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Book Review: Finish by Jon Acuff

Finish by Jon Acuff

ABOUT FINISH:

Year after year, readers pulled me aside at events and said, “I’ve never had a problem starting. I’ve started a million things, but I never finish them. Why can’t I finish?

According to studies, 92 percent of New Year’s reso-lutions fail. You’ve practically got a better shot at getting into Juilliard to become a ballerina than you do at finishing your goals.

For years, I thought my problem was that I didn’t try hard enough. So I started getting up earlier. I drank enough energy drinks to kill a horse. I hired a life coach and ate more superfoods. Nothing worked, although I did develop a pretty nice eyelid tremor from all the caffeine. It was like my eye was waving at you, very, very quickly.

Then, while leading a thirty-day online course to help people work on their goals, I learned something surprising: The most effective exercises were not those that pushed people to work harder. The ones that got people to the finish line did just the opposite— they took the pressure off.

Why? Because the sneakiest obstacle to meeting your goals is not laziness, but perfectionism. We’re our own worst critics, and if it looks like we’re not going to do something right, we prefer not to do it at all. That’s why we’re most likely to quit on day two, “the day after perfect”—when our results almost always underper­form our aspirations.

The strategies in this book are counterintuitive and might feel like cheating. But they’re based on studies conducted by a university researcher with hundreds of participants. You might not guess that having more fun, eliminating your secret rules, and choosing something to bomb intentionally works. But the data says otherwise. People who have fun are 43 percent more successful! Imagine if your diet, guitar playing, or small business was 43 percent more suc­cessful just by following a few simple principles.

If you’re tired of being a chronic starter and want to become a consistent finisher, you have two options: You can continue to beat yourself up and try harder, since this time that will work. Or you can give yourself the gift of done.

I’m a Jon Acuff fan and really enjoy his work. When I heard about Finish, I was excited because that’s a problem not only do I run into, but I also hear it from people I work with/mentor/encourage. We have no problem starting, but finishing? A look in a craft room can tell you how real the problem is.

 

I loved Finish because it gave great strategies that are so simple you’ll be mad you didn’t think of it first. It’s also full of stories, stats, and anecdotes that Jon Acuff is known for. It’s motivational and humorous, practical and inspiring.

 

I finished the book a few weeks ago and I’m still going back to Will Smith. In the book it talks about financial challenges Will was having years ago and the simple technique he used to not only get out of that predicament, but keep him on the short list for big movies for 20 years. I won’t give it away, but it blew my mind.

There’s a lot of meat to Finish, yet, it’s a fast read. Don’t go too fast, or you’ll miss something, because there are a lot of takeaways you can and should apply to your life. I think this is a book you not only can start, but finish—and use as a practical tool in your life.

PURCHASE FINISH HERE

I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.

Tags:  book review, Book Review: Finish by Jon Acuff, Finish, goals, Jon Acuff, Julie Arduini, life lessons, productivity, Start, Will Smith




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 Fear Can Take a Hike  Year Round Thanks by Marijo Phelps  COTT: Clash of the Titles Welcomes New Staff Member    Clash of the Titles Founder April Gardner---An Interview by Michelle MassaroCopyright © Julie Arduini [Book Review: Finish by Jon Acuff], All Right Reserved. 2017.

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Dream Maker: A Child’s Life of Christ by Katheryn Maddox Haddad

A Child’s Life of Christ: DREAM MAKER

Storybook #2 in Series THEY MET JESUS

 

In storybook 2, your children meet….

 

*Simon where they learn not to get into fights,

*John the Baptist where they learn to not be so shy,

*Jesus being tempted where they learn to do good to others,

*Andrew and Philip where they learn to tell a friend about Jesus,

*Nathaniel where they learn to only say nice things about others,

*A poor widow where they learn to do something special for a widow,

*Nicodemus where they memorize John 3:16,

*A strange woman where they learn to be nice to people who are not like them,

*Two little boys who were healed where they learn not to be jealous,

*A sick old lady where they learn to give a smile to someone who seems sad.

 

Here is part of a sample chapter.

 

8 ~ THE STRANGE WOMAN

 

We sometimes decide people are strange when they really are not. We may decide this because someone’s skin or hair color is different, or they talk different, or they’re very tall or short, or have habits we’re not used to seeing.

 

Istar lived in a part of Palestine that so-called good Jews did not go to. The Jews would not even talk to those people because they were different in their customs.

 

But Jesus loved everyone and wanted to give everyone a chance to find out about God’s love.

 

Istar and her family and friends worshipped idols. An idol is like a doll or statue that people bow down to and call a god. They are not really.

 

“I have talked all day and I’m tired now,” Jesus said while traveling through Samaria. So, he sat down by a well to rest.

 

Istar came to the well to draw water. Jesus didn’t act like he thought he was better than her. He talked to everyone, even if they did look, act or talk different than him. So, he asked her for a drink of water….

Katheryn Haddad was born in the cold north, but now lives in Arizona where she does not have to shovel sunshine. She enjoys hot weather, palm trees and cacti in her yard, and a computer with the letters worn off.

With a bachelor’s degree in English, Bible and social science from Harding University and part of a master’s degree in Bible, including Greek, from the Harding Graduate School of Theology, she also has a master’s degree in management and human relations from Abilene University.

Her newspaper column appeared for several years in newspapers in Texas and North Carolina ~ Little Known Facts About the Bible ~ and she has written for numerous Christian publications.

Currently she teaches English over the internet every morning, using the Bible as a text book. Most of her students are Muslims. She has taught some 6000 thus far, and has former students, now Christians, in hiding in Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Somalia, Jordan, Uzbekistan, and Palestine. “They are my heroes” she declares.

She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Christian Writers of the West, and is also an energetic public speaker who can touch the heart of audiences.

Website: http://inspirationsbykatheryn.com

 

Purchase Dream Maker: A Child’s Life of Christ HERE 

Tags:  Bible, Dream Maker: A Child's Life of Christ, Julie Arduini, Katheryn Maddox Haddad




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 Two Older Books that Have a Grab on Me This Year  Mother of Pearl Blog Series Featuring Holley Gerth  COTT: Vote for Your Favorite October Read!  Book Review: The Firefighter's Promise by Patricia Johns  ENTANGLED: Surrendering the PastCopyright © Julie Arduini [Dream Maker: A Child's Life of Christ by Katheryn Maddox Haddad], All Right Reserved. 2017.

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Robin Steinweg: Sweet in the Middle

 

Stuck in the Sweet in the Middle

by Robin Steinweg

 

Do you ever feel you’re in that awkward, in-between stage? I sure do!

 

I recently spent years stuck in a crushing middle. Round and round I turned from the growing needs of aging parents to those of growing sons to those of work. I’d carve hours from sleepless nights to write, compose, or read. More often to pray. My husband accepted leftovers with grace and gratitude. Not just food, but time and energy. He was stuck in his own middle, caring for his dad and doing more for my parents than can be recorded.

 

Sweet in the Middle by Robin Steinweg

Now our parents are gone. I’m living in the middle of grief, rediscovering who I am if no longer a caregiver. Looking to experience—and to pass on—the rich life Jesus came to give us (John 10:10). Know what? God shows me things I can do so He can help me move forward. I’m not stuck here. I get to be here, where it can be sweet in the middle!

 

If you’re in the midst of circumstances or even past them, it’s never too late to rediscover who you are. Try some of the following:

 

Develop friendships with people who will build you up.
Find ways to build others up.
Journal what you’re going through as a way to release feelings.
Photo journal or doodle journal.
Admit if you need help.
Get more color in your surroundings/clothing.
List your blessings.
Express more gratitude.
Find ways to expand or share your hobbies.
Join a book club.
Volunteer to help others.
If you have grieving to do, do it whole-heartedly. But don’t stay there.
Live fully. Enjoy what God gives you to enjoy.
Dream again. Don’t hold back—dream big. What does God have for you next?

 

These ideas have helped. Yes, I still pick up the phone to call my mom or find jigsaw puzzles for my dad. I still if wonder I could have, should have done more for them. Guilt and remorse creep in.

 

But I realize that’s the voice of our enemy, the accuser. So I intentionally turn to words of life in God’s Word. I leave my broken heart at Jesus’ feet. I embrace the blessings He sends my way.

I affirm this truth: It is Sweet in the Middle!

 

About the Author:

Robin Steinweg says life is like a sandwich-cookie. Whatever circumstances close in on us, it can be Sweet in the Middle. Her writings can be found in Today’s Christian Woman, Upper Room, Secret Place and The Christian Pulse. She also writes monthly for Music Teachers Helper blog.

Tags:  burnout, caregiving, grief, Julie Arduini, marriage, Stuck in the Middle, Sweet in the Middle by Robin Steinweg, WordGirls Guest Bloggers




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 COTT: Celebrate COTT's 5th Year with a Kindle Giveaway  Book Review: God is Able by Priscilla Shirer  Memorial Day: The Lord be with you All  Sabbath Sunday: Waving a Flag but Not Living Free  Write Integrity Press Christmas: Celebrating Christ's BirthdayCopyright © Julie Arduini [Robin Steinweg: Sweet in the Middle], All Right Reserved. 2017.

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Savoring the Not-So-Perfect Life by Michelle Rayburn

Savoring the Not-So-Perfect Life

by Michelle Rayburn

 

(For September 10 – National TV Dinner Day)

 

When I was young, my mother cooked most meals from scratch, baked six loaves of bread every week and canned enough vegetables to feed the neighborhood if we ever had to retreat to a bomb shelter. But on occasion, we had TV dinners when she worked the evening shift at the hospital and my dad had to feed us three kids.

 

Savoring the Not-So-Perfect Life
by Michelle Rayburn

September 10 is National TV Dinner Day, and it has me reminiscing about those foil-covered aluminum trays with frozen mystery meat and gravy, blobs of mashed potatoes, corn and chocolate pudding—because who doesn’t cook their pudding in the oven, right?

 

In those pre-microwave days, we peeled back the foil to reveal the ready-to-eat meal when the oven timer buzzed. The actual contents were always somewhat of a surprise compared with the images on the box. For one thing, the portions were more appropriately toddler-sized, and looking back, this explains why my dad chased his meal with a giant bowl of fudge ripple ice cream.

 

Nothing looked as appetizing as the box, either. The gravy sort of oozed from the mystery meat over to the corn, and pooled in the pudding.

 

Isn’t life a little like that sometimes? Before it becomes our reality, the idea of growing up, getting married, establishing a career or becoming parents looks magazine-worthy in the images we build in our minds. And after all the anticipation, we peel back the foil and suddenly it looks a lot messier than expected.

 

As a recovering perfectionist, I’ve learned some lessons to get me through my TV dinner life:

Savor every bite of happiness. There is goodness there when we look for it. Turns out, even mystery meat can be delicious!
Toss out unrealistic expectations and embrace the imperfection of real life. Accepting what I have instead of longing for a picture on a box has brought me such contentment.
Enjoy the fun of the experience. For me, TV dinners weren’t really about the contents of the box. They were about the fun of doing something different with my dad—maybe even actually eating in front of the TV. Too often, I can miss life’s fun if I let complaining take over.

 

What’s in your TV dinner life? It’s a great day for a perspective change—and maybe a trip to the frozen food aisle, just for fun.

 

About the Author:

Michelle Rayburn is a writer and speaker who enjoys repurposing thrift sale finds into creative decorations for home and garden. She also loves finding gems in the trashy stuff of life. She is the author of The Repurposed and Upcycled Life: When God Turns Trash to Treasure. www.michellerayburn.com

 

 

Tags:  family, Julie Arduini, Michelle Rayburn, National TV Dinner Day, Savoring the Not-So-Perfect Life by Michelle Rayburn, tv dinners, WordGirls Guest Bloggers




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 Speaking of Speaking: An Update  A Highland Pearl Character Interview by Brenda B. Taylor  Book Review: The Fifth Disciple by Cynthia Bove  Starting Over  COTT: Londonderry Dreaming by Christine LindsayCopyright © Julie Arduini [Savoring the Not-So-Perfect Life by Michelle Rayburn], All Right Reserved. 2017.

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Cancer: A Word that Strikes Terror by Joanie Shawhan

Cancer: A Word that Strikes Terror

by Joanie Shawhan

Are there certain words that trigger pressure in your chest or tightness in your throat?

For me, that word is cancer.

I am an ovarian cancer survivor.

My Story

During the summer of 2006, Every time I had another bout of nausea, I brushed thoughts of ovarian cancer from my mind. Surely these spells were too infrequent to be cancer.

But in September, I rolled over in bed and felt a grapefruit-size mass in my abdomen. I closed my eyes and dismissed the whispers of ovarian cancer.

Several weeks later, I almost shot off the table when my physical therapist palpated my spine to isolate the location of my back pain. It’s not in my back, it’s jabbing through my abdomen!

My gynecologist suspected a uterine fibroid and ordered an ultrasound. Even in the dark room, I saw the ultrasound tech lock her eyes on mine. Something is seriously wrong.

Gripping the ultrasound report in her hand, my doctor said, “You have ovarian cancer, the size of a cantaloupe.” She rattled off all that needed done—scheduling tests and surgery. I barely heard her words. Was she talking to me?

 When I walked into the hospital on surgery day, I exchanged my scrubs and nurse shoes for tieback gowns and skid-free slipper socks. The surgeon removed a volleyball-size tumor—ovarian cancer.

Today, I am cancer-free. During my treatment, I lost myself to ovarian cancer, but in losing myself, I found a new purpose and calling. Today I have an encouragement ministry to women undergoing chemotherapy. I advocate for and educate women and healthcare professionals regarding ovarian cancer. I write articles so that other women won’t put off getting checked out if they have any signs or symptoms, like I did.

September is National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Ovarian cancer is the most lethal of all female cancers. The symptoms women experience prior to diagnosis may be vague or similar to other diseases. This causes some doctors to rule out other causes before they discover ovarian cancer, which is why it is often not diagnosed until later stages.

Cancer: A Word that Strikes Terror by Joanie Shawhan

 

 

 

Contact your doctor if the following symptoms of ovarian cancer persist:

 

·         Gastrointestinal symptoms:

Bloating, indigestion, nausea, feeling full or loss of appetite

·         Pelvic or low back pressure or pain

·         Urinating more frequently

·         Changes in bowel patterns

·         Tired or low energy

 

 

Ovarian cancer used to be called the silent killer, but survival rates are high if discovered in the early stages. Learn from my story. Will you listen for the whispers of ovarian cancer?

 

About the Author:

Joanie Shawhan is an ovarian cancer survivor and a registered nurse. She writes encouraging articles for women undergoing chemotherapy. Her publishing credits include Coping with Cancer magazine and God Still Meets Needs. She speaks to medical practitioners in the Survivors Teaching Students program. Check out her blog at www.joanieshawhan.com.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tags:  cancer survivor, Cancer: A Word that Strikes Terror by Joanie Shawhan, encouragement, guest blogger, Joanie Shawhan, Julie Arduini, ministry for cancer patients, ovarian cancer, ovarian cancer symptoms




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 CD Winner + Chocolate Reminder  COTT: Introducing Jaime Marsman and The Knitting Fairy  Book Review: The Dance by Dan Walsh and Gary Smalley  Guest Blogger: Meditations for the Modern Woman by L.R. Houseman  Character Confession: Done Being QuietCopyright © Julie Arduini [Cancer: A Word that Strikes Terror by Joanie Shawhan], All Right Reserved. 2017.

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Kathy Carlton Willis: Where Does that Grin Come From?

Where Does that Grin Come From?

by Kathy Carlton Willis

 

I’m often asked, “How can you keep grinning despite the challenges in your life? It has nothing to do with me. It has to do with the God in whom I put my trust. Knowing “He’s got this” helps me carry on (in hope) rather than to carry on (complain)!

 

Grinning instead of grimacing comes from the discipline of thinking on glorious victorious thoughts outside the current stinky situation.

 

First I get my imaginary lariat out and wrangle those negative thoughts that attempt to defeat me.

 

We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ. (2 Corinthians 10:5 ESV)

 

Once I evict those destructive thoughts, I fill the void with healthful and helpful thoughts. Thoughts that line up with the mind of Christ.

 

Where Does that Grin Come From by Kathy Carlton Willis

Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. …Then the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4:8b-9 NLT)

 

If I practice this passage in Philippians, it might look something like this. I’m going to fix my thoughts on what is:

 

True: I remember the extreme way God answered my prayer to provide for our family.
Honorable: I’m blown away by the way that writer stays humble when others try to put her on a pedestal.
Right: I respect the decision this politician made to choose an unpopular but godly path.
Pure: How precious the gift of life is when I see photos of the much prayed for Lyla.
Lovely: How beautiful are the wildflowers dressing up that field.
Admirable: I see integrity in the choice Russ made to not malign a wrongdoer.
Excellent: I respect how she endures through her weight-training routine.
Worthy of praise: God’s faithfulness is something I can count on.

 

Are you having a hard time grinning this week? What will your fix list look like?

 

About the Author:

God’s Grin Gal, Kathy Carlton Willis, shines the light on what holds you back so you can grow. She’s a popular speaker and writer’s coach. Read her book, Grin with Grace, or find more information at: http://www.kathycarltonwillis.com/.

 

Tags:  2 Corinthians 10, Bible, encouragement, grin, guest blogger, Julie Arduini, Kathy Carlton Willis, Kathy Carlton Willis: Where Does That Grin Come From?, Philippians 4, WordGirls Guest Bloggers




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 Guest Blogger Laura Hodges Poole: My Middle Name is Not 'Doormat' (& Neither is Yours)  Sabbath Sunday: Chosen  Surprised by Tears by Teri Wangard  A2Z Letter C---Cover Up My Crafts  Book Review: From the Library of A.W. Tozer compiled by James Stuart BellCopyright © Julie Arduini [Kathy Carlton Willis: Where Does that Grin Come From?], All Right Reserved. 2017.

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ACFW Fiction Finder: September New Releases

September 2017 New Releases

More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website.

Contemporary Romance:

Planting Hope by Brenda S. Anderson — Jess Beaumont is trying to get her separated parents together again by restoring the family cabin gardens that helped them fall in love. Luke Harrison inherited his Gran’s candy store, but would rather have a Vice President position in his family’s land development business—a sure sign of his father’s approval. To get the promotion, he must acquire the land on both sides of his store within five months, including the Beaumont cabin. As Luke gets to know Jess, he realizes buying the Beaumont cabin and land will nip their blossoming romance in the bud. Even worse, it could end her parents’ marriage. But if he doesn’t succeed, he could be trading his corner office for the candy store counter…for good. Is their romance doomed? Or could the classic combination of chocolate and flowers solve everything? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

An Amish Christmas Love by Amy Clipston, Kelly Irvin, Ruth Reid, and Beth Wiseman — Fall in love this Christmas to the gentle pace of Amish courtship. In Winter Kisses by Beth Wiseman, six lonely hearts find healing in the Stoltzfus homestead basement while waiting out a Christmas Eve storm. In The Christmas Cat by Amy Clipston, a group of young people and a forbidden house cat bring reminders of love and hope to a grieving widow at Christmas. In Snow Angels by Kelly Irvin, A young woman’s prayer for a Christmas proposal is delayed by the appearance of her potential groom’s first love, whom me met on his rumspringa. In Home for Christmas by Ruth Reid, an Englisch woman thinks she’s breaking into the house her aenti left to her, only to discover she’s trespassing upon an Amish widower and his young daughter, whose quiet way of life tempts her to stay. (Contemporary Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing)

Magnolia Storms by Janet W. Ferguson –Maggie Marovich lost her father to Hurricane Katrina, so she’s dedicated her life to meteorology and plans never to return to the Mississippi Coast or the ship pilot she once loved—until a family crisis sends her running headlong into a storm. (Contemporary, Independently Published)

The Christmas Admirer by Laura V. Hilton — Susanna’s left with three options: one, go with Daed to his new home with a new mom; two, stay in Jamesport, Missouri, as an old maid; or, three, the best yet, flush out her mysterious secret admirer. But how could she be with anyone else when her heart is still with Benaiah? (Contemporary Romance from Whitaker House)

Finding Love in Friday Harbor, Washington by Annette Irby — Professor Mikaela Rhoades has a plan: she’ll encourage her students’ marine biology research through an exclusive program while helping an old family friend’s whale touring business stay afloat. The challenge is the tour captain is her first love and ex-fiancé. Mikaela longs to help his family in the wake of his father’s death, but she’s keeping secrets. Captain Hunter Cahill has taken over the family touring business after his father’s death. Unfortunately, he’s drowning in grief and accumulated debt. To make matters more difficult, he’d promised his father to pursue Mikaela if she ever returned to the island single. But what will it cost him to spend the summer romancing Mikaela? (Contemporary Romance from Mountain Brook Ink)

Returning Home by Toni Shiloh — Jo Ellen Baker is shocked to find out that the boy who teased her mercilessly throughout high school, has returned to their hometown of Freedom Lake, and he’s missing a leg. When his mother asks her to renovate their carriage house to give him a place to gain his independence back, she wants to say no. But one look at him brings a rush of forgotten feelings. Evan Carter can’t believe he has to return home and live with his parents. Every hope and dream he ever had dissipated in a car crash that cost him his leg. Stuck in a wheelchair, he’s forced to reexamine his relationship with God and the local carpenter, Jo Ellen Baker. Will renovating his home open the door for a mended relationship, or are some wounds too deep to heal from? (Contemporary, Independently Published)

All This Time by Melissa Tagg — Ten years ago, Bear McKinley gave up everything—his freedom and his reputation—for his mess of a family. But after years of distance and too many attempts at starting over, he finally has a new life doing noble work in Brazil . . . until his past catches up to him. Raegan Walker is happy working a slew of part-time jobs, still living in her childhood bedroom and rarely venturing from her hometown. At least, that’s what she tells everyone . . . and herself. But she can’t help wondering what might’ve happened if she hadn’t abandoned her art so many years ago—and if Bear McKinley had never left. When Bear returns and she’s commissioned for a painting that just might revive her artistic ambition all in one week, it’s time to finally reach for more. But doing so means facing the fears that have held her back all this time, including admitting the secret she’s kept from Bear and her family. With her dream and her heart on the line, how much will Raegan have to risk to finally chase her happy ending? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Home All Along by Beth Wiseman — Charlotte has made a home for herself in Amish Country with Daniel. But unforeseen events rock their fragile world and may move them even further away from the life they long for. Charlotte, an Englisher, is living in Amish Country, and fallen in love with an Amish man. But just when she is considering a permanent conversion to the Amish way of life, her world crashes around her. An unexpected death and a mysterious visitor unsettle Charlotte, and she begins to question her faith and her choices. Will Charlotte and Daniel’s relationship succumb to the many pressures around them, or will their faith and community help them become strong enough to build a life together? (Contemporary Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing)

General Contemporary:



Mercy Triumphs by Jana Kelley — Mia, an American Christian, has lived in Sudan so long that persecution, harassment, and danger have become commonplace for her. Her tough outer shell threatens to harden her heart while her newly Christian friends, Halimah and Rania, former Muslims, are forced to live in exile outside Sudan. All three quickly discover that escaping danger in one place only means facing even greater challenges elsewhere. As God’s mercy becomes evident in their lives, they must choose whether or not to offer mercy to those who don’t deserve it. Based on real-life events, Mercy Triumphs reveals some of the struggles Christians face when living under Islamic law. (General from New Hope Publishers)

Life in Chapel Springs by Ane Mulligan — Is it a midlife pregnancy or … cancer? Claire will keep her secret until she’s sure but it isn’t easy. Neither is trying to buy a home pregnancy test without anyone finding out. Between her twins double wedding, the caterer cancelling, a looming nationwide art tour and her health, Claire s life is upside down. Meanwhile, shy Lacey Dawson faces the emotional effects of traumatic injuries requiring facial reconstruction, and rumors of gold in Chapel Springs have greedy investors clamoring to buy all the homes in town and mine the gold. Will life in Chapel Springs ever be the same? (General from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas)

Historical:

A Conspiracy of Breath by Latayne C. Scott — What would it have been like to be a woman, a Gentile, and someone onto whom the Holy Breath moved – to produce what became the mysterious Epistle to the Hebrews in the Bible? (Historical from TSU Press [Trinity Southwest University])

Queen of Sheba by Jill Eileen Smith — King Solomon meets his equal in the Queen of Sheba and does his best to give her everything she seeks to find, but will he be able to give her the deepest longing of her heart? (Historical from Revell – A Division of Baker Publishing)

Historical Romance:

These Healing Hills by Ann H. Gabhart — When life takes an unexpected turn, Francine Howard finds work in the mountains as a midwife where healing and love await her. (Historical Romance from Revell – A Division of Baker Publishing)

12 Days at Bleakly Manor by Michelle Griep — Clara Chapman receives an intriguing invitation and is promised a sum of five hundred pounds if she will remain a guest at Bleakly Manor for the duration of a twelve-day Christmas celebration. Then she learns Benjamin Lane, who left her at the altar, is also in attendance. Imprisoned unjustly, Ben wants revenge on whomever stole his honor. Torn between money, revenge, and love, will Clara and Ben last the full twelve days at Bleakly Manor and learn what matters most at Christmas? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

Mystery:

When the Bishop Needs and Alibi by Vannetta Chapman — Amish bishop Henry Lapp eagerly awaits the annual arrival of 20,000 sandhill cranes to the San Luis Valley of Colorado. But his visit to the Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge reveals more than just a miracle of God’s creation. Hidden among the bulrushes and cattails is the deceased body of a young woman. As the local authorities attempt to unravel the mystery, Henry feels God’s calling to use his extraordinary talent to aid in the investigation. His ability to draw from memory in photographic detail could help solve this puzzling case. Henry’s closest friend, Emma Fisher, has always urged him to embrace his gift. As their relationship deepens, Henry realizes his involvement could put him and those he loves in the direct path of a killer, one who is willing to do anything to cover up a brutal crime, including framing the bishop. (Mystery from Harvest House)

The House Next Door by Susan Page Davis — As Jennifer’s due date approaches, Harvey decides to invest in real estate, unaware of the terror this will cause his family. A hidden cupboard isn’t so bad—in fact, it’s almost fun to try to solve the little mystery inside it. But will any of their loved ones want to live next door after they learn what’s in the basement? (Mystery, Independently Published)

Solve by Christmas by Amber Schamel — Detective Jasper Hollock thought he wanted nothing more than a real case. But when the man who raised him stands on the brink of suicide and mysterious incidents sabotage the factory, Jasper has 24 days to unravel the malicious plot and convince his employer that life is worth living. (Mystery, Independently Published)

Romantic Suspense:

Justice Buried by Patricia Bradley — A security specialist is accused of murder and must clear her name or her career is over, but her investigation draws her into the path of a killer, and she finds herself fighting for her life. When a man from her past is called in to investigate, she may find that he’s the biggest security threat yet . . . to her heart. (Romantic Suspense from Revell – A Division of Baker Publishing)

Rescued Hearts by Hope Toler Dougherty — An innocent bike ride leads to a hostage situation, jeopardizing an undercover mission and two stubborn hearts. (Romantic Suspense from Mantle Rock Publishing)

Deadly Proof by Rachel Dylan — A female attorney hires a former Army Ranger turned private investigator to help research an alleged pharmaceutical cover-up. As the case deepens, both hearts and lives become endangered. It appears someone is willing to risk everything–even murder–to keep the case from going to trial. (Romantic Suspense from Bethany House [Baker])

Uncharted Hope by Keely Brooke Keith —

Sophia Ashton must prove herself in her new job while researching the gray leaf medicine and dealing with her toxic family. (Romantic Suspense from Edenbrooke Press)

Thriller/Suspense:

Crown of Souls by Ronie Kendig — Perhaps the only person as skilled as Cole “Tox” Russell is Alec King, a rogue Special Forces operator who vanished months ago. Now he’s back, and he’s out for justice. Furious with orders that got his men killed, he intends to make those responsible pay. And he insists Tox join him, believing they are the same breed of soldier. Afraid his old friend could be right, Tox battles a growing darkness within himself as he and his team are forced into another deadly encounter with antiquity. It appears Alec is harnessing the power of a mysterious artifact, a crown that history has linked to some of the worst slaughters in humanity. Racing to stop Alec before his vengeance is unleashed, Tox must fight the monster without becoming one. (Military Suspense from Bethany House [Baker])

Witness Protection by Carol Kinsey — After four years in witness protection, Ty Westgate’s identity has been exposed – with the help of a struggling nurse, the ex-lawyer with a new faith must work to unravel the truth behind his adversaries before he’s silenced permanently. (Thriller/Suspense, Independently Published)

 

 

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Tags:  12 Days at Bleakly Manor, A Conspiracy of Breath, ACFW, ACFW Fiction Finder: September 2017 New Releases, All this Time, Amber Schamel, An Amish Christmas Love, Ane Mulligan, Ann. H. Gabhart, Annette Irby, authors, Beth Wiseman, Brenda S. Anderson, Carol Kinsey, Christian authors, Christmas Admirer, Crown of Souls, Deadly Proof, fiction, Fiction Finder, Finding Love in Friday Harbor, Home All Along, Hope Toler Dougherty, Jana Kelley, Janet W. Ferguson, Jill Eileen Smith, Julie Arduini, Justice Buried, Keely Brooke Keith, Latayne C. Scott, Laura V. Hilton, Life in Chapel Springs, Magnolia Storms, Melissa Tagg, Mercy Triumphs, Michelle Griep, Patricia Bradley, Planting Hope, Queen of Sheba, Rachel Dylan, Rescued Hearts, Returning Home, Ronie Kendig, Solve by Christmas, Susan Page Davis, The House Next Door, These Healing Hills, Toni Shiloh, Unchartered Hope, Vannetta Chapman, Washington, When the Bishop Needs an Alibi, witness protection




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 Who is a Step-Parent (And Proud of It?)  Sabbath Sunday: Get Your Feet Wet  Chuck E. Cheese and the Last Days  Book Review: Gillian's Heart by B.J. Bassett  Summer Survey--Julie Arduini StyleCopyright © Julie Arduini [ACFW Fiction Finder: September New Releases], All Right Reserved. 2017.

The post ACFW Fiction Finder: September New Releases appeared first on Julie Arduini.

A Child’s Life of Christ by Katheryn Maddox Haddad

A Child’s Life of Christ: STAR SONG

Storybook #1 in Series THEY MET JESUS

 

 

It is September and time to think about school. If you home school your children, this series would be perfect for you. If you are a grandmother, you could keep a set in your home for when the young ones come to spend the night.

These story books have the same covers as the grown-up books. The type is much larger and more lively. Each chapter has a good work suggestion for the child.

Book 1 is entirely the Christmas story with Mary Joseph, the shepherds, the wise men, and everyone else. Here is a sample from chapter one.

1 ~ MARY

 

Mary was a teenager who loved little children just like you, and grownups just like those who live in your home. She also loved God.

 

People didn’t have refrigerators back then. So, every morning Mary walked to the market to buy groceries so she could help her mother fix meals for the family.

 

But sometimes when she did, she saw people walking with canes because their legs hurt, or people coughing because they had a cold.

 

Sometimes she saw children fighting each other or grownups arguing.

 

Sometimes she saw foreign soldiers who controlled her country. They wore weapons at their side. Sometimes they took people to jail and made them very sad.

 

It bothered Mary that bad things sometimes happened to people. But she knew she couldn’t do anything about it because she was too young.

 

So Mary prayed that God would do something about it. God made the world and all little children and grownups. He loved everyone, so he could help.

 

One day when Mary was alone, an angel suddenly appeared to her. His name was Gabriel. Can you say Gabriel? He was smiling.

 

Gabriel had wonderful news for her. She was going to have a baby ~ God’s own Son whom he was sending to live with us. Then God’s Son could help us.

 

Mary was to name this baby JESUS. He would start a new kingdom of peace that everyone who wanted to could live in.

 

This kingdom would start on earth. But some day everyone in his kingdom would be taken to heaven to live forever with God himself. Then there would be no more suffering and sadness.

 

 Mary had always thought she was too young to help people. She found out she could help after all through her baby by taking good care of him.

 

 

 

THINK & DO

 

Every boy and girl can help others, no matter how young they are. Is there something you can do today to help someone who is hurting in their mind or their body?

 

You will make them smile. You will make God smile. You, too, will smile.

Purchase Star Song: A Child’s Life of Christ

 

Tags:  Bible, children, Julie Arduini, Katheryn Maddox Haddad, Star Song: A Child's Life of Christ




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 Thankful for Life by Eleanor Gustafson  Rumspringa's Hope by Beth Shriver---Kindle Fire Giveaway  And the Survey Says...  WFW: Twice as Many Have's  Thankful: Lynn Mosher's Thankful for Habakkuk's ExampleCopyright © Julie Arduini [A Child's Life of Christ by Katheryn Maddox Haddad], All Right Reserved. 2017.

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Excerpt: Ransom in Rio by Theresa Lynn Hall

Excerpt from Ransom in Rio, Theresa Lynn Hall

Her worst nightmare had come to life.

Now, the fear of what she would do if it ever happened was over, but the loss of her brother came with a burden she hadn’t foreseen. It left her to deal with her family alone. To carry the legacy. To protect the empire. To convince everyone to believe the lies.

“He was always so careful,” she muttered to herself as she drove.

Snow had started falling as the last “Amen” was said at the cemetery. The heavy white powder made the pale, yellow lines on the road fade in and out of sight. Lexi tugged her sweater tighter around her body with one hand and gripped the steering wheel with the other. The funeral had drained her of what little emotional strength she had left. It was crazy, but several times throughout the day she’d found herself picking up her phone to see if Jace had messaged her. He used to text or call every day. Silly stuff sometimes, like never walk the dog with no shoes on. Once he’d texted that he had the hiccups.

“I just can’t believe he’s gone.” Lexi glanced at her friend. She didn’t expect Kristy to say anything. Nothing she could say would make the pain go away.

Jace had been the perfect big brother, Lexi’s best friend. From an early age, they learned that sticking together in a dysfunctional family was their only hope. One thing Lexi knew for certain was that Jace wouldn’t leave her here alone. He would not have put himself in danger for a stupid fishing trip. His chance to break free of their crazy family was finally around the corner. He’d just bought his girlfriend an engagement ring. They had plans to move to New York as soon as the wedding was over. Now he was gone. None of it made any sense. Why was she the only person who could see that something was wrong with ruling the cause of death as accidental?

Lexi brushed at her red hair with a careless hand and caught a glimpse of her swollen, blue eyes in the rearview mirror. She hardly resembled her brother at all—a fact that had always bothered her, but she’d never questioned it the way Jace had. He had always asked where he’d gotten his blonde hair.

“Lexi, why don’t you stay with me tonight?”

The sound of Kristy’s voice startled her. “I’m sorry. I’m really out of it.” She smiled and wiped a stray tear from her cheek. “Thank you for everything. You’ve done more than enough for me over the past few days.”

“You know I’m always here.” “I know.” She swallowed hard. “Kristy…”

“What’s wrong?” “I can’t stop thinking…I just don’t think this was
an accident. It couldn’t be. Jace didn’t even like to fish. He wouldn’t charter a boat to go fishing in Cozumel. He liked nice restaurants, museums, theaters. Not fishing. And then there’s the fact that he didn’t take Selena with him. He always had Selena with him. Why doesn’t anyone else seem to think this is odd?”

“I don’t know. Now that you bring it up, Jace wasn’t much of a risk-taker.”

“Exactly. The strangest thing is that Selena said he told her he would be back in an hour. He only left for one hour. Who charters a fishing boat for only an hour?”

“Did Selena tell you why he didn’t take her?”

“She didn’t say, and I didn’t want to ask her a lot of questions. Not yet.”

Kristy nodded. “I saw her today. She’s really not handling this well.”

“No one is.” She pulled into Kristy’s driveway. It was a relief to be off the snowy roads.

No matter how she looked at this, her brother’s death could not have been an accident. Somehow, she would prove that he didn’t drown on a fishing trip. She would prove Jace was murdered.




Buy Links
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Tags:  author, excerpt, Excerpt: Ransom in Rio by Theresa Lynn Hall, fiction, Julie Arduini, New Release, Ransom in Rio, Theresa Lynn Hall




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 COTT: Vote for Your Favorite Read  Book Review: The Stars Shine Bright by Sibella Giorello  Book Review: The Adventures of Pajama Girl and the Coronation of the Cupcake Queen by Sandra Hagee Parker  How to Become a (Romance) Author  12 Pearls of Christmas | Day 12 - Does it Even Matter? by Tracey EysterCopyright © Julie Arduini [Excerpt: Ransom in Rio by Theresa Lynn Hall], All Right Reserved. 2017.

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Don’t Miss This: Ransom in Rio by Theresa Lynn Hall

Don’t Miss This: Ransom in Rio
Private Investigator, Braden McCoy wants nothing more than to finish out the week doing a little fishing from his boat. The ex-special ops vet enjoys his peaceful life and loves his new career. He’s learned to put his past behind him and enjoy his blessings. Until a mourning redhead walks into his office and changes his plans.
Lexi Ramos always knew her family was dysfunctional. Until the sudden death of her brother, she never knew exactly how much. Consumed with questions surrounding his accident, she seeks the help of a private investigator. What starts out as a murder investigation in Cozumel, quickly crosses borders and escalates into a race against time to save them both from Brazilian kidnappers, who somehow know more about her family secrets than she does. Lexi soon realizes that life comes with a price.


BIO
As a native Texan, Theresa loves to write suspenseful stories that happen in small Texas towns with old fashioned Southern values. She’s an elementary teacher and mom to two boys—the oldest being in law enforcement, which comes in handy when she’s researching. When she’s not teaching kids or writing, she loves to cook, read a good suspense, and binge-watch episodes of Dateline. She is a member of RWA (Romance Writers of America) and ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers). She actively promotes fellow Christian Fiction authors on her blog. She also loves to hear from readers who enjoy Christian Fiction and can be found at www.theresalynnhall.com and @theresalynnhall.

Personal links
www.facebook.com/theresalynnhall
www.twitter.com/theresalynnhall
www.pinterest.com/theresalynnhall
www.theresalynnhall.com
www.instagram.com/theresalynnhall
Buy Links
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Tags:  author, book spotlight, Christian author, Don't Miss This: Ransom in Rio by Theresa Lynn Hall, fiction, Julie Arduini, Ransom in Rio, Theresa Lynn Hall




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 Part 2: God Bless the Broken Road by Jennifer Dornbush  Sabbath Sunday: Christmas Season Rest  Guest Blogger Carla Anne Coroy: Are You a Martyr Mom?  Character Confession: I'm in Love, I'm in Love and I Don't Care Who Knows It!  Book Review: Pulling Back the Shades: Erotica, Intimacy, and the Longings of a Woman's Heart by Dannah Gresh and Dr. Juli SlatteryCopyright © Julie Arduini [Don't Miss This: Ransom in Rio by Theresa Lynn Hall], All Right Reserved. 2017.

The post Don’t Miss This: Ransom in Rio by Theresa Lynn Hall appeared first on Julie Arduini.