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| Stealing the Preacher |
Reviewed
by Marian Baay
5 stars~*****
Stealing the Preacher is the sequel to Short-Straw Bride. I learned this piece
of information halfway through the book because one of my friends mentioned it.
If I hadn’t known it was a sequel I had never figured that out by reading this
book—so the book can easily be read as stand-alone.
Abducted from a train by an ex-outlaw, Crockett Archer is presented to the
man’s daughter as a birthday present for her 21st birthday.
Joanna Robbins can’t believe that her father forced a preacher off the
train and brought him to her. Yes, she asked for a preacher, but never in her
wildest dreams could she imagine her father providing one. Silas Robbins is
against everything that has to do with religion. Joanna’s mother was a believer
and so is Joanna. When her mother died she promised to keep praying for her
father’s soul, but without her mother she feels lonely and lost. There’s no
preacher in town, so Joanna started praying for one to come. Now she has her
preacher, but he’s there against his will. He has dreams of his own—to preach
in another town. After she told him why she needs a preacher, she let him go.
Crockett is impressed by Joanna’s faith. When he resumes his travels to
the interview for a position in another church, he can’t get the beautiful
redhead out of his thoughts. Will he ever see her again?
Before I had seen the beautiful cover for this book I heard the title of
Karen’s next book would be Stealing the Preacher.
As a preacher’s wife I knew I had to read that book. When I saw the cover I was
completely in love! Reading the book brought even more pleasure than I imagined.
This book is definitely a must-read—worthy of 5 stars! Karen’s writing
is captivating, the characters are enjoyable and fun, and the story line is
nicely done. Highly recommended!
GIVEAWAY: A book by Karen Witemeyer of your choice. Answer the question to be entered in the contest, and don't forget to leave your email address as well.
QUESTION: Have you ever been on your way somewhere, when God called you to another destination?
___________________________________________
GIVEAWAY: A book by Karen Witemeyer of your choice. Answer the question to be entered in the contest, and don't forget to leave your email address as well.
QUESTION: Have you ever been on your way somewhere, when God called you to another destination?
I honestly cannot wait to read Stealing the Preacher when it gets delivered!! Wonderful review MARIAN... it sure sounds intriguing, and I am such a fan of KAREN'S stories so I KNOW it's going to be fantastic! :)
ReplyDeleteTried to think of a good example of God changing my direction while on my way somewhere and He has I suppose in many cases, but more so just changing my life's direction from what I thought it would be. I'm just so glad He is in control!!
Thank you, NOELA! I'm sure you will enjoy this fantatic new story by KAREN!!
DeleteThis is a wonderful review, Marian! Stealing the Preacher sounds like a book I'd love to read. The incident I thought of happened years ago. I was driving to the store in my normal route when, for some reason, I decided to take a left turn and go the long way 'round to the store. I never used this route! But that day, I did. Soon after I turned, diesel truck collided with several cars at that intersection. Several people killed. God is in control.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Joy. Wow, that was a powerful experience. So glad you decided to take that turn!! God is in control indeed. Hugs!
DeleteAbove review from Joy Ross Davis
ReplyDeleteGreat review Marian !!! looking forward to reading it... I can always depend on your reviews being right on the money...and something I look for.. I will be reading this..cute cover !! I have been distracted while driving somewhere and found myself going in another direction, but never noticed something that was wrong the other way, but I never worry because in my live God is in control ~ with him on my side, I am not afraid..
ReplyDeletehave a wonderful day !!! Rosemary
Thanks for sharing, ROSEMARY! You're so right - with God on our side, we don't have to be afraid! Amen!!
DeleteOh, this book sounds SO good! Thanks for a great review Marian!!
ReplyDeleteHmmm... Has God ever redirected my path? Well, There have been times when I've been going straight ahead and he's detoured me. Does that count? lol There was a time in high school that even though I KNEW I was called to be a counselor, I wanted to be an accountant. He redirected me back towards counseling.
This really is a GOOD book, LADETTE! I had so much fun reading it. :)
DeleteI have also wandered in other directions, but God always redirected me on the way He had in mind for me. He is good!
Great review! I often an on my way somewhere (metaphorically speaking) and God switches my direction. :) It always turns out the best ever, though it may be hard!
ReplyDeleteJoi Copeland
booksbyjoiatcopelandclandotcom
Yes JOI, you are so right. It can be hard sometimes.
DeleteGreat Review MARIAN of an awesome book. KAREN's books are always enjoyable. :)
ReplyDeleteI can't think of any particular situation where my destination was changed, but I've had GOD move me out of my comfort zone and I couldn't understand why until much later. GOD ALWAYS KNOWS BEST!!
Amen to that, TERESA! Looking forward to your review later this week!!
Delete"Just pull them, mow them off and move on." was the messaged to my spirit when a relative came to my house while I wasn't home and 'seeded' a weed/wild flower into my lily bed and poppy beds. My solutions had been to plow up the entire lily bed and dig tiger pits around the place to keep that woman out of my yard! I think every one of those seeds germinated and I was really angry -- white rage. But, I did as He directed and we have a nice few in the poppies and none in the lilies. Those 'nice few' will probably make more, but I know how to take care of the 'extras' because of divine direction.
ReplyDeleteThe LORD will direct your path! Blessings, JUDY!!
DeleteWhat a wonderful review as always, MARIAN! Karen is a great writer and her books highly entertaining! So now you must read Short Straw Bride, ja? :)
ReplyDeleteJa, I think I must. :) I may even have it on my Kindle.
DeleteHey Marian and Karen , enjoyed the interview . Karen this book Stealing The Preacher sounds so good . I would love to win and read it . Thank you for the giveaway .
ReplyDeleteBlessings
lizd225@gmail.com
ELIZABETH, thanks for stopping by! Good luck in the drawing!
DeleteSorry I realized I forgot to answer your question . We have started to go somewhere and get started when we realize that we had forgot something . We would turn around and go back . Well when we get started again on down the road there was a really bad wreck . So I feel like that was the reason we had to go back home because it could have been us in the wreck. Thanks again
ReplyDeletelisd225(at)gmail(dot)com
Such a special moment when you realize something like that. Blessings!
DeleteGreat review, Marian, and I'm with you -- LOVE the cover, which, by the way, is the 2nd cover they actually had for this book. This cover is a HUGE improvement over the first, so YAY!! LOVED Short Straw Bride, so know I will love this one as well because the premise is SO unique -- never been done before as far as I know, so KUDOS to Karen and to you for a wonderful review!!
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Julie
Thank you, JULIE! I also saw the 1st cover and I'm so glad they changed it. This one is just wonderful. Thanks for stopping by!!
DeleteI loved both Short Straw Bride and Stealing the Preacher! Actually I have loved all of Karen Witemeyer's books that I have read. Great review!!
ReplyDeleteJulie@My Favorite Pastime
gravesok(at)gmail(dot)com
Hey JULIE! So glad to hear you loved all of Karen's books.
DeleteI too forgot to answer the question! I agree with Noela(the first commentor) that I can't think of going in one direction and God changing that direction, but more like changing my life direction from what I thought it was going to be. Almost 16 years ago my husband was forced to change jobs because of base closures occurring. One of my dreams always was to raise our daughters in a community for the duration. I wanted them to grow up in one place. And marry and stay close by. That to me was what family should be(close together). But God had other ideas and moved us away from all of my family. But He provided a faith-family and friends that I wouldn't give up for anything and am so glad we didn't miss. At the time I was less than pleased with God for taking me out of my comfort zone and away from family. But now with my oldest daughter married and 3 grandchildren in the deal I can truly say that God has a perfect plan and HE is the one that dictates our steps. And that brings me comfort and peace. Sorry that's a long answer, but you did ask ;) LOL!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for sharing, JULIE. I love long answers in which God is glorified!! And that you did. Bless you!!
DeleteI LOVE Karen's books, and I loved Short Straw Bride, so I know I will love this one!! :) I have been on my way somewhere many times when God has called me to another direction. In my stubborn days I wouldn't always follow God's direction, but I have learned the hard way that His ways are SO MUCH better than my ways, and His plans are so much better than anything that I can ever plan or imagine for myself!!!! Thanks for the interview and chance to win! :)
ReplyDelete-Alli
allimo81(at)gmail(dot)com
ALLI, thanks for stoppping by. God's way is perfect, isn't it? Blessings.
DeleteI started going to a Bible study about two years ago, and was sure that it was where God wanted me. When things began to change and go downhill, my friend and I both agreed that it was time to stop going. It's been a year since that happened, but we both felt like it was what God wanted us to do.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the great giveaway! Great review! I read Short Straw Bride and can't wait for Stealing the Preacher!
lubell1106(at)gmail(dot)com
Thanks for sharing with us, Elyssa. Bless you.
DeleteStealing the Preacher sounds like a great book. Thanks for a chance to win a copy.
ReplyDeleteI could share a number of times God pointed me in another direction than I wanted to go. One such time was when my husband and I seriously considered buying his parents home as they were moving out of state. We lived in an apartment and expecting our second son. However God had different plans for us. We did not buy the house but bought a mobile home and lived there for over 20 years when God dropped a house in our laps. This house had everything I ever wanted in a home. By His grace we were able to buy the house and have been here for 15 years.
Blessings, Tina
Wow, that's great, TINA!
DeletePlease leave your email address, so that we can contact you if you're the winner.
Great review, Marian. :) My answer to the question is yes. When I was 19, I was going off to college to be a writer, but, over a 4-week period, God patiently talked me into staying with my family and taking on a music career instead. I wasn't happy to put my desire to write on hold, but God blessed my reluctant obedience. That was almost 6 years ago. 2 books later, I am still traveling with my family band, writing when I have the time. I wouldn't have it any other way, though. God really working on my faith during that first year, teaching me to rely on Him and to be sensitive to His leading. I am halfway through my first novel (had a proposal requested by a Love Inspired editor last week), so in the end, I can tell you that God does give you the desires of your heart. You just have to trust that when He reroutes you, it is for your benefit in the long run.
ReplyDeleteI so agree with that, ANNA. All the best in your music AND writing career!
DeleteAnd I forgot to leave my email address... Good job, Anna. ;)
ReplyDeletewriter_weaver(at)yahoo(dot)com
Thanks!!!
DeleteOh yes...I believe I have felt that way for the last 5 year's...long story, needs to be a book! I love your review, so want to read that book !
ReplyDeleteLinda Finn
faithfulacres7@gmail.com
Thanks for stopping by, LINDA! Good luck in the drawing.
DeleteSo love this review and so jealous you've read this already LOL. I cannot wait to read it. One, I am a pastor's daughter and just love the title..and because I loved the Archer family and cannot wait to read more!
ReplyDeleteMy answer to the question...yes. Mostly it has been to move me out of state. I was born in the south but since the age of 2, I grew up in NJ & NY. God called us to move to Virginia. Not that I have anything against Virginia..I was happy living in the north with my friends and my home, job etc. I of course followed God's call. Also, almost married a man...he was a great man and I loved him with all my heart...God told me no. That was a very hard decision. I have made a choice to follow God no matter what and to honor Him. I am now 37 and still not married..but I know God has a plan for me and my life. He has been with me every step of the way!
sunydey26@aol.com
Smiles,
Johnette
Thank you for sharing this with us, JOHNETTE! What a strong faith you must have had at that moment to say no to the man you loved with all your heart. God has a plan for you, for sure. May He bless you richly!
DeleteI don't believe I have ever read one of Karen's books, so I would love to win one--both books sound so good!
ReplyDeleteIt took me a few moments to think of I time when God changed my direction, but then I remembered a time when my direction was changed literally! I was a Sr in HS (a LONG time ago LOL) & my husband was a Freshman in college & we were dating. My hubby did not have his drivers license yet, so I was driving & we were headed "out of town" looking for someplace to spend some "alone time"' when I hit a patch of black ice & the car spun around until we were headed in the opposite direction! We both looked at each other & one of us (don't remember which of us) said, "We'll, I guess God didn't want us to go that way!" LOL
Vicki OWG
vmarney@hotmail.com
Funny story, VIKCI!! Good luck in the drawing. Blessings!
DeleteAlways a pleasure to read your reviews, Marian! I loved Short-Straw Bride and cannot wait to read this one!
ReplyDeleteOne of the most memorable times that God changed my direction about where I was going to go to school for university. I'm so glad because otherwise I wouldn't be where I am now, nor married to my best friend, who I met at school (which was another thing I told God I wouldn't do - oh how He must have chuckled at my little "promises" of what wouldn't happen).
Thanks for the change to win!
Beth
bharbin07[at]gmail[dot]com
Thank you, BETH. God knows us so much better than we do know ourselves!
DeleteI guess you could say I have, but not in the way you probably mean. I was on my way to being the ideal Christian wife and supermom (in my dreams) when God landed me on my backside. Yes, I'm a wife - a christian wife. Yes, I'm a mom - one who adores her boys. But I'm a chronically ill wife and mom which for me equals shattered dreams. In the process, God has put me on the road to writing about other women recovering from their own shattered lives.
ReplyDeleteKaren is one of my top ten favorite authors. I'd LOVE to win a copy of her book! I can't wait to read yet another masterpiece! lr dot mullin at live dot com
Thanks for sharing with us, LINNETTE. I pray you are an encouragement to many women!
DeleteBlessings!
I was going to a church that I hadn't been to before because a friend invited me. I took a wrong turn and ended up at a different church but it turned out a friend that i hadn't seen in a long time was preaching. Sharma Darby rdarby@roadrunner.com
ReplyDeleteThat's great, SHARMA! All the best in the drawing.
DeleteAbout 15 years ago, my husband and I were going through a very rough time. I wanted to get a divorce, and went as far as seeing a lawyer. I held off though, and am very glad I did. We are closer than ever now! Glad that God stayed my hand.
ReplyDeletejosieringer(at)gmail(dot)com
Wow, that is amazing MARTHA! So glad that God is in control. Bless you!
DeleteYes, sometimes daily, we could all say this happens to us. The book sounds great!!!
ReplyDeletecrystalroach@cableone.net
Blessings, CRYSTAL!
DeleteStealing the Preacher sounds like a book I'd love to read. , please enter me in your giveaway thanks
ReplyDeletejcisforme@aol.com
Thanks for stopping by, SHIRLEY!
DeleteIt's funny how God directs our steps, isn't it. When I was in high school I had this idea I was going to go to Business College right out of the gate. Well, after high school I ended up working for almost a year and travelling for a month. So grateful for the experience. Then I decided I wanted to work with animals. After three painful years of it not working well (bouncing from one job to the next) God planted me in a condo development company as a receptionist (my schooling was in Animal Care, not Business) where I worked full time for 4 years, right up until a month before I gave birth to my sweet darling. Four and a half years after that, and having been a stay at home mom up until that point, God put me in a position as a dental receptionist. Interesting how my experience as a receptionist helped with getting this job and the medical training I received earlier (which I thought would be used to eventually become a veterinarian) has helped me with not only getting my current job, but also in making it very easy to just slip into the role.
ReplyDeleteAwesome how God directed your path, AMY. Thanks for sharing!
DeleteGreat review, Marian, sounds like a great book. I loved Crockett in Short Straw bride :)
ReplyDeletecrazi.swans @ gmail dot com
FAYE, always nice to see your smiling face! Can you please answer the question? Then we'll make sure you're entered in the contest.
DeleteToo many times to count!
ReplyDeletegjac444(at)gmail(dot)com
Thanks for stopping by, G.
DeleteHi Marian. I love sequels, and since I have Short Straw Bride I'm ready for Stealing the Preacher. To answer your question: I would say this time in my life is my latest change of direction from God. But it's not about near misses in traffic or locations (although I've had a few memorable ones). This redirect is about making Him my default, not my reset. I was mired in "If Only" and He's changed my direction to "Taste and See". So I've stopped struggling to put Him first on my mental list, and instead He has become the Source from which all of my lists are made. I'm having so much fun learning that He wants to give me my heart's desires. I'm feeling and looking younger all the time (really nice since I'M SO FAR PAST AGE 25, haha), and I'm dreaming again. Hope that doesn't sound confusing. Really, He has redirected me from Life of Wishing to Live the Dream with Me! And I truly do not want to dwell in shadows when He's offering Light. Thanks for the opportunity.
ReplyDeleteNo you're not confusing, ELLE. Everything you said made perfect sense to me. Since I was able to put EVERYTHING in God's hands I was enjoying life more, felt and looked younger as well. We have eternal life, so what matters what age we are really? :)
DeletePlease leave your email address, so we can contact you if you win.
I agree - the cover is adorable!! It sounds like a fun and unique plot. Definitely on my TBR list. :) As for the question, well nothing specific comes to mind which leads me to think I haven't had it happen to me. Maybe I haven't gone travelling enough.
ReplyDeleteSusan P
farmygirl at hotmail dot com
This book certainly has a fun and unique plot, SUSAN! All the best in the drawing.
DeleteI have loved each and every one of Karen's books! I love a book that can make you laugh.
ReplyDeleteNo answer comes to mind right off to your question, so I guess that would be a no.
pattymh2000(at)yahoo(dot)com
Hey PATTY, thanks for stopping by and good luck!!
DeleteFirst of all, I very very much enjoy her books. SO good! I got Short Straw Bride and had it read the same day. =) I would love to win this.
ReplyDeleteAs far as your question, growing up I was very happy and content to live in my small city in Montana. I was surrounded by my family and a great group of friends that I had grown up with. My husband and I got married and a few months later Sept 11th happened. My husband decided to reenlist into the Marine Corps. I immediately said no way! There was no way I wanted to leave my cozy little life there and I had this happy little life plan mapped out. God worked on my heart and I ended up going along with the plan and here we are 12 years later still in the military and happy as ever. Looking back I see that God changing MY direction was for the best of my marriage. Moving away from my comfort zone really helped my husband and I to get closer to each other. Not sure if that was where you were going with the question but... =)
Thanks!
Melissa
Battles2001@hotmail.com
Great testimony, MELISSA! Thanks for sharing. Blessings!
DeleteI had worked in the collections field for banks, credit bureaus, & retail stores for 15 years when I went with a friend to see a passion play about the life of Christ - while on vacation 4+ hours from my home. The Lord used that drama to speak to me & draw me back to Him - I lived alone, & without knowing anyone there, having a place to live, or another job, left my job & moved so that I could become a cast member of that play. I knew, without a doubt, that He was leading me there & it was the most rewarding experience of my life.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the giveaway opportunity!
bonnieroof60@yahoo.con
Isn't it great when God is so clearly showing his will for our life! Bless you, BONNIE.
DeleteTo answer your question ,no i have never been on my way somewhere, when God called you to another destination? i love your books and hope i win thanks
ReplyDeletejcisforme@aol.com
All the best in the draw, SHIRLEY.
DeleteI think perhaps the biggest change in direction came when my husband thought he had a job that he could have until he someday wanted to retire - a long way down the road...lol. However, the Lord took that job away from him, and we certainly wondered why. Just this past Sunday in church, as the pastor spoke on knowing your purpose in life, my hubs whispered - 'that is the purpose'. Naturally I had no idea what he was talking about, but over lunch he elaborated. The Lord had taken away the other job to give him the one he has now - a much better position, with many more opportunities to positively affect the lives of others - believers or nonbelievers.
ReplyDeleteI have not read either of these books, and they both sound like they would be a treat to read. Thanks for the giveaway :)
Betti
bettimace(at)gmail(dot)com
Most of the times we see God was directing our paths long after He did it. And when we see that, it is such a wonderful experience!
DeleteBlessings to you and your husband, BETTI.
I don't think I've ever been on my way somewhere and then God called me to another destination. However, there have been plenty of times when I've been in my comfortable rut and God has called me (our family) to move elsewhere. I've learned it's much better to just go when He calls, rather than fight it.
ReplyDeleteI read Short-Straw Bride and liked it very much so am looking forward to reading Crockett's story in Stealing the Preacher. I really like Karen's books. Thanks for the chance to win one here.
pmk56[at]sbcglobal[dot]net
You're right--better go when God calls! Glad to hear you enjoy KAREN's books, PAM!
DeleteI can't think of a time when I was going somewhere and then God called me somewhere else. My husband has though! After high school, he was supposed to go to a college up north(I can't remember which one) but at the last minute, he felt like God told him he wasn't supposed to go. So, he stayed home, and then he met me!! So glad he didn't go!
ReplyDeleteWould love to win!
candicervaldez[at]gmail[dot]com
Great story - God Romance! Blessings, CANDICE.
DeleteGreat review Marian! I loved this book and Short Straw-Bride too!
ReplyDeleteThinking about your question. What comes to mind at the moment is, on the day that my Mom passed away, my plans for that morning was to go to Auburn (at town about 15 miles away) to get my hair trimmed and to shop a little at Wal-mart before coming home. I knew my sister planned to go over to Mom's that day and so I wasn't going to go. I had a strong urge to call my Mom before leaving. When she answered she said, Judy, I am having a hard time breathing, can you come over right away. I am thoroughly convinced that she would have died that morning if I wouldn't have called. I dialed 911 right away and they arrived shortly after I got there. Mom did pass away around 6 p.m. that night. I was able to tell her good-bye and that I loved her.
I would love to win a book of Karen's.
Blessings!
Judy B
judyjohn2004(at)yahoo(dot)com
Thank you, JUDY! It's priceless that you were able to say good-bye to your mom.
DeleteGood luck in the drawing.
I love Karen's books and am anxious to read this one!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the giveaway.
Years ago, we had visited our daughter and family out of state. As we started to leave, we were delayed 10 minutes or so. After driving a few miles away, we saw a horrible accident...I always felt like God was in control and helped us avoid being involved in the accident.
Jackie Smith
jackie.smith[at]dishmail[dot]net
That has happened to me before, too, JACKIE! Thank the Lord for His protection.
DeleteYou definitely made me want to read this book! Thank you for sharing and for this opportunity.
ReplyDeleterhonda.ritenour@gmail.com
Rhonda (Ritty)
Marian is sawing logs in Holland, RHONDA, but I agree with you. She did a wonderful job on this review!
DeleteThank you RHONDA & DIANA!
DeleteRHONDA, please answer the question to be entered in the contest. Blessings!
I don't think I have...not yet anyway :)
ReplyDeleteNot a very long answer :( LOL!
But I had to enter! LOVE Karen's books! :)
Amada (pronounced: a.m.a.th.a)
amada_chavez{AT}yahoo{DOT}com
Hi, AMADA! If you're like me you always think of a good answer waaay later. lol Sometimes nothing comes to our minds at the time, but we still have you entered since you tried! ;)
DeleteIt still IS an answer, so you're entered!! :)
DeleteNo can't say I've ever been on way somewhere and God change my mind. but would love to win this book thanks.
ReplyDeleteABreading4fun [at] gmail [dot] com
Thanks for dropping by, APPLE BLOSSOM!
DeleteMarian,good review. I love the cover too, but always hate when they cut these pretty girl's heads off. I have Short Straw bride, and would love to win this one. Lots of competition tho. I didn't remember that you were a Preacher's wife, if I ever knew. Is an interesting title tho. Please put my name in. MAXIE mac262(at)me(dot)com
ReplyDeleteHey MAXIE, always so good to see you around here. When you come back, please answer the question to be entered in the contest. Blessings!
DeleteThe answer to your question is YES ,YES ,YES .It's always fun when your headed one way and God says "No " you need to turn here and go my way .Blessings,Dana "Girl"
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by, DANA! Blessings to you as well.
DeleteI am excited to read Witemeyer's latest! Sounds wonderful. Thanks for the opportunity to win a copy!
ReplyDeleteGWENDOLYN, good to see you drop by. Please answer the question to be entered in the contest. Hope to see you back!
DeleteOh yes. The direction I hoped for my son is not the same as God has for him. Still waiting to see what path He'll send him down which can be a little scary at times. But it's God's plan so I can trust in it. Thank you for the chance to win a copy of Karen's new book. I just loved Short Straw Bride. :) sahm211[at]hotmail[dot]com Jen C
ReplyDeleteYes, it's best to trust in God's plan, JEN. Blessings!
DeleteI love Karen's books - and her covers are wonderful!
ReplyDeleteI don't think I've interrupted a trip somewhere to go elsewhere....unless it counts to be heading to wring a kids head off and the Lord put a stop to it, turning my mouth over to Him and softening my words!
Would love to read this book!
missionwife@hotmail.com
I just remembered-years ago, early in our ministry we thought my husband was to go to seminary in Birmingham, AL (from Oklahoma). We put our little home up for sale - showed it to lots of folks who seemed to like it, but no offers were made. Meanwhile we were serving as the interim pastor in the Wilburton mountains when a pulpit committee showed up. We prayed about taking the church though we still thought we were to go to AL. The very day we said yes to going to the new church, our home sold. So I guess you could say we were headed one way and the Lord turned us the other direction!
DeleteBeautiful to see God at work, MELODY!
DeleteYou're entered - good luck!
Hey, Marian, just realized I didn't answer the question to be entered, so here's my answer:
ReplyDeleteYes, I was on my way to the ABA (secular market) when my agent told me I was too spiritual for the ABA, so she pitched me to the CBA instead, calling it a long shot (her actual words were "slim to nil" to get pubbed in the CBA), but she's a realllllly great agent, obviously, because SHE did it!! :)
Hugs,
Julie
Well, I'm glad your agent directed you to the CBA, JULIE!! Yay!
DeleteI was on my way to Africa after graduating school as a nurse... God kept putting road blocks in my way... Instead He kept me here in my hometown working as an emerg nurse serving my community :)
ReplyDeleteI cannot wait to read Karens new book! I love her writing!
Lisa
deiselbuffs@gmail.com
Hey LISA, your story is similar to ours. We wanted to go into missions in Greenland, but God needed us in our hometown.
DeleteGood luck in the drawing!!
Oh my, what a fantastic review, sure hope I win, cause you made me desire to read this one. The cover is cute and intriguing....another great invite to read this story.
ReplyDeleteYes,its a long story, 35 years ago we were deep into planning our permanent move to Oregon near my family. My husband had just retired from his military career and after traveling around the world all those years, I was especially looking forward to making up for lost time with my family. My husband was offered a job in the Dallas area that he couldn't turn down. My feelings were quite negative, and the Lord reminded me that my place was with my husband since he was the provider for our family. We are still in Texas and I'm convinced it's where the Lord intended us to be.
Thanks for this givaway and the chance to win a wonderful read.
In Christian Joy,
Barb Shelton
barbjan10 at tx dot rr dot com
Thanks for sharing, BARBARA! All the best in the drawing!
DeleteI was going to teach English as a Foreign Language in Russia, when God sent me to Denver instead for more schooling. Within that year I completed ESL certification, went to Africa, and got engaged - not quite what I had been expecting!
ReplyDeleteI have thoroughly enjoyed all of Karen Witemeyer's novels! I'm excited for this one!
That sounds quite exciting, RACHAEL. Hope you enjoy this book when you get to reading it.
DeleteGreat review!
ReplyDeleteOnce, on a field trip in D.C., my friend and I left the group tour because we saw a little shop selling flowers. We had a wonderful conversation with the little old man selling the flowers, and he even gave us each our own tulip for free! Wonderful experience that I think God sent to me
londonbridget47@aim.com
What a sweet story, BRIDGET! Good luck in the draw.
DeleteWhat a fabulous idea for a story.
ReplyDeleteWhen you travel with my Mother it's not called getting lost. No, it's taking the scenic route. We have had many adventures over the years.
That's great, MARY. Blessings!
DeleteWell Marian, sorry about answering the question. Tho't I had but only in my head I guess. :) The answer is no, not that I can recall
ReplyDeleteThere were several times that I probably went a different route, but never felt led to. Maxie
Hey MAXIE, I'm so glad you came back to answer the question. All the best in the contest. Bless you!
DeleteI haven't really had huge decisions to make in my life about where to go except for college. And I haven't gotten there yet so we'll see if that changes.
ReplyDeletemarissamehresman(at)aol(dot)com
Thanks for dropping by, MARISSA! Good luck in the drawing & with college. :)
DeleteI adore Karen's books! I have re-read To Win Her Heart and Short-Straw Bride several times :)
ReplyDeleteMy husband and I were focused on one career path, but he received a strong prompting to change direction, and go with his second choice, back-up plan. We followed, and less than a year later we adopted our daughter who we were connected to by a coworker in his new job. Such a blessing.
Thanks for the giveaway!!!
colorvibrant[at]gmail[dot]com
Wow, sounds like you are a big fan!
DeleteWhat a wonderful story how you adopted your daughter! Blessings!
I don't think so, but there may be times I wasn't aware of. I'm so excited to read this! shopgirl152nykiki(at)yahoo(dot)com
ReplyDeleteVERONICA, thanks for stopping by & good luck!
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