The Cutting Edge by Ace Collins (Review)

The Cutting Edge

by Ace Collins

(I received this book for review purposes.)

Genre- Christian / Suspense 
Published by- Abingdon Press 
Copyrighted- 2013
Number of pages- 336
Age Group- Adult
Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-1-4267-1466-5

Leslie Rhoads is very close to having the biggest modeling job of her career, but she decides to go home to ask her family’s opinions.  While she is at home she is assaulted and disfigured by a drug gang.  She is unable to be a model now and she doesn’t know what to do.  The gang members have not been incarcerated yet.

She reacquaints herself with an former classmate and meets a young girl, Angel, who also is disfigured.  Will they be able to help her or is life too much for her now?

About the Author- Ace Collins currently lives in Arkansas.  He has written more than fifty books and sold more than 1.5 million copies.  Some of his books have become movies and he has appeared on t.v.

My Thoughts- I thought The Cutting Edge was really good and I can see why Ace Collins has sold so many copies of his books. 

Leslie Rhoads was an interesting person.  I know that it can be hard to stick with what you believe in when you desire to be a supermodel, and she was doing pretty well.  I am glad she went home to ask her family their opinions before she took her latest assignment.  She did concentrate on her looks a lot though, thanks to her mother and that was harming her self-worth. 

It is important to be a pretty person on the inside and I am glad she was able to learn that lesson, too bad she had to be so badly harmed though.  I really liked Angel and Hunter.  The three of them helped each other out and God was able to be important in their lives.

I would recommend this book to people who like suspense, but I think everyone would like to read it.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received The Cutting Edge, by Ace Collins, for free from Abingdon Press and the Early Reader Program.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.  All links were current when posted.

Carolina Reckoning by Lisa Carter (Review)

Carolina Reckoning

by Lisa Carter

(I received this book for review purposes.)

Genre- Fiction / Christian / Suspense
Published by- Abingdon Press 
Copyrighted- 2013
Number of pages- 336
Age Group- Adult
Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-1-4267-5797-6

Almost the same day that Alison Monaghan learns of her husband’s infidelity, he is murdered.  Frank, her husband, is found near Weathersby Historic Park where he was on the board of directors and she is a volunteer garden docent.  Homicide detective Mike Barefoot is immediately suspicious of her, but over time he changes his mind and begins to like her.

Alison wants to clear herself of the murder, so she gets a job at the Weathersby Historic Park.  Detective Barefoot keeps an eye on her.  Will he be able to keep her safe and find the murderer?

About the Author- Lisa Carter currently lives in North Carolina with her husband.  She has taught at many different age levels and is a member of the ACFW and RWA.

My Thoughts- Carolina Reckoning, by Lisa Carter, was the type of book I love to read, mystery with a little romance.

Alison Monaghan, the deceased’s wife and now the suspect, was a very courageous person.  I don’t think I could have gone to work near the place where someone special was murdered, like she did.  She even spent a lot of time with people who could have murdered Frank, the husband.

I liked her two children, best friend, and Homicide detective Mike Barefoot.  They were supportive and courageous as well.  They are the type of people I would like to have in my corner when things aren’t going well.

This book was excellent.  I recommend Carolina Reckoning to anyone who likes suspense and romance.  I would read more books if this was a series.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Carolina Reckoning by Lisa Carter for free from Abingdon Press.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.  All links were current when posted.

Letters from Ruby by Adam Thomas (Review)

Letters from Ruby

by Adam Thomas

(I received this book for review purposes.)

Genre- Fiction / Christian / General 
Published by- Abingdon Press 
Copyrighted- 2013
Number of pages- 320
Age Group- Adult
Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-1-4267-4137-1

Reverend Calvin Hooper, newly ordained Episcopal priest, has arrived at his new parish in Victory, West Virginia.  It is nothing like he expected.  The parishioners are older and his inexperience begins to show.  Ruby Redding is part of a women’s group that he meets with regularly and he makes a connection with her that even lasts after he leaves.

Is Rev. Hooper going succeed at his new parish?

About the Author- Adam Thomas is an ordained Episcopal priest, one of the youngest men ever.  His blog is www.wherethewind.com.

My Thoughts- Letters from Ruby, by Adam Thomas, was heartwarming and inspirational.

Reverend Calvin Hooper’s character was written perfectly as a newly ordained priest.  I was glad to see Ruby Redding helping him.  He was certainly lost as to what to do with a new and elderly congregation.

Rev. Hooper spent a lot of time with the older women’s group of the church.  While I thought it was interesting, I would have enjoyed more interaction with the men of the church.

I think that Ruby’s letters would have made an excellent book on their own.  They were long and spoke volumes about her life and her relationship with Whit, her husband.

Since this book was written by a man and has a man for the main character, I wish it had been a better book for men to read.  I would say that Letters from Ruby would be best for women.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Letters from Ruby by Adam Thomas for free from Abingdon Press.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.  All links were current when posted.

Boot Camp: Equipping Men with Integrity for Spiritual Warfare by Jason Hardin (Review)

Boot Camp: Equipping Men with Integrity for Spiritual Warfare (IMAGE series, Book 1)

by Jason Hardin

(I received this book for review purposes.)

Genre- Religion / Christian / Nonfiction

Published by- DeWard Publishing Company

Copyrighted- 2009

Number of pages- 244

Age Group- Adult (Men)

Description of book- paperback (ISBN 978-0-9798893-7-0, $13.99)

The men of this world are to be a part of the Lord’s army, not to live in the way of the world.  Boot Camp: Equipping Men with Integrity for Spiritual Warfare, by Jason Hardin, is the first book in the IMAGE series for men.

This book is divided up into three parts “The Beginning of Our Journey,” “As Integrity is Born, What Must Be Put to Death?” and “The Lord’s Army.”  Some of the subjects discussed are hypocrisy, idolatry, and selfishness.

About the author- Jason Hardin currently lives in Ohio with his wife and three daughters.  He words with the Laurel Canyon church of Christ.

My thoughts- I think that every man needs to read Boot Camp: Equipping Men with Integrity for Spiritual Warfare, by Jason Hardin.  Too many men live only for this world and not for Christ.  The IMAGE series is very important.  This book is a great beginning to what I feel is a very important series. 

Most men should be able to relate to the boot camp, and the military aspect makes it easier to read than something academic.  Part One is the part that starts with the boot camp theme and it is carried into part Two, but is strongest again in Part Three, with putting on the Lord’s armor.

I recommend this book to all men.  I am planning on sharing this book with the men in my life.  I will be saving this book for my son when he is older.  Please pick up a copy today.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Boot Camp: Equipping Men with Integrity for Spiritual Warfare by Jason Hardin for free through Cross Focused Reviews.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.  All links were current when posted.

Memoirs of the Way Home by Gerald M. Bilkes (Review)

Memoirs of the Way Home: Ezra and Nehemiah as a Call to Conversion

by Gerald M. Bilkes

(I received this book for review purposes.)

Genre- Religion / Christian / Nonfiction

Published by- Reformation Heritage Books

Copyrighted- 2013

Number of pages- 188

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback (ISBN 978-1-60178-265-6, $12.00)

Do you know much about Ezra and Nehemiah?

Memoirs of the Way Home, by Gerald M. Bilkes, is a Bible study based on them.  This study shows how important they were and how their teachings and ideas can be applied in our lives today.

There are study questions at the end of each chapter and lots of Bible verses to support his text.

About the author- Gerald M. Bilkes is currently a professor of New Testament and biblical theology at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary. 

My thoughts- I really enjoyed reading and learning about Ezra and Nehemiah in Memoirs of the Way Home, by Gerald M. Bilkes.

When I read a nonfiction book, I always enjoy having study questions at the end of each chapter.  The questions at the end of each of the chapters in this book were really helpful for me to go over the chapter and figure out how to apply the information to my life. 

I liked the part on Nehemiah the best, because I thought there was a lot more information given so that I would know how to apply it to my own life.  My favorite chapter was, “Submitting to God’s Yoke,” because it discussed how we all need to work together and it has to be everyone.  In the church nobody is too important to do the work and nobody is too insignificant.  We all need to do the work.

I highly recommend this book to all adults.  Please have your Bibles handy, so you can read the chapter in the Bible before you read it in the book.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Memoirs of the Way Home: Ezra and Nehemiah as a Call to Conversion by Gerald M. Bilkes for free through Cross Focused Reviews.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.  All links were current when posted.

Ephesians: Discovering Your Identity and Purpose in Christ (A Discover Together Bible Study) by Sue Edwards- Lesson Six: Tripping Over Your Tongue? Talk Your Walk!

Ephesians: Discovering Your Identity and Purpose in Christ (A Discover Together Bible Study)

by Sue Edwards

(I received this book for review purposes.)

I’m excited to bring to you a Bible study that I am participating in by Sue Edwards.  I participated in her 1 Peter Bible study.  It was rewarding.  I worked on the Ephesians Bible study this past week with “Lesson Six: Tripping Over Your Tongue?  Talk Your Walk!”  I’m excited to share my thoughts with you.
This week’s focus was learning about the importance of watching our tongue and words.  I read Ephesians 4:17-32.  The memory verse was Ephesians 4: 29.
“Pay Attention, Please!”

• Paul is adamant that we are not to walk in the vanity of our minds.  According to Paul, pagans would not think of the right things in life or talk the right way.

“Off With the Old”

• No more old conversations, get rid of the old.
• We all need to get rid of the negatives things we say.  

“True Words”

• Paul’s first instructions are for us to tell the truth to each other.  Some ways we are false with others is when we don’t tell them the truth about their actions.
• We need to be truthful, because it causes distrust. 
• Paul said to speak truth in love, because if it is said in a mean tone it can make the problem worse.

“Taming Destructive Anger”

• Don’t sin when you are angry. 
• I think that we shouldn’t go to sleep angry, because if you do you will probably wake up angry or something could happen to either you or the person you are angry with.
• If you don’t handle your anger properly you can teach it to other people.

“Building Others Up”

• Paul tells the thief to steal no more and go to work so he could give to others.
• Your words should be used to build people up. 
• When I don’t control my tongue it makes the Holy Spirit sad.  I feel sad when I make the Holy Spirit sad.

“Forgiving One Another”

• We need to be tenderhearted.  If we are tenderhearted, we are more likely to be naturally nice.  We should forgive, since God forgave us. 
• This week I need to think very hard before I speak.
• If I build others up, they will build others up.

Genre- Bible Study 
Published by- Kregel Publications 
Copyrighted- 2012
Number of pages- 128
Age Group- Adult
Description of book- Paperback, listed price- $12.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4309-1
Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Ephesians by Sue Edwards for free from Open Book Promotions and Kregel for this Bible Study.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.  All links were current when posted.

Mistaken by Karen Barnett (Review)

Mistaken: First Impressions are Never What They Seem

by Karen Barnett

(I received this book for review purposes.)

Genre- Fiction / Christian / Historical 
Published by- Abingdon Press 
Copyrighted- 2013
Number of pages- 352
Age Group- Adult
Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-1-4267-7449-2

During Prohibition, honest men became crooked, and in Mistaken, by Karen Barnett, it is Laurie Burke’s brother, Johnny.  Daniel Shepherd is back in town and Laurie is convinced he is rumrunning with her brother.  Daniel thinks she is rumrunning with Johnny.  Federal agent, Samuel Brown, has come to town too, determined to catch everyone who is rumrunning.

Laurie finds herself falling for both men, but which one is the one for her?

About the Author- Karen Barnett currently lives in Oregon with her husband and children.  She has been published in Guideposts and Ladybug magazines.  You can find more at www.cannotbeshaken.blogspot.com.

My Thoughts- I should never start reading books when I go to bed, because I usually can never put them down.  That was exactly what happened with Mistaken, by Karen Barnett.  The Prohibition theme along with captivating characters like Laurie Burke, her brother, Johnny, and Daniel Shepherd were what kept me reading.

The most interesting part to me, aside from the Prohibition, was the relationship between Laurie and Daniel.  They never told each other the truth about themselves until much later in the book.  They could have eliminated so many problems if they had told each other the whole story.  The same could be said for the relationship between Johnny and Laurie.  Their examples made it concrete to me that I always need to say everything that is happening in my life to my family, no secrets.

I enjoyed this book so much, that there was nothing I disliked.

I recommend this book to adults, I believe that women would prefer Mistaken more than men.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Mistaken: First Impressions are Never What They Seem by Karen Barnett for free from Abingdon Press.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.  All links were current when posted.

Martyr’s Fire by Sigmund Brouwer (Review)

Martyr’s Fire (Book 3 of Merlin’s Immortals)

by Sigmund Brouwer

(I received this book for review purposes.)

 

Genre- Fiction / Young Adult

Publisher- WaterBrook Press

Copyrighted- 2013

Number of Pages- 220

Age Group- Young Adult

Description of Book- Paperback, $7.99, ISBN: 978-1-4000-7156-2 

In Martyr’s Fire, by Sigmund Brouwer, the Priests of the Holy Grail take control of the castle at Magnus and Thomas is forced to escape.  Gervaise helps him escape and tells him of a cave where he can go to learn more.  He finds a puppy, who keeps him company as he decides what to do next and finds people who he is determined belong to the Druids (Priests of the Holy Grail).  Katherine and Hawkwood, part of the Merlins, not the Druids, have been trying to keep Thomas safe.  They are also trying to convince him that he is part of the Merlins. 

Will Thomas believe Katherine and Hawkwood? 

About the Author- Sigmund Brouwer currently lives with his wife and children in both Alberta and Tennessee.  He has more than three million books in print.  Brouwer has written books for children and adults.

 My thoughts-

Martyr’s Fire, by Sigmund Brouwer, was an excellent book.  I have read the first book in the series, The Orphan King, but missed the second book, Fortress of Mist.  I found that while it would have been fun to read book two, it wasn’t necessary for knowing the story line.  I was glad I had read at least one of the books, because without it I would not have understood what was happening and why.

This book would work well for young men and women, since there was a young man and a young woman as main characters, Thomas and Katherine.  It was great to read a book that was geared toward all young adults.  The cover of the book even showed both of them and the back copy mentioned both of them.

Brouwer did an excellent job writing this book and I think all young adults would enjoy this book and so would adults.  I would encourage you to pick up a copy today.

Informational and Purchasing Links-

Martyr’s Fire -   http://www.amazon.com/Martyrs-Fire-Book-Merlins-Immortals/dp/1400071569/

Sigmund Brouwer’s Website - http://www.sigmundbrouwer.com/

Participants’ links:

• Red Bissell
•  Beckie Burnham
• Theresa Dunlap
• Emma or Audrey Engel
• April Erwin
•  Victor Gentile
• Nikole Hahn
• Becky Jesse
• Jason Joyner
• Carol Keen
• Krystine Kercher
•  Rebekah Loper
•  Jennette Mbewe
•  Amber McCallister
•  Shannon McDermott
•  Meagan @ Blooming with Books
• Rebecca LuElla Miller
• Nathan Reimer
• Jojo Sutis
• Steve Trower
• Phyllis Wheeler
• Deborah Wilson
•  Rachel Wyant

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received a free copy of Martyr’s Fire, by Sigmund Brouwer to review.  I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way.  The opinions I have expressed are my own.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations.  I am part of CSFF Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.

Godonomics by Chad Hovind (Review)

Godonomics: How to Save Our Country –and Protect Your Wallet- Through Biblical Principles of Finance

by Chad Hovind

(I received this book for review purposes.) 

Genre- Christian Living / Finance

Published by- WaterBrook Multnomah

Copyrighted- 2013

Number of pages- 230

Age Group- Adult and Teen

Description of book- hardback, list price $21.99, ISBN: 978-1-60142-477-8

Many countries on this earth are having economic difficulties, and the United States is no exception.  Godonomics, by Chad Hovind, tells us how to use the economic principles God shows us in the Bible.

Currently the United States in developing a socialist economic system, which puts the government and what they can do before the individual.  The country was designed to have free-market capitalism.  Biblical principles are supported when there is free-market capitalism.

This book shows in nine parts how to begin to have a better economic system in your house and how it is not a conservative or liberal issue.

About the author- Chad Hovind currently is the lead pastor of Horizon Community Church.  He is the creator of the Godonomics DVD curriculum series and he Fast Track Bible DVD.

My thoughts- There is no doubt in my mind that the United States is in an economic crisis.  There are many people out of work, in debt, or who have given up.  We can’t forget about the debt of the country too, trillions of dollars.  We need to get back to the system that our Founding Fathers set-up or even better the true way that God shows us in the Bible.

Godonomics, by Chad Hovind, shows us that way.  I think this book is a must have for everyone.  It is not about what you believe in either religion or politics, it is simply about an economic system that works and was proven to work when the county began.  That was long before all the programs were developed the less fortunate.

I did not take any economics classes when I was in school, but I think that any econ. teacher needs to read this book.  They also need to teach it to their students if possible.  I think everyone else needs to read this book too!

Resources-

• Author's Site
• More Info
• Read Chapter One
• Author Bio

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Godonomics, by Chad Hovind, for free from the WaterBrook Multnomah “Blogging For Books” program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Ephesians: Discovering Your Identity and Purpose in Christ (A Discover Together Bible Study) by Sue Edwards- Lesson Five: Sit Down to Walk

Ephesians: Discovering Your Identity and Purpose in Christ (A Discover Together Bible Study)

by Sue Edwards

(I received this book for review purposes.)

I’m excited to bring to you a Bible study that I am participating in by Sue Edwards.  I participated in her 1 Peter Bible study.  It was rewarding.  I worked on the Ephesians Bible study this past week with “Lesson Five: Sit Down to Walk.”  I’m excited to share my thoughts with you.

This week’s focus was the way we live our daily lives.  I read Ephesians 4:1-16.  The memory verses were Ephesians 4: 2-3.

“Four Imperatives”

• The four qualities Paul mentioned are, lowliness (humble), meekness (submissiveness), long suffering (patiently enduring wrongs), and forbearing (patient, restrained). 
• I would have to say that my greatest struggle is with patience. 
• These characters are important in the church, because without them everyone will be there just for themselves.

“Unity of the Spirit”

• Paul said to keep the unity of the Spirit.  Unity in church is important, because otherwise people will leave and nobody will want visit there.  We can’t do unity ourselves, we need God to do it.
• The parts that bond all believers together are one body, one spirit, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God, one Father. 

“Spiritual Gifts”

• Verse seven begins with the word but which means however.  Christ is the giver of our gifts and as a result freedom.
• There are many gifts; apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, teachers, ministry, exhortation, wisdom, knowledge, healing, faith, miracle worker, discerning of spirits, speaking in tongues,  and interpreting of tongues.

“Core Four”

• My gifts are pastoring, helping (tie) and it is also a tie with faith, encouragement, and writing.  These gifts should work together to help me live for Christ.
• I am not always using these gifts, some are dormant.  The gifts I am using right now are pastoring and encouragement, because of my children and homeschooling them.  I need to make sure I am actively using my gifts in a positive manner.
• I think that if spiritual gifts are overemphasized then people can become prideful.

“Secure and Growing Together”

• If we work together with our gifts we will be unified in Christ. 
• We will not be children tossed about and deceived.  If you are tossed around then you need to read the Bible and form your own opinions.

“Truthing in Love”

• We need to speak everything in love, even the disciplining, because it will be better received.  I sometimes struggle, because it is hard to show love in attitudes when you are not receiving the love.
• You will grow in Christ when walking in truth and love.
• The Holy Spirit is telling me to use my gifts in truth and love.

Genre- Bible Study 
Published by- Kregel Publications 
Copyrighted- 2012
Number of pages- 128
Age Group- Adult
Description of book- Paperback, listed price- $12.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4309-1

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Ephesians by Sue Edwards for free from Open Book Promotions and Kregel for this Bible Study.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.  All links were current when posted.

Renewed by Lucille Zimmerman (Review)

Renewed: Finding Your Inner Happy in an Overwhelmed World

by Lucille Zimmerman

(I received this book for review purposes.)

Genre- Christian Life / Personal Growth 
Published by- Abingdon Press 
Copyrighted- 2013
Number of pages- 198
Age Group- Adult
Description of book- paperback, listed price- $15.99, ISBN 978-1-4267-4860-8

Are you having a hard time balancing your life?  Renewed,  by Lucille Zimmerman, will help you learn the best ways to balance your life.

Zimmerman has included lists of ways to integrate each idea into your life.  Some ways to become renewed include solitude, play, and exercise.  There is a section at the end of the book where you can take notes and make lists.

About the Author- Lucille Zimmerman currently lives in Colorado with her husband.  They have two adult children.  She is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and has a private practice and is an affiliate faculty member at Colorado Christian University.  You can learn more about her at www.LucilleZimmerman.com. 

My Thoughts- Reading Renewed, by Lucille Zimmerman, helped me find peace and happiness.  I’m feeling renewed!

I liked how it was easy to read, yet had very informational text.  Some of the topics included being renewed through connection, exercise, solitude, and healthy boundaries.  My favorite chapter was about solitude.  I am fortunate that I am able to spend a great deal of time with my children, but sometimes I need time to myself.  Over the past year my husband has been spending time with them on the weekends and I have taken advantage of that to enjoy the solitude.  It has helped me enjoy my relationship with my family even more.

I enjoyed reading and embedding the tips at the end of each chapter in my mind.  I am going to make sure I keep thinking about them.

I highly recommend Renewed to everyone.  Please buy a copy today.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Renewed: Finding Your Inner Happy in an Overwhelmed World, by Lucille Zimmerman, for free from Abingdon Press.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.  All links were current when posted.

Wrestling with Tom Sawyer by L. L. Samson (Review)

Wrestling With Tom Sawyer (The Enchanted Attic)

By L. L. Samson

(received for review purposes)   

Genre- Juvenile Fiction / General

Published by- Zonderkidz

Copyrighted- 2013

Number of pages- 192

Age Group- 9-12 years-old

Physical description of book- paperback, list price $7.99, ISBN: 978-0-310-74057-5

In Wrestling With Tom Sawyer, L. L. Samson, it is time for Aunt Portia and Uncle Augustus’s monthly party, the theme is Mark Twain.  The circle is ready to bring somebody from literature.  The teens, Ophelia and Linus (twins), along with Walter have decided to Tom Sawyer.

The teens have found a secret tunnel under their school and need Tom’s help to find the some of the town’s inhabitant’s missing jewelry.  There is trouble in the tunnels, Joe, from the novel, is there.

What are they all going to do?  Will Tom make it back to the circle in time?

Click here for a sample.

About the author- L. L. Samson currently lives in Kentucky with her family.  She has been writing for a long time and so has her husband.  Samson has written over 25 books.

My thoughts- I have read all the books in The Enchanted Attic series, by L. L. Samson.  I have enjoyed reading all of them.  They keep getting better.  Wrestling With Tom Sawyer was the best one so far.  There was a lot of detail and the maturing of Ophelia, Linus, and Walter made the story even better.  I thought it was great that they didn’t need the adult’s advice and help as much.  Two things I am curious about are a possible relationship between Ophelia and Walter and what will happen between Cato and Linus.  Cato had been causing a lot of trouble with the circle and had brought in the antagonists from the stories into the children’s life.

Once again Samson has made me want to read the book she has based her book on.  I don’t know if it was her intent, but it has happened with all of the books in the series.  I highly recommend this book tween and teen boys and girls.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Wrestling With Tom Sawyer, by L. L. Samson, for free through DJC Communications.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.  All links were current when posted.

Merlin’s Blade by Robert Treskillard (Review)

Merlin’s Blade (The Merlin Spiral)

By Robert Treskillard 

(received for review purposes)   

Genre- Juvenile Fiction / General

Published by- Zondervan

Copyrighted- 2013

Number of pages- 428

Age Group- Teens

Physical description of book- paperback, list price $9.99, ISBN: 978-0-310-73507-6

Merlin’s Blade, by Robert Treskillard, takes place in fifth-century Britain.  The druids are taking advantage of a powerful black rock that fell with a meteorite to overpower the people of the village.  The meteorite harms the Christian faith which has been gaining new followers.

In this village lives a half-blind, young man, Merlin.  Merlin has to use his blindness to his advantage to save his family, village and the Christian faith in Britain.  Will he succeed?

Some extras are maps, pronunciation guide, and glossary.

Click here for a sample.

About the author- Robert Treskillard currently lives in Missouri with his wife and youngest child.  He has a BA in Biblical; Theological Studies.

My thoughts- Merlin’s Blade, by Robert Treskillard, was about some of my favorite subjects Merlin, druids, and King Arthur.

Although this book had over 300 pages, it was a great read.  I know adults will enjoy this book as will young adults.  The readers will also like the extras like the maps, pronunciation guide, and glossary, like I did.  When I am reading books that contain unfamiliar words, I really enjoy knowing how to say them and what they mean.

This story is a different version than the usual Merlin and King Arthur story and I thought it was great.  My favorite part was the strength of Christianity and its clash with the druids.  The meteorite and the power it held over people (with the druids help) represented to me, Satan and things in our daily lives that can control us.  We all need to be mindful of what we focus on.  I was proud of Merlin and his strength, he was even half-blind and young.

I recommend Merlin’s Blade to young adults and adults who enjoy the Merlin and King Arthur legacy.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Merlin’s Blade, by Robert Treskillard, for free through DJC Communications.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.  All links were current when posted.

Unraveling by Elisabeth Klein Corcoran (Review)

Unraveling: Hanging Onto Faith Through the End of a Christian Marriage

by Elisabeth Klein Corcoran

(I received this book for review purposes.)

Genre- Christian / Nonfiction / Christian Living 
Published by- Abingdon Press 
Copyrighted- 2013
Number of pages- 240
Age Group- Adult
Description of book- paperback, listed price- $15.99, ISBN 978-1-4267-7027-2

In Unraveling, by Elisabeth Corcoran, you will learn what she has gone through in her divorce and how she made it through each emotion and situation in chronological order. 

Corcoran wrote short chapters about emotions and situations such as gratitude, health, fear, and more.  The short chapters begin with a short piece from her journal then continues with the text and concludes with a prayer, “A Next Good Step,” and Set Your Mind On.”

About the Author- Elisabeth Klein Corcoran has led missionary trips with Samaritan’s Purse.  She speaks at MOPS conferences and Hearts at Home.  She is also a women’s ministry leader.

My Thoughts- I thought Unraveling, by Elisabeth Klein Corcoran, was a book that any woman going through a divorce should read.

I appreciated her personal stories and all the different emotions and situations that were covered.  I don’t think there were any emotions or situations left out.  She included the positive emotions like joy and relief and the negative ones like sadness and grief.

I thought it was interesting how Corcoran set up the chapters in the chronological order in which she experienced them.  I liked the excerpts from her diary and the beginning of each chapter and the prayer, “A Next Good Step,” and “Set Your Mind On” at the end of the chapter.

I only wish there were more Bible verses in each chapter to help the reader find solace in God’s word.

I recommend Unraveling to women who are going through a divorce.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Unraveling: Hanging Onto Faith Through the End of a Christian Marriage by Elisabeth Klein Corcoran for free from Abingdon Press and the Early Reader Program.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.  All links were current when posted.

The Soul of the Rose by Ruth Trippy (Review)

The Soul of the Rose

by Ruth Trippy

(I received this book for review purposes.)

Genre- Christian / Fiction / Romance 
Published by- Abingdon Press 
Copyrighted- 2013
Number of pages- 336
Age Group- Adult
Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-1-4267-6749-4

In The Soul of the Rose, by Ruth Trippy, Celia Thatcher has recently moved to work in a bookstore in Massachusetts.  There she finds the peace she has been looking for and the attention of two men.  Charles Herrod tells her religious views unlike any she has heard.  The reclusive Edward Lyons has turned from God and his faith.

Who will Celia chose? 

About the Author- Ruth Trippy currently lives in Florida where she has taught high school language arts.  She has also worked as a Public Service Director for a radio station.

My Thoughts- The Soul of the Rose, by Ruth Trippy, was intriguing.  I wanted to learn more about Celia Thatcher and Edward Lyons.

I have not read many books where the romance begins over books.  Trippy did an excellent job of melding the love of books, the need for the love of God, and the need for others.

Celia was an admirable character, because of her strong faith and how she knew she shouldn’t be yoked to an unbeliever, Edward.  She took the time and space that she and Edward needed so they might have a relationship based on God.  I also admired Edward for taking the time and respecting Celia for her thoughts and beliefs.

I highly recommend this book.  I was captivated by Celia, Edward, and the 1876 Massachusetts they lived in. 

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received The Soul of the Rose by Ruth Trippy for free from Abingdon Press and the Early Reader Program.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.  All links were current when posted.

Annie’s Christmas Wish by Barbara Cameron (Review)

Annie’s Christmas Wish (Quilts of Lancaster County, Book 4)

by Barbara Cameron

(I received this book for review purposes.)

Genre- Christian / Fiction / Romance 
Published by- Abingdon Press 
Copyrighted- 2013
Number of pages- 304
Age Group- Adult
Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-1-4267-3389-5

In Annie’s Christmas Wish, by Barbara Cameron, Jenny needs to go back to New York City to accept an award.  Her Amish family is going with her.  Her stepdaughter, Annie, is really excited to go there.  She has been wanting to go there for years.  Jenny’s career is writing and over time that is what Annie has decided she would like to do too.

Aaron, one of Annie’s friends, comes along and wonders if the city will pull Annie away from him.  What will happen to the relationship Annie and Aaron began to develop before they traveled to New York City?

About the Author- Barbara Cameron currently lives in Florida and has written more than thirty-five nonfiction and fiction books.

My Thoughts- I have enjoyed reading the other books in the Quilts of Lancaster County series, so I was excited to read Annie’s Christmas Wish, by Barbara Cameron.

I have always enjoyed reading about the Amish lifestyle, because they base their lives on God’s word and their culture is based on agriculture.  Their faith in God has always seemed so strong and they show it in what they do. 

Cameron did an excellent job of portraying the Amish and what it would be like for them in a big city.  It would certainly be a change for a young lady like Annie who had never been to a large city.  I was glad to learn about Annie’s strength and dedication to her faith in God and her family.

This would be an excellent book to read during the Christmas season or any time.  Find a copy today.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Annie’s Christmas Wish by Barbara Cameron for free from Abingdon Press and the Early Reader Program.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.  All links were current when posted.

Daybreak: A Guide to Overcoming Temptation by Nathan Ward (Review)

Daybreak: A Guide to Overcoming Temptation

by Nathan Ward

(I received this book for review purposes.)

Genre- Religion / Christian / Nonfiction

Published by- DeWard Publishing Company

Copyrighted- 2013

Number of pages- 114

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback (ISBN 978-1-936341-59-7, $8.99)

Temptation is something we all face.  Nathan Ward shows us in his book, Daybreak, how we can overcome temptation.

One of his first sermons was based on temptation and he knew he wanted to write more.  That one sermon turned into more sermons and this book.  Ward divided this book into the call, the enemy, and how to fight the temptation.  It will help you live in the light of the Lord and avoid Satan’s darkness.

About the author- Nathan Ward currently lives in Florida with his wife and children.  He is a professor of Biblical studies at Florida College in Temple Terrace. 

My thoughts- I enjoyed reading Daybreak, by Nathan Ward.  Temptation is something we all face on a daily basis and this book helped me learn where the temptation comes from and how to fight it.

My favorite part was learning how to fight temptation in every way.  I need to learn those ways.  I also liked the use of Bible verses and references to where I could find the information in the Bible.  It was important in a book like this to have the verses, so we could see the proof ourselves.

I think that questions at the end of each chapter would have been very beneficial.  Questions would have helped me put the information into perspective and how to implement it into my daily life.

I recommend this book.  We all need to know how to fight and win against temptation.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Daybreak: A Guide to Overcoming Temptation by Nathan Ward for free through Cross Focused Reviews.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.  All links were current when posted.

Ephesians: Discovering Your Identity and Purpose in Christ (A Discover Together Bible Study) by Sue Edwards- Lesson Four: Sit Down Together

Ephesians: Discovering Your Identity and Purpose in Christ (A Discover Together Bible Study)

by Sue Edwards

(I received this book for review purposes.)

I’m excited to bring to you a new Bible study that I am participating in by Sue Edwards.  I participated in her 1 Peter Bible study.  It was rewarding.  I worked on the Ephesians Bible study this past week with “Lesson Four: Sit Down Together.”  I’m excited to share my thoughts with you.

This week’s focus was coming together in Christ, all of us.  I read Ephesians 2: 11-22.

“The Peacemaker”

• Both the Ephesian Jews and Gentiles are now together in Christ.  Christ can help them overcome their problems.  He is our peacemaker, so we should not make barriers in the church.  I do not dislike anyone based on race, culture, or tradition.

“Fulfilling the Law”

• Christ abolished the law that kept the Gentiles separate.  When Christ did that it means that the Gentiles are now included and we should all work together.  We all have access to God through the Holy Spirit.

“The New Family”

• If I am feeling excluded, I know that I am part of God’s family.  We are all part of God’s family, so nobody is a stranger.  Jesus is the cornerstone and the apostles and prophets are the foundation of the church.  They left us with the Holy Spirit to help bind us.  We are the bricks in the building.  I have never witness a severe disagreement or church split.

“Optional: Read Ephesians 3:1-13”

• The mystery Paul discusses is that the Gentiles are now equal to the Jews and can be a part of God’s family.  God wants the heavenly beings to know we are part of his family.  Paul suffers for the Ephesians, but he is doing it for their glory.

Genre- Bible Study 
Published by- Kregel Publications 
Copyrighted- 2012
Number of pages- 128
Age Group- Adult
Description of book- Paperback, listed price- $12.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4309-1

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Ephesians by Sue Edwards for free from Open Book Promotions and Kregel for this Bible Study.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.  All links were current when posted.

Ephesians: Discovering Your Identity and Purpose in Christ (A Discover Together Bible Study) by Sue Edwards- Week Three: Sit Down to Work

Ephesians: Discovering Your Identity and Purpose in Christ (A Discover Together Bible Study)

by Sue Edwards

(I received this book for review purposes.)

I’m excited to bring to you a new Bible study that I am participating in by Sue Edwards.  I participated in her 1 Peter Bible study.  It was rewarding.  I worked on the Ephesians Bible study this past week with “Lesson Three: Sit Down to Work.”  I’m excited to share my thoughts with you.

This week’s focus was resting in Christ and not relying on our own strength.  I read Ephesians 2: 1-10.

“Your Former Life”

• Paul says we were dead before we knew Christ.  The forces that dominated us were the ways of this world and the spirit of disobedience.  My life was filled with worldly music, movies, books, and more.

“The War Within”

• We need to act better after we are transformed, but our old lives and outside things influence us.  Satan is still fighting for us.  God is winning the spiritual battle in me.  The way I help God to with the battle is to read the Bible and pray.

“Life in Christ”

• Christ has lots of mercy and loves us very much.  God made us alive, will raise us up, and seat us with Christ, because he is showing us how important we are to him.  He gave us a special gift and we need to accept it.    He gave us grace, so we can easily be forgiven for our sins.

“God’s Masterpiece”

• Paul says we are God’s masterpiece.  We need to do the good works he provides for us.  The purpose of those good works is to spread his word and show his love.  We are his ambassadors.  God has prepared many good works for me and currently they involve pastoring my children as a homeschool mother and writing book reviews, so that I can share the good and bad books that are being written in his name.  I know that I sometimes try to do good works with my own strength and it doesn’t go well.  It works best when I have God with me.

Genre- Bible Study 
Published by- Kregel Publications 
Copyrighted- 2012
Number of pages- 128
Age Group- Adult
Description of book- Paperback, listed price- $12.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4309-1

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Ephesians by Sue Edwards for free from Open Book Promotions and Kregel for this Bible Study.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.  All links were current when posted.