My Book Review Blog

Amish Prayers by Beverly Lewis

2011-08-15T15:54:00.002-05:00

Amish Prayers: Heartfelt Expressions of Humility, Gratitude and Devotion by Beverly Lewis is a compilation of prayers that have been used by the Amish for generations. What makes this book unique is that the prayers are translated from German to English, so that it is now available for all to enjoy. The prayers are organized in categories so it is very easy to turn to specific types of prayers, such as Prayers for Strength, Prayers for Praise, or Prayers for Humility. I really enjoyed this book. I used it as an addition to my daily devotional. There were some days that were rather stressful and it was nice to turn to one of the Prayers for Strength and just read and then pray.

Voices of The Faithful devotional book compiled by Beth Moore

2011-07-31T21:21:00.004-05:00

"Voices of The Faithful" is a 365 day devotional book by Beth Moore that tells encouraging stories from Christians serving on the mission field around the world. Each month has a theme (Prayer, God's Grace, Persecution, Contentment are a few of the monthly themes) with the daily devotional revolving around that theme. Each daily devotion is written by a missionary and it also includes a scripture to read and a short prayer at the end. I really, really enjoyed reading through this book. It made me so much more aware of the struggles of being a missionary. It also gave me an opportunity each day to stop and pray for the specific missionary.

I have a close friend that is currently serving as a missionary in Canada. There is so much joy in the work that she is doing, but every day she has to walk on faith. Sometimes she never knows if there will be enough money at the end of the month to cover her expenses, but every month the Lord provides. I am really glad that Beth Moore put together this devotional book because it really opens the eyes of the readers to what missionaries really have to go through, especially those serving in high-risk areas.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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.

Book Review: "The Final Summit" by Andy Andrews

2011-04-18T22:04:00.001-05:00

"The Final Summit" is the newest book by Andy Andrews. While it is a sequel to his book "The Traveler's Gift", it can easily be read and enjoyed without having read the first book.

In the first book "The Traveler's Gift", you would have met David Ponder at the lowest point in his life. He lost his job and his drive and desire to live. He gets an opportunity to travel in time (after he is unconscious after a traffic accident) to meet with 7 historical figures (King Soloman, Harry Truman, Anne Frank, Abraham Lincoln, Colonel Joshua Chamberlain, Christopher Columbus, and the archangel Gabriel) who give him seven decisions that are the key to personal success. He would then use those seven decisions to rebuild his wealth and become a very successful businessman. This basic idea of the story is that God, at different points in history, would allow selected people, called travelers, to travel back in time to learn secrets of success from important and influential people in history.

In "The Final Summit" we continue the story of David Ponder, 28 years later. We meet David again at a low point in his life. He has recently lost his wife and is questioning his will to live. The archangel Gabriel returns to David to take him to the upcoming traveler summit conference. This is to be the final summit conference and David is to be the leader. The summit is being convened to determine the fate of the world. The members of the summit must answer this question: "What does humanity need to do, individually and collectively, to restore itself to the pathway toward successful civilization?"

The book's cover describes it best:

"This is humanity's last chance. Centuries of greed, pride, and hate have sent mankind hurtling toward disaster, and far from its original purpose. There is only one solution that can reset the compass and right the ship--and that answer is 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 solve the ominous challenge."

David Ponder has the brightest minds available to help him discover the answer. Is the answer hope, wisdom, or something else? Will David and his team be able to solve this question and save the world? The two word answer might surprise you.

The author draws you in the summit conference as the characters race to find the right answer. Some of the most influential people in history are available to David Ponder and every answer they present sounds like it is the answer. But is it? This book is a page turner as you continue to read and try to answer this question yourself.

I'm not going to give away the answer--you'll have to read the book yourself! I will say that while you might think it will be some ultra spiritual answer it is a really practical answer that can and should be applied to anyone's life. I will admit that while I was surprised that I could not figure out the answer until the end of the book, the answer itself did not surprise me.

I really enjoyed reading "The Final Summit". While it was a sequel (I had not read the first book), I found that the author weaved enough of the first book in so a reader starting with "The Final Summit" would be able to enjoy the book . One thing I like about Andy Andrews is his gift of weaving a fictional story with a thought provoking message. His stories are interesting and enjoyable to read and you also finish the book inspired to live a better life.

Book Review: "Max On Life: Answers and Insights to Your Most Important Questions" by Max Lucado

2011-04-18T13:27:00.007-05:00

"Max on Life: Answers and Insights to Your Most Important Questions" is Max Lucado's newest book. The book was written to answer the many different questions that Max Lucado has received through the years. "Max writes about the role of prayer, the purpose of pain, and the reason for our ultimate hope. He responds to the day-to-day questions--parenting quandaries, financial challenges, difficult relationships--as well as to the profound: Is God really listening?" There are 172 questions organized in seven sections (Hope, Hurt, Help, Him/Her, Home, Haves/Have-Nots, and Hereafter). "Max on Life" is definitely different from the other Lucado books I have read. His books typically cover just one topic in which he is very thorough. This book ranges in topics and each answer is about a page to a page and a half. It is written in a way that you can read a few questions at a time and even read them out of order.

I really like Max's honesty on a lot of the questions. He does a great job of answering each question fairly specifically while still leaving the answer to apply broadly to a larger group of people. The majority of the questions have to deal with faith and Christianity as well as family issues. Some of the questions are answered with Max's opinion and from his experience as a pastor while others, specifically dealing with faith issues, are backed up with scriptural references. I really liked the topical index included in the back of the book. It really makes looking up a specific type of question really easy. This is more like a reference book and would be a great resource for individuals as well as ministers and counselors. It is definitely worth having in your home library and will be a valuable resource for families.

A Rush of Wings by Kristen Heizmann

2011-02-02T13:33:00.006-06:00

Noelle St. Clair is running for her life. Fragamented images keep coming to her mind and causing her to have panic attacks. All she knows to do is to keep running. She is leaving behind a life of wealth and luxury in order to feel safe. Her running ends when she comes to a small tourist town in the Rocky Mountains. Looking for a place to stay, she comes to a ranch owned by Rick Spencer. The beauty and quietness of the area makes her want to stay there forever. If only the fragmented images would stop, she could really be safe and start a new life.

Noelle starts her new life being entertained, and wooed, by Rick's playboy brother, Morgan. She starts to paint again and even starts to sell some of her work. She also spends her time with the horses, riding the land, and really beginning to enjoy her new life. That is until her past begins to catch up with her. Who can she trust? Where should she go? All she wants is to be safe. How can she confront her past and save her life?

The author keeps you on pins and needles as she slowly gives you glimpses of Noelles past. While you might be able to piece parts of the story together and you think you have it all figured out, the author gives you another twist. Also, when you think you have discovered the truth about Noelle's past, you realize that Noelle is still putting together the pieces and you continue reading to see how she is going to figure things out. And the best part, with all the difficulties in Noelle's past, you watch as she begins to trust again. Not only in people, but in God.

My only warning is to make sure you have plenty to time to read this book in one sitting. It is so suspenful and good, you will not want to put it down!!

This book was sent to me by Bethany House Publishers as part of their book review program. I was sent a free copy of this book to review. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions expressed are my own.

Hatteras Girl By Alice Wisler

2011-01-25T09:38:00.005-06:00

Jackie is a writer for a local magazine that highlights local buisnesses but has dreams of owning her own bed and breakfast. Not just any B&B, but the Bailey House. Jackie, and her best friend Minnie, grew up visiting the Bailey House and spending time with the owners. It became their favorite place to visit, of course the lemon cookies and raspberry soda was a bonus that was served by Mrs. Bailey and made their visit even more special.

The characters in this book became so real. They struggled with the same problems that many people struggle with. While Jackie has her heart set on owning the Bailey house, her family has other plans. They want her to get married. This leads to lots of blind dates for Jackie. Minnie lost her husband in a tragic boating accident and is left to raise their little boy, Zane, by himself. Minnie also had to put her mother in a nursing home. Her mother is confined to a wheel chair and can barely speak.

This leads to an interesting story of Jackie finally finding a way to accomplish her dreams (and maybe her family's too!). We also watch as Minnie grieves the loss of her husband, but slowly begins to heal. This is a very endearing story that makes you love the characters and has you cheering them on along the way.

This book was sent to me by Bethany House Publishers as part of their book review program. I was sent a free copy of this book to review. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions expressed are my own.

Where Hearts are Free by Golden Parsons

2010-12-16T06:00:00.001-06:00

The story line for "Where Hearts are Free" begins in 1687 Philadelphia. Philippe Clavel is an indentured servant to the Barrington family. He immigrated from France and his family jewels were stolen on the trip over. He and his younger brother have to become indentured servants to pay for their passage over. The Barrington's only daughter, Bridget, and Philippe have become close friends over the years that Philippe has worked for them. They have become so close that Bridget has fallen in love with Philippe. As you can expect, Bridget's parents are not pleased about this and offer to pay off Philippe's last few weeks of service early if he will leave quietly and have no contact with their daughter. This leaves Bridget heartbroken and she finally accepts to consider courting a man her parents think is more suitable for her, who also happens to be wealthy and much older. This is where the book gets interesting. Edward Moorehead wants to marry Bridget, but not for love. It is to keep her quiet. Edward realizes that Bridget witnessed him murder a man many years ago when Bridget was a child. Bridget is not yet aware that Edward is the murder. As the plot thickens, Philippe learns who Edward truly is and has to decide if he will resuce the woman he loves.

I love to read fiction books. It is more like light reading for me. It is enjoyable without having to process deep information, like nonfiction books usually require of me. I started reading "Where Hearts are Free" by Golden Parsons on a Saturday afternoon. Needless to say, I stayed up really late finishing the book. I just could not put it down. It is more of a suspenseful, romantic fiction book. It is a realy page turner. This is the third book in a series by this author. For me, what sets apart the good authors from the great authors is how they handle books in a series. Parsons wrote a great book that you can enjoy without having to read the other books in this series first in order to follow the story line. (And believe me, I have read my share of books, where I spent more time trying to figure out the characters because they were introduced in a previous book).

This book was sent to me by Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their book review program. I was sent a free copy of this book to review. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions expressed are my own.

Within My Heart by Tamera Alexander

2010-11-28T15:12:00.000-06:00

Rachel Boyd is a widow and mother to two young boys. She spends her days trying to maintain the ranch that was her late husbands dream. The reality is that keeping the ranch is becoming more difficult every day. When not working on the ranch, she helps her good friends, Ben and Lyda Mullins, at their general store. When Ben becomes ill, Rachel is forced to trust the new physician in town, Dr. Rand Brookston. Rand has always admired Rachel, especially her gift with medicine. He can never get to know her better as she as always avoided him. Now that he is treating Ben, will he get the chance to earn her trust and her love? Rachel is an amazing woman who is strong willed and determined. When faced with financial woes of running the ranch, she becomes business savvy to try to keep the ranch afloat. But will her distrust of doctors keep her from getting a chance to love again? Read this book and you'll find out.

Forgiveness, personal struggles, learning to trust, and second chances. There are a lot of different themes that are covered in Tamera Alexander's book "Within My Heart", but forgiveness and a second chance at life are central to the story line. This was a great story that kept you reading to find out what happened at the end.

This book is the last book in a series by Tamera Alexander. This was the first book of this author that I have read and it definitely will not be my last. I am usually hesitant to read a book in a series without having read the other books due to the possibility of not being able to follow the story. The author does an amazing job of introducing the characters so you really grasp the story line. You can easily read this book and enjoy it without having read the other books in the series.

The Lord's Prayer by R.T. Kendall

2010-10-11T06:50:00.001-05:00

The Lord's Prayer is the most well known prayer by Christians. It is a prayer that most of us have memorized and say regularly, but do we really know what it means? R.T. Kendall's book "The Lord's Prayer: Insight and Inspiration to Draw You Closer to Him" does really good job of explaining why the Lord's Prayer is a perfect prayer, when to pray it, and the purpose of it. I really like that he spent a chapter on each verse of the prayer, going into a lot of detail.

I did not grow up regularly saying the Lord's Prayer, but I was familar with the words. This book really brought a lot of insight into not only this specific prayer, but in how God wants us to pray. Jesus gave the disciples this prayer when they asked him to show them how to pray. It was "to show them how to speak and listen to the Father". While we can pray the Lord's Prayer verbatim, it is also a model or pattern prayer to use in our everday prayers. This book will really transform how you pray. Not just when you say the Lord's Prayer, but in how you pray everyday.

This book was sent to me by Bethany House Publishers as part of their book review program. I was sent a free copy of this book to review. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions expressed are my own.

"Captivating:Unveiling the Mystery of a Woman's Soul" by John and Stasi Eldredge

2010-09-25T18:54:00.002-05:00

This has been a book I had been wanting to read for years. I had heard good reviews from John Eldridge's book "Wild at Heart" and was looking forward to this book. I started reading this book a couple of months ago, and it took me a while to work my way through it. Each chapter was slow to read. This is not a book that can be easily read in a weekend. It took me a couple of months to get through this book. Overall, this book was ok. The book is inteded to look at a woman's heart and soul and tried to address some of the issues that women deal with. Most women have a lot of baggage that we carry around due to our life experiences. I would even dare say that many women have been hurt to a point that they think that can not be used for God. This book tries to show women how the past hurts effect us and how we really are beautiful and loved by God.

There were are few issues that I had with this book. There is an overuse of movie quotes. To make a point or to help the reader have a better picture of what the authors are trying to say, they use a scene from a well known movie. This really loses its effect on the book. Some of these scenes are from movies that do not reflect Christian values. I think the authors should have used either women from the Bible or real life stories. This might have helped illustrate their point better. Also, they seem to take random scriptures out of context.

I'm sure this book will be very helpful for some women. Personally, I think this book has a lot of flaws and it really effects the readability of this book. I was really disappointed with this book and will probably not read any other books by the authors.

This book was sent to me by Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their book review program. I was sent a free copy of this book to review. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions expressed are my own.

The Butterfly Effect by Andy Andrews

2010-09-07T21:32:00.003-05:00

"The Butterfly Effect" is the newest book out by Andy Andrews. It is a short gift book but filled with a powerful story. It will probably take you ten minutes to read, but it will be a book you will want to read over and over. The book got it's name from the theory by Edward Lorenz that "A butterfly could flap its winds and set molecules of air in motion, which would move other molecules of air, in turn moving more molecules of air--eventually capable of starting a hurricane on the other side of the planet." Applying this theory to humans, what would be the outcome of decisions that we make? Is it possible that the small decisions that we make could greatly impact the life of someone else? Is it possible that these decisions could change the world?

"The Butterfly Effect" tells real life stories that changed the course of history. It shows how the decisions we make really do matter. My favorite quote from the book really hits home. "Every single thing you do matters. You have been created as one of a kind. You have been created in order to make a difference. You have within you the power to change the world."

"The Butterfly Effect" is available today, Wednesday, September 7! This is the perfect book to give as gifts and perfect to leave on your coffee table. This book could change your life and ultimately change the world.

This book was sent to me by Thomas Nelson Publisher as part of their book review program. I was sent a free copy of this book to review. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions expressed are my own.

Love Is A Flame Compiled by James Stuart Bell

2010-09-05T18:04:00.004-05:00

Love is a Flame is a compiled book of stories of marriage and how love can be rekindled in a marriage even after the most difficult situations. We all have this concept that if we love each other that marriage will be easy. If only marriage was that simple. The truth is marriage is hard and there are many disappointments that go along with the vow to love and cherish. You might never have expected your spouse to be a workaholic or to have that affair. You probably didn't expect your spouse to struggle with sexual sin or to simply not communicate his/her feelings. How about unreasonable expecations you have for your spouse or expecting your spouse to meet all your needs? How do you restore a marriage after you've been hurt by your spouse? Is it even possible? James Stuart Bell tells the stories of couples who have been through some difficult situations and had to deal with some major hurts. Most importantly, he tells the story of how that couple was able to restore their marriage and rekindle the love. I think that part is so important for people to know. That it is possible. It might not be easy, but the marriage can be saved. And what happens after restoration is a marriage that is even stronger and even better than before.

This is a great book of stories of the real struggles that real couples face. At the end of each story, the author ends with a few words of his own. I really think that this is a great book for all married couples to read and probably to read on a regular basis. There is so much wisdom that can be gained from hearing of other's struggles and how they overcame. Most importantly, I think this book will really give encouragement and hope to marriages that are currently struggling and possibly thinking of the "D" word.

This book was sent to me by Bethany House Publishers as part of their book review program. I was sent a free copy of this book to review. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions expressed are my own.

No More Christian Nice Girl by Paul Coughlin & Jennifer Degler

2010-09-05T17:34:00.003-05:00

"No More Christian Nice Girl: When Just Being Nice-Instead of Good- Hurts You, Your Family, and Your Friends" bu Paul Coughlin & Jennifer D. Degler, Ph.D.

Christian women can really get in a habit of being too nice. I think there is a stigma that we have to be all and do all for others or else we are just not being a good Christian. We get in a rut of feeling obligated to say "yes" to anyone that needs help and serve on every committee at church. What happens is we get over worked and over stressed. This ends up hurting not only ourselves, but our family and close relationships.

There is a way out of the "People Pleasing" rut. This book offers some good and practical advice to first see why we Christian women feel these obligations to "be nice" and then offers some good suggestions. I really like that they tell stories of a Christian Nice Girl and a Christian Good Girl. This really helps the reader to see themselves in the Christian Nice Girl's pleasing habits and learn to make changes. This book does a great job of really showing how setting boundaries and our expectations of ourselves can help us really live out our Christian faith and still be a great witness for Christ.

I think this is a good starter book for women who are pleasers. I would suggest that if you want further reading on this topic to consider reading Kevin Leman's book "Women Who Try To Hard" and Cloud and Townsend's book "Boundaries". These books really focus on how to set boundaries (and why they are necessary) and to learn to be a positive pleaser.

This book was sent to me by Bethany House Publishers as part of their book review program. I was sent a free copy to review. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinion expressed is my own.

She Walks In Beauty by Siri Mitchell

2010-07-29T20:50:00.004-05:00

Set during New York's gilded age, "She Walks in Beauty" shows the pressure young women faced to meet family expectations of marrying well. They not only had to learn appropriate social etiquette, but also secret fan gestures, proper dance steps, and wear that torturous corset. This story follows Clara Carter as she is forced into the social season a year early just so she can try to win the hand of one of the wealthiest heirs. Clara had dreams of going to college and had secretly hoped to skip the social season all together.

Amazingly, Clara goes from a shy girl to a beautiful, confident woman. She becomes the societies hottest debutante and has a really good shot at securing a proposal from the most sought after bachelor. But Clara is also a romantic, and struggles with following her family's demands or following her heart.

This book will make you think about true beauty. During this period of time, there was so much focus on looking outwardly beautiful even if there were health consequences. This is eerily similar to the period of time that we are living in now. It is amazing what we will do to look and feel beautify when it is inner beauty that really should define us.

This was one of the best fiction books that I have read in awhile. Once I started reading, I could not put the book down. I will definitely be reading more of Siri Mitchell's books.

This book was sent to me by Bethany House Publishers as part of their book review program. I was sent a free copy of this book to review. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions expressed are my own.

Somewhere to Belong by Judith Miller

2010-07-14T21:49:00.004-05:00

Somewhere to Belong is about two girls who become fast friends. Berta Schumacher has been moved to Main Amana, a cooperative living, simple lifestyle community by her parents. She had lived a life of luxury in Chicago and it is a complete shock to have to live in a village with extreme structure. Johanna Ilg has been raised her entire life in Main Amana. The rules and the structure is all that she has known. Until she discovers a secret about her life, that makes her question who she really is and if Amana is where she really belongs.

This was a very interesting book. The author did a great job of developing the characters and really getting you into the book. I really enjoyed the story line but really did not like the setting (Main Amana). It is supposed to be a cooperative living, utopian, type village. It makes you think it is Amish, but there are some differences from the Amish communities. A family is assigned a living space/apartment, with several families living in one house. Every person is assigned a duty that requires them to work 7 days a week. All of this is decided by the "Bruderrat" community elders. There is a communal eating house where men sit separately from the women. It is said that it is better to be single than married, even though people can marry. It is such a controlled environment, it almost seems cultish.

Outside of the whole utopian community, I really enjoyed the stories of Berti and Johanna. This was my first book to read by Judith Miller. Somewhere to Belong is in a series called Daughters of Amana. I will probably not read any of these books.

This book was sent to me by Bethany House Publishers as part of their book review program. I was sent a free copy of this book to review.

Sixteen Brides by Stephanie Grace Wilson

2010-07-11T19:51:00.004-05:00

Sixteen women head to Plum Grove, Nebraska with hopes of free land and a fresh start. What they find out is they have been tricked and are actually to be brides for the local bachelors. Six of the women decide to show the con-artist that they are self-sufficient and refuse to be claimed by a man. These women begin the journey of a lifetime. This was a wonderful story of hope, forgiveness, love, and new beginnings. The author does a great job of intertwinning the story and lives of the six main characters. You begin to truly admire each of the women as the band together to create a new life for themselves. While homesteading is hard work, they come up with a creative plan to buy four plots of land to homestead and put one house that sits on a corner of each plot. This way they share the work and bounty and create a new life. This was a great book with a great storyline.

This book was sent to me by Bethany House Publishers as part of their book review program. I was sent a free copy of this book to review.

Hearts Awakening by Delia Parr

2010-07-05T15:34:00.003-05:00

Elvira (Ellie) Kilmer is almost homeless and in much need of a job. When an opportunity comes to serve as housekeeper for a local widower, Jackson Smith, and his two young sons, she welcomes the opportunity. When Jackson offers an very unusual proposal to Ellie, she must decide if she is willing to marry without love in order to have a place to live and the chance to raise Jackson's sons. Hearts Awakening is an interesting story with some unexpected twists. The books draws you in right from the beginning and leads you through a wonderful story of two people who are so different yet so much alike. You won't be disappointed in this book.

This book was sent to me by Bethany House Publishers as part of their book review program. I was sent a free copy of this book to review.

Hunter's Moon by Don Hoesel

2010-06-09T17:53:00.005-05:00

If you are looking for a novel full of suspense, then Don Hoesel's "Hunter's Moon" is a must read for you. The main character, CJ Baxter, returns to his family home in Adelia, NY after being away for seventeen years. He returns only because his grandfather, his favorite family member, has passed away.

When CJ left Adelia, he vowed to never return and he carried with him a deep family secret. Since leaving, he has become a successful novelist with all his stories coming from his own life. As he returns to Adelia, CJ not only has to deal with his grandfather's funeral, he has to decide what he is going to do with this secret he has been carrying. He knows that if the secret is revealed, it could potentially bring down his entire family and ruin his brother's chance at winning a US Senate seat. What happens next will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Hunter's Moon was an excellent read. This was my first book to read by Don Hoesel and it will not be my last. The author spends a lot of time on character development in those first few chapters which makes the book a little hard to get into and keep up with all the different people. But once you make it through those chapters, the book will pull you into the story and you will be anxiously reading to find out what happens next.

This book was sent to me by Bethany House Publishers as part of their book review blogger program. I received a free copy of this book to review.

Beguiled by Deeanne Gist and J. Mark Bertrand

2010-04-15T06:30:00.004-05:00

Rylee Monroe is a dog walker in the historic district of Charleston. When a string of burglaries begins to target some of the wealthy families of Charleston, the only thing the victims have in common is Rylee as their dog walker. Rylee, now a suspect, tries to clear her name. She teams up with Logan Woods, a reporter following the case who hopes to get it published as a true-crime book. As they try to discover who is stealing from her clients, it become obvious that Rylee seems to be at the center of everything. So, is Rylee the thief or a victim like her clients? You'll have to read the book to find out!!

It didn't take long to get pulled into this mystery and make me not want to put the book down. While I began to piece together who did it, the book definitely offered many surprises that I wasn't expecting. The story is full of lots of twists and turns and definitely a good read.

This book was sent to me by Bethany House Publishers as part of their book review blogger program. I received a free copy of this book to review.

Plain Paradise by Beth Wiseman

2010-04-07T06:33:00.000-05:00

Linda is a 17 year old Amish girl growing up in Lancaster County. When a strange "English" woman shows up and upsets her parents, Linda is curious who this woman is. Linda receives the most shocking news when she finds out that she was adopted and the "English" woman, Josephine, is her biological mother. Josie was 17 when she gave up her baby for adoption to an Amish family. She returns to Lancaster County to hopefully have a relationship with her daughter.

Plain Paradise covers the sensitive subject of adoption and the effect on both families. Linda's parents, Abe and Mary Ellen, struggle with the fear that a relationship with Josie could effect their relationship with Linda. They are also concerned that Josie could influence Linda to leave the Amish community. As Linda's "mom", Mary Ellen struggles with having to share her daughter. This has to be tough on an adopted mother and the author really goes into the inner struggle that Mary Ellen faces.

Josie is dealing with all the feelings of giving a baby up for adoption, reconnecting with her daughter, and also fighting a terminal illness. Linda is having to balance having a relationship with her parents and now with Josie. She is also having to deal with the possibility of losing Josie now that Josie is a part of her life.

While this is a book #4 in the Daughters of Promise series, it can be read without having read the previous books. I really like this about the author. I haven't read the other books, but was able to really enjoy this book and not feel like I was missing anything. I actually would not have known this was a book in a series had I not fully read the title. Because this book was really good, I will probably get the previous books in this series. I really enjoyed reading about the Amish way of life.

Never Say Never by Lisa Wingate

2010-04-01T06:30:00.003-05:00

Sixty-nine year old Donetta Bradford is ready for the trip of her life. She and her two best friends, Imajene and Lucy were going on a cruise. This was the most excitement they've ever had in their lives. Or so they thought. Hurricaine Glorietta was headed for the Mexican coastline until it quickly changes course headed directly for where Donetta and the girls are headed to meet their cruise ship. This gets them caught in the evacuation traffic and begins their unexpected, but thrilling adventure. They meet twenty-seven year old Kai Miller when they fill up for gas who later on rescues them when their van runs out of gas. This is the beginning of a suspenseful and entertaining story.

This book was a very entertaining read. Once I got into the story, I did not want to put the book down. It was also interesting in the fact that the story is told by Donetta and Kai. Each chapter switches back and forth between the two main characters. This took a little getting used to, but really allowed more character development for Donetta and Kai. They both had a lot of background information that really effects who they are now as a person and it was interesting to get a full picture of who they are.

This book was sent to me by Bethany House Publishers as part of their book review blogger program. I received a free copy of this book to review.

Book Review: Sense and Sensiblity by Jane Austen (Insight Editions)

2010-03-17T05:15:00.002-05:00

I love Jane Austen stories. I have watched all the movies, but I've never read any of her books! So, I was excited to get to read Sense and Sensibility. This book is part of Bethany House's Insight Editions. These editions include extra tid-bits of information in the margins. These notes included historical and cultural details and facts about Jane Austen's life. While I enjoyed reading the story, I really enjoyed all these extra notes.

Sense and Sensibility revolves around the main characters, Elinor and Marianne Dashwood. When their father dies, the family estate passes on to the half-brother John. This leaves the the Dashwood sisters, their mom and younger sister will little money and no home. They move to a new cottage on a distant relatives property. The story revolves around the two sisters, with opposite personalities, struggle to find love.

This book was sent to me by Bethany House Publishers as part of their book review blogger program. I received a free copy of this book to review.

Book Review: The Clouds Roll Away by Sibella Giorello

2010-03-17T05:00:00.001-05:00

The Clouds Roll Away by Sibella Giorello is the second book in her Raleigh Harmon Series. I have not read the other books in this series, but the author did a good job of including some background information so a new reader would not be lost.

This book is about an FBI Agent, Raleigh Harmon, who is transferred back to her hometown to investigate a hate crime. Raleigh is like everyone of us. She is struggling with some real life issues. She has a difficult boss, a fickle boyfriend, and a complicated relationship with her mother. As she is investigating the crime, she discovers much more about the victims and a lot about herself. This book is full of suspense and is a real page turner once you get into the story.

It was a little difficult at first to get into the book and the plot. At times I felt that I was missing information, but it was due to not having read the previous book. The author did do a good job of filling in these gaps and once I got into the middle of the plot, I really enjoyed the book.

Book Review: The Silent Governess by Julie Klassen

2010-03-10T18:40:00.000-06:00

This is my first book to read by author Julie Klassen and it will not be my last!! The author has a great way of writing that helps you get into the story and not want to put the book down.

The main character, Olivia Keene, runs away from home fearing that she has committed a terrible crime. As she is fleeing, she comes upon a large estate where a celebration is going on. As she is looking in on the celebration, the overhears a secret. This secret begins an interesting twist in her life. She is forced to become employed on the staff of Lord Bradley's estate and keep the secret she overheard. This also helps her keep her own secret. She eventually becomes the governess to the children. This book has so many twists and secrets that you will not want to put it down. The ending was definitely a surprise. I don't want to spoil the ending or give you any hints. You'll need to read the book for yourself. I know you will find it as interesting as I did. A bonus with the book is discussion questions which would be great for book clubs.

This book was sent to me by Bethany House Publishers as part of their book review blogger program. I received a free copy of this book to review.

Book Review: Take Your Best Shot by Austin Gutwein

2010-01-25T00:23:00.000-06:00

What can one person do? There are many people that feel that one person is not able to make an impact. That one person is not capable of changing the world. Mother Teresa says it best, "If you can't feed a hundred people, then feed just one." Austin Gutwein did just that. Austin (who is currently twelve years old), the author of the book "Take Your Best Shot" details the video that changed his life. Austin was nine years old when he learned the story of Maggie, a nine year old girl in Zambia, Africa that was being raised by her great-grandmother. She had lost her entire family to AIDS. This video of Maggie rocked Austin's world and he knew that he had to do something. It was suggested that he use his favorite sport, basketball, as a way to help Maggie. But how could basketball raise money? Shooting free-throws....2,057 free-throws (the number of children orphaned during a school day) all shot by nine year old Austin.

This was the beginning of Hoops of Hope, a charity started by Austin to raise money for AIDS. After raising $3,000 the first year, Austin decided to get his friends to also shoot free-throws to raise money for AIDS. That second year $35,000 was raised. Hopes for Hope has been going strong for six years and has raised over $1 Million dollars!! Hopes for Hope has not only helped orphan children, but has funded schools, and medical testing labs/clinics to help keep parents alive longer and help prevent children from becoming orphans.

Austin's book "Take Your Best Shot" chronicles the start of his charity but most importantly challenges youth (and adults) to make a difference. This book was not only inspiring, but really made me reflect on my life. What am I doing to make a difference?

All it takes is one person. Will that one person be you?

To learn more about Hoops of Hope click here.

Book Review: What's He Really Thinking? by Paula Rinehart

2009-09-20T18:11:00.000-05:00

It's something all women ask themselves on a regular basis. "What is he REALLY thinking?" Most of the time we feel as though we have no clue what is going on in the mind of the men in our lives. I know most of us have really tried to figure them out. Men and women were created differently. That's obvious. We communicate differently (or don't communicate at all). Sometimes it seems as if we speak a different language. These differences and also my desire to try to figure these men out, is what made me really enjoy Paula Rinehart's newest book "What's He REALLY Thinking? How to be a Relational Genius with the Man in Your Life". Paula has many years of counseling and has really been able to explain what these men are thinking.

I learned a lot by reading this book. There were several aspects that I learned the most about. One is that a man's upbringing, life experiences, and relationships create his "story". This story shapes who he is --the good and the not so good. This story is why he reacts certain ways to certain situations or stressors. This story explains why he has certain fears and insecurities. But as you look at the man's story you begin to realize that you also have a story that interacts with his story. Your story effects how you see him, think about him, talk to him, and what you expect of him. You have to understand your story, which includes your upbringing, fears, insecurities, and life experiences and understand how if effects you. Understanding your story helps you learn to deal with your expectations and fears. When you understand your story, you can better understand how it effects your relationship with the men in your life.

Another aspect I learned is that while it is really important to understand what he is thinking, the next most important part is what you do with this knowledge. What a woman does and says can either build up or tear down a man. This knowledge helps a woman to understand the importance of a man needing respect, the importance of you being his biggest cheerleader and that he knows you need him. And doing the opposite of respect, disrespect or contempt, can tear a man down really fast.

So, if you're trying to figure out what in the world the men in your life is thinking, consider reading this book. It will really help open your eyes and mind to what he is really thinking. But remember, that this book will also cause you to look inwardly at your life. It will make to consider your actions and your words and how they can be helpful or hurtful in your relationships with your man.

Book Review: Fearless by Max Lucado

2009-09-08T09:45:00.000-05:00

I have read several of Max Lucado's books in the past, but his newest book, Fearless, is by far the best I have ever read. We all have fears that hold us back from really living our life. We have fears of making the right decision, fears of the economy, fears of death, fears of not being good enough, fears of mistakes and the list goes on and on. Max Lucado breaks this book into chapters dealing each dealing with a specific type of fear. He explains why we have this fear but, most importantly, how we can overcome our fears. By keeping our eyes on God, we can overcome our fear and be given a peace. This book really covers how we should trust God in all situations.

The chapters are as follows:

1. Why Are We Afraid?

2. Fear of Not Mattering

3. Fear of Disappointing God

4. Fear of Running Out

5. Fear of Not Protecting My Kids

6. Fear of Overwhelming Challenges

7. Fear of Worst Case Scenarios

8. Fear of Violence

9. Fear of the Coming Winter

10. Fear of Life's Final Moments

11. Fear of What's Next

12. Fear That God Is Not Read

13. Fear of Global Calamity

14. Fear of God Geting Out of My Box

15. William's Psalm

My favorite chapters are 1 and 6. Chapter 1 discuses one of my favorite scriptures: Matthew 8:23-27 - Jesus Calming the Storm. This section of scripture really speaks to me about why we should not be afraid when storms come in our life. We know WHO is in control. We have seen his miracles and we know he keeps his word when he tells us that he will get us to the other side--no matter what happens on the boat ride. Chapter 6 talked about the fear of overwhelming challenges. In this chapter, Max Lucado tells us the importance of keeping our eyes on the "Pilot". In this chapter, Max uses the scripture from Matthew 14: 22-32--Jesus Walks on Water. This is another storm the disciples had to go through, and this time Jesus was not with them. Jesus walks on the water to them and Peter asks that he may come to Jesus on the water. You know the story, as soon as Peter started walking on the water he became afraid and began to sink. Jesus reached out for Peter's hand and caught him.

Chapter 6 talks about the importance of keeping our gaze on Jesus during our storms. When we keep our eyes on the "Pilot"--Jesus--the storm may not end, but we know that the pilot will always be in control of the situation. The storm becomes much more easier to face and we are given a peace about the ending. There were a few quotes from the book that I also want to share with you.

"We never expect to see him (Jesus) in a storm. But it is in storms that he does his finest work, for it is in storms that he has our keenest attention". (Pg. 70)

"Whether or not storms come, we cannot choose. But where we stare during a storm, that we can". (Pg. 72)

"Feed your fears, and your faith will starve.

Feed your faith, and your fears will". (Pg. 74)

Fearless was an inspiring book. Each chapter really spoke to me and helped me realize the fears that I have in my life. But most importantly, this book helped to realize that I really need to be giving these fears to God. This book is a must read and a book that I will read again and again.

Fearless by Max Lucado is being released today, Tuesday, September 8, 2009!!!

Book Review: Put Your Dream To The Test by John C. Maxwell

2009-07-09T18:48:00.000-05:00

“Put Your Dream to the Test: 10 Questions to Help You See it and Seize it”

Have you ever had a dream for your life? Are you currently living out your dream? These two questions are answered in John C Maxwell’s newest book “Put Your Dream to the Test: 10 Questions to Help You See it and Seize it”. This is a very well written book that helps you remember that dream that you have always had and how to “put it to the test” and get it accomplished. By asking yourself the 10 questions, you are able to clarify your dream and start on the path to fulfilling that dream.

John C Maxwell’s 10 Questions to Help You See and Seize Your Dream:

The Ownership Question: Is My Dream Really My Dream?
The Clarity Question: Do I Clearly See My Dream?
The Reality Question: Am I Depending on Factors within My Control to Achieve My Dream?
The Passion Question: Does my Dream Compel Me to Follow It?
The Pathway Question: Do I Have A Strategy to Reach My Dream?
The People Question: Have I Included the People I Need to Realize My Dream?
The Cost Question: Am I Willing to Pay the Price for My Dream?
The Tenacity Question: Am I Moving Closer to My Dream?
The Fulfillment Question: Does Working toward My Dream Bring Satisfaction?
The Significance Question: Does My Dream Benefit Others?

I really believe that the first question is the most important. Is your dream really yours? Many times we are living out someone else’s dream for our life. If you answer that question in the affirmative, then you begin going through the rest of the questions and “testing” your dream. Each chapter covers one question and it also includes a real-life story that is relevant that that section. Also, at the end of each chapter that are questions you can ask yourself to see if you are on track.

Overall, this will be one of my favorite books to read again and again. John C. Maxwell has written so many great books on leadership, but this is my personal favorite.

Book Review: The Noticer by Andy Andrews

2009-04-27T09:36:00.000-05:00

His name was Jones. Not Mr. Jones, just Jones. If you had the opportunity to meet Jones, you would never forget him. He had a way of making a significant impact on your life. He always seemed to come around when you were at your lowest. Life was difficult and you were not sure how to keep going. But then you met Jones. He called himself a "noticer", because he noticed things that others overlooked. He noticed "things about situations and people that produce perspective. That's what most folks lack--perspective--a broader view".

Perspective--it's about how you look at things--how you look at life. That is what I learned from reading this book. No matter how bad things look, it was all about HOW I looked at things. "The Noticer" is an amazing story of how one man changed a community. He helped many people look at their lives differently. Jones helped Andy who was 23, homeless, and parentless. He helped Andy find perspective and it changed his life. Jones helped a couple find perspective which helped them save their marriage. He helped an older widow, who felt her life had been lived and was finished, find perspective that her life was just starting and that even she could make a huge impact in people's lives. Jones helped so many people. He touched many lives.

"The Noticer" by Andy Andrews is one of the best books I have ever read. The book could not have come at a better time for me to read, as I gained perspective. Amazing, inspirational, encouraging are just a few of the many words that could be used to describe this book. This is a book that I will read again and again. This is a book that EVERYONE should have and read.

"The Noticer" by Andy Andrews will be available to buy tomorrow, Tuesday, April 28, 2009. Go pick up a copy for yourself. You will be inspired by this book.

Book Review: The Great Eight by Scott Hamilton

2009-03-29T18:50:00.000-05:00

I had the opportunity to read Scott Hamilton's book "The Great Eight: How to Be Happy (even when you have every reason to be miserable)". I had seen this book on the shelves of our local Christian bookstore and had been wanting to read it. I have always been a fan of Scott Hamilton's skating and I was really excited to learn more about his life. While the book is not an autobiography, Scott does talk about his life experiences. He has had many rough times in his life, but he has chosen to be happy. He lists 8 lessons (or keys) that he has learned to be really happy. In each lesson he includes many examples of his life and also how you can apply the lesson to your life. Since Scott is a figure skater, each lesson uses skating as an example. While each lesson does seem like it would be common sense, when you really think about it, you wonder why have I not been doing this?

What I really liked most about this book is that we will ALL face difficult times in our lives and it is how we deal with it that will impact us the most. We can either learn to be happy (in spite of the difficult circumstances) or allow the difficult times to rule (and ruin) our lives.

Scott had every reason to be down on life. He had a mysterious childhood illness that every doctor had given up on him and sent him home to die. He was constantly picked on because he was so small and so sickly. Skating changed his life. After he started skating, he started to get well and his mystery illness disappeared. Skating became his passion and he even won a gold medal in the Olympics! While he had many ups and downs in life, his biggest battle came when he was diagnosed with testicular cancer. He fought the battle and won and then was hit again a few years later with a brain tumor. He had every reason to be disappointed and to wallow in self-pity and he did get to a point where he was living "in fear of the next calamity that would strike" him. His turning point came after hearing a thirteen-year old cancer survivor speak at a conference. This girl, Shawna Culp, made a statement that changed his life. She said "The worst thing that ever happened to me is cancer. The best thing that ever happened to me is cancer." From that day on, Scott began to look at his "curses" to be blessings. He wrote this book in an effort to share with us how he found happiness and how you can find it too.