book review: "high cotton" by debby mayne

Shay Henke has mixed feelings about going to her family's next reunion. On the one hand, she'll get to see everyone in her mama's family - folks she loves unconditionally. On the other hand, she knows there'll be more drama than you can shake a stick at. 

The days leading up to the event bring one surprise after another. First Shay must deal with her sister-in-law's deep, dark secret. Then she has to contend with the childish ways of her business-mogul twin cousins. And when her high school crush wants to be her date to the reunion...well, it may have been a dream come true for Shay's teen self, but the woman she's become doesn't know what to make of this. 

Shay's contentment is challenged, and she's determined to shake things up a bit. But will she find the excitement she's looking for, or will Shay realize she prefers her quiet and predictable life? One thing is certain: Life in the Bucklin family is never boring.

I loved this book! As a Southern girl myself, this book was right up my alley! I had to get used to the point of view switching with each chapter as I had to remember who was who but then it made the story more interesting as the story switched from character to character. I thought the characters sweet and charming and and found myself laughing at Shay's family's antics. This is a story for anyone who has those family members you just have to love. I liked reading about Shay's journey in finding a job she enjoyed (and couldn't help but think of the timing from one job to the next as God's perfect timing) and that she was brave enough to take that leap! Though fiction, this book encouraged me in my own life. To pursue that thing that I may be scared to do and live boldly!

I received a copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. You can purchase the book on Amazon by clicking here.

book review: "christy" by catherine marshall

 "The train taking nineteen-year-old teacher Christy Huddleston from her home in Asheville, North Carolina, might as well be transporting her to another world. The Smoky Mountain community of Cutter Gap feels suspended in time, trapped by poverty, superstitions, and century-old traditions.

But as Christy struggles to find acceptance in her new home, some see her - and her one-room school - as a threat to their way of life. Her faith is challenged and her heart is torn between two strong men with conflicting views about how to care for the families of the Cove. 

Yearning to make a difference, will Christy's determination and devotion be enough?"

I was very excited to review this book! I remember watching Christy on TV when I was little, so when I think of her, I picture Kellie Martin. It was her, along with the rest of the cast that I imagined as I read this book. Reading about Christy's life and her journey, it kept reminding me of my own life. I really liked one of the conversations between Miss Alice and Christy. Miss Alice was talking about their job in Cutter Gap. "One of our tasks here is to show folks a God who wants to give them joy. How they need joy! They have such hard lives..." And that's our job as well. To show God's love to others. I like the honesty of Christy; I found myself identifying with her more and more as I moved deeper into the story. She had to battle within herself to decide whether or not she would stay and teach or return to what was comfortable. But she said, "nor did I want to be a quitter." Her prayer not long after that statement is something I think we all can relate to. Her prayer, to me, is a moment of surrender. Of exchanging her plans for what God would have her do. "Somehow this Cove was my Cove. The children were my children. Little as I had to give, I had to give it here. It was as Miss Alice had said last night, we have to decide to give - even in hard spots where there's lots of evil...Anyway if You can use me here in this Cove, well, here I am."' I love the humor is this book and the heart. The people Christy met through her journey played a huge part in her life.  People to encourage her and befriend her. People possibly placed there by God for that moment. We all need people in our lives to listen and make us laugh and encourage us when we need it. I think back to my first year as a teacher and felt much like Christy did: overwhelmed with the task before me, unsure if I had made the right choice and contemplating quitting. But that's what makes this story so timely for me. God is showing me something about persevering. Of not giving up when it seems too hard. And that's where this book comes in. Christy is working on that same lesson. Though her story takes place in 1912, it's just as relevant today as it was back then.

I received a copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. You can read other reviews in the tour by clicking here.

book review: "israel - God's heart - landscapes and legacy" by ron gafni and kathleen barrett

Many of us only dream of traveling to the Holy Land. Very few, like Israel's top aerial photographer, Ron Gafni, soar above the craggy mountain ranges of Masada, the salty Dead Sea, and the iconic locations where Jesus walked. Israel - God's Heart - Landscapes and Legacy, beautifully captures the ancient landscapes of this great nation, as well as presents the legacy of God's redemption plan for the world.

I really enjoyed this book! I would love to travel to Israel some day - to see where the Bible unfolded! I like what it says on the first page: "The land of historical sites linked to the most decisive events in the history of humankind." The pictures are stunning! It just amazes me to see pictures of Capernaum, Nazareth and the Jordan River. And I like the narrative that runs through the book. It just all comes together to beautifully show such an important part of our Christian faith. 

I received a copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. You can learn more about the book by clicking here.

book review: "true to you" by becky wade

After a devastating heartbreak three years ago, genealogist and historical village owner Nora Bradford decided that burying her nose in her work and her books is far safer than romance in the here and now.

Unlike Nora, former Navy SEAL John Lawson is a modern-day man, usually 100-percent focused on the present. However, when John, an adoptee, is diagnosed with an inherited condition, he's forced to dig into the secrets of his ancestry.

John enlists Nora's help to uncover the identity of his birth mother, and as they work side by side, this pair of opposites begins to suspect that they just might be a perfect match. But can their hope for a future survive their wounds from the past?

I'm a fan of Becky Wade and was excited to read another of her books! I always enjoy a book with great banter between the two main characters and this book did not disappoint! I like how John described Nora as real but guarded and capable but vulnerable. I feel like that's something every girl can relate to! And I love Nora's love for vintage. And I'll admit I laughed out loud at John telling Nora he would carry her bag "...even though he felt like a wuss every time he put her bag with its green trim and bright pink monogram over his shoulder." I wanted to cry when John pushed Nora away, telling her he only saw his father when he looked in the mirror. I love how Nora put it in her letter to John: "All along, God knew you were Brian's son and He knew I was my mother's daughter. I believe that He brought us together on purpose, which explains why we're such a good match even though we're not much of a match on paper at all." I just enjoyed the sweetness of John and Nora's story. And his grand gesture for Nora at the end? Oh goodness. It was a great end to the story! This was a great, fun read and I look forward to reading about the other Bradford sisters! I suspect Willow and Corbin will find a way to get back together and I keep hoping Zander will tell Britt how he feels!

I received a copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. You can read other reviews in the blog tour by clicking here.

book review: "chasing famous" by lisa lloyd

What were you born to do? Who were you created to be? What's the yearning deep within your soul? What if you could live into that very purpose? This kind of living requires us to see ourselves as instruments designed to be used for the glory of God. But most of us don't see ourselves this way. Instead, we resign to be spectators in the audience, still waiting for our names to be called - to be cast in that next big role. Of course, we all hope to be selected. We end up auditioning for life, always striving to make the cut and gain approval. 

Written by a professional actress who spent years chasing after her own fame, Chasing Famous empowers us to bravely step into the role God has for us - no longer seeking after our own fame but joyfully making God's name famous - knowing we have been selected to stand center stage and proclaim His renown to all who will listen. 

I really enjoyed this book! As I was reading, I would be reminded of things I've read in other books or talked about with others. Pretty much all through the book, God kept confirming things like this for me! Lisa had me hooked from the first page: "But the Bible is clear - God wants to use the story of our lives to radiate His fame. We exist for Him. We've been rescued for Him. He doesn't point His finger at our mistakes and screwups. Rather, He points us to the stage so that we can share with the world how truly glorious He is. Will we bravely accept the role He intends for us to play?" And it's this realization that God keeps showing me. We're here to bring Him glory! Our lives should be a reflection of who He is and His love for the world. It's an amazing thing to take hold of but also a little overwhelming. And then the doubts start to settle in of how could God use us when we've made mistakes? What will others think? But I like what Lisa says to that: "But in actuality, telling our stories glorifies God as people see that only He could transform our lives. They watch His grace unfold through us." And then there's the story of Hosea and Gomer. It's one of my favorite stories because of how it portrays God's relentless love. "God provided Hosea as a mirror to Israel to show His unreserved love for them despite their rebellion to go after other lovers." Even though people reject God and try to run from them, His love for them doesn't stop. It's an amazing thing! Chasing Famous is a great book to push us in our faith to do more and go farther for God. 

I received a copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity for my honest review.
You can read other reviews in the book tour by clicking here.

book review: "control girl" by shannon popkin

Fights with your husband and kids. Unhappiness when things don't match your version of perfect. Tension, anger, fear - it all begins with a heart that craves control. When your vision of how life should be replaces God's vision, you doom your quest for security, peace and joy before it even starts. Thankfully, there is a better way. Join Shannon as she shares what she has discovered about her own control struggles and about God from studying Control Girls in the Bible. Learn how you too can lay down this burden and find rest in surrendering to the One who truly is in control.

I really enjoyed this book! I just finished reading a book about Sarah and her struggle with waiting on God so for a chance to read about some other women in the Bible (including Sarah as well) was exciting! I like how Shannon sets up the book by talking about Eve and the full impact of her decision to eat the forbidden fruit. She made some points that I've never though of it before but make complete sense. 

When Eve chose to eat the fruit, she tried taking the lead in her relationship with Adam. God tells Eve in Genesis 3:16, "and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee." What Shannon pointed out is that the desire this verse is talking about is the desire to control Adam. "As a daughter of Eve, I am infected with a desire to control." And this is the battle we all face as women. She talks about the struggle women have with wanting their husbands to lead but when they fail, the women step up, causing an imbalance in the relationship. Shannon uses a friend of hers as an example. "When Jennifer took the lead, she caused her husband to feel irrelevant. But by respectfully honoring her husband's input and being leadable, she activated the hero-leader inside of him. The Bible validates this chain reaction that Jennifer discovered. Have you noticed that the Bible always gives instructions to the wife first? It's because a husband can't follow his instructions until his wife follows hers." I like how easy the book is to read. Each chapter is broken down into short lessons, making it perfect for slowing down and really digesting each section. I also like the questions at the end of each lesson and the verse to meditate on. Control Girl is a great book to challenge and encourage us as women!

I received a copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. You can learn more about other reviews in this blog tour by clicking here.

book review: "waiting for wonder" by marlo schalesky

It's easy to believe in God when a promise is new and fresh, bubbling with life. It's hard when the years pass and nothing changes. It's hard to keep praying, keep hoping, keep believing. It's hard when those you love betray you, when desperation strikes, when your own plans backfire, and still God does not fill the emptiness. But what if this God of the waiting room is calling us to more?"

I was really excited to read this book! It was earlier this year that God showed me something about Abraham and Sarah. For the longest time, I've looked at Sarah as an example of what not to do. She ran ahead of God and looked what happen. I don't want to be like Sarah. But then God showed me something. He showed me that Abraham and Sarah's story is a story about His faithfulness. Even when Sarah messed up, because God keeps His promises, He still blessed the descendants that came from Ishmael...because God promised to make Abraham's descendants great. That's just amazing to me! So, when I saw this book come along to review, I knew I wanted to be a part. And as I'm going through a season of waiting myself, this was a "right time, right place" book for me.

Waiting for Wonder is a book to take your time with and highlight and make notes as you read. I like the parts in each chapter that tell Sarah's story from her possible point of view. I like all the backstory Marlo provides to the time period of Sarah, giving me a better understanding of her life and what it meant for her to be barren. I love how Marlo points out that God chose Sarah because she was barren. "The biblical account affirms that God looks barrenness in the face and makes his promise anyway. Or perhaps it would be more accurate to say he promises because. From the beginning of Sarai's "chosenness" God chose the impossible, he chose to transform, he chose the redemption of her shame, and ours. He did not call a fertile woman to birth a nation. He chose a barren one...on purpose." Marlo talks about how not only did Sarah run ahead of God by giving Hagar to Abraham but Abraham also took matters into his own hands when he lied to Pharaoh that Sarah was his sister. He was basically throwing the promise of a son away in order to spare his life. But God stepped in. "This is a God who is not thwarted by the betrayals, mistakes, fears, or hurtful actions of others. Others may create difficult circumstances in our lives. We may even create the difficult circumstances ourselves. But none of that can derail God's promises. God can make things right." There is so much more I can say about this book! I like the personal stories Marlo includes (especially the one about the balloon!) to help illustrate her points. This is one of those books I know I'll go back to when I need reminders about God's faithfulness and His perfect timing. 

I received a copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. You can enter the giveaway by clicking here!

book review: "dwelling places" by lucinda secrest mcdowell

What if a thriving, active faith were as simple as reading one word a day?

Do you long for serenity and refuge, peace and hope? Are you seeking a deeper spiritual life through a closer relationship with God?

If you're tired of dwelling in busyness and noise, then perhaps one word a day can change your life. Award-winning author Lucinda Secrest McDowell knows that if you spend time each day turning on God's Word for wisdom and guidance, your faith can flourish and grow.

Through short and inspiring readings, McDowell unpacks a single word - such as mercy, beauty, gratitude, or grace - to reveal a biblical blessing or challenge relevant to where you are. Full of stories and illustrations to empower you to live the word you have just read, each devotional ends with a benediction, written as if God were speaking directly to you.

These "dwelling places" that offer the joy of God's promise and presence cover four seasons: fall, Advent, Lent, and summer. Whether in the midst of busy holiday schedules, holy days, ordinary moments, or changing seasons, a deeper faith can be as simple as a single word.

I really like how the focus for each reading is simply one word. Each devotion is only two pages but those two pages are so powerful! One of my favorite readings is on the word "sea." McDowell quotes Anne Morrow Lindbergh: "For it is not merely the trivial which clutters our lives but the important as well." That's so true! How often are we busy with truly important things? I feel like that's the goal of this book: to be intentional but also purposeful with each reading. Packing a lot of information in just two pages. This same reading uses one of my favorite verses: "Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll receive your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest" (Matthew 11:28-30). I wrote in the margin the rest of that passage: "Walk with me and work with me - watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace." I love that phrase rhythms of grace. What caught my eye with this book is that it's broken up into seasons. The only disadvantage to the book is that there's only 130 different readings so there's not enough for each day of the year but it's still a great resource! Dwelling Places is a great way to start each day!

I received a copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. You can read other reviews in the book tour by clicking here.

You can also enter a giveaway by clicking here!

book review: "through the shadows" by karen barnett

Two years ago, the building of San Francisco were shaken off their foundations and burned to the ground in the devastating earthquake and fire. As the city rebuilds brick by brick, new hope is rising. But Elizabeth King is also trying to rectify the rubble in her own life - and she's not sure anything will be able to erase her past. But she doesn't anticipate finding new love. 

Hoping to right her wrongs, Elizabeth commits herself to helping young girls escape brothels in Chinatown, one of the darkest sections of San Francisco.

When she meets rising attorney Charles McKinley, who desires to save the city from corruption, and has dashing good looks to boot, she can't help feeling hopeful. However, she soon realizes while many loved ones may not turn her away after discovering her secret, the man she loves will have no choice. Elizabeth's past bears great consequences for both their futures. 

What caught my attention with this book is the attention to human trafficking. I wasn't really aware of the prevalence of human trafficking until my first missions trip out of the country to Guatemala in 2013. Side note: I've since done a little research and also came across Christine Caine and the great work she does to stop it through her non-profit, the A21 Campaign. I liked this book. I had a little bit of hard time getting into it but I was soon pulled into the story. I want to be like Donaldina - passionate about her cause and not willing to let others get in her way! I laughed at the scene of her pulling the officer behind her, hat askew as she barreled into the judges office! And the ending was beautifully sweet. I love what Charles told Elizabeth; it's what I pray for in my future husband. "I want you beside me every day of my life. I want you to argue with me and keep me on my toes. I want you to spur me to greater actions on behalf of God's kingdom." I love that Elizabeth finally let God's grace be enough for her - that she was able to let go of her hurt and give it all to Him. Such a beautiful story of love and redemption!

I received a copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. You can read other reviews in the book tour by clicking here.

You can also enter a giveaway by clicking here!

book review: "the beautiful pretender" by melanie dickerson

The Margrave of Thornbeck has to find a bride. Fast. He invites ten noble born ladies who meet the king's approval to be his guests at Thornbeck Castle for two weeks, a time to test these ladies and reveal their true character.

Avelina has only two instructions: keep her true identity a secret and make sure the margrave doesn't select her as his bride. Since the latter seems unlikely, she concentrates on not getting caught. No one must know she is merely a maidservant, sent by the Earl of Plimmwald to stand in for his daughter, Dorothea. 

Despite Avelina's best attempts at diverting attention from herself, the margrave has taken notice. And try as she might, she can't deny her own growing feelings. But something else is afoot in the castle. Something sinister that could have far worse - far deadlier - consequences. 

I was so excited to read this book because Beauty and the Beast is my absolute favorite fairy tale! I'm a huge fan of Melanie Dickerson and loved The Golden Braid. This book was full of action, twists, humor and romance. This was a book I had a hard time putting down because I wanted to keep reading, needing to know what happened next! I liked Avelina and how Reinhart was drawn to her, not because of her name but her character. When she wanted the orphans to have something to eat or wasn't constantly demanding his attention. It reminds me of Proverbs 31:30: "Charm is deceitful and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the LORD will be praised." I love how Melanie can take the basis of a fairy tale and breathe new life into it. She does a fantastic job of incorporating pieces of what we know (like not going in the West Wing or Reinhart being gruff and grumpy and rescuing Avelina from the wolves) but adding more to it. This was such a great read!

I received a copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. You can read other reviews in the book tour by clicking here.

You can also enter a giveaway by clicking here!

book review: "i want it all" by gwen smith

The Bible tells us that God is able to do above and beyond what we can ask for or imagine. So why do we rarely dream big dreams, think big thoughts or expect God to do great things through us?

Gwen Smith knows how easy it is to dismiss God's plan with thoughts such as, I can't make a big difference for God because I'm just an ordinary woman with an ordinary life. Yet God created us to join Him in doing amazing work in the world. He created us to live with abundant joy, courage, and influence - but not the joy, courage, and influence of the world. He offers grace for each failure, love to shatter hate, and peace that soothes our turmoil. He gives us comfort, guidance, wisdom, rest, power, and significance. Every blessing God has for us is ours for the taking.

This is a book that is so timely for me! Life is busy right now (but when is it not?) and I'm juggling everything but at the same time, wanting more of God. I don't want to ever be too busy for God. Gwen got me hooked right from the beginning: "I want more. I want to live beyond ordinary. I want revival. Authentic soul-level revival. I want a maxed-out faith in Jesus that believes big things of God and waits in great expectation for how He is going to show up and show off on Main Street each day."I love this! She so adequately sums up what I want.

Gwen shares from her life - the funny and the painful. She talks about wanting God even when things are hard or we're scared. "We tremble. God says, "Do not fear." We wander. Grace calls us out by name. We wane in the heat of the firestorms. Love shields us from the flames. We struggle in the streams and are swayed by the currents. God reaches for shaky hands, grips us with comfort, and assures us that we are not alone."

Each chapter ends with some reflection questions to get you thinking and get more from each chapter. This is a book to take your time with and really let it sink in! Because we're in a fight and we need to be ready for battle every day. I really like what Gwen says about the need for the Holy Spirit. "I need the Spirit of God because the battles are fierce. Are you whispering, "Amen?" We simply cannot go into a gunfight with plastic knives in our hands. If I want to live with all the power that the Lord has for me, then I have to invite the Holy Spirit to lead. Every. Single. Day."

I really enjoyed this book and how it encouraged my faith! Gwen challenged me to have that daily expectation that God is going to do something! I want to always be looking for His hand in things and having the confidence that He's at work! And trust Him in all things. Such a great read! There's also a video for the book that captures the theme of the book and it's read by Gwen. 

I received a copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. You can see other reviews in the blog tour by clicking here.

book review: "the wedding chapel" by rachel hauck

For sixty years, the wedding chapel has stood silent and empty. Retired football hall-of-famer Jimmy "Coach" Westbrook built the chapel by hand, stone by stone, for his beautiful and beloved Collette Greer, whom he lost so many years ago. The chapel is a sanctuary for his memories, a monument to true love, and a testament to his survival of the deepest pain and loss.

Photographer Taylor Branson left her hometown of Heart's Bend, Tennessee, to make a new life for herself in New York. She had lots to run away from, not least of all a family history of broken promises and broken dreams. Love catches Taylor off guard when she falls for Jack Forester, a successful advertising executive, and their whirlwind romance leads to an elopement - then to second guesses. Jack, in spite of his very real love for Taylor, is battling his own demons and struggles to show her his true self and the depths of his love for her. 

Taking a photography assignment to Heart's Bend, Taylor is thrown back into a past of family secrets buried deep beneath the sands of time. When Taylor and Coach's journeys collide, they each rediscover the heartbeat of their own dreams as they learn that the love they long to hold is well worth the wait. 

I knew I had to read this book for two reasons. It's by Rachel Hauck - I love anything she writes - and it's set in my home state. This was such a great read! Because the story is being told from four different points of view, I had to really pay attention at first, trying to keep up with everything. The story also jumps from the past to the present. But I love how Taylor, Jack, Collette and Jimmy's stories intertwined! Rachel did a great job of spreading humor throughout the book. There were a few references to The Royal Wedding series which made me smile. I love the underlying theme of this book: it's never too late. Collette thought she would never see Jimmy again and had given up on that dream. Even when Collette walked back into her chapel, she still didn't believe she and Jimmy had a future together. She felt too much time had passed; she had made too many mistakes. Towards the end of the book, someone mentioned "love well." That was what stuck with me from How to Catch a Prince. Both Collette and Taylor had to figure out how to accomplish that. Taylor and Jack had huge hurdles to overcome because both had seen the effects of divorce and were afraid of opening up. But Jack, bless his heart, refused to give up on Taylor without a fight. I'd like to think their brokenness helped led to each others healing. This was such a beautiful story of love, forgiveness and pursuing what you want instead of letting it slip by. And oh, the chapel! I wish such a place actually existed! I can picture the beauty and peacefulness of it. Everything is quiet and you're able to feel God. Rachel did a great job not only with the characters but creating such beautiful visuals.

I received a copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity for my honest review.

 

book review: "the golden braid" by melanie dickerson

Rapunzel can throw a knife better than any man. She paints beautiful flowering vines on the walls of her plaster houses. She sings so sweetly she can coax even a beast to sleep. But there are two things she is afraid her mother might never allow her to do: learn to read and marry.

Fiercely devoted to Rapunzel, her mother is suspicious of every man who so much as looks at her daughter and warns her that no man can be trusted. After a young village farmer asks for Rapunzel's hand in marriage, Mother decided to move them once again - this time, to the large city of Hagenheim. 

The journey proves treacherous, and after being rescued by a knight - Sir Gerek - Rapunzel in turn rescues him farther down the road. As a result, Sir Gerek agrees to repay his debt to Rapunzel by teaching her to read. Could there be more to this knight than his arrogance and desire to marry for riches and position?

What a great read! I like how Melanie tied in things that are familiar to me about the story of Rapunzel (all thanks to Disney) but she put her own spin on it. This was a story full of action, humor, suspense and a splash of romance. I think every girl likes a good fairy tale and this book made Rapunzel's story possible. I loved Rapunzel's determination...to learn to read and find her freedom. She and Gerek made me laugh - especially when he was teaching her to read and was anything but happy about it. They fell in love without even realizing it. Melanie did a great job of telling this story - I liked how all the little details came together. How the book Gerek let Rapunzel borrow is what led him to finding her. How the scar on her hand ultimately led to her discovering the truth about her parents. Just a good read that will leave you believing in fairy tales :)

I received a copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity Group for my honest review.

 

book review: "the methuselah project" by rick barry

Shot down over Nazi Germany in 1943, Roger Greene becomes both a prisoner and an unwilling guinea pig in a bizarre experiment. Seventy years later, Roger still appears as youthful as that day he crash-landed - and he's still a prisoner. Nearly insane from his long captivity, Roger finds his only hope in an old Bible.

Not until present day time does Roger finally escape from the secret society running the Methuselah Project. When he does, the modern world has become a fast-paced, perplexing place. His only option is to accept the help of Katherine Mueller - crack shot, go-getter, and attractive to boot. Can he convince her of the truth of his crazy story? And can he continue to trust her when he finds out she works for the very organization he's trying to flee? 

I found the plot for this story interesting! I liked the way the story jumped back and forth between Katherine and Roger, telling each of their stories until they meet. It took me a little while to get into the story but after that, I wanted to keep reading to see what would happen next! I found myself holding my breath as I read of Roger's first attempt at escape only to be returned to his prison. And then as he discovered what had happened to the world since his capture, I can't imagine how overwhelmed he must have felt. In a way, Roger reminded me of Captain America; even his personality. I love the way he found God and He became Roger's stabilizing force through his time at the Kossler Estate. This was a story of action, faith and a dash of romance. A good read!

I received a copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity for my honest review.

book review: "the finishing school" by valerie woerner

In today's world, our pursuit of a life well lived gets squeezed out by the silliest of things: binging on Netflix or ice cream shopping trips for things we don't need, bad habits we can't seem to get a handle on and so much more. Valerie has been there despite knowing what she wanted for her life. Actually do it though? That's the real challenge.

After gobbling up all the non-fiction and self-help books her donut-filled belly could handle, she decided it was time to put her knowledge to use and start actually living it out. The result has been a refining process that has drawn her closer to God and produced the sweetest fruit in her life. You will hear about Valerie's journey filled with failures and victories and find practical tips to apply to your own pursuit of holiness. You will find homework at the end of each chapter that includes a worksheet to put real change in motion for your life as well as recommended books to further study those topics that really test you.

I really. liked. this. book! In the first chapter, Valerie gives suggestions for how to use the book: either read the book all the way through, slowing down and meditating on chapters that are applicable to you or spread the book over the course of a year. This is a book I definitely plan on slowing down to read, so I can reflect and get the most out of it! I like what Valerie says about the book: "My hope is that you will be encouraged in these pages to live out your faith and that people would see your fruit. This doesn't mean seeking after perfection. It simply means that we look different than we did last year because of God's work in our lives. I think when unbelievers can see our walk - trips and falls and all - that speaks to them too. Let's be genuine and authentic as we pursue Christ and point to His glory." I feel like this sums up the entire book. And that's what I want. To not go throughout life without changing but to continually strive to be who God wants me to be...and to be more like Him. One of the biggest take-aways for me is fighting distractions. "Our distractions don't just keep us from a productive day. They can also hinder us from something the Lord is calling us to do." Ouch. I'm trying to be more intentional and focused after reading this book. Making a weekly to-do list, really focusing on what I need to get done...and then doing it! I'm busy - I have my job, church commitments and then my family all vying for my attention. Valerie did a great job of encouraging me but also challenging me. 

I received a copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity for my honest review.

 

book review: "gather around the amish table" by lucy leid

This cookbook offers favorite family recipes and charming stories from Amish and Mennonite cooks. Bake the pecan rolls that taste best after an ice-skating party, or try the hoagies that a community sold to help an Amish family with hospital bills. Discover the cocoa cupcakes with instructions to "stir by hand" that one young cook took literally, or whip up the whoopie pies that one Amish woman took to market in her horse and buggy.

Gather your family around the table to sample the delightful flavors and comforting traditions of the plain people. In the words of one cookbook contributor: "Bake someone happy!"

I love the idea of things centering around food; of having friends or family over on a weeknight to celebrate the normal. I think this cookbook is perfect for that! The pictures of the Amish community are beautiful and I love the stories attached with the recipes. There are certain recipes I make that have memories associated with them. I like what Lucy says in the "Compiler's Note": "It's one of the blessings of life to share ourselves with each other." That's so true. I love the simplicity of the recipes. Life is busy right now (as I'm sure everyone can relate to) but I want to make time for the simple. To find enjoyment in biting into a fresh, homemade blueberry muffin or doughnut. There are so many recipes in this book! Breads, soups, sandwiches, cookies, desserts - just to name a few. I haven't had the chance to try any recipes but I will be! At the top of my list are pumpkin cookies, brown sugar oatmeal cookies, Huntington chicken - they all sound delicious! The recipes in the book are easy to read and follow. I'm looking forward to making these recipes, knowing I'm tapping into some Amish history.

I received a copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity for my honest review.

media review: "intersect" by rob peabody and chris rogers

Follow the journey of five individuals as they tell authentic stories of circumstances that have forced them to examine how God might fit into their lives. Within each story there will be a point where the viewer's own personal story intersects and an opportunity to discover where God's story converges. 

Starting spiritual conversations with those outside of church is viewed as a worthy, yet arduous and intimidating task. Intersect was created as an easy-to-use resource, perfect for sharing with co-workers, friends, neighbors, and family to enter into meaningful conversations. Each film is accompanied by thought-provoking questions to designed to encourage each participant to examine the world in which they live and the life they're pursuing, always ending with a conversation on how Jesus intersects the current topic.

Allow this powerful new film resource to engage those you are in relationship with, and then propel them forward in their next step with Jesus.

Intersect tells the story of five people and each story focuses on a different topic:
1. Expectations
How do we handle the unexpected things that we encounter in life?
2. Rest
In the long pursuit of your dreams and desires, do you find yourself feeling empty, dry and exhausted?
3. Disappointment
What do you do when you realize the life you are living isn't the life you were hoping for?
4. Trust
What if God is not against us, but actually for us?
5. Control
Are we actually in control of our lives or are our lives in control of us?

These five topics are things that anyone can identify with, no matter where you're at in life. One thing that stood out to me in the video is that when we face hard times, "God isn't the thing to run from but the thing to run to. His promise isn't about an easy ride but a safe arrival." I like how each story wraps up with a gently push toward God and the fact that He's with us, regardless of what we may face. The study guide includes discussion questions and scriptures to accompany each topic. When we go through hard times, sometimes people blame God. But as several people in the DVD said, God is the one thing we can hold onto during those hard times. I think about James in the video. His wife divorced him after two years of marriage. He said he wouldn't trade the experience because of what he learned about God as a result. All of us struggle with having unmet expectations, being so busy trying to achieve things that we fail to rest, feeling disappointment when dreams fall apart, trusting God and giving God control of everything. All of these topics are interconnected in some way. I like that each video is short yet thought provoking. Intersect is a great small group resource. One other thing said in the video: "I'm for you. I'm with you. Keep going."  God is the one cheering us on." And we all need a reminder of that.

I received a copy of this DVD from Litfuse Publicity Group for my honest review.

book review: "until my name is known" by sonya contreras

The time: 2450 BC

The place: Old Kingdom of Egypt

Pharaoh is god. 

His people worship him. 

Israel's God arrives. 

He challenges Pharaoh. 

His power touches all. 

They must change. 

Some don't concede. They suffer. 

Others yield. They find freedom. 

Until My Name Is Known brings all to see the one true God. 

Read it to see Him. 

I like to read fiction stories that bring to life the Bible. To take stories I've grown up hearing and tell them in a new way. Even though I know the story of the Israelites leaving Egypt, I found myself unable to put this book down. I was drawn to the characters and how the Hebrews chose to trust God. And it was trusting God that was the theme through this book - and what happened to those who didn't trust. Before Moses left to return to Egypt, Zipporah struggled with a God who require such a mission of her husband. "You trust this God too much." She told Moses. "I trust this God too little. Or I wouldn't question." And I find myself in the same place today: trusting God completely. Without question. No matter what. During the plagues, some of the Hebrews had a hard time equating the destruction of the plagues with a loving God. Aaron asked one of them, "Will anyone seek God, if he doesn't know he needs God? Pain drives us to God or away from Him. We need Him, Mack. Pain makes us seek Him more than anything else." I like how this book has given me a fresh perspective on this familiar story. All through the book, the Egyptians realize more and more how incapable their gods are. With each plague, God specifically targets each of their gods, showing their lack of power. The chief high priest keeps saying how jealous the Hebrews' God is, not sharing His power. It makes me wonder if any of the Egyptians, seeing God's hand, chose to worship Him? If they realized He was the true God. This is a great book to encourage your faith and remind you of God's faithfulness. One of the Hebrews, as they're leaving Egypt, things about Joseph's bones that they're taking with them. "Joseph's bones lay hidden with Moses' possessions. God heard the desire of a man and granted it four hundred and twenty years later. If he ever doubted God caring about the details, he would remember this." I think that's one of the main things I took from this story: God is faithful. Always. 

I received a copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity Group for my honest review. 

book review: "summer's list" by anita higman

Life hadn't been easy for Summer Snow. In acts of selflessness - caring for her ailing parents and running her grandmother's bookstore - she had forfeited her youth and dreams for the needs of others. And the only shots she had at love…didn't' work out. She had the bookstore, she had her beloved granny, but she was missing something - or someone.

Opportunity strikes when Granny sends Summer on an unexpected adventure with one Martin Langtree, a kind and quirky young man from Summer's past. With Laney the Chihuahua along for the ride, a childhood friendship is rekindled, a romance is sparked, and mysteries are solved in one magical Texas summer. Will Summer strike out on love again, or will things finally go her way?

I couldn't put this book down! It was such a sweet story that it didn't take me long to get swept away in Summer's adventure. It was such a great story - a story of forgiveness, letting go, heartbreak, and love. Anita did a great job of bringing everything together in the end and I finished it, happy with the characters and their story. I've grown up loving to read and spending hours in the library so I immediately connected with Summer and her love of her granny's bookstore. And the friendship between Martin and Summer was so sweet. I love how they were able to pick up where they left off when Summer knocked on his door twenty years later. I wanted to cry when Granny passed away and at the pain Summer felt. But then I laughed aloud when Martin told Summer he had burned the soup and they would have to either eat cat food or go out somewhere. I enjoyed his honesty and how special he made Summer feel. This was just a fun and sweet book. A great summer read!

I received a copy of this book for my honest review. 

book review: "picture perfect love" by melissa mcclone

Photographer Jenna Harrison wants every bride and groom to look picture perfect on their special day, putting her heart into every wedding to give the couple memorable images of their love. But her own heart is still broken, the unworn wedding dress hanging in her closet a reminder that relationships aren't always as perfect as they look through her camera lens. But Jenna has faith that she will find true love. Until then, she must be patient and trust in God's plan and His perfect timing.

Attorney Ashton Vance is the one that got away. When an embarrassing Photoshopped picture put an end to his political aspirations, he blamed Jenna. So what if the photo led to his being offered a dream job and changing his life for the better? Jenna betrayed his trust, and two years later, Ashton's heart still hasn't recovered.

It was me. His younger sister's three words turn Ashton's world upside down. He must ask Jenna's forgiveness, but can he risk his heart a second time? Even if Jenna can forgive him, dare he hope for a second chance at her love?

This was a fun, easy read. I liked the characters and the setting for the story. I also connected with Jenna and the process she went through after breaking up with Ash. She had to discover who she was independent of him. She grew closer to God and it's the very thing that Ash noticed about her. And wanted it too. Despite having her heart broken and trust betrayed, Jenna didn't put her life on hold. She also realized without having gone through her breakup, she wouldn't be the person she was. "Before, when I wasn't with you, I wasn't like the way I am now…You were my catalyst for change. For finding Pastor Dan and his church. For falling in love with God. I can't believe I'm telling you this, but being dumped at the altar was the best thing that ever happened to me." When Ash just so happened to come back into her life, he had to get to know the new Jenna. It wasn't until bringing Jenna back into his life that he realized how unfulfilling it was. He realized he didn't enjoy his job and his faith had grown cold. Jenna woke Ash up and I like that. It was easy to fall into this story and hope Ash and Jenna would find a way to make it work. There's a great balance of humor, romance, and unexpectedness. The perfect weekend read!

I received a copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity for my honest review.