Devotions from the Beth Moore Library CD GIVEAWAY!

Devotions from the Beth Moore Library Audio CD, Volume 2 is a 2-disc audio CD set that includes 12 devotional segments from Beth's original Bible studies. Enjoy your travel time in the car by listening to some of the most uplifting, memorable, Scripture-based messages from beloved author Beth Moore. Each devotion is approximately 10 minutes in length—perfect for growing closer to God while you commute or run errands. This CD Set includes inspiring Scripture-based lessons that will offer you encouragement for your daily routine. Also makes a great gift!
Tracks include:

• The Good Life (James)
• Jesus, Our Passover (Stepping Up)
• Overcoming Friendly Captivity (Daniel)
• The Beautiful Heart (David)
• Our With Need (A Woman’s Heart)
• Courage in Discouragement (Believing God)
• Discipline in Waiting (Esther)
• Powerful Prayer (Beloved Disciple)
• Glory of God (David)
• Shekinah of Christ (James)
• Reversal of Destiny (Esther)
• God’s Call (The Patriarchs)

Benefits:

• Two-CD set
• Make the most of your travel time by listening to uplifting godly messages
• Each track is about 10 minutes in length—ideal when running errands or commuting

Author:
Beth Moore is an author and Bible teacher of best-selling Bible studies and books for women. She is the founder of Living Proof Ministries and speaker at Living Proof Live women’s events across the US. Her mission is to lead women everywhere into a richer, more fulfilling relationship with the Father through biblical literacy—guiding believers to love and live God’s Word. Beth loves the Lord, loves to laugh, and loves to be with His people.

Pick up your copy from lifeway or....
https://www.amazon.com/Devotions-Beth-Moore-Library-Audio/dp/1430029870/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1524612667&sr=8-1&keywords=Devotions+from+the+Beth+Moore+Library&dpID=51qIBUvl28L&preST=_SX218_BO1,204,203,200_QL40_&dpSrc=srch

 

Beth Moore has written many best-selling books and is a dynamic teacher and a prolific Bible-study author whose public speaking engagements take her across the United States to challenge tens of thousands. Beth is focused on teaching women all over the world and is known and respected wherever she goes. She is a dedicated wife and mother of two adult daughters and lives in Houston, Texas, where she leads Living Proof Ministries and teaches an adult Sunday school class at her church.

My Thoughts...

We are all so busy and finding time to dig into the scriptures is hard sometimes.
These Cd's are what Beth calls supplemental shots of scripture growth.
These 10 minute devotions can be played while running errands, picking up the kids, cooking, washing dishes, or even soaking in a bubble bath.
They are sure to edify and energize and encourage you.
I think these 5 star CD's are just what we all need in our lives.
The Mary Reader received these CD's from Lifeway for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Kind is the New Classy By Candace Cameron Bure GIVEAWAY!

As a woman in today’s world, you know what it’s like to feel pressure on all sides from clashing cultural expectations. How can you stay true to who God has uniquely created you to be in the face of the script you’ve been given? What’s more, how can you stand your ground with grace?
The classy confidence you know and love—whether it’s on set at Full House or Fuller House, Dancing with the Stars, The View, or Candace’s Hallmark films—is no act. But it hasn’t come easy. In fact, learning to stay true to herself with grace has been one of the biggest fights of Candace’s life.
The secret, she has learned, is kindness: it’s classy, unexpected, even counter-cultural, and ultimately wins the day.
In Kind Is the New Classy, Candace reveals the thought patterns and practices that have empowered her to stay centered in who she is while practicing radical graciousness toward others. Whether you’re navigating major life choices, questions of calling and career, relationships, or personal goals, this book will show you how to:

• Keep your cool under pressure
• Respond to criticism with grace
• Stay grounded yet go places in life
• Stay true to who you are despite the expectations of others
• Stay centered in what ultimately matters the most

Kind Is the New Classy is your permission to go off-script, to say goodbye to society’s “should’s” and to step into a new way to flourish as a woman today.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Kind-New-Classy-Living-Graciously/dp/0310350026/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1523577058&sr=1-1&keywords=kind+is+the+new+classy

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...

  Important, relentless, practical, and oh so convicting. Just a few words that I would use to describe this book.
Five books later and Candace can still move me and she writes the things no one else wants to write. And she does it with so much self confidence.
I am so proud of the lady that Candace has become and she is not afraid to share her Christian walk with the world.
The Tips and the Your Turn at the end of each chapter is worth  gold to me. Candace lays it all out there for the reader.
What if all of our girls read this book and changed their hearts and became kind and classy ladies.
This is a life changing read. It is to be shared. When you buy a copy why not buy an extra copy and share it.
5 stars two times and I HIGHLY recommend this life changing book.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.


You must follow this blog and leave a comment to be entered in the GIVEAWAY!

The Way of Abundance By Ann Voskamp Giveaway!

What do you do when you wake up and feel like you're not enough for your life? Or when you look out the kitchen window as dusk falls and wonder how do you live when life keeps breaking your heart?
As Ann Voskamp writes, “great grief isn't meant to fit inside your body. It's why your heart breaks.” And each of us holds enough brokenness to overflow—to be given as the greatest story of our lives.
In sixty vulnerably soulful stories, The Way of Abundance moves from self-weary brokenness to Christ-focused givenness. Drawing from the critically acclaimed, New York Times bestseller The Broken Way and Ann's online essays, this devotional dares us to embrace brokenness as a gift that moves us to givenness as a way to draw closer to the heart of God. Christ Himself broke like bread, giving Himself to us so we might have a lifelong communion with Him. Could it be that our brokenness is also a gift to the world?
This gentle but exquisitely profound book does nothing less than take you on an intimate journey of the soul.
As Ann writes, "The wound in His side proves that Jesus is always on the side of the suffering, the wounded, the busted, the broken." Discover how surrendering in unexpected ways is the first step toward receiving what you long for. Discover the good news that your beauty is not in your strength but in your fragility. Discover why your healing shines radiant through your wounds—and how only in brokenness will you ever be whole—and find the way to the abundance you were meant for.


Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Way-Abundance-60-Day-Journey-Meaningful/dp/031035031X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1524431401&sr=8-1&keywords=the+way+of+abundance+by+ann+voskamp

Ann Voskamp is wife of one good farmer, the home-educating mama to a seven exuberant kids, and author of the four New York Times Bestsellers,  The Broken Way, The Greatest Gift, Unwrapping The Greatest Gift, and One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are, a New York Times 60 week bestseller which has sold more than one million copies, the royalties of which the Voskamp family has given all away, the joy always in giving the gift back.
Named by Christianity Today as one of 50 women most shaping culture and the church today, and a partner with Compassion International as a global advocate for needy children, Ann's a regular loser of library books, usually has a sink full of soaking pots, sees empty laundry baskets rarer than a blue moon, and believes that the sky and fresh mercy over the farm is large and all is grace. Her blog, one of the Top 10 Christian blogs on the web, has become a daily well for the weary and soul-thirsty: www.aholyexperience.com.

My Thoughts...

So insightful, inspiring and uplifting. Ann did not disappoint.
This is a devotional I would call it more a journey we all need to take book.  
This is not to be missed and I would say share it with those you love.
What a way to spend your quiet time with Jesus.
So much depth in this one little book.
4 star gift book  that I hope everyone gets a chance 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.

Adamant By Lisa Bevere

By ancient definition, the adamant was known as both a diamond and a mythical stone of indestructible wonder. In more modern terminology, it describes a posture of unshakeable resolve and determination. If there was ever a time for us to be adamant about love and truth it is now. God is Love. God is Truth. Both love and truth are timeless, transcending our current trends and opinions. Sometimes the most loving thing we will ever do is to speak the truth, but speaking truth begins with living it.

Using the mediums of Scripture and story, New York Times bestselling author Lisa Bevere takes readers on a journey into the Mountain of God, to the one place they can learn not only to abide in God's unshakeable truth and love, but become adamant--people who are unmovable, determined, and steadfast. With conviction and passion, Lisa unpacks the concept of the adamant for readers, linking together the grand story of Scripture and God's purpose in their lives. Readers will see that God's plan is revealed as we dwell in him, it is there that we are forged and shaped. As we abide in Christ our Cornerstone we are shaped into the image of the adamant.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Adamant-Finding-Truth-Universe-Opinions/dp/0800727258/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1524096094&sr=1-1&keywords=adamant+lisa+bevere

Lisa Bevere’s authentic, passionate, and hilarious approach weaves profound biblical truths with practical application. Her books—which include Fight Like a Girl, Lioness Arising, and Girls with Swords—are in the hands of millions worldwide. Lisa and her husband, John, are best-selling authors and the founders of Messenger International. She is a grandmother and Sicilian mother of four sons.

Connect with Lisa Bevere:

Blog: http://www.lisabevere.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/LisaBevere
Facebook Fan Page: http://www.facebook.com/lisabevere.page

My Thoughts...

I am a huge fan of Lisa's. She writes the most convicting books.
This book was wrote just for me. So much truth and so much to chew on. Makes you dig deep, that's for sure.
I have read it twice since I got it and I plan to read it again.
This is a must read for everyone.
I gave this book 5 stars and I HIGHLY recommend this book.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

An Amish Heirloom by Amy, Kathy, Kelly and Beth Four Novellas

A Legacy of Love by Amy Clipston
Local volunteer fire fighter Leon King agrees to repair his ex-girlfriend Susie Bontrager’s grandparents’ antique rocking chairs for her future home with her fiance and is forced to acknowledge that his feelings for her have not quite gone away. As Susie spends time with Leon, she begins to recognize she is marrying the wrong man for all the wrong reasons.
The Cedar Chest by Beth Wiseman
Decades after inheriting her great grandmother’s cedar chest, Emma Fisher decides to pry it open only to discover a beautiful love story in the form of letters between her great grandparents. But as Emma immerses herself in their story, family secrets are revealed, and she must decide whether to share them to preserve family history or honor her great grandparents’ decision to leave them hidden.
The Treasured Book by Kathleen Fuller
For the past two years, Shane Broyles has felt God leading him to join the Amish. He’s staying with his friends Noah and Ivy Schlabach in Birch Creek, OH, where he is reunited with Lucy Fisher, an old friend of Noah’s family. Shane and Lucy have never revealed their feelings for each other, but when they stumble upon an antique Bible at a flea market, they feel drawn to each other and to the mystery of the contents found within.
The Midwife’s Dream by Kelly Irvin
Iris Beachy serves as a midwife in her district where she longs for a family of her own. When her friend’s brother Mahon Kurtz seeks her help in delivering the baby of two young teenagers who have sought refuge in their town, they begin to see each other in a different light. Unprepared for parenthood, the young couple leave their baby girl behind in an antique crib quilt resembling the one destined for Iris when she becomes a mother. Mahon and Iris come together to take care of the baby as they try to find her parents, and they begin to see new possibilities for their future.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Amish-Heirloom-Legacy-Treasured-Midwifes/dp/031035188X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1523580080&sr=1-1&keywords=an+amish+heirloom+clipston

My Thoughts...

I normally am not a fan of novellas, but these four were not your normal novellas. I really enjoyed them.
I must say that you are going to want to dive into them and see which one is your favorite. I will share mine The Legacy of Love and The Treasured Book, Duh of course you know I'm going to love that one and the Midwife's Dream  I read them all in one sitting one evening.
This book was a 4 star book. I recommend giving it a try.
Clipston, Kelly, and Fuller did not disappoint.
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 Pirate Bride By Kathleen Y'Barbo

Can a former privateer and a determined heiress find lost treasure in 1725?
A brand new series for fans of all things related to history, romance, adventure, faith, and family trees.


 
Pasts Collide in New Orleans when a Treasure Goes Missing
The last time New Orleans attorney Jean-Luc Valmont saw Maribel Cordoba, a Spanish nobleman’s daughter, she was an eleven-year-old orphan perched in the riggings of his privateering vessel proving herself as the best lookout on his crew. Until the day his infamy caught up with them all and innocent lives were lost. Unsure why he survived but vowing to make something of the chance he was given, Jean-Luc has buried his past life so deep that no living person will ever find it—until a very much alive and very grown up Maribel Cordoba arrives on his doorstep and threatens all he now holds dear.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Pirate-Bride-Daughters-Mayflower-Book/dp/1683224973/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1523574718&sr=1-1&keywords=The+Pirate+Bride+By+Kathleen+Y%27Barbo

A certified paralegal and tenth generation Texan, Kathleen has also been nominated for a Career Achievement Award as well a Reader's Choice Award and several Top Picks by Romantic Times magazine. To find out more about Kathleen or connect with her through social media, check out her website at www.kathleenybarbo.com.

My Thoughts...

I could not get into this book. The characters were dry and not well put together, never mind that the romance did not take place until almost the end of the story. 
The story felt rushed and the authors storytelling was not up to par.
I hate that I did not like this book in the Daughters of the Mayflower series.
I also hate that I had to give this book 2 stars, it was not MY cup of tea. Be on the lookout for my review of the next book in this series, you don't want to miss 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 Weaver's Daughter by Sarah Ladd

Kate's loyalties bind her to the past. Henry's loyalties compel him to strive for a better future. In a landscape torn between tradition and vision, can two souls find the strength to overcome their preconceptions? Loyalty has been at the heart of the Dearborne family for as long as Kate can remember, but a war is brewing in their small village, one that has the power to rip families asunder -- including her own. As misguided actions are brought to light, she learns how deep her father's pride and bitterness run, and she begins to wonder if her loyalty is well-placed.Henry Stockton, heir to the Stockton fortune, returns home from three years at war hoping to find a refuge from his haunting memories. Determined to bury the past, he embraces his grandfather's goals to modernize his family's wool mill, regardless of the grumblings from the local weavers. When tragedy strikes shortly after his arrival, Henry must sort out the truth from suspicion if he is to protect his family's livelihood and legacy.Henry has been warned about the Dearborne family. Kate, too, has been advised to stay far away from the Stocktons, but chance meetings continue to bring her to Henry's side, blurring the jagged lines between loyalty, justice, and truth. Kate ultimately finds herself with the powerful decision that will forever affect her village's future. As unlikely adversaries, Henry and Kate must come together to find a way to create peace for their families, and their village, and their souls - even if it means risking their hearts in the process.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Weavers-Daughter-Regency-Romance-Novel/dp/0718011880/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1523576262&sr=8-1&keywords=the+weaver%27s+daughter+by+sarah+e.+ladd

Sarah E. Ladd has always loved the Regency period — the clothes, the music, the literature and the art. A college trip to England and Scotland confirmed her interest in the time period and gave her idea of what life would’ve looked like in era. It wasn’t until 2010 that Ladd began writing seriously. Shortly after, Ladd released the first book in the Whispers on the Moors series. Book one of the series, The Heiress of Winterwood, was the recipient of the 2011 ACFW Genesis Award for historical romance.

My Thoughts...

Looking for a sweet romance? Swoon worthy romance? Then this is your book.
I enjoyed the whole story I hated that the kids had to work to help the family. But that was part of life back then.
Ladd never disappoints, so you have to grab a copy and see if you like that it told from two points of view. I really thought it was very well written.
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.

Refuge of the Heart By Ruth Logan Herne

District Attorney Mitchell Sanderson lost his family to tragedy. He became a dogged prosecutor with an enviable conviction rate. But when faith, conscience and love of a troubled refugee ripple the smooth waters of his existence, can Mitch risk everything for love? Magdalena Serida fought her way out of a government-quelled uprising in Chechnya. The church-sponsored refugee knows the horrors of war first-hand. Now in America with her five-year-old sister, Lena is uncertain who to trust. Her Christian faith has maintained her through the loss of her family, but when Mitch Sanderson shows interest, Lena longs to take a chance. Should she open herself up to this man of law and order, a man who imprisons women like her? Or slip quietly back into the shadowed fringe of anonymity? Choices slip away when Mitch’s friend spews half-truths about Lena, rumors that cost Mitch his new love and possibly the election. Can he find his way to a faith deep enough to love again, and to offer Lena the refuge of his heart? Reflecting the world’s turbulence and the plight of global refugees, award-winning author Ruth Logan Herne shrinks the vast numbers to the story of one woman… one child… the travesty of war and the grace of peace in this Maggie Award-winning book of faith, hope, love… and freedom. Lena’s story won’t just touch your heart… it will stir your soul.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Refuge-Heart-Ruth-Logan-Herne/dp/1986246191/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1523162074&sr=8-1&keywords=refuge+of+the+heart+ruth+logan+herne

Best-selling, multi-published author Ruth Logan Herne is the author of over thirty novels and novellas through traditional publishers and her own independent works. She loves God, her family, country, coffee, chocolate and dogs, and wishes possums would leave the cat food on the side porch alone. With over 3/4 million books in print, Ruthy is living her dream of touching hearts and souls by writing the kind of books she likes to read. She is also part of Mighty Finn Creations with her photographer/editor daughter Beth Jamison, and their new series "The Adventures of The Mighty Finn" has just released.

She loves chatting with readers through her website blog http://ruthloganherne.com and hanging with readers and writers in Seekerville... www.seekerville.blogspot.com where coffee is always hot, fresh and good! She loves playing in the kitchen, too, with a wonderful group of regionally-inspired inspirational authors at the Yankee Belle Cafe www.yankeebellecafe.blogspot.com. On Goodreads, she's (yes, you guessed it!) Ruth Logan Herne, and that's how to find this prolific author on facebook, too!

My Thoughts...

Wow, this book was hard to put down. I could feel the emotion from the characters. I was pulled in from the beginning.
I loved Mitch and  Lena and Anna. Thiers is a story that I won't soon forget. This is not your typical love story, but it is oh so good.
I plan to share this book with many friends.
I gave this book 4 stars and 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.

Her Texas Cowboy By Jill Lynn

When Rachel Maddox returns to her hometown of Fredericksburg, Texas, avoiding her ex is much easier said than done. Still nursing the broken heart Rachel caused years earlier, rancher next door Hunter McDermott figures he can be cordial for the brief time she’s in town—maybe they can even be friends. But how do you forge just a friendship with someone you’ve always pictured as your bride?

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Her-Texas-Cowboy-Love-Inspired/dp/1335509496/ref=tmm_mmp_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1521146189&sr=8-1

Jill Lynn lives in Colorado with her husband and two children. She has a bachelor’s degree in communications from Bethel University and is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers group. In 2013, she won the ACFW Genesis award. Jill enjoys reading and writing stories filled with grace, humor and happily-ever-after. When she’s not plotting her next book, she can be found hanging out with her entertaining family.

My Thoughts...

I will be really honest this Author should not be writing Love Inspired Books. She is to good to be writing short stories.
I LOVED this book from beginning to end. You must read Hunter and Rachel's story. You will want to find out if they can be friends or maybe even more than friends.
This is not your predictable love story that everyone is writing. This is a fantastic read. You can read it in an hour and if you are like me you will be left wanting more.
I gave this book 5 stars two times. 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.

Pelican point By Irene Hannon

A crumbling lighthouse is not part of the inheritance Army doctor Ben Garrison expects to claim when he journeys to Hope Harbor. Fresh out of the service, he wants only to unload the tower of bricks, decompress from years of treating battlefield trauma, and prepare to launch his civilian career.

Hope Harbor Herald editor Marci Weber has other ideas. She may not be a Hope Harbor native, but the small Oregon seaside town has become home--and she's determined to save the Pelican Point landmark.

Sparks fly as the two go head to head over the fate of the lighthouse. But when they start to cooperate, a different kind of fire ignites. And as they work together, might Hope Harbor heal the hearts of these two romance-wary souls?

Bestselling author Irene Hannon invites readers back to their favorite town for a story that will light a beacon of hope within their hearts.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Pelican-Point-Hope-Harbor-Novel/dp/0800728807/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1523572756&sr=8-1&keywords=pelican+point+by+irene+hannon

Irene Hannon is the best-selling author of more than 35 novels. Her books have been honored with the coveted RITA Award from Romance Writers of America, the HOLT Medallion, the Reviewer's Choice Award from Romantic Times BOOKreviews magazine and the Daphne du Maurier Award for mystery/suspense. Irene and her husband make their home in Missouri, USA. Irene invites you to visit her at her website, www.irenehannon.com

My Thoughts...

This has been a really good series. I liked Pelican Point so much because I love lighthouses and this has a lighthouse at the center of the story.
The Characters are so loveable, they are just like family. The romance is fabulous I will say I was left wanting more, I hated to see the story end.
This is a 4.5 star book. I HIGHLY recommend this book as well as the whole series.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Embraced By Lysa Terkeurst

Embraced is the beautiful new devotional from Lysa TerKeurst, the president of Proverbs 31 Ministries and the New York Times bestselling author of Uninvited, The Best Yes, Unglued, and Made to Crave. Embraced features 100 devotions that will resonate with women in all stages of life by giving them a godly perspective on the issues they face each day.
A real embrace indicates an intimate level of closeness. It’s not a high five or a casual handshake. The best kind of embrace is when someone we know deeply loves us flings their arms wide open and pulls us in close.
Our hearts were made for this kind of love and security but for many of us, we know more about the pain of heartbreak and fear than the unconditional love for which we were created.In Embraced, Lysa shares her own struggles, doubts, and heartbreaks while pointing to the Ultimate Embrace: God opening His arms wide on Calvary through Jesus so that He could pull us close for all of eternity. Welcoming us into the safety and hope of His grace and His love.
And because we have been fully embraced by Him, we can spend our lives held securely by Him and trust all of His ways.
Through these 100 devotions, daily scriptures, and prayer prompts, readers will be equipped to:

• Begin to find freedom from the struggles that have held them hostage by learning new ways to experience God’s love and more authentic ways to trust Him.
• Surrender their deepest hurts by processing them in a godly way with Lysa, a friend who understands their pain.
• Hear the Lord speak intimately to their heart by learning how to seek His direction.
• Release the tension of wondering, If God is near why does He sometimes feel far away? by spending intentional, guided time with Him each day.

With an exquisite cloth cover, highly designed interior, ribbon marker, and stained page edges, Embraced will be a treasured keepsake for you as well as a meaningful gift for those you love.


Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Embraced-Devotions-Know-Holding-Close/dp/1400310296/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1523583250&sr=1-1&keywords=embraced+lysa+terkeurst

Lysa TerKeurst (www.lysaterkeurst.com) is the New York Times bestselling author of "Made to Crave" and "Unglued" as well as 14 other titles and a speaker who helps everyday women live an adventure of faith through following Jesus Christ. As president of Proverbs 31 Ministries, Lysa has led thousands to make their walk with God an invigorating journey. For over 15 years, her message has enabled women to:

Make the Bible come alive whenever you read it.
Discover how to develop inner peace and security in any situation.
Replace doubt, regret, and envy with truth, confidence, and praise.
Stop unhealthy cycles of striving and learn to love who you are.
Sense God responding to your prayers.

Lysa's personal adventure of following God captured national media attention when she and her husband adopted two teenage boys from a war-torn orphanage in Liberia, Africa. They never imagined their decision would start a chain reaction within their community, which inspired other families to adopt over 45 children from the same orphanage! Lysa's amazing story led to appearances on The Oprah Winfrey Show, Good Morning America, The 700 Club, USA Today newspaper, Woman's Day magazine, and Focus on the Family radio.

Today, Lysa and her ministry team at Proverbs 31 encourage 500,000 women through their daily online devotional. In addition, she co-hosts a 1-minute inspirational radio program aired on more than 1,200 stations around the world. Lysa's blog averages over 80,000 avid readers per month. Plus, she touches hearts through their monthly magazine, P31 Woman.

Lysa is the award-winning author of 14 books, including her newest New York Times bestselling release, Made to Crave: Satisfying Your Deepest Desire with God Not Food..

Other noteworthy books include:

Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl
What Happens When Women Say Yes To God
What Happens When Women Walk In Faith
Am I Messing Up My Kids?
Capture His Heart
Capture Her Heart
Living Life On Purpose
A Woman's Secret To A Balanced Life
Leading Women to the Heart of God

Lysa was a Gold Medallion finalist for her book, Leading Women to the Heart of God, and a People's Choice Award finalist for, What Happens When Women Walk In Faith. In addition, her articles have been published in Focus on the Family magazine, Marriage Partnership, and Crown Financial Ministries' Money Matters.

Each year, Lysa is a featured keynote presenter at more than 40 women's events, banquets, and retreats across North America, including the Extraordinary Women conferences and Focus on the Family's women's conference, Renewing the Heart. In addition, she hosts the annual She Speaks Conference, which has helped thousands of women gain the tools to pursue God's calling on their life.

In the midst of her busy schedule, Lysa is an everyday woman who simply seeks to glorify God through her life and family. She and her husband, Art, reside near Charlotte, North Carolina, with their five priority blessings named Jackson, Mark, Hope, Ashley, and Brooke. Join Lysa and discover the everyday adventure that God has waiting for you! www.lysaterkeurst.com

My Thoughts...

This is such an encouraging devotional. Lysa never disappoints and this is my new favorite devotional that I will be reading the rest of the year.
We all need uplifting and encouraging so first thing in the morning I love reading what Lysa has to say and contemplating on her words.
This is most definitely a 5 star book. It would make a wonderful gift.
  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 Family for Easter By Lee Tobin

Too different to fall in love? In Rescue River, anything can happen…When wealthy single mom Fiona Farmingham rents her carriage house to widowed Eduardo Delgado, it’s purely in friendship. Insecure over her late husband’s betrayal, Fiona hides her attraction to the humble landscaper. Between them they have six children, two dogs—and a world of differences. But with half a dozen little matchmakers involved, can they find the courage to reach for happiness once more.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Family-Easter-Rescue-River/dp/1335509364/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

Lee Tobin McClain read Gone With The Wind in the third grade and has been an incurable romantic ever since. When she not writing emotional Christian romances, she's probably driving around a carload of snarky teen girls, playing with her rescue dog and cat, or teaching aspiring writers in Seton Hill University's MFA program. She is probably not cleaning her house.

You can find Lee online at http://www.leetobinmcclain.com and on Twitter @LeeTobinMcClain. Like her on Facebook or email her at LeeMcClain@comcast.net. She loves to hear from readers!

My Thoughts...

This blogger/reviewer still says that really talented authors should NOT write these what I call novellas. This was the first book that I have read by this author, but it will not be my last.
I did not like Fiona's mom could not get past her black ugly heart but the rest of the characters were loveable and made this book a good one. I read it in one sitting.
 The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

I Can Only Imagine By Bart Millard

“The Story That Inspired the Major Motion Picture.”
The captivating story behind the bestselling single in the history of Christian music—and the man who wrote it
MercyMe’s crossover hit, “I Can Only Imagine,” has touched millions of people around the world. But few know about the pain, redemption, and healing that inspired it. Now Bart Millard, award-winning recording artist and lead singer of MercyMe, shares how his dad’s transformation from abusive father to man of God sparked a divine moment in music history.
Go behind the scenes of Bart’s life—and the movie based on it—to discover how God repaired a broken family, prepared Bart for ministry through music, and wrote the words on his heart that would change his life forever. I Can Only Imagine is a front-row seat to witnessing God’s presence throughout Bart’s life. Whether falling in love with his childhood sweetheart or mourning his father’s death, founding MercyMe or flailing in the midst of its success, Bart continues to place his trust in God’s plans—plans that continue to surprise and surpass what Bart could have ever imagined.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/I-Can-Only-Imagine-Memoir/dp/0785216731/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1523483171&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=i+can+only+imagine+book&psc=1

Bart Millard is a founding member and lead singer of the multi-platinum selling contemporary Christian band MercyMe. He is married to his childhood sweetheart, Shannon. They reside in Franklin, TN along with their children Sam, Gracie, Charlie, Sophie and Miles. 

My Thoughts...

I have always been a fan of MercyMe. I absolutely love their music. I was so excited when I received this book for review. Sometimes we prejudge artist and assume everything in their life now and in the past was rainbows and unicorns. It was amazing to read and learn what Bart endured throughout his life. His faith played a great role in shaping him into who he is now. I was pulled into his story and could not put this book down until I finished it. Millard tells in the beginning he can add more into a book and go into further detail than is allowed in a motion picture. If anyone watches the movie and passes on the book I believe they have done themselves a disservice. This is one of the most inspiring reads I have read in a while. 

I gave this book 5 stars.  I HIGHLY recommend this book.

The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Only By Death By Kathy Herman

Is Liam Berne a loving son—or a murderer? The second book in the Ozark Mountain Trilogy, Only by Death is a thought-provoking suspense story of a man who loses everything and learns he must die to find life.

After much agonizing, Liam Berne takes his mother, who has Alzheimer’s, to the Sure Foot River and drowns her. A mercy killing, he tells himself, to spare her years in a nursing home. And getting his inheritance early isn’t a bad thing either.

Dixie Berne’s body is recovered and the coroner cannot find any sign of foul play, though Liam’s sister isn’t convinced. Then Liam hears rumors that a twelve-year-old boy has witnessed the drowning. Terrified that he will be discovered, Liam sets out to intimidate the boy into silence. Little does Liam know that someone else suspects him—someone who intends to make him pay.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Only-Death-Novel-Mountain-Trilogy/dp/1434704769/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1522888002&sr=8-1&keywords=only+by+death+by+kathy+herman

Kathy Herman is no stranger to the Christian publishing industry. Before becoming a bestselling author and award-winning poet, Kathy worked on staff at the Christian Booksellers Association for five years. She gained eleven years of bookstore experience as a children's products specialist and drew on that expertise to conduct related seminars in the U.S. and Canada.

Kathy quickly rose to the rank of bestselling author when her first novel, TESTED BY FIRE, became a CBA bestseller shortly after its release. Since then, eight more of her novels have claimed the title of bestseller: ALL THINGS HIDDEN, THE REAL ENEMY, THE LAST WORD, THE RIGHT CALL,FALSE PRETENSES,DANGEROUS MERCY, RELENTLESS PURSUIT and NOT BY SIGHT.

Her contemporary, fast-paced novels weave inspirational messages into the storyline so effectively that a college professor in Houston utilized her books as required reading to educate students on the value of teaching through fiction. Kathy's books have also been widely used in book club discussion and Bible study groups.

Kathy and her husband Paul live in East Texas and have three grown children, five "nearly perfect" grandchildren, and an adorable cat named Samantha. Her hobbies include photography and bird watching--especially an ongoing fascination with hummingbirds.

My Thoughts...

I can't say enough good things about this book. The characters were very well  developed and the plot was solid.  One thing about this book was that I fell in love with the family. The love for one another in the family was bar none. Jesse had the faith of a young man that I wish our youth today had. I was taken in by the story from the first page. I must say that part of the plot was very thought provoking. 

I gave this book 5 stars. I recommend this book as well as book 1 in the Ozark Mountain Trilogy series.

The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Shadows of Hope By Georgiana Daniels

A story of hope in the aftermath of inconceivable betrayal and broken dreams
What if. . .
. . .you struggled with infertility but unknowingly befriended your husband’s pregnant mistress?

What if. . .
. . .the woman you were seeing behind your wife’s back gets pregnant, threatening your job and marriage?

What if. . .
. . .your boyfriend never told you he was married and you discover you’re pregnant?

Crisis pregnancy worker Marissa Moreau suspects her husband is cheating, but little does she know how close to home her husband’s infidelity hits. College student Kaitlyn Farrows is floundering after a relationship with her professor leaves her pregnant. Soon she lands a job and a support system at the local pregnancy resource center and things seem to be turning around. But when Marissa and Kaitlyn become friends, neither one knows they share a connection—Colin, Marissa’s husband and Kaitlyn’s former professor. When their private lives collide, the two women must face the ultimate test of their faith and choose how to move forward as they live in the shadows of hope.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Shadows-Hope-Georgiana-Daniels/dp/1683225457/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1522720532&sr=1-1-spons&keywords=shadows+of+hope+georgiana+daniels&psc=1

Georgiana Daniels resides in the beautiful mountains of Arizona with her super-generous husband and three talented daughters. She graduated from Northern Arizona University with a bachelor's degree in public relations and now has the privilege of homeschooling by day and wrestling with the keyboard by night. She enjoys sharing God's love through fiction and is exceedingly thankful for her own happily ever after.

My Thoughts...

I was so excited about reading this book. I had never read anything by this author and so as a book lover always looking for a new author. I set out with an open mind. I was enjoying the book until the end.
As an avid reader, the ending was rather abrupt for me.
It took me over the cliff and left me hanging. I did ask the author if there was a book 2 and she said no.
I sadly have to give this book 3 stars.
I will try her again if she writes another book in the future.
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 Daniel Key By Anne Graham Lotz

Twenty choices will bring contentment when the world says you aren’t enough, closeness born of relationship with God, boldness to share the truth, and peace in times of trial. These choices were made by Daniel, a young Jewish man serving God in a godless society, revered by God, saved from lions. The Daniel Key will lead you to a life-changing faith.
What are the secrets of a successful, steadfast, and godly faith? Daniel was honored by God, protected, and trusted. His faith did not waver facing those who were against him, serving new kings in power, or even confronting hungry lions. How can you have that kind of faith? Daniel made 20 intentional, key choices in his life. Those choices took him down a path to a close relationship with God and a model for godly living to all around him. Daniel’s choices can be your choices—choices such as:

• The choice to trust
• The choice to obey
• The choice to pray
• The choice to worship
• The choice to repent
• The choice to live humbly
• The choice to have courage

The 20 choices will bring you contentment when the world says you are not enough, closeness born of a relationship with God, boldness to share the truth, and peace in times of trial. The Daniel Key will lead you to a life-changing faith.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Daniel-Key-Choices-That-Difference/dp/0310091934/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1523062465&sr=8-1&keywords=the+daniel+key+by+anne+graham+lotz

Anne Graham Lotz, daughter of Billy and Ruth Graham, is the president and CEO of AnGeL Ministries (www.annegrahamlotz.com), a nonprofit organization that undergirds her efforts to draw people into a life-changing relationship with God through His Word. Anne has spoken on seven continents, in more than twenty foreign countries, proclaiming the Word of God in arenas, churches, seminaries, and prisons. She is the award-winning author of ten books, including her signature book, Just Give Me Jesus. In 2000 she launched her revival ministry, also entitled Just Give Me Jesus. This free event has been held for hundreds of thousands of women in more than thirty major cities in the United States, Asia, the United Kingdom, Eastern Europe, Scandinavia and South America.

My Thoughts...

This is a fantastic gift book for the seasoned Christian. You can see Billy Graham shine through Ann on each page.
This is a wonderful read each morning while digging deeper in your Bible.
I highly recommend this book and pick up an extra copy because it is  going to be a gift book that you will want to share with many people in your life.
I gave this book 5 stars. I will keep a copy of my shelf to reread.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Holy in the Moment By Ginger Harrington

Enjoying life (zoe) in Christ comes in the choices we make moment-by-moment. Ginger Harrington invites women to discover how intentional choices made in the moment can become holy habits. With a refreshing perspective, she shows that holiness isn’t a rigid standard to keep but a gift to receive through a vital relationship with God, who makes us whole.
Holy in the Moment explores the practical power of choices to grow in holiness without the pressure of perfectionism. Through gentle encouragement, biblical insights, and applicable ideas learn to discern feelings and overcome distractions and shame, adapt God’s equation for obedience, live a praying life, discover methods for practicing holiness in parenting and the importance of rest, embrace biblical love and forgiveness, and understand how work becomes holy.
Re-energize faith with simple choices to love God, embrace truth, and enjoy every moment of life with practical ways to be holy by choosing to trust God, rely on his wisdom, and live from his resources.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Holy-Moment-Simple-Ways-Enjoy/dp/1501857800/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1522720232&sr=8-1&keywords=holy+in+the+moment+ginger+Harrington

Ginger Harrington, is a retired Marine spouse and mom of three young adults and two dachshunds. Author of Holy in the Moment, she is an award-winning blogger and motivational speaker. A co-founder of Planting Roots: Strength to Thrive in Military Life, a military-focused non-profit, Ginger serves as coordinator of publishing, speaks at regional conferences, and assists with social media. With a volunteer staff of 35, Planting Roots, offers a community FB page, online blog posts and Bible study, and live regional conferences. With a dash of quirky humor, Ginger entertains and inspires audiences with characters such as The Queen of Good Intentions, Can’t-Get-It-Together Girl, and My Inner Wimp to enliven her messages. She writes inspirational encouragement at GingerHarrington.com and Planting Roots, and has provided content for and Roma Downey and Mark Burnett’s LightWorkers.com, Guideposts, MilitaryNavs, (in)courage, More to Be, and others.She lives in Virginia.

My Thoughts...

Are you ready to deepen your relationship with God and live biblically? Then this just may the book for you.
Harrington writes with such conviction.
If you are looking for, no, if you are praying for that connection with God then you must read this book.
I gave this book 4 stars and 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.

When We Say Father By Adrian Rogers and Son

Adrian Roger's last written manuscript before his passing in 2005, has been edited and brought together by his son Steve, as a final joint work. When We Say Father takes the Lord's Prayer and breaks it down to its most basic components for readers to easily learn how to pray from the ultimate source, Jesus himself.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/When-We-Say-Father-Unlocking/dp/1462771300/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1522719378&sr=1-1&keywords=when+we+say+father

The late Adrian Rogers was the pastor of the 27,000-member Bellevue Baptist Church in Memphis. He served three times as President of the Southern Baptist Convention and wrote many books. He also reached many people through his television and radio ministry, “Love Worth Finding.”

My Thoughts...

Struggling with your prayer life? Then this is just the book for you.
Many of us remember Adrian Rogers from years ago. You are in for a treat with this, his last book. A small book but so full of valuable insight to our prayer life.
You will find it reads very easy to understand, and you will reread it many times. It will be a great book to share with others as well.
I gave this book 4 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.

Unafraid By Adam Hamilton

Fear is a complex emotion. Sometimes it saves us. More often it robs us of the life we want. But we can take our lives back. You'd be hard-pressed to overstate the extent to which fear, anxiety, and worry permeate our lives today. Fear wreaks havoc on our relationships and communities. It leads us into making bad decisions. It holds us back from the very pursuits that promise fulfillment and joy.

Making matters worse, not a week goes by when some new threat or calamity isn't dominating the headlines. Why are there so many tragedies? we wonder. What will happen next?

As the senior pastor of a large, diverse church in America's heartland, Adam Hamilton has seen the cost of fear up close. When he surveyed his congregation on how fear affects them, 2,400 people responded--and what they said was eye-opening. Eighty percent admitted to living with moderate or significant levels of fear.
Unafraid: Living with Courage and Hope in Uncertain Times is Reverend Hamilton's insightful and impassioned response.

Drawing on recent research, inspiring real-life examples, and fresh biblical insight, Hamilton shows how to untangle the knots we feel about disappointing others, failure, financial insecurity, loneliness, insignificance, and aging. Then he helps readers understand and counter fears related to such outsize perils as terrorism, death, and the apocalypse.

Writing with generosity and intelligence, Hamilton shows how believer and unbeliever alike can develop sustaining spiritual practices and embrace Jesus's recurring counsel: "Do not be afraid." For anyone struggling with fear or wondering how families and communities can thrive in troubled times, Unafraid offers an informed and inspiring message full of practical solutions.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Unafraid-Living-Courage-Uncertain-Times/dp/1524760331/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1522718585&sr=8-1&keywords=unafraid+adam+Hamilton

Adam Hamilton is senior pastor of The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kansas, one of the fastest growing, most highly visible churches in the country. The Church Report named Hamilton's congregation the most influential mainline church in America, and he preached at the National Prayer Service as part of the presidential inauguration festivities in 2013. Hamilton is the best-selling and award-winning author of The Journey, The Way, 24 Hours that Changed the World, Enough, When Christians Get it Wrong, and Seeing Gray in a World of Black and White, all published by Abingdon Press.

My Thoughts...

In a world of uncertain times and so much ugliness. This is a on time book. This is such a thought provoking read.
Hamilton's faith rocks through out this book.
This is such a relevant book and filled with biblical insight.
It is a quick read very easy to understand. It would make a wonderful small group Bible study. 
I gave this book 4 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.