The Masterpiece

I have fallen in love with Francine River's novels.

So whenever I hear that she has written a new one, it's an automatic response for me to buy it. I don't even have to know what it is about, because I love the way she writes her novels. I know it will be life changing for me. I know it will also challenge me in a good way as well.

So when her latest novel, The Masterpiece arrived, I couldn't wait to carve out some time to sit back and enjoy my book, like someone would enjoy a fine wine, a decadent dessert or whatever will cause you to get excited because it is something you will look forward to.

I was not disappointed.

The story takes place between a struggling famous artist, Roman Velasco, who has to come to terms with his past before he can ever move forward in his future. To say he is a success at painting is an understatement and his paintings are always sold out for obscene amounts of money. He can't seem to find a way to manage all the time in between and has gone through so many personal assistants, the agency is down to its final candidate and if he isn't happy with this one, they are done trying to work with him.

Fortunately for Grace Moore, she needs this job and will stop at nothing to ensure she makes enough money that she can move out of the home she shares with a couple that had hoped to adopt her young son when he was born. They are still hoping she will change her mind and thus the reason for letting her stay. They understand how difficult it is for a single mother to make it in Los Angeles alone! So Grace is will to pass along a little "grace" to Roman and hopefully find a way for the two to work together. But she will also need to come to terms with her own past, and one that can apply a little grace to both of their lives.

The Masterpiece by Francine Rivers is an exceptional look into the pasts that we think define who we are today and unfortunately for some hold us back in the very areas that God wants to release us from. While Grace has the faith to work through some of her issues, there are some still holding her back. Yet at least, she begins to peel back the layers of Roman's past and help him to see that God is his only hope for a future, that is if she can reach him before his has a tragic accident that will forever change them both. Well worth all 5 out of 5 stars in this reader's opinion and now proud to add this novel to my permanent library.

For more information about The Masterpiece, Francine Rivers or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

The Masterpiece by Francine Rivers

You can find Francine Rivers on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on The Masterpiece, visit Tyndale House Publishers website. 

The One Year Daily Acts of Kindness Devotional

I fell in love the Random Acts of Kindness that first appeared in the movie Bruce Almighty, and even inspired me to spend my 49th birthday finding 49 different ways to do things for someone else instead of buying me more stuff I really don't need. And you know what, it is the only birthday I can remember over any of the other ones. I can even remember the things I did to make someone else's day instead of my own and the feeling was so amazing.

Now Tyndale House Publishers has appealed to me once again with The One Year Daily Acts of Kindness Devotional. In it readers will find themselves challenged not only by the daily Scripture reference from the Bible, but an applicable story that shows just how you can both apply the Scripture but also make someone else's day through random acts of kindness. At the conclusions of each days devotional, readers are challenged in some way to take that idea and make it their own, like Do something unexpectedly kind for a teacher, encourage someone else with your story of God's faithfulness, honor someone in your life by picking up the slack in their busy season, invite someone new to Thanksgiving this year and so many more.

Divided into daily devotionals, readers will love the ease and simplicity of being reminded it is about serving others through the daily acts we can perform to show them the love of Christ working within us. It keeps these reminders at the forefront and helps us to keep our hearts in the attitude of serving rather than being served. Each of the three authors, Kendra Roehl, Kristin Demery and Julie Fisk each take their turns at writing each daily devotional so in a sense they are sharing their own testimony and life with you as you work your way through each of the 365 days. The best part is that you don't have to wait to begin in January 1st, you can just pick up like I did right when I received my book.

I received The One Year Daily Acts of Kindness Devotional by Julie Fisk, Kendra Roehl and Kristin Demery compliments of Tyndale House Publishers. This is such a great book that I can speak more highly about, but that if you are looking at a way of making your daily life count more, looking for ways to serve others, and even ideas on incorporating daily acts of kindness into your day, than this book is perfect for you. I give this one a 5 out of 5 stars because as a busy mom, wife and more, I need something to keep my heart in the right place and this works for me.

For more information about The One Year Daily Acts of Kindness Devotional or where to pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

The One Year Daily Acts of Kindness Devotional by Julie Fisk, Kendra Roehl, and Kristin Demery

You can read more reviews of The One Year Daily Acts of Kindness Devotional by visiting Tyndale House Publisher's website. 

Just Look Up

For some busy, just trying to cross off all the items off their daily "to do" list would make them feel accomplished, but not for Lane Kelley. To say that she lives for her job would simply be an understatement. She lives and breathes her job as a potential promotion as creative director looms before her based on the success of her presentation. She knows her ability to tap into exactly what the client needs and aside from the nervousness residing within her, she knows she shouldn't be at all worried. I mean everything in her career has lead up to this one pivotal moment in her life, so the fact she spent every waking moment practicing her speech and presentation should count for something. It has all lead up to this moment to sell her idea to a tech saavy company known as Solar.

Just as she is about to face her fears, she is interrupted by a phone call from her assistant conveying to her, she has to take this call. Even the company head is looking her way wondering if she will pass this up for a phone call. However when Chloe tells her its from her family and she NEEDS to take that call, she wonders what could be so important that it couldn't wait for a couple of hours. Her brother Nate has been in a serious motorcycle accident and it doesn't look good. Despite her well-meaning intentions, she is told not to wait and get home right away. It is a home she walked away from years ago and despite all their attempts to lure her home and away from her job, she had never looked back. Now it seems with the only choice but to head home, she might just be giving up her promotion. Her company will give her a couple of days but they expect her back by Monday.

Lane knew one day that motorcycle would lead Nate into an accident and that is exactly what has happened. He had been out riding with his best friend Ryan Brooks, who also crashed, but he was the lucky one. Her brother remained in a coma. Lane and Brooks had grown up together and it should be no surprise that he is one of the first people to greet her at the hospital. He always seemed to be the one to protect her even when people and friends teased her about being fat, nicknaming her Pudge, but now that person no longer exists even shedding all those pounds in an effort to leave her past behind. But for Ryan, Lane has always been the one person who knew him the best and even despite their rough childhood, they shared something more than what meets the eye. Now all he has to do is convince himself that he can't share his feelings with Lane since it is only a matter of time before she heads back to her busy job in the city and once again walks out of all their lives.

I received Just Look Up by Courtney Walsh compliments of Tyndale House Publishers. In accordance with the new FTC Guidelines for blogging and endorsements, you should assume that every book reviewed here at Reviews From The Heart was provided to the reviewer by the publisher, media group or the author for free and were received, unless specified otherwise. This is such a coming of age in reverse story as Lane has to deal with her lack of self esteem and bullying when she was in school, not only from those in her class but those in her family as well. Even her heart's desire in hoping to land a husband was taken away from her and now she must do what she can to get back to work as quickly as she can or else her entire identity will be lost again, but was it ever her true self anyway? I can understand so many things from Lane's point of view from becoming so consumed by work that it fills up every ounce of time and you don't see it happening. You trade off one success to make up for past failures and I love that Ryan has never lost hope in her and teaches her that life awaits outside of work once again and that family is what you make of it. 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion.

For more information about Just Look Up, Courtney Walsh or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Just Look Up by Courtney Walsh

You can find Courtney Walsh on Facebook, to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

You can read more reviews on Just Look Up by visiting Tyndale House Publisher's website. 

A Day at the Beach - Devotional

One of the best places I love to go to gain some peace and perspective is the beach. There is something calming, mesmerizing, and relaxing watching the waves splash along the sand, the saltiness of the breeze and laughter of children. Its a place where we can let go of the stress and just let go of our daily worries. Sadly many people are landlocked and few have actually visited a real beach so these experiences are not commonly shared but often times have lakes or rivers they visit. The experience is relatively the same.

Jedd and Todd Hafer have written a wonderful devotional called A Day at the Beach with daily inspirations to help you relax, reflect and renew yourself. Each devotional carries with it a Bible verse and how we can simply change our attitudes to help reflect the peace that God can provide. So many of the best things in life are willing to wait for us. Perhaps this is God's way of telling us to embrace the anticipation rather than fight it. To surf with the tide rather than swim against it. To let the journey unfold on its own schedule so it can be savored. Good advice for the beach to road trips and for life itself. You can refresh your soul and encounter God even if there isn't an ocean in the picture.

This devotional is filled with a collection of personal accounts, intriguing beach trivia, and even a fable or two. It is geared to help your reading to be as refreshing as a day at the beach, offering soothing waters for your mind and sunshine for your soul. There are devotionals reminding us about the importance of being unplugged, which seems to be common place, that we simply forget about the things and people around us because we are caught up in social media, texting and our smart phones. People seem to use the phrase that they are simply, "too busy to find time to spend with God," but the truth is if we simply set our phones to vibrate, we can let go and find quality time in our days to get things done and enjoy those around us more and spend time with God in our devotionals or Bible reading. These are short and sweet but pack a lot of things to consider and hopefully give the reader a break for all the things that can drive us crazy.

I received A Day at the Beach by Jedd and Todd Hafer compliments of Tyndale House Publishers. In accordance with the new FTC Guidelines for blogging and endorsements, you should assume that every book reviewed here at Reviews From The Heart was provided to the reviewer by the publisher, media group or the author for free and were received, unless specified otherwise. Some of the topics include, Making the Ordinary Extraordinary, Nothing Ever Happens on "Someday," Ocean Baptism, A Sail With Attitude, The Throwaway Ritual, Uses for Sand, Thanks for Nothing and so many more. There are 70 devotions tucked inside a beautiful orange soft cover that is so cool to tuck away into your purse or beach bag. This would make the perfect graduation gift or even something to use to have a short Bible devotion the next time you are at the beach or lake. The topics are perfect for discussion to utilize ways to make our days a bit more stress-free and relaxing. I easily give this a 5 out of 5 stars and now have to find a way to get it back from my 18-year-old daughter who took it to a beach birthday party for her Christian friends.

For more information about A Day at the Beach, Jedd and Todd Hafer or where you can pick up a copy of this devotional today, please click on the links below:

A Day at the Beach by Jedd and Todd Hafer

To read more reviews on A Day at the Beach, please visit Tyndale House Publisher's website. 

Tranquility Journal and Coloring Book

Having a prayer journal is vital for me. It helps me to keep my thoughts from wandering but it also keeps track of those I pray for and what I am praying for. I can always look back and see God's faithfulness not only in answering my prayers but often times in ways I never could have imagined had these been my ways of answering them instead. It helps me keep my mind focused on the present day and not praying for healing that may never come this side of heaven, but one that will come with 100% certainty knowing God always keeps His promises to those who are faithful to Him.

I absolutely had to share my latest find with you from Tyndale House Publishers, a prayer journal and adult coloring book all in one, called Tranquility! The name is perfect because once our prayers are cast before the throne room of God, we can rest assured that He hears them. Just the name tranquility conveys a state of calmness, peacefulness, quietness and even serenity. In a hectic and busy world, just trying to achieve this can seem impossible. We all know that meditative art, like coloring, can provide a wonderful outlet for expression and relaxation to our Creator God.

Coloring, journaling our prayers and thoughts, and drawing can also provide effective tools for deepening our faith. And when we allow our minds to center on the Truth of God's Word while adding color and inner creativity, our devotional time can soar with greater dimensions. Let the experience of writing down your prayers, thoughts or ideas take you to a greater level of connection with God. Suggestions are offered in this book to further inspire you in this time of quiet reflection and prayer. Don't worry about your results but let God lead the way as you experience the tranquility that can only come from spending time with Him.

I received Tranquility: A Prayer and Reflection Coloring Journal by Living Expressions compliments of Tyndale House Publishers. In accordance with the new FTC Guidelines for blogging and endorsements, you should assume that every book reviewed here at Reviews From The Heart was provided to the reviewer by the publisher, media group or the author for free and were received, unless specified otherwise. There are so many great pictures to color and let your creativity and imagination go free with your expressions in this coloring journal coupled with Scriptures from the Bible and some suggestions about prayer for that particular day. There are pages for doing your own drawings as well as those that accompany their own illustrated prayer pages. There are even places of notes or ideas you might want to keep and reflect upon later. 110 pages full of great Biblical inspirations to make this hard cover prayer journal truly unique. I give this a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion and would make a perfect Mother's Day gift!

For more information about Tranquility: A Prayer and Reflection Color Journal, Living Expressions or where you can pick up this today, please click on the links below:

Tranquility: A Prayer and Reflection Color Journal by Living Expressions

You can find Tyndale House Publishers on Facebook to stay up to date on all their latest books and products.

The Coming Apostasy

Are we truly living in the Last Days? Is the imminent return of Jesus just around the corner? Is there a road map of sorts we can reference to see if we are and if so, how close? Many would say all the answers we need to know the signs of the end times are right inside the Bible. They are as clear as looking into the sky and knowing if rain is coming or if it will be a sunny day. We know as people living in this world, things are getting worse. They are far worse than they were 50 years ago or even 10 years ago and it would benefit us all to know what is coming next and just how close to the end we truly are.

In the book, The Coming Apostasy by Mark Hitchcock and Jeff Kinley, they both take us alongside the relevant events that the Bible predicts with 100% accuracy of what is happening now, what is coming and where we stand currently in light of End Times Prophecy. I am not conveying in any manner that a definite day and time are predicted, but if you are a follower of the Bible, Jesus did tell us that we would know the signs of those days drawing closer as well as you could tell spring from winter and I believe we, who are looking, are seeing them coming to some sort of culmination of not getting any better, but instead we have fallen so far from where we used to be and it appears as if there is no going back.

There is a growing apostasy happening within the Christian church and we see more and more signs of those turning from the truth of what the Bible has said, and instead casting aside some of the teachings of condemnation and judgement in light of what will grow their churches inside and satisfy what the the world wants in a church now and not what has always been. We see people accepting that all religions are in fact the same in such worldly signs such as COEXIST. We see Muslims trying to convince the church that we all do in fact worship the same God, but we know that is another worldly lie. We have seen some of the signs prophesied being fulfilled such as the regathering of the Jewish people, the rise of globalism, as well as others that continue to move into a growing culmination of the end such as the ratification of a peace treaty between the nation of Israel and her enemies; rumors of wars in the Middle East, rebellion of apostasy.

I received The Coming Apostasy by Mark Hitchcock and Jeff Kinley compliments of Tyndale House Publishers. The purpose of this book is to help the reader understand what apostasy is, to help you understand that it is surging all around us and is a a serious sign of the end times, to guard you from a spiritual shipwreck and the danger of sinking in your own faith, and finally to help you understand the truth so you can stay on course until Christ's returns. Many people pray today for a great revival, and though it may happen, no such revival is prophesied. On the contrary, according to Scripture, a great apostasy is coming and you might just want to pay attention to just how close we truly are. I absolutely LOVE this book and give it a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion. I believe everyone needs to read this book and understand where we stand in regards to end times events and what are the signs we need to be aware of even in our own lives.

For more information about The Coming Apostasy, Mark Hitchcock, Jeff Kinley, or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

The Coming Apostasy by Mark Hitchcock and Jeff Kinley

You can find Mark Hitchcock on Facebook to stay up to date on all his latest books.

You can find Jeff Kinley on Facebook to stay up to date on all his latest books.

To see even more reviews on The Coming Apostasy, please visit Tyndale House Publisher's website.

The Returning

It all boils down to the ultimate show-down between good and evil in a Christian Dystopian look into the future with Rachelle Dekker's Seer series in her final novel The Returning. Ancient prophecy has always pointed to a future event that most thought would never happen. A thing written about with no basis for coming true, at least to those living in Authority City. Anyone who opposes those in power or has any idea other that confirming to the well-being of all citizens is simply sent to the re-education center to be administered with a serum known as the Genesis Formula. It makes them comply without thinking for themselves and now they become part of the collective minds of those running the city.

However, there is a band of rebels who have managed to leave the city despite all attempts to capture them. Within this band of fugitives are seven individuals who have been called to fulfill the prophecy of returning those in Authority city back to the way God had intended. Led by a man named Aaron who has shown them the ultimate way of living, no one knows if he is really a man or simply a figment of their over active imaginations. He has always shown them the real purpose of their lives and how those in power in Authority City have forced those in opposition to be re-educated or eliminated. He has uncovered the darkness that has been led to breed uncontrolled by those who have a sinister purpose in mind.

Now Carrington and Remko Brandt have to put their trust in Aaron to lead this team of prodigals on their higher purpose to release those in bondage using their unique specialized gifts granted to them by God to redeem those who are lost in an effort to set them free and restore the city back to the grand vision God has for them. However it is a difficult decision for the Brandt's since their oldest daughter, Elise, was captured during a raid outside the city and it has been years since that day. Not knowing if she is dead or alive, they trust that their youngest daughter Kennedy whose has vowed to find her if she is still alive and bring her back home. Just when this team heads out back to the city to fulfill their prophecy, an army marches against those living in sanctuary waiting for their return to take them captive and force them to submit to the darker authority now controlling Authority City.

I received The Returning by Rachelle Dekker compliments of Tyndale House Publishers and Net Galley. For fans of such series like Divergent and the Hunger Games, you will love this Christian take on a similar story line. Out of the entire series, I have to say my all-time favorite was The Choosing, the first novel. I love the different twist on the value people place on their looks and self esteem and how some were chosen and others who aren't are forced into a life of serving others within the city as outcasts. Dekker does an exceptional job at reminding readers between each novel what had happened prior so it is easy to pick up the action as you immerse yourself into each subsequent novel. This one was a bit predictable in some ways as you could figure out how things would need to be resolved before the series reached its conclusion. I would give this one a 4.5 out of 5 stars in my opinion however.

For more information about The Returning, Rachelle Dekker or where to pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

The Returning by Rachelle Dekker 

You can find Rachelle Dekker on Facebook to stay up to date on her latest novels.

To read more reviews on The Returning, please visit Tyndale House Publisher's website. 

The One Year Impact For Living Men's Devotional

I've been a fan of devotionals as part of my morning Bible Study and time spent studying the Word of God every day. I often felt that finding something that my husband could enjoy as well was lacking especially when I went searching for something for the perfect Christmas gift. Something that might encourage and challenge him to grow more stronger spiritually as well as something that deals with the aspects of being a man, husband, father and more when it came to devotionals.

Then I discovered The One Year Impact For Living Men's Devotional by Scott and Nathan Whitaker. It appeals to a man's sense of obligation as the leader of their own ministry opportunities whether in the home or the workplace. It was something that I felt encouraged him to not only become more aware of the power available to any man found in God's Word but how he could apply that in all aspects of his life. This devotional is laid out like you would imagine most devotionals would be, 365 individual lessons begin with a Scripture from the Bible and then how it might apply to the life of the one reading it. We even enjoyed reading it together through the month of December and what makes is wonderful is that you can begin at any point, as it is not geared to any particular year. For busy men, that makes this an added plus. It's like a having a spiritual mentor by your side to provide just the encouragement you need.

At the conclusion of each daily devotional is a impact application which might be a call to action, a way to begin to implement that particular lesson into the day or how to incorporate it into the daily lives of the men who read it. To help to encourage them to build up and strengthen those around them in their homes, jobs and ministries. I received The One Year Impact For Living Men's Devotional by Scott and Nathan Whitaker compliments of Tyndale Publishers and think this is a must have for any man in your life. I am so glad that this is something my husband and I can enjoy incorporating in our own morning devotionals and in the leadership opportunities he has in his own life. I easily give this one a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion.

For more information about The One Year Impact For Living Men's Devotional, Scott and Nathan Whitaker or where you can pick up a copy of this devotional today, please click on the links below:

The One Year Impact For Living Men's Devotional by Scott and Nathan Whitaker

You can find Nathan Whitaker on Facebook to stay up to date on all his latest projects.

For more reviews on The One Year Impact for Living Men's Devotional, please visit Tyndale House Publisher's website. 

The Calling

It seems the apple never falls far from the tree and in this case Rachelle Dekker is giving her father, Ted a run for his money. Genetics must place a role in the success of her Seer series which is a blend of Logan's Run meets Divergent. A suspenseful series involving a group of people who live under the Authority in the city and they decide who is successful and those who aren't that will spend their lives living in a servant subclass to those in the city. In the first novel in the series, The Choosing, readers got a chance to meet Carrington Hale, a young girl who was raised and groomed to hopefully make a successful match in the Choosing ceremony. But her future was not to be as bright as she had hoped and was left without being 'chosen.'

Now living a life as a Lint, the subclass who serves those in the city, she has been feeling as if there should be something more to this life and when she meets a wise old man named Aaron, who offers to show her another "way," she believes in a life of freedom that the Authority wishes to curtail. If everyone started to "think" for themselves, they might not adjust to the life that had been the way of life for all who serve the Authority.

Now Carrington and her group of people known as Seers, those who see with the true eyes of the Father, must work as fugitives to try and offer people an alternative to that of the Authority. It is a race against time as the Seers, now referred to as rebels and outlaws, must be hunted down until every last one of them is transitioned into the Genesis program. It is an experiment that the Authority has tested on its own citizens in order to reprogram them through a series of injections to reprogram their neural pathways and erase all memories of freedom and choice in the second novel, The Calling.

I received The Calling by Rachel Dekker compliments of Tyndale House Publishers for my honest review. I did not received any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions contained here are strictly my own personal ones. Fans of Christian Dystopian fiction will love this series as an alternative to Divergent, Hunger Games and others, and still provides readers with that same sense of suspense and heart stopping adrenaline you would expect as you are turning pages as fast as you can read. You just never know who are the true heroes and enemies in this series and wonder just where it will all go by the time the third novel rolls out. Truly had me guessing and reguessing all the way to the end. Well worth another 4.5 out of 5 stars in my opinion. A Reader's Discussion Guide is included at the conclusion of this novel that is perfect for book clubs.

For more information about The Calling, Rachelle Dekker or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

The Calling by Rachelle Dekker

You can find Rachelle Dekker on Facebook, to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

For more reviews on The Calling, please visit Tyndale House Publisher's website.

The Old Fashioned Way Devotional and Book Novelization - Review and Package Giveaway

 I love it when I have such an incredible giveaway opportunity it simply makes me want to share it with the world, especially when looking for great alternatives to dating and keeping things in a biblical perspective when it comes to relationship. Falling in the line with Old Fashioned the Movie and subsequent DVD, there is also a novelization based on the movie and a companion devotional in reclaiming the lost art of romance inspired as well by the motion picture Old Fashioned.

I believe more than ever, this is practical advice that provides the proper perspective both men and women need in regards to the alternatives to dating and relationships, and that is understanding the ideals and principles from both the Bible and from old fashioned courtships that keep purity and boundaries in place until marriage happens. It is something I feel women are searching for as they strive to find romance in often times the wrong places, wrong people and wrong relationships, because they are willing to give up and compromise on their personal beliefs for love.

In the novelization of Old Fashioned by Rene Gutteridge and based on the screenplay by Rik Swartzwelder, we follow the stories of Clay Walsh and Amber Hewson who have made some mistakes in their past which has moved them into their current situations on how they each view relationships from vastly different perspectives, in this case polar opposites. Clay was your stereotypical frat boy who found women were just part of the college experience and didn't care for feelings or emotions as he went through his experiences with women. Amber was severely abused physically, emotionally and mentally for not living up to the standards of the last guy she dated and now has a different view of what love looks like. Now they both are struggling to find something that works and in Clay's case a complete 180 degree of relationships when he forms boundaries that Amber sees as old fashioned in a contemporary world.

The devotional, The Old Fashioned Way, reclaiming the lost art of romance by Ginger Kolbaba is perfect in allowing readers to gain an idea of what it means to court others in lieu of dating them and opens up different perspectives I have never considered because often times we only look at our own wants and needs and remain indifferent to those of someone we might be interested in. Each chapter takes into consideration very different ideas explored both from the movie, Old Fashioned, but other world views as well and gives you some amazing biblical insight that is guaranteed to spark some very different conversations in your own relationships and that of raising morally conscience children.

I received Old Fashioned  the novelization by Rene Gutteridge and The Old Fashioned Way devotional by Ginger Kolbaba compliments of Propeller LLC and Tyndale House Publishers for my honest review of these wonderful books. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review outside of a free copy of each book for my honest opinion. These are must haves for anyone considering dating, parenting and relationships from a Christian and biblical perspective. They offer an alternative to what the world would view offers society today and in keeping with the biblical and moral standards found in the Bible. For me, these both are well worth all 5 out of 5 stars especially when parents are looking for an alternative way to keeping purity before marriage and a biblical view on relationships and courtship! Chivalry is definitely not dead!!

For more information about The Old Fashioned Way Devotional, Old Fashioned the novelization, Rene Gutteridge, Ginger Kolbaba or where you can pick these up today, please click on the links below:

The Old Fashioned Way Devotional by Ginger Kolbaba

The Old Fashioned Novel by Rene Gutteridge

You can find Rene Gutteridge on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest books.

You can find Ginger Kolbaba on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest books.

Learn more about Old Fashioned the Motion Picture on Facebook.

Now for the most incredible giveaway offer ever!!! I am offering an Old Fashioned DVD, The Old Fashioned Way Devotional and Old Fashioned The Novel to one lucky follower of my blog Reviews From The Heart. Here's what you need to do to enter:

1. "Like" Old Fashioned's Facebook page.

2. Be a follower of my blog Reviews From The Heart.

3. Be a resident of the US or Canada. Please No P.O. Boxes.

4. Leave a comment below telling me why you'd love to win the Old Fashioned Giveaway Package and how you plan on using it. Don't forget to include your email address. Without it, I can't contact you if you're the lucky winner. You can use the words (at) and (dot) instead of the symbols.

The giveaway will end on July 6th so be sure to make sure to enter and tell your friends and family about it as well. I will notify the winner by email so be sure to include it with your comments.


If you have been a winner of any Propeller or FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days you will be ineligible to participate in this giveaway to give everyone a fair chance at winning.

Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”):Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

Only one entrant and per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win.If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

The Choosing

"Truth Six: Not to be chosen would yield a cruel fate of my own making."

You are nothing.

The statements stuck  on repeat and Carrington couldn't turn them off - because they were true, because she was nothing. This was of her own making. As her mother reminded her before she left, she was not chosen. She is nothing.

Carrington Hale, thought despite all her efforts and that of her mother, that she would be chosen. That even right now, she would be with a man who would choose her as his future wife and the mother of their children, instead of where she is right now. Stripped of everything she was before arriving at the Stacks, her new home and wearing the new label of Lint. One who now serves the rest of the city doing whatever trade she would be assigned. She couldn't go back. She would have to accept her new fate. She must remember "As God set forth the law, so the law must be obeyed." This is her new life.

In the debut novel from author Rachelle Dekker, The Choosing is a Christian dystopian novel that combines what I would call a cross between The Divergent Series and The Hunger Games, but with a definite Christian twist. This is one series you won't want to miss and you are immediately hooked from page one.

Girls that are 17 find themselves preparing for what is called the Choosing Ceremony. They have planned for this moment their entire lives. Hoping to catch one man's eye since women were seen as having to submit to man's authority and thus to serve in the capacity of starting a home and family by being chosen! For Carrington Hale, she was at the top of her class and never for one minute did her family ever dream that she wouldn't. Now faced with no longer being able to see or visit with her family, she has been relegated to dwell as a Lint in one of many assigned trades that serve the Capital. It is the last place any one would want to live. Lints are the lowest form of citizen in the city and no one was allowed to interact with them.

Issac Knight is known as the Authority, the ruling class that sets the example of law and order for those that live in the city. Since the Ruining, he has been able to create a way of life that everyone in the city deems is appropriated following the examples laid out in the book of Veritas. His word is law and anyone who conflicts with the laws are punished. No one dares question the Authority as that is how they have all managed to survive. Now with his wife passing away, he hopes to convince the Council that he should take another wife, since he has no son to pass along his position as heir. Will Carrington get another chance at redemption or will this be a fate worse than death?

I received The Choosing by Rachelle Dekker as a self purchase from Tyndale House Publishers and received no monetary compensation for a favorable review. All I know after reading this one, is Ted Dekker has competition in his daughter's amazing ability to pull on the heart strings of what every woman faces, the need for affirmation of our self worth. I absolutely LOVE the science fiction flair that she incorporates this theme that Carrington struggles with in resolving who she really is outside from what others believe she is. The twist to this one is one you won't want to miss as someone is killing Lints in hopes of redeeming them to holiness from the level that have fallen as societies lowest form of life, while another named Aaron is convincing them that there is another way outside of what the Authority deems is righteous and true. I literally inhaled this novel in one sitting because it is that engaging and one that provides such interaction with the reader, you have to keep going to see how it will all play out. The only downside is the sequel to this isn't available until spring of 2016. This is the first novel in the Seer series and one this reader will definitely be waiting for. 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion!!!

For more information about The Choosing, Rachelle Dekker or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

The Choosing by Rachelle Dekker

You can find Rachelle Dekker on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on The Choosing, please visit Tyndale House Publishers. 

Chance at Loving You

When you take three very talented best-selling authors like Terri Blackstock, Candace Calvert and Susan May Warren and have them collaborate on three contemporary short romance stories and place them in one exception book, you have Chance at Loving You! This is such a beautiful collection of exceptional and heart-warming romance stories that offer the hope of redemption, the possibility of second chances and always following your heart despite the pain of the past. All of these stories do just that. This is a perfect book to pick up when you want a romance collection that will leaving you loving the stories and trying the recipes that concludes each one. Guaranteed to fill your heart and your stomach with love and culinary flavors!

Terri Blackstock takes the lead with For the Love of Money. Both Julie Sheffield, a waitress and Blake Adcock, an entrepreneur learn how difficult it can be to follow your dreams. Despite how much you might want them, God might have other ideas in mind when Blake loses everything but knows he can't stiff Julie and instead offers her an IOU along with half of a lottery ticket. Will they both win big or will money just cause more problems than either of them could possibly understand?

Candace Calvert whips up quite the delicious romance in The Recipe. Aimee Curran is about to see the reality of her dream of being a culinary winner of a vegan cooking contest when she realizes that the recipes of her mother's she had been relying on to help her win the contest, may have more to offer than the food she is trying to create and that might in fact save more than just the life of the seniors she works with. Is God cooking up something more than just food?

Finally Susan May Warren takes us for a spin with Hook, Line and Sinker which showcases Abigail Cushman and the man, Ross Springer she has always loved but never told him. Now they are faced off with a fishing challenge between their two ministry groups to see who can land the biggest catch over a three day trip. Will the odds be in her favor or does God have a bigger fish for her to catch in the process?

I received Chance of Loving You by Terri Blackstock, Candace Calvert and Susan May Warren compliments of Tyndale House Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of this book for my review and the opinions are strictly my own. I simply can't wait to try each of the recipes that accompany these stories that will definitely stay with you long after you finish this romance collection. These are some of my favorite books because you truly get a taste of each of these best-selling authors all tucked into one sweet romance book. In this reader's heart, it definitely has earned a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion.

For more information about Chance of Loving You, Terri Blackstock, Candace Calvert or Susan May Warren, please click on the links below:

Chance of Loving You by Terri Blackstock, Candace Calvert and Susan May Warren

You can find Terri Blackstock on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest books.

You can find Candace Calvert on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest books.

You can find Susan May Warren on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest books.

By Your Side

I used to be a huge fan of Grey's Anatomy but since some of the story lines have changed that don't fall into things I agree with, I have given it up. I am thankful for authors like Candace Calvert who write incredible medical fictions like her Crisis Team Series, and By Your Side is just the latest that I've had the pleasure to read.

ER nurse, Macy Wynn and Deputy Fletcher Holt find themselves meeting in unremarkable ways, the first being that they happened to be on the scene of an active freeway shooter who was taking shots at vehicles and caused what a traffic accident that thankfully didn't claim any lives. Macy was tending to a child who was thrown from a van and Fletcher just happened to be on the freeway heading home when the situation developed. Seeing themselves at odds, even though neither is there on official duty, they bump heads in dealing with their respective situations.

Macy won't leave her victim even though she wasn't dispatched, and Fletcher needs to ensure the safety of everyone while the shooter is located even if it means stepping on Macy's toes. He makes matters worse when the man Macy arrived with appears to have been drinking and he want's to perform a DUI field test on a man well connected with politics. Macy knows things are going to get out of hand and heated if she can't find a way between them. Fletcher eventually ends up letting Macy drive them both home. But it doesn't end there.

As the shooter remains at large, his targets grow increasingly larger, from a police dog at a school to victims at a local bank. The one common factor besides the area of his aggression is Macy. Fletcher isn't sure just what the connection is, but when Macy is one again at the scene of another shooting, both her employer and Fletcher wonder just what is going on even though Macy assures them she is completely innocent on all accounts. Aside from all this both Macy and Fletcher are dealing with their own personal crisis while trying to keep their growing attractions for one another at bay.

I received By Your Side by Candace Calvert compliments of Tyndale House Publishers for my honest review and did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review. The opinions contained in this review are strictly my own. I absolutely was engaged in this storyline from the first page and Candace does an exceptional job at keeping the action moving forward and the reader interested until the final page. For me, this marks the sign of a great novel, one in which the reader takes a personal interest in the characters and one that they don't lose interest in the storyline along the way. For me, that makes this one a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion. I love that things are nicely tied up with a bow as these two interact and life complicates their romance at times because that is believable. I can't wait for more from this author in the very near future. This is the first novel in the Crisis Team Series!!!

For more information about By Your Side, Candace Calvert or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

By Your Side by Candace Calvert

You can find Candace Calvert on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on By Your Side, please visit Tyndale House Publishers website. 

Wonder

If you have never read Travis Thrasher's novels, he pretty much has a novel written to meet every interest but for me, nothing is more thrilling than to find Christian authors who know how to keep you glued to their novels, add the element of suspense and things that go bump in the dark, and you have me on their waiting list for the next one!

In the coming of age series geared more for the young adult or teen fans, The Books of Marvella have struck a cord in this book lover's heart! To say that there is something evil coming in the town of Appleton, earmarks what you will find when you enter the life of Brandon Jeffrey, a senior struggling to make his way in a difficult world marked by two unsolved murders involving teens that have happened in his town.

To say that the town is on edge is an understatement. Parents are concerned that their teens don't go out at night or alone until the person or persons responsible are caught. There is something brewing with an elderly man known as Otis who owns the quarry. Late at night he can be seen burying things in the back of his house but no one knows what is is. Now it seems he has formed a following when Brandon's best friend Devon, takes up watching his nightly activities believing he is behind the sinister evil building in town. Brandon doesn't want anything to do with stalking people at night especially when he is dealing with his own abusive alcoholic father who almost killed him in a car accident, watching over his younger brothers, keeping the secrets of the abuse from his mother, and trying to win the girl of his dreams.

Sounds like the typical life for a senior teen living in Appleton right? Now that school is back in session, all those summer escapades have not been forgotten. Brandon's intervention with the school's bullies, who also happen to be on the football team, have not gone unnoticed. Brandon's ex girlfriend, Taryn is stirring up trouble for Marvel on Social Media sites and Marvel still believes she will die doing something for God's glory and it will happen sooner than everyone believes. So just what is hiding in the shadows of Appleton? Only time will tell.

I received Wonder by Travis Thrasher compliments of NavPress, a division of Tyndale House Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are strictly my own. The best part of this entire series, is the tension that Travis is building but not sharing what is really going on. He is keeping that just beyond what the reader can see, but the suspense element that keeps coming from each of this novels is growing. Evil is slowly showing itself in the unexplained and just who is the hippie older man, Phil who shows up just when Brandon seems to be willing to take unexpected risks? We know he works at the record store with Brandon, but is there a spiritual element here at work as well? All I can tell you is that I can't wait for the next novel and poor Travis Thrasher can't write fast enough for me. This one hits it out of the park again with a stellar 5 out of 5 stars! Suspense fans looking for a bit of the creep factor, pick this entire series and Solitary Tales as well. This is the second novel in The Books of Marvella series with Marvelous being the first. Start there before reading Wonder or it simply won't make sense.

For more information about Wonder, Travis Thrasher or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Wonder by Travis Thrasher

You can find Travis Thrasher on Facebook to stay up to date with all his latest novels.

To read more reviews on Wonder, please visit Tyndale House Publishers website. 

Marvelous

Ever since reading the Solitary Series from best-selling author Travis Thrasher, I knew I wanted more! Something that you find yourself going back to again and again in memory of a great series. He has done just that with the Books of Marvella Series and I couldn't be more excited. Not sure how I missed knowing these were coming out, but now, I know they will be just as good if not better than  the Solitary Series was.

Marvelous is the first novel in the Books of Marvella series and begins with the life of Brandon Jeffrey, the oldest of three boys in the Jeffrey household. He is on summer break before heading into his senior year, one he is looking forward to completing in more ways than one. For Brandon it's not just about graduating, its about freedom from his abusive father who spends all his free time, drinking instead of looking for work. It is all Brandon can do to find ways to stay out of the reach of his father's drunken outbursts, which he hides from his two younger brothers and his busy hard working mother, a lawyer who can only see the best in him.

Brandon is struggling to find jobs to pay back the loan his parents provided him to buy a car, which was totaled when he loaned it to a friend. His father intends to ensure that Brandon pays all the money off this year and seeks to remind him of it whenever he gets the chance. Through a seemingly random coincidence, Brandon runs into Marvella Garcia, who goes by the name Marvel at Fantastic Street, a record store where he offers her a job even though it's not his decision. He decides she is so worth knowing he will find a way to get his boss Harry to hire her just to keep her around.

In between dealing with his father, the town of Appleton learns that a young boy Artie Duncan has been brutally murdered. While the police struggle to find suspects, they ask that all teens stay inside after dark and stay in groups. Brandon is your typical high school boy with an unbeatable crush on Marvel who insists that she only wants a friendship with Brandon. He only hopes in time he can convince her to possibly go on a date, while trying to keep the local football bullies from beating up a timid nerd named Seth. Brandon wonders if these same bullies could be the ones responsible for the death of Artie seeing as they love intimidate anyone they can.

I received Marvelous by Travis Thrasher compliments of NavPress, a division of Tyndale House Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions contained here are my own. This is such a realistic novel as told from the eyes of Brandon Jeffrey. He has his own issues to deal with coming to terms with how to handle his father, and being able to be truthful when he needs to. Trust is a big issue here, and it takes confiding in Marvel to help him come to terms with his own deep dark secrets. But the town of Appleton is hiding its own secrets while the murder investigation continues. I love the emotions that come through in each character that comes to life in this series, from the bullying of Seth and how he struggles to handle it each time he runs into the football team, to Marvel sharing her insight into what has happened in her past that has lead her on a path for God. I can't wait for the next novel Wonder which is the second book in this amazing series. Solitary Tales fans? You will definitely want this one!! I rate this a 5 out of 5 stars!!!

For more information about Marvelous, Travis Thrasher or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Marvelous by Travis Thrasher

You can find Travis Thrasher on Facebook to stay up to date on all his latest novels.

To read more reviews on Marvelous, please visit NavPress' website. 

Driftwood Tides

Sometimes when we hold onto too tightly to our dreams, they can slip between our fingers no matter how tight we try and hold on. In the case of Holton Creary, he can seem to find anything to live for any longer. Since losing his wife Adele, five years ago, he believes he was at fault. He had fixed her brakes in her car and that fateful morning when she left, she died when she hit another car head on. The results of just what caused the crash were inconclusive, but in Holton's heart, he was to blame.

Now struggling to make ends met as a driftwood sculpture, he finds the only way to get through the long nights in look down the inside of any gin bottle he has handy. His assistant Tess, knows from experience, that the only way for an alcoholic to get help is when he is ready. No amount of pressure can make anyone want to get better. For Holton, he has virtually given up. He can only hope one day, he will drink his way into unconsciousness and never wake up.

To make matters worse, a local artist is copying Holton's driftwood sculptures and selling them for a whole lot less and taking his contacts within the local community. But no matter how low Holton offers to sell his original creations, Henry just keeps under cutting his prices to take away any hope that Holton can make a living.

Libby is struggling to find a way to tell her over-bearing mother, Caroline, that the wedding she had dreamed of is vastly becoming the one Caroline never had. She is sparing no expense to ensure that Libby has the finest wedding she can afford. But Libby has news that is bound to rock Caroline's world, yet she doesn't realize it will also rock hers as well. In being tested for genetic abnormalities in preparation for her wedding to Rob, Libby discovers that the woman she believed to be her birth mother has been lying. The test results have confirmed that her mother, Caroline, and her birth father both had O+ blood types and Libby's is an A+. There is no way, she is the product of the parents she has believed up to now and now she has to find a way to confront Caroline. When she learns that she was adopted and her birth mother is Adele Creary, she sets out to find out just why her mother put her up for adoption. But she won't be ready to learn what she discovers in the process.

I received Driftwood Tides by Gina Holmes compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance and Tyndale House Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions contained here are strictly my own. This is such a moving story about finding hope in the midst of loss, learning how to find forgiveness and overcoming storms to see new future. Gina does such an exceptional job at bringing the reader down to Holton's level and seeing just how bad things are in his eyes. He has lost all hope despite what lies all around him. He begins to relate to the broken pieces of driftwood he finds abandoned on the beach as if no one wants them any longer. The transformation of what he creates by fashioning them into a work of beauty isn't apparent until Holton can hit rock bottom. Only then will he be able to look up instead of where he has been.

For those that know what the struggle of alcoholism can do not only to the person drinking but to their support system as well, this is an eye opening look at reality at it's bleakest from the eyes of those who have been there. It's not pretty and it's not supposed to be. The writer doesn't attempt to rush this to a conclusion but show you that the path often offered isn't the one that is chosen instead. She makes you care deeply for both Libby and Holton as they both struggle to overcome their pasts and instead look to embrace a future of hope, but it will take blood, sweat and a whole lot of tears to get there. It's truly a beautiful look at restoration and hope and one I give a 4.5 out of 5 stars in my opinion.

For more information about Driftwood Tides, Gina Holmes or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Driftwood Tides by Gina Holmes

You can also find Gina Holmes on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on Driftwood Tides, please visit Christian Fiction Blog Alliance's book tour page. 

Firewall

Sometimes whenever I pick up a novel I'm not sure it will be a great one or just an O.K. one. But then there are those so great that you simply can't put them down until the end. The action level in them is fast paced, heart-stopping and literally on the edge of your seat, that when life comes along, like doing dishes or laundry, you have to put those things aside. I mean honestly, how can you leave your character's lives hanging in the balance, while you wash and dry a sink full of dishes? Answer, you can't!

I am one of those readers that will take the time to read the comments posted about the novel or the author and then consider how accurate or completely wrong some may be. I mean, be honest, they all can't be that great right? In the case of DiAnn Mills latest novel Firewall, they really are! This one completely grabs your attention from the first few pages and immediately you are hooked. We meet a lovely couple just on the verge of celebrating their honeymoon. Taryn Young and her new husband Francis Shepherd are heading to the airport to begin their honeymoon on the islands of San Juan. Everything is perfect including putting away all of Taryn's technology so they can truly celebrate and spend time as husband and wife. Just before boarding their plane, Taryn makes a final restroom stop and a bomb goes off in the airport. Realizing she is lucky to be alive at all, she is immediately taken to the hospital for her injuries.

She certainly doesn't expect to be interrogated by the FBI when she wakes up. They believe that Taryn and her husband, whom she refers to a Shep, are responsible for the bombing at the airport. They have video footage that clearly shows Taryn heading into the restroom and Shep departing the airport in the same limo that brought them both there. Clearly she believes that they are making a mistake, because why would her husband be leaving the airport? They were leaving on their honeymoon and even if something came up, he wouldn't leave her behind. Right? But everything Taryn believes about the last three months of her whirlwind romance with Shep is about to be drawn into questioning and soon she'll begin to realize the man she married isn't who she thought he was after all. Even more troubling, he is out to find her at all costs and get the one thing he desperately needs that could be her entire country at risk for terrorist threats.

I received Firewall by DiAnn Mills compliments of Tyndale House Publishers and Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions contained here are strictly my own. I have to agree with those that commented, "Firewall is a gripping ride that will keep your blood pumping and your imagination in high gear. ~ Dani Pettrey" or "Firewall is an up-until-2 a.m. book...I had no idea who the mastermind was until the last two or three pages. ~Lauraine Snelling." I agree with them 100%. If you love a book that will keep you glued while life simply has to wait until you finish this novel, please pick it up. It's like Mission Impossible rolled together with a bit of Jason Bourne and a definitely a shot of sizzling romance on the side! By far one of the best action adventures I've read and thanks to DiAnn Mills for signing my copy with the word, "Expect an adventure!" That is definitely what I got and more. Well worth every one of the 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion! This is the first book in the FBI: Houston Series! Can't wait for even more action to come!

For more information about Firewall, DiAnn Mills or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Firewall by DiAnn Mills

You can also find DiAnn Mills on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on Firewall, please visit Christian Fiction Blog Alliance's book tour page. 

Paige Turned

I can only imagine drinking more Starbucks in a day than the employees do, but it's all in hard days work for Paige Alder, working for her church as a youth teen intern. She thought this would be a 40 hour work week but lately it's been more along the lines of 70. On an average day she meets with around 8, teen-age girls and spends an hour, just drinking coffees, frappachinos, or just talking about whatever is on their minds. Just when she thinks she has spare time to run home to her apartment and change, she has to manage planning her best friend, Layla and her sister, Preslee's wedding as their Maid of Honor. How does she even have time for a love life?

Well now that it seems as though she has a handle on that with helping Tyler understand that she did have a past relationship with Luke, Layla's brother, but that it is definitely over in her mind, it seems as if Tyler has gotten more than cold feet when it comes to deciding if dating Paige is the thing for him. In fact, his behavior around her suggests that he is just waiting for the right opportunity to break things off with her, seeing as they haven't talked much in the last few months. But with Paige being busy at work, and dealing with wedding plans, she hasn't had time to put much thought into what is going on with Tyler. Funny, she just thought, she finally had the perfect guy, now what?

Such is the life of Paige Alder, in Paige Turned, the third book in the Paige Alder Series by Erynn Mangum. I've had the wonderful opportunity to be able to experience all three of these books in the series, and I can honestly say, this was not my favorite of the three. Dealing with all of Tyler's drama, Paige is more patient than I think most girls would have been when their "boyfriend" seems less than thrilled each time they talk or run into one another. Paige doesn't seem as concerned as I believe most girls would have at the prospect of potentially seeing him break up with her. After numerous times when she thinks he will, he simply walks away. But Paige perseveres and it pays off in the end, although by the time she got there, I was hoping she would pick things back up with Luke again. I love the part in the book when she has to meet Tyler's mother over lunch and can only imagine how difficult that would have been for anyone.

I received Paige Turned by Erynn Mangum compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance and NavPress, a division of Tyndale House Publishers. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are strictly my own. After reviewing this one, I'd give it a 4 out of 5 stars. You can find all three of the novels in the Paige Alder series at your favorite book retailer. For more information on Paige Turned, Erynn Mangum or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Paige Turned by Erynn Mangum

You can also find Erynn Mangum on Facebook to stay up to date on her latest novels.

To read more reviews on Paige Turned, please visit Christian Fiction Blog Alliance's book tour page. 

Claiming Mariah

Just when things couldn't get any worse for Mariah Malone, in rode trouble. Tall, dark and handsome Slade Donovan was about to change Mariah's life in an unbelievable way. After losing her father, she has managed to attempt to hold down things at her father's cattle ranch the best she could, but after fighting a losing battle after two years of profits she wasn't prepared for what Slade had on his mind.

In response to her letter advising him that she had recently been made aware of her father stealing half of the gold between her father and Slade's, she wanted to make things right. She wanted to offer him a cut of her cattle in hopes of mending the broken fences that kept the two families at odds. Only Slade wanted more than simply a pay off from Mariah. Armed with proof that the mine that both men found gold in was in his father's name only, anything bought with that gold was his, and he wanted to make sure that he got back what he believed he was entitled to and that meant the ranch and everything on it.

Believing that God had an answer for this shocking revelation, Slade's brother Buck was able to convince Slade to allow Mariah and her aging grandmother to stay on the ranch until his family finally came to settle in, and would pay for her upkeep of the house and meals for him and his brother. Mariah knew that the only way she and her grandmother could hope of traveling back to Philadelphia was to accept Slade's offer and save everything she could.

But soon Slade discovers the reason why the ranch hasn't been turning a profit and believes that Mariah's mismanagement of the cattle sales to pay for her sisters school in Philadelphia is something she has long overlooked. Without giving her a chance to explain, he immediately shuts down any attempt she makes and keeps his opinions to himself. Mariah concedes to sign the deed to the cattle ranch over to Slade as long as he promises he will keep the real reasons for the sale private to keep her family name intact in town. Will the two of them be able to work together long enough for them both to benefit or will the anger that Slade has in his heart drive her away forever?

I received Claiming Mariah by Pam Hillman compliments of Tyndale House Publishers and Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions contained in this review are strictly my own. I love how Pam wrote this story from the hearts and perspectives of both Mariah and Slade. Mariah's faith keeps her strong in spite of the circumstances that threaten to leave her homeless and with nothing, while Slade keeps fighting the faith that Mariah has to keep God out for the unanswered prayers he had as a child. He loves what he sees in Mariah but can't see past his own hard heart for the answers to peace and happiness. Where as his brother Buck who is facing his own challenging odds keeps God in perspective and realizes that nothing that happens is God's fault. It will take an act of faith to bring Slade around. I easily give this one a 5 out of 5 stars! Pam Hillman is now one of my must have authors! I am completely addicted to her western novels.

For more information about Claiming Mariah, Pam Hillman or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Claiming Mariah by Pam Hillman

You can find Pam Hillman on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on Claiming Mariah, please visit Litfuse Publicity's Book Tour Page.

Every Waking Moment

Treha Langsam has a unique ability and one that works well where she is employed. She can connect with those who seem lost within themselves, victims of such illnesses like Dementia and Alzheimer's who rob not only the family members from being able to communicate with their loved ones but often times the loved ones who remained trapped within prisons of their own body. Treha can relate because she too is different. Judged by outside appearances of eye movements she can not control, often time society has a label of "different" that they place on her instead of simply getting to know the real person behind what the skin hides.

Perhaps this is the very reason she can connect with those elderly loved ones she helps in the Desert Garden Home. Unlike most retirement and hospice centers, the director Miriam Howard sees more that just providing a place for the elderly to live out whatever remains of their life. She believes in treating them like family and the center more like a real home. One in which they find love and acceptance and not abandonment and loneliness and Treha provides that connection to draw them out where they remained locked inside their body.

Now if only someone can find the key in which to unlock the past that remains hidden even to Treha, one that will provide to her the answers which she seeks, who she is, does she have a family out there somewhere and can someone help her physically to get better. It seems that the answers lie within one elderly patient Dr. Crenshaw who finds that sharing riddles, puzzles and word clues with Treha's unparalleled ability to solve them in record time holds the key that will unlock the door to her hidden life.

I received Every Waking Moment by Chris Fabry compliments of Tyndale House Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed are strictly my own. I LOVE Chris Fabry's novels because hidden within the pages of each one is a treasure waiting to be found. I don't even have to read the book premise any longer when I know he has written another new novel because I know I will enjoy it like eating my favorite meal. It is meant to be savored because you don't get them that often so you LOVE to enjoy every single moment. This one was no exception. I love how Chris chose to incorporate a retirement home and the telling of the stories the elderly hold is exceptional and often taken for granted the stories that each one holds inside. We get a glimpse of some of those and it gives us wisdom if we are willing to listen and take the time to hear them. I rate this novel a 5 out of 5 stars.

For more information about Every Waking Moment, Chris Fabry or where to pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Every Waking Moment by Chris Fabry

You can find Chris Fabry on Facebook to stay up to date with all his latest novels.

To read more reviews on Every Waking Moment, consider stopping at Tyndale House Publisher's website.

• Paperback: 400 pages
• Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers (August 16, 2013)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1414348630
• ISBN-13: 978-1414348636
• Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 5.4 x 1 inches