Covert Amish Christmas ~ Review

Covert Amish Christmas

By Mary Alford

Victoria Kauffman has spent the last year running for her life. Since her partner and unit were killed on an operation gone horribly wrong she's been trying to stay one step ahead of rogue CIA operatives whom she believes are behind everything. She just needs to find the proof-there is just one problem she has no idea what she is looking for. And worse is the guilt over the life she has led as a CIA agent, the things she has done eat at her, stealing any hope for peace. 

Aaron Shelter has been living with his guilt over his wife's death, no matter what anyone thinks he knows it is his fault she didn't seek the help she needed sooner. When he finds a woman in need of his help he isn't about to repeat the mistakes of the past. But this time offering help could get him and those he loves killed.

As Victoria, Aaron, and his family spend Christmas trying to elude ruthless killers, Victoria's only hope lies with contacting her former commander. But when you are in the heart of Amish country communication is not easily accomplished. 

If you are a fan of Amish suspense that is a clean read you will enjoy this offering from the Love Inspired Suspense brand. At times Victoria and Aaron's dwelling on their guilt can be a little much but overall this was a good read. All the action takes place in approximately a day so there is a lot crammed into this time period but that is to be expected with these books. I will admit I had a few suspicions as to who was the guilty party so don't be surprised if you aren't surprised at the reveal of the mastermind.  

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:

Fleeing to Amish country

might be the only way to survive Christmas…

Hiding in Amish country, former CIA agent Victoria Kauffman’s determined to find evidence to catch the corrupt agents who killed her partner. But when her Christmas refuge is discovered, the sole person she can trust is Amish widower Aaron Shetler. With ruthless—and dangerously powerful—enemies after them, Victoria must use all her training to make sure they live through the holidays.

To Read or Not to Read ~ Review

To Read or Not to Read

A Literary Journal for the Lover's Soul

From Ink & Willow

This is a lovely book that is perfect for keeping track of your reading. You may want more than one if you are a reader who reads a lot during a year. Or if you only want to track those books that you want to reread (or avoid forevermore) this is the way to go. 

To journal your books one is given two pages in which to record all the important information. On the left side, there is a column to record the pub date, your read date, your rating (1-5 books - not stars), the reason you read it (book club, friend suggestion, etc.), what it inspired you to do after reading, and to whom you recommended it. Then you can record the book title, author, genre and subject matter, notes about the book, your review of the book, and your final takeaway. And even better the table of contents allows you to record the book title so you can easily find what you are looking for at a later date.

This book is soft-covered and has a pretty blue cover that is on the green-side of blue (at least to my eyes), the lettering has a gold-hue and would look lovely on any table or shelf (unlike a lined notebook, which I have used in the past to journal my book reading). 

I also think this would be a lovely way to share your favorite books with a loved one or a close friend. Think book exchange kind of like a cookie exchange where you share recipes with friends. Overall I think no matter how you use this book, it would be a perfect gift to share (or to keep). 

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:

To Read or Not to Read...

How is that a question?

Keep track of the books you read, record thoughts on your favorite books, get inspired for your next read, and reflect on your literary spiritual journey with this beautifully designed journal for readers.

The perfect addition to any personal library, To Read or Not to Read encourages readers of all genres to immerse themselves in a classically illustrated reading journal complete with DIY book review pages and inspirational reading lists. To Read or Not to Read allows readers to step into the book critic role and determine which books to recommend, and which ones to skip based on their reflections throughout the journal. It includes a "How Bookish Are You?" quiz and spotlights on authors such as Flannery O'Connor and Frederick Douglass, whose published works have greatly influenced the combined spheres of faith and literature.

With additional fun facts and helpful conversation starters for literary discussions, this journal will become the signature accessory at book clubs, on nightstands, and on every book lover's shelf.

Point of Danger ~ Review

Point of Danger

Triple Threat #1 

By Irene Hannon

Eve Reilly has angered someone to a new extreme - a package at her home that is more than a little suspicious. Even worse it is the first in a string of escalating threats and attacks. Someone wants to silence her forever - it's just a question of who. 

Brent Lange is a new detective with the police department when he catches Eve Reilly's case. But each incident provides more questions than answers. And with each incident, he finds himself more determined to catch her hater before it is too late. 

This is one case that will leave you guessing as to the final outcoming. 

Those familiar with Irene Hannon's previous works of Romantic Suspense won't be surprised that there is a fair bit of romance (all clean) throughout the suspense. But overall it is a fairly good read. When you think you know where the story is going it takes an unexpected turn and you are left wondering just how you got here. This book is the first in a new series - Triple Threat - but it is not a cliffhanger so no need to worry about the story leaving you hanging. The story itself is all wrapped up within the covers of this book. If you are looking for an escape into a world, not your own this could be your means to do so. So find a comfortable corner and grab your favorite cup of tea (or coffee) and a cookie or two and enjoy. 

And there may be a character or two from Irene's previous series - after all, it takes place in St. Louis.

About the Book:

Hate mail was one thing.

This was quite another.

Radio talk show host Eve Reilly is used to backlash from her pot-stirring on-air commentary and interviews, but now it seems a disgruntled listener is resorting to more than angry words to express their displeasure. When a suspicious package arrives on her doorstep, Eve turns to law enforcement for help.

Police detective Brent Lange can't find any evidence to link the string of unsettling incidents that follow, but he's convinced they're connected. As the harassment grows more menacing, it becomes clear someone wants Eve's voice silenced--permanently.

But unless he can track down her foe, fast, the gutsy woman who is willing to take risks for what she believes--and who is swiftly winning his heart--may not survive.

Bestselling author and three-time RITA Award winner Irene Hannon is back with a heart-stopping new series that will have you turning pages well into the night.

Fascinating Bible Studies on Every Parable ~ Review

Fascinating Bible Studies on Every Parable

By Dr. William H. Marty

People like stories and parables are stories. But some stories have a deeper meaning than what one might first think. Even Jesus's own disciples needed help with discovering the deeper meaning behind Jesus's words. Fascinating Bible Studies on Every Parable offers today's reader guidance in understanding the meaning of the parables of the Bible.

What I found interesting is this book doesn't just look at the New Testament parables of Jesus but also two parables from the Old Testament. Parables are and were methods used to teach important truths. But Jesus used His parables to teach about His kingdom - a kingdom that was to come. What Jesus taught was a concept that was unfamiliar to the people of His day and He needed to explain it to them in a way that they could grasp. Even today we need this explanation to help us understand the Kingdom that is to come. 

Fascinating Bible Studies on Every Parable doesn't relay the parable and then state this is what it means. Rather it explains the setting (historically) and summarizes the parable. Then there is a section that helps the reader to reflect on what they just read and come to their own understanding. To truly understand something one needs to work through the information on their own (or in a group) and this book offers the tools to do this. This is an excellent resource for any believer (or seeker) who is reading and studying the Bible.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

A Change of Pace for Your Bible Study

Jesus knew the power of stories to touch people's hearts, so he used parables to teach his followers about the kingdom of God. If you want to know God better, the parables are a great place to start.

This book provides short studies on every parable in the Bible. You'll learn what God wants us to know from the prodigal son, the good Samaritan, the lost sheep, the talents, the sower, and many more.

Each study includes a summary of the parable, the Scripture reference where it can be found, information on the historical and cultural setting, and key points. At the end of each study are questions that open the door to discussion, reflection, or further investigation, and help you get to the heart of the parable.

A wonderful tool for small groups or to add variety to your personal devotions. Let these studies draw you nearer to God as they enhance your understanding of his Word.

Dr. William H. Marty taught at Moody Bible Institute for thirty-seven years. His main emphasis was teaching an Old and New Testament survey to freshmen at the Chicago campus, and the fruit of his focus on teaching the storyline of the Bible was published in The Whole Bible Story. Dr. Marty has also written The World of Jesus and The Jesus Story and coauthored A Quick-Start Guide to the Whole Bible. He lives in Colorado with his wife, Linda, and is an active triathlete.

Why is That in the Bible? ~ Review

Why is That in the Bible?

By Eric J. Bargerhuff

The most perplexing verses and stories--and what they teach us

The Bible often has passages that can leave a reader scratching their head and wondering what it was all about and even at times why it is in the Bible. But sometimes the meaning of the passage is twofold. It has bearing on the participants and the time in which they lived and it has an alluded to future bearing on the world that was and is still come.

This book is in no way an exhaustive overview of what one can find perplexing but rather it deals with some of the more well-known passages of both the Old and New Testaments. For instance, Abraham's sacrifice of Issac, who would willingly take a long-desired child and offer them as a sacrifice. Yet this is what Abraham did and he did it with a belief that he would still have a son afterward. This one of those instances of present and future meaning. And then there is the story of Jesus cursing the non-bearing fig tree. Reading passage one can be confused - why curse a tree that is not bearing fruit? But there is a deeper message that if directed at those who profess belief in Christ and His salvation - words are like the leaves of the fig tree and actions are like the fruit. Without actions behind our words, we are like a fruitless leafed-out tree. 

These various examples take the reader on a journey of discovery, one that can open the eyes, mind, and heart to the greater meaning found within the Bible. One just needs the means to see deeper and this book offers one help in doing so. This book as the author offers in his conclusion is to help combat the biblical illiteracy that is growing and to help "Christians to be known as people of the Book" for without this we will never God as He intended us to. Are you ready to understand God's story more fully?

This book is one that you will want to have on hand for looking back on what you read or even to reread sections when you come across these passages in your daily Bible readings. Would make an excellent gift for those with questions about why something is in the Bible.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

The Bible Passages You've Always Wondered about--Explained

What should we make of the Bible story about a talking donkey? What about the passage in Joshua where the sun and moon stood still? Should biblical practices like women wearing head coverings still be followed today? The Bible serves as the foundation for all of Christian life, crossing time and transcending cultures, yet many passages are perplexing.

Providing fascinating historical and scriptural insights, Eric J. Bargerhuff demystifies forty Bible verses and stories. Ranging from strange accounts, such as bears mauling forty-two boys (2 Kings 2), to hard-to-accept statements, such as Jesus saying we must hate our families in order to be his disciples (Luke 14), you will learn the context of each passage and how it applies to us today. Other fascinating accounts include

· The Finger on the Wall
· "Lead Us Not into Temptation"
· Jeremiah's Linen Underwear
· "No One Knows the Day or the Hour"
· The Battle for Moses' Body
· Death at Communion

In all, this book will help you be more confident about interpreting all of God's Word accurately.

Eric J. Bargerhuff, PhD, is a professor of Bible and theology and the associate dean of academic affairs at Trinity College of Florida. He served in pastoral ministry for more than twenty years in churches in Ohio, Illinois, and Florida. He received his doctorate in biblical and systematic theology from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Eric's passion is to write about the interpretation and application of biblical principles for the purposes of spiritual growth and reform in the church. He and his family live in Trinity, Florida.

Rebel in the Library of Ever

Rebel in the Library of Ever

The Library of Ever #2

By Zeno Alexander

Read by Emily Lawrence

It has been nearly a year, and Lenora is finally back in the Library but nothing is as it was. The Forces of Darkness have taken over and what's worse some of the patrons approve of the changes. Books are no longer on the shelves and the truth is being hidden by the false librarians of darkness. Book of falsehoods and hate have been released to the shelves. Librarians are being fired if they don't comply with this destruction of knowledge. 

The Library's only hope is Lenora and her inner strength. She is on a mission - save the Library, find a young girl (making sure only ever tells her the truth-no matter what), find an ancient librarian named Zenodotus. All while battling the Forces. Oh, and then there is the small matter of finding the largest known number for a young patron. All in a day's work for a librarian.

I listened to this book through the audio edition and Emily Lawrence's narration is fabulous. 

I have to say I'm hoping for a third Library of Ever book, as there are sure to be more adventures and questions in Lenora's future! And be on the lookout for a suspicious Koala. 

Prospector's Run ~ Review and Giveaway

Prospector's Run 

Artifacts #1

By Kevin W. Bates

Holtz Mitsumi had wagered on an incredible find, a find that didn't happen. Worse, it put him in debt with no hopes of ever flying again. But a desperate man in need of a crew may give Holtz what he needs, a chance to once again captain a ship and redeem himself. And provide him with a means of completing a mission of his own. Holtz discovered an alien artifact, an artifact that is seemingly worthless but for compulsion he now feels. A compulsion to return it to its place of origin, wherever that may be.

There is just one little problem - a powerful adversary is determined to stop them and their haphazard crew of misfits. With an old ship and a less than ideal crew, what hope do they have of succeeding, much less surviving their prospector run? They say fortune favors the foolish, but in Holtz's experience, that has never happened for him. But maybe this time will be different or not.

Prospector's Run is an intriguing read, one that takes the reader into a new world - a world in search of the past and all its lost technologies. But finding these lost worlds that were destroyed several millennia ago will take more than luck. It will take a ragtag crew coming together and overcoming the ghosts of their pasts. But secrets are hard to let go of, especially if they make you vulnerable.

If you are looking for a compelling SciFi read this is it. And even better it is the first book in a series, a series which has a most promising beginning. So strap in and get ready to go on the adventure of a lifetime with Captain Holtz Mitsumi and his crew. 

 

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

** Fun fact book 2 Dawn's Reach is already out **

Book Description:

Five thousand years ago in a savage assault, someone tried to annihilate humanity. They almost succeeded. Now, millennia after the First Stellar Civilization’s cataclysmic destruction, humans have clawed their way back from the brink of extinction and returned to the stars. Massive riches in the form of forgotten tech lie hidden in the ruins of the First Civ’s dead, shattered worlds. For a prospector with luck and the right coordinates, they are ripe for the taking. Holtz Mitsumi has neither. Down and out from a failed expedition, Mitsumi allows an enigmatic stranger to talk him into one more prospecting run. After scraping together a crew, Mitsumi embarks with high hopes. But nothing is as it seems and this run may be his last.

Buy the Book:
Amazon
Add to Goodreads

Book Details:

Book Title:  Prospector's Run by Kevin W. Bates

Category:  Adult Fiction (18 yrs +),  277 pages

Genre: Science Fiction

Publisher:  Kevin W. Bates

Release date:   April 2019

Tour dates: Nov 23 to Dec 11, 2020

Content Rating:  PG for mild profanity and some depictions of violence.

Meet the Author:

Kevin W. Bates was born in Berkeley, California, and, with the exception of a couple year stint in Sydney, Australia, and a study abroad program in Japan, was raised there. In his Martin Luther King Jr. High and Berkeley High School years, Kevin developed a life-long fascination with science fiction (and, oddly, nuclear weapons) and a tendency to daydream. He discovered early that among the greatest joys in life is the thrill of losing yourself in a gripping space adventure soaring across the galaxy. Raised on classic science fiction authors such as Isaac Asimov, Arthur C. Clarke, and Ray Bradbury, Kevin took up writing science fiction to provide the same mind-expanding thrills he enjoyed from those authors and more contemporary ones like Alastair Reynolds, Iain M. Banks, David Brin, and Neal Stephenson.

Connect with the author: 

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Instagram ~ Goodreads

Tour Schedule:
Nov 23 – Splashes of Joy – book review/guest post/author interview/giveaway
Nov 24 – Sadie's Spotlight – book spotlight
Nov 25 –Book Corner News and Reviews – book spotlight / guest post/giveaway
Nov 26 –Rockin' Book Reviews – book review/guest post/giveaway
Nov 27 – fundinmental – book spotlight/giveaway
Nov 30 –Jazzy Book Reviews – book spotlight/guest post/giveaway
Dec 1 – Library of Clean Reads - book review/giveaway
Dec 2 –Locks, Hooks and Books – book review/giveaway
Dec 3 – Stephanie Jane – book spotlight/giveaway
Dec 3 -The Review Crew - book review/giveaway
Dec 8 – Literary Flits – book review/giveaway
Dec 8 - My Fictional Oasis - book review/giveaway
Dec 9 – Cheryl's Book Nook – book review/giveaway
Dec 10 – Books and Zebras @jypsylynn – book review/giveaway
Dec 11 - Blooming with Books - book review/giveaway

Enter the Giveaway:

Win 1 of 5 copy of Prospector's Run (print or ebook) 

or

$50 Amazon Gift Card 

(6 winners)

(USA and Canada only)

(ends Dec 18)

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