Showing posts with label Non-Fiction. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Non-Fiction. Show all posts

10.13.2023

Star of Wonder ~ Review

Star of Wonder JustRead Takeover + Review JustRead

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for 
 Star of Wonder by Angela Hunt 

Star of Wonder

Star of Wonder 
By Angela Hunt 

Star of Wonder takes the reader into the little-known, forgotten truths of the First Christmas. Spend the days of December taking a new look at what the world Jesus was born into was really like. 

But this is more than just a collection of dry facts broken into 25 readings. No, this is much more. Star of Wonder goes into detail about the various aspects, people, places, and their significance into the whole of what we consider the Nativity story. This story began with the Creation of a Garden and the gift of free will. A gift that was poorly used, as demonstrated by humanity's first decision to sin. This decision, this choice freely given, was the catalyst of a thread throughout history that brought about both Jesus's birth and His death.

This book is broken into four parts so that it can be experienced not only on a daily basis but so one's family can add a weekly touch to the Advent season. The four parts focus on different aspects of the story: Places, Prophecies, People, and Purpose. Altogether, one comes away with a deeper, richer understanding of the story that has run through much of HIStory. A story that will only mean something IF you believe.

* The one issue/concern that could be raised is the author's statement: "Scripture leads me to believe that Jesus was born with the same free will and tendency towards sin that you and I were born with. Which makes His resistance to temptation-not only on one occasion but throughout His life-all the more amazing. If He was born with a sin nature like all people, He never once surrendered to sin, even as a child."

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book

Title: Star of Wonder 
Author: Angela Hunt 
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers 
Release Date: September 26, 2023 
Genre: Advent Devotional 

Come, Rediscover the Wonder and Reality of the Very First Christmas 

We all love the Christmas season, but have we buried the truth of the day? 

Bestselling author Angela Hunt weaves together visceral storytelling with overlooked biblical historical truths to help you rediscover the places, people, prophecies, and purpose of Christmas. Each of the engaging twenty-five devotions includes scriptural insights, historical facts, and personal application, which--along with weekly family activities--will have everyone saying, "I didn't know that!" as the Nativity comes to life anew. 

Explore Bethlehem and Nazareth. Walk with Mary, Joseph, and others. Be amazed by the words of the prophets of old. And be warmed by God's great purpose that culminated in the birth of the Messiah. 

Star of Wonder is perfect as an individual Advent devotional or for family and small group study. You will see Christmas with new eyes, create lasting holiday memories, and shine a light on the wonder of that night so long ago. 

"This Advent devotional is written with passion, showing patterns and prophecies that filled me with renewed hope and wonder."--FRANCINE RIVERS, bestselling author of The Lady's Mine and Redeeming Love

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | Christianbook | BookBub

Also Available

Daughter of Cana The Shepherd's Wife A Woman of Words

The Apostle's Sister The Woman from Lydia


About the Author

Angela Hunt

Angela Hunt is a New York Times bestselling author of more than 160 books, with nearly 6 million copies sold worldwide. Angela's novels have won or been nominated for the RWA RITA Award, the Christy Award, the ECPA Christian Book Award, and the HOLT Medallion. Four of her novels have received ForeWord Magazine's Book of the Year Award, and Angela is the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from both the Romantic Times Book Club and ACFW. Angela holds doctorates in biblical studies and theology. She and her husband make their home in Florida with mastiffs and chickens.

Connect with Angela by visiting angelahuntbooks.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.


Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will receive one Angela Hunt book released by Bethany House Publishers from the last two years (winner's choice)!

Star of Wonder JustRead Giveaway

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. The full tour schedule is linked below. The giveaway began at midnight on October 11, 2023, and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on October 18, 2023. The winner will be notified within 2 weeks of the close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of the prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

The giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway


Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Publicity Tours

7.11.2023

Jane Austen’s Little Book of Wisdom ~ Review

Jane Austen’s Little Book of Wisdom
    Words on Love, Life, Society, and Literature
By Jane Austen
Compiled by Andrea Kirk Assaf

Who hasn't heard of Jane Austen? Read a book she's written? Or watched a movie or miniseries based on one of her books? I would hazard a guess that there are few who have access to any of the aforementioned media who have no knowledge of her. I know that my first introduction to Jane Auster was when my great aunt sent our family an illustrated children's edition of this book because it too had 5 sisters whose last name was Bennett.

This book would be a lovely gift for someone new to the works of Jane Austin or one who's very familiar with her writing. I love the compact size of this book, it's perfect for slipping into a pocket or a purse, so it is readily available when you need to refer to Jane's wisdom. 

I found the following quote to be extremely appropriate, "She always travels with her own sheets; an excellent precaution." Having one's own sheets would provide excellent assurances that the strange bed one is using is indeed a fresh change. Though it would require additional luggage, to be sure. For it is, "Better to be without sense than to misapply it..."

I love how the various quotes are taken from her published works and letters she exchanged with her sister. These quotes are then divided into eight sections based on the feelings that they project or elicit. Keep this close at hand, it is sure to a conversation starter.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

  Quick Facts About the Book:

Title: Jane Austen’s Little Book of Wisdom: Words on Love, Life, Society, and Literature
Author: Jane Austen
Compiled by: Andrea Kirk Assaf
Genre: Literary Quotes, Self Help, Gift Books
Publisher: ‎Hampton Roads Publishing (March 1, 2023)
Length: (400) pages
Format: Trade paperback and eBook 
ISBN: 978-1642970494

 Tour Dates: July 10-24, 2023


About the Book:

The ultimate companion for the Jane Austen fan filled with her penetrating
insights and humor on life, love, and death.

Jane Austen is one of the most popular female writers in history, best known for her
stories of love, loss, and hope, which are cleverly intertwined with her witty insights into
the traits and expectations of English Georgian society.
 
Here, in this stunning little book, you will be able to read hundreds of individual quotes
from her famous works—from Pride and Prejudice and Emma to Persuasion and Sense
and Sensibility—each prompting an emotional response, thoughtful musing, or even a
little snigger at the wise and shrewd perceptions that Austen had of the world around
her.

Utterly charming and very profound, fans of Jane Austen can revel in these much-loved
quotes, while a new audience will be introduced to the joys that her books have
provided since their publication many years ago. With each chapter focusing on a
different theme—from Love and Longing to Female Strength—this gorgeous gift book is
the perfect compilation of Austen’s funny, moving, and thought-provoking words.
 

Content of themes:

❤️ Love and Longing
❤️ Friendship
❤️ Society
❤️ Female Strength
❤️ Life and Death
❤️ Faith
❤️ Art and Literature
Image from book


Praise for Jane Austen’s Little Book of Wisdom

~ “A valuable resource for any Austen lover to use for quick reference or to read
through.” —Library Journal

~ “It’s a lovely way to spend a little time each day revisiting and reflecting on
Austen’s beloved works without embarking on a full reread—and also to test your
ability to peg each isolated quote to specific events in its respective story. Feel
free to invite your fellow Austenites over and turn it into a full-fledged trivia
game.” —Mental Floss

~ “For Austen fans and lovers of wise words, Jane Austen’s Little Book of Wisdom:
Words on Love, Life, Society, and Literature compiled by Andrea Kirk Assaf,
provides a genuine treasure trove. Assaf has curated a wonderful collection here,
her other works encompassing popes and saints, precisely in line with the
reverence Austen deserves.” —NewPages.com

~ “This lovely book will provide a daily diet of Austen sensibility every day of the
year. My vote: 4 out of 4 teacups.” —JaneAustensWorld.com



Purchase Links:

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Bookshop | Goodreads | Bookbub


Author Bios:

Jane Austen was an English novelist known primarily for her six major novels, which
interpret, critique and comment upon the British landed gentry at the end of the 18th
century. Austen's plots often explore the dependence of women on marriage in the
pursuit of favourable social standing and economic security.

Andrea Kirk Assaf is an editor, journalist, and translator who divides her time between
Rome and Michigan.

4.08.2023

Rise Today ~ Review

Rise Today: 
Trusting God and His Promise
By Jason F. Wright


This book offers hope. The first page opens with three words, words of promise. What are those words, you ask? 

HE.
IS. 
RISEN.

Words that you can take inspiration from, Words that will inspire you to rise above the problems and doubts of today.

This small book looks like a perfect gift, but it is more as it offers the reader encouragement in the face of day-to-day struggles we all face. But we can overcome the mindset that we have allowed to control and dictate our daily path. According to the author, we have a choice to allow Christ more fully into our life or not. If we decide to align our lives with the risen Lord, we need to pray, read God's Word (the Bible), listen to sacred music, worship with others, and serve others.

This book is short, sweet, and to the point. The illustrations are mainly soft, soothing colors that complement the thoughts being portrayed. In my opinion, this book is appropriate for all ages because everyone needs encouragement at some point in life.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.                                                                                         


About the Book:

Almost everyone gets the doldrums at some level, whether from heartache, despair, or simply feeling that life isn’t what they had planned. Author Jason F. Wright invites readers to rise above life’s challenges with a message of hope, offering specific counsel and advice he’s learned through personally striving to live a Christ-centered life and through worshipping with many different congregations across the United States.

About the Author:

Jason F. Wright is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of eighteen books. He lives with his wife, Kodi, and their children in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia.



Other Books by Jason F. Wright:

The James Miracle                             Christmas Jars
Christmas Jars Reunion                     Christmas Jars Journey
Penny’s Christmas Jar Miracle          Recovering Charles
The Cross Gardener                           The Seventeen-Second Miracle
The 13th Day of Christmas                The Wednesday Letters
The Wedding Letters                           Picturing Christmas
The Christmas Jukebox                      Even the Dog Knows
Until You Find Strength

Available at these retailers (and more!)

     



11.10.2022

RELEASE DAY for Gossamers and Wisps

 Today I'm celebrating the release of

Gossamers and Wisps


Enjoy this book for FREE if you have 
Kindle KU!

Reviews are always appreciated.

About the Book:
A collection of poetry that examines family, life, and the world around us. 
A lovely small collection for moments of quiet and reflection.

Includes Tiny Wings, Shadows of Light, In Twilight's Fading Light
Ebony, Hold Me Until the Morrow, and nine additional poems.

I have to admit Shadows of Light and Hold Me Until the Morrow
are my personal favorites.

But when you read the book please reply to this post or email me 
and let me know what your favorite is and why.




10.07.2022

Getting Past the Publishing Gatekeepers ~ Spotlight with Excerpt and Giveaway

Getting Past the Publishing Gatekeepers JustRead Blog Blitz 

Welcome to the Blog Blitz for Getting Past the Publishing Gatekeepers by Hope Bolinger, Linda Fulkerson, Rowena Kuo, and Carrie Schmidt, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Getting Past the Publishing Gatekeepers Title: Getting Past the Publishing Gatekeepers 
Authors: Hope Bolinger, Linda Fulkerson, Rowena Kuo, and Carrie Schmidt 
Publisher: Scrivenings Press LLC 
Release Date: October 11, 2022 
Genre: Nonfiction / Writing

Remember when Dorothy finally reached the Emerald City only to be halted by the Gatekeeper, blocking her hopes of seeing the Great and Powerful Wizard?

The path to publication is like that. Agents, and Editors, and Publishers, oh, my! 

Each one is a barrier between you and a publishing contract. 

 But what if you understood what agents, editors, publishers, and readers really want? 

 If you’re struggling to get past the publishing gatekeepers, this book will give you a behind-the-scenes peek at how to win the heart of each type of publishing professional. In fact, Getting Past the Publishing Gatekeepers won’t just give you a peek—it will give you a guided tour. In this book, four publishing professionals—an agent, a publisher, an editor, and an influencer—share what it takes to unlock each “gate” within the publishing industry. 

 Getting Past the Publishing Gatekeepers is a must-have resource for all aspiring authors, and it offers insights to help multi-published authors as well. 

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes and Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound | BookBub

Subscribe to the Publishing Gatekeepers newsletter and receive a tip sheet on 

12 ways for getting past the gatekeepers.


.

Excerpt


~ from the section on editors, written by Rowena Kuo
At writers’ conferences, I expect to see rough drafts, as that is a big part of the experience.
Authors go to conferences to learn and receive help with their manuscripts. However, before
you submit your work to an agent or a publishing house, I recommend that you get your
manuscript edited and polished. A freelance developmental or content editor can help with
that process. They point out loopholes in your story, may suggest rearrangement of chapters,
or strengthening of your plot, conflict, and characters.

Where do you find freelance editors? We come in all genres and all budgets. You can find us on
social media, through referrals from other writers, and you can find us at writers conferences. A
developmental edit can cost you between $300-$2500, depending on word count and the time
it would take to edit your book. If writing your novel takes you a year or more, having it edited
could take just as long. Be patient. Before you obtain the help of a content editor, a way to
improve your manuscript would be for you, the author, to become a Master of Firsts.

How many numbers are there between 0 and 1? As there is an infinite number between 0 and
1, so, too, are there infinite word combinations to consider before you even write your first
sentence. A Master of Firsts recognizes the gift of infinity to lift the limits off how the story
comes to life. What separates failure and greatness fall to just one word: and.                                                                           

What is your and? With what content will you fill your pages? There is infinity between failure
and greatness. “And” equals infinity. Decide now that failure is not an option.

You have only one chance to make a first impression, so the opening lines of your work need to
have impact. The first sentence intrigues the reader, must be compelling enough to hold the
reader’s attention, and may or may not be its own paragraph. The first sentence introduces the
author’s voice. The first line, which sets the tone, can be a quote from a character, and may be
in the middle of an action. A Master of Firsts draws the reader in by the first paragraph. Every
word matters, so don’t waste any. Use strong, active verbs.

An ideal first page has between 100-300 words. You are developing a relationship with your
reader. With your words, you are painting a picture of what your characters are experiencing.
This establishes a dialogue between you and your reader. Your first page should also establish
your Point of View (POV) character.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Hope Bolinger Linda Fulkerson Rowena Kuo Carrie Schmidt

Hope Bolinger is an acquisitions editor at End Game Press and the author of 21 books. She's contributed to 10 other books, in addition, including Getting Past the Gatekeepers. She loves to model, do theater, and get lost in the woods.

Connect with Hope by visiting hopebolinger.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.


USMC veteran Linda Fulkerson began her writing career as a copyeditor and typesetter at a small-town weekly newspaper. She has since been published in several magazines and newspapers, including a two-year stint as a sportswriter and later the online editor of a midsize daily. Linda also served as the director of digital services for the largest media outlet in central Texas. She is the author of two novels, two novellas, and several nonfiction books. In 2020, she founded Scrivenings Press LLC, a traditional publisher of clean and Christian books. 

Linda and her husband, Don, live on a ten-acre plot in central Arkansas. They are part of an RV ministry group and travel the country volunteering at various entities. Linda and Don have four adult children and eight grandchildren. In addition to kicking back in her recliner with a good book, Linda enjoys photography, travel, and spoiling her two dachshunds. 

Connect with Linda by visiting scriveningspress.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.   


Rowena Kuo is the CEO and Executive Editor for Brimstone Fiction, Brimstone Books and Media, and Brimstone Fire. With over 15 years of ministering to children, youth groups, young adults, women, and family groups, Rowena advocates for writers to build God-centered support systems consisting of people, perseverance, practice, and most of all, prayer. She has written for Christian Devotions, Written World Communications, Splickety, and the 168 Write of Passage. When not working on words or films, she is a full-time mom with secret aspirations for spaceflight. 

Connect with Rowena by visiting www.brimstonefiction.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.   


  Carrie Schmidt is an avid reader, book reviewer, story addict, KissingBooks fan, book boyfriend collector, and cool aunt. She also loves Jesus and THE Story a whole lot. Carrie started the popular blog ReadingIsMySuperPower.org in 2015 and since then has had the honor of co-founding the Christian Fiction Readers' Retreat and JustRead Publicity Tours. In addition to these endeavors, she is a regular contributor to Seekerville and has written for magazines such as RT Book Reviews and Christian Market. Carrie now lives in Georgia with her husband, though her roots range from East Tennessee to Central Kentucky and northern Illinois. 

Connect with Carrie by visiting readingismysuperpower.org to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a $40 Amazon gift card.

Getting Past the Publishing Gatekeepers JustRead Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 5, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 12, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE


Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Publicity Tours

10.03.2022

The Orphan Keeper ~ Review

The Orphan Keeper
Adapted for Young Readers 
By Camron Wright

Chellamuthu had a family but, like many left to their own devices, was getting himself into the wrong crowd. This unfortunate troublemaking group of boys leads to Chellamuthu being stolen off the streets of his village in India. When Chellamuthu is bartered off to a home for orphans, he tries to get those in charge to realize that he has a family and needs to get home. 

But Chellamuthu is a commodity who is about to be sent to a family wanting a child. But not to a family in India but one far away in America. Years pass, and Chellamuthu becomes a blending of his old and new life with a new identity and a new family. But can he truly leave behind who he was?

The Orphan Keeper is a moving story about a little boy, lost, who searched and found what he was looking for. Was he better for the trials and losses he experienced? Or were the lost years something that would forever mark him, keeping him from truly ever being part of either world that he knew? This book is based on the true events of Chellamuthu's (Taj's) life. There are definite moments of heartbreak as a family is torn apart, and yet there are moments of triumph, as well, as Chellamuthu becomes Taj and his story comes full circle.

This book is adapted for younger readers and recommended for those 8 years and older. When it is time for book reports that are supposed to be biographies or from another culture, keep this book in mind as it fits both well. This book doesn't come across as dry or boring, in my opinion. It is well written and well-detailed without getting stuck in the detailing. I highly recommend it to readers, whether they be 8 years old or 88 years. 

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion, all thoughts expressed are my own.


About the Book:
Seven-year-old Chellamuthu’s life—and his destiny—is forever changed when he is kidnapped from his village in Southern India and sold to the Lincoln Home for Homeless Children. His family is desperate to find him, and Chellamuthu anxiously tells the Indian orphanage he is not an orphan, that he has a mother who loves him. But he is told not to worry as he will soon be adopted by a loving family in America.

Chellamuthu is suddenly surrounded by a foreign land and a foreign language. He can’t tell people that he already has a family and becomes consumed by a single, impossible question: How do I get home? But after more than a decade, home becomes a much more complicated idea as the Indian boy eventually sheds his past and receives a new name: Taj Khyber Rowland.

It isn’t until Taj meets an Indian family who helps him rediscover his culture and family history that he begins to discover the truth he has all but forgotten. Taj is determined to return to India and begin the quest to find his birth family. But is it too late? Is it possible that his birth mother is still looking for him? And which family does he belong to now?

The Orphan Keeper is a deeply moving and gripping journey about discovering one’s self and the unbreakable family bonds that connect us forever.

4.26.2022

Turn My Mourning Into Dancing ~ Book Spotlight with Excerpt and Giveaway

Turn My Mourning into Dancing JustRead Blog Blitz 

Welcome to the Blog Blitz for 
Turn My Mourning Into Dancing by Henri Nouwen, 

Book Spotlight

Turn My Mourning Into Dancing Title: Turn My Mourning Into Dancing 
Author: Henri Nouwen 
Publisher: Thomas Nelson 
Release Date: March 8, 2022 
Genre: Christian, Spiritual Growth, Grief 

How do you find hope in hard times? Why is it important to have hope during difficult times? Turn My Mourning into Dancing will help you survive the difficult seasons and learn how to live a full life in the midst of them and beyond. With practical advice, Henri Nouwen will gently point you towards a way of life that is grounded in God’s constancy and rooted within eternal hope. 

In this updated edition, Turn My Mourning into Dancing discusses five movements we experience during hard times: 

 • From Our Little Selves to a Larger World 
 • From Holding Tight to Letting Go 
 • From Fatalism to Hope 
 • From Manipulation to Love 
 • From a Fearful Death to a Joyous Life 

Healing begins with taking our pain out of its diabolic isolation and seeing our sufferings in communion with all humanity, and all creation. Nouwen teaches us that our little lives participate in something much larger. Turn My Mourning into Dancing is a must-read for: 

 • men and women looking for growth and insight on life 
 • anyone going through the grief process and searching for real solutions 
 • anyone who has experienced a loss, betrayal, or hard times 

Everyone grieves differently. It is a process, not a science experiment. Mourning shouldn’t last forever. Do you want the kind of life that allows you to dance even in the middle of the darkest night? Get the answers and find hope within your hard times with Nouwen’s works on spiritual growth.

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | IndieBound | Christianbook | BookBub


About the Author

Henri Nouwen 

Henri J. M. Nouwen (1932-1996) was the author of With Open HandsReaching OutThe Wounded HealerMaking All Things New, and many other bestsellers. He was the senior pastor of L’Arche Daybreak in Toronto, Canada, a community where men and women with mental disabilities and their assistants create a home for one another.


Excerpt

From Holding Tight to Letting Go

For years I have loved watching trapeze artists. The love began when my then- eighty-nine-year-old
father came for a visit. Let’s go to the circus, we decided one day. That evening we watched five South
African trapeze artists—three fliers and two catchers. They danced in the air! The fliers soared and all
was dangerous until they found themselves caught by the strong hands of their partners. I told my
father that I had always wanted to fly like that, that perhaps I had missed my calling!

I am constantly moved by the courage of my circus friends. At each performance they trust that their
flight will end with their hands sliding into the secure grip of a partner. They also know that only the
release of the secure bar allows them to move on with arcing grace to the next. Before they can be
caught, they must let go. They must brave the emptiness of space.

Living with this kind of willingness to let go is one of the greatest challenges we face. Whether it
concerns a person, possession, or personal reputation, in so many areas we hold on at all costs. We
become heroic defenders of our dearly gained happiness. We treat our sometimes inevitable losses as
failures in the battle of survival.

The great paradox is that it is in letting go, we receive. We find safety in unexpected places of risk. And
those who try to avoid all risk, those who would try to guarantee that their hearts will not be broken,
end up in a self-created hell. C. S. Lewis wrote in The Four Loves,

To love at all is to be vulnerable…If you want to make sure of keeping [your heart] intact, 
you must give your heart to no one, not even to an animal. Wrap it carefully round with 
hobbies and little luxuries; avoid all entanglements; lock it up safe in the casket of your 
selfishness. But in that casket— safe, dark, motionless, airless— it will change. It will not be 
broken—it will become unbreak-able, impenetrable, irredeemable…The only place 
outside of Heaven where you can be perfectly safe from the danger of love 
is Hell.

In so many ways, the more we insist on control and the more we resist the call to hold our lives lightly,
the more we have to deny the reality of our losses and the more artificial our existence becomes. Our
belief that we should grasp tightly what we need provides one of the great sources of our suffering. But
letting go of possessions and plans and people allows us to enter, for all its risks, a life of new,
unexpected freedom.

How can we live with greater willingness to let go? Another step in turning our mourning into dancing
has to do with not clutching what we have, not trying to reserve a safe place we can rest in, not trying to
choreograph our own or others’ lives, but to surrender to the God whom we love and want to follow.
God invites us to experience our not being in control as an invitation to faith.

Taken from “Turn My Mourning into Dancing: Finding Hope During Hard Times” by Henri Nouwen.
Copyright 2001 Estate of Henri Nouwen. Preface Copyright 2001 Timothy Jones. 
Used with permission from Thomas Nelson Publishing. www.thomasnelson.com

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive two print copies of Turn My Mourning into Dancing (one to keep, one to give!)!

Turn My Mourning into Dancing JustRead Blog Blitz Giveaway 

Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight April 26, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on May 3, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE


Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Publicity Tours 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

3.22.2022

Undistracted ~ Review


Undistracted

By Bob Goff
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (March 1, 2022)
Hardcover: 256 pages
Audiobook: 6 hours and 2 minutes

Undistracted is an interesting book. The author, Bob Goff, who is also the narrator takes the reader on a journey in which distraction sidelines us from what we are meant to do. Disappointment, various choices, and life, in general, can keep us from fulfilling the course our life is on. Distractions slow us down or even take us off course. 

Bob shows us just how easy it is to be distracted by using examples from his own life. Can we stop distractions from shifting our focus? Yes, we can and this book shows us how.  Distractions don't have to derail us and we can even use them to our own advantage. The important thing is being able to tell what is a true distraction and what is a necessary break from the every day that allows us to come back better. 

This is a perfect book to get for the person in your life (or yourself) who is always busy and on the move. We need to be aware that life is a balance and that yes, one's job, is important but not at the expense of family and friends. So determine what is the distraction or distractions of your life and get Undistracted with Bob Goff's help. I will admit for the audiobook I did listen to it at 1.2 times as it was a little slow at 1.0 times, I know details but I like my reading (or narration) a touch faster. But overall this was an interesting and insightful book.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion, all thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:
Through his pithy and inspiring storytelling that has endeared him to millions, New York Times bestselling author Bob Goff reassures readers that they can harness today’s distractions, follow Jesus’ example, and find focus, purpose, and joy.

You probably know what it’s like to be driving down the road when you suddenly feel the vibration and hear the guh-guh-guhguh-guh of the rumble strips–those groves in the pavement–warning you that you’ve drifted out of your lane. You didn’t mean to get distracted. You only took your eyes off the road for a moment, but you drifted off course. And that’s a lot like life, isn’t it?

In Undistracted, Bob Goff lovingly yanks us back in our lane and helps us get back on track so we can live our lives with real purpose and joy. In his trademark storytelling style, Bob helps us
  • learn the destruction of distraction and the benefits of living a life of undistracted love and authentic connection;
  • identify the distractions in our lives and either eliminate them or route around them; and
  • catch a vision of our future, undistracted selves where we can experience true happiness and joy.
Bob’s inspiring and entertaining stories in Undistracted show us what it looks like to live a beautiful and purposeful life rather than drifting aimlessly from one season to the next. He encourages us to fix our eyes on Jesus and harness life’s distractions so we can find joy despite our circumstances.Purchase Links:
Thomas Nelson |Amazon Barnes & Noble
About the Author:
Bob Goff is the author of the New York Times bestselling Love DoesEverybody, Always; and Dream Big as well as the bestselling Love Does for Kids. He’s a lover of balloons, cake pops, and helping people pursue their big dreams. Bob’s greatest ambitions in life are to love others, do stuff, and most importantly, to hold hands with his wife, Sweet Maria, and spend time with their amazing family. For more, check out BobGoff.com and LoveDoes.org.
Instagram features:
Monday, February 28th: @mommaleighellensbooknook
Tuesday, March 1st: @girlsinbooks
Thursday, March 3rd: @nurse_bookie
Friday, March 4th: @itsbibliotherapy
Sunday, March 6th: @thebookend.diner
Sunday, March 6th: @wherethereadergrows
Monday, March 7th: @createexploreread
Monday, March 7th: @readresa
Tuesday, March 8th: @shobizreads
Wednesday, March 9th: @the.caffeinated.reader
Thursday, March 10th: @lovemybooks2020
Reviews:
Monday, March 14th: @travelerswife4life
Tuesday, March 15th: From the TBR Pile – spotlight
Wednesday, March 16th: Tabi Thoughts
Monday, March 21st: @theocbookgirl
Tuesday, March 22nd: Blooming with Books
Wednesday, March 23rd: @bookish801
Friday, March 25th: @everything.is.words
Saturday, March 26th: @kristens.reading.nook
Monday, March 28th: The Calico Books and @thecalicobooks
Tuesday, March 29th: @iowaamberreads
Thursday, March 31st: Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama and @musingsofasassybookishmama
Friday, April 1st: @wellreadtraveler
Monday, April 4th: @booksnbikram
Tuesday, April 5th: What is That Book About – spotlight
Wednesday, April 6th: @parksidereads
Thursday, April 7th: @webreakforbooks
Friday, March 18th: @what.ems.reading

3.10.2022

What Happened at the Cross ~ Spotlight with Excerpt

What Happened at the Cross JustRead Blog Blitz 

Welcome to the Blog Blitz for 
What Happened at the Cross 
by Billy Graham, hosted by 

About the Book

What Happened at the Cross Title: What Happened at the Cross 
Author: Billy Graham 
Publisher: Thomas Nelson 
Release Date: November 23, 2021 
Genre: Christian, Spiritual Growth, Easter 

The cross of Christ towers over 2,000 years of history. What happened on that hill called Calvary? In this compilation of his life's work, Billy Graham explains what Jesus accomplished on the day of his death, the meaning of his sacrifice, where he is now, the price of victory, and how to live with hope. 

It’s almost impossible to find one of Billy Graham’s sermons that didn’t focus on the incredible events that happened over 2,000 years ago on Mount Calvary, and that’s because he centered his life and ministry around its message. In this special collection of the beloved evangelist's inspiring messages on the cross, discover simple yet profound truths that will change your life. 

This one-of-a-kind message includes: 
• An exclusive foreword from Franklin Graham and afterword by Will Graham 
• More than 40 bonus pages of Scripture references pointing readers to what God's Word says about the cross and salvation 
• The Steps of Peace salvation plan from the Billy Graham Evangelical Association 
• Seven chapters of rich content explaining what happened at the cross; the price of victory; the meaning of the cross; the king's eternity, and how to live life with hope 

Perfect for Christians seeking spiritual encouragement and a better understanding of the Gospel's message, What Happened at the Cross will help you better understand the meaning of the cross and equip you to proclaim the gospel in your Church, your community, and beyond.

Purchase Links*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | IndieBound | ChristianBook | BookBub


About the Author

Billy Graham, world-renowned preacher, evangelist, and author, delivered the gospel message to more people face-to-face than anyone in history and ministered on every continent of the world in more than 185 countries. Millions have read his inspirational classics, including Angels, Peace with God, The Holy Spirit, Hope for the Troubled Heart, How to Be Born Again, The JourneyNearing Home, and The Reason for My Hope.

Excerpt

The award-winning coach at the University of Alabama, Paul “Bear” Bryant, once said, “The price of
victory is high but so are the rewards.” Another Paul, the great apostle, declared that he would not
boast in anything except the cross of Jesus and said, “I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward
call of God in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 3:14). Victory is something we all want to experience. In fact, I have
never met anyone who would choose defeat over victory. But through life we all experience both,
whether a competition, or battle between our will and God’s will. What is the greatest and most costly
battle ever to take place? Who was the victor, and what was the reward? The greatest battle ever
fought was between good and evil, and it took place at Golgotha, a rugged hill outside the walled city of
Jerusalem. Jesus Christ was Victory, paying the cost with His blood. The reward was the salvation of
human souls.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a copy of What Happened at the Cross.

What Happened at the Cross JustRead Giveaway

The full tour schedule is linked below. The giveaway began at midnight March 8, 2022, and will last through 11:59 PM EST on March 15, 2022. The winner will be notified within 2 weeks of the close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of the prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE


Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Publicity Tours 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

1.11.2022

Fierce Love ~ Book Spotlight with Giveaway

Fierce Love 

Creating a Love that Lasts–One Conversation at a Time
By Susan Scott


About Fierce Love: Creating a Love that Lasts–One Conversation at a Time

Publisher: Thomas Nelson (January 11, 2022)

Hardcover: 240 pages

New York Times bestselling author Susan Scott guides couples through eight must-have conversations to create a fierce love that stands the test of time and grows stronger over the years.

Often in our romantic relationships, we long for deep connection, but we don’t know how to communicate well and sometimes withhold what we’re really thinking and feeling. This can lead to fighting, resentment, or, worse, complacency–where you are just going through the motions, more like roommates than two people in love. As Susan writes, “It’s as if we’ve pulled off our own wings.” As couples, we don’t stop to think how important our conversations are. And we certainly don’t understand that what we talk about and how we talk about it determine whether our relationships will thrive, flatline, or fail.

In Fierce LoveNew York Times bestselling author Susan Scott guides couples through eight must-have conversations that lead to deep connection and lasting commitment. Through the use of true stories and hands-on exercises, Susan helps us

  • understand that the conversation is the relationship;
  • identify and dispel five relationship myths that mislead and derail us;
  • learn eight conversations that are critical to enriching relationships; and
  • stop fighting or ignoring issues and start connecting in a deep and meaningful way.

After a season where many relationships were tested and tried, where some relationships thrived and others have exposed cracks couples didn’t even realize were there, or realized but didn’t acknowledge, now is the best time to learn to communicate well. By having honest, compelling conversations with our partners, we can foster true connection and a fierce love that will withstand the test of time and grow stronger over the years.

Enter the Giveaway: 

1 winner will receive a copy of Fierce Love by Susan Scott.

Book will be sent by the publisher so the winner's 

US shipping address will be collected and shared accordingly.

Open to US residents 18 years of age or older.

The giveaway goes from January 11, 2022, 12:00 am to

January 17, 2022, 11:59 pm.

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Review tour schedule:

Monday, January 10th: @finding_joyathome

Tuesday, January 11th: Blooming With Books – spotlight

Wednesday, January 12th: @myinfinitetbr

Thursday, January 13th: @what.ems.reading

Thursday, January 13th: Sassy Bookish Mama – spotlight

Friday, January 14th: @books_with_bethany

Monday, January 17th: @bookscoffeephotography

Wednesday, January 19th: @nurse_bookie

Thursday, January 20th: @kristens.reading.nook

Friday, January 21st: What is That Book About – spotlight

Monday, January 24th: @arrow_reads

Wednesday, January 26th: Stranded in Chaos and @sarastrand9438

Thursday, January 27th: @jenniaahava

Friday, January 28th: @parksidereads

Monday, January 31st: @bookish801

Wednesday, February 2nd: Tabi Thoughts

Thursday, February 3rd: @peachy.paperbacks

Friday, February 4th: The Oc Book Girl and @theocbookgirl

Monday, February 7th: @readingthroughnaptime

Wednesday, February 9th: @lovemybooks2020

Friday, February 11th: @msanniecathryn

Sunday, February 13th: @webreakforbooks