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Starting From Scratch
Starting From Scratch
Kate Lloyd | 2017 | Fiction & Poetry
10
9.0 (2 Ratings)
Book Rating
After reading A Letter From Lancaster County and loving it, I knew I had to get my hands on this book. I was so excited when I got that chance! Don't get me wrong, when it comes to Amish Fiction, I'm very picky. With favorites like Wanda Brunstetter, Beverly Lewis and Amy Clipston, I have high expectations when it comes to well written, inspiring simple lives of the Amish variety. Ms. Lloyd is right up there with them and I loved every second of this page-turning, scrumptiously written, novel.

The characters within this novel are chiseled flawfully and beautifully. Jake and Eva remind me a lot of my own husband and myself. We both had a rough go for many years, and after meeting each other, and seeking God, we got to start over with each other, start from scratch and create a beautiful life together. Eva and Jake are captivating both alone in their stories, and when they are together. Watching them come to terms with their need to seek God in all they do, and for their need to start over and move on from the past, really tugged at my emotions.

Ms. Lloyd is truly talented. This novel is so worthy of the 5 star praises I'm singing to people. This book will wrap you up, twist you inside out, and land you in a place that only God can prepare for you. The inspiration that Ms. Lloyd pieces into the pages is beyond amazing and before I knew it, I was done with this novel. I can't wait for another fantabulously done, awesometastic Amish story in this incredible series! Well done, and hats off to you, Ms. Lloyd! Bring on the next!

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
  
As a mom of two teenaged boys, I find it hard, sometimes, to find time to do anything. It's a hectic, crazy time being a mom! It's hard to make sure they are taken care of, go to work, come home, cook dinner, spend time with them and my husband, and still find God time. It really is hard sometimes. But, my mom said something once, and this book kind of reminds of it. She told me "Jesus came to you, why can't you go to Him?" That's so true. Why can't I make the time to seek Him out no matter what whirlwind parenthood throws at me? 

Ms. Synder takes the hustle, bustle hectic life of being a working mom, wife, and child of God, and tells us how she found the strength to deal with it all. She creates this book in a way that is never boring, always leaving me with a chuckle. Learning to put God in the center of all and realizing that this crazy thing we parents call life is not that hard if we put Him at the front of all we do.

I definitely enjoyed this fast, interesting read. Ms. Synder did an incredible job and has really given me lots to ponder on as a mom. My life as a parent is a blessing not a burden no matter how crazy wild it can get. This is worth 4 stars for sure and I highly recommend this to all parents, new and seasoned! You'll find grace and peace in the middle of what may be an overwhelming experience and it will really help! <a href="http://cafinatedreads.com/?p=13613"; target="_blank">This review was originally posted on Cafinated Reads</a>
  
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Dauntless (Valiant Hearts, #1)
10
10.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
Medieval England, the ruthless King John sits on the throne. And Lady Merry Ellison has but one mission: To see to the safety of her “men”.

Set in the year 1216, England is in ruin. The nation is divided, scores of outlaws live in the forest and they do what they must to survive. Lady Merry will do anything to protect the orphans that make up their band known as “The Ghosts of Farthingale Forest”. Timothy Grey longs to become someone of power and authority. So he sets out to capture the ghosts, not knowing who their leader is. Will he turn in the ghosts and earn approval from his master? Or will he follow his heart and the leading of God?

Dauntless is the first book that I have read by Dina Sleiman, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was very engaging and quite the page turner. I loved how she used older English, but not so “olde” that I couldn’t understand the book. The “Historical Notes” were very informative and helpful to read. I wish I would have read it first, even thought there are a few spoilers in it. Her portrayal of the supernatural was very vivid. I liked it a lot! This story was a good reminder that things happen in our lives that we don’t always understand. But we must remember that God has a purpose for everything. Although we may never know why, we must trust Him and know that He truly knows best. Yes, I know, easier said than done. But in this story, the journey of reestablishing faith in God was amazing to behold and I pray that it brings you hope.

I received a free digital edition of Dauntless from Bethany House Publishers through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
  
Roseanna's books continue to completely blow my mind! Filled with so much heart-wrenching, heart-stopping, heart-melting events that it literally takes DAYS to recover. My poor heart can't handle any more at the moment. That being said...YOU NEED TO READ THIS SERIES!!! (Start with Book One, A Name Unknown) Set during the beginning of World War I we see a different side of the war than what we may be used to. The Belgium Orchestra Relief Fund...Based in Wales. So.Much.Music! I LOVE it!!!

One of the aspects of this story that struck me in the heart, is the fact that God KNOWS us. And He will speak to us in a unique and individual way that will grip our heart and MEAN SOMETHING to us. For me personally, God uses books, songs, art, and dance...pretty much anything in the 'arts'...to speak life and truth into my life. For Willa...well...you will have to wait and see.

Lukas and Willa create the perfect romantic tension and reminds us that no one is beyond saving. I absolutely adore Margot (Lukas's sister) and am so glad that we also get to see this story from her perspective in Brussels. Her brilliant mind and unique gift for "puzzles" adds a whole different layer to the story. It just goes to show, that when God has given us a gift, there are numerous ways that we can use it to help others and glorify Him.

If you love romance, mystery, history, and have a soft spot for music...You will fall in love with Lukas, Margot, and Willa and her "family" in a heartbeat.

I received a complimentary copy of A Song Unheard from the publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
  
Filled with colorful characters and excellent life lessons VeggieTales Every Day with God: 365 Daily Devos is a great addition to our daily routine. Since I have 2 boys (aged 2 and 4), I got the devotional book for boys...Shocker, I know. All the characters on the pages are the guys from VeggieTales, Bob, Larry, Junior, Larry Boy, Pa Grape, Mr. Lunt etc. Each page is labeled as Day 1, 2, 3...Instead of the dates. The devotion for the day is only one page, which is perfect for my active boys who don't like to sit still for very long. The devo starts with a title such as "It's Good to Have Good Friends" and "Jesus Loves You!" a coinciding scripture is next, the version varies depending on the verse. There are about 16 different versions of the bible used in this devotional. There is a 2-3 paragraph devo, followed by a "Thought of the Day" and "Pray Today" prayer. There are also several verses for memorization in the back of the book. The language is easy to understand and the lessons are great. From learning about spiritual gifts, God's love being real, and God's provision...to honesty, giving God your worries, being willing to forgive. There is something new every day for your kids to learn. The boys love this book and I even see my 4 year old "reading" it on his own. My 2 year old is a little young for it, but I believe this book is great for establishing the habit of daily devotions for both of the boys.
I received a free copy of VeggieTales Every Day with God: 365 Daily Devos for Boys through FlyBy Promotions in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
  
IT
In the Shadow of David
2
2.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
<i>This eBook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

In the Shadow of David</i> is Martin Baggen’s attempt at reimagining “the greatest story ever told,” i.e. the life of Jesus Christ. Beginning on the banks of the river Jordan where John the Baptist is washing away the sins of his followers, the story continues before concluding with the resurrection. Told through the eyes of supporting characters, the details of Jesus’ life, or in this instance Yeshua’s, are reinvented in fairly accurate historical settings.

Unfortunately, Braggen’s attempt at originality is going to upset 2.2 billion people. Instead of telling the story of Jesus in the manner he is portrayed in the Bible, the author pens the character Yeshua and claims that there was no “Son of God.” The names, settings and historical facts all remain the same or similar in this version of events, however the miracles: Lazarus’ death, water into wine, the resurrection of Christ/Yeshua, were all shown to be a charade. According to<i> In the Shadow of David</i>, the “Son of God” was a charlatan attempting to reunite the Jews and overthrow the ruling Romans.

By mocking Christianity, Martin Braggen has wasted his writing talent with this blasphemous novel. Granted there are many people who try to prove the inexistence of a god, however in these instances there are always counter arguments. By containing this controversial opinion in a story, it prevents any other theories or beliefs from contributing.

Many may purchase this book with the mistaken idea that it will convey an in-depth narrative of the life of Jesus. What they will find instead is a disappointing atheist version instead. It is doubtful that readers will get to the end of the book, despite it not being overly long, after slamming it shut in anger and frustration.
  
    Monsu 2

    Monsu 2

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