Author:  Elaine Marie Cooper

Published: 2010

My Rating:  4.5 out of 5 stars

Overview

In 1777, Daniel Lowe is an escaped, wounded prisoner of war during the Revolutionary War.  Suffering both from the loss of his brother and a serious leg injury, he makes his way through the wintry woods, where he collapses ready to meet his Maker.  Mary Thompson, still grieving the loss of her best friend and brother, Asa, stumbles across the wounded soldier in the woods on her family’s lands.  She must consider both the political and spiritual impact her assistance might have on both him and her family.

Choosing to nurse the wounded soldier back to health, much like the Good Samaritan, Mary discovers that Daniel is both a man of good character and a man in need of a Saviour.  Despite her widowed mother’s misgivings, Mary pursues a course of action that puts both Daniel and her family’s lives in danger.

My Review

LOVED THIS STORY!  Based on true stories of the author’s ancestors, this was a well-written and thoroughly enjoyable story.  The characters came to life and I felt as though I were watching it unfold before my eyes.  Not only were the characters believable, but actual historical events woven throughout the story make it a significant story, as well.

The reading of the Declaration of Independence by an older veteran soldier in a town meeting was both moving and exciting.  The feelings of doubt regarding her decision to take in an enemy soldier was both understandable and believable.  Would Daniel’s background be revealed?  What would it mean to Mary and her family?

More than just a love story in the midst of war, it is a spiritual journey of forgiveness and compassion, and the way the characters wrestle with their inner emotions and their spiritual convictions are almost palpable.

If you enjoy historical fiction and Christian romance, I highly recommend this book for you.

Also by this author:  Promise of Deer Run (Book Two of the Deer Run Saga)

[I received copies of both books from the author for the purpose of a review.  All opinions expressed here are my own.  Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.  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.]

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My Thoughts

As a mother of three who homeschools, and also writes, I am pretty selective on the books that I read because my time is limited. For me personally I like books that dig down deep into my heart and Fruit of My Spirit by Deanna Nowadnick is one of those books. It’s not your typical book on the fruit of the spirit, and truly that is why I enjoyed it so much! Deanna takes each fruit of the spirit and reflects it on her life and through her reflections she finds God’s grace even in the low tides of life.

I truly enjoyed reading this book. There is so much depth and a whole lot of truth, and that’s why I feel it was definitely worth my time to read it and post this review for you!

About the Book

In a memoir of missteps and misdeeds, Deanna Nowadnick writes of the hugeness of God’s love and faithfulness. Reframing life in God’s grace, she discovers an indescribable, indefinable, inexplicable love that has encircled her without fail through joyous, sad, cringe-worthy, heartwarming, forgettable, memorable moments in life.

Fruit of My Spirit is for anyone who’s ever questioned God’s ability to love and forgive, who’s ever wondered about their place in God’s family or God’s place in theirs. Nowadnick offers hope for those who dare to question, who secretly wonder, and who fear to ask. Through stories of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control, you will experience the enormity of God, too.

This is Deanna Nowadnick’s first book. What started as short story for her sons quickly became a larger story. When not writing, she serves as the Client Service Coordinator for a financial advisor. She’s active in her church, playing the violin and editing the monthly newsletter. She loves to knit, adores chocolate, and most important, enjoys a blessed marriage to Kurt. Deanna lives in Monroe, WA.

I know you will be truly blessed when you read this book!

Giveaway

Deanna has been so gracious to offer to give away one book to one of our lucky readers! Enter below for your chance to win a copy of Fruit of My Spirit by Deanna Nowadnick! Be sure to come back every day and enter again.

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Author:  Brenda J. Wood

Published:  2012

My Rating:  4 out of 5 stars

Overview

What began as an entry in a private journal became a journey on a path to freedom for the author, Brenda Wood.  Struggling with bulimia, her realization that she was empty and trying to fill up on SOMETHING, led her on a path into “healing and wholeness in Christ.”  Sharing personal writings from her journal, Brenda recounts the pain she suffered at the hands of an abuser, as well as the subsequent denial of her feelings which progressed into an eating disorder.

When others told her that her abuse just wasn’t “that bad” she turned her feelings inward, and consumed with guilt and shame, began consuming more and more food in an attempt to soothe her inner turmoil and torment.  With clear bravado, Brenda explores her eating experiences and then delves into the meaning behind them.

My Review

I was excited to receive this book to review.  As I read it, I felt as though I were on a roller coaster ride, sharing her experiences with her.  Brenda Wood writes in a very down-to-earth style, grabbing the reader by the hand as she shares where she was and where God has brought her.  Diving into an abusive past, which was diminished by the adults in her life, she comes to terms with her identity and how God sees her:

Beloved:

You are B-eing
E-ternally
L-oved, and
O-verwhelmingly
V-alued.
You are E-ndlessly
D-ear to Me.

What a beautiful concept of love from the Lord!  If you struggle with guilt & shame for any reason, if you suffer a history of abuse, or if you just want to be reminded of the endless merciful grace of God to a world that is suffering – this is a brief, but moving, read!

Also recommended by this author:

The Big Red Chair – A Story for Grieving Children.

Written about the loss of a grandfather, this is a beautiful but simply profound book that shares about loss and love and faith in an Eternal God.  I give this 5 STARS!!!  (This book comes with an audio CD of the book, narrated by Brenda J Wood, that my girls can’t stop playing!)

[I received copies of each book from the author for the purpose of a review.  All opinions expressed her are my own.  Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.  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.]

 
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Author:  Lara Velez, founder of Moms of Faith

Published:  2012

My Review:  5 out of 5 stars

Overview

Holiness Defined.  Not by culture, opinion, or imagination.  Holiness is defined by the ONE who IS Holy, our Lord God.  More than an unattainable goal, Lara writes,

It is what we are called to, and if God calls us to it, then He will make a way for us to walk in it!

Highlighting character traits such as Forgiveness and Kingdom mentality, holiness is clearly a choice.  Holiness is also a requirement, but God does not just dangle a spiritual carrot before our noses delighting in our failure to achieve holiness.  Rather, He sent for us an example of holiness in His Son Jesus Christ, and His Spirit lives within believers to guide and assist in the choice to live holy.

Relying heavily on Scripture, Lara clearly outlines several steps to take to follow after holiness.  They are not easy, and she admits that, but also encourages and exhorts the reader to BE Holy is Christ is holy.  Challenging, but not impossible for those who believe…

My Review

As I began reading this ebook, I was immediately pricked by the direct truth outlined by Lara in this book.  With a fervor something akin to the apostle Paul, Lara shares God’s Word in a way that clearly demonstrates the NEED for Christ-followers to live a holy life.  Not shying away from cultural sensitivities, I was reminded that God’s Word is indeed like a sword – cutting to the innermost parts, revealing hidden darkness, RIGHTLY dividing the Word of Truth.

Unapologetic and direct, this is a much-needed text in light of our current society and culture.  Breaking down Scriptures to view them in context – Lara really drives home the point that God DID call His children to live holy lives.  Illustrating how easy it is to become watered down, the truth of God’s Word shines through – and this book is very much an investment in spiritual growth. I would recommend this for you especially if you feel dry or lukewarm in your walk with Christ, but it is a wise choice for any believer to read!

[I downloaded a copy of this ebook for my own personal use.  Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.  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.]

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Author:  Carol Brown

Published:  2010

Rating:  4 of 5 stars

Overview

This is the story of Sassy Pants, the runt pig in a litter of 19.  Sassy Pants can’t find a place at the table with her siblings, so the farmer & his wife take her into the house and hand feed her.

As time passes, not only does she grow out of her little box, but she also develops an image of herself that quite exceeds that of other pigs.

When she is plunked into the barnyard with the other pigs, Sassy Pants suffers an identity crises – and a bad attitude.  After many trials and bad behavior, will Sassy Pants learn her lesson?  Or will she be relegated to the ranks of a troublesome pig?

My Review

What a CUTE, cute story!  I enjoyed reading it and will re-read it to my daughters over and over.

The storyline really highlights what happens when one develops a bad attitude in the circumstances of life, and how a change in attitude is necessary to find peace and happiness.  Even after Borus Hog explains the rules to Sassy Pants, she bucks authority and the way things are.  She is unwilling to be a pig – she thinks she is much better than that!

As Sassy Pants mulled over her thoughts and feelings, it was easy to understand and relate to because in a way she was so human.  And the trouble she caused because of her negative attitude and ungrateful heart leads to more lessons than one pig should learn!

Very cute – very understandable – very enjoyable to read!  Although it does not make specific references to Scripture or Bible passages, it certainly can be related to lessons about thankfulness, obedience, and trust in God.

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Author:  Ann Voskamp

Published:  2011

My Rating:  4 out of 5 stars

Overview

Ann Voskamp “hungers to live her one life well.”  Suffering tragedy, facing heartbreak, feeling tremendous loss – it’s easy to forget how blessed we are.  Rather than focusing on the losses, this book suggests you change your perspective and look with new eyes at the things surrounding you.

Chronicling the blessings in her life – gifts, as she calls them – started with writing down the little things she noticed as she moved throughout her day.  Whether a ladybug on her windowsill or mail in the mailbox, she begins a journey of naming the gifts from God as she sees them before her.

More than that, she embraces a lifestyle of thanksgiving – of giving thanks in all things – and choosing to live in gratitude, despite the loss and heartbreak of life.  She questions, she ponders, she wrestles – and she learns this important truth:

God is always good and I am always loved.

Rather than rushing through a hurried life, she begs to slow down and enjoy and notice each passing moment as often as she can, living Eucharisteo – Grace, Thanksgiving, Joy…

My Review

I had heard and seen so much about this book before I bought it for myself.  I never realized how much my parched, thirsty soul longed for a few precious drops of Water.

Although it took me a couple of chapters to adjust to Ann’s very personal, poetic and thoughtful writing style, it deeply moved me and I found myself highlighting and underlining in red pencil various thoughts and ideas in the book.  I never do that except when I’m studying and want to remember something important…

I have been challenged by this book to LIVE life differently.  The caption on the front of the book reads, “A Dare to LIVE FULLY Right Where You Are,” and after reading through just the first couple of chapters, I recognized such shallowness in my living.  Such stiff, robotic motions and movements in my life that leave me feeling parched & dry.   I was unaware of how much this book would speak to my spirit, and I am better for reading it.

The principles and ideas she shares from her experience are enlightening and encouraging to me as I pursue a closer walk with Christ.  Her writing style may put some people off, but I found heaps of grace throughout this book, and am thankful I read it!

[I purchased a copy of this book for own personal use.  Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.  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.]

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Author:  Robert D Saffrin

Published:  2011

My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Overview

Looking at the life of King David in the wake of his son Absalom’s conspiracy to take over the throne, readers are invited to consider the heart of the man who was after God’s own heart.  David’s rise to the throne was anything but easy, and when his son, Absalom, decided to launch a rebellion and declare his intention to take the throne, David had to take his family and flee for safety.

Psalm 3 is written while David is on the run.  Rather than facing a feared or disliked enemy, David faces his own firstborn, and records his turmoil and despair int his chapter.   What’s remarkable is David’s complete trust and rest in the God of his salvation.  Working through Psalm 3, we can see how David pours out his broken heart to God and then rests in knowing that God is his shield.

Three important points – the keys to trusting God implictly (and learning how to sleep like a baby) – are illustrated in this book:

• Who the Lord is
• What the Lord does
• How the Lord is there

Such simple thoughts, and yet essential to trust in the Lord.

My Review

My only disappointment in this book was that I was done reading much sooner than I wanted to be.  I enjoyed reading through this book – considering the troubles that David faced and how he cried out to God and then just nestled into Him with complete trust.

We have all faced troubles, although maybe not a son who threatened our very life, and can relate to feeling overwhelmed and alone.  This review of Psalm 3 is a sweet reminder that God is with us – whether we are asleep in our own beds, or the rocky floor of a desert cave.

The three crucial points mentioned above are really so simple – and so powerful.  To KNOW who God is reminds us that we don’t have to fear.  To know what He does (and HAS done for us already) gives us confidence in his character.   Knowing He is with us in every circumstance brings peace that DOES allow us to rest confidently in Him.

[I downloaded a copy of this book for my Kindle, for the express purpose of providing a review. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.]

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Author: Pam Vredevelt

Published: 1999

My Rating:  4 1/2 stars out of 5 stars

Overview:

Written for overwhelmed parents, Espresso for Your Spirit takes a look at the reality of parenting from a humorous and hopeful perspective.  Rather than promising impossible results, it offers encouragement and insight into parenting.  With chapter titles like “Time for a Refill”, “Accepting a New Destination”, and “Letting Go of  Second Best”, the author shares her real life experiences and lessons learned in a way that helps reframe some of the more difficult parenting moments.

Although this is not a new book, it is poignant, thought-provoking, and applicable to those everyday moments that can make parents feel defeated and discouraged.

My Overview

Sometimes, it just helps to know that other parents experience the same (or even worse) moments during parenting that I do.  Sometimes, getting bogged down in the details of parenting can be exhausting.  When kids are sick, or sassy, or sarcastic – sometimes a parent needs a new perspective, and this book offers just that.

While I have laughed throughout the reading of this book, there have been moments of intense conviction about my attitude towards parenting and being a mom.  I’ve been reminded of my calling and heard things from a new point of view that gave me courage to try new things for and with my children.  This is not a “how-to” parenting book per se, but I’ve been refreshed enough to take a step back and reconsider my reactions in certain situations – and encouraged to pray for wisdom and direction in starting in a new direction.

At the end of the book are “Koffee Klatch Questions” that could be considered by parents for their family, or in a group setting of parents.   Each chapter offers its own small section of questions that help the reader review their own parenting and family situation and provide insight and reconsideration of attitudes of the heart.

This was a very enjoyable read – and if you are feeling discouraged or defeated in parenting – I recommend this book for you!

Click HERE to download your sneak peek of the first chapter!

[I received a copy of this book from WaterBrook Multnomah Blogging for Books program for the express purpose of providing a review. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.]

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Editor: Ann Spangler

Published: 2011

My Review:  5 out of 5 stars

Overview

The Names of God Bible is intended to invite the reader to “know God on a deeper level” by studying and using his names and titles throughout Scripture.  Spangler, the author of Praying the Names of God, goes into detail about the meaning and use of each name or title, and the bible is highlighted so that one can study a name as it is used throughout Scripture.

Using God’s Word Translation, The Names of God Bible

restores more than 10,000 occurrences of specific names of God – like Yahweh, El Shadday, El Elyon, and Adonay – to help readers connect with the Hebrew roots of their Christian faith…

Seeing God’s names – as used by Abraham, Moses, and David – and understanding the meaning of the names and titles used brings excitement to the text.

Name Pages feature information associated with the most important names and titles of God, as well as devotional readings and Bible promises associated with the featured name.

Sidebars reference the relationship between the person in the bible and the specific name they called God.

Reading and exploring God’s Names as they were originally used and intended brings a level of intimacy and understanding that brings the Word of God to life.

My Review

I was so excited to see this Bible advertised, and I jumped on my chance to buy it for my personal use.  Beginning January 1, I’ve been reading this Bible for my new 2012 reading plan – and it has really added a new perspective to my Bible study.

I’ve read the Bible through several times, but this rendering – in easy to understand English – really makes me consider how I pray to God and how I speak to Him.  I’ve given more deliberate thought to the way I address God and how I view Him and His character.

Names like Yahweh and Elohim are profoundly more moving, and to read them in Scripture makes Him more present and tangible.  Understanding what the names mean, and imagining the likes of Noah and Abram answering “Yes” in their walk with God is honestly overwhelming.

If you want to add some richness to your Bible reading, this may well be a version for you.  Looking at Him as more than “God” – that name that is so often used by anyone – and knowing Him personally by one or many of His names is exquisitely beautiful.

[I purchased this Bible for my own personal use.  Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.]

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Author: Diana Wallis Taylor
Published: 2011
My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Overview

Pulling characters from the pages of Scripture, this book takes a look at the life of Martha of Bethany.

Martha’s entire life is marked by her responsibilities to her family.

This well describes the Martha of the New Testament.  Known for her hospitality and concern over domestic affairs, Martha was a woman who knew the Lord and his disciples.   What this novel does, is take what we know and build it into a woman that we can see more fully with human eyes.

The responsible sister of a sick brother and daydreaming sister, Martha often steps up to the challenge of household responsibilities and the author suggests that maybe she had to sacrifice much more than we read in Scripture.

My Review

What I love most about novels based on Biblical characters, is an author who gives new perspective on the person I think I know.

Martha is mentioned several times throughout Jesus’ ministry – and it is known that she opened their family home to him and his itinerant disciples.  We know she had a brother Lazarus and a sister, Mary.

We also know that she grumbled at the amount of work which she was doing.

But since reading this book, I’m convinced Martha had a bad rap!  It is not that we should neglect to learn from the lessons displayed in Scripture mentioning Martha.  I do think, though, that it is REALLY easy to categorize her and criticize her for an attitude that I often find in myself.  If I’m grumbling at my responsibilities, then I can also imagine that Martha  might have been left to do all the work most often by a brother who was sick and a sister who maybe didn’t think about the necessary things.

The story of Martha is about serving Christ.  About knowing that our roles and calling are about serving Him and bringing glory to Him.  Ultimately, this novel is an enjoyable read that makes Martha seem a little more realistic, a little less bad-girl, and a whole lot more relatable in a bigger way.

While the author has to take some liberty since we don’t have great details about Martha’s life, I do enjoy the fact that romance was not the ONLY aspect covered.

I received this book for free in order to provide a review.  Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.

Disclosure: Some affiliate links have been used within this post.

Download TODAY! ==> Faith - A Four Week Mini Bible Study
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