“The Memory Weaver” by Jane Kirkpatrick

Posted on October 15, 2015 by Becky

Book Cover The Memory Weaver

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Life in the Old West

This story is based on true events that took place during the 1800’s in the American West.  Eliza Spalding and her Christian Missionary parents, happily lived among the Nez Perce people until she was ten years old.  At that time, Eliza and a group of people were terrorized, and held captive by another tribe for over a month.

After that, despite protests by both the Spalding Family and the Nez Perce, the mission Mission Church Free Usage - Copyboard demanded the Spaldings leave their beloved ministry to the Native Americans.  Giving up his life’s work followed closely by the death of his wife, caused Eliza’s father, Henry, to become short tempered and caustic.

Family expectations…

Most of the household duties and care of her younger siblings, fell on Eliza’s shoulders.  Henry decides Eliza should remain single and become his ministry partner.  His eventual hope is to return to the Nez Perce.

Instead, wanting to set her own course, teenager Eliza jumps into marriage with Andrew Warren.  Unbeknownst to her, Andrew has both a drinking and a gambling problem.  Also, her husband has a wandering spirit, and hoping to make a lot of money, wants to move the family hundreds of miles away to raise cattle.  The place he chooses will be very close to the area where Eliza was held captive all those years ago.  She still suffers almost constant nightmares about that time, and it is the last place she wants to go.  Andrew also decides that Eliza and their two young children can make this wagon trek alone–he claims he must go ahead without them.

One choice can change the course of your life.

Covered Wagon Free Usage - CopyEliza has to make the decision whether she will follow her not always reliable husband, or remain behind to make a life without him.  The last choice is what her father demands that she choose.  Henry constantly tells her what a mistake she has made by marrying Andrew. This story covers Eliza’s choices, along with the ups and downs she has with her father, husband and family.

She has a lot of exciting and amazing adventures.  This book really brings them to life.  It also includes the relationships her family has with the Nez Perce people.  This includes the tender love they have for the Nez Perce tribe, along with the feeling of betrayal Eliza has for those she once considered family.

Even though this story is about real people and true historical events, it is a fictional account.  But this is not a dry, history book, just the opposite.  Eliza’s life story has a lot going on.  The author also does an amazing job of getting the reader inside Eilza’s head.  Because of that, you understand how she views the world along with her hopes and fears.  That makes this tale really come alive, and it is hard to put the book down.  I recommend this 5-star book to those who enjoy books based on real historical people and their lives, or anyone who likes a well-written book.

The publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of The Memory Weaver through Revell Publishing for the purpose of review.  All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal.  Despite my receiving the book free, it has not influenced my judgment.

Author’s Website:  www.jkbooks.com

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

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

Author’s Pinterest:  https://www.pinterest.com/janekirkpatrick/

 

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“Murder at the Courthouse” by A. H. Gabhart

Posted on October 14, 2015 by Becky

Book Cover Murder at the Courthouse two

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Murder in Mayberry?

Well, not quite, but Hidden Springs, Kentucky, could be its twin.  As a small southern town where everyone knows everybody, nothing ever happens without the whole town knowing it in minutes.  Crime is so rare the local newspaper has trouble filling its weekly publication with anything more than human interest stories.  That is until the day a stranger is found murdered on the steps of the courthouse in broad daylight.Shrug Panda Free Usage

The plot thickens even more when no one claims to have seen a thing.  In the town where nobody misses a thing, yet there are no witnesses?  At least that is what everyone is saying.

Do you remember?

The deputy sheriff, Michael Keane, doesn’t believe that.  But as he tries to find out the truth, his job is made more difficult by the bumbling  sheriff, and surprisingly, Michael’s own past.  As a teenager, an accident took the life of both his parents, and left Michael with a large memory loss.  As he works on this murder case, he feels those lost memories are starting to stir, but they remain just out of reach of his mind.

Three more things complicate Michael’s life.  First, the return of his childhood sweetheart, Heart with Love Inside Free Use - CopyAlex.  Next, the local newspaper editor who is dogging all his steps, determined to get some hard news for the paper.  And finally, the teenager Anthony that the entire town claims is nothing but trouble, but Michael has a feeling that might not be completely true.  Before it is all through, even more mysterious happenings take place in  Hidden Springs.

This is the guilty one, or maybe not….

This is a great mystery with an interesting story that kept me guessing “whodunit” to the end.  Murder at the Courthouse is the first in The Hidden Springs Mysteries, and I look forward to future installments.  However, this story definitely stands on its own.  This 5-star book is done from a Christian viewpoint, and has lots of intriguing characters.  I really enjoyed it, and highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys well-written, wholesome mysteries.

The publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of Murder at the Courthouse through Revell Publishing for the purpose of review.  All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal.  Despite my receiving the book free, it has not influenced my judgment.

The Author’s Blog:  http://www.annhgabhart.com/category/one-writers-journal/

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

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

The Author’s Pinterest:  https://www.pinterest.com/annhgabhart/

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“What Love Looks Like” by James W. Goll

Posted on October 13, 2015 by Becky

Book Cover What Love Looks Like

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Love of God

This book contains the true stories of twelve different people who are all involved in Christian ministry.  It is their account of the worst times in their lives, and how God broke through to help them.

Many of the incidents described are dreadful.  The situations run the gamut of living in horrific physical conditions, health crises that sometimes lead to death, or abandonment–physical, emotional or financial.  Some people also endured the harsh criticism of fellow believers and friends.

Then in the midst of this, something changed, and they all received fresh strength.  God Heart Shape Leaf and Sun Shining Through Free Usetouched them in a new way with His love, and that love manifested itself differently for each person.  In some, it took away despair, grief or hopelessness.  Others received the ability to greatly love those who had caused them to be ostracized, condemned or abandoned.

Some of the authors are still living through a difficult and trying time, their breakthrough did not involve removing them from a dire condition. But the touch of God, and feeling the power of His love, has made it possible for them to continue to minister to others–and to want to do so.

In other situations, love has made not only a big difference for the author personally, but has turned situations around.  Relationships that most people would believe were completely broken, with no chance of reconciliation, have been repaired.  Deep wounds between people have been mended through love, and those individuals are now working together joyfully.Heart Shape Two Hands with Sun Rays Free Use

The compiler called this a “raw book” and it is just that. This book’s subtitle refers to “darkest moments” that occurred in each of these contributors lives, and that is not an understatement.  Some of the chapters are harder to read than others, as they each tell the story of a very dark time these people have lived through.  Each author describes their own personal tsunami.   However, every single one cites the love of God for giving them the power, ability, and sometimes even joy, to go on no matter how dark their situations have seemed.

While this book was different than what I was expecting, it is well-written.  I recommend this 5-star book to those who like true–sometimes gritty–stories, and the people who have lived them.

The publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of What Love Looks Like through Chosen Books for the purpose of review.  All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal.  Despite my receiving the book free, it has not influenced my judgment.

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

Author’s Website:  www.jamesgoll.com

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

Author’s Blog:  https://lifechangingpower.wordpress.com/2015/10/10/7-declarations-for-5776-beyond-james-w-goll-franklin-tn/

 

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“Blessed, Blessed…Blessed” by Missy Robertson

Posted on October 7, 2015 by Becky

Book Cover Blessed, Blessed....Blessed

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Serious Challenges, Determined Faith

Missy is wife of Jase Robertson who stars with his family on television’s hit reality show, Duck Dynasty.  No doubt viewers feel they know everything about this family because of their series, but that is far from the truth.  This volume is partially an autobiography, and partially an account of the health crisis they have lived through with their youngest child, Mia.  This book is an eye-opening account of the ordeal they have traveled since before her birth.

Because of a sonogram done while Missy was pregnant, the family knew ahead of time that Mia would have a cleft lip.  However, how extensive it was, or if she would also have a cleft Robertsons Mia-before-surgery as Baby - Copypalate were unknown until the actual birth.  Having that foreknowledge did allow them to investigate what the best treatment options were, and where to get them.  That information served them well when Mia was born, and did have both conditions.

They vowed to help Mia, no matter what the cost.

This is a touching account of the numerous surgeries and onerous procedures Mia has undergone that began when she was seventeen days old.  Missy relates how financially strapped they were because of the expense involved with these treatments.  Their television show was not a part of their lives yet, and committing to getting this care for Mia was something they understood would take them years to pay for.  They vowed to do anything possible to help their child no matter what it would cost them.Robertsons Mia with Headgear - Copy

Missy also explains that cleft lip and pallet surgery is more for health reasons than cosmetic reasons.  Without the procedures, a child can have many health problems including trouble breathing, eating and speaking.  She also has lots of helpful advice and encouragement for other parents of children that have these issues.

Some blessings come with difficulties.    

This book’s title is very descriptive of Missy and Jase’s life.  The family has been blessed with three children.  Their first two children, sons Reed and Cole, were born with no health problems, giving them two blessings.  Despite all they have gone through with their youngest child Mia, she is their third blessing.   The Robertsons believe that God has guided them through all the hard things they have faced.  Without their Christian faith, they do not know how they would have survived it all.

I think most fans of the show will be surprised to learn Jase and Missy have been living Robertsons Jase, Missy & Family at Beach - Copythrough such an extensive ordeal.  Despite the television episode that featured Mia before a surgery, I think the significance of her health issues, as well as, the seriousness of the operation, was down-played on the show.  Like me, viewers will be stunned to hear about this medical struggle they have been facing.

I hope there will be an additional book about Missy and Jase’s life that tells more of their story.  This 5-star book ends with the present day, so Mia is still in the midst of invasive treatments.  It would be great to have a future book that relates how Mia is doing.  I would also like to hear more about Reed and Cole.  Anyone who likes real-life stories, fans of Duck Dynasty or true medical stories will like this book.  I recommend it.

Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of Blessed, Blessed…Blessed, 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.

Non-Profit Organization created by Jase, Missy & Mia:  MiaMoo.org

Author’s Website:  www.missyrobertson.com 

Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/missy.w.robertson?fref=ts

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

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“52 Little Lessons from A Christmas Carol” by Bob Welch

Posted on October 3, 2015 by Becky

Book Cover Little Lessons from A Christmas Carol

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

More Than a Christmas Story

That is the claim the author makes about Charles Dickens’ famous tale,  A Christmas Carol.  He states there are many of beneficial lessons that can be learned from this tale, fifty-two, in fact.  This book is divided into that many short chapters.  Each one explores a point he found when reading this Christmas classic.  Using excerpts from the story, along with references from both the Bible and human nature, the author illustrates what he means.

Tell me more, I don’t know if I go along with this.

For example, in the chapter “Denial Prevents Change,”  Mr. Welch explores the roadblocksChristmas Carolers Dickens Free Use individuals put up to keep themselves from changing. Often we dislike change so much we will deny reality.   This was a habit Scrooge had.  In the end, Scrooge quit denying reality and changed–and he was really happy he did.  The author points out that change can bring us great benefit if we will just open ourselves up to it.

Another chapter explores the value of children, and the pleasure of viewing life through the eyes of a child.  The author also discusses the joy of giving contrasted with Scrooge’s tightwad habits.  Further on, Mr. Welch even claims A Christmas Carol provides proof of God keeping His promises.  Can all of this be gleaned from the tale of a miserly old man who sees the error of his ways before the story’s end?

I didn’t know that!

Besides learning valuable lessons, the reader will also discover interesting things about Charles Dickens. For instance,  A Christmas Carol was the shortest story he wrote, and he was only thirty-one at the time.  Dickens loved Christmas and enjoyed celebrating it, even though doing that was looked down on then. The character of Scrooge is so much a part of the common language that Scrooge is listed as a noun in the Merriam-Webster Dictionary.  It’s meaning, of course:  a miserly person.Scrooge Words Free Use

Dickens was extremely popular with the public, both in England and the United States.  His arrival in America caused his ardent fans to work themselves into such a frenzy that it was comparable to the Beatlemania that swept the country over a century later.

This is a novel approach to the story.

The author shows A Christmas Carol in a whole new light. His ideas are presented in a small volume that can be read through very quickly.  Or this book can be read like a daily devotional, one chapter at a time.  It’s a Wonderful Life and Les Misérables have been the subjects of two other “52 Little Lesson” books.

With the Christmas season fast approaching, now is a great time to get a copy of this little Christmas Words Gold Free Usebook.  After reading it, you may never view Dickens’ classic tale the same way again.  You, like Scrooge, may find yourself transformed by this story!  I recommend this 5-star book to fans of Dickens, Christmas stories, or those who want to learn something new.

The publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of 52 Little Lessons from A Christmas Carol, through The Thomas Nelson Publishing BookLook Bloggers Program 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 Website:  http://bobwelch.net/

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

Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/Bob-Welch-Pebble-in-the-water-inspiration-115056991875103/timeline/

 

 

 

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“Counting on a Cowboy” by Debra Clopton

Posted on September 26, 2015 by Becky

Book Cover Counting on a Cowboy

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Will She Always Say Goodbye to Love? 

Welcome to Wishing Springs, Texas, a place brimming over with small town charm, and home of the most eligible bachelors, at least that is what the latest hype says.  But a relationship is that last thing newcomer Abby Knightly wants.  She has just moved to town, and brought lots of baggage–most of it the kind that can’t be seen.Moving Van Free Use

A young widow still recovering from her loss, Abby wants a fresh start.  She hopes to move forward from the night a drunk driver caused the death of her husband, and stole her dreams for the future.  Abby has spent the past two years so full of regret and grief that she hasn’t been able to function.  Moving to Wishing Springs is her last chance to get her life back.

Love is everywhere when you don’t want it!

Abby runs into rancher Bo Monahan, literally, as she is coming into town.  That chance encounter causes Abby to be with Bo when he has the surprise of his life.  A baby is left on his front porch, with a note claiming he is the child’s father.

All these events set into motion entanglements that Abby wants no part of.  She made thisBaby Smiling Free Use move to help herself heal.   Instead she finds a baby that is working his way into her heart, and a cowboy who desperately wants her to give him a chance.  Abby also discovers her landlord, Rand, is an alcoholic.  She finds herself directing all the anger she has for the drunk driver that killed her husband towards Rand.

Counting on a Cowboy also has the side-story of Pebbles and Rand.  The two fell hard for each other in high school, but Pebbles pulled back because of Rand’s fast lifestyle.  After that, Rand left town for decades, but never stopped loving her.  Since coming back and finding that Pebbles is a widow, he has been he has been relentlessly pursuing her.  However, Pebbles refuses to have a relationship with him because of his alcoholism.

Run, don’t walk, from starting a relationship with pain attached.

Running Figure Free UseThis is a great story that covers lots of topics but does it well, and keeps the reader’s interest.  Alcoholism and it’s tragic consequences are woven throughout the story.  Abby’s tragedy is the result of a drunk driver.  Rand is a raging alcoholic which is preventing Pebbles from ever considering him as a love interest.  This story does not sugar coat the tragedies, and lost opportunities that drinking creates in people’s lives.  But there is also love, humor and some quirky characters peppering the tale.

This is book two in the Four of Hearts Ranch Romance series, but this story stands on its own.  I highly recommend this 5-star book to anyone who enjoys realistic romantic stories told from a Christian viewpoint.

The publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of Counting on a Cowboy through The Thomas Nelson Publishing BookLook Bloggers Program 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 Website:  http://debraclopton.com/

Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/debra.clopton.5

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

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“Prayers For New Brides” by Jennifer O. White

Posted on September 13, 2015 by Becky

 

Book Cover Prayers For New Brides

White Lace and Promises….

This is an amazing book for new brides. It is also a great book no matter how old the Bridebride is. The author wants us to consider all the time that is spent planning a wedding. Think about those numerous hours used to pick out the perfect dress, the flowers, and the cake.  Amidst all the flurry of activity surrounding those details, contemplate how little thought or time is spent preparing for what happens after the couple says, “I do.”

If just a fraction of the time spent on wedding planning was devoted to life after the wedding bells ring, newlyweds would have a much happier start in their married life. The author wants us to understand that marriage is under attack. Satan takes dead aim at relationships, has couples in his cross-hairs, and will do everything possible to undermine marriage.

First comes love, then comes marriage, but then what?

The author speaks from experience. She is very open about the failure of her first marriage. Her second marriage came very close to ending as well. When frustrations or altercations occur between couples, Jennifer cautions choosing very carefully whom you tell your confidences to–if at all.

She shares choices she made in that area.  Those decisions almost caused her current marriage to end. Additionally, those she took into her confidence developed negative feelings toward her husband, David, that took years to work through. She makes a very good case for taking your frustrations to God only, and not taking anyone else into your trust.

To be forewarned is to be forearmed.

As with any other attack, advance preparation before a battle can be a big advantage. If a couple understands before marriage that their relationship will come under siege, they can strategize defenses ahead of time. If nothing else, the element of surprise will be removed. As the Bible says in the sixth chapter of Ephesians, we need to:

“put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes… so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.”

The author goes over those verses in detail, and how to apply them in the battle to save marriage. She credits following God’s Biblical instructions with saving her current marriage. Not only did Jennifer and David stay together, they have been able to turn things around to have a really amazing relationship.  Jennifer admits that following God’s way of doing things can seem counterintuitive, but it works. The more one reads the Bible, the easier it becomes to understand God’s outlook, and to put it into practice.Wedding Rings on Bible Free Use

I can do this!

This book is easy to read, and offers concrete solutions for relationships. For instance, understanding David and her each have different types of personalities was key to Jennifer understanding her husband.  He did not have something wrong with him as she had believed up until then.  Instead, David was behaving the way God made him, living out the traits of the personality he was born with.

Key held by Person PurpleAnother suggestion the author made was to make a “Fun Loving You” list.  She got this idea from the book of the same title by Ted Cunningham.  One should make a list of all the things about your husband that make loving him fun.  Really think about those qualities so you have a good sized list.  Then keep it handy.  Get it out and read it over whenever you are frustrated with your spouse!

This book is divided into small sections. That way the entire volume can be read at once, or it can be gone through slowly, reading just a section or two at a time.  Do not be overwhelmed at the thought of making changes in your relationship.  Even big changes can be manageable when broken down into small pieces that are done a little bit at a time.

Is it too late for me, I’ve been married a long time?

I recommend this book to those who are newly engaged, along with those who have been married for years. No matter where you are in your relationship, it is never too late to apply these principles, and see changes in your marriage.  Men should read this, too, because there is good information they can glean from this as well.   I really appreciate that this was written from a Christian viewpoint, and credits following Biblical precepts led to an outstanding relationship. Anyone who wants to help save, or improve their marriage, will benefit from this easily read 5-star book.

Cross Focused Reviews has provided me with a complimentary copy of Prayers For New Brides 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://www.jenniferowhite.com/

The author’s twitter:  https://twitter.com/jenniferowhite

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GIVEAWAY “90 Minutes in Heaven” by Don Piper

Posted on September 3, 2015 by Becky

Book Cover 90 Minutes in Heaven

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Discover What Heaven is Like   

Over two decades ago, a minister named Don Piper was in a car accident and died.  This is the remarkable story of what happened to him after that.

On that fateful day in 1989, Reverend Piper was driving across a long narrow bridge when Heaven Life Death & Life Againa semi-truck crashed into him head on, and then drove over the top of his car.  Four medical personal pronounced him dead after none of them could find a pulse.

Then another pastor, Dick Onerecker, appeared on the scene.  He insisted that he be allowed to go inside Don’s car and pray for him.  Dick later said that he felt God insist that he pray for Don, and that he should pray that Don not have any internal injuries or brain damage.  As he started singing the old hymn, “What a Friend We Have in Jesus,” the weak voice of the “dead man,” Don, starts singing with him!

An eyewitness account.

During the 90 minutes Don was considered dead, he states he went to Heaven.   According Heaven Clouds Skyto Reverend Piper, it is a place of awesome beauty, but mere words cannot do it justice.  Find out what the pearly gates of Heaven actually look like, as well as, if there are golden streets.  This book gives in-depth information about those things along with the sounds, sights and individuals he saw while there.

A group of people made up of friends and relatives Don had known while they were alive met him in a joyful reunion.  The people were recognizable and looked  as they had on Heaven How FarEarth–but better.  Don relates he felt the most perfect contentment and peace while there, and he never wanted to leave.

Then just as suddenly as he arrived in Heaven, he finds himself back in his horribly injured and broken body on planet Earth.  Don relates the ordeal he and his family have gone through in the years since.

Don’s story has been life changing for many, it might be for you, too!

On September 11, the movie based on this book is being released in theaters by Giving Films.  See for yourself Don’s story, along with his description of Heaven.

I highly recommend seeing this movie and reading this 5-star book.  Once I started Heaven I will restore Health Scripturereading this incredible story, it was hard to put it down.  Reverend Piper has convincing answers to those who claim his experience was just a nice dream, or a figment of his imagination.  As you read this account, ponder the questions Don still has about his experience.  You can decide what the answers should be.

Win a free copy!

I am delighted to say I have a copy of the book, 90 Minutes in Heaven, to give away. Fill in your email address in the Rafflecopter below.  I will only use this information to contact you if you win, and will not pass it on.  The best of luck to you.  You must live in the US or Canada.  No purchase necessary!*

This giveaway is now over.

Congratulations to Debbie L., who won the copy of 90 Minutes in Heaven.

Thanks to everyone who entered!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

“Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. 

Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

Giveaways only valid in US & Canada.

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

 

Official Movie Website:  http://90minutesinheaventhemovie.com/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/90minutesheaven

Giving Films:  http://90minutesinheaventhemovie.com/givingfilms

About the movie presented by Giving Films:

Releases in theaters everywhere September 11, 2015

Rating: PG-13 (for intense accident and injury images) 

Starring Hayden Christensen (Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones, Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith), Kate Bosworth (Remember The Titans, Blue Crush) Michael W. Smith, Fred Thompson, Dwight Yoakam, and Jason Kennedy, 90 Minutes In Heaven is based on the inspiring New York Times best-selling book that has sold 7 million copies.

About Giving Films:

Giving Films is passionate about sharing hope-filled movies and donating ALL of their profits to charities and ministries who serve those in need.  Beginning with their first film, 90 Minutes In Heaven, Giving Films is allowing all of us to be a part of making a difference.  Anytime you go to a Giving Films movie in theaters, visit http://www.givingfilms.com and select which charities you want to receive the profits from your ticket.  Their charitable organizations are Christian Alliance for Orphans, Faith Bridge Foster Care, Hire Heroes USA, Hope International, LifeWater, Street Grace, and World Vision.

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“The Printer and the Preacher: Ben Franklin, George Whitefield, and the Surprising Friendship that Invented America” by Randy Petersen

Posted on August 27, 2015 by Becky

Book Cover The Printer and the Preacher

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Travel Back in Time

A lot of well-researched history will be found between the covers of this book.  The author presents much in-depth information about both Ben Franklin and George Whitefield, individually.  This includes the time of their birth, along with what their parents were like, their family structure, and relationships with their siblings.  Colonial Storefront Williamsburg Free Use

There is a tremendous amount of background data about the society of the day, including people, events and religion.  The events that took place in both England and America are included since the men spent various seasons of their lives in both places.  All of the information the author has gathered is given in a very intriguing way.  He suggests the men might have been a part of the many interesting Colonial Couple Free Usehappenings that he renders.

However, this is supposed to be a book about the relationship between Ben Franklin and the pastor, George Whitefield.  Although there is a small amount of the book devoted to that, for the most part, this volume gives a history of these two men’s individual lives.  Very little of the book is devoted to interactions between the two, let alone the friendship, that these men were supposed to have had.

You will learn a lot about what life was like in the past.

Church Window Free UseI enjoyed learning about both Ben Franklin and George Whitefield, as well as, what life was like then.  Each man led a fascinating life.  The odyssey both men made from humble beginnings to living well-known successful lives is amazing.  George Whitefield’s faith journey was very thought-provoking.  I found the parts about Whitefield caught my interest the most.  There are also some interesting time-lines in the back of the book.  But I was really hoping to learn about the friendship the two shared, especially since that was part of the book’s title.  I also wanted to know more about how their friendship influenced America, which was also in the title.  It was disappointing to find very little information about that.

Although this is a well-written history, it doesn’t cover the subject matter it stated.  Colonial Men Free UseBecause of that, this is a four-star book.  If you want to learn about a relationship between Ben Franklin and George Whitefield, and what that did for America, I cannot recommend this book.  However, as a compelling history of the time period both these men lived in, along with an account of these men’s individual lives, I can certainly endorse it.

The publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of The Printer and the Preacher:  Ben Franklin, George Whitefield, and the Surprising Friendship that Invented America through The Thomas Nelson Publishing BookLook Bloggers Program 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 book’s website:  http://theprinterandthepreacher.com

The author’s website:  http://randypetersen.com/

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“Deadly Intent” by Lillian Duncan

Posted on August 24, 2015 by Becky

Book Cover Deadly Intent

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Who are You?

One dark night, a small boy who doesn’t speak is found naked, and abandoned, in a local park.   Suddenly, Maven, a widow on medical leave, finds herself the foster mother for this mystery child.  Head with Question Mark

Maven has never had children, or been a part of the foster system.  However, her social worker friend Lizzie, believes Maven and this child are perfect for each other.  Plus, the boy’s erratic behavior has worn down everyone else.

Has she bitten off more than she can chew?

The boy, who Maven dubs Moses, screams and cries when touched.  He arranges his toys in a perfect circle, and sits in the middle not talking.  Moses sleeps very little, and screams most of the night.

At first, Maven thinks Moses might be autistic, but in a short time, it appears he is dealing with the aftereffects from a severely stressful situation.  As time goes on, Moses begins to talk a bit, and allows hugs sometimes.  And Maven falls in love with him.

Will a life be lost, or more than one?

Suddenly, Moses disappears from Maven’s home. She is distraught, and worried.  The police believe he left of his own accord, but Maven doubts that.  Next door neighbor Paul, a policeman and a good friend, agrees to help Maven try to find Moses on their own.  Their search for the truth uncovers a very disturbing situation.  It also turns into a dangerous, if not deadly, predicament.

Crosses Three with Orange Sunrise Behind Free Use - CopyThis fast moving, 147 page book, contains suspense along with romance, and is written from a Christian point of view.  The darker the situation becomes, the more the hope of Christ is brought into the story, and I found that very uplifting.

There is not any objectionable language in the story.  However this book does deal with some dark situations, which might be inappropriate for young readers.  Some characters and events from another story are referred to, but Deadly Intent can be enjoyed without reading previous works.  I recommend this 5-star book to anyone who enjoys mysterious suspense stories with a Christian worldview.

Pelican Books provided me with a complimentary copy of  Deadly Intent 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.

Author’s website:  http://lillian-duncan.com/

Author’s website:  http://www.lillianduncan.net

Author’s twitter:  https://twitter.com/LillianDuncan

 

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