“When the Meadow Blooms” by Ann H. Gabhart

Posted on May 20, 2022 by WordPress.com Support

A Dream’s End or Beginning

Sisters, Calla and Sienna, have been forced into an orphanage for two years, where they have been mistreated.  At the same time, their widowed mother, Rose, has been a patient trying to recover from TB.  Penniless, still not well, and without family, Rose reaches out to the one person who might help get her daughters back, her brother-in-law, Dirk.

Rose has only met Dirk once, he was unfriendly and preferred to stay hidden. Horribly disfigured and scarred in a fire twenty years earlier, Dirk, has lived the life of a broken-hearted recluse.  His fiancé, Anneliese disappeared the same day as the fire.  He has never gotten over her deserting him.

Desperate, Rose begs Dirk to help them and he agrees to bring all of them to his farm, Meadowland.  An inquisitive little girl, a traumatized teenager, and an ailing woman are now living with Dirk.  Can he adjust to having people around him? Or will he keep himself shut off from them, still haunted by Anneliese leaving?

This sweet story will grab your heart.  Sienna has a special gift with animals, it is almost like they can understand her.  Calla can’t help trying to figure out what happened to Annelise.  But by working on this mystery, she may put a wedge between them and Dirk.  Will Dirk allow them to stay, or will their dream of living at the beautiful Meadowland end?

This five-star book is clean, and written from a Christian viewpoint.  With all the turmoil these people face, it has a really wonderful ending, and the tale is very enjoyable.  I recommend it to fans of mystery and true to life stories.

Revell Books has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, When the Meadow Blooms, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/AnnGabhart/

The Author’s Twitter:  https://twitter.com/AnnHGabhart

The Author’s Website:  https://www.annhgabhart.com

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“Super You” by Anne Kennedy Brady

Posted on May 12, 2022 by WordPress.com Support

It’s a Bird, it’s a Plane…..

Attention all little superheroes, here is the book for you.  This story tells the things needed to do to be a superhero.  From helping others, to telling the truth, to righting wrongs:  these are all good qualities to have.  Parents will be thrilled to have their child imitate these examples.

This is a large board book measuring in at 7” by 7”.  It is chock full of brightly colored, mini superheroes all busy doing a variety of good deeds.  This tale will be loved by all because it celebrates creativity and pretending.

In this case, doing those things to be a superhero—but one that has only good qualities.  Children will like seeing all fun ways to be a superhero illustrated in this story.

But the very best thing about the tale, is that the book emphasizes the kind of superhero we all need.  Achieving those goals will be no problem for a child, and will make them an “amazing super you!”

I like how the book stressed helping, sharing, and standing by friends.  Young ones will always need role models, let this positive take on superheroes be one.   Both boys and girls through first grade will enjoy this five-star book.

Although young, the author has penned six plays that have been professionally produced and written numerous books—including some Veggie Tales.  She did her first story when she was six-years-old, and it featured a mermaid who loved ice cream sundaes!

Worthy Kids has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, Super You, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

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“The Rooted Life” by Justin Rhodes

Posted on May 7, 2022 by WordPress.com Support

Affordable Organic Eating!

For the sake of his family’s health, Justin wanted to eat organic and free-range foods. But he was suffering severe sticker shock every time he bought those things because they were so expensive.

That is when he saw a package of lettuce seeds at the store. When he looked at it, he discovered that for the small price the seeds cost, he would reap bushels of lettuce. That was a life changing moment.

Even though Justin didn’t have any gardening experience, he claims it wasn’t hard to grow things. As time went on, he has produced more of his own food. He has branched out to raising chickens and other livestock. It is all organic, and Justin declares nothing tastes as good as something fresh from the garden.

The Rhodes have grown things year-round, and often have eaten complete meals containing only things they have produced. Justin chronicles their captivating story, along with easy-to-follow instructions to copy everything he has done. He includes advice about growing extra, selling it, and using that money to eat for free.

Going back to nature, living off the land, these are catch phrases that have been enticing people for years to give the self-sustaining life a chance. But not too many people stay with it because it can be a lot of hard work, sometimes with very little to show for it.

Justin not only thought about this life-style, but did it, and says he has found a way to make it attainable–and he tells you how. This five-star, over-sized book contains beautiful pictures of his family, and their gardens. Enjoy his story, and if it inspires you, start producing your own healthy food. This will appeal to fans of biographies or gardeners, as well as, readers in general.

Hachette Books has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, The Rooted Life, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

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“God Made You Too” by Chelsea Tornetto

Posted on April 30, 2022 by WordPress.com Support

Illustrated by Kimberley Barnes

You Are Loved!

Look at the great big world, take note of all that is in it, including incredible animals of every type.  It is amazing.  Think about the marvels in space:  the stars, the moons, planets and comets.  God created each one, and thought them all good.Despite all those incredible things, there was still one thing missing to make everything complete—He needed to make you!

This delightful picture book tells this story with rhyming verse—sure to tickle the ears of little ones.  The highlight of the story is that God does not see everything as perfect until He creates the child.  Small ones will understand how much God loves them, and how  special they are.

This hard-backed, five-star book is a delight to the eyes because of the beautifully colored illustrations that fill it. I recommend this for children through second grade.

Worthy Kids has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, God Made You Too, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

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“No Crowns in the Castle” by Fantasia and Kendall Taylor

Posted on April 27, 2022 by WordPress.com Support

Have a Great Life & a Spectacular Marriage!

This is the true story of two very accomplished people. Although achieving that came at a cost, with mistakes and regrets along the way. The two are transparent about the many hard things they faced in their lives. Kendall revealed he was in jail, and had a baby as a young teenager. Fantasia discusses that she was raped, had failed relationships and bankruptcy.

Despite those things, due to hard work and the blessing of God, both have done phenomenally well in their different fields. However, when they married, they found that all their worldly achievements–their crowns–had to stay outside their relationship. They had to face each other on an even playing field, as just an ordinary man and a woman, not stars with all those worldly trappings–AND have the help of God.

By following God’s principles, their marriage has, and is, very successful. It is so touching to hear Kendall refer to Fantasia as his queen. As a woman, I would adore having my husband think of me, as well as, call me his queen. Although not always easy, by sticking to Biblical guidelines, they have an amazing relationship–one everyone would be fortunate to have.

I really liked that this couple’s story was kept clean, that they have based their relationship on God’s word, and their marriage has been very favored. Just like all of us, they are not perfect people, but they follow a perfect God. This five-star book is recommended to anyone in a relationship, or fans of biographies.

Worthy Publishing has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, No Crowns in the Castle, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

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“All That it Takes” by Nicole Deese

Posted on April 21, 2022 by WordPress.com Support

Then Everything Changed!

After becoming disabled as a child, and an unwed mother as a teen, Val embarrassed and scared, has lived years in a self-imposed prison in a dead-end town. She would be hiding away still if it weren’t for the job offer her friend used to entice Val to move.

Now that she has traveled hundreds of miles and turned her life upside down, both the place she was going to live, along with the new job have fallen through. Has all of this been a mistake? Is this a sign that she should enter a prestigious competition that would use her passion, photography? The prize would include amazing job opportunities. But how could she compete since she has no formal training?

Miles has been an outreach pastor for years, globe hopping and living his dream. But now the pastor of his home church has caused such a budget strain that his job has been eliminated. He has been reassigned to a dying outreach; Miles knows his days are numbered there. He is having lots of trouble not feeling resentful.

When Miles and Val’s paths cross, more complications arise. If they get involved, will that open themselves up to more heartache? Will Tucker, Val’s son, be the one most hurt if this relationship does not work? Just as things are opening up for both of them, an alternative choice comes along that could spell happiness for one of them, and heartache for the other.

This story is amazing. You will love the characters and think you know the ending, but you will be wrong! This clean Christian fiction will spin a tale you will not want to put down. Those who like dramatic stories with lots of twists and turns will enjoy this five-star book–make sure you read it!

Bethany House Publishing has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, All That it Takes, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/nicoledeeseauthor

The Author’s Twitter:  https://twitter.com/nicoledeese

The Author’s Website:  https://www.nicoledeese.com/

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“Where’s My Easter Basket?” by Bob Holt

Posted on April 15, 2022 by WordPress.com Support

Are You an Easter Basket?

Join Blue Bird as he looks for his Easter Basket.  But first, he must figure out just what an Easter Basket is.  He starts asking everything he runs across if they are an Easter Basket.  He asks that question of a yellow chick, a chocolate bunny, a bunch of jelly beans, and many more.

Every one says no, they are not an Easter Basket, but will come along with him to help look for it.

Children will have lots of fun seeing the different items, and hearing them say they are not an Easter Basket.  Little ones will know that each one is something that goes into an Easter Basket, but each one by itself is not a basket.  All the favorites are here, and children can name which ones they like best.

This chunky board book is perfect for small hands and the colorful illustrations throughout the volume will capture their imagination.  Children through five years old will have lots of fun with this five-star book!

WorthyKids has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, Where’s My Easter Basket?, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

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“The Story of Easter” by Patricia A. Pingry

Posted on April 15, 2022 by WordPress.com Support

Easter:  The True Story!

This is the story of Jesus, Palm Sunday and Easter. We learn that Jesus loved all of us very much–both little children and adults alike. He made a big sacrifice for us, gave every one a great gift, and now we can live forever because of Him.

Starting with the palms that were laid down for Jesus, to His death, everything is put in terms two-to-five-year-olds are comfortable with, and can understand.

Easter is a joyful time! Some of the ways we celebrate today includes going to church, sharing His love, and spending time with each other.

This board book contains lots of bright colors and illustrations that make the story come alive, and will capture the attention of small children. The true meaning of Easter is presented in this great five-star book.

WorthyKids has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, The Story of Easter, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

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“The Element of Love” by Mary Connealy

Posted on April 14, 2022 by WordPress.com Support

Thrills, Danger, Excitement–Trying to Find a Good Man!

Three sheltered sisters, who have only known affluence, escape in the middle of the night. They follow a dangerous scheme, but they must get away before their step-father’s arranged marriages take place. Their only hope is to find honest men, marry them and gain control of their inheritance.

To stay under the radar, they have taken refuge in a struggling mission near the California gold camps. But Caleb, the man in charge, is new. His lack of knowledge, along with terrible circumstances, have almost caused the death of them all.

Have the sisters leapt out of the frying pan and into the fire? If they marry quickly, how do they keep from getting in a controlling, dangerous situation like they had with their step-dad? Will they be able to find suitable husbands among the desperate men ready to kill because of gold fever? Is their mother being beaten or worse because of their step-father’s anger over the missing girls?

The adventures these women have will keep you on the edge of your seat, while many of their circumstances, although dangerous, will also bring you a chuckle or two. Mary Connealy is well-known for her amazing stories, and this does not disappoint. This is Christian fiction, a clean story, and I highly recommend it.

This is book one in the series, “Lumber Baron’s Daughters,” and ends on a cliff-hanger. You will be thrilled to get the next installment for more of this exciting tale–I guarantee it!

Bethany House has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, The Element of Love, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/maryconnealy 

Author’s Twitter:  https://twitter.com/maryconnealy

Author’s Website:  http://maryconnealy.com/

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“The Sweet Life” by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Posted on April 4, 2022 by WordPress.com Support

Ice Cream—the Answer to Everything?

Dawn is on her honeymoon, with her mother! This odd situation is the result of her fiancé, Kevin, calling off their engagement–the night they were addressing wedding invitations.

The two women are polar opposites. Her mom, Marnie, is newly widowed and a recent cancer survivor. She is an impulsive, laid-back, free spirit. Dawn likes to think things through, slowly make decisions, and follow a set routine. With the recent death of her dad, and Kevin backing out of their wedding, she is heart-broken.

While giving Dawn the alone-time she wants, Marnie explores the tourist town, and discovers a dilapidated building housing a closed ice cream shop. Despite its poor shape, being on the historical registry that requires all changes–even repairs–be pre-approved, and the only business season in the summer, Marnie makes the snap decision to buy it.

Horrified that Marnie is going to lose her life savings on a pipe dream, Dawn takes a work leave of absence to help her mother get the shop into shape, and convince her to sell it.

Will the business never get a chance to open because Marnie ignores the paperwork and deadlines from the historic committee? Does the soothing peace that Dawn experiences while making and creating ice cream change her mind about “the money pit”? Why does Kevin start appearing in their lives?

This story will tug at your heart, but also give you lots of smiles. The antics of the two women, along with their relationship, will keep you entertained. In the end, you just might want to get an ice cream shop of your own. This five-star book, told from a Christian perspective, will be enjoyed by those who like tales of people thrust into difficult situations, and how they make it through them!

The LibraryThing has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, The Sweet Life, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/SuzanneWoodsFisherAuthor

The Author’s Twitter:  https://twitter.com/suzannewfisher

The Author’s Website:  https://suzannewoodsfisher.com

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