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Debbie Zmuda Slonek

@debreads4fun

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Reader, reviewer, collector of bookish things.
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Have you ever played in the ocean with your back to the sea when a rogue wave surprises you and just knocks you over? Rogue waves can appear without warning, out of nowhere and in a very sneaky fashion. Now, figuratively speaking, a rogue wave can show up in the form of a person…a person with an insatiable curiosity and a rather sunny personality. This could be a problem if you are the grumpy sheriff who just so happens to live next door. I just introduced you to Hazel and Hank. This is their story. Brave, sassy Hazel and our tough, yet soft hearted hero Hank, really clashed when they first met. This drama/romance/mystery is filled with well developed and multi layered characters, entertaining banter, much humor and just enough danger to keep you on your toes. Hazel, a marine biologist who worked at the local aquarium, had the best interactions with the creatures she cared for. One specific creature was a huge challenge…Nigel the octopus. I loved his naughty antics and personality. So very entertaining! As the book came to a satisfying end, I was sad to say goodbye to many of the characters. This was a very entertaining read. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Booked With The Emily’s through BookFunnel. All thoughts expressed in this review are mine. @authorallisonbettes @bookedwiththeemilys #gifted #grumpysunshine #readandreview #fictionlovers #bookishescape by @debreads4fun
4
3 days ago
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While reading this book, I traveled back in time to Bynum Georgia in the year 1962. I met and quickly became attached to Beth and Marty, along with a great cast of supporting characters. As I was drawn more deeply into Beth and Marty’s story, I really loved how each of them had a special someone from an older generation who pored into them. This reminded me that we all need good mentors in our lives. Marty showed himself to be an amazingly intuitive man, a skill and attribute that he had honed under the influence of his beloved Uncle Gene. Beth received encouragement, kindness and loyalty from Molly. Under Molly’s influence, Beth grew into a young lady who extended grace, mercy and even forgiveness. I enjoyed how the love and importance of books and reading was worked into the very engaging storyline. From reading out loud to a roomful of kindergartners to reading their favorite books while sitting side by side in front of a crackling fireplace…the joy of reading was well represented. I loved the themes of reconciliation, forgiveness and second chances. So, so heartwarming. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kregel Publications. All thoughts expressed in this review are mine. @kregelbooks @evamarieeversonauthor #gifted #christianfiction #readandreview #thejoyofreading #readandrelax by @debreads4fun
0
11 days ago
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I was immediately attracted to the gorgeous cover of this book! A lush and colorful nighttime view of a forest with various mothers protecting, caring for and loving their children. I was intrigued by how my and others experiences of motherhood could expand my understanding of the heart of God. Being intrigued by the maternal heart of God may cause discomfort for some of you. That’s okay! Lean into your discomfort and allow some curiosity to come in. Time to do some exploring. As you read this book, you will not be asked to replace what you have always thought and believed about the heart of God. Instead, you will be asked to consider expanding your understandings and beliefs. In my faith walk, I have learned that there is plenty of room for both traditionally held beliefs and fresh new ideas. Chapter four really spoke to me. It covers longing, loss and infertility. I have experienced all 3. As I look back and remember those difficult times, I realize that God was always there, tenderly holding my hand and loving me with His Maternal Heart. I was reminded that doing the work of small love and joining in the ministry of interruption is important Kingdom Work. This book left me feeling validated, encouraged and like I made a new friend. I enjoyed this well written and very thoughtful book. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Brazos Press. All thoughts expressed in this review are mine. @elizabeth_a_berget @brazospress @readbakerbooks #gifted #christianbookstagram #booksworthreading #bookreview #readingtime by @debreads4fun
12
a month ago
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I very much enjoyed time traveling to 1837 Canada. This was a troubling and uncertain time as a rebellion was forming in Canadian bush country. Filled with adventure, danger, family drama and romance, this well crafted story is an example of historical fiction at its best. I loved the sibling relationships. Their bonds were tested, and then tested again. Secrets coming to light allowed truth to triumph and shame to be put to rest, once and for all. Let the healing begin… I loved how my favorite characters went from being alone and lonely to being fully known and fully loved. And, I loved how many of the characters formed a tight and supportive chosen family. I loved Charlotte’s deep connection to her horse, Scarlett. Charlotte loved Scarlett and Scarlett was devoted to Charlotte. I enjoy loving relationships between humans and animals. As Joshua was getting to know and love Charlotte, he quickly learned to expect the unexpected. The romance between Joshua and Charlotte was sweet and satisfying. I really enjoyed this book! I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers through NetGalley. All thoughts expressed in this review are mine. @christinehillsuntz @tyndalehouse @crazy4fiction #gifted #historicalromance #netgalley #summerreading #historicalfiction by @debreads4fun
9
a month ago
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A trio of Jersey girls, the Grace sisters, never expected to celebrate Christmas in July in their hometown of Cape May. They also never expected a storm to damage their beloved hometown. Current and former Cape May residents came together and pooled their talents and resources. Damage was repaired and hope was restored. I loved the character of Grand Lillian. She was instrumental in connecting the many dots in her granddaughters’ lives and in her much loved town. I really enjoyed reading along as each of the Grace sisters found someone that made their hearts happy, someone that they couldn’t imagine living without. I sure do love happy endings! This really was the Perfect Summer Read! I received a complimentary copy of this heartwarming book. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own. @kbrightonauthor #gifted #beachreads #summerreading #bookishthoughts #readit by @debreads4fun
5
2 months ago
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In Everything We Found, I found gripping suspense, tried and true friendships and satisfying romance. I also found storytelling that kept me engaged and turning the pages. This was a very emotional read for me as I attached quickly to many of the characters. I gasped and worried when they were in danger. True, sacrificial and intimate friendships were the backbone for this story. This book gave me an intimate look as to how some people in really tough situations are forced to make difficult decisions with rippling consequences. I truly loved how paths were opened up for these same people to reconcile, receive forgiveness and unpack their burdens. The core characters had really earned some happiness. The firestorms of life, meant to break them, forged even tighter, stronger and healthier bonds between a very special group of friends. So, so satisfying. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bookouture through Booked With The Emily’s and NetGalley. All thoughts expressed in this review are mine. @bookouture @bookedwiththeemilys @kerrylonsdale #gifted #bookishjoy #romanticsuspense #summerreading #netgalley by @debreads4fun
8
2 months ago
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How could a house just disappear? If your house suddenly went missing, what would you do? Who would you call? Well, if you lived in Redemption Wisconsin, you would call The Redemption Detective Agency. Redemption is a strange little town which is populated with some rather quirky and easily distracted characters. Apparently, it wasn’t unusual for people to disappear in Redemption. But, an entire house disappearing…now that was a whole new level of strange. Conversations between the quirky characters had great comedic timing. They were frequent travelers of bunny trails, which led to much hilarity. Each of the characters seemed to be storytellers themselves. I enjoyed the zany antics of the townspeople as they solved the mystery of the missing house. I really enjoyed coming across a minor character who shares my first name. So fun! I received a complimentary copy of this book from Booked With The Emily’s through Bookfunnel. All thoughts expressed in this review are mine. @bookedwiththeemilys @themichelepw #gifted #cozymystery #whodunit #summerreading #alwaysreading by @debreads4fun
6
2 months ago
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The idea of ten gentle spiritual practices drew me right in. I was not disappointed. Quietly reading this book comforted, taught and challenged me. I was reminded that tending to your soul is slow work and that I needed more peace in my heart, mind, soul and body. Reading this book will introduce and encourage you to try and even implement some practices, priorities and rhythms which can help strengthen your faith life and ease your weariness. Chapter 9 is my favorite. Those who know me well would not be surprised. As a lifelong avid reader, stories have made me feel like I am not alone and they have encouraged me to feel deeply. However, I have never considered my love of reading to be a gentle spiritual practice. What a wonderful concept! Stories can reveal truths and they can offer comfort. They can spark imagination and hope during our darkest moments. Stories can be your companions in sorrow and they can be a much needed balm for your weary soul. A most important lesson, gleaned from this book, is to cultivate curiosity. I have been incorporating this into my life and encouraging others to do the same. Friends, read this gentle book and remain curious. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kregel Publications. All thoughts expressed in this review are mine. @beckylmccoy @kregelbooks #gifted #christiannonfiction #bookrecommendations #christianbookstagram #bookreview by @debreads4fun
2
3 months ago
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Imagine a cross country road trip to find a runaway mom/grandma. What could possibly go wrong? Quite a few things, actually. What could possibly go right? A whole lot of things, including the things that mattered the most. As three generations of women get lost in the summer of ‘69, they gradually find themselves and each other in a glorious and heartwarming celebration of life. I love words. I love sentences. I love stories. Many thanks to the author for writing this beautifully told and most enjoyable story. This truly is a perfect summer read! Read this delightful book and experience some unfiltered joy. I know I did! I received a complimentary copy of this book from Sourcebooks Landmark through NetGalley. All thoughts expressed in this review are mine. #summerreading #gifted #netgalleyreviewer #bookworthreading #readingthenewbooks by @debreads4fun
4
3 months ago
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Reading this book reminded me that our lives are made up of many, many tiny moments. Many of these moments are seemingly insignificant, while others can be life changing. Some of these tiny moments are actually tiny steps which lead to wonderful new opportunities and joys. Tiny moments can happen as a result of our own choices, while others are totally out of our control. And, for those of you who like music, you will be treated to a smattering of songs which commemorate many of life’s tiny moments. What would you include in a playlist of your own tiny moments? I loved so many of the characters in this book. They were so well developed and well connected. Relationships between the characters were heartfelt and they felt so authentic. Throughout the story, loyalties were tested and trust was earned. Teamwork was a huge theme. It helped to solve mysteries, find lost treasures and even mend broken relationships. Also, a solid thread of faith was woven throughout this story. I must say something about the ending…it was brilliant and so, so satisfying! As I reached the very end of this book, I was filled with joy and optimism. I loved this book! I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kregel Publications. All thoughts expressed in this review are mine. @susanltuttle @kregelbooks #gifted #christianfiction #readandreview #romanticmystery #summerreading by @debreads4fun
1
3 months ago
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Prepare your favorite beverage, sit in your most favorite chair and read this rather enjoyable book. As I began reading, I was transported to England in the year 1814. The social rules and norms of the Regency era strictly determined marriage prospects. Most marriages were arranged, with much importance given to an individual’s social class. What’s a governess to do if she has always longed for a love-match? What’s an earl to do if he tried to make a traditional, socially acceptable choice and it ended in disaster? Might there be a better way to find true love? I loved how Charlotte and the Earl were so much more than the social classes that they had been raised in and prepared for. They saw worth and potential in all others around them. Charlotte’s perceptiveness, empathy and willingness to wait for the best that life has to offer led her to a true love-match. This historical romance was filled with hope, faith and love. It was a joy to read! I received complimentary copies of this book from Bethany House Publishers through UPLIT READS and NetGalley. All thoughts expressed in this review are mine. @melaniedickerson123 @uplitreads @bethanyhousefiction #melaniedickerson #giftedbyuplit #bhpfiction #regencyromance #historicalromance by @debreads4fun
2
4 months ago
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What do you think of when you hear the word forgiveness? Do you regularly extend forgiveness to others? Do you need to seek forgiveness from anyone? We currently live in a world which is overflowing with unchecked outrage and fear. It can become a constant state of being for many. What a distressing way to live! Could there be a better way? What might that look like? Consider the radical possibilities of forgiveness… The author unpacks the many aspects of forgiveness and shares profound examples of the power of forgiveness. The practice of forgiveness can lead to healing, restoration and reconciliation. Imagine our fractured and divided communities being covered with the healing balm of forgiveness. Thinking about this possibility gives me hope and a measure of peace. We must remember that forgiveness is never to be forced, it must always be a free choice. What can mend the brokenness that we see all around us? Forgiveness can. I highly recommend this well written and heartfelt book. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Brazos Press. All thoughts expressed in this review are mine. @amyorrewing @brazospress @readbakerbooks #gifted #christianbookstagram #bookreview #readthisbook #bookrecommendations by @debreads4fun
10
4 months ago
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