Author: Nicholas Sparks
Paperback: 368 pages
Publisher: Grand Central Publishing;
Reprint edition (August 2, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0446547603
Book Description:
When a mysterious young woman named Katie appears in the small North Carolina town of Southport, her sudden arrival raises questions about her past. Beautiful yet self-effacing, Katie seems determined to avoid forming personal ties until a series of events draws her into two reluctant relationships: one with Alex, a widowed store owner with a kind heart and two young children; and another with her plainspoken single neighbor, Jo. Despite her reservations, Katie slowly begins to let down her guard, putting down roots in the close-knit community and becoming increasingly attached to Alex and his family.
But even as Katie begins to fall in love, she struggles with the dark secret that still haunts and terrifies her . . . a past that set her on a fearful, shattering journey across the country, to the sheltered oasis of Southport. With Jo's empathic and stubborn support, Katie eventually realizes that she must choose between a life of transient safety and one of riskier rewards . . . and that in the darkest hour, love is the only true safe haven.
(Thank you to Hachette Book Group for my free review copy.)
Friday, October 21, 2011
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
The One Who Waits For Me by Lori Copeland
Author: Lori Copeland
Paperback: 320 pages Publisher: Harvest House Publishers
(August 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0736930183
Book Description:
Bestselling author Lori Copeland (Walker’s Wedding and Outlaw’s Bride) sets her brand-new story in North Carolina the months after the Civil War. In the midst of chaos, there is also a sense of possibility and the hope of love when:
Sisters Beth and Joanie run from a vindictive uncle toward healing
Trella, a pregnant young slave, leaves a plantation for freedom
Gray Eagle, a Cherokee military scout, finds refuge for the young women
Captain Pierce, a quiet man of faith, heads for a plot of land and a new life
Samuel, a black soldier, longs to follow his father’s preaching legacy
The intersecting lives and tales of these engaging characters and those they meet along the way create an uplifting story of tested faith, growing seeds of love, and the challenge and gift of believing God’s promise of a future.
My thoughts:
Lori Copeland has written a good, clean, fun read with The One Who Waits For Me. I can't say that it is on par with Gone With The Wind, but it is an entertaining Civil War/old South novel. It is a spiritual adventure book which reminds us that God has a plan for our lives--a plan that we may not see at the moment.
(That you to Harvest House for my free review copy.)
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Money Saving Meals & Round 2 Recipes by Sandra Lee
Author: Sandra Lee
Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: Hyperion
(October 4, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1401310818
Book Description:
In Money Saving Meals and Round 2 Recipes, Sandra Lee helps readers save more money than ever before one meal at a time, as she does in her highly popular Food Network show.
These dishes are easy, quick-scratch style, and include dishes such as Slow Cooker Short Ribs, Grilled Pork Chops with Peach Salsa, Chicken Tacos with Cucumber Salsa, Beanless Beef Chili, S'mores Pudding Parfait, and much more.
Each recipe combination offers money-saving pricing and total savings for delicious healthful, quick, easy meals so that readers see what they save with every dish. The savings, and your repertoire of tasty, effortless meals, quickly add up on cooking. In these budget-conscious times, Sandra's Money Saving Meals truly hits home, offering "the maximum joy with the minimum kitchen and grocery shopping stress."
My thoughts:
Love this new cookbook! I have other of Sandra Lee's previous books, and I often watch her show. I have long been a fan. I have used many of her recipes and find them generally simple to make, budget-conscious, and delicious.
After I received Money Saving Meals & Round2 Recipes a few days ago, I spent a couple of hours pouring over the recipes and photographs. I marked many of the 149 that I wish to try right away, like: Zucchini Cakes; Asparagus and Tomato Tart (using a frozen store bought pie shell); Blueberry Scones with Lemon Glaze. My husband and I like veggies, so the Asparagus dish is one that will make a nice meal for two people, with leftovers.
As a reviewer and cookbook collector, I try to look at the cookbook from a buyer's perspective. What would I find if I opened it physically in the bookstore or library. What type of recipes would I find; who is the cookbook directed toward; are there nice photos; are there charts, etc.; what are some unique aspects of the cookbook. As an experienced cook and having won my share of awards, I feel that I am able to judge whether the book is worth buying and I try to impart this to the reader.
In my opinion, this is a very nice cookbook with lots of color photos, and which offers tips on how to be a smart shopper and coupon user. The recipes also appear to be simple to recreate, as most of Sandra Lee's have been in the past. If you are looking for a cookbook that offers quick, but unique and tasty meals, this is one that I recommend.
(Thank you to Hyperion for my review copy.)
Monday, October 17, 2011
Living Beyond Your Feelings
Author: Joyce Meyer
Hardcover: 288 pages
Publisher: FaithWords
(September 6, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0446538523
Book Description:
The average person has 70,000 thoughts every day, and many of those thoughts trigger a corresponding emotion. No wonder so many of us often feel like we're controlled by our emotions. Our lives would be much improved is we controlled them.
In LIVING BEYOND YOUR FEELINGS, Joyce Meyer examines the gamut of feelings that human beings experience. She discusses the way that the brain processes and stores memories and thoughts, and then - emotion by emotion - she explains how we can manage our reactions to those emotions. By doing that, she gives the reader a toolbox for managing the way we react to the onslaught of feelings that can wreak havoc on our lives.
In this book, Meyer blends the wisdom of the Bible with the latest psychological research and discusses: the 4 personality types and their influence on one's outlook, the impact of stress on physical and emotional health, the power of memories, the influence of words on emotions, anger & resentment, sadness, loss & grief, fear, guilt & regret, the power of replacing reactions with pro-actions, and the benefits of happiness.
My thoughts:
How many times each day do we ladies get our feelings hurt or respond in some hurtful way to family, friends, or co-workers? If you are like me, it is difficult, at times, to control emotions and live in a God-centered way. Joyce Meyers is someone we can count on to set us on the right course so that we can live the life of joy that God has designed for us. In her new book, Living Beyond Your Feelings, Ms. Meyers offers us tools for our Christian journey. She explains the basic personality types, old memories, stress, fear, etc, and how those things play into our everyday experience and relationships. Finally, we can learn to control our emotions and live in peace with those around us. This is another home-run book by Joyce Meyers!
(Thank you to Hachette Book Group for my free review copy.)
Hardcover: 288 pages
Publisher: FaithWords
(September 6, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0446538523
Book Description:
The average person has 70,000 thoughts every day, and many of those thoughts trigger a corresponding emotion. No wonder so many of us often feel like we're controlled by our emotions. Our lives would be much improved is we controlled them.
In LIVING BEYOND YOUR FEELINGS, Joyce Meyer examines the gamut of feelings that human beings experience. She discusses the way that the brain processes and stores memories and thoughts, and then - emotion by emotion - she explains how we can manage our reactions to those emotions. By doing that, she gives the reader a toolbox for managing the way we react to the onslaught of feelings that can wreak havoc on our lives.
In this book, Meyer blends the wisdom of the Bible with the latest psychological research and discusses: the 4 personality types and their influence on one's outlook, the impact of stress on physical and emotional health, the power of memories, the influence of words on emotions, anger & resentment, sadness, loss & grief, fear, guilt & regret, the power of replacing reactions with pro-actions, and the benefits of happiness.
My thoughts:
How many times each day do we ladies get our feelings hurt or respond in some hurtful way to family, friends, or co-workers? If you are like me, it is difficult, at times, to control emotions and live in a God-centered way. Joyce Meyers is someone we can count on to set us on the right course so that we can live the life of joy that God has designed for us. In her new book, Living Beyond Your Feelings, Ms. Meyers offers us tools for our Christian journey. She explains the basic personality types, old memories, stress, fear, etc, and how those things play into our everyday experience and relationships. Finally, we can learn to control our emotions and live in peace with those around us. This is another home-run book by Joyce Meyers!
(Thank you to Hachette Book Group for my free review copy.)
How To Defeat Harmful Habits
Author: June Hunt
Paperback: 432 pages
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers
(October 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0736923292
Book Description:
Respected Christian counselor and founder of Hope for the Heart ministries June Hunt knows that countless lives are impacted and detoured by addictions. People are desperate for answers. They are hungry for hope.
In this insightful book, June provides compassionate biblical guidance to help readers recognize addictive impulses and habits, set boundaries, seek help, and trust the power of Christ and God’s Word to release them from the hold of addictions including:
overeating
alcohol and drug abuse
sexual addiction
codependency
anorexia and bulimia and more
For those struggling with addiction or watching a loved one caught in its destructive cycles, this is an encouraging resource of lasting answers and a path to healing God’s way.
My thoughts:
This would be a very helpful book for any Christian pastor, or councilor. The information is written in simple to understand terminology and based on Christian principles. It contains over 400 pages of excellent advice on common addictions, from anorexia to gambling addiction. It is also filled with question and answer sections and inspiring scriptures.
(Thank you to Harvest House Publishers for my free review copy.)
Paperback: 432 pages
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers
(October 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0736923292
Book Description:
Respected Christian counselor and founder of Hope for the Heart ministries June Hunt knows that countless lives are impacted and detoured by addictions. People are desperate for answers. They are hungry for hope.
In this insightful book, June provides compassionate biblical guidance to help readers recognize addictive impulses and habits, set boundaries, seek help, and trust the power of Christ and God’s Word to release them from the hold of addictions including:
overeating
alcohol and drug abuse
sexual addiction
codependency
anorexia and bulimia and more
For those struggling with addiction or watching a loved one caught in its destructive cycles, this is an encouraging resource of lasting answers and a path to healing God’s way.
My thoughts:
This would be a very helpful book for any Christian pastor, or councilor. The information is written in simple to understand terminology and based on Christian principles. It contains over 400 pages of excellent advice on common addictions, from anorexia to gambling addiction. It is also filled with question and answer sections and inspiring scriptures.
(Thank you to Harvest House Publishers for my free review copy.)
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Why Men Hate Going to Church
Author: David Murrow
Publisher: Thomas Nelson Publishing
My thoughts:
Why is it when we look around us in many churches, we see women, children, and elderly persons, for the most part? Since I have wondered this, myself, many times, it is good to see someone make an attempt at answering the puzzle. David Murrow in “Why Men Hate Going to Church” asks this important question, “What is it about modern Christianity that is driving men away?" What is it that men need from their church leaders and the church environment? What are the outreach methods that pastors, perhaps, are missing? While many churches are going strong and are filled with fathers and husband, sons and brothers, in many churches seats go unfilled by the men of a community. “Why Men Hate Going to Church” contains chapters like: Who Are the Missing Men; Men and Contemporary Worship; Twelve Things Men Fear About Church; How Churches Feminize Over Time; How Churches Drive Boys Away From the Faith; Why Megachurches Are Mega; Teaching and Men; What About Women; How Men Minister to Others; and many more interesting chapters. This is an important book for anyone who would minister to men, especially. I highly recommend it as food for thought. (Thank you to Thomas Nelson Publishing for my free review copy.)
Publisher: Thomas Nelson Publishing
My thoughts:
Why is it when we look around us in many churches, we see women, children, and elderly persons, for the most part? Since I have wondered this, myself, many times, it is good to see someone make an attempt at answering the puzzle. David Murrow in “Why Men Hate Going to Church” asks this important question, “What is it about modern Christianity that is driving men away?" What is it that men need from their church leaders and the church environment? What are the outreach methods that pastors, perhaps, are missing? While many churches are going strong and are filled with fathers and husband, sons and brothers, in many churches seats go unfilled by the men of a community. “Why Men Hate Going to Church” contains chapters like: Who Are the Missing Men; Men and Contemporary Worship; Twelve Things Men Fear About Church; How Churches Feminize Over Time; How Churches Drive Boys Away From the Faith; Why Megachurches Are Mega; Teaching and Men; What About Women; How Men Minister to Others; and many more interesting chapters. This is an important book for anyone who would minister to men, especially. I highly recommend it as food for thought. (Thank you to Thomas Nelson Publishing for my free review copy.)
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
The Lament (Selected Poems and Prose_
Author: Ercell H. Hoffman
Paperback: 118 pages
Publisher: Outskirts Press
(June 20, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1432743465
Book Description:
The Lament captures the full range of emotion that whirl around human relationships. Here are dozens of poems examining the profound joy of those deeply in love, the incredible longing of the separated partner, the intense loneliness of modern working life, and - above all - the indisputable necessity of connecting with people around us. Poet Ercell H. Hoffman casts a penetrating gaze on our everyday emotions, revealing our extraordinary capacity for feeling, empathy, and love.
In "Lost to the Moment," the speaker relishes the irreplaceable first blush of fledgling love that sweeps through her body "like a cool summer breeze." "This Afternoon" explores the painful possibilities of a love that might have been - that "I knew could not blossom." "Stay Heart Stay" is about the undying fire for another that refuses to be extinguished despite considerable hurdles. Meanwhile, other poems examine relationships in the contemporary workplace, revealing a deeply unsatisfying existence: "The Factory" looks at the peculiarly disconnected relationships among underappreciated factory workers, while "On the JOB" tackles the boredom of a career that's anything but busy.
Chock full of penetrating insights into the heart, The Lament is about our most basic needs: finding and keeping love and obeying your inner truth.
My thoughts:
I tend to approach books of poetry with a bit of trepidation, knowing that the poet's soul lies bare within the pages of their collections. I wasn't sure what I would find in The Lament or how I would write a positive review if I didn't enjoy or relate to the work. But I must say that I was very pleasantly surprised with this author. The Lament (Selected Poems and Prose) is insightful; beautiful and emotional; intense yet humble. Ercell H. Hoffman understands the human condition and is able to put into words the feelings most of us are unable to articulate. I especially liked The Birth of a Poem. I will proudly keep this volume alongside more prominent poets. If you enjoy poetry, I highly recommend The Lament. 5 stars*****
(Many thanks goes to the author for my free review copy.)
Paperback: 118 pages
Publisher: Outskirts Press
(June 20, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1432743465
Book Description:
The Lament captures the full range of emotion that whirl around human relationships. Here are dozens of poems examining the profound joy of those deeply in love, the incredible longing of the separated partner, the intense loneliness of modern working life, and - above all - the indisputable necessity of connecting with people around us. Poet Ercell H. Hoffman casts a penetrating gaze on our everyday emotions, revealing our extraordinary capacity for feeling, empathy, and love.
In "Lost to the Moment," the speaker relishes the irreplaceable first blush of fledgling love that sweeps through her body "like a cool summer breeze." "This Afternoon" explores the painful possibilities of a love that might have been - that "I knew could not blossom." "Stay Heart Stay" is about the undying fire for another that refuses to be extinguished despite considerable hurdles. Meanwhile, other poems examine relationships in the contemporary workplace, revealing a deeply unsatisfying existence: "The Factory" looks at the peculiarly disconnected relationships among underappreciated factory workers, while "On the JOB" tackles the boredom of a career that's anything but busy.
Chock full of penetrating insights into the heart, The Lament is about our most basic needs: finding and keeping love and obeying your inner truth.
My thoughts:
I tend to approach books of poetry with a bit of trepidation, knowing that the poet's soul lies bare within the pages of their collections. I wasn't sure what I would find in The Lament or how I would write a positive review if I didn't enjoy or relate to the work. But I must say that I was very pleasantly surprised with this author. The Lament (Selected Poems and Prose) is insightful; beautiful and emotional; intense yet humble. Ercell H. Hoffman understands the human condition and is able to put into words the feelings most of us are unable to articulate. I especially liked The Birth of a Poem. I will proudly keep this volume alongside more prominent poets. If you enjoy poetry, I highly recommend The Lament. 5 stars*****
(Many thanks goes to the author for my free review copy.)
Rumor Has It
Author: Jill Mansell
Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark
(May 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402237502
Book Description:
Would you be tempted?
Newly single, Tilly Cole impulsively accepts a job offer in a small town as a "Girl Friday." Fun job, country house, fresh start, why not? But soon she finds herself in a hotbed of gossip, intrigue, and rampant rivalry for the town's most desirable bachelor-Jack Lucas.
Rumors of Jack's "love 'em and leave 'em" escapes abound, and Tilly decides to do the mature, sensible thing... avoid Jack at all cost. But the more time Tilly spends with Jack, the more the rumors just don't make sense. Tilly doesn't know what to believe... and Jack's not telling.
(thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark for my free review copy.)
Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark
(May 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402237502
Book Description:
Would you be tempted?
Newly single, Tilly Cole impulsively accepts a job offer in a small town as a "Girl Friday." Fun job, country house, fresh start, why not? But soon she finds herself in a hotbed of gossip, intrigue, and rampant rivalry for the town's most desirable bachelor-Jack Lucas.
Rumors of Jack's "love 'em and leave 'em" escapes abound, and Tilly decides to do the mature, sensible thing... avoid Jack at all cost. But the more time Tilly spends with Jack, the more the rumors just don't make sense. Tilly doesn't know what to believe... and Jack's not telling.
(thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark for my free review copy.)
Miranda's Big Mistake
Author: Jill Mansell
Paperback: 496 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark
(June 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 140221832X
Book Description:
Miranda's track record with men is horrible.
Her most recent catastrophe is Greg. He seems perfect—gorgeous, witty, exciting. And he and Miranda are in love… until Miranda discovers he left his wife when he found out she was pregnant.
With the help of her friends, Miranda plans the sweetest and most public revenge a heartbroken girl can get. But will Miranda learn from her mistake, or move on to the next "perfect" man and ignore the love of her life waiting in the wings…
Even the worst mistake of your life can lead to true love in the end…
(thank you to SourceBooks Landmark for my free review copy.)
Paperback: 496 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark
(June 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 140221832X
Book Description:
Miranda's track record with men is horrible.
Her most recent catastrophe is Greg. He seems perfect—gorgeous, witty, exciting. And he and Miranda are in love… until Miranda discovers he left his wife when he found out she was pregnant.
With the help of her friends, Miranda plans the sweetest and most public revenge a heartbroken girl can get. But will Miranda learn from her mistake, or move on to the next "perfect" man and ignore the love of her life waiting in the wings…
Even the worst mistake of your life can lead to true love in the end…
(thank you to SourceBooks Landmark for my free review copy.)
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Cyber Meltdown
Author: Ron Rhodes
Paperback: 288 pages
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers
(August 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0736944176
Book Description:
Respected Bible scholar Ron Rhodes, author of The Coming Oil Storm, addresses another timely issue with integrity in this exploration of how over-dependence on technology puts the nation at risk for cyberattacks and sets the stage for the end times.
With up-to-date information, Rhodes prepares readers for the possibility of technology-based warfare and helps them view it in a biblical context as he addresses the following hot topics:
what Christians need to know about cybercontrol and the Antichrist
what technology and security experts have to say about the risks
the validity of the threat of cyberterrorism
what a cyberattack against the U.S. would look like
the possible role of cyberattacks in end-time wars
Both captivating and helpful, this compelling resource provides the truth behind the technology and its likely role in God’s plan for the future.
My thoughts:
This is a terrific read for those who are following Bible prophecy and the end-times. It covers end-times wars and the dangers in modern technologies. For anyone who has ever wondered how computer viruses spread or how terrorists can use cyberspace against the USA and our countries, this important book gives us the answers. Christians are warned in Holy Scripture to watch the signs of the times and to use them as a way of recognizing the end days. Cyber Meltdown will certainly open the eyes of the reader. There is not a lot serenity in this book, though, so be aware that it may be upsetting to sensitive readers. Highly recommend. Thank you to Harvest House Publishers for my review copy.
Paperback: 288 pages
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers
(August 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0736944176
Book Description:
Respected Bible scholar Ron Rhodes, author of The Coming Oil Storm, addresses another timely issue with integrity in this exploration of how over-dependence on technology puts the nation at risk for cyberattacks and sets the stage for the end times.
With up-to-date information, Rhodes prepares readers for the possibility of technology-based warfare and helps them view it in a biblical context as he addresses the following hot topics:
what Christians need to know about cybercontrol and the Antichrist
what technology and security experts have to say about the risks
the validity of the threat of cyberterrorism
what a cyberattack against the U.S. would look like
the possible role of cyberattacks in end-time wars
Both captivating and helpful, this compelling resource provides the truth behind the technology and its likely role in God’s plan for the future.
My thoughts:
This is a terrific read for those who are following Bible prophecy and the end-times. It covers end-times wars and the dangers in modern technologies. For anyone who has ever wondered how computer viruses spread or how terrorists can use cyberspace against the USA and our countries, this important book gives us the answers. Christians are warned in Holy Scripture to watch the signs of the times and to use them as a way of recognizing the end days. Cyber Meltdown will certainly open the eyes of the reader. There is not a lot serenity in this book, though, so be aware that it may be upsetting to sensitive readers. Highly recommend. Thank you to Harvest House Publishers for my review copy.
Keys to the Castle
Author: Donna Ball
Paperback: 336 pages
Publisher: Berkley Trade
(January 4, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0425239306
Book Description:
The author of the Ladybug Farm series delivers an exhilarating new novel of a middle-aged woman who follows her heart to love and happiness.
When a dashing French poet swept forty-something workaholic Sara Graves off her feet, she did something completely unexpected: She married him. Then three weeks later he died, leaving her a house she can't afford to keep in a country she's never been to. Traveling to France to settle the estate, Sara is shocked to discover that her husband wasn't the impoverished poet he claimed to be- and that the estate he left her is a 400-year-old crumbling castle in the Loire Valley. Now Sara must sell Chateau Rondelais before it (not to mention her late husband's disarmingly handsome lawyer and best friend) makes her question her decision to leave-and opens her heart to change and all its unexpected possibilities.
My thoughts:
Sara Graves has fallen in love with and married a man that she knows very little about, other than he is a handsome French poet. Shortly after the marriage he dies and leaves her with the responsibility of settling his estate in France. Upon arriving in France, where the laws and customs are foreign to Sara, she finds that her deceased husband was the owner of a castle which she must sell. This story is about lost love, finding a new romance, and an unexpected mid-life decision.
Like other Donna Ball novels, this one is well-written, delightful with unexpected twists and turns, and moves along swiftly. Ms. Ball has become one of my favorite authors! Thank you goes to her for my review copy. 5 stars*****
Paperback: 336 pages
Publisher: Berkley Trade
(January 4, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0425239306
Book Description:
The author of the Ladybug Farm series delivers an exhilarating new novel of a middle-aged woman who follows her heart to love and happiness.
When a dashing French poet swept forty-something workaholic Sara Graves off her feet, she did something completely unexpected: She married him. Then three weeks later he died, leaving her a house she can't afford to keep in a country she's never been to. Traveling to France to settle the estate, Sara is shocked to discover that her husband wasn't the impoverished poet he claimed to be- and that the estate he left her is a 400-year-old crumbling castle in the Loire Valley. Now Sara must sell Chateau Rondelais before it (not to mention her late husband's disarmingly handsome lawyer and best friend) makes her question her decision to leave-and opens her heart to change and all its unexpected possibilities.
My thoughts:
Sara Graves has fallen in love with and married a man that she knows very little about, other than he is a handsome French poet. Shortly after the marriage he dies and leaves her with the responsibility of settling his estate in France. Upon arriving in France, where the laws and customs are foreign to Sara, she finds that her deceased husband was the owner of a castle which she must sell. This story is about lost love, finding a new romance, and an unexpected mid-life decision.
Like other Donna Ball novels, this one is well-written, delightful with unexpected twists and turns, and moves along swiftly. Ms. Ball has become one of my favorite authors! Thank you goes to her for my review copy. 5 stars*****
Night Night Blessings
Author: Amy Parker
Illustrator: Marijan Ramljak
Reading level: Baby-Preschool
Board book: 20 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson; Brdbk edition
(October 11, 2011)
ISBN-10: 1400318254
My thoughts:
Night Night Blessings by Amy Parker, illustrated by Marijan Ramljak, is a delightful and colorful board book for little ones to have read to them as they go to sleep at night. It helps children realize and understand that God has provided blessing for them throughout their day; that God is loving, giving, and personal, caring about his children. It teaches them at an early age to look for and appreciate the wonderful things they freely receive, that the important things are the free gifts from their Creator. It is a book of gratitude above all else. What a pleasant way for little ones to go to sleep at night! The child in Night Night Blessings thanks God for various blessings like the food we eat; the games we play and the fun we have; our pets and how much they love us; favorite toys; home and family; little things like a bubble bath; daddy’s prayers and mommy’s kisses; and the beautiful world God has made and His love for us. It is written in rhyme and the illustrations are very sweet. The popular children’s book Night Night Prayer was also written by this author. Thank you to Thomas Nelson Publishers for my review copy.
Illustrator: Marijan Ramljak
Reading level: Baby-Preschool
Board book: 20 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson; Brdbk edition
(October 11, 2011)
ISBN-10: 1400318254
My thoughts:
Night Night Blessings by Amy Parker, illustrated by Marijan Ramljak, is a delightful and colorful board book for little ones to have read to them as they go to sleep at night. It helps children realize and understand that God has provided blessing for them throughout their day; that God is loving, giving, and personal, caring about his children. It teaches them at an early age to look for and appreciate the wonderful things they freely receive, that the important things are the free gifts from their Creator. It is a book of gratitude above all else. What a pleasant way for little ones to go to sleep at night! The child in Night Night Blessings thanks God for various blessings like the food we eat; the games we play and the fun we have; our pets and how much they love us; favorite toys; home and family; little things like a bubble bath; daddy’s prayers and mommy’s kisses; and the beautiful world God has made and His love for us. It is written in rhyme and the illustrations are very sweet. The popular children’s book Night Night Prayer was also written by this author. Thank you to Thomas Nelson Publishers for my review copy.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Every Day A Friday (How To Be Happier 7 Days A Week)
Hardcover: 304 pages
Publisher: FaithWords (September 13, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0892969911
Book Description:
The title comes from research that shows people are happiest on Fridays. Pastor Joel Osteen writes how we can generate this level of contentment and joy every day of the week.
Known as a man who maintains a constant positive outlook in spite of circumstances, Osteen has described this message as a core theme of his ministry. Combining his personal experiences with scriptural insights and principles for true happiness, he shows readers how every day can hold the same promise and opportunities for pure joy that they experience at five o'clock on Friday.
My Thoughts:
When I started reviewing Every Day A Friday, it was my intention to read it all the way through like any other book, but once I read a page or two I decided to use it as a devotional. I would read a chapter or so each day. I got so excited about the universal truth of it that every morning after my reading I would post something about it on my FaceBook status! I couldn't help shouting about what a wonderful life this is. Joel Osteen just brings that out of the reader. I couldn't help it.
If you are looking for something uplifting, this is it! I could almost hear Joel's voice while I read his words. I could hear his laughter and imagine his bubbly personality. His message of positive thinking is infectious. The book is all about setting your mind on happiness and not letting negative people and feelings take over. It's about laughing at life, celebrating yourself, and living as Christ intended. I HIGHLY recommend it!!
(Thank you goes to Hachette Book Group for my review copy.)
Friday, September 9, 2011
Right From The Heart: Turning Your Day Toward God Devotional
Author: Bryant Wright
Hardcover: 400 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Gift edition (August 9, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1404190023
My thoughts:
Right From the Heart is a devotional book written for busy people who have limited time to devote to daily reading of the Scriptures, etc. It can be read in small inspirational doses and would be appreciated by both men and women alike. It helps the reader focus on the word of God and how it applies to life today. It is brief and each devotional can easily be read in a matter of 5 minutes or so. It is perfect for reading before going to sleep or in the morning hours before starting the day. Right From the Heart inspires us to live a life for Christ and to follow his example.
Right From the Heart is beautifully bound and would make a lovely gift for anyone, especially someone who is going through a rough time at the moment. After perusing my review copy, I gave it to my husband who is going through a difficult period. He tells me that he has enjoyed it very much and reads it daily.
I absolutely believe that Right From the Heart can possibly be a life changer for the person who is struggling with their health, faith, or any difficult life situation. Thank you to Thomas Nelson Publishing for my review copy.
Hardcover: 400 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Gift edition (August 9, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1404190023
My thoughts:
Right From the Heart is a devotional book written for busy people who have limited time to devote to daily reading of the Scriptures, etc. It can be read in small inspirational doses and would be appreciated by both men and women alike. It helps the reader focus on the word of God and how it applies to life today. It is brief and each devotional can easily be read in a matter of 5 minutes or so. It is perfect for reading before going to sleep or in the morning hours before starting the day. Right From the Heart inspires us to live a life for Christ and to follow his example.
Right From the Heart is beautifully bound and would make a lovely gift for anyone, especially someone who is going through a rough time at the moment. After perusing my review copy, I gave it to my husband who is going through a difficult period. He tells me that he has enjoyed it very much and reads it daily.
I absolutely believe that Right From the Heart can possibly be a life changer for the person who is struggling with their health, faith, or any difficult life situation. Thank you to Thomas Nelson Publishing for my review copy.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Burnt Mountain
Author: Anne Rivers Siddons
Hardcover: 416 pages
Publisher: Grand Central Publishing
(July 19, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0446566950
Book Description:
Hardcover: 416 pages
Publisher: Grand Central Publishing
(July 19, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0446566950
Book Description:
From one of our most acclaimed writers comes this dramatic tale of a well-born Southern woman whose life is forever changed by the betrayal of her mother and by the man she loves
Growing up, the only place tomboy Thayer Wentworth felt at home was at her summer camp - Camp Sherwood Forest in the North Carolina Mountains. It was there that she came alive and where she met Nick Abrams, her first love...and first heartbreak.
Years later, Thayer marries Aengus, a Irish professor, and they move into her deceased grandmother's house in Atlanta, only miles from Camp Edgewood on Burnt Mountain where her father died years ago in a car accident. There, Aengus and Thayer lead quiet and happy lives until Aengus is invited up to the camp to tell old Irish tales to the campers. As Aengus spends less time at home and becomes more distant, Thayer must confront dark secrets-about her mother, her first love, and, most devastating of all, her husband.
Growing up, the only place tomboy Thayer Wentworth felt at home was at her summer camp - Camp Sherwood Forest in the North Carolina Mountains. It was there that she came alive and where she met Nick Abrams, her first love...and first heartbreak.
Years later, Thayer marries Aengus, a Irish professor, and they move into her deceased grandmother's house in Atlanta, only miles from Camp Edgewood on Burnt Mountain where her father died years ago in a car accident. There, Aengus and Thayer lead quiet and happy lives until Aengus is invited up to the camp to tell old Irish tales to the campers. As Aengus spends less time at home and becomes more distant, Thayer must confront dark secrets-about her mother, her first love, and, most devastating of all, her husband.
My thoughts:
Thayer Wentworth, beautiful, independent, mischievous, and talented has always felt like the black sheep of the family. After her father's death, the only person she is truly close to is her grandmother, until she meets Nick Abrams, a love she will never truly forget. After Thayer and Nick's break-up, Thayer meets the eccentric Aengus, a professor of Irish lore, marries him and moves into her late grandmother's lavish home. Is Aengus the man Thayer is hoping for?
This is the story of an undying love and the tragic betrayal by one's own flesh and blood. It has elements of the supernatural and is a feast of lyrical pleasure. From beginning to end, the tale is told with elegance and power by an author who knows how to pull us in and make us feel as if we are a part of Thayer's story. I'm giving it 5 stars*****
Thank you to Hachette Book Group for my review copy.
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