Sunday, November 10, 2019

"Imagine: The Miracles of Jesus" by Matt Koceich

Miracles are supernatural happenings. Imagine what it would have been like to witness the awesome miracles of Jesus! In this new book, Matt Koceich gives his readers an opportunity to imagine just that.

John Le is a young man whose world seems out of control. His sketches of lotus flowers help him and his mother remember Jesus, but John can't get past the turmoil in his life. While he is flying home, the turbulence in the air mathes the turbulence at home and John asks God why there is no break in all of this. But then, he wakes up by the Sea of Galilee and gets the opportunity to witness some of Jesus' miracles. Can his "experience" help him trust more that God knows what He is doing? Young readers everywhere will enjoy the story and find ways to apply trust in their own lives.

I really enjoyed this book, just as I have enjoyed the others in this series. I love buying these for the young readers in my life and am building a library for my grandchildren. I recommend this whole series to families everywhere and am thankful to the publisher for my review copy. The review is totally my thoughts and words.

Wednesday, October 23, 2019

"Bible Prophecy and You" by Len Woods

Bible Prophecy is something that can stump anyone, and its study consumes many Christians. What if there was a book for everyday readers like you and me? This is such a book! Have you given up on the study? Try picking up this book. It should help.

Prophecy from the past, present, and future is explored in this new book by Len Woods. Starting with "Prophecy 101" moving through to "Here's What We Can Say for Sure," this book is filled with understandable information about past, present, and future events. The colorful pictures/illustrations and extra Scripture passages add to the understanding you will get about prophecy and Israel and other nations, as well as topics like: Hell, the Rapture, the 144, 000, and the Two Witnesses. 

I really like this book. I grew up in church, but still appreciate books written for those of us not in theological colleges/universities. It is easy to understand and the illustrations help the information come to life. This book is for anyone who wants to delve into prophecy but is a little afraid of the many books out there. You can understand and learn more about prophecy. I recommend this book to all adults. Thank you to Barbour Publishing for my review copy of the book. The review and words are totally mine.

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

"When God Says Wait: A Devotional Thought Journal" by Elizabeth Laing Thompson

Micah 7:7 (ESV) "But as for me, I will look to the Lord; I will wait for the God of my salvation; my God will hear me."

Waiting, one of the toughest things we can endure. Waiting can cause us to doubt our faith, worry over the small things, stop reading our Bibles, and change us into impatient, frustrated people. But, have you ever tried journaling through the wait? This new journal, designed by Elizabeth L. Thompson can help each of us work through the times of waiting.

Scripture passages, special thoughts, illustrations, and examples await each person who picks up this journal. And then there is the space to write. The invitation is there on each page to write something, to answer a question, to let out something about your wait. This book will help make the waiting a little more productive for you. 

I really like this journal and can definitely see how God will use it to help me as well as so many others. Are you waiting right now? Why not pick up a copy of this journal and try it out? You might just see God work through the waiting to blessing. I am thankful to Barbour Publishing for my review copy. The review and thoughts are totally mine.

Tuesday, September 17, 2019

"Jesus in Me" by Anne Graham Lotz

Do you enjoy a good Bible study, whether as an individual or in a group? Do you enjoy studies that encourage and strengthen you, promoting spiritual growth? Anne Graham Lotz has a new one available called, "Jesus In Me," and it could truly change your life as you study about the Holy Spirit in depth.

When Jesus returned to Heaven after rising from the dead, He promised us a Comforter. That Comforter is the Holy Spirit and He is always with us! We are never alone, even though there may be times we feel alone. In this study, you will look at who the Holy Spirit is (Helper, Comforter, Strengthener, and more), how to Enjoy His Presence, how to Rely on His Power, how to Embrace His Purpose (Guides, Ignites, Shapes, and more), how to Live by His Precepts, how to Reflect His Purity, and how to Trust His Providence. It really is an in-depth look at our Constant Companion. Doesn't it look good? Pick up a copy and try it out for yourself.

This book is a wonderful challenge for me. I am enjoying learning more about the Holy Spirit and will be buying this book to give as a gift to others. Anne Graham Lotz makes it personal, and that appeals to me. I highly recommend it to you! 

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.  

Sunday, September 1, 2019

"Dear Grandchild, This is Me" by WaterBrook



Do you have a grandchild now or one coming in the future? Do you know someone who is a grandparent? This new journal is just right for you! Time moves so quickly and we don't often stop to relay the stories and truths of our lives. This journal will help do just that.

Grandparents will open this book and begin to tell their story. There are sections where you will introduce yourself, talk about your childhood, talk about high schooh and college, and so much more. There is a section to talk about how things have changed, and what an eye-opening time that will be for everyone. From the moment a grandchild opens this book that is filled with such love and wisdom, they will be changed. This is a book that will help keep family history alive. Pick it up and check it out. You won't be sorry.

I really like this book. I was given one similar to it as a gift when my first grandchild came along. What an opportunity to give insight into my thoughts and experiences! I highly recommend it to grandparents everywhere. You won't regret this wonderful journey of recollection. I received my review copy from WaterBrook & Multnomah. The review is mine.

Saturday, August 17, 2019

"The Scripture Memory Map for Women" A Creative Journal

One of the things Christians are encouraged to do is memorize Scripture. There are many ways to do this and they vary in effectiveness from person to person. In this new journal. every woman can find help for memorizing. All it takes is s little time.

This journal breaks down memorization into pieces that make it easy to learn and apply. From writing out the verse, to finding reasons it is important to remember, to how it applys to our lives, to a prayer, and more; each piece is meant to make the verse personal to the learner. The Bible version you used is your choice, and the reader will find multiple versions quoted. Is it time for you to get a little help from this journal?

I really like this journal. While I don't have trouble memorizing, this "map" is useful to me for keeping track of what and why I am learning. I can't wait to get more copies to give as gifts! I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. 

"The Jesus Who Surprises" by Dee Brestin

In her new book, Dee Brestin provides evidence and encouragement in finding Christ all through the Bible and in our lives. This book is perfect for either a personal or group Bible study and enables the participant to go in depth in each lesson. 

As the title implies, many people are surprised at where Jesus shows up. From Genesis 1:1 through the remainder of the Bible, and in every aspect of a person's life, Jesus' presence is made known. This study will help indifiduals identify the where's and why's, enabling a closer, sweeter relationship with HIm. A few of the study titles are: "The God of the Dance," "Religion Versus the Gospel," and "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon." Maybe it's time for a new Bible study for you.

I love Bible study and especially like new approaches. This one intrigued me and still does as I am working through it. I grew up in church, but continue to learn and grow all the time. This is a study I recommend for people at all stages of their faith journey. God will bless you! I received my review copy from WaterBrookMultnomah in exchange for an honest review.

Monday, August 5, 2019

Upcoming book "Law and Addiction by Mike Papantonio

About the author:
Mike Papantonio is the author of Law and Addiction. A truth-teller, he is a crusader who uses fiction to entertain and inform his readers about some of the most pressing issues of our time. In each of his thrillers, he lays bare the conspiracies and white-collar crimes that hurt ordinary Americans — and that are rarely covered by the national media. A senior partner of Levin Papantonio, one of the country’s largest plaintiffs’ law firms, Papantonio uses his own cases as springboards for his novels. He has aggressively taken on Big Pharma, tobacco, weapon manufacturer, and the automobile industry, among other bastions of corporate greed. One of the youngest inductees into the Trial Lawyer Hall of Fame, Papantonio is also a well-known media presence as host of America’s Lawyer and co-host of the syndicated radio show Ring of Fire. A skilled musician and athlete, he is based in Pensacola, Florida.

Praise for Law and Addiction:
“This compelling read is both entertaining and edifying, and the story is more than timely. In his real life, attorney Papantonio is making it his mission to bring to justice those who unleashed the opioid scourge upon our country; in this fictional tour de force he has drawn characters engaged in this life and death struggle that the reader can't help but care about. Bravo!”—Alan Russell, #1 bestselling author of Burning Man and Guardians of the Night

“The multidimensional brilliance of Mike Papantonio shines brightly through this can't-put-it-down legal thriller. For a deep dive into law and politics, power and those who fight it, and the very human conflicts that drive and tear at us all, read Law and Addiction!”—Thom Hartmann, nationally syndicated talk show host and New York Times bestselling author

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Int-SMVzqXk

Friday, July 26, 2019

"Core 52" by Mark E. Moore

Do you want to delve deeper into your Bible? Would you like to be better at Bible challenges and other Bible trivia games? This book is a great choice for you. All that the author, Mark Moore, asks is that you commit fifteen minutes a day, and you will increase your Bible IQ. Maybe you think that you know everything and don't need another study book? Why not take a look and see just what you can glean from a new and different study? All you need is fifteen minutes a day.

This book contains 52 chapters (1/week for a year) and each chapter has an essay, a verse to memorize, some Bible passages to read, meditation opportunities, and an activity. It is fun and enlightening, and can be used for personal or group study. The Bible holds so many truths and this book will help you unpack many of them. 

I really am enjoying this book and the things I am learning. It is full of opportunities to ponder Scripture and understand the Bible on a deeper level. Thank you to Waterbrook & Multinomah for my review copy. The words and recommendation are mine.

"How to Be a Courageous Girl of God" an Interactive Journal

Girls and young women are being pulled in many different directions today. Many parents struggle to instill in them the wonderful principles of being courageous and full of faith while being respectful of others at the same time. In this new interactive journal, girls and young women can study women of the Bible and learn the different parts and sides of being courageous.

In this journal, readers will look at the lives of thirty four courageous women of God. Some of these women are: Rahab, Jochebed, Abigail, Lydia, Rhoda, and Naomi. There are also girls to study here such as: Jairus's daughter, Miriam, and Naaman's servant girl. Each is special and each has much for all of us to pay attention to. In each study, the Bible passage is posted for reading along with a few thoughts. Then, the participant can draw a picture of what they learned from the story, and answer why that particular woman was courageous and how the participant can be courageous like the example. Each girl using this book will find multiple ways to learn and react to the woman's example. 

I really like this interactive journal and think many young people will enjoy the studies. They study their Bible, with a few thoughts from the author, then draw and write about what they understand about courage from that example. What a powerful way to learn! I highly recommend this and plan on buying copies to pass on. I am thankful for my review copy from Barbour Publishing. The review is totally my viewpoint and not required.

Tuesday, June 4, 2019

"Love's Complete: A Russian Adoption Story" by Hull/Tarkovski

Adoption can be complicated for little ones to understand and this book helps. Inside the covers readers find a story of love written in poetry that children and adults will enjoy. The rhyme scheme and drawings are fun and poignant, and draw readers into the adoption journey. This journey is specifically designed to tell the story of parents adopting Russian children . From the decision to adopt, through the application process, and the waiting, readers will feel the love that accompanies adding someone to the family. They will also see that adoption is complicated, especially international adoption, and will want to support families who are waiting. Little ones will wait in anticipation of a future brother or sister joining their home.

I really enjoyed this little book. It felt especially special to me because I have friends who adopted two Down's Syndrome girls from Russia. The love and support that they shower on their daughters is amazing, and they are always talking about how thankful they are for the support they have been given every step of the way. I recommend this book to families everywhere to promote understanding of the entire process. Thank you, BookLook Bloggers for my review copy. The review is all mine.

Thursday, May 30, 2019

"Precious Moments Little Book of Grandma's Love" by Jean Fischer

Are you a grandmother or looking forward to being one? This book is for you. In her new book, Jean Fischer combines Precious Moments drawings with Scripture, songs, short stories/thoughts, and the like to not only share with grandchildren, but to uplift grandparents. The book is a board book so the pages are easy for little fingers to turn. The drawings light up the pages with precious moments characters that children love. It is a wonderful book that belongs in every grandmother's library.

I love being a grandmother and love this book. It is fun to read the poems, songs, verses, etc. out loud and see the interest in my grandson's face. He loves being read to and the pictures engage him as well. This book will make a great gift for any grandmother or grandmother to be. I know I am giving some away! Thank you to Book Look Bloggers for my review copy. The review is totally mine.

"The King's Mercy" by Lori Benton

What do you get when you combine a Scottish rebel, an Englishman with slaves, and a woman with a tender heart? You get the newest book by Lori Benton, a historical romance that will sweep you into the world of Alex, Edmund, Joanna, Phineas and so many others. What is the King's Mercy and why was it bestowed on Alex? What is the South like in the 18th century? Lori Benton tells her readers within the pages of this wonderful new book.

The 18th century was filled with many harsh conditions and hardships. Lori Benton describes many of these, such as indentured servants, slaves, etc., drawing her reader into the compelling story. Her masterful story telling pulls you into the lives of the characters and places in this book. You will feel for and with the characters. You will want to help them. Come into the world of "The King's Mercy," and find yourself immersed in another place and time.

I loved this book and my review can't really portray how much. If you like historical novels, you will love this book. If you like reading, you will love this book. I recommend it to everyone and look forward to reading more by Ms. Benton. Thank you to WaterBrook & Multnomah for my galley. I enjoyed reading and writing the review for this book.

Monday, May 20, 2019

"The Inn at Hidden Run" by Olivia Newport

In her new book, "The Inn at Hidden Run," Olivia Newport uses two places in time to tell her story. Readers meet Jillian, her father, Nia, and Meri in a contemporary timeframe; and Eliza in the Yellow Fever Epidemic of 1878. Each timeframe is compelling and draws the reader in. As the story unfolds, readers are taken on a journey that delves into a family tree that pulls so much together.  Be sure to pay attention to the time change so you don't get confused. 

Wouldn't it be great to study geneology and uncover secrets and truths of the past? Take the time to meet Eliza, a woman who worked tirelessly in Memphis to help those afflicted with Yellow Fever, and remember, the time was 1878. Find out why it is so difficult for Meri after she flunks out of medical school and why it is important for the others to help her. Take the time to unravel the story and find the answers.

I really enjoyed this book because of the complexity of time presented.  Genealogy fascinates me, and following the threads here was really fun. Thank you to Barbour Publishing for my review copy. I enjoyed reading the book and writing my review. 

"Imagine: The Giant's Fall" by Matt Koceich

Imagine losing your mother to cancer and your home to a fire, and you're only in fourth grade. Imagine writing a book to help other children deal with cancer. Then, imagine finding yourself questioning what it is all for. Why is God allowing this? Would you get an answer?

Wren is in this situation. She and her friend Beth were writing a book to help other children and now everything was gone. And then the scene changed and she was in a totally different place watching someone rescue a lamb from two wild animals. Then she gets pulled into a battle between giants and the Israelites. What was happening to her? Could God be trying to show her that He does have a plan and that things do work out eventually? In his new book, Matt Koceich takes his readers into the world of David and Goliath; a world where the impossible became possible. Are you ready to IMAGINE...?

I love these books! Matt Koceich has a great way of taking his readers, young and old alike, into the Biblical world he is portraying. I have read the others and this one is right there with them. I recommend these books to anyone with young readers. They will also make good books to read together because the principles and discussions will be great. I plan to get an entire set of the books for my grandchildren, adding as they come out. Thank you, Matt Koceich! Thank you, Barbour Publishing for my review copy. I loved reading and reviewing this book.

Tuesday, April 2, 2019

"Taste and See" by Margaret Feinberg

Taste and See, a new devotional by Margaret Feinberg, combines the love of food with the love of the Bible. How does God feel about food? What does the Bible say about food? Come explore in "Taste and See."

The Bible is rich in references to different types of foods and their preparation. In this study, Ms. Feinberg explores many. Each lesson starts with a practical lesson from the kitchen and it is all woven into a beautiful Biblical application. Olives, bread, salt, and more deliciousness for the table are explored through actual "field trips" and recipes. Then readers go more in depth in the Bible. Ms. Feinberg causes readers to "taste" then "see" making the information really stick. Readers will not be disappointed in this study.

I love this study! It is fun and so thought provoking. I love actually thinking about what God wants me to pull from a specific passage about food. The recipes are wonderful and help me to remember the verses and applications I have learned. If you are looking for a new study, come on and "Taste and See!"

Tuesday, March 5, 2019

"Convergence" by Ginny L. Yttrup

Dr. Denilyn Rossi is a Psychology professor who tells her students that our present and future depend upon how we deal with their past. What choices they make will either help or hurt them, and many students truly believe her and want to live embracing the past and moving forward. What happens when the choice is not so clear cut?

Dr. Rossi enjoys teaching but doesn't totally apply all of the teaching to herself. One such teaching is that dealing with the past will determine how you deal with your today and tomorrow. Adelia took the teaching to heart, desiring to make her life better moving forward, not living in the past. But, neither woman bargained for someone wanting to destroy their peace. Neither thought their future would be entwined with the other. Neither bargained on a stalker.

This book is full of thrilling and suspenseful twists and turns. While the book didn't grab me right away (too many descriptive words), it did grab me eventually. If you like a good, suspenseful mystery, this may be the book for you. Give it a chance to grab you and I think you will find it worth it. Thank you to Barbour Publishing for my review copy. The review is honest and mine. 

Tuesday, January 29, 2019

"Hebrews: It's Not How You Start-It's How You Finish" by Dr. Kathy Stewart"

Did you ever want to study the Bible book of Hebrews? Now is your chance! Dr. Kathy Stewart fell in love with this book while in college and decided to write a study guide to help others uncover the richness of Hebrews. 

Hebrews is a book in which Christians can find encouragement. In this study, Dr. Stewart highlights each verse, many times comparing the verse with its Old Testament counterpart. It makes for an enjoyable, information rich study on the fact that Jesus Christ is God and the Messiah. Christians will come away from the study encouraged that they have more answers about Christ and their faith.

I really enjoyed studying Hebrews with Dr. Stewart. I love the book and found myself refreshed and encouraged when I finished. If you are looking for a new study, or a study on Hebrews, I recommend this one. If you aren't looking, be sure to keep this one in mind for the next time. Thank you to the Book Look program for my copy. This is an honest review. 

Thursday, January 3, 2019

NKJV Maxwell Leadership Bible

There are many Bibles on the market today, so choosing one that fits your needs can be daunting. Are you a leader in your church? Do you want to be one? This Bible is designed to help Christians use their talents for leadership by giving examples and pointers throughout. 

Moses, David, Jeremiah - three mighty men of God who are profiled here for their leadership qualities. Discernment, Empowerment, Character - three characteristics of strong leaders. These are just a few of the people and characteristics found in the Bible alongside Scripture that reinforces them. If you want to be a front line leader or a more sedate leader, there is information in this Bible to help you reach your goals.

I really like this Bible because as I read along I also get leadership tips. Each Bible book has a spot for the Leadership Highlights for that book, so they are easy to search out. This is a Bible I will give as gifts, one I know will be used. Thank you to Book Look Bloggers for my copy. This is a true and honest review.