Halfa Moon By Joan Bannan Review

Meg Randallman is just four years old when her six-year-old sister Laura dies and her mother, Norma, kidnaps Meg and her brother, Ray. Meg often wonders how different her personality might have been had she not experienced the brutal shock and grief of Laura's death during her formative years. For seventeen years, Meg is haunted by the guilt and misunderstanding of her sister's death, unable to talk about the tragedy with anyone. In her affluent new home, she buries herself in music and academic


Joan Bannan has written four nonfiction books. She lives in Northern California in a small city with too many roundabouts, in a home with too many birds. This is her first novel.

Published:10/25/2013

Format:Dust Jacket Hardcover

Pages:252

Size:6x9

ISBN:978-1-45821-184-2

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My review ;
"Halfa Moon" is the kind of book that you find hard to put down until you have finished reading it. The story line captures your interest from the very first page. It is full of action and suspense and family drama. Meg has tried to keep going despite everything that has happened to her when she was just a young child. She is very lucky that she meets some people that are both willing and able to help her. I felt both happy and sad for her at the same time. I give this book a 4/5. I was given this book for the purpose of a  review and all opinions are my own.

I was given a copy to review from CWA, however all opinions are my own.

The Master's Quilt by Michael J. Webb Review

The Master's Quilt, by Michael Webb

 

Michael Webb/ The Master's Quilt
ASIN: B00CD6SH2W | List Price: $2.99| Format: Ebook | Page Count: 252

The life of Deucalion Quinctus, Commander of the Garrison under Pontius Pilate, is changed forever by the crucifixion, burial, and resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth, by his sudden love for the beautiful outcast, Esther, and by a bundle of parchments given to him by a mysterious stranger.

Events surrounding the Christos trigger an avalanche which threatens empires–the relentless guilt of Pilate, the frightening ambition of Herod, the uncertain future of Caiaphas, the violent madness of Saul of Tarsus, and the guiding hand of the Watcher, Uriel. Yet, over it all the tenacious love of God weaves a remarkable tale of spiritual power and inspiration.

This compelling historical novel brilliantly pictures dramatic spiritual conflicts in first century Israel; webs of religious and political intrigue that have world powers wavering on cliff’s edge.

First book in the Giants in the Earth trilogy, exciting spiritual thrillers spanning two thousand years.

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Author BIO:
Michael J. Webb graduated summa cum laude from the University of Florida and obtained his J. D. from the same university. Over the past forty years he has travelled the world in search of adventure.He is a history buff, both ancient and modern, and is fascinated by the intersection of the scientific, supernatural, and Biblical world views, and has studied and taught from the Bible extensively for more than twenty-five years. He is also intrigued by recent discoveries in quantum physics that are now providing extraordinary insights into the reality of the spirit realm, especially as it relates to the study of Light. He incorporates all of the above into his supernatural thrillers.
Michael and his wife make their home in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Visit Michael on his blog, Facebook, or his Amazon Author Page.

The Master's Quilt is available at  Amazon and Smashwords.

My Review:

Every Sunday at church I say the Creed and know that it was under Pontius Pilate that Jesus was killed. This book's character Deucalion was very interesting to me. It was also interesting to read about some of the Bible stories, that I know so well, told in a different way. There are so many people in the Bible that this author wrote about that I know he did a lot of research. He brings up Moses and others, and he includes them in his story line. In the beginning of the book there are a lot of character introductions, and I was briefly confused. However as the characters played their part I was reminded of their role in the Bible. It is interesting to read about the man that stabbed Jesus, and not wonder how and why he did what he did. Was he just doing what he was told? How does he react to being at the resurrection site? With all that I loved about this book it was hard to remember that this is fiction, because it could have happened this way. That is what makes a great historical fiction read! This is also the first book in a trilogy and I cannot wait for more from the author. I am giving this book a 5/5. I was given a copy to review from CWA, however all opinions are my own!  

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Everyday Uplifting You by Val Newton-Knowles Review

Val Newton-Knowles/ Everyday Uplifting You
ASIN: B00HYYIA7W  | List Price: $2.99 for Kindle | Format: Soft Kindle | Page Count: 62

What started out as a tool to bless and encourage an aunt quickly became an idea to bless as many people all over the world as possible. Everyday Uplifting you, is a book filled with daily nuggets to jumpstart your day. After watching an aunt broken due to the many obstacles she had been facing, Val decided to do something special for her and started writing nuggets for each day to show her aunt how much she is loved and remind her of the blessing that she is. The book is designed to bless, motivate, uplift and challenge you with powerful nuggets to empower you from the inside out. 

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Author Bio:Val Newton Knowles was born in the beautiful island of Nassau, in the Bahamas. She is a passionate about helping people. Val's new book, "Everyday Uplifting you," is now available. Val started writing daily nuggets to encourage an aunt who had been going through some challenges, the book was such a blessing, that she decided to make it available as an encouragement for others. Val seeks to uplift, motivate and encourage to be the best they can and never allow failure to cause them too give up.

Connect with Val:
Personal Site  | Facebook Fan Page
See Val's other Crew here
        Purchase your copy of Everyday Uplifting You today on Amazon

My Review:

This is a great book for anyone. Readers at all level of sadness will get something from this book. The short phrases were great! I got this as an ebook, so I printed some of them out and taped them around my house to remind myself. The author wrote in a way that was nice and easy to read. The illustrations were also peaceful and I can not wait to read more from this author. I am giving this book a 4/5. I was given a copy from The CWA Review Crew, however all opinions are my own.

"Let My Light Shine" by Julie Kinscheck & LIFLIGHT Review

Julie Kinscheck & LIFLIGHT

02/06/2014

"Let My Light Shine" by Julie Kinscheck & LIFLIGHT is Gospel-Jazz with an infusion of pop-rock and country.

Julie's music reflects a Christian world-view, sometimes boldly, but is really about the hope God can provide- especially to women and Mom's- expressed with some humor, SCAT solos, lush arrangements and depth of heart.

This music is her ministry to shine God's light in a dark world.

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Singer-Songwriter/ Guitarist: 

Julie Kinscheck brings a message of hope with a twist of jazz and a scoop of country to contemporary Gospel music. Audiences are moved by her heartfelt lyrics, enjoy her soaring vocals and relate to the real and often humorous stories behind her songs. She also has a unique gift for vocal improvisation (SCAT) splattered colorfully  across the canvas of her songs earning her the title: Queen of  SCAT!  (www.julieksings.com)

Currently living in the Boston area, Julie K has played across the US and Europe. She has been honored to play on large stages such as Madison Square Garden, NYC and the AT&T Center in San Antonio as well as many conferences, churches, restaurants, weddings and clubs.  She especially enjoys singing for women’s events because so many of her songs speak to the hearts of  women.  She is also often found singing for charity benefits for Hope Worldwide, Compassion International and most anything that helps children in need.

Julie Has won songwriting awards from Billboard, the Nashville City Song Contest. She was named one of the Best Unsigned Songwriters by the National Academy of Songwriters in 1991… Since then she has released four independent CD’s.  She is married to her keyboardist and producer, Ralph Kinscheck and is proud mom to twins Caleb and Hannah.

Discography:
“Let My Light Shine” is her newest album; produced by her  husband Ralph Kinscheck with their original band LIFLIGHT for their independent label: Jharck Records; just released in January 2014!

The song: “Jesus Wept” from the new disc was just released to International radio and can now be requested around the world!Their last release: “Grace With Jazz On Top” played on over 5000 international radio stations with the hit “Coffee Song” in Austria.

Some songs from their 2007 Christian rock for kids CD:  “The Force” are currently being resurrected for a new generation of kids!
Julie also made a live CD with her Gospel-Jazz vocal group Faith in Action called “Faith in Action Live.”See www.julieksings.com to read  reviews,  preview or purchase  all CD’s

In their review of Julie Kinscheck's CD “Grace With Jazz On Top”, Metronome Magazine wrote: "Whether you're fan of the folk tradition or a follower of spiritual singers, Julie Kinscheck's songwriting and outstanding vocal work will satisfy you to your soul."

“Your revelation is the tune I dance to!” – Psalm 119:77

Family History Plus:
Julie grew up in a very musical family in Ithaca, NY. Her brothers Chris and Gary played bass and drums in local bands. Her father sang opera and her mother wrote poetry. She began as a folk singer and eventually played a street tour across Europe. She was almost signed then to record deal in London with former ABBA producer Richard “the Lionhearted” Gillison- but it wasn’t her time yet.

Julie started her jazz studies at Oberlin Conservatory in Ohio.. There she led a four part jazz vocal group and sang folk songs folk songs with her guitar at the local Cat in the Cream coffee house.  After two and a half years, Julie transferred to Berklee College of Music where she graduated Cum Laude with the prestigious Cleo Lain Jazz Vocal Award.After years of playing in every kind of band, writing and playing her own material on the side- and many near misses with the music industry; Julie had a profound awakening in her Christian faith which set her on her current musical path.

Julie is now actively involved in leading both adult and children in the worship ministry in her church, playing shows everywhere both to promote her latest CD and continue her music ministry.Her mission is to let her light shine and to lead others to a relationship with Christ starting with their music.  She and Ralph are praying to take LIFLIGHT to do a Musical Missions tour in Europe in the near future.

If you know of churches or other venues that might be interested in having them play, please contact Julie at www.julieksings.com,   julieksings@comcast.net    617-686-7075 

My Review
This was a really nice album that crossed many genres. I like that each song was different and I was not bored. The singer has a great voice, and I would love to go to one of her concerts. This is definitely unlike other songs. Jesus Wept and Coffee Song were my favorite. Julie has a style all her own, and she manages to get her thoughts about God to her listeners. I am giving this album a 4/5. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book/Ebook/Product to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew. 

The Boy Who Walked A Way by Nancy Janes Review

Nancy Janes/ The Boy Who Walked A Way
ISBN: 9781479139071 | List Price: $12.98 |Format: Softcover | Page Count: 240

In the year 2162, a young boy named Jal Valhyn is caught in a maelstrom of violence and conflict. His country is at war and the world government based on humanistic principles that had fulfilled its promise of a halcyon peace for over a century has fallen. Alone and helpless, he has an encounter with an invisible being that leads to a seven-day journey. With his two appointed companions he sets out for a safe haven far from the world of danger and turmoil. Each day's trek brings the gift of new friendships and a growing awareness that life has dimensions grounded in more than the material. He intuitively understands the faith that sustains the inhabitants of an enduring peaceable kingdom.

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 Author Bio:
The Boy Who Walked A Way began several ago and was published in 2013. The book is a an allegory written on simple lines suitable for both adults and children.

Nancy Janes has written on various Christian based topics since childhood. She grew up in the Appalachians of Kentucky where her Christian heritage rooted firmly before relocating to an urban setting in mid-adolescence. She attended Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan and obtained a Masters degree in Social Work.

Her mental health career focused on therapy for families, children, women’s issues and the elderly. She wrote programs for families and other work related activities. After retirement she resumed writing fiction and finds its demands as absorbing as her former occupation.

The Appalachians have once again reclaimed her after an interlude in the West. She and her Quaker husband live in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.

Another work of fiction based on selected characters from the book, The Boy Who Walked A Way will be released in the future.

Endorsement:

Epically written and filled with grand detail into the chaotic world the boy escaped from, this novel comes from the author's love of literary work that expresses the divine, lovely and sometimes chaotic experience of all walks of life. With the use of descriptive imagery and dialogue, the reader will be pulled in and will want to know what happens next. This is a deeply touching novel that will touch the innocent child in all of us and encourage us to keep our faith whatever life circumstances may bring.

...a must read ...

A Christian Book Review-CBM

Find Nancy on the following websites:
Author website: jazele.wordpress.comAmazon Author page: http://amazon.com/author/nancyjanes
http://twitter.com/nancy1janes
https://www.facebook.com/pages/authornancyjanes/498424470193886?ref=hl
www.linkedin.com/in/nancyjanesz/
The Boy Who Walked A Way on Amazon.

My Review:

Jal was on a journey, with himself and his faith. The world is not a happy place to live. His parents and uncle are all called on to fight in the war. He is afraid and he decides to leave before he is found. I liked that his journey was 7 days, like in the beginning of the Bible. This is definitely an imaginative story for kids that are older than 9. I liked the concept and it was very interesting. However at times I was lost and confused as to what was going on. Maybe a glossary would help. However this is young adult and I think that kids will like it and not look into it as much as I did. I am giving this book a 3/5.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book/Ebook/Product to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew. 

Esther Queen of Persia by Jim Baumgardner Review

Jim Baumgardner/ Esther Queen of Persia
ISBN: 978-0988410718| List Price: $16.95 | Format: Softcover & ebook | Page Count: 304

Hadassah, the beautiful, Jewish teenager from the city of Susa in Persia, is taken by force to the palace of King Ahasuerus. His command to find the most beautiful virgins in his kingdom, and bring them to the house of women, has placed Hadassah under the supervision of Hegai, the king's custodian of women. Hegai and his servants, have one year to prepare each virgin for one night with the king. Although Hadassah was taken from her home by force, she refuses to become bitter. She accepts being called Esther, but inside remains always, Hadassah. She continually wonders why she is there, yet remains faithful to her God, and to her identity. It is years before the answer is revealed. Her people face annihilation, and it falls upon her shoulders to stop it. Her first thought is to shirk her duty, but Mordecai, her cousin, will not allow it. His words, '"Who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?"' brings her to her senses.

Unlike many of the novels written about Esther, this book seeks to remain true to the Biblical account, while supplying additional historical information from the time period 486-473 B.C. The book has a five page Introduction, which gives insight into some of the things found in the story. It has a page, listing the months of the Jewish sacred calendar and the corresponding month of our modern calendar. Also in the back of the book is a listing of Scriptures mentioned in each chapter, along with a listing of works consulted in research for Esther Queen of Persia.

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Author Bio: Born in Wichita, Kansas, Jim Baumgardner, raised by Christian parents, gave his life to Christ in 1957. The author continues to reside in Wichita with his wife Linda. They have three children and nine grandchildren. Jim has seven published books. Four are known as the Sarah books, which tell of the adventures of a girl named Sarah, set in the 19thCentury. The other three are Bible novels, including the author’s latest release Esther Queen of Persia. All of Jim’s books are primarily written for his grandchildren’s benefit.


To learn more about Jim and his books, visit his websites: 
http://www.biblenovels.net/
http://kansasjimbo.bravejournal.com/
http://www.sarahbooks.net/
You can also find him on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn, Google +,and Goordreads.

Esther Queen of Persia has three awards including: a Finalist Award in the Book of the Year Awards for Adult Religious Fiction, Reader's Favorite and the B.R.A.G medallion award.

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You can purchase your copy of Esther Queen of Persia: A Courageous Woman for a Dangerous Time
on Amazon.

My Review:

This was a great book based on the Bible. I am not that familiar with the book of Esther, however I read through it before I read this book. I liked that the author kept the information in the Bible and added to it, rather than changing it. There was also scripture in the book that related to what the characters were going through. This is definitely an interesting time period. Esther was a strong woman, and I was not surprised by the way women were treated back then. I really enjoyed this read, I am giving this book a 5/5. 

Disclosure:  I received a free copy of this book/Ebook/Product to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.

Perfumed Letters by Robin T. Smith Review

Robin T. Smith/ Perfumed Letters
ISBN: 9781478713876   | List Price: $12.95 for print, $9.95 in Kindle| Format: Kindle and Soft cover | Page Count: 156

Every woman knows how special it is to select just the right perfume…and how a scent can capture an experience or evoke a memory like nothing else.   In Perfumed Letters, Robin Smith offers a refreshing spiritual revelation regarding the intimacy of perfume, known as a woman’s anointing. She uses powerful, evocative images from the Bible and life experiences to illustrate how God refines, presses, and fashions our individual scents as pleasing to the Lord.

Discover:

• Are you a concrete, absolute or an essential oil?
• Fragrances that attract blessing and repel favor.
• The purpose and influence of a Perfumed Letter.
• How God uses fragrance to remember His covenant with you.
• Your signature fragrance in Christ… and so much more!

With writing that is fragrant with His word, love and experience, Robin gives a unique perspective on the ways in which each woman is fashioned in the aroma of His Spirit--important and valuable to Him, written as His Perfumed Letter.

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Author Bio:Robin Smith is a native of Cahokia, Illinois. She is a motivational speaker, freelance writer and Editor-in-Chief of Perfumed Ink, an online magazine for the Christian woman debuting January 2014. She is currently in her 12th year of active duty service in the United States Air Force. A graduate of Cahokia High school, Robin is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in English with Ashford University. In addition to motherhood, duty, and education, she is pursuing certification as an Etiquette Instructor. A bit of an adrenaline junkie, when she is not writing, she is involved in traveling, hiking and archery.

website: http://www.perfumedletters.com/.

She loves hearing from her readers.

You can also find Robin on Facebook and Twitter.

Buy your copy directly from the Publisher, on Amazon, or at Barnes and Noble.

My Review:

This was an interesting book for me. I say this because I plant certain flowers around my house, because of their scent. I have mint, lemon balm, lavender, sage, and as I walk in my yard the smells make me feel happy, relaxed, etc. I also thought that the message makes sense. Our environment has to do with our feelings, moods and of course those relate to our faith. I also liked the reflection section at the end of each chapter. This was a great book, and it made me think about the things around me. I am giving this book a 4/5. 

  I received a free copy of this book/Ebook/Product to review.  I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.