The Wonder of Creation by Louie Giglio Review (Momentum Influencer Network).

 Disclaimer: This post contains Amazon Affiliate Links. 

Many thanks to HarperCollins Christian Publishing for providing this product/product information for review. Opinions are 100% my own. I did receive the product in exchange for this review and post.

The wonder of creation

I read the Wonder of Creation, by Louie Giglio, in exchange for honest review from the Momentum Influencer Network. The book is a children's devotional book, with over 100 devotionals. I received a hardback copy. 

The book features illustrations and photography. Each devotional also features a scientific fact or an activity for kids to explore their faith; a short bible verse, and a prayer. The book also can be incorporated into a homeschool STEM curriculum or bedtime reading. The scientific facts include info about space, Earth, animals, and people. Giglio does provide, on page 5, the page numbers for each of the facts. 

I wanted this to be able to spread the love of God to my kids. With Kalen especially, books needs a lot of pictures with minimal words. He likes pointing to the pics and identifying what's in the pic, either saying the actual word or asking, "What's that?". With Brad, things also need to be short and simple. 

The book is easy to read. It also comes with a built-in ribbon bookmark. 

The book is available in Kindle, Audiobook, and Hardback format.

God with Us: A journey home review (Momentum Influencer Network)

Disclaimer: This post contains Amazon Affiliate Links. 

I read God with Us, a journey home, by Jeremy Pierre, in exchange for honest review from the Momentum Influencer Network. I received a paperback copy. 

The book is also available in Kindle and Audible versions on Amazon. 

The book is a children's book, which teaches kids, Earth is not our home, Heaven is. The story is told from the perspective of two, unnamed, angels. The book chose not to give the angels names because the main character of the story--the book, and in real life, is Jesus. 

The book is written in a poem, like, narrative format. Each chapter focuses on a different bible story, from Genesis to Revelation. The chapters are quick reads, great for kids, who may not have the best attention spans, like my kids. 

Kalen loves books, with few words and a lot of pictures. He likes calling out things in the pictures. I can read a chapter and show him the pics before he goes back to Youtubing a kitchen skit. I can teach him about God, for those few moments.

You can purchase the book, using the link above. The book is prime-eligible. 

The Loneliness Solution Review (Flyby Blog Promotions)

Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by FlyBy Blog Promotions. I received a free book, in exchange for honest review. This post also contains Amazon Affiliate Links. 

 I received The Loneliness Solution by Jack Eason, in exchange for honest review from FlyBy Blog Promotions. The book is available in kindle, paperback, and audio book format. The book is written from a Christian perspective. The book discusses how we can find "meaningful connection in a disconnected world. 

I wanted to read the book because I struggle with anxiety, loneliness, and depression, especially this year.  I am overwhelmed. Corona has definitely changed the world and I am simply done with everything, including kids most days. I am just tired and need a break from everyone and everything, but it will take a miracle. The last few days has been rough. I haven't posted as much on social media nor checked my email, at all. I just wanted to hide under the covers and escape from life, yet I can't do that. Oldest kid won't let me with his behavioral issues. 

One of the first things, which stood out was the section on loneliness kills. Lonely people eat and  drink more. I have definitely drunk more since March than I did in the past 10 years.  I am at my highest weight in life. I thought being 225 as a teenager was bad but I weigh more than that at 40 years old. Lonely people also die sooner. than people, who have more social relationships. 

Another section, which stood out, is the section on things, which get in the way of relationships, such as busyness and independence. I definitely fall into the trap of the delusion of self-sufficiency. I don't want to need other people, but unfortunately, I need other people. I hate asking for help, yet when I ask for help, I get hardly no responses. I asked for help fixing my dryer, but so far nos, even by professionals, who I would be paying. 

I definitely like to thank Rodney and Ms Reen for their help this year. My mother and niece as well, along with Mr. Daniel and Mrs. Mary Lynn, and The Badens. 

I been asking for additional help for my oldest for most of this year. I have heard a lot of No's because he has severe autism. This doesn't give me much hope for my youngest, if his behavior gets worse when he gets older because he also has severe autism. The book also discussed the disconnection of family. I have felt disconnected from my own kids, at times, during this year. 

The book has a lot of good information. If you are interested in the book, click on the link above. The book , once again, is available in paper back, kindle, and audio book format. 

Take back your life by Levi Lusko Book Review (FlyBy Blog Promotions)

Disclaimer: This post contains Amazon Affiliate Links.

I read Take Back Your Life by Levi Lusko, in exchange for honest review from FlyBy Blog Promotions. I received a hardback book. 

The book is a 40 day devotional/journal, which helps you think right, so you can live right.

My life sucks right now. The crisis and quarantining has not helped. I am drained physically, mentally, and spiritually. I dread waking up and I dread going to bed because I know what's waiting and I hate it (kid's morning behavior issues). 

I have learned a few new skills, such as I attempted to make cheese, but I cant seem to help my oldest calm down. I wanted to read this book to at least help my spiritual life improve, while everything else is falling apart. 

Book Review

One of the first things, which stood out is when the author said looks can be deceiving. We can be looking at something, but not see all, that is there. We can not trust what we see with the naked eye because there are unseen things in the background. 

"When you see the invisible, you can see the impossible"

Using just the seen to make decisions is not enough because there are blind spots.  The unseen spiritual realm is forever. We need to stop walking around oblivious to things going on in the background, such as the battle for our hearts (and our internal battle)and where we will spend eternity (We all will live forever, but where: Heaven or Hell). Lusko says we need to look at people and things through the lens of faith to see if this or that is for your good. Is this or that or them part of God's plan for your life. The author says we have to take back our lives from what's going on in the invisible realm. 

Another part of the book, which stood out is that no matter, what we are going through, we are loved. called. chosen. equipped. I may not feel that way when repairing another hole, my oldest put in the wall or picking up a bag full of toys, again, the youngest threw, but God still says we are loved, called, chosen, and equipped (and that' s where my overthinking takes place. What am I equipped to do? What is my godly purpose? Is it more than cleaning, cooking, parenting, and fixing things, the kids broke? My life is boring, repetitive, redundant, frustrating, but yet there is a godly purpose, somewhere in this mess.) Day 3 says despite how I feel about myself and my life, We were made in the image of God; we have autonomy; we are immortal; we were expensive because Jesus paid the ultimate price for our souls. I definitely need this book right now. I havent had it long. A kid tore a few pages out, but I was able to find them and put them back in the book, but I am loving what I am reading. 

At the end of each chapter, there is a prayer and questions to think about. 

The book is available in Kindle; Audio book; hardback; and audio CD. The book is prime-eligible. 

Free Kids 4-day PDF Devotional

Author Bio:

Levi Lusko is the founder and lead pastor of Fresh Life Church, located in Montana, Wyoming, Oregon, and Utah. He is the bestselling author of Through the Eyes of a Lion, Swipe Right, and I Declare War. Levi also travels the world speaking about Jesus. He and his wife, Jennie, have one son, Lennox, and four daughters: Alivia, Daisy, Clover, and Lenya, who is in heaven.

Moving Beyond Anxiety by David Chadwick Book Review (Flyby Blog Promotions)

Disclaimer: This post contains Amazon Affiliate Links.



I read Moving Beyond Anxiety by David Chadwick, in exchange for honest review for FlyBy Blog Promotions. I received a pdf and a paperback copy of the book. The book is written from a biblical perspective. Part 1 focuses on identifying anxiety, while Part 2 focuses on overcoming anxiety.

Part 1: Identifying Anxiety

I wanted to read this book because I have tons of fears and anxieties. Will my oldest son's behavior get us evicted from another place? Will my youngest die in his sleep from his seizures or sleep apnea or long QT syndrome? If I walk the kids to the store or laundry room, will they walk off or have a public meltdown? If yes, I rather not take them, at all, than risk it. If I die, what will happen to my kids? Will Kalen accidentally cause an infection to his self because he likes to self-injure by scratching? I had his heart monitor removed because it was broke and Kalen was scratching around the monitor.

I worry about my health. I have headaches, back pain, and joint pain. I barely had any sleep since March because my oldest has been waking up, mostly at 4/5 am to hit walls, doors, and the ceiling. For me, I listen to music, clean, walk outside for a second to breath to try to stay calm and focused on rough days. I also pray but many times, fear my prayers are not listened to or won't be answered. After all, it's been three months since Brad started banging walls and doors at 3 am and it still won't stop.

In the Chadwick provides 12 strategies to help with anxieties. One of the first things, which stood out was Chadwick defined anxiety and fear.

"Anxiety is thinking something bad might happen to you", while "Fear is the belief something bad will happen to you". Chadwick says that if we win the battle over our thoughts, then we will win the battle over anxiety. Bad thoughts lead bad feelings, which lead to bad behaviors. We have to renew our minds daily.

Anxiety and fear also can affect your prayer life and your relationship with God. The devil also has a part in worry, anxiety, and fear by implanting thoughts in your head, which increases anxiety; tempts you to engage in destructive behaviors; and affects your relationship with God. God wants our lives to be filled with peace and joy, which is something I definitely need more of. A quiet, peaceful household, even with two children, with special needs.

The book also focuses on the causes of anxiety. Rapid change, loneliness, failure, rejection, and fear of tomorrow are the ones, which hit home, to me. Just look at the past few months. Kids went from going out of school for Spring Break to being out for the rest of the year. Church was closed and went completely virtual. Their psychiatrist visits also went virtual. Clinic also implemented curbside pharmacy plus temperature checks. 

Both kids behaviors changed quick, which increased fear, anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Both of their medications have been adjusted, a few times to see if it helps. Toss in a outpatient surgery and a few visits for routine doctor visits and lab work.

I lost my breaks, during the day, along with sleep. I had to outsource laundry to my niece because they have elopement and other behavioral issues when going out in public. I had to learn to rely on more and accept help from others. We are all in this together. I am definitely grateful for Ms. Reen, Ms. Kim, Ms. MaryLynn, Hope for Three, Houston's First Baptist, during this time.

Part 2: Overcoming anxiety. 

To overcome anxiety, some of the solutions include focusing on faith; praying; singing; and getting Godly teammates. I have definitely prayed, begged, and pleaded during these last, few months, hoping any of my prayers would get answered. You have to embrace the little victories because God answers prayers in his time and not mine, which also causes anxiety. How long Lord, how long? (recorded a video of me, starting with that line, because I had enough of no sleep; enough of kids, staying at home, doing nothing but eating and running through data on my phone; enough of Brad waking up to hit the walls and doors; enough of broken furniture; enough of Kalen throwing toys and dishes around the home; enough of being hit, pushed, spit on, climbed on and over; enough of waiting on things to go right. not sure if I want to publish it or not).

I created a playlist on Amazon called Survival to help calm me down. It does bring some tears though. You toss enough Casting Crowns, Steven Curtis Chapman, Kirk Franklin, Smokie Norful, and CeCe Winans on a playlist, tears will come, especially when you are going through something.

"There is a hope, there is peace, that makes this life complete. For every man, woman, boy, and girl, looking for Heaven, in the real world" Steven Curtis Chapman. Heaven in the Real World

"I just want to get away from here. I just want fly away from what I see. Every time we fail, it falls on you, Another reason for the world, to not believe. See it don't feel right when we hurt and lie. and we judge inside because love's being erased. You can try and hide. No Sleep Tonight" Kirk Franklin. No Sleep Tonight. Don't get me started on the power of Stained Glass Masquerade by Casting Crowns.

Finally,have a few godly teammates to motivate and encourage you. Teammates, who will pray for you and bring positivity to your life.

The book is available in Kindle, Paperback, and Audio formats. The book is prime-eligible.

Joel Ohman Other Bodies Book Review (FlyBy Blog Promotions)

Disclaimer: This post contains Amazon affiliate links.



I read Other Bodies, in exchange for honest review from FlyBy Blog Promotions. The book was written by Joel Ohman. The book is a dystopian, YA book, to help "change people's minds about abortion."

The book, starts out well. You see Hattie, walking through the streets, going through a personal crisis. The author is descriptive when describing the sky, voices heard, and the crazy, who tries to slow her down. I felt a lot of tension in that scene because you didn't know if he was going to attack her. I was hooked in that scene.


You can purchase the book, using the link above. The book is available in kindle and paperback format. The book is also available on iBooks and Barnes and Noble.

I could use a nap and a million dollars book review (Kregel Blog Tours)

Disclaimer: This post contains Amazon Affiliate Links.




I read I could Use a Nap and a Million Dollars by Jessie Clemence, in exchange for honest review from Kregel Blog Tours. I received a paperback book . The book is Christian based. The subtitle is Biblical Alternatives for stressed out living.

I wanted to read the book because I am stressed out, especially in the past month. This month alone, Brad had an allergic reaction to accidently taking Kalen's medications. Kalen and I had a bad cold. My appendix burst. I missed Brad's ARD/IEP meeting for extended school year (ESY) because of the surgery. Luckily, the diagnostician already knew my wishes and held the meeting without me.  My laptop decided to die, while laying on my bed for two days, turned off. Kalen also had tonsil and adenoid surgery to help with his sleep apnea. I had an unpleasant OB/GYN visit. Not to mention, the joys of just raising specail needs kids. Every day is an adventure in not running away to a Caribbean island, drinking  a long island iced tea.

I feel my kids run the show and I am slowly losing control of everything, including my mind.

This is why we eat too much chocolate and cry in the shower. This is why we need a nap and a million dollars to fall out of the sky. We've had enough. Life is just too much. p. 13

The book teaches us how to rely on God even when we are stressed out. I loved when the author discussed cleaning in chapter 2. Her Ikea bowls were always missing and she hated looking for them. In my house, I have the same issue. I spend a lot of time hunting down spoons, bowls, and other kitchen utensils. Some of these was already in limited supply. I only own 4 bowls. Don't need much. I live with 3 people and rarely have company over. If for some reason, I do, I got 4 plates. I don't understand why my oldest can't bring utensils back into the kitchen after he uses them. He also has a bad habit of tossing his dirty diapers anywhere, when there are multiple trash bags throughout the house. Trying to clean the front room is stressful. I found old chicken bones behind my rubbermaids the other day. Not fun.

Trying to clean and unclutter my house causes many stress filled days, but who says my house has to be perfectly clean? It would be nice but it may not happen. The author said the bible does not base our value on how clean our houses are. The bible focuses on the condition of our heart.

What got me (because I skipped ahead to the end of the book) was the conclusion. The author discussed how two of her friends adopted special needs kids. I understand special needs parenting well. You have to deal with the normal things like paying bills, cooking, cleaning, but also dealing with the special needs side. The constant doctor appointments; the outright refusal to take medications; the sleep meds not working; and the meltdowns. One meltdown this week lead me to a bitten, bruised arm because he did not want to go to his monthly behavior appointment for his meds.

The book also includes questions, a focus, and a prayer at the end of chapters.

You can purchase the book in kindle and paperback format. The book is prime-eligible.

Twofer Murder Review (iRead Book Tours)

Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by iRead Blog Tours. This post contains Amazon Affiliate Links.




I read TwoFer Murder, in exchange for honest review from iRead Blog Tours. I received the audible version of the book. The book was written by Lauren Carr.

Audiobook Details:



Book Title: Twofer Murder by Lauren Carr

Narrated by: Anita Alger / Mike Alger

Length: 13 hours 20 mins

Genre: Mystery

Publisher: Acorn Book Services

Release date: Jan 2018

Available for review in: audiobook (Audible code)

Tour dates: Feb 12 to 23, 2018

Content Rating: PG + M (Please be aware that TWOFER MURDER is a murder mystery. There are depictions of murder and some violence--though easy on the gore contents. No f-words but there may be some mild profanity, and mild religious expletives such as "damn", "hell" and "Oh God!". Some depictions of brief sexual content (kissing).



Book Description:

Twofer murder? What’s a twofer murder?

Twofer Murder is a treat for fans of best-selling author Lauren Carr’s fast-paced mysteries! Lauren’s latest novel contains the main characters from her three successful series: Mac Faraday, Lovers in Crime, and Thorny Rose mysteries. The guys go away for a fishing weekend only to get caught up in the murder of a journalist investigating fraud at a timber company. Meanwhile, the ladies are spending the weekend in the presidential suite at a posh resort where Jessica Faraday is to accept a lifetime achievement award for her late grandmother at a murder mystery writers conference. But before they have time to get their facials, they get wrapped up in their own real mystery when an up and coming author ends up dead!

Lauren Carr’s Twofer Murder is a 2-for-1—making it a must-read for any mystery fan!
To read more reviews, please visit Lauren Carr's page on iRead Book Tours.

About the Author:

Lauren Carr is the international best-selling author of the Mac Faraday, Lovers in Crime, and Thorny Rose Mysteries—over twenty titles across three fast-paced mystery series filled with twists and turns!

Book reviewers and readers alike rave about how Lauren Carr’s seamlessly crosses genres to include mystery, suspense, romance, and humor.

Lauren is a popular speaker who has made appearances at schools, youth groups, and on author panels at conventions. She lives with her husband, and three dogs on a mountain in Harpers Ferry, WV.




. 

Connect with the author: Website ~ Twitter ~ Facebook ~ Instagram

My Review:

I was lost when I first started listening to the book. Lots of characters, drama, and a murder, but it drew me in eventually. A bunch of women gathered at a murder mysteries writers conference to celebrate an award for one of their grandmothers. While the men are on a fishing trip and someone ends up dead. There is a change in narrators when it switches over from the mens' point of view to the womens.' I love the narrator's Southern voice of one of the characters. 

I would listen to the book when you have a moment of peace. The book has a lot of characters. I got lost because I was cleaning my house when I was listening to the book. I may have to buy the book and follow along with the audio. What drew me in was the writer's conference. I also liked the scene where someone was on the plane to check in on a friend in another country, when the friend died before she arrived. I liked the concierge, Garth, I believe and how nothing surprises him. I also like how there is a storm arriving on weekend of the conference.

The book is available in Kindle,  Kindle Unlimited, Paperback, and Audible format.

Buy the Book:

Amazon

Audible
Add to Goodreads

Giveaway:

a Rafflecopter giveaway Ends March 3, 2018

Unsinkable Faith Review (Litfuse)

Disclaimer: This post contains Amazon Affiliate Links.





I read Unsinkable Faith, in exchange for honest review from Litfuse. The book was written by Tracie Miles. The book is Christian-based.

The book is about having unsinkable faith, no matter what you are going through. If we are down, we need to think positive, instead of letting our troubles take our peace and joy.

This is something, I seriously need to work on. I overthink.about my problems and concerns. I am a mostly negative thinker. I am a single parent of two, special needs kids. Let that sink in. My days are filled with doctor appointments, meltdowns, and struggles over food..

In the past few weeks, my oldest broke the tv and started sleeping back in the bedroom. My laptop died. The wifi has been lagging so I can't blog, listen to music, or watch a show without many pauses. Thank you Amazon on deck for saving me lol.

My youngest has to have his tonsils and adenoids removed to see if it helps his sleep apnea. His heart pauses are increasing. Hit after hit after hit. I need this book.

Miles said we have no control over our circumstances, but we can control our thoughts when we are going through something. We also need to trust God in everything. We don't have to sink. Miles said we don't sink when God is our anchor.

You can buy the book using the link above. The book is available in Kindle and paperback format. The book is prime eligible.

She's Got the Wrong Guy Review (Litfuse)

Disclaimer: This post contains Amazon Affililate Links.



I read She's Got the Wrong Guy, IWhy Smart Women Settle)in exchange for honest review from Litfuse. The book was written by Deepak Reju. The book is Christian-based. Reju discusses how dating is harder for single, intelligent, Christian women.

For me, I was impressed with the title. I have limited dating experiences. I never been big on dating and relationships. I started late in life dating. I focused on grades to achieve my goals to moving as far from Texas as possible, in order to have a life (ended up moving back in 2010. I  married my first boyfriend, even though I saw red flags. I was in college at the time (for the wrong reasons. not the right school for me), when I met him. We got married less than two years later after we married.

The next and last boyfriend, I had was in 2006. The relationship lasted a month or so. I met him, leaving work. He was going in to work and I was on my way to the bus stop to go home. What stood out about him was he was wearing a suit to go clean a stadium.

I just don't grasp the ins and outs of dating. I want to date. I want to be married again one day, but I want to do things the right way. From my limited dating experiences and my former promiscous life, I have seen many red flags, I don't want in my next relationship.

I have noticed not many men want to date a celibate woman, nor do many want to date the promiscuous woman. Many want the option of sex if I decide to enter into a relationship. Even with celibacy, everyone has a different definition. I have talked to "celibate" men, who still wanted the option of sexual activity without the penetration. Reju does a good job explaining how sex has become prevalent in today's society. Even Christians struggle with promiscuity and pornography.

Reju also discusses how women settle for men because they want marriage or motherhood. Women accept red flags to achieve goals. Women also stay in settled relationships, even when the relationship isn't working.  From dating non-believers to dating overly flirtatious men, women settle. Settling and ignoring red flags can affect your morals, values, and faith. When I was younger, I was taught co-habitation and premarital sex was wrong. I was raised these things was wrong, yet engaged in them many times. As I got older, I had to pay for the consequences of my actions, including a more jaded personality. I can sense a red flag approaching and try to shut it down quick. It's like I heard and seen this before, this is not anything new, go away.

The book is a good read.

You can purchase the book using the link above in Kindle and Paperback format.

Adunni Dares to Dream Book Review (Write Now Literary Book Tours)

Disclaimer: This post contains Amazon Affiliate Links.

I read Adunni Dares To Dream, in exchange for review from Write Now Literary Book Tours. The book was written by Taiwo I. Ajao and illustrated by Dr. Ajao. The book is the story of Dr. Ethel A. Adeloye.

Write Now Literary is pleased to announce Adunni Dares to Dream by Taiwo I Ajao, Virtual Book Tour, June 5-30, 2017.

Genre:

Historical Fiction, Kids, Youth

Author/Illustrator Bio

The Dr. Ajaos are a husband-wife, doctor-nurse team who have a joint passion for health

literacy, preventative healthcare, and education for at-risk groups in the Global setting.

Mrs. Taiwo I. Ajao, the Author, is a Registered Nurse with a Master’s in Public Health in Maternal and Child Health,while Dr. ‘Wale Ajao, the Illustrator, is an internationally-trained medical doctor with a Master's of Arts in Communications & Producing for Film and Video.

Together, The Dr. Ajaos intend to address health literacy via it’s most fundamental forms: using the arts of writing, entertainment, and communication to educate children and their parents. Adunni Dares to Dream is the beginning of a beautiful merger of not just a celebration of educational achievement, but also of Faith, Hope, Love and Miracles.

About the Book

Adunni Dares to Dream is the true tale of a poor African girl who just wanted to go to school.

Although she was a part of a very hardworking family, Adunni just could not have the finer things in life, like school, books, & literacy. In her culture, girls were just expected to look pretty, get married and have children. But Adunni wished for something more.

As Adunni dares to dream , she inspires many others to dream too, including a handsome young
man who couldn't stop dreaming about her! So Adunni has choices to make. Does she give in to her
society's expectations? Does she chose the status quo? What are Adunni's dreams and where do her
dreams take her?

Excerpt

Whenever Adunni brought up the idea of school, somehow Mama found a way to end it. Despite
the fact that she was illiterate, Mama was sharp, hardworking and very resourceful with money. Mama
had married young, as was common in the culture, and she started to bear children as a teenager. 

It was unfortunate, however, that she experienced the loss of many of those children during childbirth. Only Adunni and her sister had survived, and Adunni wondered often about what she could have done to save those who hadn't made it.

Adunni was tearful as she remembered how her mother had nearly died last year during childbirth. Was every girl expected to get married and have children, even if it killed her? Adunni didn’t want to be like other girls: she wanted to be great. 

Adunni believed that to be great,she must be smart and be able to read, and learn great things. 

My Review: 

First, the book is set in Africa. The book does not mention a specific country or region until chapter 4 (Nigeria). The book is also Christian-based.

The book starts with Adunni upset because her friend was able to go to school but she could not. In her country, parents had to pay for primary school. Adunni had to help her mother take care of her sister too so school wasn't a top option. She also had to help with the farm and sell goods at the market. 

Adunni wanted more out of life than marriage and having children. She saw her friends attend school each day in town and wanted to join them. I was elated when I read later on in the book about how her mother saved up for Adunni to go to school. Adunni used her education to read the bible to her family. The family continued to work to raise funds for secondary school for Adunni.

The book was a quick read for me. It was beautifully illustrated by Dr. Ajao. The book had its share of disappointments and sadness. I liked how Adunni wanted to focus on her education first, similar to how I was when I was younger. I messed up in college and it took years to finally go back and earn my degrees. I applaud Adunni for her dedication and efforts. The book was a good book over all.

Finally, the book has a glossary at the end with African terms used throughout the book. 

Links: 

Amazon Link for Reviews Only

Website

Tour hosted by Write Now Literary

Follow the tour here



































You can purchase the book using the link above. The book is available in paperback. The book is prime-eligible.

The Good Book Book Review (Litfuse)

Disclaimer: This post contains Amazon Affiliate Links.



I received The Good Book by Devin Spoo with a foreward by Kyle Idleman, in exchange for honest review from Litfuse. The book is a user-friendly guide to understanding each chapter of the bible.

In the introduction, the author discussed how the bible is hard to understand at times, even for advanced readers at times. I know I struggle with certain things in the bible, which is why I downloaded a few translations on both my Kindle and phone to better understand context.

The book has 40 chapters to help people better understand the bible's biggest ideas. The author does provide bible verses in the book.

For example, The author provides the first few verses of Genesis, which describes the first seven days. Then Chapter 1 starts off by focusing on how we are unique and created in God's image. We are priceless. We have value. The author says we don't need to know the exact date, we was created or the age of the universe, but God did not mention the dates in the bible.

You can purchase the book using the link above. The book is available in Kindle and Hardcover format. The book is prime-eligible.

Top 50 Must Know Sites and Tools for Internet Marketing Book Review (Tomoson)

I read the Top 50 Must Know Sites and Tools for Internet Marketing, in exchange for honest review from Tomoson. I wanted to read the book to help me with a social media campaign for my sister, as well as learn new ways to market my blogs and books. The book is a free download once subcribe to Dudl Media's e-mail list.

Part 1 of the book focuses on image creation sites, such as Canva (used this one on a regular basis), Piktochart (used a few times during my last degree program),PicMonkey,  and Video Scribe, which allows you to create animated videos.

Part 2 of the book focuses on Search Engine Optimization SEO) and Keyword Tools sites. Two of the sites include Google Trends (came in handy for my thesis) and Google Analytics. Trends allows you to track search volume of keywords. I used trends to track keywords to help define my thesis down further.

Part 3 focuses on social media. The sites included social media automation, creating Facebook bots, and social media scheduling, such as Buffer. This section could have included more scheduling sites such as HootSuite or Klout for example.

Part 4 focuses on email marketing and subscription lists. Some sites listed include Mail Chimp and Constant Contact. Part 4 is very short as well.

Finally, Part 5 focuses on education, reference, and other sites such as Problogger, Udemy, and SkillShare.

The book is quick read. Find what you need, try out the site, and see if it helps you market your blogs, books, and other projects.

MInimalist Living Review (Tomoson)

Disclaimer: This post contains Amazon Affiliate Links.




I read Minimalist Living in exchange for honest review from Tomoson. I received the book via Kobo. The book was written by George Pain.

I wanted to review the book because last year, I moved from a house to an apartment. I am still trying to unpack, declutter, and organize my house. I just found a sofa and another small table (courtesy apartment dump) within the last week, so I have one less obstacle, to whenever I have company (i.e. therapists, counselors, evaluators, close friends, etc.). The living room is finally looking decent, along with the dining room, kitchen, and bathroom. My final two projects are the bedroom and closet.

My problem in the bedroom is clothes, lots and lots of clothes--from clothes I paid for to items, received for free. I was able to clear some space in the closet to start the closet cleaning process and to make more room for the kids diapers, wipes, and mattress pads.

I need to get rid of any clothes, which are too small or don't fit my style anymore. I also need to get rid of random stuff in the closet such as a speaker or two, I don't use. I have also started reorganizing my essential oil collection in the closet from the floor in cloth bins to plastic bins because the cloth bins are falling apart.

I also need something to better organize laundry by whites; Kalen's clothes and my clothes; and Brad's clothes, until they are washed and dried.

Decluttering and organizing has helped relieve some stress but I still have a long way to go. One of my future goals is to get Brad a mattress with low frame and turn dining room into a mini bedroom. I just need a small tv to keep him in there vs in my bedroom.

The book consists of 6 chapters:

1. Chapter 1 focuses on what minimalism is the benefits of minimalism.
2. Chapter 2 focuses on minimalism and the search for happiness. 
3. Chapter 3 focuses on minimalism as counter consumerism. 
4. Chapter 4 focuses on letting go and moving on
5. Chapter 5 focuses on financial freedom. 
6. Chapter 6 focuses on decluttering

I liked the transformation process outlined in chapter 2, which consists of crisis, curiousity, apprehension, disappointment, gratitude, empowerment, and wholistic. I have admitted I have a crisis and the thought of decluttering brings apprehension when I look at my mess. I also have felt release and gratitude at my progress so far.

I also like how the author discusses the different types of minimalists. I think I fall between the possessions minimalist (getting rid of things, you don't need to save space) and a distractions minimalist (to make a conducive environment to focus).

The book is a short read and I just need to put things learned into practice.

You can purchase the book on Amazon using the link above. The book is available in Kindle and Paperback format. The book is prime-eligible.

The Joy of Letting Go Review (Litfuse)

Disclaimer: This post contains Amazon Affiliate Links.




I read the Joy of Letting Go in exchange for honest review from Litfuse. The book was written by Vicki Caruana. The book is Christian-based, parenting devotional.

I wanted this book because I do have a teenager and a toddler and need all the godly parenting help, I can get. The book is about letting our kids go and letting them lead their own lives. I want my kids to be more independent, despite disability, and not rely on me as much, but yet, I have to teach them how to be more independent. If I want the boys to use the toilet more, I have to put them on the toilet. If I want Brad to use soap in the shower, I have to train him to do so.

And I can't complain too much, whenever they try to do something, no matter how chaotic it may go. For example, Kalen is observant, too observant. He has tried to mop, plunge the toilet, and wash dishses based on seeing me do it. Kalen also cleans walls and helps set out dishes for dinner. Kalen is trying to be independent, despite my dislike for water all over the bathroom floor or an overflowing sink of dishwater because he likes the bubbles.

The author also discussed how she raised her kids to be independent, but they live further away from her as adults and reply back to texts days later.

Note: As I am writing this blog post, Bradd wakes up and takes a shower (no soap). After he gets out the tub, he realizes he has pooped and proceeds to wipe his own butt, while I handed him the wipes. Go Brad.





You can purchase the book in Kindle and hardcover format. The book is prime-eligible.

Unchained Book Review (Litfuse)

Disclaimer: This post contains Amazon Affiliate Links.




I read Unchained by Noel Jesse Heikkinen in exchange for honest review from Litfuse. The book is Christian-based. The book's subtitle if If Jesus has set us free, why don't we feel free?. Guilt. I am a Christian and I have felt guilt over many things, even years after I asked for forgiveness over and over again.

The author discussed how Christians walk around with heavy chains on, worrying about how many mistakes God is adding up. For me, one of my heavy chains is my sexual past. The author said "there is no joy in sin and I felt trapped." I have felt that way many times after having one sexual encounter after another. I was sexually free, but not truly free with God. Freedom should tell the world you are Christian was one of the most powerful lines in the book.

Another topic, which hit me hard was about prayer schedules and reading the bible. The author discussed how people have good intentions to read the bible and pray every day, but then things get in the way. The idea of reading and praying becomes more important than following Jesus. It is like when I took a bible course on purity years ago. Some days, I forgot to log in, so I tried to double up and triple up the next day. Completing the course became more important than trying to improve my spiritual life. When I did complete the course, I was more happy I finally finished though I barely learned anything.

The author said the problem with man-made rules is the rules place yokes, which require more than the bible commands. The man-made rules changes how we think God feels about us and when we fail, "we don't feel free."

I also liked the section on the law (biblical law, aka the old testament). The author discusses how people place different levels of importance on different laws. Is it a better sin if we steal some paper from work versus robbing a  bank? How important is keeping the Sabbath? When was the last time we truly kept the Sabbath?

The section on the law was my favorite section in the book.

The book has discussion questions at the end of each chapter. The book was an amazing read.

You can purchase the book using the link above. The book comes in Kindle and Hardcover format. The book is prime-eligible.

The Dog Who Was There

Disclaimer:This post conntains Amazon Affiliate Links




I readThe Dog Who Was There, in exchange for honest review from Litfuse. The book is Christian-based. I received the ebook version.

About the Book:

No one expected Barley to have an encounter with the Messiah.

He was homeless, hungry, and struggling to survive in first century Jerusalem. Most surprisingly, he was a dog. But through Barley's eyes, the story of a teacher from Galilee comes alive in a way we've never experienced before.

Barley's story begins in the home of a compassionate woodcarver and his wife who find Barley as an abandoned, nearly-drowned pup. Tales of a special teacher from Galilee are reaching their tiny village, but when life suddenly changes again for Barley, he carries the lessons of forgiveness and love out of the woodcarver's home and through the dangerous roads of Roman-occupied Judea.

On the outskirts of Jerusalem, Barley meets a homeless man and petty criminal named Samid. Together, Barley and his unlikely new master experience fresh struggles and new revelations. Soon Barley is swept up into the current of history, culminating in an unforgettable encounter with the truest master of all as he bears witness to the greatest story ever told.

About the Author:

Ron Marasco is a professor in the College of Communication and Fine Arts at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles. His first book, "Notes to an Actor," was named by the American Library Association an Outstanding Book of 2008. His second book, "About Grief," has been translated into multiple languages, and he is currently completing a book on Shakespeare's sonnets.

He has acted extensively on TV-from "Lost" to "West Wing" to "Entourage" to originating the role of Mr. Casper on "Freaks and Geeks"-and appeared opposite screen legend Kirk Douglas in the movie "Illusion," for which he also wrote the screenplay. Most recently, he has played the recurring role of Judge Grove on "Major Crimes." He has a BA from Fordham at Lincoln Center and an MA and Ph. D. from UCLA.

Find out more about Ron at http://www.thomasnelson.com/the-dog-who-was-there.

My Review: 

I loved the book and the angle of how the book is told through the eyes of a dog. The book was well written and detailed. The beginning for example, described the house, Barley and his owners (Duv and Adah, an older couple) lived in, from the low ceiling, one window, and the one room house. The author described the road and atmosphere. The author also described some of the daily chores, Adah and Duv did.  The beginning set the atmosphere for the rest of the book. Barley was a happy, observant dog. The story was set in the city of Jerusalem.

I also liked how the author described Duv's woodcarving process of birds. The book starts off slow. The author describes many things, more than what I discussed above. He set each scene beautifully. If you have a kindle or a reader, which has a text-to-speech option, the book is a great listen.

One powerful scene was Barley's nightmare scene. It was graphic and made you feel like you was there. I was glad when the scene was over.

You can purchase the book here. The book comes in Kindle, paperback, hardback, mp3 cd, and audible format. The book is prime-eligible. 

I'm Going to Give You a Bear Hug Review (FlyBy Blog Promotions)

Disclaimer: This post contains Amazon Affiliate Links.






I read I'm Gong to Give You a Bear Hug by Caroline Clooney in exchange for honest review from FlyBy Blog Promotions. The book was illustrated by Tim Warnes. I wanted the book for Kalen.

The book was cute and easy to read. The book reminded me a bit of Seuss because it rhymed. In the book, the little boy got hugs from various animals, but nothing compared to the bear hug, he got in the end.

Kalen loves the book. He loves being read too. So far, the cover and book is still intact, which means he loves the book. He even hid the book from his brother when brother tried to snatch it from him.


You can purchase the book using the link above. The book is available in hardback, board book, and paperback format. The book is prime-eligible.

Unashamed Book Review (BookLook Bloggers)

Disclaimer: This post contains Amazon Affiliate Links



I read Unashamed by Christine Caine, in exchange for honest review from BookLook Bloggers. I wanted to read the book because I need to learn to let go of some things to move forward in life. Shame keeps us enslaved and with God, we can be set free.

One of the first things, which stood out was the author said shame causes us to throw out good gifts we are given. Shame also causes us to hide and build walls to separate us from others. Shame also keeps you from reaching your full potential. Shame also tells lies to your soul (powerful). Shame tells you that you are not worthy of God's love and grace.

Caine discussed her background growing up and how she was picked on and ridiculed for being Greek, for being a leader, and for being a female. I was picked on for being fat, for being book smart, for not hanging out with the blacks, and for being in AFJROTC in high school. Even as an adult, I got picked on in a college math class because I knew the answers--not because I am good in math--but because I studied to keep from failing, but yet by the end of week 5, I was one of three people, who was passing the class. Professor Tony told me he didnt' care what the other adult students said, if I knew the answer, speak up. He also told the class, if they needed help, contact the three passing students, but that was doing the days of free nights and weekends. No one called me until it was the day of the final and the calls was not free. Could not answer. oh well . lol.

The book came at the right moment. I have many issues to work on and work thru with God.

You can purchase the book in multiple formats: paperback, hardback, kindle, audio cd, and audible. Caine also has a study guide available too. The book is prime-eligible.

Lightning Fast Spanish Book Review (Tomoson)

Disclaimer: This Post Contains Amazon Affiliate Links.

I read Lightning Fast Spanish, in exchange for honest review from Tomoson. I wanted the book to refresh my Spanish skills. I took Spanish in high school. My grades was wonderful--A in Spanish 1, B in Spanish 2, and C in Spanish III. I know some basics but need to refresh and relearn Spanish.

The book was easy to understand, even the exercises. For example, in the chapter on clothes, the author provides a list of clothing with English translations. The author said to practice teaching your kids clothing items by asking questions. Do you want los pantalones or la falda ? (pants or skirt)?

I like how the book wants to immerse Spanish into every day life versus trying to memorize flash cards or using a translator, like I did in high school. I got confused, in high school, on the different tenses; past, present, future and how to conjugate verbs into the different tenses.

You can purchase the book, using the link above in Kindle or Paperback format. . The book also has an audible companion, you can purchase. The book is prime-eligible.