I am a working mom of four children, who loves reading and writing books. This blog was created to share my reviews of the books I'm reading. I review for: Tyndale, Revell, Waterbrook/Multnomah, Thomas Nelson, Baker Publishing Group, Crown Publishing Group, Discovery House Publishers, and Charisma Media and any other publisher who'd like to send me their professionally edited manuscript.
Carousel
Saturday, December 22, 2012
Lighten Up (Body and Soul Series) by Angela Ruth Strong
I was bracing myself for a raw, gritty novel about adultery and the ramifications of adultery in a christian setting. This was not the case with this novel. The story is focused primarily on the daughter of a fallen pastor, who struggles with forgiveness and finds herself understanding the issues surrounding adultery/wanting someone else's spouse througout the book. The e-book format was very easy to read, and I enjoyed the story and the characters. The author did a great job of showing the reader that we are all human and we all fail to some degree. I think that this would be a wonderful book for a teen or young adult, because it is so clean. Teens and young adults would benefit from the message presented in this book - the subtle statements about dating and not trying to steal someone else's boyfriend/spouse etc. are great! The subject matter can be raw in and of itself, but there is nothing in this book that even gets close to being inappropriate. If you want a fast, easy, and very clean read with a christian message this is the book for you!
Friday, December 7, 2012
Where God Finds You by Anita Higman
Where God Finds You (40 devotions bringing Bible characters to life) by Anita Higman, is a very unique, and well written book. The author does something I have never seen before. She has hand picked forty characters out of the Bible, and has created a fictional account of their circumstances (making sure to not write anything into the stories that do not line up with the Bible). At the end of each brief story, she then inserts the bible passages where she created the story from so that the reader can fully read the verses, and gain a more comprehensive and thought provoking perspective. As an example, she has a chapter titled, "Pilate's wife." This is based on the scripture from Matthew 27:19, "Don't have anything to do with that innocent man." The author then creates a fictional account of what could have happened in Pilate's wife's bed chamber regarding her reaction to the dream she had as stated in the Bible. The author then has a section within the chapter that speaks to the reader about how this particular incident is applicable in our lives today.For instance, she points out that we all have dreams and possibly some supernatural things that may happen in our lives so that God (or possibly the Devil) can have opportunities to influence us. She finishes each chapter with questions regarding the reading that are truly thought provoking. I read in the author's notes in the back of the book that she smelled myrrh to get her mind and senses into the times that these characters lived in. As you can see from this statement, this author is trying to excite all of the senses as she tries to create an atmosphere of reality for the reader. I really believe this book breaks the mold of the typical devotional. Sometimes devotionals all seem very similar to me in the way that they are written, but not this one. If you want a creative, thought provoking devotional based on characters in actual scriptures, then this is the book for you. If you want to think out of the box, this is a book you will enjoy. It is around 233+ pages, so it is a nice size, but not overwhelming. I received this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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".
Monday, December 3, 2012
Graceful (Letting go of your try-hard life) by Emily P. Freeman
I had read the adult version of this book, and my teenage daughter saw this title and wanted to read it. She then chose to do a book report on it, which I thought was fantastic! This book is based on the fact that (pre-teen and teenagers) base their self worth on how others perceive them,and how they themselves feel based on other's expectations etc. My daughter conveyed to me that she really enjoyed how the author kept telling the reader that they are valuable just as they are, are there was no need to create a false self, and/or wear a false mask to portray someone that you're not. My daughter doesn't have a self confidence issue, but she expressed to me that some of her friends do, and that this book would be extrememely helpful to them is showing them their self worth. The book is very good at directing the reader to focus on their identity in Christ, not on what the world thinks and expects. I was very proud of my daughter that she chose to share this book with her classmates, and I believe she made an impact with the poster she made about this book and it's message. I would recommend that parents or grandparents or youth group leaders buy this book. It would also be a great small group study book for teenage girls. I received this book from the publisher. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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".
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Call of a coward: The God of Moses and the Middle-class housewife
This is an insightful book to delve deep into the question of "would you follow God's call on your life, even if it means giving up almost everything you know?". The author of this story shares her real-life experience in giving up what she had for something that she didn't know, but knew that it was God is in control of her familiy's life. ( This story is about being called as a missionary in a third world country). I liked the concept of this book because it makes the reader ponder your own life, and how you would respond to something like this - if this situation was presented to you, would you go for it? Even though I read alot, I believe that this book is an easy read. Some of the details could have been developed further, but overall the major concepts are addressed, and the issues are well presented. If you want to read something that challenges your thoughts and will make you consider or dream about what God may have for you, this is the book for you! I received this book from the publisher. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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".
Monday, October 22, 2012
My Journey to Heaven by Marvin J. Besteman
This book can be very comforting for someone who has lost someone, and if closure is needed. The author, Marvin, writes about his personal experience with Heaven when he temporarily visited during an illness. Marvin is shown to be an educated, sweet, godly man, who had no agenda other than to share the amazing things that he saw and felt. I was especially touched when he recounted what he saw regarding babies - his statements are interesting and may give some peace to someone who has lost a child, even right after conception. I also was moved when I read about his very special bond with his son-in-law, how he had called Marv "dad", and how he became so ill so quickly, and was then gone. Marv was able to see his son-in-law jumping up and down and totally healed and joyful, and that alone inspires a great longing for the wonders of Heaven. This book is very easy to read, and would be a good choice if you or someone you know needs comfort or hope for what happens to believers in Christ after death. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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".
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Fatal Distractions, conquering destructive temptations by Kay Arthur
This is a bible study that focuses on six of the seven "deadly" sins. This study can be used individually, or in a group setting. I thought that the study was well laid out, and right to the point (which means right to the heart!). The format is such that in a group setting you don't have to do homework, but it is set up that you are diligently focusing on the "sin" you are discussing, learning about bible verses that address that particular sin, and reflecting on what you think about it, and how it is applicable in your life. I did this study on my own, and I really liked it. It probably would have been better in a group setting, as I went through it very fast and did not need the instructions like "circle this" "underline that". It is my recommendation that this is used in a group setting for maximum benefit, although God's word does not return void in any setting, so no matter how or where this study is done, it will have great benefit. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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".
Grieving Gods Way (A 90 day devotional) by Margaret Brownley
I decided to give this book to my friend. The reason I did this is because I previewed it, and decided it was worth a try to help her, as she just lost a close brother to suicide. When previewing this book, I loved how the author immediately relates to the reader because she lost her son. I loved her writing style, and how the book is put together with 90 days of thoughts/poems/statements to come alongside the reader in their grief. Death is a hard topic to speak to anyone about, but I felt like this book was a very nice way to say that I cared enough to try to help her, but not too much of a in your face "get over your grief" type of book. I don't think that the author is saying that this is the only way that God wants you to grieve, I think that she was just trying to focus it on a Christian audience, who may be more receptive to her messages throughout the book. As this book will probably not be THE book to help a person get over their grief, I only gave it three stars. As a gift it is lovely, it is not deep, it is not backed by psychology. It is just nice.
The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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".
Escaping the Cauldron by Kristine McGuire
The book was so interesting to me. I literally could not put it down! The author shows the reader through her book that she intensely struggled with Christianity vs. the occult. The author takes the reader into a personal journey that exposes real, raw and candid struggles that the author had in her life, and how she was drawn into occult practices, i.e. witchcraft, acting as a medium and ghost hunting, among other activities. Ms. McGuire shows the redeeming nature of Jesus, and how she eventually puts off these activities and embraces her Christian roots, and has peace and is now an on fire Jesus follower. Each chapter is thought provoking, and has points at the end for personal reflection or discussion if this book is used as a group study piece. It is a little scary to read, as her spiritual (demonic) accounts are truthful, but it is not so scary that a teenager could not read it (but not a child!). I was truly amazed at this story and how it ended, and that the author was trying to show the reader the truth, but not in a prideful way. She matter -of- factly states what happened to her, and presents her views with authority. She weaves bible scriptures throughout the book to lead the reader to search for the truth behind her statements, which is very helpful. Trust me - you will want to read this book, it is interesting, and eye opening! The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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".
What a difference a mom makes by Dr. Kevin Leman
What a difference a mom makes - The Indelible Imprint a mom leaves on her son's life is a must read! This book is written by a Ph. D. who gives advice, information, and practical understanding for a mom into the life and workings of her son. I especially liked this book because I had three girls before I had my boy. Even though my son is very small, I can already tell that his physiology is different and that he will not be like his sisters. This book was funny to me because I do think boys are dirtier, louder, and this book explains the reasons why. I especially thought that the chapter that was titled, "Guess what his favorite body part is?" was very entertaining and enlightening coming from a mom that has very girly girls. If you need to learn about raising a boy the right way, or you are in the middle of the journey and need so practical and good advice, this is the book for you! You will not be sorry that you bought it! The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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".
Saturday, September 1, 2012
Everyday matters Bible for Women
Can you have a "favorite" bible? If so, then this one is mine! This New Living Translation bible is truly fabulous. This bible is specifically geared towards women, and busy women at that (but aren't we all busy!?). Major themes are introduced in a relatable and practical way, and essential spiritual foundations are taught. There are twenty four topics examined throughout, including simplicity, mentoring, acceptence, etc.and they are color coded so you can find what you are looking for quickly. There are over 140 amazing contributors who make impactful statements of interest including Philip Yancey and Kay Warren. I received the hardback copy and it is illustrated so beautifully, I really feel so happy every time I look at it! If you are looking for yourself or for a gift for a woman that you love, you will not regret purchasing this wonderful Bible created in partnership with Christianity Today's womens magazine. I received this Bible in return for an honest review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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".
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
From the Library of C.S. Lewis
From the Library of C.S. Lewis - Selections from writers who influenced his spiritual journey compiled by James Stuart Bell is a hard hitting, extremely in-depth compilation of the masters of literature. This book is not an easy read, but it is a true reflection of the true masters of literature that influenced C.S. Lewis, as everything in this book was pulled from his actual library collection. This book is divided by topic into eighteen chapters, with the literary selections fitting into the appropriate chapter. Each selection is one page long, and authorship ranges from 1200 AD to early 20th century. I did not recognize many authors besides Martin Luther, but I have not studied this type of literature (to my detriment of course!). This is not a book that you sit down and read cover to cover. This is a book that you must actively focus on what is being said - and then you must think about it some more. It is not an easy read by ANY means, and I did not necessarily learn much about why these pieces of literature influenced Lewis other than that they are classics - but I did get a taste of many different writers whom I would NEVER have read from had I not been presented with this format and material. If you have a major bookworm in your sphere, then this would be a great collector's piece. I am rating this four stars because of the material presented, but not necessarily for the ease of reading it. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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".
Monday, August 20, 2012
Eyes of Justice by Lis Wiehl
This is the final novel in the Triple Threat Club series, a highly suspenseful and dramatic crime series by Lis Wiehl. Without giving too much away, one of the members of the Triple Threat Club is no longer an active part of the storyline, and a new member is introduced and developed in this story. An elusive and cunning cold-blooded killer is hunting the Triple Threat girls, and the brutality exhibited toward the characters is unsettling to say the least. Christian messages are discreetly woven within the story, and overall it is interesting and fast paced. I didn't really like the fact that one of the previous members was taken out of this story, and I also didn't like it as much as the last book in the series, which was a five star read. Overall, you should read this if you want to finish the series, but otherwise it would be a confusing read. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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".
Thursday, August 9, 2012
Raising Financially Confident Kids by Mary Hunt
Raising financially confident kids by Mary Hunt is really a must-read for parents of children (of any age). As the founder of Debt-Proof Living, Mary is obviously very knowledgeable on debt, and finances. Mary herself was at one point in financial crisis, with almost insurmountable debt to her name (over $100,000). The family paid off their debt, and also developed a plan for their children, which Mary outlines in this book. In essence, the family would give each boy a salary at a certain age, and they would have to be fiscally responsible for meeting most of their own needs every month. Mary teaches on how our children are bombarded with materialism, and how to combat the incorrect teachings on debt and consumerism. Mary teaches you how to educate your children about banking, saving, spending, identifying need vs. want, compounding interest, and other very important topics. I espcially liked the fact that Mary was age specific in her do's and dont's, such as do let your pre-schooler see you deposit money in the bank, but don't take them shopping with you at the store or mall etc. The author was spot on in her teaching, and I love ALL of her books, including this one. Please do yourself, and your children a favor, and buy this book! The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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".
Saturday, July 14, 2012
Enough: Finding more by living with less
Enough is a painful read. Not in a bad way, in the way that makes you squirm because you know that the author is 100% right in what he is saying, so much so that the reader must make a perspective change, not doing so would be denying the reality and truthfulness of this book! The author, Will Davis Jr., poses the question to the reader, "How much is enough?" If you live in the U.S., the answer is, what you have is enough, or MORE than enough. The author challenges our status quo thinking by bringing in real examples of people across the globe and their financial positions, to show that most of us are delusional in thinking that we always need more. In fact, the author challenges the reader to make do with less, give a lot more away, and live with less! Biblical truths are interweaved within this book, as are staggering statistics, including that less than 10% of Christians actually tithe (a biblical request/command). Will Davis Jr. really hits home that we miss out on spiritual blessings because we don't believe we should live with less or give more, we are in bondage to our things and taking care of them, and with examples he shows that not only are those who live with less or give more, are enormously blessed it is essentially the way that Christ calls us to live. This book continued to open up my eyes and heart to a continual change of perspective and I whole heartedly recommend this book!The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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.
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Fearless The Adam Brown story
Fearless : The undaunted courage and ultimate sacrifice of navy SEAL team six operator Adam Brown is an amazing story of a true American hero. I was amazingly, pleasantly surprised at how much I loved this book. Adam's story is truly that of how God can turn something bad into something amazing! Adam struggled with drugs after high school and was headed for destruction, until he found God and his calling in the military. I was truly captivated with his life story, and could not believe that a man who had so many personal struggles could achieve the level of greatness in the SEAL program, which is highly selective and specialized. I loved reading about the details surrounding the SEAL program, and how Adam excelled, despite many curve balls in his life. The ending was obviously difficult and sad to read, but truly this man lived an amazing, extra-ordinary life, and made a difference in others's lives as well. I could not put this book down, and I think it would appeal to anyone interested in a good redemptive story centered around the SEAL program and the US Military. I highly recommend this book. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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".
Saturday, June 16, 2012
Choose Joy because happiness isn't enough by Kay Warren
Choose Joy because happiness isn't enough, is a very good book designed to show the Christian how to practically find joy when there is so much strife in the world we live in. The author defines joy as, "The settled assurance that God is in control of all the details of my life, the quiet confidence that ultimately everything is going to be all right, and the determined choice to praise God in all things." Using this as the basis of her book, the author shows the reader (through Biblical scriptural truths) that the Christian can choose to have joy amidst pain and suffering. I enjoyed how the author painted a picture of our lives akin to railroad tracks, with suffering and happiness running parallel to each other throughout our life experiences. This book brings to light that Jesus was full of joy, even though most Christians do not focus on this topic. The author also shows the reader that it is important to take care of yourself, which may seem selfish, but is in fact necessary to have joy. I have used quotes from this book in the last few weeks to encourage others, and especially Kay's definition of joy, and it has been well received. The book itself is not a page-turner, but it is good for ministry and may be helpful for those struggling with depression. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 :"GuidesConcerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Sunday, May 27, 2012
As Silver Refined By Kay Arthur
As Silver Refined, Learning to Embrace Life's Disappointments by Kay Arthur is probably one of the best books she has written. I have many of Kay's book's, and honestly they are ALL amazingly well-written, but I really love this book! Kay speaks to the reader about disappointments, things that we had hoped for that did not materialize, and the sovereignty of God. Kay Arthur teaches the reader that our disappointments are truly "His appointments" and that we have to trust in the creator of the universe that He has a plan and a purpose for our lives and that although sometimes we don't understand it or like it, He truly is in control. Kay uses a lot of Biblical truths throughout this book to back up each point that she makes, and the chapters are each amazing to read as a whole, or to easily jump to if you need to be ministered to or are ministering to someone else. I personally just encouraged a dear friend who is having a marriage crisis by jumping to chapter eight, "Peace amid the Pain" and was able to pull the message and the scriptures out of this chapter for my friend to have the promises of God to hold to during her trial. Other chapters are equally useful such as "When you feel you're a failure" and "Always in Triumph". I read the e-book version and also received this is softcover format, which has an amazing study guide in the back for a small group, or individual study. If I could give this book more than five stars, I would. This is really a MUST read! The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 :"GuidesConcerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
I Blame Eve Freedom from Perfectionism
I Blame Eve, Freedom from Perfectionism, Control Issues, and the Tendency to Listen to Talking Snakes is a very fun, informative, and entertaining read! The author, Susanna Foth Aughtmon is incredibly relatable, I honestly felt like we were sisters after I read the book! I love her writing style, it is humorous, engaging, and oh so true! She is not preachy, she is funny and witty and I honestly wish we were friends after I now feel like I know her. This book is so great, as you can see from some of the titles of the chapters, "I feel really sad there is pain in childbirth" and another one, "I don't like waiting" the book is extremely relatable in the topics and conversations that come up in society (and within ourselves). The author talks about how we all have the "Eden gene" and we all wish everything was glorious and beautiful and PERFECT, but the reality is that we live in a fallen world (because of Eve) and we are not in heaven, yet! The author uses scripture perfectly in this book to show you truth, and she does it in an entertaining way! The book helps the reader to understand that even though Eve made a grave mistake and we live in a fallen world with an Enemy (Satan - the snake) that comes along and tries to deceive us and steal away all the God has for us, we (live Eve) ultimately have a choice to live, let go of expectations and fears and lies, and let God take control of our life and let Him take control. I LOVED this book (I know I say this a lot, but I have received a lot of good books lately!) - and I really recommend that you read this, and buy it for your best girlfriend (or your wife), she will love you for it! I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 :"GuidesConcerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Monday, April 9, 2012
The Crossing: A Novel
The Crossing by Serita Jakes is classified as Christian Fiction. The basic premise of the story is that ten years prior, the main characters had all been affected dramatically by an experience that happened that traumatized them - when a masked gunman got on their bus and started shooting - killing a teacher. Claudia, one of the main characters, is married to an assistant DA, who delves into the mystery. If you like an investigative story line, with a twist that is a little disconcerting - you will like this book. The issues dealt with in this story are pretty rough, adultery, domestic violence, mental health issues, etc. This is not a light hearted read, so if you don't mind the issues presented, in a raw way, you will probably like this book. I am giving it 3 stars for the way it was written (a little disjointed and not as much character development that I would have liked), but for me personally the topics (although real) are not ones I like to read about a lot. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 :
"GuidesConcerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
"GuidesConcerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
I am Second by Doug Bender and Dave Sterrett
This is truly an amazing collection of stories, of people going through intense personal pain and life struggles, and how Jesus showed up in each and every one's life to help them discover His plans and purposes for their lives. I was captivated by every story, some were celebrities that I recognized and some were not. EVERY story was short, to the point, and POWERFUL! This is one of the best books I have read recently. You must read this book, it is awesome!I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 :
"GuidesConcerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising
"GuidesConcerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising
Mystery in Dark Island by T.A. Smith
Being a female (and an adult) I was a little apprehensive about reading and reviewing a novel geared toward boys. But, to my great surprise, I was overall pleased with this book and had no problem reading it, and getting into the story. This series is touted as (Christian) action-adventure, which in my personal opinion is a genre very much needed for boys. There are truly not alot of action-adventure books for boys that are (in my opinion) interesting, well-written, and clean (morally). This book accomplishes all of these things, and leaves the reader hungry for the next novel. From a Christian perspective, this book inserts spiritual thoughts and questions that Nic (the main character) deals with, without becoming overwhelming, tedious, or preachy. The plot is interesting, with Nic becoming stranded on an island that seems stuck in the past, with some interesting characters and a suspenseful story line. The main character is relatable (although from an adult's perspective I wanted a fully developed character and way more background information than was presented - but there is just enough information for a child) and I personally (as a parent) loved that moral, and character issues were addressed just enough as to not overwhelm the reader with an underlying message. You should for sure buy this book for your child/pre-teen, as it will surely get him excited about reading. I received this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 :
"GuidesConcerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising
"GuidesConcerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising
Friday, January 27, 2012
Small Space Organizing by Kathryn Bechen
Small space organizing, a room-by-room guide to Maximizing Your Space is a wonderful tool to help you get on track and stay on track with managing your stuff in your small or smaller than usual living space. Kathryn immediately makes you feel comfortable in your small space environment by assuring the reader that small living can really be comfortable living. Each chapter is organizing by room, and amazing organizing and de-cluttering tips are explained. I especially liked that the author has a list of resources at the end of every chapter pertaining to that specific chapter and gives website addresses so the reader can quickly and easily access extra organizing tools to purchase. I have a larger home, and by the time I was finished this, I wanted to live in a smaller one, or even trade in for an RV! She has some very good arguments for the benefits of small space living, and she also offers dialouge in the back of the book for conversations regarding small space living. I ablsolutely loved her quote from William Morris that says, "Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful". This is the premise and theme of this wonderful book. If you are considering downsizing, are overwhelmed with getting organized and need some serious direction with tools, or have to downsize a family member, this is the book for you! I received this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this inaccordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 : "GuidesConcerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising".
Sunday, January 8, 2012
7 Money Rules for Life by Mary Hunt
How to take control of your financial future is the subtitle of this very informative book on how to financially wise. The author, Mary Hunt, speaks with authority on the matter because she was in debt of over $100,000 - and managed to pay it all off in 13 years. Mary speaks from the heart about the bondage and vicious cycle of consumer debt, and details 7 proven rules regarding finances and financial prosperity and financial stewardship. Topics such as spend less than you earn and save for the future seem simplistic, yet so many people are not not even following these basic principles. The book is easy to follow, interesting to read, and applicable to daily financial goals and situations. I learned a few things, and was especially interested in her research on telling your money where to go, and was really excited about a suggestion about an online only money market account that I discovered pays WAY more interest than our local banks. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to be a better money manager, and/or someone who needs a compass to dig themselves out of consumer debt and bad habits. I received this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positivereview. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this inaccordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 : "GuidesConcerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising".
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Heart of Ice by Lis Wiehl
This is a fiction suspense/thriller novel, book number three in a series called "The Triple Threat Club". I have not read a fictional suspense crime novel in such a long time and am so happy that I picked this one up, it was SO GOOD! The story is based in Portland, Oregon, and centers around a sociopath female killer (Sissy, aka Elizabeth) and the Triple Threat Club members (all female): a newscaster, an FBI agent, and a prosecutor. Elizabeth doesn't let anyone stand in the way of her goals and aspirations, and is malicious to the extreme of murder to maintain her lifestyle. Elizabeth's life becomes enter twined with that of the women of the triple threat club as she spins her web and entices the reporter to be her best friend, all the while committing and masterminding crimes that the FBI agent is investigating. Although there are Christian undertones, I would not characterize this as a Christian novel, and the book has very mature and graphic topics. I personally loved this book and thought that the author did a great job keeping me totally captivated and would recommend that if you like crime or suspense novels to read this book. I received this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive
review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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.
review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)