Deeds of Darkness The Chronicles of Hugh de Singleton, Surgeon by Mel Starr

ISBN: 9781782642459
$14.99 Paperback
Kregel Publishing

My thoughts: As with the previous eight books I have read in this series, author Mel Starr does not disappoint. As he takes Hugh de Singleton, Surgeon and bailiff, in medieval England about his daily experiences we are given a fabulous glimpse into their the slow paced life and methods used by de Singleton to treat injuries and illnesses, resolve criminal activity, and interact with laborers, clergy, and family.

The books are not lengthy or difficult reading. The "tone" of the writing and speech reflects on what one would expect relevant to the times and sets the pace. Historical detail is interspersed in treatment of wounds, meals consumed (barley loaves and maslin loaves are in abundance), and murders and theft solved using forensic clues and evidence that were available in the 1300s.

In Deeds of Darkness the plague is past leaving the populace sparse with not enough to plow the fields, buy the goods in the stores, etc. But life goes on and Hugh de Singleton plods along the paths and across the streams trying to find out who is murdering people along the road and who is plundering homes when folks are at church.

This is Christian fiction and Singleton's faith is intricately woven into his actions and speech. The Church is Catholic with monasteries and black robed monks abundant and all people are by law required to attend Mass. This leaves homes unoccupied providing opportunity for thieves to plunder. And as admonished in Scripture, one is to have nothing to do with deeds of darkness but is to expose them. And that is just what Hugh de Singleton, Surgeon, does in this story.

A good read and one I can recommend. I found the historic references very interesting and Starr includes a glossary defining period words and terms used in the text.The frequent visits to monasteries for means of meals and lodging and Hugh de Singleton's respect for customs of the monks is interesting and enlightening. And Singleton's wit and conversational thoughts a pleasure to read.

About the book: To bring justice, Master Hugh must foil the corrupt power of great men

Many medieval scholars discontinued their university studies before completing their degree. Some lacked funds; others became bored with a scholar's life. Occasionally these young men formed lawless bands, robbing and raping and creating chaos. They were called goliards.

In Deeds of Darkness Master Hugh learns that the Bampton coroner, an old friend, has been slain while traveling to Oxford. As he seeks the killer (or killers) he discovers a band of goliards in the area between Oxford and Bampton. But how to apprehend these youths? They have protectors far above Hugh's station. He must deal with the claims of justice on the one hand and the power of great men to protect their henchmen on the other. 

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Kregel Publishing to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own and are freely given. I received no compensation.

Adored: 365 Devotions for Young Women by Lindsay Franklin & published by Zondervan [Review & Giveaway]

My thoughts:  These devotions are so beautifully written and point the young woman reader to a loving God who adores her. But let's start at the beginning - the cover. It is stunning in design, gold foil, and utter femininity. Love the dove which speaks of the Holy Spirit.

There is the encouragement to respect one's own body and treat it with honor in regard to behavior and dress. The consistency and steadfastness of God is brought to the reader's attention. The never failing love and guidance of God for the individual is tenderly brought forth. Truly a wide range of topics appropriate for the young woman.

The short scripture with each devotional is NIV and the text is gently addressed to the young woman (and it is appropriate for women of all ages) bringing her to the realization that she is God's beloved. God's adored.

I prefer the KJV Bible but realize that for many the NIV speaks to them. This devotional is one I can highly recommend and I can't wait to share it with my granddaughter.

About the book: In an ever-changing world, we can be certain of one thing: we are beloved by God. Adored: 365 Devotions for Young Women tackles tough topics girls face, from bullying and social media to friendships and dating, all the while showing readers how infinitely precious they are in God’s sight.

Each day features an easy-to-read, relevant devotion paired with a scripture verse and journaling space to help readers reflect on the day’s message. With honest, poignant, and sometimes humorous text, every page will speak to the pressures and changes girls face, giving them real-world applications to find God in their hearts and in their lives. Perfect for everyday use, Adored will resonate with girls searching for truth and guidance. Gift givers will love this highly designed book featuring a beautiful, foiled cover, and two-color interior pages.

Find it here on Zondervan

GIVEAWAY

Begins October 31

Ends November 12 @ 12:01 a.m. EST

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Handlebar Publicity Group on behalf of  Zondervan Publishing to facilitate this review. Giveaway is hosted by Chat With Vera in cooperation with the publisher and Handlebar. Zondervan is graciously providing the winner's copy, but hosting and selection of winner is based on entries solely through the Chat With Vera contest.

100 Favorite Bible Verses for Children by Tommy Nelson

My thoughts:  Charming is a somewhat overused word but it certainly describes this little book that is packed with whimsical illustrations and biblical truths in the format of a verse, devotion, and prayer that gives parents a grand opportunity to daily impart familiarity of scripture to their little ones.

John 3:16, Psalm 23, 1 John 1:9—learning these truths for the first time is an exciting moment!

Now while I personally believe the KJV is the best translation to use, this little book uses an assortment of translations. The key is to impart the gist of the verse and what it means. Parents can choose the specific version they prefer for any memorization and/or further impartation of understanding.

Let your little one develop the life changing habit of daily reading God's Word and devotionals that help him or her apply these truths to their entire life.

Snuggle time? Absolutely! Grab a favorite blanket, a beloved teddy or dolly, cuddle with mom or dad and learn to hide God's Word in their heart.

About the book: 100 Favorite Bible Verses for Children includes best-loved verses for children and parents to learn together. The verses are in various translations and are paired with fun devotions and prayers. Full of charming animal illustrations, this is an excellent choice for families who want their children to learn God’s Word and apply it in their lives.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the BookLook Reviewers program on behalf of the publisher, Thomas Nelson to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own and are freely given.

Museum of the Bible and Worthy Kids Publishing launch book collection for children [Review & Giveaway]

The Museum of the Bible has now opened in Washington, DC and it would truly be a fabulous place to visit and learn of the Bible's impact on the World through the centuries. And as with most museums, there is a gift shop and most children (adults, too) love to bring home something special to recall their visit to the museum.

Worthy Publishing has a new book imprint - Museum of the Bible books. This new selection of books will feature a variety of books including illuminated portions of the Bible, children's books, and historical volumes. I am featuring four of the children's books that will be found in the Museum of the Bible and in other places where you love to purchase books. And Chat With Vera readers will also be given the opportunity to win one book of their choice from the featured four books.

Children of the World Storybook Bible (hardcover; ages 5 to 8; 256 pgs): A unique storybook Bible that pairs one hundred best-loved Bible stories with artwork from children in over sixty countries around the world.

 My thoughts: Children love books with lots of illustrations that help them to understand the story. And children love to draw and color. Combining the two, you have this new Children's Bible Storybook with stories from the Bible told so they can be read by young readers or for read aloud time. Beautifully written text that is easy to understand yet not so simple that one's intelligence is not challenged.  

Some stories usually left out of children's Bible storybooks are included. Sodom and Gomorrah, The Golden Calf, Achan and the Battle at Ai, etc.  

There is a wonderful People and Places Index at the back of the book and a story Table of Contents at the front. These help readers locate stories and information they wish to read or reread. There is also a two-page spread of Country Map of the World at the back of the book that will be a fun learning tool and highlight.  

The Art: A unique and very important feature of this book is that the illustrations are done by children from all across the World. Credit is given to each and every child for his or her drawing with their first name, age, and the country they are from.

This is definitely a winner! 

What’s the Bible All About? (board book; ages 2 to 5): This powerful introduction gives young children a “big picture” understanding of the Bible—from what it is, to how it was written, to the stories it tells.

My thoughts: This is a highly unusual board book for the young child in that it presents the history of the Bible as it involves different faiths and speaks to the original written Bible being on scrolls. The manner in which this history of the Bible is presented is exceptionally well done for the young child's introduction to the Bible and how it in its various forms is for the Jewish, Christian, and Catholic Christian. Quite different for the young child but entirely appropriate and will provide parents of different faiths an opportunity to address with their child this remarkable book's history. 

I highly recommend.

Wild and Wacky Things in the Bible (paperback; ages 6 to 9; 160 pgs): This book explores the story behind weird and wacky Bible happenings with intriguing facts and bold artwork.

My thoughts: Laid out in attention grabbing microbites of information with short text giving the Wild and Wacky Thing on each two-page spread and the biblical reference for the story, there are other coordinated facts, activities, and Did You Know? areas of information that will add so much fun and learning of science as well as Biblical information. 

Mom and Dad will be interested in this wealth of information that makes delving into Scripture so much fun with lots of emphasis on educational entertainment.

That’s So Weird! (paperback; ages 5 to 8; 112 pgs): Geared to emerging readers, this fun and fascinating book of trivia teaches young children about the whos, whats, and whys of the Bible with a colorful, graphic feel.

My thoughts: Visually fun to look at with it's funny graphics and bold, splashy words, the book grabs the attention of readers young and older with sure fire tantalizing facts about people, things, happenings, and whatever in the Bible that are sure to fascinate. Presented in such an entertaining method, these pertinent bits of information will certainly lead to further discussion of the actual passages from the Bible (referenced with each attention grabbing fact) that enable the reader to know the full depth and breadth of what is actually involved. This one is a sure winner.

Now one of Chat With Vera's  readers has an opportunity to have a copy of one of these children's books. At the end of the entry period a winner will be chosen and then may choose the one book of their choice. Let the fun begin...... 

GIVEAWAY

Winner may select 1 book from the 4 books reviewed

Begins November 6

ENDS November 20 @ 12:01 a.m. EST

Open to Continental USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Publisher and Museum of the Bible Information - Museum of the Bible is an innovative, global, educational institution whose purpose is to invite all people to engage with the Bible. In 2017, Museum of the Bible, which aims to be the most technologically advanced museum in the world, will open its 430,000-square-foot nonprofit museum just three blocks from the Capitol in Washington, D.C. www.MuseumoftheBible.org  Museum of the Bible Books website

Worthy Publishing Group is a privately held, independent voice in inspirational publishing, based in Nashville, TN. Worthy includes five distinct imprints: Worthy Books publishes inspirational works addressing spiritual growth, biblical study, faith and culture, biography, fiction, and specialty Bibles; Museum of the Bible Books is a partnership between Worthy and the Museum, publishing books that reveal the history, narrative, and impact of the Bible; Ellie Claire produces beautifully crafted journals, gifts, and paper expressions; Worthy Inspired publishes felt-need, spiritual growth, inspirational, and devotional books; and WorthyKids/Ideals creates colorful, interactive children’s books, including VeggieTales and Berenstain Bears, for ages 2 to 8.

DISCLOSURE: I was provided complimentary books to facilitate this review of each book and share my opinions. My opinions are freely given without compensation and are not subject to approval by publisher or author. Giveaway copy to winner will be provided directly to the winner by the publisher.

Adored: 365 Devotions for Young Women by Lindsay Franklin & published by Zondervan [Giveaway]

Watch for Chat With Vera's review November 8

About the book: In an ever-changing world, we can be certain of one thing: we are beloved by God. Adored: 365 Devotions for Young Women tackles tough topics girls face, from bullying and social media to friendships and dating, all the while showing readers how infinitely precious they are in God’s sight.

Each day features an easy-to-read, relevant devotion paired with a scripture verse and journaling space to help readers reflect on the day’s message. With honest, poignant, and sometimes humorous text, every page will speak to the pressures and changes girls face, giving them real-world applications to find God in their hearts and in their lives. Perfect for everyday use, Adored will resonate with girls searching for truth and guidance. Gift givers will love this highly designed book featuring a beautiful, foiled cover, and two-color interior pages.

Find it here on Zondervan

GIVEAWAY

Begins November 4

Ends November 14 @ 12:01 a.m. EST

Open to Continental USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Handlebar Publicity Group on behalf of  Zondervan Publishing to facilitate this review. Giveaway is hosted by Chat With Vera in cooperation with the publisher and Handlebar. Zondervan is graciously providing the winner's copy, but hosting and selection of winner is based on entries solely through the Chat With Vera contest.

Murder in Disguise (A Preston Barclay Mystery: Book 2) by Donn Taylor from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas [Giveaway]

About the book: Official verdict:  Suicide. But why would that vigorous department chairman commit suicide? And did he kill himself to avoid disgrace from the impending exposure of his activities on the dark side became known? When visiting professor Preston Barclay questions his long-time friend's suicide, he receives threats. Press has enough problems already in proving his competence to students and faculty in the newly-hostile environment of the state university. For the new department chairman and campus radicals do all they can to undermine him. And the sexy female siren assigned as his student assistant creates problems there and with Press's courtship of his colleague Mara Thorn.

Press's questions don't find adequate answers, rumors accuse his friend of involvement in disgraceful activities, and Mara's researches reveal a wide range of criminal activity stretching from the community onto the campus itself. The more things don't add up, the more dangerous the threats become, and the more determined Press becomes to clear his friend's name and find the truth about the alleged suicide.

But can Press and Mara's stumbling efforts to find the truth prevail against the entrenched forces of the police, the campus radicals, and an unseen criminal organization that increasingly puts their lives in danger. . . ?

About the author: Donn Taylor led an Infantry rifle platoon in the Korean War, served with Army aviation in Vietnam, and worked with air reconnaissance in Europe and Asia. Afterwards, he earned a PhD in Renaissance literature and taught literature at two liberal arts colleges. His publications include three suspense novels, one historical novel, and a book of poetry. He lives near Houston, TX, where he writes fiction, poetry, and essays on current topics.

GIVEAWAY

Begins November 2

Ends November 16 @ 12:01 a.m. EST

Open to USA addresses only.a Rafflecopter giveaway

Watch for Chat With Vera's review on October 15

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Litfuse Publicity Group on behalf of the author and publisher to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own and freely given. Giveaway copy is provided by the author and mailed by him directly to the winner.

When the husband wants lime pie, you gotta make lime pie.....

My husband loves Key Lime Pie. I know we shouldn't eat sweets, but he is very "long in the sweet tooth" and at his age I pretty much just go ahead and have the sweets he likes on hand.

As for Key Lime Pie, and most other sweets these days, the "store bought kind" is what lands in our house. The days of cooking almost daily desserts are long gone though I do occasionally stir the pot a bit and bake a bit.

Right out of the oven! Want to dig right in but have to let it cool!

So I decided to make a lime pie for him going back to the old reliable product of "sweetened condensed milk" for the base.

A few years back we moved from our home of 40 plus years and I haven't seen my shredder/zester since. Maybe it was gone long before the move but probably not. Just one of those things. I tell you that simply to let you know I could use REAL LIMES which is certainly key to lime pie being really good and authentic.

As for "Key Limes," well, that ship sailed long ago. Or rather I wouldn't know a Key Lime from a grocery store lime. If you get my thinking.

First slice. Mile high meringue. Rich filling with signature sweet/tangy flavor.

So alas, the pie was made with bottled lime juice. Now the label said it was real lime juice, so I simply had to take its word as truth. I keep a bottle of real lemon juice on hand for various purposes like marinating, etc. Again, we have to assume the bottle is telling us the truth.

Now about that lime pie.....

All my recipes were in a jumble from that famous once in a lifetime move, so being the modern woman I am, I Googled it. Have you ever Googled for a recipe? Well, you get a zillion or so versions and you simply have to pick and choose the one that fits what you have in your pantry and fridge and go with it.

Day 2: Look at those delicious juices that form on top of the meringue.

Well, I didn't exactly do that. I sort of did and I sort of didn't. But I did make the pie and you've been seeing pictures throughout this rambling treatise of lime pie. And my improvised recipe follows.

Oh, you ask, "Did he like the pie?" Well, it is all gone and I can only say that although it had a lot of sugar in it, it was also loaded with eggs and milk and we all know eggs and milk are health foods!

Vera's Improvised Lime Pie

Filling:
1 can sweetened condensed milk (store brand)
4 eggs separated (use YOLKS in pie filling)
1/3 cup light cream
1/2 cup lime juice

Meringue:
4 egg whites
About 1/4 tsp. cream of tartar
6 or 7 tablespoons white granulated sugar
dash of salt
1 tsp. vanilla

Pie crust:
I used the purchased Keebler shortbread (cookie) pie crust

Mix sweetened condensed milk with egg yolks using wire whisk until well blended and then whisk until a bit fluffy (not whipped). Stir cream into empty milk can to get all the good out of it and then pour cream into milk/egg mixture and blend. Stir lime juice into empty milk can to get all the good out of it and then pour cream into milk/egg/cream mixture. Bake at 350℉ for 20 or 30 minutes.

Just before pie is finished cooking, using electric mixer beat the egg whites until frothy and then while continuing to beat the egg whites gradually add the sugar/tartar/salt mixture. Beat until nice peaks form when you lift the beaters. Blend in vanilla. Spoon mixture over top of hot pie and bake until a bit golden - 10 to 15 minutes.

Enjoy. And if I had a zester I would prefer to use real limes and 1 or 2 teaspoons of zest in the filling. Yummy!