Book Review~Redeeming Ruth

ISBN: 1619709074 | ISBN-13: 9781619709072 | List Price: $19.95 | Format: Hardcover | Page Count: 200 

About the Book: 
Redeeming Ruth is the inspirational, true story of an abandoned baby, a devastating diagnosis, and the way God loves broken, hurting people through us--even though we may be broken and hurt, too.

When Meadow met her, Ruth was a sixteen-month-old child that some church friends were hosting from an orphanage in Uganda. She had cerebral palsy and was so weak she couldn't lift her head. Meadow had always felt a call to adopt, but was this what God meant? Part family drama, part travel adventure, and part memoir, Redeeming Ruth is a heartwarming, against-all-odds story about the most unlikely pairing of a typical American family and a physically challenged orphaned girl from Uganda. Much more than an adoption story, this book explores what happens when we sacrificially reach out and share God's love with others.

Ruth's story will inspire families considering adoption, people raising or teaching children with special needs, caregivers, and those grieving the loss of a loved one, ministering to people with disabilities, or striving to serve God despite their own wounded hearts and broken dreams.

About the Author

 Meadow Rue Merrill is an award-winning journalist who has spent the following eight years corresponding for The Boston Globe and writing for The New York Times, Harvard University, and The Boston Sunday Globe Magazine. She has regular columns with The Portland Press Herald and Down East magazine.
Connect with the author:
Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook

What I Thought: 
Adoption is near and dear to my heart, as I was adopted and my youngest son was adopted as well. We were both domestic adoptions through foster care, so very different situations than the Merrill's. I cannot imagine traveling to a foreign country to adopt your child.

Redeeming Ruth is broken down into a prologue, 21 chapters, epilogue, author's note, author's thanks, readers guide, notes, and photographs. I thought the readers guide was a wonderful resource, whether you read the book alone or as a group. For each chapter, there is a bible scripture, questions for discussion, and application. The photos were just wonderful, eight pages of full-color images that melted my heart. 





What an amazing family the Merrills are! They did what God led them to do, period. More of us need to follow His lead, even when its so incredibly hard. Once I picked Redeeming Ruth up, I couldn't put it down. I just had to know what happened to this sweet baby and her new family. You know that saying "It takes a village"? The adoption and life of Ruth is a perfect example of that. So many wonderful friends and family did so much to help this family, some even strangers! The author is so honest and raw with her feelings through the years.

After we adopted our son from foster care at three years old, so many people praised us and said how lucky he was, and we still hear that even with him being 14 years old now!  I understand why people say these things, but once you have adopted a child you know that it is the other way around. How blessed am I to have this child? He has brought such joy to my life, and I have learned so much from him. He has some severe learning disabilities and health problems (not life threatening), and he teaches us so much with his strength and determination. I'm sure that's the same way the Merrills feel-they were so blessed for their time with Ruth. Although it appeared they were doing everything for Ruth, she was giving them all so much!

Do yourself a favor and read Redeeming Ruth-it is a wonderful story of love. All personal proceeds from this book  benefit orphans and people with disabilities in Uganda. Right now, Redeeming Ruth is half off at Christian Book Distributors: http://uroomtech.christianbook.com/redeeming-everything-life-takes-love-restores/meadow-merrill/9781619709072/pd/709072  

If adoption or foster care isn't for you, there are other ways you can make a difference! In the author's notes section at the back of the book are other ways you can help.



I received a free copy of this book to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew

Book Review~Mississippi Nights

About the Book: 
From the back cover: Two brothers, one death-the bond of brotherhood faces its greatest challenge against resentment and guilt.

Can the love between two brothers eventually win against pain and guilt?

When firefighter David Boyette's fiancee perishes in a car fire, he blames his brother, Sgt. Jeremy Boyette, for her death.

Three years later, David returns home with a dark and devastating secret. With the help of family, a woman's love, and a small child's devotion, can David overcome insurmountable odds as he and Jeremy face the bitterness that enslaves him?

Together the brothers must decide if the bond of brotherhood is stronger than resentment and hate.


About the Author: 
D.M. Webb (Daphne Self), a transplant from Mississippi who fell in love with Iowa, spends her days writing, biking, antiquing, and planning adventures with her husband and sons. Having always dreamed of being a writer she pursues this dream with only one goal in mind: To Glorify His Name. D.M. not only writes, but she's an avid reader who devours books in many genres. Catch some of her latest reviews at  www.rebelbookreviews.blogspot.com. Beyond her writing and reading, she also volunteers as a judge for the Genesis Contest and Carols Awards through American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW).​
Connect with Daphne at:
Author Website: http://authordmwebb.weebly.com/
Author FB page link is https://www.facebook.com/WebbDM
Twitter page link is http://twitter.com/DaphMichele
Amazon Page link is  http://www.amazon.com/D.-M.-Webb/e/B007D8TXVO/

What I Thought:  
Mississippi Nights is a good, clean story that kept my attention throughout the 383 pages. The Boyette family is a strong Christian family dealing with issues families have to deal with. The two sons are a firefighter and police officer, and so they come into contact during work as well as family time. The tension between the boys is coming to a head, stemming from the death of David's wife years ago. David's hidden alcoholism is quickly destroying him, just when he starts dating Maggie, a sweet local girl who is a positive influence on him. 

All of the characters were very relateable, and I enjoyed how the strength of faith, family and community was focused on. 

You can purchase your own copy of Mississippi Nights in Kindle or Softcover from Amazon.


I received a free copy of this book to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew

Product Review~Bible Learning Cards (Preschool)

Its never too early to start learning! These Preschool Bible Learning Cards are a wonderful way to start your little ones learning the word of God. There are twenty 5 x 7 flashcards in each boxed set. The flashcards are sturdy, glossy, and have bright colored illustrations to catch your toddler's eye. Each card has a bible verse and a discussion starter, with pictures on both sides of the card.

The cards are color-coded into four categories, with a handy ring clip to keep them together.  The categories included in the preschool set are: Love, Play, Learn, and Grow. My Grandson, 4, really has been enjoying looking at the cards and talking about them.

There are two other sets of Bible Learning Cards for children age 4-11 and 6-13. They are Children's Cards (4-11) and Courage and Comfort Cards (6-13).

Here is a video with more information:






Company Bio:

Words2remember4kids is based on the idea of getting children and parents to learn encouraging, comforting and classic Bible verses through illustrations and discussion starters on large flash cards. These cards are great for every day use around the house and in the car. We are a small company, with Vicky Enright as the illustrator, and Kristen Smith, who has her Masters of Divinity who helps with the verses and discussion starters. Our company is located in the Boston area.

Website: http://www.words2remember4kids.com/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/words4kids

 

You can order your own set of Bible Learning Cards at the website   http://www.words2remember4kids.com/

 

*Disclosure 
I received a free copy of this product to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.

Book Review~Dance With Jesus:From Grief to Grace

About the Book: 

ISBN: 978-1-63047-308-2 I  List Price $9.99 i  Format: eBook I Page Count  130
ISBN: 978-1-63047-307-5 I  List Price $12.99 I  Format: Paperback I Page Count 130
ISBN: 978-1-63047-309-9 I List Price $34.99 I Format: Hardcover I Page Count 130

Grief hits each one of us and can come from so many difference directions…

Have you lost someone dear to you?  A brother, sister, parent, grandparent, family member, friend or a child?  A relationship?  A body part to cancer or an accident?  Do you want to experience the joy of moving from broken to blessed?  From GRIEF TO GRACE?  Do you want God to take your hand and teach you how to dance…with Jesus?  Yes? Then devour the words in Dance With Jesus: From Grief to Grace!  Expect to laugh through the tears and experience a deepening of your faith.

About the Author: 
 
Susan B Mead is a woman in AWE of God and how much He loves each one of us. Her desire - share stories of hope so we can see God's hand at work in our lives. Dance With Jesus: From Grief to Grace was written as her answer to "what does God want you to do right now?" in the Experiencing God Bible Study.

Susan spent 22+ years with Johnson & Johnson prior to losing her youngest son. She realized that things get broken, discarded or replaced, yet people matter. She chose to retire early to make time for the people who matter most to her, including you, a dear reader. 

Susan's credentials include BS, MT(ASCP), MBA and IFOC Sr. Ordained Chaplain. She holds certification from the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) for Individual Grief, Group Grief and Grief following Trauma.
To learn more about Susan and her writing, visit her at . . .

Author Website: www.SusanBMead.com
Book Website: www.DanceWithJesus.com 
Twitter:  @susanbmead
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorsusanbmead
LinkedIn:   SusanMead1
Amazon: Amazon.com/author/susanbmead
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC78rFDV420LtJDNWkit9-vA

What I Thought: 


When I received Dance With Jesus: From Grief to Grace, I must admit I was surprised.  I expected a bigger, wordier book.  Grief is a big issue, and so I guess I expected a big book.  But after reading the book, I realized that people in the midst of grief cannot handle a big book, with long chapters.
  

Dance With Jesus is broken up into 22 chapters, each short at only a few pages, and some with not many words on them. It works.  The author, who lost her son Kyle, shared her story, her thoughts throughout that time, and her grief.  It isn't all sad-there are plenty of uplifting, humorous stories. I applaud the author for opening up her deepest feelings to help others.  There are scripture verses throughout the book.




I have not lost someone close to me, but have watched friends who have.  The heartache is overwhelming, and I felt like I wish I could do more. Now I have this resource to pass on when needed.  Join Susan Mead in the dance at www.DanceWithJesus.com


 Order your copy of Dance With Jesus: From Grief to Grace online at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, BAM, Powell Books or look for it soon at your local Christian book store. 


*Disclosure:   I received a free copy of this book to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.

Product Review~Memory Cross

Memory Cross cards are origami cards that share a message.  There are Bible Memory Cards, Bible Story Cards, Outreach Tracts, Coloring Cards, Wedding Announcements, Health Education and more!  I received a sampling of different Memory Cross Cards in different applications and sizes:

Here is a video showing how the Memory Cross cards work:





These Memory Cross cards are awesome!  My entire family, from children to adults, had so much fun with them!  We all enjoyed opening each one, and were so fascinated and impressed with the impact these cards can make!  Perfect for Sunday School, handing out, gifts, crafts for kids, and on and on!  My daughter, who is 20, loved the wedding Memory Cross Cards and thinks they would make perfect 'Save the Date' cards for when she gets married some day.  My son, who goes to a private Christian School, was excited to take the samples to his school to show the other kids and teachers. Everyone was very impressed and enthusiastic about Memory Cross cards!

For More Information:

Website: http://store.memorycross.com/
Blog: http://blog.memorycross.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MemoryCross1
Twitter: http://twitter.com/MemoryCross1
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/MemoryCross/pins/follow/?guid=bVSx0CQHggNg-0
Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8D65D1A0F7CF0ED1

 

 *Disclosure:   I received a free copy of this Product to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.

Book Review~Halfa Moon

ISBN: 978-1-4582-1185-9 | List Price: $17.99 | Format: Softcover | Page Count: 243
ISBN: 978-1-4582-1184-2| List Price: $35.99 | Format: Hardcover | Page Count: 243
ISBN: 978-1-4582-1183-5 | List Price: $3.99 | Format: eBook Page Count: 243

About the Book:  Halfa Moon is the story of Meg Randallman, starting when she is a young child and tragedy strikes her family. A sudden move, a new father, and an abusive, neglectful mother are just a few of the things Meg has to deal with as she is growing up. Thankfully, she has a warm, loving relationship with her step-grandmother, who teaches her everything she needs to know about life and love. 

Meg lives a life of affluence, and as a child genius, graduates High School at only 15 years old.  She goes on to graduate from a top college, and gets a job at "the Lab".  She quickly is in a dangerous position, with a murderer on the loose wanting information she has access to. Will Meg be targeted next?  Will she ever find her father, who she was taken from all those years ago?








My Thoughts: Halfa Moon is a great story, full of mystery, danger, and a little romance. There was a lot going on in the story lines of this book, but not too much that I got confused. The story is written in first person from the viewpoint of Meg herself, which I liked. There are many different relationships going on in the story, some very dysfunctional and others warm and loving.  

Halfa Moon is a perfect book if you are looking for a clean, Christian read. It is hard to put down and keeps you guessing until the very end. 

About the Author:  

Joan Bannan is a native Californian, who still lives in Northern California. She was born Joan Freiburghouse in Modesto. Then when she turned eighteen, she became Joan Mangini for the next twenty-four years. When she wrote her first book she changed her last name to Bannan -- her grandmother's maiden name. She thought her mother's maiden name was too boring and that Freiburghouse would not fit on book covers.

Joan is a Christian. Her faith influences her writing, but she does not consider herself an evangelist nor does she feel called to explain her faith to her readers. However, her faith greatly influences her characters and the theme of each novel. She says, "I can't help it. I believe the world that is not seen is the real world. I allow my characters to be aided by divine intervention that is considered coincidence in the visible world. Christian friends call this type of coincidence, "a God thing.'"

There are two frequently asked questions that Joan is asked: "Are your novels based on true stories?" and "How do you write?"

Her stories are based on true stories and true characters, but they are greatly embellished by her imagination. Many of her characters are inspired by combining the personalities of more than one person.

Joan's novel writing is "whenever I have a moment," and "primarily a Pantser," though she has been whipped into shape by instructors to create basic novel structure before she ventures too far into each story. A Panster is a title used by writing instructors to describe an author who writes, "by the seat of her pants," rather than by a detailed outline. Joan finds she needs to enter a scene before she can imagine what needs to be there, what her characters will say to each other, and discover who else will show up.

 Connect with Joan:

• Visit her website at http://just-joan.com 
• Follow her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/justjoanbannan

• You can contact Joan on Twitter: @justjoanbannan

You can purchase your copy of Halfa Moon at:

•  Abbott Press Hardcover, and Softcover, and eBook
• Amazon.com Hardcover, softcover, and Kindle
• Barnes and Noble Hardcover, paperback, and Nook Book

 *Disclosure:   I received a free copy of this book/Ebook/Product to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.

Book Review~When Chicks Hatch

If you're looking for a great summer read, look no further-When Chicks Hatch, by author Heather Randall, is it! This novel includes the stories of five women, all intertwined.  They are regular women, like you or me, going through crisis in their lives.  The problems they are facing are ones we could face-pregnancy out of wedlock, surrogacy, infidelity, loss of a child, and troubled marriage. This is Christian fiction, so it is clean, but deals with mature issues. Follow the women as they deal with struggles in their lives, learning to live with faith and strength.

I enjoyed reading When Chicks Hatch from start to finish.  It was a quick read-there was so much going on I didn't want to stop reading! I must admit to being confused a few times in the very beginning, as there are so many characters and stories going on.  Once I got everyone straight, it was a delight to read.  Author Heather Randall does an excellent job of creating relatable characters with interesting story lines. I look forward to reading more in this series, Chicks of Corbin Bridge.

You can purchase When Chicks Hatch on Amazon and on the author's website.

Connect with author Heather Randall:


Website: http://www.heatherrandall.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeatherRandallBooks

Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/CWAreviewCrew/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeatherMRandall
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/pub/heather-randall/19/8bb/b61
Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/+HeatherRandallCWA/posts
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/heathermrandall/
Instagram: instagram.com/cwaheather
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11475687-when-chicks-hatch?ref=atw

*Disclosure:   I received a free copy of this book/Ebook/Product to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.

Book Review~So Much The Better

So Much The Better, by author Megan Means, is a chapter book written for the upper elementary age readers.  It is the story of Ari the lion cub, who is safe and secure at home in the mountains with his pride.  One day, the Black Wind comes and Ari suddenly finds himself lost, away from his peaceful home.  Ari is scared and doesn't know what to do. 

A majestic eagle named Eliezer appears and offers advice to Ari.  This begins a long journey that takes Ari through the forest, where he meets many creatures.  Each of these creatures impact his journey and he learns many important life lessons. 

What I Thought: My son Chad (12) and I read So Much The Better together.  We read one chapter a night, and we both enjoyed the story very much!  Chad loves animals, so this was a perfect story for him.  This story is full of valuable life lessons and virtues.  The author did  a great job describing the surroundings beautifully.  The animal characters are all very endearing.  Chad enjoyed the book so much that he has had many dreams about the characters. 

The author has created a free curriculum companion on her website (link below), containing 21 lessons on character building related to the book. 

To learn more about So Much The Better and author Megan Means:
Megan Means' Website:  http://www.meganmeansauthor.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SoMuchTheBetter
Twitter:  https://twitter.com/Megan_Means

You can purchase So Much The Better at Amazon. and Barnes and Noble.


Disclosure:  I received a free copy of this book/Ebook/Product to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.

Product Review~Sue Hooley's 2015 Daily Planner

As part of the CWA Review Crew, I had the opportunity to try out Sue Hooley's Daily Planner.  What was really nice was the crew got two planners-the 2014 version to use now, and the 2015 version for next year.  We also had plenty of time to really use this planner-we received them at the beginning of summer, so I've been using the planner for just about four months now! 

This Daily Planner is geared toward homemakers.  We homemakers are busy!!  There is always something to do, and something going on.  If I didn't write things down, I'd be lost.  I've tried many different ways to stay organized in the past, but always ended up going back to the hanging calendar on the wall.  Those little squares on the hanging calendars do NOT have enough room for a busy family to squeeze in everything, believe me!  So, I was ready for a change. 

Sue Hooley's Daily Planner is 6"x9" and spiral bound, making it perfect for grabbing and sticking in your bag on the go.  It has a beautiful full-color glossy picture on the front and back covers, with more pretty floral pictures throughout the planner.  There are scriptures and quotes throughout as well.  The back cover has a pocket which is great for stashing things like appointment reminder cards.

FEATURES:

Weekly Layout

• Two-page spread with entries for each day
• Menu planning
• To-do list

Monthly Calendar

• Two-page month view

Year Calendars

• 2015 and 2016 calendars with place for notations

Shopping List

• Perforated shopping list

Task List and Project & Events Sections

• Untitled pages for you to customize for your own duties and ideas

Information

• Short-term information that is relevant to 2015

What I Thought:

First of all, I love this planner.  It is what I have been needing for a long time!  Some of my favorite features are the Year Calendars and the Weekly Layout.  The Year Calendar section has the current and next year, with boxes for each month in the year.  That way, if you make an appointment for 2016, but don't have your 2016 planner yet, you can jot it down in the appropriate month and then transfer it over to your 2016 planner at the end of the year. 

The Weekly Layout (above) is awesome!  On the tasks list I jot down dinner ideas/menus, things I need to get done that week that don't have a specific day they need to get done, prayer requests and anything else I need to remember!  Then there is plenty of room for each day of the week to make notes of appointments, etc. 

Meet Sue Hooley:

 The Daily Planner was designed by Sue, wife of Dan for 24 years and mother to six lovely children, two girls and four boys ages 5-21. The planner was developed after several years of motherhood and homemaking. Sue understood that a homemaker's day can rarely be scheduled and structured the same as the one before – not every task can fit neatly into the time-slot allotted by other planners. Since her first publication in 2010, thousands of homemakers have benefited from the daily planner.

Purchasing Information:

You can order your own copy of Sue Hooley's 2015 Daily Planner at Homemaker's Friend.  It is very affordable! 

I received a free copy of this planner to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.

Book Review~9 Traits of a Life-Giving Mom

I recently read the ebook 9 Traits of a Life-Giving Mom: Replacing My Worst with God's Best by Sue Detweiler.  It was such a blessing!  Even though I've been at this parenting thing for almost 23 years,  and now a Grandparent, I'm certainly not perfect.  I make mistakes.  This book will help you feel okay when you blow it as a parent, and guide you back on track.

There are 11 chapters, covering 9 traits: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self Control.  Each chapter is full of personal stories, wisdom, inspiration, and plenty of scripture.  There is also prayer at the end of each chapter focused on that chapter's trait. 

There is a Bible Study that goes along with the chapters, composed of 11 lessons.  Each lesson has a woman's personal story, Reflection Questions, and Group Discussion.  At the end of the book are additional resources. 

9 Traits of a Life-Giving Mom was definitely a blessing to me.  We can all use a little (or big) reminder of the amazing job God has entrusted us with in raising our children. The author also reminds us to not beat ourselves up-that we are not perfect, and we should not be striving to be Supermom.  This book would be great for Moms with children of any age to read. 



Connect with author Sue Detweiler on her website , Facebook, Twitter , and Linked In.  9 Traits of a Life Giving Mom is available at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

*Disclosure: I received a copy of this ebook free from Christian Women Affiliate in exchange for my honest review. 

Book Review~Faith: Joseph's Story by Sandra Lea Hardage

I've always enjoyed studying individual people from the Bible in-depth.  I was immediately drawn to the beautifully illustrated cover of Faith: Joseph's Story, A Novel and Christian Bible Study by Sandra Lea Hardage.  Joseph's story is one of perseverance through horrible experiences.  At the tender age of 17, Joseph was hated by his brothers and sold into slavery.  Later, he was falsely accused of a crime and put in prison.  Through it all, he remained faithful to God's plan for his life and emerged victorious.  What a great lesson for us all.

Faith Joseph's Story is written from Joseph's point of view, as if her were narrating.  I really enjoyed that it was written this way! There are nine chapters after the Preface, Acknowledgements, and Introduction:
Chapter 1: Family Life
Chapter 2: Sold into Slavery
Chapter 3: In Potiphar's House
Chapter 4: Prison Life
Chapter 5: Pharaoh's Dream
Chapter 6: Joseph and His Brothers
Chapter 7: Back to Egypt
Chapter 8: The Final Test
Chapter 9: Blessings and Forgiveness

The remainder of the book is packed with great information: an Epilogue, Becoming a Christian, a 75-page Bible Study with a Leader's Guide, and Joseph's Story Poem. 

Learn more about author Sandra Lea Hardage at http://sandrahardage.com/.  She can also be found on Facebook and Twitter.  She was sweet enough to sign my book personally, and sent me a very nice note that I appreciated. 

You can purchase your own copy of Faith Joseph's Story at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

*Disclosure: I received this book free in exchange for my honest review.  All opinions are my own.

Book Review~12 Steps to Becoming a More Organized Woman

12 Steps To Becoming A More Organized Woman: Practical Tips For Managing Your Home And Your Family, by Lane P. Jordan, is updated and revised from her original book that was published in the 1990s.  With all the technological changes in recent years, I can see why this update was necessary!

12 Steps To Becoming A More Organized Woman is not just your typical organization book.  It's not just how to organize your pantry or your bedroom; it's how to organize your priorities, your family, your life.  All of this information is from a biblical perspective. 

Each 'step' in the book is it's own  chapter.  The topics cover marriage, children, health, and more.  Each step begins with a bible verse, and ends with suggestions for further refection and personal application.  If you are striving towards the Proverbs 31 woman, this book is for you!

I personally gained a lot of insight from reading 12 Steps To Becoming A More Organized Woman, and it will be a 'keeper' on my bookshelf, meaning I will go back and read it again and again.  The information inside the book was much deeper and spiritual than I expected.  It is not just dry information, it is advice that is both practical and leads to soul-searching. 

To learn more about 12 Steps To Becoming A More Organized Woman:

*Author's website: http://www.lanejordanministries.com/
*Author's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lane-Jordan-Ministries/320302149964
*Author's Twitter: https://twitter.com/lane_Jordan

You can purchase 12 Steps To Becoming A More Organized Woman at Christian Book Distributors.


I received a free copy of this book to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.

Book Review~He Rejoices Over Me

I think it is every parent's worst nightmare to lose a child.  I wonder how you can get through such a tragedy.  Nicholas Skula, Jr.  and his family know this nightmare.  He has written a book, He Rejoices over Me: A Story of the Life, Lessons, and Love of Crystal Marie Skula.

Crystal Skula died of cancer at 13 years old, after fighting brain cancer for three years.  In this book, her father shares stories from her life, as well as the story of her death and the family's grief afterward.  Through these stories, I definitely got a sense of Crystal being a sweet but strong girl, even when she was very young. She was determined in everything she did,, and she loved God.  Her entire family loved God, and He gave Crystal the strength to courageously endure horrible treatments for her cancer.

Crystal touched many people in her life, and her family has continued touching people in her memory.  Thanks to their strong faith, they were able to survive this tragedy with grace and strength, focusing on the positive of Crystal being with Jesus now.  I was very touched with their story.

To learn more about the Skulas and He Rejoices Over Me:
www.herejoicesoverme.com
https://twitter.com/RejoicesOverMe

Click here to purchase He Rejoices Over Me on Amazon.

 I received a free copy of this book/Ebook/Product to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.

Book Review~Pieces of Me-Life of a Recovering Dysfunctional

Pieces of Me-Life of a Recovering Dysfunctional by Diana Lynn is an autobiography that inspires its readers.  The author describes many tribulations of her life such as teenage pregnancy, divorce, single motherhood, and loss of a parent.  Through it all, and with her faith in God, she perseveres and comes out a strong, successful woman. 

I was amazed at Ms. Lynn's strength through all her trials, and also her strength in writing this book.  Putting your mistakes and troubles out there for the world to see has got to be terrifying.  But, she says herself that she wrote Pieces of Me for us, so that we will know that if she could beat the odds, we can too. 

At just 114 pages, Pieces of Me is a quick read.  The authors writing style made me feel like I was just sitting down with her as she told me her story.  The first section of the book is titled Life, and the second section is titled Lessons.  Each of these sections has several short one to two page stories, so its easy to leave off and pick up again without having to review what you were reading.  At the start of each story is a bible verse or inspirational quote. 

You can learn more about author Diana Lynn at her website and blog.  She is also available on Facebook.  To purchase Pieces of Me-Life of a Recovering Dysfunctional, visit Amazon.  It is available in both paperback and Kindle versions. 

I received a free copy of this Ebook to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.

Book Review~Are You Playing By House Rules?

I just finished reading a powerful, thought-provoking book-Are You Playing By House Rules? by Darren and Cara Grant.  This book was not at all what I expected.  It was both educational and entertaining, following a page-turning fictional story interwoven with controversial issues from our society. 

Joe is a new Christian, currently separated from his wife.  Tragedy strikes, and his world crumbles around him.  He is getting attacked from all sides, but a stranger he just met is there for him.  Robert comforts him, helps him, and educates him.  Some of the issues Robert talks to him about are hard to believe, but within the book is documentation and references for the reader to look up themselves. 

I read this book in a few days, stealing a few minutes here and there as I could, because it was so hard to put down.  I really felt like I knew the characters personally by the end, and wanted more when it ended!  I highly suggest you read Are You Playing By House Rules?  Along with entertaining  you, it will make you question some things in our society that we have always accepted. 

To learn more, go to the Author's website.  To purchase Are You Playing By House Rules, go to Amazon. 

 I received a free copy of this book/Ebook to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.

Book Review~That Summer by Jo Huddleston

That Summer, by Joe Huddleston, is Book 1 of the Caney Creek Series.  The story takes place in Tennessee around the time of the Great Depression, and spans from the late 1920s to 1950.  Jim Callaway lives with his family on their farm, and times are bleak for them.  His father abuses him, and Jim decides at 17 years old to run away to the city.

That Summer follows Jim as he learns to survive on his own, falls in love, and falls away from his faith and God.  Jim has to learn many difficult lessons along the way to finding his way back to what he knows is right.

I thoroughly enjoyed That Summer.  Ms. Huddleston did a wonderful job of developing characters that I really felt a connection with.  The storyline flowed well, and it kept my attention throughout the book.  I look forward to reading the second and third books in the series, due out later in 2013. 

For more information on the author, visit her website.  You can also find Jo Huddleston on Facebook. 

Purchase That Summer at Amazon.
ISBN-10: 1939219035 | ISBN- 13: 978-1939219039 | List Price: $14.99 Softcover, $4.99 Kindle |Format: Soft cover and Kindle | Page Count: 220

I received a free copy of this book to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.

Book Review~Neglected but Undefeated by Jonathan Burkett

Neglected But Undefeated, a true story by Jonathan Anthony Burkett, follows a young boy from Jamaica as he grows up in the USA.  A happy, carefree little boy when he left his grandparent's care in Jamaica, his life quickly became one of horrible abuse and neglect.  As he grew, this boy was abused in so many ways.  This story follows him as he grows up, how he fights for his life, and how  he tries to find love and acceptance. 

Before I agreed to read Neglected But Undefeated, I was warned that it would be a difficult book to read, due to its content.  Having cared for children who had been abused, and adopting one myself, I was interested in the author's story.  Let me tell you, the warnings were warranted.  Besides all the abuse, which is heartbreaking, there are swear words and sexual content.  This is the REAL story of the author's life, nothing is sugar-coated.  Mr. Burkett did a great job writing his story, and even though it was hard to read(have tissues ready), it was also hard to put down.  Neglected But Undefeated is definitely an inspirational story that shows God's faithfulness. 

Jonathan Burkett is a talented author, with several other books he has authored.  At the end of the book, he shares his quotes and poetry, which are amazing.  Visit the author at his website, www.jonathanburkett.com.  You can also find him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/neglectedbutundefeated .  Purchase Neglected But Undefeated at Amazon.

ISBN-10: 0985297077 | ISBN- 13: 978-0985297077 | List Price: $15.99 Softcover, $3.99 Kindle |Format: Softcover and Kindle | Page Count: 294

 I received a free copy of this Ebook to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.

Book Review~Reflections of Rosalyn, A Life of Victory

Summary: "Rosalyn is a recent widow facing life alone for the first time in over forty years. She spends time looking back at her life as a young girl, Rosie, and how each episode in her life was a stepping stone to get her where she is today. 

Rosie has a tumultuous childhood and a terrible relationship with her self-centered mother. As a teenager she faces an unplanned pregnancy. Her decision about that pregnancy will shape the decisions she must make for the rest of her life. The first decision she makes is to leave home. She finds work in an assisted living facility, which is the root of many comical interactions. 

The book is a series of flashbacks with events of today reminding Rosalyn of a time in her earlier life as Rosie. This is a book of laughter and tears. There were many times when I, as the author, had to stop writing and compose myself before I could continue. There were just as many when I actually laughed aloud as my characters interacted. 

This is a story that grew from my heart. It is a story of victory. Rosie, the teenager, must overcome many obstacles in her life to become Rosalyn, the woman."

What I Thought: I enjoyed reading Reflections of Rosalyn by Theresa Franklin.  It was a very emotional story, and I quickly became engaged in the story and characters.  Ms. Franklin wrote it with the main character, Rosalyn, having flashbacks of events of her life, which I could see possibly getting confusing for the reader, but I thought she did a good job of making those transitions clear.  It was heartbreaking to read of someone having such a rough, love-less childhood, but it did make Rosie in to the person she became.  

Click here to purchase Reflections of Rosalyn, A Life of Victory

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this Ebook to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.

Final Landing-T.R.I.P.

We've come in for a landing!!  This is our final review of the T.R.I.P. program.  To recap, Targeted Reading Improvement Program is an affordable ($19.99) reading program on CD-Rom.  It consists of 20 lessons targeted to help kids who suffer from ADD, ADHD, Dyslexia, and other special needs.  Each lesson consists of three parts: Word Lists, Flashing Practice, and Story Cards.  There is also an introductory instructional video with step-by-step instructions.

T.R.I.P. was created by Walter C. Waid and Jordan H. Price, who have a combined total of 40 years experience working with special needs, ADD, ADHD, Dyslexic and special ed students.

We were very impressed with this program.  Chad has dyslexia, and I believe the T.R.I.P. program helped him improve in memory, attentiveness, reading, and spelling.  For only $19.99, I think that is incredible!  Chad's favorite part of the program was the Flashing Practice, and his only complaint was that the audio part of the Story Cards was too slow. I understand the need for the speaking to be slow for the very beginning readers.  It would be great if that part could be individually adjusted for speed like the Flashing Practice.  I definitely recommend this program, and hope the creators of T.R.I.P. come out with more products!

Links:
T.R.I.P. on Facebook
Purchase T.R.I.P. at www.buytripnow.com
Twitter: @trip_community

Read my past T.R.I.P updates:
Introduction to T.R.I.P.
Update #1
Update #2
Update #3

*Disclosure: I received a free copy of T.R.I.P. to review.  I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way.  The opinions I have expressed are my own.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.  I am part of the CWA Review Crew.

T.R.I.P. Update #3

In January Chad and I began reviewing T.R.I.P., Targeted Reading Improvement for Kids.  If you haven't read my past posts about this program and want the basics and our experience so far, here are the links to my posts:

Introductory Post
Update #1
Update #2

We are plugging along with our lessons.  Due to illness and a family emergency, we didn't get as many lessons done as I had planned on.  The lessons we did since the last update have gone well.  As before, Chad loves the flashing practice.  He doesn't mind the other parts of the lesson, that flashing practice is just his favorite part.  I believe his reading is continuing to improve, as well as his memory.  I can't believe this is our last update before we post our final thoughts on the T.R.I.P. program.  Tune in next week for the final update!

*Disclosure: I received this program free of charge as part of the CWA Review Crew. All opinions are my own.