Review of The Christmas Tree Farm by Melody Carlson

ABOUT THE BOOK

When Madison McDowell returns from several years teaching overseas, she has high hopes of picking up where she left off at her family's Christmas tree farm in Oregon. But between damage from a recent wildfire and the neglect due to her sister Addie's unwillingness to invest, the farm is in sad shape. In fact, Addie is intent on selling the property. And to top it off, her former high school flame, the now-widowed Gavin Thompson, has plans to break Madison's heart again by turning his neighboring property into a dusty, noisy dirt bike track for his daughter.

With the odds stacked against her, Madison decides there's only one thing to double down on her dreams. It will take a ton of hard work--and some help from an unlikely ally--to save the farm she so dearly loves. But it may take a miracle to restore her relationship with her sister. Bestselling and award-winning author Melody Carlson charms and delights with this uplifting Christmas story full of old memories and new beginnings.

Order on Amazon

My Review

After being away for years in Mongolia, Madison returns home to her family's Christmas Tree Farm. Her sister, Addie, has been taking care of things, along with caring for her grandmother before she passed away. Now, with different ideas on managing the farm, can they find a solution they can agree on?

I loved how the family united and Madison tried to hold onto holiday traditions. All the characters were well-developed with lots of layers. They were relatable and made it the story come alive. There are beautiful moments of tenderness, empathy, and a second chance at love.

There are many unexpected situations, joy, and the true meaning of happiness. I loved the ending.

I received a complimentary ARC from Revell and a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

Takeover Review Blitz= Inferno by Lisa Phillips

 

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Inferno by Lisa Phillips hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Inferno 

Series: Benson First Responders #9 

Author: Lisa Phillips 

Publisher: Two Dogs Publishing, LLC 

Release Date: September 4, 2024 

Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

BIG CITY CRIME. SMALL TOWN HEROES

An epic finale. 

Detective Samantha Jesse is determined to hold on to what she has. Whenever she gets too happy, life corrects that mistake and takes the joy from her. Her new partner, Detective Romeo Alvarez, was there the day of the biggest correction, but despite his assertions, that doesn’t mean they’re forever connected. Unless her worst fears come true and he changes his ways because he fell in love at first sight with her sister, Bristol. As if Samantha needs that complication in her quiet life. 

A love rekindled. 

Fire Department Captain Julio Espinoza-Vasquez has never let go of the love of his life. Raised by deaf parents, he sees the world in ways no one else around him ever will. And he’ll put it all on the line to protect his colleagues—the family that the department has given him. When a spate of suspicious fires and one death make it clear something is happening in Benson, Julio lands on an inter-department task force. Working with Samantha is his one shot at getting her back. 

As the hunt for the arsonist turns to targeted attacks, Julio puts it all on the line to save Samantha while she investigates these deadly crimes. Only together can they uncover the culprit. But not before Benson becomes an inferno. 

Each Benson First Responders book is a stand-alone Christian Romantic Suspense.

My Review

This is the first book in the Benson First Responder series that I've read and didn't have any problem getting to know the characters. They were professionals with a strong will, committed to their jobs, and hoping for a second chance at a relationship. Julio and Samantha's jobs take them on a search for an arsonist.

The story is full of twists, non-stop action, and a sweet romance. Samantha finds her faith stretched and her ties to family strengthened. A very intense on the edge of your seat read that wrapped up everything nicely at the end. You won't be able to put it down until you've turned the last page so make plenty of time.

I received a complimentary ARC from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.
 

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Lisa Phillips | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

More Books from this Series:

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About the Author

Lisa Phillips is a USA Today and top ten Publishers Weekly bestselling author of over 80 books that span Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense line, independently published series romantic suspense, and thriller novels. She’s discovered a penchant for high-stakes stories of mayhem and disaster where you can find made-for-each-other love that always ends in happily ever after. Lisa is a British ex-pat who grew up an hour outside of London and attended Calvary Chapel Bible College, where she met her husband. He’s from California, but nobody’s perfect. It wasn’t until her Bible College graduation that she figured out she was a writer (someone told her). Lisa is a worship leader, tea aficionado, and dog lover of two crazy Airedales.

Connect with Lisa by visiting authorlisaphillips.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of Inferno and a merch pack!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight September 30, 2024 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on October 7, 2024. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Review of "Home is Right Where You Are" by Ruth Chou Simons

 

Bestselling author and artist Ruth Chou Simons shares a message of comfort and peace inspired by Psalm 23: when you are with God, home is always right where you are.

Ruth shares from her heart the words she's spoken over her own six children, from their very young days into adulthood. Ruth's lyrical text and whimsical art take children and families on a journey that reminds all of us that no matter where we go, no matter what comes our way in life, the Lord keeps us close to Him.

This book is perfect for parents and families who want to reassure their children with the comforting truth that God is always with them, that He will guide them, and that He will provide for all their needs;teach their children that God is the source of joy, overflowing blessings, and wonderful adventure;be delighted with captivating illustrations and beautiful art; andsoothe anxious minds with the comfort of God's provision and presence.Home Is Right Where You Are makes a perfect gift for baby showers, new mothers, births, or adoptions;graduations, milestones, and other big life events; andChristmas, birthdays, Easter, and other gift-giving occasions.

Home Is Right Where You Are is bestselling author and artist Ruth Chou Simons's first children's book—a beautiful treasure of God's promises combined with her moving art.

To Order

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ruth Chou Simons is a Wall Street Journal bestselling and award-winning author of several books and Bible studies, including GraceLaced, Beholding and Becoming, When Strivings Cease, and Now and Not Yet. She is an artist, entrepreneur, podcaster, and speaker, using each of these platforms to sow the Word of God into people's hearts. Through her online shoppe at GraceLaced.com and her social media community, Simons shares her journey of God's grace intersecting daily life with word and art. Ruth and her husband, Troy, are grateful parents to six boys—their greatest adventure.

Connect with Ruth on social media at @ruthchousimons.
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My REVIEW

This wonderful children's book is inspired by Psalm 23. The author's introductory words is a message of hope and a reminder of the promises of God.

The author's story, Home is Right Where You Are, you will find within the pages a message of encouragement and hope. It's a joy to read for adult's as well as children. The words will touch your heart and fill your soul with comfort and peace.

The illustrations accompany the story beautifully; a vision of the world that God created for each of us and a reminder of his love and truth. They are done in gorgeous watercolor style and flow well throughout the pages.

The story touched my heart filling it with warmth. It is a beautiful book you will want to read many times and is a wonderful addition to your home or church library.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

Review of New Release: What's the Story, Morning Glory by Julie Lessman

 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for What's the Story, Morning Glory? by Julie Lessman, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: What's the Story, Morning Glory?
Author: Julie Lessman
Publisher: Julie Lessman LLC
Release Date: October 1, 2024
Genre: Memoir Devotional (half fiction/half nonfiction)

“DEAR LORD, JULIE ... OUR WHOLE LIFE IS IN THIS BOOK!" 

My heart went out to my sweet husband as he walked into our kitchen one day with a noticeable gulp, ashen-faced after reading my latest novel.“Yes, I know, babe,” I said with a repentant smile and a conciliatory hug, “but nobody really knows that.” 
Ahem. Until now ... 

Trust me, "What’s the Story, Morning Glory? A Memoir Devotional with a 'Novel' Approach to Practical Christianity" is not a book I wanted to write. As a novelist, I have never been partial to nonfiction, either reading it or writing it, but I had little choice when God convinced me otherwise through a number of point-blank arm-twistings I couldn’t deny and not-so-gentle proddings from family and friends. 

Despite all the encouragement, I wasn’t really sure where to begin. “It will be fiction and nonfiction combined,” the Holy Spirit whispered within, and just like that, the idea for this book took flight. First, I would tell my “real” and very personal story behind the life-lesson stories in my novels, then I would follow it up with the excerpt from my books where I teach that same life lesson to my characters, finally culminating in corresponding Scriptures, a bulleted “Takeaway” list, and a related prayer. 

Thus, What’s the Story, Morning Glory: A Memoir Devotional with a “Novel” Approach to Practical Christianity was born. A memoir devotional that when combined with scenes from my novels, becomes a “novotional” where I relate the life lessons God personally taught me through His Word. I am simply a child of God who applied these lessons and Biblical precepts to every situation in my life and consequently, saw nonstop answers to prayer and blessings galore. It is my profound hope and prayer that through my own very simple and personal stories and examples, I can do the same for others. Therefore, the format for each chapter of this book will be as

1. The Real Story (How I learned and applied the spiritual lesson in my own life)
2. The Novel Story (The scene where I teach the spiritual lesson to my characters)
3. The Scripture Story (Scriptures applicable to the spiritual lesson)
4. The Takeaway Story (Bulletized points for spiritual lesson in easy-to-read/apply format)
5. The Prayer Story (Specific prayer related to the spiritual lesson)

I pray this bottom-line, albeit somewhat quirky, 1-2-3 devotional blesses you as much as God's spiritual life lessons have blessed me! 

Hugs,
Julie Lessman  

EXCERPT

“But to you who are listening I say: ‘Love your enemies,

do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.’”

~ Luke 6:27-28 NIV

Chapter Six

From Hurt to Healed: The Footpath to Forgiveness

1.) The Real Story:

“Are you out of your ever-loving mind??!!”

Yep, that’s pretty close to what I said to my spiritual mentor, Joy—give or take a few more

colorful words—when she said I needed to forgive my father and restore the relationship.

Forgive my father? The man who beat me with his belt, his shoe, and a cat-of-nine-tails until

I peed on the floor? Called me an “angle-shooter” and reinforced my womanhood by telling me,

“don’t think you’re anything special—any whore can get them excited.”

The same father I hadn’t seen for two years, since the night my little sister Katie and I ran

away after he’d screamed and forced me to make his bed at 10:30 p.m.? I’d made the mistake of

giving him a dirty look while I did so, and you didn’t do that with Daddy. He raised a fist to hit

me and I reared back to fend him off with a kick to his stomach, calling him a very foul name

before Katie and I finally fled into the night.

Forgive that father?

Yeah, I don’t think so. Unfortunately for me at the time, God did think so, mandating that

very thing as the first mission I was to accomplish as a brand-new, twenty-three-year-old

Christian.

A grunt popped from my lips. Yeah, sure—Mission Impossible!

Only it wasn’t. My spiritual mentor, Joy, implied it was as easy as 1-2-3, and I already told

you how I am a black-and-white, bottom-line, 1-2-3 type of person.  So, I begrudgingly agreed to

try, implementing the following steps:

1.) Forgive my father (or if I couldn’t do that, pray that God would bring me to the point

where I could forgive him and give me the grace to do it).

2.) Pray for my father, that God would bless him and give me favor with him.

3.) Put feet to my faith (yeah, yeah, I know, but you better get used to hearing this phrase

because it’s a crucial part of success in becoming who God wants us to be).

The first two points weren’t too difficult because honestly? I was at a place in my life that if

God said, “Jump,” I would ask, “How high?” I was so tired of being miserable, I just wanted to

be set free from all the hate and bitterness inside.

But, yikes, that #3? It was a real killer because the last thing I wanted to do was to face my

estranged father after avoiding him for two years.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon

Also Available

     

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About the Author

Julie Lessman is an award-winning author whose tagline of “Passion With a Purpose” underscores her intense passion for both God and romance. A lover of all things Irish, she enjoys writing close-knit Irish family sagas that evolve into 3-D love stories: the hero, the heroine, and the God that brings them together.

Author of The Daughters of Boston, Winds of Change, Heart of San Francisco, Isle of Hope, Silver Lining Ranch, and The Cousins O’Connor series, Julie was American Christian Fiction Writers 2009 Debut Author of the Year and has garnered over 21 Romance Writers of America and other awards. Voted #1 Romance Author in Family Fiction magazine’s 2012 and 2011 Readers Choice Awards, Julie’s novels also made Family Fiction magazine’s Best of 2014, Best of 2015, and “Essential Christian Romance Authors” 2017-20, as well as Booklist’s 2010 Top 10 Inspirational Fiction and Borders Best Fiction. Her independent novel A Light in the Window was an International Digital Awards winner, a 2013 Readers' Crown Award winner, and a 2013 Book Buyers Best Award winner. 

Julie has also written a self-help workbook for writers entitled Romance-ology 101: Writing Romantic Tension for the Sweet and Inspirational Markets.

Connect with Julie by visiting julielessman.com to follow her on social media, read both romantic and spiritual excerpts from her books, or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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My Review

At first, I had a hard time getting used to the layout of partial devotional book and part memoir. It was a little different than expected, but after reading a chapter or two, I became used to the style and enjoyed it.

The scripture verses are comforting as they address different topics and gave me examples of God's word under a specific topic. It answered the questions about what God said about it. Each section of the chapter is broken down into different sections, (1) The Real Story (2) The Novel Story (3) The Scripture Story (4) The Takeaway Story (5) The Prayer Story.

The book comes with many insightful messages, prayers, and applicable scriptures. It would be a wonderful reference book to refer to again and would be a great addition to your library.

I received a complimentary copy from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card, a character named after you in Julie's next book & a signed paperback copy of that book, plus a signed paperback copy of What's the Story, Morning Glory!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 24, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 1, 2024. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only for print copies. Gift card open to all locales. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Review of K-9 Ranch Protection: Crisis Rescue Team #6 by Darlene L. Turner

 

A killer on the loose. A K-9 keeping watch. Police constable Izzy Tremblay knows her father’s death was no accident, so when she finally discovers a lead and is immediately attacked, her suspicions are confirmed. The ambush leaves her in the hospital with three hours of crucial memory missing, which she knows hold the key to finding her father’s murderer. For protection, she takes refuge with her ex-partner, Austin Murray, on his K-9 ranch while she races to uncover the truth. But with danger still lurking, can they stay alive long enough to take down a killer?

To Order

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Darlene L. Turner is an award-winning, best-selling author and lives with her husband, Jeff in Ontario, Canada. Her love of suspense began when she read her first Nancy Drew book. She’s turned that passion into her writing and believes readers will be captured by her plots, inspired by her strong characters, and moved by her inspirational message. 

You can connect with Darlene at www.darlenelturner.com where there’s suspense beyond borders. 

Be sure to follow her on BookBub https://bit.ly/33TYIS2

MY REVIEW

K-9 Ranch Protection starts with an exciting suspense that had me rapidly turning pages. But what truly surprised me was the author's ability to create such an emotional, action-packed, yet inspirational read. This surprise factor kept me hooked all throughout the story.

The characters are well-developed, and before the end of the book, I felt like I knew them personally. I admired Izzy's courage and persistence in solving cases. The K-9, Ne'v'e, an Alaskan Malamute, is amazing at what she can do. The countryside and ranch setting came alive as I read. I was mesmerized by the non-stop action, suspense, mystery, and "whodunnit." It kept me guessing to the end. You don't want to miss this one!

I received an ARC from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

Review of Home is Right Where You Are: Inspired by Psalm 23 by Ruth Chou Simons

 

Bestselling author and artist Ruth Chou Simons shares a message of comfort and peace inspired by Psalm 23: when you are with God, home is always right where you are.

Ruth shares from her heart the words she's spoken over her own six children, from their very young days into adulthood. Ruth's lyrical text and whimsical art take children and families on a journey that reminds all of us that no matter where we go, no matter what comes our way in life, the Lord keeps us close to Him.

This book is perfect for parents and families who want to reassure their children with the comforting truth that God is always with them, that He will guide them, and that He will provide for all their needs;teach their children that God is the source of joy, overflowing blessings, and wonderful adventure;be delighted with captivating illustrations and beautiful art; and soothe anxious minds with the comfort of God's provision and presence.Home Is Right Where You Are makes a perfect gift for baby showers, new mothers, births, or adoptions;graduations, milestones, and other big life events; andChristmas, birthdays, Easter, and other gift-giving occasions.

Home Is Right Where You Are is bestselling author and artist Ruth Chou Simons's first children's book—a beautiful treasure of God's promises combined with her moving art.

To Purchase

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ruth Chou Simons is a Wall Street Journal bestselling and award-winning author of several books and Bible studies, including GraceLaced, Beholding and Becoming, When Strivings Cease, and Now and Not Yet. She is an artist, entrepreneur, podcaster, and speaker, using each of these platforms to sow the Word of God into people's hearts. Through her online shoppe at GraceLaced.com and her social media community, Simons shares her journey of God's grace intersecting daily life with word and art. Ruth and her husband, Troy, are grateful parents to six boys—their greatest adventure.

Connect with Ruth on social media at @ruthchousimons.

My Review

This wonderful children's book is inspired by Psalm 23. The author's introductory words is a message of hope and a reminder of the promises of God.

The author's story, Home is Right Where You Are, you will find within the pages a message of encouragement and hope. It's a joy to read for adult's as well as children. The words will touch your heart and fill your soul with comfort and peace.

The illustrations accompany the story beautifully; a vision of the world that God created for each of us and a reminder of his love and truth. They are done in gorgeous watercolor style and flow well throughout the pages.

The story touched my heart filling it with warmth. It is a beautiful book you will want to read many times and is a wonderful addition to your home or church library.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

Review of The Books of Moses: Guiding Word Volume 1 by Concordia Publishing House

 

The Books of Moses, the first book of a six-volume Bible Resource series that aims to help readers better understand the Bible, leads readers through the first five books of the Bible—Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.

Designed in the style of a travel guide, each book in the Guiding Word Study Series presents information in short, easy-to-read style and visual elements, such as maps, diagrams, and textual callouts. Each book is structured into three individual parts: Orientation, Observation Points, and Landmarks, and includes six key features—Visualize, Picture of the Savior, Link Between the Testaments, Clear the Confusion, Set the Scene, and Waypoint—that guide the reader through the volume, offering readers information but also asking readers questions to develop their own understanding.

The Books of Moses tell of the beginning of the world and lay down the narrative of the family God chose to make a great nation from which He would send His Son. People and events in these books include Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel, the flood, the tower of Babel, Abraham and Isaac, Jacob and Esau, Joseph, Moses, the golden calf, and the manna in the wilderness. Most importantly, these books also give the first promises of the Christ. The promise of the Messiah is the clear thread that weaves its way through the Books of Moses.

Note: The Guiding Word Study Series uses the English Standard Version (ESV) translation of the Bible..

* Volume 2 (The Books of History) is coming out later this year in November. The series will have six total volumes.

Purchase Link

My Review

This is the guide to the Books of Moses, an in-depth study of the first five books of the Old Testament. When read along with your Bible, you gain a better understanding and knowledge. I found it a good resource, when used as directed.

There will be six volumes total in the collection. Each volume follows the pattern of a travel guide and will enhance your ability to understand difficult passages in the Bible. It's a great addition for home library or as a guide for church Bible study groups. Highly recommended.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

New Release: When Memory Whispers by Johnnie Alexander

What will she risk to save the man she loves?

Marie Wyatt ran away from her farm girl past in search of fame and fortune and found herself in wartime London working as an Allied courier. Whether disguised as a middle-aged British housewife or playing a role on the London stage, she acts her part to its fullest. But when a routine mission turns deadly, a mysterious German agent becomes her unlikely savior.

Plunged into a dangerous game of deception, Marie relies on her acting talent to pass false information to the Nazis. Yet the line between duty and loyalty blurs when the German agent is imprisoned in a Florida POW camp with Axis soldiers who consider him a traitor. Marie embarks on a desperate mission to save him before he’s fatally injured.

In a postwar world still reeling from conflict, the couple’s lives are again threatened by a past enemy. Will they ever find the peace they crave? Or will the echoes of war destroy them?

Plummet into a heart-wrenching tale of courage, treachery, and a love that defies all odds.

To Order on Amazon

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Johnnie Alexander is a wannabe vagabond with a heart for making memories. As a bestselling, award-winning novelist, she has written more than thirty works of fiction in a variety of genres.

She is a Mosaic Collection author, co-hosts a weekly online show called Writers Chat, serves on the Mid-South Christian Writers Conference Executive Board, and is a regular contributor to the HHHistory.com blog.

A fan of classic movies, stacks of books, and road trips, Johnnie shares a life of quiet adventure with Rugby, her raccoon-treeing papillon. 

Connect with her at JohnnieAlexander.com.

MY REVIEW

The story goes from 1997 back to 1944 but does it seamlessly. Marie Wyatt is Sparrow, a spy during WW2. She has placed herself in danger, been betrayed and then falls in love during the worst part of the war.

The characters are well-developed with lots of layers. I was drawn into the story right away. My heart ached for Marie and Rolf's predicament due to their ongoing love, in spite of their circumstances.

The historical details are weaved wonderfully, bringing the story to life. It's a wonderful story that will touch your heart.

I received an ARC copy from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own

Review of "The Garden Within: Where the War with Your Emotion Ends and Your Most Powerful Life Begins" by Dr. Anita Phillips

 

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER | WALL STREET JOURNAL BESTSELLER 

Too often we’ve been taught to view our emotions with suspicion, seeing them as something to be suppressed, managed, or mastered. This isn’t true. Emotions are not your enemy. Internal war is not your destiny. You were created to flourish.

 In this game-changing book, trauma therapist and mental health expert Dr. Anita Phillips reveals how embracing emotion is the key to living your most powerful life. Just as gardens thrive in good ground, the abundant life you’ve been seeking can only be grown in the soil of your heart. 

Blending faith, the latest discoveries in neurobiology, and her own research and work as a licensed therapist, Dr. Anita shows you how to cultivate a state of emotional well-being that This book will equip you with the tools you need to nurture a part of yourself that has been misunderstood for too long — your heart — setting you free to live just as the Creator intended.  

AUTHENTIC. FRUITFUL. POWERFUL

Save 30% or more at FaithGateway, plus download a FREE reading plan with your purchase. 

https://nelsonbooks.co/save-on-the-garden-within 

Details:

Featured on SUPER SOUL PODCAST hosted by Oprah Winfrey

Additional features include Oprah Daily, Red Table Talk, Essence, Tamron Hall, Woman Evolve, Proverbs 31, the Today Show, and more...

Instant New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and Publishers Weekly bestseller

From acclaimed trauma therapist, life coach, and minister Dr. Anita Phillips

Why the book is important:

Just as gardens thrive in good ground, the abundant life you’ve been seeking can only be grown in the soil of your heart.

Words are like seeds (like the parable of the sower) and the soil of our hearts need to be reset to receive words from God so they take hold.

Blending faith and the latest discoveries in neurobiology

Guide to:

Strengthen your body and the reverse the effects of trauma

Calm anxiety and renew your mind

Unleash a new level of spiritual power in your life

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. Anita Phillips, LCSW-C is a trauma therapist, life coach, and minister. Widely recognized as a thought leader at the intersection of mental health, faith, and culture, Dr. Anita holds degrees from the University of Maryland and Regent University and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. She is a dynamic speaker and podcast host who adores her family and friends, a good pint of ice cream, and sitting by the ocean.

Video on The Garden Within

MY REVIEW

The Garden Within is a thought-provoking read. It explains how our body has a living Garden of Eden inside of us. The concept was new to me, but the more I immersed myself in the book, the clearer it became. It is also a Faith and Mental Health book. It is the first one I've read that understandably describes mental health.

The author shares her wisdom and insights into well-being. Her work as a trauma therapist has given her extensive information, which she conveys in an easy-to-read style.

You will reference this book for living the best possible life as a Christian, and it will be a great addition to your home library. I can also see churches utilizing this reference book in their youth groups.

I received an early copy from the publisher; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

 

 

Review of Tales from the Matthewsburg Manse by Katherine Tompkins

 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Tales from the Matthewsburg Manse by Kate Tompkins, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Tales from the Matthewsburg Manse
Author: Kate Tompkins
Publisher: ‎ The Matthewsburg Manse
Release Date: October 26, 2023
Genre: Short stories/Poetry, Christian fiction, general fiction, rural fiction, wholesome fiction

When city girl Viv's husband Mark accepts his first pastoral charge in rural Matthewsburg, she wonders what to expect, and what will be expected of her. This collection of connected fiction stories, some humorous, some suspenseful, some even romantic, explores Viv's new life as she tries to find her place in the community while dealing with local gossip, old rivalries, suspected murder, sabotaged car shows, and more. Who says life in a small town is boring? 

"This book entertains us with our own humanity, we laugh at human foibles, nod our heads in the mutual pains of life's adventures. Interspersed are poems expressing poignant moments. These provide a place to rest, ponder and even smile before we are once again taken on the life journey of being a spouse in a small town parish. I found myself laughing out loud on occasion. This book is a wonderful read and leaves us with the feeling that life is good." - Nita Kotiuga, retired pastor, Director of Spiritual Formation at Bakke Graduate University.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

My Review

Each chapter is a very amusing story in the life of a minister and his wife. The small-town setting became real through great descriptions. The characters were well developed with lots of layers and all the flaws.

The insertion of poetry between the chapters is not just a clever device, but it's also a delightful addition that enhances the overall book. It's like a little treat between the stories, adding to the enjoyment. This book is full of surprises, some fun and humorous times, mystery, and unexpected actions that will keep you entertained.

Overall, I really enjoyed the way the story evolved. The closing was unusual but fit right in with the ongoing humor.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

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About the Author

Kate Tompkins lives in Montreal’s West Island, where she shares a small house and a big backyard with her husband and the latest in a series of very spoiled cats. She writes short stories, poetry (yes, the non-literary, rhyming kind), and the occasional essay. When not hanging out with her church’s writing group or getting lost down an internet rabbit hole, she can be found trying out recipes from old cookbooks for her cooking blog, Kate’s Virtual Kitchen, or outside keeping the flowerbeds in order.

Connect with Kate by visiting katetompkinsbooks.ca to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $20 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 11, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 18, 2024. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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Review of New Release: "Savannah's Amish Ties That Bind" by Tracy Fredrychowski

 

A secret Amish legacy challenges a young English woman’s faith in the shadow of a vanished husband and shattered dreams. Can she unravel the secrets of the past to forge a new life within an Old Order Amish community?

Savannah Carmicheal is uprooted from her posh Charleston, South Carolina when the sudden disappearance of her husband leads her on a journey to Northwestern Pennsylvania. As Savannah struggles with her eccentric grandmother, she discovers hidden Amish ties that connect her with a family she didn’t know existed.

Neal Zook thought he could make a life for himself elsewhere, far away from the rules and traditions of his Amish upbringing. Yet, when external forces challenge his faith, he faces a pivotal decision – to forsake all he holds dear and return to his Amish community or go against his conscience and live a lie regardless of the ties that bind him to his past.

Can this couple find common ground to bind their commitment to God, or will the clash of their worlds shatter the fragile gap between their different backgrounds?

Savannah’s Amish Ties That Bind is the inspirational sixth book in The Amish Women of Lawrence County series of women's fiction novels. If you like spiritual explorations, real-life challenges of emotional bravery, and basking in God's light, then you'll adore Tracy Fredrychowski's exploration of hope.

To Purchase on Amazon

MY REVIEW

Savannah & Neal are married but Neal has secrets he isn't sharing. The story goes more in-depth with the characters and immerses you in the grief and guilt he faces. Wanting to make things right Neal decides to confront his past but is in for more heartache. Many changes take place when Savannah ends up in the same town.

The story is heartbreaking at times but also shows the strength and flaws of each character and their involvement in trying to fit into the Amish community. This is one of the most interesting and informative Amish books I've read. The characters are real, their struggles impactful, and the descriptions of the town and community made me feel like I was there. It's a great read that will stay with you long after you turn the last page.

I received an ARC from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

      ABOUT THE AUTHOR

I’m a country girl at heart, an author, a homesteader, and a lover of all things simple living. My passion lies in capturing the essence of the simpler side of life, much like the one I enjoyed growing up in rural Pennsylvania.

My life has always been intricately linked with Amish culture, and it’s only fitting that I have a deep, genuine love for their simplicity, sense of community, and God-centered way of living.

Growing up in Northwest Pennsylvania, I spent my childhood immersed in the heart of Amish Country. The rhythmic clip-clop of horse and buggies was my morning soundtrack as Amish men journeyed past my home to work. A pivotal moment in my young life was shaped by a tragic Amish murder, a story detailed in “Crimson Stain” by Jim Fisher. Jake, a key figure in that true story, was my uncle.

Now residing in South Carolina, my family and I frequently travel through the Amish regions of Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, and Wisconsin. These journeys are not just visits but research expeditions. I take pride in writing Amish fiction that authentically represents their culture, thanks to the invaluable insights from friends within these communities.

If the Amish lifestyle fascinates you, join me on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and check back here often for new short stories and updates on upcoming book releases. Together, let’s explore the serene and captivating world of the Amish. 

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