Angel Sister, Ann H. Gabhart

I enjoy the writing style of Ann H. Gabhart her books are always very real to life. This one is no different. I did find it to be very slow to develop though, unlike some of her other books. I immediately liked the middle sister Kate Merritt, the spunky 14 year old determined to keep her family together. I will be honest in saying I was frustrated at the fact that the mother left that to this child, but a suppose this is also a true to life experience. My heart absolutely went out to the child who was taking on the responsibilities that her parents ought to have. I was also a little frustrated at the older sister who seemed more self-absorbed than any one.

The abandoned child, Lorena Birdson, who breaks into this crumbling family sets up the opportunity for true self-evaluation and change. The father, Victor, is brought face to face with his past. He must learn what God would have him to learn and to turn from his drunkenness. The mother also is brought about-face when this child comes in.

Truly a story of God's redemptive powers. Again, I thought it to be a little too slow moving for me. It was too easy for me to put down and make excuses not to pick back up. I found it a disappointment in comparison to Gabharts other books The Believer and The Seeker which were both very excellent in plot development and movement.

Thank you Revell for this review copy.

The Imagination Station, Voyage with the Vikings, Marianne Hering

Wonderful chapter reader for children! If your children like the Adventure in Odyssey series they will love this book of adventure and excitement. Children are quickly drawn into a lively tale of viking adventures. They meet Leif Erikson and are set out on a mission to fine a sunstone before he sets sail with the Imagination Station on board - will they make it? The story is well-written and easy to read. My oldest boy was so excited to receive it in the mail and could not wait to begin reading. The children are confronted with many challenges and opportunities to share about God when they meet Erik the Red. Erik is angry about the new god that challenges his current beliefs. However the story has a redemptive and happy ending. Faith and courage prevail as is always the case in Adventures in Odyssey. I love the fact that children are absorbing good morals and values without even realizing it - for once the parent doesn't have to be the only one stating these things. Children are invited to see what these things are in action.

Excellent book. Thank you Tyndale for the review copy in exchange for an honest review.

Devotions for a a Sacred Marriage, Gary Thomas

This is 52 week devotional is set up for one devotional a week. The intent of the author is that readers practice what they study the remaining 6 days of the week. I really appreciate the fact that Gary Thomas tells the readers to do other studies the remaining days, thus encouraging couples to study together all days of the week. I like the fact that this is a stand alone devotional. It is not simply a rewrite of the book by the same title (Sacred Marriage), but rather is fresh and new. In this devotional Gary Thomas states that he is applying what is taught in the book. I can't wait to read the book as well. I also am pleased that I could read the Sacred Parenting devotional and not worry about it being a remake of the book that was so good. Too often authors follow up a great book with a "devotional" that is just a synopsis of the book and tends to dissapoint. In the end this is challenge to become a Christ-centered spouse. This is an excellent study!
Thank you Zondervan for this review copy.

Love and War Devotional for Couples, John & Stasi Eldridge

I really enjoyed the books Captivated and Wild at Heart by this same couple so I looked forward to this devotional. As a wife I am always looking for new studies and devotionals to do with my husband. As a Pastor's wife and teacher I am always on the search for something new to recommend to others. This is an wight week daily devotional. Meaning each week covers one topic for 5 days with the last day ending with an "exercise" to do for the remaining 2 days. Although I enjoyed reading it I prefer a little more meat to what I am doing. This is too much reading and too little scripture with no meaningful discussion for couples. If you are looking to spend a few minutes each night reading a nice story to each other this is the book for you. If you are looking for a devotional that will drive you into the study of scripture and true spiritual growth with your spouse you might invest in another study. I would further suggest the book by this same title over the purchase of this devotional. It will cost you about the same and you will have more to read to each other and maybe learn a little more.
Thank you Waterbrook/Multnomah for this review copy.

The 3 Loves, Larry Kreider and Jimmy Seibert

Loving Jesus, Loving God's People, Loving a Broken World....The three passions at the heart of Christianity. Written with a heart toward God these authors lay open the very essence of the Gospel. They show what Christianity is all about and what it's not about. I found this book to be an easy and enjoyable read. The authors exposed the absolute beauty and simplicity of the love of Christ. It is beyond all that man has built it up to be and is simply about loving this man called Jesus - the one who lay it all down for us. This books shows the focus of the early church - simply following in the steps of Jesus; opening your heart to serve a broken and hurting world. This also is enriched by the fact that it is filled with personal stories from those who have walked this road of loving Jesus, loving God's people and loving a broken world. This book shows the true heartbeat of authentic Christianity. It fully exposes the fact that God truly desires us to love Him with all our heart, soul and mind.
Thank you Regal/Gospel Light Publishing for this review copy - I have been blessed and energized in my christian walk!

Relating to God, Disciplemakers Vol. 1

This is a fun way to introduce discipleship without overwhelming a child. The interactive activities are wonderful. Gospel Light has produced a product that is very exciting and easy to use. I love the fact that there are no additional resources needed - it's all inclusive! There is information for teaching large or small groups, older and younger children. In addition there is a cd that weekly Take-Home Challenges that help the children and parents to work together. I think that it is excellent to have the praise music. What better way to get kids connected and excited than some good upbeat music they can relate to? This is most certainly a life changing study for children. I would recommend it for mid-week services or better yet for parents to use at home. The best disciple-maker is the family. I think the use of this kit would change the dynamics of a family unit simply because the study of God's word is life changing.
Thank you Gospel Light for this review copy

Life in the Balance, Joni Eareckson Tada

This is an amazing bible study. Joni addresses the tough issues with the irrefutable truth of the Word. I think that Joni has done an excellent job rightly dividing the Word and exposing the truth about the tough issues like abortion, autism, violence, self-image, eugenics and genocide, stem cell debate, and other often sticky issues of today. These are the ones that no one really wants to address in the "politically correct" climate of today's religious institutions. Yet these are the issues that are tearing apart America. They are the silent killers. Many Christians face these very things and feel that there are no answers. As unplanned pregnancies were the "no talk" subject of days gone by these are the ones that no one really wants to talk about today. I think it would amaze most people that within their own churches there is someone sitting in a pew next to them that is wrestling with these very things. They think that there is no forgiveness, weighted down by despair. This study gives the hope that is only found in Christ. As with all things Joni Eareckson Tada handles these topics with love and grace.

Lady in the Mist, Laurie Alice Eakes

I loved this book! The characters are so lively and likable. I found myself wishing the best for all but one - a despicable, ill-tempered, evil-hearted man. As you pick up this book prepare for an adventure that is filled with a myriad of twists and turns. With each turn of the page I fought the urge to turn to the last page to see how it all ended. The love story is beautiful but even more so is the theme of ultimate redemption and the healing balm of forgiveness. Throughout this story is the truth that we can not work for our forgiveness but that it is a free gift from God - we must surrender and accept it.

Tabitha Eckles, the local midwife healer, holds the secrets of the town in her hands. A wounded spirit and broken heart have left her disillusioned with God. Little does she know that the laying in of one woman would set her on a path that would forever change her life.

Falling in love was never a part of the plan for Dominick Cherrett. On American soil as a bondsman this fallen son of an English lord is out to redeem his name. He is in search for the information that will help prevent a war between his beloved home and this American land.

Truly and amazing story. Filled with love, action, intrigue and mystery.

A must read.

Thank you Revell for this review copy

Truth Standing On It's Head, John N. Day

Be prepared to see the Sermon on the Mount in a new, more personal way. A person cannot read this book without visiting the foot of the cross and falling completely in love again with the Savior who loved each of so much that he willingly gave his own life for our redemption. Dr. Day does an excellent job of thoroughly discussing this passage of scripture and bringing out the truths found within it. This passage is so often read it one passing that I believe much of the truth in it is missed by Christians. Or worse yet only certain portions are studied and taken out of context creating legalism that leads to a christian walk without grace and Christ-like love. Dr. Day systematically explores the deep richness of this passage and teaches with the true heart of a pastor shepherding the flock to the Great Shepherd. He gently leads Christians to the discovery of the mercy and grace of Christ and the deep beauty of a relationship with him.

Thank you Nordskog Publishing for this review copy.

For more books by this publisher visit their website at www.Nordskogpublishing.com

Meet Mrs. Smith, Anna Smith

Curious about a rock stars wife? Here is the end to your curiosity. Anna Smith, wife of lead singer Martin Smith of the group Delirious? and sister to member Jon Thatcher opens up her life. This is great! It is such an easy and enjoyable read about their life and God's impact. She shares experiences of being a mom of 6 and the joys of all this. She encourages each us to embrace life and our callings in Christ even when life is unpredictable or messy. She speaks to people to embrace the talents and passion that God has placed in them to do the kingdom work with all their strength. There are parts that will make you giggle in this book. Honestly, I could not recall one song this group has sang (this only speaks to my ignorance in this area of particular music, not the groups lack of talent) I now want to listen more closely to the songs I hear. Through this book you are allowed to glimpse the heart of the writers and their passion for the things God has put before them to accomplish.

Thank you B&B for this review copy.

The Wiersbe Bible Study Series, Standin Firm in the Face of Opposition

Another study by Warren Wiersbe that is absolutely outstanding. I had never before studied Nehemiah in depth before. I have a new love for this man who so loved the things of God that he went to rebuild the beloved city. Even when the enemies taunted he stood firm. Even with the odds were stacked against him he repeated the promises of God. I love the way this study is lain out. The study does take time to complete each section, but it is time well spent. Although this study can stand alone, I am now very interested in getting the commentary BE Determined. As with his studies his commentaries are rich and full of great teaching. I recommend this book highly for pastors or those in ministry leadership. If anything the heart of a leader that is surrendered to God is shown over and over throughout this study.

Do not delay...this is a must have.

Thank you B&B Communications for this review copy.

Living in the Overlap, Steve Schaefer

I must begin by saying that I admire this author for taking on this topic. I don't think I have read anything quite like it before though one other title comes close. He boldly and without apology attacks the question of how to live life in the overlap. The overlap being this time at present: after the death and Resurrection of Christ and the return. His book opens up the Word to give scriptural insight on how to live the abundant life in Christ now. I like the fact that within the first few pages he discredits the new age movement that has began to creep into the church under the guise of truth by using partial truth (this is still a lie, but rather deceptive in that it appears true to some). He clearly shows that the new age is NOT the age to come (Kingdom of God). This author takes the time to clearly define difficult or theological terms that some may not be familiar with or that may be confusing. His heart as a teacher clearly comes through in his writing. The richness of the truths that this author uncovers in the bible is brilliant. Learn to live an abundant life now in the kingdom. Most certainly a good resource and a great book to read to further your christian walk.

Thank you Glass Roads Publications for this review copy.

Faith Conversations, Jim Burns

A weekly devotional type book for you and your teens. There are 52 conversation starters. It is so well laid out that anyone can use it and benefit from it. Each conversation begins with a topic, states a key verse, then the "Big Idea". This gives a great start to give the idea of what the devotion will be about. It is then broken down into Focus: this is a story that is then followed by questions. The next part is "In the Word": This gives additional scripture and how to apply it. This section has study questions. The last portion is "Reflect and Apply". As always with Jim Burns, his material does not leave a person disappointed. This is an excellent resource for parents. I strongly encourage this for parents!

Thank you for Regal for this review copy.

Truth Standing on It's Head, John N. Day

Be prepared to see the Sermon on the Mount in a new, more personal way. A person cannot read this book without visiting the foot of the cross and falling completely in love again with the Savior who loved each of so much that he willingly gave his own life for our redemption. Dr. Day does an excellent job of thoroughly discussing this passage of scripture and bringing out the truths found within it. This passage is so often read it one passing that I believe much of the truth in it is missed by Christians. Or worse yet only certain portions are studied and taken out of context creating legalism that leads to a christian walk without grace and Christ-like love. Dr. Day systematically explores the deep richness of this passage and teaches with the true heart of a pastor shepherding the flock to the Great Shepherd. He gently leads Christians to the discovery of the mercy and grace of Christ and the deep beauty of a relationship with him.

Thank you Nordskog Publishing for this review copy.

For more books by this publisher visit their website at www.Nordskogpublishing.com

Loving God With All Your Heart, Susie Hobson

Susie Hobson's heart for teaching others about God is openly seen in the pages of this well-written book. For those seeking a more settled life in Christ, one of order and reason this is a book for you. This is an excellent book for husbands and wives to read together. It will bring them together as they strive toward a life of holiness and order in their home. The author urges through biblical standard to draw close to the Lord and to commune daily with him. I was eager to get this book for personal reading and as always I am more than satisfied with it. I have yet to read a book published by this company that does not clearly depict a solid christian faith. This one is excellent. Highly recommend it.

Thank you Nordskog Publishing for this review copy.

For a copy of this book or to view others by this company visit their website.
www.nordskogpublishing.com

Secure Daughters, Confident Sons, Glenn T. Stanton

The lost art of authentic masculinity and femininity is rediscovered in this book. I think it is a much needed book in today's social climate of anything goes. The media portrays femininity in such a sleazy, trashy way that it makes me want to gag. And masculinity is so far from what is depicted in the bible that it is no wonder marriages and families fall apart every day. As the mother of daughters and sons this book is an encouragement and offers guidance in instilling the true definition of biblical manhood and womanhood.

I enjoyed how the author careful takes parents through the development of boys and girls and their hearts desires at certain ages. We all were children at one time, but being honest with ones self would be to admit we no longer remember clearly the things that we wanted. Nor do we remember in all clarity our struggles or difficulty in determining who we really were as young men and women. This book brings that all into a clear picture for parents. Wow! How could I have forgotten all that?

This is a helpful resource for every christian parent trying to navigate the gender confused waters of today. Every parent who desires to raise healthy, happy children who are confident in their prospective rolls as man or woman should go out and purchase this book immediately. The writing is personable and easy to read.

Thank you Multnamah for this review copy.

A Collection of Wednesdays, Amy Gaither-Hayes

I would like to start by saying this is a wonderful book. However, I was truly expecting something a little different. It is filled with the thoughts of everyday life and God's impact. It also has very beautiful poetry. The book is very well written, it is divided into 14 sections, each section has an essay and a poem that follows the same theme. I enjoyed reading it since I enjoy poetry. I think it would be well-used for memory work in home school literature classes. Also it is organized in such a way that it would be easy to pick it up at anytime and find a fitting reading selection for the season a person is in at that time. The faith of the author is clearly displayed throughout her writing. I did find some of the essays a little long and more like journal entries about life. Many of them lacked the effect of stirring my soul or exciting me in my own christian walk. In christian essays I prefer topics that teach some sort of lesson in faith rather than a run down of choosing a name for your next speech or topic. However, all in all, I would recommend this book.

Thank you Zondervan for this review copy.

A Billion Reasons Why, Kristin Billerbeck

A story about first loves and ties that bind. After public humiliation beautiful Katie McKenna has deteremined that she will lead a life of safety - even in matters of love. She takes the stance that practical, steady, depedable love is better than love that makes the heart skip a beat. Little does she know that her predicatable, dependable, bland life is about to be turned on its head when her handsome ex-boyfriend dances back into her life. She had packed away the passion of her youth into a box in the back of heart and moved into a cookie cutter life and a love-less engagement made out of the practicallity of steadiness and dependability. All the while justifying that she was holding true to "love is a choice" biblical standard. Her fiance is Dexter - a graduate of MIT. He is bland and boring - and worse yet unkind and unforgiving. Luc - the dashing ex is now a multimillionaire and he has his eyes set on making things right with Katie. This book is a sweet story of facing past mistakes and humiliation and learning what forgiveness and love are. It is about learning not to be defined by the things that happen in our lives but defining our lives by those beliefs we hold dear - operating in Christ.

The only thing that bothered me - and this may seem silly - is the cover. I could not stand the fact that in the book Katie is a red-haired, green-eyed irish girl yet the book cover shows to brunettes.

Thank you B&B Communications for this review copy.

Died He For Me, Dr. Mark A. Marinella

This is a shockingly graphic and informative book about the physical sufferings of Jesus Christ. I think the author did a great job as a physician of explaining for the understanding of the reader the extensive injuries of Christ. I have not ever read anything like it before. I will be using it later in school as a part of science and bible. I think that it is useful for a better understanding of the physical price of our redemption - most of us would scarce go a day without food for another, much less endure what Christ did.

Thank you Nordskog publishing for this review copy.

The Organized Home Schooler, Vicki Caruanna

This is a wonderfully insightful book. Rather than just simply a "how-to" book of organization it challenges the reader to make a heart change and mind change. I think it would be difficult to find any home schooler that does not want organization in their lives and schooling process. However the challenge is that for many of us this seems to fall apart after a few weeks. This books points out that often the desire is not heart felt but rather an obligatory feeling of needing to be as organized as the next person. I enjoyed the light style of this book. Vicki was in no way condemnatory or uppity, but was helpful and insightful. She truly put forth the effort to edify and encourage home schoolers to a new way of thinking that in turn creates order by pointing the reader to the Creator. She does offer practical advice and ideas that can be implemented into ones life. I found this book extremely easy to read, in fact I read it in one setting. I have gone back since to read over certain section. I most enjoyed the fact that she did not try to make herself appear to be a perfect home school mom.

I recommend this book for others. I received this as a review copy from Crossway Publications.

You can direct order this book or get more information by visiting the following website: http://www.crossway.org