Thirsty For More ~ Review

ABOUT THE BOOK:

When it comes to our connection with God, we dread "dry seasons," when we feel far from our life-sustaining Creator and redeemer. We want to dwell in lush valleys, not wander in trackless deserts. And yet, during the first three centuries of the church, many men and women purposefully moved into deserts to seek God. They understood something that we have missed: a desert is not a place of vast nothingness, but a place where we can truly experience God's provision, restoration, and intimacy.

Through Scripture and personal stories of her own times of waiting and struggle, Allison Allen offers a fresh perspective for women who dare to believe that God is doing something of eternal value in their dry seasons. She shows how God can use these times in our lives to reveal himself to us, to give us rest, to get our attention, to show us our strength, to experience his blessings, and more. Any woman who has been feeling spiritually sapped will welcome this refreshing message of hope.

MY THOUGHTS:

WOW! Can I just say this book is absolutely DIVINE TIMING!!! Years ago, I went through the desert with the Lord. In sharing about those times w/others, whether counseling or just sharing my story w/friends, one thing I always said was, I would give up any and everything to go through that time. Of course I would say that! Why? Because I was on the other side of the desert!! Going through the desert as Allison so eloquently tells us is very difficult and not one we would typically "choose". 

Allison Allen shares the time in the desert so beautifully. From those in history who "sought it out" to modern day people like us who resist it and sometimes flat out go kicking and screaming. Regardless of how we go through the desert when we do get to the other side (and we do get there) we are all humbled, thankful, grateful, and so many many more words like that! 

Whether you are going through your own desert or in a dry spell I would encourage you to read this and even if your not, please know that someday... you will. We all do. 

Heart of a Bookworm gives Thirst For More 5 ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥'s

Thank you Revell for allowing me this complimentary book in exchange for my honest review!

Hope Your Heart Needs

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Understanding more of God's character and how he loves us changed bestselling author Holley Gerth's life in beautiful, powerful ways. She realized that she didn't have to settle for "I'm fine" when there was someone whispering to her in every moment, "You're mine." The hope, joy, peace, and purpose she longed for were already there, in the heart of God.

Now in 52 devotional readings, Holley shares with women the answer to the restlessness they feel in their hearts that keeps them hurrying, striving, pushing. She shows them that "the God who scattered stars like diamonds across the velvet of the universe, the keeper of every sparrow, the maker of us all, is inviting us to draw closer to him. He is the place where our hearts can go on the hard days and the happy ones, in the highs and lows, when we are sad or frustrated or downright giddy. He is what we've been searching for all along."

MY THOUGHTS:

Hope your heart needs is the first book I've read from Holley Gerth, but let me tell you... I will be on the hunt to read her others! She is a beautiful storyteller, and one who has such a beautiful heart for the Lord! I mean, how could she write such an amazing, beautiful book like this without having one!!?? 

There are 52 devotions which can be read however you would like... I found myself reading more than one and at a time because I just couldn't stop but then the next time I would just force myself to read just one a truly just savor and think on the bible verse and story she had written. At times Gods loves just overwhelms you as does HIS goodness !! It is a great way to start your day or if you choose to read a story each week, then by all means, start your week out reading this!!

Heart of a Bookworm gives Hope Your Heart Needs a 5 ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥'s 

Thank you Revell for providing this book free in exchange for my honest review!!!

Second Chance Dogs ~ Review

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Everyone loves an underdog, and nothing gives us warmer feelings than seeing someone get a second chance in life. A problem pup who flourishes under the right kind of training. The struggling veteran who finds unconditional love wiggling around at the end of a leash. The lonely child who finds comfort in the steady breathing of the warm, furry friend at her side. Each of us needs to be rescued from something--and each of us has the capacity to rescue someone, or something, else.

This collection of more than thirty contemporary, true, feel-good stories spotlights the beauty of being rescued--dogs rescued by people, people rescued by dogs, and even dogs who rescue other animals. It's the perfect companion--well, besides the four-legged, tail-wagging kind--for your morning cup of coffee or an evening curled up on the couch. Contributors include Susy Flory, Dusty Rainbolt, Lauraine Snelling, Melody Carlson, Wanda Dyson, Suzanne Woods Fisher, and many more.

MY THOUGHTS:

Oh what a delight this book is!! When I saw this on my review options I jumped at the chance! I have had rescue dogs the past, as have soooo many of my friends, and every single one of us could tell you a story of how those pups have changes or should I say "rescued" us in one way or another!! 

These stories will make you laugh, and many will make you cry! But no matter what, you will love reading them! Having read some of the authors fiction books and knowing of them, it was so cool being able to read something about their personal life and these stories about their dogs was that much more special! 

Heart of a Bookworm gives it 5 ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥'s!!! I think you too will love Second Chance Dogs! 

Thank you Revell for providing this book in exchange for my honest review!

When Your Kid is Hurting ~ Review

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Children today live in an unpredictable, disruptive, and often violent world. Many of them live in two different homes with different sets of expectations. They face bullying at school and online. They hear news of school shootings, and racially or religiously motivated violence. They may have lost a friend or a loved one. 

As parents, the impulse to protect our children is strong, but that very protection can end up handicapping them for life. Rather than seek to save them from the hard things, parents must teach their kids how to cope with and rise above their problems. In one of his most important books to date, internationally known psychologist and bestselling author Dr. Kevin Leman shows parents how to

- be good listeners 
- tell the truth, even when it's difficult
- find balance between being protective and being overprotective
- approach hurt and injustice as a learning experience rather than fostering a victim mentality
- and much more

Whether your child is dealing with a difficult family situation, bullies, the loss of friends, the death of a loved one, discrimination, abuse, a teen pregnancy, or even just trying to make sense of what they see in the news, this compassionate and practical book will help parents equip them to process, learn from, and rise above their situation.

MY THOUGHTS:

I have to say I am quite surprised at this book. I have ALWAYS loved Dr. Lehman's books and the advice he has given. He is a Christian author. So, when looking at my review options, I was so excited to read this one and to be able to share the info. with my grand babies, and other young children that I'm in contact with, should any of the conversations arise. This book, Helping Your Child through the Tough Days, is not written as a "christian book". It is written to the secular audience. I get it, that allows for more books to be sold, but I expected more from Dr. Lehman. 

There is good advice and great conversations ideas on various topics. I know when my kids were little, school shootings was NEVER anything I had to discuss, nor was social media, and all that comes with that, but that didn't mean I wasn't a very present parent. In the end I do think that that is what Dr. Lehman would say is what is most important.... being there for your kids. 

For me, I know the most important thing I could do for my kids is .... Listening to them. Talking to them. Letting them know that no matter what the situation is, I am there for them and together with God, we can get through anything together!

Heart of a Bookworm gives "When your Kid is Hurting" 3 ♥ ♥ ♥'s

Driver Confessional~ Review

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Ride share driver Antonio cruises the streets of Washington, D.C. looking for his next fare. 

He has an unusual gift for relaxing his customers and stimulating their desire to reveal more than they planned. By the completion of their ride, many feel so comfortable that they confess their sins great and small. Antonio’s faith guides his discussions and points him in new directions. Suddenly, his peaceful world is turned upside down by a mysterious business woman. As she heads to a midnight rendezvous, she confesses more than Antonio can handle. Her story sends him into a world of espionage, international terrorism and danger.

Learn more and purchase a copy.

My Thoughts:

Driver Confessional is one of those books that really ended up surprising me!! It's a thriller for sure, but mixed with a whole lot of faith!! That "faith" is one of the main reasons I why I LOVED reading it!! Antonio feels strongly and spiritually that his job (a part-time Buber driver) is one that would allow him to pray for & over his "passengers". He also is a wonderful family man and the moments we get to see Antonio with his family are just precious!!

The story takes a thrilling turn when Antonio finds a briefcase left behind by a female passenger who had shared with him some concerns & possible dangers about her company. After searching for info. to try and  find  her and return the briefcase, he goes to her house only to find her dead.The twists, turns, and suspense all begin as Antonio and his brother Rocco (who happens to be a cop), both begin to investigate her death. 

I really enjoyed this book and have to say I hadn't ever really read a book quite like this one.... For one, the book dealt with political issues pretty heavily, and while I did read it for review purposes, I would say that even if I hadn't had to "review" the book I would have still continued reading instead of saying this one just doesn't "fit" in my TBR books!

Heart of a Bookworm gives "Driver Confessional" 4 ♥ ♥♥ ♥'s I'm looking forward to Book 2 Stock Car Inferno!!

The NKJV Woman's Study Bible - Review

My Thoughts:

Oh em geeee! This is an unbelievable Study Bible! Not only is it soooo pretty but it is soooo FULL of everything you want in a study bible! And for me, one of the best parts is that they give you plenty of room for taking notes!!  I sooo appreciate many of their features.... maps, timelines, index, and my personal 2 favorites are  -- the concordance and the footnotes!! I can remember times when I would have 3 to 4 different books around me when studying, but this study bible has it all!! 

Thank you Thomas Nelson for seriously thinking of everything in this study Bible! Thank you Litfuse for allowing me this complimentary issue in exchange for my honest review! 

Heart of a Bookworm gives The NKJV Woman's Study Bible a definite 5 ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥'s

About the Bible:

The NKJV Woman’s Study Bible (Thomas Nelson, March 2017)

The Woman’s Study Biblepoignantly reveals the Word of God to women, inviting them to receive God’s truth for balance, hope, and transformation. 

Special features designed to speak to a woman’s heart appear throughout the Bible text, revealing Scripture-based insights about how godly womanhood grows from a woman’s identity as a Christ-follower and a child of the Kingdom.

Now with a beautiful full-color redesign, The Woman’s Study Bible reflects the contributions of over 80 women from a wide variety of ethnic, denominational, educational, and occupational backgrounds. Since the publication of the first edition of The Woman’s Study Bible under the editorial guidance of Dorothy Kelley Patterson and Rhonda Harrington Kelley, this landmark study Bible has sold over 1.5 million copies.

Features Include:

—Beautiful full-color design throughout
—Detailed biographical portraits of over 100 biblical women
—Thousands of extensive verse-by-verse study notes
—Over 300 in-text topical articles on relevant issues
—Insightful essays by women who are recognized experts in the fields of theology, biblical studies, archaeology, and philosophy
—Book introductions and outlines
—Hundreds of full-color in-text maps, charts, timelines, and family trees
—Quotes from godly women throughout history
—Set of full-page maps of the biblical world
—Topical index
—Concordance

Learn more and purchase a copy.

Moving Target by Lynette Eason ~ Review

About the book:


When Maddy McKay and Quinn Holcombe don't show up for Quinn's surprise birthday party, his friends know that something is very wrong. Their search turns up little beyond evidence that Quinn and Maddy just decided to take off for a long overdue vacation. But it soon becomes apparent that they did not leave of their own accord.

Maddy awakens in a cement room with no idea where she is. But it's not long before she realizes she's in the clutches of a madman exacting revenge by hunting. His prey of choice? Humans. Now Maddy and Quinn must run for their lives, hoping to find their killer before the next game begins. Because if they don't win this game, they die.

Fast, furious, and flirty, Lynette Eason's relentless suspense barely gives her readers time to catch their breath in this third thrilling installment of the Elite Guardians series.

MY THOUGHTS:

Holy Smokes!! This series just keeps getting better and better!! This book, Moving Target, in my opinion, is the best book so far!!! From the very first page until the VERY last page it kept me on the edge of my seat!! I absolutely LOVE Maggie and Quinn together!!! If the suspense of being hunted by serial killer doesn't keep you on edge, then seeing where their relationship goes probably will! 

Even though this book is in a series, you can totally read this one alone! However, I think you will LOVE all the books in this series and recommend all of them!! 

Heart of a Bookworm gives "Moving Target" by Lynette Eason hands down 5 ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥'s

Exciting New Inspirational Nursery Rhymes Series!!!

My Thoughts:

There aren't many things that are better than curling up in a chair with a little one on your lap and reading books is there!? Whether it's just some quiet time in the morning, an afternoon nap time, or right after a warm tub and heading off to sleep, I LOVE to read books to my grand babies! Just as I did for my kids when they were little. To make that time even more special, being able to share stories with godly values and inspirational lessons is the BEST!! Kids just soak up those times and lessons too!

I am so excited for theses new books and I know you all will LOVE them!! What a great gift these would be for a daycare or your church nursery and a MUST for your next baby shower!! 

ABOUT THE BOOKS:

Bringing Traditional Values Back into the Modern World

​Rudeness, road rage, bullying, angry airplane passengers, insults to people of differing views – where have our nation’s values disappeared? And whatever happened to good old fashioned manners? How do we change things?

Did you know that 95% of our behavioral patterns are established by age 6? To make changes, we must teach our children, and brain science tells us that the best time to teach children is from birth to age seven.  But here’s a great new fun way to reach out to kids --  a series of fun board books featuring easy-to-remember rhymes for little ones  featuring Max and his little sister Molly and other adorable animal characters teaching those important lessons. Written by Todd and Jackie Courtney to create a positive belief system and positive self-image, they even call the books “self-help books for toddlers!” 

Max Gives Thanks to God

Get Inspired with Max

Be Responsible Like Max

Giving Thanks with Max
Inspirational Nursery Rhymes Series with first four titles releases February 1, 2017 from Clovercroft Publishing. $8.99
https://www.inspirationalnurseryrhymes.com - 

free ebook available at the site, as well as interiors of other titles

Thank you Joni Baker for sharing these books with Heart of a Bookworm and my readers!

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year ~ A countdown to Christmas

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Celebrate 31 days of a Christ-filled Christmas season.

For Christians worldwide, the month of December is filled with joy and wonder as we anticipate the celebration of Christ’s birth. There is no other time of the year that can compare to the Christmas season for both the young and young at heart.

From December to New Year’s Eve, reawaken the wonder, joy, and magic that is Christmas with daily scripture and inspirational readings of stories behind popular Christmas traditions, carols and movies. Enjoy a wealth of fun activities to help make the most of the season, including heartwarming holiday recipes and homemade gift ideas.

With this soon-to-be-cherished holiday devotional, best-selling author Ace Collins will capture your imagination and help to make each day of December more memorable and meaningful to you, and those you love, by shining a light on the real spirit of the season.

MY THOUGHTS:

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year by Ace Collins is such an awesome read and one that I wish everyone could read during this time of year! We get so busy during the Holiday season and this devotional shares not only exceptional devotions, but also great gift ideas and recipes too!!! It allows us to reflect on the true reason of Christmas!

It would be such a wonderful gift for a teacher, preacher, or just about anyone for that matter!!! There are sooo many wonderful recipes and some that you could prepare yourself as gifts such as the Gingerbread Hot Chocolate! The cookie recipes sound delicious too! I love the Christmas traditions he shares as well! Honestly, this book would be perfect to sit down in the evening as a family and read each devotional together! It could start a new tradition within your own family! 

Heart of a Bookworm gives it 5 ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥'s

Thank you Litfuse for providing this book in exchange for my honest review!

Trust My Heart ~ Review

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Grant McAllister arrives in Murphy, North Carolina, with one aim: to sell his inherited property and leave as quickly as possible. The big-city lawyer has no interest in his late, estranged grandparents or the dilapidated mansion he just acquired. After his high-profile divorce, he should be avoiding perky reporters, too. But Jami Carlisle is honest, funny, and undeniably appealing.

After breaking up with her safe-but-smothering boyfriend, Jami is determined to ace her first big assignment. A story about the McAllister estate is too intriguing to ignore—much like its handsome, commitment-phobic heir. Thanks to her digging, the pieces of Grant’s fraught family history are gradually fitting into place, but also upending all his old beliefs.

The two draw closer as they share their dreams, until misread signals and misunderstandings begin to test their trust. But in the unspoiled beauty of the Smoky Mountains, there’s healing and forgiveness to be found. And for Grant, this unplanned detour may be just what’s needed to finally guide him home…

MY THOUGHTS:

Trust My Heart is such a sweet and oh so awesome romance novel!! I LOVE everything about this book... seeing people overcome obstacles and learning how true forgiveness blesses you in ways you never could have imagined is just a small example of why I fell in love with this story! Grant and Jami will have you cheering them on right from the start and if you're like me you will also fall in love with all the others as well!

I am so glad to have found yet another wonderful author to read! Thank you LitFuse for allowing me the opportunity to review this book!

Heart of a Bookworm gives Trust My Heart 5 ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥'s

The Things We Knew ~ Review

ABOUT THE BOOK:

The Things We Knew (Thomas Nelson, July 2016)

A tragedy from the past resurfaces in this tale of family secrets and reignited love.

After her mother’s death twelve years ago, Lynette Carlisle watched her close-knit family unravel. One by one, her four older siblings left their Nantucket home and never returned. All seem to harbor animosity toward their father, silently blaming him for their mother’s death. Nobody will talk about that dreadful day, and Lynette can’t remember a bit of it.

But when next-door neighbor Nicholas Cooper returns to Nantucket, he brings the past with him. Once her brother’s best friend and Lynette’s first crush, Nick seems to hiding things from her. Lynette wonders what he knows about the day her mother died and hopes he might help her remember the things she can’t.

But Nick has no intention of telling Lynette the truth. Besides the damage it might cause his own family, he doesn’t want to risk harming the fragile friendship between him and the woman he once thought of as a kid sister.

As their father’s failing health and financial concerns bring the Carlisle siblings home, secrets begin to surface—secrets that will either restore their shattered relationships or separate the siblings forever. But pulling up anchor on the past propels them into the perfect storm, powerful enough to make them question all they ever believed in.

MY THOUGHTS:

Wow.... What a story! The Things We Knew had me turning pages late into the night because I JUST HAD to see how this book would end! Lynette is the youngest of 5, and she cares for their father who is suffering from dementia and is also having financial issues. Like most people in this situation, you call in the family, right? Well Lynette did just that, and my oh my, she got way more than she bargained for! On top of that, an old crush of Lynette's also comes back in town and he seems to know more than he's letting on!!

To say this family is "dysfunctional" would be putting it mildly! The secrets, betrayals, and promises broken are enough for you to think the siblings may never find their way back to a healthy and loving relationship!! But Catherine West wrote this story beautifully and watching this family walk out their issues was just incredible! I love it when you see truth setting people free, and in The Things We Knew, that is exactly what happens!

I give this book 5 ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥'s! Thank you Litfuse for allowing me this complimentary book in exchange for my honest review!!

Fetching Sweetness ~ Review

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Standing Between Stephanie and Her Dream
Is One Hundred Pounds of Lovable Trouble

It should have been so simple for Stephanie Pink: Meet up with Agnes Wharton in a small town in California, retrieve the reclusive author's valuable new manuscript, and be promoted to a full-fledged literary agent.

But Agnes's canine companion, Sweetness, decides to make a break for it before Stephanie can claim her prize. Until Agnes has Sweetness safely back at home in Eagle Cliff, Washington, Stephanie will never set eyes on the manuscript she needs to make her dreams come true.

When Stephanie tracks the runaway mutt to a campground, she meets Rhett Hastings—a man also on the run from a different life and a costly mistake. Rhett agrees to help Stephanie search for the missing dog...thus launching a surprising string of adventures and misadventures.

Once Sweetness gets added to the mix, it's a recipe for love and loss, merriment and mayhem, fun and faith in the backwoods of the Pacific Northwest.

MY THOUGHTS:


Fetching Sweetness, book 2 in Love Unleashed series, by Dana Mentink is just the best and sweetest book ever!! Nothing like a dog who brings people together is there!! Stephanie and Rhett are such great characters!! Stephanie is a book addict (among so many other things) so of course I had to love her, right! (I mean really, I am a total book addict! LOL)

Rhett is wonderful! He can be strong in one place and then completely vulnerable in another! Seeing a man share his vulnerability is so rare anymore and it just makes you swoon over him!

Together these two have such an amazing journey and i just love how the author wrote it in such a way that made me truly laugh out loud and even tear up too! All of us make our own agenda, plan what we "want" to happen, yet God in HIS infinite wisdom steps in and proves HIS way is best! 

Thank you Dana Metink for sharing your gift of writing with us! Thank you LifFuse for allowing me this complimentary book in exchange for my honest review !! This is a DEFINITE 5♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥'s Fetching Sweetness is a MUST READ!!

When Death Draws Near ~ Review

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Gwen Marcey takes death in stride. Until she’s faced with her own mortality.

Forensic artist Gwen Marcey is between jobs when she accepts temporary work in Pikeville, Kentucky—a small town facing big-city crime. But before Gwen can finish her first drawing of the serial rapist who is on the loose, the latest witness vanishes. Just like all the others.

Gwen suspects a connection between the rapist and the “accidental” deaths that are happening around town, but the local sheriff has little interest in her theories. When her digitally-obsessed teenage daughter joins her, Gwen turns her attention to a second assignment: going undercover in a serpent-handling church. She could get a handsome reward for uncovering illegal activity—a reward she desperately needs, as it seems her breast cancer has returned. But snakes aren’t the only ones ready to kill. Can Gwen uncover the truth—and convince anyone to believe her—before she becomes a victim herself?

In a thrilling race against time, When Death Draws Near plunges us into cold-case murders, shady politics, and a den of venomous suspects.

MY THOUGHTS:

"When Death Draws Near" is the 3rd book in Carrie Parks,  A Gwen Marcey Novel series. Having said that, when reading I didn't feel lost at any point because I haven't read the previous 2 books.  If anything, I'm dying to read them and will definitely be downloading them ASAP!! 

Gwen is a hoot! Her life is crazy and chaotic and despite kicking cancers bootie once, only to have it return, she doesn't let that stop her...NOT. AT. ALL. She is a forensic artist and while in between jobs she takes a temporary job that brings out some of the craziest things I think I've ever read about in a church and in this town!  But like I said, Gwen doesn't let much stop her no matter what the situation, even if the Sherriff doesn't really even want her there, let alone handling the case!! To add to everything, her daughter comes to live with her, and Gwen's determined to close this case, all the while keeping her daughter safe!!

I think this book a AWESOME! I will most definitely be reading the first 2 books in this series and I think I just might have found a new author that I LOVE!! You will NOT be able to put this book down and as far as thinking you have it figured out, she just might surprise you!! She sure did me :)

Thank you Litfuse for allowing me this complimentary book in exchange for my honest opinion! It is a DEFINITE ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥'s FOR SURE!!

Murder Mezzo Forte ~ Review

About the book: 

Murder Mezzo Forte (Lamplighter Mysteries, June 2016)

He is a reclusive history professor with musical hallucinations. . . .

She a headstrong professor of religion, a converted Wiccan. Earlier, they solved a campus murder, but now police say they formed two-thirds of an illicit love triangle with a newly-murdered female colleague and they're probably guilty of her murder. A leak of the alleged scandal to the college administration threatens their jobs.

Their desperate attempt to prove themselves innocent of the triangle and the murder plunges them into a tangle of unsavory corporate relationships among college trustees. And it puts their lives in danger from a mysterious criminal organization that seems to have tentacles everywhere.

Can this ill-matched pair's stumbling efforts succeed against the entrenched forces of the police, the college's incompetent administration, and that powerful but unseen criminal organization? If not, they may end up unemployed, in prison, or suffering a fate much worse.

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/295oYHO

My Thoughts:

This is the 2nd book in the Preston Barclay Mysteries! If you like mysteries, with a little romance, and throw in some pretty good humor then Murder Mezzo Forte is for you! In addition to all that I Loved that Author Donn Taylor pretty much kept me guessing til the end! Not all authors can do that so this was awesome!! Even though this is a 2nd book in the series you can read it as a stand alone however, there are quite a few references to the 1st book so if that would bother you then by all means start at the very first book ... you can get it here! It's called Rhapsody in Red!

Thank you Litfuse for allowing me this complimentary book in exchange for my honest opinion!

 

Dwelling Places ~ Review AND GIVEAWAY!!!!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Dwelling Places: Words to Live in Every Season (Abingdon, June 2016)

Do you long for serenity and refuge, peace and hope? Are you seeking a deeper spiritual life through a closer relationship with God?

If you’re tired of dwelling in busyness and noise, then perhaps one word a day can change your life. Award-winning author Lucinda Secrest McDowell knows that if you spend time each day turning to God’s Word for wisdom and guidance, your faith can flourish and grow.

Through short and inspiring readings, McDowell unpacks a single word—such as mercy, beauty, gratitude, or grace—to reveal a biblical blessing or challenge relevant to where you are. Full of stories and illustrations to empower you to live the word you have just read, each devotional ends with a benediction, written as if God were speaking directly to you.

These “dwelling places” that offer the joy of God’s promise and presence cover four seasons: fall, Advent, Lent, and summer. Whether in the midst of busy holiday schedules, holy days, ordinary moments, or changing seasons, a deeper faith can be as simple as a single word.

MY THOUGHTS:

There is NOTHING like the peace the Lord provides is there!!!  I know for me, I have to seek that Peace and by that I mean setting time aside to be with the Lord through prayer and HIS Word!  Dwelling Places: Words to Live in Every Season is a phenomenal devotional! It is broken up into 4 sections...Dwell, Shine, Renew, and Grow each one correlating with Fall, Advent, Lent and Summer. For my review I was to share my thoughts on the Summer readings or Grow. I love working in my yard and seeing Gods beauty and Summertime is my Favorite time of the year and adding this devotional to my morning quiet time was such a blessing!! 

Thank you Mrs. McDowell for hearing from the Lord and obeying HIS call to share this devotional with countless people!!  Thank you Litfuse for allowing me this complimentary book in exchange for my honest review!

Today is the FINAL DAY to enter the Season of Refreshment Giveaway with Lucinda Secrest McDowell

GO HERE to enter

Medical Judgement ~ Review

Click here to learn more and purchase a copy.

{MORE ABOUT RICHARD MABRY}

Dr. Richard Mabry is a retired physician who writes “medical suspense with heart.” His novels have won multiple awards: a semifinalist for International Thriller Writers’ debut novel; finalists for the Carol Award, Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award, and Romantic Times’ Reader’s Choice Award; and both finalist and winner of the Selah Award. He and his wife live in Frisco, Texas.

Find out more about Richard at http://www.rmabry.com.

Just what the doctor ordered: heart-thumping suspense and intrigue, courtesy of Richard Mabry’s new medical drama, Medical Judgment. Someone is after Dr. Sarah Gordon. They’ve stalked her and set a fire at her home. Trying to recover from the traumatic deaths of her husband and infant daughter is tough enough, but she has no idea what will come next. As the threats on her life continue to escalate, so do the questions: Who is doing this? Why are they after her? And with her only help being unreliable suitors in competition with each other, whom can she really trust?

After losing the two people she loved the most, Sarah Gordon doesn’t think life could get worse. But, after a fire in her garage is ruled an arson, she begins to realize someone is after her—and that person wants to see her dead. But first, they want to see her suffer.

Her late husband’s best friend, Kyle Andrews, and a recovering alcoholic detective, Bill Larson, are trying to solve the mystery before it’s too late, and they’re both trying to win her heart, too. Not only does Sarah feel torn between two men, she also feels as though she cannot trust anyone.

With creepy threats that become more and more sinister, Sarah finds herself in constant fear, but even the best home alarm technology won’t protect her. Who is doing this, and why are they after her?

MY THOUGHTS:

There are soooo many good things to say about Medical Judgment by Dr. Richard L. Mabry!! For starters, He is one of my favorite authors and I have loved every single book of his! This one is on the top of the list for sure!! Next is that the suspense will keep you turning pages ALL NIGHT LONG!! Another thing is how Dr. Mabry wrote the storyline for Dr. Gordon and allowed her to be "mad" at God after losing her husband, and not just that, but to feel the hope in all of it too! Then there is the "who done it" factor! Despite my thinking I had it all figured out, I will be danged if something didn't happen and show me I was wrong again...and again....and yes, AGAIN!! Gotta love a book that keeps you hanging on the edge of your seat!!! I could go on and on but I think it's better if I just say, "This is an ABSOLUTE book to add to your Summer Reading List!!!" You will love it!!!

Thank you Litfuse for allowing me this complimentary book in exchange for my honest review!!

More than Rivals - A True Story ~ Review

More Than Rivals by Ken Abraham ABOUT THE BOOK: In 1970, one small southern town was a powder keg ready to erupt. But it was also on the verge of something incredible. Eddie Sherlin and Bill Ligon grew up on opposite sides of the tracks in Gallatin, Tennessee. They knew the barriers that divided them--some physical landmarks and some hidden in the heart--but those barriers melted away when the boys were on the basketball court. After years of playing wherever they could find a hoop, Eddie and Bill rose as leaders of their respective high school teams. And at the end of the 1970 season, all-white Gallatin High and all-black Union High faced each other in a once-in-a-lifetime championship game. What happened that night would challenge Eddie and Bill--and transform their town. A fast-paced true story of courage, determination, and forgiveness, More Than Rivals offers hope and inspiration for our times My Thoughts.... What an inspiring story! Two young boys find friendship despite tensions in their home town of Gallatin, Tennessee. Eddie and Bill never saw "black or white," they just played a game they both loved to play and neither allowed the negativity win out. The friendship continued throughout the years and no matter what, they always did what was right! They did not succumb to the hatred and in turn they showed their town how seeing each other as equals and having faith can bring about healing for so many! I was totally cheering these two on and I would highly recommend this book!! It is a 5 ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥'s FOR SURE!!!! Thank you Baker Publishing for allowing me this complimentary book in exchange for my honest opinion!

Someone Like You ~ Review

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Single mom Julia Dare has a lot on her plate. 

A brand new Christian, Julia is busy trying to run her own business, spend time with her widowed mother, and raise her young son, Max, despite his father’s less-than-ideal influence on him. When a big account from her event-planning business sends her to the Caliente Springs resort, she’s shocked to come face-to-face with Zeke Monroe, the resort’s general manager and her college sweetheart.

With his faith in tatters, Zeke Monroe is determined to keep the historic Caliente Springs resort running despite financial difficulties. But when Julia walks back into his life, he can’t ignore the feelings she stirs up. As they work together on an important client’s dream wedding, the fate of the resort soon depends on their success. When Zeke and Julia are pushed to their limits both personally and professionally, will their history put up walls between them or bring them together?

Learn more and purchase a copy.

{MORE ABOUT VICTORIA BYLIN}

Victoria Bylin writes contemporary and historical romances known for their realistic, relatable characters. Her work has finaled in contests such as the Carol Awards, the RITAs, and the RT Reviewers’ Choice Award. A native of California, she and her husband now make their home in Lexington, Kentucky.

Find out more about Victoria at http://www.victoriabylin.com.

MY THOUGHTS:

This is the first book by Victoria Bylin and I am so excited that I have found yet another author that I LOVE! I am so looking forward to reading her other books but let's not get ahead of myself here.... 

Someone Like You is such a wonderful book! From the first pages to the last I was hooked! I love when people get a 2nd chance at love and Zeke and Julia do just that! But this book isn't all about love, it takes on some serious issues that people deal with! I truly appreciated how the author  didn't shy away from those issues, but in those issues, she shared Gods love and the Hope we all have in HIM. I think so many people will relate with this book and because of that I would highly recommend it!!! Heart of a Bookworm gives Someone Like You 5 ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥'s

Thank you LitFuse for allowing me this complimentary book in exchange for my honest review!!