I Can Choose Joy with God

I CAN CHOOSE JOY WITH GOD

by Ganel-Lyn Condie

When the trials of life seem too much to bear, 
joy can feel beyond reach. 

However, with words of encouragement and hope, Ganel-Lyn Condie reassures readers that joy is not only possible but also well within our grasp as we choose to turn to the Lord with our burdens. 

The next in the popular With God series, I Can Choose Joy with God is a powerful compilation of essays written by women of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that offers a compelling look at the struggles they faced and how they found joy even in their darkest hours. 

From parental concerns to financial hardships to debilitating anxiety, these personal accounts demonstrate the incomparable strength that can be harnessed through faith in a loving Heavenly Father. 

Though no one can avoid being tossed by the tempestuous sea of mortality, everyone can fine true joy as they hold tight to the lifeline of salvation Jesus Christ provides.

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This book is AMAZING! I. Loved. Loved. Loved. it!
The stories are heart-felt and incredibly uplifting.
This book really will help inspire you to "Choose Joy with God"
even amidst your own trials and pain.

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The Parable of the Chocolate Chips

THE PARABLE OF THE CHOCOLATE CHIPS

by Sharon Larsen

A parable can be a memorable way to teach a spiritual truth, as demonstrated by author Sharon Larsen, former counselor in the Young Women general presidency.

In this fictitious, but true-to-life story, a young princess discovers that the little choices we make every day are often more important than we think. 

Any decision can make us stronger in our commitment to righteousness — or it can weaken our resolve to follow the strait and narrow path. 

Illustrated by Howard Fullmer (illustrator of The King's Highway, a finalist for ForeWord Magazine's Book-of-the-Year Award), this timely message is a model for overcoming our own challenges and temptations.

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I love how this message was presented!

Without lecturing the author shows just how cunning the devil is.

Her story explains how little by little we can be led to do his will.

We must be ever so careful!

Everyone needs to read this book-

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Watch Your Back

WATCH YOUR BACK

by Clair M. Poulson

When local radio personality Bronson Melville is accused of murder, the crime appears to be one of passion. The case should be open and shut.

But as Detective Gage Tipson soon discovers, this homicide is just one piece in a diabolical puzzle that will test his instincts to their limit.

As Gage struggles to uncover the evidence that will bring down the suspect once and for all, he finds his efforts frustrated at every turn by the ruthless interference of Melville's big-shot attorney.

When a second body is discovered, the shocking identity of the victim strikes dangerously close to home, and Gage's investigation gets personal.

With his theories turned upside down, Gage is back to the drawing board—but this time, with the assistance of a beautiful woman as intent on finding the truth as he is.

Time is running out as Gage tracks the twisted trial of a murderer who will not hesitate to kill again . . .

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What a fun book!
Murder, missing person, false accusations, another murder, and more-
Can you figure it out before the book ends?
I recommend anything written by Clair M Poulson!

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From Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday

FROM PALM SUNDAY TO EASTER SUNDAY

by Stephen R. Christiansen

No combined events over the course of a single week can compare to those that transpired in the life of Jesus Christ during Holy Week. It began with His triumphant entry into the city of Jerusalem and ended with His glorious Resurrection from the dead. But what occurred between Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday?

Author Stephen R. Christiansen’s inspiring work invites readers to explore and understand the events of the final week of Jesus Christ’s mortal ministry in vivid detail, with discussion of events ranging from the Last Supper to Christ’s Atonement to His Crucifixion.

Far more than a simple chronological account, this volume inspires thoughtful study, emotional connection, and personal revelation. With chapters designed to be read during each day of Holy Week, it gives readers the unique opportunity to delve into Christ’s final acts and contemplate compelling daily questions.

Come to more fully understand the Savior’s final week, His ultimate sacrifice, and His role in your life as you discover the eternal implications of what occurred from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday.

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I am in the middle of this book-

It has been AMAZING to read the key points of each day of the Savior's last week before the crucifixion and resurrection.

Everyone needs to read this book!

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When Life Gets You Down, Rise Up!

WHEN LIFE GETS YOU DOWN, RISE UP!

by Kacey McCallister

It was a crisp winter day when six-year-old Kacey McCallister lost both of his legs, forever altering the course of his life. This unthinkable trial could have broken him, but from that day forward he chose to rise above his circumstances and learn to live without limits.

For those struggling to find hope in the depths of physical, spiritual, or emotional trials, this incredible story of one man's unbreakable courage will inspire and motivate readers to not only survive but thrive amidst life's challenges.

A true testament to the power of the human spirit, When Life Gets You Down, Rise Up! demonstrates the refining power that can be found in the midst of overwhelming odds, a power available to all who will take hold of it and rise.

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This book is PHENOMENAL!

I loved every minute of it!

Every story is fabulous, every detail is incredible!

Kacey McCallister really is a positive influence-

He is simply AMAZING!

I highly recommend this book!

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Smart Move

SMART MOVE

by Melanie Jacobson

The spark was undeniable the night Sandy Burke met the devastatingly handsome Jake. Conversation had flowed easily, so after they’d parted, she’d waited eagerly for his call. It never came.

A high-powered career woman at the ripe old age of twenty-seven, Sandy feels she has had her heart broken one too many times, and now the redheaded trendsetter is facing a major quarter-life crisis. After some introspection, Sandy determines that helping others may be the key to helping herself. 

When she’s presented with a job offer in Washington DC as the director of New Horizons, a nonprofit organization benefiting women in poverty, it seems providential. But now that she’s moved, two major obstacles threaten the success of her first assignment. The first is her mother and her constant fog of less-than-helpful New-Age advice. Secondly, plans to build another New Horizons outreach center have come to a screeching halt, thanks to the interference of a pesky lawyer and his attempts to reverse zoning approval for the building project. 

After weeks of verbal sparring over the phone, Sandy is in for a shock when she comes face-to-face with her foe. The smooth voice at the other end of the line is a heart wrenching blast from the past. In this twist of fate, Sandy sees the perfect opportunity to ensure the success of the outreach center—and to enact a little payback on this man she thought she’d left behind. 

And so the battle of wits begins. Will Sandy’s ‘flirt-to-convert’ plot sway her nemesis’s determination to block the center, or will his charming and undeniably attractive ways convince the sassy redhead to give love a second chance?

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What a fun book!
I love the twist that the voice on the phone, that has become her biggest obstacle, is the man she fell head-over-heals for in an earlier period of her life-- without her knowing that it is the same person. 
This makes for great "battle of wits" to see it to the end.
And wait until you meet Sandy's mom--
This book is definitely an enjoyable read!

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Escape to Everly Manor

ESCAPE TO EVERLY MANOR

by Chalon Linton

Nineteen-year-old Lizzy and her young brother, Thomas, find themselves orphaned after a tragic accident claims the lives of their parents. Their estrange Uncle Cline arrives to claim his inheritance, and his roguish ways cast a shadow over the manor. Both the family estate and guardianship of his niece and nephew were left to him, and scheming Uncle Cline is determined to indulge his newfound wealth and rid himself of his charges. Desperate to save her brother form a dangerous life at sea, and herself from being married off to a detestable old gentleman, Lizzy knows there is only one choice left—they must run.

Lizzy and Thomas sneak away and find refuge in an abandoned cabin. There they remain hidden—until fate acquaints Lizzy with Mr. Barton, a charming gentleman who is immediately intrigued by the mysterious young woman. Concealing her identity, Lizzy is unaware that there is much more to this compassionate man than meets the eye. Through his kindness to herself and her brother, Lizzy begins to trust Mr. Barton. Soon Lizzy realizes he may be her best hope for a life in which she can live—and love—as she chooses . . .

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A WONDERFUL BOOK!
Everything a regency romance should be!
Turmoil, twists, and tenderness.
And of course running from and towards love.
Absolutely adored this book!

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Don't Look Back (You're Not Going That Way!)

DON'T LOOK BACK

(YOU'RE NOT GOING THAT WAY!)

by Eric D. Richards

Living in the present and looking ahead to the future despite sins or trials or mistakes in the past is often challenging. Having an attitude of faith and hope, even when things haven't gone our way, is key to being happy and successful in life.

With analogies from everyday living, popular speaker Eric D. Richards shares a fun and upbeat fireside message and provides a positive approach to principles of repentance, forgiveness, and kindness.

In his unique way, Brother Richards uses humor, inspiring stories, scriptures, and doctrine to remind listeners that the Lord has commanded us to look ahead and not behind. 

"When we look back at the past and relive hurts or focus on mistakes, we can damage relationships and undermine our faith," Brother Richards teaches. "It's natural to want to look back—but we have to intentionally look forward so the pain of the past doesn't steal the promises of tomorrow. 

Looking ahead gives birth to overcoming feelings of depression and doubt, despite the worst of circumstances. 

Youth and adults of all ages will appreciate this spirited message centered on our Savior, Jesus Christ.

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I am one who looks "back" often. I allow my past to haunt me.

It is not healthy and it is not good. I so want to change.

This talk is AMAZING!

I highly encourage everyone to listen to it!

It really will help you to " intentionally look forward so the pain of the past doesn't steal the promises of tomorrow."

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Holy as You Are

HOLY AS YOU ARE

by Christie Gardiner

What if ordinary is extraordinary? 

What if you are Holy As You Are?

When referenced in the scriptures, the word holy means to "set apart for a sacred purpose." It is a description all women who seek to follow Christ want to embody—but the struggle between the ideal of a holy life and reality can seem far apart. 

In Holy As You Are, best-selling author Christie Gardiner seeks to close the gap reminding women of the holy attributes they already possess and how they can accomplish extraordinary ordinary things that will forever change the landscape and heart-scape of their world.

With a wealth of spiritual guidance and upbeat wisdom that doesn't shy away from difficult topics, this inspired volume challenges readers to look at their tragedies and triumphs and everything in between as sacred opportunities to choose holiness. 

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My heart needed this book-

With the rain pouring outside, I sat quietly in my living room with the candles lit, curled up on the couch, allowing this book to bring peace to my soul with the words and messages held within.

I love that the author, herself, read this book to me. She brought out the passion she felt as she wrote this book and conveyed to me the love my Father has for me. As she read I felt a desire to seek out the purpose I am to have at this time of my life.

I also understood the message of the book that even though I feel ordinary, I am truly extraordinary to many as I find and serve them.

Every woman needs to read this book!

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Bloodline

BLOODLINE

by Kathi Oram Peterson

France, 1371. The old Queen of France lies on her deathbed with a secret she will take to her grave: there is one true heir to the throne, one who would have the power to ally France and Scotland. But after her death, all that will be left are a few shreds of evidence revealing the stunning identity of her successor.

Flight attendant Skye Armstrong has heard the voice of warning before, and as she's returning home from London, she recognizes the feeling of dread that accompanies her sixth sense. Walking from the airport terminal to her car, she pauses in the middle of the road.

Her hesitation gives a Good Samaritan the split second he needs to pull her out of the path of a speeding car, saving her life. But her misfortunes are just beginning.

When she arrives home, she discovers that Auntie Marjorie has been kidnapped, and cryptic instructions have been left behind: Skye must retrieve the contents of a safe deposit box and deliver it to the captors . . .

No police. Her feelings of dread return.

What Skye discovers in the bank box is baffling: a single page. The ancient document is certainly valuable, and with no time to lose, she goes to the rendezvous to discover the next step. A cell phone rings beneath a park bench. She answers the call, and on the screen is a picture of Auntie, unconscious. Now the kidnapper demands Skye find two more pages or her aunt will die.

What secrets are hidden within the illuminated pages, and who believes they are worth killing for? And what roles does the Good Samaritan play in all of it?

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LOVED. LOVED. LOVED. THIS. BOOK!
From the very first page to very end-- I loved it all!
I highly recommend this one!

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Reading for Free during April

READING FOR FREE

DURING THE MONTH OF APRIL

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I LOVE reading for Free with Bookshelf PLUS! It is super easy! 

I pay for the PLUS subscription once a year 

and then download all the books I want--

No Wait list * No due dates * No limits 
*FREE trial subscription for 30-days*

Click HERE to see how Bookshelf Plus works
Then join me in reading for FREE during the month of APRIL

MY APRIL BOOKS COST COMPARISON
$9.99 - a month for Bookshelf PLUS (1st month is FREE) 
$136.85 - if these book had been purchased on Kindle 

* I pay the yearly subscription of $99 -
I have completely made up that price and
still have many more months of FREE reading.

13- Miss Adeline's Match

Audiobook is FREE with PLUS

I listened to Joanna Barker's book The Truth about Miss Ashbourne a couple of months ago and loved it-- so when I saw this book I just had to grab it--

12- I Can Choose Joy with God by Ganel-Lyn Condie

Audiobook is FREE with PLUS

I love the books that Ganel-Lyn Condie puts together!

This one shares stories of hope from faithful women.

I am eager to get it started--

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This book is AMAZING! I. Loved. Loved. Loved. it!

The stories are heart-felt and incredibly uplifting.

This book really will help inspire you to "Choose Joy with God" even amidst your own trials and pain.

11- Parable of the Chocolate Chips by Sharon Larsen

eBook is FREE with PLUS

Spring Break ended today for me-
I need to hit the books again-- sadly not the "fun" books

I do love my classes though so it is worth it.
You will just see a slowing down of my reading--
Today I chose to download this book-

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I love how this message was presented! Without lecturing the author shows just how cunning the devil is. Her story explains how little by little we can be led to do his will.

We must be ever so careful!

Everyone needs to read this book-

10- Watch Your Back by Clair M. Poulson

Audiobook if FREE with PLUS

I love Spring Break!
I am getting through so much of my To-Be-Read list.

I love that there is no limit to how much I can download in a month.

Today I am in the mood for a good mystery/suspense and I love Clair M. Poulson's books.

I am excited to start this one today

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What a fun book!

Murder, missing person, false accusations, another murder, and more-

Can you figure it out before the book ends?

I recommend anything written by Clair M Poulson!

9- When Life Gets You Down, Rise Up! 
by Kacey McCallister

Audiobook is FREE with PLUS

I saw the cover of this book and knew I absolutely had to read it!

Just looking at the author I knew I was in for a great story and motivation to live my life a little better.

As this book is read by the author I look forward to listening to him tell his own story directly to me as if I was right there with him.

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This book is PHENOMENAL!

I loved every minute of it!

Every story is fabulous, every detail is incredible!

Kacey McCallister really is a positive influence-

He is simply AMAZING!

I highly recommend this book!

8- Smart Move by Melanie Jacobson

eBook is FREE with PLUS

Spring Break ends in about 9 days for me so I have to get in a much "fun" reading as I can before I have to go back to "textbook" reading :)

This book is a little older, and I was surprised that I hadn't already read it.

However, as my heart, and brain, are ready for a little fun. so I thought this was a great choice.

I love Melanie Jacobson's books and am anxious to start this one.
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What a fun book!

I love the twist that the voice on the phone, that has become her biggest obstacle, is the man she fell head-over-heals for in an earlier period of her life-- without her knowing that it is the same person.

This makes for great "battle of wits" to see it to the end.

And wait until you meet Sandy's mom--

This book is definitely an enjoyable read!

7- Don't Look Back (You're Not Going That Way!) by Eric D. Richards

Audiobook is FREE with PLUS

My husband and I came home from dinner and asked each other that age-old question of "now what do you want to do?"

While we were deciding, my husband wandered over to the table with the jigsaw puzzle on it. I agreed that working on the puzzle would be a fun way to spend the evening.

But I wanted just a little more-- So I downloaded this talk for us to listen to.
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IT IS AMAZING!
I am one who looks "back" often. I allow my past to haunt me.
It is not healthy and it is not good. I so want to change.

I highly encourage everyone to listen to it!
It really will help you to " intentionally look forward so the pain of the past doesn't steal the promises of tomorrow."

6- Escape to Everly Manor by Chalon Linton

Audiobook is FREE with PLUS

Holy as You Are was SO GOOD I couldn't stop reading until it was finished-- so I am ready for a new book already-- I told you I was taking advantage of reading as much as I can during Spring Break

In the past I have read a lot of Romantic Suspense. It is one of my most favorite genre's -- however, a couple of years ago I was introduced to Regency Romance and am loving them!

Let's see if I can get anything else done today, besides read :)

Of course, when I listen to audio, I can listen while cleaning, walking, driving, etc...

5- HOLY AS YOU ARE by Christie Gardiner

Audiobook is FREE with PLUS

I am taking online classes to get a Bachelor's degree in University Studies with a minor in Family History Research-- and I am on Spring Break :)

So I am taking full advantage of of reading as much as I can while getting as much housework done as I can.

This is the book I started today--

I love the quote from the book blurb:

"What if ordinary is extraordinary? 
What if you are Holy As You Are?"

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My heart needed this book- With the rain pouring outside, I sat quietly in my living room with the candles lit, curled up on the couch, allowing this book to bring peace to my soul with the words and messages held within.

I love that the author, herself, read this book to me. She brought out the passion she felt as she wrote this book and conveyed to me the love my Father has for me. As she read I felt a desire to seek out the purpose I am to have at this time of my life.

I also understood the message of the book that even though I feel ordinary, I am truly extraordinary to many as I find and serve them.

Every woman needs to read this book!

4- BLOODLINE by Kathi Oram Peterson

Audiobook is FREE with PLUS

This is the book I downloaded this morning.
I am LOVING IT!

Two years ago I would tell you I did not like audiobooks. If I wasn't reading from an actual page I would get distracted and let my mind wander.

Today I feel completely differently--
I have learned to focus on the book and actually get more done throughout the day.

So far this morning I have listened to 6 chapters-- I have also gone for a walk, done the dishes, worked on a jigsaw puzzle, and gotten ready for the day.

As soon as I finish this post I will turn the book back on, eat lunch, wash the windows in two sets of French doors, vacuum, and start the laundry.

While I don't relish doing housework I can testify that doing it while listening to a good book makes a world of difference!
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LOVED. LOVED. LOVED. THIS. BOOK!
From the very first page to very end-- I loved it all!
I highly recommend this one!

3- SAFE HOUSE by Shannon Symonds

eBook is FREE with PLUS

So well written and on a sensitive subject for spousal abuse this book is extremely intriguing. 

Each page captured me and held my attention from the story of the abused to the story of those trying to rescue them. 

I have better understanding now am so grateful the author shared this book.

2- SANCTUARY by Traci Hunter Abramson

Audiobook is FREE with PLUS

I love Traci Hunter Abramson's insight look into the military!

I cannot even imagine those who have given up their lives to become GHOSTS so they might continue to protect others.

And then there are those who fall in love with them and want to be with them-- only to have to keep their love a secret.

This book is a perfect blend of suspense and romance --

I highly recommend it!

1- A MONSTER LIKE ME by Wendy S. Swore

Audiobook is FREE with PLUS

I thoroughly enjoyed this book!

The vivid imaginations of a little girl will draw you in and capture your heart. I also love that this book is based on real events from the author's life. I appreciate her willingness to share not only her talent for writing, but her very tender feelings.

This book is PERFECT for a whole family to read-- together if possible.