Category: Uncategorized

Books I Read – March 2017

Published on by Amanda TeroLeave a comment

Where has the time gone? It’s now for another month’s recap. And I did get a lot read for March. Two Louisiana trips, what can I say? 😉

The book that stood out the most to me in my March reading was…

No, I’m not going to college. 😉 But this book came up for review, and as I know a few kids heading to college this fall, I wanted to see if anything good was out there. I thoroughly enjoyed this book (you can see why here)
Another book that really stood out to me is also a non-fiction…
23604409
Wow. I loved reading about the World War II heroes! I’m very glad I got this book. (Full review here)
And then, the fiction that stood out to me…
16184831
I actually worked on reading this book since February, but a few review commitment books got in the way. It was a slow start, and I found the backstory a little draggy… but after I finished the entire book. Wow. It was really an amazing read. You can read more of my thoughts here.
After having a friend badger me to read Chautona Havig, I caved in (okay, okay, honest truth: Chautona put a book up to review and I grabbed it cause I’ve been wanting to read her). Since the review book was #2 in a series, I borrowed book #1 and read them both. 😉 
30158428 34387959
And they were both pretty good. My reviews for book one and book two.
30177562
I also read a book by my author friend, Faith Blum.  I’ll confess, I’m not big into sci-fi. But those who do like it will probably like this book. 🙂 My review here.
And honestly, though I’d like to like every book that I read, there were two this month that just weren’t my cup of tea…
28576266 1639713
See a little more why I didn’t like them here and here.
And the final book… 
30649482
Ah… SO sweet and cute and adorable!!! My review is here.
AND… last but not least…
Because I have some great friends… and also because I found a deal on eBay… my bookshelf got about 56 volumes heavier in March. 😮 This usually doesn’t happen in a month, so I figured it was picture-worthy. 😉 
Now, your turn!
How many books did you read in March?
Which one was your favorite?
How many books did you acquire in March?
Have you read any of the books that I added to my shelves in March? (cause most of them I haven’t read…)

Welcome to College | Book Review and Giveaway

Published on by Amanda TeroLeave a comment

If you’re going to college or about to “step out into the world,” seriously… this book is great. I would call this book a “Guide for Stepping Into the World.” I am not a college student, nor do I feel God leading me to attend college, but the information in this book was still applicable to my own life. While there are many chapters on the practical side of juggling life, schedules, and making decisions, a large percentage of this book was spiritual — how to deal with doubt, how to be aware of satan’s tactics, what logical opposition one most likely will face, the list goes on. It was one of the most spiritual-strengthening and encouraging book that I’ve read in a while.

I loved how he included “passages to explore.” He had a lot of Scripture references. On this note, I personally prefer the KJV so I didn’t care for his encouragement to try out random versions, based on “what might work for you.” That would be my main disclaimer.

Also, I will note that there are chapters about purity. This book was written for older teens and I personally think that it would be wise to wait until you’re an older teen, “about to step into the world” to read this.

There were SO many good quotes! Here are a few:

“Will you define freedom as as living any way you want, or will you define it as the opportunity to live how you ought to live?”

“The truth is discovered, not created.”

“Truth may be hard to discover, but just because the quest proves difficult doesn’t mean the treasure doesn’t exist.”

“As Christians, we ought to be passionate about knowing the truth because God is passionate about making it known.”

“It is better to fall a hundred times and confess it a hundred times than to stay on the ground and call that which is sinful good. (Proverbs 24:16)”

“Remember that being courageous doesn’t mean we aren’t afraid, it just means we choose to move forward in spite of our fear.”

“Before we can determine what implications a particular [Bible] text has for our lives, we must first discover what the text means.”

*I received this book from LitFuse Publicity in exchange of my honest review*

~*~*~

Does your high school senior nervously gulp when asked what his or her life plans are? Give him or her encouragement and peace of mind with Jonathan Morrow’s Welcome to College, what J. P. Moreland calls “the single best volume I have ever read for preparing students for how to follow Jesus and flourish as his disciple in college.” Jonathan Morrow tackles the tough questions that arise during these formative years. Each chapter of this new edition has been updated, and the author has included a new chapter on Christianity, homosexuality, and the Bible.

Join Jonathan and other parents prepping their kids for college in celebrating the excitement of the next life stage for their kids by entering to win the College Survival Pack Giveaway (details below) and by attending his author chat party on April 11!

One grand prize winner will receive:

  • One copy of Welcome to College
  • One $50 Target gift card
  • One $25 Amazon gift card
  • One $25 Starbucks gift card

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 11. The winner will be announced at the Welcome to College Facebook party. RSVP for a chance to connect with Jonathan and other parents with kids prepping for college, as well as for a chance to win other prizes!

RSVP today and spread the word-tell your friends about the giveaway via social media and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 11th!

First Line Fridays | 4.7.17

Published on by Amanda Tero6 Comments

It’s Friday again! Which is when I get to talk about books. 🙂 Not like I need an excuse… 😉

Yesterday, I went thrift store shopping, which usually means getting new books. And yep, yesterday was no exception (though, for the record, I did only get four books). The book I’m most excited about is…

12746629

A few weeks ago, I had gotten World War II Heroes and really liked the author’s writing as well as reading about lesser-known men (see my review of it here).

Anyway, first lines!

“On September 11, 2001, the United States–and the world–changed forever.”
(Heroes of 9/11 by Allan Zullo)

I’ve read the first chapter, which is an overview of 9/11. I was only a pre-teen when 9/11 happened but I remember it vividly. It will be very sobering to read about it.

What are you reading this weekend? Any first lines to share?

~*~*~
Also, be sure to hop along to all of these other blogs and see what First Lines they have to share!
Please note that I may not fully endorse all of the books that these bloggers read or the content in these blogs.
Rachel – Bookworm Mama
Lauraine – Lauraine’s Notes
Andi – Radiant Light
Robin – Robin’s Nest
Kathleen – Kathleen Denly

Where I Am in Writing…

Published on by Amanda Tero2 Comments
It has been a few weeks since I’ve actually updated y’all with my writing. 
Current Project: The Secret Slipper
I am still editing The Secret Slipper. This is definitely taking me longer than I anticipated. I’m blaming it on a few things…
– I’m back up to teaching thirty music students
– I’ve also been focusing a little more on music projects
– Our family has been busy
None of these things are negatives at all! They just mean less writing time. 😉 And I am truly thankful for the progress God has allowed me to make on Slipper the past few days. I am getting most of the surface editing done, but there are 1-2 storyline-altering edits that need to be made. I think I’m saving those for last because I’m half-dreading it. 😉 
But I am trying to focus primarily on Slipper right now, and am praying to get it released in May. 🙂
Upcoming Projects
Since I’m in the final throes of Slipper, that means that my brain is already jumping ahead to “what’s next.” I do have two projects I’m planning and writing (but am keeping details hush-hush as of now), but I’m trying to get refocused for Journey of Choice. It is a big project, and big task, but it’s something that I do not want to neglect at all!
Hopefully next week will have a good report on Slipper. 😉
What are your projects right now?

Scripture Graphics #33

Published on by Amanda Tero3 Comments
“Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;” Ephesians 5:20
“In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Have we limited our thanksgiving this year already? Have we started out thankful only for the things that make us feel comfortable? Or are we making the point to give thanks in ALL things?

Throughout history, God has revealed Himself more and more. The children of Israel knew Him as Jehovah, but by the Names Messiah and Emmanuel (at this point), He was not known unto them. This gives us just a glimpse of the vastness of our God! And to think, I am born in an era where His Word is complete and revealed, so I can see how God has made Himself known to us!
How often I have read this, wishing I had a visible pillar of God to guide me! I do have an eternal pillar of guidance though: the Holy Spirit. Just like God never removed the pillar of cloud or fire, He never removed this pillar from my life. However, I can grieve it (Eph 4:30) and quench it (1 Thes 5:19). So if I am not seeing this pillar guiding me, I need to evaluate myself — am I even seeking to be filled with the Spirit?
Take – the armor of God is available to us every day, but it is our responsibility to take action so that *we* have the armor of God on us.
Withstand – “stand against, oppose”
Stand – “a prolonged form of a primary; to stand”

With the armor of God, we are not only able to stand against the devil, but we are able to stand firm and not lose ground. This cannot be done in our own strength, but must be done through the power of God (verse 10). Have you thought about spiritual warfare today and prepared?

Now it’s your turn: share a verse! 🙂

Such a Tease | Book Review, Tour, and Giveaway

Published on by Amanda Tero15 Comments

celebrate lit madeline banner (1)


My Review
I am glad that I got to read book one before this one (you may see my review of it here), as I think it would have made a confusing stand-alone. As part of a series, though, it tied in well and just continued the story that was begun in book one.

34387959It wasn’t a particular favorite of mine and I think I discovered why: I was reading it expecting a mystery book, but the mystery was a little too padded in everyday life and social happenings for my tastes. At times, I felt like the mystery was perhaps too cryptic. I enjoyed it more after the halfway point, as that was when it felt the mystery activity truly appeared (and I realized that’s kind of how I felt for book one as well).

At the same time, someone who just enjoys a laid-back tale following the various lives of characters would greatly enjoy this book. I think it’s the type of book I would enjoy on a rainy day, having no pressure of a deadline by which to read it.

I do really like Madeline. I am a little puzzled with her Christian life because she has so many things mixed up, but she is closer to having them in order in this book than the first. I guess her spiritual walk isn’t super prominent, even though it’s there. That is one reason I’d like to continue the series: to see what the author does with her.

I did find that Russel seemed to change personalities. I liked him a little better in book one…but then, that too fit his own journey as he was swamped with work in book two.

All in all, Havig’s style is unique and a voice I’m not sure I’ve read elsewhere. I’ve enjoyed finally reading a couple of her books.

I did find this one quote amazingly amusing:

“Oh, dear me. I’ve become quite the matchmaking romantic. I believe a healthy dose of murder and intrigue will be necessary to set me to rights.”

*I received this book from the author and happily gave my review in return*

About the Book
Book: Such a Tease
Author: Chautona Havig
Genre: Christian Fiction/Historical/Mystery

Release Date: March 21, 2017

Madeline, with a little assistance, discovers her old adversary is gaining a following in Rockland! Can she expose him for the fraud she’s sure he is?

Rockland:1901
In book two of the Meddlin’ Madeline series, Madeline Brown has a new endeavor to occupy her time. But is it to keep her out of the way or a reward for her work in Sweet on You? With the help of her young friends, Madeline discovers her old adversary is gaining a following in Rockland! What’s a girl to do?

However, her new position also gives her opportunities to observe, and what she sees sets more than one new investigation in motion. What does her old suitor, Delbert Jackson, know? Why is Mr. Merton giving important papers to that scoundrel, Vernon Smythe, and whatever happened to poor Abigail Cooper?

Add to these intriguing questions Henry Hardwick’s continued attentions, Edith’s newfound devotion to the temperance movement and Madeline’s determination to find her a more reliable suitor, and strange behavior from her Aunt Louisa and things heat up as summer fades from Rockland.

Unfortunately, her dear friend, Russell, busy with an important project at work, finds himself unable to help keep her out of trouble and away from danger. Is Madeline going too far? Will her meddling get her in serious trouble this time, will it destroy her reputation irreparably, or will she rid Rockland of a scoundrel once and for all? 

Click here to purchase your copy.

Giveaway

af0e9b3f-a5f4-426e-8881-f9cdb1c49676
To celebrate her tour, Chautona is giving away a Reader’s Teaser Package

that includes:

A paperback copy of both Sweet on You and Such a Tease

A “Tea-for-One” teapot

A Tin of loose-leaf tea of your choice (six options available from our local tearoom)

A pound of assorted See’s chocolates

A set of six handmade antique-inspired note cards

A $25 Amazon Gift Card

And, for the teaser… the winner will also receive the exclusive short story (usually reserved for pre-orders) The Fate of Abigail Cooper!! Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/b2b8

About the Author

media-headshot-smAuthor of the Amazon bestselling Aggie, Past Forward, and HearthLand series, Chautona considers herself blessed to live in California’s Mojave Desert with her husband and five of her nine children. When not writing, which she admits isn’t often, Chautona enjoys blogging, paper crafts, sewing, smocking, photo editing, and old (read: before her parents’ time) music.

Blog Stops

March 23: A Greater Yes
March 24: Carpe Diem
March 26: Back Porch Reads
March 27: Splashesofjoy
March 29: Lots of Helpers
March 29: The Scribbler
March 30: Bigreadersite
April 1: Pause for Tales

First Line Fridays | 3.31.2017

Published on by Amanda Tero14 Comments

I’m veering from favorite authors today and just doing a favorite book. I’ve read a few of Tracie Peterson’s books, but I didn’t like most of them near as much as this one.

Far-off screams filled the air and rattled six-year-old Jimmy Colton’s bones.
Mama?
(from Beyond the Silence by Tracie Peterson and Kimberly Woodhouse)

You’ve got to like at least a little suspense to enjoy this novel. Just saying. My review is here for those interest.

Grab a book near you and share a first line!
Do you like suspenseful books?

~*~*~
Also, be sure to hop along to all of these other blogs and see what First Lines they have to share!
Rachel – Bookworm Mama
Lauraine – Lauraine’s Notes
Andi – Radiant Light
Robin – Robin’s Nest
Kathleen – Kathleen Denly

Joshua Fit de Battle | Music Video

Published on by Amanda Tero2 Comments

I’m excited about this week’s music video, for a few reasons…

First… it’s a piano trio! How fun is that?! I’m going to try to get some of my students to play it for recital this year.
Second… I really didn’t think I’d have time or energy to do a recording this week. But once again, God has been good and supplied my need.
Third… it’s Joshua Fit de Battle! ‘Nuff said.

So, enjoy. 🙂

Info on the sheet music here.

Scripture Graphics #32

Published on by Amanda Tero1 Comment
One of the passages I will never lack the need of reading.

In thinking about the relationships surrounding us, in what ways have we yielded to the sins in verse 31? Contrariness, how do we need to repent of those sins and work to apply obedience to verse 32?

Are we actively trying to follow God? Or do we just hope that our life will somehow be like Him without putting any effort there? If we’re hardly thinking about following God, are we satisfied there? Or are we making changes so that we can better follow God?
“And Joseph said unto them, Fear not: for am I in the place of God?” Genesis 50:19
Joseph refused to condemn his brothers or use his position of leadership to make his brothers “pay.” He didn’t have an exalted view of himself, but understood his place under God.
So what about when we refuse to forgive, or desire harsh condemnation on someone else? Is this, in a way, wishing we were in the place of God instead of turning over all righteous judgment to Him?

Something that is grown must be cultivated, if it is to be healthy. Taking that idea to spiritual growth, how are we cultivating grace in our lives? Are we cultivating our knowledge of Jesus Christ? And finally, for what goal? So we can check off the list that we are “better Christians”–or so that God is glorified?
What verses have stood out to you in your Bible reading this week?

First Line Fridays | 3.24.2017

Published on by Amanda Tero10 Comments

Let innocence be your mask.
(from Ring of Secrets by Roseanna M. White)
I have never, ever read such an amusing character such as Winter in Ring of Secrets. She wears her mask beautifully — and in such a way that makes me laugh out loud. But that’s all I’m gonna say. 😉 You may read my review here.

What’s your first line this week?

~*~*~
Also, be sure to hop along to all of these other blogs and see what First Lines they have to share!
Rachel – Bookworm Mama
Lauraine – Lauraine’s Notes
Andi – Radiant Light
Robin – Robin’s Nest
Kathleen – Kathleen Denly