Journal Edition - NIV Holy Bible For Girls

Book Review of HIV Holy Bible For Girls - Journal Edition

by Zondervan


REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

     I was asked to review this new girls Bible, which is a JOURNAL EDITION!  I love all things coloring, sketching, drawing, journaling, doodling, etc.  So, I was eager to get my hands on a copy of this new Bible.  Right out of the gate I noticed the appeal of the hard - cover.  It's fun and sparkly and very attractive to girls. It has an elastic pink band to keep the Bible closed and your loose-leaf ideas safe inside.  Although the font is a touch too small, the journal area is about a third of the page, and plenty of room to add your sketches. There is not much in the way of "helps" in the back of the Bible - which is missing an index, concordance, maps, etc.  A table of weights and measures is the only little blurb in the book. I would not consider this to be a study Bible, but more of a read and create Bible.  The paper is thick, and would work well with archiving pens, and a pretty ribbon marker is included. 

I would recommend this book to any age girl or woman that likes to journal and create.  This would be a perfect gift Bible for your special artsy girl.

If you are open to another choice - I would select The Beautiful Word Bible instead, as it has more options, beauty and creative opportunities.  

(I received this book free from Handlebar as a request to review this book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.")

Gratitude Coloring Book Review

Book Review of Gratitude

designed by Jennifer Ghionzoli
by Living Expressions

"A Prayer and Praise Coloring Journal"


REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

     I was asked to review this new-on-the-market adult coloring journal and I'm so wonderfully happy that I did.  This is the most lovely and well put together coloring book I've ever had the privilege of owning and would be a perfect gift for any lady in your life ages 14-100.  Each page is crafted beautifully with a devotional, Scripture or writing/drawing prompt.  The coloring pages are stunning with a modern meets vintage feel that is so in right now. I'm so torn between keeping this sweet keepsake for my own collection or giving it away.  I guess I will wait on the Lord's secret whispers on that.  You need to buy this book for yourself or a friend.  Like now, get it today. 

The exciting part?  Samples! Tyndale’s Inspire Creativity board on Pinterest has downloadable samplers and sharable coloring pages from our coloring and Bible journaling line, the Living Expressions Collection!  Get to coloring girls...

And you can go to Living Expression Collection for the latest news and information on their coloring and journaling products.

(I received this book free from Tyndale Blog Network as a request to review this book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.")

 

 

Praying Over God's Promises Book Review

Book Review of Praying Over God's Promises

by Thomas R. Yeakley

"The Lost Art of Taking Him at His Word"


REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

     I chose this book because I absolutely love God's Word, and wanted to understand more about His promises for us, and how to pray over them. This book looks like a quick read from the outside, as it's only 110 pages. Yet, the content inside is a treasure trove, insisting that you spend quality time within each page, breaking down and boldly studying the information. Yeakley devotes an entire chapter to teaching the reader how to plead God's promises.  In the final chapter you will even get a deeper knowledge of Abraham and his willingness to trust the promises God gave him.  The back of the book includes an Appendix which lays out the different topics of God's promises and the book, chapter and verse on where they are to be found for our own study into the promises.  Although this book is short and has good information, the writing is very text-booky and dry.  This book appeals to the rationale and deep intellect.  This is not written as much of the most popular Christian books are today with wit, humor and catchy life-stories.  This book has meat and substance without thrills, and can tend to be a tedious read.  I recommend this book for men and women 18 and up. 

(I received this book free from Tyndale Blog Network as a request to review this book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.")

Girls Slimline Holy Bible Book Review

Book Review of Girls Slimline Holy Bible NLT

by Tyndale House Publishers


REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

 
     Here's a quick overview of this sweet new Bible for girls.  This Bible will definitely attract girls ages 7-12.  Its cover is aimed at the younger girls with it crushed velvet feel and bright colors.  This cute Bible is even lined with silver sparkly glitter along the rim. Girls will also be drawn to the neon pink inside and the edges of the pages are violet. The Bible is very simple, with no commentary, no book tabs and the text is quite small.  Yet, it does include a user-friendly concordance / dictionary, as well as some other features - memory verse list, 365 day reading plan, Jesus' words in red and useful Biblical maps. The New Living Translation is used in this Bible, which is excellent for young readers, as it's a clear and understandable translation. I do recommend this Bible to younger girls, especially if this is their first Bible.  My favorite part of this Bible is the back cover, which reads "Bold Faith".  Isn't that what it's all about!

(I received this book free from Tyndale Blog Network as a request to review this book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.")

The Bones Will Speak Book Review

Book Review of The Bones Will Speak

by Carrie Stuart Parks

"A Gwen Marcey Novel"


REVIEW BY: L. Kimbro

Note from L. Bankhead: Please warmly welcome my daughter, L. Kimbro, as she read and reviewed this exciting new mystery thriller.
   
     This is the second installment in the Gwen Marcey novel series.   Gwen Marcey is a forensic artist for the Missoula Police Department in Montana.  One day her dog, Winston, brings home a human skull.  This leads her to find out there is a serial killer in their community and on the loose.  Her dog leads her to a cabin where a girl is found tortured and clinging to life.  To her astonishment, the victim looks remarkably like her daughter. The killer has a score to settle from long before and Gwen will be put to the test using her forensic skills to track down the killer.
    My opinion about this book, is that it is extremely well written with many twists and turns.  The author is very detailed and makes everything very vivid, coming alive on the pages. Parks leaves you hanging on the end of each chapter, really making you want to read more.  I'm definitely going to go back to the first book and read it.  I look forward to Parks coming out with new books.  I recommend this mystery to men and women, but no one under the age of 14 (rape, graphic torture, etc are mentioned). 

(I received this book free from BookLook Bloggers as a request to review this book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

The Case of The Sin City Sister Book Review

Book Review of Sin City Sister

by Lynne Hinton

"A divine private detective agency mystery"


REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

    
     This is the second installment in the series about nun and private detective, Eve Divine.  In this novel Eve has taken a sabbatical from the convent to mull over her decision to either remain a nun or continue with her love of being a private eye. In the meantime, a case opens in her town of Madrid, New Mexico with a man missing since the late 1800's and she's also stumped by the disappearance of her wild-child, Las Vegas living sister, Dorisanne.  This motorcycle riding nun heads to Vegas to get to the bottom of what's become of her sister. 
     You will fall in love with Eve, Daniel and the Captain in this easy to read mystery from Lynne Hinton.  It's cheerful and a great diversion from the hot summer nights.  You will get some action and a little thrill mixed in as well. I recommend this book for anyone 14 years old and up.  Even for a Vegas setting, it's very clean and conservative.  It's not necessary to read the first installment to get a kick out of this novel, but to do so may give you extra back story and character development you may enjoy.  Somehow this book felt reminiscent of Tuppence from the Agatha Christie novels, but now for the modern era. I think you'll enjoy a copy.

(I received this book free from BookLook Bloggers as a request to review this book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Summer.... 

Praying Over God's Promises by Thomas R. Yeakley

Whatever The Cost Book Review

 

Book Review of Whatever The Cost

by David and Jason Benham

"Facing your fears, dying to your dreams and living powerfully"


REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

     This book by famed brothers, David and Jason Benham, shares the journey of the twins chasing their dreams.  They come to a cross-roads in their lives to either sacrifice everything they believe for the sake of their dreams.  Or give up the dream in favor of their core beliefs.  As Jason puts it, "When you hold your dreams with an open hand, God doesn't have to pry your fingers loose when He takes them away."  Both brothers saw MLB careers crash due to injury and a network television program lost; but thy continue pressing on with confidence, courage an a can-do attitude.  The Benham brothers compiled the stories contained in the pages of their new book to demonstrate how to face your fears, die to your dreams, and live powerfully for a greater cause.
     I have mixed feelings about this book.  First of all, it's nothing new.  My husband and I have been living powerfully and goal-oriented for over a decade.  But, I do think that this book would be beneficial for two kinds of people.  Either people that love and have followed the Benham brothers careers and are interested in hearing them drone on about their ins and outs with fame, or a person stalled out trying to keep a dream alive that isn't working anymore.  I found the book to be a little self-serving and without much meat or deep content.  That's my opinion on it.  It would be best for older teens or adults, and I believe men and women alike could enjoy the book.  Am I recommending it, no. 

(I received this book free from BookLook Bloggers as a request to review this book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Summer.... 

Praying Over God's Promises by Thomas R. Yeakley

Lethal Beauty Book Review

 

Book Review of Lethal Beauty

by Lis Wiehl
with April Henry

"A Mia Quinn Mystery"


REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

     Another installment in the Mia Quinn mystery series is here! I was so excited when this book came out.  Were you?  You should be, since Lis Wiehl doesn't disappoint. This book continues to expand the story behind Kenny Zhong who we met before in the series.  Kenny has become involved in the snakeheads, who organize human trafficking from China.  A string of murder and crime unfold for Mia Quinn, and it's her job to find out what connects to Zhong and what does not.
     In true Lis Wiehl fashion, the story is deftly crafted from the perspective of a prosecutor and homicide detective. I learn so much about crime and the legal system within each of her books, that I'm always kept fascinated.   It's a regular Wiehl thriller with plenty of twists and surprises.  Spoiler: Bo Yee's character is pretty cool.  I would recommend this book to older teens and up.  There is mention of brothel's, rape, murder, human trafficking, seduction and other adult topics.  All of the topics are issues our country faces daily, and are written in a matter-of-fact way.  But proceed with caution if these issues are upsetting to you.  On the other hand, this book is another top-notch mystery from Lis Wiehl that I am glad I didn't miss.

(I received this book free from BookLook Bloggers as a request to review this book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Spring.... 

Praying Over God's Promises by Thomas R. Yeakley

Whatever the Cost by David and Jason Benham

Frederick Book Review

Book Review of Frederick

by Frederick Ndabaramiye
with Amy Parker

"A Story of Boundless Hope"


REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

     I think I sat at my desk for ten entire minutes just trying to find the words that explain this book.  I can't.  Nothing that I will write here will ever do justice to the book, or the words and life story of Frederick Ndabaramiye.  Frederick lived the Rwanda genocide, and almost died there too.  The sacrifice the genocide forced upon him was to take his hands.  I do not want to reveal the atrocities and horrors that are within the first chapters of this book; since I likely would walk away from this blog post and not relive with him again the heinous details. We all watched from our cozy American couches as the genocide unfolded on our televisions and then went about our daily lives without a scratch.  Yet this encounter, through Frederick's first hand engagement with the surrounding death and massacre, will stop you in your tracks and you will not be the same. 
     Yet, through it all, God prevails and His healing for the people of Rwanda will not go unsatisfied.  Frederick becomes a most willing vessel for God's work and restoration.  Not only does Frederick bring healing to his own country, but to people all over the world that encounter him.  His brave and boundless spirit will entreat your soul to push on and hold you up.  If you only read one book this year, please read this one.  It will change you and it will scathe your heart and mind desperately urging you to become better, stronger, work harder, love deeper.  I recommend this book for mature teens (spoiler: the detail of death, rape and mutilation is explicit) and any adult.  This book should be read in every school and home as a history of beautiful and healing Rwanda.

(I received this book free from BookLook Bloggers as a request to review this book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Spring.... 

 Double Cross by DiAnn Mills

Lethal Beauty by Lis Wiehl

Price of Privilege Book Review

Book Review of Price of Privilege

by Jessica Dotta


REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

This is the third installment of the Price of Privilege Series by new author Jessica Dotta, who has a clear fancy of the Regency to Edwardian era of the United Kingdom's history.  If you are even mildly entertain by Downton Abbey, then you will revel in this series.  I came in on the third book, with no back story from book one and two at all.  I wondered if I would be lost in the story, but it seems each book stands on it's own.  Dotta writes with the true British style weaving the sacred mix of dry comedy and drama.  It seems Julia (our lead) is in a tangled web of manipulation from Chance Macy, and she will have to break free of the scandal, ploys, lies and deceit that snarl her life. Of course the era in which Julia is living makes her the height of impropriety. I admit that without reading the first two installments, I found the first half of the book to trawl about here and there. I had no back story information, and Julia is completely dramatic on all accounts in proper Brontë pattern.  Near the end of the book is when the cat comes out of the bag and you will need your embroidered hankie and a good cuppa.  Dotta is a fantastic author, and I will now go back and read the first two books which are awaiting me in my Kindle.  I will also add her to my "authors to watch" list for her next novel. 

(I received this book free from Tyndale Blog Network as a request to review this book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Winter.... 

Frederick by Frederick Ndabaramiye

 Double Cross by DiAnn Mills

Home For Christmas Book Review

 

Book Review of Home For Christmas

by Various Authors


REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

      Yes, I am aware that we are way past Christmas, but I didn't receive this book to review until well after the holidays.  At any rate, this review will be quite simple.  I did not enjoy this book.  I really thought I would, as I am a nostalgic sap.  Yet, this book bored me to pieces, and I found very little that I liked about the book at all. This book is a compilation of twenty kind of short stories about the meaning of Christmas from various authors including: Pearl Buck, Rebecca Caudill, Ruth Sawyer, Elizaebth Goudge, Selma Lagerlöf and Henry van Dyke.  You may find the stories charming and bring holiday warmth to your soul.  But, I just couldn't get on that train.  You will also find some old favorites like The Christmas Rose and The Other Wise Men.  But the one I liked the best was No Room In The Inn and I believe I would read it over and again.  If you are keen on the old European type Christmas stories and lore,  you may enjoy this book.

(I received this book free from Handlebar and Plough Publishing as a request to review this book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Winter.... 

Price of Privilege by Jessica Dotta 

Frederick by Frederick Ndabaramiye

Motherless Book Review

Book Review of Motherless

by Erin Healy


REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

      I chose to read this book because I really enjoyed Afloat by the same author, Erin Healy.  She delivered again with Motherless.  This book is written from the vantage point of a dead parent (I will not share which) watching the lies they left behind unravel in front of their children.  Secrets from the past will find their way back to the people they are kept from.  During the course of this long novel, the finger will be pointed to blame all of the characters at one time of the other.  You really will be shocked in the end to find out who is at fault for the children growing up motherless, and how people will hold the blame for things for years that they never  did.  Healy stepped the premise of this book up, when writing from the view point of the dead, watching the world go by.  I think it's a daring and challenging way to write a book, and Healy doesn't disappoint.  Also, Healy does an excellent job with character development, and brings the past and present to the forefront on each character.  I would recommend this book to adult men and women 16 years old and up. 

(I received this book free from BookLook Bloggers as a request to review this book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Winter.... 

Price of Privilege by Jessica Dotta 

Home For Christmas by Various Authors

Frederick by Frederick Ndabaramiye

Wisdom of the Sadhu Book Review

Book Review of Wisdom of the Sadhu

"Teachings of Sundar Singh"

REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

    Known as India's most famous convert to Christianity, Sundar Singh, loved Jesus and devoted his life to knowing and following him.  Singh left his home at the age of 16 to become a sadhu (a wandering holy man).  Through his drifting existence, his parables became legends and very popular.  This book is a collection of anecdotes, sayings, parables and meditations - which culminates in the best of Sundar Singh's teachings.
    I did appreciate this books as I read through it.  The reader must note that Singh is through and through from India, and his teachings are distinctly Indian idiom. You must look deeply and thoughtfully past the India of the words, and into the heart of the Gospels.  Singh was an incredibly deep thinker; yet the simplest of things like watching hungry birds, brought about insight into God's presence like I have never considered it before.  Reading his works will not only allow you to think of God, the Gospels and Jesus in a different light, but will open your spiritual eyes to new understanding about yourself.  I recommend this book to adults who are open to experience something new and afresh that is far from our western thinking. 

(I received this book free from HandleBar Central as a request to review this book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Fall.... 

Motherless by Erin Healy

Price of Privilege by Jessica Dotta 

 

A Robertson Family Christmas Book Review

 

Book Review of A Robertson Family Christmas

  by Miss Kay Robertson
with Travis Thrasher
"The crazy story of one troubled teen who finds the true meaning 
of Christmas where he least expects it."


REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

    For all of you Duck Dynasty fans out there - you will just love this little novella from Miss Kay Robertson.  It has all the charm and nuttiness that the Robertson clan can bring.  The book is based on the real Robertson family Christmas traditions; and will give you a window into the heartwarming and sometimes-zany moments shared by their family.  This Christmas story opens with a  Chicago-based teen, Hunter, winning a Christmas week with the Robertson's in Louisiana.  Hunter reluctantly takes the trip.  From duck hunting, to present opening, and meeting Phil, Hunter does it all.  You'll have to read the book to see what happens to Hunter.
     This is a simple and charming read from the matriarch of the Duck Commander family.  There is nothing complicated about her Christmas message.  Just the truth and simplicity of Jesus' birth, and the true meaning of Christmas.  If you can't get enough of the Robertson's you will love this book.  If you are looking for a good Christmas read by a strong author, this may not be for you.  Although Miss Kay Robertson brings her deep Southern charisma to the book, the story-line is a bit cliche and predictable.  I would recommend this book for anyone 12 and up.  Warning: There is a mention of Hunter smoking marijuana in the Chapter 33.  This is a fun little read for the holidays that will  bring warmth and cheer to your heart.

I AM GIVING AWAY THREE COPIES OF THIS BOOK DURING THE MONTH OF OCTOBER - CLICK HERE TO ENTER TO WIN! 

(I received this book free from Tyndale Blog Network as a request to review this book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Fall.... 

 The Book of Revelation Made Clear by Tim LaHaye and Timothy E. Parker

Wisdom of the Sadhu by Sundar Singh

Raising a Mondern Day Princess by Pam Farrel and Doreen Hanna

No Longer a Slumdog by K. P. Yohannan 

Life Before the Lottery Book Review

 

Book Review of Life Before the Lottery

  by Ashlee Bratton
"The 30x30 List...Living Beyond the Bucket"


REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

    Ashlee Bratton and I know each other through a "friend-of-a-friend," and she sent me a signed copy of her book to review here for you.  After receiving the book in the mail, while flipping through the pages, I was immediately hooked.  This book is Fantastic!  (Note the capital F).  First of all, Bratton's writing has ease of reading.  The words flow with mastery and straightforwardness.  Her humor, emotion, and quirky spirit shines through her work.  So let's talk details: This book was written to inspire others to get moving on their life and dreams, through the author's own personal story of living out her own 30x30 list.  Waiting for the winning lottery ticket is a waste of time and your life.  This book will teach you how to "live beyond the bucket," so your dreams don't have to wait.  She touches on tithing, God's timing, facing tough obstacles, really bad days of loss, enjoying others company, learning to enjoy yourself, and so much more.  All through the book she has included "list-making" hints, fill in the blank questionnaires so you can get serious with your goals, and awe-inspiring quotes from others.  Oh, and there are great pictures too!  This book will help you on your way to making your own 30x30 list; or if you are like me (and over 30), your 40x40 list, or beyond. 
     I finished reading this book on a ship heading back from the white sandy beaches of Mexico this week.  That night, I sat on the deck under the moonlight and officially started my 40x40 list.  It was exciting to see my goals, innermost desires and thoughts come alive on paper.  I'm feverish to begin my 40x40 journey, and see where it takes me.  What a special gift this life is.  Let's not waste a moment of it.
     I recommend this book for anyone ages 13+, and every single person you know who is in a slump and needs motivation to begin living life with purpose.  At $15, this book is a steal and a great gift idea for Christmas.  

(I received this book free from Ashlee Bratton as a request to review this book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Fall.... 

A Robertson Family Christmas by Ms. Kay Robertson

 The Book of Revelation Made Clear by Tim LaHaye and Timothy E. Parker

Wisdom of the Sadhu by Sundar Singh

Raising a Mondern Day Princess by Pam Farrel and Doreen Hanna

No Longer a Slumdog by K. P. Yohannan 

A Robertson Family Christmas Book Giveaway!

 

TO GET YOU IN THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT, IN THE MONTH OF OCTOBER WE WILL BE HOLDING A BOOK GIVEAWAY - FEATURING A ROBERTSON FAMILY CHRISTMAS  BY MISS KAY ROBERTSON, OF THE FAMED DUCK DYNASTY TELEVISION SERIES.  I WILL HAVE THREE COPIES TO GIVEAWAY (INSIDE THE US).

A bit about the book:

Hunter Clarke wanted one thing for Christmas: to spend it with his dad and his brother. He misses being included in any guy trips since his parents divorced and he went to live with his mom. So he’s less than happy when his mother tells him that he won a contest to spend Christmas in West Monroe, Louisiana, with a family named the Robertsons. For some reason, they’re supposed to be a big deal. How did he win a contest he didn’t enter? Besides, he’s never heard of them and sure doesn’t want to spend Christmas in a swamp with a bunch of strangers.

Korie Robertson is excited to open her heart and home to Hunter and show him what the Christmas season looks like for the Robertson family. And like it or not, Hunter experiences it firsthand. From duck-hunting disasters with the bearded guys, to learning to cook with Miss Kay, Hunter quickly discovers what it’s like to live with this boisterous, yet loving family. Putting on his headphones and ignoring them is not an option. Before long, Hunter begins to let his guard down. But with Christmas and the end of his trip fast approaching, will it be too little, too late? Or will Hunter be open to the greatest gift of all?

HERE'S HOW TO WIN!

During the month of October (2014) post a comment here and tell me your favorite Christmas tradition.  Then, share this giveaway link on Facebook (using the Facebook icon underneath the video below).  Enter as many times as you'd like, there is no limit to the entries.  Three entries will be drawn at random on November 1, 2014.  The book will be shipped to the three random picks. 

Here's the whole clan to get you in that Christmas spirit, and remind you of their crazy antics...

The Healing Quilt Book Review

Book Review of The Healing Quilt

  by Wanda E. Brunstetter
"Return of the Half-Stitched Amish Quilting Club"


REVIEW BY:C. Szymoniak

     I read this book for my daughter's blog, and this is "my kind of reading."  I loved the book because it exemplified all the healing God can do in people's lives just by the little things we do, the acts of kindness, a listening ear, and encouraging one another.  I also enjoyed the snippets of Scripture that are interlaced throughout the story.  Emma and Lamar Miler are living in a winter home in Sarasota, Florida.  As usual, Emma brings her quilting supplies and begins to offer classes.  Wounded and hurting people from all walks of life come to the classes.  Through  Emma's tender hand, and loving, encouraging spirit, healing is brought to her students.  People facing illness, hard knocks, and more, Emma loves them, even when romance is thrown in the mix.  I would recommend this read for women ages 13 and up.  This is a beautiful story of healing and encouragement and quilting!

(I received this book free from Handlebar Marketing Blog Network as part of their blogging program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Fall.... 

A Robertson Family Christmas by Ms. Kay Robertson

A Deadly Business Book Review

Book Review of A Deadly Business

  by Lis Wiehl
"A Mia Quinn Mystery"


REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

     You already know I love, love, love anything from Lis Wiehl.  She's my favorite modern thriller author, and this new book doesn't displease.  A Deadly Business picks up where A Matter of Trust left off.  Right from the beginning, Mia Quinn is physically attacked in the courtroom, making your heart pound.  She is then thrust into a new case involving minors, in which she spends countless hours deliberating if they should be charged as juveniles or adults.  The pros and cons of both sides, will keep you guessing.  In the midst of all of this, sidekick detective Charlie Carlson brings to light that Mia's dead husband may have been murdered.  There is scandal, mayhem and intrigue, in true Wiehl style. 

     I love all of her books, and this one is no different.  She left a good cliffhanger on where Mia's love interest will go in the next installment.  This book will keep you on the edge of your seat, as her books always do.  I recommend this book for 14 years old and up, as there is violence, attempted murder, euthanasia, murder, and prostitution mentioned.  It's a quick and easy read for the mystery-lover in all of us.

(I received this book free from BookLook Blog Network as part of their blogging program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.") 

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Fall.... 

The Healing Quilt by Wanda Brunstetter

The Confession by Robert Whitlow

A Robertson Family Christmas by Ms. Kay Robertson