Children's Sparkly Sticker Books from Kregel Publishing are fabulous gifts [Review & Giveaway]

Looking for quality entertainment that teaches little kids about the Bible in a fun, interactive way (even "sparkly") for colder weather "inside time" or for Christmas gifting? Kregel Publishing has an assortment of "Sparkly Sticker Books" perfect for this.

I have never seen a child that doesn't love stickers and glitter. Combine this with learning about the Bible and combining hands on play/education parents have a win-win fun activity for their youngster.

Pros:

• These "sparkly" sticker books don't "shed" the glittery stuff the way most glitter sheds. Just love this aspect, too.
• The illustrations are charming, fun, attention garnering. The text of the story is simply stated and not overly long for youngsters.
• Bible stories come to life at their fingertips.
• Talk about the story and what it means to be children of God. 
• The book also includes references for all eight story spreads, and words for each of the seventy-five stickers.

I absolutely love these sticker books and encourage you to purchase one, two, or more for children you love.

Bible Friends: Sparkly Sticker Book

Bible Wonders: Sparkly Sticker Book

About the Sparkly Sticker Books: Make Bible stories come to life in a sparkly new way! Now girls and boys ages four and up can finish their favorite Bible scenes by finding stickers and matching them with the missing spots. They will feel like they've made their very own book and will enjoy reading it over and over again!

As kids develop their stickering and reading skills, parents can join in the fun by talking about the story and what it means to be children of God. The book also includes references for all eight story spreads, and words for each of the seventy-five stickers.

Author: Jacob Vium-Olesen is the CEO of Scandinavia Publishing House and has authored several children's books, including My First Memory Verse Bible and Good Night God.

GIVEAWAY

2 Sparkly Sticker Books

Begins September 6

Ends September 30 @ 11:59 p.m. ET

Open to USA addresses only.

2 Children's Sparkly Sticker Books from Kregel Publishing, SRV $15.98 Total

DISCLOSURE: I received complimentary books from the publisher to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize books are provided and sent directly to the winner by the publisher. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook. We hereby release Facebook of any liability. Winner(s) will be contacted by email 48 hours after the giveaway ends. Notification email used will be that which is registered to the Gleam system.  Prize must be CLAIMED by winner within 48 hours or prize is forfeited and a new winner will be chosen. Author, publicist, or publisher is responsible for providing and shipping the prize to the winner. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

Harriet Hurry-Up and the Oh-So-Slow Day! by Allia Zobel Nolan & illustrated by Alexandra Colombo (ISBN-9780825448577) [Review & Giveaway]

My thoughts:  Harriet is a lively, sweet, God-loving little girl whose inner-motor runs on high and so she speeds through everything. Her impatience is a problem and she know it is. She is astute enough to recognize this and to also recognize that God can help her.

The illustrations show fast-moving young Harriet rushing through her day with her gorgeous red hair flying and her face expressing her joy in living.

The bonds of family are strongly illustrated in this sweet book as they all love and support Harriet. At the end of the book there is a page of hints to help parents and hints to help children deal with impatience.

I highly recommend.

About the book: "Can you send me some patience, God? Please?"

Harriet's mom calls her Harriet Hurry-Up—and it's easy to see why. There's nothing this little girl can't stand more than waiting. From a slowpokey sun that won't rise before she does, to the shy sprouts on her school potato experiment, to the long line at the store with Mom, everything takes forever for Harriet. Why, oh, why can't this day just go faster?

But with her Gran's help, this impatient little girl is learning to trust God's timing and find the blessings he puts in every single day—if she can just slow down long enough to see them. Secret word: patience

With rhymed text that kids will love and colorful, whimsical illustrations full of surprises, Harriet Hurry-Up and the Oh-So-Slow Day! will quickly become a family favorite. It's perfect for birthdays, back-to-school reading, and for anyone—child or adult—who finds that having patience is hard.

GIVEAWAY

1 copy of: Harriet Hurry-Up & the Oh-So-Slow Day!

Begins September 12

Ends October 10 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

 a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's copy is provided and mailed/shipped directly to the winner by Kregel Publications or publicist. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

All Things Bright and Beautiful illustrated by Jean Claude [Review & Giveaway]

ISBN: 9780825447655
Hardcover $14.99 (sale $10.99)
ChristianBook.com

I am strongly encouraging parents to focus their child's attention on the wonders of God and His creation and the love of Christ in His sacrifice during the days leading up to our celebration of Christ's resurrection. Consider a child's book such as All Things Bright and Beautiful......

My thoughts:  I just love this beautiful old hymn. Introducing it to children is the right thing to do. It teaches the Creation of all things. It teaches the power of God who "made them all." And it is truly lovely.

Colorful with minimal details, the illustrations have lots of items and discussion points. I would suggest that the beautiful melody of this hymn be played (YouTube or some other online version is an option.) so the child can learn to sing it.

The only fault I find in this book is that on some pages the text is rather dark and against a dark background. This makes it difficult to read. Truly though, this is a book I highly recommend.

About the book: Rich and lively illustrations bring to life a classic song for today's kids and families

"All things bright and beautiful, all creatures great and small, all things wise and wonderful--the Lord God made them all."

In this stunning book, birds soar, bugs burrow, elephants dance, plants grow--the whole world sings in praise of their Creator God. With the lyrics to this well-known classic tune, kids and parents can sing along. Jean Claude's charming illustrations are lush and lively, filling each page with interesting, creative characters and scenes. Every time kids open the book, they'll spot something new! They may even spot someone who looks like them gardening or picnicking with penguins.
All Things Bright and Beautiful offers a multi-sensory experience of sight and song, designed for young readers, but enjoyable to all ages. It's the perfect baby shower or birthday gift--and it will make any Easter basket complete.

Enter to win a hardcover copy for a special child in your life.

GIVEAWAY

Begins February 23

Ends March 21 @ 12:01 a.m. ET

Open for USA addresses only

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: Secret word: Joy - I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's copy is provided and mailed directly to the winner by Kregel publishing. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

Children's Bible sticker fun books from Kregel Publishing are super nice for kiddies [Review & Giveaway USA]

Bible Stories: Sparkly Sticker Book by Jacob Vium-Olesen, illustrated by Contributor: Sandrine L'Amour

Buy it Here
ISGN: 9780825448348

Find and place the sparkly stickers to complete Bible scenes!

The Debutante's Code (Thorndike & Swann Regency Mysteries #1) by Erica Vetsch

My thoughts:  I have such a good time when I read an Erica Vetsch book. Her writing style is delightful; and she captures the essence of each character's speech, actions, dress, personality, and flaws. She weaves a tale with touches of history and a bit of her own fiction embroidery to flesh it out.

As fiction, it is rich in the Regency period's social distancing and mores. Her characters stay within the set limitations of do's and don'ts, as well as acting and doing things a bit "out of the box."

When I first saw the title The Debutante's Code, I thought it was going to be about the rules of being a debutante and that which determines accepted behavior, dress, speech, and social standing. Little did I realize this was not what the title inferred.

I loved the mystery and how the story resolved. I look forward to more in the Thorndike and Swann Regency Mysteries series of stories. I rather expect to see more of the same characters in the upcoming books and just wonder where things will take them.

About the Book: Jane Austen meets Sherlock Holmes in this new Regency mystery series

Newly returned from finishing school, Lady Elin Thorndike is ready to debut in London society. Due to her years away, she hasn't spent much time with her parents, and sees them only as the flighty, dilettante couple the other nobles love. But when they disappear, she discovers she never really knew them at all. They've been living double lives as government spies--and they're only the latest in a long history of espionage that is the family's legacy.

Now Lady Elin is determined to continue their work. Mentored by her uncle, she plunges into the dangerous world of spies. From the glittering ballrooms of London to the fox hunts, regattas, and soirees of country high society, she must chase down hidden clues, solve the mysterious code her parents left behind, and stay out of danger. All the while, she has to keep her endeavors a secret from her best friend and her suitors--not to mention the nosy, irritatingly handsome Bow Street runner, who suspects her of a daring theft.

Can Lady Elin outwit her enemies and complete her parents' last mission?

Best-selling author Erica Vetsch is back with a rollicking, exciting new series destined to be a hit with Regency readers who enjoy a touch of mystery in their love stories. Fans of Julie Klassen, Sarah Ladd, and Anne Perry will love the wit, action, and romance.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions expressed are mine, alone and are freely given.

Persian Betrayal (Empires of Armageddon #2) by Terry Brennan [Giveaway]

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Watch for Chat With Vera's review, soon!

About the book: How much can Brian Mullaney risk to serve God and save lives—without losing his own?

 

DSS Regional Security Officer Brian Mullaney has been tasked with an incredibly dangerous mission. When a synagogue in Jerusalem is destroyed by an explosion, burying the second key prophecy Mullaney is hunting—and the deadly box that protects it—the answers he desperately needs are also crushed. How can he discover the meaning of the centuries-old prophecy now? Why are he and the ambassador he’s assigned to protect being targeted? And is there any way this lone man can thwart a nuclear arms race between three ascendant empires of the past?

 

An otherworldly servant of evil known only as the Turk is maneuvering all three nations into an intricate dance designed to undermine prophecy about the end times. And he won’t let Mullaney or anyone else get in his way.

 

Wounded in a bloody shoot-out, pressured by his wife to come home, and mourning the death of his best friend, Mullaney doesn’t need a powerful enemy. Who is he to save the Ishmael Covenant, the treaty promising peace in the Middle East? Despite angelic intervention, Mullaney wants nothing to do with his final assignment. But without him, evil will win the ultimate struggle . . . and humankind will have no hope left.

 

About the author: Terry Brennan is the award-winning author of The Sacred Cipher, The Brotherhood Conspiracy, and The Aleppo Code, the three books in The Jerusalem Prophecies series. His latest series is Empires of Armageddon, which includes Ishmael Covenant and Persian Betrayal. 

A Pulitzer Prize is one of the many awards Brennan accumulated during his 22-year newspaper career. The Pottstown (PA) Mercury won the Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Writing for a two-year series published while he led the team as the newspaper’s Editor.

Starting out as a sportswriter in Philadelphia, Brennan became an editor and publisher for newspapers in Pennsylvania, Illinois, and New York and later moved to the corporate staff of Ingersoll Publications (400 newspapers in the U.S., Ireland and England) as Executive Editor of all U.S. newspaper titles.

In 1996, Brennan transitioned into the nonprofit sector, spending 12 years as VP Operations for The Bowery Mission and six years as Chief Administrative Officer for Care for the Homeless,  both in New York City.

More on Brennan can be found at www.terrybrennanauthor.com. He is also on Facebook (Terry Brennan) and Twitter (@terrbrennan1).

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Giveaway is hosted at Read With Audra. Prize will be provided and shipped to winner by publicist, publisher, or author. Published by Kregel Books.

The Gentleman Spy by Erica Vetsch

My thoughts: This series of Regency novels is entertaining and engrossing. While they can easily be stand alone reads,it would behoove the reader to read them in succession as characters and plot, while different, are built upon book by book.

I loved the characters and the way they are fully developed by the author. You'll love them and despise them. The main characters are Charlotte who is the drab, intellectual, daughter of an Earl who keeps she and his wife on tight purse strings. And our hero of the hour, the new Duke who was originally the "spare" since he was a second-son. In book one circumstances invade his life and he becomes the heir 

An unexected meeting, first impressions, secrets, hasty wedding, and a plot that thickens while being woven through the  murky waters of the destitute in London and the wealthy social class and how they are tangled in a murky mess.

Dangers. Dangerous people. Lives torn assunder. And a plot against the throne. 

A must read for those who love regency stories. A must read for those who love exposing the dirty secrets of London. A must read for those who love good Christian values interwoven throughout the book.

Consider before you pass along to young readers: The story mentions brothels, prostitution, beatings. The story has the intense emotions of a newly wed couple but not any bedroom scenes.

About the book: He only wanted a duchess for a day--but she's determined to make it a marriage for life

When his father and older brother suddenly pass away, the new Duke of Haverly is saddled with a title he never expected to bear. To thwart the plans of his scheming family, the duke impulsively marries a wallflower. After all, she's meek and mild; it should be easy to sequester her in the country and get on with his life--as a secret agent for the Crown.

But his bride has other ideas. She's determined to take her place not only as his duchess but as his wife. As a duchess, she can use her position to help the lowest of society--the women forced into prostitution because they have no skills or hope. Her endeavors are not met favorably in society, nor by her husband who wishes she'd remain in the background as he ordered.

Can the duke succeed in relegating her to the sidelines of his life? When his secrets are threatened with exposure, will his new wife be an asset or a liability?

About the Author: Erica Vetsch is a New York Times best-selling author and ACFW Carol Award winner, and has been a Romantic Times top pick for her previous books. She loves Jesus, history, romance, and watching sports. This transplanted Kansan now makes her home in Rochester, Minnesota.

Learn more about Erica at www.ericavetsch.com or find her on Facebook.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions in the review posted here are mine, alone and are freely given. Giveaway is hosted by publicist and author and they will determine the winner and send prize/s to winner.

The Lost Lieutenant by Erica Vetsch - from Kregel Publishing - blog tour & prize pack #giveaway

New Christian Regency Fiction book  for you to check out and a fabulous giveaway for you to enter. 

My thoughts: I enjoyed reading The Lost Lieutenant so much. The characters were delightful and the author fleshed them out beautifully in word pictures you could see in your mind's eye. You could feel their emotions of fear, anxiety, or joy as the story unfolded.

The social mores of the time were well addressed in the narrative clearly defining the distinct clash between social standings based on wealth and rank.

I grieved for Diana for her dreadful life at home with her harsh, unloving father. I cheered on Evan as he endures the effects of his wound in battle.

The sweet romance between Diana and her lieutenant, Evan, was a joy. The reliance on their faith to bring them through their troubles was inspiring.

I truly enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next in this series. 

About the book: He's doing what he can to save the Prince Regent's life . . . but can he save his new marriage as well?

Evan Eldridge never meant to be a war hero--he just wanted to fight Napoleon for the future of his country. And he certainly didn't think that saving the life of a peer would mean being made the Earl of Whitelock. But when the life you save is dear to the Prince Regent, things can change in a hurry.

Now Evan has a new title, a manor house in shambles, and a stranger for a bride, all thrust upon him by a grateful ruler. What he doesn't have are all his memories. Traumatized as a result of his wounds and bravery on the battlefield, Evan knows there's something he can't quite remember. It's important, dangerous--and if he doesn't recall it in time, will jeopardize not only his marriage but someone's very life.

Readers who enjoy Julie Klassen, Carolyn Miller, and Kristi Ann Hunter will love diving into this brand-new Regency series filled with suspense, aristocratic struggles, and a firm foundation of faith.

About the author: Erica Vetsch is a New York Times best-selling author and ACFW Carol Award winner, and has been a Romantic Times top pick for her previous books. She loves Jesus, history, romance, and watching sports. This transplanted Kansan now makes her home in Rochester, Minnesota. Learn more about Erica at www.ericavetsch.com or find her on Facebook.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Prize pack is provided by Kregel Publishing and/or publicist, "Read With Audra."

Deep Water By Christine Poulson

ISBN13: 9781782642145

My thoughts: The world of pharmaceutical cures for disease is populated with brilliant people driven to successfully create Nobel Prize winning cures yet amid their world of glass beakers is the conscience shattering lure of the prize. We find that these driven people are still individuals with the hopes, loves, and desires of ordinary men and women.

In a story that takes the reader into the meticulous research lab and the daily detailed work of trial and error that is involved in research, the author shows the loving family side of characters. Little Chloe with her genetic code that requires daily treatments just to stay alive is a charmer that Katie can't help but fall in love with. Chloe's parents are successful in their own professional endeavors - Rachel a wood working artist and David a patent lawyer. But as David's past pushes open the door to involvement in a case in which his recently deceased ex-wife was lead counsel, a complication of emotions inserts itself into his life and that of his second wife, Rachel.

The moral and ethical issues as well as the criminal activities of life and death show the potential that big pharmacy could potentially drown themselves in as they pursue the high goal of  being first to develop a cure. A prize of recognition but mostly a prize of the mighty financial lure.

Breadcrumbs of evidence are sprinkled throughout but only the most astute can actually predict the ending in this whodunit.

About the book: An obesity treatment has been discovered, but before anyone can benefit, a dispute breaks out about who owns the discovery. David Marchmont, a patent lawyer, is asked to handle the case. There's one big problem, though: crucial evidence is missing--evidence that might have a bearing on the clinical trial two years before.

David's personal life has its own challenges. His daughter, Chloe, has a rare and serious genetic condition. His wife, Rachel, becomes friendly with a young researcher, Kate Flanagan, who is seeking a cure for Chloe's disorder; Kate, in turn, becomes concerned that her lab colleagues may be cutting corners on the obesity drug.

As evidence of mishandling mounts--then disappears--Kate, Rachel, and David find themselves caught up in acute ethical challenges and personal danger. Is biotechnology outstripping our capacity to make ethical decisions?

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy by Kregel Publishing on behalf of Lion Hudson to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own. I was not compensated.

My Advent Activity Pack (age+) by Juliet David from Candle Books

ISBN-13: 9781781282342

As we approach the holiday season (yikes, we aren't even at Thanksgiving yet!), I'll be reviewing lovely books and products that will make nice gifts for you to share. Today, we're looking at the My Advent Activity Pack (age 3+) from Candle Books which is an imprint of Lion Hudson. I always enjoy their children's publications.

The My Advent Activity Pack makes a lovely little gift for the small child so they can "count down" the days until Christmas and celebrate the birth of the Christ child. In this pack there is a small activity storybook in which they can place stickers (inside the pack).

There is also a "pop up book" that is the layout of the nativity scene. On the "floor" of the pop up book, there are flaps that the child can lift one-per-day. Also, some of the flaps are tucked into the straw roof of the scene. Underneath the flaps are figures and items involved in the story.

The little accompanying storybook provides opportunity for coloring, sticker fun, and story time.

This is perfect to have on hand so that December 1st the child can begin to enjoy and anticipate.

About the activity pack: My Advent Activity Pack by Juliet David, and illustrated by Lucy Barnard, is a fun activity pack that includes a beautiful pop-up stable scene---just peek inside and see Jesus in the manger! The scene has 24 windows set into the base to open throughout advent. Also included is a 16-page Christmas coloring book, and two sheets of fun and festive stickers. Recommended for ages 3 to 7 years.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Kregel on behalf of Candle Books to facilitate this review of my honest opinions. I was not compensated for this review.

99 Prayers for Children By Juliet David and Elina Ellis

My thoughts: This is definitely a classic! The prayers are rhymes or poems and simply endear themselves to adult and child alike. Included are beautiful classics from the pen of Robert Louis Stevenson to Francis of Assisi. Then there are new prayers and Scripturally based prayers.

I remember using lovely rhyming prayers with my children. This directed their hearts and minds toward God in a manner that implanted the thoughts in their minds. Rhyme is also a wonderful tool for teaching as it enables the mind to better recall.

I like that the prayers are grouped by category: for a new day, at bedtime, thanks to God, God's wonderful World, special days, etc. By grouping them the reader can more easily return to favorites or those being memorized. There is also an Index of First Lines which is an unusual, but great, addition to a children's book.

Jesus, tender Shepherd, hear me:

Bless your little child tonight;

Through the darkness, please be near me,

Keep me safe till morning light.

                                     --Mary L. Duncan

Day by day, Dear Lord,

three things I pray:

To see you more clearly,

To love you more dearly,

To follow you more nearly,

Day by day.

                                                 --Richard of Chichester

Some of the poems are in simple prose, not rhyming. This is a good way to teach a child spontaneity in prayer that comes from the heart.

Another delightful book recommended by Chat With Vera.

About the book: A companion prayer book to 99 Stories from the Bible with delightful illustrations in a strong vibrant style and prayers for all occasions. The prayers are a combination of traditional and modern and provide an introduction to family prayer time with young children, bringing talking to God to life in the heart of every child.

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy by Kregel Publications to on behalf of Lion Hudson to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.

The Methuselah Project by Rick Barry [Review & Giveaway]

ISBN 9780825443879

 $14.99 | Paperback

Kregel Publications

My thoughts: Historical fiction with a bit of science fiction twist to it. That is how I would categorize The Methuselah Project. This is the fictional work of an imaginative mind taking us into the realm of Nazi Germany during the Third Reich when Hitler was trying to rid the World of undesirables and promote his pure and super race. Hitler's goal (fact here) was to make sure his perceived pure race of Germans would continue unabated throughout the World. Now venturing into the fictional arena, the author has Third Reich scientists using captured soldiers with all the "right" qualities, on which to experiment and test their alteration of the genetic makeup of these individuals to ensure Methuselah type length-of-life.

Imprisoning seven of these men and subjecting them to the experiments, only one survived and exhibited the qualities they were seeking. That was the male protagonist in our story, Roger Greene. Alas, a bombing took out the lab killing the main scientist and destroying the majority of his records. 

Seventy years later, Roger Greene escapes his captors and enters the modern, perplexing world. His life is in danger from many corners and he must seek to find proof of who he really is. 

This is a pretty far fetched premise, but many scientific ideas have previously been in the realm of the unattainable and are now fact. 

I found the story entertaining and providing reflection on some of the atrocities that were and may have been committed during that period of time. The Christian aspect was there, but not overwhelming. The touch of romance that developed between Roger and Katherine is certainly well within what is acceptable for Christian fiction. A good book to recommend. 

About the book: Nazi scientists started many experiments. One never ended.

Roger Greene is a war hero. Raised in an orphanage, the only birthright he knows is the feeling that he was born to fly. Flying against the Axis Powers in World War II is everything he always dreamed--until the day he's shot down and lands in the hands of the enemy.

When Allied bombs destroy both his prison and the mad genius experimenting on POWs, Roger survives. Within hours, his wounds miraculously heal, thanks to those experiments. The Methuselah Project is a success--but this ace is still not free. Seventy years later, Roger hasn't aged a day, but he has nearly gone insane. This isn't Captain America--just a lousy existence only made passable by a new-found faith. The Bible provides the only reliable anchor for Roger's sanity and his soul. When he finally escapes, there's no angelic promise or personal prophecy of deliverance, just confusion. It's 2015--and the world has become an unrecognizable place.

Katherine Mueller--crack shot, genius, and real Southern Belle--offers to help him find his way home. Can he convince her of the truth of his crazy story? Can he continue to trust her when he finds out she works for the very organization he's trying to flee?

Thrown right into pulse-pounding action from the first page, readers will find themselves transported back in time to a believable, full-colored past, and then catapulted into the present once more. The historical back-and-forth adds a constantly moving element of suspense to keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Purchase a Copy or Read an Excerpt- CLICK HERE 

GIVEAWAY

Begins September 28
ENDS October 10 @ 12:01 a.m. ET. 

Open to USA Only

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Read Reviews & other info here: http://litfusegroup.com/author/rbarry

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Kregal Publications in exchange for my review. Opinions are my own. No compensation was received for this review. Giveaway copy is provided by Litfuse Publicity Group.

The Methuselah Project By Rick Barry - a novel from Kregel Publications [Giveaway]

ISBN 9780825443879  $14.99 | Paperback Kregel Publications About the book: Nazi scientists started many experiments. One never ended. Roger Greene is a war hero. Raised in an orphanage, the only birthright he knows is the feeling that he was born to fly. Flying against the Axis Powers in World War II is everything he always dreamed--until the day he's shot down and lands in the hands of the enemy. When Allied bombs destroy both his prison and the mad genius experimenting on POWs, Roger survives. Within hours, his wounds miraculously heal, thanks to those experiments. The Methuselah Project is a success--but this ace is still not free. Seventy years later, Roger hasn't aged a day, but he has nearly gone insane. This isn't Captain America--just a lousy existence only made passable by a new-found faith. The Bible provides the only reliable anchor for Roger's sanity and his soul. When he finally escapes, there's no angelic promise or personal prophecy of deliverance, just confusion. It's 2015--and the world has become an unrecognizable place. Katherine Mueller--crack shot, genius, and real Southern Belle--offers to help him find his way home. Can he convince her of the truth of his crazy story? Can he continue to trust her when he finds out she works for the very organization he's trying to flee? Thrown right into pulse-pounding action from the first page, readers will find themselves transported back in time to a believable, full-colored past, and then catapulted into the present once more. The historical back-and-forth adds a constantly moving element of suspense to keep readers on the edge of their seats. Chat With Vera's Review will be posted Oct. 5 Purchase a Copy or Read an Excerpt- CLICK HERE  GIVEAWAY Begins September 28 ENDS October 10 @ 12:01 a.m. ET.  Open to USA Only a Rafflecopter giveaway DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Kregal Publications in exchange for my review. Opinions are my own. No compensation was received for this review. Giveaway copy is provided by Litfuse Publicity Group.

Oswald: Return of the King By: Edoardo Albert [Historical fiction amid Dark-Ages Britain]

ISBN: 9781782641162
$14.99 Paperback
Lion Fiction

About the book: The second book in The Northumbrian Thrones series follows the young prince Oswald as he seeks to regain the throne taken from his family by Edwin.

The exiled family of King Æthelfrith of Northumbria arrive, after much hardship, on the island of Iona, where the monastery founded by St Columba has become a center of worship and learning. Amid the violence and turbulence of Dark-Ages Britain, the island appears a sanctuary to the hunted princes and Oswald, having become firm friends with a novice named Aidan, enters the church along with his younger brother, Oswiu.

My thoughts: I read the first book in this series, Edwin High King of Britain, and you can read my review by clicking here. In  Oswald Return of the King Edoardo Albert writes about the early shaping of Scotland, Ireland, Wales, and England. The land was peopled by clans and kingdoms constantly contending through conspiracies and war to maintain control. Families of high rank called forth loyal men to follow them into war to claim or reclaim lands previously belonging to their own kings or lords.

Oswald, eldest son of a deposed and slain king, wants to remain on the Holy Island as a monk spending his time in prayer, worship, and quiet but the Abbot of the monastery sees the need for Oswald to claim his right to be king because in doing so, Oswald will have the opportunity to bring Christianity to the pagans. So Oswald and his younger brother Oswiu leave the Holy Island and begin to rally their army to go forth and claim his kingdom. The book is subtitled Return of the King.

The entire story is moving toward the goal of Oswald and his kingdom. As it unfolds, the author's writing skill and strong knowledge of history is evident. While it is difficult to follow the roaming of the characters and to grasp their strange names, it is none-the-less a good read and pleasant. The subtle humor in spots and the turn of a phrase that brings speech authenticity to the characters makes the story enjoyable.

This was a brutish, pagan, harsh people to whom death and war were close companions. The world is termed "middle earth" by the people as it is between heaven and hell (or the lower regions).  The religious beliefs flux between whatever god the religious leader (each clan called their religious leader by a different term) claimed was favoring them at the time.

Edoardo Albert has given us another look into what life was probably like in the mid-600s AD.  The land area had been settled as far back as memory allowed and long before the Romans arrived or before Christianity arrived.  The characters in the story mention large stones from the old people who were giants (Stonehenge?) and of the large wall (Hadrian's Wall?) from the "time before."

Bamburg Castle in Northumberland, England

Of note, the cover features a stylized raven. The raven plays a major role in the story. There is a raven that is a "pet" of Oswald's. For a raven to "friend" a king, it bespeaks special powers for that king. The people are very superstitious and believe that raven's foretell what is to come.  And of course, the ever present dead on the battlefields being ravished by ravens.

A good read. There are bits of information online that the interested reader can pursue: http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/ancient/british_prehistory/iron_01.shtml http://www.ancient.eu/britain/

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy by Kregel to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own. I was not compensated.

Direct Hit By Mike Hollow

ISBN: 9781782641278 
$14.99 | Paperback
Lion Fiction

About the book: The jagged blast of high explosives rips through the evening air. In the sky over East London the searchlights criss-cross in search of the enemy.

On the first night of the Blitz, a corpse is discovered in a van in the back streets of West Ham. Detective Inspector John Jago recognizes the dead man as local Justice of the Peace Charles Villers. But then a German bomb obliterates all evidence.

Villers was not a popular man, both powerful and feared. As the sirens wail, the detective must start matching motive to opportunity--and it doesn't help when his boss foists an intrusive American journalist on him.

Jago soon discovers the dead man held many secrets, some reaching back to World War I. A lot of people wished Villers dead--and an air raid is a good time to conceal a murder.

My thoughts: This is not a fast paced action novel. The style is a bit plodding and yet very readable and one that makes the reader want to read on. The way the story is written, characters drawn and fleshed out, and the setting of London during the Blitz all lend authenticity and readability to Direct Hit.

Students of World War II history will recognize the Blitz as a major event in Hitler's war on Europe and England. London is a city beset with the life-toll of shortages, air raid sirens blasting, fear brought about by their involvement in WWII. Also running through society at this time is the strong under-current of brooding and breeding communism.

Amidst war and social unrest, life goes on for Detective Inspector Jago who is embroiled in finding who murdered Mr.Villers. During his investigation he uncovers a variety of criminal situations.

As a reader that enjoys historical fiction, it was a good read to see how Mike Hollow described London during these treacherous days. This story only covers a short period, but each day is eons long as the clock of war charts their course.

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy by Kregel Publishing to facilitate this review. Opinions herein are mine alone. I received no compensation for this review.

The Lost Garden (Tales from Goswell) By Katharine Swartz

ISBN: 978-1-78264-091-2
$14.99 Paperback Lion Fiction

About the book: Marin Ellis is in search of a new start after her father and his second wife die in a car accident leaving her the guardian of her fifteen-year-old half-sister, Rebecca. They choose the picturesque village of Goswell on the Cumbering coast and settle into Bower House, the former vicarage, on the edge of the church property. When a door to a walled garden captures Rebecca’s interest, Marin becomes determined to open it and discover what is hidden beneath the bramble inside. She enlists the help of local gardener Joss Fowler, and together the three of them begin to uncover the garden’s secrets.

In 1919, nineteen-year-old Eleanor Sanderson, daughter of Goswell’s vicar, is grieving the loss of her beloved brother Walter, who was killed just days before the Armistice was signed. Eleanor retreats into herself and her father starts to notice how unhappy she is. As spring arrives, he decides to hire someone to make a garden for Eleanor, and draw her out of—or at least distract her from—her grief and sorrow. Jack Taylor is in his early twenties, a Yorkshire man who has been doing odd jobs in the village, and when Eleanor’s father hires him to work on the vicarage gardens, a surprising—and unsuitable—friendship unfolds.

Deftly weaving the dual narratives, Katharine Swartz explores themes of loyalty and love through her memorable characters and strong sense of place.

My thoughts: As I began the book, it struck me as being intensely depressing. I sensed desperation, death, despair. I thought to myself that this was not particularly the type of book I would typically choose, and not what I expected The Lost Garden story to hold for the reader based on the description of the book. However, I persisted.

The setting is on a plot of land that shared a history with a monastery prior to the Reformation. The church, the vicar's residence, and a cottage for another feature the enclosed garden gone to ruin are the dwellings for the families of both timelines. While the author doesn't delve back into pre-reformation days for this story, it is two stories from different decades running throughout. This seems to be a favorite technique of writers which some readers find daunting as the story switches back and forth. It adds interest, but is not a favorite style of mine.

As I continued to read on, I found myself feeling the heart of the characters and of the village in which they lived. The cutting of weeds and brambles unearthed more than a former garden. This is a warm story but has depth of meaning and characters as everyday as your neighbor might be.

The setting is England (UK) and many terms and names of items and activities may be somewhat strange to the American audience. This does not detract at all from the reading.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Kregel Publishing to facilitate this review. Opinions expressed are solely mine. I received no compensation for this review.

Bible Dominoes By Juliet David; illustrated by Jo Parry (play and learn game)

ISBN: 9781781281550 - $9.99 - Candle Books Imprint

Description: This domino game helps children to learn about the Bible and Jesus while playing! It also encourages communication, sharing, counting, and matching skills. The pieces are large and colorful, so they're easy to pick up, and the pictures are clear. The set includes 28 dominoes with a mixture of Bible story characters, numbers, and animals to match, as well as instructions and a story booklet explaining the stories featured on the cards. A useful resource for home, school, or Sunday school.

My thoughts: Recently my granddaughters visited and I gave them the Bible Dominoes game to play with. Their ages are 4 years to 11 years old. The game is geared for the younger children, but the eldest delighted in showing little sisters how to play. They caught right on to the game and began matching colors, number sets, etc. with skill. This is a simple game that engages their minds and teaches them to follow the rules of the game. You can see from the following "game time" pictures their enjoyment and fun at  game time play.

The figures on the domino cards are characters and images representing Bible stories. These can be used to refresh children's memories of Bible stories as they play along in the game. Match colors or match numerals. Match items on a card. A variety of matches can be made.

Sweet, simple game for young children. I recommend!

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary product from Kregel to facilitate review. Opinions expressed are my own. No compensation was received for this review.

Lift the Flap Bible By Karen Williamson; illustrated by Louise Anglicas

ISBN: 9781781281307
Hardcover/Board $12.99

About the book: What's under the flaps? Find out in this collection of eight very simple Bible stories in a large cased board book format. Each story is told across a double-page spread and there are flaps on every page. Bright, quirky illustrations full of wit and color from Louise Anglicas are perfect for this engaging introduction to Bible stories.

Stories are: Noah and the Ark, Moses and the Bulrushes, Daniel and the Lions, Jonah and the Great Fish, Born in a Stable, Boy with Loaves and Fishes, The Lost Sheep, and Man Lowered Through the Roof.

My thoughts: This is a sturdy board book just right for those little hands of two through four year olds. (Well, I think the older kids will have fun with this book, too.) Candle Books has a definite talent for creating engaging books and other products for children. in Life the Flap Bible (Candle Tiny Tots) the illustrations are bright and colorful and the character's expressions will definitely tell the story's point - fierce lions in the den with a contented, praying Daniel. 

The "story" on each two-page spread is very simply put. Two's, three's, and four's don't need a lot of words when they have a story-telling picture book. The engaging flaps are large and small (not tiny). They are easy to lift for those little fingers. And they complete the story. For example, the little boy who helped Jesus feed the 5,000 had a basket of bread. You lift the flap and the food and basket are gone and the little boy has a happy "I shared" expression on his face.

Little children will be able to easily "read" this book aloud to anyone willing to sit and listen. Once they have heard the few words that express the story, it will be short work for them to lift the flaps and tell the entire story themselves to all their own dollies, stuffed animals, and friends and family that will listen.

I love that they can discover birds and other critters in the world-of-small on these pages. I think this book is a winner and that children will love it. And no, it isn't the Bible. It is a beginning to learn about the Bible book for the little tots.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate this review from Kregel on behalf of Candle Books Publishing and Lion Hudson. Opinions expressed are solely my own. I was not compensated for this review.

The Abbot's Agreement (Chronicles of Hugh de Singleton) By Mel Starr

About the book: A new and disturbing puzzle for the medieval surgeon-turned-sleuth

Master Hugh de Singleton is making his way toward Oxford when he discovers the corpse of a young Benedictine not half a mile from the nearby abbey.

The abbey's novice master confirms the boy's identity; it is John, one of three novices. He had gone missing four days previous, and yet his corpse is fresh. There has been plague in the area, but this was not the cause of death—the lad has been stabbed in the back. To Hugh’s sinking heart, the abbot has a commission for him.

With realistic medical procedures of the period, droll medieval wit, and a consistent underlying sense of Christian compassion, the seventh in the chronicles of Hugh de Singleton will delight medieval history and crime fiction fans alike.

My thoughts: I have thoroughly enjoyed reading Mel Starr's previous books in the chronicles of Hugh de Singleton. 

Just what is this newest medieval novel about surgeon and bailiff Hugh de Singleton really about?

1. Murder most foul and a whodunit in the Abby
2. Heresy abounding in separate quarters
3. Life in the monastery in all its mundane glory
4. Slow, plodding life of the 1300s and feasting on wheaten bread and foul ale
5. Desire for a Bible of his own leads to an agreement
6. A tale of forensic crime solutions before there was forensic science

What are my thoughts on it? 

1. I found it to be a bit more plodding than the usual Mel Starr books but life was plodding back in the 1300s. I usually find the Chronicles of Hugh de Singleton to be nice change-of-pace reads and this one was just that.
2. I found the vocabulary indicative of the time in which the story was set (without really going with the actual language and spellings of the time).
3. I found the details a bit confusing and erroneous – the foul murder took place on a moonless or moonlit night? 
4. I found the plot and subplot (different issues to solve) interesting.
5. I enjoyed it though do admit that it took me longer to read than normal for a Mel Starr book. Was this my problem or one with the book itself? 
6. I liked that the title The Abbot’s Agreement is multilayered and which is not evident until nearly the end of the book.

Read first chapter

Author: Mel Starr is an authority on medieval surgery and medieval English. Author of the popular Chronicles of Hugh de Singleton. He received an MA in history from Western Michigan University in 1970. He taught history in Michigan public schools for thirty-nine years, thirty-five of those in Portage, MI, where he retired in 2003 as chairman of the social studies department of Portage Northern High School. 

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Kregel Publication on behalf of Lion Hudson in exchange for my review. Opinions expressed are solely my own. I received no compensation for this review.

My Little "Life of Jesus" by Karen Williamson & illustrated by Amanda Enright

978-1-78128-131-4 | $8.99 | Hardcover | Candle Books  About the book: My Little Life of Jesus introduces the story of Jesus' life to 3-to 5-year-olds. It follows Jesus from His birth, being baptized by John, meeting the disciples and teaching them how to pray, telling His stories to people in nearby towns and villages, right through to His return to the heavenly Father. Illustrated throughout with adorable artwork from a popular Candle Books artist, there is also a map included to show the land where Jesus lived. This padded hardcover comes complete with a presentation page for gift or award giving. My thoughts: This little book is sized just right for the tiny hands of its intended audience. As an introduction to learning about Jesus and His life, this padded picture book brings just enough information to the child so that they can see that Jesus was a real person and lived among people. The illustrations are cute and child-like and sure to please the youngster. Frankly, I prefer more realistic illustrations, but I do recognize the value of today's styles of illustration. They are colorful and filled with details with which the young child can engage. The book begins prior to the birth of Jesus and says that Mary and Elizabeth were both "happy" at the upcoming birth of Jesus to Mary and John to Elizabeth. The Bible doesn't specifically say they were happy but uses terms like "my spirit rejoices" to expressed their delight. Happy is a term a young child can understand, though. I like the little map that shows areas where Jesus lived. This is an interesting addition for a young child's book and it presents an opportunity for beginning map study. When Jesus teaches his disciples to pray using Matthew 6, the "Lord's Prayer" is very simplified. I would have preferred the version most quoted and recited and believe that even young children can learn it. No need for simplification. The entire life cycle of Jesus is presented through His death and resurrection and His promise to return again. All-in-all, this is a delightful little picture story book for young children. DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Kregel Publishing in exchange for my review. No compensation was received for the review. Opinions expressed are solely my own.