Tuesday, June 26, 2018

The Patriot Bride By Kimberley Woodhouse



Faith Jackson and Matthew Weber are both working covertly to aid the Patriot cause. But will they be willing to sacrifice all for their fledgling country?A brand new series for fans of all things related to history, romance, adventure, faith, and family trees.

Spies Work Together for the Patriot Cause
Faith Jackson is a wealthy widow, friend of George Washington, and staunch supporter of the Patriot cause. Matthew Weber is friends with both Ben Franklin and his son William, who increasingly differ in their political views; and Matthew finds himself privy to information on both sides of the conflict. When a message needs to get to a spy among the Loyalists, Faith bravely steps up and in turn meets Matthew Weber. Suddenly she believes she could love again. But someone else has his eye on the Faith she portrays in elite social circles. What will Matthew and Faith have to sacrifice for the sake of their fledgling country?

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Patriot-Bride-Daughters-Mayflower-book/dp/1683226062/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1529697439&sr=8-1

Kimberley Woodhouse is the best-selling and award-winning author of more than a dozen books. She is a wife, mother, author, and musician with a quick wit and positive outlook despite difficult circumstances. A popular speaker, she's shared at more than 2,000 venues across the country. Kimberley and her family's story have garnered national media attention for many years including ABC's Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, The Montel Williams Show, Discovery Health channel's Mystery ER, The Hour of Power, The Harvest Show, and over 1,000 other TV appearances and radio interviews. She lives and writes in Colorado with her husband of twenty-five years and their two amazing kids. kimberleywoodhouse.com
Find Kim on twitter and facebook:
twitter.com/kimwoodhouse
author fan page Kimberley Woodhouse

Post By AJ

Monday, June 25, 2018

Room on the Porch Swing By Amy Clipson



When tragedy strikes, can two young Amish people find the hope that lies on the other side?
Laura Riehl is no stranger to heartache. Less than a year after her mother’s death, Laura finds herself burying another loved one: her best friend, Savilla, who has died after a brief and sudden illness. Laura feels heartbroken and alone, but her pain is nothing compared to that of Allen, the husband Savilla has left behind. He now faces a life so different from the one he imagined—plus a baby to care for on his own.
When Laura offers to help Allen with baby Mollie, he jumps at the opportunity until a permanent solution can be found. She’d do anything to lend a hand to Allen and to honor her best friend’s memory. Rudy, Laura’s boyfriend, is initially supportive of her plan, but the more time Laura spends with Allen, the more jealous and frustrated Rudy seems to become.
As Laura and Allen face hardships together, their friendship takes a surprising yet comforting turn—and she discovers an attraction she’s never felt with Rudy. Would falling for Allen betray the people she cares about most, or would denying those feelings betray her heart? This latest installment in the Amish Homestead series returns us to Lancaster County, home of the beloved Riehls, where a family’s strength—and advice from a new friend—may help Laura find God’s direction.


Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Porch-Swing-Amish-Homestead-Novel/dp/0310349079/ref=sr_1_1_twi_pap_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1529887590&sr=8-1&keywords=room+on+the+porch+swing+by+amy+clipston&dpID=51wCUvIt8XL&preST=_SY291_BO1,204,203,200_QL40_&dpSrc=srch


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.

A five star must read.

Post by AJ

Sunday, June 24, 2018

Messy to Meaningful By Rhonda Rhea and Kaley Rhea




Got a junk drawer? Ever find yourself stuffing stray items in there without thinking? Holding on to incidentals that are no longer needed? Yeah, most of us are there. We can do that same sort of stuffing in our spiritual lives, holding on to so much junk that it becomes tough to fit in the good things the Lord is calling us to. What if we told you there are ways to sort through some of that junk, keep what you need, throw out what’s unnecessary and move forward, less hindered, less weighed down, more spiritually organized—more...free? There are powerful truths in the Word of God to get you to that very place. You’re invited to take a little journey through the junk drawer, enjoy some chuckles with girlfriends Monica Schmelter, Rhonda Rhea and Kaley Rhea, and find yourself some beautiful...free.


Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Messy-Meaningful-Lessons-Junk-Drawer/dp/1946708224/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1529189917&sr=1-1&keywords=messy+to+meaningful&dpID=51xnuylJnbL&preST=_SY291_BO1,204,203,200_QL40_&dpSrc=srch


Rhonda Rhea is an author, speaker and TV personality who says, "a good psychosis is a terrible thing to waste." She says she's milked hers--even as a Bible teacher. Rhonda is a funny lady who speaks at conferences and events nationwide.

Anyone interested in writing and speaking? Rhonda advises to have five kids. "They're not cheap but they're a great source of material." Her five are now grown but she says they're still providing great content for her books, speaking events and radio and TV appearances.

Rhonda works with Christian Television Network's KNLJ in Jefferson City, Missouri and WHTN in Nashville, Tennessee. She is a pastor's wife, happily married and living in the St. Louis area. She is a humor columnist for many magazines and is the author of 12 books, 11 nonfiction--including the new co-authored project with Beth Duewel titled, FIX-HER-UPPER. She also has a brand new, super-fun fiction project co-authored with her daughter, Kaley Rhea. It's a hilarious Christian romantic comedy called, TURTLES IN THE ROAD. Rhonda says she will keep cranking the books out as long as the Lord allows. --And the psychoses hold out.


Kaley Rhea is the St. Louis-area author of Christian romantic comedy Turtles in the Road (along with mom, bud, and writing partner Rhonda Rhea) and the soon-to-release non-fiction book Messy to Meaningful: Lessons From the Junk Drawer (co-written with Rhonda Rhea and Monica Schmelter) coming this April.

Posted by AJ

A Matter of Honor By Stephanie Sullivan




Joey Landry is stuck between a rock and a hard place. After inheriting her late aunt's bed-and-breakfast inn, she has the overwhelming task of keeping the struggling business afloat while also trying to raise her twelve-year-old disabled son, Evan, on her own.

Nathan Griffin, a handsome businessman and farmer from Texas, stops by on his way through Louisiana and decides to spend a few days at the inn, despite the fact there's a hurricane brewing in the Gulf of Mexico. Joey is immediately taken with his friendliness and southern charm, but what she doesn't realize is he's been sent to spy on her by his ruthless and wealthy boss, who wants to buy Joey's property to drill for oil.

Nathan, who never wanted to take part in the deception in the first place, never expected to meet such a strong and admirable Christian woman as Joey Landry, and he certainly didn't expect to fall in love. Nathan refuses to go along with his boss' wishes, but fearing he might lose Joey, Nathan never confesses to her the false pretenses that brought him to her small town of Anders Crossing.

When Nathan's deception is revealed, Joey is devastated, but Nathan promises to do whatever it takes to become an honorable man in her eyes once again, and sometimes reclaiming your honor means risking it all - especially for the woman you love.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Matter-Honor-Christian-Romance/dp/1983073237/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1528996747&sr=1-1



As a teenager in the 1980s, Stephanie Sullivan fell in love with romance novels after borrowing a friend’s copy of Betray Not My Passion by Sylvie F. Sommerfield. This began a mail correspondence with Mrs. Sommerfield that lasted several years, and those letters of encouragement are just a few of the many reasons why she chose to pursue her lifelong dream of becoming a romance author.

She lives in Mississippi with her husband of 24 years and their two children, and when she’s not busy with her family, you can usually find her with a notebook and pen in hand, dreaming up new story ideas or working on her many freelance writing projects. Visit Stephanie online at: www.authorstephaniesullivan.com


Post by AJ

Saturday, June 23, 2018

The Mother's Day Tea By Martha Fouts





Jonah Walters used to have the perfect life, but he ruined it with his self-centered ways. Brooklyn Lee once had big dreams, but an unexpected heartbreak made those dreams impossible. Now all Jonah and Brooklyn can do is lead lives of lowered expectations. After all, what's the use of getting your hopes up when there's no chance of your dreams coming true?
The nosy pastor's wife, Maureen, is determined that Family Chapel's annual Mother's Day Tea will be better than ever this year. She's also determined that her nephew Jonah and little "Brookie" Lee will start to dream again.
With a bit of Maureen's charm and meddling, she manages to convince both Brooklyn and Jonah to help her with the upcoming tea. Will Jonah forgive himself for his past mistakes? Will Brooklyn allow God to heal her heart from her terrible loss? Will Brooklyn and Jonah open their hearts to a new dream the Lord has for them?


Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Mothers-Day-Cool-Springs-Stories/dp/1640038477/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1528996220&sr=1-1



Martha Fouts and her husband of twenty-three years, Kevin Fouts, are the lead pastors of Discovery Church in Yukon, Oklahoma. Kevin and Martha are blessed with stinky socks, a huge grocery bill, a car filled with sports equipment, lots of noise, and everything else that life with three sons brings. She has written a young adult Christian fiction novel, Cool Springs Girls, and two women’s Christian novels, Whispers and Dreams and The Mother's Day Letter, and a women’s Bible study, How to Have a Drama-Free Life. Martha believes in the value of creating art that honors the Lord and that laughter and fun are greatly underrated. Find out more about Martha and upcoming books on her website, www.marthafoutsbooks.com or check out her blog, Lovely and True on Wordpress.
Martha has TWO new books coming out in Spring of 2018 - The Mother's Day Tea and Mother's Day on Mainstreet!

Post by AJ

The Love Story By Rachel Hauck




From the New York Times bestselling author of The Wedding Dress comes a story of long-lost love and its redemption in future generations.
Romance has never been actress Chloe Daschle’s forte—in life or on screen. But everyone knows who to call for a convincing death scene . . . and it might be killing her career.
When Chloe is given a peek at the script for an epic love story, she decides to take her destiny into her own hands and request an audition for the lead female role, Esther Kingsley. The compelling tale, inspired by family lore and a one-page letter from the colonial ancestor of scriptwriter Jesse Gates, just might break her out of this career-crippling rut. Jesse would rather write about romance than live through it after his past relationship ended in disaster. But once on-set together, the chemistry between Jesse and his leading lady is hard to deny.
Centuries earlier, in the heart of the Revolutionary War, Hamilton Lightfoot and Esther Longfellow wrote their saga off the silver screen. Esther’s Loyalist father opposes any relationship with Hamilton, but Esther must face her beloved father’s disapproval and the dangers of war in order to convince Hamilton of their future together. Hamilton has loved Esther for years, and on the eve of battle pens the love letter she’s always wanted—something straight from the heart.
Set in stunning upcountry South Carolina, The Love Letter is a beautifully crafted story of the courage it takes to face down fear and chase after love, even in the darkest of times. And just maybe, all these generations later, love can come home in a way not even Hollywood could imagine.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Love-Letter-Novel-Rachel-Hauck/dp/0310351006/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1528927565&sr=1-1&keywords=the+love+letter+hauck

Rachel Hauck is a New York Times, USA Today and Wall Street Journal Bestselling author.

She is a Christy Award Winner and a double RITA finalist. Her book The Wedding Dress was named Inspirational Novel of the Year by Romantic Times Book Club.

A graduate of Ohio State University with a degree in Journalism, and a former sorority girl, Rachel and her husband live in central Florida. She is a huge Buckeyes football fan.

Visit her at www.rachelhauck.com or www.facebook.com/rachelhauck


Post by AJ

Friday, June 22, 2018

Once Upon a Farm By Rory Feek



Now raising their four-year-old daughter, Indiana, alone, after Joey’s passing, Rory Feek digs deeper into the soil of his life and the unusual choices he and his wife, Joey, made together and the ones he’s making now to lead his family into the future.
When Rory Feek and his older daughters moved into a run-down farmhouse almost twenty years ago, he had no idea of the almost fairy-tale love story that was going to unfold on that small piece of Tennessee land . . . and the lessons he and his family would learn along the way.
Now two years after Joey’s passing, as Rory takes their four-year-old daughter Indiana’s hand and walks forward into an unknown future, he takes readers on his incredible journey from heartbreak to hope and, ultimately, the kind of healing that comes only through faith.
A raw and vulnerable look deeper into Rory’s heart, Once Upon a Farm is filled with powerful stories of love, life, and hope and the insights that one extraordinary, ordinary man in bib overalls has gleamed along the way.
As opposed to homesteading, this is instead a book on lifesteading as Rory learns to cultivate faith, love, and fatherhood on a small farm while doing everything, at times, but farming. With frequent stories of his and Joey’s years together, and how those guide his life today, Rory unpacks just what it means to be open to new experiences.
“This isn’t a how-to book; it’s more of a how we, or more accurately, how He, God, planted us on a few acres of land and grew something bigger than Joey or I could have ever imagined.”

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Once-Upon-Farm-Lessons-Frontier/dp/0785216723/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1528772968&sr=1-1&keywords=once+upon+a+farm+feek&dpID=51JHur1z5XL&preST=_SY291_BO1,204,203,200_QL40_&dpSrc=srch

My name is Rory. I wear overalls most all of the time, but I’m not a farmer... yet. I love old cars, old farmhouses, old people, and pretty much anything nostalgic or that has character. I’m 51 years old on the outside and in my mid 20′s down deep. I am a believer who’s dreams have taken me places I’ve never imagined. I’m also a Believer, that has a long long way to go. I want to live a great story. I want to be a better man. I film. I write. I show up. God does the rest.

My wife: I am married to the greatest woman that I’ve ever known. Her name is Joey. She has the voice of an angel and the heart of a saint. She is why I’m me. We have been married almost 14 years and God has given us an incredible love story. Not just how we began.. but now, today... even without her here by my side. That love story is still unfolding as our hold our little one's had and turn the pages. I want to out-love and out-serve my wife, but it is impossible.

My children: I have two daughters, no wait… I have three daughters. Our two oldest, Heidi and Hopie are grown and making their way in this world. Our youngest, Indiana, is two years old and she helps me to make sense of this world. Indy has down syndrome. I think Hopie has up syndrome (she’s always happy). Heidi’s got film and music syndrome (she’s an aspiring filmmaker and singer/songwriter). All my children are good and perfect gifts from above.

My life: I live on a small farm about an hour south of Nashville Tennessee. We have two horses, some chickens, cats and a dog named Ranger. Joey and I spent the last eight years making music, traveling all over the world singing and performing for people, making a television show at home and working hard on our dreams. We took a year off in 2014 to search for something better. To simplify, and be with our family and friends, and to homestead. We don’t have a television and don’t want one. For a year, we traded our iPhones in for flip-phones and starting to talk to people again. We love our life.

My blog: I’m a songwriter who isn’t writing songs right now, so Joey encouraged me to write about our lives instead. So at the beginning of 2014, I started blogging about and filming the little and big moments in our life as they happened.. I didn’t know why at the time. I do now.

Post by AJ

This is a must read book. You are sure to love it if you have been following Joey and Rory's story.

No Less Days By Amanda Stevens




David Galloway can’t die.
How many lifetimes can God expect one man to live? Over a century old, David Galloway isolates himself from the mortal humans who die or desert him by making a quiet life as a used bookstore owner in Northern Michigan. But then he spots a news article about a man who, like him, should be dead.

Daredevil celebrity Zachary Wilson walked away unscathed from what should have been a deadly fall. David tracks the man down, needing answers. Soon David discovers a close-knit group of individuals as old as he is who offer the sort of kinship and community he hasn’t experienced for decades—but at what cost?

David finds himself keeping secrets other than his own. . .protecting more than himself alone. He’ll have to decide what’s worth the most to him—security or community. When crimes come to light that are older than any mortal, he fears the pressure is more than he can stand. What does God require of him, and is David strong enough to see it through?

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/No-Less-Days-Amanda-Stevens/dp/1683225511/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1529189611&sr=1-3



As a child, Amanda G. Stevens disparaged Mary Poppins and Stuart Little because they could never happen. Now, she writes speculative fiction. She is the author of the Haven Seekers series, and her debut Seek and Hide was a 2015 INSPY Award finalist. She lives in Michigan and loves trade paperbacks, folk music, the Golden Era of Hollywood, and white cheddar popcorn.

My Thoughts...

I was excited to read No Less Days when I received it because I heard a lot of god things about it. The characters were strong and the plot was strong. I did have trouble stayng interested. To me the book was extremely slow. At  times it seemed that the book ws going to pick up but t slowed back down. It you can hold on until around the middle of the book it gets better. I just don't care to read half a book before  the stories gets really interesting.
This was read and reviewed by AJ.
I gave this book 3 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.

Thursday, June 21, 2018

The Kindness Effect By Jill Donovan



What if you had the power to rewrite a line in someone's chapter?

In 2004, Jill Donovan's guest appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show ignited a change within her heart that would have a ripple effect on thousands of lives.

Now, with her own nationally known jewelry business, Donovan knows a thing or two about the power in passing gifts from one person to another.

This is not a how-to-guide on exercising kindness. It is also not just the story of Donovan's business, Rustic Cuff. This book shows what happens when you give generously to others, pursue your dreams and never give up.

For Rustic Cuff creator Jill Donovan, it's not about the bracelet. It's about the connection that is made between two people in gift giving. Within the pages of this book are the experiences that inspired her most popular bracelets, now worn by celebrities such as Miranda Lambert, Gayle King, and Kristin Chenowith. The Kindness Effect gives you a glimpse into how this practicing attorney transformed her handmade cuffs into a flourishing business. Now a sought-after motivational speaker who encourages women to pursue their passions, Donovan often recites her favorite quote: "Don't compare your chapter 1 with someone else's chapter 20." Be inspired by this regifting movement, and discover the power in generous giving for a fulfilling journey through life. 


Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Kindness-Effect-Experience-Irrational-Giving/dp/1629991791/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1528928379&sr=1-1&keywords=the+kindness+effect+by+jill+donovan&dpID=51s-I5yBfcL&preST=_SY291_BO1,204,203,200_QL40_&dpSrc=srch



Jill Donovan was born in Baltimore, Maryland; was raised in Pensacola, Florida; and graduated from Oral Roberts University, in Tulsa, Oklahoma where she met her husband, Terry. She went on to get her law degree from the University of Tulsa and was a practicing attorney and adjunct law professor at TU law school when Rustic Cuff was born. She taught herself how to make cuffs and gifted them to friends and family. Today, Rustic Cuff jewelry is sold in more than 250 stores across the country. The brand has been featured on many national TV shows including Good Morning America, The Today Show, E! News and The View. When not working, Donovan enjoys spending time with her daughter’s, Ireland 13, and Peanut, 9.

As someone who is always giving, I think this was a book worth reading and sharing.
 It is a biblically sound book and has tons of  great information in it.
Pick up and extra copy to GIVE to someone you love.

Post By AJ

Wednesday, June 20, 2018

The Rancher's Surprise Daughter By Jill Lynn



A reunion he never expected…
In this
Colorado Grooms novel

Luc Wilder’s surprised when his ex-girlfriend Cate Malory arrives at his Colorado guest ranch. And he’s downright stunned when she introduces him to his three-year-old daughter, Ruby. Bonding with the bubbly little girl is easy—Ruby loves ranch life, just like her daddy. But after all the secrets, can Luc and Cate find a way to trust in each other again?

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Ranchers-Surprise-Daughter-Colorado-Grooms/dp/1335509666/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1528773495&sr=1-1&keywords=the+rancher%27s+surprise+daughter&dpID=51hcNy6tL0L&preST=_SY291_BO1,204,203,200_QL40_&dpSrc=srch


Welcome! I’m Jill. Award-winning author, hot mess, loud laugher and coffee addict. I write small-town stories filled with grace, humor and happily ever after. I also co-authored Just Show Up with Kara Tippetts—a book about how to support one another during hardships.

Post by AJ

Tuesday, June 19, 2018

Three Shoeboxes By Steven Manchester GIVEAWAY!



Mac Anderson holds life in the palm of his hand. He has a beautiful wife, three loving children, a comfortable home, and a successful career. Everything is perfect―or so it seems. Tragically, Mac is destined to learn that any sense of security can quickly prove false. Because an invisible enemy called Post Traumatic Stress Disorder has invaded Mac's fragile mind and it is about to drop him to his knees. He does all he can to conceal his inner chaos, but to no avail. Left to contend with ignorance, an insensitive justice system, and the struggles of an invisible disease, he loses everything―most importantly his family.
One shoebox might store an old pair of sneakers. Two shoeboxes might contain a lifetime of photographs. But in Three Shoeboxes, a father's undying love may be just enough to make things right again.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Three-Shoeboxes-Steven-Manchester/dp/1611882605/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1529188733&sr=8-1




Steven Manchester is the author of the #1 bestsellers Twelve Months, The Rockin' Chair, Pressed Pennies and Gooseberry Island, as well as the national bestsellers Ashes and The Changing Season, and the multi-award winning novels, Goodnight, Brian and The Thursday Night Club. He has written A Christmas Wish (Kindle exclusive), Wilbur Avenue (novelette), and Just in Time (novelette) while his work has appeared on NBC's Today Show, CBS's The Early Show, CNN's American Morning and BET's Nightly News. Three of Steven's short stories were selected "101 Best" for Chicken Soup for the Soul series and he is the produced playwright of Three Shoeboxes. When not spending time with his beautiful wife, Paula, or their four children, this Massachusetts author is promoting his works or writing. Visit: www.StevenManchester.com

Post by AJ

Monday, June 18, 2018

How to be the Perfect Christian ByThe Babylon Bee




With a biting, satirical style reminiscent of The OnionHow to Be a Perfect Christian takes a humorous look at the quirks of cultural Christianity while subtly challenging the reader to search for more than a cultural faith.Written in the trademark style of The Babylon Bee, this book humorously satirizes cultural Christianity while peppering in subtle challenges to the reader. Through humor and sarcasm (and a handy meter to rank your "holiness" as you progress through the book), readers will be called to find a more biblical understanding of the Christian faith, all while poking fun at the quirks of the modern, American Christian community.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/How-Perfect-Christian-Comprehensive-Spiritual/dp/0735291527/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1529200109&sr=8-2&keywords=how+to+be+a+perfect+christian+babylon+bee



My Thoughts...

I must admit that I was unsure about this book at first. My fears were laid to rest pretty quickly when I started to read. This is one hilarious read. I think we as Christians should learn how to laugh and not be to serious all the time. I caught myself laughing out loud many times while reading. With the funny stuff to the side the book has a bit of truth to it. Unfortunately some of the things in this book describes some people's walk with God. I recommend this book But I must warn you that you shouldn't read this one in a library you may get kicked out for being to loud.
This book was read and reviewed by AJ.
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.

Where the Fire Falls By Karen Barnett GIVEAWAY!




Stunning Yosemite National Park sets the stage for this late 1920s historical romance with mystery, adventure, heart, and a sense of the place John Muir described as "pervaded with divine light."Watercolorist Olivia Rutherford has shed her humble beginnings to fashion her image as an avant-garde artist to appeal to the region's wealthy art-collectors. When she lands a lucrative contract painting illustrations of Yosemite National Park for a travel magazine, including its nightly one-of-a-kind Firefall event, she hopes the money will lift Olivia and her sisters out of poverty.

    After false accusations cost him everything, former minister Clark Johnson has found purpose as a backcountry guide in this natural cathedral of granite and trees. Now he's faced with the opportunity to become a National Parks Ranger, but is it his true calling?

    As Clark opens Olivia's eyes to the wonders of Yosemite, she discovers the people are as vital to the park's story as its vistas--a revelation that may bring her charade to an end.


Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Where-Fire-Falls-Vintage-National/dp/0735289565/ref=sr_1_1_twi_pap_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1529189008&sr=1-1&keywords=where+the+fire+falls+by+karen+barnett&dpID=51WDyQtR0QL&preST=_SY291_BO1,204,203,200_QL40_&dpSrc=srch




Karen Barnett is the award-winning author of The Golden Gate Chronicles (Out of the Ruins, Beyond the Ashes, and Through the Shadows) and Mistaken. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband, two kids, and three mischievous dachshunds. When she's not writing, Karen enjoys photography, hiking, public speaking, decorating crazy birthday cakes, and dragging her family through dusty history museums. Oregon Christian Writers (OCW) honored her with the Writer of Promise Award in 2013 and a Cascade Award for her debut novel, Mistaken, in 2014. In 2016, she was named Writer of the Year by the prestigious Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference. Karen is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and Oregon Christian Writers (OCW) and has been published in Guideposts and other national magazines.

Post by AJ

Saturday, June 16, 2018

Tiny Bible Tales 2 book GIVEAWAY! By W.C. Bauers



Tiny Bible Tales, a series of board books, shares the stories of the Bible's bravest heroes with gentle, rhyming text and gorgeous illustrations.When Daniel is thrown into the lion's den, it will take all of his prayer and faith to save him. This board book combines quiet, rhyming text with simple and colorful art to tell one of the Bible's most treasured stories.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Daniel-Lions-Tiny-Bible-Tales/dp/1524785962/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1528927942&sr=1-1&keywords=Tiny+Bible+tales+Daniel+And+the+Lions%27+den




To save baby Moses, Miriam and her mother place him in a basket and set him adrift on the river. As Miriam watches from the reeds, she hopes that someone will find and rescue him. And someone does--Pharaoh's daughter! This board book combines quiet, rhyming text with simple and colorful art to tell one of the Bible's most treasured stories.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Miriam-Pharaohs-Daughter-Bible-Tales/dp/1524785946/ref=pd_bxgy_14_img_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=1524785946&pd_rd_r=005de01e-6f57-11e8-9cbc-d19d5eec9285&pd_rd_w=u5yfh&pd_rd_wg=xc4mj&pf_rd_i=desktop-dp-sims&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=3914568618330124508&pf_rd_r=P2WC810MHEH95Y73FZ0Z&pf_rd_s=desktop-dp-sims&pf_rd_t=40701&psc=1&refRID=P2WC810MHEH95Y73FZ0Z


Post by AJ

Before I Saw You By Amy Sorrells GIVEAWAY!




Folks are dying fast as the ash trees in the southern Indiana town ravaged by the heroin epidemic, where Jaycee Givens lives with nothing more than a thread of hope and a quirky neighbor, Sudie, who rescues injured wildlife. After a tragedy leaves her mother in prison, Jaycee is carrying grief and an unplanned pregnancy she conceals because she trusts no one, including the kind and handsome Gabe, who is new to town and to the local diner where she works.

Dividing her time between the diner and Sudie’s place, Jaycee nurses her broken heart among a collection of unlikely friends who are the closest thing to family that she has. Eventually, she realizes she can’t hide her pregnancy any longer―not even from the baby’s abusive father, who is furious when he finds out. The choices she must make for the safety of her unborn child threaten to derail any chance she ever had for hope and redemption. Ultimately, Jaycee must decide whether the truest form of love means hanging on or letting go.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Before-Saw-You-Amy-Sorrells/dp/1496409566/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1528995906&sr=8-1


Amy K. Sorrells is a long-time believer in the power of story to change lives. Her diverse writing career includes more than two decades of freelance writing, including medical journal publications and a popular op-ed newspaper column. The driving mission behind all her writing is to bring words of hope to a hurting world. Praised by reviewers for the way they both poetically and accurately portray real-life hardship and hope, Amy's novels are inspired by social issues that break her heart and the Bible stories that reflect God's response to those issues. Her first novel, How Sweet the Sound, was a response to her personal questions about how God redeems the pain of sexual abuse. How Sweet the Sound won the 2011 Women of Faith Writing Contest. Since then, she has published two more novels, Then Sings My Soul and Lead Me Home. Amy's novels have been short-listed for various fiction awards. In addition to being a writer, Amy is also grateful to be a practicing registered nurse at a busy suburban hospital. She loves doting on her husband, three young-adult sons, and their golden retrievers at their home in central Indiana. If there's leftover time after that, she enjoys up-cycling, gardening, binge reading, exercising, and Bible journaling.

Connect with Amy at amyksorrells.com, or find her on Facebook (@amyksorrells), Twitter (@amysorrells), and Instagram (@amyksorrells).

Post by AJ

Friday, June 15, 2018

The Faith of Dolly Parton By Dudley Delffs



Dolly Parton has entertained, educated, and inspired millions of fans for over five decades. Whether she’s writing songs, performing live, recording new albums, acting in or producing new movies and TV programs, expanding her wildly successful Dollywood amusement park, helping children around the world learn to read with her Imagination Library nonprofit, or donating millions of dollars to schools, charities, and people in need, the Queen of Country Music has never been shy about crediting her Christian faith for her success.
“A belief in God is essential,” Dolly shares. “You have to believe in something bigger than yourself. We grew up believing that through God all things are possible.” Growing up in the little mountain church where her grandfather preached, Dolly started singing hymns and playing guitar at services when she was only six. Consequently, she has never been shy about discussing her faith and relationship with God. “People say, ‘Well, I am surprised that you talk about your faith,’ and I say, ‘Why not? That’s who I am. That’s what keeps me going,’” she explains.
Tennessee native, Dolly fanboy, and award-winning writer Dudley Delffs now spotlights ten faith lessons as evidenced in Dolly’s life, music, interviews, and attitude. The Faith of Dolly Parton focuses on the ways Dolly’s life can inspire us all to be more authentic, to trust God during hard times, to stay grounded during the good times, and to always keep our sense of humor. Sometimes poignant, sometimes funny, frequently surprising, and always true to Dolly’s down-home spirit of joyful generosity, this book will delight her millions of fans as well as anyone seeking a fresh faith-filled role model.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Faith-Dolly-Parton-Lessons-Heart/dp/0310352924/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1528931775&sr=1-1-spons&keywords=the+faith+of+dolly+parton&psc=1



Dudley J. Delffs, Ph.D. is an award-winning writer of fiction and non-fiction. A former publishing executive with divisions of Random House and HarperCollins, Dudley now works with top-tier authors, agents, and publishers to produce bestselling books with life-changing impact. A lifelong fan of Dolly Parton, Dudley lives in Sewanee, Tennessee with his wife and children.

With us being such big fans of Dolly and her giving heart, reading this book was such a treat.
I love that it is a positive and inspiring book.
Author Delffs  did a wonderful job with this book.
I gave this book 4.5 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.

Post by AJ

Thursday, June 14, 2018

Nighty Night and Good Night By Michael W. Smith GIVEAWAY!




Nighty Night and Good Night is the first book in a series of bedtime books by multiple Grammy and Dove Award-winning recording artist Michael W. Smith and VeggieTales co-creator Mike Nawrocki. In Nighty Night and Good Night, the stuffed animal band the Nighty Nights are called upon to help their friend Ben try to fall to sleep. This cute and sleepy adventure leads Lamby, Bear, and Sleepy Puppy to discover that a classic lullaby might just do the trick.
This book includes a link that allows readers to listen to Michael W. Smith sing the same lullaby that helps put Ben to sleep.
Founded by Michael W. Smith, Nurturing Steps is an infant and toddler series of children’s music and books with a simple mission to enliven a child’s journey with hope and faith through music and storytelling.
The cover of Nighty Night and Good Night includes an adorable image of the Nighty Nights and a title that shines with foil.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Nighty-Night-Good-Nurturing-Steps/dp/0310767016/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1528926925&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=nighty+night+and+good+night&psc=1


Michael W. Smith is a successful recording artist who has recorded more than 25 albums and had numerous hit radio songs in the Christian and General markets. He’s won numerous Grammy and Dove Awards and is the founder of Rocketown, an outreach to teenagers in a 38,000 square-foot facility in downtown Nashville, Tennessee. He is involved in mission work around the world. He has also written several best-selling books, including Old Enough To Know and Friends Are Friends Forever. He and his wife, Debbie, have five children and live in Nashville.

Such a cute children's book.
Post by AJ

Breasts: The Owners Manual By Dr. Kristi Funk





National Bestseller
Most women don’t want to hear about breast cancer unless they have it and need to make some decisions, but these days news about breast cancer—the number one killer of women ages twenty to fifty-nine—is everywhere. Hope for a cure abounds. Celebrities have come forward to share their experiences and raise awareness. Chances are you know someone who has had it.
But did you know that you make choices every day that bring you closer to breast cancer—or move you farther away? That in the majority of cases, cancer isn’t up to fate, and there are ways to reduce your risk factors? That many of the things you’ve heard regarding the causes of breast cancer are flat-out false?
There have been few solid guidelines on how to improve your breast health, lower your risk of getting cancer, optimize your outcomes if you’re faced with a diagnosis, and make informed medical choices after treatment. Until now.
Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Breasts-Reducing-Treatment-Optimizing-Outcomes/dp/0785218726/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1528573028&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=breasts+the+owner%27s+manual+kristi+funk&psc=1



Dr. Kristi Funk is a board-certified breast surgeon who, alongside her husband, Andy Funk, cofounded the Pink Lotus Breast Center in Los Angeles.  She has helped thousands of women through breast cancer treatment, including well-known celebrities like Angelina Jolie and Sheryl Crow.  Dr. Funk is a frequent cohost on The Doctors and breast expert on Good Morning America, and has appeared on The View, Today, The Dr. Oz Show, CNN, and numerous other national and local television and news shows.  She lives in Southern California with her husband and triplet sons. 


Post By AJ

Wednesday, June 13, 2018

Buried Secrets By Barbara Cameron




Family secrets could get in the way of a second chance at loveAfter her husband dies, Rose longs to be near her family—especially her twin sister, Lillian—so she packs up her young son and leaves their life in Ohio to move back to Paradise, Pennsylvania.

Luke Miller is ready to settle down in Paradise. He soon forms a partnership with Rose to help farm her land. He finds that he's enjoying the company of the quiet, modest widow and she may be just the woman he's been waiting for. But is Rose hiding a secret beneath her reserved exterior—one that could keep her from having a future with Luke?

And Rose isn't the only one concealing something. Luke has a secret of his own, and it could threaten their partnership—and their chance at love.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Buried-Secrets-Harvest-Barbara-Cameron/dp/1683700570/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1528772277&sr=8-1&keywords=buried+secrets+barbara+cameron&dpID=51w8ypXfdGL&preST=_SY291_BO1,204,203,200_QL40_&dpSrc=srch

 
Barbara Cameron has a heart for writing about the spiritual values and simple
joys of the Amish. She is the best-selling author of more than 40 fiction and
nonfiction books, three nationally televised movies, and the winner of the first
Romance Writers of America Golden Heart Award. Her books have been
nominated for Carol Awards and the Inspirational Reader's Choice Award from
RWA's Faith, Hope, and Love chapter. Barbara resides in Jacksonville, Florida.

Post by AJ

Tuesday, June 12, 2018

Just Let Go By Courtney Walsh




For Quinn Collins, buying the flower shop in downtown Harbor Pointe fulfills a childhood dream, but also gives her the chance to stick it to her mom, who owned the store before skipping town twenty years ago and never looking back. Completing much-needed renovations, however, while also competing for a prestigious flower competition with her mother as the head judge, soon has Quinn in over her head. Not that she’d ever ask for help.

Luckily, she may not need to. Quinn’s father and his meddling friends find the perfect solution in notorious Olympic skier Grady Benson, who had only planned on passing through the old-fashioned lakeside town. But when a heated confrontation leads to property damage, helping Quinn as a community-service sentence seems like the quickest way out―and the best way to avoid more negative press.

Quinn finds Grady reckless and entitled; he thinks she’s uptight and too regimented. Yet as the two begin to hammer and saw, Quinn sees glimpses of the vulnerability behind the bravado, and Grady learns from her passion and determination, qualities he seems to have lost along the way. But when a well-intentioned omission has devastating consequences, Grady finds himself cast out of town―and Quinn’s life―possibly forever. Forced to face the hurt holding her back, Quinn must finally let go or risk missing out on the adventure of a lifetime.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Just-Let-Go-Courtney-Walsh/dp/1496421523/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1524787431&sr=8-1&keywords=just+let+go+courtney+walsh&dpID=51A1RXAXw%252BL&preST=_SY291_BO1,204,203,200_QL40_&dpSrc=srch


Courtney Walsh is a novelist, artist, theater director, and playwright. Change of Heart is her fifth novel and is set in the same town as Paper Hearts. Her debut novel, A Sweethaven Summer, hit the New York Times and USA Today e-book bestseller lists and was a Carol Award finalist in the debut author category. She has written two additional books in the Sweethaven series, as well as two craft books and several full-length musicals. Courtney lives in Illinois where she and her husband own a performing and visual arts studio. They have three children.

Connect with Courtney online at her website (courtneywalshwrites.com) or on any of these social media platforms:

Facebook.com/courtneywalshwrites
Instagram.com/courtneywalsh
Twitter.com/courtney_walsh

My Thoughts...

I fell in love with this book. As always Walsh has given us a sweet romance that we will not soon forget.
I am not a ski slop person, but the flower shop was right up my alley.
I loved the tension  and the happily ever after.
All I can say is this is a must read 4 star book that I recommend.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Post By AJ

Monday, June 11, 2018

The Hawaiian Discovery By Wanda Brunstetter & Jean Brunstetter




An Amish Woman Finds Love in Hawaii Ellen Lambright mourned when her best friend, Mandy, moved from Indiana to Hawaii. But now Ellen has received the Amish church’s permission to go to Hawaii and help Mandy through challenging times. Rob Smith works on the Williams family’s organic farm, far from his past mistakes and burning regrets. When Ellen befriends Rob, the attraction is mutual, but her commitment to the Amish faith stands between them. Could a heartfelt discovery lead to forgiveness, reunion, and love? Or is Ellen’s destiny waiting for her in Indiana?

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Hawaiian-Discovery-Wanda-Brunstetter/dp/1683224477/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1524097010&sr=1-1&keywords=the+hawaiian+discovery+wanda+brunstetter


Wanda Brunstetter is an award-winning romance novelist who has led millions of readers to lose their heart in the Amish life. She is the author of almost 90 books with more than 10 million copies sold. Many of her books have landed on the top bestseller lists, including the New York Times, USA Today, Publisher's Weekly, CBA, ECPA, and CBD. Wanda is considered one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre, and her work has been covered by national publications, including Time Magazine and USA Today.

Wanda's fascination with the Amish culture developed when she met her husband, Richard, who grew up in a Mennonite church, and whose family has a Pennsylvania Dutch heritage. Meeting her new Mennonite sister-in-laws caused Wanda to yearn for the simpler life. In their travels, she and her husband have become close friends with many Amish people across America. Wanda's desire to explore their culture increased when she discovered that her great-great grandparents were part of the Anabaptist faith.

All of Wanda's novels are based on personal research intended to accurately portray the Amish way of life. Many of her books are well-read and trusted by the Amish, who credit her for giving readers a deeper understanding of the people and their customs.

Wanda's primary attraction to the Amish is their desire to live a devout Christian life that strives to honor God, work hard, and maintain close family ties. Whenever she visits her Amish friends, Wanda finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and close family ties, which is in stark contrast to the chaos and busyness that plagues so many modern "Englishers." Time and time again, Wanda loses her heart in the Amish life, and she hopes her readers will, too. For more information, visit: www.WandaBrunstetter.com

My Thoughts...

I love a great love story, and I really love Hawaii so this book was right up my alley.
I read this in one sitting it was by far the best sequel I have read in a very long time.
I laughed, I cried and I was so full of joy.
This was written with so much love and how in the world two people write one book that makes sense and fits together so well I will never know.
You do NOT want to miss this 5 star book. It can be read as a stand alone but please read the first book  The Hawaiian Quilt you will be so glad that you did.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Post By AJ

Sunday, June 10, 2018

The Road Home By Beverly Lewis




Sent from Michigan to Pennsylvania following the tragic death of her Amish parents, Lena Rose Schwartz grieves her loss and the separation from her nine siblings. Beside the fact that Lena has never been so far from home, she hasn't met the family she will now be living with. But worse than that is having to live apart from her close-knit brothers and sisters. How will they manage without her to care for them--especially six-year-old Chris? And will her new beau, Hans Bontrager, continue to court her despite the many miles between them?

Yet even as Lena Rose holds on to hope for a reunion with those she loves most, she discovers that Lancaster holds charms of its own. Is she willing to open her heart to new possibilities?

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Road-Home-Beverly-Lewis/dp/0764219677/ref=cm_cr_othr_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

I've had my nose in a book, for as long as I remember. When I was about 9 years old, I started writing my own stories. By sixth grade, I'd hand-written a 66-page semi-autobiographical book titled, "She Shall Have Music."

After I was married and our three children were in middle school, I began submitting articles and short fiction to various magazines.

My first book (Holly's First Love) was published in May 1993, the start of a 14-book series for pre-teen girls. Soon after, my first chapter book was published for 7-10-year-old readers ("Big Bad Beans") which later became part of my 24-book series, The Cul-de-Sac Kids. I wrote another long-running series for girls, titled "SummerHill Secrets," which was set very close to Neffsville, PA, where I grew up--near the heart of Amish country.

But it was the story of my grandmother Ada Buchwalter's shunning by her ultra-strict father and subsequently her old order Mennonite community that nudged me toward writing adult fiction. THE SHUNNING was published in 1997 by Bethany House Publishers, and along with its sequels, has touched a nerve in millions of readers intrigued by the Plain tradition of Lancaster County, PA. Many readers have enjoyed the Hallmark Channel's adaptation of this book and the other books in the Heritage of Lancaster County series.

My passion for Amish-related stories continues to keep me up at night, and I've written over three dozen novels for adults set in Lancaster County.

When I'm between writing deadlines, I enjoy hiking in the Rocky Mountains with my husband. Cooking from scratch, playing Mozart at the piano, and making family memory albums, as well as traveling to meet my devoted readers during book tours, are some of my very favorite things. I also adore reading biographies and memoirs, as well as classic literature.



Post By AJ