Pumpkins

Having faith is like being a pumpkin. God picks you from the patch and washes all the dirt off. He cuts off the top and scoops out all the yucky stuff. He removes the seeds of doubt, hate and greed. He carves you a new smiling face and puts His light inside of you to shine for all the world to see.

Disclaimer: I've had this clip art on my computer for a long time. I have to idea where it came from. If it's yours, let me know and I will be happy to give credit!

Kindle for PC - Free!

Just in case, you haven't heard:

Amazon now offers a Kindle app for PCs - and it's free!  Which means that you can now download all the free Kindle books onto your computer.

Free books and no expensive equipment to buy. A truly great combination.

The Perfect Blend by Trish Perry

To elope with Rick Manfred seemed like such a good idea that Steph Vandergrift went against all the wishes of her parents and friends and left her home behind to marry him. However, on the day of her wedding, Steph finds herself in Middleburg without a groom. Rick's sudden disappearance is devastating, but when Milly Jewell brings Steph into her tea shop, Steph finds the hope to survive for the day. The last thing Steph wants to do is return to her parents and she decides to spend a few days at the Fox and Hounds Inn. Through a series of events, she meets Christie, Liz and the handsome Kendall James. Steph knows she's not ready for another relationship, but she can not deny that Kendall James is a great friend. When Rick shows back up in Steph's life, she is forced to choose between the two men. But is her choice really about who she loves or is it about her need for acceptance?

The Perfect Blend far exceeded the expectations that I had for it. It had me laughing out loud several times and I finished the book within 24 hours of starting it. The characters are extremely enjoyable though I am not sure there is any man out there as perfect as Kendall James. I am usually a stickler for authenticity in books and I had to question whether it would really be possible to fall in love with a person so quickly after being jilted by another. However, I am more than happy to suspend this question in lieu of enjoying the story for what it is: fiction. If you are looking for a light, humorous, sweet romance, this book is for you!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Harvest House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Woman of Means by Thom Lemmons

Physical exercise is at first a hobby and then a reprieve for Lydia as she grows older. Her will to run reflects the tenacious heart inside her that longs for something more. Leaving her family behind is difficult for Lydia, but hope for the future propels her on. It is that abiding hope and tenacious spirit that will lead her to God.

The reader of this story has a unique perspective as the narrative starts at the end of Lydia's life and the reader learns about Lydia's past as her life is concluding. The book seems to be Biblically accurate. Though Lydia is mentioned in the Bible and a few facts are given about her, the majority of her life story remains obscure. That's where the fiction portion comes in.

Unfortunately, for some reason, I found this book to be depressing. I am not sure if it is because Lydia is literally dying from the beginning of the book until the end or if it is something else. Though the plot of the book moved a little slow for my liking, the conclusion was pretty good. I did enjoy the very unique character of Xerxes. However, because of the depressing nature of the book, I have to recommend renting this book from the library before buying.

Today's Quote

"The most difficult thing I have ever had to do is follow the guidance I prayed for."

- Albert Schweitzer

Sammy and His Shepherd: Seeing Jesus in Psalm 23

Sammy is a young sheep who loves his shepherd and is loved in return. When he encounters a lonely sheep outside of his flock who has no name and a careless shepherd, Sammy befriends her. Sammy's new friend is eventually purchased from her careless shepherd by Sammy's watchful shepherd and named Precious. Sammy and Precious follow their shepherd to the high places and learn life lessons as they go. Ultimately, Precious comes to learn that she can trust her shepherd because his love is never-ending.

The story of Sammy and His Shepherd parallels Psalm 23 of the Bible. Psalm 23 is perhaps one of the most well-known chapters of the Bible and it is certainly worth teaching to children. Each chapter of Precious and Sammy's story is titled with a phrase from the Psalm and deals with the theme of that phrase. There is a “Talk About It” section at the end of the book which can help the parent and child delve deeper into each theme presented. This section includes additional Bible verses, questions to talk about and suggestions of things to do. This practical application section reinforces the simple, truthful teachings set forth in the story.

The illustrations in this book were beautiful. However, I wished there had been more of them. There was basically one illustrated page per chapter. At times this allowed for there to be two pages that were just straight text. Other than that, it is a great childrens book that has the potential to teach Biblical lessons and encourage parent-child devotional time. I recommend this book for children ages 4 to 9.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Reformation Trust Publishing. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Masquerade by Nancy Moser

At the age of 19, Charlotte “Lottie” Gleason is spoiled, rich and nearly engaged to Conrad Tremaine, the son of a wealthy merchant in America. Lottie openly acknowledges that she likes her self-centered lifestyle, but desires true love over an arranged marriage to a wealthy young man. When Lottie and her maid, Dora Connors, travel from Wiltshire to America for the purpose of Lottie meeting Conrad, Lottie convinces Dora to swap places with her. Lottie will go to Dora's distant family relation and Dora will masquerade as Charlotte Gleason. But the plan does not go as smoothly as Lottie anticipated and soon Lottie is destitute with no job and no family. All of the sudden, marrying Conrad Tremaine and all of his money does not sound like such a bad idea. But what about Dora? Does she truly love Conrad Tremaine? What will become of her and Conrad if her true identity is revealed?

Overall, Masquerade was an entertaining book to read. The plot moved at a good pace and some of the twists were pleasantly unexpected. The depictions about the lives of the immigrants and the poor class of people were intriguing and seemed realistic. However, I did not like the character of Lottie Gleason from beginning to end. I suppose that in the beginning, she is not meant to be likeable, but even as she went through her change of heart, I still did not like her. As she was one of the main two characters, this meant that a substantial amount of the book was about her. On the other hand, Dora, Conrad, Sven, Dr. Greenfield and the Scarpellis were very likeable and entertaining. This is, of course, a personal preference about characters. I would not discourage anyone from buying the book based on this, but I would suggest renting it from the library first.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Pearl In The Sand by Tessa Afshar

Rahab was forced into prostitution at the age of 15 to save her family. She deplores her trade, but manages to achieve financial independence and opens an inn for travelers and the occasional client. When Jericho's destruction seems imminent, she hides two Israelite spies and obtains a promise that she and her family will be spared from death. Rahab's choice to join the nation of Israel was easy to make, but hard to hold to. She faces rejection and Salmone, the man helping her family integrate into Israel, downright terrifies her. She knows what he sees – a prostitute, impure, unlovable woman. What she does not know is that miracles happen. Miracles of love, healing and reconciliation.

The story of Rahab has never been more romantic or powerful than it was while reading this book. I waited several days after reading the book to write this review. I just wanted to sit on it and think. I also went to the books of Joshua and Matthew in the Bible to read the times that Rahab was mentioned. I'm happy to say that the basis of the book seems to be right in line with Scripture. Of course, some of it is fictional. The Bible tells nothing of how Rahab and Salmone met and fell in love. However, the fictional parts were told in such a way that it was believable. The plot was well-written and filled with romance – a wonderful combination.

Pearl in the Sand is definitely a keeper. I highly recommend it and I have no doubt that I will read it again.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Moody Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

The Reluctant Entertainer by Sandy Coughlin

Many women struggle with the idea of entertaining in their own homes. Perfectionism is engrained into many of us at a young age and continues to manifest itself in our adult lives. Author Sandy Coughlin invites all women who are reluctant to invite others into their homes to experience the freedom and joy of entertaining. Hospitality does not include the idea of being perfect, spending a lot of money or having to impress others. Coughlin shows that true hospitality and entertaining is about reaching out to those around us and opening ourselves to them. The Reluctant Entertainer also includes recipes, practical advice and tips to save money.

I appreciated The Reluctant Entertainer because I am a very reluctant entertainer. My husband's parents visit about twice a year and occasionally I will have a girlfriend over to hang out. I would never invite someone who I don't know well over for dinner. Coughlin spends a lot of time in the book talking about perfectionism and for good reason. Perfectionism is rooted in fear and probably a tremendous factor in the reluctance of many would-be entertainers. I appreciated how she also gave ideas about hospitality and entertaining outside of just inviting people into my house. Personally, I think the idea of taking a meal to someone is a lot more appealing then having guests over. At least it's a good place to start.

This book would make a great housewarming or wedding gift.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishing as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Really Woolly Bible Stories

Take a journey with your child through some of the Bible's most well-known stories. Read about Noah, Abraham, Daniel, Jonah, Jesus and others. Each story demonstrates God's great love and power as the Good Shepherd.

Really Woolly Bible Stories is appropriate for children up to the age of 8. (Approximately) Younger children who can not read will enjoy the illustrations while the older children will enjoy reading the book. The book features a hard cover and thick pages that seem like they would be durable. I liked how each story was followed by a little notation telling where the story could be found in the Bible. I think this would be helpful if you were reading it to a child and you wanted to tell the child more. Each story is presented briefly and obviously can not cover every facet. However, by giving the reference, it gives an opening for parent and child to study more about a particular story if they want to.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from BookSneeze as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

One More Exciting Contest - ends 10/17.

Sarah Sundin presents The Movies and Memories Giveaway in honor of book 2 in the Wings of Glory series. A Memory Between Us is available for purchase wherever fine books are sold. From the English countryside to the perilous skies over France, A Memory Between Us takes you on a journey through love, forgiveness, and sacrifice.






To celebrate Sarah is giving one lucky winner A Movie and Memory Prize Package! One grand prize winner will receive:


* Make-your-own-photo book from Mypublisher.com (Capture your own Memories)
* Netflix Subscription (New or Nostalgic Movies delivered right to your house)
* Starbucks gift card (To keep your engine revvin’)
*Gourmet chocolate (A favorite in the 1940’s and now)
* British specialty teas in carved wooden box (Timeless tradition)
* Miniature model of a B-17 Flying Fortress bomber & C-47 cargo plane (Everyone needs a few toy planes)
*Big Band music CD (Break out your dancing shoes)
* WWII authentic poster playing cards (Cards – a perfect game for two)
* Keep Calm and Carry On (Uplifting sayings WWII, a boost for troubled times)

To enter simple click on the icons below (contest runs 9/27 - 10/17!)

Contest time - ends 10/27!

Suzanne Woods Fisher is thrilled to announce the release of The Waiting, book two in The Lancaster Secrets Collection. In The Waiting Jorie finds herself caught be two loves and two lives in this compelling page turner about complex people living the simple life.

A must read!

Visit the blog tour and find out what the reviewers are saying!
Learn more about Suzanne and her books at http://www.suzannewoodsfisher.com/!

The Waiting is the next stand alone story in The Lancaster Secrets Collection and follows in the footsteps of the best-selling, The Choice. The Waiting is in stores now and to celebrate Suzanne is hosting The Waiting KINDLE Giveaway.

One Grand Prize winner will receive a Kindle preloaded with Suzanne Woods Fisher titles and a Amazon.com gift certificate! The Prize Pack (valued at over $185.00) includes:

* A brand new KINDLE, Free 3G, 6", Latest Generation

* The Choice by Suzanne Woods Fisher

* The Waiting by Suzanne Woods Fisher
* A $15 dollar Amazon.com Gift Certificate

To enter, simply click on the icons below to fill out the entry form, then tell 5 or more friends about the contest. Oh, and enter soon! Winner will be announced on October 28th at Suzanne's Lancaster Secrets Book Club Party.

Join Suzanne for the Lancaster Secrets Book Club Party on October 28th! She’ll be announcing the winner of the The Waiting KINDLE Giveaway, hosting a book club discussion of The Waiting and The Choice, and giving away copies of both books and HEAPs of readerly prizes! Be sure to join us on Thursday, October 28th at 5:00 PM PST (6:00 MST, 7:00 CST & 8 EST) at Suzanne’s Author Page. 

Pursuit of Justice by DiAnn Mills

God has a good purpose for everything that happens to those who love him. Or does He? Carr Sullivan is starting to wonder. Three men have turned up dead on his property and he is the prime suspect. The FBI has sent in Special Agent Bella Jordan to investigate Carr, the murders and the possible link to the Spider Rock Treasure hidden in West Texas. Agent Jordan is determined, smart and prides herself on her discernment. She spent the first 15 years of her life in the Runnels County area of West Texas and is thrilled to be the investigation's lead agent. However, when Agent Jordan's past, including the reason she left the area, emerges, she realizes that she can no longer run from the past if she ever wants to embrace the future. Revisiting the past may lead her to the truth, the Spider Rock Treasure and true love – if the killer doesn't get to her first.

Pursuit of Justice by DiAnn Mills is a fast-paced, adventure with high stakes. Both Carr and Bella are grasping for a new, beautiful future while constantly eluding death. The plot consists of mystery, adventure, romance and spirituality. These elements combine to create a story that will keep drawing the reader back until the end. I enjoyed reading this book and I liked the fact that the author wrapped up the loose ends and mysteries. I've read books where the reader is just left to wonder about some things and I much prefer this style.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Tyndale Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Walker's Wedding by Lori Copeland

Sarah Livingston wants nothing more than to marry, take care of her husband and have children. No one seems to understand her urgent need for these things. When she happens upon the chance to switch places with an unhappy mail-order bride, she seizes the opportunity. All she knows of Walker McKay is that he was recently injured and wants a wife only so he can produce an heir. Sarah is okay with that. Without too much thought of the future, Sarah travels to Wyoming where she marries Walker McKay and enthusiastically embraces her new life at Spring Grass. Unfortunately, she might not have told the full truth to Walker McKay before she married him. He already distrusts women and when her deception is made known, the future suddenly becomes much more unsure. Will the combination of present and past wounds keep Walker and Sarah apart forever?

I think I smiled from the first chapter of Walker's Wedding to the last. Lori Copeland uses the dialogue and actions of her characters to create humor that amuses the reader and enhances the situations of the characters. I laughed out loud when I read S.H.'s statement in the fifth paragraph of the book. “Yer pa would sit up in his grave and spit if he knew how you were avoiding the altar.” I've heard of people rolling over in their graves, but never sitting up and spitting. That's just an example of some of the amusing dialogue that Copeland uses masterfully. I recommend this book to anyone who loves historical romances.

German Enchantment

German Enchantment is a collection of four romantic novellas: Where Angels Camp, Nuremburg Angel, Dearest Enemy and Once a Stranger. Each novella features some sort of attachment to the enchanting German castle of Engelturm.

Where Angels Camp was the first novella in the book and the earliest in time period. A knight and a lady meet, but the lady's family has an allegiance and she is to be a form of payment. The story is short and the romance is sweet, but I felt the characters were underdeveloped. I suppose this is to be somewhat expected as it is a short novella.

In Nuremberg Angel, Comfort, as her name implies, offers comfort to a Hessian soldier who her family is forced to provide housing for. Her own sentiments on the war lean toward the Patriots, yet, she still finds kindness in her heart to offer care to this unwanted man.

In Dearest Enemy, war and fear surrounds Brigetta Linder's life. When she discovers a wounded enemy soldier, she is understandably afraid. However, fear eventually succumbs to her guilt of leaving him to die. What follows is the story of her nursing him back to health and the predictable romance that blossoms. This was my favorite of the four novellas.

In Once A Stranger, Madeline Johns is beautiful, wealthy and enjoys traveling. Meeting Jacob Bruckner was not part of her planned excursion, but when attraction takes hold and Madeline is introduced to a very important part of his life, she finds it harder to leave than she ever thought it would be. There is an very adorable element involving children in this story that I particularly enjoyed.

Overall, German Enchantment is enjoyable if you are looking to read something light and romantic. The stories are pretty predictable, but that is probably the reason that people buy this type of book. I would recommend renting from the library before you buy.

Within My Heart by Tamera Alexander

Rachel Boyd's husband died two years ago, and ever since then, life has been a struggle. Her love for her late husband has not diminished, but reality has taken its toll. The dream of owning a ranch begins to be far less appealing without him and raising two boys alone is quite difficult. She is not interested in remarrying for any reason other than love - even if it might make things easier financially. But at the same time, she is not interested in falling in love. The possibility of losing another beloved spouse is terrifying to her. Doctor Rand Brookston has few fears of his own and happens to be sweet on Rachel. His profession as well as her fear help her to keep him at a distance, but when circumstances draw them together, both discover they must confront their fears. Lives are at stake.

Within My Heart is a romance. But ultimately, it is the story of characters finding courage to do things for the sake of love despite their fears. As I read the story, I was reminded of the verse that says: “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.” (I John 4:18, KJV) I enjoyed the plot and the length of this book. At one part it seemed like things were coming to an ending and I thought, 'There's still a third of the book left. I hope it doesn't drag!' Fortunately, there was a twist or two and the book did not drag for me at all. This is one book I definitely plan on keeping.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."