Monday, August 31, 2020

The Book Of CarolSue By Lynne Hugo

Award-winning author Lynne Hugo returns with a life-affirming, poignant novel in the spirit of A Man Called Ove—a story brimming with both wit and warmth about how a family gets on . . . and goes on.

CarolSue and her sister, Louisa, are best friends, but haven’t had much in common since CarolSue married Charlie, moved to Atlanta, and swapped shoes covered with Indiana farm dust for pedicures and afternoon bridge. Louisa, meanwhile, loves her farm and animals as deeply as she’d loved Harold, her late husband of forty years.

Charlie’s sudden death leaves CarolSue so adrift that she surrenders to Louisa’s plan for her to move back home. But canning vegetables and feeding chickens are alien to CarolSue, and she resolves to return to Atlanta—until Louisa’s son, Reverend Gary, arrives with an abandoned infant and a dubious story. He begs the women to look after the baby while he locates the mother—a young immigrant who fears deportation.

Keeping his own secrets, Gary enlists the aid of the sheriff, Gus, in the search. But CarolSue’s bond with the baby is undeniable, and she forms an unconventional secret plan of her own. How many mistakes can be redeemed?

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Book-CarolSue-Lynne-Hugo/dp/1496725670/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2VN1LNN8EX277&dchild=1&keywords=the+book+of+carolsue&qid=1597766313&sprefix=The+Book+of+Carol%2Caps%2C167&sr=8-1

Lynne Hugo is an American author whose roots are in the northeast. A National Endowment For The Arts Fellowship recipient, she has also received repeat individual artists grants from the Ohio Arts Council and the Kentucky Foundation for Women. Her publications include eight novels, one volume of creative non-fiction, two books of poetry and a children’s book. She lives with her husband, a photographer, in the Midwest. They have two grown children, three grandchildren, and a yellow Labrador retriever who excels at barking and playing tennis ball shortstop.

Ms. Hugo has taught creative writing to hundreds of schoolchildren through the Ohio Arts Council’s renowned Arts in Education program. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from Connecticut College, and a Master’s from Miami University.

When an editor asked her to describe herself as a writer, she responded:

"I write in black Wal-Mart capri sweatpants. They don't start out as capris, but I routinely shrink them in the drier by accident. And I always buy black because it doesn't show where I've wiped the chocolate off my hands. Now that my son and daughter are grown, my previous high grade of 'below average' in Domestic Achievement has dropped somewhat. But I'm less guilty about it now. I lose myself in crafting language by a window with birdfeeders hanging in the branches of a Chinese elm towering over the house. When I come up for air, I hike by the ponds and along the river in a nearby forest with my beloved Lab. My husband, with whom I planted that elm as a bare root sapling, joins us when he can."

My Thoughts...
Review from an older person who is an only child. From someone who wants sisters so bad. I love books about sisters this one did not disappoint. I really like older characters also. So this book had both which made me super happy.  
You have to pick up a copy of this one and tell me what you think. I  gave it 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.

Friday, August 28, 2020

Salvation Station By Kathryn Schleich

Despite her years of experience investigating homicides for the force, Captain Linda Turner is haunted by the murders of the Hansen family. The two small children, clothed in tattered Disney pajamas, were buried with their father, a pastor, in the flower garden behind a church parsonage in Lincoln, Nebraska. But Mrs. Hansen is nowhere to be found―and neither is the killer. In St. Louis, the televangelist Ray Williams is about to lose his show―until one of his regular attendees approaches him with an idea that will help him save it. Despite his initial misgivings, Ray agrees to give it a try. He can’t deny his attraction to this woman, and besides, she’d assured him the plan is just―God gave her the instructions in a dream. Multiple story lines entwine throughout this compelling mystery, delving into the topics of murder, religious faith, and the inherent dangers in blindly accepting faith as truth. While Reverend Williams is swept up in his newfound success and plans for his wedding, Captain Turner can only hope that she and her team will catch the Hansens’ cunning killer―before more bodies surface.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Salvation-Station-Novel-Kathryn-Schleich/dp/1631528920/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1RWN23P126AD0&dchild=1&keywords=salvation+station+kathryn+schleich&qid=1598062299&sprefix=Salvation+Station%2Caps%2C265&sr=8-1#customerReviews

I didn’t come into writing the usual way – creating stories from the moment I left the womb, through childhood and adolescence building a body of work, and then going off to college to pursue my dreams. But I always loved it. A geek in those god-awful years known as high school, I adored researching and writing papers. Especially in English and social studies. My mother suggested I get on the staff of the yearbook and school paper. In a fit of teenage rebellion, I refused, even though I planned to major in journalism.
When I was attending college in the 1970s, the aftermath of Watergate and the Washington Post reporters who brought down a president was on everyone’s mind. It seemed every kid in journalism programs across America wanted to be the next Carl Bernstein and Bob Woodward, so there was competition, to put it mildly. I changed my focus to broadcast journalism, and found myself in small Iowa and Minnesota towns, writing ad copy and reading the hog reports. Not glamorous in the least, but I thought maybe I’d discovered my true calling.
As often happens, life intervened. I had to take real (and often menial) jobs to pay the bills, and radio became a part-time gig. I discovered a different type of writing in the corporate sector interviewing employees on their volunteer involvement. I added writing and recruiting of volunteers for a large yearly fall church festival. In all those years of questionable career choices, writing was what I loved the most.
In my late twenties, I fell in love and followed my future husband to his first job in California, despite warning my girlfriends, “Don’t ever follow a man to be closer to him. Disaster is sure to follow.” So much for taking my own advice. Trapped in the worst job I ever held and with my spouse frequently working nights, I decided to go get a master’s in mass communications. Again, research and writing papers enthralled me. But I wasn’t really thinking about writing seriously yet – our graduate advisers kept telling us professors on the tenure track were about to retire and we’d have our pick in teaching jobs. Never one able to grab onto a trend before it dies, that would turn out not to be true. When we turned to the Midwest, I was completing my thesis. It was then that I realized how much I missed writing regularly and immersed myself in what would become a treatise on how Catholic women were portrayed in Hollywood films. It changed my life. I self-published two editions of work as a text for college students.
In the late 1990s I owned a freelance writing business, working primarily for non-profits doing everything from articles for newspapers, magazines, newsletters, visitor’s guides, press releases – the gamut of nonfiction work. My husband and I experienced some unique events and I began writing short stories based on those incidents. It wasn’t until my marriage ended that I delved into my pain and expressed it through writing.  In 2017 I published two stories – Grand Slam in The Accentos Review and Reckless Acts in the After Effects anthology published by Zimbell House.
This gave me the confidence to continue writing. I am excited to announce that my crime novel, Salvation Station, was published in spring 2020 through She Writes Press. The reviews have been positive, and I am grateful for the fantastic support of readers, friends and family. I keep that in mind every time an essay or short story is rejected by a writing contest. Like revision, rejections are a big part of the writer’s life and you have to grow a thick skin and remember someone else’s opinion is subjective. I keep moving forward, with plans to re-publish a suspense novel I wrote several years ago and continue working a new crime novel.
Every life is a work in progress, and I hope you’ll join me on this adventure and perhaps learn something new along the way. We can’t rewrite the past or erase mistakes, but if someone advises you to work on the yearbook, paper, or in small market to gain experience, take it. Even if it’s your mom and you’d rather not, remember these people have lived more life than you. My bet is you won’t regret realizing you don’t know everything after all.
My Thoughts...
Salvation Station was a really well written book. Schleich did a very good job with introducing the characters and laying out the plot. I read this book in a day. I think I connected with the authors writing style and just enjoyed the read. I gave this book 4 stars and I can't wait to read more by this author. 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, August 27, 2020

Targeted By Larry Daane


The sheep mutilation makes Sheriff Decker's skin crawl. People may be next.
Failure could cost him everything.
But more is on the line than he realizes. Humanity itself may soon be in the crosshairs.

Sheriff Decker must determine why good people in his town are committing horrific acts.
Little does he know the future of humankind is in the balance.

Pick up your copy here maybe...
https://www.amazon.com/Targeted-L-Daane/dp/B087367R63/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1597231449&sr=8-1

L. A. Daane spends the bulk of his time in Oregon and Hawaii. In Portland, he is a long-term volunteer at the Hoyt Arboretum. On Molokai, he supports a native plants reintroduction project at the Hui Ho'olana, a non-profit living sanctuary.

When not up his wrists in dirt or glued to his keyboard, you're likely to find him lobbing, lifting or smashing a shuttlecock (hopefully) far out of reach of his badminton opponents.

Having worked for years as an engineer, he is intrigued and frightened about where technology is taking us, as individuals and as a species.

Wednesday, August 26, 2020

The Menu By Steven Manchester

Phinn Reed enters the world with God’s promise of finding his soul mate. With heaven’s memories erased, his romantic quest teaches him that the heart often sees clearer than the eyes—and that not everyone has ordered the same items from The Menu. This inspirational novel is heartfelt evidence that love stories come in many different forms.

Pick up your copy here maybe...
https://www.amazon.com/Menu-Steven-Manchester/dp/0984184252/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1597233649&sr=8-1-spons

Steven Manchester is the author of the soul-awakening novel, The Menu; the #1 bestsellers Twelve Months, The Rockin' Chair, Pressed Pennies and Gooseberry Island; the national bestsellers, Ashes, The Changing Season and Three Shoeboxes; the multi-award winning novel, Goodnight Brian; and the beloved holiday podcast drama, The Thursday Night Club. 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. He is a multi-produced playwright, as well as the winner of the 2017 Los Angeles Book Festival and the 2018 New York Book Festival. When not spending time with his beautiful wife, Paula, or their children, this Massachusetts author is promoting his works or writing. Visit: www.StevenManchester.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorStevenManchester
Twitter: @authorSteveM

My thoughts...
I've read a few of Manchester's books in the past and have enjoyed them so when asked to feature The Menu on my blog of course I said yes. 
This was a real treat to dive into. I felt such a connection  while reading it. It is full of hope and a journey you are going to want to take.
Grab this one up and sit back and be prepared to cry a little bit.
I gave this book 4 stars and I hope you enjoy it as much as I 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.

Tuesday, August 25, 2020

Stage Fright Kate Lloyd

Jessica Nash loves to sing but is paralyzed every time she gets on stage. After blowing an excruciating audition, she wonders if she should give up on her dream. She’s already committed to a week-long choral tour of England with her church choir, though, and as a single mom with a limited income, this might be her only chance to travel. The trip gets off to a rocky start when Jessica has to sit next to Martin, a once-famous British tenor whose career plummeted in a scandal, on the flight to London. Is it her imagination, or does he seem to aim his bitterness toward womankind specifically at her? And to make things worse, once they arrive Jessica discovers she has to room with the choir’s thorny lead soprano.When Nick, their handsome tour guide, takes a special interest in showing Jessica the sights, things finally seem to be falling into place. She starts to relax and let herself be wooed against the backdrop of the charming English countryside. But is she ready to give him as much as he’s asking for?Things aren’t as simple as they seem. Almost every person on the tour, it seems, is hiding a secret, and before her English holiday is over Jessica will find herself stretched and tested in every direction—including the soloist’s place center stage.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Stage-Fright-Kate-Lloyd/dp/1735241105/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=stage+fright+kate+lloyd&qid=1597274394&sr=8-1

Bestselling author Kate Lloyd is a passionate observer of human relationships. A native of Baltimore, Kate spends time with family and friends in Lancaster County, PA, the inspiration for her novels Leaving Lancaster, Pennsylvania Patchwork, and Forever Amish, the third book in the Legacy of Lancaster Trilogy, and also A Letter from Lancaster County and Starting from Scratch. Her Kindle novella An Unexpected Christmas Gift is available for preorder. Kate and her husband live in the Pacific Northwest, the setting for Kate's first novel, A Portrait of Marguerite. Kate studied art, art history, and Italian in college. She's worked a variety of jobs, including restaurateur and car salesman. Kate enjoys travel and walking with her camera in hand.

Website: www.katelloyd.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/katelloydbooks
Instagram:@katelloydauthor
Giveaways on her Blog: http://katelloyd.com/blog/
Pinterest: @KateLloydAuthor

My Thoughts...
Lloyd has written a book like no other. And no its not another Amish book its a contemporary fiction book. You are going to fall in love with the characters, and the story line is one to keep you turning pages until the very end.
5 stars from The Mary Reader I highly recommend this book.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Monday, August 24, 2020

The Trouble in Willow Falls By Pat Nichols

Heart-warming emotionally charged saga of a small southern town’s struggle for survival and two women’s challenge to balance family and career 
Rachel Streetman is one audition away from landing the lead in a play written by a respected director and jump-starting her lackluster acting career. An unexpected incident sends her fleeing back to Willow Falls, Georgia and Charlie Bricker’s arms. After collaborating with her sister to revive the town’s theater, an invitation to audition for a play in Atlanta’s premiere theater forces her to choose between loyalty and her life-long dream.
Months after submitting her first novel to publishers, Emily Hayes receives one response—a rejection. When famous artist Naomi Jasper offers her much-needed cash to finish writing, then cast and direct a play about Willow Falls’ colorful history, Emily faces a difficult decision—postpone rewriting her novel or accept the offer. Aware the project has a high probability of failure she recruits the one person who has the experience she needs.
When a scathing blogger review and a negative Atlanta television newscast threaten Willow Falls’ premiere as a North Georgia tourist destination, the quirky, opinionated, lovable residents dig deep to invest their time and limited resources to boost the town’s appeal. As they prepare for Redding Arms’ grand opening, five newcomers with troubled pasts and one British tourist test the locals’ capacity for tolerance and grace. 

Pick up your copy here...
Welcome to my author page. I'm delighted you stopped by.

I launched career number two as a writer after retiring from a corporate career with Avon Products, proving it’s never too late to follow your dreams. Now I draw on twenty-seven years working with amazing women from all walks of life to write emotional stories punctuated with humor, mystery, and a touch of romance about women facing tension-laced challenges and heart-warming triumphs in pursuit of their dreams. The Willow Falls series introduces readers to a small southern town on the brink of failure, populated by an opinionated, quirky, lovable, cast of characters and will appeal to fans of Debbie Macomber, Ane Mulligan, Jan Karon and other southern writers. I'm honored to share that The Secret of Willow Inn, book one in the series, is a finalist for a 2020 Selah award, debut novel category.

I'm married to my high-school-sweetheart, am the mother of two and grandmother of four, one is with the angels. I was born in Illinois, grew up in Orlando, and have called the Atlanta area home since the eighties. When I'm not writing I enjoy reading, jigsaw puzzles, watching movies, and spending time with family and friends. One of my favorite activities is speaking to groups and reading clubs. You can reach me at patnichols@patnicholsauthor.blog

Although we love dogs, especially black labs, our pets now consist of squirrels scampering across their deck, deer traipsing through their back yard, and an occasional rabbit.

I'm a member of ACFW and Word Weavers International and have been featured on WATC Television Atlanta Alive and in Voyager Magazine http://voyageatl.com/interview/meet-pat-nichols-author-duluth/

You are welcome to come on over to my website: www.patnicholsauthor.blog or join me Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram
My Thoughts...
Book number two in the Willow Falls series. I enjoyed coming back to this small town as the saga continues. Nichols picks up where she left off in book one, returning to the wonderful characters that we fell in love with in book one. This can be read as a stand alone you would not be lost but I would read book one and continue  this series after getting to know everyone in this small town. I gave this book 4 stars and I hope to be reading the next book in this series soon.
 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, August 21, 2020

A Dazzle of Diamonds By Liz Johnson

Penelope Hunter loves her job as the events manager at one of Savannah's premier historic venues--until her ex-fiancé walks into her office with his new bride-to-be. To make matters worse, a scheming social matriarch is intent on seeing Penelope fired, especially if she insists on being seen with Tucker Westbrook.

Since returning from serving two tours in the Middle East, Tucker has built a thriving security company. His work is nearly as stabilizing as his friendship with Penelope, who has been by his side since childhood. But when the lone candidate for county sheriff goads him, Tucker loses his cool and ends up on the ballot--and on the receiving end of a smear campaign claiming the Westbrooks were traitors to the South.

To clear his name, Tucker and Penelope must join forces to find the truth behind a 150-year-old lost treasure. But the more time they spend together, the closer she comes to losing her job--and falling helplessly in love.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Dazzle-Diamonds-Georgia-Coast-Romance/dp/0800729420/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1F5XYU6ZBB29C&dchild=1&keywords=a+dazzle+of+diamonds+by+liz+johnson&qid=1597769073&sprefix=A+dazzle+of+Diamonds%2Caps%2C168&sr=8-1

By day Liz Johnson works in marketing. She finds time to write late at night and is a Christy Award finalist and a two-time ACFW Carol Award finalist. Liz makes her home in Phoenix, Arizona where she enjoys theater, exploring local history, and doting on her nieces and nephews. She loves stories of true love with happy endings. Find out more about Liz at www.LizJohnsonBooks.com.

My Thoughts...
I have read A Sparkle of Silver and A Glitter of Gold the first two books in the Georgia Coast series and I enjoyed them both but A Dazzle of Diamonds  was my favorite of the three.  I loved looking for the treasure with Tucker and Penelope.
The characters and the story are not to be forgotten.
I gave this book 4 stars and I recommend the whole series.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Thursday, August 20, 2020

Love and a Little White Lie By Tammy Gray

January Sanders grew up believing karma was more reliable than an imaginary higher power, but after suffering her worst heartbreak in 29 years, she's open to just about anything, including taking a temporary position at her aunt's church. Keeping her lack of faith a secret, January is determined to use her photographic memory to help Grace Community's overworked staff, all while scraping herself off rock bottom.

What she doesn't count on is meeting the church's handsome and charming guitarist, who not only is a strong believer, but has also dedicated his life to Christian music. It's a match set for disaster, and yet January has no ability to stay away, even if it means pretending to have faith in a God she doesn't believe in.

Only this time, keeping secrets isn't as easy as she thought it would be. Especially when she's constantly running into her aunt's landscape architect, who seems to know everything about her past and present sins and makes no apologies about pushing her to deal with feelings she'd rather keep buried.

Torn between two worlds incapable of coexisting, can January find the healing that's eluded her or will her resistance to the truth ruin any chance of happiness?

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Love-Little-White-State-Grace/dp/0764235893/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1597766928&sr=8-1

Tammy L. Gray lives in the Dallas area with her family, and they love all things Texas, even the erratic weather patterns. Her nine modern and true-to-life contemporary romances include 2017 RITA award winning, My Hope Next Door, and show her unending quest to write high quality, culturally relevant stories with relatable and flawed characters.

When not taxiing her three kids to various school and sporting events, Tammy can be spotted crunching numbers as the financial administrator at her hometown church. Writing has given her a platform to combine her passion with her ministry all while sharing the messy, yet remarkable journey that is a faith-filled life.

Tammy L. Gray has lots of projects going on. For all the latest info, visit her website at http://tammylgray.com

I'd love to hear from all of you! Come join me on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/tlgraybooks or twitter @tlgraybooks

My Thoughts...
Fun, fast read. Light read with good plot and easy to connect with characters. I enjoy this book in one sitting and can't wait to read more by Gray this was the first book I have read by her. 
I gave this book 4 stars ,I recommend it.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Wednesday, August 19, 2020

Take Back Your Life By Levi Lusko GIVEAWAY!

A forty-day interactive journey that will help you identify and fight your internal battles—so you can take back your life. 
Every person has a mission and a God-given potential to impact the world, whether they recognize it or not. But life presents challenges and traps us in a helpless, hopeless loop of anxiety and fear.
In Take Back Your Life, a blend of bestselling books Through the Eyes of a Lion and I Declare War, join Levi Lusko on an interactive journey to take back your life. With biblical truth and perspective, this step-by-step journaling process will help you:
  • get out of your own way by learning to think right so you can live right,
  • find purpose by discovering that God will do great things with your imperfect progress, and
  • learn that your pain is not an obstacle to being used by God but an opportunity to be used like never before.
This is more than a book; it’s an intimate self-analysis tool that will help you recognize what’s weighing you down or holding you back, and equip you to embrace it head-on as you become the best version of yourself. Start thinking right, so you can live right.

Pick up your copy here...

Levi Lusko is the founder and lead pastor of Fresh Life Church, located in Montana, Wyoming, Oregon, and Utah. He is the bestselling author of Through the Eyes of a Lion, Swipe Right, and I Declare War. Levi also travels the world speaking about Jesus. He and his wife, Jennie, have one son, Lennox, and four daughters: Alivia, Daisy, Clover, and Lenya, who is in heaven.

My Thoughts...
This book is full of insightful ways to make the most of all we can to help us improve our selves.
Lusko is a new to me author but I enjoy his writing style. This is an interactive journey to thinking right so that you can live right.
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.

Tuesday, August 18, 2020

Morning Star By Charlotte Hubbard

When five maidels join forces to turn an abandoned barn into an Amish marketplace, the unmarried women have community in mind. But their fledgling enterprise promises to reap surprising rewards for each in turn, including the gift of unexpected love . . .  

For Regina Miller, the new Morning Star Marketplace is a chance to share her secret work with the world—without revealing herself. Old Order Amish forbid the creation of art without purpose, but without a husband, Regina has been free to explore the joy of painting in her attic. Yet when Gabe Flaud’s curiosity leads him to speculate that Regina herself is the painter, the full weight of their community’s judgement falls on her shoulders.  

When Gabe stands up to defend Regina, questioning the Order’s restrictions, he reveals his own guilty secret and is shunned along with her. Forced to turn to each other for companionship, the young couple must learn to balance their own needs with their deep faith . . . and a love that will show them all things are possible.  

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Morning-Star-Charlotte-Hubbard/dp/1420145126/ref=tmm_mmp_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1597230102&sr=8-1

Charlotte Hubbard sold her first historical romance in 1990, and she’s been a slave to her overactive imagination ever since. As she writes, her stories invariably take on a life of their own, different from the way she proposed them: unforeseen characters and plot twists come along, and they keep her guessing right along with her readers!

Charlotte has lived in the Midwest most of her life. When she’s not writing, she loves touring historic homes, trying new recipes, crocheting, and playing with her Border Collie, Ramona. She’s a Presbyterian deacon, sings in her church choir, and plays in the percussion ensemble. She’s married to a fine man who—bless him—has never once suggested she get a real job!

My Thoughts..
The first book in a new series The Maidels of Morning Star. Amish books are a plain getaway for me. At one point that is all I was reading. So I have been reading and enjoying Hubbards books for a long time.
I always get excited when a new book come out. 
This one was no different. Hubbard takes me a way to a simple time and shares great likeable characters  with us.
You don't want to miss this new Amish fiction getaway.
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.

Monday, August 17, 2020

Enjoy Today Own Tomorrow By Laine Lawson Craft

Want to know how to live your dreams?  Discover how to reconnect, realign, and reactivate with the ultimate power source.
Broken, disappointed, lifeless? What if one second, one minute, or one hour could give you the power you needed to win at life every day, no matter what you were facing?
How is that possible? Enjoy Today, Own Tomorrow will show you how to start winning in life by spending literally seconds each day discovering God’s power. As you extend the process, you’ll find the joy and hope you need for today. As you reconnect, realign, and reactivate you’ll discover the power to walk confidently into tomorrow and to live your dreams!

Pick up your copy here...
Author, Entrepreneur, Speaker & Television Host.
Laine Lawson Craft's passion explodes when she can inspire and empower individuals to live transparently and joyfully, pursuing their dreams. She is the author of three books with her newest book releasing, Enjoy Today Own Tomorrow: Discover the Power to Live the Life You Love, coming August 17, 2020, nationwide. Join her on her Enjoy Today Own Tomorrow Podcast weekly. Find her on all social media too! Visit her website today and join the encouraging conversation at LaineLawsonCraft.com.
She is committed to taking my message of hope, restoration and fulfillment to individuals all over the globe. Her mission is to watch and guide women to grow in intimacy with God and discover the freedom that comes through transparency, trust and friendship. She loves people with a big heart!
When she’s not on the road speaking, she is at home in Alabama with her fun and handsome husband of over 33 years. She also love spending time with my three young adults, Steven, Lawson and Kaylee. Last but not least, I have two furry grandchildren, Madden and Dixie.

My Thoughts...
This was written for all of us who have been hurt, who are in pain, who have lived through disappointment. Is that you? I fit under all three of those. You get real life steps how to mend all these things and help you move forward. Craft  gives you the road map to success if you will just read and follow that map you will see changes in your life. I gave this book 4 stars and I hope that you will grab a copy and see if it changes you. 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, August 14, 2020

The Secret of Willow Inn By Pat Nichols GIVEAWAY!

Three Strangers…
Emily Hayes, an aspiring novelist, desperate to transform her dying hometown into a tourist destination. Rachel Streetman, raised in Atlanta, relegates her acting dream to secret performances for imaginary audiences to live the life her father chose. Sadie Liles grapples to find a new normal after serving a thirty-year prison sentence for killing the town hero.
Drawn together…
By tragedy, a long-held secret, and one man’s mission to plant a vineyard.
To experience…
The power of forgiveness, sacrifice, and redemption as Emily, Rachel, Sadie, and Willow Falls’ quirky, opinionated residents are forced to face the past and accept the truth.         
A shocking, heart-warming conclusion…
That leaves readers yearning to stay connected with characters who have become friends in a town that captures their imagination.

Pick up your copy here...

I launched career number two as a writer after retiring from a corporate career with Avon Products, proving it’s never too late to follow your dreams. Now I draw on twenty-seven years working with amazing women from all walks of life to write emotional stories punctuated with humor, mystery, and a touch of romance about women facing tension-laced challenges and heart-warming triumphs in pursuit of their dreams. The Willow Falls series introduces readers to a small southern town on the brink of failure, populated by an opinionated, quirky, lovable, cast of characters and will appeal to fans of Debbie Macomber, Ane Mulligan, Jan Karon and other southern writers. I'm honored to share that The Secret of Willow Inn, book one in the series, is a finalist for a 2020 Selah award, debut novel category.

I'm married to my high-school-sweetheart, am the mother of two and grandmother of four, one is with the angels. I was born in Illinois, grew up in Orlando, and have called the Atlanta area home since the eighties. When I'm not writing I enjoy reading, jigsaw puzzles, watching movies, and spending time with family and friends. One of my favorite activities is speaking to groups and reading clubs. You can reach me at patnichols@patnicholsauthor.blog

Although we love dogs, especially black labs, our pets now consist of squirrels scampering across their deck, deer traipsing through their back yard, and an occasional rabbit.

I'm a member of ACFW and Word Weavers International and have been featured on WATC Television Atlanta Alive and in Voyager Magazine http://voyageatl.com/interview/meet-pat-nichols-author-duluth/

You are welcome to come on over to my website: www.patnicholsauthor.blog or join me Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram

My Thoughts...
I love stories set in small towns. it seems like everyone is so close and cares about everyone.  This setting was perfect the characters were so likeably and easy to connect with. I am still thinking about this book weeks after reading it.  I will be sharing with the next book in this series in the next few weeks. this was a 4 star read and I hope that you will grab a copy. 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, August 13, 2020

Mentoring Moments with Myself By Michelle Hoverson

Wishing for Wisdom from Your Future Self? You Got it


What if you could walk into a room with your younger self? Imagine the mentoring moments the two of you would share. Now, you can!

It’s the human condition to wish we knew then what we know now. We all have things we would tell the younger version of ourselves if we could.
Of course, that is impossible, but what if you were able to glean wisdom from moments at the mentoring table with your younger self?
That’s exactly what Michelle Hoverson did in this book. 
Through a series of heartfelt letters to her former self, Michelle explores lessons learned from good and poor choices made in her younger years. She covers a wide array of topics dealing with faith, courage, marriage and beyond. Her insights are enhanced with wise counsel from the Bible. 
Mentoring Moments is a tool. It’s a resource for anyone seeking to enrich themselves as well as those who are leading others. Each letter is followed by a “Read and Reflect” page that invites readers to look back on their own life making this book a one-of-a-kind experience for mentor and mentee alike. 
Mentoring Moments with Myself is the intimate conversation we wish we all could have with ourselves. If you’re in the throes of becoming an adult or you love someone who is, navigate the uncertainty with Michelle’s letters to herself.

Whether you are seeking advice yourself or mentoring someone else, Mentoring Moments with Myself offers wisdom for life, faith, love, and leadership.


Pick up your copy here...

Michelle Hoverson lives with her husband, Walt, near Charlotte, NC. She is currently the Executive Director of Above & Beyond Missions, an interdenominational missions foundation dedicated to seeing the end of spiritual poverty. Prior to serving at Above & Beyond, Michelle had a pastoral career that spanned 23 years and various corporate communication positions ranging from a law firm to the White House. Michelle is driven by a passion to see every Christian serving beyond the walls of their church to make Christ real to people. You can connect with Michelle at either michelle@michellehoverson.com or through Linkedin.com/in/michellehoverson.

My Thoughts...
This was an easy read a fast read with that being said Let me tell you it has some good sage advice and it would make a wonderful small group study. 
It is sure to impact many people.
Hoverson has laid it all out there so people can learn to mentor others as will as ones self. This book has a great section where you can write your thoughts about what you have read and reflect.
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.

Wednesday, August 12, 2020

Well, Girl By Jami Amerine

If you’re skinny, fat, short, tall, or somewhere in between. . .
If you’ve ever thought that losing weight would lead to happiness. . .
If you’ve ever avoided a mirror because you didn’t want to see your reflection. . .
If you’ve found Jesus or you’re still searching. . .

Well, Girl, You’ve Come to the Right Place.
***

You’ll find a sassy, funny, authentic, and encouraging friend in master word weaver Jami Amerine, as she comes alongside you to share God’s overwhelming grace and patience in an inside-out journey to wellness. She’ll introduce you to a heavenly Father who adores you, right where you are. And she’ll let you have a peek into the insane ride of her life that led her to complete freedom after years of hating herself—while she was completely and utterly adored by Jesus.
            This transformational read will set you free. Hilarious, raw, and somehow poetic, Well, Girl offers scriptural truths, honest and thought-provoking ideas about wellness, and an in-depth look at a life free from culture’s lies—with increased self-worth, better overall health, and more confidence in your physical appearance.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Well-Girl-Inside-Out-Journey-Wellness/dp/1643525581/ref=sr_1_1?crid=4VT7O5EU83R6&dchild=1&keywords=well%2C+girl&qid=1596890352&sprefix=Well%2C+Girl%2Caps%2C288&sr=8-1

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Well-Girl-Inside-Out-Journey-Wellness/dp/1643525581/ref=sr_1_1?crid=4VT7O5EU83R6&dchild=1&keywords=well%2C+girl&qid=1596890352&sprefix=Well%2C+Girl%2Caps%2C288&sr=8-1

Hello! My name is Jami Amerine. I am wife of Justin, mom to Maggie, John (Marine-baby), Luke, Sophie, Sam & Charlie (the vandals.) I love words, chocolate, coffee, painting and Real Jesus. Justin and I have been married for 25 years... the original 4 babies are our biological children and then we started all over with foster care and adoption adding the new batch. We recently moved from our ranch in West Texas to the Houston area just in time for the launch of my first book with Harvest House, Stolen Jesus: An Unconventional Search for the Real Savior.

Other than that! Life is all, bills, babies, casseroles, cardio, a little yoga, blog posts, laundry, take out Chinese, Beastie Boys, homework, Seinfeld, laughter, tears, spilled milk, cheezits, Jesus, a walk around the block and another trip to Walmart. I love connecting with my readers and hearing all the ways our lives are similar... and completely different.

I actually wasn't a writer so I come from a place of wonder as I navigate all this insanity. In August of 2015, I had an unknown little mommy blog, I averaged about 69 views a month. In September of 2015 I put up a blog post, from my phone called An Open Letter to My Children You're Not That Great.... and that month I had 690,000 views, the next month I had a million, an agent, and a couple months later I had a two-book deal with Harvest House, so you just never know! But it has been such a fun ride. I have never had as much fun as getting to know the people that frequent my blog and social media sites.

I look forward to connecting with you too! Grace, love, and Real Jesus, Jami Amerine

My Thoughts...
If I could take the weight loss journey with anyone it would have to be Jamie.
She is not trying to have you buy into a self help book she wants to walk the journey with you.
This is a much need book, and I have so many friends that should read this book and seek the wisdom that Jamie is sharing from her heart.
I plan to reread this book many times as a positive look on this very long journey.
I gave this book 5 stars, I HIGHLY recommend it.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.