Forgiven by Terri Roberts

Forgiven: The Amish School Shooting, a Mother’s Love, and a Story of Remarkable Grace by Terri Roberts
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

"Forgiveness is a choice, not a feeling." I think this quote adequately summarizes this entire tragic, autobiographical account of Terri Roberts.
To be honest this book was very difficult for me to read at times, and in places I found the narrative to be almost distant and lacking in emotion to the point it seemed almost journalistic.
Still this story and the message of forgiveness touched me very deeply.

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.


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Quotes and Excerpts from Dietrich Von Hildebran

~ "Better to be a beggar in freedom than to be forced into compromises against my conscience."~

~ "It is remarkable how deeply we can become trapped in our own inner world and how much this diminishes our ability, if we are not sufficiently prepared, to open ourselves to significant encounters, which are a gift from God."~

~ "Habit is a sort of beneficial adaptability in human beings that can make their lives more bearable, yet it is also a force that can diminish the spiritual alertness of a person, which is the foundation of all true moral and spiritual life. Under certain circumstances, it can even eliminate this alertness entirely."~

~"For in the long run anti-Semitism  always ends in anti-Christianism, as the development of the Nazi doctrine so abundantly proves. This connection between anti-Semitism and anti-Christianism is not accidental but is determined by an inner logic..." ~

~" Whoever habitually consorts with persons who are morally perverted in their basic outlook will, as a result of putting up with their attitude, slowly become poisoned himself, even if he had initially rejected it with indignation and never given it his approval in any way. If he does not "break" with the others, his initial indignation will soon subside and turn into a mere regret; he will become more and more desensitized by getting used to the base moral atmosphere they inhabit."~ (Excerpt from The Danger of Becoming Morally Blunted)

~"Finally Hitler's declaration denies the unity of human nature,  and thus also the community of mankind.Christianity does not merely teach the descent of all human beings from Adam and Eve, nor does the Church only teach that human persons constitute one family. Rather the tatality of all persons- all those who have ever lived, who are living now, and who are still to be born- from such a close community that it was possible for everyone to fall in Adam and Eve and for everyone to be redeemed and raised up in Christ. The unity of all human beings, the totality of mankind, is an indispensable presupposition of Christian doctrine." ~ (Excerpt from Ceterum Censeo...!)

~"The spirit of the age is characterized by disaffection with individualistic liberalism."~

~That only God can provide such satisfaction becomes most obvious when we consider that all human yearnings to be set free of error and perversion must, in the end, lead to Christ."~

My Review of "My Battle Against Hitler" by Dietrich Von Hildebrand

SYNOPSIS: How does a person become Hitler’s enemy number one? Not through espionage or violence, it turns out, but by striking fearlessly at the intellectual and spiritual roots of National Socialism.
Dietrich Von Hildebrand was a German Catholic thinker and teacher who devoted the full force of his intellect to breaking the deadly spell of Nazism that ensnared so many of his beloved countrymen.

In the light of current political tragedies involving the killing of Christians and the world's silent and apathetic response to it this book is truly stirring for concerned Christians who wonder "where will it end and what should I be doing?".
This book is very well written and fairly organized and I truly appreciate the profound philosophical ideas that were explicated in this book. I also found the second part of the book to be particularly interesting as will anyone who enjoys historical readings of actual history changing speeches given during this time era.
The only reason I only gave this book four stars instead of five is, although I understand he was a catholic philosopher I did find Hildebrands exclusionary catholic views tend to be restrictive concerning the issues he was addressing at times. I agree, no Catholic can justify with a clean conscience the atrocities of the NAZI party but then again neither should anyone who names the name of Christ, whether protestant or catholic.


* I received this book at no charge in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.*

Cloak of Light by Chuck Black

Cloak of the Light by Chuck Black

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


It seems like life is destined to be hard for Drew Carter. Tragedy just seems to follow him. When he loses his eyesight in a physics lab accident the doctors have no hope of him ever seeing again but they were wrong. As his vision begins to return he begins see dark and light "invaders" from another dimension in a battle over the world of men.
Only one other person will understand, his friend Ben Berger but he has disappeared and finding him without drawing attention to the dark invaders is a daunting and seemingly impossible task... they know he can see them and they will stop at nothing to destroy him.
I really enjoyed this story! Having read the Knights of Arrethtrae I was afraid that an "adult" book would diminish the straight forward and concise writing style of his other books. Not a chance!
This is such a thought provoking book it will satisfy any philosophical reader and enough adventure to entertain the most demanding science fiction lover!
I highly recommend!!!!

I received this book free in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own! 



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A Voice in the Wind by Francine Rivers

A Voice in the Wind by Francine Rivers

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


I began reading this book earlier in the month but as my grandmother's health was declining, I was too distracted to read during those last precious days. Coming back to this book was really special at such a time!
"Rather than remain a sealed jar, she sought only to pour herself out to others. Everything she did mirrored her faith. It was as though every waking hour of the day she was devoted to pleasing her God by serving others. This God that she worshiped consumed her. It didn't ask for a brief visit to a temple, or a small votive offering of food or coin, or a few prayers every now and then. This God wanted all of her." ... such was true of my grandmother! <3 br="">
Having read and LOVED "Redeeming Love" I was afraid my expectations wouldn't be met in A Voice in the Wind, was I ever wrong!!! What can I say about this lovely book that hasn't already been said? This book changed the way I look at my commitment to Christ and His call to serve a dieing world! I was humbled, inspired, and deeply moved to the core of my being! Francine Rivers is truly a God given gift to the world of Christian Fiction!!!!
HIGHLY RECOMMEND! 



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Race for Freedom by Lois Walfrid Johnson

Race for Freedom by Lois Walfrid Johnson

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


"Libby Norstad and her friend Caleb try to help fugitive slave Jordan escape to the free northern states before Jordan's former master can find him and claim him under the recent Dred Scott ruling."

I did not read the first book in the series, maybe that is why I had a hard time really getting into this book. I like the geographical setting for the story, it reminded me a little of Tom Sawyer/Life on the Mississippi.
This is a cute and touching story for middle school aged children with enough adventure to keep even rambunctious boys reading.



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Sex and the Single Christian Girl by Marian Jordan Ellis

Sex and the Single Christian Girl: Fighting for Purity in a Rom-Com World by Marian Jordan Ellis

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


With dignity and grace Marian Ellis addresses the real issues single Christian women face today.
She doesn't just give us a list of do's and don'ts she tells us the hows and whys and how we can be victorious.
When she discussed Satan's methods of attack and how to recognize them and how we can counterattack, I was like "I thought I was the only person who struggled with this"!
Sex is a subject that is either degraded or totally ignored in the "church ", much to Satan's delight. Sexual battles are real, we must actively fight temptation not pretend it doesn't exist. Marian  candidly brings out that there is a war for our souls whether we believe it or not and God still expects sexual purity until marriage ... "abstain from fleshly lusts, which WAGE WAR against the soul."
A challenging and enlightening book I would recommended for single women of all ages!

I received this book free in exchange for an honest review.



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Merlin's Blade by Robert Treskillard

Merlin's Blade by Robert Treskillard

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


A strange meteorite.
A deadly enchantment.
And only Merlin can destroy it.

A meteorite brings a mysterious black stone whose sinister power ensnares everyone except Merlin, the blind son of a swordsmith. Soon, all of Britain will be under its power, and he must destroy the stone—or die trying.

This story is so intricate! So elegant! It is really a sophisticated book based off of both fantasy, legend, and history, to create a tale that is beyond fascinating!!
This is one of my favorite books I've read, the style reminds me somewhat of Steven Lawhead but actually much better.
Although considered "teen fiction" I would recommend it to an older audience without hesitation.

I received this book free in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.



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Emma of Aurora by Jane Kirkpatrick

Emma of Aurora: The Complete Change and Cherish Trilogy by Jane Kirkpatrick

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


This book is really three books combined, making it beyond my skill level to write a decent summary, without revealing spoilers. That being said I will forgo the preliminaries and begin with my thoughts and impressions of this book.
Jane Kirkpatrick breathes life into her characters, their emotions are flawlessly expressed, their thoughts are elegantly formed and although the characters grow throughout the book they stay true to themselves.
This story is as sad as it is inspiring, Emma's courage and ingenuity are remarkable and her determination to stand when everything around her is falling is truly inspiring!
Don't let the size of this book keep you from reading it. you will be amazed how fast Jane Kirkpatrick will have you enthusiastically reading through the very last page!



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An Elegant Solution by Paul Robertson

An Elegant Solution by Paul Robertson

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Young Leonhard is a math prodigy learning from one of the greatest mathematicians in Europe. But his Master Johann's family is torn apart by distrust and selfishness and maybe something more sinister.
When a mysterious murder happens Leonhard begins to do some investigating of his own, what he finds is a unending spiral of questions that demand an elegant solution!
I Love, LOve, LOVe, LOVE this book!! Wow, such elegance and adventure, with just a hint of theology.
This is one of the best books I've read all year! It reads a bit like classic literature but I found that only added to the charm. I found the Latin used tastefully throughout the book added a decidedly sophisticated charm.
The beginning starts off slightly on the slow side but keep reading it's amazing!

I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.



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Sinners Creed by Scott Stapp

Sinner's Creed by Scott Stapp

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


Sinner’s Creed is the uncensored memoir of Scott Stapp, Grammy Award-winning leader of the multiplatinum rock band CREED. Raised by an abusive stepfather, Scott was always aware of God's presence in his life, but it wasn't until years later, amid a life punctuated by sex, drugs, and rock ’n roll that Scott began to feel a need for God in his life.

During CREED’s decade of dominance and in the years following the band's breakup, Scott struggled with drugs and alcohol, which led not only to a divorce, but also to a much-publicized suicide attempt in 2006. Now clean, sober, and in the midst of a highly successful solo career, Scott has finally come full circle-a turnaround he credits to his renewed relationship with Jesus Christ.

In Sinner's Creed, Scott shares his story for the first time, from his fundamentalist upbringing, the rise and fall of CREED, and his ongoing battle with addiction, to his recommitment to Christ and the launch of his solo career. The result is a gripping memoir that is proof positive that God is always present in our lives, despite the colossal mess we sometimes make of them.

Forgive me for not describing this book in "my own words", but I was so disappointed in this book it wouldn't be a flattering review at all.
I can feel sorry for Scott Stapp but I can't agree with him on very much at all. The idea of a Christian rock star doesn't seem Biblical. 2nd Corinthians 6:17 says "Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,"
There is eternal love and forgiveness but true repentance is a complete changing of everything in our life, including our music.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PWcXhE9NTQ

I received this book free in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.




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Stones for Bread by Christa Parrish

Stones for Bread by Christa Parrish

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Liesl McNamara is consumed with her bakery and her bread. It is her life! She doesn't need anything else to complete her, or so she thinks. Then by random circumstance she meets a divorced bachelor and his six year old daughter Cecelia, and her life begins to take a different turn.
Being around Seamus and Cecelia make her feel more complete then she has ever felt hiding away in her bakery, guarding her heart and her future from any harm. But then she receives an offer that is everything she has always believed shes wanted and a devastating family secret is revealed. Choices must be made!
Christa Parrish is truly a master of crafting stories and people we want to connect with. And I really enjoyed the history of bread making that was woven seamlessly throughout the book, who knew that even bread has an interesting story behind it?!
Definitely a book that will stay on my bookshelf with my favorites collection. I have enjoyed all of Christa Parrish's books so far!
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.



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Tyndale Rewards!

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His Treasure by Sheri Rose Shepherd

His Treasure: Gems of Love from Your King by Sheri Rose Shepherd

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


This book is so lovely! It truly makes you feel like a princess just holding it!!
The letters are so personal and touching! I know this is going to be a book I'll treasure for many years! I have never seen a book this beautiful in my life, and it's not "just" the cover or the ornate pages but the message on each page is beautiful.
The Bible translation is not King James, the version I'm used to reading, but if that bothers you I would recommend just looking them up in your personal Bible because there is so much to be gleaned from the "letters".
It would make such a thoughtful gift for any occasion!
I received a copy to review on my blog, yet somehow I feel as if it is a gift.. a gem of love from my King.
This is the kind of book that changes lives!

I received this book free in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.




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The First Christmas Night by Keith Christopher

The First Christmas Night by Keith Christopher

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


I agreed to review this book thinking it would be a nice book to give to the toddler that I babysit. NO WAY!! I love this book! The artwork is stunning and the poem is so classic, yet, I like it SO much better than the original "Twas the Night Before Christmas" poem.

"Twas the very first Christmas,
when all through the town
not a creature was stirring-
there was not a sound.
The moon, shining bright
in the heavens so high,
gave the luster of midday
to the Bethlehem sky."

If this book didn't distinctly say "ideals children's books" I would give these as gifts to adults!
The poem is recreated flawlessly, it's not a corny knock off and I just can't get over how beautiful the artwork is!!!
This book will proudly set on my bookshelf, safe from kids crayons and rough little fingers!

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned in this post for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services that I use personally and believe will serve you well. This disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
The opinions expressed here are my own.*



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Letting go of your Limitations by Sandie Freed

Letting Go of Your Limitations: Experiencing God's Transforming Power by Sandie Freed

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


There is a need for books like this in our modern world, however I found it reminded me a little of A.W Tozer's book "The Pursuit of God" at a much shallower level.
I like the way the author brings readers to know they can "have life and have it more abundant", yet, I didn't feel it stir me in the same way I am when I read Smith Wigglesworth or A.W Tozer.
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.



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Forever Friday by Timothy Lewis

Forever Friday: A Novel by Timothy Lewis

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


When Adam Colby an estate seller is going through an estate sale he comes across photo albums full of post cards, sent every Friday for sixty years from a husband to his wife.
As he begins to wonder what the secret is to lasting love and where he went wrong in his own marriage that ended in divorce.
What is the secret to finding your "soul mate"?
As he delves into the story of Gabe and "Huck" Alexander's lasting romance and Gabe's theory of "Long Division" he begins to understand there is no secret formula it's a life of choosing to be selfless, "two hearts commanding devotion".
I really liked this book. There were parts that seemed a bit superfluous but for the most part the only thing I didn't really much care for was the frequent use of alcohol by "christian" people but it is such a good book, in spite of that I still have to give it 5 stars.
I liked the way the romance was real and passionate yet clean.

I received this book free in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own. 




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The Christmas Candle by Max Lucado

The Christmas Candle by Max Lucado

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Set in the 1800's in England, a candle maker and his wife carry on the centuries old tradition of the Christmas Candle. Supposedly every 25 years an angel comes and touches one of the Haddington family  candles and when someone prays over it they get a Christmas miracle.
When a new pastor comes to the small village he runs headlong into some members of his parish when he insists God does not really do miracles anymore and that the Christmas Candle is a mere superstition.
When the Christmas Candle get mixed up with about 30 other candles the Haddingtons don't know what to do. With so many people needing miracles this year they have a hard choice to make.
I really enjoyed this little Christmas story. It was a short story more than a book really at only 190 pages but I rather enjoy a short, heartwarming Christmas story.
So turn on your Christmas CD, heat some hot cider and curl up by the fire with The Christmas Candle.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.



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Heart of the Country

Heart of the Country by Rene Gutteridge

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I watched the DVD "Heart of the Country" before I actually read the book to get a better perspective on the characters and where they were coming from.
Faith is a country girl through and through and Luke is a city boy to the core but together they make a perfect pair. Until one phone call from the police ruins everything, Luke is being questioned about a ponzi scheme in his business.
Faith is a runner, always has been, she ran away from home when her mother died and now she is running from Luke but the only place left to go is home, and to her estranged family and community.
Luke is much like Faith. He insisted on having his inheritance early, to invest in his own business instead of continuing in the family business his father and brother have worked for decades to secure. Now both are having to turn to their families they deserted and try to pick up the pieces of their lives.
I really enjoyed both the movie and the book. I do wish there was a happy ending for Lee though.
A nice, quick and easy read. Watching the movie was great as I got to see what the characters actually looked like.
I received this book free from Tyndale Publishers in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.



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Harvest of Rubies by Tessa Afshar

Harvest of Rubies by Tessa Afshar

My rating: 1 of 5 stars


The prophet Nehemiah's cousin can speak numerous languages, keep complex accounts, write on rolls of parchment and tablets of clay, and solve great mysteries. There is only one problem: she is a woman.

In her early childhood years, Sarah experienced the death of her mother and her father's subsequent emotional distance and she came to two conclusions: that God does not care about her, and that her accomplishments are the measure of her worth - the measure of her self.

Sarah, the talented scribe and cousin to Nehemiah, is catapulted into the center of the Persian court, working too many hours, rubbing elbows with royalty, and solving intrigues for the Queen. Ironically, it isn't failure but success that causes Sarah to lose her only source of external validation.

Sarah soon learns that she has something of worth to offer beyond her ability with languages and sums - her very being proves to be a blessing to others particularly the aristocrat, Darius, she was given to in marriage.

To be fair I didn't read this whole book. I was so repulsed and aggravated with the main characters, Sarah that I gave up in frustration!
I hate being only the 6th person to leave a book a 1 star rating but I could not find anything to love about this book other than maybe the references referring to her cousin, the prophet Nehemiah.

If you are looking for good biblical fiction I would recommend Tracy L. Higley or Francine Rivers.

I received this book free in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.



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