Book Review

Book Review–Preach It, Grace

October 16, 2024 by NZ Filbruns 4 Comments

About the Book:

Book: Preach It, Grace A Girl’s Testimony of Faith (Dream Pony Book 5)

Author: Susan Count

Genre: Middle-Grade

Release date: February, 2024

Sharing a pony worked perfectly, until it didn’t.

The pony share Grace worked out with her elderly neighbor was ideal—she thought. Mr. Harvey bought the buckskin gelding’s food and Grace fed him. The pony was important to both of them so it made no sense when the elderly man sent him away. And why won’t he tell her where?

My Thoughts:

This is a beautiful story of a young girl learning how to get along with a grumpy old man who is rapidly sinking into dementia. Grace’s mother did all she could to help the neighbor, and Grace took over caring for his pony. Maybe her motives weren’t altogether pure, since she desperately wanted a pony of her own, but the pony did need care! During the summer, Grace learned a lot about trusting God and obeying her parents. She also learned a lot about humility, not thinking she knew everything and could figure things out on her own, and how to get along with bullies. I also liked the way Grace’s parents were involved in her life, both encouraging her and giving consequences for bad decisions that Grace made. They were fair but firm. Also, the Gospel message is clearly shared, without preachiness. This is a good book for girls who love horses.

Language I didn’t appreciate: Chapter 1 includes “hurt like…the dickens” and “darn good.” Chapter 3: A man mentions cussing.

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:

Susan Count is a Kingdom Scribe who has published nine books in two equestrian series. As a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, American Christian Fiction Writers, and Texas Association of Authors, she takes studying the craft of writing seriously. Revision is her super-power.

Susan is a life-long equestrian and owned by a Rocky Mountain Horse that is kind hearted enough to take her on long, forested trail rides. She says the only thing more fun than riding might be writing horse adventure stories and she invites you to saddle up and ride along.

Read an Excerpt:

Saturday started early for Grace’s family. Serve Out Saturday was the church’s biggest outreach event all year, and everyone who could turned out to help. Grace manned the church’s front-door sign-in desk. After everyone got their work assignments, she ran with her clipboard for the van headed to the retirement home. When they arrived, many residents were already gathered.
She lined up with six other girls, and they sang the gospel songs the residents requested. She searched their faces until she found Mr. Harvey in the last row. Giving him a quick wave, she sang directly to him.

He didn’t sing along like many of the residents, but he stayed for the program. That counted as a victory. Did he recognize her? She couldn’t tell.

She stepped to the microphone. “Hello. I’m Grace. That means blessings from God.”

She grinned at the residents, and they smiled back at her. “Horses are my favorite thing, and they’re also blessings from God. If you’ve ever seen a horse, then you know they are magnificent, mighty creatures.”

Grace held a booklet high, then pointed with it to the residents. “This explains how we can know the God that blesses us. And how we can go to heaven to be with him someday. It says he sent his Son, Jesus, to teach us about eternal life.”

She placed her hands over the open Bible on the podium. “No matter how hard we try, we can’t be perfect, but because of Jesus, we are forgiven for all the things we do wrong. He suffered and died on the cross, was buried, then raised to life on the third day.” She looked into Mr. Harvey’s eyes. “He loves us that much.”

As she closed the Bible, she softened her voice. “Pray to your heavenly Father—ask him to help you believe in Jesus.”

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–Return of the Son

October 15, 2024 by NZ Filbruns 5 Comments

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Return of the Son by D.M. Griffin, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Return of the Son
Series: The Encounter #4
Author: D.M. Griffin
Publisher: Independently published
Release Date: October 10, 2024
Genre: Biblical Fiction

Her life was perfect. At least her childhood was. Eve never wanted anything except her father’s presence. As a prominent advisor to the evil King Herod, Eve’s father was split between his duties to the king and his duties as the only living parent for his daughter. With no heir to claim his family’s land, Eve’s father did what any loving father would do. He arranged for her betrothal. But this wasn’t just any betrothal. Her potential husband was related to the king she despised. With a rough marital journey ahead of her, she tenuously clings to the promises of God.

Not sharing her father’s enthusiasm or respect for the Herodian dynasty, Eve acted like the spoiled child she was upon first meeting her betrothed. With faulty expectations and prejudiced opinions, she did what she would to ruin the marriage before it began. It wasn’t until it was almost too late that Eve’s eyes were open and she saw the opportunity to experience love for the divine intervention that it was.

Fraught with political intrigue and personal challenges, would Eve be able to fully surrender to the life God wanted her to live by loving a man she thought she could never love? When that man’s shadows chase the family into the future, would Eve’s son pay the ultimate price? Or would God intervene there too? Could He? Only a single, unforeseen encounter could answer Eve’s impossible question. Does love truly conquer death?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

My Thoughts

I have read a couple of books by D. M. Griffin. I really enjoyed The Winds of Ruach, and though I didn’t like The Crooked Daughter quite so well, it was good enough that when I was invited to review Return of the Son I signed up for it without hesitation. I like some Biblical fiction—but I don’t like those books that are mainly focused on romance, or that try to recreate the story of a person in the Bible that we know a lot about and then add in a lot that doesn’t seem accurate. Based on my past experience, I felt like Return of the Son would be a book that I would enjoy.

I really enjoyed Return of the Son. This story was inspired by the few verses in one of the gospels about the widow in Nain; we know nothing else about her beyond those few verses. D. M. Griffin has created an epic story here that weaves together many stories that are in the gospels.

In a large part of this book, I found Eve very annoying. She jumped to conclusions and couldn’t seem to get beyond her preconceived ideas about the man her father had betrothed her to, especially after overhearing gossip that seemed to paint an unfavorable picture of him. I kept wondering what it would take to snap her out of that mindset. I wondered if she would ever be able to see him the way he really was.

I felt like Return of the Son was Biblically accurate in almost everything. The one thing I questioned was that Eve created a statue of two people. The author talked about this briefly in a note at the end of the book, but I’m not sure I agree with her conclusions.

I loved the way this author told the story of Jesus’ ministry from the point of view of people who lived far from Jerusalem and did not seek Him out. I also liked being able to get Herod’s family straighter in my mind. That family is important throughout the book, and I should now be able to remember how each of the men fits in to the Bible’s story. Overall, I found this book very good, and I’ll be watching for more books by this author.

More Books in This Series

About the Author

D.M. Griffin lives in California but grew up in beautiful New England. As a married woman with three adult children, she enjoys spending her time crafting novels that enhance the truth of Scripture. Her characters are biblically based and entirely captivating. She launched Devoted Steps Ministry in 2016. Besides keeping up with the daily prayers and devotionals on the devotedsteps.com website, she works at a local church. She is an avid reader as well as a writer. Long walks around the lake offer her space for inspiration. Besides biblical fiction, she also writes speculative Christian fiction novels.

Connect with D.M. Griffin by visiting devotedsteps.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card, signed paperback of Return of the Son, and a prayer shawl!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 15, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 22, 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. 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!

Book Review–A Weary World Rejoices

October 15, 2024 by NZ Filbruns 3 Comments

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for A Weary World Rejoices by Stacy Monson, Eleanor Bertin, Johnnie Alexander, Angela D. Meyer, and Sara Davison, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: A Weary World Rejoices
Series: A Mosaic Christmas Anthology VI
Authors: Stacy Monson, Eleanor Bertin, Johnnie Alexander, Angela D. Meyer, Sara Davison
Publisher: The Mosaic Collection, LLC
Release Date: October 16, 2024
Genre: Christian Christmas anthology

With nothing going as planned, will Christmas be a complete disaster this year?

The people in these stories are tired, weighed down by the struggles and cares of life. In the midst of their challenging situations, each receives an unexpected letter.

The Christmas Kiss – Stacy Monson
Unremarkable Sue – Eleanor Bertin
Love, Christmas – Johnnie Alexander
Gifting Christmas – Angela D. Meyer
The Back Door Christmas Tour Company – Sara Davison

Songs like “O Holy Night”are filling the airwaves and promising hope for a weary world, but what will it take for the men and women in these stories to experience true joy this Christmas?

A Weary World Rejoices is a collection of five stories about discovering joy in the midst of life’s challenges—at Christmas and every day of the year.

My Thoughts:

Over the past few years, I have read several of the Mosaic Christmas Anthologies. I always enjoy most of the stories in them. When I have the chance to request a review copy of one of them, I nearly always do. A Weary World Rejoices, this year’s edition, was no exception.

I would say my favorite stories in A Weary World Rejoices are Unremarkable Sue and The Back Door Christmas Tour Company. I loved Unremarkable Sue because Sue is just an ordinary girl, doing ordinary things, and helping out people she loves. I could also relate to parts of the story—like learning to drive a stick-shift! I loved The Back Door Christmas Tour Company because of both the unique setting and the transformations experienced by so many of the characters. It really showed how love and a listening ear have the ability to change people in a positive way.

I enjoyed The Christmas Kiss as well. It is a sequel to the story Stacy Monson submitted for Sounds Like a Plan, an anthology that came out a few months ago. It was fun to see what Piper was up to here. Love, Christmas is a very short story—but I loved it! The power of kindness…. Gifting Christmas is good also, and I enjoyed it, but it didn’t speak to me as much as the first two I mentioned. This anthology is a perfect book for when you want something easy to read and also easy to put down, as it is composed of several stories of various lengths.

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

WARNING: The Christmas Kiss: Oh my gosh, a kiss, a Christian man was ready to date an unbeliever. The Back Door Christmas Tour Company: a kiss.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

Also Available

About the Authors

Stacy Monson is the award-winning author of stories that reveal an extraordinary God at work in ordinary life. Residing in the beautiful, peaceful countryside outside of the Twin Cities with an old dog and 17 chickens. She has two kids, two wonderful in-law kids, and adores being G’ma to 7 amazing grandchildren.

Connect with Stacy at stacymonson.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

From her home in central Alberta, Canada, Eleanor Bertin writes fiction that ponders the depths of God’s love and mercy to humanity. She is the author of The Ties That Bind series, Lifelines, Unbound, and Tethered, the Burning Bright series, Flame of Mercy and Flicker of Trust, as well as the memoir, Pall of Silence, about her late son, Paul. She lives with her husband of 40 years and their youngest son, in what will someday be a beautiful century home.Connect with Eleanor at eleanorbertinauthor.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

Johnnie Alexander is a wannabe vagabond with a heart for making memories. As a bestselling, award-winning novelist, she has written more than thirty works of fiction in a variety of genres. She is both traditionally and indie-published, serves as board secretary for the Mosaic Collection, LLC (an indie-author group) and faculty chair for the Mid-South Christian Writers Conference; co-hosts Writers Chat, a weekly online show; and contributes to the Heroes, Heroines, and History blog. A fan of classic movies, stacks of books, and road trips, Johnnie shares a life of quiet adventure with Rugby, her raccoon-treeing papillon. Her grands call her “The Shadow” and dutifully follow this unbreakable rule ~ only she is allowed to open a new bag of Classic Lay’s potato chips.

Connect with Johnnie at johnnie-alexander.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

Angela D. Meyer writes fiction that showcases God’s ability to redeem and restore the brokenness in our lives. Angela currently lives in Nebraska, where she and her husband homeschooled and graduated both of their children. Angela is a part of the Mosaic Collection and writes stories that showcase God’s redemption and restoration in our brokenness. Angela enjoys sunrises and sunsets, the ocean when she gets a chance to visit, and hopes to ride in a hot air balloon someday.

Connect with Angela at angeladmeyer.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

Sara Davison is the author of The Night Guardians, The Rose Tattoo, two sparrows for a penny, and In the Shadows series, as well as the standalone, The Watcher. A finalist for more than a dozen national writing awards, including the Christy Award, Davison is a Holt Medallion, Cascade, and two-time Carol Award winner for romantic suspense. She lives in Ontario with her husband, Michael. Like every good Canadian, she loves coffee, hockey, poutine, and apologizing for no particular reason.

Connect with Sara at saradavison.org to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will win a paperback copy of A Weary World Rejoices as well as a metal wall hanging that says A Thrill of Hope, the Weary World Rejoices!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 14, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 21, 2024. Winner 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!

Book Review–Emeline Series

October 3, 2024 by NZ Filbruns 5 Comments

Welcome to the Blog Tour for the Emeline series by Kathy J. Perry, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book:

Title: A Journey
Series: Emeline #1
Author: Kathy J Perry
Publisher: Chickadee Words, LLC
Release Date: November 1, 2023
Genre: Christian Young Adult 19th Century American Historical Fiction

A promise made to her dying father; a struggle that tests her faith; a journey that pushes her resilience and resourcefulness to their limits

Emeline, a thirteen-year-old Missouri orphan, must set off on a quest across frontier America to fulfil her father’s last to find her grandfather in Boston.

Crossing this dangerous and unforgiving land alone, she must face challenges without losing her faith, rising to every test ahead if she’s to survive and find a home at the end of her adventure.

Will Emeline’s journey bring her the family she longs for?

Readers of Laura Ingalls Wilder and Louisa May Alcott will delight in this fast-paced adventure.

My Thoughts:

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author, and these are my honest thoughts about it. I rarely read Young Adult books. Almost all that I have seen have to do with romance, include too much sensual matter, or are fantasy, time travel, or some weird futuristic story. I tend to greatly prefer realism, and I don’t think Young Adults need romance. When I read the description of Emeline—A Journey, I was attracted to it because it sounded different. I was not disappointed by the content!

I really liked the content of this book. It describes life in a simpler time, and shows a girl who has been left alone in the world making the best of what she had, learning to make her own decisions. On the other hand, the writing style could definitely be improved; it felt a bit amateurish. Also, it did not feel realistic that she hardly showed any grief when her father died. She was sad, but quickly got up and going again, never crying much at all. I did appreciate that this book doesn’t portray a girl who can do everything; she knows she needs help from adults, and readily accepts help and advice. I also really liked that there is no romance, other than a few hints that Emeline liked the apprentice at the Witherspoons. I can highly recommend this book for those in the 12-16-year-old group, although when I read it to my children recently, though they enjoyed listening to it they weren’t as engrossed in it as they are in some.

About the Book:

Title: Finding Strength: During the Panic of 1893
Series: Emeline #2
Author: Kathy J Perry
Publisher: Chickadee Words, LLC
Release Date: March 1, 2024
Genre: Christian Young Adult Historical Fiction

When the world around you is falling apart, you must find strength within yourself.

Three years after her father’s death, Emeline has settled into life in Indianapolis.

Then an urgent visit to her childhood farm in Missouri changes everything. Her manager dies, the economy is in recession, and the caretakers are moving back to Wisconsin. Emeline is suddenly responsible for the farm… and she’s out of her depth.

With the help of her closest allies, Emeline sets out to turn the farm around until disaster strikes and she must start again. Emeline faces her biggest challenge finding the courage to have confidence in herself.

Can Emeline’s faith and resourcefulness bring her the joy and security she’s worked so hard to find?

This coming-of-age tale is a must-read for lovers of historical fiction.

My Thoughts:

I was not as impressed by Finding Strength as I was with A Journey. Emeline seemed very naive; she was 17 in this book, but still seemed to think and act much like she did when she was 13 in the first book. Also, it seemed like there were intense scenes added in just to try to add some excitement, such as a train robbery. There were two other robberies later that didn’t feel realistic—rather like, “Oh, our cows got stolen, let’s go buy a new herd”—without even searching for them or trying to find where they were taken off the property. Another anachronism I noticed was that Emeline and a young man went alone on several two-day business trips together—but as soon as he started courting her he informed her that they would always need to be chaperoned now. Also, the description of making maple syrup was not accurate. On the other hand, I liked how clean this book was. There was nothing off-color in it, nothing that would make me hesitate to hand it to children or young adults. I also liked the way the author made The Panic of 1893 come alive. I had not thought much before about the impact that ordinary people would have felt.

About the Author:

Of the many jobs she’s held in the past, including thirty-five years of designing and constructing stained glass windows part-time, teaching was one of the most enjoyable for Kathy J. Perry because investing in kids is so important. To this end, she continues to encourage good character with clean, moral stories kids and teens love to read. Good books make such an impact. Writing is hard work, but there’s nothing like a good story to run off with your imagination. When things are flowing, it’s like a vacation. Sometimes the best ideas come in the middle of the night. When not writing, you’ll find her painting with watercolor, doing school visits, writing a blog, interviewing other writers, designing websites, working as an administrative assistant part-time, and renovating houses. Is this retirement? Apparently so! She loves every minute of it with her husband of 43 years.Connect with Kathy by visiting kathyjperry.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

I received a complimentary copy of these books from the author, and these are my honest thoughts about them.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive signed print copies of A Journey and Finding Strength, companion journal, bookmarks, and a $25 Amazon gift card plus a code for free audiobooks for both titles!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 1, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 8, 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. 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!

Book Review–The Smell of Fall

September 30, 2024 by NZ Filbruns Leave a Comment

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.

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

September 26, 2024 by NZ Filbruns 15 Comments

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!

Book Review–Collision Course

September 25, 2024 by NZ Filbruns 2 Comments

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 18^th 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 18^th 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.

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.

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Book Review–Once Upon a Courtship

September 18, 2024 by NZ Filbruns 5 Comments

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.

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?)

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Book Review–Tales From the Matthewsburg Manse

September 13, 2024 by NZ Filbruns 5 Comments

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!

Book Review–Astounding Truths of the Bible

September 11, 2024 by NZ Filbruns 6 Comments

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.

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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