Saturday, October 27, 2018

He is Enough by Asheritah Ciuciu

He is Enough: Living in the Fullness of Jesus (A Study in Colossians) by [Ciuciu, Asheritah]
Here is the book summary:
Discover the Secret to a Full Life
We live in a world of scarcity. We say, “I don’t have enough time… maybe when we have more money… if only I had a little more help…” But Scripture says if we have Jesus, we have enough.
In this 6-week study of Colossians, Asheritah Ciuciu leads readers to discover the life-altering importance of Jesus’ sufficiency and sovereignty. And you don’t need hours a day to enjoy this Bible Study. Each day’s study contains two paths:
·        Snack on the Go: a bite-size morsel of truth to chew on throughout your busy day
·        FEAST: a dig-deep guide to maximizing the “meat” you’re getting out of your Bible study
·        PLUS! a supplemental "Serving and Leading" section that includes service challenges for making theory a reality
You can enjoy this study in whatever way works best for you. Discover the joy and freedom that abounds when we know deep in our hearts that Jesus truly is enough.

And now, my review:
As a woman who takes Bible Study seriously, it is refreshing to see this book come out!  This author has sent hours digging into the depths of His Word and helps us as readers to dig in as well.  She helps with offering different options to digging in.  You can go quick or you can go long.  She mentions word definitions and historical context.  She helps with ideas for application such as are there areas in your life that you haven’t believed that Christ is enough.  It’s not about having more knowledge alone from living it.  It’s about learning, understanding, applying, and sharing it with others.  It’s internal, powerful, and missional.  I can’t wait to read another by this author and highly recommend this book.  Because HE IS ENOUGH!   

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




The Love Letter by Rachel Hauck

The Love Letter: New from the New York Times bestselling author of The Wedding Dress by [Hauck, Rachel]

Here is the book summary:
Romance has never been actress Chloe Daschle’s forte—in life or on screen. But everyone knows who to call for a convincing death scene . . . and it might be killing her career.
When Chloe is given a peek at the script for an epic love story, she decides to take her destiny into her own hands and request an audition for the lead female role, Esther Kingsley. The compelling tale, inspired by family lore and a one-page letter from the colonial ancestor of scriptwriter Jesse Gates, just might break her out of this career-crippling rut. Jesse would rather write about romance than live through it after his past relationship ended in disaster. But once on-set together, the chemistry between Jesse and his leading lady is hard to deny.
Centuries earlier, in the heart of the Revolutionary War, Hamilton Lightfoot and Esther Longfellow wrote their saga off the silver screen. Esther’s Loyalist father opposes any relationship with Hamilton, but Esther must face her beloved father’s disapproval and the dangers of war in order to convince Hamilton of their future together. Hamilton has loved Esther for years, and on the eve of battle pens the love letter she’s always wanted—something straight from the heart.  
Set in stunning upcountry South Carolina, The Love Letter is a beautifully crafted story of the courage it takes to face down fear and chase after love, even in the darkest of times. And just maybe, all these generations later, love can come home in a way not even Hollywood could imagine.

And now, my review:
The Love Letter was a great book in that it was a book about the present and the past all at one time.  This guy looks back at his family heritage and brings it to the present.  I really liked all the switching between the story’s original timing and the present timing of how the family story was being seen and experienced. The romance was fun to watch unfold with all the twists and turns.  As a historical enthusiast, the historical Revolutionary War side of this book was really captivating because of the sides that can be taken.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.





More Than Meets the Eye by Karen Witemeyer

More Than Meets the Eye (A Patchwork Family Novel Book #1) by [Witemeyer, Karen]
Here is the book summary:
Many consider Evangeline Hamilton cursed. Orphaned at a young age and possessing a pair of mismatched eyes--one bright blue, the other dark brown--Eva has fought to find her way in a world that constantly rejects her. Yet the support of even one person can help overcome the world's judgments, and Eva has two--Seth and Zach, two former orphans she now counts as brothers. 

Seeking justice against the man who stole his birthright and destroyed his family, Logan Fowler arrives in 1880s Pecan Gap, Texas, to confront Zach Hamilton, the hardened criminal responsible for his father's death. Only instead of finding a solitary ruthless gambler, he discovers a man not much older than himself with an unusual family. When Zach's sister, Evangeline, insists on dousing Logan with sunshine every time their paths cross, Logan finds his quest completely derailed. Who is truly responsible for his lost legacy, and will restoring the past satisfy if it means forfeiting a future with Evangeline?

And now, my review:
I really enjoy the writing of Karen Witemeyer.  I find that she has a way with words and keeps her stories at a level that draws me in and I enjoy without all the stress.  This story was another great one by her.  The leading lady, all the sad things that she has had to face, it was quite a ride riding it with her.  She has bullies in her life that make fun of her looks.  She’s left without family at such a young age and yet God provides for her.  It’s beautiful to watch how He does that and I’m convinced of their amazing family dynamic.  The warnings of unforgiveness and revenge run deep in this book.  Much to be learned in letting go and letting God.  The romance was wonderful! 

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




A Defense of Honor by Kristi Ann Hunter


A Defense of Honor (Haven Manor Book #1) by [Hunter, Kristi Ann]
Here is the book summary:
When Katherine "Kit" FitzGilbert turned her back on London society more than a decade ago, she determined never to set foot in a ballroom again. But when business takes her to London and she's forced to run for her life, she stumbles upon not only a glamorous ballroom but also Graham, Lord Wharton. What should have been a chance encounter becomes much more as Graham embarks on a search for his friend's missing sister and is convinced Kit knows more about the girl than she's telling.

After meeting Graham, Kit finds herself wishing things could have been different for the first time in her life, but what she wants can't matter. Long ago, she dedicated herself to helping women escape the same scorn that drove her from London and raising the innocent children caught in the crossfire. And as much as she desperately wishes to tell Graham everything, revealing the truth isn't worth putting him and everyone she loves in danger.

And now, my review:
A Defense of Honor is a wonderful Historical Christian Fiction.  I felt that this author painted the scenes really well.  The main character was formerly of high society and the intermingling involved in higher society was written well.  Unfortunately, the actives behind the scene were penned most likely accurately and quite saddening.  She leaves the high society life and turns her life to be one of purpose in helping those in need of help.  She is looked at as one of their mothers and her role, as well as the other 2 women helping,  are one of inspiration in a needed place.  I really enjoyed this read and look forward to reading more from this author. 
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.







Sunday, September 30, 2018

Imagine The Ten Plagues by Matt Koceich


Imagine... The Ten Plagues (Imagine...Series Book 2) by [Koceich, Matt]

Here is the book summary:
The Second Release in an Epic Bible Adventure Series for Kids
The last thing fourth-grader Kai Wells remembers (before the world as she knew it disappeared) is being surrounded by bullies on her walk home from school. What happens next can't be explained as Kai finds herself on the run for her life in ancient Egypt! Imagine. . .The Ten Plagues is the second release in an exciting, brand-new epic adventure series for kids ages 8 to 12 written by schoolteacher 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. 

And now, my review:
This book about the 10 plagues mentioned in Exodus all those years ago, was a great adventure that we got to go on together.  We really enjoy the imagination that this author uses in his books.  This is the second book that we have read by him.  When asked, my kids thought it was totally awesome!!  It was a bit scary at one point, but that is what makes an adventure exciting, and really it wasn’t too bad.  It has a way of drawing you into the plagues.  We liked the names he used for his characters.  It also has a great message on dealing with bullies in our lives.  It is an encouraging read to stand up against them and not be subject to their taunting. 
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing, Netgalley and was under no obligation to post a review.






Amish Cooking Class Cookbook by Wanda Brunstetter




Here is the book summary:
Amish Cooking Basic Enough for Beginners
 
Fans of New York Times bestselling author Wanda E. Brunstetter’s Amish romance novels are invited to go back to cooking basics with characters from the bestselling Amish Cooking Class series. Heidi Troyer, her students, and other contributors share over 200 practical recipes for use in any kitchen, along with tips to keep things running smoothly. From learning how to boil eggs and knead biscuits to building a German Pizza and an Amish Haystack feast, The Amish Cooking Class Cookbook includes something beneficial for every age and skill set. Divided into traditional cookbook categories, there is a recipe everyone will find to love.

And now, my review:
Aside from just being the extended preview, I enjoyed paging through this one.  The helpful hints at the front were very helpful.  For example, when peeling potatoes, cover them in cold water so they don’t turn dark…  Thumbs up!  And you can have them sit like this overnight in the fridge and use them the next day.  There’s also a helpful hint on the fastest way to peel potatoes.     This is so nice to know while we are coming into Thanksgiving and Christmas Season.  I’m also looking forward to trying the book's recipe on Eggnog for our tree trimming day coming up soon.  Check this one out for delicious Amish cooking.

I received a partial digital copy of this in exchange for my honest review.





Friday, September 28, 2018

Healthy Air Fryer Cookbook by Dana Angelo White

Healthy Air Fryer Cookbook: 100 Great Recipes with Fewer Calories and Less Fat by [White, Dana Angelo]

Here is the book summary:
Air frying is fast, convenient, and healthier than oil frying, but it's not easy to find air frying recipes that are healthy and tasty. The Healthy Air Fryer Cookbook contains 100 recipes that are absolutely delicious and also better for your health because they use less oil and contain healthier ingredients than traditional fried foods. Included in this book are better-for-you versions of traditional main dishes, breakfasts, sides (like French fries), desserts (like cookies), and more. You'll also learn how to use this versatile appliance to bake, roast, and grill many of your favorite fried foods-with fewer calories.

And now, my review:
This book had me from the word Healthy…  I love that about the air fryer.  From salmon to bacon, to veggies, and desserts… this book holds an amazing amount of yummy recipes.  It even has a gluten-free donut hole recipe that I’ll be needing to try out very soon.  There is a pear crisp recipe that also looks like a great addition to a wonderful meal.  This book includes full colored pictures to a lot of the recipes that will make your mouth water.  The instructions are thorough and it’s really amazing all the things that you can do with your air fryer.  Time to get cooking and creating wonderful meals for my family.

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