Seams Unlikely by Nancy Ziemann

Seams Unlikely:
The Inspiring True Life Story of Nancy Zieman
Author: Nancy Zieman with Marjorie L. Russell
Publisher: Glass Roads Media
ISBN: 9780988478961
Paperback
320 pages
Biography, Memoir

About the Book:

In an age when hard-working women don't know if we should lean in, lean out, or lean on someone, Nancy Zieman's voice of calm, experienced authority is welcome. The lessons she shares are ones every businesswoman should take to heart.

In Seams Unlikely, Nancy:

• Shares her life story for the first time
• Gives details of the onset of Bell's Palsy and how it played a part during school
• Reveals the intricate involvement of 4-H in her development
• Tells, step-by-step, how she grew Nancy's Notions from a basement in her home into a multi-million dollar business
• Includes behind-the-scenes information on the growth of Sewing with Nancy from filming in her living room to a long-term partnership with Wisconsin Public Television
• Shows pictures of the people, buildings, and places that played key roles along the path of her life

Reading of the growth of Nancy's family (she is a married mother of two, one son by birth, one by adoption) alongside the growth of her show and business is both familiar and instructive to working moms. Nancy created solutions in both the workplace and at home, to carve a niche uniquely suited to her situation and talents. It's a goal to which many of us aspire. And Nancy Zieman's story gives us key insight.

About the Author:

Nancy Zieman is host of Sewing with Nancy, TV's longest-running sewing show, which she co-produces with Wisconsin Public Television. It has been on-air since 1982. She is the author of over 40 books, which have sold millions of copies and instructed numerous individuals on the finer points of sewing everything from clothing to quilts to home décor.

Nancy has been married to Richard Zieman for 36 years and they have two sons, Ted and Tom. She continues to host Sewing with Nancy, which her fans loyally tune in to public television to watch. Learn more at SeamsUnlikely.com.

My Thoughts:

Nancy Zieman taught me how to sew. Out of all the sewing books I have, I find myself reaching for her books the most. I've watched her show for years and I am always amazed at all the new things I learn every time I watch one of her shows! I have the deepest respect for Nancy and was thrilled when I had the opportunity to join in the tour for her new biography!

"Seams Unlikely" is a captivating and well written book about Nancy's life. Starting from before she was born up to present time, this book has an in-depth look at her life - and not only from her point of view! In the sidebars of the book, one will find short comments about Nancy or about an important part of her life from those most important to her. This is extremely personal and truly inspirational as Nancy tells things like they are. She's openly discusses her struggle with Bell's Palsy and shares how it both affected her attitude and inspired her to become what she is today.

This book is a true inspiration for anyone that struggles with being different. It shows how Nancy overcame something that could have crippled her if she allowed it to. Her book shows that one doesn't have to be perfect to accomplish those things that seem at times impossible.

Nancy is an amazing woman and this book would be a perfect those that love sewing, enjoy biographies/autobiographies or enjoys reading inspirational works. Make sure to add it to your reading list and consider giving a copy or two away as gifts to your special friends or loved ones.

I highly recommend "Seams Unlikely"!!!!


I received a copy of Seams Unlikely from Glass Road PR for me to review. I was not required to write a favorable review, but instead, one that reflects my honest opinion.

Treasures of Healthy Living by Annette Reeder & Dr. Richard Couey

Treasures of Healthy Living
Author: Annette Reeder & Dr. Richard Couey
Publisher: Pleasant Word-A Division of WinePress Publishing
ISBN-13: 978-1414115702
Paperback: 368 pages

About the Book:

Did you know you can find the answers to many health problems in the pages of Scripture? Think of God's Word as a treasure map that leads straight to the healthy life you've always dreamed of. It reveals how you can move from a sickly, lackluster life to one that is full of energy and hope. This practical Bible study will reveal the truth about the foods you eat and provide simple tools to begin improving your physical, emotional, and spiritual health. You won't believe how much your life can change when you grab hold of the treasures God has provided for you.

My Thoughts

When I received this book, I did not realize that it was to be used in conjunction with the "Healthy Treasures Cookbook". However, there is so much information packed into "Treasures of Healthy Living" that I wasn't disappointed, but instead, want to get the cookbook now!

This 12 week study takes you on a journey to make your life better through diet, exercise and your spiritual well being. It covers such topics as fruits, vegetables, meats, toxins, and exercise and even discusses how things like GMO's affect your health and well being.

This book is filled with so much information that I really want to go back and linger and do a more intensive study. I will say that I don't totally agree with all subjects/points of view, but it is such a great approach to scripture and food, that it is definitely worth a second look!

About the Authors:

Annette Reeder, a Biblical Nutrition Consultant, is leading people all around the country on an adventure with the power of food to change lives one meal and prayer at a time. Annette is a graduate of Liberty University and Huntington College Health Sciences and the founder of Designed Healthy Living a nutrition consulting ministry.

Dr. Richard "Dick" Couey-Professor Emeritus of Health Sciences at Baylor University. Dr. Couey has spent nearly fifty years studying the physiology of the cell. He has especially studied how nutrition, exercise, and stress affect the cell's biochemistry and physiology. Dr. Couey's students praise how Dr. Couey can make the complexities of the cell seem understandable.



I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher for this tour. I was not required to write a positive review, but instead, one that gives my honest opinion.

Win a Bosch Mixer!

Shop Local and Win a Bosch Mixer

Getting healthy happens one meal at a time. Annette Reeder, author of Treasures of Healthy Living, has a lot of great tips on improving what we eat. One of her favorite tips is to shop at your local farmers market. The fruits and vegetables they sell are grown locally and their prices are usually lower than at your grocery store. Plus, their produce is picked at the peak of the season so they contain more nutrients. Shopping at the farmers market also benefits your local farmer and strengthens your local community.

Those are lots of positives, right? Well, here is an extra benefit. If you buy a copy of one of Annette's books and post a picture of yourself with it at your local farmer's market, you could win a Bosch mixer worth over $400! Other prizes include a a $400 cancer screening, a $25 Outback gift card, River's Song by Melody Carlson, and more.

Here are the simple steps to enter the contest:

▪    Buy a copy of one of Annette's books (Treasures of Healthy Living, Treasures of Health Nutrition Manual or the Healthy Treasures Cookbook) and take a picture of yourself with the book at your favorite farmer's market

▪    Like the  Designed Healthy Living Facebook page.

▪    Post your picture on the  Designed Healthy Living Facebook page along with the location of your famers market.

That is it! If you are the first in your state to enter the contest your name will be put in the drawing 10 times. You can enter as many times as you wish - just go to a different farmers market. If you don't have a farmers market in your area, be creative. There is no limit to the number of times you can enter, but you must post a photo from a different farmers market for each entry.

The contest will begins on May 1, 2012 and ends on May 31, 2012. Check Facebook and Twitter for regular updates! New prizes will be uploaded often.


Learn More...

Prizes Grand Prize: Bosch Mixer Additional Prizes $400 Cancer Screening from Ellie Cullen at Your Future Health $25 Outback Gift Card What the Bible Says About Healthy Living Cookbook by Hope Egan Becoming a Woman of Joy, along with the journal and note cards Unwilling Warrior by Andrea Boeshaar Uncertain Heart by Andrea Boeshaar Becoming Lucy by Martha Rogers River's Song by Melody Carlson River's Call by Melody Carlson Bod 4 God by Steve Reynolds  Learn More...

River's Call by Melody Carlson

River's Call
The Inn at Shining Waters - Book 2
Author: Melody Carlson
Publisher: Abingdon Press Fiction
Paperback: 320 pages
ISBN: 9781426712678

About the Book:

What happens when the ties between generations are severed?

It is the 1960s and Anna's daughter, Lauren, is confused, broken-hearted, and pregnant. The difficult situation seems to bring out the worst in the selfish girl. When Lauren chooses to stay with her manipulative Grandma Eunice, Anna worries her daughter will never become a mature adult and the relationship between Lauren, Anna and Eunice becomes even more strained. However, when she hits the lowest point in her life, Lauren returns to her mother, the river, and the Inn and Shining Waters. As time passes, Lauren, now a mother to her own defiant teenager, faces a new crisis, one that puts the entire family at risk.

My Thoughts:

I love everything about this series, from the gorgeous cover art to the captivating storyline to the characters. The characters are quite realistic and their problems are very real. Melody Carlson handles topics that are sensitive and demonstrates how God can help and heal them. She uses problems that affect many of us and tackles these issues to create a series that can be identified with and worth reading.


River's Call picks up where the first book of The Inn at Shining Waters series, River's Song, ended - just after Anna's marriage to Clark. With both on their second marriage, they bring their pasts with them, and Anna's problems become even larger when her self-centered college-aged daughter returns home.

This is the second book in the series, and even though there may be enough back-story to possibly read as a stand-alone, I would recommend not doing so. The first book really sets the stage for this one and makes one understand the relationship that Anna has with Eunice and why Lauren is the way she is.

I enjoy Melody's writing style. Her imagery and prose draws one in. At times I feel like I'm on the river and can smell, feel and hear everything in Anna's world. This is a wonderful series, and I can't wait to read the next book, "River's End"!!

About the Author:

Melody Carlson published her first book in 1995 and she has been writing prolifically ever since. To date, Melody has published over 200 books, making her one of the top 20 most prolific authors of all time. With total sales of over 5 million her award-winning books include: Homeward, Love Finds You in Sisters, Oregon; Limelight; the Diary of a Teenage Girl series; the True Colors series; and the Carter House Girls series.

In her professional life, Melody has worn many hats: from pre-school teacher to political activist to senior editor. Currently, she writes full-time, and freelances from her home. She has two grown sons and lives in Sisters, Oregon with her husband, Chris, and Audrey, her yellow lab. They enjoy skiing, hiking, and biking in the beautiful Cascade Mountains.

This book was provided by the author/publisher for this tour. I was not required to write a positive review, but instead, one that gives my honest opinion.

The Qur'an Dilemma - Glass Road PR Tour

The Qur'an Dilemma (English version) Volume 1
Authors: Former Muslims and professional Islamic scholars
Publisher: Water Life Publishing
ISBN: 9781935577034

A book of terror or a book of peace? An inspired text or a political agenda? How is one to know the truth about the Qur'an? Where does one even begin? How can an English speaker ever hope to wade through the history, the translations, the sects, and the commentaries to begin making sense of the issues?

During the last decade, interest in Islam and the teachings of the Qur'an has grown globally. In order to allow Westerners to investigate the truth about Islam, this research text was translated from Arabic to give English speaking readers the opportunity to see the Qur’an with clear lenses that are not fogged by propaganda or missionary zeal. This book provides the background of the Qur'an in an objective manner . It also presents the text of the Qur’an with parallel commentary, addressing important issues that Muslim scholars have wrestled with throughout the centuries, shedding light on their attempts to solve them and giving a rounded view of the various schools of thought.

The critical approach in this book is inspired by the courageous tradition of those who have dared to analyze the Qur'an throughout history, while also incorporating the contemporary intellectual productions available in Arabic and foreign sources. The discoveries made through these scholarly critical methods are directed to non-Muslims and Muslims equally:

To non-Muslims who want to unravel the mysteries of Islam, this book presents information that Islamic resources rarely disclose--to allow those who seek the truth to comprehend the full picture with all its outlines, colors, and dimensions.

To Muslims who seek genuine choices far from the culture of “indoctrination,” this book opens a world of understanding to them, so that they can decide for themselves their intellectual and spiritual paths.

The Quran Dilemma (Volume One) – available now both in English and in Arabic - covers the first nine suras (chapters) of the Quran.  The remaining suras will be covered in Volume Two, due for release in 2011.  Articles and commentary found throughout this masterfully executed book – which explain and analyze each sura - are based on authoritative Islamic sources.

Make sure to visit The Qur'an.com to download a sample and to see the special offer of 25% off this Volume. 

My Thoughts

First, I must comment on the physical appearance of this volume. When I removed "The Qur'an Dilemma" from the package, I was struck by its beauty. This burgundy and gold hardcover gives a hint of what it holds inside. The artwork on each page plus that found between each sura is no less than stunning. This makes this volume not only a wonderful resource, but a beautiful gift for anyone who is interested in world religions or Muslim teachings.

This is far from a light read, and although I read through it quickly the first time to finish for the tour, but I will admit I am reading it again slowly because of how the book is written. I missed so much the first time through! This is a book that is written for the scholar, but at the same time, for someone who just wants to study and learn more about the Qur'an and its teachings.

I was very, very surprised with what I was taught the Qur'an held, and what it actually there. I was taught that it was a peaceful teaching, but what I'm finding is something different. My heart broke when I read about the belief towards women and to learn that one that follows the teachings is not even allowed to befriend someone of a different faith!

I cannot even begin to cover what I have learned so far, and I'm looking forward to finishing the book and getting the other volumes. "The Qur'an Dilemma" is nothing less than amazing and to have a translation in my hands that I can read and understand makes me aware of how much I do not know. Like those who hear about a book and do not read it, one really never knows what is held in those pages but can only rely on others to tell the truth.

This volume is an eye-opener and one that should be considered to be added to every Christian's library.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!

I received a copy of "The Qur'an Dilemma" to read and honestly review for this tour.

Wayward Son by Tom Pollack

Wayward Son
by Tom Pollack with Jim Alves and John Loftus
Publisher: Cascada
ISBN: 978-1450755634
Paperback
512 pages

About the Book

Buried near Italy's Mount Vesuvius is a remarkable observatory containing artifacts dating to the earliest record of human events. Only one person-the Getty Museum's Amanda James-can unlock the mysterious doors that guard the chamber.
But once inside, Amanda is shocked to discover evidence left behind by a notorious biblical killer-who long ago wandered off the pages of history.

The first novel of a series, Wayward Son takes the reader on an amazing voyage, where epic adventures in Egypt, Greece, China and Rome collide with modern-day intrigue and suspense.

My Thoughts:

This historical fiction novel with a Biblical twist, will keep readers turning the pages to find out what happens next! Centering around Amanda James and her ability to read ancient languages, the story takes her to Italy to decipher a startling find. Her discovery leads to a remarkable and unusual adventure around a very well known person of Biblical history. I was pulled into the story and really had a hard time putting it down and makes me yearn for the next book in the series!

"Wayward Son" jumps between past and present and brings to life some very exciting times in history. If you  enjoy historical fiction, Biblical fiction, or stories about archaeological finds, you will enjoy this book. There is a Christian message, but not a blaring in-your-face type, so this novel should be enjoyed by everyone and not just the Christian audience.

About the Authors:

Tom Pollack (center) has a passion for sailing, which led him to a friendship with Roy Disney, and ultimately to the release of Walt Disney Pictures' critically acclaimed motion picture, Morning Light. The film is based on Tom's original idea of documenting the exploits of a group of college-aged sailors recruited to compete against seasoned pros in the Trans-Pacific race from Southern California to Hawaii.

Tom graduated from Loyola Marymount University with a bachelor's degree in political science. He resides in Dana Point with his wife, Jennifer, and their two children. Tom serves as President of the Mission Basilica School Foundation in San Juan Capistrano and the Chairman of ExplorOcean, Newport Beach's popular nautical museum.

Jim Alves (left) recently completed a 25-year career in bond sales and trading. He graduated from The University of Massachusetts with a bachelor's degree in finance and economics. He currently is Chief Executive Officer of Prometheus Holdings, a financial consulting firm. Jim resides in San Clemente, California with his wife Jackie and their two young boys, having successfully launched two older sons from the nest.

John Loftus (right) spent 23 years at Pacific Investment Management Company (PIMCO), where as a Managing Director he focused on new product development and marketing. A graduate of Stanford University and the Stanford Graduate School of Business, his writings have been published in various financial journals and textbooks. Now President of Cascada Productions, John is also active in philanthropy and the non-profit sector. An Ohio native, John resides in Newport Beach, California, with his wife, Lori. They have three grown children and two grandchildren.

If you would like to learn more, please visit the authors' page at: http://www.waywardsonnovel.com/

I received an e-copy of this book to read and honestly review for this tour.

"Homeward" by Melody Carlson - Glass Road Tour with Review

Homeward: A Novel
Author: Melody Carlson
Publisher: Multnomah Books
ISBN: 9781576730294 (paperback)
Also available in E-book format

From bestselling author Melody Carlson comes this award-winning story of three generations of Lancaster women. For twenty years Meg Lancaster has avoided Briar Hedge, the Lancaster family estate. Now she has been drawn back to her grandmother's home to uncover secrets that have been hidden for decades and to try to regain the family she long ago abandoned.


Winner of Romance Writers of America Rita Award.

My Thoughts: 

This is a story that every woman will be able to identify with. It is a story of Meg Lancaster who returns home after being away for 20 years. When she returns, she's not sure if she will be accepted or forgiven for past transgressions and for being away for so long without any communication with her mother or grandmother. She discovers that mending fences isn't easy on her part, and she needs to learn how to forgive and move on.

This story was one that truly touched my heart and my conscience in a number of ways. Anyone woman that has/had a mother will be able to identify at some level with Meg. The difficulty of returning to your family and trying to get past arguments, bitter words, and resentments of things that happened in childhood are familiar with just about everyone. Things that took place in this story made my heart pound in my chest at times and made me cry other times. This novel is emotional and packs a powerful message of the healing power of forgiveness.

Make sure to add this one to your reading list, but remember, keep the tissues handy.

About the Author

Melody Carlson published her first book in 1995 and she has been writing prolifically ever since. To date, Melody has published over 200 books, making her one of the top 20 most prolific authors of all time. With total sales of over 1.4 million her award-winning books include: Homeward, Love Finds You in Sisters, Oregon; Limelight; the Diary of a Teenage Girl series; the True Colors series; and the Charter House Girls series.

In her professional life, Melody has worn many hats: from pre-school teacher to political activist to senior editor. Currently, she writes full-time, and freelances from her home. She has two grown sons and lives in Sisters, Oregon with her husband, Chris, and Bailey, her chocolate lab. They enjoy skiing, hiking, and biking in the beautiful Cascade Mountains.

This e-book was supplied by Glass Road PR for me to honestly review.

"River's Song" by Melody Carlson - Glass Road Tour with Review

River's Song
Inn at Shining Waters: Book 1
Author: Melody Carlson
Publisher: Abingdon Press
ISBN: 9781426712661

About the Book:

Her relationship with her daughter in shambles and tensions mounting with her mother-in-law, Anna Larson returns to her childhood home on the banks of the Suislaw River to sort out her parent's belongings and put the pieces of her own life back together.

Embracing her native heritage for the first time since childhood Anna transforms her old family home into Shining Waters Inn, a place she hopes will give her family a new beginning.

River's Song is Book One in the Inn at Shining Waters series.

My Thoughts:

Taking place in 1959, Anna Larson, is a descendant of the Suislaw Indians of Oregon, and because of her heritage, she is treated as a substandard human. She faces racism and emotional abuse from her mother-in-law for the sake of her husband and daughter. When she returned home to bury her mother, she realizes that she really doesn't want to return to that life.

This beautiful and well written story carries some powerful messages: realization of self-worth, the power of racism and emotional abuse over another, and most importantly, the power of faith and healing. "River's Song" illustrates how emotional abuse can affect a person and how they end up staying in an abusive situation, but more importantly, how they can leave and heal.

I found this novel a most enjoyable read. The descriptions of the river made me want to pack up and go there - they were so realistic and it sounded like such a beautiful place. Nature has always been a place of comfort for me, so I could really identify with Anna's love for the river.

Although I loved the whole storyline, I felt the end was rushed. I wanted to linger more with the events that were occurring. I needed descriptions, more interaction between characters and what was happening. So for me, the ending was a bit disappointing. That small gripe won't keep me from wanting to read the next in the series, though. I'm really looking forward to the next book!

About the Author

Melody Carlson published her first book in 1995 and she has been writing prolifically ever since. To date, Melody has published over 200 books, making her one of the top 20 most prolific authors of all time. With total sales of over 1.4 million her award-winning books include: Homeward, Love Finds You in Sisters, Oregon; Limelight; the Diary of a Teenage Girl series; the True Colors series; and the Charter House Girls series.

In her professional life, Melody has worn many hats: from pre-school teacher to political activist to senior editor. Currently, she writes full-time, and freelances from her home. She has two grown sons and lives in Sisters, Oregon with her husband, Chris, and Bailey, her chocolate lab. They enjoy skiing, hiking, and biking in the beautiful Cascade Mountains.

Book was supplied through Glass Road PR for me to honestly review.

Blog Tour: "ALMOST HEAVEN" by Chris Fabry

Almost Heaven
Author: Chris Fabry
Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers, Inc
ISBN: 9781414319575
Genre: Christian fiction

About the Book (from the back cover)

"Some people say Billy Allman has a heart of gold. Others say he's a bit odd. The truth is, they're all right. He's a hillbilly genius—a collector, a radio whiz—and he can make the mandolin sing. Though he dreams of making an impact on the world beyond the hills and hollers of Dogwood, West Virginia, things just always seem to go wrong.


But however insignificant Billy's life seems, it has not gone unnoticed. Malachi is an angel sent to observe and protect Billy. Though it's not his dream assignment, Malachi always follows orders. And as Billy's story unfolds, Malachi slowly begins to see the bigger picture—that each step Billy takes is a note added to a beautiful song that will forever change the lives of those who hear it."

My Thoughts:

WOW! This book took my on an emotional roller-coaster ride that left me feeling breathless and totally satisfied. I found myself at times laughing, crying, and scared out of my wits. This is far from your average Christian fiction book, and has left a definite impression on me. An impression that I will not forget in a long, long time.

Billy Allman is the perfect example of God's purpose. Billy shouldn't have been around, but he had a purpose in life. God needed him. We don't always see things when they happen, and question why they happen, but as life goes on and you look back, you really do see how things all fell into place. Billy's story proves this.

This is one book that needs to be read. If you have ever questioned your purpose for being here, why things happen, or wonder what the bigger picture is, this book is for you. If you just want to read a fantastic and heartbreaking, yet heart-tugging story, this book is for you. If you want to be inspired, this book is for you. It's a book that really and truly can make you feel that there is a real reason we are all here.

About the Author:

Chris Fabry is the host of Chris Fabry Live!, an hour of spiritual encouragement from his backyard radio fence. The program challenges listeners to think biblically about their spiritual journeys. Chris is also the author of the Christy Award-winning novel Dogwood, and his latest fiction release, June Bug. He and his family live near Tucson, Arizona. You can learn more about Chris at www.chrisfabry.com

This book was sent to me through Glass Road PR for me to honestly review.

"The Black Madonna" by Davis Bunn - Glass Road Tour & Review

The Black Madonna
Author: Davis Bunn
Touchstone, September 2010
Trade Paperback, 336 pages
ISBN-10: 1416556338
ISBN-13: 9781416556336

About the Book: (from publisher's website)

Antiques expert Storm Syrrell heads to Europe to investigate the clandestine trade in religious artifacts. She dismisses superstitious tales of miraculous healings and divine omens. Yet when an obsessive Russian oligarch calls—just as her friend Harry Bennett vanishes—all assumptions must be cast aside. Storm seeks answers in a medieval monastery. There, the scarred visage of an icon provokes ever more startling questions. Is she prepared to confront both earthly and spiritual powers? Storm remains haunted by lessons in love and betrayal that lie just outside her grasp. But hesitation now holds mortal consequences.

Read Chapter One Now

My Thoughts:

If you haven't read anything by Davis Bunn (aka T. Davis Bunn), now is the time to do so! Bunn has an amazing style that draws the reader in and keeps him/her in suspense until the very last page.

The Black Madonna starts in the Judean Desert and soon becomes international, centering around an antiques dealer, an archeologist, a businessman, and a Homeland Security agent. What do they all have in common? Byzantine artifacts.

This novel had me captivated and on the edge of my seat more times than I care to count. There were times I couldn't read fast enough to find out what was going to happen next. With all the twists and turns, I never figured out the ending. After reading the last page, I had to go back to re-read it to make sure I read it correctly.

The storyline was exciting and the characters, especially the main, all had their flaws, making them both realistic and interesting. My favorites were Storm who deals in antiques (the main character) and Raphael, her "boss". They both carry a past that leaves them guarded yet assertive. Both are very strong characters, and both know exactly what they are after. These two definitely made the storyline work!

I had no idea this was the second book in the series, as it read like a stand-alone. The first book, "Gold of Kings" has made my must read list. I am hoping there will be more to the series as I really want this book to continue!

About the Author

Davis Bunn is the author of numerous national bestsellers in genres spanning historical sagas, contemporary thrillers, and inspirational gift books. He has received widespread critical acclaim, including three Christy Awards for excellence in fiction, and his books have sold more than six million copies in sixteen languages. He and his wife, Isabella, are affiliated with Oxford University, where Davis serves as writer in residence at Regent's Park College. He lectures internationally on the craft of writing.

If you would like to learn more about Davis Bunn or his books, please visit his website at: http://www.davisbunn.com

Photo by: I. D. Bunn

Book was supplied through Glass Road PR for me to honestly review.

"For Time & Eternity" by Allison Pittman - Glass Road Book Tour & Review

For Time & Eternity (Book 1 of the Sister Wife Series)
Author: Allison Pittman
Publisher: Tyndale
ISBN: 9781414335964
Genre: Fiction, Christian Fiction, Romance, Historical Fiction

About the Book: (from author's website)

"When Camilla Deardon hears their songs coming on a breeze, they sound just like the songs in her own church. This is all she knows of the Mormons camping near her family's farm. Mama and Papa warned her to stay away, but she doesn't understand their fear, especially after meeting a young Mormon man named Nathan Fox. So handsome. So charming. His eyes hold the very image of this Zion he talks about, and his step seems a promise to take her there.

Though Camilla knows she should obey her parents, she can't refuse her heart. But Nathan's promises can never prepare her for what she will face in Utah. She's been willing to share her husband's faith, but can she share her marriage with another woman?"

Have a peek inside the book

My Thoughts:

"For Time & Eternity" is both a fascinating and emotional read - one that will be long remembered. Being written in the first person, it pulls you into the heart and mind of the main character, Camilla. She tells her story with both passion and great emotion, creating her to be both realistic and believable. She captured my heart from the beginning, with her honesty and spirit.

The story begins in 1850 when Camilla is only 15 years old. She is innocent and naive and doesn't understand why her parents don't like the Mormon camp that is near their farm. She meets Nathan Fox who lives at the camp and befriends him. He tells her they, too, believe in Jesus, making her to not understand why these people are chastised. He speaks against her father, and she believes what she is told. Camilla falls in love with the charming boy and runs away with him when the camp moves on. It is after she leaves and gets more involved with their beliefs that she finds how different their beliefs are.

I have never read anything by Allison Pittman before, and after this book, I will definitely be looking for more. This has to be one of the best books I read this month. It was impossible to put down! I have only one complaint - this book ends way too quickly, and now I have to wait for book two to come out.

This book has fantastic insight into the Mormon religion - but then both Allison and her husband know all about Mormonism, since they grew up with it. I HIGHLY recommend this book!!!

About the Author:

Allison Pittman is the author of Stealing Home, the Crossroads of Grace series, and her nonfiction debut, Saturdays With Stella. A former high-school English teacher, she serves as director of the theater arts group at her church. She is also the co-president of a dynamic Christian writers group in the San Antonio, Texas area, where she makes her home with her husband and their three boys.

Would you like to learn more about Alison or about her next project?  You can visit her website at: http://www.allisonpittman.com/

This book was supplied through Glass Road PR for me to honestly review.

Virtual Book Tour & Review: "David and Goliath" by Bryan Hathaway

David and Goliath: The Guardian Angel Chronicles
Author: Bryan Hathaway
Publisher: WinePress Publishing
ISBN: 9781606150153
Genre: fiction, Christian fiction

About the Book (from back cover):

"David Liberty is a broken, lonely, and embittered old man. With his mind still intact but trapped in a physically failing body, doomed to spend his last remaining days in a nursing home, David welcomes his impending death — his escape from life.


All that changes when he is visited by an angel, Joelle, who confronts his past failings and offers David a second chance at life. At first David scoffs, but the chance to renew his body and live again intrigues him. But there is an extraordinary condition: “You will demonstrate to God through your actions that you believe and love Him,” Joelle announces. David must help others reignite their faith so they do not lose their eternity. Faith with works, David soon learns, is a living faith.


Temporarily escaping the walls of his nursing home, David is thrown into the lives of people he begins to care deeply for. He hopes to reunite them with God, but he discovers another obstacle — the angel has removed David’s ability to speak. His actions alone will define who he is. In addition, David must fight a powerful enemy, who seeks to destroy God’s children any way he can — and David, as well!"

My Thoughts:

Books about spiritual warfare are far from new, yet when I sat down to read this one, I knew it was different. From the beginning Mr. Hathaway captures your heart with his main character, David. David was a successful speaker who taught others how to be successful, but along the way, he lost everything he cherished: his son, his marriage, his youth, his health, and God.

This book has pulled me through many emotions from crying one moment to laughing the next, and then sitting on the edge of my seat to see who succeeds as each of David's tasks becomes more difficult. This was a difficult book to put down, and will be even harder waiting for book two to come out!!! Mr. Hathaway has definitely caught my attention with this first book of his series. He is one author that I'm going to keep on my watch list.

About the Author:

A physical therapy clinic and fitness center owner, Bryan Hathaway has dedicated his life to helping people heal. To reach individuals at a spiritual level, Bryan has taken his knowledge of scripture and love for fiction and combined the two in his own series of novels, The Guardian Angel Chronicles. Recipient of “The small business of the year award” in 2003, Bryan speaks at local schools and churches on subjects like: “Winning in sports and winning in life,” and “Success after school.” His speaking topics are all inspired by tragedies in his own life where he learned firsthand about the fragility of life. Bryan enjoys his family and faith, the outdoors, sports, physical fitness, writing music, and a good philosophical debate. The Hathaways reside in upstate New York.

To learn more about Mr. Hathaway, you can visit his page at: http://www.bryanhathaway.com/

Book was supplied by Glass Road for me to honestly review.

Blog Tour & Review: Six-Liter Club by Harry Kraus, MD

Six-Liter Club
Author: Harry Kraus, MD
Publisher: Howard Books
ISBN-13: 9781416577973
Genre: Christian fiction, fiction, medical fiction

About the Book: (from Glass Road):

Dr. Camille Weller is the first African American female attending in the trauma surgical department at the Medical College of Virginia (where Kraus earned his M.D.). On her first day, she joins the Six-Liter Club - a reference to an elite group of doctors who have saved a patient after the patient loses six-liters of blood. Exhilarated, she decides to do something about the antiquated "doctors" and "nurses" signs on the locker room doors and changes clothes with the "doctors." She'll also blow their prejudices about skin color out of the water. Yet Camille has far more to overcome than preconceived notions about her skin color or sex...she's having nightmares about her childhood in the Congo, a dark closet, whispered words, and strong arms holding her back.

Sneak Peek: Read an EXCERPT HERE.

My Thoughts:

This was a fascinating story of an African American woman who comes to terms with her past while dealing with her present. Camille Weller's mother was African, and her father was a white American doctor that was helping in the Congo. The storyline jumps between Camille's memories in the Congo in 1964 to her present time in Richmond, VA in 1984.

As the story unfolds, so do her memories and they become a huge part of the struggles she deals with, on top of being a woman surgeon in a man's profession. This makes for an interesting read. The profession is difficult enough, and she has to make some moral/ethical choices that put her job on the line.

I really enjoyed Camille's character. She is an amazingly strong woman, who has learned to cope with what she was given. She isn't a saint, and makes many mistakes, but that gives her character believability and depth.

This is a wonderful story about struggles and achievements, pain and healing, sadness and hope and most of all, forgiveness and love. There is a Christian message that runs throughout the book, but the mainstream fiction reader should have no problem with it. I found this book to be very realistic, and an great read. I'm looking forward to reading more books by Dr. Kraus. I enjoyed his style and he seemed to nail the female character perfectly.


About the Author:

Harry Kraus has brought surgical skill to medical missions on four continents. Most recently, he returned to Somalia for a short stay. His family (wife, Kris, and three sons) is contemplating a return to Kenya for three years. He could stay in Virginia, building his surgical practice, storing wealth and acquiring house after house, car after car - but that isn't where Harry's heart lies.

Harry Kraus watched the Twin Towers fall on 9/11. He was at Ground Zero providing medical services to those who managed to escape the falling buildings. He saw firsthand the result of human relationships that lack love for fellow man. He determined to spend his life pouring love into human hearts. In Africa, he is often asked by Muslim patients why he would come halfway around the world to take care of them for no pay. Harry smiles. He tells them about the unconditional love He received from a Savior.

If you would like to learn more about Harry, make sure to visit his website at: http://www.harrykraus.com/index.html

This book was supplied by Glass Road for me to honestly review.

Blog Tour & Review: "Allon" by Shawn Lamb

Allon: Book 1
Author: Shawn Lamb
Publisher: Creation House
ISBN: 9781599798912
Genre: YA Fantasy

Synopsis (taken from the back of the book):

"The Forces of Evil Grow Stronger ...

Long ago, the land of Allon was a paradise until the fall of the Guardians paved the way for the rise of the Dark Way. King Marcellus now controls the land as his forefathers did, with an iron fist and the help of the evil spirit, Dagar. But an ancient prophecy speaks of a time to come when the Guardians will return and Allon will be restored—lead by its rightful heir.

At sixteen, Prince Ellis is forced to flee from the life he has known, pursued by the King’s soldiers. With help from two mysterious strangers he meets in the forest, he must find a way to defeat the evil forces and prove himself worthy to be king if Allon is to have any hope of salvation. Along the way he will face trials that test his character, his wisdom, his courage, and ultimately, his heart.

'Allon' is a magical tale of adventure, destiny, and faith that you won’t soon forget."

My Thoughts:

"Allon" is a brilliantly written book that captivated me from the beginning to the end. It's good vs. evil theme had me at the edge of my seat more than once. To me the storyline is classic fantasy, with knights, kings, queens, gods.... and of course, magic - everything I look for in a fantasy.

The characters are well developed and I couldn't help by cheer on Prince Ellis and Shannon. They are good and righteous and want the best for all. The Guardians were interesting creatures - much what I would think angels to be, and of course, Dagar and the Shadow Warriors I likened with Satan and his fallen angels.

I adored this book and I found it to be a wonderful read. I am anxious for the next book of the series to come out. I am highly recommending it to both young adults and adults. "Allon" is a wonderful book to escape with and would make a wonderful summer read. Both of my teens are looking forward to reading it this summer. I know they will love it!



About the Author:

Shawn lives in Antioch, Tennessee, just outside Nashville with her husband of nearly 25 years and their college age daughter, Briana. Shawn pursued her love of writing and took it to a professional level, writing for the 1980s Filmation animated series "BRAVESTARR". Along the way, she won several screenwriting awards, including a Certificate of Merit from the American Screenwriters Association.

Taking the skills of writing for televison along with experience of working with kids and teens, she began work on the series ALLON. The results are stories of faith to believe and overcome obstacles, commitment to a cause, and the endurance to see it through to the end.

To learn more about the author you can visit her website at: http://www.allonbooks.com/ and her blog at: http://allonbooks-thekingdomofallon.blogspot.com/

This book was provided by Glass Road PR for me to honestly review.