Don't Buy The Lie by Mark Matlock

The rest of the book title is ‘Discerning Truth in a World of Deception.’ This book tackles issues such as horoscopes, psychics, vampires, ghosts, and other ideas that can distract our attention from the truth. God’s truth.

Mark loved magic tricks and loved deceiving people through illusions. He was a junior member of the Magic Castle in Southern California at the age of 17. It’s all in fun, right?

The only problem is this continues on today. Psychics claim they can talk to your loved ones who passed on. They are able to get enough information from you to convince you that they really are contacting the dead and have a message for you. Even Hollywood plays into this role. Think about the movie, Ghost. The guy is murdered but hangs back until is girl is safe and then he moves into the light. It’s a great movie. But, it’s not reflective of scripture. Whenever you watch a movie or read a book, you must put it through the discernment filter. Mark suggests this: listen, learn, and compare it to scripture. The only way you will know the truth is by studying God’s word. Otherwise, you are opening yourselves up to deceptions that flood our world today.

Throughout the book, there are survey questions that are asked specifically to the teen crowd. For example, 21% of the teens surveyed believe that Satan is not a real being, but represents the conflict of good and evil (see page 57). That’s a big number!

It’s true that there is a hot debate among even Christians when it comes to watching movies or reading books that involve witchcraft or vampires. If you watch Twilight and it makes you want to be a vampire, research the idea of them and obsess about it, then it is keeping you from following Christ. And no, vampires do not exist so don’t look for them.

The key theme throughout the book is deception. We live in a big world of deceit. People fall for some things that are good but there are lies mixed in that keep them from the truth. Angels are good. But, they are not God. We are to worship God not Angels.

I would recommend the book for teens and youth pastors.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher (Zondervan). 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.”

Premiere by Melody Carlson

Erin and Paige both love cameras. Erin loves to be behind the camera. Paige thrives in front of the camera. Otherwise, they are total opposites. Both get their chance to be in the spotlight when they appear in teen reality show. They use that show to create exposure of their new show.

I loved the characters. They each had their distinctive characteristics. Being in the story of TV Reality was interesting. I realize that this is a work of fiction but I do believe that it’s not too far off the mark. The audience loves to see conflict and drama. The game is figuring out the true friends and enemies. Add a guy and a couple of girls to create frenemies – a person who pretends to be your friend for their own gain.

This book reminded me the Big Brother Reality show. You have characters constantly putting ‘on an act’ for the camera. You really didn’t know who was telling the truth.

There was a faith element that is subtle. I find it interesting that some reviewers are put off when they find out that the Christian faith is part of the plot. It might be helpful for reviewers to do a little bit of research on the publisher before agreeing to read and review a book. With that in mind, the faith aspect is sprinkled throughout because Erin is a Christian and it is part of her character.

This book appeared to be character driven versus plot driven. There was a plot but it felt more like a slice of life. I would recommend this book for ages 10-12.


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.”

Your Money God's Way by Amie Streater

This is a practical, no-nonsense guide to overcome 7 money myths that Christians seem to be susceptible to. Endorsed by Dave Ramsey, the creator of Financial Peace University, the book caught my eye. Because I’ve been through Dave Ramsey’s stuff, this book solidified it even more. I believe it’s a good complement to his teachings.

The book is packed with stories that show how Christians stay broke by falling for the myths. Having said that, it is not a book only for Christians. It debunks many myths that people fall for in the name of the Bible. I fell for some of these myths many years ago. I do not entertain them any longer. One such example is helping another in need. Yes, you should help them. But, at some point, they need to be weaned. They need to get that job, go to school, and at 30 – move out of the house.

In each chapter, there are sidebars (I love sidebars). They emphasize part of the book that cements the concept in your mind. There is a specific prayer at the end of each chapter specific to that topic. There is another section called God’s Way. For example, on the subject of enabling – We have to truthfully evaluate whether our assistance is helping someone or keeping that individual stuck in a cycle of dependence. Make sense? I think so! The final part of the chapter is entitled Solution Steps, steps that can be taken immediately to help the situation today.

I would recommend this book to a person who is struggling with the Christian viewpoint of money. It’s not rocket science but it helps another person realize when they are being trapped in their beliefs about money, and fighting to get out.

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.”

Unlocked by Karen Kingsbury

Karen Kingsbury has penned a wonderful novel about being locked in the world of autism.

As with all Karen’s novels, she never disappoints. She tackled autism head on. This is not an easy subject to write on.

Holden Harris is locked into the world of autism. He is unable to communicate. He is an easy target and becomes bullied.

Ella appears to have it all including having Jake as her boyfriend. She is shocked to see him bully Holden. She takes a stand. Ella is drawn to Holden but doesn’t know why. It’s in his eyes, no doubt. He connects with her. Why?

It turns out that Ella and Holden were best friends as young children. They danced and sang together and the parents thought they would go to the prom one day. Autism and a lack of understanding took that chance away. Will Ella and Holden ever dance again as they once did?

Although, Holden is unable to communicate, Karen does a wonderful job in showing Holden’s thoughts. Kids with autism are no different than any of us. They love others more easily. They are kind to everyone. They do not judge.

Holden can hear the music. Music may be the key to unlocking his autism. Do you hear the music? Unless we stop and take the time to listen, we never will.


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.”

Pursuit of Justice by DiAnn Mills

Bella Jordan, a Special Agent is on a mission to find out who is responsible for murders in West Texas.

Carr Sullivan leaves his anger past behind him. The murder evidence is aiming right toward him. He claims his innocence.

As Bella comes closer to the truth, the attraction with the number one suspect becomes evident. The past that she left behind is catching up with her. Is she falling in love with someone who is capable of murder?

People are murdered in their search for the Spider Rock Treasure. Is there really a treasure hidden beneath West Texas or is it a rumor? Greed is deadly to those who wish to explore.

Pursuit of Justice is a great story and a mystery of trying to figure out who really is responsible for the deaths. It has the emotional impact of romance, fear of the unknown, and finding out what life is really about.

It makes you think, “Where do my treasures lie?” and greed is evident among the key factors in this story.

If you like murder mystery with a Christian theme, this is a book to read.

Personal Commentary:

How many times do you hear someone wishing they had more money or winning the lottery? It’s not greed necessarily. I believe it’s to get away from the mundane of living the same story each day. Day after day, many people desire for more money so they can quit their jobs, travel, and live life. Is that what Jesus would want? I think life can be better. Take the focus off yourself and focus on others. Do a random act of kindness for another. Be there for when your friend calls. Read to your kids. Our life is short on this side. We will die, let’s store up our treasures in heaven.

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.”

Deceit by Brandilyn Collins

Brandilyn is known for her Seatbelt Suspense.

What would you do if your best friend was murdered and the killer remained free? Joanne Weeks is in this position and there is one person who can help her nail the guy.

Baxter Jackson is a respected member of the church. When Joanne blames Baxter for Linda’s murder, there are repercussions. No one believes her. Joanne is more determined than ever to find Melissa, the sixteen-year old foster child that the Baxter’s took in.

For the first time ever, Melissa Harkoff is treated like gold. She finally has escaped her past of brokenness. The Baxter’s have saved her.

The book delves into the concept of Deceit. Is it acceptable to lie in order to help others? Is some deceit more sinful than others? Is a little white lie ok? Does it depend on the situation? The mere definition of deceit is fraud and dishonesty.

Brandilyn takes you on a Roller Coaster ride. You want to get off but you resist. You keep turning the pages. The story is a mystery. It’s fun to try and figure it all out. What really happened in the Baxter household?


I had a 100 pages left and had to get up early for work. It didn’t matter. I stayed up until past midnight because I kept saying a few more pages. Then I decided to ignore the clock and finish the book. Was it worth it? Without a shadow of a doubt, what’s sleep anyway?



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.”

So Over It by Stephanie Morrill

The long anticipated third book of the reinvention of Skylar Hoyt does not disappoint.

Have you ever wanted to move somewhere no one knows you? I know that I have. Skylar has her chance to move to Hawaii with her grandparents. It is perfect. It’s a great place to live, beautiful weather, and a chance to make anew.

The journey begins. Skylar is staying in Hawaii for the summer. She meets new friends and a cute guy to boot. Her family is with her but her old boyfriend is not. What could be better? The time comes for her family to leave. She must make a final decision to stay in Hawaii or leave. She can leave the old life behind. But, then there is a part of the old life that she still wants to hold onto. Skylar realizes that you cannot have it both ways.

The theme of the book is forgiveness. It’s difficult to forgive someone and ultimately confront another person if necessary to heal. To forgive oneself can seem virtually impossible. I’m not perfect and I’ve made mistakes. Big ones. I can be forgiven but I can never take away my part. Only Jesus can take it away from me. I have to be willing to hand it over.

If you haven’t read the first two books, I recommend reading them to get the full effect. Each book can be a stand-alone novel. Stephanie provides enough information that you would not be lost.

I’m looking forward to future novels by Stephanie Morrill.

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.”