MY THOUGHTS Increase Your Bloom Ability: Devotions for Unleashing Your Most Flourishing Self Author: Cheri Strange

 

About the Book

Book: Increase Your Bloom Ability: Devotions for Unleashing Your Most Flourishing Self

Author: Cheri Strange

Genre: Christian Living / Devotional for Women / Prayer Books

Release Date: May 7, 2025

ARE YOU READY TO BLOOM?

Do you feel stuck in your spiritual growth, unsure if God can truly bring beauty and purpose to your life? You’re not alone. Cheri Strange knows the ache of feeling spiritually barren, but she’s discovered the secret to living a profoundly fruitful life—and she’s ready to share it with you.

In Increase Your Bloom Ability, Cheri blends biblical truth with practical encouragement to help you:

• Embrace God’s call to flourish, even in hard seasons
• Stay rooted in Christ to live abundantly
• Trust God’s plan to cultivate spiritual fruit in you
• Take simple steps to grow your faith and accelerate your bloom

Your life was meant to thrive. Step into the vibrant, fruit life Gd created you for—starting today.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Cheri Strange is an award-winning author, speaker, and digital creator. She is passionate about helping women grow spiritually and flourish in their faith. With a Ph.D. and twenty years of ministry experience, she shares practical wisdom and biblical truth that meets women right where they are. Through her books, resources, YouVersion Bible plans, and digital art, Cheri inspires thousands to desire more of God in everyday life. She and her husband, Chad, live in Houston, Texas, with their eight children, and one bonus son.

 

 

 

More from Cheri

Have you ever wondered why, even as devoted followers of Jesus, your spiritual growth sometimes feels stalled? Why the abundant, fruit-filled life God promises can feel just out of reach? I’ve asked these questions of my own heart—and what I discovered in Scripture inspired me to write Increase Your Bloom Ability.

The Bible makes it clear: spiritual fruitfulness isn’t reserved for the gifted or the theologically trained—it’s for every believer (John 15:8). Yet many of us feel stuck, questioning whether we’re doing enough or if real growth is even possible. I dug into Scripture to uncover truths that can help unlock a life that truly bears fruit.

This devotional is the culmination of years of teaching, study, and personal reflection. I wanted to create something that equips you to experience more of God’s promises for your life. Inspired by Andrew Peterson’s words in Adorning the Dark, where he describes his ministry as “telling the truth as beautifully as he can,” I sought to do the same in this book.

I illustrated Increase Your Bloom Ability myself, filling it with over 200 pages of floral artwork—an offering of beauty alongside truth. My hope is that these pages will speak to your soul and draw you into a more vibrant, fruitful walk with Jesus.

My mission is simple: to help you experience a life of profound spiritual growth, one that blooms and flourishes as God intended. Through Scripture, reflection, and the visual beauty of this devotional, I pray you are encouraged, equipped, and inspired to embrace your calling and take intentional steps toward greater fruitfulness.

MY THOUGHTS 

Increase Your Bloom Ability: Devotions for Unleashing Your Most Flourishing Self is written by Cheri Strange. My word this year was intentional and including him that is being intentional with my time intentional with what I’m reading what I’m watching what I’m spending my money on, etc. I am not the greatest in making sure I get my Bible time in every day.

One of the really good things about this book is it’s so packed with information that the author has a nice blend of personal plus biblical truth that you will be excited to do your devotions at night. A wonderful book filled with encouragement, inspiration, prayers, Scripture, beautiful illustrations, and more. 

The book is well organized, and easy to follow. this is definitely a book that will stay on my nightstand for reminders. I truly believe that God brings books for me to review at the time that I need them.

I want to thank the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to partake in this tour and providing me with a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.

Blog Stops

Leslie’s Library Escape, January 15

History, Hope & Happily Ever After, January 16 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 17

Simple Harvest Reads, January 18 (Author Interview)

Artistic Nobody, January 19 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 19

Guild Master, January 20 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, January 21

Fiction Book Lover, January 22 (Author Interview)

Because I said so – adventures in parenting , January 23

Books, Books, & More Books, January 24 (Author Interview)

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, January 25 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 25

Books Less Travelled, January 26 (Author Interview)

Cover Lover Book Review, January 27

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, January 28 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Cheri is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card and a hardcover copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://gleam.io/waoaC/increase-your-bloom-ability-celebration-tour-giveaway

My Thoughts -Terminal Danger (Guardians Unleashed Series Book 5) Author: Jerusha Agen

 

Terminal Danger Kick-Off Package

About the Book

Book: Terminal Danger (Guardians Unleashed Series Book 5)

Author: Jerusha Agen

Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

Release Date: October 24, 2024

This woman and her K-9 are being hunted. Exactly as she planned.

When a busload of schoolchildren disappears, Phoenix Gray knows the kidnapper is the unidentified serial killer she’s spent her life trying to catch. This time, she’ll find the killer and bring him to justice no matter what it takes. She and her Phoenix K-9 Security and Detection Agency join the search for the hostages, but they aren’t the only ones who want the criminal captured.

Callum Ross, an FBI agent who specializes in catching serial criminals, is about to resign. But not until he finds one last culprit, the killer behind a famous twenty-year-old crime Callum vowed to solve.

Despite the FBI agent’s uncanny understanding of her psyche, Phoenix refuses to be distracted from her goal. When the serial killer turns into the cat instead of the mouse, Phoenix thinks she’s ready. But will she need the God she rejected to achieve the justice she’s given her life to obtain?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Jerusha Agen imagines danger around every corner but knows God is there, too. So naturally, she writes romantic suspense infused with the hope of salvation in Jesus Christ. Jerusha loves to hang out with her big furry dogs and little furry cats, often while reading or watching movies.

 

More from Jerusha

Ever since I read Dee Henderson’s O’Malley Series, I’ve been hooked on a special kind of series. You probably can guess what that is. The team series premise!

In Henderson’s masterful Christian romantic suspense series, the “team” is a group of found-family siblings. I love sibling series in which each book features a member of the same family.

But another kind of team series that I enjoy reading is where the characters aren’t related but are bound together by a common job or cause.

Since I love reading team series, I couldn’t wait to write one of my own! Thus, the Guardians Unleashed Series was born.

Guardians Unleashed follows the five women operatives of the Phoenix K-9 Security and Detection Agency. Named after the founder and CEO, Phoenix Gray, this agency pairs each woman with talented K-9s who help them rescue and protect people in need.

From search and rescue to bomb detection and protection from assassination attempts, the operatives and K-9s of the PK-9 Agency can do it all.

When big or unusually challenging jobs come along, the women and their dogs tackle the assignment together. I love how the Guardians Unleashed series has one of my favorite elements of team series—the team members bond so closely with each other, that they become a family of their own!

As the final book in the Guardians Unleashed series, readers had high expectations for Terminal Danger. After all, it’s the story of Phoenix Gray, the secretive and mysterious woman who fearlessly leads her operatives into—and out of—danger.

Phoenix Gray was the most challenging character I’ve ever had to write, thanks to her high intelligence, psychological complexity, and emotional unavailability. But with much help from the Lord, this book came together as well as I had hoped.

One aspect of Terminal Danger that I and readers have enjoyed most is getting to see every team member of the PK-9 Agency again. They come together as a family for their hardest mission ever, and each character plays an important role while readers get the fun of seeing them with their heroes and dogs.

Ultimately, the people and dogs Phoenix brought together for their benefit and the benefit of others may also play an important role in her own life.

Your turn! What do you love about team series?

My Thoughts

Finally! It's Phoenix's story. I have read this series from the beginning and was so excited to finally get to know Phoenix on a deeper level. Terminal Danger is book number five in the Guardians Unleashed series that is written by Jerusha Agen. One of my favorite things about this series is the fact that Phoenix has been so mysterious. As always, the book is jam packed with action and suspense. 

When a busload of schoolchildren disappears, Phoenix Gray knows the kidnapper is the unidentified serial killer she’s spent her life trying to catch. Phoenix we have seen in the other books in the series has been such a powerhouse and the brains behind the PK-9. She is stubborn but determined and she wants to get the children back and put the captor behind bars. 

Callum is about to retire from the FBI - however he needs to close this case. He and Phoenix need to channel everything they know about tracking and outdoors and try and track the missing children. He also has an interesting back story - and I loved that this was the character that the author created for Phoenix's story. The author hit it out of the park with this story. 

The book is well written. The story line is packed full of action and suspense. This was my favorite one in the series. Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 14

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, January 15

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, January 16

Texas Book-aholic, January 17

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 18

Guild Master, January 19 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 19

For Him and My Family, January 20

Blogging With Carol, January 21

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, January 22

DevotedToHope, January 23

Simple Harvest Reads, January 24 (Guest Review from Donna)

Holly’s Book Corner, January 25

An Author’s Take, January 26

Fiction Book Lover, January 27 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, January 27

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Jerusha is giving away the grand prize of a signed paperback copy of Terminal Danger, $25 Barnes and Noble gift card, Terminal Danger tote bag, magnet, and notebook!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://gleam.io/XBWRp/terminal-danger-celebration-tour-giveaway

My Thoughts - Kloe's New Friendship -- Written by KM Selvidge

AGES 9-12ANIMAL BOOKSCHAPTER BOOKSGIVEAWAYSTEENS: YOUNG ADULTS

About the Book

Kloe’s New Friendship

Written by K.M. Selvidge

Ages: 13-18 | 66 Pages

Publisher: Hope Kelley Book Publishing (2025) | ISBN: 979-8218824587

Publisher’s Book Summary: K.M. Selvidge brings back her characters in her second book of the Kloe book series. It’s the second semester, and Main St High is swirling with secrets. Kloe discovers that her brother is not always what he seems, and a new friendship gives her the courage to take matters into her own hands.

Buy the Book

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BARNES & NOBLE

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About the Author

K.M. Selvidge is an author and talented storyteller. She was a dancer, actress, non-profit fundraiser and animal lover. Watching her three cats inspired her to tell the stories that shaped her life growing up, in the hope that they will help others see that they are never alone.

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GUEST POST 

Kloe’s New Friendship

KM  Selvidge

Guest Post Two

Topic: Inspiration for This Story 

The Storm Within

I never understood why people are so frightened of the saying, “be careful what you wish for”.  Why is wishing for something positive a negative?  I only wished for a sibling I could talk to, play games with, or just hang out with.  That seemed innocent enough to me.  However, I didn’t receive that wish or anything close to it.

In many families, as it did with mine, an older sibling sets the tone for household interactions. When that sibling exhibits violent behavior or suffers from untreated mental illness, the home can become unpredictable and, at times, unsafe. As a younger sibling I always felt like I was walking on eggshells, constantly assessing his mood to avoid potential outbursts or conflict.

My brother was a tempest in human form. Our house, nestled quietly at the end of lovely Cul de sac, often trembled under the weight of his rage. Since childhood, the signs were there—violent outbursts over the slightest provocation, broken toys, shattered picture frames, and bruised walls that seemed to echo his pain long after the sounds had faded.

Growing up, I learned to read the weather of his moods. The blue-sky days were few and far between.  Most often, clouds gathered: a slammed door, guttural shouts reverberating through the floorboards, and the sharp, metallic fear that always lingered in my chest.

One of the worst days that I can still remember was one winter night, when dinner was interrupted by an argument that spun out of control. He hurled a chair across the kitchen, splintering it against the wall. Our father tried to soothe him, but his words only stoked the fire. He rushed out into the cold and vanished into the night while we stood together in uneasy silence. Those episodes became increasingly common. My parents were at a loss, struggling to understand his troubles and how to help.

Afterward, I sat in his empty room, looking at the posters of rock bands and comic book heroes. As I considered this phenomenon, I found myself contemplating the subtle and profound ways it influenced the development of my brother's identity. It led me to examine not only his experiences but also the broader context and our shared journey, making me wonder how these forces contributed to who he has become.  There were actual times when he could be the gentle and funny brother.  That brother had vanished, carried off by a storm that no one could tame. His illness was a cage, and we were all trapped inside with him.

As a child in this environment, I often experience heightened anxiety, fear, or guilt. I would internalize my brother’s struggles, wondering if somehow, I was to blame or if I could do more to help. These emotions played upon my self-esteem, difficulty trusting others, or challenges in forming healthy relationships to this very day.

As I tried to navigate these challenges, I developed coping skills—some constructive, others less so. I aimed at seeking solace in my friends, at school, or hobbies like cheerleading or dancing. In my family, open communication was severely lacking which heightened my sense of isolation and made it much harder for me to seek help or express any difficult feelings.

Now, years later, I still flinch at loud noises and sudden movements. The scars on my heart are invisible, but real. Some nights, brief memories of him return—a smile, an apology, a promise—each revealing his brighter side. Those memories keep me hoping for blue-sky days, even as the storm clouds gather again.

The journey of learning from a mentally ill brother is a personal and transformative experience.  It involves understanding the complexities of mental illness, the importance of self-care, and the value of sharing one’s story.

I write these stories to not only offer myself a chance for personal reflection and healing but to let others know they are not alone.  What they feel is happening inside their family dynamics is real.  My goal is to assist with:

1. Raise Awareness

Sharing my sibling’s experience with mental illness can increase understanding, dispel myths, reduce stigma, and educate others about mental health realities.

2. Providing Support to Others

I share my story to help families facing similar challenges feel understood and supported.

3. Encouraging Open Dialogue

Storybooks can spark meaningful discussions about mental illness among families and communities, encouraging openness and helping to lessen feelings of shame. I believe it is crucial to introduce necessary changes.

4. Promoting Advocacy and Change

Personal stories can motivate people to support mental health efforts, push for improved services, or engage in policy change.

5. Empowering Support from Adults

Support from caring adults, whether parents, teachers, or counselors, can make a significant difference. Acknowledging the reality of the situation and providing a safe space to talk about it helps children feel seen and validated. Professional counseling may be necessary not only for the sibling with mental illness but for the entire family, to foster healing and understanding.

6. Preserving Family History

By writing about my sibling's experiences, I aim to honor their journey and inspire resilience in future generations.

6. Fostering Personal Healing

Writing can be therapeutic, helping me process emotions, gain insight, and find closure, or perhaps acceptance.

7. Empowering Your Sibling

Giving voice to my sibling’s story can be empowering for both of us by affirming their value and helping them feel understood as well as seen.

8. Offering Hope

That my Kloe stories might provide a powerful way to connect with others who are struggling.  To advocate for change and promote healing. 

My goal by sharing my own personal perspective is to make a lasting impact on readers and contribute to a more compassionate understanding of mental health. This journey is not ventured solo.  It grasps everyone around it willingly or not.  I feel the only hope is to help yourself by believing in yourself.  That you are worthy of your own story.  Draw strength from your values and identity. Be resilient for and in yourself.  Then and only then, can we help those around us.

MY THOUGHTS

Kloe's New Friendship is a well written illustrated chapter book that is written by KM Selvidge. This book is geared towards ages 13-18. I read this story with my sons, ages 14 and 12 and we all enjoyed it very much. 

Kloe is back to school after break, and there is a new student that sparks Kloe's curiosity. Her name is Jilly. This story teaches middle grade readers trust, friendship, loyalty and honesty. Kloe accidentally tells her best friend, Terry's secret to her brother, Wreny. Wreny being a boy, uses it to humiliate Terry in public. Kloe's mom advises that Wreny is not maturing as fast as she is, and that he will grow out of it. Kloe hopes to salvage her friendship with Terry. Jilly, also has a secret - and it's similar to Kloe. Jilly has a younger sibling that is not as mature as Jilly. 

This book is a great read for those that are dealing with many changes. Since I have boys in the targeted age group, and we just moved to a different state and they had to switch schools this helped them with the adjustment. I loved the themes of showing that inner strength along with how sibling relationships can be complex. 

I hope to read more from this author. 

Thank you to the author, publisher and Children's Book Review for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own. 

Kloe’s New Friendship
Virtual Tour Dates

Monday, December 15, 2025 The Children’s Book Review Tour Kick-Off for Kloe’s New Friendship

Tuesday, December 16, 2025 Crafty Moms Share Book Review of Kloe’s New Friendship

Thursday, December 18, 2025 Life is What It’s Called Author Interview with K.M. Selvidge

Friday, December 19, 2025 @avainbookland Instagram Post about Kloe’s New Friendship

Monday, January 5, 2026 Deliciously Savvy Book Review of Kloe’s New Friendship

Tuesday, January 6, 2026 Country Mamas With Kids Guest Post about Kloe’s New Friendship

Thursday, January 8, 2026 icefairy’s Treasure Chest Book Review of Kloe’s New Friendship

Friday, January 9, 2026 @MeghensLittleLibrary Instagram Post about Kloe’s New Friendship

Monday, January 12, 2026 Because I said so – adventures in parenting Guest Post about Kloe’s New Friendship

Tuesday, January 13, 2026 @nissa_the.bookworm Instagram Post about Kloe’s New Friendship

Thursday, January 15, 2026 Q&As with Deborah Kalb Author Interview with K.M. Selvidge

Kloe’s New Friendship Book Giveaway