Book Review: Lizzy the Lioness by Lisa Bevere, Illustrated by Kirsteen Harris-Jones

Lizzy The Lioness is a story about a lion cub that gets in a tight spot and needs to ask for help from her pride. It’s a pretty cute story. She befriends a human and has a run-in with some hyenas. She learns that asking for help is nothing to be ashamed of, but rather the right thing to do.

I love to read books to my children when they have a moral or a good message.  My children generally have no problem asking for help, but as they seek more independence I do have to remind them they still need it. I have a three year old and a one and a half year old I read this book to. The younger one didn’t focus well but my three year old did. The book is probably best for a 4-8 year old though. I like how the story teaches children to rely on their family. Of course, this can extend to any close adult or caregiver, but I do appreciate the family connection.

The illustrations are vivid and colorful, and the font size varies for emphasis. I recommend it for children age 3 or 4 to 8 years old. It would also be one I would consider as a gift for a friend’s child, because parents can appreciate it as well.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: Blue Ridge Sunrise by Denise Hunter

Zoe Collins left home five years ago to pursue her dreams. A death in the family brings her back, and she has some tough decisions to make. But soon things spin out of control – her control anyway – and a cascade of events begins that could turn her life around. She inherits her grandmothers peach orchard, which comes with the responsibility of running it. To further throw a knot into matters, an old flame resurfaces closer than she would have liked, and the past begins to come to light.

Blue Ridge Sunrise was a gratifying romance true to author Denise Hunter’s style. I enjoy her books because she always adds just the right amount of conflict combined with suspense in the rest of the story line. Right as things start looking up for Zoe, they start crumbling just as quickly. She has to slow down and start trusting God and following His will before her life starts to come together again. I felt the book ended with a few loose ends surrounding some of the side characters, and discovered that there will be a sequel! I’ll definitely want to read Honeysuckle Dreams when it is released!

I recommend this book for fans of clean romance. It doesn’t portray perfect characters but real people who make human choices. However, it is from a Christian perspective so it doesn’t get raunchy. If you like Denise Hunter’s other books you will probably love this one!

I received this book for free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: The Captain Takes a Wife by Doris Durbin

As Harry sets off to hopefully start a ministry as a circuit riding preacher, he suddenly finds himself thrust into the position of providing protection for a young woman running away from an arranged marriage. Sarah Franklin is apparently unwittingly caught up in a greater criminal scheme, and those around her do not seem to mind writing her off as collateral damage. Will the two rush into a romance in the midst of all the running and fighting?

The mystery and suspense in this story was great. There were multiple twists and turns, and considering the story takes place in about a week’s time, it was pretty action packed. I will say I was expecting a little more development of the romance side. It was there, but a good romance usually has some conflict between the characters, or at least more of a process. This one was pretty open book and just moved forward with almost too much ease. Other characters outside the main romance provided more interesting conflict within the story.

I enjoyed the story for the most part. There were characters that had made past mistakes and owned up to them, moving forward in their relationship with God. I just felt that in general the romance side of it was kind of boring, and many of the other conflicts between characters were just wrapped up way too simply to be very interesting. It’s probably not making my list of books I tell people to read when they ask for a recommendation.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: God Gave Us Family by Lisa Tawn Bergren, Illustrated by David Hohn

God Gave Us Family is a children’s book that teaches the importance of family. As he is off to a pack reunion with his parents, a young wolf learns about different kinds of families and extended family as well. He sees other children living with large families, adoptive families, grandparents, and single parents before learning that his pack is considered family as well. It is a valuable lesson for young children, who often see life through the context of their own experiences or those close to them.

I have a three year old and a one and a half year old, and they both enjoy this book. The illustrations are cute and have plenty to look at, and the book is generally attractive to young children. My three year old follows along and tries to rephrase what is happening, while her little sister makes one-word comments to recap what she sees. We have another of Bergren’s books called God Gave Us You, which is a simpler board book targeted to slightly younger children. God Gave Us Family is a little longer and has more pages and words, but as I said I still found it appropriate for my little ones.

I would definitely recommend this book to parents of young children. It is appropriate for a pretty wide range of ages (3-5 is probably the best though) and it teaches some great truths about family as a gift from God.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the Blogging for Books blogger review program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: Deadly Proof by Rachel Dylan

Kate is a hard working plaintiff’s attorney who wants nothing but to do right by her clients. She has been appointed lead attorney for a major pharmaceuticals lawsuit, and quickly becomes emotionally attached to the case. She also starts becoming emotionally attached to the PI she hired to help do some digging for her.

The plot was OK. It wasn’t entirely predictable as far as who was involved in what, but I was more distracted by the fact that the romantic suspense was sadly lacking. The main characters faced various personal and spiritual challenges as well as those related to the pharmaceuticals case that the book centers around. I’m used to romances that develop in a less obvious way though. I guess this one was just way too neat and easy so it lacked interest.

I did enjoy the book, and if you like fiction that revolves around a legal case you’ll probably enjoy it too. There was some suspense and it wasn’t bad as far as a big pharma crime novel goes, but don’t expect much from the romance aspect.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the BethanyHouse Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: The King James Study Bible, Full Color Edition from Thomas Nelson Publishers

The King James Study Bible has always been a solid study Bible to me. I already had the Wide Margin Edition, but it’s the 1988 release. The Full Color Edition is new (2017) and very user friendly. I read through Colossians, a few chapters in Acts and Genesis, and skipped around to other areas to compare it with my older edition and get an overall feel.

Comparison of Content

I really didn’t see anything new with the Full Color Edition as far as content. Both have annotations, doctrinal footnotes, personality profiles, archaeological sites, and maps. The Full Color Edition has them in color, with more detailed maps and pictures to accompany the other sections. I find the pictures make the content more engaging, giving context and a general feel for the era. The Foreword states that the notes and archaeological sites have updated information that has come to our knowledge since the original King James Study Bible was published.

Format and Layout

Again not much difference here except the color and pictures. However, the contrast provided by color in the center margins and various sections makes the color edition much more user friendly. The introductions to the books are also more clear and easy to get through because they are broken up by colors and pictures.

Review of Content

I look at specific things when I decide if I like a particular study Bible. First I look for the covenants and a take on dispensationalism. This Bible is dispensationalist, and has descriptions of the covenants. It doesn’t go overboard but the essence is there.

The second thing is whether the annotations support Biblical creation. I have seen some study Bibles who present various evolutionary theories and don’t discount them. This one supports creation ex nihilo so it passed my second test!

I should also mention that this Bible is pretty full of study notes. Some passages have more than others of course, but I feel like it has enough content to give a pretty thorough study of the Bible.

Craftmanship

My copy is brown bonded leather with a brown ribbon bookmark. It is thread bound and I found no blemishes or mistakes in the printing or binding.

Overall I really love this Bible and am glad to have it to update my study Bible collection! I loved the King James Study Bible to begin with and this edition is a wonderful update to my older version. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a sound study Bible, whether you are starting from barely knowing the Bible or wanting to deepen your study after having read others.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: Here and Gone by Haylen Beck

Audra Kinney is living a nightmare. She is trying to escape an abusive husband who was crafty enough to manipulate her such that he stands to be able to keep the children from her. When she finally makes the decision to take her children far away from him, the nightmare takes of a chilling new turn. Behind bars and with her children missing, Audra must find a way to save her family and get out of the mess she is in.

The first few chapters in Here and Gone set the stage and introduce a variety of characters and situations, but once you get about 10 chapters in (chapters are short), it gets very difficult to stop reading. As the mother of young children myself, I connected with Audra’s maternal instincts and the hopelessness of her plight. I also enjoyed reading about a character that connects with her inner strength to boldly overcome an impossible situation. Mr. Beck does an excellent job weaving a thrilling tale of deceit and treachery that will keep your attention and hold it even once the book has ended.

I don’t recommend this book for young readers as it has adult themes, including abuse. But I highly recommend it for the mature reader who has a stomach for some difficult but very realistic scenarios.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the Blogging for Books blogger review program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: Sweetbriar Cottage by Denise Hunter

Noah decided to take a routine trip into town to check his mail and pick up a few supplies, but a letter from the IRS claiming he is still married railroads his plans. He confronts his ex and begins the process of rectifying the mistake in the paperwork to finalize the divorce that should have been done with a year and a half ago. Josephine was going about her daily business running her hair salon when her “ex-husband” barges in, visibly upset, to inform her of his recent discovery. In an attempt to rectify matters, she runs the new papers up to his ranch a few days later only to discover that she is now trapped with him waiting for a severe winter storm to pass.

A few years ago I read one of Denise Hunter’s romance novels and really enjoyed it, so I figured I’d try another one. I was not disappointed! I feel like her writing has gotten better, and I really enjoy her character development. The story brings up past issues for the characters, who have to learn to trust God in different ways. Josephine has to learn to accept forgiveness, and Noah learns to explore the truth before jumping to rash decisions. It turned out to be a beautiful love story that I read in about two days.

If you enjoy a fairly clean romance with Christian undertones, you will enjoy Sweetbriar Cottage. I would not recommend it for younger teens as there are some adult themes. So parents, you might want to read this before you decide it’s appropriate for your older teens.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: Precious Moments Little Book of Bible Stories by Jean Fischer

I tried to hide this book from my kids (ages 1 and 2) when it showed up so I could pull it out at bedtime. It didn’t work! They both immediately knew it must be for them and wanted me to read it! We go through a few pages a day and they love it! It’s a board book, and the pictures are adorable and attractive to children, like most precious moments books. Every page has its own Bible story complete with a corresponding verse and a short prayer.

Each story is presented in a clear and simple manner appropriate for a 1-3 year old (in my opinion). It’s definitely better quality than some other Bible storybooks I’ve seen for very young children. The stories are simplified but not ridiculous. And the fact that my children love it is a huge plus! The illustrations are attractive for kids and adults, and the slick board pages and thick cover make it pleasant to handle as well (both big pluses for children’s books). It’s also pretty durable.

If you have young children I recommend this book. I think it would make a great baby shower or baby dedication gift as well.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: The Promise of Breeze Hill by Pam Hillman

Life along the Natchez Trace in the 1700s was anything but easy, especially for the Bartholomew family, whose plantation bordered the trace. Murder and sabotage to their plantation have combined to make life difficult, and now Isabella has had to rise and manage her family and the plantation. Juggling responsibility and family has caused her to resist various suitors vying for her hand in marriage… or perhaps just control of her father’s land?

Connor O’Shea is again thrust in a position where life as an indentured servant is the only way to bring his family from Ireland to America where they can all start a new life. The past eight years of service earned his own passage, and would’ve begun to bring over his brothers if it weren’t for the untimely death of his master. He ends up indentured to Breeze Hill, charged with rebuilding the plantation home under the oversight of the plantation owners beautiful daughter. Can he keep his personal feelings to himself and focus strictly on his job?

I enjoyed the interplay of relationships put forth in this story, as well as reading about the main character’s struggle with faith. I was able to connect with her struggles, as some of her losses matched my own, and even her methods of dealing with those losses by pushing away new relationships and attempting to focus only on family when God has other plans. The romance has a perfect level of involvement in the story without distracting from the rest of the plot. If you, like me, enjoy fiction and romance set in American history then you will probably enjoy this book. It’s an easy read, and I got through it in about two days despite the fact that I’m a full time Mom. I didn’t do as much sleeping as I should have though!

I received this book for free from the publisher through the Tyndale House Publishers blogger review program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: Mighty Salads by the Editors of Food 52

Mighty Salads is not your run-of-the-mill cookbook. It contains 60 mouth-watering recipes for salads that are balanced and filling enough to make a meal out of them. The book is also sprinkled full of tips on topics like growing your own sprouts, preparing eggs, and prepping other ingredients. Each recipe is accompanied by a photograph. (Hey, we eat with our eyes first right?)

I must say this is a book to get excited about. I couldn’t stop devouring the pictures and planning what to make first when it arrived. The recipes are well-constructed and exciting, and this book is a must-have for foodies who like to cook, or those trying to improve their health and eating habits. However, many of the ingredients are difficult to find, expensive, or require some advance preparation. So if you are a Mom trying to constantly feed a family of small children you may find yourself frustrated with prep-time (and of course combating a child’s simple palette desiring mac and cheese or pizza most of the time). However it’s still a pleasant book to have around for a special night without the kids, or maybe when they go off to college!

                                                             

I received this book for free from the publisher through the Blogging for Books blogger review program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: The Gospel According to Paul by John MacArthur

We are all familiar with the four gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Each of these books of the Bible has “The Gospel According to” proceeding it. There is no book of Paul, but as he wrote most of the epistles in the New Testament reiterating and explaining the gospel it is undeniable that he has written extensively on the subject. John MacArthur’s latest book, The Gospel According to Paul, takes a good look at the gospel as this inspiring apostle wrote it. Paul did not conflict with other authors of parts of the Bible, but he offers his unique perspective (as did the other gospel authors). Each Chapter focuses on a specific concept based on a passage of one of Paul’s epistles and backed up by multiple other passages.

I am familiar enough with the gospel, but I enjoyed this fresh approach. In some ways it was a summary of Paul’s writings. One of the things I appreciate about MacArthur’s books is that he sticks to what the Bible says and not conjecture, thus his theology is sound. I found this book to be no different. As is any Biblical presentation of the gospel, it is convicting and uplifting at the same time. Even as a born again Christian I need to be reminded every so often where I came from, what Christ has done for me, and that I need to be sharing the gospel as part of the Great Commission. This book is a wonderful addition to any Christian’s library, but will probably be easier to get through for those who have read the entire Bible, or at least the New Testament.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: The Noble Servant by Melanie Dickerson

Magdalen, a poor baron’s daughter, receives a proposal from a wealthy duke. She is surprised but elated, as this will hopefully bring about a positive change for her people. But there is much treachery afoot, and she soon finds herself in the position of a servant, fighting to figure out how to prove her identity and gain back her station. Soon she makes a friend in a similar plight, and together they seek to undo the injustices done at their expense.

So I wasn’t one hundred percent sure about this book at first but decided to read it anyway. I couldn’t put it down, and got through it in just over 24 hours despite the fact that I am a stay at home mom to two toddlers. Needless to say I didn’t turn on the TV or sleep much after they went to sleep! The main characters each possess an unwavering faith in God and commitment to others that I found refreshing. The story is full of suspense and the romance is delightful, a combination I always enjoy. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone considering it. It was an easy and quick read, but of sufficient length to provide plenty of action and plot twists.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: Dispensationalism and the History of Redemption, General Editors D. Jeffrey Bingham and Glenn R. Kreider

Dispensationalism and the History of Redemption is a collection of ten essays from various well-educated dispensationalist scholars from Dallas Theological Seminary. It covers various aspects of dispensationalism, from its history and development to how it differs from other systems, as well as various factions within the movement. The book gives a fairly in-depth treatise for the average layman, although a seminary student would likely be well-versed in more of the subject matter. The ideal audience is those who have managed some study of theology already and are aware of the branches of systematic theology, and how various Christian factions fall within different areas of theology.

I have read my fair share of theology books, having grown up the daughter of a seminary graduate, but I still had to take the book slowly. It all made sense to me but it wasn’t easy reading. As a dispensationalist, I enjoyed reading a text that deals with so many aspects of dispensationalism, and learned quite a bit about the history of the movement and how it relates to other views, such as covenant theology.

I would definitely recommend this book to those who have enough background to get through it. If you were a little confused reading my review thus far, I would recommend beginning with a more introductory level book on dispensationalism or theology in general. Overall, I learned a lot and am glad I was able to read this book.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the Moody Publishers blogger review program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: Are My Kids on Track? By Sissy Goff, David Thomas, and Melissa Trevathan

I have two small children, so I figured this was a book I ought to read. Parenting books are easy to find, but this one looks more at a child’s emotional development and is not your typical discipline/motivation treatise. This is definitely a book I plan on reading through multiple times. It has twelve chapters, divided into three parts. The first four chapters cover emotional milestones, the next four social milestones, and the last four spiritual milestones. All but the last two chapters deal with boys and girls separately because they each approach these areas of development differently. The authors teach stumbling blocks and building blocks for boys and girls in each area and sum up each chapter with a concrete list of things a parent can do to bolster their child in each of these objectives.

My girls are only one and two right now, but I can already see many of these fields at play in their development. Very soon I will start focusing on one chapter at a time to try to build up these skills in my own children (and me as well!) Early on, the authors make the point that many adults are stuck, having never mastered these milestones themselves. I was quickly able to identify areas in which I and certain loved ones still struggle. It was eye-opening to say the least!

Are My Kids on Track? is a book I would highly recommend to all parents or anyone who works with children and teens. Even if you aren’t a Christian I think the entire book is relevant.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the BethanyHouse Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: Invitation – Cycle One of the Harbingers Series by Bill Myers, Frank Peretti, Angela Hunt, and Alton Gansky

Psychic phenomena, strange occurrences that shouldn’t be possible, and cryptic messages provide a web of intrigue for four mismatched people who end up sharing some strange adventures together. I wasn’t sure what would come with this set of stories, but I was excited to start a new series. The book is presented as four short stories in one volume. Each is narrated by a different character and meant to be able to be read in one or two sittings. Each story has its own plot but builds on the others. We have a professor who ditched the priesthood, a tattoo artist, a brainiac who sees patterns, and a loveable jock. These four friends keep finding themselves stuck together trying to solve a strange mystery or save someone.

As the first of a series, this cycle of stories hasn’t come to a grand conclusion. Each story is somewhat resolved but not completely. I enjoyed it more than I thought I would when I began reading. The authors did an excellent job coordinating on this collaboration, as each of the shorter stories was penned by a different author. The characters were well-developed as a whole and the plots kept my focus. It started getting a little complicated with talk of other dimensions, but I look forward to reading the next cycle of stories in the series.

I would recommend this book to those who enjoy reading about the unexplained/impossible. It has Christian undertones but is not overly Christian.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the BethanyHouse Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: The Angels’ Share by James Markert

The Angels’ Share is an entertaining piece of historical fiction that takes place during the Great Depression. It follows an interesting chain of events involving a family who ran a whiskey distillery before prohibition. A family tragedy has them all in a hard place, until a stranger is buried in the potter’s field next to their home and interesting things start to happen. Some people said he was a reincarnation of Christ, others simply that he had amazing God-given gifts. Whatever the case, miracles and strange things start to happen, leading a young man on an investigative journey that includes pushing his family to finally move forward with their lives. Events take a darker turn and family and new friends join together to preserve their future.

I found The Angels’ Share to be a well-informed treatise of the life in America during the 1930’s, and a thoroughly enjoyable story. Much of it is far-fetched and not likely to actually happen, but it guides readers through a transformation in the characters’ faith in God. Although parts of it get a bit dark, the story was inspiring. The past is resurrected and must be faced, and decisions for the future are finally made. It’s a struggle that is easy to connect with.

I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, or books that contain unexplained phenomena. It was a great read and would love to check out other work from the author.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: The Anxious Christian by Rhett Smith

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I opened this book. Maybe I would find the same arguments about how Christians aren’t supposed to be anxious because God told us not to, or how to get through anxiety without medication. But instead I found a realistic dialogue on the very real human and biological aspect of anxiety, and tips on embracing it and seeking help. The author encourages Christians to admit what they are going through instead of hiding out of shame or fear of judgment from other Christians. Rhett Smith himself has dealt with anxiety since childhood, and he references his struggles in explaining the reality behind the struggles. God can use our anxiety to push us in the direction he wants us to go. The author is able to use his unique struggles to minister as a counselor, and like every trial God puts Christians through anxiety can be a tool toward further spiritual growth.

I found this book to be extremely helpful, and it provided a fresh approach to issues of mental health from a Christian perspective. I recommend this book to anyone who deals with anxiety, whether it is severe or mild, themselves or a loved one. It also contains discussion questions after every chapter to help the reader apply the information to their own life.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the Moody Publishers blogger review program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: For the Record by Regina Jennings

For the Record is a cute story set in the late 1800s about a young man and a young woman who are looking to advance their careers and avoid romance. Betsy is an independent young woman who was clearly born before her time. She wasn’t interested in any of the local boys, and chose to spend her time helping her uncle with his newspaper. As a reward, she made it to the ripe old age of 24 where people stopped bugging her to get married. Joel is a sheriff deputy who attempted to avoid matrimony, but fell victim to the attempts of a young woman who falsely tarnished his reputation. He escapes to a small town in Missouri, hoping to avoid his past. What happens when these two souls cross paths?

It took a few chapters for me to really get into this story, but then I couldn’t put it down. It’s a whodunit with an entertaining romance. The characters hold back from each other emotionally, and they both have secrets they are keeping. And all the while they are working together – or somewhat together – to solve the town’s recent problems.

I found characters engaging, and didn’t think the romance overwhelms the plot. It is clean romance too, with a Christian influence but not in excess. I wouldn’t call it historical fiction, but the story contains enough details about the time period and geography to entertain a fan of the genre. I would recommend this book to those looking for a clean romance, and hope to read more from the author.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the BethanyHouse Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book Review: Read & Play Baby Bible published by Zondervan, illustrated by Gustavo Mazali

As soon as the Read & Play Baby Bible showed up at my house, my two year old claimed it as hers! The illustrations are cute and happy the book is very appealing to young ones. The content, however, is more suitable for my ten month old daughter. Nevertheless the toddler insisted on going through all the stories with me, so I can say confidently that the book appeals to babies and toddlers alike.

The hardback cover is thick and just a little spongy to protect against the abuse typical of the target age group. Each left page has a title, Bible verses to reference the story, and two or three sentences to summarize it .The opposite page has little ideas for play with the child, and an illustration covers both pages.

The summaries don’t necessarily tell the story, but usually just a part of it to capture a child’s attention. One could argue that it doesn’t teach the stories very well, but I think the idea is to start introducing the child to the Bible while introducing them to books as well. Obviously the book is attractive, as both my girls can attest to, and the amount of writing on each page is appropriate when you have a toddler who is ready to turn to the next page quickly.

I think this is a fun book for babies and would make a good gift.

I received this book for free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions and thoughts I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255