The Books on My Shelf

The Race - Clive Cussler

2012-02-01T12:27:00.000-08:00

The Race

An Isaac Bell Adventure

Clive Cussler and Justin Scott

G.P.Putnam & Sons

ISBN 978-0-399-15781-3

When a big newspaper mogul, in 1910, sponsors a flying machine race from New York to California, and a prize of $50,000 is at stake, some pretty unsavory characters are bound to get involved!

For Harry Frost, that means attempting to murder his traitorous wife, Josephine.

Isaac Bell, and the Van Dorn agency intervenes to protect the Sweetheart of America as she takes to the air.

But who will win? And who... will lose more than just the prize?

This is a non-stop thriller that will keep you turning the pages. Another great action-packed novel by Cussler!

I give this one...

...five stars and...

...my thumbs up!

****DISCLOSURE: This book was a private purchase and was under no obligation for review.

The Secret Crown - Chris Kuzneski

2012-01-05T18:29:00.000-08:00

The Secret Crown

Chris Kuzneski

Published by the Penguin Group

For Release January 12, 2012

In a fast-paced, super action-packed story, Kuzneski gives us two men who are unstoppable. Think Dan Brown's Robert Langdon, Clive Cussler's Dirk Pitt, Indiana Jones and Rambo all rolled into the two, and the possibilities for action, intrigue, mayhem and secret treasures are unfathomable!

I literally read this book in one sitting! I simply could not put it down.

I have one thing to say... Mr. Kuzneski, when does production for a movie begin? This book reads like a fantastic movie from start to finish!

Kuzneski has a way of drawing the reader into the action, until you can smell the gunpowder, the blood, touch the treasure and feel the adrenaline rush!

I give this book...

...Five Stars and...

...my Thumbs Up!

***DISCLOSURE: This book was provided by G.P. Putnam & Sons through the Library Thing in exchange for an independent and non-biased review.

At The Mercy of The Queen - Anne Clinard Barnhill

2012-01-04T12:14:00.000-08:00

At The Mercy Of The Queen

Anne Clinard Barnhill

St. Martin's Press

ISBN 978-0-312-66213-4

Lady Margaret Shelton, known by family as Madge, was called upon to serve in the chambers of the Queen; her own cousin, Anne Boleyn, recently wed to King Henry VIII.

What started as an honor and a privilege few would ever know soon began to have consquences that might very well go beyond what Madge was willing to pay.

At a time of great unrest, Madge must choose between what is safe, what is honest, and pure, and serving her Queen. Even if that meant her life.

Ann Boleyn is portrayed here with amazing accuracy, although all occasions are fictitious. The story takes the reader right up to the last days of the lovely Queen Anne, and those who loved her best.

I give this book...

...Five Stars and...

...my Thumbs Up!

**** DISCLOSURE: This book was provided by Amazon Vine in exchange of an independent and non-biased review.

2011 Goal Surpassed!

2012-01-03T14:03:00.001-08:00

2011's Reading Goal...

SURPASSED!

Yep, you read that right! My goal was to read 50 books in 2011, and by golly, the total came to 64!!! I passed the goal by fourteen books! Yes... 14!

The goal for 2012?

Let's read one book a week in 2012, for a year end total of 52!

Who's gonna join me?

The One Year Uncommon Life Giveaway Winner Announced!

2012-01-01T08:49:00.000-08:00

The winner of our giveaway is....

VV !

VV if you will send me your postal address, your coupon for a free copy of this book is on it's way to you!

Be watching for more giveaways soon!

Fodor's Germany - 26th Edition

2011-12-30T20:26:00.000-08:00

Fodor's Germany

ISBN 978-0-679-00959-7

Having travelled extensively about Germany in the late '70's and early '80's, I wanted to get a look at what a travel guide regarding this country looked like today. I was pleasantly surprised to see how much more eclectic it has become in 30 years!

Covering everything from beer houses to wine country, and romance to fairy-tale, this guide is unique and thorough! It covers the best markets, restaurants, places to stay, and of course, the best and must places to see! From the small child to the elderly, Fodor's Germany offers a plethora of travel excitement that will lend you a lifetime of memories to cherish!

I give Fodor's Germany...

...Five Stars and...

...my Thumbs Up!

***DISCLOSURE: This book was provided by Amazon Vine in exchange of an independent and unbiased review.

A Giveaway! - The One Year Uncommon Life Daily Challenge by Tony Dungy

2011-12-26T01:00:00.000-08:00

The One Year Uncommon Life Daily Challenge

Tony Dungy and Nathan Whitaker

Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.

ISBN 978-1-4143-4828-5

I have to admit, before I received this book I had no idea who Tony Dungy was! Come to find out, he is a Super Bowl - winning coach! [Even I know what the Super Bowl is!]

Not being sports minded, however, I was a bit trepidatious at reviewing this book. I mean, what was this coach going to tell me about life's daily challenges! I even said so to Texican, my dh, who usually reads everything I do, but after I have reviewed it.

"Honey, give it a chance!" he coaxed me.

"Why don't you read it then?" I asked. I thought perhaps he could read it, give me his thoughts on it, and then I could simply re-write those thoughts as my own review. After all, that would be just as good, right?

"Babe, that wouldn't be very honest," he warned.

So, I sat down one evening, wrapped in my favorite afghan, with a cup of warm cocoa, and opened the book. 'I'll just give it a good skimming, and then write the review from that,' I promised myself.

Five and a half hours later, I finished the last page and sat there stunned that I had read a daily devotional completely through without even taking a break.

Yes.... Tony Dungy is that good!

Super Bowl-winning coach? Well, I can't say anything about that, except that if this man coaches football anywhere near as excellent as he can coach Christians into an 'Uncommon' walk in this life, there's no wonder his team has won such an honor!

I've used daily devotional's before, mostly as a guide when I was feeling lazy about coordinating my personal Bible study time. But this book is something that will lead you along paths of walking a different life than the world about you. An Uncommon Life!. This is one devotional that will be used again, and again, and again!

Take a listen to what Coach Dungy has to say about this:

You can read more about Coach Dungy here, and view the book on Tyndale's website here.

I highly recommend The One Year Uncommon Life Daily Challenge to readers of all ages! There are daily scriptures, followed by Coach Dungy's words of encouragement, and closing each day with an Uncommon Key, to help you walk each day in an Uncommon way!

I give this book...

...Five Stars and...

...my Thumbs Up award!

And thanks to Tyndale Publishers you can win your very own copy of this fantastic new book!

A random drawing will be held on Saturday, December 31st, 2011 to determine who the winner is! To enter, make sure you are following this blog [click Follow on the right] and then simply leave a comment below, stating why you would like to win this book, as well as your email for notification. I will announce the lucky winner before Midnight, so be sure to check back often!

You may enter as many times as you like.

Good luck!

****DISCLOSURE: This book was provided by Tyndale Publshing in exchange for an independent and non-biased review.

Lovin' This Christmas Tree!

2011-12-15T09:40:00.000-08:00

Absolutely loving this tree!

From Bookshelf Porn.

Sherman - The Ruthless Victor by Agostino Von Hassell and Ed Breslin

2011-12-10T16:17:00.000-08:00

Sherman - The Ruthless Victor

Agostino Von Hassell and Ed Breslin

Thomas Nelson, Inc.

ISBN 978-1-59555-133-7

This book was a difficult read for me. At my age, I prefer books that are uplifting and inspiring.

I found nothing uplifting or inspiring in the story of William Tecumseh Sherman.

Instead I found a military man who regarded his in-laws as domineering, and wished to make himself aloof to them. At times to the point of alienation. His gruff demeanor would have been a burden on any wife, and yet how his wife perceived him isn't addressed by the writers.

I found him harsh and uncaring. And when reading between the lines, perhaps even endangering to those put under his charge.

I do not care for this book at all, and cannot begin to imagine how this biography made it into The Generals series of books.

I allow this book ...

...one star alone and that is entirely for the photographs included.

I do not recommend this book to anyone under the age of 18, and it should be read solely as a lesson in how a young man should not lead his life.

****Disclosure: This book was provided by Book Sneeze in exchange for an independent and non-bised review.

The Innkeeper - John Piper

2011-12-04T08:58:00.000-08:00

The Innkeeper

by John Piper

Paintings by Glenn Harrington

Published by Crossway, Wheaton, IL

ISBN 978-1-4335-3025-8

Piper brings a visit from the Savior to the Innkeeper of the Inn where He was born.

A touching poem of loss and grief, and how the Lord will bring a sweet reunion to those who believe with their loved ones.

Harrington's paintings are lovely! And they bring life to the story, making it even more endearing.

Not just for the Christmas season, this book would make a wonderful gift of hope for those who have suffered the loss of a loved one, and especially a child.

This book is highly recommended for individual homes and study groups. I would think the reference to Herod's violence may be a bit much for children under ten, but should be fine for those old enough to understand the story of Herod's baby-boy killing.

I give this book...

...Five Stars and...

...my Thumbs Up Award!

****DISCLOSURE: This book was provided by Amazon Vine in exchange for an independent and non-biased review.

Journey To Christmas - A DVD Review

2011-11-27T17:00:00.000-08:00

Journey to Christmas

Five Strangers, The Nativity Is Now Reality

This two-DVD, four-episode program, 180-minutes, unveils five individuals search through the Holy Land for the real Christmas.

A twenty-day journey that takes two men and three women through the mountains and deserts, where they will ride on camels as the Magi did; travel to Bethlehem; visit Qumran where the lost scrolls were written; venture into ancient life at Nazareth; and touch the place of the manger.

You will rejoice with those who find the real meaning and experience what the Nativity really means. As well as feel your heart break when one individual says all he wanted for Christmas was a real experience with God, and not get it.

The video is commentaried by Bible experts Hugh Ross, Paul Maier, Craig Evans, Claire Pfann and Stephen Pfann.

Beautiful cinematography that takes us to the place where our Savior was born; breathing new life into an ancient story of truth and heavenly love.

You won't want to miss this touching adventure!

Published on DVD by Tyndale.

I give this DVD...

...Five Stars and...

...give it my Thumbs Up!

This program is suitable for individuals of all ages, and for group study.

****DISCLOSURE: This DVD was provided by Tyndale Publishing in exchange for an independent, non-biased review.

A Whisper of Peace - Kim Vogel Sawyer

2011-11-26T12:11:00.000-08:00

A Whisper of Peace

Kim Vogel Sawyer

Bethany House Publishers

ISBN 978-0-7642-0785-3

When Clay Selby and his step-sister Vivian travel to the frontier of Alaska to be missionaries to the Athabascan people, one wonders just how they will make it in the rough wilderness.

Clay has a heart for winning the native people to the Lord. Vivian wants to teach.

When Vivian is befriended by an ostracized native girl, their mission almost comes to a screeching halt. But when God has a plan, Man need only hold on for the ride!

This is a must read for good Christian historical novels. It is also a love story, of the very tender and sweet kind.

Be sure to have a hanky on hand. You WILL be touched and warmed through and through by A Whisper of Peace.

I give Sawyer's book...

...Five Stars and...

...my Thumbs Up!

****DISCLOSURE: This book was provided by Bethany Publishers for a non-biased and independent review.

Wishing You A...

2011-11-24T01:00:00.000-08:00

Was Jane Austen Poisoned?

2011-11-17T12:33:00.000-08:00

Portrait of Jane Austen based on one drawn by her sister Cassandra. Courtesy of the University of Texas Libraries, The University of Texas at Austin/Wikimedia Commons.

Jane Austen, the author of classics such as "Pride and Prejudice" and "Sense and Sensibility," may have died of arsenic poisoning, according to a crime writer who has reviewed the last letters of the British novelist.

The crucial clue lies in a line written by Austen a few months before her mysterious death in 1817.
Describing weeks of illness she had recently experienced, Austen wrote: "I am considerably better now and recovering my looks a little, which have been bad enough, black and white and every wrong colour."

According to Lindsay Ashford, a British crime writer, the description matches the symptoms of arsenic poisoning, "which causes skin spotting if taken in small doses over a long time."

"Known as the ‘raindrop’ effect, it causes some patches of skin to go dark brown or black; other areas lose all pigment to go white," Ashford wrote in the Daily Mail.

The crime writer strengthened her theory when she learned that a lock of Austen's hair bought at an auction in 1948 by a now deceased American couple, had tested positive for arsenic.

"The arsenic in Jane’s hair meant that she had ingested the poison in the months before her death," Ashford said.

Austen's untimely end at the age of 41 has long been a cause for speculation among historians.

Her mysterious and fatal illness was first identified as Addison’s disease, a rare disorder of the adrenal glands; other diagnoses included the cancer Hodgkin's disease, the auto-immune disease lupus, Brill- Zinsser disease (a recurrent form of the typhus the novelist had as a child) and disseminated tuberculosis of bovine origin.

"All these conditions display some of the signs Jane reported, but none matches her description of her face in the letter," Ashford said.

She added that it is very likely Austen was given medicines containing arsenic.

Indeed, the poison was widely prescribed at that time for anything from rheumatism –- something the novelist admnitted to have suffered from -- to syphilis.

"There is, of course, another scenario: that she was deliberately poisoned. Improbable perhaps; but not impossible," Ashford said.

The crime writer explores the murder theory in her new novel, "The Mysterious Death of Miss Austen," focusing on Austen's family, which she believes is a source of shadows and doubts despite being thoroughly investigated.

****Read the remainder of this article on Discovery News here.

Comfort Food Fix - Ellie Krieger

2011-11-14T11:45:00.000-08:00

Comfort Food Fix

Ellie Krieger

John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Comfort Food Fix promises to take our favorite comfort foods and remake them into healthier dishes.

I have used some of Krieger's recipes in the past and been well pleased with them. However, this book has been a bit of a disappointment. First, I found few recipes that resembled anything that I call comfort food! [I said few... there are some, however.] These were the more sophisticate of choice, evidently! [Perhaps it's simply my own down to earth choice of comfort foods that makes these seem a bit beyond what I like.]

I also found that while fats were reduced in almost every recipe, sodium seldom took more than a minimal dip, with a few exceptions. However, those exceptions substituted other items that totally remade the dish instead of simply allowing the dish to remain as true to original form as possible. [Give me Diabetic Cooking magazine any day!]

The recipes were "okay" that I tried, and I am sure there will be more that I will yet try, I just do not care for the four I picked at random to sample, and I especially can't call them "comfort food".

The layout was superb in the book, and the photography was excellent.

While I did not like the few recipes I have tried thus far, I still have to give this book...

...Five Stars and...

...a Thumbs Up!

****DISCLOSURE: This book was provided free of charge by Amazon Vine for exchange of a non-biased, independent review.

Honoring Our Heroes

2011-11-11T08:04:00.000-08:00

Woodstock Handmade Houses - Robert Haney, David Ballantine and Jonathan Elliott

2011-11-04T15:07:00.000-07:00

Woodstock Handmade Houses

Robert Haney & David Ballantine with Jonathan Elliott, photographer

Printed 1994 - Korea

Little text mars the brilliant photography of Jonathan Elliott as page after page of idyllic and natural, woodsy, Woodstock-like homes are shown!

From the all natural built of natures bounty and natural materials, to that of recycled items.

Earth, stone, timber, and even canvas are highlighted with interior and exterior shots.

A great coffee-table book. Or one to dream through on a wintry afternoon while curled up next to the fire.

Each page will make you "wish you were there!"

I give this book five stars

and my thumbs up!

DISCLOSURE: This book was a private purchase and under no obligation for review.

All New Slow Cooker - Easy Home Cooking

2011-11-04T14:34:00.000-07:00

All New Slow Cooker

Easy Home Cooking

Publications International LTD

I've been looking for some recipes that would truly taste like the dishes that Grandma used to slave over the old hot cook stove for. This is about the best I've found yet!

Yummy chicken and dumplings, stews made with beef, lamb, meatballs, casseroles, pastas and turkey!

I have already made the chicken and dumplings, and look forward to making every single one of the rest of the recipes in this wonderful 94-page hard-back book.

I got this book for a steal in a local thrift shop for only $1. It's already paid for itself in yummy goodness! And the recipes are super easy, and straightforward. No guessing!

All are made in your convenient slow cooker!

I give this book five stars

and my thumbs up!

****DISCLOSURE: This book was a private purchase and was under no obligation for review.

Night of the Living Dead Christian - Matt Mikalatos

2011-11-04T14:14:00.000-07:00

Night of the Living Dead Christian

Matt Mikalatos

Salt River Publishing

ISBN 978-1-4143-3880-4

What can I say about this book?

I truly did understand the author's analogies of Christians lacking in today's world, and comparing them to zombies, werewolves and vampires.All well and good.

However, unless one delves into the study material at the end of the book, which I fear younger readers will not do, then this is nothing more than a funny, comical Christian oriented book. And I fear the author is merely cashing in on the whole vampire craze of modern teens and young adults in America.

The message he brings is an important one. And if one already knows where to look with the analogies, the book is excellent. But I fear it is those who are reading it, simply as a fictional comedy, who will not benefit.

Therefore, I give this book...

And while I can't give it my thumbs up, neither will I give it a thumbs down. I believe the intent was good.

****Disclosure: This book was provided by Tyndale Publishing free of charge in exchange for an independent and non-biased review.

A Sound Among the Trees - Susan Meissner

2011-10-30T11:32:00.000-07:00

A Sound Among the Trees

Susan Meissner

WaterBrook Multnomah

ISBN 978-0-307-45885-8

Marielle has married a widower with two young children and is moving into the house that he shared with his first wife. Her family's old southern hospitality house located in historic Fredericksburg, Virginia. As if that weren't enough, the dead wife's grandmother still lives within the house; a 90-year old woman full of vim and vinegar!

Marielle thinks she can handle living in the house without difficulty. It was best for the children! That is until she hears about the alleged ghost, and the curse upon the house, Holly Oak.

A wonderful novel mixing today with Civil War era history.

Can Marielle make it work living in the house where her husband once lived with his deceased wife? Are there ghosts lingering the halls and stairways of Holly Oak?

Or is the house really the cursed place Marielle has been hearing about?

This is a novel I simply could not put down, sitting up all night to read it! At times goose bumps, at others reaching for the box of tissues...I give this book...

...Five Stars and...

...my Thumbs Up Award!

Suitable for teens and older, this is a great read!

****DISCLOSURE: This book was provided without charge in exchange for an independent and unbiased review.

A Plain and Fancy Christmas - Cynthia Keller

2011-10-25T18:36:00.000-07:00

A Plain and Fancy Christmas

Cynthia Keller

Ballantine Books - Random House, Inc.

ISBN 978-0-345-52875-9

When two baby girls are born in the same hospital, just two days apart, they are mixed up at the time their mother's were discharged for home. Each girl was raised in the home the other should have been raised in. Their destinies forever altered, each girl named Rachel, lived thirty years unknowing of the situation.

When a death bed confession brings light to the hidden secret of the mix -up, lives are once more altered.

What could have been a devastation forever changes who each woman thinks she really is.

This book brought laughter. And tears.

This was a read you simply did not want to set down!

I give this book a ...

...Five Star rating and ...

...my Thumbs Up Award!

I highly recommend this book for all teens and adults! A great book for a study group as well! Released today... don't miss it!

****DISCLOSURE: This book was provided at no charge from the Amazon Vine program for independent, non-biased review.

It's Probably Nothing - Beach Conger, MD

2011-10-18T12:27:00.000-07:00

IT'S PROBABLY NOTHING - More Adventures of a Vermont Country Doctor

Beach Conger, MD

Chelsea Green Publishing

Published on 30-percent postconsumer recycled paper.

I was enamored with this book! I found it lively and anecdotal.

As a retired nurse I was totally able to relate with Dr. Conger's stories of the amazing country folk of Vermont. [I have many tales of my own which I was able to relate to some of his characters!]

Through his relationship with his patients, to their every quirk and fancy, every ailment, and every imagined one, I felt that Conger made his charcters come to life! I felt by the end of each chapter that I knew the individuals of whom he wrote about! And that is so rare in today's authors.

To my amazement, Conger shares a wit and sense of humor that I was so in-tune with. I laughed and cried throughout the book. Loving every single chapter.

I am happy to give It's Probably Nothing by Beach Conger, MD...

...Five Stars! and...

...my Thumbs Up Award!

***DISCLOSURE: This book was provided by Amazon Vine at no charge, in exchange of a fair and impartial review.

I Was Wrong - Jim Bakker

2011-10-08T17:27:00.000-07:00

I Was Wrong

Jim Bakker

Thomas Nelson Publishing

ISBN 0-7852-7136-8

When Bakker was accused and convicted, back in the day, I was one of a few who actually believed in him. Even though my parents lost thousands of dollars to his PTL program and Heritage USA, where they purchased life-long memberships, to this day they continue to support him.

So, when my parents offered to loan me this book, I was eager to read it. Before cracking it open, I continued to stand behind the man who admitted openly his mistakes.

However, after reading Bakker's "I Was Wrong", I am left with the feeling I used to get when my children [who are all in their late twenties and into their mid-thirties now] used to confess to doing something wrong when they were little, just to tag on at the end a little "...but...." to the confession.

Oh, yes, Bakker admits to his many mistakes, but has to add to each confessive moment a little "but" whereby he actually transfers the blame to another.

Admitting your guilt in my eyes will show me what kind of a man or woman you really are. But dragging someone else into the blame game.... well it only demeans you to me.

Accept your faults, confess your errors, and then move forward. Forgive those who have erred against you, and leave it all in the past.

Unfortunately, coming to terms with your guilt should not include making a fistful of money by dragging names through the mud with your own.

I give this book...

...One Star and...

...my Thumbs Down Award.

Don't waste your money on purchasing this book should you feel compelled to read it. Borrow it from your library. I recommend that you not waste your time in reading it altogether.

****DISCLOSURE: This book was a personal loan and was not under obligation for review.

Christmas In Sugarcreek - by Shelley Shepard Gray

2011-09-24T21:12:00.000-07:00

Christmas in Sugarcreek

Shelley Shepard Gray

an Avon Inspire Book

Oublished by HarperCollins books

ISBN: 978-0-06-2089762

This is a wonderful faith-filled combination of stories taking place in the Amish community of Sugarcreek.

In this wonderful, quaint town we meet Rebecca, Judith and Lilly. Each young girl struggles with new-found responsibilities, as well as their faith, and a new love.

This is the first Amish love story I have read, although I understand they are quite the popular Christian book genre! Rest assured.... this will not be the last!

Rebecca finds a love with a young man running from his past. Judith with a young man that doesn't mind her impoverished state. And Lilly with an older man willing to go against his family, and his way of life, to embrace their life together.

All three find a love to last a lifetime! All in the Amish community of Sugarcreek.

Kind of makes me wish I could travel there to celebrate my own Christmas this year!

I give this book...

...Five Stars and...

...my Thumbs Up Award!

I highly recommend this reading for youth, young adults and adults of all ages. Would make an excellent group study [and there's even group questions in the back!]

****DISCLOSURE: This book was provided as part of the Amazon Vine program in consideration for an independent review of the writer's work.

Elizabeth's Ultimate Sacrifice - Julie A. Bowles

2011-09-21T18:06:00.000-07:00

Elizabeth's Ultimate Sacrifice

Julie A. Bowles

Coppyright 2004 Julie A. Bowles

Published by PublishAmerica, LLLP

ISBN: 1-4137-5065-6

This is the second book by Julie Bowles that I have been privileged to read this week! The first, Her Uncertain Future was reviewed here. And I was immediately enthralled with the young writer!

In Elizabeth's Ultimate Sacrifice we are shown a new character, Elizabeth, who is forced to become a responsible adult at way too young an age! Faced with the loss of both parents, and having to take on the responsibilities of raising her three younger siblings, even to the point of adopting the youngest, in order to keep them all together, Elizabeth must learn the hard way that sometimes being the one in charge comes with making sacrifices.

Through it all, Elizabeth relies upon her faith in God to carry her through. And He does!

Ultimately, in the end, Elizabeth is given all she could have ever dreamed for. And more! The lesson learned is simply this.... what an awesome God we serve! His eye is ever upon us, and He cares for our every need!

My only negative remark regarding this book is that I wish Ms. Bowles had used an editor. While not a true grammar efficionado, I was, at times, tempted to grab my red pen and do a little correcting! But, perhaps if I had, Elizabeth's true story would not have been the one I saw so clearly in this book!

I highly recommend Elizabeth's Ultimate Sacrifice for readers of all ages who enjoy a good romance! This is one that will make you smile, laugh, and maybe shed a tear or two!

I give this book...

...Five Stars and....

...my Thumbs Up Award!

****DISCLOSURE: This book was a private purchase and was not under obligation for review. [It helped that the author's husband is a co-worker and he sang the author's praises before I ever cracked the cover open!]

Her Uncertain Future - Julie Bowles

2011-09-19T17:52:00.000-07:00

Her Uncertain Future

Julie Bowles

PublishAmerica, LLLP

ISBN: 1-4137-3039-6

A refreshingly told tale of a young mother who is widowed and loses a child, while gaining another child, all on the same day. Told from a Christian perspective, Her Uncertain Future brings us to the depths of despair with Martha, and slowly climbs the mountain of recovery through the love, and grace, of God.

Martha is found dealing with life, one day at a time, while learning to be a new mother to her newborn, premature baby, Ethan. As a young widow, her future seems far from certain. But when Michael, and his young daughter, find a way into her heart, suddenly all things become clear.

This book is a well defined lesson in the old Scripture... with God "all things are possible".

I highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys a good love story. But be prepared! This one should come with a warning: "Hanky required!"

I give this book....

...Five Stars and....

..my Thumbs Up Award!

***DISCLOSURE: This book was a private purchase and was not under obligation for review.

Vampire Academy - by Richelle Mead

2011-09-17T13:36:00.000-07:00

Vampire Academy

Richelle Mead

Published by The Penguin Group

ISBN: 978-1-59514-461-4

Vasilisa Dragomir is a mortal vampire and her guardian in training is Rosemarie Hathoway. "Lissa" and "Rose" are quite the combination.

The pair have an unusual psychic bond that pairs them much more closely than most Moroi and their guardians. And while Lissa isn't quite prepared to be the Moroi Princess she is, neither is Rose prepared to be the guardian she will become. Both girls are young, and still learning at the academy.

Torn between the angst of teen years and the responsibilties of adulthood, the girls race through one crisis after another as they reach toward fulfilling their own destinies. And just as with normal teenaged girls, the road is bumpy and pitfalls are strewn along the way.

But the girls do survive. And their bond only grows closer.

While I am not usually found reading books on such, I found Vampire Academy a pleasant read, and I give it...

...Five Stars and...

...my Thumbs Up Award!

I highly recommend this book for teens and older.

****DISCLOSURE: This book was a private purchase and was not a required review.

No He Can't - Kevin McCullough

2011-09-12T08:14:00.000-07:00

No He Can't

How Barack Obama Is Dismantling Hope and Change

Kevin McCullough

Thomas Nelson Publishing

ISBN 978-1-59555-338-6

Syndicated radio talk show host Kevin McCullough tells it like it is.

A fast paced book that brings to light the real President of the United States. His credis. And his short-comings. It also points out his hidden agenda.

President Obama promised "change" when he was campaigning for office. And change is exactly what he has wrought to this Country. But not the kind of change that he promised.

McCullough brings a bit of "clarity" to each agenda item revealed, and a plan that could bring America back to it's roots, and to the foundation upon which it was layed. God.

I give this book

.. Five Stars and highly recommend it!

I also give this book my...

... Thumbs Up Award.

If you want to see Obama in his true light, then you really must get hold of a copy of this book. More importantly, if you would like to see America brought back to her basics of a foundation on our Maker, then get a copy of this book today!

Highly recommended for teens and adults.

****DISCLOSURE: A copy of this book was provided by Thomas Nelson's BookSneeze program at no charge, in exchange for an unbiased written review.

The Betrayal - Jerry B. Jenkins

2011-09-06T13:05:00.000-07:00

The Betrayal

Jerry B. Jenkins

Tyndale House Publishers

ISBN 978-1-4143-3583-4

Advanced Reader Copy - Unedited Edition

Okay, so there's no one on the planet that knows me that is NOT aware that Jerry B. Jenkins is one of my all time writing hero's! I mean, really! Just look what he did with the world reknown Left Behind series!

Well, Jenkins has gone main-stream with The Betrayal, keeping it clean, wholesome and with a Christian influence that is just enough to make the unbeliever a little bit curious. And the believer will be impressed at how the power of God can move man, and save man.

In this modern-day police drama, Jenkins brings to life a new Christian, police detective Boone Drake, just after he has been wounded in a raid.

Drake, affectionately called "Boones", is new to the faith, and has his own inner struggles during his endeavor to catch the bad guys.

In a Chicago twist that will rock the CPD, Drake - with a little help from his friends - brings down the bad guys and saves the day!

One of the best novels from the streets of today! I highly recommend The Betrayal by writer Jerry B. Jenkins to anyone over the age of 13.

I give it a full...

... FIVE STARS! And...

...my Thumbs Up Award!

***DISCLOSURE: This book was provided by Tyndale Publishing for non-biased review.

Before Ever After - by Samantha Sotto

2011-08-28T11:42:00.000-07:00

Before Ever After

Samantha Sotto

Crown Publishing Group, a division of Random House, Inc.

ISBN 978-0-307-71987-4

Reviewed Uncorrected Proof

This is the amazing story of Max, an immortal, and the woman he desires to be his ever-after soul mate, Shelley.

This isn't the usual story that I read... which is why this book is so utterly amazing! I couldn't put it down once I started reading it! Sotto's writing style leaves us with that 'gotta know more' feeling!

Max's story is actually told through the reminiscing of Shelley. Her remembering the things that Max has told her brings his life, his very long life!, into reality for the reader, and Max's grandson, Paolo.

I can't praise this story enough. For the writer to so capture my attention, and my heart!, is simply amazing. This is a feel good love story that you will want to read again and again. And it's one that you can only hope they will find a screen writer who can turn it into a movie. What an awesome flick it would be!

Before Ever After earns...

...Five Stars and...

...my Thumbs Up Award!

I highly recommend this read for anyone with a wish for a feel-good story!

**** DISCLOSURE: This book was sent for private review by the Amazon Vine program.

The Kingdom - by Clive Cussler

2011-08-22T19:29:00.000-07:00

The Kingdom

A Fargo Adventure

Clive Cussler with Grant Blackwood

G.P. Putnam's Sons, publisher

ISBN 978-0-399-15742-4

As always, Cussler leaves us breathtakingly following the adventures of Sam and Remi Fargo as they traipse across continents in search of yet another fortune.

This time, the 'Golden Man'.

The married duo are approached by a wealthy individual who wants them to locate a friend of theirs. In no short order they discover their friend was not missing, but taken and the wealthy man is searching for a relic that is absolutely priceless.

True to form, Sam and Remi use their cunning, wit, and adoration of one another to see them through a series of trials that ends, of course, with them finding their lost friend and obtaining the artifact.

What they find may defy the current norm for belief as to how mankind evolved.

Or is it.... womankind?

Yet another brilliant work from Cussler!

I give this one...

...Five Stars and my...

...Thumbs Up Award!

****DISCLOSURE: This book was a private purchase and I was under no obligation to offer a review as such.

George Washington Carver - by John Perry

2011-08-12T08:35:00.000-07:00

Christian Encounters

George Washington Carver

John Perry

Thomas Nelson

ISBN 978-1-59555-026-2

Yet another biography in the Christian Encounters series which is truly a masterpiece!

Perry brings to life this remarkable Chistian! Born into slavery, and on his death a man whose name was well known in nearly every American household, Carver was a man worthy of being called an American hero!

Articulate and educated, Carver was first and foremost a Christian. An educator who was more at home in the laboratory than the classroom, believing that education came fom practice! And a man who wanted the African-American man to know that he could accomplish anything!

Known for his life-long work with the Tuskogee Institute, and his moniker "the Peanut Man", Carver was also friends with the likes of Booker T. Washington, Thomas Edison, Henry Ford and others. He dined with the elite, including President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

As with all persons of celebrity and notoriety, Carver had his quirks. Perry handled these with great dignity and sensitivity.

A truly gifted writer, I highly recommend John Perry's George Washington Carver.

I rate this book....

...Five Stars and...

...give it my

Thumbs Up! award.

****DISCLOSURE: This book was povided by Thomas Nelson publishing's BookSneeze program, in exchange for a non-biased review of the text.

Manual for Living: Connection

2011-08-05T08:39:00.000-07:00

Manual For Living: A User's Guide to the Meaning of Life - Connection - Book Two

Seth David Chernoff

Spirit Scope Publishing

2011

ISBN-13: 978-19372

It's not often that I find a book or text that I am totally turned off by.... however, this is one of the exceptions.

I found the author's "advice" to be so much rhetoric and "foofraw" that I simply could not get into it!

Not insightful in the least, and appears to be based upon the common knowledge of others!

The sole truth that I found in the book was a quote at the beginning of the Conclusion of the book by Friedrich Nietzche: "There are no facts, only interpretations." And I am certain Chernoff feels he has made astounding interpretations here. And perhaps for some it is so. However, I was bored beyond tears, and found nothing insightful, educational, or entertaining about the book. And those are the three that would have caught me. Any single one of them would have had me hanging on. This, however, lacked any of these ingredients.

I cannot willingly give the writer any stars, however, since I have never NOT given any stars, I will concede to a single star...

...for having good grammar and correctly making the quotes he made at the beginning of each section of the book.

Unfortunately, I do not recommend this book, and advise you not to waste your time borrowing it, or your money buying it!

I give this book...

...my Thumbs Down award.

****DISCLOSURE: This book was sent to me by the publisher as a pre-release for non-biased independent review.

The Kin - Peter Dickinson

2011-08-05T08:12:00.000-07:00

The Kin

Peter Dickinson

Published by Penguin Group

ISBN 0-399-24022-5

A wonderful storyteller, Dickinson brings the dawn of human civilization to life!

A wonderful tale of a small group of talking individuals who survive numerous death-defying encounters, both with natural disaster and with other humans and animals!

It is also a tale of coming-of-age for these youngsters, at a time when they should still have had the freedom of childhood.

Reminscent of the Clan of the Cave Bear series, The Kin brings us details about post-Neanderthal man's life, and the imagination for us to view and feel it as well.

I couldn't put this one down!

I give it...

...five stars! And...

...my Thumbs Up award!

***DISCLOSURE: This book was a private purchase and I was under no obligation to offer review.

The Final Summit by Andy Andrews

2011-07-15T05:44:00.000-07:00

The Final Summit

Andy Andrews

Thomas Nelson Publishing

ISBN 978-0-7852-3120-2

Andrews takes us on a journey with character David Ponder to answer the question, "What does humanity need to do, individually and collectively, to restore itself to the pathway toward successful civilization?"

The character, Ponder, meets such reknown Time Travellers as Winston Churchill, Joan of Arc, Abraham Lincoln, and many others in the quest for the answer.

The truths that Andrews brings to light will cause one to stop and "ponder" ones own pathway through this journey we call Life.

I fully give this book ...

...Five Stars and...

.my Thumbs Up Award!

I highly recommend this book for all readers, teens to adults of all ages!

The guides in the back of the book make it perfect for group study as well! A perfect additon to every home and church library!

***DISCLOSURE: A copy of this book was provided by Thomas Nelson's Book Sneeze review program for independent, non-biased review.

The Homeplace Revisited - by William Leverne Smith

2011-07-10T06:34:00.000-07:00

The Homeplace Revisited

William Leverne Smith

Vision to Action Publishing

ISBN-13: 978-1463504922

ISBN - 10: 1463504926

The second book in the "Homeplace" series, I found the story intriguing. However, in comparison with the first book in the series, "Back to the Homeplace", I found it a bit more difficult to follow.

Smith brings characters to life easily enough, but tends to get more technical in the day-to-day job descriptions each character takes upon himself. Perhaps a little less of the job descriptions and a little more in the character build is called for.

Nonetheless, the story, as I have stated, is intriguing and pulls you along to find out what will happen around each bend and twist of the family's lives.

I did find editing to be lacking somewhat, when compared to his previous work. There were not only spelling, but grammatical errors in places.

And I was not impressed with the abrupt ending to the story, although it does leave one feeling like the old cliff-hanger movies of the '50's once did! You can't wait for the next in the series to come out to find out what will happen within the family Bevins next!

All in all, I give The Homeplace Revisited...

...three stars and...

...my Thumbs Up Award!

I highly recommend reading both Back to the Homeplace and The Homeplace Revisited.

Both books are suitable for readers of all ages.

****DISCLOSURE: A copy of this book was provided by the author for unbiased review.

Futurecast - George Barna

2011-06-28T17:27:00.000-07:00

FUTURECAST

George Barna

Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.

ISBN 978-1-4143-2406-7

A fast-paced, and accurate view of the world as we know it today, and the implications of what today will bring on the morrow, as viewed through the perception of visualizationist, George Barna.

Applying Christian principles, Barna challenges each of us to come to know, embrace, and bring positive changes to the world about us for the glory of God, and the good of mankind.

I found Barna to have good insight and perception of what the world is facing today. I highly recommend FUTURECAST to anyone concerned with what the future may hold for us individually, and as a greater part of the family of man.

I give this book my...

...my Five Star rating and ...

... my Thumbs Up award!

****DISCLOSURE: This book was provided by Tyndale Publishers for independent review at no charge.

The Autobiography of Mrs. Tom Thumb - By Melanie Benjamin

2011-06-13T08:08:00.000-07:00

The Autobiography of Mrs. Tom Thumb

Melanie Benjamin

Random House

ISBN 978-0-385-34415-9

Imagine life, in miniature! Every day, every step, every breath, at only 32-inches of height Vinnie does just that.

At a time when women had little to say, or rather, little rights to say or do what they themselves wished to, Vinnie took matters in to her own diminutive hands, and became a women of means and influence.

Joining a traveling show at only 17, Vinnie learned first hand the cruelty of the world. Later, upon meeting, and joining the troupe of P.T. Barnum, Vinnie became a woman known the world over.

Upon meeting, and eventually marrying Tom Thumb, aka: Charles Stratton, Vinnie was reknown!

But life wasn't always easy. And Vinnie lost much to gain what she did.

This is perhaps one of the most heart-warming stories I have ever read. Told from Vinnie's point of view, as through an autobiography, Melanie Benjamin does an extraordinary job in this tale!

I give this book....

... Five Stars and....

...my Thumbs Up award!

I highly recommend

The Autobiographyof Mrs. Tom Thumb

by Melanie Benjamin.

****DISCLOSURE: This book was provided by the Amazon Vine program for independent review.

Money Secrets of the Amish - Lorilee Craker

2011-06-07T09:53:00.000-07:00

Money Secrets of the Amish - Finding True Abundance in Simplicity, Sharing, and Saving

Lorilee Craker

Thomas Nelson Publishing

ISBN 978-1-59555-341-6

Wonderfully, and descriptively, written book imparts many of the wisdoms of the Plain people, the Amish.

Intended to guide us into a simpler way of financial freedom, without the harsh environ of a materialistic, and too ready for credit, world. Craker, instead, steers us into re-thinking what is truly important in today's society. Living up to the "Jones's", or getting back to the basics of what real family life is all about.

Having grown up amidst neighbors of the Mennonite community, I found this extremely heartening and well worth the read. The tips and clues on how to save money as an "Englisher" just made plain common sense!

I highly recommend this read for anyone looking for ways to cut corners financially, and finally see what freedom without debt can actually be like!

I give this book...

...Five Stars and...

... my Thumbs Up award!

DISCOLSURE: This book was provided by Thomas Nelson Publishing through its BookSneeze review program for an independent review of the written work.

The Pillars of the Earth - Ken Follett

2011-06-02T09:07:00.000-07:00

The Pillars of the Earth

Ken Follett

Penguin Books

ISBN: 978-0-451-23281-6

An extraordinary masterpiece of the 12th century and the building of a mighty cathedral, and of the families involved in the treacherous and torturous times of upheaval.

Love and loss, life and death are visited and re-visited. Betrayal, as well as faithfulness are seen time and again.

Made into a television mini-series, the epic cannot compare to the actual book!

Paramount to any of the classics, this is a tale worth reading, and re-reading again!

I give this book...

...five stars, and...

...my thumbs up award!

Highly recommended for readers over the age of 17.

DISCLSURE: This book was a private purchase and was under no obligtionfor review.

Happy Memorial Day!

2011-05-30T01:00:00.000-07:00

Ravenous - Dayna Macy

2011-05-26T08:25:00.000-07:00

Ravenous

Dayna Macy

Hay House, Inc.

ISBN 978-1-4019-2691-5

Macy takes us on a wonderful journey regarding her fight to control her inner cravings with food.

Delightful and easy to read, she also adds one of her cherished recipes at the end of each chapter.

It isn't an easy journey Macy goes through, but the emotional transformation seems well worth the trip! I found myself nodding "Yes, I know eactly how that feels!' on more than one occasion as she stumbles, falls, and picks herself up throughout her discoveries!

I definitely give this book...

... FiveStars, and...

...my Thumbs Up Award!

****DISCLOSURE: This book was provided by Amazon Vine Program in exchange for a non-biased review. All comments as listed above are my own.

Scars of a Chef - Rick Tramonto

2011-05-22T07:06:00.000-07:00

Scars of a Chef

Rick Tramonto

Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. - 2011

ISBN 978-1-4143-3162-1

This wonderfully frank, and inspiring story by world reknown chef, Rick Tramonto, bring us the story of his rise, and fall, and rise again among the culinary talented of the world.

Tramonto brings us from the fall, to the rise, of one who finally learns to let go and let God have His way in his life.

Tramonto bears the scars of one who has emotionally and physically born the battle of good against evil, and now wears the crown of a victor!

I give this book...

...five stars and my....

...thumbs up award!

I highly recommend this for your literary and home library!

****DISCLOSURE: This book was provided by Tyndale for review.

Hungry Girl 300 Under 300 - Lisa Lillien

2011-05-17T08:14:00.000-07:00

Hungry Girl 300 Under 300

Lisa Lillien

St. Martin's Griffin

ISBN 978-0-312-67681-0

Consider this book my "next to the Bible" go-to-for-cooking", do-it-all for my kitchen book!

Or to put it simpler.... my new BFF!!!

Three hundred recipes under 300 calories for breakfast, lunch and dinner!

You got that right, girlfriend! All of 'em under three-hundred-calories!!!

And I'm not talking pasty, cardboard wanna-be recipes! I'm talking scrumptious, easy and quick to fix recipes that you're gonna use time and time again!

I was a bit skeptical when I first saw this book on the shelf in my local Walmart. My eldest son had just given me a little money for Mother's Day, and dontcha know I was eager to spend it, but wanted to spend it wisely, when I saw this little treat there!

Well, it's the best Mother's Day present I think I've ever gotten!

I've already made more than a dozen of these scrump-dilly-icious recipes, and I can't stop coming back for more of 'em!!!

The only drawback I found is that HG tends to use processed foods for cutting corners. To make the recipes with less processed and less sodium, I found that you can simply substitute with fresh ingredients and come up with an even healthier meal!!! The basics are there and can't be denied... these are the best recipes all around!

If you're like I am, and trying to fight the battle of the bulge.... then this book is for you!

I give this one....

....five stars and my.....

...thumbs up award!

****DISCLOSURE: This book was a private purchase and I was under no obligation to offer review on it.

Cemetery Dance - Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child

2011-05-17T07:45:00.000-07:00

Cemetery Dance

Douglas Preston & Lincoln Child

Grand Central Publishing

ISBN 978-0-446-58029-8

Homicide Detective D'Agosta and FBI Agent Pendergast delve deep into the world of voodou and obeah, to the realm of the zombii in search of a killer, or killers, on the loose in upper Manhattan. A world where animal, and perhaps human, sacrifice, are well known.

Or is what appears to be reality, the real truth?

The twists and turns of fantasy and imagination keep this novel hopping from one foot to th other as you try to outguess the pro's in what will happen next!

Even the most die-hard of "who-dunnit" fans will find this one hard to solve!

I give this book...

...five stars and my...

...thumbs up award!

Not suitable for children under the age of 13.

***DISCLOSURE: This book was a private purchase and I was uder no obligation to review it.

The Mark of the Angel - Nancy Huston

2011-05-10T11:51:00.000-07:00

The Mark of the Angel

Nancy Huston

Copright - 1999

Thomas T. Beeler, Publisher

ISBN: 1-57490-244-X

A wonderfully told tale of a young German immigrant to France. A woman locked in her own torment from a Nazi past.

And of a young French man who discovers a love for this woman, and determines to bring her to love and passion.

And, of a young Hungarian Jew, who does reach this lost soul. Teaches her what love truly is. And releases her from the bonds of her tormented past. In his love, and in his arms.

A romantic tragedy that will touch you to the core, I highly recommend this read taking place in the late 1950's and early 1960's of France and it's tumultuous upheaval.

I give The Mark of the Angel ..

... Five Stars and...

...my Thumbs Up! award!

***Disclosure: This book was provided through a book exchange for review.

My Dear I Wanted To Tell You - by Louisa Young

2011-05-09T19:54:00.000-07:00

My Dear I Wanted To Tell You

Louisa Young

Harper Collins Publishers

ISBN: 978-0-06-199714-3

This was one of those books I simply could not put down once beginning!

A lovely story of a young man overcoming the odds of poverty and ignorance in pre-WWI England. True love. Romance. And the feeling of losing that love, only to face an adversity that most would have shriveled and died from.

It is also the view of the young woman who loves this boy, turned gentleman, turned soldier, and her unswerving faith and love in him.

What a great story! I highly recommend this novel to anyone who believes that true love will, in fact, find a way!

I give this book...

...FIVE STARS!

And...

...my Thumbs Up Award!

****DISCLOSURE:This book was provided for review through the Amazon Vine program.

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-08T01:00:00.000-07:00

He's Alive!

2011-04-24T01:00:00.000-07:00

The History of the Greenbrier America's Resort

2011-04-17T14:04:00.000-07:00

The History of The Greenbrier America's Resort

Robert S. Conte

Published for The Greenbrier by Pictoral Histories Publishing Company, Inc.

Charleston, WV

ISBN: 0-929521-14-5

This beautifully photographed, well researched, and often entertaining book, by historian for The Greenbrier, Robert S. Conte, is insightful and well written.

From the first days of the mineral/sulphur springs in the 1700's to it's present, The Greenbrier has been one of America's premier resorts, and this well put-together book offers us a beautiful look at that history.

I originally utilized this text as part of my research for a family who shares the same name as one of the original owners of the resort. Later I went back to re-read the text purely for the entertainment and the love of the history of it.

Fascinated by The Greenbrier, my ex-father-in-law having worked there for many years, I travel past it's illustrious gates daily on my commute to work. Gaily decorated in the Christmas season, and always, always, well populated. The comings and goings are often highlighted by occasional glimpses of society's elite and those individuals of fame. One is also well used to seeing the various uniforms of those who serve the guests both in front of, and behind, the scenes.

The History of the Greenbrier America's Resort is a must read for anyone interested in the local history of Greenbrier County, West Virginia as well! One can easily see the progression of the community and the state through the progression and growth of The Greenbrier.

The iconic resort is well presented by Dr. Conte in this book.

I give this a ...

....five star rating and my....

...thumbs up award!

****DISCLOSURE: This book was a personal purchase for private research, and I was under no obligation to offer my opinion on it.

Losing It

2011-04-11T11:23:00.000-07:00

Losing It - And Gaining My Life Back One Pound At A Time

Valerie Bertinelli

2008

Free Press

ISBN-13: 978-1-4165-6818-6

Fantastic story of one young woman's rise to stardom, but of also losing faith and self-confidence.

Heartache of a marriage failed.

But the confidence and love of a son that helped to pull her through the toughest of times.

Bertinelli, just a few months younger than myself, married at an early age. She and her spouse did basically the same as my own story of young marriage... they grew up and apart. Each defining their own goals for life, and finding that although there was strong feelings for one another, it wasn't enough.

To fill a void, Bertinelli turned to food for comfort and solace.

This is a journey about finding an alternative to fill the void. To finding one's self. And loving one's self, and one's self-image.

Bertinelli gives us her journey in a candid, no holds barred, manner.

And she tells us what has worked for her.

I give this book...

...five stars and my...

...thumbs up award!

DISCLOSURE: This book was borrowed, and was under no obligation for review.

The Philosopher's Apprentice

2011-04-02T13:54:00.000-07:00

The Philosopher's Apprentice

A Novel

James Morrow

Copyright James Morrow 2008

HarperCollins books

ISBN 978-0-06-135144-0

Morrow started out well enough, with a fantasy read that lead us down a path of DNA and genome make believe, where an individual is cloned rather than chosing a reproductive path in order to experience motherhood.

We ended up in sci-fi nightmare!

I could almost believe the beginning of the story, told convincingly and with at least a modicum of heart. However, I soon began to lose interest when the absurdly ridiculous became the apparent course of the novels journey!

It isn't often when I am unable to find it within myself to give an author a modicum of interest to the very end of the tome, but in The Philosopher's Apprentice I have struggled for 10 days to finish that which I have finally given up on.

I find the book totally unrealistic and without governing morals.

Since I found it in the 99-cents store, I suppose I should have known what to expect.

I rate this ...

...one star, simply because it did have a great, plausible beginning. But I have to give it....

...a thumbs down, and suggest you keep the kiddies away from it!

****DISCLOSURE: This book was a private purchase and was under no obligation for review.

A Conversation With God

2011-03-21T06:10:00.000-07:00

A Conversation with God for Women

by Marcia Ford

ISBN 978-0-7852-3179-0

Thomas Nelson Publishing

It's not very often I give a negative review. But in this case... I'm willing to make an exception.

I expected thought provoking, perhaps sentimental even. What I got was the same old, same old.

Mostly I was reminded of the weak-minded who often cry out "Why me, God???" when bad things happen.

I for one could not recommend this book to anyone even seriously contemplating purchase. Instead, simply pick up your Bible. The answers are much clearer, concise and to the point than this rhetoric.

I give this one a thumbs down.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2011-03-17T05:51:00.001-07:00

Grenville & The Lost Colony of Roanoke

2011-03-05T20:52:00.000-08:00

Grenville & The Lost Colony of Roanoke

The First English Colony of America

by Andrew Thomas Powell - 2011

Matador

ISBN 978 1848765 962

Powell leads us through the maze of written documents surrounding the forming and sending of the group of individuals, men and women, who were the first English colony on Roanoke Island, off the coast of North Carolina.

Through transcribed letters and diaries we are taken into the minds of the men who jurneyed to America and carried the colonists, their supplies, and their dreams.

While Sir Richard Grenville does indeed take a significant place in the happenings, he only played a small part.

The beginning text gives a bit of a biography on Grenville, allowing us a rare insight into the man. Then we are lead through the maze of documents Powell pored over, allowing us to come to some of our own conclusions before finally Powell leads us through his own thoughts on what happened to the Lost Colony.

I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in the Lost Colony and research of it, as well as anyone interested in the early foundation years of colonization by England in America. It is a fascinating look that is well worth the read.

I give this book ...

...five stars, and...

...my thumbs up award!

***DISCLOSURE: This book was a private purchase for my own home library. No obligation for review was made.

The Crazed Bookshelf

2011-02-23T07:51:00.001-08:00

Gotta love this short video I found on YouTube!

http://youtu.be/cFnuP9niRUg

Curiosities of the Civil War - by Webb Garrison

2011-02-21T18:27:00.000-08:00

Curiosities of the Civil War

Webb Garrison

Thomas Nelson Publishing

2011

ISBN: 978-1-59555-359-1

549pp

I have always held a fascination with the Civil War, so when I was offered the chance to review this book, I simply jumped at it! And I wasn't disappointed!

Garrison feeds us tidbits, facts, and fun stories of the Civil War as if they were bon bons to be enjoyed and savored!

At first glance, I thought to myself, I will have to read this one fact at a time and set it aside or I will soon be overwhelmed with facts and figures! However, Garrison leads us through a myriad tunnel of information, much as though we were walking through a fine art gallery, allowing us to stop and view each work and allow it to stand on its own merit before we procede further.

The front cover states "Strange Stories, Infamous Characters, & Bizarre Events". It doesn't disappoint!

If you're not into history, or the Civil War, you might want to skip over this one. But if you are... then you'll probably devour it as greedily as I did!

I give this one...

...five stars and...

... my thumbs up award!

****DISCLOSURE: This book was offered free for review from BookSneeze, a division of Thomas Nelson Publishing.

The Raw LIfe

2011-02-15T09:20:00.000-08:00

The Raw Life

Becoming Natural in an Unnatural World

Paul Nison

2000

343 Publishing Company

ISBN 0-967528-0-7

First off, let me begin with, I opened this book with no pre-conceived ideas of the Raw Diet. I was mildly intrigued, having read several blogs by individuals who were gradually immersing their dietary lifestyle into this phenom.

That said, I found the book utterly worthless.

The drivel which flows from Mr. Nison is of such utter nonsense that I am surprised anyone would even contemplate his lifestyle!

His premise that an individual can go raw was one which I might have pursued. It certainly intrigued me. However, his utter disregard for medical science astounds me!

Mr. Nison lumps medicine into that category of malpractice of the mind! He states such nonsense as going to see a doctor is inviting one self to get sick.

"All doctors and medicine are designed to make you sick."

While I can somewhat agree with the doctor who is in a general practice, in that they are trained to treat the symptom rather than the cause, that is not true of a homeopath.

Then, nutrition is basically set aside, as individuals are enlightened about "mono" fats and fruits and vegetables.

And the one that really set my teeth on edge???

Emaciated and skeletal are all part of the plan! Nison even shows photographs of individuals who could easily appear as poster mascots for the holocaust!

I certainly cannot add my endorsement to this book in any way!

However, let me say this... the raw diet as I had perceived it, was one that would provide the individual with all necessary nutrients, yet in a raw, natural form. That being said, I am willing to seek out more information on that lifestyle.

I simply will not be following the advice of Mr. Nison.

My advice?

Don't waste your time, or your money, on this book.

****DISCLAIMER: This book was purchased for my personal library.

Heidi

2011-02-13T13:43:00.001-08:00

Heidi

Johanna Spyri

the Helen B Dole translation

ISBN 0-448-17339-5

Call it a desire to revisit an old friend, but when I came across this copy of Heidi by Johanna Spyri I simply had to purchase it.

You see, Heidi was the first full-length novel I ever read as a youth. Heidi was a little girl, of my own age, at the time I read it, and I was enamored with her adventures on the Alm with her grandfather, The Alm-Uncle.

In Heidi we find a child who has been dealt a hard life, but who with the grace of God, learns to make something good out of even the worst situation. She touches each individual who comes into her life, blessing and enriching their lives as no other could.

In this edition of Heidi, we are given a brief biography of the author at the end of the book.

Born 1827 at Hirzel, Switzerland the author was named Johanna after her father, Dr. Johann Jacob Heusser, and was nicknamed Hanni. Her mother was a poet.

Well versed in education, and well-travelled, she eventually married a schoolmate of her brother's, Bernhard Spyri, in 1852 when she was 25.

Hanni, it is said, wrote the very first of her stories to entertain the wounded soldiers of the War of 1870. Heidi was the very first of her longer stories, and was first published in 1880. Outliving both her husband, and only son, Hanni spent a great deal of time with a little niece, it is said she wrote many of her stories to please the child.

Hanni died in 1901 at the age of 74.

Diet-Free For Life

2011-02-06T14:37:00.000-08:00

[Image Unavailable At Time of Posting]

DIET-FREE FOR LIFE

ROBERT FERGUSON

2011

A Perigree Book

Penguin Group

ISBN 978-0-399-53636-6

I have been a long-time follower of Robert Ferguson, and have successfully lost over 100 pounds using his highly acclaimed Food Lover's Fat Loss system.

This work is not only a great recount of that plan, but also enhances what he originally put into it!

There are a ton of recipes for those who are new to follow his ideas, as well as great exercise routines that are designed for every level of a person's activity capability.

Bringing to life what this country truly needs, Robert Ferguson gives America a sense of responsibility for one's own physical condition and obesity. However, he kindly hands them the key to living forever diet-free in a manner that is so simplistic that anyone can follow it.

There are no complicated formulas to follow. There are NO DIET RESTRICTIONS! Yes, you truly can have your pizza and chocolate and soda! The key is in moderation and increased activity!

Pure common sense if you are open to common sense!

No miracle pill or plan is disclosed. However, followers of Robert Ferguson are well aware of the vast success his plan has brought, and are quick to inform you that his plan does indeed work!

I give this book my five star rating, and my thumbs up award!

****DISCLOSURE: This book was a private purchase for my personal library and is under no obligation to perform this review.

Fasting...

2011-02-05T09:28:00.000-08:00

FASTING

Scot McKnight

from

The Ancient Practices Series

Thomas Nelson

2009

ISBN 978-0-8499-0108-9

This is an insightful look into the ancient Christian act of fasting, and its implications on Christians today.

McKnight remains objective in the many reasons for use of the fast, including for health, religion and spirit. I found this book a delight to read, and was very thought provoking.

In the closing statements of the text, McKnight leaves us with this statement which, to me, was the "be all and know all" of the book:

"...instead, we will fast because we will sense God's response to the very conditions around us, and it will leads us to join in the good work of God. I suspect that we will discover that joining God is all we really wanted anyway."

Profoundness in simplicity.

I give this book

....four stars and....

... my thumbs up award!

****DISCLOSURE: This book was provided by BOOK SNEEZE in exchange for an honest review of the work.

Traditional Knitting...

2011-02-02T08:03:00.000-08:00

Traditional Knitting

Patterns of Ireland, Scotland and England

Gwyn Morgan

1981

St. Martin's Press

ISBN 0-312-81314-7

This is a beautifully written, researched and photographed book!

Wonderful old patterns from Ireland, Scotland and England are shown. Not only are the patterns written in easy to understand style, but the origins of the patterns are given as well.

This will become a treasured addition to any knitter's library!

I give this book

...five stars and...

... my thumbs up award!

****Disclosure: This book was purchased for my private library and independently reviewed.

The Sugar Solution Cookbook

2011-02-02T07:49:00.000-08:00

Prevention's

The Sugar Solution Cookbook

Ann Fittante, MS, RD

with

Julia Van Tine-Reichardt

2006

Rodale Inc.

ISBN 13 978-1-59486-272-4

I have had this cookbook on my wish list for a long time, when suddenly it was gifted to me!!! I was ecstatic to get it!

I was thrilled to get to try out many of the recipes, and find how truly delicious it can be to rid one's body of the artificiality of processed sugar! Having gone that route several years ago, I had just about used up all of my recipes and was eager to find new ones. I was not disappointed!

Fittante guides us through living a life free of processed sugar, and gives us over 200 recipes to assist with a sugarless lifestyle, or for the diabetic.

The meals are superb! Your family will thoroughly enjoy these delicious dishes, and they are ones that you will be thrilled to serve to guests as well!

I did however find a flaw with every recipe I have tried so far [I've tried 14 of them to date]. Fittante lists all of the nutritional information with each prepared dish. However, when I compared the nutritional values she lists, with those on other well-known nutrition websites, it seems Fittante may have under estimated every value she has listed! From calories, to carbs, to fats, to protein, and mostly to sodium! On each of the recipes I reviewed, I copied the recipe and purchased the ingredients directly from the ingredients listed, followed the recipe meticulously, and then put in the recipe and ingredients and came out with higher values.

While this won't stop me from using the recipes, it will cause me to use other sources for the nutritional values.

Still, I do recommend this book.

I rate it three stars.

***Disclosure: This book was a gift and is independently reviewed.

The New Face of Small Town America

2011-01-30T11:11:00.000-08:00

The New Face of Small-Town America

Snapshots of Latino Life in Allentown, Pennsylvania

Edgar Sandoval

The Pennsylvania State University Press

2010

ISBN: 978-0-271-03674-8

ANSI Z39.48-1992

I was prepared to read the usual hype regarding a "minority" group in this country.

Instead, Sandoval pleasantly surprises you with the heartfelt and heartwarming stories of a variety if individuals.

These are not the "poor me", American-hating individuals that we hear so much about. Instead, these are stories filled with hope, pride, and enthusiasm for life! Individuals who just want to "be"!

I highly recommend this book, which gives us a snapshot of the Latino life in Allentown, and in many communities around this country! It introduces us to the new generation of immigrants. One we should welcome with warmth!

I give this book my...

....five star rating and...

...my thumbs up award!

***Disclosure: This book was provided free of charge from the Early Reviewer program of Library Thing., in exchange of a review.

The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo

2011-01-27T07:07:00.000-08:00

The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo

by Stieg Larsson

Vintage Books

2008

ISBN 978-0-307-47347-9

This was a difficult read for me. I simply could not get into the characters.Yet, there has been such hullaballoo regarding this book, and received such wonderful reviews everywhere I turned, that I thought I would simply do it injustice if I did not allow myself to read it thoroughly. And so it sat in my bathroom. And yes... I read it only when going to the loo.

And yes. I began this book well before the holidays. And yes... I did indeed read a page or two each time I went into the WC.

But I could not get into it.

The story began with a journalist who was going to have to do prison time for libel. And then there was cross referencing of a twenty-something punk girl who was more trouble than she was worth!

It wasn't until last week, when I'd finally reached the mid-point of the book that suddenly I began spending more time in the john than normal! And by yesterday... well, I simply had to finish the last few chapters stretched out across my bed in a frenzy read to see what would happen next!

Let's just say that the journalist did NOT commit libel. And this unlikely duo teams up to foil the man who caused so much grief.

In the middle of all of this is a murder mystery, that is so twisted and contorted that you'll think your own head is turned around backwards by the time you find out the truth!

This is a book I will revisit at a later date, and read through in just a few sittings. Yes... it's that good!

My suggestion? If you find yourself bogged down at the beginning, read through it quickly. By the middle of the book, you will be hooked!!!

No... I have not seen the movie yet. But I am not sure that I want to. Often times I am quite disappointed after reading a book when viewing a movie of the same because it seldoms lives up to the book. However, I'll consider it.

I give The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo...

...five stars and...

...my thumbs up award!

Disclosure: This book was purchased by Texicanwife for private review.

Back After The New Year!

2010-12-27T06:42:00.001-08:00

We are taking a holiday and will return after the New Year!

Texas The Beautiful Cookbook

2010-12-15T13:08:00.000-08:00

Texas The Beautiful Cookbook

Edited by Elizabeth Germaine

Portland House

ISBN 0-517-69220-1

This delightful cookbook is probably one of my most favorite now!

I absolutely adore Texas cooking. Especially south-Texas. That delightful comfort food that is mixed with a bit of Mexican flair!

There is a plethora of delicious home cooking recipes that are sure to please every pallette! Hundreds of recipes from a small intimate dinner for two, to a real Texas ranch-style gathering!

Wild game and fish are included!

Desserts suitable for any holiday are sure to make your mouth water!

This book is beautiful enough to place on the coffee table, as well! The photography is simply stunning! And that was my original intent when purchasing this Goodwill find! [I found it at the Covington, Virginia Goodwill for only $1!]

I highly recommend this great find!

Jungle Warfare - A Basic Field Manual for Christians in Sales

2010-12-11T07:33:00.000-08:00

Jungle Warfarre

A Basic Field Manual for

Christians in Sales

Christopher A. Cunningham

Published by: Thomas Nelson

ISBN 978-1-59555-147-4

I was prepared to find nothing good about this book. After all I am not a salesperson.

I was prepared to find the jungle warfare analogy boring. After all, I am not a soldier.

I was prepared to dislike the book. After all, I had never even heard of the author before.

I wasn't prepared to

[a] find that we are all salepersons!

[b] find that I am a warrior at heart!

[c] find a brother in Christ in the author!

Each day we find ourselves facing the enemy. And this book gives us some straight forward ways of meeting the enemy, facing him head on, and being fully prepared to meet the battle!

This book lays out a simple plan of being prepared so that we are so committed to our Savior that there is no way we can possibly fail!

There is one paragraph that stands out above all others to me, that Cunningham brings to light:

"The fear of the Lord is the reverent knowledge that God is holy. When you realize this sacred truth, you will do anything you can to make sure that your actions, your business plans, and your life all reflect this insight. You will find that you "fear" being outside of God's presence and approval. We must desire to be in Christ when we make decisions so God doesn't have to call our motives into account. God has an exciting plan! So commune with God, obey His simple directions, and commit your plans to Him. Then your plans will succeed."

This simple truth is true no matter what you are attempting to face! Be that as a salesperson, a college or high school student. a housewife, a business executive, a mother, a father, whatever!

Cunningham's plans are distinctive and unique in that they separate us from the plans of the world. Bringing us always to the center of God's Will.

I give this book my five star rating...

...and my thumbs up award!

I highly recommend Jungle Warfare for every home library, and believe it is essential to high school seniors and those in college especially! What a wonderful gift for a young person just starting out in life as an adult!

****DISCLOSURE: A copy of this book was provided by Thomas Nelson's BookSneeze program in exchange for review.

The Way of Duty - A Woman and Her Family in Revolutionary America

2010-12-08T13:58:00.000-08:00

The Way of Duty

A Woman and Her Family In

Revolutionary America

Joy Day Buel and Richard Buel, Jr.

W.W.Norton & Company, Inc.

ISBN 0-393-31210-0

The remarkable accounting of Mary Fish from birth to death.

The Buel's accurate description of 18th Century life, and of the telling of this rare woman's life are exceptional, to say the least!

This was a thoroughly enjoyable read.

Mary Fish takes us from 1736, her birth, to 1818 and her death.

The rarity of finding so much information to confirm the life of a woman in America from this era is truly remarkable! And the Buel's tell it with rare form!

From the death of children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, to that of three spouses, Mary Fish Silliman Noyes Dickinson's life is one that drew strength from her faith in God, and her belief in this great land.

Truly an inspiration, I give this work a five star rating...

...and my thumbs up award!

I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in biographical studies of the 18th century.

DISCLOSURE: This book was a private purchase.

Well-Being for Dummies - Elizabeth Kiball [Editor]

2010-12-07T07:55:00.000-08:00

Well-Being for Dummies

Elizabeth Kiball [editor]

Wiley Publishing

ISBN: 978-0-470-63896-5

I found Well-Being for Dummies to be a smart, intelligent book, written simply, so as to be well understood by the masses.

This 68-page guide is set up nearly exactly as all of the other "for Dummies" series of books.

There are 4 chapters, with a variety of sub-headings under each. Those chapters are:

Chapter 1: Physical Well-Being: USe It or Lose It

Chapter 2: Mental Well-Being: Keeping Your Wits About You

Chapter 3: Financial Well-Being: Successfully Navigating the Waters

Chapter 4: Social Well-Being: Staying Connected

I found this a short, delight to read. And was quite informative for those preparing for retirement.

I highly recommend this book. It can be obtained free at the Real For Me website or for less than a dollar on Amazon.

All in all I give this book my five star rating

...and my thumbs up award for excellence.

****DISCLOSURE: I received a copy of this book free of charge by registering at the Real For Me website. Registration is open to the public.

Let Every Heart Prepare Him Room

2010-11-28T12:00:00.000-08:00

Let Every Heart Prepare Him Room

Nancy Guthrie

Tyndale House Publishers

ISBN: 978-1-4143-3909-2

Let Every Heart Prepare Him Room takes you on an Advent adventure leading up to the celebration of Christmas. This adventure prepares you, and your family, for celebrating the birth of our Savior by making room for Him in your hearts and in the celebrations of the season.

A different reading/ devotional for each of the days through the season is provided with heart-warming themes that are certain to bring your hearts and families home for the holidays.

A must read for every Christian home, and certainly a must for every Christmas, I heartily encourage you to purchase this book for your own home, and to consider it for gift-giving this season!

I give this wonderful book my Five Star rating ...

... and give it my Thumbs Up award!

****DISCLOSURE: A copy of this book was provided by Tyndale Publishers for review.

Only Milo

2010-11-24T11:42:00.000-08:00

Only Milo

Barry Smith

Inkwater Press

ISBN 978-1-59299-423-6

Milo wrote a few manuscripts years ago and put them, stacked neatly, in his closet.

At an age when most men are retiring and settling down to a sedate life, Milo's life takes on a new aspect.

Milo becomes a writer.

And he commits the ultimate act in revenge.

Barry Smith is a superb author. I couldn't begin to put the book down and read the entire thing in a single sitting.

Smith writes in a "William Shatner-ish speak" manner. Short, staccato bursts that flavor and enhance for a delicious tale of murder, and more murder!

Serious, but satirical at the same time, Only Milo will have you laughing at moments, and gasping in shock and awe the next!

I give this book five stars...

...and my Thumbs Up Award!

Only Milo was the most fun I've had in a long time, and I highly recommend it.

DISCLOSURE: This book was purchased following a recommendation for review. Well worth the cost!!!

Awakening

2010-11-23T13:59:00.000-08:00

Awakening

Claudia Cangilla McAdam

Imagio Catholic Fiction

Sophia Institute Press

ISBN 978-1-933184-61-6

Ronnie's Mom is a deeply faithful Catholic mother, raising her daughter alone, following a family tragedy.

Ronnie doesn't understand what all the hullabaloo is about for the upcoming Easter traditions.

But Ronnie is soon to find out.

Awakening in Jerusalem in time to literally witness the last days of Christ, Ronnie isn't sure if she's a 21st Century teen transported back to this historical event, or a Jewish teen delusional about having come from a future place and time!

What Ronnie does know is that she must do everything in her power to stop the senseless killing of the Master.

Witness the last days of Christ as never told before. Through the eyes of a young girl who already knows what the outcome will be.

This eye-opening story is a must for every Christian household. It should be an essential read for every teen.

I found McAdam's writing easy to read, and she has a style that puts you right into the story. You are there!

I give this book five stars...

... and my thumbs up award!

****DISCLOSURE: A copy of this book was provided by Sophia Institute Press for review.

Yarnplay at Home - Handknits for colorful living

2010-11-20T11:01:00.000-08:00

Yarnplay at Home -

HANDKNITS for colorful living

Lisa Shobhana Mason

North Light Books

ISBN 978-1-60061-005-9

Another great book for the knitters library by Mason!

Again, Mason outdoes nearly every other knitting book of patterns with her wit, easy style, and colorful choices. Her encouragement for the average knitter is just phenomenal, constantly encouraging the knitter [accomplished as well as novice] to push themselves just one step farther and add to the design element.

I simply love the designs in this book, and find myself longing for more yarns so that I can make so many of these!

Twenty-four designs are included in the three categories of: cloths and cozies; bed, bath and baby; and house and home.

Mason includes guides for the novice, and ideas for the acccomplished.

I love Mason's style, and will certainly purchase any new books she may come out with!

I give Yarnplay at Home a five star rating

... and my thumbs up award!

****DISCLOSURE: This book was a private purchase for my own home library.

Yarnplay

2010-11-18T08:43:00.000-08:00

Yarnplay

Lisa Shobhana Mason

North Light Books

Mason puts together a work that is exciting, fresh and contemporary.

A wonderful work bringing us twenty new projects for the home, wearing and gift-giving.

Included are helps for yarns, needles and hooks as well as designing hints and tips.

I was particularly impressed with the way the artist attempts to draw the reader into adding their own design elements and ideas to each pattern included, allowing the awakening and budding artist in all to reach out and be seen!

I found the patterns precise and easy to follow. Well thought out and with no extraordinary talents or skills required beyond basic knowledge in knitting there is something for everyone in this collection.

I highly recommend this book for the knitter's library.

I give it my five star rating

and my thumbs up award!

***DISCLOSURE: This book was a purchase for my home library.

Email Account Hijacked!!!

2010-11-17T06:43:00.001-08:00

Please note:

My personal email account has been hijacked and until further notice any emails received by me are fraudlent! Do NOT OPEN!!!

The Mullah's Storm

2010-11-16T13:25:00.000-08:00

The Mullah's Storn

Thomas W. Young

G.P.Putnam's Sons

ISBN 978-0-399-15692-2

First I have a confession to make... I am NOT a big fan of military action novels, nor their counterpart in movies. I just don't fantasize about carrying a rugged pack and slinging an M-16 over my shoulder and traipsing through some mountainous dessert terrain or sloshing through a jungle where the enemy lies waiting for my demise at his hands!

But from the very moment I read the description for The Mullah's Storm, I knew I had to read it! Thomas Young is an Air National Guard veteran and knows that of which he writes first hand.

I was gripped by this novel from the word go! When Air Force navigator Michael Parsons and Army interpretor Sgt. Gold are shot down from the skies they are the only two of their mission to survive. Except for a prisoner. A very special prisoner.

Young takes us through terrain we have never seen before, but which we now feel we know like the back of our hand. He leads on a mission that puts us right there in the field with him.

Young's military and technical knowledge are fully apparent in his writing. Yet he doesn't overwhelm the ignorant with so much technical jargon that we become lost and unable to follow. Instead, we feel the terror that grips Parsons and Gold. We feel the mental anguish. We feel the elements as they battle for survival in a brutal land against an even more brutal enemy. We smell the gunpowder, lead, and blood.

There are so few writers today who can transport you into the world of their story. It takes a special talent to do that. Young is just such a talent.

I highly recommend The Mullah's Storm.

I give this book...

...my five star rating and...

...my Thumbs Up award!

****Disclosure: Putnam provided me with a copy of this novel through Library Thing's Early Reviewer program for review.

On This Day In Christian History

2010-11-13T11:29:00.000-08:00

On This Day in Christian History

Robert J. Morgan

Thomas Nelson

ISBN 978-0-7852-3189-9

Morgan brings a delight to each calendar day of the year!

Refreshing and insightful short stories of heroes and heroines of Christianity. Most of long, long ago, but there are a few modern heroes thrown in as well.

I especially delighted in stories of John Wesley, Charles Spurgeon and John Wycliffe, to name but a few.

This book is an excellent companion for daily Bible study, home schoolers, family devitionals, and is appropriate for discussion around the dinner table and for all ages. A must for every home library!

I give this book my five star award

as well as...

... my thumbs up award!

***Disclosure: Thomas Nelson provided a copy of this book through their BookSneeze program in exchange for a review.

Juliet

2010-11-07T17:51:00.000-08:00

Juliet

by Anne Fortier

2010

Ballantine Books

ISBN 978-0-345-51610-7

This is a well-thought-out book that combines the tragic love story of Shakespeare and the historical drama mixed with fact of Dan Brown and the likes of The Da Vinci Code.

Julie (Guilietta) is descended from the Tolemei family of Siena. Little does she know just how much!

Follow her escape from death through the streets of Siena and through a maze of historical legacy that will make you wonder if curses and love eternal can be real!

Anne Fortier is a master-storyteller, and I am anxious for her to write again!

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and give it my five star rating

and my thumbs up award!

***Disclosure: This book was a purchase found on Half.com, an excellent source for discount priced reading materials.

Almost Heaven

2010-10-31T13:41:00.000-07:00

Almost Heaven

Chris Fabry

2010

Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.

ISBN +78-1-4143-1957-5

There are books that we enjoy. And books that we read for fun. For pleasure. For information. For inspiration.

And then... there are books destined to change our lives. Books that reach deep down inside of us and change our very core. That touch our heart. That touch our soul. And we are never the same.

Such can easily be said about Almost Heaven.

First, just setting the story in my home state touched a chord in me. So few books are set accurately in the Mountain State! They often portray our simple country people as stupid and ignorant.

But Billy Allman is an exception! Fabry's character is a simple man. A simple man who loves the Lord with all his heart and soul!

Billy Allman could have been my neighbor. Or the man across town. Fabry is so in tune with the people of this state that I could easily put faces with each of his characters!

Billy's story moves from the terrors of his childhood through his struggles as a young man. Heartache and grief like none other, and yet like everyone we have ever known. Fabry gives us a peek into this very special, yet ordinary life, and how it touched those around him.

Billy gives his all to the Lord. Not in money, which he never had, but with his heart and soul. He loves people and offers himself up time and time again.

Is it any wonder that I picked this book up and couldn't put it down until I had finished it?

Almost Heaven gives us a unique insight into the role of the guardian angel as well. Malachi, the warrior angel, is sent to be guardian over Billy. During the one time he is ordered away from his charge, a tragic occurrence happens that forever changes the young boy, Billy.

You'll laugh through the humor found in this book. And you'll cry. Alot. [Keep a box of tissues close by!]

But most important of all, you will find messages of the love of our Lord and Saviour interspersed throughout the entire book. Always giving us hope. Reminding us that no matter what it is, God can forgive and put the past behind us. Always shedding the light of His love for us upon us.

I can give this book nothing less than five stars

and my thumbs up award.

I highly recommend this book for every household, and find it suitable for teens and older.

****DISCLOSURE: I received this book from Tyndale House Publishers for review.