The Message Women’s Devotional Bible: The Gospels by Eugene H. Peterson

                                                                 ABOUT THIS BIBLE

The Message of the Bible by Women, for Women

The Scriptures are meant for us, to draw near to God and discover God’s vision for us. This devotional portion edition of The Message invites women of all ages and life experiences consider what it means to be made in God’s image and invited into God’s mission out of our unique design. With down-to-earth insights into the experience of women in the Gospels, and informed by the wisdom of women in our contemporary context, this Women’s Devotional Bible portion expands our imagination for faithfulness in our time.

Often overlooked in the Scriptures are women actively participating in the story of God. Many of them are unnamed; many of them are only mentioned or alluded to. But the message of the Scriptures is incomplete without them. This Bible portion draws our attention to the insights hidden in their stories and the relevance of their lives to ours. This collection of the Gospels is a portion of the full Women's Devotional Bible to come, which will written by women of diverse ethnicities, backgrounds, and vocations,320 topical devotions,Special Biblical section introductions highlighting the needs and interests of women,52 profiles on important figures in the Bible,Space and sensitivity for women to engage difficult and sensitive Bible passages, Fresh and candid insights into often-neglected Biblical passages and personalities.


The Message of the Bible by Women, for Women

 

• Contributions written by women of diverse ethnicities, backgrounds, and vocations
• 320 topical devotions
• Special section intros and insights on often-neglected Bible passages
• 52-character profiles, including important women not named!
• 
  

The message of the Scriptures is incomplete without women. Don’t miss their powerful stories.

The message of the Scriptures is incomplete without women. Don't miss their powerful stories!

Follow this link to hear from the contributors and get your copy: https://amzn.to/3HdFquF

MY THOUGHTS.....

This is such a special Bible! Since it is smaller than many Bibles, it is lightweight and very easy to hold. The attractive cover, beautiful ribbon bookmark, and two-column format are pleasing attractions, but the real pleasure is its easy-to-read language! I want to growne and mature as a Christian woman, and I often need help in understanding God's Word. The Message Women's Devotional Bible succeeds!

Another plus is the focus on women and their important roles in the history of the Bible. Some are well-known, others are lesser-known, and a few aren't even named, but their stories are meaningful accounts that need recognition! The Message addresses this by sharing 52 character profiles and 320 topical devotions written by female contributors. Their insights truly make this a devotional bible for WOMEN!

Ruth and Naomi! I love this beautiful love story between Naomi and her deceased son's wife.

In this devotion, we're reminded that God is hardly mentioned in this book, but His promises are evident. Ruth's day-by-day choices turned her from an outsider into a true daughter of Israel, fully adopted as one of God's chosen people. 

Who knows what our story might do? 

The Samaritan woman is never called by name. Instead, we know her as "the woman at the well." She was harshly judged but Jesus saw her worth!

She was also an evangelist! She convinced the whole village to check out Jesus!Her story is a perfect example that the "good news is often told best by those we wrongly assume are unworthy. 

I am thrilled to add this Bible as a supplemental resource in my worship time. It would also be a wonderful gift!

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via FrontGate Christian Blogger Network. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

PURCHASE LINK

@FrontGateM #Review #Bible #DevotionalBible #TheMessage @theMessageBible @themessage #theMessageBible

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A Hundred Magical Reasons by Laura DeNooyer

ABOUT THE BOOK

Most fairy tales have happy endings, but is it too late for this one? After all, Mrs. Charlotte Rose Gordon, the disgruntled town recluse, is eighty-eight and has grown weary of fighting the dragons of her past—including the desire to clear her husband’s name of a 1918 crime.

Dragons of a different kind pursue Carrie Kruisselbrink.

During 1980, the summer of her private rebellion, Carrie defies parental expectations and pursues her café dream. While waiting for funding, she takes a job with Mrs. Gordon.

As Mrs. Gordon unfolds the story of her oppressive childhood and delightful friendship with The Wonderful Wizard of Oz author, L. Frank Baum, Carrie never expects to encounter her own fears and soul-searching.

In this modern-day fairy tale that weaves between 1980 and the early 1900s, Mr. Baum’s influence impacts each woman’s personal quests on a hero’s journey neither anticipates. Can Carrie and Mrs. Gordon find common ground in battling their respective dragons?

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

If you love The Wizard of Oz, dual-time storylines, and exquisite storytelling, you will adore this book! Author Laura DeNooyer introduces readers to a cast of intriguing characters and a wonderful 'what-if' and 'could-be' plot that features narratives from both the early 1900s and 1980. Yes, L. Frank Baum and his family play important roles, but the primary focus is on Carrie Kruisselbrink and Charlotte Gordon.

A Hundred Magical Reasons has romance, but the beautiful love story is the developing friendship between Carrie and Mrs. Gordon. Both had unhappy childhoods, but was there something else that contributed to Mrs. Gordon's bitterness? Carrie introduces Charlotte Gordon to the wonderful concept of grace and redemption, and Charlotte nurtures Carrie's love of fantasy and fairytales!

DeNooyer gives readers a hundred reasons to love this book! I loved the literary references, the touching life-altering friendship between Carrie and Charlotte, and a magical ending that I didn't see coming! I recommend it to all who enjoy inspirational women's fiction.

I received a complimentary ARC from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Laura DeNooyer thrives on creativity and encouraging it in others. As a Calvin College graduate, she is a teacher, wife, parent of four adult children, and a multi-award-winning author of heart-warming historical and contemporary fiction. Laura has served as president of her American Christian Fiction Writers chapter. When not writing, you’ll find her reading, walking, drinking tea with friends, or taking a road trip.

Learn more at Laura's Website 

All That Is Hidden

A Hundred Magical Reasons

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The Undercover Heiress of Brockton (Enduring Hope #2) by Kelly J. Goshorn

ABOUT THE BOOK

A Socialite in Disguise Seeks Truth and Justice

Henrietta “Etta” Maxwell is a hard-hitting investigative reporter for The Enterprise Daily. The catch? Etta must pen her columns under the nom de plume, Henry Mason—a fact that routinely puts a knot in her knickerbockers.

Leo Eriksson is a second-generation firefighter with a passion for rendering aid to those in need.
When Leo discovers that Henry Mason is really Henrietta Maxwell, the fire department’s wealthy benefactress, he agrees to keep her identity secret. After a sudden blast rocks the Grover Shoe Factory, Leo and Etta team up to determine if the explosion is related to a series of suspicious fires in the area.

When an unnamed source reveals Etta’s secret identity to a rival reporter, she falsely accuses Leo of being the informant. As the truth comes to light, Etta must persuade Leo to give her a second chance or lose the only man she’s ever loved.

AMAZON     BARBOUR BOOKS

MY THOUGHTS.....

Author Kelly J. Goshorn shares a compelling story based on true events that occurred in 1905. I'd never heard of the devastating explosion and fire that occurred in "Shoe City" or the repercussions from this tragedy. Newspaper reporter Henry Mason and fireman Leo Erikkson join forces to find the cause of the disaster, but there's much more for them to discover!

This is an intriguing look at journalism during the early 1900s. Socialite and heiress Henrietta Maxwell used the pseudonym Henry Mason because of the prejudice against female reporters, and her efforts to 'scoop' this story could be the break she needed. What would happen if Etta's identity was revealed?

I loved the budding friendship between Etta and Leo, and I was impressed that both of them were strong believers. Their relationship wasn't without conflict and drama, but Goshorn's plot allowed them to put their faith into action.

Mystery, history, romance, and faith! What more could you ask for in a historical fiction novel? I recommend The Undercover Heiress of Brockton to all who enjoy historical Christian fiction.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.


My rating: 4 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kelly Goshorn weaves her affinity for history and her passion for God into inspiring stories of love, faith, and family set in America’s vibrant past. When she is not writing, Kelly enjoys, binge-watching BBC period dramas, board-gaming with her family and friends, exploring historical sights, and spoiling her Welsh corgi, Biscuit.

To stay in touch with Kelly, sign up for her newsletter at https://kellygoshorn.com/my-writing/newsletter

Visit her  Website     Instagram     Facebook     Twitter/X     Pinterest.

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Splendor of the Land (The King's Men, #3) by Connilyn Cossette

ABOUT THE BOOK

Gavriel, a soldier in the elite company of Yonatan--son of King Saul--dreams of forging his destiny through crafting weapons with his own hands. Despite earning his place among Israel's finest, he is haunted by a dark past that no distraction can dispel. When his reckless behavior forces Yonatan to present him with an ultimatum, Gavriel is sent on a mission to persuade a distant tribe to sever their ties with the Amalekites.

Zahava, a gifted goldsmith hidden behind her father's legacy, lives in the shadows due to her physical affliction. Her talent, unmatched and unrecognized, is a closely guarded secret within her family. Disheartened by a love that seems unattainable, she resigns herself to a life of obscurity. However, when Gavriel arrives in her village, they're tangled together in a way no one could have imagined. As they navigate through unforeseen dangers and enemy threats, Gavriel must confront his past and either bend his knee to the One True King or lose his love forever.

Set against the backdrop of ancient Israel, bestselling author Connilyn Cossette breathes life into the Old Testament era with this exhilarating tale of redemption, courage, and sacrifice.

AMAZON     BAKER BOOK HOUSE

MY THOUGHTS.....

The King's Men are back in action, and this time, the chief focus is on Gavriel, a soldier with an avid interest in both women and alcohol. Could a twist of fate lead him on a path to redemption? Would a Kenite metalworker help him understand forgiveness and grace?

Splendor of the Land is a mesmerizing story with amazing characters, exciting adventure, and a reminder of God's power to redeem. I especially loved the swoony romance that bloomed between Gavriel and Zahava. Who knew that a forced marriage could turn into a joyful time of realization, as they slowly got to know each other? Recognizing weaknesses but rejoicing in each other's strengths. Relishing sweet kisses, warm embraces, and truly cherishing each other!

I always admire this author's commitment to sharing God's Word. Connilyn Cossette weaves fictional details with one verse from 1 Samuel 15 into a captivating story that often sent me back to my Bible for more truths. Splendor of the Land is a powerful story of grace and redemption, and I highly recommend it to fans of historical romance and biblical fiction!

I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review.


My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Connilyn Cossette is a Christy Award and Carol Award winning author whose books have been found on both ECPA and CBA bestseller lists. When she is not engulfed in the happy chaos of homeschooling two teenagers, devouring books whole, or avoiding housework, she can be found digging into the rich ancient world of the Bible to discover gems of grace that point to Jesus and weaving them into an immersive fiction experience. Although she and her husband have lived all over the country in their twenty-plus years of marriage, they currently call a little town south of Dallas, Texas their home. 

Connect with Connilyn at her Website  Twitter  Facebook  Amazon  Instagram  Pinterest

THE KING'S MEN

Voice of the Ancient

Shield of the Mighty

Splendor of the Land

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The Bible Companion Book 2 Leviticus-Deuteronomy: Review Book Tour with Celebrate Lit

About the Book

 The Bible Companion Book 2 Leviticus-Deuteronomy

Author: Karen Westbrook Moderow

Genre: Bible Study/ Devotional

Release Date: May 5, 2024

Do you struggle to relate to God in the Old Testament?

The Bible Companion Book 2 can help. Its simple one-chapter-a-day format lets you engage with Scripture without the pressure of schedules, homework, or heavy reading loads. Short daily readings and thought-provoking questions help you recognize God’s faithfulness even in your most difficult journey.

Though filled with unfamiliar symbols and rituals, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy hold treasures—the great promises of God. They show us the lengths to which God goes to be in our daily lives. Hard-to-read passages come alive as we travel with Israel to the Promised Land and discover the same God who guided His people in ancient times guides us today. If you want to know what God is like and what matters to Him . . . if you question His love for you . . . if you wonder how believing God can change your life, these books of the Law will speak to you. For personal and group study.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

MY THOUGHTS.....

I don't consider myself a novice student of The Holy Bible, but reading this book has shown me just how much I have to learn! The Bible Companion Book 2 covers the Old Testament books of Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy, commonly referred to as the books of the Law. This is the law based on the Ten Commandments that were given to Moses on Mount Sinai.

There's so much to discover in God's Word and this is the perfect resource for doing this. This companion guide is filled with graphics and Bible scripture provided by author Karen Westbrook Moderow, and I like that she ends each chapter with a Companion Thought. These questions prompt me to think more deeply and to study more thoroughly, because knowing and understanding God's Word should be my primary goal! .

I have been using this study guide for my personal devotion time, but Moderow offers suggestions for using it in a group study. The Bible Companion Book 2 is a wonderful resource for both new believers and seasoned Christians. I highly recommend it!

I received a digital copy of the book from the author via Celebrate Lit Bloggers. I wasn't required to write a positive review. These are my thoughts.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

About the Author

KAREN WESTBROOK MODEROW is a Bible teacher and author who brings a storyteller’s perspective to Scripture. She holds master’s degrees in theology and creative writing and loves introducing others to Jesus through the stories told in God’s Word.

More from Karen

Breakfast with Leviticus

My father was a pastor and a man with lofty ambitions. He was known for setting goals others deemed impossible then achieving them. However, there was one that got the best of him. He determined our family would read the Bible through from cover to cover—together. On January first of each year, a morning ritual of Bible and Breakfast began. On cold days, Dad would entice us to the table with his version of a Hot Toddy. We’d sip on hot grapefruit juice and eat while one of us read the day’s Scripture out loud. We read Genesis… Exodus… then came Leviticus. No one had the nerve to say the book was boring and we didn’t understand it, but perhaps Dad felt the same. At some point we gave up. The next year, we’d start anew. Genesis… Exodus… then Leviticus. The next year, same thing. We started the day with images of bloody sacrifices exploding in our heads more mornings than I could count. We never made it past Leviticus.

We teased my father about this epic fail, but he took away something from this experience—the realization that most of us need a little help with some parts of the Bible. He started writing short daily devotionals to help people get through hard-to-understand passages. Years later, I took over where he left off. The Bible Companion series is the fruit of that “failed” venture.

Pastor Floyd’s Grapefruit Toddy

My dad’s version of a teetotaler’s “hot toddy” is easy, delicious, warming, and great for sore throats.

• Squeeze juice from one half grapefruit into a mug.
• Fill to the top with boiling water.
• Sweeten with a half teaspoon of honey, if desired.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, July 29

Girls in White Dresses, July 30

Lots of Helpers, July 30

Tell Tale Book Reviews, July 31 (Author Interview)

Fiction Book Lover, August 1

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 2

Blossoms and Blessings, August 3 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, August 3

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 4

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, August 5 (Author Interview)

Older & Smarter?, August 6

Texas Book-aholic, August 7

Cover Lover Book Review, August 8

A Reader’s Brain , August 9 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 10

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, August 11 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Karen is giving awawy the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54261

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Final Approach (Lake City Heroes, #4) by Lynette Eason

ABOUT THE BOOK

Air Marshal Kristine Duncan is not on duty when a hijacker attempts to seize control of the plane she and her friends are on as they head out on a much-needed vacation. Jumping into action and aided by FBI Special Agent Andrew Ross, Kristine thwarts the attack and the plane lands safely. But as the investigation into the incident gets underway, Kristine and Andrew are confused at every step. Nothing about the investigation goes as it should, and each layer they peel back just reveals another layer of perplexity.

As the two work together to navigate a web of deception, blame, and personal reckoning, they find there's more to this story than meets the eye--and more to love and admire about each other. They'll have to put their skills to the test--and their hearts on the line--to unravel the truth and ensure that justice prevails.

USA Today bestselling author Lynette Eason is back with another edge-of-your-seat thrill ride as she brings her popular Lake City Heroes series to a shocking and satisfying close.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

I wondered, as I read the first few pages, if this book could measure up to the first three books in the Lake City Heroes series. I assure you, Final Approach is everything I hoped for, and so much more! Andrew Ross and Kristine Duncan take center stage as they investigate the attempted hijacking of a plane they were on! An investigation that's hindered by unexpected twists, increasing questions, and a startling shift in their relationship. How and when did their easy friendship evolve into something more?

Danger, suspense, and realistic emotions helped fuel my excitement, but the sweet romance and strong faith elements were the keys to my immense enjoyment of this book. Author Lynette Eason has created an amazing conclusion to her fantastic series. I loved Final Approach, and I recommend it to all fans of romantic Christian suspense!

I accepted a digital ARC from the author and publisher via NetGalley. There was no obligation for a positive review. I am voluntarily sharing my thoughts.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars 

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lynette Eason is the best-selling, award-winning author of over sixty books. Her books have appeared on the USA TODAY, Publisher’s Weekly, CBA, ECPA, and Parable bestseller lists. She has won numerous awards including the Carol, the Selah, the Golden Scroll, and more. Her novel, Her Stolen Past was made into a movie for the Lifetime Movie Network.

Lynette teaches at writing conferences all over the country and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), Mystery Writers of America (MWA), International Thriller Writers (ITW), and Faith, Hope, and Love.

Learn more at her Website    

Facebook    Twitter     Instagram

LAKE CITY HEROES

Double Take

Target Acquired

Serial Burn

Final Approach

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Trusting the Amish Farmer (Hickory Springs Amish, #2) by Laurel Blount

ABOUT THE BOOK

To start a new life together,

They must overcome their pasts.

After tragedy leaves her widowed, Anna Speicher is determined she and her young son will be done with farming forever. And the Amish community’s matchmaker knows the perfect bachelor to buy her farm. But strong and gentle Jeremiah Weaver is certain that he and Anna can help each other out—if they can work together. When he offers instead to make repairs in exchange for renting the farm for a year, Anna never imagined that he would bring fresh joy into her life. But is she ready to open her heart to another farmer?

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

Young widow Anna Spieber had definite plans for her future. She would never remarry, and she certainly wouldn't spend her life on a farm. Jeremiah Weaver dreamed of a farm and a woman who would love him, but he doubted this would ever happen. Their futures seemed certain until...God's perfect timing and His unfailing plan proved what we've often heard: never say never!

Author Laurel Blount kept me fully invested in this heartwarming tale of two wounded people who learn that broken hearts can be mended. I loved the characters, the surprising plot twists, and a very special matchmaker named Susie, but the interaction between Jeremiah and Anna's son Matthew was especially sweet! Trusting the Amish Farmer is a perfect choice for fans of second chances, clean romance, and Amish fiction. I look forward to another visit to Hickory Springs, Tennessee!

I received a copy from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my thoughts.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Laurel Blount lives on a small farm in middle Georgia with her husband, their four children, and an assortment of very spoiled animals. She divides her time between farm chores, homeschooling, and writing. She's busy, but she's never bored!

Laurel writes inspirational contemporary romance, and The Triplets' Summer Adventure is her ninth title for Harlequin’s Love Inspired. She’s the recipient of the Georgia Romance Writers Maggie Award for Excellence and has been a finalist for the American Christian Fiction Writer’s Carol Award, the Holt Medallion, and the New England Reader’s Choice Award. She’s represented by Jessica Alvarez of Bookends Literary Agency.

Whenever she's not working, you can find Laurel with a cup of tea at her elbow, a cat in her lap, and a good book in her hands. 

CONNECT WITH LAUREL:    Website     Facebook     Twitter     Instagram

HICKORY SPRINGS AMISH

The Amish Widower's Surprise

Trusting the Amish Farmer

 

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The Lady of Red River Valley (Ladies of the Wilderness, #2) by Gabrielle Meyer

ABOUT THE BOOK

By 1815, Arran MacLean has been working for three years to build the Red River Colony near Lake Winnipeg. Each year, the colonists have been driven out by disease, hunger, and their enemies, the North West Company. He's thankful that the woman he loved, Lady Eleanor Brooke, had enough sense to turn him down when he asked her to marry him. But her rejection still haunts his memories.

Lady Eleanor Brooke has one regret, not marrying Arran when he proposed to her four years ago. At the time, her father had been in deep financial trouble and needed her to marry well. Now, with her father in Newgate Prison, and a scandal hanging over her head, Eleanor has nothing left to lose. She travels to the Red River Colony as a teacher, hoping to rekindle her relationship with Arran, but quickly realizes that coming to the North American Wilderness was a mistake.

Life in the colony is dangerous and heartbreaking, and Arran doesn’t want Eleanor to suffer. He plans to put her on the first ship back to England in the spring, but his plans are thwarted when their enemy attacks, and they are faced with insurmountable odds. When the worst happens, will they have what it takes to fight for the Red River Colony, and for each other?

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

A favorite author, a preferred genre, and superb storytelling! Is it any wonder that I loved this book so much? Historical facts and fictional details are woven into a riveting tale of second chances, heroic actions, and unwavering faith. The struggles and hardships of the colonists during the early 1800s seemed insurmountable. I felt the biting cold and experienced the uncertainty, but still, through it all, there was faith, determination, and hope!

I loved learning more about the history of the Red River Colony near Lake Winnipeg! Author Gabrielle Meyer tells this memorable story through the points of view of two amazing characters, Aaran MacLean and Lady Eleanor Brooke. They had never lost their deep love for each other, but even their second chance seemed ill-fated. Was their 'happily ever after' lost forever?

If you enjoy exciting adventure, take-your-breath-away romance, and fantastic storytelling, grab a copy of The Lady of Red River Valley! I recommend it to all who enjoy historical Christian fiction.

I received an ARC from the author. There was never an obligation to post a positive review. These are my thoughts alone.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Gabrielle Meyer lives in central Minnesota on the banks of the upper Mississippi River with her husband and four children. As an employee of the Minnesota Historical Society, she fell in love with the rich history of her state and enjoys writing fictional stories inspired by real people, places, and events. You can learn more about Gabrielle and her books at www.gabriellemeyer.com.

You can also follow her Gabrielle on Facebook     Twitter     Instagram     Pinterest

LADIES OF THE WILDERNESS

The Fur Trader's Lady

Lady of the Red River Valley

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