pink sapphire

The Jerk Magnet

2012-02-03T15:32:00.001-05:00

The Jerk Magnet
By Melody Carlson
About the book:
When Chelsea Martin's new stepmother gives her a new makeover, she discovers that her appearance (and social standing) have changed completely! Having gone from geek to chic, she know finds herself getting attention from guys and now is sitting at the popular table. But she quickly finds out that 1. All of the guys that are attracted to her are jerks, and 2. Girls don't want to be friends with the girl that all the guys want. Will Chelsea learn that self-image isn't everything
My Thoughts:
This was a good book. The premise is exploring if looks are as important as we tend to make them. The main character, Chelsea, is gawky and pretty much invisible in the beginning. Then she has the opportunity to be made over and start over in a new town. What ensues takes Chelsea by surprise. Can looks matter that much? Chelsea becomes determined to find out.
At first the book just plotted along like any other YA would. It was okay but towards the end Chelsea and her friends made some decisions that took me by surprise and made the ending great!
Favorite Quote:
"Sometimes the best way to handle rejection is to expect it. Just accept that antagonism is coming your way and get beyond it as quickly and quietly as possible."
Rating: 4carats

“Available January 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T14:18:00.000-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T08:00:00.000-04:00

Trick or Treat ? :)

Sierra Jensen Collection, volume 1

2011-10-17T08:00:00.000-04:00

Sierra Jensen, Volume 1
By Robin Jones Gunn
About the book:
The Europe mission trip brought Sierra Jensen the best gift possible: two new friends, Katie and Christy. But now Sierra is headed home, and she can’t help but wonder will her friendships last? And what about her new home? Her family moved while she was gone, and that means facing a new high school. And the biggest question of all: Will she ever find love? Then a chance meeting in a London airport answers that question. Paul makes her heart leap. But she’ll never see him again! Or will she?

My thoughts:

Volume 1 is a collection of the first three books in the Sierra Jensen series, repackaged from its original printing of the 1980’s. It amazes me that a book written over 20 years ago is still relevant and interesting today.

Sierra Jensen has just finished a great summer on a European mission’s trip and is starting fresh, anew in Portland, Oregon. She's not happy to be there and struggles to make peace with starting over. Along the way Sierra learns a lot about herself and what she believes.

My favorite part of the entire book is the tremendous amount of spunk Sierra has.

Favorite Quote:
"Have you ever felt like you were caught between two lives? The one you're living and the one you wish you were living?"

*I received this book free for review from Waterbrook-Multnomah Publishers *

Rating: 4 carats

Visit Robin Jones Gunn's website Buy the book

Cover Love

2011-10-10T08:00:00.011-04:00

There are so many great book covers out there. These are some of my favorites

Twenties Girls by Sophie Kinsella

The Time Traveling Fashionista by Biance Turesky

Tour De Force by Elizabeth White

Let Them Eat Cake by Sandra Byrd

Perfectly Dateless by Kristin Billerbeck

Interview with Janice Thompson

2011-10-07T08:00:00.001-04:00

Janice Thompson is a seasoned romance author. An expert at pulling the humor from the situations we get ourselves into, Thompson affords an inside look at TV land, drawing on her experiences as a screenwriter. She is the author of the Weddings by Bella series and lives in Texas.

1. This is the second book in a series; can it stand alone or do you need to read Stars Collide first?

Hello Hollywood can be read alone. However, the story’s heroine (Athena) is introduced in Stars Collide. So, if you want to get to know her (and the backstory about the sitcom) it would help to read Stars Collide first. This would also give the reader insight into the characters of Kat, Scott and Lenora.

2. In addition to being a popular author, you’ve also worked as a screenwriter; how much of your experience did you draw from to create the character of Athena?

Whether I’m writing a screenplay, a stage play or a novel, the process is much the same. I always see the story in my head, much like a movie! It’s great fun to translate what I see to the page. What bliss! I should add that my time in L.A. (writing the movie Liar’s Moon) was such a blast! That experience played heavily into my decision to write the “Backstage Pass” series.

3. Athena comes from a large, wacky Greek family and there are certain stereotypes associated with that; are you Greek or do you come from a big family?

I am not Greek, but I do have a large family (and chaos ensues whenever we’re all together). Our family is of Scottish heritage. We are the “Hanna clan” (with our roots trailing all the way back to Sorbie Castle in Scotland). When we all get together, there are nineteen and eleven small children (average age three). You can imagine what fun that is! Like every family, we have our “wacky” characters. Some in the Hanna clan would argue that I’m the wackiest of all. I’m definitely one of the few who has talking characters in her head.

4. Fans of My Big Fat Greek Wedding may see some similarities with Hello, Hollywood! was this intentional?
I’d just finished promoting my (very Italian) “Weddings by Bella” series when I started writing the “Backstage Pass” series, so some of the ethnic eccentricities in those books translated well to Athena’s story. I tried my best to shy away from My Big Fat Greek Wedding, (because I didn’t want to copy-cat). That said, it is one of my favorite movies, so I suppose some of the flavor rubbed off. Years ago I had a good friend whose family owned a Greek restaurant. I used much of what I learned from her in the sandwich shop scenes. Hope the readers are hungry for Greek food after reading!

5. Athena has a very prestigious position but also is somewhat childlike; how did you go about balancing these two seemingly opposing qualities?

Athena is a writer. We writers live half the time in the real world and half the time in an imaginary one. Keeping a childlike frame of mind is key to keeping the imagination open/active. Writers (even prestigious ones) are paid for their stories. So, shifting back and forth between the professional world and the creative world is a must for any writer, especially one in Athena’s high-profile position.

6. Athena and her writing team love classic television; is that something you find inspiration in as well?

Oh my goodness, yes! I grew up on the sitcoms and often teach on comedy writing, using sitcoms as the basis for my teaching. I’m still inspired by the antics of I Love Lucy. And I guess it’s pretty obvious that I’m nuts about the Dick Van Dyke show. Those old TV shows shaped my view of comedy and of life, in general.

7. There’s a lot of detail about Stephen’s good looks and very little attention given to Athena’s aesthetics; was this a conscious choice on your part and why?

Yes. As a writer, she’s keenly aware of the details/physical descriptions of those around her. It might not make much sense to non-writers, but we writers hone in on those around us…every detail. (After all, we’re crafting characters based on the physical descriptions of those we meet.) It makes sense for Athena to notice every detail about Stephen’s looks but overlook her own in the process. Also, I wanted the reader to know what Athena was up against. She’s not just concerned that Stephen will sweep in and steal her job…she’s got to deal with the very real issue of his handsomeness in the process! (This makes hating him so much tougher!)

8. Stephen is a single father and his daughter, Brooke, takes to Athena and her family instantly; why did you choose not to make this a point of conflict for the characters?

I couldn’t get too deep into the conflict this causes between hero and heroine because this is a first person POV book (only in Athena’s POV). If I’d added Stephen’s POV, I could have really played this out. Mostly, this story is about the tension caused on the set/in the studio.

9. Athena’s mother inherits, Zeus, a terrorizing canine from Greece; where did you get the idea for this character?

After signing the contract for this book, my editor called to ask if I would add a dog to the story (so that they could put a dog on the cover). I was told this would help sales. Ha! I had to laugh because I’m SUCH a dog lover. My friend Heather was at my house at the time. She’d been puppy sitting my two dachshunds while I was away on a trip. She helped me locate the perfect breed for the dog: the Greek Domestic dog. Made sense, because Athena’s family is from Greece. The dog-lover in me had a blast adding Zeus’s character. (Side note: Two days ago I received a call from a reporter in the D.C. area who is running a feature article on Gus, the dog who posed for the cover. Isn’t that cool?!)

10. There’s a scene in which Athena pokes fun, tongue-in-cheek, at the general perception of the Romance genre; how does Hello, Hollywood! fit into that genre?

Hello Hollywood is definitely a romance, but fits more into the romantic comedy genre than the general romance category. Most general romances are written in third-person (he said/she said). Hello Hollywood is more like the chick-lit novels of the past—written in first person and seen only through the eyes of the heroine. This provides further insight into your earlier question about why so little attention is paid to Athena’s physical attributes. Because this story is only from her POV (point of view) the “eye of the camera” (as it were) focuses only on what she sees/hears/feels, etc.

Hello, Hollywood

2011-10-03T08:00:00.017-04:00

Hello Hollywood
By Janice Thompson
About the book:
Athena Pappas is the head writer on one of the most popular sitcoms in television history. But when Vegas comedian Stephen Cosse is brought in to beef up the show's suddenly sagging ratings, she starts to worry about her job. Sparks fly as the competition--and attraction--between the two writers heats up. Athena has never had a problem scripting the romances of her characters. So why is her own love life so hard to script?

With humor and a Hollywood-insider viewpoint, Hello, Hollywood! delivers lots of laughs as the characters discover that not being in control of the plot of their lives might just be the best thing that ever happened to them.

My thoughts:

“Hello, Hollywood” is the second installment in Janice Thompson’s “Backstage Pass” series ( see the first one here )and is a lighthearted escape into the life of a TV sitcom writer's life.

“Hello, Hollywood” has an upbeat setting, is quirky with great characters, and is a lot of fun. The first line on the back cover sums it up best “When it comes to love, one thing is for sure - it doesn’t follow a script.”

To top off a great story, the book guides readers through 12 steps to writing a good story plot, mentions of old TV shows, and a dog you can’t help but fall in love with!

Favorite Quote:

“There are moments in life you wish you could just dive under the covers and hide.”

“Available September 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

Come back Friday for an interview with Janice Thompson
Rating: 4 carats

Visit Janice Thompson's website
Buy the book

The Grace of God

2011-09-26T08:00:00.007-04:00

The Grace of God
By Andy Stanley
About the book:
Learn how God's grace can and will transform you.

None of us deserves what God offers, a life free from sin and hope for a glorious future, but unbelievably it's ours for the taking. Why? Because of God's grace. The unmerited favor, the lavish love and kindness he pours out on us, and has, since Creation.

But if it's so available then why do we live a graceless life? Why are our churches filled with disillusioned Christians, weary of religion's demands, struggling with personal defeat because of issues or behaviors?

Join pastor Andy Stanley as he traces grace through the Old and New Testaments, observing God's grace at work in the lives of some of the best—and worst—characters. He also uses personal stories from his own life to reveal how grace is not a natural response but is the most essential one. Together these stories unravel the mystery of grace and tell of its transforming power to set us free.

My thoughts:

The foundation of the Christian church is built on the grace offered by God to all, received only through a personal faith by man. Churches, preachers, teachers, and every-day people share the grace of God with those who are willing to listen. Yet I have never had the principles of God’s grace shared in a manner in which Andy Stanley does in ‘The Grace of God.’

Andy gave me a new perspective of God’s grace; not changed, more renewed. Andy chose a unique approach, a better approach in sharing how God has revealed His grace through scripture. God’s grace does not begin at the cross of calvary but began ‘in the beginning’. Andy uses the Bible stories we have grown to love to expose how the grace of God has been woven into history since the beginning of man.

This book is a wonderful read for a seasoned Christian, stands to be a powerful teaching tool for a new believer, and a great witness to those who have yet to gain a personal understanding of God’s grace.

Favorite Quote:

“Grace is not reserved for good people; grace underscores the goodness of God.”

*I received this book free for review from Thomas Nelson publishers*
Rating: 5 carats

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The First Gardner

2011-08-29T08:00:00.003-04:00

The First Gardner
By Denise Hildreth Jones

About the book:
Jeremiah Williams has been tending the gardens of the Tennessee governor’s mansion for over twenty-five years. And like most first families who have come and gone, this one has stolen his heart.
Mackenzie and her husband, Governor Gray London, have struggled for ten years to have a child and are now enjoying a sweet season of life—anticipating the coming reelection and sending their precious daughter, Maddie, off to kindergarten—when a tragedy tears their world apart. As the entire state mourns, Mackenzie falls into a grief that threatens to swallow her whole.
Though his heart is also broken, Jeremiah realizes that his gift of gardening is about far more than pulling weeds and planting flowers. It’s about tending hearts as well. As he uses the tools that have been placed in his hands, he gently begins to cultivate the hard soil of Mackenzie’s heart, hoping to help her realize what it took him years to discover.
A Southern tale of loss, love, and living, The First Gardner reminds us that all of life is a gift, but our heart is the most valuable gift of all.

My Thoughs:

After reading this book I feel like saying "WOW". Denise Hildreth Jones is such a gifted writer and improves with each book. Denise has a way of crafting characters that reach out and grab your heart whether they are in good or bad situations.

"The First Gardner" has sadness hanging over it and yet it held such inspiration and wisdom, ending with a great sense of hope.

On the outside it may look as though Mackenzie and Gray have it all as the Governor and First Lady of Tennessee but inside their hearts are broken. The two are desperately searching to restore what used to be, but God has other plans and uses unexpected people to show them the way.

My favorite character of "The First Gardner" was just that, the gardener, Jeremiah. He worked so diligently at keeping the garden and was always there to give a kind word. His knowledge grew out of his own heartache and may not have been what Mackenzie and Gray wanted to hear but always seemed to be what they needed to hear.

Favorite Quote:

“Grief aint' sump'n you wanna rush. It be God's way of helpin' us get out the pain. He know if we ain't got some way to get it all out, we gon' explode. So He give us grief, He give us tears. All of them things we need to get it all out."

*I received this book free for review from Tyndale House Publishers*
Rating: 5 carats

Visit Denie Hildreth Jones' website
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Shades of Blue

2011-08-22T08:00:00.001-04:00

Shades of Blue
By Karen Kingsbury

About the book:
Brad Cutler, twenty-eight, is a rising star at his New York ad agency, about to marry the girl of his dreams. Anyone would agree he has it all … a great career, a beautiful and loving fiancee, and a fairy tale life ahead of him—when memories of a high school girlfriend begin to torment him.

Lost innocence and one very difficult choice flood his conscience, and he is no longer sure what the future will bring except for this: He must find his old love and make amends. Haunted by the past and confused about the future, he turns to God seeking forgiveness and redemption.

Three people must work through the repercussions of a decision made long ago before any of them can look toward a new future.

My Thoughts:
Karen Kingsbury is an extremely prolific writer and I have enjoyed most of her books but with this one I have mixed feelings.

As is with all of Karen Kingsbury’s books, this one is deep and emotional. Karen Kingsbury is not afraid to embark on difficult topics nor show consequences of misguided choices. "Shades of Blue" is no exception.

However, Shades of Blue is a little difficult to follow at times. Not only does the writer switch points of views but within those points of views she switches years. Readers can easily identify which character’s eyes we are seeing through but not so easily identify which period of life the characters are in, teenage or adult. Without knowing this at the onset of a scene made the reading a challenge to keep up with.

The characters were deep and well developed; readers can easily sense the pain and joy. As a whole, "Shades of Blue" is a good story, even powerful at times.

*I received this book free for review from Zondervan Publishers*

Rating:4 carats

Visit Karen Kingsbury's website
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To Die For

2011-08-15T08:00:00.001-04:00

To Die For
By Sandra Byrd

About the book:
To Die For, is the story of Meg Wyatt, pledged forever as the best friend to Anne Boleyn since their childhoods on neighboring manors in Kent. When Anne’s star begins to ascend, of course she takes her best friend Meg along for the ride. Life in the court of Henry VIII is thrilling at first, but as Anne’s favor rises and falls, so does Meg’s. And though she’s pledged her loyalty to Anne no matter what the test, Meg just might lose her greatest love—and her own life—because of it.

Meg's childhood flirtation with a boy on a neighboring estate turns to true love early on. When he is called to follow the Lord and be a priest she turns her back on both the man and his God. Slowly, though, both woo her back through the heady times of the English reformation. In the midst of it, Meg finds her place in history, her own calling to the Lord that she must follow, too, with consequences of her own. Each character in the book is tested to figure out what love really means, and what, in this life, is worth dying for.

Though much of Meg’s story is fictionalized, it is drawn from known facts. The Wyatt family and the Boleyn family were neighbors and friends, and perhaps even distant cousins. Meg’s brother, Thomas Wyatt, wooed Anne Boleyn and ultimately came very close to the axe blade for it. Two Wyatt sisters attended Anne at her death, and at her death, she gave one of them her jeweled prayer book—Meg.

My Thoughts:

“To Die For” is a fictional look at the Anne Boylen-era but through the eyes of her best friend Meg Wyatt, which makes “To Die For” unique from other Tudor-era novels. The story follows them from the time they are teenagers to after both are married.

This book is filled with rich descriptions which was my favorite thing. Sandra Byrd has obviously done quite a bit of research and it shows. I haven’t been one to read historical fiction in the past so this took a little concentration for me, yet simply reading about the regal clothes and jewelry was worth the read!

The personal friendship between Anne Boleyn and Meg Wyatt is pretty incredible. They stood by one another and, as you will see, Meg sacrificed a lot of be by Anne’s side

Anyone who loves historical fiction or the Tudor-era will absolutely love this book.

Favorite Quote:

“A sweet voice, a deep voice, a voice that made me wish for all things that could be and mayhap a willingness to throw away all things that must be in order to gain them - to die for.”

Rating: 4 carats

Visit Sandra Byrd's website
Buy the book

Interview with Betsy St Amant

2011-08-05T08:00:00.001-04:00

1. IF "Fireman Dad" were a movie who would you want to play the main characters?
Ohhh, tricky. Let's see. Marissa could be Julianne Hough (actor/singer/dancer) and Jacob would be Josh Duhamel :)

2. What gave you the idea for or inspired "Fireman Dad"?
My husband is a fireman, and he's always wanted me to write a fireman book. So I did this one partially for him, and partially because so much of it is a true story that we lived out. (see the Dear Reader letter in the back of the novel) It begged to be told in some form.

3. At Pink Sapphire, we rate books in carats. 5 carats being a great book! What are your 5 carat books?
To list just a few (otherwise I'd take up your entire blog!) I'd have to include Siri Mitchell's "She Walks In Beauty", Julie Lessman's entire Daughters of Boston Series, Liz Curtis Higgs entire recent Scotland series, Rene Gutteridge's "Boo" series, Lisa Wingate's "Daily Texas" series, and Susan May Warren/Susan Down's Russian series from several years ago. They all linger with me.

4. What is the one thing you hope readers take away from your book?
I hope my readers feel a little challenged or encouraged in their faith when they put down of one of my novels. Either challenged to grow deeper spiritually, and meet a goal for themselves that the characters did, or encouraged that the rainbow is often just around the corner from the storm. Whichever they need most at the time.

5. Have you always wanted to be a writer? When did you first begin to write?
Yes! Truly, my entire life. I was writing short stories on my home computer at the age of 7. I always knew I wanted to be published and set out making that a serious goal when I turned 18.

6. What book do you wish you’d written?
Lisa Samson's "The Passion of Mary Margaret". It was so unique and deep and amazing. I loved the story for so many reasons. Highly recommend.

7. Do you also write music?
No, unfortunately. I'd love to, but that's not where my skills are! My dad is very talented on the guitar. I think if I could magically have any musical ability granted to me by a genie, I'd want to be a pro on the fiddle. I have my bluegrass side ;)

8. You're in line at Starbucks, what are you ordering?
Oh easy! Tall, non fat, white chocolate mocha. No whip, unless I'm celebrating...

9. If you could spend the day with any person who is living, who would it be and why? Maybe Nicholas Sparks, to pick his brain about where he gets the emotion and the ideas for his best sellers!! :)

10. What's up next for you?
Next is my Young Adult novel via Barbour Publishers, releasing January 2012 and titled ADDISON BLAKELY: CONFESSIONS OF A PK. It's the story of a teen girl who is a preacher's daughter and struggling to live life in the fishbowl as she starts to question the depth of her own faith...and her unwanted feelings for the "bad boy" down the street...

Fireman Dad

2011-08-01T08:00:00.002-04:00

Fireman Dad

By Betsy St Amant

About the book:

Widowed mother Marissa Hawthorne’s little boy wants to be like his new hero—firefighter Jacob Greene. But Marissa and her son lost too much to the profession of firefighting already. She can’t possibly let either of them get close to the man, no matter how noble he is. Especially because her own father is Jacob’s boss. But when Jacob hires her to plan a special birthday party for his niece, Marissa soon learns that Jacob is a hero in many ways. And that taking risks for love is what life and faith are truly about.

About Betsy

Betsy St. Amant lives in Louisiana and is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers group. Betsy is multi-published through Steeple Hill and has been published in Christian Communicator magazine and Praise Reports: Inspiring Real Life Stories of How God Answers Prayer. One of her short stories, ‘Kickboxing or Chocolate’, appears in a Tyndale compilation book, and she is also multi-published through The Wild Rose Press. She has a BA in Christian Communications and regularly freelances for her local newspaper. Betsy is a fireman’s wife, a mommy to a busy toddler, a chocolate-loving author and an avid reader who enjoys sharing the wonders of God’s grace through her stories.

My Thoughts:

“Fireman Dad” is a sweet love story which asks the question “can you trust God with your heart?”

Event planner Marissa is mourning the loss of her firefighter husband, lost in the line of duty, while struggling to maintain a relationship with her workaholic fire chief father. Marissa takes on a new client who she begins to having feelings for, only to discover he too is a firefighter. Will Marissa be able to let go of the fear of being hurt another time?

Betsy St Amant tells a story of heartbreak and love which draws the reader into Marissa’s struggles of overcoming her fears and longings in order to move on with her life. You won’t be disappointed reading this book as the characters can easily teach every reader lessons about oneself and the ability we each possess to trust God to carry our burdens.

Favorite Quote:

“Sometimes you have to let someone else carry the burden.”

Come back Friday for an interview with Betsy

Rating: 5 carats

Visit Betsy's website

Buy the book

Enemies of the Heart

2011-07-25T08:00:00.002-04:00

Enemies of the Heart

By Andy Stanley

About the book:
In this compelling and helpful book, previously published as It Came From Within!, pastor and author Andy Stanley wrestles with what he calls "four invaders of the heart"--guilt, anger, greed, and jealousy. One or another of these caustic emotions sabotages lives on a daily basis and destroys relationships. But Stanley assures readers that there is hope. In his trademark style--smart, engaging, and popular--he examines where these powerful forces come from and reveals effective strategies for overcoming them and moving toward healing and maturity.

My Thoughts:
“Enemies of the Heart” is a convicting read about the health of one’s heart, not the literal heart but the state of one’s heart before the Lord. Andy Stanley presents four destructive emotions that can take hold in our heart: guilt, anger, greed, and jealousy. The first section of the book is about diagnosing these emotions and the second part of the book addresses how to fix them.

This is a good book. The author is very straight forward and has easy-to-grasp concepts which when applied can be very useful in our lives. Andy Stanley quotes a lot of scripture to explain his points, all of which are very applicable to life.

Being “Enemies of the Heart” is so straight forward in concepts and application; I think it would make for a great Bible Study.

I listened to the audio version of this book and at first I thought the narrator was very dull. As the book went on he became easier to listen to and his voice seemed to match the subject matters he was speaking about.

Favorite Quote;

“When our embarrassment level has exceeded our desperation level, we are a candidate for God’s grace.”

*I received this audiobook free for review from Christianaudio.com*

Rating: 4 carats

Buy the audiobook

Story Engineering

2011-07-18T08:00:00.001-04:00

Story Engineering

By Larry Brooks

About the book:

From story concept to character development to scene construction and beyond, this blueprint for dynamic storytelling makes putting together a strong novel, memoir, or screenplay easier than ever. Beginning writers in all genres?from fiction writers to nonfiction writers to screenplay writers will learn how to wrap their heads around the big picture of storytelling at a professional level through a new approach that shows how to combine six core competencies: the four elemental competencies of concept, character, theme, and story structure (plot); and the two executional competencies of scene construction and writing voice. You'll discover how to achieve the greatest potential in your story through mastering the way these six factors combine and empower each other on the page.

My Thoughts:
Story Engineering sets out to show that there is a basic model that any story can be built upon. This is not a how to book but a book on writing that shows six core concepts to writing a great story.

This book was hard to read, most of it was analogy after analogy. It tooks three chapters of basically repeating himself before you ever find out what his supposed “six core competencies” are and nearly 150 page before he gets to explaining how to execute them.

If the author cut down on all his babble this book would probably be half the size it is and much more effective. That being said, once he finally got to the point he had a lot of valuable advice for anyone interested in writing a great story.

*I received this book free for review from Tyndale House Publishers*

Favorite Quote:

“We can work hard or we can work smart. Hopefully both. A killer story development model doesn’t take the hard work out of writing, but in any case it infuses the process with a heavy dose of smart.”

Rating: 4 carats

Visit Larry Brook's website Buy the book

Area 51

2011-07-04T08:00:00.007-04:00

Area 51

By Annie Jacobsen

About the book:

It is the most famous military installation in the world. And it doesn't exist. Located a mere seventy-five miles outside of Las Vegas in Nevada's desert, the base has never been acknowledged by the U.S. government-but Area 51 has captivated imaginations for decades.

Myths and hypotheses about Area 51 have long abounded, thanks to the intense secrecy enveloping it. Some claim it is home to aliens, underground tunnel systems, and nuclear facilities. Others believe that the lunar landing itself was filmed there. The prevalence of these rumors stems from the fact that no credible insider has ever divulged the truth about his time inside the base. Until now.

Annie Jacobsen had exclusive access to nineteen men who served the base proudly and secretly for decades and are now aged 75-92, and unprecedented access to fifty-five additional military and intelligence personnel, scientists, pilots, and engineers linked to the secret base, thirty-two of whom lived and worked there for extended periods. In Area 51, Jacobsen shows us what has really gone on in the Nevada desert, from testing nuclear weapons to building super-secret, supersonic jets to pursuing the War on Terror.

This is the first book based on interviews with eye witnesses to Area 51 history, which makes it the seminal work on the subject. Filled with formerly classified information that has never been accurately decoded for the public, Area 51 weaves the mysterious activities of the top-secret base into a gripping narrative, showing that facts are often more fantastic than fiction, especially when the distinction is almost impossible to make.

My Thoughts:

There is an old saying ‘truth is stranger than fiction’ and, if the information and statements in this book which are claimed to be true and factual actually are true and factual, well then truth really is stranger than fiction. At least it is for the ‘Normal Joe’ most of us Americans are.

I believe the majority of US citizens have an unspoken understanding that our government participates in many activities purposely kept secret from the general public in the name of national security. Is it necessary? Do the ends justify the means? The answers to such questions are as varied and opinionated as there are individuals.

The book is not a whimsical light read but requires a certain amount of focus and attention to detail in order to maintain a fluid understanding of the events and claims shared. Much of the information can be verified and is therefore factual. Others may be left to a more personal interpretation.

All in all this book could prove to have an almost cult following from those individuals who thrive on the knowledge of espionage and the secret activities taken by our government to ensure our beliefs in life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. It is full of many interesting details that had never previously crossed my mind but intrigued me.

Favorite Quote:

Winston Churchill famously said of Russia, “It is a riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside an enigma.” The same can be said about Area 51.

*I received this book free for review from Hachette Book Group*

Rating: 4 carats

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Working It out

2011-06-27T08:00:00.001-04:00

Working It Out
By Abby Rike
About the book:
In 2006, Abby Rike lost the life she knew and loved when her husband and two young children were killed in a car accident. Devastated and numb, she shut down. For nearly three years she walked through life like a spectre, present in body only. As she descended, so did her health.

Fortunately, Abby was not alone. She had loving parents, supportive friends, and a faith that continued to sustain her. Little by little she found the courage to return to life. Joining The Biggest Loser proved a catalyst for the physical and emotional changes she needed to make. In fact, against all odds Abby gained strength, courage, wisdom, and continued her steadfast relationship with God. Instead of anger, she found herself slowly but steadily healing. She lost a hundred pounds but gained hope.

In this riveting book, Abby tells her story--from her joyous life before the accident to the unbearable pain that followed it and her eventual emergence as a woman reinvigorated by her faith in God. Today Abby's resilience and positivity are a testament to the power and importance of faith in the darkest hours

My Thoughts:

Few people allow others to see into their heart; Abby Rike opens hers to the world. This book is a true journey of love, loss and hope reaching deep into the heart of Abby Rike. Abby gives the world the opportunity to know her, her husband Rick, beautiful Macey, and dear baby Caleb.

For most it is hard to comprehend how anyone who has found meaningful love in one’s life to continue to find strength and praise in God once that love has been taken. Yet Abby uses her beliefs and trust in the Lord to share with others how to overcome such loss and make a difference in not only her life but in the life of anyone willing to take the time to learn from her life story. Life gives and takes away. The key to making it through is understanding where to turn for strength and who to guide you through.

Abby went through great suffering, pain, and loneliness with the loss of her family but the choice she made at the crash site is what has helped her be successful. Abby’s journey isn’t done because God isn’t finished with her yet.

Favorite Quote:

“Sometimes we can’t change the world in the snap of a finger, but just by changing one little thing in someone’s heart changes the world for that person. And when we change the world for one person, the domino effect begins.”

* I received this book free for review from Faithwords Publishing, a division of Hachette Book Group*
Rating : 5 carats

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Double Take

2011-06-20T08:00:00.003-04:00

Double Take

By Melody Carlson

About the book:

Have you ever wondered what would happen if you could switch your life with someone else for just one day? Readers will live the one-week experiences of a bored Amish girl and stressed out socialite when they decide to switch places in Double Take.

Spring break has arrived. It’s her senior year, and Madison VanBuren is fed up with her surroundings and the pressures of life. Stressed out over choosing an Ivy League school that will please her parents, their marital problems, and her boyfriend's pressure, Madison gets in her car and drives west.

Meanwhile, eighteen-year-old Anna Fisher wants to escape the so-called simple life--which for her consists of caring for younger siblings, sewing, cooking, and gardening--and she's well aware that her future will simply be more of the same with a man she doesn't love.

Madison and Anna stumble into each other in a small town. Realizing their looks are uncannily similar, they both think their lives are boring. Thinking the grass is greener on the other side, they make a decision that will transform them forever and switch lives for one week.

Readers will love this funny and provocative tale of switching places from bestselling author Melody Carlson. As they get a glimpse and understanding of these two very different worlds. They may find themselves happy to be just who they are, and where they are

My Thoughts:
I was really excited to read this book; there is a lot of Amish fiction out there and a lot of contemporary fiction but none combining both settings.

Madison Van Buren is a wealthy teenager is New York City is on Spring Break and frustrated with her life. She longs for peace but doesn’t know how to find it.

Anna Fischer is a sweet Amish girl deciding whether she wants to fully commit herself to Amish ways.

In a chance meeting the girls realize they look enough a like to switch places and explore the other side of life. Seeing as they both want out of they have it’s a win-win, or is it?

Melody Carlson does a great job of showing the surprises of walking a mile in someone else’s shoes and what it can teach you. Some of my favorite scenes where when the girls were learned something about the other culture and how it made them view their own lives.

Favorite Quote:

“But Madison felt certain that God appreciated simplicity. Because that was where she found him and that was where she was determined to remain”

*Available June 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.*
Rating: 4 carats

visit Melody Carlson's wesbite
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Hollywood Ending

2011-06-14T08:00:00.002-04:00

Hollywood Ending
By Lucie Simone

About the book:
Trina Stewart needs cash. Fast. She’s barely got enough dough to keep her fanny off the streets, let alone any spending money on Sunset Strip. And her job teaching English as a Second Language is seriously lacking in both pay and glamour. But not just any job will do. She’s after a real Hollywood job. The kind that makes her $100,000 in film school debt and ten years in Tinsel Town not seem like such a big fat waste of time and money. But a girl can’t fritter away all her time fretting over her next paycheck, can she? Certainly not when a man like Matiu Wulf, a s Maori from New Zealand, parks his oh-so-fine self in the apartment above hers while he takes his best shot at Showbiz.

If only Matiu didn’t seem so… repelled by Trina. Really, though, it’s Los Angeles that Matiu finds so revolting. He’s only in L.A. to get some scene design experience to beef up his resume, and then he’s headed back to New Zealand to follow his dreams in peace, thank you very much. That’s his plan, anyway, until he falls hard for Trina…and Trina falls under the spell of a toothy-grinned wannabe actor who charms the pants right off her.

With Matiu on a mission to win Trina’s heart, and Trina on a mission to nail down that ever elusive Hollywood job, these two soon discover that when love gets tossed in the mix, life in Tinsel Town isn’t all red carpets, after parties, and celebrity gossip.

My Thoughts:

This book is a quick, glitzy read about trying to make it in the film industry all while staying true to oneself.

The main character, Trina, has a lot of spunk and is bubbling over with wit. Her quest to pay off her film school debts and decide whether or not she wants to date her neighbor, Maitu, definitely kept for a curious plot. While the main characters offered a lot to the story many of the supporting characters acted in ways which seemed forced throughout the book.

Favorite Quote:

"Even Juliet's tropic-inspired surroundings couldn't soothe the prickles beginning to form under her skin."

Rating: 3 carats

Visit Lucie's website Buy the book

An Interview with Lucie Simone
1. What inspired the idea for your book?
Hollywood Ending was inspired by my own experiences trying to get ahead in the entertainment industry in Los Angeles. While finishing my masters at a top film school, I taught English as a Second Language, and once I graduated, I found it very difficult to actually get a job in my field. I also wanted to write a story that depicted the Hollywood that I know and love. It’s more than just celebrities! And it’s got a lot of charm, if you know where to look. Many of the characters in Hollywood Ending are also based on people in my own life, whether that be a waiter, an ex-boyfriend, or my best friend.

2. If your book were a movie, who would you want to play the main characters?
Good question! I think for Trina, I’d love to see Ginnifer Goodwin in the role. She wouldn’t even have to wear a wig since Trina sports a pixie just like Ginnifer’s. She’s super cute and sassy like Trina, but also capable of portraying real emotional depth. As for Matiu, gee, I don’t know! The producers might have to head to New Zealand for him since he’s Maori, and whomever were to portray him would have to embody all that exotic manly charm with a Kiwi accent.

3. Which character interested you most while writing?
All the major characters were really fun to write, but the one that most intrigues me now is Trina’s best friend, Juliet. She’s facing a major life change and has some issues regarding love and men that she has to work through. Luckily, I’ll get to explore her character more in depth soon because she’s getting her own book!

4. You’re in line at Starbucks, what are you ordering?
A tall, non-fat, 4-pump Chai Latte. (I like it spicy!). If I’m hungry, I might also get a piece of Very Berry Coffee Cake. Yum!

5. What are you currently working on? What is next for you?

Right now, I’m in the middle of writing my second novel, Picture Perfect, about a TV producer whose soon-to-be-ex-husband and former assistant launch a smear campaign against her, which leads to a grisly murder and targets her as the main suspect. It’s Hollywood at its most scandalous best! I also just released my short story, A Taste of Italy, for the Nook and Kindle. At 99 cents, it’s a steal!

Departures

2011-06-06T08:00:00.003-04:00

Departures
By Robin Jones Gunn

About the book:
This book includes a short story about Christy Miller and Sierra Jensen. In the note below, Robin explains the re-release of this frequently requested novella.

“Rediscovered” is such a great word. It makes me think of that happy moment that comes when you open a suitcase and out tumbles a tiny shell you picked up on the beach on your last vacation.

My husband and I recently moved. In the middle of the packing of my old nest I found the original floppy disc where I stored this book when I first wrote it in 1995. It was a lovely rediscovery moment. My agent and I agreed that this book went out of print too soon. The team at Waterbrook/ Multnomah Publishers jumped onboard and agreed to make “Departures” available once again.

I think you’ll enjoy having an opportunity to pop in to see what happened with Christy and Sierra during a summer season that was full of changes for both of them. As I went through the restored manuscript while sitting in my new nest after our move, I felt as if I were visiting with old friends. The stories still bring a smile. I hope you’ll have the same experience as you read “Departures”.

My Thoughts:

In the prologue Robin Jones Gunn writes, "Rediscovered is beautiful word" as she talks about the moment she came across two stories she wrote years ago but had somehow packed away. After reading "Departures" I have to say discovered is also a beautiful word!

"Departures" is two novellas, one about Christy Miller and the other Sierra Jensen, the two characters who catapulted Robin Jones Gunn into the heart of teenage girls over 20 years ago. Now a whole new generation is discovering Christy and Sierra.

Both the stories were a lot of fun. The novellas center around the girls (Christy and Sierra) learning what to put behind them in order to grow as a person.

Robin Jones Gunn has a wonderful way of writing a fun story and wrapping in nuggets of great advice as you turn the pages just like opening a present.

After reading these two stories, I want to go back and reread the entire Christy Miller and Sierra Jensen series because their personalities and stories put a smile on my face.

Favorite Quote:

"Sierra made another mental note that while going down the river of her life, at times she would have to be still while everyone else was busy with what they were instructed to do. That didn't mean that she was being left out, but that rather, for that place and time, she was supposed to sit."

*I received this book free for review from Waterbook-Multnomah Publsihers*
Rating: 5 carats

Visit Robin Gunn's website Buy the book

An Interview With Karen Kingsbury

2011-06-03T08:00:00.001-04:00

About Karen:

USA Today and New York Times bestselling author Karen Kingsbury is America's #1 inspirational novelist. There are nearly 20 million copies of her award-winning books in print, including several million copies sold in the past year. Karen has written more than 50 novels, ten of which have hit #1 on national lists.

Karen's newest novel, Unlocked, released Oct. 12 and has stayed in Amazon's top fifty for the past few weeks. Unlocked debuted at No. 3 on the New York Times Bestsellers list. Another recent and popular title of Karen's is Shades of Blue - the story of a 28-year-old ad executive who is six weeks away from marrying the girl he loves. But as he prepares for his wedding, something brings up his past girlfriend - a girl he dated in high school. He realizes he can't go forward and say, "I do," until he goes back to Holden Beach, finds the girl he loved back then, and tell her he's sorry.

Karen's novel Like Dandelion Dust is the subject of a major motion picture currently in theaters. Like Dandelion Dust stars Academy Award winning Mira Sorvino and Barry Pepper, along with Cole Hauser and Maxwell Perry Cotton. The film has received more than 30 awards in the Film Festival Circuit including numerous Best Picture awards. Several of Karen's books are currently under theatrical development.

1.Where do you get your story ideas?

I get my ideas from life happening around me, mostly. The news, the radio, a conversation, a trend, a contemporary struggle of some sort. Obviously the war is very contemporary, and the issues are those facing all Americans . . . that sort of thing. But most of all, my ideas come from the Lord. He puts the picture in my head, the whole story. It’s very visual. I’m just responsible for getting it onto paper.

2.What are the steps you take when you write a new book?

First I take an idea that God has placed on my heart, and I find a title. Next I flesh out the characters. I name them, give them biographies, strengths, weaknesses, etc. I figure out how the story will change them, make them stronger, and how God will be glorified in the process. Finally I write a very detailed chapter outline. From there, I write the book.

3. Which of the books that you have written is your favorite and why?

Each of my books is special to me so that’s a tough question to answer. Each story was placed on my heart by God, and comes with a theme or storyline that God has used to change the lives of various readers.

4. You've said, "Christian fiction is more powerful than other fiction." Could you expound on this?

Christian or inspirational fiction is more powerful because the characters can be fully developed. In mainstream fiction, readers can only learn about a characters physical, intellectual, and emotional traits. But with inspirational fiction, readers can learn about the character’s spiritual traits, as well. In this way, readers are identifying with these books like none others. I’ve trademarked my fiction – Life-Changing Fiction™ because I hear from hundreds of readers every week who say God is using these novels to change their lives. That’s more powerful than books written for sheer entertainment value.

5. You were a reporter for the LA Times & LA Daily News long before you were a novelist. What first drew you to journalism?

I knew from fifth grade on that I wanted to be an author, but I also understood that not everyone can become a novelist. Journalism was my back-up plan. It was something I loved to do, and it was a job I could take to any place in the world. The camaraderie of the newsroom is something I still miss, but no question my work as a reporter opened doors for me to become an author

Visit Karen's website
Buy her books

Leaving

2011-05-30T08:00:00.002-04:00

Leaving
By Karen Kingsbury

About the book:
The Bailey Flanigan Series begins with Leaving. Bailey leaves Bloomington, Indiana for the adventure of a lifetime. She has won an audition for the ensemble of a Broadway musical in New York City.

Bailey is determined to take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but is she really ready to leave family and friends for the loneliness of the city? And what of Cody? His disappearance has her worried about their future and praying that their love can survive.

My Thoughts:
“Leaving” continues to follow the Baxter family and this time focuses on Bailey Flannigen as she tries to figure out what to do with her life. Does she take the opportunity to move to New York City and be on Broadway or stay in Bloomington, Indiana with her family?

“Leaving” illustrates how we may leave everything that is familiar to us but God will never leave us.

This book flows right along with all of Karen Kingsbury other books. It is very emotional and life is always challenging and changing these characters.

Come back Friday for an interview with Karen Kingsbury

*I received this book free for review from Zondervan Publishers*

Rating: 4 carats

Visit Karen's website Buy the book

Battlefield of the Mind

2011-05-23T08:00:00.002-04:00

Battlefield of the Mind
By Joyce Meyer
About the book:
Worry, doubt, confusion, depression, anger and feelings of condemnation: all these are attacks on the mind. If readers suffer from negative thoughts, they can take heart! Joyce Meyer has helped millions win these all-important battles. In her most popular bestseller ever, the beloved author and minister shows readers how to change their lives by changing their minds.

She teaches how to deal with thousands of thoughts that people think every day and how to focus the mind the way God thinks. And she shares the trials, tragedies, and ultimate victories from her own marriage, family, and ministry that led her to wondrous, life-transforming truth--and reveals her thoughts and feelings every step of the way.

My Thoughts:

I was impressed with this book from the first page. Battlefield of the Mind is based in the fact that our actions are controlled by our thoughts and without even realizing it we are in battle for our thoughts with Satan.

This book starts out by explaining the most common ways we are deceived into poor thinking patterns and then goes onto giving us the ammunition we need to change our thought patterns.

There is so much information packed into each page of this book. It is very clearly written and Biblically based. It has the ability to be a wonderful Bible study tool

Favorite Quote:

“If you use wisdom, you will find God meeting your needs. Anyone operating in the mind of Christ will walk in wisdom- not emotions”

* I received this book free for review from Faith Words, a division of Hachette Book Group*
Rating: 5 carats

Visit Joyce Meyer's website Buy the book

An Object of Beauty

2011-05-16T08:00:00.000-04:00

An Object of Beauty
By Steve Martin

About the book:
A captivating presence who naturally draws in everyone around her, Lacey Yeager appears on the New York art scene as a clever and funny young intern at Sotheby’s. With her charm, ambition, and questionable and sometimes illegal tactics, she climbs the cultural ladder, step by step, and moves from cataloging paintings to success in the labyrinthine and mysterious art world. Her knowledge of art and art collectors quickly grows, and the list of men she enchants and inevitably destroys grows right alongside it. Her rise to the highest tiers of the city’s social life parallel the soaring heights—and, at times, the dark lows—of the art world and the country from the early 1990s through today.

My Reveiew:
I thought this book would be funny. It wasn't. It wasn't anything I would expect from Steve Martin.

This is really a story of misplaced values and greed. Lacey Yegar is fresh out of college and begins to work in the art world. Lacey quickly learns how too much money can lead to lies and deception.

A person who loves art and art history will probably like this book the best because it is rich with art descriptions and history yet other than that the plot is weak. Lacey, although smart, seems rather cold and aimless. It felt like I was waiting for Lacey to have some sort of breakthrough but with all that happened around her, Lacey remained unchanged and dull.

*I received this audiobook free for review from Hachette Book Group
Rating: 3 carats

Visit Steve's website Buy the audiobook

Save the Date

2011-05-09T08:00:00.003-04:00

Save the Date
BY Jenny B Jones
About the book:
Former NFL star Alex Sinclair is a man who has it all–except the votes he needs to win his bid for Congress.

Despite their mutual dislike, Alex makes Lucy a proposition: pose as his fiancee in return for the money she desperately needs.

Bound to a man who isn’t quite what he seems, Lucy will find her heart on the line–and maybe even her life.

When God asks Alex and Lucy to scrap their playbook and follow his rules, will they finally say, “I do”?

My Thoughts:

I liked this book as it was both sweet and funny. The characters were unique, and I was always surprised by what happened next. The characters were engaging and fun.

The main character, Lucy, is filled with spunk and passion. She loves her job at a girls homes and is willing to do almost anything to save it from closing down, even faking an engagement to Alex Sinclair, a former football player now running for congress in need of votes.

Lucy thinks she has Alex all figured out from the tabloid reports of him but quickly learns he's more complex than she ever imagined.

A great book to read anytime.

Favorite line:

"She didn't have a face that would sell the latest parisian perfume. Nor did she possess the confident air that ladies in his world wore like a necessary undergarment. But if he peeled back her hostility and the years of the bratty youth, Lucy Wiltshire was still a traffic stopper."

Rating: 4 carats

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An Interview with Sandra Byrd

2011-04-29T09:00:00.002-04:00

About Sandra Byrd:

After earning her first rejection at the age of thirteen, bestselling author Sandra Byrd went on to publish more than three dozen books including her widely-acclaimed adult fiction debut, Let Them Eat Cake, and her recent 4-book young adult fiction series, London Confidential. Publishing her Tudor Series, Ladies in Waiting, is a lifelong dream come true.

A former textbook acquisitions editor, Sandra is also an accomplished non-fiction writer and author. Her articles have appeared in numerous publications such as Radiant, Focus on the Family's Clubhouse Magazine, Christian Parenting Today, Today's Christian Woman, the Oregonian, Pockets, Decision, and Guideposts. For nearly a decade Sandra has mentored hundreds of students through the Christian Writer's Guild.

Sandra resides in Washington State with her husband Michael, a chaplain, their two children, and a circus dog named Brie.

Read my reviews of the London Confidential Series book 1, 2, 3, and 4

1.What gave you the idea or inspired the London Confidential series?

I get ideas from life all around me. From the circumstances I and others go through, from exciting places and times in history, from an overheard conversation or remark. Anything is fair game! I also think it's fun to learn about how people can live in different places, and have different racial, family, or nationalities but deep inside, in the heart, we are all pretty much the same. We have the same needs, to be loved and to love, to feel wanted and have an important calling, and the same fears, rejection, embarrassment, being alone. Plus, isn't it just fun to go new places and meet new people, even in books?

I moved quite a bit when I was growing up, so the challenges that Savvy faces in relation to that are ones I can relate to as well. I do love London , too! :)

2. What is the one thing you hope readers take away from your book?
Be strong and courageous. Dream big. Trust God even when it seems very dark. Love people but don't let them walk on you. Live with joy and faith.

3. If "Flirting with Disaster" were a movie who would you want to play the main characters?
Hmm. How about Emma Roberts for Savvy, Emma Watson for Penny, possibly America Ferrara for Hazel. The guys are much harder. Blonde and British? Curly brown hair and British? Maybe we'll have to go on a talent hunt!

4. Do you ever find it challenging to get to you keyboard everyday? What do you do when the words won't come?
The hardest part of anything is getting started. Getting started with a new book, a new chapter, a new page, or just sitting down at the computer and staying there till I've done my word count. Once I get about 300 words down on paper, I'm on a roll and I can stay in the zone. Those first 300 are hard, though.

5. What is your writing process?
I dream for a few months and let things knit together in my head and heart, jotting down notes as necessary. Then I throw some queries to my focus group readers and close friends. Then I outline - religiously. Next, I write, a word count per day, every day, till the first draft is done. I send it off to the focus group readers and beg them not to give me any comments for at least a week while I gather my marbles back together and take a long nap.When the comments come back, I tweak the manuscript. Then it's off to my editors, where I await round two!

6. What is the best advice youve ever been given?
If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it. (Matthew10:39)

7. What are two things people would be surprised to know about you?
I eat Lemonheads nonstop while writing a rough draft to help me deal with the tension. If I had to be stranded on a desert island with only one luxury, it would be fresh lemonade. I guess I am a lemon fan.

If I weren't a writer I'd be a chef or a baker and my favorite non-writing websites and blogs are almost all related to food.

8. What is on your cd player/ iPod?
It changes every day. Today? Third Day, Abney Park, Redlight King, Jars of Clay, Kenny Wayne Shepherd.

9. When you're not writing, what are you doing?
Cooking and baking, spending time with my family and friends, music, and, of course, reading!

To see what's next for Sandra Byrd or friend her on facebook click on over to her website

Flirting with Disaster

2011-04-25T09:00:00.002-04:00

Flirting with Disaster
By Sandra Byrd
About the book:
n a shocking turn of events, all writers for the Wexburg Academy Times will cast their votes for next year's editor - and it looks like Savvy's vote will be the tie breaker! She must choose between a nasty-girl-turned-nice, with a sudden interest in letting Savvy get what she wants, and the prickly Hazelle, who promises nothing at all. Savvy then finds herself wrapped up in a new, seemingly innocent but potentially dangerous activity. It's all at risk in this book: her position on the paper, the boy she likes, the ministry she wants to go well. At a critical moment, Savvy must figure out how to rely on God rather than luck and to overcome temptation before it is too late.

My Review:

Flirtng with Disaster is the fourth and final book in Sandra Byrd’s London Condfidential series (read about1, 2, and 3 here). Savannah Smith has finally settled into her new hometown outside of London, England, is nearly part of the popular group the Aristocrats, as well as settling into to her duties at the paper. Everything is going along swimmingly until she starts getting forwarded emails and text messages saying that is she doesn’t pass them on to some many people in a set amount of time bad things will happen. As a Christian, Savvy knows not to be superstitious but the pull of playing the game is strong when it can mean the difference between fitting in the Aristocrats or not.

I really liked how this series wrapped up so sweetly. Savvy has a way entering into your heart and I couldn’t help but continually root for her to make the right decisions.

Sandra Byrd did an awesome job of tying up all the loose ends from all four books. It was a lot of fun to learn bits and pieces of English culture as well as the way Savvy weaved what she was learning in youth group and Bible study to her weekly newspaper column.

All four books were a quick and fun read. I“d love to see more of Savvy Smith in the future!

Favorite Quote:

“But every good thing only comes from God.”

Come back Friday for an interview with Sandra Byrd!

Rating: 5 carats

Visit Sandra's website Buy the book

Max On Life

2011-04-18T08:00:00.009-04:00

Max on Life

By Max Lucado

About the book:

We have questions. Child-like inquiries. And deep, heavy ones.

In more than twenty-five years of writing and ministry, Max Lucado has been the receiving line for thousands of such questions. The questions come in letters, e-mails, even on Dunkin Donuts napkins. In Max on Life he offers thoughtful answers to more than 150 of the most pressing questions on topics ranging from hope to hurt, from home to the hereafter.

Max writes about the role of prayer, the purpose of pain, and the reason for our ultimate hope. He responds to the day-to-day questions—parenting quandaries, financial challenges, difficult relationships—as well as to the profound: Is God really listening?

A special addendum includes Max’s advice on writing and publishing.
Including topical and scriptural indexes and filled with classic Lucado encouragement and insight, Max on Life will quickly become a favorite resource for pastors and ministry leaders as well as new and mature believers.

My Thoughts:

Max on Life - what a great idea for a book. This book is filled with questions Max has been consistently asked over the years and his associated answers. The questions cover many topics and Max has very definitive answers for each. Max Lucado is very intelligent, extremely knowledgeable about the Bible, and a master at applying biblical concepts to life. Max answers these questions with a concise, common sense filled approach.

My favorite thing about this book is its ability to serve multiple purposes. I can see the book used as Bible study or devotional companion, a reference book, a coffee table book as well as a tool of witness for Christ. Max addresses many theological questions answering in an easy to understand manner.

Favorite Quote:

“You are always on God’s itinerary. Come and go as you wish, but he’s always there.”

Rating: a whole gem parcel

Visit Max Lucado's website
Buy the book

Interview with Denise Hildreth Jones

2011-04-15T08:00:00.002-04:00

About Denise Hildreth -Jones:
Denise Hildreth-Jones is a writer and international speaker. She has spoken for the last decade to women’s ministries, churches, and for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. Denise began her career over seventeen years ago writing for other people. She eventually ventured into the world of fiction with her first novel, Savannah from Savannah, and has since published several books. Her novels have been featured in Southern Living; hailed as “smart and witty” by Library Journal; and chosen for the Pulpwood Queen’s and Women of Faith book clubs. And her recent novel is Hurricanes in Paradise. Denise makes her home in Nashville, Tennessee where she lives with her husband, five bonus children, two dogs and enjoys a good book and a Coca-Cola.

1. "Flying Solo"is your journal through the first year of divorce, what do you think journaling did for your healing?

I think it was vital to my healing. One of the best gifts that I gave myself. When I was incapable of praying those journals were my prayers.

2. Do you have any advice for journaling?

Don't go into it with an agenda. Simply let it be a place where your feelings and thoughts and emotion can flow out freely. And making them prayers or letters to God is always a beautiful way to journal.

3. You also talk about your alive journal, will you tell a more about that and how it helped you?

One of the things I lost inside my marriage was my heart. I just shut it down. I forgot what I liked, and just became a heart that merely existed. But when I sat in my counselor's office the first time I knew I had to get my heart back. And I went on a desperate attempt to reclaim my heart. So my "alive" journal was where I recorded all of the moments that I felt completely alive. Like riding horses, being at Disney World...all of the things that made me belly laugh and feel completely alive.

4. What do you hope readers will take away from "Flying Solo"

That singleness is not something to wish away. That God is abundantly present in a detailed way in the depths of our pain. And reclaiming a shut down heart is the most wonderful gift you can give yourself.

5. What is your writing process?

Well, fiction is different from non-fiction. Non-fiction is more purposeful. You know where you're going. It is far more outlined and structured. But my fiction is completely organic. I usually know where I will begin and sometimes know where I will end, but each day I ask God to show up having no idea where we will go. And each day He does. And after about six months we have us a new book!

6. When you write do you always have a message in mind. Or does it come about as you write the characters?

(I answered this I think in the above answer)

7.Do you ever find it challenging to get to you keyboard everyday? What do you do when the words won't come?

Every day I'm afraid. There isn't a day I sit at the computer that I'm not afraid there will be nothing that comes out. But without him there wouldn't be anything anyway. I'm not that clever. So, gratefully, if he gives the idea, then he shows up each day with a new one.

8. When you're not writing, what are you doing?

Well, I remarried last year to a wonderful man who has five beautiful children, and I never had children inside my first year marriage. So, I am still learning how to breathe and grocery shop and fix dinner for seven people! Every now and then I get to read a book for pure enjoyment and drink a Coca-Cola!

9. On Pink Sapphire, we rate books in carats. A whole gem parcel being the best. What books a worthy of a whole gem parcel to you?

I love "A Time to Kill" by John Grisham. "Same Kind of Different As Me." Loved that book! And anything by C.S. Lewis.

10. What have you always dreamed of writing about but haven't yet?

So far, everything I've dreamed about I've written I think.

11. Do you have any plans to work on more non-fiction?

Yes, I am working on a new non-fiction project now all about what I learned during my years of Flying Solo and what it means to "reclaim your heart".

12.What are you currently working on? What is next for you?

Well, I am finishing up the final edits of my new fiction book "The First Gardener" that comes out on August 1st!

Thanks Denise, I'm definitely looking forward to your next book!
You can visits Denise Hildreth-Jones' website
Buy the book

Flying Solo

2011-04-11T08:00:00.001-04:00

Flying Solo
By Denise Hildreth Jones

About the book:
For one year following her painful divorce, Denise Hildreth chronicled every emotion, every new discovery and every moment of God’s unyielding presence. Flying Solo, the diary of that roller-coaster year, begins on the day Denise sat in court to hear a judge end her 13-year marriage and follows her through 12 months of soul-searching, heartbreak and healing.

With vivid stories, raw emotion and unwavering honesty, Denise opens a window for divorced or divorcing readers to breathe in the fresh air of God’s Spirit. For, among many surprises in store for Denise during her first year of flying solo, one of the most startling was this: God desires to be with us through our pain. She writes, “Flying solo isn’t about being alone. It is about living a life that may hurt at times, wound at times, betray at times; but there is still an incredible unobstructed view of heaven, and an opportunity to discover God in the middle of it.” Readers struggling to stay afloat in the wake of a marriage’s end will hear from a fellow traveler that they don’t have to settle for treading water . . . they can learn to fly.

My Thoughts:

“Flying Solo” has so much to offer! It is Denise’s journal through the first year after her divorce as she rediscovers what makes her feel alive, learns about who God is, and seeks His will for her new life. There are moments of deep sorrow as well as moments of great joy and laughter. There is also a lot of talk from her counseling sessions and each chapter concludes with questions and exercises relating to the content of the chapter for readers to work through on their own journeys, whatever they may be.

Denise Hildreth-Jones is honest and transparent throughout the entire book making it easy to see God working in her life and healing her heart. All and all I thought this was a great book and one I didn’t want to put down yet at the same time one to really spend time with thinking through the questions and lessons.

Come back Friday for an interview with Denise Hildreth-Jones.

Favorite Line:

“But you can’t move on from your memories until you have new ones in place.”

Rating: a whole gem parcel!

Visit Denise Hildreth Jones' website Buy the book

Life Promises For Success

2011-04-04T00:00:00.002-04:00

Life Promises for Success
By Jim Tressel

About the book:
Everyone wants to succeed—at work, at home, in relationships, and in life. But sometimes the road to success can be difficult, and even the most seasoned leaders can find themselves in need of some motivation.

In Life Promises for Success, NYT bestselling author and Ohio State football coach Jim Tressel shares a collection of inspiring readings and Bible promises designed to encourage those seeking to succeed in every area of life.

Filled with easily applicable Bible verses, motivational quotes, and engaging and inspiring readings, Life Promises for Success is the perfect daily reader for anyone looking to reach their highest goals, achieve greatness, and inspire others to do the same.

My Thoughts:

Everyone wishes to be a success and each person has his/her own definition of what success is. With so many definitions who could ever really know what success is? We can know by understanding God’s view on what success is.

Jim Tressel does a good job in compiling an encouraging devotional filled with promises from God’s word, personal experience and inspiring quotes. This book would be a wonderful resource tool for anyone mentoring others.

Favorite Line:

“Success is a journey that we all take, and it affects every phase of our lives.”

*I received this book free for review from Tyndale House Publishers*

Rating: 4 carats

View Jim Tressel's website Buy the book

Made To Crave

2011-03-28T00:00:00.001-04:00

Made To Crave

By Lysa TerKeurst

About the book:

Has food become more about frustration than fulfillment? The New York Times Best Selling book Made to Crave is the missing link between a woman’s desire to be healthy and the spiritual empowerment necessary to make that happen. Author Lysa TerKeurst personally understands the battle that women face. In Made to Crave, she will help you:

Break the cycle of “I’ll start again on Monday,” and feel good about yourself today.

Stop agonizing over numbers on the scale and make peace with your body.

Replace rationalization that leads to diet failure with wisdom that leads to victory.

Reach your healthy goals and grow closer to God through the process.

This book is not a how-to manual or the latest, greatest dieting plan. Made to Crave is a helpful companion to use alongside whatever healthy eating approach you choose — a book and Bible study to help you find the “want to” in how to make healthy lifestyle changes.

My Thoughts:
Made to crave - oh yes, aren’t we all. The problem is allowing our cravings to rule our desires.

It was refreshing to read Lysa Terkeurst’s straight forward yet gentle guidance on how people allow the God given ability of craving to morph from God’s intention for humanity to crave after Him into cravings which please the physical body. Lysa mentors every reader through personal struggles on the road to personal successes.

The best thing about this book is the principles outlined can take any reader on a journey to turn any personal struggle, whatever that may be, into a God craving.

Favorite Line:

“Our flesh buys right into Satan’s lie that it’s not fair for things to be withheld from us.”

*I received this book free for review from Zondervan Publishers*

Rating: 5 carats

Visit Lysa TerKeurst's website
Buy the book

Chatting with C.J. Darlington

2011-03-25T00:00:00.005-04:00

About C. J. Darlington:

C. J. Darlington won the 2008 Jerry B. Jenkins Christian Writers Guild Operation First Novel contest with her first novel, Thicker Than Blood. She has been in the antiquarian bookselling business for over twelve years, scouting for stores similar to the ones described in her novels before cofounding her own online bookstore. In 2006 C. J. started the Christian entertainment Web site www.TitleTrakk.com with her sister, Tracy, and has been actively promoting Christian fiction through book reviews and author interviews. A homeschool graduate, she makes her home in Pennsylvania with her family and their menagerie of dogs and cats. Visit her website www.cjdarlington.com

1. If Bound By Guilt were a movie, who would you want to play the main characters?

Tonya, you got close to really stumping me on this question! For my main character, Roxi Gold, I would want a young actress who could do justice to her character, but it wouldn't have to be a well-known name. In fact, it might be fun to have an unknown play her. For police officer Abby Dawson I could see Nancy McKeon. Or Maura Tierney. Actually, if I recall correctly, it was her portrayal of another Abby in the TV show ER that inspired me to name a character Abby in my novel. For Jan Mercer all I'd really care about is if she was the right age (early fifties) and could act well.

2. What gave you the idea to write Bound By Guilt?

Several years ago I read a news article about a young man who'd been arrested in California for stealing rare books from various bookstores and re-selling them to other stores for a profit. I asked myself, "What kind of story I can I build around that idea?" For many years I'd also wanted to write about someone who suddenly found themselves with nowhere to go and nothing but the clothes on their back. What would they do? How would they survive? These two ideas propelled the story.

3. What was your favorite and least favorite part of writing Bound By Guilt?

It was difficult, but rewarding, to plot out the ending. I had some head-scratching moments trying to figure out how to get my characters where they needed to be and still remain completely realistic and believable. My favorite moments writing the novel were the rare eureka moments where I know the Lord was prompting me with the answer to a particular scene or character problem I was facing. There was a small twist that's revealed at the end of the novel I did not see coming. Really. It was a complete surprise to me. I love when things like that happen!

4. What do you hope people take away from Bound By Guilt?

I hope they'd be challenged to look past outward appearances and see people, especially teens, the way God sees them. Love them for who they are with no strings attached. Love them even when they make mistakes. Love truly does cover over a multitude of wrongs.

5. On Pink Sapphire, books are rated by gemstone carats, 5 carats being an awesome books, what are some of your 5 carat choices?

Definitely The Rivers Run Dry by Sibella Giorello. She's become one of my favorite authors writing suspense that's character-driven. A lovely combination. All of Sibella's novels are worthy of 5 carats, but The Rivers Run Dry is my favorite. Though her latest novel The Mountains Bow Down comes close. I also highly recommend James David Jordan's novel Forsaken, and Kathy Tyers' Firebird trilogy that's just being re-released by Marcher Lord Press!

6. What are you currently working on? What is next for you?

I am working on my third novel. I've just finished the rough draft and actually need to hit the ground running on my re-write!

Thank you, C.J, Looking forward to your next book! Once again, you can buy the book, visit C.J.'s website , read the 1st chapter of Bound By Guilt, and watch the book trailor

want to win a free book and more?!

2011-03-23T13:02:00.000-04:00

Do you want a chance to win a new book with a few other prizes? Head on over to my blogging friend's blog for details

Bound By Guilt

2011-03-21T00:00:00.008-04:00

Bound By Guilt
By C.J. Darlington

About the book:
Roxi Gold has been shuttled from one foster home to another for most her life. She longs for a family and will do anything to fit in even if it's against the law. Soon she's traveling the country in an RV, stealing rare books from unsuspecting bookstores. She knows it's wrong, but if she refuses, she'll be put out on the streets.

Police officer Abby Dawson has seen the worst of society, and not just at work. Her ex-husband wrested her daughter away from her in a bitter custody battle. The job she once loved has become a chore, the world isn't any safer, and there's no joy in her life.

One fateful night a man's innocent blood changes both Roxi's and Abby's lives forever. One searches for justice; the other finds herself on the run until a first edition of The Great Gatsby catches up with her. Will the power of forgiveness set them free, or will they both remain bound by guilt?

My Thoughts:

Bound By Guilt isn’t typically a book I would read but it was good. The depth of all the characters was great. I really enjoyed how easy it was to tell whose life was whose as each scene began even though scenes alternated characters. Every scene and character had a purpose which ultimately came together at the end. What amazed me the most was how much I felt for the main character, Roxi. Roxi was hurting and made some mistakes. Roxi was broken and it made me happy to see wise, loving people come to her aid.

Bound by Guilt is C.J. Darlington’s second book and I have a feeling there are many great ones to come!

Stay tuned for an interview with CJ later in the week.

Favorite Line:

“For one moment Roxi let herself enjoy the store’s ambiance. The potbellied stove in the corner, the rainbow of book spines crowding every shelf, the ticking of the antique clock she now saw sitting above the front door. If things were different, if she were different, every book in a store like this could be a potential treasure. As it was, everyone was a target.”

* I received this book free for review from Tyndale House Publishers*

Rating: 5 carats

Visit C.J. Darlington's website

Buy the book

The Perfect Blend

2011-03-14T00:00:00.012-04:00

The Perfect Blend
By Trish Perry

About the book:

Steph Vandergrift left everything to elope with Middleburg attorney Rick Manfred, who then stood her up at the altar. Too embarrassed to return home, Steph hopes to earn enough to get by until she can decide what to do next. Tea Shop owner Milly Jewel hires her and appreciates the extra help at the tea shop.

Also appreciative of Steph is Kendall James, one of the kindest, most eligible bachelors in the area. But by the time Steph feels able to consider dating again, her run-away fiance returns and tries to win her back. Steph is wary, but she and Rick always blended so well.

Christie Burnham, the frank-talking equestrian from whom Steph rents a room, and her frillier sister Liz become fast friends and confidantes to Steph. Between the two sisters, there isn't much any man is going to pull over on Middleburg's newest bachelorette and tea shop employee.

My thoughts:

“The Perfect Blend” is truly a perfect blend of sweetness, laughter, and kind people reaching out to a woman who thought she was eloping but instead was left at the altar and was too embarrassed to go home.

All of the characters of the book were genuine. The book setting seemed to come so much to life one could almost smell the baked goods and coffee.

Favorite Line:

“ But she also knew, like a vapor in the midst of her dread, that everything would work out alright.”

*I received this book free for review from Harvest House Publishers *

Rating: 4 carats

Visit Trish Perry's website
Buy the book

The Brotherhood

2011-03-07T00:00:00.008-05:00

The Brotherhood
By Jerry Jenkins

About the book:
Boone Drake follows all the rules - as a cop, husband and father. But when everything in his personal life is destroyed, he buries himself in guilt. His faith is rocked when he questions why God would allow this to happen to him. When it appears that it can't get any worse, he's accused of police brutality and suddenly his career is at risk. The possibility of being promoted to the Organized Crime Division is slipping from his hands. His life is spiraling out of control. But while protecting the leader of a Chicago gang, Boone comes to realize that God can change the hardest heart...and forgive the worst of crimes.

My thoughts:

The Brotherhood is a gritty police thriller that ultimately asks "Why does God allow tragedy?"

Jerry Jenkins does not shy away from questions stemming from a man having a crisis of faith and searching for the meaning of his life all in the context of a fast paced story.

I listened to the audio version of this book and the narrator seemed strong and perfect for this story, very cop-like.

Rating: 4 carats

*I received this audio book free for review from christianaudio.com*

Rating : 4 carats

Visit Jerry Jenkin's website
Buy the audiobook

Sisterchicks in Wooden Shoes

2011-02-28T00:00:00.005-05:00

Sisterchicks in Wooden Shoes

By Robin Jones Gunn

About the book:
A multi-tasking mama, Summer has found ways to handle whatever life throws at her with grace and a grin...until now. An abnormal medical test result sends her into a tailspin and prompts her to fulfill a life-long dream of "meeting" her best friend and pen pal since fourth grade for the first time. During their blissful week together in the Netherlands, Summer and Noelle float down a canal in Amsterdam, visit Corrie Ten Boom's Hiding Place, sip decadent Dutch cocoa in Delft, and bob merrily along through a sea of brilliant, spring-fresh tulips. The two friends find they both needed to be together more than either of them realized. Could it be this adventure was tucked away in God's imagination long before Summer bought her ticket to fly to the land of merry tulips and kalomping wooden shoes?

My Thoughts:

Noelle and Summer have a strong and beautiful friendship though they live on different continents. Summer steps across the pond to visit her lifelong pen pal while trying to escape some possibly devastating news. Their friendship grows as they tour the countryside and discover things about themselves they never knew.

Robin weaves in nuances of authentic Dutch culture making a fun and educational read!

Robin Gun has such a warm writing style with these sweet stories. This is an all round warm book!

Favorite Line:

“Go make your own adventures, and come home often to tell us about them.” He smiled. “I’d say it’s time for you to do the same. Go make your own adventure, honey. When you come home, I’ll want to hear about it.”

*I received this book free for review from Waterbrook- Multnomah Press*
Favorite Line:

Rating: 4 carats

Visit Robin Jones Gunn's website Buy the book

The Shelter of God's Promises

2011-02-21T00:00:00.018-05:00

The Shelter of God's Promises
By Sheila Walsh

About the Book:
In a world of uncertainty, pain, and struggle, where do you find solid assurance and unshakeable truth? Gifted Bible teacher and inspiring Women of Faith speaker Sheila Walsh offers powerful, heart-filled teaching on ten bedrock promises of God, providing the foundation for daily confidence, joy, and hope. In The Shelter of God's Promises, Sheila searches Scripture for what God has promised us, what God's promises mean, and how encounters with Christ are the eternal fulfillment of His unrelenting commitment to us. In this riveting walk through some of the Bible's most compelling stories, Walsh unveils ten foundational promises of God that secure our lives during even the most difficult times. Sheila weaves her hallmark storytelling, inspiring personal experience, and Scripture to help readers gain a trust in God that will sustain them for a lifetime.

My Thoughts:

I was pleasntly surprised by this book. The back cover synopisis sounded good but before I even finished the first chapter I was excited to hear the stories that lay ahead.

Sheila Walsh takes us on a journey of exploring specifics promieses of God and illustrates ways He has used them with indepth despriptions of Bible stories.

She divides the book into nine promises. As she covers each promise you will not be disappointed. You have most likely heard these promises before but she helps you to see them promises in new light. This is a great Bible study.

I listened to the audio version of this book. The narrator is a Scottish woman who talks in a soothing tone and takes great pauses at moments when we need to digest what she just said, which is really nice with all of the profound quotes and thought provoking things said.

*I received this audiobook free for review from Christianaudio.com
Favorite Line:
"when the pain of staying the same in greater than the pain of change, than you will change"

Rating: 5 carats

Visit Sheila Walsh's website
Buy the Audiobook

Happy Valentines Day

2011-02-14T00:00:00.003-05:00

A Billion Reasons Why

2011-02-11T00:00:00.003-05:00

A Billion Reasons Why
By Kristin Billerbeck

About the book:
Katie McKenna leads a perfect life. Or so she thinks. She has a fulfilling job, a cute apartment, and a wedding to plan with her soon-to-be fiance, Dexter.

She can think of a billion reasons why she should marry Dexter…but nowhere on that list is love.

And then in walks Luc DeForges, her bold, breathtaking ex-boyfriend. Only now he's a millionaire. And he wants her to go home to New Orleans to sing for her childhood friend's wedding. As his date.

But Katie made up her mind about Luc eight years ago, when she fled their hometown after a very public breakup. Yet there's a magnetism between them she can't deny.

Katie thought her predictable relationship with Dexter would be the bedrock of a lasting, Christian marriage. But what if there's more? What if God's desire for her is a heart full of life? And what if that's what Luc has offered all along?

My Review:
I was captivated by this book and every time I closed it I had a smile on my face. The characters are well developed and multi-faceted, just when you think you have one of them pegged they surprise you! Luc seems a little arrogant but really I think he just goes after what he wants and Katie struggles to stifle her passion to be proper but blossoms as she went along.

The entire book asks ‘do you follow your heart or follow your mind’. Only you can decide if Katie made the right decision but I loved reading the book with all the way it drew in every sense as Kristin Billerbeck described New Orleans, Katie’s inner thoughts, and the throw back to the forties.

Favorite Line:

“God didn’t paint you with a brushstroke of safety, Katie. He brought out the fiery colors for you.”

*I received this book free for review from Thomas Nelson Publishers*
Rating: 5 carats

Visit Kristin's website
Buy the book

Found: God's Will

2011-02-07T00:00:00.001-05:00

Found: God's Will
By John MacArthur
About the book:
GET READY FOR A SURPRISE!

You may want to jump and shout when you read the sixth principle for knowing when you have found God's will.

The sixth principle is "Do whatever you want" as long as the first five principles are operating in your life.

Read about all six principles to better understand what the psalmist means when he urges, "Delight thyself also in the Lord; and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart" (Psalm 37:4).

My Review:
This is small but powerful little book. John MacArthur outlines six steps listed in scripture to help the reader find God’s will for his/her life. MacArthur does just that as every step is based in scripture, clear, and easily understood. I think any Christian would benefit from studying this book.

I listened to the audio version of the book which was not read by John Macarthur. The narrator for the book did well; he was pleasant to listen to and flowed right along with the narration.

Favorite Quote:

“The only way to saturate yourself with Christ is to saturate yourself with the book that is all about Him”

*I received this audio book free for review from christianaudio.com*
Rating: 5 carats

Visit John MacArthur's website
Buy the audiobook

Stars Collide

2011-01-31T00:00:00.009-05:00

Stars Collide
By Janice Thompson

About the book:
In Stars Collide, Kat Jennings and Scott Murphy don't just play two people who are secretly in love on a television sitcom—they are also head over heels for each other in real life. When the lines between reality and TV land blur, they hope they can keep their relationship under wraps.

But when Kat's grandmother, an aging Hollywood starlet with a penchant for wearing elaborate evening gowns from Golden Age movies, mistakes their on-screen wedding proposal for the real deal, things begin to spiral out of their control. Will their secret be front-page news in the tabloids tomorrow? And can their budding romance survive the onslaught of paparazzi, wedding preparations, and misinformed in-laws?

From the sound stage to a Beverly Hills mansion to the gleaming Pacific Ocean, Stars Collide takes readers on a roller-coaster tour of Tinseltown, packing both comedic punch and tender emotion.

My Review:
This fun little book is presented on the set of a TV show and revolves around the real lives of the characters in the show.

I enjoyed the chapters being named after TV shows and the many references made to TV and movies. Throughout the book Kat's grandma would play a different character each day and Kat would ask "Who are we today Grandma?"

Stars Collide is filled with witty and quirky characters as well as a solid message. I’ll definitely tune in for the next book in the series

Favorite Line:

“It’s crazy how nearly every area of my life has changed in such a short amount of time,” I said. “When God moves…he moves fast.” “Tell me about it. Sometimes he blows in like a storm. Other times he waits offshore and you wonder if he’s ever going to show up.”

*Available January 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group*

Rating: 5 carats

Visit Janice's wesbite
Buy the book

Power Thoughts

2011-01-24T00:00:00.001-05:00

Power Thoughts
By Joyce Meyer
About the book:
Are you bombarded with unhealthy, unfocused thoughts? Do you have trouble trying to get something out of your mind? You may be stuck in a mental rut. It’s time to get out!

My Review:
Power Thoughts is the follow up to Joyce Meyer's best seller Battlefield of the Mind. Joyce describes this book as the "next step" in winning the battlefield of the mind. She has divided the book into two parts. In the first part Joyce discusses why it is important to take our thoughts captive and learn, a basic overview of her first book. The second half is the 12 power thoughts we can use to build a strong foundation to think positively and to win the battlefield of the mind.

I really liked this book. It is something, when applied, could be very beneficial to most anyone. Joyce is straightforward and practical in the steps needed to take to become positive people. All of Joyce’s power thoughts are biblical and based in scripture. This book is a great resource and Bible study tool for any Christian.

I reviewed the audio version of this book and once again it was the same reader as all of Joyce's previous books. I wish she had a better narrator because she really sounds like she is over enunciating everything she says which makes it hard to listen too. The book would be more engaging with a better narrator but the message in the book is good enough to overlook its reader.

Favorite Quote:

"If you want to be encouraged than be encouraging."

*I recevied this book free for review from Hachette Audio Group*

Rating: 5 carats

Visit Joyce's website
Buy the audiobook

Outlive Your Life

2011-01-17T00:00:00.003-05:00

Outlive Your Life
By Max Lucado

About the book:

These are difficult days in our world’s history. Billions of people are poor, millions go hungry or thirsty every day. Disease claims thousands of lives daily. But you and I have been given an opportunity to make a big difference. What if we did? What if we rocked the world with hope? Infiltrated all corners with God’s love and life? We are created by a great God to do great works. He invites us to outlive our lives, not just in heaven, but here on earth. Let's live our lives in such a way that the world will be glad we did.

My Review:

Max Lucado’s latest book encourages us to send ripples not only through your life and those around you as well as to others far after you are gone. He draws from stories throughout scripture and poses questions of what we can do to influence others and be a missionary wherever we are.

Max Lucado is very down to earth in his writing approach and easy to understand. Every chapter ends with a prayer based on the focus of that chapter. I listened to the audio version of this book and found the narrator to had a strong, almost pastoral voice that really gets the point across. It wasn’t a relaxing or leisurely audio book to listen to. I have heard Max Lucado’s devotionals on the radio and I would have liked it better if he narrated the book himself.

*I received this book free for review from Christianaudio.com*

Rating: 5 carats

Visit Max's website
Buy the audiobook

From Head to Foot

2011-01-10T00:00:00.005-05:00

From Head to Foot
By Annie Downs

About the book:
From Head to Foot is a candid, easy-to-read guide that uses real-life examples and faith-based instruction to equip Christian girls with the confidence, faith and moxie they’ll need to face their teen and college years.

My review:
From Head to Foot is a devotional style, introspective little book that’ll leave you pondering how you can serve God better.

Annie’s transparent honesty is refreshing, incredible, and takes so much courage you know she has learned the lessons she is teaching. In the beginning of the book Annie mentions that she wants to be your friend and it only takes a few pages before you feel like she is exactly that.

So many places you hear about the need to love yourself for who God has made you yet not many give tangible steps. Annie lists the steps she took to learn to love herself as God made her and serve Him to the best of her ability. From Head to Foot is a little guidebook to loving yourself and exploring ways to serve the Lord with what He has given you.

Favorite line:

“If you’ve protected your heart and allowed God to fill it with His plans and love, then you can trust your desires.”

Rating: a whole gem parcel!!

Visit Annie's website
Buy the book

Coming Back Stronger

2011-01-03T00:00:00.003-05:00

Coming Back Stronger
By Drew Brees with Chris Fabry

About the book:

When a potentially career-ending shoulder injury left quarterback Drew Brees without a team—and facing the daunting task of having to learn to throw a football all over again—coaches around the NFL wondered, Will he ever come back? After Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans, leaving more than 80 p

ercent of the city underwater, many wondered, Will the city ever come back? And with their stadium transformed into a makeshift refugee camp, forcing the Saints to play their entire 2005 season on the road, people questioned, Will the Saints ever come back? It takes a special person to turn adversity into success and despair into hope—yet that is exactly what Super Bowl MVP Drew Brees has done—and with the weight of an entire city on his shoulders. Coming Back Stronger is the ultimate comeback story, not only of one of the NFL’s top quarterbacks, but also of a city and a team that many had all but given up on. Brees’s inspiring message of hope and encouragement proves that with enough faith, determination, and heart, you can overcome any obstacle life throws your way and not only come back, but come back stronger.

My Review:
This book was really inspiring and uplifting. It begins with his career with the San Diego Chargers and really takes off when Drew injures his shoulder and begins to put his faith into practice as Dr’s tell him he may never play again. He is very open about his prayer life and how He turned to his faith in the Lord to overcome his injury and how he set goals to as the title says, come back stronger.

As Drew recounts his journey you can’t help but be encouraged. Anyone who is interested in sports or a good comeback story won’t be able to put this book down!

I received this book free for review from Tyndale House publihsers

Rating: 5 carats

Lucado Life Lessons Study Bible

2010-12-27T00:00:00.013-05:00

Lucado Life Lessons Study Bible

This Bible is a compilation of Max Lucado’s Life Lessons Devotional books and the Bible. It is a really nice gift. For a study Bible it’s not too big, bulky, or heavy, has a nice burgundy cover and is very sturdy.

There is a two color design making it easy to sort through Bible passages and devotionals and I love seeing the life lessons interspersed throughout in the margins. In the back of the Bible there is a section showing different “reading the Bible in” plans for you to choose from whether it be 90 days, one year, or two years. This is great Bible for anyone wanting to delve deeper into study as well as any Max Lucado fan.

Favorite Verse:

Jeremiah 29: 11-13

“11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”

I received this book free for review from Thomas Nelson Publishers

Rating: 5 carats

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God Called a Girl

2010-12-20T00:00:00.010-05:00

God Called a Girl

By Shannon Primicerio

God Called a Girl draws on the life of Mary, a simple, insignificant teenager who God called to change the world. As we learn about Mary we begin to see how God chooses the unlikely to fulfill His plan and we are asked “are you willing to answer the call?”

This book was awesome. I learned so much about Mary and really started to think about her and look at her in a different light but the book isn’t as much about Mary as it is about God and what He can do with someone willing to submit their life to Him no matter what the circumstances. As easy as it would be to say that the story of Mary and Jesus’ birth is ancient an irrelevant to today’s culture Shannon adds stories from her life and those around her to show how we can learn from the courage of this teenage girl who risked it all to follow God. Ultimately this book is challenge to say “yes” to God and how following Him can change your world.

I’ve read this book a few times and am amazed every time. There is so much to think about and learn from.

Favorite Quote:

“It’s been said that who we are in our current surroundings is who we will be in our desired surrounding.”

Rating: a whole gem parcel!!

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Hatteras Girl

2010-12-13T00:00:00.011-05:00

Hatteras Girl
By Alice Wisler
Jackie Donavon has consistently asked God for two things; a husband and a bed-and-breakfast in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. As Jackie goes about her life striving for her dreams she comes across the Bailey Place, an old house with an outrageous price tag, in need of some fixing up, owned by the handsome and single Davis Erickson. Everything Jackie’s always wanted is falling into place, although Davis has a secret. Will Jackie ignore his past to go after her dreams?

The idea for the story was good but this book is so slow moving and drawn out that it wasn’t fun to read at all. The author described everything that happened and every movement each character took. It was like just get to the next scene already. I really wanted to like this book because it was set in the Outer Banks of North Carolina and I have been there many times. I just couldn’t get into it. If the author was going to write such a descriptive book it would’ve been much better if she talked about the beauty of the islands or the inner dialogue of the characters and not what they were reading on the menu of a restaurant.

Favorite Quote:

“The art of being wise is knowing what to overlook”

I received this book free for review from Bethany House Publishers
Rating: 3 carats

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Double Shot

2010-11-29T00:00:00.003-05:00

Double Shot
By Erynn Magum

In the final installment of the Maya Davis series by Erynn Mangum ( read about Cool Beans and Latte Daze), Maya seems to have it all. She’s engaged to her long time best friend and now sweetheart, Jack, and everything should be just peachy, right? Wrong! Maya can’t shake her doubts and questions. What if this happens? What if that happens? When Jack is offered a once-in-a-lifetime job in Seattle Maya begins to panic even more about the future.

Sad as I was for the series to end, I think it’s the best book in the series. We really see Maya questioning what she is doing, where is going, and learning to rely on God even when things don’t go as she had hoped.

Erynn really has a knack for funny one-liners and relating the Bible to real life through her characters weekly church Bible study. I can’t wait for her next series.

Favorite Quote:

“But then again God is God. And He does have a way of changing my plans. After all, I am marrying Jack Dominguez instead of Justin Timberlake. Seventh grade was interesting.”

I received this book free for review from NavPress Publishers

Rating: 5 carats

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On A Whim

2010-11-22T00:00:00.010-05:00

On A Whim
By Robin Jones Gunn

On a Whim is the second book in Robin Jones Gunn's Katie Weldon Series(read about book one, Peculiar Treasures). The book starts in Katie's senior year of college when she thinks she has things figured out with Rick Doyle. Rick's work schedule makes things a challenge and Katie ends up spending time with Rick’s new roommate Eli. After star gazing in the desert with Eli, Katie begins to wonder about everything she had planned out for her life.

Reading about Katie is like spending time with a friend. Katie is sweet, relatable, and just as confused as the next person. Robin has a heartwarming way of weaving the lives of her characters into the hearts of her readers, leaving an imprint there. The Katie Weldon series displays the depth of the friendship between Katie and Christy as their lives go in two different directions. I get so excited to see anything new from Robin. I'll be a lifelong reader.

Favorite Quote:

"If there's one thing I've learned it's that good friends are like gold."

Rating: 5 carats

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Safe Haven

2010-11-15T00:00:00.001-05:00

Safe Haven
By Nicholas Sparks

In Safe Haven the main character, Katie Feldman, moves to a small, sleepy town on the east coast determined to make it her refuge. Katie rents a small cabin and begins to work at a local restaurant. As the days go by Katie meets a kindhearted widower, Alex, with two kids and an empathetic neighbor, Jo. She slowly lets her guard down and begins to feel part of the community. Can Katie really keep her past behind her? And will her secret put those she’s drawing close to in danger as well?

This book starts out like it is going to be a sweet southern love story and I really liked it. Halfway through the point of view shifts to that of Katie’s husband, Kevin, and we are drawn into his obsessive, controlling world as he stalks around trying to find where Katie has fled to. I stopped liking the book at this point. It turns into a thriller and just isn’t my style. However anyone who likes sitting on the edge of their seat would probably really like this book. Nicholas Sparks is an amazing writer and will definitely read another one of his books.

Favorite Line:

"That he would love her no matter what she told him, and that he was the kind of man who loved her already and would love her forever."

I received this book free for review from Hachette Audio

Rating: 3 carats

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She's Gone Country

2010-11-08T00:00:00.001-05:00

She's Gone Country

By Jane Porter

After a painful divorce, Shey Lynn packs and moves to Texas from New York City to be with her family and regroup. She is left with three boys who do not want to be in Texas and her own doubt of whether she'll ever find happiness again. Conflict after conflict arises when Shey can't get along with her mother, doesn't feel comforted by her brothers, and her sons act out trying to get her to send then back to NYC. If that isn't enough she runs into Dane, her high school crush and begins to wonder what would happen if she had ended up with him.

The whole book seemed like Shey was just wandering aimlessly and even though there is a resolution in the end, it doesn't seem like Shey grew as a person or learned anything from her experiences. Shey is obviously hurt and struggling for answers but the books as a whole didn’t go anywhere or accomplish anything.

Favorite Line:

"Remembering hurts"

I received this book free for review from Hachette Book Group

Rating: 3 carats

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Don't Kiss Him Goodbye

2010-10-25T00:00:00.005-04:00

Don't Kiss Him Goodbyre
By Sandra Byrd

Don't Kiss Him Goodbye is the third installment of Sandra Byrd's London Confidential series(read the first two Asking For Trouble and Through Thick and Thin). Savvy Smith has been living near London, England for almost a year now beginning to settle in and feel like she is making friends. As spring arrives she learns of the annual May Day Ball and longs to be asked. Savvy makes a list of all her potential dates only to see they already have asked someone. All except for one that is, the mysterious and good-looking Rhys who seems interested in her but who also has a reputation for trouble. What will Savvy do? Follow her heart? Or follow what she knows to be true?

Each Savvy Smith book draws me in more and more. I have really begun to not only like Savvy but to care about and root for her to make the right decisions, intrigued how she is so easily torn between two worlds.

This is a light and fun read written so descriptively you’ll keep turning the pages.

Favorite Line:

"We locked eyes for a moment and felt the bond of the sisterhood between two Christians who has hopes and dreams that seemed to have stalled over the Bermuda Triangle."

I received this book free for review from Tyndale House Publishers
Rating: 5 carats

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Through Thick and Thin

2010-10-18T00:00:00.005-04:00

Through Thick and Thin
By Sandra Byrd

Through Thick and Thin is the second book in Sandra Byrd's London Confidential series,(read the review of Asking For Trouble) Savannah Smith is starting to settle into her new life near London, England and soon sees the opportunity she has been waiting for - a chance to write a column for the school newspaper. Savvy carefully plots out her plan of action and is determined to execute it but when things start to unravel she is forced to choose between her family and friends or her dream job.

I really liked digging deeper into Savvy's life. Her biggest struggle was wanting to liked with real friends however it seems as though having people like her comes at a price which causes Savvy to dislike herself and hurt some people she cares deeply for.

Sandra Byrd did a great job of showing Savvy's challenges of going after her dreams and staying true to who she is while throwing in dashes of British culture and fashion.

Favorite Line:

"Chic through thick and thin."

Rating: 5 carats

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The Shape of Mercy

2010-10-11T00:00:00.005-04:00

The Shape of Mercy

By Susan Meissner
Having grown up in a wealthy family, Lauren decides to defy the tradition of relying on family money and step out on her own. She attends a public college and has to fend for herself. Always interested in literature, Lauren sees an ad for a transcription job and immediately applies. Lauren gets the job. Her first assignment is to transcribe the diary of a teenage girl, Mercy Hayworth, set during the Salem witch trials, and is soon drawn into a tale she knows will end in heartbreak. As Lauren digs deeper into the diary she begins to see herself and her life in a new light.

Just as Lauren was drawn into Mercy's story I was drawn into this book. Lauren gripped me with her love for the written word and her determination to make a life for herself. I loved following both Lauren and Mercy as they asked themselves the same question about life and where they were going while living in two different eras, experiencing different situations. It proves that no matter how different we seem on the outside we are still similar on the inside.

I listened to the audio version of this book and the narrator had a gentle, almost haunting voice which seemed perfect for the scenes of the witch trial.

I received this book free for review from Christianaudio.com

Favorite Line:

"We understand what we want to understand. That's the way it is, the way it will always be."

Rating: 5 carats

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The Gingerbread Season

2010-10-04T00:00:00.004-04:00

The Gingerbread Season
By Betsy St Amant

About the book:
Allie James returns to her hometown in need of a holiday job. Never did she expect old boyfriend Jordan Walker to hire her as his secretary! Years ago Jordan shredded her heart like wrapping paper. Now he must convince Allie that all he wants for Christmas is her love.

About the author:

Betsy St. Amant lives in Louisiana and is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers group. Betsy is multi-published through Steeple Hill and has been published in Christian Communicator magazine and Praise Reports: Inspiring Real Life Stories of How God Answers Prayer. One of her short stories, ‘Kickboxing or Chocolate’, appears in a Tyndale compilation book, and she is also multi-published through The Wild Rose Press. Betsy has a BA in Christian Communications and regularly contributes articles to Crosswalk.com. She is a wife, author, new mother and an avid reader who enjoys sharing the wonders of God’s grace through her stories.

My Review:
The Gingerbread Season is the second story in the Christmas novel, Mistletoe Prayers. Allie James feels like all she has worked for is gone. The business she went against her parents’ wishes to start has crumbled and she has found herself single, unemployed, and moving back in with her parents - not what Allie had always dreamed. Thinking this is only temporary Allie takes a holiday job only to find out her boss, Jordan Walker, is the ex-boyfriend who broke her heart 10 years ago.

The story switches between the perspectives of both Jordan and Allie. I really liked the point of view changes because it was easy to see how both were feeling despite the front they each put forward. The main characters were very well developed and I could easily sense the awkwardness each felt inside.

Betsy St Amant crafted Allie to be in touch with her feelings while trying very hard to push them down. A reader can really sense the struggle brewing inside of Allie as well as her love for the Christmas season and her determination not to let her current disappointments ruin her favorite holiday. I loved how there were so many fun traditions in the little town and how much the people in the story care about the town.

Favorite Line:

"Every gift comes with struggles."

Rating: 5 carats

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A Place of Healing

2010-09-27T00:00:00.002-04:00

A Place of Healing
By Joni Eareckson Tada

As many of Joni’s books have dealt with suffering so does this one. Written with the same eloquence and compassion we’ve come to know Joni for she poses the question, “If God can heal, why doesn’t He?”

Joni invites us to walk with her as she asks this question trying to understand her new battle of chronic pain. After nearly forty years of quadriplegia she is asking once again how God can use her while is so much pain. She is open, encouraging, and gives the honest answer to the question of God’s healing. It is His choice of who and when to heal according to His will.

She then goes on to explain the process and verses she has used in her journey to accept her new situation. Her advice may not be the easiest to swallow but I believe that with hard work, determination, and the right mindset this book can aid in making sense of suffering.

Favorite Line:

“Authentic strength walks hand in hand with weakness”

Rating: a whole gem parcel

A Time to Dance

2010-09-20T00:00:00.008-04:00

A Time to Dance

By Karen Kingsbury

Everyone thinks John and Abby Reynolds are the perfect couple but secretly they are about to lose it all. After growing apart over the years and John nearly having an affair, they have decided to divorce. As John and Abby sit their family down to make the announcement their oldest daughter, Nicole, announces she’s engaged and wants to get married on her parent’s anniversary. In the moment John and Abby decide to keep their divorce quiet until after the wedding. Can they still find joy as the wedding approaches?

As the wedding does approach John and Abby are each filled with turmoil, flashing back to when things were good between them along with the struggles they have overcome during their marriage. Every scene, whether present day or flashback, pulls the reader in and offers the ability to feel both John’s and Abby’s pain as they question if they are making the right decision.

Throughout the book there are many whispers from God into their situations and it’s really interesting to see when and how both of them respond. Sometimes they follow the Lord’s leading and sometimes they don’t, just like any normal person.

The biggest down fall to the book is if the reader isn’t completely paying attention or is too caught up in the story, the reader may not realize when the perspectives have switched and may be left a little confused.

I received this book free for review from Thomas Nelson publsihers.

Favorite Line:

“The music never changes but it’s up to us to keep dancing.”

Rating: 5 carats

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The Island

2010-09-13T00:00:00.010-04:00

The Island
By Elin Hilderbrand

The Island is a story of four women taking a month long vacation on the island of Tuckernuck, Massachusetts, a remote island off the coast of Nantucket. All four bring their own heartbreak and try to sort through their problems together.

The story alternates between all four perspectives so you have the opportunity to get to know each character and why they wanted to escape to the island. This is supposed to be chick-lit but it didn’t seem very upbeat like chick lit traditionally is. Laced with pain the story was a bit depressing and listening to the audio version the narrators voice was dry, easy to lose track, and hard to follow.

Favorite Line:

“Plans for the vacation changed, and then changed again.”

I received this book free for review from Hachette Audio Group

Rating: 3 carats

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Latte Daze

2010-09-06T00:00:00.012-04:00

Latte Daze
By Erynn Mangum

Latte Daze is the second book in Erynn Mangum’s Maya Davis series. Maya Davis’ life is going just fine. She’s working at her favorite coffee shop, Cool Beans, alongside her boyfriend, Jack, living with her best friend, Jen, hanging out with her pilates loving dog, Calvin, and building a better relationship with her brother and his wife. Everything is just as Maya likes, calm and predictable, until Jen gets engaged, Maya’s sister-in-law announces she’s pregnant and Jack says “I love you” but does she love him?

This is a great follow up to Cool Beans. As light and fun-loving as this book is, Maya’s struggle to trust God in the midst of change is a great reminder to us as the reader to keep the faith. Maya knows in her head God is in control but does she feel it in her heart? Erynn does an awesome job of applying scripture to the character’s situations and sharing how God can speak in the right place at the right time.

Favorite Quote:

“Reasons It’s Okay to Like Change:

1. God is in control.

2. God is in control.

3. God is in control.

4. Without change, we would not have any ice-cream flavors except vanilla.”

I recieved this book free for review from NavPress publishers

Rating: 5 carats

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We interupt this regularly scheduled book review...

2010-08-30T00:00:00.002-04:00

A few weeks ago after I posted my review on His Princess Girl Talk with God, Christiana from Life of a Minister’s Wife left a comment about a similar series from her blog. Christiana asked if I would review her series and I am excited to so! Without further ado:

On a recent missions trip Christiana taught a Bible study to youth group girls of viewing themselves as daughters of the King. In this four part series on her blog, Christiana chronicles what she taught the girls, their reactions to her questions, and how to better see ourselves as the princesses we are.

The series has four parts:

1. Evaluation - evaluating how we see ourselves

2. Comparison - comparing how we see ourselves to how see princesses

3. Identification - Identifying who God is and who God says we are

4. Application - Applying who God says we are to how we see ourselves

I enjoyed this four part series and although it is aimed at younger girls, I think woman of any age can relate to all four parts. It is extremely easy to see only the negative and, as Christiana points out, compare ourselves to others regardless if the comparison is to a fairy princess or someone we see at the store.

Once we have established how we see and compare ourselves, Christiana does a great job in part three of showing us who God is. There are many Biblical references to back up her points.

Part 4 is my favorite because it offers practical ways to apply the earlier lessons to our lives. Christiana draws in the movie The Princess Diaries and writes out “God’s Princess Lessons” just as Mia’s grandmother gave Mia princess lessons to shape her into the princess she was born to be! Notice how Mia never thought of herself as a princess but that’s exactly what she was!

Favorite Line:

In part one; we learned that in general most women are critical and negative about themselves. In part two, we learned that we are willing to accept princesses for who they should be and are not critical about them—generally speaking. Next we are going to look at who God is and who we are in relation to Him.

Rating: 5 carats

Cool Beans

2010-08-23T00:00:00.003-04:00

Cool Beans
By Erynn Mangum
Erynn Mangum is back with her quirky sense of humor and the pursuit of the perfect cup of coffee. In this book 24 year old barista, Maya Davis, is happily living life until her best friend and roommate starts dating her ex-boyfriend. The ex-boyfriend doesn’t recognize Maya and Maya can’t bring herself to tell her best friend of the past relationship. Chaos soon consumes Maya’s thoughts and she begins to question what she knows of who God is and what He is doing in her life.

Cool Beans has a lot of similarities to Erynn’s first series, The Lauren Holbrook Series. The main characters from these books, Maya and Lauren, have very similar personalities and habits yet they are both so loveable and identifiable any similarities in the books didn’t really matter. As in the Lauren Holbrook Series, this book is peppered with chocolate, coffee, tons of movie references, and the Style Network. Even with all this fun stuff, Cool Beans is anything but shallow. Erynn does a wonderful job displaying the daily struggles of pursuing a strong, personal relationship with the Lord without preaching all the while teaching the importance of a consistent quiet time.

Cool Beans is a quick fun read causing the reader to think about the consequences of not telling the truth and keeping strong in your faith. I think Erynn Mangum is well on her way to creating a Christian chick-lit genre all her own!

Favorite Line:

“It’s the whole Mary and Martha thing. If you’re focused on what you need to get done that day or on something that is bothering you, you’re not going to get anything out of your Bible reading. But if you focus on the words in front of you and pray for the ability to see beyond the page into how the words can make a difference in your life, you’ll get a whole lot more out of it.”

Rating: 5 carats

Check out Erynn's blog with pictures of her adorable baby boy!
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Jesus, the only way to God

2010-08-16T00:00:00.002-04:00

Jesus, the only way to God
By John Piper
About the book:
If the evangelical church at large was ever too confrontational in its evangelism, those days are gone. In our shrinking, pluralistic world, the belief that Jesus is the only way of salvation is increasingly called arrogant and even hateful. In the face of this criticism, many shrink back from affirming the global necessity of knowing and believing in Jesus. In Jesus, the Only Way to God, John Piper offers a timely plea for the evangelical church to consider what is at stake in surrendering the unique, universal place of Jesus in salvation.

My Review:

In this book John Piper sets out to answer one question, "Is Jesus the only way to God?" The answer is simply yes. John Piper breaks this book down into three questions people commonly ask when wondering if Jesus is the only way to heaven. He continually turns readers to the Bible in order to prove why Jesus is the only way.

John Piper’s writings are very deep and profound. This book is not for the faint of heart and not something to pick and read through fast. John Piper is an author requiring the reader to read through and through his writings until the reader understands what he is saying.

I listened to the audio version of this book and while the message is a good one, the narrator was awfully boring and dry to listen too.

Favorite Line:

"God opens the eyes of the blind when his spokesmen portray Jesus Christ. This is the work of the Holy Spirit in the world to glorify Jesus."

I recieved this book free for review from Christianaudio.com

Rating: 4 carats

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His Princess Girl Talk with God

2010-08-09T00:00:00.011-04:00

His Princess Girl Talk with God
By Sheri Rose Shepherd

About the Book:
Like a loving father, God holds you in the palm of His hand. He loves you no matter what you wear, what you say, what you've done, or how you feel. And He wants you to live a wonderful life.

In His Princess Girl Talk with God, Sheri Rose Shepherd helps you experience God's unending love for you through forty devotions. Sheri remembers what it was like to be a teen girl, and she connects your experiences with God's love. Through these stories, love letters from God, Scriptures, and prayers, you'll feel just how much God treasures you--His Princess.

My Review:

His Princess Girl Talk with God

This is a 40 day devotional aimed at teenage-aged girls to help them see themselves as God sees them. Each devotional is two pages long starting with a Bible verse followed with a short story from Sheri Rose Shepherd’s life as a teenager and how she learned to see her worth in God. On the next page there is a short letter from “Your Father in Heaven” about how He created you and sees you as beautiful and a perfect part of His plan.

I really liked this book. I think this book is very relevant and speaks to more than just teenage girls. The message that we are daughters of the King and treasures to Him is something we all could spend a little more pondering.

Favorite Line:

“My English teacher did not teach me what I call God’s Grammar Lesson: Don’t put a period where He has a comma because He has a plan for every life He creates.”

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Rating: 5 carats

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

Hurricanes In Paradise

2010-08-02T12:50:00.000-04:00

Hurricanes in Paradise
By Denise Hildreth

About the Book:
When Riley Sinclair stepped into her new job as director of guest relations at a posh resort on Paradise Island, she felt the final pieces of her once-broken life coming together. But the waters become choppy when Riley discovers that some who come to the Atlantis Hotel are accompanied by paralyzing secrets and overwhelming fears. Riley and three guests are in desperate but unknowing need of each other, eventually forging unlikely yet powerful friendships. With a hurricane headed straight for the island, together they embark on a journey of laughter, heartache, and healing.

My Review:
Wow! I really liked this book. This is Denise Hildreth’s first book in two years and it was well worth the wait. I’ve read her books before but Hurricanes In Paradise is the best yet with a little bit of everything. It’s a beautiful story of fashion, friendship, overcoming pain, discovering who you were meant to be, and of course the beach! The four main characters are easy to fall in love with, flaws and all.

Tamyra, Winnie, Laine, and Riley were all strangers at the beginning of the book only to be transformed into lifelong friends as they vacationed at The Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas. The book alternates between the four women weaving their stories together. Denise has mastered the art of foreshadowing. With every scene she drew me in and right as I was holding my breath to see what happened, she switched to a different character whom I was equally as enthralled in. Even I wanted to skip pages ahead to see what happened and I am not a page skipper!

There is an urban legend which says the waters at the Atlantis heal and some come searching for it. These women are quick to find the water may not be what heals but are directed to the One who truly does heal. Denise talks about faith in God without being preachy and even through a fictional story can help you see that trusting in the Lord can heal our deepest hurts.

Favorite Quote:

“She was learning that control was an illusion, and she had a feeling that knowing would help her get through the week.”

I received this book free for review from Tyndale House Publishers
Rating: a whole gem parcel!!

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Asking For Trouble

2010-07-26T00:00:00.001-04:00

Asking For Trouble
By Sandra Byrd
If adjusting to a new school wasn’t enough, Savannah Smith had to adjust to a new school in an entirely different country. Once Savannah’s family moved to England her friends from Seattle moved too - moved on with life without her! Savannah could feel nothing but left out. Determined to make her new life as fun as it was in the United States, Savannah sets out to find exactly what she can do to fit in. Will it be the art club? The Science club? Gymnastics club? What about the school newspaper with the cute editor-in-chief, Jack? Savannah has always dreamed of being a journalist and just knows this must be it. Some things are easier said than done. Can Savannah fulfill her dreams, make new friends, and stay true to her faith?

Sandra Byrd has written another winner combining faith, fashion, friendships, and the struggles of everyday life into a fun read with compelling characters and dashes of British culture. My favorite part of the book is how relatable Savannah is. As I read the book I could sense the frustration and confusion Savannah experienced striving to find her place in England while sticking to her values. There isn’t much I did not like about this book. I would have enjoyed more information on Savannah’s life and friendships back in Seattle to understand why she felt so out of place in England. Cheerio!

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Rating: 4 carats

The Faith Dare

2010-07-21T00:00:00.005-04:00

The Faith Dare
By Debbie Alsdorf

About the Book:
Debbie Alsdorf wants women to experience the radically transforming difference that 30 days can make in their lives. It’s what she calls the Faith Dare, in which she challenges women to develop the habit of focusing on God and living out their faith in every situation for 30 days.

Alsdorf, a popular author, speaker and ministry leader, equips women to undertake this 30-day challenge in her new book, The Faith Dare. To cultivate a lifestyle of daily, passionate faith, she helps readers learn, day by day, to develop habits that will help them connect intimately to God.

Every day, readers will be challenged to go deeper. Examples of the daily dares include:

o Dare to live in the miracle of who you are.

o Dare to believe in God’s power in all circumstances.

o Dare to surrender to the process of change.

o Dare to speak praise, sing praise, and live with confidence in God.

Readers will also learn practical ways of applying God’s Word to their own lives, whether it’s in their personal relationship with God, learning to surrender to self, or living out God’s love to others.

With a personalized study guide, including daily readings, affirmations and challenges, Alsdorf’s 30-day challenge helps readers learn to live out their faith like never before and discover the incredible difference 30 days can make.

My Review:

In the first chapter of The Faith Dare Debbie writes, “The goal of this book is to look at life the way the Bible shows us.” Part one of the book explains what faith is, the common places we put our faith and questions to identify where our faith is. She then talks how God uses trials to test and strengthen our faith explaining placing our faith in the right person, God; we can learn to have peace through trials.

Part Two is the Thirty Day Faith Dare Challenge. Each day has a new challenge beginning with a short devotional writing and prayer/praise passage. Debbie then writes a Biblical truth pertaining to faith and goes on to explain what the Bible passage means. After that Debbie list a few dares to try throughout the day ranging from questions to ask yourself to activities like taking a walk specially paying attention to the scenery and wildlife around you. Wrapping up the day is a section to journal three things how the day’s truth spoke to you, what God is asking you to do, and what your challenge is to do. Debbie then closes with a prayer and a new belief to apply throughout the day.

Just reading the introductory chapters I was hooked and really anticipating the 30-day dare. Debbie writes what faith is, how our faith is tried, and common struggles we all have with faith. Yet she doesn’t just tell you, she gives you specific examples to explore where your faith is at. Debbie also breaks down what Bible verses mean and makes them easy to understand and apply. Often times she’ll quote the same verse then list different translations of the verse. I don’t think I’ve ever seen that in a book before.

Taking the time to do the dare and truly absorb what Debbie talks about has the ability to really teach and strengthen your faith. The only downfall I really see is that there is a lot of content focused on each day. When you have a busy life you may be tempted to speed through it. I think it would be best broken down maybe into weeks or smaller parts over a longer period. Debbie does state in the opening chapter that if feel you need to take more time on one challenge than spend as much time as you need on it. Grab a copy if you dare!

Favorite Line:

“You and I cannot generate faith for very long through human determination. Determination does not equal faith. Determination is a by-product of faith; it doesn’t cause faith. God gave us His words and promises to use as gifts. Take them and let them make a difference in your life.”

Rating: gem parcel

Learn about Debbie's Ministry HERE
Buy the book HERE
Rating: a whole gem parcel!

Perfectly Dateless

2010-07-14T00:00:00.003-04:00

Perfectly Dateless
By Kristin Billerbeck

About the Book:
The countdown to prom has begun. Daisy Crispin has 196 days to find the right date for the prom. There's only one problem--her parents won't let her date or even talk to a guy on the phone. Oh, and she's totally invisible at school, wears lame homemade clothes, and possesses no social skills. Okay, so maybe there's more than one problem.

My Review:

I really liked this book. I tend to like all things Kristin Billerbeck, from her books to her blog and her weekly Bachelor recaps. In Perfectly Dateless Kristin masterfully crafts an awkward perfectionist teenager, Daisy Crispin, striving to both please her parents and be popular (or at least not invisible).

Daisy has always dreamed of going to the prom. At the beginning of her senior year, Daisy sets out to get a date with the guy she has had a crush on since Kindergarten, convince her parents it is not a sin to date, and find a way to get people at her upscale Christian school to notice her.

Perfectly Dateless is a light, fast, and fun read weaving the world of teen pop culture into what it means to follow God. Kristin did a great job of showing Daisy’s awkwardness and struggles to let go of her perfectionist ways. Along the way Daisy learned things aren’t always what they seem on the outside and sometimes what we think we want isn’t always what is best.

Kristin wrote this book as a young adult but I think anyone could pick it up and enjoy it, especially if you’ve liked the wit and style of her Ashley Stockingdale series.

Favorite Line:

“My image of perfection clouded God’s vision, and I learned a hard lesson.”

I received this book free for review from Revell Book Publishers.

Visit Kristin's Website
Follow Kristin's journey through pink, pop culture, and the pursuit of truth
Buy the book

Rating: 5 carats

Men and Dogs

2010-07-07T00:00:00.011-04:00

Men and Dogs
By Katie Crouch
After her husband cheats and abruptly leaves, Hannah Legare, is forced to face the life she fled years ago. Hannah leaves San Francisco, CA for her hometown of Charleston, SC to live with her mother and wealthy stepfather.

When Hannah was eleven her father disappeared while boating but a body was never found. Hannah believes that he is still alive somewhere and blames her inability to move on for attracting a cheating husband.

This story switches between the summer of 1984 when Hannah’s father disappeared and 2008 where she is searching for answers and following the presidential election. I really liked the in-depth descriptions of Charleston, SC and the quirky habits of the characters but all in all the book wasn’t that great. The characters don’t seem to relate to each other or draw you in as the reader. The plot was strange weaving sparks of real life politics and a fictional accident in 1984.

I received this book free for review from Hachette Audio Group

Favorite Quote:

“There isn’t always a why

Visit Katie's website
Buy the book HERE
Rating: 3 carats

Eat the Cookie.... Buy the Shoes

2010-06-30T00:00:00.014-04:00

Eat the Cookie...Buy the Shoes
By Joyce Meyer

It is engrained in our society that the harder you work and stick to your schedule the happier, more productive, and more successful you’ll be. In Eat the Cookie, Buy the Shoes Joyce Meyer points out why this thinking is wrong and ways to change it.

Though setting goals and being disciplined is important, balance is the most important in leading a restful, happy, and productive life. Joyce sets out to help us feel less guilty about straying for our planned goals and even embracing lifes little indulgences. So sit down, grab a cookie, and enjoy yourself.

I really liked the book. The concept is simple but important. As someone who likes routine and sticking to her schedule this book was refreshing to think that it’s alright to take time for things we really enjoy and that simply make us happy, even if it’s a little frivolous.

Although the theme of the book is celebration, Joyce does a great job of pointing out that we need to discipline ourselves to do what is important and not put ourselves in a situation where we are lazy or overspending on our wants. I think she did a great job of balancing the theme of celebration with the importance of discipline proving that she truly understands and has experience the subject herself.

I listened to the audio version of this book and the narrator was the biggest downfall of the entire book. Her voice was boring and she talked slowly to enunciate everything well but doing so stopped her from being engaging and she ended up sounding more like a boring high school teacher than someone who wants to inspire to you lighten up and celebrate.

I received this book free for review from Hachette Audio Group

Favorite Quote:

“Celebration strengthens us”

Rating: 5 carats

Visit Joyce's website
Buy the book HERE

Rating: 5 carats

God Never Blink: 50 Lessons for Life's Little Detours

2010-06-23T00:00:00.003-04:00

God Never Blinks: 50 Lessons for Life's Little Detours
By Regina Brett
After cancer struck in her 40’s, Regina Brett wrote “45 Lessons Life Taught Me” for the Cleveland Plain Dealer newspaper she worked for in Cleveland, OH. When people began emailing the lessons around Regina added five more lessons and turned it into the book, God Never Blinks.

Regina begins by sharing that when she was younger she felt as though at the time she was born God blinked and over looked her life. Through the years she’s gathered lessons proving that God does not blink. Regina explores the reasons why God does not blink seen through her own personal stories, the love of her friends, and people she has learned about as a columnist for the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

Written in a conversational tone, Regina is upfront about her mistakes and short comings. The book is funny, thought provoking and poignant with lessons like “Don’t take yourself too seriously - no one else does” and “Life is too short to waste time hating anyone”.

God Never Blinks makes for a great coffee table book and one to flip through whenever you’re feeling a little down or contemplative. I listened to the audio version of this book read by the author herself. I really liked that it was read by Regina because she was able to put emphasis on issues she wanted, the way she meant for them to be.

I received this book free for review from Hachette Audio Group.

Favorite Quote:

“The only day worth living is the one I’m in.”

Learn more about Regina HERE
Buy the book HERE
Rating: 4 carats

Brava, Valentine

2010-06-16T00:00:00.015-04:00

Brava, Valentine
By Adriana Trigiani
Brava, Valentine , the sequel to Very Valentine , begins in Tuscany with Valentine Roncolli and her family attending the winter wedding of their grandmother Teodora and Dominic Vechiarelli. On Valentine’s first trip to Tuscany (Very Valentine) Valentine was taken aback by Dominic’s son, Gianluca. Valentine eagerly anticipates seeing him at the wedding but things don’t go as planned.

Now that Teodora is living in Italy with her new husband, she entrusts the Angelini shoe company in Greenwich Village, NYC to Valentine and her brother. As Valentine faces the new challenges of running a business with energy and determination she feels something is missing from her life and is drawn into mystery and romanticism when a letter from Gianluca arrives in her mailbox. Can Valentine live up to the image Gianluca paints of her in his letters from across the Atlantic?

The story weaves a journey from Italy to New York City onto Buenos Aries, Argentina. I absolutely love the descriptions of everything - from where Valentine was living at the moment, to how they made the shoes, to envisioning what the shoes must look like. This book is definitely a fun and engaging read. Brava, Adriana Trigiani!

Favorite Quote:

"A handwritten letter carries a lot of risk. It's a one-sided conversation that reveals the truth of the writer. Furthermore, the writer is not there to see the reaction of the person he writes to, so there's a great unknown to the process that requires a leap of faith. The writer has to choose the right words to express his sentences, and then, once he has sealed the envelope, he has to place those thoughts in the hands of someone else, trusting that the feelings will be delivered, and that the recipient will understand the writer's intent. How childish to think that could be easy."

Rating: 5 carats

Visit Adriana's website HERE

Buy the book HERE

Operation Worship

2010-06-09T00:00:00.002-04:00

Operation Worship Pink Camo Bible

The Operation Worship Pink Camo Bible is a special edition New Living Translation Bible for wives, mothers, sisters, friends, and girlfriends of persons in the military.

It’s a small Bible with pieces of pink camo paper to pull out and write simple notes on, a military prayer for peace, a guide to studying the Bible, and excerpts of letters to people in the military at the back of the Bible. It’s cute.

I received this Bible for a free review from Tyndale House Publsihers

Favorite Quote:

“O Lord, while we are apart, make us instruments of your peace.

When there is hatred let us plant the seeds of your love;

Where the is anger,..restraint;

Where there is brutality,…kindness;

Where there is fear,…courage;

Where there is pride,..humility;

Where there is blindness,…wisdom;

Lord, while we are apart, help us entrust our lives to you.

Where there is loneliness, make your presence known;

Where there is doubt, give us faith;

Where there is despair, awaken in us hope;

Where there is darkness, shine your light;

Where there is sadness, fill us with joy;

Lord, while we are apart, bless us and protect us.

Smile on us and be gracious to us.

Show us your favor and give us your peace.

And use us to plant seeds of blessing

wherever we go, whatever we do,

in everything we say.

We pray all these things

for the sake of your Name and your Kingdom.

Amen.

Learn more about Operation Worship HERE
Buy Assorted Military Bibles HERE

Rating: 5 carats

The Telling

2010-06-02T00:00:00.024-04:00

The Telling
by Beverly Lewis

This is the third and final book in the Seasons of Grace series by Beverly Lewis. The series is set around an Amish family in Bird-in-Hand, Pennsylvania and is a story of God’s provision and redemption.

In the first two books Lettie Byler left her family without any explanation for Ohio to find the missing piece of the life she left when she was a teenager. The third installment starts with Lettie’s daughter in Pennsylvania, Grace Byler, setting out on a quest to find her missing mother and to bring her home.

Grace takes a ride with an “Englisher” named Heather Nelson who’d recently been diagnosed with cancer and is going to Ohio to attend an alternative treatment facility.

Will mother, daughter, and one seriously ill “Englisher” find what they are looking for?

Every Beverly Lewis book is good and this one is no exception. Beverly offers a glimpse into the life of the reclusive Amish people that are so easily misunderstood. The Telling is simple yet deep as it unfolds and illustrates covering up our mistakes only makes situations worse than had we owned up to them in the first place.

I listened to the audio version of this book and really liked that there was a different voice for each character. The Amish characters even had a traditional Amish accent which gave a certain authenticity to these characters.

Favorite Quote:
"Sighing, I knew in my heart I was willing to put up with any awkwardness-even fear-if it meant bringing mama home"

I reviewed this audiobook for review from Christianaudio.com
Learn about Beverly HERE
Buy the book HERE

Rating: 5 carats

Captivating

2010-05-26T00:00:00.032-04:00

Captivating
By John and Stasi Elderegde
Captivating is set around the premise every little girl asks the questions, “Am I lovely? Am I beautiful? Am I captivating?” Throughout life we go on with the daily grind but deep inside our hearts we are still asking ourselves these questions and looking to external things to answer them. Captivating explains how God places these desires into our hearts and how ‘looking time’ can help answer the questions and what it takes to become truly captivating.

John and Stasi Elderidge talk candidly about how we all can easily fall into a fantasy world of the way we think things should be. When our lives don’t play out the way we thought they should many women escape to mindless movies, romance novels, food, or whatever else brings comfort. What many of us miss is how all our struggles and longings stem from the fall of Adam and Eve.

As the pages are turned, Captivating doesn’t promise if you do A and B you’ll get C but explains how we are beautiful because we are made by Christ and everyone’s shortcomings stem from the fall of man. The chapters are filled with thought-provoking questions of where we stand in certain areas followed by a prayer asking God to help us turn to Him and away from the lies we have believed.

I first heard of this book a few years ago when it was newly published. Friends of mine had talked about being captivated by it just as the title says. So that’s exactly what I expected - to be drawn in and unable to put the book down by the way it explains the questions all women ask. I wasn’t as captivated by this book as I thought I would be, possibly because all had I heard previously about it. However I do think there are many good points scattered throughout the pages, they just seemed hard to find. It is definitely a book to read when you want to sit down, really digest each chapter and ask yourself tough questions.

Favorite Quote:

“We have never considered that by living a controlling and domineering life we are really refusing to trust God. And it has never dawned on us that something precious in us is being squelched, diminished, or refused. Something that God has given us to bring to the world.”

I received this book as a review copy for free from Thomas Nelson Publishers
Learn about John and Stasi's minstry HERE
Buy the book HERE
Rating: 4 carats

Peculiar Treasures

2010-05-08T12:54:00.003-04:00

Peculiar Treasures by Robin Jones Gunn

After attending her best friend’s wedding Katie Weldon begins to wonder about her own life. As she juggles her friendships, her sort-of boyfriend, Rick, ponders whether to take a job as a Resident Advisor, and contemplates declaring a major, Katie starts to constantly question what she is doing with her life and where she wants to go.

This is the first book in the Katie Weldon series and is a continuation of the Christy Miller and Sierra Jenson series by Robin Jones Gunn. I've only read a little bit of the Christy Miller series but I can definitely see how these characters have grown in depth and become more dimensional as they have progressed through college.

Katie is sweet and relatable to almost any 20-something girl who has wondered about life. Robin Jones Gunn has a fantastic way of lightheartedly and captivatingly sweeping you up into her stories, leaving your heart filled with warmth. I think the only way to describe her writing is from a quote in the middle of the book, "What I appreciate about you is your freshness and honesty. You say things I would never think of saying and you say them in a way that makes me think."

There is nothing peculiar about this treasure!

Favorite Line:
"I wonder if being willing is a just as good in God's eyes as being ready. Especially since it’s kind of difficult to be ready when you don't even know where you're going in the morning."

Rating: 5 carats

Browse Robin's website and online store HERE

Buy the book HERE

Three Weddings and a Bar Mitzvah

2010-04-27T12:44:00.007-04:00

by Melody Carlson

Three Weddings and a Bar Mitzvah is the fourth and final book in Melody Carlson’s 86 Bloomberg Place Series. The four roommates are now busy planning weddings for Lelani and Kendall but the families of both girls are making everything difficult. As the wedding planning gets underway both Megan’s and Anna's lives start falling apart even though they try to conceal it to be happy for Lelani and Kendall.

This book is written as all Melody Carlson books are, lighthearted and realistic. I enjoy how the friendships grew and strengthened throughout the book and how they became one another’s family when they had no one else to turn to. The ending is sweet and wraps up the whole series perfectly in an airy, peaceful way.

Favorite Line:
"God had known what they needed all through the ups and downs of life. Through the heartache and growing up God used their friendships to touch them. He truly knit their hearts together."
Rating: 4 carats

Look at Melody's website HERE
Buy the book HERE

Not a Sparrow Falls

2010-04-20T15:13:00.004-04:00

Not a Sparrow Falls by Linda Nichols

Not a Sparrow Falls

A carefully planned escape helps Mary Bridget Washington run from an abusive relationship and a circle of friends to start her life over in Alexandria, Va. She takes on the name Bridie and begins working as a nanny for a Pastor with three children whose wife died two years ago.

Samantha, the Pastor’s oldest daughter, reaches out to Bridie in a note one night at dinner. Although Bridie is lost and confused herself, she remembers her childhood with her grandma and the godly way her grandmother lived her life. As the words of Bridie’s grandmother float through her mind, Bridie looks to the Lord and decides to do whatever possible to help Samantha. Little does Bridie know that reaching out to someone else will completely change and restore her view of life.

This book was a little strange because I didn’t always know if it was contemporary or old fashioned, even though it is listed as contemporary romance I’m not even sure where the romance was. The book felt very heavy and dark, even the scenes that were supposed to be uplifting. However it is a story about God’s forgiveness and how He stays with us all the time no matter how far we run from Him. Hence the title Not a Sparrow Falls.

I received this book free for review from Bethany House Publishers.

Favorite line:
"The arm of flesh will fail you," Bridie's grandmother had been fond of reminding her, especially after she'd started dating, bringing home this one and that one, going on and on about them. "Love with all your heart, but don't look to anybody but the Lord to fill up your empty spots. There's never been a man born who can do that, and I don't care if he's the finest thing since store-bought pickles.""

Visit Linda's website HERE

Buy the Book HERE
Rating: 3 carats

The Last Song

2010-04-12T12:41:00.004-04:00

The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks

Ronnie Miller and her brother, Jonah, are shipped off to spend the summer with their estranged father. Ronnie is still angry at her father over her parents’ divorce. When her parents’ marriage ended she stopped talking to him and now is livid with her mother for forcing her to spend the summer with him.

From the moment she arrives, Ronnie puts distance between her and her father by spending the first night away from his home. As Ronnie runs from him she meets Will and Blaze. It’s this night that ultimately changes her summer.

If you are a Nicholas Sparks fan, you won’t be disappointed. The Last Song is perfect to his form of telling emotional love stories with spiritual themes that don’t preach and show that even the darkest clouds have silver linings. If you just like a good romance or an emotional journey you’ll like this book as well.

From the moment I started reading this book I could clearly picture Miley Cyrus playing the part of Ronnie with her mannerisms and the way she talks real loud. I can’t wait to see the movie!

Favorite Line:
“Life, he realized, was much like a song. In the beginning there is mystery, in the end there is confirmation, but it's in the middle where all the emotion resides to make the whole thing worthwhile."

Rating: 5 carats

Rodeo Sweetheart

2010-03-27T15:06:00.009-04:00

Rodeo Sweetheart by Betsy St. Amant

About the Book:

To save her family ranch—and her father’s legacy—Samantha Jenson reluctantly runs a dude ranch on the financially strapped property. Among the greenhorn tourists in stiff jeans and shiny cowboy boots: handsome businessman Ethan Ames. Ethan makes Sam remember her own dreams—of love and marriage. But surely he’ll ride out of her life—in his fancy car—when his vacation is over. Until she learns that Ethan isn’t on vacation at all. He has a very big secret. One that just might destroy her dreams of being his rodeo sweetheart…forever.

About the Author:

Betsy St. Amant lives in Louisiana and is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers group. Betsy is multi-published through Steeple Hill and has been published in Christian Communicator magazine and Praise Reports: Inspiring Real Life Stories of How God Answers Prayer. One of her short stories, ‘Kickboxing or Chocolate’, appears in a Tyndale compilation book, and she is also multi-published through The Wild Rose Press. Betsy has a BA in Christian Communications and regularly contributes articles to Crosswalk.com. She is a wife, author, new mother and an avid reader who enjoys sharing the wonders of God’s grace through her stories.

My Review:

Samantha Jenson is determined. She’s determined to keep her family’s dude ranch and determined to keep her father’s legacy alive. As far as Sam is concerned the ranch is the most important thing in her life. Sam puts her personal life aside but still wonders what would happen if she didn’t. Regardless, Sam will go to whatever lengths necessary for the ranch, even if it means putting herself in danger.

Ethan Ames grew up in the family business. Ethan is use to making as much money as possible and doing whatever is necessary to close a lucrative deal. His working vacation on a dude ranch in Texas along with a pretty cowgirl turns his thoughts upside down, leaving him to wonder - is money and being successful in the family business really the most important thing?

The book alternates between the lives of Sam and Ethan as each of them ponder what their lives would’ve been like if they had taken different paths. Betsy St. Amant does a good job of capturing their angst and questioning of their lives through their actions and thought process. Her descriptions of the ranch are strong enough to make you feel you are in the middle of the ranch too.

I like this book as it’s contemporary when most westerns are historical. As I read the book I could picture it as a Hallmark or Lifetime move, with good actors, of course!

Favorite Line:
“Some things just weren’t meant to be - even if under the glow of the stars is seemed, as if, for

a moment, they could.”
Check out Betsy's website HERE

Betsty Blog's daily HERE

Buy the book HERE
Rating: 5 carats

Never Say Never

2010-03-25T14:32:00.005-04:00

Never Say Never by Lisa Wingate

For her 70th birthday Donetta Bradford decides to step out of her small town life in Daily, Texas and go on a cruise with her three best friends. On their way to the Texas coast they encounter bottlenecked roads from everyone trying to get out of town. After their car breaks down they stop at a gas station and see a giant hurricane is headed right towards Texas where they were supposed to leave for the cruise.

Kai Miller never had a normal life. She grew up moving from town to town as her father tried to make it as a musician. Never having put down roots and never knowing how to stay in one place for too long, Kai takes a job on a cruise ship. After accidently oversleeping Kai goes to work only to find out her cruise ship left post early because a major hurricane is on its way. Kai evacuates but runs out of gas and stops at a gas station to find three ladies stranded and offers to take them along to get out of the way of the hurricane.

Each chapter switches between the points of view of Kai and Donetta. This frequently became confusing because they both were first person points of view and I had to mentally remember who was narrating each chapter.

Although the southern drawl of Donnetta and her friends spelled out phonetically was sometimes amusing, at times it was hard too because it didn’t flow easily. Donetta’s points of view were filled with wonderful southern metaphors and similes.

All in all the book felt very long and drawn out moving slowly like Texas tumbleweed on a calm day. However, the book culminated with a sweet ending which put a smile on my face.

Review copy provided by Bethany House Publishers

Favorite Line:
“Maybe life is a balancing act between the things you choose and the things you sacrificed.”

Rating: 3 carats

Buy the book HERE

Look at Lisa's website HERE

The Divine Dance

2010-03-18T12:48:00.000-04:00

About the Book:

e want to be liked—that's why we put so much energy into pleasing others. Life has become a dance that we perform for others, auditioning for a place in the hearts of everyone we meet. We put our energy into performances to please our parents, friends, teachers, boys—even people we don't know. It's simple: We all desire to be loved and accepted. But in this busy, complicated world, we should be dancing as we were designed to—for the One who really cares. When the audiences are gone and we take off our masks, that's the part the Director likes best. Away from the alluring lights and demanding crowds, we can know ourselves and God in a powerful, meaningful way. When we realize that the One who matters already loves us, we will flourish in this life that is the Divine Dance.

About The Author:

rom the moment she learned to talk, author and speaker Shannon (Kubiak) Primicerio has been engaging audiences with her wit and wisdom. A writer from the second she could hold a pencil, Shannon brings a deep passion for God and a keen awareness of the issues teen girls face to both the page and the stage. Whether you are reading one of her books or sitting in a room listening to her speak, you will feel like you know Shannon—and like she knows you. Using Scripture, personal illustrations and questions that provoke reader interaction, Shannon is able to bring the Bible to life so that teen girls can apply it to the daily drama of their own circumstances. Some of her favorite biblical illustrations are teen girls themselves—Leah, Hagar, Miriam and Mary. Shannon has a B.A. in journalism and a minor in Biblical studies from Biola University, and was the recipient of the North County Times Excellence in Writing award in 2000, and the San Diego Christian Writers' Guild Nancy Bayless Award for Excellence in Writing in 2003. Her first book, The Divine Dance, was published while she was still in college. She has been interviewed on radio and television programs across the nation and featured in such media outlets as PBS' Religion and Ethics Newsweekly, The Harvest Show and TIME magazine. Her ministry spans the globe, as her books are available in several languages. Shannon also served as a mentor to young authors through the Jerry B. Jenkins Christian Writers Guild for three years before creating her own writing curriculum for tweens and teens. Her articles have appeared in Marriage Partnership and BRIO magazines. In 2006 Shannon and her husband, Michael, traveled to Lima, Peru as part of the annual BRIO missions trip. Although Shannon and Michael live in Southern California they are avid fans of the New York Yankees. They also partner with Compassion International to help eradicate global poverty. Shannon enjoys interacting with her readers and can constantly be found updating them on her whereabouts from her Blackberry via Twitter and Facebook.

My Review:

“If the world is your stage, who are you performing for?” It’s a simple question but a tough answer. As Shannon Primicerio explores in this book written towards women, people get caught up in performing for the approval of others whether friends, family, guys, teachers, or anyone we come across.

At the beginning of the book Shannon writes, “The Divine Dance is my life message. Writing this book brought me freedom. Continuing to live out its purpose is what keeps me free. It is a lesson for women of any age.”

As soon as the music began in chapter one I was captivated by the dance and how we can easily miss the dancing steps for the One who gave us the ability to dance in the first place. Shannon explains dancing for God is a form of worship while dancing for the world is a form of idolatry which is the reason we feel unsatisfied.

The chapters gracefully move through situations we have all faced and how we perform in them, whether for the world or for God. The book is written with practical information and help to enlighten how we lose sight of who we are dancing for. Ending each chapter is four or five questions to invoke further thought. The purpose of these questions is to help the reader think through the actions and “dancing steps” we can put into practice as we learn the divine dance.

Shannon writes with sensitivity, passion, and a streaming beautiful metaphor woven through the pages of a small girl in a pink dress standing on stage hoping to please everyone. Grab your dancing shoes, your ballet tights and begin to ask the question, “If the world is my stage, who am I performing for?”

Favorite Line:
“You may look around and feel completely alone in whatever you do. You may be embarrassed to get up on the worlds stage and dance because your dance is choreographed a little differently than everyone else’s. But if you don’t dance the way that you were made to dance, God will be robbed of some of His glory. Better to dance to a different beat than to dance to one that just isn’t you.”

Rating: Gem Parcel

Catch up with Shannon http://http//beingagirlbooks.com/

Revolve 2010

2010-03-10T12:36:00.001-05:00

Revolve 2010

Revolve 2010 is the New Contemporary Version of the New Testament formatted like a magazine (coined a biblezine) and aimed at teenage girls.

Revolve is separated into three sections: The Gospels and Acts, which consists of books Matthew through Acts; Letters from Paul including Romans through Philemon; and Letters to Everyone filled with Hebrews through Revelation. Each section includes complete books of the Bible interspersed with quizzes, real life stories, fashion and beauty tips, and interviews with Christian celebrities such as Jodrin Sparks and Cody Linley.

A surprise I found at the top or bottom of most pages was a verse in the form of a text message. I like this idea, I mean who wouldn’t want a text message from God although I think using text lingo made it a little hard to understand what the verse was all about.

Scattered throughout the biblezine are “good book” profiles similar to a facebook profile of women throughout the Bible. These profiles have a quick reference to where each woman was from, what things each were involved in, and who each was married to. These profiles are a cool way to relate to what it may be like to know each woman if she were here today. The profiles allow the readers to get to know these women on a more personal level.

The biblezine also contains a few blog posts explaining varied Bible stories in inspiring, modern language much like you would tell a story in Sunday school. I enjoyed seeing how these stories can relate to things going on today.

Review copy provided by Thomas Nelson
Rating: 4 carats

Piece de Resistance

2010-02-27T15:25:00.000-05:00

Piece de Resistance By Sandra Byrd

About the Author:
After earning her first rejection at the age of 13, bestselling author Sandra Byrd went on to publish three dozen books including her widely-acclaimed adult fiction debut, Let Them Eat Cake, and her recent four-book young adult fiction series, Friends for a Season. A former textbook acquisitions editor, Sandra is also an accomplished non-fiction writer and author. Her articles have appeared in numerous publications such as Radiant, Focus on the Family's Clubhouse Magazine, Christian Parenting Today, Pockets, Decision, and Guideposts. During the past seven years, Sandra has mentored hundreds of students through the Christian Writer's Guild.

About the Book:
Having earned her chef’s hat, Lexi Stuart bids ‘au revoir’ to her glamorous and deliciously satisfying pastry mentorship outside of Paris and returns home to Seattle, Washington.
In Seattle Lexi finds life unexpectedly complicated when she is put in charge of the high-end catering bakery, Bijoux. The bakery should be her dream job but there’s a catch: Lexi has to make this lavish bakery into a successful business in a few short months which will require more than an ability to make amazing wedding cakes. Stir into the mix a complicated relationship with her French beau Philippe and his daughter, Celine, add a dash of romance with a down-to-earth lawyer and life suddenly contains more ooh la la than Lexi can handle.

Review:
‘Piece de Resistance’ is the last and best part of a meal. Sandra Byrd’s novel of the same name doesn’t disappoint. As the heroine Lexi Stuart excitedly returns to her hometown, fulfilling her dream of running a high-end catering bakery, she is quickly splattered with cake batter from an out of control mixer. Lexi soon is led to examine where she has placed her faith and is left wondering if her dreams are as exquisitely ooh la la as she hoped.

Piece de Resistance is a rare novel which leaves you sad it has come to an end. You finish craving more, more of the French sweets, sights and sounds intermingled throughout the pages. The book is filled with enticing scenes and yummy recipes to delight the senses.

Piece de Resistance isn’t just five carats of sparkle; it’s a whole gem parcel.

Favorite Line:
“The thought occurred to me that if I always lived under the certainty of God’s provision instead of the certainty of Lexis’s worry, I might always feel this free.”

Rating: Gem Parcel

2010-02-11T12:46:00.000-05:00

It all started when I read the story of a little girl who got a bad haircut. She hated it, cried and wouldn’t go to school. I told myself I would never get a bad haircut like that but of course I did.

Then there was a pair of jeans which magically fit four best friends and traveled with them around the world through the summer. It was so much fun traveling with them.

A little while later I was shopping till I dropped with Becky Brandon (nee’ Bloomwood) as she fell in love with luggage, moved to New York City, planned two weddings on two continents two days apart, spent a year traveling for her honeymoon, attempted to make over her long lost sister, and who is currently outfitting her little baby girl, Minnie.

I love books. I have always loved books. So which books sparkle like a pink sapphire? Stories so multi-faceted with characters, dialogue, and plots you can’t put them down? Books becoming an accessory in and of themselves? You’ve come to the right place. I’ll tell you which books are five carat worthy.