A Time to Dance

A Time to Dance, a book in the Timeless Love Series, written by Karen Kingsbury is the first book I heave read by the author. Although I have seen numerous titles by her, and heard about what a great author she is, I have not previously had the opportunity to read any of her books.

The book focuses on the life of John and Abbey, who are nearing the stage of divorce in their life after spending over 20 years as a married couple. They are hesitant to tell their 2 grown children children the news, and they decide to wait until after their daughter’s wedding to announce the news to their children. During the time until their daughter’s wedding, John and Abbey begin to see what the other is going through in their relationship. Although there are many mistakes and issues they must overcome, they are continually reminded of the initial way they felt about one another.

Although I have never been married, and have just recently graduated college, I found this book to be interesting as it looked at a couple’s relationship and the struggles relationships can go through, which everyone can relate to.

I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their Booksneeze 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 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Heaven is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back

I recently read Heaven is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back by Todd Burpo with Lynn Vincent and I found myself unable to put the book down. I read for a few hours straight, absorbed in the young boy’s story of the time his emergency appendectomy gave him the opportunity to travel to Heaven.

Colton Burpo was an ordinary young boy, who found himself in an extraordinary place as he was on the operating table. Colton vividly explains to his parents all of the wonders he saw in Heaven, starting with the sashes worn by all and the overall environment in Heaven. Although many people may question Colton’s experience, the book clearly shows that the experience he had is real as he was able to explain what is contained in the Bible without ever having heard the Biblical Words at such a young age. Colton met members of his family that he never knew existed which made me believe, without a doubt, that Colton did, in fact, travel to Heaven as his earthly body was being operated on.

This book is not a difficult read, and I would recommend it as the perfect gift for everyone! I cannot wait to share the story of the Burpo family with my family and friends.

I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their Booksneeze 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 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

The Waiting

The Waiting is the second book in the Lancaster County Secrets Series written by Margaret Brownley, which looks at the life of Jorie King during the Vietnam War. The fact that Jorie and all of her friends and family are Amish did not keep her fiancée Ben from being drafted into the Army and traveling to Vietnam as a contentious objector who was still near, if not in, battles. As Jorie waited for Ben to return home, she began teaching school and helping the young children in her community with their task of passing their 8th grade exams. During this time, Jorie learns that Ben will not be returning home, as he was killed in Vietnam. An unlikely relationship begins to grow between Jorie and Ben’s brother, Caleb. Their relationship faces some turmoil, and they must decide if they belong together.

Although I’ve read numerous books about people who are Amish, I can honestly say this was the only one of its kind. I felt as if Jorie and all of the others in her community were “real” people, not just “perfect” people. The book shows that no matter who you are, or how you were raised, there is no one above making mistakes and having difficult relationships with others. For this reason, I think the book especially resonated with me.

I cannot wait to read the rest of the books in this series and find out more about the others in the community and how God will shape their futures.

“Available October 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

The House on Malcolm Street

In The House on Malcolm Street, Leah Breckenridge has faced more tragedies in her young life than would seem fair. Her brother, mother, husband, and infant son all died within a short span of time, and she is left to care for her young daughter with no income to provide for her family. Without the option of living with her father, because of their strained relationship, she moves away from the life she had known to live with her husband’s aunt Marigold who she never met. During her time at this new home, she meets another person who is also dealing with tragedy in his own way, and they must both learn how to deal with their grief and find comfort in God.

Leah tries to deal with her grief by throwing herself into working at Aunt Marigold’s boardinghouse by harvesting food for the family. She begins to make friends with the local residents of the town, and through those new friendships and the reconciliation of her past relationships, she begins the process of moving on from her grief.

I really enjoyed this book, and found myself empathizing with Leah and the others in the story who are all trying to reconcile their hurt and feelings of grief with the fact that God loves them and cares for them even though there were tragedies in their life. I also enjoyed reading about the faith of Leah’s daughter. At the age of six, she has the greatest belief that God will provide for her. Her faith is the kind that all should strive for.

“Available September 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

A Memory Between Us

The second book in the Wings of Glory Series, A Memory Between Us, written by Sarah Sundin follows Major Jack Novak and army nurse Lieutenant Ruth Doherty as they try to supply income for their families and find out what course their lives are going to take in Europe during World War II. Ruth always attempted to keep herself distanced from her patients, but Major Novak is very convincing in persuading Ruth to spend time with him as he recovers from an injury he received while flying a mission. Throughout their time spent together, the reader begins to find out more about the lives of both Ruth and Jack.

The book focuses on the relationship between Ruth and Jack, and the learning process and growth they must go through in order to find out if they are really meant to be together. Ruth must face her past and the difficult mistakes she made while trying to provide for her family. Jack must face his family to determine if his plan to be a minister is really right for him or if it is just being forced upon him by his family. Throughout these difficult struggles, all of the characters must rely upon God and find out what he wishes them to do with their lives.

I really enjoyed this book, as historical fiction is one of my favorite genres to read. I can’t wait to read the other books in the series because I am interested in learning more about the men in the Novak family and their relationships with one another and time they spent fighting in the U.S. Army.

“Available September 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

Good Morning, Lord

Good Morning, Lord: I Don’t Know Where You’re Going Today, But I’m Going with You by Sheila Walsh is probably the cutest devotional books I have ever seen. Although what matters is the content within the book, I will admit the cover of a book is what makes me want to purchase it or not, and this book had an adorable cover. I can imagine giving it to a friend just because of how cute it looks.

Aside from the looks of the book, the content was also something that I would want to share with others. The book is broken into daily devotionals which begin with the phrase “Good Morning, Lord! Today I Will…” Each daily devotional focuses on one particular aspect and contain a personal story and an example of the story contained in the Bible. There are questions that relate to the topic and space where thoughts can be recorded. Also, there is a short prayer and Bible Verse which relate to the topic for the day.

Although I read through this book fairly quickly, I am excited to start out each of my days by reading one of the devotions more in depth. They are the perfect length and will help me start my day with phrases such as “Today I Will…turn to you, take my emptiness before you, thank you for your love, and do all things for you.”

I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their Booksneeze 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 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

A Hope Undaunted

A Hope Undaunted, the Winds of Change novel, by Julie Lessman focuses on Katie O’Connor, the youngest daughter in a large family who thinks she has her life planned during the ending of the 1920s. Katie is confident and headstrong; she thinks she has her whole life figured out. She is going to attend law school, marry her wealthy boyfriend Jack, and pursue a career in politics which will help her fight for women’s rights. Little does Katie know that her life will change forever when her father’s punishment for her inability to obey his rules puts her in contact with a childhood enemy, Luke McGee.

Throughout this romance, I honestly did not know what the next move would be on the part of Katie and her family. This fact alone made the book stand apart from so many of the romance books available today. I also enjoyed the focus on family throughout this book; Katie wasn’t the only O’Connor family member who received attention in the book. Her sisters’ relationships with their husbands and children were focused upon, as well as the changing relationship between her parents as they begin to experience life without young children in the home.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Although it was a little over 500 pages, every turn of the page brought a new dimension to the characters. After completing the book, I learned there is another series which focused on Katie’s three older sisters and the struggles they went through when forming their current relationships. I will definitely be purchasing those books. I am also hoping there will be books written about Katie’s brothers in the Winds of Change novels.

“Available September 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

Making Waves

Marguerite Westing was about to have a summer of her life in the book Making Waves, by Lorna Seilstad, but little did Marguerite know her experiences in the summer of 1895 at Lake Manawa, Iowa would change her life forever. Marguerite was part of a wealthy family who decided to vacation at the lake for a summer. She was hoping it would provide her the opportunity to distance herself from the boring suitor her mother was pushing upon her, but it became so much more than that. Although not necessarily her intention, through her experiences on the lake, she found adventure, a love of sailing, and a relationship in the form of her sailing instructor, Trip Andrews.

When Marguerite finds love, she finds out things are not necessarily how she first thought. Her family has some hidden secrets which may prevent her from being with the man she loves. She must make the hard decision between remaining true to her family or following the path God has in store for her. This book is full of romance and familial ties which kept me captivated throughout the entire work. Marguerite’s determination in following her dreams and her strong relationship with God are both character traits I was impressed with and hope to emulate in my own life.

“Available September 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

Outlive Your Life

Outlive your Life: You Were Made to Make A Difference by Max Lucado focuses upon the concept in his title, the fact that Christians are called to make a difference. In order to portray this fact, Lucado looks into the first twelve chapters of the book of Acts. Lucado wrote this book in a story-like format where he uses Bible passages and personal stories to show that everyday individuals can make a difference in the world.

I enjoyed the book, and found his information at the onset of the book particularly interesting. Max Lucado points to the fact that there are 145 million orphans worldwide and there are 236 million people in the United States who consider themselves Christians. If these people were able to unite in caring for the Orphans, there would be none left in the world. This statistic drew me into the book and made me want to better understand what we can do, as Christians, to change the world.

I would recommend this book for anyone who wants to make a difference, be it in the world, the United States, or in their community. I was so interested in this book, I was able to finish it in two sittings, and I would not hesitate to read it again in the future.

I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their Booksneeze 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 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

You Changed my Life

There are few times I find myself tearing up during movies or books, but the short stories contained in You Changed my Life by Max Lucado had me doing just that. The book contains very short stories, most only a few pages, but the stories were very moving. The chapters focused on the concepts of Love, Kindness, Commitment, Compassion, Hope, Courage, Wisdom, and Friendship.

Since I loved the stories contained in the book, I found it hard to put the book down and finished it in the span of a few hours. I also liked the pictures in the books. Even though there were few pictures, the ones which were in the book were colorful and caught my attention. I also enjoyed how there were Bible Verses highlighted in the different chapters.

I will definitely be keeping this book in my “library” of favorites to refer back to, but I also am excited to buy additional copies of this book to give as gifts to some recent college graduates. This book would also be a great “coffee-table” book that will give everyone who turns its pages not only great stories, but great examples of how to live.

I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their Booksneeze 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 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

The Butterfly Effect

Have you ever wondered how the actions you do today will affect your future or the future of others? This is the premise of the book The Butterfly Effect: How Your Life Matters by Andy Andrews. After reading The Heart Mender by Andy Andrews I was excited to read his newest book, and I was not disappointed.

The Butterfly Effect looks at the actions of Joshua Chamberlain, a Colonel in the Union Army. His action at Gettysburg, PA in the Civil War was the turning point which led to the Union Army winning the Civil War. Andy Andrews indicates how America would have been different if the South were to have won the war.

The book was a quick read, and I was able to finish it in about fifteen minutes. The pictures and coloring of the pages were attention grabbing. I think this would be a great book for a graduate or for anyone in general.

I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their Booksneeze 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 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Love, Charleston

Through reading the back cover of this book, I was expecting a love story but Love, Charleston by Beth Webb Hart was much more than that. Love, Charleston deals with the relationships between three cousins and the struggles they are facing in their marriage, with their jobs, in their relationships, and with their mental health. I was pleasantly surprised by this book, and I would recommend it to anyone interested in reading a book about the realistic relationships.

The book is written from the viewpoint of three different characters. Roy Summerall is the single minister who moves to a new town and is looking for love and a mother for his daughter, Rose. Della Limehouse is questioning her relationship with her husband due to the financial constraints they are experiencing. Alisha Sutton is a doctor and the perfect mother who seems to have everything, but as she becomes ill her life drastically changes. Lastly, Anne Brumley is a main character within this book, although she does not voice any chapters in the way the other three do, but she is integral in the story. Anne is the sister of Alisha, and she is questioning what she thought was God’s plan for her life.

I really enjoyed this book, and although this was the first book I read by this particular author, I can’t wait to read other books by Beth Webb Hart.

I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their Booksneeze 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 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Let's Do Lunch

Recently, I read Let’s Do Lunch by Roger Troy Wilson. In this book, Roger Troy tells his story of losing over 200 pounds through an eating plan he created.

The basic premise of this book is that your largest meal of the day should be lunch. This meal should contain all of your protein for the day. He also stresses the importance of not snacking throughout the day unless absolutely necessary. Also, dinner and breakfast are to consist mainly of fruit. Bread is also restricted on this diet as well as desserts and sweets of any type.

Since I have tried various types of diets on the past, and have been successful at some and not so successful at others, I was hoping this book would have some new tips I haven’t heard of before. It did not. I did not like the idea that dinner should only consist of fruit and there should be no bread in your diet. If you restrict one type of food, you will inevitably want more of it and will binge on that particular food. Also, I think when you are craving food it’s important to not ignore that craving as the book recommends because when you eventually eat that food, you will eat large amounts of the food.

Overall, this book may be good for those people who do not know how to diet and have never tried to diet in the past, but I did not find anything in the book new or to be helpful to me in my attempts to lose weight.
I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their Booksneeze 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 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Resurrection in May

Resurrection In May by Lisa Samson focuses on the characters of Claudius Borne, who is an elderly farmer in Kentucky. Upon meeting May Seymour and learning that she is traveling to Rwanda, he invites her to live with him for the summer before her journey because her parents plan to leave the country. After dealing with extreme difficulty in Rwanda, May returns to Claudius’ farm to recover from her journey.

This is the first book I have read regarding the atrocities which occurred in Rwanda during the Hutu vs. Tutsi war and the first work by Lisa Samson. There were many things in this book which caused me to think about issues which are occurring outside of the United States: in this case the struggles of the people in Rwanda.

Although this book is different than anything I have read in the past, I would definitely recommend it to anyone who is interested in learning more about Rwanda during this horrific time in the mid 1990s or who is looking to feel a deep connect with the characters they are reading about

I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their Booksneeze 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 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Sarah's Garden (A Patch of Heaven Novel)

I have been interested in Amish Novels since reading my first Amish book by Beverly Lewis. Since that time, I have read many books concerning Amish main characters , and none of them have been a disappointment. Sarah’s Garden (A Patch of Heaven Novel), by Kelley Long is another book which delivers the same quality storyline as that of other authors who choose to focus on storylines concerning Amish characters.

Throughout the book, Sarah, a very shy girl, who is tasked with running her family’s produce stand, faces many difficulties. Throughout all of her struggles, she never loses her faith. I was completely interested in the romantic theme of the book, and I found myself drawn into Sarah and Grant’s relationship. Grant, the new neighbor who is a veterinarian, falls in love with Sarah and this serves as a very confusing situation for Sarah. Sarah could be shunned and forced to never see her family again if she pursues the relationship.

This was an extremely quick read...perfect for a summer afternoon by the pool! Although it was a little predictable, that is exactly what I expect when reading a romance novel such as this. I really enjoyed the English and Amish romance aspect, and I will definitely be reading the next books in this series.

I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Ransomed Dreams

Ransomed Dreams by Sally John tells the story of Sheridan Montgomery and Eliot Montgomery. Eliot Montgomery served as ambassador to Venezuela before the violent shooting which left him unable to care for himself. Fearing what had happened to them in a large city, Sheridan and Eliot moved to a small town in Mexico where they secluded themselves from their past and also those within in the small village. When the past comes back to haunt Sheridan, she must deal with the relationships she had with her father, sister, and the mysterious Luke Traynor who was her savior during the shooting.

Overall, the main theme of this book was forgiveness. Sheridan must deal with forgiving all of the people who hurt her in the past, as she unravels all of the secrets that were kept from her. I enjoyed this book, but I found it a little difficult to become one hundred percent into the book. It took me longer to read than books I have read in the past. But, with that said, I still enjoyed the main focus on the importance of forgiveness.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Tyndale 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

Love on a Dime

Love on a Dime: A Ladies of Summerhill Novel by Cara Lynn James, is a wonderful story based in Rhode Island in the 1890s. Lilly is a young writer, who writes dime novels in order to supplement the income of her favorite charity. As she attempts to keep her identity hidden due to her fears of being ostracized from the social elite class, problems ensue. Her previous fiancée purchases her publishing house, she is being blackmailed, and her brother’s wife is not who she seems to be.

I loved this book. From the first page to the last, it kept me interested in the story of Lilly and her attempts to do what she loved: write novels which were in line with her religious beliefs. Lilly’s interaction with her brother and family were relatable to what people currently go through, as sometimes doing what you love isn’t necessarily accepted by society. Although the book was a little predictable, that’s exactly what I was anticipating when I decided to review Love on a Dime for Thomas Nelson publishing. I enjoyed the book, and can’t wait to read the second in the series which comes out in January of 2011.

I received this book free of charge from Thomas Nelson Publishing, Booksneeze, in return for writing a book review.

Happily Ever Laughter

Although I’m not married, I was able to enjoy book Happily Ever Laughter: Discovering the Lighter Side of Marriage by Ken Davis as the General Editor. Because many of my friends will be marrying in the next few months, I thought it would be an interesting book to read and possibly give as a gift.

Throughout the book, there are thirty chapters of various short, humorous stories relating to marriage. Each chapter begins whit a short introduction to what the chapter’s theme will be about. Also, after the short story, there is a paragraph entitled Laugh Lesson which investigates the humorous situation in the story and looks at the root of the situation and finds a way for the married couple to deal with the situation.

This book was a quick read or one which you can read a chapter and pick it up a month later to read another chapter. For this reason, it’s a great book for a busy couple who doesn’t necessarily have time to read the entire book at one time.

Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book.

God's Promises for Girls

Before reading God’s Promises for Girls written by Jack Countryman and Amy Parker, I thought it would be a cute book for some of my younger cousins, but as I read through the book, I was able to find Bible verses that were relevant to various things I am going through as a 24 year old.

The book is divided into various sections dealing with issues including God’s Promises when you need forgiveness, God’s Promises about God’s Love, How God Wants you to Count your Blessings, God’s Promises about Making Each Day Count, and God’s Promises that His Love Never Changes. Each of these sections gave particular instances what these examples look like for young girls, such as examples in which you feel guilty about doing things like making your best friend feel bad or when you lose your best friend’s bracelet. After some examples are laid out, various Bible verses are listed that deal with that topic. In addition to the content of the book, there are cute pictures on every page which relate to the topic being discussed.

I thought this was a great book, and I can’t wait to share it with some of my younger cousins. Also, I will most likely be buying the God’s Promises for Boys version to share for Birthday gifts for my boy cousins.

Disclosure of Material Connection: Thomas Nelson Publishers provided me this Book free as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Storm Warning

Storm Warning by Billy Graham immediately drew my attention, as I am interested in anything that has to do with the end times. As a huge fan of the Left Behind series, I was excited to read Billy Graham’s take on the various Storms (not merely the storms that are found in nature) that are occurring in the world today and compare them to the book of Revelations.



It’s important to note that this book was originally published in 1992 but it has been updated to include some of the most concerning issues which occurred between 1992 and now such as Hurricane Katrina, the economic situation facing Americans, and the various terrorist events that have been occurring. It’s interesting that many of the issues which were relevant to the apocalypse in the 90s have become that much more commonplace in the year 2010.



I liked the personal aspects he put into the book such as his daughter’s experience with a hurricane in Florida and his childhood relationship with storms when living on a farm. I found the four horseman explanations very interesting, as I never really studied them that in-depth, especially in relation to situations that are currently occurring.



Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I didn’t feel as if the writing was difficult to comprehend, and I was very interested to hear how the times we are currently living in can relate to the book of Revelations. This was the first book I ever read by Billy Graham, and to be honest, I was a little nervous to read one of his books thinking the analysis would be hard for me to comprehend, but as I said before, I easily understood the concepts and enjoyed the book from start to finish. In the future, I will definitely be reading more of his works.



Disclosure of Material Connection: Thomas Nelson Publishers provided me this Book free as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Sound the Trumpet by Gilbert Morris

When my church had decided to clean out their library, it was the perfect opportunity for my younger cousins to read some of the older books (published 15 years ago) that they had never heard of in the past. After my cousin read Sound the Trumpet by Gilbert Morris, and talked about it non-stop, I decided to read it too.

Sound the Trumpet looks at a brother and sister throughout the time period of Pre-Revolutionary America to the beginnings of the American Revolution. This book has the perfect amount of romance, battles, and Biblical insights. Although the main characters faced hardships, they never forgot the Christian morals their mother instilled in them.

I cannot wait to read the other six books in this series!!

Friendship for Grown-Ups

I was very excited to receive Friendship for Grown-Ups: What I Missed and Learned Along the Way, written by Lisa Whelchel, who I know from watching re-runs of her time playing Blair on the Facts of Life. I had never before heard her speak at any events, but I heard rave reviews and couldn’t wait to read her book. As soon as I received it I started reading and did not put it down until I was finished.
Friendship for Grown-Ups delves into the difficulties Lisa had in making strong friendships. It talks about her struggles and the fact that she was always concerned about what others would think of her, or if she was bothering someone else, so she didn’t make the time to form close friendships. She also discusses her struggles in being completely honest with others and opening up to tell them about what she is really feeling. Throughout the book, Lisa talks about her current, and some previous, friendships and what went wrong and what went right with them.
I really enjoyed this book, which was a very quick read. If you are looking for a biography of Lisa’s childhood and time growing up in the spotlight, this is not the book for you. Rather, if you want to see an honest look at the struggles Lisa faced in her adult life, then you will enjoy this book. What I especially liked was the Appendix entitled Practical Steps for Developing and Growing Friendships; it offered some great insight into creating new friendships and also holding onto friendships that have already begun.
(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 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.")

Hand of Fate

Hand of Fate by Lis Wiehl delves into the life and murder of Jim Fate, a popular radio show host with very strong viewpoints. Throughout the book, three women involved in different agencies investigate the murder of Fate. Fate’s closest friends and biggest enemies are all investigated to determine who was responsible for the package which released a toxic gas in his radio studio.

This book is different than anything I have ever read in the past, but being involved in politics, I found the book very interesting. The storyline was strong, and I was unsure until the last moment as to who could have committed the crime. In addition to the mystery aspect of the book, I was interested in the lives of the three women who were investigating the murder. They all had difficulties they were dealing with, in addition to the work demands placed upon them when they were tasked with investigating the murder of Jim Fate.

Although this was the second book in the series, and I did not read the first, it was easy to understand and pick up on the storylines of the characters. I will definitely be purchasing the first book and the third when it becomes available next year.

This book was provide free of charge by Thomas Nelson publishing and reviewed free of charge by me.

Kaleidoscope by Patsy Clairmont

Patsy Clairmont, author of Kaleidoscope: Seeing God’s Wit and Wisdom in a Whole New Light” combines the words of Proverbs with personal experiences to create real life situations explaining how the Bible, specifically Proverbs, relates to us today.

I loved this book, and I found myself finishing it in the span of a day. Her short chapters of wisdom did not seem “preachy,” rather she gave experiences in her life that can relate to the various verses in Proverbs. Although I don’t often find myself reading books based upon Bible verses (I’m more of a historical fiction fan), I don’t have a single complaint about this book, and if she were to write additional books, I would definitely purchase them.

The chapters each had a moral, or a specific theme they addressed, then at the end of the chapter there were questions which related back to the advice within the chapter. Also, there were various verses at the end of each chapter which served to re-affirm the words which were just read.

If there is anyone looking for a book to offer words of advice to those in the 20 something age bracket, this would definitely be the book. Just starting out in my career, I feel like this book will be helpful in pointing me in the right direction in my life. I will continue to read the words of Patsy Clairmont, as I feel a second read of the book will bring me new insights that I may have missed in the first reading.

This book was provide free of charge by Thomas Nelson publishing and reviewed free of charge by me.

Love Your Heart

Love Your Heart by Tim McGraw and Tom Douglas

“Love Your Heart” by Tim McGraw and Tom Douglas tells the story of a young girl struggling with what talent she should present at her school talent show. She goes back and forth between various talents, which she discusses with her father, but she finally chooses the one that she thinks will win the show. When the time of the show comes, she makes a decision that shows what kind of young girl she is; either the kind that would selflessly help others or the kind that would do anything to win a trophy.

Overall, I thought the book was cute, with easily understandable words for children and nice graphics. Although I don’t have any children, I selected this book with my 4 year old cousin in mind. She loves books that she can flip through herself, and she enjoys looking at the pictures. This is a book that she will enjoy having read to her and one she can also enjoy on her own by looking at the pictures. The little dog running throughout the book will keep all young animal lovers interested.

The theme of the book was one which all parents want to teach their children; there is nothing more important than showing others kindness and compassion. The main character in the story learns through her kindness that the most important thing is not winning but what is in your heart.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Long Way Home

The Long Way Home by Andrew Klavan

The Long Way Home by Andrew Klavan is the second book in the Homelanders series which goes further into the year of Charlie West’s life which is a mystery to him. He finds himself being chased by an organization called the Homelanders and also by the police who are looking to place him back in prison for murder. Throughout the book, Charlie questions if he is good or evil, and if he was actually capable of murder. Through past relationships in his life, he begins to piece together the events of his missing year.
I found myself completely enthralled by the quest of Charlie to find out what happened during the past year of his life. The book was a quick read, and was correctly marketed to the juvenile market. I also found the presence of American patriotism a positive in this book. In addition to Charlie’s faith in his country, he also knows the difference between right and wrong; he is steadfast in his beliefs even when faced with teachers who will question and mock his views. This is a great example for the teenagers who may be reading this book. You do not have to merely agree with those who say things that counter your beliefs, rather you can question them in a respectful way, as Charlie did.
I cannot wait for the next book in the series which will be coming out in November of 2010. Even though I received this complimentary book as a member of Thomas Nelson’s Book Review Blogger program: BOOKsneeze, I will be purchasing the first and last book in the series since the second book left me eager to read more about Charlie.

The Sweet By and By

The Sweet By and By by Sara Evans and Rachel Hauck

Leave the past in the past. That was the pact Jade, a vintage shop owner, and her fiancee Max, an attorney at his family firm, made to one another. Little did they know with their wedding rapidly approaching, and with the appearance of Jade’s estranged mother, the past was to come crashing into the present.

The Sweet By and By, written by first-time author and country singer, Sara Evans along with Rachel Hauck takes you on a journey which explains the strained relationship between Jade and her mother Beryl and how past situations can haunt you throughout your life no matter how hard you try to forget them.

The book was a relatively quick read and it kept my attention throughout the entirety of the work. The flashbacks into Jade and Beryl’s past allowed for an interesting way to learn of their history; through snippets of Jade’s childhood we are slowly introduced to the girl she once was.

Another positive aspect of the book is the wholesomeness. Along with relationships serving as the backbone of the book, another prevailing theme is the struggle Beryl and Jade have with Christianity. Jade thinks her actions are unforgivable, and Jade’s redemption serves as a central theme.