“Far Side of the Sea” by Kate Breslin

Posted on April 1, 2019 by Becky

Adventure, Love and Stopping the War!

The constant noise of WWI bombs exploding in France is unnerving for Lieutenant Colin Mabry as he translates coded messages snuck out by homing pigeons. Despite being across the water in England, he can clearly hear them. When translating one day, he is surprised to discover one of the messages is addressed to Colin from Jewel. She is the young woman behind enemy lines who tended his wounds, and gave her love to him. She writes that Colin is the only one she trusts, and he must come to Paris to help her.

As a war veteran who suffers nightmares from battles that almost took his life—and did take his arm—Colin fights PTSD constantly. He states his strong faith in God has given him the strength to carry on. The idea of going to Paris where bombing takes place day and night is unwelcome. But Colin has never forgiven himself for not taking Jewel when he left, and vows he will help her this time.

Before leaving, Colin is warned that Paris is full of spies, and Jewel might be one of them. She wouldn’t be the first to play on a soldier’s feelings to gain information or capture. He pushes on, but arrives in Paris to discover Jewell isn’t there. Instead, another woman claims to want to take Colin to her, but is she a spy? A simple meeting turns into an escapade that will include journeying through many areas with people he shouldn’t trust, with others he should, but not always picking the right ones. He rubs shoulders with notorious spies, traitors, and attempts to save something that just might end the war.

This is a thrilling story that will open the eyes of readers to what it was like to be a part of WWI, including fun information about how much homing pigeons helped the war effort. It is easy to put yourself in the shoes of Colin, and understand how he feels. A romance develops that seems doomed the more the story develops, and the entire tale is told from a very clear Christian point of view. I enjoyed this 5-star book and recommend it to lovers of history, thrillers, and romance.Bethany House Publishing has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of Far Side of the Sea, 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://katebreslin.com
The Author’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KateBreslinAuthor?fref=ts
The Author’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/@Kate_Breslin

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Giveaway! “A Mountain Worth Moving” by Amanda Mason

Posted on March 22, 2019 by Becky

I have very exciting news.  Amanda Mason, the author of A Mountain Worth Moving, is providing a copy of her book for a giveaway.  As I wrote earlier, this is one of the best books I have read.  Now the winner of this giveaway will have a chance to see just how special this 5-star story is.

The following is a summary of the book:  John Mitchell has given up an enjoyable life in the city that included dating and a career, so he can run his family’s sprawling ranch. He is also taking care of his family–which consists of his mother who spends all of her time taking care of his invalid brother, as well as, his alcoholic and trouble causing brother.  Because of all this, John has no life of his own, and he can hardly bare the weight of it all.  However, feels he deserves it because he is responsible for something so terrible, he can never make up for it.  John seems to be the only one to fear a therapist may cause them all to fall into a deeper pit of despair and trouble.

Read how the author weaves these tragic circumstances into an amazing story that will fill you with joy—and it is all told from a Christian point of view.  (You can read my complete review here:  http://bookreadingtic.com/2019/03/13/a-mountain-worth-moving-by-amanda-mason/ )

Want a chance to find out how this exciting story plays out?  Enter by following the instructions in the Rafflecopter below.  Your email address will be used to contact you if you win, and will not be passed on.  The best of luck to you.  You must be a resident in the continental USA and 18 or older to enter. Only one entrant is allowed per mailing address, per giveaway.  No purchase necessary! *  Winner is subject to eligibility verification. Giveaways only valid in continental USA.

*See Disclaimer Section in above drop-down heading under picture.

This giveaway is now over.

Thanks to everyone who entered!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

Posted in Giveaways | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 11 Comments

“Good News! It’s Easter!” by Glenys Nellist

Posted on March 18, 2019 by Becky

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Easter Wonders for Children!

This darling oversized board book takes children on a tour of the miracles going on in the world around them.   Flowers dressed in pretty colors pop out of the dark earth into the sunshine.  Caterpillars enter cocoons to come out as butterflies with beautiful wings that glide through the air.  The best news of all, Jesus comes out of the tomb to give everyone who believes in Him the gift of a forever home in Heaven—and Easter is born.Children will find enchanting verses that captures spring’s exciting new beginnings with things such as jumping frogs and hopping bunnies.  The author tells the story beautifully in language simple enough for little children to understand.  Small hands can easily grip the thick pages while looking at the beautifully colored illustrations throughout the volume.  

This would be a nice addition to an Easter basket, or a gift at anytime.  Despite the book being about Easter and spring, it is a fun story little ones will want to read year-round.  This is the first in a series of three books, and I highly recommend this delightful five-star book to the young children in your life.

Discovery House of Our Daily Bread Ministries has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of Good News! It’s 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.

The Author’s Website:  https://www.glenysnellist.com/celebrating-the-release-of-good-news-its-easter-with-a-three-book-giveaway/

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

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

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

“A Mountain Worth Moving” by Amanda Mason

Posted on March 13, 2019 by Becky

Losing it All, but Getting Everything!

John Mitchell has a lot on his plate.  At one time, he had a good life in the city, with a job that allowed him to have a nice place to live, and a good social life.  But now, he is in charge of taking care of his family’s sprawling ranch, along with supporting his mom who is the sole care-taker of his invalid brother, Ben.  Additionally, John is constantly bailing out his other brother, an alcoholic who causes all kinds of destruction and trouble.  He takes care of everyone, but himself.  However, this hard life is okay because in John’s mind, he is responsible for something so horrible that he deserves it.

His mom is excited about a special program for injuries like Ben’s that has had almost miraculous results; she is pushing for them to do it.  The program is difficult to get into, and even harder to stay once in.  Thinking Ben is beyond help, John doesn’t want false hopes.  Things that haven’t worked out in the past have left the family so discouraged that John fears this is going to have the same outcome.  He takes his frustration out on Jill, a kind therapist in the program, furiously accusing her of having an ulterior motive.  John doesn’t think a happy life is possible for any of the Mitchells.

Despite the anger, disasters and bitterness the characters face, the author is able to contrive a really wonderful solution that is both satisfying and happy—and she does it from a Christian point of view.  This is a clean and powerful story; it is also one of the best books I have ever read.  I highly recommend you get a copy as soon as possible.  If there was a rating higher than five, I would give it to A Mountain Worth Moving.  This story will pull you in from the very beginning, and you will be hooked until the last page. Treat yourself to this 5++ tale!

The author has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of A Mountain Worth Moving, 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.

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

“Between Two Shores” by Jocelyn Green

Posted on February 19, 2019 by Becky

A Sweeping Historical Tale

Catherine Duvall is living in the 1700’s and is surrounded by conflict in her family, her country and even herself.   Growing up, she had no peace because of her Mohawk mother’s and French father’s constant arguing.   Her mixed heritage makes her feel torn between two peoples. While her homeland is in upheaval because the French and British are fighting each other for possession of the land.  The war has caused deprivation and near starvation for Catherine.

After her mother’s death, Catherine left the Mohawk people and moved in with her alcoholic father, who mistreated her despite her trying to take care of him.   Catherine has also suffered being called a savage or half-breed by those around her.

Years after Catherine’s fiancé leaves, he reappears.  Without asking forgiveness or explaining his absence, he wants Catherine to help him with something that will be both difficult for her, and put her life in danger.  Against her sibling’s wishes, she sets out with people that may or may not be trustworthy, where she is exposed to a multitude of hardships.  Despite all the bad things Catherine endures, she has a good heart, and continues to try to help others.  Her story takes place against the background of true historical events. 

The author writes beautifully, and from a Christian point of view.   A hint about this story will be found in the words uttered by the tale’s characters when they say, “some stories don’t end the way we want them to.” Be aware, there are a lot of sad times and descriptions of difficult situations in this book, along with in-depth accounts of historical events and the countryside.

I would have enjoyed this story much more if the detailed descriptions throughout the book had been pared-down.   Be sure to look at the “5 Things You Didn’t Know About Between Two Shores.” You will learn how this story ties into the movie, Casablanca and West Side Story, along with many other interesting tidbits!  I recommend this 4-star book to those who enjoy in-depth historical fiction.

Bethany House Publishing has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of Between Two Shores, 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:    www.jocelyngreen.com

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

The Author’s Twitter:   https://twitter.com/jocelyngreen77

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Lucy and Joe’s Hot Chocolate: A Book Review Recipe

Posted on February 14, 2019 by Becky

 

This recipe appeared in my review book, The Christmas Edition: A Journey to Paradise by Robin Shope.  Enjoy this drink any time of the year, but it is especially good now in the winter!

2 cups whole milk

4 tsp sugar

1 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped

1 oz unsweetened chocolate, chopped

1 tsp brown sugar

A splash of vanilla

Real whipped cream

Heat everything in a saucepan, except the vanilla, until the chocolate melts and the sugar dissolves. Pour half into a blender and mix until foamy. Return to the saucepan and add vanilla. Stir briefly and then serve with three inches of whipped cream.

Posted in Book Review Recipes | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

“The Christmas Edition A Journey to Paradise” by Robin Shope

Posted on February 7, 2019 by Becky

Too Good to be True?

Despite the joy of the Christmas season, Lucy Collins can feel the shadow of hard times approaching The Turtle Creek Newspaper.  Started by her grandfather, and still run by her family, the newspaper is about to get competition.  A big company that has caused other newspapers to close is moving to her small town.  Unless a miracle happens, Lucy is afraid her family business will be gone.

Out of nowhere, Joe McNamara appears in their office, and takes the job as editor.  Everything he does turns to gold.  Because of his popular style of writing along with his ability to charm lots of new advertisers to bring much needed revenue to the paper, Lucy thinks they might have a fighting chance to survive.

But Joe is surrounded by mystery and it appears they might be the undoing of them all.  When Lucy accuses him of betraying the newspaper he disappears as suddenly he appears.

This not an ordinary romance story.  Joe’s secrets will keep you wondering what he is all about throughout the story.  Just when it seems the tale will end in a predictable way, it takes a twist and delivers a surprise ending.  I liked this book a lot, and even more so since it was written from a Christian viewpoint.  Even though the book is set during the Christmas season it can be enjoyed year-round.  The five-star book is recommended for anyone who enjoys fiction.

Pelican Book Group has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of The Christmas Edition, for 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 Blog:   http://theserialwritingsofrobinjansen.blogspot.com/

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“Raising Giant Killers” by Bill Johnson

Posted on January 31, 2019 by Becky

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Give Your Children an Amazing Life

Maybe the stork has just dropped off a new baby at your home, and you wonder what to do.  Or perhaps you have teenagers that you want to have a life that is all that God intended for them? This book is for any of you.  Whether you are just starting out as newbies to parenting, or a seasoned parent, this volume has good advice for everyone.

Along with making sure of your children’s salvation, guide them to the lavish life God intended for them.  Jesus said of His coming “My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life—an abundant life.” 

If you want your children to live an overcoming life, not just have life overcome them, look to the example of David killing Goliath.  Even though David was out matched physically by Goliath, David leaned on God for his strength and was victorious.  Prepare your children to face the giants in their life by training them to rely on God when things get hard.  Make sure their focus is on God’s ability to help them rather than their own inability to do something.  Teach them they are strong because God empowers them.  You can start training your children to understand this when they are young, but it is never too late to start. 

As a parent, you must follow these guidelines, too.  Using your self as an example is the best way to teach your children.  Tell them when you trusted God in hard situations, and how the Lord’s help made you triumphant.  Include praise to God as a way to rid feelings of despair, and to build faith.   Follow the precepts in this volume and both parents and children will enjoy the fullness God.  Our faith will be strengthened to call on in both good times and bad.

Don’t forget to look at the book’s appendix.  It is loaded with lots more treasure.  For instance, in Ten Things I Wanted My Children to Know, learn to teach children responsibility for their own choices.  If a child says, “he makes me so mad,” respond with “he didn’t make you mad, that was your own choice.” 

This book makes a lot of good points.  Following them may be hard to do for both the parent or the child, but a richer life will be the result.  It can all be done by asking God for help.  Some of the rewards the author used would be different in my family’s situation, but I would still include something that would be  highly prized.  I recommend this 5-star book to anyone wanting to enrich the life of a child, or even their own.

Chosen Books has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of Raising Giant Killers, 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:   http://bjm.org/

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

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

 

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“God Made Daddy Special” by Glenys Nellist

Posted on January 20, 2019 by Becky

Illustrated by Estelle Corke

 

Put this on Your Must-Have List!

This lovely book is about human dads, along with dads from the animal kingdom.  All children are curious about dads, so this book will catch little one’s attention right away.  The author captures the love human and animal dads have for their youngsters through delightful rhyming verses that will enchant children.  She demonstrates the special relationship that exists between the dad’s and their children that are easily understood by little ones. The section where the daddy skunk teaches his baby kit how to use their “perfume” will cause your child to roll with glee.  Most of all, the book emphasizes that dads are a gift from God.This cute, adorable and funny book is not to be missed.  Once you take a look at it, you will not want to put it down.  God Made Daddy Special is over-sized board book with padded covers that feel really nice to the touch of children and adults alike.  This is a darling volume for either boys or girls up to five years old.  I highly recommend this 5-plus star book!The Author’s Website:   https://www.glenysnellist.com/god-made-mommy-special-god-made-daddy-special/

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

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

 

 

 

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“Snuggle Time Bible Stories” by Glenys Nellist, Illustrations by Cee Biscoe

Posted on January 18, 2019 by Becky

Awesome Memories Await!

Want a way for your child to enjoy God’s word at their level?  Grab this cute little board book along with a blanket, and you are all set! 

The author is a master of writing Bible stories in a way that a young child would understand them, without losing the point God intended.  Condensed versions of the stories come from both the Old and New Testaments, and include Noah and the Ark, Jesus feeding a multitude, the lost sheep, along with many more.  All the writing is done in a rhyming way that is sure to tickle the ears of children and readers alike.  For example, the book starts out this way:

This little book you’re holding

Tells stories that are true.

You’ll find them in the Bible,

They’re written just for you.

 

 And as you turn the pages,

There’s something you should know.

This book has one big message-

God really loves you so!

 

This adorable book is just right for snuggling with a little one in a comfy place.  There is a nice assortment of short Bible stories, that makes Snuggle Time just the thing if dreamland comes quickly for your little listener.  However, there are more stories for longer sessions.  The padded cover will feel good for tiny fingers to hold while gazing at the brightly colored illustrations on each page.   Most of all, the book emphasizes the love God has for us all.  Get this book and make some nice memories with the little one in your life.  I recommend this lovely 5-star book to anyone wanting a book for children up to five years old.

Zonderkidz has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of Snuggle Time Bible Stories, 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/celebrating-the-release-of-snuggle-time-bible-stories-with-a-three-book-giveaway/

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

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

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment