Sunday, September 30, 2018

GOOD LUCK WITH THAT By Kristan Higgins GIVEAWAY!





Emerson, Georgia, and Marley have been best friends ever since they met at a weight-loss camp as teens. When Emerson tragically passes away, she leaves one final wish for her best friends: to conquer the fears they still carry as adults.

For each of them, that means something different. For Marley, it's coming to terms with the survivor's guilt she's carried around since her twin sister's death, which has left her blind to the real chance for romance in her life. For Georgia, it's about learning to stop trying to live up to her mother's and brother's ridiculous standards, and learning to accept the love her ex-husband has tried to give her.

But as Marley and Georgia grow stronger, the real meaning of Emerson's dying wish becomes truly clear: more than anything, she wanted her friends to love themselves.

A novel of compassion and insight, Good Luck With That tells the story of two women who learn to embrace themselves just the way they are.

PICK UP YOUR COPY HERE...
https://www.amazon.com/Good-Luck-That-Kristan-Higgins/dp/045148939X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1538341173&sr=8-1&keywords=good+luck+with+that+Higgins

Kristan Higgins is the New York Times, USA TODAY, Wall Street Journal and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of 18 novels, which have been translated into more than two dozen languages and have sold millions of copies worldwide. Her books have received dozens of awards and accolades, including starred reviews from Kirkus, The New York Journal of Books, Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and Booklist. She is a five-time nominee for The Kirkus Prize for Best Work of Fiction, and her books regularly appear on the lists for best novels of the year of many prestigious journals and review sites. If you want to keep up with Kristan's new releases and get a free short story, sign up for her mailing list at www.kristanhiggins.com.

The proud descendant of a butcher and a laundress, Kristan lives in Connecticut with her heroic firefighter husband, two long-lashed children, a couple of frisky rescue dogs and an occasionally friendly cat.


My Thoughts...

 I never post reviews on my blog about books that I have bought. But I am making an exception for this book.
First book that I have ever read by Higgins, I just had to have something to read and picked it up at the grocery  store having no idea what I was getting into.
I sat down when I got home opened it up and read it until the very last page. I did NOT cook or clean that evening!
Friendship, loving your self just like you are. This book had a message ALL women need to read. Self image, loving yourself just as you are! Powerful, fun, fabulous, unforgettable read! 
I will tell you this is a five star book two times!
I HIGHLY recommend this book.
I want to giveaway a copy to one of my faithful followers and I will also send you a $25 Amazon gift card to get another one of Higgins books!


Be sure that you are following this blog and leave a comment to be entered in the GIVEAWAY!

Thursday, September 27, 2018

Popular in Heaven Famous in Hell By R. T. Kendall




FEATURES AND BENEFITS
  • Balanced teaching on heaven and hell, good and evil, and the effect our lives have on both realms
  • Insights to help readers access God’s purpose and plan so they can live truly meaningful lives
Would you risk your reputation to find out what is pleasing to God?
The greatest thing that can ever be said about a person is that he or she pleased God. But while pleasing God makes you popular in heaven, it may not make you popular on earth. Do you have the temptation to be well received here on earth? Do you make spiritual decisions based upon what people will think of you?
Going a step further, have you considered whether you have any reputation in hell? Are you living the kind of life that causes a threat to Satan’s interests? That’s how you become famous in hell.

It’s time to stop valuing your reputation with people more than your reputation with God. Start living your life with eternity in mind. Respected theologian and author R. T. Kendall has written this book to help you discover the keys to living a life that truly pleases God, making you not only popular in heaven, but also famous in hell.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Popular-Heaven-Famous-Hell-Terrifies/dp/1629995517/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1538054113&sr=8-1&keywords=popular+in+heaven+famous+in+hell



R. T. Kendall was the pastor of Westminster Chapel in London, England, for twenty-five years. Born in Ashland, Kentucky, he was educated at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (MDiv) and Oxford University (DPhil). Dr. Kendall is the author of more than sixty books, including Total Forgiveness; Holy Fire; Pigeon Religion: Holy Spirit, Is That You?; The Sensitivity of the Spirit; Grace; and The Anointing: Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow.

My Thoughts...

 People pleasers this is the book for you.
The author wants you to stop trying to please people and start pleasing God. He makes this point many times.
This is a convicting read, so if you don't want your toes stepped on then pass it up. But you are up to a challenge you r are going to really find it in this book.
I gave this book 4 stars and I challenge you to pick up a copy and start making changes now.
 The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Sunday, September 23, 2018

This is the Day By Tim Tebow




The New York Times best-selling sports star and media icon motivates readers to stop postponing dreams and start making them happen now because--this is the day.Beyond Tim Tebow's exploits as a Heisman-winning football player, he is widely known and respected for his exemplary character and personal excellence, which have made him a role model for millions. When Tim interacts with the public, he often encounters people who feel "stuck"--unable to take action on matters ranging from daily life to pursuing lifelong dreams. In response, Tim often identifies a crippling fear or lack of courage, to which he advises: "now is the time to take some risks, to quiet the voices of defeat, to step forward and make a mark, because this is the day." In this inspiring, motivational book, readers will receive the advice and encouragement to daily move from "pause" to "play" in finding deeper meaning and success. Tim illustrates the book's themes with stories from his personal life that will delight all readers, including his an update on his dream pursuit of a baseball career.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/052565030X?pf_rd_p=d1f45e03-8b73-4c9a-9beb-4819111bef9a&pf_rd_r=5NBV6AXEQ1QDKDG3MHQ9


TIM TEBOW is a two-time national college football champion, Heisman Trophy winner, first-round NFL draft pick, ESPN contributor, and professional baseball outfielder with the New York Mets. He is the author of the New York Times bestseller Shaken, which was named the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association’s 2017 Book of the Year. Tim’s true passion remains the work of the Tim Tebow Foundation which he began in 2010. The foundation’s mission is to bring Faith, Hope, and Love to those needing a brighter day in their darkest hour of need. The foundation fulfills this mission everyday by serving thousands of deserving children around the world.

My Thoughts...

I love Tebow's first book, so I was excited about his next one.
This is what I call an on time book. I needed this book and it came at just the right time.
Such an encouraging read.
This is the Day, you can change and you can see what God sees in you.
Tebow has a way with his words and he speaks truth.
I hope that everyone I know gets a copy of this book and reads it and takes it to heart and listens to what it says.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Wednesday, September 19, 2018

Second-Chance Dogs





Everyone loves an underdog, and nothing gives us warmer feelings than seeing someone get a second chance in life. A problem pup who flourishes under the right kind of training. The struggling veteran who finds unconditional love wiggling around at the end of a leash. The lonely child who finds comfort in the steady breathing of the warm, furry friend at her side. Each of us needs to be rescued from something--and each of us has the capacity to rescue someone, or something, else.

This collection of more than thirty contemporary, true, feel-good stories spotlights the beauty of being rescued--dogs rescued by people, people rescued by dogs, and even dogs who rescue other animals. It's the perfect companion--well, besides the four-legged, tail-wagging kind--for your morning cup of coffee or an evening curled up on the couch. Contributors include Susy Flory, Dusty Rainbolt, Lauraine Snelling, Melody Carlson, Wanda Dyson, Suzanne Woods Fisher, and many more.


Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Second-Chance-Dogs-True-Stories-Rescue/dp/0800727134/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1537146080&sr=8-1&keywords=second+chance+dogs


My Thoughts...

I'm a dog lover, so this book was going on my to be read pile no doubt.
I loved all the stories and I was not disappointed one time.
I am a huge fan of Melody Carlson's books so when I got to her story in this book I was so excited her story was by far the best and I loved it.
I gave this book 4 stars and I hope all the dog lovers in my life will read 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.

Tuesday, September 18, 2018

Hope Your Heart Needs By Holley Gerth



Understanding more of God's character and how he loves us changed bestselling author Holley Gerth's life in beautiful, powerful ways. She realized that she didn't have to settle for "I'm fine" when there was someone whispering to her in every moment, "You're mine." The hope, joy, peace, and purpose she longed for were already there, in the heart of God.

Now in 52 devotional readings, Holley shares with women the answer to the restlessness they feel in their hearts that keeps them hurrying, striving, pushing. She shows them that "the God who scattered stars like diamonds across the velvet of the universe, the keeper of every sparrow, the maker of us all, is inviting us to draw closer to him. He is the place where our hearts can go on the hard days and the happy ones, in the highs and lows, when we are sad or frustrated or downright giddy. He is what we've been searching for all along."

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Hope-Your-Heart-Needs-Encouraging/dp/0800729544/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1537145228&sr=1-1


Holley Gerth is a best-selling writer, licensed counselor, certified life coach and speaker. She is cofounder of (in)courage, an online destination for women, which received more than one million page views in its first six months. She also reaches out to readers through her popular blog at www.holleygerth.com and a partnership with DaySpring. Holley lives in the South with her husband, Mark.

My Thoughts...
I love Gerth's books always so full of wisdom and positive affirmation.
She has away to bring out all the positive and good things in us.
This would make a great gift for your friends, co workers or someone you run it to in the store.
I love it and I am getting tons of copies for those I love.
5 stars and HIGHLY recommended.
 The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Monday, September 17, 2018

The Giving Challenge By Stephanie Jones



A simple challenge for a richer life What began as a New Year's resolution, a challenge to give a daily gift for a month, thrust Stephanie into an adventure--from befriending a crying stranger at the airport to giving away a pencil collection she started as a child.

One month turned into 500 days, and five years later Stephanie's daily giving is a way of life, changing her in ways she never imagined.

The Giving Challenge inspires you to focus on others for forty days. What you'll discover will surprise you and delight others!

Stephanie shares some of her favorite gifts and stories from her journey, including stories from people like you, who dared to dream about the power of giving, and put their dreams into action.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Giving-Challenge-Stephanie-L-Jones/dp/1512752649/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1536516610&sr=8-1&keywords=the+giving+challenge+book

Hi! I’m Stephanie

I love giving. I gave a gift every day for over 500 days and it changed my life. During my giving journey I received the Cisco Humanitarian Award and volunteered 100+ hours in one year. Check out my book, The Giving Challenge: 40 Days to a More Generous Life.

I love speaking. I got the bug in college when I spoke at local churches, sharing experiences from a Honduran mission trip. At 25, as Indiana Director of Victim of Services, I spoke at conferences, on television, and radio. I haven't shut up since. See my speaking page for details.

I love writing. My writing career started as a grant writer for the Indiana State Police, bringing in over $37 million dollars. I learned written words have power and can change lives. I blogged about my 500 days of giving, which led to my first book, The Giving Challenge: 40 Days to a More Generous Life.

I love aiming and shooting. In 2000, I showed up at the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy to become a State Trooper. After thirteen weeks of grueling training, I was devastated when I failed firearms. I had no plan B, but God had a plan and three years later, I would marry a fellow recruit.

I love those in law enforcement. I was raised by a police officer and learned to respect these people. I became an officer in 2007, graduating as president and top of my academy class. Remember I failed firearms in 2000? Well, in 2007, I qualified as a distinguished expert! I’m also a police wife. My unique experiences put me in a position to be an advocate for police officers, and their families.

I Dream, Discover, and Do! I not only love dreaming, but I love taking action, making my dreams a reality and helping others to do the same. I’ve traveled to 46 states, attended Oprah’s Oscar show in LA, auditioned for my own TLC show in NYC, and the list goes on.

I want to help you live your Dream, Discover your gifts, and Do amazing things.

My Thoughts...

Are you ready for a book that challenges you? If you are like me a giver then this is a book for you to give to a friend.
I love the challenges at the end of each chapter. One was buy a gift just because for a friend. I do that all the time and it makes me feel so good. It is better then a birthday gift or a Christmas gift in my opinion.
I hope that you give this book a read and take it to heart.
Give The Giving Challenge  as a gift you might just change someone's life. 
I recommend this 4 star read (challenge).
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Sunday, September 16, 2018

Squirm By Carl Hiaasen





Newbery Honor-winning and #1 New York Times bestselling author Carl Hiaasen--beloved for his modern classics like Hoot and Chomp--delivers a wildly entertaining novel involving snakes, grizzlies, a missing dad, a menacing drone, and more!Some facts about Billy Dickens:
  *  He once saw a biker swerve across the road in order to run over a snake.
  *  Later, that motorcycle somehow ended up at the bottom of a canal.
  *  Billy isn't the type to let things go.

Some facts about Billy's family:
  *  They've lived in six different Florida towns because Billy's mom insists on getting a house near a bald eagle nest.
  *  Billy's dad left when he was four and is a total mystery.
  *  Billy has just found his dad's address--in Montana.

This summer, Billy will fly across the country, hike a mountain, float a river, dodge a grizzly bear, shoot down a spy drone, save a neighbor's cat, save an endangered panther, and then try to save his own father.

Carl Hiaasen tells a wickedly funny, slightly twisted tale about families, figuring out what's really important, and knowing when (and when not) to let things go.


Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Squirm-Carl-Hiaasen/dp/0385752970/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1535291443&sr=8-1&keywords=squirm

Carl Hiaasen was born and raised in Florida, where he still lives with his family.
A graduate of the University of Florida, at age 23 he joined The Miami Herald as a general assignment reporter and went on to work for the newspaper’s weekly magazine and prize-winning investigations team. Since 1985 Hiaasen has been writing a regular column, which at one time or another has pissed off just about everybody in South Florida, including his own bosses.

Today his column appears on most Sundays in The Herald’s opinion-and-editorial section, and may be viewed online at www.herald.com.

Hiaasen began writing novels in early 1980s with his good friend and fellow journalist, William D. Montalbano. Together they wrote three mystery thrillers – Powder Burn, Trap Line and Death in China – which borrowed heavily from their reporting experiences.

Tourist Season, published in 1986, was Hiaasen’s first solo novel. GQ magazine called it “one of the 10 best destination reads of all time,” though it failed to frighten a single tourist away from Florida. His next effort, Double Whammy, was the first (and possibly only) novel ever written about sex, murder and corruption on the professional bass-fishing tour.

Since then, Hiaasen has published Skin Tight, Native Tongue and nine national bestsellers – Strip Tease, Stormy Weather, Lucky You, Sick Puppy, Basket Case, Skinny Dip, Nature Girl, Star Island and Bad Monkey. All the novels are set in Florida, for obvious reasons.

Hiaasen is also the author of several popular novels for young readers: Hoot, which won a Newbery Honor, Flush, Scat and, most recently, Skink – No Surrender, which introduces one of the wildest characters in his adult books to a teen audience.

The film version of Hoot came out in 2006. It was directed by Wil Shriner, and produced by Jimmy Buffett and Frank Marshall. Buffett plays a teacher in the movie, while the author himself makes a forgettable cameo.

Hiaasen has also written two nonfiction books. The first, Team Rodent, is a wry but unsparing rant against the Disney empire and its grip on American culture. In 2008 came The Downhill Lie, which chronicles Hiaasen’s ill-advised return to the sport of golf after a “much-needed” 32-year hiatus.

Together, his books have been published in 34 languages, which is 33 more than he can read or write. The London Observer has called him “America’s finest satirical novelist,” while Janet Maslin of the New York Times has compared him to Preston Sturges, Woody Allen and S.J. Perelman.

To prove he doesn’t just make up all the sick stuff in his books, Hiaasen has also published three collections of his newspaper columns, Kick Ass, Paradise Screwed and Dance of the Reptiles. All these volumes were heroically edited by Diane Stevenson.

For his journalism and commentary, Hiaasen has received numerous honors, including the Damon Runyon Award from the Denver Press Club and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Society of Newspaper Columnists.

His nonfiction work has appeared in many magazines, including Sports Illustrated, Playboy, Time, Esquire and, most improbably, Gourmet.

One of Hiaasen's most well-known novels, Strip Tease, was turned into a major motion picture starring Demi Moore, and directed by Andrew Bergman. Hiaasen still believes that the Vaseline scene featuring Burt Reynolds is a landmark moment in American cinema.

My Thoughts...

Who's ready for a young adult book? This was a good one and your tweens are sure to love it.
this book is about family  and Billy having a time of his life this summer. Adventure after adventure. floating, hiking, flying, and wild animals.
You don't want to miss this one, your young readers are going to really enjoy this.
I gave this book 4 stars. It is recommended and I can't wait to hear what you all think about 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.

Friday, September 14, 2018

300 Billion to One! By Wayne Faust





300 Billion to One is an inspirational book for all ages. A Clinical Therapist loses his own motivation to live after the passing of his beloved wife. He regains it after God sends back his wife to visit him two weeks after she passed to help him move forward again. Recognizing that the experience with simple odds could be explained away by non-believers, he thanked God, wrote the odds in his grief journal and asked God to not let him forget the experience a week, month or year from now. God answered with a series of interventions within minutes. A former neighbor came to his home while he was praying this prayer of thanks. He greeted her and she related to him her dream recounting the exact experience the SAME night BEFORE hearing his story! A series of interventions continued to keep his hope high and his faith strong. 300 Billion to One shows the foresight and love of God to transcend time and begin answering our prayers before we even pray them. This documented series of miraculous interventions provides an insight into the mind of God-how he thinks about us, loves us and wants to give us sustained hope until we meet Him on the other side. 300 Billion to One will forever change the way you think about the character and magnitude of God’s love for us.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/300-Billion-One-story-defies/dp/1946889474/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1536861235&sr=8-1&keywords=300+billion+to+one

Wayne R. Faust, MA, SLPE, HSP is a Licensed Therapist in the State of Tennessee and is currently CEO of Counseling and Assessments Ministries (CandAMin.org), a nonprofit counseling ministry dedicated to serving Alzheimer’s clients and providing indigent children opportunities to develop career skills through Music/Art Dream Camps. Prior to starting CAM in 2015, Wayne’s career was centered in providing various licensed clinical, industrial-organizational and Human Resources related services in diverse settings that included Harriet Cohn Mental Health Center, Metro Government of Nashville and Davidson County Human Resources as well as the State of Tennessee Corrections. His consulting work under Cleckner Educational Publishing and Moore Educational Publishing companies included his authoring over 20 study/test modules for the College Level Equivalency Program (CLEP). He holds Bachelor degrees in both Bible and Psychology from Lee University in Cleveland, Tennessee as well as a graduate degree in Clinical Psychology from Middle Tennessee State University where he also served as an adjunct professor for a brief period. He added to his industrial/organizational licensure a Clinical Licensure upon graduation as well as an SPHR in Human Resources. A widower, Wayne resides in Smyrna, Tennessee while actively attending the Church of the City in Franklin, Tennessee. His only son Derek is single and a Firefighter for the City of Hendersonville, Tennessee. Wayne stays active serving as a board member of the Smyrna YMCA, several 501(c) ( 3)s and supporting local charitable causes.

Thursday, September 13, 2018

Signs of the Times By Greg Laurie GIVEAWAY!




FEATURES AND BENEFITS
  • Reveals what’s next for the nation, the planet, and the body of Christ
  • Exposes what is taking place in the invisible spiritual world
  • Points to a God who is in complete control
The signs are unmistakable.

We've always had earthquakes but this many? We've always faced natural disasters but this terrible? We've always had Middle East tensions but this intense? This widespread?

Jesus said there would be clear signs in our world before His return. Over the last few months and years, as we read headline after amazing headline, those signs seem to be escalating. Could Christ's return and our world's final days be very far away? Greg Laurie opens the Scriptures, offering insight, warning, and encouragement to "make the most of every opportunity" in these challenging days.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Signs-Times-Rapture-Anti-Christ-Armageddon/dp/1629995436/ref=sr_1_fkmr2_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1536515019&sr=8-1-fkmr2&keywords=Sings+of+the+times+by+Greg+Laurie


Greg Laurie is the senior pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship, which has campuses in California and Hawaii. He began his pastoral ministry at the age of nineteen by leading a Bible study of thirty people. Since then God has transformed that small group into a church of some 15,000 people, making it one of the largest churches in America. Greg is also the featured speaker of Harvest Ministry's nationally syndicated radio program, A New Beginning, host of the TV program Harvest: Greg Laurie, speaker at the international Harvest Crusades, and author of more than seventy books. He and his wife, Cathe, live in Southern California.

My Thoughts...

 I found this book to be one for new Christians no so much for the Christ followers who has been following for a long time.
It is a book that will teach new Christians  and answer many of their questions.
It is a good book for a small group to read together and study in a group.
I gave this book 4 stars. Recommended for new  converts.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Wednesday, September 12, 2018

The Cumberland Bride By Shannon McNear




Thomas Bledsoe and Kate Gruener are traveling the Wilderness Road when conflicts between natives and settlers reach a peak that will require each of them to tap into a well of courage.
A brand new series for fans of all things related to history, romance, adventure, faith, and family trees.

Love and Adventure Are Discovered on the Wilderness Road
In 1794, when Kate Gruener’s father is ready to move the family farther west into the wilderness to farm untouched land, Kate is eager to live out her own story of adventure like he did during the War for Independence and to see untamed lands. And she sets her sights on learning more about their scout, Thomas Bledsoe. Thomas’s job is to get settlers safely across the Kentucky Wilderness Road to their destination while keeping an ear open for news of Shawnee unrest. But naïve Kate’s inquisitive nature could put them both in the middle of a rising tide of conflict. Is there more to Thomas’s story than he is willing to tell? Is there an untapped courage in Kate that can thwart a coming disaster?

Join the adventure as the Daughters of the Mayflower series continues with The Cumberland Bride by Shannon McNear.

More in the Daughters of the Mayflower series:
The Mayflower Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse – set 1620 Atlantic Ocean (February 2018)
The Pirate Bride by Kathleen Y’Barbo – set 1725 New Orleans (April 2018)
The Captured Bride by Michelle Griep – set 1760 during the French and Indian War (June 2018)
The Patriot Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse – set 1774 Philadelphia (August 2018)​
The Cumberland Bride by Shannon McNear – set 1794 on the Wilderness Road (October 2018)
The Liberty Bride by MaryLu Tyndall – set 1814 Baltimore (December 2018)

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Cumberland-Bride-Daughters-Mayflower-book/dp/1683226917/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1535292417&sr=1-1



Shannon McNear loves losing herself in local history. A Midwestern farm girl who lived in Charleston, South Carolina, for more than two decades before being transplanted to North Dakota, she's a military wife, mother of 8, and a member of ACFW and RWA. When not sewing, researching, or leaking story from her fingertips, she enjoys being outdoors, basking in the beauty of the northern prairies.

My Thoughts...

This was the first time that I have read McNear. I could not get into the story for some reason. I had a hard time with this one.
For some reason this whole series has not been my cup of tea.
This is just my opinion, so you may want to give it a try.
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.

Tuesday, September 11, 2018

Ours for a Season By Kim Vogel Sawyer



An Old Order Mennonite couple's vows and beliefs are challenged in this stirring contemporary novel for fans of Cindy Woodsmall or Shelley Shepherd Gray.Anthony and Marty Hirschler are part of an Old Order Mennonite community in Pine Hill, Indiana. The couple has grown apart since a doctor confirmed they would never have children. Marty longs to escape the tight-knit area where large families are valued, and the opportunity to do so arises when her childhood friend, Brooke Spalding, resurfaces with the wild idea of rebuilding a ghost town into a resort community. Brooke hires Anthony to help with the construction, drawing the Hirschlers away from Indiana and into her plan, and then finds herself diagnosed with cancer. Moral complications with Brooke's vision for a casino as part of the resort and the discovery of a runaway teenager hiding on the property open up a world neither the Hirschlers nor Brooke had considered before. Will they be able to overcome their challenges and differences to help the ones among them hurting the most?

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Ours-Season-Kim-Vogel-Sawyer/dp/0735290083/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1535908519&sr=8-1&keywords=ours+for+a+season+sawyer


Award-winning, bestselling author Kim Vogel Sawyer is a wife, mother, gramma, chocolate-lover, cat-petter, and--most importantly--a daughter of the King! With more than 1.5 million books in print in seven different languages, Kim enjoys a full-time writing and speaking ministry. Her "gentle stories of hope" are loved by readers and reviewers alike. Kim and her retired military husband, Don, reside on the plains of Kansas, the setting for many of her novels.

My Thoughts...

I never put this book down once I open it and started reading it.
As with all of Sawyers books you are getting a fresh story that you have not heard before.
You are going to love Marty, Brooke and Anthony's story.
Just make sure that once you start reading this one that you are free until you finish it you will not want to put it down.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Monday, September 10, 2018

Hiding Place CD By Tori Kelly GIVEAWAY!



 Tori Kelly (born December 14, 1992) is an American singer, songwriter, actress and record producer. Kelly first gained recognition after posting videos on YouTube at the age of 14. When she was 16, she auditioned for the singing competition television series American Idol. After being eliminated from the show, Kelly began to work on her own music. In 2012, she independently released her first EP that she produced, wrote, and mixed herself, titled Handmade Songs by Tori Kelly. The following year, Scooter Braun became her manager after seeing her videos on YouTube and introduced her to Capitol Records, with which she signed in September. Kelly's second EP Foreword came out in October 2013 as her first major label release. On June 23, 2015, Kelly's debut album, Unbreakable Smile, was released. The lead single, "Nobody Love", was released in February 2015 and became her first US Billboard Hot 100 appearance. Kelly was nominated for Best New Artist at the 58th Grammy Awards. She voiced a shy teenage elephant named Meena in the 2016 animated film Sing.

Kelly is a practicing Christian. Faith plays a part in her songwriting, though she does not consider herself a part of the Christian music genre.
In September 2017, Kelly announced her engagement to basketball player André Murillo. On May 20, 2018, she announced their marriage in an Instagram post.


Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Hiding-Place-Tori-Kelly/dp/B07GGCZ7G6/ref=tmm_acd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1536610703&sr=8-1&dpID=51z9nEwV8LL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=detail

My Thoughts...
 This CD did not disappoint.
Each one of the songs were unique and a blessing to listen to.
It would be a great CD to sit back and just sit and reflect or to listen to while reading your Bible and worshiping.
This would make a great "just because" gift.
I really have enjoyed this CD.
Highly recommended.



  Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway.  Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.  I did receive a sample of the CD in exchange for this review and post. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.  If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller/FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days on the same blog, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.

Sunday, September 9, 2018

Freedom's Light By Colleen Coble



A young lighthouse keeper must navigate the dangerous waters of revolution and one man’s obsession with her to find safe harbor with the sea captain she loves.
Hannah Thomas believes she’s escaped Galen Wright’s evil intentions by marrying an older lighthouse keeper. Seemingly safe in faraway Massachusetts, her world is upended when John is killed in one of the first battles of the Revolutionary War. Hannah is allowed to continue the difficult task of tending the twin lighthouses in John’s place, though she faces daily disapproval from John’s family. She thinks her loneliness will subside when her younger sister arrives, but she finds Lydia’s obsession with Galen only escalates the dangerous tides swirling around her.
A stormy night brings a shipwrecked sea captain to Hannah’s door, and though he is a Tory, her heart is as traitorous as the dark-eyed captain. Even though she discovers Birch Meredith isn’t the enemy he seemed at first, Hannah isn’t sure their love will ever see the light of freedom.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Freedoms-Light-Colleen-Coble/dp/0785219382/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1536534375&sr=8-1&keywords=freedoms+light+colleen+coble


Best-selling author Colleen Coble's novels have won or finaled in awards ranging from the Best Books of Indiana, the ACFW Carol Award, the Romance Writers of America RITA, the Holt Medallion, the Daphne du Maurier, National Readers' Choice, and the Booksellers Best. She has over 2 million books in print and writes romantic mysteries because she loves to see justice prevail. Colleen is CEO of American Christian Fiction Writers. She lives with her husband Dave in Indiana. Visit her website at http://colleencoble.com.

Don't you love this cover?

Saturday, September 8, 2018

The Christmas Prayer By Wanda Brunstetter




Beloved, bestselling author of Amish fiction, Wanda E. Brunstetter takes readers on a journey in 1850 along the California Trail.
Only the brave—or foolhardy—would attempt a cross-country journey late in the season. Three wagons meet up in Independence, Missouri, in April 1850, and their owners decide to keep forging ahead despite many setbacks and delays. December finds them in the Sierra Nevada Mountains when a sudden snowstorm traps them, obscuring the trail.

Cynthia Cooper is traveling with her mother and the man she has promised to marry. But as Christmas is upon them and they are hunkered down in a small cabin, she is forced to reevaluate her reasons for planning to marry fellow-traveler Walter Prentice. When a widowed father heading to a California ranch and a gold prospector both show an interest in Cynthia, she weighs her dreams for marriage alongside her responsibility to care for her mother. Can love win over her timid heart?

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Prayer-cross-country-mountain-danger_and/dp/1683226577/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1536190997&sr=8-1&keywords=a+christmas+prayer

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...

Are you ready for a sweet Christmas story? It is a very fast read. and I will say it again great authors should NOT write novellas. They end just way to fast for me. I never get enough.
Wanda can write any genre and do it with such class and so much knowledge.
You should give this 4 star Christmas novella to someone you love this Christmas.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Friday, September 7, 2018

The Cost of Betrayal By Dani Pettrey and Dee Henderson




In Dee Henderson's novella "Betrayed," Janelle Roberts is freed--thanks to people she doesn't know--after serving six years of a twenty-year sentence for a murder she did not commit. But a murderer is still at large, and Janelle needs to be somewhere safe with someone she can trust. She may not survive another betrayal.

In Dani Pettrey's "Deadly Isle," Tennyson Kent is trapped on the isolated island of her childhood by a storm surge, and she is shocked when the typically idyllic community turns into the hunting grounds of a murderer. Cut off from any help from the mainland, will she and first love Callen Frost be able to identify and stop a killer bent on betrayal before they become the next victims?

In Lynette Eason's "Code of Ethics," trauma surgeon Ruthie St. John saves the life of Detective Isaac Martinez. After a betrayal leads to him getting shot and then attacked while in recovery, Isaac is now a key witness determined to testify. But someone is intent on silencing him--and those around him--forever. Together, Ruthie and Isaac go on the run, desperate to escape the killers hunting him.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Cost-Betrayal-Romantic-Suspense-Novellas/dp/0764231731/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1536191766&sr=8-1&keywords=the+cost+of+betrayal+three+romantic+suspense+novellas


Dee Henderson is the author of 14 best-selling novels, including the acclaimed O'Malley series and the Uncommon Heroes series. As a leader in the inspirational romantic suspense category, her books have won or been nominated for several prestigious industry awards, including the RWA's RITA Award, the Christy Award, the ECPA Gold Medallion, the Holt Medallion, the National Readers' Choice Award, and the Golden Quill. Dee is a lifelong resident of Illinois and is active online. Visit her at www.deehenderson.com.

Praised by New York Times best-selling author Dee Henderson as "a name to look for in romantic suspense," Dani Pettrey has sold more than 400,000 copies of her novels to readers eagerly awaiting the next release. Dani combines the page-turning adrenaline of a thriller with the chemistry and happy-ever-after of a romance. Her novels stand out for their "wicked pace, snappy dialogue, and likable characters" (Publishers Weekly), "gripping storyline[s]," (RT Book Reviews), and "sizzling undercurrent of romance" (USA Today).

Her Alaskan Courage series and Chesapeake Valor series have received praise from readers and critics alike and spent multiple months topping the CBA bestseller lists. Dani has also been honored with multiple awards, including the Daphne du Maurier Award, two HOLT Medallions, a Christy Award finalist, two National Readers' Choice Awards, the Gail Wilson Award of Excellence, and Christian Retailing's Best Award.

From her early years eagerly reading Nancy Drew mysteries, to paging through Agatha Christie novels or watching on-the-edge-of-her-seat adventure movies, Dani has always enjoyed mystery and suspense. She considers herself blessed to be able to write the kind of stories she loves--full of plot twists and peril, love, and longing for hope and redemption. Her greatest joy as an author is sharing the stories God lays on her heart. She researches murder and mayhem from her home in Maryland, where she lives with her husband. Their two daughters, a son-in-law, and two adorable grandsons also reside in Maryland. For more information about her novels, visit www.danipettrey.com.


Award-winning, best-selling author, Lynette Eason writes for Harlequin's Love Inspired Suspense line and for Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. Her books have hit the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists and have won numerous awards such as the prestigious Carol Award, the Selah, the Daphne, the IRCC award and more. Lynette is married, has two children, and lives in Greenville, SC.

My Thoughts...

Oh what a ride this book took me on. I was reunited with some old friends from books in the past.
I was thrilled with Dee's novella and of course I read every word of Dani's in one sitting.
This book is not to be missed, best 4 star novellas you will read this year.  
 The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Wednesday, September 5, 2018

White as Silence Red as Song By Alessandro D'avenia




Hailed as Italy’s The Fault in Our Stars, this Italian bestseller is now available for the first time in English.
“I was born on the first day of school, and I grew up and old in just two hundred days . . .”
Sixteen-year-old Leo has a way with words, but he doesn’t know it yet. He spends his time texting, polishing soccer maneuvers, and killing time with Niko and Silvia. Until a new teacher arrives and challenges him to give voice to his dreams.
And so Leo is inspired to win over the red-haired beauty Beatrice. She doesn’t know Leo exists, but he’s convinced that his dream will come true. When Leo lands in the hospital and learns that Beatrice has been admitted too, his mission to be there for her will send him on a thrilling but heartbreaking journey. He wants to help her but doesn’t know how—and his dream of love will force him to grow up fast.
Having already sold over a million copies, Alessandro D’Avenia’s debut novel is considered Italy’s The Fault in Our Stars. Now available in English for the first time, this rich, funny, and heartwarming coming-of-age tale asks us to explore the meaning—and the cost—of friendship, and shows us what happens when suffering bursts into the world of teenagers and renders the world of adults speechless.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/White-Silence-Red-Song-Novel/dp/0785217061/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1535290377&sr=8-1&keywords=white+as+silence+red+as+song

Alessandro D’Avenia holds a PhD in Classical Literature, and teaches Ancient Greek, Latin and Literature at a high school in Milan. White as Silence, Red as Song was his first novel,published in Italy in 2010. It sold a million copies in Italy, has been translated into over twenty languages and was released as a film in 2012. Alessandro has since published four more books, the latest of which, Every Story is a Love Story, was published in October 2017.

My Thoughts...

This is a young adult book that is very popular in Italy and I can see why. It is a lot like the Fault in  Our Stars. It was a fast read.
A little bit unbelievable at times but it was a good read.
I gave it 4 stars and recommend it to young adult readers.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Tuesday, September 4, 2018

A Christmas By The Sea By Melody Carlson



When Wendy Harper inherits her family's beachside cottage in Seaside, Maine, she sees it as a way to finally pay off the debts that have mounted since her husband died. But before it can be sold, the neglected property must be renovated. She and her 12-year-old son Jackson move in--temporarily, she reminds him--in order to do the work themselves, even though Christmas is coming. The charming town, along with local craftsman Caleb Colton, pulls on both Wendy and Jackson, who even registers himself for school in a bid to get his mom to move them there permanently. Wendy knows that the most responsible thing to do is to sell the cottage and return to Ohio, but the lure of the sea is hard to resist.

Join award-winning author Melody Carlson for a Christmas story that will warm your heart and have you dreaming of your own enchanted seaside holiday.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Sea-Melody-Carlson/dp/080072271X/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1535911989&sr=1-1


Melody Carlson has written more than 200 books (with sales around 6.5 million) for teens, women and children. That's a lot of books, but mostly she considers herself a "storyteller." Her novels range from serious issues like schizophrenia (Finding Alice) to lighter topics like house-flipping (A Mile in My Flip-Flops) but most of the inspiration behind her fiction comes right out of real life. Her young adult novels (Diary of a Teenage Girl, TrueColors etc.) appeal to teenage girls around the world. Her annual Christmas novellas become more popular each year. She's won a number of awards (including Romantic Time's Career Achievement Award, the Rita and the Gold Medallion) and some of her books have been optioned for film/TV. Carlson has two grown sons and makes her home in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and yellow Lab dog. To find out more about Melody Carlson, visit her website at http://www.melodycarlson.com/

My Thoughts...

I read Melody's Christmas novellas every year. And they put me in such a great mood.
I love them and each one is so different than the last.
This years Christmas novella was such a sweet one. I love happy endings to so this was right up my alley.
I feel in love with Jackson and I hope that you will love his story and his cottage by the sea.
This is a 5 star must read. I HIGHLY recommend this one.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Saturday, September 1, 2018

Fit To Be Tied By Debby Mayne




The Bucklin family loves each other too much to stay away. . . but not enough to behaveBeing rich is fine, but when wealth comes from striking oil, it's a slippery mess for a family who doesn't know what to do with it. The Bucklin cousins are all together again, and this family reunion is shaping up to be another disaster.

Coralee falls for the police officer who pulls her over. Sally has finally found a guy, but now she's not sure a relationship is even worth the bother. No matter how hard Brett tries to avoid trouble, he somehow stumbles right back into the thick of it. And Marybeth and Bucky continue to fumble and bumble as they learn how to handle being rich.

The Bucklin family is known for drama--and Bucklin family drama knows no bounds.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Fit-Tied-Bucklin-Family-Reunion/dp/1683701402/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1535289620&sr=8-3

Debby Mayne is the author of more than 60 novels and novellas that have received the "Top Pick" award from Romantic Times Magazine and been among the "Top 10 Favorites" in the Heartsong Presents book club. She writes family and faith-based romances, cozy mysteries, and women's fiction. She has also written more than 1,000 short stories and articles as well as dozens of devotions for busy women. She has worked as managing editor of a national health publication, product information writer for a TV retailer, creative writing instructor, and copy editor and proofreader for several book publishers. She is currently an etiquette writer for The Spruce, one of the DotDash (formerly About.com) companies.

Debby grew up in a military family, which meant moving every few years throughout her childhood. Debby was born in Alaska, and she has lived in Mississippi, Tennessee, Oregon, Florida, Hawaii, and Japan. Her parents were both from the Deep South, so she enjoys featuring characters with southern drawls, plenty of down-home cooking, and folks with quirky mannerisms.

She and her husband currently live in the Charleston, South Carolina, area. To learn more about Debby:
Website - debbymayne.net
Facebook - www.facebook.com/DebbyMayneAuthor
Twitter - www.twitter.com/@debbymayne     

My Thoughts...

I have been loving the Bucklin Family reunion series. Fit to be Tied is book number two in the series and it has been the best. I read it in one sitting. The Bucklin family is the best, I laughed out loud so many times. I love how the story seemed so real.
I can't wait for  book three next spring.
5 star must read. I highly recommend this one.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.