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Book Review–The Smell of Fall

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I enjoyed reading Mary Hake’s previous books about how a blind girl experienced the seasons of spring and summer, so when she asked for reviewers for The Smell of Fall, I was happy to oblige. I love reading picture books to my little girl, and she is always eager for new ones, so she loves to have me read review books to her. 

Publisher’s description:

How would a blind child experience the world?

Join April as her nose leads her through autumn adventures in nature and at home, at school and on a farm. Children will enjoy the sensory experiences with April and her menagerie of pets. Fall smells may be the best of all!

My thoughts:

Fall is a season that is quite different here where we live than it is in America. We don’t have dry leaves to shuffle through, and Thanksgiving isn’t celebrated here. Since we homeschool, the pages about the smell of a classroom and a football game didn’t make sense to her, either. She could identify with pages about the smell of flowers and fresh-baked bread, though! Of course, since I was reading her a book, she enjoyed it, no matter what. As with the other books in the Smells of the Seasons series, we both enjoyed noticing April’s pets throughout the illustrations. There weren’t as many in The Smell of Fall as in the others, but there were some fun ones to spot, even so. 

This is a delightful book to remind children what it is like to be blind, and to help them become aware of their sense of smell.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author, and these are my honest thoughts about it.

WARNING: No warnings!

Purchase your copy here.

July/August 2024 Photos

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Here are the rest of the pictures I have in my computer from these months. It’s time to sort through everyone’s photos again!

This picture should have gone with the post about building the new library shelves. A few days before Elijah built them, the younger boys and I painted them. It was the middle of winter and very cold, so paint dried very slowly–unless it was in the sun. So, we set the boards in the sun at the end of our driveway and got started as soon as it was almost warm enough. That was about 11:00, and there was still frost in the shade. The paint dried fast enough in the sun that we were able to do another coat every hour, until about 3:00 when we lost the sun. At that point, we moved them into the garage and did the last coat in there, then locked the cats out for the night and left the boards to dry overnight. It worked!

Because both Esther and Simon had birthdays while Esther, James and Mr. Sweetie were in America, we celebrated them early on an evening when Simon was here. Esther made him a trifle, and I surprised her with meringues that I made while she was away the morning before. We rarely have dessert, so having two desserts was fun!

Little girls + flowers = beauty!

James has been working on his sleepout when he gets the chance.

Mr. Imagination has been helping me with the incubator this winter. Here are a couple of pictures he took when we candled the eggs for the first batch. The first is an egg that hasn’t started to develop yet; we candle them before they go into the incubator, to check for cracks in the shell. The second is an egg we took out halfway through incubation. It has a blood line across the middle, indicating that the chick started to develop, and then died. He tried to get a picture of a viable embryo, but it came out so dark I couldn’t see anything.

I found this picture when I sorted them–someone was playing!

Esther bought a game to take with her and play en route to America. Her little sisters love to make patterns with the blocks.

The first hatch was very successful–80% of the eggs produced live chicks!

Book Review–What’s the Story, Morning Glory?

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Welcome to the Blog Tour for What’s the Story, Morning Glory? by Julie Lessman, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: What’s the Story, Morning Glory?
Author: Julie Lessman
Publisher: Julie Lessman LLC
Release Date: October 1, 2024
Genre: Memoir Devotional (half fiction/half nonfiction)

“DEAR LORD, JULIE … OUR WHOLE LIFE IS IN THIS BOOK!”

My heart went out to my sweet husband as he walked into our kitchen one day with a noticeable gulp, ashen-faced after reading my latest novel.“Yes, I know, babe,” I said with a repentant smile and a conciliatory hug, “but nobody really knows that.”
Ahem. Until now …

Trust me, “What’s the Story, Morning Glory? A Memoir Devotional with a ‘Novel’ Approach to Practical Christianity ” is not a book I wanted to write. As a novelist, I have never been partial to nonfiction, either reading it or writing it, but I had little choice when God convinced me otherwise through a number of point-blank arm-twistings I couldn’t deny and not-so-gentle proddings from family and friends.

Despite all the encouragement, I wasn’t really sure where to begin. “It will be fiction and nonfiction combined,” the Holy Spirit whispered within, and just like that, the idea for this book took flight. First, I would tell my “real” and very personal story behind the life-lesson stories in my novels, then I would follow it up with the excerpt from my books where I teach that same life lesson to my characters, finally culminating in corresponding Scriptures, a bulleted “Takeaway” list, and a related prayer.

Thus, What’s the Story, Morning Glory: A Memoir Devotional with a “Novel” Approach to Practical Christianity was born. A memoir devotional that when combined with scenes from my novels, becomes a “novotional” where I relate the life lessons God personally taught me through His Word. I am simply a child of God who applied these lessons and Biblical precepts to every situation in my life and consequently, saw nonstop answers to prayer and blessings galore. It is my profound hope and prayer that through my own very simple and personal stories and examples, I can do the same for others. Therefore, the format for each chapter of this book will be as

1. The Real Story (How I learned and applied the spiritual lesson in my own life)
2. The Novel Story (The scene where I teach the spiritual lesson to my characters)
3. The Scripture Story (Scriptures applicable to the spiritual lesson)
4. The Takeaway Story (Bulletized points for spiritual lesson in easy-to-read/apply format)
5. The Prayer Story (Specific prayer related to the spiritual lesson)

I pray this bottom-line, albeit somewhat quirky, 1-2-3 devotional blesses you as much as God’s spiritual life lessons have blessed me!

Hugs,
Julie Lessman

MY THOUGHTS

What a novel idea—a devotional that combines real life stories, scenes from novels, and Scripture. I was immediately intrigued. On the other hand, devotionals can be difficult to read in time for a review. I decided to give What’s the Story, Morning Glory? a try anyway. 

I really appreciated Julie Lessman’s honesty as she shared real stories from her life. She shares not only victories but also mistakes she has made, and how God taught her about Himself and what He wants to do in everyone. The novel story section of each topic proved to be helpful, too, in seeing another perspective of these lessons lived out. One problem I ran into with the novel story sections, though, is that now I want to read Julie’s books! I had never even heard of her before signing up for What’s the Story, Morning Glory?, but now I’m interested in finding and reading them. 

A lot of things really stood out to me as I read this book. One of the first things that stood out was the prayer Julie prayed to become saved. It was not the normal type of prayer—but it reminded me of my mother’s salvation testimony! I also very much appreciated her straightforwardness about sexual purity. In one chapter, she mentioned her son telling someone he didn’t really love his girlfriend and that was why he slept with her. This type of scene is repeated a number of times—a message that really needs to be talked about in today’s culture. 

Another rather unpopular topic that is discussed is child training. I was thankful to come across an author that actually believes what the Bible has to say about it, and that spanking, if done properly, is right and good for the child. The chapter about training children and disciplining them seemed very balanced to me. 

The chapter that spoke to me the most was the one about marriage. This was the longest chapter in the book, with ten different Real Stories and Novel Stories, on various aspects of marriage. A couple of them were rather convicting to me, and I hope I remember what I learned here. Also, all through this book, Julie Lessman has given encouragement to pray—but the warning is repeatedly given that “If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me.” I greatly appreciated this encouragement and warning.

If you are looking for a unique devotional in which real life lessons are shared, you might enjoy What’s the Story, Morning Glory? Nearly every aspect of the Christian life is touched on in some way here. I’ve never read a book like this before, but I enjoyed the opportunity to check it out.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author, and these are my honest thoughts about it.

WARNING: Chapter 2: What the heck. Chapter 3: So darn long. Chapter 8: Sure in the heck. Chapter 9: Oh. My. Gosh, pretty darn close. Chapter 11: That’s darn sure. Chapter 16: Heck. Chapter 17: Dang, you’re ugly. Chapter 18: Gee, thanks. Throughout: occasional references to marital intimacy or extra-marital promiscuity, though not graphic.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon

About the Author

Julie Lessman is an award-winning author whose tagline of “Passion With a Purpose” underscores her intense passion for both God and romance. A lover of all things Irish, she enjoys writing close-knit Irish family sagas that evolve into 3-D love stories: the hero, the heroine, and the God that brings them together.

Author of The Daughters of Boston, Winds of Change, Heart of San Francisco, Isle of Hope, Silver Lining Ranch, and The Cousins O’Connor series, Julie was American Christian Fiction Writers 2009 Debut Author of the Year and has garnered over 21 Romance Writers of America and other awards. Voted #1 Romance Author in Family Fiction magazine’s 2012 and 2011 Readers Choice Awards, Julie’s novels also made Family Fiction magazine’s Best of 2014, Best of 2015, and “Essential Christian Romance Authors” 2017-20, as well as Booklist’s 2010 Top 10 Inspirational Fiction and Borders Best Fiction. Her independent novel A Light in the Window was an International Digital Awards winner, a 2013 Readers’ Crown Award winner, and a 2013 Book Buyers Best Award winner.

Julie has also written a self-help workbook for writers entitled Romance-ology 101: Writing Romantic Tension for the Sweet and Inspirational Markets.

Connect with Julie by visiting julielessman.com to follow her on social media, read both romantic and spiritual excerpts from her books, or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card, a character named after you in Julie’s next book & a signed paperback copy of that book, plus a signed paperback copy of What’s the Story, Morning Glory!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 24, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 1, 2024. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only for print copies. Gift card open to all locales. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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

JustRead Publicity Tours

Book Review–Collision Course

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About the Book:

Book: Collision Course

Author: Millie Norwich Inman

Genre: Historical Fiction

Release date: January 17, 2024

The shocking death of the popular Prince of Wales launches his young heir from innocent childhood into a roiling caldron of jealousy and intrigue. Set in all the glory of eighteenth century England, the young crown prince is urgently prepared for his aged grandfather’s throne.  Under the wing of his godly mentor, the prince staggers through a minefield of hazards.

Parallel to the prince’s journey, is the story of a down-and-out firebrand statesman, considering retirement from the House of Commons because he’s under the king’s extreme disfavor. An alliance between the two ensures the prince’s safe ascension. It also renders his godly mentor and the statesman, the two most powerful men in Great Britain. Then, in the face of escalating war, a shocking twist changes everything.

Collision Course is a slice of real history with real people fleshed out and facing the real challenges of living in a fallen world.  It shatters stereotypes as it treks through England’s finest gardens and dines with kings and statesmen all the while peering into the universal nature of the human soul and the heartbeat of corrupted constitutional government. This is the true, untold story of alliance, ambition, betrayal, war, loss, and recovery that set the world stage for the American Revolution.

My Thoughts:

Guest review from my mom:

My first impression of Collision Course was that it looked like a textbook. However, the introduction didn’t read like one, and when I began reading I found myself enjoying it, even though I had to spend some time at the library trying to find out who was who! I really enjoyed all the history included in this book, which made history very readable. I now know a lot more about George III, George II, and many other historical figures than I did before. At the same time, I was really annoyed by some of the mechanics. Quite often, missing or misplaced quotation marks or other punctuation marks made the meaning murky or the wording was convoluted, which indicates to me that the copy editing could have been better. Also, some of the language used was jarring in a book set in the 18th century, such as “gifted” or “intel.” Probably my biggest gripe, however, was the lack of a bibliography, even when it appears quite likely that the author is quoting from original sources. At the same time, it is obvious that this author put a lot of effort into research and into finding ways, especially through conversations, to present the information in a very interesting way. She sure gives insights into a lot of different personalities, and into the political situation in 18th century England. 

I decided that Lord Bute sounds like a very interesting person. I assume that the garden he started is now the famous Kew Gardens. I love his emphasis on godliness, and this is sure a different picture of King George III than I have ever heard. Overall, while this is not a quick read, it is gripping. 

I received a review copy of this book from the author, and these are my honest thoughts about it. Links may be affiliate links, which will benefit Esther’s website if purchases are made through them.

About the Author:

Millie Norwich Inman holds a Bachelor of Arts cum laude from Washington University in St. Louis. She taught school and raised a family before dabbling in freelance for periodicals.  A fair measure of success added to profound sorrow over the loss of Western Civilization culture and history, launched her into extensive research for this engaging slice of pre-American Revolution history. On two trips to England she read at the British Library and Richmond Records Office, and traipsed through fabulous architecture and scrumptious gardens. At home in Texas, she took advantage of the Trinity University, Rice University, and University of Texas San Antonio Libraries, as well as the amazing Inter-Library Loan System from her hometown Boerne Library. Similar to the research style of NYT bestseller, America’s First Daughter, some of the wittiest dialogue in Collision Course has been lifted and adapted from original letters.

More from Millie:

Collision Course is a walk in the park to smell the roses compared to an all-nighter-adrenalin-rush. And the third Earl of Bute is a reluctant hero-protagonist. He’s far more interested in creating calming garden vistas than in jumping into the heart of a rough-housing political fray.

Lord Bute is John Stuart (b. 1713), a descendant of the Stuart kings of Scotland on his father’s side and the powerful Campbell Clan on his mother’s. Branches of the Campbell Clan were still known as the fiercest of highland fighters when Bute was in his twenties. The Highlanders identified as Catholics but knew little of Jesus, and I dare say, never seemed to have heard of the Bible. So, their war-like tendencies really went berserk, after the Bloodless Revolution of 1688. Whenever the banished Catholic heir, the debauched “Bonnie Prince Charlie,” felt sufficiently resentful to sail back from France and contend for the crown, he’d swing by Scotland and enlist belligerent Highlanders. On these occasions, the Campbells would take a respite from murdering the MacDonalds and bludgeoning Lowlander Presbyterians, to gleefully enlist for a bloody tromp into England.

However, by the third “Bonnie Prince” invasion in 1745, Lord Bute’s branch of the Campbell Clan had experienced a come to Jesus. Godly education had become a family priority. Since Lord Bute’s godly father had died when he was nine, his godly mother had tucked him under the wings of her two godly Campbell brothers. Bute’s Campbell uncles were entrenched in the Edinburg intelligentsia. Intellectuals were Christians. Enlightenment academics followed Christians. Bute’s Campbell family branch were Scotland’s civic leaders, innovators in banking, business, jurisprudence, and republican statesmanship in addition to their stellar reputations in science, theology, medicine, and literature.

Lord Bute’s Campbell uncles, along with his Stuart father, were instrumental in the forming the United Kingdom and in installing Protestant royalty, to act in the interest of all their subjects, on the throne of England. The value of the common man was a novel idea. Bute’s uncles ran the elections for nineteen Scottish representatives to Parliament in Westminster. So, it’s really no wonder, that in the third invasion of Prince Charlie tyrants, three contingents of militia from the Campbell Clan fought for British liberty under George II’s favorite son, the Duke of Cumberland. Campbells fought Campbells.

It was in this third invasion that the young protagonist prince’s uncle, the Duke of Cumberland, became feared as “The Butcher.” After Cumberland led the government’s final victory, and as the “Bonnie Prince” slipped away on his ship back to France, the Duke of Cumberland ran a genocide campaign of the most war-like Highlanders (30 something Campbells). That ended the north Britain invasions and turned thoughts to a walk in the park-like gardens. Let Collision Course begin.

To purchase your copy, click here.

To visit more of the blog stops on this tour, click here.

To enter a fun giveaway, click here.

Goofiness in July

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I didn’t realize how far behind I am at posting pictures of our life! This was the third weekend in a row that I have been away from home. Two weeks ago, I went to a homeschool mom’s retreat near Christchurch, and had a migraine virtually the whole time, so by the time I got home late Sunday evening I was exhausted. Last weekend our whole family went to some meetings at a church in North Canterbury…and got home just in time to make dinner. Yesterday, Gayle had a medical appointment in Christchurch, so he and I went over for that, leaving all our children here at home. We stayed at a friend’s house overnight because due to the nature of his appointment the doctor wanted him to stay reasonably close to the hospital for 24 hours. We went to church over there and then came home, beating our children home! They had taken advantage of us being away to go out to eat together, and one of the older ones treated them all to a visit to a fun aquarium. So, here I am with enough time, finally, to do some blogging about our life!

Near the end of July, Esther, James and Mr. Sweetie went to America for a month to visit family. Somehow, I ended up with silly pictures of the boys just before they went. Here is James with his favorite cat.

I’m not sure what the point was supposed to be, but he put the stool over himself!

Meanwhile, Mr. Sweetie was doing this!

Mr. Sweetie and Mr. Imagination spent several days trying to build a motorbike, with a weed whacker motor and a pushbike. It worked for a few seconds.

The girls spent a few days playing on top of this cage in the orchard at the edge of the garden.

The children found a pair of glasses at the dump, and Little Miss enjoyed playing with them.

And this is Goofball, the gentlest cat we have, and the best hunter of the three.

Book Review–Once Upon a Courtship

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About the Book:

Book: Once upon a Courtship

Authors: Kit Morgan, Chautona Havig, Tricia Goyer, Marylu Tyndall, Regina Scott, Marlene Bierworth, Linore Rose Burkard, Camille Elliot, Louise M. Goudge, Lisa M. Prysock, Teresa Slack, Marilyn Turk

Genre: Historical Christian Fiction

Release date: October 22, 2024

Once Upon a Courtship: A Sweet Historical Romance Collection
A Limited-Time Collection of 12 books from 12 beloved Christian authors spanning rustic landscapes, elegant ballrooms, rugged cowboys, enigmatic spies, and daring pirates! Delight your romantic heart with Colonial, Regency, Victorian, Western, and Gilded Age Romance and preorder your copy today!

Mail-Order Millie by USA Today Bestselling Author Kit Morgan
Imagine mail-order bride Millie’s surprise when she finds out her so-called husband is really a spy working for the president.

Courting Miss Darling by USA Today Bestselling Author Chautona Havig
Muriel Darling thought her heart rode off with a cowboy, but when his boss writes letters, maybe romance is in Miss Darling’s future after all.

The Privateer’s Prize by Christy Award Finalist Author MaryLu Tyndall
Left at the altar, a woman must rely on the man who broke her heart to deliver a message to change the course of the Revolutionary War.

Grace in the Storm by USA Today Bestselling Author Tricia Goyer
As hurricane winds howl, a feisty pirate and a captivating tavern owner find their destinies changed by the storm’s fury.

Leftover Mail-Order Bride by Publisher’s Weekly Bestselling Author Regina Scott
When mail-order bride Victoria’s groom left her at the altar, she vows to find love, but meets Jack, seeking help on the ranch, love optional.

Clara’s Compassion by Critically Acclaimed Author Marlene Bierworth
Clara’s compassion for workers on the frontier of the Canadian Rockies proves conflicting for railroad boss, Graham, in matters of the heart.

Miss Spencer Meets Her Match by Multi-Award-winning Author Linore Rose Burkard
Miss Spencer attends a Cinderella Ball unwillingly, not knowing the “prince” is in disguise.

Lissa and the Spy by USA Today Bestselling Author Camille Elliot
Seeking a marriage of convenience, plain Lissa becomes entangled with enigmatic Lord Stoude and a secret mission for the Crown.

Abiding Faith, Freedom’s Call by Multi-Award-Winning Author Louise M. Gouge
A pacifist Quaker widow and a prisoner of war officer risk their lives. Will the gap between peace and the American Revolution be a chasm too wide?

Jory’s Story by USA Today Bestselling Author Lisa M. Prysock
When a spy and local adversaries descend, can a governess protect the duke’s children and her heart?

Priscilla’s Promise by Award-Winning Author Teresa Slack
Priscilla Channing wants to honor her father by marrying the man he chose. But he’s not the same man, nor she, the same woman.

The Gilding of Minnie Tucker by Multi-Award-Winning Author Marilyn Turk
A Biltmore maid opens the wrong door and stumbles into a guest whose mutual attraction could be their doom.

My Thoughts:

I’ll have to admit it: I only wanted to read this collection because there was a book in it by Chautona Havig and I didn’t want to miss out! Courting Miss Darling is hands-down my favorite book in the collection. I loved the way the story was told, with frequent letters from either Miss Darling or the man who was courting her. And then the scene near the end of the book, involving a bedroom door—that was my favorite part of the book!

I don’t have the entire collection yet, but have read the four books that I was sent. I enjoyed Leftover Mail-Order Bride, too, although it was totally predictable. Jack’s family is delightful. Clara’s Compassion is a sweet book, but it didn’t feel realistic for the period. And, The Privateer’s Prize is a sweet story–but I have never found myself very interested in pirate stories. So, most of this collection doesn’t seem to be my cup of tea, but if you enjoy sweet historical romance, don’t miss it! This is a lot of reading for the price, and a great way to sample new-to-you-author’s writing.

I received a review copy of this book from the author, and these are my honest thoughts about it. Links may be affiliate links, which will benefit Esther’s website if purchases are made through them.

About the Author:

Twelve authors bring you stories that span from the Colonial era, through Regency, Victorian, Western, and into Edwardian and the Gilded Age.

More from Chautona:

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to write historical fiction?  Here’s a “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie” version that sorta shows how it can go.

If you give an author a historical assignment, she’ll want to choose an era for it. If she chooses Colonial, she’ll need to research what that period included.

She’ll research it and discover that there were lots of places colonized by lots of countries.

She’ll pick one. If she picks American, she may discover how big of a role ships played in that period. A pirate might appear.

If a pirate appears, she’ll jump the Colonial ship for a swashbuckling one and buy an eyepatch—just to get into character.

While learning of how lawless the open sea could be, pictures of a lawless Old West with cowboys and sheriffs might tempt her to leave rolling sea waves for waving prairie seas.

She’ll buy a covered wagon. If she buys that wagon, her HOA will demand she get it out of her front yard. She’ll settle for spurs. The cat will not be amused.

If her cat protests too much, she’ll decide to get him a girlfriend. She’ll go online and order one. That will remind her of mail-order brides.  She’ll begin researching. The idea of dip pens and beautiful paper and wax seals will make a serious hit to her budget. She’ll justify it as “research.”  If she goes overboard, she might start a story-by-mail service with a new letter sent each week. Reams of paper fill her front yard.  The HOA will send a sternly-written letter.

But the deadlines loom on the horizon. She’ll pray for help.  Thinking about prayer will remind her that her (not-as-yet-to-be-put-on-paper) fictional town needs a church.  And some civilizing.  If she prays and all that happens… she’ll research more.

While researching, she’ll remember she meant to do a story from earlier in the century. She’ll buy a ball gown—Regency style. What’s a ball gown with nowhere to wear it?  She needs a ball!

If she wants to go to a ball, she’ll need to know how to dance. She’ll sign up for English country dance lessons and learn that the waltz of that time is very different from ours.

She’ll research how it evolved. If she studies well, she’ll learn how scandalized folks were and decides to move her story forward. She likes the waltz.  To prove it, she’ll buy vinyl albums of Strauss’ waltzes and play them nonstop.

If she plays the music too late, her neighbors will call in a noise complaint.  The HOA will call an emergency meeting. She’ll miss it. She’s too busy deciding between that mail-order bride and an antebellum miss (and stuffing a thousand envelopes to mail tomorrow).

Pictures of waltzes at balls with hoopskirts and satin prompts her to order her own.  If she puts it on, it threatens to get stuck when she tries to walk out the front door.

If she gets stuck, she’ll shimmy out of the dress (good thing it was a little big) and lets it sit there as décor.

The HOA comes armed with pitchforks and scissors. Fascinated, she wonders where they got the pitchforks. The gown does not survive.

Her indignation prompts her to reconsider and write something more Gilded Age—the long, close-fitting gowns (except for bustles as big as those hoopskirts!).  If she puts one of those on and walks out the front door, she’ll find a man there. Gaping. She may think she looks stunning. If she thinks that, he might pull out a stungun—along with a court order to appear and pay a fine.

When she sees that fine, she may swoon (or it could be she didn’t know how to lace the corset correctly).  He’ll catch her and help her to her couch (it’s not a fainting couch).

When he brings her a drink, she may tell him the whole story.

And if she tells him the whole story, he might suggest writing Sci-Fi would be safer.

After a long nap and a weird dream, she decides he’s right. She’ll write about people in space.  And chances are, if she researches writing about people in space, she’ll discover that it’s just another Colonial story.

(Oh, and she’ll need a new home. She had to sell hers to pay the HOA fines. Anyone want to subscribe to her story letters?)

To purchase your copy, click here.

To visit more of the blog stops on this tour, click here.

To enter a fun giveaway, click here.

Book Review–Tales From the Matthewsburg Manse

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Welcome to the Blog Tour for Tales from the Matthewsburg Manse by Kate Tompkins, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Tales from the Matthewsburg Manse
Author: Kate Tompkins
Publisher:‎ The Matthewsburg Manse
Release Date: October 26, 2023
Genre: Short stories/Poetry, Christian fiction, general fiction, rural fiction, wholesome fiction

When city girl Viv’s husband Mark accepts his first pastoral charge in rural Matthewsburg, she wonders what to expect, and what will be expected of her. This collection of connected fiction stories, some humorous, some suspenseful, some even romantic, explores Viv’s new life as she tries to find her place in the community while dealing with local gossip, old rivalries, suspected murder, sabotaged car shows, and more. Who says life in a small town is boring?

“This book entertains us with our own humanity, we laugh at human foibles, nod our heads in the mutual pains of life’s adventures. Interspersed are poems expressing poignant moments. These provide a place to rest, ponder and even smile before we are once again taken on the life journey of being a spouse in a small town parish. I found myself laughing out loud on occasion. This book is a wonderful read and leaves us with the feeling that life is good.” – Nita Kotiuga, retired pastor, Director of Spiritual Formation at Bakke Graduate University.

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

MY THOUGHTS:

These stories are fun! Most of them are told from Viv’s point of view, but a few are from other people’s perspectives. I found that switch slightly confusing at times, but soon figured it out each time. Most stories were totally believable; one fun chapter, though, had to do with a ghost and a time-traveling cat (although, “cats sleep 15 hours a day, when would they have time to develop the technology?”). I did notice a bit of language; “hell” was used a couple of times and “bloody” once. Other than that, the book is very clean, and like I said, fun, especially the stories about the cruise nights, and the trip to a music camp by two amateur musicians. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author, and these are my honest thoughts about it.

About the Author

Kate Tompkins lives in Montreal’s West Island, where she shares a small house and a big backyard with her husband and the latest in a series of very spoiled cats. She writes short stories, poetry (yes, the non-literary, rhyming kind), and the occasional essay. When not hanging out with her church’s writing group or getting lost down an internet rabbit hole, she can be found trying out recipes from old cookbooks for her cooking blog, Kate’s Virtual Kitchen, or outside keeping the flowerbeds in order.

Connect with Kate by visiting katetompkinsbooks.ca to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $20 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 11, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 18, 2024. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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

JustRead Publicity Tours

Book Review–Astounding Truths of the Bible

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About the Book:

Book: Astounding Truths of the Bible

Author: Annie Weber

Genre: Christian Non-Fiction

Release date: November 6, 2023

Discover a transformative journey through the scriptures with Annie Weber’s captivating book, “Astounding Truths of the Bible.” Whether you’re a newcomer to the pages of the Bible or have grown up immersed in its teachings, Annie Weber’s insightful exploration will inspire your quest to unravel the profound truths that lie within.

Annie’s refreshing approach combines a love for wordplay, nods to pop culture, humor, and personal anecdotes to illuminate the teachings of Jesus and His character. These devotions, brimming with wit and authenticity, offer a unique lens through which to understand the heart of God’s message.

For those who find the Bible’s depth intimidating, this book provides a firm foundation for your journey toward understanding God’s love and His purpose for His people. Annie’s down-to-earth style serves as a bridge, connecting you to the richness of scripture. Through her words, she presents 100 Astounding Truths that seamlessly blend timeless wisdom with a modern outlook, helping you grasp the enduring relevance of God’s Word.

Prepare to be uplifted, enlightened, and empowered in your faith. “Astounding Truths of the Bible” not only demystifies scripture but also kindles a passion for exploring its depths, reinforcing your belief in the life-changing power of the Gospel.

My Thoughts:

I have not quite finished reading this book, but I will say I am really enjoying it. I struggle to enjoy reading, and to understand, deep theological works. Astounding Truths From the Bible does not fall into that category; it is full of short, simple thoughts about God, His character, His desire for His people, and how He equips His people, along with a section of things that are “curious” in the Bible. That includes things like learning from a sandwich, a birth announcement that changed the world, and death by big hair. I am using this book as my morning daily devotional, and enjoying the humorous, fresh perspective this author brings to stories I have known all my life.

I received a review copy of this book from the author, and these are my honest thoughts about it. Links may be affiliate links, which will benefit Esther’s website if purchases are made through them.

About the Author:

Author Annie Weber is known for her bold and uncompromising approach to sharing God’s Word. She lives with a keen awareness of how the Truth of Scripture has led her to put her faith in Christ. Annie is a wellness enthusiast, adventure seeker, wife to Bryan, and mom to Lucy, Luke, Lily, & Levi. She enjoys beach time, fitness, photography, snorkeling, hosting parties, making people laugh, and exercising her social skills.

More from Annie:

My passion and joy are found in helping people better understand the Bible, in bite-sized Truths. It was a clear calling from the Lord to write Astounding Truths of the Bible because I am well acquainted with my reader. I wrote to the gal who is not familiar with the Bible, but has a desire to understand God and His plan for His people.

At 28 years old, God redirected my path in a beautiful way. I was a new mom, home with a baby and found myself with some extra time on my hands due to the fact that I had a disciplined little girl who decided on a regular nap schedule. While little Lucy slept, I began devouring the Bible. I was so impressed that one book could include such amazing wisdom for life. I had never read the Bible before that time. That was 16 years ago, and since then the Lord has allowed me to use my gifting and talents to help explain the Bible using humor, quirky personal anecdotes, and my love of wordplay to help illustrate the teachings of God and His character.

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Book Review–Muldoon’s Misfortunes

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About the Book:

Book: Muldoon’s Misfortunes

Author: EV Sparrow

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Release date: July 16, 2024

A cursed widower forsakes his faith to ensure his hope.

On a verdant island beset by poverty and death, Mick Muldoon dares to escape his misfortunes. Is working a farm and raising a family such an impossible thing to ask? Wasn’t God supposed to answer prayers—not turn a deaf ear?

After surviving the treacherous voyage to America, Mick discovers the rumors of ample opportunity aren’t exactly true. His defective body hampers employment and keeps him dependent upon his peculiar sister. However, an unexpected invitation to move to the heartland guarantees his dreams.

Mick’s own dreadful choices hamper his hopes when he accepts work as a widow’s farmhand. Unbeknownst to him, there’s deception afoot. Mick’s inattention to love causes catastrophe as single fatherhood cruelly shatters his family. Will God miraculously hear his prayers this time?

In Book 1 of Those Resilient Muldoons series, this misguided, wayward widower encounters God’s unexpected presence.

My Thoughts:

Unfortunately, I realized soon after starting to read this book that it was not my style. I appreciate that the story is based on fact, on someone in the author’s life, in fact. I also appreciate that Mick Muldoon eventually recognized the part he played in the tragedy of his life and turned to God. On the other hand, I don’t particularly enjoy reading such a long story about sin and tragedy and the consequences of it. I was happy with the author’s discretion; she mentions a couple of times that a woman moved into a man’s bed or that a man visited a “woman of the evening,” but no more details than that. However, this is not a book I’ll be keeping. I simply didn’t enjoy it enough for that.

I received a review copy of this book from the author, and these are my honest thoughts about it. Links may be affiliate links, which will benefit Esther’s website if purchases are made through them.

About the Author:

Sparrow has served on missions, worship, and prayer teams and in Divorce Care and Single’s Ministry. She’s now a published short story writer turned novelist. Sparrow offers readers encounters with God’s unexpected presence through her character’s adventures. She once bought a one-way ticket to Israel to work on a kibbutz and spent a weekend hopping a freight train. As Grammy to seven grandchildren, they ask why she always buys them books.

More from EV:

Muldoon’s Misfortunes is Book 1 in Those Resilient Muldoons historical fiction series.

In Ireland’s history, there was a time when it was wild, fraught with peril, and without knowledge of God Almighty. Then came St. Patrick, a real man, determined to bring the Gospel of Jesus Christ to that pagan island. The transformation of that country from the spiritual darkness it worshiped was phenomenal. Yet ancient superstitions remain.

Certain aspects of my great-grandfather’s life in the 1800s inspired my Irish main character, Mick Muldoon. Mick’s faith is a traditional type and a profound piece that holds together Irish communities. He often secretly doubts God cares anything about him. He could be invisible for all the attention He pays to Mick’s prayers. But God, being who He is, won’t allow that misconception forever. Mick encounters God’s unexpected presence several times without recognizing it. God persists in pursuing him.

When we’re brokenhearted, we can easily miss the signs of His presence. We may grapple with our beliefs or more intimacy with God in the modern world as well. Do we believe our God can’t see us, or hear our prayers, or that He struggles with drawing close to us because we’re unworthy and He is holy? Do we make choices because of our misbeliefs that can unbalance the God ordained, spiritual strength triangle of faith, hope and love?

Mick’s faith weakens further with his disappointments and influences of the wild and lawless lands during the Gilded Age. He sets damaging things into motion that he could’ve avoided. He’s glad to be finally free of the religious culture of Ireland and living like his chums, and what’s wrong with that?

Because he believes God didn’t pay any attention to him, he doesn’t expect any consequences. He’s in control of his own life now. The results of his choices bring him face to face with his choices, and a holy God He thought ignored him, and the blessings He bestows despite Mick’s misbeliefs.

I hope readers will find more faith in a loving God from Mick’s story as well.

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Book Review–Heavenly Rescues & Answered Prayers

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About the Book:

Book: Heavenly Rescues and Answered Prayers: True Stories of Faith and Miracles from a First Responder

Author: Andrea Jo Rodgers

Genre: Christian Inspirational

Release date: June 4, 2024

Powerful Stories of Life’s Emergencies

For more than 35 years, veteran EMT Andrea Jo Rodgers has been helping people in their most terrifying and vulnerable moments—and bearing witness to the miraculous power and handiwork of God.

In this new collection of unforgettable stories, Andrea shares more heart-pounding accounts of rescues and interventions from her vast experience as a first responder. Whether it’s a boy fallen through thin ice into freezing water, an old woman and her walker stuck at a railroad crossing, or a loyal dog playing guardian angel for his incapacitated owner, join Andrea as she responds to incredible scenarios that testify to God’s power and love.

Not only will you be astounded by the courage exemplified by Andrea and other first responders, but you will also be inspired by her faith, empathy, and hope—even amid the most daunting circumstances. These powerful stories will encourage you and deepen your awe for God’s amazing mercy and grace.

My Thoughts:

I have always enjoyed reading books about people who work in the medical field. Some of the stories they have to tell are amazing. I have seen Andrea Jo Rodgers’ books mentioned a number of times, but never took the opportunity to read any of them. Now, after reading Heavenly Rescues & Answered Prayers, I wish I had!

Heavenly Rescues & Answered Prayers is written in a very readable, interesting way. Each of the 21 chapters in this book tells a stand-alone story, but taken all together, they tell one coherent story of how God cares for people. Of course, we know that many situations that first responders find themselves in don’t end happily, but in the cases described in this book, there were miraculous survivals and recoveries that are encouraging to read about.

If you enjoy stories with a medical theme, you will want to read Heavenly Rescues—and I’m guessing this author’s other books are just as good. Because each chapter can stand alone, it is easy to put down after just one, making this a good choice when there isn’t much time to read. I liked the verses that were printed at the beginning of each chapter; this helped keep the focus on God and His care.

WARNING: Drug use and drunkenness are mentioned in a number of stories, and once a prostitute was with a person when he overdosed.

I received a review copy of this book from the author, and these are my honest thoughts about it. Links may be affiliate links, which will benefit Esther’s website if purchases are made through them.

About the Author:

Andrea Jo Rodgers holds a clinical doctorate in physical therapy and has worked as a physical therapist for 30 years, specializing in women’s health, oncology rehab, and ALS. She has served as a volunteer emergency medical technician on her town’s rescue squad for 37 years and has responded to more than 9,700 first aid and fire calls. She lives with her family on the east coast. She enjoys reading, writing, day trips, and savoring a slice of avocado toast along with a cup of green tea. Andrea’s latest book, Heavenly Rescues and Answered Prayers, shares more inspirational stories based on her experiences as a volunteer EMT.

More from Andrea:

Have you ever wished you could keep yourself and loved ones safe from danger? Perhaps you envision placing a protective bubble around the newest driver in the family or maybe figuring out a way for germs or cancer cells to bounce off those closest to you. For some, the desire may be not for physical protection but for safeguarding the hearts and minds of family members or friends during periods of personal difficulties.

I’ve been a volunteer emergency medical technician (EMT) on my town’s first aid and rescue squad for 37 years, responding to more than 9,700 emergency calls. Along with my fellow squad members, I’ve been called to help those suffering cardiac arrest, victims of trauma from accidents, near-drownings, people suffering from drug overdoses, and a variety of other medical emergencies. We’re blessed to be able to serve as instruments of God, acting as cogs in the wheel of heavenly orchestrated interventions. In my capacity as an EMT, I’ve observed firsthand how God carefully puts together all the pieces to create jaw-dropping, awe-inspiring rescues.

“Wow, that was a lucky save!” some might say. I believe it’s not luck at play but rather God’s saving grace. The orchestrator of miracles, He puts all the pieces in motion to create occurrences that are truly beyond mere coincidence. In Heavenly Rescues and Answered Prayers, I share my firsthand accounts of the ways God works to protect and save us. If we open our minds and hearts to the quiet presence of God in our lives, we’ll be able to recognize these heavenly rescues.

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