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Chasing Sunsets

Posted by html404 on June 13, 2011
in Books

This weekend has been catch-up-on-book- review weekend with all of us being sick, well, most of the children are nearly well now. It’s my husband and I who have felt the worst, and baby has a touch of it. Lots of time nursing.

Chasing Sunsets by Eva Marie Everson is about life after divorce, but more than that, about letting go of control, family secrets and the grace to cover them. Not to mention a sweet romance of finding your first love again. After all, who ever thinks that will happen?

Now, I don’t know much about having my spouse leave me or divorcing me, but my heart went out to Kimberly, the main character in this book, as she maneuvers through a life that she did not count on experiencing. I can relate to living a life that is quite different from what I expected though.

I also understood Kimberly’s desire to control her life circumstances as I have that tendency – whether I like that trait in myself or not. I am a thinker and a fixer. If a problem comes about, I want to solve it. That’s good and bad because where is my trust in God if I am trying to figure everything out myself?

I enjoyed the story of Chasing Sunsets, but hated the cliffhanger of the second book excerpt the publishers included at the end of this book because now I have to wait to find out what happens! I think any woman who has experienced an altered life will appreciate and relate to the story within Chasing Sunsets.

“Available June 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

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When You Can’t Find God

Posted by html404 on June 12, 2011
in Books

The title of the book I recently read for a review was very fitting for what my husband and I have been going through for the past three years, “When You Can’t Find God.” It seems that more often than not when circumstances spiral out of our control that God seems to be far away from us. We got through reading the first three chapters together before I had to speed ahead to write this review. However, we both have enjoyed the insight that Linda Evans Shepherd offered in her new book.

From envying others, especially those who do not know God – ever done that? Believe that celebrities etc. have it all and we Christians are left with all the heartaches? Yep, me too.

Comfort and prosperity have never enriched the world as much as adversity has. ~ Billy Graham, quote that starts Chapter 1 of When You Can’t Find God

To our burdens that Jesus promises to carry, our hurts He promises to heal and our bitterness He promises to take away.

We are all faced with a series of great opportunities brilliantly disguised as impossible situations. ~ Charles Swindoll, quote that starts Chapter 10 of When You Can’t Find God

Linda gives us hope with her words of understanding, scripture verses and stories of how God shows His presence amidst difficulties, with real life examples from the lives of others. Ultimately peace and joy are ours if we only allow Him to bring us to ourselves to receive it with His help and power.

Perhaps God brings us to the end of our resources so we can discover the vastness of His. ~ Neil T. Anderson, quote that starts Chapter 12 of When You Can’t Find God

This is a wonderful book that allows us to regain our focus as we walk through difficult circumstances. We highly recommend it.

“Available May 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

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You Can Count On Monsters

Posted by html404 on June 11, 2011
in Books, Education

You Can Count on Monsters is a fun new educational book for children that is designed to teach children math.

My children really liked this book. They enjoyed the fun illustrations and they liked the concept of finding the monsters. Inside this book the author gives the number for the monster and then children have to look for that monster in the pictures. I found the pictures confusing, but perhaps that is because I’m not used to abstract art.

The math that is taught in this book is basic multiplication and the building blocks of numbers. Children will be taught prime numbers and fractions in a fun, yet educational way that all parents can appreciate.

All in all my children like this little book and it’s a great way to teach your children math.

You can find this book online at- amazon.com

Faith and Family Reviews received the following product in exchange for writing a review. While we consider it a privilege to receive free products to review, our reviews are our honest opinion and thoughts of the product.

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A Killer Among Us – A Revell Blog Tour

Posted by html404 on May 24, 2011
in Books

I have really enjoyed Lynette Eason’s mystery/thriller books. A Killer Among Us kept me guessing as to who the killer was, but I will admit that early on it briefly crossed my mind, “Could……be?” However, the way Lynette wove the story together I was suspecting someone within seconds.

It’s amazing how life events shape us. Kit Kenyon was a strong, talented negotiator who worked for the Police Department. Nevertheless, she was a character who could have been any one of us. Due to a recent revelation in her life, her relationship with God was on the rocks. She was angry because of decisions that were made that were beyond her control, yet God ultimately could have changed them had He wanted to. Sound familiar? Ah-huh, me too.

Thankfully, Kit had some amazing people in her life to lead her back to God. Her family and her new partner, whose background had influenced the man he became as an adult. He was a man on a mission for God. His love for God was evident and made me reflect again on our ability to influence or hinder the gospel of Jesus Christ.

A Killer Among Us receives two thumbs up from me!

“Available May 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

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Tomorrow’s Garden – A Revell Blog Tour

Posted by html404 on May 23, 2011
in Books

I really enjoyed Amanda’s Scattered Petals book and decided to read the third book in her Texas Dreams series.

Tomorrow’s Garden is another historical fiction with a romance plot. I enjoyed the strength of Harriet and her display of responsibility to her younger siblings. I visualized myself and my oldest daughter in Harriet’s character. Me as a mother and my daughter as the oldest to our crew.

It’s heartbreaking when people are basically run out of their home, town or church due to “talk”. It is even more heartwrenching to watch someone you know venture down a destructive path. Harriet had to make some tough decisions for her family. She also had to show some tough love and her siblings respected her for it…in the end.

Tomorrow’s Garden stirred up some strong feelings within me as I read about an encounter Harriet had with someone she was growing to love about an issue that literally rocked her world. As I read it, I wished that there were more people like the Sheriff who responded in such a loving way to such a controversial subject.

At the risk of sounding like a broken record, the romance part of the book was truly predictable, but I loved the story of family, love and togetherness it displayed.

“Available April 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

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The Night Night Book Review

Posted by Brande on April 25, 2011
in Baby Products, Books, Ebooks, Education, Family Stuff, Gift Ideas

“Bestselling author Marianne Richmond, continuing in the vein of her other books such as If I Could Keep You Little, creates vibrant, eye-catching art and beautiful verses in The Night Night Book (Sourcebooks: ISBN 978-1-9340-8290-4). This tender, evocative picture book brings the entire family together as the perfect story before bed.”

“Sure to become a new bedtime classic, this book takes readers on a tour of the house as everyone settles in. Whimsical artwork and comforting scenes show kids it’s time to say goodnight. Filled with text and illustrations that exemplify Marianne’s real insights into the human spirit, The Night Night Book is a must have bedtime accessory for any parent.”

“Comfy bed,

all tucked in.

Cozy blanket,

toes to chin.

Night night sky.

Night night moon.

Dear tomorrow,

see you soon!”

“The ideal way to wrap up a day with your child, The Night Night Book is an adorable bedtime story the helps kids and parents bid farewell to the day, settle in for the night, and rest up for a new tomorrow.”

About Marianne Richmond:

“Marianne Richmond started her own greeting card company (Marianne RStudios, Inc.) and has become a recognized creator of numerous books that celebrate milestone in life, memorable journeys, and relationships. Since her first book in 1997, Gift of An Angel, write and artist Marianne Richmond has touched the lives of millions over the past decade through her line of greeting cards and gift books.”

My Review:

My, daughter, husband and I sat down last night and read this book before bed. This book was perfect for us because we say night night and our daughter understands what it means. We all enjoyed it! My daughter loves the illustrations as she pointed out various object and animals throughout the book. It was a good learning tool also. We asked her where the stars were on a page and she would point them out. It was just long enough to keep her attention and start relaxing for the night.

I know I’ve said and I’ll say it again, great baby shower gift! I would recommend this book for you and your little ones as a great bonding tool! It’s available now! We will be reading it again tonight and in the future for sure.

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For Your Kids…..From Dr. Seuss

Posted by html404 on April 22, 2011
in Books, Deals

Another email in my inbox that I thought I would share for those of you who may be Dr. Seuss fans….

Give your child the gift
of old-fashioned fun

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Dr. Seuss Books. Puzzles. Games. All for just $5.95!

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www.earlymoments.com

You have received this offer as a result of your membership in an opt-in mailing list. If you no longer wish to receive special online offers from Early Moments, unsubscribe today atwww.earlymoments.com/unsubscribe

Read our privacy policy

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The Deepest Waters Book Review

Posted by Brande on April 10, 2011
in Books

“I’ve written you a note, inside the pouch,” John yelled. “Don’t read it…unless you hear word that I – that I did not…” Tears poured down his cheeks. He looked away. “John!” she screamed. “I must go back…”

“Award-wining author Dan Walsh brings a powerful love story reminiscent of the Titanic to readers. The Deepest Waters(ISBN: 978-0-8007-1980-7, April 2011, $14.99) is a masterpiece of historical fiction set in 1857 when newlyweds John and Laura Foster set sail on the SS Vandervere for their honeymoon. Soon, their fairytale becomes a nightmare when a hurricane causes the ship to sink into the depths of the Atlantic. John and Laura are separated not knowing if they will ever see each other again.”

“Walsh was inspired to write The Deepest Waters by the true story of the sinking of a paddle-wheel steamship laden with gold from San Francisco, California. The SS Central America, bound for New York City ran into a hurricane which sealed her fate around September 11, 1857.”

“Walsh takes readers on a journey through troubled waters as they discover the treasure hidden in The Deepest Waters, a story full of action and suspense. Through the Fosters, Walsh creates an amazing love story about what happens when miracles do come true.”

About the Author

“Dan Walsh is the award-winning author of The Unfinished Gift, and The Homecoming. A member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Dan served as a pastor for 25 years. He lives with his family in the Daytona Beach area, where he’s busy researching and writing his next novel.”

My Review:

Not being an avid reader, I really enjoyed this book. It was easy to read and held my interest. The first few pages catches your attention and then it turns into a “page turner”. The middle pages seemed a little slow, but suspenseful. However, the ending of the book does not fail! You will again keep turning the pages wondering what happens next. It’s a great lounging or vacation book.

The Deepest Waters (ISBN: 978-0-8007-1980-7, April 2011, $14.99)

“Available April 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

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Beside Still Waters – A Litefuse Blog Tour

Posted by html404 on April 9, 2011
in Books

Faith and Family Reviews received the following product in exchange for writing a review for Litfuse Blog Tours. While we consider it a privilege to receive free products to review, our reviews are our honest opinion and thoughts of the product.

Most of you all know that I am intrigued by the Amish. Their community and lifestyle just holds some appeal, not only to me but to the thousands of tourists who visit Amish country in Pennsylvania each year too. Not to mention their modesty and style of dress is a novelty in a culture who seems to be undressing.

Beside Still Waters by Tricia Goyer is another Amish story. It is about the Sommers family, especially about Marianna Sommers, and her family’s move away from their old community to a new one; and all the challenges a big change can bring. The storyline deals with many facets of the heart and relationships. I just want to share the ones that stood out to me.

I could relate to Marianna’s struggle with the move. Nearly 17 years ago I made a huge move when I married my husband. I moved from a small country town in Canada to the Chicago area. A big move can be very difficult.

Marianna was not only dealing with the struggle of the move, but to be a dutiful daughter, the guilt of being born, and being attracted to English ways. Ever feel guilty for something you had no control over? I have, it’s a huge weight to carry, and let go of.

I identified with Marianna’s course of direction. It is hard to know God’s will, let alone the true motives of our own hearts. I liked what Marianna’s father said about peace, “It’s a peace that comes even when you can’t know the future. It’s the peace that comes from knowing God is already there.” That was a striking statement for me. To be comfortable with whatever is ahead because God is already there. No need to worry or fear because He is there.

Pretty strong stuff.

Again, Beside Still Waters is yet another book that reveals the Amish are drawn to many of the same things we are, are committed to God and family, they just live it out in a different way than most of us do.

Two thumbs up from me!

About Tricia

Tricia Goyer is the author of twenty-six books including Songbird Under a German Moon, The Swiss Courier, and the mommy memoir, Blue Like Play Dough. She won Historical Novel of the Year in 2005 and 2006 from ACFW, and was honored with the Writer of the Year award from Mt. Hermon Writer’s Conference in 2003. Tricia’s book Life Interrupted was a finalist for the Gold Medallion in 2005. In addition to her novels, Tricia writes non-fiction books and magazine articles for publications like MomSense and Thriving Family. Tricia is a regular speaker at conventions and conferences, and has been a workshop presenter at the MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) International Conventions. She and her family make their home in Little Rock, Arkansas where they are part of the ministry of FamilyLife. Visit www.triciagoyer.com for more info.

Blog Tour Giveaway

Tricia is hosting a book giveaway on her blog during the tour. Bonus: She’s also giving away a Montana Amish Calendar to everyone who enters the giveaway! While supplies last. Be sure to head on over to her blog and enter yourself: http://triciagoyer.blogspot.com/2011/04/beside-still-waters-giveaway.html

To celebrate the release of the first book in the Big Sky Amish series Tricia is giving away 10 copies of Beside Still Waters and a pair of super cute antique Amish salt & pepper shakers.

Details at Tricia’s blog, It’s Real Life: http://triciagoyer.blogspot.com/2011/04/beside-still-waters-giveaway.html

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Coach Wooden – The 7 Principles that Shaped His Life and Will Change Yours

Posted by html404 on April 9, 2011
in Books

This is a rare review given by my husband, a man of very few words, as dictated to me.

Coach Wooden was a legendary UCLA basketball coach. Pat Williams has written this book to share the story of the legacy Coach’s father passed on to him – The 7 Principles that Shaped His Life and Will Change Yours. It is a story that continues to impact lives, including mine.

It was impressive to find out that when Wooden graduated from eighth grade his father gave him the 7 Principles on a handwritten card and said, “Son, try to live up to this.” That touched me and here are those principles:

– Be true to yourself.

– Help others.

– Make Friendship a fine art.

– Drink deeply from good books, especially the Bible.

– Make each day your masterpiece.

– Build a shelter against a rainy day by the life you live.

– Give thanks for your blessings and pray for guidance every day.

I thought this book about Coach Wooden was great. I loved many of Coach Wooden’s little sayings, but especially these:

“The worst thing about new books is they keep us from reading old ones.”

“Discipline yourself and others won’t need to.”

“Failure to prepare is preparing to fail.”

“What is right is more important that who is right.”

“The best way to improve the team is to improve yourself.”

“Don’t let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do.”

One of the stories I appreciated, because I have always been of slender frame, is the one Jamaal Wilkes (Page 168) shared during Coach Wooden’s uology about Coach’s underrated sense of humor:

I was selected by the Warriors with the 11th pick of the first round of the NBA Draft. There was a great deal of concern about my slender frame and whether I could hold up under all the pounding in the NBA. A sportswriter asked Coach about my chances of making it in the NBA, and he said, ‘Well, he’ll never pull a muscle–because there are no muscles to pull.

This made me laugh. Coach Wooden was a great man and this is a book that should be read by all, but especially men.

“Available February 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”