Christmas at Grey Sage By Phyllis Nichols

Nestled in the snow-covered Sangre de Cristo Mountains near Santa Fe, the Grey Sage Inn looks like the perfect place for weary travelers to escape the craziness of the Christmas season. There's plenty to see in historic Santa Fe during the day, and the inn's owners, Maude and Silas Thornhill, are happy to spend their evenings hosting this year's guests from across the country.

But an unusual snowstorm throws a wrench in the festive mood. The sprawling inn becomes close quarters as stranded guests discover this Christmas won't be the relaxed vacation they expected. Tension and fear mount as the storm worsens, and Silas, a retired doctor, is called away in the middle of the night to care for a neighbor. The snow and stress unlocks tongues--and in the unexpected conversation that follows, secrets and pasts are revealed, and hearts are healed.

In the midst of snowdrifts and fireside conversations, of tales of days gone by, the warmth of Christmas brings a renewed hope as these trapped strangers become friends--proof again that the joy, hope, peace, and love of Christmas can be experienced no matter where you are.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Grey-Phyllis-Clark-Nichols/dp/1683701283/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1511564260&sr=1-1&keywords=Christmas+at+Grey+Sage

Phyllis Clark Nichols believes everyone could use a little more hope and light. Her character-driven Southern fiction explores profound human questions from within the simple lives of small town communities you just know you’ve visited before. With a love for nature, art, music, faith and ordinary people, she tells redemptive tales of loss and recovery, estrangement and connection, longing and fulfillment, often through surprisingly serendipitous events.

Phyllis was raised in the deep shade of magnolia trees in Cairo, Georgia. Now she lives in the Texas Hill Country with her portrait-artist husband, where red birds and axis deer are her ever-ravenous neighbors. She is an English major, , concert artist and co-founder of a national cable network for people with disabilities. For over a decade she has worked in the orphanages of Guatemala and currently serves on several non-profit boards where she works with others who are equally passionate about bringing hope and light to those who need it most.

Phyllis is the author of THE CHRISTMAS PORTRAIT and CHRISTMAS AT GREY SAGE.

My Thoughts...

Looking for a Christmas book to get in the mood for the season? You may like  Christmas at Grey Sage. It's  one that can be read in one sitting is a small book full of joy, love, peace and hope. You  will love sitting by the fire and  with a cup of hot cocoa and devouring this little gem.
I would love to be snowed in at a nice bed and breakfast with a group of different people.
This was a unique Christmas story not one that is a retold story.
I gave this book 4 stars. I hope that you will check it out the Christmas season.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Interview with Stephen Mizell Author of The Long Walk back

Failure is something we have all experienced. We have also watched the public failures of people that resulted in many lives being affected. It is painful to watch someone's life as their career, family, and finances go to shambles because of their poor choices. It is even more painful to experience all that personally.
There are consequences to every choice we make. Failure can be devastating. The losses seem almost impossible to overcome. But nothing could be further from the truth. There is a path back to success and fulfillment. The question is, will we take it?

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Long-Walk-Back-Recover-Failure/dp/151278740X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1511579883&sr=8-1&keywords=the+long+walk+back

Stephen Mizell is the Lead Pastor at Open Door Church. Stephen and his wife Barbara, along with their children, started attending Open Door on Easter Sunday 2005. In January of 2008 he came on staff and became the Lead Pastor in October, 2010. Stephen believes he has been specifically called to impact northeastern North Carolina with life-giving congregations in rural communities.

Stephen is a gifted communicator who is committed to sharing practical truths from God’s Word. He is committed to raising up leaders both locally and around the world. As a part of John Maxwell’s organizations EQUIP and the John Maxwell Team, Stephen has been able to teach leadership principles in many countries around the world. He is also an entrepreneur and has owned several businesses over the last 20 years.

Stephen and Barbara reside in Edenton, NC. They have four children and three grandchildren. They enjoy traveling the world and serving people wherever they go. You can follow Stephen’s thoughts on ministry, life and leadership at www.StephenMizell.com. His brand new book about his personal story of redemption entitled “The Long Walk Back” just released and is available here on Amazon.


Welcome Stephen...

1) What sparked your decision to journey down the path of writing The Long Walk Back?

I had been able to help some other people one on one and knew this would be a way that I could help people that I would never have the opportunity to sit down with one on one. I have a real desire to help others who are struggling with failure and also to help people avoid some of the pain I experienced.

 

 

2) Share with us one tip on how to get out of the mess we may have found ourselves in.

The most basic decision is to want something different than what you have. The next needed decision is to surround yourself with the right people

 

 

3)  Can everyone recover from failure?

The simple answer is yes, but the recovery doesn't always mean restoration. Your recovered life may look nothing like your previous place.

 

 

4) What is your favorite Bible verse?

This one is tough. Being a pastor, there are a lot of verses I identify with. As I have signed this book, I have used Ruth 4:14 but I was not left without a redeemer

 

 

5)  Tell us a little bit about your family.

I grew up in a pastors home, so the life I have is not completely foreign to me. My wife Barbara and I have been married for 12 years and we have 4 children and 3 grandchildren. All of our children live within an hour of us.

 

 6) Will The Long Way Back by your only self help  book or will others follow it? If so can you share a little bit about what's next.

I am currently working on a book on parenting. Helping families is a real passion for me. It is where I have found my greatest struggles and I want to share the lessons I have learned.

 

 7) Pastor, what is your favorite comfort food?

 Fried chicken or ice cream

 8) If you could have one wish what would it be?

That I leave a legacy that makes an impact long after I am gone

 

 9) Where can my readers keep up with you?

Blog: www.stephenmizell.com

Twitter: @stephenmizell

Facebook: @StephenMizellOnline

 

In the Middle of the Mess By Shelia Walsh

How do you turn your struggles into strengths? Beloved Bible teacher Sheila Walsh teaches readers how the daily spiritual practices of confession, meditation on God’s Word, and prayer result in fresh freedom in Christ.
In her long-awaited new book, Sheila Walsh equips women with a practical method for connecting with God’s strength in the midst of struggle. From daily frustrations that can feel like overwhelming obstacles to hard challenges that turn into rock-bottom crises, women will find the means to equip themselves for standing strong with God. Using the spiritual applications of confession, prayer, and meditation on Scripture to form a daily connection to Jesus, women will learn how to experience new joy as a child of God who is fully known, fully loved, and fully accepted.
In In the Middle of the Mess, Walsh reveals the hardened defenses that kept her from allowing God into her deepest hurts and shares how entering into a safe place with God and practicing this daily connection with him have saved her from the devil’s prowling attacks. Though we will never be completely “fixed” on earth, we are continually held by Jesus, whatever our circumstances.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Middle-Mess-Strength-Beautiful-Broken/dp/1400204917/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1511561402&sr=8-1&keywords=in+the+middle+of+the+mess

 

Sheila Walsh is an author, speaker and Bible teacher who has sold over 4 million books. Her heart is to show what happens when your real life meets the Word of God. She is the author of the #1 best-selling line of Christian books for little girls, "Gigi, God's Little Princess." Sheila is the creator of Children of Faith and the Gnoo Zoo, a ministry to children that communicates God's love for them. She is the author of several books for women including "Honestly," "Gifts for Your Soul," "Living Fearlessly," and "The Best Devotions of Sheila Walsh", "The Shelter of God's Promises" and her latest book, "God Loves Broken People and those who pretend they're not." As an accomplished musician, Sheila has recently released the CD "Beauty From Ashes." Sheila, her husband, Barry and their son, Christian live in Dallas, Texas.

My Thoughts...

Life changing book, I don't know one person that has the perfect life. We have all lived in the real world, so we have dealt with a lot.
Walsh is a voice in the Christian world that many can relate to and she has lived it and she wants to share how she got through it. So she wants to help others.
Walsh talks about  the miracles in the middle of our mess. She shares her own personal story with you, it's one you don't want to miss.
This is a very  straight forward book and it's a life saver for all us women that don't have it all together.
I gave this book 5 stars and I HIGHLY recommend it.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Witness Protection By Carol Kinsey

“There is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed.” Ty Westgate is an ex-lawyer living under witness protection. Brooke Dunbar is a young nurse, struggling to find hope and healing from her past. After four years in hiding, Ty puts his faith in Christ and realizes his moral duty to tell his unsaved parents about Jesus. While this step of faith holds eternal significance for Ty’s parents, it also puts Ty’s life in jeopardy. Together, in this fast paced novel, Ty and Brooke work to unravel the truth behind Ty’s adversaries. Will Ty’s decision to share his faith cost him his life? Will Brooke learn to trust the One Who can heal her past? The price of freedom may be too high.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Witness-Protection-Carol-Kinsey/dp/1546907726/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1511557095&sr=8-1&keywords=witness+protection+by+carol+Kinsey

Carol Kinsey is the author of Witness Protection, available September 2017, Greater Love, Until Proven Innocent, and Under the Shadow of a Steeple. Along with her three Christian fiction novels, Carol has authored a writing curriculum, Creative Writing Through Literature, which launched in 2016. She is also a contributing author for Relationships Under Construction, and several other publications. Carol partners with authors, Amy C. Blake and Colleen Scott, speaking on developing the writer in yourself and your child. Carol, her husband, and their daughters, live on a farm in rural Ohio. She and her husband have been involved in youth ministry for over twenty years and currently serve at a small country church, which inspired her novel, Under the Shadow of a Steeple. Carol has a passion for writing exciting fiction that uplifts, encourages, and gives glory to God.

My Thoughts...

Suspense and romance in one book you say? Oh yes this book has them both.
This is not a slow read it's a fast paced read, one that will take you on an adventure until the very end.
Kinsey can write so that you think you are living in the very pages you are reading.
I enjoyed this book from the first page. You have to pick up copy of this must read.
I gave this book 4 stars, I recommend it.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

The Gift of Christmas Past By Cindy and Erin Woodsmall

Arson wasn't the only fire that ignited between them. 
Promises shattered.
Lies spoken.
She was arrested.
He returned to the safety of his wealthy parents.

Almost ten years later, Hadley and Monroe are both specialists in the field of speech therapy. They meet again . . . thrown together to help a four-year-old-girl rendered mute after being rescued from a fire. 



Years of secrets and anger beg to be set free as Hadley and Monroe try to push aside past hurts and find common ground in order to help the traumatized child and her family.



Can the love of Christmas past drift into the present, bringing healing and hope for all?

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Gift-Christmas-Past-Southern-Romance/dp/0998753807/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1511406962&sr=1-1&keywords=the+gift+of+christmas+past+cindy+woodsmall

Cindy Woodsmall is a New York Times, CBA, ECPA, and USA Today best-selling author who has written seventeen (and counting!) works of fiction and one of nonfiction. She and her dearest Old Order Amish friend, Miriam Flaud, coauthored the nonfiction, Plain Wisdom: An Invitation into an Amish Home and the Hearts of Two Women. Cindy has been featured on ABC Nightline and on the front page of the Wall Street Journal,and has worked with National Geographic on a documentary concerning Amish life. In June of 2013, the Wall Street Journal listed Cindy as the one of the top three most popular authors of Amish fiction.

She's won Fiction Book of the Year, Reviewer's Choice Awards, Inspirational Reader's Choice Contest, as well as one of Crossings' Best Books of the Year. She's been a finalist for the prestigious Christy, Rita, and Carol Awards, Christian Book of the Year, and Christian Retailers Choice Awards.

Her real-life connections with Amish Mennonite and Old Order Amish families enrich her novels with authenticity. Though she didn't realize it at the time, seeds were sown years ago that began preparing Cindy to write these books. At the age of ten, while living in the dairy country of Maryland, she became best friends with Luann, a Plain Mennonite girl. Luann, like all the females in her family, wore the prayer Kapp and cape dresses. Her parents didn't allow television or radios, and many other modern conveniences were frowned upon. During the numerous times Luann came to Cindy's house to spend the night, her rules came with her and the two were careful to obey them--afraid that if they didn't, the adults would end their friendship. Although the rules were much easier to keep when they spent the night at Luann's because her family didn't own any of the forbidden items, both sets of parents were uncomfortable with the relationship and a small infraction of any kind would have been enough reason for the parents to end the relationship. While navigating around the adults' disapproval and the obstacles in each other's lifestyle, the two girls bonded in true friendship that lasted into their teen years, until Cindy's family moved to another region of the US.

As an adult, Cindy became friends with a wonderful Old Order Amish family who opened their home to her. Although the two women, Miriam and Cindy, live seven hundred miles apart geographically, and a century apart by customs, when they come together they never lack for commonality, laughter, and dreams of what only God can accomplish through His children. Over the years Cindy has continued to make wonderful friendships with those inside the Amish and Mennonite communities--from the most conservative ones to the most liberal.

Cindy and her husband reside near the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains in their now empty nest.

If you'd like more information or to contact her, you can go to her website: http://www.cindywoodsmall.com or Facebook https://www.facebook.com/authorcindywoodsmall

My Thoughts...

If you pick up this book based on the authors name alone you would be expecting an Amish book. But oh no its a contemporary Southern  Romance and it was Woodsmall's best book yet.
It was clean and very well written and the editing was very good. I will say that I have read everyone of Woodsmall's Amish books and they were good. But this one was very good and I hope that she continues  writing contemporary romances.
You have to read this book and find out if Monroe stands up to his parents and see if he and Hadley can find their way back to where they once were! You are going to be surprised with this book.
I gave this book 4.5 stars. I recommend it.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

The Engagement Plot By Krista Phillips

Can Hanna and Will Find True Love amid the Bright Lights of Reality TV?
Perfect for the fans of The Bachelor and The Bachelorette!

Six months ago, William stole Hanna’s heart and shattered it in front of millions of people on a reality TV dating show. And now the big-wig CEO is back on Hanna’s home turf in Minnesota and wants her to forgive him? Fat chance of that. But life is swirling around faster than snow in a blizzard, and despite her objections, teaming up with William seems like the only option to rescue her reputation.
          
William has never regretted anything more than the day he gave that ill-fated interview for the reality show, The Price of Love. But while he can’t change the past, he’s determined to fix the future. He just needs to convince Hanna to forgive him—and pretend to be engaged with him. Simple, right?

When the media erupts with even worse accusations, teaming up and pretending to be engaged seems to be the only way to salvage their reputations.  Despite the media frenzy that swirls around them, an attraction neither of them can fight off begins to surface. Could this love run deeper than a scandal, or will old wounds tear them apart once and for all?  When all seems lost, it’s only with help from above that Hanna and Will may find their happily-ever-after.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Engagement-Plot-Krista-Phillips/dp/1683223160/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1511404348&sr=8-1&keywords=the+engagement+plot+by+krista+Phillips

Krista Phillips writes inspirational romantic comedy. She believes a sprinkle of laughter (and a wee bit of chocolate) makes everything a little better! She blogs regularly about life as a wife, mother, follower of Jesus, and mother of a child with a rare congenital heart defect at www.kristaphillips.com.

My Thoughts...

Do you enjoy watching The Bachelor and The Bachelorette? Well this is something like that sort of. It is a book for reality TV fans. They are sure to fall in love with this book.
It was a good romantic comedy, It's a feel good read. The first book that I have read by Phillips but not my last. The story line was very well thought out, and different.
I loved Hanna and rooted for her until the very end. You may like the outcome. Read it all the way to the end!
This is a 4 star read. I recommend this book to reality TV fans. And Romance fans.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Adored: 365 Devotions for Young Women By Lindsay Franklin GIVEAWAY!

In an ever-changing world, we can be certain of one thing: we are beloved by God. Adored: 365 Devotions for Young Women tackles tough topics girls face, from bullying and social media to friendships and dating, all the while showing readers how infinitely precious they are in God’s sight.
Each day features an easy-to-read, relevant devotion paired with a scripture verse and journaling space to help readers reflect on the day’s message. With honest, poignant, and sometimes humorous text, every page will speak to the pressures and changes girls face, giving them real-world applications to find God in their hearts and in their lives. Perfect for everyday use, Adored will resonate with girls searching for truth and guidance. Gift givers will love this highly designed book featuring a beautiful, foiled cover, and two-color interior pages.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Adored-365-Devotions-Young-Women/dp/0310762790/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1510509148&sr=1-1-spons&keywords=adored+365+devotions+for+young+women&psc=1

Lindsay A. Franklin is an award-winning author, freelance editor, and homeschooling mom of three. She would wear pajama pants all the time if it were socially acceptable. She spends a lot of time in made-up worlds, and she's passionate about sparking imagination through stories of infinite possibility. Her debut fantasy novel, The Story Peddler, releases in 2018. When she's not exploring the fantastical, she's exploring the Bible and encouraging young women through her devotional books.

Lindsay lives in her native San Diego with her husband (master of the dad joke), their awesomely nerdy kids, two thunder pillows (AKA cats), and a stuffed wombat with his own Instagram following (@therealwombatman). You can find Lindsay on social media, too, if Wombatman hasn't hijacked all her accounts. She's @LinzyAFranklin on Instagram and Twitter, and she Facebooks at www.facebook.com/LindsayAFranklin.


My Thoughts...

This eye catching devotional for Young women is sure to catch your eye the cover is gorgeous the page boarder is so pretty.
The daily devotions have a place on each page to write your thoughts or prayers or something great that happened that day.
It is a very welcoming book.
There is daily scripture and the devotions are very easy to read and understand.
This would make a great Christmas gift for the young women in your life.
I gave the devotional 5 stars. I highly recommend it.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

 This GIVEAWAY is open to US residents only.

Reta Watkins That Christmas Feeling CD

 

 

Worship leader, recording artist and vocal stylist Reta Watkins is thrilled to announce the release date of her debut solo album, That Christmas Feeling. The project is slated to impact retail on Friday, November 17, 2017, from Suite 28 Records through Naxos of America, Inc., the nation's leading independent classical music distributor.

 

"I've waited my whole life to do this record," says Reta. "My father passed away 10 years ago. I loved my dad so much, and one of my fondest memories was of us singing Christmas carols together. Dad was an outstanding tenor who grew up in the heyday of the big band/jazz era. We would sit together, listening to and singing along with the greats--Nat King Cole, Benny Goodman, Glenn Miller, Bing Crosby. In particular, he loved all things Christmas, and I loved what he loved, so I fell in love with the Christmas carols. I would listen to Christmas music all year long if I could."

 

The gifted vocalist, who cut her musical teeth singing with her 'musicianary' family band, and later with the contemporary Christian band, Pilgrim's Progress, breaks new ground with her debut solo project, That Christmas Feeling. On the new project, Reta revisits the rich repertoire of timeless holiday standards that have become the Christmas soundtrack for generations of Americans. The 10 lushly orchestrated tracks on the album were produced by Scott Williamson (Point of Grace, Lincoln Brewster) and showcase Reta's compelling vocal stylings. Tracks include the best of the big band era, along with a few more recent additions to the Christmas music lexicon.

 

The road to making That Christmas Feeling ran from Reta's suburban Philadelphia home, straight to Nashville, where she enlisted the considerable talents of long-time friend and producer, Scott Williamson, who had been itching to produce a big band jazz record. Williamson enlisted the aid of his father, celebrated Dove Award winning composer/arranger Dave Williamson. When Dave unfortunately fell ill and passed away before the album could be completed, Williamson called on the talents of Jason Webb (Lauren Daigle, Amy Grant, Lee Brice, Richard Marx) to step in and complete the arrangements.

 

A highlight of the project is the album's first radio single, a stunning, big band version of the beloved contemporary classic, "Mary Did You Know." While retaining the song's reverential awe, Reta injects a smoldering vitality that carries the tune from the familiar into uncharted territory. Reta wraps her mellifluous vocals around traditional big band holiday favorites like "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year," and the delightfully jazzy "Sleigh Ride." Her emotion-laden take on the slightly melancholy, "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" will have you raising a cup of wassail to absent friends and loved ones...and maybe wiping away a tear. Reta jazzes up the Paul McCartney fave, "Wonderful Christmastime," pulls back for a swaying, flirty version of the Irving Berlin classic, "I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm," then evokes the smooth, silky delivery of Nat King Cole on "The Christmas Song."

 

Producer Williamson pulled a pair of contemporary favorites from the songwriting team of Paul Marino and Jeremy Johnson to complement the album's classic carols--the worshipful and peace-evoking piano ballad, "Behold Emmanuel," and the heartbreaking jazz number, "Christmas in Heaven." Of course, no Christmas album is truly complete without the worldwide best-selling single of all time, "White Christmas."

 

"Growing up in the northeast, I experienced many white Christmases. That's what I think of when I think of Christmas music--big band orchestration, classic holiday songs, fresh arrangements. With the joys and family traditions of the season, That Christmas Feeling is the soundtrack for that Christmas feeling that has always remained deep in my heart. I know Dad would be proud."

To learn more about Watson and That Christmas Feeling, visit retawatkins.com.

 

My Thoughts...

 

If you are a Jazz fan then this CD is a must for your  Christmas CD collection.

You will enjoy the playlist and will find most songs familiar. Reta has a great voice and she can really belt the songs out.

This would make a good addition to you collection.

Or, Check this out for that music lover in your life, makes a good Christmas gift or hostess gift.

 

World View By Marvin Olasky

What would our common life be like if Christians were known not only for speaking truth, but also for demonstrating mercy? Marvin Olasky, best-selling author and editor in chief of World Magazine describes this kind of salty Christianity in a far-ranging collection of columns from World. As Dr. Olasky comments on world events and also shares his personal interactions, readers will be encouraged to bring both grace and truth to every encounter. While deeply committed to standing for biblical truth in the public square, Olasky is just as interested in Christians living out the biblical virtues of humility, kindness, and mercy in all of life. His call for biblical values to include both truth and grace, makes his voice stand out in a world that often falsely divides those goals and settles for a poor imitation of the robust Christianity he calls readers to. Curated collection of World columns that offer the best of Marvin Olasky. Sets forth a much needed vision for how Christians can speak truth and demonstrate mercy at the same time. A wonderful collection that all readers of World Magazine will want to have for their own library and an extra copy to share with a friend.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/World-View-Seeking-Grace-Common/dp/1945270837/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1511140972&sr=8-1&keywords=world+view+by+marvin+olasky

Editor-in-chief of WORLD. Holder, Patrick Henry College chair in journalism and public policy. Dean, World Journalism Institute. Senior Fellow, Acton Institute.

Love: Susan and I have been married for 35 years. Four terrific sons and one wonderful daughter-in-law: Peter and Catherine, David, Daniel, and Benjamin

Formal education: B.A. from Yale University in 1971, Ph.D. in American Culture from the University of Michigan in 1976. Real education: Grew up in Judaism, became an atheist and a communist, and then (purely through God's grace) a Christian in 1976.

Other activities over the years: foster parent, Pony League assistant coach, PTA president, board chairman of a crisis pregnancy center and a Christian school, elder in the Presbyterian Church in America. Credited (or discredited) with developing the ideas of compassionate conservatism and biblical objectivity.

My Thoughts...

This is not so much a book, it's compositions of articles  put in book form. Scripture is mixed in with the articles and biblical truths.
This is articles about the current happening in the world so to dd the biblical ad scripture this makes for a book that Christians will want to check out.
It's not a book that you sit down in read in one sitting, its more one you read a few articles each day.
It was interesting but it was not a book I would normally pick up to read.
I gave this book 3.5 stars.  If you are into politics and world views this might be one you would like to read.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Staying Stylish By Candace Cameron Bure GIVEAWAY!

Candace Cameron Bure, best known as D.J. Tanner from Full House and Fuller House and a New York Times bestselling author, whose faith and wit have delighted audiences for decades, lets you in on her best-kept secrets for Staying Stylish. This gorgeous manual for beauty, style, health, and spiritual wellness will bring all you need to live your most stylish life.

As an actress, producer, New York Times bestselling author, and inspirational speaker, Candace Cameron Bure has spent her entire life in the spotlight, and she is well aware of the pressures women face. Throughout her career, Candace has balanced her faith, family, and passion for work and found her spot as a role model to women of all ages—and as a style icon.
In her brand-new book Staying Stylish, Candace invites you behind the scenes of her day-to-day life and shares more than 100 tips and tricks for looking and feeling your best—both inside and out. Nurture your body, style, and soul as you read through this beautiful book full of photos, insider secrets, and exciting ideas to revamp your own life into its best possible version. She offers her insight into balance, spiritual growth, and looking great while doing it all.
Staying Stylish topics will include personal style, fresh hair and makeup for any age, a well-balanced diet and fitness regime, and a well-nourished spirit.


Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Staying-Stylish-Cultivating-Confident-Attitude/dp/0310088054/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1510881053&sr=8-1&keywords=staying+stylish+candace+cameron+bure

Candace Cameron Bure first became known to millions as a co-star on the hit ABC television series Full House. Today, like her brother Kirk Cameron (Growing Pains, Fireproof), she is the rare Hollywood actor who is outspoken about her Christian faith and how it helps overcome certain obstacles, like her struggle with food addiction.

Bure's healthy lifestyle has been featured in US Weekly and People magazines as well as national talk shows including The View and NBC's Today. In Reshaping It All, she continues the story, inspiring women to embrace a healthier lifestyle by moving faith to the forefront, making wise choices, and finding their worth in the eyes of God. Candace shares a candid account of her struggle with food and ultimately her healthy outlook on weight despite the toothpick-thin expectations of Hollywood.

Find her website at http://www.candacecameronbure.net


My Thoughts...

So excited to share Candace's new book with you all.
This book was done with so much class and is chock full of so many tips. I learned a lot of great tips and tricks one that has stuck out to me is the one where she tells those of us that don't like to drink water how to improve it by adding essential oils to the water. I plan to do this.
I love that she has a section in this book called Nourishing Your Spirit. She tells us that we are going to spend eternity somewhere and she  wants to spend it with Jesus Christ. She is not shy in sharing that God is the most important part of her life.
Candace is one of very few people in Hollywood that shares he love for Jesus every chance that she gets.
She talks about Prayer, writing in a journal, and my absolute favorite reading. She shares a list of her favorite Non-fiction and fiction books. Oh what lists they are. I happen to agree with her on a few on them. 
She says she makes sure that she invests time with God. 
I feel like this is book that all of us ladies need to spend time in and go back to again and again.
This is a 5 star two times book. I HIGHLY recommend it.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

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Picturing Christmas By Jason F. Wright

Fresh out of college and about to start her dream job as a photographer in New York, Aubrey is sure her life is picture perfect. From the moment she sets foot in the city, though, everything starts to crumble around her. With family problems back home, a complicated relationship, and an unforgiving city all around her, this Christmas, all Aubrey really wants is to find the real meaning of the holiday.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Picturing-Christmas-Jason-F-Wright/dp/1462121527/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1510877795&sr=8-1&keywords=picturing+Christmas

Jason Wright is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author.

Jason is also regular columnist for Fox News, TheBlaze, The Deseret News and the Northern Virginia Daily. Articles by Jason have appeared in over other 50 newspapers and magazines across the United States including The Washington Times, The Chicago Tribune, and Forbes.

He is the author of The James Miracle (2004); Christmas Jars (2005); The Wednesday Letters (2007); Recovering Charles (2008), Christmas Jars Reunion (2009); Penny's Christmas Jar Miracle (2009); The Cross Gardener (2010); The Seventeen Second Miracle (2010); The Wedding Letters (2011); The 13th Day of Christmas (2012); Picturing Christmas (2013); The James Miracle: 10th Anniversary Edition (2014); Christmas Jars Journey (2015); and, A Letter to Mary (2016) and the upcoming children's novel, The Lost Carnival (2017).

Jason is also a popular speaker who speaks on faith, the joy of service, the Christmas Jars movement, the lost art of letter writing and many other topics. He has been seen on CNN, FoxNews, C-SPAN, and on local television affiliates around the country.

Jason is from Charlottesville, Virginia, but has also lived in Germany, Illinois, Brazil, Oregon and Utah. In 2007, while researching Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley for his novel The Wednesday Letters, Jason fell so in love with the area that he moved his family westward from northern Virginia to the Valley.

Jason is married to Kodi Erekson Wright. They have two girls, two boys and a 110-pound Goldendoodle named Pilgrim who thinks he's a lapdog.                


My Thoughts...

I loved this Christmas book. It is not about a perfect family or people that have the prefect life. It's a book about real life and how not everything is perfect.
I was not so sure about Aubrey's parents and I struggled with her relationship with them. But I can't wait for you to read this book and find out if Aubrey finds the true meaning of Christmas.
I true Wright fashion as with all of his books, in my opinion this book was way to short. I wanted to stay in New York a little while longer.
This was a 5 star book for me a side from the fact it was way to short.
I HIGHLY recommend it.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Renegades By Thomas Locke

Twins Sean and Dillon are using their transit abilities for good--but not everyone sees it that way. Arrested and imprisoned by a clandestine group within the highest reaches of the Human Assembly, Sean and Dillon are forced to choose sides between those who wish to serve and those who seek to rule.

At the same time within a distant outpost system, a young soldier is coming into his own. Logan has known since childhood that he possessed a special ability--a distinct form of transiting called ghost-walking. Though ghost-walking has been outlawed for centuries, Logan is secretly drawing together a crew for a risky quest.

The fates of these three young men will lead them, along with the entire Assembly, to the brink of destruction in this inventive tale of adventure, honor, and the things worth fighting for.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Renegades-Recruits-Thomas-Locke/dp/0800727908/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1510506346&sr=1-1&keywords=renegades+thomas+locke

 

Thomas Locke is a pseudonym for Davis Bunn, an award-winning novelist with worldwide sales of seven million copies in 22 languages. Davis divides his time between Oxford and Florida and holds a lifelong passion for speculative stories. He is the author of Recruits, as well as Emissary and Merchant of Alyss in the Legends of the Realm series and Fault Lines, Trial Run, and Flash Point in the Fault Lines series. Learn more at www.tlocke.com

My Thoughts...

Book two in the Recruits series.
This is no my usual type of book I like to read, but for something a little different to change this up a little bit I read it.
I was not really thrilled with it although my husband enjoyed it.
I suffered through it an I have to say although it is different is was an okay read once I put my mind to reading it.
I gave this book 3.5 stars. Give it a try if you are in a reading rut, you might like it.
 The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Vanishing Point By Lisa Harris

During Garrett Addison's first week on the job as a criminal investigator for the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, his team is called out to a murder scene of a young girl. She's the third victim in a string of disappearances with one thing in common--a Polaroid photo of each victim left behind at the crime scene.

The FBI is pulled into the case to help, and Garrett finds himself working with Special Agent Jordan Lambert, the woman he once loved. When yet another girl dies--number six--Garrett blames himself and believes he doesn't have what it takes to be an agent. What he'll discover is that, while he may be done with the killer, the killer is not done with him--or Jordan.

Bestselling and award-winning author Lisa Harris unveils an unforgettable story of a case that has haunted the public and law enforcement for more than a decade. Fans of the Nikki Boyd Files will thrill to finally discover what actually happened to Nikki's sister, Sarah. New readers will become instant fans after devouring this chilling tale.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Vanishing-Point-Nikki-Boyd-Novel/dp/0800728483/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1510510534&sr=8-1&keywords=vanishing+point+lisa+harris

Bestselling author LISA HARRIS is a Christy Award finalist for Blood Ransom and Vendetta, Christy Award winner for Dangerous Passage, and the winner of the Best Inspirational Suspense Novel for 2011 (Blood Covenant) and 2015 (Vendetta) from Romantic Times. She has over thirty novels and novella collections in print. She and her family have spent almost fourteen years working as missionaries in Africa where she runs a small non-profit organization that works alongside their church-planting ministry. The ECHO Project promotes Education, Compassion, Health, and Opportunity and is a way to "speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves...the poor and helpless, and see that they get justice." (Proverbs 31:8)

When she's not working she loves hanging out with her family, cooking different ethnic dishes, photography, and heading into the African bush on safari. For more information about her books and life in Africa visit her website at www.lisaharriswrites.com

My Thoughts...

This is the final book in the Nikki Boyd series, We are finally going to get to find out how it ends.
I won't spoil it for you, but you are going to want to read this dynamic ending to this series.
Are ready to dive in and find out what happened to Sarah,  Nikki's sister? Don't miss this ending.
I gave this book 4 stars and I can't wait to her your thoughts on this ending.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

A Place At Our Table By Amy Clipson

Kayla Dienner has suffered her fair share of heartache, which is why she vows to protect her heart at all costs . . . until she meets Jamie Riehl.
Along with his volunteer work at the local fire department, running his Amish farm keeps Jamie Riehl busy. He barely has time to eat at the family table, never mind find someone to date. But when he meets Kayla Dienner, he is smitten.
Kayla tries hard to deny her attraction to Jamie. After all, she’s spent the last year discouraging her younger brother, Nathan, from becoming a firefighter. The death of their older brother in a fire a year ago is fresh in her mind—she can’t bear the idea of putting her heart on the line every time the sirens blare.
Then tragedy strikes, and Jamie wants to extinguish any flame between him and Kayla. Can Kayla set aside her own fears to save the love she was determined to deny?
The first book in the Amish Homestead series, A Place at Our Table invites us to a quiet community in Lancaster County where love burns brightly no matter the cost.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Place-Table-Amish-Homestead-Novel/dp/031034901X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1510503450&sr=1-1&keywords=a+place+at+our+table+by+amy+clipston

Amy Clipston has been writing for as long as she can remember. Her fiction writing "career" began in elementary school when she and a close friend wrote and shared silly stories. She has a degree in communications from Virginia Wesleyan College and is a member of the Authors Guild, American Christian Fiction Writers, and Romance Writers of America. She is the author of the bestselling Kauffman Amish Bakery series with Zondervan, which is part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing. An advocate for organ and blood donation, Amy donated a kidney in 2011 at Johns Hopkins Hospital. Through her donation, her husband received a second kidney transplant. Amy and her husband matched another couple and swapped kidneys with them. Amy's memoir, A Gift of Love, will be available in early 2014. She hopes her story inspires others to become organ and blood donors. Amy lives in North Carolina with her husband, two sons, mother, and four spoiled rotten cats. You can find her on the web at www.AmyClipston.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AmyClipstonBooks.

My Thoughts...

This is book one of An Amish Homestead series.
Any Fire fighters wives out there? You may enjoy this one. 
Love going to Lancaster County to visit? You may enjoy this quiet little community then.
Romance fans may enjoy this one. If you are new to the Amish genre this would be a good place to start, One of Amy's books.
I gave this book 4 stars.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.