Miss Lynn's Books & More

Kitchen Addiction by Lizz Lund

2012-01-26T07:40:00.000-06:00

KitchenAddiction

Lizz Lund
Create Space
October 2011
General Fiction/Comedy
5 stars

Enter theworld of Mina Kitchen and spend one hilarious week with her. More happens in aweek then most people have happen in six months... In her forties, office manager at EEJIT, single,owns a cat, a bird and her own apartment and loves to cook, if she gets thechance... Only problem she is never alone. Seems her neighbor Vito is always ather house, cooking up some concoction that would make most people run for coverand addicted to her Swiffer while he manages to hook Mina into taking hislaundry to the cleaners and pick up what is there.

Seems someonehas been going around slinging bags of flaming Doggie Doo and burning down thenew Buy-A-Lots that are being promotedthrough the sales divisions at EEJIT. Only now it’s starting to get personal.They try to burn down EEJIT’s ,thrown a bag at Vito’s apartment and Mina keeps gettingknocked out. Now can they find the culprit?Eventually losing her job now Mina has to find other means as she has all thehelp in the world from the cast of characters

There is somuch to this book that it would be impossible to write about everything thatgoes on throughout the week in her life. The book is full of what one would consider light comedy, word puns, cat’s,dogs and cooking and the characters are amazing. From Vito who is in the witness protection plan, to Norman her work buddy whoreally is rich and doesn’t need to work to her mother and aunt that is forevertrying to let’s say blackmail her into painting her apartment and her pregnantsister. Amid illegal prescription drug sales to being guarded by her former cohortsfrom work, life is one hilarious ride for Mina. This book was a real pleasureto read and more than once my husband wanted to know what was so funny when Iwas reading. One word of warning! I would not suggest trying the recipes in thebook. I have just touched a little bitof what the book is about. I would recommend this book for all who like acomedy that will help break the gloominess of a day.

Secret Sisters Volume by Sandra Byrd

2012-01-23T07:25:00.002-06:00

SecretSisters (Volume Three)

Sandra Byrd
KindleEdition
ChristianFiction
Ages Girls 8-12
5 Stars

As with allthe re issued edition each volume is comprised of two books in the seriescutting the e books down to 6 from the original 12 paper backs. Mainly thebooks are geared towards girls but an occasional boy may just take a chance onthem. Each book is filled with fun, family, friends and most of all a Christianattitude. The chapters are short as not to get boring as a young girl reads.

As with thefirst two volumes we find Tess having decisions to make and finding troublealong the way.

Book 4Double Dare Tess is upset as herbirthday is coming up and she wassuppose to have a sleep over with several girls, but they have all canceled even down o her secret sister Erin.But her mother and father had a better idea for her birthday that wouldprobably be a lot more fun—bowling! Andyes it was a surprise fun. As Tess gets over her birthday she has come up withan idea. She is going to enter gymnastics. Everybody else is so good ateverything but Tess is --- well just Tess. What is she good at? She soon learnsthough if she gets on the team she has to give up a lot. Horseback riding withErin is one thing but the disappointment she see’s in her father’s eyes becauseshe is too tired to hike leaves her wondering which should she give up .As she prayswill she make the right decision?

Book 5 WarPaint it is once again decision time for Tess. Every 4 years the 6^thgraders get to paint a mural on the cafeteria wall. As teams are picked atvoted on from each 6th grad class. Erin and Tess and picked two other friendsto go in with them. This year is different. They are also going to pick and Mr.and Miss Coronado and Tess was one of those chosen to be elected. If she wouldwin she couldn’t be on the painting team. We also have the Coronado Club thathas been nothing but a headache for Tess and Erin this whole year even to thepoint of threatening them to let them win. What kind of decision is Tess goingto make this time?

I really amenjoying this series and keeping up with Tess. Even though things seem toreally go haywire for her in the end she always seems to make the rightdecision. The only problem she has right now is trying to make her family seehow important Church is to them as a family but not really is a pest about it.As I have stated before in the other reviews, This is an excellent book for younggirls and should be included in their reading library either as an E book or inthe paper back volumes

Aurelia's Machic by John Bolen

2012-01-21T17:03:00.000-06:00

Aurelia’sMagic

John Bolen
Create Space
November2011
Youth-YoungAdult Fictional Fantasy
5 Stars

Aurelia’sMagic is the story of a young girl who at 14 years old would dearly love to beolder or at least be treated more like an adult. On the day of her grandfather’sfuneral she spy’s a man in some of the most outrageous clothes dancing a jig onher grandfather’s grave. Approaching him a conversation soon gets out of handas he explains to her his name is Seavus; he is a fairy and can grant wishes.Her grandfather had seen him before and his wish was granted but he would nottell what it was. Now Aurelia wants a wish granted, to go for 14 to 21. As theyears speed along and after more wishes Aurelia is now an old woman, withgrandchildren and great grandchildren. And who should appear again like he doesevery so many years-Seavus -only now he tells her he can do no magic. It’s allin her mind he says. With Seavus fallingin love with Aurelia did he lose his power or is he just telling her that? Asyour read let your imagination flow and see what you think.

This is ashort book that did not take long to read at all. Originally a play in 2003under the title “Dancing on the Grave” it was re released by the Youth Playsunder the name Aurelia’s Magic. I think all tweens/teens will enjoy this especiallythe girls. Reading the book I could picture in my mind Seavus in his getupdancing the jig. He reminded me by the description of a leprechaun. When I reached the ending it left me wonderingas I wrote above could he do magic or was it a farce. A very enjoyable read.

15 Simple Steps To Losing Your Salvation by Rick Schworer

2012-01-21T07:34:00.000-06:00

15 SimpleSteps to Losing Your Salvation

RickSchworer
DaystarPublishing
December 4,2011
ChristianLiving
5 Stars

I have toadmit that when I first seen the title of this book I was a little wary. Have leanedall my life about once saved always saved I thought how can I lose mysalvation. Then I read the description of the book and found relief in knowingthat no I can’t lose my d

Salvation. Manytoday though have questions about their own life. Are they saved? Why didn’t Iget that fuzzy warm all over feeling like others say they did? Why can I notremember what when on when I was saved? Whether you had a warm feeling or just felt a little different or that aweight seem to be lifted off or if you believed on the name of Jesus and askedGod for forgiveness and to save you,then you have become a child of God. Once saved there is no one that can’tpluck you out of the Fathers hand. If you were to lose your salvation thatwould make God out to be a liar and we know that will never happen. With plentyof scripture to backup the authors point of once saved always saved, mostpeople take that as I can go and do what I want to with no worries. NOthat does not meanthat you can and do whatever you want to do and still find favor in Gods eyes. No you will not lose not your salvation butyou will lose, the joy, the peace, rewards health and could also shorten yourlife.

15 Simple Steps to Losing Your Salvation is great book for thosewho have been taught this false doctrine for many years or for those whowitness to those who have been taught that you can. As Rick explains that thereare those who claim to be saved but have never actually experienced the joy of God’slove or salvation. Plenty have head knowledge but not heart knowledge and atthe end He will say “depart from me I never knew you” You can’t lose somethingyou never had.

I feel all Christians should read this book, some will agree and otherswho have had it ingrained into their mind will disagree, but we all have toremember God is not the author of confusion. If he wrote it in His word, then it’strue and no one can change what it says. If we could lose our salvation thenJesus’ death on the cross was all in vain and I found that this is what theauthor has pointed to throughout the book. I would recommend this book alongwith Rick Schworer’ other book “Roadmap Through Revelation”

Ater The Cross by Mike Lynch ;Brandon Barr

2012-01-20T06:25:00.000-06:00

After TheCross

Mike Lynch; Brandon Barr
EllechorPublishing House LLC
June 1 2011
Historical Fiction;Christian Fiction
5 Stars

After The Crossis one of those novels that are hard to put down once you start reading. Anovel that is full of greed, deceit, murder and jealousy along with politicalambitions.

Synopsis:

The novel follows an archeologicalteam as they are excavating the sight of the old Constantinople Library in Istanbul,Turkey. When thieves are killed as they tried to smuggle out a box they discoversomething that is about to change the lives of many- a map to the crucifixioncross. Does the cross still exist? Wherehas it been for the past 2000 years? When the financer of the project heardabout this he wanted the search for the cross stopped while others wanted to continue.As a team is compiled to check the manuscript to make sure it’s genuine, thereare those who have been paid to prove it false. Now the real story begins.

The main characters of the book, Colton Foster who at one time wasfluent in Latin, Hebrew and Greek but had his reputation tarnished whenoutwitted by an antique dealer and Mallory Windom one beautiful woman usually gets what she isgoing after no matter who she has to crossor cheat. With danger all around them, they lose part of the team when mercenariesblow up the building they are using for their exploration. Now Colton and Malloryare on the run trying to find the cross and remain safe at the same time. Willthey find the location of the cross? Will Mallory finally admit to who she isworking for and leave Colton stranded on his own or will her feelings for him changeher whole outlook.

I really enjoyed the historical part of the novel along with the present.The characters are very easy to become connected with and the actual book makesyou feel as if you are over there with them searching. When you start readingyou will soon find your own faith growing stronger. There was one passage inthe book that really stood out to me through the whole time they were searching.When an old priest told them “the cross is nothing but wood, what matters isthe blood that was on that wood”. If you are looking for a book to read thathas a lot of action and intrigue along with a suspenseful nature that is cleanlywritten then grab a copy of After the Cross. I have just given you a littletaste of what this novel is about. It delivers one powerful message along withthe suspense. Recommended

Discovering Your Spiritual Center by David Teems

2012-01-17T08:27:00.000-06:00

DiscoveringYour Spiritual Center

The Power ofPsalm 119
David Teems
LeafwoodPublishers
Christian Living
5 Stars

How many timeswe as Christian has lost our way, lost the desire to pray or if we do it is lackadaisicalwith little interest or spirit involved? We have drifted away and sometimes it is veryhard to get back to the center of our spiritual self. How many times have youfelt as if God was absent from you? Really God has gone nowhere; we ourselveshave lost that desire, the burning fuel we once had. When the author foundhimself in just such a position he discovered an answer to his dilemma: Psalm119. The longest chapter in the Bible, with twenty two sections in alphabetic order.

The rules aresimple to follow. Find someplace quiet, no TV’s, computers, and read 8 verses aday out loud. It does not matter if you put emphasis on a certain word or if youread it in a monotone voice .Do not stop to think or consider just say the words.Listening to yourself as you speak has as much impact on what you have heard aswhat you have read. If you feel like praying afterwards then pray but the mainthing is the reading. Read them several times a day if you feel like it but tonot go on to the next verses till the next day. This will total 22 days ofreading.

I found thisbook to be very powerful and also seen myself in some of the situations. Notonly am I going to do this for myself but also get my women’s small group involvedin this reading challenge. I feel like even though one has a good prayer lifeor has a great spiritual life there is still times we need to just get to thebasics and read verses like these. As we read the Psalm they are actually prayingto God. I would highly recommend this little book to everyone no matter whattheir spiritual life is like. When one gets off the main course they needsomething to get them back on track. Pick up this book and read it and follow therules and you will find it surprisingly helpful

Disclosureof Material Connection: I received this book free from ACU Press/LeadwoodPublishers as part of their ACU Press Book club Program.I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressedare my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal TradeCommission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements andTestimonials in Advertising.

Computer Down

2012-01-16T14:11:00.003-06:00

Well my new computer of 4 moths has done bit the dust, Talking with support this morning seems a bad hard drive was put in so they are sending me a new hard drive. I have a couple of more revies to put up but I have very little in the way of programs on my laptop so I will just wait till I get the hard drive and reload all my programs back on my desktop. Sometimes I wonder if these electronics are worth it ;-).
Everybody have a great day

Purple Knot by Raquel Byrnes

2012-01-15T14:23:00.001-06:00

Purple Knot(Shade of Hope Book 1)

RaquelByrnes
White RosePublishing
ChristianSuspense
5 Stars

Well thereis nothing like reading a series backwards. After reading Ruby Dawn book 2 in theseries I cannot tell you which one is the best. They are both an exciting and suspensefuledge of your seat thriller from the first page to the very last.

Reyna Cruz wasborn on the wrong side of the tracks or as one would say in Seattle on thewrong side of the bay. Taunted in school she made friends with Summer and hertwin brother Jimmy who now takes on being her protector. Years later Reynaloses everything, the baby she is carrying, Jimmy and her faith in the GodJimmy believes in. Getting her private investigators license she moves to SanDiego and opens her own agency. Everything seems to be going good and she isdoing quite well for herself that is until Jimmy calls her. Summer is incritical condition at the hospital and of course her husband is to blame. He has been known to beat her but this timeit’s gone too far. As Reyna flies to Seattle little does she know what can ofworms she is about to open and what she is going to get mixed up in. Arrivingat the hospital Reyna found out quick that the fate of Summers life and that ofher unborn baby lay in her hands. With Summer being near death how can shechoose what to do?

As Reyna triesto put her PI skills to use, she soon realizes that someone is out to get ridof her. As the intrigue increases and the suspense mounts we follow Jimmy andReyna through a terror filled ride involving drugs, kidnappings attempted murdersand a rekindling of their love. Will they eventually get to the bottom of this mystery?Can Reyna finally learn to trust God as before and let Him help her instead oftrying to do this on her own?

This is awonderful read that I found very hard to put down till I reached the end. Ithas just the right amount of romance in it as not make it overbearing and takeaway from the rest of the plot. Even though Reyna and Jimmy still have feelingsfor each other there are plenty of spats happening in the relationship also. Ireally like the characters of Reyna and Jimmy but would have like to sit Jimmy’smother down and gave her a tongue lashing. It was not till the exciting ending that we finally found out who killedSummer. With all the characters I had in mind as the killer, I found out I wasvery wrong. This review just touches alittle bit of what the book is about so if you like a good cleanly written romanticsuspense novel that is Christian Based, I recommend reading Purple Knot.

I receivedthis complimentary review copy from White Rose Publishing. The opinionsexpressed here are my thoughts of the book

The House On Prospect by Bernadette Walsh

2012-01-13T08:17:00.001-06:00

The House On Prospect

Bernadette Walsh
Echelon Press
Release Date-January 15, 2012
Women’s Fiction
5 Stars

The House On Prospect is one amazing story. I startedreading it in the evening and finished it in one sitting. It is a story dealingwith life its self, a story of greed, family secrets, abuse, infidelity andhappiness with a touch of romance. A story of 4 generations of a family thatdealt with all of the above and kept it hidden.

When Rose is diagnosed with cancer and just has a few monthsat the most to live, her daughter Ellen returns home. Ellen spent her childhoodliving in the house on Prospect, a house by the sea, a yard full of flowers anda house full of secrets. Raised more by her grandmother then her mother, shenever knew who her father was. As Ellen and other family members take turnsstaying with her at the hospital, squabbles erupt, memories return of thingspast and Ellen feels as her mother is a stranger to her. As she goes throughold letters and photographs her mother and grandmother has kept she finds apicture and eventually learns the truth on a few things. Rose who was studyingto become a nun had to return home. When she became pregnant with Ellen shenever told the father. Now Ellen wonders did she want me or was I a hindrance?Will the truth eventually be revealed to all or will it forever remain a secretand taken to the grave with Rose.

This was an amazing story; there is the occasional coarselanguage in the book but not enough to detract from the story. The characterswere very well presented and each played a part in the plot. Reading thisreally made me feel like I was watching a soap opera. It is a very good bookthat one could see happening in any family today’s society. I feel like hiswould make a good movie made for TV.

Bernadette Walsh

Secret Sisters-Vol 2 by Sandra Byrd

2012-01-13T07:31:00.004-06:00

SecretSisters-Volume Two

Sandra Byrd
E- BookEdition
ChristianFiction
Ages 8-12
5 Stars
Available on Amazon

Book 3 ofthe Secret Sisters Series-“Star Light” has Tess and Erin facing both facing problems.Erin’s favorite horse that she rides at her grandparents is sick and they donot know if he will live. Solomon is old and has lived a great life for a horsebut it still is upsetting to Erin. When Tess’s mother passes out and the seemsto get worse she finally goes to the doctor to find out what is wrong. Now Tessis worried she has cancer like her grandfather and won’t live. It’s hard on 12 year olds to face thepossibility of death of someone they love. Between school field trips, Tess starting toattend church regular and a surprise test result, Tess’s faith is tested. As anew Christian what she discovers may just help her in more ways than one.

Book 4 –AccidentalAngel we find Christmas approaching and we find Tess trying to earn money forseveral different reason. The main one being morning to go to horse riding campwith Erin. She has been babysitting but she needs more to be able to buy giftsalso and send five dollars to the Christmas Angel program... When two otherfriends from school talk Erin and Tess into getting a booth at the craft fair,plans are made and the day before the fair trouble arises. First off Booth onewhich was to be theirs was taken over by her so called best friend (from Vol 1)and their craft they made could not be used because someone else already hadthe craft to sell. When all else fails one needs to turn to God and all things will work out wonderful as Tessand Erin soon finds out, except for one thing- They have their first spat. Willthey remain as Secret Sisters? Who should apologize Tess or Erin? And as alwaystrouble seems to find Tess especially in her donation. Will she honor hermistake?

I so enjoyreading these book as there is such a lesson for young girls to learn. Herethey learn the true meaning of Christmas. Not only is Tess leaning more about God she is now trying to get her parents involvedin going to Church and what better time than Christmas for them to start. At theend of each book there is an activity that was found in the story for girls todo. These are great books for young girls to read and also adults.

Ruby Dawn by Raquel Byrnes

2012-01-12T07:05:00.000-06:00

Ruby Dawn(Book 2 Shades of hope Series)

RaquelByrnes
White rosePublishing
ChristianSuspense
Release Date-January 2012
E-BookEdition
5 Stars

Ruby Dawn startsout with a bang and keeps on going all the way to the end. Ruby (Dawn) McKinney,abandoned at eight years old in a bus station lay unconscious for two days inthe hospital ICU ward. Waking up of no recollection of who she was, where shecame from, she spent her young life in fosters homes then a detention center.That is where she met her protector and first love Tom Masters. When Tom leaves the detention center not onlydoes Ruby D lose the love of her life, her faith in God also diminishes. Ruby Dis still roaming the streets but in a different way, running a medical clinicin the worst part of town, the slum district, taking care of runaways, streetpeople and those with no money.

Whiledelivering coats to some homeless men, Ruby comes across a shooting victim inthe dark alley. As a nurse she knows he is close to death. That is when shediscovers that it is Tom and his life has changed. He is now on the right side ofthe law and working undercover for the DEA. Now to get him to the hospitalwithout letting on whom he is. The sting operation that he is working on notonly concerns the gangs in the area but also Ruby’s clinic. Now Ruby does not only have to put up with Tomback in her life, But a local police officer who would like nothing better tobe more than friends with Ruby and a gang leader who is trying to infiltratehis gang to working in the clinic. What occurs next is utter chaos in Ruby’slife. Someone is framing Ruby in her drug orders, but whom? How much can she takebefore she eventually turns back to God?

This bookwas very hard to put down right from the very beginning. With a great cast ofcharacters there were many that I thought was a suspect trying to sabotage Ruby’sclinic and name. I was surprised at the ending of who the leak really was. The only part that I had a little troublewith was towards the end. When she rescues Tom for a change instead of himrescuing her reminded me more of a movie ending that was not quite believable,but then I know God works in mysterious way. Do not let this part deter you though as it is a excellent read.you are looking for a suspense fillbook with a touch of romance that is Christian based then you will not want tomiss this book. Even though it is in a series the book is a standalone-Recommended

I receivedthis complimentary review copy from the publisher. The opinions expressed hereare my own views of the novel.

The Fat Chick Works Out by Jeanette Lynn DePatie

2012-01-10T08:32:00.000-06:00

TheFat Chick Works Out!

(Fitness that's Fun and Feasible forFolks of all Ages, Sizes, Shapes and Abilities
Jeanette Lynn DePatie
Non Fiction-Fitness-Workouts
Real Big Publishing
5 Stars

So you think you fat? Diets don’t seemto work, exercise just makes me sore so what’s the use? Counting Calories forwhat, lose 10 pounds and put in back on in a couple of weeks? Well in the wordsof the author:

“Well then friend, it's time to come and work out with ME! Becausehoney, The Fat Chick knows how to have fun while she's working up asweat!"

Some people are naturally born to look like a bean pole all their lifeand others to look like a barrel but that is their genetic makeup and there isnot much one can do about it. No amount of dieting and exercise can take offthe weight, just as those that are predisposed to be skinny all their life can never put on weight.Now if you are one that is overweight and you have tried all the so called faddiets and exercised to the point of exhaustion and pain and nothing has work,pick up this book and read it. But if you are looking for a fast way to getskinny and think this book will do that,put it back on the shelf. This book is going to teach you how to go aboutfitness in 12 lessons and as you write it down in a journal you will be able tosee your progress. So you can only walkto the corner and back. Do these 3 times a week. The second week you may makeit to that corner turn and go to the other corner. You have walked around ahalf a block and making progress.

As I read this book I realized you do not have to be fat to dothese exercises. Anyone can do them. Even skinny people do not get the exercisethey need to as they grow older, myself included. It’s easier to sit on thecouch, watch movies and eat popcorn or sit in front of the computer. I feel everyone should give this book a chanceit will give you a better outlook on life and get you out of the Yoyo dieting andaway from all them fitness shows that promise you a beautiful body. If it workedwe would all look like they do on TV.

Note: You will love the pictures of the little yellow chickthroughout the book. It just sets the stage to keep on reading.

Matties Meltaways by Mary Manners

2012-01-10T06:16:00.002-06:00

Mattie’sMeltaways {Book 4 Sweet Treats Bakery Series}

Mary Manners
White RosePublishing
SweetRomance/Christian
5 Stars

Mattie Spencerowner of Sweet treats Bakery, along with her three younger sister’s work hardto try and make it a thriving business. When Mattie took on the job of raising her younger sisters she let loveand marriage pass her by. As she watches her sisters grow up, get married andnow with families of their own is she content on just being an aunt? Tyler Jacobsis raising his 7 year old daughter by himself after he lost his wife Tessa 3years earlier in childbirth. A local firefighter, he drops in the bakery every morningfor his coffee, a morning chat with Mattie and her newest sweet treat, mintmeltaways. As feelings between the two look like they are turning to romance thereis one thing that will place a gulf between them that will be hard to cross. Even thoughMattie loves Jacob’s daughter Jessie, she wants children of her own. At 35 yearsof age is she to old to go through childbirth? Can Jacob let go of the fear and death of his wifeand son or will he let Mattie slip through his fingers? Will he let go and letGod handle the situation? What part does Jessie play in this romance?

This was thefirst book I have read in the Sweet Treats Series but I fell in love with thestory. As I looked the others up I see wherethese can be read as a standalone even though you will meet some of the samecharacters. This was such a heartwarming story that shows us the main thing weneed is faith and that everything is in His hands and He knows the outcome. This is a great afternoon read that I wouldrecommend for everyone.

This reviewcopy was provided to me by White Rose Publishing for my honest opinion. Nocompensation was received for the review of this book.

Mary Manners

White Rose Publishing

Secret Sisters Volume 1- by Sandra Byrd

2012-01-09T11:01:00.001-06:00

SecretSisters-Volume 0ne

Sandra Byrd
E- BookEdition
ChristianFiction
Ages 8-12
5 Stars
Available on Kindle and Nook

Originallypublished in paperback the Secret Sisters series consisted of twelve books. Re-Issuedin an E -Book format, the books have been combined to have 2 fully completebooks in each volume therefore cutting it down to 6 volumes.

In the firstbook of the series Heart to Heart we meet Tess Thomas who felt like a totalreject in the 5th grade. New town, new school, no friends until she meetsColleen who becomes her best friend. Or so she thinks. 6^th Grade, andColleen and Tess are in separate class rooms. This is when she finds out justhow much of a best friend she really is. When Colleen starts a new club up shewants Tess to join but when she finds out what she has to do to become a memberand what it will cost to keep her friendship will Tess go along with it or backout. Besides she has met a new friend Erin and they soon become Secret Sister.

Book two ofthe series Twenty One Ponies Tess has this problem. She is an expert at gettinginto trouble and this time it could be a disaster. When Tess is invited to go tothe harvest party at Erin’s church, Tess borrows her mother’s diamond earringswithout asking permission. Now these just are not any earrings, these were theearrings she wore when she got married. When Tess loses them she now has tofigure out a way to get them back or buy new ones but in the end confession turnsout to be the best thing to do. As Tess learns more about God and how heforgives she is also forgiven by her mother. Will the earrings be found and willTess in turn learn how to pray and to follow God.

I just fellin love with the other series and I knew that The Secret Sister Series would bejust as great. Young girls will learn a great lesson as they read. Lessons onfaith, friendship, family and friends and the cost of doing things that shouldnot be done. Each chapter is short s to not make the book seem to drag on and withan adventure in each chapter to keep it interesting. This is a must for allyoung girls library.

The Search Committee by Tim Owens

2012-01-09T06:22:00.004-06:00

The SearchCommittee

Tim Owens
TyndalePublishing
ChristianFiction
January 2012
5 Stars

When I startedreading The Search Committee I found this book impossible to put down. Sometimesthe best things we have in life are right under our own noses and we are tooblind to recognize them. Usually when a pastor leaves a church to take aposition at another church, they have an interim pastor and a search committeewho starts looking for a full time pastor. This is a novel of one such committee.

Sevenmembers, seven different personalities, seven individuals each with their ownset of problems or a past. Four women andthree men, set out in the church van each weekend to different churches aroundtheir areas to listen to the different preachers and checkout the membership intheir church, how he fares with the congregation, the music, attendance etc. Iguess you could compare this with ajury, four will want to hire him, and three will be against. As they squabble andbicker along the dusty back roads, each think back to their own problems intheir life and it is soon revealed. A lot of the emotions that are displayed onthese journeys are just a front to keep from showing their true emotions. Asthey seek a shepherd for their church, some need to seek the shepherd for theirself. And it takes one Sunday for them to realize that they had found the rightpastor after all.

This bookhas a hilarious side to it along with the serious side. I could not help buttell half the people in church about this book and many related back to me daysthat they were on search committees and acted the same way as the characters inthis novel. One thing I liked about it also was some of the sermons portrayed inthe book. Just from reading the interim pastors sermon, I feel like I got agreat lesson. I recommend this book for everyone to read, especially those thatare on or plan to be on a search committee.

I received thiscomplimentary copy from Tyndale publishing. A positive review was not requiredand the opinions expressed here are my own views of the book.

Promise Me Eternity by Ian Fox

2012-01-07T08:26:00.001-06:00

Promise MeEternity

Ian Fox
KindleEdition
Mystery; Suspense;Thriller
5 Stars
Available at Amazon and Smashwords

Promise MeEternity is one of those novels that I found hard to put down. Not only is itfilled with suspense, but greed, jealousy, affairs and murder. They say thatthe love of money is the root of all evil and that is surely portrayed to thefullest in this book. With a cast ofmany characters one will have to start to think when they are reading and watchfor clues.

Dr. SimonPatterson is a well known and respected neurosurgeon in Oregon. Although he hasbeen married for 15 years they have no children. In all actuality he is marriedto his work, not the surgery but trying to develop an anti aging vaccine, whichin turn takes time away from his wife. His wife on the other hand is a money hungrywoman that wants the best of everything, clothes, cars vacations and more. WhenSimon saves the life of a Carlo Vucci a known gangster little does he know howis life is about to change. Accepting a dinner invitation Carlo offers him acheck for Fifty Thousand dollars. When Simon turns it down, his wife hits thepanic button and Carlo’s wonders, No one has ever turned down his money.

Now theproblems begin, Simon’s wife is going out, acting strange, Carlo’s wife ismaking a play for Simon and his associate is trying to take over his job and that’sjust the beginning of his nightmare. His wife is murdered and all clues pointto Simon. When Carlo’s wife Christine says she will help prove his innocenceand say that he was with her, there was only one problem, her husband. WhenCarlo ends up dead after a fight with Simon, Christine confidently changes hermind about Simon. Can Simon prove he is innocent? Were they out to kill Helen Simon’swife or did they make a mistake? As the neighbors confide will they be thestraw that helps Simon get free or be condemned?

There aremore twists and turns in this novel that will keep you wondering throughout.There are quite a few different characters and the chapters may be about onecharacter and then change to someone else. At times unless I kept my mind on whomI was reading about at the time I would lose track and would back track to seewhich one I was reading about. All in all this is a great mystery with plentyof suspense which leaves one wondering just how the story is going to end.Recommended for those who like a strong suspenseful mystery with occasionalhints at sexual activity but nothing heavily sensual or erotic and no coarselanguage.

I receivedthis complementary copy from the author. A positive review was not required andall opinions expresses her on my ownviews of the novel.

Life On The Edge by Jennifer Comeaux

2012-01-04T08:11:00.001-06:00

Life on the Edge

Jennifer Comeaux
Astraea Press
January 3^rd, 2012
Fictional Romance
5 Stars

Life on the Edge follows thelives and tours of the many skaters who dream of one day of bringing home the GoldMedal in the Olympics. Nineteen year old Emily has always skated alone and nowshe has to learn to skate with a partner. With Chris as her partner, they dreambig and with Sergei a Russian coach , they are sure to win big in the Olympics.As a former champion Sergei is hiding something. Why did he suddenly leave hiscareer and come to the United States to teach skating? One of the no-no’s inany sporting event is for coaches and students to have any interaction witheach other except for their training sessions. As sparks begin to fly betweenSergei and Emily, they know full well that they cannot be seen together or haveany romance between them. As they continue on being discreet will this affectEmily’s skating performance? As things seem to heat up more between them,trouble lurks just around the corner. Can she confide in her parents that sheis seeing Sergei? What about the Russian skaters, do they realize what is goingon? How long can she keep this from her partner Chris? But most of all will therebe a future for Emily and Sergei together both in the skating and romancedepartment?

This was a very interesting noveland for anyone that follows the world of Ice Skating knows just how strenuoustraining can be to reach perfection. Ifeel the author did a great job of describing the twists and turns that goesalong with a performance. If you are looking for a good contemporary romance toread then I would recommend “Life on the Edge” I feel like you will enjoy itvery much.

Dead Is The New Black by Christine DeMaio-Rice

2011-12-31T12:40:00.002-06:00

Dead Is TheNew Black :Fashion Avenue Mysteries

ChristineDeMaio-Rice
Create Space
September2011
Mystery-CozyStyle
4 Stars

Welcome tothe fashion world and murder. Laura Carnegienot only loves her job as a pattern maker at Jeremy St. James Fashions, shealso is in love with her boss. . Only one problem with this little one sided romance, Jeremy isgay or that’s the rumor that’s going around. As everyone is trying toget prepared for their big showing onFriday night. When Gracie, Jeremy’s partner turns up dead and Jeremy is found standing over the body, it’s not long beforehe is arrested for murder. Laura cannot believe that Jeremy could kill anyoneand she out to become a JessicaFletcher sleuth and solve this murder on her own. Along the way she runs into counterfeiters of Jeremy’s brands along with a few mobsters. Next thing you know Laura is indeeper trouble than what she bargained for. Can she solve this mystery before the big Friday showing? Will she beable to prove Jeremy’s innocence or is he? Sometimes when we think we knowpeople we find out we were wrong as Laura soon finds out.

I like agood cozy who dun it type book and I found this book to fit the bill. I foundmost of the characters to be likeable as with any book one will have afavorite and Laura was mine. There were lots of twists and turns throughout as I tried to figure out just who the killer wasand also a lesson was learned about the fashion industry. If you are a cozytype mystery reader than I think youwill enjoy “Dead Is The New Black”

I receivedthis complimentary e-book from Red Adept Select books. A positivereview was not required and all opinions are strictly my own of the book.

Selective Disretion By Mary F. Twitty

2011-12-31T07:08:00.003-06:00

Reviewed for Readers Favorite
5 Stars

Selective Discretion by Mary F. Twitty is a fictional novel base on an actual happening from the year 1847-1848.The basic facts are true but most of the records were destroyed during the civil war.

Synopsis: When Carrie Matthews was born on the plantation, her father being John Matthews. Carrie then being a mulatto showed more of a white heritage then the colored. When she was twelve years old she was raped by her own father who resulted in a pregnancy and a daughter being born.

Carrie lived all her life on the plantation except for a few short years when she became a wet nurse for Jacob Matthews Boys. Jacob had taught Carrie how to read and write and every summer when he returned from school he brought her more books which she had to keep hidden. Slaves were not allowed to learn how to read or write. Raising her daughter along with Jacob’s two boys, Jacob and his wife eventually adopted her daughter Precious and Carrie was no longer permitted to see her daughter. Although of colored heritage one never would have known by looking at Precious whom they renamed. That’s when the beatings started by her master until she had enough and killed him with a hoe. After a year in the courts, Carrie was exonerated by the jury only to be hanged by proclamation of the Governor.

This is a very interesting novel and one would think that they were reading the actual court preceedings. Back before the civil war it seems dogs held a higher respect than the slaves. As I read the book I could feel the anguish that Carrie was going through , the pain inflicted on her, but her faith was strong. As I journeyed through the trial and the minds of the people in the courtroom, the lawyers, how Carrie was treated while she was in jail, I was almost sure that she would be exonerated. I have always been interested in the history of happenings before and during the civil war and so I looked this up on the internet and yes it actually did happen as portrayed in the book. The names have been changed but on September 22, 1848, Carrie who was assaulted and beaten from an early age was eventually led to the gallows.

Note: The language is written as it would be spoken, which I felt made the book better.

Story from Jacksonville Sun

Never Will I Leave You by Ann Browning

2011-12-30T13:48:00.003-06:00

Never Will ILeave You

Ann Browning
Create Space
Christian Romance; Suspense/Mystery
5 Stars

Never Will I Leave You is a novel that once you pick it up and read thefirst page you will be hooked right tothe exciting conclusion. It has romance, suspense, deceit, jealousy and murderwhile being a Christian based book.

When LeslieMason finds herself in an adulterous affair, it’s a dream that finally bringsher to the realization that she needs to end it and get her marriage back inorder. Both her and her husband are Christians and she knows what she is doingis wrong, but Nicholas Jano is not about to let her go. He says he loves herand he will eventually have her for his own. Two months later when Leslie’s husband stops at the drug store for hisevening paper he is gunned down in what is suppose to look like armed robberyof the store. Only one problem he is the only one shot. Was he the intendedtarget? Leslie pregnant with their first child loses the baby and in the processturns her back on God. Even though she asked for forgiveness for her sin, shefeels God took away her husband and child to punish her. Going back to Ohiowith her mother has not helped, Nicholas is still chasing after her. LeslieLife has really taken a turn to the wrong and she is not having much helpgetting it straightened out. When people that have harmed her end up dead is ita coincidence or is Nicholas behind it. Will her two closest friends turn theirback on her or will they help pull her back into reality? Will after all hertrials she has gone through will Leslie eventually turn back to God the one that can help her the most and never leave her? Does Nicholas really loveLeslie or is she an obsession he has to have?

I read thisbook in a day and soon found out if I tried to lay it down I had to turn onemore page. I myself thought Nicholas was in one form or another responsible forthe murders even if he did not do them himself. Being Italian I just knew hewould be connected to mob activities. To me he seemed to be too controlling butin the end I seen why. There is a great cast of characters in the book but Ireally felt for Leslie. In the end I was totally shocked at who the killer was.No fair going to the end because you will not learn anything on the last coupleof pages. Excellent book and I highly recommend it.

I would liketo thank the author for giving me a chance to read her book. All views of thisbook are strictly my own.

End of the year is almost here

2011-12-28T08:08:00.001-06:00

I hope everyone had a most wonderful and safe Christmas and is looking forward to the New Year. I know that throughout the nation there were several tragedies and more that we proble never heard about and that is especially hard on familes. I pray that the Lord be with them all in these times of their distress and give them strength to go on.

For all authors out there that like me to review their books. I am taking the month of January off. I still have several books to try and get caught up on and I know that will take me into the New Year but I will not be accepting any new books to review until February. For one thing my eyes have really taken a strain this past year and with a huge home library of my own I have a few of mine I want to read with out feeling the pressures of letting someone else book slide for a bit.

We all need a break once in awhile and I have not taken a break at all this year from reading. even on a mini weekend vacation, I took books with me, so January is going to be my time away for a bit.

May God Bless you all and your books do great..

Miss Lynn

Tears of Min Brock by J E Lowder

2011-12-28T07:59:00.001-06:00

Tears Of MinBrock ( Book 1 of the War of Whispers series)

J.E . Lowder
MorehouseMedia Group Inc.
July 2011
Fantasy
Ages: Teens to Adults
5 Stars

When I firststarted to read this book, the first thing that came to my mind was Chroniclesof Narnia. I read this book in a Christian attitude and one could see a Christianoutlay to the plot, just as there is to Narnia. The main plot of the storyrevolves around the two main characters ,teenagers Elabea and Galadin, but therest of the characters lend their own special element to the story. Raised inan atmosphere after what was known as the dark war, children were not allowed tolearn how to read under the rules of Cauldron. Under the authority of theCauldron the people could not speak about anything that happen before time orallow their children to ask questions. They heard everything. When Elabea hearsthe whisper of the Only call her name, the battle of the whispers begins. As Elabea and Galadin make a mistake and takedown a notice that was place on thedoors of their homes troubles begin. Now they are on the run back to thevillage of Claire that is said to have been destroyed. This is when Elabealearns she is to be a storyteller and Galadin a great warrior. As they run fortheir lives the Cauldron is out to capture and destroy them. When they learnthe truth that the Cauldron is the evil ones that have led the people tobelieve on them, fathers now plan to over thrown them and go back to what theirlife once was. Will Elabea and Galadin make it to Claire? Is the village stillthere or destroyed like the Caldron said. Will the fathers turn again and go towar as the whispers of Good and Evil are once again heard throughout the land?

I know thatall teens will enjoy this book just as many adults will .There is so much tothis story that I just cover a miniscule of it trying not to give too much awaybut just enough to make it interesting. What started out as bed time storiesfor his children turned into these novel years later? I will wait patiently forbook 2 of the series.

Lakeview Park by Larry Collins

2011-12-24T07:51:00.000-06:00

Lakeview Park

Larry Collins
I Universe
December 2011
Short Stories
5 Stars

Have you ever walked through the parkor just set on a bench and watched otherpeople? Do you ever wonder what their life is like, whether they are poor orrich, have a loving family or anestranged family?

Lakeview Park is a collection offictional stories based on a few actual events or places. It’s the stories of15 different people who all use the parkin one form or another. Some just to talk a walk, some to feed the ducks andothers to reminisce. There are others who like to race their sailboats in thelake or just pick up cans for money tolive on. And then we have Carlos the grounds keeper who has met them all, knowstheir names , their problems, walks with them and talks with them. Some storieswill make you smile, so will make you feel a little tug at your heart or cause a little tear to form.Did I have a favorite among the stories and the people? Yes, all of them. It would be hard to pick out just one ot two but I would have to say the story of Alice andGeorge or Carlos.

I have read every book that has been written byLarry Collins and his wife Lorna. If youhave not read any before than your are in for a real treat. Their stories arecleaning written and always have a meaning in them that one can take to heart. After seeing the trailer Iknow you will want to read the book. Recommended for everyone.

LakeviewPark Trailer

The Ocean and The Hourglass by DanO'Brien

2011-12-22T08:00:00.004-06:00

The Oceanand the Hourglass

Dan O’Brien
Create Space
Fantasy
Youth
4 Stars

The Ocean andthe Hourglass is the story of one teenage boy by the name of Nicholas, a boywho is bullied not only by the kids at school but also it seems by his own mother.When his father left years earlier it was just him, an alcoholic mother and hisone joy in life, his comic books. In them he found his hero, the Mariner, whocovered the wide expanse of the ocean with a wicked blade in his hand, alwaysready for a battle. Arriving at school on a cold rainy morning there were theusual boys, standing around ready to pick on Nicholas. When they take his comicbook and tear it into that’s about the last straw for Nicholas. Why can’t he live by the ocean instead of in Wyoming?Leaving school he goes to the library he soon will find himself in for a majorsurprise. That’s when the old librarian introduces him to a book and anhourglass. Now the adventure begins as Nicholas lives out his fantasy in aworld he creates. A faraway world that he has always dreamed of, distance landsand of course the ocean. Now he is there, Lost cities, civilization in thedeepest depths, giants, sea creatures and anadventure of a life time. Will Nicholas spend the rest of his life wandering around in this adventure or will he gettransported back home to Wyoming? Whatis around the next corner for Nicholas? Can he find the courage to getthrough this adventure and the strength togo where is imagination leads him. Courage and Strength that he has never knowhow to show before.

I reallyenjoyed this book, even though it was written for a younger audience . I feelanyone that enjoys reading the fantasynovels will enjoy this book. A sequel tothis book would be great as one wouldcontinue on with the adventures ofNicholas. I like the fact that as a fantasy it was not outrageous as some are with outlandish characters. The charactershere even though a figment of Nicholas imagination , they were real people. I feel ages 13 and up willenjoy this book and that boys who are not much of a reader will connect with it.

Train Wreck by Bennett Gavrish

2011-12-20T16:22:00.002-06:00

Train Wreck

Bennett Gavrish
Kindle Edition
GeneralFiction/Thriller
4 stars

TrainWreck by Bennett Gavrish is a novel that revolves around themain character Nick Buchanan. Workingfor an insurance company Nick soon learns what they are doing could be illegal.When they start gambling with your life and they are the beneficiary if you die well that can become a littlequestionable. After a client is murdered, Nick now finds himself in the middle of a conspiracythat he must get unravel before there isanother victim. Nick is on his way to Washington DC. On what is better known as the Red EyeAmtrack or the night train and what a cast of characters are riding with him.As each passenger tells the story abouttheirself, it is soon apparent that each one is connected to Nick in one way or another.

The storywas good, the plot was fine and quite humorous throughout, There was quite abit of jumping back and forth from thepast to the present, but it did notreally take much away from the plot as some do when wrote in this style. Thisis a quick read as I read it in one afternoon. For a first novel I feel thebook is pretty good. The only problem I seemed to have was the coarse language occasionally throughout the book and the sexual innuendoes .Recommendedfor those that like a general fictional thriller and doesnot mind the dark humor as I would call it.

The Boy Who Flew With Eagles by Ben Woodard

2011-12-20T07:41:00.003-06:00

The Boy WhoFlew With Eagles

Ben Woodard -author; Laura Leikona – illustrator
Kindle Edition
Youth
5 Stars

The Boy WhoFlew with Eagles is a book written for youth mainly geared towards boys. Boysseem more reluctant to read than girls and this is an ideal book to get themstarted on a reading journey. It’s the story Naa’ki, a young Native Americanboy who is grabbed by an eagle and carried off to her nest where he learns fromher how her babies are starving and there is no food to gather. Facing danger andthe possibilities of never seeing his family again, he strikes a deal with themother. He will gather minnows to feed the eaglets until they are old enough toleave the nest. As the time goes on, and the eaglets are ready to take flying lessonsso is Naa’ki. Can he learn to fly like the eagles? When the mother shows him how the salmon areback and explain to him how his people depletes the food supply, can he go homeand convince his family?, What does he have to do to prove where he has been? Now that he is back home can hefly again?

This is avery enjoyable short story with a powerful lesson attached to it... The NativeAmericans have a strong belief in the animal world, especially eagles and whatI received as I read this book is a lesson on sharing what we have and caringfor others. Just as Naa’ki cared enoughfor the eagles he shared his knowledge of how to prevent the eaglets fromstarving, children should learn also how to share what they have and care forothers. The illustrations at the beginning of each chapter are amazing, All inall an excellent book. I highly recommended this book for all youth.

About Book Reviews Containing Coarse Language

2011-12-19T15:40:00.002-06:00

Lately I have been getting quite a few books that I have been asked to review and I get very little info about the book. Like a movie trailer they tell you maybe the best part of what the book is about.. That is fine, but they fail to mention that book is quite full of coarse language. Occasional language I can put up with but when its almost in every paragraph throughout the whole book I will refuse to keep reading it.

I read your books as a hobby and to help you get your book noticed and I do not relish getting into a good book just to have it bogged down with the almighty "F" or GD word contineously. I have been know to block out that word and others and I find it makes no difference to the story line at all.I think it is put in there to think the book will sell better.

If you want me to read your book then please make a notation when you write me and mention that it is very graphic orientated with language and I will use my own discretion. There are plenty of other reviewers out there that will read books written like this , but I am not one of them. Books like these I do make a note in my review and usually specify for adults only. I would not want a teenager to get ahold of them and read it.

As stated in the page about me if you have read it: No highly sensual/erotic sexual encounters or coarse language among other things

Thank You

Hidden Diary-Volume 4 by Sandra Byrd

2011-12-19T05:58:00.000-06:00

HiddenDiary- Volume 4

Sandra Byrd
E-BookEdition
OriginallyPublished by Bethany House
ChristianFiction
Ages 8-12
5 Stars
Books available on Kindle and Nook or as a paperback.

In thefinal episodes of the Hidden DiarySeries we find the last two stories fromthe original 8 book series, “Take AChance” and” One Plus One”. If you havebeen following the reviews I havewritten on this great set of books for young girls you will relate to the diary that was found and how two girls became friendsand are following the it, trying to duplicate what was done in the diary. Itwas written my Serena’s grandmother as a young girl and her friend. Now Lucy and Serena are writing their own together with their accomplishments.

Take AChance has Lucy and Serena going out to the riding stables, only to learn thatit may soon close due to finance problems. When Lucy hears about a producerthat wants to shoot a commercial on a real working ranch she puts a little bugin his ear and tells him about the Double C ranch. Always wanting to ride astallion like the girls in the diary,Lucy takes him out for a ride. In the midst of getting thrown of she landsright in front of the producer who arrived earlier than expected. Through all of what they have worked for will this ruin the chance for the owner of the ranch?

One On Oneis the final episode where Lucy hearsabout the rally that they hold every year on Catalina Island. One has to ride atandem bike with a friend. One problemnone of the friends she has met thissummer will ride with her. They are allriding with their brothers or sisters and she has neither. Even Charlotte thegirl she babysits for will not ride withher because of her new baby sister theyjust adopted. Tired of being a onlychild, Lucy writes to the adoption agency . The answer she got back was notwhat she expected. The lady was coming to their house and she had not told her parents what she had done. Can Lucy find away to ride in the rally andalso maybe get a brother or a sister.One thing is for sure through both of these stories. Lucy has come to depend on God for answers and has learned that honesty is always thebest policy.

This is a greatset of books that teaches one a greatset of family values, trust and faith, along with how to deal with friendships.Its always best to read a book in aseries, but these can be read also as a standalone, because each book explains how they became friendsand how the diary was found. Thesewillbe a great edition to any girls reading library.

Note: For those who have been following my reviews on this series watch for the next set of reviews on the "Secret Sisters" series after the first of the year

Every one have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, May 2012 bring you many blessings.

Bitten by Dan O'Brien a Paranormal Thriller

2011-12-16T15:27:00.002-06:00

Bitten

Dan O’ Brien
Create Space
ParanormalThriller/Suspense
4 Stars

Something orsomeone is going on a killing spree in the cold woods of a small northern Minnesota town that has rarely if ever seen crime before. When FBI agent LaurenWestlake shows up in the small town of Locke,Minnesota she is about to open up a investigation that is going totake the little police department to heights it’s never been before. Lookingback on some old cases a recent killing inLocke takes on the same M.O. Somethingis killing, ripping apart the body and ripping pieces of skin off of the victim.Is it a psychotic man or some form of beastly animal? When Lauren and Sheriff Montgomery happen across a beast, whilereturning from a scene, they now realize there is more to this than one thinks.As she chases it Lauren meets up with Hecate in a cabin in the woods, where sheis served tea that is actually a potion. This opens the eyes of Lauren and she is able to see the past. A man who longs to become a werewolfand a werewolf who longs to become aman. Which one is the killer?

This wasquite an interesting thriller that keepsone reading to see how or if they willcapture the beast. The main character Lauren portrays a person that is strong willed and able tohandle herself in almost any situation. In the end we find out who the realwerewolf and that leads to the impression that there will be sequel to the book. If you are a reader of the paranormal genre then I feel likeyou will enjoy Bitten . Note: Warning, There is hints of sexual activity occasionally in the book but the actual act is notdescribed ,parts that can become quite graphic in relation to the killings and the book does contain coarse andgraphic language throughout so you willnot be surprised when you pick up the book to read. Other than that the book is a great read, andexcellent plot with great characters that keeps one glued to the pages .

Eyes Behind Belligerence-A Novel about Pearl Harbor

2011-12-14T08:28:00.004-06:00

Eyes Behind Belligerence

K.P. Kollenborn
Available on Kindle & Nook
General Fiction-based on historicalHappenings
564 pages
5 Stars

Written in five parts the book is anepic tale of how the Japanese living in America on Bainbridge Island,Washington suffered undue humility and harassment when the Japanese bombedPearl Harbor. The main story centers around two boys Jim and Russell, theirfamilies and how the Japanese communityis affected by the war.

The novel begins with Jim trying to dealwith the suicide of his older brother and years after still blames his father, Jim ismore the quite type while Russell ismore outgoing. As they say opposites attract each other and no matter what Jimand Russell always seem to connect in one way or another. With the advent ofthe war, the families start to sufferpersecution. Their stores are vandalized, they have to turn over anythingthat could harm or incriminate them in any way, weapons, knives and down toeven including 2 way radios. Nowthey have arrested all the men and the rest of their families are being transportedoff the island leaving their homes, bank accounts and belongings behind forlooters to take advantage of.

As they are all transferred to a relocation camp, that could be in all reality a lesser form of a concentration camp, this is where they willbeing till the war ends. Here is whereJim and Russell and their families are now living along with about 10,000 otherJapanese families. With a watchtower at either end there is no chance forescape as they have to deal with the sand, the heat, meager meals, no privacyand a guard that would just as soon shoot them all as to have to look at them. Aswith any form of camp, problems arise, families go against families, gangs form,friendships either part or strengthen and romance can blossom. So goes thelives of Jim and Russell as they both manage to keep their friendship throughout.

A year after the advent of Pearl Harbor, the camp is showingsigns of political unrest. There areriots, people accusing each other ofwrong doings. Americans against each other. Those for and those against. As the militarysets into to recruit members for a segregated combat unit, Jim aand Russellboth enlist, Russell to prove his loyalty to America. As he fights against hisown country , Jim being disloyal is sent to a different camp .Hopefully this willhelp him to grown up and become a loyal American.With the end of the war andfamilies returning back to Bainbridge Island, Jim and Russell vow to remainfriends. While Russell goes off to college, Jim has finally learned to forgivehis father for his brothers suicide anddecides to remain in Bainbridge. Now isthe time to start their lives over and try to regain back the respect from the community that they hadlost years earlier.

This is a long book but a veryinteresting novel. For those that lived back in that time and read this book itwill bring back memories, memories of hating and being hated. For the youngergeneration they can read but really not understand what it was like. I have tosay the author did a wonderful job on researchingthe book before writing it.I just touch on a bit of the subject contained inthis book. There is much more that one needs to read to reach the full impactof the novel. Recommended for all who like to read factual books based on actual events. Whould make a great

K.P. Kollenborn

Deep Blue Ocean by Rose Robbins

2011-12-11T06:39:00.001-06:00

Deep BlueOcean

Rose Robbins
Dawn RiverPress
Christian NonFiction
5 Stars

Deep Blue Ocean; My Voyage Into God And Love by Rose Robbins is the story of how the authoras a young child developed a relationship with God. Many people in the world today, know about God, many are Christians and know God, butthere are very few that have what iscalled a relationship with God. There is a difference between religion andrelationship. The author did not have this relationship continually. There wasa time that she became estranged fromGod even though he never left her. Dealing with parents that I believe inreading was not sure how to go about teaching their child about God, sexualabuse and a demanding verbally abusive husband. As she eventually turned backto the voice of God she was freed from that abuse and until she met her secondhusband that showed her there can be love between a man and a wife without outbeing abusive. This then is about how the author found God, talks to God andhears God, not openly but emotionally . It is not a self help book, and it isnot a book on theology and she does notquote scriptures for you to look up. She is not out to try and convince youthat there is a God, because all most everyone knows there is a God.

As I read I found myself in several of the situations thatthe author went through and I thought to myself ,she could be writingthis about me. From the verbal abuse, to the churches that try to run yourlife. That in itself is a big problem in the world today and why people turnaway from church and God. They tend toteach religion and Christianity entertained and leave out the love relationship with God.

This was a fast read book and I read it in one evening. Ilove the way she uses water as an analogy and how it flows and how the love of God flows. I would recommend this bookfor all women to read and would love to give a copy to all the women in mysmall group. The book may be small but it has a powerful message dealing with aone on one relationship with God.

Rose Robbins

The Voice of the Waterfalls by Natasha A. Salnikova

2011-12-09T07:33:00.001-06:00

Available on Kindle
5 Stars

The Voice of the Waterfalls by Natasha A. Salnikova is a edge of your seat psychological suspense filled thriller that will have you turning one more page and another and another. It is very hard to put down and before you know it you have reached the thrilling conclusion
.
The story revolves mainly around Inga a 23 year old girl who was kidnapped in Ohio and Anthony, a attorney from Boston. Believing a stranger about a modeling job she was transferred to Quiet River, Washington where she was used as a sex slave. When a patron discovers what had happened and how she ended up here he made a way possible for her to escape. Being pursued by her captors, she found safety in a young man named Alman who just happened to be passing by at that time. Or did she? Little did she realize that she went from one disaster in her life to another. When her attempt to escaped was foiled she has soon discovered there is no way possible to escape this house of terror. Held captive by Alman, his mother, father and sister, she will bide her time till she can find another way out.

Anthony is trying to escape from a case gone bad and decides to visit his grandmother in Quiet River. Flying out to Washington , a elderly lady just happens to sit next to him. As she proceeds to read his fortune Anthony could care less tell she tells him to be careful, danger lurks while he is in Quiet River. Scoffing it off, Anthony now is beginning to wonder. The town is not the same as it once was. Everyone seems to be watching his every move even though they know who he is. The first thing they say is why are you here and when are you leaving? What has he done to deserve this treatment? Was the card reading accurate? Even his grandmother is trying to push him out and head him back to Boston.

This is the second book that I have read of Natasha’s and I have to say it tossup between the two which one is the best. The tension throughout this book is so overpowering that it leaves you wondering is this all in her mind,is she sane or crazy,will she get out? There is so much to this book that I just touched on the main subject. It will leave you wondering,what secrets does the basement hold? What are the secrets the family is keeping from her? To give you more would spoil the terror that is present through out. The secondary characters in the book lend just as much credence to the plot as the main characters do. This is one of those book that would make a great made for TV thriller. The book does contain coarse language occasionally and violence but there are no explicit sexual scenes. If you like a good psychological thriller to read then you will want to read “The Voice of the Waterfalls.

I would like to thank the author who gave me the chance to read her book. If you like this one, you will want to read her book” Quiet River” also for another thrilling experience.

Hidden Diary Vol 3 by Sandra Byrd

2011-12-08T08:29:00.001-06:00

Hidden DiaryVolume 3

Sandra Byrd
ChristianFiction
KindleEdition
OriginallyPublished by Bethany House 2002
Ages 8-12
5 Stars

In the third volume of the Hidden Diary series,we find Lucy and Serena still trying to follow the diary. As with the first two books of this series we find they have been combined from a eight book series to a 4 book with twostories in each volume. They teach girls such values dealing with fun , friends, family and faith.

The fifthbook in the series is” Pass It On”. Aswe recall the girls are following what Serena’s grandmother and her friend didback when they wrote the diary , except now they have to adjust tothe present time. This week they are to pass something on to a friend or someone. Like being a secret pal .When Lucy receives achain letter and it assures her of good luck, she knows she needs to pass it onbut after a trip on the Queen Mary withher mother and Serena and her mother shedecides againsy it. Now will she have bad luck like the letter says or is it all a hoax? With a week of good andbad things happening to her, she soon learned to realizewho is in control and luck , well maybe its good and maybe not. Will Lucy learn what it takes to do for toothers? It’s not as easy as one thinks it is

The sixth book “Change of Heart” finds the girlsat Church camp. When Lucy found out about it her chance go came to late, the camp was full,that was till luck was on her side and they had a cancellation. Now she couldbe with all her friends and can she? When she found out about the Golden Pig’s Foot competition they have between the differentgroups she knew she would excel at the diving, but she wasn’tsure about the other, the rope climbing or the archery and just what was bunnyhandling? Now there is a problem, when she gets to camp she is not with herfriends but in a strange cabin with new girls. This is going to blow thecompetition out of the water. Will she try to lose on purpose so Serena and her other friends will win, orwill she try to win for the group she is with. Fast becomingfriends with the new group she finds one that is holding on to secret. Can Lucy be the friend she needs? Will Lucy do theright thing during the competition?These are some hard major decisions for a 12 year old to have to make withoutdestroying all friendships.

Once againSandra has continued on with this series that I feel all girls will fall in love with. Even for girls that arenot a Christian I feel this series willhelp lead them to the saving knowledge ofChrist. Not only will it help them deal with family situations, but will alsohelp them to develop friendships and todo the right thing. Great lesson sthroughout the whole series.

Unmasking The Antichrist by Ron Rhodes

2011-12-07T13:49:00.001-06:00

Reviewed for Readers Favorite
5 Stars

Unmasking The Antichrist by Ron Rhodes is a book that deals with a topic that always seems to be debated about.Just who is the Antichrist? Is he a Jew,a Muslim, or could he be from the Catholic Papacy? As Ron Rhodes takes us through many scriptures dealing with the prophecy of the antichrist he also shares thoughts of others who over the years have written articles dealing with this topic and he shows through scriptures where they are wrong. So many people think the antichrist is already alive and working in the world today or that he is a child waiting to come into the realm of a full political leader. True he already has workers in the field but he is not here yet. There is so many questions posed today that it can be mind bending. Are prophecy’s already fulfilled,Is he a beastor half human half demon? Will people actually think he is God on earth? Will we be here when he rules? The author answers these questions and many more and gives the reader plenty of scriptures to study .

As one who has always been interested in the prophetic books of the bible, whenever I come across a book dealing with this type of subject matter I usually grab hold of it to read and study. As with any book dealing with prophecy or the bible itself,its always best to have your bible handy as you read. There are many false teachers out there today that can twist things around and make them seem so real that one can actually believe them if they do not check scriptures against their book. As I read and studied this book I have found the author to be pretty accurate as to what I have learned over the years dealing with this subject. It’s a book that as a Christian you will understand what is going to happen. This may bring many non Christians to the reality that they need to accept Christ and many atheists will scoff at the book,but it is true. As I talked with my pastor about the book he had one thing to say. It is pretty accurate. Recommended for all who enjoy digging deep into bible prophecy and what the future holds. Look for Unmasking The Antichrist on the market in March 2012

Hidden Diary-Vol 2 by Sandra Byrd

2011-12-05T17:05:00.001-06:00

Hidden DiaryVolume 2

Sandra Byrd
KindleEdition
OriginallyPublished by Bethany House
ChristianFiction
Ages 8-12
5 Stars

Originally the Hidden Diary Series consisted of 8 books.With the re-issue of the series into e-book format the author has combined 2 books into one to make it a 4 book series..In the first book we had the first twostories in the series. In volume 2 we find books 3 and 4 of the original series , Just Between Friends and Take A Bow.

In the firstbook we met Lucy and Serena as they read the diary that Lucy had found and waswritten by Serena’s grandmother. As they are trying to do each week what waswritten many years ago this week they were to help someone that was in trouble.Well it just so happens they come acrossan injured dog who is about to give birth to puppies. Serena cannot take her and Lucy is not allowed pets in the homethey are staying in. but she sneaks her in anyway. Now the trouble seems to have follow on them.Who can take care of the dog? Who canthey give the puppies to? What about food and vet care? But in the endeverything works out fine as Lucy learns to trust in God.

In Take abow, the main idea of the story like is trying to help each other overcome afear they have. With a trip to KnottsBerry Farm, Lucy things she can help Serena get over her fear of scary rides but she soon finds out pushingcould break up their friendship. Withthe art festival coming up that weekend, Lucy tries to push Selena intoentering and Likewise Serena get Lucy to play the piano. It shows faith can overpower their fears aseach girl faces them.

Once again Ifelt this to be a great lesson learnedon how we need to learn to trust not only in our families and friends but toput our trust in God. This took me back about 52 years when I read about the girls going toKnotts Berry Farm. Seems I spent many many weekends there. I am thoroughly enjoying this series of books and would like to thankthe author for giving me the chance to read them. A positive review was notrequired and all opinions are my own impression of the book.

The Awesome Book of Unusual Bible Hero's for Kids

2011-12-04T06:34:00.001-06:00

Reviewed . for Readers Favorite
5 Stars

The Awesome Book of Unusual Bible Heroes for Kids by Sandy Silverthorne is a great book for kids ages 8-12 years old. Today many children in this age reign learn about the hero’s in the Bible through their Sunday School class but some seem uninterested. Children have a hard time understanding at times especially in the Old Testament just exactly what was going on. With Mr. Silverthorne’s book written using modern-day settings and some hilarious illustrations the children can grasp the concept of what was going on. From the episode of Pharaoh drowning all baby boys born,to Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-Nego in the fiery furnace, Jonah and the great fish right up to Peter and Jesus,the book also teaches them about lesser known hero’s of the bible that children seldom learn about.This helps them to understand there are more heros in the bible besides the main ones they have always heard about.

Even as an adult I have to say that I enjoyed reading this book very much. The stories are accurate even though they are written with a tongue in cheek attitude. I had to laugh at some of the excerpts where it says the story depicts graphic details. In short order,girls will probably run from the room yelling gross while the boys however will probably be saying right on. With a synopsis of the story at the beginning and a devotion at the end for the appropriate age level, the child will learn to apply the story to their own lives. How to overcome obstacles that they may face,to not running away from God when he asks you to do something. I have to say this is one of the best books I have read for children. I recommend all parents to get this book and let their child read it, along with their bible so they can see the accuracy of the story. Not only will it teach them a lesson, it will also help them to understand the bible better. Look for this book to be out on the market in Feb 2012

Blind Travelers Blues

2011-12-03T18:09:00.001-06:00

BlindTravelers Blues (A Douglas Abledan Novel)

Robert P. Bennett
Suspense/Thriller/GeneralFiction
Available on Kindle
October24/2011
5 Stars

In the longawaited sequel to his first book Blind Traveler Down a Dark River, BlindTravelers Blues has hit the market. Thisstand alone series features DouglasAbledan a software designer who just happens to be blind. He hasnot always been blind but due to an unfortunate accident that took away hiseyesight , he has a knack for gettinginto the middle of murder investigations. Now he is mixed up in another one.

After a series of earthquakes uncovered a lostcity in Mexico, archaeologist have been digging through the ruins. When anearthen artifact is accidently destroyedit set free a fine powder that had been contained inside. Little did one knowthe effect it would have later on.

2021. Corncrops are failing through some plight orfungus that has engulfed all the cropsin Mexico and threatening to move into the United States. Earthquakes have become more prevalent and Chicago hasbeen hit. When Douglas Abledan heads for a vacation in Chicago little did heknow that this would not be a relaxing one. Meeting agriculture pathologist Cara Cordelia on the trip they fast became friends,that is till she ended up dead the nextday. When they discovered she had been murdered , they now had a search ontheir hands. When Douglas starts his own investigation it soon puts him in thehot seat of being the main suspect. With two more murders happening can heprove that he is innocent.

This was avery enjoyable mystery to read. All though one knew who was doing the killingit was how or when would they finally discover them before they convicted the wrongman. The characters were well written and vwey easy to become connected with.It definitely is a page turner as the action just keeps getting better. It is acleanly written book with no coarse language and with only hints at sexualactivity. That makes for a big plus with me. Even though it is in the future, it is not one that is outlandish in regards to futuristic happenings. It iswritten in such a way that it could be in the present. If you enjoy a good mystery/suspense with plenty oftwists and turns, then you will enjoy “BlindTravelers Blues”.

RobertBennett

Renmillers Foxy Lil Lass "Pookie" 2/8/1999-12/1/2011

2011-12-02T15:18:00.001-06:00

In Memory :
Reinmillers Foxy Lil Lass AKA "Pookie" was the last German Shepherd after 25 years of breeding and raising German Shepherds. Her Great Great Grandfather was GV CH Stuttgarts Sundance Kid on her sires side and her Dams side was full German/ Checz Linage.
2/8/1999-12/1/2011

She was my friend, mypartner, my defender, my dog.

I was her life, her love, herleader.
She will be mine, faithful and true, to the
last beat of her heart.
I owe it to her to be worthy of such devotion."

I talked to her when I'm lonesome like;

And I'm sure she understood.
When sh looked at me so attentively,
And gently lickd my hands;
Then she rubbed her nose on my tailored clothes,
But I never say no to that.
For the good Lord knows I can buy more clothes,
But never a friend like that.

Wish You Were Here (Hidden Diary Series vol 1) Sandra Byrd

2011-12-02T05:31:00.001-06:00

Wish YouWere Here (Hidden Diary Series- Volume 1)

Sandra Byrd
E-BookEdition
OriginallyPublished 2001 by Bethany House
ChristianFiction
Ages 8-12
5 Stars

In the firstvolume of her Hidden Diary Series consists of a two part story Cross My Heart and Make AWish . In part 1 the reader meets LucyLarson , an only child who is on vacation with her parents on the greatCatalina Island. As she waits patientlyfor her cousin Katie to be able to join her, she soon learns she will not beable to make it. Now what is Lucysuppose to do? With no friends on the Island she may as well pack up her thingsand let her mom and dad send her back home. Due to her father’s line of work, each summer they go to a new vacation spot. It’s hard to makefriends when you are only there a couplemonths. When Lucy discovers a hidden diary and the key in a secret place inher room, little did she know that itwould be a start of a summer friendship. In part 2, we follow along as themystery of the diary is solved and Lucy now has a new friend Serena,who’s great grandmother is one of the original writers in the diary. As theyread a page a week, their friendship grows along with Lucy’s faith.

This is aexcellent story with a great lesson in life. Not only dealing with friendship,but togetherness as a family also. Being an only child is hard on some kidsespecially if both parents either work or in Lucy’s case her father works andher mother has her hobby she deals with. We also learn that sometimesthe one that is the leader of the packso to speak may have other problems . To compensate for their home life theybecome better known as the top dog, if you want to be friends with me you do what I say type of person. Not only isthe lesson on friendship the major focal point of the story we also find alesson on faith. Without being preachy, the book reminds us that we always havea friend that sticks closer than a brother and that is God. To an adult thebook may seem like it is written in a hurried paced, that things happen tofast, but in the mind of a eight yearold reading it, it moves at the right pace.I recommend this whole series forall girls and even their parents to read.

Last Laughs-A Pocketful of Wry for the Aging

2011-12-01T06:47:00.001-06:00

LastLaughs-A Pocketful of Wry for the Aging

EverettMattlin
Two HarborsPress
May 16,2011
5 Stars

Just howold does one have to be when they saythey are “over the hill”? I remember back when everyone said when you reached forty you were over the hill. Nowadaysif you are forty they say you're still young. So say fifty, sixty? Howabout the age of eighty, which the author has now passed?

As I readthis book I could not help but remember back when. Yes I guess one could say Ihave reached the mark of a senior citizen but not quite as old as theauthor. Over the hill? Well not quite.My old saying is , you are as old as you feel, but as I read this book and remembered back when maybe I am a littleolder than I feel. As Mr. Mattlin hashis thoughts on When men were men and women were girls compared to today’sgeneration. When women stayed home and took care of the household duties andraised the children and the men were the bread winner for the family. Today ittakes two paychecks to run a household, but women are to the point where theyrun big companies, jet set between business,, manage fortune 500 companies ,but as the authorbelieves in the lower class, men are still men and women are still girls.

This book isvery enlightening and one will get achuckle out of almost every page, from using computers, to cell phones and e readers. From littlequips such as , “Have a nice day” to the answer. “Thank you, but I have otherplans” From the difference in the movies today from those of the yesteryear.The perils of traveling, to doctor appointment s to sleeping in separate bedrooms. There is still something grand about old age or over the hill, Days on the front porch in the rocking chair,afternoon naps, shutting off the hearing aid and looking through past photoalbums or doing nothing at all.

I thinkanyone over the age of 65 will enjoythis book and even the younger generation will get a kick out of reading it. Recommended for a great afternoonread.

I would like to that the Director of Publicity for this complimentary copy to review. All opinions are expressely my own.

A CONTEST to celebrate the 100th Post on the Telbat's Tablet site!

2011-11-29T16:16:00.001-06:00

A CONTEST tocelebrate the 100^th Post on the Telbat's Tablet site!

Decemberis a special month for Christian Author David Telbat and he'd like to celebratehis 100-post mile marker by giving away a copy of his ebook, Dark Liaison, A Christian SuspenseNovel, in a random drawing!

Just leave a comment on the Telbat's Tabletsite during the month of December, and your name/email will be put into the"bucket" for a chance to be drawn after December! The book isavailable as PDF and Kindle versions at this time (more formats availablesoon!).

Thiscontest is ONLY FOR THE MONTH OF DECEMBER so be sure to go check out the freestories on the site and leave your comment! David will announce the winner onhis site January 3rd. PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD!

ANDD.I. Telbat says he would like to create a CUSTOM ADVENTURE STORY for thewinner as well! You, the winner, will be the protagonist involved in atrue-to-life covert mission in a custom short story. Many of D.I. Telbat's freeweekly short stories on his site are about the rescue of persecuted Christians.Check them out and leave your comment! Looking forward to "seeing"you! Please spread the word!

Because of D.I. Telbat's concern for persecutedChristians worldwide, he has committed to donating a portion of the sales ofhis COIL Novel Series to two ministries that come alongside sufferingChristians: Samaritan's Purse andVoice of theMartyrs. (There are also links on his Telbat's Tablet website if you'd like to checkout these very worthy ministries.)

Red Velvet by Sandra Byrd

2011-11-26T07:17:00.001-06:00

Red Velvet(Friends for a Season Series Book 3)

Sandra Byrd
KindleEdition-Re-Issue
OriginallyPublished Bethany House-2005
Ages 10-14
5 Stars

Red Velvet is the story of two teenage girls whose friendshipgrows in a short time under stressful conditions. Staying at the Anderson Housewhile their mothers are going through cancer treatments, Quinn and Annie meetup in school. As their friendship grows Quinn who is a Christian has acceptedthe fact of her mother's disease while Annie blanks her mother's out. Withinthe six weeks that they are both at "Planet Cancer" as it is commonlyreferred by, the girls find there are many things that they can share with eachother.

When Quinn shows her mother her journal and the list of things she wants to do,her mother also has her diaries brought to the house so Quinn can read them.Like mother like daughter they both have things to accomplish. One being a RedVelvet dress that her mother always wanted as a child, just like the dress thatwas on her doll. When Quinn found out the Annie was quite the seamstress a planwas put into place. As Annie helps Quinn with sewing can Quinn help Annie findGod?

There is so much pack into this book that it is so hard to be able to put itall in words without giving the whole story away. From Valentine Parties, tofamily secrets, to making wishes come true, to the final acceptance that noteverything can be cured. This is a beautiful story that shows the love andfaith a family shares together, a story that shows no matter what happens Godis there for you and with you, that he can heal the hurts and put families backtogether again. Even though I figured out what the ending would be it stillbrought a tear to the eye. This is a great book for teens and adults that showshow one can share their faith without being preachy.

This is a wonderful series that I think all teens should have in their library.With the advent of e-readers this series has been reissued.Available for Kindleor Nook.

Somewhere The Bells Ring by Beth Trissel

2011-11-24T13:41:00.001-06:00

SomewhereThe Bells Ring (Somewhere Series Book 3)

Beth Trissel
Wild RosePress
First FaeryRose Edition 2011
Paranormal/Romance
5 Stars

Shenandoah Valley1968.

We all havea beginning and an end. For Bailey Randolph she is not sure when hers began.Going to college With the death of herbrother in Viet Nam, Bailey got in with the hippy group, but never into drugseven though her father did not believe her. When he sends her off for theChristmas season to Maple Hill , astately Virginian plantation she is notsure how long she will be there. Built during King Georges reign, it has stood the test of time, throughthe Civil War and The Great Depression and has seen its share of sickness , death and ghosts . Or is Bailey seeingthings. When Eric returns home wounded from Viet Nam. He is shocked to seeBailey there, now all grown up , but when she mentions ghosts, Eric thinks sheis still tripping from her college days.That is until the cook talks also. Will Bailey be able to fulfill the wish ofthe ghost who in all actuality is Eric’s great uncle? Will Eric finally believe also?

This is a very captivating read that was veryhard to put down. he few characters that are in this story each have their ownstrength and personality that makes iteasy to become connected with. I especially like the cook Ella. She reminded me of the matriarch of thefamily that ruled and everyone listened. I enjoyed reading this book because ithas a little bit of everything I like. Aclean romance, a touch of suspense and paranormal. If you believe in ghosts or think people arefoolish that do, well I still think you will like this book. And as I stated at the beginning we all have a beginning andan end and Bailey was not sure where hers began. After you read the story it willmake you wonder, just where was her beginning. .Another great book Beth.

Braving The Blaze by Cindy A. Christiansen

2011-11-22T10:40:00.001-06:00

Braving TheBlaze

Cindy A.Christiansen
SweetRomance/Suspense
SecretCravings Publishing
November2011
E-Book
5 stars

Ginger Warby has two major problems on her hands. One someone is trying to kill her andthe other , she has pyrophobia. She is deathly afraid of fires so what inthe world is she doing out in the middle of one of the largest forest fires inUtah. Trying to prove a point, , if you have been in a fire you face it againor so she thought. When one cannot even strike a match to start a campfire then a forest fire is no place to be and theywill not let her leave.

Dean Harwardhopes this is his last fire to have to fight, One more year of veterinarianschool and he will have his degree and a job he has always wanted to do. Work with animals. When they made hima team leader he ended up with a motley crew, one being Ginger and another akiller , but just who. Will he be able to save Ginger throughout thisfire, protect the rest of his team andhelp put the fire out.

With Gingertrying to prove that her best friend Barrett was not killed in an accidentalfire on his farm, Dean is coming to believe her after the latest attempt on Gingers life. The firethat was set to kill her was identical to the one that killed her friend. WithDean now injured trying to save Gingercould they both make it out alive? Goingback to camp would put them in danger. Best place to go would be the helicopterdrop zone. Could they make it there and would that be the way out? When Dixie , Deans dog shows up in the middle of this fire, now Dean has another problem on his hand tryingto save Ginger Himself and his dog.

This is thefirst book that I have read of Ms .Christiansen’s and Ihave to say I enjoyed it very much. Working with a volunteer fire dept myself,I can understand Ginger’s feelings towards fire and having a fear of it. This story had just the right amount ofsuspense and romance to keep itinteresting. I found the book very hard to put down and had to keep reading tofind out just how they were going to escape off that mountain to the exciting conclusion of the book. One could not help but root for Ginger as shefinally manages to control her fear. If you are looking for a great afternoonread then I recommend Braving The Blaze.

Cindy Christiansen

Journey To Christmas-DVD

2011-11-20T17:26:00.001-06:00

Journey ToChristmas-DVD

4 SessionStudy Series-Journey Through The Holy Land
TricordMedia
Tyndale
4 Stars

Journey ToChristmas takes five different people from different backgrounds on a journey to the Holy Land to discover the truemeaning of Christmas. Being led on this journey by local scholar Nizar Shaheenthere are many questions and answers from this group from their own personal point of view dealing with Christmasand the birth of Christ. Set in a reality type -setting we follow Drew, Kim, Nazareth, Rory, and Dusty May from their landing in the Holy City throughout their journey to Bethlehem . From the culture the people andplaces , to one of the worse sandstorms to hit while they are there, sleepingin tents in the desert to riding camels and herding sheep they are immersed in the traditions and culturesof the first century Judaism.

When Iwatched this I was a little disappointed in a few things, The scenery wasbeautiful and t he trails and the pathsthat they walked through the valleys and the mountain side and I realize thingscan not be the same as they were when Christ was born and walked on this earth.I guess I was shocked to see the Christmas Trees, Decorations and Santa Claus.I think I felt a little like Drew wherehe described the wailing wall andtemples as religious walls that are built up and that Christ lives in your heart, not inthat building or wall that they are putting their prayers into. We should havea relationship with Christ- not a religious encounter My thoughts each came away with a differentoutlook. It may not have been what they were looking for and they may have adifferent outlook towards Christianity,the Birth of Christ and Christmas. I think if I had been on that journey I would have seen things in a differentperspective then trying to watch it in a movie type situation.

Acomplimentary copy of this DVP was provided by Tyndale through their bloggersreview program. A positive review was not required and the opinions expressedhere are strictly my own.

http://journeytochristmas.com

Trailer

http://www.tyndale.com/Journey-to-Christmas/9781414365084

Hope and Encouragement inYour Daily Life

2011-11-20T10:04:00.001-06:00

The LucadoInspirational Reader

Hopeand Encouragement for Your Everyday Life
MaxLucado
ThomasNelson
November2011
Inspirational
5Stars

MaxLucado is one of my all time Christian authors and it’s always a joy to readanything that he has written. The Inspirational Reader is a collection ofquotes, anecdotes, and short lessons that Mr. Lucado has compiled into this book fromout of the many books he has written. Being categorized into different subjects, the reader can look up whatever specific need they have at the time insteadof searching through the whole book. From forgiveness, compassion, the cross,hope and faith ,comfort and victory plus much more is included in this powerful 450 page book.

Ihave found that by leaving it on the table beside my chair I will reach overand pick it up and find a passage to read for that day. I also found it very useful to start my woman’s small group with. Just one littlequote or illustration sets the stage for a great morning in worship and study. If you havenever read any of Max Lucado’s books then you are in for a treat.This book willmake an excellent gift for anyone. Ilike the way the pages are heavier and not thin. I feel like it stabilizes thebook and will last much longer throughall of my page turning.

I received this book free from ThomasNelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program.I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressedare my own.

Kill Shot by Anne Patrick

2011-11-19T17:40:00.001-06:00

Kill Shot(Wounded Heroes Book 1)

Anne Patrick
DesertBreeze Publishing
November13,2011
ChristianSuspense
5 Stars

I think Ihave read every book that Ms Patrick has put out and always jump at the chanceto read her newest venture. When she told me about her newest series WoundedHeroes I jumped at the chance to read it. And as usual she has never failed toamaze me at the talent she posses withher writing skills.

KoryWagner has finally decided she has had enough of the army life. A formercombat medic she has seen some of the horrible things that go on and this has dimmed her faith in God.After 3 tours in Iraq seen her ownplatoon members killed she is finally home to stay. When her sister Callie was killed by a hit and rundriver, Kory started investigating. She knew her injuries were not consistentwith an accident. Somebody had killedher and she was determined to find out . When the PI she hired was killed in her grandfathers warehouse and theystarted taking shots at her she knew someone was after her. How close was shegetting to her sisters killer and what did the PI find out that they killed him also?

Sheriff SeanHarding has discovered more about this illusive woman and her plans to locate her sisters killer. With the casere-opened he now has two problems. Keep Kory safe as they search for the person who is after her and to guard hisheart. As romance starts to trickle between the two can they find the stalker before he gets to Sean and Kory? Who is this man and what isthe connection? Can Kory regain her faith she once had and turn back to God?

As I startedto read this book I was hooked from the very beginning. As I read I kept wonderingjust who it could be. Was it someone she served with? How was Callie connected or was this totally somethingdifferent. Right to the very end Ms. Patrick keeps you guessing and wonderingwhat is going to happen next. Excellent suspense book that will keep you turning the pages to find out just whowas after her and why. Thanks Anne forthe chance to read your newest book and including my favorite breed of dogs in the story. Zinger the GermanShepherd.

Please Help Me Lift Something Heavy-by Dr. Rick Gelinas

2011-11-18T09:15:00.001-06:00

Please HelpMe Lift Something Heavy-Thank You

(True StoriesTo Amuse and Inspire You, And Maybe Bring A Joyous Tear Or Two)
Dr. RickGelinas
Biography/AutoBiography/Memoirs
OphirPublishing Company Ltd.
February2012
5 Stars

When I wasfirst contacted by Rick Gelinas about the possibility of reviewing his book, Ifelt by the synopsis he sent the book would be quite interesting. Well I have to say I was hooked from thefirst page and found the book almostimpossible to put down .

With 354pages of memoires covering 76 years of adventure, from happy and hilarioustimes to times where some have had a tragic ending. With 33 true stories wefollow the life of Mr. Gelinas as he relates how is father married his mother , his childhood right upto the man he is today. Each story has alesson in it that anyone can learn from whether it be humorous and tragic.

It would behard for me to pick out a favorite but taking a quick pick I would have to sayit would be the story about Hammer and Champ. As an owner of both cats and dogsthese two stories really hit home. Then there is the story of killing a cow,and his famous spaghetti sauce. Everyoneis going to find a different favorite among the stories of the authors life, but for myself the wholebook is a lesson in life.

I highlyrecommend this book for everyone. You cannot go wrong. If you get one thing outof it its worth its weight. It does not have to be read in order, start at theback, in the middle or chapter by chapter. All profits from the sale of thisbook goes to assist women veterans who need help, such as a place to live, helpgetting back into the civilian life. Ihighly commend the author for this juncture.

Books For Boots

Daisy Chains by Sandra Byrd

2011-11-17T06:51:00.001-06:00

Daisy Chains(Friends for a Season Series-Book 4)

Sandra Byrd
Kindle Edition
ChristianFiction
Ages 10-14
OriginalPublisher-Bethany House- April 2006
5 Stars

In the 4^thbook in her Friends for a Season series,Daisy Chains explores the spirituallives of two friends. Fourteen year old Kylielives in a single parent environment watching over her little sister while her mother works. She hasalways been a Christian or so she thought, Just because she lived in a homewhere they occasionally attended a church and called themselves Christians didnot make her one as she soon finds out.

Fourteenyear old Rachel, raised in a Jewish home under all of the Jewish laws When her cousin Davina is about to be married, it will not be with a traditional Jewish ceremony. She has become a Christian and so disowned by her family. Theman she is to marry just happens to be Kylie’s cousin which now cements a friendship between Kylie and Rachel.

As the girlshelp plan for their part in the wedding,the idea of summer jobs they both start to wondering about the Christian life.When Rachel learned her cousin had notgiven up her Jewish ways when she became a Christian, Rachel started to thinkabout her own life and to see if there was something she was missing out on aswas Kylie. When Davina was teaching Kylie the rituals of Passover something struck Kylie that made her start toexamine her own life and wonder now if she really was a Christian. I think shecame to realize people are not bornChristians.

I reallyenjoyed this book as there is many questions posed throughout that willhelp girls like Kylie and Rachel. Many children are born intohomes that parents send them to SundaySchool each week and Church, but neverdarken the doors their self. They figurethat makes them a Christian. Or as in Rachel case. Was there something to this Jesus that Davinaspoke about? Is he truly the Messiah? So far out of the two books I have readthere has been such a powerful message portrayed. Many questions and manyanswers. The struggles that teenagers gothrough as they try to find their new found faith and live and follow Jesus. Ihighly recommend these books for all inthis age group. I feel even adults can learn a lesson or two from readingthese.

I would likethe thank the author for giving me the opportunity to read her books as sheplans to re-publish them in e-readerformat.

The Marinara Murders by Erik Hanberg

2011-11-16T13:23:00.001-06:00

The MarinaraMurders (Arthur Beautyman Mysteries)

Erik Hanberg
AmazonDigital Services
Kindle Edition
November 2011
Mystery

5 Stars

In asequel to the first book in the authors series “The Saints Go Dying” we find Det. Arthur Beautyman feeling a bitdisgraced after leaving the force in California living in his mothers basement inMinnesota. So his life took a downhill slide, he has his computer and can bequite happy where he is, or so he thinks. His mother has other plans for him,like doing what he does best, being a detective. When one of his mothers bridgepartners Julie Diamond wants to hire himto find out where her grandson had been the past three years. Three years earlierhe committed suicide or so everyone thought. His body was never found until the present. And it had just happened. Now forthe mystery where has he been for thepast 3 years and why did he not contactanyone? How did he happen to wind up dead now? With Beautyman taking the casehe has to make his mother a partner to keep her from telling Julie everything he finds out. Now the fun begins .

This was avery enjoyable read and I found veryhard to put down when I started. There is more twists and turns through the book with intrigue and suspense tokeep the reader very involved. The characters were well rounded and very easyto connect with. I enjoyed Mama. Sheproves to be pretty good at detective work after all. What started out as an innocent ploy by her son turns her into a crime solving mama. This was one ofthose books where you did not know the killer or what was going to happen onthe next page. Reading this book hasmade me want to go get the first book now in the series to read. And so with the ending of this book I feellike there will be more to the Arthur Beaytyman Mysteries or I hope there willbe. Recommended read- No sexualscenes all though hinted at and theoccasional “F” word otherwise very cleanly written.

Arthur Beautyman Mysteries

Moon River and Me by H L Zinda

2011-11-13T07:07:00.001-06:00

Moon Riverand Me

H L Zinda
Create Space
GeneralFiction
October 14, 2011
4 Stars
Available in Paperback at Amazon

When I was asked by the author if I would like toread her book I agreed as it sounded quite interesting . I have to say it was avery enjoyable read. Most teenagers have trouble coping with the events of lifeand for 19 year old Mykaela she had a double dose. With a younger sister who had Leukemia, and then her mother who developed a very rareform of cancer which eventually took her life sooner than expected, Makaela had to find somethingto do with her life. That’s when it hits her take a journey to Europe. Arrivingin Rome she meets an unlikely pair offriends. Austin who was gay and Stevewho seem to love all women.As this trio become best of friends they travelthrough Europe, Island Hop in Greece andmeet new friends and lose friends along the way . But all the partying andhaving fun does not help Makaela forget. As Makaela flashes back through the book she remembers her mother and when she gets in her dark moods thereis one that is always there for her-Austin. With Austin there to just listenMakaela finally accepts her mother’sdeath and finds herself in the progress.

I have tosay that I did enjoy this book and I feel like if Austin was not a gaycounterpart in this story that he wouldnot have had the brotherly feelings as Iwould refer to them towards Makaela. The three Main characters Makaela, Austin and Steve were very easy toconnect with , and the secondary characters led quite a bit of credence to thestory. Mark was very enjoyable and when they first met him I thought tomyself he is out to scam them but it was just the opposite. He also became a great friend. I caught myself laughing at some of theirantics when they were drinking but one particular incident comes to mind . Steve passed out in a ditchsinging while the others are looking for him. My only complaint of the book washer flashbacks. I kept losing track of whether it was before her mother got sick or after at times. All inall it was very enjoyable

Reviewed forthe Author.

Chopstick by Sandra Byrd

2011-11-11T11:58:00.001-06:00

Chopstick(Friends For A Season-Book 2)

Sandra Byrd
KindleEdition-
Christian Fiction
Age-10-14
OriginalPublisher –Bethany House July 2005
5 Stars

In today’slifestyle teenagers have friends, good friends and then there are those thatare in a cliché that only a select areallowed to be friends with. Chopsticksis a story of two girls who become close friends, but a singing contest can tear them apart. 13 year old Paige comes from a happy influential family. With 2 siblings , a stay athome mother and father with a good job, sheshould be happy right?Well not really, she feels left out . Seems mom is always doingsomething with her older sister and her brother seems to get all the attention.Can’t they just take a little time with her. Then we meet Kate thirteen yearsold, who lives just across the river from Paige. She is an only child whowould dearly love to have had a brother or sister. They do not have a lot butthey are happy. Her father works two jobs, one in the same factory as Paige’sfather and his other job, a preacher.Both girls have a love of music and over the sale of a guitar is what drawsthem together. With a mutual attraction to each other on their first meeting, ata Chinese restaurant , they use chopsticksas their team uniform. This is when they also learn that they both have signedup for a singing contest, but only one can win. The prize $400 and a chance tosing at the Thanksgiving football game. Kate wants to win to be able tobuy Christmas gifts for the Nez Percechildren and Paige who takes careof rescued and abandoned animals wants to be able to sponsor two neglected animals in a better home. This is where God and Faith come in. CanPaige and Kate keep their friendship from going under if one or the other win?As they both try and listen to God’s calling they both feel like winners.

As I readthis book I feel like God placed these two girls together fot a reason. One toteach them the power of friendship, the power of faith and that only God knows what the outcome will be,but they would be there for each other. There is some great lesson to be learned throughout this book. If you make a mistake own up to iteven though it may cost you. Not only could it tear apart a friendship it couldmake one very unhappy.. Excellent Series Recommended for all teens and adultswill enjoy them also.

Don’t miss the other two books in the series
Daisy Chains
Red Velvet.

This book has been re-released for e readers.

Shadow in Serenity by Terri Blackstock

2011-11-10T06:45:00.001-06:00

Shadow InSerenity
TerriBlackstock
Sept 27,2011
ZondervanPublishers
ChristianFiction
5 Stars

I was verypleased when asked if I would like to review Terri Blackstock’s newest book. Iunderstand that she re-wrote this book from the secular book it used to be.Never having read it before I cannot imagine how much she would have had to changeto make it into a Christian novel.

The oldsaying goes; one cannot con another con artist. Here we find two, one still inthe business of conning and the other who gave it up and became a Christian,but can still spot one a mile away. Logan Bristol lost his mother when he was 5years old. Never knowing who his father was, he was raised in a succession offoster homes until the age of 14 when he ran away and made it on his own untilhe meets Montague Shelton who teaches him the tricks of the trade whicheventually draws him in Serenity Texas. CarnySullivan grew up working the carnival circuit with her parents and get oust thebest of them. But after marriage shefound a home in Serenity Texas with her husband and son Jason. After the deathof her husband Carny stayed on with her son in a town that had welcomed her andforgave her past. Now a Christian the battle is on between Logan and Carny. Loganis there under the pretense that a big corporation wants to build an amusementpark on the outskirts of town, but Carny can see right through the act or canshe. One time he looks and acts like acon and the next time like a professional business man. That is until he isready to leave town with the money. WhenJason ends up missing after running away from home, Logan knows where to lookfor him. Is this a turning point in Logan’s life? Has Carny finally got toLogan and will he make a complete turn-around or is he still hearing the voiceof Montague in his head telling him what to do?

I havealways been a fan of Terri Blackstocks and try and get all the books in herseries. I wouldn’t really call this one to much of a suspense book but there isa touch of it there. I feel like the book shows that no matter what you did in the past God isalways there with his Grace and Redemption to save you. A book dealing with a touch ofromance and Faith. I really couldfeel the characters and as I read I felt like I was right therein the town of Serenity with Logan Carny and Jason. I feel like Jason and Jack the dog plays a big part in Logan’slife. If you like Terri Blackstock I feel you will enjoy her newest book. Recommended for all her fansand others

I would liketo thank Shelby Sledge of Shelton Interactive for giving me the chance to read Terri’s newest book. A positive review wasnot required and all opinions here are based on my own aspects of the book

Terri Blackstock

Dark Liaison by D I Telbat

2011-11-08T07:49:00.002-06:00

DarkLiaison (The Coil Series)

D.I. Telbat
October 11, 2011
KindleEdition
5Stars

Dark Liaison ( The COIL Series) by D.I. Telbat is a Christian suspense novelthat takes readers all over the world. From the US to Rome, Russia, Germany andany other country where missionaries are being persecuted. Corban Dowler who atone time was a CIA agent and throught nothing about killing a person out rightis now the head of COIL: (Commission Of International Laborers) Once Corban accepted Christ heno longer kills but renders harmlessattributes to be able to rescue Christian servants worldwide, help them get anew identity and place them elsewhere to continue their work for Christ. With his many disguises, Corbantravels worldwide and is targeted by many. Not only assassins but also agents in the CIA. Entering in some of themost dangerous environments, Corban hasan excellent team that even though they wereall trained ex military commando’s they were all Christians. Like Corban the team uses no lethal weapons to accomplishtheir mission. As the days are getting closer to the times mentioned in Danieland Revelation, Christians are being persecuted more and more and Corban andhis team are there to help defend them.

This is a very interesting book that I found veryhard to put down. The author shows us asChristians just how strong Satan and his workers are in the world. Many Christians out in the field today are being persecuted for converting the lost and others to Christianity.Even transporting Bibles to these foreign countries can land them in prison or even death. The onlyproblem I seemed to have while reading the book was who were the goodguys and who were the ones out to destroy Corban and COIL their mission, who to trust and who notto. But they all managed to cometogether at the end especially Luigi Putelli who I had a hard time trusting .Ifound the characters easy to connect with and even the secondary characterslead greatly to the plot. The plot was very engaging and will keep the reader on their toes to seewhat will happen to this team next. I would recommend this book to everyone.The author writes with compassions as towhat is happening in our world today if one would just stop and open theireyes. You can see it all around us. As the author states at the end of the book:

“Prayfor the many believers who face persecution. They need God's protection andprovision. And pray that God will use these afflicted believers to reach eventheir tormentors with the Gospel of Christ. “–D.I. Telbat

I will patiently wait for Book 2 of the Coil Series Dark Hearted due out in2012, with two more to follow. It’s always great to keep up with a series.

D I Telbat

Books Forthcoming

2011-11-07T11:07:00.001-06:00

I will be posting a series of reviews for a line of Christian Books for Teens. The author is re-releasing these books in format for e readers.
More information can be found here
Sandra Boyd
Check back often for this exciting series

best Foot Forward by Susie Kelly

2011-11-05T13:54:00.001-05:00

Best Foot Forward : From La Rochelle toLake Geneva –

Susie Kelly
Autobigoraphy/Travel
Blackbirdebooks
4 Stars

First published in UK, 2003 by Transworld. Thisedition published UK, USA, France, Germany, November 2011 by blackbirdebooks.

Would you just on a whim take off and walk halfwayacross a countryside?, a little over miles to be more exact. And could you justleave your animals in care of someone you had just met and not knowing how theanimals would react with someone new and you not there? Well this is justwhat Susie Kelly did . I think this quote from the book really hit it off rightaway for me

“Message posted to Internet:
"Free use of French farm house inPoitou-Charentes in return for caring for animals (horses, dogs, cat, parrots,geese, fish) for six weeks while owner walks across France."

Many repliedbut the one chosen was Jennifer Shields from Texas. A women her has never been to France and has never spokena word of French. Two unlikely women on a new journey in life. Jennifertraveling to a country she has never been to, putting up with a assortment of oddities, animals she has never met,strangers and trying to cope with a language she has never spoken, while Suzieis crisscrossing the countryside through places she has never seen and likelyto never even heard of and at timesgetting lost. Never having pitched a tent before or walking more than 3 milespast her home. As we follow along on the 6 week journey with her

This was quite an interesting story not only fromSusie point of view but also from Jennifer’s. Some people will really enjoythis book while others will not care for it at all. I found humor,and despair throughout as I read. I feel like the story was well told as she relates hernights sleeping in the tent, all the events and happenings along the way, thepeople she meets. I myself could not imagine walking halfway across the countryespecially by myself. Crossing mountains and valleys, through tunnels Susietakes the good with the bad and turnedthem into humorous situations. If you like stories of faith and determination ThenI feel like you will enjoy this adventure of Susie as she put her “Best FootForward”

Beta by Stephen L Brayton

2011-11-05T05:48:00.003-05:00

Beta ( AMallory Peterson Mystery

Stephen L Brayton

KindleEdition
October 2011
Mystery/Suspense

5 Stars

Beta is oneof those books that once started is very hard to put down. A suspenseful thrillerthat where the reader knows from the beginning what is happening and are waiting to find out when or how it’s going to be solved. The main character of the book MalloryPeterson-PI , has a black belt and also owns her own taekwondo school. When sheis not instructing students she is busy solving penny ante cases. This time shehas a case dropped in her lap that she is determined to solve. A eight year oldgirl is missing and her mother is frantic. As Mallory sets out to startinvestigating she ends up in more trouble herself. Discovering that more children that have gone missing, achild pornography ring, and someone out trying to get rid of her, Mallory seemsto stay one step behind Cindy McGee andher captor’s . She soon realizes there is more to this story than she has beentold. With not one but two different exciting conclusions to this book it’s anideal mystery for a rainy afternoon read.

This bookgrabbed be from the beginning and I read it in one sitting. Child pornographyis very strong in today’s world and when one hears of a child that has gone missing in their mind they pray for the best. After one reads about this it will make you stop and wonderwhat the child goes through before they find them. This is a very deep subject that the author brought out in this book and willmake one stop and wonder after they haveread it and keep a closer eye on their children. I found the book to be humorous in spots whenit came to Mallory. It seems everyone is trying to take her out and the onestrying to protect her at times are thugs .The secondary characters play a majorpart in bringing the book to life. The author is quite knowledgeable in Taekwondo and brings this out through Mallory in the book. When I reached what I thought was the conclusion ofthe book I was wrong, There ended up to betwo more exciting conclusions and ended different that I imagined . Occasional descriptions of sexual encounters but not the actual act, along with a an occasionalcurse word can be found but not enoughto make the book what I would call racy. Recommended for all who enjoy readinga mystery genre and know what happeningbut not know how it’s going to end.

Stephen L. Brayton

Abstrus by TK Rayford

2011-11-03T13:11:00.002-05:00

Abstrus: The Planet Abstrus Series(Volume 1)

T K Rayford
Create Space
September 2011
4 Stars

Abstrus is the first book in a serieswritten by T K Rayford for young adultsand those that enjoy the sci fi genre. The story revolves around Alexandriabetter known as Lexi. When her mother disappears this turns her world upside down. Lexi is what onewould call an outsider. Generally intelligent but feels she does not fitin. With reoccurring dreams she soonlearns she is not like the others and that in a way is not of this world. Thisall comes about after her mother’s disappearance and therein lies her future. Along with thepopular students at school there is another group of that seem to know allabout Lexi, who she is and what she is and they are set to get her. Will Lexi discover the truth about herself?

I am not really much of a Sci Fi fan but I have to say this book didhold my attention. At first the book remindedme more of a mystery/suspense but then just as fast it changes. The characterswere easy to connect with and I feel like the change from the mystery to Sci Fi was well orchestrated and was not a abrupt change. I believe to myunderstanding this is the authors firstbook and I feel she did a fine job with it. Recommended for Young Adults that enjoy reading the Sci Figenre.

I received this complimentary copy from the author

Breaking The Chains To Freedom by Esther Adler

2011-11-03T06:52:00.000-05:00

Breaking The Chains To Freedom
Esther Adler
Kindle Edition
October 23,2011
4 Stars

Breaking the Chains to Freedom is a challenging book. How does one break free from chains that have held them bound for so long? This then is the story of the authors life who had to grow up and assume the role of caretaker long before her time. Back in the days when your husband was picked for you by your parents Esther was born into such a family. To a mother who had been ill off and on since a teenager and a abusive religious mentally ill father. When her mother suffered a severe stroke, the role changed, Esther became the one to take care of the parent even though she was a young girl. Raised in a very strict Orthodox Jewish home,rules were made and not to be broken and these rules fell especially hard on the women.In all reality one can say Esther never had a childhood. The people in her life that should have been taking care of her were the ones she needed protection from, as the abuse from her father continued on through her teenage years
.
At 18 they had the man picked out for her to marry. After watching her mother live in an abusive marriage , Esther was bound to not have a marriage like that, but she had already seen the anger that her future husband possessed and she was building her marriage on fear and hope that love would abound between them. But that did not work and from an abusive childhood to a mentally abusive marriage, Esther finally breaks free.

This was an exceptionally powerful memoir. As one follows the author through the years as she takes her struggles in life and changes them into the positive. Everyone has problems, struggles and traumas in their daily life, but it’s how we handle them that matters. This book will help one to understand their feelings and help them move forward in life.I just touched a little bit on the subject matter in this book. One needs to read it their self to get the full impact of the life the author lived and how she drug herself from among the ashes of life to a full and productive one.

I would like to thank the author for the chance to read her story. Recommended for all women to sit down read and ponder on. Not everybody is in the situation the author was, but we all know someone who is.

Fierce Beauty by Kim Meeker

2011-10-29T08:55:00.000-05:00

Reviewed by Lynn F. for Readers Favorite
5 Stars

Fierce Beauty:Choosing To Stand For What Matters Most by Kim Meeker is a book all women should read and ponder on. Who or what do we worship? God or our designer clothes.Are we more enthused about our body on the outside or the part God sees-our inner beauty.It seems like in today’s lifestyle we start on this beauty trip early.From the time little ones are big enough for mothers to carry them on stage in beauty pageants our world has revolved around where beauty can get us in life. And then they grow up living their life as a little beauty princess. It’s time to start looking the other way and become the beautiful person you really are in Gods eye’s. As the author takes the reader through this book you will soon learn to turn aside, the things that matter to you right now, the designer shoes and clothes,the makeup, and your selfish ambitions. Now I am not saying there is anything wrong with having nice clothes and wearing makeup. Its when we get things out of order instead of in the proper perspective is what matters. It’s all about how you live, not how you look that brings out the true beauty in a woman.

I thought of myself as I read this book and knew I would never had made it far in the world of beauty. I do dress up occasionally but all my life I have been the tomboy sort and still am today. A pair of jeans a sweatshirt and cowboy boots and I feel beautiful. But the book made me stop and think. Do I put what I wear over God. Do I feel this makes me look beautiful on the outside while the inside remains ugly? There is a very strong message presented throughout this book and by using examples of her own life she encourages the women to lay down that tiara and pick up the sword. There is a part in the book that I have heard many times in different books and situations and I believe it is a beautiful illustration to this book. It’s about an Eagle who was in a beautiful cage even though he had outgrown it. When the bars were finally opened so he could go free he couldn't fly away, you see he was so attached to the beauty of that cage that he stayed. Are we like that? We have become so obsessed over our beauty that we stay locked in its prison and cannot let go to become a soldier for Christ. I recommend this book for all women to read. Its encouraging, humorous at times , a story of faith , hope, love and joy and sometimes a tear may fall. I was very well pleased with this book and will more than likely read it again.

The Shell Keeper by Robin P Nolet

2011-10-28T07:49:00.002-05:00

The ShellKeeper

Robin P.Nolet
Create Space
August 2011
5 Stars
Available at Amazon-Barnes & Noble

The Shell Keeper is novel that is sure to warm the hearts ofmany. In a humorous way three women bychance just happen to meet up byaccident. Gwen, who owns a local bakeryand as a hobby collects shells andpaints pictures of them , Claire, a real estate broker and Del, a stay at home mother in the middle of going through a divorce. When Del has a accident right in front of thebakery, Gwen and Claire go running outto find one shaken up woman behind thewheel of her crumpled van and a well busted flower pot. As they discover the truth about the accident, theytell a little white lie to get her off the hook. As time goes on the threebecome best of friends. As the plot wraps around these three we find that eachwoman has their own little hang-ups which they bring into their relationshipbut the lessons they learn from each other and the trust they build up leads them to become stronger througheverything.

From the very beginning I feel in love with this book. I really felt like I was right there andinvolved with all three of them , but I think my favorite character was Del.This is a very captivating book that I found very hard to put down, The authorreally brings the characters to life and being originally from theColorado/Wyoming area, the book broughtme back with a yearning for that area. We meet many people in out life time andwe never know when one of them may be just the one that has been place in front up , not only to have a friendship gro but to help out alongthe way. I recommend this book for all women to read. The book will soon growon you and hopefully the author writes more books like this one.

I would like to thank the author for the chance to read andreview this book. It was a delight.

The Girlfriends Guidebook By Marian Jordan

2011-10-24T07:25:00.000-05:00

TheGirlfriends Guide Book

NavigatingFemale Friendships
MarianJordan
B&HPublishings
October 15^th,2011
4 Stars

Have youever stopped to wonder just what true friendship is or how many women friendsyou have? Will they be there for you through times of trouble or happiness,will they shed a few tears for you or to put it in another perspective, would you be there tosupport them in times of their trouble or happiness. There are two types of friends, True Friends,Best Friends and Everyday Friends. But in order to be the friend, you may needto get rid of some excess baggage that you carry like jealousy, manipulation andresentment plus more. Do not be finding fault with your friends without lookingto yourself first.

Based onChristian principles one will learn God’s design for friendships. A true friendwill lay down his life for you. There is one passage that the author wrote that to me is the mainstay and meaning of thewhole book. “This journey that we call friendship is a road marked by bothmountaintops and valleys, winding curves, and confusing detours; but thejourney is worth it.” Yes friends are going to have little spats they may evenbreak apart, but a true friend will come back . A friend who was there only toget gain for their self is not a true friend. They may act the part but willrun at the first hint of trouble, talk behind your back and be absorbed intheir own egotistical life. When a girlfriend is there through thick or thinand cares more for you then herself, then you have a friend that sticks closerthan a brother.

This was anexcellent Christian based book dealing with friendships that one should reading placing their self in the role of afriend. That is the only way you can see the light in your life and your friendships. Do not think of yourself asbeing the perfect friend and all your friends are the ones with faults. Theysee your faults that you are sure you do not have.

There is somuch packed into this small book that it needs to be read and studied, not just a quick readthrough. With plenty of scriptures for the reader to look up and also a smallgroup study guide in the back of the bookI feel women will get more understanding of the friends and friendships in their lives.. With some humorous parts inthe book as we follow the author and herfriends on their pathways journey offriendship, the prayer is you will findyour own journey with the friendships that God places in front of you. I know Ilearned a lot more about friendships and discovered I have many friends but only one true friend that hasstuck like glue for 31 years. Do youhave a friend like that?

I would liketo thank the publisher for this complimentary copy. A positive review was notrequired and the opinions expressed here are strictly my own views.

Gypsy's Game by Delia Latham

2011-10-21T13:43:00.004-05:00

Reviewed for Readers Favorite
5 Stars

Gypsy’s Game by Delia Latham is the third book in her Solomon’s Gate Series. What would a man do when in a dream every night an Angel came to him and told him God wanted him to marry a certain woman. After many nights Jal Garridan agrees and this leads him to Solomon’s Gate and Gypsy Lovelle. Only problem Gypsy only wants a husband for 6 months –long enough to collect an inheritance her father left her ,even though he has been out of her life since she was four years old. When he offers to marry her having never seen her before , Destiny,owner of Solomon’s Gate wonders what he is doing. A Christian marrying a non-Christian is not one of the rules of her dating service. So the story begins in the lives of Jal and Gypsy. As Jal sets down rules for their marriage,no divorce,daily devotional time together along with church attendance,can she or let’s say will Gypsy abide by these rules. When God has his hand in any relationship it will turn out for the best.

After reading the first two books in the Solomon’s Gate Series I patiently waited for the third one to come out. With some of the same characters tha one has come to love in the first two books, we find them here also but they do not over shadow the main characters. I enjoyed reading this book very much and really connected with Gypsy. There was just something about her that one could help but wish the best for her. A woman that had a heart so harden it would not only take the love of her husband but God to melt the ice.When she meets Solomon it made me stop and think. There are angels around us constantly and how they appear to a person can be in many ways. To Gypsy he was beautiful with a glow and soft translucent wings. This goes to show that when God has a plan for one’s life, no matter what you try and do you will not be able to change it This book was so hard for me to put down I read it straight through right up to the climatic ending.. I would be hard pressed as to which of the books in this series I think is the best as they are all excellent but I think Gypsy’s Game is my favorite. I feel the book can be read as a standalone but for better understanding I feel one needs to read all three. Highly recommended for everyone.

Another Fantastic Read by Donna VanLiere

2011-10-18T06:51:00.003-05:00

TheChristmas Note
DonnaVanLiere
ThomasNelson
Christian/GeneralFiction
Oct 25^th-2011

5 Stars

TheChristmas Note is a novel about two women different in many ways are drawntogether by fate and a simple halfwritten note. Injured while serving overseas Gretchen Daniels husband transferred to a hospital in Germany .With her two small children Gretchen moves into anapartment complex to be closer to her divorced mother at this time. When she meets her nextdoor neighbor Melissa, it seems she is carrying the weight of the world on hershoulders and wants nothing to do with Gretchen and her family. When a man leaves a message for Gretchen to give to Melissa things start getting better betweenthem . The message- Melissa mother has passedaway and he wants her apartment emptied and cleaned. With Gretchen helping anote is found that Melissa actually has two siblings andGretchen entices her to seek them out. As life gets better for the two women, Melissadiscovers secrets about her family she never knew which leads to an excitingconclusion.

I wasthrilled when I seen Donna VanLiere had a new book out as I have everyone of her books. This was such anenjoyable read as with all of her books. Her books just seem to cry outwith love, faith and forgiveness . Here are two women as different as night and day and with alittle bit of trust and friendship love abounds not only with compassion but asweet Christmas miracle. The Christmas Note just like all of her otherChristmas books is very touching and uplifting. In fact I satdown and read the book in one evening. I could not put it down If you have not read any of Ms. VanLieresbooks you are in for a treat especiallyif you like stories dealing with theChristmas Season.Highly recommended.

Thiscomplimentary copy was provided by the publisher through Book Sneeze and their blogging program. A positing review wasnot required and all opinions expressed here are strictly my own.

To Have and To Hold By Traci Peterson-Judith McCoy Miller

2011-10-14T07:32:00.002-05:00

To Have andTo Hold (Book 1 Bridal Veil Series)

TraciPeterson- Judith McCoy Miller
Bethany HousePublishers
ChristianHistorical Romance
Sept 2011
5 Stars

Tracie Petersonalong with Judith McCoy Miller is afavorite of mine when It comes to aseries and when I seen this new seriesBridal Veil starting I knew I had to read it. For one thing I enjoy booksthat take place in the south either during or just after the Civil War era, sothis fit the bill perfectly.

When AudreyCunningham’s father Boyd makes asuggestion that they move back south to Bridal Veil, the plantation he grew upin, she hated to leave Pennsylvania andher job. She did agree however hoping that her father would stay off the alcoholonce he was back south. But all is not as it seems , They are about to losetheir home to back taxes that had never been paid, part of the plantation hasbeen sold to build a resort on, leaving them the home and 20 acres. When her exboss Mr. Marley from Pennsylvania as theinvestor and Marshall a top contractor from up north, Audrey has her handsfull with hired help and Aunt Thora who wants nothing to do with the Yankee’s. With someone trying to sabotage the worksite,Boyd Cunningham near death and Audrey trying to keep up with construction workersboarding at the home things get a little harried at times.

I found thisbook to be quite interesting once I got into it. It was slower to me at the beginning but thempicked up the pace. I got a littleirritated at Audrey at first when she seem to jump to conclusions aboutMarshall. Knowing his father was an alcoholic and all of his sons like him, shejust assumed without knowing that Marshall drank also .I liked Aunt Thora eventhough she was not really a relative, her mind was still fighting the war and she was going to run the Yankees backhome even if it took a shotgun to do it. I really got into the characters inthe book and even the secondary characters add to the plot. With intrigue andromance, tension and a renewal of one’sfaith. I feel this is a great start to a new series by these great authors.

I receivedthis complimentary copy from Bethany House through their bloggers reviewprogram. A positive review was not required and all opinions expressed her arestrictly my own.

Background Messed up

2011-10-10T19:28:00.002-05:00

I don't know what happened but I lost half my background. At least all my reviews and other things are still here there. Guess I'll have to figure this out tomorrow.

The Jesus Experiment by Bill Perkins

2011-10-10T14:38:00.000-05:00

TheJesus Experiment

BillPerkins
TyndalePublishers
Christian / Biblical Studies
September 2011
5Stars

After going through a small group using the Purpose Driven Life and then reading Not a Fan , But aFollower, I have found this book”the Jesus Experiment” to go right along with themperfectly. As the author takes the reader on a twelve week journey to discoverfor their self what it really means to live like Jesus. Jesus being God in human form took on the attributes just as we do, He talked to hisFather through prayer just as we ourselves do, he faced his fears and overcamethe temptations of satan. He gave hope, blessed children and one of the most difficult things for us to do Jesus did. He love difficult people and those that werehard to get along with.

As one goesthrough each chapter one will soon lean by the end of the twelve weeks how yourmind and heart will change and reflect amore Christ like attitude. With a study guideat the end of each chapter you will soon be asking, observing , evaluating andapplying the principles in each chapter to your own life. One thing you mustremember Jesus was here in human form.He could have used his divine powers at any time but instead He relied on hisFather to empower him, just as we should not lean on our own will but the willof the Father.

This wouldmake a great 12 week study for a Sunday School Class or small group meetings. For review purposes I have read the book buthave not did a complete deep reading because of time wise. I will go back now and do the weekly reading and apply this book to my own life and planon using it in my own small group. Recommended for all.

I receivedthis complimentary copy from the publisher through their blogging program. Apositive review was not required and theopinions expressed here are strictly my own.

Calico by Allison Bruning

2011-10-10T07:20:00.000-05:00

Calico (Children of the Shawnee Series-Book 1)
Allison Bruning
Available on Kindle or Paperback
5 Stars

Synopsis:
The first book in Allison Bruning’s newest series Calico, is a great historical novel filled with a touch of suspense and romance. When Calico and her sister Rose were born into a Shawnee nation, little did they know they were actually descendents of French nobility. With their father dead from smallpox and upon their mothers pending death,their Uncle Pierre takes them back to the Shawnee nation to be raised by the tribe. Only Rose chooses not to live among them when she soon finds out she has an Aunt living close by.

As Calico grows up living with her adopted parents, she has a hard time adjusting to becoming a woman. She would rather go out and hunt with the men than to stay home and learn to cook and sew. Her main problem is one man, Little Owl Quick As The Wind. They both have such an animosity towards each other and Little Owl cannot stand any white person. Chosen early in her life by the Spirit Grandmother, Calico can see visions,and speak to the spirits and a plan is set forth for Little Owl and Calico even though they do not visualize it at this time. Will Calico learn the ways of the women and eventually declare a truce with Little Owl? As the French and British are trying to locate the twins, can the two uncles Pierre and Alexander, keep Calico safe and hidden away from King George? With a promise that Alexander made to his dying sister to keep the girls safe and out of the hands of the British, can he hold up to that promise and not only keep them safe but Pierre also? While Calico was deceived by her own adopted father which one will suffer the consequences?

As a reader who loves to read anything dealing with the Native Americans I found the author to be very knowledgeable in the lives of the Shawnee. The two main characters Calico and Little own stand out on their own, but the secondary characters make the book what it is. There is just enough suspense throughout the book dealing with the British and the French to keep the reader involved right to the end. In fact I read the book in two settings. The book does contain some scenes of rape and incest but they are not in a sensual or graphic detail. Occasional violence but nothing more than would happen in any novel pertaining to war among the whites and the Indian Nations.

If you are a reader who likes the historical genre I feel like you will enjoy this series. I myself will be looking forward to the second book in the series” Rose” dealing with the twin sister.

The Betrothal: Or How I Saved Alan Edwards from 40 Years of Hell by Richard Raley

2011-10-06T08:32:00.002-05:00

5 Stars
Available on Kindle
Richard Raley

The Betrothal:Or How I Saved Alan Edwards from 40 Years of Hell by Richard Raley is a hilarious romantic comedy that I found particularlyhard to put down. The major plot of the story deals with two boys PhineasFarraday and his best friend Alan Edwards. After a two year hiatus in Chile asa missionary, Alan returns home only to call Phin and let him know he’s gettingmarried. WHAT!! Its 4 am in the morning, Alan is getting married to a girl hehas only know a week and he wants Phin to be his best man. This will never workand Phin has to put a stop to it before Alan ruins his life. One week is all Phin has and with their other friendTad, heads for St. Lake City .There he meets the family along Emily, the very domineering bride to be. When two cousins Sam and Hannah appear for the wedding , romantic thoughtsstart to spark between Phin and Sam and her sister Hannah seems to spark an interest in Alan. When Phin finally uncovers the plot of why the marriage is to take placeso fast he is trying to do everything in his power to stop the wedding. Will itwork? I am not going to be a spoil sport and let you know. You need to read thebook, but be prepared to to keep on reading and laughing all the way through it.

As the authorwrites it with Phin being the narrator of the book, one feels like they arereading an actual story. I couldn’t help but love the characters in the book.Emily, the devious queen bee or Bridezilla, Sam and Hanna, Tad and Phin justset the book off .They just seem to stand out and make the plot of the storyall the more interesting. I like the idea that it hinted at sexual encounters but that’s as far asit went. There is nothing sensual orerotic about the book, and no course language with made it a plus in my book.If you like romantic comedies then youwill thoroughly enjoy this book. Thiswould make an ideal made for TV movie.

The Rise and Fall of the Antichrist: Islam, Allah, and the Antichrist in Prophecy by Charles Massegee

2011-10-05T06:24:00.004-05:00

Reviewed by Lynn F. for Readers Favorite
5 Stars

The Rise and Fall of the Antichrist: Islam, Allah, and the Antichrist in Prophecy by Charles Massegee is is one of the best that I have read on the book of Revelation. If you are one who has always been a little doubtful about getting into the book of Revelation and trying to understand it, there is no better time than the present. From the explanation of the symbols, to what prophecies have already been fulfilled, to why we are now living in the end times, Mr. Massegee has laid it all out verse by verse, chapter by chapter. Many people are afraid of what the future holds and getting into the book of Revelation without understanding adds to that fear. With a deeper understanding of the book as the author guides you through you will come to realize there is nothing to fear as a Christian but instead to rejoice.

There are many books written on the study of Revelation and I found this to be one of the best that I have read. I feel likt the cover alone gives a chilling representation of the book of Revelation and what one can see will happen. I like the way the author has broken it down verse by verse as he explains each chapter. As he compares the churches mentioned with the churches today, the countries as then to where there location is now we can see what we are living in. As he takes an in-depth look into the religions today of Islam and Allah one can see how antichrist will be revealed. I like the way he described that where we have the Trinity , God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit, Satan also has his own trinity. This is a book that I do not recommend reading through fast, but take the time to digest what you are reading. Open your Bible up to Revelation and follow through as the author presents the scriptures. As a reader who has always love to get into the prophecy books of the Bible, this is a book that I will read and study with quite often. If you have been a Christian most of your life or a new Christian I recommend this book . It will help see where we are living at today and anytime we may hear Christ say ”Come Up Here” and be with Him as the rest of the events unfold.

Waking Hours-Great Christian Suspense

2011-10-03T05:19:00.001-05:00

Waking Hours(Book 1 of The East Salem Trilogy)

Lis Wiehl
ThomasNelson
ChristianSuspense
5 Stars

When ateenage girl is found brutally murdered it has all the scenes of a ritualistic killing. This is the scenesetting up the plot for Lis Wiehl’s first book in her newest trilogy. When alocal boy is picked up as a suspect, this brings two old friends together, Forensic psychologistDanielle Harris and former football star Tommy Gunderson. With Dani helping thelocl police and Tommy helping Dani they soon find out there are more involvedin this than first thought. With supernatural happenings going on, a group ofteenagers now all suspects and Dani having nightmares waking her up every nightat 2:13 am the reader is taken on ajourney with many twist and turns throughout. As the investigators dig further into this case the plot thickensas suspects list narrows and Dani and Tommy may be in more danger than theyrealize.

I have read the previous series by Lis Wiehl and I feellike she has made an excellent start tothis second series. The plot is suspenseful, thrilling and with that little bit of supernaturalthrown in makes it a combination one cannot resist. The supernatural aspectsare not so far out in the plot to makeit seem unreal. The characters all stand out in the book and even the secondary characters lend to theplot. Excellent book to the starting of this series and now cannot wait tillthe next one is out to be able to continue on.

I received this complimentary copy from the publisherthrough the Book-sneeze Bloggers program. No compensation was received and apositive review was not required. All thoughts and opinions are strictly my own views of the book.

The Holy Spirit by Susan Rohrer

2011-09-29T10:33:00.001-05:00

Reviewed for Readers Favorite
5 Stars

The Holy Spirit: Amazing Power For Everyday People by Susan Rohrer is a powerful book well worth reading. In many churches today there is very little teaching on the Holy Spirit,although he is part of the Trinity. No matter what stage of Christianity you are in,whether a new Christian or one that has been a Christian for the better part of your life,and are not sure of the Holy Spirit you are about to take a journey. A journey to learn more about the Holy Spirit and how he is involved in your life. From the gifts that He gives to you to learning how to hear and discern the voice of God. As a step by step guide this book will help the reader grow into a relationship with the Holy Spirit. One already has a relationship with God the father and Jesus the son, but very few realize they also need to have a relationship with the Holy Spirit. Most Christians quench the Holy Spirit without even realizing it. There are many tough questions posed with straight answers from the scriptures.

This book to me was very informative and made me stop and think. The author uses many scripture verses which is a plus to help one understand. I felt relieved when in chapter four she states many of actions preformed in Churches today are not behaviors associated with the Holy Spirit in the Bible.I do stress however that the reader first seek the wisdom of God and not just jump in and start reading and also to study the scriptures that the author uses. There are many different versions of the Bible available today that the verses may read different than the one the author used. Myself I prefer the King James and for this particular book used a Hebrew Greek Bible. I will admit that for review purposes I did not do as deep a study that would be more time consuming, but will go back into and study deeper. I find this book to be a very enlightening helpful book dealing with a subject most find difficult to embrace, especially the gifts of the Spirit. I do advise when someone starts saying to you they have this gift or that gift, test the spirit. II Thessalonians tells us Satan will try and counterfeit all nine gifts of the Holy Spirit. Miracle working is always not necessarily evidence of Gods power. With Bible and marker in hand I would recommend this book for all Christians, new and old .

Through The Portal by Justin Dennis

2011-09-27T14:24:00.001-05:00

Through ThePortal

JustinDennis
Fantasy
Available onKindle, E-book or Epub
Youththrough Adults
5 Stars

Through ThePortal is the first in a fantasy trilogy that I fill will score bigespecially with the youth. It’s thestory of two teenage boys Oliver and Jemwho have been friends for quite some time. Jem being the quiet studious onewhile Oliver is always out for a good adventure. Taking a summer school class they arefinishing up and getting ready to enter high school in the fall, when Oliver comes up with a brilliant idea late at night… he wants to go scuba diving and try out the new gear…. Sostarts the adventures of these two boys.

While divingin the lake and skimming the bottom, a hole opens up with a light shining init. Well as they say curiosity gets thebetter of one sometimes and as Oliver swims in, Jem has to follow in order to save him from whatever fate lies ahead. Appearing in a strange land they have this feeling they are no longer inWashington or even on earth for that matter. When the first person they meet tries to get them killed by leading theminto a cave , they are saved by Sierra a local farm girl. It’s through her thatthey learn about where they are and the troubles that abound in the land. Notonly is there a fire breathing dragon , but there is a Regime that has takenover the country is stealing their magical powers and refusing them to be ableto use their magic, even when its useful. When Jem, Oliver , Sierra and her sister are accused ofusing magic, they are tossed out of the kingdom. Now Jem and Oliver vow to helprestore peace to the land and get them out from under the tyrant clutches ofthe Regime. Can they do this before the dragon gets to them?

This is agreat fantasy book that I enjoyed very much. It has a great plot that produce danger through out with many twist and turns. Thecharacters are quite easy to becomeinvolved with and as you read it feelsas if you are in the midst of this amazing country or world that the boys havefallen into. There are times one will catch their selves laughing at some ofthe things that go on between Oliver and Jem.. The author has written a greatbook and I look forward to the secondpart of this trilogy.

Amanda the Angel Series by Patricia Kubus

2011-09-26T14:45:00.002-05:00

Amanda The Angel Series written byPatricia Goskowski Kubus

#1- Amanda Helps Becky Say Farewell

24 Pages
5 Stars

#2- Amanda Finds Kristy Alone

24 Pages
5 Stars

AmandaHelps Becky Say Farewell is an excellent book for every parent to read to theirchildren. Every child at one time or another in their young life will lose someone close to them through death, whether it be a close friend or their pet.This book will help them to understand how to handle their feelings when thesituation arises. The illustrations are perfect for the younger child to understandwhat the story is relating to. Recommended for all parents.

Amanda Finds Kristy Alone isthe second book in Patricia’s Amanda theAngels series. Like her first book Amanda shows up to help a little girl. WhenKristy becomes lost in a shopping mall following a lady that looks like her mother she panicswhen she finds out she is wrong. Hopping on the elevator to go to the shops upstairs she finds she has hit the wrong button.Now hitting them all she has stalled the elevator and we find one frightenedlittle girl, till Amanda shows up and eases here panic.

This is a excellent book for allparents or grandparents to read to the children. Many times children get towandering around and before long they have drifted away from the adult theywere with. As Amanda teaches Kristy what to do when she is lost as you read thestory to your young child you also can teach them what to do. With using theright kind of expression when you read even the youngest child of 3 or 4 willunderstand what is going out. This is an ideal series for all parents andgrandparents to keep up with for their child’s/grandchild’s home library.

Tate Publishing

Patricia Kubus

A Strangers Gift by Anna Schmidt

2011-09-26T06:44:00.004-05:00

Reviewed by Lynn F. for Readers Favorite
5 Stars

A Strangers Gift by Anna Schmidt isa novel about two different individuals. Hester Detlef,a Mennonite woman and John Hafner, a shunned Amish man. Hester is the daughter of a Mennonite minister, a register nurse and head of the Mennonite Disaster Service. Well past the age of what one figures a woman should be married, that does not bother Hester. She enjoys what she does and if the right man comes along then so be it. John leaving the Amish way in Ohio moved to Florida, bought his own place and will show that he can live a solitary and self sufficient life,that is until two storms race into his life. The category 4 hurricane named Hester and a Mennonite woman named Hester, who seemed like the hurricane herself. Ignoring her pleas for him to leave, John not only loses almost all he has but also sustains injuries. As Hester keeps intruding into his life, will John restore his faith not only in his religion but once again in people and especially this stranger called Hester. With both of them feeling guilty over a past can they let go and find a future.

This is the first book in the authors Women of Pinecraft Series and a very good start.I found the novel to be very well written. The author portrayed the characters as normal people, and not perfect. They had their faults, jealousy, ego’s and more, but they worked to overcome them instead of shrugging them off. As I read I found the characters were very easy to become involved with and felt like I was right there in the midst of the cleanup after the hurricane, as they all work together to help each other get back into their homes. There was no one that was any different regarding race or religion, rich or poor, fancy home or homeless that did not work together to help each other. That’s the way it should be after any disaster. I feel this is a great start to a wonderful series that takes place in Pinecraft Florida. This is a wonderful Christian novel with a very enlightened message ,” Love your neighbor as yourself”. Recommended.

Pursuing Hope By Ric DelleCave

2011-09-23T07:30:00.002-05:00

Reviewed by Lynn F. for Readers Favorite
5 Stars

Pursuing Hope-A Journey from Sorrow to Triumph by Ric DelleCave is a powerful novel based on a true story. A story of one boys survival through years of abuse, not only from his mother,but at the orphanage and later from his stepfather. The main focus of the novel is about Rick Costello and the life he lived as a child growing up under some of the worse forms of abuse not only physically but mentally as well. With a father who has cancer,an alcoholic abusive mother,the boys are placed in an orphanage for the simple reason their mother says she can’t afford to take care of them. After suffering four years of abuse in the Shady Acres Orphanage, Rick and Joe return home where Rick suffers more abuse at the hands of not only his stepfather but also his half brother. Through it all the power and strength to survive keeps him going even at the abuse of many. When Rick finally learns to lean on God, the one who he knows will never harm him and give him unconditional love only then can he finally forgive those who abused him.

I was not really prepared for what I was about to read. One reads of abuse and knows it happens daily, but this young child suffer more than most in a lifetime. Reading the book you can feel both the hate and the love penetrating from the soul of Rick. As in the beginning we find Rick and his brother Joe both being abused by their mother but once at the orphanage they are separated. We never know if Joe suffered the same abuse as Rick. With the main focus on Rick we learn Joe stays with friends instead of at home and in my mind I feel he escaped much of the abuse. Reading this book there was one thing that came to my mind, no matter what happened,how much he was abused, Rick never lost hope, even though he hated his mother in a way he still loved her through it all. This is an amazing journey through the life of Rick and how he becomes a strong person in the end with a family of his own. Based on true events it takes a strong person to bear his past to others. I do know that once you pick up this book and start reading you will not put it down till you have finished.

The Guardian By Robbie Cheuvont; Erik Reed

2011-09-18T06:40:00.003-05:00

The Guardian

Robbie Cheuvront ; Erik Reed

5 Stars

What would you do if someone came up to you and toldyou that you were from the linage of John the apostle and Godhad a purpose for you.? Yes it does sound far- fetched ,after all how can one trace back to the days of Christ,although in a way we are all descendents one way or another. This is the predicamentthat Anna Riley has found herself in. As a child believing her grandparents were dead, years later as a young women she soonlearns that she had been lied to and her grandfather was alive but barely . Ashe passes away just before she gets to him she learns she is now the keeper ofthe scroll that was give to the apostle John on the Isle of Patmos some 2000years ago. In order to possess this scroll she has to follow the letter her grandfather left her to locate it and keep it away from Satan andhis disciples who will do anything to get it from her possession and take control of the highest seat in Rome.In an exciting thrilling novel the reader is taken on a journey that covers theall nations, from North and South America and all across Europe, eventually tothe holy lands. But in the end Anna andher Guardian Jason learn the scroll hasno power in itself. The power lies in the words. To himthat has ears, let him hear .

I found this book to be quite enjoyable and even thoughit is a fictional novel there is a greatlesson on faith through the pages as one follows Anna and Jason on their journey .Itsa book that if other household duties had not needed to be done I could have sit down and read itstraight through. The book has a lot of Christian values throughout withoutgetting preachy as some do. Of course as a person who loves to study Revelationand Daniel the book held a great interest for me. I look forward to more books by these two authors.

I reviewed this book through Library Things Early ReviewersGroup.

Death Before Swine by V. K. Scott

2011-09-15T08:21:00.000-05:00

Reviewed for Readers Favorite
5 Stars

Death Before Swine by V.K. Scott is a hilarious mysterious that will keep the reader turning pages right to the end. Ben Hart left Diamond Alley Arizona after school to attend college in Oregon. Although his father wanted him to become a doctor like him, Ben had other plans. Now he has returned home with his new career in life-a high school chemistry teacher. There is only one problem, things are not going as planned.The principle is against him, test scores are fixed,the football coach has been murdered and Ben has been fired. Now he has a new assignment by the daughter of Coach Griffin-find out who killed her father.Along with Officer Rosemary Cobb, his pet pot sniffing pig Neils,Ben combs the back alleys of Diamond Alley looking for the killer. Seems everyone is out to stop Ben from going further. Who can he trust? Can he find the killer before they get away with murder? Will he ever get back to the simple life of teaching?

This book is a fast paced hard to put down mystery suspense full of twist and turns. Ben Hart is quite the character, just an everyday type of guy that is easy to become quite connected with.The author has also provided the reader with a great cast of secondary characters that really add to the plot. From a humble school teacher to a bumbling detective Ben Hart weaves a good story line as he narrates what is going on. The book is hilarious in parts and very well written. I found it to be quite entertaining and a satisfying mystery. I am looking forward to more books by this author. For all mystery lovers, grab a copy of Death Before Swine. You can’t go wrong.

Chasing The Red Car by Ellen Ruderman

2011-09-14T07:24:00.001-05:00

Chasing TheRed Car

EllenRuderman
iUniverse
GeneralFiction
November2010
272 Pages
5 Stars

Available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble and the Publisher

Chasing The Red Car is a novel following the life of the Lebowfamily as they live through the times of political unrest in the United States.The McCarthy Era. As a child Kim Lebow lived in the Bronx in what one wouldcall a dysfunctional family. Her father worked every day and her mother who inall ways was disturbed could care less about Kim and her sister. When thefamily ups and moves to California ,Kim loses all her friends and the life sheknew to a life that was to change dramatically. With life at home gettingrockier every day,the best place itseemed to be was in school to be away fromher mother. As she followed in her father's footsteps she gets involved in thepolitical scene and before long Kim has turned from a loving and caring younggirl into a political activist. As we follow the life of Kim Lebow through the1950's right up through 2007 we watch as she embarks on her political careerand an educator like her father. Through the years of political unrest,the HUAC,communists,her mother's illness and her father rarely home we find a young girlwho in all ways accumulated a lot of emotional scars.

This is a very interesting novel and I feel like the author put quite a lot ofresearch into this era before writing this novel. Chasing The Red Car willbring the reader into the lives of families that experienced fear anddestruction under McCarthyism. Anyone that lived in that time period from 1947into the 50's will relate to the content in this book. Although a novel youfeel as if you are reading a true story of this young girls life. It's a bookthat I did not read fast as to grasp all that was in it. If you enjoy readingbooks that deal with the politics then I feel you will get involved in thisbook very easily , especially if you lived in the San Fernando Valley and seenthe disposal of what they all called the Red Car-the Trolley

The Story of Solomon Bear by Phillip Laird

2011-09-12T07:30:00.000-05:00

5 Star rating
available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Smashwords

The Story of Solomon Bear by Phillip Laird is a marvelous book for both children and adults. If it does not stir your insides then read it again. This is a short story showing child like love and forgiveness. Living in a house where love is not readily accepted or showed, the author uses a girl, a teddy bear and a magical forest to show one how just a little bit of compassion and simple love can mean the world in the eyes of the receiver, a love that shows feelings can get hurt if denied. When the girl runs away and leaves her Solomon behind he goes to the other toys but they are no help as he helps them to learn the power of love. Only until he comes to the queen who finally understands as Solomon who is wise in the ideas of love tells the queen;”love needs no proof outside itself”

This is a fable that takes into account the different feelings in one’s life, loneliness, sadness, hope, but most of all love. If we have not love we have nothing. I did feel a tear coming on when Solomon felt lost without his princess. As they are once again reunited in the magical forest, they return home to what now will become a home filled with love instead of a house filled with nothing. I feel all parents should read this to their children. Not only will the child learn about love but the parents will also learn a lesson from Solomon.

Quiet River by Natasha A.Salnikova

2011-09-10T08:11:00.000-05:00

Reviewed by Lynn F. for Readers Favorite
5 Stars

Quiet River by Natasha A.Salnikova is a psychological thriller in the realm of Stephen King fashion. A novel about a small town where evil resides among friendly people.When Matt and Lisa Collins and their 4 year old son visit this little town on a vacation, Lisa fell in love with the quietness and serene beauty of it. Wanting to move there was an idea but she knew Seattle was their home,besides she is pregnant again so it would be best. Due any day with the baby they happen to get mixed up in the middle of a robbery where Lisa is harmed and loses the baby. This puts Lisa in a deep depression and drives Matt into the arms of another woman, Kristine his personal assistant.Little did he know the hold she was about to put on him even if itresorted to blackmail . Buying a house in Quiet River they move back and Matt will stay in Seattle for his business and come to be with them on the weekends. Good Idea maybe.It helps Lisa come out of her shell,but Puts Matt in a predicament with Kristine. When one thinks their worst nightmare is over think again. Danger lurks in a peaceful countryside village that has a slow quiet river running through it.

If one likes Stephen King books then you will soon get caught up in this first english novel written by the author. I found the book very hard to put down.I myself got to wondering about some of the characters throughout the book as I was reading. Are they really who they say they are? Trouby,is she really a witch,and just who is the mysterious person Kristine keeps calling? It had me scrutinizing both of them as I read to see which one of them was the evil one. It’s a novel that is so easy to get caught up in that takes the reader to a thrilling conclusion. Note: There is coarse language throughout the book for those that are offended by it. Talking with the author I discovered that I have read the unedited version of her book.

A Life Restored by Karen Baney

2011-09-08T08:10:00.000-05:00

A Life Restored (Book 3 of the Prescott Pioneers Series)

Karen Baney

September 3-2011

Christian Historical Romance

5 Stars

Being fortunate to have read the first two books in this series I was elated when the third book was available for me to read. I always find it great when I can keep up with a series and not miss a book in between and I would like to thank the author Karen Baney for letting me know that it was available.

In a Life Restored we find the characters from the other books and get a glimpse of their lives now but we are also introduced to some new characters. Caroline Larson, Adam’s younger sister and Thomas Anderson who we remember from the first book are the main characters of this book. Eighteen year old Caroline is finding life in Texas not to be what she wants. Being lonely and missing her brother Adam and his wife Julia her best friend a piece of her heart went with them to Arizona. There is only one thing to do, Move out wet with them if she can talk her father into letting her go. With the agreement of a chaperone she is allowed to move to Prescott but trouble finds her along the way and Caroline is left stranded in the desert. When Thomas Anderson comes along , he helps her the rest of the way. As sparks fly along the way to Prescott there is also an attraction simmering just below the surface. Will their sparring drive them apart or will the simmering become a flame. Will Caroline find life as she expected in Prescott and will Thomas be a part of it.

Once again the author has come up with a great novel in this series .They just keep getting better and better as she writes them. There is only one problem I find is that the books come out are too far apart but that makes for a good story line as she takes her time in the writing and does not just churn them out within months of each other. I find this book to be written in such a way that even if you have missed the other two you will still understand this book and it can be read as a standalone The art work on the covers is awesome. It’s like they are all hand painted instead of a photograph. I will wait patiently for the 4^th book to come out. Keep up the good work Karen. I love reading your books.

Bridge Of The Single Hair by Candida Pugh

2011-09-08T07:20:00.000-05:00

Bridge Of The Single Hair

Candida Pugh

Langdon Street Press

August 2011

5 Stars

Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble

Bridge of a Single Hair is a story that takes place during the 1960’s, back when the Civil Rights movement was going strong . The older generation will remember back at that time the Freedom riders, who set out for the deep south only to be met up with hatred and violence. With their efforts, the civil rights movement was transformed. This then is what this book captures.

Seventeen year old Jeri Turner who lives in Los Angeles in the early 60’s she was right in the time span of the Civil Rights movement that was sweeping the country. Leaving home she joins up with the freedom riders to fight the segregation going on in the southern states. Being involved in Non Violent protest Jeri fights for the right of others and finds herself locked up in maximum security unit of the Mississippi State Prison. Here through the air vent, Jeri listens to the voice of one prisoner, a black inmate. Upon release Jeri risks her own life to uncover the truth of this prisoner.

In her debut novel Candida Pugh, who is a former freedom rider and was arrested in Mississippi in 1961 and put in the maximum security prison tells it like it was. For those of us that lived in the era and especially the deep south understand what went on, with the prejudice and the hatred which spanned much of the United States which in a way is still prevalent today just not as strong as the 60’s movement . The author writes with a candid no holds barred novel that takes the reader back to the conditions and struggles that were at their height during that time.

Excellent book for those who remember that time and for the younger generation to learn about a time in the history that they have only heard pieces about.

Stained Glass Hearts:Seeing Life From A Broken Perspective.

2011-09-08T06:21:00.002-05:00

Stained Glass Hearts: Seeing Life from A Broken Perspective

Patsy Clairmont

Thomas Nelson

August 2011

Christian Non Fiction

4 Stars

After reading several of Patsy Clairmont’s books and she shows through this book that she does have a serious side. Many times people cover up their serious sides, their problems and life’s difficulty’s with humor and we never see the real person underneath . And that’s what this book is about, women who in one way who have suffered from difficulties, God can take the broken pieces and put them back together again. Anyone that has see how stain glass is put together, knows that the pieces are broken and scattered askew, but put it all together and what you find is one beautiful window. Just as the pieces come together to form a beautiful window, God takes the broken pieces of your life and turns you into someone beautiful . As I read this book I did find some parts that I could compare to my own life.

I feel this is a book to read on a personal level and would not be a good one to use in a women’s bible study or small group session. I did find myself not reading this as fast as I have most of her books. I had a harder time getting into it or through it and feel like for myself I did not gain as much insight spirituality as I have in some of her other books. I think the main thing I received out of the book was God is always there to pick up the broken pieces of one’s life and put it back together. Just hand them over to God and he will reshape the pieces and have one beautiful person.

I received this complimentary copy from the publisher through their Book Sneeze Bloggers program. A positive review was not require and the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.