Read With Audra Presents: Jesus Rose For Me by Jared Kennedy

The Reason We Celebrate Easter
Jesus Rose for Me introduces young
children to the true story of Easter

Jelly beans, decorating eggs, new clothes, and going to church as a family. All of these things are synonymous with Easter, right? For little kids, those things are Easter. However, it’s important for them to learn what Easter is really all about. That’s where Jesus Rose for Me: The True Story of Easter (New Growth Press/March 2, 2020) written by Jared Kennedy and illustrated by Trish Mahoney comes in.

Every Easter, we celebrate that Jesus is more powerful than death. But what does that mean for the youngest members of the family?
Jesus Rose for Me helps toddlers and preschoolers understand the true meaning of Easter in a personal, memorable way. Created for children ages three to seven, this beautifully illustrated board book begins with Palm Sunday and ends with Easter, when Jesus rose for us. Children will learn that Jesus is our king, and that everyone who trusts in him is part of his forever family.

“Children need to know that Jesus rose, but more importantly, they need to know that Jesus rose for them,” says Kennedy. “I’m excited about Jesus Rose for Me because I know that the resurrection changed everything. And my prayer is that this resource will help kids to know, understand, and believe it.”

Part of The Beginner’s Gospel Story Bible series, this conversational book simply tells the story of the gospel. It includes simple reflection questions to facilitate family discussion. In doing so, Jesus Rose for Me allows parents, grandparents and teachers help kids understand that Jesus died for us and rose from the dead. Through the compelling content and modern, vivid illustrations, children can live in the joy of the greatest truth of all: Jesus is alive! Because he is alive, all can celebrate that every day is resurrection day.

“For parents who want to make sure their children understand Easter as more than pastel–colored eggs, pretty clothes, and pictures with Grandma, this book is for you,” shares Daniel Darling, author and VP of Communications at ERLC. “The most important truth you can pass down to your children is the story of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, and Jesus Rose for Me is the creative, beautifully–written, artistically designed resource you need. If Easter changed everything, then this book helps your littlest ones know, understand and believe it.”

While understanding why Christians celebrate Easter is incredibly important, Kennedy does not want parents to think they have to put all the fun and games aside. “Maybe the most important thing you can do is to show your kids the impact of the resurrection by giving them your time, presence, love, and joy. Hide and hunt those eggs a third and fourth time. Enjoy a chocolate bunny! And let your kids hear you sing with joy in your heart because your Savior lives!”

Jesus Rose for Me
by Jared Kennedy, Illustrated by Trish Mahoney
March 2, 2020 / Board book / Retail Price: $11.99
Print ISBN 978-1-645070-45-0
Religion / Christian Ministry/ Children

About The Author

Jared Kennedy, MDiv, ThM, is the co-founder and managing editor of Gospel-Centered Family, a ministry that helps churches and families share Jesus with the next generation. He also serves as the Children’s and Family Ministry Strategist for the Sojourn Network, and is an adjunct professor at Boyce College.

He is the author of The Beginner's Gospel Story Bible, Are You Close to God?, Jesus Rose for Me, Jesus Came for Me (available October 2020), and God Made Me for Worship (available October 2020). He has also helped to develop two VBS programs, Proof Pirates and Clap Your Hands, Stomp Your Feet.

He blogs regularly at Gospel-Centered Family and contributes to The Gospel Coalition, ERLC and He Reads Truth.

He and his wife, Megan, have three daughters.

Read more from Jared Kennedy at gospelcenteredfamily.com. He can also be found on Twitter (@jaredskennedy).

About the illustrator:

Trish Mahoney is a graphic designer and illustrator in Seattle where she runs The Mahoney Studio with her husband, Patrick, also a designer and illustrator. They have two children—both budding artists too. Trish illustrated The Beginner's Gospel Story Bible and is also the illustrator for the God Made Me series.

Endorsements

“The crucifixion and resurrection are the central events of the entire Christian faith. And yet, few books for the youngest of our children have focused on the meaning of the cross and the empty tomb. This exploration of the resurrection is thoroughly biblical yet written in a way that even a preschooler can understand—and parents who read this book to their children are likely to find their own faith strengthened as well.”
~ Timothy Paul Jones, Ph.D., Professor of Christian Apologetics, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

“Too many gospel presentations leave Jesus hanging on the cross. But a dead Savior is no Savior at all. In Jesus Rose for Me, Jared Kennedy completes the story. Read this radiant book to a young child, and introduce them to the living King who loves them.”
~ Matt Smethurst, Managing editor, The Gospel Coalition; author of Before You Open Your Bible: Nine Heart Postures for Approaching God’s Word

My Review

 

This hard covered book is great for little hands, and sturdily made for them to carry around.
This book is timely as we are in the Lent season at this point, and I was looking for something to share with my little niece, and have her continue to grow in the Christian faith. The book has brightly colored pictures showing Jesus and his last week here on Earth.
Several of the pages also have scripture references for referral of the adult reading this too and encouraging the little one, while helping you answer their questions, and help focus on the real meaning of this Christian Holiday, beyond the baskets, eggs and rabbit.

I received this book through Read With Audra, and was not required to give a positive review.

An Amish Easter Wish (Green Mountain Blessings #2) by Jo Ann Brown

Fixing a family isn’t what she signed up for…

Patching hearts wasn’t the plan…

But this father and daughter need her help.

Overseeing kitchen volunteers while the community rebuilds after a flood, Abby Kauffman doesn’t expect to get in between Englischer David Riehl and the orphaned teenager he’s raising. But Abby can tell David is struggling, and she’s determined to help him bond with the girl. Might Abby be the missing ingredient to bring this makeshift family together for Easter?

Amazon


About The Author

Jo Ann Brown has been creating characters and stories for as long as she can remember. Her first stories were populated with her friends and sisters. She wrote her first novel in high school, and it happily resides in the forgotten depths of her file cabinet. Fast forward through college, serving in the US Army as a quartermaster officer, getting married, and increasing her blessings with three children...and Jo Ann sold her first book in 1987. Since it was published in 1988, she has sold over 100 titles and has become a best-selling and award-winning author. Romantic Times called her “a truly talented author.” She writes romance, mystery, and YA under a variety of pen names. Now she is writing Amish romances for Love Inspired and Annie’s Fiction as Jo Ann Brown.
Her books have been translated into nearly a dozen languages and are sold on every continent except Antarctica. A sought-after speaker, she has been teaching creative writing for over 20 years, and she established several popular fiction courses at Brown University. She resides in Florida with her husband and about a zillion little lizards in her yard.

Website


My Review

We are back in the Green Mountains and with the people volunteering to build new homes for those who lost them in the floods.
This story focuses on Abby Kauffman and David Riehl, now doesn't that name sound Amish, and a young teen orphan who has become David's new daughter.
I loved that this story shows the goodness to help fellow men, and we see it in many ways, we also meet a bunch of bullies, some teenagers, an others grown adults. Also we try to find solutions the the guilt some of these individuals are holding on to.
There is a bit of romance here, how these two are able to come together is a road full of rubble and road blocks.
A quick read, and a book to get lost in.

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Love Inspired, and was not required to give a positive review.

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The Happy Camper by Melody Carlson

Home is the place to heal, right? At least, that's what Dillon Michaels is hoping as she leaves her disappointing career and nonstarter love life behind to help her grieving and aging grandfather on his small Oregon farm. The only problem? Her eccentric mother beat her there and has taken over Dillon's old room. After a few nights sleeping on a sagging sofa, Dillon is ready to give up, until she receives an unlikely gift--her grandfather's run-down vintage camp trailer, which she quickly resolves to restore with the help of Jordan Atwood, the handsome owner of the local hardware store.

But just when things are finally beginning to run smoothly, Dillon's noncommittal ex-boyfriend shows up with roses . . . and a ring.

Amazon


About The Author

Melody Carlson is the award-winning author of over two hundred books, several of them Christmas novellas from Revell, including her much-loved and bestselling book, The Christmas Bus.

She also writes many teen books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series, the TrueColors series, and the Carter House Girls series.

Melody was nominated for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her books, including the Notes from a Spinning Planet series and Finding Alice, which is in production as a Lifetime Television movie. She and her husband serve on the Young Life adult committee in central Oregon.

Website


My Review

I have been reading some heavy in-depth books lately and this one hit the spot, light hearted and kept me smiling most of the time.
I loved the twins, they seemed so real, and could actually picture them, first hating to learn to swim, and loving when they were with Dillion at the camp ground.
The author gives us family dynamics at all levels, and you wonder if they will all survive to the end, will there be healing and forgiving?
There is some sweet romance here, and some that don't get the message, or at least need it hammered in. Sometimes we take for granted what we have, until it is gone, but will be able to retrieve it?
Add in a sweet old camper, and then the truck to pull it, and we are on a restoration, we also have gardening, and mega amounts of lavender!
You will be quickly caught up here in this small town, and I would love to go camping with this loving group!

I received this book through the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.

Celebrate Lit Presents: Killer Harvest by Tanya Stowe

About the Book

Book:  Killer Harvest
Author: Tanya Stowe
Genre:  Inspirational Romantic Suspense
Release Date: March, 2020

Can she stop a deadly crop virus from ending up in the wrong hands? Biologist and single mom Sassa Nilsson just witnessed her mentor’s brutal murder by environmental extremists. Now she’s the last link to a deadly pathogen they plan unleashing—and their number one target! But can handsome border patrol agent Jared De Luca shield Sassa and her baby long enough to find a cure…before the entire world faces the unthinkable consequences?


Click here for your copy.

About the Author

Tanya Stowe is a Christian Fiction author with an unexpected edge. She is married to the love of her life, her high school sweetheart. They have four children and twenty-one grandchildren, a true adventure. She fills her books with the unusual…mysteries and exotic travel, even a murder or two. No matter where Tanya takes you…on a trip to foreign lands or a suspenseful journey packed with danger…be prepared for the extraordinary.

More from Tanya

As a teenager, I spent my summers water-skiing on the King’s River in Central California. Even though we lived on the coast and the ocean, we traveled inland to the smooth river waters every other weekend for our sport. We camped on a sandy beach, skimmed over the water all day long and at night sat under a sky full of brilliant stars and listened to the sound of the water rippling past. Since we lived on the coast with a heavy marine layer, the amazing sky always fascinated me. Surrounded by massive cottonwood trees, with the smell of ripe fruit drifting toward us, my river experiences were different from home and more than memorable. On some nights we’d hear the splash and laughter as teenagers, somewhere across the river, came down to swim. I always wondered what it would be like to live in the nearby small, neat-as-a-pin town, to know the same people all of my life and to be able to drive down to the river with my friends on any given night. I envied those teenagers and always knew I’d someday write a story about central California. I didn’t know it would involve biological warfare and crazed killers…but that transition is another story all its own! I’ll stop here and hope you enjoy Killer Harvest!

Blog Stops

The Avid Reader, March 7

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 7

deb’s Book Review, March 7

Texas Book-aholic, March 8

Simple Harvest Reads, March 8 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 9

Among the Reads, March 9

Genesis 5020, March 9

For Him and My Family, March 10

Kat’s Corner Books, March 10

April Hayman, Author, March 10

Inklings and notions, March 11

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 11

Betti Mace, March 12

Reading Is My SuperPower, March 12

Bigreadersite, March 12

Through the Fire Blogs, March 13

Maureen’s Musings, March 13

Older & Smarter?, March 14

She Lives To Read, March 14

Remembrancy, March 15

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, March 15

Blogging With Carol, March 15

Emily Yager, March 16

Blossoms and Blessings, March 16

janicesbookreviews, March 17

Daysong Reflections, March 17

Mary Hake, March 17

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, March 18

Pause for Tales, March 18

Tell Tale Book Reviews, March 19

SPLASHES of Joy, March 19

Hallie Reads, March 19

Artistic Nobody, March 20 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, March 20

To Everything There Is A Season, March 20

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Tanya is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/f640/killer-harvest-celebration-tour-giveaway

My Review

Once you turn the first page the non-stop action begins, and continues right to the end, and why? Because of evil! People with no regard for human life and they will not let anyone in their way to perpetrate their plague on mankind.
A young mother, scientist, with a heart for God, and she holds in her hands the key to destruction, or maybe the way to find a cure for what the evil ones hope to spread.
We are also gifted with a Border Patrol Agent, a man who is struggling with his faith, but he has a heart for justice and we find he soon has feeling for our scientist, Sassa, and her little daughter.
Will Jared and Sassa be able to forge a relationship, will they be able to stop the evil that will demolish the world, the answers are here, but getting there and who will be left at the end, with shots and murders happening, including suicides. Suspense with a side of romance!

I received this book through Celebrate Lit, and was not required to give a positive review.

Celebrate Lit Presents: His Unexpected Amish Twins by Rachel J. Good

About the Book

Book:  His Unexpected Amish Twins
Author: Rachel J. Good
Genre:  Amish Romance
Release Date: February 28, 2020

When Micah Miller’s brother and sister-in-law are killed in a buggy accident, he’s devastated, but he fulfills a promise to raise their seven-year-old twins, Abby and Isaac. While struggling to deal with the twins’ grief and Abby’s anger toward God, he discovers an Amish farm offering horse therapy for grief. And he’s thrilled to find the owner cares about and prays for the twins.
Hope Graber had to find a way to save the family farm after her daed’s unwise decisions. Even selling off many of the horses didn’t cover all the bills. After deciding to use the remaining horses for animal therapy, she brings on Logan Russell, an experienced trainer, to help her. Together they not only start paying off the debts, but they also make positive changes in children’s lives.
Hope loves helping each child, but she takes a special interest in the twins and determines to help them heal both emotionally and spiritually. As she gently guides Abby back to God and makes the little girl smile again, Hope also makes Micah’s life brighter. As he emerges from his depression, he longs to make them one happy family, but only God can overcome the many obstacles in their path.

Click here for your copy!

About the Author

USA Today bestselling author RACHEL J. GOOD writes life-changing, heart-tugging novels of faith, hope, and forgiveness. She grew up near Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, the setting for her Amish novels. Striving to be as authentic as possible, she spends time with her Amish friends, doing chores on their farm and attending family events.

Rachel is the author of several Amish series in print or forthcoming – the bestselling Love & Promises, Sisters & Friends, Unexpected Amish Blessings, Surprised by Love (2021), and two books in Hearts of Amish Country – as well as the Amish Quilts Coloring Books. In addition, she has stories in many anthologies, including Love’s Thankful Heart,Love’s Christmas Blessings,Plain Everyday Heroes, Love’s Truest Hope,and the forthcoming Amish Christmas Twins (Fall 2020) with Shelley Shepard Gray and Loree Lough.

More from Rachel

Phobias and Faith

“Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14: 27b KJV)

In every book I write, I like the hero and heroine to experience character growth. I think it’s important that they change and become different. So, in His Unexpected Amish Twins, Micah faces several life-changing events. First, his life is turned upside-down when he becomes the guardian of his niece and nephew, seven-year-old twins. Although he loves the children dearly, as a young, single man, he isn’t quite ready to handle his lively, rebellious niece and his silent, withdrawn nephew, especially not when he’s grieving himself.

But with the help of horse therapist, Hope Graber, Micah puts aside his own pain to concentrate on caring for the twins. But Micah is also hiding a deep-seated phobia.

As a child, he had a terrible experience, one that scarred him for life. One that still haunts him and terrorizes him. One that may destroy his future relationship with Hope.

Getting over fear is never easy, and Micah prays for strength. But it isn’t until he’s forced to make a choice – give in to his fear or save a life – does he push past that fear.

Like Micah does, we often go through life hiding our fears. We make excuses not to do something that frightens us. When a fear turns into a phobia, it can become paralyzing.

For me, public speaking was my greatest fear. I managed to avoid it until I was asked to do a simple two-minute introduction each month for the Christian Women’s Club. I didn’t have to answer right away. They asked me to pray about it, and let them know my answer in a few days.

If they’d asked for an answer right away, I would have made an excuse. I had four small children and an ill husband. But the truth was – I was scared. Not just scared, but petrified. Petrified about even standing in front of an audience.

When I discussed this opportunity with my father, he suggested God might be giving me a chance to get over my fear because He had something greater for me to do in the future. My first thought was that it had better not have anything to do with public speaking.

Dad encouraged me to take a speech class, so I signed up for one. Eight people attended this informal course in the teacher’s living room. The first night we had to give a two-sentence introduction of ourselves. We didn’t even have to stand up.

I went last. My turn came, and my mind went blank. I couldn’t even remember my name. With prompting, the teacher got me to stumble through my name and hometown.

Our assignment for the following week was to prepare a three-minute demonstration of one of our hobbies. We could use notes and props. I mumbled through the speech, rushed out the door to my car, and vomited in the street. Yes, I was that frightened by public speaking.

I told my father I planned to quit the class, but he encouraged me to continue. And several months later, I stood in front of the women’s club. My eyes blurred, and I couldn’t see the people in front of me. I hurried through my memorized two-minute introduction clutching my note cards in case I forgot the words. I had no idea what I said, but several people mentioned that they liked it. And I went on to do it every month for two years.

And my father was right. God did train me for a future job. Wouldn’t Dad be surprised to know that, as an author, I speak in front of audiences around the country? He died before my first book was published, but I suspect he’s up in heaven cheering me on. And I could never have done it without God’s help.

Micah and I both had to learn to trust God’s promise: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1: 9 NIV)

Blog Stops

For the Love of Literature, March 4

Maureen’s Musings, March 5

The Avid Reader, March 5

Through the Lens of Scripture, March 6

Texas Book-aholic, March 7

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 7

For Him and My Family, March 8

janicesbookreviews, March 8

Inklings and notions, March 9

deb’s Book Review, March 9

Blossoms and Blessings, March 10

Jeanette’s Thoughts, March 10

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, March 11

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, March 11

Vicky Sluiter, March 12

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 12

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 13

Splashes of Joy, March 14

Bigreadersite, March 14

Artistic Nobody, March 15 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Blogging With Carol, March 16

Genesis 5020, March 16

EmpowerMoms, March 17

My Devotional Thoughts, March 17

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Rachel is giving away the grand prize package of an autographed copy of the book and $25 VISA gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/f72a/his-unexpected-amish-twins-celebration-tour-giveaway

My Review

God knew what he was doing when he put Hope Graber at the scene of a horrible fatal accident. A woman who has a heart to help children, she has a gift of helping those in need succeed, and she helps these kids with their grief.
Enter the uncle of these orphans, he made a commitment to take care of these seven year old twins, if the unthinkable happened.
We are also given mothers who throw their daughters at the single bachelor, a man who is damaging his family with his vice, and also Amish man afraid of horses.
As we journey in the Amish community, you will see God at work in their lives, and we witness healing, and the bloom of love.

I received this book through Celebrate Lit, and was not required to give a positive review. 

The Runaway Bride (The Bride Ships, #2) by Jody Hedlund

Wealthy Arabella Lawrence flees to British Columbia on a bride ship still wearing the scars of past mistakes. One of the few single women in the boomtown, she immediately has suitors, but she is determined not to find herself trapped again by a poor choice.

Vying for her hand are two very different men. Lieutenant Richard Drummond is a gentleman in the Navy and is held in high esteem. Peter Kelly is the town's baker and has worked hard to build a thriving business. He and Drummond not only compete for Arabella's affections, but clash over their views of how the natives should be treated in the midst of a smallpox outbreak.

As Arabella begins to overcome her fears, she discovers someone in dire need—a starving girl abandoned by her tribe. Intent on helping the girl, Arabella leans on Peter's advice and guidance. Will she have the wisdom to make the right decision or will seeking what's right cost both her and Peter everything?

Amazon


About The Author

Jody Hedlund is the author of over twenty historicals for both adults and teens and is the winner of numerous awards including the Christy, Carol, and Christian Book Award.

Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. Although Jody prefers to experience daring and dangerous adventures through her characters rather than in real life, she’s learned that a calm existence is simply not meant to be (at least in this phase of her life!).

When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.

Website


My Review

This is the second book in this series that I have read, and they can be read separately. They are both really good!
When the facts unfold as to why the wealthy Arabella fled England and embarked to the unknown wilds of British Columbia, you will cringe. I had to wonder how long she would have survived if she had stayed?
We also meet the kind hearted baker Peter Kelly and the Navy Lieutenant Drummond, whom I had a bad feeling about.
Loved the compassion showed by some to the Natives, especially the starving little girls.
Will Arabella end up with finding true love, or will she end up with wealth? Will there be justice here for all, keep reading!

I Received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Bethany House, and was not required to give a positive review.

One Little Lie (Pelican Harbor #1) by Colleen Coble

It started with one little lie. But Jane Hardy will do everything in her power to uncover the truth. 

Book one in a gripping new series from USA TODAY bestselling romantic suspense author Colleen Coble.

When Jane Hardy is appointed interim sheriff in Pelican Harbor, Alabama, after her father retires, there's no time for an adjustment period. He is arrested for theft and then implicated in a recent murder, and Jane quickly realizes she's facing someone out to destroy her father.

They escaped from a cult fifteen years ago, and Jane has searched relentlessly for her mother—who refused to leave—ever since. Could someone from that horrible past have found them?

Reid Bechtol is a well-known journalist who makes documentaries, and his sights are currently set on covering Jane's career. Jane has little interest in the attention, but the committee who appointed her loves the idea of the publicity.

Jane finds herself depending on Reid's calm manner as he follows her around taping his documentary, and they begin working together to clear her father. But Reid has his own secrets from the past, and the gulf between them may be impossible to cross.

It started with one little lie. But Jane Hardy will do everything in her power to uncover the truth.

Amazon


About The Author

USAToday bestselling author Colleen Coble lives with her husband, Dave, in Indiana. She is the author of dozens of novels including the Rock Harbor Series, the Aloha Reef Series, the Mercy Falls Series, the Hope Beach Series, the Lonestar Series and two Women of Faith fiction selections, Alaska Twilight and Midnight Sea. She has more than 2 million books in print.

Website


My Review

The title of this book is appropriate, but one little lie morphed into many more, and then they were no longer little.
As the story begins, Officer Jane Hardy has just made Chief of Police, succeeding her father in the job. We soon see not all are happy about her appointment, and when bodies begin to appear, some think she is not up to the task.
Now the City has given the go ahead for a noted journalist to follow here to make a new documentary, but there sure seems to be something else going on?
This book is full of secrets, and when they fall, yes, I was surprised by some, but others blew my mind, I never saw them coming.
I became so involved in this story, and in the end didn't want it to end, and yes, there is a teaser at the end, another book is coming in the Fall.

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Thomas Nelson, and was not required to give a positive review.

Selah (The Sugar Baron's Daughters, #3) by Lisa Tawn Bergren

Selah Banning has come of age on the West Indies island of Nevis, shaped by experiences far beyond the typical upbringing of a young British lady in 1777. She never anticipated that the most tumultuous time of her life might await her in the year ahead.

Jedediah Reed, a young Methodist preacher with a call to serve the slaves of Nevis, has settled at Selah's family's plantation, the Double T. As Selah's heart is drawn to the same people, their shared purpose brings them together--despite her guardians' concern with a romance that promises little security for the future.

As Jedediah's faith and Selah's abolitionist leanings lead to changes on the plantation, the Revolutionary War continues to build in the States. With the threat of starvation and the conflict with island mogul Angus Shubert growing ever stronger, the future of the Double T and its people hangs in the balance.

Amazon 


About The Author

Lisa Tawn Bergren is the best-selling, award-winning author of over 50 books, with more than 3 million copies sold. She is in the middle of writing The Sugar Baron's Daughters Series (KETURAH, VERITY and SELAH), and recently finished a teen series called Remnants (SEASON OF WONDER, SEASON OF FIRE, and SEASON OF GLORY). She's also written the River of Time Series (WATERFALL, CASCADE, TORRENT, BOURNE & TRIBUTARY, DELUGE) and The Grand Tour Series (GLAMOROUS ILLUSIONS, GRAVE CONSEQUENCES, GLITTERING PROMISES). She recent released a new time-slip romance duology called River of Time: California (THREE WISHES and FOUR WINDS).

Lisa’s time is split between managing home base, writing, consulting and helping Tim with his business. Her husband Tim is a sculptor of ducks-out-of-fenceposts (RMRustic.com), graphic designer and musician. They have three big kids–Olivia (who just got married), Emma (who just got back from Europe) and Jack (who is about to start high school).

The Bergrens make their home in Colorado Springs, Colorado. 
Website


My Review

This is the third book in the Sugar Baron series that I have read and greatly enjoyed!
This is Salah’s story the youngest sister, a young woman who wears her heart on her sleeve, and hates injustice, to the point of sacrificing her life.
Besidesher sisters, Keturah and Verity, Salah is here, and other characters we have gotten to know, along with some we know perpetrate evil, and know that some are at it again.
Loved how some of these folks go about their lives all the while helping liberate the slaves on their island, but now helping the cause of the Patriots in the States.
Yes, these books have it all and are easy to get lost in, but you will miss them when the final pages are turned.

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Bethany House and was not required to give a positive review.

Chasing the White Lion (Talia Inger #2) by James R. Hannibal

Young CIA officer Talia Inger has reconciled with the man who assassinated her father, but that doesn't mean she wants him hovering over her every move and unearthing the painful past she's trying to put behind her. Still, she'll need him--and the help of his star grifter, Valkyrie--if she hopes to infiltrate the Jungle, the first ever crowdsourced crime syndicate, to rescue a group of kidnapped refugee children.

But as Talia and her elite team of thieves con their way into the heart of the Jungle, inching ever closer to syndicate boss the White Lion, she'll run right up against the ragged edge of her family's dark past. In this game of cat and mouse, it's win . . . or die. And in times like that, it's always good to have someone watching your back.

Former tactical deception officer and stealth pilot James Hannibal takes you deep undercover into the criminal underworld where everyone has an angle and no one escapes unscathed.

Amazon


About The Author

ames R. Hannibal is the author of the award-winning Section 13 Mystery/fantasy series from Simon and Schuster Young Readers and the Thriller Award nominated Nick Baron series from Berkley Books. As a former stealth bomber pilot and drone pilot James is no stranger to action or secrets. He has been shot at, locked up by a surface to air missile system, and aided the capture of High Value Targets.

Website 


My Review

Wow! Love how the mind of this author works, you sure will never see coming all that unfolds in this read. It all seems so real like you’re watching the news or reading on the internet. Maybe this has played out and we are now hearing about it, that is how real this feels.
Now, this is the second book in this series, and yes, I have read the first, but I think this could be read alone, there are several references to the first, but you will be hooked and desire to see what you have missed!
I really love this book, and found this band of characters endearing, and thus I wanted more, and this read will keep you on your toes and holding your breath, will they survive to the end? Will the Archangel finally be found and brought to justice, or is the evil that permeates here that will win.

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.

The Crow's Call (Amish Greenhouse Mystery #1) by Wanda E. Brunstetter

Mysterious Events Plague a Greenhouse in Pennsylvania’s Amish Country

When Vernon King, his son, and son-in-law are involved in a terrible accident, three women are left to cope with their deaths, as they become the sole providers of the family they have left. The women’s only income must come from the family greenhouse, but someone seems to be trying to force them out of business.

Amy King has just lost her father and brother, and her mother needs her to help run the family’s greenhouse. It doesn’t seem fair to ask her to leave a job she loves, when there is still a sister and brother to help. But Sylvia is also grieving for her husband while left to raise three children, and Henry, just out of school, is saddled with all the jobs his father and older brother used to do. As Amy assumes her new role, she also asks Jared Riehl to put their courtship on hold. When things become even more stressful at the greenhouse, will Amy crumble under the pressure?

Amazon


About The Author

ew York Times bestselling and award-winning author, Wanda E. Brunstetter is one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre. She has written close to 90 books translated in four languages. With over 10 million copies sold, Wanda's stories consistently earn spots on the nations most prestigious bestseller lists and have received numerous awards.

Wanda’s ancestors were part of the Anabaptist faith, and her novels are based on personal research intended to accurately portray the Amish way of life. Her books are well-read and trusted by many Amish, who credit her for giving readers a deeper understanding of the people and their customs.

When Wanda visits her Amish friends, she finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and close family ties. Wanda enjoys photography, ventriloquism, gardening, bird-watching, beachcombing, and spending time with her family. She and her husband, Richard, have been blessed with two grown children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

To learn more about Wanda, visit her website at www.wandabrunstetter.com.


My Review

If you read the author’s previous series you will be familiar with a lot of the characters presented here, but this new series can be read on its own.
The book begins with a nightmare, that never ends in this story, when all but one of the men are wiped out with a buggy accident. Their father, brother and brother-in-law, what a tragic, horrific happening.
When the book ends there are a lot of unanswered questions, yes, some are answered, but I was left wondering!
Will Sylvia ever be able to have a life again beyond the security of her mother’s home and having her children in her arms? Will Henry be able to move on and accept responsibility beyond taking on the work of his Dad and brother. Will Amy be able to let herself have a life beyond the Greenhouse, and what of brother Ezekiel, will he continue to live in NY.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Barbour, and was not required to give a positive review. 

An Amish Picnic Four Stories by Amy Clipston, Kelly Irvin, Kathleen Fuller, Vannetta Chapman

From bestselling authors in the Amish genre come four sweet stories about picnics and romance.

Baskets of Sunshine by Amy Clipston

Kevin Weaver has lived with his brother’s family since his parents passed away when he was young, but he craves a home and family to call his own. Freeman Kurtz owns a successful brick mason business, and Kevin takes the job as Freeman’s apprentice to pursue his own financial freedom.

Phoebe Kurtz is helping her sister with her booth at the marketplace when she notices Kevin, her father’s employee. Their friendship grows, but Kevin is convinced that the difference in their ages makes a relationship between them impossible. Amidst summer outings, Kevin and Phoebe must decide if taking a chance on love is worth the risk.

Candlelight Sweethearts by Kelly Irvin

Esther Marie Shrock loves her job at Valley Grocery Store where she’s worked for four years. Despite a stutter that has plagued her since childhood, she thrives filling orders from a steady stream of customers. Still, at 25, she and her family wonder if romance is in her future.

Jasper Cotter isn’t good with people, but he’s found himself obligated to take over day-to-day operations of the family owned grocery store—a store he doesn’t have the first clue how to run. Thrown together, Esther Marie and Jasper don’t exactly see eye to eye. One night, the store loses power, and the candles aren’t the only things shooting off sparks. Esther Marie and Jasper are suddenly forced to discover common ground when it matters most, and they might be surprised with love along the way.

Reeling in Love by Kathleen Fuller

Nina Stoll and Ira Yoder are just friends. Just friends and fishing buddies. Every Saturday afternoon, they have a picnic at their favorite fishing hole and see who can out fish the other. Until Nina starts to wonder if there’s more.

Her plans to share her feelings go awry, and circumstances seem destined to keep Nina and Ira apart. With both Nina and Ira confused and hurting, it’s going to take courage, some help from the community matchmakers, and a little bit of divine intervention for Nina and Ira to realize they’re each other's perfect catch.

Picnics and Prospects by Vannetta Chapman

Faith Troyer is claustrophobic, and David Lapp builds tiny houses. They went on a date years ago with disastrous results. Now that they’re in their late twenties, their families and friends are beginning to wonder if either will ever find that special someone. When a picnic outing is diverted by the discovery of a package of letters dating back to the 1970s, they take it upon themselves to find answers to a mystery that causes them to rethink their past and consider their future. 

Amazon 


Amy Clipston

An author of Amish and Christian fiction with HarperCollins Christian Publishing. Most of my books focus on the Amish community, faith, and love. I also write romance novels and young adult inspirational stories.  


Kelly Irvin

The Kansas native is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and ACFW's San Antonio local chapter Alamo City Christian Fiction Writers.

A graduate of the University of Kansas William Allen White School of Journalism, Kelly has been writing nonfiction professionally for thirty years. She studied for three semesters at the University of Costa Rica, learning the Spanish language. As a journalist, she worked six years in the border towns of Laredo and El Paso.

She worked in public relations for the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department for 22 years before retiring earlier this year. Kelly has been married to photographer Tim Irvin for twenty-eight years. They have two young adult children and have three grandchildren. In her spare time, she likes to write short stories, read books by her favorite authors, and looks forward to visits with her grandchildren.

Best-selling author of Amish fiction. Also a wife, mother, crafter, coffee addict, football fan, and chocolate aficionado.

Vannetta Chapman writes inspirational fiction full of grace. She is the author of over twenty novels, including the Pebble Creek Amish series, Shipshewana Amish Mystery Series, and Plain and Simple Miracle series. Vannetta is a Carol award winner, a Christy finalist, and she also received more than two dozen awards from Romance Writers of America chapter groups. She currently writes Christian suspense, Amish romance, and Amish mystery. She was a teacher for 15 years and resides in the Texas hill country.


My Review

I really enjoyed reading this book, four different stories by four different authors, all revolving around a picnic or two.
We find there are a lot of places to have a picnic and some of them here are disasters, and others turn out wonderful, or at least they are able to get the attention of the person they want to notice them.
The picnics tie these stories together, but each author has different people involved, and some of them are old friends from previous books that I’ve read.
I love when I novellas to read, sometimes just a few minutes and I’ll read one, but all two quickly this book disappeared and the last page was turned.

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Zondervan, and was not required to give a positive review.   

Out of the Embers (Mesquite Springs #1) by Amanda Cabot

Ten years after her parents were killed, Evelyn Radcliffe is once more homeless. The orphanage that was her refuge and later her workplace has burned to the ground, and only she and a young orphan girl have escaped. Convinced this must be related to her parents' murders, Evelyn flees with the girl to Mesquite Springs in the Texas Hill Country and finds refuge in the home of Wyatt Clark, a talented horse rancher whose plans don't include a family of his own.

At first, Evelyn is a distraction. But when it becomes clear that trouble has followed her to Mesquite Springs, she becomes a full-blown disruption. Can Wyatt keep her safe from the man who wants her dead? And will his own plans become collateral damage?

Suspenseful and sweetly romantic, Out of the Embers is the first in a new series that invites you to the Texas Hill Country in the 1850s, when the West was wild, the men were noble, and the women were strong.

Amazon


About The Author

With both parents avid readers, it's no surprise that Amanda Cabot learned to read at an early age. From there it was only a small step to deciding to become a writer. Of course, deciding and becoming are two different things, as she soon discovered. Fortunately for the world, her first attempts at fiction were not published, but she did meet her goal of selling a novel by her thirtieth birthday. Since then she’s sold more than thirty-five novels. When she’s not writing, Amanda enjoys sewing, cooking and – of course – reading.

 

Website 

 

 

My Review

 

 

This story quickly became a page turner, we are shown characters with so much hate, greed, and total disregard for human life. Also we are give a character, Evelyn Radcliff, who takes a little orphan girl under her wing, gives her love and makes her her own.
This is Evelyn's and Polly's journey, and we are enriched by some of the people put in their path, but we see a side of evil that is horrible.
The author gives us a little bit of sweet romance, people who open their homes to complete stranger, and others who are unable to control their tempers, or ever care about human life. There is also a man whose goal is to receive forgiveness, but when we find out what has happened, well, it is scary.
Now I'm looking forward to the second book in this series, and if it's as excellent as this one, I can't wait!

I received this book through LibraryThing, and was not required to give a positive review.