Guess Who Noah's Boat by Matt Mitter; illustrated by Ela Jarzabek

Guess Who Noah's Boat is a board book written for children ages 2 to 4 years.  Each page has flaps to lift up and the book is a nice sturdy.  The illustrations are cute and done in bright, vibrant colors.

I was excited to read this book with my 2 year old son.  He loved the pictures and was thoroughly excited about lifting each of the flaps throughout the book.  We even played peek-a-boo with the front cover since the lion's hands fold down to reveal 2 little bunnies.  My son had also learned about the story of Noah's Ark in his class at church recently, so this was a fun little story for us to read together.

I would definitely recommend this little book!  It would make a great gift or just another fun book to add to your growing library.

***I received this book free from Kregel in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions are my own.

Surprise at Yorktown (Adventures in Odyssey's Imagination Station book 15) by Marianne Hering and Nancy I. Sanders

The Imagination Station series headed out on an adventure that traveled back to the American Revolution that lasted for not only one book, but 3 different books.  The first book, The Red Coats are Coming (book 13) started this fun adventure of exploring the American Revolution by taking the cousins, Beth and Patrick, back in time to Yorktown.  You can read my review of that book by clicking here.  The second book, Captured on the High Seas (book 14), takes the cousins for an adventure on a American ship that is captured by the British.  And the newest and last book in this adventure, Surprise at Yorktown (book 15), ends with the surrender of the British at Yorktown.

Find out more about this newest book by reading the summary about the book and my review.
From the Back Cover:
"We need a miracle," Patrick said, "or this war will never end!"

Travel through history with Patrick and Beth and witness the battle of Yorktown, 1781.  Trouble starts in an underground den where the cousins discover British General Cornwallis's secret plan to win the war.  They must escape to warn George Washington--the future of the United States is at stake.  Along the way they meet a mysterious courier, James Armistead.  But is he traitor or friend?  In this final American Revolution adventure, Patrick and Beth struggle to escape from the enemy camp, survive a terrifying storm, and doge exploding cannonballs.  Will they be able to save their country--and their lives?

My Review:
I thought that this was a great wrap up to the 3 book series on the American Revolution.  I love how the story brings history to life and helps kids to connect the events of history together in their minds.  It also stirs up the want to actually see these sites in real life!  How fun would it be to read this 3 book series and then have a family trip to where it all really happened?!   These books are so great for kids ages 7 and up as they are exciting little adventures that also teach history and Christian moral principles.  So pick up these three books and learn a little about the American Revolution while reading an exciting story!

Make sure to check out the list of the books in this series here.

***I received this book free from Tyndale Publishing Company.  All opinions are my own. 

The Daugher of Highland Hall by Carrie Turansky

Carrie Turansky's second book in the Edwardian Brides Series, The Daughter of Highland Hall,  just released on October 7, 2014.  I was excited to continue this series after reading her first book.  You can read my review of the first book Governess of Highland Hall here.  Check out the summary of the book, my review and about the author to find out more about this fun series!  And don't forget to enter in time for the last giveaway on October 31st!  The link for entering is listed below.

 About the book: 

What if the title, the estate, the life of security and splendor . . . what if it isn't enough?

Strong-willed and beautiful, debutante Katherine Ramsey feels ready to take the London social season by storm, and she must. Her family estate, Highland Hall, has been passed to older male cousin Sir William Ramsey, and her only means of securing her future is to make a strong debut and find a proper husband. With her all-knowing and meddling aunt as a guide, Katherine is certain to attract suitors at the lavish gatherings, sparkling with Great Britain's elite.

When a shocking family scandal sidelines Katherine, forcing her out of the social spotlight, she keeps a low profile, volunteering with the poor in London's East End. Here Katherine feels free from her predictable future, and even more so as a friendship with medical student Jonathan Foster deepens and her faith in God grows. But when Katherine is courted anew by a man of wealth and position, dreams of the life she always thought she wanted surface again. Torn between tradition and the stirrings in her heart for a different path, she must decide whom she can trust and love---and if she will choose a life serving others over one where she is served.

My Review:

I thought this book was a fun, easy read and a great continuation of the Ramsey family's story.  The Daughter of Highland Hall picks up the story with the eldest daughter of the late Randolph Ramsey, Katherine Ramsey.  Katherine is only concerned about one thing--finding a husband who will inherit a large estate and money.  But as the social season gets underway, Katherine begins to question whether riches are the only reason one gets married.  I liked seeing the transformation of Katherine as she encountered situations that were beyond her control.  Many times in our lives we are met with circumstances that force us to see what is really valuable in life and worth living for.   Another great theme in this story is the one of forgiveness.  William and his brother David have been at odds for a long time, and with David's current mess, society would expect William to turn his back.  But William extends forgiveness and love even when it isn't popular.  Carrie Turnasky has put out another great novel to put on your shelf.  So make sure to pick this one up!  And don't forget to enter Carrie Turansky's giveaway by clicking here!

 ***I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions are my own.

Learn more, purchase a copy, and read an excerpt: http://ow.ly/C7LAY

About the author: 

Carrie Turansky is an award-winning author of more than a dozen novels and novellas. She has written contemporary and historical romances, women's fiction, short stories, articles, and devotionals. She lives in New Jersey with her husband, Scott, and they have five adult children and four grandchildren.

Find Carrie online: website, Facebook, Twitter

KEEPERS OF THE COVENANT Kindle Giveaway and Live Author Chat with Lynn Austin!

  Lynn Austin's newest book in The Restoration Chronicle series is out!  Keepers of the Covenant is the second book in the series.  Read below to find out about this exciting new book, a giveaway and a live author chat!  You can also read my review of the first book in this series, Return to Me, here. 

About the book: 

The Old Testament Comes to Thrilling Life in the Latest from Lynn Austin

In one life-changing moment, the lives of the Jewish exiles in Babylon are thrown into confusion and despair when a decree arrives from the king's palace in Susa. It calls for the annihilation of every Jewish man, woman, and child throughout the empire on the thirteenth day of Adar, in less than one year. Ezra, a quiet Jewish scholar and teacher, is suddenly called upon to lead the community as they seek God for a reason for this catastrophe. When a second decree arrives, authorizing them to fight back, Ezra is thrust into the role of military leader as they defend themselves against their enemies.

When the battles come to an end, Ezra's brother Jude is dead and Ezra is required by the Law he so diligently studies to marry Jude's widow, Devorah, and provide an heir. Fatherhood changes Ezra, and he asks God to make a way for him and the other exiles to leave Babylon for good and return to Jerusalem. His prayers are answered and the exiles move to Judea to revitalize worship at the temple---but the fight to keep God's Law is never easy. As more and more of his community are tempted, a new battle emerges . . . this one for the survival of God's covenant and the souls of His chosen faithful.

My Review:

Lynn Austin is definitely one of my favorite author.  I was so excited to get the second book of this series since the first one was phenomenal!  This second book did not disappoint.  I love how her novels push me to want to read the actual biblical account of the story after finishing her books.  This continuation of the story of Israel in Babylon brought out many situations I hadn't thought through before.  When reading through the story of Esther, I always thought about Esther and her plight, but never really considered all that the Israelites would of felt facing the edict of their impending death from the King.  It's brought about a different perspective for me to consider while reading about God's chosen people.  The author has done a wonderful job breathing life into the characters of the story.  Her writing draws you into the story and takes you on a journey that will make a lasting impact on how you'll view the Scriptures dealing with the Jew's exile.  I highly suggest you pick up this series.  It's one that you'll definitely want to add to your library!  If you would like to read other reviews about this book, click here to head over to the blog tour.

**I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions are my own.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/C7ss8

About the Author: 

Bestselling author Lynn Austin has sold more than one million copies of her books worldwide. She is an eight-time Christy Award winner for her historical novels, as well as a popular speaker at retreats and conventions. Lynn and her husband have raised three children and live near Chicago.

Find Lynn online: website, Facebook

Lynn Austin's newest book in The Restoration Chronicles series is out!  Keepers of the Covenant.

Lynn Austin is back with the next book in The Restoration Chronicles series, Keepers of the Covenant. Austin weaves together the struggles and stories of both Jews and Gentiles, creating a tapestry of faith and doubt, love and loss. Here, the Old Testament comes to life, demonstrating the everlasting hope displayed in God's unwavering love for His people.

Giveaway and Live Author Chat

Lynn is celebrating with a Kindle HDX giveaway and a live author chat webcast on October 21st.

One winner will receive:

• A Kindle HDX
• Keepers of the Covenant by Lynn Austin

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on October 21st. Winner will be announced at the Keepers of the Covenant LIVE webcast event on October 21st. Connect with Lynn for a fascinating evening centered around God's unwavering love for His people. She'll be hosting a Biblical fiction book club discussion, giving away prizes, answering your questions, offering an exclusive peek at the next book in The Restoration Chronicles, and much more!

So grab your copy of Keepers of the Covenant and join Lynn and friends on the evening of October 21st 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 by signing up for a reminder. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 21st!

Celebrate Carrie Turansky's Book Launch--Daughter of Highland Hall by Entering her Giveaway!

Carrie Turansky is celebrating her newest book release with several giveaways!  Take time to enter and win one of these great packages.

Info about the Giveaway:

The Daughter of Highland Hall Giveaways:  We’re offering five Edwardian Prize Packages, and we’re giving the first one away on Launch Day, Oct. 7th. But you can continue to enter all month. The other four prize packages will be given away on October 10, 17, 24, and 31! Check back each Friday to see if you are a winner.  The October 7th package has already been won, but there are 4 more up for grabs.  So make sure to enter by clicking here!

October 10th Prize Package includes a Downton Abbey 2015 Calendar, An Edwardian style necklace from Belle on a Budget, A lovelyEnglish bone china tea cup, and a copy of The Daughter of Highland Hall.
October 17th Prize Package includes a canister of Downton Abbey Tea, London Clock Tower necklace, a lovely English bone china tea cup, and a copy of The Daughter of Highland Hall.

October 24th Prize Package includes a Downton Abbey Puzzle, An antique key beaded pendant from Belle on a Budget, a lovely tea cup, and a copy of The Daughter of Highland Hall.

October 31 Prize Package includes A Year in the Life of Downton Abbey hard cover book, Set of four Downton Abbey Coasters, an lovely English bone china teacup, and a copy of The Daughter of Highland Hall.

 

Choosing Gratitude: Your Journey to Joy by Nancy Leigh Demoss

Nancy Leigh Demoss has written a compelling book about how to have Joy in our lives.  Gratitude is something we have to choose daily.  Often it is not going to be our first thought when going through a trial or when something comes into our lives that gets us upset, worried, anxious, or depressed.  The first part of this book has 9 chapters that develop the author's thoughts about how to purposely choose gratitude in your life.  The second half of this book includes a 30-Day Devotional Guide that will help you to implement the ideas you've learned in the first half of the book. 
I thought the author presented her thoughts well and helped to move the reader to consider the reader's own attitude toward others, circumstances and her relationship with God.  The book was an easy read and definitely applicable to the reader's life.  It's easy to take everything we've been given for granted.  This book is a great reminder that God has blessed us with so much in life from possessions, to relationships, to life itself. 

***I received this free book from Moody Publishers in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions are my own.

The Legend of the Candy Cane by Lori Walburg, Illustrated by Richard Cowdrey

Have you ever heard the story behind the famous Christmas candy--the candy cane?  The Legend of the Candy Cane is an inspirational story written by Lorie Walburg that walks through the meaning of our traditional red and white candies we hang on our Christmas trees each year.  This board book story is written for children ages 4-8.

I was excited that this book was a board book since I have a two year old who loves books, but ultimately destroys them as he tries to "read" them.  This book is filled with wonderful illustrations that are colorful and detailed.  The illustrations bring the story to life.  The author did a great job keeping the story on the 4-8 year old level, but I'm thinking that even my two year old will love this book.  I'm planning on wrapping up this book as one of our Christmas books we open as we count down to Christmas day.  So check out this cute little book.  This would be such a great book to give as a gift for Christmas especially with some candy canes! 

***I received this free book from BookLook bloggers in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions are my own.