World View by Marvin Olasky

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World View: Seeking Grace and Truth in Our Common Life (New Growth Press, November 2017)

How could our world be different if Christians were recognized for not only speaking the truth, but also demonstrating mercy?

What would our lives be like if we reacted to our common culture with not just biblical facts, but also grace and compassion?

For more than 25 years, Marvin Olasky has offered this kind of viewpoint in his columns as the Editor-in-Chief of World Magazine, the leading news magazine written with a Christian perspective. In this collection of far-ranging columns, Olasky’s commentary on world events and affairs, as well as his own personal interactions, encourages readers to respond with both grace and truth in every encounter.

A leading voice for standing for biblical truth in the public square, Olasky also believes Christians should incorporate the biblical virtues of humility, kindness, and mercy in all of life. His call for biblical values to include both truth and mercy makes his voice stand out in a world that often falsely divides those goals and settles for a poor imitation of the robust Christianity described in Scripture. These short and punchy columns offer readers a new way to consider challenges in today’s world and shows them how to respond to any encounter biblically, but not hysterically, providing a wake-up call for the complacent, while also calming the frantic.

My opinion: This is an utterly fascinating book filled with wisdom, wit and insight. I love how the author stands up for Biblical truths but in such a way that is both warm and gentle, not in your face and he encourages his readers to do the same. Complied from articles written by Martin since 1996 this book covers such a large scope of issues and it is interesting to see how relevant they are in today's world. Well written and easy to read this book is very engaging and is much needed in the world we live in today. I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Gospel Centered Mom by Brooke McGlothlin

This book is such a good reminder about what is really important in life, especially when it comes to being a Mother and not feeling adequate. Too often it is easy to feel like you are failing as a Mom but this book is an important reminder that in and of ourselves we are not enough,but God is and he can more than supply where we are lacking.This book is so freeing in the reminder that it is not all on us because we will fail but that God is by our side every step of the way.
Such an encouraging and well written read, I know if helped me shift my focus from myself to the Lord.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Pass it On by Champ Thornton

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Pass It On: A Proverbs Journal for the Next Generation (New Growth Press, October 2017)

Let Scripture reform the next generation.

There are many different kinds of legacies we can leave, but sharing yourself and your faith with the next generation will always stand the test of time. Through showing himself and his wisdom in the book of Proverbs, God has also left his legacy with us and relies on us to share it with our children and grandchildren. But before we can share that wisdom, first we must grow in our own understanding and knowledge and record, reflect, and consider what we have learned.

Pass it On provides readers with an opportunity to create a legacy of wisdom and faith and to share it with their children and grandchildren. As readers are guided through the book of Proverbs, they are asked to create their own personalized, wisdom journal with the aim of giving it to someone they love. Through careful study, answering questions, writing out prayers, and sharing personal stories, readers can create a lasting keepsake for themselves and for their families and friends.

Created by Champ Thornton, best-selling author of The Radical Book for Kids, Pass It On is an innovative resource to strengthen families and help them grow in their love for God and each other. This is a perfect gift for an older and wiser friend or relative, so they can share themselves and what they have learned about God with the next generation.

The fresh and careful translation provided comes from Dr. Bruce Waltke, who, now in his eighties, has devoted his life to a humble and Christ-focused study of God s Word, and especially the book of Proverbs. His two-volume work on Proverbs is considered by many as the premier commentary in the English language. As you study the translation of individual chapters, add your own comments in the margins. And feel free to circle, underline, and connect key words or phrases as you see them in the chapter for the day

My opinion: I am huge into journaling and try to be as diligent in it as possible so this book had a huge appeal to me and did not disappoint. This book is not only gorgeous but would make an amazing keepsake for generations to come!  Filled with thought provoking questions and rich insight this book has a lot of information that can really help one grow as an individual and as a family, I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

The Gift by Shelley Shepard Gray

A special Christmas story about love and blessings in the next book in the Amish of Hart County series

The Schwartz family is happy to be spending Christmas on their new farm in Hart County. But when Susanna Schwartz hears gunshots that causes her buggy to overturn, and then her little sister falls through a wooden bridge into the icy creek, it becomes clear from these dangerous “accidents” that someone wants them gone.

Neil Vance has been heartbroken ever since his parents lost their family farm. He knows it’s not the Schwartz family’s fault, but he can’t help but be resentful. Until he meets Susanna. She is kind-hearted and bold, and Neil can’t stop thinking about her pretty green eyes.

Neil thinks the accidents are just that, but Susanna’s father is convinced the Vance family is responsible. Susanna refuses to believe Neil would do anything to harm her. She’s fallen in love with him and knows he is a good man. But her family is ready to pack up and move, and time is running out to uncover the truth before someone gets hurt . . . or worse.

My opinion: Yet another riveting read by the Queen of Amish fiction and suspense. I loved this heartwarming story of Neil and Susanna who need to overcome their prejudices and background to find out the truth behind the accidents that are turning more deadly. This is a quick and easy read that is enjoyable and fun, keeping you on the edge of your seat until the very end. I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Color Index Xl

This such a great resource for designers and artist alike, with such detail and precision this book is such an in depth and amazing resource to have on hand if you work with colors.
I loved how this book provided. I loved how each palette showed 5 colors which was a just right without being too overwhelming.
I also loved how there was a short section on color theory, what an utterly fabulous book!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Courage for the unknown season by Jan Silvious

This book is for anyone who has found themselves in a difficult or unknown season in their life, one they never planner for or wanted and yet here you are. I think that is really most of us, life rarely goes the way we plan or want at times and this book is encouragement for those season.I love how the author is able to bring some principles that apply to such a wide range of situations, even though everyone is different and will face different challenges.
Written with warmth and in a very engaging style this book is sure to resonate with a wide array of readers and leave one encouraged and able to find courage for the unknown.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

He holds my hand by Carol Kent

What a insightful and encouraging read from a women who has gone through so much. You can really tell that Carol Kent went through a very trying time that caused her to heavily rely on God who was able to see her through her darkest days, the fruition of this pain and suffering is evident in this book that helps calm and bring peace to the readers as they go through this absolutely captivating and heartfelt devotional.
Despite being short pages for each day this book really packs a lot into the daily devotionals and leave one with a lot to ponder.
This book is a gentle and constant reminder that God is with us no matter what we are going through and this book is full of so much encouragement and love.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Murder in Disguise by Donn Taylor

Murder in Disguise (Lamplighter Mysteries, October 2017)

Official verdict: Suicide.

But why would that vigorous department chairman kill himself? To avoid disgrace? Those rumored ventures on the dark side? Some other secret life? Visiting professor Preston Barclay wonders. But his questions bring no answers, only anonymous threats. He has enough problems already, proving himself on a strange campus while radical faculty do all they can to undermine him. Worse yet, that sexy siren assigned as his assistant complicates his courtship of the beautiful Mara Thorn.

While Press keeps asking questions, Mara’s research reveals a cancer of criminal activity that permeates the community and even the campus itself. The more Press questions, the more dangerous the threats against him become, and the more determined he grows to clear his friend’s name.

But can Press and Mara’s stumbling efforts prevail against the entrenched forces of the police, the campus radicals, and an unseen but powerful criminal organization that increasingly puts their lives in danger…?

My opinion: Having read the previous books in this series I was eager to continue the adventures of Press and Mara as they investigate yet another suspicious death that has been ruled out as suicide. As they get closer to the truth the find there is a lot more going on than meets the eye and are hopeful to catch the killer before it is too late. Filled with plenty of mystery, romance and nail biting suspense this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

She's got the wrong guy by Deepak Reju

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She’s Got the Wrong Guy: Why Smart Women Settle(New Growth Press)

The control freak. The angry man. The lazy guy. The unteachable guy. The promiscuous man. The unbeliever. The lone ranger. The unchurched guy. The new convert. The commitment-phobe.

For any woman who has struggled with failed relationships, this may seem like a familiar list. These are the men your friends and family have in mind when they think, “she’s with the wrong guy.” And while the reasons women choose these types of men are complicated and varied, ultimately, they will all let you down.

In She’s Got the Wrong Guy, Deepak Reju offers a different kind of dating book, discussing the types of guys women should not marry and offering biblical reasons why they aren’t suitable spouses. Writing from his years of experience as a pastor and counselor, Reju shares with women his perspective on how to assess a relationship’s strengths from the beginning, how to identify possible pitfalls, and how to have the courage to wait for a relationship that will be a blessing for both of you. Using stories that single women can relate to and highlighting contemporary issues in the modern world of dating, Reju gives readers clear, biblical direction on how to have positive, life-giving relationships with members of the opposite sex.

With a strong, Christ-centered focus, women will better understand why they “settle” for less than what God intends for their romantic relationships and learn to put their hopes and find their happiness in Jesus, not marriage.

My opinion: I am pretty sure all of us know someone who has settled for the wrong guy or maybe you are that person who is in a less than stellar relationship. This book is perfect for anyone who has struggled with failed relationships and have wondered why, the author does a great job at describing various kinds of men out there, what their tendencies are and why they are best to be avoided. Filled with great wisdom and insight this book is an amazing dating resource and is a great reminder that you don't have to settle! I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Rescued hearts by Hope Dougherty

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Rescued Hearts (Mantle Rock Publishing, September 2017)

Children’s clothing designer Mary Wade Kimball’s soft spot for animals leads to a hostage situation when she spots a briar- entangled kitten in front of an abandoned house. Beaten, bound, and gagged by the two thugs inside, Mary Wade loses hope for escape when a third villain returns with supplies.

Discovering the kidnapped woman ratchets the complications for undercover agent Brett Davis. Weighing the difference of ruining his three months’ investigation against the woman’s safety, Brett forsakes his mission and helps her escape, the bent-on-revenge brutes following behind.

When Mary Wade’s safety is threatened once more, Brett rescues her again. This time, her personal safety isn’t the only thing in jeopardy. Her heart is endangered as well.

My opinion: This book was utterly engaging and well written, it really sucks you in and keeps you enthralled until the very end. I loved watching the two main characters interact and grow in their feelings for one another, it was such a sweet romance that I loved every minute of! With just the right amount of romance and intrigue this book was a fantastic read that I highly recommend! I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

The Daily Question: My 5 year Spiritual Journal

What fun book! I am big into keeping a journal anyways but this book adds some variety and thought to ones journal keeping.I like how this book is insightful without being overwhelming. I can only do so much journal keeping with a little one underfoot and yet this book breaks it down to where it is doable and fun, not too much and not too little. This can be as vague or as detailed as you want it to be.
This would make a wonderful gift as well as a great keepsake for yourself.
I received this book in exchange for my honest opinion

Total Christmas Makeover: 31 Devotions to Celebrate with Purpose by Melissa Spoelstra

Total Christmas Makeover: 31 Devotions to Celebrate with Purpose (Abingdon Press, October 2017)

Give your Christmas a makeover with this practical approach to help your family learn what it means to truly celebrate their Savior.

In the bustle of the Christmas season, it can be easy to get swept up in all of the things to do. But it’s important to pause and remember that our priority should be to spend time celebrating Christ’s birth and not forget to invite Jesus to his own party.

Christmas is far more than a celebration of an event from long ago or a modern holiday centered around shopping. Mindfully take time to listen to how God continues to speak through the Christmas story as the Gospel narratives centered around the birth of Jesus provide encouragement and revelation concerning the love of God and his wisdom for us today.

In Total Christmas Makeover, author and Bible teacher Melissa Spoelstra provides a practical approach for you and your family to turn your attention toward God’s grace day-by-day as you prepare for Christmas. This 31-day devotional presents key scriptures, ideas to implement with each reading, and questions for reflection to guide you in rediscovering rituals, relationship, and rest to connect you more deeply with Christ this holiday season.

My opinion: What a perfect book to get ones thought where they should be directed during the holiday season. This delightful book is an easy to read, enjoyable devotion that is perfect to gear up for Christ's birth and not get so caught up in everything else that goes with the holiday season. I love the ideas for activities you can do and ways to make Christmas more meaningful, this book is one you can read over and over again.

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Descriptions and Prescriptions by Michael Emlet

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Descriptions and Prescriptions: A Biblical Perspective on Psychiatric Diagnoses and Medications(New Growth Press, October 2017)

OCD, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder . . . these are no longer just technical terms and medical diagnoses, they are part of our common vocabulary and culture.

As Christians, we shouldn’t isolate ourselves from this discussion or dismiss these important issues. But we also should be careful not to accept the entire secular psychiatric diagnostic and treatment enterprise without question. What we need is a balanced, biblically (and scientifically) informed approach that neither blindly accepts nor harshly dismisses psychiatric labels, diagnoses, and medicines that are prescribed to help those who are suffering.

As both a Biblical counselor and medical doctor, Michael R. Emlet, MD, gives readers a Christ-centered approach to psychiatry and guides both lay and professional helpers through the thicket of mental health labels and treatments with a biblical lens. In a clear and thoughtful way that puts the person experiencing mental health issues at the forefront, Emlet uses Scripture to show how the Bible engages in the discussion of psychiatric labels and the medications that are often recommended based on those labels. The first book in the “Helping the Helper” series, Descriptions and Prescriptions will give readers a biblical, gospel-formed perspective to help them understand and minister to those struggling with mental health issues.

My opinion: I was eager to read this book as it is written by a MD who is a Christian so it was a great book that balanced biblical and scientific approaches to form a very insightful and thoughtful book. Too often these kind of issues get swept under the rug, but Mr. Emlet takes this tough issue head on and does so in a very thoughtful and engaging manner that really gets one thinking. I like how there is a good amount of information without being too overwhelming.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Kirsten Kish Cooking

Though I did not know anything abut Kristen Kish this book was not only a fabulous cookbook but an inspiring story as well. Kristen has done a lot in her life and has come a long ways from a Korean orphan to a becoming winner of the 10th season of Top Chef.
I was impressed by this cookbook and the vast array of recipes and techniques that are sure to delight chefs both experienced and not so experienced. There are so many familiar recipes with a unique  twist as well as new and innovative recipes as well.
This book is gorgeous and such an amazing cookbook, great to have on your shelf or give as a gift!
I received this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

A woman overhwelmed by Hayley DiMarco

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A Woman Overwhelmed: Finding God in the Messes of Life (Abingdon Press, August 2017)

“A Woman Overwhelmed” is a phrase with which many women can relate.

But what would happen if we could see the insanity in our pace and embrace our overwhelming God?

There is a reason they say that a woman’s work is never done— because it isn’t! As women, we often are overwhelmed by the demands and circumstances of life, resulting in stress, fear, worry, impatience, fatigue, frustration, and even depression. The truth is that we were created to be overwhelmed . . . not by life but by God! When we learn to be overwhelmed by God, the fruit in our lives goes from rotten to fragrant—filling our days with peace, hope, love, and joy.

In A Woman Overwhelmed, best-selling author Hayley DiMarco shares biblical insights and personal stories to offer a glimpse at the comedy of an overwhelmed life while encouraging us to discover the depths and heights of God’s love and power.

Be empowered to find freedom in becoming overwhelmed with who God is—by learning to focus on what we know about God so that we can hold onto faith even when it seems that all is lost. For it is when an overwhelmed woman gives up the mission of me and exchanges it for the mission of God that being overwhelmed becomes a good thing.

Choose to bask in the abundance of the Father instead of the abundance of life as his unfathomable depths can surely replace our fathomable messes.

My opinion: This book really spoke to me because too often I am overwhelmed by everything I do or feel overwhelmed by all of the things I should be doing. I love how this book talks about instead of being overwhelmed with life, which let's face it is so easy to do, we should be instead overwhelmed by God.
Filled with rich Biblical insight, personal stories and encouragement this book is an excellent read and left me feeling very encouraged and uplifted, ready to not only face another day but to live it to the fullest,
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my personal opinion.

A forest, a flood and an unlikely star by J.A. Myhre