Review of On Earth As It Is In Heaven: My Transcendant Spiritual Odyssey Volume 1 and 2 by Jill D. Wilcox

 

Volume 1

What Happens When A Soul Slips from God’s Path — And Yet Heaven Refuses to Let Go?

A Journey That Changes Everything

This spiritual odyssey invites readers into a raw, luminous, and deeply personal encounter with the divine. What begins as a desperate search for truth becomes a transcendent journey through fear, darkness, grace, and astonishing beauty.

“At my lowest point, Love Himself appeared — not to fix everything, but to become everything.”

A Story of Brokenness, Revelation, and Grace

On a cold winter morning, a young mother stands at a crossroads with her young daughter’s hand clasped in hers. She stares at the closed door of her Boston brownstone. Her husband is gone. Her world is collapsing.

What follows is a profound encounter with the unseen realm — a testimony of divine intervention, spiritual warfare, and overwhelming love. The author’s journey takes her into the spiritual realm that normally remains hidden from human eyes, providing a compelling testimony of how God restores, strengthens, and transforms us — even in seasons of deep weakness and spiritual wandering.

Across both volumes, the veil between the seen and unseen is lifted, revealing a journey that ignites faith, awakens hope, and reminds us that we are never alone.

To Purchase

My Review

On Earth As It Is In Heaven is an inspirational story of a woman who was given a glimpse of her future. I enjoyed the added scripture used to make a point in each chapter which reinforced the message. The main character has many layers and throughout the story exposes all of them.

I was hooked on the story from the beginning, which lived up to it's title as a Spiritual Odyssey. The story left an impression on me and it stayed with me long after I closed the pages and piqued my interest in Vol. 2. A very emotional but inspiring read.

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

 

Volume 2

What Happens When A Soul Slips From God’s Path — And Yet Heaven Refuses To Let Go?
A Journey That Changes Everything

This spiritual odyssey invites readers into a raw, luminous, and deeply personal encounter with the divine. What begins as a desperate search for truth becomes a transcendent journey through fear, darkness, grace, and astonishing beauty.

“At my lowest point, Love Himself appeared — not to fix everything, but to become everything.”

A Story of Brokenness, Revelation, and Grace

On a cold winter morning, a young mother stands at a crossroads with her young daughter’s hand clasped in hers. She stares at the closed door of her Boston brownstone. Her husband is gone. Her world is collapsing.

What follows is a profound encounter with the unseen realm — a testimony of divine intervention, spiritual warfare, and overwhelming love. The author’s journey takes her into the spiritual realm that normally remains hidden from human eyes, providing a compelling testimony of how God restores, strengthens, and transforms us — even in seasons of deep weakness and spiritual wandering.

Across both volumes, the veil between the seen and unseen is lifted, revealing a journey that ignites faith, awakens hope, and reminds us that we are never alone.

To Order

My Review

I loved Vol 2 even more than the first one. The author's descriptions of Heaven and spending time with Jesus and also paints a bleak but understandable version of what hell is like. I was uplifted and enlightened by the descriptions of her relationship with God and Jesus. The quoting scriptures used enforced the message.

I walk away with a new sense of awareness of how short time really is. The story is vivid, gut wrenching in parts, but in the end inspirational and will stay with you long after you finish the book. I would highly recommend the two-volume set for anyone who would enjoy a Spiritual experience that will remind them of what Jesus suffered for us all and how the Holy Spirit gives us insight as we study God's word.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I voluntarily choose to review it. All opinions are my own.

Release Day for A Vintage Christmas to Remember by 22 Authors (22 Heartwarming Historical Romance Novelettes)

 

★Twenty-two authors. Twenty-two unforgettable love stories. One unforgettable season.★

From snow-dusted frontier towns to snowbound Victorian manors to the shadow of war, this sweeping collection brings together twenty-two historical romances all wrapped in the hope of the season. Outlaws find redemption, strangers become sweethearts, secrets come to light, and second chances arrive right on time for Christmas.

Whether you love a marriage of convenience, a rugged cowboy, a mystery with a little danger, or a quiet miracle by the fire—there's a story here for you! Get A Vintage Christmas to Remember today!

https://www.amazon.com/Vintage-Christmas-Remember-Heartwarming-Historical-ebook/dp/B0HJP49VMG

MY REVIEW

A great collection of historical Christmas romances. An excellent choice of stories and authors. Each story is unique to the author; some are suspenseful, some are humorous, and some you might want to reach for the tissues. I enjoyed all of them, but a couple are definitely my favorites- A Prodigal Christmas by Linda Shelton Matchett and Unlikely Treasures by Lynn Lanning.

I received a complimentary copy from an author. All opinions are my own.

Happy Reading,

Julie

New Release October 1st- Nowhere to Hide (Marshals of Montana) by Kathi Oram Peterson

 Dustin Padriac, a former Navy SEAL, returns home after the death of his father, to help his brother run the family pub only to learn of his father's deathbed confession that puts them on the radar of the Irish mafia. The mob kills his brother and being a witness of the heinous act, Dustin is placed under U.S. Marshal protection.

Last fall, Deputy Marshal Olivia Porter survived a near-fatal shooting and has looked forward to a peaceful Christmas, but when her boss calls assigning her to escort an eye-witness to a brutal homicide through a blizzard, she accepts. The drive turns deadly and forces Dustin and Olivia into hiding. They must rely on each other if they hope to survive.

Purchase on Amazon

My Review

Nowhere to Hide had me engaged from the beginning. The book delivers nonstop action, edge-of-your-seat suspense, and plenty of twists and turns. Deputy Marshall Olivia Porter finds her job protecting former Navy SEAL Dustin Padriac more challenging than she expected. The enemy seems to always be one step ahead.

The main characters are strong-willed and determined to stay safe. A spark also flickers between them. The ending is fascinating and wraps everything up nicely, but not without some surprises. Highly recommended.

I received a complimentary ARC from the author and chose to review it voluntarily.

Julie

New Release- Defending the Innocent Target by Carol J. Post

 

Danger in the shadows.

A K-9 keeping guard.

When Isaac Cooper and his K-9 partner investigate suspicious activity at the house next door, they discover Brandi Feldman, the frightened new owner who has been attacked. The home she inherited hides dark secrets, and there are traps around every corner. As threats against her escalate, it’s clear someone wants her gone—at any cost. Under Isaac’s vigilant protection, Brandi must uncover the truth about her deadly inheritance. But can they outmaneuver a killer determined to make Brandi’s next move her last?

From Love Inspired  Courage. Danger. Faith.

Purchase on Amazon

My Review

Defending the Innocent Target is a fast-paced, high-tension suspense novel that I couldn't put down. I finished it in one sitting. The Feldman family was close, and Brandi Feldman was surprised to inherit a house and money in New Orleans from someone she never knew. That's when everything became complicated, and a secret held for years was finally revealed.

The storyline is amazing as more secrets surface and Brandi suddenly watches her life fall apart. I loved the sweet, slow romance as Brandi begins to trust Isaac. The ending wraps everything up nicely, as I was on the edge of my seat to the end. This one has no dull moments.

I received an ARC copy from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own. I highly recommend this book and thoroughly enjoyed it.

Julie

New Release September 29th- The Resistance Art Club by Heidi Eljarbo

 

The tension in Europe is rising. The world is on the brink of disaster.

Oslo, 1939. Secretary Heddy Vengen spends her evenings in a basement, secretly learning how to break codes. When she assists those who evacuate art collections from the National Art Gallery, she has her first encounter with the war situation.

Only days after Hitler’s army marches down Karl Johan’s Street in Oslo, German soldiers storm into her office and make it their own, cementing Heddy’s determination to do more to oppose the occupants. Driven with a fierce desire for freedom and a deep compassion for her beautiful country and its people, she joins the resistance movement and leaps into dangerous, covert operations whenever she’s needed.

During this time, she meets Sverre, a spirited undercover fighter whose resolve is as firm as hers. Bold and seemingly fearless, he faces every mission with personal optimism and masterful skill, and over a short while, he and Heddy grow close.

Purchase on Amazon

My Review

The Resistance Art Club tells Heddy and Sverre's story and serves as a prequel. I loved reading their story, and it fascinated me from the beginning. I read the story in one sitting. I simply couldn't put it down.

Sverre is an outstanding character full of courage, strength, and determination to carry out the most dangerous missions. Heddy is also courageous and determined. Their story is inspirational and uplifting, especially since it is happening during WWII. As you might guess, the resistance faces dangerous conditions, suspense, and times of desperate measures.

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

Julie

New Release- "Swedish Sunrise" by Linda Shelton Matchett

 

Espionage. Diplomacy. Resistance. Is there any room for love?

Weeks after being accepted into America’s Office of Strategic Services, Birgit Westgard finds herself in Stockholm, Sweden - “Casablanca of the North.” The job is supposed to be easy: typing and filing. Then her handsome boss taps her to be his “plus-one” at social events where they collect intelligence, plant propaganda, and dance the nights away. How much longer can she remain impervious to his charm?

Silas Cronin is one of the lucky ones, and his plane crash lands in neutral Sweden. Bored with cooling his heels in an internment camp, he raises his hand when the government comes looking for someone who can type. Suddenly, he’s in Stockholm, mired in intrigue and subterfuge, and more than a little attracted to his new secretary who wants nothing to do with him. Is she right that wartime is no time for romance?

To Purchase

My Review

Swedish Sunrise grabbed me from the start. I loved how the author introduced historical details, architecture, and relatable characters. Silas and Birgit took part in behind-the-scenes secret missions. They were dangerous, suspenseful, and weighed heavily on them. I was captivated by tense, emotional issues that ran the gamut- one being Christian beliefs v/s service to the cause.

The budding sweet romance, which was especially hard during wartime, had me rooting for the couple as their many layers were revealed. I especially loved the ending, which wrapped up everything nicely. An inspirational story that will stretch your emotions but also warm your heart.

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

The Good Farmer & The Worried Donkey: A Story About Finding Peace in God's Strength by Hannah E. Harrison (Zonderkidz)

 

The Good Farmer and the Worried Donkey is an honest and heartwarming picture book that reminds us that we are not alone and God is our strength. This story beautifully captures the essence of Matthew 11 (“his yoke is easy and his burden is light”) and the parable of the sower.

Farmer will no longer want him. But Charlie is in for a surprise, because his farmer is a Good Farmer who is patient, wise, understanding, and strong. Through both touching and humorous moments, Charlie learns about his special place on the farm and why he can trust the Good Farmer with his worries.

The Bible is full of references to seeds, wheat, and farming, but what do those stories tell us about the attributes of God? Or how can we learn to rely on God? In a time when anxiety rates among children are rising, The Good Farmer and the Worried Donkey uses a relatable character and a riveting story to bring biblical truth to life for kids and show how we can cast our cares on God.

FCharlie is a small donkey who works for the miller, but he’s not the strongest, and he sometimes makes the miller mad. When a farmer takes Charlie to a beautiful farm, Charlie worries that if he disappoints him, the farom Hannah Harrison, the author and illustrator of Christlit Book Award-winning and ECPA bestselling The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep, The Good Farmer and the Worried Donkey is perfect for:

• children age 4 and up

To Purchase

MY REVIEW

The book reflects the story of the parable of the sower from the Bible. 

When given to a farmer, Charlie the donkey worries that he won't be good enough or strong enough.  The farmer's patience and understanding put Charlie at ease.

The story has relatable characters and beautiful illustrations that will give the book its special place on your shelf.

"Spaceship Parenting" Raising Smarter, Kinder, More Capable Children by Ricky Arenson, MD

 

Spaceship Parenting had me laughing through the Prologue.  It was written with humor but also had elements of great teaching. It is entertaining, insightful, and funny.  I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn how to raise more capable children.

I was impressed and inspired by the Foundation of Nine Rules, and I wish this book had been available when I was raising my children. I take to heart the information and plan to share it with my grandchildren.

The Rules and my interpretation of them.

Rule #1- Be a Manager- Be in charge! Let your children know you care and want to keep them safe.

Rule #2- Make a Pact to Survive- You and your spouse must work together to raise your children and to keep your marriage strong.

Rule #3- Positive Energy Must Overweigh Negative- Have a positive attitude to be an example for your children. This was one of the most important things during my life raising children.

Rule #4- Work With, Not Against Them- Be involved in your children's lives. Let them know you care. Talk to them calmly and get to the bottom of issues.  Listen to their side of the situation.

Rule #5- Outcome Is Proportional to Investment- The outcome of how your children relate to you depends on the amount of time you are willing to put into the relationship. 

Rule #6- The Stop Rule- Help your children make decisions based on outcomes and accurate information. Don't make decisions based on emotion and expedience. No hasty decisions.

Rule #7- Raise Minds, Not Mayhem- Teaching is better than preaching. Learn them to become problem solvers. Explain things, answer questions and always make the time.

Rule #8- Use Technology to Advance Your Civilization- Use technology as a tool for progress. Limit your child's screen time.

Rule #9- Teach Children to Become Their Own Managers- Teach them how to manage themselves, their relationships, and their future.  They will become responsible adults.

Another part of the book that touched me is The Three Super Goals.

1. Instill in your youth an active desire for happiness.  When they are happy, they are more productive in a positive way.

2. Seek connection with others.  People are happier when they have relationships with friends, etc.

3. Teach love of family, friends, and humanity.  Then they won't put materialism first.

Growing up, I remember these three being taught. My parents had many friends that they considered more than friends. They were part of our family.  I grew up around them and felt the same.  Happiness was a result of helping others.

As you read this book, I believe you will have a-ha moments, as I did. Some things in the book you may have grown up with, but I'm sure you will find something that will bring you insight into parenting. 

To Purchase

New Release September 24th- Watched -Windy City Westons Book 3 by Jerusha Agen

 

His mind is a steel trap. He didn’t know it could trap him.

Robert Weston became a psychiatrist to heal people’s minds. He can’t lose his. But if the strange occurrences of forgetfulness and confusion continue, he may not be able to hide the truth much longer. When his psychological issues put his life in danger, he must face the reality that the genetic nightmare he fears inheriting has seized him.

Attorney Monty Montgomery doesn’t trust Robert Weston. His expert testimony once ruined her client’s case. She didn’t realize the psychiatrist isn’t only wrong but also completely unreliable. How can she defend him against a malpractice suit for the insurance company that hired her when he’s clearly incompetent?

Robert and Monty have bigger problems than they know. Someone has a mission. A mission that won’t be stopped until somebody ends up dead.

Is everyone a pawn in the lethal game, or is Robert’s failing mind playing tricks on him? Even with the help of the Weston siblings, Robert and Monty may need a mind smarter than theirs—the mind of God—to escape this twisted game alive.

Watched continues the thrilling Windy City Westons series that features five siblings who encounter danger, love, and God in the city of Chicago. (Each book can stand alone or be read as a 

series installments.)

Preorder on Amazon

My Review 

Another great read in the Windy City Westons. This one was fascinating as I read about Robert Weston, a psychiatrist who is experiencing memory issues that push his practice to the limit. His attorney, Monty Montgomery, is drawn into his malpractice suit and becomes more involved than she could have imagined.

The main characters are strong-willed, determined, and have close family ties. Even these traits aren't enough when they find themselves targets. The story revolves around revenge and lies, with faith intricately woven throughout. There are lots of edge-of-your-seat moments and non-stop action. The ending wrapped up everything nicely.

I can't wait to read the next in the series.

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

Julie

New Release- Grow Wild, My Child by Ainsley Arment (Children's Book)

 

Wander through the world's classroom to learn, play, discover, and make the most of childhood. In this lyrical picture book from Wild + Free homeschool-community founder and bestselling author Ainsley Arment, your family will be inspired to make every day a growing experience through wonder, curiosity, adventure, and connection.

In this poetic adventure, you will discover

• the delight of education through experience--exploring nature, reading great books, and pursuing new interests;
• that childhood is sacred, and children should be given the freedom to grow up slowly; and
• that alongside loving guidance, the wider world offers children room to grow, learn, and become who they were meant to be.

Grow Wild, My Child is perfect for . . .

• boys and girls, ages 4 to 8;
• families who enjoy nature and art, value giving their children safe spaces to make their own discoveries, and for those families who have chosen to homeschool; and
• gifts for birthdays, grade-school graduations, Christmas, and Mother's Day.

Inspire your family to get dirt between their toes, reach for the sky, welcome exploration, and follow where adventure leads.

To Order on Amazon

MY REVIEW

This is a wonderful book for children who are inquisitive about nature.  They will see the joy in climbing trees, splashing in a creek, and other adventures waiting.  Knowing you are loved and allowed to explore nature safely keeps a child eager to learn and builds confidence.  It also spurs children's creativity and what makes them stand out.

The rhyming lyrics give the book a sense of rhythm and is easy to understand. The beautiful illustrations are in bright colors to stimulate the eyes and will catch the attention of the young reader. 

This is a good book that will entertain your child and even bring back your own wild child memories.  I was also a wild child and enjoyed many trips in nature, so I can relate. You can share your experiences with your child as you read.

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

Have a blessed day!

Julie

What if the World is a Letter by Hilary Echols ( Christian Children's Picture Book)

Assure children that they are loved, worthy, and cherished with this lyrical picture book that celebrates the ways nature displays the depth of God's love. From each sunrise's declaration of hope to the wind's song of wonder and the mountains' echoes, love is woven into the natural world.

With What If the World Is a Letter?, children will understand

• nature is an expression of God's love for each of us;
• they are treasured, and they belong in this beautiful world;
• we are part of something bigger than ourselves, and each child matters; and
• the Creator's love is stronger than any storm they may face.

This book is perfect for

• gifts for special occasions, such as Valentine's Day, birthdays, christenings, and baby showers and dedications;
• reassuring children experiencing difficult circumstances that they are not alone;
• helping young children begin to grasp the power of love; and
• calming anxious hearts at nap time and bedtime.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0G1JSQ7PP

My Review

The title of this book was intriguing. I found the message of God's love heartwarming. The book is beautifully written with engaging text, and the illustrations are warm and colorful.

This is a lovely picture book that any young child will find irresistible and could become a favorite. The story reminds children that they are known, loved, and treasured.

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

Have a blessed day.

Julie