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Just a Little Update.

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As you've probably noticed, this blog's posts have dwindled and have consisted of only book reviews since Christmas. Not what I promised, was it? I'm here today to talk about some things that I've been contemplating—and putting off, if we're going for honesty—for awhile. Now it's official, though. The decision is made, I'm happy with it, and I'm here to make the announcement. Chosen Vessels is closing. Okay, so that sounds much worse/drastic than this is actually going to be, but the gist of it is true. Sometime in March, I'll cease to update this blog. It won't be disappearing entirely, but I won't be posting here anymore. As I strive to strengthen the content of my main blog and create a better online author presence, I've come to realize that it's too confusing—not to mention time-consuming—to keep up with two blogs. Instead, I'll be posting something encouraging and/or something God has been showing me 2-4 weekends

Sisters in Christ ~ Kassie A. ~ March 2019

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Happy Saturday, readers! As a special treat today, I bring to you a Sisters in Christ chat. This month's guest is Kassie from Soldier Girl Stories . Kick back and enjoy—this gal's a treat! Welcome to the blog, Kassie! Go ahead and introduce yourself. :D Well, I’m an almost-18-year-old homeschooled Army girl, the oldest sister of three younger brothers, and of course a writer! I have a tabby rescue cat and a therapy-dog-in-training. We’ve lived all over with the Army, but Texas is definitely home! So since you're fairly new to the blogging community... What inspired you to start a blog? My mom, really. As my book continued to make its way around and I started interacting a lot more with other indie authors, my mom thought a blog would be a good platform for me. Believe it or not, I actually feel really vulnerable whenever I share my writing, so I didn’t want to at first, but I eventually gave in and I’m so glad I did!! I'm glad you did too! ^_^ Did you

Bridgers: A Parable by Angie Thompson {Book Review}

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|| Description Three boys. One choice. No turning back. Peyton is a rising star in the church who is well on the way to reaching his biggest dreams. Levi is a pastor's son struggling to live up to his faith under pressure from all sides. DaVonte is a kid from the wrong side of town who would be content if he and his friends were just left alone. When an act of violence presents a sudden decision, each boy's answer will shake the community to its core and shape its future forever. Love and truth face off against fear and pride in this modern extension of one of Jesus' best-known parables. || Rating 4 stars || Review A spectacular retelling of the parable of the Good Samaritan—a story concept I never would've considered! Other than a short story awhile back (which I also enjoyed!), this was my first read by Angie Thompson and I dearly loved the tale. <3 My favorite character was undoubtedly DaVonte, followed by Brett. Levi was great too, but I had

Bound by Victoria Lynn {Book Review}

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Description Two souls don’t find each other by simple accident.  ~ Jorge Luis Borges Levi thought he was making this journey alone. But when he meets an eight-year-old girl at the train station, that plan is turned on its head. Casey is running away and finds out that Levi is too. They decide to journey together and their lives are suddenly bound together in a journey they will not soon forget. Both children come from abusive situations and are running from the dangers of their previous life. Levi is confident he can handle this on his own, but when Casey is injured on the journey, he must seek help from the first person that comes into his path, or rather people. Mr. and Mrs. Bellworth are simple farm folk with a heart for kids and a passion for serving God. When their unconditional love and gentle care surrounds Levi and Casey, the troubles of their previous lives melt away and they start to flourish. But when Casey is dragged back into the abusive world she came from, the

Made for the Journey by Elisabeth Elliot {Book Review}

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Description In her first year as a missionary to a small group of native women in the Ecuadorian jungle, Elisabeth Elliot faced physical and spiritual trials. In Made for the Journey , Elliot captures the mysteries and stark realities surrounding the colorful and primitive world in which she ministered. More than just a recounting of her early days, this is a beautifully crafted and deeply personal reflection on the important questions of life and a remarkable testimony to authentic Christian obedience to God. Rating 5 stars Review Although this is only my second Elisabeth Elliot book, I'm fairly certain I couldn't dislike something she has written. I chose Made for the Journey (formerly published under  These Strange Ashes ) from the review program because, even though memoirs are rarely my thing, I wanted to learn more of Elisabeth Elliot's life story. And I was not disappointed in the least. The author vulnerably opens up about the struggles and trials

The Christmas Candle by Max Lucado {Book Review}

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~ Description  Imagine a Victorian England village in the Cotswolds where very little out of the ordinary ever happens . . . except at Christmas time. This year, Edward Haddington, a lowly candle maker, is visited by a mysterious angel. That angel silently imparts a precious gift—a gift that’s bungled and subsequently lost. The candle maker and his wife, Bea, struggle to find the gift. And when they do, they have to make a difficult choice. Who among their community is most in need of a Christmas miracle? Join inspirational author Max Lucado and experience anew the joy of Christmas. ~ My Review  A dear story, full of charming settings, memorable characters (honestly, who doesn't love the Haddingtons?), and a theme that spells Christmas.  I read this book after watching the movie and—quite honestly—I liked the movie better. The book had it's own perks, though, giving a bit more background to some of the characters. Emily was a more likable gal in the mov

Savanna's Gift by Camille Eide {Book Review}

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~ Description Forced to return to the ski lodge where she once worked, Savanna Holt is reminded of one special Christmas and how ambition led her to make the worst mistake of her life: Leaving Luke Nelson. Stunned to discover Luke never left, but worked his way up from lift operator to manager, Savanna sees the opportunity as a gift from God. She’s determined to win Luke back. But Luke wants no reminders of his past hurt, or a relationship with the woman who put ambition before love. Can Savanna convince Luke she’s changed and her interest isn't because of his position? And when her dream job beckons, will she sacrifice her dream for a second chance at love? ~ My Review Well, gracious, that was cute. In a charmingly-written tale that reminded me of a Hallmark movie, this novella was sweet, touching, and heartfelt—all in under 100 pages. Luke, Savanna, Mylie, and the Freemans were all such fun characters, each realistically done. And the medical details and loads of