HISTORICAL ROMANCE: THE HOLLY AND THE IVY: a Christmas romance collection

 

THE HOLLY AND THE IVY

a Christmas romance collection

written by Sarah M. Eden, Esther Hatch, Dana LeCheminant, Anneka R. Walker

Covenant Communications, 2022

ISBN: 978-1-52442-222-6

Source: purchased

All opinions expressed are solely my own.

Book cover & book summary provided by publisher through Deseretbook.com.

ABOUT THE BOOK

The Holly and the Ivy by Sarah M. Eden As nursemaid to the eight-year-old Duke of Kielder, Robbie will spend her holidays with her young charge as a guest of Lord and Lady Jonquil. While the couple makes the child’s holiday magical, the handsome gardener works his own magic on Nurse Robbie’s heart. Hiding Christmas by Esther Hatch Celebrating Christmas in Scotland will only invite persecution. But that never stopped Kirstine’s English grandmother. When they are almost caught, Kirstine is forced to beg for the help of the one man she cannot abide. A Twist of Christmas by Dana LeCheminant A Christmas house party offers two members of the ton an irresistible opportunity: a weekend of anonymity. But their charade comes with unexpected romantic consequences. A Season to Love by Anneka R. Walker Alice Hunt is searching for a Christmas miracle: a husband of her choosing. With the threat of an arranged marriage looming, she looks to an unlikely matchmaker for help.

REVIEW

Christmas stories live in my heart all year long. Through in some romance and I am happy as a clam. This lovely collection contains four stories by some of my many favorite authors. First, I got to visit the childhood of one of my favorite all time characters, the Duke of Kielder, who shows up in a number of Sarah M. Eden's regency novels. But in this story, he's a lonely, grieving child in the care of his nanny. He comes to visit Lord and Lady Jonquil who shower him with all the love and celebration his heart could desire. But when his nanny Robbie falls for the handsome gardener working for the Jonquils, can it truly be a great Christmas. I loved returning to the world of these beloved characters and reading about events mentioned elsewhere. I adored all the characters in this one.

Hiding Christmas by Esther Hatch takes readers on a journey with Kirstine as she takes her grandmother to England to celebrate Christmas, something still frowned on in Scotland. But the only way to get there is to ask for help from a man she would prefer not to know. But along the way, her heart softens as she learns more about the man she's so desperate to despise. I found myself smiling and even laughing out loud at spots in this one. Witty banter is one of my favorite things to read in a romance and this one has plenty.

A Twist of Christmas sees two members of high society dipping their feet into anonymity as they both pretend to be someone lower in station. What neither expects of course is to fall in love with someone they seemingly cannot marry. The secondary characters play a rather entertaining role in the story as they know more about what's going on then the main characters do. Another enjoyable romance full of holiday spirit.

Alice Hunt's search for a husband in A Season to Love provides plenty of Christmas spirit as well as humorous misadventures as Alice recruits a clergyman to help her find a husband. But maybe she's looking beyond the mark and the solution to her deepest desire is right under her nose. Alice and Thomas make a great match and it's a true delight seeing them get there.

A wonderful collection of feel-good stories full of amusing details and lots of holiday spirit.

CHRISTIAN FICTION REVIEW: The Mistletoe Countess by Pepper Basham

THE MISTLETOE COUNTESS

by Pepper Basham

Barbour Publishing, 2021

ISBN: 978-1-64352-986-8

Source: purchased

Historical romance/Christian fiction

All opinions expressed are solely my own.

Book summary & book cover provided by Goodreads.com & publisher.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Will the magic of Christmas bring these two newlyweds closer together, or will the ghosts of the past lead them into a destructive discovery from which not even a Dickens’s Christmas can save them?

Mistletoe is beautiful and dangerous, much like the woman from Lord Frederick’s Percy’s past, so when he turns over a new leaf and arranges to marry for his estate, instead of his heart, he never expects the wrong bride to be the right choice. Gracelynn Ferguson never expected to take her elder sister’s place as a Christmas bride, but when she’s thrust into the choice, she will trust in her faithful novels and overactive imagination to help her not only win Frederick’s heart but also to solve the murder mystery of Havensbrook Hall before the ghosts from Frederick’s past ruin her fairytale future.

REVIEW

I know it isn't Christmas right now, but I loved this book so much I couldn't wait to review it!  The Mistletoe Countess provided a delightful and thoroughly engaging reading experience.  Not only was the plot compelling, but I absolutely fell in love with these characters.  They honestly felt like friends that I'd want to sit down and enjoy again and again.

When Gracelynn Ferguson steps in and marries an earl in her sister's place, she never expects to face a new home full of questions and the unhappiness of her new husband's past.  As Frederick and Grace's relationship develops and they become friends as well as spouses, Grace uses her unique collection of skills to help her husband find the healing and redemption he so desperately seeks.  With her sunny disposition and deep knowledge of fictional characters and plot lines, she works to help her husband discover what happened to the his brother, the former Earl of Astley.  Frederick's tender heart has been wounded by choices from the past, but Grace's openness and generousness of spirit helps him find the courage to face the past and work toward building the future.

Many of the interactions between the characters are wonderfully laugh inducing.  Grace is such a fun character, and quite amusing in the way she's always referring to fictional characters and what she has learned from her reading, especially the sleuthing information.  The growing relationship between Grace and Frederick is sweet and tender. The other characters provide greatly to the story as well, especially the servants reactions to Grace's often quite improper behavior.  Frederick's mother is a rather heartbreaking part of Frederick's past, but by the end, like Grace, I felt some empathy for her situation even though it's partly self-induced.  As a romance, there is plenty of kissing involved; intimate relations are shared between Grace and Frederick as husband and wife, but are kept off the page, although there are a couple of bedroom scenes where they are talking. 

As Christian fiction there is frequent mention of God and prayer and religious belief throughout the story, but it doesn't get preachy or bog down the story in any way. The contrast between Frederick's past mistakes and Grace's innocence highlights Frederick's efforts at redemption and restitution.  The murder mystery becomes a prominent part of the story as Grace and Frederick begin to settle in at Havensbrook Hall and prepare to celebrate Christmas.  The danger that stalks Grace and Frederick builds in tension until the denouement at the end where Grace and Frederick have a chance to show just how much they have come to care for each other.

The length of this review should make it clear that I truly loved this book and plan to enjoy reading it many times in the future.

KEEPSAKE CHRISTMAS STORIES: Holiday Favorites as Performed with The Tabernacle Choir

KEEPSAKE CHRISTMAS STORIES

Holiday Favorites as Performed with the Tabernacle Choir

Shadow Mountain, 2021

ISBN: 978-1-62972-939-8

Source: publisher for review (Thanks Shadow Mountain!)

Short story collectible

All opinions expressed are solely my own.

ABOUT THE BOOK

This commemorative collector's edition celebrates twenty years of the Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square's beloved Christmas show—an annual tradition enjoyed by millions, both live on stage and through its holiday season broadcast on PBS stations, where it has earned Grammy and Emmy awards and nominations. Each year the show is hosted by a distinguished special guest, including Jane Seymour, Tom Brokaw, Kristin Chenoweth, and Hugh Bonneville. These holiday story adaptions have ranged from The Gift of the Magi to the story behind the writing of the hymn, "It Is Well With My Soul" to the inspiring tale of "The Candy Bomber"—an unlikely American WWII hero who dropped candy from his airplane to the children of Germany.

This coffee table edition is the perfect holiday keepsake for all ages and features photographs of the stage productions alongside the stories, which also includes a weblink to hear the stories from every performance.

REVIEW

Keepsake Christmas Stories contains a written version of each of the stories shared on the Christmas Program produced by the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square for each of the last twenty years.  For those, like me, who have loved each of those programs, it's wonderful to have a written collection of the wonderful stories shared at Christmas.  The lyrics of the musical part of each story are included within the stories.  While the stories have been adapted for print, the spirit and meaning of the stories remain just as powerful.  Because each story was beautifully combined with music, dancing, and a stunning setting, a link is included so that each performance can be watched and enjoyed as it was originally presented.  I love each of these stories both the fictional ones and the nonfiction ones.  Some left me in tears such as "A Christmas Bell for Anya" or "The Little Match Girl" while others left me with a warm glow in my heart like "The Candy Bomber".  For those like me who love inspiring stories to share during Christmas, this book is a must have.

BLOG TOUR w/ GIVEAWAY: All Hearts Come Home for Christmas by Sarah M. Eden, Anita Stansfield, Esther Hatch, & Joanna Barker

ALL HEARTS COME HOME FOR CHRISTMAS

A Regency Christmas Collection

by Sarah M. Eden, Anita Stansfield, Esther Hatch & Joanna Barker

Covenant Communications, 2019

ISBN: 978-1-52441-109-1

Source: ARC from publisher for review

All opinions expressed are solely my own.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Christmas at Falstone Castle by Sarah M. Eden - The Dowager Duchess of Kielder eagerly anticipates spending Christmas with her son and his family. Though their relationship has been strained, the duchess is determined to heal the chasm. Even with the help of the widowed local vicar, her plan will take a Christmas miracle. But during this magical season, anything is possible . . . even two second chances for love.

The Heart of Christmas by Anita Stansfield - When a chance meeting brings together a gentle seamstress and a widowed banker, each lonely soul finds a first hint of hope. As their lives become entwined, it will take Christmas spirit to guide a broken family to love and healing.

'Tis the Season to Be Daring by Esther Hatch - Elizabeth Davenport has had quite enough of the London season. Determined to evade a parade of unsuitable suitors, she seeks help from the one gentleman who has no regard for Society's rules. All of Society knows Lord Hawthorne is not interested in marriage, yet he cannot deny Miss Davenport's unique charm. And as the Christmas season works its magic, their charade begins to feel less like playacting and more like love.

The Christmas Dress by Joanna Barker - Seamstress Nell Addington is thrilled when her childhood friend Jacob Hammond commissions a dress for his sister. But when Nell realizes her feelings for Jacob run far deeper than friendship, an unexpected snowstorm—and some holiday cheer—may convince them both that love is worth fighting for.

AUTHOR INFORMATION

Sarah M. Eden : https://www.sarahmeden.com/

Anita Stansfield : http://www.anitastansfield.com/

Joanna Barker : https://www.authorjoannabarker.com/about.html

Esther Hatch : https://estherhatch.com/

REVIEW

I have a special fondness for Christmas stories.  I eagerly gather new ones every year.  Combining Christmas with the Regency Era and I was truly excited to read this book.  And I was truly delighted by each of the four stories.  I smiled throughout Christmas at Falstone Castle as I read about familiar and well-loved characters.  I yearned for the characters in The Heart of Christmas to find happiness amidst their loneliness and sadness.  I laughed at the antics of Elizabeth and Lord Hawthorne in 'Tis the Season to Be Daring.  And I enjoyed the exchanges between Jacob and Nell in The Christmas Dress.  If you enjoy characters old and new, laughter and tenderness, and some great banter all wrapped up with a bow in the Christmas season, I can highly recommend this collection of stories.

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CHRISTMAS DVD BLOG TOUR w/ GIVEAWAY!

Christmas Break-In:

Today was supposed to be one of the best days ever for nine-year-old Izzy Rush. But now, on the last day of class before Christmas break, she has been left alone at school. To make matters worse, the biggest blizzard this town has ever seen is blowing and snowing full force. Which is why three bumbling crooks on the lam decide to take shelter in the seemingly empty school. When Izzy discovers that the criminals are holding her friend Ray, the school custodian, she decides it’s up to her to save the day. But what can a nine-year-old girl do? You’d be surprised!  

Christmas Break-In Trailer (downloadable)

https://vimeo.com/302131170

Christmas Break-In Screener

https://vimeo.com/287281254

Password: CBIKOAN

To purchase at Amazon go here.

Christmas Apron:

The children in Millie’s family can’t wait for Grandma to arrive with her special Christmas apron. According to tradition, each grandchild will write down the gift he or she wants most in the world, and then slip that wish into the apron’s pocket. Then, on Christmas morning, those wished-for gifts will be magically waiting under the tree. But then eleven-year-old Millie overhears her parents: the family can’t afford gifts for all the little ones. She pictures the disappointment on her siblings’ faces: nothing to open on Christmas morning. Is Millie willing to sacrifice her own whole-soul wish so that someone else’s can come true? Full of tender emotion and delightful surprise, this story reminds us of the miracles that unfold when we think of others before ourselves.

Christmas Apron Trailer  (downloadable)

https://vimeo.com/295637919

Christmas Apron Screener

https://vimeo.com/296737743

Password: SeagullApronCovenant

To purchase at Amazon go here.

GIVEAWAY

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CHRISTMAS PICTURE BOOKS: The Little Match Girl/Celebrating a Christ-Centered Christmas Children's Edition

THE LITTLE MATCH GIRL

Mormon Tabernacle Choir Concert Series

Retold by David Warner, Paintings by Greg Newbold

Shadow Mountain, 2017

ISBN: 9781629723594

Source: publisher as a gift

Ages 6 and up

All opinions expressed are solely my own.

ABOUT THE BOOK

It is Christmas Eve, but for one little girl, there will be no stockings hung lovingly above the fireplace or shiny presents wrapped under the tree. The best that the little match girl can hope for is a warm, dry corner of the street to protect her against the freezing snow that has been falling for hours.

Helpless and cold, the child seeks a bit of comfort from the only source she has—the bundle of matches in her apron pocket. She had struggled all day to sell even one, but the crowds of people had only hurried past her with hardly a glance as they finished up their holiday shopping and rushed home to begin their feasts. Alas, at least she has the matches now, each one holding the promise of a few short seconds of warmth and light.

But as she strikes each match, she discovers a truth that sets her heart soaring—all along, even in times when she has felt most alone, she has been lovingly watched over by those who have gone before her and have anxiously awaited a joyous reunion. She learns she is not forgotten, and in the learning shares a poignant message of love and service. The tender tale of the little match girl reminds each of us to take notice of the least of those among us and to do our part to extend a kindly hand—at Christmastime and always.

REVIEW

This story has always broken my heart.  A young child alone and cast out in the streets to survive as best she can.  And yet the story is not intended to be one of sadness alone, but of joy as the little girl uses the few matches she has to imagine the most magnificent Christmas possible.  And while the early world had forgotten her, the heavenly one had not as she is joyfully welcomed home.  And while the focus of the story is on the faith and hope the child maintained despite her desperate circumstances, I can't help but ponder how her life would have been different if someone had stepped in to help. To me that is one of the important things that Christmas reminds us of, the need to be kind and loving towards one another as He, the Lord of Lords and King of Kings was.

This magnificent version of a classic tale was first told at the 2016 Christmas Concert of the Mormon Tabernacle choir.  The book includes the story along with some gorgeous illustrations and the words to the song the choir sang with the book.  A video of the storytelling and choir performance can be found at www.motab.org/littlematchgirl.

CELEBRATING A CHRIST-CENTERED CHRISTMAS

Children's Edition

A Family Nativity Tradition

written by Emily Belle Freeman & David Butler, illustrated by Ryan Jeppesen

Ensign Peak, 2017

ISBN: 978-1-62972-357-0

Source: publisher for review

Ages 4 and up

All opinions expressed are solely my own.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Discover how each figure of the Nativity can lead your family closer to Christ this Christmas season. This children's edition of Celebrating a Christ-Centered Christmas will guide you through seven meaningful traditions inspired by the Nativity setting. These simple experiences are not meant to add more to an already crowded holiday season but to offer something different. They will give your family an opportunity to escape from the frantic bustle of the Christmas season and spend time reflecting on the baby Jesus and the miracle of His birth.

This interactive book invites children to watch each figure approach the waiting manger and encourages them to ask what they might have done if they had been there on the night Jesus was born. Seven beautiful ornaments have been created to accompany the lesson each figure teaches. Displaying the ornaments throughout the Christmas holiday will remind your children of the lessons they are learning about the baby Jesus.

REVIEW

The Christmas season always seems to be so busy and chaotic that the real meaning of Christmas gets left behind.  Emily Freeman & David Butler have created this book to help parents lead their children toward a more spiritual, joy-filled Christmas experience.  The book is intended to be used over a seven day period.  Each day focuses on one person(s) or part of the Christmas story.  For example, the first night focuses on the innkeeper providing the stable for Joseph and Mary to stay in, the second night focuses on Joseph's kind treatment of Mary, etc.  Each section begins with a scripture passage from the Christmas story told in the Bible, followed by a brief explanation of what what happening.  The question, Could you? follows each explanation.  A question related to the topic then follows such as: How could you make room for the baby Jesus as part of your Christmas celebration this year?  There is a set of Christmas ornaments and nativity scene that can be purchased to go along with the traditions and questions suggested.  For those who are looking for a new tradition to help children celebrate Christmas in a Christ-Centered way, this book is a great resource.

BLOG TOUR w/ GIVEAWAY: Our Family Christmas by Christie Gardiner

OUR FAMILY CHRISTMAS

Creating Meaningful and Memorable Christ-Centered Traditions

By Christie Gardiner

Covenant Communications, 2017

ISBN: 978-1-52440-251-8

Source: publisher for review

All opinions expressed are solely my own.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Draw closer to the Savior as you set aside a few minutes each day to celebrate the season with your family using this inspiring, fun-filled countdown to Christmas as your guide. From Christmas songs to holiday stories to activities for old and young alike, this compilation of Christ-centered ideas is designed with one goal in mind: to bring families closer together and closer to Christ this holiday season. Whether you're taking a quick moment to connect or are engaging in a longer opportunity to create memories, the stories, recipes, activities, and music on these pages are just the beginning of faith-affirming togetherness for families of all ages and stages during the Christmas season.

REVIEW

Gardiner has created a delightfully helpful and beautiful book with Our Family Christmas.  The book is divided into days, with each section containing a story that introduces the theme for that day as well as suggestions for crafts and/or recipes as well as a song.  These can be used however the reader sees fit.  I especially appreciated the inclusion of suggestions for longer and shorter family activities.  There are also suggestions for recording Christmas memories.  This is not only a beautifully designed book with gorgeous illustrations, slick pages, and a keepsake design, but the content is immensely helpful for those who want to celebrate Christmas with their families but just don't have the time or desire to invest in planning.

GIVEAWAY

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TOUR SCHEDULE

*Oct. 30^th: https://brightlystreet.com/category/book-reviews/, http://iamareader.com/

*Oct. 31^st: http://lisaisabookworm.blogspot.com/, http://empowermoms.net/, http://heidi-reads.blogspot.com/

*Nov. 1^st: https://www.singinglibrarianbooks.com/, http://ldswritermom.blogspot.com/, http://thoroughlyhere.blogspot.com/, http://www.rockinbookreviews.com/

*Nov. 2^nd: https://ldsandlovinit.blogspot.com/, http://mybookaday.blogspot.com/, http://thethingsilovemost.com/, http://www.blogginboutbooks.com/

*Nov. 3^rd: http://sweetlymadejustforyou.com/blog/, http://www.wishfulendings.com/, http://brooklynberrydesigns.com/, http://literarytimeout.blogspot.com/

BLOG TOUR w/ GIVEAWAY: Christmas Grace by Jennifer Moore, Krista Lynne Jensen, Anita Stansfield, & Chalon Linton

CHRISTMAS GRACE

A Regency Christmas Collection

by Jennifer Moore, Krista Lynne Jensen, Anita Stansfield, Chalon Linton

Covenant Communications, 2017

ISBN: 978-1-52440-440-6

Source: Publisher for review

All opinions expressed are solely my own.

ABOUT THE BOOK

"Let Nothing You Dismay" by Jennifer Moore

After their childhood friendship blossomed into love, one young couple's whirlwind romance ended in bitter disappointment. Now, years later, can a long-overdue Christmas gift heal two wounded hearts?

"Christmas at Canterwood" by Krista Lynne Jensen

A charming new governess is determined to create a magical Christmas for her young charges. What follows is a season of warmth, laughter, and even the promise of an unanticipated love.

"Winter Angel" by Anita Stansfield

For generations, one small London bakery has carried on the sweet tradition of delivering bread to the impoverished. When the lovely baker meets a down-on-his luck stranger, her kindness will open the door to a bright friendship—and an astonishing discovery.

"Christmas Grace" by Chalon Linton

After suffering a heartbreaking loss, one woman returns home to honor the family tradition of staging a Christmas celebration for the surrounding village. But when a severe snowstorm hinders her plans, help and hope find her in the most unexpected of ways.

REVIEW

I have a special fondness for Christmas stories.  And a little romance never hurts. ;) Each of these four stories takes place during the Regency era and involve romance at Christmastime, two of my very favorite things.  No wonder then that I thoroughly enjoyed these stories of love and the power of the Christmas season.

GIVEAWAY

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TOUR SCHEDULE

*Oct. 23^rd: http://mybookaday.blogspot.com/, http://heidi-reads.blogspot.com/, http://www.iamareader.com/

*Oct. 24^th: http://minreadsandreviews.blogspot.com/, http://www.wishfulendings.com/, http://ilovetoreadandreviewbooks.blogspot.com/ , http://empowermoms.net/

*Oct. 25^th: https://joyinthemoments.wordpress.com/, http://ldswritermom.blogspot.com/, https://brightlystreet.com/

*Oct. 26^th: https://ldsandlovinit.blogspot.com/, http://www.singinglibrarianbooks.com/, http://katiescleanbookcollection.blogspot.com/, http://lisaisabookworm.blogspot.com/, http://www.rockinbookreviews.com/, http://whynotbecauseisaidso.blogspot.com/

*Oct. 27^th: http://literarytimeout.blogspot.com/, http://reviewsfromtheheart.blogspot.com/, http://www.blogginboutbooks.com/

DVD REVIEW: The Christmas Dress by Covenant Communicatiobs

THE CHRISTMAS DRESS

Covenant Communications, 2016

Approximately 27 min.

ABOUT THE DVD

It’s Christmas Eve, and Leland Jeppson’s hope is gone. Struggling to get by in their rustic homestead, he had at least wanted to give his family a special Christmas. But with a blizzard blowing in and the train bearing their gifts nowhere in sight, it seems Christmas is just one more thing they’ll have to do without. But as dusk falls, the Jeppsons’ packages unexpectedly arrive at the post office in the not-so-nearby town. Half-blind Postman George Schow is hesitant to brave the storm, but his son, Sidney, will stop at nothing to bring Christmas to the Jeppsons—and ask their daughter, Ellen, to the New Year’s Eve dance. Now it’s up to father and son to battle fierce elements in an attempt to deliver a Christmas miracle. Don’t miss this heartwarming reminder that while God helps those who help themselves, sometimes He does so through others.

REVIEW

Short and sweet is how I would describe this brief story about a Christmas miracle.  The Jeppson family waits anxiously for the arrival of some packages sent by Mary Jeppson's sister in Idaho, but as of midnight Christmas Eve the packages had not yet arrived.  The parents are sad that their children's hopes of Santa coming are going to be disappointed.  Ellen, the oldest child, is well aware that without these packages, there will be no Christmas.  When her mother reminds her to have faith and hope, she sneaks off to the bedroom to look at the mended dress she'll have to wear to the upcoming New Year's dance, and sheds some tears.  Unknown to the Jeppson family, their packages have arrived but George Schow thinks their delivery can wait until after the snow storm has passed.  But Sidney, Schow's son knows that the Jeppson's will have no Christmas without these packages and urges his father to deliver them immediately.  But as the storm worsens, it's going to take every ounce of faith, hope, and prayer, these two families can muster to make this Christmas miracle happen. This short video is a reminder that God helps those who are willing to help each other, and that the real meaning of Christmas is in the joy of service.  This is a movie that would make for a great addition to Christmas Eve programs or activities.

DVD SPOTLIGHT/REVIEW/GIVEAWAY: The Last Descent

THE LAST DESCENT

Inspired by the true story of love and loss at Nutty Putty Cave

Excel Entertainment, 2016

ABOUT THE MOVIE

The details of the passing of John Jones in Nutty Putty Cave have been well documented, but his story did not end there. Witness the power of love, family, and the Plan of Salvation in this critically acclaimed film that shows that family bonds extend beyond this life.

ABOUT THE PRODUCER

 EXCEL ENTERTAINMENT is the preeminent independent film distribution company in Utah, and though largely known for its Mormon-themed films (God’s Army, The Work & the Glory series, 17 Miracles, Pride & Prejudice, etc.), Excel has also had success releasing films with non-Mormon themes and stories (Forever Strong, Saints & Soldiers, etc.). Although the technology and means by which audiences consume films is changing rapidly, the demand for highly creative storytelling that motivates us to live up to the light that each of us has been given is as high as ever. We feel a deep obligation to not only bring stories of hope to the world, but to promote films with high standards of craftsmanship reflective of a belief in a divine and benevolent creator.

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REVIEW

Coming Soon!

TRAILER


GIVEAWAY

3 DVDS

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BLOG TOUR: Christmas Greetings from the Presidents

from deseretbook.com

CHRISTMAS GREETINGS FROM THE PRESIDENTS

Shadow Mountain, 2016

ISBN: 978-1-62972-220-7

Inspirational Nonfiction

Source: publisher for review

All opinions expressed are solely my own.

ABOUT THE BOOK

In the early days of Calvin Coolidge's presidency, a new White House tradition was born with the decorating of a "National Community Christmas Tree" in 1923. Since 1927, the annual lighting of the tree has also been accompanied by a presidential message. Those addresses, many of which are collected here, have provided an intriguing snapshot into the soul of two enduring institutions: The Christmas holiday and the American nation.

From the initial, decidedly brief messages that "Silent Cal" Coolidge presented at the end of the 1920s to those given by Franklin Delano Roosevelt in the midst of World War II as well as Ronald Reagan's message expressing solidarity with the people of Poland, which charted the beginning of the end of the Cold Car, the Presidents of the United States have marked the time through these inspiring messages of hope and goodwill.

This collection of Christmas messages consists of at least one address from each president since Calvin Coolidge. Reading them, we can trace the history of the United States from the Roaring Twenties through the Great Depression, World War II, the Cold War, the brief eras of Camelot and Watergate, the oil crisis and the fall of Communism, eras of economic book and recession, and the aftereffects of terrorism. Through all of these historic events, the lasting message of Christmas shines bright: We look to Christmas to remind us of what we can be—what is possible when we unite in hope, faith, and forgiveness.

REVIEW

This beautifully designed gift book celebrates the messages of love and peace that have been shared by presidents of the United States, past and present.  Each chapter highlights the words imparted by the president in addition to a brief description of what was going on in the world at the time.  Historical photographs and brief side-notes help delineate the events that lead to the delivery of these messages.  The words shared are an important reminder of what our country stands for and what has lead us to where we are today.  The inspirational messages remind readers that peace and good will are important in leading America into the future.  While the men who spoke these messages were far from perfect and whose decisions continue to have an impact on the roads the United States travels, these words suggest the ideals that we should continue to strive for.

BLOG TOUR W/ GIVEAWAY: The Christmas Project Movie

THE CHRISTMAS PROJECT

by Covenant Communications

ABOUT THE MOVIE

Even with Christmas around the corner, for the Buckley boys, payback almost always wins out over brotherly love. That is until the four brothers join forces against a common adversary—the Hagbarts—the meanest bullies at their middle school. But now Mom has decided that the Buckley family is going to Elve the Hagbarts this year for Christmas. Eleven-year-old Matthew can hardly stand it. By day the Hagbarts torture the Buckley brothers into submission, and by night the Buckleys secretly deliver Christmas treats and gifts to their sworn enemies. Soon the war of wits escalates to an incredible scheme designed to get the ultimate revenge on the Hagbarts. But now that Matthew has been learning that he's supposed to do good to those who hate him, what will he do when a little push becomes a great big shove? The Christmas Project is a heartwarming comedy the whole family will love.

REVIEW

I wasn't sure what I was going to think about this movie.  All too many Christmas movies feel a bit cheesy, sweet, but cheesy.  But I ended up thoroughly enjoying it.  Not only was the movie full of humor (I mean a home with four boys, how could it not be funny, and the pregnant mom was amusing as well), but there was plenty of heart too.  I've read and seen plenty of stories about acts of kindness, especially at Christmastime. What I liked about this one was the conflict between the Buckleys, the givers, and the Hagbarts, the oldest of whom goes out of his way to torment Matthew and his brothers.  Giving to those who hurt you is a real challenge.  And the sibling rivalry felt all too real.  Not only is this movie a humorous delight, but it's a story that will leave you with a smile on your face.

GIVEAWAY

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TOUR SCHEDULE

*Oct. 24th:  

http://thethingsilovemost.com/

http://iamareader.com/

*Oct. 25th:  

http://ldsandlovinit.blogspot.com/

http://sweetlymadejustforyou.com/blog/ 

http://rockinbookreviews.com/ 

http://rachellewrites.blogspot.com/

*Oct. 26th:  

http://mybookaday.blogspot.com/ 

http://lisaisabookworm.blogspot.com/, 

http://ldswritermom.blogspot.com/

*Oct. 27th:  

http://ilovetoreadandreviewbooks.blogspot.com/ 

http://minreadsandreviews.blogspot.com/ 

http://fireandicereads.com/ 

*Oct. 28th:  

http://literarytimeout.blogspot.com/ 

http://iamareader.com/ 

http://booksaresanity.blogspot.com/

*Oct. 29th:  

http://www.singinglibrarianbooks.com/ 

http://bonnieharris.blogspot.com/ 

http://www.wishfulendings.com/ 

http://www.blogginboutbooks.com/ 

http://whynotbecauseisaidso.blogspot.com/

A WONDERFUL COLLECTION OF CHRISTMAS MATERIALS!

All About Christmas

This hard cover book is stuffed with stories, songs, poems, Christmas history, joyful traditions, recipes, and activities. This delightful book celebrates all things Christmas - from the sacred story of the Nativity to the lore of Saint Nick. 

This is an amazing collection of materials, including stories, recipes and old-fashioned illustrations that made me nostalgic for the less commercialized aspects of Christmas. It reminded me of what Christmas is all about, spending time with family and remembering our Savior Jesus Christ. See here for a more thorough review.

Words of Christmas: Savoring the True Meaning of the Season One Word at a Time

This beautifully designed book takes a closer look at twenty-five words, like hope, faith and joy, that we hear throughout the holidays. 

So much attention is paid to the Christmas holiday that I sometimes think that the most important parts get neglected. This book focuses on twenty-five words that convey most beautifully exactly what the Christmas holiday is all about. A powerful reminder of the power of words to both lighten and darken the world.

Christus Marble 3 inch statue

This statue is small but the reminder of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is a powerful one. This is a replica of one of my all time favorite pieces of art. I placed it next to my nativity as a symbol of what that baby in the manger grew up to be and do do. A wonderful addition to my Christmas decorations, I will cherish using this not only at Christmas but all year round.

A Songbook for LDS Families

A Songbook for LDS Families highlights eighteen beloved and well-known songs, as well as twenty-eight newly penned Book of Mormon hymns composed by Janice Kapp Perry with text by Bonnie Hart Murray. 

Looking through this songbook brought back many happy memories of my childhood. The first section of the book contains 18 of the best known of Janice Kapp Perry's beautiful songs.  I remember loving many of these as a child and the beautiful messages and melodies contained therein.  I enjoyed reading the stories surrounding their creation.  The second half of the book contains 28 new songs based on well-known Book of Mormon stories and testimonies.  While these are unfamiliar the words are beautiful and I look forward to learning them.  The gorgeous paintings and stories connected to these songs make them all the more inspiring.

No Ordinary Shepherd (DVD)

The young shepard boy, has always treasured his father's tale of that starlit night filled with wonder of angelic heralds and a tiny Bethlehem stable sheltering the chosen Messiah. The young shepard later encounters a miracle of his own. 

While this is not a high cost production with big name actors and on location shooting, to me what matters is the story. And the story is a sweet story of faith and healing. I also really liked the actor portraying the Savior, his gentle and kind demeanor reflects just how I think the Savior would have acted. A sweet portrayal that had me crying in the end.

He Knows My Name (DVD)

Rebekah is fascinated by the man her neighbors call Jesus. Her mother is not so sure. One day she brings Jesus home - a simple act that will forever change their lives. 

All I can say about this one is that you need to see it.  I absolutely loved it, although it did make me cry.  I'm not sure I can even put into words what this one made me feel, all I can say is watch it!

MANY THANKS TO THE PUBLISHER FOR SENDING THESE MATERIALS WHICH HAVE ADDED GREATLY TO MY ENJOYMENT OF THE CHRISTMAS SEASON!