Little Homeschool on the Prairie

World Cup Communion Review

2026-04-14T14:31:00.000-05:00

Communion is an important aspect to many congregations. It doesn’t matter what your denomination is. Some do it weekly, monthly or once a year.

World Cup Communion has different packages available to fit yours needs. You can get them with grape juice or even wine. Another option is to order only the juice or just the bread alone. Or both of them together. You can order smaller quantities for a small gathering or larger for a congregation. The smaller bags is a great new addition for this company.

The concord juice and bread is tightly sealed. The seal was easy to pull off. The seal was made for elderly and young alike to pull off the seal without any hassle. They also created the seal to be silent when removing. The bread is baked at their facility and is baked fresh. There are options like unleavened, wheat, and even gluten-free. They also have wheat wafers. All the packaging is disposable. They have a 180 day shelf life in a cool and dry place. The company says that you can even freeze them up to a year.

The cups come in a variety to meet your needs. I received three 25 cup bags: Chalice Cups, Elements Cups, and Simply Cups.

Chalice Cups look like little chalices. The chalice is a clear plastic. The bottom of the stem has a piece of unleavened bread tucked inside.

Simply Cups are clear plastic cups with the unleavened bread sealed at the bottom. Nothing fancy with the cups.

Elements Cups are just the concord grape juice in a clear plastic container.

Throughout the years I have prepared cups for communion, Havdalah, and breaking bread for Shabbat at a congregation. Putting juice or wine into the small cups is a mess despite your best effort to keep from spilling. Even with all the gadgets it still tends to be messy. Not to mention when you pass out the cups all the spills while waiting for everyone to get theirs. Then your rushing to get new cups for the spilled ones!

I tried some of the prefilled Communion Cups from World Communion Cups, it sure is convenient and easy to use. I was impressed with it being user-friendly and the quality of the product. The juice was good and the bread tasted fresh and not stale. The biggest take away I had with these was the ease. Everything is prepared from the concord juice to the bread. This would be very practical for a large gathering-not to mention convenient!

This is very practical for home or hospital visits also. Sometimes I only have a large bottle of grape juice and you have to rush off to a nursing home or hospital because someone is wanting to do communion or have your break bread with them for Shabbat at the hospital. So your find yourself carrying a large bottle of juice and bread in a bag. World Cup Communion would be perfect for this setting. Small Bible studies both in your home or at another person’s home.

Overall I’m impressed with these communion cups. I love that you can order these in smaller and larger sizes. The different assortments to meet your needs is a time-saver and helpful. You can purchase these at: https://bit.ly/WCCInf

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#communion @frontgatem @worldcommunioncups

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through FrontGate Blogger Network in exchange for my honest thoughts.

Four Delightful Children Books About Our Amazing Jesuis

2026-03-24T22:53:00.003-05:00

My kids are grown now; I still love children’s books. I love reading them and looking at the content in the books. I must be a kid at heart and love exploring the illustrations in each book! Surely, I’m not the only adult that loves all the wonderful illustrations in books.

I’m excited to share these four books with you. These would make great presents for kids for any occasion.

Jesus, Our True Friend by Sally Lloyd-Jones
Hey-O Coloring Book by Saddleback Kids
The Glorious Image of God by Rousseaux Brasseur
Deep Breath, Little Whisper by Scott Jame

Jesus, Our True Friend by Sally Lloyd-Jones

This gorgeous 93- page hardback book contains 7 Bible stories about Jesus and an introduction about our Savior coming into the world.

The stories tell the story of Jesus life in a way that a child can grasp. Simple words but to the point to convey His salvation and love for us. I felt that the stories just didn’t show all fluff but stories of Jesus’ great love and His heart for the lost, outcast, and suffering.

The stories include:

Love Becomes a Human Being

The Two Sisters Jesus Loved

Jesus and the Stone Throwers

Jesus and the Deadly Storm

Our True Older Brother

Breakfast on the Beach

Hey-O Coloring Book by Saddleback Kids

A fun and simple coloring book with over 90 pages of fun. The pages tear out easily with the perforated pages. for kids to color. The pages are thick compared to your average coloring book.

The coloring book is based on the YouTube videos and storybook Hey-O! Stories of the Bible. The coloring pages are have Bible stories in the Old and New Testament. The illustrations are simple and not complex. A fun coloring book to add to your Bible story reading with your kids.

The Glorious Image of God by Rousseaux Brasseur

We are created in His image is the theme throughout this book. A memory verse is included in the book from Genesis 1:7.

The story weaves it’s way through creation and how we are made in His image. We are His Masterpiece and our unique among all of His creation.

Through His love He showed grace to us in the garden when we needed to be restored. The story ends with His resurrection and a reminder that no matter who we are that we are made in His image.

Deep Breath, Little Whisper by Scott James

Our relationship with Jesus is one of the most important things we can teach our children. Not only do we teach them to read the Bible but to spend time talking to Him. Prayer is very important tool in our relationship with Him. Kids seem to grasp prayer easily but its more than just words but a relationship and sharing your heart with Him. Not just morning and bedtime prayers. Taking your worries and even if it’s just a little whisper.

These are a delightful set of books that are a good addition to your home library or as a gift. You can purchase this book at : https://amzn.to/46jMIqg

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All of my words and thoughts about these books are my own honest thoughts.

@zonderkidz @rousseauxbrasseur @scott_h_james @thestoryofgodsgreatlove @zonderkidz #kidsbooks #zonderkidz #kidseastergifts #sponsored #ad

Titus and the Christian Coin: An Adventure of Faith and Freedom by Dennis Conrad with Co-Author Derinda Babcock Review and Giveaway

2026-03-23T10:50:00.000-05:00

About the Book

Book: Titus and the Christian Coin: An Adventure of Faith and Freedom

Author: Dennis Conrad with Co-Author Derinda Babcock

Genre: Young Adult Historical Fiction

Release Date: November 7, 2025

When Titus refuses to deny his Christian faith, Roman persecution destroys his family and condemns him to a brutal life in the copper mines of northern Italy.

Underground, surrounded by despair and danger, he must choose between hatred and hope, revenge and redemption.

From a mine collapse to an emperor’s audience hall, Titus’s journey spans the Roman Empire during Constantine’s transformative reign. Alongside Tribune Felix, he discovers that true freedom comes through forgiveness, not force. Authentic historical details bring ancient Rome to life while timeless themes of faith, friendship, and courage inspire modern readers.

This gripping adventure combines accurate historical research with compelling storytelling. Readers will witness early Christian persecution, experience Roman culture, and walk through Constantine’s palace while following Titus’s transformation from broken slave to Roman citizen.

An unforgettable tale where archaeological accuracy meets heart-pounding adventure, proving that faith can triumph over the darkest circumstances and that God’s love never abandons His people.

Click here to get your copy!

My Review:

My daughter and I have enjoyed several of Dennis Conrad’s previous books. My daughter was delighted to see one of his books for older kids/young adults. This time around Dennis Conrad has teamed up with another author Derinda Babcock. My daughter is a coin collector and loves history. This was the perfect book for her. Having a daughter that is a struggling reader and finding a book that captivates her is a bonus.

The story centers on faith and freedom. The era is 312 AD during Roman rule. Titus a young boy refuses to deny his faith. Both his parents died in the arena for their faith and Titus is about to experience his own persecution for his faith. Titus is taken from his home and family to work in the copper mines of Northern Italy. It’s a dangerous place working in the mines. Slavery is a hard and merciless life. Despite all of this Titus clings to his faith even when everything looks dark. Titus struggles and feels despair but he always finds strength to endure the hardship through his faith.

Titus shows grace and kindness to everyone in the mines. Through his courage and bravery he saves a Roman citizen. Most slaves would look the other way with his supervisor being a Roman citizen. He can’t look the other way and ends up saving his life in the mines. Now, Titus finds himself with an opportunity to be granted freedom. The road to getting his freedom isn’t an easy one. He has to rely on his faith to trust a man with his life.

The ended was very satisfying as it gave you a glimpse into the young boy becoming a man.

The book has maps of the journey and a glossary in the back of the book. There is information about coin collection along with some good resources.

This was a wonderful book that kept my daughter and I captivated to the last page.

I received a compl9imentary copy of this book in exchange of my honest review

About the Authors

DENNIS CONRAD is a retired Professor of Speech Communications. He’s taught in the U.K., Central Asia, and Asia. His picture book, Marcus and the Emperor’s Coin, won Carolina Christian Writer’s Conference First Place, Kudo’s Award, for best children’s book. He is a Fellow of the National Writing Project and an Amazon Bestselling Author. Dennis is a life member of the American Numismatic Association. His books are available on Audible.

DERINDA BABCOCK is an author and graphic designer. She lives in southwestern Colorado near the base of the western slope of the Rocky Mountains. In her previous career as an English as a Second Language teacher, she worked with students of all ages and many different linguistic and cultural backgrounds. The richness of this experience lends flavor and voice to the stories she writes.

More from Dennis

The Dairy Cow: The Origin of My Life as a Writer

By the Author of Titus and the Christian Coin

There it was at my fingertips. It was the evidence I needed to prove I’ve been a writer since childhood.

Imagine my surprise when I found The Dairy Cow in my garage. Not just any cow. It was the one I had drawn a picture of and written about in the 1960’s.

I walked by the image and ten lines of writing every day growing up because my mother placed the famed picture in the hallway on the way into my bedroom.

Why would something like this be so important to a man who has written an award-winning children’s book, Marcus and the Emperor’s Coin, and The Two-Cent Piece about the first coins with the words “In God We Trust?”

From starting school until fifth grade, I was a slow reader. My teacher took me aside one day after class and asked, “Have you ever had your eyes checked?”

My response. “No, but my father wears glasses.” After an eye exam, and glasses were prescribed, I could see.

My grades started improving. By the time I was in high school, I was given a scholarship to the six-week University of Kansas Speech and Debate Institute. It changed my life. I earned a master’s degree in Speech Communication. One year, I became Speech Coach of the Year. I ended my career as a Professor of Speech Communications.

The picture of the cow and the little I wrote about the history of cows is an heirloom from a bygone era.

Writing the earliest manuscript of Titus and the Christian Coin, my current young adult novel, required skills I acquired over a lifetime of writing including my writing and illustrating The Dairy Cow.

May God bless you and your family,

Dennis Conrad

Blog Stops

For Him and My Family, March 12

Simple Harvest Reads, March 13 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, March 14

Guild Master, March 15 (Author Interview)

A Simple Texas Girl, March 15

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 16

Fiction Book Lover, March 17 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 18

Vicky Sluiter, March 19 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, March 20

For the Love of Literature, March 21 (Author Interview)

Capturing Luminous, March 21

Lily’s Corner, March 22

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, March 23

Artistic Nobody, March 24

The Bookish Pilgrim, March 25

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Dennis is giving away the grand prize of a $100 Amazon Gift Card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://gleam.io/Vpjph/titus-and-the-christian-coin-celebration-tour-giveaway

NLT Wide Margin Bible, Filament Enabled (LeatherLike, Grace & Bloom, Red Letter) Book Review

2026-03-19T12:00:00.002-05:00

There are so many Bibles out on the market and you can find just about anything to fit your niche. I’ve reviewed quite a few over the years. I’ve seen many amazing features in Bibles throughout the years and some features that have made me cringe.

What it comes down to is that the Word of God isn’t watered down or changed for me. Unfortunately, I have seen some that are just that. I can look beyond the fads and the majority of translations and features as long as the Word of God’s hasn’t been altered drastically.

The New Living Translation is an easy translation for many to understand and I have found very appealing to many individuals.

I have the beautiful Grace & Bloom, LeatherLike cover. If you want more of a traditional elegant cover you can purchase that also. They have a beautiful Sage Green cover and others to choose from. I use to like simple covers but, now I lean towards something that catches my eyes.

Some features include the Wide Margin that is for journaling. You can write down sermon notes or scripture references. There are faint lines for writing notes. I have friends that doddle and add their own own art for portions of the scripture. The paper isn’t extremely thin but certain pens or markers may bleed through. I am not a journaling type of a gal or a doodler. I’ll write scriptures or notes in my Bible but, that is my extend of writing in my Bible. It’s just not my niche.

The Filament feature is very practical and you can scan the pages to access over 25,000 study notes, 1,500+ devotionals, over 350 videos, maps and infographics, topics, and much more. There is also a decent library of worship music. You can dive in deeper study on topics. It’s a nice feature for those who like to access these types of features. The Filament App is free.

The Bible has a single margin. A few scripture references and a tad bit of notes. If you are looking for a Study Bible then this is were you will use The Filament App. This isn’t a study Bible in itself if that is what you are wanting. The words of Jesus are Red-lettered.

There is a Tyndale Verse Finder in the back for a word/topical study that will direct you to varies scripture verses.

Another feature I like is the Visual Overview of the Bible. It has several key events that are laid out in a visual format. Everything from maps, the plaques of Egypt, the Feast of the Lord, and several other visuals that put the scripture in a visual aspect. I thought this section was nicely done.

You can find out more about at https://bit.ly/NLTWideMarginFG

If your interested in purchasing you can click on this link https://bit.ly/NLTWideMarginFG

@tyndalebibles and @nltbible @frontgatem #studybible #biblejournaling

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through FrontGate Blogger Network in exchange for my honest thoughts.

Moms of the Bible: Life-Changing Lessons from the Fearless, Flawed, and Faithful By Rhonda Stoppe Book Review and Giveaway

2026-03-05T13:58:00.003-06:00

Biblical Encouragement for Everyday Motherhood

Have you ever whispered to yourself, I’ll be a better mom tomorrow…but tomorrow never comes? Maybe you’re comparing yourself to other moms and feel you aren’t measuring up. But don’t lose hope. Just as moms in Scripture learned from life’s ups and downs, with God’s help, you can become the mom you long to be.

Moms of the Bible explores timeless life lessons from Bible moms of all types, revealing how their stories of failure, faith, and hope can help you fulfill your own calling with confidence. From the redeemed Rehab to the horrible Herodias, each story unveils eye-opening insights and powerful applications that can help you as you seek to raise up children who impact their generation with fearless faith.

Author Rhonda Stoppe engages you with the warmth and wisdom of a trusted friend who’s been there herself. For mothers of all ages and stages―including step, adoptive, foster, and grandmothers raising their grandkids―this uplifting look at the moms of Scripture will empower you to influence the culture in profound ways through your sacred ministry of motherhood.

My Thoughts:

The most rewarding and difficult job is being a mom. Everything we do has consequences one way or another with our children. I want my children to see Jesus in me and my prayer has always been to let me be a light in my words and actions to my children’s lives. Some days my actions and words aren’t showing Jesus’ light. While you may hear people joke about parenting doesn’t come with a manual. The good news is that there is a manual and the only one we need is in the Bible.

You can purchase this at https://bit.ly/momsofthebiblefg

In this book every chapter focuses on a woman from the Bible. Not every woman is perfect and has flaws and makes mistakes. There is not sugar coating it in the Bible nor does the author just show moms being perfect godly woman. So you can sigh in relief they weren’t all perfect!

The book is broken up in three parts: Fearless Moms, Flawed Moms, and Faithful moms. It touches on Rehab, Mary, Herodias, Lot’s wife, Eve, and other mothers. I’ve dived into to varying studies of the Bible but I can honestly say I have never done one that looks at several of the mothers throughout the Bible.

This was a very easy and quick read. I liked that it links scriptures and you can also scan the QR code or use the address link to hear Rhonda teach on the chapter. It was a nice addition to the book. The chapter ends with “Life Lessons” which has some practical insight and other scriptures to look at.

The book points out very practical advice. Like letting us let out kids see how important our own relationship is with Jesus. That alone makes a huge impact on our kid’s lives.

This could be used by grandmothers, mom’s to be, or even foster moms too. This would also make a good book for a mom’s Bible study.

I enjoyed this book and thought it was inspiring read that I needed at this time. You can enter to win a copy of yourself here or click below.

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through FrontGate Blogger Network in exchange for my honest thoughts.

#momsofthebible #noregretswoman #biblestudy #christianmom

@rhondastoppe FB @NoRegretsWoman @frontgatem

Ambush of the Heart by Mary Connealy Book Review and Giveaway

2026-03-02T06:00:00.036-06:00

About the Book

Book: Ambush of the Heart

Author: Mary Connealy

Genre: Historical Romance

Release Date: February 3, 2026

When bandits strike in the wilderness, can love and faith overcome the shadows of danger?

As Owen Riley and his fellow Marshals escort Delaney Bridger, her brother, and an escaped prisoner to Fort Russell, a gang of outlaws ambushes them, bringing death and devastation to their party. With their lives on the line and the outlaws in pursuit, Owen directs the rest of his battered group to temporarily seek hiding at a remote ranch.

After the attack leaves her brother seriously injured, Delaney helps Owen, nursing him and a wounded Marshal back to health while danger looms ever closer. Despite the threat at their heels, romance sparks between Owen and Delaney as they fight for survival on their perilous trek to the fort. Can they overcome the obstacles and find a future together?

Click here to get your copy!

My Review:

I’m still in my funk with reading books that I normally don’t read. Mary Connealy is a new author for me.

This is the first book in the “Rocky Mountain Marshals” series. The story starts out with a bang-literally into a gun fight.

The year is 1870; Owen Riley and several of his US Marshals are escorting the family of the new commander of Fort Riley. The two grown children need their protection to get to their destination. Along with the family they have a prisoner. They leave Colorado to heading to Cheyenne, Wyoming. The prisoner’s family devises a plan to break him out. Many of the men are injured in the escape plans and the stakes are higher with getting everyone to Wyoming safely. They decide to take a more dangerous and rugged route after the ambush.

The characters are complex and delightful. Delaney is a spit fire and strong willed woman. All the women traveling are tough as nails and God fearing women. I love the faith of all the individuals.

This is a page turner and fast paced plot. The end was a tad of a cliff hanger with parts of the story. I suspect that it will fill in the blanks in the next book in the series. I’m glad I took a chance to explore a new author. I was pleased with the book and look forward to the next book in the series.

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through Celebrate Lit Bloggers in exchange for my honest thoughts.

About the Author

Mary Connealy writes “romantic comedies with cowboys” and is celebrated for her fun, zany, action-packed style. She has sold more than 1.5 million books and is the author of the popular series A Western Light, Wyoming Sunrise, and many other books. Mary lives on a ranch in eastern Nebraska with her very own romantic cowboy hero.

More from Mary

Two things drove my interest in The Rocky Mountain Marshals Series. In book #1, Ambush of the Heart, I got to begin that adventure.

The first thing: U.S. Marshals. I did a bit of research and just began discovering how much I didn’t know. I mean…what are U.S. Marshals? The only one I could think of was Rooster Cogburn in True Grit. But my research was confusing. Yes, there were lawmen out hunting for outlaws. But a lot of that was because Oklahoma Territory back then was Indian territory and thus, had no law beyond tribal law. And, because of that, outlaws had gotten to running into Oklahoma and treating it like they’d reached base in a game of tag.

Because it was federal, the government came up with a federal solution. The U.S. Marshals Service already existed. But chasing outlaws into a place with no law…that was new. I went to Fort Smith, Arkansas, known back in the past as the gateway to Indian territory. So many outlaws passed through there that, a part of my research led me to the brand-new U.S. Marshals Museum in Fort Smith.

I could write an entire series about Bass Reeves alone, a former slave who became a U.S. Marshal. Some of my reading suggests he was in part the inspiration for the Lone Ranger and it’s said in his 32 year career as a marshal he arrested 3000 outlaws. He has a TV Series on Paramount+ TV. A network I don’t have.

I found so much of this out because I went on a research trip. (I don’t do that often) Very fun and I learned a LOT.

My second driving interest was…just how lost could someone get in the wilds of the Rocky Mountains? I’ve read so much about Pathfinders…Kit Carson, John Colter, James Beckwourth, John Mullen (a guy I’d never heard of who is so interesting he deserves his own book!). I definitely count Sacagawea among them. These bold, adventurous explorers who went out in the wilderness and found their way through. It was NOT easy.

One thing I found really interesting (all those pathfinders are interesting!) was talk about The Donner Party. That Donner Pass cut 400 miles off the trip to California on the California trail. That might sound ridiculous to us, but back then, in a wagon train, especially in rugged country, that 400 miles was a huge lure. Of course they tried it. People were always trying to find a shorter way through those treacherous mountains.

So, my hero Owen, is transporting a federal prisoner who escaped jail, from Denver to Fort Russell near Cheyenne, Wyoming—where he’s due to hang.

An attempt to break him free by his gang drives the escorts and those with them—including beautiful Delaney, into the Rockies and whoa…they didn’t know how to get out…especially one pair who got separated from the main party.

One other twist is, my three heroes…the guys (the women are heroes, too of course) but the men, Owen, Morgan and Tex, all appeared in the book Marshaling Her Heart, book three in my Wyoming Sunrise series. Writing that book awakened my interest in U.S. Marshals. And I loved those tough men and wanted to … ahem … well, maybe tame them just a little.

So come and join me as my travelers, including the bold and brave Owen Riley and the beautiful and trail savvy Delaney Bridger, are chased from behind and more lost with every step they take ahead. They fight the outlaws, the Rockies and their growing attraction, to find their way home.

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, February 18

Holly’s Book Corner, February 19

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 19

For Him and My Family, February 20

Betti Mace, February 21

Devoted To Hope, February 22

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 23

Pause for Tales, February 23

lakesidelivingsite, February 24

She Lives To Read, February 25

Labor Not in Vain, February 26

Jeanette’s Thoughts, February 26

Books You Can Feel Good About, February 27

Lyssa Loves Books, February 27

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 28

Cover Lover Book Review, March 1

Bizwings Blog, March 2

Jodie Wolfe, March 2

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, March 2

Connie’s History Classroom, March 3

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Mary is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Bookshop.org gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://gleam.io/3eYes/ambush-of-the-heart-celebration-tour-giveaway

Light to My Path Celebration by Erica Vetsch Book Review and Giveaway

2026-03-02T06:00:00.004-06:00

About the Book

Book: Light To My Path

Author: Erica Vetsch

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: February 10, 2026

A determined orphan caretaker and a wealthy mine owner—brought together by circumstance, tested by tragedy, and transformed by love.

Sam Mackenzie learned the hard way not to trust a beautiful face. After breaking his engagement to a fortune-hunting socialite, he’s focused solely on his family’s mining business. But when his aunt asks him to help escort three orphans and their caretaker across the country, he finds himself drawn to the selfless young woman tasked with the children’s care.

Eldora Carter has spent her life depending on no one but herself. As a former orphan now caring for three unwanted children, she knows better than to dream of a different future. When a journey by rail turns perilous, she must rely on Sam’s help to keep the children safe. Yet accepting his assistance means risking her heart to a man who could never want someone like her. As danger forces them to work together, Eldora discovers that sometimes the greatest risk is refusing to love at all.

Click here to get your copy!

My Review:

What a heartfelt story that I enjoyed reading. I’m not usually a western romance genre. I’m a huge fan of Erica Vetsch books and I knew it be a great story. This is the second book in the “Brides of the West” series. I have not read the first book in the series. Light to My Path was just as delightful without the first book which focuses on David.

Sam Mackenzie is an all around good guy. He is just days away from getting married. While he is waiting in the foyer for his future wife Sam over hears a conversation with his fiancé and mother-in-law. He was left stunned and upset by the conversation and confronts them. He leaves the home with no engagement and a different future set before him that he imagined.

Sam’s aunt works at an orphanage and has asked Sam if he would escort and assist a young woman Elle and three children as they are transported to a new orphanage in another state.

Eldora (Elle) spent many years in the orphanage and now just trying to survive. When she gets fired from her job she goes back to the orphanage to see if they can assist her. Instead she is given charge to three children Phin, Tick, and Celeste and takes them to Denver. She already knows the children and they are fond of Elle. Sam is not what she expects and he is unlike any wealthy person she has met. Elle is very guarded and doesn’t see herself as anything special.

Sam can’t help to not come to care for the children and even Elle. Elle doesn’t aspect anything from him and is grateful for everything.

The journey is nothing but simple as the plight ends up one adventure after another. There are many unexpected events along the way. The children will melt your heart. The characters are well developed in a short novel. My only disappointment was it ended so fast. I wanted more after they arrived at their destination.

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through Celebrate Lit Bloggers in exchange for my honest thoughts.

About the Author

Best-selling, award-winning author of The Debutante’s Code, first in the Thorndike & Swann Regency Mystery Series, Erica Vetsch loves Jesus, history, romance, and sports. When she’s not writing fiction, she’s planning her next trip to a history museum.

More from Erica

Trains. I love trains. I got this love from my father, who is fascinated by all types of trains. When writing Light to My Path, I asked my dad lots of questions, and I relied heavily upon the things I learned at the train museums he took me to see.

One of our favorite train museums is in Duluth, MN. The Lake Superior Railroad Museum, in what was the former depot of the Gilded Age boomtown, is home to one of the most beautiful trains I have ever seen.

It’s name is the William B. Crooks, and it is a steam locomotive.

The William Crooks, the first train engine of any kind in Minnesota belonging to the St. Paul & Pacific Railroad by railroad tycoon James J. Hill of St. Paul. The William Crooks pulled its first train cars full of passengers on June 28, 1862. The William Crooks retired from passenger service in 1897.

Isn’t it beautiful? When the train retired from passenger service, it became the personal train of James J. Hill, The Empire Builder and owner of The Great Northern Railroad.

James J. Hill dreamed of pushing a railroad from Minnesota to the West Coast, through the Rocky and Cascade Mountains. It was along the Great Northern Railroad in March of 1910 that one of the worst train disasters in US history occurred. An avalanche took out two trains, killing 96 people.

This historic event inspired part of the story in Light to My Path. A train, trapped by snow, unable to go forward or back, and with an avalanche imminent. It’s the kind of book that calls for a warm blanket and a hot cup of tea!

You can read more about both the William Crooks and the Cascade Avalanche Disaster at these websites:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Crooks_(locomotive)

https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/march-1/trains-buried-by-avalanche

Blog Stops

Books Less Travelled, February 19

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 20

Sydney Schmied Books, February 20

Texas Book-aholic, February 21

For Him and My Family, February 22

Devoted To Hope, February 23

Lyssa Loves Books, February 23

She.lives.to.read, February 24

lakesidelivingsite, February 24

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 25

Melissa’s Bookshelf, February 26

Blossoms and Blessings, February 26

Simple Harvest Reads, February 27 (Guest Review from Mindy)

Books You Can Feel Good About, February 28

Devoted Steps, March 1

Bizwings Blog, March 1

Book Looks by Lisa, March 2

Little Homeschool on the Prairie , March 2

Cover Lover Book Review, March 3

Holly’s Book Corner, March 3

Lock, Hooks and Books, March 4

Pause for Tales, March 4

To celebrate her tour, Erica is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://gleam.io/IemaN/light-to-my-path-celebration-tour-giveaway

Every Woman Bible NLT (Filment Enabled) Book Review

2026-02-26T16:24:00.005-06:00

There are so many Bibles out on the market and you can find just about anything to fit your niche. The most important aspect is that it’s the living Word of God within the pages despite your preference.

The Bible is stunning and beautiful. I love that it looks classy and elegant on the outside and inside. The LeatherLike cover is soft and comes in a variety of colors. I happen to have the Olive Branch Green color. Which greens in this tone tend to be my favorite color. Other colors include a sky blue, pink petals, camel, gold dust, and other colors to choose from.

The New Living Translation is and easy translation for many to understand for both young and old. I have came to the conclusion that the translation isn’t as important as someone being able to understand and read God’s word is what matters.

The Filament feature is very practical study tool. You can scan the pages to access devotionals, maps, worship music, videos, and other content throughout the Bible. It has features that can take you into a deeper study on topics. It’s a nice feature for those who like to access these types of features. The Filament App is absolutely free.

The Filament App is free.

Every books starts out with an introduction that highlights a general history and highlights certain areas. The books is also divided into 30 minute segments to enhance your study of the book.

There are study notes and devotionals throughout the pages. Many of the topics center around women that are relatable and encouraging for everyday life. Other sections throughout each book includes Image, Identity, Come Close, Perspective, Insight, What the Bible Says About, She Says, and other features. Over 100 women contributors, scholars, and writers from several countries.

This is a delightful Bible. You can learn more at https://bit.ly/EveryWomanBibleFG

If your interested in purchasing one for yourself or someone special you can do so at https://bit.ly/EveryWomanBibleFG.

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through FrontGate Blogger Network in exchange for my honest thoughts.

#StudyBible #NLT #Filament @TyndaleBibles @NLTBible @frontgatem

Plain Jane’s Secret Admirer by Anne Blackburne Book Review and Giveaway

2026-02-09T06:00:00.001-06:00

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About the Book

Book: Plain Jane’s Secret Admirer (The Heart of the Amish Book 11)

Author: Anne Blackburne

Genre: Amish/Christian Fiction

Release Date: January, 2026

Secrets Surround Shy Jane Bontrager

Full of faith, hope, and romance, this series takes you into the Heart of Amish country.

Sweet, shy, and devoted Amish woman, Jane Bontrager secretly hates her childhood nickname of Plain Jane. She doesn’t know who started the ugly name back in her school days, but she can never forget how it has long made her feel.

Jane has a huge crush on Amish buggy maker Samuel Mast, but they are both so shy they are more likely to turn old and gray alone than to ever get together—especially since Samuel holds a secret or two of his own.

What can bridge the gap between two young people who both deserve love and happiness?

Click here to get your copy!

My Review:

Plain Jane’s Secret Admirer (The Heart of the Amish Book 11) this is a sweet story of two individuals who have liked one another since grade school. Jane is quiet and reserved to those who don’t know her well. She is also a bit self conscious since she was dubbed Plain Jane in school. The name embedded its way into her self confidence and she has always felt just plain and nothing special.

Samuel Mast has his own secret as he is the one who created the name when the boys were teasing him in grade school about liking Jane. It was a moment that he regretted and has haunted him. They are both shy and don’t have a lot of confidence to share their feeling towards one another.

Jane and her friend are left running the Plain Beignet when the owner goes on her honeymoon for two weeks. Jane lives in one of the apartments above the business with her cat Secret. She will be caring for Little Mouse while the owner is away too. The first day of being in charge disaster happens with a leaking roof and repairs needed. Then sweet Little Mouse goes missing. The cat can’t be found anywhere. With the help of Samuel Mast and friends they run into several mishaps and are trying to figure out whom Jane’s secret admirer is that is leaving presents at the back door.

A heartfelt story that will warm your heart and keep you turning the pages. It’s full of humor, mystery, faith, friendship, and a bit of romance. I love the tails of the purring cats in this story and all the other books in this series.

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through Celebrate Lit Bloggers in exchange for my honest thoughts.

About the Author

Anne Blackburne lives and works in Southeast Ohio as a newspaper editor and writer. She is the mother of five grown children, has one wonderful grandchild, and a spoiled poodle named Millie. For fun, when she isn’t working on Amish romance or sweet mysteries, Anne directs and acts in community theater productions and writes and directs original plays. She also enjoys reading, kayaking, swimming, searching for beach glass, and just sitting with a cup of coffee looking at large bodies of water. Her idea of the perfect vacation is cruising and seeing amazing new places with people she loves.

More from Anne

The amazing bloggers who work with Celebrate Lit are going to do a blog tour for my brand new book in Barbour’s “Heart of the Amish” series, “Plain Jane’s Secret Admirer”!

Jane’s story is available now to readers in print and online wherever fine books are sold, and I feel so blessed to have the help of the Celebrate Lit folks in launching this next tale from my made-up Amish community of Willow Creek, Ohio.

If you read any of my previous three Heart of the Amish books in the series, “Ruth’s Gingersnap Surprise”, “Mary’s Calico Hope”, and “Lizzie’s Little Mouse”, you’ll remember Jane Bontrager, their good friend who lives and works with Lizzie in her New Orleans Style French/Amish bakery in Willow Creek. Jane was also mentioned in Ruth’s story as one of the lucky recipients of a kitten from their elderly friend, Lydia’s, cat’s final litter.

Jane’s cat is a tabby named Secret, because she can tell her fluffy pal all of the wishes, hopes and dreams closest to her heart.

As the story opens, Jane is waving her brother John and Lizzie off on their wedding trip, promising to take good care of the bakery – and Lizzie’s precious cat, Little Mouse – while they are away.

But then Jane finds a mysterious note from someone claiming to be her secret admirer taped to the back door of the bakery, and her heart flutters, wondering if it could possibly be her long time crush, Samuel Mast, the buggy maker, who put it there, along with a whimsical little gift.

Between a water leak that damages ceilings in the bakery building and the sudden disappearance of both Secret and Little Mouse, Jane has no time to wonder who left the note and gift; she needs help!

And Samuel Mast, who is indeed her secret admirer, is ready to step up to the plate and do whatever it takes to help Jane find the cats, repair the bakery, and maybe even discover love along the way.

But Sam has a secret of his own. He’s the one who accidentally-on-purpose saddled her with the nickname “Plain Jane” when they were kids. He has no idea how to confess his mistake, or his love.

Will Jane and Sam be able to get past Sam’s terrible secret? And will they find the missing cats before Lizzie gets home? Don’t lose hope; with God, everything is possible!

Thank you for taking the time to learn about Jane’s story! This book is my fourth in Barbour Publishing’s series, “The Heart of the Amish”. Look for other great reads in the series from authors Mindy Steele, Kelly Irvin and Lisa Jones Baker.

I’m currently writing my fifth book in the series, which will feature a young woman you’ve met in some of my other stories, Miriam Zook. Miriam is a talented artist who paints stylized folk art paintings depicting scenes from Amish life.

Just like her friends, Miriam received a kitten from Lydia; a black and white fellow named Beauregard, or Beau for short. Her story, “Miriam’s Little Gentleman”, is due out in May, 2026.

I hope you’re having as much fun reading about these remarkable young women – and their kitties! – as I’m having writing about them. Thanks for being part of our journey!

As for me and mine, we are all well and enjoying a crisp winter in southeast Ohio.

God bless you and yours!

Joyfully,

Anne Blackburne

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 29

Texas Book-aholic, January 30

Simple Harvest Reads, January 31 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

lakesidelivingsite, February 1

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 2

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 3

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, February 4

Bizwings Blog, February 5

The Avid Reader, February 5

For Him and My Family, February 6

Jeanette’s Thoughts , February 7

Mary Hake, February 8

Holly’s Book Corner, February 8

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, February 9

Cover Lover Book Review, February 10

Book Holds and Jello Molds, February 10

Vicky Sluiter, February 11

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Anne is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon Gift Card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://gleam.io/Gzisa/plain-janes-secret-admirer-celebration-tour-giveaway

Scent of Sabotage by Dana Mentink

2025-12-29T08:32:00.011-06:00

About the Book

Book: Scent of Sabotage

Author: Dana Mentink

Genre: Inspirational Romantic Suspense

Release Date: December 30, 2025

Detective Beth Wolfe’s reunion with investigative journalist Jack St. James is a matter of life or death—and when a masked assailant attacks them, a severe blow leaves Jack with amnesia. Beth and her K-9, Arthur, are determined to keep Jack safe while he regains his lost memories. Was he targeted due to a case he was working on…or does it have something to do with the son they placed for adoption decades ago? When their investigations lead them inside an amusement park, it’s a race against the clock to put all the pieces together and uncover the park owners’ nefarious plot…or die trying.

Click here to get your copy!

My Review:

Dana Mentink brings her latest series, Security Hounds Investigations, to an epic conclusion. Unfortunately, I haven’t read any of the other books in this six book series. I found that I was able to jump right into the story despite having not read the other books in the series. Dana Mentink has always been one of my favorite authors and she is very diverse with her series and never fails to disappoint.

Beth Wolfe, owner of the Security Hounds Detective Agency. Beth is a widow and loves her family deeply. She does have a secret that is surfacing after all these years. Investigative journalist Jack St. James her high school sweetheart calls her with one word- Adam. The son they gave up for adoption as teenagers. Beth meets with Jack and he is attacked. The attack leaves Jack with lapses in his memory to why he contacted Beth. As he regains his memories he recalls that Adam with whom he is building a relationship with contacts him. Adams girlfriend Tess goes missing.

Beth puts her security dog, Arthur on the trail. If you have ever known a hound dog then you know that they are amazing and amusing. Even though I have a mixed hound dog he has a lot of hound dog in him. I couldn’t help to not laugh at Arthur and the other dogs throughout.

Scent of Sabotage was a riveting page turner. It had suspense, danger, dogs, romance, and humor. I loved the plot twists that completely surprised me. The dogs are unforgettable and really add a added thread that weaves its way into this heartfelt story.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.)

About the Author

Dana Mentink is a New York Times, USA Today and Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author as well as a two-time American Christian Fiction Writers Carol Award winner, and a Holt Medallion winner. She is the author of over fifty titles in the suspense and lighthearted romance genres. She is pleased to write for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense, Revell and Poisoned Pen Press.

More from Dana

How could we be at the end of a series? I’ve been having a wonderful time with the Wolfe family and their house full of hounds. The last book is finally Beth’s story. She’s the matriarch of the family who has experienced the loss of a spouse. In this story, she will meet the son she never knew and explore the idea of learning to love again. I feel especially fond of this book because Beth is an older heroine who has some living under her belt. She’s learned how to carry on, with her old dog Arthur, and stand faithfully in the face of adversity. Now that’s a heroine I can root for! I hope you enjoy this final installment of the Security Hounds series!

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, December 16

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, December 16

The Avid Reader, December 17

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 17

Pause for Tales, December 18

EmpowerMoms, December 18

Bizwings Blog, December 19

Texas Book-aholic, December 19

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 20

Alyssa Amey, December 20

Life on Chickadee Lane, December 21

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 21

Leslie’s Library Escape, December 22

For Him and My Family, December 22

Devoted To Hope, December 23

Blogging With Carol, December 23

Because I said so, December 24

Artistic Nobody, December 25 (Guest Review from Donna)

Lily’s Corner, December 26

Mary Hake, December 26

Labor Not in Vain, December 27

Blossoms and Blessings, December 27

Holly’s Book Corner, December 28

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, December 28

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, December 29

Lights in a Dark World, December 29

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Dana is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://gleam.io/T2I2F/scent-of-sabotage-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Love 41 Lanita Small Crossbody bag from Saddleback Leather Review

2025-12-15T06:48:00.001-06:00

I enjoy well-made leather products. A good quality leather will last a long time. Good leather will age with even more beauty over time.

Recently, I have been sporting a Lanita Small Crossbody from Saddleback Leather. This particular design will fit well with a pair of jeans, work attire, or a night out.

Saddleback Leather was founded by Dave Munson. He wanted a good-looking and well-made leather bag that would last. His philosophy of creating heirloom-quality pieces that will outlive you! Depending on what you are buying, the majority of their bags have a 100-year warranty. The Love 41 products are covered by a 41-year warranty.

Lanita Small Crossbody is a full-grain leather bag. The leather is stiffer. Beautiful brass hardware and a Spanish zipper. There are two inside pockets with zippers. An adjustable strap that can be removed. The strap will adjust from 36.25” to a max of 63.25”. You can choose from three colors: black, chestnut, and dark coffee. I have the chestnut color.

I personally love the beautiful design on the purse. The colors are bright and make a statement. It has a Native American design. The design and feel of it remind me of an authentic Indian blanket my in-laws have. I love the brass studs that complement the design. It’s beautifully crafted.

You can fit a small wallet, phone, keys, and other essentials that we ladies like to carry around. This is the smaller bag. If you prefer more space, you have plenty to choose from. It is available in a medium, tote bag, clutch, and backpack. You can also add a matching wallet to complement it.

Saddleback Leather has a large selection to choose from: briefcases, travel bags, backpacks, purses, footwear, wallets, belts, notebooks, and even a cute leather teddy bear. Basically, there is something for every budget. If you need a gift for someone special or just something for yourself, you can easily find something at Saddleback Leather. Gift cards are also available. Check out the selections yourself.

Saddleback Leather also supports ministry. Their Love 41 gives to Africa New Life Ministries. Your purchase helps support orphans and street kids in Rwanda, and other ministries in Africa and Mexico.

Saddleback Leather is impressive. If you're interested to learn more about their backstory, you can read about it here.

Website

Facebook

Instagram

#hanukkahgift #ChristmasGift #SaddlebackLeather #LeatherBag

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through FrontGate Blogger

The Underdog by Dr. Hakam Bhullar Review and Giveaway

2025-11-06T08:04:00.003-06:00

Dr. Bhullar went against the mainstream veterinarian establishments. He created a low-cost clinic in Vancouver. Dr. Bhullar is an Indo-Canadian veterinarian who experienced racism.

The low-cost clinic upset many other veterinarians in the area, who charged significantly higher prices and felt the impact on their practices due to Dr. Bhullar’s clinic. The effect of his clinic caused a lot of trouble with other veterinarians in the area. The British Columbia Veterinary Medical Association targeted him and other Indo-Canadian vets. There was a lot of racism, and this dragged on for years of long trials.

It's unthinkable that all the lies and false evidence that were planted against him and the vets in his practice. He did nothing wrong and just wanted to help animals get the care they needed. Even though he did nothing wrong, they revoked his license to practice. Dr. Bhullar refused to stand down despite the 2 million-dollar cost of attorneys and other financial and mental hardship it brought on him and his family.

The book was slow-paced, but it was intriguing and inspiring. The discrimination is sickening. I volunteer in shelters and foster animals, and I see the ugly impact that the cost of medical care has on animals. The shelters pay a high price for those sick animals that could have been a simple fix if they would have taken the animals to the vet. Yet, I understand that the cost is high and people struggle to care for their animals. I have several special needs animals in my care. Stories like this always make me wonder what I would do in this situation. It takes courage, faith, and passion to take on an establishment.

Details about the book: A true David and Goliath story—of courage, conviction, and the fight for justice:

https://drbhullarvet.com/

You can purchase the book: https://amzn.to/49fd0vR

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through FrontGate Blogger

#theunderedog #pets #animallover #justiceforall

A Hidden Hope by Suzanne Woods Fisher Book Review & Giveaway

2025-10-17T07:17:00.000-05:00

About the Book

Book: A Hidden Hope

Author: Suzanne Woods Fisher

Genre: Amish Fiction

Release Date: October 7, 2025

Supervising two newly minted medical residents might be the toughest challenge Ruth “Dok” Stoltzfus has ever faced. Wren Baker, sharp and ambitious, graduated at the top of medical school with a hidden agenda in tow. Charlie King, at the bottom of the class, is determined to succeed–though Dok isn’t convinced he’s got what it takes. Then there’s traveling nurse Evie Miller, whose quiet love for Charlie doesn’t go unnoticed, especially by Wren.

Boarding at Windmill Farm, the trio struggles to balance modern medicine with plain living. Between medical emergencies, cultural misunderstandings, and brewing romantic tensions, Dok finds herself juggling far more than she bargained for. Soon the stage is set in the small Amish community of Stoney Ridge for plenty of professional and personal complications.

Click here to get your copy!

My Review:

I was happy to return to Stoney Ridge and get caught up with Dok, Annie, and other characters. A few new characters as well.

Doc’s medical practice has kept her busier than ever. The doctor receives two residents and one traveling nurse. It came as a last-minute surprise because she forgot about the program. Doc, being so busy, didn’t get around to reading the paperwork. She had to scramble to find them a place to stay and other fine details of the program at the last minute.

Doc isn't sure how to fit the three into her practice. She is always on the go, and the worry of her Amish clients accepting outsiders.

Wren is smart and out of place in a rural practice. She has another agenda while in Stoney Ridge. Charlie, eager but lacking confidence. He is a hard worker and will gladly lend his carpentry skills. Evie, the traveling nurse, seems like a perfect fit with her family history in the Mennonite culture. She genuinely cares and relates to her patients. She is also head over heels with Charlie. She is only scheduled to be with Doc for a short time.

Annie is still working towards completing her EMT training, but hits a big obstacle that could derail all her hard work.

Other characters are woven into the story, both familiar and new ones.

I hope we can continue to see many more stories in Stoney Ridge. There is a whole town to explore, and I can’t help not feel invested in the stories and all the characters.

I highly recommend this lovely, heartfelt, inspirational romance.

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through Celebrate Lit Bloggers in exchange for my honest thoughts.

About the Author

Suzanne Woods Fisher is a Christy finalist, a Carol and Selah winner, a two-time ECPA Book of the Year finalist, and Publishers Weekly and ECPA bestselling author of more than forty books. Her genres include contemporary and historical romances and Amish fiction. Suzanne and her husband live in a small town in northern California. Most friends act a little nervous around her because they usually wind up in one of her novels. She has four grown children and enough grandchildren to keep her young.

More from Suzanne

The Kitchen Garden by Suzanne Woods Fisher

“Gardening is a way of showing that you believe in tomorrow.” Amish proverb

Whenever I visit my Amish friends, I always make a point of wandering out to their vegetable gardens to see what’s growing. Their gardens, usually not far from the kitchen, are bigger than most people’s backyards. Gardens, for the Amish, are a family affair. Husbands help their wives ready the soil and add the homebrewed fertilizer (ahem, manure), children help their moms plant, weed, and harvest.

Like so many parts of the Plain life, their value of the home garden—for the sake of nutrition, for sustenance, for well-being—is a wonderful example to those of us who weren’t farm-raised. They’ve been living a sustainable life filled with fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables for over four hundred years. The rest of us are just catching on.

One Amish mom told me a story about her daughter, the youngest of seven. “This girl was a born worrier. Whenever she started on her worry loop, I would send her out to weed in the garden. When she came back in, her worries were gone. There’s just something about weeding that helps a soul settle down.”

I could expand that thought a little further. There’s just something about gardening that helps a soul settle down.

So, it’s late on Saturday and I just wrapped up a very long week. I spoke at three book events and finished the first draft (the drafty-draft) of a novel. I can’t stop thinking about the novel. Is it a mess? As tired as I am, tonight I don’t think I’ve got one more word in me—not to speak, not to write. I’m spent! Done. My husband is out for the evening, so I had a few hours alone at home to relax.

What did I do?

I planted in my garden: lettuce and radishes and carrots. As I dug in the spongy soil, I could feel my soul settle. Worry and exhaustion slipped away as I scattered seeds into furrows. Little by little, that wonderful God-given sense of re-creation returned. Tomorrow, I would write again. Time spent in my little garden does that for me. It renews me and gives me a hope for the future.

Or, at the very least, a good salad.

Overnight Blueberry French Toast

On a sunny July morning, we were served this breakfast dish at an Amish friend’s home and my husband couldn’t stop talking about it. You might be shocked at the amount of eggs, but don’t skimp! It’s worth every bite.

12 slices bread cut in 1” cubes

8 oz. cream cheese cut in ¾” cubes

1 ½ cup fresh or frozen blueberries

12 eggs

1/3 cup maple syrup

2 cups milk

Place half the bread cubes in a 9×13 baking dish. Top with cream cheese blueberries and the remaining bread. Beat eggs, syrup and milk and pour evenly over bread.

Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until well done.

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, October 7

The Avid Reader, October 7

Maureen’s Musings, October 8

Life on Chickadee Lane, October 8

Simple Harvest Reads, October 9 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 10

Devoted To Hope, October 10

lakesidelivingsite, October 11

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 12

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 12

Jeanette’s Thoughts, October 13

Mary Hake, October 13

She Lives To Read, October 14

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 15

Empowermoms, October 15

Texas Book-aholic, October 16

Blossom and Blessings, October 16

Vicky Sluiter, October 17

Little Homeschool on the Prairie , October 17

For Him and My Family, October 18

Holly’s Book Corner, October 18

Cover Lover Book Review, October 19

Blogging With Carol, October 20

Southern Gal Loves to Read, October 20

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Suzanne is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/3d270/a-hidden-hope-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Engineered Engagement by Erica Vetsch Book Review & Giveaway

2025-09-02T20:37:00.002-05:00

About the Book

Book: The Engineered Engagement

Author: Erica Vetsch

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: July 8, 2025

A hidden genius, an ambitious shipbuilder, and a daring deception—can she prove her worth without losing her heart?

Eli Kennebrae plans to revolutionize cargo transportation on the Great Lakes. But his grandfather’s meddling obligates him to an arranged engagement. Though Josie Zahn is kindhearted and strikes his interest, Eli needs an engineer for his ship, not a fiancée.

Josie has admired Eli for years, but to him, she’s just “one of the Zahn girls.” Worse, society expects her to marry, not pursue her passion for mathematics and engineering. If she could only get Eli’s attention, she could help him achieve his goals.

Then “Professor Josephson,” a brilliant mathematical mind, provides the analyses to make Eli’s ship design a reality. As Eli finds unexpected kinship in the professor’s work, he remains unaware of the truth—Josie is the genius behind the numbers. When deception and ambition collide, will Eli see Josie for who she truly is before it’s too late?

Click here to get your copy!

My Review:

This is the third book in the “Brides of the West” series from Erica Vetsch. All the books in this series stand alone. You will miss getting reacquainted with characters from the other books if you haven’t read the other two.

The books center around the Kennebrae brothers. Which is unique as most novels are centered around sisters or a group of ladies. Each brother is unique and a man of character. A bit stubborn at times.

Josephine (Josie) Zahn is a genius in math and engineering. Her tutor taught her skills that women of her era wouldn’t do. He found that she was gifted. She desires to seek higher education in both fields. Her father refuses, as women don’t do that, but are expected to get married, raise a family, and keep the house in order.

Eli Kennebra is arranged to get married to Josie. He is a shipbuilder. Both families are wealthy, and their marriage is for business and status. Josie has had affections for Eli since she was a young girl. Eli doesn’t know that. Eli is more interested in building ships and not the entanglement of a woman.

I loved Josie & Eli. This has been my favorite book in this series. The plot had so many twists & turns, hidden identity, faith, and an engagement. I enjoyed the surprises, even though you knew in the end the main characters would fall in love.

I enjoyed the historical aspects of the era in the stories. For a short novel, the author does a fantastic job bringing the story together. I just wish we had more Kennebra brothers!

I highly recommend this lovely, heartfelt, inspirational romance.

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through Celebrate Lit Bloggers in exchange for my honest thoughts.

About the Author

More from Erica

One of the most frequently asked questions an author gets is “Where do your ideas come from?” The truth is…all over! But for me, the main place that story ideas start is in a museum. I see an artifact or object or hear a story as I wander a museum, and I begin to wonder about the people who used the object or survived the events that led to their story being in a museum.

The Engineered Engagement was inspired by a tour of the Great Lakes cargo ship the Meteor. The Meteor is a whaleback and is on display in Superior, WI, just across the harbor from Duluth, MN where the story is set.

I first toured the Meteor when I was eleven years old…awhile ago now. But many years later my husband and I took our kids to tour this amazing piece of engineering. The design, which is characterized by low rounded hulls, decks, and deckhouses looks decidedly odd and different from other ships. This design minimized the wind and water resistance encountered in more traditional hull shapes. The creator/design engineer of the whaleback was a Scotsman named Alexander McDougall who was a ship master and seaman on the Great Lakes.

The first whaleback hit the lakes in 1887, and over the next 11 years, 43 more joined her. One of the largest whalebacks was the steamer named the Frank Rockefeller. This ship was later renamed the SS Meteor. The Meteor hauled iron ore and sand for much of her career, and she is the only whaleback that remains.

As I toured the ship, learning nautical terms and all but feeling the rolling of the deck beneath my feet, I couldn’t help but admire Alexander McDougall for ignoring the critics, the snide remarks, and the jeers that always accompany a design pioneer and creating anyway. Looking for a better way to make something or do a task should be admired. He was tenacious, and I wanted to imbue my characters, Eli Kennebrae and Josie Zahn, with that same tenacity.

The Engineered Engagement involves ship building and hydrodynamics. Now, I know nothing about either of these disciplines, but I did glean some information, hopefully enough to make my characters, Eli and Josie, sound like they do. Ah, the joys of writing fiction! And while Eli and Josie are loaded with brains and tenacity, I also wanted them to have real emotions, to care about each other. One of the joys of writing fiction is getting to live through the eyes/hearts of your characters and feel what they feel. The Engineered Engagement was a joy to write.

If you are interested in Great Lakes shipping, I highly recommend the Duluth Canal Camera, https://www.duluthharborcam.com/p/canal-park-cams.html

And if you are interested in learning more about the SS Meteor, I recommend this site: https://superiorpublicmuseums.org/ss-meteor/

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 20

Worthy2Read, August 20

Melissa’s Bookshelf, August 21

Texas Book-aholic, August 21

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 22

Devoted To Hope, August 22

Artistic Nobody, August 23 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

Simple Harvest Reads, August 23 (Guest Review from Mindy)

For Him and My Family, August 24

Books You Can Feel Good About, August 24

Inkwell Inspirations, August 25

Pens Pages & Pulses, August 25

Stories By Gina, August 26 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, August 26

She Lives To Read, August 27

Inklings and notions, August 27

Bizwings Book Blog, August 28

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 28

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, August 29

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 29

An Author’s Take, August 30

Books Less Travelled, August 30

Book Looks by Lisa, August 31

Blossoms and Blessings, August 31

Holly’s Book Corner, September 1

Pause for Tales, September 1

Devoted Steps, September 2

Life on Chickadee Lane, September 2

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Erica is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54282

The Marriage Masquerade by Erica Vetsch Book Review & Giveaway

2025-08-22T10:49:00.003-05:00

About the Book

Book: The Marriage Masquerade

Author: Erica Vetsch

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: July 8, 2025

A disgraced captain and a runaway heiress—hiding from the past and bound by fate—will their marriage masquerade lead to true love?

Noah Kennebrae, disgraced ship captain, has escaped to a remote lighthouse to avoid his grandfather’s schemes and the ghosts that haunt him. Taking a job under an assumed name, he’s determined to start over—until he meets Annie Fairfax. The feisty housekeeper’s warmth and spirit captivate him, and he falls for her despite his best efforts. But he’s keeping secrets that could destroy her trust…and his chance at redemption.

Desperate to escape the calculating grasp of her father, Anastasia “Annie” Michaels flees home to become the unlikely housekeeper on an isolated island. Working incognito at the lighthouse, she finds solace in her newfound independence and unexpected friendship with Nick. However, as their relationship deepens, Annie’s fear of abandonment resurfaces when she learns the truth Nick has been hiding.

Caught in a marriage masquerade of their own making, Noah and Annie must navigate secrets, lies, and painful pasts in hopes of a future together.

Click here to get your copy!

My Review:

This is the second book in the “Brides of the West” series from Erica Vetsch. All the books in this series stand alone.

Caption Noah Kennebrae is grieving from guilt after a terrible accident. None of it was his fault; he couldn’t help but blame himself for the accident. His other problem is that his controlling grandfather has an arranged marriage set up for him. Noah needs to get away, so he changes his name and accepts a job at a lighthouse on an Island on Lake Superior.

There, he meets Annie, a beautiful young woman. Annie, “Anastasi,” overhears her father arranging an engagement for her with someone she doesn’t even know. She decides to run away and finds herself employed as a housekeeper at a remote lighthouse.

The characters drew me in. I was anxious to see how the romance and story developed. The plot was beautifully written in this page turner. Everything flowed naturally in the story. The best part is that what they are running from is the person in front of them.

I highly recommend this lovely, heartfelt, inspirational romance.

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through Celebrate Lit Bloggers in exchange for my honest thoughts.

About the Author

More from Erica

I love a hidden identity story! And in the case of The Marriage Masquerade, both the hero AND the heroine are hiding their true identities.

The Marriage Masquerade features Noah, who is running from the guilt of a mistake he feels he made that lost both a Great Lakes ship and several lives. Anastasia Michaels is running away from an arranged marriage.

They both flee to a remote lighthouse on the North Shore of Lake Superior, he as an assistant lighthouse keeper and she as a housekeeper and cook.

The lighthouse in The Marriage Masquerade is based directly upon the Split Rock Lighthouse, one of my favorite places to visit along the North Shore. Situated on a cliff high above the lake, Split Rock is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world.

When I first visited this exquisite place, I fell in love. And when I fall in love with an historical site, I need to know as much of the history of the place as I can. Several of the incidents that occur at the fictional lighthouse in the story come directly from the history of Split Rock.

Filtering liquid mercury, polishing the Fresnel lens, hiding dishes in the oven when the inspector comes, and other happenings in The Marriage Masquerade actually happened in the real lives of the lightkeepers at Split Rock.

Noah and Anastasia’s story is a forced proximity romance, with a dash of hidden identity, redemption, and learning to stand on your own two feet. I hope you’ll enjoy their journey from fearful, guilt-ridden characters to healed through love, confident, and ready to embark on a lifelong journey together.

If you would like to learn more about Split Rock and see glorious photos of this picturesque site, check out: https://www.mnhs.org/splitrock

Blog Stops

Pens Pages & Pulses, August 12

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 12

She Lives To Read, August 13

Fiction Book Lover, August 13 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

Devoted Steps, August 14

Melissa’s Bookshelf, August 14

Life on Chickadee Lane, August 15

Texas Book-aholic, August 15

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 16

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 17

Devoted To Hope, August 17

For Him and My Family, August 18

Simple Harvest Reads, August 18 (Guest Review from Mindy)

Books You Can Feel Good About, August 19

Inklingsandnotions, August 19

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 20

Inkwell Inspirations, August 20

Artistic Nobody, August 21 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Blossoms and Blessings, August 21

Little Homeschool on the prairie, August 22

Vicky Sluiter, August 22

An Author’s Take, August 23

Books Less Travelled, August 23

Holly’s Book Corner, August 24

Pause for Tales, August 24

Jeanette’s Thoughts , August 25

Jodie Wolfe, August 25

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Erica is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54276

Temple Mount Soil Necklaces, Pendant of Eternal Faith Review and Giveaway

2025-06-26T15:21:00.000-05:00

When I was in Israel, one of the most surreal moments was going to the Temple Mount. It’s something I will never forget. We nearly didn’t get to go up there due to the unrest the day before. Baruch HaShem (Praise G-d), we were cleared to go at our scheduled time.

Being able to walk where Yeshua walked and where the Temple once stood left me in tears. I will never forget that moment, standing on the Temple Mount and seeing Jerusalem from there.

I was humbled to be able to have a piece of the Temple Mount soil to call my own with the Pendant of Eternal Faith. I received both the gold and silver pendants.

The Temple Mount in Jerusalem is one of the world's most sacred sites for many religions and one of the most disputed piece of land on earth.

In 1999, a construction project was undertaken without the authority of Israel’s Antiquities Law. The soil was carelessly dumped in the Kidron Valley. The dumped soil was later discovered, revealing three thousand years of history from the First and Second Temples. The Temple Mount Sifting Project was created from this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Once the soil has been sifted, the project will be complete. Many artifacts have been found through this effort. You can participate in sifting the soil yourself if you ever visit Israel—you might just uncover a piece of Biblical history!

Pendant of Eternal Faith is available in silver and gold. Each glass capsule contains soil and ash from the destruction of the temples. The chain comes with a lovely lobster clasp that makes it easier to take the necklace on and off. The necklace is solid and doesn't feel cheap for not being gold or sterling silver. Every necklace comes in a velvet bag. Each bottle of Temple Mount soil is numbered and certified by the Temple Mount Sifting Project, the only authorized body verifying its authenticity. It is also signed by leading experts in biblical archaeology to confirm its origin and historical significance.+

The necklaces are beautiful and would make a lovely gift for someone special or just to spoil yourself.

A QR code is included, allowing you to document your participation in this historical preservation effort. A full colored informational booklet is secured in a beautiful black box.

There are other items available with the Temple soil to purchase.

You have an opportunity to win a Pendant of Eternal Faith with a Giveaway.

@templemountsoil #TempleMountSoil #HolyLandArtifacts #PreserveHistory #BiblicalArtifacts

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through FrontGate Blogger.

Capture the Moment by Suzanne Woods Fisher Book Review and Giveaway

2025-06-04T12:00:00.004-05:00

About the Book

Book: Capture the Moment

Author: Suzanne Woods Fisher

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Release date: May 6, 2025

Kate Cunningham is facing the opportunity of a lifetime. As a zoo photographer, she’s spent years photographing animals in carefully controlled environments, but now National Geographic has dangled an irresistible prize: If Kate can snag a unique photo of a legendary bear in Grand Teton National Park, they just might publish it. It’s the kind of challenge Kate has been waiting for, and she’s eager to prove herself in the wild.

With more enthusiasm than experience, Kate soon realizes that capturing an image of this bear isn’t as simple as she hoped. Fortunately, she crosses paths with Grant Cooper, a seasonal park ranger who knows the terrain–and the bears–better than anyone. His tracking skills could be exactly what Kate needs to succeed, and it doesn’t hurt that he’s easy on the eyes. But they’re not the only ones with an interest in the park’s most famous bear. And his motives are far from innocent.

Click here to get your copy!

My Review:

A new series by Suzanne Woods Fisher and the “National Parks Summers series.” This book is set in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming.

Kate Cunningham is a photographer at a zoo on the East Coast. She has always dreamed of capturing animals in their natural habitat. An opportunity arises this season to photograph Bear 399 for National Geographic magazine. Grizzly 399 is a legendary bear in the park. The competition is fierce, and the task is not what she imagined it would be. She feels unprepared for the wild and unaware of the dangers surrounding her as she tries to capture images of wildlife in their natural habitat. Thankfully, she receives assistance from Ranger Grant Cooper, aka “Coop.”

There are many characters you will enjoy in the book. I love the addition of the high school students Coop is teaching; they add a lot of fun and humor to the story. The book has a great plot, and I enjoyed the mystery, suspense, twists, danger, romance, and faith. Additionally, there’s a poacher who’s after Grizzly 399 as a trophy. The story is a page-turner, and I look forward to the next book in the series.

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through Celebrate Lit Bloggers in exchange for my honest thoughts.

About the Author

Suzanne Woods Fisher is a Christy finalist, a Carol and Selah winner, a two-time ECPA Book of the Year finalist, and Publishers Weekly and ECPA bestselling author of more than forty books. Her genres include contemporary and historical romances, Amish romance, and women’s fiction. She and her husband live in a small town in California. Most friends act a little nervous around Suzanne because they usually wind up in one of her novels. She has four grown children and enough grandchildren to keep her young.

More from Suzanne

A Spark that Lit a Story

By Suzanne Woods Fisher

Capture the Moment (Revell—May 6, 2025)

Inspiration can strike in the most unexpected places—like a gift shop in Grand Teton National Park. While browsing, I struck up a conversation with a college student who had never set foot outside Alabama until her mom dropped her off for a summer job in the park. One minute, she was home in the Deep South; the next, she was surrounded by towering peaks and moose crossings. Talk about a culture shock.

That conversation lit a spark that eventually became my National Parks Summers series. I couldn’t stop thinking about the fascinating mix of people who work seasonally in national parks. You’ve got fresh-faced college kids on their first big adventure, retirees finally living their bucket-list dreams, and everyone in between. These parks aren’t just natural wonders—they’re crossroads for people from all walks of life, all chasing something unique.

In Capture the Moment, I wanted to explore what happens when people and landscapes collide. Kate Cunningham, a determined zoo photographer, swaps enclosures for the wilds of Grand Teton, chasing an elusive bear and her own sense of purpose. Along the way, Kate meets Grant Cooper, a rugged park ranger with a knack for tracking and a talent for keeping her on her toes.

National parks are more than just beautiful backdrops—they’re places where people find themselves, lose themselves, and sometimes stumble into something extraordinary.

Maybe even love.

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, May 22

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, May 22

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, May 22

By the Book, May 23

Carla’s Book Crush, May 23

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 24

Devoted To Hope, May 24

Book Looks by Lisa, May 25

Texas Book-aholic, May 25

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 26

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 26

lakesidelivingsite, May 27

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 27

The Avid Reader, May 28

Blossoms and Blessings, May 28

Southern Gal Loves to Read, May 28

Stories By Gina, May 29 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, May 29

Blogging With Carol, May 30

For Him and My Family, May 30

Cover Lover Book Review, May 31

Karen Baney Reviews, May 31

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, June 1

Holly’s Book Corner, June 1

Jeanette’s Thoughts, June 2

Books Less Travelled, June 2

She Lives To Read, June 3

Pause for Tales, June 3

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, June 3

Lily’s Corner, June 4

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, June 4

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Suzanne is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon gift card and an eBook copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54226/

Lizzie’s Little Mouse (The Heart of the Amish Series Book Eight) by Anne Blackburne

2025-05-12T06:53:00.002-05:00

About the Book

Book: Lizzie’s Little Mouse (The Heart of the Amish Series Book Eight)

Author: Anne Blackburne

Genre: Amish/Christian Fiction

Release date: April, 2025

Lizzie Has Dreams That Won’t Be Deterred

Full of faith, hope, and romance, this new series takes you into the Heart of Amish country.

Ever since attending a wedding in Louisiana, Lizzie Miller has been fascinated by French baked goods. With permission of her parents and bishop, she did a two-year internship in a French bakery in New Orleans. When a local Amish bakery became available, she bought it and opened her own French inspired bakery.

But now someone wants her out of business. During her grand opening, a strange man accosts her, then a brick is tossed through her window wrapped in a note telling her to leave. Someone breaks into her apartment above the bakery, and her cat chases the intruder out.

With the help of her friends, Lizzie will get to the bottom of why someone wishes her to fail. And at the same time, she’ll realize that sometimes dreams can be fulfilled with what—or who—was always close at hand, just waiting to be noticed.

Click here to get your copy!

My Review:

Lizzie Miller is a young Amish woman who opened a New Orleans style French Amish Bakery after being in New Orleans to learn to bake French New Orleans style. She dreamed of opening her own pastry store at home.

Her dream has finally come true and she had a lot of support in her community. Her grand opening day was a bit more exiting than she could have imagined. Someone wants her to shut down her bakery or maybe they want something in her store or living area. They are really ttrying to scare her to close her bakery. With the help of her friends, and her best friend’s brother they start doing their own investigation into the vandalism and break-ins at her store.

With leads of different individuals that had their eyes on buying the store front and a revelation into an 100-year-old mystery.

A fun story with mystery, danger, humor, and an unexpected romance. As with all the stories in this series the cats add an extra layer that you will love.

All the characters are well rounded and developed nicely. I love getting a glimpse of previous characters in this series.

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through Celebrate Lit Bloggers in exchange for my honest thoughts.

About the Author

More from Anne

I’m so excited that once again, the amazing bloggers who work with Celebrate Lit are going to do a blog tour for my brand new book in Barbour’s “Heart of the Amish” series, “Lizzie’s Little Mouse”!

Lizzie’s story is available now to readers in print and online wherever fine books are sold, and I feel so blessed to have the help of the Celebrate Lit folks in launching this wonderful story.

If you read either of my previous two books in the series, “Ruth’s Gingersnap Surprise” and “Mary’s Calico Hope”, you’ll remember Elizabeth Miller, their sassy friend with the darling Haflinger pony named Goldie who gave Mary a ride one morning before church services. Elizabeth, or Lizzie, was also mentioned in Ruth’s story as one of the lucky recipients of a kitten from their elderly friend, Lydia’s, cat’s final litter.

Lizzie’s cat is a gray kitty she named Petit Souris, which is French for Little Mouse. Why Little Mouse? Because as a tiny kitten, the darling reminded Lizzie of a mouse!

And why the French name? Well, our heroine is not your typical Amish miss. After attending a wedding in New Orleans as a teen and tasting the amazing baked goods for which the city is renowned, Lizzie began dreaming of opening her very own New Orleans style French bakery – in Ohio’s Amish country!

She loves everything to do with New Orleans, and learned to speak their dialect of French while doing an internship in a bakery there when she was 18. Upon returning home she went to work at the local bakery to learn more about the business, and to save up for her dreams.

As the story opens, we find that Lizzie’s dream has come true! It’s opening day of The Plain Beignet, Lizzie’s bakery in Willow Creek, Ohio. Everyone comes out to wish her well, including friends you’ll recognize from my first two books!

But when something unexpected and frightening happens during the grand opening, it becomes apparent that not everyone is as happy as Lizzie and her friends about her success.

Along with some help from her pals, and her best friend Jane’s handsome big brother, John, Lizzie will get to the bottom of the mystery of who wants to put her out of business, and why!

They discover, among other things, that Lizzie’s bakery was the site of a murder a hundred years before! What could this historic crime have to do with Lizzie’s current problems?

As she, John and their friends search for clues, Lizzie will discover that there’s more baking than her latest batch of beignets!

Could it be romance?

Thank you for taking the time to learn about Lizzie’s story! This book is my third in Barbour Publishing’s series, “The Heart of the Amish”. Look for other great reads in the series from authors Mindy Steele and Lisa Jones Baker.

I’m currently writing my fourth book in the series, which will feature a young woman you’ve met in all my other stories, Jane Bontrager.

Just like her friends, Jane received a kitten from their friend, Lydia; a little brown tabby. Her story, “Plain Jane’s Secret Admirer”, is due out in early winter 2026. .

I hope you’re having as much fun reading about these remarkable young women – and their kitties! – as I’m having writing about them. Thanks for being part of our journey!

As for me and mine, we are all well and enjoying spring in southeast Ohio. In other words, enjoying the sunshine, but carrying a sweater and an umbrella, just in case!

God bless you and yours!

Joyfully,

Anne Blackburne

Blog Stops

The Avid Reader, April 30

lakesidelivingsite, April 30

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 1

Carla’s Book Crush, May 1

Life on Chickadee Lane, May 2

Vicky Sluiter, May 2

Simple Harvest Reads, May 3 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)

Texas Book-aholic, May 4

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 5

Holly’s Book Corner, May 5

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 6

Stories By Gina, May 7 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, May 7

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, May 8

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 9

For Him and My Family, May 10

Jeanette’s Thoughts, May 10

Bizwings Book Blog, May 11

Lily’s Corner, May 12

Little Homeschool on the prairie, May 12

She Lives to Read, May 13

Cover Lover Book Review, May 13

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Anne is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon eGift card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54209

NIV Application Bible Book Review

2025-05-11T06:30:00.032-05:00

There is nothing new under the sun. Like all of the previous versions of this Bible there are many similarities and a few new editions to assist in your studying of the Word. The NIV Application Bible has been around since before I became a Believer. In fact, the NIV Application Bible was the first Bible that I owned. It was a very good Bible for me as a young believer and enabled me to learn much. Most of my scripture memory would be NIV. I still go back to it now as I have notes and highlights that are priceless that I can’t recreate as a new Believer that was yearning for the Word. It takes me back to my first love.

Like many Bibles today it has a well laid out Reading Plans for a Topical Reading Plan, 52 Weeks on the Character of God. You can check off after you have read the assigned portion. Another plan Through the Bible in a Year take takes you from Genisis to Revelation.

NIV Application App At the front of the Bible, there's a QR code to scan with your phone to download the NIV Application App on your phone. You have every featured in the Bible, including all the maps, charts, and so on. You can look up specific words or phrases. You can also create a custom reading plan too.

Dictionary and Concordance that is combined together. The dictionary gives you the definitions of key words. The concordance helps piecing together key word throughout the scriptures.

Full colored maps at the back of the Bible and several maps included within the pages to enhance the places that are being spoken about. I personally have always liked this feature in Bibles. I like that visual imprint on my mind of the events of the narrative being covered.

Each book has a Book Introductions that gives an overview, timeline, key verses, and it highlights certain popular events in that book.

Original Meaning Notes help you understand the meaning of each passage in its context.

Application Notes help you integrate the teachings of the Bible into your daily life.

This is just a few examples of features in the Bible.

My Thoughts:

I don’t mind the NIV translation overall. There are some translation issues that make me cringe and I can agree to disagree with. Even with that being said I have always thought that the NIV is a great Bible. It’s easy to read and it always has enough study notes to teach you to study. I have found that people always struggle actually studying the word. Not that just reading the Bible verse by verse is bad. jThe word is alive and should be dug into deeper. The NIV really gives you the tools to begin your journey to study.

If you are interested in exploring more with this Bible there is a sampler available here.

This would make a nice Bible for someone who is a new Believer and also for a seasoned Believer. To buy this for yourself or someone else you can do so here.

#zondervan #niv #nivab #nivac @nivapplicationbible @frontgatem

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through FrontGate Blogger Network in exchange for my honest thoughts.

Elon Musk by Walter Isaacson Book Review

2025-04-15T10:45:00.000-05:00

The #1 New York Times bestseller from the author of Steve Jobs—this is the astonishingly intimate story of the most fascinating and controversial innovator of our era—a rule-breaking visionary who helped to lead the world into the era of electric vehicles, private space exploration, and artificial intelligence. Oh, and took over Twitter.

My Thoughts:

I have read a few of Walter Isaacson’s biographies before. The author knows how to create emotions for the subject he is writing about.

Currently, there are a lot of strong emotions towards Elon. As for me I see him as a person that is an intriguing that isn’t afraid to shake and rattle things after reading his biography. I’ve never really dug into what made him who he is today. I’ve read articles about him and looked at some of his projects that he has done. It’s amazing how many people a few years ago just loved him and now the tide has turned into a lot of hate. It’s pretty sad, if you just can put aside the current situations and look at his accomplishments it’s no doubt that Elon is a go- getter, genius, and very driven and knows how to accomplish what he sets out to do.

The biography goes through his childhood and being bullied on the playground in South Africa and everything in-between to his rise to the billionaire he is today.

He didn’t set out to get rich he figured he’d be really rich or poor. He didn’t get where he is today in a tradition way with schooling either. He walked his own walk and is a driven individual. He took chances and went with his gut. His goal was to change the direction of humanity with the electric car to reduce emissions and rockets to take humanity into a multi-planetary civilization. Not to mention his other endeavors like X and artificial intelligence.

His intuition involved billions of dollars, and thousands of workers working long and hard hours. His core people that surrounded him are driven individuals who worked crazy hours. Elon worked alongside them and isn’t afraid to get his hands dirty if needed. His rash personality isn’t for the faint of heart. I gather that Elon's goal isn’t to make relationships but neither are his core people If he made mistakes, he has the ability to adapt and change strategy quickly. From what I gleaned was that his intuitions are usually spot on.

Elon Musk whether you like him or not is an intriguing man from his work to his personal life. I enjoyed the book and it gave me an insight into the man that I didn’t know.

Right now you can get 40% off good through today using the code MUSK40 at ElonMuskTheBook.com You can also purchase the book here .

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through FrontGate Blogger Network in exchange for my honest thoughts. @frontgatem

@walterisaacson #walterisaacson #elonmuskbook

The Good for Nothing Puddle! by Jana Jackson Book Review

2025-04-04T13:51:00.000-05:00

The Good for Nothing Puddle, written by Jana Jackson is written about sadness and grief and the loss of losing something you love. You ask God for help and you think He isn’t listening to us. We expect the answer to come in a way that we want not God’s ways.

The girl is extremely sad. Her sadness is shown as a big puddle that she can’t get rid of. She prays that God will take her sadness away. While in her puddle she meets a dirty puppy needing help. Next, a farmer who has been out in the sun too long, and then an artist who needs to create her masterpiece. She sees that she can help with those problems thanks to her puddle (experiences). Slowly she learns that the loss has made her grow and something good has come out of it.

The illustrations aren’t overwhelming and I think that brings out the story. The illustrations start out with little color and as she gets pass the sadness it blossoms into a beautiful full color illustration.

This is a book for a child struggling with sadness and grief. The illustrations can be used in many different types of loss as you see fit to expand upon with the simple words and illustrations.

You can purchase the book here.

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through FrontGate Blogger Network in exchange for my honest thoughts. @frontgatem

#childrensbook #northpoint #waumbaland #upstreet #grief #death #loss #sadness #emotions #goodfornothingpuddle #zonderkidz #counseling #kidsbook @frontgatem @zonderkidz @janamjackson @abby.jartos @northpointupstreet @northpointwaumbaland @waumbaland

Jake Roger’s Planet by Philip Wilder Review and Giveaway

2025-03-20T10:25:00.001-05:00

About the Book

Book: Jake Rogers’ Planet

Author: Philip Wilder

Genre: Christian YA Science Fiction

Release date: February, 2025

Jake is about to embark on a perilous adventure through an alien wilderness filled with hidden wonders and hazards.

While backpacking with his father, Jake Rogers discovers a mysterious portal and accidentally plunges headfirst into an alien world. Stranded on this bizarre planet, he must evade predators, adapt to the strange elements, and navigate the ever-changing landscape to return home. However, as Jake stumbles upon technologically advanced alien ruins, a chilling question arises: Are the aliens still alive?

Even on this terrifying journey, God reminds Jake of the profound verse: “Do not fear, for I am with you.”

Click here to get your copy!

My Review:

Homeschooling my kids we read a lot of great books. My son liked to read space sci-fi adventures. It was a hard genre to find good Christian fantasy sci fi adventures. Jake Roger’s Planet I thought was a creative and fascinating read. I think my son would have enjoyed this book.

The book is about faith of a teen boy trying to find who he is in the world and not who his father wants him to be. His father wants him to like his brothers. Jake wants to find his own way. There are some tensions in their relationship.

Jake and his dad are on a hike when Jake finds himself pulled into a portal on an alien planet. He is scared and alone and yet he hears God speaking to him. Jake was never one to be adventurous or the outdoor type of person. He finds himself needing to find food and shelter. Then he has to defend himself from animals. Another tread that is weaved throughout is learning to trust God, sacrifice, and surrendering to God’s will throughout the book. This has a coming to age story. He also finds out about friendship and loyalty.

The imagination of this book is creative and fun. The author does a fantastic job describing the aliens and it is extremely creative. I just loved the uniqueness that the author took. A lot of action throughout the book. It was a fast read for me and the pace was enough to keep its intended audience’s attention after the slow build up of the first chapter.

There are illustrations throughout the book. A really good discussion questions at the end of the book.

I’ve read some great books this year but honestly this one was far my favorite. I guess I’m just a kid at heart!

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through Celebrate Lit Bloggers in exchange for my honest thoughts.

About the Author

Philip Wilder has been writing since the age of seven. He’s authored two nonfiction books, is a ACFW Genesis Contest finalist, and is currently a Realm Makers Aurora Contest double finalist. He’s spent two years as an undercover missionary in the Middle East, gone sky-diving, and traveled to 35 countries. Philip works with the Great Commission Alliance to train and equip believers around the world. He’s passionate about using fiction to inspire believers to live adventurous lives of faith.

More from Philip

Fear is a dangerous enemy.

At the age of 22, I felt God calling me to become a missionary in the Middle East—not for a week or a month, but a year (that eventually became two). Having never traveled outside the US or moved away from my home city of Denver, I was overwhelmed by fear. I’d be moving to a foreign land where I didn’t know a single person and doing work that wasn’t widely accepted there. I spent many sleepless nights wrestling with God’s gentle prompting.

Fear is inevitable in a Christian’s walk, but its power diminishes as we learn to lean into God and trust Him with the unknown. No matter where a believer is on their faith journey, God always guides us to step outside our comfort zones.

The inspiration for this novel came in 2016 while I was living in the Middle East. While watching The Martian, I realized that even if I were stranded on Mars, millions of miles from humanity, God would still call me to trust Him and not fear. That realization was life-changing: no matter what we face, God assures us nothing is worth fearing if we walk in joyful obedience.

Moving to the Middle East was terrifying and far from easy, but God was always present when I needed Him. In following God to take this step, I realized another beautiful truth: God knows what we need, love, and desire more than we do.

My firm belief is that God has wired each of us to love and enjoy different things because He wants to lead us down a unique path, where He desires to see the deepest parts of our hearts come alive. Walking this path is hard and full of fear. It requires letting go of dreams and trusting God will fulfill the right desires at the right time.

This is the journey Jake faces in Jake Rogers’ Planet. The fears he wrestles with are the same ones I had to navigate to declutter my mind and follow God.

I hope this book will help believers overcome their own fears and follow God. My prayer is that everyone reading this novel will be inspired by Jake’s story to take wild steps of faith to follow God on the wondrous adventure he has in store for them.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 7

Simple Harvest Reads, March 8 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, March 9

Tell Tale Book Reviews, March 10 (Author Interview)

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, March 11

Blossoms and Blessings, March 12 (Author Interview)

The Lofty Pages, March 13

Artistic Nobody, March 14 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 15

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 16 (Spotlight)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 16

Stories By Gina, March 17 (Author Interview)

cecereadsandsings, March 17

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 18

Guild Master, March 19 (Author Interview)

Little Homeschool on the Prairie , March 20

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Philip is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card, plus a signed hardcover copy of the book, a bookmark, and a vinyl sticker!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54168

I Am Living Proof Movie Review

2025-03-07T13:10:00.002-06:00

Buy tickets today to see I Am Living Proof in theaters starting March 9^th. Tickets can be purchased here.

Synopsis: I Am Living Proof is a compelling and intimate look into the lives of three individuals who face an extraordinary life-altering event. Bri, once a promising student, finds her academic dreams derailed by an illness that’s deteriorating her body. For seven years, she’s caught in a cycle of failed medical treatments and excruciating pain, pushing her toward assisted suicide.

Steve’s life spirals out of control after a workplace accident leaves him dependent on opioids. Jobless and desperate, he attempts to end it all with an overdose.

Mary, a mother of five, faces debilitating pain from a spinal injury that leaves her unable to care for her children—until a vivid dream sparks an unexpected turning point.

My Thoughts:

In my early days as a believer my husband and I were blessed to have formed some close friendships with a couple missionaries from other countries. One thing that always struck my husband and I was it felt like there was a difference with faith and healing in other parts of the world. They talked about healing when they went back home and traveled to other locations. We asked, “why does it seem like there are more healings abroad and not in the US?” The answer was, “they only have Jesus and no access to doctors or medicines usually.” “Being sick usually means you can’t put food on the table and it affects so many areas of their lives. There faith is strong and they know that Jesus can heal them and they have nothing else to cling to for help.”.

Jesus has healed me physically and spiritually in many ways. I’m also a bit of a cynic with healing ministries. I just have witnessed some bad situations. So, when I watched I Am Living Proof I went in with an open mind because I know He can heal them.

The movie is set up as a documentary around three individual’s lives. They share their stories and how they were before an event that left them with debilitating pain. They go into very emotional moments of the severity of what was physically and mentally going on with them. They felt they have nowhere to turn and in total despair. However, that changed for them.

The documentary throughout has conversations with family, neighbors, friends, doctors, theologians, and others. The movement behind the movie is Mario Murillo and he talks about the events of the healings of the people in the crowd.

In the summer of 2022, thousands gathered under a revival tent in Colorado Springs as churches across the community joined forces to host evangelist Mario Murillo. These compelling accounts of transformation each uniquely powerful.

The film is well made and does a good job documented evidence of people being healed by Jesus. Am I still a cynic-possibly. However, I felt very compelled with this movie and that it wasn’t a bunch of fluff. I felt that each individual in this movie had their lives changed spiritually and physically. You can learn more at the website: https://www.iamlivingproofthemovie.com/

#IAmLivingProofMIN @iamlivingproofthemovie #MomentumInfluencerNetwork @iamlivingproofthemovie @IAmLivingProof_

Disclosure: Many thanks to I Am Living Proof the Movie for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

His Grace’s Governess by Jackie Killelea Book Review and Giveaway

2025-03-03T08:12:00.002-06:00

About the Book

Book: His Grace’s Governess

Author: Jackie Killelea

Genre: Christian Historic Romance

Release date: February 4, 2025

A governess with a secret. A duke with a broken heart. Can love heal their wounds?

Miss Eleanor Clairbridge, at five and twenty, has resigned herself to a life without love. With her family’s London townhouse threatened by dwindling finances, she accepts employment as a governess to help support her widowed mother and preserve her cherished childhood home. When Eleanor arrives at Ivy Grange Estate, the last thing she expects to find is a spark of attraction between her and her new employer. Determined not to risk her position, she resolves to keeps her distance. There is more than one reason a romance between them can never be.

Edmund Colhampton, the Duke of Albemarle, has no intention of finding love. Since losing his family in a tragic carriage accident five years ago, he has devoted himself to protecting his young niece, the only family he has left. But when his niece’s enchanting governess arrives at the estate, Edmund finds himself reconsidering his vow never to love again. Why then, as he seeks to know her more, does she seem determined to avoid him at all costs?

As Eleanor fulfills her role as governess, her past begins to catch up with her, threatening to unravel the secrets she holds dear. Both Eleanor and Edmund must confront their deepest fears and decide whether to succumb to the darkness within or brave the path to healing and love.

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts:

I like to step out of my genre at times. This was one of those books that it was a new author and in the Regency era that I don’t read books in. All the high and mighty attitudes and the class order just makes my skin crawl. Wow, His Grace’s Governess didn’t disappoint. The story was written well and was heartfelt. It was a love story that faith and prayer was strong in the main characters. They had some hardships that they needed to let go of fear and remorse. I loved the story and characters so much that I will order the next book in the series.

Eleanor loss her father many years ago. What her mother and her didn’t know was that he left a lot of mounting bills. Eleanor wants nothing more than to keep her sick mother and the few devout helpers in the home. The house hasn’t seen good days in a long time. They have sold household items. Despite all of this Eleanor needs a job and soon. She has someone who wants to make her his wife. He is much older and not a good man.

Eleanor finds a job working as a governess in Duke Edmund’s home caring for his niece Rosie. Rosie was adorable and just melted my heart.

Edmund and Eleanor are still grieving and trying to deal with different issues. They both find themselves thinking about one another often. Sounds a bit corny when I write it but the author did a great job taking you into the Regency era and developing all the characters.

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through Celebrate Lit Bloggers in exchange for my honest thoughts.

About the Author

Jackie Killelea is a born and raised small-town girl from Connecticut with a degree in English and Creative Writing. She started off her writing journey with poetry, soon shifting into novels and becoming hooked. On days when she’s not busy with her nose in a book, she can be found typing away with a cup of tea at her side.

More from Jackie

In His Grace’s Governess, much trouble befalls Edmund and Eleanor as they attempt to sort out their close proximity to and burgeoning feelings for one another, but there is one scene in particular that I enjoyed researching.

In one scene of the novel, Mr. Roskilly(the gardener at Ivy Grange Estate) worries at Eleanor plucking the plant Rabelera–otherwise known as Greater Stitchwort–from the ground. He fears that danger will befall Eleanor if she takes it from the garden and Eleanor, misunderstanding him, even believes at one point that Mr. Roskilly might be threatening her. But, why is Mr. Roskilly so worried? Is he really so concerned that Edmund’s hackles will be raised when he sees that Eleanor has plucked a few mere flowers from the garden–and with his niece, no less?

Indeed, that is not where his concern lies, for if you read the passage closely, you’ll see that Mr. Roskilly is Cornish. This is an important factor. When doing my research for the novel, I found that, in Cornwall, it is believed that Greater Stitchwort is the property of the pixies. It is believed that to pick it is to take it from them and to anger them, and if you anger them then there is all the chance that they may well retaliate for you having stolen what was theirs. Truly, they may even enchant you, according to legend. Having read this and being sufficiently intrigued, the scene was born! I do hope you get as much enjoyment out of it as I do.

Here is an excerpt from it so you know what I’m referring to:

“Hope yer walk’s went well. ’Tis a fine day fer one.” He grinned, revealing a mouth full of crooked teeth. His Cornish accent was thick, with a friendly tone to his voice.

Eleanor returned his smile and nodded. “It certainly is. What better way to spend a morning than to enjoy the sun in these beautiful gardens? They’re the finest I’ve ever seen.”

She could’ve sworn there was a hint of a blush on the man’s tawny face. “I than’ ye, miss. We do our righ’ bes’, and keepin’ i’ as i’ is makes ’is Grace ’appy. Ever since…” The man trailed off, a growing look of concern on his face.

What had he been about to say? Something about the duke or his family?

“Greater Stitchwort.” He spoke with a grave edge to his words, looking intently at the flower in Rose’s hand.

Eleanor’s gaze flitted from the man to the flower, her brows furrowing. “Is something wrong, sir?”

The man tilted his head, flicking his eyes to the side in a plea for a private conversation.

I will not say whether this decision to pick the plant affected Eleanor later on in the story or not, but I’ll leave you with this: Do consider all of the plants you touch before you decide to place your hand upon them and pull them from the ground.

Happy reading!

Jackie Killelea

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 18

Holly’s Book Corner, February 19

Texas Book-aholic, February 19

Life on Chickadee Lane, February 20

Pens Pages & Pulses, February 20

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 21

Stories By Gina, February 22 (Author Interview)

Devoted To Hope, February 22

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 23

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 24

Connie’s History Classroom, February 25

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, February 25

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, February 26

Simple Harvest Reads, February 27 (Guest Review from Donna)

For Him and My Family, February 28

Pause for Tales, February 28

Book Looks by Lisa, March 1

Blossoms and Blessings, March 2

Cover Lover Book Review, March 3

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, March 3

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Jackie is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54157/

No Address Movie Review

2025-02-27T06:30:00.009-06:00

Did you know that there are 1.2 million adults and 1.5 million children experiencing homelessness nationwide today.

Inspired by true events, NO ADDRESS follows the journey of Lauren, a young woman who lost her mom at a young age and ended up in foster care. The day she graduated the foster mom kicked her out into the streets since she no longer would get paid to have her stay with her. After calling friends to take her in she finds herself alone with two trash bags of basic belongings on the streets. She quickly finds herself getting robbed and only has the clothes on her back. She ends up meeting a runaway Jimmy who left home because of his abusive stepfather. Jimmy’s mom hasn’t given up and still searches for her son. Jimmy introduces Lauren to his family on the streets. Each one has different reasons for being on the streets. They all look out for one another.

The ragtag family find themselves being harassed by Robert, a desperate real estate developer who is trying to land a building project. The problem is that a homeless encampment has taken over the property. After going through the lawful way to see if he can get them removed, he finds himself hiring thugs to get them out. Robert has a drinking and gambling problem and his about to lose everything. After he is fired his family is left with nowhere to go.

I thought the movie was heartfelt and it showed a variety of reasons of being homelessness. Some because of drugs, mental illness, runaways, vets, and many other examples. It looks at the reality of trying to fend to get food, shelter, and needing medical care. The movie was honest and to the point.

It includes William "Billy" Baldwin, Xander Berkeley, Beverly D'Angelo, Lucas Jade Zumann, Isabella Ferreira, Patricia Velasquez, Kristanna Loken, singer Ashanti, and television personality Ty Pennington.

Robert Craig Films is deeply concerned about to addressing the urgent issue of homelessness and has pledged that 50% of the net profits from our five No Address productions will be donated to a diverse range of organizations and churches nationwide.

Tickets are available to see No Address in theaters starting February 28^th. You can buy your tickets here.

To learn more you can visit https://www.noaddressmovie.com/

Many thanks to Robert Craig Films for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

Facebook & Instagram: @noaddressmovie

@BreakTheNoAddressCycle @NoAddressMovie @NoAddressMovie @MomentumInfluencerNetwork