THE CSB NOTETAKING BIBLE

CSB Notetaking Bible, Sage Cloth Over Board by CSB Bibles by Holman

The CSB Notetaking Bible is designed to enhance personal Bible study as well as preparation for teaching and preaching. This Bible contains a single-column setting, and abundant space is provided with a 1.75 inch notetaking space on each page to make observations, record insights, raise questions, and suggest to yourself additional exploration of the text.



Features inlcude: Smyth-sewn binding, Presentation page, single-column text, 1.75 inch margins for notetaking, 8-point type, One-year Bible Reading Plan, Concordance, Full-color maps, and more.

The CSB Notetaking Bible features the highly reliable, highly readable text of the Christian Standard Bible (CSB), which stays as literal as possible to the Bible’s original meaning without sacrificing clarity. The CSB’s optimal blend of accuracy and readability makes Scripture more moving, more memorable, and more motivating to read and share with others.

I received the Sage Cloth over Board edition, which is a hard-cover Bible with some beautiful artwork on the cover. However, the hard-cover isn’t so stiff. It is a good size for carrying and for writing notes in. I liked the size of the margins. 

With 1.75-inch margins for taking notes, the fact that this is a single-column Bible makes so much more sense than double-column notetaking Bibles where is just not really enough space for that to be practical. I love margins that are wide enough to take notes in at church or even for my own personal Bible study and devotional time. I also liked that there are no , is no footnotes and reference marks in this Bible. 

I also liked the concordance, which, for a smaller Bible, is pretty big. It is very nice and user friendly.

The maps located in the back are also a very nice feature, and very colorful making them much easier to understand.

There is a year-long reading plan. A reading plan allows the reader to go through the Bible in one year. The reading plan is a seven-day per week plan with the first day being starting in Psalms. The rest of the week is two to four chapters from the Old Testament along with a smaller reading from the New Testament, taking you through both the Old and New Testaments once a year.  

  The CSB Notetaking Bible is an excellent Bible for both personal devotions and church use. This would be a great Bile to use for a Bible study where you can write your own study notes. I highly recommend the CSB Notetaking Bible to anyone from teens to adults.

 Disclaimer: This book was sent to me for a review by BHbloggers.com (B&H Publishing and LifeWay). 

In This Moment

From #1 New York Times bestselling author Karen Kingsbury comes a brand-new Baxter Family novel about a beloved high school principal who starts a Bible Study to improve the lives of his struggling students, only to become the national focus of a controversial lawsuit.

Hamilton High Principal Wendell Quinn is tired of the violence, drug abuse, teen pregnancies, and low expectations at his Indianapolis school. A single father of four, Quinn is a Christian and a family man. He wants to see change in his community, so he starts a voluntary after-school Bible Study and prayer program. He knows he is risking his job by leading the program, but the high turnout at every meeting encourages him.

A year later, violence and gang activity are down, test scores are up, and drug use and teen pregnancy have plummeted. The program is clearly working—until one parent calls the press. Now Quinn faces a lawsuit that could ruin everything.

With a storm of national attention and criticism, Quinn is at a crossroads—he must choose whether to cave in and shut down the program or stand up for himself and his students. The battle comes with a high cost, and Quinn wants just one attorney on his side for this fight: Luke Baxter. In This Moment is an inspiring, relevant story about the nuances of religious freedom and how a group of determined people just might restore the meaning of faith in today’s culture.

I love reading about the Baxters. They have become like family to me. There is no need to read the previous Baxter novels before reading this one as In This Moment begins with an introduction to the family. You’ll see brief updates about the family throughout the book, but it’s done well and readers who aren’t familiar won’t feel lost. In This Moment is very timely with the topic of Religious freedom. This is something we are all going to have to take a stand for.

I enjoyed reading this book and look forward to the next Karen Kingsbury book.

I received this book from the author but was not required to write a positive review.

Whisper

The best-selling author of Circle Maker, which helped over 2 million people learn to talk to God, now helps readers learn how to listen to God.

The voice that spoke the cosmos into existence is the same voice that parted the Red sea, and made the sun stand still in the midday sky. One day, this voice will make all things new, but it’s also speaking to you now!

That voice is God’s voice, and what we’ve learned from Scripture is that He often speaks in a whisper. Not to make it difficult to hear Him, but to draw us close.

Many people have a tough time believing God still speaks. Sure, in ancient times and in mysterious ways, God spoke to His people, but is He still speaking now?

Mark Batterson certainly believes so. And he wants to introduce you to the seven love languages of God; each of them unique and entirely divine. Some of them you might suspect but others will surprise you.

By learning to tune in to and decipher each language, you’ll be able to hear His guidance in simple as well as life-altering choices. God is actively speaking through: Scripture, Desires, Doors, Dreams, People, Promptings, and Pain. Batterson gives you the tools you need to unlock each of these languages.

God’s whisper can answer your most burning questions, calm your deepest fears, and fulfill your loftiest dreams.

Discover how simple it is to hear God’s voice in every aspect of your life!

He’s speaking, make sure you know how to listen!

I enjoyed reading this book. God wants us to hear His voice. He longs for us to have an imtimate relationship with Him. I enjoyed the stories that mark shared.

Disclaimer: "I was provided a free copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own."

Dangerous Illusions

Trish Bailey is on overload trying to deal with a demanding job, an ailing mother, and a healing heart. When a series of unsettling memory lapses leads to a tragic death--and puts Trish under police scrutiny--her world is once again thrown into turmoil.

Detective Colin Flynn isn't certain what to think of the facts he uncovers during his investigation. Did Trish simply make a terrible mistake or is there more to the case than meets the eye? As he searches for answers, disturbing information begins to emerge--and if the forces at work are as evil as he suspects, the situation isn't just dangerous . . . it's deadly.

Bestselling and award-winning author Irene Hannon captures readers with a mind-bending story that will have them doubling back to retrace their steps--and figure out what they missed!

 Irene gives us readers bits and pieces of her mystery puzzle and makes us feel like we are "behind the scenes" and "in the know" on a real life crime scene. I so enjoyed reading this book. This is the first book in the Code of Honor series. I am glad that there are more to come. Irene develops such wonderful characters that we care about and seem as if they are people we could meet in real life. She also creates unique villains, with very real motivations and drives that make them even scarier because they could be people we could encounter in real life. Irene is a very gifted writer.

Daring to Hope

How do you hold on to hope
when you don’t get the ending
you asked for?

When Katie Davis Majors moved to Uganda, accidentally founded a booming organization, and later became the mother of thirteen girls through the miracle of adoption, she determined to weave her life together with the people she desired to serve. But joy often gave way to sorrow as she invested her heart fully in walking alongside people in the grip of poverty, addiction, desperation, and disease.

After unexpected tragedy shook her family, for the first time Katie began to wonder, Is God really good? Does He really love us? When she turned to Him with her questions, God spoke truth to her heart and drew her even deeper into relationship with Him.

Daring to Hope is an invitation to cling to the God of the impossible—the God who whispers His love to us in the quiet, in the mundane, when our prayers are not answered the way we want or the miracle doesn’t come. It’s about a mother discovering the extraordinary strength it takes to be ordinary. It’s about choosing faith no matter the circumstance and about encountering God’s goodness in the least expected places.

Though your heartaches and dreams may take a different shape, you will find your own questions echoed in these pages. You’ll be reminded of the gifts of joy in the midst of sorrow. And you’ll hear God’s whisper: Hold on to hope. I will meet you here.

If you loved Kisses from Katie, you'll love Daring to Hope. Katie pours her heart and soul onto the pages about her family, life and faith. his is a wonderful book as Katie brings us up to date of her life in Uganda. She shares not only the successes and happy times but also the heartbreak and struggles of trying to see God in the tragedies. Daring to Hope addresses the hard questions that we often avoid as Christians: Where is God in the hard times? How could a good God let this happen? Katie doesn't try to gloss over or cover up her questions and raw feelings. She perseveres through the pain and lands solidly on her faith in the One who has called her and sustains her. Her words continually point us back to the only One who can bring us true hope!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.

He Holds My Hand: Experiencing God's Presence and Protection

Know without a doubt that God is with you and stands ready to protect and guide you. He holds your hand, and He won’t let go.

When Carol Kent’s son was sentenced to life in prison without parole, Carol was consumed with grief, sadness, and despair. She was distraught wondering why God permitted this to happen. She had prayed for her son since he was a small child. He had been raised with biblical principles and daily prayer. As Carol tried to make sense of everything, she couldn’t help asking, Where’s God when it hurts so much?

In the middle of her sorrow, Carol turned to the place where she had always gone for comfort―the Bible. She was desperate to hear God’s voice. She soon discovered that the best way for her to “listen” to His voice was to meditate on Scripture and then write out what she believed He was saying. She wrote it as if it was His prayer over her life, and it comforted her. It was as if He took her by the hand, as a father would guide a child, and He gently led her in the direction of unconditional love, renewed hope, and fresh faith.

He Holds My Hand is a page-per-day 365-day devotional. Based on Scripture, this devotional is written as if God the Father is speaking His words of comfort and protection directly over you.

Listen to God’s voice and put your hand in His. He is your Comforter, your Healer, your Teacher, and your Joy.

Remember He holds your hand, and He won’t let go.

In her latest book, He Holds My Hand, a devotional written during a time when Carol was desperate to hear from God and know that he was still there. When her only son was convicted of murder and sentenced to life without the possibility of parole, Carol knew that only God could comfort her.

During this time, the best way to hear for Carol to hear from God was to meditate on Scripture. From there she went on to write out what she believed was God’s prayer over her life. In so doing, she began to experience a renewed hope and a fresh faith.

The book is beautifully written with each day’s selection beginning with a quote, followed by a prayer, and then ending with a Scripture. Each day is filled with encouragement and brings the reminder that it is God who is with us in the midst of our difficulties and questions. It is He that holds our hand in every situation. Readers who love "Jesus Calling" will find this to be another devotional that they will love. 

 In exchange for my honest review, Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a complimentary copy of this book.

The Lifegiving Table: Nurturing Faith through Feasting, One Meal at a Time

Make your table a place where your family and friends long to be―where they will find rest, renewal, and a welcome full of love.

Beloved author Sally Clarkson (The Lifegiving Home, Own Your Life, Desperate) believes that meals lovingly served at home―and the time spent gathered together around the table―are a much-needed way to connect more deeply with our families and open our kids’ hearts. Food and faith, mingled in everyday life, become the combination for passing on God’s love to each person who breaks bread with us.

In The Lifegiving Table, Sally shares her own family stories, favorite recipes, and practical ideas to help you get closer to the people you love . . . and grow in faith together.

 This book is such an encouragement to me to take the time sit down to regular meals with my family) and engage in conversations that will draw each person to Christ. This book is full of practical suggestions for how to start conversations with my family and how to bless those at my table with a welcoming atmosphere and by my own attitude. The dining room table is a tool for life-giving discipleship and sharing the gospel with my family, friends, and strangers. Sally provides lots of ideas and recipes in the book. Love it. If you yearn for a table around which your family speaks freely, share deep thoughts and ask the big questions of life, faith and love, then I highly recommend this book. This is a must read for anyone wanting to establish a heart of discipleship in their home.

I received the first four chapters as part of the book launch team. As part of Tyndale’s Blogger Review program, I received a free copy of The Lifegiving Table in exchange for an honest review.

Fierce Hearted

A fiercehearted woman looks life in the face and says, "You can't beat me." She knows love is a risk but reaches out anyway. She chases Jesus with a tender, world-changing wildness. She never gives in, never gives up, and never lets go. Best of all, the potential to be a fiercehearted woman is inside each and every woman on earth.

In her most powerful book yet, beloved bestselling author Holley Gerth inspires her readers to become the stronger, braver, truer women they long to be by sharing personal stories of her own struggles and victories. As readers join Holley on this journey, they'll discover a freedom they never imagined could be theirs: the freedom to experience life, love, and faith to the fullest because fear can no longer hold them back.

For the woman who is restless or longing for more, Fiercehearted is an invitation to the life God has always meant for her to embrace.

No one can fight for our families in prayer like we can. We must not afraid to get on our knees before God and fight, to win our families to Christ or stand in and intercede for them. Prayer is our most powerful weapon. God longs to intercede for us.

Holly’s style of writing is very conversational- like. It’s warm and inviting like having a conversation with a friend in a coffee shop or at a kitchen table. She opens up deep, dark parts of her lives and invites the reader in.

**Disclosure**  This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author. All opinions are my own.

Why Motherhood Matters

Mama, Your Work Has Deep Worth

Do you ever wonder if your efforts as a mom make any difference?

Take heart. Whether you're struggling through sleepless nights with your toddler or endless battles with your teen, September McCarthy's story offers practical insights and powerful inspiration to encourage you on your own mothering journey.

As a mom for 25 years who continues to raise young children and love her young adults, September imparts words of wisdom and grace in key areas of Christian parenting, including...

faith—getting honest with your family about your need for Jesus

wellness—learning to take care of your kids...and yourself

education—raising a new generation with creativity and character

relationships—speaking to the heart of your children in unique ways

In these pages you'll find sweet anecdotes and gentle guidance for those moments you need both a breather and a lifeline. Motherhood is an incredible labor of love—and in the scope of eternity, it matters more than you know.

I love that September lays out the whys of motherhood. This is so important for moms to remember and keep in the forefront of their minds. Hard days and dark days will come. Reading this book is like having a mentor mom to come alongside you to cheer, encourage, instruct and gently correct you. What we do as moms matters and it's never too late to stop where we are and change direction. She is constantly pointing us back to God and the truth of His Word. As September says, "Motherhood is an incredible labor of love- and in the scope of eternity, it matters more than you know."

I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

IMAGINE... The Great Flood

IMAGINE...
The ocean swirled around the boy and pulled him down with unrelenting power. Heavy water churned and tugged at his flailing body like unseen hands yanking him into the watery depths. The fight was finally over. Even though he’d tried to stand up to the enemy, the waves were about to swallow him whole.

The last thing ten-year-old Corey remembers (before the world as he knew it disappeared) was the searing pain in his head after falling while chasing his dog Molly into the woods. What happens next can't be explained as Corey wakes up and finds himself face-to-face with not one but two lions!

Join Corey and experience the excitement. . .the wonder. . . the adventure. . .as the epic story of Noah’s ark comes to life.

Imagine. . .The Great Flood is the first release in an exciting, brand-new epic adventure series for kids ages 8 to 12 written by schoolteacher and missionary, Matt Koceich. The Imagine series brings the Bible to life for today's kids as they ponder what it would be like to live through a monumental biblical event.

This book focuses on a well-loved story from the Bible. The book is a pretty accurate account of the Biblical story. The book covers things kids will be able to relate to such as moving, making decisions, thinking about others, forgiveness, and knowing God. It is filled with mystery, action, adventure and Biblical truths! Each chapter ends with a little cliff hanger that makes you want to keep reading. It also makes you think about the oppositions and problems that Noah and his sons may have encountered while obeying God. 

I enjoyed this book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

#truth

This daily devotional from Josh McDowell unpacks spiritual truths that will inspire, challenge, and fuel your soul every day of the year--from January 1 to December 31.
Practical and relevant, each month of devotional readings shares a common theme—

January: THE TRUTH THAT GOD EXISTS
February: THE TRUTH ABOUT GOD'S WORD
March: THE TRUTH ABOUT ORIGINAL SIN
April: THE TRUTH ABOUT GOD BECOMING HUMAN
May: THE TRUTH ABOUT CHRIST'S ATONEMENT FOR SIN
June: THE TRUTH ABOUT JUSTIFICATION THROUGH FAITH IN JESUS CHRIST
July: THE TRUTH ABOUT LIVING THE TRANSFORMED LIFE
August: THE TRUTH ABOUT JESUS' BODILY RESURRECTION
September: THE TRUTH ABOUT THE TRINITY
October: THE TRUTH ABOUT GOD'S KINGDOM
November: THE TRUTH ABOUT THE CHURCH
December: THE TRUTH ABOUT CHRIST'S RETURN.

Truth Is. . . 365 Youth Devotions Connecting Life and Faith will lead you to understand the truths of God and how living them out is beneficial in your everyday life.

I like how the devotions are organized by a different topic each month. It gives a nice flow to the book. Josh McDowell starts with the truth that God exists, to Christ's Atonement for our sins, and finishes up with the truth of God's Return.  Each day has a Bible verse that reinforces that month’s theme, then has a short section engaging in thoughts or example and end with a Truth is section and short prayer. I would recommend this book to teens. I think they will really enjoy it.

 I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.                     

A Treasure Concelaed

Emily Carver wants a home where she can put down roots instead of following her gold-hungry father from one mining camp to another. She also longs for tenderness and love, both of which are missing in her life. Yet when she realizes she's losing her heart to the intriguing new man in camp, she fiercely fights her feelings, afraid that love will only result in disappointment and heartache.

Caeden Thibault, a young geologist, comes to Montana to catalog minerals indigenous to the state. He's a serious and guarded young man trying to escape the pain of his past. He has avoided all romantic entanglements, fearing he might become like his abusive father. But something about Emily Carver has caught his attention, something he never expected. . . .

Will these two broken souls allow God to bring healing and hope to their hurting hearts?

If you have any interest in history or gold mines, this book is definitely for you. There is just enough suspense to keep you turning pages and just enough romance to keep the romantic at heart satisfied. This book is the first in a series of books called the Sapphire Brides. Tracie sets the story for A Treasure Concealed in beautiful Montana during the aftermath of the gold rush days.

 Tracie Peterson did a wonderful job in describing gold mining life in Montana. I could picture the town, the people, the Carver’s home, and the difficulties these people faced. I really enjoyed this book. I think you will like it if you enjoy historical fiction.

**I received a copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.**

The Atonement

A Must-Have Novel from the #1 Name in Amish Fiction

The mistakes of the past haunt Lucy Flaud, who years ago stopped attending the activities for courting-age young people in her hometown of Bird-in-Hand. Now twenty-five and solidly past the age of Amish courtship, Lucy has given up any hope of marriage, instead focusing her efforts on volunteering in both the Plain and fancy communities of Lancaster County. Yet no matter how hard Lucy strives, she feels uncertain that she'll ever find redemption.

Dale Wyeth has a deep mistrust of modern-day "advances" and the dependency they create. The young Englisher's interest in living off the grid is fueled further when he meets Christian Flaud, Lucy's father. Dale appreciates the self-sufficient ways of the Old Order Amish, and Christian invites him to learn more about them by staying at the family farm.

As Christian and Dale grow closer, developing a father-son rapport, Lucy begins to question what Dale's being there might mean for her. Could God be testing her? Or is it possible that even the most unworthy heart--and two people from very different walks of life--can somehow find a new beginning?

This is a heart-warming story about love and forgiveness and being able to forgive one's self.  This is a gripping story about the struggles of a young Amish woman, Lucy, who made some bad choices in the past and appears to be unable to move past the consequences of those choices. Almost every relationship Lucy has is affected by her inability to get past her past. I felt that the different elements of forgiveness - forgiving the 'other person', forgiving yourself, and, most importantly, dealing with the 'wrongs' you feel God dealt you - were well-developed and very relate able.

I heartily recommend this book!

I received this complimentary book from Bethany House Publishing for review purposes.

A Haven on Orchard Lane

Much-Loved Lawana Blackwell Delivers Another Charming Victorian-Era Tale

In difficult circumstances, Charlotte Ward, once a famed stage actress, tries to restart her career--only to experience disaster. Against her better judgment, her estranged daughter, Rosalind, comes to her mother's rescue and moves her to a quiet English coastal village.

Charlotte is grateful to get to know Rosalind after years apart. As one who has regrets about her own romantic past, it's a joy for Charlotte to see love blossom for her daughter. For Rosalind, however, it's time away from teaching--and now she must care for the mother who wasn't there for her. And what could be more complicated than romance?

Together, mother and daughter discover that healing is best accomplished when they focus less on themselves and more on the needs of others.

This is a novel that will show forgiveness and God's love. The main character goes through a lot and uses her situations to give very good advice to younger ladies.  I think this is the first book I have read by this author and I look forward to reading more books by this author. The story takes place in 19th century England so this would be a perfect book for those who enjoy historical fiction.

A Haven on Orchard Lane is the tale of 50-year-old woman who thinks she has aged beyond usefulness and wishes, at one point, that she could just die. Can she find life again and learn that when bad things happen, good can arise from the ashes of her younger soul? Will Charlotte’s new home on Orchard Lane be the haven that gives her a new life with a reluctant daughter? Can the daughter build a relationship with her mother and still have a life of her own? Read the book to find out.

 I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

   

Treasured Grace

Tracie Peterson Begins Compelling New Series Set on the 1840s Frontier

Grace Martindale has known more than her share of hardship. After her parents died, raising her two younger sisters became her responsibility. A hasty marriage to a minister who is heading to the untamed West seemed like an opportunity for a fresh start, but a cholera outbreak along the wagon trail has left Grace a widow in a very precarious position.

Having learned natural remedies and midwifery from her mother, Grace seeks an opportunity to use her skills for the benefit of others. So when she and her sisters arrive at the Whitman mission in "Oregon Country," she decides to stay rather than push on.

With the help of Alex Armistead, a French-American fur trapper, Grace begins to provide care for her neighbors, including some of the native populace. But not everyone welcomes her skills--or her presence--and soon Grace finds herself and those she loves in more danger than she imagined possible.

Before reading this book it would be good to read up on Whiteman Mission and the massacre of 1847 It will help you understand and fill in the missing details so you can enjoy the story more. You will get to know and see photographs the many real people that are also characters in Tracie Peterson’s rendition of the lives of Native Americans and Pioneer Americans, their struggles, their hopes, their deaths, their loves, and their faith. Online you get photos and drawings of the mission, from 1847 and today. It is now a national historical site. . Prayer and faith are prevalent themes throughout the book. It emphasizes how important it is to have faith that God is there for you in the bad times and the good.

I enjoyed the book and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical fiction.

This book was given to me by BETHANY HOUSE PUBLISHERS per their blogger program.

A Beauty Refined

Tracie Peterson Delivers Bestselling Historical Fiction with Romance and Adventure

Phoebe Von Bergen is excited to accompany her father when he travels from Germany to purchase sapphires in Montana. Little does she know that her father's plans--for the gemstones and his daughter--are not what they seem.

Ian Harper, a lapidary working in Helena, finds the young woman staying at the Broadwater Hotel more than a little intriguing. Yet the more he gets to know her, the more he realizes that her family story is based on a lie--a lie she has no knowledge of. And Ian believes he knows the only path that will lead her to freedom.

Meeting Ian has changed everything. Phoebe is determined to stay in America, regardless of her father's plans. But she may not be prepared for the unexpected danger as the deception begins to unravel.

This is the second book in the series Sapphire Brides, but these novels stand alone. I enjoyed the characters and the plot. Tracie always has such interesting characters and this novel was no exception. "A Beauty Refined" included some interesting history. You won't be disappointed!  This book deals with serious issues including honesty, betrayal, deceit, love and faith. This is a fast moving story with enough twists, turns and surprises to hold the reader's attention to the end. If you enjoy historical fiction, you will love this book!

I received a complimentary book from Bethany House publishers in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Where Courage Calls (Return to the Canadian West Book #1): A When Calls the Heart Novel

Her courage and her heart will be tested in ways she never expected...

Beth Thatcher has spent her entire life in the safe, comfortable world of her family, her friends, and the social outings her father's wealth provides. But Beth is about to leave it all behind to accept a teaching position in the rugged foothills of western Canada. Inspired by her aunt Elizabeth, who went west to teach school several years ago, and gently encouraged by her father, Beth resolves to put her trust in God and bravely face any challenge that comes her way.

But the conditions in Coal Valley are even worse than she'd feared. A recent mining accident has left the town grieving and at the mercy of the mining company. The children have had very little prior education, and many of the locals don't even speak English. There isn't even a proper schoolhouse. In addition, Beth's heart is torn between two young men--both Mounties, one a lifelong friend and the other a kind, quiet man who comes to her aid more than once.

Despite the many challenges, Beth is determined to make a difference in the rustic frontier town. But when her sister visits from the East, reminding her of all the luxuries she's had to give up, will Beth decide to return to her privileged life as soon as the school year is over?

This is a book of hardships that school teachers in remote areas at the turn of the century and more importantly of the hardships of the mining families. Their ability to persevere in the face of disaster is a true inspiration. We can learn a lot from their perseverance.

 I would recommend this book. It is filled with a bit of mystery, a little romance and a lot of love, faith, hope and inspiration. This book has something for everyone. If you’ve read and enjoyed the When Calls the Heart books, you’ll enjoy this. It is a standalone novel, as there are only passing references to the earlier books and locations, and this is set in a new time and place so you can enjoy the story without having read any of the other books.. 

I was given a complimentary copy to review by Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. My opinion is my own.

The Wish

A Compelling Story of Friendship from the Top Author in Amish Fiction

Leona Speicher got the "sister" she'd always dreamed of the day Gloria Gingerich and her family moved to Lancaster County Amish farmland. The Arkansas newcomers seem to be everything a devout Plain family should be, and Leona can't help comparing Gloria's engaging young parents to her own.

Leona's cousin shows a romantic interest in Gloria around the same time as Gloria's older brother expresses his fondness for Leona--it seems likely the two young women will marry into each other's families, remaining close friends for life. Thus, Leona is shocked when the Gingeriches suddenly pack up and disappear after being expelled from the church for reasons no one will discuss. Despite Leona's pleas, Gloria goes with them, leaving more than one broken heart behind.

When Gloria unexpectedly contacts Leona after a silence of several years, Leona makes up her mind to persuade her friend to return to Lancaster County and the Amish ways. Leona's fiancé, the deacon's son, is alarmed when Leona decides to go after Gloria. Will Leona's dearest wish lead to her own undoing?

Beverly Lewis was the first Amish writer I was introduced to. I love all of her books. I pass each book onto my mom to read.  This book focuses more on friendship, choices and realizing things may not always be like we think then it does romance. We all desire friendship but it doesn’t always look the way we think it should.  It can be hard to make the right decision/choice at times. I think this is something we can all relate to.

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I did receive this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review and am in no way obligated to write a positive one. 

From This Day Forward (Song of Blessing Book #4)

Deborah MacCallister, head nurse at the Blessing hospital, has loved Toby Valders since her school days, but she's had enough of their on-again, off-again relationship. Toby truly cares for Deborah, but he's never felt like he could commit to marriage or a family.

When Anton Genddarm, the new schoolteacher, comes to town, the young women of Blessing see a chance to force Toby's hand with a little strategic matchmaking. But real sparks fly between Deborah and Anton, and she finds herself in an even more complicated situation. The attention she gets from Anton makes Toby do some serious soul-searching, but is it too late?

Then Deborah receives an invitation to study the latest advances in nursing at a hospital in Chicago, and she faces a hard choice. To leave or stay? Should she give up on the dream of Toby and accept the interest of Anton?

Once again Lauraine Snelling does not disappoint with this new book. As with her entire Red River Valley series Lauraine makes you feel like the characters are people you would like to be friends with. Her characters seem like they truly are the people who homesteaded this region of North Dakota. I hope she will continue to tell the story of Ingeborg Bjorklund and all the other inhabitants of Blessing, North Dakota. I have fallen in love with her characters. Lauraine does an excellent job of fleshing out her characters so they seem real.

I highly recommend this book.I would recommend that you read the previous books in this series before you read this one.

I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher, Bethany House. The review is my own, honest opinion without any outside influences or requirements.

The Women of Easter: Encounter the Savior with Mary of Bethany, Mary of Nazareth, and Mary Magdalene

This Season of Grace,
Deepen Your Faith in God
Who So Loved the World
that He Gave Us His Son.

You’re about to meet three women named Mary, each of whom has a life-changing encounter with Jesus. Mary of Bethany prepares the way for the Lord’s burial when she anoints His feet and fills the air with her perfume. His mother, Mary of Nazareth, remains by His side from His first breath to His last, her loyalty unwavering. Mary Magdalene, delivered of seven demons, bravely supports her Teacher through His darkest hours, then proclaims the glorious news of His resurrection.

What a trio. What a Savior!

 Liz Higgs explores three women and how their lives changed because of Jesus. They all happen to be named Mary and each have a great story. This book is only 8 chapters long and with a study guide included at the back this is a tremendous resource for walking through the events leading up to Easter and experiencing the emotion of the occasion.

I loved this book and would highly recommend it.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Blogging for Books, as part of Waterbrook Multnomah’s Book Review Blogger Program. I was not required to write a review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

You Can Do This

I love Tricia's vulnerability in sharing. It is like sitting at the table of your best friend and sharing life together. Women spend so much of their life fighting against comparison, lack of boundaries, and other's opinions of ourselves. All of this steals our confidence. Somewhere along the way, we stopped listening to what and who God says we are and starting listening to what other people say we are. You Can Do This is a reminder of our role in encouraging and mentoring the women in our lives. I will be recommending this book to young women in my sphere of influence. This is a book I read and underlined a lot. Great job Tricia!

Distorted

Mallory Baldwin is a survivor. A former victim of human trafficking, she’s been given a second chance, yet not a night goes by that she doesn’t remember being a slave to weapons dealer Dante Torres. Despite being afraid of the dark and wary of strangers, Mallory is trying to rebuild her life by turning her tragedy into redemption.
To former Navy SEAL Tennyson Walker, Mallory seems nothing like the shattered woman he rescued two years ago, and he can’t help but be inspired by her strength and resilience. So when a stalker suddenly makes Mallory vulnerable once again, Tennyson steps up as her bodyguard to keep her safe.
Mallory and Tennyson’s mutual attraction can’t be ignored, but neither can Mallory’s suspicion that Tennyson is keeping a terrible secret about her past. As the nightmare closes in, it’s not only Mallory and Tennyson’s love that comes under fire but their very lives as well. Will their faith sustain them? Or will the darkness win once and for all?

I loved this book. It had just the right amount of suspense to keep me guessing to the end. The characters are well developed. This is a story of two broken people who loved and trusted God. It deals with the aftermath of human trafficking and learning to love again with a great mystery. I highly recommend this book.

I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

The Sacrament of Happy

Happiness is Scriptural and Lisa shows us this by using storytelling in her new book. This book is about finding happiness through God's love and abundant grace, with an emphasis on love, laughter, and family. Lisa Harper weaves in a Biblical basis for her findings and stories from her everyday life to show us how happiness can be achieved. God never promised a totally happy life on this earth. True happiness is found with God.
I enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it.

I received a free advance copy of this book as part of the launch team. All opinions are my own.

Messy Beautiful Friendship

I’ve found adult friendship to be much more complicated than the friendships of our youth. This book has opened my eyes to the many ways that my expectations and "wish-dreams" have gotten in the way of friendships that are right in front of me. Here are a couple of quotes from the book that really stood out to me:

“We are not guaranteed or entitled to heart friends. They are gifts of grace, and when we catch glimpses of sisterly love, we must receive it as such with deep gratitude.”

“… the goal of friendship is to secure ourselves to the sure, steadfast anchor of Christ and, while holding to that anchor, give and receive the gift of friendship as we have opportunity. The goal is to enjoy God together with others and, as we move through life, to sharpen and allow ourselves to be sharpened by friends. We imitate Jesus with one another, willing to face the stark realities and consequences of sin, all the while persevering in our efforts to offer love, grace, forgiveness, reconciliation, comfort, and care to one another. In doing so, we display to one another and the world how God loves and, through this, bring him glory. This is our destination, the point on the map we move toward: bringing God glory.” pg.39

“In our envy of other women and who they are and what they have, we have chosen not to celebrate them or allow them to get close. In our childishness, we’ve been inconsiderate in thinking that friendship is for us and about us and should be what we want. We’ve been inwardly critical, and outwardly too, though we might not have dared to address the person directly. We’ve been judgmental and partial and argumentative and a million other things that sting and divide. These are ashes of our own making.” pg. 59

“We are to observe our friends. What are her gifts? What stories has God written in her life that could become an impactful ministry to others? What lies and patterns of behavior are hindering her relationship with God? What does it seem God is trying to do in her life? As we observe, we use our words to confirm her gifts, exhort her to ministry, encourage her growth, and excite her as to what God is doing in her life. Our honey-words have the power to stir up love and good works in the lives of our friends.” pg. 132

This book has blessed, encouraged and challenged me in the way I think about friendships. This is such a helpful book and I highly recommend it.

Catch Somewhere

Megan Hall has written a great book that will be valuable to women and girls to read. This book tackles some tough subjects that teens today deal with in a deep and sensitive manner. It is a great reminder that there are so many teenagers who are hurting and who need someone to point them to Jesus. This book was a great read. I would highly recommend this book.