Leslea Wahl

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August News, Clues and Reviews!

Welcome to Leslea’s August edition of

News, Clues & Reviews!

Each bimonthly update provides news about my writing, faith-based book recommendations for the whole family, and an online game or puzzle to satisfy your inner detective.

Scroll down for all the details and book reviews.

August News:

Into the Spotlight Release!

Drum roll, please! Here’s a sneak peek at the cover for Into the Spotlight!

(Formerly An Unexpected Role)

Into the Spotlight is the first book in my new Finding Faith series.

The official re-release date is Oct. 24th!

New Cover for Unlikely Witnesses!

Another new cover! I’ve changed the cover of my novella, Unlikely Witnesses, to match the other covers in the short story series, all for One. If you’d like to be the first to spy the new look, CLICK HERE, to solve the puzzle.

The Perfect Blindside Anniversary!

It’s hard to believe, but The Perfect Blindside is turning 7 this month!

Answering God’s call to write that book started a whole new chapter in my life. I began my writing ministry, grown in my faith, and developed so many new, meaningful friendships. Starting next week, I’ll be featuring different fun facts about this book on my Leslea Wahl Facebook page and my MinistryThruMystery Instagram account.

Catholic Writers Guild Conference!

Last week I was able to attend the Catholic Writers Guild Conference. This event is always one of the highlights of my year. Catching up with friends, meeting new folks, and attending fantastic presentations always rejuvenates and inspires me.

If you’re an aspiring author and would like more info on the Guild, CLICK HERE.

Join me in Wichita!

In a few days, I’ll be heading to the Midwestern Catholic Family Conference in Wichita, KS. I’ll be representing Catholic Teen Books. Stop by if you’re planning on attending!

Reviews:

E is for Eucharist by Claudia McAdam

What a wonderful gift this book would make! This rhyming book is a fantastic way to teach parts of the Catholic faith to little ones. The amazing illustrations add so much to the beautiful book. I happen to be friends with both the talented author and amazing illustrator—both have helped me throughout my writing journey.

Molly McBride series by Jean Schoonover-Egolf

I adore the Molly McBride books. They are such wonderful stories to read with your children that also provide a fantastic tool to help teach Christian values. The author does a beautiful job of including important messages among the fun characters and lovely illustrations, adding another interesting layer to the stories.

The Haunted Cathedral by Antony Kolenc

This is the second book in Antony Kolenc’s Harwood Mysteries, and the reader once again joins Xan and Lucy on an exciting adventure. Xan has had so much to deal with in his young life due to the tragic loss of his family. In book one, Shadow in the Dark, he sets out to discover what happened to his parents. In this new story, he must come to terms with the past—not always an easy task.

While the new mystery is intriguing, what really made this story special is the continued storyline of Xan’s past and his character growth. The author superbly showed Xan’s emotional struggles as he deals with his new life. These books blend adventure, history, friendship, and faith into a marvelous series for middle-grade readers.

Miracle at the Mission by Joe Lewis

Looking for the perfect blend of relatable characters, fascinating history, intriguing mystery, and strong faith? Look no further than Miracle at the Mission. Author Joseph Lewis’ vivid descriptions of the California coast help sweep the reader away on an epic adventure.

High school friends Joe and Pete are honored with a trip to California. Their exciting trip leads to one they will never forget. This story is told from many different angles, creating a richly compelling story. I also enjoyed how the current historical elements make this story a time capsule of the unique era we are living in.

The Cloak of Light by Chuck Black

This was one of those books that I couldn’t put down. This speculative YA novel has so much going for it—adventure, action, faith, and a blossoming romance. While some of the beginning chapters felt a little drawn out, as the backstory was presented, I kept turning the pages, anxious to discover what would happen next.

Drew Carter has had a lot of tragic setbacks in his life. Thankfully, between his devoted mother, his protective mentor, and his steadfast best friend, he has been able to make it through those devasting challenges. But there is one thing he does not have in his life—faith. He fails to understand how others can cling to their unfounded beliefs—especially Sydney, the one girl he’s never been able to get out of his mind.

When Drew helps his friend Ben look into their college professor’s disappearance, his life is altered forever. He suddenly sees things that others do not—evil invaders that are threatening society. In order to save the world from these unseen enemies, Drew must somehow prove that he is not crazy.

I really adored the main character. His persevering spirit, kind heart, determination to fight for justice, and mad survival skills make him a hero you can’t help but root for. Beware, though, this is the first book in a series and, if you’re anything like me, you will immediately want to start the chapter of Drew’s story.

Speculative stories are always fascinating. Imagining the spirit world around us, the battles that circle around us, keeping us safe, is worth thinking about.

Black Bottle Man by Craig Russell

I’ve never read anything quite like this book. The writing was excellent, immediately drawing the reader into this unusual story. After his aunts make a deal with the devil, Rembrandt spends decades wandering, searching for a champion to defeat the evil one. Not surprising, given the premise, there are some disturbing elements to the story, so I’d recommend it for older, mature teens or adults. The secondary storyline was quite compelling. The moment I finished, I longed for some kind of discussion group where we could dissect this unique tale.

It’s Good to Be Here by Christiana Chase

I was excited to read this book and expected to find it inspirational, but I was completely blown away. What a treasure! Christina Chase’s It’s Good To Be Here is bursting with incredible insights, amazing personal stories, and beautiful nuggets of faith.

Author Christina Chase is a woman who suffers from a debilitating disease. Maybe because of her own struggles, she brings unique thoughts and perspectives to Bible passages. This inspiring book is not necessarily aimed at teens, but I would highly recommend it for young people. She has such a wonderful ability of explaining concepts and ideas in a new way. This woman’s incredible joy for life, despite the hardships she has endured, is truly inspiring. Witnessing her extraordinary faith through stories of her own life encourages readers to evaluate their lives in a new light. This book would be a phenomenal book to read as a family.

Until next time, happy reading!

 

 

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Virtual Book Tour – Miracle at the Mission by Joseph Lewis

Today, I’m taking part in a Virtual Book Tour for my friend, Joseph Lewis, and his new book, Miracle at the Mission.

I recently had the privilege of reading an advanced copy of this book. Because I enjoyed this faith-based story, I was more than happy to help spread the news about this teen novel. Joe Lewis’s vivid descriptions of the California coast will sweep you away on an epic adventure with the perfect blend of relatable characters, fascinating history, intriguing mystery, and strong faith. Scroll down for a book summary, a fun fact, purchase links, and story excerpt!

MIRACLE AT THE MISSION

 

BOOK SUMMARY

After recovering from their daring exploits in the exciting first book, The Ghosts of Westthorpe Academy, high school best friends Joe Pryce and Pete Figueroa return for another thrilling, action-adventure in Miracle at the Mission.

When one of them wins a St. Junipero Serra essay writing contest and is rewarded with a summer trip to California, they both embark on an adventure they will never forget. While visiting one of the historic Spanish missions founded by Father Serra, the boys meet a holy but mysterious old Franciscan monk who warns them of the dangers they would soon encounter.

It isn’t long before the boys are drawn into a series of events filled with suspense, intrigue, a high-speed car chase along the precipitous Pacific Coast Highway, and the schemes of foreign operatives seeking to bring harm to the President of the United States.

Caught up in the pursuit of the bad guys, the boys discover they have become suspects in the investigation by the FBI. Desperate to prove their innocence, they must rely on the guidance and wisdom of the old padre, who just happens to bear a strange resemblance to St. Junipero Serra himself.

With the world teetering on the brink of an international crisis, the story reaches its climax at another mission––Mission San Carlos Borromeo in Carmel––where the boys and a large gathering of people witness an incredible miracle that changes their lives forever.

 

Fun Facts About St. Junipero Serra & the California Missions

Part of the tradition of the Franciscan missionaries was to always walk whenever possible. After arriving in Mexico for his missionary work, Fray Junipero Serra’s left foot became severely infected (some suggest from a possible insect or spider bite). Though the injury tormented him for the rest of his life, he still insisted on walking whenever he could––including most of the way to California. (You will notice in the book how the old Franciscan padre favors his left leg).

 

BUY LINKS

Amazon.com: Miracle at the Mission: 9781649495662: Lewis, Joseph: Books

Miracle at the Mission – Kindle edition by Lewis, Joseph. Children Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.

Miracle at the Mission by Joseph Lewis, Paperback | Barnes & Noble® (barnesandnoble.com)

 

EXCERPT

The padre turned and looked at Joe. The hood of his habit had opened wider, revealing more of his face. In the dim light, his eyes looked dark, his complexion a somewhat lighter olive brown. His thinning gray hair was cut in the traditional tonsure style, something more common among religious orders in the past but not as much today. He wore a large crucifix that hung underneath his hood and rested over the top front of his habit.

As Joe prepared to leave, he suddenly stopped, though he wasn’t sure why. Something of what he had experienced earlier that day in the chapel seemed to compel him to want to listen to what the old padre had to say. Joe slid closer across the pew, stopping just a few feet from him in the pew.

“I am confident you will find your friend safe,” the priest said in a reassuring voice. “From what I gather, the three of you are here for an extraordinary week. So much of what is going on in the world today has found its way near to this very place. Important leaders will be meeting, and the eyes of the world will be watching. It is no coincidence that, at this time in history, they have come here, where so many peoples and cultures met not very long ago and welcomed the missionaries who brought the message of the Gospel. It was, and continues to be, a message of the love of neighbor, of joy and forgiveness, of thanksgiving for one another, and peace among all nations.”

Joe sat mesmerized. Though the padre referred to present-day events, his eloquent words and profound meaning made him seem like someone from another time, another world.

“But there are forces in the world that oppose these cherished things. Principalities who are enemies of God and of mankind, who choose the darkness; some who are visible and made of flesh and blood, others who are spirit and lurk in the shadows.” He paused as he looped the rosary beads he had been holding in his hand through the cincture around the waste of his habit. “My son, the world’s current dangers are real and require the courage and effort of a select few whose work can make the difference between conflict and resolution, division and harmony, hostility and goodwill for all peoples. The events of this week are crucial to determining the direction the world may be inclined to go. We must pray for God’s divine providence, that those who lead us may choose the path of peace. Look for the signs of God’s guiding hand in answer to those prayers. I also want to implore you and your friends to be vigilant this week, as you will be close to many of these things. The world can be a dangerous place, and sometimes people find themselves in circumstances they could hardly have anticipated.”

“I very much appreciate your concern, Father.” Joe politely accepted the padre’s advice, although he didn’t quite understand why he felt the need to offer it. But this wasn’t what Joe had come here searching for. He still didn’t know for certain if Pete was all right. Joe stood up. “I better get back and make sure my friend is okay.”

“Sí te entiendo.” The padre grabbed hold of the back of the pew and pulled himself up. As he did, he shifted as if to favor one leg. He had a thin frame and couldn’t have been more than an inch or two over five feet. His worn sandals looked as though they had traveled many miles.

“Please don’t get up on my account,” Joe said.

“I wish to extend to you my priestly blessing, my son.” With some effort, he shifted his legs again and moved a little closer to Joe. “I am extremely glad you and your friends can spend some time with us in this beautiful place. You know, the mission is in great need of support to help maintain it, not only to preserve the legacy of the missions but for the work they continue to do. This mission is an active parish and serves many people and families, some of whom are descendants of the native people who first lived here many years ago. Please keep the missions, and the people they serve, always in your prayers, won’t you?”

“I will, Father.” Joe turned to leave but turned back again. “I sure hope we have a chance to talk again. I’ve really enjoyed our conversation.”

“So have I, my friend, so have I. God willing, we will have a chance to meet again. In the meantime, go in peace.”

The padre raised his right hand and extended it toward Joe, who bowed his head. “Heavenly Father, I ask you to bless this fine young man and his companions in all their endeavors. May their work bear much fruit in the service of your kingdom. I ask that you protect them and keep them safe from harm in the name of Christ, Our Lord and Savior, Amen. May the blessing of Almighty God, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost descend upon you and remain with you forever. Amen. Amar a Dios, mi hijo. Love God, my son … and may He make a saint of you!”

“Thank you, Father.” Joe slid back across the pew, then genuflected before the tabernacle. He pivoted and glanced back at the old padre, but he wasn’t there!

Joe looked around the church. “Father?” There was no sign of him. Where could he have gone—and so quickly? … He seemed to mysteriously vanish into thin air.

 

 

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June News and Reviews

Welcome to my June Edition of News and Reviews!

Scroll down for all the details and reviews.

 

News:

Picture Book Update!

To Serve and Protect is now available. We’re having a lot of fun showing furry friends enjoying Siena’s new book. If you’d like to join the fun, send me a picture of your pooch and the book, and I’ll post it on FB and Instagram. Enjoy this short book trailer.

 

Podcast Appearance!

  

This week, I joined Author A.J. Cattapan on her podcast, Cath-lit Live, to share about To Serve and Protect. This fantastic podcast highlights newly released Catholic books in all genres. You can watch the short interview HERE!

 

Catholic Homeschool Conference!

This past weekend, I had a fantastic opportunity to sell books by Catholic Teen Books authors at the Kansas City Homeschooling Conference. If you know of any conferences or events that might be interested in CTB books, send me a message.

 

School Presentation!

In early May, I was able to do a zoom presentation with an 8th grade class in New Hampshire that read my novel, The Perfect Blindside. It was so fun to discuss the book with these students. Recommending books to teachers or librarians is a wonderful way to ensure great, faith-based books in your child’s school.

 

Reviews:

To Serve and Protect by Leslea Wahl

To Serve and Protect, my first picture book, is inspired by my dog’s quirky personality. Our sweet Goldendoodle, Siena, tries to be brave, but she tends to be scared of everything. However, this doesn’t stop her from trying her best to protect her family from all sorts of dangers – including snowmen and animals on television.

I’m so honored that my friend Karen Kelly Boyce has written a clever little story to help me promote this book. Karen’s story not only highlights my book but introduces folks to the quirky Sisters from her delightful chapter book series, Sisters of the Last Straw.

Enjoy her story! Thank you, Karen!!

Sisters of the Last Straw by Karen Kelly Boyce

Speaking of the Sisters of the Last Straw, this chapter book series is so much fun. This group of kind-hearted women long to be nuns but because they struggle with some bad habits, they have been unable to make their dreams come true. So, these spunky women join together to create their own order. The madcap adventures that these Sisters encounter are sure to delight the whole family. I’ve read several of the books and adore them. The stories are funny yet offer wonderful moments of grace amid teachable situations as the Sisters overcome the various obstacles they face.

 

Anything But Groovy by Amanda Lauer

I’ve been a fan of author Amanda Lauer for quite a while. Her captivating writing completely immersed me in the Civil War through her Heaven Intended series. In Anything But Groovy, Lauer brings her writing talents to a more contemporary story. She expertly captures the details of the 70s in this coming-of-age novel with an intriguing Freaky Friday type of storyline.

No matter what era we grow up in, there are certain issues that all teens must deal with—families, friendships, and bullying. While technology and circumstances change, relationship fundamentals remain the same. I thought this glimpse into a parent’s childhood was such a clever way to explore the walking-a-mile-in-another’s-shoes theme. This book might be a fun one for mothers and daughters to enjoy together while sharing the differences and similarities of their own childhoods.

Fun little side note – Amanda and I had a chance encounter a few weeks ago while we were both on vacation. It was so fun to catch up with her.

 

Beckoning by Claudia Cangilla McAdam

This story and the previous one in this series, Awakening, are fascinating glimpses into the time of Christ. McAdam creates modern-day characters who are mystically transported back to when Christ was crucified. The fascinating part of these stories is that these modern-day characters become actual people from the Bible – Mark, Tabitha (Dorcas), Veronica, Stephen, the Centurion guard. This twist not only puts a unique spin on these stories but gives the reader a whole new appreciation of the events by seeing the Passion story through the eyes of people who were actually there.

The main character in Beckoning is a teenage girl who is struggling with her faith after a tragedy in her family. A teacher suggests that she pray by imagining herself in a Bible story. She tries this approach while at the Adoration Chapel and experiences a life-altering moment.

The historical elements of the story were also fascinating—such as how hard life was back then, Jewish traditions, and the difficulties the early Christians faced. I think both Awakening and Beckoning would be fantastic books to assist with school lessons since there is so much to discuss. These novels are a powerful way for teens to delve into the Crucifixion, Resurrection, Pentecost, and the early days of the church.

 

Peregrine by Erica Richardson

While the book may be short, this powerful story will stay with me for a very long time. The author’s beautiful writing brought to life two fabulous main characters, Miles and Trisha. While my heart ached for Miles and his tremendous burden, Trisha’s inspiring kindness shone through the pages. Kudos to Erica Richardson for creating an engaging novella that brings awareness, garners empathy, and highlights a difficult topic—mental illness. Will fear of the unknown keep this couple apart, or do they have the courage to take a chance on one another? I highly recommend picking up this story to find out.

 

The Stranger in the Lifeboat by Mitch Albom

The Stranger in the Lifeboat is the newest book by acclaimed author Mitch Albom. You may be familiar with some of his other books – Tuesdays with Morrie and The Five People You Meet in Heaven. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the many moral and philosophical questions that arose.

What would happen if we called on God for help and God actually appeared? In Mitch Albom’s profound new novel of hope and faith, a group of shipwrecked passengers pull a strange man from the sea. He claims to be “the Lord.” And He says He can only save them if they all believe in Him.

Once a year, my book club invites the husbands to join us for a fun couples book club evening. Not only do we discuss a book, but we also play games and dress as characters from the book.

It’s always a fun evening full of laughs. This year though, we ended up having some really deep discussions that arose from this particular book. Everyone loved the book, and, interestingly, each person perceived the true story in a slightly different way.

 

Barking at the Choir by Fr Greg Boyle

This book is sort of a memoir by Father Gregory Boyle, who runs Homeboy Industries, the largest gang-rehabilitation program in the country. Each chapter has a central theme supported by snippets from his experiences with the “homies.” These interesting, funny, heart-breaking, and heart-warming stories support the overall message of how important it is to care for people, even people who are different than us. Father Boyle’s words are, at times, a little shocking, but there is no denying that he has a deep connection with those he serves.

There were several points that really stuck with me, one being that gang members do not choose this lifestyle. They are fleeing from something else – abusive families, homelessness, parents who are addicts, etc. They may have done horrible things in their lives, but they are still children of God. These gang members have survived horrible backgrounds, and Homeboy Industries is a lifeline and family for them.

Father Boyle travels a lot, speaking around the country about his incredible organization. He often takes some of the homies with him on these trips. The reformed gang members he chooses are exposed to a new world, some traveling for the first time in their lives. Then they have the opportunity to speak to counselors, clergy, law enforcement, and medical personnel. By sharing their backgrounds and personal stories, they humanize the gang member that these professionals deal with on a daily basis. These interactions have a profound impact on all involved.

This is a fantastic, eye-opening book that could be read with your teens. Even if you will never interact with gang members, it’s a great reminder that we should care about everyone.

 

Until next time, happy reading!

 

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April News and Reviews

Welcome to my new newsletter format!

For various reasons, I’ve decided to change things a bit, and instead of sending out a monthly review post and a quarterly update, I’m combining them into an every other month News & Reviews post. Also, besides reviewing faith-based books for teens, I will start including a few recommendations for children and adults. After all, we all can strengthen our faith through fiction.

Hopefully, this new format will make it easier to find what items interest you.

     

Scroll down for all the news and reviews.

NEWS!

Picture Book Release!

My first picture book, To Serve and Protect, is on the verge of releasing. It was so much fun working on this project with my talented friend, Amy Klein, to bring a story inspired by my dog, Siena, to life.

New Short Story!

April brings the release of the 2nd short story in my all for One series. More Precious Than Gold features my four main characters helping others at a summer camp. This story was first published in the CatholicTeenBooks anthology – Secrets: Visible and Invisible.

School Presentation!

I had a wonderful time presenting via zoom to the 7th graders at St. Joseph Catholic School in Fayetteville, Arkansas. This was the first zoom presentation I had done, but I enjoyed it immensely and hope more will come my way.

CTB blog article!

I recently wrote an article for the CatholicTeenBooks blog. It was all about all the features we offer over at CatholicTeenBooks.com. Please share this LINK if you know some families who may be interested.

Online Puzzle!

Do any of you love puzzles as much as I do? Here’s an easy online puzzle featuring one of the illustrations from To Serve and Protect. CLICK HERE

 

REVIEWS!

A New Auntie’s Fear by Angela Lano

What a beautiful story! This heartfelt letter written to a new baby from an aunt with special needs is the most touching story I’ve read in a very long time. This simple picture book offers families the perfect way to teach children compassion and acceptance of people’s disabilities.

 Armor of God series by Theresa Linden

I really adore this series by Theresa Linden. Each book is packed with powerful lessons, an intriguing storyline, and realistic character growth. Based on the Scriptural Armor of God (Ephesians 6:13-17), the six-book ARMOR OF GOD series appeals to the universal and timeless quest for virtue and inner strength. The story themes and “Brother Coll’s Catechism Lessons” that Linden weaves into each story are perfect for children preparing for their Sacraments. While it’s ideal for children making their First Communion and Reconciliation, these books are a treasure for the whole family.

The Treasure with a Face by Janeen Zaio

Speaking of treasure, The Treasure with a Face is a fun, middle-grade story with a fantastic main character. From the very first page, I knew Eli was someone I would enjoy going on an adventure with, and that is exactly what I did. Living in the middle east during the time of Jesus was not an easy time to be alive. Especially if you are a boy who longs to hunt for treasure but is stuck living and working for a difficult uncle. When Eli finally gets the chance for adventure, it is not at all what he expected. As he journeys to Jerusalem by order of his uncle, he hopes for a chance to meet Jesus. While the adventures he encounters along the way give him a taste of a life he longs for, he really hopes that Jesus will be able to give him the needed clue to find the treasure that the Jewish people have been searching for. But when he discovers that he’s too late and that Jesus has been killed, will all be lost, or will he discover that the greatest treasure is something that he never could have imagined?

The Secret of Glaston Tor by Donal Anthony Foley

I wasn’t sure what to expect from The Secret of Glaston Tor but thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it. This time-travel story has many aspects that kept me turning the pages—a thrilling adventure, fantastic characters, an intriguing premise, and a wonderful message.

Matt is excited to travel to England to spend Christmas with his cousins. However, as soon as he lands in England, his trip is plagued with odd incidents. Thankfully, his cousins Annie and Luke take him to see the ruins of Glaston Tor, a tourist site he’s been anxious to explore. But, if he thought his day was strange before his tour, things get downright bizarre. A strange light at the historical ruins leads them through a portal where a mysterious man offers them the adventure of a lifetime.

Unable to resist the opportunity to make a difference, the three cousins find themselves in France during World War II. Thus starts the epic journey of being chased by the Nazi Gestapo, fleeing across France, assisting a daring escape, uncovering family secrets, and discovering what is truly important.

This thrilling adventure not only explores a piece of history in a unique way but delves into some fascinating questions of faith. This is the first novel in a series for teens of all ages.

A Reluctant Assassin by J.C. Morrows

This YA book is basically a retelling of the Cinderella story—with a big twist—the rags to riches young lady at the ball is actually an assassin on a mission to kill the Prince. That description and the eye-catching cover drew me right in. I enjoyed the book quite a bit—the characters were likable the storyline was intriguing, although it wasn’t exactly what I was expecting. The book is less of an action-packed suspense novel and more of a romantic adventure.

I really enjoyed how the story progressed through the points of view of both the male and female lead characters. This is always a nice way to get to know both characters.  However, there were a few times when it made this story feel a little disjointed, like I’d missed something. Also, I would’ve liked a more details about Kayden’s background—but that may be revealed in the next book. There is also a short prequel that may answer some of my questions.

The series, Order of the Moonstone, is comprised of numerous books, which is good news because if you’re anything like me—you’ll want to keep reading since A Reluctant Assassin ends not only with a twist but also on a bit of a cliffhanger.

Under a Watchful Sky by Roger Thomas

Here’s a recommendation for the adults of the family. I’ve read a few books by Roget Thomas, and this one is another fantastic story! I felt like the beginning dragged just a bit, but when the story really got going—I was hooked. This Christian dystopian story, set in the not-too-distant future, felt a little too real. The craziness of our world seems to mirror this book, which is terrifying but makes for a real page-turner. Excellent job!

No Turning Back by Fr Don Galloway

I’ve had the privilege of hearing Fr. Galloway speak twice. He is an engaging and inspirational speaker, which made me curious about his personal journey to the priesthood. But I was completely unprepared for this astonishing true story. His completely unexpected and total transformation is incredible. His background is reminiscent of Saint Augustine—a wild youth whose mother never gave up on him, continually praying that God would transform his life. And boy, did God answer that prayer!

I read this book thinking it would be a great recommendation for teens, but for a few reasons, I’ve changed my mind and instead am recommending it for adults. Fr. Galloway is very honest in this book and doesn’t hold anything back about his unscrupulous past. I think this has its benefits, showing people that no matter what things you have done in your past, you can change your life around. However, being so open makes me a little hesitant to recommend it to all teens. This is an amazing story, perfect for parents who worry about their children. What an amazing reminder that God never gives up on us. He can reach even lost souls and answer our prayers.

Until next time, God bless, and happy reading!

 

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Monthly Book Review – Faithful Servants

Monthly Book Reviews – Faithful Servants

This month I’m reviewing books about three individuals who are considered Saints by the Catholic Church or are on their way to sainthood. What better way to kickstart Lent than with some inspiring storis about faithful servants of God.

Before we begin…

In case you are new to my blog, besides writing YA novels, I love reviewing them as well. Every month I post about 3 YA books that I’ve read each month in a new genre. I also send out quarterly posts marked UPDATES regarding news about my own work.

But for those of you who have kids, or grandkids, or you yourself like teen books (like me!), each month, I’ll introduce some of my favorite Christian and Catholic YA books.

I’ve decided to provide more reviews because there are a few things I’ve learned since I had my first book published:

1 – So many of the teen books published by the big publishing companies contain messages that don’t match the values of many families.

2 – There are a lot of fantastic, clean, faith-based books out there – books that are entertaining yet wholesome and reflect Christian values.

3 – These types of books can be difficult to find. So, I’d like to introduce you to a few new adventures.

 

Lucia of Fatima by Kathryn Griffin Swegart

What an amazing story. I’ve enjoyed all of the books in Kathryn Griffin Swegart’s Brave Hearts series, but this one is my favorite. These books about faithful servants of God are truly inspirational. I was familiar with Lucia and the incredible miracle that occurred at Fatima, but this book provided more details than I’d ever known before. Based on Lucia’s memoirs, this story offers more insight into the Fatima events, as well as Lucia’s life after the miracle. While this book is written as a middle-grade novel, I would recommend it for anyone interested in this incredible real-life story.

Through the beautiful writing, the reader feels like they know and understand Lucia. From the struggles she dealt with at home, to the sweet relationship she had with her cousins, and her unwavering devotion to her faith, Lucia was an inspiring woman. Thank you, Kathryn Griffin Swegart, for sharing this edifying story.

 

Child, Unwanted: Friends in High Places by Corinna Turner

This is the third story in Corinna Turner’s Friends in High Places series. This series of short stories introduces saints to readers through fictional tales about modern teens. Child Unwanted focuses on the life of Blessed Margaret of Castello. I had never heard of this faithful servant and her incredible life of hardship. The joy and faith that defined Margaret, despite the many difficult trials she endured, is truly inspiring.

Child Unwanted is all about not giving up and using your situation, no matter how painful, to pray for and bless others. This act of giving your pain up for others is a difficult concept to understand. This story about a boy name Miri, does an excellent job of explaining the process. I appreciated the pro-life aspect of the story as well as the cameo appearance of Daniel, a character found in each of the Friends in High Places books.

 

Saint Ignatius of Loyola: For the Greater Glory of God by Donna Giaimo, FSP and Patricia Jablonski, FSP

Having two children attend Jesuit high schools and colleges, I have long been curious about the founder of the Jesuits, Saint Ignatius of Loyola. In every classroom, the Jesuit phrase “Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam” was proudly displayed, and the AMDG symbol even graced their tennis and baseball uniforms. While I struggled at first to remember what the beautiful Latin words meant, I fully appreciated that my teens were constantly reminded to live their lives “For the Greater Glory of God.” This Jesuit principle that our actions give glory to God, is the foundation of the Jesuit’s incredible contribution over the centuries to education and missionary work around the world.

This book by Pauline Books and Media is relatively short but offers a wonderful depiction of this holy man’s life. Inigo, who grew up in the early 1500s, came from a well-off family. As a boy, he longed for a life of adventure, defending his beloved country of Spain as a soldier. However, a serious battle injury changed this young man’s life forever. During his long recovery, he was stuck with nothing to do but read. The only two books available to him were a book about the life of Christ and one about the lives of the saints. These books led him on an unusual journey of faith to change his name, give up his worldly possessions, and eventually become a priest who founded the Society of Jesus, also known as the Jesuits. I thoroughly enjoyed this introduction to the life of an incredible saint.

 

All these books can be found on Amazon. I’ve set links – just click on the highlighted titles. For those who don’t use Amazon you can also check Barnes and Noble online or www.indiebound.org where you can search for books and the local bookstores that might carry them or order them directly from the website. You can also ask your local bookstore or library to order the books for you.

Next month I’ll be reviewing three more Christian/Catholic teen novels. But if you’d like more reviews before then you can always check out my recommendation section on my website: YA Recommendations.

If you’ve come across this post on Facebook and would like to get my monthly reviews sent directly to your inbox, you can sign up on my website – www.LesleaWahl.com.

Until next month – Happy Reading!

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New Release and Sales!

Just a quick update to share some news!

NEW RELEASE!

I have recently released Episode 1 in my short story collection—all for One.

One Blessing at a Time is a sneak peek into the lives of four characters from my award-winning YA mysteries, The Perfect Blindside and Into the Spotlight (formerly An Unexpected Role) before we meet them in their full-length novels. This story has previously been offered as a free story for new subscribers to my website and is now available for purchase as well.

This intriguing short story about a mysterious sacred object offers a glimpse into the backgrounds of snowboarder Jake, aspiring journalist Sophie, baseball player Ryan, and theater enthusiast Josie, offering new details from their pasts.

Ever wonder about the event that catapulted Jake to the national spotlight? Did Sophie always have a knack for uncovering the truth? What circumstances provided Ryan with the opportunity to play ball for an East Coast scout team? How successful was Josie as she tried to go unnoticed during her first years of high school?

This illuminating short story prequel explores the idea that you never know whose life you may touch with a simple blessing.

 

Sales!

In honor of the Olympics, I’m offering a 20% sale of The Perfect Blindside. The sale is exclusively available at CatholicTeenBooks.com.

To celebrate Valentine’s Day, select romance books are on sale at CatholicTeenBooks.com, including my novel, An Unexpected Role. For a 20% discount, use the code VALENTINE.

And finally, Target.com is offering a deal on books – buy two books, and get one free! My books, The Perfect Blindside, and eXtreme Blindside are available online for this great sale.

Thanks for all your continued support. Happy Reading!

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Monthly Book Review – Romances for Older Teens

February—the month of hearts, love, and Valentine’s Day—is the perfect time to highlight some fabulous Romances. While teen romances can bring up some sensitive topics, I think it’s beneficial to have choices available that deal with these real issues from a Christian perspective. Amid the themes of dating, chastity, and love, these three stories add intrigue, mystery, and historical elements. So, if you know an older teen who enjoys a good romance, you might want to check out these faith-based books.

Before we begin…

In case you are new to my blog, besides writing YA novels, I love reviewing them as well. Every month I post about 3 YA books that I’ve read each month in a new genre. I also send out quarterly posts marked UPDATES regarding news about my own work.

But for those of you who have kids, or grandkids, or you yourself like teen books (like me!), each month, I’ll introduce some of my favorite Christian and Catholic YA books.

I’ve decided to provide more reviews because there are a few things I’ve learned since I had my first book published:

1 – So many of the teen books published by the big publishing companies contain messages that don’t match the values of many families.

2 – There are a lot of fantastic, clean, faith-based books out there – books that are entertaining yet wholesome and reflect Christian values.

3 – These types of books can be difficult to find. So, I’d like to introduce you to a few new adventures.

 

One Night with a Rock Star by Chana Keefer

I’d heard many good things about this book, so I was anxious to start reading it. Although, to be honest, I had some mixed feelings about this one. Strangely, I went from adoring it to being completely frustrated, from thinking a scene was totally unrealistic to rereading sections multiple times because I loved the way they made me feel. But, such strong feelings means it drew me in!

This story is about Esther, a college student who has a chance encounter with her favorite rock star. That one night changes her forever. As readers, we travel with Esther for the remaining two years of college as she struggles with her emotions and thoughts of the future, unable to get that evening out of her heart and mind.

The story begins with modern-day Esther, now an adult, retelling the story. While the bulk of the book is set in the late 1980s, it doesn’t feel dated and is very relevant to modern teens. The middle felt a little slow, and some parts seemed unnecessary, but because it has the feel of a memoir, those sections may be important for the character arc.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It is filled with touching moments, romance, heartache, humor, and self-discovery. I especially liked the message that by living out our faith in an authentic way, we can truly affect and influence another person. Our actions and words can completely change someone, ultimately leading them to Christ.

 

The Truth About Romantic Comedies by Sean C. McMurray

Tim’s life is falling apart. His grandmother is sick, his single mom is overworked, and his girlfriend just broke his heart—over text. But when he meets the quirky Rachel, things begin to look up. Ready to find something to keep his mind off his problems, he’s happy to help Rachel on her mission to test romantic comedy cliches. But, just as things start to get interesting with this new relationship, Rachel reveals some bad news. Despite this new complication and her faith that he doesn’t quite understand, Tim remains determined to get to know this intriguing girl.

This book was a surprise. There were so many things that I enjoyed. The poignant moments amid the light-hearted story. The witty dialog. The faith aspects. And the interesting main characters—especially Tim, who was such a solid guy, despite some tough blows in his young life. The relationship between Tim and his grandmother was especially sweet.

The middle dragged just a bit, but the storyline kept me turning the pages. Overall, this book has a lot more depth than I first assumed. There were some really powerful messages about teen relationships, family bonds, and forgiveness. The truth about this romantic comedy is that it was very enjoyable.

 

Rightfully Ours by Carolyn Astfalk


Rightfully Ours is a novel for older teens about the importance and beauty of chastity. I’ve read a few books by Carolyn Astfalk and thoroughly enjoy her writing style. She is an accomplished Catholic romance writer and has brought her skills to the YA market with Rightfully Ours. This book is full of relatable characters, touching family traumas, and a beautiful love story.

This coming-of-age story about two teens, Paul and Rachel, is set around a family tragedy and an intriguing treasure hunt. Rachel’s parents are quite strict, especially when it comes to the boy she likes, Paul. The fact that Paul has come to live with Rachel’s family for the summer definitely complicates things. The story does a wonderful job of portraying a genuine relationship and all the accompanying feelings and emotions.

Through an engaging story, this book tackles an important topic that teens face in our society—purity and the handling of temptations. While the subject matter might not be right for everyone, I appreciate that the author isn’t afraid to discuss the issue in a very real way by showing modern, Christian teens struggling to make the right decisions.

 

All these books can be found on Amazon. I’ve set links – just click on the highlighted titles. For those who don’t use Amazon you can also check Barnes and Noble online or www.indiebound.org where you can search for books and the local bookstores that might carry them or order them directly from the website. You can also ask your local bookstore or library to order the books for you.

Next month I’ll be reviewing three more Christian/Catholic teen novels. But if you’d like more reviews before then you can always check out my recommendation section on my website: YA Recommendations.

If you’ve come across this post on Facebook and would like to get my monthly reviews sent directly to your inbox, you can sign up on my website – www.LesleaWahl.com.

Until next month – Happy Reading!

 

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Monthly Book Review – SciFi Adventures

This month I’m reviewing three Science Fiction novels. Two are set in space, one is a more modern story. I chose one for older teens, one fairy-tale retelling, and one short story. While these Catholic tales have their differences, they share one common thread—all are fabulous stories with intriguing moral dilemmas.

Before we begin…

In case you are new to my blog, besides writing YA novels, I love reviewing them as well. Every month I post about 3 YA books that I’ve read each month in a new genre. I also send out quarterly posts marked UPDATES regarding news about my own work.

But for those of you who have kids, or grandkids, or you yourself like teen books (like me!), each month, I’ll introduce some of my favorite Christian and Catholic YA books.

I’ve decided to provide more reviews because there are a few things I’ve learned since I had my first book published:

1 – So many of the teen books published by the big publishing companies contain messages that don’t match the values of many families.

2 – There are a lot of fantastic, clean, faith-based books out there – books that are entertaining yet wholesome and reflect Christian values.

3 – These types of books can be difficult to find. So, I’d like to introduce you to a few new adventures.

 

Heaven’s Hunter by Marie Keiser

I haven’t read many Christian sci-fi stories, so I was excited to check this one out. And I’m so glad I did. Detective Randall Yung of the Galactic Fleet only wants to serve his government and keep the galaxy safe, despite the fact that his wealthy, powerful family does not view his career choices as worthy. However, when his newest assignment makes him question everything he’s ever been told, his world is turned inside out. Could the government really have been changing history and keeping the facts from their citizens? Could it be possible that the dangerous rebellion initiated by Catholic groups is something other than what he’d been taught?

As Randall delves into the past to answer lingering questions, the truths he discovers will put him into even greater danger, threatening his reputation, his job, and even his life. I enjoyed the main character, although I would have loved to get into his head a little more. While I appreciate his stoic and regimented personality, I would’ve loved to see more of his personal angst and turmoil. The book’s message of standing up for what is right is a message for our times. It can be much easier to just go along with the status quo. Thank goodness for those who remain steadfast in discovering and defending honor and truth. May more of us strive to be like Randall Yung. Great debut novel.

 

Moonboy by Karina Fabian

Moonboy is a very short story and part of the author’s Rescue Sisters series. Several years ago, I read, and thoroughly enjoyed, one other book in this series about a group of nuns who travel around the universe helping people. If you like fantasy and science fiction novels, this author is one to check out. The unique worlds she creates are not only fascinating but also entertaining. While most of her novels have adult characters, older teens would find them engaging as well. Since I normally review teen novels, I was excited to discover this short story about a teen boy. Cory Taylor, however, is no ordinary teen. Cory was born on the moon and, due to the differences in atmosphere, is unable to safely leave the moon. But all he wants is to experience a grand adventure, like that of his favorite fictional character.

However, when he concocts a plan to do just that, things go awry, and he finds himself stuck on an isolated part of the moon with several nuns and a priest. While not what he had hoped for, his botched escape gives him the adventure of a lifetime. This short story brings up some interesting topics that could lead to some fantastic discussions about science, technology, and faith. I really enjoyed this character and hope there might be a full-length book featuring him one day.

 

Alex O’Donnell and the 40 Cyber Thieves by Regina Doman

If you like your science fiction a little more realistic and modern, then this next choice might be for you. Alex O’Donnell and the 40 Cyber Thieves is part of Regina Doman’s Fairy Tale Novels series of books—each a modern retelling of a classic fairy tale.

Fans of Regina’s novels will be happy to know that Alex O’Donnell and his girlfriend Kateri are returning characters from one of the books in this series. I’d only read one other book by this author, so was unfamiliar with these characters, but really enjoyed them—especially Alex. There was just something about Alex and his family that was quite endearing, so I was a bit frustrated when Kateri didn’t seem to appreciate her boyfriend and his family as much as I did.

When an unexpected event creates a dramatic life change for college student Alex and his family, they begin a new exciting adventure. After graduating, Alex’s girlfriend, Kateri, is unsure about her future and relationship. But the family’s unique circumstances create an opportunity for her that she can’t pass up. Is this new venture the perfect way to draw the family closer together, or is it all too good to be true?

This book is full of intrigue with some wonderful elements of faith and action. I enjoyed the topics this book addressed about our society’s obsession with video games and technology. The cyber aspects were equally fascinating and frightening.

 

 

All these books can be found on Amazon. I’ve set links – just click on the highlighted titles. For those who don’t use Amazon you can also check Barnes and Noble online or www.indiebound.org where you can search for books and the local bookstores that might carry them or order them directly from the website. You can also ask your local bookstore or library to order the books for you.

Next month I’ll be reviewing three more Christian/Catholic teen novels. But if you’d like more reviews before then you can always check out my recommendation section on my website: YA Recommendations.

If you’ve come across this post on Facebook and would like to get my monthly reviews sent directly to your inbox, you can sign up on my website – www.LesleaWahl.com.

Until next month – Happy Reading!

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Quarterly Update – December 2021

Welcome! Thanks for your interest in my books and ministry. It’s been a while since I posted an update, so I have a few things to share.

 

Searching for a Christmas Gift?

Looking for a fun personalized gift? Check out my Books and Bling Gift Packs.

 

To get you in the holiday mood:

The Christmas Lights

This collective story that I collaborated on with several other CatholicTeenBooks authors, is now available as an ebook. Last Christmas, a friend approached our group about writing a story that would be read on his podcast, Jedlie’s Reading with Your Kids Podcast, on Christmas Eve. Jed gave us a prompt, and one by one each of us wrote a section as the story was passed from author to author. Only the final contributor knew the entire story until we read it for the podcast. We enjoyed the project and wanted to share this fun, short story with others. All proceeds from this e-book will be donated to Cross Catholic Outreach.

And, we were asked to participate again this year. So, if you’re interested, listen to Jed’s podcast on Christmas Eve for our next collective story. LINK

 

Christmas Angel

This is my story that appeared in the Gifts: Visible and Invisible anthology. Join Meg’s unforgettable Advent journey when four simple words challenge her idea of a perfect Christmas. This short story was inspired by a true event that a friend once shared with me. I thought it was the perfect backdrop to this story about helping others.

 

2021 In-person Events

I was so excited to begin traveling to events once again during the last few months.

In August, I participated in several panel discussions at the annual Catholic Writers Guild conference in Chicago.

Also in August, I represented CatholicTeenBooks at the Midwest Catholic Family Conference in Wichita.

And, just a few days ago, I was in Dallas spreading the news about CatholicTeenBooks at the St. Nicholas Show.

I’m hoping to attend more events in the new year. If you know of some great family or homeschooling events, please send me a message!

 

What to watch for in 2022:

Over the last many months, I’ve been working hard behind the scenes on a few projects. I finally have a few things to announce for the new year.

An Unexpected Role

I have some exciting news about this fun story about theater enthusiast Josie -who is probably my favorite character to write about. Josie’s story will soon be receiving a new name and cover art! I’m thrilled that this adventurous tale will be joining Where You Lead at Vinspire Publishing House.

The new title will be Into the Spotlight, and it will be the first in the Finding Faith series. The second book, featuring Josie’s friend Liz, is already well underway. I did make a few changes to Josie’s adventure but, overall, it is the same great story.

 

all for One Short Story Collection

Some of you may have read a few of my short stories which combined the main characters from The Perfect Blindside and An Unexpected Role. After the new year, I will begin rolling out these four stories with new cover art under the series title, all for One.

 

To Serve and Protect

Also, in the next few months, keep an eye out for my first picture book! I’ve joined forces with Perpetual Light Publishing and my very talented friend, Amy Klein, to create a fun children’s story about one of our family pets.

 

A Summer to Treasure

I’ve been mentioning this adventurous sibling adventure for a year now. I love this story and can’t wait to share it with readers, but sometimes the publishing process is slow-moving. I’m not sure what God has in store for this book, but hopefully, it will find its publishing home soon, in the meantime, I’m learning some lessons in humility and patience.

 

CatholicTeenBooks Updates

I wanted to share some exciting new programs we are offering over at CatholicTeenBooks.

First is our Perfect Match Quiz. Take a few moments to fill out several questions about what types of books you prefer, and we’ll offer some great suggestions.

Our blog now features new articles twice a month. These articles written by our talented authors are topics geared toward teens and parents.

We have recently added our own bookstore! All our books can be purchased right on our site!

We also have created a beautiful new catalog with all the ordering information, it’s the perfect tool to share with schools or bookstores. The digital version is on the website, but we are happy to send a physical copy out as well.

 

That is all for this update!

Thank you all for your continued support. I wish you all a very merry and blessed Christmas!

Leslea

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Monthly Book Reviews – Christmas Stories

Monthly Book Reviews – Christmas Stories

Each Christmas, I enjoy reviewing books for kids of all ages. I have such fond memories of reading Christmas stories to my children, so finding new treasures to share with others is always a joy. This month I’m highlighting one young adult novel, three short stories for teens, a middle-grade adventure, and three picture books.

Before we begin…

In case you are new to my blog, besides writing YA novels, I love reviewing them as well. Every month I post about 3 YA books that I’ve read each month in a new genre. I also send out quarterly posts marked UPDATES regarding news about my own work.

But for those of you who have kids, or grandkids, or you yourself like teen books (like me!), each month, I’ll introduce some of my favorite Christian and Catholic YA books.

I’ve decided to provide more reviews because there are a few things I’ve learned since I had my first book published:

1 – So many of the teen books published by the big publishing companies contain messages that don’t match the values of many families.

2 – There are a lot of fantastic, clean, faith-based books out there – books that are entertaining yet wholesome and reflect Christian values.

3 – These types of books can be difficult to find. So, I’d like to introduce you to a few new adventures.

 

Mary’s Son by Darryl Nyznyk

Mary’s Son is a fantasy tale for teens that combines Jesus and Santa. That may sound odd, but it is a sweet story with a beautiful message. This Christmas tale has the old-fashioned feel of Miracle on 34th Street – one of my favorite holiday movies – maybe that is why I enjoyed this book so much.

The story revolves around an elderly gentleman, Nicholas, who, with powers given to him by God, is able to show two teens from opposite sides of town the real meaning of Christmas. Spoiled and self-centered Sarah is the only child of the wealthiest widower in town. Angry and defensive Jared is the oldest child of a poor family who is still reeling from the abandonment of their father.

Both teens are heading down a destructive path until Nicholas arrives and takes them on a magical journey – one they will never forget. Their adventure will not only reveal what Christmas is truly about but will ultimately change their lives forever.

 

A Perfect Christmas by Carolyn Astfalk

This Christmas short story first appeared in the CatholicTeenBooks anthology, Gifts: Visible and Invisible. No tree, no cookies, no gifts. Not a single flake of snow. With sick siblings, Dad stranded, and Mom overwhelmed, will Christmas come at all to Marigold’s topsy-turvy home? This is a sweet story about finding joy amidst the chaos.

 

The Christmas Angel by Leslea Wahl

This is my story that appeared in the Gifts: Visible and Invisible anthology. Join Meg’s unforgettable Advent journey when four simple words challenge her idea of a perfect Christmas. This short story was inspired by a true event that a friend once shared with me. I thought it was the perfect backdrop to this story about helping others.

 

The Christmas Lights by CatholicTeenBooks

Last year, six Catholic Teen Books authors and I read wrote “The Christmas Lights” for the Reading With Your Kids podcast. We each wrote a section as the story passed from one author to the next. Only the last author, A.J. Cattapan, knew the ending until we read it for the episode. We had such a fun time with the project that we decided to make it available as an e-book this Christmas for only 99 cents. All proceeds will go to Cross Catholic Outreach to help the poorest of the poor around the world.

When a blizzard puts Camilla and her family in jeopardy, she must brave the snowstorm to get help. Lost and alone, all she can do is search for Christmas lights, which is either a direction from her dead grandma or a delusion. Help does come, in completely unexpected ways.

 

Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker by Andrew Votipka

This is the second book I’ve read in The Mr. Baker’s Book Series. These books, written for older elementary or middle school students, are fun adventures that introduce readers to saints. Mr. Baker’s catechism lessons are literally brought to life with a special time-traveling book. In this newest story, one of Mr. Baker’s students, Theo, is whisked away to discover more about the real St. Nicholas.

While the stories are light-hearted and are far from an in-depth biography, they offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives of some faithful servants of God. The books include some factual tidbits, along with plenty of humor around modern-day kids traveling back to ancient times. These books offer a great introduction to some interesting saints through thoroughly entertaining stories.

 

Kristoph and the First Christmas Tree by Claudia Cangilla McAdam

St. Boniface’s fascinating tale is brought to life through this delightful picture book as Kristoph, a young orphan, and the missionary priest venture out one Christmas Eve. St. Boniface’s imagery of the evergreen—it’s perpetual green branches which reflect endless life as they point toward heaven—is sure to inspire readers. As you gather as a family around your Christmas tree this advent, may this book be a beautiful reminder of the true meaning of Christmas.

 

The Christmas Light by Claudia Cangilla McAdam

Another fabulous book by Claudia Cangilla McAdam! I thoroughly enjoyed experiencing the Nativity through the eyes of a little girl from the town of Bethlehem. I love the beautiful message that encountering Christ can change a life forever. You’ll want to add this one to your Christmas story collection!

 

Wisdom Finds a Way by Cathy Gilmore

Wisdom Finds a Way is an adorable story about the Nativity as experienced by a surprising observer—Amel the Camel. The Virtue Heroes series written by Cathy Gilmore and illustrated by Jeanie Egolf is a delightful picture book series that shares biblical stories told from the perspective of animals. The stories and illustrations are precious and provide a fantastic introduction to the wonders of our faith.

 

All these books can be found on Amazon. I’ve set links – just click on the highlighted titles. For those who don’t use Amazon you can also check Barnes and Noble online or www.indiebound.org where you can search for books and the local bookstores that might carry them or order them directly from the website. You can also ask your local bookstore or library to order the books for you.

Next month I’ll be reviewing three more Christian/Catholic teen novels. But if you’d like more reviews before then you can always check out my recommendation section on my website: YA Recommendations.

If you’ve come across this post on Facebook and would like to get my monthly reviews sent directly to your inbox, you can sign up on my website – www.LesleaWahl.com.

Until next month – Happy Reading!