WITH GOOD INTENTIONS by JO HUDDLESTON
This is another wonderful good feeling book by the gifted author. I just love reading her books and hope to get all of her books read soon. She always writes with such calm and peace. It is easy to fall in love with her characters because they are nice and compassionate.
Jean Stewart and her mom run an ice cream shop with the story set in the late 1950s. I love reading about the relaxed atmosphere in the town and the small town feel it has. Jean has a big dream and someone is trying to take that away . It is never easy when a big power corporation comes to town with the intentions of buying you out. The nerve of William Wainworth thinking he can come in to the quaint town and buy companies out. I loved Jean's determination to dig her feet in and not sale.
William is a dedicated worker and has a big job trying to get Jean and her mom to sale. William is a nice man who wants to please his father. He doesn't want to let his dad down and will go to any length to get the contract signed. The story is fun to read and I loved how the author showed how one lie can turn into another lie and well trouble follows. I had to laugh at William because he just can't win Jean over. As they get to know each other, what happens when Jean finds out William has been less than honest with her? Is buying Jean's building more important to William than his feelings for her?
The story is full of southern charm , wonderful characters and a lesson in lies and forgiveness. Don't miss this sweet story and find out if Jean's dream comes true.
I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network and the author. The review is my own opinion.
Jean Stewart and her mom run an ice cream shop with the story set in the late 1950s. I love reading about the relaxed atmosphere in the town and the small town feel it has. Jean has a big dream and someone is trying to take that away . It is never easy when a big power corporation comes to town with the intentions of buying you out. The nerve of William Wainworth thinking he can come in to the quaint town and buy companies out. I loved Jean's determination to dig her feet in and not sale.
William is a dedicated worker and has a big job trying to get Jean and her mom to sale. William is a nice man who wants to please his father. He doesn't want to let his dad down and will go to any length to get the contract signed. The story is fun to read and I loved how the author showed how one lie can turn into another lie and well trouble follows. I had to laugh at William because he just can't win Jean over. As they get to know each other, what happens when Jean finds out William has been less than honest with her? Is buying Jean's building more important to William than his feelings for her?
The story is full of southern charm , wonderful characters and a lesson in lies and forgiveness. Don't miss this sweet story and find out if Jean's dream comes true.
I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network and the author. The review is my own opinion.
SPOKEN FROM THE HEART: WALKING IN FREEDOM by CHERI SWALWELL
I couldn't wait to read this book. I really have a problem with fear. I fear that something is going to happen to me or someone in my family. I fear that we won't have enough money to pay bills and the list goes on. The enemy has done a great job of telling me lies and kept my mind captive for years. As I began the book, I wanted to shout out loud and say "thank you" to the author. It's like she wrote the book just for me and knew exactly what I have been going through. We all want to live a life of freedom, but we get trapped with walking in condemnation and not conviction.
I loved how the author explained the difference between condemnation and conviction in a way that made it clearer for me to understand. God doesn't want us to walk around feeling guilty. What He does want is for us to recognize what we have done wrong, ask forgiveness and move on. Don't let the enemy continue to use things to keep you chained up. When the author used the term, " fight or flight " I suddenly realized I have heard people say that about me .I understand it now and know I have been the person who is anxious and wants to hurry up and fix things or run away from my problems. I'm learning to turn to God and allow Him to speak to me and gently correct me.
I loved the chapter the author talked about being healed from a food addiction I sat up very straight and knew this chapter was for me. The author talked about her food addiction and reminded me of my own addiction. She goes go on to talk about how she has dealt with fear in her life . That is an addiction I feel I have. I am fearful of many things and it feels like I'm addicted to fear. I have panic attacks that have taken over my life. I let it rule my life and continue to struggle with it even today. I am encouraged though, by reading this book that I can be set free from fear and live in freedom. I encourage everyone to get a copy if this book that will encourage you as you walk in freedom. A big thanks to the author for being transparent and sharing part of your life with us.
"Whatever challenge you are facing, if you continue to trust God, He will restore... in His time, in His way."
I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.
I loved how the author explained the difference between condemnation and conviction in a way that made it clearer for me to understand. God doesn't want us to walk around feeling guilty. What He does want is for us to recognize what we have done wrong, ask forgiveness and move on. Don't let the enemy continue to use things to keep you chained up. When the author used the term, " fight or flight " I suddenly realized I have heard people say that about me .I understand it now and know I have been the person who is anxious and wants to hurry up and fix things or run away from my problems. I'm learning to turn to God and allow Him to speak to me and gently correct me.
I loved the chapter the author talked about being healed from a food addiction I sat up very straight and knew this chapter was for me. The author talked about her food addiction and reminded me of my own addiction. She goes go on to talk about how she has dealt with fear in her life . That is an addiction I feel I have. I am fearful of many things and it feels like I'm addicted to fear. I have panic attacks that have taken over my life. I let it rule my life and continue to struggle with it even today. I am encouraged though, by reading this book that I can be set free from fear and live in freedom. I encourage everyone to get a copy if this book that will encourage you as you walk in freedom. A big thanks to the author for being transparent and sharing part of your life with us.
"Whatever challenge you are facing, if you continue to trust God, He will restore... in His time, in His way."
I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.
Southern Fried
by Tonya Kappes
With a fantastic cast of characters and a story filled with humor and murder you won’t be able to put it down.
~Shelley’s Book Case
~Shelley’s Book Case
Tonya Kappes had me laughing from the opening pages of Southern Fried…
~fundinmental
~fundinmental
I love these books because the whodunit isn’t all that obvious. Just when I think I’ve figured it out, a new wrench is thrown into the mix and I’m back to square one.
~Reading Is My SuperPower
~Reading Is My SuperPower
Full of Tonya’s sass and spirit, this series keeps up a strong pace and keeps Sheriff Kenni on her toes.
~Laura’s Interests
~Laura’s Interests
This is an engaging story full of misdirection and undercurrents…
~ Jemima Pett, Author
~ Jemima Pett, Author
Southern Fried (A Kenni Lowry Mystery)
Cozy Mystery
2nd in Series
Henery Press (April 4, 2017)
Paperback: 252 pages
ISBN-13: 978-1635111873
Kindle ASIN: B01N212SJ8
Synopsis
In the South, it’s better when the food is fried and the secrets kept buried…After the dead body of a beloved Cottonwood resident is found tangled up in an electric fence, Sheriff Kenni Lowry has a hunch that somethin’ ain’t right. Her investigation heats up with a fierce cook-off competition, a euchre game where the intel is sweeter than the brownies, and a decades old family recipe that may just be the proof in the pudding.The icing on the cake: Kenni is fighting an attraction to her recently sworn-in deputy sheriff, and election season is hot on her tail. When the killer comes after who she holds most dear, even her poppa’s ghostly guidance might not be enough to keep her and her own out of the frying pan.
About the Author
For years, USA Today bestselling author Tonya Kappes has been self-publishing her numerous mystery and romance titles with unprecedented success. She is famous not only for her hilarious plotlines and quirky characters, but her tremendous marketing efforts that have earned her thousands of followers and a devoted street team of fans. Be sure to check out Tonya’s website for upcoming events and news and to sign up for her newsletter! Tonyakappes.com
Kenni Lowry Mystery Series
Also by Tonya Kappes
Olivia Davis Paranormal Mystery Series
Magical Cures Mystery Series
Grandberry Falls Series
A Laurel London Mystery Series
A Divorced Diva Beading Mystery Series
Bluegrass Romance Series
Women’s Fiction
Young Adult
A Ghostly Southern Mystery Series
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Purchase Links
Oh my heavens this is one funny book. The author has really gotten the southern lingo and charm down for her characters. I loved everything about this book including the delicious southern dishes that made my mouth water. If you haven't had fried okra you are really missing out. There are many ways to make okra, but someone has the perfect recipe to kill for.
Kenni is the sheriff of the town of Cottonwood, Kentucky. She is good at her job and it doesn't hurt to have a hunky deputy named Finn by her side. She does have a secret weapon that could prove to be very valuable . What is her secret weapon? Well that's easy to answer once you read this laugh out loud book. The people in the small town are quirky, funny and hiding secrets . When a body turns up in Myrna's greenhouse, she is more concerned about her prized tomatoes than the dead body. Those tomatoes were going to win her a big prize in the cooking contest, but now they probably aren't good to use. Who had it in for the poor person who died?
The suspects are plentiful and the secrets are many among this small town . As the investigation heats up, it seems there is a very special cookbook that everyone wants to get their hands on. I really loved how family members were ready to throw each other under the bus to take the suspicion off themselves. Sometimes blood isn't always thicker than water. When Kenni starts to get close to the truth, someone wants to teach her a lesson. What do they take from her that is very special? Once again the author writes an intriguing book filled with great characters . I loved trying to figure out who the killer was and it sure was a surprise to me. I can't wait for the next book in this wonderful series.
I received a copy of this book from The Great Escapes Book Tour. The review is my own opinion
Kenni is the sheriff of the town of Cottonwood, Kentucky. She is good at her job and it doesn't hurt to have a hunky deputy named Finn by her side. She does have a secret weapon that could prove to be very valuable . What is her secret weapon? Well that's easy to answer once you read this laugh out loud book. The people in the small town are quirky, funny and hiding secrets . When a body turns up in Myrna's greenhouse, she is more concerned about her prized tomatoes than the dead body. Those tomatoes were going to win her a big prize in the cooking contest, but now they probably aren't good to use. Who had it in for the poor person who died?
The suspects are plentiful and the secrets are many among this small town . As the investigation heats up, it seems there is a very special cookbook that everyone wants to get their hands on. I really loved how family members were ready to throw each other under the bus to take the suspicion off themselves. Sometimes blood isn't always thicker than water. When Kenni starts to get close to the truth, someone wants to teach her a lesson. What do they take from her that is very special? Once again the author writes an intriguing book filled with great characters . I loved trying to figure out who the killer was and it sure was a surprise to me. I can't wait for the next book in this wonderful series.
I received a copy of this book from The Great Escapes Book Tour. The review is my own opinion
GIVEAWAY!!!!!
For a chance to win an e-copy of Southern Fried leave a comment on this blog. Don't forget to leave your email.
Tour Participants
April 4 – The Book Diva’s Reads – GUEST POST, GIVEAWAY
April 4 – Brooke Blogs – CHARACTER GUEST POST, GIVEAWAY
April 5 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT, GIVEAWAY
April 5 – Shelley’s Book Case – REVIEW, CHARACTER GUEST POST
April 6 – fundinmental – REVIEW
April 6 – Books,Dreams,Life – SPOTLIGHT
April 7 – Reading Is My SuperPower – REVIEW
April 7 – Island Confidential – CHARACTER INTERVIEW. GIVEAWAY
April 8 – Laura’s Interests – REVIEW, GIVEAWAY
April 8 – The Editing Pen – INTERVIEW, GIVEAWAY
April 9 – Jemima Pett, Author – REVIEW, INTERVIEW, GIVEAWAY
April 10 – Rainy Day Reviews – REVIEW, GIVEAWAY
April 10 – 3 Partners in Shopping, Nana, Mommy, & Sissy,Too! – SPOTLIGHT, GIVEAWAY
April 11 – Books, Movies, Reviews. Oh my! – REVIEW
April 11 – deal sharing aunt – INTERVIEW, GIVEAWAY
April 12 – Because I said So, and other adventures in parenting – REVIEW, GIVEAWAY
April 12 – Author Annette Drake’s blog – INTERVIEW
April 13 – fuonlyknew – REVIEW, GIVEAWAY
April 13 – Lisa Ks Book Reviews – REVIEW, CHARACTER GUEST POST
April 14 – Blogger Nicole Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
April 14 – Community Bookstop – REVIEW, GIVEAWAY
April 15 – Texas Book-aholic – REVIEW
April 15 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – SPOTLIGHT, GIVEAWAY
April 16 – Cozy Up With Kathy – REVIEW, CHARACTER INTERVIEW
April 17 – Becky’s Bookcase – REVIEW
April 17 – The Pulp and Mystery Shelf – GUEST POST
SPOKEN FROM THE HEART: LIVING A LIFE OF OBEDIENCE
Just the thought of the word obedience is enough to make me run and take cover. It is a word that I have always had a problem with. When you are growing up, your parents tell you to be obedient or you will get in trouble. When I became a Christian I knew that I needed to obey God, but in my prideful thinking I knew it would be a hard task for me.
I really like how the author has set this book up. Each day is a new journey and encouraging words. It can be a little unsettling to go around the same mountain or struggle and never figure out what you are doing wrong. Once we learn to listen to Him, we can see more clearly what we need to work on. I loved what the author talked about on Day 5. I can remember times of being anxious and desperately waiting for an answer from God. I learned that for me, waiting is very hard. For the author she found that what she thought was an emergency and needed to fix it right away , really wasn't an emergency at all. How many times have we become anxious and acted on something without waiting on God?
I absolutely loved the story about the author's dog. I never thought of having an orphan spirit until I read this chapter. We think that God won't provide for us, and we start to not trust Him. When we realize that we are loved by Him and can trust Him, our thoughts will change. We aren't orphans , but children of God who He loves unconditionally.
The book is filled with scriptures that allow us to put His word on our heart as we step out in obedience. The author is transparent and uses her daily life to show us that we all go through struggles, but when we obey God, he will guide us in the right direction. It isn't easy, but the blessings are worth it. "If God brings us to it, then God will show us how He wants us to fulfill it." I loved when the author said, "He isn't after my perfection; He knows that is impossible. He is after my heart." Oh what wonderful words to hear. He loves us no matter what. I encourage everyone to grab a copy of this book and let God speak to you. Thank you for writing a book that shows readers how to walk in obedience and your compassion for others.
I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.
I really like how the author has set this book up. Each day is a new journey and encouraging words. It can be a little unsettling to go around the same mountain or struggle and never figure out what you are doing wrong. Once we learn to listen to Him, we can see more clearly what we need to work on. I loved what the author talked about on Day 5. I can remember times of being anxious and desperately waiting for an answer from God. I learned that for me, waiting is very hard. For the author she found that what she thought was an emergency and needed to fix it right away , really wasn't an emergency at all. How many times have we become anxious and acted on something without waiting on God?
I absolutely loved the story about the author's dog. I never thought of having an orphan spirit until I read this chapter. We think that God won't provide for us, and we start to not trust Him. When we realize that we are loved by Him and can trust Him, our thoughts will change. We aren't orphans , but children of God who He loves unconditionally.
The book is filled with scriptures that allow us to put His word on our heart as we step out in obedience. The author is transparent and uses her daily life to show us that we all go through struggles, but when we obey God, he will guide us in the right direction. It isn't easy, but the blessings are worth it. "If God brings us to it, then God will show us how He wants us to fulfill it." I loved when the author said, "He isn't after my perfection; He knows that is impossible. He is after my heart." Oh what wonderful words to hear. He loves us no matter what. I encourage everyone to grab a copy of this book and let God speak to you. Thank you for writing a book that shows readers how to walk in obedience and your compassion for others.
I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.
FATAL MISTAKE by SUSAN SLEEMAN
What a fast paced emotionally charged opening this book has. I could not stop reading as the action grew more intense and the threat of evil grew stronger. The author has written a story that reminds us to never let our guard down and always have faith.
Do you remember your childhood friends? They would come over to your house and you might watch movies with them or just talk about silly things. When Tara is asked out on a date by her friend Oren, she turns him down. That rejection will come back to haunt her. There is a serial bomber on the loose and by a chain of events Tara discovers who it is. When she realizes that no one can keep her safe, she runs hoping to disappear from everyone. I loved how Tara was willing to risk her life to keep someone she loves safe. Will Tara be able to help catch the bomber before he strikes again? Can she learn to trust Agent Cal Riggins?
Cal Riggins is one tough character. He has experience as a SEAL and has been assigned the case to catch the Lone Wolf as the bomber has been called. His team called the White Knights are trying to locate Tara to keep her safe. I loved the technology the author described when Cal and his team are trying to locate Tara. The authors knowledge of weapons, sophisticated programs and other tools that the team uses shows how much research went into the story. It made for a very believable action packed story that had my adrenaline at high level. The intense scenes are powerful and loaded with top notch skills of the team.
I loved the growing attraction between Tara and Cal. They slowly learn to trust each other and realize they need to learn to trust God again. I loved how the author brought two characters together during an intense time and took them on a journey of danger, learning to trust and finding their faith. This is one story you won't want to miss if you love action from beginning to end with characters that fight against an enemy that tries to outsmart everyone. I look forward to the next book in this exciting series.
I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.
Do you remember your childhood friends? They would come over to your house and you might watch movies with them or just talk about silly things. When Tara is asked out on a date by her friend Oren, she turns him down. That rejection will come back to haunt her. There is a serial bomber on the loose and by a chain of events Tara discovers who it is. When she realizes that no one can keep her safe, she runs hoping to disappear from everyone. I loved how Tara was willing to risk her life to keep someone she loves safe. Will Tara be able to help catch the bomber before he strikes again? Can she learn to trust Agent Cal Riggins?
Cal Riggins is one tough character. He has experience as a SEAL and has been assigned the case to catch the Lone Wolf as the bomber has been called. His team called the White Knights are trying to locate Tara to keep her safe. I loved the technology the author described when Cal and his team are trying to locate Tara. The authors knowledge of weapons, sophisticated programs and other tools that the team uses shows how much research went into the story. It made for a very believable action packed story that had my adrenaline at high level. The intense scenes are powerful and loaded with top notch skills of the team.
I loved the growing attraction between Tara and Cal. They slowly learn to trust each other and realize they need to learn to trust God again. I loved how the author brought two characters together during an intense time and took them on a journey of danger, learning to trust and finding their faith. This is one story you won't want to miss if you love action from beginning to end with characters that fight against an enemy that tries to outsmart everyone. I look forward to the next book in this exciting series.
I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.
CLAIMING PEACE by JO HUDDLESTON
I really like this series and love revisiting the Callaway family. I love the era that the story is set in. In the 1950s things were so much simpler and it seemed that the entire town knew each other. The characters are wonderful and it felt like coming home again as I read the book. The author has a gift for writing stories that are emotional, faith based and family oriented.
Callie is a very strong woman who loves taking care of her family. I loved how her character was so gracious to others and always willing to pitch in when needed. Everything changes for Callie one day when she gets a devastating diagnosis from her doctor. Will this cause Callie to get discouraged? Can she continue to have faith and trust God? Her husband Arthur is one of my favorite characters. He is very caring, loves his family and is a man who Is willing to sacrifice anything to make his wife comfortable during her illness. I thought he was selfless and even when he was weary he continued on. There were several times when he was emotionally drained and I loved how he reached out to God and friends for strength.
I have to mention EmmaJean who was such a joy to get to know. She lives with her brother and sister-in-law and has someone special in her life. Will she find love and settle down? I loved her attitude and willingness to step up and help out Callie and her family. Throughout the book the author shows how an illness can change the calm everyday life to an emotionally draining ordeal.
As Callie's illness starts to overtake her body will she find peace ? Can her family continue to care for her and be strong during this hard time? Callie's emotional strength is so well written and I found myself crying as the book showed how important family is. I won't give anything else away but be prepared for a journey of love, unconditional love, and faith that brings everyone together. The book reminds us that we don't have to be alone during hard times. Thank you for a wonderful story that will encourage readers to reach out to each other in times of need.
"We only have the abilities God gave us, and we make mistakes."
I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network. The review is my own opinion.
Callie is a very strong woman who loves taking care of her family. I loved how her character was so gracious to others and always willing to pitch in when needed. Everything changes for Callie one day when she gets a devastating diagnosis from her doctor. Will this cause Callie to get discouraged? Can she continue to have faith and trust God? Her husband Arthur is one of my favorite characters. He is very caring, loves his family and is a man who Is willing to sacrifice anything to make his wife comfortable during her illness. I thought he was selfless and even when he was weary he continued on. There were several times when he was emotionally drained and I loved how he reached out to God and friends for strength.
I have to mention EmmaJean who was such a joy to get to know. She lives with her brother and sister-in-law and has someone special in her life. Will she find love and settle down? I loved her attitude and willingness to step up and help out Callie and her family. Throughout the book the author shows how an illness can change the calm everyday life to an emotionally draining ordeal.
As Callie's illness starts to overtake her body will she find peace ? Can her family continue to care for her and be strong during this hard time? Callie's emotional strength is so well written and I found myself crying as the book showed how important family is. I won't give anything else away but be prepared for a journey of love, unconditional love, and faith that brings everyone together. The book reminds us that we don't have to be alone during hard times. Thank you for a wonderful story that will encourage readers to reach out to each other in times of need.
"We only have the abilities God gave us, and we make mistakes."
I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network. The review is my own opinion.
COSMIC INITIATIVE by JACK R. TAYLOR
This is certainly a very thought provoking book which I enjoyed studying. I wasn't quite sure what the book was about but as I delved in I found myself bring quite intrigued by the author. It is so true when he said we can be a Christian for a long time "but miss the true center of one's faith." I remember very clearly always hearing the scripture,"Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness , and all these things will be provided for you. "
( Matthew 6:33) I always wondered what things were to be provided to us? But I don't think I remember that scripture really being explained to me. The author lays it out in easy to understand terminology by saying, "The Kingdom of God is not only at the center of reality; it is the center of reality." So if it is the center of everything it only makes sense for us to " make the Kingdom of God the center of our lives and faith."
I really love the depth the author goes into to explain the Kingdom and how important it is for us to understand the keys to the Kingdom which represents power. We have been granted those keys when we gave ourselves to Him. Now we can use those keys to release power into our situations. One of the things I loved that the author spoke about was the key of confidence. No matter what our situation may be, we have been given the key of confidence to get through it. He explains many of the different keys of the Kingdom that encouraged me and gave me a sense of strength. The book is really an eye opener for me and I enjoyed reading the book. It is one I will go back and reread over and over again. Thank you for a book that goes deeper into the word and helps readers understand the Kingdom of God and how important it is to each of us.
I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network. The review is my own opinion.
( Matthew 6:33) I always wondered what things were to be provided to us? But I don't think I remember that scripture really being explained to me. The author lays it out in easy to understand terminology by saying, "The Kingdom of God is not only at the center of reality; it is the center of reality." So if it is the center of everything it only makes sense for us to " make the Kingdom of God the center of our lives and faith."
I really love the depth the author goes into to explain the Kingdom and how important it is for us to understand the keys to the Kingdom which represents power. We have been granted those keys when we gave ourselves to Him. Now we can use those keys to release power into our situations. One of the things I loved that the author spoke about was the key of confidence. No matter what our situation may be, we have been given the key of confidence to get through it. He explains many of the different keys of the Kingdom that encouraged me and gave me a sense of strength. The book is really an eye opener for me and I enjoyed reading the book. It is one I will go back and reread over and over again. Thank you for a book that goes deeper into the word and helps readers understand the Kingdom of God and how important it is to each of us.
I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network. The review is my own opinion.
THE BELOVED Hope CHEST by AMY CLIPSTON
What a beautiful ending to an emotional series. This one really tugged at my heart and I believe it is the authors best book to date. She wrote with such compassion as the characters experienced pain, disappointment grief and loss of trust. When the hope chest is opened we are swept back to a time when Mattie was on top of the world. She slowly began to tell her story that had long been a secret . As the items from her hope chest are revealed her children begin to hear about their mom's past. Is Mattie ready to relive the past? Is the pain still fresh as she begins to share her memories?
Mattie was a woman in love . She had found the man she wanted to spend the rest of her life with. But in one instant everything changes for Mattie. She begins to realize her husband has been gone along time. He went to the bank but that was hours ago. A knock on her door will send her into despair and grief. How will she deal with the sudden death of her husband ? I loved how the author showed readers that Amish are just as vulnerable as anyone else when we go to public places. Mattie is told that her husband died a hero but that doesn't make her pain any easier. What will she do now that she is alone and pregnant?
I have to say that Leroy was my favorite character. He is a very good , honest and caring man. He has known Maddie since they were kids. Leroy has always loved Maddie but stepped aside when her heart fell for another. He hates to see her in pain and decides to step in and marry her. He wants to do everything he can to help Mattie and the baby she is carrying. Will they be able to handle anymore tragedies? Will Mattie turn to Leroy for support? What a wonderful man Leroy is. He reminded me of my husband so much. We had a lot of problems through out early married life. My husband continued to stand by me and pray for me even when I hurt him emotionally. He showed me what unconditional love was and helped me find my way back to God.
This story is about forgiving, trusting God and letting go of the past. I loved how the author used a basket from one of the earlier books in the series. It will play a pivotal role in Mattie and Leroy's relationship. Throughout the book we see how hard it is for Mattie to let anyone in as she griefs . Do we push people away when we are hurting? Do we forget that God is there waiting to comfort us? One of the things I loved the most about this book was how Leroy would not give up. He knew that God had chosen Mattie to be His wife and he held on to that promise. I encourage you to grab some tissues as you read this emotional story of grief and unconditional love.
I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.
Mattie was a woman in love . She had found the man she wanted to spend the rest of her life with. But in one instant everything changes for Mattie. She begins to realize her husband has been gone along time. He went to the bank but that was hours ago. A knock on her door will send her into despair and grief. How will she deal with the sudden death of her husband ? I loved how the author showed readers that Amish are just as vulnerable as anyone else when we go to public places. Mattie is told that her husband died a hero but that doesn't make her pain any easier. What will she do now that she is alone and pregnant?
I have to say that Leroy was my favorite character. He is a very good , honest and caring man. He has known Maddie since they were kids. Leroy has always loved Maddie but stepped aside when her heart fell for another. He hates to see her in pain and decides to step in and marry her. He wants to do everything he can to help Mattie and the baby she is carrying. Will they be able to handle anymore tragedies? Will Mattie turn to Leroy for support? What a wonderful man Leroy is. He reminded me of my husband so much. We had a lot of problems through out early married life. My husband continued to stand by me and pray for me even when I hurt him emotionally. He showed me what unconditional love was and helped me find my way back to God.
This story is about forgiving, trusting God and letting go of the past. I loved how the author used a basket from one of the earlier books in the series. It will play a pivotal role in Mattie and Leroy's relationship. Throughout the book we see how hard it is for Mattie to let anyone in as she griefs . Do we push people away when we are hurting? Do we forget that God is there waiting to comfort us? One of the things I loved the most about this book was how Leroy would not give up. He knew that God had chosen Mattie to be His wife and he held on to that promise. I encourage you to grab some tissues as you read this emotional story of grief and unconditional love.
I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.
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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