The Final Dispensation: The Mayor's Mandate by Dante Lupinetti

I enjoyed The Final Dispensation: The Mayor's Mandate. This book was an interesting speculation as to what life during the millenium rule of Christ might look like. The writing style is engaging and keeps the story moving. I was eager to see what would happen next with Ben. My one disagreement is that I feel Jesus would be much more involved than portrayed in the book. But if you are looking for a possible viewpoint of what life might be like when Satan is bound for a 1000 years and those who live during that time are free to choose their sides, this book is for you. I was given a copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts are my own. From Amazon: In the glorious new earth where the risen Lamb reigns victorious, former orphan Benjamin Levi never expected to become mayor of Jerusalem. But when his celebration of Yeshua's triumph is shattered by a terrorist bombing, he discovers that even in the Messiah's redeemed world, some children still fall through the cracks, and his Lord has called him to find them. The bomber, seventeen-year-old David, must choose between his sister's life and innocent strangers. Behind the attack lies a network of forgotten orphans, recruited by those who've refused to trust the Lamb. As Benjamin uncovers the failures that drove these children into darkness, he faces the ultimate test of discipleship: will he trust Yeshua's heart for the lost, even when it means risking everything? When the Messiah sends him to a remote island where missing children are being held captive by false shepherds, Benjamin must infiltrate a community that twists love into control, convincing traumatized children that safety requires rejecting the very grace that died for them. Racing against systematic brainwashing designed to steal their capacity for relationship with their Savior, Benjamin must demonstrate that the Lamb's love is boundless, His mercy inexhaustible, His kingdom open to the contrite and broken of heart. A powerful testament to how the crucified and risen King works through broken vessels, transforms institutional failure into redemptive opportunity, and proves that no child is beyond the reach of nail-scared hands that will never let them go. About the author:

Dante Lupinetti has lived in the greater Washington, DC area for fifty years. Assimilated by the Washington DC universe, he has not tried to escape it like so many others. He relishes the richness of its music, culture, artistry, sports, industry and political scene. He writes in a refuge located in Frederick, MD, fifty miles North of DC on the way to Camp David. Dante retired from coding after 45 yrs. commuting the DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia) as he worked in high tech. Dante is a dedicated follower of Jesus Christ and has been an elder in his church. He and his wife, Sue, are very active in local church life. They have five grown children and fourteen grandchildren. Dante is also a jazz enthusiast.

A Very English Christmas:Three Literary- Inspired Novellas by Carrie Turansky, Marguerite Gray, and Carole Lehr Johnson

I really enjoyed reading A Very English Christmas. It consists of three historical novellas connected by a contemporary tale. Each of the novellas have an historical author as a secondary character and all three stories are quite charming. This is a great book to settle in for a relaxing evening with a cup of tea and freash baked good as an escape during the coming holiday season. All thoughts are my own. From Amazon: Celebrate the season with three timeless tales inspired by Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, and Beatrix Potter. When Emma Grace Langley retreats to her grandmother’s antique shop in the snowy Cotswolds after heartbreak and job loss, she hopes to find clarity. Instead, she finds a collection of heirlooms—a portrait, a rare book, and a charming figurine—that unlock stories from the past. As each tale unfolds, Emma is drawn into the lives of three remarkable women whose lives were touched by England’s greatest storytellers. In A Portrait of Faith, devoted daughter Violet Walford longs for a life beyond duty to her family. When she is asked to paint a portrait of lively Regency-era author Jane Austen, their unexpected friendship inspires Violet to pursue life and love with new courage. In A Victorian Christmas Tale, Clara Reynolds struggles against physical challenges and family expectations while falling in love with John, a writer with ties to Charles Dickens. Their work at the London Foundling Hospital brings healing, hope, and a Christmas transformation that would make Scrooge proud. And in A Tale of the Season, Edwardian heiress Arabella Graham escapes to the Lake District and meets a charming country veterinarian—as well as artist and children's author Beatrix Potter. With gentle wisdom and the peace of a country Christmas, Arabella discovers the joy of finding her own path. Blending romance, inspiration, and literary nostalgia, A Very English Christmas is the perfect holiday escape for fans of historical fiction and classic English authors. About the authors: CARRIE TURANSKY is the award-winning author of more than twenty inspirational novels and novellas and a winner of the ACFW Carol Award, the International Digital Award, and the Holt Medallion. She loved traveling to England to research her latest Edwardian novels including A Token of Love, The Legacy of Longdale Manor, and No Ocean Too Wide. Her novels have received stared reviews from Christianbooks and Library Journal. They have been translated into several languages and enjoyed by readers around the world. Connect with Carrie on her website, on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Marguerite Gray enjoys the study of history, especially when combined with fiction. An avid traveler and reader, she teaches French and Spanish and has degrees in French, Spanish, and Journalism from Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas and a MA in English from Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene. She has two grown children and currently lives with her husband in north Louisiana. She writes historical fiction. Hold Me Close: Revolutionary Faith Book One (Dec. 2018) is set in pre-revolution Charles Town and takes the reader into the lives of immigrants, ordinary citizens, and prominent historical figures at a time in which decisions are made that will change the world. Surround Me: Revolutionary Faith Book Two (Jan. 2019) follows Elizabeth and Louis in 1774 Charles Town on the brink of war. Bring Me Near: Revolutionary Faith Book Three (Feb. 2019) takes place in Charles Town in 1775 facing life changing decisions. Draw Me to Your Side: Revolutionary Faith Book Four (Feb. 2020) finds Charles Town under fire in 1776. Wait for Me: Revolutionary Faith Book Five (Feb. 2021) finds Charles Town besieged by the enemy with just one sovereign order: Wait. Labor of Love: Book One in Gardens of Time (Feb. 2022) Amid the beauty of the gardens at Pitti Palace, evil schemes attempt to spoil the lives of the Medici household, 1560. Carole Lehr Johnson is a veteran travel consultant of more than 30 years and has served at her local library. Her love of tea and scones, castles and cottages, and all things British has led her to immerse her writing in the United Kingdom, whether in the genre of historical or contemporary fiction. She is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) as well as the president of her local chapter. She and her husband live in Louisiana, USA with their goofy cats. Permelia Cottage is her first novel.

Royal Runaway's Holiday by Mandy Boerma

 

Mandy Boerma has written a delightful story in Royal Runaway's Holiday. Although the book starts out with serious Princess Diary vibes, it quickly moves on to a wonderful story about friendship,  loyalty and duty. I liked the way things work together to give Princess Eva a day to be an anonymous citizen in her own country. It is also a story of God's grace and second chances. I really enjoyed reading about Eva, Kendra, Alexander and Gordan. The characters were well developed, and the plot was engaging, I read it in one day as I wanted to know how it ended. Fans of Toni Shilo's In Search of a Prince and Princess Diaries will certainly enjoy Royal Runaway's Holiday.

So grab a hot chocolate and curl up under a throw and enjoy a great escape for a day.

I was given a copy of  Royal Runaway's Holiday with no expectations. All thought's are my own.

From Amazon:

Book 1 of 1: Nevive Castle

---

She’s been trained to put her royal duty first, but what happens when it will cost her the dream she’s always harbored?

Evalina Rosalind Marie Bexley, Princess of Nevive, is ready to step into her role as Queen. The pageantry, 

the protocols, and, most certainly, the pretense. She’s prepared for it her whole life—until Parliament uncovers

 an ancient law saying she must marry before her birthday next month.

In an unprecedented move, she seeks refuge at the local Christmas bazaar. She’s certain her disguise will 

give her the freedom she craves before she must face her obligations. No one will ever know— after all, 

no one, including God, sees the real Eva.

He's worked for years to prove himself in a country that isn’t his.

Reporter Gordon Tarpen may have found the story of a lifetime when he recognizes his childhood friend, Eva,

 at the Christmas bazaar. Despite her heavy disguise, he’d know that laugh, that smile, those eyes anywhere.

 And he most certainly recognizes the same way the princess captivates those around her. Is he willing

 to sacrifice her trust for his own personal gain?

For one unforgettable day, they share adventure, laughter, and the spark of something more. But when the

 truth shatters their fragile fairytale, can love—and God’s grace—rewrite the rules? Or will the crown 

demand the ultimate sacrifice: her heart?

About the author:

Mandy Boerma is an award-winning author of faith-filled contemporary romance, writing from her

favorite coffee shop in Florida’s Panhandle. A busy mom of two daughters, she’s thrilled to have

earned second place in the Golden Scrolls and third place in the Selah Awards for "Here With Me."

When she’s not writing or chasing after family, you’ll find her with coffee in hand and a heart full of

stories.

Sense and Suitability by Pepper Basham

Sense and Suitability, like all books by Pepper Basham, is full of wit and humor. I loved the setting of a Regency English countryside. Throw in a misguided Viscount with a crumbling inheritance, family problems and the need for a wealthy wife and you have the makings of a great story. Along comes Emmeline a country gentleman's daughter with little wealth, grand ideas and a scandolous secret to create havoc in the Viscounts already turbulant world. Just for fun add a villianess debutant, a friend with advice, a demanding aunt and the village vicar for a well written delightful story.

I highly recommend Pepper Basham's Sense and Suitability! So brew up a poot of tea, grab some biscuits and curl up for a delightful afternoon of pleasurable reading.

I was given a copy of Sense and Suitability with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.

From Amazon:

In this clean Regency romance, a woman with a scandalous past (and an even more scandalous secret) swears off love--until the man who broke her heart needs her help. What could possibly go wrong? Perfect for fans of Tessa Dare and Eloisa James looking for a low-spice, witty Regency romance, "Sense and Suitability is a sweet, second-chance Regency romance with an Austenesque flair." (USA TODAY bestselling author, Mimi Matthews)

After two failed social seasons, her family may think the third time will be a charm, but Emmeline Lockhart just wants to survive with her dignity (and singleness) intact. She thought she'd found her perfect match in Simon Reeves--charming, handsome, a veritable hero from a novel--until he vanished from her life without so much as a "farewell" or "my deepest regrets" (or even a vague apology scribbled on the back of a calling card). Lesson learned: never fall for a man known for his charm.

Fortunately, and unlike many of the other eligible young ladies of the ton, Emmeline has no need for a husband--because she's already found success in her scandalous (and very anonymous) profession as an author. Why bother with matrimony when she can make her own fortune and write men exactly the way she wants them?

But fate--or the misfortune of Simon's reckless patriarchs--has other plans. Simon's once-proud estate is in shambles, his family fortune has been gambled away, and the younger impressionable siblings in his care are running wild across his estate (and possibly across all of England). Simon is in desperate need of a wealthy, prestigious bride . . . and a friend.

Emmeline may not fit the role of heiress, but she can certainly be a friend. Just a friend. She'll help him find a suitable match, ensure his reputation remains intact, and keep things strictly platonic--no matter how dangerously appealing his new-and-improved sincerity and regret may be.

There's just one small problem: the undeniable chemistry that still smolders between them. Can Emme play matchmaker for the man she's still in love with without losing her heart all over again? And is it possible that some love stories--especially the messy, inconvenient, impossible ones--are worthy of a rewrite?

Filled with lively banter, adorable children, a frog named Blast, and swoony kisses, Sense and Suitability is the sweet Regency romance you've been looking for. Basham brings her signature humor to the Regency era where social strictures keep the tension tight in this second-chance, enemies-to-lovers romance

About the author:

Pepper Basham is a best-selling author who writes romance “peppered” with grace and humor. Writing both historical and contemporary novels, she loves to incorporate her native Appalachian culture and/or her unabashed adoration of the UK into her stories. She currently resides in the lovely mountains of Asheville, NC where she is the wife of a fantastic pastor, mom of five great kids, a speech-language pathologist, and a lover of chocolate, jazz, hats, and Jesus. Her twentieth book, The Cairo Curse, came out in February. Next up is Positively, Penelope, the sequel to her bestselling novel, Authentically, Izzy. She loves connecting with readers and other authors through social media outlets like Facebook & Instagram.

You can learn more about Pepper and her books on her website at www.pepperdbasham.com

James: Book One in The Servant Siblings by Jenifer Jennings

 

I had never heard of Jenifer Jennings when I discovered the book James on Amazon. It is the first book in the Servant Siblings Series which is a fictional telling of the lives of Jesus siblings immediatly before and right after the Crucifiction. Jame is Jesus' half sibling, the next in line according to age. He has the weight of the world on his shoulders as he tries to lead the family after Joseph dies and Mary follows Jesus in His earthly ministry. He is resentful and does not believe that Jesus is anything more than a charleton. 

This was a good story of what it may have been like to be Jesus, half brother. Would you believe the tales of your brother being conceived by god? His performing miracles, raising people from the dead while also stirring up the religeous leaders? Join James as he leads his siblings to Jerusalem to observe the Holy days.

So grab your favorite beverage and settle in for a good read.

All thoughts are my own.

From Amazon:

Amidst betrayal and resurrection rumors, James must decide where his loyalties truly lie.

James ben Joseph wrestles with the pain of his older brother’s death. He never believed Jesus was a rebel, but his brother’s radical teachings drew dangerous attention from the Pharisees.

Traveling to Jerusalem for Passover, James hoped to convince Jesus to abandon his reckless ideas and come home. Betrayal and conflict led to Jesus’ arrest and crucifixion, and to protect his family, James turned his back on his brother.

As rumors spread that Jesus has risen from the dead, James’ sorrow mixes with fear of persecution. Determined to protect his family from further chaos, he sets out to uncover who is spreading these dangerous claims. As the truth unfolds, James faces a decision that could change his and his siblings’ lives forever.

Step into the world of first-century Jerusalem and follow James on his journey of faith in James, Book 1 of the Servant Siblings series.

About the author:

Jenifer Jennings writes Historical novels that immerse readers in ancient worlds filled with Biblical characters and faith-building stories. Coming to faith in Jesus at seventeen, she spends her days falling in love with her Savior through the study of His Word. Jenifer has a Bachelor’s in Women’s Ministry and graduated with distinction while earning her Master’s in Biblical Languages. When she’s not working on her latest book, Jenifer can be found on a date with her hardworking husband or mothering their two children. Discover your next favorite book at: jeniferjennings.com.

What’s your most talked about book?

James (Servant Siblings Book 1)James (Servant Siblings Book 1)

by Jenifer Jenningsby Jenifer Jennings

"Ever wanted to know what Jesus was like from the perspective of those who were the closest to Him?

A message from Jenifer Jennings:

 Dear Reader,

I'd like to take a moment to introduce this fictionalized family of Jesus before you dive into their stories. There are some things you might encounter in this series that don't perfectly align with traditional viewpoints. First, remember you discovered this book in the fiction section. The story's primary duty, as with all fiction, is to entertain. While doing so, my writing attempts to shed light on Scriptural truths and show God's work in our lives in the context of history and ancient culture, but these do not make it Canon. Second, remember that simply because one sect of Christianity holds a certain viewpoint, doesn't make it the only correct one. There are many traditions of all sects that are based on human interpretation and bias that don't find solid footing in Scripture. I am not speaking of doctrinal theology clearly laid out in God's Word, but those viewpoints and practices unique to sects that are merely traditions. It is often a delicate task for a Biblical Historical Fiction novelist to separate modern views from historical facts, ancient culture, and Biblical truth. I'd like to offer a few considerations based on research that might rub against modern views in this series.

One of those viewpoints is that Joseph and Jesus were carpenters. Some of us have vivid memories of sermons and dramas depicting Jesus working exclusively with wood. While not completely outside the realm of possibilities, the truth of their profession may more accurately align with what we would call a "handyman." The Greek word tektón appears only twice in the New Testament and encompasses a more general career of "craftsman." One Biblical reference is to Joseph (Matthew 13:55) and one about Jesus (Mark 6:3). Both of these references are found in the story of Jesus' denial in Nazareth. Both also speak of his familial relationship with his mother Mary, his four named brothers, and "all of his sisters." These people became the primary focus of this series. This word was later translated as "carpenter" by people who had a plethora of fantastic wood available and who used wood in prominent ways in their time. The fact is that during Jesus' days in Nazareth, wood was scarce and what was available would not have made suitable building materials outside of shelves, doors, or tables. Almost everything else was made of stone. As the Jewish population was reaching the heights of its legalism, stone became the most prominent building material. They preferred stone to wood because wood absorbed impurities while stone did not. There have also been archaeological discoveries that reveal a stone quarry near Nazareth, which contained a workshop where stone items were produced on-site. A city called Sepphoris was also within walking distance of Nazareth and was undergoing mass stone building projects during the years of Jesus. These seem to point to a culture more focused on stonework over wood. Does that mean Jesus never worked with wood? Absolutely not. But these discoveries paint a picture in which Joseph, seeking to care for a family of at least nine people, might have focused his skills more on stone and taught his sons to do the same. This family might have had expanded skills in building design, woodwork, masonry, and more.

The second viewpoint is a much more delicate and highly debated one. Though I have no room here (or desire) to debate centuries' worth of viewpoints and traditions, I would like to address one person who might step into a different light in this series. While imagining the family surrounding Jesus, I had to come to decisions about his mother, Mary. Studying under Protestant teachings, I know views on Mary as I understand them significantly differ from those of other Christian sects. My goal in developing Mary as a character was not to paint in her light of a certain sect, but to show her as real as possible. Being human, she might have made choices that do not line up with certain modern viewpoints. I kept asking myself, "If she honestly believed her son was Messiah, what would she do in this situation?" Answering those questions in my imagination resulted in situations in these stories that might clash with certain modern viewpoints. That creative choice formed conflicts in this fictionalized world; another goal of writers. Though even those find resolutions as the series progresses. Characters in stories must grow, so they must start with a need for growth. This extended into Jesus' relationship with the people listed in the two passages about his denial in Nazareth. The view of the exact relationship is also a highly debated topic that will not find space to flush out here. I portrayed the simplest explanation that fit within the culture; they were his half-siblings, children of Mary and Joseph after their consummated marriage.

One glaring fact remains; we know very little about Jesus' family. We can make a few educated guesses considering culture and archeology and tie them to the casual mentions in Scripture. These foundations are what I built my fictional story upon; not modern traditions. My prayer is that these stories will help you see Jesus in the context of family and culture. The primary goal was not to paint a picture of perfection but one of reality and historical context. Let's take Bible people off their pedestals and put them in the dirt beside us. They were real, like us. They struggled, like us. And, like us, they encountered God and His Messiah who changed their lives.

~Jenifer Jennings

The Christmas Ring by Karen Kingsbury

 

Karen Kingsbury's The Christmas Ring is a sweet, clean, fast read. I enjoyed the story, the setting and the characters. It was a cool, windy day. I fixed a cup of tea and settled in to read, 3 cups of tea later the book was done. So if you have the time settle in with a book filled with love and a miracle or two.

I was given a copy of The Christmas Ring with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.

From Amazon:

See the movie in theaters beginning November 6--staring Kelsey Grammer, Benjamin Hollingsworth, Jana Kramer, and Jessie James Decker!

Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

While searching for her family's long-lost heirloom ring, military widow Vanessa Mayfield meets handsome antique dealer Ben Miller. The two are drawn to each other and forge a friendship that soon becomes a deep and breathtaking romance. But neither are sure that what they've found can last.

As Vanessa organizes her annual Columbus Cares Christmas Military Dance, she looks forward to her daughter's return from college. But Vanessa hasn't told Sadie about Ben. After all, Vanessa hadn't anticipated finding love again after losing her husband. And now she wrestles with feelings that are becoming hard to ignore.

Just as Ben is about to declare his love for Vanessa, he learns more about her missing Christmas ring: her great grandfather found it in France on D-Day, and engraved on the band is a single meaningful word. The details confirm a terrible truth, one that Ben cannot ignore.

Certain he now knows where Vanessa's ring is, Ben leaves town in a frantic rush. But can he stop a certain sale, or will Vanessa's ring be lost forever? Days before Christmas, when all seems hopeless, Ben and Vanessa learn an important eternal truth: Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

About the author:

Karen Kingsbury, #1 New York Times bestselling novelist, is America’s favorite inspirational storyteller, with more than twenty-five million copies of her award-winning books in print. Her last dozen titles have topped bestseller lists and many of her novels are under development with Hallmark Films and as major motion pictures. Her Baxter Family books are being developed into a TV series slated for major network viewing sometime in the next year. Karen is also an adjunct professor of writing at Liberty University. In 2001 she and her husband, Don, adopted three boys from Haiti, doubling their family in a matter of months. Today the couple has joined the ranks of empty-nesters, living in Tennessee near five of their adult children.

Untaken For Now: 12 Months Following The Rapture by C.O. Wyler

Untaken For Now is the fourth book in C. O. Wyler's end times series. I have been reading each book as they come out and the growth of AI from book one to book four is incredible. In the Book of Daniel, the prophet is instructed to "shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end; many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall increase" (Daniel 12:4). I truly believe that we are getting close. Ms. Wyler has done a phenominal job describing what life might be like after the rapture. I highly recommend this series of books, and yes they should be read in order. Book one, Untaken is always free on Kindle.

So settle in for an intriguing , if disturbing read. Make sure you are ready so that you are not among the Untaken.

I was given a copy of this book for review purposes, with no requirement for a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

Roman's 10:9,10  9 If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.

From Amazon:

What does it take to survive the year after the Rapture happens? 

Follow Sarah and her friends as they experience the first year after the Rapture when the seven-year Tribulation has begun. As the One World League hunts them down, will those who believe in the One True God survive in their hidden home in the hillside of the rural Hackett farm, or will any become martyrs for their faith?

"C O Wyler's fourth novel in her end times series, Untaken for Now, will, I believe, excite believers in Christ's promise to rapture them and cause unbelievers to seriously consider their need to come to Jesus Christ for salvation. A truly God-sent story for these end days." ~ Terry James, Raptureready.com / Terryjamesprophecyline.com

"Untaken for Now is more than a story of predictive events; it's a testament to humanity's future. It sheds a guiding light for all believers to follow and unbelievers to consider."  ~ Roger Campbell, book reviewer

"Author C O Wyler's unique and gifted writing style will captivate and challenge you to seek the Truth. Get all four books in this amazing series." ~ Sandee Christofferson, women's Bible study teacher

 About the author:

Born and raised in Southern California, Wyler is a Christian who lives in the Pacific Northwest. Having owned a business for over thirty years, she is retired and enjoys spending time with her family and traveling.