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Wednesday, December 31, 2014

Steadfast Heart by Tracie Peterson - my review

I enjoyed the friendship between Lenore and Abrianna in Steadfast Heart (Brides of Seattle, #1) by Tracie Peterson. Together they made a beautiful team. Abrianna with a lovely heart that wants to help all the less fortunate and Lenore who has the means to do so.

I loved the ladies that run the Bridal School! Everything about them makes me want to meet them.

With the lawyer Kolbein, coming to Seattle, looking for his sister Greta, who he thinks is at the Bridal School, and falling for the beautiful Lenore. Wade always looking out for Abrianna, I expected him to also announce that he was in love with her.

I was left wanting to know more at the end of the book though, like what happened with Priam Welby? A very unlikable man from the beginning. And who committed the murders of the three men close to the Bridal School? Perhaps there will be another follow-up book with the answer to these questions in it. I would just like to know if I have figured it out right.


I received an ARC (advanced readers copy) from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.


Friday, December 12, 2014

Esther: Royal Beauty by Angela Hunt - my review

I finished reading Esther: Royal Beauty by Angela Hunt last night and was completely lost in the telling of this old story. I'm a big fan of Biblical fiction and this will now be on my list of favorites as such.

I have read the Biblical story of Esther and studied it at different times, but after reading this book I will never look at it quite the same again! Angela Hunt brings this old story back to life by letting two characters, Esther (Hadassah) and a eunuch by the name of Harbonah tell the story. I tremendously enjoyed reading this age old story from this perspective. Even though I knew this story, it was still a real page-turner as I read from the view point of Hadassah and Harbonah. It was so easy to love these two, as I read along, crying and laughing with them.


One of my favorite quotes from this book, about this time long since past, so easily fits the Christian life that I walk, today as well.

 We walked in it, traded in it, communicated in it, and did acts of kindness for it. To the casual observer, we might have looked like ordinary people, but we were not. About that, at least, Haman was right. 
 We were children of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and we served and invisible God, who remained close to us no matter where we lived. But our hearts did not -- should not -- belong to this world. 


I highly recommend this book to everyone who likes Biblical fiction.

I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.



Saturday, December 6, 2014

Longing for More by Timothy Willard - my review

Longing for More: Daily Reflections on Finding God in the Rhythms of Life by Timothy Willard is a fabulous devotional. With 52 chapters and a daily reading to lead to a closer walk with Jesus. Each day begins with a scripture, follows with an inspirational reading, and a daily prayer.
This would be a great book to start your day off with along with your morning coffee. I read through the entire book and loved it! Now I will go back and re-read it as a morning devotional. With chapters inculding Love, Hope, Courage, Work, Anxiety, Family, Pain, Disappointment, Shame, Calling, and so many more, all focused on scripture. Timothy Willard helps to take different situations and shows how to find God in each of them.

One of my favorite quotes from this book is...

Perhaps today you need to walk out into the fields, or the woods, or the mountains. Perhaps today you need to feel, to sense, some otherness--the otherness of "my Holy One." Take the the time and walk. Get off your phone. Close your laptop. Shut down the tablet. The Everlasting awaits.  

This is so true we need to shut down things of the world and listen for the voice of God.
 
I highly recommend this book to everyone who like me, is longing for more, it will help you to slow down, pause, reflect, and feel God's loving grace.

I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.


Friday, November 21, 2014

Starry Night by Debbie Macomber - my review

Starry Night by Debbie Macomber is an awesome book that will leave you wanting to see an Alaskan star-filled sky with the love of your life. I am a big fan of Debbie Macomber novels and nothing beats a great Christmas story.

Carrie is bored writing the same stories about the same social events and wants the chance to write something different. She jumps at the chance to find the author of the book Alone, Finn Dalton. The catch is, that no-one has been able to find him or get an interview with him.
Carrie takes on the challenge and finds herself in Alaska, meeting a dog by the name of Hennessy, as well as the elusive Finn. Two people as different as night and day, a fun-filled story is sure to follow.

A heart-warming Christmas story to get you into the mood. The perfect Christmas book to curl up with a cup of hot chocolate or coffee and enjoy.

I received a free copy of this book from LibraryThing in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.    


Monday, November 17, 2014

My Breaking Point, God's Turning Point by Ricky Texada - my review

In My Breaking Point, God's Turning Point: Experience God's Amazing Power to Restore,  Pastor Ricky Texada, tells the heartbreaking story of loosing his wife in a tragic accident. How God brought him through this devastating loss and showed him that he still had plans for his future. God revealed to him that Debra (his wife) had a choice to come back or remain with Jesus, and she chose to stay with Jesus. His story tells how God gives us beauty in the place of the ashes. The author lost his wife but God restored him with a love that he thought would never again happen, as well as the children that he wanted. Sometimes God's plan isn't the same as our plan for our lives but he loves us all and is always here for us.

I highly recommend this book. This is a great book for anyone who has faced a heartbreaking loss, to help remind you that God does love you and does see the pain you are going through. He isn't finished with you yet.  Keep God first and let him show you his plans for the future.


I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.  



Thursday, November 13, 2014

365 Moments of Peace for a Woman's Heart by Baker Publishing Group - my review

365 Moments of Peace for a Woman's Heart: Reflections on God's Gifts of Love, Hope, and Comfort by Baker Publishing Group is a beautiful book, one that feels nice in your hands. Looks and feels so soft, pretty and feminine also having a ribbon for bookmarking.

Filled with a year full of daily devotionals to calm and comfort. They are absolutely beautiful, with scripture, inspirations, and a prayer for each day. No I haven't read the complete book yet but have read a few of the devotionals and I love the peaceful filling they leave me with.

Today's could have actually been written for me personally.
The Title is - The Dark Before Daylight
directly underneath is scripture from Psalm 30:5
Then an inspirational that talks about being exhausted, and the situation seeming as dark as the night sky. Goes on to tell you to put your trust in God and rest while he handles the situation.
This is followed by another Bible verse - Psalm 30:11-12
There is also a prayer to the left of the page that reads...
"God, please calm my fears and give me rest. I want to trust you, Lord. Please release me from these worries so I can praise your matchless name. Amen"

This has a special meaning for me, after the very recent passing of a family member. Watching more family members that are suffering with cancer as they fight this battle with that terrible disease. I feel so helpless because there is nothing I can do to make it better for them. But this is a much needed reminder to give these problems to the One (God) who can help.


I love this little book of devotionals and look forward to reading each and every days entry. I  highly recommend this book. This would make a great gift for the ladies in your life. The design of the book gives you a peaceful feeling as well as the daily devotionals giving you that peace and comfort.


I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.    


Pain As A Starting Point by Kerry Kerr McAvoy - my review

Just at a time in my life that I needed this, I received an ARC (advanced readers copy) of Pain As A Starting Point by Kerry Kerr McAvoy.

Living with chronic pain on a daily basis and having so much emotional pain in my life, I feel almost like an expert on pain, both physical and emotional. The best physician I have found is GOD!

The author uses scripture to show the answers to some of life's tough questions. Such as, Where is God while I'm suffering? How do I trust in God through my difficult trials of life? She has done a fabulous job showing where God is through all of our struggles and how to find him. With daily devotionals. Questions to make you think. Optional reading of Bible verses to go along with each section. A daily discipline exercise and prayer end each section. Also some great play list for some (new for me) awesome music.

There are so many of the painful heartbreaking burdens that life gives us that I have either experienced personally or have watched family members go through. Through it all, as the book will show, God is there for us if we will turn to him and have faith.

One of my favorite quotes from this book is...
"In that moment, pain becomes a starting point and provides us an opportunity to see our desperate state and our need for God."

I highly recommend this book to everyone, for everyone I know suffers from some kind of pain. This is a book that I will be re-reading from time to time.
I received an ARC (advanced readers copy) of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the chance to read and review this book.


Tuesday, October 14, 2014

The 20th Christmas by Andrea Rodgers - my review

I just finished reading The 20th Christmas by Andrea Rodgers and have to tell you about it!
WOW! What a heartwarming inspirational story. I cried my way through this book as I could easily feel the emotions that Arianna felt when her son, Chase 22 months old, was first kidnapped right before Christmas. She keeps her faith that he is alive somewhere, that God is watching out for him, as she keeps praying to see him again. The author does a fabulous job with this story making you feel the emotions of each and everyone involved. As I tried to put myself in the position of each of these three ladies, Arianna, Lydia, and yes even Lacey the kidnapper, who has for years been homeless, suffering from mental illness, and has a substance abuse problem, my heart broke for all of them. And of course Chase and everyone else that was close to him in anyway.  Andrea Rodgers shows how God can make something beautiful come from something so tragic in this awesome story of faith, love, and forgiveness. An inspirational touching book that grabbed me from the first page.

I  highly recommend this book, stock up on kleenix, and allow plenty of time because it is one of those you want to finish in one sitting!

I received a free copy of this book from Ambassador International in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.



Saturday, October 11, 2014

Keepers of the Covenant by Lynn Austin - my review

Keepers of the Covenant by Lynn Austin is book 2 in the Restoration Chronicles, but is a good stand alone book. Bringing the Old Testament to life, as you read about how Haman got King Xerxes to sign a decree to annihilate all of Jews, and Queen Esther getting him to sign another decree.

The little crippled Edomite girl, Amina, who befriends the older Jewish woman, Hodaya, and finds she is has more in common with her than she first thought.

Then Ezra a quiet scholar and teacher of the law, wanting to take his family home, and leading the Jews back to Jerusalem from Babylon. This story comes to life as you meet his wife Devorah, their children, family, and friends and see how they live.

I loved my journey through these pages of the Old Testament, Lynn Austin has done a terrific job of making me feel as if I was right there taking part with them with her writing of this story. She has added some characters to help tell the story.  This is the first book I have read by this author but will not be the last, I have found a new favorite author!

At the end of the book she tells you where you can read the stories/verses that she has used in this book in your own Bible.

I  highly recommend this book to anyone who like to read Biblical stories.

I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.



   

Sunday, October 5, 2014

The King is Coming by Erwin W. Lutzer - my review

The King is Coming: Preparing to Meet Jesus by Erwin W. Lutzer tells about the end days and the return of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The author uses biblical scripture to discuss the rapture of the Church, the tribulation, the coming of Jesus, the Antichrist, the end of the world, and Heaven. Erwin Lutzer does a marvelous job of explaining his views on what the Bible tells us will happen in these last days and uses the scripture to back up what he says, so you can read it in the Bible for yourself.

One of my favorite quotes from this book is ...
"If you've been told that you have to donate money to go to heaven, you have not heard the gospel. If you've been told that you must make yourself deserving to go to heaven, that is not the gospel. Nor is it through baptism, your church attendance, or through the sacraments." 

And the last quote he uses in the book is from the Bible...
"You also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect." Luke 12:40 ESV

If you haven't accepted Jesus Christ as your savior, please do so, because our King is coming soon!!

I  highly recommend this book.

I received a free copy of this book from Moody Publishers in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.



Friday, September 26, 2014

Faith, Hope, Love, and a Whisk by Tori Winkelman - my review

Faith, Hope, Love, and a Whisk: Breakfast With The Savior by Tori Winkelman is going to quickly become one of my favorite cookbooks! I have never saw a cookbook like this one, it is both a devotional and cookbook together in one book. As I have read through the devotionals and looked at the yummy looking recipes I'm not sure what I want to try first. As a lover of bread pudding and blueberries I have to try the Lemon Blueberry Bread Pudding, the Peanut Butter French Toast Sandwiches also sound like a sure win for us. There are so many recipes that the author has included that I find myself wanting to try, and a devotional to go along with each recipe. So we can read a devotional, as we are cooking and waiting, and spend time in prayer with the Lord. You will truly have breakfast with the Savior with this devotional cookbook!

I recommend this book to anyone who loves the Lord and and cooking, this is the book for you, or a great gift for anyone you know like that.

I received an ARC (advanced readers copy) of this book from Ambassador International in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.  

Look for this on October 15, 2014



Mr Miracle by Debbie Macomber - my review

Mr Miracle by Debbie Macomber is a warmhearted Christmas book that  introduces Harry Mills, an angel that is sent to earth to help Addie straighten out her life and find love. Harry is so sure that he can handle everything on his own and he doesn't want to ask for help. Not even from his mentor, Celeste, another angel.  Little does he know he will be experiencing feelings, as humans do, for the first time.

Harry is teaching a literature class at college, with some interesting students, one of which is Addie who has returned home after 6 years. She volunteers to help out Erich, who has broken both wrists in a accident, so his mother who is a widow can go on a pre-planned cruise with Addie's mother who is also recently widowed. Addie and Erich have a past where she was heartbroken, how can she ever stand to be around him to help him out?  Then there is Andrew the war vet with his service dog Tommy, the ex-con Danny who is trying to make a new life after getting out of prison, Michelle the french teacher, along with some more colorful characters. This book is a short heart-warming feel-good Christmas story about making changes in life, finding love, happiness, and friendship.

I highly recommend this book.

I received an ARC (advanced readers copy) of this book from Random House and NetGallery in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.

Look for this on October 7, 2014


Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Portrait of a Powerful Last-Day Christian by David Garcia - my review

Portrait of a Powerful Last-Day Christian: Prophetic Insights for Successful End-time Living by David Garcia is an uplifting,encouraging, and inspirational book based on biblical scripture for Christians living in these troubling times. The author has designed this book to give encouragement to Christians during the end days, as he uses scripture reference to do so. He shows how to use God's word to overcome the fear that surrounds us all every day.  I enjoyed reading this book and the scriptures that were recommended, it is a book I will be returning to in order to re-read in the future.


I highly recommend this book.

I received an ARC (advanced readers copy) of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.



Thursday, September 18, 2014

Of God, Rattlesnakes, and Okra by J. Bennett Easterling - my review

I laughed and cried my way through Of God, Rattlesnakes, and Okra by  J. Bennett Easterling. The youngest son of a southern preacher tells about growing up as part of a poor family in the tiny community of Prospect, Mississippi. I enjoyed reading of his memories of a different time, when people (children included) worked hard and were were ready for bed at night. No one had time to say they were bored, there was to much that needed to be done. If children today could spend a week or even a day in that life, they might not be so quick to become bored because they couldn't find anything to do. I laughed as I read about Grannies sweet love and dobbers, yes that is how it was done before Gerber created baby food, I just never knew there was a name for it.

I highly recommend this book, about a time that has since passed but we can learn a lot from.

I received an ARC (advanced readers copy) of this book from LibraryThing in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.




Saturday, September 6, 2014

Elvis Sightings by Ricardo Sanchez - my review

Elvis Sightings (An Elvis Sightings Mystery)  by Ricardo Sanchez is about a private investigator named Floyd, who is a Lifestyle Elvis, not an Elvis impersonator. Yes he dresses in sequined jumpsuits like Elvis wore and is often mistaken for an impersonator, but is quick to let you know the difference. He has spent a great amount of time in the past searching for Elvis, as a close friend is a big Elvis fan also who doesn't believe that Elvis is dead. After another tip that Elvis may be alive and living under an assumed name in Kresge, Wyoming, he is off on the hunt again. What he finds there, is a sidekick who wants to help him with the search, and who has a very strange story to tell himself. Leaving Floyd wondering what kind of place is this town, especially after meeting some of the occupants. The author has created a great group of characters who live in Kresge. One of my favorites is Goliath, a small person, who runs the bar. As you visit Kresge with Floyd, you will also be wandering what are the secrets this town is trying to hide, and what kind of place is this. There is a lot of Elvis trivia throughout the book for Elvis fans, you might learn something about Elvis that you didn't know.

I received an ARC (advanced readers copy) of this book from NetGallery in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.

Look for this book on September 29,  2014


Thursday, September 4, 2014

Heaven Touching Earth by James Stuart Bell - my review

I just finished reading Heaven Touching Earth by James Stuart Bell, I absolutely LOVED it!  It is filled with true stories of miracles. Basically each chapter is a testimony by a different person who has experienced a miracle, angels helping out, or some type of Heavenly encounter that can not otherwise be explained. A car that drives itself, an Angel that prevents a wreck, and pulls another out of a wreck, prays for a married couple who are having problems. A woman who was expected to die from uterine cancer but goes on to have three more children! These are just some of the stories that you will read about. Forty-three different accounts of miracles, Angels,and/or Heavenly encounters!   I tremendously enjoy hearing or reading testimonies of God still working miracles today. Some people may find it hard to believe all the different stories that the author and others have shared, but I know that such things do still happen.  

I have had experiences of my own with miracles or things that others would have a hard time believing. So yes I am believer! Jesus is still performing miracles today and God is sending his Angels to help out where needed.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes to hear (read) testimonies of miracles and Angels. Or anyone who is curious about these things. Would also make a great gift.

I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.

Look for this book on September 16, 2014



Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Beyond the Rapture by Jennette Green - my review

Beyond the Rapture by Jennette Green was a very thought provoking book which I enjoyed tremendously. It starts out in the future with Isola scared and trying to find a place to hide. As she tries to find what is left of Kay's house to see if she can find the answers to what is going on. Kay had known the truth all along, before she disappeared with all of the others, her life had proven it. She finds her diary and bible.

The story goes back and forth between now (in the reading of the diary) and the future (beyond the rapture). The author uses a lot of bible scripture in this book which is about the end times. It is not a preachy type book but does relay a great story of love, gangs, persecution, etc. I couldn't put this down as I anxiously turned the pages to see what each day would bring.

I highly recommend this book.

I received a free copy of this book from Net Gallery in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.





 

Monday, August 18, 2014

Huckleberry Christmas by Jennifer Beckstrand - my review

Huckleberry Christmas by Jennifer Beckstrand

What a joyful book, as Mammi Anna sets in for her latest matchmaking schemes. Beth a widow, who was married to an emotionally abusive man, is now determined to make a life for herself and her little redheaded cutie son Toby on her own. She doesn't want to take a chance on love again.  Tyler is in love with her, he makes bacon pancakes for her and purposes, but she turns him down but offers to help him find a good wife. I laughed my way through this book as Beth learns to trust God and to love again. Mammi Anna and Dawdi Felty are grandparents that everyone would love to have. I could almost hear Felty singing as I turned the pages of this book and had the feeling that I was also there on Huckleberry Hill.

I received a free copy of this book from Kensington Books and Net Gallery in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.

Look for this on October 7 2014


Saturday, August 9, 2014

The River by Beverly Lewis - my review

I am a huge fan of Beverly Lewis and her Amish books. Was very excited to get an ARC of The River by Beverly Lewis. Two sisters Tilly and Ruth have left their Amish roots behind to live fancy as their Amish family calls it. They have also left bad memories behind as well. Then they recieve a call from their brother inviting them to come home for their parents anniversary celebration and they decide to go. Tilly leaves her twin daughters with her English husband while she takes this trip with her sister, not sure how her family will react to them or her English husband - none of which they have yet met.   There seems to be a lot of unresolved issues for both sisters as they go home and the past meets the present.  Secrets have been kept hidden over the years can they be forgiven?  One of my favorite bible verses that is quoted in this book has to do with forgiveness.

 “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: but if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” Matthew 6:14-15 KJV

I read this in one day , as I found it to be a page-turner that I couldn't lay down. I highly recommend this book if you like reading a feel-good book.

I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House Publishing in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.

Look for this book on September 2, 2014


Monday, August 4, 2014

Elvis Presley: A Southern Life by Joel Williamson - my review

 Elvis Presley: A Southern Life by Joel Williamson covers it all. His early life in Tupelo, moving to Memphis, the school days when he was made fun of or ignored by many. The day he walked in to Sun Studio to create a record for his Moma and was discovered. It covers all the time in between the birth and death of Elvis. Elvis had a beautiful voice and moves that many came to see and hear. It got so bad that he could not leave home without being surrounded by bodyguards. I can't imagine not being able to go to the movies or a grocery store without being swamped by people.  Even though many envied his life, it had to have been a hard life. He is still famous today all these years later. Graceland and Memphis see several fans/visitors daily. This was very interesting reading. The author has put a lot of research into this book, all listed at the end of the book. I recommend it to Elvis fans, would make a nice addition to your collections and to anyone wanting to learn more about the man, Elvis Presley.


I received an ARC (advanced readers copy) of this book from Net Gallery in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.


Wednesday, July 30, 2014

Immediate Obedience by Rod Loy - my review

Immediate Obedience: The Adventure of Tuning in to God by Rod Loy is about becoming more sensitive to hearing God speaking to you and being obedient by listening and obeying his commands. I enjoyed reading the numerous stories that others have shared in this book of times they have heard God speaking to them and their encouraging outcomes. Yes some people will think you are nuts when you say God speaks to you. But what a wonderful blessing when he tells you do something and you follow through with it, giving him all the glory! At the end of each chapter are questions to give you something to thing about. There is a 90 day challenge at the end of the book to help you learn to open your spiritual ears to what God is trying to say to you. I will be taking the author's challenge over the next 90 days.  

I received a free copy of this book from Assemblies of God and Net Gallery in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.


Monday, July 28, 2014

Family Inheritance by Terri Ann Leidich - my review

Family Inheritance by Terri Ann Leidich is a heartbreaking story of three sisters struggling through their adult life as a result of the childhood abuse they suffered.  Their Mother is dying,  they all return home and are reunited. With the help of each other they decide they deserve so much better and set about to make changes in their lives. This is an emotional book which I had to stop several times to wipe the tears before I could read more. I enjoyed reading this and found it to be a real page-turner, I look forward to more by this author.

My favorite quote from the book is...
Maybe her childhood and her past were like any other family inheritance. It all depended on what she did with it.

I received a free copy of this book from Net Gallery in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.

Look for this book on October 1, 2014



Saturday, July 26, 2014

Killer Ambition by Marcia Clark - my review

I finished Killer Ambition by Marcia Clark last night and so enjoyed getting to spend some time in the courtroom with Rachel Knight!

A kidnapping goes wrong and two young bodies are found murdered. Rachel Knight and Bailey Keller find who the guilty party is, then unlike the other books this one has a full trial. I enjoyed Dorian on the stand and found myself laughing out loud at her testimony to the defense. I love all the characters in the Rachel Knight series - even the ones you love to hate! I will be following the Rachel Knight series as I am now hooked!

I highly recommend this book if you like thrillers, suspense and mystery. I received a free copy of this book from Mulholland Books and Net Gallery in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.



Thursday, July 24, 2014

Guilt by Degrees by Marcia Clark - my review

Guilt by Degrees by Marcia Clark - Another great suspense filled thriller!  Rachel Knight and Bailey Keller search for the killer of a homeless man, no leads , no witnesses, with some video evidence, it still isn’t clear who stabbed the victim, Simon Bayer. The video shows Simon grabbing a woman just before he is stabbed, who turns out to be Lilah, who was was married to his brother Zake, a police officer who was murdered in his home two years before. Now the cases seem to be tied together. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough to see what was going to happen next. I am fast becoming a fan of Rachel Knight and her friends. Already reaching for the next book in the series - Killer Ambition .

I highly recommend this book if you like thrillers, suspense and mystery. I received a free copy of this book from Mulholland Books and Net Gallery in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.


Monday, July 21, 2014

Love Letters by Debbie Macomber - my review

Love Letters by Debbie Macomber is the 3rd in the Rose Harbor series and set in Cedar Cove. I had previously read the others in this series as well as the Cedar Cove series being a huge Debbie Macomber fan. But this would be good as a stand alone book too, as the stories of each visiting guest are new with each book.

Jo Marie Rose owner of the Rose Harbor Inn, a bed and breakfast is still grieving over the lose of her husband after 2 years. But she is becoming very close and extremely curious about the handyman Mark Taylor.

Her guests include Maggie and Roy Porter who are are visiting the inn for their first vacation alone since the birth of the their two sons. They are trying to renew their marriage.

The next guest is Ellie Reynolds, a young girl who has come to meet Tom a young man she has met and fell in love with through the internet. He also has a surprise in store for her.

I love visiting with Jo Marie, Rover, and Mark at Rose Harbor Inn. A magical healing place where visitors of Cedar Cove drop in from time to time. I look forward to the next book and what will happen at the B&B.

I received an ARC (advanced readers copy) of this book from LibraryThing and Random House Publishing in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.
 

Friday, July 18, 2014

Guilt by Association by Marcia Clark - my review

 Guilt by Association by Marcia Clark is a fast paced mystery/detective novel.

The book starts out with Knight winning a case in court and going to her office with fellow D.A.'s and friends Toni and Jake for a drink.  Jake leaves first followed by Toni, with Rachel staying longer. As she leaves to walk home to the Biltmore, 6 blocks from the Criminal Courts Building,  she hears sirens. She follows to see what is happening when she sees all the police, firemen, and ambulances in front of a sleazy motel. When she sees Jake on one of the gurneys she is shocked. What is he doing there and what has happened?  The next morning gets worse as it appears to be a murder-suicide. Jake and a young boy, whose nude picture was found in Jake's pocket. Rachel didn't know Jake that well outside of work but she finds this news unbelievable!   Jake's cases are divided up and Rachel is given the rape case of Susan Densmore the 15 year-old daughter of a prominent doctor.  I quickly found myself turning pages as I followed D.A. Rachel Knight  and detective Bailey Keller trying to find the rapist of Susan, and the killer of Jake and Kit - the case that Knight was told to stay away from.  With several twists and turns that left me guessing as to who did what to whom. I have fast become a fan of the Rachel Knight series.

I highly recommend this book if you like thrillers, suspense and mystery. I received a free copy of this book from Mulholland Books and Net Gallery in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.




Wednesday, July 16, 2014

Watch Your Back by Richard A. Deyo - my review

I jumped at the chance to read Watch Your Back by Richard A. Deyo. There isn't much I haven't read trying to understand more about back pain, such as degenerative disc, herniated disc, and spinal stenosis.

A very informative book for someone just diagnosed with some type of back pain to read. The author tells how over the past 20 years in the U.S. back problems have risen and how they have been treated.   Explains the different treatments that have been tried over the years, such as MRI's CT scans, TENS, surgeries, narcotics, physical therapy. And how they have or haven't help. I could understand most of what was written but at times felt that it was a bit to techy for non medical personnel to understand.

I received an ARC (advanced readers copy) of this book from Net Gallery in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.  



Thursday, July 10, 2014

Living In The Pink by Sharon Tubbs - my review

I just finished reading Living In The Pink by Sharon Tubbs. I enjoyed this book of short stories and found I could relate to many of the characters. Reading this you will find someone in the characters that you have either lived through their story or know someone that has.  There are 15 short stories, that tell of jealousy, divorce, infidelity, abuse, addictions, lack of faith, and more.  Each chapter is a story of different church members but all of the stories tie together. This book would be great for a women's group. At the end of each chapter is a section "Think About It" which gives you questions about what you have read and bible verses to read along with it. It is a great thought-provoking book, what would you do in a given situation, how would you try to help a friend or family member, or what would you do if it it was you? The author shows in these short stories how no one is perfect.  I LOVED this book! I highly recommend it, it is an awesome thought-provoking book!

I received a free copy of this book from Moody Publishers in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.


Friday, July 4, 2014

Cop Town: A Novel by Karin Slaughter - my review

I received an ARC of Cop Town: A Novel by Karin Slaughter and am now hooked on an author I had not previously read!  An Awesome suspense-filled thrilling book!

Cop Town is set in Atlanta in the 70's and is full of everything that era was racism, homophobia, and sexism. The story is told through the eyes of the newest female officer Kate Murphy, her female partner Maggie Lawson, and the shooter.  Maggie's uncle - Terry, and brother - Jimmy, are also cops. Terry is abusive of both alcohol and women and is racist as are most of his cop friends.

This was a real page turner, that I got hooked on from the first page. Kept me guessing until the very end on who the shooter was. Although there is some language that some may not like it is a great suspense-filled thrilling mystery that I highly recommend.

I received an ARC of this book from Random House Publishing in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.


   

Monday, June 30, 2014

The Competition by Marcia Clark - my review

WOW! I absolutely loved The Competition by Marcia Clark!  If you like suspense, mystery, a thriller this is a book you don't want to miss.

It starts out with a school shooting which was hard for me to read at first , as the author does a great job with description. I felt as if I were there in the school as this was happening. But I did keep reading as I wanted to see who was the psycho doing this.Rachel Knight who is a LA prosecutor, and her best friend Bailey Keller who is a LAPD detective, team up to solve this case. It appears that the killers have shot each other in the school library. But it doesn't take long after Rachel and Bailey question students and teachers that the gunmen are still at large. Rachel and Bailey work great together as a team.

There are several twists in this book, where I thought I had figured out who the shooters were only to find out I was wrong. I enjoyed the suspense and found myself up late at night reading because I didn't want to stop reading.  

This is the 4th book in the Rachel Knight series, but a great stand alone book as well. I haven't read the others in the series but they are on my reading list now. I will be going back and reading them in order now as I am hooked on this series.

I highly recommend this book if you like thrillers, suspense and mystery. You will be able to get it on July 8 2014. I received an ARC of this book from Mulholland Books and Net Gallery in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.


Thursday, June 19, 2014

Radically Red: Dare To Live The Words Of Christ by Brooke Keith - my review

I received an ARC of Radically Red: Dare To Live The Words of Christ by Brooke Keith. I have read through the book and totally enjoyed it. It is written as a daily devotional, starting with the words of Jesus in red, followed by a heartwarming devotion, with questions and answers at the end of each day, along with a daily dare. You can read the book as I did straight through or as a daily devotional. Would also make an excellent group study.

I love the red theme throughout the book it makes you reflect on Jesus and his love for all.
I will be going back and re-reading this now as a daily devotion.  I am looking forward to it.

I highly recommend this book. I received a free copy of this book from NetGallery in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.



Wednesday, June 18, 2014

50 Things You Need to Know about Heaven by Dr. John Hart - my review

I received a copy of 50 Things You Need to Know about Heaven by Dr. John Hart, a very easy to read book full of questions and answers that also give you reference for further Bible study for the answers to the questions so many have about Heaven.

Some of the questions that you will find answered are.
What will Heaven look like?
Where is Heaven?
What will we do in Heaven?
Are there marriages and families in Heaven?
Will we eat and drink in Heaven?
What will we do in Heaven?
Do Christians go to Heaven immediately after they die?
Do people in Heaven know what is happening on earth?
How can I be sure I'm going to Heaven?

This is a book you can read from cover to cover, just look through and read the answers to your questions, or use it as a study guide along with your Bible, to learn more about the answers to Heaven.

I liked that the author doesn't merely answer your questions but also gives Bible scripture under each section (question and answer) for further reference that you can personally read for yourself.  

I recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn more about Heaven, or would make a great gift.

I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.



Tuesday, June 17, 2014

Abraham and Sarah by Roberta Kells Dorr - my review

I enjoyed Abraham and Sarah by Roberta Kells Dorr it is fiction based on the biblical story. Reading the old bible story written in novel form really brings this old story to life in ways I haven't read it before. I was able to get a picture of how things might have been.

The work the women would have done. How extremely hard it must have been for Sarah to tell her husband to be with another woman so he could have a son. How heartbreaking it must have been for Hagar to watch this son calling Sarah his mother. I found myself feeling sad for both of these women.

I have to say I wasn't fond of Sarah being rescued from the pagan temple or that Hagar was the daughter of Pharaoh as I have never read that anywhere in the Bible. But do understand that the author used some liberties to write her story.

It is is a remarkable story all the same, which I do recommend just keep in mind if you choose to read that it is fiction based on biblical history.

I received a free copy of this book from Moody Publishers in exchange for my honest review rather it be good or bad. Thank you.




 

Thursday, June 12, 2014

Billy Graham: Candid Conversations With a Public Man by David Frost - my review

Just finished reading Billy Graham: Candid Conversations With a Public Man by David Frost.

I learned some interesting things about Reverend Billy Graham that I didn't know.

Some of the questions that are answered in the book...

Learn how and when he accepted Christ as his personal savior.
How long did it take him to ask Ruth out for the first date?
And how long before he fell in love with her?
What do the Graham Family have on Christmas morning as part of their tradition?
If the Lord hadn't chosen for him to be an evangelist what line of work would Reverend Graham have went into?
Why does God allow pain and suffering?
What temptations if any does the devil use on Billy Graham?
How would you describe Heaven?
And Hell?
Do you think there will turn out to be life on other planets?
Plus many more questions and answers.

I was amazed at some of Reverend Billy Graham's answers. A very thought provoking book. I enjoyed it tremendously.


I received an ARC of this from NetGallery in exchange for my review rather it be good or bad.




Monday, June 9, 2014

Healing Stone by Brock Booher - my review

I enjoyed reading Healing Stone by Brock Booher, set in 1955 Cumberland County, Kentucky. The author brought the picture of this time and place to life in the pages of this book.

 Ezekiel Stone Molony, abandoned in a graveyard as a baby. Found by the sheriff, crying with with a note to give him to the family of Billy & Ada Molony. He doesn't know any more about his birth parents.

 Stone, a 17 year old boy finds he has the gift to heal after he runs over his his dog Rusty with the mowing machine on the tractor.

As he digs into his past, trying to learn who his birth parents are and where does the gift of healing come from, he witnesses corruption, racism, and violence. Leading a somewhat sheltered life up to this point he learns a lot about the these things.   Full of suspense, mystery, some spirituality, fiction with some history thrown in. I cried at some parts, made me really think at other parts, as to how I would handle such a situation.

This was a book I didn't want to put down until finished, then was disappointed that I had came to the end.

I highly recommend this book to all my family and friends looking for an interesting suspenseful read.








Tuesday, June 3, 2014

The Prediction by Darren Sugrue - My Review

WOW! The Prediction by Darren Sugrue is an engaging suspense filled book that kept me awake reading way into the night! I did not want to lay my NOOK down, wanting to see what was going to happen next.
It took a lot of twists and turns that I wasn't expecting, with a surprising ending.

I look forward to reading more by this author in the future.

I received a free copy of this from the author in exchange for my review rather it be good or bad.




Tuesday, May 27, 2014

In the Field of Grace - my review

I so enjoyed reading In the Field of Grace by Tessa Afshar. Based on the biblical account of Ruth. The author has based the story on the Bible account of the book of Ruth and adds what she thinks might have happened to really bring one of my favorite bible stories to life.

It starts out with telling us what might have been Boaz' history before Ruth. About Ruth's family and how they treated her. How Naomi and Ruth met, their trip to Bethlehem. The things that they may have had happen to them on this trip.
Goes on to tell us how Ruth and Boaz met and brings to life the night on the threshing floor.

I was so drawn into this book that I didn't want to lay it down at all. As I read I felt that I was there with them thousands of years ago when all of this did take place.

One of my favorite quotes from the book Boaz said to Ruth - "What’s a little dung compared to the riches of a good harvest? If you want blessing, you must accept the manure that accompanies it."

I highly recommend this book to anyone that would like to read a good story based on biblical history.

I received an advanced copy of this from the publisher in exchange for my review rather it be good or bad.



Friday, May 23, 2014

Child of Mine - My Review

I loved Child of Mine by Beverly Lewis and David Lewis! I have been a fan of Beverly Lewis for quite sometime. This is the first I have read anything by David Lewis but look forward to more by both authors.

This was not the usual Amish type book that I am used to by Beverly Lewis. Although we do see a bit of the Amish in this story through the nanny, Laura.  
A heart wrenching story of love and loss. A true test of forgiveness, when Kelly's baby is stolen and sold on the black market.  I fell in love with the characters, especially nine year old Nattie. I laughed and cried as I read this story, it really made me feel what was happening. 

This took several unexpected twists and turns to keep me guessing on the outcome. I did like the ending but won't talk to much here about it. 

I highly recommend this book, it is a very interesting story. 

I received an advanced copy of this from the publisher in exchange for my review rather it be good or bad. 



Tuesday, May 20, 2014

How to Start a Riot: Support Your Local Jesus Revolution - My Review

I just finished reading  How to Start a Riot: Support Your Local Jesus Revolution by Jonathan Storment.

First let me say I loved the title and cover, may end up with people reading about Jesus looking for something else. (Great idea)

The author, who is a pastor, uses the book of Acts to try and explain what it means to be a child of God. To explain how Christians and the Church should live today.

The Church is not a building where you go for an hour on Sunday, put a few dollars in the plate and you are good for another week. It is so very much more than that, as is being a Christian as well.

I would recommend this book to anyone wanting to study more about the book of Acts.

I received an advanced copy of this in exchange for my review rather it be good or bad.


Monday, March 31, 2014

My Review of - The Last Bride by Beverly Lewis

I enjoyed The Last Bride by Beverly Lewis. It is book # 5 in the Hickory Hollow Series, but also a stand alone book. It had me hooked from page one until the end, as all of her books on the Amish do.

Tessie Miller & Marcus King elope when her father is against them getting married. Her Father has someone else in mind for her to marry.  They come back and live as singles thinking they can change his mind. Then when a tragedy happens, she is left to face her parents and the Amish Church who all think she needs to confess her sins before the entire Church.

Tessie's sister - Mandy (and husband Sylvan) longs for a baby, as so many of her family and friends have.

Beverly Lewis does an awesome job in writing about the Amish/Mennonites. I have learned a lot about their traditions and believes through her books. The Amish put the will of God in everything they do. Because of the independence I have always had some of their traditions are hard for me to relate too, but I can understand why they believe that way.

I highly recommend this book if you like books about Amish.

I received an advanced copy of this in exchange for my review rather it be good or bad.



My Review of - Between Heaven And Earth: Finding Hope, Courage, and Passion Through a Fresh Vision of Heaven by Steve Berger

I finished reading Between Heaven And Earth: Finding Hope, Courage, and Passion Through a Fresh Vision of Heaven by Steve Berger who is a Pastor at Grace Chapel in Leipers Fork, TN.

Steve & Sarah Berger's 19 year old son was in a fatal car accident August 2009. Some will say at a time like this they have LOST a loved one, they don't. They KNOW where Josiah is, alive and in the arms of God!! What a beautiful way to look at death. I know none of us want to be without our loved ones, but how great is it to know that they are in the arms of God!!!

In the book Between Heaven and Earth the author uses Bible scripture to show a beautiful vision of Heaven. He uses scripture to show what IS in Heaven & what ISN'T in Heaven.

He shows how to accept Jesus as your Lord & Saviour if you haven't already done so.
He uses the apostle Paul to show how we should strive to live our lives in order to make Heaven our home.

I highly recommend this book.

I received an advanced copy of this in exchange for my review rather it be good or bad.



People as I look around at the things that are taking place in the word today, I can see that it won't be long until Jesus calls us home. I pray that you are all ready!


 

Tuesday, January 28, 2014

My Review of - Pleasure of His Company : A Journey to Intimate Friendship With God by Dutch Sheets

I enjoyed reading Pleasure of His Company: A Journey to Intimate Friendship With God by Dutch Sheets tremendously. It has 30 chapters full of ideas to bring you closer to God.

Yes I LOVE the idea of God being the life of the Heaven's Party and dancing at the return of a lost soul.
I too want Jesus to be my friend and walk with me daily, sharing in the good and the bad. Laughing and crying along me.

This book will help you get to know the Lord on a more intimate level. In this fast paced world we live in we need to take time to slow down and hear what God has to say. The author gives you ideas on how to do this and steps to set up your own place to meet with God.  Several bible verses are mentioned to help you in this journey to get closer.

Also some humor thrown in, which is always good. I would like to add that I too like tomato and mayonnaise sandwiches, yes it is a southern thing.

On a more serious note if you too would like a more intimate walk with God I definitely recommend this book. Watch for it! Will be available January 2014!

I received an advanced copy of this in exchange for my review rather it be good or bad.