"Snakehead Invasion: An Up North Adventure" by G.M. Moore

The book Snakehead Invasion by G. M. Moore promises to keep the reader interested as each adventure unfolds.  This Juvenile Fiction is the third book in the series called An Up North Adventure.  The setting takes place at the lakes of Northern Wisconsin where we follow Griffy and Pike through many dangerous situations.  The boys become entangled in a mystery that can ruin the lake and the livelihood of everyone on it.   

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys the great outdoors and the sport of fishing.  This book goes into gory details on how to dissect a fish which is sure to interest boys.  It is fun to follow the strange events that take place in The Lost Land Lake while we enjoy figuring out if Griffy and Pike can solve the mystery.  G. M. Moore has captured the art of telling an exciting story through this series. (reviewed by M.Hicks)

Other books in the series reviewed here on Reader's Review Haven are:

• Ancient Elk Hunt
• Muskie Attack

"Red Sky At Morning" by Steve Wilson

ISBN: 978-1-61808-035-6
White Feather Press

About the book: When Marine Lieutenant Michael Neill is ordered to the former Soviet Union, his assignment is to verify nuclear disarmament. But before his mission begins, he suffers both a personal and professional loss—an American reconnaissance plane is attacked by a Russian fighter, and a Navy pilot is killed. Ironically, the dead airman is Neill’s good friend and former Naval Academy classmate. After the incident, Neill’s mission changes.

The President’s National Security Advisor wants Lieutenant Neill to investigate Russian stealth technology, in addition to his original assignment. Photographic evidence—and the lack of radar images of the attacking aircraft—lead the American intelligence community to conclude that something new has been developed in the skies over Russia. The National Security Advisor believes that Neill’s friendship with a high-ranking officer in the Ukrainian Air Force is the key to establishing Red Sky at Morning—the existence of new aviation technology that could upset the balance of power between East and West.

However, ultra-nationalist forces are at work. After arriving in Eastern Europe, Neill quickly uncovers a conspiracy of terrorism secretly instigated by the Kremlin. Government leaders in Moscow will stop at nothing to rebuild the Soviet Union as they try to force the breakaway republics back into the fold.

Review: Red Sky at Morning by Steve Wilson is a great read.  The story is compelling and exciting.  The characters are well developed and interesting to become involved with.  The writing style is easy and fluid making the book hard to put down as you begin to be drawn in by the drama.  There is a good mix of romantic interest as well as lots of excitement and intrigue as the characters evolve and the story line unwinds. 

I enjoyed the many different connections between the characters.  There is a slight reference to Christian living that I found to be a nice addition to the story.  The events, although fictional, contain a strong link to realistic events that could possibly happen.  I would highly recommend this book  to readers looking for intrigue and excitement.

 Read the first chapter.

Author:  Steve Wilson is a multimedia designer and has worked in advertising for over 25 years. He is a prior service Marine and now serves as a senior NCO in the Air Force Reserve. He has deployed to Kuwait, Iraq, and Afghanistan, in addition to tours in the United States, Germany, and the Pacific, and has visited the former Soviet Union multiple times. He lives in Florida with his wife. Red Sky at Morning is his first novel. Purchase

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy of Red Sky at Morning was provided by the author to facilitate our honest review with no expectation nor requirement of a positive review.

"Finding My Place – One Girl’s Strength at Vicksburg" by Margo L. Dill

This delightful and insightful historic fiction tells of thirteen year old Anna Green and the trials she and her family faced during the Civil War when Vicksburg was under siege. The book is written from Anna’s viewpoint and gives insight into how a young girl might have perceived what was happening during this time of conflict.

Though a fiction, the writer has been true to the historical accounts of what the citizens of Vicksburg had to endure when the city was being barraged with artillery fire. Caves were dug out and became home to many as their houses were no longer safe to indwell. The basic provisions of food and clean water were scarce, and the story relates the lengths to which the people of Vicksburg had to go to simply survive. Anna and her family had to endure an especially difficult tragedy in the midst of what was already a very difficult situation.

In the end, Anna proves to be a girl who has grown in confidence and courage and finds inner strength that heretofore she had not realized she possessed.

I highly recommend this book to middle school aged readers as an excellent means of learning about our country’s history during this tragic period of the Civil War while enjoying a story full of suspense as well as incredible heroism. (reviewed by J.La Tour)

Author: Margo L. Dill -Join me on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/pages/Editor-911-Margo-L-Dill/346210516982

• Finding My Place, middle-grade historical fiction,White Mane Kids, October 2012 - To view lesson plans, writing prompts, historical facts, and more, go to this spot on this blog: http://margodill.com/blog/category/finding-my-place-by-margo-dill/
• Maggie Mae, Detective Extraordinaire and the Case of the Missing Cookies, picture book, Guardian Angel Publishing, TBD
• Lucy and the Red Ribbon Week Adventure, picture book, High Hill Press, Publication date TBD

"Vietnam Free-fire Zone Book 3" by Chris Lynch

About the book: Four best friends. Four ways to serve their country.

Morris, Rudi, Ivan, and Beck are best friends for life. So when one of the teens is drafted into the Vietnam War, the others sign up, too. Although they each serve in a different branch, they are fighting the war together -- and they promise to do all they can to come home together.

Rudi is perhaps the most concerned about whether or not he'll be able to keep that promise. After all -- and he'd be the first to admit this -- he's not the most capable guy. He's not smart like Beck, or brave like Ivan. He lacks the strength of Morris's moral convictions. (from Barnesandnoble.com)

Review: This is the third in a series about a young marine in Vietnam. The setting of book three is toward the middle and end of the war.

Rudi is a marine who thrives on the adventure and “belonging” he finds as part of the Marines. He has to deal with many difficult situations but finds security in submitting to his superiors. Through his experiences in Vietnam he grows and conquers many fears. 

Vietnam is a well written book giving the reader a view of some of what a Marine faced during the war. The book does not concern itself too much with the policies of the war but more with the story of one Marines’ views and struggles. (reviewed A.Freeman)

Author: Chris Lynch is the author of numerous acclaimed books for middle-grade and teen readers, including the Cyberia series and the National Book Award finalist INEXCUSABLE. He teaches in the Lesley University creative writing MFA program, and divides his time between Massachusetts and Scotland.

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy of Vietnam: Free-Fire Zone was provided by Scholastic in order to facilitate an honest review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer and there was no imposed obligation to render a positive review.

"The Amazing Mr. Franklin or The Boy Who Read Everything" by Ruth Ashby

ISBN: 978-1-56145-306-1
Hardcover $12.95

About the book:  Everyone knows Benjamin Franklin was an important statesman, inventor, and a signer of the Declaration of Independence. But did you know he started the first library in America for the public good?

Ben Franklin was always a "bookish" boy. He was born in 1706, the seventh of ten children of a candlemaker. The first book he read was the Bible at age five, and then every printed word in his father's small home library. Ben wanted to read more, but books were expensive. He wanted to go to school and learn more, but his family needed him to work. Ben Franklin had lots of ideas about how to turn his love of reading and learning into something more. First he worked as a printer's apprentice, then he set up his own printing business. Later he became the first bookseller in Philadelphia, started a newspaper, published Poor Richard's Almanac, and in 1731, with the help of his friends, organized the first subscription lending library, the Library Company.

Review:    Ruth Ashby writes a delightful account of the life of Ben Franklin.  She weaves the events of his early life into the details of his growing up and becoming an adult that would influence the world.  Her style is easy to read and she does a superb job of incorporating the historical information pertinent to the time. 

I particularly like the part at the end of the book that is set up to focus on the accomplishments of Mr. Franklin through the different areas that he pursued. Interesting anecdotal stories fill the pages and keep the story interesting and compelling to read.  Young readers will learn history. (reviewed by C.Delorge) 

 For grades 4 - 5th (ages 7-10). Pages - 144. Categories:

• History
• Nonfiction
• Biography and Memoir
• Early Reader

Author:  Ruth Ashby is the award-winning author of dozens of nonfiction and fiction books for juvenile readers. She lives in New York.

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy of The Amazing Mr. Franklin was provided by the Peachtree Publishers on behalf of the author to facilitate an honest review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer and a positive review was not required.

"Redemption" by Bryan Clay (Olympic champion) with Joel Kilpatrick

ISBN: 9780849948275
Hardcover: $24.99

About the book:  This is the story of the most unlikely Olympic decathlete in history. Despite size and stature, Bryan Clay is the defending champion of the 2008 Olympic gold medal and winner of the 2004 Olympic silver medal in the decathlon. His journey is as inspiring as it is gritty, as troubled as it is triumphant.

Far more than just a sports memoir, Redemption details the drudgery, devastation, and ultimate conversion that led Bryan to become a world champion. “[God] had a plan when I believed that dreams never came true because, in my life, they never did,” says Bryan. Through a remarkable series of events and devoted prayers of his mother, Bryan’s life was turned around into a victorious narrative of truly being redeemed.

Review:  Bryan Clay’s story is inspiring as well as sobering.  As a parent it reminds you that your actions and reactions do affect your children in ways you sometimes don’t realize, and it gives you hope and faith that God is in control no matter what.  God has a plan for each of our lives even when we don’t trust Him and follow Him.  

Bryan Clay lays his life out for all to see.  He shows you dark side of his youth, the faith of his mother, the struggles of his family and the grace of God through it all, not just his trip to the Olympics and 10 steps to his gold medal.  This book is its own medal to all the youth workers, teachers, and individuals who invest in our children’s lives.  You never know what kind of influence you may be to them and on who they may become.

DISCLOSURE:  We were provided a complimentary copy of Redemption by BookSneeze on behalf of the publisher Thomas Nelson and the author in order to facilitate our honest review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer. There was no obligation to render a positive review.

"The Shape of Mercy" by Susan Meissner

About the book: Leaving a life of privilege to strike out on her own, Lauren Durough breaks with convention and her family’s expectations by choosing a state college over Stanford and earning her own income over accepting her ample monthly allowance. She takes a part-time job from 83-year-old librarian Abigail Boyles, who asks Lauren to transcribe the journal entries of her ancestor Mercy Hayworth, a victim of the Salem witch trials.

Almost immediately, Lauren finds herself drawn to this girl who lived and died four centuries ago. As the fervor around the witch accusations increases, Mercy becomes trapped in the worldview of the day, unable to fight the overwhelming influence of snap judgments and superstition, and Lauren realizes that the secrets of Mercy’s story extend beyond the pages of her diary, living on in the mysterious, embittered Abigail.

My thoughts:  Abigail, a wealthy elderly woman, hires Lauren Durough, an English major at the state college, to transcribe a three hundred year old journal written by her ancestor Mercy Hayworth. 

Mercy endured the notorious Salem witch trials, and Lauren's transcriptions of the journal reveal the horror and helplessness that Mercy felt when her innocent neighbors and friends were accused and convicted of being witches without any true evidence.  Eventually Mercy is also accused by a jealous neighbor of being a witch because she wrote fanciful  stories and loved a young man in the village.  During the trials Mercy trades her life to save another.

Mercy's experiences cause introspective Lauren to reconsider her own life and relationships with Abigail, her college roommate, and her friend Raul.  She realizes that she judges people by what they have or don't have.  Instead she desires to "see people for what they are on the inside" before she comes to any conclusions.

Mercy's final sacrifice teaches Lauren that the choice is hers.  Consequently, Lauren chooses to make a difference in the life of someone else.  Readers will enjoy the resourceful plan that Lauren attempts in order to aid Abigail during a difficult time in her life.

The author Susan Meissner uses the three generational realistic characters in the book to enable the reader to reach the conclusion that "we tend to judge people based on notions rather than truth, and without stopping to consider if we even have the right to judge them at all".

The Shape of Mercy combines historical fiction with modern realistic fiction to write a thought-provoking tale of fear, mass hysteria, jealousy,and finally the right choices.  Certainly readers will be ready to evaluate their own lives after absorbing the lessons in this engaging book. (reviewed by S.Fuqua)

Read an Excerpt

About the author: Susan Meissner is an award-winning author whose books include The Shape of Mercy, Lady in Waiting, and A Sound Among the Trees. She is the wife of an Air Force chaplain and a mother of four young adults. When she’s not writing, Susan directs the Small Groups and Connection Ministries program at her San Diego church.

DISCLOSURE: The Shape of Mercy by Susan Meissner is published by Waterbrook Press. A complimentary copy was provided to us to facilitate our honest review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer.

"14 Cows for America" by Carmen Agra Deedy & illustrated by Thomas Gonzalez

Hardcover: $17.95
ISBN: 978-1-56145-490-7

14 Cows for America is a book written by Carmen Agra Deedy in collaboration with Wilson Kimeli Naiyomah and illustrated by Thomas Gonzalez. It was a touching and true story of a compassionate act by a poor Maasai African tribe for the comparatively rich country of America.

Kimeli, who is studying to be a doctor in America, visits his Maasai relatives in a village in Kenya.  He tells them about the terrorists' attack on New York on September 11, which he personally observed. The tribe and elders are saddened and dismayed that anyone would do such a despicable act.  Kimeli as a child was taught to be compassionate and kind to anyone in need and to give others of what he valued most. The cows each family possesses in the Maasai tribe provides milk for them, but Kimeli's mother was too poor to own one when he was a child.  Now as an adult, he is able to have one.  He decides to give his cow to America.  Read the exciting conclusion about the generous sacrifice that the Maasai elders and people made for the hurting people of America.

Since I had lived in Africa for fifteen years as a missionary's child, I had observed the abject poverty of many African families, so the great sacrifice this Maasai tribe made brought tears to my eyes.

I read this book to my fifth grade class.  Several were moved by the story.  Here are their comments-

• "This book is very touching.  The pictures were almost lifelike.  It was sad and touching.  It teaches a good lesson to always help others in need or suffering."     - Jonathan
• "The pictures were great.  The person that did it is very talented.  The library...should get it for the early readers section."  - Jessica 
• "I Iiked their fancy clothes and their hair.  What I really didn't like about it was it said nothing about God."   -John
• "The pictures were pretty in the background."     -Taylor
• "I liked how it showed the culture of Kenya and told some of the words they say in their language."     -Brooke
• "I love the bold pictures and colors."      -Isaac
• "It shows that he (Kimeli) is kind.  He cares about people.  He respects the elders, and he loves them.  He is really kindhearted, and I think he really was like God."     -Justin
• "I liked how the pictures looked, and how they loved their cows."     -Micah
• "This book was interesting, and the pictures were colorful.  It is a good book to read because it feels like you're in the book." - Jannah
• "It's a kind book.  I love the pictures.  They are real realistic.  I don't like that they (the Maasai) are poor."   - Noah
• "I like this book because there are warriors that are kind.  I like the background, pictures, and the title."   -Elijah
• "I like when one of the little African boys held a baby cow.  What I don't like about it was that it brought back the memories of 9/11.   -Mark
• "The book was very realistic."   -Daniela
• "Some parts I don't really get- like the cow to them was life and close to their hearts."   -Laura

Most of the class felt it was a great book, but some thought it was more appropriate for younger children.  A couple thought that the book was boring, but the majority felt it was a touching story of compassion and generosity. As a class they gave this book a high recommendation.

(Book review by Sharon Fuqua and the Fifth Grade class at Alamance Christian School)
DISCLOSURE:  A copy of the book was provided by Peachtree Publishers on behalf of the author for the purpose of an honest review. No require was made for a positive review.

"Courting Cate - The Courtships of Lancaster County #1" by Leslie Gould

ISBN:  978-0-7642-1031-0

About the book: When This Couple Gets to Courting, Sparks Will Fly!

In Paradise, Pennsylvania, Cate Miller is known more for her sharp tongue and fiery temper than her striking appearance. Her sweet and flirty sister, Betsy, on the other hand, seems to have attracted most of the bachelors in Lancaster County!

But the sisters' wealthy father has made one hard-and-fast rule: older Cate must marry first, before younger Betsy can even start courting. Unfortunately, untamable Cate has driven away every suitor-until Pete Treger comes to town, that is.

Prodded by the men of the area, Pete turns his attention to winning Cate's hand. But is his interest true or is there a scheme at play?

Link to buy the book: http://ow.ly/eSNfb

Our thoughts:  Courting Cate by Leslie Gould is the first book in a series called the Courtships of Lancaster County and is published by Bethany House.

"Betsy doesn't marry unless Cate marries first!" Cate's Amish father declares firmly. Most of the young Amish men want to marry Betsy because she is blond, beautiful, and sweet. Cate has been responsible for raising her sister since the death of their mother at Betsy's birth.  Cate's own beauty is marred by her temper that flares frequently and offends anyone who attempts to court her.  Betsy tries to manipulate and convince her older sister Cate into a marriage of convenience hoping then that their father will allow her to marry.  Three of Betsy's Amish suitors have tormented and teased Cate since childhood resulting in her insecurities and sharp tongue.  These antagonists continue their pranks causing Cate to doubt her suitor's intentions.  Was Pete only interested in her father's wealth?  Was he still despondent over the broken relationship with the girl next door?

Cate's suitor Pete at times is disappointing seemingly insipid and indecisive in his feelings toward her until his reasons are later revealed.

The theme of this romance book is learning to trust God and not one's emotions.  Cate's troubles and God's Word in the example of the life of Queen Esther teach her this valuable truth.

The author admits that the plot of this book is loosely based on Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew.  The similarities between the characters of both works are clearly evident resulting sometimes in an unrealistic feeling when these characters from an English play are placed in an Amish setting.

The characters in this book are vivid and intense although their actions do not follow the typical Amish traditions portrayed in other books.  The Amish women are known for their hearty, appetizing meals, yet Cate raised her sister but never learned to cook.  Despite the fact that Amish men tend to work on large farms and the women usually work in the home, her father made his wealth in the cabinet and consulting business while Cate kept the accounts for him. Regardless of these discrepancies, the book would hold any reader's attention to the last page and is definitely worth reading. (Book review by Sharon Fuqua)

About the author: Leslie Gould is the co-author, with Mindy Starns Clark, of the #1 bestselling The Amish Midwife and The Amish Nanny. She is also the author of numerous novels, including Garden of Dreams, Beyond the Blue (winner of the Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice for Best Inspirational Novel, 2006), and Scrap Everything. She holds an MFA in creative writing from Portland State University and has taught fiction writing at Multnomah University as an adjunct professor. She resides with her husband and four children in Portland, Oregon. Learn more at www.lesliegould.com.

Other reviews in the blog tour: http://litfusegroup.com/author/LGould
DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy of Courting Cate was provided to us by Litfuse Publicity Group on behalf of the publisher, Bethany House and the author to facilitate our honest review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer. No monetary compensation was given for this review.

Imagination Station Books #8 and #9 ""battle for Cannibal Island" and "Escape to the Hiding Place"

Authors Marianne Hering and Wayne Thomas Batson capture the interest and imagination of the young reader.

ISBN: 978-1-60482-667-8

About "Escape to the Hiding Place":  Patrick and Beth arrive in World War II Holland in the farm country. They must smuggle a baby (by bicycle) into the capable hands of Corrie ten Boom at her home in Haarlem. Along the way they hide from Nazi soliders, meet a Russian surgeon forced into service by the Germans, and encourage two Jewish children who haven’t been outside in over three years. The children learn to appreciate the bravery and sacrifice of everyday people who helped the Jews.

ISBN:  978-1-58997-674-0

 About "Battle for Cannibal Island":  It’s 1852 and cousins Patrick and Beth sail to Fiji on the HMS Calliope under the command of Captain James E. Home. They arrive at the islands to find that the Christian Fijians are at war with the non-Christian Fijians. Missionary James Calvert is trying to make peace and suggests that the captain allow peace negotiations on board the British vessel. Patrick and Beth learn about sacrificial living when they observe Calvert’s determination to live on Fiji despite the dangers and impoverished conditions and that he is willing to risk his life to live as Jesus would.

Review: These books involve exciting historic adventures.  They are full of suspense and keep the reader engaged while learning about history.  The characters are believable and easy to imagine.  The books’ easy to read format will be inviting for early readers, and the story line is captivating for older readers as well.  Excellent choice for reluctant readers and those who love to read.  

My fifth grade son loved them and wants to read the others in the series. (reviewed by A.Freeman)

DISCLOSURE: The two Imagination Station books: Escape to the Hiding Place and Battle for Cannibal Island were provided complimentary by Tyndale Blog Network on behalf of Focus on the Family, Tyndale House Publishers, and the authors,Marianne Hering, Wayne Batson to facilitate our review. No obligation was placed upon us for a complimentary review.

"Ancient Elk Hunt: An Up North Adventure" by G. M. Moore

ISBN:  9781475004625

The book Ancient Elk Hunt in the series An Up North Adventure by G.M. Moore is a fun read that would be a great addition to any young reader's shelf. Set in the lake of Northern Wisconsin, two preteen boys enjoy the sights and adventures that this particular part of the country can offer. Since the author grew up exploring the landscape and lakes of Northern Wisconsin, he is able to describe first-hand the beauty and possible hazards of this landscape.

The two boys find themselves in many exciting situations that lead to an ancient artifact find that may help their new friend save his business. First, they must outwit a dishonest archeologist that has his own interests in mind. This book not only explores God’s beautiful outdoors but also teaches the value of friendship and helping others. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys fishing, hunting, and outdoor activities.

Some reservations that may caution Christian parents: touches on evolution and slang words such as dang and darn. (Reviewed by M.Hicks)

About the author: G.M. Moore is a former newspaper writer and editor.  The author grew up exploring the lakes of northern Wisconsin and currently resides in Illinois.

Website for Up North Adventures:  http://upnorthadventure-series.com  There are two other books in the Up North Adventure Series:  Ancient Elk Hunt and Snakehead Invasion.

DISCLOSURE:A complimentary copy of Ancient Elk Hunt was provided by the author to facilitate our honest review. A positive review was not required.

"Unstoppable: The Incredible Power of Faith in Action"by Nick Vujicic

ISBN:  978-0-307-73088-6
Waterbrook Pre

Our thoughts: Nick Vujicic’s story is inspiring.  He presents the story of his life in an easy to read format that is engaging and thought provoking.  It is amazing to see his determination to not allow physical limitations define who he is.  He consistently looks to God for wisdom and direction.  His faith that God makes no mistakes is clearly presented as a source of strength and encouragement to try new areas and to influence others. 

He chronicles events in his life candidly and presents both the positive and the negative situations that he has had to deal with.   There are many interesting events and some surprising twists and turns throughout his life that keep your interest peaked while reading.  Most importantly, throughout the whole book is the importance of “Faith in Action”.  Not only does he live this for his own life but he inspires others to do the same as he goes around the world speaking to groups. 

I would strongly encourage anyone to read and be encouraged by the story on Nick’s life and by the power of the God that he so faithfully depends on and serves each day. (reviewed by C.Delorge, Librarian)

About the author:  Nick Vujicic is a motivational speaker and the director of the nonprofit organization, Life Without Limbs. Nick has become a great inspiration to people around the world, regularly speaking to large crowds about overcoming obstacles and achieving dreams. A longtime resident of Australia, he now lives in southern California with his wife, Kanae. Visit his website at www.LifeWithoutLimbs.org.

Click to Read an Excerpt

DISCLOSURE: Review copies of Unstoppable were provided for the purpose of an honest review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer. There was no expressed requirement to render a positive review.

"Be Still My Soul" by Joanne Bischof

ISBN:  978-1-60142-421-1

This book starts out with a young girl named Lonnie Sawyer. She is a very timid and quiet 18 year old living with a father who is abusive both physically and verbally. She has watched her father be abusive to her mother and felt the same rage directed toward herself. She is the oldest of three.

There were many times that Lonnie would take her younger sister to their Aunt's house to get away from the anger of her dad. Her Aunt Sarah introduced Lonnie to the Psalms and the Lord. Lonnie keeps her faith quiet and does not share it verbally. She tries to live it out.

One night a man by the name of Samson asked Lonnie's mother to sing for the town dance. Lonnie's father did not like when men noticed her mother so he was not going to let her sing. However, he did not mind having his daughter do it. Lonnie did not enjoy being in front of people but obeyed her father. After the dance her father goes home drunk and leaves Lonnie and her younger brother to find their way home. Lonnie was ready to go home before her brother. A young man by the name of Gideon Oriley offers to take her home. Lonnie had seen him over the years playing the fiddle in the band and new he had a bad reputation. She felt uncomfortable walking home with him but she had a long walk ahead of her. When they reached her house he joked with her about giving a kiss. She did not think that was appropriate at first but then felt bad so decided she would. Her father sees them and accuses them of more. He forces them to get married.

After getting married Gideon decides that they need to go out on their own and move to a big city. He has plans to get a job and be able to make lots of money. They travel through the mountains on foot for many days.They argued a lot. Gideon did not yet have a relationship with God and was not happy that he had to marry. One day the argument got so heated Gideon was about to hit Lonnie when an older man came out of the woods and threatened him with his gun. He then helps carry Lonnie back to his cabin where his wife was waiting with a warm meal. Lonnie and Gideon end up staying there for months. Through staying there Gideon notices that this couple has faith like Lonnie. Some things from his past come to haunt him, and he realizes that he needs their faith and their God. He starts to fall in love with Lonnie and eventually they have a relationship that pleases God.

I enjoyed this book but would not recommend it to teenage girls. There are a few parts in the book that teenage girls are not ready to read about.

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy of Be Still My Soul was provided by Blogging for Books on behalf of the publisher Multnomah and the author to facilitate a honest review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer. There was no requirement to write a positive review.

"A Wreath of Snow" by Liz Curtis Higgs

 This delightful Victorian Christmas Novella is set in the Scottish town of Stirling during the Christmas of 1894.  It is the story of Meg Campbell, a bright and independent young teacher who spends her Christmas break with her family, her parents and disabled brother Alan, in Stirling. Her few days at home were met with disagreements and quarreling as Alan has been very difficult to live with ever since an unfortunate accident that occurred when he was but 10 years old which left him unable to walk and unable to live in harmony with those around him. 

Rather than continuing to endure the conflict, Meg chooses to leave and boards the train for Edinburgh in the midst of a blizzard hoping to put distance between herself and her family.  On the train she meets the charming and kind Gordon Shaw, a newspaper man from Glasgow on his way to an assignment in Edinburgh.  Upon Miss Campbell’s boarding the train, Mr. Shaw sees her and soon recognizes her as the sister of young Alan who, through his own carelessness while in a drunken state, Gordon had unintentionally injured some 12 years before. 

The story relates an unfortunate train accident that leaves all on the train walking some 6 miles back to Stirling to find food, warmth and lodging.  It is during this walk that Gordon Shaw reveals himself to Meg Campbell.   

This wonderful story becomes a tale of truth, forgiveness, redemption, and restoration.  Intertwined with the story is the message of the gospel, the leading of the Holy Spirit, and the miracle of forgiveness.  Enjoy reading this heartwarming novella during the Christmas season or at any time of the year.  

• Author's Web Site
• Video Trailer
• More Info
• Read Chapter One
• Author Bio

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy of A Wreath of Snow wa provided by Blogging for Books on behalf of the publisher, WaterBrookMultnomah and the author to facilitate an honest review.  Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer and we were not obligated to render a positive review.

"What About Heaven" by Kathleen Long Brostrom

Heaven? What is this place? What and who will be there?  This delightful picture book written for children to read or have read to them begins with many of the questions that children of all ages ask when considering heaven.  The adorable illustrations of colorful and whimsical children enhance the text so that the reader must read on.   

When the questions are all asked, the author directs the reader to the scriptures to learn what God has revealed as well as the references that support those truths.  It reminds us of no need for sun, our bodies will be perfect and new, no more pain or sickness, all will be whole and complete, angels, things of unbelievable beautiful, but best of all will be God Himself.  What a thought – “..God will be there, everywhere that you are…” 

Read, enjoy and marvel at the thought that Jesus “has prepared a place..” and that place is Heaven. (reviewed by J.LaTour)

About the book: Answer your child's important questions about heaven with this theologically-sound book for kids. With a rhythmic, rhyming text and colorful illustrations, this book answers your child's questions in an age-appropriate manner with scriptures to reference. Recommended for ages 0-5.

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy of What About Heaven? was provided by Tyndale Blog Network on behalf of the publisher and the author to facilitate rendering an honest review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer. A positive review was not required.

Kindle Fire Giveaway from @LeslieGould! RSVP for Facebook Party {11/20}

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

One lucky winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• Courting Cate by Leslie Gould

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

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

Don't miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 20th!
And...... watch for a review of Courting Cate HERE on Reader's Review Haven on November 16th

"The Wee Musketeers" by Robert Bresloff & illustrated by Daniel Ziembo

The Wee Musketeers by Robert Bresloff  is book one of the Get “Into” the Classics Series.  Remember back to those long summer days of pretend, throw in an eccentric Grandpa, and his beloved classics that transport you into the stories and you are sure to have an adventure on your hands.

The use of costumes throughout the tale would make this a great story to read to an elementary class and have a dress up day or weave a theme around it.  There are so many teaching opportunities available in this story not to mention just the pure fun of pretending.  Bresloff effectively grasps readers from all levels whether they are academic, athletic, artistic or love to be in the kitchen.  He has a character for you.  You find yourself picking a musketeer and rooting for them throughout the entire story.  This is a wonderful spin on a classic.  (reviewed by M.Free)

DISCLOSURE: A copy of the Wee Musketeers was provided by Gauthier Publications on behalf of author, Robert Bresloff in exchange for our honest review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer.