Sunday, September 8, 2024

Christmas at Sugar Plum Manor by Roseanna M. White

ABOUT THE BOOK

As the beloved stepdaughter of the Earl of Castleton, Lady Mariah Lyons cherishes her home at Plumford Manor, but her idyllic world will be threatened when the estate passes to Cyril Lightbourne, a childhood friend she hasn't seen or heard from in years. Once, Mariah dreamed their old friendship would kindle into something more--but that was before she heard that Cyril was courting the cruelhearted Lady Pearl. Now Mariah is willing to welcome him as a friend and pray he will finally be the heir her stepfather needs, but she'll keep her heart locked safely away from anyone with such poor taste.

Due to misunderstandings, Cyril Lightbourne has long avoided returning to Plumford Manor, yet he reluctantly arrives in time for Christmas. When his friendship with Lady Mariah reignites, he finds himself torn between his affection for her and her family's distance toward him because of Lady Pearl, a woman he'd rather forget. Then, more trouble arrives in the form of a Danish lord on a mission to win Mariah's hand by Christmas . . . and to disgrace Cyril in the process.

Inspired by The Nutcracker, this Edwardian-era historical romance is a tale of holiday spirit, love, and the power of family and friendship from bestselling and award-winning author Roseanna M. White.

MY THOUGHTS.....

Magical! This is the word that comes to my mind when describing this book by Roseanna M. White. It's set in England, at Plumford Manor, in 1902 and it has all of the Edwardian traditions: delicious food, beautiful decorations, and the gaiety of the season. After years apart, Lady Mariah Lyons is excited to see her childhood friend Cyril Lighthouse, but it may not be the reunion that she had hoped for! She's accepted that he'll never be more than her friend, but does he have to be involved with someone like Lady Pearl?

Christmas at Sugar Plum Manor is a sweet romance with captivating characters and a nod to the beloved ballet, The Nutcracker, but the perfect addition is the reminder that Christ's birth is the reason we celebrate this holiday today. We're reminded of this miracle and the joy and wonder that comes to those who embrace His birth as the heart of Christmas! It is a delightful novella that will put you in the mood for Christmas and its short length makes it a perfect choice when the busyness of the holiday threatens to overwhelm you. Who knows, maybe reading this engaging story each year will become one of your Christmas traditions!

I received a copy from the author. There was no expectation of a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Roseanna M. White is a bestselling, Christy Award-nominated author who has long claimed that words are the air she breathes. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two kids, editing, designing book covers, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of a slew of historical novels that span several continents and thousands of years. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to find their way into her books…to offset her real life, which is blessedly ordinary.

Being educated at St. John’s College (the Great Books School) taught Roseanna to ask questions, to value conversation, and to never accept the simple answer without exploring it for herself. She and her family make their home in the mountains of West Virginia where she and her husband both grew up. Roseanna is a member of ACFW, a frequent speaker at writers events and small groups of readers, and an unabashed email addict.

You can learn more about her and her stories at her Website Facebook Twitter Instagram

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Saturday, September 7, 2024

Astounding Truths of the Bible: A Bite-Sized Approach to Understanding the World's Bestselling Book by Annie Weber: Review

About the Book

Astounding Truths of the Bible

Author: Annie Weber

Genre: Christian Non-Fiction

Release date: November 6, 2023

Discover a transformative journey through the scriptures with Annie Weber’s captivating book, “Astounding Truths of the Bible.” Whether you’re a newcomer to the pages of the Bible or have grown up immersed in its teachings, Annie Weber’s insightful exploration will inspire your quest to unravel the profound truths that lie within.

Annie’s refreshing approach combines a love for wordplay, nods to pop culture, humor, and personal anecdotes to illuminate the teachings of Jesus and His character. These devotions, brimming with wit and authenticity, offer a unique lens through which to understand the heart of God’s message.

For those who find the Bible’s depth intimidating, this book provides a firm foundation for your journey toward understanding God’s love and His purpose for His people. Annie’s down-to-earth style serves as a bridge, connecting you to the richness of scripture. Through her words, she presents 100 Astounding Truths that seamlessly blend timeless wisdom with a modern outlook, helping you grasp the enduring relevance of God’s Word.

Prepare to be uplifted, enlightened, and empowered in your faith. “Astounding Truths of the Bible” not only demystifies scripture but also kindles a passion for exploring its depths, reinforcing your belief in the life-changing power of the Gospel.

Click here to get your copy!

MY THOUGHTS.....

In the preface of this new book, author Annie Weber confesses that she had never picked up a Bible until she was twenty-eight years old. I don't know her current age, but I do know that her acceptance of Jesus Christ and her continuing walk with Him has enabled her to write a book that promises to be beneficial to many different people, from new believers to seasoned Christians!

Astounding Truths of the Bible has been a special addition to my worship time. Weber shared her thoughts and experiences with humor and discerning insight and I often felt like I was in a personal conversation with her. Each of the 100 astounding truths is two pages long and they all begin with Scripture and end with a prayer. They may be bite-size, as the subtitle says, but these bites are filled with nourishment for our souls! Scripture from both the Old and New Testaments is shared and the devotions are conveniently divided into four sections. Want to know more about The Character of God? Check out Part 1. Longing to know God's Desire for His People? That's covered in Part 2. But don't forget Part 3! Weber labels it as Curious Parts of the Bible and it's filled with astounding truths that are sometimes overlooked. Finally, in Part 4, we're shown how God Equips His People. Twenty-five amazing truths of God's efforts to equip His people with the tools to live a life that honors Him!

If you're looking for a fresh perspective and in need of a new resource to help you in your study of God's Word, grab a copy of this book! Annie Weber may be new to me, but I look forward to reading more of her inspiring work.

I received a copy of this book from the author via Celebrate Lit. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

About the Author

Author Annie Weber is known for her bold and uncompromising approach to sharing God’s Word. She lives with a keen awareness of how the Truth of Scripture has led her to put her faith in Christ. Annie is a wellness enthusiast, adventure seeker, wife to Bryan, and mom to Lucy, Luke, Lily, & Levi. She enjoys beach time, fitness, photography, snorkeling, hosting parties, making people laugh, and exercising her social skills.

More from Annie

My passion and joy are found in helping people better understand the Bible, in bite-sized Truths. It was a clear calling from the Lord to write Astounding Truths of the Bible because I am well acquainted with my reader. I wrote to the gal who is not familiar with the Bible, but has a desire to understand God and His plan for His people.

At 28 years old, God redirected my path in a beautiful way. I was a new mom, home with a baby and found myself with some extra time on my hands due to the fact that I had a disciplined little girl who decided on a regular nap schedule. While little Lucy slept, I began devouring the Bible. I was so impressed that one book could include such amazing wisdom for life. I had never read the Bible before that time. That was 16 years ago, and since then the Lord has allowed me to use my gifting and talents to help explain the Bible using humor, quirky personal anecdotes, and my love of wordplay to help illustrate the teachings of God and His character.