RTR's Inspirational Reviews

Ocean's Apart - Karen Kingsbury

2008-07-12T07:31:00.003-04:00

Avon

ISBN: 0061456713

April 2008 (Reissue)

Contemporary Romance

www.karenkingsbury.com

Kiahna Siefert just cannot shake the feeling—God must be telling her something, but what? Later that day, the airplane on which she is a stewardess, unexpectedly dives into the ocean killing everyone onboard.

Max, Kiahna’s son, knows something is wrong when his neighbor, Ramey Aialea, meets his school bus. Ramey never brings Buddy, Max’s dog, when she meets the bus but today she does. Ramey tells Max that his mother has gone to live with Jesus.

Later, Ramey receives a phone call from an attorney who has a letter written by Kiahna to be given to Max. In it Kiahna tells Max of her friend, Connor Evans, an airline pilot but doesn’t mention her earlier relationship with Connor. Knowing that Ramey is unable to care for Max on a permanent basis, she would like Max to visit Connor, a married man who is Max's real father.

OCEANS APART is a wonderful story of a boy whose life has been disrupted, but who never loses his trust in God, and Connor, who now finds he has a son. Connor’s wife, Michelle, cannot handle the news that her husband was unfaithful and threatens to split the family. OCEANS APART will have the reader in tears so keep a box of tissues handy.

Originally released in 2004, OCEANS APART is an award-winning Christian fiction novel.

The Shack - William P. Young

2008-07-07T08:56:00.003-04:00

Released December 2007

www.theshackbook.com

THE SHACK is a success story in its own right. Originally self-published, the novel has gained quite a following. Enough of one that Warner is partnering with Windblown Media to make sure the book reaches people throughout the world.

When his young daughter, Missy, is kidnapped and murdered by a serial killer, Mackenzie Allen Philips slips into an understandable depression. In desperation, he returns to the shack where Missy's bloody clothing was found. It is there that he meets God and is able to discover just why God allows him and others to suffer from such a horrific event.

THE SHACK is an inspirational novel, yet the events are covered with a realism I wasn't expecting. This made it hard to put down. Though, as I read the novel, something happened in this state that made the novel harder to take. A young girl went missing. At first, her connection to a MySpace account was blamed, but the outcome was far more horrific. Her uncle and former stepfather kidnapped her with plans of forcing her into their lurid child sex ring. Instead, she ended up dead and buried in a shallow grave. I'd like to say that things of that nature never happen in my state, but obviously that's not true. Because of these events, I found THE SHACK a little harder to read.

Sadly, tragedy strikes far too often and whatever God's intentions. I always find myself questioning, just as Mackenzie did, why He would allow a young child to be raped and murdered. THE SHACK covers a lot of possible answers to this question and is worthwhile reading.

Flesh & Blood by Dan Russ

2008-07-02T11:18:00.002-04:00

Released July 2008
Christian Non-Fiction

www.bakerbooks.com

First, I'll start by saying that I was slightly turned off with the subtitle "Learning to Be Fully Human from the Son of Man." The first thought that went through my head was that some of us are not "Fully Human." Nitpick aside, once I started reading, I actually understood what the author meant.

FLESH-AND-BLOOD is not going to appeal to the masses. Those who are highly interested in examining the life Jesus led will enjoy this offering. It links the lessons and trials that Jesus faced with the life of any man and woman today. Topics range from sex to violence to death. In fact, it covered more than I figured I'd find. Sex is often overlooked in Christian books, but it's a fact of life and ignoring that humans are sexually driven creatures is wrong. Dan Russ covers this topic with honesty, something I appreciate.

A Steal of a Deal - Ginny Aiken

2008-06-09T08:11:00.002-04:00

Revell
ISBN: 9780800732288
April 2008
Christian Mystery
www.revellbooks.com

The second book in a series about gemologist Andrea "Andie" Adams, A STEAL OF A DEAL is edgy and fun, but I struggled to really enjoy the variety of characters. Andie, the heroine, is tough, yet feminine, while her male counterpart, Max Matthews, is jaw-droppingly handsome and the object of Andie's frequent irritation.

Andie and Max work for the Shop-Til-U-Drop Channel or STUD for short. Their latest assignment has them heading to Kashmir to help the victims of a recent earthquake. Unfortunately, things do not go smoothly as a man is found dead and the STUD crew are all held in a Pakistani prison until police can rule out potential suspects. Once cleared, things still do not start looking up. Andie's time in Kashmir it turning out to be anything but fun. Once again, Andie will be solving a murder and, whether she likes it or not, working very closely with Max to get the job done!

I never read the first book in this series. This may have fed my frustration with the book. I liked Andie's character. Max didn't affect me the same way, however, and I found myself all too happy to put the book down to do chores instead. This is never a good sign.

There are other characters involved as well. Perhaps, too many for me, because I had to keep notes to remember their roles in relation to the story, STUD or to Andie. It proved to be more of a distraction and made it tough for me to get into the story. I wonder if reading the first book would have made A STEAL OF A DEAL an easier read in the long run.

As High As the Heavens - Kathleen Morgan

2008-04-25T09:05:00.000-04:00

Revell
ISBN: 0800758161
January 2008
Historical Romance
www.revellbooks.com

Reviewed by Robert H. Goss

Heather Gordon has enjoyed the privileges of nobility all of her life but now craves something more adventurous. Duncan Mackenzie has always lived his life in the Highlands and now has a daunting task – rescue Mary, Queen of Scots, from her imprisonment at Lochleven.

Duncan has one advantage – he looks like Colin Stewart who is privy to Lady Margaret’s court. Lady Margaret is Lochleven’s chatelaine so if Duncan can take Colin’s place, he can gain access to Queen Mary. The problem is that Duncan’s speech and conduct are of a rough nature.

Heather has been assigned the task of refining Duncan’s manner. Can she accomplish this in the three months before the rescue attempt? Can she and Duncan overlook their attraction to each other?

AS HIGH AS THE HEAVENS tells of a period in Scottish history when the English and Scottish were at war with each other. I found the book enlightening and well worth the purchase price of $13.99.

A Fire Within by Kathleen Morgan

2008-04-15T08:25:00.002-04:00

Revell
ISBN: 0800759656
January 2008
Historical Romance
www.revellbooks.com

Reviewer: Robert H. Goss

A FIRE WITHIN, book 3 of These Highland Hills trilogy, carries on the story of Clan Campbell with the story of Caitlan, sister to Niall Campbell, the clan chieftain. If you haven’t read the first book, Child of the Mist, or the second book, Wings of Morning, never fear—they tell stories of other clan members. Wings of Morning was reviewed by RoundtableReviews in 2006.

When Caitlan observes a handsome stranger at Dalmally’s thrice weekly market gazing at her, she is affected unlike all other men’s gazes. He introduces himself as Darach MacFarlane and states his wish for him and his companion to meet with the Campbell. Caitlan agrees to let them accompany her and her maid little realizing he is Darach MacNaughton of the proscribed clan MacNaughton. (Proscription is the public identification and official condemnation of enemies of the state. Lands would have been seized and the clan members declared to be outlaws.)

A FIRE WITHIN grabs the reader’s attention right from the first page. While the characters are fictional, the historical aspect of the story portrays a period of time in Scotland that was very real. As romance builds between the two, the reader cannot help but wonder if Caitlan and Darach can overcome the difference in their positions. Add this book to your “must read” list, it is well worth the price.

He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not Review

2008-04-15T08:23:00.001-04:00

Faith Words

ISBN 10: 1599957132

Release Date: April 30, 2008

Christian Memoir

www.trishryanonline.com

Reviewer: Deb Fowler

Trish was a royal flop in the romance department. She lined them up like ducks in a row and there was always some circumstance or incident that shot them right out from under her. Every Mr. Right turned out to be Mr. Wrong, especially the abusive clod she married. He was a two time loser who could have used a few anger management classes, but she just didn't see it coming. In her newly released book, He Loves Me, He Loves Me NOT: A Memoir of Finding Faith, Hope, and Happily Ever After, Trish Ryan sheepishly states that she was "too embarrassed to admit that I still couldn't get a relationship to work.

"There was Tim, there was Mark, there was Chip, there was Josh and there was even Drew, who after a date or two entertained her with thoughts of his bisexual urges. Trish gave herself crash courses in practically everything from astrology to feng shui in order to attract a mate. Nothing seemed to help. Her prospects for marriage and a family appeared to be dismal at best until she started to think about something that was said to her about taking Jesus a bit more seriously. She purged her life of all idolatrous books and items she owned and started to take note of her life, especially her relationship with Jesus (or lack of it).

She began to attend the Vineyard church. With a whirlwind of men, jobs and homes behind her, perhaps she would find a place to safely land. Her social life began to pick up. Trish suddenly found a new sense of belonging and took a five-month "crash course in the Word of God." A friend handed her a Bible stating that "this is the self-help book you've been looking for." Would Trish Ryan find what she had been looking for all along? Would she find herself? Would she find herself a Mr. Right?

I really enjoyed reading Trish Ryan's memoir. Many Christian memoirs I've read come off quite preachy from the first sentence and I'm reluctant even to get to page two, let alone the ending. I like that Trish candidly admitted her fallibility, didn't dwell on it and went on to relate how she had changed. Her relationship with Jesus didn't develop overnight and from the look of it, it will be a lifetime commitment and joy to her. I don't really care for the one-size-fits-all Christian memoir, but this one is somehow different. It's a keeper. This book would be an excellent choice for the budding or self-doubting Christian.

Barbara & Susan's Guide to the Empty Nest

2008-04-11T08:12:00.002-04:00

Publisher: FamilyLife Publishing
ISBN: 1602000603
Release Date: April 2008
Genre: Women's Issues, Self-Help, Christian Living
Publisher's Website: www.familylife.com
Reviewer: Sandie Kirkland

Every woman who is a mother will, if successful in raising their child, eventually face an empty nest. Children grow up and move out, to colleges, jobs, marriages... Many women are uncertain what will happen once the children are gone, and unsure what this new stage in their life will hold. Barbara Rainey and Susan Yates have written a book that will help all women walk through this new stage, whether they are handling it well or if it is a major challenge for them. Both the authors have been through this event, and their advice is useful for every woman.

While I was reading BARBARA & SUSAN'S GUIDE TO THE EMPTY NEST, it felt like water on a parched desert landscape. I didn't even know I was feeling these feelings, yet Barbara and Susan helped me give voice to what I was experiencing, and gave me the vocabulary to express the problems and the solutions for this issue. Each chapter discusses a possible issue that arises from the empty nest and gives solutions. There are chapters that talk about how to handle life's disappointments, how to renew one's marriage again, how to relate to adult children, how to handle one's own aging parents. Each chapter ends with a list of resources, and then a personal story from someone who had met that specific challenge.

The second part of the book talks about how to redefine one's life in this stage. It discusses how to identify strengths and desires, and how to refocus in order to make a difference now that more time and resources are available. Specific issues that need volunteers are discussed. In the back of the book are appendices that give hints, self-assessments and other valuable resources.

This is truly one one of the best books I've read in years. It is written from a Christian perspective, but even if the reader is not religious, the discussion and resources are so valuable. I plan to buy several copies to give as gifts, and I can't imagine a woman who couldn't gain something from reading it.

I Became A Christian And All I Got Was This Lousy T-Shirt

2008-04-11T07:56:00.002-04:00

Released February 2008

Vince Antonucci's latest offering, I BECAME A CHRISTIAN AND ALL I GOT WAS THIS LOUSY T-SHIRT, delves into Christianity. As a teenager, Vince was not religious, but he found his passion and is now sharing his personal account of his foray into religion, his family and the lessons he is learning along the way.

The book is not overly lengthy. At under 200 pages, you should have no problem finishing the book in a couple sittings. The t-shirt theme is carried throughout the book delving into how shedding a symbolic t-shirt is often the first step in finding and understanding religion. It is an interesting metaphor.

The writing is extremely personable and humorous which makes it an intriguing read. That part I really like. As for the Bible being God's lessons for mankind, even the author still failed to convince me. L. Ron Hubbard's Dianetics lead to Scientology, a "religion" I equate to cult status. One man's opinion developed a rather scary cult following. In the end, I'm still unconvinced that the Bible is more than one or two people's mythological tales.

GUARD US, GUIDE US by J.I. Packer and Carolyn Nystrom

2008-03-22T07:06:00.002-04:00

Baker Books
Released March 2008
Reviewed by Tracy Farnsworth

In general, I really don't have a taste for Christian non-fiction. I find much of it is extremely preachy and often dry. GUARD US, GUIDE US starts off sounding very textbook: "We begin by pursuing the point that our prologue has made." Those eleven words put fear in me. It sounds like another dry read is about to hit!

What surprised me is that despite the rather text book start, the book is actually not as bad as it may seem. It also isn't as preachy as I'd expected. There are many Biblical references within, but there are also warm, engaging reflections and stories that draw the reader in.

At heart, the book is geared to help you develop a better relationship with God based on three ideals: Principles, Ethics and Spirituality. The end of the book contains a number of thought-provoking questions that are perfect for reading groups or Bible study groups. I do think the book is perfect for group discussions, even better than it would be should you opt to read it alone.

My Soul To Keep by Melanie Wells

2008-03-14T08:18:00.002-04:00

Reviewed by Sandie Kirkland

Publisher: Multnomah, a division of Random House, Inc.
Website: www.mpbooks.com
ISBN: 978-1-59052-428-2
Release Date: February 19, 2008
Genre: Fiction/Suspense

Dylan Foster is having a rough patch in her life--a very rough patch. She seems to be moving from disaster to disaster. She has work problems, her boyfriend has left, and she was targeted in the past by sociopaths; an occupational problem when you're a psychologist. But nothing in the past matches the horror of her current situation. Dylan is unmarried, but is close to two children. Christine is five years old, and has a special connection to Dylan since they both are psychic. Nicolas is also five, and is Dylan's friend Maria's son. Maria was raped and Nicolas' father is in prison for that crime. It's Christine's sixth birthday and everyone comes together to celebrate. While at the park, Nicolas is kidnapped.

MY SOUL TO KEEP follows these characters in the time following this brutal crime. What has happened to Nicolas and will he return alive? Christine seems to be able to feel Nicolas, but the strain of doing so soon has her in the hospital with a mysterious illness. And someone is bringing rattlesnakes to Dylan's house, causing a deadly gas leak, and breaking lightbulbs.

Melanie Wells has written a fast-paced mystery that has the reader on the edge of their seat, eagerly reading to see if Nicolas can be found before it is too late. The characters are well written, and Dylan is one of the most unique heroines around. This is a great read for suspense fans.

ENCOUNTERING GOD by David M. Edwards

2008-03-12T07:49:00.002-04:00

Release Date: April 2008

Soon to be released, ENCOUNTERING GOD offers insight into becoming a more spiritual person. Author/songwriter David M. Edwards takes ten principles and offers detailed examples of how this method worked for those in biblical times and how it applies to life today.

The ten principles are:

1. Pour Out Your Life
2. Clean House
3. Rejoice in the Lord
4. Built Altars of Uncut Stone
5. Reach for Jesus
6. Build Memorials
7. Trust in the name Jesus
8. Offer a Sacrifice of Praise
9. Thank the Lord
10. Make the Ultimate Sacrifice

It's tough to review ENCOUNTERING GOD because I am willing to admit that I am agnostic by nature. In the same manner that L. Ron Hubbard's book brought on the cultish Scientology, I often wonder if the Bible falls under those same lines. No one knows who penned it, so for all we know it could have been some man or woman with a vivid imagination. I don't mean to be disrespectful, but I like having proof in front of me, and I've never seen any real proof.

Since bringing inspirational reviews back, the reviewer who was supposed to do the Christian books has left to pursue a new business, so it leaves me with a number of books to review. I don't mind Christian books, but if they are preachy, I can quickly lose interest. I found ENCOUNTERING GOD to be just preachy enough that it became a struggle.

Does this mean the book isn't worth your time? Not necessarily. If you really enjoy Christian non-fiction, especially books that sound more like sermons, ENCOUNTERING GOD will be highly enjoyable to you.

HOPE'S WISH by Stuart and Shelby Stout

2008-03-11T19:38:00.002-04:00

Release Date: March 18, 2008

Don't even think of reading HOPE'S WISH without Kleenex in hand. For the record, I used 18 of them. HOPE'S WISH is a tearjerker!

What started as leg pain turned into nightmare for Hope Stout and her family. The vivacious girl's life changed when a diagnosis of bone cancer was given. Despite the fact that the cancer had already spread beyond her knee into her hips, back, lungs and more, the Stout family was hopeful that Hope would beat the odds.

Things did not work out as planned. When it became obvious that Hope might not make it, she made a simple wish. That wish was about to change the lives of many children. Her wish came clearly from the heart--she wanted the Make A Wish Foundation to raise enough money so that the 155 children in her region would all be given their very own wish.

From the get-go, you know that Hope isn't going to live. This broke my heart because I have a similarly aged daughter, and I can only imagine what the Stout family endured. Showing up at the front door to sign for packages with tears streaming down my face seemed minuscule compared to what they faced.

Apparently, HOPE'S WISH is slated to become a motion picture. I think it will be a delightful movie, but people should read the book first. I think the book will bring you much closer into the heart and soul of the Stout family and all they've been through. It also allows you to get to know Hope in a very intimate manner. It's a stunning read and definitely worthy of your time and money.

Skizzer by A.J. Kiesling

2008-02-24T05:41:00.002-05:00

A.J. Kiesling, a former writer for Publishers Weekly, offers her debut novel, SKIZZER. Published by Revell, the book is actually a bit of a surprise because it focuses on Druids and Celtic lore, and not so much on the religions usually included in Christian novels. This change of pace is definitely welcome!

Claire Trowling gets the call that her younger sister, Becca, has disappeared. All that's left behind is a note saying that someone both wonderful and terrible has occurred and that Becca will be in touch. Claire joins her brother-in-law in a quest to locate her missing sister.

Switching back and forth between their childhood and present day, Claire realizes that the entire mystery may be linked to an old woman that lived deep in the forest when they were children. Some is not telling the whole story, and Claire is determined to discover how this old woman, a precious necklace and their past is linked to Becca's disappearance.

SKIZZER does take a little getting used to because it does switch from childhood to adulthood every few chapters. The story itself is definitely intriguing and the mystery moves steadily to the conclusion. I'm not sure it is my favorite book of all times. During the past to present switches, I'd find myself wanting to pick one time period and stay there. Regardless, it certainly kept calling me back to learn the outcome! Overall, I think that this is a great start to the author's career as a novelist and I'm eager to see her writing in the future.

HIS BRAIN, HER BRAIN

2008-02-19T11:19:00.002-05:00

Zondervan
ISBN: 978-0310240280
February 2008
Christian Living
Reviewed by Rebecca Wire

Dr. Walt and Barb Larimore have collaborated on a wonderful book in HIS
BRAIN, HER BRAIN. Looking at the differences in the anatomy and chemical
make-up of the male and female brain, the Larimores explain how we are
designed to function together.

The subtitle of the book is How Divinely Designed Differences Can
Strengthen Your Marriage. The Larimores begin with a very detailed
examination of the various parts of the brain and the corresponding
chemistry. The authors then take a closer look at how the science differs
in the male and female brain. This offers the reader a fascinating look at
why men and women relate differently to each other and to the world around
them.

While reading HIS BRAIN, HER BRAIN, I often stopped to share something from
its pages with my husband. We were both greatly entertained by the books
frankness, and we appreciated its accuracy. Barb's commentary (set apart in
Italics) was a wonderful complement to Dr. Walt's.

HIS BRAIN, HER BRAIN does not offer suggestions for "how to change your
spouse". This is not a book about how to get your husband to listen to you
or your wife to stop being so emotional. Instead, the Larimores celebrate
the differences and demonstrate how they were intentionally created to
benefit both spouses. This book would be great for a small group discussion
and I intend to suggest it to mine. It would be a wonderful gift for an
engaged or newlywed couple; however, I believe it would benefit those of us
who have been married for years, as well.

TRUST IN THE LORD

2008-02-14T10:13:00.001-05:00

Sweetwater Books
ISBN: 978-1-59955-114-2
Inspirational
February 2008
Reviewed by Rebecca Wire

Sometimes while reading a book I ask myself, "Will I ever want to read
this again?" It is an obvious question for me and one that speaks to
the quality of the writing. This question received an easy "yes"
while reading Deen Kemsley's TRUST IN THE LORD: REFLECTIONS OF JESUS
CHRIST.

Kemsley uses stories from his own life to reflect upon the promises of
Jesus Christ. Kemsley offers an honest look at how his own
experiences have allowed him to look toward Jesus with faith and
confidence.

Each of the eight chapters is filled with warmth and hope. The
chapters can be read as a collection or you might choose the one that
best speaks to your current needs. This makes a great choice for a
personal devotional. I think it would make a lovely gift for a friend
who needs some encouragement. Don't we all need it sometimes?

This was a beautiful read. As I place this book upon my shelf of
keepers, I look forward to the next time I will find comfort in its
pages.

GIL Publications - Press Release

2008-02-02T13:50:00.001-05:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

GIL Publications celebrates its Fifth Anniversary with new publishing service,
website and newsletter for Christian Authors.

Contact:
Akili Kumasi, GIL Publications
www.PublishChristianBooks.com
(718) 386-6434
Publish@GILpublications.com

In celebration of five years in Christian Publishing, GIL Publications is launching
a new author publishing service, website and newsletter for aspiring Christian
authors.

January 28, 2008 - NEW YORK CITY - GIL Publications is announcing the launch of
their new author publishing service, website and newsletter for Christian authors
PublishChristianBooks.com will begin operation on February 1, 2008. This low-cost
service will make it easy for Christian authors to publish their books.

GIL Publications' new Christian Author Publishing Service is uniquely distinct from
others publishers in the industry as it was designed by a Christian author for
other Christian authors. Their motto: "Give us your manuscript - and we will give
you fifty books." GIL Publications actually supplies authors with 50 books. This
is in addition to the manuscript preparation service, ISBN, copyright, library
catalog number, book layout, cover design and marketing services.

The goal of this GIL Publications website is to "help authors write, publish and
sell their Christian books." PublishChristianBooks.com will feature helpful
articles, pricing information, books for aspiring Christian authors and a
newsletter to be archived on the site. Well-known personalities in the publishing
industry are being scheduled to contribute articles for the site.

The newsletter, PublishChrist will feature reviews of helpful websites for authors,
book reviews, articles and other industry helpful information.

GIL Publications is the creator and publisher of the popular Bible Word Search book
series that features word search puzzles made from accompanying scriptures.

For more information about GIL Publications or PublishChristianBooks.com send an e-
mail to Publish@GILpublications.com or call (718) 386-6434.

# # #

Serenity- A Serialized Young Adult Novel

2007-12-18T11:05:00.000-05:00

www.realbuzzstudios.com
www.serenitybuzz.com
www.thomasnelson.com

RealBuzz Studios releases their 7th serialized SERENITY book. This latest outing, SPACE CADET VS. DRAMA QUEEN, has Serenity and her friends in a bit of trouble when they take Sally to see a rated R movie. Sally's dad is not happy, but eventually Sally is able to worm out of some of her punishment because the church group decides they could make a better movie than the one they just saw. Sally's up for the starring role, and the rest of the friends all find their parts within the movie.

Meanwhile, Serenity finds herself questioning her mother's lack of parental guidance. She's tired of having a mother who acts "more like a bossy older sister." She sees how Sally's dad is involved in Sally's life and wonders why her mother has to be so different. In the end, Sally will learn a very important lesson.

For a Christian anime comic, I never found SERENITY: SPACE CADET VS. DRAMA QUEEN to be even remotely preachy. Granted, I'm an adult, so my viewpoint my be a little skewed, but the one thing I didn't like was the anime. In general, I can't stand the big eyes and pointy noses that are trademark in this genre. My kids are also not into anime, so I couldn't have them offer their insight. I can say the illustrators do an excellent job with the anime, as it is very similar to the anime you see on television.

I will comment on the storyline. It will certainly appeal to the younger teen and 'tween crowd. The message throughout the story in regards to parenting styles is minimal, but the details into the movie making are excellent. The comic book then breaks off in the cartoon version of the sci-fi movie the kids are making. In essence, the serialized young adult book is really two stories in one.

Would I buy this book for my children? Providing they liked anime, I would not hesitate. It is a nice length for most children who have other hobbies, yet still need to stick to school reading requirements for their homework.

And Baby Makes Five - Gail Gaymer Martin

2007-12-17T14:49:00.001-05:00

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Felisa Carillo, a young widow, is about to give birth in the same fields where she works. Chad Garrison is visiting his fields when he sees Felisa. Chad quickly comes to her aid, rushing her to the hospital. He determines that all is well and his job is done; but Chad cannot seem to walk away.

Felisa has lived a difficult life as a migrant worker. She knows how others see her, so her boss’ attempts to help her seem too good to be true. She wonders about his motives and what will happen to her baby. Felisa appreciates the help Chad offers, but is not sure if she should really be accepting it.

This is the premise behind Gail Gaymer Martin’s AND BABY MAKES FIVE, a contemporary romance novel. The story explores two people struggling to trust the unfamiliar. As they learn to trust, they also learn to love one another.

This is the second time I have read one of Gail Gaymer Martin’s romance novels. I enjoyed this novel just as much as I enjoyed FAMILY IN HIS HEART. One of my closest friends loves romance novels, and I am excited to have found two great reads to recommend to her!

Family In His Heart - Gail Gaymer Martin

2007-12-11T13:17:00.001-05:00

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Rona Meyers is a woman running from her past. She has come to Les Cheneaux in Michigan for her escape. Rona’s search for a new life lands her at a small diner where she finds employment and new friends. One of these new friends is more intriguing than the rest. Nick Thornton’s good looks and chivalric act immediately capture Rona’s attention.

Nick Thornton is dealing with his own past, when he meets Rona in the diner. He wants to get to know her more and begins to make plans to do just that. As they both struggle with the difficulties of their past, Rona and Nick slowly begin to develop a friendship. However, they must face the things they have both been running from, if they are ever to have a future together.

I have to admit that I used to be a huge fan of romance novels. There was something alluring about getting swept up in the fantasy of the romance. However, I also have to say that I wanted there to be something “cleaner” for me to be able to enjoy. I believe I have found my answer with Gail Gaymer Martin. Curling up on my sofa with the pocket-sized paperback, was a real treat.

FAMILY IN HIS HEART is a sweet read! It would make a wonderful gift for anyone on your list who may enjoy a romance novel. I liked that the book included questions for discussion. Gail also gives her readers a little note at the end of the book reminding them of the power of forgiveness and second chances. I’m looking forward to my next Gail Gaymer Martin novel!

The Legend Of St. Nicholas - Dandi Daley Mackall

2007-12-07T07:49:00.000-05:00

THE LEGEND OF ST. NICHOLAS: A Story of Christmas Giving
Author: Dandi Daley Mackall
Illustrator: Guy Porfirio
ZonderKidz
ISBN-10: 0310713277
October 2007
Fiction: Children's Fiction/Picture Book Ages 4-8
www.zonderkidz.com
Reviewed by L.L. Woodard

THE LEGEND OF ST. NICHOLAS poses a problem for this reviewer: It is impossible to know which to praise higher—the story or the illustrations. Having read the book with its bright, colorful pictures accompanying the author's story illustrating the joy of giving, it is tough to picture one without the other. The story, told beautifully, includes a rendition of the original St. Nick as well as the Christian theme of the wise men.

Not only was I delighted with the book which delivers its message without preachiness, but so were my grandchildren, ages three, four, and eleven. True enough, the eleven-year-old found the book to be “kiddish,” she nevertheless enjoyed it, ooohing and ahhing at the delightful illustrations that fairly pop from the pages. The faces of the people in the story seem lifelike enough to be photographs.

And although this is a Christmas story, it is a book that could be enjoyed throughout the year. Parents and children alike will be delighted with THE LEGEND OF ST. NICHOLAS.

Your Chariot Awaits - Lorena McCourtney

2007-11-24T10:04:00.000-05:00

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Andi McConnell is not having a great week. She was just laid off at her job and feels there are no new prospects for her career. Her boyfriend has decided they should stop seeing each other. To top it all off, this just happens to be the same week that Andi is turning sixty.

Adding to the craziness of her week is a surprise visit from a distant relative who gives Andi an unexpected and strange inheritance. A rich uncle Andi knew nothing about has left her a limousine. She has no idea what to do with such a gift. While still trying to figure out how to proceed with her jobless state and her new vehicle, Andi receives the biggest shock yet. A body is found in the trunk of her new limousine.

Andi quickly finds herself in the midst of her own investigation guided by Keegan Fitz, a quirky former T.V. private investigator. What follows is a surprisingly fun attempt to solve the mystery that has brought itself to Andi’s front door.

I tend to shy away from the mystery/suspense genre because I simply don’t have the stomach for it. With YOUR CHARIOT AWAITS, Lorena McCourtney has taken the concept of a murder mystery and created a clean, entertaining novel.

YOUR CHARIOT AWAITS is described as the first in the Andi McConnell mysteries. I am looking forward to additional novels from this series and more from McCourtney!

Till Morning Is Nigh - Leisha Kelly

2007-11-17T07:56:00.000-05:00

If you've never read any of Leisha Kelly's novels, there are a series of books revolving around Julia Wortham and her husband Samuel. Falling upon hard times, Julia and Samuel are befriended by a charming older woman and wind up owning her home. So while food may be scarce in the 1930s, the couple are lucky enough to be given a roof over their heads. Over the years, the couple have not only raised their own children, but they are also raising their abandoned niece and helping to raise a neighbor's children--the Hammonds. After George Hammond's wife died, he would rather spend his time alone, drunk than acknowledge he has ten children who need him.

TILL MORNING IS NIGH is a Christmas novella. The plot moves swiftly and there are two main conflicts. One occurs when a number of the Hammond children become sick. Obviously, this evokes fear because their mother's illness led to her death. The other issue occurs when Samuel goes to round up George Hammond to go with him to fetch the doctor. Samuel returns with the doctor following, but no George. George disappears in this novel, taking the family's money with him.

One thing I like about Leisha Kelly's novels is that nothing is cut and dried. Sure this novel is set in Christmas, but this series is also set in the Depression. As much as we'd like to make everything sunny, life throws curve balls that make existence seem futile at times. TILL MORNING IS NIGH is no different. I won't tell readers how it ends, read it and find out, but there is definitely a trace of realism that today's men and women will be understand. While salaries for many today have not changed in years, heating bills, electricity bills, gas (auto) bills, car payments, and mortgages have skyrocketed. By no means are things as bad as they were in the depression, but they definitely are not great either. In a way, TILL MORNING IS NIGH helps put today's woes into perspective--things are bad, but they could be worse.

If you want a thought-provoking Christmas novel, Leisha Kelly's novel is a great choice.

An Irish Christmas by Melody Carlson

2007-11-13T12:21:00.000-05:00

This September, Melody Carlson offered her inspirational Christmas tale. In the story, a mother and son are both hiding important secrets that once revealed threatens to change their relationship entirely. Colleen Frederick is a recent widow and her son’s silence as he nears his college graduation date bothers her, but she realizes she cannot push him. Now that she is all alone, she decides to sell her late husband’s shoe store and their family home and settle for something smaller near the ocean.
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Meanwhile, Jamie, her son, is hiding the fact that he dropped out because he never wanted to get his business degree, music is all that matters to him. When he learns that his mom has sold the store and is planning to sell their home, he is furious, but most of this is an act. He simply doesn’t want to reveal the truth about his own future. On a whim, Colleen books a trip to Ireland for the two of them. She has a secret to share about Jamie’s past that she feels is best told in Ireland.

I love Melody Carlson’s books, but found AN IRISH CHRISTMAS to be harder to get into. The writing was just as emotional as always, but I think my compassion for the characters was lacking. Had they been up front from the start, they could have saved themselves a lot of pain. Either way, by the time they headed for Ireland I was totally engrossed to the storyline. The reader is aware of secrets far before the characters so it is enjoyable to see how they play out.

I have to admit that I was all ready to argue the legal drinking age in this review, but I always research items first. Turns out the author knows her stuff and I learned a thing or two. The legal drinking age was 21 until the 70s when it was lowered for a little more than a decade. So this is an eye-opening piece of history that I never would have known had I skipped reading AN IRISH CHRISTMAS.

Moving Things Over

2007-11-13T12:19:00.000-05:00

While WordPad might be the preferred blog for many, I found them to be a pain. It would not take my HTML codes and images due to some conflict with the template I was using and though there were instructions on changing it to allow for HTML, it wasn't working. I'e never had a problem with Blogger, so I'm moving things to this format.