The Fatal Tree by Stephen R. Lawhead (book review)

The Fatal Tree (A Bright Empires Novel, Book 5)

by Stephen R. Lawhead

(I received this book for review purposes.)

Genre- Fiction / Fantasy / General

Publisher- Thomas Nelson

Copyrighted- 2014

Number of Pages- 356

Age Group- Adult

Description of Book- Hardback, $26.99, ISBN: 978-1-59554-808-5

The Fatal Tree, by Stephen R. Lawhead, is the final book in The Bright Empires Series.  There are some weird wrinkles in time all over the earth, that nobody can ignore.  Kit, Cass, and Mina are trying to come together to solve the problem at the Spirit Well.  They are having a hard time getting to the right time and place.  They are unable to get to the Spirit Well, because there is a very dangerous yew tree growing over the portal. 

Will they be able to save the world?  Will their nemesis, Lord Burleigh be able to help them?

About the Author- Stephen R. Lawhead currently lives in England with his wife.  He is the author of The King Raven Trilogy, The Song of Albion Trilogy, and The Dragon King Trilogy.

My Thoughts- The end of a series.  I have enjoyed reading the Bright Empires Series.  The fourth book, The Shadow Lamp, was very interesting and this one, The Fatal Tree, was excellent.

I really enjoyed having the list of characters and their descriptions.  It would have helped me if the people had been organized by their relationships or importance in the series.  I would have liked a complete table of contents, because there were a couple of chapters titles I could not read.  I also wanted to know what the titles were, because I wanted to go back and look some information up, I had to flip through the book to find it.

Now that I got all of the technical items out of the way, I can discuss my favorite parts.  My favorite character in this book was Lord Burleigh.  He was the antagonist throughout the series, but he changed thanks to the effort of Engelbert Stiffelbeam, the man he assaulted.  It was while Burleigh was in jail that Etzel, Engelbert, visited him once a week to bring him food.  Etzel was being a wonderful Christian, he was drawing people to Christ through his actions, not his words or lack there of.  I personally feel that is one of the best ways to draw people to Christ.  I thought all of the other characters were well developed, but they did not come close to Lord Burleigh and Etzel.

Since I had read the other books in the series, I knew the plot, what the ley lines were, and who the characters were, but I do not think this book would be hard to follow if you were new to the series.  You may want to start at the beginning though to get the whole story. 

This is an excellent book and I recommend it to all.  The book, Hood, from the King Raven series, looks interesting.  I was able to read a short excerpt in the back of The Fatal Tree.  I will be reading it soon.

Informational and Purchasing Links-

The Fatal Tree - http://www.amazon.com/The-Fatal-Tree-Bright-Empires/dp/1595548084/

Author Website - http://www.stephenlawhead.com/

Author Facebook page - http://www.facebook.com/pages/Stephen-R-Lawhead/84503526872

My review for The Shadow Lamp- http://www.christsbridge.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-shadow-lamp-by-stephen-r-lawhead.html

Participants’ links:

• Julie Bihn
• Thomas Clayton Booher
• Beckie Burnham
• Jeff Chapman
• Karri Compton
• April Erwin
• Victor Gentile
• Jason Joyner
• Janeen Ippolito
• Carol Keen
• Emileigh Latham
• Rebekah Loper
• Shannon McDermott
• Meagan @ Blooming with Books
• Rebecca LuElla Miller
• Nissa
• Jalynn Patterson
• Writer Rani
• Nathan Reimer
• Audrey Sauble
• Jojo Sutis
• Rachel Starr Thomson
• Robert Treskillard
• Steve Trower
• Shane Werlinger
• Phyllis Wheeler

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received a free copy of The Fatal Tree, by Stephen R. Lawhead 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.

God’s Super-Apostles by R. Douglas Geivett and Holly Pivec (book review)

God’s Super-Apostles:

Encountering the Worldwide Prophets and Apostles Movement

By R. Douglas Geivett and Holly Pivec

(I received this book for review purposes.)

Genre- Christianity / Pentecostal & Charismatic

Published by- Weaver Book Company

Copyrighted- 2014

Number of pages- 160

Age Group- Adults

Description of Book- paperback, ISBN 978-1-941337-08-0, $12.99

Do you know the name of Rick Joyner, Bill Johnson, Bill Hamon, or Cindy Jacobs?  Have you ever hear of the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR).

God’s Super-Apostles explains what NAR is and how it is different from Pentecostal and charismatic teachings.  “Prayerwalking,” “healing rooms,” and “24/7 prayer rooms” are also discussed.  There are also chapter discussing what it says in the Bible about these different teachings.

In the back of the book there are different indexes, appendices, and a glossary.

Sample of the Book!

About the Authors-

R. Douglas Geivett currently works as a professor of philosophy in the Talbot School of Theology at Biola University.  He has written several other books.

Holly Pivec has written many different articles and has been the managing editor of Biola Magazine.

My thoughts- I thought God’s Super-Apostles was a very interesting book.  I have never studied or known much about NAR, but I know a lot more thanks to R. Douglas Geivett and Holly Pivec. 

One thing I know for sure is that before I join a church or even after I visit one I will be studying the Bible to make sure what was discussed is also in the Bible.  I do not plan on staying at a church that believes so strongly in the apostles and prophets and teaching people spiritual gifts.

I really liked the examples of what happened to different individuals that went to different NAR churches.  I also liked the appendices, because they gave good advice to parents, pastors, and participants.  There was also a section about questions to ask the church and one about different names NAR individuals might call people, like critical spirit.  The glossary was also very helpful.

This book was well done, because it discussed what NAR believed, then what the Bible teaches, then compared the two.  I would highly recommend it to others.  I think everyone needs to know about NAR.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received God’s Super-Apostles, by R. Douglas Geivett and Holly Pivec, 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.

Samuel Rutherford by Richard M. Hannula (Book Review)

Samuel Rutherford (Bitesize Biographies) by Richard M. Hannula

Genre- Christian / Nonfiction

Published by- EP Books (Evangelical Press)

Copyrighted- 2014

Number of pages- 140

Age Group- Adult (I think this would be good for students of middle school age and up.

Description of book- paperback, list price $10.99, ISBN: 978-1783970186

It was 1636 and King Charles I thought he would never hear of Samuel Rutherford again, because he had been banished to Northern Scotland.  It was not to be, Rutherford came back to his congregation again, and he came to help Scotland develop important documents to help fight against England.  And during all that time he wrote sermons, letters, and a variety of books.  

About the author- Richard M. Hannula currently lives in Washington where he is a school principal and an elder in a Presbyterian Church.

My thoughts- I’m not sure if I had heard of Samuel Rutherford, before I read this book.  I know a lot more about him after reading this excellent book by Richard M. Hannula.

I really enjoyed all of Rutherford’s quotes that were added to the book.  Sometimes I find that too many quotes in a book can take a way from the book, but I feel that this book would not have been the same without all of the quotes.

My ancestors come from Scotland, but I did not know how truly independent they wanted to be as a country and how intense they were.  I was really proud of them for doing their best to take a stand against England and her kings.  I’m glad that Rutherford and his passion for God and the truth was there to help guide them in the difficult times.  After I read the section in the book about the Book of Common Prayer, I went downloaded a copy to the Kindle and took a look at it.  I could understand why the Kirk and Rutherford did not want it.  It was full of rules and order.  It would not have allowed them to be free.

I plan on reading this book to my children.  I believe they will learn and be inspired by Samuel Rutherford.  I highly recommend it to you too.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Samuel Rutherford, by Richard Hannula, for free from 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.

Preaching by Ear by Dave McClellan

Preaching by Ear

Speaking God’s Truth from the Inside Out

By Dave McClellan

(I received this book for review purposes.)

Genre- Christian Ministry / Preaching

Published by- Weaver Book Company

Copyrighted- 2014

Number of pages- 173

Age Group- Adults (Ministers), it would also be good students in college

Description of Book- paperback, ISBN 978-1-941337-02-8, $15.99

Preaching by Ear, by Dave McClellan, is filled with useful information on why and how pastors should have orally based sermons.  Providing information from Augustine, Quintilian, and more, McClellan show how important it was to develop sermons without writing them down and reading off of notes (because they did not) and how it is still relevant today. 

Sample of the Book!

About the Author- Dave McClellan is married and has two adult children.  He an adjunct professor at Indiana Wesleyan University, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, and John Carroll University.  He is also a pastor of The Chapel at Tinkers Creek.

My thoughts- I thought this was an excellent book.  It was easy to read, understand, and dealt with a topic which I think is important.  I was even reading parts of it to my nine and ten-year-old children.  I thought they should learn how important it is to be able to tell stories and be able to write about different things.

One of the most interesting parts of this book to me was learning about Augustine and Quintilian.  I have never studied ancient history in depth, so while I may have heard about these two men, I knew nothing about them.  It was from them that I learned that it is important, as a preacher to be able to have an orally based sermon.  When I was learning about this I thought of Kevin Weatherby, from Save the Cowboy.  I do not know for sure how he prepares his sermons or if this is a method that he uses, but I think he must.  His sermons always flow well and I do not see him actively checking for notes.

I think this is a book that all pastors need to read.  It should also be required reading for those who desire to become pastors.  I highly recommend it. 

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Preaching by Ear, by Dave McClellan, 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.

Persuasive Preaching by R. Larry Overstreet (book review)

Persuasive Preaching

A Biblical and Practical Guide to the Effective Use of Persuasion

By R. Larry Overstreet

(I received this book for review purposes.)

Genre- Christian Ministry / Preaching

Published by- Weaver Book Company

Copyrighted- 2014

Number of pages- 312

Age Group- Adults (Ministers), it would also be good students in college

Description of Book- paperback, ISBN 978-1-941337-00-4, $24.99

What is your method of preaching?  What kind of preaching do you prefer?

Persuasive Preaching, by R. Larry Overstreet, discusses what persuasive preaching is, Biblical support for it, four different structures of persuasive messages (motivated sequence, problem-solution, cause-effect, and refutation), and different applications.

Sample of the Book!

About the Author- R. Larry Overstreet has served as a pastor in Michigan and Indiana.  He is currently an adjunct professor at Piedmont International University.

My thoughts- I thought Persuasive Preaching had a lot of good points.  I am not a pastor, so I enjoyed learning about the different structures that persuasive messages can have, learning about the Holy Spirit in preaching, of course, understanding what persuasive preaching is all about.

I did not know about the different structures for persuasive messages, so I really enjoyed learning about the motivated sequence, problem-solution, cause-effect, and refutation.  I think that I listen best when it is a motivated sequence, because it catches my attention, shows need, satisfaction, visualization, and action.  I am sure with the right pastor that I would do well with the other structures as well, but I know the sermon has to catch my attention right from the beginning.  Overstreet gave examples of each structure in the back of the book, so I was able to see the outlines for each of the type.  I thought they were excellent and I also thought the messages were persuasive.  I would have enjoyed listening to his different sermons. 

I think this book would be perfect for those who are pastors, who wish to become pastors, or those who want to know how to share a persuasive message. 

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Persuasive Preaching, by R. Larry Overstreet, 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.

Alby’s Amazing Book by Catalina Echeverri

Alby’s Amazing Book

Illustrated by Catalina Echeverri

(based on Mary Elizabeth Blume’s work)

(I received this book for review purposes.)

Genre- Christian / Religious / Children

Published by- The Good Book Company

Copyrighted- 2014

Number of pages- 32

Age Group- Children (I think ages 1-5 is best)

Description of Book- hardback, ISBN 978-1-91030-710-6, $14.99

Catalina Echeverri has illustrated a wonderful story call, Alby’s Amazing Book.  Alby enjoys the adventures different stories take him on.  Alby has one book that is his very favorite the Bible.  This book tells about why this book is Alby’s favorite.

Book Sample.

About the Author- Catalina Echeverri currently lives in London and is a freelance illustrator.  She specializes in illustrating children’s books.

My thoughts- I thought Alby’s Amazing Book was excellent.  The illustrations were very fun to study.  I thought it was especially neat how Catalina Echeverri added the text from the Bible into the background of the story.  That meant that when the pages were talking about David and Goliath, that the in the background you could see the text from that story.  The rest of the illustrations were a lot of fun too.  It was nice that Alby was a different color from the rest of the squirrels, because it made him stand out and become more important to me.

I really liked how the story itself made the Bible sound so exciting and adventurous (perfect for all young boys who like adventure).  I also liked how this book stress the importance of reading and not learning from t.v. or video games.  I like it when technology is not important to the story.

My children were eight and ten when I read this story to them and they really enjoyed it.  I think many young children will enjoy this book.  It would be the perfect book to read to a young child before reading the Bible to them or giving it to them as a present.  Alby would be able to get them excited for the adventures that await them.

I highly recommend this book.  It would make a wonderful present to any young child. 

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Alby’s Amazing Book, illustrated by Catalina Echeverri, 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.

The Christmas Promise by Alison Mitchell and illustrated by Catalina Echeverri (book review)

The Christmas Promise

By Alison Mitchell

Illustrated by Catalina Echeverri

(I received this book for review purposes.)

Genre- Christian / Religious / Children / Christmas

Published by- The Good Book Company

Copyrighted- 2014

Number of pages- 32

Age Group- Children (I think ages 1-8 is best)

Description of Book- hardback, ISBN 978-1-910030-711-3, $14.99

The Christmas Promise, by Alison Mitchell and illustrated by Catalina Echeverri is the story of Jesus’s birth.  God promised us a new king, but He would be unlike any king anyone had ever known.  This king would be a Rescuing King, a New King, and a Forever King.  This is the story of Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, the angels who helped them, Jesus, and the wise men.

Book Sample.

About the Author- Alison Mitchell is involved with Growing Young Disciples and is the Children’s Editor at The Good Book Company.

My thoughts- I thought The Christmas Promise was the perfect book to explain Jesus’s birth to young children.  It had wonderful illustrations and it showed how he had come here to us for us.  The illustrations were colorful and they showed exactly what the story was telling.  I liked the portrayal of the kings that Jesus was not.  He was our New King, Rescuing King, and Forever King.  I liked how they were stressed in the book, because it helps the listener/reader to realize how important Jesus is to us.

I also liked the page at the very end of the book which told where the birth of Jesus is described in the book.  It even showed where some of God’s promises of Jesus are written about in the Old Testament.

I think this book would be perfect for young children and their families.  It is a perfect gift. 

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received The Christmas Promise, by Alison Mitchell and illustrated by Catalina Echeverri, 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.

Jonathan Edwards by Simonetta Carr (Book Review)

Jonathan Edwards

part of Christian Biographies for Young Readers

By Simonetta Carr

(I received this book for review purposes.)

Genre- Biography & Autobiography / Religious / Children

Published by- Reformation Heritage Books

Copyrighted- 2014

Number of pages- 64

Age Group- Children (ages 7-12)

Description of Book- hardback, ISBN 978-1-60178-354-7, $18.00

Simonetta Carr discusses all of Jonathan Edwards’s life in her book, Jonathan Edwards.  Edwards lived during the early 1700’s in colonial America.  He was a pastor, missionary, writer, college president, and he was even interested in science.

This book contains:

• six chapter discussing Edwards’s life.
• a timeline of his life.
• “Did You Know?” (section which discusses relevant information about his life and the time period).
• a letter from him to his daughter, Mary.

Book Sample.

About the Author- Simonetta Carr was born in Italy and currently lives with her family in San Diego.  She is a former elementary school teacher and has homeschooled her eight children.  She has written for various newspapers and magazines.

About the Illustrator- Matt Abraxas currently lives in Colorado with his wife and children.  He has studied many different approaches to art and exhibits his work at the SmithKlein Gallery.

My thoughts- I thought Jonathan Edwards, by Simonetta Carr, was very well written.  I really enjoyed the layout and learning more information about Edwards.  I had studied a little bit about him with my children last year (we homeschool), but this book was perfect to learn more.  I realize that the target age range is seven to twelve, but I believe this book would work well for adults too.  This book had just the right amount information to satisfy young readers, but encourage older readers to want to learn more.

I learned a lot about Edwards when I read the chapters about him, but my favorite part of the book was the section, “Did you know?”  I enjoyed learning different trivia about the family and America at that time.  I also enjoyed the illustrations and photos.  They helped the book come alive.

I would recommend this book to all young readers, homeschooling families, and anyone else who would be interested in learning about Jonathan Edwards. 

Renee of France

Anselm of Canterbury (part of Christian Biographies for Young Readers)

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Jonathan Edwards, by Simonetta Carr, 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.

Live Handbook and DVD by Rebecca Manley Pippert (Bible Study Review)

Live: Your Life With Christ

By Rebecca Manley Pippert

(I received this book for review purposes.)

Genre- Religion /Christian / Nonfiction / Bible Study

Published by- The Good Book Company

Copyrighted- 2014

Number of pages- 64

Age Group- Adult

Description of Book- paperback, ISBN 978-1-90991-976-1, $7.99

Description of DVD- Physical Copy, ISBN 978-1-90991-977-8

Live, by Rebecca Manley Pippert, contains five sessions to help Christians learn why and how to be good disciples of Christ.

In each of the sessions you will have different areas to complete-

• “Introduction”
• “Historical Context”
• “Bible Study”
• “Live What You Learn”
• “Life Stories”
• “Following Jesus”
• “Praying Together”
• “Going Deeper”

Sample from the Live Handbook.

Introduction the Live DVD and series.

About the Author- Rebecca Manley Pippert is married and has four children and one grandchild.  As well as being an author she is a speaker and the founder of Salt Shaker Ministries.

My thoughts- I thought the Live Bible study written by Rebecca Manley Pippert was an excellent study for those who are new to God or who or are struggling.

I thought all aspects of the Bible study were very interesting, but I really enjoyed the “Life Stories” on the DVD.  I liked them so much, because it put to words what I had thought or been thinking over the past years.  My favorite stories came from the last session when they discussed their new lives in Christ. 

The handbook was written to work perfectly with the DVD.  I liked the session titles and the different parts of the that each session had.  My favorite part of each session was “Going Deeper.”  I liked this part, because I was able to dig deeper into the word and learn even more about each session’s subject.  My other favorite part was about living what I learned about.  It is always helpful to me when I have guidance on how to put what I have learned into my daily life.

Both the handbook and the DVD were very helpful to me.  I am really looking forward to taking a look at Grow and Know when they are available.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Live, by Rebecca Manley Pippert, 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.

Rebels by Jill Williamson (Book Review)

Rebels (The Safe Lands, Book 3)

by Jill Williamson

(I received this book for review purposes.)

Genre- Teen Fiction / General

Publisher- Blink (Zondervan)

Copyrighted- 2014

Number of Pages- 393

Age Group- Young Adult and Adult 

Description of Book- paperback, $9.99, ISBN: 978-0-310-73577-9

Rebels, by Jill Williamson, is the final book is The Safe Lands series.  Omar and Mason have been publically sentence to Liberation.  Levi is the newest leader of the group from Glenrock and he is still trying to save them from the Safe Lands.  His new wife, Jemma, is the Safe Lands Queen.  He needs to rescue her, keep his people safe, and find out what happened to Omar and Mason. 

Are Omar and Mason still alive?  Will Levi be able to be the leader he needs to be to save the people of Glenrock and Jack’s Peak?

About the Author- Jill Williamson currently lives in Oregon with her husband and children.  She enjoys working with teenagers and gives writing workshops.

My Thoughts: It is always sad when a series comes to an end.  Rebels, by Jill Williamson, is the third book in The Safe Lands series.  It was just as exciting and mysterious as the other two book, Captives and Outcasts. 

My favorite character was Omar.  I especially liked him because he grew into a man in the three books.  He especially grew in character depth during the third book after he was sentenced to Liberation.  While he was Liberated he overdosed and was detoxed while he was in the hospital.  After he was detoxed he did everything he could do to save the people of Glenrock and Jack’s Peak.

I always thought Levi, since he currently leads the people from Glenrock, would be the strongest person mentally and morally.  He was not.  It was the people who were the weakest like Omar and Shaylinn who grew in their walk with God.  I guess Levi was too set in his ways to really grow.  He would probably have a better live when he was able to live what is a normal life for them.  He did try new things though, like becoming the Owl after Omar was liberated and taking his wife, Jemma, with him on a rescue mission.

I really thought this was an excellent conclusion to the series.  There are many more things that happen to everyone, but I am not going to give out any spoilers.  You will need to find a copy and read the book yourself.

Informational and Purchasing Links-

Rebels -  http://www.amazon.com/Rebels-Safe-Lands-Jill-Williamson/dp/0310735777/

Author Website - http://www.jillwilliamson.com/

Links to my reviews of the other two books:

• Captives- http://christsbridge.blogspot.com/2013/04/captives-by-jill-williamson-review.html
• Outcasts- http://christsbridge.blogspot.com/2014/01/outcasts-by-jill-williamson-review.html

Participants’ links:

• Julie Bihn
• Thomas Fletcher Booher
• Beckie Burnham
• Jeff Chapman
• Vicky DealSharingAunt
• April Erwin
• Carol Gehringer
• Victor Gentile
• Rebekah Gyger
• Jeremy Harder
• Jason Joyner
• Carol Keen
• Shannon McDermott
• Meagan @ Blooming with Books
• Melanie @ Christian Bookshelf Reviews
• Rebecca LuElla Miller
• Joan Nienhuis
• Nissa
• Audrey Sauble
• Chawna Schroeder
• Jojo Sutis
• Elizabeth Williams

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received a free copy of Rebels, by Jill Williamson, to review from Christian Science Fiction and Fantasy Blog Tour and Blink (Zondervan).  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.

Merlin’s Nightmare by Robert Treskillard (Book Review)

Merlin’s Nightmare (Merlin Spiral Series, Book 3)

by Robert Treskillard

(I received this book for review purposes.)

 

Genre- Juvenile Fiction / General

Publisher- Blink (Zondervan)

Copyrighted- 2014

Number of Pages- 432

Age Group- Young Adult and Adult 

Description of Book- paperback, $9.99, ISBN: 978-0-310-73509-0

In Merlin’s Nightmare, by Robert Treskillard, Merlin has been running and hiding from his enemies for some time now and he would like to stay home and grow old with his family.  Arthur is now eighteen and he is eager to be on the battlefield.  He does not know that he is the High King, because everybody close to him has kept him safe throughout the years. 

Now it is the time that Merlin is going to have to stop hiding himself and Arthur.  They are going to have fight to keep their country safe.  The Saxenow are coming from the south, Picti from the north, and something else from the west. 

Morgana, Merlin’s sister, is about to let herself known to all and unleash werewolves to destroy everyone.  What will happen?  Will Merlin be brave enough to face his fears?  Will Arthur be crowned king?

About the Author- Robert Treskillard currently lives in Missouri with his wife and youngest child.  He has a BA in Biblical; Theological Studies.  He is a software developer, graphic artist, and bladesmith.

My thoughts-

Merlin’s Nightmare, by Robert Treskillard, was an exciting conclusion to the Merlin Spiral Series.  There were a lot of exciting extras in this book  The subject matter was exciting too, Merlin and Arthur, two of my favorite subjects.

I liked the pronunciation guide, and the glossary.  It is always important to know as much as you can about the setting and those two items helped me understand and visualize everything that was happening.  There were also maps in the front of the book that I used to follow where the people were living and fighting.  I thought the beginning of the book was interesting, because he used people and subject matter to highlight what had happened in the other books.  I liked that, because I like to read a synopsis of what happened in the other books in a series. 

I was glad to read that Merlin was finally able to accept that God had sent him to do an important task.  God often tells us what we need to do in our lives.  We need to make sure that we are listening to him and following him.  It took Merlin many years to do what God was asking of him.  I hope that it does not take me that long to listen to God.

I really liked this book and it was a good conclusion to the series.  I am looking forward to reading the next series, Pendragon Spiral.  It will continue Merlin’s story.  I know that many grownups and teens would like to read this book.

Informational and Purchasing Links-

Merlin’s Nightmare -  http://www.amazon.com/Merlins-Nightmare-Merlin-Spiral-Treskillard/dp/0310735092/

Author Website - http://www.KingArthur.org.uk

Participants’ links:

• Beckie Burnham
• Jeff Chapman
• Vicky DealSharingAunt
• April Erwin
• Carol Gehringer
• Victor Gentile
• Rebekah Gyger
• Carol Keen
• Krystine Kercher
• Emileigh Latham
• Jennette Mbewe
• Shannon McDermott
• Meagan @ Blooming with Books
• Rebecca LuElla Miller
• Mirriam Neal
• Joan Nienhuis
• Nissa
• Nathan Reimer
• Audrey Sauble
• Chawna Schroeder
• Jojo Sutis
• Robert Treskillard
• Phyllis Wheeler
• Elizabeth Williams

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received a free copy of Merlin’s Nightmare, by Robert Treskillard, to review from Christian Science Fiction and Fantasy Blog Tour and Blink (Zondervan).  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.

Starting at the Finish Line by John B. Wallace (Book Review)

Starting at the Finish Line

By John B. Wallace

(I received this book for review purposes.)

Genre- Religion /Christian / Nonfiction / General

Published by- Pomona House Publishing, LLC

Copyrighted- 2014

Number of pages- 202

Age Group- Adult

Description of Book- paperback, ISBN 978-0-9914622-0-9, $14.99

Starting at the Finish Line, by John B. Wallace, is about describing what it is like for the Mormons and how they need to look more closely at the Bible learn about how salvation given by Christ.  Wallace defends the Bible, give solutions, and discusses how a person is born again.

About the Author- Dr. John B. Wallace is a practicing dentist in California and is active in his church.  He was active in the Mormon church for twenty years.

My thoughts- I thought Starting at the Finish Line, by John B. Wallace was an interesting book, because I learned both about the Mormons and more about how some view Christianity. 

I think this would a wonderful resource for someone who is thinking of leaving the Mormon faith.  Wallace did a wonderful job of showing what the Mormons believe, how some of their concepts are wrong, and what the Bible truly says and how Christianity works.  I learn that I sometimes think as the Mormons do, that I have to have good works and not just the gift of salvation that Jesus provided to me by his death on the cross. 

I liked how Wallace quoted the Book of Mormon.  I really enjoyed being able to read my version on the Kindle, to know what was discussed around those particular verses.  It would have been nice to have a bibliography in the back of the book, so that I could try to find the books that were quoted.

I really recommend this book to those who are thinking of leaving the Mormon faith or those who desire to learn more about the Mormons and how talk to them about the Christian faith.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Starting at the Finish Line, by John B. Wallace, 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.

The Warden and the Wolf King (Book Four of The Wingfeather Saga) by Andrew Peterson

The Warden and the Wolf King

(Book Four of The Wingfeather Saga)

by Andrew Peterson

(I received this book for review purposes.)

 

Genre- Fiction / Fantasy / Young Adult

Publisher- Rabbit Room Press

Copyrighted- 2014

Number of pages- 524

Age Group- Young Adult

Description of book- hardback, $22.99, ISBN: 978-0-9889632-5-2

In the final book, The Warden and the King, of The Wingfeather Saga, by Andrew Peterson, the Jewels of Anniera are hard at work trying to save the people of Ban Rona.  The Jewels are Janner, Kalmar, and Leeli, children who are the heirs to the crown.  Janner is the Throne Warden, Kalmar the King, and Leeli is the Song Maiden. 

Life is very difficult for them and the people they are with.  Gnag the Nameless and the Fangs of Dang are about to attack and they now have Bat Fangs. 

Unexpected help will come for Janner, Kalmar, and Leeli in the form of other children and the sea dragons and more.  Will their help be enough to save the people from being Fangs.

About the Author:  Andrew Peterson currently lives in Nashville with his wife and children.  He has written On the Edge of the the Dark Sea of Darkness, North! Or Be Eaten, and The Monster in the Hollows.  He is also a singer and songwriter.

My thoughts: The Warden and the Wolf King, by Andrew Peterson was an excellent ending to the exciting Wingfeather Saga.  I had not heard of or read any of the other books, before I signed up to review this book.  As soon as I knew I was going to be reviewing this book I checked out the other books in the series from my local library.  While it is not necessary to read the other books before you read this one, I would recommend it.  There are references to things that happened in the other books, so it would be good to know what could be missed.

I do wish that Peterson had put a synopsis of the other books at the beginning of this one.  I needed a reminder of what all the important characters had been doing up to the beginning of this book.

I enjoyed reading more about Janner, Kalmar, and Leeli.  I was impressed with all that they accomplished even though they were young children.  If I was Leeli’s age I don’t think I could stay up all night playing music to keep everybody’s spirits up while they were fighting the Fangs and Bat Fangs.  Kalmar had a lot of courage, because he was still determined to be the king even though he had been turned into a Fang.  I was proudest though of Janner, because he really became determined to become the Throne Warden and take care of Janner.  You will have to read the book to see what I mean, I do not want to spoil anything.

I highly recommend that you pick up a copy of this book.

Informational and Purchasing Links:

• The Warden and the Wolf King -  http://www.amazon.com/Warden-Wolf-King-Wingfeather-Saga/dp/0988963256/
• Author Website - http://www.andrewpeterson.com/books/

Participants’ links:

Keanan Brand Beckie Burnham Pauline Creeden Vicky DealSharingAunt Carol Gehringer Victor Gentile Ryan Heart Bruce Hennigan Jason Joyner Carol Keen Krystine Kercher Shannon McDermott Meagan @ Blooming with Books Rebecca LuElla Miller Nissa Nathan Reimer Chawna Schroeder Jojo Sutis Rachel Starr Thomson Shane Werlinger Phyllis Wheeler

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received a free copy of The Warden and the Wolf King, by Andrew Peterson, 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.

God’s Story by Brian Cosby (Review)

God’s Story: A Student’s Guide to Church History

By Brian Cosby

(I received this book for review purposes.)

Genre- Religion /Christian / Nonfiction / Church

Published by- Christian Focus Publications

Copyrighted- 2014

Number of pages- 144

Age Group- Young Adult (14-16)

Description of Book- paperback, ISBN 978-1-78191-320-8, $9.99

Have you been looking for a book about church history or has someone you know? 

God’s Story, by Brian Cosby, is an easy to read, yet complete book about Christian Church history.  This book includes questions at the end of the chapters and an overview of church history.  The church history is from the beginning of the Old Testament to today. 

Some of the subjects included are:

• church in the dark ages.
• the reformations.
• how the Bible has been abandoned today
• fundamentalism and evangelicalism.

Book Trailer!

About the Author- Brian Cosby is from Tennessee and is Pastor of Wayside Presbyterian Church.  He has written a number of books.

My thoughts- I know a little something about about church history, but God’s Story, by Brian Cosby, filled in any information I was missing.  I learned more about creeds, Apostolic Fathers, the Reformations, and who has abandoned the Bible and what happened because of that.

I liked this book, because Cosby made this book factual.  He did not include his opinions.  I never works when an author decides to add his own opinions into a book that was not made for them.  I also liked how he included questions at the end of each chapter, so the reader could review and study what was read.  End-of-chapter questions are something that I find especially important when I read a nonfiction book.  

I really liked this book and I think it would be perfect for young adults or adults who want a basic history of the church.  I highly recommend it.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received God’s Story, by Brian Cosby, 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.

Dreamtreaders by Wayne Thomas Batson (Review)

Dreamtreaders

by Wayne Thomas Batson

(I received this book for review purposes.)

 

Genre- Juvenile / Action & Adventure / General

Publisher- Thomas Nelson

Copyrighted- 2014

Number of pages- 296

Age Group- Older Juvenile

Description of book- Paperback, $9.99, ISBN: 978-1-4003-2366-1

Wayne Thomas Batson has written another interesting book.  Archer Keaton is only fourteen, but he is only one of three people in the world who is a dreamtreader.  His job is to protect people from the Nightmare Lord.  The Nightmare Lord gives people all over the world bad dreams.  Life is not going so well for him in the real world or in the dream world.  His friends are spending time with the new guy and he cannot find the other dreamtreaders.

What will he do? 

My thoughts:

I thought this book was interesting, because Archer was only fourteen and was one of only three people who was designated to protect the earth from the Nightmare Lord.  I do not think I would have had a young teen to help protect the world.  They just are not developed enough mentally.  It shows too, because he does not know everything he needs to and the end of the book shows that.

I thought Thomas Batson did a good job of character development and plot.  I felt like I was there with Archer each step of the way.  My favorite part of the book was on pages 49 and 50 when Master Gabriel and Archer were discussing anchors.  Master Gabriel said that we all need anchors in our lives.  If we don’t have anchors we drift from the truth.  And our world is drifting from our anchors. 

The thoughts in this book are very important for all of us, especially the younger generation.  This is certainly a book they should read.  Please find a copy for them today.

Informational and Purchasing Links:

• Dreamtreaders -  http://www.amazon.com/Dreamtreaders-Wayne-Thomas-Batson/dp/1400323665/
• Author Website - http://www.enterthedoorwithin.blogspot.com/

Participants’ links:

Beckie Burnham Jeff Chapman Pauline Creeden Vicky DealSharingAunt Carol Gehringer Victor Gentile Rebekah Gyger Christopher Hopper Jason Joyner Carol Keen Jennette Mbewe Shannon McDermott Meagan @ Blooming with Books Rebecca LuElla Miller Nissa Nathan Reimer Chawna Schroeder Jojo Sutis Steve Trower Shane Werlinger Phyllis Wheeler

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received a free copy of Dreamtreaders, by Wayne Thomas Batson, 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.

Growing Up God’s Way for Boys by Dr. Chris Richards and Dr. Liz Jones (Review)

 Growing Up God’s Way for Boys

By Dr. Chris Richards and Dr. Liz Jones

(I received this book for review purposes.)

Genre- Christian / Nonfiction

Published by- EP Books

Copyrighted- 2014

Number of pages- 80

Age Group- 10-14 year-old boys

Description of Book- paperback, ISBN 978-0852349991, $12.99

Dr. Richards and Dr. Jones have written a fully illustrated book which will help teach young men what puberty and marriage is about from a Biblical point-of-view.  The Bible is a constant reference point and there will be no doubt in the young man’s mind how a Biblical life should be lived.

Some of the topics are:

• Marriage
• Puberty and how it starts
• Physical Intimacy

About the Authors- Dr. Chris Richards is married and has four children.  He is a Consultant Pediatrician and a deacon.

Dr. Liz Jones is married with three married daughters.  She is a retired Community Pediatrician. 

My thoughts- I thought Growing Up God’s Way for Boys, Dr. Chris Richards and Dr. Liz Jones was very interesting. 

I have a son who is almost eleven and I think this book would be good for him to read.  I need to read it again and study it to make sure he would be the best age for it.  I will have him read it and discuss it with his father, because I think that is a good subject to discuss between father and son. 

There are parts of this book that I thought might be important to wait until he is older, like 14, and that would be the changes in girls and physical intimacy.  I personally feel that a lot of innocence will be lost if he knows more about girls at a young age than is pertinent. 

I think this book was well written and illustrated.  I would recommend it to all parents of young men. 

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Growing Up God’s Way for Boys, by Dr. Chris Richards and Dr. Liz Jones, 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.

Growing Up God’s Way for Girls by Dr. Chris Richards and Dr. Liz Jones (Review)

 Growing Up God’s Way for Girls

By Dr. Chris Richards and Dr. Liz Jones

(I received this book for review purposes.)

Genre- Christian / Nonfiction

Published by- EP Books

Copyrighted- 2014

Number of pages- 80

Age Group- 10-14 year-old girls

Description of Book- paperback, ISBN 978-1783970001, $12.99

Dr. Richards and Dr. Jones have written a fully illustrated book which will help teach young girls what puberty and marriage is.  The Bible is a constant reference point and there will be no doubt how a Biblical life should be lived.

Some of the topics are:

• Marriage
• Puberty and how it starts
• Physical Intimacy

About the Authors- Dr. Chris Richards is married and has four children.  He is a Consultant Pediatrician and a deacon.

Dr. Liz Jones is married with three married daughters.  She is a retired Community Pediatrician. 

My thoughts- I thought Growing Up God’s Way for Girls, Dr. Chris Richards and Dr. Liz Jones was very interesting. 

When I was young my mother gave me a book to read about puberty, but it did not have any of the Biblical aspects that this book did.  I have a daughter, so this will be the book that I will show her and read with her.  It is important to know how your body will be changing and especially the physical intimacy with her husband. 

There are parts of this book that I thought might be important to wait until she is older, like 14, and that would be the changes in the boys and physical intimacy.  I personally feel that a lot of innocence will be lost if she knows more about boys at a young age than is pertinent. 

I think this book was well written and illustrated.  I would recommend it to all parents of young girls. 

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Growing Up God’s Way for Girls, by Dr. Chris Richards and Dr. Liz Jones, 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.

How to Make Friends and Monsters by Ron Bates (Review)

How to Make Friends and Monsters

By Ron Bates

(received for review purposes)   

Genre- Juvenile Fiction / General

Published by- Zonderkidz

Copyrighted- 2013

Number of pages- 352

Age Group- 8-12 years-old

Physical description of book- hardback, list price $12.99, ISBN: 978-0-310-73607-3

In How to Make Friends and Monsters, by Ron Bates, Howard Boward is unable to make friends.  Kids make fun of his name and it does not help that he enjoys science.

Howard decides he is going to make a friend, a monster.  Before he knows it this new friend is popular and all the cool kids want to be Howard’s friends.  They want him to make them monsters too.

What will he do?  Will he learn the true meaning of friendship?

About the author- Ron Bates currently lives in Texas.  He is a humor columnist, writer and journalist.

My thoughts- Sometimes I wonder why Christian publishers publish some books and How to Make Friends and Monsters, by Ron Bates, is one of those books.  I thought the book itself was great, because it taught the reader that you cannot force people to be your friend and you cannot buy your friends.  It just did not have any obvious message from God, something I have come to expect in books from Christian publishers.

It would be a good book for tweens to read.  They will be able to learn how to and not too make friends.  I know that tweens, especially those who are different have trouble fitting in and may go to any length to do so.  Howard and his monster friend can show them the right way to gain true friends.

I highly recommend it.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received How to Make Monsters and Friends, by Ron Bates., 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.

Andi Unexpected by Amanda Flower (Review)

Andi Unexpected (An Andi Boggs Novel)

By Amanda Flower

(received for review purposes)   

Genre- Juvenile Fiction / General

Published by- Zonderkidz

Copyrighted- 2013

Number of pages- 224

Age Group- 9-12 years-old

Physical description of book- hardback, list price $10.99, ISBN: 978-0-310-73701-8

In Andi Unexpected (An Andi Boggs Novel), by Amanda Flower, 12-year-old Andi Boggs and her older sister have to move in with their aunt after their parents die in a plane crash.  Andi’s aunt lets her clean up the attic of the family home, so she can have a space of her own.  While Andi and Colin Carter, a young neighbor, are exploring the attic they find a trunk which holds a mystery.  The trunk contains items belonging to Andora Boggs, a family member.  Andi, whose real name is Andora, had never her of her.

Colin and Andi are suspicious when people will not answer their questions and someone starts snooping.  What will happen?  Will they find out what happened to Andora?

About the author- Amanda Flower is a librarian and currently lives in Ohio.  She is an Agatha-nominated mystery author.

My thoughts- I thought Andi Unexpected, by Amanda Flower, was a well written book.  I felt as if I was part of everybody’s life.

Andi was certainly a character.  It would be fun to have her as a friend as she is so adventurous.  It was certainly nice for Colin, a young neighbor, to be able to gain such a friend such as Andi, especially since her knew so much about the town.  They needed each other to be happy and to solve the mystery of Andora Boggs, one of Andi’s relatives.

I thought there could have been a stronger presence of God, but I am hoping there will be more in the future books.  In the series I know they are Christians, but it still needs to be stronger.

I think all tweens would enjoy reading this book.  There is lots of adventure and lessons to be learned.  I highly recommend it!

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Andi Unexpected, by Amanda Flower, 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.