How Her Ex Stole Christmas 

December 23, 2022

by Christy Barritt  (Author)

The countdown to disaster is on, and time is running out . . .

Event planner Kaylee St. James didn’t expect to see her ex-fiancé again after he broke her heart. Especially not now . . . two days before their canceled wedding. But when Ethan Sloan waltzes into her premier Christmas party—uninvited—with danger close on his heels, she realizes there’s much more to Ethan than she ever knew.

Ethan, a CIA operative, must keep dangerous information out of the wrong hands or people will die. He found the perfect hiding place, but he’ll need Kaylee’s help to retrieve the classified intel. Unfortunately, his jilted bride-to-be isn’t in the mood to talk, much less cooperate.

When Kaylee is swept into the middle of the ensuing chaos, she soon learns that danger is closer than she could ever imagine. Will her Christmas be totally ruined—if she even survives? Or is it possible that Ethan might not only save Christmas . . . but also save Kaylee?

HMMy thoughts:  How Her Ex Stole  Christmas  is a fun read about an unlikely couple who didn't get along so well when they met again  He wanted the engaagement ring back, she threw it in the lake.  Or did she?  Add in a slew of bad guys, stolen cars, and Christmas misadventures and you have a fun read.  Grab your copy today.  I was given a copy free and all opinions are my own.

Retirement Isn’t for Christians by B J Bassett

 

So, my son, throw yourself into this work for Christ. 2 Timothy 2:1 MSG

 

When we moved to a retirement community, I was shocked to discover my neighbors only wanted to play games and go to lunch. They lacked passion for anything outside of their pleasures.

 

Many of them had worked all their adult lives and wanted to enjoy their retirement years. I understood, and no doubt, they deserved a relaxing retirement. On the other hand, I still needed to feel like I was giving something back to my community and serving my Lord. I was passionate about reading to children and helping them fall in love with books. I also longed to serve in my new church in whatever area there was a need.

 

While some may feel differently, I believe Christians are responsible for serving God no matter what age we are.

 

Show me where You want me to serve You, Lord. Amen.

 Reprinted from

The King’s Daughters—

A Women’s Devotional

                                                                        BJ Bassett

B. J. Bassett encourages others as an author, teacher and speaker. Her books include a contemporary novel, Gillian’s Heart; a historical novel Lily; Sweet Charity; A Touch of Grace—The G.R.A.C.E. Ministries Story; and coauthor of a children’s devotional My Time with God, Focus on the Family, Heritage Builders, with over 55,000 copies sold.

 

As a contributing writer, publications consist of Writer’s Handbook 2000, The Writer, and The Focus on the Family Guide to Growing a Healthy Home, Wolgemuth& Hyatt, Publishers, Inc.—consistently on Bookstore Journal’s Best-selling Christian Books List from November 1990 - February 1991, and voted the 10 Best Books for 1990 by Today’s Christian Woman.

 

Magazines, devotional booklets, curriculum and newspaper publishers include Focus on the Family, Woman’s World, The Quiet Hour, Pathways to God, Devotions, Harcourt Brace, WordAction, Gospel Publishing and Times Standard (newspaper).

 

She teaches writing workshops at Umpqua Community College, Roseburg, OR and at writer’s conferences. As a speaker for Stonecroft Ministries, she tells her story of rejection and acceptance, not only in life, but as a writer as well. She also offers book talks, including discussion questions and shares the journey -- from the seed of an idea to a published book.

 

Memberships: ACFW and Oregon Christian Writers (OCW).

 

She enjoys reading, jigsaw puzzles, knitting, munching warm scones oozing with butter and strawberry jam and sipping earl grey tea.

 

 

Hearts of Steel (The Blackstone Legacy) #preorder #HistoricalRomance

 

Hearts of Steel 

(The Blackstone Legacy) 

January 17, 2023

by Elizabeth Camden  (Author)

Book 3 of 3: The Blackstone Legacy

His steel empire has catapulted him to the top of the world, but loving her could cost him everything.

Maggie Molinaro survived a hardscrabble childhood in the downtrodden streets of Manhattan to become a successful businesswoman. After a decade of sacrifice, she now owns a celebrated ice cream company. But when she offends a corrupt banker, she unwittingly sets off a series of calamities that threaten to destroy her life's work.

Liam Blackstone is a charismatic steel magnate committed to overhauling factory conditions for the steelworkers of America. Standing in his way is the same villain determined to ruin Maggie. What begins as a practical alliance to defeat a common enemy soon evolves into a romance between two wounded people determined to beat the odds.

A spiraling circle of treachery grows increasingly dangerous as Liam and Maggie risk their lives and fortunes for the good of the city. It will require all their wit and ingenuity to protect everything--and everyone--they hold dear.

My thoughts:  HEARTS OF STEEL is the most recent book by my favorite historical author, Elizabeth Camden. She writes stories based on real events, and my heart broke for all these poor characters had to endure.  I wanted justice for them!  I had fallen in love with the characters in previous books and couldn't wait to read this story.  If you or a friend like historical romance, you will want to read HEARTS OF STEEL as well as the other two books in the series.  This will make a great last minute gift with this book arriving in time to battle the winter blahs. Recommended.  I was given a copy free and all opinions are my own.

Her Unlikely Amish Protector: An Uplifting Inspirational Romance (Love Inspired, 6)

 

Her Unlikely Amish Protector: An Uplifting Inspirational Romance 

(Love Inspired, 6) 

December 27, 2022

by Jocelyn McClay  (Author)

He’s learned from his mistakes…  But can he protect her from his past?

Miriam Schrock has one rule in her quest for a respectable Amish life—stay away from troublemakers like Aaron Raber. That is, until their employers play matchmaker and Miriam sees a different side to the former rebel. Aaron promises his time with an Englischer gang is behind him. But when his past returns, will protecting Miriam from their threats mean losing her for good?

From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.

Marilyn's thoughts:  This humorous and touching story found Miriam Schrock and Aaron Raber being thrown together in various situations including their employer. Miriam and Aaron both had hidden pasts that they still needed to forgive themselves for. I found myself laughing and then tears with the picturesque and descriptive words of events from lighthearted ones to lives being in danger. One thing about Aaron he definitely wanted to protect Miriam in every situation and worked to prove it. The characters are relatable and it was nice to catch up with previous characters in Miller’s Creek, Wisconsin. 

 

This is a beautiful story that one’s past does not define them when they seek forgiveness from God, others and forgiving themselves. The story is filled with family, faith, forgiveness, new beginnings and healing for a happier life.

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author without any obligation to write a positive review. I have expressed my own thoughts.

 

 

 

Bound by Mayhem 

December 12, 2022

by Christy Barritt  (Author)

Book 5 of 5: Beach Bound Books and Beans Mysteries

As cast and crew members prepare for Lantern Beach’s first annual Christmas play, catastrophe strikes.

Abby Mendez, the director and brainchild behind the play, never shows up for a dress rehearsal. Threats emerge, and it becomes clear that not everyone on the island feels the Christmas spirit.

With dangerous encounters and ghostly disappearing acts threatening not only the play but also the safety of Lantern Beach residents, former police chief Mac MacArthur and Abby’s friend Tali Robinson jump in to help. The stakes rise as the perpetrator continues to haunt Abby’s past, torment her present, and threaten her future.

When it seems all hope is nearly lost, can the people of Lantern Beach work together to save the play? Or will this phantom scrooge steal the final act?

My thoughts: Bound by Mayhem is the fifth and final book in this spin-off series, but it easily stands alone.  I had trouble figuring out who-dun-it in this cozy mystery, but it was a fast and active read that kept me guessing.  Fans will want this entire collection of novellas for a gift.  Recommended.  I was given a copy free and all opinions are my own.

 

I'm So Glad You Were Born: Celebrating Who You Are 

Hardcover – Picture Book

 September 27, 2022

by Ainsley Earhardt  (Author), 

Kim Barnes (Illustrator)

Parents and children both have big dreams—about their life and the wonders the future holds. I’m So Glad You Were Born celebrates those dreams as well as the wonder of everyday experiences like sweet and special snuggles and cuddles, fun times and learning times too!

New York Times bestselling author and FOX News anchor Ainsley Earhardt has created a picture book that celebrates ALL the dreams come true--a parent's, a child’s, and Creator God’s! I'm So Glad You Were Born is full of love and hope and has a sweet, playful message inspired by Scripture that will leave your child without a doubt just how thankful you are that they are in your life and that they were created to be extraordinary.

I’m So Glad You Were Born:

• Will appeal to children as well as the adults who love them
• Is a perfect gift for childhood celebrations including birthdays, baby showers, graduation gifts, communion, confirmation, and dedication gifts
• Is written in sweet (and humorous) rhyme perfect for reading aloud
• Features beautiful and fun illustrations by artist Kim Barnes

 

I’m So Glad You Were Born is an inspiring and loving message to your child, sure to become a go-to favorite for reading aloud as well as during bedtime snuggles!

My thoughts: I'm so Glad You Were Born is a wonderful story about how wonderful your special children are and why you love them.  I wanted to read this to my youngest daughter (who is not so young anymore) but she's to big for it (she says).  My oldest daughter is saving it for eventual grandchildren.  This is a book that will be cherished, loved, and read and reread.  I adored it.  Perfect gift for the child in your life.  i was given a copy free and all opinions are my own.

The Weekly Prayer Project for Kids: Journal, Pray, Reflect, and Connect with God (The Weekly Project Series)

 

The Weekly Prayer Project for Kids: Journal, Pray, Reflect, and Connect with God 

(The Weekly Project Series) 

Hardcover – 

November 1, 2022

by Zondervan (Author), 

Kat Kalindi (Illustrator)

The Weekly Prayer Project for Kids?helps children 8 to 12 discover the power of all types of prayer and the impact it has in their lives. This year-long guided prayer journal encourages young readers to talk to God about their blessings, hopes, fears, dreams, and more.  

Fun journaling prompts and beautiful photos and illustrations will keep kids engaged, while Bible verses and mindful reflections will deepen their faith as they develop their own personal relationship with God. And the weekly format is perfect for busy schedules while still building a regular habit.  

The Weekly Prayer Project for Kids?is: 

• Perfect for those new to faith and prayer life, but thought-provoking enough for someone already familiar with prayer 
• A unique journaling format designed to help young readers focus and organize time for prayer 
• An ideal gift for birthday, holidays, communion, and confirmation 

 

Each week includes: 

• A biblical theme to focus on 
• Scripture—a short but impactful Bible verse to help readers reflect and think deeply 
• Journaling prompts to help young readers pray, reflect, and connect with God  

 

This 12-month journal: 

• Showcases beautiful photography and bright, whimsical illustrations 
• Provides plenty of journaling space 
• Easily fits on a nightstand or in a bookbag 

 

Check out The Weekly Project series for adults, featuring: 

• The Weekly Prayer Project 
• The Weekly Faith Project 
• The Weekly Grlatitude Project 
• The Weekly Self-Care Project 

My thoughts:  This weekly prayer project is specially designed to help kids grow in their faith by journaling their thoughts, reflections, prayers, and hopefully connect with God.  If you have a child who's interested in God and growing in faith, this would be an excellent gift idea for them.  I like it, though it is obviously made and designed for school age children, probably tweeners.  I was given a copy free and all opinions are my own.

Happily Ever Amish (The Amish of Apple Creek)

 

Happily Ever Amish 

(The Amish of Apple Creek) 

October 25, 2022

by Shelley Shepard Gray  (Author)

In the first in a heartwarming new series, New York Times bestselling author Shelley Shepard Gray—one of the most beloved voices in inspirational romance—welcomes readers to Apple Creek, Ohio, a small, vibrant Amish community where everyone seems to know everyone else. But that doesn’t mean Apple Creek doesn’t have its share of surprises, secrets, and unexpected romance… Perfect for fans of Beverly Lewis, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Charlotte Hubbard, Happily Ever Amish is rich with warmth and utterly endearing characters sure to enchant readers looking for a sweet romance.

A Paperback Original—Also Available as a Simultaneous Hardcover Edition
 
Addie Byler may be Apple Creek’s resident wallflower, but she knows she has a lot to offer—and much to be grateful for. Raised by her loving grandmother, she lives a life filled with good friends and hard work. Wary of romance, Addie assumes no man will look beyond her glasses and her tendency to talk to her rescue donkey, Snickers—until the day she finds a note from a secret admirer. A prank, most likely. But then, a second note arrives . . .
 
It’s not that Daniel Miller doesn’t like Addie, he just doesn’t want to court her. She’s too willful, too chatty, too odd. Yet when he learns she’s been teased because she’s never had a beau, he decides to send a little note of encouragement. One note leads to another. And when Addie begins replying with thoughtful messages of her own, he’s struck by her sweetness and warmth. Soon, what began as a sympathetic gesture becomes something deeper. Daniel fears revealing the truth, but with courage, faith—and a helping hand from their close-knit community—Apple Creek’s most unlikely couple may find their path to happiness . . .

My thoughts:. This wasn't my favorite book by this author, but it does have some good thoughts. I like how the author showed that everyone has some worth even those people that their peers consider nobody. Once you get to know them you find that they are actually somebody worth knowing.  I like Daniel he was sweet and considerate. Addie was insecure and felt like she was nobody, until she learned that she had value. The ending was kind of rushed but it was sweet. If you like Amish stories you will enjoy this one. There is little to no faith message and the romances very light. It is more about growing up and discovering who You are. I was given a copy free and all opinions are my own.