A Deeper Love

My Review:

You are in for a great time as you read this book. You will enjoy the sights and sounds of this amazing paradise island that author, Heidi Gray McGill, has written about. Alicia, better known as Algae, has a scuba diving business that she runs with her business partner, Tug. I enjoyed the story that has a beautiful faith message, interesting characters who feel like family, a generous and compassionate male main character, and the love story of Alicia and Dan that is sure to warm your heart. I received a complimentary copy of the book the Celebrate Lit. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.

God is Calling you to be Fearless and to Fear Less

 

About the Book

Book: FearLESS: God is calling you to be fearless and to FearLESS

Authors: Marta E Greenman and Maureen H Maldonado

Genre: Christian Devotional

Release Date: April, 2023

What makes you afraid? Does your fear keep you from obeying God or living a free life in Christ?

Explore God’s remedies for overcoming your fears in this thirty-day devotional that gives an in-depth scriptural look at facing your fears and God’s ways of living a life free from fear.

LEARN:

• How the reverential fear of the Lord erases earthly fears and gives boldness to lead a victorious life in Christ.
• The difference between healthy fear and unhealthy fear.
• The individual Hebrew and Greek meanings of fear in Scripture.
• How to apply God’s strategies for living a life free of fear.

Old Testament and New Testament accounts of fears faced and overcome are interspersed with personal stories and examples from everyday living from two veteran Bible teachers. Thoughtful reflection questions provide a jumping-off point for personal or group study.

Click here to get your copy!

 My Review: 

I have never read a devotional that has co-authors, but I liked that Marta Greenman and Maureen Maldonado brought their own perspective and stories into the book. It has thirty days of a short devotion and one reflection page with three questions. You can consider and write your answer in the space provided if you wish.

The topic of being fearless and trusting God I think is one that everyone can study. It's good to be reminded that God tells us not to fear and that He will be with us no matter what we face.

I was given an advanced copy of the book through Celebrate Lit. A positive review was not required, and all opinions are my own.

About the Authors

Marta left corporate America in 1998 to become a staff missionary with a church-planting organization known today as e3Partners. She led American churches in planting new ones with international church partners. During this period, Marta spent much of her time in the field on evangelism and discipleship, traveling to Colombia, Mexico, Moldova, Peru, Romania, Ukraine, Venezuela, and Zimbabwe. She also had the privilege of leading women’s conferences in biblical training.

Marta began teaching inductive Bible studies in 1997 at her home church, where she taught faithfully for fifteen years. Debbie Stuart, the former women’s ministry director, said, “Marta Greenman is a master teacher, weaving biblical principles, personal stories, and clear application with every lesson. She walks in truth, loves the Word, and has dedicated her life to teaching that truth to women.”

After seven years on the mission field in Romania, Marta began to write Bible study curriculum. Her first study, Bound to Be Free, was published in 2011. Marta founded Words of Grace & Truth in May 2011, a ministry devoted to teaching God’s Word to the nations and teaching others to do the same, using curriculum God birthed through her teaching ministry. Since then, Leaders, Nations, and God and ACTs420NOW have been published. Her fourth book is a thirty-day devotional entitled FearLESS, co-authored with Maureen H.  Maldonado. LoveMORE: Your 30-Day Devotional to learn to love like Jesus is also co-authored with Maureen H. Maldonado. She continues to write additional biblically-based materials.

Marta’s latest ministry venture is GraceAndTruthRadio.World (GTRW), a global radio station outreach with God’s message of grace and truth. Her program Under God, with co-host Maureen Maldonado, airs on GTRW Mondays at 3:30 p.m. CST. Marta’s passion, regardless of the nation where she may be, is teaching God’s Word and equipping others to teach. She is a gifted teacher, speaker, and expositor of God’s Word. Marta lives in the Dallas–Fort Worth area of Texas with her husband of almost thirty years.

Maureen is the second of seven children. Growing up in a home where worldly wealth was a foreign concept, she always felt treasured by her parents and knew she was rich in love. Maureen married young and raised two amazing daughters. Her grandchildren are a blessing beyond anything she could imagine. Recently, she was able to add a granddaughter-in-love who adds joy

to the mix.

Maureen has a master’s degree in education from California State University and spent her career as a teacher, vice-principal, and principal in elementary education. Maureen never planned to leave California or the education system, but God had other plans. After Maureen’s husband was transferred to Arizona in 2006 and then to Texas in 2011, she spent several years teaching Just Moved, a Christian-based ministry program developed by Susan Miller for women who are moving home due to life changes (https://justmoved.org). God used her teaching education and experience as a training ground to begin teaching for Him. Involved in Bible studies in California, Arizona, and Texas, Maureen grew exponentially in her faith, love of God, and His Word. The culmination of these experiences led her to co-host the radio program Under God on GraceAndTruthRadio.World, where God’s Word is taught to the nations. Maureen’s first book FearLESS was co-authored with Marta E. Greenman. LoveMORE is Maureen’s second book, also co-authored with Marta.

Today Maureen is using her new-to-her method of studying the Bible and her long-applied teaching methods to teach the next generation of believers. Her prayer is for others to gain as much insight into God’s transformational Word as she has received. She describes it as “opening the shades and letting in all the sunlight on a gloomy day.” Maureen feels honored and humbled to be a part of Words of Grace & Truth and asks others to join in prayer for this needed ministry and for the church, our country, and our world. Maureen and her husband, Raymond, reside in Texas, where they have transplanted almost their entire family from California.

 More from Marta

For years I wanted to write a devotional on Fear. God’s Word teaches us to Fear NOT! Since my original thought was a 365 Day devotional, I knew I needed at least one writing partner to accomplish the devotional in a reasonable time frame. Years would come and go, I would ask people, but nothing ever materialized. Finally, God brought the right person, my friend, my ministry partner, my co-host of Under God radio show, and my co-author Maureen H Maldonado. A woman whom God has uniquely designed to be my co-laborer in the Lord. Of course, God’s timing was perfect, FearLESS was published at a time when the world was in a fearful place, but God wanted and wants His children to be FearLESS.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, October 27

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, October 28

Christina’s Corner, October 29

Book Looks by Lisa, October 30

Artistic Nobody, October 31 (Author Interview)

Life on Chickadee Lane, October 31

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 1

Guild Master, November 2 (Author Interview)

Its Mama Safe, November 2

Texas Book-aholic, November 3

Lily’s Book Reviews, November 4

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 5

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 6

Cover Lover Book Review, November 7

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 8

Mary Hake, November 9

Giveaway

To celebrate their tour, Marta and Maureen are giving away the grand prize of a $50 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/28975/fearless-celebration-tour-giveaway

Jane and the Final Mystery

 

About the Book: 

March 1817: As winter turns to spring, Jane Austen’s health is in slow decline, and threatens to cease progress on her latest manuscript. But when her nephew Edward brings chilling news of a death at his former school, Winchester College, not even her debilitating ailment can keep Jane from seeking out the truth. Arthur Prendergast, a senior pupil at the prestigious all-boys’ boarding school, has been found dead in a culvert near the schoolgrounds—and in the pocket of his drenched waistcoat is an incriminating note penned by the young William Heathcote, the son of Jane’s dear friend Elizabeth. Winchester College is a world unto itself, with its own language and rites of passage, cruel hazing and dangerous pranks. Can Jane clear William’s name before her illness gets the better of her?
 
Over the course of fourteen previous novels in the critically acclaimed Being a Jane Austen Mystery series, Stephanie Barron has won the hearts of thousands of fans—crime fiction aficionados and Janeites alike—with her tricky plotting and breathtaking evocation of Austen’s voice. Now, she brings Jane’s final season—and final murder investigation—to brilliant, poignant life in this unforgettable conclusion.

My Review: 

Stephanie Barron’s writing from Jane Austen’s perspective was well done. The manner in which the characters spoke make you feel like you are an integral part of the story. I enjoyed reading the footnotes that the author provided. It helped to give details about Jane Austen’s real life and was fascinating.

. I enjoyed the mystery, but I felt the story was a bit too long. If you enjoy mysteries, historical fiction, or are an Austen fan you’ll like reading this story. This was the first book I have read in the series. It can be read as a standalone since I didn’t feel that I had missed any details that were connected to this case. 

I received a copy of the book through Austenprose as well as NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Skye Fall

About the Book: 

Isla Montjoy has it all, a new career in nursing and a police officer boyfriend she adores―until she stumbles across proof of her boyfriend’s corruption. Determined to protect his secrets, he attacks her and leaves her for dead. But against all odds, she lives. On the run for two years, Isla’s life is far from assured as her would-be murderer doggedly tracks her across the UK, intent on silencing her forever.

On a climbing trip in the Scottish Highlands, Ben Pressley-Coombes encounters Isla, a beautiful woman who promptly pepper sprays him without warning or reason. After that rough start, Ben hopes never to lay eyes on her again―but fate has other ideas. Forced into an uneasy association that transforms into a deep-seated romance, the pair soon faces a deadly Isla’s relentless pursuer has discovered her hiding place. If she is to survive, she and Ben must outmaneuver the dirty cop and his treacherous plot to snare her.

My Review: 

Isla Montjoy has had to hide herself and her secrets from a man who will stop at nothing to get her back. She has finally been able to settle in an obscure town in Scotland where she hopes to be invisible and avoid detection.

Ben Pressley-Coombes and his father end up lost in the same place where Isla is living and the funny incident when he meets her is one (un)cute meet I will never forget. Ben and Isla are great together. Ben needs to lighten up and realize he can’t take everyone’s burdens on himself. Isa helps him to see that. Ben is a wonderful confidant and helps Isla see she can trust again.

The likable characters, the exciting plot, the suspenseful events, and the faith of the characters that is subtly woven throughout the book make this a five star read. I recommend you read this and the other books in the Pressley-Coombes Romantic Suspense series.

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher through NetGalley. A positive review was not expected. All opinions are my own.

Into the Fire

 About the Book: 

As a former smokejumper, arson investigator Bri Tucker knows her way around fires. But after a mysterious blaze takes the life of a former colleague, Bri inherits a curious puzzle from him that raises questions about several fiery deaths. Someone, however, doesn't want her picking up where he left off in search of answers.

When she teams up with ATF Special Agent Marc Davis to solve the puzzle, the danger escalates. But will they manage to track down the person behind the mysterious deaths before their budding romance—and maybe even their lives—go up in flames?

The bestselling and award-winning queen of romantic suspense is back with a brand-new series that is sure to get your adrenaline pumping as you burn through the pages to discover the truth.

My Review:

What at first seemed to be unrelated house fires, soon become suspicious as a well known fire investigator is found dead in his home. Arson investigator, Bri Tucker is given the case to see if she can discover how he died and if the past fires are related to one another. 

Bri is one independent, capable young lady who has a difficult time trusting men, So, when ATF Agent Marc Davis is assigned to work with her, things are a bit awkward and uncomfortable. But, Marc was extremely patient and gave her the space she needed. The relationship that developed between Bri and Marc was set at just the right pace, not too fast to make it seem rushed, and not too slow that you wonder if they will ever go on a date. 

Irene Hannon always creates a suspenseful story and one that I look forward to reading. With dual points of view, including the killer, you are drawn into the story and enjoying every nail biting scene. The next book in the series is sure to be just as great as this one. 

I was given a copy of the book through the Revell Blogger program. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Shadows at Dusk

 

About the Book: 

Detective Trevor West is determined to find the sister who went missing in Alaska over a year ago. Bush pilot Carries James is determined to track down the person who murdered her closest friend. When the two join forces and skill sets to solve these mysteries, they'll discover they are connected in ways they never imagined.

My Review: 

The opening scene of the book was quite scary as Carrie James is pushed out of a plane— with no parachute! The rest of the story unfolds to fit in the details of what happened to Carrie and why she ended up in Alaska. 

This story, like all of Ms. Goddard’s books, is well written and has many threads that connect to make a fantastic book. The combination of suspense, villains, a faith thread, and romance are what I love when I read Christian suspense stories. I highly recommend reading this second book in the Missing in Alaska series. It can be read as a standalone, but you will really enjoy reading the first book, Cold Light of Day too. 

I received this book from the author and publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own. 

Codes of Courage

About the Book:

1940: Austrian refugee Karl Lang has lost everything―his country, his home, and his family. All that is left to him is a burning ambition to see the Nazis defeated. Desperate for work and a way to help the war effort, he finds the one place that will take a refugee like him: a supply steamer traversing a deadly path past enemy U-boats.

Since their first meeting, Millie Stevens has felt an undeniable connection to Karl. As the war rages, she shares his determination to oppose the Nazis and finds work at the British codebreaking center at Bletchley Park. There she uses all her intellect and determination to break German codes and read U-boat transmissions―or risk losing the man she loves.

Rolf Denhart will do anything to defend the Fatherland, including long patrols in a cramped U-boat. But rumors from Germany leave him uneasy, forcing a choice between loyalty to his homeland, the safety of his family, and his peace of conscience.

In the midst of war, three lives are woven together to create an epic tapestry of love and loss, joy and pain, sacrifice and courage.

My Review: 

I’m not a huge fan of WWII stories due in part to the aspect of the havoc they wreak on people’s lives. Because, let’s face it, many people died and lives were forever changed. But… author A.L. Sowards is a phenomenal writer and is able to portray this moving narrative through the eyes of three characters, a couple on the Allies side, Millie and Karl, and one on the Axis side, Rolf. I loved how the lives of these three individuals are intertwined through love and self sacrifice. 

If you are interested in a story that has depth and stays with you long after you have read it, then this is just the book for you. It would be a perfect selection for a book club or a friend read. It is too good to keep to yourself and is one of those types of books you’ll want to hear what someone else experienced.

Karl and his family are introduced in Heirs of Falcon Point, but you do not need to read it in order to enjoy this book. Although, you will thoroughly enjoy that story too. :)

I received a copy of the book, and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

By the Light of the Setting Sun

About the Book: 

Alex Drake, Earl of Linsfield, has spent years ensuring his brothers’ futures. But an uneasy feeling tugs at him. His young step-sister, neglected by her father, is in need of his care and protection. After traveling to Bath, he finds her unhappy and her father resistant to his help.

Lady Elizabeth Vaughn faces a dire choice: support her family, or risk losing everything they hold dear. Time ticks relentlessly on as her father’s health declines, despite the efforts of Bath’s finest physicians. After four failed London Seasons, marriage remains an elusive salvation. The family curse is to blame, according to her aunt—it states no lady from their lineage shall marry for love. But if Elizabeth doesn’t marry, what other options are there?

An unconventional meeting between Alex and Elizabeth sparks an instant friendship. As they help each other find solutions, their hearts soon become entwined as well. Yet, when Alex is faced with the choice of saving either his step-sister or Lady Elizabeth, will their love endure this ultimate test?

Set in Regency England, By The Light Of The Setting Sun is a clean and wholesome romance and the first in a new series by author Laura Rollins. Filled with witty characters, humerous escapades, and swoony moments, this book is sure to delight.

My Review: 

 “ Blackwell Manor was properly haunted. The neighborhood had expected it to happen well before now, seeing as the house had been most perfectly suited for a ghost these two decades at least.” 

Author Laura Rollins is a new to me author and this was a fantastic introduction to her writing. She has characters who draw you into the story, not only the main characters (Elizabeth and  Alex), but also those that are secondary to create a world I didn’t want to stop reading. If this had been a mini series on TV, I would’ve binge watched all of it! 

The theme of hope was so interesting because of the way that everyone saw it in their lives. Some saw hope as something that could never be achieved, while Elizabeth said, “…you once called hope a ‘painful kind of beauty. No matter how painful gets, I am determined never to give up. This is who I am. Despite disappointment, evidence to the contrary, or even a family curse, I will always give hope a fighting chance.” This really resonated with me! 

Here are just some of the many things I loved about this story: 

the family curse and measures to end it

humor

the extended family 

a creepy, greedy character

love of family

the ghost of Blackwell Manor

the ending <3

I highly recommend this book to readers of all ages. There were so many amazing characters that I am hoping we will get to see a HEA for Aunt Margaret. I’d also love to see more of Alex’s brothers. They were perfect in helping thwart the plans of a horrible man, 

I received a copy of this book. I was not expected to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Seeking Persephone

 

About the Book: 

When Persephone Lancaster receives a marriage proposal from the ill-tempered Duke of Kielder, she refuses— and then reconsiders. The obscene sum of money he’s offering Persephone would save her family from ruin. With her characteristic optimism, she travels to the far reaches of Northumberland to wed a greatly feared stranger. Lodged deep in a thick forest infested with wild dogs, the Duke’s castle is as cold and forbidding as the Duke himself, a man with terrible scars on his body and his soul. But the Duke’s steely determination to protect his heart at all costs is challenged by his growing attachment to his lovely and gentle bride. With caring persistence, Persephone attempts to pierce the Duke’s armor and reach the man beneath. Yet he cannot tolerate such exposure, and his repeated rejections take their toll. But when grave danger arises, the Duke realizes he must face the risk of revealing his true feelings or lose the woman he cannot live without.

My Review: 

What a beautiful story of a very wounded and bitter man whose transformation is remarkable due to the love of a friend and a persistent woman who refuses to give up on him. I loved how author Sarah Eden used the story of the Greek myth of Persephone and Hades to create her story. Love truly conquers all! 

I highly recommend reading this first book in the Lancaster family series. Readers of all ages will love the humor, the people, and the love story of Adam and Persephone.

Good news! Seeking Persephone is going to be made into a movie! I am very excited to see it come to life. There is a Kickstarter program that is occurring now to raise funds for it. 

The Secrets Beneath

 

About the Book: 

Anna Lakeman has spent her life working alongside her paleontologist father, drawing intricate sketches at every dig. When they find dinosaur bones near their home in Wyoming Territory, they're swiftly caught up in the era known as the Bone Wars. But when her father becomes sick and an old beau, Joshua Ziegler, returns for the summer, Anna's world is upended and the practical, orderly life she has made for herself shatters.

Medical student Joshua Ziegler left his hometown to forget the one woman he truly loved and deeply hurt--Anna Lakeman. But when he returns, time hasn't erased the feelings they've always had for each other. When Joshua's nephew goes missing--just like his sister did years ago--and Anna's job is threatened, tensions mount and dangerous secrets are unburied. How can they keep the perils of the past from threatening their renewed affection?

My Review:

Wow, I wasn’t expecting this story to be suspenseful, but it was! Anna Lakeman has worked with her father for years on his dinosaur digs, always hoping to be a paleontologist. Her determination, grit, and love for the profession keeps her going despite everyone prejudice.

Joshua Ziegler and Anna were at one time going to get married, but when an unresolved argument occurs and years go by, Anna has given up hope that they will ever reconcile. Their rocky relationship at times wanted me to say, “Stop and listen to what they are saying instead of making assumptions.” I was very happy when they began to do that, which helped them work through their difficulties. 

Julian Walker who was a classmate and neighbor on whose property the dinosaur site was located, was a complex man. He was mysterious, lonely, and I felt sorry for him at times. I love the twist that he provides to the story!

If you enjoy books from the romantic suspense genre and authors such as Jaime Jo Wright, you will want to read this book. This is the first in the Treasures of the Earth Book and I am looking forward to reading the other two that are to come. 

I received a complimentary copy of the book through Austenprose Book Tours and NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.