CROOKED LINES by HOLLY J. MICHAEL
What a wonderful book about two people from different countries whose stories seem to weave together . . Rebecca who resides in America is dealing with the death of her younger sister. She blames herself for the tragedy and wants to go away for awhile. Maybe she can find out what plans God has for her life. It must have been such a burden for Rebecca to carry guilt over her sister's death. Rebecca wants to travel to India and hopefully get some healing from the heartache she feels over her sister.
Sagai lives in South India where he is a priest. He yearns to draw closer to God, but he feels he is only grower further away from Him. As Rebecca searches for answers, she goes to a church where there is a priest speaking. The priest is friends with Sagai and Rebecca shares her desire with the priest about traveling to India. I really enjoyed how Rebecca and Sagai became pen pals with the priest. They started a friendship that lasted many years. The author does a great job of telling a story about two people looking for the same answer. How many times have we asked God for help? Have we ever felt like He isn't listening or has left us? What if we hear His voice clearly, but decide to take a different path instead?
The book is well written and definitely makes you take a look at your own life. Did we take the road God showed us, or did we take the crooked road which led us to trails, struggles, unhappiness and a feeling of loneliness for Him? It is a very engaging book with wonderful characters who draw you in with their desire to find answers and seek God. As I read the book, it made me really search my heart and think about the choices I have made. Did I follow the crooked lines or listen to Him and follow the straight lines that was my destiny?
I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network for an honest review.
Sagai lives in South India where he is a priest. He yearns to draw closer to God, but he feels he is only grower further away from Him. As Rebecca searches for answers, she goes to a church where there is a priest speaking. The priest is friends with Sagai and Rebecca shares her desire with the priest about traveling to India. I really enjoyed how Rebecca and Sagai became pen pals with the priest. They started a friendship that lasted many years. The author does a great job of telling a story about two people looking for the same answer. How many times have we asked God for help? Have we ever felt like He isn't listening or has left us? What if we hear His voice clearly, but decide to take a different path instead?
The book is well written and definitely makes you take a look at your own life. Did we take the road God showed us, or did we take the crooked road which led us to trails, struggles, unhappiness and a feeling of loneliness for Him? It is a very engaging book with wonderful characters who draw you in with their desire to find answers and seek God. As I read the book, it made me really search my heart and think about the choices I have made. Did I follow the crooked lines or listen to Him and follow the straight lines that was my destiny?
I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network for an honest review.
FAITH OF A FATHER BY FRANK BARBEHENN
Have you ever read a book that touched you so deeply, that after finishing it all you could do was cry. This book was one of the most powerful and touching books I've read in a very long time on a subject that is difficult to talk about. The author had real questions about if there really was a God as he struggled through trauma growing up. I'm sure it was very difficult to have an alcoholic mother who didn't seem to care about him and an emotionally abusive father. It's hard to feel like anyone cares when you feel unloved .
I was so impressed how the author found scriptures that helped him through this difficult time in his life. He found his way to God and realized that his belief was in the truth that Jesus came back to life. With that knowledge how could he not believe that God existed? The book is a letter to his daughter but for many of us it is a letter of healing , forgiveness and hope. He explains that although there was a time he cried out for protection and a feeling of rage, that we must remember as victims it is not our fault. It is so easy to say "If I had done this differently , maybe I would not have been treated so badly." There is no truth in that and it is never the victims fault. " Courage, real courage , is no quick fix. It doesn't come in a bottle or a pill. It comes from discipline. From taking everything life hands you and being your best either because of it or in spite if it." That statement really hit home for me. Through everything I went through as a child I always tell people I would not change a thing. It made me stronger and gave me a deeper trust in God. I believe things happen for a reason.
The author endured many traumas but I admire that he was able to find courage and with it came joy and hope. His love for God, his children and grandchildren is evident as he shares his story. He has given them a legacy that shows how no matter what you go through , God is there. He loves you and He will never leave you. The book is one I will return to often to give me encouragement as I strive to overcome my childhood trauma. Thank you for writing such a beautiful book that reminds us that God loves us and we are free. We don't have to live with emotional pain, but can be set free .
I received a copy of this amazing book from The BookClub Network for an honest review.
I was so impressed how the author found scriptures that helped him through this difficult time in his life. He found his way to God and realized that his belief was in the truth that Jesus came back to life. With that knowledge how could he not believe that God existed? The book is a letter to his daughter but for many of us it is a letter of healing , forgiveness and hope. He explains that although there was a time he cried out for protection and a feeling of rage, that we must remember as victims it is not our fault. It is so easy to say "If I had done this differently , maybe I would not have been treated so badly." There is no truth in that and it is never the victims fault. " Courage, real courage , is no quick fix. It doesn't come in a bottle or a pill. It comes from discipline. From taking everything life hands you and being your best either because of it or in spite if it." That statement really hit home for me. Through everything I went through as a child I always tell people I would not change a thing. It made me stronger and gave me a deeper trust in God. I believe things happen for a reason.
The author endured many traumas but I admire that he was able to find courage and with it came joy and hope. His love for God, his children and grandchildren is evident as he shares his story. He has given them a legacy that shows how no matter what you go through , God is there. He loves you and He will never leave you. The book is one I will return to often to give me encouragement as I strive to overcome my childhood trauma. Thank you for writing such a beautiful book that reminds us that God loves us and we are free. We don't have to live with emotional pain, but can be set free .
I received a copy of this amazing book from The BookClub Network for an honest review.
To Catch A Treat
by Linda O. Johnston
Sometimes, I think loving cats is perquisite for enjoying a good cozy. This story is proof that dog lovers can hold their own as the furry best friends are the real stars…
~I Read What You Write!
~I Read What You Write!
I enjoyed this one. The atmosphere is welcoming and fun.
~Shelley’s Book Case
~Shelley’s Book Case
To Catch a Treat (A Barkery & Biscuits Mystery)
Cozy Mystery
2nd in Series
Midnight Ink (May 8, 2016)
Paperback: 312 pages
E-Book ASIN: B01A5OGVOE
Cozy Mystery
2nd in Series
Midnight Ink (May 8, 2016)
Paperback: 312 pages
E-Book ASIN: B01A5OGVOE
Synopsis
Carrie Kennersly, veterinary technician and owner of the Barkery and Biscuits bake shop, agrees to a day of hiking with her brother Neal mostly because she wants to meet—and critique—his latest romantic interest, Janelle Blaystone. But instead of judgment, Carrie has only sympathy for Janelle, whose beloved black Labrador, Go, was recently dognapped along with many other purebred pets.Janelle thinks the culprit is Ada Arnist, a wealthy homeowner spotted at the dog parks where Go and the others were stolen. Soon after Janelle confronts her, though, Ada is found dead. With Janelle and Neal on the suspect list, Carrie must solve the mystery before the police bark up the wrong tree.
About The Author –
Linda O. Johnston’s first published fiction appeared in Ellery Queen’s Mystery Magazine and won the Robert L. Fish Memorial Award for Best First Mystery Short Story of the year. Since then, Linda, a former lawyer who is now a full-time writer, has published more short stories, novellas, and 38 romance and mystery novels, including the Pet Rescue Mystery Series
, a spinoff from her Kendra Ballantyne, Pet-Sitter mysteries
for Berkley Prime Crime, and Harlequin Romantic Suspense as well as the Alpha Force paranormal romance miniseries for Harlequin Nocturne. She additionally writes the Superstition Mysteries
for Midnight Ink. Her latest cozy mystery series, the Barkery and Biscuits Mysteries
are also from Midnight Ink.
, a spinoff from her Kendra Ballantyne, Pet-Sitter mysteries for Berkley Prime Crime, and Harlequin Romantic Suspense as well as the Alpha Force paranormal romance miniseries for Harlequin Nocturne. She additionally writes the Superstition Mysteries for Midnight Ink. Her latest cozy mystery series, the Barkery and Biscuits Mysteries are also from Midnight Ink.
Author Links:
Webpage: www.LindaOJohnston.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LindaOJohnsto
There is something to be said about book covers. This one really delivers brilliantly on grabbing your attention. Who wouldn't want to see what these dogs are up to? I love cozy mysteries and this book is another example of why I do. It has great characters such as Carrie who was a vet tech and now runs a bakery. Here is the great thing about this bakery; it not only offers human treats but animal treats. Guess Carrie couldn't quite give up her love of being a vet tech.
Carrie loves her job as a bakery owner but she of course she still loves animals. When she meets her brothers friend, Janelle she is upset to learn that her dog was dog napped. If you are a pet owner, you know how hard it is to lose one. Janelle is distraught over this and Carrie decides to see if maybe she can help find out what happened. Here is when the story explodes with intrigue and keeps you glued to the book. First we have a missing dog, then suddenly it reappears. I smell something fishy here, don't you? But just wait, the excitement has just gotten started . What is Janelle hiding? What tragedy happens next that will have Carrie start to question if there was a dog napping ?
Get ready for a fun ride as the adventure never stops in this story. I loved the characters and the story that kept me guessing. The story takes some twists that I didn't see coming which made me even more determined to finish the book. Fans of cozy mysteries and dog lovers will not be disappointment in this well written who dun-it book that is sure to be recommended by cozy mystery lovers. Find a comfy place to read and enjoy this wonderful book that the author has written with creativity, well rounded characters and a mystery that is sure to keep you guessing till the end.
I received a copy of this book from Great Escapes Virtual Book Tours for an honest review.
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Tour Participants
May 8 – I Read What You Write – REVIEW, INTERVIEW
May 9 – Author Annette Drake’s blog – GUEST POST
May 9 – T’s Stuff – SPOTLIGHT
May 10 – Queen of All She Reads – REVIEW, GUEST POST
May 10 – View from the Birdhouse – SPOTLIGHT
May 11 – Shelley’s Book Case – REVIEW
May 12 – Texas Book-aholic – REVIEW
May 13 – A Blue Million Books – INTERVIEW
May 14 – 3 Partners in Shopping, Nana, Mommy, & Sissy, Too! – SPOTLIGHT
May 15 – StoreyBook Reviews – REVIEW
May 16 – LibriAmoriMiei – REVIEW
May 16 – A Holland Reads – GUEST POST
May 17 – Community Bookstop – REVIEW
May 18 – Musings and Ramblings – REVIEW, INTERVIEW
May 19 – fuonlyknew – REVIEW
May 20 – Melina’s Book Blog – REVIEW
May 21 – Mystery Thrillers and Romantic Suspense Reviews – GUEST POST
May 22- deal sharing aunt – SPOTLIGHT
May 22- Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers – SPOTLIGHT
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THE AMISH FIREFIGHTER by LAURA V. HILTON
This is another outstanding book from a very gifted author. I loved this book so much, I read it in one day. Yes it is that good. It is not the typical feel good Amish story where everyone is happy and helps out. What it is though is a very intriguing book filled with shunning, accusations, mystery and an unforgettable story . Ms. Hilton delivers a very captivating story of characters that came to life.
Abigail has for some reason been sent to her aunt and uncles place to live. What would it feel like to one day wake up and be told you are no longer welcomed at your home? She is very confused by this, but of course obeys her family . She somehow gets mixed up with a group from the new town that seem to have trouble follow them wherever they go. Unfortunately one night while out with her friends, Abigail is somehow accused of a barn fire. There have been a rash of these devastating fires in the town and well you know the saying, Being at the wrong place at the wrong time. " How will Abigail convince a town that she just moved to that she is innocent of the fire?
Perhaps Sam can be of some assistance to her. He is a firefighter who seems to be positive that Abigail had something to do with it. I loved how the author wrote such strong independent characters who compliment each other well. As they get to know each other, you can feel the attraction come to life with gentle words of affection and a concern for each other's well being . Are there secrets in the town that could explain why Abigail was sent there? Does Sam have a past that he doesn't want anyone to know about? Well as the saying goes, " Oh what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive ."
The book was outstanding and I love the Amish words and their meaning at the beginning of the book. The book captures the true meaning of forgiveness, intrigue and a bit of romance that keeps readers glued to the story.
I received a copy of this book The BookClub Network for an honest review.
Abigail has for some reason been sent to her aunt and uncles place to live. What would it feel like to one day wake up and be told you are no longer welcomed at your home? She is very confused by this, but of course obeys her family . She somehow gets mixed up with a group from the new town that seem to have trouble follow them wherever they go. Unfortunately one night while out with her friends, Abigail is somehow accused of a barn fire. There have been a rash of these devastating fires in the town and well you know the saying, Being at the wrong place at the wrong time. " How will Abigail convince a town that she just moved to that she is innocent of the fire?
Perhaps Sam can be of some assistance to her. He is a firefighter who seems to be positive that Abigail had something to do with it. I loved how the author wrote such strong independent characters who compliment each other well. As they get to know each other, you can feel the attraction come to life with gentle words of affection and a concern for each other's well being . Are there secrets in the town that could explain why Abigail was sent there? Does Sam have a past that he doesn't want anyone to know about? Well as the saying goes, " Oh what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive ."
The book was outstanding and I love the Amish words and their meaning at the beginning of the book. The book captures the true meaning of forgiveness, intrigue and a bit of romance that keeps readers glued to the story.
I received a copy of this book The BookClub Network for an honest review.
SPOKEN FROM THE HEART: CHOOSING GRACE by CHERI SWALWELL
From the very first page, I knew I was in for a beautiful word from God. Ms. Swalwell writes gracefully from the heart and gives readers nuggets of wisdom. The story she shared about the closeness she has with her sister was so inspiring. What a blessing it was to read that even though it was going to be difficult to see her sister move so far away, she chose grace and made the move easier to deal with. I wonder how many times we have been selfish and made people feel guilty or hurt because we didn't like their choice?
I especially liked the chapter that talked about sharing our opinions with others. We all seem to think that we are entitled to share our opinions and at times force others to agree with us. We must really think we have arrived and been chosen to be in charge with that attitude. "We are not to judge, criticize or even try to make someone believe my views." So many of us today are quick to judge, point out sins that others have and then shun them. I remember the story in the bible about the woman who was an adulteress. Everyone was ready to stone her . But Jesus said, " Ye who is without sin, cast the first stone." Of course no one could throw a stone because we all have sinned. It's time for us to accept people and love them.
Another topic Ms. Swalwell talked about was so interesting to me. Yes I have asked the same question over and over again. Why do bad things happen to good people? If God loves everyone , why does he allow a child to get sick, a spouse to suddenly die, or a family to suddenly be without a home ? What I never thought about was that I'm not in charge. God knows exactly what He is doing and why He is doing it. "Even though we aren't in charge of how grace will look, it is our job to trust that our Heavenly Father knows what's best and has it under control. "
I have been blessed so much by this amazing book. It has given me a new way to look at things and to really examine my heart. God gives us grace, but have I been giving grace to others? I am honored that I was able to read a book that gave me a better understanding of grace. "When God extends His grace, His peace follows."
I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network for an honest review.
I especially liked the chapter that talked about sharing our opinions with others. We all seem to think that we are entitled to share our opinions and at times force others to agree with us. We must really think we have arrived and been chosen to be in charge with that attitude. "We are not to judge, criticize or even try to make someone believe my views." So many of us today are quick to judge, point out sins that others have and then shun them. I remember the story in the bible about the woman who was an adulteress. Everyone was ready to stone her . But Jesus said, " Ye who is without sin, cast the first stone." Of course no one could throw a stone because we all have sinned. It's time for us to accept people and love them.
Another topic Ms. Swalwell talked about was so interesting to me. Yes I have asked the same question over and over again. Why do bad things happen to good people? If God loves everyone , why does he allow a child to get sick, a spouse to suddenly die, or a family to suddenly be without a home ? What I never thought about was that I'm not in charge. God knows exactly what He is doing and why He is doing it. "Even though we aren't in charge of how grace will look, it is our job to trust that our Heavenly Father knows what's best and has it under control. "
I have been blessed so much by this amazing book. It has given me a new way to look at things and to really examine my heart. God gives us grace, but have I been giving grace to others? I am honored that I was able to read a book that gave me a better understanding of grace. "When God extends His grace, His peace follows."
I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network for an honest review.
Tuesday, May 10, 2016
Purchase your copy here.
About the book
Feeling stressed? Why not relax with an adult coloring book? Rachel J. Good’s Amish Quilts Coloring Book takes you back to a time and place that’s calm. Immerse yourself in a world of peace as you color the 25 different quilts.
Inspired by quilts seen in Amish country, many of these designs are based on traditional patterns, but some have been reimagined or repeated multiple times to create more intricate designs to color. Each quilt is printed on only one side of the page; facing pages contain inspirational Amish proverbs. To make the quilts even more colorful and interesting, sketch fabric designs – plaids, checks, paisleys, flowers, or abstract shapes – into the larger quilt blocks, use pattern stamps, or even collage fabric scraps to the pages. And if the designs inspire you to make quilts of your own, the pages can be used as templates for quilt-making.
I have not colored since I was a little child. There has been so much talk about adult coloring books. When i heard about this book, I knew I had to try it out. The designs are very intricate and beautiful. I was given two pages from the book to color. At first I wasn't sure I could do this. Once I started coloring, my creativity started taking over. I became lost in the task and had such fun creating my own little quilt. I love how there is an Amish proverb at the top of each page. As you color, you are inspired by the beautiful words of wisdom. When I had completed my pages, I was very relaxed and quite surprised at how nice they turned out. I imagined what a nice quilt they would make. If you are looking for something to relax you and see some amazing quilt patterns, I highly recommend this book.
I received two pages from Celebrate Lit Book Tour for an honest review.
About the Author
Rachel J. Good, inspirational author, writes life-changing, heartfelt novels of faith, hope, and forgiveness. She is the author of Amish romances in the Sisters & Friends series. She grew up near Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, the setting for her novels. A former teacher and librarian, she completed her MA from Vermont College while raising five children. She is presently an MFA student in Writing and Illustration at Hollins University. In addition to having more than 2200 articles and 30 books in print or forthcoming under several pseudonyms, she also juggles freelance editing and illustration careers. To buy the Amish Quilts Coloring Book: http://amzn.to/1VmIOUi. Visit Rachel at:
Website: www.racheljgood.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/RachelJGood1
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/racheljgood1/
Blog Stops
May 4: Bookworm Mama
May 5: Smiling Book Reviews
May 5: Cassandra M’s Place
May 6: Chas Ray’s Book Nerd Corner
May 6: Simple Harvest Reads
May 7: Blossoms and Blessings
May 7: D’S QUILTS & BOOKS
May 8: Tell Tale Book Reviews
May 9: Karen’s Krayons
May 9: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations
May 10: Texas Book-aholic
May 11: Singing Librarian Books
May 12: Through the Open Window
May 12: Petra’s Hope
May 13: Lighthouse Academy
May 13: Reader’s Cozy Corner
May 14: A Greater Yes
May 14: Artistic Nobody
May 15: Books! Books! Books!
May 15: Raining Butterfly Kisses
May 15: Quiet Quilter
Giveaway
To celebrate her tour, Rachel is giving away two autographed copies of her Amish Quilts Coloring Book! Click here to enter: https://promosimple.com/ps/986f
Monday, May 9, 2016
PRAYERFUL PASSAGES
Asking God's Help in Reconciliation,
Separation, and Divorce
by
Jack H. Emmott
Genre: Religion / Spirituality / Devotional
Publisher: Outskirts Press
Date of Publication: February 9, 2016
# of pages: 64
The power of asking God for help while struggling to save a marriage, separating, divorcing, or rebuilding life is the driving force behind Prayerful Passages: Asking God’s Help in Reconciliation, Separation, and Divorce by Jack H. Emmott. The fifty-six prayers are practical, touching on all shades of difficulty. They are specific and short; accessible and comforting; inspiring and inspired.
In Prayerful Passages, Jack has opened the doors of comfort and healing to guide a Christian struggling with the anger, loss, and grief that inevitably arise during the separation, divorce, and reconciliation stages of a marriage in peril. Open the doors of your own heart to God’s grace and healing. These prayers will aid you in your journey.
PRAISE FOR PRAYERFUL PASSAGES:
In Prayerful Passages, Jack Emmott, with profound clarity, helps faithful people struggling in their marriage to find not only the words they need to pray, but also the Divine Presence and power they need in challenging life circumstances. -- Rev. Stuart Bates, Rector, St. Francis Episcopal Church, Houston
****
This book will make an ideal gift for a friend or family member going through divorce. I wish the families I’ve seen in family court had been able to make their difficult passages with these prayers in their hearts and on their lips. This book would have alleviated their anguish.-- Frank Rynd, J.D., Former Family Law Judge
****
A compelling sharing of compassion—this book shows the impact a prayerful, Christ-centered life can have on the human spirit. What a powerful read . . . I was wowed by its wisdom. -- Larry R. Cook, CPA
****
All you have to do is open to the table of contents to see the brilliance of this wise voice that pushes us all to see the world as a more inclusive, loving place where we are all perfectly imperfect children of God. Jack offers his reader empathy, wisdom and redemption for the human spirit. Don’t miss the wisdom of a man who has lived into surrender at an early age as his polio left him trapped in an iron lung to survive. But, he didn’t just survive; he blossomed and thrives today, venerating the love of the Divine for all of us. This is a must-read for all of us who want to live more fully into our loving relationships.-- Micki Grimland, LCSW, Owner and Chief Psychotherapist, Southwest Psychotherapy Associates
What makes Prayerful Passages: Asking God’s Help in Reconciliation, Separation, and Divorce appealing is the courage, calling and faith of its author Jack H. Emmott. In 1954, just as the Salk vaccine was entering massive medical trials, Jack was stricken with polio and paralyzed from the neck down. With faith in God and selfless help from his parents, educators, healthcare providers, and later his wife Dorothy and his close-knit family, he became a successful lawyer, civic leader, volunteer, inspirational speaker, author, and song writer. Though today confined to a motorized wheelchair, he has long navigated as a full member of society.
As a member at Gray Reed & McGraw in Houston, Texas, with over thirty-five years working in family law, Jack primarily focuses on collaborative law, a resolution option for divorcing couples. In collaborative process, couples mutually agree to voluntary disclosure of relevant information, which is much faster and less expensive than formal discovery. The children are protected and shared, not divided like property.
His life experience and abiding faith in God led Jack to write Prayerful Passages: Asking God’s Help in Reconciliation, Separation, and Divorce. Jack says, “The exact words of the title Prayerful Passages literally came to me one night during evening prayer. I felt, at that very moment, I had received an invitation from God to write a book of prayers to help others and to please the God who had always accompanied me in the darkness of disability.”
I love how the author gives his own testimony which draws readers to him. If you have been in a relationship that is going through tough times, it is easier to understand what another person is dealing with. I often hear people say " Oh I understand. I know exactly how you feel." But let's be honest , if you haven't experienced what they are going through you don't really understand their pain, hurt or senses of loss.
This book is filled with examples of how to pray specifically for your spouse and marriage among other topics. It is designed by chapter to target specific areas that are specific to your needs. I appreciate that the author writes with grace and doesn't sound like he is forcing his beliefs on you. The prayers are powerful because they come from the heart.
It is easy to get discouraged when you feel that your prayers are not working, but God does hear us and He is working on our behalf. When we have been hurt by someone, it may be difficult to pray for them. Emmott does a great job in helping readers push past their hurt and pray for things like "Praying together as Parents," or "Prayer for God to Transform the Bad into Good." Using this book can be a tool to heal your brokenness and draw closer to God. God wants us to talk to Him and prayer is a way to communicate with Him. I find myself sometimes having trouble focusing when I pray. This book has specific prayers that for me help me stay focused without struggling on finding the words to say.
"In prayer, we get clarity from God's lips as to what we need to do or not do in relation to Him, ourselves, and to those around us, including our spouses and children. "
I received a copy of this book from Lone Star Book Blog Tours for an honest review.
Check out these other great blog stops on the tour!
5/4 Missus Gonzo – Review
5/5 Books and Broomsticks -- Author Interview #1
5/6 Hall Ways Blog – Review
5/8 My Book Fix Blog – Excerpt #1
5/9 Texas Book-aholic – Review
5/10 Book Crazy Gals – Author Interview #2
5/11 The Page Unbound – Excerpt #2
5/12 The Librarian Talks – Review
5/13 A Novel Reality -- Author Interview #3
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