Tag: Books

First Line Friday 5.12.17

Published on by Amanda Tero13 Comments
Happy Friday! Today’s FLF, I’m featuring the first line from a new favorite: Paige Torn. I absolutely have to get my hands on book two!

First line:
“Living in Texas can be awesome. Or awful.”
Paige Torn by Erynn Mangum
You may see my review here.
And… about the book…
Everyone knows they can count on Paige Alder. But between volunteering at church, putting in overtime at work, and helping her best friend plan an anniversary party, she’s lucky to grab a cheese stick for dinner. Paige can’t even remember the last time she had a few minutes to relax or dig into God’s Word. Then she meets laid-back Tyler, an attractive, Jesus-loving guy. Will he be able to help Paige get her priorities on track?
Your turn! Share a first line!!
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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
Trisha – Joy of Reading
Jeanette – CJane Read

Books I Read – April 2017

Published on by Amanda Tero2 Comments
It’s still April, isn’t it? ;P Seriously, yesterday I wrote “April 5” TWICE–and I didn’t even realize it until this morning. How many of you have a hard time transitioning into May?
So, now that I have convinced myself that it is, indeed, May, it’s time for April reading recap! I actually read a lot in April (mostly in the beginning of the month). Like I may have beat January’s book-count. Of course, many of these were short. 😉 And most of them were fantastic reads!
Books I’ve been waiting forever to read…
Finally!! I was able to get around to books that have been on my TBR pile forever (or what seems like forever). The first checked off my list…

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I was not disappointed! I thoroughly enjoyed Kate’s Innocence and grabbed Kate’s Capitol several months ago. I had to wait until my reading schedule was cleared up to read it. I’m happy to recommend this book to readers! There is more romance issues than in Innocence, for readers sensitive to that. But, you can see my review here.

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Oh my word. Why did I wait so long to read this book?! It was SO, SO good!! You can read my fangirling enthusiastic review here.

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I’ve seen this author around for a few years, so she’s kind of been on my TBR list. I didn’t know what to think of this book at first, as it was quite a different style…but in the end, I loved it. And since I’ve put the book down, I have been reminded of the message of the book several times in my own life. That makes it a wonderful read for me. See my review.

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The last that got a little dusty on my shelves before I got around to reading it was Five Love Languages for Singles. This was also a good read and I felt like I learned a lot in it. My review is here.

Moving on…
Saddest read of the month…

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I remember 9/11, so this book resonated and brought back a lot of the initial feelings of “when it happened.” It was good to be reminded of 9/11. Full review here.

Favorite short story…

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We’re going to pretend that this isn’t my only short story read in April. Seriously, if I had read others, this would have still made it to favorites list! Honest, truly. It’s free! So get it and read it. And if you need more persuasion, you may read my complete review.

Favorite inspirational read…

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This book was SO good!!! It is properly named “gems.” It was easy to read, as it was just a bunch of short quotes (a few paragraph-long), and they were so good. Yeah, it was just good. I highlighted like half of the book. I don’t know that I have more in my review, but it’s here if you’re interested. 😉 This is another free Kindle book.
Uncategorized…
None of the books I read this month were “never read again” but two of them were kind of on my neutral list.

This was highly informative and I will likely read it again. Review here.

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I laughed at parts in this book, but some parts also fell a little flat. My review is here, for more of my thoughts.
Children’s books…
I think I’m getting addicted to reviewing children’s books. 😉 They are so cute and very handy to have on hand in case I need to gift them.

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This one wasn’t on a review program; I grabbed it at a thrift store and am so glad I did. See My review.

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I read God Loves Mommy and Me in March so was happy to review this one as well. It’s just as cute. My review here.

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And this one. SO cute. So adorable! I love this little book!!! You can read my full thoughts here.
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There you have it! My books of April. What did you read in April? What were your favorite reads? Have you read any of these books? If so, do you agree with my thoughts or not? Why?
What are your anticipated reads of May 2017? I’m going to see how far I can get in these two beasts of books. I’m already about 120 pages in Sherman (research reading) and 1 1/2 stories in Holmes (my first time reading Sherlock!).

Behind the Scenes | Giveaway, Blog Tour, FLF

Published on by Amanda Tero14 Comments

Happy Friday! I’m here with another book for review and First Line Friday. 😉

behind-the-scenes
 
First Line:

“Pressing her nose against the glass of the carriage window, Miss Permilia Griswold felt her stomach begin to churn as she took note of the throngs of people lining Fifth Avenue.”


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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
Jessica – A Baker’s Perspective

Trisha – Joy of Reading

BehindtheScenes_mck.inddAbout the Book

Book: Behind the Scenes  

Author: Jen Turano  

Genre: Inspirational Historical Romance  

Release Date: April, 2017

To order your copy, click here.

Miss Permilia Griswold may have been given the opportunity of a debut into New York high society, but no one warned her she wasn’t guaranteed to “take.” After spending the last six years banished to the wallflower section of the ballroom, she’s finally putting her status on the fringes of society to good use by penning anonymous society gossip columns under the pseudonym “Miss Quill.”

Mr. Asher Rutherford has managed to maintain his status as a reputable gentleman of society despite opening his own department store. While pretending it’s simply a lark to fill his time, he has quite legitimate reasons for needing to make his store the most successful in the country. When Permilia overhears a threat against the estimable Mr. Rutherford, she’s determined to find and warn the man. Disgruntled at a first meeting that goes quite poorly and results in Asher not believing her, she decides to take matters into her own hands, never realizing she’ll end up at risk as well.

As Asher and Permilia are forced to work together and spend time away from the spotlight of society, perhaps there’s more going on behind the scenes than they ever could have anticipated. . . .

My Review
Another laugh-out-loud read!! I don’t always find authors to be humorous, but Jen Turano has it down. I got many strange looks from my family when I just couldn’t hold back a giggle (or ten). 

I would say that Behind the Scenes is definitely a character-driven novel. I fell in love with Permilia, Gertrude, and yes, Asher and Harrison (here’s hoping the next in the series is about Gertrude!). All of the characters were very well developed and interesting. I loved how Turano leaked out what they were doing and consistently made changes in their character growth and trust (or distrust) of others.

The plot seemed a little scattered at times because there was SO much going on between the main threat presented, family relationships, etc. It was all very interesting, it just seemed that occasionally the main threat was forgotten for a while (and, seeing as it was dangerous, how could one forget it?).

This was a very clean book. I would say it is Christian, because it definitely speaks of God, but it didn’t strike me as having a solid message woven throughout the entire story—more in the latter half. Also, I’m not 100% sure that I fully endorse some of the thoughts presented (such as, “Follow God, hope for the best”—this is probably me being slightly nit-picky).

There was romance, of course, but it was comical. I didn’t find it to be extremely emotional-driven. There were a few times of flutters and such, but honestly, I don’t remember any extreme detail of emotions and kisses (which is a personal plus here).

Due to the era, there was a bit about the suffrage/progressive movement. I personally don’t fully agree with the movement, but I did find it to add historical accuracy.

All in all, this was a super enjoyable read and I’m looking forward to book two in the series.

*I received this book complimentary of the author and Celebrate Lit, and happily provided my review.*

About the Author

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Jen Turano, author of nine books and two novellas, is a graduate of the University of Akron with a degree in clothing and textiles. She is a member of ACFW and lives in a suburb of Denver, Colorado. Visit her website at www.jenturano.com.

Blog Stops

April 27: The Scribbler
April 27: Genesis 5020
April 28: Back Porch Reads
April 29: Bookworm Mama
April 29: Karen Sue Hadley
April 30: Radiant Light
April 30: Bigreadersite
April 30: Lane Hill House
May 3: Book by Book
May 5: Baker Kella

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Jen is giving away a $25 Barnes and Noble Gift Card and the four books: After a Fashion, In Good Company, Playing the Part, Behind the Scenes!! Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!


http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/4664b04910/

Who’s Who in The Secret Slipper | Pinterest!!

Published on by Amanda TeroLeave a comment
Ah, character cast. Every book has them. If you’re anything like me, as you read, you tend to visualize the characters only to find out that maybe the author’s view of the characters was slightly different than you own.
Something I’ve begun doing is creating a Pinterest board for my book. “The Secret Slipper” is no exception. I have all of my characters on my board! Even if you’ve not read “The Secret Slipper” yet, it will give you an author’s introduction to the characters. 🙂 So hop on over, see who’s who, and then I’d love to hear who you’re eager to hear more about in the novella!


Remember, you can sign up to review or feature “The Secret Slipper” on your blog here. Tour dates: May 25-June 3, 2017.

Spurgeon Gems | FLF 4.27.17

Published on by Amanda Tero12 Comments

My choice for #firstlinefriday is a book I stared on Sunday, Spurgeon Gems. You can get it for free on Kindle and I definitely think it’s worth it!

Since this is just a book full of random quotes, I’m choosing one of my favorites (I have highlighted not quite half the book… a lot of great stuff in there!).

“Do not begin until you have prayed! 
Begin, continue and end everything with prayer, 
but especially begin with prayer.”
(Spurgeon Gems, Charles H. Spurgeon

First…
Pull a book from your shelf and share a first line!

Then…
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
Jessica – A Baker’s Perspective

Trisha – Joy of Reading

Christ Arose! | Book Review and Giveaway

Published on by Amanda Tero2 Comments

I am not big into Biblical fiction, because the authors usually take a little too much creative license for my personal preference. However, Faith just finished a Biblical fiction short story (which she wrote, edited, and published in just three short days AND you can get it for free!!)…I had time so read it and wow!! Five stars all the way! You can read my review of it here. I definitely recommend it! OH… AND the giveaway is cool because it comes from my sister’s Etsy shop. Yeah… you want to see it. 😉

About the Book


And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it. His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow: And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men.
No longer could I say I was lonely. But oh, how I wish I could! Who could have done such a thing to the Creator of the world? Who had so much hatred for Him?

Available for free on all eBook vendor: http://books2read.com/christ-arose

About the Author

Faith Blum is a 20-something author of multiple books in various genres. She loves to write, read, play piano, knit, crochet, sew, watch movies, and play games with her family. She lives in Wisconsin with her family on a small family farm where they raise goats, chickens, turkeys, ducks, and have 2 dogs and a varying number of cats.

Faith’s goal in her writing is to encourage Christians in their walk with Christ. If you enjoyed this book, go to her website to sign up for her Monthly Newsletter so you can get an email with fun facts, giveaways, and so much more every month. You will also find links to her other Social Media sites on her website. She loves to hear from her readers, so feel free to contact her. 

Giveaway


Faith is offering a really neat giveaway for this tour. The Par La Grace etsy seller has an April special right now for a really beautifully made block that says He Lives. Isn’t it pretty? You can enter the giveaway here:

 

Excerpt

I am empty. Bereft. No one visits, no one comes near. The garden is a comfort in some ways. The beauty of the flowers, the trees, and the sky above. But I am lonely. Not like my brothers and sisters nearby. They have been used. They are filled with the bodies of their masters’ loved ones.

Yes, I am a tomb. The rock I am made from was created by God the Creator long ago. Sometime later, Joseph of Arimathea bought me and had men work on me until a beautiful place became hollowed out for my master’s body and for his loved ones when they went to be forever with their Creator.

Tour Schedule 

April 22
Bookish Orchestrations-Intro Post
Letters from Annie Douglass Lima-Book Spotlight
Written Rest-Book Spotlight and Review
April 24
Leila Tualla-Book Spotlight
God’s Peculiar Treasure Rae-Book Spotlight
April 25
With a Joyful Noise-Book Spotlight and Review
Writings, Ramblings, and Reflections-Book Spotlight
April 26
Frances Hoelsma-Book Spotlight
Perpetual Indie Perspective-Book Spotlight and Review
April 27
Bookish Orchestrations-Giveaway Winner

The Secret Slipper – Coming Soon!!

Published on by Amanda TeroLeave a comment

This last week has been great! I mean, I was down almost every day sick BUT that gave me time to edit Slipper and work on formatting it. So…we have a release date!

That’s exactly one month from today! I’m so, so, so excited!!! This has been so very long overdue (in my opinion) and you all have been such a wonderful encouragement to me in the writing and editing process. I appreciate you all so very much!!
If you haven’t already, “The Secret Slipper” can be added to your Goodreads list (as an author, adding it to your to-read list, even if you’re not going to read it for a year is very helpful!).
And if you want the opportunity to READ “The Secret Slipper,” the sign-up for blog tour and review reading is up now. Sign up here! And if you have friends who like to blog or read, go ahead and send them there too. I’m so ready to share Lia’s journey with everyone!

Keep your eye open on Tuesdays. I’m bursting to share even more about Lia and Raoul with you all.

Princess Prayers | FLF and Book Review

Published on by Amanda Tero9 Comments

Here I am, combining two things in one post again. 😉 But really, this is a great and cute book to feature for First Line Friday…

“Good morning, Lord, it’s time to rise.
The sun is shining bright.
I’ve got my day ahead of me.
Please help me do what’s right.”
(“Princess Prayers” by Crystal Bowman)

Amazon has a beautiful preview of the book here (oh, and you can buy it there too 😉 ).

Now, before I do my review, there are these other lovely participants of FLF… 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

My Review
What little girl doesn’t love princesses?
And what is sweeter than cuddling with your little princess (be it daughter or sister) with adorable poems?

“Princess Prayers” is part of The Princess Parables series (“I Can Read” books) and features artwork from the various other princess stories. The poems go from “My Morning Prayer” to daily life, to scary stuff (like storms), and ends with “My Nighttime Prayer.” Each of the poems are two stanzas long, have wonderful rhythmic flow, and truths that girls are able to apply to their everyday lives.

I loved reading through these poems/prayers with my youngest sister (and she loved them too). They are very easy to read and flow well (I have a hard time with some poetry just not flowing). I was also thrilled to realize the depth of these poems. Many Biblical truths are incorporated in the poems such as God never leaving, God loving us even though we sin, God taking away our fear. One poem reminds me closely of Psalm 139, where we can go nowhere from God’s presence. The poems are strengthened by having a Bible verse at the bottom of each poem (I prefer KJV and am not sure what translation these are in). 

*I received this book from BookLook Bloggers and was happy to provide my review in return*

God Loves Daddy and Me | FLF and Book Review

Published on by Amanda Tero12 Comments
Happy Friday!! Today the book I’m featuring for First Line Fridays is a book I received to review… and it’s another adorable one. 🙂 Last month, I had gotten God Loves Mommy and Me and when I saw this one by the same author, I couldn’t pass it up. 😉 These are sweet little books that would make the perfect gift for parents.
“God loves Daddy and me in lots of special ways. His love is with us when we go on big-adventure days.”
(God Loves Daddy and Me by Bonnie Rickner Jensen, Illustrated by Laura Watkins)
My review:
Another adorable children’s book by Bonnie Rickner Jensen and Laura Watkins. It is written very similarly to [book:God Loves Mommy and Me|30649482]–cute illustrations and a fun exploration of the many different times and ways in which God loves “Daddy and me,” using many traditional family play-times (like building forts, taking walks, doing chores). I really appreciate the concepts portrayed in this book about God hearing our prayers, forgiveness making love strong, and God’s ever-present, unconditional love. This is definitely a children’s book I endorse.
*I received this book from BookLook Bloggers and happily provided my review*
Your Turn!
Now, pick up a book nearest you and share a first line.
Do you have any children’s books you love to read?
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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