Sunday, March 31, 2013

Tyndale Rewards Program!

Check out this awesome program that allows you to earn free products from Tyndale House Publishers!  Use this link and you'll get an automatic 25 points and it helps me out too!



http://www.tyndalerewards.com/signup/?pc=5og9-n4pt-mqdf-j79h

Hook, Line & Sinker by Susan May Warren

Hook, Line And Sinker: A Deep Haven Novella This is a very cute, short romance in the Deep Haven series.  Ross Springer and Abigail Cushman are the leaders of different youth groups at Bethel College in Minnesota and decide to enter a fishing contest to raise money.  They're also trying to forget what they once were to each other.  Is is too late for them or will love win in the end?

For such a short story, Susan does a wonderful job of creating well-rounded, real characters.  There are sweet and amusing moments and real depth to the character's struggles.  This is easily read as a stand-alone, but reacquaints you with some characters from her other books.  This is a great series you won't want to miss!  Only available as an e-book from Tyndale House Publishers.

Free and Sale E-books!

Her new book Free March 31-Apr 1!


 The Secret Holocaust Diaries   Free through Apr. 6th


Tyndale--- Both books here for multiple vendors.




 Only .99!


Amazon


 Only $2.99 for 3 books!


Amazon

Saturday, March 30, 2013

Sale Kindle Books!

 March 30th only! $2.99 for Kindle!  This book is awesome! Here's my review: http://shopgirl152ny.blogspot.com/2012/12/souls-gate-by-james-l-rubart.html

Amazon

It might be available for other e-readers, also.


Only .99!  This is the 4th book in the wonderful Sushi series by Camy Tang.

Amazon


 Only $2.51 for each of the books in this series! This is a great series!


Amazon





Amazon



 

Amazon


 

Amazon





Friday, March 29, 2013

Deeply Loved by Keri Wyatt Kent

This is an excellent devotional to help you really experience Jesus' love and remind you that He's always with you.  It's meant to be read over forty days; each chapter is only a few pages and has a "Presence Practice" where you take action, such as reading a passage and reflecting, making a list, etc. The topics are simple, such as "slow down," "waking," and "the blues;" some seem like obvious things to do, but some are things I never would have thought of. 

I really enjoyed this book!   I liked the personal examples, stories, and quotes she incorporated; they kept the reading interesting.  The chapters were short enough that it wasn't overwhelming and the actions really help you apply what you just read.  I learned a lot and I can see myself returning to this book for a refresher course in the future.

I received this book free from Abingdon Press in exchange for an honest review.

Tuesday, March 26, 2013

Free and Sale Kindle Books!

 Only $1.99! Tuesday the 26th only! This is an awesome book. Check out my review: http://shopgirl152ny.blogspot.com/2012/10/with-every-letter-by-sarah-sundin.html


Amazon   Might be available through other vendors also.


 Free! Her brand-new book!  Might be available through other vendors also.

Amazon

Friday, March 22, 2013

Scent of Lilacs by Ann H. Gabhart

Cover Art This is a beautifully written story about Jocie, a thirteen-year-old girl growing up in the small town of Hollyhill, Kentucky and the summer of 1964 that brings a lot of change to her life.  She lives with her father and great-aunt and wonders why her mother and older sister left seven years ago.  When two of her dearest prayers come true, it will cause her to discover truths about herself and her family that could change their lives forever.

This is a great story told from multiple perspectives; Jocie has a humorous and guileless perspective on life and it was a joy getting to know her.  There's a host of quirky characters to love and small-town life to enjoy.  While Jocie learns some extremely hard and sad truths about her family's past, the story is actually one of new beginnings and hope.  There is also a strong message about the importance of faith and trust in God.  Don't miss out on this wonderful story!

I received this book free from Revell in exchange for an honest review.

Available March 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Thursday, March 21, 2013

My Very First Easter Story Sticker Book by Lois Rock

This is a cute, colorful sticker book just in time for Easter!  It begins with Jesus' entry in Jerusalem on the donkey and ends after His resurrection.  There are also a couple pages at the back that feature an overview of Jesus' life.  I thought this was a cool feature.  The top half of each page contain the story and the bottom half has activities.  There are also two pages of stickers!

The story is easy to understand and sure to keep children's attention.  It's for ages three and up.  It would make a perfect gift for your little one this Easter!

I received this book free from Kregel Publications in exchange for an honest review.

Monday, March 18, 2013

A Little Bit Cupid by Jennifer Shirk

A Little Bit Cupid 99 cents!About A LITTLE BIT CUPID: Finding love should be easy, but wedding photographer Phoebe Ward knows better. When Cupid shows up on a crazy mission to help her —and save the world in the process—Phoebe realizes love might be even more complicated than she thought. Even with Cupid showing her Mr. Right , she can’t stop thinking about his best friend, Mr. Wrong.

Cal Crawford has never had time for love, but now he’s falling for Phoebe. Which means it’s got to be just plain wrong to set her up with his best friend, right? But even though seeing Phoebe with someone else will break his heart, he can’t walk away from her.

Phoebe can’t afford to choose the wrong guy with the fate of the world at stake. But maybe Cupid has it wrong. Maybe she has to rely just a little bit on Cupid, and a whole lot more on her heart.


My Review:
This is a really sweet love story.  I loved the cute interactions of the characters, the detail when describing what they were feeling, and the unique plot.  The romance felt a bit rushed, but it is a short story so there's only so many pages to work with.  This is not a Christian story, but is considered a clean read.  There was some language and mild innuendo, but no sex scenes.  I would rate it PG. I really enjoyed this cute romance and look forward to reading her others! If you like clean romances, you'll like this! 

I received this story free in exchange for an honest review.

 My Photo
About Jennifer Shirk: Jennifer Shirk has a bachelor degree in pharmacy--which has in NO WAY at all helped her with her writing career. But she likes to point it out, since it shows romantic-at-hearts come in all shapes, sizes, and mind-numbing educations.

She writes sweet (and sometimes even funny) romances for Samhain Publishing, Avalon Books/Montlake Romance and now Entangled Publishing. She won third place in the RWA 2006 NYC's Kathryn Hayes Love and Laughter Contest with her first book, The Role of a Lifetime.

Lately she's been on a serious exercise kick. But don't hold that against her.

Feel free to follow her on Twitter or become a friend on Facebook.

Social Media Links:Twitter: https://twitter.com/JenniferShirk
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/authorjennifershirk
Website: http://www.jennifershirk.com/
Blog: http://www.jennifershirk.blogspot.com/
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3112488.Jennifer_Shirk


Buy links:
Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/A-Little-Bit-Cupid-ebook/dp/B00BCFYO8G/ref=tmm_kin_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1359644248&sr=8-1


Sunday, March 17, 2013

The Romance of Grace by Jim McNeely III



This is a fascinating and insightful look at the importance of grace! In the parable of the merchant searching for the pearl of great value, we are the pearl that God desires so much that He sacrifices all He has.  He's passionate about us like a bridegroom for his bride. He wants us to choose to love Him back, so He gives us free will.  He points out that there are two meanings of good that have been at odds with each other since sin entered the world.  This is an amazing chapter.

Some of the topics are the law, the nature of love, joy, extending grace to others, and how predestination and grace co-exist.  He has some interesting examples from movies, including starting the book discussing the Princess Bride!  There are questions at the end of each chapter that really make you think and would be great for discussion in a group.  I enjoyed the way he explained things and pointed out possible objections and then answered them.  This book made me look at grace in a new way.  I definitely recommend it!

I received this book free from Cross Focused Reviews in exchange for an honest review.


The Romance of Grace is currently $3.99 for KindleNook, & Apple iBooks!


          Jim McNeely interviewed on episode 16 of Author Talks with Shaun Tabatt
          Jim McNeely video interview about The Romance of Grace
          Jim's Blog:  ThereforeNow.com
          Jim McNeely on Twitter:  @JWMcneely
          Jim McNeely on Facebook:  www.facebook.com/jim.mcneely
          The Romance of Grace on Facebook:  www.facebook.com/TheRomanceOfGrace
          Therefore Now Ministries on Facebook:  www.facebook.com/thereforenow

Free for Kindle! Did the Resurrection Happen..Really?

 Did the Resurrection Happen . . . Really?: A Dialogue on Life, Death, and Hope (The Coffee House Chronicles)


 Amazon

Deal ends March 30!

Saturday, March 16, 2013

Love in a Broken Vessel by Mesu Andrews

Cover Art This is the heartbreaking but ultimately beautifully redemptive story of Gomer and Hosea, based on the true Biblical account.  Hosea is a prophet who is told by God to marry a prostitute.  Their relationship is to be the reflection of God's relationship with Israel.  Just as Gomer is distrustful and returns to her harlotry again and again, so do the Israelites turn to other gods instead of turning to the one true God.  But God loves them with a passion and and even though He's heartbroken, still he pursues and forgives His people just as Hosea loves Gomer and keeps pursuing and forgiving her.

I really enjoyed the insight into who these people were.  This book brought them to life and was very well-written.  I struggled with Gomer's decisions while at the same time was made to understand how she could make them.  The background of what was happening in Israel and Judah at the time was fascinating and put their relationship into context.  I definitely recommend this fascinating romance!

I received this book free from Revell in exchange for an honest review.

Available March 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

If you have any  questions for Mesu Andrews, or just want to say hi, Revell is hosting an Author Café, an hour chat with Mesu, on Wednesday March 20 at 3 pm EDT/12 pm PDT . We’d love for you to join the party on our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/revellbooks)! Plus we’re giving away a signed book to one lucky participant!

Northern Lights Trilogy by Lisa Tawn Bergren

Northern Lights Trilogy This is a fascinating and exciting series about Norwegian immigrants coming to America! In Captain's Bride, Elsa Anders marries Captain Peder Ramstad the night before they leave their home in Norway to make their way in America.  Also making the journey are her best friend Kaatje and her unfaithful husband, Elsa's conniving sister Tora, and Peder's best friend and first mate Karl, who's secretly in love with Elsa.  Strong-willed Elsa wants to travel with her husband, but his fear insists on leaving her home in Maine.  Kaatje and her husband make their way to North Dakota to farm the land while Tora is determined to marry well and take her rightful place in high society.

The Captain's Bride 
In Deep Harbor, Elsa faces a horrible tragedy, Kaatje tries to survive raising two daughters and running a farm alone after her husband disappears, Karl struggles with mistakes he's made, and Tora's manipulations bring her down.  The last book follows Kaatje as she travels to Alaska to look for her husband, Tora struggles to forgive the man who changed her life, and Elsa and Karl wonder what their futures hold.

This series spans ten years and feels epic in the multiple story-lines and global locales.  Well-written, with adventure, romance, redemption, betrayal, and forgiveness, I was surprised time and again with where the story led.  I didn't like the first book as well because of some choices characters made, but really liked books two and three.  You definitely need to read these in order.  If you like historical fiction, don't miss this series!

I received this e-book free from Waterbrook Multnomah in exchange for an honest review.

These books are available individually or for a great price of $6.99 for the e-book of all three.


Deep Harbor


Midnight Sun

Friday, March 15, 2013

Wednesday, March 13, 2013

Free and Sale Kindle books!

 
Free!
Distant Dreams-looks like a new cover for an older book of Tracie's.  I remember liking this series.

Amazon








Free!
Amazon


 
Free!
I loved this series about a funny, crime-solving, crime-scene cleaning girl!

Amazon



 

 On sale for $1.00!

Amazon

 

Amazon

Sale on A Memory Between Us, only $2.99!

I haven't read this series yet, but I'm excited to see if I love it as much as With Every Letter, also by her.

 

Sale for $2.99!
I've heard this series is really good, but I haven't read it yet.  I really enjoyed another book of hers.
Amazon

A Quilt for Jenna by Patrick E. Craig

book title front This is an intriguing story about Jerusha, the best quilter in her community, who plans to win first prize at the Quilt Fair so she can leave behind her Amish way of life forever.  After her young daughter died a year ago, her husband left and she has been alone with her grief and her anger at God.  But on her way to the fair, she's trapped in her driver's car when the Blizzard of the Century hits and she must confront her painful memories.  When another little girl needs her, will she open her heart?

The story is told from multiple perspectives and over multiple years as we live through memories to understand how these characters ended up where they are today.  I especially found fascinating the sections about Jerusha's husband, Reuben, and his struggle over being an Amish man fighting in World War II.  The author places his story in a real town during a real storm and there was a lot of detail about which roads were being plowed and where they were looking for her, which felt a bit tedious to me.  While I don't usually think of men reading Amish books, I could see them liking this story because of these aspects.  This is a touching story of loss, forgiveness, and hope and I look forward to reading more by this author.

I received this book free from Harvest House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.


Patrick E. Craig is a lifelong writer and musician who left a successful songwriting and performance career in the music industry to follow Christ in 1984. He spent the next 26 years as a worship leader, seminar speaker, and pastor in churches, and at retreats, seminars and conferences all across the western United States. After ministering for a number of years in music and worship to a circuit of small churches, he is now concentrating on writing and publishing both fiction and non-fiction books. Patrick and his wife Judy make their home in northern California and are the parents of two adult children and have five grandchildren. for more than 30 years.

Tuesday, March 12, 2013

A Home for Lydia by Vannetta Chapman

 book title front This is a cozy story set along the banks of Pebble Creek in Wisconsin.  After his uncle dies, Aaron has to leave his home in Indiana and travel there to oversee the Plain cabins his uncle owned.  He's disappointed in their condition when he arrives and doesn't make the best first impression on Lydia, the sole employee.  Will they be able to work together to turn the cabins around?  Can they expose the danger among them while Lydia tries to guard her heart?
Will Aaron return home to his land or discover a new dream?

I enjoyed revisiting Pebble Creek and catching up on the lives of Miriam and Grace while meeting new characters.  This is the second book in the Pebble Creek Amish Series and I would recommend reading them in order because the characters in the first book feature so prominently in this one.  I liked Lydia and Aaron, but wished there was a bit more fleshing out of their relationship.  I also liked the danger element and seeing how an Amish family deals with a serious illness.  This is a well-written and enjoyable addition to the Amish genre.

I received this book free from Harvest House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.

Here's the link to my review of book one:

 Vannetta Chapman has published more than 100 articles in Christian family magazines. She discovered her love for the Amish while researching her grandfather’s birthplace in Albion, Pennsylvania. Vannetta is a multi-award-winning member of Romance Writers of America. She was a teacher for 15 years and currently resides in the Texas Hill country. Her first two inspirational novels—A Simple Amish Christmas and Falling to Pieces—were Christian Book Distributors bestsellers.
 

Free for kindle! Paradise Valley by Dale Cramer

Here's the link for Amazon: Amazon

Might be available free in other e-book versions also.

Free for a limited time!





Brand New Book by Tracy Higley Releases Today!

 


Here's the link to Amazon: Amazon

Available everywhere!

I'll be reviewing it in a few weeks.

Monday, March 11, 2013

Free E-Book of Glamorous Illusions by Lisa T. Bergren!

Glamorous Illusions

 

Here's the link to the publisher's page where you can pick which kind of e-book you want: 

David Cook Publishers

Free through Tuesday the 12th at 7 PM Central.

Sunday, March 10, 2013

Her Restless Heart by Barbara Cameron

I really enjoyed this story of a young Amish woman trying to find her place in the world.  Mary Katherine has still not been baptized in the church because she doesn't feel as if she really belongs.  She does love her work weaving in the shop she shares with her two cousins and grandmother.  She has always been creative and that is just one more way her father finds fault with her. 

When two young men she's known for years start to show interest in her, will one of them convince her to join the church?  Will she choose the man who has settled in her community, the one visiting from exotic Florida, or leave and join the Englisch world?

This is book one in the Stitches in Time series and I actually read book two first and really liked it. Here's a link to my review: The Heart's Journey.  I just had to find out the story behind Mary Katherine, so requested this one.  It's helpful to read them in order because there was some information revealed in this one that led into book two, but it's not necessary.  I like the coziness of this family and their shop and would love to hang out with them and learn how to quilt or knit.  The characters and dialogue are realistic and the romance sweet.  I like getting the perspectives of the main characters and had a hard time putting this one down!  I'm definitely looking forward to reading about the last cousin in Heart in Hand, the third book that just came out in February!

I received this book free from Abingdon Press in exchange for an honest review.

Free E-Books from Tyndale!

 Tangled AshesTrauma Plan


http://www.tyndale.com/ebookextra/ebook-promos/


These two free through March 16th! 







The Book of the King              This children's book free through March 31st!

Friday, March 8, 2013

Deeply Loved by Keri Wyatt Kent

Day 21: Confession

This is a little different review for me.  I'm just looking at the chapter on confession now and at the end of the month will do a review on the full book.

Keri Kent talks about the importance of confession to our relationship with Jesus. She gives an example of her daughter confessing to her when she was a child and how that mirrors our confession to our Heavenly Father.  When we confess wrong thoughts and actions, we receive grace and forgiveness and comfort.  It strengthens the bond because you trust Him enough to tell Him, even though He already knows!  Jesus views us with compassion and love and wants to help us, just as a loving parent would feel toward their child.

I like how the author points out the different benefits of confession.  There's a section at the end called "Presence Practice, " where she gives some actions to do such as prayer, reading from the Bible, and reflecting on our behavior and confessing.  This chapter is only four pages, but it makes a lot of good points.  I'm really looking forward to reading the rest of the book!

I received this book free from Abingdon Press in exchange for an honest review.

Unholy Hunger by Heather James


This is a fascinating story about a mother's demand for vengeance after her child is murdered.  Evelyn Barrett had a great life, with a wonderful husband, beautiful daughter, and a job she loved as an attorney.  That's all shattered when her daughter dies and she becomes obsessed with finding and punishing the man who did this.  When she develops an ability to sniff out evil, will she listen to her conscience or take it too far?

There are a lot of facets to this story, from grief to the extremes Evelyn goes to find justice, to the odd ability that helps her discover the truth.  This is a tough subject matter, but not graphic.  The emotions were believable and I could see a parent reacting as Evelyn did.  Evelyn frustrated me at times, but I admired her, too.  This is a well-written, unique story that will keep you riveted!

I received this book free from Kregel Publications in exchange for an honest review.

Check out the first three chapters here.
Check out the book trailer here.

http://www.kregel.com/Media/MediaManager/JamesHeather.jpg