Book Review: Colors of Love An inspirational Coloring Book

About the book:

"Give thanks to the Lord, because he is good; his love is eternal."--1 Chronicles 16:34
Being creative is one of the ways we reflect the image of God. Colors of Love not only provides you with creative inspiration but also offers a fun and relaxing way to reduce stress and renew your strength. It's filled with beautiful pictures that celebrate God's unending love and inspiring Scripture verses on the theme of love. Color these any time you need encouragement and display them anywhere you need a reminder of the love of God.

My Reflections:

I was so excited to order this adult coloring book for review. I have done many in the past and been so thrilled with the beauty and intricacy of the coloring samples. 

Unfortunately, I was disappointed with the quality of this particular book.  The coloring pages are very basic and plain. The lines are bold, and there is no challenge to the pattern and design of the coloring pages. The pictures do not fit the pages, there is mostly a small picture with a lot of white space around it. Perhaps this is to journal, or just doodle? It just feels like it is geared for a much young audience. 

I did, however, enjoy that it included scripture, but unfortunately even those are very basic in nature, I was hoping for an "inspirational" type adult coloring book, but sadly this one did not meet my expectations.

If you are looking for a coloring book for your children, this may be an excellent fit. I don't usually give negative reviews, but I can't say I'm a fan of this one. 

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc

Lisa Joy Samson is an artist and the author of nearly forty books, including the inspirational coloring books Colors of Hope and Colors of Faith. She lives in Colorado.

Lisa Joy Samson

Lisa Joy Samson is the author of nearly forty books, including Colors of Hope and Quaker Summer, which was named novel of the year by both Women of Faith and Christianity Today. Her chief creative love has always been art, and she has...

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Book Review: Too Far Down

From the Back:

With Danger Drawing Ever Closer, The Boden Clan Risk Losing Their Ranch Forever
Having returned home to the ranch, Cole Boden finds himself caught between missing his time back east and appreciating all that New Mexico Territory offers. Sure, he fights with his siblings now and then, but he does care for them. He enjoys his new job running the mine and, when he's honest, he admits that Melanie Blake captures his interest in a way no other woman ever has.

Melanie has been a friend to the Bodens forever. A cowgirl who is more comfortable with horses and lassoes than people, she never expected to find herself falling for someone, particularly for refined Cole Boden, a Harvard graduate who can't seem to make up his mind about staying in New Mexico.

When a deadly explosion damages the CR Mining Company, the Bodens realize their troubles are not behind them as they thought. Shadowy forces are still working against them. Melanie is determined to help Cole, and the family finally put an end to the danger that's threatened all of them. But will putting herself in harm's way be more dangerous than anyone expected?

My Reflections:
This is the third and final book in the Cimarron Legacy series, and indeed, doesn't disappoint! From page one on Connealy propels her readers on with mystery and action alike. 

My favorite character in this one was Cole, such a twist having a cowboy slash city educated man who is grappling with his place in the world. Having spent ten years with his maternal grandparents in the big city, he is not sure where he wants to end up, or who he wants to end up with. I loved how things fell into place rather quickly. The adorable love story was perfect.

The story doesn't end with romance. However, this story is all western, lassoed with suspense and mystery, complete and perfect. You will want to read the entire series to these to fully grasp the family tribulations and storyline. I would start with, No Way Up and continue with Long Time Gone, this will foster your understanding and give you the complete backstory.

If you are looking for a new series with a fast-paced plot, a little of everything and some endearing love stories this series is for you!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc
Mary Connealy

Mary Connealy writes "romantic comedies with cowboys" and is celebrated for her fun, zany, action-packed style. She has more than half a million books in print. She is the author of the popular series Wild at Heart, Kincaid Brides, Trouble in Texas,...

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Book Review: The Royal Chef At Home, Easy Seasonal Entertaining

The Royal Chef at Home – Easy Seasonal Entertaining

Royal watchers have been busy this year, and with the holidays right around the corner, Princess Diana’s former personal chef is making it possible for every-day people to make palace-worthy dishes in their own kitchen. In The Royal Chef At Home: Easy Seasonal Entertaining, Darren McGrady, “The Royal Chef”, provides home cooks with multi-course meal plans that will ease the minds of the home cook.

With two decades working in North American kitchens, McGrady’s brand-new recipes reflect modern flavour, hearty cooking and gourmet palates, but always with a touch of palace elegance. This highly giftable book featuring 224 pages of recipes, intermingled with engaging stories and stunning photography, will become a treasured entertaining handbook.

McGrady shares,

“The years I spent working in the kitchens of Buckingham Palace, Windsor and Balmoral Castles cooking for the British royal family taught me the fundamentals of cuisine and trained me as a chef. But being a chef is my job; being a cook is who I am. For me it is about beauty, nourishment, friendship and love. While I like to cook for myself, it’s sharing food with family and friends that brings me the greatest satisfaction.”

McGrady’s heart for family, friends, and food, is evident on every page of this new cookbook. Each category of recipes is preceded by a note from McGrady, presented in his conversational, uplifting writing style. The book is organized by season with some events highlighted, including: Thanksgiving for a crowd, Christmas celebrations, Valentine’s dinner for two, proper Sunday dinner, Mother’s Day and “fire up the grill”.

McGrady provides ingredients, substitutions and alternatives, making this a convenient resource for individuals and families with unique dietary needs. The Royal Chef At Home also includes a section called “Notes on Entertaining” with tips and tricks to help lighten the load and make even the largest of celebrations come off without a hitch.

My Reflections:

Chef to the British Royal family, Darren McGrady shares some of his favorite, most desirable meals, desserts and more in his newest book, "The Royal Chef at Home."

Entertaining can be a simple, yet elegant affair, and we don't have to be a royal chef to do it either!  Chef McGrady will teach you how to present gorgeous dishes, with a British flair. 

This book is easy to use, the index is divided into seasonal dishes and fun ideas, very cleverly laid out!

I loved some of the titles, An elegant tea, Mardi Gras Dance and Drink, Graduation Celebration, Superfoods and Healthy Cooking to name just a few.
My favorite section was, "An Elegant Tea" My grandparents were British and had "tea time." I grew up loving this simple, yet indulgent time of the day! 

Mind you there were no potted shrimp dishes. Shortbread occasionally made an appearance though! 

Grandma would approve of this book, of that I am sure!

I really enjoyed that this is not your everyday cookbook, it is so much more. It is a guide to entertaining and not merely preparing the dishes but also the presentation of them. All this ensconced in a beautifully presented package of glossy decedent pictures and hardbound with a dust jacket, very proper, indeed!

This is the second book Darren McGrady, has published, the first I have read by this author. I can honestly say, Yes, please! Wonder if he makes house calls? I need a personal chef too!

"You don't have to be Royalty to eat like one," I liked that quote!

 So if you are looking for that perfect gift this holiday season, the one for the person who has it all, this cookbook will most certainly be a treat.
Get ready to salivate all over the glossy yumminess of this cookbook!


About the Authur:
Darren McGrady was personal chef to Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Diana and Princes’ William and Harry for fifteen years and has cooked for five US Presidents. He is an author, culinary consultant and public speakers and runs Eating Royally, Fine Dining Catering Company in Dallas, Texas. His first cookbook titled ‘Eating Royally; Recipes and Remembrances from a Palace Kitchen’ is now in sixth print with all of his advance and royalties donated to the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation.

Book Review: Blind Spot

From the Back:

The Wrath is Coming. But They Don't Know Where--Or When.
"The wrath is coming" were the final words that FBI agent Declan Grey heard the suicide bomber say. Now Declan is in the chase of his life--but isn't sure exactly what he's chasing after or when the threat will be unleashed on American soil. When his investigation's best clue leads him to a closed immigrant community, he turns to Tanner Shaw for assistance. She's sought justice for refugees and the displaced around the world, and if there's anyone who can help him, it's Tanner.

Tanner Shaw has joined the FBI as a crisis counselor . . . meaning she now has more opportunity to butt heads with Declan. As they work together to uncover the mounting threat, the tension between them also includes a spark she can't deny--and she's pretty sure Declan feels the same. But before anything more can develop, they find themselves in a race against time to stop the coming "wrath" that could cost thousands their lives. 

My Reflections:

Oh boy, Dani Pettrey's newest thriller is a slightly creepy, and a lot gruesome. Did I mention I get scared easily?
I am definitely a fan of this author work and look forward to any book she has penned, this series is no exception! To get the most out of your reading experience, I think these novels should be read in order, although since there are no spoilers in the first two books, you could read them out of sequence. 
Blind Spot is a synergetic blend of two competing stories battling it out for the spotlight. There are apparent suspects and storylines, but don't be lulled into submission because this book takes the ordinary and throws it out the window. You will not find a predictable plot in this one, my friends! Wrap up by the fire and grab your cuppa tea.

If you are looking for a book that will keep you on edge, with a little romance good faith values Blind Spot is just that book!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc

© Michael Pettrey Photography

Dani Pettrey

Praised by New York Times bestselling author Dee Henderson as "a name to look for in romantic suspense," Dani Pettrey's novels have sold more than 300,000 copies. Dani combines the page-turning adrenaline of a thriller with the chemistry and...

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Book Review: Fierce Hearted

From the Back:

"Brilliant. Stunning. Winsome. I didn't want it to end!"--Ann Voskamp, New York Timesbestselling author of The Broken Way and One Thousand Gifts


Every day we struggle to find more freedom, joy, and purpose. What if the solution isn't trying harder or being better but embracing the fiercehearted woman already inside us? A fiercehearted woman looks life in the face and says, "You can't beat me." She lives fully and loves bravely. She never gives in, never gives up, and never lets go. She dares to be who she is--imperfect and beloved. 

In her most powerful and personal book yet, bestselling author, counselor, and life coach Holley Gerth empowers and encourages women not simply through "how to" but by life-changing, heart-freeing "me too." Join Holley on this journey to becoming a fiercehearted woman and discover what she did: the freedom and courage to embrace life, love, and faith to the fullest because your struggles can no longer hold you back.

My Reflections:

Holley Gerth's newest book "Fiercehearted" has a special place in my heart. This book came out perfectly timed when I needed to hear the words the most. I have to admit I feel like I am friends with Holly, that is of course far from the truth, but I have been a part of her online bible study, read her words eagerly and soaked in her honesty. Reading this book for me was like taking a deep breath and saying, "yes, you get it girlfriend!" You understand me! 

The writing is exactly like you would expect a good friend to write, it is brutally honest, intimate and encouraging. Holley does not pretend to be perfect, quite the opposite actually, a perfect pretender on the mend. I have also read "You're Already Amazing" and done the accompanying study I love it all. I am so embracing who I am flawed yet beautifully made perfectly broken, I love it!!

If you are searching for  freedom from the bondage that holds you back, pick this book up along with Holley Gerth's others and dive in head first, God has so much in store for you! You can also join Holley's facebook page, where she often has live bible study sessions like the one I did with her this last summer.

I look forward to reading more form this author in the future. Thank you for being authentic and real Holley Gerth!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc

Holley Gerth can often be found at a corner table in a coffee shop with a hot latte and her banged-up, beloved laptop. She's the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of You're Already Amazing and several other books, as well as a counselor and life coach. Until you can join Holley for your favorite coffee or tea, she'd love for you to hang out with her at www.holleygerth.com.

Holley Gerth

Holley Gerth is a Wall Street Journal bestselling author, certified life coach, and speaker. She loves connecting with the hearts of women through her popular blog and books like You're Already Amazing. She's also cofounder of (in)courage and a...

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Book Review: Grace, Hope and Love

Book Description

Grace, Hope, and Love is an inspirational weekly devotional that will encourage and instruct your heart in the ways of the Lord. Fifty-one Southern Baptist pastors and ministry leaders wrote these wise and insightful daily devotions on the timeless topics of the grace, hope, and love God offers His children. Reflect on each daily entry with Scripture passages, a devotion, and a prayer.

The eighth annual MyDaily® devotional, compiled by Johnny Hunt, will be an excellent addition to your daily quiet time as you seek to draw near to the Lord. The unique viewpoints of 51 respected church leaders, including Dr. James Merritt, Dr. Ronnie Floyd, Dr. Grant Ethridge, Dr. Don Wilton, Dr. Ted Traylor, and Dr. Michael Cloer, offer you deep wisdom and insight into the heart of God toward His children.

Designed with an attractive, luxury package, Grace, Hope, and Love will be a beautiful gift as well as a top choice for those looking for a biblically solid and practical yearlong devotional.

My Reflections:

 Upon receiving this devotional I was immediately overjoyed! 
The presentation in its self is luxurious. The soft blue leather-like material feels like you are holding a treasure, and indeed you are! 

Inside the cover of this beautiful book holds soothing, loving and encouraging devotionals for every day of the year. I so enjoyed reading through (not daily as I had to review the book in its entirety, in less than a month :) So much wisdom imparted in these pages. I looked forward to my time within these pages, as it truly felt like a special time with mentors.

Written by fifty-two men of God you get a broad and varied bible study, as each writer has a slightly different flavor that he brings to your devotion time. 
I always enjoy when devotions add a little sample prayer at the bottom, it is a nice way to start off your quiet prayer time with God. I think it would be fantastic to journal alongside with this study. While there is no room included in this text, I highly recommend buying a notebook to jot down your reflections and prayers.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to spend more time in the word and growing closer to our God. I think it would make a magnificent gift, it is so beautiful!

I received this book free of charge from the Book Look Bloggers program, thank you Book Look!

Book Review: All Saints

The True Story Behind the Powerful Film ALL SAINTS

Newly ordained, Michael Spurlock's first assignment is to pastor All Saints, a struggling church with twenty-five devoted members and a mortgage well beyond its means. The best option may be to close the church rather than watch it wither any further. But when All Saints hesitantly risks welcoming a community of Karen refugees from Burma--former farmers scrambling for a fresh start in America--Michael feels they may be called to an improbable new mission.

Michael must choose between closing the church and selling the property--or listening to a still, small voice challenging the people of All Saints to risk it all and provide much-needed hope to their new community. Together, they risk everything to plant seeds for a future that might just save them all.

Discover the true story that inspired the film while also diving deeper into the background of the Karen people, the church, and how a community of believers rally to reach out to those in need, yet receive far more than they dared imagine.

The Reverend Michael Spurlock served All Saints Episcopal Church in Smyrna, Tennessee, for three years. He is currently on the clergy staff at Saint Thomas Church Fifth Avenue in New York City. Michael, his wife, Aimee, and their two children live in New York City.

Award-winning author and investigative journalist Jeanette Windle has lived in six countries, authored nineteen books, and mentors writers on five continents. To learn more, visit her at www.jeanettewindle.com.

My Reflections:

All Saints is based on a true story, that will grab your heart and stir your soul. Within the first chapter, I was drawn into a story of faith and integrity. 

Imagine your very first posting out of seminary is a church that seems beyond saving. That is exactly what Reverend Spurlock was faced with. All Saints having just had a major division in its congregation is also in financial ruins. Imagine how the good reverend felt walking into this.

Enter in refugees from Burma, and the story just gets going. The choices we make always affect the people around us, be it positive or negative. This story really highlights Gods ability to shine in dark places, and how one person's decision to trust makes all the difference.

Though this book is short in length a little over 200 pages, it is packed with encouragement and is sure to brighten your day. I would recommend "All Saints" to anyone who is looking for an inspirational read. It would also be an enriching novel for a book club.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc

Book Review: Dangerous Illusions

From The Back:

Trish Bailey is on overload trying to deal with a demanding job, an ailing mother, and a healing heart. When a series of unsettling memory lapses leads to a tragic death--and puts Trish under police scrutiny--her world is once again thrown into turmoil.

Detective Colin Flynn isn't certain what to think of the facts he uncovers during his investigation. Did Trish simply make a terrible mistake or is there more to the case than meets the eye? As he searches for answers, disturbing information begins to emerge--and if the forces at work are as evil as he suspects, the situation isn't just dangerous . . . it's deadly.

Bestselling and award-winning author Irene Hannon will capture your imagination with a mind-bending story that will have you doubling back to retrace your steps--and figure out what you missed!

My Reflections:

Dangerous Illusions is book one in Irene Hannon's newest series "Code of Honor." I was not at all surprised to have been swept away and literally lost in this novel, it is after all an Irene Hannon masterpiece! If book one is any indication of what is to come I'm sure this series will be another top-selling series by this talented author.

Trish Bailey is your all around good girl, yet tragedy has been a constant companion for more than three years. Trish teaches on the wrong side of town because that is where good teachers are needed. Although she comes from an upscale neighborhood and is thriving financially thanks in part to her wealthy parents who were equally as benevolent. Suffering the tragic loss of her husband and father in a horrific accident, Trish finds comfort in the safe routine of caring for her mother who suffered a stroke and teaching art to her students. Things turn from bad to worse quickly when a series of events finds Trish dealing with more losses and danger around every corner.

Detective Colin Flynn has been busy so long he feels a relationship may be out of reach with his busy career and long dangerous hours spent working, however when he is called to investigate a murder he must determine in the very beautiful Trish is guilty of accidental murder or is there something far sinister at play?

The twists and turns held within the pages of this novel kept me guessing, I seriously had no idea where the plot was going, it was refreshingly awesome!! I am completely hooked on this novel, so Irene Hannon if you are reading this, hurry, your fans are waiting with baited breath!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc

1. Irene Hannon

   Irene Hannon is the bestselling and award-winning author of more than fifty novels, including Buried Secrets, Thin Ice, and Tangled Webs,as well as the Heroes of Quantico, Guardians of Justice, and Private Justice series. In addition to many...

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2.