“Woman of Sunlight” by Mary Connealy

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Married to Your Enemy!

Ilsa and Mitch have just gotten married and they don’t even like each other—and they have to hurry because someone is trying to kill them.  Welcome to the Wild West of 1870’s.  Along with her two sisters, Ilsa has spent her entire life living in isolation on top of a mountain.  Not only have strangers invaded their homeland bringing all their new ways of living alone, Ilsa is now married to one of them.

No sooner have Ilsa and Mitch said their vows than they are off to Chicago.  As they try to solve the mystery of who is behind the murder attempts, they find themselves in as much danger as they left behind, and killers abound.

Because Ilsa lived cut-off from the world, she experienced her first train ride.  Every time the whistle blew, she was traumatized, and wanted off.  Other firsts were coffee, which she liked after it had milk and sugar.  She found the taste of ice cream, strawberries, and apple dumplings such a delight that she couldn’t get enough.

This is a fun book that also contains a very serious story that is full of danger.  Ilsa’s faith is refreshing, and is a great part of this tale.  This story stands alone, but there are still some threads that need to be answered in the next installment. This 5-star book will be enjoyed by those who like well-written fiction or westerns with a touch of humor.

Bethany House Publishing through NetGalley has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of, Woman of Sunlight, 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 Blog:  http://mconnealy.blogspot.com/p/about-mary.html

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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“Cry of the Raven” by Morgan L. Busse

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wow, this is Good!

Good and evil clash in part three of this exciting story, and if you have not read the other two parts, you will need to in order to appreciate this tale (see http://bookreadingtic.com/2018/11/10/mark-of-the-raven-by-morgan-l-busse/ and http://bookreadingtic.com/2019/05/03/flight-of-the-raven-by-morgan-l-busse/).  How can the Great Houses hope to win when they are not all united?  Trouble is brewing because Damien has begun having problems using his gift—without which, all will be lost.

Lady Selene discovers how her gift was meant to be used, and puts it into practice.  Her mother and the Dark Lady team up to destroy her; can Selene defeat them when it is two against one?  Others do not trust Selene, and view her every move with suspicion, will that keep her from being able to fully help with the cause?

There are revelations in this tale, and the unexpected, including what becomes of Selene and her mother.

I do not like fantasy, but I LOVED THIS BOOK! It is a captivating story that will grab you and not let you go.  The drama, plus all the twists and turns, will keep you on the edge of your seat.  It is told from a Christian viewpoint.  The only negative?  This is the last of the series.  I highly recommend this 5-plus star book to everyone; it is that good.  No matter what your taste, you will love this book!

Bethany House Publishing through NetGalley has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of, Cry of the Raven, 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/morganlbusseauthor/

The Author’s Twitter:  https://twitter.com/morganlbusse?lang=en

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

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“The Runaway Bride” by Jody Hedlund

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How Far Must She Run?

Desperate to leave 1860’s England, Arabella boarded a bride ship bound for British Columbia.  Since women there were outnumbered ten to one, bride-hunting men flocked to the ship as soon as it arrived.  When Richard, an eligible naval officer, took an interest in Arabella, she immediately became panicked by her inability to know a man’s true character.

Peter, a confident baker, impudent and forthright, introduced himself to Arabella.  Although nice, he is part of a class that would have been inappropriate to associate with back home, and would still raise many eyebrows in the new world.

Additionally, she often spots a man from England who means to harm her.  Will she be able to avoid him and stay safe?

By being kind to a sick child and indulging in a favorite pastime, she finds herself embroiled in situations that causes talk, and might make polite society look down on her.  Between that, and a habit she has of blurting out things that can result in harm to herself or others, she may be forced into an undesirable situation to save someone.  Will she end up repeating her past, with no escape this time?

This gripping story has lots of riveting aspects including characters who relied on God’s help to get them through it, and enhanced the tale.  I recommend this 5-star book to those who enjoy historical or well-written fiction.

Bethany House Publishing has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of, The Runaway Bride, 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/AuthorJodyHedlund

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

The Author’s Website:  http://jodyhedlund.com/

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“The Blunders” by Christina Soontornvat

Illustrated by Colin Jack

Counting Fun!

Join the mystery as the Blunders try to figure out what has happened to one of them.  Youngsters will have fun reading this humorous story about all of the mix-ups the Blunders get themselves into.  Wrapped up in all the hilarity and smiles is a good lesson about counting.

This over-sized, hard-back book contains colorful illustrations on every page.  Just as medicine goes down better with something sweet, learning is better when it is done in a fun way.

This book is a good example of that.  Almost without a child knowing it, they will understand the importance of numbers and counting correctly while enjoying this entertaining story.  I recommend this 5-star book to young readers up to 8 years old or to be read to preschoolers.

Candlewick Press has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of, The Blunders, 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 Website:  https://soontornvat.com/about/

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“Destroying Fear” by John Ramirez

Break Free & Change your Life!

Do you feel fear, uncertainty, or depression?  Break free from all those things plus hindrances, unanswered healings and more with the tools this author provides.  John knows what he is talking about since he spent years doing the devil’s bidding before becoming a follower of Christ.  In fact, he was a high-ranking member of the powers of darkness.  Because of that, the devil did not want to let him go, and John describes some of the warfare he faced.

John also tells us how to overcome the devil.  He gives detailed instructions to get free from the barbs and burdens thrown into Christian’s lives, and enjoy life without being weighed down.

As an evangelist for Christ, John has led an interesting existence.  One of the most touching stories he shares is that of his brother, also a satanist, whose short time on earth resulted in amazing things. Today, John is an enthusiastic Christian whose life, with the help of Jesus, is an example of this verse:

 “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” Genesis 50:20

I recommend this 5-star book for the instructions the author givess to get victory in our lives and freedom from fear.

Chosen Books has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of, Destroying Fear, 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/JohnRMinistries/

The Author’s Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/johnramirezministries/

The Author’s Website:  https://johnramirez.org

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Update For “The Wonder That is You” by Glenys Nellist

Illustrated by Aurelie Blanz

The Day Everything Changed, Update!

Update, The Wonder That is You, has now been published in board book form.  But have no fear, it has the lovely pictures that were so enchanting in the first book.

The author recalls “this is such a special book to me, because it’s based on the true story of the day my eldest son was born. It felt as if all creation rejoiced with me!” She uses rhyming verse to express the feelings of wonder, awe and blessing a new life brings.

This is still the book that Queen Elizabeth stated was a perfect gift for Archie Harrison’s christening.

This updated version contains chunky, child-friendly pages, along with a great padded cover that is easily held and feels good to the touch—additionally it is very durable able to withstand lots of loving. This over-sized book is so affordable consider getting one for yourself and a gift!  I recommend this 5-star book.  Zonderkidz Publishing has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of, The Wonder That is 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.

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

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

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

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“Dot. Unplugged” Character Created by Randi Zuckerberg

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Illustrated by The Jim Henson Company

Old School = Lots of Fun!

Want to get the kids to play the old-fashioned way, with no electronic or plugged-in items such as:  televisions, cell phones, game systems and so on?  Dot is here to tell you how to do it.  Join her, when on a rainy National Day of Unplugging, all their electronic things are turned off, and Dot doesn’t know what to do. Just when it seems all will be lost, they find some dusty old things in their storage area, and their entire family tries them out.  They have so much fun, they don’t want to stop when the day is over.  What looks like a boring day, turns into a great one.

This is a lovely over-sized, hard-backed book full of colorful illustrations.  Besides being a fun tale that will really engage a child, the book provides fifty examples of things to do that do not have a plug, and still have a blast.

Whether you want to celebrate the National Day of Unplugging in March, or just want a way to step back from gadgets for a while, this story will provide suggestions.  I highly recommend this 5-plus star book for another way to play for children up to seven or eight-year-olds.

Candlewick Press has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of, Dot. Unplugged, 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.

More About The National Day of Unplugging:  https://www.nationaldayofunplugging.com/

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“More Than We Remember” by Christina Suzann Nelson

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

When Life Gets Messy…..

Police officer Emilia’s existence has been a walking nightmare since a drunk’s inferno left her firefighter husband disabled.  She is dedicated to making sure substance abusers will pay for harming someone else.

Addison’s life has turned inside out after her husband, Caleb, was in a car accident that left one person dead.  Non-drinking, anti-drug, Caleb, has been accused of having both in his system.  Arrested for the crash, he has no memory of that night, where he had been, or with who.

Unable to practice therapy after a girl she was treating committed suicide, Brianne has attempted a new career, while carrying the guilt that she was to blame for the girl’s death.

Three fascinating stories intersect into one incredible book.  You will be unable to put this down, and will not see the surprise ending.  The things that happen, along with the character’s questioning of their faith, make this tale realistic.  I highly recommend this 5-plus-star book to anyone who enjoys well-written, captivating stories.

Bethany House Publishing has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of, More Than We Remember, 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/ChristinaSuzannNelson/

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

The Author’s Website:  http://www.christinasuzannnelson.com

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“The Promises of God Storybook Bible” by Jennifer Lyell

Illustrated by Thanos Tsilis

You Will Love This!

This book contains fifty-two Bible stories that range from the Creation Story, to Noah’s Ark to the New Heaven which is spoken of in the book of Revelation.  Amazing illustrations fill every page while the end of each account have a few things to think about.  These are a retelling of the narratives, not the Biblical text, but the core messages remain true.

For instance, the books relates that no one can stop God’s plans when speaking of baby Moses being abandoned in a basket, or explaining what haste meant after the shepherds hear angels sing of Jesus’ birth.  This extra information brings the stories alive and more easily understood by young readers.

It is bound beautifully with the night sky featured on the cover with embellishments that make the stars appear to shine.  Running throughout the book is an emphasis on the promises and love God has for us all.  I really love this book; it was so carefully done with kids in mind. I highly recommend this 5-plus star book for all elementary and middle school children so they can really understand the rich stories of the Bible.

B & H Kids Publishing has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of, The Promises of God Storybook Bible, 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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Random Ramblings Happy Valentine’s Day

There are two Valentine’s Days that really stand out for me.  Fifteen years ago today was one of them.  That year, on Valentine’s Day my husband, Chuck, woke me extra early.  He surprised me by arranging for my parents to get our two children after school, and had taken a vacation day to spend with me.

Chuck knows I am in love with quirky museums, we have gone to such gems as the Wizard of Oz Museum, The Kool-Aid Museum, and The Bowling Museum.   There was another unusual one a few hours away, that I had always wanted to see, and we were to take a day trip there. (If you have any suggestions about others, I would love to hear about them.)

What a day it turned out to be.  Never had Chuck ever done anything like that before, so that surprise alone was a gift.  But we also had a good time exploring the museum, along with the ride back and forth.  We ended the day eating at a little restaurant we found in a very small town.

It was a simple day, but a perfect day, too.  My parents are both gone now.  My children have graduated school and are young adults.  But in my mind, my kids are still little and thrilled to spend time with their grandparents, while my husband and I set out for a Valentine’s Day adventure.  I am so glad that in the midst of that busy time, Chuck made arrangements to completely blindside me with a day that I’ll never forget.

May your Valentine’s Day be memorable as well.  Sometimes the simplest things make the best memories!  In my opinion, Valentine’s Day, along with all other days, are better if they sparkle.  Hope you’ve enjoyed pictures taken with my favorite past-time, glitter.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

“Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God….” 1 John 4:7

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