More Than A Bucket List

More Than A Bucket List by Toni Birdsong is a cute book that covers topics like Live with Strength, Watch Less TV, Rediscover what’s important, Live your dreams, Ignore your Critics, Live with Strength, Ask God First, and Be a Hero. Each section is a page or two, and it gives ideas of how to do the topic of the chapter. This book would be a great gift for people at any stage in their life, and I enjoyed reading the book. Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

His Love Endures Forever

Danielle thought she had found the love of her life in Beth Wiseman’s newest book, His Love Endures Forever (A Land of Canaan Novel). 18 year old Danielle Kane was in a relationship with a young Amish man named Matthew who spoke about leaving his world behind. She thought his reason behind leaving the Amish community was to create a family with her, but she soon learns his real plan is to leave his family and her behind. After becoming pregnant, and telling Matthew, she finds herself alone as Matthew moves to Colorado. When Levi, another Amish man who is her best friend, learns the news, he proposes to Danielle so she does not have to raise her young child on her own. Levi always imagined he would spend his life in the Amish community, but he feels led by God to marry Danielle, and he decides to leave his Amish lifestyle behind. I really enjoyed this book! I read Amish fiction often, but this book was original in that it focused on both the Amish and a young “English” girl. Although I haven’t read the other books in this series, I didn’t find it hard at all follow the story. The characters were very likeable, and I was definitely rooting for both Danielle and Levi. Material Connection: I received this book free from Booksneeze Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Cruel Harvest

Cruel Harvest has to be one of the saddest books I have ever read. This Memoir is written by Fran Elizabeth Grubb and it looks at the difficult life she experienced as well as her attempts to reconnect with her siblings and deal with her past. Fran’s father abused his children at every opportunity. They never had enough to eat, were forced to work in cotton fields, and experienced sexual, physical, and verbal abuse. As soon as the children and his wife would escape his abuse, he would find a way to reconnect with the children and convince others he only had their best interest in mind. I found it very difficult to read this book, since I could not imagine someone living a life like Fran. I was rooting for her to get away from her father, and I liked reading about her in her later phase of life as she reconnected with her siblings. It was amazing to hear she was not a bitter person, rather she seemed to move on with her life and forgive those who hurt her. This shows a great example that no matter what we go through, forgiveness is an important part of moving forward. Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Booksneeze Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Hope Springs

Hope Springs by Kim Cash Tate tells the story of 3 cousins in the Saunders family who travel to their grandmother’s home to spend Christmas together but end up staying longer and learning about themselves and solving some of their problems. Janelle Evans’ husband died a few years earlier, and she finds it hard to go back to the pace they spent so much time together. Stephanie London lives in St. Louis with her husband and is nominated by her father as the one to represent the family at this holiday. Libby seems to be searching for something in her life, and she is unable to commit to a relationship. When these cousins reunite and learn their Grandmother Geri is sick, they decide to move in with her to help take care of the home and take her to doctor appointments. This book looked at more than just family secrets. It also looked at the racial divide that still may exist in some areas. I liked the overall idea of the book and the focus on the importance of family. I also liked how each of these characters were so different from one another. Even though they were cousins, and were raised in similar families, they ended up completely different from one another. I liked this book, but I felt like I was very confused with all of the characters. There were cousins, aunts and uncles, neighbors, random family friends, and grandchildren. I was unable to remember all of the characters connections to one another until I was basically finished the book. I think some of the characters could have been removed and the book would still have relayed the same meaning. Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com [...] book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 [...] : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Swipe

Swipe, written by Evan Angler, follows the life of Logan as he nears his 13th birthday at some point in the future. Upon reaching the age of 13, each child is given a mark which enables them to take part in society. They can get a job, buy food, ride a hoverstick, and anything else you can think of. Although Logan is excited to get his mark, he is also nervous due to the children who have not had good results after their mark surgery. Although it will be denied by the government, there are those people who never return after their surgery. Add to the fear of the surgery, the fact that Logan feels as if he is being followed and someone is spying on him. As he begins to investigate those who are watching his every move, he meets a new friend Erin whose father has access to top-secret materials and facts which Erin shares with Logan. I really liked this book, and I read it while thinking about the book of Revelation and the Mark of the Beast which will be required as per Revelation. I think this would be best for middle-school age kids who are interested in reading sci-fi type books, and it may also help them become interested in learning more about the end times. Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

The Accidental Bride

The Accidental Bride is a book written by Denise Hunter in the Big Sky Romance Series. I have read some books by Denise Hunter in the past, and I was very excited to have the opportunity to read the most recent of her books. Shay Brandenberger and Travis McCoy, high school sweethearts, have agreed to take part in their Founders’ Day wedding reenactment in the town of Moose Creek, Montana. Little do they know, their good deeds end up changing their lives as the acting is, in actuality, a real marriage. In order to keep their lives running smoothly, they agree to stay married for six months in exchange for Travis helping her in running her ranch. As one could imagine, romance and troubles ensue.

I enjoyed this book as I do all those written by Denise Hunter. I really found myself caring about her characters, and I was rooting for both Shay and Travis. Although the accidental marriage seemed a little far-fetched, it was still a cute idea to see what can happen when two people find themselves in a situation they could have never imagined. The romance was fun to read about, and I really felt like there was real chemistry between Shay and Travis. I liked this romantic, quick-read, and I will be recommending it to my friends and family.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Cliques, Hicks, and Ugly Sticks (The Confessions of April Grace)

Cliques, Hicks, and Ugly Sticks (The Confessions of April Grace) is a book by KD McCrite which I recently had the opportunity to read through the Thomas Nelson Booksneeze Blog Program. Although I am older than the reading demographic for this book, I still found myself enjoying the book set in 1984. I found myself understanding the 80s references0, but I don’t know if teenagers who are reading this book will understand these same references.

The setting is just a minor point of the book, as it did look at the universal problems young teens go through, no matter the generation. School, friends, and family are all the topics looked at in this book. Throughout the story, the main character April Grace Reilly remains true to herself, and I found her to be a great role model for those who read this book.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

The Lucado Inspirational Reader

Recently I read Max Lucado: The Lucado Inspirational Reader, Hope and Encouragement for Your Everyday Life. This book contains everything from short quotes to short stories. The book is broken into various chapters which look at the topics of Creation, Faith, Family, Forgiveness, Peace, Purpose, Worship, Second Chances, Grace, Heaven, and various others. I really liked how the book contained quotes from his other books along with Bible verses. Also, the format made it easy to find out more information on a particular topic. This isn’t the type of book you want to sit down and read in a traditional way since it is over 400 pages long, but it’s a great book to read a few pages at a time or to have as a “coffee table” book. This would also be a great book to give to friends and family as a Christmas gift.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements

Heaven is for Real for Kids

Heaven is for Real for Kids tells the story of Colton Burpo, who at 4 years old went to Heaven during a surgery. Colton miraculously recovered, and when he talked to his family after the surgery he told them of the things he saw in Heaven, which would have been impossible for him to know unless he did, in fact, go to Heaven. Through his story, Colton shows other young children that there is such a place as Heaven that they too can look forward to going to one day. The book was written in a way that young children can understand, yet it’s not scary as to make them nervous about spending time in hospitals. Rather, it gives children hope about all of the things they will see and the emotions they will experience when they are in heaven, or when they are trying to understand how other young children can be taken to heaven.

The pictures in this book were also cute, and I think young children who cannot yet read will enjoy looking at the photos of what Colton remembers Heaven looking like. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and am sure all young children will be impressed by not only the photos, but also the story of what happened to Colton.

I received a copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through their Booksneeze program. I was not required to write a positive review.

Just In Case You Ever Wonder

Just In Case You Ever Wonder is a cute children's book written by Max Lucado and Illustrated by Toni Goffe which looks at how much God loves everyone. The book is written for young children, probably in the age range of 2nd-3rd grade. The book talks about how every part of us was created by God in a perfect way. It also shows how God placed children with a loving family to take care of them and teach them more about Jesus' love.

I really thought this book was cute, and I can't wait to pass it on to one of my young nieces. I am sure they will love the pictures as the drawings range from winter pictures with small animals hidden in the background to summertime walks. The focus of the book being on God's love is a great thing for young children to read about, and have shared with them by their parents.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the Booksneeze book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Surprised by Oxford

Surprised by Oxford is a Memoir written by Canadian Carolyn Weber which looks at her life during her graduate degree studies at Oxford University’s Balliol College. As she attends Oxford she begins to question many things in her life, and she begins on her quest to find answer to some of her questions about life.

I found this book a little long, and it took me longer to read than most books. I really liked learning about her studies at Oxford and also the relationship with an American student while at Oxford. I was not the biggest fan of her poetry used throughout the book, but that is definitely just to the fact that I don’t enjoy poetry.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the Booksneeze book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Night Night Blessings

Night Night Blessings is a cute children’s book written by Amy Parker and illustrated by Marijan Ramljak. The book looks at all of the things God has given children for them to be happy about. Pets, toys, family, food, and starts are all mentioned in the book as things to thank God for.

I thought this book was really cute, and I look forward to sharing it with a friend who is soon to be a new mother. The hard cover and hard pages is perfect for a young child, as sometimes I am afraid to give books with paper pages to children since they tend to be harder on books.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the Booksneeze book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Thunder Dog

With the 10th anniversary of 9/11, I was eager to read “Thunder Dog: The True Story of a Blind Man, His Guide Dog, & the Triumph of Trust at Ground Zero” by Michael Hingson and Suzy Flory. The book tells the account of Michael Hingson, who was on the 78th floor when the World Trade Center was attacked. The book looks at the reasons behind Michael’s blindness, along with being raised with a seeing family.

As an animal lover, I found myself particularly interested in this book. I liked seeing how the dog, Roselle, was committed to saving the life of Michael Hingson, and I liked learning about Michael’s story and his determination to navigate over 1,000 stairs to escape the burning building. I read this book in the span of a few days, and I found myself unable to put the book down. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to sharing it with family members to enjoy.

* Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

The Quotable Rogue

The Quotable Rogue: The Ideals of Sarah Palin In Her Own Words was edited by Matt Lewis, and the book is just what the title states: quotes and topics discussed by Sarah Palin. The book looks at quotes by Sarah Palin from interviews, newspaper, and other places. The topics were varied and included Abortion, Living in Alaska, Barak Obama, Civil Rights, Gun Control, Health Care, John McCain, the Media, the GOP, Running for Office, the Tea Party, Tina Fey, and Washington.

I liked reading this book and getting the opportunity to review some of the topics which are of interest in America today. I enjoyed this book because I liked the format that I could look at a particular issue and see what her thoughts were on the topic. Although this might not be a book someone would want to read in one sitting, it is an interesting read.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Jesus, My Father, the CIA, and Me

Since most things related to topics like the CIA interest me, I was extremely excited to have the chance to read Jesus, My Father, the CIA, and Me written by Ian Cron. Ian talks about his childhood, and how growing up with an alcoholic, often absent, father affected his life. Throughout the book, Ian told different stories which focused on his childhood, teenage years, and finding his wife.

I liked the honesty Ian wrote with. He didn’t seem to sugarcoat some of the things he did in his life, such as the troubles he had with alcohol, drug use, and overall rebellion in his life. I also liked how he was able to break free from his past mistakes, and he ended up being a caring father. The book had humor throughout the book, and I was able to read this book in the span of a few days. I would recommend this book to others.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Nick of Time

I was excited to read Nick of Time: A Bug Man Novel, by Tim Downs, and I liked the overall idea of the book, but I have some complaints about the main character, Nick Polchak. Throughout the book, Nick is attempting to solve a mysterious murder before his wedding, which is only a few days away. What follows is a mystery that Nick becomes so wrapped up in, he nearly forgets about him wedding. There were some twists and turns that led to the final conclusion, and I can honestly say I did not forsee what would be the conclusion to the book.

Although I liked the idea behind the book, I did not like the character of Nick AT ALL! He seemed to be very condescending and rude to others. It’s one thing to become completely absorbed with solving a mystery, but it’s an entirely different matter to be rude to those in positions of authority. In addition to Nick’s attitude, his fiancée seemed to have the same problems with authority. Neither of these characters had social skills, and I didn’t find myself rooting for them as I read the book. I recognize that this difficulty with authority might be what others find interesting in the book, but it didn’t make me more interested in the book.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

The Hidden Magic of Walt Disney World

As soon as I heard the title, The Hidden Magic of Walt Disney World: Over 600 Secrets of the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and American Kingdom, I knew I would love the book written by Susan Veness and I was not disappointed.

The book is broken up into four sections which focus on the separate parks in Walt Disney World. Within each section, it is broken into smaller sections within the park. Rather than tips for a good trip, the book focuses on small, unknown facts and hidden sights that guests may never have noticed. As I read through the book, I learned things I had never noticed before during my 10 + trips to Walt Disney World in Florida.

This book was interesting to me, since I have enjoyed trips to Disney World in the past. Some of the things I found most interesting were that the water in the Lagoon at Epcot is made of water from other countries and the fact that buildings were all made to be under 200 feet high so no beacons would be required for planes. I think this book would make a great gift for a first-time visitor to Disney World or someone who doesn’t think they will enjoy their trip because they have “seen it all before.” I know I really enjoyed reading it, and I will be looking at Walt Disney World more closely the next time I visit.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Unsinkable

I remember hearing of Abby Sunderland, a 16 year-old who was attempting to become the youngest individual to sail a solo trip around the world in 2010, as I am sure did many individuals who watched the news during that time. At the time of hearing about her solo-trip and her boat being de-masted in the Indian Ocean, I, like many others, looked at this as a media stunt orchestrated by her father as a way for their family to gain notoriety. I think the book changed my mind a little on the matter, but, as other reviewers have stated, I don't know if her family allowing her to make this trip at such a young age was the wisest thing to do.

The book was an extremely easy read, and I enjoyed the overall theme of perseverance in the book. I think it will show younger people that hard work is still rewarding, and it will give them motivation to go after their dreams and pursue their goals in life. Also, it gives young people a real role model to look up to...someone who is famous for more than just being famous.

I received a copy of this book free from the publisher, Thomas Nelson, through the BookSneeze review bloggers program for the purpose of completing this review. BookSneeze does not require positive reviews; all opinions expressed in this review are my own.

How to be God's Little Princess

How to Be God’s Little Princess by Sheila Walsh gives Royal Tips for Manners, Etiquette, and True Beauty for young girls. The first thing I noticed upon receiving the book was the cute pink and purple cover with a tiara on the front. This book was clearly made with a young girl in mind, and I can’t wait to give this book to one of my younger relatives to enjoy!

The book is divided into chapters focusing on How to dress like a princess, How to wear a tiara (and other princess necessities), How a princess perfects her poise, How to be friends princess style, How to dine with royal success, How to sparkle like a princess, How to have a rockin’ royal party, How to be media wise, How to be a perfectly polite princess, How to be a princess at home, How a princess sports a good attitude, How a princess knows she needs an inner beauty makeover. Throughout the chapters there are various quizzes, projects, and sections for royal notes. Each chapter begins with a short paragraph that indicates how the chapter relates to God’s desires. There is also a Bible verse that relates to the chapter.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising

Seek Me With All Your Heart

Seek Me with All Your Heart, the first book in the Land of Canaan Novel, written by Beth Wiseman looks at Emily Detweiler and her family as they move from Ohio to Canaan, Colorado. In addition to the Detweiler family, the family of David Stoltzfus moves to Colorado from their home in Pennsylvania. Throughout this move, David faces health difficulties and Emily must face her past. Although they would both rather ignore their pasts, they begin to heal by leaning on one another. Through facing these difficulties, David and Emily find themselves drawn to one another and beginning to form a relationship.

I really enjoyed this book and liked the fact that it wasn’t a typical Amish story, in that it wasn’t based in Pennsylvania and it delved into the sensitive topic of rape and the way different people and families deal with difficulties in their lives. I liked learning about all of the different characters and cannot wait to read the future books in the Land of Canaan Series.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising