Glittering Promises by Lisa T. Bergren

Glittering Promises
by Lisa T. Bergren
Grand Tour series, Book 3
Christian Fiction / Historical / Romance / Suspense
Available October 2013
David C. Cook
464 pages

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Read an excerpt

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About the Book

Lisa T. Bergren's popular Grand Tour series concludes as Cora Kensington journeys farther into Italy, wrestles with a terrible ultimatum from her father, and comes to terms with the Father who will never fail her.

America's newest heiress must decide if her potential fortune is rationale enough to give up her freedom and all that God is leading her toward. And when her newly-discovered siblings are threatened with ruin, her quandary deepens. Then as Cora nears Rome, more journalists are track the news story of the decade-"Copper Cora," the rags-to-riches girl-and want to know more about her family and the men vying for her attention. Meanwhile, a charming Italian countess decides that if Cora isn't going to claim Will's heart, she might just try...

My Thoughts

After trekking across Europe with the Kensington and Morgan clans for three whole books, I can safely say that this is one of my favorite series ... ever! Glittering Promises was a great conclusion!!!

Cora's angst as she labored over her decision between two suitors was so real. While some readers have been frustrated by the continuation of the love triangle, I thought it was more about the fact that she realized it was such a huge decision. She didn't want to mess up. I can remember feeling the same way at different times in my life (though not about my husband!), so it really resonated with me.

One of my favorite aspects of the entire book was how the siblings were finally figuring out how to be family. Cora seemed to come into her own a bit more, and at various times, I could really see how they embraced her more fully. While that was somewhat expected, there were quite a few things that were NOT. I obviously don't want to ruin the story for anyone, but there were several moments that I went, "WHAT?! I definitely didn't THAT coming!"

I was so pleased that the ending to this series was as wonderful as it was. I'm definitely not ready for the series to be over, though, and would love to read more about these families if the author ever chooses to write more! [5 stars]

Note: These books are not stand alone books and should be read in the order in which they were written: Glamorous Illusions, Grave Consequences, and Glittering Promises.

I received a free copy of this book from David C. Cook & Litfuse Publicity in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Author

Lisa T. Bergren is the award-winning author of over thirty-five books, with more than 2 million copies sold. A former publishing executive, Lisa now divides her time between writing, editing, parenting three children with her husband, Tim, and dreaming of her next trip to Italy. She lives in Colorado Springs.

Lisa T. Bergren Online

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An Open Heart by Harry Kraus

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
An Open Heart
by
Harry Kraus

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An Open Heart
by Harry Kraus
Christian Fiction / Contemporary
Available June 2013
David C. Cook Publishers
448 pages

Buy a copy
Read an excerpt
Find out what others think

About the Book
Their Messages—From Beyond the Grave—Might Destroy Him

They hover between life and death, their hearts stopped on the surgery table. And the messages Dr. Jace Rawlings’ open-heart surgery patients bring back from beyond the grave cannot be ignored. For they predict the deaths of people around him, and point a finger of suspicion straight at him.

It thrusts Jace into a firestorm of controversy and danger. A maeltsrom blown by the darker winds of political intrigue and spiritual warfare. And the forces working against him will do anything to stop him from uncovering a truth they will kill to hide. He’d come to Kenya to establish a heart-surgery program for the poor. But what he will find in that place where he grew up will put everything at risk–his marriage, his career . . . his life.

My Thoughts
To be honest, I haven't finished reading this book yet. I've been in a terrible "reading slump" for the past two weeks and sort of took a break altogether. However, I'm about 150 pages in and it's pretty interesting so far. Jace (the main character) is not the most likeable guy, but I'm definitely interested enough in the story to keep reading. I'm hoping that he's going to eventually come around!

I plan to pick this book back up in the next week or two and will update to let you know my thoughts!

I received a free copy of this book from David C. Cook Publishers via CFBA in exchange for my fair and honest review.

A Word from the Author
I started writing my first novel during my last year of surgery training at UK. I was a chief resident, and started writing Stainless Steal Hearts in a call room at the Veteran's Administration Hospital in Lexington. It was a crazy time to write! I had a very demanding schedule, often spending days and nights in the hospital. I had two sons at that time, and I recognized the wisdom in my wife's urging: "Now doesn't seem the right time for this dream."

My experience as a writer is far from typical. Having received my formal training in biology and chemistry and medicine, my only preparation for a writing career was a love for reading. The longest thing I'd written before my first novel was a term paper in undergraduate school. My first novel was accepted by Crossway Books and published in 1994, and it wasn't until after I had FOUR published novels that I even opened a book of instruction about the craft of writing fiction. This is not what I recommend to others! Yes, I was successful, but I was bending the "rules" without knowing it. I had a natural talent for plotting, but I realize my initial success may have stunted my growth as a writer. I'd have made faster progress if I'd have gone to the fiction teachers sooner.

I have three sons: Joel, Evan, and Samuel. Look closely in all of my books and you'll see them there. My lovely wife, Kris, provides the basic composition for all those beautiful, athletic, dedicated women in my novels.

Harry Kraus Online

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And the Journey Continues ...

Grave Consequences
by Lisa T. Bergren
Grand Tour series, Book 2
Christian Fiction / Historical / Suspense / Romance
Available March 2013
David C. Cook
448 pages

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About the Book
For Cora Kensington, the journey of a lifetime takes unexpected twists. And her future—her very life—depends on the decisions she’ll make at each crossroad. As her European tour with her newfound family takes her through Austria, France, and Italy, an unseen enemy trails close behind. Meanwhile, a forbidden love continues to claim her heart, putting everyone’s plans in danger.

And as Cora stays one step ahead of it all, what might need the most protection is her own heart, torn between the dramatic pursuit of a dashing Frenchman and a man who has been quietly staking claim to her affections all along. Love has dangers all its own. She must escape the bonds of the past and discover the faith to make the right choices, as each one has grave consequences.

My Thoughts
The first book in the Grand Tour series made my "best of" list for 2012, so I was really looking forward to reading Grave Consequences to see how the story continued. I was excited to pick up where Book 1 left off (so you'll definitely want/need to read them in order) and continue on their Grand Tour. One of the best parts of this book to me was the journey through France, Switzerland, Austria, and Italy. Lisa's descriptions of these incredible places have definitely given me a bit of travel fever! Now if only I could figure out how to travel back in time 100 years to see it as Cora did!

Cora really began to come into her own in this book. It felt like she was more comfortable with herself and with her new siblings and their friends. A few times, I saw that she was really struggling with what her life would be like after the Grand Tour was over and she returned home. The love triangle that she finds herself in was definitely interesting. I really liked one of the two guys (though the other one is a great guy too), but I'm not sure that she's going to choose him in the end.

Grave Consequences was full of suspense and intrigue as the traveling party is still being followed and harassed by strange men. As bad things continued to happen, I loved seeing how the different characters responded. It made for an interesting adventure!

The only drawback is that we'll have to wait until this fall to read the conclusion to this incredible series. I can't wait to find out who Cora falls in love with and how their story ends (or begins :)! [5 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from David C. Cook & Litfuse Publicity in exchange for my fair and honest review.

Buy a copy

Read an excerpt

Find out what others think 

About the Author
Lisa T. Bergren is the award-winning author of over thirty-five books, with more than 2 million copies sold. A former publishing executive, Lisa now divides her time between writing, editing, parenting three children with her husband, Tim, and dreaming of her next trip to Italy. She lives in Colorado Springs.

Lisa T. Bergren Online

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Relentless Pursuit by Kathy Herman

Relentless Pursuit
by Kathy Hearman
Secrets of Roux River series, Book 3
Christian Fiction / Suspense
Available May 2012
David C. Cook
400 pages

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About the Book
Rich with the Cajun flavors of south Louisiana, this final book in the Secrets of Roux River Bayou Series is a story of what it means to find true peace in an uncertain world.

Sax Landry left home at seventeen to escape his father’s abuse, leaving his mother and sister to fend for themselves. Now, twenty-eight years later, both parents are dead, and guilt compels him to find his sister and make peace.  His search leads to Les Barbes, Louisiana, where authorities fear a bio-terrorist has injected cyanide into juice cartons and fresh produce at the grocery store.  People are dead. It’s not safe. Sax stays, fearing death less than living another day without peace. A divine appointment is about to change all that-forever.

My Thoughts
Relentless Pursuit by Kathy Herman was a solid conclusion to the Secrets of Roux River series. One of my favorite aspects of this series has been how the characters from previous books play such vital roles in subsequent ones. They’re not just fringe characters making spotty appearances. Instead, I felt like I really got to know them and saw how they grew, changed, and struggled throughout the entire series. Because of this, I would definitely recommend reading them in order (although you could probably catch up pretty quickly if you didn’t.)

Kathy is fairly unique in that she combines emotional family plots with tight, fast-paced suspense. The mystery around the cyanide poisoning was incredibly fascinating. Herman is a wonderful suspense writer, and I was thoroughly impressed with the intensity of this “case.” And because of this, I will definitely be on the lookout for more suspense from Kathy Herman in the future.

At times, I was annoyed by the repetitive nature of some of the conversations. I realize that the author was using this technique to show that the characters were really struggling with a particular issue, but at times it felt like the same conversation was merely pasted in multiple places in the book.

Overall, I truly enjoyed Kathy Herman’s latest offering. I’m a little sad to leave Les Barbes behind, but I know that wherever’s next will be just as good! [4 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from David C. Cook via Net Galley in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Author
Best-selling suspense novelist Kathy Herman worked for the Christian Booksellers Association in Colorado Springs, then married a retailer and moved to Texas, where she managed the children's department in the family's Christian bookstore. She has written fourteen novels, including Tested by Fire and All Things Hidden, since retiring from the retail business. Kathy and her husband, Paul, have three grown children and five grandchildren and live in Tyler, Texas. They also enjoy world travel, deep-sea fishing, and bird watching—often tied into one grand adventure!

Kathy Herman Online

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Blog Tour | A Hearbeat Away by Harry Kraus

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

A Heartbeat Away

by

Harry Kraus

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About the Book
A Heartbeat Away
by Harry Kraus
Christian Fiction / Contemporary / Suspense
Available September 2012
David C. Cook
384 pages

When a brilliant surgeon undergoes a heart transplant, her life transforms as she begins experiencing memories of a murder she never witnessed. The residents worship her. Nurses step out of her way. Her colleagues respect and sometimes even fear her. But surgeon Tori Taylor never expected to end up on this side of the operating table. Now she has a new heart. This life that was formerly controlled and predictable is now chaotic. Dr. Taylor had famously protected herself from love or commitment, but her walls are beginning to crumble. And strangest of all, memories surface that will take her on a journey out of the operating room and into a murder investigation. Where there once was a heart of stone, there is a heart of flesh. And there is no going back.

My Thoughts
After reading the blurb on the back cover of Harry Kraus’s latest release, I wasn’t sure what to think. I mean, the idea of a transplant recipient receiving memories from their donor? Weird! I wasn’t sure what to think or if I would even like the book. After reading it, though, I still think the idea of transplanted memories is bizarre, but Harry Kraus’s A Heartbeat Away was incredible!

The book was intriguing from the very start. A surgeon about to undergo a heart transplant, the nurses and hospital staff obviously holding grudges against her, and the running internal commentary of the main character was great! Kraus writes with such detail, and his surgical background gives us as readers a unique perspective on the medical aspects of the story.

While I didn’t fall in love with Tori right off the bat, I definitely came around by the end. I loved how her heart transplant not only affected her physically but emotionally and spiritually as well. Phin was a great character as well! And their chemistry was perfect. I loved that we got to see some of Phin’s struggle as well.

The suspense was intense at times and moved along at a great pace. Fast enough to give me a thrill, while allowing time for other story lines to get their due as well. At times there was so much going on that I wasn’t sure how it would all resolve, but Krauss brought it around to a conclusion at just the right time, and I was even surprised by part of the ending. :)

This was a great blend of suspense, romance, and so much more. I can’t believe I’ve not read Harry Kraus before now, but I will definitely be reading more of his work in the future! [4.5 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from David C. Cook and CFBA in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Author

Harry Kraus, M.D. is a board-certified surgeon, medical missionary to East Africa, and accomplished writer of both non-fiction and fiction. Medical realism and gripping plotlines distinguish his writing, as he gets most of his ideas with a scalpel in hand. Dr. Kraus resides in Kenya with his wife Kris and the youngest of his three sons.

Harry Kraus Online

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Secrets of Roux River Bayou by Kathy Herman

False Pretenses
by Kathy Herman
Secrets of Roux River Bayou series, Book 1
Christian Fiction / Contemporary / Suspense
Available March 2011
David C. Cook
384 pages

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About the Book

Zoe Broussard loves the life she and her husband Pierce have built in her beloved Louisiana hometown-especially their popular brasserie Zoe B's, to which folks drive all the way from Lafayette for lunch or dinner. It seems like heaven.

But it's about to become hell. A series of anonymous notes is making her life a misery-because Zoe has a secret so terrible it could leave the business in shambles and tear her marriage apart. Can she find the courage to face her past?

The first in a new series from Kathy Herman, False Pretenses is a gripping suspense novel that leaves a lasting impression about honesty and accountability.

My Thoughts
False Pretenses was a great introduction to Kathy Herman. The suspense was fairly intense, and I was constantly wondering what was going to happen next. Plus, the plot moved along quickly, which really kept me flipping the pages. Zoe Broussard was a great main character, and I really enjoyed getting to know her. The author did a great job writing about such a unique and iconic location as New Orleans, but I wasn't crazy about the Cajun dialect. I know the author was using it to give a realistic flair to the dialogue, but if I'm unfamiliar with the words, I don't like having to stop and start to check the glossary. Other than that, though, I really did love the book, and it whet my appetite for the next novel in the series! [4 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from David C. Cook in exchange for my fair and honest review.

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Dangerous Mercy

by Kathy Herman

Secrets of Roux River Bayou series, Book 2

Christian Fiction / Contemporary / Suspense

Available October 2011

David C. Cook

416 pages

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About the Book

When elderly Adele Woodmore moves to Les Barbes to be near the Broussards, she wants nothing more than a comfortable, quiet life. Employing men from Father Vince's halfway house for the homeless to do odd jobs, she takes an interest in their lives and is delighted to be helping them get back on their feet.

Now a series of murders has cast a pall over the town and one of Adele's handymen becomes a person of interest to the police. But Adele continues to show the young men kindness and care, in spite of her friends' concern. This time that kindness could kill her.

My Thoughts
Dangerous Mercy was just as good as I hoped it would be after reading the first book in the series. Adele was such a wonderful character. The author really wrote her feelings and emotions in such a way that you felt like she could be someone you knew in real life. Her compassion and graciousness really endeared her to me—although they got her in a ton of trouble! It was also a welcome change to read about an older main character. Of course, it was wonderful to reconnect with the Broussards and other characters from the first book and see where they were three years after False Pretenses. Don't get me wrong, though. This isn't just a sweet little book about friends and relationships. This is an intense psychological thriller. The suspense was well-written and fast-paced, and I was truly shocked to discover who was behind the crimes. I can't wait to read the final book in this trilogy! [4 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from David C. Cook in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Author

Best-selling suspense novelist Kathy Herman worked for the Christian Booksellers Association in Colorado Springs, then married a retailer and moved to Texas, where she managed the children's department in the family's Christian bookstore. She has written fourteen novels, including Tested by Fire and All Things Hidden, since retiring from the retail business. Kathy and her husband, Paul, have three grown children and five grandchildren and live in Tyler, Texas. They also enjoy world travel, deep-sea fishing, and bird watching—often tied into one grand adventure!

Kathy Herman Online

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Litfuse Blog Tour | Glamorous Illussions by Lisa Tawn Bergren + GIVEAWAY

Glamorous Illusions
by Lisa T. Bergren
Grand Tour series, Book 1
Historical Christian Fiction / Romance
Available June 2012
David C. Cook
416 pages

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About the Book
It was the summer of 1913, and Cora Kensington's life on the family farm has taken a dark turn. Not only are the crops failing, so is her father's health. Cora is carrying on, helping her mother run their Montana farm until a stranger comes to call, and everything changes. Cora then learns a secret that will radically change her future: she is the illegitimate daughter of a copper king who has come to claim her.

Cora is invited to take the "Grand Tour" of Europe, a journey intended to finish a person's education, to solidify an understanding of ancient culture and contemporary refinement. As she travels from England to France with half-siblings she's never known, Cora encounters the blessings of the Kensington family name, as well as the curses. But when an unbidden love begins to form, she realizes the journey is only beginning.

Faced with the challenge of accepting her father, new family, and the identity that comes with it, Cora also struggles to accept that she is also the daughter of the one true King-a Father who is the only One who can truly heal.

My Thoughts
Oh my! I'll admit that I was in a bit of a "reading slump" when I picked up Glamorous Illusions. A few chapters in, though, my slump was over!

Cora arrives home to her family's Montana farm to find that her father's health has taken a nosedive. As they struggle to take care of the farm, a stranger shows up with (seemingly) all the answers to their problems. Much to her dismay, Cora is whisked away to meet family she never knew existed and to spend the summer touring around Europe with them. The longer she is in Europe, the more she learns about herself and her need to trust in God.

I absolutely devoured this book. I loved Cora and could literally feel her shame and embarrassment as she navigated a new lifestyle in Europe. The Christian element is strong—in that Cora is constantly being brought around to remember that God is teaching her through this—without being preachy. I was intrigued by the rest of the traveling party and hope that some of their stories will come to light more in future books. Even though they annoyed me at times, I still found myself liking them.

As far as the romance goes, I was positively giddy at one point and found myself staying up WAY too late into the night to try to figure out which man would win Cora's heart. The only bad thing I can think to say is that the book is over and I have to wait until next spring for the next in the series! [5 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from David C. Cook Publishers and Litfuse Publicity in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Author
Lisa Tawn Bergren is the best-selling, award-winning author of over 30 books, with more than 1.5 million copies sold. Among others she is the author of a recent Colorado historical trilogy (Breathe, Sing, and Claim) and the widely-acclaimed teen series River of Time.

Lisa's time is split between managing home base, writing (including a fair amount of travel writing), consulting and freelance editing (with a little speaking here and there). She's married to Tim, a liturgical sculptor, graphic designer and musician. They have three kids—Olivia, Emma, and Jack. The Bergrens make their home in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Lisa Tawn Bergren Online

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Giveaway
If you somehow missed out on picking this up last week when it was free for ebook, or if you just like having a hard copy better, the publisher has graciously allowed me to host a giveaway! Enter using the Rafflecopter below. Giveaway runs through Thursday, June 14. Open to US residents only.

(The ebook is on sale for the next two weeks as well: $2.99 on June 9-15 and $4.99 on June 16-22.) 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

How to Fulfill Your Calling While Maintaining Your Sanity

How to Fulfill Your Calling While Maintaining Your Sanity

A beloved pastor shares well-earned wisdom for the next generation of leaders.

Getting out of bed on Monday is a grumpy chore, and overcoming the cloudy-headed daze that almost always characterizes the second day of the week requires a lot of coffee and even more determination. Mondays are hard for us all, but they are particularly difficult for pastors because they have to come down from the “Sunday high.” It’s something few can identify with, but for most pastors it’s a haunting reality that accompanies a litany of stressors like dealing with divisive people, balancing the budget and leading difficult staff members. As a result, a lot of young pastors are desperately hungry for someone older and wiser to walk with them over the mountains and through the valleys of church ministry.

For decades, as an author, poet, pastor and educator Calvin Miller has been a lively and creative voice in the church. Having survived some of the most tumultuous decades of evangelicalism, his latest book, Letters to a Young Pastor (David C Cook), shares his wisdom and experience, his successes and his scars, to help today’s young pastors fulfill their calling…and maintain their sanity. In this humorously authentic collection of letters, he encourages young pastors to fight the good fight, stay the course and keep their eye on the Author and Finisher of the faith—no matter how frustrated they may feel.

Letters to a Young Pastor offers every young pastor an invaluable mentor with a heart for sharing his hard-won insights with those who enjoy the victories and carry the burdens of the pastorate. Dr. Miller’s appeal to young pastors lies not in his overwhelming successes, but simply in the fact that he’s been there and done that. As Dr. Miller says, “The all-time great reason that you should listen to me is that much of what I write about in this book is written from the edge. Ministry is not for sissies, and the requirement of the tough times brings us to the edge of our commitment.”

Regardless of the situation, Dr. Miller’s creative and cordial counsel poetically prods pastors along the path of ministry. To the young pastor struggling with the validity of his calling, Dr. Miller advises, “Young minister of God, keep that little sparkle in your eyes, and then write down how your call came to you, and when you’ve written it down in fire, defend it that way.” For those wrestling with conflict, Calvin challengingly suggests, “Cowards are never good at teaching courage.” Even the pastor who’s not sure whether he’s promoting God’s vision or his own image finds these wise words from Dr. Miller: “This is the foundation of significance: Settle on your vision, and your image will be authentic. But pursue image, and you may miss your vision altogether.”

Many things have changed over Dr. Miller’s pastoral years, from switchboards to smartphones and big-haired evangelists to cigar-smoking emergents. But two things remain the same—God is love and people are broken. Letters to a Young Pastor is a warm, honest and often humorous collection of letters to young pastors and leaders, encouraging them to love Sundays, fight through Mondays and look forward to the day when they’ll hear that great “Well done.”

About the Author
Dr. Calvin Miller’s first full-time pastorate was at Plattsmouth Baptist Church in Plattsmouth, Nebraska, from 1961-1966. He went to Westside Church in Omaha, Nebraska, in January 1966, where he served as senior pastor for 25 years. During his pastorate the congregation grew from ten members to more than 2500 members. From 1991-1998, Miller served as Professor of Communication and Ministry Studies and Writer-in-Residence at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Ft. Worth, Texas. In January 1999, he joined the faculty of Samford University’s Beeson Divinity School in Birmingham, Alabama, where he is currently Professor of Preaching and Pastoral Ministry.

He is the author of more than forty books of popular theology and inspiration. His poems and free-lance articles have appeared in various journals and magazines such as Christianity Today, Campus Life, Leadership and His. He has served as an inspirational speaker in various assemblies and religious convocations, both in his own denomination and other Christian gatherings.

More Stories from Grandma's Attic by Arleta Richardson

I enjoyed these sweet children's books by Arleta Richardson. Each chapter tells a different story about when Grandma was growing up. As she tells these stories to her granddaughter, she weaves in wonderful lessons that teach character. These old-fashioned stories are simple and easy to read, but the lessons are valuable and timeless.

I received this book from The B&B Media Group in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Book
If you are young enough to love a story - and just about everyone is - here are more stories from Grandma's attic. Magical pieces of a day gone by . . . told by that natural storyteller of all loving families - Grandma, the one who never forgets the fun and laughter of a simpler, perhaps richer time.

Stories of an old rag doll that seems to come alive . . . of a newborn goat dancing stiff-legged in the old farm kitchen . . . and of a faith that gives life meaning.

Here are those marvelous tales, faithfully recalled for the delight of young and old alike, a touchstone to another day when life was simpler, perhaps richer; when the treasures of family life and love were passed from generation to generation by a child's questions . . . and the legends that followed enlarged our faith.

About the Author
The late Arleta Richardson grew up on the shores of Lake Michigan. There, her storyteller grandmother recounted memories of her childhood. Arleta retells those tales vividly, stories that have now reached more than two million people around the world.

In Grandma's Attic by Arleta Richardson

I enjoyed these sweet children's books by Arleta Richardson. Each chapter tells a different story about when Grandma was growing up. As she tells these stories to her granddaughter, she weaves in wonderful lessons that teach character. These old-fashioned stories are simple and easy to read, but the lessons are valuable and timeless.

I received this book from The B&B Media Group in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Book

A young girl delights in her grandmother’s stories of days gone by, sparked by keepsakes and simple questions, Grandma shares marvelous stories of mischief , discovery, and laughter, such as the time she accidentally lost the family buggy.

Part of the bestselling Grandma’s Attic series, these charming tales—updated with delightful new illustrations—will whisk you away to another time and place. And you’ll find something worth far more than any treasure or keepsake…timeless lessons of life and faith!

About the Author
The late Arleta Richardson grew up on the shores of Lake Michigan. There, her storyteller grandmother recounted memories of her childhood. Arleta retells those tales vividly, stories that have now reached more than two million people around the world.

That's When I Talk to God by Dan & Ali Morrow

That's When I Talk to God by Dan & Ali Morrow has just launched itself to the top of my list of children's books! A little girl and her mom have a bedtime conversation. Mom tells her that she can talk to God any time ... just like she talks to her mom or dad. The next day the girl looks for opportunities to talk to God - when she needs help, when she is thankful, when she is scared, when someone is hurt, when she is wrong.

This book provides a great way to start God-centered conversations with children! The story is very natural and uses ordinary situations to point children to God. Additionally, the illustrations by Cory Godbey are wonderful and imaginative. What a great tool for parents, grandparents, or anyone who loves children!

I received a free copy of this book from The B&B Media Group in exchange for my fair and honest review.

Passport Through Darkness

As I am typing this on Hubs' iPad, this will be shorter than normal, but I wanted to go ahead and post. I got to know the ministry of Makeway Partners about a decade ago when I attended a missions conference at our church. Kimberly Smith was one of the featured missionaries and I was privileged to met her and have lunch with her during the conference. Since then, I've kept up with the ministry via her blog and weekly ministry email newsletters. You can imagine my del it when I learned that she was writing a book to tell the story of MWP!

Passport through Darkness by Kimberly Smith is truly a fascinating story ... The story of how she and her husband Milton served on the mission field and learned of the atrocities of human trafficking and the sex trade. This led to one life-changing move after another for them and their children. The book is an easy read and I loved Kimberly's writing style. She doesn't gloss over the hard stuff but gives great glory to God for all the ways she has seen Him work over the past years of ministry. I also appreciated that she was honest about how this wonderful ministry has at times affected her personal relationships with her husband, children, and other family and friends.

This is absolutely fascinating. Read it!

5 stars

I received a free copy of this book from The B&B Media Group in exchange for my fair and honest review.

God Knows My Name by Beth Redman

God Knows My Name: Never Forgotten, Forever Loved by Beth Redman is a phenomenal book. The entire purpose of the book is to teach us "that the God who made us also understands us intimately and proclaims our worth by naming us and calling our name." It is evident that Beth has learned this message for herself. She shares bits about her past that expose the hurt she endured and ultimately how the amazing power of God has transformed her life. Every point she makes is from Scripture, which makes the book even stronger.

The primary points Redman makes are evident in the chapter titles: God Knows My Name, God Knows My Past, God Shapes My Character, God Sees My Choices, God Has Not Forgotten Me, God Is My Helper, God Is My Defender, and God Is My Restorer.

At times the book seems a bit simplistic. However, after reading the entire book, I feel like each word is a product of Beth's journey to restoration and is completely heartfelt. The simplicity makes it seem more possible, if that makes sense.

I was thoroughly challenged and encouraged by this book. Several times I thought, "This is just what I need right now."

A complete study guide in the back makes this ideal for group study or for more in-depth individual study.

4 stars (out of 5)

I received a free copy of this book from The B&B Media Group in exchange for my fair and honest review.

Solitary by Travis Thrasher

Solitary by Travis Thrasher is intense. There's no other way to say it. I'm not sure if there's such a genre as Christian Suspense or Christian Horror, but I think this novel fits either.

Chris and his mother move to Solitary to make a new start. Upon arriving, though, it's apparent that Chris's uncle has gone missing, strange things are going on at his school, and the girl of his dreams has some serious secrets.

I wasn't really sure what to expect with this book, but I literally could not put it down. I had to continually refrain from flipping to the end to find out what happened and what in the world was going on. Definitely a page-turner and will keep you hooked from beginning to end.

I was a little disappointed with the spiritual aspects of the book. The book left me feeling a little ... hopeless.

4 stars (out of 5)

I received this book free from The B&B Media Group in exchange for my fair and honest review.

True Religion by Palmer Chinchen

This is a totally mixed review. I was really excited to read this book because of the focus on missions and the importance of missions as part of spiritual growth. The book is well-written - I felt like the author probably writes like he speaks. It was very easy to read. The book is also filled with inspirational tales of the author's missions experiences overseas. The stories express a passion for spreading the gospel and encourage readers to put what they're reading into practice.

However, I had some strong theological misgivings throughout the book. First, the author continually encourages readers to become an "expatriate." Chinchen uses "expatriate" to "describe an extraordinary life, a life of adventure, a life of uncertainty, a life of exhilaration, a life worth living" (p. 51). The Bible's focus on missions is not about a big adventure but rather about spreading the glory of God.

Additionally, each chapter concludes with a suggestion on how to live more like an ex-pat. Some of the suggestions were to rent movies with sub-titles, eat at ethnic restaurants, and studying another language. And these suggestions on how to live like an "ex-pat" are really just suggestions on how to add a little culture to your life. I wish he would have suggested things like read magazines and blogs centered around persecution of Christians, praying for unreached peoples around the world, writing encouraging letters/emails to missionaries, sacrificing financial resources, actually going to another context, etc.

Another chapter focused on the idea that we as Christians are supposed to take pieces of heaven into places of hell. I completely agreed with his supposition that hell-like places/events include genocide, rape, starving children, etc. I strongly disagreed with his thoughts that "pieces of heaven" included things like a Krispy Kreme donut. I realize that we all talk about how great heaven is going to be and how beautiful it's going to be with the streets of gold and the giant mansions, but heaven's going to be great because of GOD. Certainly not because we had a Krispy Kreme donut here on earth and that gave me a small taste of what heaven is going to be like. I pray that when I am in heaven I am so focused on worshiping the creator and savior of the universe that I don't ever want another thing besides HIM.

There was just a real disconnect for me with the examples that the author gave and the thoughts he expressed around them. I would have preferred to see a book more focused on God rather than on our opportunity to have a great adventure doing missions.

Before the theological issues, I would probably give this book a 4 star review. However, with all the theological differences, I would have to give it a 2 star review.

I received this book for free from The B&B Media Group in exchange for my fair and honest review.

That's Where God Is by Dan & Ali Morrow

That's Where God Is by Dan & Ali Morrow is a sweet story where a little boy asks his grandfather where God is. The grandfather tells him to look for God everywhere he goes and to let him know where he finds God. The little boy spends the week looking for God and realizes that God is all around him.

This is a great lesson for children to learn at a young age. The grandfather also shares how you can have a relationship with God. The only issue I really had was that the presentation of the Gospel skips over recognizing and repenting of sin. Yes, a big issue for kids to grasp, but a very important part of beginning a relationship with Christ.

I also appreciated the Scripture that went along with each time the little boy "found" God in the real world. What a great lesson for kids that Scripture backs up our real-life experiences.

Additionally, the illustrations were really beautiful watercolor pictures. They really helped tell the story. I also appreciated the Scripture that went along with each time the little boy "found" God in the real world. What a great lesson for kids that Scripture backs up our real-life experiences.

4 stars (out of 5)

I received a free copy of this book from The B&B Media Group in exchange for my fair and honest review.

The Mailbox by Marybeth Whalen

The Mailbox by Marybeth Whalen was a fun, easy read. Lindsey, recently divorced, returns to Sunset Beach with her kids for her 20th summer there. While there, she runs into the boy (now man) who made this place so special for her 20 years before. Campbell's got his own set of problems - an ex-wife, a daughter with an eating disorder, and the knowledge that he hasn't tried as hard as he should to build strong relationships with the people in his life. It seems they've both been given a second chance - with each other, and with love in general. The question now is, what are they going to do with it?

I really enjoyed The Mailbox. It would definitely be a fun vacation read. Quick, easy, not a lot to think through. I also liked the way the author told the past through Lindsey's letters to the Kindred Spirit who tends The Mailbox (an actual landmark in North Carolina). It was an interesting way to weave in a little character history without getting bogged down. Whalen also addresses difficult issues (like divorce and a child with an eating disorder) without giving pat answers but still giving hope. Other themes include forgiveness, second chances, love, friendship, and parenting.

I would recommend this book and look forward to Whalen's next novel.

4 stars (out of 5)

I received a free copy of this book from The B&B Media Group in exchange for my fair and honest review of the book.

Claim: A Novel of Colorado by Lisa T. Bergren

Wow! Claim: A Novel of Colorado by Lisa T. Bergren was a fantastic ending to The Homeward Trilogy. The book moved quickly, and the two main story lines kept you hanging on until the end. This book gives readers a good dose of adventure, romance, and suspense. I enjoyed seeing characters from the first two novels in the series, and at the same time liked the new characters introduced. (I would highly recommend the other two novels in the series if you want to start from the beginning: Breathe and Sing.)

4 stars (out of 5)

I received a free copy of this book from The B&B Media Group in exchange for my fair and honest review.

Heading Home by Renee Riva

In the conclusion of the Indian Island trilogy, A.J. is reunited with Danny when she returns to the island to go to college. As the two friends fall back into old routines, it's impossible to miss the fact that 8 years has passed ... and they're not the kids they were back then. While A.J. has some big decisions to make, Danny recognizes his true feelings for A.J. Together, they work through big decisions about careers, religion, family, and what they mean to each other.

This is a really sweet story. I had not read the first two books in the trilogy but felt I could easily catch up (although I certainly would enjoy the other books!). The book is funny and a great coming-of-age story. A great young adult novel or a quick read for those of us who wish we still were young adults!

4 stars (out of 5)

I received a FREE copy of this book from The B&B Media Group in exchange for my fair and honest review.

An Interview with Author Lisa T. Bergren

Here's an excerpt of a recent interview with Lisa T. Bergren, author of Sing: A Novel of Colorado.

Q. Is that why you were so tough on these characters in this book?

A. I think it’s easy to be a Christian when things are good. You show what your faith is made of—and possibly discover new depths—when you encounter the bad. Or you walk away. I was glad to see these three getting closer to God, but Nic obviously has a ways to go.

Q. You talk about the characters as if they have minds of their own.

A. [Laughing.] They do! That’s the fun of fiction. I have one idea, but then a certain spin occurs and casts them in a different direction, and I discover new things with them as if I’m riding along, observing. I always start with a rough outline, knowing some key things that will happen, and the ending I’d like to see, but I leave it to the characters to take it from there. When I’m invested in the scene, feeling it as if I’m in their skin, sensing their emotions and mind-set, the plot often turns.

Q. Why the title?

A. We often sing contemporary songs at church that make me think—phrases like “I will sing in the troubled times” and “praise You in the storm”—a pretty big challenge for most people. But learning how to do that makes the good, easy times even sweeter, and the rough times somehow bearable. It’s so important that we all find that deep assurance that God is with us, regardless of what is happening in our lives, good or bad. And when we do, the only proper response is to sing praises in His name. There’s a reason that heaven will be full of singing. They already understand what we’re still trying to get, down here.

Q. We’re in 1880s Colorado. It surprised me when we got to the conquistador gold—what inspired that?

A. The third novel I ever wrote was a romance called Treasure, in which the heroine was seeking Spanish gold as a nautical archaeologist. I think if I’d had half the chance, I would’ve loved the opportunity to be a treasure hunter myself. Indiana Jones and all that, you know. Childhood fantasies. So I always note treasure-ish things I come across, and I read about an actual legend of lost conquistador explorers, who left behind a bounty of gold when they got separated from the rest of their troops in the Sangre de Cristos. Reportedly, two lost hikers came across the cave in a snowstorm twenty years ago, marked it when the storm ended, intending to come back, but could never find it again. They spent years of weekends searching for that cave. Isn’t that fantastic novel fodder? Love stuff like that.

Q. What can we expect in Claim, the third book in this series?

A. Resolution is always nice, though I don’t like things tied up in perfect little bows. Life isn’t like that. But I’m striving to leave my readers satisfied and hopeful, right along with the St. Clairs. I think love is the key for all three. That’s all I’m telling ya. You’ll have to read the big conclusion for yourself.