What Am I Looking Forward To?

Every week Crazy-for-Books hosts the Book Blogger Hop. Participants answer a question and then visit other blogs of fellow participants. This week's question is:

"Summer is coming quickly - what 2011 summer release are you are most looking forward to?"

My answer: I probably should be ashamed to say this, but I don't know very many books that are coming out this summer.  I am looking forward to A Heart Divided by Kathleen Morgan and Fairer Than Morning by Rosslyn Elliott.  I think Fairer Than Morning may already be out, though.

What about you?

Steppin' Into the Good Life by Tia McCollors

Sheila Rushmore just wants to live the good life. When her “six-foot, six-pack, six-figure man” dumps her for his ex-wife, Sheila is devastated. Clearly, he is not coming back and Sheila makes one last ditch effort to find closure for that part of her life. Her efforts are disastrous on the surface, but in the midst of the humiliation, Sheila finds God and her life slowly begins to change. However, things get worse before they get better. While learning about a God that satisfies her far more than any fancy shoes could, Sheila finds herself unemployed, single, almost homeless, and broke. Having God is wonderful, but Sheila still longs for that sweet place called the good life. When family issues arise and temptations of the past reappear, will Sheila hold to her faith in God? Will she ever find the elusive good life?

I loved reading Steppin' Into the Good Life by Tia McCollors. The narrator (Sheila) is real, witty, and engaging. This book will definitely appeal to people who enjoy fashion. Though the plot is completely different, it reminded me slightly of Confessions of a Shopoholic just because of some of the fashion references. I admire authors who can create catchy ways to convey information. McCollors does that repeatedly, but not repetitiously, throughout the novel.

The spiritual lesson behind the plot was effective and timely. Too often people are disappointed after becoming a Christian because they have the notion that Christians don't have problems. Contrary to that belief is the reality that having God in one's life doesn't mean everything is going to be rosy. Sometimes life is hard, but God is always good whether or not we are living the so-called good life.

Steppin' Into the Good Life is the second novel in this series. I have not read the first, Last Woman Standing, but I certainly intend to. I didn't feel like I was missing any information as I read the book. In fact, I didn't know it was the second novel in the series until I got to the end and saw the blurb for Last Woman Standing. I suspect there will be at least one more novel in this series. While the ending was satisfying to read, there were a few situations/relationships left open that could definitely be addressed in a third novel.

Click here to listen to Tia McCollors speak about Steppin' Into the Good Life.

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."

$.38 Buys Two Cake Mixes & Two Frostings

I would like to share a great deal that I got from my local Publix on Wednesday.  Two Duncan Hines Cake Mixes and two Duncan Hines Frostings for $.38.  Yes, that is $.38 for all four items.  I am by no means an "extreme couponer." However, this was such a great deal that I just have to share.

Here's how I did it:

The cake mixes were $1.99 each, but they were on sale BOGO. The frostings were on sale for 1.29 each (normally 1.67).  I got the one cake mix free automatically, but I had a manufacturer's coupon to get a free cake mix if I bought two frostings.  So, that gave me my second cake mix for free. Then, I had four Publix store coupons worth $.55 each. My Publix allowed me to use one for each time.  So, the $2.20 worth of Publix store coupons all went towards the price of the frostings which was $2.58.  That left me paying $.38 for all four items.  Awesome!

Today's Faithful Blogging Prompt

Every so often Courtney at Faithful Bloggers likes to nudge the Faithful Bloggers Community with a Blogging Prompt. It is simply an idea for a blogger to create a post about.

This week's question is: What version of the Bible do you read and why?

My answer:  Mostly I read the King James Version (KJV).  However, from time to time I use other versions, especially if I'm having a hard time understanding a passage.  One of the main reasons that I stick to the KJV is that I love to read the book of Psalms. That particular book is filled with prayers, songs, and poetry. The KJV has such a lovely, unique flow that I think some of the other versions lack.  I like reading historical poetry whether it's religious or not. So, I think my enjoyment of the KJV stems from that as well.

What about you?

Book Blogger Hop Time!

Every week Crazy-for-Books hosts the Book Blogger Hop. Participants answer a question and then visit other blogs of fellow participants. This week's question is:

"If you find a book you love, do you hunt down other books by the same author?"

My answer: I absolutely hunt down other books by the same author!  I recently did this with Rachel Hauck's books. I read Dining with Joy and loved it. Then I asked my husband to buy me the other two books in the series, Love Starts with Elle and Sweet Caroline, for Christmas.

What about you?

A Cowboy's Touch by Denise Hunter

Investigative reporter Abigail Jones has been the TruthSeeker for years. Reluctantly, she heads to Moose Creek, Montana for the summer vacation ordered by her boss (aka her mom) and a visit with her Aunt Lucy. Coincidences and circumstances lead her to accept a position as nanny to Maddy, Wade Ryan's daughter. Wade's good looks and a few innocent comments by Abigail's aunt lead her to discover that Wade Ryan was a rodeo heartthrob who disappeared after his wife mysteriously died years ago. He's still hiding and Abigail is determined to get the scoop. What she doesn't expect is that she will have to open her own heart to be able to delve into Wade's and get the story. As feelings begin to grow, Abigail is torn between her emotions and her desire to save the struggling newspaper she works for. Will the secrets between Abigail and Wade ever be completely revealed? Can their growing affection blossom into love? Or will their hidden secrets betray them both?

A Cowboy's Touch is the first book I've read by Denise Hunter and I would definitely like to read more of her books. I did not care for the name of the book at first. However, as I read through the book, it became apparent why the author chose the name. A Cowboy's Touch couples engaging characters with a strong spiritual lesson about guilt to create a reading experience that entertains and encourages. The plot was somewhat predictable, but I appreciate that the author added in some unique situations and character traits. I will definitely read this book again in the future.

Click here to read an excerpt from A Cowboy's Touch.



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from The B & B Media Group. 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."

Covergirl's New Natureluxe Products

I am not a heavy makeup user. Generally, I use it to conceal flaws or for special occasions. I confess that I started using one brand of cosmetic products (not Covergirl) as a teen and never really switched to anything else. I didn't use much makeup, liked what I had used in the past, and saw no reason to switch. That being said, I recently enjoyed two products from Covergirl's natureluxe cosmetics line that have given me a reason to switch from the old brand.

Thanks to the lovely people over at BzzAgent, I was able to receive a sample of Covergirl natureluxe liquid silk foundation, number 310. This particular foundation was SPF 10 and I liked that. I live in Florida and am fair skinned, so I can use all the help I can get to protect my skin from the sun. As for application and coverage, I found it pretty standard, but enjoyable to use. I am pleased to say that it actually smelled nice. Certain other products by other companies have a smell that is not necessarily offensive, not nice either.

I was really impressed by the natureluxe lip gloss balm, number 215, that I received. When I first looked at it, I thought it was lipstick. I wear lipstick like once a year, so I was kinda disappointed, but decided to try it anyway. I was pleasantly surprised and took another look at the container. Indeed, it wasn't lipstick. It was “gloss balm.” The product produces the appearance of lip gloss, but feels like a lip balm. The product kept my lips moist for hours and had a spf 15 rating. The color faded much quicker than the moisture, but I still enjoyed the product. I actually prefer to just have my natural lip color anyway.

Covergirl has given me a reason to switch from my old brand. Although I received this product as a sample, I would be willing to pay money for it.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a product sample, coupon, collateral or other special premium from BzzAgent. 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."

Max on Life by Max Lucado

Whether we admit it or not, we all have questions. There are situations that we don't understand and questions we lack definitive answers for. Those gray areas can be challenging to consider. What if we never find the answers we are searching for? Or worse... What if we can't live with the answers that we find? It takes courage to face the hard issues of life and kind wisdom from a friend can help us along the way. In Max On Life, Pastor Max Lucado responds with wisdom to all kinds of questions, including the hard ones. Lucado uses Scripture and poignant illustrations to guide the reader into a deeper understanding and fuller peace about who God is and how to relate to him. Lucado doesn't have answers for every situation in life, but he does point the reader to the One who holds all of the answers.

Max on Life is the fourth book I've read by Max Lucado and I always have the same impression when I read his books. Lucado's tone of writing is like have a conversation with a close friend. He is gentle with the reader, but firm about his beliefs. Overall, I feel that the doctrines/beliefs in Max on Life line up with the Bible. There were a few things here and there that I wasn't quite convinced about. I appreciated that almost every question and answer entry had Scripture in it. I find the use of Scripture highly important to the credibility of any devotional book. I used Max on Life to supplement my daily Bible readings. Most of the 172 entries are one page or less. Some are two. Each is short, yet powerful. The flexibility of the book lends itself to convenience. One can use it to supplement Bible reading, to fill a few moments of the day, or to read before going to bed.

The most wonderful thing about Max on Life is that I believe that someone could read this book and get saved. The book's layout is perfect. It starts off with some basic questions about God and Christianity, progresses into the message of salvation, and then addresses issues of the Christian life.

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."

Amazing Love by Corrie ten Boom

As youth, Corrie ten Boom and her sister suffered imprisonment in a Nazi concentration camp. Treated harshly, her sister escaped the concentration camp by way of the grave. Corrie, however, was released and eventually recovered from the traumatic experience. In Amazing Love, Corrie recounts twenty-seven of her life experiences. Rather than remain bruised and scarred, Corrie gave her pain to God. In return, she received personal healing and opportunities to share the gift of healing with others. Corrie uses her trials and triumphs to encourage Christians from all walks of life.

Listening to Amazing Love was entertaining and encouraging. The stories challenged me spiritually while distracting me from the tediousness of laundry. I found listening to this audio book while doing chores quite enjoyable and I would definitely do it again.

Some of my favorite things in Amazing Love were: The discussions about the power of prayer and the different forms of prayer as well as the recurring theme of victorious living through Christ. Corrie used stories of personal victories in her own life to demonstrate her beliefs. One powerful statement was: “The promises of God are greater than the realities of our problems.” What a thought. I also enjoyed “The Chocolate Sermon.” I won't spoil it by explaining too much. However, the simple truth illustrated in that particular story has the potential to change lives. It doesn't hurt that I happen to love chocolate and can relate to the women in the story. I would not consider this to be a devotional, but it is spiritual uplifting.

Regarding the narration, the narrator's voice matched what I imagine the author's voice to sound like. It was distinguished with an interesting lilt. Vocal intonations, such as loudness, excitement and sadness, were utilized appropriately.

Amazing Love is available from christianaudio, please click here to visit their website.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this audiobook free from Christianaudio as part of their 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."

Double Shot by Erynn Mangum

Maya Davis has a lot on her mind lately. Her engagement to Jack was supposed to be a wonderful prelude to marital bliss. However, planning a wedding is stressful and a new job opportunity for Jack is threatening their unity. On top of that, Maya has to deal with a busy job, premarital counseling, and the emotional roller coaster that her nephew's premature birth put her on. Will she be able to completely trust God before her life completely unravels?

Double Shot by Erynn Mangum is an enjoyable read geared toward teens and twenty-somethings. Despite all the issues Maya has, the book feels light and playful. On one hand, this is good because it makes the book a fun and easy read. On the other hand, Double Shot has some important spiritual lessons that get a little lost in the lightness of the book. I think if the book was somehow made to be more poignant, it would be more effective.

The entire time I was reading Double Shot I kept thinking that if a movie was ever made of it, Anne Hathaway should play Maya. She reminded me so much of Anne's character, Mia, in The Princess Diaries. Their names are even sound similar! (Double Shot's plot is nothing like The Princess Diaries.)

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress 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."

That's When I Talk to God by Dan & Ali Morrow

When should I talk to God? Can I only talk to him at bedtime or when I am at church? Does Mommy have to be with me?

Such questions can easily go unspoken or unaddressed. However, teaching a child to pray is one of the most important spiritual duties of a parent. That's When I Talk to God by Dan and Ali Marrow is an entertaining tool that a parent can use to teach a child that is is always appropriate to talk to God. As the little girl journeys through her day, she finds multiple opportunities to speak to God. A visit with a friend, a fear of heights, and an act of disobedience are a few examples of her encounters. The little girl also discovers that God speaks to her daily through the Bible, her conscience, and other people.

Illustrated children's books can sometimes capture a child's attention in ways that regular conversation can not. That's When I Talk to God teaches an important lesson by appealing to the mind and the sense of sight. I particularly liked how the authors made a point to mention that God not only hears, but also communicates with children. The book includes verses about prayer and The Lord's Prayer at the end. These could be used for further discussion and learning. I can confidently recommend this book to any parent looking for a book to help teach important lessons on prayer.

That's When I Talk to God is recommended for children between 4 and 8 years of age. I thought the illustrations were beautiful and engaging. However, I suspect that girls may reread this book more than boys. The main character is a girl and many of the illustrations use so-called “girly” colors like pink and purple.






Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from The B & B Media Group, Inc. 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."

A Kiss for Cade by Lori Copeland

Cade Kolby has spent years as a bounty hunter and plans to spend the rest of his life doing the same. Afterall, bounty hunters can't exactly retire - too many enemies looking for revenge. When his sister, Addy, dies and leaves behind four children, her last directive is that Cade should decide who will care for her children. Addy's best friend, Zoe, immediately takes custody of the children while they await Cade's return to Winterborn. Zoe loves the children as her own and intends to convince Cade that she should have custody. She's determined to be polite and professional despite her tumultuous past with Cade. Unfortunately for Zoe, sparks fly immediately upon Cade's arrival. Will Zoe and Cade be able to move beyond their past? And even if they could, would Cade ever be able to provide a safe and stable environment for her and the children?

A Kiss for Cade by Lori Wick was definitely an entertaining read. The chemistry between Cade and Zoe was excellent. My only complaint was that at one point, which I won't exactly specify because it would be a spoiler, there was plot twist that seemed cheesy. Had that part not seemed so cheesy, it might have been humorous. Overall, A Kiss for Cade is enjoyable and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical romances.

Click here to read an excerpt from A Kiss for Cade.