God's Many Voices has become a loved book to me for it's beautiful reminder of being aware of listening for God's voice in my every day life.
I reallyGod's Many Voices has become a loved book to me for it's beautiful reminder of being aware of listening for God's voice in my every day life.
I really liked how the author made this book so personal and shared so much of her own journey in listening for God. It really felt like sharing with a friend over coffee.
With so much going on around us, it can be really difficult to just be quiet and still. We can be focusing on all the demands of our time or past hurts instead of seeking solitude or community with God.
This is a wonderful book that has a permanant place on my book shelf. I will be re-reading it as I gained so much from it!
*This book was provided to me by the author. I received a copy of this book to review but I was not financially compensated in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and are based on my observations while reading this book. ...more
This is a wonderful illustrated Bible that has 40 stories about how God has shown His power and presence in people's lives.
I absolutely love the illusThis is a wonderful illustrated Bible that has 40 stories about how God has shown His power and presence in people's lives.
I absolutely love the illustrations in this Bible! They are really well done and would definitely hold a child's attention. They held my attention! :) :
This Bible has high quality semi-glossy paper inside and this was something else I really liked! It feels very nice in your hands and would be easy for little hands to turn the pages. It also makes the colors of the illustrations pop.
I really liked the stories that were chosen. It reminded me that God was and is working in His people's lives. He is with us and cares.Each and every page is filled with wonderful pictures that draw you into the Bible stories. I really enjoyed reading this. It is definitely a Bible that children would love and understand. I highly recommend this Bible and give it 5 out of 5 stars.
*This Bible was provided to me by I Read With Audra. I received a copy of this book to review but I was not financially compensated in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and are based on my observations while reading this book....more
This is the second book in the Murphy, North Carolina series, however, I was never lost or wondering what was happening. I did read the first book (whThis is the second book in the Murphy, North Carolina series, however, I was never lost or wondering what was happening. I did read the first book (which I recommend you do, too!) but Carol did a great job in making this a stand-alone book. I am a huge fan of all Carol's books and this story added to my devotion as a fan of her work.
Andrea has lost so much as both her parents have died in a car accident and now she finds herself alone and trying to cope with the fact that she will not see her parents again - leaving so much unsaid and not being able to get away to their country home in Murphy alone with her father as they did so many times throughout the years. After the funeral, she decides to retreat to this home that holds so many memories.
The peace and quiet she so longs for is interrupted by a series of horrible events that makes her question everything she thought she understood about her parent's accident and is also making her question whether she really knew the type of man her father was.
Her next door neighbor in Murphy is her old boyfriend, Bryce. He ended their relationship in a bad way and she's not excited to see him. Her father was like a father to him so he has been trying to help out in the upkeep of the Murphy home. When Andrea shows up, she tries to distance herself from this man but with all the threats coming at her, it's not always easy.
I really enjoyed the mysterious story line of this book. I'm always wondering exactly who is behind the bad situations because Carol writes a great mystery. I also like how she combines the romantic parts of the story without over-whelming the mystery part of it. I always love a mystery so I really enjoy that this is the main theme of this book.
I highly recommend this book (as I do with all Carol's books) because it's a wonderful story with characters you'll remember long after you read the last page. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me by the author. I received a copy of this book to review but I was not financially compensated in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and are based on my observations while reading this book. ...more
This is a really heart-wrenching story about a family whose lives are turned upside down when their teenage daughter, Hannah, becomes addicted to drugThis is a really heart-wrenching story about a family whose lives are turned upside down when their teenage daughter, Hannah, becomes addicted to drugs.
Like a lot of families, they thought they were leading a fairly normal life and were happy for the most part. When their daughter started acted moody and withdrawn, they weren't sure how to handle it and they didn't realize what was going on for a time. This story is told from the viewpoint of both Susan (the mother) and Hannah (the daughter). It's interesting to see how they were both feeling about things as they were going through this.
There isn't an over night solution to a drug problem, especially when ecstasy and psychedelics are involved. It's a process and I realized that it's not just the addict who has to heal - it's the family. This is something that affects everyone in the family in very profound ways.
This is a raw memoir that isn't easy to read but it's definitely eye-opening. This book does use some foul language, so be aware of that. I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me by BookSparks. I received a copy of this book to review but I was not financially compensated in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and are based on my observations while reading this book....more
This is a wonderful devotional filled with 365 days of really great devotions as well as Scripture and prayer.
This devotional focuses on the fruit ofThis is a wonderful devotional filled with 365 days of really great devotions as well as Scripture and prayer.
This devotional focuses on the fruit of the Spirit - allowing the Spirit to work through us in God's timing and purpose. Each day focuses on being patient, faithful, having self-control, being gentle, kind, loving, or joyful. Of finding peace through God in working to have the fruits of the Spirit in our life. I love that she says that we need to continue our journey even when we aren't these things - when we have the bad days, we start again, and ask God to help us.
Each day starts with a Scripture and then a thoughtful, personal story from Kim that I really resonated with. It was nice how she was so honest and open about her own Christian journey and then showing us, through Scripture, how we can gain a deeper relationship with God. At the end of the devotion, there's a short prayer that helps us to focus on what we learned through the Scripture and devotional for that day.
This devotional will definitely help you focus each morning on getting into the Word and is a great way to then get into your Bible reading. I liked so much how she focused on really putting the fruits of the Spirit to work in our life, but ultimately, surrendering to God and having joy and peace in the process. I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it. I give it 5 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me by Worthy Inspired. I received a copy of this book to review but I was not financially compensated in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and are based on my observations while reading this book...more
This book is heart-breaking, humorous, but mainly it's inspiring as the author takes us on her journey of life, living with the after affects of contrThis book is heart-breaking, humorous, but mainly it's inspiring as the author takes us on her journey of life, living with the after affects of contracting polio at the tender age of three.
I'm old enough to remember people in my life who were living with the affects of polio. I'm also young enough to be one of the blessed that received the vaccination as a child so polio was never something I ever worried about. I think this memoir is so important to educate people about what it was like before we had some of these medical break-throughs.
Francine takes us through her life, from being a small child getting sick and being put into a hospital ward with many other children, without her parents, for six months, to navigating through adulthood. One of the things that make this book extra enjoyable is all the photographs that she includes in her book. I love being able to put a face to a name and seeing all her photos really brings the book alive.
She also doesn't hold back in sharing about her life - the highs and the lows. Her dilemmas, at times, of dealing with "her little leg" (as she calls it) and coming to terms with her complex and often difficult relationship with her mother. We are made aware of the more difficult things that people who are disabled have to deal with. However, Francine never gives the impression that we need to feel sorry for her, nor does she want accolades for being brave.
I really enjoyed this book and came away having a much deeper understanding of what polio did to those who contracted it and have to deal with the after effects of it. I give it 5 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me by Book Sparks. I received a copy of this book to review but I was not financially compensated in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and are based on my observations while reading this book....more
The first thing that drew me into this book was the author's eloquent writing. She wastes no words and everything pulls you in and gives you the feeliThe first thing that drew me into this book was the author's eloquent writing. She wastes no words and everything pulls you in and gives you the feeling you are a part of the story yourself. There is no better story than that.
The story is told from the viewpoint of Millie, a young girl who has been transplanted from Minnesota to the mysterious South by her Southern Belle mother, Posey. Millie is able to navigate this new lifestyle because of her friendship and reliance on Finley, her older brother by 18 months. With him around, she feels safe because of his natural outgoing nature, something she doesn't have.
They move into Millie's grandmother's home, a home that is filled with antiques and things that children have to be careful of. Her grandmother is out in a new little cottage her mother has had built so the home is quite large for this little family of three.
We are told of Posey's flirtatious nature, even with good friend's husbands, and her other escapades as she falls right back into her southern lifestyle and personality. All of this affects Millie and her brother as they try to navigate the new rules of the South and their friend's mother's snubs after one of their mother's dalliances.
When I first met Finley, I really liked him, however, the fawning over him by his sister and mother have an undesired affect on him as he gets older. He becomes quite egotistical and a bit unlikable. Because of his father's lack of being available for him also contributes to this. Of course, we see that Posey, herself, is quite self-centered so he really does come by this naturally.
This is a growing up story from the 1970's, an era I'm well acquainted with, since they were also my growing up years. I could relate to so much of what Millie and her family went through and the pretenses they go through for the sake of what others will think. The fact that this is set in the South, adds to this.
This is a slow moving story, but not boring. It really takes you along quite nicely and you become very involved in these family's lives. I enjoyed this book a lot and give it 4 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me from the Just Read Publicity Group. I received a copy of this book to review but I was not financially compensated in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and are based on my observations while reading this book...more
This was the first time I have read a book by RaeAnne Thayne but it definitely will not be my last! I really, really liked this book and just couldn'tThis was the first time I have read a book by RaeAnne Thayne but it definitely will not be my last! I really, really liked this book and just couldn't put it down! This is part of the Haven Point series but I was never lost because I hadn't read the books before this one.
Megan is the owner of the cottages at Silver Lake and I just love her caring personality in making everyone feel welcome. The cottages have been in her family for 5 generations and she takes this seriously. She also has an artistic side and is an excellent photographer. My favorites thing about her, though, is her loyalty to her family. She is there for her brother and his children whenever she is needed plus she's an excellent friend to her friends.
Elliot is what we think of as a typical FBI agent. He dependable, hard to read, and stoic. He is also an author of popular crime books and he is on a deadline so he decides to rent one of the cottages at Silver Lake. Unfortunately for Megan, he ends up in the cottage next to hers. She has always been a bit off-put by him but after he made it clear that he believed her brother had killed his wife, she really wanted nothing to do with him.
It's these circumstances that they both have to navigate around. Elliot has always had feeling for Megan but didn't feel free to share those feeling with her. However, his own life has been turned upside down and he's looking at his life in a new way and trying to be more open-minded about things. It's with this attitude that he and Megan are able to navigate ahead. I don't want to give away any spoilers so I'm not going to go into any detail here.
I just loved this story, the characters, and the feeling of really caring about them that the author gave me. I could picture the scenery because she has such a beautiful way with words, you feel like you are right there and that you truly know these people you're reading about. I honestly cannot wait for the next book when she will deal more with Megan's brother and his wife. I'm also going to be getting more of RaeAnne's books from before this because it was so good! I highly recommend this lovely romance with a touch of mystery. It was a book to escape into! I give it 5 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me by Little Bird Publicity....more
As a Book Girl myself, this book spoke directly to my book loving heart.
I love the way Sarah Clarkson writes - she writes so eloquently and beautifulAs a Book Girl myself, this book spoke directly to my book loving heart.
I love the way Sarah Clarkson writes - she writes so eloquently and beautifully and in a way that draws you into her book and keeps you there. I loved how she really was able to express what books mean to her the same way I feel about them. They truly do add value to our lives when we chose books that enlighten our world.
I really like how she spoke of discernment and how we can use it when choosing and reading books. I think this is so important because what we put before our eyes and into our brains, stays there and can either make us better people or take us where we don't want to go.
Sarah also shares lists of the books that have impacted her life and I loved this. Some I had read and some I haven't, and I really like that I now have a list of books that I can enjoy and read. It's like having a friend share her favorite books with you because you feel like Sarah is your friend as you read this book.
If you like books as much as I do, you're going to love reading this book. It is the ultimate book girl book. I enjoyed each and every word I read! I highly recommend this book and give it 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me by the author and publisher. I received a copy of this book to review but I was not financially compensated in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and are based on my observations while reading this book....more
Like all of Lynette Eason's books, this one was another exceptional read. It was rather difficult at times because the subject matter is about human tLike all of Lynette Eason's books, this one was another exceptional read. It was rather difficult at times because the subject matter is about human trafficking. It really put me on edge at times but it was definitely worth reading.
It was fun reading about the St. John family again. They are such a great family and I enjoyed getting to know them again. This book definitely stands alone but the first book in the Blue Justice series, Oath of Honor, is well worth reading if you haven't yet. I really enjoyed that book, too!
This book focuses on Chloe and her K-9, Hank. I really loved reading about how the police officers work closely with their dogs and I fell in love with Hank and all he could do. I also enjoyed Blake, who has been friends with the St. John family for years but is now relying on them in a professional capacity as his daughter has been kidnapped. Blake is a U.S. Marshall and the bad guys who have taken his daughter are demanding something of him that is beyond the pale.
I loved the character of Rachel, Blake's daughter. She is so complex. She is strong yet so desperate to feel loved and worth-while at the same time. I really like how the author makes her such a real person as she struggles with what has happened to her. As I said, because this focuses on human trafficking, there are a lot of tense moments in the book where I just wasn't sure I could plod on with the story, but I'm so glad I did. Yes, the hard moments are hard, but it's well worth the read and it was an enjoyable read - just difficult in places.
The story has so many twists and turns and just when you think that things are going to be solved, something new happens and you're off and running again with the characters of the book. It's definitely a fast paced book! I really enjoyed this and give it 5 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by Revell Books...more
This is a fantastic Bible, especially if you want to understand the times that you are reading about. I love how it puts things into context for me byThis is a fantastic Bible, especially if you want to understand the times that you are reading about. I love how it puts things into context for me by educating me about the people and their culture. It gave me a deeper understanding of why certain things were done or said in the Bible.
There is so much information packed into this beautiful Bible. Photographs, maps and more! I love that you have so many visual aides inside to help you truly see how the people lived. Plus, having the color maps is really nice so you know exactly where you're reading about.
There are over 2000 study notes, plus diagrams, articles (like the one you see above) and more! It truly does take you into the lives of the people! I also liked that there are book introductions before each book of the Bible. I find this very helpful before actually digging into the book. You have an idea of what you're going to be reading and how you can apply it to your own life.
I have never had a timeline inside my Bible before and I love this! You can look at a glance to see when important events took place and exactly where they are in the Bible. There are actually 4 timelines in this Bible and I found them to be so helpful!
There is so much to read, to look at, and to ponder over as you read. This Bible would be great for anyone but it would really be great for Pastors, teachers or students. For my own women Bible studies, this is going to be invaluable for gaining more out of my studies.
Everything is easy to read and understand, which is also a plus. You come away feeling like you truly understand things so much clearer because of how it's written.
I really love this Bible and highly recommend it! It's become my favorite and I'm using it as I do my studies as well as my daily Bible reading. It's made it all come more alive for me. I give this Bible 5 out of 5 stars.
*This Bible was provided to me for my honest review by Crossway...more
I am always so very blessed to read a book by Dr. Caroline Leaf. She has, quite honestly, changed my life for the better in so many ways. She's reallyI am always so very blessed to read a book by Dr. Caroline Leaf. She has, quite honestly, changed my life for the better in so many ways. She's really brilliant and her books are easy to read and apply to our life, despite her use of big words! lol
I really like that Dr. Leaf always emphasizes that we are each uniquely created and that we can utilize the way we think to learn and succeed in better ways. I also love the Gift Profile part of the book because it gave me a clearer understanding of who I am and how I can better use my gifts. I also like that she talks about healthy mindsets. This was particularly helpful to me, especially when she talks about taking thoughts captive. It's so easy to think negative thoughts and she gives us the tools to stop these things in their tracks and think in better ways.
Of course, how we think affects how we learn and succeed so she draws the line from one to the other for us so we can have better success in our lives. Having a more loving attitude with gratefulness and forgiveness is the road for us to do better in our lives. Of course, we know this, but with Dr. Leaf, she breaks it down and gives us the tools to actually think this way.
This is a great book for anyone who wants to improve their thinking and their life. Dr. Leaf has once again written an amazing book that will bless you! I highly recommend this book and give it 5 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me by the publisher an author for my honest review...more
This book on prayer is really helpful, without being judgemental, on making our prayer life more vibrant. Dr. Youssef encourages us through the storieThis book on prayer is really helpful, without being judgemental, on making our prayer life more vibrant. Dr. Youssef encourages us through the stories of different people of the Bible and points out that these people were not perfect, nor was their prayer life, but they still had a powerful relationship with God.
Along with these stories from the Bible, he brings true life experiences and challenges into the book to help us in our prayer life. This helps to make this book even more relatable because he shares the struggles we have in our lives and how we can make prayer as important as it should be when dealing with our concerns.
I like how he really went through the prayers in a deep way to help us gain a better understanding of these prayers of the people in the Bible and also showed us how God answered those prayers. It gave me more insight into prayer and how prayer is so vital to my Christian walk and relationship with God.
I enjoyed this book and thought Dr. Youssef did a great job of making it easy to read. I think it's a book that many will enjoy and it will bring prayers into the place of our lives that they should be.
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by Baker Publishing Group...more
This book focuses on one of my favorite authors, Ernest Hemingway, and his third wife, Martha Gelhorn, or Marty has her friends call her. This is a stThis book focuses on one of my favorite authors, Ernest Hemingway, and his third wife, Martha Gelhorn, or Marty has her friends call her. This is a story of two powerful personalities with great talent who respect, love, yet envy each other.
The wonderful thing about this novel is that you feel transported to the 1930's. The authors talent in describing everything, without too many words, is excellent. I felt as though I was in the same rooms, in the war zones, because the author was able to take me there. She does the same with the characterization of Hemingway and Gelhorn and those around them. You come away from the book feeling you know these people intimately.
I read this book as a fan of Hemingway (and I still am - he was one of the first authors my reader father introduced me to as a girl) and so, although I know he was a flawed man, this book really focuses on those flaws. Because of my great admiration for the writer, I found this a bit off-putting. I think both of these people were flawed, yet I felt the author giving much more sympathy to Gelhorn, which is what I think she was going for.
I do think that in real life, these two people brought out the worst in each other and this book very much reveals that. It's a difficult read from the point of view that you can see these talented people are wasting their life on booze and self absorption. We go through their relationship from the beginning to it's end and it's one bumpy ride!
This was not an easy read for me, yet it was still a good story. I think I would have liked to have seen more good in these two people, instead of so much distasteful stuff. Everyone is flawed but this book really focuses on these two people's failings. Despite this, I enjoyed the authors writing style. I give this book 3 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by Little Bird Publicity...more
This has to be one of the best books I've ever read because it inspires me to live a life of prayer! I love that Molly Bruno made prayer a normal partThis has to be one of the best books I've ever read because it inspires me to live a life of prayer! I love that Molly Bruno made prayer a normal part of her daily life - something I really want for my own life.
If you have ever seen the movie, The War Room (something I highly recommend you do!), you'll remember the character of Miss Clara, the praying woman who had a war room of prayer. That character was based on Molly Bruno! So that tells you a lot about the kind of woman Molly Bruno was. She's the kind of godly woman I would like to be!
This book is so enjoyable to read. We learn about Molly from her daughter, Marie Armenia, and she tells a delightful story of a woman who enjoyed life, people, and loved her family. She has a wonderful sense of humor and someone I would have liked to have known in real life.
I love that there are Molly's Life Lessons throughout the book, and even better, they are all listed in the back of the book. These are common-sense, faithful things that Molly believed and they are things I would like to implement into my own life. Some of my favorites are:
Don't assume you know the whole story of someone else's life. You never know but God does. Pray.
A fake prayer is a waste of your time and God's.
Don't let the storms of your life keep you from telling others about Jesus.
A day without prayer, is a day without peace.
I have been so blessed by this book. It has made me refocus my energy on what is important in this life. My relationship with Jesus, prayer, and my family. This is definitely book that I will be keeping out and ready to be perused when I need encouragement. It's a wonderful book that I am so glad I got to read! I highly, highly recommend this book and give it 5 out of 5 stars! I hope you'll pick up a copy of your own!
*This book was provided to me by Hachette books. I received a copy of this book to review but I was not financially compensated in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and are based on my observations while reading this book. ...more
This book started out fast paced and never stopped. I had a hard time putting it down and loved the settings, the characters and the story line.
This bThis book started out fast paced and never stopped. I had a hard time putting it down and loved the settings, the characters and the story line.
This book is set in one of my favorite eras and places - early 19th century England. The author transports us back to this time perfectly and I felt like I was actually there. I love when an author can truly describe things in such a way as to bring us fully into the story.
We meet Kit when she is hiding behind a large potted plant at a party. She is a strong woman of great character and I love that she is willing to do what she needs to do to protect and take care of those she cares about.
Graham, the Viscount Wharton, is quite bored by all he's required to do and the pretense of most women he meets. He's looking for something or someone different and, when he meets Kit, he is fully intrigued!
There are a lot of secrets going on in this book - some believable for this time in history and some not. That was my only negative thought about this book - that some of the situations were not really believable for this time and place in history.
All in all, this was a good book. I do like that it dealt with the issue of rejection and the reliance on God through the different difficult situations. Yes, there are some things that don't ring true, but all in all, it was a lovely story with characters I truly cared about. I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by Bethany House. I received a copy of this book to review but I was not financially compensated in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and are based on my observations while reading this book....more
This is a short little book about the cynicism it's so easy to fall into when we see the difficult things going on around us.
Mr. Duesing brings a lotThis is a short little book about the cynicism it's so easy to fall into when we see the difficult things going on around us.
Mr. Duesing brings a lot of my favorite authors into this book like C.S. Lewis, Tolkien and more. I wasn't sure why J.K. Rowling was quoted in this book but I'm not a fan of hers so this is definitely my bias showing through. However, for the most part I enjoyed the different quotes and thoughts behind this book.
This book has six chapters, each focusing on hope. These include hope lives, the foundation of hope, flourishing hope, focusing on hope and living mere hope. Each one digs a bit deeper into how we can live with an attitude of hope rather than cynicism.
Although this book is good over-all, I would have liked to have had more direction on how we can live in an attitude of hope. There is good sections but over-all, the book didn't flow for me nor did I come away with a clear plan of how to make my life more hopeful. I'm giving this book 3 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me by B&H/Lifeway Books. I received a copy of this book to review but I was not financially compensated in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and are based on my observations while reading this book....more
The first thing you'll notice about this Bible study is how absolutely gorgeous it is! It is so very eye appealing from the front cover to the back. IThe first thing you'll notice about this Bible study is how absolutely gorgeous it is! It is so very eye appealing from the front cover to the back. I felt like so much thought was put into this study. Of course, how it looks doesn't mean anything if it isn't Biblical or doesn't teach us anything about God. However, this study definitely does just that and is excellent in bringing you to a closer relationship with the Lord and knowing Him more intimately. Being that it's published by Moody Publishers gives me assurance that it's going to be Biblical and I can trust what I'm reading and learning about.
I am enjoying doing this study so much. It digs deep, which I like, without feeling like I don't have the time to do it. I like that the author really keeps the focus on Jesus and how important it is to focus on Him. The study titles for the weeks include:
Praying through Christ Rejoicing in Christ Complete in Christ Hidden with Christ Loving like Christ and Ministering with Christ.
There are a lot of extras in the book including a devotional guide for leaders. This study has been excellent doing it on my own but would be fantastic for a small group or Women's Bible study in church. I have learned so much doing this study, and although I haven't quite finished it, I plan to do so because it's one of the best studies I've done. I really like that I'm learning so much about Jesus and that He truly is enough in all situations.
I recommend this study very highly as an wonderful study for all women. I give it 5 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by Side Door Communications...more
Like many of you, I had heard of Jonathan Edwards and had read some of his writings. However, I knew nothing, really, about the man or how profound hiLike many of you, I had heard of Jonathan Edwards and had read some of his writings. However, I knew nothing, really, about the man or how profound his belief in God and the Scriptures was.
This is a big book - 428 pages - and sometimes you can start into something like this wondering if it will hold your attention all the way through. Have no fear - this is a wonderful page turner that never is dry or boring. It starts off telling us about Jonathan's family and how he basically became the type of man he became because of the faithful family he had. His education was amazing and he strove to be well educated while still being faithful to God.
This book is divided into five parts: Love of God, Beauty, The Good Life, True Christianity, and finally, Heaven and Hell. The first section lets us get to know Jonathan Edwards from his youth to his death and then the rest focuses on his sermons and writings about each subject. The beauty of this is that we get to know the man before we start reading his writings.
Another thing I absolutely love about this book is at the end of each short chapter, there is a section devoted to living more like Edwards. This brings everything you've read concisely into an understanding of how you can live a more godly life. This was really helpful in my understanding of what I had just read.
Jonathan Edwards writings is beautiful and not at all dry as you might thing considering the era that he was living. The authors of this book, too, write beautifully and draw you into Jonathan Edwards life and his way of living for Jesus.
This is a wonderful book that, I believe, every Christian should read. It will enrich your understanding of who God is and what it means to live a life in spiritual abundance through Jesus. I highly recommend this book and give it 5 out of 5 stars. (I would give it more if I could!)
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by Moody Publishers...more
I finished this book in two days! It is definitely a page turner and I wasn't sure what was going to happen next.
This story is about Alicen (can I admI finished this book in two days! It is definitely a page turner and I wasn't sure what was going to happen next.
This story is about Alicen (can I admit here that it took me a few pages to realize how to pronounce this as Alison - lol) and how she deals with the tragic circumstances that befall her. At first, I wasn't sure if I was going to like Alicen but I think that's all part of the story - how she changes and evolves.
When she goes back to Montana, as place that holds dear memories as a child, things start to happen that have her, and those around her, unsettled. She starts hearing voices and seeing children that seem to speak to her and know her. Not only that, but she has heard of these children before from someone else.
I really like Alicen's friend, Louise. If only we could all have a friend like this! She is Alicen's advocate and helps her in so many ways. I like how she sees the good in Alicen, even when other's don't. I'm not too crazy about Alicen's mother, although her attitude really does have something to do with the story and how Alicen feels about herself.
This story really is the classic good versus evil story and Rachelle really does it well. There was a small area in the middle of the book where I thought it was dragging a bit, but other than this, I really enjoyed the book wholeheartedly. I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by the Tyndale Blog Network...more
My favorite genre of book is mystery - add in a touch of romance and it's the perfect book. Darkwater Secrets fit that perfectly.
This book is told froMy favorite genre of book is mystery - add in a touch of romance and it's the perfect book. Darkwater Secrets fit that perfectly.
This book is told from the voice of three main characters - Adelaide, Beau and Dimitri. I found this a little different as the author would put the characters name at the top and then we knew that the following words were coming from their thoughts. It took me a couple chapters to get used to this but then it flowed quite easily for me.
Each of these characters has something they are personally dealing with and there are some secrets for all these people. There is also some voodoo going on because this is set in New Orleans after all. Some of this was rather creepy, so be warned. There is also the discussion of rape in this book. There's nothing explicit but I think it's important to share this for someone who may be bothered by this.
This story really grabbed me from the first page and it was hard to put down. I liked the strong story with the strong characters and am looking forward to knowing what happens in future books. There is a romantic triangle, which I'm not a huge fan of, but the author wrote this so well, it wasn't a huge issue for me in this book.
I really like this book and high recommend it. I give it 5 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by Just Read Tours...more
I always love a good mystery, especially if it involves a policeman or detective. That was one reason why I chose to read this book. However, it was mI always love a good mystery, especially if it involves a policeman or detective. That was one reason why I chose to read this book. However, it was more a romance than a mystery, which I was surprised by.
I enjoyed the premise of the story and how dedicated to family that Aurora is. I also think the story line of her blaming God because of what happened to her brother was well done and very believable. I like that we see her struggling with her faith in a realistic way. Her guilt and self-blame are something I'm sure we can all relate to at one time or another in our lives.
I did enjoy the relationship aspect between Aurora and Jordon and enjoyed the dialogue between the two. I had a bit of a hard time figuring out, at times, who exactly we were "hearing" from as we read the inner thoughts of the characters. Sometimes, there wasn't a lot of explanation as to who we were reading about.
All in all, I liked this book. There are a few problems but not enough for me to dislike it. I'm giving it 4 out of 5 stars.
*This ebook was provided to me by Celebrate Lit. I received a copy of this book to review but I was not financially compensated in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and are based on my observations while reading this book....more
This book touched my heart in such a huge way! It is a short story that packs a huge punch and I won’t soon forget the story or little Janey.
When we fThis book touched my heart in such a huge way! It is a short story that packs a huge punch and I won’t soon forget the story or little Janey.
When we first meet Janey – a little eight-year-old girl – she is coming home from school to find her home empty and her mother and her mother’s boyfriend gone. Janey knows what this means as it’s happened to her before. Her mother has gone off and left her in the little rented house in Albuquerque and won’t be back anytime soon, if ever. Poor Janey is devastated because she doesn’t want to go back to the Children’s Home she went to when her mother did this before. She makes the decision to go to Trinidad, Colorado to see her loving teacher, Miss Butler, who was her second-grade teacher when they lived in Trinidad.
Janey decides to wait a week to see if her mother comes home and makes her plans and talks them over with Andy – her raggedy doll. I love how she talks to Andy and how he is her friend and her comfort. I can just see her clutching her little, soft friend!
The day comes for Janey to leave and she packs a wire, two-wheeled cart with all her things including food and water. She is quite a resourceful girl, but it’s totally believable because we know that she has had to fend for herself many times before when her mother can’t be bothered. Janey thinks she will make it to Trinidad in 2 or 3 days, but, of course, it’s much longer.
We follow along as Janey walks from Albuquerque to Trinidad and her struggles along the way. Andy is right by her side as she determinedly walks with I-25 in her sight, because she knows this is the road to Trinidad.
I really enjoyed this book! Is it believable to think that an eight-year-old could walk 250 miles? I don’t know, but I believed it. Her desire to be loved by someone she knows and to be valued is so great that she is willing to walk for days to get to that love. I think we all need and desire that kind of love and can relate to doing what we need to do to get it. This is a child that has been shown great compassion and care by a teacher and, because she doesn’t have that from her mother, it makes a great impact on her. I really loved this because my own second grade teacher made the same impact on me.
I also enjoyed this book because I am very familiar with Trinidad and that whole area from Albuquerque on to Raton, NM. My husband was raised in both Trinidad and Raton and so I could picture in my mind exactly where Janey was and where she was going. It was fun to read a book about an area so familiar to me.
I absolutely loved this story and all the characters. I enjoyed that the author showed us the best in people and it was such a feel-good story. I highly recommend this book and hope that you will get a copy to read. You won’t be disappointed! I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by liampublisher.com and LL Press...more
I really felt like the author had read my diaries! She said so many things that I have thought to myself and, not only that, but we like so many of thI really felt like the author had read my diaries! She said so many things that I have thought to myself and, not only that, but we like so many of the same things!
This book is for anyone who finds their world turned upside down by circumstances out of their control. For the author, it was finding that her parents were getting a divorce after decades of marriage. It made her feel like she could not depend on the normal things of her life any longer and I know exactly how that feels.
She is so honest and open about how she felt going through all these things. She felt lost and alone. I’m sure you’ve had something happen that makes you feel like there is no normal – nothing to hold on to – but here’s where the author helps to direct us. To Jesus. She reminds us that God is always there and working all the loose ends of the bad things into a good thing. It is during these times that we need to rest in God and rely on Him.
She also shares how she tries to make the atmosphere around her lovelier. She creates spaces that make her feel calm and peaceful, yet homey for her family. There is a lot of wisdom in this as we all need our homes to feel as peaceful and welcoming as possible, especially in the hard times when we just want to hunker down.
I also liked the questions that she asks in each chapter. It really makes one focus on what is important, especially our faith in God. I love this book and received an ebook to read for my review, however, I liked this book so much, and it made such a difference in my life, I am going to buy a hard copy of this book. Obviously, I highly recommend this book and give it 5 out of 5 stars.
This book was provided to me for my honest review by Faith Words...more
This book is absolutely delightful! I enjoyed each and every poem and found myself laughing out loud at some of the true antics of these adorable puppThis book is absolutely delightful! I enjoyed each and every poem and found myself laughing out loud at some of the true antics of these adorable puppy thoughts.
I am a real dog lover and it was so wonderful reading poems about my favorite friend. I really enjoyed how Patricia brought other animals into the poems, too. I adore all the descriptive words about these other animals like pigeons, cats, frogs and more! I really felt like I was seeing things as my furry friends see them.
These poems are so relaxing and a wonderful read plus there are adorable photographs to view, as well. I really enjoyed them as an adult but they would be fantastic for reading to our children. They would really enjoy hearing all about the doggie antics.
I can't tell you how much I enjoyed reading this book! I was so touched by so many of them because the author is a wonderful writer and made me feel all those warm, fuzzy feelings that animals bring to my heart.
I highly recommend this book of poetry and I think you'll enjoy it as much as I did, whether you're a dog lover or not. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by the author, Patricia Furstenberg...more
I really enjoyed this book! It’s based on historical facts including the planned bombing of Parliament by Guy Fawkes and his group. I have read aboutI really enjoyed this book! It’s based on historical facts including the planned bombing of Parliament by Guy Fawkes and his group. I have read about this plot and really liked how the author brought this into her storyline.
The book starts out at a place called a Color School, where young people learn to control color as a magic. Thomas Fawkes is excited because he will be getting his color mask soon from his father, Guy Fawkes, and he’s hoping for gray since he has a plague covering his eye that is gray stone. He is hoping he can control it off of his face. However, the evening that his father is to show up for the mask giving ceremony, he doesn’t show up but instead sends a note saying he will not be there. This begins Thomas’ journey to meet his father in London and demand his mask.
There are two different types of people that control color – the Keepers and the Igniters. The Igniters are in control because King James is on the throne and he is an Igniter. Thomas sees the Igniters treat the Keepers horribly, including sending them to the tower to be hung. It all comes down to one thing – the White Light. The Keepers fear it and the Igniters use it. There is so much intrigue in this book! I was never sure who I should be cheering for – the Keepers or Igniters. There were clear reasons for feeling positive about both of them but also reasons for feeling they are wrong. I liked how I was given the chance to come to my own conclusion my own way.
I loved the characters of Thomas and Emma. They both tried to do the right thing by their beliefs and also for those that meant so much to them. There were so many surprises and depths to Emma and I really enjoyed getting to know her as Thomas did. Yes, this book has magic, and I know there will be some Christians who feel this is wrong, however, there are no magic spells or evil demons (other than the good and evil we see in our own every day life). These people do not worship magic but use it to create or to work for them in their every day lives. This is a fantasy and, as such, should be looked at it as just a fictional story. I think you can find many wonderful, positive things in this book regarding trying to do the right thing and good conquering evil.
I loved this book! The author did such a wonderful job in creating a wonderful fantasy that will be great for young adults as well as adults. The characters are so well developed and so is the story. I highly recommend this book and give it 5 out of 5 stars. ...more
This story will have your emotions all over the place! One minute you're sad, the next happy with anticipation of what could happen next. It's a storyThis story will have your emotions all over the place! One minute you're sad, the next happy with anticipation of what could happen next. It's a story of redemption and how God's love can carry us through even the toughest situations.
Tara has had a rough time of it - being raised in the foster care system - and feeling she must be self sufficient. Enter her two half brothers who will change her life in profound ways. She loves her brothers deeply and cares for them just like a mother. She finally has a family that is hers.
A horrible change of events turns Tara's life upside down and she has to learn who she is all over again and navigate her new situation with a head injury, which isn't easy. Things she knows to be true, aren't, and she has a very hard time navigating this new territory.
However, God is guiding her - through her dear friends, her brothers, and the new people He has brought into her life. Everything is upside down in her life but we see how God uses the things that don't make sense.
Everything comes full circle by the end of this book and all has become clear for Tara. She grieves her losses but rejoices in all she's gained. My only complaint about this book is that is seemed a bit too long and I felt like the author could have eliminated some of the long drawn-out processes. Having said that, I still enjoyed the book immensely. I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by WaterBrookMultnomah...more
This is such an enjoyable book. I loved the characters, the setting, and the story of redemption so much I stayed up all night finishing it!
I really lThis is such an enjoyable book. I loved the characters, the setting, and the story of redemption so much I stayed up all night finishing it!
I really loved Serena and how she used her art to glorify God. Her absorption in her art is something I could relate to and I liked how the author really showed her heart and mind as she painted or didn't paint. This was very realistic, in my opinion, because artistic people really need to create. I also thought how her self-condemnation of herself was so realistic, too. It made her so real!
Henry was likable from the beginning, but he became even more so as the story went on. It was wonderful seeing him transform as he committed himself to God. He falters and stumbles along the way but this made it so relate-able because we all do this sometimes in our walk with God.
Another thing I liked about this story was how the author described things so beautifully, I felt as though I were there. I could imagine the valley and the houses as I read. It was like I was there!
This is a beautiful romance and a story of what happens when we trust God and allow Him to transform our life. I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it! I give it 5 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by Kregel Tours through NetGalley...more
I really like that the author emphasizes that it's all about Jesus - in fact, the beginning chapter is named just that. This book is written for womenI really like that the author emphasizes that it's all about Jesus - in fact, the beginning chapter is named just that. This book is written for women and emphasizes how much He loves us, however, I have never doubted Jesus' love for me or other women - or men for that matter. I have never felt "less than" as a woman in the church or as part of the family of God. I do think there are probably women who do, but from this aspect of the book, I couldn't relate.
I was very concerned right off the bat because she states that the two people that Jesus meets on the road to Emmaus are Jesus' uncle, Cleopas, and his wife, Mary In all my years of study and listening to other pastors, it has been emphasized that we don't really know exactly who was on the road with Jesus. She categorically states this as fact and this bothered me. In her reach to show how much Jesus loves women, she places Jesus' aunt, Mary, on the road as someone Jesus first chooses to show himself to after his resurrection.
On the bright side, I do like that she emphasizes how important it is to read the Bible. I do agree that so much of the Bible points to Jesus. I also agree that Jesus loves women. I liked the questions at the end of each chapter, too, because it encouraged more study.
However, there are some misleading statements (like the one about Cleopas and Mary) and some concerning ideas like using Scripture as worship but not necessarily as a moral tale, To me, it's a book about both as God wants us to worship Him, but He also wants us to have moral laws to live by. The other thing that concerned me was that we are interpreters of the Bible just by opening it and reading it.
I think this book could have been really great if she had just stuck to Biblical fact. I would have to think a new Christian woman would read this and be mis-lead. I wish I could give this book a better review but I can't. I give it 2 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by Bethany House Publishers...more
This is a very inspiring book and, as a Dolly Parton fan, I really enjoyed getting to know more about her.
The book starts at her beginning, in her chiThis is a very inspiring book and, as a Dolly Parton fan, I really enjoyed getting to know more about her.
The book starts at her beginning, in her childhood where we learn more about the people that encouraged and inspired her. She had a lot of great Christian people in her life that deepened her faith in God and gave her the strength and confidence to pursue her love of music.
I was extremely surprised by how her relationship with Porter Wagoner ended so horribly and give her so much credit for how she handled the situation. It really spoke of her faith and rising above a very difficult situation.
My favorite part of this book is learning about her faith, though. She has made this the center of her life and it has guided her in her career as well as her private life. I have always thought she stayed the same throughout her career, as a person, and I believe it's because she knew she wasn't bigger than God.
I absolutely love the questions at the end of each chapter and I did do each set of questions. I loved how they encouraged me to follow my own dreams and to deepen my own faith. I feel like the author really helped me to get into my own heart and figure out exactly how to pursue my own dreams. I also really loved the prayers at the end of each chapter. They are a great spring board to my own prayers concerning what God wants me to do in this life.
I really loved getting to know Miss Dolly and more about her faith! She is such an inspiration! I highly recommend this book, especially if you're a Dolly Parton fan. I also recommend it to anyone who wants to pursue their creative dreams. It's just a really great book. I give it 5 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by BookLook Bloggers program...more
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