A Woman's Guide to Fasting by Lisa Nelson

This is a very informative and helpful book that covers important things to think about when undertaking a fast. The author explains the basics about what fasting is and why it is important. She also covers in detail how to go about preparing for, practicing and coming out of a fast. Not only does she cover the physical aspect of hunger and what foods to eat before and after, she discusses the emotional and spiritual effects of the fasting. She was very detailed in the kinds of feelings and things that a body, mind and soul might experience at various stages of the fast. If you have ever considered fasting, I highly recommend this book.

This book was provided free by the publisher for review.

Reclaiming Lily by Patti Lacy

This book centers around two sisters who survived the cultural revolution in China. One by heading to the states to become a doctor and one who was adopted before her the family could rescue her from an orphanage. On top of dealing with the emotional trauma brought on by the violence and degradation of the revolution, this family faces a very serious genetic kidney disease. Older sister Kai Chang has worked hard to save her sister from both.

Complicating matters is the hesitancy of her adoptive parents, especially her mother, who is dealing with her own emotional past, to allow the sisters to meet. Young Lily is a troubled teen dealing with an over protective mother and a traumatic past.

I enjoyed reading the journey these two families take toward healing during this trying time. I didn't know much about the cultural revolution, so this was an interesting history lesson as well. Despite the difficult topics, it is an intriguing page turner.

This book was provided free from the publisher for review.

Desiring God Dvd by John Piper

This dvd set is a recording of a lecture given by John Piper, based on his book Desiring God and explaining the concept of Christian hedonism. His premise is that "God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in him." He goes on to show us in scripture how God's goal is always to be glorified. Everything's purpose is to bring glory to Him. And that when we are satisfied in Him, when we find joy in Him, he is glorified. Piper disputes those who say it is a sin to find pleasure in God, that if we enjoy doing something, we are sinning. He shows over in over in scripture that our motivation is scripture is the reward in heaven. That while we may be making sacrifices in our walk, ultimately we will reap so much more in pursuing God.

This is a two dvd set with 10 sessions of about 30 minutes each. I watched it in about three sittings. Though I didn't find it easy to find time to sit down and watch them, when I did finally pop a disc in, it was easy to watch it through. There are so many great nuggets of truth in them, that I just kept watching. I will admit that sometimes his way of speaking could be distracting and sometimes my mind would start to wander, but he always brought me back with some insight that should be so clear and obvious but isn't always and I would think "wow, that's good." I plan to watch these again to remember points that he made. Lots to think about and ponder. And a challenge to me to examine my heart and ask do I desire God more than anything else? Is my joy found in Him?

If you have a heard time finding time to read, or if you learn better by listening you may find this video series helpful in summarizing the insights of the classic book by John Piper. There is also a study guide booklet that you can purchase that will help delve deeper either by yourself or with a group.

If you would like to learn more about Desiring God, you can visit this website www.desiringgod.org

You can read the first chapter of the book by clicking HERE.

This video can be purchased from the publisher by clicking HERE.

I received this video for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.


If you would like to be entered into a random drawing by the publiseher to receive this video for free, please rank my review. Your email address will only be used to verify that you are a real person and to contact you should you win.

Praying For Your Future Husband by Robin Jones Gunn and Tricia Goyer

I chose to review this for the Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group because the subject is one that interests me very much. While I admit that I have not been very disciplined about regularly praying for the future spouses of my children, it is something I do. Often I will pray through Power of a Praying Parent and tack on my future children in law as I pray for my own kids. But, it was nice to find a book that has prayers just for this purpose.

A little different format from the Power of... books, this book includes testimonials of both the authors and others who have shared their stories of prayers and answered prayers. It includes scriptures, poems, bullet points of things to pray for in a variety of areas such as praying your future spouce will be a "God Lover", that they will have patience, strength, etc. It includes sample prayers to pray for your future spouse and also prayers for yourself, how to prepare yourself, your attitude, your commitment, your character in a way that is pleasing to God and will help in future relationships.

I found the advice to be good and useful. I also appreciated that they addressed that God doesn't always have a spouse for everyone. Advice to live your life for our greatest lover of all, God, to the fullest and not just wait around for our prince or princess to show up. They advise to be patient and faithful while waiting for God's timing and to enjoy living in God's perfect will, whatever it may be.

I plan to have my girls read this book and to pray with them more as we wait to see who God will bring into their lives. I also plan to check out Mrs. Gunn's fiction books for young girls. They sound wonderful.

If you would like to read Chapter 1 of this book, click HERE.

Rank my review to be entered into a random drawing for a free book.



I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

Mine is the NIght by Liz Curtis Higgs

I was so excited to get to review Mine is the Night, the sequel to Here Burns My Candle by Liz Curtis Higgs. These wonderful books are set in 18th century Scotland and are based on the book of Ruth. Mine is the Night picks up with the part of the story we are most familiar with, when Ruth, or in this case Elizabeth, arrives back in the home of her mother in law.

I so enjoyed reading this book. It is like two stories in one and both are great stories. I enjoy reading and learning the Scottish history and the customs of that time and the characters are well developed and likeable. Wonderful lessons about trusting in God and his provision for us. We are reminded that every good gift comes from our Lord, not our titles or who we know on this earth, but our King in heaven, to whom our allegiance belongs.

As always it is fun to see how the Biblical story unfolds in the new time and setting. Ms. Higgs does a terrific job of telling the old familiar story and yet writing a new stor with new characters all her own at the same time. This one was especially fun for me as I just finished an indepth study of the book of Ruth with my Bible Study class. I had a new appreciation for this story after digging in deep in class and so it was fun to revisit it again in this book.

I highly recommend this book.

Click HERE to read Chapter one of this book.

Read about Liz Curtis Higgs HERE.

Liz Curtis Higgs' website



This book was provided for review by Multnomah Waterbrook publishers.

Mere Churchianity by Michael Spencer

This is a book for people who have left the church or are thinking about leaving the church. I am not planning on leaving the church, but am often frustrated by what the church has become, so I thought it would be an interesting read.

The author doesn't out and out say we should leave the church. He points out that there are benefits in both solitude with God and with community. And that Jesus sought both. What he does say is that, no matter where you worship and serve God, you should strive to live a "Jesus shaped life." We should be more concerned with thinking in terms of "if I spent three years with Jesus, what would I think about....", in other words, what did Jesus say about this situation and how did or would he respond than in church tradition that often doesn't reflect Jesus at all.

In describing why some people leave the church, I recognized myself several times. One was a feeling of being alone or isolated, even when in a big church with lots of stuff going on. Or being disillusioned when seeing a group of Christians being totally disrespectful and and inconsiderate and anything but examples of Christ like behavior. Interestingly, his example was of a youth group's behavior in a restaraunt toward non church members. Sadly, we all to often see that same unloving behavior inside the church doors toward our fellow church members.

At one point he says "I know a lot of church-leavers, and they aren't who you think. Many of them have left evangelical churches and found new homes in other Christian communities and traditions, often those that conservative Christians are convinced have "sold out" and gone "liberal". Later in the book he points out that the "map of truth" is not just the property of one kind of church. That there are many paths to the truth in both the evangelical and mainline traditions and that we often miss important truths by rejecting the other paths completely. This really hit home with me. My background includes paths in many different traditions and I value them all for what they bring to the table. While I disagree theologically with some of the beliefs of some of my friends in some of more mainline denominations, I often look at what their churches are doing and think that they are more on the mark for actually following Christ's example in serving mankind. I often struggle with that balance. Wishing that I could have the best of both worlds.

He encourages us not to judge those who have left the church and empowers those who chose to walk a different path. Reminding us that our main objective is to follow Jesus and to serve him no matter where we are. That we can worship and serve him in often unexpected ways.

I encourage everyone to pick up this book. Whether you are disillusioned with the church or not. It can serve as a mirror for to see where our priorities lie and whether our walk is patterned more after Jesus's ministry or whether our lives or more shaped by man's tradition.

To read chapter 1, follow this link.

Author Bio:
During the years when he was blogging as the Internet Monk (www.internetmonk.com), Michael Spencer was followed by hundreds of thousands of readers. He offered a lifeline to the spiritually dispossessed in his speaking, teaching, and writing. Michael graduated from Kentucky Wesleyan College and earned a master’s degree in theology from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. For seventeen years, he taught Bible and served as campus minister at a Christian school in Kentucky. Michael passed away in April 2010.

The Internet Monk Blog



I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

Divine Appointments by Charlene Ann Baumbich

This is the second in a series called Snowglobe Connections, the first being Stray Affections, which I also reviewed.

This book focuses on employees of a company that is being restructured with the help of a consultant, Josie. We meet Josie briefly in Stray Affections and this book tells the story of her strange encounter with a mysterious snow globe. Josie a very independent, strong, 47 year old who's life is going just like she wants it, or so she thinks. We also meet several other characters who are dealing with the upheaval of downsizing and other personal issues.

It is easy and enjoyable to read. There is a good message about people not always being who they seem. To not judge them based on initial impressions. And sometimes we are not who we think we are. It is also a pretty relevant book dealing with the economy and job loss and we could learn something about dealing with these troubling times from the characters here.

There were some unexpected turns that could have really turned this book in another direction, but were handled well to keep the book uplifting.

Click HERE to read the first chapter of this book.

About the author:
Charlene Ann Baumbich is a popular author, speaker, and award-winning journalist who is passionate about rejuvenating lives through humor. Her writing includes the best-selling Dearest Dorothy series and Stray Affections, the first Snowglobe Connections novel, and seven inspirational nonfiction books. Charlene lives with her husband in Glen Ellyn, Illinois.

The author's website.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

Radical by David Platt Giveaway!!

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review. I had heard of it before and it had been on my list of books to get and read, so I jumped at the chance to review it.

This book was so good, but so challenging. If you are comfortable living the American Dream, sitting back and relaxing at church and letting the pastor do all the work, this book may make you a little uncomfortable. Ok, it should make you uncomfortable.

David Platt challenges us to live a radical life for Christ. To stop just living the American Dream of getting it all and to follow Christ's vision of giving it all up to so that we may reap the ultimate reward. To give and to go and to share His Word with the lost. Yeah, we've all heard that before, but not quite like this. There were times in this book that it was hard to go on as I examined my life in light of what he had to say. It is easy to think we are doing all that God expects and really not be doing all that much. To be "going through the motions" as Matthew West sings.

Learn how we are ALL instructed to GO, to be teachers (not just those with the gift of teaching), to give sacrificially and take the Gospel to the billions who need to hear it. The author issues a challenge to follow five steps for a radical life for one year and see how it changes your life and impacts the world. A radical life according to the world's standards, but the only way to live according to Jesus's standards.

As I finished this book as the year comes to a close, I realized how great the timing is. While I don't usually make New Year's resolutions, I like the idea of starting my year of radical living as the new year begins. If you want to start your year out living radically for God, I highly recommend you read this book!

You will learn what "radical abandonment to Jesus really means, discover the truth and beauty of the Gospel, the importance of relying on God's power, God's global purpose from the beginning till today, how all of us join together to fulfill God's purpose, how much is enough, why going is urgent, not optional and the risks and rewards of a radical life".

If you are ready to be challenged and would like to read this book, I have an extra copy to give away! If you would like to win a copy of this book, please leave a comment by January 7 and I will choose a winner randomly. The winner will have one week to respond with their address to send the book to before I choose another winner.

Update: The publishers are now hosting giveaways. To enter into a random drawing to receive this book, please rank my review. Your email address is used only to verify that a real person is ranking and to notify you if you are a winner.

Life In Spite of Me by Kristen Jane Anderson

About This Book

She wanted to die. God had other plans.

Why does my life have to be so painful?
What’s wrong with me?
It’s not going to get better.
It could all be over soon, and then I won’t hurt anymore.

Kristen Anderson thought she had the picture-perfect life until strokes of gray dimmed her outlook: three friends and her grandmother died within two years. Still reeling from these losses, she was raped by a friend she thought she could trust. She soon spiraled into a seemingly bottomless depression.

One January night, the seventeen-year-old decided she no longer wanted to deal with the emotional pain that smothered her. She lay down on a set of cold railroad tracks and waited for a freight train to send her to heaven…and peace.

But Kristen's story doesn’t end there.

In Life, In Spite of Me this remarkably joyful young woman shares the miracle of her survival, the agonizing aftermath of her failed suicide attempt, and the hope that has completely transformed her life, giving her a powerful purpose for living.

Her gripping story of finding joy against all odds provides a vivid and unforgettable reminder that life is a gift to be treasured.

Includes notes of encouragement Kristen wishes she had received when she was struggling most.

VIDEO of KRISTEN

My thoughts:

As depressing as a book like this could be, it wasn't. It was very inspiring to see Kristen grab hold of the second chance that God gave her and to live for him. I also appreciate that she was honest about the fact that just because she had a relationship with Christ didn't mean the struggles instantly disappeared. Life was still hard, but she did find Christ was sufficient to meet her needs. Good book!

This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group

Blog Tour: The Bridegrooms by Allison Pittman

About This Book

It Only Takes an Instant for Love to Strike


Tragedy hits the Allenhouse family on a hot summer night in Ohio when a mother of four vanished. Eight-year-old Vada virtually grew up overnight and raised her three younger sisters while her father lost himself in his medical practice in the basement of their home.

Now, Vada is a grown woman, still making her home with her father and sisters. Her days are spent serving as an errand girl for Cleveland’s fledgling amateur orchestra; her evenings with Garrison Walker, her devoted, if passionless, beau.

Dizzying change occurs the day the Brooklyn Bridegrooms come to town to play the Cleveland Spiders and a line drive wallops the head of a spectator. The fan is whisked to the Allenhouse parlor, and questions swirl about the anonymous, unconscious man.

Suddenly, the subdued house is filled with visitors, from a flirtatious, would-be sports writer to the Bridegrooms’ handsome star hitter to the guilt-ridden ballplayer who should have caught the stray shot. The medical case brings Dr. Allenhouse a frustration and helplessness he hasn’t felt since his wife’s disappearance. Vada’s sisters are giddy at the bevy of possible suitors. And Vada’s life is awakened amid the super-charged atmosphere of romantic opportunity.

My Thoughts:

This was an ok book. It held my attention enough to finish the book, but it didn't scream great book. I would have liked to see more of a historical aspect, especially with the baseball teams, and I didn't feel like I really got to know most of the characters well.

This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group

Blog Tour: This Little Prayer of Mine by Anthony DeStefano

Publisher's Summary:
Author Anthony DeStefano’s adult books, The Prayers God Always Says Yes To and A Travel Guide to Heaven, have sold a quarter-million copies. Illustrator Mark Elliott’s cherished artwork has appeared in popular picture books and novels for young readers, including Gail Carson Levine’s ever-popular Princess Tales series.

Now, these acclaimed inspirational experts have come together to create This Little Prayer of Mine, a beautiful and alluring book designed to guide children into a very simple, real and expressive relationship with God.

Through engaging rhymes and alluring illustrations, This Little Prayer of Mine shows children—and their parents and grandparents—that complete dependence on God is what brings peace and fulfillment. It invites children to know and believe that God is always just a simple prayer away and that He longs to respond to them with a resounding, “Yes!”

This Little Prayer of Mine appeals to readers from all different faiths. Easy-reader format allows children to read alone, or with someone older, and encourages them to openly express their fears, thanks, and needs directly to God.

Author Bio:

Anthony DeStefano is the author of The Prayers God Always Says Yes To and A Travel Guide to Heaven. He has received prestigious awards from religious organizations worldwide for his efforts to advance Christian beliefs in modern culture.

Mark Elliott’s brilliant illustrations have appeared in popular picture books and novels for young readers, including Gail Carson Levine’s Princess Tales series. His acclaimed artwork delivers inspiration, wonder, and timeless beauty on every page.

My Thoughts:

This was a nice little book for children. The pictures are very nice, not too cartoony or cutesy but just beautifully done pictures of children. It has a nice little prayer that reminds children that God cares about the things we think about and care about.

Click HERE for more information on the book and where to purchase it.

This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

Blog Tour: An Absence So Great by Jane Kirkpatrick

Publisher's Summary:

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

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

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

Author Bio:

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

My Thoughts:

I love historical fiction so I enjoyed reading this for the history included. The photographic information was interesting. I didn't realize that photographers were at risk of mercury poisoning. I knew about the hatters but not about photographers.

Click HERE for more information on this book and where to purchase it.

This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

Blog Tour and Giveaway: Here Burns My Candle by Liz Curtis Higgs

"It’s been 4 years since Liz Curtis Higgs’s last novel, and she’s made good use of that time studying Scottish history and the Scriptures. And now she offers a retelling of the beloved Old Testament story of Ruth and Naomi set in 18^th Century Scotland. Visit the Lowlands in Here Burns My Candle."

My Thoughts:

I love Liz Curtis Higgs books! I was so excited to be able to review her newest book! Unfortunately, though it was Spring Break, it has been a crazy busy week and I was at a youth conference this weekend, so I am late getting this review posted. But, better late than never.

This book did not disappoint and was well worth the wait for a new LCH novel. This time the book was based on the story of Ruth and set in Scotland during the Jacobite uprising of 1745. One of the fun things about Liz Curtis Higgs's biblical novels is that, being familiar with the Bible stories, you kind of have a hint about the story, but they are still new stories. You know key points that have to be hit, but you don't know how they will happen. That was the case here, but since this book takes place during the part of Ruth that we don't have a lot of details for, most of the story is new to the reader. I didn't realize that there was another book after this one and toward the end I started to get worried because the story wasn't wrapping up like I knew it should and there wasn't much book left! I was afraid the rest of the story was all going to be crammed into the last few chapters.

I love how these books give the reader new insights into the characters that we know so well. Obviously, we can't really know the between the lines aspects of the character's lives. These characters are fictional. But it is fun to read their stories think about them in a different light, see them more fleshed out. We only get a brief look at Orpah in the Bible. We don't know much about her other than she chose to stay rather than go with Naomi. But there was obviously so much more to the story. And there is so much more to why Ruth chose to go. This book tells the "before" story. At least for the 18th century Scottish characters that parallel Orpah and Ruth and Naomi.

Wonderful story telling. I highly recommend this book!

Publisher's Summary:

A mother who cannot face her future.
A daughter who cannot escape her past.
Lady Elisabeth Kerr is a keeper of secrets. A Highlander by birth and a Lowlander by marriage, she honors the auld ways, even as doubts and fears stir deep within her.
Her husband, Lord Donald, has secrets of his own, well hidden from the household, yet whispered among the town gossips.
His mother, the dowager Lady Marjory, hides gold beneath her floor and guilt inside her heart. Though her two abiding passions are maintaining her place in society and coddling her grown sons, Marjory’s many regrets, buried in Greyfriars Churchyard, continue to plague her.
One by one the Kerr family secrets begin to surface, even as bonny Prince Charlie and his rebel army ride into Edinburgh in September 1745, intent on capturing the crown.
A timeless story of love and betrayal, loss and redemption, flickering against the vivid backdrop of eighteenth-century Scotland, Here Burns My Candle illumines the dark side of human nature, even as hope, the brightest of tapers, lights the way home.

Author Bio:

LIZ CURTIS HIGGS is the author of twenty-seven books with three million copies in print, including: her best-selling historical novels, Thorn in My Heart, Fair Is the Rose, Christy Award-winner Whence Came a Prince, and Grace in Thine Eyes, a Christy Award finalist; My Heart’s in the Lowlands: Ten Days in Bonny Scotland, an armchair travel guide to Galloway; and her contemporary novels, Mixed Signals, a Rita Award finalist, and Bookends, a Christy Award finalist. Visit the author’s extensive website at www.lizcurtishiggs.com.

For more info on how to purchase this book, click HERE.

This was book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah.

GIVEAWAY!

I have been provided with a copy of this book to give away to one lucky reader! If you would like a copy of this book, please leave a comment before April 3. You must leave a way to contact you. The winner will have one week after I contact them to send me their address before I draw another winner.

Start Here by Alex & Brett Harris

I was invited to preview the Harris brother's new book, Start Here, for the publishers. I have read and loved several of Joshua Harris's books and was intrigued with the Rebelution and Do Hard Things, so I jumped at the chance to read what Alex and Brett had to say. I had yet to read Do Hard Things, so I checked it out from the library and have been reading it out loud to the family. Everyone is enjoying it and being challenged by it and thinking about the hard things we can do.

Start Here is a practical guide to getting started with, following through and "getting done" with hard things. It gives good advice on how to know which hard things to tackle and when to start them. They remind us that what we think is the challenge we need to take up is not always what God has for us at that moment. Sometimes we need to work on seemingly small things to be better equipped for the bigger project. One quote that stood out is "It's easy to confuse 'do hard things' with the idea of 'do big things.' A push-up isn't a big thing. Winning the championship is. But, doing push-ups when you don't feel like it is what it takes to win in a championship fight." I appreciated the list at the back of the book of 100 Hard Things. It was another good reminder that you don't have to sail a boat solo around the world (my favorite story from the book!) to be doing hard things. Sometimes just stopping gossip is a hard thing. And it is an important thing. But sometimes we are called to do really big hard things, like sail around the world or plan a big event.

They discuss the challenges that sometimes come with our hard things and remind us that just because we are doing the right thing at the right time (and that "the right thing at the wrong time is the wrong thing"), doesn't mean that we won't have bumps along the road.

They discuss what happens when you finish a hard thing and where you go from there. Dealing with the attention you might receive and turning the glory to God. Learning from the process and applying it to another project.

There are lots of stories from other Rebelutionaries sharing what they have done and the ups and downs of doing those things.

A great practical guide for rebelutionaries wanting to do hard things where they are. A great companion to Do Hard Things. A must read for teens (or anyone) who want to make a difference for the Kingdom.


Publisher's Summary:

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

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

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

Author bio:

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

To purchase, click HERE.

How was my review? Please rank it below. Your email is used only to verify that you are a real person, it will not be used to solicit you.

This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

Blog Tour: Dancing with My Father and Mother-Daughter Duet

Dancing with My Father by Sally Clarkson

The reality of living in a broken, fallen world can leave women feeling overcome by fear, guilt, and weariness. Many develop “sawdust souls,” numb to any sense of joy.

In this warm and wise book, author Sally Clarkson invites readers to take God’s hand and let Him lead them into a life of anticipation, passion, and purpose. With the voice of a trusted mentor, she reveals how, by getting in tune with the rhythm of God’s presence, women can nurture an inner attitude of anticipation and celebration even in the stressful seasons of life.

Through rich biblical insights woven with real-life stories, women will be inspired to recapture a spirit of joy as they follow God’s lead on the dance floor of life.

Sally Clarkson is a popular speaker, known across the nation and internationally for her work with women. She is the author of several books, including The Mission of Motherhood, The Ministry of Motherhood, and Seasons of a Mother’s Heart. She has worked in various ministries, including Campus Crusade for Christ. With her husband, Clay, she is cofounder of Whole Heart Ministries, which encourages and equips Christian parents. The Clarksons, parents of four, live near Colorado Springs, Colorado.

To purchase, click HERE.

My Thoughts:

This book fit right in with my pursuit of Joy. I have been studying Philippians and other books on the subject and actively working on living with Joy in all circumstances. And this book was a wonderful addition to my studies. Mrs. Clarkson discusses practical ways of finding and keeping joy even in the midst of what sometimes seems like the drudgery of life. The book includes questions at the end of each chapter for personal reflection and to help the reader delve more into what it takes to find and live with Joy. This book went on the top of the list of books that I plan to recommend for "Christian Living" month for my book club.

Mother-Daughter Duet by Cheri Fuller and Ali Plum

When a daughter is born, her mother has a thousand hopes and dreams for her, especially that they will be best friends one day.

Unfortunately, even the best of intentions can go awry. There are so many challenges on the journey to adult friendship that the reality is fraught with friction

and frustration. But a harmonious relationship is possible.

Award-winning author Cheri Fuller and her daughter, Ali Plum, have been there and have discovered the keys to a healthy relationship. In Mother-Daughter Duet they share their story—each from her own perspective—in which they have experienced distance and tension, growth and challenge, and, ultimately, acceptance and harmony. Filled with personal anecdotes and based on several basic principles (letting go; listening; respect; setting boundaries; and more), Mother-Daughter Duet helps moms repair the breach so that daughters want to draw close.

The mother-daughter dynamic is intense, personal, complex, and unique. But mothers and daughters can achieve mutual respect and learn to celebrate their differences when they learn the two-part harmony of the mother-daughter duet.

Cheri Fuller is a best-selling, award-winning author whose books have sold more than one million copies. She speaks to a wide range of women at women’s conferences and is a frequent guest on national radio and television programs.

Ali Plum is Cheri’s daughter, a writer and songwriter, a wife, and a mother to Noah and Luke. She and her mom have weathered the ups and downs of their relationship to find one of the most treasured, honest relationships of their lives. Ali has recorded background vocals for popular musicians, and Mother-Daughter Duet marks her debut into book publishing.

To purchase click HERE.

My Thoughts:

I had a harder time with this book. In fact, I started it first and put it down to read Sally Clarkson's book instead because I just wasn't getting into this one. I did pick it up again and finish it. I went back and forth between finding it insightful and thinking it was not for me. I think part of it was that I am not at a stage where this applies to me. My mother and I have a pretty good relationship. My daughters are still at home and not ready to leave the nest. It did give me some things to think about for the future.

I think, too, is that I just had a hard time relating to either of the generations represented here. I think I actually fit in better with the mother than the daughter. I would read the daughter's thoughts and find them almost foreign to me at times. And while, I admit that I can be selfish in my relationship with my mother, often thinking of what she can do to help ME, I did find it rather irritating to see this book be all about how the mother can relate to the daughter. What the mother can do for the daughter. How buying the daughter things can really help the relationship. What? Aren't relationships a give and take thing? I we are to be adults, aren't we supposed to start reciprocating some of this serving and compromising and understanding?

That aside, it did have some good advise for those struggling with their relationship with their adult daughter. I think that it could be a helpful read for many. There was some good advise about letting go, respecting your daughter's differences and independence, allowing her the freedom to be herself and do things differently that you did, etc.

These books were provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

Blog Tour: Value Fiction for Your Spring Break

Value Fiction For Your Spring Break

Colorado Springs, CO— Fiction lovers don’t need to budget to travel this spring break with Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group’s six full-length novels by beloved Christian authors (WaterBrook, February 16, 2010). At the low cost of only $5.99, these well-read “get-aways” provide quality entertainment at a price that any reader can afford.

Full-length novels offered include:

Secrets

by Robin Jones Gunn - Jessica has moved to a new town to start a new life. But a friendly fire-fighter and a suspicious boss both want to know what she’s hiding.

Beneath a Southern Sky

by Deborah Raney – Daria Camfield is expecting her first child when her husband Nate is reported dead on the mission field. Devastated, she returns to the States and soon marries again. But two years later Nate is found alive in the jungle. How can Daria possibly choose between he two men who love her?

The Golden Cross

by Angela Elwell Hunt – Aidan O’Connor may be a poor barmaid but she’s also a gifted artists. When a famous cartographer takes her on as a student, Aidan is swept into an adventure that will bring her back to her heavenly Father, and into marriage with the love of her life.

Deep Harbor

by Lisa Tawn Bergren – Tora, Elsa, Kaatje, and Karl face trouble, tragedy, and treachery across the Wast, Hawaii, Japan, and the high seas. These four immigrants from Bergen, Norway, each grow closer to God and learn afresh the value of faith, family, and coming alongside each other in times of need.

Faithful Heart

by Al and Joanna Lacy – The adventures of certified medical nurse and dedicated Christian Breanna Baylor continue as she travels by wagon train to visit her sister, Dottie, in California. Little does she know that her most dangerous encounter might be with Jerrod, her brother-in-law, who’s suffering from dementia caused by combat fatigue.

Yesterday’s Promise

by Linda Lee Chaikin – Rogan Chantry faces danger from tribesmen, ruthless politicians, and his own family as he searches for gold in South Africa. In England, his beloved Evy is injured by a mysterious assailant. The greed and intrigue surrounding the diamond mines could very well drive them irrevocably apart.

My Thoughts:

I received Faithful Heart and Beneath a Southern Sky to review.

I enjoy historical fiction and while I don't make a steady diet the often mass produced value title type books, I do enjoy them once in awhile. So, I anticipated enjoying Faithful Heart, set around the Civil War time, which I love to read about. Unfortunately, I had a hard time getting into this book. Maybe, in part, because I was jumping into the middle of a series. Though, I did appreciate the author bringing us up to speed in the prologue. That did help a lot. Mostly, I think it was just that the writing style just made it hard to get into the story. The story had a lot of potential. The subject was a good one and interesting. There just wasn't any depth to it.

Also, very quickly, historical credibility was lost when the author said that San Francisco was named for an explorer. My research indicates that the city was named for St. Francis of Assisi. (Not something I easily forget!) I was also dubious of the term "truck farm" being used before motor vehicles were invented. But, I do have to admit I was wrong and learned something there! In this case the term "truck" comes from french word for "barter" and was in fact correct. So, hey, despite the fact that this book wasn't all I hope for, it did do what I like a good historical novel to get me to do, go look up facts and learn more!

I also thought some of the scriptures and advice dealing with why Christians don’t always get healed were good. Some interesting thoughts. I don’t know that I am convinced that Paul’s thorn was definitely a physical ailment, but the thought that Luke was along as a personal physician for Paul was a new and interesting one.

Beneath a Southern Sky

Wow. This book was so good. While there were a very few places where writing seemed redundant and one word choice seemed off, the story was amazing and well written. This is the kind of situation where there are no easy answers. And until just before the decision was made, I had no idea how it would turn out. And even when I did guess, I was still surprised at how the story ended.

At a time when I am currently struggling with some things that just are hard to understand. A time where we wonder what God has planned for us during a trying time, this was so perfect. It was a great example of how God brings good out of trials. How God's plans are bigger than we can imagine and that he works through even the most horrific trials and despite our human failures. And such an amazing example of choosing God's will over our own.

The Gospel was clearly presented and an wonderful testimony to God's faithfulness and peace presented. I highly recommend this book!

These books were provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

Blog Tour: Hear No Evil

Publisher's Summary:

A collection of wise, compelling, and often uproariously funny essays built around the experience of music as a transformational element in a moment of truth, Hear No Evil mines Matthew Paul Turner’s humorous memories of his evangelical youth and invites readers to groove along on his journey.

From attending forbidden contemporary Christian concerts to moving to “Music City” Nashville, Hear No Evil chronicles Turner’s “life soundtrack” which morphs seamlessly into the stories of people, places, and experiences that have taught the music-editor-turned-author some new things about God, forced him out of his comfort zone, and introduced him to a fresh view of grace along the way.

If you’ve ever had the opening bars of a song transport you back in time or remind you of a pivotal spiritual moment, Matthew Paul Turner’s honest—and frequently hilarious—musings will strike a chord. Straight forward and amusing, Hear No Evil is an exploration of a life of faith lived to a personal soundtrack.

Author Bio:

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

My Thoughts:
Dc Talk's Kevin Max is quoted on the back as saying "Matthew Paul Turner's wit and insight promise to keep the pages turning and the readers laughing." Well, he delivered on that promise for me. I would have finished this book in one night if my husband had not turned out the lights on me at 2am and made me put the book away. Probably in part because he knew he was not going to get any sleep with me busting out laughing every few minutes. I didn't agree with all the author's observations, but most of the book was entertaining and thought provoking.

Now, I will say that with all his Christian music industry name dropping, I was quite anxious to see if he would mention Rich Mullins and to see what he would have to say. Ok a point in his favor, he did finally get around to mentioning Rich on page 172. But, I was disappointed that it was simply to explain that he fell in love with Amy Grant when first hearing Sing Your Praise to the Lord. He went on to explain that he felt like he was in heaven listening to Rich's Bach inspired introduction over and over. And that was the extent of his discussion of Rich. All that told me that he fell in love with RICH'S song and that made him a fan of Amy! I was quite curious to see what his thoughts were on Rich were, but maybe it's good he didn't say more.

Ok, despite the fact that Amy and not Rich is one of his favorite Christian artists, I enjoyed the book. I want to read some of his other books, especially The Christian Culture Survival Guide. His observations on the Christian culture that he grew up and worked in were often humorous if not often sadly true.


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To learn more about or purchase this book at RandomHouse.com, click HERE.

This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

Tea with Hezbollah

Publisher's Summary:
Is it really possible to love one’s enemies?

That’s the question that sparked a fascinating and, at times, terrifying journey into the heart of the Middle East during the summer of 2008. It was a trip that began in Egypt, passed beneath the steel and glass high rises of Saudi Arabia, then wound through the bullet- pocked alleyways of Beirut and dusty streets of Damascus, before ending at the cradle of the world’s three major religions: Jerusalem.

Tea with Hezbollah combines nail-biting narrative with the texture of rich historical background, as readers join novelist Ted Dekker and his co-author and Middle East expert, Carl Medearis, on a hair-raising journey. They are with them in every rocky cab ride, late-night border crossing, and back-room conversation as they sit down one-on-one with some of the most notorious leaders of the Arab world. These candid discussions with leaders of Hezbollah and Hamas, with muftis, sheikhs, and ayatollahs, with Osama bin Laden’s brothers, reveal these men to be real people with emotions, fears, and hopes of their own. Along the way, Dekker and Medearis discover surprising answers and even more surprising questions that they could not have anticipated—questions that lead straight to the heart of Middle Eastern conflict.

Through powerful narrative Tea With Hezbollah will draw the West into a completely fresh understanding of those we call our enemies and the teaching that dares us to love them. A must read for all who see the looming threat rising in the Middle East.

Author Bio:

Ted Dekker is the author of many nationally bestselling novels, including Bone Man’s Daughters, The Circle Trilogy, Thr3e, and House, which was coauthored by Frank Peretti. His unique style of storytelling has captured the attention of millions worldwide. Visit him at TedDekker.com.

Carl Medearis is the founder and president of International Initiatives, LLC, an organization that promotes cultural, educational, and commercial exchange between the East and the West. He is an advisor on Arab affairs to the members of the U.S. Congress and leaders in international business.

My Thoughts:

To be honest, though the concept of this book was intriguing enough to entice me to sign up for this blog tour, I wasn't sure how I would do with this book. Ted Dekker is not an author that I read. His genre is not my cup of tea (no pun intended). And the Middle East? Terrorists? I just wasn't sure. But, in the end, it was not a problem. I had no trouble with it. It was a very interesting book and easy to get into. I really enjoyed reading it. I think Ted was more scared than me! In fact my only c omplaint in the beginning was that I thought he over did the "are we crazy to be doing this" just a little. I mean, I know it was dangerous, but how many times did he have to say it.

This book reminded me a bit of Three Cups of Tea. In searching out what we consider out biggest enemies to discuss Jesus's command to love our neighbors/enemies, they allowed us to get to know our enemies in order to love them more. It was eye opening to read their interviews and hear their thoughts. It helped personify these groups and give more understanding.

I took this book as a challenge for myself. Do we love our enemies? Do we even love our neighbors? What does it mean to be a Christian, a follower of Christ? Do we represent Christ properly? Do we love and obey him? This was especially thought provoking to me because I have a literal neighbor that I am challenged to love because he has behaved as the enemy at times. I am constantly challenged in how to love him without endangering my family.

This book is part travelouge of a very interesting part of our world. Rich in history and complex backgrounds. Part parable, part religious education, part humanitarian effort to help us get to know our enemies our neighbors in the Middle East. Shoot, our neighbors all around us. There are Muslims, Jews, Christians all around us. Do we love them as we should? As Christ does?

This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

Interested in reading this book? Click HERE for info on where it can be purchased.

GIVEAWAY

I have a copy of this book to giveaway. If you would like to win a copy of this book, please leave a comment in the comment box by January 29. You must leave a way to contact you if you win. If I don't have an address for the winner within a week of the drawing, I will choose a new winner.

Blog Tour: Dug Down Deep by Joshua Harris

Publisher's Summary:

What will you build your life on?

With startling transparency, Joshua Harris shares how we can rediscover the relevance and power of Christian truth. This is book shows a young man who rose quickly to success in the Christian evangelical world before he realized his spirituality lacked a foundation—it rested more on tradition and morality than on an informed knowledge of God.

For the indifferent or spiritually numb, Harris's humorous and engaging reflections on Christian beliefs show that orthodoxy isn't just for scholars—it is for anyone who longs to know the living Jesus Christ. As Harris writes, "I've come to learn that theology matters. It matters not because we want to impress people, but because what we know about God shapes the way we think and live. Theology matters because if we get it wrong then our whole life will be wrong."

Whether you are just exploring Christianity or you are a veteran believer finding yourself overly familiar and cold-hearted, Dug Down Deep will help you rediscover the timeless truths of Scripture. As Harris challenges you to root your faith and feelings about God in the person, work, and words of Jesus, he answers questions such as:

What is God like and how does he speak to me?What difference does it make that Jesus was both human and divine?How does Jesus's death on the cross pay for my sins?Who is the Holy Spirit and how does he work in my life?
With grace and wisdom, Harris will inspire you to revel in the truth that has captured his own mind and heart. He will ask you to dig deep into a faith so solid you can build your life on it. He will point you to something to believe in again.

Joshua Harris is senior pastor of Covenant Life in Gaithersburg, Maryland, which belongs to the Sovereign Grace network of local churches. A passionate speaker with a gift for making theological truth easy to understand, Joshua is perhaps best known for his runaway bestseller, I Kissed Dating Goodbye, which he wrote at the age of twenty-one. His later books include Boy Meets Girl, Sex Is Not the Problem (Lust Is), and Stop Dating the Church. The founder of the NEXT conferences for young adults, Joshua is committed to seeing the gospel transferred to a new generation of Christians. He and his wife, Shannon, have three children.

My Thoughts:
I enjoyed reading this book. While Mr. Harris refers to it as a "boring book" (jokingly I assume) in his acknowledgements, I found it to be engaging and easy to read. He teaches on theology, orthodoxy, doctrine in down to earth terms and insightfully. He quotes authors like J.I. Packer, who's book I never quite made it through, in a way that makes me want to take up the book again. He brings truths from sometimes hard to read books to a level that is easier to read, but no less true or powerful. He also shares insights and knowledge gained from his personal walk and shares his father's testimony in an example of how God saves.

Personally, I really appreciated his chapter on the Holy Spirit. Coming from a liturgical/charismatic/evangelical background, I could relate so much to a lot he had to say. He summed up my feelings on the matter well and reassured me on some things that I still struggle with based on my mixed experiences with Spirit teaching.

I also appreciated the chapter on Humble Orthodoxy. He reminds us of something that Rich Mullins once said. "God is right, the rest of us are just guessing." We are all saved by grace. We have all been wrong. We need to share the truth and the love of Christ, but not in a prideful, spiteful way. As Paul taught Timothy, "The Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness."

I plan to hand this book to my children to help encourage them and strengthen them in their walks with Christ as well.

This was book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah.