The Muir House by Mary DeMuth

Do you ever have a childhood memory but can only remember parts of it? That's exactly what happens to Willa Muir.

Living in Seattle, Willa is determined to never return to Rockwall, Texas. She receives a letter requesting for her to return to the Muir House. She changes her mind and decides to confront her past. Her mom is on her deathbed. Maybe she has the key that will unlock the unanswered questions?

Hale Landon loves Willa and asked her to marry him. How can she say yes when the past haunts her? Willa returns to the Muir House Bed and Breakfast (formerly a funeral home). Genie Skye seems to stand at a distance. Willa has more questions. The truth is close but yet so far.

Willa runs into an old flame that has the resources to help her solve the mystery. But what does he expect in return? Maybe Willa's mom has the answers but can she really face her after what has happened? Hale appears to be silent while Willa is in Texas. Why? He put the ring on her finger? Willa pushes for answers so that she can move on in her life. But will the answer help her move forward or confuse her further?

I know that there are unanswered questions in my past. I've sought answers only to have a big stop sign shoved in front of me. It's up to me to stay comfortable behind the sign or push further to prove a point. But, at this point in my life, I'm looking ahead not back.

The question remains does Willa knock the stop sign down or not? Guess you'll have to read the book and find out. I've read all Mary DeMuth's books and she never disappoints.

Story Engineering by Larry Brooks

I was pleasantly surprised to see a writing book up for review. I snagged my copy knowing that it would be part of my home library.

This is not a book to be read in one sitting. One must digest each chapter and enjoy each bite. If you are a highlighter fan, get them ready to use.

If you have read every book under the sun and still have rejections decorating your wall, this is a book to consider. If you are a seasoned writer, this is a book to read. You will catch something that will make your writing a little bit better. One has to wonder how authors have made it without this book. It’s because the authors have written to the 6 core competencies with instinct. They may be seat of the pants writers but they still have them buried deep within. They understand. They get it.

What is the concept of your story? Character? Do you have a hero? You should. Concept and Theme are easily confused. He explains the difference. Story structure. If you do not have that, good luck getting published. A story is set of scenes. Write one scene after another. Larry Brooks explains the your writing voice is like a coat of paint. I love that. It’s not all the uncommon to want to be the next Karen Kingsbury. But, there is only one Karen. And there is only one you.

I recommend this book for both unpublished and published writers alike.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the Thomas Nelson book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are by Ann Voskamp

This book is utter amazement. Ann experiences pain but through the hardships, she finds joy. The world stopped as I read her poetic descriptions of pain, joy, and grace. Much grace.

It’s easy to see everyday tasks as mundane, boring, or downright depressing. Ann takes the everyday tasks and finds joy. She has a challenge to write down a thousand blessings. She runs with it.

To find the blessing, one must stop and notice. Notice the bubbles that gather around and through the fingers. Notice the tingling sensation. Notice. Life feels like a big to do list. Overwhelming. As I read Ann’s book, I began to see some of the blessings in my own life. Slept in on a lazy Saturday, hearing my son’s laughter, kissed by the sun, my husband’s smile, and chatted with my best friend. The blessings were right in front of me. I had to open my eyes and see them. It’s easy to focus on the negative. I have to remind myself on a constant basis to see the blessings. It’s one day at a time.

I highly recommend this book.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the Zondervan book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Soul Print by Mark Batterson

Pastor Mark is amazing! He opened my eyes to the true meaning of being created by God. He delves deep into the story of David. He interweaved the story with current times and how it applies to our lives today.

He challenges us to go through a process of self-discovery. The discovery will dig up joyful experiences and painful experiences. It’s through the pain that God can show us His greatest glory.

It’s easy to think we are but a small pebble in God’s eyes. But that’s not true. We are unable to understand the love that God has for us. It’s the same for parents. Whether we have one child or seven children. Each child is unique. As parents, we cannot imagine life without our child or children.

Mark brings up lifesymbols. Lifesymbols can be anything but they are items that remind us of a specific time or event. It can be photos, letters, or even a special rock. I have many things but very few lifesymbols. Or, I should clarify; my stuff is overwhelmed by lifesymbols. In a previous job, we had some sort of contest and it had to do with coming up with the best idea. I won the contest! I received a black shiny rock and it had best idea on it. I love that rock. It represents a time that I came up with an idea that would change our company for the better. That rock is more important to me than a book that I may have purchased and I love books. Mark has reminded me to look for those lifesymbols and to surround myself with those rather than stuff.

There is so much more to this book. I highly recommend others to pick it up and take your time. Read, digest, and discover your Soul Print.

Disclaimer: I have received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to make a positive review.

The Prophetess One: At Risk by Linda Rohrbough

Jack and Anna McClintock should be on top of the world. Jack’s almost finished with his Engineering Degree. His wife, Anna is pregnant with their first child.

Jack and Anna attend a church Couple’s Shower. Through some social interactions, Anna ends up in the room with Kristy, a preschool child. Anna is uncomfortable. Something isn’t right. Her and Jack leave the shower but Anna cannot let go of Kristy’s appearance. She believes she is going to die. Jack wants her to leave it alone. The parents will take care of her. Anna ignores Jack pleas.

A knock on the door changes the couple’s lives. Anna is arrested for the murder of young Kristy. Kristy’s family attends the same church and chaos erupts. The church family believes Anna killed her. They really do not know Anna very well. All but one person is willing to help.

This is a spiritual warfare novel. Anna has ‘visions’ and she cannot ignore them. She meets Theo, a hospital employee, who seems to have the same gift. Theo, like Anna, cannot leave it alone. Jack doesn’t trust Theo and wants her to back off. Anna is torn between Jack and Theo but ultimately does what her soul tells her to do.

I do not have the gift of prophesy so this was new territory for me. I think we all get ‘feelings’ like something is not right and usually we are right. Visions are different. It is a biblical concept but one that I’m not real familiar with. I think it would be a bittersweet gift. You have to fully rely on God. Otherwise, you may be lead astray.

If you enjoy murder mystery and spiritual warfare novels, I think you will enjoy this book.

His Other Wife by Deborah Bedford

This is the first book that I’ve read by Deborah Bedford. I am thrilled that I was given the opportunity to read this book. After reading this book, I’ve scanned through other books (in the back of this book) and I have my eye on another one that I plan to read.

Hiliary’s life is turned upside down when her husband leaves her for another woman. Her son, Seth, is set to go to college soon and she will soon be experiencing the empty nest syndrome. Maybe she depended on him too much after the divorce? Seth will protect his Mom no matter what.

Hiliary prides herself that her son can bring home his friends and they confide in her. Seth is senior and will be graduating this year. All is in place for the annual senior campout party. There may be some harmless drinking. It’s not a party sponsored by the school.

Eric, Hiliary’s ex-husband and his new wife, Pam, get wind of this party and thinks that Hiliary is making a huge mistake by allowing Seth to go. But, Hiliary trusts Seth and she’s not worried.

The campout doesn’t go as planned. An accident happens at the campground and now the two families must come together as one.

How can Hiliary possible befriend another woman who stole her husband and her life?

In life, there are many circumstances. We wish that we can change them but in some cases, it’s not going to happen. In Hiliary’s case, Eric was not going to return to her. It was a fact. Hiliary had to learn to change herself since her circumstances did not. It’s only through God’s power that one can truly change and the change will stick like superglue.

Disclaimer: This book was given to me by the author/publisher. I was not required to give a positive review.

Driven by Shellie Neumeier

Robyn is under attack like never before. She prays on school grounds with others in her youth group. An obnoxious reporter, who is determined to stop the prayers, challenges her. How dare she pray for others when they didn’t ask for it? Her Principal requests that she stops the prayer group, she refuses.

Enter Caleb and Taylor who fights for Robyn’s affection. There is a spiritual battle at play and the demon is not about to give up.

This book kind of reminded me of a play that I watched called, “Interview with the Devil.” The demon is at work and he looks for a way to mess us up. Satan whispers lies into our ears. It’s subtle enough that we believe that it’s our own thoughts not ours. It’s scary. It’s not a joke.

This story plays upon the fact that Satan is alive and well. He will do anything to trip us up. He might hurt loved ones to trick us into thinking that God doesn’t care. I admit I can easily be tripped but if we store God’s word into our heart, the damage can be minimized. I do believe that the stronger our faith and if we continue to shoo the Devil away, he will be tired of us and move on. Unfortunately, he may move onto people that we truly care about.

This is a great story and reminder that we are not alone in this world. There is an unseen battle at play.

I recommend this story to teens and youth pastors. Great book!

Note: I received a PDF copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review.

I'd Choose You by Dr. John Trent

Norbert, a sweet elephant wants to fit in but he’s having the worst school day ever! No one wants to sit by him except for Heidi the Hippo. Then the others think Heidi’s his girlfriend. What’s worse than that? He wasn’t picked for a team.

Norbert confides to his mother all of these bad events. Norbert is confident that even his mom would choose the others, because they are better and more skilled than he could ever be. But, he’s wrong.

The author reminds us that we can bless our children through touch and the words we express to our children. The concept is based on the Old Testament blessing.

God has blessed parents with children. It’s only natural that we continue the tradition by blessing our own children.

The story is a great reminder how we often compare ourselves to others. The grass looks greener on the other side. If we hop on over, we’d be stung by bees, the grass would itch, and dirt would become evident.

God didn’t make a mistake. By thinking that He did, it’s actually an insult to Him. He created us and we should thank Him and seek Him in everything that we do. It’s through Him that He will make our paths straight.

I receive a temporary free electronic copy of this book through http://www.netgalley.com I was not required to give a positive review.

unPLANNED by Abby Johnson

Abby Johnson had a plan. The plan was to help women in crisis. Her goal was to help them fight for their right to choose abortion. After all, it’s not really a baby. This DVD is an excellent documentary how God changed her heart. She became the Director of Planned Parenthood in Texas. She made the bold choice with a new determination and walked out. That bold step became a National News Story.

Abby was candid in this DVD. She had to open her heart and I’m sure it was the most difficult yet rewarding thing she has ever done. She admitted to her past mistakes. She grew up in the faith. I could only imagine the heartbrokenness of her parents when they found out that their daughter was an advocate for right-to-life debate.

Here’s a short video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZC6thU987CY

One day, Abby had the opportunity to be in the room as an abortion was being performed. It was that day that her heart changed.

For some women, it might be inconceivable how one could ever have an abortion. If you hear Abby’s story, you might change your mind. There are events that happen in one’s life. Unless you walk (literally) in their shoes, you cannot judge. You can perceive what you may or may not do in the same situation. The truth is – you do not really know how you would react to an unexpected pregnancy.

This DVD would be a great addition to a church library. I encourage you to view the DVD and share it with others. I believe it can be a healing process for some women who may have lost a baby through abortion.

On May 17th, 2011, you have a chance to learn more about Abby Johnson in a special Unite for Life webcast. uniteforlifewebcast.org/

I’m excited that Tyndale has provided me a gift certificate for the unPLANNED video! For a chance to win, please make a comment. Be sure to provide me with a link to contact you in case you are the winner. A random drawing will be held on May 18th, 2011. Winner will be notified on May 19th, 2011.

If we are Facebook Friends, you can respond to my status update today (May 6th) and that will be another way to enter!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this DVD free from the publisher through Tyndale Blog Network. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Hidden Magic of Walt Disney World by Susan Veness

Our family has been to Disney World a few times. I thought we had seen it all. Susan Veness has proved me wrong.

This book is filled with Disney Secrets and Fascinating Facts. I was a little skeptical about reading this book because of some of the negative reviews. But, I'm so happy that I ignored them and went ahead and picked this book to review.

There are maps of the parks and tips such as in Honey, I shrunk the Kids Movie Set Adventure: If you stick your hand inside the dog's nose, you might trigger a surprising reaction.

One thing that stands out in the book is that there are words that are in bold type throughout the book. It's a great way to catch your eye while reading. This book does not need to be read in sequence. Skip to your favorite Disney Park and location and see what you learn. You will be quite surprised. For one, I want to ride one of my favorite roller coasters (Thunder Mountain) and see the party.

The major parks are included in this book. If you want to skip around, look at the index and then go directly to that page.

If you are a Disney Fan, I highly recommend this book,

Disclosure: I have received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to give a positive review.

Max on Life by Max Lucado

Have you ever wanted to sit down with Max and ask him questions?

Max’s book tackles the letter H – ok, not really. However, he does delve into Hope, Hurt, Help, Him/Her, Home, Have/Have-Nots, and Hereafter.

In this book, Max answers several questions that are in the hearts of many people. He doesn’t shy from hot topics such as homosexuality, infidelity, sexual abuse, etc.

On the subject of homosexuality, he brings up a very good point. One that many people are quick to ignore. Or, at least it’s not brought up. There’s a hot topic about being gay in our society. God loves gay people. He died for them. What tends to be forgotten is God does not approve of sexual relationships outside of a heterosexual marriage. This not only applies to gays but people living together before marriage. The sin is the same.

Many topics are addressed in this book. It’s a great reference book because we all go through different things at different times. It can be used to help a friend too. If a friend is struggling, the book has a topical index in the book that you can quickly find the answer to.

If you are a writer, you are in for a little extra surprise at the end of the book in an addendum called the Write Stuff.

Need a friend? Grab a cup of tea, open up Max’s book, and enjoy the conversation. You will not regret it.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Voyage with the Vikings (AIO Imagination Station Books)

A children’s book designed for ages 7 and up reminds me of the Magic Tree House books but with a Christian theme.

Cousins, Patrick and Beth meet a mysterious inventor named Mr. Whittaker. Mr. Whittaker has sent the cousins on an adventure to find a Sunstone. The curious kids travel to the year 1000 and they meet none other than Erik the Red! Erik the Red is not happy about the new God and makes that clear to the cousins.

Patrick and Beth find themselves in situations that cannot seem possible. They arrived by the Imagination Station but where is it now? How will they find their way back? Trapped in Greenland, the kids come face to face with Erik the Red and new challenges arise. Can God help them?

The book is appropriate for grades 1-3 depending on the maturity of the child. The chapter book is easy and fun to read. The chapters are short and others a little bit longer. Just enough to take a break and jump right back in. The drawing illustrations give kids another peek at what’s happening in the story. I think this helps kids to connect with Patrick and Beth. It’s a clever way to interweave the story with how it relates to God.

Magic Tree House fans will love the Imagination Station book series.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

A Conversation with God by Alton Gansky

Jesus said that we would have trouble in this world. As Christians, we know this is true. Although we do not want to question God, we do.

I love this book and I’m keeping this one handy. It is a book about the many questions that we might ask God and the responses He might tell us in return. What’s different about this book is that not only do we hear from the character of God, we hear from other important biblical characters. Gansky is clever in using the different character voices such as Job, Abraham, Jeremiah, John the Baptist, and Peter just to name a few.

The main areas of the book include questions about God, Jesus, the Bible, Pain/Suffering, The Future, and Heaven and Hell as well as others.

I’m surprised at the negative reviews. I think this is a much needed book. I guess if you are a biblical scholar, then move on to something else. But, I think this book will bring people closer to God. Some books are so complicated that a new Christian may simply think it’s too hard. It’s not hard. It’s easier for us to discount God than vice versa. God created us in His image. He cannot help but love us. It’s the same with our children. How can you not love your child?

At the end of the book, Gansky includes notes that give biblical backup to his answers.

I think this book has the power to really understand God. For that, I’m keeping it close to my fingertips. Gansky prayed through each of these questions and answers. I pray for those who read it and may they be changed because of it.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Principle of the Path by Andy Stanley

When we are young, we think we have the entire life ahead of us. We believe by the time we turn 30, we might have that dream house, a few kids, and the perfect life. It’s a realistic dream; however, many times we do not end up where we truly want to be. If this applies to you, then I recommend this book for your personal library.

The book’s main focus is exactly what the name implies. How do you get from where you are at this very moment to the place you want to be the next day, month, or year ahead?

Andy Stanley uses biblical examples to get his point across. Need some great advice? Read the Proverbs! Andy brings up the point that successful people achieve success by heading advice from other people. We can reach our dreams. Do you want to be debt free? Then reach out to others who have achieved that dream. If you reach out to someone who has twenty credit cards and most of them are maxed out, chances are you will not reach your desired dream.

Andy Stanley gives you the secret to reaching your dreams. It may seem simple when he tells you but then if the Principle of the Path is not applied, you will not reach your goals. However, in truth, in some cases your dream may not be realized and it may have nothing to do with the choices you made in your life. Andy addresses this sensitive issue. The core truth is God has to consume every part of your being and he must be included in your decisions through prayer and study of the bible. It is only through His eyes that true clarity will come to light.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Save the Date by Jenny B. Jones

I love reading Jenny B. Jones because I am never disappointed. Her stories are funny but can be serious at the same time.

Lucy is faced with the harsh reality that funding for her non-profit organization is being pulled. Saving Grace is literally saving kids that have graduated or left the foster care system.

Lucy is willing to do anything to keep Saving Grace. Sinclair Enterprises, the glue that held their organization together is pulling the plug. Lucy takes Alex Sinclair, the heir of Sinclair Enterprises head on.

Saving Grace can be saved but at what price? Her girls are more important to her than a temporary unpleasant situation. It will give Lucy her dreams of keeping it open. But, the situation is less than appealing. She has to agree to be Alex’s fiancée until he wins bid for Congress. The trick is being able to pull it off so that it’s believable. There’s a problem. There is another one in the picture that has reappeared in Lucy’s life. Can Lucy go through with the arrangement?

Jenny’s books are good to the last drop. I highly recommend her books. Because once you read one of her books, you will go looking for others she has written.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Driven!

Join the fun and purchase your copy of DRIVEN from AMAZON.COM and receive bonus gifts from the author and her generous supporters. (Offer good 3/1/11 only.) For more information: http://bit.ly/azCgha

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Robyn loves her friends, enjoys her youth group, and looks forward to meeting cute Caleb Montague. But when a caustic news reporter challenges her school’s prayer team, Robyn must choose: defend their right to meet on campus and pray for whomever they wish or back down at the principal’s request.
Now she must learn what God wants her to do. And she had better learn fast, because there’s a supernatural enemy in town whose sole mission is to stop her—no matter the cost.

FREE E-GIFTS FROM THE AUTHOR—
• Purchase Driven TODAY and receive a personalized, signed book plate mailed directly to you plus. . .
• Free signed bookmarks to share with your friends

Married for almost 20 years, Shellie Neumeier and her husband have four wonderful children and two goofy greyhounds. After receiving her undergraduate degree in Secondary Education from the University of Wisconsin—Madison, she went on to acquire an early childhood education certificate. Shellie also served in youth, children’s, special needs and family ministries for over twenty-two years.

Today she enjoys teaching her teens how to drive and chauffeuring her preteens across the Wisconsin countryside. And once in a while, she enjoys reading a classic tale or new suspense. In addition to writing fiction, Shellie is an avid blogger on her site http://shellieneumeier.com and several others including http://Samiesisters.com, http://www.suite101.com/.com, and http://thebarndoor.net.

Sex Has a Price Tag: Discussions About Sexuality, Spirituality and Self Respect by Pam Stenzel with Crystal Kirgiss

The title of the book is perfect. There are consequences of having sex prior to marriage. Sex is good within the context of marriage; the standard that God had in mind when He created it.

The most obvious consequence of having sex outside of marriage is teenage pregnancy. When teens think of sex, most of the time that’s their biggest concern. What many fail to realize is that there are many other consequences such as STD’s and the emotional impact it can have on them.

At first I wasn’t sure if this would be a good book or not. The author doesn’t give you a warm and fuzzy feeling. But, I digress. I believe that it has the potential to save teens from the heart breaking effects of having sex outside of God’s original intention. I read the book with the teen audience in mind. If I were a teen, some of the things may be easy to pass on. After all, God created sex so why wouldn’t he want two people married or not to have sex if they truly loved each other?

When you take medicine, there are always warning labels and side effects. This book gives you those side effects. After reading them, I’m convinced that it can stop teens (or even adults) to abstain from sex until marriage.

This book is written with teens in mind. There are black and white pictures of teens and the font is big and little for a teen appeal. It is labeled as Juvenile Nonfiction.

I recommend this book to any teen. I pray that teens will read this with an open mind. It’s easy to get emotionally attached to someone. But, waiting for marriage, will be the ultimate gift one can give to a future spouse.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

iShine Bible NLT

The iShine Bible for tween boys is great! I love the leather-like feel and it’s small and compact. Boys do not want to carry around a big book. They want something that’s easy to carry and fun to use. My son has already claimed it by writing his name in the front cover.

In the beginning of the bible, there are several pages that help tweens to identify with Christ. It starts with the simple question, “What is the Bible?” It moves on to finding your identity with Jesus and growing in faith.

The next part is fun. I wish I had this type of bible when I was younger. It talks about several life issues such as complaining, teacher issues, anger, being kind, death, discouragement, family, friends, forgiveness, worship, and many other issue that are important to young people.

There are three sections that focus on something different. They are value, identity, and purpose. It’s colorful and fun to read. The best part is it gives you a link to check out and another fun way for kids to learn from others their age. It can be challenging to listen to an adult. But, when another young person can relate to your tween, there’s a good chance, they will listen.

I was pleasantly surprised upon checking out the iShine website. There is Christian tween music and videos, messages, and there is even a new Christian Broadcast Radio Show just for tweens!

I highly recommend this Bible!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Found in Translation by Roger Bruner with Kristi Rae Bruner

Kim Hartlinger had her bags packed and ready for a mission trip. She is late arriving with her crew, paying extra for her heavy bags, and her watch is wrong. If that wasn’t enough, she missed an email that detailed her upcoming trip – which changed.

She is on her way to Mexico to a village with no plumbing, electricity, or a decent place to sleep. She is a typical spoiled brat but is stubborn enough to go ahead and rough it out with the rest of them.

Kim learns that she will help rebuild homes in a remote village. Then she breaks her arm. Now what? God breaks through Kim’s heart through a precious girl named Anjelita and her mother, Rosa.

Kim reads from the Bible to the villagers in Spanish. Kim’s attempt to speak Spanish seems useless. She is not fluent in Spanish- not even close. The villagers have to correct her pronunciation. How can an entire group of evangelists go to Mexico with no Spanish to translate? Kim’s only option is to trust God.

Through a precious relationship with Anjelita, Kim learns to care for someone other than herself for a change. Kim is a big sister to Anjelita. Kim attempts to communicate with her surrogate little sister but it’s difficult for them both.

This would be a good book for someone who may want to go into missions. It is a sweet story about a young girl who had her own plans. But God intervened with His plans.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher (Barbour). I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Possession by Rene Gutteridge

This is one of the first books that I’ve read from Rene. She may be the reason why I’m under the weather. I read this book in about two days. The only time I have time to read is after bedtime. It kept me up until 3:00 am the first day.

Vance Graegan is a Police Officer and has seen his fair share of detective work. He’s ready for a fresh start and to put his family first. Vance is finally able to relax until the movers decide to hold onto their possessions for ransom. To top it off, his son, Conner is asking for his toys. Conner does not give up hope and keeps the faith going for all of them.

Possession was a smooth story with great characters, plot, dialogue, and scenes. Rene is a master wordsmith. It’s true. If a story causes sleep deprivation, it’s not easy to write.

I heard on the radio this morning that the American’s dream is to be rich. Really? I’m not sure that’s such a great dream. We live in such a materialistic society. I’m not immune but the story, Possessions, reminded me what is really important in life. Personally, I think it’s better to focus on eternal rewards than possessions that will not go with us in the box.

I highly recommend this book. Mark Mynheir, a homicide detective and author, gives her book high marks. He knows the police drill and Rene has hit it on the head.

For tonight, I’m going to get some sleep.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher (Tyndale). I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”