COVENANT POWER:Transform Fear Into Faith Through The Power of Jesus Christ by Sharla Goettl TOUR!

What a beautiful book, beautiful topics and beautiful insights. This book is worth a read to level up your understanding of the temple and covenants. 

I haven't quite finished reading this book because I'm taking it in slowly and trying to understand it better.

 

 

COVENANT POWER by Sharla Goettl

Transform Fear Into Faith Through The Power of Jesus Christ

Sharla Goettl

Covenant Power: Overcome Your Fears and Get What You Want

Through Jesus Christ

Description: The book discusses the blessings received through the temple

covenants, and how they are God’s answer to our most common human fears. The

temple endowment is God’s masterclass on how to become divinely successful in

our spiritual life!

Each chapter starts with key scriptural stories that highlight each covenant

principle and finishes with commentary that ties those principles to our covenantal

blessings. 

Written by a current temple worker and Young Women’s President,

Sharla Goettl is also the author of Spiritual Resilience: Leading Our Young to Go

and Do

Themes and Issues addressed:

 Obedience

 Sacrifice

 Faith

 Covenants

 Living the gospel of Jesus Christ

 Enduring to the end

 Temples and temple work

Author's website: www.sharlagoettl.com

Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/authorsharlagoettl

Instagram: @authorsharlagoettl

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/sharlagoettl

Why did you want to write this book? 

My book, Covenant Power, discusses the blessings received through the endowment covenants. I explain how the five covenants within the endowment ordinance are God's answer to our most common human fears and His master class on how to become divinely successful.

Essentially, He is teaching us the first steps to be more like Himself and Jesus

Christ: confident and effective. Every chapter starts with a fictional retelling of key

scriptural stories that highlight each covenant principle. 

Each chapter finishes with my commentary tying the scriptural principles to our covenantal blessings.

The book is written to be engaging for even the youngest of adults by creating a

bridge between the scriptures they know and the temple experience that is newer to

them. My goal is to articulate how making covenants through Jesus Christ is the

best way to get what you want the very most.

Free gift available: The Goal Maker is a guided questionnaire that will help

parents determine what their next best step can be in developing spiritual

resilience. This effort will help set a more powerful example through action, not

just words.

Poem Via Chat and Creativity and Canva

 

Julia: A Novel Inspired by the Extraordinary Life of Julia Child by Heather B. Moore

Before she stepped into the spotlight as a master of French cooking, Julia Child navigated the shadows as a WWII intelligence officer.

On the sunny shores of California, Julia McWilliams is poised to embrace a life of comfort and financial security, with a marriage proposal from a wealthy man to consider. But as World War II erupts in the US, her patriotic fervor compels her to abandon her secure future. Trading country clubs for covert codes, Julia joins the Office of Strategic Services, where her sharp mind aids the Allied cause in the shadowy realm of espionage.

Amid strategic missions in Ceylon and China, Julia crosses paths with Paul Child, a fellow OSS officer whose delight in art, culture, and cuisine awakens a new hunger within her. Their chance meetings ignite a spark that blossoms into romance, leading to a proposal that Julia eagerly accepts. Together they embark on a new chapter in postwar Paris.

In the City of Light, Julia grapples with a different kind of challenge: She refuses to be confined by the societal expectations of a married woman. Drawn to the tantalizing world of French gastronomy—a pursuit her peers deem superfluous—she enrolls at the famed Le Cordon Bleu, and with Paul’s unwavering support, Julia immerses herself in her new passion.

Facing skepticism and prejudice in the male-dominated kitchens of Paris, Julia’s resolve never falters. Her relentless pursuit of culinary mastery not only transforms her own life but also introduces a revolutionary change in kitchens throughout America. From intelligence officer to beloved chef, this is Julia’s extraordinary journey.

Review:

There’s so much more to Julia McWilliams Child than meets the eye. Before she was the world’s most famous chef, she worked in secret intelligence for the OSS during WWII—driven, brilliant, and determined to make a difference. And the wild thing? She didn’t even know how to cook at that point!

Julia didn’t start learning to cook until her 30s, and she didn’t land her iconic TV show until her 50s. That’s what makes her so inspiring—she kept going, through doubts, failures, and reinventions, and proved that women of all ages and talents can achieve incredible things if they don’t give up.

Heather B. Moore captures that side of Julia beautifully. This book is fascinating, empowering, and a reminder that it’s never too late to chase your passion. Julia Child wasn’t just about food—she was about resilience, curiosity, and joy in every stage of life.

Julia Child didn’t learn to cook until her 30s—or land her TV show until her 50s—and Heather B. Moore’s Julia, full of brilliant research, sharp insights, and vivid storytelling, proves it’s never too late to chase your passion!

THE OUTLAW NOBLE SALT by Amy Harmon BOOK REVIEW

When infamous outlaw Butch Cassidy decides to go straight, he discovers that too many of the powerful men he crossed won’t let bygones be bygones. To have a chance at a new life, he’ll have to become someone else entirely.

A brief, fateful encounter with the celebrated singer Jane Touissant on the eve of his escape offers a glimpse of what might have been, but Butch disappears, leaving her behind, until their paths unexpectedly converge again in Paris.

Despite having discovered his true identity, Jane trusts the outlaw and enlists his protection on her upcoming American tour. Although Butch is reluctant to agree, fearing his sordid past may put the woman and her young son in danger, the salvation she offers is too hard to resist.

As they set forth on their journey, Butch’s past and Jane’s secrets put them at risk from threats far greater than the law, and this legend of the American West will have to decide what matters most—his life, his legacy, or the woman he loves.

Book Review: The Outlaw Noble Salt by Amy Harmon

I really enjoyed The Outlaw Noble Salt! It was such an interesting and different look at Butch Cassidy—one that showed him not just as an outlaw, but as a loyal, kind, and surprisingly sweet man. Amy Harmon gave him a possible love interest, and that thread added so much heart and humanity to the story. I loved how their relationship revealed new sides of him and reminded me that even legends have quiet, tender moments.

There was a little more spice than I usually like, but honestly, it was more “ketchup spice” than anything—tame and not distracting from the heart of the story. What stood out most to me was how the book balanced action, history, and romance without losing its emotional core. Harmon’s writing pulled me right into the dusty landscapes and made me feel the weight of choices between freedom, loyalty, and love.

Overall, it was a heartfelt, thoughtful story with a unique perspective on a legendary figure. If you enjoy historical romance that blends adventure with genuine emotion, this one is worth picking up.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 stars)

✨ Until the next chapter, happy reading! ✨

LOUISIANA'S WAY HOME by Kate DiCamillo BOOK REVIEW

When Louisiana Elefante’s granny wakes her up in the middle of the night to tell her that the day of reckoning has arrived and they have to leave home immediately, Louisiana isn’t overly worried. After all, Granny has many middle-of-the-night ideas. But this time, things are different. 

This time, Granny intends for them never to return. Separated from her best friends, Raymie and Beverly, Louisiana struggles to oppose the winds of fate (and Granny) and find a way home. But as Louisiana’s life becomes entwined with the lives of the people of a small Georgia town — including a surly motel owner, a walrus-like minister, and a mysterious boy with a crow on his shoulder — she starts to worry that she is destined only for good-byes. (Which could be due to the curse on Louisiana's and Granny’s heads. But that is a story for another time.)

Book Review: Louisiana’s Way Home by Kate DiCamillo

I just finished Louisiana’s Way Home and it was such a sweet read. DiCamillo has a way of writing that feels gentle and heartfelt, and this story really touched me. Louisiana’s journey is all about family—both the one you’re born into and the one you choose—and it was tender, emotional, and hopeful all at once.

What really stood out to me was the author’s voice. Kate DiCamillo writes with such warmth and honesty that it feels like she’s sitting right beside you, telling you the story out loud. Louisiana’s voice is funny, vulnerable, and so full of life that you can’t help but root for her.

Overall, this was a lovely, thoughtful book. I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys middle grade stories with heart and a little bit of whimsy.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 stars)

THE REEL WISH by Yamile Saied Mendez BOOK REVIEW 5 STARS!

 After a panic attack prevents Florencia from performing as Clara in The Nutcracker and her best friend takes the lead, a new dance style helps her face her anxiety as well as a troubled friendship.

Ballet is Florencia del Lago's entire world. After years of hard work, she is chosen as Clara in the winter production of The Nutcracker. Not only is she the youngest dancer to receive such an honor but also the first Latina. She's on track to be recruited by the best ballet companies.

Unfortunately, she suffers a panic attack on opening night--on stage, in front of everyone. And then Selena, Florencia's best friend, steps right into the role to replace her. Just like that, Florencia's whole world falls apart--the ballet studio expels her, and her best friend turns on her, tormenting her on social media and in real life.

But even though the one thing she was driven toward has come to an end, therapy and family support help Florencia open up to new experiences. She notices people at school she's never paid attention to before, and she even stumbles upon an Irish dance school and decides to give it a try. Can a new passion for Irish dance help Florencia find the joy of performing on the stage that she lost that fateful winter night?

5 STARS!

Straight up: this book hits like a splash of cold water on a hot day—because it dives into the real stuff behind sparkle and tutus.

Meet Florencia—she’s living the dream: first Latina Clara in her town’s Nutcracker ballet. But opening night? She has a panic attack on stage, and everything falls apart. She loses her role, her confidence, and even her best friend, who joins in on the online hate. Yikes.

But this story isn’t about staying stuck—it’s about healing. With the help of therapy, family, and some surprising new friends, Florencia starts to rebuild her sense of self. Her new crew doesn’t care about perfection—they care about her. And being around people who actually see and support her? That’s what helps her see herself more clearly too.

5 stars 
The Reel Wish is honest, heartfelt, and full of hope. It’s about letting go of who you thought you had to be, and discovering the people—and the version of you—that makes life actually feel good again.

I AM A LITTLE BIASED because my name is in the acknowledgments! We were in a lovely critique group known as the Sharks and Pebbles.  I could picture where we were while reading bits of this story. It turned out awesome!

BEYOND PEMBERLEY by Rebbeca Anderson, Samantha Hastings and Sarah L. McConkie REVIEW 5 STARS

Dear Reader, have you ever wondered what happened after Pemberley?

Playing Miss Bennet by Rebecca Anderson
Twenty-year-old Kitty Bennet, visiting London for a season as a companion to Mrs. Gordon, is simultaneously attracted and repelled by a flirty rake. How would a girl like Kitty respond to his roughish behavior? Impossible to tell when she doesn't even understand herself. She must use their time together to practice being someone else. She's sure when she decides which of her sisters' personalities is the best fit, she'll know both who she is and what she wants. Of course, what she wants couldn't possibly be Augustus Haverford. Not with that wicked smile and that tendency to say scandalous things. Can Kitty convince herself he's all wrong for her? Or does fate have something altogether more romantic in mind?

Sisters and Second Chances by Samantha Hastings
Sixteen years since her own elopement, widow Lydia Wickham saves a young woman from running away with a scoundrel. In gratitude the father, Viscount Kingston, offers Lydia a position as chaperone. Childless and estranged from her sisters, Lydia eagerly accepts. Little did Lord Kingston or his daughter the honorable Chloe know how Lydia would shake up their dull, scholarly existence and turn their trio into a family.

The Colonel's Conviction by Sarah L. McConkie
Shrouded by his military facade and careful in love as the younger son of an Earl, Colonel Fitzwilliam has yet to find his soul-mate. When he's tasked to watch over Georgiana Darcy and her new companion—a striking young widow named Clara—he's instantly drawn in, even if he did make a muck of their first meeting. But Clara has a difficult past and a complicated future, and it will be up to the Colonel to show her that no matter how insurmountable the obstacles, hearts can open...if she's willing to take a chance on him.

Dear Reader, have you ever wondered what happened after Pemberley?

Playing Miss Bennet by Rebecca Anderson
Twenty-year-old Kitty Bennet, visiting London for a season as a companion to Mrs. Gordon, is simultaneously attracted and repelled by a flirty rake. How would a girl like Kitty respond to his roughish behavior? Impossible to tell when she doesn't even understand herself. She must use their time together to practice being someone else. She's sure when she decides which of her sisters' personalities is the best fit, she'll know both who she is and what she wants. Of course, what she wants couldn't possibly be Augustus Haverford. Not with that wicked smile and that tendency to say scandalous things. Can Kitty convince herself he's all wrong for her? Or does fate have something altogether more romantic in mind?

Sisters and Second Chances by Samantha Hastings
Sixteen years since her own elopement, widow Lydia Wickham saves a young woman from running away with a scoundrel. In gratitude the father, Viscount Kingston, offers Lydia a position as chaperone. Childless and estranged from her sisters, Lydia eagerly accepts. Little did Lord Kingston or his daughter the honorable Chloe know how Lydia would shake up their dull, scholarly existence and turn their trio into a family.

The Colonel's Conviction by Sarah L. McConkie
Shrouded by his military facade and careful in love as the younger son of an Earl, Colonel Fitzwilliam has yet to find his soul-mate. When he's tasked to watch over Georgiana Darcy and her new companion—a striking young widow named Clara—he's instantly drawn in, even if he did make a muck of their first meeting. But Clara has a difficult past and a complicated future, and it will be up to the Colonel to show her that no matter how insurmountable the obstacles, hearts can open...if she's willing to take a chance on him.

FIVE STARS!

5 Stars – Totally Charming!

I didn’t expect to fall so hard for this book, but Beyond Pemberley completely won me over.

Written by three different authors, it gives some of the lesser-known characters from Pride and Prejudice their own love stories—and I loved every minute of it. These weren’t just background characters anymore. They had depth, heart, and real journeys that felt so satisfying. It was like someone took the “what ifs” I didn’t even realize I had and turned them into sweet, clever, and totally swoony stories.

Kitty

Lydia

Colonel Fitzwilliam

Each author brought their own flavor, but somehow the collection still felt cohesive and true to the world Austen created. I caught myself smiling through entire scenes, especially when a character I barely remembered from the original suddenly had me rooting for their happily ever after.

It was cute, smart, and full of heart—and I’ll definitely be re-reading it whenever I need a little extra joy. Five stars, hands down.

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