, but hideous ones. Then his friend dies. This happens several times.
 Also this book is about a guy who kidnaps women and wants to make them pay for something that happened in his past. After a while these two stories intersect and you will find out what it takes to free and help others.
  This book is so well written, full of interesting ideas and suspenseful that you won’t put it down. I love this kind of book and so glad I have a new favorite author to read his books. A five star book. I highly recommend this book.
  Right now this book in the eBook format is free. So just go to Amazon and you should be able to get it.


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My Valentine for Jesus by Laurie Lazzaro Knowlton * A Review

ABOUT MY VALENTINE FOR JESUS

This Valentine holiday book for young children will help parents of children ages 2-5 share the meaning of love. The rhyming text and delightful illustrations tell the story of a child's love for his family---and his special love for Jesus.

Reading level: Ages 4 and up
Board book: 10 pages
Publisher: Zonderkidz; Brdbk edition (December 15, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0310713331
ISBN-13: 978-0310713333
Product Dimensions: 6.9 x 6.9 x 0.3 inches
Shipping Weight: 6.4 ounces

ABOUT THE AUTHOR LAURIE LAZZARO KNOWLTON
Laurie's first published work was a note passed to a boy in elementary school. You would have thought that this most embarrassing moment would have stopped her writing career. But instead, Laurie is the author of thirty five books and author/illustrator of two more. Laurie lives in rural Ohio with her husband and two daughters and loves writing surrounded by horses, cattle, dogs, cats, and five turkeys.


ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR
Buket Erdogan was born and raised in Istanbul, Turkey. After studying Turkish textiles, she moved across the ocean to New York to design children's clothing and illustrate children's books. She illustrated the Mouse's First series published by Simon and Schuster, three of which were New York Times bestsellers. She lives in Brooklyn with 'the most inspiring artist,' her daughter, Yagmur. Buket paints with bold colors of acrylic with lots of exciting textures of canvas.

MY REVIEW
  This is such a colorful, interesting, sweet book. The boy is talking about giving love, kisses and hearts to all of his family, but saving one for the most important, which is Jesus.
  I love this board book, for the wonderful rhyming words, colorful, bold pictures and enduring meaning.
We can give our hearts and love to all of our family and friends, but the most important is giving it to Jesus.
  This book only has ten pages, but isn’t a really short read. Each page has at least four or more lines and the rhymes are so sweet.
  This is going to make a wonderful Valentine present for my grandson and also you may want to get one for your child, grandchild or special friend. I highly recommend this sweet 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

Streams of Mercy by Teresa Slack * A Review

ABOUT STREAMS OF MERCY
On the day of her father's funeral, seventeen year old Jamie Steele discovers that her father was once the prime suspect in the disappearance of a local girl.

Paperback: 302 pages
Publisher: Tsaba House (June 2004)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0972548653
ISBN-13: 978-0972548656
Product Dimensions: 9 x 6.2 x 0.9 inches
Shipping Weight: 15.2 ounces

ABOUT TERESA SLACK
Teresa D. Slack is a member of Christian Writers Fellowship Intl., Faith Christian Writers, and American Fiction Christian Writers, and is a highly sought after guest speaker at writersÂ’ conferences. Evidence of Grace is her fifth novel. She lives in Southern Ohio with her husband.
http://www.teresaslack.com/index.html






MY REVIEW
  This is the first book in the Jenna’s Creek series by Teresa Slack and I found it to be very good and very well written.
I was intrigued by the young girl Jamie who was seventeen. She found out on the morning of her dad’s funeral that he was suspected in a murder over twenty years ago. She was never close to her father, because he beat her mom and didn’t really seem to care for them, but she wanted to clear his name and try to bring closure to her feelings.
  I enjoy Teresa’s books because she tells many different stories in each book she writes. Besides finding out about the murder, this story is also about Jamie getting a job and making friends, about the different lives of all of the people who live in Jenna’s Creek.
  It was a very interesting book, full of many twists and turns and kept me interested. A very good book for everyone. Would recommend it.

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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