Do not be intimidated by the size of this book. It is actually 3 books in one: A Clearing in the Wild, A Tendering in the Storm, and A Mending at the Edge. As with all of Ms. Kirkpatrick’s novels, this is based on real people. With exhaustive research the author brings to life the story of a young woman named Emma Wagner. She is a member of the Bethel colony in Missouri, in the 1850’s. It is a communal religious group led by Dr. Wilhelm Kiel. He is very controlling and domineering over every aspect of the member’s lives. I was not aware of this group until I read this book. I found their way of life fascinating and disturbing. Women’s dress codes were so strict they were not even allowed to have ruffles in their petticoats, yet the colony made whiskey for profit and saw no sin in dancing and drinking. Quite an inconsistency!
Emma’s story begins in, A Clearing in the Wild. She doesn’t fit the norm of the Bethel women. She is spunky and defiant of the strict rules. At 17 she falls in love with Christian Giesy, a man almost as old as her father! Dr. Kiel refuses to allow the marriage but Emma’s persistence wins. When the decision is made for Christian to find a new location for the community in Oregon, she convinces Dr. Kiel she is capable of going and cooking for the men. Unknown to anyone other than Emma she is expecting their first child. A secret she keeps until they are well on their way. The description of their journey, the land, and their hardships are incredible. When Christian locates what he believes to be the perfect place, Dr. Keil and the other colonists disagree. The couple faces conflict and rejection from the very ones they strived so hard to serve. Emma’s story is one of great faith, determination, and unbelievable courage.
A Tendering in the Storm continues Emma’s story. Christian and Emma decide to remain on the land they settled and live a separate life from the colony as oyster farmers. Life is hard but their love and the two precious children they now have bring them great happiness. Then tragedy strikes. Christian dies to save another person. Only a few days after his death she realizes she is carrying their 3rd child. With no family or community Emma bravely strives to care for her family and land. She refuses to join the new colony’s location but to stay where her and Christian settled.
Concerned Christian’s parents would take the children because they believed she could not care for them, she agrees to marry a man named Jack Giesy. The condition of the marriage is strictly in name only to make sure her children are safe. Sadly, Jack turns out to be an abusive man. Emma wants to runaway but has nowhere to go. Her faith in God is tested. This book gave even more insight into the suffering and adversities these people faced. Some of them were unbelievable and even more so that they didn’t give up.
A Mending at the Edge, Emma takes her children and flees her abusive husband, Jack. Her only choice is to return the Bethel colony and once again submit to the very tyrannical rules and leadership that she sought to escape. Dr. Keil commands her to attempt to reunite with Jack or be excluded from the colony. Emma works very hard to for the community and is in a position to obtain important things her family needs. Jack suddenly returns and according to the colony’s rules has the right to use the fruits of her labor for himself. Finally he leaves and Emma once again works hard to provide her family with a home. Yet every step of the way Dr. Keil continues to sabotage her efforts, placing heartless and unfair guidelines. She faces even more pain and heartache. Her faith and God and perseverance amazed me. Even under such insufferable circumstances she continued to show love and compassion for others and serve God.
As I have said before, Ms. Kirkpatrick is one of my favorite authors, but she has really out done herself with this trilogy. The story is riveting, moving, and intriguing. The historical details of these people and their times brought the story to life. I promise you when you finish the 1168th page you will be wishing there was more!
I received this book free from Waterbrook Press. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

This is an outstanding Bible resource for children ages 8 -12. Children rarely have a natural interest in studying the Bible. In fact it can be quite intimidating to them. It is our responsibility as parents, grandparents, and Sunday school teachers to not only teach them about God’s word, but also to encourage an interest to study it. The Candle Bible Handbook is just the resource to aid in this.
It gives them their very own Bible study book they can use on their own.
I loved the flexible cover. It wasn’t a paperback or a hard back, but sturdy and easily handled. The pages are quality paper than will hold up to lots of use.
The maps, illustrations, and pictures were outstanding! They were very colorful and gave excellent visuals of places and people being studied.
There is a chapter for all Old Testament and New Testament books. Each book of the Bible begins with a brief, concise, easy to read synopsis of what it is about. Also included are “Frequently Asked Questions”, things that a child would naturally wonder about. Next is an outline of that book, divided into the main parts that are covered and contains the chapters and verses where they are found. A simple explanation of what occurs in those sections is included.
A part called, “Look Out For”, alerts the child to important truths and lessons that occur. There are also “Study Questions” with scripture references for the child to look further into what he has studied. Scattered throughout the book are words that a child might not understand. The word is thoroughly explained and many times scripture references are given. In the back of the Bible Handbook these words are listed with the definition so they can be referred to without having to go back through the chapters.
Also in the back are more excellent resources. “Promises of the Bible” and “Fifty Very Important Passages” Are listed. I liked the use of bold print for the subject and italics for the scripture reference in these two sections. It made it easy to read. Last of all is “Who’s Who in the Bible”, where the most prominent Bible characters are listed with a small paragraph telling about each one.
This is a lot of information but each page is arranged where it is easily accessed. The title, Candle Bible Handbook is very appropriate. Psalm 119:105 tells us God’s word, “ . . . is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” This is a perfect resource for young, beginning, Bible scholars to find that “light”.
I received this book free from Kregel Publications. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Oddly enough post people never think about growing older, they just live in the moment. Unless the Lord takes us home at an early age we most certainly face day when we face those “twilight years”. Just as getting married or raising children, it is a phase of life with no “how to” manual.
Mr. Lieter does an excellent job of giving the reader insight into 10 temptations aging will bring our way. He is very through in covering each one. Each chapter shows the reader the damage they can suffer from giving into the temptation. You are just left hanging, because he also gives you information to conquer each one.
Mr. Leiter includes many of his personal insights and experiences. I was impressed with the in-depth Bible study covering each of the temptations. I liked the large amount of scripture that is included to help the reader truly learn and apply the concepts to their life. All the chapters include Bible Discussion Questions and scriptures to further enhance the study.
I can tell a lot of hard work went into the writing of this book. It is a must read for anyone nearing the senior years are already there. A wonderful book!
I received this book free from the publisher through theBookCrash.com book review program, which requires an honest, though not necessarily positive, review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR Title 16, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

I have long been an avid fan of Ms. Kirkpatrick’s historical fiction novels. This is the first of her non-fiction books I read, and I must say it was amazing!
The author lays her heart open wide and becomes vulnerable and transparent in sharing her very private struggles in being a caregiver to her husband. I applaud her courage to do so and help thousands of other facing the same challenges.
Just one year before my husband died my mother passed away. I had cared for her in my home for 4 years. When I received the book last year I had no idea I would lose my precious husband just a few months later. While his health issues did not require me to give him the same care as my mother, there were still intense responsibilities and physical/emotional demands that brought about a exhaustion and discouragement. I never dreamed when it came in the mail what a great source of comfort it would be to me those nights I lay in bed crying.
Each short devotional started with a scripture and must say each one was just what I needed at the moment. I didn’t just read the scripture; I read the entire chapter it was contained in. Then Ms. Kirkpatrick would share a personal story of her experiences. She was completely honest about how the fatigue and stress sometimes brought about feelings of exasperation, anger, and at times even resentment. I had experienced some of those at one time or another in caring for my mother, and was struggling with guilt I could not reconcile. She helped me realize that I was not some horrible person for having them. She offered hope through God’s word and sharing her most intimate feelings and struggles.
This book is a must read for all those being a caregiver and all the struggles and confusion that go with it. This would make an excellent gift for anyone you know who is a caregiver. It is a small book but very powerful.
I would like to thank Jane Kirkpatrick for the opportunity and privilege to review this book.
I received this book free from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Here is a link to her web page. I hope you will go and check out her other wonderful books.

Home

What a fantastic historical fiction novel! This is my favorite genre to begin with but this book was amazing!
Two young sisters, Genevieve and Aimee Gaillain, take a perilous journey to the Louisiana colony in 1704 as mail order brides. Their transport, the French ship the Pelican seems to be the answer to the problems they are facing in their homeland. Their father, a baker, became a martyr for their religious beliefs that went against the Catholic Church. Genevieve is also fleeing execution as a murderer for shooting a soldier to defend her family.
Scared but hopeful they embark on their journey in hopes of finding a good husband and religious freedom. They quickly find they Louisiana is not as promised. Instead they find themselves thrown into the midst of a disorganized settlement filled with filth and immorality. The men they have to choose from are dishonest and crude, even the officers. They must continue live in fear and secret concerning their religious beliefs. Genevieve has protected a portion of her father’s yeast from his bakery that she plans use to make a living as a baker in this new world. Her young sister Aimee is awed by the pomp and importance of the officers, failing to see their glaring lack of sincerity and character. Tristian Lanier, a widower who has nursed a broken heart for many years surprises everyone and asks Genevieve’s hand in marriage. Even more surprising he does so before leaving on a 2 month journey to encourage support and peace of local Indian tribes. His chances of coming back alive are slim.
In addition to the disgusting conditions of the settlement, lawlessness rules, especially in the corrupt leadership. Genevieve finds herself stretched thin trying to help the other suffering women, protect herself and Aimee, and living with the uncertainty and fear for their lives.
One thing that made this such a fantastic historical Christian novel is how the author included so very many detailed facts of politics at that time and the raw and difficult living conditions of the people. The story was fast paced and exciting. Do not read when going to bed at night! It certainly made me think about how blessed we are with our religious freedom today!
I received this book free from Revell publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

What a unique way to teach the fruits of the spirit to young children! Children and the love of animals go hand in hand. This combined with rhythm and rhyme of the words is a sure way to help children grasp and remember the principles of the fruits of the spirit.
A different pup illustrates each fruit in just 4-6 sentences. Just right for short attention spans and keeps the book moving at a fast pace. I was impressed with how well the characteristics of that trait are shown in the pup’s actions. Actions that will be easy for a little one to understand and imitate.
The illustrations are over the top! Colorful, cute, detailed. Yet another attention grabber for little ones! This is a beautiful hardback book that will be treasured by parents and children alike!
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

There may be more books on the subject of aging, but I haven’t seen them. I was so excited to read this one. I haven’t ever found many seniors that talk openly about growing older. I am 60 years old and I want to have an idea about what’s ahead; the unvarnished truth!
In many other societies, the aged members are respected and admired. They are viewed as an important part of the families and the culture. The youth worshipping society of the United States views aging as something to avoid at all costs. No wonder so many elderly people speak of feeling useless and not needed. I know God’s Word says that growing old is an honor and a blessing. Every year we are alive means God still has a purpose for us here on earth.
I liked the fact this was written by a senior. The many scriptures throughout the book are a guide to seeing growing old from God’s point of view. The author doesn’t sugar coat anything but addresses issues of aging head on: failing health, loneliness, the death of family and loved ones, dependency on others, and more. Mr. Arnold helps one see that these are not the enemies of old age, but our attitude toward them. Yes there are things we will lose as we leave younger years behind, but there is much to gain. Is the glass half empty or half full? There is still much to be enjoyed and savored, only not in the way we did in the past.
He even addresses facing death. Death is as much a part of life as living, and as Christians, the Lord is with us every step of the way, even to our last breath. As we trusted Him to care for us in our life, we can trust Him when it is our time to die.
The individual stories he shared about seniors who face their challenges with courage and joy were very inspiring. This was made even more personal by pictures of those people. This book is filled with hope and encouragement. It was beautifully and sensitively written. People of all ages need to read it.
I received this book free from Handlebar Publishing. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Fair warning! If you are going to read this book you will have to put your big girl/ big boy pants on! I guarantee you the Holy Spirit is going to convict you! It isn’t a book to be read just once or even twice, but many times and studied along with the scriptures. It isn’t going to give you a quick read it, fix it solution. . It does give you the tools to make a lifelong pursuit of making your words pleasing to God, written, spoken or even listening to others. Be ready to get serious!
I have read many books on the subject of the tongue and this is by far the most thorough and extensive. As soon as you begin reading you will think of someone who is offensive and cruel in their speech. The gossip, the slanderer, the critic, will all pop into your head, probably with people’s names attached. Stop yourself and focus on looking at yourself. After all, by reading this book, you are the only one you can help change.
Words can be a slippery hole of transgression we easily fall into, damaging not only our lives but the lives of others. The sad part is we so easily excuse ourselves, thinking it really isn’t that important, then “corrupt communication” becomes an
unconscious way of life. Mr. Sedler covers so many areas that one rarely thinks to look at. He also helps you view our communication from God’s perspective. At the end of each chapter are questions for self-examination.
This book is well written and easy to read. I like the multitude of scriptures the author uses to guide you, and also the answers he gives to help you apply them. A powerful book!
I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

If anyone has a heart and understanding for the children at the Raystown Home for Orphan and Friendless Children, it is Sadie Sillsby. She was once one of those children. Her dedication, hard work, and love for the children cannot be matched. While she is very happy to be assistant matron at the orphanage, she is looking forward to marrying her sweetheart, Blaine. They are waiting for him to save enough money to buy land for their new home. Everything is neatly planned out. That is until the head matron resigns to be married herself, as all matrons must remain single. Sadie is appointed new head matron and jumps at the chance, quickly signing the contract before even consulting Blaine.
She is sure he will be surprised and happy because her higher salary will increase his savings toward the land. Well Blaine is surprised, but he is not happy! He wanted to surprise her and he had just signed a mortgage on the land so they could be married right away! Blaine wants Sadie to quit her new job and she feels she is obliged to work for one year. Where would they find a new matron that truly knows the children and the orphanage in such short notice? He tells her she must choose between him and the children. She chooses the children believing it is the right thing to do. Both of their hearts are broken, each believing the other does not truly love them or they would yield.
Very quickly Sadie learns there is much more to being matron than meets the eye. Not only the load of responsibility for the children and running the home, but the severe financial trouble the home is in. The board tells her they must close the home in 1 year unless money is raised to meet its financial needs. She must somehow raise funds and keep the closing a secret from everyone! She also feels she must prove herself because is looked down upon being an orphan herself once. I could feel her pressure and frustration in trying to do everything in her own strength.
She still loves Blaine and the pain of their broken relationship never stops hurting. Then Earl, a dashing, charming representative from the Children’s Aid Society appears, offering his expertise to help her save the home. Is Earl all he professes to be, or has Satan sent his best to confuse Sadie’s affections?
Sadie’s great faith in God and constant prayer, even in the face of defeat and impossibilities leads her through many difficulties and uncertainties. This is a beautiful story learning that circumstances do not always dictate God’s plan for us. Through her trials and suffering Sadie grows and matures. She learns there are people she over looked as she had been overlooked and she judged because of their humble beginnings as she had been judged. Most importantly, she recognizes when you turn everything over to God, He can bring about the perfect solution to our problems in ways we never imagined. A beautifully written book.
I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Felicia Murdock is young, beautiful, wealthy and to say the least a bit quirky! She had her life planned out as so many young women do, and felt it was her destiny to marry Reverend Frasier. For many years she had worked at changing everything about herself, her dress, activities, and personality to become the perfect pastor’s wife. The story opens as she is returning from the reverend’s marriage ceremony . . . to someone else!!
She is of course crushed and devastated as she was positive it was the Lord’s leading for her to marry him. After being restrained by her own devices for so long, the real Felicia bursts out even more outlandish and unpredictable than ever before. The entire community is stunned at the beautiful, shapely young woman that has been hidden by her bizarre “modest” clothing, but not as shocked as they are at her unrestrained spirit!
Totally unprepared for such a dynamo of a woman, Grayson Sumner is persuaded to spend time with her to cheer her up. She is constantly putting them in all sorts of dilemmas, problems, close calls, and even danger. Mr. Sumner finds himself overwhelmed by her enthusiasm and spontaneity but at the same time becoming increasingly attracted to her sincerity and innocence. He fights falling in love with her because his past holds some shady secrets that he feels would not only cause Felicia to reject him, but more seriously endanger her life.
This book is hilarious, suspenseful and action packed! I guess I would have to compare Felicia somewhat to a Victorian Lucille Ball! I had such fun reading it. I found it very different than most Christian fiction novels!
While I was entertained there were also many spiritual lessons within the story. One is how we often make our plans and put God’s name on them. Then we wonder why they don’t work out! Another important lesson is that we are often afraid that if others know of our failures, they can’t love or accept us. When the truth is if someone truly loves those failures won’t matter. “And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.”
1 Peter 4:8
This was my first book of Jen Turano’s and I look forward to reading more!
I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.