tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24691186546555251622024-03-17T16:10:33.234-07:00Inspired By FictionRediscovering the Joy of Reading and WritingMegan @ Inspired by Fictionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16702148718234802697noreply@blogger.comBlogger605125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2469118654655525162.post-57882830800777860672024-03-17T11:12:00.000-07:002024-03-17T11:12:50.521-07:00Kid in ChiefKids Book Weekend: Post 2<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixVSygXO0SaZsF64AYPXnfgEYzCVEXLNHx3GcaWPL6arYCmynh7IpwDGUm7SvxyRRhAmnZDlnb9Q-hEXuNnuk2AlijZXW-jckEDt25zFsnilsNQUM0HTNClgT-jX2CiZw3TUP0Yp86ZjjC-Z0D8vodR79afO9c0kNPSzDSD4tRbzDy9zECu_B6K7OeRoA/s400/kidchief.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="250" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixVSygXO0SaZsF64AYPXnfgEYzCVEXLNHx3GcaWPL6arYCmynh7IpwDGUm7SvxyRRhAmnZDlnb9Q-hEXuNnuk2AlijZXW-jckEDt25zFsnilsNQUM0HTNClgT-jX2CiZw3TUP0Yp86ZjjC-Z0D8vodR79afO9c0kNPSzDSD4tRbzDy9zECu_B6K7OeRoA/s320/kidchief.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /></div><div>Title: Kid in Chief</div><div>Author: Paul Maguire</div><div>Genre: Kids book, easy reader, early chapter book</div><div>Page Count: 80 pages</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Bobby Barton joins his third grade class on a field trip to Washington DC. While there, Bobby Barton discovers an unknown clause it the constitution, stating that if you beat the President in checkers, you can become the President. Thus starts Bobby's journey to the Presidency. <div><br /></div><div>This was a cute story with an educational aspect that would make it fun to add to an American History class in school. I think kids would enjoy the silly antics of Bobby and have fun imagining what they would do if they suddenly had to power to make laws, and do whatever they wanted. <br /><div><br /></div></div>Megan @ Inspired by Fictionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16702148718234802697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2469118654655525162.post-71417758037731167942024-03-15T13:30:00.000-07:002024-03-15T13:31:06.742-07:00Lulu and the Dog from the Sea<p> Kids book weekend post #1. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibAqTKavc-43IKmG2HXLBj5zNBW6jUHaRyNjZnv_dmhJv0J-gSabqbmpPNCwl7xi_k9h_sTrC2o4XKyP1mZpm-s6jXZBRMGPG2L7ghEdywutyXSOLCHeOMDGZWQmeh2rpDZ0yk2x32cfCxJZvRnThlYWGnknSTdazmaef83ewoavtT_bG80UdFLzw8HWo/s300/11816538.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibAqTKavc-43IKmG2HXLBj5zNBW6jUHaRyNjZnv_dmhJv0J-gSabqbmpPNCwl7xi_k9h_sTrC2o4XKyP1mZpm-s6jXZBRMGPG2L7ghEdywutyXSOLCHeOMDGZWQmeh2rpDZ0yk2x32cfCxJZvRnThlYWGnknSTdazmaef83ewoavtT_bG80UdFLzw8HWo/s1600/11816538.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Title: Lulu and the Dog from the Sea</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Author: Hilary Mckay</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Genre: easy reader, early reader, beginner chapter book</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">page count: 108</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Lulu and Millie are best friends, and each year they go on vacation together. Millie's family pet sit Lulu's many animals, while Millie joins Lulu's family on a trip. This year, they journey to the sea and run into a troublemaking "dog from the sea." Each traveler has a different goal: dad wants to train for a marathon, mom wants to read, Millie wants to fly a kite, and Lulu wants to make friends with the dog. Will they go home satisfied?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">What a cute book! I think kids would love it. It has friendship, pets, and adventure. What more does a young reader need. I would definitely recommend this for those starting to read chapter books. It is a perfect length, easy read that will keep your attention. </div><br /><p><br /><br /></p>Megan @ Inspired by Fictionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16702148718234802697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2469118654655525162.post-91808405253183818352024-03-14T05:30:00.000-07:002024-03-14T05:30:00.245-07:00The Samaritan's Patient: BOOK REVIEW<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAaFeBvwaqzGz4sA65AAMg0CxHNGtnCpHUYTTLeTbbMo3FidpucGy5uNmnK-SBsPHIbciDpOUJZ74nXkqiH_8MzCdsyf_4KRL-cn3ZzLmqVj0-MIZpjaHxQ4TrIprHz5umr9YSywquAYoRYV8lmhlOg-rfe1k7TcHjSKsMPLWm6ennngAonR4pnGx7p94/s851/The-Samaritans-patient.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="851" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAaFeBvwaqzGz4sA65AAMg0CxHNGtnCpHUYTTLeTbbMo3FidpucGy5uNmnK-SBsPHIbciDpOUJZ74nXkqiH_8MzCdsyf_4KRL-cn3ZzLmqVj0-MIZpjaHxQ4TrIprHz5umr9YSywquAYoRYV8lmhlOg-rfe1k7TcHjSKsMPLWm6ennngAonR4pnGx7p94/w400-h148/The-Samaritans-patient.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><br /><h1><span underline="">About the Book</span></h1><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC49klgP1Cz9VY78CcECQSBPb1hRdN3-iWwnkwOwCk8pewyhD5uVlOzBY1db3zoCJj4K3pXvW0lxl0bP15DAUVER8QCo4FZkrIYwDXsEBNgymL4vrImMbICoKGXzOtJBQ4TiClIbZEFdN7NeObpDC9R39_FZVoOMk-DEaI7UA9ZDxWUwaqJWUg8Toy3QQ/s300/TSP_EbookWEB-200x300.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC49klgP1Cz9VY78CcECQSBPb1hRdN3-iWwnkwOwCk8pewyhD5uVlOzBY1db3zoCJj4K3pXvW0lxl0bP15DAUVER8QCo4FZkrIYwDXsEBNgymL4vrImMbICoKGXzOtJBQ4TiClIbZEFdN7NeObpDC9R39_FZVoOMk-DEaI7UA9ZDxWUwaqJWUg8Toy3QQ/s16000/TSP_EbookWEB-200x300.jpg" /></a></p><p><strong>Book: </strong>The Samaritan’s Patient</p><p><strong>Author: </strong>Chevron Ross</p><p><b>Genre: </b>Contemporary Fiction / Teen Christian Fiction</p><p><strong>Release Date: </strong>January 25, 2024</p><p>Teenager Paige Abernathy awakens after a severe beating to find that she suffers from amnesia, and that everyone seems to hate her.</p><p>She has only flashes of memory until the night a grieving parent attacks her in her hospital room. Paige then remembers her role as creator of an online group where members talk about ways to commit suicide.</p><p>After recovering from the beating, Paige embarks on a journey of penance to atone for a disaster born of good intentions. Her odyssey launches her on a mission of mercy and into new danger.</p><p><em>The Samaritan’s Patient</em> is a thought-provoking novel about navigating the treacherous waters of social media.</p><p> </p><pre>Click <a href="”https://amzn.to/42dVOBF”">here</a> to get your copy!</pre><p> </p><h1><span underline="">My Thoughts: </span></h1><p style="text-align: left;"><span underline="">I love the concept behind this novel. Paige starts out as a naive teenager, trying to spread some hope in the world, but her good intentions are used for evil. The consequences impact everyone around her. The story starts with Paige standing on a bridge staring out over the horizon, when she is attacked; and a good Samaritan takes her to the hospital and covers her medical expenses. God takes Paige on a journey that very clearly portrays that He has a purpose for everything and can truly use all things for good. As Paige attempts to make amends for her past, many lives cross her path and are impacted in amazing ways. These lives vary from doctors and hospital administrators to homeless people and prison inmates. There was a chapter or two close to the end that seemed to be used to wrap things up but I felt was unnecessary. Other than that and a couple of little things that pulled me from the story, I thought this was a great book. There were scenes that brought tears to my eyes. Most importantly, the theme/ message were strong, and I will definitely be thinking about them. </span></p><h1><span underline="">About the Author </span></h1><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7_8whxsBhRVdplrEDZuc0LOrlM0n0vtYyV00k4bED5kecl7oVu1sJv4ss21qTD0k-dOOAS15EcileoWXsFtOfMIc96c6y6ie4keXHy4_1Ufj7i_WESRFXoFT22ZXPDAz0jlvvwidP5WgEI6j0rmb1EV1tdE9k5RFU-lhyphenhyphenMeHpRn2JM7nVCQIjPOU4ZIk/s230/Chevron-Ross.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="230" data-original-width="230" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7_8whxsBhRVdplrEDZuc0LOrlM0n0vtYyV00k4bED5kecl7oVu1sJv4ss21qTD0k-dOOAS15EcileoWXsFtOfMIc96c6y6ie4keXHy4_1Ufj7i_WESRFXoFT22ZXPDAz0jlvvwidP5WgEI6j0rmb1EV1tdE9k5RFU-lhyphenhyphenMeHpRn2JM7nVCQIjPOU4ZIk/s1600/Chevron-Ross.jpg" width="230" /></a></p><p><strong>Chevron Ross</strong> is a pseudonym for someone unimportant. He is not a writer, but God keeps putting ideas into his head that somehow turn into stories. If you like them, be sure to offer God a prayer of thanks.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><h1><span underline="">More from Chevron</span></h1><p><strong>Behind the Scenes</strong></p><p>This novel might never have been born had I not seen an interview on PBS with two <em>New York Times </em>writers, Megan Twohey and Gabriel Dance, on December 16, 2021.</p><p>These reporters did an extensive investigation into a website on which subscribers discussed committing suicide and shared methods for doing so. Most visitors to the site were thirty or younger. There were 1.2 million messages. At least forty-five suicides in multiple countries were linked to the site.</p><p>At the time of this broadcast, I had just completed my second novel, <em>The Seven-Day Resurrection,</em> and was wondering what to do next. The PBS interview was so shocking that I could not stop thinking about it. What motive could a person have for encouraging strangers to kill themselves? What could one possibly gain from such an endeavor? And what could provoke someone to throw away the gift of life at such a youthful age?</p><p>Each of my novels has been the result of an inspiration from God. Once He puts an idea into my head, it consumes my imagination until I cannot stop working. As you might imagine from the title, <em>The Samaritan’s Patient </em>is a blend of two stories: the famous parable of Jesus in the Bible, and a young person with good intentions who gets caught up in a social media nightmare.</p><p>God did all the work on this book. He created the character of Paige Abernathy and told me how to build the novel around the circumstances of her personal life—her parents, her friends, and most of all, her Christian faith. He also created the crisis that launches her on a journey of new experiences and personal growth.</p><p>I am amazed and grateful that God would choose someone so ordinary and unaccomplished as myself to do this work. Each novel God has written through me has been a great personal gift, and a reaffirmation that God has a plan for each of us. I pray that <em>The Samaritan’s Patient </em>will be as great a blessing to its readers as it has been to me.</p><h1 style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; clear: both; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 2.0625rem; line-height: 1.27273; margin: 1.69697em 0px 0.848485em; text-align: center; text-rendering: optimizelegibility;"><span style="box-sizing: inherit; text-decoration-line: underline;">Blog Stops</span></h1><h1 center=""><p style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400; margin: 0px 0px 1.75em; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.theloftypages.wordpress.com/" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: currentcolor 0px 1px 0px 0px; box-sizing: inherit; color: lalala; text-decoration-line: none;"><span data-sheets-root="1" data-sheets-userformat="{"2":513,"3":{"1":0},"12":0}" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"The Lofty Pages"}" style="box-sizing: inherit;">The Lofty Pages</span></a>, March 9</p><p style="background-color: transparent; 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box-sizing: inherit; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400; margin: 0px 0px 1.75em; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amybooksy.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: currentcolor 0px 1px 0px 0px; box-sizing: inherit; color: lalala; text-decoration-line: none;"><span data-sheets-root="1" data-sheets-userformat="{"2":4224,"10":2,"15":"Arial"}" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Locks, Hooks and Books"}" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Locks, Hooks and Books</span></a>, March 15</p><p style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400; margin: 0px 0px 1.75em; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.splashesofjoy.wordpress.com/" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: currentcolor 0px 1px 0px 0px; box-sizing: inherit; color: lalala; text-decoration-line: none;"><span data-sheets-root="1" data-sheets-userformat="{"2":4224,"10":2,"15":"arial"}" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Splashes of Joy "}" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Splashes of Joy</span></a>, March 16 (Author Interview)</p><p style="background-color: transparent; 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box-sizing: inherit; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400; margin: 0px 0px 1.75em; text-align: center;"><span data-sheets-root="1" data-sheets-userformat="{"2":4224,"10":2,"15":"Arial"}" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"A Reader’s Brain "}" style="box-sizing: inherit;"><a href="http://areadersbrain.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: currentcolor 0px 1px 0px 0px; box-sizing: inherit; color: #lalala; text-decoration-line: none;">A Reader’s Brain</a></span>, March 20 (Author Interview)</p><p style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400; margin: 0px 0px 1.75em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://truthandgracehomeschoolacademy.wordpress.com/" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: currentcolor 0px 1px 0px 0px; box-sizing: inherit; color: lalala; text-decoration-line: none;"><span data-sheets-root="1" data-sheets-userformat="{"2":513,"3":{"1":0},"12":0}" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy"}" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy</span></a>, March 21</p><p style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400; margin: 0px 0px 1.75em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.artistwriterandstudentohmy.com/" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: currentcolor 0px 1px 0px 0px; box-sizing: inherit; color: lalala; text-decoration-line: none;"><span data-sheets-root="1" data-sheets-userformat="{"2":4224,"10":2,"15":"arial"}" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Artistic Nobody"}" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Artistic Nobody</span></a>, March 22 (Author Interview)</p></h1><h1 center=""><span underline="">Giveaway</span></h1><p center=""><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyrCIFSYh2q2DC-eDPvZGdiJ6a5CxK0xWKQfDzxxfALYsqaPd7cHbTm3oHuQ0-_96Atko6FX3PIAYtBZS0z59AtEV1pP5j-YcvbrXMjvblRBbyCprGYpqqtpD8nR3A1LlBvnjWi3_bFt0Iq5pifc6bBA1JjBtV5QQlWv16L7EOE_0UzjcqDBtH653RN3Q/s940/The%20Samaritan's%20Patient%20Giveaway.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="940" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyrCIFSYh2q2DC-eDPvZGdiJ6a5CxK0xWKQfDzxxfALYsqaPd7cHbTm3oHuQ0-_96Atko6FX3PIAYtBZS0z59AtEV1pP5j-YcvbrXMjvblRBbyCprGYpqqtpD8nR3A1LlBvnjWi3_bFt0Iq5pifc6bBA1JjBtV5QQlWv16L7EOE_0UzjcqDBtH653RN3Q/s320/The%20Samaritan's%20Patient%20Giveaway.png" width="320" /></a></p><p center="">To celebrate his tour, Chevron is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!</p><p center="">Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.</p><p style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 1.75em;"><a href="https://promosimple.com/ps/2a555/the-samaritan-s-patient-celebration-tour-giveaway" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: inherit; color: #lalala; outline: 0px; text-decoration-line: none;">https://promosimple.com/ps/2a555/the-samaritan-s-patient-celebration-tour-giveaway</a></p>Megan @ Inspired by Fictionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16702148718234802697noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2469118654655525162.post-32502737483121976032024-03-09T13:04:00.000-08:002024-03-09T13:04:15.665-08:00Game, Set, Matchmaker: BOOK REVIEW<p>Title: Game, Set, Matchmaker</p><p>Author: Evie Sterling</p><p>Genre: Romance (clean) </p><p>Pg count: 262</p><p>Gemma Lafferty is pursuing her business dream. Her best friend's dad promises some capital to grow the business, with a small catch. She is up for the challenge and travels to Vermont to use her Right Match (matchmaking) system on Parker Manning (her best friend's brother and her first love). Spending time with him brings back memories and feelings. Will her matchmaking system find him the perfect match and future wife? What about her perfect match?</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWv9e3kdqjmOk9L4AMBR57rHahYkqqleswABSpUuB9p7EnpVQRMWWlCumFNppamcUGosQQZQBXfSSwHKaAxIN1xmVz0YGZtwCvuBfiHhyp9vYoOfikPlMqM0G_jv-rO3BsTnOZ6uR7LTVgFOkjDxe7FthZmT0TOXPgYa_ZBfumF7dTvLQWdtyep1R0pcQ/s1500/71ecnxJ41DL._SL1500_.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="938" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWv9e3kdqjmOk9L4AMBR57rHahYkqqleswABSpUuB9p7EnpVQRMWWlCumFNppamcUGosQQZQBXfSSwHKaAxIN1xmVz0YGZtwCvuBfiHhyp9vYoOfikPlMqM0G_jv-rO3BsTnOZ6uR7LTVgFOkjDxe7FthZmT0TOXPgYa_ZBfumF7dTvLQWdtyep1R0pcQ/s320/71ecnxJ41DL._SL1500_.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>I don't read a lot of straight romances. But it was kind of fun to speed through this quick and easy read, like turning on a Hallmark movie just to spread a little joy. This was a clean and sweet, brother of her best friend, second chance love story. Hallmarky but fun. With a dual POV, there were a little too many inner thoughts shared for my taste, but the many "bring a smile to your face" cute scenes brought so much fun to my reading. If you are looking for a light, happy read: this is the one for you. </p>Megan @ Inspired by Fictionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16702148718234802697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2469118654655525162.post-46356440879708181002024-03-08T05:51:00.000-08:002024-03-08T05:51:00.146-08:00Mortal Queens: BOOK REVIEW<p center=""> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixqI_fDmXpwqGVLyne0kQY3cYIp9l9j3-i6_oJC98M-fiwALE85uNWR9vpSCeaNWLmuigm69FI403JViZ0p6zQiVlgHOqqWkVwLagBedpE0Z5o4D00A0OVd3zgNcWnu9MHSWWxe0Xl30kGlmBsxgIb6CIN4QCXoy4QYkjDrxPy-MwwY0YmUCcT5HdecOg/s851/mortal-queens.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="851" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixqI_fDmXpwqGVLyne0kQY3cYIp9l9j3-i6_oJC98M-fiwALE85uNWR9vpSCeaNWLmuigm69FI403JViZ0p6zQiVlgHOqqWkVwLagBedpE0Z5o4D00A0OVd3zgNcWnu9MHSWWxe0Xl30kGlmBsxgIb6CIN4QCXoy4QYkjDrxPy-MwwY0YmUCcT5HdecOg/w640-h237/mortal-queens.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><h1><span underline="">About the Book</span></h1><p><strong></strong></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJvXlaYKY4hHsFFqueQJ1l5GkXfJYqL5mzz-F-Gv5fr5Ef6nCFFKAtc9e93h1SUR3qtl2ihXlwiYqx4qEtnjjIwCoZlUWgQYofLOsJe5T85Fy6TtKK1mObOfNLumyBtigsQad9EyHLWzygztgokQEBGLlS2J39YRO9rBawlbI0MNeLYh00nK14-as-ifw/s300/McCombs-Mortal-Queens-LOW-RES-197x300.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="197" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJvXlaYKY4hHsFFqueQJ1l5GkXfJYqL5mzz-F-Gv5fr5Ef6nCFFKAtc9e93h1SUR3qtl2ihXlwiYqx4qEtnjjIwCoZlUWgQYofLOsJe5T85Fy6TtKK1mObOfNLumyBtigsQad9EyHLWzygztgokQEBGLlS2J39YRO9rBawlbI0MNeLYh00nK14-as-ifw/s1600/McCombs-Mortal-Queens-LOW-RES-197x300.jpg" width="197" /></a></strong></div><p></p><p><strong>Book: </strong>Mortal Queens</p><p><strong>Author: </strong>Victoria McCombs</p><p><b>Genre: </b>YA Fae Fantasy</p><p><strong>Release Date: </strong>February 6, 2023</p><p><strong>They vanish without a trace, disappear into the night… </strong></p><p>Each year on the center island, one girl is chosen to be the next Mortal Queen of the idolized fae. The mortals praise these lucky girls, but their daughters are never seen again.</p><p>The fae realm is eternal night, where disputes are settled by chess matches, power is acquired through the most devious kinds of trickery, and seven illusive kings roam. The fae hide their faces behind masks and guard their glass hearts to keep them from shattering. But beyond the veil of this luxurious paradise, a dark secret simmers, for their Queens have disappeared.</p><p>When aspiring artist Althea is selected, she is desperate to avoid the same mysterious fate. With no one to trust, she conceals messages in paintings and receives anonymous replies from a stranger who slowly reveals the tale of a girl who outwitted the fae. Only if she is clever enough will Althea survive the fate of the Mortal Queens. As long as the king who cannot love does not claim her first.</p><p> </p><h1><span underline="">Review: My Thoughts </span></h1><div><span underline=""><br /></span></div><div><span underline="">I loved this book. I can't wait for the next one! </span></div><div><span underline=""><br /></span></div><div><span underline="">Readers meet Althea immediately prior to the Choosing ceremony, jumping over rooftops with some stolen vegetables from her neighbors garden. Following her and her brothers to the ceremony, her current life situation and her future desires are revealed. Knowing the chances of her dream to be the Mortal Queen are slim, she looks forward to escaping her island home and training as an artist. That doesn't happen because she is choses, just has her dad predicted before she left the house. When she arrives in the fae realm, the beauty is unparalleled, just as described, but nothing else is as she expected. The fae love their queens, but they love their tricks just as much, if not more. Thea does make some friends and alliances with interesting fae, Talen, Odette, King Bastian, his sister Troi, and King Thorn. She discovers some of the secrets of the realm quickly, but others are out of reach. She uses her artwork and her alliances to learn and plan, but most of her plans do not work as desired.</span></div><div><span underline=""> </span></div><div><span underline="">A few of the revelations throughout this book were predictable, but that did not take away from my enjoyment. Many other mysteries are still left open. This was a quick read with quirky characters, unique settings, and interesting problems to solve. There were tense moments of action while I read in suspense to see which way a trick would turn, tender moments of devotion between siblings and friends, and heated moments of a possible budding romance. </span></div><div><span underline=""><br /></span></div><div><span underline="">As a personal preference, I do not love it when a book in a series ends in a cliffhanger. I like it when each book wraps itself up while leaving an opening for more. This one is definitely not complete. After finishing, I have many unanswered questions. I don't know who to trust or what is going to happen next, but I do know I am rooting for Queen Thea and am looking forward to seeing her next steps and where or to whom they lead. When does Book #2 come out?</span></div><div><span underline=""><br /></span></div><div><span underline=""><br /></span></div><pre>Click <a href="”https://amzn.to/3Shrtig”">here</a> to get your copy!</pre><p> </p><h1><span underline=""><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz3f_8S3IEVDMv5AfPSM4LMrQrn3KIZV732HuWzbV_zMUdxkHsrPZY_M-kanvhTVm5peGz5SrZ4ArxeCGM2DMuK-XA-zn0jEFzCLyVwEHIWejEjiBfZQRMa0SsQ4mQXOm9w5tIyfm8WUSczZf6U9uSnBjWsaD8qdJAYsdycUXpVB4q8Ra8yn4mmJWnfr0/s300/McCombs-Victoria-225x300.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="225" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz3f_8S3IEVDMv5AfPSM4LMrQrn3KIZV732HuWzbV_zMUdxkHsrPZY_M-kanvhTVm5peGz5SrZ4ArxeCGM2DMuK-XA-zn0jEFzCLyVwEHIWejEjiBfZQRMa0SsQ4mQXOm9w5tIyfm8WUSczZf6U9uSnBjWsaD8qdJAYsdycUXpVB4q8Ra8yn4mmJWnfr0/s1600/McCombs-Victoria-225x300.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>About the Author </span></h1><br /><p><strong>Victoria McCombs </strong>is the author of YA fantasy books such as <em>The Storyteller’s Daughter </em>and The Royal Rose Chronicles. She lives in Omaha, Nebraska with her husband and three children. Her days are filled with coffee, reading, golfing, board games, and homeschooling the littles.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><h1><span underline="">More from Victoria</span></h1><p>There are several parties thrown in the fae realm, so today I’ll be sharing a party favorite recipe! I’ve had strangers reach out years after a party to ask for this recipe, and it’s so simple to make!</p><p><strong>Cucumber Party Sandwiches</strong></p><p><strong>Ingredients:</strong> One French loaf (the thinner, the better. It will be topped with a cucumber.)</p><p>1-2 cucumbers</p><p>8 oz cream cheese</p><p>½ cup mayo</p><p>1 package dry Italian dressing</p><p>We’d always buy the French loaf in a roll that you bake like crescent rolls, however I’ve struggled to find them recently, so I just buy the premade bread. However you acquire your bread, you’ll want it cooked and sliced into inch thick pieces.</p><p>Cut medium-thick slices of cucumber</p><p>Combine the cream cheese, mayo, and dry Italian dressing.</p><p>Spread the mixture over the bread, then top with cucumber. May garnish with pepper if desired. Done!</p><h1 center=""><span underline="">Blog Stops</span></h1><p style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 1.75em; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.theloftypages.wordpress.com/" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: currentcolor 0px 1px 0px 0px; box-sizing: inherit; text-decoration-line: none;"><span data-sheets-root="1" data-sheets-userformat="{"2":513,"3":{"1":0},"12":0}" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"The Lofty Pages"}" style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #ff00fe;">The Lofty Pages</span></a><span style="color: #1a1a1a;">, </span><span style="color: #f3f3f3;">February 24</span></p><p style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 1.75em; text-align: center;"><a href="http://deana0326.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: currentcolor 0px 1px 0px 0px; box-sizing: inherit; text-decoration-line: none;"><span data-sheets-root="1" data-sheets-userformat="{"2":4224,"10":2,"15":"Arial"}" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Texas Book-aholic"}" style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #ff00fe;">Texas Book-aholic</span></a><span style="color: #1a1a1a;">, </span><span style="color: #f3f3f3;">February 25</span></p><p style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 1.75em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.wishfulendings.com/" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: currentcolor 0px 1px 0px 0px; box-sizing: inherit; text-decoration-line: none;"><span data-sheets-root="1" data-sheets-userformat="{"2":513,"3":{"1":0},"12":0}" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Wishful Endings"}" style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #ff00fe;">Wishful Endings</span></a><span style="color: #1a1a1a;">, </span><span style="color: #f3f3f3;">February 26</span></p><p style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 1.75em; text-align: center;"><a href="http://kid-lit.library-lady.blog/" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: currentcolor 0px 1px 0px 0px; box-sizing: inherit; text-decoration-line: none;"><span data-sheets-root="1" data-sheets-userformat="{"2":513,"3":{"1":0},"12":0}" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Library Lady's Kid Lit"}" style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #ff00fe;">Library Lady’s Kid Lit</span></a><span style="color: #f3f3f3;">, February 27</span></p><p style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 1.75em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://booklooksbylisa.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: currentcolor 0px 1px 0px 0px; box-sizing: inherit; text-decoration-line: none;"><span data-sheets-root="1" data-sheets-userformat="{"2":513,"3":{"1":0},"12":0}" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Book Looks by lisa"}" style="box-sizing: inherit; 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box-sizing: inherit; text-decoration-line: none;"><span data-sheets-root="1" data-sheets-userformat="{"2":4224,"10":2,"15":"Arial"}" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Fiction Book Lover"}" style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #ff00fe;">Fiction Book Lover</span></a><span style="color: #f3f3f3;">, March 6 (Spotlight)</span></p><p style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 1.75em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://exploringthewrittenword.com/" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: currentcolor 0px 1px 0px 0px; box-sizing: inherit; text-decoration-line: none;"><span data-sheets-root="1" data-sheets-userformat="{"2":513,"3":{"1":0},"12":0}" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Exploring the Written Word"}" style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #ff00fe;">Exploring the Written Word</span></a><span style="color: #f3f3f3;">, March 6</span></p><p style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 1.75em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.simpleharvestreads.com/" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: currentcolor 0px 1px 0px 0px; box-sizing: inherit; text-decoration-line: none;"><span data-sheets-root="1" data-sheets-userformat="{"2":513,"3":{"1":0},"12":0}" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Simple Harvest Reads"}" style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #ff00fe;">Simple Harvest Reads</span></a><span style="color: #f3f3f3;">, March 7 (Guest Review from Mindy)</span></p><p style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 1.75em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.guildmaster97.com/" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: currentcolor 0px 1px 0px 0px; box-sizing: inherit; text-decoration-line: none;"><span data-sheets-root="1" data-sheets-userformat="{"2":4224,"10":2,"15":"arial"}" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Guild Master"}" style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #ff00fe;">Guild Master</span></a><span style="color: #f3f3f3;">, March 8 (Spotlight)</span></p><p style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 1.75em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://inspiredbyfiction.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: currentcolor 0px 1px 0px 0px; box-sizing: inherit; text-decoration-line: none;"><span data-sheets-root="1" data-sheets-userformat="{"2":513,"3":{"1":0},"12":0}" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Inspired by Fiction"}" style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #ff00fe;">Inspired by Fiction</span></a><span style="color: #f3f3f3;">, March 8</span></p><h1 center=""><span underline="">Giveaway</span></h1><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDXPccvHIqB8JFt7jqXvxfahfp4_4xXFvfiDZnyMt1TkJeleui0IppVZWp-v_QY0Z-8LLDYpjttTJZCtwSvAlJijqhHj8drH5UaBLlkR4oEXWCYHl44MhDUWm1QtE-T4pHivN6y6Z0itXvXo_ZWr4HEqxgVPtELfdxTlgSEmaV6XUnPZix01eMp-t7GEc/s940/Mortal%20Queens%20Giveaway.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="940" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDXPccvHIqB8JFt7jqXvxfahfp4_4xXFvfiDZnyMt1TkJeleui0IppVZWp-v_QY0Z-8LLDYpjttTJZCtwSvAlJijqhHj8drH5UaBLlkR4oEXWCYHl44MhDUWm1QtE-T4pHivN6y6Z0itXvXo_ZWr4HEqxgVPtELfdxTlgSEmaV6XUnPZix01eMp-t7GEc/s320/Mortal%20Queens%20Giveaway.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p center=""><br /></p><p center="">To celebrate her tour, Victoria is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!</p><p center="">Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.</p><p center=""><a href="https://promosimple.com/ps/2a259/mortal-queens-celebration-tour-giveaway" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: inherit; color: #686868; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; outline: 0px; text-decoration-line: none;">https://promosimple.com/ps/2a259/mortal-queens-celebration-tour-giveaway</a></p>Megan @ Inspired by Fictionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16702148718234802697noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2469118654655525162.post-61190881073435707212024-03-06T03:57:00.000-08:002024-03-09T12:32:50.256-08:00Mapmaker's Secret: BOOK REVIEW<p> Title: The Mapmaker's Secret</p><p>Author: Jennifer Mistmorgan</p><p>Genre: Historical Fiction (WW2), Christian Fiction</p><p>Pg count: 333<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid8r2KKCrIBBi_7KLyIuCixAEJY0EzvsLxYpQm7coIWpBj-IniPQ0M8vUo_wqllweVRfYhnDqkTJ0XnGc7KkLJ2eovLNAFBLPOWoOo7GgdU9mkxK3ks1ZdTVzE3c3vFw-fOzKEiRcC-lf1et4KahcdWpKjRH5TJyqg89b5G3EjdH7PRflqKa-c04G_210/s640/mapmaker.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid8r2KKCrIBBi_7KLyIuCixAEJY0EzvsLxYpQm7coIWpBj-IniPQ0M8vUo_wqllweVRfYhnDqkTJ0XnGc7KkLJ2eovLNAFBLPOWoOo7GgdU9mkxK3ks1ZdTVzE3c3vFw-fOzKEiRcC-lf1et4KahcdWpKjRH5TJyqg89b5G3EjdH7PRflqKa-c04G_210/s320/mapmaker.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1943 England. The home of Grace Deroy has been taken over by the military and turned into a mapmaking/ checking facility for the air forces, renamed Bartondale. Grace moves into the caretaker's cottage and works for the facility, hoping to keep an eye on her family's things. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In the meantime, after Jack Marsden's wife dies in childbirth, he steps away from medicine, and at the start of the war contributes by using the skills of mapmaking he learned from his dad. With those skills, he is assigned against his will to become a spy at Bartondale. He is tasked to determine if Grace is working for the Nazi's and releasing confidential materials. Jack knows he is not the person for the job, and when he meets Grace this is reaffirmed by his growing feelings for Grace. As he gets to know her, he is sure that she is not the guilty party, but who is. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Grace and Jack each have a past that has greatly influenced who they have become, what they do and how they behave. Past heartache has led one toward God, and one away from God. Their current circumstances continue to add trials, betrayals, and fear. I personally think people/ characters can "fall to fast," and I would have liked to see these characters ease into their feelings a little more. The element of faith is faint but there. The plot moves the novel forward fluidly. Grace and Jack both have interesting backstories, and I appreciated the subplots and minor characters included. I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to readers of clean romance and historical fiction.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> This book releases on March 22, but you can preorder now! </div><p></p>Megan @ Inspired by Fictionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16702148718234802697noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2469118654655525162.post-10896758409571987102024-02-28T06:00:00.000-08:002024-02-28T06:00:00.159-08:00Word of the Week: ENOUGH<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNPa5moJhMnahYe2_UX5LfsE6D9y4cOuATWa8f6h91zhbaHsyB1L0voUMfMNRv6OZfvblR2WdmIZqQoaRypgGcNljFmxcJrZcXw3MoW0pgaP37KgYKD_ljNCunjO-PAHLsXTrWifhMyt6E9C5O0UBlRbexM7eMI2_8gH49ApB0XmtNBQKlLe1XGjpVT-g/s6912/Enough.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="6912" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNPa5moJhMnahYe2_UX5LfsE6D9y4cOuATWa8f6h91zhbaHsyB1L0voUMfMNRv6OZfvblR2WdmIZqQoaRypgGcNljFmxcJrZcXw3MoW0pgaP37KgYKD_ljNCunjO-PAHLsXTrWifhMyt6E9C5O0UBlRbexM7eMI2_8gH49ApB0XmtNBQKlLe1XGjpVT-g/s320/Enough.png" width="320" /></a></div> <b><u>Definition:</u></b> a "determiner" meaning as much or as many as required. <p></p><p><b><u>Synonyms:</u></b> sufficient, adequate, abundant, full, ample. </p><p><br /></p><p><b><u>Scriptures: </u></b></p><p>Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day as enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6: 34</p><p>Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income. This too is meaningless. Ecclesiastes 5: 10</p><p>But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." 2 Corinthians 12: 9</p><p>Phillip said, "Show us the Father, and that will be enough for us." John 14:8</p><p><br /></p><p><b><u>Common Everyday Phrases: </u></b></p><p> That's enough! More than enough. </p><p> No it's not enough. I don't have enough. </p><div style="text-align: left;"><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>Enough, already. Enough is enough. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><u>My Thoughts: </u></b></div><p>Can you ever have enough.... enough books, enough chocolate, enough time, enough wine, enough guacamole, enough sleep, enough sun, enough friends, enough vacation, enough stuff? Don't we always want more?</p><p>What about self-esteem? do you have enough confidence, intelligence, energy, ability, will, etc, etc. </p><p>On my own, I will never be enough. Money by itself is not enough- to bring happiness. Food will not bring endless satisfaction. We will always get hungry, thirsty, needy again.</p><p>Jesus will always be enough. HE is enough for me. I am enough for Him. What a joy to know that and accept that deep inside. I don't need to be more, do more, have more. I have Him. He created me as me, loves me as me, accepts me as me. I am enough. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0fZ-tBR7LJ0?si=vwEVS19K5jX0X-2O" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>Megan @ Inspired by Fictionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16702148718234802697noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2469118654655525162.post-58129621433429551592024-02-27T19:13:00.000-08:002024-02-27T19:15:52.187-08:00The shadow and the Promise: BOOK REVIEW<p><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #f3f3f3;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #f3f3f3;">Title: The Shadow and the Promise</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #f3f3f3;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #f3f3f3;">Author: Marty Machowski</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #f3f3f3;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #f3f3f3;">Genre: Children's, Early Reader, Christian/ Biblical Fiction</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #f3f3f3;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #f3f3f3;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRSH-EBvQ-MJP7ykQuO1zIFbkWmmcWfWoezelzoB3Q5tCuxRqlW8jFbPHWFy06EuJRglce22SgFVsw1hw6fcVulJpNOF5OtkHZR8UiIM7pGahCX-YvMOfsGP-LHBb4Lj4DczDYTSXhMJsM33VMwONj7Hu5P6rNeKPTFrHwwYwXUaW8ExIgyhf1zfnBdRE/s726/shadowpromise.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="726" data-original-width="464" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRSH-EBvQ-MJP7ykQuO1zIFbkWmmcWfWoezelzoB3Q5tCuxRqlW8jFbPHWFy06EuJRglce22SgFVsw1hw6fcVulJpNOF5OtkHZR8UiIM7pGahCX-YvMOfsGP-LHBb4Lj4DczDYTSXhMJsM33VMwONj7Hu5P6rNeKPTFrHwwYwXUaW8ExIgyhf1zfnBdRE/s320/shadowpromise.jpg" width="205" /></a></span></span></div><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #f3f3f3;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #f3f3f3;"><br /></span></span></div><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #f3f3f3;">What a fun little book! This book shares stories throughout both Genesis to Exodus from the eyes of animals. I thought this was a creative and fun way to share Bible stories and Biblical truths to young readers. I really appreciated the Truth Behind the Tales which includes study questions referring back to the Word of God. I could see this book/ series being used for a Sunday school class or Bible school, complete with animal puppets for re-enacting the stories within. </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #f3f3f3;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #f3f3f3;">I think my favorite story was "Are you an Ostrich?" Gabi was such a likeable character, and I can see young readers laughing aloud at her antics. </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #f3f3f3;">In two other stories, the following quotes really stuck out to me and made me think about the application in my own life: </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #f3f3f3;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #f3f3f3;"> <i>"Then I will not turn away...I will watch God's plan unfold (through my master)"</i><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #f3f3f3;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="color: #f3f3f3;">Even when things look dark or hopeless, we should trust His plan and not look away, but look to Him and watch His plan unfold. </span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #f3f3f3;">And: <span> <span> </span><span> </span></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent;"><span><span style="color: #f3f3f3;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent;"><span><span style="color: #f3f3f3;"><i><span> </span><span> </span><span> "Complaining closes your eyes to the blessings around you."</span></i><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent;"><span><span><i><span style="color: #f3f3f3;"><br /></span></i></span></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent;"><span><span><span style="color: #f3f3f3;">I believe this wholeheartedly and often share similar advice to my husband and kids, we have to look for the good (sometimes it's hard to find, but it is always their) because Jesus is our Lord, Savior, friend, protector, etc. The list goes on. </span></span></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent;"><span><span><span style="color: #f3f3f3;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #f3f3f3;">I would absolutely recommend this for young readers and families.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent;"><span><span> </span><br /></span></span></span></div><p></p><p><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent;"><br /></span></span></p><p><br /></p>Megan @ Inspired by Fictionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16702148718234802697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2469118654655525162.post-47768188809426955732024-02-26T09:00:00.000-08:002024-02-26T09:00:00.141-08:00The Boxcar Children Beginning: BOOK REVIEW<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWANJO1Vq41Ddgocc5ghIaZ0Y8Y-UjfEppVWkvb3RQaUWrkUWIIfgLM-ds5KnKkbM-9c6CKB-7Ly6GflAMXj3DVKRLdYq2DjOFQORqiS39t28W8U7F1ml1fdp96YIAOnkyoSmgbc0m5qrUYQlhAgRpwUlP47oqaCWJGyJmGeFcES2UMMZZbUwS3eDdkA0/s1000/bcb.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="688" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWANJO1Vq41Ddgocc5ghIaZ0Y8Y-UjfEppVWkvb3RQaUWrkUWIIfgLM-ds5KnKkbM-9c6CKB-7Ly6GflAMXj3DVKRLdYq2DjOFQORqiS39t28W8U7F1ml1fdp96YIAOnkyoSmgbc0m5qrUYQlhAgRpwUlP47oqaCWJGyJmGeFcES2UMMZZbUwS3eDdkA0/s320/bcb.jpg" width="220" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Title: The Boxcar Children Beginning</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Author: Patricia MacLachlan</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Genre: Historical Fiction, Chapter book, middle grade fiction</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">pg count: 119 pages</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">First, my mom was an elementary teacher for years while growing up. She taught kindergarten, second and third grade. Sarah, Plain and Tall was always one of her favorite books, and I want to give Patricial Maclachlan credit for that! I may just have to dig it out and re-read it for my mom's sake. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I grew up reading The Boxcar Children series by Gertrude Chandler Warner. This prequel was a fun little jump back in time for me. Being reintroduced to Henry, Jessi, Violet, and Benny took me back to the first magical adventure I took with them when I was around 7 years old. MacLachlan introduces us to the children's parents before tragedy hits and they break out on their own. Before they make the wonderful Boxcar into their home, they live on a farm. They are the "best family." The children spend a wonderful summer playing outside, doing chores, making memories and friends, and helping others in the midst of the budding depression. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This was a sweet and quick run down memory lane. The simple writing allows for young early readers to enjoy on their own. There are many silly scenes that are sure to bring a smile to the reader's face, as well as emotional content that will create deep feelings. Kids are sure to love the beginning adventures of these siblings. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Memorable Quote: "My mother said that life is a journey," said Meg. "And we're travelers." at 22% kindle</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Thanks to Netgalley for my ecopy of this book. </div><br /> <p></p>Megan @ Inspired by Fictionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16702148718234802697noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2469118654655525162.post-41429711250839038132024-02-25T14:45:00.000-08:002024-02-25T14:45:51.105-08:00All My Secrets: BOOK REVIEW<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF_ylNUKIGkVB7IHX-B7TRnulKeVmcLZeCKapSmhS9-270Os46Od_yjhKqzpYzOMM5QZyyQ6Op0vr8Vl0tT6czRPBNAseQzwSP6jwHSFz3EMsuRb51XPy9LIPqy99-fAA8h_Y175VZX_sNQWPUa1u0X4ZBcQv-FO5R1ugV5JrtOl3EBPgFqS5i-qxCScI/s400/178836133.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="267" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF_ylNUKIGkVB7IHX-B7TRnulKeVmcLZeCKapSmhS9-270Os46Od_yjhKqzpYzOMM5QZyyQ6Op0vr8Vl0tT6czRPBNAseQzwSP6jwHSFz3EMsuRb51XPy9LIPqy99-fAA8h_Y175VZX_sNQWPUa1u0X4ZBcQv-FO5R1ugV5JrtOl3EBPgFqS5i-qxCScI/s320/178836133.jpg" width="214" /> </a> TITLE: All My Secrets</p><p>AUTHOR: Lynn Austin </p><p>GENRE: Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction</p><p>PGS: 400</p><p>AUDIO: 13 hours and 15 minutes </p><p><br /></p><p>Three generations of women bond while working to figure out their future after Arthur Stanhope III's untimely death and unfortunate will. Junietta Stanhope, mother of Arther the third and wife of Arthur the second is matriarch of the family and head of the Stanhope Charitable Foundation. She recalls and shares her life experiences and encourages the women to look for a life with purpose, not just riches. Sylvia Stanhope, wife of Arthur Stanhope III, cannot lose everything she has ever known again and works to find a way to keep their mansion and current way of life. Adalaide Stanhope, daughter of Arther and Sylvia, loves her mother and Mimi Juni (as she calls Junietta) and is stuck in the middle, confused about her future prospects and decisions. </p><p>These women navigate their current trials while sharing their past ones in a multiple POV, time hop novel that highlights strong women and the struggles women faced in the late 1890s. Each woman, especially of their social standing, is expected to represent their family and live a certain way, act a certain way. Each woman in this narrative, both follows those expectations and pushes against them. Each woman travels through their own journey of self-discovery. Unique women, unique stories, unique purpose, Empowering plot. </p><p>It has been a while since I read Lynn Austin, and I am overjoyed to be reunited to her writing. This book took me on a journey, as I rooted for each woman as she struggled and triumphed. I shook my head when they made their mistakes and wiped a tear at their redemption. All my Secrets is beautifully written with a strong and inspiring message of our power to create our own path: a path that He who created us, set before us. </p><p><b>Scripture this book brought to mind: </b></p><p>Jeremiah 29: 11 " 'For I know the plans I have for you', declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.' "</p><p>Ephesians 2:10 "For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance or us to do." </p><p>And my personal takeaway is to seek His will for my life and not let others dictate the path that I am on. (My mom's favorite verse: Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.")</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgCVAbWd47QyY8OGiQFicTRpfQTqpy-cVgTLttrCyewHrZLaEEGyAImrU9PDnWCz4u-qV1UBZDVy8MzKiMQeNdm5SnsDLfqmR4HDsGMgyNKvHwXA1sQHNy8zmEQtiXt9lRUNFMXZzyN9CurK771x2ZkjL2i1lFUqzZdqxD4dxopJXnc0yoLCfYHvG5irc/s1280/428236500_221469170989324_841160919250797066_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1280" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgCVAbWd47QyY8OGiQFicTRpfQTqpy-cVgTLttrCyewHrZLaEEGyAImrU9PDnWCz4u-qV1UBZDVy8MzKiMQeNdm5SnsDLfqmR4HDsGMgyNKvHwXA1sQHNy8zmEQtiXt9lRUNFMXZzyN9CurK771x2ZkjL2i1lFUqzZdqxD4dxopJXnc0yoLCfYHvG5irc/s320/428236500_221469170989324_841160919250797066_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><p></p>Megan @ Inspired by Fictionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16702148718234802697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2469118654655525162.post-70916216318216169102024-02-21T14:00:00.000-08:002024-02-21T14:00:00.150-08:00Fatal Witness: BOOK REVIEW<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuGMv0rQIij870A315WwBWFV774hWhvRLjmZ588GwccmCkDhk4by_otBfGQomCcJMA2QnRs5heUtsLqi767GGfVEjwZOsblm0Ar5lM8-5rvUZnz-Iow6OHnTVSHmx2OWuFii7LlK0nurWIGKOXHrwsTgGy40pAPc2IEfAGlOM-FOfMmuowl0fBM3EPzoA/s350/fatalwitness.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="226" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuGMv0rQIij870A315WwBWFV774hWhvRLjmZ588GwccmCkDhk4by_otBfGQomCcJMA2QnRs5heUtsLqi767GGfVEjwZOsblm0Ar5lM8-5rvUZnz-Iow6OHnTVSHmx2OWuFii7LlK0nurWIGKOXHrwsTgGy40pAPc2IEfAGlOM-FOfMmuowl0fBM3EPzoA/s320/fatalwitness.jpeg" width="207" /></a></div>Title: Fatal Witness<p></p><p>Series: Pearl River</p><p>Author: Patricia Bradley</p><p>Genre: Suspense</p><p>Pg count: 400 pages</p><p>My Rating: 3 stars</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>Fatal Witness is a fast read, with likable characters and interesting plot. Dani Bennett, talented potter and artist, receives a mysterious phone call from an officer from Pearl Springs Tennessee. Returning that call, starts Dani on a journey that ends in both tragedy and reunion. Dani's parents were murdered 25 years ago, and she saw the killer. The problem is Dani doesn't remember anything before she was 9 years old when she moved to Montana with her Uncle Keith. Dani travels to Pearl Springs, unknowingly triggering a series of events and discoveries. </p><p>I have always liked repressed memory storylines, so I enjoyed the book. There are some awkward scenes and some disjointed dialogue that pulled me away from the story, which is why it received three stars and not four. My favorite aspect of the book is that Dani, the FMC, remembers the scripture shared with her and uses in when feeling afraid. It is one of the scriptures that I am claiming over my family this week as well. Psalm 56: 3 - When I am afraid, I will trust in you. </p><p>The plot included a sweet romance, is quick paced and well resolved. I would recommend this as an easy read with likeable characters and a clean message focusing on clinging to God in fear. </p><p><br /></p><p>Thank you to Revell Reads and Netgalley for my review copy! </p>Megan @ Inspired by Fictionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16702148718234802697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2469118654655525162.post-50507957743121724412024-02-19T05:00:00.000-08:002024-02-20T17:42:41.716-08:00Generational Worry<p> Generational Sin: I am a worrier. I come by it naturally as my mom was a worrier too. This week, I was driving to meet my coworkers for dinner after work when I received a call. It was my oldest son. </p><p></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-size: x-small;">"Mom did (little brother) text you.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-small;"> no, why?</span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-small;">Well, I fell asleep and when I woke up, he was gone. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-small;">He never texts me, (Friends) were supposed to pick him up for youth group. That's what he does every week! He only texts me if there is a change in plans. That's normal for him, so I'm sure he's at youth group now. Is (the dog) there? </span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-small;">Yeah, everything else is fine. Its' just, I was home and didn't hear him leave. So I don't know what happened. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-small;">I am not worried about it, but if you are-- you can text your youth pastor to make sure he is there. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-small;">Ok I will."</span><br /></p></blockquote><p><br /></p><p>Uh oh. Is he creating things to worry about (just like I do). We need to have a chat and a prayer. I know they see my worries, unreasonable fears and anxieties. How can I be a part of breaking this generational sin of worry? I don't want to see my children carry the same unnecessary stress that I do. I need to be intentional about allowing Jesus to write a different story for our family. For me, I need to make and remake a daily commitment to turn to Him, to His Word, and to trust. No matter what trial or fear I am facing, the truth is God is with me. The truth is I have eternity with Him to look forward to. The truth is everything in this life is temporary. He is eternal. I need to stay focused on Him and my worries will fade. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-yx4o5IUYWOchDp_68ZrQ-chZjNgAbG0ddakKVccW2IfnuFmRsV9EALaNnFqev1FLoyUmTWwv_TiXistOQoOap6AtlicSVWy0jnRPZaJXfgKLaLorOxUMBE4ng6pdk2L_ZNgpMmp9WVtVSiuND0UiQOfF6KmYvaxCZIP-BLzDI9g7TLjusvmNvELigoQ/s940/Gray%20Bold%20Typography%20Praying%20Hands%20Facebook%20Post.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="940" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-yx4o5IUYWOchDp_68ZrQ-chZjNgAbG0ddakKVccW2IfnuFmRsV9EALaNnFqev1FLoyUmTWwv_TiXistOQoOap6AtlicSVWy0jnRPZaJXfgKLaLorOxUMBE4ng6pdk2L_ZNgpMmp9WVtVSiuND0UiQOfF6KmYvaxCZIP-BLzDI9g7TLjusvmNvELigoQ/s320/Gray%20Bold%20Typography%20Praying%20Hands%20Facebook%20Post.png" width="320" /></a></div>This week I will pray the following scriptures<p></p><p> over my family. I will share these Words with my husband and children and we will be intentional about Christ first- keeping our eyes on Him and not on our fears or stressors. </p><p><br /></p><p>Zephaniah 3:17</p><p>The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing. </p><p><br /></p><p>Psalm 56: 3-4</p><p>When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trus; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?</p><p><br /></p><p>Philippians 4:6-7</p><p>Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.</p><p><br /></p><p>Joshua 1:9</p><p>Have I not commanded you: Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. </p><p><br /></p><p>John 16:33</p><p>I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome this world. </p>Megan @ Inspired by Fictionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16702148718234802697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2469118654655525162.post-42337278544657165462024-02-12T09:15:00.000-08:002024-02-16T07:23:12.798-08:00Embers in the London Sky: BOOK REVIEW<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkWg3Uti2A5hUIPR8_ynJU93tm94wEry3WDEAtyVKn56OJ1gREPzxjRkHXTgTq-PbH4gwW5h0BNhv59p67IM2Y4ff-otvs_5sAHVsZghJ863d8k5zTww7itm05T8roJa5dzwmS0dqGpKxaMYzxkinrPkP3ViyiTgQ6x3BUaDeLdhRu9yxYdgnPOW0w7PE/s600/rr.embers.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="600" height="107" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkWg3Uti2A5hUIPR8_ynJU93tm94wEry3WDEAtyVKn56OJ1gREPzxjRkHXTgTq-PbH4gwW5h0BNhv59p67IM2Y4ff-otvs_5sAHVsZghJ863d8k5zTww7itm05T8roJa5dzwmS0dqGpKxaMYzxkinrPkP3ViyiTgQ6x3BUaDeLdhRu9yxYdgnPOW0w7PE/s320/rr.embers.png" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Historical fiction is definitely one of my favorite genres and WWII is such an interesting time period. A time of such horror and hate creates a stark background for beautiful and bold stories of hope, love, deliverance (both true and fiction). </div><div><br /></div><div>Title: Embers in the London Sky</div><div><br /></div><div>Author: Sarah Sundin</div><div><br /></div><div>Genre: Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction</div><div><br /></div><div>Pg Ct: 400</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ZOO8K5c8ZmtVOhx-xxAFhqCGoXdqQ6zrcv5yoKs2B3t2P7yTC80bBqkTenqzF_itk8HtmsTbozjNdJaBUhmIHFW6xDUlB-sKvJr9PxX_Hj-cHM5C6gL9bQpxOooa1jNh8W5-8SOqF_1GkM0ATZn066fBbgBiAXnRbMeaMlrrpeG9AhV8SI0QaoMuzx0/s1500/81xA2e+sPxL._SL1500_.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="971" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ZOO8K5c8ZmtVOhx-xxAFhqCGoXdqQ6zrcv5yoKs2B3t2P7yTC80bBqkTenqzF_itk8HtmsTbozjNdJaBUhmIHFW6xDUlB-sKvJr9PxX_Hj-cHM5C6gL9bQpxOooa1jNh8W5-8SOqF_1GkM0ATZn066fBbgBiAXnRbMeaMlrrpeG9AhV8SI0QaoMuzx0/s320/81xA2e+sPxL._SL1500_.jpg" width="207" /></a></div>Embers in the London Sky shares a picture of the many refugees who flooded England attempting to flee the Nazi occupations throughout Europe. Aleida Martens flees Netherlands. On her way, disaster strikes, resulting in Aleida losing her husband and being separated from her son. In London she finds a job, makes friends, helps with the war effort, and desperately searches for her little Theo.</div><div><br /></div><div>Mrs. Marten meets a number of members of the press, including the famous BBC radio correspondent, Hugh Collingwood. Collingwood recently lost his older brother in the war and is getting pressure from his family to turn to a more fitting career for the Collingwood name. Amidst nightly air raids, terror hits when one close to Hugh is murdered and another disappears. Aleida's co-worker is found dead next, and they start to connect the clues. </div><div><br /></div><div>Murder, intrigue, mystery, and suspense intermingle with a sweet love story. This novel is an easy read with characters who are easy to love, celebrate and mourn with. Their mistakes leave you shaking your head while moving the story forward. Hard decisions are made as you watch them grow in their faith and identity in Christ. Crossing your fingers as you hope for the best, you will flip quickly through the pages to reach the satisfying resolution. </div><div><br /></div><div>I have read at least 4-5 of Sundin's books, including the Wings of the Nightingale series. I am sure I will continue to seek out her books in the future. Find out more about Sarah and her books on <a href="https://www.sarahsundin.com/">her website</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>Thanks to Revell Reads and Netgalley for my review copy. All thoughts shared above are my own. </div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Megan @ Inspired by Fictionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16702148718234802697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2469118654655525162.post-84491774547900800332024-02-11T15:43:00.000-08:002024-02-11T15:43:50.210-08:00Turn your Worries into Hope<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXPFFWwEUUqtX_vkyRDVdrfcFqOThuY5fGKH4ih3lSCSYtQU_UgEd06i5CXjHJz5ru7MuhZryxdcZ4QbVONTWn6sBXViqAJoME10YbUm7nGQITGPZYWw2IhOouMtfLIlNHrM1l4g-CPwWQs02HTOS5V_6sQRNj0PLv5JJyISsBH2jzlQBkF77-Y1YXAqw/s1080/Untitled%20design.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXPFFWwEUUqtX_vkyRDVdrfcFqOThuY5fGKH4ih3lSCSYtQU_UgEd06i5CXjHJz5ru7MuhZryxdcZ4QbVONTWn6sBXViqAJoME10YbUm7nGQITGPZYWw2IhOouMtfLIlNHrM1l4g-CPwWQs02HTOS5V_6sQRNj0PLv5JJyISsBH2jzlQBkF77-Y1YXAqw/s320/Untitled%20design.png" width="320" /></a></div>One night last month, my twelve year old, left for youth group (while I was still at work) in 20 degree weather, no coat, forgetting it was sled riding night. 90 minutes later, I pick him up and see him walking through the snow to the car, in his Slytherin sweatshirt, pink nose and red fingers. He holds them up to the heater, stating "they are so cold, they are hot and as they heat up they're burning." Yep, great. So I, of course, am frustrated asking why he didn't wear a coat, why he was allowed to play in the snow for over an hour without even a coat on, wondering if he was going to get sick and grumbling about responsibility. <p></p><p>My teenagers, especially the boys, do not see risks in everything, like I do. My 16 year old, who has only driven on the road once, thinks he is a fantastic driver and ready for his test already. Neither wear a coat unless I hound them, often they don't carry money with them, they let their phones die, forget to tell me where they are going or when they will be late - And never think about consequences. I on the other hand always worry, what if. </p><p>Is that a part of child-like faith. Is my need to cover all our bases, make my kids wear coats and report locations stem from sinful fears and worries/ lack of trust in God. </p><p>As an expert in trauma, I understand that most of our fears are from past painful learning. Not necessarily from my own experiences, but from new reports, books, and stories of things that have happened to others. I have learned both from my own personal experiences and from the experiences of other what "could" happen. </p><p>We need to be responsible and wise in our actions and decisions, but we also need to trust. My son played outside in freezing weather without a coat. I didn't know until after and at that point there was nothing I could do to change it. He didn't get sick (well, he did but not until after his dad, then I got, sick first!) I need to remember that "could" is not "will." Worry always focuses on what COULD happen, what may happen IF...Worry is the opposite of Hope, and hope is my favorite word. I wish I could say I don't worry, but I do. Sometimes it takes me too long to turn my worries to prayer, to remember the Prayer turns Worry into Hope. Not hope in an outcome, but hope in the One who never leaves me; Hope in the eternity that He has promised me, and hope that even if my worst "could" turns into a reality, His Truth and Love Never Changes. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6K4nQcxSMfJBEnDgFatEV5H74CXS-hkbup2wGVDQz5IlYJ_mlERp8w36thM1O3iGo8PGnGE7y_J5mUckhT0u4VZxniXhgrdCo8VhFtfqrgUsIBldpOugfeQ8OGYs0yStTCcxjN7PiwgRlC-2x4K1eyPFqW5mA85jQMSDk6-4Lrfw7EnuVTPJ8QvdNOi0/s940/Untitled%20design%20(1).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="940" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6K4nQcxSMfJBEnDgFatEV5H74CXS-hkbup2wGVDQz5IlYJ_mlERp8w36thM1O3iGo8PGnGE7y_J5mUckhT0u4VZxniXhgrdCo8VhFtfqrgUsIBldpOugfeQ8OGYs0yStTCcxjN7PiwgRlC-2x4K1eyPFqW5mA85jQMSDk6-4Lrfw7EnuVTPJ8QvdNOi0/s320/Untitled%20design%20(1).png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p></p>Megan @ Inspired by Fictionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16702148718234802697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2469118654655525162.post-42312029971379970502024-02-11T09:00:00.000-08:002024-02-11T09:00:00.136-08:00Favorite Characters: LIST<p></p><b> My favorite characters:</b><p></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Hadassah from Mark of the Lion Trilogy</li><li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7_wUM_X0Xv5ZaBDk6tNDSRConoWkmsLUoGc7lBronapa5rwgypBL2i8PVBVYPo1H5rAVnKwY1Y6P0biOkd2pNIEwU1efyihtVsCYDQ4VGY0F3ay2yZPemXoy18b_er1FZ8M4USlK5Fi1QU74z4-1Lt9AcduahnTr3iIOVJWCqzwjEYz9e7JAZ3guaWkQ/s300/anne.gil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="188" data-original-width="300" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7_wUM_X0Xv5ZaBDk6tNDSRConoWkmsLUoGc7lBronapa5rwgypBL2i8PVBVYPo1H5rAVnKwY1Y6P0biOkd2pNIEwU1efyihtVsCYDQ4VGY0F3ay2yZPemXoy18b_er1FZ8M4USlK5Fi1QU74z4-1Lt9AcduahnTr3iIOVJWCqzwjEYz9e7JAZ3guaWkQ/s1600/anne.gil.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>Anne Shirley and Gilbert Blythe, (and Marilla and Matthew and Rachel) from Anne of Green Gables series</li><li>Jamie and Claire from Outlander series</li><li>Temperance Brennan from Bones</li><li>Shawn and Gus from Psych</li><li>Lorelei and Rory (and Luke and Sookie and Emily and Richard and Paris and...) from Gilmore Girls</li><li>Monk</li><li>Toby, Josh, Donna, CJ, President Bartlet from West Wing</li></ul><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBqjmCMDwoctpXBFzk8ZpzOboDQPOIHeqiv9wlZmpmZyQ6ZtkSGglrLH1mm82MkrXYcbwmLLLnsl6BkcSwNTnbVqrtxwOawSjubC3RXCWn2yUgbkDXbVOXsrfrSbugunO-cZXqfPPgwSajg3noPS5VWbIRX4EiGSKakZ0G7lle1JQ8BX9akrP-rezMC_U/s1080/westwing.webp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBqjmCMDwoctpXBFzk8ZpzOboDQPOIHeqiv9wlZmpmZyQ6ZtkSGglrLH1mm82MkrXYcbwmLLLnsl6BkcSwNTnbVqrtxwOawSjubC3RXCWn2yUgbkDXbVOXsrfrSbugunO-cZXqfPPgwSajg3noPS5VWbIRX4EiGSKakZ0G7lle1JQ8BX9akrP-rezMC_U/s320/westwing.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>Many of these are from TV series. While books are so much better than movies, I think series characters stick with me because they are a part of my life for so much longer: sometimes years watching an entire series! </div><p></p><p>What makes these my favorite characters? How do you choose your favorites? What makes a character successful? I think they have to be unique above all else. All of these characters are quirky, independent and unashamedly their own person. Most have a back story that clearly influence the person they become. Most have interesting and strong relationships. All have specific flaws that make their lives a little more difficult or eventful. </p>Megan @ Inspired by Fictionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16702148718234802697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2469118654655525162.post-58363566839038477222024-02-10T11:30:00.000-08:002024-02-10T11:30:09.724-08:00No One Can Know: BOOK REVIEW<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrfUer-Nu5iK1cc6PMmNP370s7UxiWZYOj1j77X_UdJ0L0QwqCLp6Lh0EcHv-5Sf4ZKiBE10y7bUCTqY0hnarIgMvOxIIRU0Y_OwOtk3SQIBNnCP-tCqFoFrOmFsMO-SsMsDcIZ7egigTv3yEo6gGS3Z3DamY9fp-GaAB3xHsCWS6uXC7Iyw1Ehwe2NpU/s500/127305892.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="331" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrfUer-Nu5iK1cc6PMmNP370s7UxiWZYOj1j77X_UdJ0L0QwqCLp6Lh0EcHv-5Sf4ZKiBE10y7bUCTqY0hnarIgMvOxIIRU0Y_OwOtk3SQIBNnCP-tCqFoFrOmFsMO-SsMsDcIZ7egigTv3yEo6gGS3Z3DamY9fp-GaAB3xHsCWS6uXC7Iyw1Ehwe2NpU/s320/127305892.jpg" width="212" /></a></div></span></div><p></p><p>Title: No One Can Know</p><p>Author: Kate Alice Marshall</p><p>Genre: Psychological thriller, mystery</p><p>Pg Count: 336</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>This book follows three estranged sisters after their parents' murder. Fourteen years have passed, and all three sisters have secrets from that fateful night. Emma returns to her childhood home, where the memories create questions and trials for her and her husband. Juliette, wondering why Emma would return, surprises Emma by showing up at her door. Daphne also returns to their hometown but keeps her presence a secret. With multiple POVs and time hops, the audio set up was perfect for easily following who and when each chapter focused on, and I appreciated that greatly. Which sister has the most to lose or the most to hide? What really happened the night their parents died? And will these women ever be free of their secrets. </p><p>This novel traveled back and forth between sisters and time periods to puzzle together what happened. Marshall created 3 very different women with different motivations and personalities all influenced by the home they grew up in together, the shocking deaths of their parents, and the subsequent trials each faced. I appreciated how these three threads were both greatly varied and intricately intertwined. As I listened to the audio version of this book, I made my guesses. Some were right; some were wrong, and I continuously second guessed myself, which made for an enjoyable ride. </p><p>Thanks to Netgalley for my ARC audio copy! </p>Megan @ Inspired by Fictionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16702148718234802697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2469118654655525162.post-87071671645618160122024-01-29T08:00:00.000-08:002024-01-29T08:00:00.276-08:00The Midnight Library: BOOK REVIEW<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKV14ZGdrklMJKDnPED8zVoyE5aSl__P_h5mAIpSK8zv65fDKQ63pOuLTh30STnUM2CZbvzOnQ-300tgpY0cuoa1xfKYR-F6o0t25BA5g8UERnXQtZ5Cv-xiY0Hs5tw18jj41iOffEJ90EmLK9NuTburQg51BMwhgPEtM52XQHWiv6Rhi45mwq9_GM5Hc/s475/library.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKV14ZGdrklMJKDnPED8zVoyE5aSl__P_h5mAIpSK8zv65fDKQ63pOuLTh30STnUM2CZbvzOnQ-300tgpY0cuoa1xfKYR-F6o0t25BA5g8UERnXQtZ5Cv-xiY0Hs5tw18jj41iOffEJ90EmLK9NuTburQg51BMwhgPEtM52XQHWiv6Rhi45mwq9_GM5Hc/w191-h288/library.jpg" width="191" /></a></div> Title: The Midnight Library<p></p><p>Author: Matt Haig</p><p>Genre: Fantasy, Magical Realism, contemporary</p><p>Page Count: 304<br /></p><p>Trigger Warning: Suicide attempt</p><p><br /></p><p>4.5 stars</p><p><br /></p><p>I like this one. It is such a great idea and deals with the important topic of regrets. I admit to stumbling over the British English at the beginning, phrases like "was sat." Nora Seed has a lot of regrets. She is done with regrets and takes matters into her own hands; however, somewhere in between life and death she finds the Midnight Library and gets to "try on" different lives, different "what ifs." </p><p> This is a fast read, written in quick chapters; and it made me think. For example, what is one "regret" that I might want to explore the possibility. The first thing that came to mind was, that I had a chance to do an internship at the Dolphin Research Institute. In undergrad, I had written a thesis on dolphin assisted therapy that led to my applying, and I got a call back. However, my advisor was out of the country, and I didn't attempt to contact him or another professor for a reference. Thus not really pursuing the opportunity. I wouldn't actually count it as a regret though, and I wouldn't want to trade in my current life for any other alternative. But is interesting to think about how one small decision could change the trajectory of many different people and events. </p><p>Definitely one to add to your TBR, and I may have to explore what else Haig has written! </p>Megan @ Inspired by Fictionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16702148718234802697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2469118654655525162.post-85633974884052232972024-01-27T13:59:00.000-08:002024-01-27T13:59:12.316-08:00The Women<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_IFNAy-91zgNisQS7ouwvm8vGC8lWP9JVW2leYaABckPjA2wr4QVy8X7qqRihFgTwmb9VzcxFIVDaEcwKawDEDGIxzCn-lG7Gcuruou_EH3yGuSOXQPNewKaDO1qoSNrQa3ZCq9qDoHQofejfsEZH4n_7ZAZ59Z4hTHjKB3fKKA13iqLoMqx9jnl1SvI/s608/the%20women.webp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="608" data-original-width="400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_IFNAy-91zgNisQS7ouwvm8vGC8lWP9JVW2leYaABckPjA2wr4QVy8X7qqRihFgTwmb9VzcxFIVDaEcwKawDEDGIxzCn-lG7Gcuruou_EH3yGuSOXQPNewKaDO1qoSNrQa3ZCq9qDoHQofejfsEZH4n_7ZAZ59Z4hTHjKB3fKKA13iqLoMqx9jnl1SvI/s320/the%20women.webp" width="211" /></a></div>Title: The Women<p></p><p>Author: Kristin Hannah</p><p>Genre: historical fiction</p><p>Page Count:</p><p>Trigger Warning: combat, PTSD, adultery, language<br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>This was my second audio of the year, and I do feel like it makes a difference in how I process the book. There were some repetitions in the language that may not have stuck out to me as much had I been reading in my head vs hearing it read aloud. </p><p><i>Slight spoiler included:</i></p><p><b>The Women</b> focuses on First Lieutenant, Frances McGrath, Army nurse, who serves 2 tours in Vietnam. I love that this novel brings light to the brave women of this era that have been often overlooked and forgotten. I also love how the author depicts PTSD. We have learned so much about the trauma response in the last fifty years. Hannah gives a very realistic portrayal that made me think about how much harder dealing with those symptoms would have been when there was very little awareness of what they were experiencing and why. I love the journey that Frankie takes through processing her experiences in Vietnam to discovering herself and her purpose. As mentioned above, there was a little bit of repetitive language, and I personally think it could have ended earlier because our main character had evolved past surviving to a place of thriving in her own identity and purpose. That being said, I do love a joyous ending, and I did appreciate the blessing and possibility given to Frankie (Frances) in the end. </p><p>I think the real strength of this book is in the details. <b>The Women</b> gives its reader a clear depiction of sights, sounds, experiences and emotions of the turbulent late 60s and early 70s. It puts us into the shoes of the under-appreciated nurses of Vietnam who should absolutely be remembered as heroes along with the men who served and sacrificed during this conflict. </p><p>And, I have to give a shout out to the inclusion of occupational therapy (I think it was around 67% in the audio). Not only does the book reference OT, but where Frankie ends up and what she ends up doing is all about the importance of finding occupations (not jobs) but hobbies, relationships and activities with meaning and purpose. </p><p>I would recommend this book AND I do have another Kristin Hannah book on my TBR. I really want to read <b>The Nightingale</b>. Have you read either? What are your thoughts? Or do you have another favorite by her? Let me know. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWbwY4BPJPli5kBPo9Q5ODOg9qy7PX1xMs7h7nlKDEZyu9DjM7RyqNWKAMp5Slne6Mo9HLQWVmT_B6cr53APngo4YsiXjCeiBtxqHPhOoQeoj4AtBeeUnHy8JXE6C4xspbvkC71MFQ93UoRVE0v3CYezTCUxgtqGb5FOEj74RjY-NpI3u9kWtbrY2pQoU/s244/nightingale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="244" data-original-width="184" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWbwY4BPJPli5kBPo9Q5ODOg9qy7PX1xMs7h7nlKDEZyu9DjM7RyqNWKAMp5Slne6Mo9HLQWVmT_B6cr53APngo4YsiXjCeiBtxqHPhOoQeoj4AtBeeUnHy8JXE6C4xspbvkC71MFQ93UoRVE0v3CYezTCUxgtqGb5FOEj74RjY-NpI3u9kWtbrY2pQoU/s1600/nightingale.jpg" width="184" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Megan @ Inspired by Fictionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16702148718234802697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2469118654655525162.post-29938545741130103042024-01-24T05:30:00.000-08:002024-01-24T05:30:00.139-08:00Word of the Week: persnickety<p> First of all, how many of you knew how to spell persnickety? I didn't, I thought it was "ity." I chose this word because I think it's fun. I like the connotation and the way it sounds. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHyebQt5zaEYcDMXhyphenhyphenk3y2Saei8pQLIAZAvBUAhQ_eHUqXx5ZQUo92jcCraEtW-CY49CtSOTSCGPi1FJQREOf5HOyksK2kNUu-ASlsdPnjNEPLZl-ShY7UcF1CigdGquvXGY5okw2q6eW9OgaQl6KQ99l9w9WGAk3igsfCZZQXBItd18G7IiUyPd52rUQ/s1099/ClipartKey_3168363.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1099" data-original-width="738" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHyebQt5zaEYcDMXhyphenhyphenk3y2Saei8pQLIAZAvBUAhQ_eHUqXx5ZQUo92jcCraEtW-CY49CtSOTSCGPi1FJQREOf5HOyksK2kNUu-ASlsdPnjNEPLZl-ShY7UcF1CigdGquvXGY5okw2q6eW9OgaQl6KQ99l9w9WGAk3igsfCZZQXBItd18G7IiUyPd52rUQ/s320/ClipartKey_3168363.png" width="215" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p>Defined as: fussy about small details<br /></p><p><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> having the characteristics of a snob</span><br /></p><p><span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> requiring great precision</span><br /></span></p><p><span><span><br /></span></span></p><p><span><span><br /></span></span></p><p><span><span><br /></span></span></p><p><span><span><br /></span></span></p><p><span><span><br /></span></span></p><p><span><span>Scripture verses: I don't really think any version of the Bible includes the word "persnickety" but if you have come across it (maybe in the Message or something like that) please let me know</span></span></p><p>Quotes:<span face="Verdana, Arial, "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #6a6a6a; font-size: 14.4px;"></span></p><p></p><div style="text-align: left;"><p>I take a ridiculous pleasure in what I eat and drink. It comes partly from being a bachelor, but mostly from a habit of taking a lot of trouble over details. It's very persnickety and old-maidish really, but then when I'm working I generally have to eat my meals along and it makes them more interesting when one takes trouble. -- Ian Fleming</p><p><br />I wish I was one of those persnickety types who buys guideboks and studies them, but I don't have the inclination or the time. I'm more of a 'get on the plane, arrive at the destination and see what happens' kind of traveler. -- Candace Bushnell</p><p> </p></div><p></p><p><br /></p><p>Fun synonyms: fussbudgety, finicky, old-maidish and niminy-piminy</p><p>How I wish I lived in a world that uses words like persnickety and niminy-piminy, Don't you? Have you ever used either one or heard either used. Both are fabulous and fun vocab to have up your sleeve! </p><p>Enjoy! </p><strong style="background-color: white; color: #6a6a6a; font-family: Verdana, Arial, "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: 14.4px;"></strong><p></p>Megan @ Inspired by Fictionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16702148718234802697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2469118654655525162.post-23744301395863090092024-01-22T12:15:00.000-08:002024-01-22T17:30:01.511-08:00The Girl from the Papers: BOOK REVIEW<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidnSQHHEQqaL27N_mbCmRl2td4ZV5jGaLHZGtp0KA3_CF2N4FA4kfgoFmu0QYQhm6-1KIRdsVcluNnThWVOM0nbmn724xIkU_O-NIEg7eh1vRxcPDzfgynU143HeMyT1D-a24omPhsIiEUwh2r0MAnjMfFwv7TsESAui0Y-0b1ZdJ7phLral8ETHatQH8/s500/Girl%20From%20the%20Papers.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="333" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidnSQHHEQqaL27N_mbCmRl2td4ZV5jGaLHZGtp0KA3_CF2N4FA4kfgoFmu0QYQhm6-1KIRdsVcluNnThWVOM0nbmn724xIkU_O-NIEg7eh1vRxcPDzfgynU143HeMyT1D-a24omPhsIiEUwh2r0MAnjMfFwv7TsESAui0Y-0b1ZdJ7phLral8ETHatQH8/s320/Girl%20From%20the%20Papers.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>Title: The Girl from the Papers<p></p><p>Author: Jennifer L. Wright</p><p>Genre: Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction</p><p>Page Count: 384</p><p><br /></p><p>My daughter reads and writes a lot of fan fiction, so I have gotten acquainted with this growing field of writing. There is a lot of fan fiction out there. Biblical fiction is Bible fan fiction. The Girl from the Papers is what I would describe as Bonnie and Clyde fan fiction: historical fiction loosely based on the true famous criminal couple known as Bonnie and Clyde. </p><p>Truthfully, I was surprised at the depth of writing in this book. This is a well written story with characters that I grew to care about and cheer for. Beatrice Carroway wanted love and lights and recognition. She finally seemed to find it in the eyes and arms of Jack Turner; however, the two of them make a string of bad decisions in their pursuit for money and fame. Beatrice's first experience with God's people and his message is one distorted by the legalistic and warped approach of her stepdad. Thankfully, God continues to place His people in Beatrice's path that point her to Him, show her that Jesus is loving, faithful, forgiving and always there. </p><p>SPOILER ALERT: I love the alternate ending that Wright created and how it truly highlights God's grace, second chances and the power of His people as witnesses, simply walking in His love. </p><p><b>Book Inspired Prayer:</b> God, this world is filled with people who have made bad choices, been led astray by the futile pursuit for things; people who have committed crimes/ sins that hurt others and have natural and often legal consequences. I lift up those individuals to You and ask that You would lead witnesses into their path, that they would see and understand Your grace and Your unending love. I pray that you would remind us/ Your followers to walk as You walked and share your love to ALL individuals who cross our path, even, and maybe especially those who are walking in the most darkness. Thank you for Your presence, and Your answered prayers. AMEN</p>Megan @ Inspired by Fictionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16702148718234802697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2469118654655525162.post-60194332636623108992024-01-20T17:00:00.000-08:002024-01-20T17:04:11.971-08:00Historical Childhood<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsUgLKI_3-aem-_BnWULw71QyBowox2pPShqtpOvQJhpozBHUXOA_7w1yNxNUinwzXesIhFzrX5h9soiAf5DRcIojLwGxoRfvc-mHzfyJlRpvrziu57DQeBZiecUBw6cZ-Yfpa_cQMq5GRXA6UtcaqN2mBCR5j9sf6MSZNHHJw8GoySkyLTNGcdrv1g2o/s2000/80s%2090s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="2000" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsUgLKI_3-aem-_BnWULw71QyBowox2pPShqtpOvQJhpozBHUXOA_7w1yNxNUinwzXesIhFzrX5h9soiAf5DRcIojLwGxoRfvc-mHzfyJlRpvrziu57DQeBZiecUBw6cZ-Yfpa_cQMq5GRXA6UtcaqN2mBCR5j9sf6MSZNHHJw8GoySkyLTNGcdrv1g2o/w311-h249/80s%2090s.jpg" width="311" /></a></div> Something occurred to me today. <p></p><p>What do you consider "historical fiction?" As one of my favorite genres, I often read WWII and older. I am currently listening to The Women, by Kristen Hannah set during the Vietnam War and reading a fiction inspired by Bonnie and Clyde of the late 20s, early 30s. Both of these are very clearly works of historical fiction. Everything that I have ever read that I have classified as historical fiction is set in times before I was born.</p><p>Today it hit me that books set in the 80s and 90s would also be considered historical fiction. A book about my childhood would be historical! It was 30-40 years ago in a very different culture and time than we live now. </p><p>A time of metal playgrounds with slides and merry go rounds that burnt your skin. <br /></p><p>A time with no uber or doordash. I remember when the first fast food restaurant opened in our town! </p><p>A time with no streaming services. We had 3 channels on our TV, and only watched Saturday morning cartoons and the occasional family sitcom (growing pains, Who's the boss, full house). Movies were watched at the theater or rented from the video store. Trips to the Showtime Video or Family Video where my sister and I would pick out one movie each to rent for the next 2-3 days. y to rent a second and third time. The rental place always sold theater snacks, so we'd often get a box md have a microwave growing up. I honestly don't remember using it much. </p><p>A time before kindles and e-readers and online textbooks. Trips to the library were even better than trips to the video store. We could keep books for 2-3 weeks. I would leave with a stack a was really great, but being older is okay too. I am not embarrassed by my years. I have lived and loved and learned, and I'm still living and loving and learning. Age should continue to be honored. I hope to learn from those older than I am and pass on their wisdom to those younger than I. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvouRhz6A0Uek7w_RU7rkQi2YZsFyC7UlcxVzFJ3LqsZCBIg4MrLlNg1Gm7xO77NGNR9zwD4Ke6eRnSDXUX-ll9xGLwvf9gkv8BXVCy7lrniTI-fTXfnx49Xe1CBv3SDU3u_0kmo3qq-lUBvz6zf7xxO53IaBoZwwoqS0Ff9XVLpK_B6hjwafqNiVsu6g/s150/lighhouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="120" data-original-width="150" height="135" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvouRhz6A0Uek7w_RU7rkQi2YZsFyC7UlcxVzFJ3LqsZCBIg4MrLlNg1Gm7xO77NGNR9zwD4Ke6eRnSDXUX-ll9xGLwvf9gkv8BXVCy7lrniTI-fTXfnx49Xe1CBv3SDU3u_0kmo3qq-lUBvz6zf7xxO53IaBoZwwoqS0Ff9XVLpK_B6hjwafqNiVsu6g/w169-h135/lighhouse.jpg" width="169" /></a></div><p></p><p>I am inspired by those who have lived before me: the true stories and the fictionalized ones. There is something inspirational in each one of us. Share your story. Shine your light. </p><p><br /></p><p>Image source: <span style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: #242424; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-indent: -28px;">(ca. 1964) </span><cite style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: #242424; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-indent: -28px;">Highland Light, view A</cite><span style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: #242424; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-indent: -28px;">. North Truro Massachusetts, ca. 1964. [Photograph] Retrieved from the Library of Congress, https://www.loc.gov/item/2005691094/.</span></p>Megan @ Inspired by Fictionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16702148718234802697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2469118654655525162.post-52169407390638687062024-01-18T09:00:00.000-08:002024-01-18T09:00:00.133-08:00Ordinary Grace: Book Review<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTS_kp3-fkSdPmkBgyr9bxHhjjfgETAHtSwzrqj6KPrug7at5F03cnFrgrXLEkDgO__3TAbCdMzk_KlHksgnhE_9AmKC6FSYxRuJJ6TLVd2R-BuC0BJItRY8ZHc7vCEy3i9luUB_mCbce4Mc4oDUPiumnkco62_8OdK87MWWCp3dy8DJe3La38Abf9ag8/s475/ordinarygrace.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTS_kp3-fkSdPmkBgyr9bxHhjjfgETAHtSwzrqj6KPrug7at5F03cnFrgrXLEkDgO__3TAbCdMzk_KlHksgnhE_9AmKC6FSYxRuJJ6TLVd2R-BuC0BJItRY8ZHc7vCEy3i9luUB_mCbce4Mc4oDUPiumnkco62_8OdK87MWWCp3dy8DJe3La38Abf9ag8/s320/ordinarygrace.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><br /> Ordinary Grace<p></p><p>Author: William Kent Krueger</p><p>Literary Fiction</p><p>Edgar Award Winner</p><p>Page Count: 307</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>Ordinary Grace is a beautifully written chronicle through grief and loss and grace. Frank Drum reflects on a summer from 40 years ago, a summer filled with exploration, death, and revelation, a summer when Frank was only 13 years old. Frank relives the summer of 1961, one death at a time, as he learns that life isn't always what it looks like, and God's grace is both mysterious and miraculous. Finding the amazing, ordinary, awful grace of God in the midst of loss is a gift, and this story depicts both God's grace for His people and His people's grace toward others. The difficult revelations and circumstances dealt with that summer had the potential to create a very heavy and dark read; however, William Kent Krueger imbued his text with the hope that I long for and look for in the books I read. I would highly recommend this book to any and all readers. </p><p><br /></p>Megan @ Inspired by Fictionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16702148718234802697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2469118654655525162.post-35989925089770991002024-01-17T15:00:00.000-08:002024-01-17T15:00:00.244-08:00Word of the Week: Grace<p> Grace has multiple meanings, including: </p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>simple elegance or refinement of movement, </li><li>courteous goodwill; </li><li>a period officially allowed for payment of a sum due or for compliance with a law or condition, especially an extended period granted as a special favor;</li><li>the free and unmerited favor of God, as manifested in the salvation of sinners and the bestowal of blessings. </li><li>a short prayer of thanks, said before or after a meal</li></ul><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6fTAm7MCUQdJk5vwRFBASGxbXw30mjYa13MlbevgGDvUSLAGP91MieSgtm_h7djHgvKRs8IXmrv7QBr7FB8mPHsIT9pIX8EX50aXhBElB0SAjvRHMKruQDLQd3UMYV_xtByGTCBhW9StchbEp7CJyEhmHHbyQVRkXMtbjxIEGXNsDOtUkVwg3JjNftmQ/s1080/Cream%20Black%20Minimalist%20Season%20of%20Lent%20Christian%20Instagram%20Post.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6fTAm7MCUQdJk5vwRFBASGxbXw30mjYa13MlbevgGDvUSLAGP91MieSgtm_h7djHgvKRs8IXmrv7QBr7FB8mPHsIT9pIX8EX50aXhBElB0SAjvRHMKruQDLQd3UMYV_xtByGTCBhW9StchbEp7CJyEhmHHbyQVRkXMtbjxIEGXNsDOtUkVwg3JjNftmQ/s320/Cream%20Black%20Minimalist%20Season%20of%20Lent%20Christian%20Instagram%20Post.png" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Scripture about Grace:</div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;">Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16</p><p style="text-align: center;">But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions -- it is by grace you have been saved. Ephesians 2: 4-5</p><p style="text-align: center;">For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this is not from yourselves, it is a gift of God -- not by works, so that no one can boast. Ephesians 2: 8-9</p><p style="text-align: center;">For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. Romans 3:23-24</p><p style="text-align: center;">But he said to me, " my grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weakness, so that Christ's power may rest on me. 2 Corinthians 12:9<br /></p><p><br /></p><p>Famous Quotes: </p><p>Courage is grace under pressure. Ernest Hemingway</p><p>Grace is the voice that calls us to change and then gives us the power to pull it off. Max Lucado</p><p>For grace is given not because we have done good works, but in order that we may be able to do them. Saint Augustine of Hippo</p><p>Beauty without grace is like a hook without bait. Ralph Waldo Emerson</p><p>Grace comes into the soul, as the morning sun into the world; first a dawning; then a light; and at last the sun in his full and excellent brightness. Thomas Adams</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>My thoughts:</p><p>Grace is our life breath. It is our salvation, our sanctification. It is kindness from others and for others. Grace is everything we don't deserve that we get anyway: from a simple sunrise to a piece of chocolate to forgiveness and an eternity in heaven. Grace gives us a meaning and a reason for living. We all need to receive God's grace. We all need to give grace to the world around us. How can you share grace today? </p>Megan @ Inspired by Fictionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16702148718234802697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2469118654655525162.post-84292664315834369462024-01-16T05:00:00.000-08:002024-01-16T12:35:07.275-08:00Am I a Writer?<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVKpeB9VOFIfO6BxoEJtheVSDmueT7P9Ajg9SyGJsFkpOD08_0NmUkUmtTOZMeTCpKcVbDOmsa9YBEDLcmkfvDqupnseLLZBxBTeaHkiLovgiFjflLr_EUd4V9gdwoH3s-7GleG8Nb6Dk2SNxndv-oXZneBDSaw-oB20xKmpMGOJUZS5PF2hWhHBzUgFo/s2240/Gray%20Minimal%20How%20To%20Enhance%20Your%20Portfolio%20Blog%20Banner.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVKpeB9VOFIfO6BxoEJtheVSDmueT7P9Ajg9SyGJsFkpOD08_0NmUkUmtTOZMeTCpKcVbDOmsa9YBEDLcmkfvDqupnseLLZBxBTeaHkiLovgiFjflLr_EUd4V9gdwoH3s-7GleG8Nb6Dk2SNxndv-oXZneBDSaw-oB20xKmpMGOJUZS5PF2hWhHBzUgFo/s320/Gray%20Minimal%20How%20To%20Enhance%20Your%20Portfolio%20Blog%20Banner.png" width="320" /></a></div> I have always wanted to write. I think since I was at least 12, I had a dream of being an author one day. Do you know how many people I have met that dream of publishing a book, writing a novel, a scientific article? Writing something that others will read. I have great ideas; storylines fill my head. Characters so clear that I sometimes stop and think, how would she react to this. One time, tears streamed down my face in worship as I felt God minister to her (my character in her imaginary situation). They are so real to me they feel like friends. But I have never brought them to life, never put them down on paper. <p></p><p>Why? What is stopping me. </p><p>I'm lazy, I'm busy, I lack discipline. I don't know where to start, so I don't. I live with these stories, characters and ideas popping in and out of my consciousness and yet do nothing with them. Maybe I'm afraid. What if I put it all down and nothing comes of it. No one likes it, no one reads it. But now I'm thinking, so what. What if no one reads it? I will still have done it. I will have written the story that God has laid on my heart. And I think, maybe, that is enough for me. </p><p>So now, how do I start? How do I make time to complete this huge undertaking? How to I alter priorities to put writing near the top. I say near because I want Jesus first. My family will always be next, but I can eliminate many time wasters, like scrolling through social media, tv, even sleeping in on the weekends. Those things can go. Those things do not matter. So the current question<br /> is can I change? Can I deny myself those meaningless past times to pursue something greater, something that currently feels so far out of reach. I hope so. </p>Megan @ Inspired by Fictionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16702148718234802697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2469118654655525162.post-23934292858116619672024-01-13T05:29:00.000-08:002024-01-13T05:29:06.381-08:00Everyone who can Forgive me is Dead: Book Review<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYKlE0OEqoiAbBZS8F1M1n_HwdrBq2La5ukG0GVePiwIEQA8zfhv_ukMr6ns8K1Bw5D9ABecNp9TKF1mAND9Q2yNI6UwN8c7ayVfqMN2S9LxdlCiRIc0DYBMZhRGKwJtu-Bj0tW2mfL6xCr6EkCi9RyYHwLIg8LKMeTC1Ob3Um0jiCnQUD1l1fPQfMd7s/s900/forgive.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYKlE0OEqoiAbBZS8F1M1n_HwdrBq2La5ukG0GVePiwIEQA8zfhv_ukMr6ns8K1Bw5D9ABecNp9TKF1mAND9Q2yNI6UwN8c7ayVfqMN2S9LxdlCiRIc0DYBMZhRGKwJtu-Bj0tW2mfL6xCr6EkCi9RyYHwLIg8LKMeTC1Ob3Um0jiCnQUD1l1fPQfMd7s/s320/forgive.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>Everyone Who Can Forgive Me is Dead</p><p>Author: Jenny Hollander</p><p>Genre: Thriller</p><p>Page count: 304 pgs</p><p>However, I did listen to the audio book of this one! It is the first time in years that I've done an audio book. It helped pass the time on my drive to and from work. I really enjoyed it; however, I find that I process it differently and don't fully feel like I read the book. I am a visual learner, so I have a little trouble assessing the "writing" having listened to it. </p><p>Everyone who can Forgive me is Dead focuses on Charlotte Colbert, 10 years after her experience of tragedy and violence in what had been dubbed "Scarlet Christmas." A horrible Christmas Eve attack at her journalist school, where 3 of her classmates died. Charlotte moved on after the event with great difficulty and trials and now has a successful career. As the 10 year anniversary nears, news of a film about the event emerges and Charlotte reaches crisis mode attempting to remember what really happened that night. What was her involvement and how can she stop this movie from ruining all she has built. </p><p>Hollander approaches the impact of trauma in a unique way, from the viewpoint of an individual who thought she had gotten past it and was living her life. I am a certified trauma professional and I think Hollander gives an accurate portrayal of how this tragic event may have impacted one of the survivors. It is a fast paced novel and I was eager to find out the truth and to know if Charlotte is able to hold it together and really deal with her trauma narrative in a way that is healing. Would she run from the truth, try to hide it again or would she finally process things and take steps in the right direction? I admit there were a couple of twists that I wasn't sure were necessary; however, it did not detract from the overall plot or character development. I would recommend this book to others, especially those who enjoy psychological thrillers. </p>Megan @ Inspired by Fictionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16702148718234802697noreply@blogger.com0