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Book Review + GIVEAWAY: Shadows in the Mind’s Eye

Charlotte Anne Mattas longs to turn back the clock. Before her husband, Sam, went to serve his country in the war, he was the man everyone could rely on—responsible, intelligent, and loving. But the person who came back to their family farm is very different from the protector Annie remembers. Sam’s experience in the Pacific theater has left him broken in ways no one can understand—but that everyone is learning to fear.

Talk spreads quickly around town after Sam nearly kills his own brother. When he claims to have seen men on the mountain when no one else has, Annie isn’t the only one questioning his sanity and her safety. If there were criminals haunting the hills, there should be evidence beyond his claims. Is he really seeing what he says, or is his war-tortured mind conjuring ghosts?

“Sam’s reactions to ‘normal’ stimulus are off the charts. If he hears a sound or sees a shadow, he immediately jumps into fight/flight/freeze reactions. As is normal for people when they’re first dealing with PTSD, he has no tools to hide his responses and lacks a bit of impulse control,” Tromp explains. “He’s a good, good man with an enormous heart and his reactions cause a horrendous amount of guilt for him. The last thing he wants is to put the people he loves in danger. Imagine watching yourself become more and more unstable and wondering if there’s anything you can do to stop it.”

Annie desperately wants to believe her husband, but between his irrational choices and his nightmares leaking into the daytime, she’s terrified he’s going mad. Can she trust God to heal Sam’s mental wounds—or will sticking by him mean keeping her marriage at the cost of her own life?

“Fear is the great consumer. Sam is afraid he’s going crazy and that he can’t protect his family. Annie is afraid she won’t ever be able to cope and that the Sam she married is lost forever. And when they (or we) focus on fear, there are no solutions, no ways to move forward because they cannot solve fear on their own. We aren’t trustworthy enough or strong enough to fix it,” shares Tromp. “I’m a huge proponent of looking for and celebrating the beautiful even when it isn’t pretty. Gratitude isn’t a pretty bandage to slap on a hemorrhaging wound. It is a way to shift your attention while the master healer does his work. As Sam’s mother Dovie May says, ‘Sometimes God uses broken things to save us . . . Ain’t no light that can get through something solid. It sneaks through the broken places.’”

Tromp’s inspiration for Shadow’s in the Mind’s Eye was her own grandparents’ stories of adjusting to life when her grandfather returned home from World War II. Back then, soldiers returning home rarely talked about their experiences and the difficult adjustment of “getting back to normal.” In the process of writing the story, the author did extensive research on treatments for what was known as battle fatigue at the time. She also drew on personal experiences in dealing with PTSD herself.

Readers will also learn more about the sordid history of Hot Springs being home to the largest illegal gambling racket in the country where the town served as a sort of gangster retreat for members of the mob. The setting and illegal activity provide an excellent backdrop for a suspenseful story. After reading Shadows in the Mind’s Eye, fans of psychological thrillers and historical fiction by Jaime Jo Wright and Sarah Sundin are sure to add Tromp to their favorite authors list.

Publisher: Kregel Publications

Source: NetGalley, signed up via the Read with Audra Blog Tours

Leslie’s Review: 4.5 Stars/I more than loved it!

I really loved Shadows in the Mind’s Eye by Janyre Tromp! Shadows in the Mind’s Eye tells the story of Sam, a father and husband returning from World War Two to his hometown of Hot Springs, and Annie, his wife. Returning home is not exactly how either Sam or Annie pictured. Sam is battling severe PTSD when he gets home and Annie thought things would be exactly as they were before Sam went off to war. As Sam is battling PTSD, he often sees things that are either not there or comes in waves of flashbacks of what he experienced during the war. Annie is trying her best to navigate life with this new version of Sam and raising their daughter, Rosie. As Sam’s PTSD gets worse, people start to think something is wrong with Sam. That is, until some of the things Sam has seen start to have some merit and some of Hot Springs deepest, darkest secrets come into the light.

What drew me to Shadows in the Mind’s Eye by Janyre Tromp is the psychological component and how it was written. Ms. Tromp writes Shadows in the Mind’s Eye in the voices of both Sam and Annie alternating the narrative. As you’re reading, you fully understand where Sam is coming from and where Annie is coming from–that is how flawless Ms. Tromp’s writing is. I loved the topics that were covered in the book and how they weren’t brushed under the rug, but brought to the forefront in a Christian Fiction Book. While it is a darker read, in terms of the realities a person with PTSD faces as well as their love ones who endure along side them, Shadows in the Mind’s Eye shines Hope in the middle of the darkness. I especially loved the ending and how everything wasn’t wrapped up in a nice little package, because it mimicked the realities of life.

Despite the realities in the book’s darker moments, I could still read moments of Hope that were doing it’s best to shine through. Yes, sometimes it’s good to read a book for the sake of an escape. But sometimes (like for me right now), it’s good to read a book that deals with the real stuff of the world, albeit in the fictional sense, to let you know that you are not alone in the world or to remind you that you can go through what life has dealt you because it’s not so bad after all. Shadows in the Mind’s Eye, I believe, will challenge you in a good way. If you are looking for a Christian read that could be outside of your comfort zone and challenge you, then I highly recommend Shadows in the Mind’s Eye by Janyre Tromp.

Have you read Shadows in the Mind’s Eye? What did you think of the book? In what ways did it challenge you and/or what did you take away from the book?

I would like to thank NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read Shadows in the Mind’s Eye. Special thanks to the Read with Audra Book Tour for giving me my first chance to be on a book-blogging tour and for the media information for this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Learn More About:

Janyre Tromp

Janyre Tromp (pronounced Jan-ear) is a historical suspense novelist who loves spinning tales that, at their core, hunt for beauty, even when it isn’t pretty. She’s the author of Shadows in the Mind’s Eye and coauthor of It’s a Wonderful Christmas.

A firm believer in the power of an entertaining story, Tromp is also a book editor and published children’s book author. She lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan with her husband, two kids, two crazy cats, and a slightly eccentric Shetland Sheepdog.

You can find her on Facebook (@JanyreTromp), Instagram (@JaynreTromp), Twitter (@JanyreTromp), and her website, www.JanyreTromp.com where you can download a free copy of her novella, Wide Open.

Giveaway:

Click the following link for a chance to win a copy of Shadows in the Minds Eye!

https://www.audrajennings.com/2022/04/shadows-in-minds-eye-giveaway.html

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Book Review: Behind the Lights: The Extraordinary Adventure of a Mum and Her Family

Synopsis from Amazon:

In this inspiring debut memoir, Helen Smallbone, mother of seven creative children―including Christian music artists for KING & COUNTRY and Rebecca St. James―chronicles the family’s journey of faith across the ocean to go where God was leading. Written from a mother’s perspective, Helen shares stories of peaks, valleys, and a family trusting God for provision.

Helen Smallbone’s heartfelt story illustrates what it means to really let God lead, which almost always means living outside the box of how the world says to live. How did an ordinary Australian family produce two Grammy Award–winning artists―Rebecca St. James and for KING & COUNTRY? What happened to bring the Smallbones through closed doors and to new beginnings in the United States? In Behind the Lights, Helen shares not only these stories of her family but of the life lessons they all learned along the way.

In 1991 Helen and her husband, David, packed up their family and sixteen suitcases to move from Australia to the United States. Completely isolated from the support of family and friends, they relied on God to provide them with hope and direction. Helen watched her children join forces as Rebecca St. James’ career grew, soon followed by blossoming careers for the others―as artists, entrepreneurs, filmmakers―and the rise of Joel and Luke’s for KING & COUNTRY on Christian music charts. Helen shares untold stories and insights into how her family worked and stuck together, constantly relying on their faith to guide the way. Helen’s journey includes:

meeting her future husband with a cockatoo on her shoulder
the family’s move to the states in blind faith
the kindness of neighbors and the local church that gave them the encouragement they so desperately needed
years of touring alongside Rebecca and the formation of for KING & COUNTRY
the ways God led and enabled her to homeschool and think about education differently
an inside look at the stories and dynamics of the entire Smallbone family

No matter where you are in life, Helen shows through her own experiences that what God has done in her life, He will do in yours, too.

Publisher: K-LOVE Books

Source: NetGalley

Leslie’s Review: 4 Stars/I really, really love it!

I was intrigued when I saw the cover of Behind the Lights: The Extraordinary Adventure of a Mum and Her Family and knew I had to read it. Behind the Lights: The Extraordinary Adventure of a Mum and Her Family by Helen Smallbone tells the story of Mrs. Smallbone and her family’s testimony of how her family left their homeland of Australia and took a huge leap of faith settling in the United States. Mrs. Smallbone is a mother to 7 children–3 of which are involved in the Christian Music industry (the duo for KING & COUNTRY and Rebecca St. James). The first few years in America were difficult for the family, but God showed up in miraculous ways to provide for the family. After her daughter Rebecca St. James’ career took off and things started to even out, the whole family rallied around and worked together to do what God had called them to do. Through the ups and downs–the children starting their own independent lives, to the start of for KING & COUNTRY to the present–they did their best to trust God and walk out the adventure set before them.

I didn’t realize when I first chose to read Behind the Lights: The Extraordinary Adventure of a Mum and Her Family that it was written by the mother of Rebecca St. James and for KING & COUNTRY. I love how each chapter of the book opens up with a Bible verse that sets the theme for the chapter. I enjoyed every single word of Behind the Lights and the stories of Faith and Trust in God that were shared. I love that regardless of what happened to the Smallbone Family, they trusted God (no matter how hard it was) and they worked together as a family to make it. I love the message and testimony of trusting in God through the unknown that is weaved throughout the entire book. I love the brutal honesty and vulnerability of motherhood and life that Mrs. Smallbone talks about–what she deems to be failures and what she sees as successes. I love how Mrs. Smallbone champions the role of Motherhood and wants to pour into other mothers and empower them in a Godly manner. If you are looking for a encouraging read, especially if you are a mother, then I highly recommend this book.

Have you read Behind the Lights: The Extraordinary Adventure of a Mum and Her Family? What did you think of the book?

I would like to thank NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Lean More About:

Helen Smallbone | Lisa Stilwell

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Book Review: Read It, See It, Say It, Sing It: Knowing and Loving the Bible

Synopsis From Amazon:

Have you heard of the special book God gave to us? If not, this is something that we should discuss! This book is the Bible. It’s timeless and true. It’s God’s written Word—both for me and for you.

In Hunter Beless’s delightful, rhyming picture book, Read It, See It, Say It, Sing It!, four families grow in their knowledge of and love for the Bible as they

Read, or hear the Bible,
See, or regularly read Scripture,
Say, or memorize and talk about the Bible, and
Sing, or worship God and remember Scripture together.

A celebration of the perfect Word of God, Read It, See It, Say It, Sing It! elevates the Bible to its rightful place—the highest authority in our lives. Young readers will discover that when we read, see, say, and sing the Bible, God speaks to us, and our lives are changed forever.

A parent connection explaining the Scripture memorization method is included in the back of the book.

Publisher: B&H Kids

Source: NetGalley

Leslie’s Review: 5 Stars/A favorite of 2022

Hunter Beless’ Read It, See It, Say It, Sing It: Knowing and Loving the Bible is a new favorite book of mine to teach kids the basics of the Bible. Read It, See It, Say It, Sing It: Knowing and Loving the Bible is a great introduction to teach kids and families the basics of God’s Word, why we need the Word and how to apply it in our daily lives. Read It, See It, Say It, Sing It is full of Bible verses to use in various situations and shows how having His Word changes our life.

As someone who works in Ministry, primarily with Children, I am always on the lookout for resources that are geared toward children that is easy for them to understand and is Biblically sound and I believe Read It, See It, Say It, Sing It: Knowing and Loving the Bible fits the bill. I love that there are so many Bible verses included within the pages of the book. I love the various scenarios that Read It, See It, Say It, Sing It gives on how you can apply God’s Word through out the day and in different ways–reading it, seeing it, saying it, and singing it. I love that it explains who Jesus is and why He came. I love how it explains sin and why we need Jesus. But most of all, I love how it teaches young ones to hunger for God’s Word and encourages them to incorporate it into their daily lives.

Read It, See It, Say It, Sing It: Knowing and Loving the Bible is beautifully illustrated and written so that children can understand and enjoy reading it. I love the “Parent Connection” section helps guide parents and families to apply what they had just read to their lives. I love Ms. Beless’ heart for writing this and am grateful that she wrote this book. I also love how Ms. Beless backed up everything she wrote with Scripture. I am looking forward to purchasing copies of Read It, See It, Say It, Sing It and sharing this book with those I know. If you are looking for a book to help teach the kids in your life about the Bible and how to apply it to their life that’s Biblically sound, then I highly recommend Read It, See It, Say It, Sing It: Knowing and Loving the Bible.

Have you read Read It, See It, Say It, Sing It: Knowing and Loving the Bible? What did your family think of the book?

I would like to thank NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Learn More About:

Hunter Beless

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Book Review: Mrs. Witherspoon Goes to War

Synopsis from Amazon:

A WASP Goes Above the Call of Duty to Free Captive American Soldiers

Full of intrigue, adventure, and romance, this new series celebrates the unsung heroes—the heroines of WWII.

Peggy Witherspoon, a widow, mother, and pilot flying for the Women’s Airforce Service in 1944 clashes with her new reporting officer. Army Air Corp Major Howie Berg was injured in combat and is now stationed at Bolling Field in Washington D.C. Most of Peggy’s jobs are safe, predictable, and she can be home each night with her three daughters—until a cargo run to Cuba alerts her to American soldiers being held captive there, despite Cuba being an “ally.” Will Peggy go against orders to help the men—even risk her own life?

Publisher: Barbour Publishing

Source: NetGalley

Leslie’s Review: 4 Stars/I really, really love it!

I absolutely loved reading Mrs. Witherspoon Goes to War by Mary Davis. Mrs. Witherspoon Goes to War is part of the Heroines of WWII series by Barbour Publishing. Mrs. Witherspoon Goes to War tells the story of Peggy Witherspoon, a Women’s Airforce Service Pilot (WASP), and her co-workers during World War Two. WASP Witherspoon lost her husband, also a pilot, fighting for the Allies over in Europe and is trying to raise her two daughters (with the help of her Mother). All the while, doing her best to serve her Country. At the the workplace, the WASPs feel as though they are often overlooked and treated less than fairly for all that they have done to help the United States during the War. At first the WASPs superior, Major Howie Berg (who gets the job because of an injury he sustained during the War), is not quite sure what to think of the WASPs and their abilities. As time progresses, Major Berg highly respects the WASPs and the work that they do. Peggy is also not sure of things since her husband died, especially when it comes to things of God. Peggy and her fellow WASPs are sent on secret missions they know nothing about. However, on one mission, Peggy figures out one of the secret missions and that, in turn, leads to another mission the US does not want to take–but Peggy and her fellow WASPs do. Peggy and her fellow WASPs decide to do this mission “under the radar” without anyone knowing. When Major Berg finds out about the mission, he agrees to help the WASPs because he would have done the same thing–no matter how dangerous the mission. Through their ups and downs at work, Peggy and Howie are able to form a bond and a respect that impacts both of their lives, as well as those of Peggy’s daughters.

I loved reading Mrs. Witherspoon Goes To War from beginning to end. I appreciated reading of Peggy’s struggles with her Faith after the loss of her husband and, as a reader, was sympathetic towards her. It was nice to see how Howie was also coping with his personal injuries and his Faith as well. Despite Peggy and Howie’s struggles, both personally and professionally, they were able to find and hold on to Hope in God.

I also loved the spit-fire and spunk of the WASP ladies. I loved how fearless they were in their missions and how they are true Patriots. I loved the intrigue in the missions and how they figured out codes and such to complete the missions. I really enjoyed reading a book based on a part of history that’s unfamiliar to me. If you are looking for an pleasant, suspenseful read that is full of Faith, then I highly recommend Mrs. Witherspoon Goes to War!

Have you read Mrs. Witherspoon Goes to War? What did you think of the book? Have you read any of the books in the Heroines of WWII series? What do you think of the series so far?

I would like to thank NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Learn More About:

Mary Davis

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Book Review: Darkest Night Brightest Day: A Family Devotional for the Easter Season

Synopsis from New Growth Press:

Start a new Easter season tradition with your family by reading this beautifully illustrated “upside-down” book from Marty Machowski that includes fourteen Bible stories. The first side, Darkest Night, has seven stories that recount the events of Passion week ending with Christ’s crucifixion and burial. Flip the book over and continue by reading Brightest Day with seven more stories that progress from Christ’s resurrection through Pentecost. Children are sure to remember the contrast between the darkness at the death of our Lord and the light-filled events from Christ’s resurrection onward.

Machowski weaves each Gospel account together into one harmonized story and provides questions for family discussion. Focusing on the main events the week of the crucifixion, Darkest Night is designed for families to read one story each day, beginning on Palm Sunday. Once the week ends, they will start with Brightest Day on Easter Sunday. The stories for the week following Easter recount appearances of Jesus after the resurrection, his ascension, and Pentecost.

This beautiful hardback book, illustrated by Phil Shorr, is sure to become a treasured favorite of the family to be used every Easter as a reminder of how God turned the darkest night into the brightest day.

Publisher: New Growth Press

Source: New Growth Press

Leslie’s Review: 4 Stars/I really, really love it!

I really love Darkest Night Brightest Day: A Family Devotional for the Easter Season by Marty Machowski! Darkest Night Brightest Day: A Family Devotional for the Easter Season is a unique devotional that tells of the events leading up to Easter (Palm Sunday, The Last Supper, etc.) and the events leading up to Pentecost (Jesus’ Resurrection, Returning to Heaven, etc.). Darkest Night Brightest Day is a two week devotional to do the week before Easter and the week after Easter. Darkest Night Brightest Day is split into two sections–Darkest Night and Brightest Day. The Darkest Night portion deals with the events that led up before Easter. Brightest Day deals with the events after Jesus’ Resurrection and Pentecost. The Darkest Night and Brightest Day has 7 devotions each (14 devotions total) that you can read each day of the designated week. Each of the devotions has discussion questions at the end to reinforce what the family has learned.

Darkest Night Brightest Day: A Family Devotional for the Easter Season appealed to me for different reasons. I loved the uniqueness that I found in the devotional. I loved that the devotional covered the week before Easter and after Easter and the events surrounding them. I like that there are discussion questions at the end of each devotion. I liked how Mr. Machowski explained each of the events so that everyone in the family can understand. I liked how Mr. Machowski explained some of the traditions that we celebrate and why. I also loved the illustrations in the book.

I believe Darkest Night Brightest Day: A Family Devotional for the Easter Season would be a great read for the Easter season or any time of the year. I also believe that the devotional is adaptable to you and your family and how you celebrate Easter. (For example, when talking about Communion, I use juice to represent the blood of Jesus.) If you are looking for a unique Easter devotional, then I recommend Darkest Night Brightest Day: A Family Devotional for the Easter Season!

Have you read Darkest Night Brightest Day: A Family Devotional for the Easter Season? How did your family utilize the devotional?

I would like to thank New Growth Press for giving me a copy of Darkest Night Brightest Day: A Family Devotional for the Easter Season to review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Learn More About:

Marty Machowski | Phil Schorr

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Book Review: Polly and the Screen Time Overload

Synopsis from Amazon:

Introducing Kids to the Importance of Boundaries with Technology

Polly loves visiting her grandparents on their farm every year. She looks forward to seeing the animals, helping out in the barn, and playing with her cousins.

That’s until she gets a new tablet as a present. Suddenly, she spends all day inside playing games and watching cartoons. Staring at her tablet screen, Polly risks missing out on all the family fun happening around her on the farm.

With easy-to-understand language and engaging illustrations, Polly’s story will help families start an ongoing conversation about self- control and how to enjoy technology within boundaries.

TGC Kids illustrated storybooks engage the hearts and imaginations of kids aged 3–7 by teaching them biblical truths about how to live and grow as God’s children in today’s culture. Published in partnership with the Gospel Coalition.

Publisher: Crossway

Source: NetGalley

Leslie’s Review: 5 Stars/A favorite of 2022

I love Polly and the Screen Time Overload by Betsy Childs Howard! Polly and the Screen Time Overload tells the story of Polly. Polly is visiting her grandparents farm. Polly loves helping at the farm, helping out with the animals, being with her grandparents, and playing with her cousins. While at the farm, Polly’s birthday takes place. For her birthday, Polly’s Aunt gives Polly a tablet. Playing on her tablet is all that Polly wants to do. Polly does not want to help out with the animals, be with her grandparents, or playing with her cousins–just playing on her tablet. Once her tablet dies and needs charging, Polly realizes all she has missed. With her grandparents guidance, Polly figures out ways to set boundaries with her tablet in order to do all the things Polly loves.

I loved Polly and the Screen Time Overload from beginning to end. I was drawn to Polly and the Screen Time Overload because of it’s title and subject matter. I loved that Polly’s story was dealt with a Biblical approach and that it was written in such a way that young kids can understand and relate. The illustrations are adorable. There is also a “Note to Grownups” in the back that I believe has good tips and ideas on how to help the children in your life handle technology in a healthy manner. I believe Polly and the Screen Time Overload is a fantastic book for the whole family to read that teaches a timely lesson. If you are looking for a tool to help teach your child concerning technological boundaries with a Biblical perspective, then I highly recommend Polly and the Screen Time Overload!

Have you read Polly and the Screen Time Overload? What did you think of the book? What tips do you have for too much screen time?

I would like to thank NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Learn More About:

Betsy Childs Howard | Samara Hardy

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Book Review: As Long As You Both Shall Live

Synopsis from Amazon:

Social worker Sharee Jones has enough to think about–anonymous phone calls, an attack on her life, and uneasiness about her relationship with missionary pilot John Jergenson. The last thing she wants is a marriage proposal.

Commitment to God was easy in the jungles of Indonesia, but when John Jergenson returns home, Sharee refuses his marriage proposal, someone tries to kill them, and a personal tragedy hits. As Easter approaches, will love prevail and his faith survive?

Publisher: Lone Mesa Publishing

Source: Linda K. Rodante

Leslie’s Review: 5 Stars/A favorite of 2022

I absolutely loved and enjoyed reading As Long As You Both Shall Live by Linda K. Rodante! As Long As You Both Shall Live is full of intrigue, suspense, and Biblical Truth that will leave you on the edge of your seat! As Long As You Both Shall Live tells the story of John Jergenson and his girlfriend Sharee Jones. The book opens up with John returning from a missionary trip and asking Sharee to marry him. Sharee refuses John’s proposal due to uncertainty and having someone who is essentially stalking her. As the story unfolds, John and Sharee try their best to hang onto their relationship at all costs regardless of the fact that their lives tend to be constantly in danger. As Long As You Both Shall Live tells the story of trying to hold on to your Faith despite insurmountable odds and standing up for what the Bible says no matter what.

I read a lot of Christian Suspense books (they are my go-to genre) and very rarely do they keep me on the edge of my seat the way Ms. Rodante’s As Long As You Both Shall Live did. Ms. Rodante has a way of writing Christian Suspense in such a way that the intrigue and keeping you on the edge does not detour or shy away from the Biblical Truth included within the mystery. I loved the characters of Sharee and John. I appreciated the realistic things that they struggled with as a couple and that they were approached and dealt with in a Biblical and Godly manner. I loved that As Long As You Both Shall Live had so many twists and turns that I was often surprised as the reader as to how things were actually going to turn out. I really appreciated how seamlessly the Biblical Truth and suspense were intertwined throughout the book.

As Long As You Both Shall Live is the second book in The Dangerous Series by Linda K. Rodante and the first Christian Suspense novel I have read from Ms. Rodante, but not the last. With As Long As You Both Shall Live being the second in The Dangerous Series, I was not lost like I get sometimes when I start in the middle of a series, because the books in The Dangerous Series can be read as stand alone books. If you are looking for an awesome, edge-of-your-seat read then I highly recommend As Long As You Both Shall Live by Linda K. Rodante!

Have you read As Long As You Both Shall Live? What did you think of the book? Have you read any of the other books in The Dangerous Series? What do you think of the series?

I would like to thank Linda K. Rodante for giving me a copy of As Long As You Both Shall Live to review and for help in obtaining media information for this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Learn More About:

Linda K. Rodante

Linda is a Florida transplant now living in Tennessee. She loves sweet tea, apple butter and both the mountains and the oceans. Her work with crisis pregnancy centers and anti-trafficking groups gave her a heart for women struggling in today’s society, while still respecting the role God has given men.

She writes Christian romantic suspense novels. Her books wrap sweet romance in real-life issues women face today with an edge of mystery and suspense. She desires to entertain and encourage women in their walk with the Lord. Her books can be found on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Linda-K.-Rodante/e/B012OITZ2Y/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0

She’s a past finalist of ACFW’s Genesis contest and a member of Word Weavers International.

Her two series, The Dangerous Series and The Spiritual Warfare Series, are each unique. Both are fun to read in order, but every book is also a stand-alone.

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Book Review: Good Morning, Little One: New Mercies and Prayers to Carry You Through the Day

Synopsis from Amazon:

Reassure kids that God is carrying them throughout the day with these morning affirmations and whimsical illustrations from beloved author Amy Kavelaris. Adorable animals with gorgeous floral art and words of hope remind little ones of God’s love, security, and peace for the day ahead.

Through a child’s eyes, the world can be beautiful, wonder-filled, and a bit fear-filled all at the same time. Remind your little one that God is always near with this unique book of blessings. A beautiful companion to Amy Kavelaris’s popular Good Night, My Darling Dear, this inspirational picture book

reassures children ages 4 to 8 that God carries them through good days, hard days, and anxious days
shares biblical promises of God’s love, purpose, and protection
features the whimsical imagery of nature and animals that has made Kavelaris’s art beloved
encourages kids to discover God each day and joyfully live out who He created them to be
gives children confidence to be brave in scary and unexpected situations

This unique book of blessings and prayers will remind your little one of God’s loving promises revealed in nature: that He protects us from the rain, He covers us with His wings, He shines His light into the darkness, and most of all, He’ll always be with us. Good Morning, Little One by artist Amy Kavelaris

includes a stunning cover with a jacket over hardcover
makes a touching keepsake gift book for a child’s Easter basket, baby showers, and other new beginnings such as adoption, a new sibling, or the first day of school
is an enchanting piece of art for a botanical nursery or child’s bedroom
is ideal for any parent, grandparent, or family who wants to establish a tradition of blessing their child in the morning

There’s no better way to start the day than praying over your children with this sweet, Scripture-based book about trusting God to carry each of you in His gentle arms.

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Source: NetGalley

Leslie’s Review: 5 Stars/A favorite of 2022

Good Morning, Little One: New Mercies and Prayers to Carry You Through the Day is a beautifully illustrated and written book by Amy Kavelaris. Good Morning, Little One: New Mercies and Prayers to Carry You Through the Day is a prayer/poem backed by Biblical Truth geared towards 4 to 8 year-olds. Good Morning, Little One: New Mercies and Prayers to Carry You Through the Day is a sweet, encouraging book that lets kids of all ages know that God is always with them and is listening to them no matter what they go through.

First of all, I loved the illustrations and how they were woven perfectly with each stanza of the book. I loved the reminders of God’s Promises the book addresses no matter what we go through–rain or shine, happy or sad. I loved that Ms. Kavelaris focused on how God carries us through our situations and keeps us safe, not taking things away entirely. I believe that Good Morning, Little One: New Mercies and Prayers to Carry You Through the Day would be a great edition to anyone’s library. It would be perfect for a Christian education setting, Family Devotion time, or a bedtime story for the family. Not only is Good Morning, Little One: New Mercies and Prayers to Carry You Through the Day a good reminder of God’s Promises to children, but it is a good reminder to adults too. I highly recommend Good Morning, Little One: New Mercies and Prayers to Carry You Through the Day by Amy Kavelaris and believe it will be encouragement to all who read it.

Have you read Good Morning, Little One: New Mercies and Prayers to Carry You Through the Day? What did you think of the book?

I would like to thank NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Learn More About:

Amy Kavelaris

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Book Review: Encouragement Exhortation and Miracles: 30-Day Devotional

Synopsis from Amazon:

Take thirty days to be encouraged in the goodness of God.

Taking real miracles that happened in the author’s mother’s life (and in her own), Linda Rodante offers a small book that will encourage and challenge and renew your faith. God still does miracles. Daily. He answers prayer. Daily. And he—daily—wants us to visit with him. Why? Because he loves us!

Publisher: Linda K. Rodante

Source: Purchased from Amazon

Leslie’s Review: 5 Stars/A Favorite of 2022

I absolutely loved and adored Encouragement Exhortation and Miracles: 30-Day Devotional by Linda K. Rodante! Encouragement Exhortation and Miracles: 30-Day Devotional is the Testimony of Ms. Rodante’s Mother, and in essence, a part of the entire Family’s Testimony as well. Encouragement Exhortation and Miracles has 30 entries to read during your devotion time. Each devotion tells a story from Ms. Rodante’s Mother’s life and how she lived for Jesus. Each devotion has a Bible verse at the end and a closing thought on the story that was told. Some of the devotion entries are written from other Family Member’s perspectives as well.

Ms. Rodante’s Mother got saved later in life and Jesus changed her entire world. Once Ms. Rodante’s Mother gave her life to Jesus, He led her on an adventure of lifetime. Wherever God told Ms. Rodante’s Mother to go, she went and God ALWAYS provided.

I really enjoyed Encouragement Exhortation and Miracles: 30-Day Devotional! It was such an encouraging and uplifting read. I enjoyed reading the devotional and learning about Ms. Rodante’s Family. I gleaned something from every devotion entry I read. I loved learning about Ms. Rodante’s Mother and her Testimony of Unshakable Faith and how she was fearless to do things for God. I loved how Ms. Rodante’s Mother did whatever she felt the Lord leading her to do and how God in turn, provided for her over and over again because of her faithfulness and obedience to Him. I loved how full of Biblical Truth Encouragement Exhortation and Miracles: 30-Day Devotional is.

We could all learn something from Ms. Rodante’s Mother’s Testimony. If you are looking for an uplifting read full of Biblical Truth, then I highly recommend Encouragement Exhortation and Miracles: 30-Day Devotional. I believe it will give you encouragement in your daily walk with the Lord.

Have you read Encouragement Exhortation and Miracles: 30-Day Devotional? What devotion entry stuck out to you?

I would like to thank Ms. Rodante for help in getting pictures and media information for this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Learn More About:

Linda K. Rodante

https://www.amazon.com/Linda-K.-Rodante/e/B012OITZ2Y/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0

She’s a past finalist of ACFW’s Genesis contest and a member of Word Weavers International.

Her two series, The Dangerous Series and The Spiritual Warfare Series, are each unique. Both are fun to read in order, but every book is also a stand-alone.

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Book Review: The Acrostic of Jesus: A Rhyming Christology for Kids

Synopsis from New Growth Press:

“Resurrection, because Jesus gives life to the dead; 
Before he was risen, he gave his life in our stead. 
See, all of us will die, returning back to the dust;
But he’ll raise us like Lazarus—we just have to trust.
Without sin, he is righteous, born of a virgin.
By his resurrection, our salvation is certain.
Now he is risen, ruling, and reigning,
Soon he’ll be returning, to begin the final raising!”

Catechism can be fun! The Acrostic of Jesus is a joy to read over and over again, and a brilliant tool to help kids gain a greater understanding of Christ. Young readers will learn “Christology”—the study of Jesus. The more we learn about Jesus, the more reasons we have to love him!

By giving children an alphabetical list of the names and attributes of Jesus written with a rhyming beat, Jonathan Gibson and Timothy Brindle make The Acrostic of Jesus fun to read and simple to memorize. Each characteristic, A to Z, weaves together a beautiful picture of who Jesus is and why he came to earth.

Using the alphabet to teach about God has a rich history in the Bible, especially in the Psalms and Lamentations. Several of the psalms—notably Psalm 119—begin with letters of the Hebrew alphabet, forming an acrostic that spells out the entire alphabet.

The authors make learning Christology easy and enjoyable. Their book shows Jesus as he is, not “just to know about him more in our brains, but to know him as the God of glory who reigns.”

Illustrated by C. S. Fritz, The Acrostic of Jesus is the second in the series, An Acrostic Theology for Kids, introducing children ages five to eleven to systematic theology uniquely on their age level.

Publisher: New Growth Press

Source: New Growth Press

Leslie’s Review: 4 Stars/I really, really love it!

The Acrostic of Jesus: A Rhyming Christology for Kids is a really neat book by Jonathan Gibson and Timothy Brindle. The Acrostic of Jesus: A Rhyming Christology for Kids takes the alphabet and comes up with some of the different names of Christ or attributes of Christ to match up with each letter. Each letter explains what the name or attribute means in regards to Jesus and has corresponding Bible verses to go with each letter.

I liked how the words for each letter were explained and how easy it is for children to understand. I loved that the Bible verses corresponded with each letter and how they are a perfect fit to that particular letter. The illustrations in the book fit well with each letter. There is also a QR Code of a rap/audio copy of the book located in the back of the book. I think The Acrostic of Jesus: A Rhyming Christology for Kids would be a good resource for ministers and families. The Acrostic of Jesus: A Rhyming Christology for Kids would also be a good resource for devotion time or a series of lessons. I believe that you will have fun learning about some of the names of Jesus and His attributes through The Acrostic of Jesus: A Rhyming Christology for Kids.

Have you read The Acrostic of Jesus: A Rhyming Christology for Kids? Which name or attribute of Jesus did you like best?

I would like to thank New Growth Press for giving me a copy of The Acrostic of Jesus: A Rhyming Christology for Kids to review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Learn More About:

Jonathan Gibson | Timothy Brindle | C.S. Fritz