Category: Book Review

advent, Book Review, Books, Christian Writer, christmas

BOOK REVIEW – CHRISTMAS VOICES  by Claire Musters

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You know when the cover of a book just grabs you, and makes you want to pick it up? The first time I saw Christmas Voices, with its rich red, green and gold Christmassy cover, I wanted desperately to see what was inside. The inside did not disappoint! Not least because the colour illustrations continue inside. But also because this little book contains a wealth of Christmas treasure.

Preparing for Christmas

The book is designed to lead us through Advent, and prepare out hearts for Christmas. Claire Musters gives us 25 daily devotional thoughts, in four sections, reminding us that Jesus’ coming is about The Promise, The Preparation, Joy, Peace and Love. The scriptures Claire uses aren’t all the traditional Christmas ones, but each ties well into the theme. With her words are challenges and questions to ask ourselves, many of which spoke to me personally. There is encouragement too.

Various voices

In between those reflective words are carols, poems and prayers selected by many other voices, some very familiar, some less so. These include Church leaders, ministry heads, and even some well known television personalities, all who come from a range of denominations and backgrounds. I am a bit of a traditionalist when it comes to Christmas music. Although there are a few good modern Christmas songs, lots of the familiar carols carry such beautiful truth filled messages. Many of these appear in the book, along with some less familiar and ancient Christmas songs. I did find one or two where the words were less biblical, but all made we want to put on the Christmas music, or find the less familiar ones on YouTube. The reasons given for the songs and poems chosen I found really interesting. There are some personal and revealing stories amongst those voices.

Light read with spiritual depth

Although I guess this book is designed to be used during the Advent period, I don’t think it should be confined to that. It can be used as a daily devotional aid, or can be picked up and dipped into at any time. I used it this way. It would also be a great book to have out on the coffee table during the Christmas period, for friends and family to dip into. It is a light read but not without spiritual depth.

Christmas Voices is a lovely book, and full of good things. Much like a well decorated Christmas tree, with its collections of old and new decorations, lights and treats, there is something for everyone to enjoy. And it looks good too!

Christmas Voices by Claire Musters www.clairemusters.com

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ BRF (The Bible Reading Fellowship) (22 Sept. 2023)
  • Paperback ‏ : ‎ 160 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1800392303
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1800392304

Available from Amazon and all good booksellers. Or direct from the author.

Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power. Her debut novel ‘The Healing‘ was published by Instant Apostle on 19 March 2021. ‘The Pilgrim‘, her second full length novel, was published by Instant Apostle on 22 July 2022, and her third novel ‘The Bride’ will be published on 20th October 2023. She also has her first non-fiction book, an Advent Devotional called ‘Christ Illuminated‘, being published by Kevin Mayhew this autumn.

More information on Joy, and her books can be found here www.joymargetts.com



Blog Tour, Book Review, Books, Children's fiction, Christian Writer, Jenny Sanders

BOOK REVIEW: CHARLIE PEACH’S PUMPKINS and other stories, by Jenny Sanders

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Image of front cover of Charlie Peach's Pumpkins. Bright orange with black line cartoon drawings of pumpkins, and the titles in green

In June of last year I was so thrilled to be able to support a good writer friend as she bravely published her first book for children. Jenny Sanders writes seriously thought provoking Christian non-fiction for adults, so to discover she had a talent for writing funny for children was a delight. I said of her first children’s book, The Magnificent Moustache and other stories’ that it was

‘A book of funny stories for younger readers, that will also make adults snigger.’

Her second book ‘Charlie Peach’s Pumpkins and other stories’ definitely lives up to the same description. I am so happy to be able to review it for you as part of Jenny’s blog tour.

Full cover image of Charlie Peach's pumpkins

PURE FUN

Jenny’s stories are funny, sometimes laugh out loud funny, but more often quietly amusing, and always verging on the ridiculous. This second book, as the first, contains six separate stories. Each one would be suitable for reading together at bedtime, or for a child to read alone. There are no nasties – no dark themes, no scary monsters, no unhappy endings. They are just pure fun, completely family friendly, affirming and entertaining. Again Jenny has come up with the most ingenious character names and wildly imaginative storylines. And they hook you in.

SIX STORIES

The title story in Charlie Peach’s Pumpkins, is all about – yes you’ve guessed it – Charlie Peach and his pumpkins. Determined to become famous in his small corner of the English countryside, Charlie Peach sets out to become a champion vegetable grower. With twists and turns along the way he finds himself becoming a local celebrity, and garnering international fans.

In Wooing Carletia, the incoming Ambassador discovers he has inherited both a dilapidated embassy and no funds to entertain the dignitaries of Carletia – much ingenious reusing and recycling ensues, including the inspired use of kazoos.

The Beasley- Babbingtons also have inheritance problems -what to do with a half-ruined castle. and in Sovereign Secrets a pair of bored monarchs branch out and discover new hobbies which ultimately bring them together in a most surprising ways. The Surprising Power of Cake is all about that. For who can deny how powerful cake is in bringing people to your door?

A GREAT READ

My absolute favourite of the stories in this book is The Viticulture Venture. If you had to look up what ‘viticulture’ means, then so did I! Jenny does not shy away from using words that might expand her young readers’ vocabulary. In this story a savvy teenager saves his wine evening hosting Grandad from embarrassment by coming up with his own concoctions made from what he can find in the kitchen store cupboard. The story is hilarious, and surprisingly good – just like the pretend ‘wine’.

I can highly recommend Charlie Peach’s Pumpkins to you. It is a great read and the witty writing is marvellously enhanced by Amanda Young’s incredible illustrations. Who doesn’t need a little bit of light relief? And a good old laugh from time to time?

Black line drawing, cartoon style of large pumpkins, with the words 'pumpkin party'. By Illustrator Amanda Young

Charlie Peach’s Pumpkins and other stories Published by: The Conrad Press

ISBN number: 978-1915494900

RRP: £10.99

Available as a paperback, via Amazon , and on order at all good bookshops. Or purchase direct from the author:

Photo image of author Jenny Sanders

You can find and contact the author, Jenny Sanders in the following places:

www.jennysanderswriter.co.uk

Facebook: Jenny Sanders – writer

Instagram: @jennysanderswriter 

Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power. Her debut novel ‘The Healing‘ was published by Instant Apostle on 19 March 2021. ‘The Pilgrim‘, her second full length novel, was published by Instant Apostle on 22 July 2022, and her third novel ‘The Bride’ will be published on 20th October 2023. She also has her first non-fiction book, an Advent Devotional called ‘Christ Illuminated‘, being published by Kevin Mayhew this autumn.

More information on Joy, and her books can be found here www.joymargetts.com

advent, Bible, Blog Tour, Book Review, Books, Christian Writer, christmas, Glorifying Jesus, Jesus, Rachel Yarworth, The Word of God

BOOK REVIEW: THE JESSE TREE ANTHOLOGY Compiled by Rachel Yarworth

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Graphic with the cover of The Jesse Tree Anthology, alongside a list of dates and names for the Blog Tour

I am thrilled to be able to take part in the Blog Tour for this exciting new Advent Resource. Especially thrilled because I have the joy of being one of the contributors! So this review is not biased in any way, honest!

A Good God idea

Many months ago, Rachel Yarworth had an idea, and shared it with a group known as the Association of Christian Writers. She wasn’t sure if it was a good idea, but it so happens that quite a few other people thought it was actually an excellent idea, as they readily signed up to be involved. I believe that Rachel’s good idea was a God idea, and one that has resulted in this really beautiful book.

The Jesse Tree

What was her idea? Well she had the vision for producing a family friendly devotional style book, that could be used during Advent. It would be based on the idea of the Jesse Tree – traditionally a pictorial or physical  representation of a tree with its branches that helps to tell the story of the Bible from creation right up until to the nativity of Christ. Although Jesse was a direct ancestor of Jesus, the Jesse Tree is more than just the physical lineage of Jesus. It is a study of how the people and the events of the Old Testament all point towards His coming.

Image shows the full front and back cover of The Jesse Tree Anthology

25 Fabulous Writers

But Rachel did not want to do this on her own and so asked if people would be willing to contribute to one of the 25 daily studies that would make up the whole. Before long she had 25 fabulous Christian Writers* keen to take part. The result is a wonderful collection of different voices, telling different stories, and adding their own insights and flavour to them. Every one of the contributors love Jesus, and that is so obvious in their writing.

Family friendly

 The daily thoughts are short, and written in accessible language, so they are great for family use, and for those new to, or just exploring the Christian faith. After each story are some thoughtful questions to ponder and discuss together. And then to top it all there are beautiful stained glass images to colour and cut out so that families can make their own Jesse Trees. If you don’t want to cut up the book these Jesse Tree decorations can also be downloaded from Rachel’s Website here.

Graphic with examples of the colourful decorations for making your own Jesse Tree, alongside the image of the front cover.

God’s Extraordinary Plan

What does Noah’s ark have to do with Jesus? Or Abraham and Isaac? Or Jacob’s ladder, or Rahab’s scarlet rope? Why did God give the prophets things to say that didn’t make sense at the time they were living? Or use the most unlikely people to become the physical ancestors of Jesus? The Jesse Tree Anthology takes us in a wonderful journey from creation to Christmas, and opens our eyes to God’s extraordinary extravagantly detailed plan to bring Salvation to the world in the person of Jesus.

A Valuable Resource

Rachel has done a fabulous job of drawing the Anthology together and getting it published. The themes, the questions, the artwork and the glorious cover are all due to her hard work and commitment to her original vision. I can so heartily recommend The Jesse Tree Anthology to you. It is far more than a book; it is a valuable resource that can be used over and over again, and will bring Jesus into the centre of Christmas for families everywhere.

The Jesse Tree Anthology  ISBN 978-1739257712 RRP £8.99 can be purchased via Amazon or direct from Rachel’s website at https://rachelyarworthwriter.uk/books/

I will also have a few signed copies available to sell myself. Contact me if you are interested.

*Contributors include: Liz Carter, Maressa Mortimer, Natasha Woodcraft, Jocelyn-Anne Harvey, Rob Seabrook, Emily Owen, Claire Musters. Sheelagh Aston, Joanna Watson, Shaoan Hazel, Liz Manning, Matt McChlery, Lesley Crawford, Alex Banwell, Olusola Sophia Anyanwu, Joy Margetts, Joy Vee, Ruth Leigh, Jonathon Bugden, Jo Acharya, Anne Calver, Jenny Sanders, Fay Rowlands, Rowena Cross, Rachel Yarworth

Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power. Her debut novel ‘The Healing‘ was published by Instant Apostle on 19 March 2021. ‘The Pilgrim‘, her second full length novel, was published by Instant Apostle on 22 July 2022, and her third novel ‘The Bride’ will be published on 20th October 2023. She also has her first non-fiction book, an Advent Devotional called ‘Christ Illuminated‘, being published by Kevin Mayhew this autumn.

More information on Joy, and her books can be found here www.joymargetts.com

Book Review, Books, Children's fiction, christian fiction, Christian publishing, Christian Writer, Faith, Joy Vee, The Word of God, Valuable to God

BOOK REVIEW: JOY VEE – Two Fabulous New Children’s Books

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Photograph of Joy Vee's two new books, Left Out Sienna?, and Benaiah and The Kindness Tree.

I am very pleased to be able to recommend these two new books by Joy Vee. Joy has such a gift for writing stories that are engaging, relevant, and more than anything, full of truth and life. Her characters and their adventures draw you in, but it is the lessons that they learn, and the deep spiritual truths behind those lessons, that stay with you. And that is whether you are a child, or an adult reading these books with a child. The wisdom that Joy’s books carry is God-given and I believe has the power to be life transforming.

Left Out Sienna?

Image of front cover of 'Left out Sienna' featuring a colourful cartoon drawing of a child's hands writing in a journal

Left Out Sienna? is the Joy’s third book featuring Sienna and her family (following on from The Treasure Man, and Love From Sienna). Sienna is used to having great ideas and a group of friends to share them with. But when she finds those friends pulling back from her, lying to her and excluding her, she is forced to confront what it feels like to be left out. Along with the hurt she is feeling she also has to examine her own part in the breakdown of her relationships. With the help of her amazing Kid’s Church leader, her Mum, and words that God Himself wrote, Sienna begins to learn a very important lesson. One that applies to us all, whatever age we are.

Image of back cover of Left Out Sienna?

There is a scene in the book involving boxes, boots and doughnuts. I won’t spoil it for you by saying more, but it has stayed with me. If only we could learn alongside Sienna that what God says about us is far more important than worrying about what others think of us.

This is a timely book for a generation of children growing up under the bombardment of internet influencers telling them what to look like and how to behave to fit in. It is a balm for every one of us who has grown up knowing what it feels like to be rejected or sidelined. I loved this book so much. A simple story that carries profound and potentially life changing truth.

Benaiah and the Kindness Tree

Photo of the front cover of Benaiah and The Kindness Tree, featuring a colourful cartoon image of a young boy holding a leaf, with a tree behind him.

This little book for younger readers is just gorgeous in every way. From Lee Dixon’s stunning full colour illustrations to Joy’s beautifully told tale, it is just lovely. Benaiah discovers what he believes to be a very special tree, and comes to beleive that a leaf from the tree carried in his pocket has the ability to make him super kind at school. But is it the tree making him kind, or is there another reason why Benaiah finds it so easy to be both grateful and kind? And how can his friend Kaiyah-Rose learn kindness too?

Photo of inside pages of Benaiah and The Kindness Tree, with colourful illustrations and easy to read text.

Benaiah’s simply told story is designed to engender conversation about being kind, and how to make kindness a habit. It also points to the One who is ultimately kind, good and loving to show us how. As a parent I wish there had been more books around like this one when my children were small. As a grandparent I now have the joy of sharing this one with my grandson. He may be little, but little people can learn big truths; truths that can help them live life to the fullness and impact them to be the people God calls them to be.

For All the Family

Joy’s heart in writing her books isn’t just to produce well written Christian story books for children. Each book she produces is a resource – a means for helping families to talk through big issues and to seek God’s heart together. They can also be adapted for use in teaching Sunday school classes. At the end of Left Out Sienna are suggested questions to discuss relating to each chapter in the book.

With Benaiah and The Kindness Tree, Joy has gone one step further. On her website there is a whole page with downloadable pictures and resources for parents and educators. You can find that here https://www.joyvee.org/kindnesstree

All of Joy Vee’s books are available on Amazon.co.uk but can also be found on Joy’s website https://www.joyvee.org/shop where you will find Left Out Sienna priced at £7 and Benaiah and The Kindness Tree priced at £7 for the smaller book, and £10 for a larger sized book. Both versions of Benaiah and The Kindness Tree come with a free Audiobook.

Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power. Her debut novel ‘The Healing‘ was published by Instant Apostle on 19 March 2021. ‘The Pilgrim‘, her second full length novel, was published by Instant Apostle on 22 July 2022, and her third novel ‘The Bride’ will be published on 20th October 2023. She also has her first non-fiction book, an Advent Devotional called ‘Christ Illuminated‘, being published by Kevin Mayhew this autumn.

More information on Joy, and her books can be found here www.joymargetts.com

Book Review, Books, Christian faith, Christian publishing, Christian Writer, Healing, Holy Spirit, Unashamed, Valuable to God

BOOK REVIEW: UNASHAMED by Tracy Williamson

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Unashamed: Discover the Healing Power of God’s Love for Your Wounded Soul

Image of front cover of Unashamed. It is a deep indigo colour with gold text and butterflies.

What a privilege it has been to be able to read a pre-publication version of this beautiful book and to have been asked to be part of the team to help launch it into the world. It is published today, 8th September 2023, by Authentic Media.

In Unashamed Tracy has done something truly brave, in opening up her heart and sharing her own story with us. This book is a declaration – that God can take us with all of our messes, and can minister to us, heal us, and redeem us. So that we can stand unashamed – of who we might have been, of who we are now, of what might have been done to us, of what we are still tempted to do. God has an answer for all of the things that we hold as questions over our own lives.  Do I have any worth? Do I have anything to give? Can I walk free of my past? Can I walk into my future leaving my shame, guilt and offense behind me? Does God really have a plan and a purpose for me?

Tackling Big Issues

Endorsement from Patrick Regan: This could be one of the most important books you have ever read. Understanding its message will be life transforming.

Tracy takes us gently through some big issues in this book. Themes surrounding identity, despair, shame, fear, unforgiveness, the power of words, and how God responds to each of these things with a call to sonship. Each chapter is framed around her own experiences of God’s redemptive work in her life. Some of the things she shares are hard to read, as she reveals the pain of her past. But then she talks of God – His loving pursuit of her, and the way He revealed Himself to her. Step by step bringing healing and freedom into her life.

Depth and Insight

The book is a smorgasbord of delights. Alongside Tracy’s own story are the stories of others, beautiful meditations on the word of God, examples of God’s miracle working power through Tracy and Marilyn’s ministry, prophetic pictures, questions and prayers for reflection, and poems and modern day parables from the author’s own hand. It is not a book to be read quickly. There is so much depth and insight and encouragement on every page. It can be read straight through but I think its true worth is in slow meditative reading, and in prayerfully applying the truths it shares to our own lives and experience.

Unashamed and honest

I said before that Tracy has been brave in writing this book, unashamed to share where she has been and where God has brought her to. Her integrity, openness and compassion shines through. Long years in ministry have qualified her to speak hope into broken lives. Her own experiences of God have qualified her to speak of His amazing love and power to heal and restore. It cost her to write this book, but God’s hand is all over it. I believe it will become a powerful tool in bringing freedom to many.

Image combines a picture of the book cover alongside a 3D red heart that is cracked in pieces, on a glossy black background

Creator Without Apology

The book opens with a beautiful personal poem, ‘Creator without Apology’. It spoke deeply to me, and sums up the message of Unashamed. In it the author marvels at the beauty and intricacy of creation, all that reflects back on the Creator’s beauty, and in that can only see herself as some kind of mistake. And yet God speaks, and He says ‘In as far as these things reflect my beauty, They are nothing compared to you’. Why? because as beautiful as flowers and leaves and trees are, they cannot walk and talk, and be joined in love with Him. Still the author questions her own insufficiencies, and God has to come back again and re-iterate His design for her life, ‘Child don’t let your wounds blind you to the artist, And limit the richness of my creativity’. The Creator will not, cannot, apologise for making us just as we are. His creativity goes beyond the things we see as limitations in our lives; He can, and delights to, make us into beautiful and glorious reflections of Himself.

Unashamed to be me

How often do we carry so much shame or lack of self worth, that we cannot hear what the Father whispers over us, we cannot accept that He sees us as beautiful, and gifted, and having purpose in Him? This book leads us on that path of acceptance. The freedom to be and live as the person He designed us to be. Alive in Him and in love with Him. Unashamed to be exactly who He created us to be.

Photo of the author, Tracy Williamson.

The author: Tracy Williamson lives in the South East with her ministry partner Marilyn Baker. Working for MBM Trust they lead conferences, renewal days , concerts and church events. Their vision is to see lives restores through intimacy with God.

Copies of the book can be purchased direct from the author here. Or from Eden Books, or Amazon, or via all good Christian Bookshops.

Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power. Her debut novel ‘The Healing‘ was published by Instant Apostle on 19 March 2021. ‘The Pilgrim‘, her second full length novel, was published by Instant Apostle on 22 July 2022, and her third novel ‘The Bride’ will be published on 20th October 2023.

More information on Joy, and her books can be found here www.joymargetts.com

Bearing Fruit, Bible, Book Review, Christian faith, Christian Writer, Valuable to God

BOOK REVIEW: VALUABLE BY LIZ CARTER

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It is a real privilege to able to post a review for this incredible book as part of the blog tour celebrating its publication.

Image of the front cover of Valuable, with the subtitle 'why your worth is not defined by how useful you feel'

Valuable is a book that comes straight from the author’s heart. Liz has lived all her life with a debilitating chronic illness, and yet she loves God and His Word passionately. She is married to a full time church minister, and is the daughter of pioneering church ministers. The wealth of her experiences and the real life battles she has faced add a depth of sincerity to every word written.

WHAT DO YOU DO?

The message of Valuable challenges a language that has seeped into the church from society in general. That our value is measured by what we can do and achieve. Or in Christian speak – how useful we are to God.

Have you ever been asked, ‘So what do you do?’ We use the question too easily as a way of trying to get to know people. But what if we can’t answer that question? What if we are weak, debilitated, sick, emotionally fragile, or just feel underqualified or past our best? What if we can’t actually ‘do’ very much at all. Does that make us less important? Less of a human being? Less valuable? For some people, myself included, ‘what do you do?’ is an uncomfortable question to answer.

Photo of a woman's hands holding a copy of the book

USEFUL TO GOD

But what about in church? Have we ever felt judged because we aren’t being useful to God? Have we ever been assaulted by the language of usefulness? In Valuable Liz Carter uses both scripture based spiritual insight and real-life stories to prove that our worth is not defined by how useful we are or feel. In one heart-breaking story, Tracy Williamson, a wonderful Christian author who is deaf, tells how words spoken over her as a new Christian nearly broke her. During a prayer session for her healing, an elder said to her,  ‘Tracy, you must have more faith, because God won’t be able to use you as a deaf person.’

It was lies. And Tracy’s ongoing life of faith has proved it. But how often do we fall into using similar language, tied into long held beliefs? That unless we are useful to God we don’t have value. A quick study of scripture shows us time and time again that it was the weak and seemingly useless people that God called to do extraordinary things with Him. And this is Liz’s message in Valuable. That our value to God is not tied to what we can do for Him. We are valuable to Him because we are His beloved children. And He is not a God who ‘uses’, rather a God who seeks partners and co-labourers. Those whose weaknesses He can turn into strength.

HE VALUES US

This book spoke deeply to me. I have gone through the whole battle of why my illness came at a time in my life when I felt I was being most useful to God. How did my life have value anymore if I could not do what I used to be able to do? I have discovered the truth of Liz’s book worked out in my life. God took the weakness of my incapacity and has turned it into something of lasting value to Him.

I believe this is a book for any Christian who feels trapped in their uselessness, those who feel incapacitated in any way. But I would suggest that it is also a book for those who are actually thriving in their sense of usefulness. Liz shows us very clearly through careful biblical investigation that God never talks about us in terms of our usefulness to Him. If He doesn’t use that language than neither should we. God is much more interested in us bearing fruit out of a close relationship with Him, than He is in any work or effort we put in. Liz calls this embracing the ‘upside down’ way of God’s kingdom. Where we don’t boast in our strength, but take our worth from His unlimited love is for us.

Image of the text of one of Liz Carter's prayers from the book

POWERFUL AND BEAUTIFUL

Valuable is a powerful book.  It is thought provoking, insightful and moving. It is not a book that can be read quickly. In fact I think it is a ‘dip in and out’ book, containing a wealth of treasures. It is definitely a ‘mark the page’ book, and full of ‘O yes, of course!’ moments.

Liz Carter is a gifted poet and each chapter is ended with a lovely poetic reflection and a prayer. The end of the book also has a seven day reflection/devotional guide.

This is a book I can see myself going back to again and again. It is just beautiful. And it is liberating. Thank you Liz.

Photo of the author Liz Carter
Liz Carter

Valuable by Liz Carter was published on 1st June 2023 by The Good Book Company, and is available to purchase through the publisher https://www.thegoodbook.co.uk/outreach/valuable where you can also find out more information about the book and access some free downloads.

Also available via Amazon and anywhere good books are sold.

Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power. Her debut novel ‘The Healing‘ was published by Instant Apostle on 19 March 2021. Joy has also self- published a short novella, ‘The Beloved‘ as both a companion to ‘The Healing‘, and as an easy to read standalone story, which is available to buy on Amazon Kindle. ‘The Pilgrim‘, her second full length novel, was published by Instant Apostle on 22 July 2022. More information on Joy, and her books can be found here www.joymargetts.com

Blog Tour, Book Review, Books, Christian Writer, Historical Fiction, Medieval Fiction

BOOK REVIEW: ‘WHEEL OF FORTUNE’ BY C.F.DUNN

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If you have followed my blog or writing for any time now you must know that I absolutely love Historical Fiction. So it is my utter delight to be able to recommend this book to you. I have been fortunate to be able to see and read a pre-publication edition of ‘Wheel of Fortune’ the first book in The Tarnished Crown series by C F Dunn, as part of a review tour to celebrate its release.

Front cover of 'Wheel of Fortune' by C F Dunn. Featuring a white York Rose in a teal blue background, the titles in white and gold.

BRINGING THE PAST TO LIFE

My favourite historical authors are those who can effortlessly weave real events and people into epic tales. A little bit of romance is acceptable as long as it is not the main storyline of the book. I don’t need there to be a murder mystery, or any kind of mystery at all. I just appreciate writers who can bring the past to life in a believable way, enough to transport you to that time and place. To keep you engaged and invested in the story and the characters. And I am pleased to say that C F Dunn does that extremely well in ‘Wheel of Fortune’.

It is set in the period of the Wars of the Roses when alliances among the powerful is forever shifting. Where no-one fully trusts anyone, and where, we discover, to be a young orphaned heiress of marriageable age is a to be a position of acute vulnerability. And so C F Dunn introduces us to Isobel Fenton, her life, despite the loss of her mother, seemingly idyllic. Her father is ailing, but a marriage agreement promises to secure Isobel’s future and her home.

Then when her father dies, Isobel finds herself without the protection she once knew. Those who were supposed to shield her and provide for her instead see her as a pawn to be played in their ever shifting power games. She is valuable. Her father’s land is in a contested area of the kingdom and the Earl, into whose care she has been committed, is reluctant to see her wed to a man whose allegiance to England’s new King is in question. As the story progresses we see the Earl has other, darker reasons for keeping Isobel close by him, and her life is changed irrevocably by his power over her.

VIVID AND COMPELLING

Photograph of the author C F Dunn, against the backdrop of a medieval castle.
The author, C.F.Dunn, in one of her ‘natural habitats’

The descriptions of the period, the living conditions, food, and indeed the political situation, are vivid and compelling. The author knows her stuff and her extensive historical research shows. The characters are also well drawn and believable. We are drawn into Isobel’s world and feel it as she feels it. The joys, the pain, the anger and the despair. The first few chapters set the scene, and take some concentration, with the introduction of a cast of characters and other background details. But I found that once I was into the heart of Isobel’s unfolding story, I could not put the book down. And here comes my one criticism of the book – it does not end in resolution! The author leaves us hanging on a knife edge (literally!). I understand that there is a sequel* in the offing and invested as I am in Isobel’s story I cannot wait to read the next book. What will become of her? Her home? And the man she loves, who seems forever beyond her reach?

Wheel Of Fortune is a great read. It does not hold back in some of the more disturbing aspects of life in the period. There is blood letting, and betrayal. There are skirmishes and secrets. There is abuse of power and angry retaliations. But there are also lighter aspects of the book, and an underlying morality that you sense will end in good things for the good characters. The book is beautifully constructed, the writing fluid and descriptive. And the story is well told. If you are as much of a Historical Fiction lover as I am, I am pleased to recommend it to you. Oh, and the cover is stunning!

*Sun Ascending, the second in The Tarnished Crown series, will be out later this year

Wheel of Fortune by C.F. Dunn will be published 20th May 2023, by Resolute Books and will be available to purchase online through Amazon Books and by order through bookshops.

BLURB

Wheel of Fortune is the first book in The Tarnished Crown series spanning the turbulent years of the fifteenth-century Wars of the Roses.

The Earl looked dispassionately at the boy still kneeling by his uncle’s body. “He bears his family’s shame; he is nothing.” He turned his back and stood for a moment contemplating the blank face of the sky. Then he breathed out, a long breath it seemed, held for an eternity. “It is done,” he said. “Justice is served.”

It’s 1469. England is in turmoil. For almost ten years, the charismatic Edward IV has ruled with the Earl of Warwick’s support, but now rebellion threatens the fragile peace.

Strong-willed and determined, Isobel Fenton is resolved that nothing will separate her from her beloved manor of Beaumancote – even if it means marrying Thomas Lacey. But Isobel is unaware of the importance she and her land represent, nor of the agenda of the formidable Earl in whose care she finds herself. As unrest boils into war Isobel is drawn into the very heart of the conflict. Can she escape from the web in which she is trapped, and will she ever find her way home?

Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power. Her debut novel ‘The Healing‘ was published by Instant Apostle on 19 March 2021. Joy has also self- published a short novella, ‘The Beloved‘ as both a companion to ‘The Healing‘, and as an easy to read standalone story, which is available to buy on Amazon Kindle.

‘The Pilgrim‘, her second full length novel, was published by Instant Apostle on 22 July 2022

More information on Joy, and her books can be found here www.joymargetts.com

Book Review, Books, Christian Writer, God's faithfulness, Rachel Yarworth

BOOK REVIEW: FRIEND OF GOD by Rachel Yarworth

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THE FRIENDSHIP OF GOD

Front cover of the book 'Friend of God' featuring a woman in silhouette, standing on a hill gazing at a night sky, with a purple background.

Friend of God is subtitled ‘The miraculous life of an ordinary person’. What brave debut author Rachel Yarworth has done has poured herself into the pages of this book. It is her own story of a life of friendship with God. Written in response to what she describes as a call on her life to ‘make God known’. Her desire in writing this book is to describe the ‘incredible love, goodness, kindness and amazing friendship of God’ to her readers. To show through her life stories what an incredible God He is.

The book does that. Searingly honest in places, it is not all miracles and blessings, Rachel has been through some difficult things too. Where God hasn’t worked the miracle in an instant, but has proved faithful in His presence and provision. But then there are the miracles that inspire our faith. The supernatural, unexplainable protection of her and her infant son during an incident that could have killed them both. The babies born naturally after years of infertility. The healings seen and experienced.

HER SAVIOUR

Rachel’s story begins with a simple encounter with God in her childhood. Her understanding of God was naïve  – she did not grow up in a home where He was known. It was only after difficult teenage years, marked with rebellion and the desperate search for acceptance, and as she entered young adulthood, that she met other Christians. Then her understanding blossomed into accepting that the Father God who loved her was also her Saviour. And He wanted her whole life, which she gave willingly.

BUT GOD

Each chapter of the book is a glimpse into Rachel’s life journey with God. I love that each chapter is ended with a ‘But God’ statement. These are sometimes celebratory

‘The doctors said we could not have babies naturally…

But God gave them to us supernaturally’

And sometimes heart-breaking and yet faith affirming,

‘I was completely devastated…

But God healed my broken heart in an instant’

These ‘But God’ statements resonated with me, as they reflect my own journey with God. We often mess up, or find ourselves in situations beyond out control. Or in places of confusion and pain. But God is always there, always faithful, always merciful and compassionate. And when we look back at our lives, as Rachel has, we can see over and over how God has come through for us.

GOD WANTS TO JOURNEY WITH US

Image of back cover of the book 'Friend of God' with blurb

There is pain as well as joy in the pages of this book. I was particularly touched by how God ministered to Rachel after the loss of her babies. The first time the grief was played out over many, many months, but in a process that deepened Rachel’s reliance on God, and her understanding of His love for her. The second time the healing process happened almost instantly after she received prayer. She rejoices in both. And this spoke to me. How often we want the instant healing, the immediate relief, when God wants us to journey it through with us. To teach us more about Himself and His heart towards us. To deepen our friendship with Him.

I enjoyed this book and was pleased to be able to review it for Rachel. She has done a very brave thing as a debut author in publishing her own story, and I really do hope it reaches the people God wants it to. If I have one, very small apprehension about the book, it is that Rachel talks a lot about hearing directly from God, which may be something some readers struggle to relate to. I believe it is possible to hear God speak personally to us, but His written Word is the failsafe we always need to go back to, to test what we have heard. God never contradicts Himself.

All in all Friend of God is a lovely faith building book. If you want to be encouraged, go get yourself a copy! Thank you Rachel for sharing your life with God, with us.

I no longer call you slaves, because a master doesn’t confide in his slaves. Now you are my friends, since I have told you everything the Father told me.

John 15:15 NLT

Image of the author, Rachel Yarworth

‘Friend of God’ by Rachel Yarworth, ISBN 978-1739257705 RRP £8.99 Paperback, £ 2.99 Kindle (free on KU) available to purchase through AMAZON here

For more from Rachel, visit her personal blog here

Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power. Her debut novel ‘The Healing‘ was published by Instant Apostle on 19 March 2021. Joy has also self- published a short novella, ‘The Beloved‘ as both a companion to ‘The Healing‘, and as an easy to read standalone story, which is available to buy on Amazon Kindle.

‘The Pilgrim‘, her second full length novel, was published by Instant Apostle on 22 July 2022

More information on Joy, and her books can be found here www.joymargetts.com

Bible, Blog Tour, Book Review, christian fiction, Christian Writer, Forgiveness, The Word of God

BOOK REVIEW: BENEATH THE TAMARISK TREE by Rob Seabrook

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I am so pleased to be able to commend a new Biblical fiction author, Rob Seabrook, to you. I love Biblical fiction, and am in awe of the authors who bring the stories of the Bible alive, using their God inspired imagination. Rob Seabrook recently released his debut novel Beneath the Tamarisk Tree and I am honoured to be invited to be a part of his blog tour.

Image of the front cover of Beneath The Tamarisk Tree

The Penitent Thief

How do you base a whole novel around a character that only appears for the briefest of moments in the biblical record? Someone that scripture tells us very little about – apart from a few words he spoke through the agony of his brutal execution. That is what Rob has done. He has taken for his inspiration the penitent thief, who appears Luke 23 : 39-43. His dying words to Jesus, and Jesus’ words in reply, are famous. They echo through history, and have given hope to many.

“Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.”

“Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”

A story of hope

Beneath the Tamarisk Tree is a story of hope. But it is also a tough to read portrayal of a lost life. Rob does an amazing job of imaging a very believable past life for the penitent thief. He poignantly describes a boy growing up knowing that he was unwanted, and worse, unloved. Who finds himself scrabbling together a life on the streets of a dangerous city. Stealing to survive. Learning to feel nothing to protect his heart. Finally finding himself in the hands of the authorities and facing a death he actually welcomes.

Then he meets Jesus. He is not saved from his torment in this life, but a good part of the book explores his reunion with Jesus in heaven. How he is healed, redeemed and set free as he does indeed enter Paradise. It is a beautiful story.

Three crosses silhouetted against a sunrise

Love and Mercy

I particularly love the way Rob portrays Jesus and the Holy Spirit. Love is the overriding characteristic of both. Rob also describes heaven, it’s landscapes and atmosphere. It is easy enough to picture as his descriptive writing is particularly good. Whilst I appreciated his interpretation of heaven, I found his descriptions of the city life of Jerusalem most impactful. There is a warning here, the author also describes the torture and crucifixion of Jesus and His companions in great detail. Not easy reading, but relevant to the story in comparison to the peace and joy of paradise. Not to mention the glorified resurrected Jesus.

I enjoyed Rob’s story very much. I believe it can speak hope to all who read it. And it shows Jesus, His love and mercy, so clearly and beautifully. The One who in His final moments of agony opened His heart and His heaven to a penitent thief. Our beautiful Saviour.

Ask the Author

I had some questions for Rob, and he kindly answered them for me.

Image of author, Rob Seabook

‘Why did you title the book, Beneath the Tamarisk Tree?’

I mention Tamarisk trees a couple of times in the book, as they capture the imagination of the main character. In the Bible, Abraham plants a Tamarisk tree to represent peace, especially his peace with God, and one of the scenes show the main character finding Abraham’s Tamarisk tree in heaven, and discovering a sense of peace and joy from the Holy Spirit as he dances beneath the tree. So it seemed a good focus for the book – finding peace and joy under the canopy of a Tamarisk tree.

‘How did you come up with your description of heaven?’

This is a tricky area, because of course none of us will know that heaven is like until we get there, and no doubt what we imagine now is going to be far from the amazing reality that we will find. But I had to write about it somehow, so I began with the Bible, and expanded on the hints and glimpses that it offers. I also took some inspiration from the natural world that we see around us, which after all was created by God and so may be a reflection of His heavenly creations, and I then expanded on them. I tried to challenge the reader a bit and but hope that my descriptions can inspire the readers’ imaginations.

‘You chose to make the main character a street child living in abject poverty in Jerusalem. Was this something you researched, or purely from your imagination?’

A bit of both really. I was able to research what first century Jerusalem was like, for example the horrors of life under Roman occupation or the difficulties of poverty. I read that the average life expectancy for men was about 30, so it meant that many must have died in infancy or childhood, and anyone living on the streets would have had a fairly low chance of getting to adulthood. I also have some experience of childhood trauma, from being a foster carer, and have seen the impact of neglect on the mental health of young people. So I could bring in to the story some of the likely behaviours that would be seen by a child living on the streets, devoid of love. This was then coupled with me imagining the scenarios, the experiences, the difficulties and circumstances that may lead someone who was being executed as a thief, to still have just a small glimmer of faith in a Saviour, that would bring him to a point of salvation in the final moments of his life.

Beneath The Tamarisk Tree was published by Malcolm Down Publishing, Nov 2021. ISBN 978-1915046017 and is available via all good booksellers, or direct from the author himself.

Author website www.robseabrook.com

Rob is also kindly offering a free giveaway of a copy of his book to five people who subscribe to his newsletter here www.robseabrook.com/email-list/

Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power. Her debut novel ‘The Healing‘ was published by Instant Apostle on 19 March 2021. Joy has also self- published a short novella, ‘The Beloved‘ as both a companion to ‘The Healing‘, and as an easy to read standalone story, which is available to buy on Amazon Kindle.

‘The Pilgrim‘, her second full length novel, was published by Instant Apostle on 22 July 2022

More information on Joy, and her books can be found here www.joymargetts.com

Bible, Blog Tour, Book Review, christian fiction, Christian Writer, The Word of God

BOOK REVIEW: ‘The Wanderer Reborn’ by Natasha Woodcraft

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The Wanderer Reborn: Book 2 in The Wanderer series

I was absolutely thrilled to be invited to kick off the Blog Tour for Natasha Woodcraft’s much anticipated second novel. The Wanderer Reborn. Natasha burst on to the Biblical Fiction scene earlier this year with her debut novel, The Wanderer Scorned. In her first book she set out to retell the story of Cain and Abel and did so with such godly imagination, that even though we know the outcome of that familiar story, it was a riveting read. You can read my review of The Wanderer Scorned here.

Image of front cover of The Wanderer Reborn, showing a young girl with dark hair and eyes, against a background of barren hills and a moody sky.

The Wanderer Reborn is a sequel, picking up the story after Kayin kills his brother Havel. It explores the grief, loss, and anger brought about by one of the most famous crimes in history. How does a family recover from the loss of two beloved sons? Especially when one has taken the life of the other? Is forgiveness and reconciliation possible? How would you react? Natasha explores all these themes with great sensitivity.

Grief, loss, forgiveness and reconciliation

The story is focussed on Awan, Havel’s twin sister. On one fateful day, Awan loses the two men she loves most in the world. The book describes her grief and loss, how the years go by and she watches her siblings grow up and experience the things that she once dreamed of. Bitterness threatens. And then one day God asks her to embark on a physical journey, which will also become a journey of forgiveness and reconciliation. Confronted by temptation and her own sinful nature, Awan realises the power of forgiveness, and that nobody Is beyond the scope of God’s great love and redemptive power.

This is an imaginative and evocative retelling of a story that scripture only hints at in Genesis 4 and yet is utterly compelling and so hope-filled. It drew me in from the very start and left my soul deeply encouraged. The descriptions of the early earth are believable, the characters sympathetic, and the message is eternal – that there is hope for everyone, even the worst of criminals, and that the scorned one can be reborn to new life.

Composite image of the front cover of the book against a background image of cliffs lake and trees.

Highly recommended

Image of author, Natasha Woodcraft

Although there is no scriptural basis for the story of hope retold here, The Wanderer Reborn is so full of the love, mercy and grace of God. It is also full of scripture, as yet again, the author uses her song writing skill to convert familiar passages of lament and praise into songs that Awan sings. It is a beautiful book and I cannot recommend it highly enough. Except that – I would encourage you to read the first book first, to get the whole redemptive story.

The Wanderer Reborn will be officially published on 3rd December and can be pre-ordered now direct from the author at natashawoodcraft.com/books/

Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power. Her debut novel ‘The Healing‘ was published by Instant Apostle on 19 March 2021. Joy has also self- published a short novella, ‘The Beloved‘ as both a companion to ‘The Healing‘, and as an easy to read standalone story, which is available to buy on Amazon Kindle.

‘The Pilgrim‘, her second full length novel, was published by Instant Apostle on 22 July 2022

More information on Joy, and her books can be found here www.joymargetts.com