Linda's Lunacy

Faith, Home, & Family

A Simpler Season eBook Review

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I received a copy of the ebook A Simpler Season by Jessica Fisher to read and review. Jessica Fisher blogs over at Life as Mom. I was interested in reading this book, and I wasn’t disappointed. Whether your a newlywed trying to blend family traditions together or someone like me whose kids (some of them) are grown and married, no matter the stage in life your at, you’ll find helpful information in A Simpler Season.

With chapters including Family Life at the Holidays, Holiday Time Management, Home Management, Holiday Feasting, and more, A Simpler Season is an awesome guide to planning the winter holidays. You’ll find inspiration, ideas, and tips, for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years.  This book is over 150 pages including recipes, children’s activity sheets, planning sheets, calendars, and tutorials for homemade gifts. There are even over 20 family activity cards to print and do over the month of December.

I love that she has included several worksheets to help you decide what you want from the holidays, and to combine family holiday traditions. You can either write the answers on paper, or print out the sheets and write directly on them. (Printable pages not included in the Kindle edition, but can be purchased separately.) There are also many to do lists to help you in your planning.

I am in the midst of planning our family Thanksgiving dinner, (I’ll deal with Christmas after that!), and I plan on using A Simpler Season to help me make it a great family time.

 

You can purchase the A Simpler Season eBook at Life as Mom Simpler Season for $9.00.

The Kindle version of A Simpler Season is available on Amazon for $6. (Not my affiliate link)

You can purchase the A Simpler Season Printable Pages Pack separately in the Life as Mom Store for $3.

 

Every family needs their own copy of A Simpler Season so they can enjoy a peaceful and joyful holiday season together as a family.

 

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this ebook to review  in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. My opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Grace and Truth Books – Review

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As part of The Schoolhouse Review Crew, I received two books from Grace & Truth Books Heritage Series Books for boys to review. I received Gerrit and His Dog, as well as A Faithful Boys Influence. I had my 12 year old, 6th grade son read these books.

 

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So you’re looking for Christian books online. You’ve not only come to the right place, you’ve also come to a very different place. Because Grace and Truth Books isn’t a Christian bookstore that follows the latest trends. We know that the truth of our Lord Jesus Christ has nothing to do with fancy packaging or attempting to resemble secular literature or media. This online Christian book store is built on a different approach: what will glorify God, strengthen His people in their walk, and call all peoples to find joy in knowing His gospel and following Him.

That definitely sounds like a bookstore I want to shop at!

 

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Gerrit and His Dog, for boys ages 8-12, sells for $5.50. This book is a reprint. I had never read it before, but I found it to be a delightful story about a boy and his dog. Gerrit and his dog Brownie get separated, unfortunately by Gerrit’s uncle. This story follows Gerrit, and Brownie and shows how God was watching over both of them while they were separated. And their joyful reunion. Gerrit and His Dog will teach your boys about sympathy and compassion.

This volume also contains a 2nd story, The Royal Law. the Royal Law follows a poor boy and his family as their lives are transformed by the grace of God. This transformation takes place when they learn about Jesus’ great commandment – doing unto others as you would have them do unto you.

Here’s what Zach had to say about these books:

Gerrit and His Dog – “It was a good story. Gerrit is my favorite character in the story. ”
The Royal Law – “It’s a good story. Hans and Hester are my favorite characters.”

Ok, he basically said the same thing about both books. However, both of these books are good stories. I read them myself, even though I’m not a boy.  🙂

 

The second book I received was A Faithful Boy’s Influence,for boys ages 6-12, which sells for $6.25. A Faithful Boy’s Influence is a reprint of the book  All Can Help.

Zach is in the middle of reading this book and he’s really liking it.

Charlie Clement was a visitor at the home of relatives for a year, and his visit brought about great changes in the minds and attitudes of both the townspeople and even the local pastor. Charlie’s admirable character was an encouragement to everyone he met and many learned to imitate his walk with the Lord. This wonderful children’s book, about how a young boy initiated respect for God’s servant by a good example, will mold your children’s character in an important area.

Also, a second part of the book includes Herbert Dawson’s Ears For Little Gleaners, a collection of lessons from 19th-century Sunday school books on what true treasure is, how to find wisdom, keep away from sin, and several more.

Both the first story and the collection of Sunday School lessons in this book sound great, and I can’t wait to read it myself. I have to wait until he’s done, though. I hope he hurries! lol

 

 

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*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received these books to review  in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. My opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Courting Cate – Book Review

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When This Couple Gets to Courting, Sparks Will Fly!

In Paradise, Pennsylvania, Cate Miller is known more for her sharp tongue and fiery temper than her striking appearance. Her sweet and flirty sister, Betsy, on the other hand, seems to have attracted most of the bachelors in Lancaster County!

But the sisters’ wealthy father has made one hard-and-fast rule: older Cate must marry first, before younger Betsy can even start courting. Unfortunately, untamable Cate has driven away every suitor-until Pete Treger comes to town, that is.

Prodded by the men of the area, Pete turns his attention to winning Cate’s hand. But is his interest true or is there a scheme at play?
Courting Cate is Book 1 in The Courtships of Lancaster County series. Link to buy the book: http://ow.ly/eSNfb (Not my affiliate link)

 

 

Meet Leslie:

Leslie Gould is the co-author, with Mindy Starns Clark, of the #1 bestselling The Amish Midwife and The Amish Nanny. She is also the author of numerous novels, includingGarden of Dreams, Beyond the Blue (winner of the Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice for Best Inspirational Novel, 2006), and Scrap Everything. She holds an MFA in creative writing from Portland State University and has taught fiction writing at Multnomah University as an adjunct professor. She resides with her husband and four children in Portland, Oregon.

Learn more at www.lesliegould.com.

 

MY REVIEW:

I really enjoyed reading Courting Cate. The Amish deal with many of the same things in life that non-Amish deal with. I like how the author, Leslie Gould, includes several of these in Courting Cate. It makes this book more realistic, and really draws you into the story.

Cate and her sister couldn’t be more different. Their fathers ultimatum drives a wedge between the sisters. Because Cate has been a mother to her sister since she was a baby and loves her very much, she does everything she possible can to make a way for her sister to marry. Including entering a loveless marriage.
A retelling of the Taming of the Shrew! Leslie Gould is celebrating the release of Courting Cate with a fun Kindle Fire Giveaway and a Facebook Author Chat Party (11/20)!

 

One lucky winner will receive:

  • A Kindle Fire
  • Courting Cate by Leslie Gould

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 19th. Winner will be announced at the “Courting Cate” Author Chat Facebook Party on 11/20. Connect with Leslie, get a sneak peek of her next book, try your hand at an Amish trivia contest, and chat with readers just like you. There will also be gift certificates, books and a Book Club Prize Pack to be won (10 copies for your book club or small group)!

So grab your copy of Courting Cate and join Leslie on the evening of the November 20th for a chance to connect with Leslie and make some new friends. (If you haven’t read the book – don’t let that stop you from coming!)

 

 

Don’t miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 20th!

 

 

 

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Journeys of Faithfulness – Book Review

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As part of The Schoolhouse Review Crew, I received the Apologia book  Journeys of Faithfulness by Sarah Clarkson to review.

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Journeys of Faithfulness – stories of life and faith for young christian women is written for ages 12 and up. I had my 16 year old daughter start this book. I say start, as she hasn’t finished it yet. These stories and devotionals are best read one, maybe two a week, to allow plenty of time for study and for them to apply it to their lives. This would also make an awesome mother – daughter study.

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Journeys of Faithfulness is divided into four sections: Mary & Martha Mary, Mother of Jesus Esther Ruth

Celebrate the beauty, sacrifice, and courage that made these women the heroines they are with this collection of inspirational stories and devotions.

I love that description from the website! These women were all beautiful and courageous, who sacrificed greatly. Certainly women worthy of our study and reflection. Each section has three chapters with each chapter containing up to twenty pages. Included in each chapter is a story about a woman of the Bible, a devotional, a Bible study, and journal pages to fill out. You can view the   Table of Contents and a Sample Chapter. My daughter enjoyed reading this book. Hannah, age 16 – “I liked this book. I liked her style of writing. I liked reading through a whole chapter at one time.” By reading, studying, and journaling with this book, young women will learn about these great women of the Bible. By learning about these great women of the Bible, the girls will learn that God has a great plan for their lives, too.   Journeys of Faithfulness sells for $13 on the Apologia website.     Photobucket *Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book to review  in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. My opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Memory Jar – Book Review

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About The Memory Jar:
Book One in the Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors series
Every year, 30-40 young Amish men descend on the cozy little town of West Kootenai, Montana, arriving in the spring to live there for six months and receive ‘resident’ status for the hunting season in the fall. They arrive as bachelors, but go home with brides! Sarah Shelter has lived in West Kootenai for the last ten years and wonders if she will ever fall in love. Since the tragic death of her best friend, she carries her memories in a jar along with the small items connected to them. For just as long, she’s also been carrying around her emotions instead of allowing them to penetrate deep into her heart. Now she’s met a kind and gentle man who may be able to break down the wall. But can Sarah risk her heart to finally achieve her dreams?

Link to buy the book: http://ow.ly/esMtx (Not my affiliate link)

 

 

 

 

Meet Tricia: Tricia Goyer is the award winning author of over thirty books including Beside Still Waters, Remembering You, and the mommy memoir, Blue Like Play Dough. Tricia is a regular speaker at conventions and conferences and is the host of Living Inspired. She and her family make their home in Little Rock, Arkansas where they are part of the ministry of FamilyLife.
Find out more about Tricia at http://triciagoyer.com.

 

 

 

MY REVIEW:

I have read several books by Tricia Goyer and have thoroughly enjoyed them all. The Memory Jar is no different.

I love to save mementos, little things to remember people or events by. I don’t keep them in a jar, though. Just all over the house. lol So I could relate to Sarah and her love of mementos. Sarah keeps mementos that remind her of painful memories, not just happy ones. These painful memories are told as flashback scenes while Sarah is looking at items from her jar. These scenes flow well with the story.

The Memory Jar has quite a different setting from other Amish books I’ve read.  The Memory Jar is set in a small town that grows by 30-40 young Amish men every spring. They move there and stay for the six months preceding hunting season so they have resident status, since only residents can obtain a hunting license.

While the young men are waiting to go hunting, many young women of the town are doing some hunting of their own. For husbands. Sarah is not looking for a husband, though, and has a hard time letting a certain young man get closer to her. She has too many painful memories to make room for new, good memories. Finally, finally, Sarah is able to set aside some of her most painful memories, while making new memories and adding new items to her memory jar. All with the help of her new beau.

The Memory Jar is a great read if your reading Amish fiction for the first time, or whether your already an Amish fiction and Tricia Goyer fan.

 

 

 

Celebrate with Tricia by entering her Amish Kindle Gift Pack Giveaway and RSVPing to her Facebook party on November 7th. (And be sure to catch the fun video trailer or try your hand at one of the simple, keepsake crafts Tricia has put together on her website.)

 

One fortunate winners will receive:

  • A brand new Kindle Fire
  • Custom-made Memory Jar Kindle Cover
  • Amish-made decorative items {Wall hanging, horse/buggy and Amish houses}
  • The Memory Jar {Be swept away by this captivating series.}

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 6th. Winner will be announced at the “Memory Jar Author Chat Party on 11/7. Connect with Tricia for an evening of book chat, Amish trivia, and a live video chat! There will also be a chance to win gift certificates, books, and other fun prizes!

So grab your copy of The Memory Jar and join Tricia on the evening of the November 7th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven’t read the book – don’t let that stop you from coming!)

Don’t miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 7th!

 

 

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Girl’s Still Got It Book Review

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You know Ruth’s story. Now meet her in person. And prepare to be changed.

Walk with Ruth as she travels from Moab to Bethlehem, certain of her calling, yet uncertain of her future. Hold Naomi’s hand and watch love put the pieces of her broken life back together. And hang out with Boaz, their kinsman-redeemer, who blesses both women and honors God, big time.

With best-selling author Liz Curtis Higgs by your side, you’ll tarry in the corners of their ancient houses, listen to their conversations, and consider every word of every verse until you can say, “Itotally get the book of Ruth. And I see what God is trying to teach me through this rags-to-riches redemption story—he has a plan for my life.”

Girl, does he ever!

Think of it as time travel without gimmicks, gizmos, or a DeLorean: a novel approach to Bible study that leaps from past to present, gleaning timeless truths that speak to the heart.

 

The Girl's Still Got It

 

I have loved every book I have read by Liz Curtis Higgs. Both Fiction and non-fiction. The Girl’s Still Got It is no exception. I was really looking forward to reading this book, and I was not disappointed.

I love the way the author explains the Bible verses. She takes her time going through the verse, sometimes one word at a time. Not only does she explain each verse, she goes back to the original Hebrew to find the correct definition of a word. That is something I think is a must in a Bible study.

While The Girl’s Still Got It is an entertaining book, it is also a Bible study. I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Girl’s Still Got It and learned a lot from it.

I highly recommend The Girl’s Still Got It if you like reading Liz Curtis Higg’s books, love the book of Ruth, or want to learn more about Ruth.

You can  Read Chapter One here.

Here are a few links: click for More Info,  a PODCAST: The Girl’s Still Got It by Liz Curtis Higgs which is an interview with Liz Curtis Higgs,  Read the Author Bio,  and visit the Author’s Web Site.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book from Blogging for Books to review  in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. My opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Amish Family Cookbook Review

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It is time for a FIRST Wild Card Tour book review! If you wish to join the FIRST blog alliance, just click the button. We are a group of reviewers who tour Christian books. A Wild Card post includes a brief bio of the author and a full chapter from each book toured. The reason it is called a FIRST Wild Card Tour is that you never know if the book will be fiction, non~fiction, for young, or for old…or for somewhere in between! Enjoy your free peek into the book!

You never know when I might play a wild card on you!

Today’s Wild Card authors are:

 

 

and the book:

 

Harvest House Publishers; Spi edition (October 1, 2012)
***Special thanks to Ginger Chen for sending me a review copy.***

 

ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

 

Jerry Eicher’s bestselling Amish fiction (more than 210,000 in combined sales) includes The Adams County Trilogy, the Hannah’s Heart books, and the Little Valley Series. After a traditional Amish childhood, Jerry taught for two terms in Amish and Mennonite schools in Ohio and Illinois. Since then he’s been involved in church renewal, preaching, and teaching Bible studies. Jerry lives with his wife, Tina, and their four children in Virginia.

Tina Eicher was born and married in the Amish faith, surrounded by a mother and sisters who were great Amish cooks. At fellowship meals and family gatherings, Tina’s dishes receive high praise and usually return empty. She and her husband, Jerry Eicher, author of several bestselling Amish fiction titles, are the parents of four children and live in Virginia.
Visit the author’s website.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

From bestselling author Jerry Eicher (more than 350,000 books sold) and his wife, Tina, comes this warm and inviting peek into an Amish kitchen, complete with recipes, Amish proverbs, and a dash of Amish humor. Readers will laugh, pray, and eat robustly with The Amish Family Cookbook at their side.

Product Details:

List Price: $ 14.99

Spiral-bound: 272 pages

Publisher: Harvest House Publishers; Spi edition (October 1, 2012)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 0736943773

ISBN-13: 978-0736943772

AND NOW…A FEW RECIPES FOR YOU TO TRY (CLICK ON PICTURES TO SEE THEM LARGER):

 

 

 

 

 

 

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