Firefly Summer

Firefly Summer

by Kathleen Y'barbo

Sessa Chambers was widowed and left with a young son to raise.  Her story picks up after her son is grown and has chosen a destructive lifestyle that has led to his death at the hand of another. After the trial the accused, a successful surgeon, was sent to prison.  Two years later a witness has come forward and told the truth -- the surgeon killed the young man in an act of self-defense. 

Dr. Trey Brown was that successful surgeon.  He served two years in prison, during which time he developed a personal relationship with Christ.  He is now learning to come to terms dealing with taking a life, but how will he ever go back to surgery and once again save lives?  He also feels a strong urge to go to the mother of the young man and try to make amends for her loss. 

Sessa is nothing like Trey thought the mother of a con artist drug addict would be.  She is a quiet, artistic woman who is in business for herself.  She is surrounded by a strong network of supporting friends who regularly attend the Pies, Books and Jesus Book Club.  She has taken on the raising of her son's unexpected gift, her granddaughter.  She struggles with fear that any day her granddaughter's mother will return to take the child away. 

Sessa and Trey work to come to terms with forgiveness, each feeling they are the guilty party.  Trey feels he can't do enough to atone for the life he took, but eventually begins doing things for Sessa because of the joy he receives in return.  He falls in love with both Tessa and her granddaughter, and is taken in by the book club.  Sessa has felt a strong urge to apologize to Trey for what her son did to destroy Trey's life and career, which in turn stuns Trey.

Can Sessa and Trey accept grace from each other and God, and begin an unexpected future together?  I can almost guarantee you won't be able to put the book down.  Check out Kathleen Y'Barbo's website for previews of other available books while you wait for the June 23rd release of Firefly Summer.

In order to comply with new Federal Trade Commission regulations, please note that this book was provided compliments of Redbud Press' book review program.

Book Review: RESTLESS: BECAUSE YOU WERE MADE FOR MORE

Bible Study by Jennie Allen
W Publishing an imprint of Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2013

Jennie Allen is a powerfully gifted author and speaker who used her passion to create the Restless Bible Study based on the life of Joseph.  Watching the video, it is obvious that God's hand is on Jennie.  The Bible study is for women, and is geared to help women fill the craving inside of us, the restlessness put there by God.  I saw one reviewer remarked that instead of an in depth Bible study, she found Restless to be more along the lines of the basics, a beginner study.  However, don't we all need to get back to the basics?  We need to remember why we were created -- to worship and serve God -- and then learn how to apply our passions, our gifts, our talents to please Him.

Restless is an eight week Bible study using DVD teaching, an individual study, and group activities (using question cards for members).  The study begins with telling God's Story and runs through such lessons as learning about Gifts, sharing and growing though our Suffering, learning to be used in our own Places and with our own People, and ending with our Passions and the Mystery of the power of the Spirit of God.  Jennie uses stories from her life and the lives of her friends and family to illustrate how God grows us and uses us.  It is well worth getting the DVD to go along with the written Bible study, even if you choose to do the study alone.  And you may need a box of tissues if you allow the Spirit to move in you -- I sure did!

Getting back to the basics -- I am not an immature Christian. I came to Christ as a child and have been in church since birth,  I went to Christian schools, I have been through countless Bible studies and have taught and led some of the same in church. I found Jennie to be refreshing, honest and moving all at the same time. Her study of the life of Joseph was good.  No it didn't take a lot of my time, but it made me think beyond the study.  Yet -- I learned.  What I already had heard and knew was refreshed.  I feel a renewed passion in my life.

One passage of Scripture was used that I really like:  "I will put a new heart and new spirit inside of you.  I will take out your stubborn, strong heart and give you a willing, tender heart of flesh."  Ezekiel 36:26  Isn't that all that God asks, to be willing to be used by Him?  Jennie's thoughts on why we don't use our gifts: 1) we don't know what they are; 2) we compare ourselves to others;  and 3) we listen to criticism.  I had never thought of those before, but it's the truth.  Everyone struggles with these issues.

I can't wait to share this Bible study with my friends (my People)!  And when we are through, we will be looking at some of Jennie's other studies.

In order to comply with new Federal Trade Commission regulations, please note that this book was provided compliments of Shelton Interactive's book review program.

BOOK REVIEW: Hidden Falls, Episode 1: Ordinary Secrets

Season One, Episode1: Ordinary Secrets

By Olivia Newport

Published in 2013 

Shiloh Run Studios, an imprint of Barbour Publishing, Inc.

It sounds like a new TV show, one shown on a weekly basis, that leaves you in suspense waiting for the next week.  One that is full of interesting characters and gives a glimpse into one day in the lives of the characters, not enough for the whole picture or even the whole truth (things may be very different than they seem), but enough to make you wonder...  

In the first episode, which happens to be Ordinary Secrets, the scene is set for a gala honoring the town's most loved teacher, Quinn.  That's his last name, by the way.  His real name is Ted or Teddy, or Theodore, something like that, but everyone just calls him Quinn.  He has been the high school history teacher for thirty years now, and because of the impact he has had on his students and his town, a gala has been scheduled to honor him.  The only thing is, he doesn't want to be honored.  He seems to be a humble man who enjoys helping others, but does not want public recognition.  

Throw in the town mayor, Sylvia, who is also the owner of one of the local shops and who has loved Quinn for nearly all of the thirty years he has been in town, who even went RING shopping with him at one point, and you start to get some suspense.  Then add former students who left years ago and are returning only because of their love for Quinn.  One in particular, Ethan, is finishing up his fifth of six years of his neurosurgical residency; if it weren't for that handwritten note from Quinn, Ethan would not have showed up.  A personal request for a heart to heart with Quinn cannot be refused. There is a newly arrived trial lawyer by the name of Jack Parker who along with his family is escaping big city life and it's accompanying problems.  Liam is a respected financier who is afraid of commitment and is also hiding a secret; his younger brother Cooper is with the sheriff's department.  Nicole is an ace reporter who works the crime scene in the big city and once dated Ethan for a long period of time, but that relationship fell to the wayside with their differing life decisions.  Lauren, a girl who returned home and works for the church, is nervous about an upcoming church project in which she seems to have no control but in which Quinn has assured her everything has been handled.  And we can't leave out Dani, a woman who does odd jobs for everyone around town but is uncomfortable in public settings.  There you have it, a great mix. You get a glimpse of each character's life, just enough to know that there might be some secrets buried under the surface, but we'll just have to dig.  

This episode opens on Saturday morning of the big day, and ends just as everyone is about to be re-introduced to their teacher and mentor, Quinn.  A loud noise goes off -- no problem, someone set the cannon to the wrong time (cannon?).  Introductions continue, the curtain is raised, and...........  Hmm, come back next week to find out what happened!

Ordinary Secrets is the first episode in a series of thirteen which are set to be released on a weekly basis beginning January 24, 2014.  It will take no time at all to read this first episode.  There is a Facebook page set up where you can interact with other readers, get insights from the characters and join contests -- who doesn't love contests?  And especially great is this offer,  getting a free copy of  the first episode.  Are you going to join the fun and see what happens next in Hidden Cove?  I hope so...

In order to comply with new Federal Trade Commission regulations, please note that this book was provided compliments of Handlebar Publishing's book review program.

BOOK REVIEW: The War on Christmas

Battles in Faith, Tradition and Religious Expression
Bodie Hodge, General Editor
Published by Answers in Genesis, 2013

What is Christmas to you?  What should Christmas be?  What is myth, tradition, or the truth behind our celebration?  Trusted Bible scholars at Answers in Genesis have set about to answer these questions and many more.  This book is a collection of essays by several authors answering questions and countering traditions, which makes for some overlap in content.  However, if you have a question or wonder about a Christmas tradition, or why we should even celebrate Christmas, this book will help.  It is an interesting book which relies heavily on the Bible (as it should since we are supposed to be celebrating Christ's birth), but also presents archaeological and astronomical evidence as well as customs and traditions of the time of Christ's birth.  By the way, you do know that Christ is not part of Jesus' name, right?  It is a title which means "the anointed One, the Messiah", and the angel who appeared to the shepherds used the title for Jesus (for unto you ...is born a Savior, Who is Christ the Lord).  

Why title the book "the War on Christmas"?  Did you know that there actually is a "war" on Christmas?  We see evidence of this every day -- schools that don't allow Christmas plays, winter break instead of Christmas holidays, the pure commercialism of Christmas.  The traditions of Santa Claus and Saint Nick, some of which are based on good, but do not relate in any way to the birth of the Savior.  Yes, there is a war going on...

When we think about Christmas we generally think about the Baby in the manger.  But why did He even come? Why was it so special then and now?  Because this Baby is God's own Son, Who grew to be a sinless Man who was sacrificed for the sins of the world.  

What was the order of events surrounding the birth of Christ; what did the angels really say; were there three kings?  Did Mary have other children after Jesus?  Was Jesus really born in a stable?  You'll find all this and more in The War on Christmas.

I hope you will not only enjoy the book, but also be inspired to remember the real reason for the celebration.

In order to comply with new Federal Trade Commission regulations, please note that this book was provided compliments of Handlebar Publishing's book review program.

BOOK REVIEW: Compass, the Study Bible for Navigating Your Life

Published by:  Thomas Nelson, Inc. 2012

I am a die-hard King James Bible reader.  I love the language of the translation, and have never felt I was in over my head, as many claim to be when they read this translation of the Bible.  Maybe it's because I have been reading it all of my life.  Several years ago I received a different version of the Bible, made a comparison of some of my favorite parts and areas I consider very important doctrinally, and found that comparing the two versions was enlightening.  So when Shelton Interactive offered to allow me to review the new Compass, the Study Bible for Navigating Your Life, I was thrilled.  I was especially excited to see this new translation, because it features The Voice translation by Ecclesia Bible Society (I had previously reviewed The Voice in it's New Testament form).  

Let me just say I can't put this Bible down.  It has become my at home go to translation.  Yes, I still carry my King James to church, but now I compare the two and even find I like how the Compass Study Bible translates into more understandable ways of speaking (not modern language, but in ways of saying things and getting the point across).  

If you are familiar with The Voice, you already know that the translation is written in script format, such as when a person is speaking the speaker is identified, followed by what the speaker says; instead of saying something like "then Jesus said" it will say "Jesus:" followed by His words.  I find this much easier to read and understand.  This also eliminates the need of red lettering for the words of Jesus.

Another feature of the Compass Bible is it's paragraph formatting.  I could never understand ending a verse before a sentence or thought has ended.  But that could be just me and my way of reading.  I have personally found that when a translation is written in verse form, you may be tempted to end at the end of the verse, instead of completing the thought/sentence, and thereby lose the meaning of what is being said. 

The Compass Bible also uses the term "Anointed One" in place of "Christ".  We have all fallen into the trap of using the term Christ as a last or second name for Jesus, when in fact it is actually a title used of the Son of God, meaning "Anointed One".  Another term used is "The Logos" meaning the Voice.  Remember John 1:1 which in the King James translates "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God."  The Compass translates this verse as "Before time itself was measured, the Voice was speaking.  The Voice was and is God."  

Let me give you one more comparison, using John 10:24-30:

KJV:

24  Then came the Jews round about him, and said unto him, How long dost thou make us to doubt?  If thou be the Christ, tell us plainly.

25  Jesus answered them, I told you, and ye believed not; the works that I do in my Father's name, they bear witness of me.

26  But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep, as I said unto you.

27  My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.

28  And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. 

29  My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand.

30  I and my Father are one.

the Compass:

... 24and Jews gathered around Him.

Jews:  How long are You going to keep us guessing?  If You are God's Anointed, the Liberating King, announce it clearly.

Jesus:  25I have told you, and you do not believe.  The works I am doing in My Father's name tell the truth about Me.  You do not listen; 26 you lack faith because you are not My sheep.  27My sheep respond as they hear My voice; I know them intimately, and they follow Me.  28 I give them a life that is unceasing, and death will not have the last word.  Nothing or no one can steal them from My hand.  29 My Father has given the flock to Me, and He is superior to all beings and things.  No one is powerful enough to snatch the flock from My Father's hand.  30 The Father and I are one.

Especially important to note is that this translation uses the "word for word" in some places, and the "thought for thought" method in other places.  When you get your copy of the Compass, make sure to read the preface. 

Other features are the commentaries in the middle of the page where they apply to the Scripture, instead of at the bottom as is traditional.  Comparable verses are listed at the bottom of the page, although they seem to be few.  There is a topical index of words and ideas, and a topical index for notes, both of which are sufficient, but not as in depth as you might find in other translations.  There are great introductions to each book of the Bible, as well as a Transition from the Old Testament to the New Testament which includes an essay on the Covenants of God and one on the names of Jesus.

In my opinion, the Compass Bible brings out the beauty of the language of the Bible, gives a clear and concise translation of the Bible, and holds true to the doctrine of the Bible (man's preferences for interpretation are not chosen over what the actual translation would be). Overall, I believe you will learn much from this translation of the Bible, and maybe even be inclined to read and study the word of God more, falling deeper in love with the Anointed One, the Messiah, our Savior.

In order to comply with new Federal Trade Commission regulations, please note that this book was provided compliments of Shelton Interactive's book review program.

BOOK REVIEW: Prairie Song

PRAIRIE SONG
By:  Mona Hodgson
Published by:  Waterbrook Press 2013

Although Prairie Song is the first book in a new series called Hearts Seeking Home, by Mona Hodgson, it picks up where the story left off in the series The Quilted Heart.  Prairie Song follows Anna Goben, her mother and her grandfather as they leave their home in Missouri for the promised land of California.  Anna hopes the trip and the new home will be the catalyst that will change all their lives.  They suffered a terrible trauma during the war (Civil War) in the death of Anna's brother.  Now they have an awefull secret -- her mother is an alcoholic -- and her grandfather has given up on life.  This is a family who is just living from day to day and not experiencing a life of contentment or joy.

Anna is right.  The trip brings about change in her family, if not change as she had hoped. And along with friends who leave Missouri with her family, she finds new friends along the trail.  And could she also find love?  Will she need to give up being the one in the family everyone leans on?  Can she really do that?  She has always sacrificed her life for the well being of others.  Now she finds that might have been a big mistake.

This book has not yet been released for publication.  However, you can pre-order on Amazon.com or with your favorite retailer.  As usual, I am looking forward to reading all the books in this series -- when they come out!

In order to comply with new Federal Trade Commission regulations, please note that this book was provided compliments of WaterBrook Multnomah's book review program.

BOOK REVIEW: Seven Steps to Knowing, Doing and Experiencing The Will of God for Teens

Seven Steps to Knowing, Doing and Experiencing The Will of God for Teens

Seven Steps to Knowing, Doing and Experiencing The Will of God for Teens

Experiencing God at Home

By: Tom Blackaby, Mike Blackaby and Daniel Blackaby

Published by: B&H Publishing Group, Nashville, Tennessee, 2013

I was very pleased with this book! It is written by the son and two grandsons of the famous Henry Blackaby who wrote Experiencing God: Knowing and Doing The Will of God. I have never read the elder Mr. Blackaby's book, but I am certainly now entertaining the idea of finding it and reading it. His son and grandsons have made that great of an impression on me.

I just about guarantee that if you have a teenager in your life and you give them this book, they will learn much about how to learn about and serve God in their daily life. More than likely they won't be able to put the book down. It is written in such a way that it captures the attention. It shares personal experiences of each of the Blackaby's – some humorous, some challenging – as well as snapshots from history in helping to outline how to know and do God's will.

There are seven steps outlined:

• God is always at work around you;
• God Pursues a Love Relationship with You;
• God Invites You to become involved with Him in His work;
• God speaks by the Holy Spirit (this step is broken into four parts);
• God's invitation leads to a crisis of belief;
• Adjustments;
• You come to know Bod by experience as you obey Him, and He accomplishes His work through Him.

Each chapter is followed up with study questions and ample space to write your thoughts. This book is written in an engaging, thoughtful, sometimes humorous manner, and will hold your attention and make you think. It just might help you grow to know God in a more personal way.

Why not read this book along with your teen? It's not too simple for adults to learn from, and you might learn how to relate to your teen while you're at it!

In order to comply with new Federal Trade Commission regulations, please note that this book was provided compliments of Shelton Interactive's book review program.

BOOK REVIEW: I Am a Church Member: Discovering the Attitude that Makes the Difference

 I Am a Church Member: Discovering the Attitude that Makes the Difference
By Thom S. Ranier

Published by: B & H Publishing Group, Nashville, Tennessee, 2013

This little book is packed. With ideas, attitude and conviction. Seven small chapters focusing what I can do to be a better church member. Each chapter is summed up with a pledge and study questions. The book is less than 100 pages long so it doesn't take long at all to read. However, I would suggest reading and studying one chapter at a time, absorbing what Mr. Ranier is saying, and learn how to apply that to your life before continuing on to the next chapter. This book is as much about what a church member should not be as what one should be.

I mentioned that this book is convicting. It is! One of the most convicting chapters for me is chapter 4, I Will Pray for My Church Leaders. Do you know how hard it is to be a Christian leader, especially in this day and age? You think the devil comes after you, but a Christian leader who is sold out to God, who is trying to do as they believe God would lead them, is under constant attack. I had forgotten. I was moved to tears and had to confess in prayer, and then begin praying hard for my pastor. And I have seen God moving in my church since that time, or maybe God has removed the scales from my eyes and allowed me to see, and pray more specifically.

If you want to improve your walk with Christ, and if you want to grow as a Christian, I would highly recommend this little book. This is one that I will be passing along, but asking for it to be returned so I can read it over and over and remind myself of what I should be doing. By the way, the author is the CEO of LifeWay Christian Resources and is a pastor and researcher. As such, he has his finger on the heartbeat of modern Christians.

In order to comply with new Federal Trade Commission regulations, please note that this book was provided compliments of Shelton Interactive's book review program. 

BOOK REVIEW: The Winnowing Season

The Winnowing Season

Amish Vines and Orchards Book 2

By:  Cindy Woodsmall

Published by:  WaterBrook Press, 2013

 

This book continues the story of Rhoda Byler and Samuel and Jacob King, as begun in Cindy Woodsmall's previous book A Season for Tending.  If you love Amish fiction, this book is for you.  The tornado that devastated the King apple orchard is now taking it's tole on Rhoda, Samuel and Jacob.  Tensions are high as they try to rebuild, while at the same time preparing to make the move to Maine where they plan to form a new Amish community while at the same time expanding their business. Rhoda, Samuel and Jacob must deal with their pasts before they can have a chance at the future. 

 

Problems arise when Rhoda is called before the church on the night before she is scheduled to leave for Maine.  If she fails to attend, her brother and his family will not be permitted by the church to go to Maine.  Rhoda must show her quiet strength and her faith in God.

 

Jacob must deal with a reappearance of someone from his past.  He is engaged to Rhoda, but he has commitments that prevent him from traveling with Rhoda to Maine.  His past commitments show up time and again.  Will they cause harm to his relationship with Rhoda?

 

And what about Samuel?  He is constantly trying to smooth the way for others, mainly by asserting his control and doing what he feels is right for those he loves, not allowing them to make decisions and take the consequences for themselves.  Will he learn to loosen his control, or will he destroy any chances he may have with his family and friends?

 

The Winnowing Season is full of questions and answers, not all of which are answered in this book.  So...you will have to read the third installment of the series, titled For Every Season.

 

The Winnowing Season is a stand alone book, but if you haven't read the first book in the series, I would recommend you start there.  You won't want to miss anything!  You can find Ms. Woodsmall's books at her website:  http://www.cindywoodsmall.com/.  You can also read her blog and check out the Amish Recipes section.

In order to comply with new Federal Trade Commission regulations, please note that this book was provided compliments of WaterBrook Multnomah's book review program.

BOOK REVIEW: Freefall to Fly

Freefall to Fly:  A Breathtaking Journey Toward a Life of Meaning
by:  Rebekah Lyons
Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.
Copyright 2013

Freefall to Fly is a raw, emotional, honest look at what happens when you let go and let God take control.  How do you find the meaning and purpose in your life, or is life wrapped up in your family and day to day responsibilities? 

 

Over the course of two years Rebekah Lyons dealt with panic attacks and had to face the reasons of why she was having them.  For a season they stopped, and then they returned.  What was the cause?  She had a fear of mental illness, because her father was debilitated and in assisted living because of all the drugs he had been prescribed over the years to deal with his own mental illness.  Rebekah discovered that her panic attacks stemmed from the fear of letting go.  Not willing and not knowing how to turn complete control of her life over to God.

 

Rebekah tells how the short online documentary Boatlift: An Untold Tale of 9/11 Resilience narrated by Tom Hanks made an impact on her life. 

Perhaps this is how God thinks of rescue.  When our panic sets in and we usher up prayers, desperate enough to jump off the seawall to swim for our lives, He rushes in with an overwhelming response.  If only we would make that final call.  It's the one action no one can do for us.

 

When we let go and ask God to take control, we are free to fly.

 

At times I cried with her, at times I laughed.  I have experienced a lot of the same emotions she went through.  I believe if you have the chance to read this book, you will gain a new insight into living the life God called you to.

 

In order to comply with new Federal Trade Commission regulations, please note that this book was provided compliments of  Handlebar's book review program.

BOOK REVIEW: Dandelions on the Wind

Dandelions on the Wind

By:  Mona Hodgson

WaterBrook Press

Maren came to America from Denmark as a mail order bride, right at the beginning of the American Civil War.  Her intended was a friend of her family, and she felt safe in knowing she would be cared for and would have the opportunity to bring her remaining family to America once she was married.  However, no one counted on the fact that Maren is going blind.  A wife who has difficulties seeing is not what her groom had intended, so he escapes to the war. 

Maren takes various jobs, but eventually settles in with a grandmother raising her four year old granddaughter, Gabi, alone.  The girl's mother had died during childbirth, and the death of his beloved wife was more than Rutherford, otherwise known as "Woolly", could take.  So like Maren's intended, he joined the war and has not seen his daughter or his mother-in-law since the day of Gabi's birth.

The war is now over and soldiers are coming home, Woolly among them.  He is met with coldness from his mother-in-law upon his return, but great joy by his daughter, who has been praying to meet her PaPa.  How will Woolly's return affect Maren?  Will she have to leave the family now?  Will this give her the opportunity to take a job in town in order to save money for her return to Denmark? 

This book was too short!!  It came to such an abrupt end, although a good one, and left me wanting more.  So of course I had to order the next book in the series! 

 

In order to comply with new Federal Trade Commission regulations, please note that this book was provided compliments of  WaterBrook Multnomah's book review program.

BOOK REVIEW: North of Hope: A Daughter's Arctic Journey

North of Hope: A Daughter's Arctic Journey
By:  Shannon Huffman Polson
Published by Zondervan, 2013

Shannon last spoke with her father and stepmother on Father's Day 2005.  She is on the return journey home after visiting her brother and his wife.  Her brother is in the car behind her when she receives a phone call.  It's from Alaska, and is the police are asking for Shannon Huffman.  Dread settles in.  Her father and stepmother are in Alaska kayaking down the Hulahula River located in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.  Disbelief as the officer explains that her father and his wife have been killed.  She pulls over the to the side of the road, her brother behind her.  He crawls in the car with her and they sit stunned.  What had been an adventure for experienced Alaskan adventurers Richard and Katherine Huffman has become their final days on earth.  They have died a gruesome death.  Mauling by grizzly.

A year later Shannon and her adopted brother Ned, along with Ned's friend Sally, begin a rafting trip down the same Hulahula River.  Shannon has not been able to deal with the deaths of her father and stepmother and hopes that this trip will bring closure for her.  The trip brings back memories of a lifetime spent in the outdoors with her father, a retired JAG officer who started his own law firm in Alaska, where he raised his family.  Shannon, Ned and Sally reach the site of the deaths, each handling their grief in a different way.  Shannon, by praying and building a cairn, Ned by going off by himself.  Once they leave the site, Ned becomes angry, turning his brutal anger towards his sister. The trip cannot end quickly enough.  The trip does not bring the peach Shannon had sought.  Only when she is waiting alone for the plain to pick her up at the end of the trip does she begin to feel solace and understanding.

North of Hope: A Daughter's Arctic Journey seemed disjointed to me.  One moment you are in the present, then you are back in time, which was a bit confusing.  Also, Shannon is a very educated woman and writes as such.  I won't give a negative review, but neither can I give it my best, since it was a struggle to make myself finish the book.

In order to comply with new Federal Trade Commission regulations, please note that this book was provided compliments of  Zondervan's book review program.

BOOK REVIEW: GRACE, More Than We Deserve, Greater Than We Imagine

By:  Max Lucado

Published by:  Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2012

If you have never read a book by Mr. Lucado you are missing a real treat.  He does not lecture, talk over your head, and is not dry or boring.  In fact, when I read a book by Mr. Lucado I feel as if he is sitting in my living room sharing a cup of coffee with me.  We are friends, and he values my opinions but is not afraid to share his own from the Bible.  Plus he has a very fine sense of humor, and is excellent at explaining things. 

Such is the case in this new book called simply "Grace."  Herein he gives the Biblical account of grace -- what it is and what it is not.  He presents it in a manner a child could understand, while at the same time being intellectually stimulating.   Some moments are just "a-ha" moments, why didn't I think of it that way before? 

To me, grace is a beautiful word.  One of my favorite words.  Because of grace, I have the greatest gift imaginable which is an eternity in heaven with God.  All because of grace.  And what is grace?  Simply a GIFT I can choose to receive or reject, based on the precious gift of God's only Son Jesus' death on the cross, taking my sins and graciously covering them with His blood.  Grace is not earned. 

Find out much more in the eleven short chapters of the book.  I would also like to recommend the Reader's Guide in the back which is filled with extra Bible references and study questions.

In order to comply with new Federal Trade Commission regulations, please note that this book was provided compliments of  Thomas Nelson's book review program.

BOOK REVIEW: Borders of the Heart

Chris Fabry, Author
Tyndale House Publishers, 2012

J. D. Jessup wants to get away from life, so he heads to the desert near Tucson, Arizona where he hires on at an organic farm.  The lifestyle is far from the one he is running from, where he was once a musician, playing guitar and writing music from his heart.  Now, his greatest responsibility is to make sure that if he ever sees an illegal, he is to call Border Patrol.

One early morning ride changes his life forever.  While checking fences he stumbles across a body, only to find that the "body" is a beautiful young woman, an "ILLEGAL" by the name of Maria, who is near death.  Blocking from his mind his employer's requirement to call Border Patrol, J. D. hides Maria, caring for her wounds as best as he can.  In search of better medical care, and also with the vague thought of persuading Maria to turn herself in, J. D. begins to look beyond himself and care for someone other than himself.  

Unfortunately, trying to take care of Maria leads to a deadly trail of events.  Death and destruction seem to follow Maria, and hence J. D. as well.  Constantly on the run, J. D. and Maria seem to have different directions in mind.  What follows is definitely not what you would expect.  Throughout the journey, J. D. and Maria change, for the better.

Author Chris Fabry takes many twists and turns in this story.  What you first think might be a love story turns out to be anything but.  Hopefully you will "enjoy" this book as much as I did. 

Check out Chris' author Q & A, and take a peek at the book trailer.  Then pick up a copy of this book.  You won't regret reading this fast paced tale!

To comply with new regulations introduced by the Federal Trade Commission, please be advised that Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book.

BOOK REVIEW: A Season for Tending

By:  Cindy Woodsmall
Published September 2012
Book One in the Amish Vines and Orchards Series

Once again Cindy Woodsmall has written a book that I could not put down. She left me hanging!!  Now I have to read books two and three, or however many she will write in this series.  Exasperating sometimes.

Rhoda Byler is a young Amish woman who is still single, and she prefers it that way.  Although she lives in the home of her parents, along with her two brothers and their growing families, she has her own profitable business.  She is also considered by those outside her family as being peculiar and someone to stay away from.  It's been said that she gets premonitions of things that are going to happen.  She even knew her younger sister Emma was going to die.  And she couldn't save her. 

This sense of impending doom is not something Rhoda wants to be known for or deal with.  How can she cope, knowing she was unable to save her sister Emma?  Understandably Rhoda tends to keep to herself so she won't stir up conflict.

Another Amish family is going through their own problems.  The weight of the family business, an apple orchard, rests on the shoulders of a young man named Samuel King.  He is embroiled in a relationship with a young woman who wants more of his time than he is willing to give.  His younger sister Leah is going through her wild, running around years, and his brother Jacob has come home from the outside world and will not talk about his problems.  Plus he has other sisters and his younger brother Eli to deal with.

The lives of these two families become entwined when Rhoda finds Leah hiding in her garden after a late night out on the town.  Rhoda butts heads with Samuel over Leah, but also over the proposition Samuel offers concerning utilizing her services with his orchard.  Along the way a romance blossoms between Rhoda and Jacob.

The story concludes with a cliffhanger.  The families are working together, and now they must make a decision that will change their lives forever.  What choices will they make, and how will those choices impact the lives of the younger generation?  Will they allow God to guide their lives, turn over their problems to Him?

In order to comply with new Federal Trade Commission regulations, please note that this book was provided compliments of  the WaterBrook Multnomah book review program.

BOOK REVIEW: The Girl's Still Got It

By Liz Curtis Higgs

Published by WaterBrook Multnomah Released July 2012

Ladies, if you have never heard of Liz Curtis Higgs, you really need to check her out!  THIS girl's got it.  In her new book The Girl's Still Got It, Liz explores the story of Ruth.  A story completely about women (well, the men do play minor parts, although they are sort of wimpy, all except for the HERO of the story,  wait 'til you get a load of HIM!).  In her characteristic style, Liz tells the story of Ruth and her mother-in-law Naomi.  She explores verse by verse, phrase by phrase, and it is not dull or boring at all!  Liz definitely has the gift to transport you back in time, to be able to stand in the shadows and see this story unfold under God's guiding hand.  You will fall in love with the characters.  You might cry, and you will most definitely laugh.  After all, the narrator IS Liz!

Take a moment to visit the Liz Curtis Higgs website.  You can get a jump start by watching the video, and don't forget the Righteous Ruth Rap, Liz's own take on rap music.  Plus you can join in on the online Bible study that's available.  Whatever you do, reading and studying the story of Ruth with Liz will allow you to see Ruth and Naomi from a whole new angle, to be sure.  And I guarantee you will learn something new, and hopefully new things to apply to your life.   I know I have!

In order to comply with new Federal Trade Commission regulations, please note that this book was provided compliments of  the WaterBrook Multnomah book review program.

BOOK REVIEW: The Power of Happiness: A Comprehensive Guide to Daily Joy and Well Being

By:  Timothy McKinney
Published July 31, 2012

Wow!  What do you say when you get a book with a title like that!  Everyone wants to be happy, don't they?  Unfortunately not everyone is happy.  Happiness can be elusive.  And really, what is happiness?  Is it a result of our actions?  Our emotions?  Can it be as a result of both our actions and emotions?  In "The Power of Happiness" author Timothy McKinney seeks to help us learn how to become happy people. 

"The Power of Happiness" is separated into three easy to read parts covering the definition of happiness, determining if you are really happy, and how to be happy.  Through the use of vast amounts of controlled research, life examples, quotes at the beginning of each chapter, charts and graphs, questionnaires and even the suggestion of the use of certain foods and physical/mental exercise, along with a touch of humor to get the point across, Mr. McKinney has made this book an excellent tool for achievement of and recognition of one's personal happiness.  There are even questions and lists to be completed in some of the later chapters. 

There are so many quotes from this book I would like to share, but I'll settle on just one:

The secret to lifelong happiness is to really understand that Life Isn't Supposed To Be Easy.  It's not!  Think about that for a moment.  The VAST majority of our unhappiness comes from expecting things to be different than they are.  We as humans are under the false impression that life is supposed to be easy and that when life isn't easy, there is something wrong.  (pg. 59)

Although there was much in Mr. McKinney's book I liked and will personally use, I must admit I disagree with some of his points.  Most importantly I disagree with "The Golden Key" of Emmet Fox from which Mr. McKinney quotes, which basically states that you can call on God and He will solve your problems.  Better yet, you can think the name of God (or any religious icon you want), and just by thinking, you can make your problems go away.  Let me yell this out -- based on what the Bible says, I disagree!  You cannot use God as a talisman or good luck charm.  You cannot think of God or the name of God and your problems disappear!  Just because you may believe in God does not mean that all of your problems will go away or that God will work in your favor.  God says that all things work for His will, not mine. 

I also have to disagree that the goal of life should be our own happiness, although I don't believe there is anything wrong with being happy.  To the Christian, the Bible tells us to put Jesus first, then others, and lastly ourselves.  When our goal is only our own happiness we have missed the point and have become self-serving.  Colossians 3:12-17 gives the Christian virtues, and verse 17 makes this point: 

And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.

So what are we to do?  There is nothing wrong with being happy or trying to be happy.  But don't make that the goal of your life.  As a Christian speaking to Christians, this is a good book with much great advice and wisdom.  Use this book to help you achieve your goals in life.  However, temper it with God's wisdom.  If you are a new Christian or are not grounded in the Bible, I would have to say it would be best not to read this book.

I received this book free from the author, who requested an honest review of his book.  I am under no obligation to give a favorable review.

BOOK REVIEW: House of Mercy

HOUSE OF  MERCY

By Erin Healy

Published by:  Thomas Nelson, 

Publication date: August 7, 2012

Beth Borzoi is a young, gifted woman with a love for her family and animals, who is also an aspiring veterinarian.  Unfortunately, family dynamics in the Borzoi house are tinged with jealousy.  Jealousy between Beth and her older brother; between Beth and her mother.  Good natured teasing goes on between Beth and her youngest brother, Danny.  Her father is her hero and she feels secure in his steadfastness and love.  She and her family own the Blazing B ranch where they raise cattle, and where they also give a home and jobs to men who have fallen on hard times.  Her father has become a hero to some of these men, for standing in the gap between society and the lives they are trying to make right.

Unfortunately Beth has a problem, and she takes the matter into her own hands by stealing a good friend's unused, forgotten saddle to use as payment for another friend's veterinary bill.  Beth's theft leads to a chain of events that includes the loss of an expensive piece of property and consequently the loss of her personal freedoms.  Death comes, and Beth believes it is because of her misdeeds.  She leaves the ranch in a desperate search for answers, only to find much more than she bargained for.  And has she been given a supernatural gift from God?  Will He forgive her for all the trouble she has caused?  Some things cannot be changed, but can Beth accept mercy and forgiveness, and even offer the same to others?

I hate to be so vague, but this is one story you are just going to have to read for yourself.  Read with an open, non-critical mind.  Don't pass it off as being too mystical.  And even though I do not believe that God works today in the manner that happens in this story, remember that all things are possible with God, and He can choose to reach and use His children in any manner He chooses (remember the talking donkey in the Old Testament?).  This is  a work of fiction, where anything goes to teach a point.  Didn't Jesus employ these same traights Himself when He tried to teach those around Him?

In my opinion, Erin Healy has done an excellent job in using uncommon "characters" and events to heighten the suspense of House of Mercy.  If you would like to learn more about Ms. Healy, check out her website where you can download free samples of this book.  If you like suspense and a little bit of the unknown, with a strong sense of God's guiding and Word, I think you just might like this author.

  

In order to comply with new Federal Trade Commission regulations, please note that this book was provided compliments of  the Booksneeze program.

BOOK REVIEW: The Fourth Fisherman

By Joe Kissack
Published by WaterBrook Press, 2012

Let me begin by saying if you are squeamish, you may want to skip this book or be prepared to skip over parts of this book.  

Joe Kissack's new book The Fourth Fisherman tells the true story of five Mexican fisherman who set out on a three day fishing expedition only to encounter problems which eventually lead to the death of two of the fisherman.  Of being stranded in the Pacific Ocean for nearly nine months with no supplies such as food and water. How did these three men survive?  What gave them the will to go on?  

Simultaneously, Joe Kissack was facing his own ocean of problems. Although he was a fairly well off mover and shaker in the television industry, there was something missing in his life.  His life was beginning to crumble and fall apart.  The Fourth Fisherman combines the life and death story of the struggle of the Mexican fishermen with the life and spiritual struggles of Mr. Kissack. 

I did enjoy reading this book and had a hard time putting it down.  But without personally knowing Mr. Kissack I was somewhat uncomfortable wondering if he was using the fishermen's story to sell his own.  But the book does tell a beautiful story of the grace and mercy of God.  However you take Mr. Kissack's personal intentions, I don't think you will have a problem becoming engrossed in the story.

In order to comply with new Federal Trade Commission regulations, please note that this book was provided compliments of the Blogging for Books program.

BOOK REVIEW: Garden of Madness

Published by:  Thomas Nelson, 2012

Have you ever wondered what it would be like living in the times of the kings of the Bible?  What if you were of the house of Nebuchadnezzar?  Say, the daughter of the great king himself?  I love history, the actual life of history.  I always want to know more.  And Tracy L. Higley has certainly satisfied my curiosity and held my attention with this new book, Garden of Madness. 

Garden of Madness is set at the end of the seven years of Nebuchadnezzar's banishment, when he roamed as a madman, as a beast, until he submitted to the one true God, the God of the Jews, Yahweh.  Nebuchadnezzar's youngest daughter Tiamat has just lost her husband (whom she was forced to marry to form a political alliance), the son of the imprisoned Jewish king Jehoichan.  Now she is faced with another impending forced marriage alliance to one of her mother's cousins, a prince of the Medes.  Unbeknownst to Tiamat, the mage Shadir is plotting his own takeover of the throne through marriage to Tia by a man of his choosing.  A third possible contender for Tia's hand in marriage is the unwilling Pedaiah, the brother of Tia's deceased husband.

With so many unwanted marriage options, along with ferreting out the reason for the death of Tia's husband and two murders in the palace, Tia seeks solace in the presence of her father Nebuchadnezzar, to whom she remains loyal even through his madness.  She tries to find answers through the ways of her people using the magic of the powerful mage Shadir and through sacrifice to the gods.  When she finds herself in impossible, terrifying circumstances she begins to believes she is going mad.  After all, isn't madness hereditary?

In her search for answers, Tia has to decide if she is willing to follow where truth leads, and if she is willing to make choices based on that truth.  Following truth leads to surprising personal decisions and outcomes for Tia and her family.

Tracy Higley does a wonderful job answering the question of what might have happened to Nebuchadnezzar during his seven year absence, who might have reigned in his stead, how a takeover of the kingdom may have been presented, and a look into the life of the beloved Daniel.  To find out more about this book visit Tracy's website.  By the way, I'm going to the website myself to check out all of her other books!

In order to comply with new Federal Trade Commission regulations, please note that this book was provided compliments of  the Booksneeze program.