God Sees Her Kick-Off Package plus #giveaway!!!

About the Book

Book:  God Sees Her

Author: Our Daily Bread

Genre:  Devotional

Release Date: March 3, 2020

Following the overwhelming success and rave reviews of God Hears Her, we’re bringing you another devotional written by women for women to reassure you that God is with you. God Sees Her is a beautifully styled gift book containing 366 meditations with accompanying Scripture that speak to the heart of women.

The title comes from a story in an Old Testament book of the Bible—Genesis—where Hagar is on the run, alone in the desert with nowhere to go. The angel of the Lord finds her and calls her by name. After this encounter, Hagar exclaimed, “You are the God who sees me” (Genesis 16:13). Women today need this same assurance . . . God sees you, God knows you by name, and God cares about every detail of your life.
Let these short Our Daily Bread devotionals written by women like you wash over your soul and remind you each day that God is near. The handy size, ribbon marker, and decorative cover make it perfect for gift giving to your girlfriends too.

 My thoughts (LVH):  

I love this devotional! More importantly, both my teenage daughters love it and are using it for their own personal devotions! I think this would make an excellent gift for a woman who needs to be encouraged that God does see her! It starts with a scripture passage, a featured verse, and then a short devotional, that is related in someway to the scripture. A small, beautifully designed hardcover book, it would be easy to carry with you on a business trip, to visit family, or a vacation, or to keep in your desk at work. My copy is on my bedside table for easy assess. An excellent devotion for women, by women! I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.

Click here for your copy.

More about God Sees Her

This is a follow up to the successful 365-devotional, God Hears Her. So far, it’s moved more than 200,000 copies.

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, April 28

Girls in White Dresses, April 28

The Avid Reader, April 29

deb’s Book Review, April 29

For Him and My Family, April 30

Lighthouse Academy, April 30

Emily Yager, May 1

She Lives To Read, May 1

Remembrancy, May 2

Lis Loves Reading, May 2

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 3

Inklings and notions, May 3

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 4

Godly Book Reviews, May 4

Older & Smarter?, May 5

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, May 6

Genesis 5020, May 6

Blossoms and Blessings, May 7

amandainpa, May 7

For the Love of Literature, May 8

Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, May 8

Splashes of Joy, May 9

Hallie Reads, May 9

Artistic Nobody, May 10

Nancy E Wood, May 10

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, May 11

Bookishly Beverly, May 11

Giveaway

To celebrate their tour, Our Daily Bread is giving away the grand prize package of a God Sees Her hardcover, God Hears Her leather-like, God Hears Her journal, God Hears Her CD, God Hears Her pen, and God Hears Her Scripture & Encouragement cards!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/f983/god-sees-her-celebration-tour-giveaway

Interview with Kathleen Friesen about her new book Written in the Clouds

Today we welcome my friend and critique partner Kathleen Friesen to my blog to tell us about her   new book

 Thanks for stopping by Kathleen! Tell us about the book:

Written in the Clouds is a sweet double romance. Here’s the blurb:

An extraordinary cloud formation points two couples toward a forever love, if they dare follow its lead.

Serena Hanson, caregiver for her mother and rental properties, meets JR Carmichael when a property sale between their parents’ companies is threatened.  From their first encounter, sparks fly, but will they kindle a happily ever after? Maybe, just maybe, they’ll find love at first flight.

Meanwhile, Serena’s mother, Blythe Hanson, reconnects with her high school love, Jim Carmichael, JR’s father. They’d never forgotten one another, but after so many years and so many changes, is their reunion too late?

Can love—for two generations—be written in the clouds?

Why do you write the kind of books you do?

For me, whether writing or reading, a good book is a journey. Books can lead to new locations, interesting characters and exciting experiences. I want my readers to realize all these things as they journey to a deeper understanding of faith, hope and love.

What is your current work in progress?

Hearts Unbroken is the second book in my Rockwell Chronicles series, following Hearts Unfolding. The subject matter isn’t easy to write, but I believe the message of redemption is beautiful and needed.

What three things about you would surprise readers?

1. Several years ago, my husband and I farmed white-tailed deer here in Saskatchewan, Canada. For a few of those years, we also had a small herd of bison.

2. Even though I took swimming lessons many times, I don’t swim, because I float twelve to eighteen inches under water—it’s hard to breathe down there!

3. For a few years, I was a member of a hula ensemble. A natural klutz, I longed to feel graceful, and it worked. Fun and good exercise.

What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

Designing spaces brings me joy and is a useful interest since we’ve built and renovated several homes. I love walking trails, especially forested ones while camping in our RV. Gardening is an intense but seasonal pleasure.

What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it?

Writer’s block often hits when my characters refuse to talk to me. I can only write what I “see” in the scene, so if I cannot imagine the scene clearly, I’m stumped. When that happens, I may switch to another writing project, or I might do something more active to help get the blood—and hopefully my imagination—flowing well again.

Share your bio:

Kathleen Friesen has always loved to lose herself in a good story, especially tales of love and faith that overcome. These days, she'll often get lost in her current work in progress, whatever it may be. Kathleen's stories invite the reader to risk faith, dare to love, and enjoy the results.

When she’s not at the keyboard, you may find Kathleen glamping, visiting with friends old and new, or helping her husband renovate their house. When the renovations are finally done, you may hear her cheering.

Social media and buying links

www.facebook.com/kathleenefriesen

www.kathleenfriesen.weebly.com

https://twitter.com/KFriesenAuthor

https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00JHZF0MC

My thoughts (LVH): WRITTEN IN THE CLOUDS is a dual romance and it is so sweet watching mother and daughter fall in love with father and son.  Both heroines have hurdles to jump on the way to love, but this was so sweetly written.  

Fiona, It's Bedtime (A Fiona the Hippo Book)

Fiona, It's Bedtime 

(A Fiona the Hippo Book) 

Hardcover – ebook, audio

April 7, 2020

by Zondervan (Author), Richard Cowdrey  (Illustrator)

Age Range: 4 - 8 years

Grade Level: Preschool - 3

Series: A Fiona the Hippo Book (Book 3)

Hardcover: 32 pages

Publisher: Zonderkidz 

ISBN-13: 978-0310767558

It’s time to go to bed and Fiona can’t fall asleep until she’s said “GOODNIGHT” to all her animal friends at the zoo.

Fiona, It’s Bedtime, a follow-up to the New York Times bestseller Fiona the Hippo and A Very Fiona Christmas, is the latest book to showcase the adorable internet sensation from the Cincinnati Zoo. Fiona is beloved by fans all over the world, and her newest book is the perfect bedtime read-aloud for cuddling with your little one. Fiona, It’s Bedtime, illustrated by New York Times bestselling artist Richard Cowdrey, features everyone’s favorite hippo who wanders through the zoo saying “GOODNIGHT” to all her animals friend before she heads to bed and settles into slumber.  

With a cover that shines with spot UV and foil, this book is perfect for Fiona enthusiasts, fans of Sandra Boynton’s The Going to Bed Book, and any animal lover who’s ready for a read-aloud rhyming bedtime story.

My thoughts (LVH): FIONA, IT'S BEDTIME is another adorable addition to the Fiona series. It is set at a zoo, a favorite outing for children of all ages. The art work is fantastic and children will love the vivid colors and studying them as the bedtime verses are read to them. 

This is not Christian so should appeal to everyone.  

My youngest daughter wants to read our copy to an eventual niece or nephew and gives it five stars. Beautifully designed and perfect for gift-giving.

I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.

The Sisters of Sugarcreek

The Sisters of Sugarcreek 

Paperback – ebook, hardcover

February 1, 2017

by Cathy Liggett  (Author)

Paperback: 400 pages

Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.

ISBN-13: 978-1496404893

One of Booklist’s Top 10 Inspirational Fiction for 2017

Many lives were changed the day a fire burned down Faith Community Church, devastating the small town of Sugarcreek, Ohio.

Now a young Amish widow, Lydia Gruber faces an uncertain future. Her husband, a craftsman and volunteer firefighter, always took care of everything, keeping her isolated from others in their community. Without anyone or any skills, how will she survive?

With the death of her beloved aunt Rose in the fire, single mom Jessica Holtz inherits Rose’s Knit One Quilt Too cottage. Though determined to keep the shop open in her aunt’s memory, she doesn’t know the first thing about knitting and quilting and begins to see her aunt’s dream slip through her fingers.

When Liz Cannon lost her dear friend Rose, she also lost her partner in the Secret Stitches Society―the name they gave themselves while delivering gifts of hope to troubled folks in the dark of night. Liz convinces Jessica to keep the anonymous society going, despite the younger women’s inadequacy with knitting and sewing needles. But soon Liz has problems of her own as the life she has rebuilt for herself begins to crumble again.

When Liz and Jessica choose Lydia for their first mission, the three women cross paths and form an unlikely friendship in the aftermath of tragedy. As they walk together through triumph and heartbreak―through grief and new chances at love―they begin to discover that with friends by your side, a stitch of hope can be found anywhere.

Marilyn's Thoughts:  

The Sisters of Sugarcreek is a lovely story with three women coming together with their own issues and grief. The characters were three dimensional with true to life issues. The interwoven message of faith, God's love, second chances and new beginnings kept the pages turning. The warmth and support of the community and friends brought inspiration how a small town will reach out in the time of need. This is the first book I've read by Liggett but it will not be my last.

For Such a Time as This by B. J. Bassett

Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
    and do not rely on your own insight.
In all your ways acknowledge him,
    and he will make straight your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6

            I began writing devotionals in 1982 for my local newspaper, The Humboldt Beacon. The weekly column was titled An Inspirational Thought. Later I wrote devotionals for many Christian publications and have continued to write them for Pathways to God since 1987.

            Two years ago, I felt called to write a book of 366 devotionals. My working title was Your Crown Awaits—A Women’s Devotional. My inspiration was a photo of a young girl adjusting her crown. With our recent pandemic, I may change the title of my book to For Such a Time as This.

            Devotionals provide us with hope, courage, and direction. They inspire and bring us closer to God, deepening our faith.

            During times of trials, we need to put our complete trust in God. He knows what we are experiencing as well as the outcome. God’s Word needs to be our first resource. There are also books and blogs that inspire and encourage us.

            My prayer for us is to trust God, find courage, direction, draw closer to Him, and deepen our faith during this pandemic.

Heavenly Father, I put my complete trust in Your will for my life always, even during this time of isolation and waiting. Give me courage and direction. I ask to be faithful as You are faithful. Amen.

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.

Interview with Candee Fick about her new book A Castle in the Clouds

Today we welcome Candee Fick to my blog. Candee is a critique partner and a dear friend and I love her stories.

Thanks for stopping by Candee.  Tell us about the book:

My contribution to the Love is in the Air boxed set collection is called A Castle in the Clouds. Inspired by my real-life trip to teach writing to students at a castle in Colorado, the two main characters find themselves chaperoning a dozen high school students on a literary tour of Scotland, England, and Paris. Sparks start flying at the airport, but falling in love surrounded by teenagers was never part of the plan.

Why do you write the kind of books you do?

I write Christian romance—both contemporary and historical settings—with the goal to encourage fellow believers with a mixture of faith, hope, and love while putting God’s amazing attributes on display. The current series I’m working on revolves around the idea that we are adopted into God’s family…and if you’re a child of the King of Kings, doesn’t that remind you a bit of royalty and castles? And yet, Jesus was the ultimate example of a servant leader who did not grasp onto the superficial trappings of his position. I’ve enjoyed crafting characters who discover that same contrast between serving and leading while stepping into their God-given gifts and identities.

What is your current work in progress?

I’m in the process of research for The Lost Heir, another castle book set in Regency era England. I know my characters and the essential plot elements but need to verify a few historical and geographic facts first so I don’t write myself into an impossible corner. Once I get the wrinkles ironed out, the words should pile up quickly. I’m hoping for a release in August.

What three things about you would surprise readers?

I hold a degree in Elementary Education but my first full-time job included teaching high school Chemistry. I was voted cross country coach of the year by our league during the same season I was battling mono for the second time. And prior to quitting that job so I could write and edit full-time, I spent fifteen years doing legal research in asbestos cases for an industrial hygiene company.

What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

You just had to take reading off the table, didn’t you? That’s my biggest stress reliever. But outside that absolute favorite, I’d have to say I really enjoy crocheting and putting together puzzles. There’s just something so satisfying about measurable progress and the repetitive process is calming which in turn sparks bursts of creative ideas.

What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it?

The current pandemic has drained my creativity and having everyone at home constantly interrupting makes getting into “the flow” virtually impossible. Not to mention the underlying anxiety and series of unknowns hasn’t helped either my quality of sleep or my blood pressure. I’m doing my best to exercise, eat healthy, nap, and read to reduce the stress levels so my brain and body are as good as they can be. I’ve also given myself permission to just get “something” done even if it’s nowhere near as much as I would normally do. When this crisis passes, my pace can finally pick up again, but in the meantime, I’m still making progress even if it’s slow.

Share your bio:

Candee Fick is a multipublished, award-winning author. She is also the wife of a high school football coach and the mother of three children, including a daughter with a rare genetic syndrome. When not busy writing, editing, or coaching other authors, she can be found cheering on the home team at sporting events, exploring the great Colorado outdoors, indulging in dark chocolate, and savoring happily-ever-after endings through a good book.

Social media and buying links

Love is in the Air: https://books2read.com/u/3LDxaD

Newsletter sign-up: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/a5p3s2

https://www.facebook.com/Author.Candee.Fick

https://twitter.com/CandeeFick

My thoughts (LVH):   I loved A CASTLE IN THE CLOUDS! Such a unique idea!  I wish I would've had an English teacher like this.  I learned somethings about  Shakespeare I didn't know.  This was a  great read.

The Refuge 

Paperback – hardcover, ebook, audio

April 30, 2019

by Ann H. Gabhart  (Author)

Paperback: 400 pages

Publisher: Revell 

ISBN-13: 978-0800729271

Can the power of love and the bond of family triumph in a community that cannot accept either?

When Darcie and Walter Goodwin hear of a new cholera epidemic sweeping the area, they join the Shakers whose villages seem immune to the disease. It's meant to be a temporary stay, but Walter is killed in a riverboat accident. With no family and no money, Darcie has little choice but to stay with the Shakers. To complicate matters, she is expecting a baby conceived before she and her husband came to the Shaker village. Marital relationships are considered sinful in this celibate community, putting Darcie in a unique--and lonely--position. Can the arrival of widower Flynn Keller and his headstrong daughter offer Darcie the hope of happiness . . . and family?

Ann H. Gabhart returns to the enigmatic world of the Shakers in this emotional exploration of the power of love and the bond of family.

Marilyn's thoughts:  The Refuge is a vivid read set in 1849 at the Quaker village of Harmony Hill. Darcie Goodwin’s world was shattered with the untimely death of her husband Walter after they had went to the Shaker’s village. The beliefs of the Shaker brought condemnation to Darcie when she realized she was with child since the Shakers did not believe in marriage. The birth of her child did bring moments of the elderly sisters to show more mercy and kindness to her, but she longed for more. 

Flynn Keller knew how to train and care for horses, thus it was a hidden blessing when the Quaker brethren asked for his assistance with Walter’s horse. An unexpected encounter between Flynn and Darcie stirred feelings. With Flynn’s daughter, Leatrice, being placed in the Quaker children’s home brought an opportunity for her to assist Darcie with her infant, Anna Grace. Gabhart definitely penned another true picture of the Shaker’s beliefs in this historical fiction tale that encompassed grief, hardship, faith, pray, and a chance of romance with new beginnings for her characters. 

I was not required to write a review but have expressed my own opinion. I have enjoyed reading books written by Ann Gabhart and look forward to more in the future. She has done her research well and demonstrates it with the ins and outs of the Shaker beliefs in the 1800’s. 

  

Pockets of Promise (The Pocket Quilt)

Pockets of Promise

 (The Pocket Quilt) 

Paperback – 

April 30, 2020

by Laurie Stroup Smith  (Author)

• Paperback: 200 pages
• Publisher: Vinspire Publishing 
• ISBN-13: 978-1734150742

Mariah Mast's best friend, Josiah Weaver, has concentrated his efforts on providing for their future together, but on her eighteenth birthday, Mariah finds herself edging away from Josiah and her faith. An encounter with police, a misunderstanding of intentions, and hurt feelings compound her confusion. Her grandmother sends her to stay with an aunt in Pinecraft and gives her a pocket quilt with handwritten messages tucked inside.

Thrilled to have her help at the bed and breakfast, Aunt Birdie introduces Mariah to a group of new friends, including Luke Yoder, a young Amish man who works for his father's construction company. Spending time with him opens up a new world for Mariah. Her grandmother's words of wisdom offer guidance as she makes a decision that will have lasting consequences for those she loves. Will she find fulfillment in Florida? Or does her heart belong in Holmes County?

Marilyn's thoughts:  This debut book by Laurie Stroup Smith is a winner with the creativity of the story surrounding Mariah Mast discovering who and what she truly wanted in life. Her struggle with knowing if she wanted to be baptized into the Amish faith is realistic with teenagers today in every culture. A trip to Florida to assist an aunt with her bed and breakfast, a quilt from her Mammi filled with letters of her life just might be the answer along with meeting new friends and hearing their struggles. The scenes were picturesque and the dialogue easy to follow where I was right with Mariah and the other characters. There is a faith message for readers who especially enjoy that aspect in Amish fiction. I look forward to reading more books by this upcoming author.

I received a complimentary advance e-copy and was under no obligation to write a positive review. I have shared my own sincere thoughts.