a review: land of silence

Y'all know I am a fairly avid reader. One of the hardest parts of moving from our sticks and bricks home to our RV was leaving behind my rather HUGE collection of books and periodicals! I have pretty eclectic reading tastes (much like tastes in music, crafting, decor, places to vacation, etc. are eclectic), but there are some genres that I lean toward an one of those would be historical fiction, particularly if it's Christian.

That being said, when I saw that Tessa Afshar had a new book coming out, I was anxious to get my hands on it. She's written several novels I've enjoyed in the past, Harvest of Rubies and Pearls in the Sand, to name two, so I knew Afshar's ability to tell a tale against a historical/biblical backdrop, and do it well.

Land of Silence did not disappoint. The story is set outside of Jerusalem and in Capernaum, and is that of the woman who had an issue of blood for twelve years. It can be found in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke, but the account in Luke 8 is my favorite . . .

43 And there was a woman who had had a discharge of blood for twelve years, and though she had spent all her living on physicians, she could not be healed by anyone. 44 She came up behind Him and touched the fringe of His garment, and immediately her discharge of blood ceased.45 And Jesus said, “Who was it that touched Me?” When all denied it, Peter said, “Master, the crowds surround You and are pressing in on You!” 46 But Jesus said, “Someone touched Me, for I perceive that power has gone out from Me.” 47 And when the woman saw that she was not hidden, she came trembling, and falling down before Him declared in the presence of all the people why she had touched Him, and how she had been immediately healed. 48 And He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace.”

Not a lot to go on, right?  If ever there was a passage ripe for 'embellishing', this is one!  This encounter with Jesus, set smack dab in the middle of the story of Jairus and the healing of his daughter, has always fascinated me and I've always wondered about the woman.  Who she was, why she had an issue of blood, where was her family, why couldn't the physicians heal her, and how did she come upon Jesus and think that touching His garment would heal her. And while I know the account in Land of Silence is pure speculation, it does give me some clues as to how her predicament could have come about.

Afshar does a marvelous job of weaving the tale of "Elianna" and her story as 'the woman who was healed by touching the garment of Jesus'. It was a wonderful read and I highly recommend it to fans of romance, historical fiction and Christian fiction alike!

:)

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Tyndale Publishers 

as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not required to write a positive review. 

The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal

Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and

Testimonials in Advertising.

a review -- bedtime snuggles

Still looking for the perfect little book to tuck into the Easter basket of a preschooler or toddler? I think I may have found it! Bedtime Snuggles by Patricia Reeder Eubank is a gem of a board book and sure to be appealing to children and their parents, alike!

The pages are filled with sweetly illustrated scenes of animal babies scampering home, and animal mommies tucking them in with bedtime snuggles.  The words are lyrical and soothing -- the perfect bedtime story book. The story closes with a mama tucking in her own sweet child.  A great note on which to deliver a kiss, a goodnight, and a 'sweet dreams!'

This sweet little book will definitely be going in the Easter baskets of two very darling granddaughters of my own!!

:)

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Worthy
Publishers, as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not required to write a
positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in 
accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: 

"Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

a review -- the berestain bears' easter blessings

The Berenstain Bears family have been a favorite of *our* family for a very long time. Both of my children enjoyed them immensely, and I loved the way the Bears' stories reinforced the values that we worked so hard to instill in our children. 

So when I saw The Berenstain Bears' Easter Blessings by Mike Berenstain, available for review by Worthy Publishing, I knew I wanted to read it and share it with grandchildren, too!

I was not disappointed. This sweet little board book is filled with color and perfect to be held and 'loved' by little hands.  The easy-to-turn pages are a plus, too!  The happy characters come to life on the page, as Easter morning unfolds in their home.  

The children are really excited when grandparents come by with Easter baskets filled with goodies . . . but the adults are quick to point out that Easter is more than candy . . . 

It's about being aware of all of your blessings, the greatest blessing being that of a risen Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!

I've enjoyed reading this to Ellie and Evey . . . and especially hearing Ellie read it back to me! If you're wanting to put something in the ol' Easter basket that has substance and meaning, this will be a definite hit!

Linking this up to the Bibliophile Files over at sarah did it!

:)

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Worthy
Publishers, as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not required to write a
positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in 
accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: 

"Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

a review -- all things bright and beautiful

One of my favorite hymns -- growing up and to this day -- is a sweet children's hymn penned in 1848 All Things Bright and Beautiful, by Cecil Frances Alexander.  A quick jump over to YouTube can find assorted versions of the song . . . instrumental, choral, children's choirs . . . and it's be paired with several different melodies through the ages, and transcends denominations.

It's a sweet, beautiful picture of creation and its Creator. And I was delighted when I saw that the beautiful words had been paired with lovely illustrations to make a children's book!

All Things Bright and Beautiful, by Cecil Frances Alexander and newly illustrated by Katy Hudson, is sure to be a favorite of any child. Hudson's artwork is charming and colorful, and filled with movement, color and light. It's a delightful way to share God's good earth with little children and will be a favorite bedtime 'go-to' with our grandchildren!!  And, hint-hint, a perfect Valentine's Day or Easter gift -- or just because!!

I'm also linking up with the Bibliophile Files over at sarah did it!

:)

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Worthy
Publishers, as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not required to write a
positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in 
accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: 

"Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

a review: bronner

Eight years ago, I ached and grieved along with hundreds and thousands of others for the Burgess family, as they mourned the death of their 2-1/2 year old son, Bronner.  Rick Burgess, his dad, is the the co-host of the syndicated Rick and Bubba radio show, a morning show I've listened to for years, along with tons of other people.  The show is particularly popular in the south, but carried all over the U.S.  Anyway, I was so touched by how this family handled themselves during this heart-breaking time in their lives. Rick preached the message, A Father's Heart for his son's funeral and laid out the Gospel in a way that brought many to Christ (and continues to do so).  Sherri, his wife, and Bronner's mom, poured out her thoughts and feelings in her blog -- a blog I know was helpful to my own daughter, when she lost her Everett. This very public family grieved in a manner that honored Christ, and when I learned that Sherri Burgess had written a book, Bronner: A Journey to Understand, I knew I would want to read it.

I was not disappointed.  This book is the outpouring of a mama's heart . . . the desperate desire to understand the crazy 'why' of the loss of a child.  And with beautiful transparency, Sherri walks through her experience.  From the set-up of their idyllic family and life, to the panic-filled moments surrounding Bronner's death, and through the grief, healing, and spiritual growth that's taken place in the years following.

But Bronner is more than just Sherri's story.  It's God's story. How He opened the collective eyes of the Burgess family; how He taught them to walk in faith and trust in a way they'd never had to before. How He burdened Rick and Sherri with the knowledge that there were so many lives that were destined for eternal death unless they came to a saving knowledge of Christ.  It's a story about God's grace and His mercy and His redemption.  It's hard story to read - I cried more times than I can count - but it's also a beautiful story to read. God's sovereignty and love for His people shine through.

Bronner: A Journey to Understand, releases today.  I highly recommend it -- it will change you.

:)

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from New Hope
Publishers, as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not required to write a
positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in 
accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: 

"Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

books galore . . .

Whenever there's a new month (rabbit, rabbit), a Bibliophile Files post is sure to turn up! Seeing as how the linky party over at sarah did it! is on the first Tuesday of every month, that is!

A New Year generally equals a new reading challenge, but I decided I didn't want to necessarily go there in 2016.  I'm going to go with the book flow and be all loosey-goosey!

That being said (there's always a caveat, isn't there?!), our church is reading through the Bible together in 2016, with a suggested reading plan, and I am taking *that* challenge! In addition to that, this month I've got the following reads on my 'book plate' . . .

Count It All Joy by Dr. David Jeremiah.  Rather appropriate, don't you think? I've been an admirer of Dr. Jeremiah's works for many years. Though this book is based on the book of Philippians, rather than the specific passage from James that admonishes us to, "count it all joy", I'm still positive that it will prove a worthy and challenging book. This read is for a review, so I'll be sharing my thoughts on it later this month. The title releases on February 1.

I shared that Todd had given me Victoria The Essential Tea Companion: Favorite Recipes for Tea Parties and Celebrations by Kim Waller for Christmas. I'll continue to page through it this month as we prepare for a BIG tea party event next month!

In keeping with the *tea* theme, I've got a new kindle read: Relaxing Over Afternoon Tea (Abbey Cooks Entertain) (Volume 3) by Pamela J. Foster of Downton Abbey Cooks (blog) fame! The book is filled with lovely tidbits and recipes and tea necessities! A great book for musing over a cup of tea!! Downton Abbey fans will love this book (and her blog, too).

And finally, for this month, I will faithfully pour over my January/February TeaTime Magazine. This is my all-time favorite magazine! This month features a story about Downton Abbey, a Valentine's tea party, the history of Bigelow tea (which was an interesting read) and many other fascinating items (as well as loads of beautiful tea ware and china pictures). Another afternoon read to pair with a cup of hot tea!

So, that's enough it for me!  What are you reading this month?  Any reading challenges for the New Year? Be sure to stop by Sarah's blog to see what she and everyone else are reading!!

:)

a review -- the sparkle box . . .

When Worthy Publishing contacted me with an opportunity to review a children's Christmas book, I jumped on the opportunity.  Being a lover of all things Christmas . . . especially when they're faith-based . . . I  looked forward to reading the story and determining if it was indeed a 'grandchildren' worthy tale.  In the case of The Sparkle Box, I was not just not disappointed, I was thrilled!

The Sparkle Box, written by Jill Hardie and beautifully illustrated by Christine Kornacki, grabbed my heart with the first read.  I sat in my car in the post office parking lot after receiving it--I couldn't even wait to get home--and as I read through it, I knew this was a story I wanted to share with my grandchildren.  This was a story I could see becoming an annual read for their families and a beloved part of our Christmas season's traditions.  The message -- that when we do for those less fortunate than ourselves, we do for Jesus -- is timeless and integral to the spirit of Christmas!

The true test came as I presented the book to granddaughter Ellie, on Thanksgiving.  She loved having it read to her and was as intrigued by the pretty "sparkle box" as was Sam, the story's main character! They've already put their sparkle box (which came with the book) together!

While I was gifted a copy in exchange for my honest review, I purchased a second copy of The Sparkle Box, so that *all* of my grandchildren could enjoy the story! 

I plan on purchasing a third copy to keep at my house -- it was that darling!

I highly recommend this book . . . it should become a Christmas classic. It's wonderfully written, the illustrations are gorgeous, and it touches the heart.  Five stars and two thumbs up!

Joining the "Bibliophile Files" linky party at sarah did it!

:)

book review: experiencing spiritual breakthroughs

This was a fabulous read.  I've read other work by Dr. Bruce A. Wilkerson, and so when offered the opportunity to read Experiencing Spiritual Breakthroughs I jumped on it.  He writes with clarity and uses Scripture as the basis for everything he lays out.  I found myself highlighting 'light bulb passages" nearly every page.  This is a book I'll go back to again and again in my daily walk with Christ; I highly recommend it!

:)

Disclaimer:  I was provided an electronic copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

that tuesday . . .

I can hardly believe it's February already . . . and the first *Tuesday* in February to boot, which means it's Bibliophile Files day!! That means it's the day that I share with you what I've got on my bookshelf for the coming month, yay!

Along with the devotional reading I talked about last month, which I'll be reading through all year long, I've got a good mix of fiction and non-fiction that I'm going to enjoy this month, three of which I'll also be reading to review.  The first up is The Friendships of Women by Dee Brestin.  I snapped this up from Amazon yesterday as a kindle freebie!  It's still showing as a freebie for now, so if it sounds interesting, you might want to scoot on over there by clicking HERE! As a woman who not only enjoys her friendships with other women, but is also called to women's ministry, I thought this was a no-brainer for me!

Next up is Patsy Clairmont's You Are More Than You Know.  I first learned of Patsy Clairmont at a Women of Faith conference in 1998.  She was funny and witty and spot-on in her observations, and I'm not only looking forward to reading You Are More Than You Know, but reviewing it and participating in the book's blog tour in March! (And ... hint, hint ... a giveaway!)

And now on to the fiction.  You may or may not have picked up on the fact that I adore, in particular, Amish fiction. Well, if you hadn't picked up on it, this month it's rather 'plain' (pun intended)!  These three selections are all reviewable (so look for more on each title later this month):

An Amish Cradle, a collection of four stories by Beth Wiseman, Amy Clipston, Kathleen Fuller, and Vannetta Chapman, respectively.  

Then on to The Amish Clockmaker, by Mindy Starns Clark and Susan Meissner.

And finally, The Beekeeper's Son, by Kelly Irvin, which I'm purposefully saving until last because it sounds *so* interesting!

So, my proverbial shelf is full . . . looking forward to reading (and sharing reviews, too) through February! Hop on over to sarah did it! to see what she's reading and to check out the Bibliophile Files linky party!

Happy reading and remember . . . “Books are the quietest and most constant of friends; they are the most accessible and wisest of counselors, and the most patient of teachers.” ― Charles William Eliot

:)

april's bibliophile files . . .

Happy APRIL FOOLS' DAY!! I think the big joke is on those people who still have snow on the first day of April!!  Being that it's the first Tuesday of the month, it's also time for the Bibliophile Files . . .

And that's no joke!!

I finished up all my March books and will be doing several reviews over the next few Saturdays. This month, my books practically chose themselves! My challenge is to read four books from the following categories: books that have been recommended, books I've borrowed from the lending library, books I'm reviewing (blogging for books), and books that are faith/walk strengtheners.  So let's see what I've chosen (or rather, what chose me) . . .

This month's review book will be one of Beverly Lewis's--a favorite author who specializes in Amish fiction. It's book five in the Hickory Hollow series, The Last Bride. I've followed this series from beginning to end, so I'm looking forward to getting started on it! It's a new release, too, as of this morning!

A Rooster Once Crowed by Bryant Cornett is my "recommended book".  I've heard good things about the both the author and the book and decided this month, the month of Easter, was a particularly good time to give it a read.  I have to admit, I've already started turning the Kindle pages on this one -- it's going to be a quick read!  (As of this morning, it was a freebie on Amazon, too!)

One of my favorite movies is Julie & Julia -- the story of a blogger (Julie Powell) who cooks/blogs her way through Julia Child's Mastering the Art of French Cooking.  I'm tickled to say that Joc has a copy of MAFC and I will be looking through it today (Ellie Day!  YAY!!) for a recipe for potage parmentier, aka potato and leek soup.  But that's a story for another post, non?!  When I saw my e-library had a digital copy of the book available for check out, I decided to grab it.

And finally, my faith strengthening book for this month will be Francis Chan's Forgotten God.  We just started a new series in Sunday school and this is the book our series is based on.  Our teacher (who is also our pastor) recommended we get and read the book, so I will. (I was always that kind of student!)  I've read several of Francis Chan's other books and so I know this one will be terrific. This is a freebie for Amazon prime users!

So, that's where my nose will be for the next several weeks . . . what about yours??!  Be sure to head over to sarah did it! and see what else is coming off the bookshelves for the month of April!!

:)

a review: i, saul . . .

When Worthy Publishers presented the opportunity to read and review I, Saul, by Jerry Jenkins (with James S. MacDonald), it was another no-brainer for me.  Aside from the line of Left Behind books that Jenkins had co-authored with Tim LaHaye, I was well-versed with Jenkins' fiction and knew it would be a good read.  I was wrong.

It was a GREAT read.  This tale had the spy-action-intrigue I really enjoy in modern novels, as well as telling a dual historical tale . . . one based heavily on Scripture . . . the account of Paul in Nero's prison in Rome and the ministry of certain disciples to him -- and a lesser known tale of Paul's childhood and the events that made him who he was.

The modern story line follows a young seminary professor, Augustine Knox, who gets involved in the finding and subsequent heist of a new, first century parchment, supposedly written in Paul's own hand -- it begins with "I, Saul . . .". As corrupt government officials and antiquities dealers scramble to gain possession, Knox and his connections work to find the scroll and put it in the hands of those who would 'use it for good'. 

It's a gripping story and I really enjoyed going back and forth between the first century and the twenty-first century, seeing the content of the scroll played out in early history, as modern day heroes struggled to protect its integrity.

I have my hardback review copy which I'm happy to gift to someone who'd enjoy reading I, Saul ... leave me a comment and let me know you're interested!  This would make an ideal read for Spring Break, which is right around the corner!

:)

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Worthy 
Publishers, as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not required to write a
positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in 
accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: 

"Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

march's bibliophile files . . .

I think I've finally settled into a nice routine for posting . . . one I can live with and have some breathing room. I like to post on Mondays ... get my week geared up, show off my design wall (or not, as the case may be). Come back again on Wednesdays with a mid-week update (and share my grandchildren antics) and close out Friday with fluff, fur and felines.  I'm trying to schedule a book review every Saturday (I have some catching up to do) and I actually do double-duty on Saturdays by pre-writing/scheduling my Stash Report/15 Minutes Report/Slow Sunday Stitching post.

That being said, it *is* the first Tuesday of the month and that means it's time for the Bibliophiles Files Challenge that is being hosted by sarah did it!

I aced last month's challenge like a champ and even had time to do some extraneous reading -- and not just magazines.  LOL!  This month's lineup is another good one and I'm already well on my way towards busting my challenge. 

For my review book, I'm challenging myself to two (though I hope to actually review four).  One is a hard copy I just received from Moody Publishers, The Art of Story Telling: Easy Steps to Presenting An Unforgettable Story by John Walsh. Doesn't that sound interesting? 

The second review book is one from Spiegel & Grau publishers, due for release April, 2014. It's called

The Frangipani Hotel by Violet Kupersmith and is a compilation of stories that grapple with the legacy of the Vietnam War. It's not my usual fare, but something about this one struck me. Perhaps I've seen Miss Saigon too many times.  Or I liked the way Frangipani sounds in my head.  ;)

My recommended book this month comes (again) by way of one of my favorite tea bloggers, Angela McRae, who recommended Serendiptea: A Guide To The Varieties, Origins, And Rituals Of Tea by Tomislav Podreka, in a blog post a couple of years ago. I was stalking scrolling through her blog last month and stumbled upon her review.  I then quickly found a used copy for pennies on Amazon and scooped it up.

I also have two library books this month, but mostly because I got them both on March 1 and finished the first and am halfway through the second.  Yes.  Both are that good!  The first was The Dressmaker by Kate Albott.  A great historical fiction read based on the congressional inquiry that followed the sinking of the Titanic.  Albott is a terrific storyteller and masterfully handled weaving truth with fiction.  I highly recommend it.

My second library book is another one compliments of Davis Bunn, My Soul To Keep. Unlike his last three, which were filled with intrigue, action and thrills, this one is based on the resurgence of an actor who demolished his career (and another's) after too many drinks and a horrific car accident.  I'll finish this one lickety-split!

The last part of my monthly challenge is a book that speaks to strengthening my faith/walk.  I chose The Christian Atheist: Believing in God but Living As If He Doesn't Exist by Craig Groeschel.  We're walking through this series in my Sunday School class and I wanted to read his book.  (Yes, I'm *that* student.)

So, there's my "March Madness" lineup . . . what are you reading this month? Head on over and share your tall tales with the March Bibliophiles Files linky party!

:)

a review: strait of hormuz

I've been a huge fan of Davis Bunn (or T. Davis Bunn as he was known in the earlier years) for quite some time. He's got an incredible range of fiction appeal: mysteries, spy/intrigue, romance, and just a downright good story.  So when I went searching for my "review" book for February's Bibliophiles Files, I didn't have to go far before my eye caught his title, Strait of Hormuz on the review list. And since it's the third in the Marc Royce series (along with Lion of Babylon and Rare Earth -- which were also part of February's B.F. challenge), I decided it was the perfect choice.

Interestingly enough, because I knew I'd be reviewing Strait of Hormuz I choose to read it first, even though it was the third in the series.  I'm *very* happy to report that it read well as a standalone and if you haven't read the first two books (you should), it will not impair the readability!

Strait of Hormuz starts out with a literal bang and never slows down.  When Hy Smith, Senior Vice President, United National Pictures, said, "Davis Bunn has created a thinking person's Indiana Jones," he wasn't kidding.  With activity that could have been pulled from recentl headlines, Bunn does a fabulous job of creating a story line that is compelling and intriguing and keeps you on your toes. 

Marc Royce is a fabulous leading character, full of integrity and humanity and straight up undercover operative.  I have to admit, though, I think he's got the super power of incredible patience and self-control! There's also just enough romance in this one to keep situations interesting . . . but it is definitely not overpowering.  From Switzerland to France to the Middle East, this action thriller will definitely keep your interest.

Bunn does a fabulous job of fleshing out characters, making them believable and likable ... or not.  As soon as I finished the last word of Strait of Hormuz, I went right to the first in the series and devoured it and the second one, as well!

Highly recommended and five stars on this one!

:)

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this ebook free from Bethany House 
Publishers, as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not required to write a
positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in 
accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: 

"Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

a review - unglued devotional: 60 days of imperfect progress . . .

I have long been a fan of Lysa Terkeurst.  She is an amazing woman, member of the Proverbs 31 team and a straight-to-the-heart-of-matters kind of author.  So it was a no-brainer for me when I was offered the opportunity to read and review Unglued Devotional: 60 Days of Imperfect Progress. 

The devotional is a companion piece to her book, Unglued.  And it's perfect.  After I'd read Unglued, I walked through the devotional and was so pleased to have daily, bite-sized chunks of wisdom to continue to ponder. The companion devotional reinforces all the treasures she covers in the book, opening daily with a Scripture verse, a daily *thought*, a couple of paragraphs of devotional material and a closing prayer.  A fantastic way to start off a day!  Lysa is honest and transparent and while she doesn't pull punches--let's face it, we're all imperfect people trying to function in an imperfect world with lots of other imperfect people!--she's also very compassionate and empathetic in her dialogue.  While there were many times the words resonated with me, leaving me feeling quite convicted, I never felt condemned. Instead, the devotions are inspiring and give hope.

I highly recommend this devotional -- even if you haven't read Unglued.  The material is cohesive and well-written and *so* meaningful!

And I've got a giveaway copy, too -- so if you're interested, leave me a comment and I'll select a winner on Tuesday.

:)

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Tyndale Publishers,
 as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not required to write a positive review. 
The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the 
Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: 

"Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

a review - His Treasure: Gems of Love from Your King

This week's review of His Treasure: Gems of Love from Your King by Sheri Rose Shepherd was an easy one.  It's a sweet little book filled with encouraging words straight from Scripture that are meant to remind daughters of the High King that they are valued and esteemed.

The format is very appealing -- set with pretty pictures of girly-treasure on words written on 'parchment' -- the pages go back and forth between passages of Scripture to sweet notes from the Father.  It's definitely written for the feminine reader.

The author, Sheri Rose, has a number of titles to her credit and she does a marvelous job of communicating God's love and esteem for His children.

The book is small -- to fit perfectly by your bed for that "first thing in the morning" (or last thing in the evening?) pep talk -- or perhaps in your desk drawer at work, for when you need a little help in "overcoming" -- or need something to focus on while you count to ten! It's also perfect for gift-giving.

I found it to be thoroughly Scripture-based, honest and encouraging and enjoyed reading through it.  I would definitely recommend it to others.  I have a copy to give away, so if you're interested, let me know in a comment and I'll pick a winner on Tuesday.

:)

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Tyndale Publishers,
 as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not required to write a positive review. 
The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the 
Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: 

"Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

wow, snow blow out . . .

Lesson learned.  Usually I don't let myself get all worked up by the weather forecasts. But they were all so sure and hyped up about the 'snowmageddon' of North Alabama, that I bought into it. I mean gosh ... GROCERY STORES closed their doors EARLY last night in anticipation of the event. Plus we'd already had a lovely dusting that they *weren't* expecting on Tuesday morning . . . 

So, against my better judgment, I bought into it.  Serves me right . . . I am SO disappointed!!  We woke up this morning to *nothing* ... blah ... and now it's raining ... blah.  And while they continue to pitch the snow, it continues to rain. Again, blah.  Blah, blah, BLAH!!!

On a (much) brighter note, I not only finished piecing my snowflake . . .

(Yes, that's the actual, not a photoshop illusion!) I also went ahead and got it quilted and bound!

My quilting was some very simple stitch-in-the-ditch quilting around the snowflake and the outer pieces. With sparkly thread.  :)  I'm calling it Midnight Snow.  It's all the snow I've got.  LOL!

I've also made some progress on my Celtic knot garden . . .

Working on the hedge knots, now.  Tedious, but it'll be worth it in the end!  One thing I quickly learned with the colonial knot is that shorter working thread is better. I'm working a line of the hedges until I catch up to myself.  Then I'll start the other side.  I have to admit, I'm looking forward to getting to the French knots!

And hey -- today is the last opportunity to make a comment and enter to win a copy of Shades of Mercy! Click HERE for a chance to win!

Linking up today to Esther Aliu's WIPs on Wednesdays (WOW)!

:)

a review: shades of mercy

I just finished up Shades of Mercy by Anita Lustrea and Caryn Rivadeneira as my January "book review" read (part of my Bibliophile Files challenge). I wasn't sure what to expect, because I'd never read anything by either of the two authors, but when Moody Publishers contacted me and offered me the opportunity to read and review the book, I eagerly responded, "Yes!"

A quick review of the authors on their Amazon listings let me know that they were both women after my own heart, particularly Lustrea, who's quoted as being a "self identified hot tea snob". Good enough for me! :)

This was a wonderful, coming-of-age read.  In addition, it was historical fiction, which is one of my favorite genres.  The story covers a period of time in Maine's history when native Maliseets (among other Indian tribes) had been pushed out of their homes and land and into terrible living conditions, and then the push to restoration. It's not a part of American history I was familiar with, and so I found the story all the more fascinating.

The main characters are Mercy Millar, the young daughter of a well-established (and well-respected) farming family, and Mick--a Maliseet boy--who is a farmhand that works for the Millars.  Mercy and Mick practically grow up together on the farm until the day that their friendship blossoms into young love.  Not an acceptable pairing in the eyes of the community.

The story takes us through the paranoia, strife and anger that are typical when racial tensions escalate.  But throughout it all, the Millar family clings close to a Christian belief that all are created equal in the sight of God, and all are deserving of His mercy and grace.  And then the Millars take it to that next step and actually do something about it.  

The book trailer does a great job of giving a teasing overview of the story:

Not your typical boy-meets-girl romance fluff -- Shades of Mercy was a wonderful, thoughtful read and left me wanting more.  Based on the prologue and the epilogue (the epilogue completely took me by surprise -- by that time I'd forgotten the three page prologue that started the story off), and the "A Maine Chronicle" subtitle, perhaps I'll be in luck and a follow-up story will ensue!

I highly recommend Shades of Mercy *and* if you're interested, I have FOUR copies to give away!  Leave me a comment letting me know you're interested. Hey, and for my fabulous followers, established or new, let me know in a second comment how you follow and you get *two* chances to win!  I'll wrap this up next Thursday, February 13.

:)

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from River North Fiction, 

a division of  Moody Publishers, as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not 

required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am

disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: 

"Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.