Picturing Heaven - Adult Coloring Book

Book Description

Imagine Heaven the way the Bible describes it―a place of exquisite beauty brimming with marvelous detail and intricate patterns; a special dwelling place free of corruption and sin; and a place of both rest and enjoyable, meaningful work.

Let the power and majesty of Heaven fill your heart with joy as you color these 40 designs carefully interpreted from the pages of Scripture. Savor a respite from daily life as you read and meditate on devotions from best–selling author Randy Alcorn, a leading authority on Heaven. Picturing Heaven will offer you comfort and relaxation, while filling your heart with restful assurance that God prepares a special place for those who love Him.

My Review

Picturing Heaven is an amazing Devotional with full color-in pages that goes along with each devotion! I really enjoyed this book because it wasn't just another coloring book. Filled with 40 Devotions, each with a beautiful full-page work of art to fill in, you get to experience God's word in a new way and draw closer to him through these devotions and quiet time coloring in. Just dwelling on Him through this time. 
The artwork, illustrated by Lizzie Preston, is absolutely gorgeous! I've come across many adult coloring books and I would maybe only like a few pictures but in this book I loved every single one of them!
This would make a great gift for family and friends who like to color and maybe even those who don't, this just might be what gets them started!

I give this book a 5 out of 5 stars! 

I received this book for free from the publisher’s in exchange for this honest and unbiased review for Tyndale.

A Day at the Beach by Jedd & Todd Hafer

Book Description

Do you yearn for a day at the beach where your mind and soul can wander away from life’s troubles? Do you gaze up at the sun or the nighttime stars and wonder if God is really on your side? Do you long to hear his quiet voice in the roll of a gentle wave? In A Day at the Beach, brothers Todd and Jedd Hafer don’t have the answers to all of life’s troubles, but they’ll help you see that the God who built the universe also wants to help you build a great life. Let these encouraging words bring a ray of warm sunshine to your doorstep as Todd and Jedd offer their joy-filled perspectives on life and faith. So take a deep breath, unplug from life’s daily grind, and follow the call of your heart to Jesus, the ultimate source of life.

My Review


On vacation? Need a nice little book to read while soaking up the sun or sitting under the umbrella? A Day at the Beach is a great little refreshing read! Filled with inspiring devotions to brighten your day, brother's Jedd & Todd Hafer have written stories to help you relax, reflect, and renew for this summer!

I love the exterior as well as interior design of this book! Imitation textured leather, summer orange and embossed with a Pineapple on the outside, and then nice teal colored letters and borders inside! 

All of it inviting, welcoming, and rejuvenating! 

I give this book a 4 out of 5!

I received this book for free from the publisher’s in exchange for this honest and unbiased review for Tyndale.

Tranquility: A Prayer and Reflection Coloring Journal

Book Description 

Tranquility: A Prayer and Reflection Coloring Journal invites you to mix creative journaling and coloring into your personal time with God. Prayers that focus on topics such as being thankful, dealing with stress and heartache, caring for yourself and others, listening for God’s leading, and waiting patiently on Him will guide your thoughts and calm your spirit. Filled with more than 100 designs to color, plenty of space for journaling, and 40 needs-based prayers, Tranquility will help you express your devotion to God with your whole heart.

My Review

I was so glad to see Tyndale had created yet another wonderful coloring book! The first one I got from this line was their Gratitude: Prayer & Praise Journal. And like the one before, this one is filled with beautifully illustrated pictures and encouraging, uplifting, inspiring words and pictures to meditate and reflect on! Don't believe me, take a look: 

And that's only but a few pages! Each page is filled with something to color or discover. I love this book! This makes a wonderful gift for yourself or a friend or family member for any time of year!

I give this book a 5 out of 5 !

I received this book for free from the publisher’s in exchange for this honest and unbiased review for Tyndale.

The Wonder of You by Susan May Warren

Book Description

Mortified after her semester abroad is cut short, Amelia Christiansen returns to Deep Haven, certain she isn’t brave enough for the adventures she’s dreamed of. The last thing she expects is for the man who broke her heart to cross the Atlantic and beg forgiveness.

Heir to a European hotel dynasty, Roark St. John has trekked from one exotic locale to another, haunted by tragedy and the expectations that accompany his last name. Amelia is the first woman to give him a reason to stop running. He’ll do anything for a second chance―even contend with Amelia’s old flame, who is intent on sending Roark packing.

While one surprise after another leaves Amelia reeling, Roark’s continued presence only highlights the questions pursuing her. Like him, is she running from the life God has called her to? Could finding her new place mean leaving home behind?

My Review

Beautiful, just beautiful! I loved getting to know Amelia's character. Having started from book #3 I haven't really gotten to know her!

When I saw this was about a rich boy coming to win an american hometown girl I was just a tad concerned I would get bored really quickly. However, that was not the case!

First of all, Roark is not what I expected, far better in fact. He has a much different story than I ever expected. Roark has never felt for anyone the way he does for Amelia Christiansen. He crosses the ocean to try and win her back. However, he has quite a few obstacles to get through. Including some demons that haunt him till this day.  

Amelia runs back home from heartbreak, but that's not all she is running from. She has to figure out what God's will is for her. Is it a life with her high school sweetheart, is it life of adventure taking pictures across the world, is it taking the ultimate risk of a relationship with the British playboy or is she meant for something more?

I loved that the song "Be Thou My Vision" was a part of this book! It just really enhanced the book and overall story of these two endearing characters and then some.

This amazing book is filled with adventure, romance, and faith! Susan May Warren can never disappoint ;) 

I give this book a 5 out of 5!

All is Bright Coloring Journal

Book Description

This Christmas season, celebrate the birth of our Savior through beautiful design and devotion. Grab your colored pencils, cozy up with your favorite blanket and a cup of tea, and settle in for a night of peace and wonder with All Is Bright. For lovers of the Secret Garden and Enchanted Forest coloring books, All Is Bright is the perfect way to transform the Advent and Christmas seasons for your whole family, re-centering the holidays on the miracle of Jesus’ birth. Combining 31 days of rich content by the beloved and inspirational Nancy Guthrie with intricate designs that will reconnect you with the heart of Christ, this coloring book devotional journey reminds us all of what the season really calls us to: worship.

My Review

I love this book! I was so happy to get it. Filled with beautiful pictures to color in, I can't wait to color them all! What I loved about this book as well is that it wasn't just another coloring book, it is also a devotional! Perfect for the coming holidays. These devotions will get you in the Christmas spirit and remind you of the wonderful miracle that is Christmas: the birth of Jesus Christ. The real reason we celebrate and what fills out hearts with hope!

This book makes a perfect gift for family, friends, or even yourself! In the back there is even family activities you can do as a family together, especially if you have little ones. It's a wonderful coloring book to have this year.

I received this book for free from the publisher’s in exchange for this honest and unbiased review for Tyndale Blog Network.

365 Pocket Morning Prayers

Book Description

Each morning when you arise, take a moment to talk with God about the day ahead. Ask Him to prepare your heart so that you can be ready to face any challenge that comes your way. 365 Pocket Morning Prayers can guide this time of life-changing conversation and help you express your needs and concerns to God. Don’t worry about what the day will bring. Instead, release your troubles and concerns into God’s care by reading and meditating on the prayers featured in 365 Pocket Morning Prayers. Begin your day in joyful anticipation, trusting that God is in control of your life and wants only the best for you.

My Review

A wonderful little morning prayer devotion to get your day started right! It's small enough you can carry it with you anywhere. A nice leather cover and embossing. It makes for a wonderful gift to add for any occasion. 

I give this book a 5 out of 5!

I received this book for free from the publisher’s in exchange for this honest and unbiased review for Tyndale Blog Network.

Gratitude: A Prayer and Praise Coloring Journal

Book Description

Gratitude: A Prayer and Praise Coloring Journal invites you to bring creative journaling and the calming act of coloring into your quiet time with God. This beautifully designed interactive prayer book from Tyndale’s Living Expressions collection helps guide your thoughts as you pray about concerns such as health, overcoming stress, personal relationships, and more. Gratitude gives you a way to celebrate and give thanks to God for the many blessings he provides. Filled with over 100 designs to color, plenty of space for journaling and sketching, and 40 needs-based prayers, Gratitude helps you express your devotion to God with your whole heart!

My Review

I love this journal!!! It has so many beautiful illustrations to color in and wonderful encouraging words from scripture and praise God for in our time of prayer and reflection. Checkout some of the pictures from inside and see for yourself!

This makes for a great gift for any occasion: Birthdays, Holidays, or just Thinking of You surprise days!

I give this a 5 out of 5!

I received this book for free from the publisher’s in exchange for this honest and unbiased review for Tyndale.

Agents of Babylon by David Jermiah

Book Description

In his #1 New York Times bestseller Agents of the Apocalypse, noted prophecy expert Dr. David Jeremiah explored the book of Revelation through the lens of its major players. Now, in the much-anticipated follow-up, Agents of Babylon, Dr. Jeremiah examines prophecy through the eyes of the characters in the book of Daniel, explains what the prophecies mean, and helps us understand how these prophetic visions and dreams apply to our lives today. Written in the same highly engaging half dramatization, half Bible teaching format as Agents of the Apocalypse,Agents of Babylon is not only an in-depth exploration of the characters and prophecies contained in the book of Daniel but also a dramatic retelling of Scripture that is sure to bring ancient prophecy to light like never before.

My Review

After reading most of Agents of Apocolypse (it's a popular book at the Library, I wasn't able to finish it before the due date!!) I knew I had to read this book!

I've always been fascinated with Revelations since I was young, but for many years I didn't connect prophecies from the Old Testament to Revelation. I always thought it was solely connected to Christ's coming to die on the cross; of course, I've grown since then and know so much more!

This book is just filled with fascinating information and thought provoking Bible study time! I felt like a sponge absorbing and then expanding, thinking more in-depth about the book of Daniel than I ever had before. It was truly awesome. This book is definitely well worth reading. I don't know what else I can say about it except to pick up and copy for you and your friend and start reading it! I'm going to get one of girl friends to start reading it (I'll gladly read it again) and go through each chapter with her so we can talk about it. Great work David Jeremiah!

I give this book a 5 out of 5!

I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for this honest and unbiased review as part Tyndale Blog Network program

Take A Chance On Me by Susan May Warren

Book Description

Darek Christiansen is almost a dream bachelor―oldest son in the large Christiansen clan, heir to their historic Evergreen Lake Resort, and doting father. But he’s also wounded and angry since the tragic death of his wife, Felicity. No woman in Deep Haven dares come near. 

New assistant county attorney Ivy Madison simply doesn’t know any better when she bids on Darek at the charity auction. Nor does she know that when she crafted a plea bargain three years ago to keep Jensen Atwood out of jail and in Deep Haven fulfilling community service, she was releasing the man responsible for Felicity’s death. All Ivy knows is that the Christiansens feel like the family she’s always longed for. And once she gets past Darek’s tough exterior, she finds a man she could spend the rest of her life with. Which scares her almost as much as Darek learning of her involvement in his wife’s case. 

Caught between new love and old grudges, Darek must decide if he can set aside the past for a future with Ivy―a future more and more at risk as an approaching wildfire threatens to wipe out the Christiansen resort and Deep Haven itself.

My Review

It's a wonder how I ever missed such a book! Susan May Warren's first book in the Christiansen Family series is one you won't want to miss! A story of repentance, forgiveness, and taking a chance on God!

Darek Christiansen, most eligible bachelor in town, yet no ones dares bid on him; the man with the boulder size chip on his shoulder. That is, until Ivy Madison comes to Deep Haven. Not knowing his history, feeling sorry for him she bids on the lonely bachelor. She soon wishes she hadn't. Darek has built walls around him so thick, it seems nearly impossible to get through them. But this woman just might be his undoing. 

Ivy Madison, new assistant county attorney of Deep Haven, an orphan looking for a home. Her whole life seems to be a struggle of survival and belonging. Moving from foster home to foster home slowly built a wall around her heart. But that didn't stop her, she went to Law school to help those who, like herself, fall through the cracks. 

One of the things I absolutely love about Susan's books, they don't revolve solely around two characters. More characters come into play with their own wonderful story which beautifully weaves everything together! I can't help but love every character that enters the scene. 

Claire Gibson, gardner by day and pizza maker by night. Every one is encouraging her to move on and leave Deep Haven, but with her grandfather sick how can she live? But is that her only reason for staying? Something deeper lingers inside, love or fear? 

Jensen Atwood, accused felon working off his probation in a town where everyone seems to hate him. Even himself. After allegedly killing the wife of his best friend, Jensen stays secluded rather than face the town and their judgment. 

Darek's mother, Ingrid, has to be one of my absolute favorites. Her faith and love is the honey that glues it all together. She melted my heart with her tender love towards Ivy. The love for her son and grandson. It made me desperately long to go a visit Ingrid Christiansen just to get a hug from her. 

Each one of these characters experience a form of grief, loss, disappointment, and love. Not just from one another, but in God. I found every one of them so relatable I cried. The feeling of rejection and doubt of belonging to disappointment and wondering if God would listen. 

I originally started this series in book #3: When I Fall In Love. I had no idea it was a part of the series or that it was in the middle of one. But that's a good thing! I was able to read and fall in love with the series without feeling like I'd jumped in the middle of something. However, now that I've read the first book, I feel more complete!

I hope you will check out this book and the rest of the Christiansen Family series. You won't be disappointed. And if you are, well, maybe you are just having a bad day and need to try again next time! Haha!

I give this book a 5 out of 5 stars!

NLT Comprehensive Concordance

Book Description

You already know that the New Living Translation speaks your language. Now the NLT Comprehensive Concordance provides the perfect companion as a powerful tool to help you explore the depths of God’s Word.

 

•       Full English concordance listings for every major word in the NLT
• Introductions to the New Living Translation, including translation philosophy and scholars involved in the translation
• The number of occurrence of each word listed
• Inclusions of many archaic terms and common renderings from other translations which are not found in the NLT

A concordance is an invaluable tool for serious Bible study, and the NLT Comprehensive Concordance packs a lot of value into a single volume. Designed to be useful for serious in-depth study or for quick reference, this concordance will help you find what you are looking for.

My Review

I was so excited when this came in the mail! I redeemed it with my Tyndale Rewards! They really are so amazing!

I’ve always liked using the concordance in the back of my own Bible when I’m studying or trying to remember a certain verse, but I needed an upgrade. Man, did I get an upgrade! 1229 pages and hundreds of thousands verses worth of upgrade!

My dad brought it in from the mailbox and asked, “What is this? It’s so thick!”

It sure is. But it’s not monster size (thank goodness). It’s large enough so you don’t have to squint to read the letters, but not so big/heavy you hate pulling it off your shelf. I can’t wait to pick it up!

Every major word is listed (in the very back there is even a list of words not used in this book) and categorized by name. It’s really neat. For instance, I was looking for the verse “give your burdens to the Lord, for he cares for you.” But I couldn’t remember where it was. So, I pulled out my concordance and went straight to burdens. I found the verse in Psalms 55. But it still wasn’t the exact one I was thinking of. Then I remembered one that said “your cares” rather than burdens. I turned to C and found cares and found the verse I was looking for in 1 Peter 5.

I had been trying to remember where that verse was for two days! This book has really become a great tool.

I’m sure some of you are thinking, “why not just search for it online? Surely, it would be so much faster than hunting through a book.” But that is such thinking in this digital age where everything is at our fingertips. Many don’t want to take the time to search. They’d rather skip over the wonderful yellow-brick road straight to the emerald city. You ‘ll never know what treasures await you if you don’t take on the adventure.

Another major problem for me, and I’m sure many more alike, is that having the internet at our fingertips causes many more distractions than if we searched for and pulled out a book.

I recommend getting a concordance for any version! But, if you just so happen to have an NLT than this is the book for you.

Winter Delight!

I got a lovely package in the mail the other day! Evergreen, a Christiansen family novella by Susan May Warren! Check it out! Eeek!

I couldn't wait to share this with you guys. Wanna know how I came to get this little treasure? Through Tyndale Rewards! I'm serious. I didn't spend a penny on this book! 

This is actually the second item I've received from Tyndale Rewards. I can't tell you the other one (it's a surprise present for my sister!) but it looks just as wonderful as this! I redeemed it for 70 points a few days before Christmas and it came 3 weeks later in perfect, brand new condition! I truly love this program! 

Here's how it works, easy and simple: sign up!

Seriously, it's that easy. If you use my promo code when you sign up, you get an additional 25 points for signing up. I get 10, but I'd do this without any incentive. However, you guys get the better end of the rewards! Which is why I added my promo code to this post. Every 25 points counts!You can earn up to 50 points a month just for tweeting about it, sharing on your facebook, or blog. Then there's simple survey's that get you a pretty bunch of points. 

"Evergreen" was only 70! 

And there are so many more for that same price, some even a little lower. There's more than just fiction, too. There's Bibles, Non Fiction, Audio books. If you're careful and watch out, some books get featured that aren't normally on there (like Evergreen!) 

When I first started out with this program, I earned almost immediately 150. Spent 175 and then a couple months later earned another 150; spent 70. And then earned back more than half of it in the same hour just by tweeting! And, because they are Tyndale products, I can earn 10 per item I review as well. So, I will earn 10 points back (because you all know I love to share my books with you all!), which really only made it 60 points in the end!

I'm not hear to win more points. I'm sincerely sharing with anyone who's interested in this to sign up and really get some free (non hassle), Christian books. :) I am truly impressed with them and had to share about it.

Click the Tyndale Reward picture below. It will bring you straight to the signup with my promo code already set in. You just fill in your email address and zip code and your ready!

Incase the picture link doesn't work you can click here, too: 

www.tyndalerewards.com/signup/?pc=hsmp-noww-p8gt-ljrq

God bless you this fine Thursday!

When I Fall In Love by Susan May Warren

Book Description

Hawaii was the last place Grace Christiansen ever imagined she’d vacation, much less fall in love. But when her family surprises her with a cooking retreat in paradise, she is pulled—or maybe yanked—away from her predictable, safe life and thrown headfirst into the adventure of a lifetime.

Max Sharpe may make his living on the ice as a pro hockey player, but he feels most at home in the kitchen. Which is why he lives for the three-week culinary vacation he takes each year in Hawaii. Upon being paired with Grace for a cooking competition, Max finds himself drawn to her passion, confidence, and perseverance. But just when Grace dares to dream of a future beyond her hometown, Max pulls away.

Wrestling with personal demons, Max fights against opening his heart to a love he knows he should never hope for. And as his secrets unfold, Grace is torn between the safe path in front of her and what her heart truly desires. If love means sacrificing her ideal happily ever after, Grace’s faith will face its toughest test yet.

My Review

My first trip to Deep Haven is not one I will ever forget, I can't wait to return! I am aching to get back there!

I saw the title and instantly began humming the beautiful, romantic, melody of "When I Fall in Love" by Nat King Cole. We all probably know that song from Harry Connick Jr. and Michael Buble keeping such a timeless song alive. But I'm here to tell you, this book is just as amazing!

As soon as I started, I was sucked into the world of Deep Haven and the Christiansen family. Grace is back in the kitchen (more like hiding away), catering for her brother Darrek's wedding. Grace is a home girl, she never wants to leave Deep Haven (though I can't blame her; I don't want to leave Deep Haven!) but its fear that is holding her back not the deep love and connection she has with her home. When she gets to the reception, she's surprised with a trip to Hawaii. I instantly felt like I became Grace. She was so relatable, because like Grace I don't like venturing out on my own. I'd rather stay at home where I know its safe and familiar. I loved what I learned from Grace's story. As she grows, she learns that she needs Christ first before she can even dream of Max, but that she will also need Jesus if she has to let Max go. She finds strength in Him to do what's best and right and that included loving Max. 

Max Sharpe was such an amazing character. You saw two different sides to him. This funny, charming, caring man and the man who was afraid of living because there might not be enough time. I saw him do things I've never really seen other characters do in the stories I've read but that you would see in real life. I don't want to spoil for you. But Susan May Warren knows how not only how to write but make her characters and stories believeable and relatable and addicting. Not like soap opera drama, but you genuinly love the entire book and all its characters.
Speaking of characters. I love how Susan May Warren preps everything for the next book. That's right, this book was not solely about Grace and Max, but a few other characters had their own stories. Specifically, Grace's brothers Owen and Casper, and friend Raina. Their stories were just as captivating and don't end with this book. Oh no, those are just the tidbits to get you hooked so you come back for more.

All these other pieces are just in perperation for the next book! Always On My Mind comes out January 1, 2015 and I will most definitely be getting it some way, somehow!

I didn't know this was the third book in a series, I almost couldn't tell it wasn't a stand alone except for all these characters that just kept popping up and I wondered who they were. You could read this alone and almost not miss a thing. But I am dying to read the previous two novels!

Thank you Susan May Warren, you have captured me into your beautiful world!


I received this book for free from the publisher’s in exchange for this honest and unbiased review as part of Tyndales Blogging Review program.