"Paint Chips"

by Susie Finkbeiner
Review & GIVEAWAY!

5.0 out of 5 stars A journey through healing & redemption

What lies beneath the layers of hurt?

Though haunted by her troubled past, Dot has found a safe haven. She has a fierce protector and a colorful collection of friends...but sometimes she wonders if her life will ever be normal again. Though college and romance await her, embracing them requires a new kind of strength--one she isn't sure she has.

Emerging from years of confusion, Cora struggles to latch hold of the sanity she needs to return to the real world. She yearns to find a place of peace...but first she must deal with the ghosts of her past.

Can this mother and daughter overcome abuse, betrayal, abandonment, and the horrors of sexual trafficking, and make it back into each others arms?

Facing the past is never easy. But as they chip away the layers, they might just find something beautiful beneath the mess.

Available now on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and
Baker Book House in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Biography

Susie Finkbeiner is a novelist from West Michigan. Her first novel "Paint Chips" released in 2013 and her second novel "My Mother's Chamomile" in  2014. She worked with WhiteFire Publishing on both novels. 

Susie's third novel "A Cup of Dust" will release Fall, 2015 with Kregel Publications.

Susie is a wife, mother of three, and avid reader. She enjoys time with her family, coffee dates with her good friends, and quiet moments to read and write.

Susie Finkbeiner is represented by Ann Byle from Credo Communications. 

Susie can be reached at her website: http://www.susiefinkbeiner.com/ and Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-Susie-Finkbeiner/191087155015?sk=timeline

My Review ~

"Paint Chips" reveals the painful life stories of three women whose lives were very nearly destroyed as young children. Their stories are interwoven in a remarkable manner, each sharing a common thread. Abuse is no stranger to these women as their childhood lives were brutally torn from them, innocence and youth destroyed. These atrocities are all too common in our society, emotional, verbal, physical and sexual abuse. As the stories of these three women unfold realism becomes so profoundly cruel that you'll never see life the same way again. The atrocities of what these women suffered are happening all around us, in the slums, in the suburbs, in our own backyards, even here in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Due to the risk of spoilers I am not going into further detail regarding a description of this book.

Susie Finkbeiner has researched a very difficult topic, sex trafficking in all its basal forms, how it begins, where it is found, how it travels, the effects of this ever-growing cancer in our society. This is a Christian reality fiction story that you need to read for yourself. The author is very careful in not becoming graphic in her descriptions of the abuses that occur throughout this story. Openness and honesty are at the core of this difficult tale told with compassion that encompasses the lives described throughout "Paint Chips," and those who reach out to help them. When I took "Paint Chips" off the shelf I knew I was in for a ride into the dark side of life, but I found the hand of God within the pages of this book. At times I felt I couldn't read fast enough, and then I had to stop, lay the book aside, and process the images that raced through my mind. 

The author is very gifted at painting a realistic portrait of life at ground level. Mental images created through her descriptive talents revealed authentic impressions of the various locations throughout the book. The inhumanity of life in its most barbarous form is revealed in a very tasteful and sensitive manner. The brutal honesty in "Paint Chips" occurs in every community, today, tonight, tomorrow and until our society puts a stop to the practice. 

Pick up a copy of this book and educate yourself to the activities going on around you, and take a stand to help cure this cancer of the human spirit. I highly recommend this book, particularly to those who work with children. You could be the one to identify an issue that may be happening to a child in your life.

Disclaimer: I purchased a copy of this book for my own reading pleasure, with no expectations from the author or publisher to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.

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A Robertson Family Christmas

by Miss Kay Robertson

& Travis Thrasher

5.0 out of 5 stars Humorous, poignant & entertaining!

Description

Hunter Clarke wanted one thing for Christmas: to spend it with his dad and his brother. He misses being included in any guy trips since his parents divorced and he went to live with his mom. So he’s less than happy when his mother tells him that he won a contest to spend Christmas in West Monroe, Louisiana, with a family named the Robertsons. For some reason, they’re supposed to be a big deal. How did he win a contest he didn't enter? Besides, he’s never heard of them and sure doesn't want to spend Christmas in a swamp with a bunch of strangers.

Korie Robertson is excited to open her heart and home to Hunter and show him what the Christmas season looks like for the Robertson family. And like it or not, Hunter experiences it firsthand. From duck-hunting disasters with the bearded guys, to learning to cook with Miss Kay, Hunter quickly discovers what it’s like to live with this boisterous, yet loving family. Putting on his headphones and ignoring them is not an option. Before long, Hunter begins to let his guard down. But with Christmas and the end of his trip fast approaching, will it be too little, too late? Or will Hunter be open to the greatest gift of all?

Purchase at the following locations:

http://www.amazon.com/

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/

http://www.christianbook.com/

http://www.deepershopping.com/

Biography

Kay Robertson, also known as Miss Kay, is an American television personality, best known for her appearances on the A&E reality series Duck Dynasty.

Biography

Travis Thrasher is the author of over a dozen works of fiction, including Isolation and Ghostwriter. He has been writing since he was in the third grade. His writing is known for its honestly, depth, and surprising twists. Thrasher lives in Chicago with his wife and three daughters. Learn more about Thrasher as www.travisthrasher.com.

My Review ~

I must say that I wasn't sure what I was going to find when I chose to read A Robertson Family Christmas. I haven't followed their television program, aside from watching a couple of episodes. This book changed the way I originally perceived this family and their somewhat "atypical" lifestyle. 

Contrary to my first impressions this book enlightened me. I found the Robertson family to be the most loving, compassionate, godly family, generous in sharing of themselves and their good fortune. This fictional book is a pretty realistic portrayal of the Robertsons, and how they live their lives. They are unassuming, faith-filled and represent a closeness that many families will never experience. 

Miss Kay and Travis Thrasher did a remarkable job of weaving this tale of taking in a teen aged boy from a broken home to experience a Robertson family Christmas. The faith and unassuming acceptance that they offered this young man is commendable. Emotions rolled over me as I read this book, shedding a tear here and there, and laughing out loud at some of the antics of the Robertson men! I highly recommend this warmhearted Christmas book. I'm passing my copy on to one of my daughters who is a huge fan of the Robertsons, but I'm going to ask to borrow it back at Christmas next year to enjoy the experience all over again.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher through The Book Club Network's For Readers Only program in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are mine alone, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.

Christmas Treasures

A Collection of Christmas Short Stories

by authors:

Patty Wysong, Linda S. Glaz, Christina Rich, Karen Wingate, Karen Campbell Prough, Karla Akins, Donna Hubbard Scofield, Elaine Stock, Karlene Jacobsen, Joanne Sher, Kathleen Rouser, April Strauch, Anne Garboczi Evans, Susan F. Craft.

4.0 out of 5 stars Warmhearted Christmas Tales

Description

Heartwarming stories of Christmas that will become favorites to read year after year. Join us for stroll through America, yesterday and today, where hearts are joined at Christmas time.

Purchase at:

http://www.amazon.com/

My Review ~

Christmas Treasures is a compilation of numerous short Christmas stories written by a wide variety of authors. The topics vary as much as the authors, and there is something for everyone in this collection of brief reads. This is a sweet ebook to have available on your electronic reader for those times when you're relaxing with a cup of your favorite beverage. During this hectic season of gatherings and planning, shopping and wrapping, it's a nice little break to sit down and read a tale or two from this Christmas collection.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this ebook free from Amazon with no expectations for a review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.

Wanda E Brunstetter's 

"The Simple Life Devotional," Devotional Thoughts from Amish Country

5.0 out of 5 stars A very special book

Description

There are lessons to be learned in Amish country, if we’ll only take the time to hear them. Come along for a look at The Simple Life, with 60 true-to-life Amish stories, and 60 delicious Amish recipes.A hard-backed version with color photos.

Purchase at the following locations:

http://www.amazon.com/

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/

http://www.christianbook.com/

http://www.deepershopping.com/

Biography

Wanda Brunstetter is an award-winning romance novelist who has led millions of readers to lose their heart in the Amish life. She is the author of over 60 books with more than 7 million copies sold. Many of her books have landed on the top bestseller lists, including the New York Times, USA Today, Publisher's Weekly, CBA, ECPA, and CBD. Wanda is considered one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre, and her work has been covered by national publications, including Time Magazine and USA Today.

Wanda's fascination with the Amish culture developed when she met her husband, Richard, who grew up in a Mennonite church, and whose family has a Pennsylvania Dutch heritage. Meeting her new Mennonite sister-in-laws caused Wanda to yearn for the simpler life. In their travels, she and her husband have become close friends with many Amish people across America. Wanda's desire to explore their culture increased when she discovered that her great-great grandparents were part of the Anabaptist faith.

All of Wanda's novels are based on personal research intended to accurately portray the Amish way of life. Many of her books are well-read and trusted by the Amish, who credit her for giving readers a deeper understanding of the people and their customs.

Wanda's primary attraction to the Amish is their desire to live a devout Christian life that strives to honor God, work hard, and maintain close family ties. Whenever she visits her Amish friends, Wanda finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and close family ties, which is in stark contrast to the chaos and busyness that plagues so many modern "Englishers." Time and time again, Wanda loses her heart in the Amish life, and she hopes her readers will, too. For more information, visit: www.WandaBrunstetter.com

https://www.facebook.com/WandaBrunstetterFans

My Review ~ 

Wanda E. Brunstetter has an abundance of knowledge regarding the Amish culture, beliefs and customs. She and her husband, Richard, share numerous Amish friendships throughout the Amish communities around the country. This devotional is beautifully crafted. Each entry begins with scripture and a daily lesson gleaned from an Amish friend, followed by "Food for Thought," an Amish recipe to enjoy. These lessons are intended to assist in slowing down our lives in order to enjoy the simpler way of life. 

This book also features beautiful photography of the Amish countryside all across the country. These photographs were taken by Wanda's husband, Richard, who possesses a wonderful penchant for the beauty throughout these Amish communities. This very special devotional would make a lovely gift for a family member or friend. The contents are filled with enjoyable lessons about Amish life, and mouth-watering recipes you're sure to enjoy. 

Also included on the back cover of this book is a lovely bookmark to be used with this devotional or any book you happen to be reading. I cherish this book, and highly recommend it!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author and Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.

"Becoming Bea"

The Courtships of Lancaster County #4 

by Leslie Gould

 Another great tale in this series!

Description

Inspired by “Much Ado About Nothing”

Can Bea and Ben Turn Rivalry Into Romance?
Beatrice Zook knows God wants her to learn patience toward others. When assisting a family overwhelmed by triplets proves surprisingly successful, her confidence in dealing with others, both young and old, grows.

One person she’ll never be able to find peace with though is Ben Rupp. They’ve known each other forever, and Ben understands precisely how to antagonize her. What neither she nor Ben will admit is that beneath all their bickering, attraction awaits. When friends decide to try and bring the couple together, will the pair be able to find true love? Or will they damage their relationship beyond repair?

Purchase at the following locations:

http://www.amazon.com/

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/

http://www.christianbook.com/

http://www.deepershopping.com/

Biography

Leslie Gould is the bestselling author of The Courtships of Lancaster County series and The Amish Midwife and The Amish Nanny, coauthored with Mindy Starns Clark. She holds an MFA in creative writing from Portland State University and has taught fiction writing at Multnomah University as an adjunct professor. She resides with her husband and four children in Portland, Oregon. Learn more at www.lesliegould.com.

https://www.facebook.com/lesliegouldauthor

My Review ~

Beatrice Zook has always been somewhat strong-willed and standoffish with her peers, but she is not ready to be whisked off to Montana, far from her roots in Lancaster County. A lifelong sparring match ensued between Beatrice and Ben Rupp over the years as the two competed against each other in their school spelling bees. The sparring continues even though Bea knows it's prideful to have the last say. Marriage has never been an option where Bea is concerned. No one measures up to her high standards.  As she attempts to overcome her bad habits she finds that change is much less difficult while working with an Amish couple with newborn triplets. Her entire outlook changes as she discovers herself more competent and compassionate than she ever thought possible. It seems that love is in the air for everyone but her, but is there anyone capable of making her happy?

I've thoroughly enjoyed the books in this series by Leslie Gould. Her information pertaining to the Lancaster Amish culture is well researched and delineated in "Becoming Bea." The characters throughout this story exemplify believable traits and characteristics that add a great deal of  interest and variety throughout this story of multiple characters. Personality conflicts as well as new friendships and family dynamics are strong features that surface through difficult days and nights spent keeping up with newborn triplets and a multiplicity of other characters and events. "Becoming Bea" will make you laugh, bring you to tears and cause you to reflect on your own attitude about life. Grab a copy and enjoy the evolving drama as it escalates throughout this great story! You're sure to enjoy it!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.

"A Shenandoah Christmas"

by Lisa Belcastro

 The true spirit of Christmas

Description

Andrew Roberts has picked out the perfect Christmas present–an engagement ring. His Christmas wish is to marry the woman he loves. There’s only one catch – Allyson Flanders suddenly has plans that do not include Andy. Will Allyson and Andy celebrate Christmas together? Spend the holidays on Martha’s Vineyard with the Roberts family, celebrating love, family, and faith.

Read Chapter 1
Glimpse of Passion

Purchase at the following location:

http://www.amazon.com/

Biography

Lisa Belcastro lives with her family on Martha’s Vineyard. Her inspiration for the Winds of Change trilogy and A Shenandoah Christmas came while she was chaperoning two Tisbury School summer sails with her daughter, Kayla, aboard the schooner Shenandoah. The weeklong adventure, sans electricity, Game Boys, iPods and modern conveniences, kindled her imagination to dream of an altogether different voyage. In addition to writing Shenandoah Nights, Shenandoah Crossings, Shenandoah Dreams, and A Shenandoah Christmas, Lisa currently pens the cuisine column for Vineyard Style Magazine. She has worked as a staff and freelance reporter and photographer for the Chronicle of the Horse and as assistant editor at the Blue Ridge Leader. She has written articles for USA Today, Dressage (London), USA WEEKEND Magazine, the Blue Ridge Leader and Sidelines. When she’s not at her desk working on A Dream for Love, the first novel in the upcoming (im)Possible Dreams trilogy, Lisa is volunteering at her daughter’s school, serving in her church community, planting and weeding her numerous gardens, running marathons with TEAM 413, training for her first fifty-mile road race, or enjoying a prayer walk along the beach, looking for sea glass.

http://lisabelcastro.com/

https://www.facebook.com/belcastrolisa

My Review ~

This is a beautiful Christmas novella based on the Roberts family from Lisa Belcastro's Winds of Change series. Lisa has brought to light the beauty and spiritual importance of the true meaning of Christmas. 

In this brief narrative the members of the Roberts family not only celebrate the birth of Christ, and God's infinite love, but share examples of the importance of unconditional love in all circumstances,  

Although brief, "A Shenandoah Christmas" is expressive and inspirational, spiritually rich in love, and truly a celebration of Christmas. Also included are the first chapters from each of the three books in the Winds of Change series. This book would make a wonderful gift! Pick up several copies, one for yourself, and others for friends and family. This book can be enjoyed in an evening.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.