First Ask Why by Shelly Wildman (Book Review!)

First Ask Why: Raising Kids to Love God Through Intentional Discipleship

by Shelly Wildman

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Religion / Christian Life / Family

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2018

Number of pages- 176

Age Group- Adult (Parents)

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4486-9

Parenting can be really tough.  We are bombarded with with information and advice, and we feel that we aren’t doing it right at all.  Most books focus on how to get the behavior we expect.  Shelly Wildman and her husband decided to focus on how to focus on your family and children individually.  No family is the same, so we need to focus on building a firm foundation for our children and families.

About the Author-

Shelly Wildman currently lives in Illinois and is a mom of three adult daughters.  She is a writer and speaker.

My thoughts-

This book is one of the most interesting parenting books I’ve read.  It really shows how to strengthen and grow my family.  I know as a Christian that it is important to help our children to grow in their life with God.  This book shows how Shelly Wildman and her husband did this in her family.

I like how this book is divided into four sections: “Our Charge,” “Our Challenge,” “Our Compassion,” and “Our Contribution.”  I could focus on the areas that I thought are the most important to our family at this point in time. 

I did spend a lot of time reading, underlining, and studying the information in this book, so I can best serve my children.  I really appreciated the questions at the end of each chapter, because they gave me a way to think more deeply about the chapter.

I would like to have a bibliography at the back of the book.  There were so many interesting books listed, that I an easy to view list of them.

I highly recommend this book to parents and soon-to-be parents. 

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received First Ask Why, by Shelly Wildman, for free from Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Wonder Years edited by Leslie Leyland Fields (Book Review!)

The Wonder Years: 40 Women Over 40 on Aging, Faith, Beauty, and Strength

edited Leslie Leyland Fields

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Religion / Christian Life / Inspirational

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2018

Number of pages- 232

Age Group- Adult (Women)

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $15.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4522-4

Are you nearing 40 or are you past that and are dreading each birthday?  This book is filled with personal stories from 40 different women from the ages of 40-85.  These women have written from a Godly perspective for showing what life can be like after the age of 40.

About the Editor-

Leslie Leyland Fields currently lives in Alaska.  She is a speaker, author, and editor.  She is the founder of Harvest Island Wilderness Workshop.

My thoughts-

I’m over the age of 40, so the title of this book captured my attention.  I liked how it included the stories of 40 women between the ages of 40 and 85.  It shows what can be done for all the age groups.  There were stories from women I’d never hear of like:

• Jen Pollock Michel
• Win Couchman
• Jean Murray Walker

There were also stories from women who I had heard of like:

• Ann Voskamp
• Joni Eareckson Tada
• Madeline L’Engle

I like how the book was divided into three different sections about first, lasts, and always.  The way that the sections were divided showed me areas of my life that will soon be firsts and those that will be last.  It helped give me confidence that I will be able to manage them.  It is always better to have first-hand experience to read and learn from, and I appreciate this book for that.

I know that many women will find comfort with these stories on how to approach these coming years with dignity, so I recommend this book.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received The Wonder Years, edited by Leslie Leyland Fields, for free from Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Winning Miss Winthrop by Carolyn Miller (Book Review!)

Winning Miss Winthrop

A Promise of Hope (Book 1)

by April Cassidy

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Fiction / Christian / Romance

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2018

Number of pages- 368

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $15.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4533-0

Jonathan Carlew and Catherine Winthrop never thought they would see each other again, but they are forced together by the death of her father.  Jonathan suddenly is the Lord of the Winthrop estate where Catherine grew up.  Catherine is forced to lived in the dower house, because her father wasn’t good with his money.

Will they be able to forget what happened in the past?  Will they learn to work together for the benefit of her mother and the estate?

About the Author-

Carolyn Miller currently lives in Australia with her husband and children and has long enjoyed Regency Romance.  She is a member of the Australian Christian Writers and the American Christian Fiction Writers.  Her website is www.carolynmillerauthor.com

My thoughts-

I enjoyed the books in the Legacy of Grace series, so I was excited to learn about Winning Miss Winthrop.  This novel didn’t disappoint. I was taken on a journey of during the Regency period in England.  I especially liked learning about the lifestyle in Bath.  It would be interesting to go there and see the buildings and imagine the lifestyle that used to be there.

The storyline between Jonathan and Catherine and their mothers was fun.  It’s always interesting how people can go through their daily lives and never discuss what’s bothering them.  They just pretend the problem doesn’t exist or perhaps the other person doesn’t exist.  It’s a good lesson for us that we always go to the person we have a problem with.  We’ll never be able to solve the problems if we keep it inside of ourselves.  I like being remembered of it when I read books like this.

I enjoyed Winning Miss Winthrop and am looking forward to the next book in the series.

I recommend you read this too.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Winning Miss Winthrop, by Carolyn Miller, for free from Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Peaceful Mom by April Cassidy (Book Review)

The Peaceful Mom: Building a Healthy Foundation With Christ as Lord

by April Cassidy

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Religion / Christian Life / Family

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2018

Number of pages- 280

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $16.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4463-0

Do you know what it takes to be a peaceful mom? Or do you live in a very stressful house.  April Cassidy has written this book filled with Bible verses, personal stories, and lots of practical advice to help bring peace.

The Peaceful Mom was written in two parts, the first about your relationship with God, and the second one about how to parent on a daily basis.  There are also four appendices, which include more information about having a relationship with God.

About the Author-

April Cassidy currently lives in South Carolina with her family.  She blogs and is a part-time pharmacist.  She has written The Peaceful Wife and The Peaceful Single Girl.  Her website is www.peacefulwife.com.

My thoughts-

All of the pages in this book are full of information.  I could and should look at this book a few times a year to make sure I am taking advantage of the advice given by Cassidy.

I really liked how this book was divided into two sections, with one section about the relationship between God and myself and the other about parenting on a daily basis.  My favorite chapters were about avoiding mistakes and modeling respect. 

I liked:

• Cassidy’s personal stories and that of others.
• the Bible verses with lots of text to make it relevant to me.
• the prayers at the end of each chapter.

I would have liked to have:

• questions at the end of each chapters, so I could have a way to move forward.
• information at the end of that would recap the most important parts of the chapter.

I recommend this book to others.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received The Peaceful Mom, by April Cassidy, for free from Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

They Were Single Too by David M. Hoffeditz (Book Review!)

They Were Single Too: Eight Biblical Role Models

by David M. Hoffeditz

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Religion / Christian Life / Relationships

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2018

Number of pages- 160

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $13.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4528-6

It can be difficult to be single at church.  This book includes eight individuals from the Bible who lived a life of singleness: Paul, Anna, Martha, Jeremiah, Ruth, Joseph, Nehemiah, and John the Baptist.

About the Author-

David M. Hoffeditz is the president of Iron-2-Iron Ministries and teaches part-time at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School.  He is also the cofounder and director of Ancient Tours.

My thoughts-

They Were Single Too was a very complete book that discussed eight people of different ages who lived a life of singleness for God.  I thought it was well written, but hard to get into.  For me I think it was because it was written more as a lecture. 

I learned a lot about Ruth,  Martha, Paul and the others.  I know to them that being single was what made them who they needed to be for God.  There are ways to serve God when you’re single and when you’re married.  Each person needs to decide what is best for them for serving and being married.  The church needs to be aware that all people are needed in the church and work towards that. 

I liked how each chapter had personal stories from Hoffeditz and others, conclusions, and a section of questions for reflection. 

I think that this book would benefit both singles and married couples.  It would benefit married couples, because they need to see how much the singles are needed in the church and how they can be included.

I recommend it. 

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Avoiding the Greener Grass Syndrome, by Nancy C. Anderson, for free from Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Mending Broken Branches by Elizabeth Oates (Book Review!)

Mending Broken Branches: When God Reclaims Your Dysfunctional Family Tree

by Elizabeth Oates

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Fiction / Christian Life / Women’s Issues

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2018

Number of pages- 226

Age Group- Adult (Women)

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $17.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4426-5

Elizabeth Oates has written a book, that guides those who are struggling with dysfunction, with lots of information and space for taking notes and journaling.  She adds her stories and others to help women accept the past, understand the present, and create a positive future.

About the Author-

Elizabeth Oates currently lives in Waco, Texas with her husband and children.  She is the vice president and cofounder of Project Restoration Ministry.  She mentors women and spends time blogging. 

My thoughts-

This book is well written and powerful.  It has a good mix of information, stories from other women, and plenty of room to take notes and journal.  There were many thought provoking questions that could be used to help the reader learn about themselves and grow to be the person they desire to be. 

This book has been divided into three sections to discuss the past, present, and future.  I made sure to read “How to Use This Book,” before I began reading the book.  (I have learned that it’s important to read all text in a book.)  It talked about how to decide if the book was right for me and how to use the book. 

I hope the price of the book at almost $18 doesn’t turn women away.  I think that it is worth the price, because it is a combination of a book and workbook.  It contains a lot of information that can begin to help women who have broken branches to mend.  I recomend this book to women everywhere.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Mending Broken Branches, by Elizabeth Oates, for free from Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Avoiding the Greener Grass Syndrome

Avoiding the Greener Grass Syndrome: How to Grow Affair-Proof Hedges Around Your Marriage

by Nancy C. Anderson

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Fiction / Christian Life / Love & Marriage

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2017

Number of pages- 152

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $12.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4496-8

This book was written after Nancy Anderson strayed from her marriage, then returned after reconciling with her husband.  She wrote this book to offer hope and pratical advice to help protect and grow your marriage.  In this book she will focus on putting six hedges (hearing, dating, and more) around your marriage to help keep it safe.

About the Author-

Nancy C. Anderson currently lives in California with her husband.  She has contributed to more than 30 books.  She has also been featured in media such as, World, Our Daily Bread, and FamilyLife Today. 

My thoughts-

Avoiding the Greener Grass Syndrome is one of the best nonfiction books that I have read in a long time.  This book had so much information, but was easy to read, understand, and implement.  Each chapter had a several different sections:

• “Things to Think About
• “Things to Do
• sometimes there is also recommended reading.

I liked those sections at the end of each chapter, because it helped tie each chapter together.  It was also a nice way to learn different ways to strengthen my own marriage.

The stories of others and of Anderson really helped me realize what can happen in a marriage and how to improve it.  This book would be really helpful for those who need help in strengthening their marriage, learning how to put up hedges, or some ways to help a troubled marriage.  It would also help those who are looking to get married.  It would help them have a good beginning to their marriage.  I recommend this book to all adults, single and married.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Avoiding the Greener Grass Syndrome, by Nancy C. Anderson, for free from Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

A Song of Home by Susie Finkbeiner (Book Review!)

A Song of Home: A Novel of the Swing Era

by Susie Finkbeiner

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Fiction / Christian / Historical

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2017

Number of pages- 312

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4482-1

It’s late 1935 and early 1936, Pearl Spence and her family have settle into life in Bliss, Michigan without her mother.  She has the support of the rest of the family to keep her going.  She has continued her interest in reading and has a new interest, music.  She especially likes swing dance music and learns to enjoy swing dancing.  Her mother returns to the family and nobody is happy.  She treat’s Pearl’s dad terribly.  Pearl wants her to leave.  Will she leave?  Whose baby is she carrying?  Will Pearl be able to continue to enjoy swing dancing?

About the Author-

Susie Finkbeiner is currently from Michigan.  She is a blogger, stay-at-home mom, author, and speaker.  Her other books include My Mother’s Chronicle, A Cup of Dust, and A Song of Home.  Her website is www.susiefinkbeiner.com.

My thoughts-

I liked how this cover had a rainbow like A Cup of Dust and A Trail of Crumbs.  It helps ties them together.  It shows the reader that the books belong together and are part of a series.

After all the tragedies in the first two books, I hoped Pearl and her family would finally have some peace and stability.  Pearl was enjoying more time with Aunt Carrie, Ray, and Opal.  In that way she was able to have the stability that she needed after her sister died, they moved, and her mama left.  It was all turned around when her mama came back.  Pearl was very upset when she came back.  I don’t blame Pearl, because her mama wasn’t very kind to her family or others in town.  It even got worse before it got better.  The surprise is at the end, but I’m not going to spoil it for you. 

The main thing I noticed in this book was the lack of God and the church compared to the other two books.  While the mention of God wasn’t there, He was still noticeable in the way that everyone was treated.  Aunt Carrie and Pearl’s father were two people that I noticed treated all people in God’s way.

I appreciated the discussion questions at the end of the book.  Discussion questions always help tie the book together and help the reader remember the book for a longer period of time.  The “Afterword” about the Swing Era was also helpful to give me more information about the time period.

I recommend A Song of Home to all adult readers.  It would be a good idea to read the other two books first, so you’ll learn more about Pearl and her family.  If you’re unable to, you’ll still enjoy this one. 

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received A Song of Home, by Susie Finkbeiner, for free from Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Your Marriage God’s Mission by Clint and Penny A. Bragg (Book Review!)

Marriage on the Mend

by Clint and Penny A. Bragg

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Religion / Christian Life / Love & Marriage

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2017

Number of pages- 256

Age Group- Adult (Married Couples)

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $15.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4427-2

 Are you and your spouse looking for a way to serve God together?

The Braggs have written Your Marriage God’s Mission with step-by-step lessons to learn what your mission is and how to protect it.

This book is full of helpful information, links to videos, prayers and questions, to help discover the mission for your marriage.  They have also filled this book with their experiences and that of others.

About the Authors-

Clint and Penny A. Bragg work as marriage missionaries through their nonprofit organization, Inverse Ministries.  The website is www.inverseministries.org.  

My thoughts-

I thought this book was well written and the only one I’ve ever read about having a mission for your marriage.

I liked having the QR codes in the book, but I do not have a reader.  I really liked how the website was easy to find in the book.  The videos were labeled by chapter and easy to view.  I really liked that.  They were also well done.  If you aren’t able to watch the videos, they were just the icing on the the cake, everything important is covered in the book.

I really liked how this book was written for both men and women, many of the marriage books I have seen are either for the man or the woman.  I also have never read a book that focused on building a specific mission for a marriage. 

All parts of this book were important from the introduction that said how the book was set up to the questions at the end of each chapter.  I liked this book and what it can do to help marriages.

This is a book I recommend to all married couples who want to strengthen their marriage and have a goal with God in mind.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Your Marriage God’s Mission, by Clint and Penny A. Bragg, for free from Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

A Spiritual Heritage by Glen and Ellen Schuknecht (Book Review!)

A Spiritual Heritage: Connecting Kids and Grandkids to God and Family

by Glen and Ellen Schuknecht

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Religion / Christian Life / Family

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2017

Number of pages- 180

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $13.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4483-8

Do you desire to build a spiritual heritage for your children and family for years to come?  Do you know what spiritual heritage is? 

In A Spiritual Heritage you’ll learn what spiritual heritage from God is, how to become connected, and courage to stand for what you believe as a family.

About the Authors-

Ellen Schuknecht is the director of Family Wings, head of family ministries at Veritas Academy, and a national speaker.  Glen Schuknecht speaks and consults for Family Wings and ws the head of student discipleship and discipline and Veritas Academy.  They currently live in Texas.

My thoughts-

I appreciated this book.  I know how important it is to have a spiritual heritage to have a strong family that’s always there for one another and others outside of the family.  The Schuknechts did a good job of dividing the book into three parts to cover all parts of becoming a family with a strong spiritual heritage.  The parts talked about creating the atmosphere, choosing and implementing the characteristics, and even more tools to put into place to make a family stronger.

I learned it’s important to stick what you know and to never waver.  When you want to have a powerful family you need prayer, faith, and to follow God no matter.

I think this book would have been great if there had been a summary at the end of each chapter and questions or action steps.

This book is good for families who want to be more connected with each other and God.  Please pick up a copy today!     

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received A Spiritual Heritage, by Glen and Ellen Schuknecht, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey by Carolyn Miller (Book Review!)

The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey

Regency Brides A Legacy of Grace, Book 3

by Carolyn Miller

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Fiction / Christian / Romance / Historical

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2017

Number of pages- 296

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4452-4

Miss Clara DeLancey and her family have had leave London, because of a scandal.  She isn’t sure of herself anymore and is full of dispair.  She becomes friends with two young ladies and their brother in Brighton.  Clara’s mother, a viscountess, is upset that she is spending time with them.  Clara does what she can to help them into society, despite her mother.  They help her become happier. 

They all go for the Season to London, where Clara gets closer to Captain Benjamin Kemsley, the brother.  They aren’t of the same class, so they really shouldn’t be together.  It is made worse when they all go back to Brighton and are all invited to the Prince Regent’s Pavilion.

Will they be able to to be together?  Will Clara’s mother and society keep them apart forever?

About the Author-

Carolyn Miller currently lives in Australia with her husband and children and has long enjoyed Regency Romance.  She is a member of the Australian Christian Writers and the American Christian Fiction Writers.  Her website is www.carolynmillerauthor.com

My thoughts-

Once I saw this book was available to review, I was pleased.  I had read the rest of the books in the series and enjoyed them, so I was sure I would enjoy this one.  I did. 

I would have appreciated a synopsis of the other books in the series.  It has been a while since I read them, so I need to be reminded about what happend in them, since they are linked.  There was a family tree, but it wasn’t enough for me.  I needed a list of the characters and how they related to each other.

I really liked the Kemsley’s.  Tessa, Matilda, and Benjamin were the perfect people to help Clara after the trouble she had left behind in London.  I was proud of the woman that Clara became.  She left London as a young lady who did everything her parents said to having a mind and determination of her own.  It also helped her parents realize who she was and how they also needed to change.

This was a great book in the series.  I always enjoy reading a romance novel that also draws on the strength of God.  I’m looking forward to reading Carolyn Miller’s next book, Winning Miss Winthrop, the first book in the Regency Brides: A Promis of Hope series.

I recommend it!    

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey, by Carolyn Miller, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Everywhere You Go There’s a Zacchaeus Up a Tree by Roger Campbell

Everywhere You Go There’s a Zacchaeus Up a Tree

by Roger Campbell

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Religion / Christian / Essays

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2017

Number of pages- 176

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4458-6

Timothy Campbell has selected over 100 of his father’s newspaper columns for us to enjoy and learn from.  Roger Campbell wrote these columns about family, friends, life, and faith.  These columns end with pertinant Bible verse.

About the Authors-

Roger Campbell lived for twenty-two years in Michigan and worked as an author, columnist, and broadcaster.  He wrote Spurgeon’s Daily Treasures in the Psalms and Staying Positive in a Negative World.

Timothy Campbell (editor) is Roger’s son and lives in Michigan.  He is an ordained chaplain and is the owner of Life Resource Christian Counseling Center.

My thoughts-

This book was a lot of fun to read and glean information from.  I liked that they were short.  They would work perfectly as daily devotions, as they have Bible verses at the end.  The index was a helpful addition, because I could highlight the ones I especially liked and want to read again.  I noticed that it said that some of those columns are complete while others aren’t.  It would be nice if they were all complete.  I would be interested in seeing what was missing.

I plan on reading these columns to my children.  They’ll work well for reading at dinner, because I can read it then discuss it.  We’d be able to have something to talk about, instead of watching television.  These columns would work to build our family bond.

I enjoyed reading these columns and I’m sure you will too.  I highly recommend it.     

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Everywhere You Go There’s a Zacchaeus Up a Tree, by Roger Campbell, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

If We Make It Home by Christina Suzann Nelson (Book Review!)

If We Make it Home: A Novel of Faith and Survival in the Oregon Wilderness

by Christina Suzann Nelson

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Fiction / Christian

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2017

Number of pages- 272

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4495-1

Ireland, Vicky, and Jenna have been separated since they graduated from college.  Now those twenty-five years will melt away as they meet each other at the Emery House at the University of Northwest Oregon.  Their fourth friend, Hope, has recently passed away.  They decide to take a trip into the wilderness to honor Hope and themselves.  Ireland wants to escape the charges that are facing her at the college where she teaches.  Jenna wants to embrace being an empty-nester.  Vicky wants change her ministry and her life.

Will they work together to solve their problems?  What will happen when their guide is killed by a tree?

About the Author-

Christina Suzann Nelson currently lives in Oregon with her husband and four children.  She has had essays published in the Cup of Comfort series.  She is a member of ACFW and Oregon Christian Writers, and this is her first novel.

My thoughts-

When I first learned and read the description for this book, I thought it was nonfiction.  I thought this, because I thought I had heard of this really happening.  It seemed like something that would really happen.

I liked how this was novel was written from the perspectives of Jenna, Vicky, and Ireland.  If the reader would have only had the view of one of the characters, the story would haven’t been as rich.  I also wouldn’t have had the chance to relate to the three women.  I was able to learn more about them and see myself in them.

The questions at the end were some of the most thought-provoking that I have read in a fiction book.  They didn’t just involve the characters, they involved me and what I would do in the situations.  I appreciated that, because I was able to think about myself in ways that I haven’t before.

I thought this book had a lot of action and ideas that I hadn’t thought of before.  It made me wonder if I could survive lost in the wilderness.  It would be nice to know if it was based partially on a true story.

I recommend.   

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received If We Make It Home, by Cindy K. Sproles, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Liar’s Winter by Cindy K. Sproles (Book Review!)

Liar’s Winter: An Appalachian Novel

by Cindy K. Sproles

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Fiction / Christian / Historical

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2017

Number of pages- 248

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4453-1

Lochiel Ogle has been tormented and harmed for the first nineteen years of her life.  She has a red-wine birthmark that the mountain people call “the mark of the devil.”  She is rescued by a stranger after being beaten and left for dead by her brother.  While Lochiel is with him kindness and love are now a part of her new life.  Soon the new security will be gone as her brother finds her again and people fear her.

Will Lochiel ever be safe?  Why would her brother treat her so badly? 

About the Author-

Cindy K. Sproles currently lives with her family in East Tennessee.  She writes devotions and is a teacher/speaker and different conferences.  Her website is cindyksproles.com.

My thoughts-

Sproles’s writing brought me into Lochiel’s life and didn’t let me go until the book was over.  I find it both hard and not hard to believe that people were suspicious about her birthmark.  It’s the way it’s been for many years.  People are suspicious about people who are different than they are.  I would have liked a little more information about red-wine birthmarks somewhere in the book. 

I liked how this book was written from the first person point-of-view.  I could feel Lochiel’s joys and pains as I read the book.  She even thought the Devil was in her, because of how people treated her.  It wasn’t until her father found her that she began to know and feel the Lord.  I like all of the subtle hints of the Lord throughout the book. 

I could also see what it was like to live in the Appalachian Mountains of East Tennessee during the late 1890’s.

I think that many of you would enjoy this book.  I know I did.

(I really enjoyed the cover.)     

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Liar’s Winter, by Cindy K. Sproles, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

God Made the World By Debbie Rivers-Moore and Illustrated by Emma Haines (Book Review!)

God Made the World

By Debbie Rivers-Moore

Illustrated by Emma Haines

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Young Children / Nonfiction

Published by- Kregel Children’s book

Copyrighted- 2017

Number of pages- 4

Age Group- Young Children

Description of book- soft fabric cover and pages, listed price- $11.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4520-0

This soft fabric book, which closes with Velcro and has a hanging tab, so it can be attached near the infant or toddler, is full of engaging illustrations.   This book also includes a child-safety mirror and cloth which crinkles.

About the Author-

Debbie Rivers-Moore has written several children’s books, Tractor Ted and Lamb Loves Springtime.

About the Illustrator-

Emma Haines in currently in Nottingham, England.  She is an illustrator and designer.

My thoughts-

When I opened the box, I was impressd that it came in a bag with a header card (that means it could be hung for display).  The packaging keeps it in the best condition before it goes to that special someone.  I did have questions after I read the back of the card.  The packaging says that it is machine washable, and that it should only be surface cleaned.  After looking and touching this cloth book, I would only surface clean it.  I think that putting it in the washing machine would damage the materials that make the crinkle noise and also the mirror.  The mirror is a nice addition, but it made my face look strange, perhaps it wouldn’t do that for a smaller face.  I liked the handle at the top.  A small hand would be able to carry it, and it would help it to attach to other objects, like strollers, so it couldnt get lost.

The illustrations were realistic and colorful.  Young children will enjoy looking at the pages.  Parents can tell the children what the different animals and plants are, with greater details.

Young children will enjoy this book.  I recommend it.   

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received God Made the World, by Debbie Rivers-Moore and illustrated by Emma Haines, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

An Asian Harvest by Paul Hattaway (Book Review!)

An Asian Harvest

An Autobiography

by Paul Hattaway

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Nonfiction / Christian / Missionary / Autobiography

Published by- Lion Fiction

Copyrighted- 2017

Number of pages- 320

Age Group- Adult

Today Paul Hattaway leads the ministry he founded, Asia Harvest, which has supplied milliions of Bibles to Christians in Asia, including China.  Life wasn’t always so successful for him.  He grew up in New Zealand and left home at the age of 16.  He moved to Australia where he befriended a coworker, who taught him about God.  Hattaway knew God was calling him to be a Bible courier in China.  He went to Hong Kong and soon began carrying Bibles across the border.  This was the beginning of his missionary work, and this is the book that tells that story.

About the Author-

Paul Hattaway grew up in New Zealand.  He has been a Bible courier and missionary.  He is the founder and director of Asia Harvest, which serves and supports the Church in Asia with Bible printing and helping missionaries.

My thoughts-

I was inspired as I read An Asian Harvest.  Paul Hattaway has a very strong faith, which should inspire everyone.  He prayed, focused, and knew what he needed to do to accomplish what he felt God was telling him.

There were many Bible verses and quotes from other Christian missionaries and teachers.  They were the right quotes at the right time.  The best part of the Bible verses was that they were chunks and not just small snippets.  I find that there is a lot more to get out of a chunk of verses, instead of one verse or part of one.

I thought this was a good book.  I highly recommend you read it, because you will see what true faith in God means and will be inspired. 

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received An Asian Harvest, by Paul Hattaway, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

A Pair of Miracles by Karla Akins (Book Review!)

A Pair of Miracles: A Story of Autism, Faith and Determined Parenting

by Karla Akins

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Nonfiction / Family & Relationships / Autism Spectrum Disorders

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2017

Number of pages- 224

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4484-5

Karla Akins’s twins were born with autism and fetal alcohol disorder, and she was warned that they would never be able to function independently.  She wanted to prove that through God anything is possible. 

She has written this book to show that through God many things are possible.  She shares her triumphs and mistakes with humor and lots of practicle advice. 

It is with Akins’s faith and love that her twins are now grown and able to function independently in many ways by helping their father in the church and with other jobs.

About the Author-

Karla Akins has written five books, is the mother of five, and is a co-minister with her husband at Christian Fellowship Church in Indiana.  She has experience with homeschooling, private schools, and public schools.  Her website is www.KarlaAkins.com.

My thoughts-

A Pair of Miracles can be an extremely useful tool for any parent who has a child with autism.  This book is full of pertinent information and encouragement.  I had a hard time putting this book down, because I was laughing and crying as I went on Karla Akins’s journey with her newly adopted twins.  I learned how important it is to have a support system, go with what your instincts are telling you, and the best ways to educate the children.

While the entire book was helpful and had great strategies, I really enjoyed reading the appendices.  I learned different strategies for occupational therapy, different objects that can be used for fidget toys, a list of functional skills, and there are even more resources.

This is a well written book.  I recommend it to you!  I plan on making our homeschooling library aware of this tool.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received A Pair of Miracles, by Karla Akins, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Unreformed Martin Luther by Andreas Malessa (Book Review!)

The Unreformed Martin Luther: A Serious (and Not So Serious) Look at the Man Behind the Myths

by Andreas Malessa

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Nonfiction / Religion / History

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2017

Number of pages- 176

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $16.99, ISBN 978-0-5254-4456-2

What do you know about Martin Luther?  Are you able to separate the truth from the fiction?

Andreas Malessa has written this book which contains 25 chapters with ideas about if Luther was a warmonger, the first Lutheran, was married in secret, and much more. 

About the Author-

Andreas Malessa currently lives with his wife in Germany.  They have two daughters.  He is a radio and television journalist, author, lyricist, and theologian.

My thoughts-

I began reading this book with little knowledge of Martin Luther.  When I finished reading the book, I felt I knew more about him.  Now when I read about Luther, I will have a better idea about what is true or false.  I really appreciate that Malessa wrote this book.  I’m sure it will help many people who have ideas about what Luther did or said, and now they will have a greater sense about the truth.

The bibliography was very helpful.  It lists many sources, so the readers and I can do more research about the truth of what Luther said and did.  There are subject matters like drinking and sex in several of the chapters, so if younger children want to learn about Martin Luther, I would read the book with them.

This is a good and well written book.  I recommend it to you!

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received The Unreformed Luther, by Andreas Malessa, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Sacred Mundane by Kari Patterson (Book Review!)

Sacred Mundane: How to Find Freedom, Purpose, and Joy

by Kari Patterson

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Nonfiction / Religion / Christian Life / Spiritual Growth

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2017

Number of pages- 216

Age Group- Adult (Women)

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $15.99, ISBN 978-0-5254-4447-0

Do you wish your life was more?  Are you feeling trapped in all the of the day-to-day tasks?  This book is designed to help you realize that your daily tasks are to build you and others up.  You need to focus on Jesus and and the spiritual strength he’ll give you. 

This book has chapters that have been given specific words to help you grow.

• Let (in)
• Look
• Listen
• Engage
• Embrace
• Trust
• Thank
• Let (out)   

Sacred Mundane also inlude a small group study section, notes, and more about Kari Patterson.

About the Author-

Kari Patterson’s royalties from Sacred Mundane will go to World Vision and their work with women and children.  She is a mentor, Bible teacher, homeschool mom, and wife of a pastor.  She can be reached at www.karipatterson.com.  She is also on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

My thoughts-

As I read and studied this book, I found that I was learning a lot about really becoming peaceful in the life that I have.  I need to be active about reading the Bible, praying, and letting Jesus into my life.  If I do that, then I will find joy and peace in everything I do and show it to everyone I meet. 

• I liked all of the personal stories from Patterson.  It helped show me how hard it has been for her and how it takes a lot of effort to become peaceful when life doesn’t go as planned.
• Almost all books have their study questions or small group study sections at the end of the book.  I enjoy having those sections at the end of the chapter, because I’m able to easily find the questions while I’m reading the chapter.  I think that with this small group study that it was nice that it was at the end, because I could concentrate on reading the chapter and not worry at the time about what I need to do with the study (which was very thorough and helpful).

I know of other women who would gain a lot of understanding and peace during and after they have read about being able to live peacefully and happily in a life that seems mundane.  I would recommend this book to them and those I haven’t had the pleasure to meet.  It would also be perfect for small group studies.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Sacred Mundane: How to Find Freedom, Purpose, and Joy, by Kari Patterson, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Soldier Who Killed a King by David Kitz (Book Review!)

The Soldier Who Killed a King

by David Kitz

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Fiction / Christian / Historical

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2017

Number of pages- 286

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4485-2

David Kitz has written an intriguing novel from a different perspective of the Holy Week. 

Marcus Longinus is the centurion who is in charge of keeping the streets free from rebellion, because of the king who arrived on the back of a donkey.  King Herod, the Jewish high priest Caiaphas, and Pontius Pilate are all players in this final week of Jesus’s life.  This book shows the plotting of King Herod and the confrontations between Caiaphas and Pontius Pilate.  Marcus spends time with Jesus and begins to change his mind.

Will he change his mind about the man everyone is talking about or will he think the same as Caiaphas  

About the Author-

David Kitz has written Little Frogging Explores the BIG World and Psalms Alive! Connecting Heaven and Earth.  He is an outreach minister with Foursquare Church and a Bible dramatist.

My thoughts-

I thought a book that was about Jesus’s death would make me feel a lot more emotional, but this book didn’t.  It could be that since it was written from a man’s point-of-view, there wasn’t as much emotion as there would be if it was written from a woman’s point-of-view.  I think that men would like this book more than women, since it was written from Marcus Longinus’s point-of-view.

I liked how well each character was written, and I especially liked the eiplogue which talked more about the main characters of Herod Antipas, Joseph Caiaphas, Pontius Pilate, Jesus, and the centurion.     

I would recommend this book.  It has an interesting perspective from that of the Romans.  It is also a good book for those who want to learn more about Jesus and the week leading up to His resurection.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received The Soldier Who Killed a King, by David Kitz, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.