Tuesday, April 11, 2017
WITH FRIENDS LIKE THESE by N. J. LINDQUIST
This is my first time to read a book by this author but it will certainly not be the last. The story was so emotional at times that I had to wipe tears away from my eyes. The author captured the turmoil teens go through so eloquently. I became so engrossed in the story that I felt like I was there at the high school hanging out with the characters from the book. The author has done an excellent job of bringing a story to life and is easily one everyone can relate to. I remember going to high school and being very shy. I wanted everyone to like me, but I didn't fit in. In this story I found myself identifying with several of the characters.
Glen lives in a small town and has been friends with several kids since they were little. As he attends high school the dynamics are very different for him. He has a huge crush on Nicole but knows that Charlie likes her. I really liked the how the author showed Glen's struggle with trying to be Charlie's friend. Charlie is not easy to like. He seems to have all the girls wanting to date him and things always going his way. What was great about the story was how we are reminded not to judge others. Charlie may seem to be popular, but is he really happy? Does he feel loved by his parents?
It may seem that someone has it all together, but inside they may be fighting loneliness, pride, anger , self-worth or many other things we can't see. I loved how Glen tried to be friends with everyone but signs of jealousy started popping up. I don't want to tell too much of the story because it is one that everyone needs to read. Throughout the book we find several characters who struggle with faith. I loved how the author shared their thoughts and how easy it was to relate to them. Glen is such a great character and I really enjoyed watching him discover God and start to turn to Him for help. This is a great book about the many struggles teens face and how they reach out for answers. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network and the author. The review is my own opinion.
Glen lives in a small town and has been friends with several kids since they were little. As he attends high school the dynamics are very different for him. He has a huge crush on Nicole but knows that Charlie likes her. I really liked the how the author showed Glen's struggle with trying to be Charlie's friend. Charlie is not easy to like. He seems to have all the girls wanting to date him and things always going his way. What was great about the story was how we are reminded not to judge others. Charlie may seem to be popular, but is he really happy? Does he feel loved by his parents?
It may seem that someone has it all together, but inside they may be fighting loneliness, pride, anger , self-worth or many other things we can't see. I loved how Glen tried to be friends with everyone but signs of jealousy started popping up. I don't want to tell too much of the story because it is one that everyone needs to read. Throughout the book we find several characters who struggle with faith. I loved how the author shared their thoughts and how easy it was to relate to them. Glen is such a great character and I really enjoyed watching him discover God and start to turn to Him for help. This is a great book about the many struggles teens face and how they reach out for answers. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network and the author. The review is my own opinion.
 About the book:
For many people, remaining optimistic and feeling positive about themselves and their lives
is a constant battle - especially when circumstances are difficult and life is hard.
For others, negativity is something that only sneaks
up from time to time, yet still wreaks havoc in their hearts. Regardless of the root causes, once pessimistic thoughts permeate our minds, our feelings and emotions begin to control us instead of us controlling them. Eventually it doesn't seem possible to stay positive, happy, and full of joy, and negative thought patterns shake our faith, causing us to sink emotionally, mentally, and spiritually over time. But it doesn't have to be that way. Despite what storms roll in, hearts anchored in God don't sink. When we change the way we think, we can change the way we feel and live, even if our circumstances remain the same. Intentionally embracing the opportunity to experience a transformed heart and a renewed mind opens the door for a changed life, because a positive mind will always lead to a more positive life.
In
Unsinkable Faith, author and Proverbs 31 Ministries speaker Tracie Miles offers hope for women who struggle with negativity. Each chapter explores Tracie's and other women's personal stories, showing how they rose above their circumstances by transforming and renewing their minds.
Unsinkable Faith is a breath of fresh air for anyone longing for a heart full of joy, an unbreakable smile, and a new, more optimistic perspective on life. This book will equip you to:
-Replace pessimism with positive thinking by becoming the captain of your thoughts;
-Learn how true joy and happiness are based on choice, not circumstances;
-Overcome unhealthy habits of negative thinking by intentionally implementing three easy mind-renewing steps;
-Stop feeling hopeless and pitiful, and start feeling hope-filled and powerful instead; and
-Discover that when you change the way you think, you change the way feel, and in turn you can change your life completely.
 About the author:
I really enjoyed this book and loved the insight the author had about our negative thoughts. We all go through trials and sometimes it is hard to have a good attitude. No matter what our circumstances are, we can choose to have a positive attitude or choose to allow the enemy to take us further into despair. In this book the author gives us tools to help us overcome our fears and learn to have a great attitude.
I loved the authors examples from her own life and others to help us see how anyone can get trapped in thinking we have done something wrong, have anger issues, depression or whatever else the enemy wants to throw at us. I never thought about how my unhappy face or thoughts were affecting me. I loved when the author addressed an issue I have struggled with all my life. My parents always told me I was stupid, ugly and would never amount to anything. That has stayed with me for way to long. "If we listen to all this negative self-talk , which is not from God, we might end up sinking into an ocean of discouragement and hopelessness and feeling that we can never swim our way out of peaceful waters."
I like the study at the end of each chapter. The author recaps what the subject was, asks a few questions for us to think on and gives us scriptures to reinforce God's word. The book is filled with testimonies that show us that are others are going through similar issues. We need to always be alert to the traps of the enemy. I know for me it is that small voice saying I'm not good enough. I loved when the author said, "If we aren't mentally and spiritually prepared for battle, it is unlikely we will win. " I thought about the men and women who are serving our country . They have to always be prepared for battle, be alert and not let their guard down. I am encouraged after reading this book that I can change my thinking, become more positive and live a life of freedom. The catch is, I have to do my part. I have to choose not to listen to the enemy and fall for his tricks.
"Life is not always as we think it should be, but it is always as God planned it to be."
I received a copy of this book from LitFuse. The review is my own opinion.
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Monday, April 10, 2017
A TRAIL OF CRUMBS by SUSIE FINKBEINER
I loved reading this book so much, I hated to see it end. It sure did bring back some memories for me. My granddad lived in Oklahoma. We would go there every summer and stay at his farm. As the author described the dust storm, I vividly remember going to the cellar one time when the storm started heading to my granddad's farm. The author captured the moment with clarity and I could feel the dust as it pelted my skin as I ran to safety.
What a terrifying moment for Pearl and her family that tragic day when the storm hit suddenly. I found myself screaming at Pearl to run faster as the storm engulfed her. The family is devastated by a tragic loss and I could feel the powerful emotions of the pain they endured. I cried when the family grieved for their loss. When the decision is made to leave Oklahoma , each family member must say goodbye to their home . Can you imagine leaving most of your belongings and traveling to another state?
The author takes us to the depression era where rations are the norm for families. They must be careful with their food and make it last as long as they can. I loved learning about this era and thought the author did a great job of making the story come to life. Pearl has had a hard time in her short life and hopefully the move will help her move forward. It was nice to see her friend Ray join the family on their move. Ray was sad that his mom wasn't able to provide for him, but his dream was for her to send for him soon. As a mother I don't think I could leave one of my children behind. It must have been painful for Ray's mother to let her son go, but perhaps she was hoping for a better life for him. The story is emotional, and has quite a few surprises in it.
I loved the librarian that Pearl met in their new town. She tried so hard to pick out a book she thought was proper for Pearl to read. I did laugh at this because I remember going to the library every week and hoping I could find just the right book. When Pearl started reading The Wizard of Oz my eyes lit up. I loved that book as a child and never missed the movie when it came on TV. Pearl is such a wonderful character and I loved her strength and faith. The author writes a story that tells about a family who must have faith , hope and love as they journey to what God has for them. I look forward to the next book that continues Pearl's story.
I received a copy of this book from Kregel Book Tours. The review is my own opinion.
What a terrifying moment for Pearl and her family that tragic day when the storm hit suddenly. I found myself screaming at Pearl to run faster as the storm engulfed her. The family is devastated by a tragic loss and I could feel the powerful emotions of the pain they endured. I cried when the family grieved for their loss. When the decision is made to leave Oklahoma , each family member must say goodbye to their home . Can you imagine leaving most of your belongings and traveling to another state?
The author takes us to the depression era where rations are the norm for families. They must be careful with their food and make it last as long as they can. I loved learning about this era and thought the author did a great job of making the story come to life. Pearl has had a hard time in her short life and hopefully the move will help her move forward. It was nice to see her friend Ray join the family on their move. Ray was sad that his mom wasn't able to provide for him, but his dream was for her to send for him soon. As a mother I don't think I could leave one of my children behind. It must have been painful for Ray's mother to let her son go, but perhaps she was hoping for a better life for him. The story is emotional, and has quite a few surprises in it.
I loved the librarian that Pearl met in their new town. She tried so hard to pick out a book she thought was proper for Pearl to read. I did laugh at this because I remember going to the library every week and hoping I could find just the right book. When Pearl started reading The Wizard of Oz my eyes lit up. I loved that book as a child and never missed the movie when it came on TV. Pearl is such a wonderful character and I loved her strength and faith. The author writes a story that tells about a family who must have faith , hope and love as they journey to what God has for them. I look forward to the next book that continues Pearl's story.
I received a copy of this book from Kregel Book Tours. The review is my own opinion.
Called to Justice
by Edith Maxwell
I loved going to 1888 seeing how the author brought us into Rose’s life…
~Community Bookstop
~Community Bookstop
I enjoyed reading Called For Justice. The authors attention to detail in describing the job(s) tasks of mid wife in the time period made for an interesting read.
~The Journey Back
~The Journey Back
Called to Justice is as much historical fiction as it is cozy mystery, and I found both aspects of the story to be riveting.
~The Book’s the Thing
~The Book’s the Thing
Called to Justice (A Quaker Midwife Mystery)
Cozy Mystery
2nd in Series
Midnight Ink (April 8, 2017)
Paperback: 312 pages
ISBN-13: 978-0738750323
Kindle ASIN: B01FOR0YRW
Quaker midwife Rose Carroll is enjoying the 1888 Independence Day evening fireworks with her beau when a teenaged Quaker mill girl is found shot dead. After a former slave and fellow Quaker is accused of the murder, Rose delves into the crime, convinced of the man’s innocence. An ill-mannered mill manager, an Irish immigrant, and the victim’s young boyfriend come under suspicion even as Rose’s future with her handsome doctor suitor becomes unsure. Rose continues to deliver babies and listen to secrets, finally figuring out one criminal – only to be threatened by the murderer, with three lives at stake. Can she rescue herself, a baby, and her elderly midwifery teacher in time?Praise for Delivering the Truth
by Edith Maxwell (Book 1 in this series)Ms. Maxwell weaves a sturdy cloth from the stories of the various characters in Delivering the Truth.
~Back PorchervationsI enjoyed every minute of this book…
~Shelley’s Book CaseThis was a very entertaining read. I really enjoy reading Edith Maxwell’s writing as it flows so well.
~Melina’s Book Blog…a different type of historical cozy…I enjoyed reading a book where the protagonist is a midwife and of the Quaker faith…
~Storeybook ReviewsRose is a smart character and the history of the story is done well.
~A Chick Who ReadsThe author takes us into Rose’s life, making us feel as though we are right there with her in every situation. The mystery is well-developed and leaves the reader guessing right to the end.
~Book Babble
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Agatha-nominated and Amazon best-selling author Edith Maxwell writes the Quaker Midwife Mysteries
and the Local Foods Mysteries
, the Country Store Mysteries
(as Maddie Day
), and the Lauren Rousseau Mysteries
(as Tace Baker
), as well as award-winning short crime fiction. Maxwell lives north of Boston with her beau and three cats, and blogs with the other Wicked Cozy Authors. You can find her on Facebook, twitter, Pinterest, and at www.edithmaxwell.com.
and the Local Foods Mysteries, the Country Store Mysteries (as Maddie Day), and the Lauren Rousseau Mysteries (as Tace Baker), as well as award-winning short crime fiction. Maxwell lives north of Boston with her beau and three cats, and blogs with the other Wicked Cozy Authors. You can find her on Facebook, twitter, Pinterest, and at www.edithmaxwell.com.
http://www.edithmaxwell.com
http://wickecozyauthors.com
https://www.facebook.com/EdithMaxwellAuthor/
https://twitter.com/edithmaxwell
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5826191.Edith_Maxwell
http://www.amazon.com/Edith-Maxwell/e/B001HQ0XU8
https://www.pinterest.com/edithmaxwell/
http://wickecozyauthors.com
https://www.facebook.com/EdithMaxwellAuthor/
https://twitter.com/edithmaxwell
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5826191.Edith_Maxwell
http://www.amazon.com/Edith-Maxwell/e/B001HQ0XU8
https://www.pinterest.com/edithmaxwell/
Purchase Links:
Amazon B&N
The author does a great job of detailing the time period the story is set in. I loved reading about the Quakers and their way of life. It was interesting to learn how they spoke in those days. They definitely had strong faith and abided by the rules. Rose Carroll is a midwife and sometime sleuth. The combination makes for a very well written mystery with twists that are sure to surprise readers.
While attending an Independence Day celebration Rose encounters a young girl distraught and needing help. Hannah is a slight girl with a soft spoken voice. Hannah is very troubled and confides in Rose . I can't imagine what it would be like in those days to have a secret like Hannah's. Before the evening is over a gunshot is heard and a life is cut short. Who killed Hannah? I found it interesting that fingers started pointing at a former slave who Rose knows is innocent. The author does a good job of showing what kind of detective work was done in those days.
We are fortunate to have the technologies available to us today to help solve crimes. Rose is determined to prove her friend innocent which leads to danger for her. The suspects start stacking up and I loved reading about the reasons they each had to kill the young girl. The story is intense at times and I liked how the author spoke of abuse in a sensitive way. Who would abuse a young girl and try to blame someone else? Did Hannah know something that cost her dearly?
I thought the author did an excellent job of describing a baby's birth during a time when there were no modern equipment. Rose is very calm while delivering a child and I loved how she calmed the mother down . Rose is a great character and I loved the little romance going on between her and her boyfriend. This is a great book with a mystery that takes us to the nineteenth century. We get to see first hand how people lived through the words of the author. It was a wonderful glimpse into the past and a mystery that is intriguing. The ending is so good with unexpected twists . I look forward to the next book in this exciting series.
I received a copy of this book from The Great Escapes Book Tour. The review is my own opinion.
Tour Participants
April 5 – Community Bookstop – REVIEW
April 5 – My Journey Back – REVIEW
April 6 – Bibliophile Reviews – REVIEW, INTERVIEW
April 6 – The Book’s the Thing – REVIEW, GUEST POST
April 7 – Shelley’s Book Case – REVIEW
April 7 – Books,Dreams,Life – INTERVIEW
April 8 – Texas Book-aholic – REVIEW
April 8 – Lisa Ks Book Reviews – REVIEW, INTERVIEW
April 9 – The Power of Words – REVIEW
April 9 – Cozy Up With Kathy – REVIEW, GUEST POST
April 10 – Melina’s Book Blog – REVIEW
April 10 – View from the Birdhouse – SPOTLIGHT
April 11 – Rainy Day Reviews – REVIEW
April 11 – Island Confidential – GUEST POST
April 12 – Book Babble – REVIEW
April 12 – Queen of All She Reads – REVIEW
April 13 – Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting – REVIEW
April 13 – A Blue Million Books – INTERVIEW
April 14 – Leigh Anderson Romance – REVIEW
April 14 – Author Annette Drake’s blog – SPOTLIGHT
April 15 – StoreyBook Reviews – GUEST POST
April 15 – deal sharing aunt – INTERVIEW
April 16 – Brooke Blogs – REVIEW, GUEST POST
April 16 – A Holland Reads – SPOTLIGHT
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Friday, April 7, 2017
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