Sex and the Single Christian Girl by Marian Jordan Ellis (Bethany House)

Disclaimer: This post contains Amazon Affiliate Links.


I read Sex and the Single Christian Girl: Fighting for Purity in a Rom-Com World in exchange for review from Bethany House. The book was written by Marian Jordan Ellis and published by Bethany House.

I wanted to review the book because I have been celibate for over 3 years. The book's description sounded good and I could not pass it up.

The book discusses how to maintain your purity in a rom-com (romantic comedy) world. In a romantic comedy, you have a girl, who likes a guy or vice versa. He may not be interested right away. At the end of the movie, the couple somehow ends up together. On page 11, Ellis said:

In a romantic comedy, everything wraps up in a beautiful little package in an hour and thirty minutes. but real life doesn't work that way. For one thing, there are never negative consequences for sex outside of marriage. In a rom-com world, everyone is happy, STD free, and blissfully strolling off into the sunset. 

Not to mention, in some rom-coms, the couple has hot, passionate sex before marriage. The audience cheers and cries for the couple, despite the couple has went against God's word. In church, the other week, the pastor discussed the television show, Scandal. He said people cheer for the mistress and the president to be together, while ignoring the president is married. Ellis also said on page. 13, that " we become desensitized to the immorality that has been wrapped up in a beautifully soft-lensed package."

Maintaining sexual purity or celibacy is hard enough without falling in love with the characters in a movie or a romance book.

The book was a good read. Now, I just need a kindle version for my Fire.

Praying for Boys by Brooke McGlothlin Book Review (Bethany House)

Disclaimer: This post contains Amazon Affiliate Links. I was provided a paperback copy of the book for review. All opinions are my own.


I read Praying for Boys: Asking God for the Things They Need Most, in exchange for honest review from Bethany House.

I wanted to read the book because I have boys--two special needs boys---and I need a lot of prayer. Prayer for patience, guidance, self-control, and support.

For new readers, I have two boys. My oldest, Brad is 13 years old, with Autism and ADHD. He has a history of seizures, but has not had one in years. Brad also has high cholesterol. Finally, Brad is mostly non-verbal and not fully potty trained.
Mental age: 3 to 4 years.

Kalen is 2 years old, with a global development disorder, which means 3 or more major life functions are impaired. Kalen just started walking around 29 months. He also has delays in talking and fine motor. Kalen also has a potential heart condition. Mental age: 12 months.

Raising SPED boys is no picnic. Each has their own unique needs and skill sets. Some days, I'm at my wits end. I have read books and taken a classes at church on parenting and special needs. I have a whole folder on both dropbox and google drive with special needs resources, I found online. My Kindle Keyboard has a lot of books from Amazon and Audible about special needs. You think, with all the
knowledge, I would be more experienced and prepared. Nope.

Straight Answers to 21 honest questions about prayer book review (Bethany House)

Note: This post contains Amazon Affiliate Links.

I read Straight Answers to 21 Honest Questions about Prayer by Charles Simpson, in exchange for honest review from Bethany House. I received a paperback version of the book.

I wanted to review the book because I struggle with my prayer life. I want to pray for the right things, using the right words, at the right time, without being redundant. and never ask me to pray out loud.

The book starting out asking What is prayer? The author talked about how his parents were Faith Missionaries, which meant they had no "visible means of support". The first passage, I highlighted discussed The Rewarder on Page 17.  "Hebrews 11:6 tells us that God is a rewarder of those who diligently seek him. There are three important words in that phrase: seek, diligently, and reward." Next, the chapter talks about people, who think they have a perfect comprehension of prayer. Prayer requires humility versus self-exaltation.

In the next chapter, the author talks about maturity and prayer. Simpson said how kids may pray for things desired, while adults need to reflect on "who he (God) is and what (God) wants." Simpson also says we need to acknowledge God and his presence.

Simpson provided a story about someone, who came to a prayer session unexpectedly. The stranger started praying as if he was "preaching to Jesus". The prayer was lengthy; and he "seemed to be informing God...of his religious knowledge". God was not in the prayer.

I am one of those folks, who get bored during lengthier prayer. My mind starts to wonder. I used to go to a baptist church in Atlanta. The deacons would pray each Sunday, each taking turns. Some deacons had short prayer and some had longer prayer. Who are they praying for and to? Are they praying to God? Are they praying to be heard? Are they praying for attention? Some was even redundant.

Other things I liked in the book:

• Pray about everything. It helps you develop a relationship with God. 
• The power of forgiveness
• Page 60: How does God want me to pray? (Gratitude, Praise, Worship)
• Hearing God when you pray. 

I loved the book. Each chapter also ends in discussion questions for thought and reflection. The book is available in paperback and kindle form. The book is also prime-eligible.

Real by Jamie Synder Book Review (Bethany House)

I read Real: Becoming a 24/7 Follower of Jesus
by Jamie Synder in exchange for Bethany House. I Received a paperback book for review. This post contains an Amazon affiliate link.

The book teaches people how to become a 24/7 follower of Jesus Christ. I been reading the book for a few weeks now and I love the book.

Awhile ago in Church, someone had said we need to be followers and not fans of Christ. So many Christians identify with Christ (like myself), but don't truly follow Christ's commands. Here I am a few years ago having premarital sex, yet going to church praising the Lord every Sunday. Cussing out relatives. Being disobedient to the word.

The book says there is a cost when we follow Christ, yet there is also a cost when we choose not to follow Christ.

"Truth never looks away. You can pretend truth doesn't exist, you can close the eyes of your heart, you can simply turn and look the other way, but truth never looks away or blinks." (p. 13).

"If Sunday din't exist, would anyone know you where a follower of Jesus?.....Most people conclude someone is a Christian or not based on that person's Sunday religious activities and behaviors. You may not even be inclined to advertise your faith, but inevitably if you attend church long enough, it will come out in conversation. So, if Sunday didn't exist, you would no longer have a building to point to as being the place you attend church...If Sunday didn't exist, we would no longer be able to use our Sunday activities as evidence that we are followers of Christ." (p. 15)

The second passage is what got me reading the book more. Snyder author said many Christians put so much emphasis on Sundays, yet not following Christ during the week. If your faith on Sunday does not align up with your beliefs then the week, then something has to change.

Each chapter in the book is short. Each chapter also has a reflection and discussion, in addition to a prayer. The first chapter's questions, for example, deals with how people view Sunday? Does your faith spin on the axis of Sunday? (p. 23). 

I loved the book. I do recommend the book as individual or small group bible study.

Jennifer by Dee Henderson Book Review (Bethany House)

I read Jennifer: An O'Malley Love Story in exchange for review from Bethany House. This post contains Amazon Affiliate links and images.


The book is about Jennifer O'Malley, a pediatrician, who is in love with Tom Peterson, a lawyer. Jennifer is the youngest of the family. Jennifer has to tell her family about her newest relationship, in addition to a secret she is hiding.

The book was a quick read. I loved reading the beginning of the book. It was interesting. The ending was sad though. The hardback is a little over 153 pages. The book is also available in Kindle and Audible format.

Return to Me Book Review, Blog Tour, and Giveaway (Litfuse)

I read Return to Me (The Restoration Chronicles Book #1), in exchange for honest review from Litfuse. The book was written by Lynn Austin and published by Bethany House. I received a paperback copy of the book. This post contains an Amazon affiliate link.

About the Book:(provided from Media Kit)

After decades of exile, the prophesies are coming true---King Cyrus has declared the Jews may return to Jerusalem. Iddo, a priest, is sure this is a sign of God's renewed favor. For too long they've remained in Babylon, and many, including Iddo's sons, are losing the faith that sets them apart. And so only a few choose toleave everything toreturn---return to their home and their God.

Nothing about their journey to the Promised Land is easy. As hardships mount, even the faithful, like Iddo's beloved wife, Dinah, question the sacrifice of following God's leading. Zechariah, Iddo's oldest grandson, feels torn between his grandfather's ancient beliefs and the family they left behind. But one life-changing encounter with the Holy One gives him insight that will change Zechariah---and history---forever.

Bringing the Old Testament to vibrant life, Return to Me tells the compelling story of two men living by faith in the midst of doubt, the women who love them, and the faithful remnant struggling to rebuild their lives in obedience to the God who beckons them home.

About the Author: (From Media Kit)

Bestselling author Lynn Austin has sold more than one million copies of her books worldwide. She is an eight-time Christy Award winner for her historical novels, as well as a popular speaker at retreats and conventions. Lynn and her husband have raised three children and live near Chicago.

My Review:

One of the reasons I chose the book was because of the description. The book is also based in biblical times. The book starts off with Daniel, 82 years old, been summoned to the palace by Nebuchadnezzar's grandson, Belshazzar to help determine the meaning of mysterious writing on the wall. The grandson summoned all of the mystical people, but had no success. This sounds similar in the bible, when Nebuchadnezzar summoned Daniel to translate a dream or was it Pharoah and Joseph. Babylon was falling quickly and people needed to change their ways. 

The book then moves into Iddo, a priest,  and his wife, Dinah. Something has happened in the city and a death has occurred. God's hand is in the midst of the crisis. Babylon is falling and no one is safe. The Jews have a desire to move back into the promised land. 70 years of exile is almost up. Some people's faith is shattered because of the long wait. Some have turned to false gods and astrology for answers, instead of God. 

The book was well-written and moved at a decent speed. It combines biblical history with fiction, similar to the Left Behind series  by Tim LaHaye and Jerry Jenkins. or the Babylon Rising series by Tim LaHaye and his co-authors. 

Giveaway (from media kit):

Lynn Austin is celebrating the release of Return to Me, the first book in her new Biblical fiction series, The Restoration Chronicles, with a Kindle Fire HDX giveaway and a Facebook Author Chat party.

One winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire HDX
• Return to Me by Lynn Austin

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on October 22nd. Winner will be announced at the "Return To Me" Facebook Author Chat Party on October 22nd. Connect with Lynn and friends for an evening of book chat, biblical trivia, prizes, and get an exclusive look at the next book in Lynn's Restoration Chronicles series!

So grab your copy of Return to Me and join Lynn on the evening of October 22nd for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today by clicking JOIN at the event page. Spread the word — tell your friends about the giveaway and party via FACEBOOK or TWITTER. Hope to see you on the 22nd!

Lifestyle of a Prophet: A 21 Day Journey to embracing your calling by James W. Goll (Book Review).

I read LifeStyle of a Prophet, in exchange for review from Bethany House. The book was written by James W. Goll and published by Chosen Books. I received a paperback version. 

I chose this book because I have no idea what my calling is. I know what I am good at, but is that what God wants me to do? I have done administration at a church before, but got tired of that quick. Basically, the church had a secretary and I was just helping do some work in Microsoft.  The church bought the software, but had no idea what to do next (besides train the secretary). The problems started when the pastor and secretary started calling my house multiple times per day, in a row sometimes, to get me to come in to work. I worked Third shift at a factory, plus was a new mother. I did not get home until 7 am. I needed my sleep. I didn't mind coming in, but not every day and not before 9 am. I was not going to spend all morning typing documents when I can do that at home. The secretary and I worked the same job, but different shifts. write it down and meet me in the parking lot. lol. I also love to read, write, organize, clean, cook, etc. 

But anyway, back to the book: The book is part instructional and part workbook. Each day provides a lesson, prayer, and questions. There is some space to jot down your answers. 

Some highlights which stood out in the first few readings: 

• Page 24: Selfish ambition is not the kingdom way. Promotion does not come from the Lord, but normally after you been in the game and endured a few rounds. 
• Page 25: Abandon any attempts to build your own kingdom or ministry  Forget about building your own empire. Build His Instead. Worship God passionately. Consecrate yourself to him to be his holy dwelling place. 
• Page 25: Do you want to experience the lifestyle of a prophet? It begins with intimacy. Surrender to Jesus and worship him. 
• Page 29 This is what the prophetic life and ministry are all about---human beings being filled with the breath of God, and then in turn exhaling onto others the breath of life they have received from their creator. 
• Question from Day 1: Consider the kind of friendship you desire to have with Jesus? What do you want that relationship to look like? (p.26). 
• Page 35: God wants to talk to you. He wants more than just the "right" answers so you can pass his tests. He wants to draw near to you. He is your adoring father and he cherishes his kids. Questions from the Lord are an invitation to merge from the place of hiding into transparent honesty and light. 

This was an excellent book. Excellent teaching tool, learning tool, and workbook. It also can be a small group bible study. 

The Spiritual Warrior's Guide to Defeating Jezebel: How to overcome the spirit of control, idolatry, and immorality

I read The Spiritual Warriors Guide to Defeating Jezebel: How to overcome the spirit of control, idolatry, and immorality by Jennifer LeClaire. The book was for review from Bethany House. I received a paperback version. I also been referencing the book on Celibacy Diaries, but this is the full review.

I chose this book because a) it was Christian-Based. b) it focused on idolatry. I been reading a lot about idolatry lately: in the celibacy course I was taking, at church, and in other books. Worshipping other gods besides God is idolatry--whether it is the internet, sex, or even your kids.

I was in a highlighting frenzy with this book. I am not done yet. This book was meant to be read slow because it highlights a lot of crucial points for me. I struggle with a lot of issues, but I did not realize idolatry was one of them. I have put other things before God and truly need to repent.

Some passages, which stood out: (cited directly with page numbers).

1. Page 17, Jezebels' greatest deception is convincing spirit-filled church goers that it is a power hungry, self-promoting, spirit of control that wants to cozy up to the pastor in order to gain a position of spiritual authority in the local church. this is partly true: Jezebel manifests with control and manipulation, but that is merely the low-hanging fruit of a rotten tree. 
2. Page 19: Where there is no repentance, immorality eventually sears the conscious. We are no longer sensitive to the spirit of God, yet we long for spiritual encounters...Compromised believers seek supernatural experiences and sometimes encounter demonic manifestations and visitations. 
3. Page 23: A Jezebelite is quick to encourage sin. A woman confides in her, for instance, that she is having sex out of wedlock. The jezebelite willa sure the woman that it is okay if she is in love, easing the guilt and glossing over any godly conviction the woman might feel. (I deal with this instance a lot, since being celibate. I have heard a few interesting reasons why I need to have sex, even though I am not ready, and I would be disobeying God's plan for sex). 
4. Page 30: The 21st century church is often willing to overlook sin because a person's gifts is bringing increase to a ministry. 
5. Page 31: Just because a church is flowing and growing does not mean it is healthy
6. Page 32: Sexual immorality is any sexual act outside of the covenant of marriage. Any sexual Act (I did not understand what sexual immorality was at first, but I have a better understanding. I assumed it included thoughts as well. Thoughts can lead to actions, so we need to learn to control our thoughts more.). 
7. Page 33: People have to make a series of conscious decisions along the road to sexual immorality, reasoning away the reality of sin and relying on God's grace to be there when they are finished pursuing their fleshy desires. Ouch. This one was a crucial point for me. How many times have I did something stupid, dumb, disobedient--knowing it was wrong---but did it anyway--only to repent after? Just because God has grace and mercy, does not mean we are supposed to continue to make the same mistakes over and over again. 
8. Page 36 But I do believe it is impossible to defeat what you are willing to submit to. In other words, you can not defeat the devil if you are submitting to the devil. You can not defeat Jezebel if you are not willing to resist Jezebel's seductions. This one was a hard one to read as well. If I am engaging in a particular sin, it is hard to defeat it, if I keep doing it over and over again. 

I loved the passages on sexual immorality and purity. Definitely helped me with other things. I still have a lot to work on, but with God all things are possible, provided I follow and obey his words and instructions. I will be posting more posts on this book, probably on Celibacy Diaries. This book was good insight into how a Jezebel spirit affects the church, in addition to individuals. 

Undeniably Yours By Becky Wade Book Tour

I reviewed Undeniably Yours by Becky Wade, in exchange for review from Litfuse. The book was published by Bethany House.

About the book: Copied from Litfuse:

When Meg Cole's father dies unexpectedly, she's forced to return home to Texas and to Whispering Creek Ranch to take up the reins of his empire. The last thing she has the patience or the sanity to deal with? Her father's Thoroughbred racehorse farm. She gives its manager, Bo Porter, six months to close the place down.

Bo knows he ought to resent the woman who's determined to take from him the only job he ever wanted. But instead of anger, Meg evokes within him a profound desire to protect. The more time he spends with her, the more he longs to overcome every obstacle that separates them and earn her love.

Just when Meg realizes she can no longer deny the depth of her feelings for Bo, their fragile bond is broken by a force from Meg's past. Can their relationship-and their belief that God can work through every circumstance-survive?

About the author: Copied from Litfuse: 

Becky Wade is a graduate of Baylor University. As a newlywed, she lived for three years in a home overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, as well as in Australia, before returning to the States. A mom of three young children, Becky and her family now live in Dallas, Texas.

Visit her website at www.beckywade.com

My Review: 

The book starts out with Meg reminiscing over her father. She does not want to be an oil tycoon. Her father, William just died. Meg never expected to be in this position. She does not want to run her father's business. She just spent weeks going through company financials, especially Whispering Creek, a large plot of land, which houses a horse farm. Meg hates horses. The advisors had encouraged Meg to fire employees, who may not fit into the company's future. She already had started firing people (the chauffeur, the kennel manager, and the gun range manager). Meg also wanted to fire Mr. Porter, who managed the horse farm. Meg wants to shut down the horse farm, even though it is close to making a profit. She gives Bo Porter 6 months to close the facilities

The first few pages are very descriptive. It does move kind of slow at first. Yet, the character is in grief, under stress, anxious, and not feeling her new roles. Then, boom, as Meg is reflecting on the last few weeks, Bo walks back into the office and says he is not closing down the horse farm. This was a scene changer for me. The book moves from focusing solely on Meg to now putting some focus on Bo. He wants to help make decisions concerning the farm, since he invested time and energy into this venture. Meg gave Bo six months to either break even or make a decision on what to do with the farm. The farm will also stay open until Bo breaks even. After this major impetus, the book gets good-real good. Bethany House offers a great selection of books and I knew this one would be great as well. 








Facebook Party and Giveaway:

Becky Wade is celebrating her latest swoon-worthy novel, Undeniably Yours (Bethany House), with a Kindle Fire giveaway and hosting an Author Chat party on Facebook {5/29}!

One winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• Undeniably Yours and My Stubborn Heart by Becky Wade
  

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on May 28th. Winner will be announced at the "Undeniably Yours" Facebook Author Chat Party on May 29th. Connect with Becky for an evening of book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! Becky will also share an exclusive look at her next book and give away books and other fun prizes throughout the evening.

So grab your copy of Undeniably Yours and join Becky on the evening of May 29th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 29th!

Tempted, Tested, True Book Review

I read Tempted, Tested, True, in exchange for review from Bethany House. The book was written by Arnie Cole and Michael Ross. I have discussed the book on my other blog, Celibacy Diaries, but have not done my full review for Bethany House. This is the full review.

I chose this book because I struggle with temptation. I struggle with anxiety. I struggle with women' struggles. I struggled with sex addiction. When I saw the book review list for Bethany House, I had to have this book. I had to have a print edition. When it comes to celibacy, abstinence, sex addiction, etc, there is a lot of information out there. There are plenty of books written, but not too many is written from a Christian perspective. I wanted practical, spiritual knowledge, and this book does that. I am glad I got chosen for this book. I did not read this book from start to finish. I started the book at the beginning, then moved to the sections on sex addiction and shame. A lot of good passages stood out and I marked them big time. The book also takes about alcohol, anxiety, shame, temptation, men struggles, women struggles, releasing the past, and unmasking the real you. for this review, I am choosing to focus on the things, which affected me personally.

Chapter 8 discusses the story of Mark and how he struggled with sexual sin (pornography). Porn helped Mark cope with stress. But over time, his heart became darker and more hardened (p. 167). He was pretending everything was ok, when everything was not. He was addicted. His wife called in an intervention with their pastor because she suspected something was wrong. One line, which stood out was Porn is a counterfeit that can ruin our ability to experience the real thing (p. 171). Pornography can also be an idol and the Lord does not allow us to put idols before him. The chapter also discussed accountability. People need an accountability partner when they are struggling with addiction. The book also discussed ways to move forward past porn and sex addiction(. I wrote the steps on my other blog Celibacy Diaries). The book also does nudges after each chapter, with spaces to write down thoughts and concerns. For example, the nudge for chapter 8 focuses on shaking the shame. The section allowed you to think and write about soul-robbing traps; why breaking free is hard for you; and what you would like for Jesus to help you with.

Then, the book moves into toxic shame. First, the book discusses the difference between shame and guilt. "Guilt has to do with our behavior, what we do; shame, has to do with our identity, who we are" (p. 180). "Toxic shame causes us to expect the worst from ourselves because we believe that's who we are inside"(p. 180). We must let go of those thoughts, which say we are a loser, a failure, a disappointment, no use to God, etc (p. 181). This is something I definitely struggle with. There is also an amazing chart on the characteristics of shame, with space to list specific examples and emotions (p. 184). P. 185 also has a spiritual life rating scale. I am a level 3 believer. The scale starts at skeptic, seeker, believer, grace-filled, and servant-minded. You look at the characteristics of each row and determine where you fall in.  a worksheet follows immediately after to note your results. You will need access to a bible to complete some of the notes.

Chapter 9 focuses on Danielle's story. Danielle discussed how even when she knew the right thing to do, she did the wrong thing anyway. I knew having a lot of sex with random men was wrong, but i did it anyway. suffered the consequences too. A few passages, which stood out:

• Temptation is big and it's sneaky, and it knows my weak spots. It can tell when I'm wavering and slip in a zinger at just the perfect moment--sending me right back to square one. It doesn't have to be that way. More and more, I realize, there is a way out. (p. 197)
• No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it (p. 198).
• Your sin is not unbeatable. Your temptation isn't too big for God. You aren't even close to being the only one tempted in that way (p. 200). 

Finally, I will focus on the four stages of Temptation (Chapter 2) p. 54)

1. Enticement: starts with a pang of desire. a thought, a fantasy. what ifs. then eventually the decision to commit. go through the stages of intimacy: sight, sound, smell, taste, touch. 
2. Conception: desire becomes strong. wants to conceive the real thing, whether it's sex, or drugs, or alcohol, whatever it is. we continue to engage with our temptor and ignore God more. 
3. Gestation and growth: sin continues to grow. it affects us mentally, spiritually, and physically. we know the sin intimately. we are enjoying our secret lives. the temptation begins to define us: thoughts, identity, purpose.  we don't consider the long-term effects of the sin. we continue to live in darkness and the light can not penetrate us. 
4. Delivery: the sin matures. it gives birth to death inside of us. 

This is definitely a good book. Definitely will keep reading as temptation shows up in my life. The book felt like more than a regular non-fiction. More than another book to read once. It provided practical, biblical knowledge to temptation and the consequences of each temptation. 

Unrivaled Book Review

I read Unrivaled, in exchange for review from Bethany House. The book was written by Siri Mitchell and published by Bethany House. I received a paperback version of the book.

The book is about Lucy Kendall, who wants to work in her father's candy business. Her father's business is failing, in addition to her father's health. Her father had a heart attack, while she was overseas. Lucy wants to run the business, but her family is against a woman running the business. Lucy just got back from a trip from overseas with new candies for her father to try. She also wanted to inspire him to create new candies. Lucy's mother has started selling personal items and wants to sell the candy factory. Lucy's mother wants Lucy to focus on Debuntante season and to find a good husband.

Enter Charlie. Charlie's father also operates a candy business. He is going through some rough times. He just got out of jail.  He doesn't really know his father, but his father wants Charlie to help run the business. Charlie is moving hundreds of miles away to help a father and family, he barely knows.  Charlie's company and Lucy's company are rivals. Charlie's company acquired Lucy's father's prized candy. His father is a serious business man, who is making money and expects loyalty.

Both Charlie and Lucy are working together to please their father. The book is a period piece. I loved reading the book.


About the author: (copied from Bethany House)
Siri Mitchell is the author of nearly a dozen novels, among them the critically acclaimed Christy Award finalists Chateau of Echoes andThe Cubicle Next Door. A graduate of the University of Washington with a degree in business, she has worked in many different levels of government. As a military spouse, she has lived in places as varied as Tokyo and Paris. Siri currently lives in the DC-metro area. Visit www.sirimitchell.com

Facebook: 

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A noble groom (book review and giveaway)

I read A Noble Groom, in exchange for review from Litfuse. The book was written by Judy Hedlund and published by Bethany house.

About the book: (COPIED FROM LITFUSE)
Annalisa Werner’s hope for a fairy tale love is over. Her husband failed her in every way and now his death has left her with few options to save the family farm. She needs a plentiful harvest. That, and a husband to help bring it in. Someone strong, dependable. That’ll be enough. A marriage for love…that’s something she’s given up on.

So her father sends a letter to his brother in the Old Country, asking him to find Annalisa a groom.

Then a man appears: Carl Richards, from their home country of Germany and a former schoolteacher–or so he says. He’s looking for work and will serve on the farm until her husband arrives.

With time running out, she accepts his help, but there’s more to this man than he’s admitting. He’s also gentle, kind, charming–unlike any man she’s ever known. But even as Carl is shining light into the darkness of her heart, she knows her true groom may arrive any day.

About the author: (Copied from Litfuse)

Jody Hedlund is an award-winning and bestselling historical fiction author. She won the 2011 Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award, the 2011 Award of Excellence from the Colorado Romance Writers and was a finalist for Best Debut Novel in the 2011 ACFW Carol Awards. Currently she makes her home in central Michigan, with her husband and five busy children. She loves hearing from readers on Facebook and on her blog. Find out more about Jody athttp://jodyhedlund.com/.

My Review:

I chose this book, based on the description. Annalisa has given up on love, but willing to marry for convenience. I have had this thought as well. I am getting older and I have two young kids. Sometimes, I am willing to re-marry for other reasons besides love (like stability and help with the kids). I also have read Hedlund's book, Unending Devotion, in exchange for review from Bethany House. I loved the imagery and scenery in Unending Devotion.

A noble groom is also a historical piece, set in the  late 1800's. The first scene was powerful. Annalisa's husband had stolen her money. Her daughter was also helping her gather nuts for the pending winter. Annalisa had to save all she could, especially with out a stable husband, helping to bring in income. She was angry and frustrated. Her husband, Hans, had a gambling problem. He gambled off their farm profits.  I definitely understood where Annalisa was coming from. A few hundred years ago (sometime in the early 2000's), my ex-husband got laid off. He told me that he did not qualify for unemployment. My check was also being garnished for student loans, so I already had to work more to make up for the missing funds plus still pay bills. I was working 7 days a week to cover all the bills, in addition to borrowing money from family and friends. Found out months later, my ex was collecting an unemployment check, but was not contributing to the household. He left the cash and receipts in his car. I was hurt. I don't know where his money was going or who, but it definitely hurt me.

Annalisa needed a husband to help with the family and the farm. Annalisa went to confront her husband with child in tow, and found her husband dead. (amazing scene). Annalisa's father wanted her to have a new husband to help out.

Sweet Sanctuary Book Review

I reviewed Sweet Sanctuary, in exchange for review from LitFuse. The book was written by Kim Vogel Sawyer and published by Bethany House.

About the author: (Copied from Litfuse)
Kim Vogel Sawyer is the author of twenty-one novels, including several CBA and ECPA bestsellers. Her books have won the ACFW Book of the Year Award, the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence, and the Inspirational Readers Choice Award. Kim is active in her church, where she leads women's fellowship and participates in both voice and bell choirs. In her spare time, she enjoys drama, quilting, and calligraphy. Kim and her husband, Don, reside in central Kansas, and have three daughters and nine grandchildren.


About the book: (paraphrased from Litfuse)

The book is about Lydia, who wants to find a safe haven for her son, Nicky. Nicky's father is drug-addicted and wants his son back. Dr. Micah, 36 years old,  Nicky's "father", on the other hand, works in Queens, New York, but has a secret mission. Both Lydia and Micah work together to find Nicky a safe place to go. 

My Review of the first few chapters.

First, the book is Christian-based. I am also a reviewer for Bethany House. I love their books. I chose this book because I felt for the mother and her son. Lydia wanted to keep her son safe. I want to do the same for my boys. I want to keep Brad and Kalen safe, secure, and free from harm.  Lydia also comes from a wealthy family. 

The book starts out with a letter to Micah, from Lydia' father, concerning Lydia and her son. Lydia was a nurse at an army base. , who left without explanation. The letter wanted Micah to care for and provide for his son. Micah has two weeks to respond to the letter or legal action will be taken by Lydia's family. Micah did not believe Nicky was his son and wondered why Lydia had told her parents he was. Nicky was a toddler, when the letter was written. Micah was also dealing with his brother's troubles. Micah decided to travel to Boston to handle this situation. The story gets real interesting after this: Micah gets to Boston; has an interesting conversation with Nicky, and then re-meets Lydia. Lydia had no idea Micah had received a letter from her father, let alone advance knowledge of his visit. Micah is not really Nicky's father, but Lydia's father still wanted him to take responsibility. If you keep reading the book, lies will be uncovered. Why does Lydia's father want Micah to take responsibility for Nicky? Is this why Lydia's father sent for him? What major lie is Lydia hiding from Nicky? Who is Nicky's real father?

This was the start of a great book (first 40 or so pages on my e-reader). I have not finished the book yet, but this is a good book. 

Learning to Love

I read Learning to Love, in exchange for review from Bethany House. The book was written by Heidi and Rolland Baker and published by Chosen Books,  a division of Baker Publishing Group.

The book discusses ministry in Africa. The authors founded Iris Ministries (since 1980) and are located in Mozambique. The book's introduction discusses how Iris Ministries was started in the United States and later expanded to the Philippines, Indonesia, and Hong Kong. They finally did mission work in Mozambique in the 1995. The authors mentioned a little girl, amputee, whose grandma wanted her stoned to death because the girl lacked use to the family. The girl had to sell her body for food and water. The authors realized helping her was an act of love.It was the gospel. I loved the story. It was compassionate, moving, inspirational. It was God's hand moving mountains. Showing love to someone don't require much. People need help, despite outward appearances. God can use anyone to do his work, his will. God can use anyone for the glory of the Kingdom.

I chose the book because it was different. I been reviewing more books lately, which has an higher purpose. I do not always need to read fiction. I can read Christian, Business, Childrens, etc. I can read books, which build me up and expand my knowledge base. The first 20 pages grabbed my attention big time. The book had four sections: passion and compassion; joy and suffering; going even lower; and not by might. The book was also less than 200 pages with Adobe Digital Editions. The book also has beautiful pictures of children throughout the book. The pictures are in black and white.

The book discussed God's love, joy, faith, hope, goodness,  grace, mercy, compassion. It also discussed serving others. The book also discusses developing a relationship with God. This was a great read. The book also discussed Heidi and Rolland's mission work in Africa. A wedding was the start of part 1. The authors helped plant churches, worked with the deaf, fed the hungry, and brought recorded  and print bibles to the pastors and the communities. The book also discussed the downfalls of doing God's work. The authors discussed how three pastors was beaten and how the government confiscated homes. Trucks were destroyed and had an angry mob wanting to stone a pastor. Doing the work of the Lord is not an easy one, but the rewards are great.

Finally, I liked the time to reflect at the end of each section. The time to reflect presents a bible verse for mediation.

The Compassionate-Mind guide to overcoming anxiiety

I read the Compassionate-Mind guide to overcoming anxiety, in exchange for honest review from Bethany House Reviewers Program. . The book was written by Dennis Tirch. The book was published by New Harbinger Publications.

I chose this book because I have anxiety issues. The book talked about how people are calmed by warmth, compassion, and connection with others. The book also discusses healthy ways to deal with aggression.

Anxiety also affects people physically (the body) via tingling, shallow breathing, tightening of the stomach, and panic attacks.

I also liked how the book discussed the types of anxiety. Panic Attacks can cause an increase in heart rate and hyperventilation. Generalized anxiety affects attitude (negativity). People may not feel safe or content. Anxiety also has basis in culture and experiences, which affect thoughts and actions. Next, people can experience social anxiety, which causes worry about what others think. People may fear rejection or alienation. Finally, people have specific phobias, such as spiders, heights, or snakes.

I have had panic attacks before, along with social phobia, generalized anxiety, and specific phobias. The book was a good read.

Real Life, Real Miracles

I read Real Life, Real Miracles, in exchange for review from Bethany House. The book was written by James L. Garlow and Keith Wall. The book provides stories from real people, which also shows God's goodness and grace. The book is very inspirational. Steve may have died in a car accident, but he did not. The book also discussed Shari. Shari was boarding a plane from Australia and someone had taken her seat. Since the plane was already ready to depart, the attendant told her to sit in any empty seat.  Shari was in a plane crash. She was about to take some pills to sleep, but a quiet voice told her not to and to keep her wits on alert. The story had a beautiful ending.

The book also discusses cancer, drugs, diamonds, and MS. I did not get a chance to finish the book, but I am definitely planning to buy a paperback book in the future.

The prologue set the tone of the book and could applied to anyone-you got laid off and can not pay your bills; You been praying and can't seem to get ahead. One day, you walk to the mailbox, receive a letter from an old friend, and she sent a check. (reminds me of my mother. always looking for a mysterious check in the mail. The problem is--miracles occur when least expected. ) God still provides--even in our darkest hour, even when we feel despair, even when no one else is there. God will always be around. 

Unending Devotion

I read Unending Devotion, in exchange for review from Bethany House. The book was written by Jody Hedlund and published by Bethany House. I have the paperback version from Bethany House and also purchased the Kindle Edition from Amazon.

The book is about Lily, who wants to find her sister, Daisy. She looks in hotels, while also rescuing women, from bad situations. The opening of the book, she is attempting to save Edith,  a prostitute, whose master has taken her coat and shoes.

The book took a minute to get into. I kept reading the beginning over and over again (not because the book was bad, but kept getting distracted with kids and other tasks). Lily had to deal with crazy men and Connell, a rugged man and Lily's protector. The book is a very good read.

No Safe Harbor

I read No safe harbor, in exchange for review from Bethany House. The book was wrote by Elizabeth Ludwig and published by Baker Publishing.The book discussed Cara, a woman on the search for her brother. Cara traveled across the water to America to search for her twin brother. I enjoyed reading the book. I enjoyed the imagery and Cara's determination. I also enjoyed Rourke's scenes (read more about him in the book).

Paperback
Kindle Edition

Secrets of Biblical Wisdom by Kyle Searcy

I read the Secrets of biblical wisdom by Kyle Searcy, in exchange for review from Bethany House.

Funny story:

The other week, I was reviewing some emails and noticed one from Bethany House. It was the confirmation to send me this book. I normally keep my confirmations in the book review folder, but for some reason this book was in the business or event folder. I was not sure,if I received the book yet. I checked my e-readers (kindle for pc, kindle cloud, reader for pc, and adobe digital editions)but could not find the book. So I thought ok, Maybe Bethany has not sent the book in the mail yet. Cool, no Problem. I have two other books (paperback) to read for review. This morning, as I was preparing for church, I needed to find the boy's tooth brush. In my bag, with homework and other things needed to work, I noticed this book. I been reading it since I got home from church. The book was just what I needed at this moment. The book is what I needed right now.

I am loving this book. I enjoyed the forward and prologue, especially the dorm dream. I also enjoyed the story about how Kyle met his wife. The story was highly inspirational. Kyle let God guide him in finding the right woman for him--not just as a wife, but as a pastor's wife. Not everyone can handle this role. The book also talked about how we--as a people--need to allow Godly wisdom to guide our decisions. We do not need to rush into decisions because we will make mistakes-the wrong mistake. I also love the questions for thought at the end of each chapter. Searcy also teaches about the difference between Godly Wisdom and Demonic (false wisdom). I highly recommend this book. Like I said, I started about an hour ago and now on page 41 out of 188. This is an excellent book.