My New Favorite Author: Jody Hedlund

I blogged over at BooklyBooks.com today that my all-time favorite author is Lori Wick - but she hasn't released any new books in years, and most of her books aren't even in print anymore. So I had to start reading books by... *gulp* other authors. It was scary - and sometimes still is. But I've found a new favorite author.

Jody Hedlund writes historical fiction at its finest. She has 5 books available right now - and more on the way. One of my favorite parts of each of Jody's books is the author's note. These books aren't just set in a historical time period, many of them are based off real people from history.

John Adams, John Bunyan, Marcus Whitman - these are all famous men from history that are the heros in some of Hedlunds book. When you read the author's note at the end, you get to discover who you're reading about and which parts of the book were true, and which ones weren't. 

They are like little history lessons in the funnest package ever! I've often wondered if this is because Hedlund homeschools...  

I actually first discovered Jody through her blog. Then I won a copy of her second book, The Doctor's Lady from a giveaway. I promptly bought her first book once I'd finished it (the day after it arrived). Jody's books aren't short - but they are gripping and hard to put down.  

I've listed her books below with a short review of each one:

The Preacher's Bride

This novel is set in a puritan community in England in the 1650s. Hedlund gives you a glimpse at what life was really like for them. Life wasn't easy for the traveling preacher, or the young woman who stepped up to help out with his children - but this novel will have you rooting for them every step of the way.

The Doctor's Lady

Hedlund started this book with the historical account of the first two american women to cross the continental divide and creatively weaved fact and fiction into this captivating novel. The characters weren't always likable - but they were real. When reading the book, I felt their feelings deep in my soul. This is true historical fiction.

Unending Devotion

Unlike Jody's other books, this one isn't based off real people, but instead took on a real problem. Human trafficking. This historical romance exposes it for what it is in a way that is as tactful as possible. Set in 1883 Michigan, this book weaves romance and sibling devotion in a way I've never seen before. It's hard to write books that haven't been written before - but Hedlund nails it yet again.

A Noble Groom

Hedlund's 4th book doesn't disappoint. Set in 1881 in Michigan, this novel takes place in a small german community and tells the tale of a nobleman hiding as a farmer. The only disappointing thing? It's only 369 pages and I finished it in under 24 hours. I could hardly put it down!

Rebellious Heart

Jody's most recent book was her best yet! Weaving the story of one historic couple with other events from the time period, this book was historical fiction at its finest. In 1763, Susannah Smith longs for the education that she's denied because she's female. Ben Ross is a poor farm boy and lawyer who's battling injustice. Their worlds collide and history is made. While you're deep within the pages, you'll pick up on some of the horrors of the time period, while the true heros rise to the surface.

I own all five - they rock. I have contemplated donating them to the library... but I'm a book hoarder when it comes to books that I like - and I REALLY like these! You can learn more about Jody by visiting her website at: http://jodyhedlund.com/ or on her Amazon Author page here.

Today, I'm linking up with the Reader's Favorite Blog Hop going on over at BooklyBooks. 

Do you have a favorite author? 

We'd love for you to share with us. 

Hop on over and link up at: 

http://www.booklybooks.com/whos-your-favorite-author/

Sweet, Sweet Iced Tea

I just recently started reading this devotional book. I don't know when I got it, I just found it on my Kindle... but I am loving it! 

I was actually a little put off by the title, I thought it might be... well, to be blunt - just another Christian trying to make money from their faith. That sound harsh, but sadly I've seen it all too often. When writing becomes more about making money than it is about sharing God's word. Where the author shares opinion but doesn't convey God's love or His Word. I've started a lot of books like that and never finished them. Essentially,  the author published a book instead of writing a blog - and then charged way too much for the unedited thoughts. As an author, that's hard for me to admit, because I've stooped there before - but God always brings me back. It's the reason that I give away all of my books for free in one form or another when asked - even the non-Christian ones (I also write about book publishing and marketing).  But this book wasn't like that - and I probably got it on a free day.

What this book has been is simply AMAZING! I did just start it, but all the readings that I've read have said right what I needed, right when I needed it. It's feeding my soul - and most importantly, each short (very short) devotional is followed by a set of Scriptures to look up in your Bible. That's my favorite part - to have God's Word reinforce the lesson and speak to my soul. 

Here's the description of this book from Amazon: 

In the South, nothing is more refreshing than a glass of sweet iced tea. Nothing, that is, except experiencing God in those small, everyday moments. God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea is a deeply personal collection of spiritual treasures designed to help readers experience new mercies each morning. Seasoned with insight and grace, this tender devotional points to the divine presence of God in everyday moments. Whether purchased as a personal resource or given as a heartfelt gift, God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea will help readers develop a daily habit of turning to God in those quiet moments of reflection.

The progression of this book is perfect - it doesn't jump from topic to topic, but helps you grow from day to day. I really believe that any Christian would benefit from this devotional, but it does seem to be written with women in mind. It's available on Amazon.com for just 3 bucks - and well worth it! But I also found that this precious author does have a blog that you can follow for free and she does share devotions similar to those in the book there from time to time as well. You visit it here: http://writemomentswithgod.blogspot.com/

Book Review: The Miner's Lady

I'll admit, I went into this book tainted. 

Not too long ago, I read "Distant Dreams" which is a book that Tracie Peterson wrote with Judith Pella - and after that horrible experience, I was determined never to pick up a book by either author again... so much to my horror, "The Miner's Lady" by Tracie Peterson arrived in the mail less than a week later. I had requested a free copy from Bethany House in exchange for an honest review - so I had to read it. 

The positives - unlike, "Distant Dreams" this was a full length novel - with an ending and everything. And as with all of Tracie's books that I've read, it actually had a really good story line. The characters were believable and it was just an all around good story... just not good enough for me to chance another disaster of a book without an ending. Had I read this before "Distant Dreams." I might have given it 5-stars. But the damage has already been done, and this book just didn't make it up to me.

Overall, if you like Tracie Peterson, then you will probably like this book. In fact, if you like Christian Historical Fiction, then this book will probably be a good read for you. I just can't say the same for Tracie's other books.

As stated above, I did receive a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Body Image Lies Women Believe: Free Kindle eBook & $100 Giveaway

By Shelley Hitz and contributing authors

Download on Kindle

FREE two days only: 5/9/13 and 5/10/13

PLUS enter to win a $100 Amazon Gift Card!

About the Book, Body Image Lies Women Believe:

• Are you insecure about your looks?
• Have you ever compared yourself to someone else and found yourself wanting?
• Do complements or put downs determine the image you have of your beauty?

Real Stories of Overcoming Body Image Lies Women Believe with God's Truth

Throughout this book, Christian women share their stories of how they have struggled with body image lies and a distorted view of themselves. However, each of their stories also contains hope - the hope of replacing these lies with God's truth. Our prayer for you is that you find encouragement within these pages and allow Christ to transform you with His truth.

We Are Each Created Unique

God has created each one of us with unique abilities, unique talents and a unique personality. As women we are influencers and God has given us that role and our beauty to share with others. Yet so often we settle for a counterfeit. The enemy has counterfeited our idea of beauty, convincing us to share our beauty with the world in a distorted way. Today that often means that we see our beauty as what we look like on the outside.

What Lies Have You Been Believing?

Join us for the journey of replacing body image lies with truth from God's Word.

Download on Kindle

FREE on 5/9/13 and 5/10/13

Paperback | Large Print | Audiobook

 Shelley Hitz

Shelley Hitz is an award-winning and international best-selling author. Her openness and vulnerability as she shares her own story of hope and healing through her books will inspire and encourage you. Shelley has been ministering alongside her husband, CJ, since 1998. They currently travel and speak to teens and adults around the country. Shelley's main passion is to share God's truth and the freedom in Christ she has found with others. She does this through her books, websites and speaking engagements.


Follow Shelley Hitz Website | Facebook | Twitter  

Enter Below to Win a $100 Amazon Gift Card!

Thank you to our sponsors! The giveaway is sponsored by Staci Stallings, Spirit Filled Kindle, Grace & Faith 4 U and Body and Soul Publishing.


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Excerpt from Psalm 119: Thy Word is a Lamp unto My Feet

By: Deborah H. Bateman

I Have Chosen the Way of Truth

Lesson 4
Psalm 119:25-32

This portion of Scripture in Psalm 119 starts with the Hebrew letter DALETH, which is the fourth letter in the Hebrew alphabet and represents the number 4. It also represents the letter D and means doorway. Hebrew letters not only represent a letter, they represent a word, and a number.

The Psalmist admits that his soul clings to this earth, but asks God to restore him to God's word. He declares his ways and asks God to teach him the statutes of God. He wants to understand God's precepts, so he can talk of His wondrous works. The Psalmist says his soul melts with heaviness and asks God to strengthen him with God'sword. He requests of God to take the habit of lying away from him and help him to walk in the truth of God's word. He has studied the laws of God and wants to walk in the light of them. He asks God to enlarge his heart so he can run in the way of God's commandments. Have you ever had a habit that you knew was against the will of God? The Psalmist had a habit of lying. We should take his example and when we know we are doing something against God's will in our lives ask Him to forgive us and help us to walk in His way. Daily Bible Scripture: Psalm 119:25-32 25 DALETH. My soul cleaveth unto the dust: quicken thou me according to thy word.

26 I have declared my ways, and thou heardest me: teach me thy statutes.
27 Make me to understand the way of thy precepts: so shall I talk of thy wondrous works.
28 My soul melteth for heaviness: strengthen thou me according unto thy word.
29 Remove from me the way of lying: and grant me thy law graciously.
30 I have chosen the way of truth: thy judgments have I laid before me.
31 I have stuck unto thy testimonies: O LORD, put me not to shame.
32 I will run the way of thy commandments, when thou shalt enlarge my heart.

Things to Think About:

• Do you desire to understand God's precepts?
• Do you like to talk about the wondrous works of God?
• Have you ever had a problem with lying as the Psalmist did?
• Do you choose the way of truth?

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father,We thank You for this Scripture in Psalm 119, where the Psalmist reminds us to walk in the truth of Your word. Help us to desire to know and live in the truth. Keep us from choosing the way of lying. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

*gnosticteachings.org/courses/alphabet-of-kabbalah/716-daleth.html

Bio for Deborah H. Bateman

Deborah H. Bateman is a Christian author, publisher, blogger, and website designer. She is the founder of Christian Daily Resources a Christian online ministry, dedicated to “Sharing God’s Word.” She enjoys studying the Bible and sharing it with others. She wrote this book to share with you the importance of hiding God’s Word in your heart. You can connect with Deborah on her author blog at http://DeborahHBateman.com
Facebook: http://facebook.com/DeborahHBateman
Twitter: http://twitter.com/DebBat

Psalm 119: Thy Word is a Lamp unto My Feet is available on Amazon

Unexpected Love - Book Review

Unexpected Love by Julie Zine Coleman is a unique book. Ms. Coleman starts each chapter with a conversation from Scripture where Jesus was talking to a woman, and then she re-tells the story in her own words. After that, she takes readers deeper. The middle portion of each chapter is something that you might expect to read if you were a seminary student studying biblical history - jam-packed with facts, but not much spiritual food. She remedies the lack of spiritual nourishment in the end of the chapter with sections titled: For Today's Woman, Food For Thought, and Journaling.

My favorite chapter in this book was the last one. While I don't relate all that well to Mary Magdalene, I did relate to the "For Today's Woman" section of the chapter  - that tended to be my favorite section consistently throughout the book - though I enjoyed the journaling sections as well.

Overall, I wouldn't count this as a must read book, but I did get a little bit out of it. The introduction was amazing and I wish the rest of the book was up to par with it - that would have made this book a must have for every Christian woman.

* I received this book free in exchange for an honest review.

Book Review: 1000 Days

1,000 Days by Jonathan Falwell was described on Amazon as:

An opportunity to meet Jesus Christ like never before.

Have you ever thought that when Jesus Christ came to earth more than two thousand years ago, he could have simply given us salvation—period!—and never done another single thing? Jesus Christ could have chosen to be born of a virgin, live for 33 years in relative obscurity, die on the cross, be buried, and rise from the dead three days later, and still give us the opportunity for salvation without doing any of the things we read about in the gospels.

Yet there was more.

For three years—roughly 1,000 days—Jesus served in public ministry while on earth. He didn’t need to do this ministry, yet he did anyway, and that’s the key for us. This intentionality implies that there is a lot of information in Scripture that we need to grapple with. We need to understand what Jesus said and did during his 1,000-day public ministry, so we can apply his teachings to our lives today.

What makes these 1000 days of Christ so vitally important?

Jesus’ public ministry was to help us understand what true love is all about—both for God and for other people. When we love God and others first, the rest of life falls into place: our possessions, our ambitions, our hopes and our dreams. Jesus modeled everything he taught, and his invitation is to make his mission our mission too

That being said, I was expecting a book about the ministry of Christ (that the author claims wasn't even needed), but that's not what this book was at all. It talked about a lot of things, but was most certainly not about his 1,000 days of ministry.

The author claims that Jesus didn't NEED to minister while here on earth... well, He didn't need to die for us either. In fact, if He hadn't ministered while on earth, then He wouldn't have been the promised Messiah. He needed those 1,000 days to fulfill the prophesies about Him, but also to show us His love and how He wants us to live. I won't be recommending this book, even though it sounded like it would bring me to a deeper understanding of Christ, that was far from what I got out of it. 

*I did receive my copy free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. 

Guest Post from Deborah Heal

Unclaimed Legacy by Deborah Heal

Abby’s weird computer program is working again. And it comes in handy when they agree to help the Old Dears next door with their family tree. Except Abby and John learn more about one of the ladies’ ancestors than they ever wanted to know. Convicted in 1871 of murder and arson, Reuben Buchanan is a blight on the family’s reputation. But was he really guilty? Abby and John get inside the mind of a murderer to find out. But while they’re rummaging around in the Old Dears’ family history, they discover the truth of God’s promise to bless a thousand generations … and a legacy waiting to be reclaimed.

Unclaimed Legacy is rated 4.25 Stars on Amazon:

“Wow! Unclaimed Legacy is an absolutely fantastic book.”

“This book is beautifully written and extraordinarily fun and exciting to read.”

“This one easily rates a 5 out of 5 stars for me…and I hope it will work its way to the top of the best seller lists for young adults.”

See all the Amazon reviews here.

If you thought the reviews of Unclaimed Legacy (book two) sounded good but you never got around to buying it for your Kindle, good news! Procrastination pays off. Unclaimed Legacy will be

Free for Kindle January 12-16.

But wait! If you order in the next 20 minutes… Just kidding. But I do have a special deal to go along with the upcoming free Kindle days. Order book one in the trilogy, Time and Again from my website for a limited time for only $9.99 (includes shipping). I’ll send your signed copy right out so you can read it before you get book two. Go here to order.

Still not sure? Click here to read chapter one of Time and Again.  

Trusting God When Bad Things Happen - Guest Post

Trusting God When Bad Things Happen

Guest post by Shelley Hitz

My heart continues to be heavy for all those grieving today across our country.  I don’t believe it was a coincidence that I published a book this past week called, “Trusting God When Bad Things Happen.”  And even before the tragedy in Connecticut, I felt led to offer it free on Smashwords this month. 

Trusting God In The Midst of the "Storms" of Life

When bad things happen, what is your reaction? Do you trust God even when you don't understand? 

There was a dark season in my life when it literally felt like an earthquake had occurred. Everything in my life seemed to be falling apart...my family, my finances, our church. And I asked God the simple question, "Why?" This book is the result of my own search for answers. In the end, God gave me illustrations that I will share with you and brought healing to my heart and my distorted view of Him. I was able to trust Him again, even though my circumstances had not changed.

I pray that God uses this short eBook to deeply impact you as well. I have included questions for reflection for you to go through individually or as a group.

"In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I (Jesus) have overcome the world!" - John 16:33 

One Reader’s Response:

"This book has Biblical answers to the 'Why?' we are hearing so much today after the shooting tragedy in Connecticut. Thank you, Shelley, for the timeliness and wisdom." ~Barbara

Download This Book for Free

For anyone interested, you can download the book "Trusting God When Bad Things Happen" FREE this month.

Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/263666

100% Off Coupon Code: HB95F

Expires: January 1, 2013

This book is also available for $0.99 on Kindle http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ALLQW5A

Please feel free to share this book and coupon code with anyone you think could benefit from the topic.

Just a Heads Up

I've been organizing a Christmas Book Sale for the company that I work for. It's going on now, and I knew you would want to know about it - because you're awesome like that. So, here's the scoop:

By visiting our sales page, you can score up to $200 in savings and get over 60 books for free or reduced price. There are both fiction and non-fiction books listed and tons of Christian titles.

After racking up savings on books (or before) you can also enter to win a $25 Amazon Gift Card.

So hop on over and check it out at:
http://bit.ly/ChristmasBookSale

Guest Post: When Dealing with Infidelity

When dealing with infidelity 

by Naty Matos

In Today’s society Christian women are not exempt of dealing with the ugly monster of infidelity. Unfortunately in many Christian homes women have had to deal with the fact that their husbands have shared intimacy with someone else.

Adultery breaks the heart of a woman, especially the one that believes that is living with a man after God’s heart. The first question on a woman’s mind is what did I do wrong? I came to bring you the answer. You did nothing wrong.

Although it is true that in a troubled relationship there are two sides of a story and that both parties shared the responsibility, the final choice to act belongs to the individual. You did not make your spouse cheat, he chose to do that.

I think that’s a liberating thought, as many women blame themselves for the actions of their husbands in this particular. There’s no amount of conversation, intimacy or pleasing that would have made him make a different choice. Yes, those things may have influence his decision, but it was ultimately his decision to act on it. Adultery is not the actual problem; it’s just the symptom to major issues in the relationship that were not addressed on time.

Can a marriage be saved after one commits adultery? Yes, but it takes many of things and both parties need to be willing to work together to achieve it.

• The husband needs to repent for his actions; to God first and to his wife.
• The husband needs to end the adulterous relationship Hebrews 13:4 “Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous.”
• The wife needs to forgive her husband. This is very important. If for the rest of your life you will be bringing the issue up is not going to make the healing process any easier. Yes, it’s not going to be easy and that’s where prayer and counseling will have to help. Remember the word on Ephesians 4:32 “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”
• The husband needs to make amends to his wife. Matthew 5:23-24 “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift”
• The wife needs to find her identity in Christ and her security in him and not her husband. When a woman finds out that her husband has cheated on her; many insecurities arise. Am I attractive enough? Was I intimate enough with him? Am I good enough? It takes a toll on her self-esteem. This is when she needs to remember that she’s not who she thinks she is or who her husband says she is. She is who God says she is.
• They should seek counseling to mend the relationship and deal with the issues that triggered the situation.

In my new novella, “Season’s Greetings for Amelia” our main couple deals with the issue of infidelity. Can this marriage be saved? Find out by getting this intense story for your Kindle just 0.99 cents.

About Naty Matos:

Naty Matos was born in the city of New York. She grew up in the beautiful Island of Puerto Rico and now lives in the city of Atlanta.

She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Clinical Psychology with a Minor in Mass Media Communications and a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling.

Naty writes Christian fiction and non-fiction. She maintains a blog on Christian Living Topics at www.therisingmuse.com

Copyright © The Rising Muse 2012

Book Description

Daisy has the perfect life, beautiful children and a wonderful husband. And Christmas is right around the corner.  Tis the season to be jolly... Or is it?

Daisy's life is flipped upside down by strange letters that are sent to her by her best friend, Amelia. And as her life continues to quickly spiral out of control, she realizes that something BIG is about to happen.  Can she put aside her confusion, hurt, and anger in order to solve a mystery that may have a horrific ending????

Can Daisy's life ever return to normal regardless to whether she does or doesn't?

You can get your copy of Naty's new book by clicking here.

Book Review: Christmas Uncut

I recently had the opportunity to review "Christmas Uncut: What Really Happened and Why It Really Matters..." by Carl Laferton, and I have to say, this was unlike any book I've ever read before.

Starting each chapter with a scene from a children's Christmas play and fun little drawing, this book was written for adults. It looks like it would be cute for kids, but there are certain parts that parents might want to use caution about.

After the cute little rendition of Christmas plays gone bad, the author covers what really happened during that first Christmas season. After he retells the story he gives the reader the verse reference so that they can look it up for themselves if they wish before plunging into the "Why it really matters" section.

I think my absolute favorite part of the book was the closing remarks. Mr. Laferton covered what to do with the information he presented, whether it was all made up, how we could know that Jesus was the Christ, and  the truth of the Resurrection.

All in all, this was a neat little book. You can get yourself a copy on Amazon.com
You might also want to watch the following video:

As I mentioned, I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review from Cross Focused Reviews. You can read what other reviewers had to say at: http://crossfocusedreviews.com/2012/11/christmas-uncut-blog-tour/

Book Review: Courting Cate

In the country outside of Paradise, Pennsylvania  Cate's life is anything but a paradise - but it could be, if only her father wasn't dead set on her finding a husband. Sure, it's the Amish way for women to wed, but there are those who are known to stay single, and that's what Cate has in mind. Besides, if she doesn't have to worry about the tedious jobs that come with being a homemaker, she can focus on her real dreams and interests. Will Cate be granted the life she dreams of, spend life slaving away to please her father, or will her true paradise be found where she least expects it?

You'll have to read "Courting Cate" by Leslie Gould to find out. You can get a copy from Amazon.com, but I got my copy free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review - and honestly, this novel was simply wonderful! I was captivated from the very beginning and finished the rather thick book in just over 24 hours. Where most novels give you insight to more than one character's POV, this one stuck with just one. I liked the simplicity to that. It left me in suspense to what was going on on the other side of things and really helped me relate more to the main character. Leslie Gould did an awesome job with this book.

Oh, and besides this book being awesome, LitFuse publicity is giving away a Kindle Fire on Tuesday. Find out more below:

A retelling of the Taming of the Shrew! Leslie Gould is celebrating the release of Courting Cate with a fun Kindle Fire Giveaway and a Facebook Author Chat Party (11/20)!

One lucky winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• Courting Cate by Leslie Gould

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 19th. Winner will be announced at the "Courting Cate" Author Chat Facebook Party on 11/20. Connect with Leslie, get a sneak peek of her next book, try your hand at an Amish trivia contest, and chat with readers just like you. There will also be gift certificates, books and a Book Club Prize Pack to be won (10 copies for your book club or small group)!

So grab your copy of Courting Cate and join Leslie on the evening of the November 20th for a chance to connect with Leslie and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book - don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 20th!

The Accidental Pharisee: Book Review

The Accidental Pharisee - We're all guilty of it in one way or another at one time or another. I know I am. But what is the accidental pharisee (other than a book by Larry Osborne, of course)?

It's judging other people because they aren't at the same point in life as you. It's that simple. We all grow at different rates, and God works in us in His time not ours, but where does that leave those who are a step down from us on the ladder of holiness? That's what really drove home for me in this book. Mr. Osborne did is an amazing writer, and I almost read this entire book in one sitting - I just had to stop because it was so convicting! It couldn't have came at a better time either. God most certainly used this book in my life, and I think it will do great things for Christ.

The Accidental Pharisee by Larry Osborne is a book that every Christian needs to read!

Here's what the author had to say about it:

 

I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review. You can read what other people had to say at: http://crossfocusedreviews.com/2012/10/accidental-pharisees-blog-tour/

Guest Post from Vicki Tiede

I love being invited into someone’s home for the first time. Having the opportunity to join your blog today is a little like that. I get to meet new people, share a little bit about my book, and hopefully make some new friends. So, thank you, Heather, for inviting me to your home blog.

A friend recently asked, “What makes When Your Husband is Addicted to Pornography different than other books written for women on this subject?” I explained that this book is not meant to give her tools and skills to fix her husband. It is for and about her, not her husband.

When I speak for a women’s conference or retreat, I always share my story. As a result, I meet many women who share their own stories. Too often they tell me that after their husband revealed his addiction, he went to counseling, joined an accountability group, used filtering software … in other words, he did all the “right” things, but she is still hurting, doesn’t trust him, feels betrayed, won’t let him touch her, is angry … There are great books that will help a woman understand her husband’s addiction, but I wrote my book to help her deal with her heart and these issues.

I’m not a counselor, but I am a wife whose heart has been restored after experiencing the betrayal associated with a husband addicted to pornography, and I have a deep love for the Wonderful Counselor. I feel strongly that Jesus is best equipped to tend to a broken heart and offer hope and healing to a woman regardless of her husband’s daily choices about pornography.

A husband’s use of pornography is not about the wife. I hope he has told her this, but I suspect that even if he did, she isn’t sure. She should believe it. Pornography is a selfish act meant to meet his own perceived needs. That means she is not in competition with digitally enhanced images of other women. This is not about her appearance, her sexual availability, or her competence in the bedroom. She does not need to be a size 8, get a tummy tuck, or engage in sexual acts that make her uncomfortable.

I want my reader to know that this is not her fault. In the end, we are all responsible for ourselves and how we walk in obedience to God’s Word—or don’t. She can’t control her husband’s choices. I also want to assure her that Jesus can and will take the broken pieces of her heart and make something beautiful of it. Psalm 147:3 confirms that “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”

When Your Husband is Addicted to Pornography by Vicki Tiede from FREEDOM BEGINS HERE on Vimeo.

If we believe the statistics, 50-70% of Christian men are struggling with pornography. As I said on the video, it stands to reason then that the women who love them (wives, girlfriends) are also hurting. How has this been handled in your circles of influence? Do people (women) talk about it? Why/Why not?

~~~~~

More about Vicki: I am an author and speaker who has a passion for opening the Scriptures and pointing women to their true source of grace and faithfulness. For the past ten years, I have been honored to speak for numerous women at conferences, retreats, and women’s events. I am the author of three books including When Your Husband is Addicted to Pornography (2012), Plug Me In and Let Me Charge Overnight (2009), and Parenting on Your Knees: Prayers and Practical Guidance for the Preschool Years (coming January 2013). I live in Rochester, Minnesota, with my husband Mike, daughter, and two sons. Visit her on the web.

You can access Sample Chapters from When Your Husband is Addicted to Pornography: Healing Your Wounded Heart by clicking above.

  

Links to buy the book:

Vicki Tiede 

NGP 

Amazon 

Barnes and Noble (BN’s processing times are lagging, but it will eventually be available there as well)

Nook

CBD  

The Trouble with Cowboys - Review and Announcement

I'm thrilled that I had the opportunity to review Denise Hunter's new book, "The Trouble with Cowboys." This is the third in her "A Big Sky Romance" series and featured a skeptical dark haired horse trainer/author who needed help with her new column. Not sure where to turn, she strikes a deal with a local cowboy who needs help with his horse - training in exchange for help answering her letters. It sounds like a pretty good deal, but not everyone is so sure about the time they spend together or the content of her column. Will everything work out in the end, or will both of them end up worse off than before? You'll have to read the book to find out.

This is one of those books that is just plain hard to put down. From the first page I was hooked and read through it in one sitting (even if I did stay up until 3 in the morning). While this book fits in the classic pet peeve category of mine that the girl on the cover doesn't even have the same black hair as the girl in the story, the writing more than makes up for that flaw (which really is a giant pet peeve of mine... did I mention that?). My heart was touched by the characters. Whether they made me angry, happy, or brought on tears, I could totally relate to what they were going through. I totally enjoyed every moment of this book, and will forever remember some of the catchy comments made by the characters. 

I loved this book! It was the first of Denise Hunter's books that I had read and I can't wait to read more. The tidbits that she shared from the previous books in the series made me want to read them so I could hear the full story, and with her believable and well written story line, I imagine that every book she writes is well worth reading.

*Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from LitFuse Publicity in exchange for an honest review. You can learn more about this book and read what other reviewers had to say at: http://litfusegroup.com/campaigns/the-trouble-with-cowboys-by-denise-hunter-facebook-party-and-blog-tour

Meet Denise: 

Denise lives in Indiana with her husband Kevin and their three sons. In 1996, Denise began her first book, a Christian romance novel, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she’s been writing ever since. Her books often contain a strong romantic element, and her husband Kevin says he provides all her romantic material, but Denise insists a good imagination helps too!

Find out more about Denise at http://www.denisehunterbooks.com/.

To celebrate the release of The Trouble with Cowboys Denise is hosting a fun Author Chat Party on Facebook. She'll connect with readers and give away some amazing prizes - including a Kindle Fire! 
Save the Date for October 11th!

Grab your copy of Denise Hunter's latest book and join her for an Author Chat Party on October 11th at 8:00 PM EST (that’s 7:00 Central, 6:00 MST, & 5:00 PST)! Haven't read The Trouble with Cowboys yet? That's okay, don't let that stop you from coming to the party! (You may win a copy!)

During the evening she’ll be sharing the story behind the book, posting discussion questions, testing your trivia skills, and of course, there will be plenty of chatting and fun giveaways – books, gift certificates and – a Kindle Fire! She’ll also be giving you a sneak peek of her next book too!

RSVP today and then come back on the 11th … and bring your friends!

Review: The Shorter Catechism Activity Book

I recently had the opportunity to review Marianne Ross's new activity book: The Shorter Catechism Activity Book. I was really interested in this book as a way to help teach my children about God's Word and the Christian faith. Here's the description of the book from Amazon:

This book uses the puzzle formats children are familiar with in school such as word searches; crossword puzzles and codes. It’s a fun way to work through the Westminster Shorter Catechism – one of the church’s statements of faith. Not only will they enjoy completing these work sheets; the truths that are presented here will be a strong foundation for their future life. The shorter catechism covers the following important doctrines: God; Sin; Christ; The Ten Commandments; Baptism; The Lord’s Supper and The Lord's prayer.

In my own words, this book is the Westminster Shorter Catechism laid out in puzzle form. In order to find out the first part of the catechism, you first have to solve the puzzle. Then it gives you a suggested Bible reading to accompany what you learned. There is no answer key, so unless you already have a copy of the catechism you just have to double check your work and make sure it makes sense. I think this is a fabulous tool for teaching kids about God's Word - especially if they are already into this stuff. If you were working on memorizing the catechism with your children, this would be a great way to introduce each reading.

Again, I did receive my copy free in exchange for an honest review from Cross Focused Reviews - however, I'm thinking about purchasing a second copy so that each of my boys have one - or, I might just keep it for myself as I love puzzles... You can get a copy for your child (or yourself) on Amazon.com.

Book Review: Over the Edge

It's my mom's birthday today! Happy birthday, Mom!


I've been devouring fiction books recently, and I was totally excited when I heard about the opportunity to review Mary Connealy's book, "Over the Edge." It's the third book in her Kincaid Brides series, but the first book of hers that I have ever read. Before I get onto my review, I'll give you a quick breakdown of the book:

Is it possible to sell one's soul to the devil without remembering, or even being aware? Seth Kincaid believes so, and that's probably why he's forgotten that he was married to the beautiful Callie Kincaid. What's their story and will his spit-fire wife ever be able to forgive him for abandoning her? You'd have to read the book to find out.


As I said, this is the first of Mary Connealy's books that I've read, so maybe it would have been better to read the others first as this is the third in this series, but to me it came across to me as crazy, crazy and more crazy. Crazy people being mad at other crazy people for being crazy... kind of crazy in my opinion. It was still a quick read, and it was pretty easy to get into - it was just pretty crazy. There might have been a few sane people tucked away in the beginning pages, but none of them stuck around. Like I said, it probably makes more sense to those who read the previous books and knew the characters better. I might even see if I can find any of the previous books in the series at the library to read, but I wouldn't spend any money on them.
 
As mentioned above, I received this book free in exchange for an honest review from Litfuse Publicity. You can read what other bloggers thought of this book by visiting their tour page for "Over the Edge" at the following link: http://litfusegroup.com/blogtours/13525530/overtheedge 


About the Author:


Mary Connealy writes fun and lively "romantic comedy with cowboys" for the inspirational market. She is the author of the successful Lassoed in Texas, Montana Marriages, and Sophie's Daughters series, and her novel Calico Canyon was nominated for a Christy Award. She lives on a ranch in eastern Nebraska with her husband, Ivan, and has four grown daughters.


Visit her on her Web site maryconnealy.com

Celebrate with Mary by entering to win a Nook Color with GlowLight!

One winner will receive:

• A Nook Color with GlowLight
• The entire set of Mary Connealy's The Kincaid Brides series

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on August 28th. Winner will be announced at the "Over the Edge" Author Chat Facebook Party on 8/29. Meet Mary, get a sneak peek of her next book, try your hand at a trivia contest, and more. There will also be gift certificates, books and a Book Club Prize Pack to be won (10 copies for your book club or small group.)!

So grab your copy of Over the Edge and join Mary on the evening of the August 29th for a chance to connect with her and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book - don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 29th!