“Mark of the Raven” by Morgan L. Busse

Posted on November 10, 2018 by Becky

Flight of the Raven!

Lady Selene was born with two things, a large mark on her back in the shape of a raven, and a home in a castle.  Living in this castle is not bright and beautiful.  Just the opposite, in fact, all is not well in the House of Ravenwood.  Ancient treachery by the other houses towards Ravenwood has caused her mother, Lady Ragna, a cold unfeeling woman, to be bitter.  She justifies things Selene doesn’t feel good about.  According to her mother, the raven shaped mark means Selene has a secret power.   One the rest of the houses believe died out long ago—because of their past betrayal. Only recently has Selene discovered what a life-changing effect that power will have on her.  Despite her mother’s claims of good for the people of Ravenwood, the power along with the changes she has had to make in her life does not feel right.  Reluctantly, however, Selene has been obeying her mother.

Now a common enemy has caused representatives of all the Houses to meet.  In fact, their discussions will be held in Selene’s castle. Her mother, Lady Ragna, will be the representative for Ravenwood.  The young Lord Damien desperately wants all the houses to unite.  Damien believes the strength of a united bond could not be broken by the threat coming their way.

Secretly, Lady Ragna is doing all she can to sabotage the uniting of the houses. Selene finds herself with the dilemma of either following her mother’s instructions, or going against them.  Can she be bold enough to refuse what her mother wants?  Or should she continue doing her mother’s will despite the toll it is taking on her life?  Is it true that Selene’s power is the only thing that is helping the people of her land survive?

Intrigue, violence, and possible expulsion or death will follow.  The future might even hold love for Selene.  This book is part of the Ravenwood Saga, and the story stands alone.  However, this tale will leave you wanting more adventures, and I look forward to a future installment.

I am not a reader of fantasy books.  Other than the famous works by J. R. R. Tolkien, I never pick up a book in that genre…until now.  Once I started reading this tale, though, I couldn’t put it down. This book is clean, and done from a Christian point of view.  God is mentioned throughout this story, but He goes by another name in this tale of fantasy.  I highly recommend this 5-star book to readers of fantasy and well-written fiction.

Bethany House Publishing has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of Mark 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 Website:   www.morganlbusse.com

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

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

 

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

Giveaway & Review of Steven Curtis Chapman’s Christmas CD + Book “An Endless Christmas” by Cynthia Ruchti

Posted on November 1, 2018 by Becky

All I Really Want for Christmas a CD by Steven Curtis Chapman

On this CD, Steven Curtis Chapman sings such festive songs as I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day, Go Tell it on the Mountain, Silver Bells and eleven more holiday favorites. Also included is a reading of the Christmas story from the book of Luke.  Steven Curtis Chapman is singing at his finest on this CD.

If you haven’t heard him before, you have a treat in store.  Or if you are already a fan, connect again with Steven in this Christmas rendering.  Either way, this Steven Curtis Chapman music will bring you joy, while these seasonal favorites will underscore the real meaning of Christmas.  What better way to get in the holiday mood than to listen to great Christmas songs while wrapping packages, trimming the tree or just relaxing?

An Endless Christmas a book by Cynthia Ruchti

Imagine your boyfriend asks you to spend Christmas with him and his family.  This will not be a small group.  All of his extended family, including his grandparents will be there, and you have never met any of them.  You agree to journey with him to the remote farm that will be hosting this Christmas gathering.

Once there, you nervously walk into a room full of strangers.  As all eyes turn to you, your boyfriend leads you to the Christmas tree where an engagement ring is tied to a branch.  Without any warning, and in front of everyone, your boyfriend stuns you by asking you to marry him.  Even though you are in an awkward situation, it becomes even more uncomfortable when you tell him no.

That is the circumstance Katie finds herself in with her boyfriend Micah Binder.  Katie not only finds herself in this difficult situation, it is even more embarrassing since it is witnessed by all of the Binder family.  Since it had already been arranged that Katie would be staying with Micah’s family, she is forced to be with the Binders for the next few days.

Up until Katie said no, the Binder’s were having a picture-perfect celebration with festive decorations, all of the family was gathered in a loving group, and the smells of good food wafted through the air.  But everything changed when Katie said no.  Since Katie feels she has now put a damper on everyone’s Christmas celebration, will she or any of them, be able to enjoy themselves?

An Endless Christmas is written from a Christian point of view, and the characters will pull you into their story.  Many readers can identify with being in an awkward situation themselves, so they can imagine what it would be like to have this happen.  I recommend this 5-star book for those who enjoy tales set during the Christmas season, or well-written stories.

Want a chance to get in the holiday mood by winning this Christmas CD and book? First, my blog must be followed to enter this giveaway.   Go to the upper right side of this page and follow my blog.  Then note in the Rafflecopter your email address, and that you have followed me, or you already are a follower.  I will use your email address to contact you if you win, and will not pass it on.  The best of luck to you.  You must be a resident in the continental USA and 18 or older to enter.  No purchase necessary! *

Only one entrant is allowed per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from Walking with Jesus in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win.   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 Book Reviews, Giveaways, TV, Movie & Audio Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 9 Comments

“Easter Love Letters from God Bible Stories” by Glenys Nellist

Posted on October 30, 2018 by Becky

 

For the Rest of the Story…

If you are looking for a book about Easter than contains something more than chocolate rabbits and hard-boiled eggs, Easter Love Letters from God is for you.  Despite the lack of candy, this volume is sure to become a well-loved favorite.

This great book is written for young children to explain the meaning of Holy Week, and help them understand the sacrifice Jesus made for all mankind.  The underlying theme of the love God has for all of us, and the way Jesus demonstrated that love, is clearly shown throughout the book.

Ms. Nellist has an enchanting style of writing Bible stories; she does it in a very understandable and memorable way.  Fun things are included, too.  This very child friendly book includes “love letters” –flaps that can be moved to show letters from God written for the reader.  This unique addition to the story is sure to bring smiles to the faces of the little ones viewing the book.

Each page of the book has colorful illustrations by Sophie Allsopp that blend with the written story making it even more powerful.  Additionally, go here and you can get a free download that goes with the book.  It is a Resource and Activity Pack that will guide you through each of the seven days.  Included are daily prayers, conversation starters and free activities.

Often Bible stories are told in a way that will appeal to adult ears.  This narrative is written in a way that will make the story understandable for little children.  The author is truly fulfilling Jesus’ advice in Luke to “let the little children come to me, and don’t stop them, because the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.”  I highly recommend this 5-star book especially during the Easter season, but it is a great book to read anytime with, or for, children!

 

The Author’s Website:  https://www.glenysnellist.com/introducing-easter-love-letters-from-god/

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

“‘Twas the Evening of Christmas” by Glenys Nellist

Posted on October 23, 2018 by Becky

Illustrated by Elena Selivanova

The True Story!

Delightful and charming.  Those things will come to mind when you read this Christmas book.  Written similar to the style and rhythm of Clement Moore’s, ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, this children’s book tells the actual story of Jesus’ birth.  This fun to read poem will capture the attention of boys and girls.  They will have fun rolling the rhymes off their tongues while hearing the story of that long-ago night. Captivating illustrations will also catch their eye.  The picture that shows the view the angels must have had while in the night sky is lovely.  But I also liked the Wise Men; Mary, Joseph and Jesus together; the angels appearing in the sky; the front cover; the back cover; they are all good.  You will have to get the book yourself and decide which picture you like the best!

‘Twas the Evening of Christmas is an attractive hardback book, over-sized with embossing, gold foil and rich colors decorating the book’s cover.  Every page contains colorful pictures and is geared toward children aged four to eight years old.  However, much younger children will enjoy looking at this book, and having the story read to them.  In the same way, children older than eight will also like viewing this volume. ‘Twas the Evening of Christmas is a 2018 ECPA Christian Book Award Finalist.

What better way for children to learn the true Christmas story than with a catchy rhyme.  I highly recommend this beautiful children’s book to everyone who enjoys Christmas stories.  A great tradition could be started by reading this book to the child in your life every Christmas season.

The author has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of ‘Twas the Evening of Christmas.   All opinions expressed in this review 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://www.glenysnellist.com/?subscribe=success#blog_subscription-3

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

“Shelter of the Most High” by Connilyn Cossett

Posted on October 22, 2018 by Becky

A Place of Safety?

Beautiful Sofea and her wounded cousin Prezi, find themselves starved and running for their lives in an unknown land.  To make it worse, they were too weak to fight when a threatening looking group of warriors discovered them.  Instead of killing them or worse, the men journey with the two girls to the Hebrew city of Kedesh.  In ancient Israel, if a manslayer survived the journey to a city of refuge, they can live in safety and not be punished unless they leave that town’s boundaries.  Kedesh is one such city, with a large population of manslayers.

Since the cousins had assumed the Hebrews were going to make them slaves or human sacrifices, the girls are relieved to find that had never been planned.  In fact, the two have been treated like guests in the household they have stayed in.  Because of the language barrier Eitan waited to communicate his feelings to Sofea until the girls had learned some Hebrew words.  After months of waiting, he decided to try.

Just when the cousin’s lives seem to be settling down in this new land, the two are catapulted into a life and death situation.  There is a small chance they could gain their safety, but only if Sofea will do an unthinkable act.  If Sofea complies, will they get their freedom, or will they be killed by a madman?  Can the Hebrew God help them?  Would Eitan risk his freedom to leave Kedesh to save them?

I love books that present a story of “what might have been….” using situations from the Bible.  This book not only supplies that, but this exciting tale will draw you in and keep you on the edge of your seat—right up to the last page.  This solid story has nothing offensive in it and is written from a Biblical point of view.  Although Shelter of the Most High is the second installment in the Cities of Refuge series, this story stands alone.  Anyone who enjoys well-written tales of intrigue with a dash of romance and history will love this 5+ star book, and I highly recommend it.

Bethany House Publishing has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of Shelter of the Most High, 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.connilyncossette.com

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

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

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

Gluten-Free Apple Pork Rice Skillet

Posted on October 19, 2018 by Becky

You don’t have to be gluten-free to like this!

  • 2 lbs Ground Pork
  • 2 teaspoons dried Basil
  • 2 teaspoons Sea Salt, divided
  • ¼ teaspoon Ground Pepper
  • 2 teaspoons Italian Spice
  • 1 Tablespoon chopped Garlic
  • 2 teaspoons Cumin
  • 1 Onion, finely chopped
  • 4 Stalks Celery, finely chopped
  • 4 Large Apples, peeled, cored & cutup
  • 2 Cups + 1 cup Gluten-Free Chicken Broth
  • 2 Cups Apple Juice, unsweetened
  • 2 Tablespoons Swerve or sweetener of choice
  • Pepper to taste
  • 2 Cups uncooked Rice (not instant), we like Jasmine
  • 1 Cup frozen Cauliflower Rice
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons Tabasco Buffalo Sauce*
  • 1 Tablespoon butter
  • Fresh Cilantro, if desired

Cook riced cauliflower until very soft.  Cook it covered in a microwave safe dish, 8 to 10 minutes on high in the microwave.  Remove and set aside.

Add Buffalo Sauce to 1 cup chicken broth, stir well and set aside.

In saucepan, bring 2 cups apple juice, 2 cups chicken broth, 1 tablespoon butter and ½ teaspoon sea salt to a boil over medium high heat.  Reduce heat to medium.  Stir in 2 cups uncooked rice, making sure all the grains are covered completely, no dry rice.  Cover with lid and turn to low heat.  Cook for 10 minutes.  Remove from heat, but keeping lid on, let it sit for 10 minutes.  Remove lid and fluff rice with a fork. Make sure the rice is completely done and soft.  Set aside.

In large skillet over medium heat, sauté onion, celery, remaining ½ teaspoon sea salt, ground pepper & pork.  Stir often, breaking up meat into little pieces while stirring.  Cook about 15 minutes.  Drain or spoon off grease, there will be a lot.  Stir in well the apples along with cooked cauliflower.  Add Buffalo/chicken broth mixture.  Stir in basil, Italian spice, garlic, Swerve, cumin & fresh Cilantro, if desired.  Cook and stir about 10 minutes until veggies are tender & pork is cooked.  When most of the liquid in the skillet is absorbed, stir in rice completely and cook for one minute.  Serve.

*We use McIlhenny Co. TABASCO Brand Buffalo Style Hot Sauce

Always make sure all ingredients used are gluten-free.

 

Posted in Gluten Free Recipes, Gluten-Free Main Dishes | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

“Lethal Target” by Janice Cantore

Posted on October 13, 2018 by Becky

 

Modern Problems?

Legalizing marijuana solves everyone’s problems, right?  That’s what the supporters of the new legalization have said.  But the residents of the small community of Rogue’s Hollow disagree.  They have been up in arms ever since Hang Ten, a pot farm, opened in their area after the legislation passed.  Ever since then, things have taken a downturn.

Threatening looking people have started showing up in town.  Supposedly, their purpose is to work security at Hang Ten.  Townspeople have started disappearing.  Additionally, a boy who had everything going for him is found dead.  Supposedly he died of an overdose, even though he very vocally spoke out against drugs.  But was he really murdered?

An instigator from Los Angles arrives who despises the new Police Chief, Tess O’Rouke. He lives to spread hate towards the chief, stalking her all over town while bad mouthing her.  A controversial case from her previous location, along with all the accusations from the instigator, cause people to question her honesty.  Then, a dead body shows up on her front porch.  Is Tess corrupt and behind the death, or is she being framed?  Is Hang Ten to blame for all the bad things that have happened?

This is an exciting book that is hard to put down. Great characters make this tale even better, and the reader will be surprised at the end.  This great tale contains nothing offensive, and is written from a Christian viewpoint. Lethal Target is part of the Pacific Coast Justice series, but this story stands on its own. I highly recommend this 5-star book.

Tyndale House Publishing has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of Lethal Target, 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/JaniceCantore

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

The Author’s Website:  www.janicecantore.com

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

Giveaway & Review of “Horse Gentler in Training, Winnie: The Early Years,” by Dandi Daley Mackall

Posted on October 6, 2018 by Becky

Just Horsing Around!

When you were a child, would you have liked to have had a horse to ride?  Eight-year-old Winnie does and she loves it.  But her family’s future at their ranch depends on a horse that is boarded there, and keeping it from leaving.

The horse owner’s son, Austin, is in the same class at school as Winnie.  He takes every opportunity to taunt her that he is trying to convince his dad to take their horse somewhere else.  Winnie often takes the bait, and gets herself into a variety of predicaments.

The author mixes fun times into the story along with situations when Winnie is tempted to do the wrong thing.  Children will be able to identify with Winnie who wants to save her family’s business, but doesn’t always do it the right way.  They will also understand what it is like to have a mean classmate like Austin.

This is a cute tale that shows the consequences of lying, as well as, the importance of thinking things through before trying to change things.  Bible principles are seamlessly included in the story.  The ending proves that:

“What is impossible for people, is possible with God.”

The grade level suggested is Preschool to third grade, but I think children a few years older will still enjoy this book. This is the second installment of the series Winnie: The Early Years, but the story stands on its own.  A handy section in the back of the volume contains horse terms and breeds.  Cute illustrations are sprinkled throughout the tale.  The author, a lifelong horse lover, includes a touching glimpse of the horse she had as a child.  You don’t have to be a fan of horses to like Horse Gentler in Training.  I recommend this 5-star book for any of the children in your life.Enter the Giveaway Here:

Tyndale House is holding a giveaway where you can get a chance to win a copy of each of the Winnie: The Early Years chapter books!  Enter here:  https://wn.nr/J2dQrw

Tyndale House Publishing has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of Horse Gentler in Training, Winnie: The Early Years, 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.dandibooks.com

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/dandi.mackall?fref=ts

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

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

“Second-Chance Dogs” edited by Callie Smith Grant

Posted on October 2, 2018 by Becky

True Stories of the Dogs We Rescue and the Dogs Who Rescue Us

Have you had a dog touch your life in a way that you will never forget?  Those are the experiences that are shared in this collection of thirty-six reminiscences about dogs and the people who loved them.

I felt a kinship to the story-tellers because many of them write about a dog smiling.  Growing up with dogs, I had often seen a dog do that.  Later, I was unprepared for the blank looks I got from people when I mentioned a dog’s grin.  But in this group of stories, the authors often refer to a dog’s smile.

One of the story’s reference to Gotcha Day reminded me of the time a little girl was adopted by my good friend’s family.  Until then, I hadn’t known “Gotcha Day” is the term used for the actual day the judge grants the adoption, and makes everything legal. Because of its importance that date is often celebrated yearly, just like a birthday.  When I saw one of the stories entitled Gotcha Day, I immediately knew how special, and important, it was to that family to have their dog join them.

Every story in Second-Chance Dogs is clean, and some mention faith.  The tales range from the family dog, to soldiers and their canine comrades, to rescue dogs that help in a variety of situations.  None of them take more than a few minutes to read. Some will make you laugh and others may bring a tear to your eye.  I do wish a larger size font was used for the text, but it doesn’t take away from these heartfelt stories.  Any dog lover, or fan of true stories, will appreciate this book.

Revell Publishing has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of Second-Chance Dogs, 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.

Callie Smith Grant has edited a number of animal books including:  The Cat on My Lap, The Cat in the Window, The Dog Next Door, and The Dog at My Feet.

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

“Shadows from the Past” by Ashley Dawn

Posted on September 20, 2018 by Becky

About the Book:

Title: Shadows from the Past
Author:  Ashley Dawn
Genre:   Christian Mystery & Suspense
Release Date: November 27, 2016

Synopsis of the Book Cover:

“…It is the price you pay for choosing to be a cop. Your brother’s life…”

Those words haunt her dreams, and her waking moments. LAPD officer, Aurora Kavvan cannot rest until she finds her brother’s killer. Digging into the past always brings back unpleasant things: memories, guilt…the hit man. Now she is in a race against time to find the murderer before he finds her.

“Kill her. I don’t care how, and I don’t care where, but I want her dead now!”

Someone was trying to kill his dead partner’s sister. FBI agent, Jordan Reiley will stop at nothing to protect the woman he loves. Even if it means going against her wishes; putting himself between her and the man who murdered her brother.

Will God keep them alive long enough for them to find the truth?

You can purchase it here:  https://amzn.to/2tL10wG

My Review: 

There are two stories happening at the same time in this book.  The first, is the mystery of who shot and killed Aurora’s brother, Lance, and why.  The author creates a lot of suspense in this tale, and does a good job keeping secret the identity of the co-conspirator who set Lance up.

Secondly, this is the story of the relationship of Aurora and her ex-fiancé, Joe.  A lot of space is devoted to Aurora and Joe mulling through the break-up of their engagement, along with the current state of their relationship.  Less emphasis on the build-up of their trouble, and more development of the solution would strengthen the story.

Using transitions when thoughts change from one character to another would make a smoother, and less complicated tale.  There were times when I was confused about whose thoughts I was reading because the change of characters was so abrupt.

The Message:

I really liked the message in this story.  The author made it clear that although people will let you down, God never will.  When others disappoint, turn to God for comfort and help.  This story’s characters found that problems in their lives were a lot bigger when they turned their backs on God.  Individuals found it was never too late to renew, or start, a relationship with Him. They discovered God is always waiting to be asked to be included in their lives.  As Psalm 94 says, “When I was upset and beside myself, you calmed me down and cheered me up.” The message of faith, and how it played out in the character’s lives, added a welcome wholesomeness to the tale.

About the Author:

Ashley Dawn was born and raised in rural Arkansas where she developed her love for writing while helping in her parent’s office. She graduated with an accounting degree from the University of Central Arkansas but is currently working as a legal assistant.

Ashley has been writing professionally for the past twelve years and has three published books. Her Shadows Series include Shadows from The Past, Shadows of Suspicion, Shadows of Pain, and Shadows of Deception. She is currently working on multiple projects including the fifth in her ‘Shadows’ series entitled “Shadows in Black and White,” along with a standalone suspense titled, ‘One of Their Own’. She and her family make their home in Texas.

The Author’s Facebook:  www.facebook.com/authorashleydawn

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

The Author’s Website:  www.ashleydawn-author.com

Celebrate Lit has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of Shadows from the Past, 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 , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment