Love on the Line

Rural switchboard operator Georgie is proud of her independence in a man's world, which makes it difficult when the telephone company sends a man to look over her shoulder and become her supervisor.  Luke is more than he appears, however.  A Texas Ranger working undercover, he's after a gang of train robbers, and dealing with telephone wires and the difficult switchboard operator is not something he wants to be bothered with.  But when his work as a Ranger puts Georgie in danger, he must choose between his job and much more.

I usually enjoy Bethany House publications, and Love on the Line was a fun read; I learned a great deal about switchboard operations, no doubt!  One thing I really enjoy about historical fiction is the amount of research an author typically puts into their story.  As a preface to the book, author Deanne Gist thanks all the individuals at various museums and societies who helped her prepare for the book.  I had no idea there was a museum for things concerning switchboard operations.  Another fun bit about this book was that the setting was a town in rural Texas with German heritage.  Gist also explains some German traditions and even allows the characters to speak some German words and phrases.  Don't worry- if you don't speak any German, you'll still be able to figure out the meaning of the words through context.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

A Wedding Invitation

I'm back with some more book reviews!  I'm not normally a fan of modern fiction because I generally prefer historical fiction or classic literature.  However, I choose to review A Wedding Invitation by Alice J. Wisler since the main characters either worked in refugees in the Philippines in the 1980s or were refugees themselves.

Samanthan Bravencourt enjoys her quiet life in in Washington, D.C. after returning home from teaching English to refugees in the Philippines.  She receives an invitation to her college friend's wedding, she heads to North Carolina to celebrate and reconnect with old friends.  When the wedding turns out differently than she expects, a chance encounter leads her to Carson, a former fellow teacher in the Philippines who broke her heart.  Sam is soon forced to choose between her comfortable life and helping Lien, a young refugee girl who needs her help.  But helping the refugee girl will require working with Carson again, and Sam isn't sure if her heart could handle it.

What I liked about this book is that many people who read it may never have understood what a refugee is; after reading this story, perhaps they will be encouraged to learn more about refugees and their plights.  To me, the story was secondary to the issues highlighted about refugees.  The author apparently taught in the refugee processing center in the Philippines in the 80s; after learning that, I had a great deal of respect for her.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Forsaking All Others

Camilla Fox is rescued from a near-fatal snowstorm by Colonel Charles Brandon of the United States Army after she fled her home in an effort to escape from a faith she no longer called her own.  Eager to reunite with her daughters, Camilla tries to determine how she assure her children will not grow up with Mormon teachings.  Colonel Brandon offers his assistance, but as he begins to develop feelings for Camilla, she determines to return home to her mother's home and to continue her efforts to be reunited with her children.

I'll be honest, this book was uncomfortable and a little weird to read.  I don't think I've ever come across any type of historical fiction which addresses Mormonism and specifically, the issue of polygamy.  In the book, Camilla flees because she refuses to share her husband with a second wife.   I honestly am not that familiar with all the teachings of Mormonism and I don't think the author did a very good job explaining the basics of it.  She did, however, do an excellent job providing some interesting historical facts and Brigham Young and the building of the temple in Utah, but I still felt a bit lost and confused and not sure what bits of Mormon faith she includes to trust as accurate or dramatized.  I also was concerned that she develops this budding romance between Camilla and the Colonel when Camilla is still married; it was just a little uncomfortable at times. 

Apparently, this book is in a series called 'The Sister Wife Series'... honestly, I think the show about sister wives on cable is more than enough more me.  I don't plan on reading the other books. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers as part of their book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Out of Control

I just love when the mailman brings me a book from Bethany House Publishers to review.  They are the perfect Saturday afternoon read.  Recently, I received Out of Control by Mary Connealy; I don't think I've ever read anything by this author before, but I did enjoy reading this fun little book.

The story is that of Julia, a young woman who loves studying geology and other natural sciences.  Her home life isn't exactly the most comforting or consistent of places, so she finds her peace in long walks and studying the fossils and rock formations in the cave near her father's house.  But when someone steals the rope she uses to climb out of the cave, her world will be changed forever.

The man who owns the land where the cave is located returns to the cave one last evening to try to make his peace with the place which tore his family apart when he was just a boy.  As Rafe approaches the cave, he hears a woman crying for help and is forced to enter the cave where so many memories haunt him.  As Rafe and Julia try to track down the man who is lurking about Rafe's land, they eventually must choose between each other and their families.

It was an intriguing story, full of danger, humour, and even a little bit of history.  While at certain spots the writing style didn't seem consistent with the rest of the book, it flowed easily and the plot unfolded nicely.  It was definitely a good Saturday afternoon read!

I think this book is going to be the first in a series of stories about the women who marry the Kincaid men.  There are three brothers in the family, so I'm guessing the next story will be about the middle brother Ethan and then finally the youngest brother Seth.  You will probably be able to read the other two stories without reading this book first, but I'm guessing that it will help you understand the back story better if you start with Out of Control.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Louisville's Refugee Elder Program

Not a big post...just one to encourage you to check out the (relatively) new blog for Louisville's Refugee Elder Program!  We launched it in June, and we've already gotten hits from most of the US states and fourteen different countries!

Click on the picture to be taken to the blog:

To Win Her Heart

So you may have noticed I haven't posted in quite some time...I've been a bit distracted with life lately.  But autumn is fast-approaching, and I always feel a bit better when the rest of the world seems to return to a normal schedule.

I finished To Win Her Heart a long time ago, but then I lent it to a friend before I wrote the review.  Levi Grant, after serving a sentence for the unintentional crime he committed in his youth looks to begin again in the small town of Spencer, Texas.  The town needs a blacksmith, and Levi needs a place where no one knows his past.  Eden Spencer is the town's all-but-confirmed spinster; she chooses instead to devote her time to the library she runs in the town her father founded.  When the larger-than-life new blacksmith arrives, Eden begins to reconsider her decision in swearing off all men.  But as the truth about Levi's past is slowly revealed, he must find a way to win back the librarian's affections.

This is a super sweet story that will keep you engaged for beginning to end.  I'd never read anything by Karen Witemeyer, and it's definitely not a new style by any means.  But the book provides a nice escape from the pressures of today's world and beckons you back to a seemingly simpler time.  With just the right amount of snarky villanous characters, you'll be rooting for the hero the whole time.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Galileo

This must be my third or fourth book I've reviewed from the Christian Encounters series.  It really is one of my favourite series I've received from Thomas Nelson, and I hope the publishers continue to provide us with some more excellent biographies.

I think biographies generally get a bad rap for being rather boring, but the Christian Encounters series definitely gets it right.  I recently got to take a look at Galileo by Mitch Stokes.  Admittedly, I'm not a big science enthusiast, and I tend to get Galileo and Copernicus confused...but that's exactly why I should be reading books about science and scientists- to stretch my mind as much as possible.  Galileo's life was really more fascinating than I ever realised, and while I knew he faced difficulties with the church because of his theories (specifically, his stance on heliocentricity), I didn't understand the full extent of this controversy.  One of the coolest things I learned from this book: Galileo invented the pendulum clock!  I had no idea...but you can be sure the next time I visit the Smithsonian and watch the large pendulum clock swing back and forth, back and forth, back and forth...I'll be thinking of Galileo.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Africa Fundraiser: A Lia Sophia Party!

In case you didn't read this post, Isaac and I are headed to Swaziland, Africa this November to work with the organization Heart for Africa!  In order for us to go on the trip, we each need to raise $3,550 (by October).  In just a few short weeks, I'm hosting our first fundraiser: a Lia Sophia Party!

Lia Sophia is a great company which sells high fashion jewelry- at great prices!  It's a direct selling company so the Lia Sophia advisers (as they're called) show and sell the jewelry through home parties, online sales, and other events.  The hostess of the party typically gets several different great hostess benefits, including free and deeply discounted jewelry.  But instead of earning free jewelry for myself, our Lia Sophia party is going to earn funds for our Africa trip!  As an added bonus, the Lia Sophia advisor who is helping us with this fundraiser is going to donate her commission she would earn from the party, as well as the commission she would earn off any other party booked through our show!

Our Lia Sophia Party is Sunday, May 15th 2:00 pm at the Legacy Center at 2825 Lexington Road (on the SBTS campus).  Even if you don't live in the Louisville area or can't make it to the show, you can still help us get to Africa!  Here's how:

1. Go to this website: https://www.liasophia.com/sites/stephanielewis/catalog-intro
2. Under the 'Look up Your Hostess' tab, type 'Jenny Johnson'
3. Shop away!
4. Forward this to your family, friends, coworkers, as well as complete and utter strangers
5. Host a party (online and catalog shows count, too)!

Don't forget, you can always go to our fundraising page through Heart for Africa!  All donations through this website are tax deductible!

Too Rich for a Bride

It's always fun when the setting of a book you're reading is a place you've actually been.  It's not that the author needs help painting a picture of the setting in your mind- it's just a different dimension- not better, not worse than reading about a place to which you have never been.  I just finished Too Rich for a Bride by Mona Hodgson, set in the mining boom-town of Cripple Creek, Colorado.  I visited the town as a child when my family lived in Colorado Springs....I felt like I was in a time warp of sorts, so it wasn't too difficult for me to picture the town the way in would have looked in the late 1800s, when the story takes place.

Ida Sinclair is the eldest of four sisters; two of her sisters already live in Cripple Creek, and she plans to join them after she completes her business degree in Maine.  Once she arrives in Cripple Creek, she is determined to let nothing distract her from her goal of becoming a successful business woman- even if that means potentially comprising some of her ethics to make it in a 'man's world'.  The last thing she needs is the complication of a romantic relationship, but two of the town's eligible bachelors- the fashionable attorney and the mysterious traveling preacher- have both sets their sights on her.  With the addition of a landlady known for being the town matchmaker and two sisters who have already found love in the mining town, it will take all Ida has to focus on her career.

I was pleasantly surprised with this book; I actually read it in one day.  It's a quick read, but it's not as fluffy as I was anticipating.  Hodgson touches on some rather interesting issues- including business ethics, tuberculosis, and the early days of the stock market.  Apparently, Too Rich for a Bride is a follow-up to Two Brides Too Many, which follows the story of Ida's two sisters Kat and Nell, whom she joins in Cripple Creek.  The youngest sister Vivian still lives in Maine and is set to join everyone the following summer.  I'm guessing a third book will be appearing in the near future sharing with us Vivian's trek out West and her adjustment to Cripple Creek.  While Too Rich for a Bride is a follow-up, you can still read it without reading the first story (as I did), but there are a few events to which Hodgson alludes that most likely happened in the first book; if you can read the first book, it might give you a more complete picture of the Sinclair family and enhance your experience, but if you can only get your hands on the Too Rich for a Bride, by all means, read away!

Click here to download the first chapter of Too Rich for a Bride!  The book will be available May 3, 2011.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Multnomah as part of their Blogging for Books program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Amish Prayers

Most people know of Beverly Lewis's stories of the Amish community. I've enjoyed all of her books I've read; they are often more than just a simple fictional story. As you read her books, you begin to understand more about the Amish Order, its traditions, and the reason for their way of life. Indeed, you might just find yourself being convicted of your worldliness at some point- I know I've felt that way more than once when reading about a people who place little value in the things of this world. Yes, the Amish still have possessions and probably work hard so that they can have certain material items, but you don't see them rushing out to buy the latest fad in clothing or toys or whatever the category may be (probably because they aren't tempted by the television and other advertising). I'm not saying the Amish way of life is perfect, but I do think we can learn some valuable lessons from them.

The Amish and other Anabaptist groups have treasured the same book of prayers since it was first written in 1708. Die Ernsthafte Christenpflicht (Prayer Book for Earnest Christians) served as inspiration in both times of peace and persecution; the book has remained unchanged since its first printing.  Amish Prayers, compiled by Beverly Lewis, is an English translation from the original German.  The book is divided into several different sections, including "Prayers for a New Day", "Prayers of Repentance", and "Prayers for Strength".  There is something profoundly spiritual and connecting to pray specific prayers which have been prayed for centuries by countless believers.  In an all too often hurried world, these prayers remind us to slow down, to truly mediate on the Scriptures, and to focus on God and his provision in our lives.

Das Vaterunser

Unser Vater in dem Himmel!
Dein Name werde geheiliget.
Dein Reich komme.
Dein Wille geschehe auf Erden wie im Himmel.
Unser täglich Brot gib uns heute.
Und vergib uns unsere Schulden,
wie wir unsern Schuldigern vergeben.
Und führe uns nicht in Versuchung,
sondern erlöse uns von dem Übel.
Denn dein ist das Reich und die Kraft
und die Herrlichkeit in Ewigkeit.
Amen.

-Matthaeus 6:9-13 (Luther 1545)

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

For the Least of These...

In November, we will be traveling to Africa! Isaac and I will be going to Swaziland, a small country in sub-Saharan Africa to work with the organization Heart for Africa.

Many of you know that in graduate school, I tailored all of my research, papers, projects, and presentations to HIV/AIDS in Africa.  In fact, my master's thesis was designing a multi-faceted AIDS intervention program to be implemented in the small African country of Swaziland.  I spent countless hours researching the AIDS pandemic and its effects on the Swazi people, pouring over statistics that seemed too incredulous to be reality, and learning in just a very small way how the HIV/AIDS virus can devastate an entire nation.  And now, Lord willing, in seven months months Isaac and I will travel over 8,000 miles to see Swaziland and meet its people first hand.  To gain a greater understanding of the world and how many of its people live.  To grow in the knowledge that Christ has called us to be servants.

When I wrote my thesis over four years ago, I shed tears as I slowly pieced together a picture of the situation in Swaziland.  Recently, I pulled out my thesis and examined it again.  The statistics jumped off the page:

• Forty-one perfect of Swaziland's population is under the age of 15
• The average life expectancy at birth is 32 for men and 33 for women
• The HIV prevalence rate is 33 percent, the highest of any nation in the world
• Sixty thousand orphans reside in Swaziland

According to Heart for Africa, the average life expectancy is now 29.  Twenty-nine years old.  Isaac and I both turn twenty-nine this year.  There are now 200,000 orphans in a country the size of New Jersey, and the HIV prevalence rate is now 42 percent.  Fifteen thousand households are headed by orphans, and if the trend continues as it is, there will be no adults left in Swaziland by the year 2020.  This knowledge breaks our hearts; how can we understand this information and not be moved to action?  And while these numbers bring us to tears and leave us stunned, we cling to the hope that is graciously given by our Christ.  He knows the people of Swaziland; he loves them and cares for them.  And he is calling us to show his love for them.

We will keep you updated on the entire process of preparing and going to Swaziland to serve these beautiful people.  We covet your prayers as there are many things which require preparation before we can go and learn to serve others as our Savior serves us.  We both must raise $3,550- an overwhelming amount, to be sure- but not an unattainable amount through the grace of the Lord.  To begin raising the funds necessary to travel to Africa and serve the people of Swaziland, we have created a fundraising page through Heart for Africa (it currently links to Jenny's account, but once the money for one complete trip has been raised, we will change everything to an account for Isaac's trip):

Our Swaziland Fundraising Page

There is also a permanent link on the right-hand column under the heading "For the Least of These"; simply click on the picture, and you'll be taken to our fundraising site.  We are also planning on hosting some other fundraising events; if you have any ideas or would like to help us in any way, please feel free to let us know.  Most of all, we pray that our trip would be bathed in prayer as we seek to joyfully serve whom the world as deemed "the least of these."

Here Burns My Candle

WaterBrook Mulnomah recently updated their Blogging for Books program.  And let me tell you, it is now fabulous!  Not that it wasn't fabulous before, but it's just extra fabulous now.  It is one of the more user-friendly programs available, offering great technical assistance and really encouraging its bloggers to write quality reviews...which shouldn't be too difficult when you're reading quality books!  If you haven't visited their new page, do so now.  Right now.  Stop reading and click on this link.  After you've checked out their amazing program, come back and read my review of Here Burns My Candle by Liz Curtis Higgs.

I'm not sure how I've never read a book by Liz Curtis Higgs, considering how I seem to see them everywhere and have only heard good things about her writing.  At any rate, I decided to remedy the situation and recently finished Here Burns My Candle, a retelling of the story of Ruth- set in 18th century Scotland.  Not only is Ruth already one of my favourite books of the entire Bible, but I think that if done properly, retelling biblical themes and stories in modern or different eras can really reach an audience that may not ever have expressed interest in the Bible.  Take one look at Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers and you'll understand that the Lord can use books like that and Here Burns My Candle to grasp the hearts of people and draw them near to himself and his Word.

I read Here Burns My Candle in two days- and it only took me that long because I had to put it down to go to work, eat, and sleep (although I did forgo some sleep just to read a few more chapters).  The author does an amazing job of setting the scene of Edinburgh as bonny Prince Charlie and his army begin vying for the English throne.  The character development was astutely done; they felt like real people with flaws and imperfections and temperaments and the ability to change.  Truly, I started the story immediately disliking a particular character, but by the end, I was rooting for her like I was her biggest fan.

The story focuses on the Kerr family, Scottish nobility with secrets to hide.  One by one, the secrets begin to surface, and the family is forced to make a difficult decision between following their hearts and following what is safe.  Though the reader may not recognize the similarity to the book for Ruth at the beginning, when you turn the final page you truly begin to grasp the beginning of the story...because the end of the book is not the end of the story.  The Kerr women continue their journey of love, sorrow, and redemption in Mine is the Night.  I cannot wait to get my hands on that one!

Click here to read an excerpt of Here Burns My Candle.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Multnomah as part of their Blogging for Books program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” 

A Deeper Kind of Calm

I definitely think of NavPress as a leader in publishing some seriously good books- especially Bible studies.  I received A Deeper Kind of Calm by Linda Dillow, the author of Calm My Anxious Heart.  This is the first book by Dillow I've read, but after reading this book, I'm hoping it won't be my last.  Seriously, I would not be opposed to somehow adopting Dillow into our family.  Wisdom and humility flow from her pen and you cannot help but feel encouraged, rebuked, and ready for more of her teaching.

This book is focused on what faith looks like in times of trial.  Dillow is brutally honest about how the Christian life is not always the happy-go-lucky experience we wish it to be.  She shares her struggles, not just in general terms, but in specific details, adding to the transparency and authenticity of her teaching.  She takes the reader through a few specific 'steps' (although this is not a checklist book) of faith in difficulty:

• Remembering what God has done (Psalm 77)
• Hiding in his presence (Psalm 46)
• Clinging to him (Psalm 63)
• Praising him for all we cannot see (Psalm 84)

At the end of the book, a four-week Bible study is also included.  I would recommend this book to every woman- not just if you feel you are in a time of sorrow and pain at the moment- but to everyone because we have all either been or will go through a valley of weeping at some point in our lives...perhaps several valleys, in fact.  Understanding that the Lord can use our time in such a valley to draw us closer to him is a valuable lesson- and one we should learn sooner rather than later.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress Publishers as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Girl in the Gatehouse

I'll be honest.  I get really excited when I look in my inbox and see that Bethany House Book Reviewers program has sent me an email.  For some reason, they seem to have some of the absolute best historical fiction available.  So much so, that it's really hard for me to choose which book I want to read and review for them!

I finally whittled my decision down to The Girl in the Gatehouse by Julie Klassen.  When I received the book, I new I was going to enjoy it when I read the little blurb on the back cover about the author.  I quote: "Julie Klassen loves all things Jane- Jane Eyre and Jane Austen."  I mean, be still my beating heart!  But onto the book...

The Girl in the Gatehouse is the story of Mariah Aubrey, a young woman banished from her home because of a secret in her past.  She seeks refuge in an abandoned gatehouse at the estate of a distant relative and begins supporting herself and her loyal servant in a most unlady-like way: writing novels.  Several months after she settles into her new home at the gatehouse, Captain Matthew Bryant leases the estate, determined to impress and win the woman who rejected him years before.  But as he learns more about the mysterious girl in the gatehouse, he begins to piece together Mariah's past and is faced with the decision to befriend a woman shadowed by scandal or risk the love of the another woman- the one whose love he has coveted for years.

This book was a light and fun read.  Indeed, it was written very much in a Jane Austen-esqe style, and since it is set as Austen's contemporary, the author even made some allusions to Austen herself, without making it seem like an anachronism.  There is more to the book except the central love story, and the author does an excellent job of developing the characters relatively quickly- especially some of the supporting characters.  While there are some aspects of the story that are a bit more hard to believe, I don't mind those a bit since it is, after all, fiction.  I recommend this book if you're a fan of Jane Austen, as it presents a good picture of the society in which she lived.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

The Charlatan's Boy

The cover of The Charlatan's Boy by Jonathan Rogers reminds you of a circus.  I was intrigued by the cover and the description of the book, and thinking it would be pretty interesting, I was looking forward to the story. 

As long as he can remember, orphan Grady has gone from village to village as part of a circus show with Floyd, a verified cheat.  Together, the pull hoaxes up and down the countryside as their way of earning a living.  Grady as touted as the 'Wild Man of the Feechiefen Swamp', but no one believes in feechies anymore...until Floyd makes them believe.  Trick after trick and lie after lie, Grady begins to wonder if he'll ever find out who he really is.

While I liked the concept Rogers was aiming at, I just couldn't get into this book.  I was pushing myself along almost the entire way, forcing myself to read it.  I found myself often putting the book down in favor of a different story.  I'm not really sure I found it so hard to involve myself in the characters, but I never became attached to any of them- even the main character!  Perhaps if I read this book at a different time, I would be able to enjoy it more (that happens sometimes).  I wouldn't say that I don't recommend it, but you do need to be in the right frame of mind before beginning the journey with Rogers.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Multnomah as part of their Blogging for Books program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

My Foolish Heart

My Foolish Heart is the story of small-town girl Isadora who spends her nights as Miss Foolish Heart, the host of a syndicated talk radio show.  While her neighbors and friends in her town have no idea Issy is the host of the famous talk show, viewers tune in to hear her advice on dating, searching for the perfect man, and falling in love.  If the truth were to be known- that she's never really done any of those things- Isadora's talk show ratings might plummet.  But her ratings actually soar when she seems to be falling in love on air with a caller- one that she doesn't realize lives right next door to her.

Caleb served a tour of duty in Iraq, paying a high price when he was injured.  He moves to a small town hoping to avoid pity while he hides his disability.  He aims to land his dream job as the high school football coach.  When his pretty neighbor catches his eye, he makes a brash decision to call into the radio show My Foolish Heart, searching for help.  Soon he finds himself confused: is he falling for his neighbor or in fact, Miss Foolish Heart?

This was a cute story written by Susan May Warren.  I finished it rather quickly, as the story was well-written and a fun read.  Even though the overall tone of the book was light, there definitely was some heavier themes- including PTSD and death- addressed throughout the pages.  For the most part, the author was aware of these issues and addressed them appropriately.  Warren also did a really good job of developing the secondary characters of the story and weaved the four main characters' lives together beautifully.  I recommend this short read if you want to experience the gamut of emotions but still feel as through you've unwound with a good book.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers as part of their book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Code of Justice

Author Liz Johnson offered to send me her new book Code of Justice to review, and anticipating I would read the book while sitting for hours on end in the jury pool, I was beyond excited to read and review the story (I ended up reading the entire book before I even got to the jury pool).

Code of Justice is a 'love-inspired suspense' novel which follows FBI Agent Heather Sloan as she tries to solve the mystery surrounding her sister's death involving a helicopter crash.  Heather survived the crash, and her sister's final words shake Heather to the core; when Sheriff's deputy Jeremy is assigned to the case, Heather convinces him they should work together on the case and together they begin to put together the pieces of her sister's death.

The book held my interest, but probably the most memorable moment of the book was when I finished a particular chapter ending with the words, "YOUR DEAD."  Of course, being the grammar freak I am, I immediately thought, "What?!?  You're telling me the author, the editor, the publisher, the random person in the building where the book was printed- all of them didn't notice that glaring error?"  I almost book the book down at that point (lame, I know), but I decided to continue onto the next page, and there my hope was restored.  One of the characters made a comment alluding to the poor spelling and grammar!  Instantly, the character was endeared to my heart more than any other; it's like the author had a private joke with the ridiculous readers (like myself) who notice grammar and spelling issues. 

This book is a good little read if you need a break from your long day.  It doesn't require the brainwave activity like Tolstoy or Dickens does, but it is fun just for pure escapism... and there are definitely some suspenseful moments- so don't read at night when you're alone!  Don't forget to check out the author's website too!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Money and Marriage

I received Money and Marriage: A Complete Guide for Engaged and Newly Married Couples by Matt Bell from NavPress Publishers Blogger Review Program just the other day and simply gobbled it up!  When I requested this particular book, I wasn't expecting to learn any new information from Bell.  And while the vast majority of the book was information I already knew, the way in which Bell presented everything- from the financial principles to the biblical foundations behind them- was wonderfully fresh and renewing.  There was also some information I about which I was very excited to learn; there were some financial issues about which I've always been just a little bit confused- even after much research- but Bell dispelled common misconceptions and offered clarity on a number of financial matters.

The book would be an excellent gift or any engaged couple or even newly-married couple.  While I realize that the typical engaged couple already has a ton of adjustments to make and many things to ponder, finances should not be one which they skip!  It may be an awkward and uncomfortable conversation to begin, but it is definitely a necessary one.  Bell offers some great diagnostic tools so that you can learn about your spouse's 'money personality', how you can understand one another, and how you can work together to determine the financial state of your union.

I also admire Bell's determination to keep biblical foundations concerning finances at the heart of the book.  By turning the focus back to God and less on ourselves, Bell helped the Spirit to bring about a fresh sense of conviction and renewal.

I'm a typical seminary wife and am always trying to come up with more ways to save money and manage our finances better; I quickly found that the same information is repeated over and over through a variety of mediums.  Setting financial goals, paying down debt, and saving money can quickly become another chore which I begrudge, but after reading Bell's words, I am encouraged to keep at it!  I'll be keeping this book close at hand so I can refer to it when I need a little bit more encouragement and help in financial matters.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress Publishers as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Unshackled and Growing by Dr. Nabeel T. Jabbour

I recently found this book buried among all the other books which make their home by my bed.  I realized that NavPress sent me this book to review several months ago and it somehow got lost among our hoards of books...I hope NavPress will continue to let me review for them after this muck up...

I originally requested to review Unshackled and Growing by Dr. Nabeel T. Jabbour because I'm very interested in North Africa, and I also work with several Muslims.  I thought this book might be interesting to read since it's geared toward Muslims who are seeking to learn more about Jesus and not necessarily towards Christians who want to share their faith with Muslims.

Since I've never been a Muslim, I can't speak to how this book can speak to those of the Islamic faith, but I can say that I learned a great deal from this book.  Jabbour lays out basic biblical knowledge, explaining historical information and how events in the Bible relate to events in Islam.  He uses Arabic words to help convey the meanings of several important concepts.  And he pleads with the reader to believe in Jesus as the Saviour.  I would recommend this book to others- especially if you think you may work with Muslims in the future.  It will definitely give you an insight into what they may be thinking when you approach them with Christianity.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress Publishers as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

I've Been a Bit of a Slacker...

I'm sure some of you noticed I've been pretty absent from the blog-o-sphere in 2011.  I apologize to any of you who have been sitting on the edge of your seats biting your fingernails wondering what's happened to poor little 'ole me (insert sarcasm here).

I'm not exactly sure what happened to my blogginess this year, but I do know that this little break was good for me.  I decided some weeks ago to create a 'family' blog; we know that it will be a good way to keep our friends and family updated with photos, videos, and words once we're overseas.  Since I was working on that one, this blog kinda fell off the radar...but I'm not wanting to have a bazillion blogs aimed at different targeted interests, so two will be my limit.

I still plan on writing on this blog; hopefully my little slice of the world wide web will allow me to express my creativity...whatever little of that I may have left.  I'll keep doing book reviews, share some serious funny photos I find throughout the week, and of course continue to share delightful clips from various British television shows.  And oh yes, I think a face lift for this site is definitely in order, don't you think?

So stick with me folks, but if you're wanting some updates on what's going on our life, hop on over to our family blog: http://www.isaacandjenny.blogspot.com/

And for now, please enjoy the musical genius that is The Civil Wars.  I'm not kidding when I say genius: this duo ranks up there with Mumford & Sons, who as you will recall, are pretty near musical perfection.

Voices of the Faithful: Book 2

It's been quite some time since I reviewed a book for Thomas Nelson, but this book has got to be one of my favourites!  Voices of the Faithful: Book 2 is a compilation of daily devotions written by Christians serving around the globe.  The devotions are short- less than a page- and contain a focal Scripture and a short prayer at the end; there is a different devotion each day of the year (yes, there is even one for February 29th).

The stories told and the lessons shared throughout these pages are amazing; these are the people who have dedicated their lives to sharing the Good News with people around the world.  Some of the missionaries are working with unreached people groups, in hostile environments, in economically-deprived areas; some are working with the overchurched, in wealthy areas, and lands where cynicism abounds.  Regardless of where the missionaries live and serve, each and every one of them understands that the people with whom they work need Jesus- no matter their background, religion, or economic status.  Reading this devotional helps you to catch a glimpse of God's heart for the nations.  I highly recommend this devotional- use it personally, as a family, or in a small group!

It's also pretty awesome when one of your best friends has an entry in the book!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

A New Jane Eyre Movie

And even though there had been several Jane Eyre adaptations, I am most excited to see yet another one!