“A Match Made in Texas”

Posted on January 26, 2014 by Becky

Book Cover A Match Made in TexasThis is a collection of four novellas all set in 1893 Texas.  They are:  “A Cowboy Unmatched” by Karen Witemeyer, “An Unforeseen Match” by Regina Jennings, “No Match for Love” by Carol Cox  and “Meeting Her Match” by Mary Connealy.  Each story tells a very different tale of how love blossoms between four different couples.

These stories include:

A poor widow whose wealthy father-in-law is terrorizing her, and wanting to lay claim to her unborn child.  All the while she is living is little more than a flimsy shack in the middle of nowhere.

A young teacher who suddenly loses her sight, and is left to unhappily live off the charity of the town people.  She believes the answer to her plight is to place an ad for a husband the way men have advertised for mail-order-brides.

A once rich young woman whose father dies suddenly, finds her dad’s riches were unwisely invested, and she is left penniless.  Since she never received any sort of training even in household duties, her future seems unsure.  One man in town wants to marry her, but he makes her skin crawl, and he stalks her every move.

A school teacher who has been taking care of everyone else, suddenly finds herself abandoned by her family and living in a tiny dingy, room without prospects for anything better.  She refuses to marry anyone who is not a Christian believer.  The only young single, Christian in town wants nothing to do with her.

Everyone of these stories are completely different, but all are clean and told from a Christian point of view.  Each one is very entertaining, and catches the reader’s attention right from the start.  The first three involve a mystery person who sets circumstances in motion that ultimately brings the couples together.  The third story hints at the identity of that person, with the reveal given in the forth story.

I am not always a fan of novellas, but “A Match Made in Texas” kept my interest, and I really liked it.  They were such a delight that I plan to search for more stories by these authors.  It was enjoyable to “catch up” with more details about the first three characters in the last tale in this book.  Since I am a mystery lover, I wish the reveal of the good Samaritan would have been drawn out longer in the last story, that way the mystery could have lasted longer.  However, it was a good tale, with a different twist!   I recommend this collection, especially to all romance lovers.  This story deserves fives stars in the romance category.

The publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book through Bethany House Publishing for the purpose of review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I have not been compensated in any other manner. Despite my receiving the book free, it has not influenced my judgment, and I have given an honest opinion.

Author Information about  Karen Witemeyer

Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/KarenWitemeyersAuthorPage

Website:  http://www.karenwitemeyer.com/

Author Information about  Regina Jennings

Twitter:  @reginajennings

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ReginaLJennings

Website:  http://www.reginajennings.com

 Author Information about Carol Cox

Twitter:  @AuthorCarolCox

Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/carol.cox

Website:  http://www.authorcarolcox.com

Author Information about  Mary Connealy

Twitter:  @maryconnealy

Facebook:  http://facebook.com/maryconnealyfanpage/

Website:  http://www.maryconnealy.com

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

My Perspective: “Miss Brenda and the Loveladies” by Brenda Spahn and Irene Zutell

Posted on January 16, 2014 by Becky

Book Cover Miss Brenda and the Loveladies 2This is a true story about a very successful career woman, Brenda Spahn, who suddenly starts working with women prisoners.  She doesn’t have any experience.  She only knows she feels impressed by God to do this, and to do it from a Christian perspective.

At first, Brenda doesn’t know what she has gotten herself into.  As time goes on, Brenda begins caring more and more about helping the women, and less about making money.  This is completely opposite of the way she has lived her life up to that point.

In this book, we follow Brenda from someone who has lots of worldly possessions, to someone who cares less about material things, and more about getting shelter and a new start for these ladies, whom she calls Loveladies.   The first time she takes a group to Walmart will bring tears to your eyes.

As Brenda’s heart and mind changes, she is truly shocked to find other people in the world don’t want to be around her Loveveladies.  Brenda is stunned when neighbors attempt to have the home she uses to minister to these women closed down.  Her neighbors even bring criminal charges against Brenda that could lead to her going to jail.

Brenda ends up in a battle against her neighbors, as well as, friends and family members who do not understand the passion she develops for her work.  She opens up her home, her heart and literally her closets to these women.  As time goes on, she empties out most of her bank account to this cause.

Readers should be aware there is some coarse language and adult situations described in this book.  Despite that, this is an uplifting story of Brenda Spahn’s life, and the lives of many of the Loveladies.   The stories of changed lives are incredible.  Brenda is a likable lady, who has so much energy, she practically jumps off the pages of this book.  She is careful to give God all the credit for the success she has had with people, and getting the material things she has needed to help them. Brenda also credits God for giving her the courage during the times she has felt she may have gotten into situations that were “too deep.”  This is a five star story, and I highly recommend it.

The publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book through WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for the purpose of review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I have not been compensated in any other manner.

Author Information: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?isbn=9780307732170

Lovelady Center:  http://loveladycenter.org/Miss_Brenda_and_the_Loveladies.html

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/LoveladyCenter

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

“The Reason for My Hope: Salvation” by Billy Graham

Posted on January 10, 2014 by Becky

Book Cover The Reason For My HopeBilly Graham very clearly writes how belief in Jesus has given him peace, even in the midst of a society that is seemingly crumbling around us.  This book gives many examples from life today:   the scary, empty things that preoccupy life in our culture or the instances of tragic happenings that have become so prevalent that they are almost common place.  He notes that even non-religious writers and news casters have commented that our world seems to be “going crazy.”

Dr. Graham ponders why our society pays so much money for movies and entertainment that frightens us and leaves us feeling hollow, yet rejects the good news of Christianity that offers hope, peace and a wonderful future.  He has a very real concern for all people who are not followers of Christ, for he believes the end times the Bible refers to are fast approaching.  Billy Graham wants everyone to receive the free gift of salvation by following Jesus, along with the peace and heavenly rewards that go with that decision.

This book also includes Dr. Graham’s testimony of his complete belief in God, and how his life has been the richer for it.  The importance of faith is stressed, and Billy Graham talks about his own.   He also stresses that all the religions of the world have a place that their religious founder is buried, all accept for Christianity.  There is no burial plot for Jesus because he did not stay buried, but rose to life again.  Jesus’ empty tomb offers proof of eternal life to all who will believe.

The last chapter is devoted to what it means to be a Christian.  Dr. Graham explains that becoming a believer in Christ involves commitment.  He emphasizes that one must “count the cost” when making the decision to follow Jesus Christ.  At the end, an example is given of the type of prayer to say if one wants to make the commitment, and follow Christ.

Enjoy this five star book!  Dr. Graham has poured his heart into it, and is genuinely concerned for every person on this planet.  It is geared for everyone, is very readable and I highly recommend it.

The publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book through Thomas Nelson Publishing for the purpose of review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I have not been compensated in any other manner.  Despite my receiving the book free, it has not influenced my judgment, and I have given an honest opinion.

Contact Information:  Billy Graham Evangelistic Association

1 Billy Graham Parkway

Charlotte, NC  28201

Author’s website:  http://myhopewithbillygraham.org/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/MyHopeWithBillyGraham?filter=1

Twitter:  http://www.twitter.com/MyHope

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“Why Still Care About Israel” by Sandra Teplinsky

Posted on December 12, 2013 by Becky

Book Cover Why Still Care About IsraelThis book is about the terrible history of injustice and discrimination Israel has suffered down through the ages up until the present day.   Replacement theology is also discussed. It is the idea that all the promises made to Israel in the Old Testament have been transferred to Christians–that Israel is no longer the chosen people of God.  That mind-set has allowed the world to look at the Jewish people as no longer important–and has been used to rationalize atrocious behavior toward Jewish people, and the nation of Israel.

Many modern churches think they should not witness to Jews.  Instead, the Jewish people will be “saved” through the Old Testament covenant they had with God. Other Christian churches blame the Jewish people for all manner of things, and believe the Jews and Israel should suffer.

Ms. Teplinsky  brings up the promise God made to Abraham in Genesis 12:2-3:

“I will make you into a great nation,
and I will bless you;
I will make your name great,
and you will be a blessing.
3 I will bless those who bless you,
and whoever curses you I will curse;
and all peoples on earth
will be blessed through you.”

She points out the blessings that have come to nations that have blessed and supported the Jewish people and Israel, as well as, the hard times nations have had to endure when support has not been given.  She includes examples in both past and modern times which definitely show a correlation, and should cause much contemplation.

The author relates how irresponsible news reporting has formed many people’s outlook on Israel.  It has not been uncommon for the media to present stories with an agenda to make Israel look bad.  Ms. Teplinsky  gives many examples.  That one-sided news reporting has led viewers to form negative, and false outlooks concerning Israel and Jewish people.

Interestingly, the author points out that a sub-group within the Jewish people is discriminated against the very most.  They are the Messianic Jews, especially the ones in Israel.  Messianic Jews are mistreated on both sides.  The rest of the Jewish people are against them because they believe in Jesus.  The people in the world that are against Jews and Israel make no distinction between Jews and Messianic Jews, and lump them all together.  So Messianic believers get the same punishment or  discrimination the rest of the Jewish people do.

The author makes a very good case for why Jewish people are still God’s chosen people, and why they should be respected and supported.   Ultimately, she concludes that Israel’s mistreatment is a spiritual matter.  She believes that satan has been warring against the Jewish people and Israel since God declared them His chosen people.  Ms. Teplinsky  believes prayer is the answer for this spiritual warfare.  The book contains prayer list suggestions.  She wants us to pray for Israel, as well as, the countries around her.  In that way, some peace might come to the land until the supreme peace comes to Israel, the peace that will accompany the return of Jesus Christ.

This was an interesting book, but is not light reading.  It provides lots of food for thought.  I would recommend it for anyone who wants to understand how modern Israel came about, as well as, their existence in today’s world, and give it four stars.

The publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book through Chosen Books and  Bethany House Publishing for the purpose of review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I have not been compensated in any other manner. Despite my receiving the book free, it has not influenced my judgment, and I have given an honest opinion.

Author’s website:  http://www.lightofzion.org/

Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/Light-of-Zion/547308551993867

More information:  http://bakerpublishinggroup.com/authors/sandra-teplinsky/3770

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

“Critical Reaction” by Todd M. Johnson

Posted on December 11, 2013 by Becky

Book Cover Critical ReactionThis is a great book.  The action starts on the first page and keeps you reeled in until the finish.  This is the story of an accident at an old nuclear facility.  People are hurt and in the aftermath, the company in charge denies the extent and damage that actually occurred.  This tail takes the reader through a court trial, an investigation of what really happened and down the paths of possible conspiracy theories.

This book was well-written, the characters are very believable, and they are developed enough that the reader really cares about outcome of the different people as the story progresses.  Along with the main story line, there is the story of the two attorneys in the case which are a father-daughter team.  Those two have a past with a lot of baggage to work through while, at the same time,  trying to work together.  That feature adds even more interest to the story.  There is also a bit of a romance involved.  Everything about this book rings so true that it would be easy to believe that this story actually took place.

This was a real page turner.  There wasn’t an overt Christian message, but the book was a definite “David and Goliath” tale, that was family friendly.  I wouldn’t be ashamed to recommend it to my grandmother.   This fast-paced tale had suspense, complex cover-ups and all of my attention.  It was very refreshing to read a well-crafted story that was clean–no profanity, sex scenes or grisly descriptions.  I enjoyed it immensely and highly recommend it to anyone who wants an exciting five star story that is a pleasure to read.

The publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book through Bethany House Publishing for the purpose of review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I have not been compensated in any other manner. Despite my receiving the book free, it has not influenced my judgment, and I have given an honest opinion.

Author’s website:  www.authortoddjohnson.com

Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/Todd-M-Johnson/190616771045824

Author information:  http://bakerpublishinggroup.com/authors/todd-m-johnson/3177

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“Serenity to Accept” by Elizabeth Maddrey

Posted on December 6, 2013 by Becky

Book Cover Serenity to AcceptThis is the story of Karin Reid, a hospital nurse in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).  Karin is not a Christian but her brother, Phil, came to the Christian faith, and would really like Karin to become a believer in Jesus as well.  Karin has survived an abusive childhood, and believes life consists of doing whatever a person wants without moral restrictions.

Jason Garcia is a fairly new emergency room doctor in the same hospital Karin works in.  He is a strong believer, has high moral character and refuses to date anyone who isn’t a Christian as well.

Karin is shanghaied into attending church with Phil and his finance, Allison.  Jason attends the same service, and assumes Karin is a Christian as well.  The two of them feel an immediate attraction.

Jason and Karin date, however, Jason is shocked to find Karin is not a Christian.  At this point, he already likes her a lot, but attempts to pull back once he understands Karin’s faith, or lack thereof.  This story explores Karin and Jason’s up and down relationship, the betrayal of Karin’s best friend, Karin’s faith journey, and the effect childhood abuse can have on an individual’s life.

Serenity to Accept is the third book in the “Grant Us Grace” series.  I have not read all the books in this series, but enjoyed “catching up” with characters from the other book I did read.  This story can be enjoyed without reading the previous two books.  The author writes well, and my interest was kept in this book.  I thought that all the things that happened to Karin were very believable.  It was frustrating, however, to read about some of the choices Jason makes.  Also, Karin’s decision about faith seemed to come too fast.   Lots of time passing and events were squeezed into the last few pages of the story, so I thought the ending felt rushed.  None-the-less, I enjoyed the story and recommend it with four stars.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Hope Springs Books, in exchange for a free book review through the  http://www.bookcrash.com book review program.  All opinions expressed are my own, and I have not been compensated in any other manner. Despite my receiving the book free, it has not influenced my judgment, and I have given an honest opinion.

Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ElizabethMaddre

Her website:   http://www.elizabethmaddrey.com/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ElizabethMaddrey

More Information:  http://chalfonthouse.com/hopespringsbooks/hopesprings-authors/elizabeth-maddrey/

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“The 21 Toughest Questions Your Kids Will Ask About Christianity” by Alex McFarland

Posted on November 26, 2013 by Becky

Book Cover 21 Toughest Questions Your Kids Will Ask About ChristianityThis book endeavors to answers twenty-one questions about Christianity that the author believes are difficult, and have a high possibility that your child might ask you one day.  One chapter is devoted to each question.  Every query is gone over in detail.  Each chapter includes a “Key Concepts” section that is a recap of the question.  There are also one or more boxes in each chapter that give more in-depth information about the subject being covered.

The author does a good job of finding scripture to support his answers.  He also brings in interesting experiences he or others have had.  The book emphasizes that is it important to try to answer your children’s questions.  Ignoring hard questions may cause a child to start doubting how real Christianity is.  This book attempts to be a resource that parents can use in answering the difficult questions.

Your child might not ask all of the questions contained in this book, but you may find yourself being asked some of them. I didn’t agree with all of the conclusions the author made, but this is still a useful instrument in a parent’s toolbox.   I think this book would be a good resource for parents, anyone who works with youth, and those who might have some unanswered questions about Christianity.  This books gets four stars.

The publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book through Tyndale Blog Network (Tyndale House Publishers) for the purpose of review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I have not been compensated in any other manner. Despite my receiving the book free, it has not influenced my judgment, and I have given an honest opinion.

Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/revalexmcfarland?fref=ts

Author Information:

http://www.alexmcfarland.com

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“A Talent for Trouble” by Jen Turano

Posted on November 18, 2013 by Becky

Book Cover A Talent for TroubleThis is a lighthearted book about Felicia Murdock set in New York City in 1881.  Felicia, 24, is from a privileged household. She has spent the last four years attempting to shape herself into the perfect wife for her Pastor, Michael Fraser.  Unfortunately, Reverend Fraser wasn’t aware of Felicia in a romantic way, and when the book opens, Felicia has just returned from the Reverend’s wedding–to someone else.

Four years earlier, Reverend Fraser complimented Felicia about a hideous dress she was wearing.  From then on, in an attempt to attract the Reverend, she had exclusively worn dresses just like that:  billowing fabric that gave no sense of her figure, a plethora of ribbons, and other gaudy decorations to the excess.  Most of society thought she was either eccentric or had a terrible fashion sense, or both.

After the shock of the wedding, Felicia decides to change the direction of her life.  One of the first things she does is to see her dresses for the monstrosities that they are, and get an up-to-date wardrobe.  Felicia’s mother, Ruth, has decided to attempt some match making by having Grayson Sumner accompany Felicia to a tea.  Grayson is an English aristocrat with a mysterious past.

From that moment forward, everything in Felicia’s life changes.  Society, as well as, Grayson, are quick to notice that Felicia is quite a beauty once she gives up her baggy clothing.  She also gets a lot of undue attention while continuing her mission work in the seedier sections of the city.  That attention gets Felicia into some predicaments she had never faced before.

Felicia finds herself in some dangerous situations when she innocently attempts to help people.  In addition, she also sets off on an adventure when, in disguise, she goes with a reporter friend to an opium den.  Also, during this time, Felicia attempts to deflect the overly aggressive attention of a widowed pastor who wants to marry her to be a mother to his four children.

In the midst of all this, Grayson Sumner and Felicia often cross paths.  Each time Felicia is around Grayson, her heart  grows a little fonder, but Grayson also exasperates her, too.  Before the story ends, there are kidnappings, body guards and private investigators–along with romance.

After I read this, I found it was part of a series.  However, this book definitely stood alone, and I did not feel “lost” in this story.  It is not necessary to read the first books to enjoy this one.  That being said, I liked this one so much, I do want to go back and read the first two.  This was an exciting and fun book.  I didn’t want to put it down.  I enjoyed the tale, and liked the Christian message that was a natural part of the story.  This is a five star book, and comes with my recommendation.

The publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book through Bethany House Publishing for the purpose of review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I have not been compensated in any other manner. Despite my receiving the book free, it has not influenced my judgment, and I have given an honest opinion.

Website:  http://jenturano.com/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/jenturanoauthor

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“This is Your Captain Speaking” by Gavin MacLeod

Posted on October 31, 2013 by Becky

Book Cover This is Your Captain Speaking

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

All Aboard

This is the life story of Gavin MacLeod.  His story begins with his first performance on stage.  He was a preschooler in a family of very modest means.  Gavin’s Dad passed away when he was only thirteen.  He talks about how that affected his life, as well as, the life of his brother, who is two years younger.  His life story traces his acting career from its humble beginnings to becoming a well-known face in America’s living rooms.

Gavin was on two long running series:   “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” and “The Love Boat.”  These shows brought him much fame, and riches.  As “The Love Boat” ended, it spawned a multi-decade career for Gavin as a representative for Princess Cruises.

He has been married twice–or three times depending on how you count it–because he married, divorced and remarried his second wife, Patti.   He has four children with his first wife, Rootie.

When his mother was gravely ill, Gavin prayed to Jesus and said if his mother’s life was sparred, Gavin would serve Him for the rest of his life.  His mother did survive.  Suddenly Gavin was overwhelmed with the notion to call his ex-wife Patti.  This was shocking since, he had not communicated with her at all since their divorce.

Unbeknownst to Gavin, Patti had become a born again Christian.  She and friends had been praying for a long time for Gavin to become a Christian, and for their marriage to be restored.  When Gavin met Patti he knew right away she was different, and he wanted whatever she had, too.  When he found out it was Christianity, he immediately became a follower of Christ.  Later Gavin and Patti remarried.

Gavin states since becoming a Christian, everything has changed for him.  Life is better, and marriage is better.  Evidence of that is his second marriage to Patti which has been going strong for 28 years.  Gavin gives all the credit to Jesus Christ.

He has led a very interesting life.   As an actor, Gavin rubbed shoulders with many famous people, including Ronald Reagan, Bob Hope and Cary Grant.  He has also traveled the world.

Of all the movies, shows, and parts he has played, the work he wants to be known for is the movie,  “The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry.”  Not only did he enjoy the part he played, he is overjoyed by the number of people’s lives who have been changed by it.  Now in his early 80’s, Gavin recently said he has retired as an actor.  However, he still tries to make it to as many showings of “Jonathan Sperry” as he can.

He wants to be known as an actor, and as a Christian activist.

This book was very engrossing, and interesting to read.  I enjoyed learning about Gavin’s life.  I was really touched by the love he has for his children, Patti and Jesus.  When he became a follower of Christ, he genuinely meant it, and his life changed from that point forward.  After that life altering event, he was convicted to ask his first wife for forgiveness, and he relates his joy on receiving it.  This story is easy to read, and has some great pictures.  If you want to be inspired and entertained, check it out this five-star book.

The publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book through Thomas Nelson Publishing for the purpose of review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I have not been compensated in any other manner.  Despite my receiving the book free, it has not influenced my judgment, and I have given an honest opinion.

Author’s website:  http://www.gavinmacleod.com/

Author’s facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/GavinMacLeodOfficial

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“Ten Great Dates” by Larson & Arp

Posted on October 29, 2013 by Becky

Book Cover Ten Great DatesThis is a book written by four people, two married couples:  Peter & Heather Larson and David & Claudia Arp.  The Arps have written many books about marriage and are founders of a marriage ministry.  The Larsons both have degrees in psychology–he a doctorate, and she a masters level.  They have worked with couples, and host the DVD of “10 Great Dates.”  These four have a lot of experience with people, and care about helping marriages thrive.

This book promises to bring married couples closer in their faith, their love, and their marriage.  They do this by setting up ten different dates for the couples to go on.  Each date will have at least one objective to achieve.

Before each date, the couple needs to follow the instructions the Larsons and Arps have for each outing.  This includes a worksheet found at the back of the book for each individual to fill out.  There are suggested locations for each date, as well as, conversations starters and advice about topics that should be steered clear of.  Also, the dates should be done in order.

The very first date addresses the subject of praying together as a couple.  Studies show that couples that pray together have very positive things as a result.  This topic is so important to a marriage, it comes first.  Many other subjects are covered in the upcoming dates including the very real problem of pornography.

This book has lots of great ideas.  I think if a couple followed them, they would find their marriage all the stronger for it.  Although the subject of strengthening marriages is serious, the date ideas are fun, and could even be done on a tight budget.  I am glad the book emphasizes the importance of praying together, and wisely suggests engaged couples address that area before marriage.  I am blessed with a spouse who prayed with me from the beginning, and can say how much that has fortified and enriched our relationship.

This book is easy to read, and is a small cost to pay for the many dividends that could come to a marriage by trying out the ideas in this volume.  I recommend it, and give it five stars.

The publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book through Bethany House Publishing for the purpose of review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I have not been compensated in any other manner. Despite my receiving the book free, it has not influenced my judgment, and I have given an honest opinion.

Author information:  http://bakerpublishinggroup.com/authors/david-arp/4130; http://bakerpublishinggroup.com/authors/peter-larson/4128

Website:  http://www.10greatdates.org/; http://www.marriagealive.com/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/10GreatDates?filter=2

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment