Today's book review is for "The Last Christian" by David Gregory .

My Thoughts
I enjoy a good science fiction book. And while I enjoy glimpses into the far future, I think my favorite type of science fiction is "next step" stories. This is my phrase to describe stories that are set in the near future. Stories where Google has branched out into building fully automated cars or where Facebook has acquired more information on each one of us then the NSA. Stories, from a technology view, that are completely plausible. David Gregory not only does this, but throws in the thought provoking idea of Christianity completely dying out in America and one missionaries calling to revive it.

This book impressed me. As a technology nut I found his vision of the near future completely believable. Especially the leap to complete virtual reality through implanted hardware within the body. To me, what makes these things believable are his bringing into the story the in-between hardware pieces that made these steps possible. Abigail, coming out of the jungle, does not have the implants. During the course of the story, we have descriptors of the helmet and devices she wore to enter into that virtual reality that others so free entered without. Technology builds on top of technology and that was present. Okay, enough geeking out.

Beyond the technology, the story was enjoyable. There was a nice blend of mystery, danger, and the thoughts of "wow this really could happen in America."

I guess to make a simple summary, let me just say I liked it. It was fast paced, held my interest, and gave me some things to ponder when it was all done. Definitely worth reading if you get a chance.

Publisher's Info
In the future, it’s possible to live forever—but at what cost?

A.D. 2088.

Missionary daughter Abigail Caldwell emerges from the jungle for the first time in her thirty-four years, the sole survivor of a mysterious disease that killed her village. Abby goes to America, only to discover a nation where Christianity has completely died out. A curious message from her grandfather assigns her a surprising mission: re-introduce the Christian faith in America, no matter how insurmountable the odds.

But a larger threat looms. The world's leading artificial intelligence industrialist has perfected a technique for downloading the human brain into a silicon form. Brain transplants have begun, and with them comes the potential of eliminating physical death altogether—but at what expense?

As Abby navigates a society grown more addicted to stimulating the body than nurturing the soul, she and Creighton Daniels, a historian troubled by his father's unexpected death, become unwitting targets of powerful men who will stop at nothing to further their nefarious goals. Hanging in the balance—the spiritual future of all humanity.

In this fast-paced thriller, startling near-future science collides with thought-provoking religious themes to create a spell-binding "what-if?" novel.

Author Bio
David Gregory is the coauthor of two nonfiction books and a frequent conference speaker. After a ten-year business career, he returned to school to study religion and communications, earning two master's degrees. David lives in Texas, where he works for a nonprofit organization.

My favorite place to buy books is Amazon and you can find the book there. Or of you are inclined, you can click here to go directly to the Multnomah web site where you will be able to download the first chapter for preview, read an author interview, or even watch a promo video.

This was book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah, a division of Random House.

On Facebook? The original post resides at www.focusedjourney.com.

Today's book review is for "Indivisible" by Kristen Heitzmann.

My Thoughts
I jumped into this book really not knowing what to expect. From the description I knew it was some sort of thriller, but you never know if that is going to hold true or not. Thankfully, I was impressed by the story. I wouldn't describe it as a story building up to a major twist, but a story that has a lot of secrets that come out more and more as you read. While I had one of the mysteries pegged from the beginning, although I confess there were a lot of clues, there were many others that left me questioning to end. Take that and throw in a couple of mutilated raccoons that have been sewn together and you have the makings for something interesting.

I guess the best testament that I can give to the book is that I wanted the story to continue. The story had a a definite ending, but I wanted to see what happened next in the life of the characters. Even if it wasn't a thriller, I would read the "next chapter" if it was ever presented to me. Whenever you finish a book and you wish there was more is always a good sign.

As we head into summer I would definitely recommend this book for anyone looking for an enjoyable psychological read.

Publisher's Info
Battling his own personal demons, Police Chief Jonah Westfall knows the dark side of life and has committed himself to eradicating it. When a pair of raccoons are found mutilated in Redford, Colorado, Jonah investigates the gruesome act, knowing the strange event could escalate and destroy the tranquility of his small mountain town. With a rising drug threat and never-ending conflict with Tia Manning, a formidable childhood friend with whom he has more than a passing history, Jonah fights for answers—and his fragile sobriety.

But he can’t penetrate every wound or secret—especially one fueled by a love and guilt teetering on madness.

Author Bio
While home schooling her four kids, Kristen Heitzmann wrote her first novel. It became one of a five book historical series. Since then, she has written three more historical novels and eight contemporary romantic and psychological suspense novels including The Still of Night, nominated for the Colorado Book Award, The Tender Vine, a Christy Award finalist and Christy Award winning Secrets. She lives in Colorado with her husband Jim, sundry family members, and pets.

My favorite place to buy books is Amazon and you can find the book there. Or of you are inclined, you can click here to go directly to the Multnomah web site were you will be able to download the first chapter for preview.

This was book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah, a division of Random House.

On Facebook? The original post resides at www.focusedjourney.com.

Today's book review is for "Radical" by David Platt.

My Thoughts
When I was offered the opportunity to review this book, I almost didn't take it. The full title is "Radical: Taking Back Your Faith From The American Dream." I don't have much respect for authors that blame America for all the evil in the world of which there are quite a few. Yet, the description piqued my interest enough to go ahead and read it. I'm glad I did. After reading it, I walk away not feeling that the book is a critique of America at all. Instead, I walk away feeling that many Christians in America live as Americans first and Christians second. The book is a challenge to all believers, although specifically American believers, to refuse to allow our culture to blind us to the way Christ has called us to live.

In a nutshell, Christ has called us to reach the world for him, not to live comfortable lives. We have been called to be dangerous, not to live danger free. The book challenges our oft misguided belief that some are called to reach a lost and dying world while some get a free pass to relax.

I barely know what to write about this book. It was challenging and convicting. More than anything, it's making me want to pray about it. No one likes a punch in the gut, but if it's God trying to get our attention we need to stop and examine it.

I'll leave it as this. You need to read this book. Then, you need to get in your Bible and pray about it.

Publisher's Info
It's easy for American Christians to forget how Jesus said his followers would actually live, what their new lifestyle would actually look like. They would, he said, leave behind security, money, convenience, even family for him. They would abandon everything for the gospel. They would take up their crosses daily...

BUT WHO DO YOU KNOW WHO LIVES LIKE THAT? DO YOU?

In Radical, David Platt challenges you to consider with an open heart how we have manipulated the gospel to fit our cultural preferences. He shows what Jesus actually said about being his disciple--then invites you to believe and obey what you have heard. And he tells the dramatic story of what is happening as a "successful" suburban church decides to get serious about the gospel according to Jesus.

Finally, he urges you to join in The Radical Experiment --a one-year journey in authentic discipleship that will transform how you live in a world that desperately needs the Good News Jesus came to bring.

Author Bio
David Platt is the pastor of The Church at Brook Hills, a four-thousand member congregation in Birmingham, Alabama. Widely regarded as an exceptional expositor, David has traveled and taught around the world. He holds two undergraduate and three advanced degrees, including a doctorate from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. David and his wife, Heather, live in Birmingham with their family.

My favorite place to buy books is Amazon and you can find the book there. Or of you are inclined, you can click here to go directly to the Multnomah web site were you will be able to download the first chapter for preview.

This was book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah, a division of Random House.

On Facebook? The original post resides at www.focusedjourney.com.

Today's book review is for "Forget Me Not" by Vicki Hinze.

My Thoughts
This book has been a tough one for me to review. It's not a bad book, but it's not great either. The story moves along at a decent pace, but sometimes I felt like the plot was being forced along and not allowed to develop naturally. And maybe I'm just extremely perceptive, probably not but I'll run with it, but I felt is was obvious from early on why Benjamin's wife and son were murdered. The other major twist, which I'll politely not even mention in case you read the book, again seemed obvious early on. In addition to those, I'm just not much for love stories that rapidly develop within matter of days. Once again, it seemed forced. Finally, I felt that scant little information was provided concerning this shadowy organization that the characters are suppose to fear. These little details hinder what overall wasn't a bad storyline.

There are some decent twists and turns that keep you intrigued. I won't deny that I was reading more chapters in a sitting than I intended to simply because I wanted to know what was going to happen next. That fact alone bodes well for any story. That's why this review is mixed. I enjoyed the story, but I think it could have been better. If you like a mystery with a little romance thrown in you'd probably appreciate the book. The call is yours.

Publisher's Info
Crossroads Crisis Center owner Benjamin Brandt was a content man—in his faith, his work, and his family. Then in a flash, everything he loved was snatched away. His wife and son were murdered, and grief-stricken Ben lost faith. Determination to find their killers keeps him going, but after three years of dead ends and torment, his hope is dying too. Why had he survived? He’d failed to protect his family.

Now, a mysterious woman appears at Crossroads seeking answers and help—a victim who eerily resembles Ben’s deceased wife, Susan. A woman robbed of her identity, her life, of everything except her faith—and Susan’s necklace.

The connections between the two women mount, exceeding coincidence, and to keep the truth hidden, someone is willing to kill. Finding out who and why turns Ben and the mystery woman’s situation from dangerous to deadly. Their only hope for survival is to work together, trust each other, and face whatever they discover head on, no matter how painful. But will that be enough to save their lives and heal their tattered hearts?

Author Bio
Vicki Hinze is an award-winning author of twenty-three novels, three nonfiction books, and hundreds of articles. Selected for Who’s Who in America in 2004 as a writer and educator, Hinze is active in Romance Writers of America and serves as a Vice President on the International Thriller Writers Board of Directors. Vicki lives in Florida with her artist husband, a retired Air Force Lieutenant Colonel. Visit www.vickihinze.com to learn more about Vicki’s books, blogs, and writing programs.


My favorite place to buy books is Amazon and you can find the book there. Or of you are inclined, you can find out more about it from the Random House web site.

This was book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah, a division of Random House.

On Facebook? The original post resides at www.focusedjourney.com.

Today's book review is by my wife Kelly and is for "An Absence So Great" by Jane Kirkpatrick.

My Thoughts
This book is the sequel to A Flickering Light, which I read before and blogged about. When I read the first book, I was not too thrilled about the story line as some of the elements of the plot I did not agree with. After reading this one I found out that it is based on the life of the author's grandmother. The story is very good. She takes the truth of her grandmother's life and makes it an enjoyable story. I recommend both books to get the full story. It was a good book.

Publisher's Info
Inspired by the engaging stories told through her grandmother’s photographs taken at the turn of the century, award-winning author Jane Kirkpatrick provides a portrait of the tension between darkness and light in the soul of a young woman pursuing her professional dreams.

Despite growing in confidence as a photographer, eighteen-year-old Jessie Ann Gaebele’s personal life is still at a crossroads. Hoping she’s put an unfortunate romantic longing behind her as “water under the bridge,” she exiles herself to Milwaukee to operate photographic studios for those ill with mercury poisoning.

Jessie gains footing on her dream to one day own her own studio and soon finds herself in other Midwest towns, pursuing her profession. But even a job she loves can’t keep those painful memories from seeping into her heart, and the shadows of a forbidden love threaten to darken the portrait of her life.

Author Bio
Jane Kirkpatrick is an award-winning author of sixteen historical novels, including A Flickering Light, the first part of Jessie Gaebale’s story, and three nonfiction titles. Known for her unique insights into the exploration of community, family and faith of actual historical women, the Wisconsin native and her husband have called their ranch in Oregon home for the past 25 years.


My favorite place to buy books is Amazon and you can find the book there. Or of you are inclined, you can find out more about it from the Random House web site.

This was book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah, a division of Random House.

On Facebook? The original post resides at www.focusedjourney.com.

The book review for today is "Start Here" by Alex & Brett Harris.

My Thoughts
"Start Here" is a companion book to the Harris brothers book "Do Hard Things", so it is probably best read after reading the first book. Full disclosure, I haven't read "Do Hard Things". I have worked with some curriculum based off of it and from my understanding, the book is a challenge to teenagers to use their teen years doing hard things for God. It's calling youth to rise above mediocrity and culture's low expectations of them. I think "Do Hard Things" answers the question of why teens should be choosing to live this way. "Start Here" then answers the question of how do I get started. Put another way, it doesn't ignite the desire to do hard things, but helps those that have already had that desire ignited get started on their journey. While this book can be read on its own, I think it makes a lot more sense to read it after having read "Do Hard Things".

As for the book itself, I think it offers a lot of practical advice for teens that want to do a little something more in this world than simply hang out at the mall and play video games. The book covers such topics as finding God's will, getting help from others, and what to do when you get overwhelmed. I particularly liked the section that dealt with how to handle yourself when people start complimenting you. Pride is such an easy thing to fall into and I'm glad that it was addressed. Another important area that is covered is the possibility that a teen might try something hard for God and it might not work out.

One nice feature is that peppered throughout the book are true stories from teens that have already taken up the challenge. Hearing the tales of youth that have accepted the challenge and then accomplished something is surely an encouragement for anyone else considering doing similar.

So my final conclusion is that it is a worthwhile book for your teenager to read, but it really only makes sense to read it after you've read "Do Hard Things".

Publisher's Info
At the age of eighteen, Alex and Brett Harris wrote Do Hard Things—and launched a movement that would change a generation. Young people around the world were ready to be inspired, ready to move beyond complacency, ready to rebel against society’s low expectations.

Now the highly anticipated companion book, Start Here, answers the questions Alex and Brett have received from thousands of teens on their worldwide conference tour and popular online community: How do I get started? What hard things does God want me to do? How do I keep from getting discouraged or burned out? What is the best way to inspire others?

Filled with stories and insights from Alex, Brett, and other real-life rebelutionaries, Start Here is a powerful and practical guide for young people who are ready to take the next step and blast past apathy. Let the rebelution continue.

Authors Bio
Alex and Brett Harris are the coauthors of the best-selling book Do Hard Things, which they wrote at age eighteen. Today the twins speak regularly to audiences of thousands on The Rebelution Tour, maintain a hugely popular online presence through their blog, TheRebelution.com, and have been featured on CNN, MSNBC, NPR, and in the New York Times. Raised in Portland, Oregon, the brothers currently attend Patrick Henry College in Virginia.


My favorite place to buy books is Amazon and you can find the book there. Or of you are inclined, you can find out more about it from the Random House web site.

This was book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah, a division of Random House.

On Facebook? The original post resides at www.focusedjourney.com.

My Thoughts
There is no doubt that music plays an enormous part in many people's lives. Matthew Turner discusses this reality in his own life, but from a perspective of a childhood rooted in an extremely strict version of Christianity. From what I gather, anything except hymns was basically considered evil. The humor and pain I felt as he discussed his family sneaking out to a Sandy Patti concert resonated with me. Not that I was ever a Sandy fan myself, but more of a closet Petra fan.

Without ever coming out and saying it, Turner questions the validity of both Christians openly judging the motives of musicians that happen to be Christian, and the musician themselves who seek fame as a so called humble servant of Christ. This hit home because I have both heard criticism of Christian musicians for their weaknesses (uh...they are human), while also seeing musicians that claimed God had called them to their ministry (and corresponding popularity), but seemingly forgetting at the same time to give them any talent.

This seems like deep and painful things to consider, but I give Turner credit for writing from his own life experiences and doing so with humor. I can't honestly say that I agree with everything, but the book gets the mental juices flowing in a simple read. With that said, I think the book is worth picking up and reading.

Publisher's Info
If you’ve ever had the opening bars of a song transport you back in time or remind you of a pivotal spiritual moment, Matthew Paul Turner’s honest—and frequently hilarious—musings will strike a chord. Straightforward and amusing, Hear No Evil is Turner’s “life soundtrack,” a compilation of engaging personal stories about how music—and music’s ability to transform—has played a key role in his spiritual life.

Groove along on his journey as young evangelical Turner attends forbidden contemporary Christian concerts, moves to “Music City” Nashville, and dreams of becoming the Michael Jackson of Christian music.

Cosmic and compelling, keen and funny, every page is a new encounter with the people, places, and experiences that have taught the music-editor-turned-author some new things about God, forced him out of his comfort zone, and introduced him to a fresh view of grace along the way.

Author Bio
Matthew Paul Turner is a blogger, speaker, and author of Churched: One Kid’s Journey Toward God Despite a Holy Mess, The Christian Culture Survival Guide, and several other popular books. After a childhood in rural Maryland, Turner attended Nashville’s Belmont University, where he received a BBA in music business, and was the editor of CCM magazine before leaving to pursue writing as a career. Turner has written for Relevant, HomeLife, Christian Single, and other magazines. He and his wife, Jessica, have one son, and live in Nashville, Tennessee.


My favorite place to buy books is Amazon and you can find the book there. Or of you are inclined, you can find out more about it from the Random House web site.

This was book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah, a division of Random House.

On Facebook? The original post resides at www.focusedjourney.com.

A book review by Kelly.

Summary
Caught up in the self-imposed pressure to do and be all the things they think a Christian woman ought to do and be, countless women are working desperately to convince everyone, including God, that they have it all together. Few have any idea that the Creator of the universe looks at them with delight even when they yell at the dog, drive a minivan littered with French fries, or think bad words about that rude clerk at the store.

A Perfect Mess offers hope to every woman who yearns for a vibrant relationship with God but worries she isn’t good enough or doesn’t do enough to merit His affection. With characteristic authenticity, speaker and author Lisa Harper shares poignant stories from her own imperfect life to showcase the real-life relevancy of the Bible in the lives of modern women.

As she guides readers on a story-driven journey through selected Psalms, they will be inspired to experience for themselves how God’s incomparable love transforms the messiness of life into a gorgeous work of grace.

Author Bio
Lisa Harper is a master storyteller whose lively approach connects the dots between the Bible era and modern life. She is a sought-after Bible teacher and speaker whose upcoming appearances include the national Women of Faith Conferences. A veteran of numerous radio and television programs and the author of several books, she also is a regular columnist for Today’s Christian Woman magazine. Lisa recently completed a master’s of theological studies from Covenant Theological Seminary. She makes her home outside Nashville.

Kelly’s Thoughts
I was able to get about half way through this book. Each chapter goes through one Psalm and helps you to see how God sees you. The questions to answer at the end of each chapter really make you reflect on what you read as well as the Psalm that the chapter focuses on. It helps you to see how much God loves you the way you are and wants you to closer to him. God does not expect us to be perfect, he just wants us to be closer to him. God wants to work in our lives to make us more like him. I really enjoyed reading this book and look forward to finishing it soon.

Here’s a link to Random House to check the book out.

On Facebook? The original post resides at www.focusedjourney.com.

A book review by Kelly.

Summary
Caught up in the self-imposed pressure to do and be all the things they think a Christian woman ought to do and be, countless women are working desperately to convince everyone, including God, that they have it all together. Few have any idea that the Creator of the universe looks at them with delight even when they yell at the dog, drive a minivan littered with French fries, or think bad words about that rude clerk at the store.

A Perfect Mess offers hope to every woman who yearns for a vibrant relationship with God but worries she isn’t good enough or doesn’t do enough to merit His affection. With characteristic authenticity, speaker and author Lisa Harper shares poignant stories from her own imperfect life to showcase the real-life relevancy of the Bible in the lives of modern women.

As she guides readers on a story-driven journey through selected Psalms, they will be inspired to experience for themselves how God’s incomparable love transforms the messiness of life into a gorgeous work of grace.

Author Bio
Lisa Harper is a master storyteller whose lively approach connects the dots between the Bible era and modern life. She is a sought-after Bible teacher and speaker whose upcoming appearances include the national Women of Faith Conferences. A veteran of numerous radio and television programs and the author of several books, she also is a regular columnist for Today’s Christian Woman magazine. Lisa recently completed a master’s of theological studies from Covenant Theological Seminary. She makes her home outside Nashville.

Kelly’s Thoughts
I was able to get about half way through this book. Each chapter goes through one Psalm and helps you to see how God sees you. The questions to answer at the end of each chapter really make you reflect on what you read as well as the Psalm that the chapter focuses on. It helps you to see how much God loves you the way you are and wants you to closer to him. God does not expect us to be perfect, he just wants us to be closer to him. God wants to work in our lives to make us more like him. I really enjoyed reading this book and look forward to finishing it soon.

Here’s a link to Random House to check the book out.

On Facebook? The original post resides at www.focusedjourney.com.

I have another book review tonight. The current book is “Holy Roller” by Julie Lyons. For any new readers, I make it clear that I receive copies of these books free to read as long as I write a review. With the busyness of my schedule, I was only able to make it part way through the book, but it’s defintely one that I’m looking forward to finishing in the next few days. I’ll give you the publiser’s summary and then chime in with a few thoughts at the end.

Summary
Julie Lyons was working as a crime reporter when she followed a hunch into the South Dallas ghetto. She wasn’t hunting drug dealers, but drug addicts who had been supernaturally healed of their addictions. Was there a church in the most violent part of the city that prayed for addicts and got results?

At The Body of Christ Assembly, a rundown church on an out-of-the-way street, Lyons found the story she was looking for. The minister welcomed criminals, prostitutes, and street people–anyone who needed God. He prayed for the sick, the addicted, and the demon-possessed, and people were supernaturally healed.

Lyons’s story landed on the front page of the Dallas Times Herald. But she got much more than just a great story, she found an unlikely spiritual home. Though the parishioners at The Body of Christ Assembly are black and Pentecostal, and Lyons is white and from a traditional church background, she embraced their spirituality–that of “the Holy Ghost and fire.”

It’s all here in Holy Roller–the stories of people desperate for God’s help. And the actions of a God who doesn’t forget the people who need His power.

My Thoughts
So far the book has captured my attention. It takes you into the life of the author while also focusing on the pastor of this church. His testimony is powerful. Being a pentecostal myself, I’m looking forward to seeing where the book is going to ultimately lead. From the description and what I’ve read so far, it’s a book testifying to an all powerful God that still actively works in the lives of people no matter where they are. The first few chapters have been worth the read. I’ll try to give my final conclusion in a few days.

Here’s a links to Amazon or the Random House website if you’d like more info.

On Facebook? The original post resides at www.focusedjourney.com.

Things have been really crazy and the blog has had to take a back seat. Here’s two quick book reviews by Kelly.

A Promise for Breanna by Al Lacy

Summary
Suspense, danger, romance and spiritual truth each play a part in this heroine’s life as she faces the man who once broke her heart and led her to mistrust men.

Kelly’s Thoughts
This was a good book.  I have read many of Al Lacy's books before and find them enjoyable.  I thought for some reason that this was a new book.  I realized about half way through that I have read this before.  I kept reading.  It had been many years since I read this the first time.  It was good this time through too.  I like reading this type of fiction because it takes you to a different time and place.

A Gathering of Finches by Jane Kirkpatrick

Summary:
A turn-of-the-century Oregon coastal couples’ life is seen through the eyes of the wife, her sister, and her Indian maid who discover reasons why money and possessions can’t buy happiness, forgiveness or relieve consequences of choices.

Kelly’s Thoughts
This book was interesting to me.  I was unsure of how it would turn out and that kept me reading.  Being historical fiction it is somewhat based on true events.  I did not like most of the book is based on an adulterous relationship.  It is not something I agree with.  I am glad that the main character finally realized she was wrong for the things she had done in her life.  It was fun learning about the time period and all that happened along the Oregon coast in around the turn of the 20 century.

As always, you can find the books on Amazon.com.

A book review by Kelly.

Description:
When a mammogram result comes back abnormal, midlife mama Summer Finley makes a snap decision to relegate fear to the back burner and fulfill a lifelong dream. Summer heads for Holland where she meets up with tulips, wooden shoes, and her best friend, Noelle.

Pen pals since fourth grade, Summer and Noelle have never met face-to-face. Through decades of heart-level correspondence, they have sustained a deep friendship. A week of adventure helps both women trade anxiety for a renewed and deeper trust in God. When Summer confides in Noelle about the abnormal medical report, Noelle finds the freedom to share a long-held heartache, and both women discover they needed each other more than they realized.

Women ages 35 and up, readers of Christian Boomer Lit, and fans of books such as The Yada Yada Prayer Group will enjoy Robin Jones Gunn’s humorous and uplifting style. True-to-life characters and moments of poignancy bring a deeper understanding of the value of life and the gift of true friends. Readers guide and bonus material included.

Author Bio:
Robin Jones Gunn is the best-selling and award-winning author of over seventy books, including the Glenbrooke, Christy Miller, Sierra Jensen, Katie Weldon, and Christy and Todd: The College Years teen series. The Sisterchicks® series has sold more than 300,000 units, bringing her total sales to more than 3.5 million books worldwide. A Christy Award winner, Robin is a popular speaker, both at home and abroad, and is frequently interviewed on radio and on television

Kelly’s Thoughts:
I really enjoyed this book. The author grabs your interest right from the start and keeps you wanting more at the end. I enjoyed reading about all the places they went to while touring in the Netherlands, especially since I had been there before. I thought the spiritual transformation that both women experience as a result of their time together was good. It was a great lesson in learning to forgive as well as learning to completely trust God. The characters learn so much from each other and have a blast being together. It was fun reading it. At times I was laughing so hard and other times I was on the verge of tears. It truly is a book about sisterhood and I would recommend it to all my friends. I have never read anything by Robin Jones Gunn before but I will be looking for more of her books in the future.

Check the book out at Amazon.

Description:
Ray Quinn is a tough, quick-witted homicide detective in love with his partner, Trisha Willis. She gives Ray something to live for—something to hope in. Until a barrage of bullets leaves Trisha murdered and Ray crippled.

Struggling with his new physical disability and severe depression, Quinn turns to whiskey, scorn, and a job as a night watchman to numb the pain. But when a pastor and dancer are found dead in an apparent murder-suicide, the pastor’s sister approaches Quinn for help.

Reluctantly, Quinn takes the case and is plunged into the perilous Orlando. Soon he discovers that, not only was the pastor murdered, but the case may be linked to his and Trisha’s ambush. Torn between seeking revenge or responsibility, Quinn is thrust into the case of his life.

Author Mark Mynheir gives readers his most profound police thriller to date with The Night Watchman (first book in The Night Watchman Private Detective Agency Series). Readers of all ages will devour this gripping murder mystery that bristles with tension and intrigue. In a taut cop-style all his own, Mynheir delivers an inside look at the thoughts, feelings, fears, and challenges police officers experience while investigating violent crimes and the lost souls who commit them.

Author Bio:
A detective with the Criminal Investigations Unit of the Palm Bay Police Department, Mark Mynheir investigates violent crimes and writes riveting Christian fiction. A U.S. Marine with a passion for martial arts and firearms training, Mark has worked on narcotics units, SWAT teams, and myriad high-risk situations. His four novels offer a realistic glimpse into the gritty world of law enforcement and the rarely seen raw emotions behind the badge. Mark lives in Florida with his wife and three children.

My Thoughts
I’ve been reviewing a lot of serious books lately so it was a nice change of pace to read a piece of fiction. “The Night Watchman” was a good read both in plot and in character development. An unwilling crippled former police detective turned night watchman who is drawn into a murder investigation makes for good reading. I will also give credit to the author for not being overly suffocating with the Christianity portrayed in the story. I know some works of Christian fiction have basically every character accepting Christ by the end. I love my Lord, but in real life not everyone accepts him. Good fiction should reflect reality. In the story, the main character begins heading in the direction of Christ, but even at the end he has a ways to go.

Overall, a good story worthy of a place in your lazy days of summer reading list.

You can check out some purchase options at Random House.

Congratulations to Todd for commenting and winning the copy of “Hero” that was reviewed last week. All entries were assigned a number and then I used random.org to pick the number of the winner. I will be getting the book out to you real soon.

I completely forgot to mention in my last post that I have a copy of the book to giveaway. Just leave a comment to this post or the actual review and you will be entered to win. I will draw the winner next Wednesday.

My next book in my ongoing book review series is “Hero” by Fred and Jasen Stoeker with Mike Yorkey. What follows is the publisher’s information and then my review.

Description
You already know it’s not easy being a single man in this culture today. But it is easy to be overwhelmed, to feel helpless and hopeless about living by God’s high standards for singles. It’s easy to cave in to the pressures of this sex-soaked world and accept defeat—blaming the media, the culture, even girlfriends who don’t know how tough it can be.

But many men have read books like Every Young Man’s Battle and Tactics and have committed themselves to stand strong and pure in the power of God, and to go on the offensive against the onslaught of negative stereotypes. Some have suffered. Some have fallen. But many have experienced victory—and you can be among them.

What makes those committed men so desirable to women? Be Her Hero is their motto. From best-selling author Fred Stoeker, along with his son Jasen, come the straightforward insight and real-life examples you’re looking for to help you take personal purity to its logical conclusion. Here’s straight truth with irrefutable evidence of what makes an ultimate hero to women who long for men of faith—men who stand by their convictions and make their world a safer and better place.

Are you ready to accept the challenge?

Authors Bios
Fred Stoeker is a best-selling author of several books, including Every Young Man’s Battle and Tactics, the president of Living True Ministries, and a popular conference speaker who challenges men to become sexually pure, to reconnect in true intimate relationship with their wives, and to train their sons to become godly men. A graduate of Stanford University, Fred lives in Des Moines, Iowa with his wife, Brenda, and their children.

Mike Yorkey, a writer living in Encinitas, California, has collaborated with Fred Stoeker in all his books for the Every Man’s series.

Jasen Stoeker is a popular conference speaker who challenges young men to be heroic in their relationships with women and to be a Christian, rather than just seem like one. Jasen is a graduate of Iowa State University with degrees in Computer Engineering and Computer Science and now lives in Minneapolis, MN, with his wife Rose.

My thoughts
I’ve read various books by Fred Stoeker and have always been challenged by them. I’m sure they don’t sit well with some people because they’re very open and honest about the struggles that men have with lust and pornography. I’ve read comments in the past mocking the books (even from so called Christians) for the books’ strong stance on Ephesians 5:3, “But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people.” I’ll be honest, there have been times where I’ve felt that it is almost impossible to live up to the standards God has commanded and that these books champion. It can be done though and the results are worth it.

While his previous books have dealt more with lust, this book tackles the issue from the perspective of being the man that women really want. A man of uncompromising standards and integrity, A man that will fight tooth and nail to preserve his purity and the purity of the women around him. Fred brings in his son’s perspective, a man that has chosen this path and had victory. The testimony is pretty amazing.

The book challenges us to lives worthy of Christ. This means taking strong stands on holiness. It means making hard choices even when those around us are willing to compromise. While the target audience is young men (single of course), it convicted me again and again as a man that has been married for several years now. It opened my eyes once again to myself and even more, it has caused me to turn my eyes to my 18 month old son. His battle is still several years away, but I need to be ready to walk with him through it.

Let me wrap up this review with one thought that hit me hard from the chapter “The Promise of Pain.” Fred writes, “Sex is not a guy’s ticket to manhood. Suffering is.” As men, we grow the most when we are put in a place of pain. We draw nearer to Christ and find true male maturity when we suffer yet remain strong. Maybe it’s just me, but that was an eye opener. The more I reflect on it the more I’m beginning to believe it. Scripture consistently tells us to be willing to suffer for the Lord. The heroes of the faith always suffered. In this fight for holiness, it will mean suffering.

This is a powerful book. I completely and totally recommend it.

Check out the book at the Random House website or buy it from my favorite bookseller Amazon.

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This week’s books are reviewed by my wife Kelly.

Publisher’s Description for “Mama’s Got a Fake I.D
Formula for identity loss:
1. Take one multifaceted, intriguing human being.
2. Bless her with a child.
3. Mix with today’s cultural assumptions.
4. Add the demands of motherhood.
5. Presto! All identity except Mom disappears.

For every woman wondering what happened to the unique combination of gifts and abilities she was known for before kids came along, Caryn Dahlstrand Rivedeneira has good news: in Mama’s Got a Fake I.D., Rivedeneira helps moms reclaim their full identity as creative beings, gifted professionals and volunteers, loving friends, children of God—and mothers.

This inspiring and practical guide shows women how to break free from false guilt, learn a new language to express who they really are, and follow God’s lead in sharing their true self with others. After all, motherhood doesn’t have to mean losing one’s identity. Instead, being a mom makes it possible for a woman to discover a more complete identity as the person God made her to be.

Author Bio:
The former managing editor of Marriage Partnership and Christian Parenting Today, Caryn Dahlstrand Rivedeneira has been a trusted voice writing and speaking to women for more than a decade. Today she is the managing editor of GiftedForLeadership.com, an online community for Christian women in leadership. Rivadeneira works from home in the Chicago suburbs, where she lives with her husband and their three children.

Publisher’s Description for Dear Mom
Every mom knows how communicating with a teenage girl can be difficult, even impossible at times. One-word answers. Defensive conversations. Daily arguments. How typical for teens to put up such barriers. All the while, moms truly long to know what their daughters really think.
Best-selling author Melody Carlson, whose books for women, teens, and children have sold more than three million copies, bridges this chasm with trusted insight. She speaks frankly in the voice of the teen daughters she’s written for and she tells it like it is: struggles with identity, guys, friendship, and even parents—it’s all here. The straight-talk to moms covers such things as “I need you, but you can’t make me admit it,” “I’m not as confident as I appear,” and “I have friends. I need a mother.”
Instead of focusing on outward behaviors, Dear Mom looks at a young woman’s heart and reveals to moms:
· how to talk to teens so they hear,
· how to connect despite the differences of perspective or years and experiences,
· and how strengthen the bond every mom and daughter ultimately wants.
The lively chapters in Dear Mom can be dipped into topically or used as a read-through tool by moms and daughters alike to understand what motivates or deflates, troubles or inspires—and just in time for Mother’s Day and all the Mother’s Days ahead.

Author Bio:
Melody Carlson is the award-winning author of more than one hundred books for adults, children, and teens, with sales totaling more than three million copies. Beloved for her Diary of a Teenage Girl and Notes from a Spinning Planet series, she’s also the author of the women’s novels Finding Alice (in production now for a Lifetime-TV movie), Crystal Lies, On This Day, These Boots Weren’t Made for Walking, and A Mile in My Flip-Flops. A mother of two grown sons, Melody lives in central Oregon with her husband and chocolate lab retriever. She’s a full-time writer and an avid gardener, biker, skier, and hiker.

Publisher’s Description for Enduring Justice
In Enduring Justice, Hanna Kessler’s childhood secret has remained buried for over two decades. But when the dark shadows of her past threaten to destroy those she loves, Hanna must face the summer that changed her life and the man who still haunts her thoughts.

Crimes Against Children FBI Agent, Michael Parker knows what it means to get knocked down. And when the system fails and a white supremacist is set free, Michael’s drive for retribution eclipses all else.

A racist’s well-planned assault forces Hanna and Michael to decide between executing vengeance and pursuing justice. When the attack turns personal, is healing still possible?

This thought-provoking novel deals with healing from sexual abuse, the balance of justice and mercy, and maintaining mixed-race friendships in the midst of racial tension. Readers who enjoy investigative thrillers by Dee Henderson, Colleen Coble, and Catherine Coulter, and who watch crime dramas like Law & Order: SVU, Criminal Minds, and Without a Trace will love this book—and the entire series.

Author Bio:
Amy Wallace is the author of Ransomed Dreams and Healing Promises, a homeschool mom, and self-confessed chocoholic. She is a graduate of the Gwinnett County Citizens Police Academy and a contributing author of several books including God Answers Moms’ Prayers and Chicken Soup for the Soul Healthy Living Series: Diabetes. She lives with her husband and three children in Georgia.

Kelly’s Reviews
“Mama’s Got a Fake I.D.
I picked up this book and thought it looked exciting. I thought it would be about how I can find my true identity. And in a way it was but it was also about being okay with not wanting to be ‘just a mom’. I am a mom who loves being just that, a mom. I truly enjoy being a mom. I love spending each and every day with my children. The book talked a lot about mothers who love being a mom as part of who they are. It almost made me feel guilty for liking being a mom. I know being a mom is not all that I am. I am so much more of a complex person, but I know that being a mom is what I am called to do and I love it. I think this book is tailored to moms who may be struggling with finding a balance between being a mom and everything else they do. It had great things to say and do to help all moms discover who they are in Christ.

“Dear Mom”
This was a good book. I did not get all of it read, but from what I was able to finish I would recommend it to moms that have teenage or soon to be teenage daughters. It will give you great insight into ways to talk with your daughter. It shows ways to open the lines of communication and how to be there for your daughter without making her resent you.

Enduring Justice
I had all these books to read about being a mother and to be honest, I’ve spent the past few couple of weeks being just that. What I’m basically saying is that I didn’t have time to read this book. Looks really good and I plan on reading it in the near future.

You can find the books on the Random House website at the following links.
Mama’s Got a Fake I.D.
Dear Mom
Enduring Justice

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This week’s books are reviewed by wife Kelly.

Publisher’s Description for “A Flickering Light”
Returning to her Midwest roots, award-winning author Jane Kirkpatrick draws a page from her grandmother’s photo album to capture the interplay between shadow and light, temptation and faith that marks a woman’s pursuit of her dreams.

She took exquisite photographs,
but her heart was the true image exposed.

Fifteen-year-old Jessie Ann Gaebele loves nothing more than capturing a gorgeous Minnesota landscape when the sunlight casts its most mesmerizing shadows. So when F.J. Bauer hires her in 1907 to assist in his studio and darkroom, her dreams for a career in photography appear to find root in reality.

With the infamous hazards of the explosive powder used for lighting and the toxic darkroom chemicals, photography is considered a man’s profession. Yet Jessie shows remarkable talent in both the artistry and business of running a studio. She proves less skillful, however, at managing her growing attraction to the very married Mr. Bauer.

This luminous coming-of-age tale deftly exposes the intricate shadows that play across every dream worth pursuing—and the irresistible light that beckons the dreamer on.

Publisher’s Description for “Aurora”
Wrap yourself in a fantastic journey, a remarkable commitment, and a spare and splendid story. Master storyteller Jane Kirkpatrick extols the beautiful treasures, unknown to a wider public, rediscovered in the Old Aurora Colony of Oregon’s lush Willamette Valley. The people and legacy of Aurora, a utopian community founded in the mid-1800s, will stir your imagination, hopes, and dreams; and remind you that every life matters—that our lives are the stories other people read first.

~Featuring~
Unique and treasured quilt pattern variations
More than 100 photographs, many never-before published, from 1850 to today
Cherished stories from Aurora descendants
Rich images of fine crafts from the Aurora Colony and private collections
An introduction by renowned American artist John Houser

Aurora is about the difference every ordinary life can make—and a beautiful celebration of a time and place in which people expressed their most cherished beliefs through the work of their imagination and hands.

Author Bio
Jane Kirkpatrick is a best-selling, award-winning author whose previous historical novels include All Together in One Place and Christy Award finalist A Tendering in the Storm. An international keynote speaker, she has earned regional and national recognition for her stories based on the lives of actual people, including the prestigious Wrangler Award from the Western Heritage Hall of Fame. Jane is a Wisconsin native who since 1974 has lived in Eastern Oregon, where she and her husband, Jerry, ranch 160 rugged acres.


Kelly’s Reviews
A Flickering Light:
I really enjoyed this story. It was fun to read and the real photographs used to help tell the story are fascinating. The author does a great job drawing you into the story using both personal narrative and third person narrative. This allows to really get inside the main character’s head and know her thoughts and feelings better. I did not want to put it down. It turned out differently then I expected and was still very enjoyable. I am looking forward to the next book based on early female photographers.

Aurora:
I did not get a chance to read all of it yet, but have enjoyed what I have read so far. This book was full of wonderful pictures. I really liked looking through each page at the pictures of beautiful quilts and other amazing things from the past.

You can find out more about “A Flickering Light” and “Aurora” at Random House.

“For Couple’s Only” is a box set containing “For Women Only” and “For Men Only.” Both books are based on research studies that were conducted on how men and woman think and feel. Don’t think that the books are just dull statistical numbers though. They are an insightful look at how the opposite sex views things and how we can better relate to each other. As always, I’ll post the publishers description and authors’ bios and then weigh in with my thoughts.

Description:
Since their debut, these revolutionary guides have sold well over a million copies, been translated into fifteen languages, and sparked much fascinating water-cooler conversation around the country. Now together in the For Couples Only boxed set, these books provide the perfect resource to help you understand what you never knew about the woman or man in your life.

Each volume is based on input from more than a thousand members of the opposite sex—including an unprecedented nationwide survey and hundreds of personal interviews. This innovative approach yields candid and surprising answers about everything you don’t “get” about your significant other—even what that person deeply wishes you knew. It also produces simple but groundbreaking awareness of how you can best love and support the one who is most important to you. [Part of me wanted to make this paragraph past tense—yielded and produced—because of the first paragraph, but that took away some of the immediacy of what the books offer. I’ll leave that up to you.]

So whether you are newly dating or have been married fifty years, get ready to know each other in a whole new way. The adventure is just beginning!

Author Bio:
Shaunti and Jeff Feldhahn hold graduate degrees from Harvard University and are popular national speakers, authors, and entrepreneurs. They are also active church members and the parents of two young children, and they enjoy every minute of living life at warp speed.

My Thoughts on “For Men Only”
Being the week it was, I only was able to make it part way through “For Men Only.” My wife was able to finish “For Woman Only.” From what I read, the topics twere right on with things I know about my wife. It was a good reminder to keep doing some of things I’ve been doing and more importantly, gave me reasons why I need to do those things. I think that is the key aspect, learning the why. I’ve got a lot more to read through but so far the book is a good read.

Kelly’s Thoughts on “For Women Only”
I really enjoyed reading For Women Only by Shaunti Feldhahn. I like to think that I know my husband pretty well and that we have a good marriage. I know that there is always room for improvement and I can honestly say I learned a few things from reading this book. It does a good job of digging into the inner lives of men and helping women understand how they are wired. It doesn’t just gloss over the topics it discusses them in depth and Feldhahn uses great illustrations and comparisons that really help women understand how men think and feel. In my reading I can say that I had several lightbulb moments where something seemed to click on in my mind of how being a man is for my husband. I would strongly recommend this book to all women. It will give you great insight into the man you love.

Buy the set at Amazon.


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This is one of the books that I didn’t get a chance to read. Being a devotional, it’s always more enjoyable to read it on a daily basis over a course of time anyway. The book that the devotional is based was written by Gary Chapman. I have read his book “The Five Love Languages” in the past and really enjoyed it. So while haven’t read this book, I’ve appreciated the author’s other works. I’ll post the information below from the publisher.

Description:
In his book Love As a Way of Life, best-selling author Gary Chapman shows readers how to cultivate a new lifestyle built around the seven characteristics of authentic love. Now in a companion devotional, he provides ninety inspirational readings to help Christians consistently live out the characteristics of love in every relationship.

Each devotional entry showcases biblical truths that guide a life of love, offering fresh insight and practical guidance in how to make love a lasting habit. Over the course of three months, readers will learn to follow God’s lead as they practice the characteristics of a loving person: kindness, patience, forgiveness, courtesy, humility, generosity, and honesty.

The Love As a Way of Life Devotional makes an ideal gift for the holidays or for any special occasion. Couples, parents, new graduates, and anyone celebrating a milestone in life will welcome this inspiring daily guide to richer, more satisfying relationships.

Author Bio:
Dr. Gary Chapman is the author of twenty-six books, including the New York Times bestseller The Five Love Languages, with more than 4 million copies in print. His daily radio program, A Love Language Minute, is broadcast on more than 100 stations nationwide. Dr. Chapman, a graduate of Moody Bible Institute, Wheaton College, Wake-Forest University, and Southwestern Seminary, serves on a church staff in North Carolina.

Pick up a copy at Amazon.

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I made it clear in a previous post on my blog that I was accepted along with many other bloggers to review books provided by a publisher. The books are given to me free of charge as long as I read and review them. If I desire, I can also receive an extra copy to give away on the blog. However, if time prohibits reading the book, the company asks that I at least post the information about the book. I’ve been blessed by this arrangement as it has given me the opportunity to read newer books coming into the Christian market that normally I just don’t have the money to buy. Even better, I’ve been able to read books that I wouldn’t normally pick up at the bookstore. The book “I Do Again” that I reviewed last time is a prime example. A book about a divorce and remarriage wouldn’t be high on my to read list, but I was surprised to find it worth my time. It impacted me. I like it when something like that happens.

Why the disclosure? Let me explain. Heading into Valentine’s Day, the opportunity was for four books. By the time I got them, I had about a week and a half to cover them all. I got the one finished and reviewed, but a Valentine dinner at church I’ve been working on has kept me busier than I thought. Therefore, I’ll be posting the information about the devotional that was offered in my next post without a full review. The other two books are a set. My wife has read most of the one and will assist me by writing some thoughts on it. I’ve read a little of the second book and will include my first impressions in the same entry.

I just wanted to make it very clear the reasons behind why and how I do book reviews, and the reasons why there might occasionally be a book posted without a review.

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This week I have the chance to review a few books dealing with relationships. Today I’m looking at “I Do Again” by Cheryl & Jeff Scruggs. As always, I’ll post the publisher’s description and the author bio before sharing my opinion.

Description:
With their professional success and adorable twin daughters, Jeff and Cheryl Scruggs looked like the perfect couple. But their polished facade concealed a widening chasm between two people unable to connect on an intimate, soul-deep level.

After years of frustration, Cheryl’s desire for emotional fulfillment led to an affair and, finally, divorce. Yet, incredibly, seven years later, Jeff and Cheryl once again stood at the altar, promising to “love, honor, and cherish” one another. A new and vibrant love had risen out of the ashes of this family’s pain.

I Do Again details the fascinating real-life story of a couple whose relationship seemed shattered beyond all hope until a spiritual awakening led them to reconsider their definitions of “happily ever after.” A riveting account of the power of prayer and redemption, this remarkable book offers renewed hope for even the most troubled marriages—and reveals why the rewards of restoration are well worth the wait.

Author Bio:
Cheryl and Jeff Scruggs are the founders of Hope Matters Marriage Ministries, and for the past several years they have shared their incredible story of a marriage restored with audiences across the nation. Jeff is an account manager with OshKosh B’Gosh, and Cheryl has served as director of the Frisco, Texas, office of the Center for Christian Counseling. They live in Dallas, Texas with their two college-age daughters.

My Thoughts
Just so it is clear up front, this book is not some dry marriage counseling textbook. It’s an autobiography of a couple that experienced the pain of divorce and then witnessed the power of God as He slowly brought them back together.

The authors make it clear from the beginning that they are not perfect people and that there are things that they did even while God was working in them that was not appropriate. Personally, it didn’t bother me. I saw it as a true picture of a relationship with God. Even as we draw close to Christ we blow it sometimes. Not always out of open rebellion, but often out of immaturity. God patiently keeps working to correct us. I give the Scruggs credit for being so open with their humanity and the way God never gave up on either of them.

With that said, I thought it was a great book. I enjoyed reading it and found myself rooting for the both of them to make it. In a world where marriages fall apart left and right as theirs did, I was cheering for their marriage to be restored. My wife will tell you it affected me because when I was finished I walked over to her and gave her a very long hug. She was enjoying the hug for a moment, then she started laughing and pushed me away. With a smile in her eyes she looked right at me and said, “You’ve been reading that marriage book again haven’t you?” She got me on that point, but I don’t mind if a book causes me to want to love my life in a better way.

Another point that the book stresses is that to be able to love another person fully, you must first be fully committed and in a loving relationship with Christ. Loving God with everything allows us to love others the way they need to be loved. This thought has been rolling around in my mind since I read it.

I’ll just close by saying the book is worth picking up and reading. It was worth my time and I think it would be a benefit to other couple’s.

You can pick up a copy at Amazon.

Read the book “Not The Religious Type” by Dave Schmelzer recently. Had some really good thoughts that really sparked my mind. I like a book that does that. Most of my thoughts have been revolving around the way we view Christianity. Is it a bubble or a journey. It really seems that many people view it as a bubble. Once you accept Christ you are in that bubble. As long as you stay in the bubble you are good. The problem that I see is that the bubble ends up being the destination. Instead of pursuing a deeper relationship with Christ, we find ourselves satisfied that we are in the bubble. As I look at people I’ve seen accept Christ and then drift away, I wonder if this was the case. Accepting Christ was the end of the road instead of being what it really is, the start of a relationship with the living Lord. The start of an incredible adventure. More later.

What better way to close out the year than with a book review. I received this book as we headed into the craziest time of the year with the commitment to review it before the year was up. I completely realize that I was three short hours from not keeping that commitment.

The book is “The Greatest Words Ever Spoken” by Steven K. Scott. This is not what I would consider a book to just sit down and read, but more of a reference work. Scott has gone through the entire New Testament and collected all the words of Christ. Then, he has grouped the sayings by topic. This is where the book’s value begins to shine. The back of the book contains a subject index. Curious about what Christ has to say concerning anxiety, turn to pages 190-193. Wondering if Christ ever talked about sickness? Check the index and then turn to pages 395-396. This is powerful when you are facing an issue and would like to know Christ’s thoughts on the matter.

I think it’s a worthwhile book to have as a resource. Below I’m going to post the publisher’s description of the book and a link if you should choose to purchase it.
Haven’t you wished you could ask Jesus any question and get his immediate help with the biggest problems you face? Now you can.

For the first time ever, all of the statements Jesus made in the New Testament have been brought together and organized under more than 200 topics. When you want to know his will in a specific area of life, or you’re seeking the answer to a perplexing question, or you are desperate for his encouragement, comfort, or wisdom–you can easily find the help you need.

The moment you turn to the appropriate topic heading, you will have access to the breadth of Jesus’ teaching on that subject. You can also use this book as a guide for studying Jesus’ wisdom on any topic of interest, such as prayer, forgiveness, eternity, anger, temptation, relationships, grace, or knowing God.

As you immerse yourself in Jesus’ words, your life and relationships will be transformed, and your faith and spiritual passion will be renewed. Let the greatest words ever spoken bring new vision, power, and joy into your life–one statement at a time.
Buy it here at Amazon.

This is a review by Kelly.

I really enjoyed reading “When the Soul Mends” by Cindy Woodsmall.  It is the third and final book in the Sisters of the Quilt series.  I was able to get the first two books to read after I began reading this book.  I read few pages and wanted to know more about Hannah and where she was coming from and what her life was like prior to the beginning of this story.  I would recommend getting the first two books before trying to read this one. When the Soul Mends does give a bit of back story in the first few chapters but it is best to read the others first.  It is worth taking the time to read the first two books.
        I enjoyed reading all three of these books.  I loved the story.  I was easily caught up in the story.  I could hardly put the books down because I wanted to know what was going to happen next.

Summary:
After receiving a desperate and confusing call from her sister, Hannah Lapp reluctantly returns to the Old Order Amish community of her Pennsylvania childhood.
        Having fled in disgrace two years earlier, she finally has found a satisfying role in the Englischer world, as well as love with Martin Palmer, a man with whom she can safely entrust her heart. But almost immediately after her arrival in Owl’s Perch, the disapproval of those who ostracized her reopens old wounds.
        As Hannah is thrown together with former fiancé Paul Waddell to work for her sister Sarah’s mental health, unexpected truths surface about the events during Hannah’s absence, and she faces an agonizing decision. Will she choose the Englischerworld and the man who restored her hope, or will she heed the call to return to the Plain Life―and perhaps to her first love?
        This intriguing final novel in the Sisters of the Quilt series is richly textured with authentic details drawn from the author’s real-life connections with Amish Mennonite and Old Order Amish families.

Cindy Woodsmall is a best-selling author, who has garnered strong praise for the first two novels in the Sisters of the Quilt series. When the Heart Cries was a finalist for the ECPA Novel of the Year in 2007 and received the Reviewer’s Choice Award from the Road to Romance website. When the Morning Comes was named among the Best Books of 2007 for Crossings Book Club. Cindy lives in Georgia with her husband of thirty years.

There is one copy of this book to give away. We’ll pick the winner Friday, December 19. Just leave a comment to this post to be entered.

Truth right up front. I signed up to review this book but then I ran out of time. Planning a weekend retreat for youth takes a ton of time. That added to the fact that the book isn’t an ordinary book. It’s not one that you can do a quick speed read through. It’s a book of questions for you answer with God. I’ve perused it and it is very different from what you’d expect. My best explanation is that it is a journaling book, but maybe even a little more than that. When I have some time here soon I want to start working through it myself. It would be a great book for a person that journals regularly or for someone that wants to start.

With all that said, I’m going to wrap up my part with two things. First, I do have two free copies to give away. Leave a comment to this post and we will draw a winner on Friday, November 14. Second, I’m going to post the info from the publisher so you can get a better idea about the book.

A new experience of God comes one question at a time in this fun and provocative journal. Made up entirely of insightful, profound, and occasionally ridiculous questions, Me, Myself, and I AM invites you to open to any page, open yourself to God, and be the author of your own story.

Questions range from spiritually intriguing— You overhear God talking about you. What do hear him saying?

To thought-provoking— You are on a long car trip with a close friend who is not a Christian and the conversation turns to faith. What is your biggest fear about what your friend will ask or say?

To challenging— Do you believe that all of Jesus’s followers have a responsibility to tell others about him?

To just plain fun— If your life before you became a Christian were a movie, its title would be: Animal House, As Good as It Gets, The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly, It’s a Wonderful Life.

Me, Myself, and I AM will entertain, inspire, and get you thinking about your spiritual life from brand new angles. Whether you use Me, Myself, and I AM as a reflective tool, a way to start conversations with friends and family, or as a spiritual time capsule to look back on years later, their own words will create a powerful journey of self-discovery.

Buy it at Amazon

This book was read and reviewed by Kelly.

I have had the opportunity to read a new book that is coming out soon. It is The Shape of Mercy by Susan Meissner.  I was given a copy of the book to read and one to give away.  More details to come after the review. First, the book’s summary.

        Women of all ages will appreciate this highly-readable, layered, and fast-paced story about self-discovery at all stages of life. With rich undertones of intrigue and romance, this contemporary novel with a historical twist explores personal blinders and how upbringing and conditioning can shape people to judge others in ways that can lead to unhappy consequences.
        Lauren Durough is a college student who finds herself on the road to self-discovery as she is hired by octogenarian Abigail Boyles to transcribe the journals of Mercy Hayworth, a seventeenth-century victim of the Massachusetts witch trials. Almost immediately, Lauren finds herself drawn to this girl who lived and died four centuries ago. The strength of her affinity with Mercy forces Lauren to take a startling new look at her own life, including her relationships with Abigail, her college roommate, and a young man named Raul. But on the way to the truth, will Lauren find herself playing the helpless defendant or the misguided judge? Can she break free from her own perceptions and see who she really is?
        Readers will identify with Lauren’s struggle to break away from society’s expectations and her attempt to strike out on her own while figuring out what parts of her own story to hold on to.

I really enjoyed reading this book.  The author does a great job of getting you hooked on the story. I enjoyed how the stories of the three women are interwoven and how Mercy's journal brings them all together.  The story is very well written and it does not end as you would expect which leaves you wanting to know more of what happens to the characters.

Lauren's struggles in the book are believable and most can easily relate to them.  It left me thinking about how my own upbringing has shaped the way I view the world.  Not that it is a bad thing, but it is important not to fall into a pattern of thinking that may cause you to think negatively.  I know that others will enjoy reading this book as much as I did.  

The contest will work pretty much the same as previous ones. Leave a comment and you are automatically entered to win. We will draw a winner this coming Saturday, October 18th.

If you don’t win, you can always buy the book here on Amazon.

In case anyone desires to know our high tech way of picking a winner, here it goes. We wrote names on slips of paper. I shook them up. My wife reached in and picked out two without looking. That was about it. Anyway, thanks for the comments and don’t forget tomorrow’s book giveaway.

The winners of the “For Young Men Only” books were Nick and David. Yeah, I know they’re both in my youth group. Part of me even thought of rigging the election to make sure one of the books traveled beyond my church, but to play fair to all involved, we did it completely random.

So congratulations Nick and David.

Don’t forget that tonight we will be drawing for the book giveaway. I’ll post the winners this evening after my youth service. Also, don’t forget that I will be posting Kelly’s review of another book on Wednesday. There is a giveaway with that one too.

I am a really big fan of Mark’s book “In a Pit With a Lion on a Snowy Day” and daily enjoy reading the thoughts he posts on his blog, so I jumped at the opportunity to review his new book here. Also, I received an extra copy that I can give away for free. More details after my review.

Most of us have no idea where we’re going most of the time. Perfect.

“Celtic Christians had a name for the Holy Spirit–An Geadh-Glas, or ‘the Wild Goose.’ The name hints at mystery. Much like a wild goose, the Spirit of God cannot be tracked or tamed. An element of danger, an air of unpredictability surround Him. And while the name may sound a little sacrilegious, I cannot think of a better description of what it’s like to follow the Spirit through life. I think the Celtic Christians were on to something….

Most of us will have no idea where we are going most of the time. And I know that is unsettling. But circumstantial uncertainty also goes by another name: Adventure.” --from the introduction.

The premise for the book is that Christianity was always meant to be an adventure as we are led by the Holy Spirit. Every day is to hold the opportunity for the unexpected. Yet, often we try to tame the Holy Spirit. We seek to have Him approve our safe choices instead of allowing Him to lead us into the unknown. No wonder that many Christians are bored with their faith. I like the way Mark puts it. We are basically trying so hard to live safe lives that it makes our guardian angels yawn.

The remedy for this incorrect way of living life? Identifying the cages that we allow ourselves to be imprisoned in and stepping out of them. These six cages are the cage of responsibility, the cage of routine, the cage of assumptions, the cage of guilt, the cage of failure, and the cage of fear. Mark tackles each one by diving into the lives of some well known individuals from the Bible.

I thought the book was an incredible read. The highest praise that I can give it is that it challenged me. Challenged me to examine if I’m playing it safe, or chasing the Holy Spirit. Challenged me to step out into the adventure. Challenged me to change.

It is a book that I’m planning on slowing down and prayerfully rereading. I really encourage everyone to pick up a copy and read it.

If you want, you can visit the website for the book to read a sample chapter or learn more about Mark. While you’re there you can download “10 Steps to Setting Life Goals” which is not only a good read but something to pray about. The site is www.chasethegoose.com.

If you go to the above website there’s a link to order the book. However, I usually use www.amazon.com for buying books and it’s available there starting August 19th.

As I said in the opening, I have a free copy of the book to give away. Here’s how it works. Post a comment to this blog entry. On Monday August 18th, I will randomly select one of the commenters to receive the book. If you are reading this post in Facebook, make sure to go to www.focusedjourney.com and post your comment there.