Daily Gifts of Grace

Women of Faith have done it again. You will delight in the daily devotions compiled by Patsy Clairmont, Mary Graham, Natalie Grant, Lisa Harper, Sandi Patty, Joni Eareckson Tada, Sheila Walsh, Lisa Welchel among others.

This is a fabulous hardbound book with a magnetic flap cover. Each day has a scripture verse along with a reading written by one of the Women of Faith speakers. Join these women as they guide us through the year with timely advice and guidance. Watch and see how God can use the Women of Faith to strengthen and deepen your walk with Him. 

I am pleased to give this a five star rating.

To find Women of Faith events near you go to: www.womenoffaith.com

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Christian Writer’s Market Guide 2012 by Jerry B. Jenkins

Inside this guide you will find helpful information on book publishers, e-books, contests, niche markets, self-publishing, magazine publishers, groups, conferences, and workshops. This is the ultimate guide to help you become a published writer. When you carefully read and follow the information you will be well on your way to being a published author.

The book is broken down into four parts:

Part 1: Book Publishers

        2: Periodical Publishers
        3: Specialty Markets
        4: Helps for Writers

 *ACW Christian Communicator is a bi-monthly publication that has updates for any changes made to the market guide. This helps keep your Christian Writer’s Market Guide CURRENT!

Order it at: www.ACWriters.com or call 1-800-21-WRITE

 This resource is updated yearly. You can contact them for information on how to receive this guide automatically every year and freeze the price at $24.99, plus postage.

Email: marketguide@christianwritersguild.com

 I am happy to give this book a five star rating.

I received this book free from the publisher through the Tyndale House Publishers.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Why Men Hate Going To Church by David Murrow

Why men hate going to church is a necessary book for all. This is an easy read. The chapters are short so if you don’t have to set aside large amounts of time aside to read the book. I like how David uses humor to get his point across.

You will find three parts to this book:

1.      Where Are The Men?

2.      Church Culture vs. Men Culture

3.      Calling The Church Back To Men

Have women taken over the church and made men feel uncomfortable? Do we feminize our men? Does a lack of men in the church, stifle church growth? Can we do something to bring men back to church? “Why Men Hate Going To Church” will answer these questions and more. This will make for a great group study. Every Pastor should read this book. I am thrilled to give this book a five star rating.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Lonestar Angel by Colleen Coble

Once again Colleen nails it, this is a great story. I think it would make for a fabulous Christian movie. The way she brings this almost divorced family together makes for a wonderful and intriguing novel. I like how Colleen tackles a variety of topics. This story takes you on a rollercoaster ride. Just when you think you have figured out “who,” Colleen jumps you with a surprise.

Lonestar Angel is part of a series but can be read as a standalone book. Throughout this work of fiction Eden and Clay Larson endure many uncomfortable situations. Can they wade through them to reveal the truth of their daughter’s identity?

I am happy to give this novel a five star rating.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

The Love & Respect Experience By Dr. Emerson Egggerichs

Hands down this is the most husband friendly devotional ever! I love the fact that he gives a few words to each the husband and the wife before the devotional starts.  All the devotionals are based on the Love & Respect principles. Yes, I do recommend having the book while you are doing the devotional.

It is helpful to do the first chapter and then move on to any chapter of your choice, we don’t have to do it in order! We should save the last chapter for the very end as it closes out the devotional. Each chapter is about three pages and opens with a verse, ends with a prayer and action, an insight is also included. The appendix has additional discussion questions for each chapter so if you want to go deeper you can.

The devotional is leather bound and would make for a great gift, small group study, mentoring, etc. I am thrilled to give this book a five star rating.

I received this book free from the publisher through the www.BookSneeze.com, book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Forsaking All Others by Allison Pittman

Have you ever thought about what it would be like to abandon your family for your own personal safety? Hard to imagine! In Forsaking All Others that is exactly what we find. Camilla Fox has left her husband Nathan and two daughters behind as she can no longer follow in the Mormon teachings.  Our timeline is the 1850’s and Brigham Young is in charge of Salt Lake City, UT. When Nathan takes a second wife Camilla has a difficult time trying to make the transition. She then decides to run away and ends up with the US Army. During this time Camilla reconnects with her parents only to find out that her father is quite ill. She then journeys back home to make things right with them before her father dies. While home the family lawyer wants to assist her get her children back from Nathan.  Camilla travels back to Salt Lake City, UT and gains custody of her children. Throughout Camilla’s struggles are deep and wide.

This is the second book in the Sister Wife Series. I found that this book was able to stand alone as I did not read the first book “For Time & Eternity.”  I am happy to give this book a five star rating.

Book disclaimer: Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Gabby God’s Little Angel by Sheila Walsh

This is a great children’s book! Gabby the angel is in “guardian angel training” and she is placed with a little girl named Sophie. She needs lots of protection, but is Gabby up for the job? Can Gabby show Sophie God’s love for her?



The Lord is your protection…He has put his angels in charge of you. They will watch over you wherever you go. Psalm 91:9, 11.


The illustrations are so adorable every little girl will love having this story. You will find sentences in pink and blue. It is possible to just read those words if you’re short on time but have already promised a story to your child. I am giving this book to my niece for her second birthday.


I am pleased to give this book a five star rating.


I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Sweet Sanctuary by Sheila Walsh and Cindy Martinusen Coloma

This is a great story about forgiveness. As children Wren, Barb, and Jack go through a life changing event. I like how Sheila and Cindy take us through “family drama.” It was gentle but firm. This is very relatable as there are no “perfect families.” We all have issues with those we love. The big question is can Barb, Wren, and Jack make peace with each other and the past? Each of them has dealt with the situation differently. This books focus is on Wren and her son Charlie, so you are getting much more from her point of view. I think this is a great way for us to think about our own “family history” and see if there is anything God wants us to deal with.


This book has been chosen as a Women of Faith fiction selection. I am happy to give this book a five star rating.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Too Blessed to be Stressed by Debora M. Coty

I love the layout of this book!

The author has four sections where she shares her stress relief.


-Time Management
-Develop a Sense of Humor
-Cultivate Relationships
-Focus on Faith




There is a scripture verse for each chapter with a closing quote from various people. There is a time for reflection in her “Let’s Decom-Stress.” This makes for a great devotional, small group study, or one-on-one mentoring.

I did find two chapters to be a bit offensive and felt the author had a lack of experience on the topic she was writing.

The chapter on Nutrition I could spend hours on how much I don’t like this chapter. I felt the opening verse was taken out of context! Yes, I did look it up in four other versions! George Bernard Shaw’s quote at the end of the chapter was way off and totally offensive! This whole chapter needs to be removed or rewritten!

The chapter on Physical Maintenance I felt that once she stated she was “going to be technical” she no longer talked “to us” but “at us.” Physical Maintenance has not much to do with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Tennis Elbow or Golfers Elbow. Physical Maintenance isn’t just simple stretching exercises.

For this reason I will give this book a three star rating. I did recieve a free copy of this book for review from Litfuse.

http://litfusegroup.com/blogtours/text/13418047

Debora has created a “Too Blessed” prize package worth over $150! One grand prize winner will receive:


* A brand new Latest Generation KINDLE with Wi-Fi and Pearl Screen
* Too Blessed to Be Stressed by Debora Coty (for KINDLE)

To enter just click one of the icons below. Hurry! The giveaway ends August 25th. Winner will be announced on the evening of the 18th during Debora's De-Stress Facebook Party! Debora will be hosting a "life-preserver" chat (it’s okay if you haven’t read the book – who knows, you might WIN a copy!), testing trivia skills, swapping funny stories, handing out some decom-stress tips, and giving away tons of great stuff! (Chocolate, books, and more!) Hope to see you there. Bring your friends and join the fun on August 25th at 5:00 PM PST (6 PM MDT, 7 PM CDT, & 8 PM EDT).

Courageous by Randy Alcorn

I must disclose that on page 364 Randy states “About 20% of the book comes directly from the movie; the other 80% I had to invent to make this into a novel.”

MOVIE IN THEATERS SEPTEMBER 30th

I LOVE! LOVE! LOVE the book♥. Yes, I am looking forward to watching the movie but the book covers sooo much more than the movie can. This will be an awesome tool for anyone working with youth or just have teenagers in their life. The book is centered around four law enforcement officers whose biggest challenge is fatherhood.



The amount of topics covered in this book is amazing!

Gangs, Violence, Drugs, Alcohol, Guns, Teen Sex, Dating, etc.
Abortion, Infertility, Adoption
Relationships
Integrity
Mentoring
Regret
Restoring Relationships
Accountability for Men


I am very impressed with the “Resolution” and I really pray that the men will get behind this and use this as a tool for being the father that God has created them to be.


Can these men face the challenge of fatherhood?

I am thrilled to give this book a five star rating.



Book disclaimer: Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.



Watch a Trailer to the movie Courageous!

The Little Red Book Of Wisdom by Mark DeMoss

This should be read by everyone! Mark DeMoss shares with us wisdom that he has gleaned for both our professional and personal life.


Money isn’t Everything; Good People Are
God Owns it All
A Proverb a Day
Shut up and Listen
Buy some Stamps
Technology isn’t Everything
Under-promise, Over-deliver
Work Less, Think More



I found this to be a very quick and easy read. I am seriously going to implement several of his suggestions. I am pleased to give this book a five star rating.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Be The People by Carol M Swain,PhD

Be The People is a must read! This book is a call to action to reclaim our nation’s faith and promise. Carol exposes many deceptions that we have allowed to enter our culture.


Carol has divided this book into two parts.

Broken Vows: Forsaking What We Once Knew.

Banished Virtues: Reclaiming Truth And Justice In Policy Choices.



After each chapter Action Points are available to use for further reading and study. I love the fact that Carol has included The Ten Commandments, The Declaration of Independence, The Bill of Rights, and The Constitution of The United States of America (1787) in her appendix. These documents need to be read and understood by all Americans.

Here is a small glimpse into why Carol would write this book in her own words…

I have always had a deep love for my country. As one of twelve children living in rural South in a four-room shack with no running water, I experienced poverty and racism. Yet even when I was a high school drop-out and teenage mother, I still trusted in the American Dream. I believed I could make a better life for my family, so I worked hard, got my GED, and not only put myself through college but earned five graduate degrees and went on to have a successful career in academia. I have seen life in America from the bottom, from the middle, and from the top. Through my experiences I have learned something about what works and what doesn’t.

Now is the time for us to stand up and … Be The People.

http://www.carolmswain.com/


I am happy to give this book a five star rating.
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Growing Up Amish by Ira Wagler

Ira shares with us his personal journey of Amish life. Ira gives us an up close and personal account of how the Amish live.

 Your either Amish or English you can’t be both!

 Ira struggles to find himself and has a long “Rumspringa” –running around time. When he is home he longs for the world and when he is in the world he longs for home. The Amish life wants to box him in and he has too much freedom in the world. He struggles with this.


Ira was very open about how the Amish system works and he merely states it as fact not slander. It just is! I could sense that he truly did try to continue in the Amish way of life but he just could not do it.

Most of the Amish books that I have read have been from the women’s side of Amish life. It was great to be able to read about this from a man’s perspective. You can read more of Ira’s writing’s on his blog at www.irawagler.com.

I am thrilled to give this a five star rating.



Book disclaimer: Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Spring For Susannah by Catherine Richmond

Catherine Richmond was focused on her career as an occupational therapist till a special song planted a story idea in her mind. That idea would ultimately become Spring for Susannah, her first novel. She is also a founder and moderator of Nebraska Novelist critique group and lives in Nebraska with her husband.

For more about Catherine, please visit http://www.catherinerichmond.com/.  

This is a debut romance novel for the author. Susannah is a mail order bride to her pastor’s brother Jesse Mason. Susannah leaves Detroit for the Dakota Territory with a marriage certificate in hand to a man she has yet to meet. The personalities of Jesse and Susannah are drastic but they play well off each other, making them an interesting couple and giving them the depth needed to keep the story moving.

Susannah’s father was a veterinary surgeon and as a young girl she would learn from him how to take care of animals. Her mother was not in favor of this. Once she arrived in the Dakota Territory her veterinary skills became necessary.

I would like to see this book become a series or at least a second book. I felt that once Jesse left and Susannah was on her own that something was missing. I do like that she became more independent and outspoken, but I missed Jesse. I have many unanswered questions about the characters that a second book could answer. I would love to read more from this author.

I am pleased to give this book a four star rating.

I received this book free from Litfuse Publishing. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

To celebrate her debut novel, Catherine and her publisher, Thomas Nelson, have teamed up to give away a Spring For Susannah Prize Package worth over $150!

One grand prize winner will receive:

* A brand new Latest Generation KINDLE with Wi-Fi and Pearl Screen

* Spring for Susannah by Catherine Richmond (for KINDLE)

To enter just click one of the icons below and then tell your friends! But hurry, giveaway ends on June 27th. Winner will be announced on Tuesday, June 28th at 5 PM (6PM MST, 7PM CST, & 8PM EST) during Catherine's Spring for Susannah Book Club Party on Facebook! Catherine is rustling up some fun for the party - she'll be chatting about the story behind her novel, hosting a book club chat, testing your mail-order bride trivia skills, and giving away some GREAT prizes! Don't miss the fun and tell your friends!

 

http://litfusegroup.com/blogtours/text/13347248

A Reluctant Queen

Even though liberties were taken with the story of Esther the basic story did stay intact.  It’s difficult to take a well know Biblical account and keep it entirely accurate and have a great novel at the same time.  I like how the author was selective with the events that were added and deleted from the novel. This would make for a great group book, as it would be easy to get your not-yet-saved friends to read a novel. It’s less intimidating than asking them to read the Bible story from the scriptures. Once the book is read it would make for a great comparison and they can see where the author took creative liberties with the novel. The last page has a group reading guide, what more could we ask for.

I am pleased to give this book a five star rating.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Growing Kingdom Character by Tom Yeakley

 

I found this ten week Bible study to be a great resource for leader development. There are two parts to this study; the first is foundational character qualities: love, integrity, humility, and servanthood. The second part is supporting character qualities: purity, faith, patience, self-control, teachability, and courage. Each topic opens with a reading section devoted to that particular quality which can be read in 15 minutes or less. The study is divided into four sections.

Bible Study: Here is where you will spend quality time looking up the references provided and writing down things you have observed about each topic. The amount of scripture varies.

Memory Verses: Four verses are given with each chapter.

Prayer: Ideas on how you can stimulate your prayers about each topic.

 Exercises: These will help you develop your leadership abilities in each area.

Obviously, the more time you spend going over the scripture verses and the exercises the longer it will take to accomplish each chapter, but it is time well spent!

I would highly recommend this Bible study and I am pleased to give this book a five star rating.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

The Mission Of Mercy Series by Susan May Warren

 Susan May Warren is the RITA award-winning author of thirty novels with Tyndale, Barbour, Steeple Hill and Summerside Press.  A four-time Christy award finalist, a two-time RITA Finalist, she’s also a multi-winner of the Inspirational Readers Choice award, and the ACFW Carol Award.  A seasoned women’s events speaker, she’s a popular writing teacher at conferences around the nation and the author of the beginning writer’s workbook: From the Inside-Out: discover, create and publish the novel in you! She is also the founder ofwww.MyBookTherapy.com, a story-crafting service that helps authors discover their voice.

For more about Susan and her other books, please visit http://www.susanmaywarren.com/.

 Point of No Return 

An American boy and a warlord's engaged daughter have disappeared-together-in an Eastern European border country. Only one man can find them in time to prevent an international meltdown-Chet Stryker. But Chet is taken aback when he realizes the boy is the nephew of Mae Lund, Chet's former flame. When Mae insists on rescuing her relative herself, Chet knows he has to protect her from the enemy on their trail. Yet can he protect himself from falling for Mae again?

I really liked this love story. I did not read Susan’s previous series where she introduces Chet and Mae, but I never felt like I was missing information that was given in the previous book(s).  Chet owns an international security company, and Mae is a pilot –the- best-of-the-best! Mae wants to work for Chet but he refuses to hire her. This ends there year long relationship. When Mae’s nephew Josh goes to Georgia –the country, and doesn’t return Mae calls Chet for help.  Unknown to Mae, Chet is wanted in Georgia. As they search for Josh and the warlord’s daughter, Mae and Chet’s fire and water relationship is shared throughout the story. Will Chet and Mae find Josh and Darya on time? Does Chet make it out of the country alive? Can Chet and Mae restore their relationship? Sorry, no spoiler here, you will have to read it to find out.

                                                                               Mission: Out of Control

Brody "Wick" Wickham is a former Green Beret turned security agent-with a 100 percent mission success rate. No way is his new assignment changing that. Even if it's protecting a diva American rock star while she's on tour in Europe. Except Veronica "Vonya" Wagner isn't just a beautiful celebrity used to having her way-she's the daughter of a U.S. Senator. And she's hiding a dangerous secret. When Wick discovers what's at stake, how far over the line will he go to keep them both alive?

I love the fact that Veronica had so many personalities going concurrently throughout the story. It kept my interest to see what kind of trouble she was going to get herself into next. Wick was on alert at all times with “Vonya,”  never knowing what she might do next. Getting to know and help Veronica became a dangerous and emotional process for Wick. Developing feelings for a client is a huge NO, but does so anyway. Will he be able to do his job and keep her safe?

This is one read that will keep you turning the pages. I am happy to give this book a five star rating.

                                                                               Undercover Pursuit

The only way to get security agent Luke Dekker to a wedding? An undercover mission as groomsman. He'll bust the groom, a drug cartel heir, before anyone can say "I do." Then Luke can escape all this love and romance nonsense-and the too pretty bridesmaid/agent assigned as his "fiancée" for the weekend. Until Luke discovers that sweet, vulnerable Scarlett Hanson isn't his contact. Isn't an agent.
Isn't trained for the high-stakes mission now trapping them both. And worse, Luke's falling for her-which is not part of the assignment.

I loved the twists and turns of this romance. The three couples in this book are sure to keep you turning the page. I totally enjoyed the suspense that each couple brought to the story.

This was a great series. I think it’s also possible to read them as individual books.  I am pleased to give this book a five star rating.

To celebrate the series, Susan is giving away a Missions of Mercy Prize Pack worth over $200! One grand prize winner will receive:

* A brand new FLIP HD Camera

* The entire Missions of Mercy series

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. You may enter once per email, facebook, and twitter. The contest ends on May 31st. Tell your friends! Winner will be announced on June 1st at the Litfuse Publicity site and at Susan May Warren's website. (While you're there, check out her rockin' new website!)

http://litfusegroup.com/blogtours/text/13307091
I recieved these books from Litfuse for free in exchange for an honest review.

SMALL is big! by Tony & Felicity Dale with George Barna

Defining “church” would be a good summary of this book. I was not expecting the book to go in the direction that it did and was pleasantly surprised by it.  I must admit that I have been in the midst of taking a “break” from my “legacy” church. I had just gotten to the point of overload and was in desperate need of a break, so I have been home on Sundays while the family is at “church.”

I appreciate how Tony & Felicity explain the “simple” church concept. In chapter 4 they share some things that I can totally relate to as this explains why I have taken a “break” from my church.                     

 “Those who are leaving the church are not necessarily immature in their faith. Many have had a long-standing walk with the Lord and have been in church leadership. They are not leaving because they have lost faith. They are leaving the church to preserve their faith. The result is “church outside the box,” a small gathering of friends loving Jesus together and reaching out to the community around them. They have freedom from church politics, from a need to “perform,” and from we-have-always-done-it-this-way tradition. In simple church, we no longer struggle to please people but are now free to march to the Holy Spirit’s drumbeat. Liberated from endless meetings, we have time to get involved in our communities and to reach out to a world that so desperately needs the Lord.”

Tony & Felicity are the first to say that the “simple” church is not for everyone –especially those already in a “legacy” church. They are looking for not-yet-saved people. On many levels I think this makes it easier to reach not-yet-saved people as they don’t have preconceived expectations of “church.” I can see how this would be a great way to reach those that would “never” go to a “traditional” church.

I am pleased to give this book a five star rating.

Book disclaimer: Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book or ARC.

No Place Like Holmes by Jason Lethcoe

When Griffin is sent to stay with his detective uncle at 221B Baker Street for the summer, he is certain that his uncle must be the great Sherlock Holmes! But Griffin soon learns that Holmes lives at 221A Baker Street and his uncle lives unit 221B. Sure, his uncle is a detective, but he's not very good. That won't stop him from taking a case that Holmes has turned down. Deemed to be ridiculous, a woman claims that her husband was swallowed whole by the Loch Ness Monster. Along the way, Griffin shows his uncle just what it means to have true faith in God, even when the case challenges that. But the question remains-are monsters real, or aren't they?

 I chose this book for my two boys and they will not be disappointed. It’s a great read for ages 9 -12 years old. The chapters are short and its suspense will keep our young readers engaged. It was easy for my mind to start thinking about possible solutions to the case but I shall not be giving it away.  I also liked that it included discussion questions,   two short mysteries for Griffin to solve and a recipe in the back of the book.

I am excited to give this book a five star rating. I will also be donating this book to our Christian school.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com http://BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Max on Life by Max Lucado

This time Max takes on everybody’s questions and compiles them in one place for people to find the answer. His topics are:

Hope

God, grace, and “Why am I here?”

Hurt

Conflicts, Calamities, and “Why me?”

Help

Prayer, Scripture, and “Why church?”

Him/Her

Sex, Romance, and “Any chance of a second chance?”

Home

Diapers, Disagreements, and “Any hope for prodigals?”

Haves/Have-Nots

Work, Money, and “Where’s the lifeline?”

Hereafter

Cemeteries, Heaven, Hell, and “Who goes where?”

As you can see from the topics Max is not afraid to answer some difficult questions. Max answers them with a firm love for those lives he touches. One can sense through his answers that he truly wants what is best for each and every one of us.  

I feel this is a great resource book for leaders to use with/for those we are mentoring. I am pleased to give this book a 4 star rating.  

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com http://BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

The Lightkeeper's Ball by Colleen Coble

This is the third book in the Lightkeeper’s series. I did not read the first two books but I had no problem starting in on the third book.  Once I started reading it was hard to put down. I loved the mystery, drama, murder, love, action and suspense that Colleen Coble wove into the Lightkeeper’s Ball.

Olivia Stewart decides to investigate her sister’s death. While traveling to Mercy Falls, Olivia decides to use her title “Lady Devonworth” in the hopes of gathering information.  Moments before arriving in Mercy Falls Olivia is already in great danger.  Through this situation Olivia makes friends with the lighthouse keeper’s wife. When disaster strikes Olivia suggests having a masquerade ball to raise the necessary funds to rebuild the lighthouse.  Olivia keeps running into Harrison Bennett, the one responsible for her sister’s death… or maybe not. Her feelings  for Harrison modify as she gets to know him, but is she putting herself in danger?  Will Olivia figure it out… before her own demise?

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com http://BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

The Final Summit by Andy Andrews

David Ponder is back. This time the fate of mankind is in his hands.

This is mankind’s last chance. Centuries of greed, pride, and hate have sent humanity hurtling toward disaster, and far from its original purpose. There is only one solution that can reset the compass and right the ship, and it consists of only two words.

With time running out, it is up to David Ponder and a cast of history’s best and brightest minds to uncover this solution before it is too late. The catch? They are allowed only five tries to discover the answer.

Readers first encountered David Ponder in The Traveler's Gift. Now, in The Final Summit, Andrews combines a riveting narrative with astounding history in order to show us the one thing we must do when we don’t know what to do.

~~

Once I started reading I couldn’t put it down. I love how David Ponder takes us with him to his meeting with all of the previous time travelers. You will love meeting Winston Churchill, Joan of Arc, Abraham Lincoln, Anne Frank, and many others. Granted their time is limited and they must figure out the answer to life’s ultimate question, but …..can they do this and only use two words?...Can you?

Here’s the question: “What does humanity need to do, individually and collectively, to restore itself to the pathway toward successful civilization?”  Remember the answer is only two words.           

This is one book where you will want to journal as you read and maybe write a personal declaration. I am thrilled to give this book a five star rating.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com http://BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

A Conversation with God for Women By Marcia Ford

When I received this book I was a little surprised to see the layout of the book. The layout and composition of the book is high quality. One thing that really struck me was the fact that she used EIGHT different Bible versions throughout the book. For me that’s a bit excessive. Marcia Ford attempts to answer 55 questions and places them into seven topics.

God  -Why should we trust you?

Jesus  -Did You really die to save everyone?

The Bible –Who actually wrote the Bible?

Life – How can we do it all?

Prayer – Is there one right way to pray?

Relationships – How can we have deeper friendships?

Good and Evil – How can evil coexist with Your love?

After the question is asked she gives the “name” of the speaker that is “giving” the answer. It is one thing to speak for yourself.  It’s another entirely to speak for God, Jesus, or any Bible figure. Some of her answers I would agree with while there are others that I don’t. This is the type of book that you either like or not. I would have to give this a three star rating.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com http://BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

The Chase > Pursuing Holiness in Your Everyday Life

 By Jerry Bridges with Jay and Jen Howver

The Chase is a contemporary version of the classic The Pursuit of Holiness. Here is just a quick excerpt from the book that you can find on page 21. “God calls every Christian to live a holy life. No one gets out of it. Holiness isn’t something just pastors, missionaries, and a few dedicated volunteers chase after. Every Christian of every nation – rich or poor, educated or uneducated, famous or unknown – is called to be holy.”

 This is a very easy read; the chapters are short but packed with great information.  What is holiness? How are we to be holy? Holiness is not an option, it is a daily battle. How do we train ourselves to be holy? Can we be holy in an unholy world? These are just some of the topics that are covered in this book.

I think this would be a great study or devotional for college students or a new believer that wants a deeper relationship with God. They use The Message for Bible scriptures. My only cause for concern is that the type set seems to be a little off at times. Either the words are too close together or spread out too far. I would recommend this book to anyone looking to live a holy life.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Who Is My Shelter? by Neta Jackson

Wow! I ♥ it! Neta has once again nailed it, leaving me wanting more, much more.

 The Fairbank family has made many changes since we first meet them in “Where Do I Go?”  Gabby’s husband Philip has one problem after another, but will the marriage survive? Lawyer Lee Boyer wants to take Gabby away from Philip. Throughout all the Fairbanks problems Gabby still has the House of Hope to manage and her work at Manna House Women’s Shelter. My favorite homeless character Lucy has a birthday and finds some information she is not looking for. Lucy has been a strong but quiet character, one I would to love to read about. Just like Elisa Doolittle’s Father says, “I’m willing to tell you, I’m wanting to tell you, I’m waiting to tell you.” Oh Neta, please do tell about Lucy.

The families living at the House of Hope have great diversity and bring various  circumstances  for Gabby to handle. This is new territory for Gabby and she receives guidance from Mabel on how to handle these things. Through it all Gabby goes to the rock, her shelter. Join Gabby as she journey’s through the many changes going on at the House of Hope.

Please note that I was not asked to review this book. I purchased this book by choice.

Fasting by Scott McKnight

When most people hear the word “fasting” they start to cringe. One immediately thinks of all the things we would have to forgo while fasting. For me I think that’s incorrect. It’s not about what you can’t do/have; it’s spending time focusing on the Lord. 

According to Scott, fasting is the natural, inevitable response of a person to a grievous sacred moment in life. With that said fasting is not a diet, it’s a choice to withhold food or drink for a specific period of time. He feels that fasting should be a natural and inevitable response to different situations that happen in our lives.

I found this book to be very dry for my liking. I didn't always agree with some of Scott McKnight's thoughts and or opinions when it comes to the purposes or references of fasting. When taking references from other documents beyond that of God breathed scripture, I am always leery. He refers to Catholic history, Monks, John Wesley, and several Bible figures throughout the book. Scott McKnight is an Anabaptist Theologian.

I received this book free from the publisher through www.BookSneeze.com

The Lucado Life Lessons Study Bible

The Lucado Life Lessons Study Bible NKJV

It’s a great inspirational devotional Bible. The applications are “Lucado nuggets.” If you enjoy reading Lucado books you will love to spend time doing the devotionals that Max has sprinkled through the scriptures. You will find an Introduction for each book. Life Lessons on the side of the pages, each one includes a situation, observation, inspiration, application, and exploration.  Side bar quotes sprinkled throughout. Full-Page devotionals on a variety of topics. Christ Through The Bible and New Life In Christ articles are excerpts taken from Lucado’s previous books. The 30 Studies For New Believers is a great way to get your “feet wet” and have a personal quiet time with the Lord.

The reader doesn’t need to go purchase individual Bible studies when reading this Bible. It is all right there. It’s a great Bible for the new convert or the seasoned Christian.

 This is a handy resource for lay ministers, teachers, and mature Christians.

I really enjoyed walking through scripture with Max Lucado. I am happy to give this book five stars.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com http://BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255