If He Had Not Come By David Nicholson

This is an amazing book! Especially around Christmas! This is one of our family favorite Christmas stories that we will read year after year. It's a tradition now for us.
This book gives the question what would happen if Jesus hadn't come? And there are some amazing discussion questions to explore that more.
It is a great book to read as a family, to read in church to a Sunday school class, etc. The message is fantastic, the story flows so well.
A little boy is getting ready for Christmas and looking forward to the presents he hopes to get. He reads the bible before bed with his father, and goes to bed thinking of what they read. Then he wakes up and there is no Christmas, there are no places to help people in need, and there are rude people all around. He is so lost in this new world and cannot understand what happened?
This story shows so many great points about Christmas and Jesus, and the NEED for Jesus. A few great points are that Christmas isn't just about presents, what would happen to our world if there was no Jesus and no forgiveness for our sins? It really got my children thinking on this, and thinking how the entire world would be if things were changed like this. This story captured their attention and had them asking all sorts of questions throughout. They didn't once lose interest, and fully enjoyed this story. I highly recommend it to families, and to put it on your Christmas book list.


I rate this book:: 5/5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟


This book is available on Amazon.


Click here to see my review on Goodreads.



::Product Description::

• Age Range: 4 - 12 years
• Grade Level: 1 - 2
• Hardcover: 40 pages
• Publisher: Westbow Press (May 16, 2014)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1490818103
• ISBN-13: 978-1490818108
• Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 0.4 x 11 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.6 ounces

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book as a BookLook member in exchange for my unbiased review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

Before I Saw You

::From the back of the book::
Folks are dying fast as the ash trees in the southern Indiana town ravaged by the heroin epidemic, where Jaycee Givens lives with nothing more than a thread of hope and a quirky neighbor, Sudie, who rescues injured wildlife. After a tragedy leaves her mother in prison, Jaycee is carrying grief and an unplanned pregnancy she conceals because she trusts no one, including the kind and handsome Gabe, who is new to town and to the local diner where she works.

Dividing her time between the diner and Sudie’s place, Jaycee nurses her broken heart among a collection of unlikely friends who are the closest thing to family that she has. Eventually, she realizes she can’t hide her pregnancy any longer―not even from the baby’s abusive father, who is furious when he finds out. The choices she must make for the safety of her unborn child threaten to derail any chance she ever had for hope and redemption. Ultimately, Jaycee must decide whether the truest form of love means hanging on or letting go.


::My Thoughts::
Gripping, heart wrenching, emotional, angry, happy, breathless...
Those were just a few descriptions of how you will feel when reading this book. Honestly this book took me on an emotional roller coaster.
This book came in the perfect year because things like drugs, abuse, poverty, etc., that is all here and now. Right in our day and age. I think readers will definitely be able to appreciate that this book describes very real life in some areas!
Drugs are a very real epidemic in the world today. Sadly there are also women living within these worlds unable to get out even if they do not do the drugs themselves. Children living with parents who put drugs first, unimaginable tragedies happening because drugs are coming before children, young men and women that live in drug filled neighborhoods and cannot move due to income issues, and it is a sad but harsh truth in the world today.
Jaycee is an extremely strong character. I felt her pain so much while reading this book. At times my heart felt so heavy for her. Even though Jaycee is a fictional character the author brings her to life, and I believe there are probably some women out there today that can relate to Jaycee. Jaycee led a very hard life and seen nothing much but tragedy. She forged ahead on her own and did everything she could to keep on the right path. Growing up with a mother who put drugs ahead of her own children, losing a brother whom she loved with all her heart, getting into a relationship to feel love but only getting abuse in turn, and then having her life turned upside down when she realizes she is pregnant by a highly dangerous man.
Thank goodness for Gabe. I believe he balanced this book out nicely, and honestly it shows that sometimes people come into our lives who may help us tremendously. People we wouldn't expect to have, but that are really God sent. They come into our lives for a reason. I believe Gabe was definitely that person to Jaycee. I also love the fact that Gabe and Jaycee are two totally different people with completely different backgrounds and it shows that you cannot judge someones character by their looks or upbringing.
This is truly a book about redemption, salvation, and honestly TRUST in God. I could not figure out what would happen in this novel next. This is not an easy read honestly. It was hard to get through some parts because at times I wanted to leap into the pages and shake some sense into some of these characters, and ask what was wrong with them??? There are other times I wanted to just wrap some of the characters in a hug. That's how well written these characters are. They come to life within the pages.
And despite everything Jaycee had been through she showed amazing courage and selfless love.
I highly recommend this book, and I appreciate the raw honesty this book brings. Even though this is a fictional book it deals with very real issues in the world today.




::My Rating::
5/5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟



This book is available on Amazon


Click here to see my review on Goodreads



::Product Details::

• Paperback: 400 pages
• Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. (June 5, 2018)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1496409566
• ISBN-13: 978-1496409560
• Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 0.9 x 8.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 11.2 ounces

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my unbiased review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

Lone Witness - Atlanta Justice by Rachel Dylan

::From the back cover of the book::
She's the Only Witness to a Brutal Crime. Now She Can't Outrun the Target on Her Back.
Prosecutor Sophie Dawson has taken a new role at the Fulton County DA's office, and her first case involves a local bank employee who may be cheating customers. She's determined to bring justice to those who've lost their savings . . . but her life is turned upside down when she becomes the only witness to a double homicide involving a vengeful gang. 

With her life at risk, friends and family convince her that she needs protection, and private security guard Cooper Knight is hired as a bodyguard. But as threats escalate, neither Cooper nor Sophie knows whom they can trust. 

Unwilling to back down on either case, Sophie pursues the truth at any cost. But her bank litigation gets more complicated by the day, and the gang will stop at nothing to keep her from taking the stand. With all sides closing in, steadfast Cooper is the only man she can lean on. But drawing close may be the distraction that costs both of their lives. 


::My Thoughts::
I love the legal suspense in this book. It was gripping, and very interesting. I love how Sophie is ready to make a difference and dive right into work. However, when she finds herself in a situation where she can no longer safely carry out her own daily tasks she gets a body guard named Cooper. After witnessing a double homicide she has to be prepared to carry out her job as needed, but also be prepared as a witness.
I would definitely say that this book is a fast paced suspenseful novel. There is romance, but the suspense will have to turning the pages faster than you can read them to find out what will happen next. If you like suspense books with romance thrown in then you should definitely give this book a try. You won't regret it. I will definitely be looking into other books in this series, and looking for more from this author.



::My Rating:: 5/5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟


This book is available on Amazon


Click here to see my review on Goodreads



::Product Details::

• Series: Atlanta Justice (Book 2)
• Paperback: 320 pages
• Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (May 1, 2018)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0764219812
• ISBN-13: 978-0764219818
• Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 0.8 x 8.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 10.1 ounces

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my unbiased review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

Blind Betrayal

::From the back cover of the book::
Deputy U.S. Marshal Casey Sloane has worked at the St. Louis Marshals office for two years and is given a routine assignment to help transport a reporter to D.C. to testify before a grand jury. Valerie, the reporter, was writing a story about an up-and-coming environmentalist who suddenly disappeared and, she later discovered, whose backers purportedly have ties to a terrorist.

When the seemingly ordinary assignment suddenly takes a shocking turn, Casey is forced to put aside her own feelings about the unexpected reappearance of a man from her past as she and two other Marshals take Valerie on the run. And as it becomes dangerously clear Valerie's testimony has even bigger implications than they knew, they'll do whatever it takes to make it out alive.



::My Thoughts::
I actually haven't had the pleasure to read a really suspenseful book in a little while, and this one definitely did not disappoint! I really enjoyed every bit of this book, and to say it had me on the edge of my seat would be an understatement. Many times throughout the story I was actually holding my breath wondering what would happen next!
This is my first Nancy Mehl novel, but I honestly cannot wait to read more of her books. The characters are captivating and very well done. The scenes that took place were just simply riveting! There are other books in this series, and unfortunately I did not get to read those. However, I wouldn't let that deter you from giving this book a read. It can definitely be a stand alone read. If you want more insight into the characters though then I would possibly go back and read the other books. But honestly it isn't necessary to enjoy this book.
My favorite thing about this book is that it definitely keeps you guessing. I can usually predict a books outcome, but there were so many surprises that I just didn't see coming!


My rating:: 5/5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟


This book is also available on Amazon


Click here to see my review on Goodreads



::Product Details::

• Series: Defenders of Justice (Book 3)
• Paperback: 320 pages
• Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (April 17, 2018)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0764217798
• ISBN-13: 978-0764217791
• Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 0.8 x 8.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 10.1 ounces

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my unbiased review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

A Most Noble Heir

::From the back cover::
Will Gaining the World Cost Him Everything He Holds Most Dear?
When stable hand Nolan Price learns from his dying mother that he is actually the son of the Earl of Stainsby, his plans for a future with kitchen maid Hannah Burnham are shattered. Once he is officially acknowledged as the earl's heir, Nolan will be forbidden to marry beneath his station.

Unwilling to give up the girl he loves, he devises a plan to elope--believing once their marriage is sanctioned by God that Lord Stainsby will be forced to accept their union. However, as Nolan struggles to learn the ways of the aristocracy, he finds himself caught between his dreams for tomorrow and his father's demanding expectations.

Forces work to keep the couple apart at every turn, and a solution to remain together seems farther and farther away. With Nolan's new life pulling him irrevocably away from Hannah, it seems only a miracle will bring them back together.


::My Thoughts::
What an excellent read! A lot of times with historical fiction, especially when talking romance novels certain aspects can blend together. It's very easy to go the stereotypical route, but thankfully this book did not. This book was out of the norm which made things completely unexpected. There were twists, turns, etc. I love books that take me by surprise, and I was glad that I could not guess what would happen in the next chapter throughout the book. It made the book that much more fun to read.
The main characters came to life right on the pages! While reading it was almost like I was right in the room with them! Nolan and Hannah had so much misfortune in their lives. Multiple obstacles were repeatedly thrown in their path, and still they persevered! It was a huge relief even though I kept expected this or that unfortunate event to rock them out of their element they held fast. It made everything that much more exciting to read. The characters definitely have depth to them, the story has many layers and will take you by surprise. There are a lot of other characters also that had me intrigued within the story. I would love to see more books about some of them. Especially Iris, Hannah's aunt. All in all I greatly enjoyed this story. It was romantic, it was heartbreaking, it was shocking, it was surprising. I think a lot of my blog readers will enjoy this novel. This one will definitely be going on my favorites shelf, and I can't wait to read more from this author.



::Product Details::

• Paperback: 368 pages
• Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (March 6, 2018)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0764230875
• ISBN-13: 978-0764230875
• Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 0.9 x 8.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 11.2 ounce

Click Here for my Goodreads Review

You can order this book today on Amazon

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my unbiased review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

Raising Passionate Jesus Followers: The Power of Intentional Parenting

::Book Description::

For Christian parents, there is no greater joy than seeing their children learn to walk with the Lord. And there is no greater fear than that their children will walk away from God.

After serving together in pastoral ministry for forty years, Phil and Diane Comer know those hopes and fears well. Thirty-seven years ago, they became parents themselves. And like all new parents, they were intimidated and unsure about how to take on the task of spiritually training their young children.

Now, with all four of their children grown and establishing their own households of faith, Phil and Diane have embarked on a quest to help the next generation of parents raise passionate Jesus followers. Drawing on years of pastoral counseling, teaching, leading, and decades of watching families from the perspective of pastors and leaders in ministry, Phil and Diane instruct, guide, encourage, and offer hope and practical help to Christian parents.

Raising Passionate Jesus Followersis a manual full of practical, biblically based guidelines that parents will be able to turn to again and again through each stage of their children’s development. Starting at birth, into grade school, through the daunting teenage years, to launching them into college, and finally letting go, this book contains the why’s and the how’s parents need. This book will serve as an invaluable resource for any parent whose greatest longing is to shepherd their children into a vibrant faith in God.

::My Thoughts::
I am always interested in discovering new parenting books and getting new parenting advice. In a world that is ever changing, it's always good to get all the advice you can. Especially when it comes to Christian parenting.
This book has a lot of relatable stories throughout, and a lot of tips. There are even various sections with advice on ages which I appreciated because methods differs with each age group. I believe this can be a great instructional book for new Christian parents who may not have been raised in a Christian home as well. Those that don't know where to start with their children's faith and Christianity.
This is basically a reference book, but I did enjoy it. It definitely will work best as a sort of handbook where you can go back and look at it whenever you need it. Definitely a good option to keep on your book shelf.


I rate this book:: 4/5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟

This book is available on Amazon.

Click here to check out my review on Goodreads.



::Product Description::

• Paperback: 304 pages
• Publisher: Zondervan (March 6, 2018)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0310347777
• ISBN-13: 978-0310347774
• Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 0.8 x 8.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 9.4 ounces

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Handlebar in exchange for my unbiased review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

A Light On The Hill

::From The Back Cover::
Though Israel has found relative peace, Moriyah has yet to find her own. Attempting to avoid the scorn of her community, she's spent the last seven years hiding behind the veil she wears. Underneath her covering, her face is branded with the mark of the Canaanite gods, a shameful reminder of her past captivity in Jericho and an assurance that no man will ever want to marry her. 

When her father finds a widower who needs a mother for his two sons, her hopes rise. But when their introduction goes horribly wrong, Moriyah is forced to flee for her life. Seeking safety at one of the newly established Levitical cities of refuge, she is wildly unprepared for the dangers she will face and the enemies--and unexpected allies--she will encounter on her way.


::My Thoughts::
This is an exceptional novel. I have read a couple of Connilyn Cossette's novels before, but this one so far is my favorite. This was nicely researched, the characters are alive on the pages, and the story overall will have you on with your finger ready to turn the page to see what will happen next. This book took me completely by surprise. I didn't want to put it down. I really loved Moriyah because despite all of her circumstances she never let anything break her. She was a very brave character. I also greatly enjoyed the character of Darek because he believes in justice, and does not judge harshly on others.
The author vividly describes everything so you can see everything with ease as you read. It more so played out like a movie in my mind while I read it was that vivid. There is a great message of salvation within this book's pages, and I think a lot of biblical fiction readers will greatly enjoy this one.



My Rating:: 5/5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟


This book is available today on Amazon


Click Here to see my review on Goodreads



::Product Details::

• Series: Cities of Refuge (Book 1)
• Paperback: 336 pages
• Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (February 6, 2018)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0764219863
• ISBN-13: 978-0764219863
• Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 0.8 x 8.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 10.6 ounces

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my unbiased review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

Judah's Wife: The Silent Years ~ A Novel of the Maccabees

::From the back cover::
To Be Silent Would Be to Deny Their God, To Defy Would Bring the Wrath of the King.
Seeking quiet and safety after a hard childhood, Leah marries Judah, a strong and gentle man, and for the first time in her life Leah believes she'll have peace. But the very nation Judah was named for has been conquered by a cruel king, who decrees that all Jews are to conform to Syrian laws or risk death for following the laws of Moses.

Judah's father resists the decree, igniting a war that will cost him his life. But before dying, he commands Judah to pick up his sword and continue the fight--or bear responsibility for the obliteration of Israel. Leah, who wants nothing but peace, struggles with her husband's decision--what kind of God would destroy the peace she has sought for so long?

The miraculous story of the courageous Maccabees is told through the eyes of Judah's wife, who learns that love requires courage . . . and sacrifice.


::My Thoughts::
Okay, let me just start out by saying I LOVED this book! Seriously, I have recommended this book to so many people. This book has many things I haven't found in a book in a long time. I felt a mixture of emotions while reading this book, and I just plain could NOT put this book down. You know it's a great novel when you are rushing through to get time to sit down and read again. I can honestly say I was hooked from the first chapter, and only a few books have captured me that quickly.
Angela Hunt is a great author. I have had the pleasure of reading a couple of her novels, and this one definitely didn't disappoint. Giving biblical characters lives and stories outside of the bible can definitely be tricky, but Angela Hunt did a fantastic job for the Maccabees.
My heart broke for Leah's mother, and Leah who had to live in a house filled with such physical abuse. My heart hurt for them, but the love that Judah and Leah had for each other was amazing. And Judah's entire family just honestly had my heart. Judah was such a surprising character for me. The gentle giant who put God above all, and loved his family with his entire heart as well.
The war parts in this story were difficult to read at times, but a must. It gives you a bit of insight on what things were like in biblical history. As graphic as it is, that was just how it was at times.
This is definitely a great read to show that no matter what is going on in life just trust and hold fast to God. Never let your faith waver. It is also a great show that everyone in life has a purpose for God. Even if you feel you have no purpose or you don't think you found your purpose you just might have and not even realized it. Leah felt often lost in life, and she was confused. Growing up the way she did she didn't fully talk to God and even though she believed it was clear that it was hard to put her complete trust in Him. Her growth as a woman, and a wife was amazing to read.
I don't want to give too much away because I don't want to spoil the novel for anyone. However, if you are looking for a novel that has war but love, despair but faith, loss but gain, then this book is definitely for you. It had me on the edge of my seat, and it gripped me in many ways. Highly recommended.



::My Rating:: 5/5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟


This book is available on Amazon

Click here for my review on Goodreads


::Product Details::

• Series: The Silent Years
• Paperback: 384 pages
• Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (January 2, 2018)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0764219332
• ISBN-13: 978-0764219337
• Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 1 x 8.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12.3 ounces

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my unbiased review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

God Gave Us Family

::From the back of the book::
Little Pup’s wolf family is on their way to a special reunion—with lots of cousins, games, roasting marshmallows, and fun! As the young wolf thinks about different kinds of families, it’s the perfect opportunity for Mama and Papa to teach their inquisitive child about the families that God brings together. Some families are big and others are small, some are led by grandparents or just one parent, and some families include adopted little ones– yet each family is truly special. 
 
Even the members of Little Pup’s pack make up an important role in his family, although they sometimes pester him. Papa gently reminds his son…
 
“We need to love the family God gave us.”
 
A heartwarming and colorful addition to the best-selling God Gave Us series, this tale will delight young hearts and help them understand how families of all types reflect God’s unconditional love.


::My Thoughts::
This is a wonderful book for children! Especially really young children who have questions about other types of families. There are so many different types of families, and sometimes that is hard for children to understand. Occasionally children may ask questions about those families because every family is different. Some families have moms and dads while some only have one parent. Sometimes a child lives with their grandparents. Sometimes there are families who adopt a child. Some families have many children while others only may have one. So many differences, and sometimes that is hard for some young children to understand. This book is wonderful for those questions. It not only answers a child's question about why other families may not be like theirs, but it shows God's love in each family. God is what brings family together, and that is so important to realize.
This book is not too long so it definitely captures your children's attention and holds it. The illustrations are wonderful. The pages are colorful and the illustrations are very well done and detailed. My children loved looking at the pages and noticing so many little details here and there.
I would highly recommend this book. 




::Product Details::

• Age Range: 3 - 7 years
• Grade Level: Preschool - 2
• Series: God Gave Us
• Hardcover: 40 pages
• Publisher: WaterBrook; Ill edition (October 17, 2017)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1601428766
• ISBN-13: 978-1601428769

::Find this book::

Hardcover    Kindle

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book as a Blogging for Books member in exchange for my unbiased review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

Brave Beauty

::From the back of the book::

What will my life be like? Who will I be? Whether girls put these concerns into words or struggle anxiously with these thoughts, during this season of change, girls have questions. Sometimes these questions also come with fears and they need a safe place to process these fears. From Proverbs 31 Ministries speaker and blogger, Lynn Cowell, comes Faithgirlz Brave Beauty: Finding the Fearless You.For girls 8-12, Brave Beauty brings tweens 100 courage-building moments to reflect on Scripture and find confidence in God, rather than in someone, some place, or some thing, as culture will all-too-soon tell them to. Lynn will also prepare girls to:

• Overcome confidence-defeating thoughts and stand on who Jesus says she is.
• Shape her self-worth on Christ and overcome the temptation base it on environmental factors.
• Build a strong foundation to face the fickle and flippant opinions of others.
• Find approval of herself even when she lacks the acceptance of others.
• Find security by turning to Christ as she steps through the exciting, yet scary world of growing up

Formatted as theme-based mini chapters, these moments can be read as one-a-days, one-a-weeks, or at the reader’s own pace. Simple and empowering, Lynn’s voice is relatable and conversational, making it easy for girls to feel like they’re spending time with a friend. This inspirational read will be set as a gorgeously foil decorated hardcover, with beautifully formatted pages in line with the well-known and loved Faithgirlz look, and with an easy-reference index to look up any topic.

::My Thoughts::

Let me just start by saying I am so glad that a book like this one is out there for girls. This is a fantastic read for young girls, and I would have loved having this book on my shelf when I was young. This is best suited for girls ages 8-12, but is flexible on age I think. My favorite thing about this book is there is so much advice on being able to deal with and ignore others opinions, and being more confident in yourself. It helps girls find more stability in God than through others, and teaches girls they are not alone. This is definitely an inspirational and truly moving book. It helps answer questions that many young girls have about themselves, and their future. It helps them move into their future with more confidence, and I believe can help root them deeper spiritually. It is current with today's culture, and just an all around fantastic devotional for girls. It is even a great fit for girls that are busy with sports or school as the devotionals take barely no time at all. It even has quizzes for girls to do and find out more about themselves. It would be wonderful for a mother, grandmother, aunt, older sister, etc., to read with their young tween. It gets girls thinking, and the author shares a lot of her own personal stories that are very relatable. This book deals with topics that girls face on an everyday basis, peer pressure, bullying, acceptance of others, self-esteem, etc. There is even a wonderful Table of Contents where a young girl can look up specific subjects she may need help with. The prayers contained in this book are equally as wonderful, and there isn't one thing I didn't love about this book. I definitely recommend it for any young girls out there, and really at any age. It is that wonderful. I, myself, was excited about what would come next. My cousin whom I gifted this book too loves it. She spends so much time just reading and reading it. She can read a chapter a day, more if she wishes, and even revisits some of them. In a world as we live in today I recommend this book for all young girls.

::Find this book::

Walmart ~ Target ~ Amazon ~ Barnes & Noble ~ ChristianBooks

::Product Details::

• Age Range: 8 - 12 years
• Grade Level: 3 - 7
• Series: Faithgirlz
• Hardcover: 320 pages
• Publisher: Zonderkidz (August 29, 2017)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0310763142
• ISBN-13: 978-0310763147

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Handlebar Publishing in exchange for my unbiased review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

Girl in Pieces

::About the book::
   Charlotte Davis is in pieces. At seventeen she’s already lost more than most people do in a lifetime. But she’s learned how to forget. The broken glass washes away the sorrow until there is nothing but calm. You don’t have to think about your father and the river. Your best friend, who is gone forever. Or your mother, who has nothing left to give you. 
   Every new scar hardens Charlie’s heart just a little more, yet it still hurts so much. It hurts enough to not care anymore, which is sometimes what has to happen before you can find your way back from the edge. 
  A deeply moving portrait of a girl in a world that owes her nothing, and has taken so much, and the journey she undergoes to put herself back together. Kathleen Glasgow's debut is heartbreakingly real and unflinchingly honest. It’s a story you won’t be able to look away from.



::My Thoughts::
Let me just start by saying I could not put this book down once I started reading it. In today's world many teens face many trials in their lives. It is a sad truth that often goes unlooked. This is a fantastic book that looks at the mental health of some teens, especially those that are dealt a very hard lot in life through no fault of their own. It also shows that there are always people out there that care, and that can help. That no matter how far down you think you are that you can always rise up again. This may be a hard read for some of you out there. It does deal with self harm, and goes into detail at times. But it is wonderful to see the characters grow throughout the story as well. And once you start reading it if you are liked me it will be hard to put down. I just had to keep reading to see how things worked out for Charlie, and the other characters as well. Her perserverence through the novel was really something amazing. I don't want to go into too much detail because I don't want to include any spoilers so I will just give a bit of info...
 Charlie is a teen girl put into a mental health facility. She doesn't want to speak to anyone. She has been through things she would rather not relive even in her own mind. She is abandoned, and has hurt herself in more ways than one. She has been in some dangerous situations. She hurts inside and out. There are other girls like her in ways while being different in the facility with her. She gets out of the mental health facility and has to learn to cope in the real world. She has to learn to do things on her own, and she tries her best to break her habits of self harm. She wants so badly to be normal, to be happy, but in a world full of problems she doesn't know where to begin. As much as she tries she just can't seem to get a step up...
I can't give away any more than that, but I definitely recommend you give this book a read especially if you are a fan of Thirteen Reasons Why, Girl Interrupted, etc.



::Find this book at some of the following::
Walmart ~ Target ~ Amazon ~ Barnes & Noble ~  and more...



::Product Details::

• Hardcover: 416 pages
• Publisher: Delacorte Press (August 30, 2016)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1101934719
• ISBN-13: 978-1101934715

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book as a Blogging For Books member in exchange for my unbiased review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

A Heart Most Certain

::From the back of the book::
While Lydia King's reasons for joining the Teaville Moral Society might be suspect to some members, her heart is in the right place. Because of her father's debts and her mother's persistent illness, her best chance at a secure future and curing her mother is to impress the politician courting her. Her first task--to ask the town's wealthiest man to donate--seems simple enough . . . until he refuses.

Despite appearances, Nicholas Lowe wants to help others, but prefers to keep his charity private. When Lydia proves persistent, they agree to a bargain, but Nicholas still intends to do things his own way. Neither predicts what they'll learn about true charity or foresee the complications their actions will bring to the town, forcing Lydia to decide where her beliefs and heart truly align.

::My Thoughts::
Typically it takes me a few chapters into a book to become really immersed, but this book had me from start to finish! I was captivated! It is very well written, the characters are very well put together, and the writing style will sweep you away.
This isn't your typical written historical romance fiction book. It holds so much information, and really a great look at how some people are, good and bad. Thought provoking doesn't even begin to describe this book.
At first I was so annoyed by Lydia. I know her background isn't great, but her way of thinking and going about things got on my nerves. It didn't last throughout the whole story thankfully, and without giving too much away I will leave it at that.
It isn't just a great read, but rather a book that will make you think. Particularly about judging others without knowing them, about love, compassion, charity, beliefs, etc.
There are a lot of twists and turns in this book. It's like a roller coaster ride if I must be honest. Definitely not in a bad way because I can't sing enough praises for this book. I definitely recommend this if you like historical fiction novels, especially Christian ones. I do have to say it has some sensitive topics, and some characters that young readers shouldn't be introduced to. There are prostitutes in this book, but it does talk about how sometimes women back then had little option.
Despite prostitutes being in this book it is a clean romance novel so no worries there if you don't like to read more in depth on that topic.
This is book one in this series, and I cannot wait to read book two. There are some secondary characters that I would love to learn more about as well.
If you would like to check it out, just click here.


::Product Description::

• Series: Teaville Moral Society
• Paperback: 400 pages
• Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (August 2, 2016)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0764217518
• ISBN-13: 978-0764217517

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my unbiased review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

My Little Prayers

::From the back of this book::

The bestselling My Little^® series, with more than 2 million copies sold, is a compact collection of books that will have a big impact on the hearts of your children. My Little Prayers will help you introduce your children to prayer.

My Little Prayers teaches children both classic and modern prayers surrounding subjects such as mealtimes, bedtime, playtime, time with God, and others as well as prayer for times when children are fearful, happy, or sad. New illustrations in the same perfect format for the small hands of your toddlers and preschoolers make My Little Prayers a wonderful gift for a variety of occasions, and it is just the right size to tuck into a birthday gift bag or Easter basket.

Children will learn a big lesson from this little book: that we can talk to God any time we want and that He always listens.

::My Thoughts::

This is such an adorable children's book. This has great prayers for everything, and they are easy to remember and repeat. The book is small enough for your child's hands to hold easily, and it makes it the perfect little gift as well. This can be great wrapped, in a gift bag, in a stocking, an Easter basket, etc. I love the illustrations in this book! The pictures are so well done, and colorful. This is sure to capture your children's attention, and a great guide for them to learn many prayers. There are so many great prayers packed into this little book. There are prayers for feelings whether your little one is feeling scared, happy, sad, etc. There are also prayers for mealtimes, bedtime, playtime, God time, etc. It just goes to show you can pray and talk to God whenever you want. I definitely recommend this book for your little ones. All three of my children love it. Prayer is big in our house, and even my oldest son who is almost nine likes to read the prayers, and has learned quite a few of them. My five year old is often reading through the prayers, and my one year old loves it to be read to her as well. I can't rave about this book enough. It is fantastic!

Find it on Amazon and Barnes & Noble

::Product Details::

• Age Range: 4 - 8 years
• Hardcover: 96 pages
• Publisher: Thomas Nelson; Reissue edition (May 3, 2016)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0718040198
• ISBN-13: 978-0718040192

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson in exchange for my unbiased review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.