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Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama

The Shenanigans of a Bookish Mama journeying through Motherhood, Homeschooling and lots of Books!

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Ergermeir's Interactive Story Bible by Warner Press

December 5, 2022

 





I love Bibles especially Kids Bibles because I’m always looking for one that will captivate my kiddos during our devotional time. The Egermeier’s Bible is unique because it is interactive! While this is more of a storybook format I think it captures kids right away so that they can go and look for the Bible Story in their Bibles.

One of the things my kids really enjoyed was the QR codes in some of the pages. It gives you the story in video form which for your non-readers is perfect. And since it’s a shortened version you can still read the story and dig deeper with it.

This would make a great gift for your kiddos. Use discount code BLOG30 to receive 30% off!

🎉 You can also enter the giveaway here:

 https://www.blessedfreebies.com/egermeiers-interactivestorybible.html




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Stay with Me by Jody Hedlund ~ Book Review

December 2, 2022

 



About the Book 


Book: Stay with Me
Author: Jody Hedlund
Genre: Medieval Time Travel Romance
Series: Waters of Time, Book 3
Release Date: December 6, 2022

Sacrificing and dying to oneself is costly.
But doing so brings new purpose and joy.

As a private investigator, Sybil Huxham has seen her fair share of strange occurrences. But nothing in her career has been more perplexing than the miracles she’s witnessed as a result of people drinking ancient holy water. When she discovers more of the rare holy water, she experiences strange overlaps with a nobleman in the Middle Ages who is languishing in a dungeon, accused of treason and condemned to die. To save his life, she finally crosses to the past completely.

Nicholas Worth has never met a woman quite like Sybil, and as the two run for their lives into the Weald, they find refuge among a community of outlaws. With both their reputations on the line, they have little choice but to marry. As they get to know each other, an undeniable attraction develops. But danger and disease chase after them, drawing ever closer. Will they be able to escape the threats? And will Sybil choose to stay with Nicholas in the past, or will she be ripped apart from him forever?






My Thoughts 


So great to be back in this world that Jody Hedlund has developed. Who knew that time travel would be a genre I would enjoy so much! After reading Book 2 I was eagerly awaiting for Sybil's story and I must admit that I was curious how she would make Sybil time travel and boy did she take me into quite a journey. Jody definitely takes you into this magnificent ancient world that you just want to be in the whole time. This storyline was very fast paced and definitely keeps you turning the pages. 

The romance factor in this story is WOW! Nicholas is definitely swoon worthy and when paired with spunky Sybil it makes for an amazing romance story. I loved how she quickly adapted to Medieval times and life with Nicholas. 

I will say that Sybil has quite a story and I think that we could know more about. I am really hoping that we get to know more about her brother in the next book and also find out what happens with this person trying to acquire the Holy Water. 

Although this is part of a series I think it could be read as a stand alone. There are mentions of past characters but sadly for me we don't get to see them in this story.  Although there are mentions of God I don't think there is a huge thread of faith in the story but it was clean. I will say that if you are extremely conservative in your reads as far as romance goes this may teeter on the lines for you. 

Overall I thought this was good story. If you enjoy time travel and clean romances then I definitely suggest this book. I for one can't wait to see what happens next!

My Rating: 4 Stars/ Really enjoyed it

I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.








About the Author




Jody Hedlund is the best-selling author of over forty books and is the winner of numerous awards. She writes sweet historical romance with plenty of sizzle. Find out more at jodyhedlund.com.

Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.
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Holy Pals Pajamas Review

November 18, 2022


How cool is it when you get to review pajamas? It’s even cooler when they come from a Christian company! I love the purpose behind Holy Pals.

They are all about making the Bible part of children at home! Each pajama set not only has a fun Biblical print ( Easter, Esther, Noah, David & Goliath, Daniel, Jonah and so much more!) but it also has the passage reference stitched on the sleeve! Talk about an opportunity to study God’s word together and have reminder of it as you sleep!

I am wearing their new Christmas collection mine are called Away in a Manger. They are cozy and soft! They come in sizes XS-XL. I love that they have pockets. It’s a snug fit so I wish I would have ordered a size up just because I like loose things when I’m sleeping. Despite that they are super comfy though and not scratchy like other pj’s tend to be. I love that they feature the manger, Mary and Joseph, Wise Men and the cutest angels!

If you are looking for matching Christmas pj’s with a special meaning then check them out and receive 10% off with my special code: https://holypals.com/discount/KELLYANN10

Thank you @holypalsinc and @frontgatem for the opportunity to review this product! All views expressed are only my honest opinion!

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Return to Maren by Katherine Barger ~ Book Review

November 15, 2022

 



About the Book 


Book: Return to Maren
Author: Katherine Barger
Genre: Young Adult Christian Dystopian
Series: Exiled Trilogy, Book 3
Release Date: October 3, 2022
Publisher: Anaiah Press

The exiles escaped from Burgus—the most notorious prison in America—and fled to the safety of Fortune’s Fall. But Nyssa Ardelone stayed behind with the hopes that she can convince the president that the exiles mean him no harm—despite his prophetic dreams that have convinced him otherwise. With a fake dream implanted into his dream recorder, Nyssa’s confident she can make him believe that his survival is conditional on the exiles’ safe return to Maren. But the task proves harder than she anticipated when she discovers the dream has sound in it, something that’s never happened in any previous prophetic dream. Suspicious, the president becomes more unpredictable than ever before, and if Nyssa can’t figure out why the dream has sound, reuniting with her family and friends in Maren might prove impossible.

With the help of an unexpected friend, Nyssa uncovers the truth behind the sound as well as long-buried secrets about the president’s past, a past that the president will do anything to keep hidden, including the total annihilation of the exiles. To protect the exiles and ensure their safe return to Maren, Nyssa will confront the president one final time, and its outcome will either give her everything she ever wanted, or destroy everyone she loves.



My Thoughts 


I have been awaiting for this book for what seems like forever. Katherine Barger definitely captured from her very first book as we journeyed with Nyssa and every time she left me in a cliffhanger and wanting more. It was sad to turn the last page and realize this was the end to this wonderful trilogy. You will definitely want to read this series from the very beginning so don't pick this book thinking you will figure it out. You won't. The story truly unfolds in each book.

One of the main things I enjoyed in this series is the Biblical parallels that Katherine instills within the storyline. This one is inspired by the return of the Jews to Jerusalem which we see in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. While this story is not going to parallel specific moments you can tell this is where the inspiration comes from. 

I am not going to divulge too much on this story as I don't want to give anything away, especially if you haven't read the previous books but I will say that there is some twists I didn't see coming. There is some romance but it is very light. The only thing I was hoping to see a little bit more resolution on was Nyssa's faith. She still continues to waver and doubt throughout this story. While I think it was very realistic way to do this and will in no doubt be encouraging and relatable to new Christians being that this is the last book I was hoping for more development in this area. This is in no way a negative to the author, like I said I think she did a splendid job at making relatable. 

Overall I really enjoyed this story and I am going to miss being in this fictional world with these characters. I for one can't wait to see what else this author comes up with!  is a perfect read for young adults and even middle schoolers that like the dystopian genre. 

My Rating: 4 Stars/ Really Liked it

I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.




About the Author




Katherine Barger writes stories about characters of faith in a world where faith is challenged. When she’s not wrangling kids alongside her forever-forbearing husband, she’s writing, eating Mexican food, or snuggling with her family’s two rescue pets: a dog named Queen Elsa and a cat named Princess Jasmine.

Katherine loves hearing from readers! You can contact her at katherinebarger.com, or on Facebook or Instagram.
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Anything but Plain by Suzanne Woods Fisher ~ Book Review

November 11, 2022

 


About the Book 


Book: Anything but Plain
Author: Suzanne Woods Fisher
Genre: Christian Amish Romance Fiction
Release Date: October 4, 2022
Publisher: Revell

It's not easy being the bishop's daughter, especially for Lydie Stoltzfus. She's not like other Amish girls, as much as she wishes she were. The only thing she does well is disappoint others. Leaving her family and church seems unbearable, but staying might be worse.

Knowing Lydie is "between" jobs, the local doctor asks her to fill in at the front desk for a few months. To Lydie, this is a boon. It gives her time to figure out how she's going to say goodbye to her neighbor, Nathan Yoder--the main reason she needs to leave Stoney Ridge. Nathan claims he's in love with her, but she knows she's not good enough for him. If in doubt, Nathan's father reminds her frequently.

As Dok spends time with Lydie, she recognizes symptoms of a disorder rare among the Amish. She offers treatment for Lydie. But will it be enough to make her stay? Or has help come too late?

Bestselling and award-winning author Suzanne Woods Fisher invites you back to Stoney Ridge, a small town that feels like an old friend.




My Thoughts 


It's been a while since I've read an Amish Fiction story and this one did not disappoint. This was nothing I have ever read and the author tackles a topic that I don't think has been tackled to this detail in Christian Fiction. 

In this story we meet Lydie who suffers from ADHD. This is something that the Amish don't believe can happen to them and pretty much ignore. Sadly this causes Lydie to be misunderstood and categorized into something that she isn't. She can't help the way her mind works. Having a kiddo with ADHD myself I definitely could see the similarities. It became that much more enjoyable for Lydie to find a resolution because we have lived this. 

I really enjoyed Dok and how she helps her see the potential that is inside her once she applies herself. Another character I enjoyed was Nathan. He was perfect for her despite her staying away from him I was so glad that he never gave up on her and kept on pursuing her in his own way. 

Overall I thought this was a great story and if you are in the mood to go into Amish country then definitely grab this book!!

My Rating: 4 Stars/Really Liked it!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher Revell. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.



About the Author


Suzanne Woods Fisher is the bestselling, award winning author of fiction and non-fiction books about the Old Order Amish for Revell Books, host of the radio-show-turned-blog Amish Wisdom, a columnist for Christian Post and Cooking & Such magazine.

Her interest in the Amish began with her grandfather, who was raised Plain. A theme in her books (her life!) is that you don’t have to “go Amish” to incorporate the principles of simple living.

Suzanne lives in California with her family and raises puppies for Guide Dogs for the Blind. To her way of thinking, you just can't life too seriously when a puppy is tearing through your house with someone's underwear in its mouth.

Suzanne can be found on-line at: www.suzannewoodsfisher.com
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Body of Evidence by Irene Hannon ~ Book Review

November 10, 2022

 



About a Book 


Book: Body of Evidence
Author: Irene Hannon
Series: Triple Threat, Book 3
Genre: Christian Mystery Suspense
Publisher: Revell
Release Date: October 4, 2022

Forensic pathologist Grace Reilly has seen her share of unusual deaths in rural Missouri. But when she begins to notice a curious pattern in autopsies of elderly residents whose demise appears to be natural, she takes her concerns to Sheriff Nate Cox.

Nate is skeptical about the link Grace is seeing between the deaths--and her suspicions of foul play. But her persistence is compelling. Once she finally convinces him her theory is credible and they join forces to investigate, danger follows. Because exposing the truth could destroy several lives--including Grace's.

Queen of inspirational romantic suspense Irene Hannon closes out her bestselling Triple Threat series with this gripping tale of secrets revealed and romance sparked.




My Thoughts 


Another great read by Irene Hannon and a great ending to the series. We finally get to read about the third Reilly sister Grace. Once again I was sitting at the edge of my seat trying to figure out who the culprit was and I honestly did not figure it out on my own so definitely a great story.

Mrs. Hannon definitely has done her research on what it takes to be a forensic pathologist. There are some vivid details that are not for the squeamish reader but she made it so interesting it was easy to continue the story. The love interest Nate was so good and I really enjoyed how their relationship just flowed. 

Overall I thought this was a great story and if you enjoy Christian Suspense then you will really enjoy this book. I will advise you start from the beginning to read the series from the beginning so you can get to know the other characters that pop up better! 

My Rating: 4 Stars/Really enjoyed it!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher Revell. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.





About the Author


Irene Hannon, who writes both contemporary romance and romantic suspense, is the author of more than 60 novels. Her books have been honored with three coveted RITA awards from Romance Writers of America (the “Oscar” of romance fiction) and she is a member of that organization's elite Hall of Fame. She has also received a Career Achievement award from RT Book Reviews for her entire body of work. Other awards for individual books include National Readers' Choice, HOLT Medallion, Daphne du Maurier, Retailers Choice, Booksellers' Best, and Reviewers' Choice from RT Book Reviews. She is also a two-time Christy award finalist.

A former corporate communications executive with a Fortune 500 company, Irene now writes full time. To learn more about Irene and her books, visit www.irenehannon.com.
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The Bookshop of Secrets by Mollie Rushmeyer ~ Book Review Tour

November 9, 2022

 


About the Book


Book: The Bookshop of Secrets
Author: Mollie Rushmeyer
Genre: Contemporary Women’s Fiction (Christian)
Release date: October 25, 2022


A collection of lost books holds the clues to her family’s legacy…and her future.


Hope Sparrow has mastered the art of outrunning her tragic past, learning never to stay anywhere too long and never to allow anyone control over her life again. Coming to Wanishin Falls in search of her family’s history already feels too risky. But somewhere in the towering stacks of this dusty old bookshop are the books that hold Hope’s last ties to her late mother—and to a rumored family treasure that could help her start over.


Only, the bookshop is in shambles, and the elderly owner is in the beginning stages of dementia and can’t remember where the books lie. To find the last links to the loved ones she’s lost, Hope must stay and accept help from the townsfolk to locate the treasured volumes. Each secret she uncovers brings her closer to understanding where she came from. But the longer she stays in the quaint town, the more people find their way into the cracks in her heart. And letting them in may be the greatest risk of all…

 

Click here to get your copy!

 


My Thoughts


As soon as I saw the cover of this book I knew I wanted to read it. I mean what is not to love about a setting that is in a bookshop?! I mean that is a book nerds dream. Not only is the book cover amazing but the storyline is spectacular. This is Mollie Rushmeyer's debut novel and she did such an amazing job with it. I truly did not what to expect but the story is so much more than what the summary relays. 

I was completely captured by the characters. We meet Hope who steps into Dusty Jackets a bookshop owned by an elderly couple. She is looking for her mothers books that she has left her. Immediately you can tell that she has secrets that she doesn't want to divulge them. She is closed off and doesn't like people getting close to her but she can't help it after all she in a small town where everyone knows everyone and everything. Her mother has left her these classic books with clues to a treasure. In trying to find her books she meets wonderful people in the town including Ronan which is the grandson of the owner of the bookstore. He is not without his own hurts and past but together they manage to overcome their hurts. 

I can't tell you too much because it will ruin it for you but know that this story definitely has its twists and turns. It has a bit suspense and of course there is romance. But most of all there is a strong element of faith and the way the author incorporates it into the clues of the treasure hunt is very unique. Kudos to the author as well for tackling some deep subjects that some may shy away from. The topic of dementia and human trafficking are a big part of the story and the author does present them in a gentle but touching way. She does make you feel the pain and suffering that  Hope has gone through and truly connects you to the character. 

Overall I really enjoyed this story and I cannot wait to read Mollie's future books. I am hoping she writes about one of the characters in this story. I think she could use her own book! (I won't tell you who it is but if you read this I think you will see who I am talking about!)

My Rating: 4 Stars/Really Liked it!

I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.




About the Author


Mollie writes contemporary fiction with a heart for history. What does this mean exactly? She loves to write inspirational fiction in contemporary settings with fascinating historical elements, people, objects, and stories woven throughout.


A modern girl herself– She wouldn’t want to go a day without modern plumbing and central air! But she’s always felt a special connection to the past. The legacies and lives left behind are like gifts waiting to be unwrapped, and she’s excited to share this blend of history and contemporary living with readers.


A born and bred Midwestern gal, Mollie Rushmeyer, makes her home in central Minnesota with her husband and two spunky, beautiful daughters. She is not only a bibliophile (the dustier the better, in her opinion), she’s a true anglophile at heart. Tea and coffee fuel her travels, by Google maps at least, and her passion for the written word.


 

More from Mollie


Since childhood, opening up a book unlocked a whole new world for me. Of possibilities and adventure, and made me care for people and places that didn’t exist. Like stepping through the wardrobe into Narnia, books transported me. It was like magic.


As I began dreaming up The Bookshop of Secrets in its early stages, I knew I wanted to create a character who loved books and was in awe of their transformative and transportive power as much as I am. Thus, Hope Sparrow, a human trafficking survivor and ultimate book lover, was born. I also wanted to honor my grandpa, who planted the seed—love of the written word—in my heart from the time I was very young. And so, Ulysses, the owner of Dusty Jackets Bookshop in the story, is based on my sweet grandpa who has since passed away. But I know he’d love this homage to all things literary.


Afterward, I didn’t know if I’d ever write again and I was more terrified of that than not gaining back the full strength of my left arm.

In the middle of writing this book, in 2018, I had a stroke. As with most medical emergencies, it was quite unexpected. I had a hole in my heart (that has been repaired, thankfully). Afterward, I didn’t know if I’d ever write again and I was more terrified of that than not being able to fully move my left arm again. My brain had to make new connections and it was so difficult, still is some days, to be creative. To find the right words.


But God. In the way that only He can, He brought this forgotten story, this project’s finish line that seemed to be at the summit of an insurmountable mountain within reach. I thought I had something to prove to myself. I begged God not to forget my dream to write. Like He could. But in the end, I just had to trust like my character Hope. Trust that He is good even when life hurts and is uncertain.


“Do you know what the opposite of fear is?”

“Bravery? Peace?” Dare she say her namesake, hope?

“The true counterpart of fear is faith. It takes faith to walk into the future, the unknown, with confidence. Secure in the love of the One who created you and those around you outweighs any hardship, real or imagined, that lies on the path ahead.”


I hope following Hope’s journey of healing and love in The Bookshop of Secrets truly blesses you.




Blog Stops


Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, October 27

lakesidelivingsite, October 27

Inklings and notions, October 28

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 28

Simple Harvest Reads, October 28 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

An Author’s Take, October 29

The Write Escape, October 29

deb’s Book Review, October 29

Texas Book-aholic, October 30

Rebecca Tews, October 30

Blogging With Carol, October 30

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 31

Inspired by fiction, October 31

Life of Literature, October 31

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, November 1

Cover Lover Book Review, November 1

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 2

Losing the Busyness, November 2

For Him and My Family, November 2

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, November 3

Holly’s Book Corner, November 3

Mary Hake, November 3

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, November 4 (Author Interview)

Paula’s Pad of Suspense and Detection, November 4

Blossoms and Blessings, November 4

Sylvan Musings, November 5

Lily’s Book Reviews, November 5

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, November 5

A Reader’s Brain, November 6

Book Looks by Lisa, November 6

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, November 7

Truth and Grace Homeachool Academy, November 7

Story Craft, November 7

Through the fire blogs, November 8

Pause for Tales, November 8

Labor Not in Vain, November 8

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, November 9

To Everything There Is A Season, November 9

Lights in a Dark World, November 9



Giveaway




To celebrate her tour, Mollie is giving away the grand prize package of a eBook or signed paperback copy (paperback U.S. Only) of The Bookshop of Secrets and a $50 Amazon gift card!!


Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.


https://promosimple.com/ps/226c7/the-bookshop-of-secrets-celebration-tour-giveaway




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