Book Review : When God Sees Your Tears

When God Sees Your Tears
He Knows You, He Hears You, He Sees You
Cindi McMenamin
Harvest House Publishers

Cindi McMenamin points out that God does see our tears, when we go through loss or pain he is not blind to what we are going through.She points out that it is human nature for us to try to figure out a purpose for our pain. 

Whether dealing with the loss of a loved one, or your own failing health, or any loss or pain for that matter When God Sees Your Tears will bring you much needed comfort and remind you that even through the pain there is always Hope in Jesus.

I give this book five out of five stars...

Happy Reading..

 

Book Review: Dear Nobody

Dear Nobody
The True Diary of Mary RoseGillian McCain, Legs McNeil

SOURCEBOOKS Fire
Copyright 2013

Mary Rose  journal opens with her arrest.  She was carrying a forty ounce beer on her and reeked of liquor she also has to contend with her Mothers abusive boyfriend who threatens to kill her.  Her Mother seems to go from one abusive relationship toanother not thinking of how it effects her kids.  After Mary gets an infection similar to TB, she is confined to a wheelchair due to the damage it caused her hips.

After she heals enough to get out of the wheelchair she finds herself angry and bitter.

Mary Rose writes about her addiction to Alcohol, and the times she spends in a residential care for Alcholics, as well as how easily she falls back into that lifestyle.   She also battles an addiction to heroin and her life is spiraling out of control.  She can't seem to keep the demons at bay.

We learn of Mary Roses battle with her health, she has Cystic Fibrosis which makes the drugs and Alcohol even more dangerous and she struggles eith being gang raped.

This book is based on a true story, a life and death a truggle against Cystic Fibrosis and drugs.  

I would recommend this book to those fifteen and up due to the subject matters and the strong language.

I give this book four out of five stars.

Happy Reading

Book Review: Love Without End

Love Without End
Robin Lee Hatcher
Thomas Nelson--FICTION
Thomas Nelson
Pub Date   Nov 18 2014

Kimberly has hit bottom, she tries to avoid going to church with her friend but finally her friend stopped taking no for an answer.  Kimberly would rather feel anger and bitterness than explore her faith-life.

The story transitions from Kimberlys story back to Anna's story, paralleling teo different generations...Anna came to the ranch just months after her parents died in 1944.

Anna must face that first Christmas without her parents.   This story will take us into the lives of two women, the younger Kimberly bitter and angry about all she lost and Anna who has also suffered loss.  

Kimberly slowly finds her life coming together and falling in love with Chett.

This is a wonderful novel of second chances of love, of hope and of faith...

I give this book five out ov five stars...

Happy Reading

I Took A Risk Its Paying off

Monday, December 22, 2014

I took a Risk its Paying off

I did it I took a risk and joined the new social network tsu.co about five weeks ago, I wanted to network with other writers and Christians and networking I am.  The support is great and I appreciate everything that this place offers some people tend to ignore the no spam or no innappropriate material rule but that is what the block and unfriend buttons are for right? 

No Tsu.co is not perfect but then again neither am I so it is a nice fit...It has allowed me to carry my networking with others to a new level and I am able to share my faith and my books which I love.

You have to be invited by someone who is already a member to Tsu, so I am inviting my blog readers by giving you my short link...
https://www.tsu.co/Michellekidwell

Remember an Author has to have the ability to grow his or her network to make an impact right?

I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year. ..

Love in Christ

Book Review : Peticoat Detective

Petticoat Detective
Margaret Brownley
Barbour Publishing,
Inc.Shiloh Run Press
Pub Date   Dec 1 2014

Get ready to be transported back to 1883 Kansas.

Pinkerton Operative Amy has worked undercover as everything from a southern Belle to ajilted schoolteacher even a secretary but now she is undercover as a Prostitute, where she meets Tom Colton for the first time.

Roses Undercover name is Amy and she is working for the Pinkerton Agency trying to find a killer a murderer who killed a Madam named Rose. 

Going Undercover means getting to know these women and she learns that many of them came to the Brothel out of desperation. 

Amy is a woman ahead of her time working as a private detective in Male dominated 1880s Kansas but it was the fact that her sister went missing drove her to help others.

Being a woman undervover detective does have its advantages because no one believes a woman can be a detective anyway and she can do her sleuthing without much problem.

Happy Reading

I give this book five out of five stars...

Book Review: Murder Tightly Knit

Murder Tightly Knit
Vannetta Chapman
Zondervan Fiction
Zondervan
Pub Date   Dec 16 2014

Owen is not ready to on give up his cell phone or give himself to the Amish church yet must to his sisters dismay.

Owen is found murdered on a trail murdered with a crossbow.  An Amish woman named Marry is questioned.

As it begins to look more and more like the Killer was Amish some are finding it harder and harder to believe that this c ould be the case.  The Amish are a peaceful people and don't believe in violence.  Still the evidence points to someone in the community. 

If you like Amish fiction and mysteries then Murder Tightly Knit is definitely one book you will want to read...This is a novel that will leave you guessing..

I give this novel five out of five Stars...

Happy Reading

Book Review: Love At Mistletoe Inn

Love at Mistletoe Inn
A December Wedding Story
Cindy Kirk
Zondervan Fiction
November. 25.2014

Hope got married for the first time when she was eighteen.    Ten years later she has about given up on making her marriage work because John left town before th r ink on the license was even dry but now he is moving back and she knows they need to make an effort to make their marriage work.

Hope pushes John a way at firdt but soon her Aunt who just opened up the Mistletoe Inn is about to give Hope and John a proper cwedding.

In the hustle and bustle of Christmas preperations Cindy Kirks Novella Love at Mistletoe Inn is a wonderful romantic escape. 

Five out of five Stars. ..

Happy Reading

Book Review:Andrew Murray Destined to Serve

Andrew Murray: Destined to Serve
Olea Nel
Calirvaux House

In this biographical novel we are taken back to the time of Andrew Murray and get a glimpse into his life and ministry..

We learn of the early years of Andrew Murrays ministry,  and the work he did the souls he reached. We can see the reality of his calling in this biographical novel both the joys the exhaustion and even the mistakes another words we are given a realistic look into the lives of Christians called to serve.

I hope my fellow readers enjoy this walk through Andrew Murrays life as much as I did...

I give this biographical novel five out of five Stars...

Happy Reading

Book Review: I Want God

I Want God
Forever Changed by the Revival of Your Soul
Lisa Whittle
Harvest House Publishers

October.01.2014

Lisa Whittle starts off with telling us of the night she gave her life to Christ and reminding us Wanting God starts with remembering him.  She starts off with this because she reminds the readers remembering our first encounter with Christ is important. 

I Want God is a must read for all of those who wish to have a deeper desire for God who want to go back to the Want we felt when we gave our heart to Christ when we had our first encounter with Christ. 

We are reminded too that God does not give those who long to be popular or known a pass we all have to keep our allegiance with God first no matter how popular we are.

We are also reminded that the relationship between us and God is not something we get to customize. 

I Want God is definitelh a book that needs to be read, and needs to be taken for Heart.

Five Out of Five Stars

Happy Reading

Book Review:When Camels Fly

When Camels Fly
NLB Horton
RidgeRoute Press
Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA)
Pub Date   May 12 2014

When Camels Fly is a book that just seems to have action and suspense flying off the pages.

When Maggie's Mother Grace is kidnapped by Rebels Maggie finds herself going through the Israeli dessert to rescue her Mother which she does but yhey are not out of danger the Rebels are still after them.

If you are looking for adventure and mystery you will finf both in When Camels Fly.   Kidnapping,  murder, escape, running through a dessert to escape this book has it all.

When Camels Fly is a book that is full of action from the first page to the last.

I give When Camels Fly five out of five stars...

Happy Reading. ..

Book Review:Christmas In the Smokies

Christmas in the Smokies
B.J Robinson
December.12. 2014

B.J Robinson does not disappoint with Christmas In the Smokies. 

Sierra was supposed to be a June bride and then it is postponed to Christmas Eve but soon she realizes she does not want to Marry Gillman he is a mean man who treats everyone poorly. 

Sierra left town to get a way from Gillman bit he tracks her down and demands they go ahead with the wedding, but she won't take his bullying anymore.

Landon does his best to protect Sierra a woman he has grown to love but Gillman does not want to give up and he is determined to get Sierra back whether she wants him too or not.

Will Sierra ever be free to love Landon or will Gillman always be lurking in the shadows?

If you are looking for a good Christmas Novella to read then I highly recommend Christmas in the Smokies by B.J Robinson. ..

Five out of five Stars

Happy Reading and Merry Christmas. .

Book Review: Buying Samir

Buying Samir
Kimberly Rae
BJU Press
Pub Date   Oct 21 2014

Jasmina leaves the safety she found with the missionaries to find her brother Samir but finding him proves to be dangerous because now Samir works for thevery traffickers he despised.

Buying Samir brings up the very real issue of human trafficking not only in India where this book takes place but all over the world.  Jasmina finds herselfin very real danger when she finds her brother and discovers what he has become.

This book does not only deal with the horrors of human trafficking and the slave trade but it also shows the readers that even in the darkest of moments the love of Christ can and does redeem.

I give this book five out of five Stars.

Happy Reading

Book Review:Fight Back with Joy

Fight Back With Joy
Celebrate More. Regret Less. Stare Down Your Greatest Fears
Margaret Feinberg
Worthy Publishing
Worthy Publishing
Pub Date   Jan 6 2015

Margaret Feinberg decided that when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in her thirties she was going to Fight Back With Joy. 

Instead of hiding away from the world which was what she felt like doing Margaret surrounded herself with caring people and the outpouring of love helped to reach to her.

This book reminds us too of the importance of having people in our lives that will walk with us in the darkness and help us to see the light.

Fight Back With Joy will help us to Fight through the difficult times in life.

I Recommend this book to anyone going through a difficult time.

Five out of five Stars...

Happy Reading. ..

Book Review: Thou Shall

Thou Shall
Freedom to Strip Away the "Nots" and Discover What God Really Wants
Jamie Snyder
David C Cook
David C. Cook
Pub Date   Sep 1 2014

We are reminded in this book that there is a relationship between our understanding of God and our level of faith.  We are reminded too that God's commands are there to help us live life not prevent us from doing so.

Jamie Snyder shows us that perhaps instead of focusing on what God does not want us to do (that is not to say we break his commands) we focus more on b what the Lord wants us to do.  

The reflect and discuss questions at the end of a chapter make this for a great group study book and the questions also make for good journalling excercises.

The author reminds us that we as the church are called to bring the world hope.

If you are looking for a book to help you grow in your Christian walk then Jamie Snyder's Thou Shall is a must read...

Happy Reading

Book Review: Heart Of A Lioness

Heart of a Lioness
Sacrifice, Courage and Relentless Love Among the Children of Uganda
Irene Gleeson
Authentic Media Inc.
Pub Date   Sep 5 2014

Irene Gleeson had a rough start to life a traumatic childhood and she was pregnant by the age of sixteen.

In 1990 Irene Gleeson and her husband feels the calling to go help kids in war torn Uganda.  By then Schools are closed due to the raging wars and Joseph Kony is kidnapping kids and turning them into Child Soldiers and Sex Slaves.

By the time both there beachhouse and home are sold people realize there is no turning back, Irene and Jack Gleeson are going to Africa.

In Heart of a Lioness we see everyone the struggles that Irene and her husband Jack faced in Uganda bug you also see the miracles they saw Children healed bg the power of prayer and with Jesuses touch.

Irene and Jacks marriage does not survive Uganda it proves to be to much for Jack and he divorces Irene but she continues on in Uganda educating a nd feeding these children amidst the Hell like conditions that often surround them.

Irene continues her work in Uganda until 2012 when she is diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer but even then she continues speaking out and raising awareness until her death in 2013...

I give this book five out of five Stars...

Happy Reading  

Book Review: Deceived

Deceived A Novel
Irene Hannon
Revell
Pub Date   Oct 7 2014

Katies husband and four year old Son go missing.  Three years later she sees a boy that reminds her of her Son but everyone believes her Son is dead, along with his Father.  They were believed to have drowned in a boating accident while they were fishing, but her Sons body was never found.  One Friday morning three years after her Son goes missing she believes she sees him at a local mall, but is the boy really her Son?  If so where had he been?

Could Kate's Son have been kidnapped?  Was his Father murdered or had that all been an escape rouse?  

Soon it is starting to look like it is pointing to the fact that Kate's Son is dead, but she does not believe that to be the case and is not easily convinced.  She is certain the little boy she saw at the mall wzs her son despite all the evidence of his death.

When and if Kate is proven right will it mean more danger for her and her Son?  Will they make it through this?

This Novel will take you on an emotional roller coaster ride it will tug at your heart and not let go.  

Five out of five Stars...

Happy Reading

Book Review: Andi Under Pressure

Andi Under Pressure

Amanda Flower

Copyright 2014

Zonderkidz-Books

Zonderkidz

Andi Under Pressure is a good book for middle grade children who like Nancy Drew style mysteries.  Like Nancy Drew Andi always seems to be in the midst of solving a mystery.

Andi is at summer camp the summer before seventh grade, and Summer Camp seems to be full of mystery and adventure.

So if you have an upper elementary school age child take them on an adventure with Andi Under Pressure.

Happy Reading Kids...

Book Review: A November Bride

A November Bride
Beth Vogt
Zondervan Fiction

Pub Date   Oct 28 2014

This book opens up with Sadie having her star moment but soon Ken her former boyfriend texts her and tells her he met someone else.  He breaks up with her via text message.  Sadie tries to get lost in her work, her passion cooking.

Sadie does have interest in Erik a man she has known for years, but although they are both unattached she is afraid to ask him out.  When they finally start going out Sadie finds it hard to admit that she and Eric are dating.

Erik proposes seventeen years after they met and the wedding is Set for Seventeen days after the proposal.  They were best friends since middle school but did not fall in love for Seventeen years.

I give this sweet romance five out of five stars...

Happy reading

Book Review: A September Bride

A September Bride
Kathryn Springer
Zondervan Fiction
Pub Date   May 5 2014

This Novella opens up with Anne Price getting pulled over for a broken brake light and tail pipe and the silver spoons scattered all over her car does not seem to help the situation once she is pulled over.  Annie soon discovers the officer is the Son of her friend Lorna.  When the Son shows up for dinner the same night Anne is pulled over she finds herself turning red with embarrassment.

Soon Jesse and Anne are paired in a wedding reenactment Anne acting as bride and Jesse the groom the thought leaves Anne feeling a little flustered inside.

Annes past soon comes to haunt her when things start getting uncovered but will that stop a budding relationship between her and Jesse or will they find there happily ever after?

Five out of five Stars

Happy Reading...

Book Review: An August Bride

An August Bride
Debra Clopton
Zondervan Fiction
Zondervan
Pub Date   May 1 2014

Kelsey hates wedding but because she loves her cousin she agrees to take part in her wedding despite knowing her family will  try to play match maker.  When a handsome cowboy named Brent Corbin saves Kelsey from drowning she finds herself trying to fight that attraction.  

Kelly keeps trying to deny her feelings but soon she realizes that though she may not have thought she was looking for a handsome cowboy to fall for, she has found one and soon she finds herself reaching out to him.

I give this novella five out of five stars.

Happy Reading. ..

Book Review: I Can't Begin to Tell You

I Can't Begin to Tell You
Elizabeth Buchan
Penguin Books (UK)Michael Joseph
Pub Date   Aug 28 2014

This book opens up in November of 1942 in a Danish Estate.  Kay Eberstern was British born but finds herself caught up in Hitlers war.  Kay has some affections for Germany because her children have German blood flowing in them but she does not agree with Hitlers evil ways nor does she understand why they are being sold out to the Germans.

I Can't Begin to Tell You is the story of survival through World War Two of a young woman refusing to give into the way of life an evil man Hitler. This is a story about a time and place in history that was not only deadly for the Jewish but for anyone who dared to point out how wrong Hitler was or for anyone who did not fit his idea of a so called perfect Aryan life was deadly for anyone who dared to be difficult. 

I Can't Begin to Tell You is a very well written and researched novel giving us an intense read that made me feel as if I was looking in on the characters and feeling what they felt.  

Five out of five stars...

Book Review: The Secret Place

The Secret Place
Tana French
PENGUIN GROUP
Viking
Viking Adult
Pub Date   Sep 2 2014

This book opens with the police looking into a cold case the murder of a sixteen year old boy.  This is the story of a young boys murder, several girls are questioned about who put a card on Chris Harpers grave claiming to know who killed him.  Digging into the case of Chris Harpers murder they discover that he may have raped a girl.  The young woman named Selena was raped several weeks before Chris was murdered.  Deeper investigation shows that Selena was not raped by Chris, but could have someone thought she was and killed Chris in order to protect her?

If you like novels that leave you guessing until the very end then you will want to read Tana French's The Secret Place, this is a book geared towards adults though and do to the language and subject matter that needs to be kept in mind.

I give this novel four out of five stars.

Happy Reading...

Book Review: Buttermilk Sky

Buttermilk Sky
Jan Watson
Tyndale House Publishers
Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.
Pub Date   Oct 1 2014

Mazy Pelfery moves away from her strict upbringing in the  Kentucky mountains to a more genteel life in Lexington.  Mazy discovers life in Lexington is not as easy as she suspected.  When Mazy gets sick with food poisoning she discovers that there are those that really do care as she is nursed back to health.

Mazy finds herself falling in love with a man named Loyal.  Mazy soon discovers that there are those who are dealing with tougher isssues and when a friend and her Father were evicted Mazy wants to help.  Will Mazy discover who she is and how to help others?

This is the story of a young woman trying to make it on her own in the early part of the twentieth century a young woman who is determined to build a life for herself.  

I give this novel five out of five stars...

Happy Reading...

Book Review: Breathing Room

Breathing Room
Letting Go So You Can Fully Live
Leeana Tankersley
Revell

Pub Date   Oct 7 2014

I believe Breathing Room is a must read book because not only does it show us the importance of letting go but it reminds us that if we try to pretend our pain does not exist then that allows it to control us instead of the other way around.  We are reminded too that if we let the little things build up we are likely to explode.

We are reminded too not to make everything so urgent, even if we feel the need too, because not eveything we want to make urgent is.  This book also reminds us not to  give up on our dreams.  We are also encouraged to find a room of our own to write, to pray or do what stirs our Soul.

I give Breathing room five out of five stars...

Happy Reading...

Book Review: 50 Women Every Christian Should Know

50 Women Every Christian Should Know
Michelle DeRusha Baker
Books Baker Books
Pub Date   Sep 16 2014

This book gives you a glimpse into the lives of fifty great Christian woman, and shows us a bit of how they impacted the Christian faith.  This is the brief stories of women who were willing to stand up for what they believed in some even risking their lives.

If you like reading true life stories of Women who made a difference in the Christian faith everyone from Hildegard to Ruth Bell Graham this is a book you will want to add to your library.

I give this book five out of five stars...

Happy Reading...

Book Review: To Everything There Is A Season

To Everything There is a Season
Lauraine Snelling
Bethany House
Bethany House Publishers
Pub Date   Oct 21 2014

It's 1905 and female doctors are almost unheard of.  Astrid is a woman ahead of her time.  Astrid even finds herself taking care of a seriously injured bank robber.  Soon a friendship begins forming between Astrid and Manny the former bank robber.

To Everything There Is A Season is the story of a woman trying to make a name for herself as a doctor at a time when female doctors were almost unheard of.

If you love historical fiction that shows people making a difference then I highly recommend To Everything There is a Season will transport you back to 1905 and give you a look into the life of Astrid Bjorklund.

I give this novel Five out of Five Stars.

Happy Reading.

Book Review: Trading Secrets

Trading Secrets
Melody Carlson
Revell
Pub Date   Oct 21 2014

Micah is a teenage girl who has become pen pals with an Amish pen pal who happens to be a boy.  She turns to her best friend Lizzie for help and advise.  Zach does not know that Micah is a girl though.  When she goes to meet her pen pal in person she even disguses herself as a teenage boy.  But when Zach discovers she's been lying to him he wants nothing to do with her.

Michah and Zach had been pen pals since the fifth grade and he even helped her her through her Mother's death.  Micah wants to remain friends with Zach because he has helped her through so much.  He eventually does forgive her for her lies.  Zach is well educated for an Amish boy because he loves to read and is not sure if he wants to stay in the Amish faith or go in the way of the Englisch.  When Zach comes to visit her in her Englisch world, and soon he starts to discover who he is and what he wants in life, part of that is coming to the realization that he needs to move on from his old pen pal.

If you like coming of age stories with a positive message then Trading Secrets is a novel you will enjoy.

I give this novel five out of five stars.

Happy Reading...

Book Review: A Matter of Heart

A Matter of Heart
Tracie Peterson
Bethany House
Bethany House Publishers
Pub Date   Oct 7 2014

Jessica Altheron was the most beautiful the most favored but its 1896 and she is still unmarried, perhaps she is selfish like others have said and perhaps they pity her the very people who use to feel a little jealous of her.  Daniel Parker takes her to a Church Social but Daniel Parker is the son of a rancher and though handsome he plans to remain a rancher and Jessica is not sure that is what she wants in fact she is not sure what she wants.

This is a story of a young woman trying to discover who she is and she is also a woman trying to find love, a woman whose not sure what love is or what she wants.  This is also the story of a woman learning to let God take control.  A story of faith, and of love.

I give this novel five out of five Stars...

Happy Reading...

Book Review : A Light In The Wilderness

A Light In the Wilderness
A Novel

Jane Kirkpatrick

Revell

Revell

Pub Date Sep 2 2014


Letitia is a former slave who was freed in 1842.  She soon learns that in Missouri freed blacks are often despised.  She plans on going to Oregon where she can be given a new start.  Before settling in Oregon Letitia marries a white man.  They cannot tell others that they are married though. 

  Letitia and Davey find themselves having to keep watch over their stuff because it seems that someone is after their prized milking cow.  When Davey ends up replacing the nearly empty flour barrell instead of filling the old one he inadvertently looses Letitias freedom papers.

Before they make it to Oregon and get settled in Letitia gives birth to a daughter.  But soon they are settling into Life in Oregon and for the first time Letititia truly starts feeling free.  Soon Letitia makes friends with a Native American woman and her young Son.

This is a stry of a former slave who slowly learns that true freedom is also found when you can find joy within yourselves, it is a story of struggles but also of overcoming sgainst all odds.  

I give this novel five out of five Stars...

Happy Reading...

Book Review:All I Really Want

All I Really Want

Readings for a Modern Christmas

Quinn G. Caldwell

Abingdon Press

Abingdon Press

Pub Date Oct 7 2014


All I Really Want is a book written for modern Christians the book is short yet well done and it serves it purpose.  The book is a bit strong in points and the author has no quarms with stating their opinions.   The book may be short but it is well written.  This book may not be for everyone but if you are looking fora book for Modern Day Christians then this is a book you may enjoy.


This book is infact in a sense is a Christmas book and the author encourages us to do something kind for someone who needs a helping hand 


I give this book four out of five stars.


Happy reading...

Book Review: Slowing Time

Slowing Time
Seeing the Sacred Outside Your Kitchen Door
Barbara Mahany
Abingdon Press
Abingdon Press
Pub Date   Oct 7 2014

Slowing Time reminds us to take the time to enjoy the beauty atound us.  It is a reminder to sit back and count your blessings.  Slowing Time encourages us to take at least a few minutes of quiet time a day.  If you are looking for a book that will encourage you to savor life one that will make you appreciate Gods blessings even more because we are now taking stock of them.


If you are looking for a good books that allows for you to take time out and appreciate the little things in life then 
Slowing Time is a book I would recommend.


Five out of five stars.


Happy reading...

Book Review : Not A Silent Night

Not a Silent Night
Mary Looks Back to Bethlehem
Adam Hamilton
Abingdon Press
Abingdon Press

Pub Date   Sep 16 2014

This is the Storyof Jesus’s birth told by Mary. This book will give you a look at how Mary must have felt when Jesus was born the joy and the sorrow knowing that he would eventually die for mankind's Sins.

I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to get an idea of how Mary must have felt when Jesus was born.

I give this book five out of five stars. 

Happy Reading! !!

Tolkien

Tolkien How an Obscure Oxford Professor Wrote The Hobbit and Became the Most Beloved Author of the Century
Devin BrownAbingdon Press
Abingdon Press
Pub Date   Oct 21 2014

This is a brief but well written biography of Tolkien.   It shows how he was able to go from an obscure Oxford Professor to one of the best loved authors of all time.

I love the way this book allows us to get a glimpse into Tolkiens life and his work.  We learn The Hobbit may have been published by accident but it would become a happy accident for Fans of the Hobbit. 

I would recommend that if you are a fan of Tolkien you should read this book to learn more about how he got his start.

Five out of five Stars for a well written biography

Book Review: Storm

Storm

Thomas Nelson--CHILDREN'S

Thomas Nelson

Evan Angler

Copyright 2013

If you like Science fiction stories with a message then Storm is a book you are sure to enjoy.  And if you like end time stories this is a novel you are sure to enjoy.

This novel has a bit of everything from end time prophecies.

This novel shows us a society where people are marked and watched a society where mysterious fevers end in death.  

I give this novel five out of five stars. 

Happy Reading! !!

Book Review: The Jew Named Jesus

 
The Jew Named Jesus
Discover the Man and His Message
Rebekah Simon-Peter

Copyright 2013

This book shows us the importance of having a good relationship between Christians and Jews and it dispels many myths of the relationships.

We are encouraged to move passed the ideas that Christians and Jews hate one another, it will dispel common misconceptions of how Jews and Christians always hate each other.  Granted Christians and Jews have had there problems in the past but we are reminded in this book that Jesus was in fact a Jew.

I give this book five out of five Stars.

Book Review: Solomon's Song

Solomon's Song
Roberta Kells Dorr
Moody Publishers
River North

1989, 2014

Solomon's Song will take you back to the days of Solomon. This book shows us a King who in many ways thought ahead of his time.

Solomon's Song takes us into the life of the King and the poet Solomon.

When Solomon goes to Egypt before becoming King he faces temptation  like he has never faced before.

If you are a fan of Biblically based historical fiction as I am than Solomon's Song is a book I would recommend you add to your library.

This book has a little bit of everything, Kings and Queens, true love, faith and history.  

I give Solomon's Song five out of five stars.

Happy Reading! !!

Book Review: Hacked

Hacked

Amazon

Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) Members' Titles

Copyright 2013

A reporter finds himself in danger when he is reporting on a series of muggings and lootings.

If you enjoy books that deal with Hacks, Private Eyes and Billionaire s with evil intentions then Hacked is a book you will want to read.

I would recommend this book to 18 and over because of the strong language and subject matter.

Four out of Five Stars...

Book Review: Trial Trauma

Trial Trauma
Healthy Spirituality for Empowered Living
Dr. Sharon Mancha
Wilhelmina Publications
Bookmasters, Inc

2013

This is a book about getting throughthe trials and traumas we face in life with the gift of our Faith.

The author reminds us that there is a difference between trial trauma and trial drama.    We are also reminded that part of getting passed the Trauma Drama involves forgiving ourselves for the mistakes we made as well as forgiving others.

If you are going through a difficult time and need to be reminded that with Faith you can get through then Trial  Trauma is a book you need to read.

I give this book Five out of Five Stars.

Book Review:The Cure for the Perfect Life

The Cure for the "Perfect" Life
12 Ways to Stop Trying Harder and Start Living Braver
Kathi Lipp and Cheri Gregory
Harvest House Publishers
Pub Date   Aug 1 2014

This is a wonderful book that reminds us that the idea of a perfect Christian is nonsense.  In fact a line early in the book puts it this way Perfectionism is not Christian it's crazy.

We are reminded that perfectionism is not the same as striving ty o do better or grow closer to Christ those are things that we should do but perfectionism takes things to a whole new level.

This book reminds us that we do not have to be perfect but it gives us tips to improve ourselves tobe better people and better Christians.  

I give this book five out of five stars...

Book Review: Walking In the Spirit

Walking in the Spirit
A Study Through Galatians 5
Steve Pettit BJU Press
Pub Date   Sep 3 2014

If you are looking for a good study guide for Galatians 5 look forward to Walking in the Spirit A Study through Galatians 5.

I would recommend this study book on Galatians 5 for a small group study.  

I give this book five out of five stars...

Book Review: The Photographer

The Photographer
Barbara Steiner
Open Road Integrated Media
Open Road Media Teen & Tween
Pub Date   Aug 5 2014

Cynthia and her best friend Megan are Seniors in High School.  Derrick is the new boy who creeps Megan out yet he insists on taking her to a school dance.

Megan has been doing strange things like answering the phone before it rings.

Soon a reoccurring dream is shaking Megans sleep and making her feel that her best friend is in danger.

Megan starts to realize that Derrick may be the cause of a mysterious sickness going around, and she discovers that Derrick seems to take a sick pleasure intaking pictures of his sick and weakened Mother.

I think this novel will have an appear to high school aged girls the subject matter is intriguing and the plot is well thought out. 

Five out of five stars.

Happy Reading. ..

Book Review: Louisiana Sunset

Louisiana Sunset (Love Grows in Mysterious ways on the Bayou Series, Book I) 
BJ Robinson
August.2014

Once again B. J Robinson pulls  us into a story and does not let go.

This is a story of love that spans two continents and a war, Dessert Storm.

Lily Mae learns that America has gone to war when she is at the grocery store on January 16.1991.  She worries when she realizes Levi is going to have to go to serve during Dessert Storm. 

Louisiana Sunset takes you from Louisiana to the dessert in Iraq. This book takes us into the lives of Lily Mae and Levi who must face the very real possibility of Levi getting killed at war, but at the same time they are able to make there relationship work despite the continents and the war.

I give this novel five out of five Stars.

Happy Reading!!!!

Book Review: Miracles At the Higher Ground Cafe

 Miracle at the Higher Grounds Café
Max LucadoThomas Nelson--FICTION
Pub Date   Aug 27 2014

This novel opens with Chelsea reopening her Moms cafe, Miracle At The Higher Grounds Cafe.  She is trying to build a good life for herself and her son and daughter.  

Max Lucado pens a novel that delves into the lives and the struggles of one family who is trying to make it emotionally,  Spiritually and financially. 

This book takes us on a journey of new beginnings and the struggles that can so easily be dealt when someone starts over, butit is also a story of determination,  forgiveness and redemption.   I give Miracle At Higher Grounds Café five out of five stars.

Happy Reading. ..

Book Review: Mom Made Us Write This In The Summer

Mom Made Us Write This In The Summer
Ali Maier
Erie Island Media
Copyright 2013

This is a wonderful book for upper Elementary School aged Children.  Its written in theform of a journal told by Sister and brother Maggie and Max.  The journals are assigned by their Mom over the summer.  Neither one of them are  to thrilled about this assignment at first.

Children will enjoy getting a glimpse into Maggie and Max'es Summer it is written in both a fun and humorous way that both boys and girls will love.

I give this book Five out off five stars.

Happy Reading Kids.

Book Review: Princess More Tears to Cry

Princess: More Tears to Cry
Jean Sasson
August.28.2014

Once again I find myself drawn to Princess Sultana Al'Sauds story just as I was in Princess: A Life Behind the Veil In Saudi Arabia.   We learn that  even in 2014 every Saudi female is born into a rigidly male society where a male  will be her guardian. No woman in Saudi can escape their guardians mantle.

This is a powerful book dealing with oppression but this book and its author are not without hope because it shows us that there are woman that are trying to make a difference that are fighting for the rights that many woman take for granted.

If you want to get a new appreciation for the things as we as woman born in freedom take for granted. 

I give this powerful book five out of five stars.

Book Review: Wildlife Young Adult

Wildlife
Fiona Wood
Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Poppy
Pub Date   Sep 16 2014

Wildlife is a powerful coming of age story due to the subject matter and the intensity of some of the book I would recommend it for high school aged teens.

This powerful young adult novel deals with death in a very realistic way.  This novel takes its readers on a journey of one young girls grief, and the fact that it does so without flowering it up makes it a very powerful book.

Due to the serious subject matters and sometimes graphic imagery in this book though I recommend it for high school aged teens.

I give this book four out of five Stars.

Happy reading. ..

Book Review: Nowhere to Turn

Nowhere to Turn

Lynette Easton

Revell

Pub Date   Sep 2 2014

Danielle is about to run away from her abusive husband.  Jenny Cartee helped her come up with an escape plan so Danielle anx her eleven year old son can escape the abuse.

Despite Dani trying to escape and get herself and her Son to safety.

This is a novel that will leave you on the edge of your seat.  If you are looking for a good suspenseful read one that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

If you love edge of your seat suspense with a powerful plot line then Nowhere to Turn is a must read.

I give Nowhere to Turn five out of five stars...

Book Review: Good Morning Mr. Mandela

Good Morning, Mr. Mandela

Zelda la Grange

PENGUIN GROUP Viking

Viking Adult

Pub Date   Jun 24 2014

The author of this memoir Zelda was born a white AFRIKANNER in 1970 in Johannesburg Africa.  She worked  closely with Nelson Mandela by the time she was in her early 30s.   Growing Up Zelda was raised around the strong prejudiced of the colored people around her.

In 1994 Zelda began working for President Nelson Mandela, but for several months she did not even see him.

We learn in this book how in 2001 Nelson Mandelas health took a turn for the worse because it was that year he was diagnosed with prostate cancer.

If you are interested at an in depth look into Nelson Mandelas life in this biography of sorts.  

I give this book Five out of five stars...

Happy Reading. ..

Book Review: Writing Great Books For Young Adults

Writing Great Books for Young Adults Everything You Need to Know, from Crafting the Idea to Getting Published Regina Brooks

SOURCEBOOKS (non-fiction)

Sourcebooks

Pub Date   Oct 1 2014

One powerful piece of advise mentioned in the introduction is to learn from criticism and not to let it weigh you down.  We can't let criticism stop us from living our dreams.  Brooks reminds us too that we should remdmber writing for young adults is not easy and ghat we should not write in a condescending way.

We are reminded too that we should not try to tell to many stories in the same novel.

We are also reminded of the different type of setting in this book.  1.) Realistic. 2.) Fantasy ad 3.) Blended a combination of the authors imagination and realistic.  

If you plan on writing for the young adult market Writing Great Books For Young Adults will definitely be a worthwhile investment.  

Five out of five stars...

Happy Reading and Happy Writing...

Book Review: The Personal Touch

The Personal Touch
Caroline B. Cooney

Open Road Integrated Media

Open Road Media Teen & Tween

Pub Date   Oct 29 2013

Sunny is not exactly thrilled with her neighbors every June to Labor day especially the Son Tim.  Soon she finds herself saying things she regrets.  Soon Sunny and everyone else begins noticing positive changes in Tim.  Sunny is not the only one noticing changes in Tim though and soon her friends are asking her to set her up with him.

Soon Sunny finds herself falling in love with the very boy she never dreamed she would ever fall in love with,  The young man she used to find annoying and obnoxious. 

The Personal Touch is a  coming of age novel that reminds us that love can sometimes sneak up on ud when we least expect it. 

Book Review : I'm Not Your Other Half

I'm Not Your Other Half
A Cooney Classic Romance
Caroline B Cooney

Fraser is a high schhol girl with an unusal name and a crush on a peer of hers named Michael.  She also has a best friend named Annie but before long Fraser is spending all her spare time with Michael always doing the things he wants to do.

When a little girl Fraser knows is seriously hurt Fraser begins to see Michael's true charscter when he is more concerned about missing a date than he is about a little girl whose fighting for her life.

Even her best friend seems to take Michael's side though and calks Fraser selfish when she breaks up with him.

This is a story of two yojng people Michael and Fraser discovering who they are and learning that some people are better off as friend's.

I give this book five out of five stars.

Happy Reading. ..