Category: Non Fiction

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - The Parent's Battle Plan by Laine Lawson Craft (Giveaway)

6/1/2023

You are not alone–there is hope and healing for every hurting heart.
Today’s technology has made sinful experiences and deadly choices accessible to our teenagers and young adults with just a click. And parents are left with the disappointments–and devastating fallout–of their children’s choices.
Through sharing her own story of praying three very wayward prodigals home, Laine Lawson Craft offers not only hope and insight, but also a practical, tried-and-true battle plan for parents walking this heartbreaking season of life. You’ll discover how to

handle the emotional roller coaster of trust
deal with your children’s self-destructive choices
pray emboldened by God’s promises
fight for your child’s destiny
and more

You can win the war of darkness over your children–even when you don’t get the miracle you asked for.

Genre: Non-fiction
Release date: March 14, 2023

Click here to get your copy!

Interview with Laine

#1. What was the inspiration behind this book?
To help other parents who are struggling with wayward children no matter how old they are, find hope to win their prodigal back home and heal their families.

#2. How long did it take to finish writing this book?
9 months.

#3. What part of the writing process do you like the least?
Laying out the chapter sequence.

#4. What new or interesting things did you learn while researching for this book?
I learned parenting styles that I had never really studied. I learned more about enabling and how it can be a huge factor in changing our children or not.

#5. Tell us something funny, sad, embarrassing, whatever, that happened involving this book.
I like to say that the tears flowed down my cheeks as the words flowed from my fingers to the keyboard. The tears were so heavy that my desk would be soaked at times. As I recounted the heartbrokenness in many seasons when all three of my teens and young adults were in the dark pit of the world’s evil lure and enticements. Those were painful memories. But I was so happy to share with tears of joy the hope that they all became whole, healed, delivered, and free!

#6. What drew you to take on this topic through non-fiction versus fiction?
It was through my life’s tried-and-true story.

#7. What people influenced you the most while writing about this topic?
My three adult children that are now thriving in life!

#8. How has writing about this particular topic changed your own life?
This topic has shifted my whole focus now. I believe God will use me from this point on until my death helping parents and families.

#9. Did you have a specific demographic in mind while writing this book?
YES! Teen parents, grandparents, and any loved one that was experiencing a wayward child no matter how old they are.

#10. What do you hope your readers will remember after finishing this book?
That NO child. NO prodigal is TOO far gone for God! One touch from God change everything instantly!

#11. Share with us a thought, Bible verse, whatever is on your mind/heart.
God was the first prodigal Father. He gave Adam and Eve a wonderful life and asked them not to do one thing. Then they disobeyed. God knows our heartache and pain when our children fall away from the faith and values we have for them. So, we must partner with God, He’s our Father, too, He has trusted us to steward His children, that are ours here on earth. Then we need to Pray with the power of the blood of Jesus Christ and trust that God will touch them, bring them home, and heal our families.

Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to
them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

More from Laine

I would love to introduce my friend, best-selling and award-winning author, whom you may not know yet with a little of the behind the scenes insight. She’s a mom, wife, and partners with God making impossible things become possible not only in her life but for thousands of others. She has a unique perspective because she had a seventeen-year-old marriage resurrect, a financial breakthrough after almost filing bankruptcy, a daughter healed from life-threatening illnesses, and three prodigal children delivered that are now free, whole, and healed. In 2006, she realized that what she was doing as a parent was not working. It seemed that her emotional pleas, rules, and religion weren’t helping her bring her prodigal back home. So she decided and made it my mission to partner with God at a whole new level and created a new way of parenting – one that would bring peace to her life, help millions of other parents, and bring their prodigals back home too. Her newest book, The Parent’s Battle Plan: Warfare Strategies to Win Back Your Prodigal is a must-read book to help parent’s with wayward teens and young adults.

Laine Lawson Craft

Laine Lawson Craft (www.lainelawsoncraft.com) is a best-selling and award-winning author, popular media host, and in-demand speaker. The founder and publisher of WHOAwomen magazine (2010-2018), she regularly hosts online challenges and masterclasses as well as Facebook and Instagram Live events that reach thousands. Her Warfare Parenting podcast encourages parents of adult children. Laine and her husband, Steve, have three children and live in Florida.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Laine is giving away the grand prize of $100 Amazon gift card!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!

https://promosimple.com/ps/26267/the-parents-battle-plan-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 25
Vicky Sluiter, May 26 (Author Interview)
Locks, Hooks and Books, May 27
Simple Harvest Reads, May 28 (Author Interview)
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 29
Guild Master, May 30 (Author Interview)
Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, May 31
Tell Tale Book Reviews, June 1 (Author Interview)
Texas Book-aholic, June 2
An Author’s Take, June 3
Artistic Nobody, June 4 (Author Interview)
The Life We Build, June 4
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 5
Vibrant Wings, June 6
By The Book, June 7 (Author Interview)
Walking Fruitfully, June 7

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2023 Birthday Celebration - A Love Most Precious by Anita Higman (Giveaway)

2/28/2023

3 Comments

What does true love look like?

The book of Ruth has all the makings of a great love story: a grief stricken past, a homecoming, the challenge to survive, a poor Cinderella who chooses to serve, and an upstanding man of status who notices her. He fights to save her future. This Old Testament Bible story is about a love story far more immense than that of Ruth and Boaz.

During this 90-day devotional by Anita Higman, you will be inspired by the heartwarming, true story of Ruth containing priceless gems: the power of an eternal love to redeem a bereaved mother, a foreign widow, a reformed prostitute's son, all God’s people, and yes, even you. God has the power redeem our broken spirits, broken hearts, and broken pasts. Come discover a precious, life-changing love hidden within four illuminating chapters of Scripture that will delight your heart and refresh your soul! It's also the perfect gift for a friend on any occasion.

ISBN-13: ‎978-1648708411

Interview with Anita Higman about
A Love Most Precious

#1. What was the inspiration for this book?
I was listening to some amazing and unique music, which was inspired by the Book of Ruth, and that work of art then inspired me to want to write a devotional book on Ruth. It amazes me how art can inspire other kinds of art. It’s fascinating how this whole process works in us and how it has the curious and wonderous potential to keep going like a never-ending ripple effect.

#2. How long did it take to finish writing this book?
Maybe around six weeks to two months. But once I begin, I try to not to take a lot of time off even with errands. I sometimes just keep going not bothering to change out of my PJs.

#3. What did you find the most difficult while writing this book?
Doing the research!

#4. What do you hope your readers will take away with them when they read this book?
That no matter our background, no what the world thinks of us, and no matter what we’ve done wrong, that the Lord treasures us and longs for a friendship with us—for all time. And amazingly, we can choose to have that through Christ’s gift of salvation!

#5. Tell us something funny, sad, embarrassing, whatever, that happened involving this book.
Well, one humbling thing I keep relearning as I write devotional books is that the more I read and study the Bible, the more I have to face my great lack of knowledge!

#6. Where did your research take you while writing this book?
While trying to research the culture back in Ruth’s time or really any part of Biblical history, one discovers that in some ways people are very different than in our society today, and yet there is a sameness to it that is remarkable. People back then had some of the same fears and doubts and joys and longings as we do today. And there will always be that profound craving in one’s soul—no matter what ancient people or modern folk we’re talking about—that cannot be filled by anything but God.

#7. How has writing about this particular topic changed your own life?
Because I had to get to know Ruth on a deeper level, I now have a greater interest in the Bible in general. I get excited to see what God might like to show me in His Living Word.

#8. What demographic do you think this book will appeal to the most?
I am hoping and praying that this book will bless women of all ages.

#9. What drew you to write non-fiction versus fiction?
I love writing short pieces, and so to concentrate on one devotion at a time is not only satisfying but easier for me to accomplish.

Bonus. Share with us a thought, Bible verse, whatever is on your mind/heart.
My life verse is Psalm 19:14...

Anita Higman

Anita Higman—an award-winning and bestselling author from Texas—has authored or coauthored fifty-plus books, and she has a BA in the combined fields of speech communication, psychology, and art. A few of Anita’s favorite things are fairytale castles, antiquing, exotic teas, gardening, and laughing with her family and friends! Her latest book, A Love Most Precious, is a collection of devotions inspired from the book of Ruth in the Bible. Please drop by Anita’s website at anitahigman.com. She would love to hear from you!

It's Time For A Giveaway!

(2) winners will each receive a print copy of A Love Most Precious

(USA ONLY)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Stepping Stones by Dr. Joelle Suel (Giveaway)

1/15/2023

5 Comments

Do you deeply desire to answer the call of God on your life? Are you seeking divine wisdom for the steps and stops to take in your pursuit? Are you willing to count the cost and do whatever it takes? Join author Dr. Joelle Suel in Stepping Stones: 7 Steps to Achieving Your Divine Destiny as she equips all believers to fulfill God’s purpose for their lives while sharing some of her inspirational journey.

Genre: Christian Personal Growth
Release date: November 30, 2018

Click here to get your copy!

Interview with Dr. Joelle

#1. What was the inspiration behind this book?
The inspiration behind this book was to share with others God’s purpose to use them as they follow their heart’s desires.

#2. Tell us something funny, sad, embarrassing, whatever, that happened involving this book.
Computer crashes caused the loss of my manuscript twice. Each time I almost quit, but each version turned out to be better than the last. The blessing of perseverance!

#3. Did you have a specific demographic in mind while writing this book?
The specific demographic I had in mind while writing this book was Christians who seek to follow God’s will for their lives.

#4. What do you hope your readers will remember after finishing this book?
After finishing this book, I hope readers will remember that, by God’s grace, they can accomplish whatever they set their heart on, from faith to faith.

#5. Share with us a thought, Bible verse, whatever is on your mind/heart.
He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it. –1 Thessalonians 5:24 NKJV.

More from Dr. Joelle

Dear reader,
God loves us and counts us precious in His sight. We are full-time ministers wherever we are, and through whatever we do. Where our feet stand is where our pulpit stands. We shine the light of our Lord, Jesus Christ, and glorify Him, often without realizing it. God desires to use all of us in and through our daily activities.
My prayer is that this book will encourage and empower you to answer His call, from faith to faith. I trust the Spirit of God will strengthen you to continue what you are currently doing and lead you into additional steps in your divine purpose.
Below, please find a few quotes from the book to bless you today.
He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it. –1Thessalonians 5:24 NKJV
Abundant blessings upon you and your family,
Dr. Joelle

What we do portrays a greater message than what we say.
We cannot seek God’s approval and man’s approval at the same time.
The trust in ourselves decreases as our trust in God increases.
When Christ becomes our motive for ministry, doors open for Him, not for us.
Never stop starting.
We cannot expect from others what only God can give.
Humility is the gateway to knowing Him.
What is on the inside comes out under pressure.
We do not complete with others, but we complete one another.
If I criticize who I am, I criticize God Himself.
What we dwell on, we eventually dwell in.
We cannot respect what we don’t value.

Dr. Joelle Suel

Dr. Joelle Suel is founder and Senior Pastor of Glory to Glory Christian Center in Aurora, Colorado; founder and Dean of Glory to Glory Institute of the Holy Spirit; and author of the Institute curriculum and a daily devotion, Today with Dr. J. Her 2018 book, Stepping Stones, equips readers to answer the call of God in their lives. She is in the process of making all of the Institute curriculum available in book format. She earned her Doctor of Ministry degree from the Phoenix University of Theology in 2006. A native of Puteaux, France, she became an American citizen in 2003.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Joelle is giving away the grand prize package of
a $50 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!

https://promosimple.com/ps/23681/stepping-stones-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, January 6
Texas Book-aholic, January 7
Beauty in the Binding, January 8 (Author Interview)
Christina’s Corner, January 8
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 9
deb’s Book Review, January 10
Locks, Hooks and Books, January 11
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, January 12
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 13
Library Lady’s Kid Lit, January 14 (Author Interview)
Tell Tale Book Reviews, January 15 (Author Interview)
Mary Hake, January 15
Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, January 16
Cover Lover Book Review, January 17
Splashes of Joy, January 18 (Author Interview)
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 19

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10th Blogoversary Scavenger Hunt Stop #4 Cindy Thomson

12/7/2022

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Stop #4

Cindy Thomson

Excerpt from Celtic Wanderings

I have long believed that the way to progress along the Christian path is to look back at those who have traveled it before us. I think most Christians would agree with that idea because it’s what we do by studying the Holy Scriptures. In addition, I value learning from the stories of the ancient saints, specifically those referred to as Celtic saints. With this in mind, I’ve created this book that I hope will guide and encourage you on your way.

Celtic wanderings did not consist of random stumbling along dark paths. The pilgrimages the Celtic Christians took might at first glance appear to be nothing more than random jaunts without clear purpose. Peregrinatio is the Latin term for a wanderer for Christ and is often used to describe these ancient Celtic Christians who set sail on rudderless boats or searched for hermitages in the wild. They weren’t physically headed for a destination such those who took pilgrimages to the Christians sites of the day such as Rome, Italy, or Tours, France. Spiritually-speaking they were in fact looking for something in particular. The Promised Land, the place of our resurrection as Christians. I invite you to join me on this spiritual quest within the pages of this book.

Many people make devotionals a part of their morning quiet time routine. While you may use these devotions anytime, consider changing things up by reading them in the evening or reading them in the evening or at bedtime instead. The Celtic people saw nighttime as a beginning rather than an ending as we tend to.

The Celts celebrated their festivals after sunset when for them, a new day was beginning. An example of this is Halloween, or All Saints Eve, generally believed to have originated in Ireland and was observed during the dark half of the day. I have found evening devotionals to be calming and renewing after a busy a day. You might as well.”

(Sample devotional)

TRAVEL
Evening Three

Keeping the fire burning in the hearth was extremely important in ancient times, not only for heat, but also for light.

Imagine for a moment just how dark night would be without electricity or any power source. If you lived in the Middle Ages in the Celtic regions of Ireland, Scotland, Wales, or parts of Britain, you likely lived in a sparsely populated area. If your fire went out, chances were there was not another to draw from nearby. Outside your door lay a wild place where wolves roamed. A traveler without a torch faced the danger of falling into a bog even if he or she were successful in escaping predators. Now imagine the Celtic Christian trying to navigate his or her faith in the same vein, except swap the need of a torch for a lack of scripture. While it’s true God can be seen in and his ways taught through nature and beside other believers (a centrally held belief of Celtic Christians), scripture was essential. Without it one would be in danger of falling prey to sin or straying far from God. The psalmist is referring to following God’s laws and used this illustration because back then being without a lamp in the dark could be quite treacherous.

The ancient Celtic Christians lived by the Psalms. In the earliest days of St. Patrick and for a hundred or so years after, there were not many copies of the rest of the Bible. The Psalms were memorized and chanted in a song-like rhythm similar to what scholars believe was the psalmist’s original intention.

Psalm 119 contains multiple reminders of spiritually traveling by way of God’s laws. I can picture the ancient monk or nun on a journey or imagine them simply moving from chore to chore while reciting this verse over and over, allowing the words to light the path.

CHALLENGE:

Repeat this evening’s verse several times.

Then read Psalm 119 in its entirety. How has this influenced the way you think of scripture?

Dear Father, allow your words and your laws to light the depths of my heart. Help me to remember to meditate
on these words as the day comes to a close. Amen.

Excerpt From CELTIC WANDERINGS, a 40-Day Devotional by Cindy Thomson
This material is protected by copyright.

Cindy Thomson

Known for the inspirational Celtic theme employed in most of her books, Cindy Thomson is the author of both novels and non-fiction books. She is co-founder of the Faith & Fellowship Book Festival vice president of the Mordecai Brown Legacy Foundation, and frequent Thurber House teacher. She owns the team site Novel PASTimes, a blog for readers of historical fiction. A genealogy enthusiast and traveler to Ireland, she writes from her home in Central Ohio. Visit her online at www.CindysWriting.com

Why does Cindy Thomson recommend reading the devotionals
in her book, Celtic Wanderings, in the evenings?

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Movie Review - The Case For Heaven (Giveaway)

7/17/2022

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The Case For Heaven exclusively on Pure Flix
starting July 15th!

We all want to know what happens after we die. In THE CASE FOR HEAVEN, best-selling author and investigative journalist Lee Strobel explores the evidence for the afterlife in order to address man’s biggest fear: death. Inspired by his own brush with death, Strobel searches for answers to the most profound questions we all have, about heaven, hell, and Near-Death Experiences. Featuring interviews with experts and skeptics, THE CASE FOR HEAVEN will challenge, encourage and inspire as Strobel dares to probe the most important question. If there is a heaven, can we prove it?

Watch

We are curious by nature. Taking on the big questions about heaven, hell and the afterlife, The Case For Heaven—a documentary based on the best-selling book by Lee Strobel—invites you to carefully investigate the knowable and respond with faith to the unknowable.

My Review

Where do we and our loved ones go?

What question does everyone ask but most are too afraid of the answer...What happens after we die? Through interviews with Christians and skeptics alike, author and journalist Lee Strobel explores one of the most difficult questions in this beautifully made documentary.

I sat down to watch The Case For Heaven on a hot summer afternoon and unlike many documentaries I never got distracted. I was impressed with the entire documentary from start to finish. It was so well laid out, the progression from one section to another was natural, and it was very easy to follow. I loved the addition of nicely done animations that illustrate many of the interviews as well as the dictionary word definitions that popped up as little surprises every now and then.

While I didn't really come away believing anything different than I did before, I did feel greatly encouraged in what I did believe. Some of the thoughts expressed by the people interviewed were so profound and thought provoking that I actually found myself writing some of them down notes-style in a text document on a laptop. From concrete facts to the more abstract, these were things I'd like to remember and use later.

Does The Case For Heaven tell you what to believe? Nope, but it asks the tough questions and takes viewers on a journey of discovery. The entire thing can be summed up in something Lee Strobel himself said, “Keep Seeking. The Truth Is Out There.”....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Case For Heaven a 4.5 Bark rating.

(Disclosure: Many thanks to Pure Flix for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.)

It's Time For A Giveaway!

Enter to win a 3 month subscription to PureFlix!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

#CaseForHeavenMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

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Movie Review - Kirk Cameron Presents: The Homeschool Awakening (Giveaway)

6/12/2022

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The world is your classroom!
Hear more about the value of homeschooling from a homeschool dad himself: Kirk Cameron!

Families across the nation are experiencing the homeschool awakening, taking advantage of the freedom and opportunities for self-discovery -- with the world as their classroom. Join award-winning actor, Kirk Cameron, as he dives into the adventures of dynamic American families on a mission to put fun and faith back into learning. The Homeschool Awakening explores the ins, outs, and honest answers to homeschooling’s most frequently asked questions.

BUY TICKETS now to see The Homeschool
Awakening in theaters nationwide June 13 & 14!

TICKETS

Website

My Review

Homeschoolers are not just that weird family...

Homeschooling has become a hot topic, particularly over the last couple of years. All of a sudden the families who were once assumed to be just plain weird and even borderline antisocial were the people to talk to when most parents abruptly had to deal with their kids at home all of the time.

I was curious to see The Homeschool Awakening as soon as I heard about it. I've been out of school more years than I shall admit here and I wondered how our ever-changing world has affected the rapidly expanding homeschooling community. In this documentary Kirk Cameron, whose own kids were homeschooled, throws open wide the door into what many assume to be the mysterious world of homeschooling. Through interviews with parents and kids alike, he explores the reasons why families have made the choice to homeschool, how each family tailors their homeschooling experience to fit their own families, responds to some of the myths about homeschoolers, and offers encouragement to those considering homeschooling.

My mom chose to homeschool my younger brother and I right from the start after our then local public school system drastically failed our older brother with a combination of poor teaching and downright abuse. It wasn't popular back then, co-ops and groups were nearly unheard of, but homeschooling made the difference for us. For our family the freedom to work with and around some long-term health effects and to make our own schedule was so very important.

Even though I am out of the (home)schoolroom and have no kids of my own I still found this very well-made documentary to be surprisingly encouraging for me personally. I have always been thankful that I was homeschooled but I took away a renewed sense of the value of the knowledge and skills I learned. I was reminded that every person is smart in their own way, and that just because my choices after and because of being homeschooled, have been unconventional doesn't diminish what I have to give.

Whether you have been homeschooling for years or are only now thinking about making the jump The Homeschool Awakening is fascinating, thought-provoking, and full of encouragement. Don't let anyone convince you that your are inferior and can't teach your kids, after all, who knows your kids and is more qualified to help them learn and grow than YOU!

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Homeschool Awakening a 4.5 Bark rating.

(Disclosure: Many thanks to TBN & CamFam Studios for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.)

It's Time For A Giveaway!

1 winner will receive a $10 Amazon giftcard!

(USA ONLY)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

#HomeschoolAwakeningMIN #TheHomeschoolAwakening #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

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Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Anything But Simple by Lucinda J. Miller (Giveaway)

4/10/2022

4 Comments

Plain? Yes. Simple? Well…

If you live in a conservative Mennonite community, edges are sewn shut and questions have answers. So if you’ve got a saucy tongue and a roving curiosity about the world, you’ve got a story to tell.

As a schoolteacher in a small Mennonite school in rural Wisconsin, Lucinda J. Miller wears long dresses and a prayer covering. But she uses a cell phone and posts status updates on Facebook. So why would a young woman with access to all these technologies remain in a sheltered community like the Plain Mennonites? How can someone with an eye for beauty and a sometimes sardonic wit stay within a tradition that values discipline and submission and uniformity?

Anything But Simple is the stirring memoir of a young woman’s rich church tradition, lively family life, and longing for a meaningful future within her Mennonite faith.

Genre: Memoir
Release date: July 25, 2017

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

Wonder what it's like to be Mennonite?

Like many people I would suspect, my interest in the Plain people, specifically Amish and Mennonite stemmed from one too many Beverly Lewis novels devoured from the public library shelves. Since then my interest has shifted more towards what they themselves have to say. When I picked up a book from the library about Hutterites in my home state, written by a Hutterite woman, it was one of the most fascinating books that I read that year. So when I saw the title Anything But Simple: My Life As A Mennonite and read the back cover blurb it went right up my TBR stack.

Relatively short and easy to read, Lucinda J. Miller's words are refreshingly honest. And what I found amazing was how easy it was to relate to her. Even though I'm a jeans wearing girl who only covers her hair when winter is at its coldest I could understand many of her struggles. Trust me, no matter the denomination, if you were raised in church you will totally get it. The struggle to measure up to what seems to be impossibly high standards and still be yourself, the internal battle when new ideas and new perspectives are introduced, the questions and doubts, the feeling of not always fitting in, and the journey to find your place and your own faith and not just that of your parents and the people who have always surrounded you. I doubt there is a single person who was raised in church who hasn't been confronted by someone they like or trust with questions, sometimes quite hostile, that challenge your beliefs and leave you feeling jangled and grasping for an answer. What it all boils down to is exactly as Lucinda J. Miller says in the title of the book, it's Anything But Simple.

While I haven't dealt with all of the same doubts, insecurities, and pressures that Lucinda J. Miller has, her words still resonated with me. Maybe it's one Millennial to another or just one girl raised in a quirky faith-filled home to another girl also raised in a quirky family of faith. Whatever it is, Anything But Simple: My Life As A Mennonite was interesting, eye-opening, and most definitely worth the time taken to read...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Anything But Simple: My Life As A Mennonite by Lucinda J. Miller a 4 Bark rating.

(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

More from Lucinda

Me, and The People Who Shaped Me

My dad used to say that every person in your life is placed there by God for a reason. Even the ones you don’t like are there to teach you something.

Learn.

If you don’t, God may send someone else to teach you the same lesson you couldn’t learn the first time around.

Anything But Simple is my story, the story of a shy little Mennonite girl growing up to be a writer and asking questions along the way. It is also the story of the many people who enriched my life.

My dad, with his black hair and handsome face and stories from his past.

My mom, with her smooth sweaters and her sure and solid love.

My bishop with his mouth that turned down like a turtle’s.

My creative writing professor who loved words in a way I had never seen in anyone but myself.

Charlene.

Mara.

Deqo.

Jake.

From these people and alongside these people I arose, breathing, questioning, earnest.

Our journey, like the journey of all the squiggly and intricate humans that wander the face of the earth, is anything but simple.

Lucinda J Miller Kinsinger has always viewed herself as a shy little Mennonite girl, but refuses
to let that stop her from pursuing what she loves—whether that’s writing with honesty and
vulnerability or traveling to a remote village in China. In 2019, she married Ivan, the love of her life,
and moved from the flat, tree-lined fields of her childhood home in Wisconsin to the rolling hills of
Garrett County, Maryland. The couple has a baby daughter, Annalise. Since the publication of
Anything but Simple, Lucinda has published a second memoir, Turtle Heart: Unlikely Friends with a
Life-Changing Bond. She is columnist for Anabaptist World and blogs at lucindajkinsinger.com.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Lucinda is giving away the grand prize package of
a $25 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!

https://promosimple.com/ps/1c574/anything-but-simple-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, April 2
A Reader’s Brain, April 3
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 3
Inklings and notions, April 4
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, April 5
All-of-a-kind Mom, April 5
She Lives To Read, April 6
deb’s Book Review, April 7
A Melodious Sonnet, April 7
Locks, Hooks and Books, April 8
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 9
Tell Tale Book Reviews, April 10
Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, April 10
The Avid Reader, April 11
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 11
Rebecca Tews, April 12
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, April 12
Sodbuster Living, April 13
Boondock Ramblings, April 13
Vicky Sluiter, April 14
For Him and My Family, April 14
Spoken from the Heart, April 15

4 Comments

Book Review - The Wonder Of Creation by Louie Giglio (Giveaway)

11/26/2021

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Genre:
Non-Fiction / Kids Devotional

The Wonder Of Creation:
100 More Devotions About God & Science
by Louie Giglio with Tama Fortner (Nicola Anderson, illustrator)

Well-known for his powerful messages about science and the Bible, Louie Giglio has a passion for inspiring kids to notice, enjoy, and be in awe of God's creation. In The Wonder of Creation, children will find new delight in God's creativity with 100 devotions that explore:

Animals--from honeyguide birds to flying snakes to white rhinos
Space--from black holes to volcanic moons to gamma-ray bursts
People--from optical illusions to brain freezes to our immune systems
Earth--from rainbow rivers to blue lava to flowing glaciers
And much, much more!

With engaging illustrations and striking photography, this fun and informative book is ideal for children ages 6–10. Each of the 100 devotions features a scientific fact or an easy activity for exploring faith, a short Bible verse, and a closing prayer. With a brightly embossed cover and a ribbon bookmark, The Wonder of Creation:

Is ideal for science-loving kids, Bible-loving kids, and any child ready to go deeper in faith.
Continues a well-loved devotional series that has sold more than half a million copies.
Makes a great addition to a homeschool STEM curriculum or a bedtime reading routine.

As kids dive into this awe-inspiring devotional,
they'll be amazed at the many wonders God has made!

Buy

My Review

Learning Science & the Bible together for kids...

Long long ago in, what sometimes seems like a galaxy far far away, my dad sat down with a Bible and a set of children's devotionals and worked through them with me every day. I would follow along as he read and he would underline each word with his finger. Like several famous historical figures, I learned to read from the Bible. Totally true story. If there's one thing, or rather two things, that I can tell you it's that there is a lot of power in children's devotionals and that there is nothing like taking the time to read to your kids. Both will stay with that child long after they have grown up.

With those things in the back of my mind I read The Wonder Of Creation. Straight through, cover to cover. Not only was I fascinated by all of the science facts, impressed by Louie Giglio's (with Tama Fortner) skill at weaving science and faith principals together so cohesively, and charmed by Nicola Anderson's totally cool illustrations, but I found myself benefiting from all of it even as an adult.

The Wonder Of Creation's layout is easy to read and utilize. Each 'chapter' consists of a Bible verse, science facts (pertaining to space, earth, animals, and people) that are then cleverly drawn into an important faith or life lesson, a prayer that directly relates to the chapter, and a bonus type related scientific fact. Each one is also accompanied by at least one full color illustration and some even have an additional photo. One other big bonus is the way pronunciation guides have been embedded for most of the 'big' words. The book is simple enough for reading age kids to do on their own but it would also be ideal for (grand)parents to read together with their grand(child).

Louie Giglio (with Tama Fortner) and illustrator Nicola Anderson have done an excellent job putting The Wonder Of Creation together. Even as an adult I found myself learning some new things and being inspired by the lessons and prayers. I enjoyed reading the book and wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to families...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Wonder Of Creation by Louie Giglio (with Tama Fortner) & Nicola Anderson a 4.5 Bark rating.

Disclosure: Many thanks to HarperCollins Christian Publishing for providing this product/product information
for review. Opinions are 100% my own. I did receive the product in exchange for this review and post.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

1 physical copy of The Wonder of Creation
This giveaway is limited to US winners only.

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Book Review - God With Us: A Journey Home (Giveaway)

11/18/2021

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Author Jeremy Pierre and illustrator Cassandra Clark want to awaken children to a brave journey — a journey home. This world is not our home. We live east of Eden and short of Heaven. The earlier children understand this, the more sense they can make out of this sad, wonderful place. This storybook aims to share their vision of the world as a place in-between, to awaken them to the brave journey they must take toward their true home — their home with God.

Hardcover: (268 pages) with full-color illustrations

Buy

“This is a beautiful re-telling of the most beautiful story ever told.”
—Karen Swallow Prior, Professor of Christianity & Culture, and author of On Reading Well: Finding the Good Life through Great Books

My Review

Kids journey through the Bible toward Home...

Part storybook, part devotional, all Truth. God With Us: A Journey Home is a well written adaptation of the best love story of them all, God's love for humanity. Through the fictional eyes of two angels author Jeremy Pierre and illustrator Cassandra Clark take kids, and the adults around them, on a full-color journey through the Bible, from Creation to Revelation, that reminds them that this world isn't where we belong and God has perfectly planned our return to His perfect home for us.

Even though I am an adult I found the book compelling and a wonderful reminder of truths that are often lost sight of in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Yes, the Jeremy Pierre's well chosen words are aimed at children, as are Cassandra Clark's vivid illustrations, but Truth is applicable for all ages.

As I read God With Us: A Journey Home I knew that it would be a great choice for parents or grandparents to read to their (grand)kids. Just a chapter before bed or first thing in the morning. Something of a devotional and definitely a conversation starter. It's a great base to start exploring Scripture as we each make our journey toward Home...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives God With Us: A Journey Home by Jeremy Pierre & Cassandra Clark a 4 Bark rating.

Disclosure: Many thanks to Shepherd Press for providing this product/product information for review. Opinions are 100%
my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive the product in exchange for this review and post.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

Win 1 physical hardcover copy of the book

(This giveaway is limited to USA winners only.)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

#GodWIthUsMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

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Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - In His Presence by Dr. E.W. Kenyon (Giveaway)

1/10/2021

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Here, at last, is a real solution to the prayer problem!

In His Presence by E. W. Kenyon is not about who others were and what they did in prayer, but about who we are and what we can do in prayer. It lifts the curtain to the Holy of Holies and reveals our ability to enter in and stand before the presence of God.

In this book, you will discover that God’s ability is available to every one of His children. You will be challenged to climb the heights and sound the depths of tremendous spiritual realities, including the authority of the name of Jesus and how to use it.

In His Presence has been a challenge and blessing to countless multitudes all over the world. It removes the mist surrounding the prayer life, leading us out of spiritual mysticism into the true light of life.

This is your invitation to open the door…enter…and stand in the Father’s presence!

Genre: RELIGION / Christian Living/Prayer
Release Date: December 11, 2020

Click here to get your copy!

More from Whitaker House

In His Presence by EW Kenyon is not written about what others were and did, but about what we are and can do! It is a lifting of the curtain and a revealing of the holy of holies and our ability to enter it and stand in the presence of the Father. In His Presence is a discovery of the fact that God’s ability is available to every child of God. This is your invitation to open the door…enter…and stand in His presence, in the presence of the Father!

Dr. E. W. Kenyon

Dr. E. W. Kenyon (1867–1948) was born in Saratoga County, New York. At age nineteen, he preached his first sermon. He pastored several churches in New England and founded the Bethel Bible Institute in Spencer, Massachusetts. (The school later became the Providence Bible Institute when it was relocated to Providence, Rhode Island.) Kenyon served as an evangelist for over twenty years. In 1931, he became a pioneer in Christian radio on the Pacific Coast with his show Kenyon’s Church of the Air, where he earned the moniker “The Faith Builder.” He also began the New Covenant Baptist Church in Seattle. In addition to his pastoral and radio ministries, Kenyon wrote extensively. Among his books are The Blood Covenant, In His Presence, Jesus the Healer, New Creation Realities, and Two Kinds of Righteousness.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate their tour, Whitaker House is giving away the grand prize package of
a $20 Starbucks gift card and a copy of the book!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!

https://promosimple.com/ps/10533/in-his-presence-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 7
Texas Book-aholic, January 8
Inklings and notions, January 9
Tell Tale Book Reviews, January 10
deb’s Book Review, January 10
Locks, Hooks and Books, January 11
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 12
Artistic Nobody, January 13
For the Love of Literature, January 14
Ashley’s Bookshelf, January 15
Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, January 16
Sara Jane Jacobs, January 17
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 18
Vicky Sluiter, January 19
Mary Hake, January 19
For Him and My Family, January 20

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Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Nasty Gets Us Nowhere by Drenda Keesee + Spotlight & Giveaway

9/12/2020

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Two women who forever changed the world followed a plan to better their lives. One chose God’s design for her. The other listened to a different voice that questioned God and rebelled against Him.

Women and men today face the same decisions that confronted Mary and Eve. We can either seek the Tree of Life with God…or keep biting into the bitter fruit from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil.

Statistically, women today are less happy than at any time in measured history. This extolled knowledge of good and evil has had consequences. It’s not about equality in work, pay, or choices. It’s about women wanting to become “like men” instead of being women. It’s about women who aspire to be “nasty” and men who are confused about what it means to be a real man.
Nasty Gets Us Nowhere reveals the powerful truth behind learning to do relationships like Christ, particularly relationships between men and women. Our culture often incites rebellion, but God calls us to work together. As Galatians 5:15 says, “If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other” (niv).

In an age saturated with feminism and gender wars, ex-feminist Drenda Keesee combines her wit, humor, and life experience to unpack a powerful, timely message that sets the record straight. She reveals why men and women have conflict, what God’s plan for unity is, and how men and women can unite to create an unstoppable force. Drenda believes the pendulum is swinging and there are many conservative women and men who want to make amends and discover how to have relationships that work. There’s also a younger generation searching for keys to live a different life than what they’ve seen modeled.

Drenda says we can see eye to eye when we first see heart to heart and spirit to spirit, coming from a place of cooperation instead of conflict. God’s Spirit coupled with His plan is the only answer to the separation and relationally destructive forces at work in the gender wars. It’s time for restoration and healing, to bring men and women side by side, hand in hand. There’s much at stake. We must understand our uniqueness, our vulnerabilities, and Christ’s unalterable principles for successful working and loving relationships to experience fulfillment and lasting peace.

Genre: Family & Relationships
Release Date: September 1, 2020

Click here to get your copy!

More from Drenda

Nasty Gets Us Nowhere reveals why men and women have conflict and God’s plan to unite them for His kingdom. Coming from a feminist background, I realized that wasn’t the way God intended for me to live.

Drenda Keesee

Drenda Keesee is a speaker, pastor, daytime television show host, entrepreneur, and author of several books. She has ministered on television and radio and at churches, seminars, and conferences for more than twenty years. Drenda is passionate about bringing women into spiritual, emotional, and relational wholeness so they can live “The Happy Life,” and has founded several programs to that end.

She and Gary Keesee, her husband of thirty-five years, met while attending Oral Roberts University and pastor the 4,500-member Faith Life Church, with campuses in New Albany and Powell, Ohio.

The Keesees have created several successful businesses in the financial arena and are the founders of Faith Life Now, which produces two television programs: Drenda, seen daily on several networks and weekly on Daystar; and Fixing the Money Thing, airing daily on Daystar, GEB, BET, Victory, CTN, VTN, and NRB. Drenda serves as host on these programs, which reach 750 million households worldwide.

Drenda has appeared on numerous other television programs, including Joyce Meyer’s broadcast Enjoying Everyday Life, Table Talk with Joni with Joni Lamb, Marcus & Joni with the Lambs, VictoryThon, and more. She has been featured on CharismaNews.com, Hannah Keeley’s Crazy Blessed podcast, thelaundrymoms.com, and on the cover of Daystar News. Drenda also speaks at conferences worldwide and is known for her ability to inspire, empower, and encourage others to improve their marriages, raise strong children, get out of debt, and embrace God’s best for their life.
In addition to her graduate studies at Oral Roberts University, Drenda received a master’s degree in Christian counseling from Logos University and an honorary doctorate of divinity from CICA International University and Seminary.

The Keesees have five children and several grandchildren. They reside in New Albany, Ohio.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Drenda is giving away the grand prize package of
a $20 Starbucks gift card and copy of the book!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!

https://promosimple.com/ps/10095/nasty-gets-us-nowhere-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, September 9
Locks, Hooks and Books, September 10
A Baker’s Perspective, September 11 (Spotlight)
Tell Tale Book Reviews, September 12 (Spotlight)
Godly Book Reviews, September 13
Blossoms and Blessings, September 14 (Spotlight)
deb’s Book Review, September 14
Sara Jane Jacobs, September 15
21st Century Keeper at Home, September 15
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 16
Texas Book-aholic, September 17
Artistic Nobody, September 18 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)
Inklings and notions, September 19
For Him and My Family, September 20
Ashley’s Bookshelf, September 21
Splashes of Joy , September 22 (Spotlight)

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E-Book Review - The Neglected C.S. Lewis by Mark Neal & Jerry Root (Non-Fiction)

8/13/2020

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Genre:
Non-Fiction / Literary

The Neglected C.S. Lewis
by Mark Neal & Jerry Root

-From Goodreads-

Readers who can quote word for word from C.S. Lewis’s theological classic, Mere Christianity, or his science fiction novel, Perelandra, have often never read his work as a professional literary historian. They may not even recognize some of the neglected works discussed, here. Mark Neal and Jerry Root have done students of Lewis a great service, tracing the signature ideas in Lewis’s works of literary criticism and showing their relevance to Lewis’s more familiar books. Their thorough research and lucid prose will be welcome to all who would like to understand Lewis more fully, but who feel daunted by books of such evident scholarly erudition.

This Book received a 4 Bark rating.

For example, when you read The Discarded Image on the ancients’ view of the heavens, you understand better why Ransom has such unpleasant sensations when first descending toward Malacandra in Out of the Silent Planet. And when you come across Lewis’s discussion in OHEL of a minor sixteenth-century poet who described the hellish River Styx as a “puddle glum,” you can’t help but chuckle at the name when you meet the famous Marshwiggle in The Silver Chair. These are just two examples of how reading the “Neglected Lewis” can help every reader understand Lewis more fully.

ISBN-13: 9781640602946

Learn more about C.S. Lewis's love of books...

This is one book that will take some for me to digest. There was just so much information and I'll confess that it has taken me longer to read The Neglected C.S. Lewis than it should have. I found myself reading a bit, putting it aside, thinking about what I had read, and then picking it back up for a little bit more.

I picked up Mark Neal's and Jerry Root's book because I have long been curious about the genius of C.S. Lewis. My second confession is that out of his works I've only read The Chronicles Of Narnia, though I've read all but one of them multiple times, so they're the only ones I feel truly familiar with. However, while reading a biography of his friend and fellow Inkling, J.R.R. Tolkein, I learned a bit more about his vast knowledge and wide range of interests, which, of course, interested me. So, I wanted to know more and The Neglected C.S. Lewis admirably fit the bill.

As I said before, I'm still digesting the contents of the book, even though it is more of an easier to understand guide to some of Lewis's lesser known, and mostly scholarly, works. But, there were a few things that really stood out to me. The one that I feel is most important, at least for me personally, was Lewis's strong belief that we do a disservice to ourselves and the original authors when we try to view historical works through a modern viewpoint. It just doesn't work and we can never truly understand, or even enjoy, those older books if we do so. Other points include: not assuming that newer is better, not looking condescendingly at historical authors just because morals have changed or new information has been discovered, that we should not place authors or books or even historical eras into neat little labled boxes, that language is fluid so it's important to know where we've come from, and that we should take books as they are written without assuming that we know better than the author what was originally meant. There is so much, much more in the book that I can't go into here or this review will be a book in itself! Suffice to say, Mark Neal and Jerry Root have done an excellent job introducing readers to more of C.S. Lewis's work.

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Neglected C.S. Lewis by Mark Neal and Jerry Root a 4 Bark rating.

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Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Miracles For Veterans + Spotlight & Giveaway

6/24/2020

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Military veterans experience stress and trauma that civilians cannot even begin to imagine. No matter what branch they were in, whether they saw combat or not, their service left an indelible mark on their bodies, hearts, and minds, souls and spirits. Even those who have not suffered external injuries can be affected by post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, anger, and other issues. They need healing on multiple levels.

Joan Hunter tackles all of the problems that veterans face in her new book, Miracles for Veterans. She covers some of the root causes; the positive aspects of service, such as growth and maturity, as well as the negative effects, including physical, emotional, and spiritual injury; and the consequences of service on general and cellular memory. Joan offers guidance to those ministering to veterans, healing prayers, and insights on prevention.

Among the testimonials included in Joan’s book is that of Auston O’Neill, 71, who travels throughout the United States to play “Taps” on his bugle for any deceased veteran whose family requests it as a member of Bugles Across America.

Auston is battling terminal cancer that has spread to his lymph nodes, but his faith is strong. “You know, I believe in God for my healing,” he says. “I’m getting stronger as the days go by. I’m not getting weaker.”
Joan notes God is limitless and His Word is true. He is ever ready to heal us if we only will believe.

Genre: Non-fiction, Christian Living
Release Date: May 15, 2020

Click here to get your copy!

More from Joan

God has a plan for your life. Your previous experiences are meant to prepare you for the next chapter of your life. Whether the stress was positive or negative, God can use you! He will use all of you for His pur-pose. He will turn all negative stressful and traumatic experiences into some-thing good.

Please have an open heart and mind as you continue. Some stories in this book may make you cry while others will make you smile. All of this information will prepare you to walk in total victory and help others to do the same. God is always faithful and He hears your heart’s cry. Open your arms to your Father’s love right now and let that love heal you—body, mind, spirit, emotions, and finances.

Believe this is the day for your breakthrough, your victory. Everyone has bad days. Some have bad months, but there is SONshine coming for every-one. Just like a new recruit has to go through basic training or boot camp in order to advance in rank and responsibility, everyone has to do the same in God’s military. Learn the offensive thrust that carries you to the frontlines and through the enemy’s defenses.

Get prepared. Stay prepared. Don’t run away or get trampled on. Don’t be left behind.

Our motto is PUSH: Pray Until Something Happens!

Be on the offensive and go after God. He is the Commander in Chief of these end-time armed forces!

Joan Hunter

Joan Hunter is a compassionate minister, dynamic teacher, accomplished author, and anointed healing evangelist who has devoted her life to carry a message of hope, deliverance, and healing to the nations. As founder and president of Joan Hunter Ministries, Hearts 4 Him, and 4 Corners Foundation, and president of Hunter Ministries, Joan has a vision to equip believers to take the healing power of God “beyond the four walls of the church to the four corners of the earth.” Joan’s genuine approach and candid delivery enables her to connect intimately with people from all walks of life. Some describe her as “Carol Burnett with the anointing of Jesus.”

Joan ministers the gospel with manifestations of supernatural signs and wonders in healing schools, miracle services, conferences, churches, and revival centers around the world. She is sensitive to the move of the Spirit and speaks prophetically to the local body and into the individual lives of those in attendance. Joan’s genuine approach and candid delivery enable her to connect intimately with people from all educational, social, and cultural backgrounds.
At the tender age of twelve, Joan committed her life to Christ and began faithfully serving in ministry alongside her parents, Charles and Frances Hunter, as they traveled around the globe conducting Healing Explosions and Healing Schools until their deaths. Prior to branching out into her own international healing ministry, Joan also co-pastored a church for eighteen years.
Joan brings a powerful ministry to a world characterized by brokenness and pain. Having emerged victorious through tragic circumstances, impossible obstacles, and immeasurable devastation, Joan is able to share a message of hope and restoration to the brokenhearted, deliverance and freedom to the bound, and healing and wholeness to the diseased. Joan’s life is one of uncompromising dedication to the gospel of Jesus Christ, as she exhibits a sincere desire to see the body of Christ live in freedom, happiness, wholeness, and financial wellness.
Joan has ministered in countries all over the world and has been featured on Sid Roth’s It’s Supernatural, My New Day with Drs. Bob and Audrey Meisner, Everlasting Love with Patricia King, and on Marilyn Hickey’s Today with Marilyn and Sarah. Joan hosts a powerful and exciting show of her own, Miracles Happen! Joan’s television appearances have been broadcast around the world on World Harvest Network, Inspiration Network, Daystar, Faith TV, Cornerstone TV, The Church Channel, Total Christian Television, Christian Television Network, Watchmen Broadcasting, and God TV.
She is a noted author whose books include Love Again, Live Again; Healing the Whole Man Handbook; Healing the Heart; Power to Heal; Supernatural Provision; Freedom Beyond Comprehension; and Miracle Maintenance.
Joan and her husband, Kelley, live northwest of Houston, Texas. Together, they have four daughters, four sons, three sons-in-law, and seven grandchildren.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Joan is giving away the grand prize of a $20 Starbucks gift card!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!

https://promosimple.com/ps/fc83/miracles-for-veterans-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Inklings and notions, June 17
Artistic Nobody, June 18 (Spotlight)
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 19
Vicky Sluiter, June 20 (Spotlight)
Texas Book-aholic, June 21
Library Lady’s Kid Lit, June 22 (Spotlight)
For Him and My Family, June 23
Tell Tale Book Reviews, June 24 (Spotlight)
deb’s Book Review, June 25
My Devotional Thoughts, June 26 (Spotlight)
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 27
Through the Fire Blogs, June 28 (Spotlight)
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, June 29
For the Love of Literature, June 30 (Spotlight)

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Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - When Your Voice Became Mine by Celeste N. Bowers + Spotlight & Giveaway

1/23/2020

6 Comments

For all those who have lost hope and purpose, and for all those who hurt deep inside from loss, author Celeste Bowers wishes she could spare you from pain, just as she hoped she could shield her own ten-year-old daughter, Christina, from the storms.

Although she can’t protect you from life’s tragedies, Celeste can tell you this—and she is proof of this—no matter how hard you fall or how much you ache, God will lift you up with new purpose. He will carry you out of the weeping waves and safely to shore.

Celeste has been sending “packages” to heaven since her daughter passed away on May 29, 2005. What she never fathomed were the gifts sent back to deeply define her.

In a moment, Christina’s voice became hers. In that same moment, she knew “there is a mailbox in heaven.”

Genre: Non-Fiction
Release Date: November 2019

Click here for your copy.

More from Celeste

Time is such a fragile commodity. When someone we love passes away, we want the whole world to stop moving and acknowledge what truly matters at that moment—but we also want time to fly so we don’t have to endure another day without our loved ones. What helped me move gently through time was nothing that came about by my own means. Instead, I have trusted God wholeheartedly to navigate my path.

Time does not exist in heaven. Since heaven is our real home, I will not allow time to consume me here on earth; instead, I choose to use my precious time wisely. I have been sending “packages” to heaven—letters that I write to my ten-year-old daughter Christina—since she passed away on May 29, 2005. Each one is tied with my hopes, wishes, and newfound purpose. What I never fathomed were the gifts from above that would be sent back to me.
In a moment, Christina’s voice became mine.
In that same moment,
I knew there is a mailbox in heaven.

Celeste N. Bowers

Celeste Bowers has been blessed with gifts of writing, teaching, coaching, making people laugh, and being a mom. These gifts held crucial roles when her daughter, Christina, was diagnosed with cancer. Every gift Celeste received from God is tied together in her words. Packages bundled in love and filled with life lessons are sent to heaven in her first book, If There’s a Mailbox in Heaven. Christina’s testimony and Celeste’s newfound purpose are now joined together in When Your Voice Became Mine.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Celeste is giving away the grand prize package
of a signed copy of each of her books, along with a $25 Amazon gift card!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!

https://promosimple.com/ps/f469/when-your-voice-became-mine-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 10
Where Crisis & Christ Collide, January 11
Artistic Nobody, January 12 (Author Interview)
For Him and My Family, January 13
Book Love, January 14 (Guest Review from Lucy Reynolds)
Through the Fire Blogs, January 15 (Author Interview)
For the Love of Literature, January 16
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 17
Texas Book-aholic, January 18
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 19
A Baker’s Perspective, January 20 (Author Interview)
Inklings and notions, January 21
janicesbookreviews, January 22
Tell Tale Book Reviews, January 23 (Author Interview)

6 Comments

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Soul Mend by Luann Dunnuck + Interview & Guest Post & Giveaway

11/14/2019

4 Comments

Restore your emotional health!

Have you felt trapped in an endless cycle of fear, anger, guilt, and other negative emotions? Has depression, anxiety, fear of rejection, or the inability to let go of past hurts robbed you of peace?

No matter how hopeless or discouraged you feel, freedom is possible. It’s time to get to the root of your pain so you can heal. In Soul Mend: Discovering Spiritual and Emotional Health, author Luann Dunnuck shows you how to uncover the source of your emotional struggles and experience wholeness with the help of God’s Holy Spirit.

See the connection between your mental and physical health. Find scriptural truths to help you work through emotional struggles. God has answers for you and declares in Jeremiah, “Is there anything too hard for Me?” Let Him do the impossible in you as you apply the concepts in this book, rely more heavily on God, and regain the joy of living!

Genre: Christian Non-fiction, Christian Personal Growth, Counseling
Release Date: April 12, 2019

Click here to get your copy.

Interview with Luann

1. What was the inspiration for this book?
The inspiration for this book was that I don’t want to see others stay stuck in emotional and physical bondages. I know first hand what both afflictions are like and the despair that is associated with a toxic mind and a toxic body. If I can give someone a lifeline to pull them out of their bondages then all the time, resources, and research has been worth pouring into this book. 😊

2. Where did your research take you while writing this book?
First, I learned the scientific research confirmed the Bible. I love when science proves what God already gave us in the scriptures. I go into details in the book on these findings. The research also confirmed what I have lived through…that our bodies are listening to our minds. The CDC, center for disease control reports that 80% of all sickness has a “stressor” behind it. If we can heal the mind then there is an 80% chance that we can heal the body!

3. What authors influenced you the most while writing about this topic?
The Author that impacted me the most while writing this book was, Dr. Caroline Leaf.

4. What demographic do you think this book will appeal to the most?
This book was written to those suffering from; depression, anxiety, guilt, anger, stress, a broken heart. This project appeals to both men and women, young and old.

5. What drew you to write non-fiction verses fiction?
Both Fiction and Non-Fiction can be inspirational. In this case I felt non-fiction would be the best tool to communicate how to recover from toxic emotions and restore physical and mental health.

Bonus; I would like to share two of my favorite quotes;

"Self-worth is not created, it’s discovered."

"Let food be your medicine so medicine doesn’t have to be your food."

More from Luann

SOUL MEND was written to break people out of their emotional chains! I know first hand what such things as anxiety, strife, guilt, and unforgiveness feel like. I know first hand how devastating these emotions can be on the physical body. After walking through some of these issues and recovering from a debilitating diagnosis I decided it was time to go back to school, get my counseling degree, and help other people!

In SOUL MEND I cover the three sources of negative thinking and how they impact our emotional and physical health. There are chapters on; a broken heart, stress, guilt, self-reproach, anxiety, and anger/bitterness. Each chapter contains study questions to help the reader identity and heal from toxic emotions. The book ends on a uplifting and encouraging note on how God created you to walk in His destiny and His goodness. There is always a purpose in your pain and the Bible is clear that what the enemy meant for evil God promises to turn around for God when we seek Him (Genesis 50:20, Romans 8:28). I am excited to go on this journey with you and help you discover the healing and destiny that awaits you

Luann Dunnuck

Luann Dunnuck is a conference speaker, author, and counselor. She has a heart for those who are seeking emotional wholeness and spiritual health. Luann earned her master’s degree in Christian counseling and a doctorate in theology, and is a licensed minister with the Assemblies of God.
Her message of hope and restoration has been heard on radio and television—including Words to Live By, produced by RBC Ministries, and Crossroads Magazine. She and her husband, Robert, have three grown children.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Luann is giving away a hard copy of her
book SOUL MEND, and a $25 gift card to Barnes and Noble!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!

https://promosimple.com/ps/ee22/soul-mend-celebration-tour-giveaway

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Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, November 7
Mary Hake, November 8
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 9
Artistic Nobody, November 10 (Author Interview)
Library Lady’s Kid Lit, November 11
Texas Book-aholic, November 12
janicesbookreviews, November 13
Tell Tale Book Reviews, November 14 (Author Interview)
For the Love of Literature, November 15
BookofRuthAnn, November 16
A Reader’s Brain, November 17
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 18
Stephanie’s LIfe of Determination, November 18
My Devotional Thoughts, November 19 (Author Interview)
Inklings and notions, November 20

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Interview with Laine

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Interview with Anita Higman about ​A Love Most Precious

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Interview with Dr. Joelle

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Excerpt from Celtic Wanderings

Dear Father, allow your words and your laws to light the depths of my heart. Help me to remember to meditate​on these words as the day comes to a close. Amen.

Why does Cindy Thomson recommend reading the devotionals ​in her book, Celtic Wanderings, in the evenings?

The Case For Heaven exclusively on Pure Flix ​starting July 15th!

It's Time For A Giveaway!

BUY TICKETS now to see The Homeschool Awakening in theaters nationwide June 13 & 14!

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​The Wonder Of Creation: 100 More Devotions About God & Science by Louie Giglio with Tama Fortner (Nicola Anderson, illustrator)

As kids dive into this awe-inspiring devotional, ​they'll be amazed at the many wonders God has made!

It's Time For A Giveaway!

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The Neglected C.S. Lewisby Mark Neal & Jerry Root

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Interview with Luann

"Self-worth is not created, it’s discovered."

"Let food be your medicine so medicine doesn’t have to be your food."

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Interview with Anita Higman about
A Love Most Precious

Dear Father, allow your words and your laws to light the depths of my heart. Help me to remember to meditate
on these words as the day comes to a close. Amen.

Why does Cindy Thomson recommend reading the devotionals
in her book, Celtic Wanderings, in the evenings?

The Case For Heaven exclusively on Pure Flix
starting July 15th!

BUY TICKETS now to see The Homeschool
Awakening in theaters nationwide June 13 & 14!

The Wonder Of Creation:
100 More Devotions About God & Science
by Louie Giglio with Tama Fortner (Nicola Anderson, illustrator)

As kids dive into this awe-inspiring devotional,
they'll be amazed at the many wonders God has made!

The Neglected C.S. Lewis
by Mark Neal & Jerry Root