Review of Secrets She Kept by Cathy Gohlke

Standard

Genre: Historical Fiction

Highly Recommended.

25154582Hannah Sterling never had the close relationship with her mother that she desired; but when her mother, Lieselotte, dies, Hannah begins to uncover the war secrets that divided her family and plagued her mother.

Two parallel storylines complement each other in this beautifully written work: Lieselotte’s WWII love-story, and Hannah’s journey to Berlin in the 1970s to visit the grandfather she did not know she had, and uncover her family’s identity.

The romance, history, and complex themes are accentuated by the depth of the characters and film-worthy suspense. The reality of the Shoah can be difficult to remember, yet I did not want to put this one down. Gohlke has crafted a powerful portrait of courage and forgiveness in the face of hatred and darkness.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers.

facebooktwittergoogle_pluspinterest

Review of Bathsheba: Reluctant Beauty by Angela Hunt

Standard

Genre: Biblical Fiction

Series: Dangerous Beauty (Book 2)

51ximKyn5jL._SY344_BO1,204,203,200_This narrative of Bathsheba’s life covers a large portion of Scripture from the moment that King David spies and acquisitions Bathsheba to the moment when Solomon is finally crowned king. It is carefully written not to contradict Scripture, while creatively adding in character and plot details to capture the larger picture of the biblical story.

Those familiar with these Scriptures will remember the prominent sins (lust, rape, murder, jealousy, pride, etc.) that may not be appropriate themes for younger readers. The opening chapters were pretty sensual compared to other fictitious Christian works (i.e. beginning with Bathsheba’s marriage to Uriah, her subsequent rape by the king, and an oddly misplaced moment of the prophet Nathan envisioning Bathsheba while being intimate with his own un-loved wife). The story is told in the first person from both Bathsheba and the prophet Nathan’s perspective in succinct alternating chapters. The author’s choice to cast Nathan as a love-struck guardian over Bathsheba felt inappropriate to me even with the human plausibility factor.

The story also lacked anticipation at times. That is, it moved slowly–not because the details were uninteresting, but because the character motivations were not always strong enough to create enough suspense to pull the story along. It is a captivating narrative because it provides an interesting take on familiar biblical characters; but if it were not for the Bible, the story would not have enough substance to move it forward.

Overall I enjoyed reading this for its intriguing perspective–not just of Bathsheba, but of David, the politics of his kingdom, and the relationships within the royal household. It motivated me to revisit the biblical stories, and (for the most part) kept my attention. But, I also think these characters and this story could be fictionalized better.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House.

facebooktwittergoogle_pluspinterest

Review of Not by Sight by Kate Breslin

Standard

Genre: Romantic Historical Fiction

Not Recommended.

51wZz3hh67L._SX321_BO1,204,203,200_It’s 1917, and wealthy British suffragette, Grace Mabry, desires to help her country’s WWI efforts in any way she can in order to bring her brother home from the trenches of France safely. At a costume ball she hands a feather of cowardice to Jack Benningham, heir to the Earl of Stonebrooke–a man she believes should be fighting for his country rather than attending balls and absorbing female attention. But Jack has secrets of his own, and is involved in a circle of espionage. As their paths cross again, they are each forced to confront true courage, vulnerability, and the romantic feelings budding between them despite him being engaged to another.

I chose to read this book based on the stunning cover art of the mysterious woman in a brilliant green dress. The mystery and enchantment of the cover, unfortunately, did not translate for me into the narrative. This is a cute, light-hearted story, but it progressed too slowly for me, and without real depth. There are some twists–the backbone of the story is good–but it was not written in a way that created much suspense or mystery. I easily anticipated what would happen based on the direct character cues and details. I also did not love the characters, and would have liked more historical detail.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House.

facebooktwittergoogle_pluspinterest

Review of Thankful by Eileen Spinelli Illus. Archie Preston

Standard

Genre: Children’s

Highly Recommended.

_225_350_Book.1665.coverI love this book about being thankful for the little things! The charming illustrations show a sister and brother playing dress-up, helping with chores, and generally enjoying themselves, while the corresponding rhyme imaginatively describes the alternate reality of “pretend” that they are reenacting or experiencing. The result is an unusual depth of empathy and thankfulness amidst the simplicity of the story and pictures.

Moreover, the simple rhythmic text is perfect for young readers. My five year old has enjoyed reading this to me, while both he and his younger brother find the illustrations interesting and funny.

This is a book with a great, multi-layered message, that our whole family enjoys.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zonderkids.

facebooktwittergoogle_pluspinterest

Review of Bible Stories Gone Crazy! by Josh Edwards and Emiliano Migliardo

Standard

Genre: Children’s Puzzle Book

Recommended.

unnamed(1)My 3 and 5 year old love this over-sized book of silly Bible illustrations.

The Bible stories included are: Noah and the Ark, Moses leading the way across the Red Sea, Joshua and the destruction of Jericho, David and Goliath, Daniel in the lion’s den, Jonah and the Sea Monster, Jesus’ miracle of loaves and fishes, and the healing of the man being lowered through the roof. Each story has it’s own two-page spread, a Bible verse, the longer Bible reference, and multiple funny mistakes and/or events to find in the picture. There are also teddy bears to find within each story.

The quality of the book is really good: It is hardback, and the pages are thick and glossy like dry erase paper (we have not written in it, but that would probably work).

The kids enjoyed the bright illustrations, and finding modern, fantasy, and humorous images mixed within the Bible characters and scenes. This book keeps their attention longer than many. One thing that confused and bothered us, though, was that some of the side notes of what to look for do not match the illustrations exactly. For instance, there may be an image of a guy doing something, and when you find him in the picture he is facing the opposite direction as the example–so some of the details could be better. There is also no answer key, which would be helpful (one item we still have not found!). But many of the questions in the margins are excellent discussion points, and it is a fun book!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kregel Publications.

facebooktwittergoogle_pluspinterest

Tonight Begins Rosh Hashanah; Happy 5776!

Standard

L’Shanah Tovah! Tonight is Rosh Hashanah, the head of the Jewish year, and beginning of the year 5776. This day (Tishrei 1st) is also called Yom Teruah–the day of shouting (also called the Feast of Trumpets). I have noticed that Christian/Messianic congregations often focus on celebrating from the perspective of Yom Teruah as there is so much eschatological significance; but I would like to express the depth and beauty of this holiday from a different angle.

Rosh Hashanah looks back to remember the beginning–how God created the heavens and the earth. Yet even though Rosh Hashanah begins the new year, it is the seventh month on the Hebrew calendar, because after the creation came a re-creation. After the world and calendar was established, God declared that Nissan–the month in which Passover occurs–would be the first month; a new beginning (Ex. 12:2). So, just as we were born, and then are spiritually re-born in Messiah Jesus, so was the earth created, then “re-created” in the month of the Passover Lamb and exodus! Only believers can appreciate these parallels.

Rosh Hashanah also begins the important ten day period of the High Holidays, or Days of Awe, culminating in Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement). This is a time of serious reflection and re-centering. We remember that God is the Creator of the universe, high above all else. We remember who He has created us to be within the world. We go back to a pure foundation of intimacy in Him through repentance (tashlich): casting aside the old, sinful, and not-beneficial, and anticipating instead the sweetness of the Lord, which we are invited to taste and see (Psalm 34:8).

As we enter into this exciting new season I pray that you would be blessed, strengthened, and awed by the beauty and glory of our Lord, who has created and called you to exciting new things in Him.

 

 

facebooktwittergoogle_pluspinterest

Review of Mind of Her Own by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer

Standard

Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance

Recommended.

Mind-of-Her-Own7Louisa and Collin Copeland are struggling in their marriage. Then a kitchen accident causes Louisa to wake up in the hospital with amnesia and an alter identity. With her memory gone, Louisa no longer identifies as a trophy wife and mother of three. Instead she believes she is Jazz Sweet–a renowned romance writer from Florida. This disruption of their normal lives allows both Louisa/Jazz and Collin to re-discover who they are, independently and in marriage, and to bring healing to the past in moving forward to a more lively future.

This fun narrative explores deep pain and real issues while managing to keep the tone uplifting, inspiring, and even humorous. The mystery surrounding Louisa’s dissociative personality is a bit predictable, but also realistic and healing. I enjoyed reading about how this fictitious couple reinvented their marriage while learning to live authentically and fully as themselves.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers.

facebooktwittergoogle_pluspinterest

The Power of Rapid Intercession

Standard

In the middle of a particularly busy day of kids, homeschool, seminary homework, and too many undone house maintenance projects, a friend I have not seen in a long time came to my mind. It is frequent for me to think of people throughout the day, and typically I move quickly to the next thought, or maybe say a short prayer for the person. But this time I did what is rare for me, and I texted my friend.

My friend was in the middle of a problem. The train she was riding was in an accident. Everybody was fine, but the situation was chaotic, and it looked like she might not get where she was going. So I prayed for my friend that another way would come, and texted her my 20 second prayer. Eight minutes later she wrote again that my prayer had been speedy, and she was again on her way! Problem averted through a very short prayer!

I am so glad I did not ignore this moment!

Intercession does not have to be about long hours in the prayer room. It can also be listening and acting on the Lord’s promptings throughout the day. The Holy Spirit is placing small missions in our minds and hearts. Are we listening? Are we pausing to act? Sometimes the most important moments happen in the shortest slivers of time.

“The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results” (James 5:16 NLT).

facebooktwittergoogle_pluspinterest

Review of Ghost Boy: The Miraculous Escape of a Misdiagnosed Boy Trapped Inside His Own Body by Martin Pistorius

Standard

Genre: Memoir

Recommended.

_225_350_Book.1001.coverAt twelve, Martin contracted an illness that left him debilitated–unable to speak, move, or thrive on his own. His family continued to care for him, but did not realize he was aware of his surroundings. Then a care-giver changed his life by treating him like a person, believing in him, and helping him connect with an opportunity to learn to speak using technology. Now he shares his touching journey of having been very much awake and alert as a “ghost boy” within his unresponsive body. He pieces together his memories, sharing his strength in overcoming obstacles to re-enter the world by learning to communicate, gaining independence, and finding love.

This is a touching memoir, and insightful coming-to-age story, from one who has overcome so much adversity. Martin openly shares of being abused (verbally, physically, and sexually) in some of the special needs institutions that he spent time in over the years. He also shares of overhearing family members complain about the burden of caring for him, and of the many difficulties of being respected and noticed within the “real world” as a special needs adult. His positive attitude throughout it all is inspiring, as is the way he speaks of God as an ever-present companion in the years when the outside world could not recognize the life and intelligence of his active spirit.

I found parts of the narrative hard to follow as it is not always chronological and felt jumbled at times. The writing itself also varies between very engaging, and not-so-much. Overall though, it is a blessing that Martin can now share his story. He and his wife Joanna are both strong and inspiring individuals, and Martin’s perspective gives new meaning to what it means to be alive.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson.

facebooktwittergoogle_pluspinterest

Review of A.D. The Bible Continues: The Revolution that Changed the World by Dr. David Jeremiah

Standard

Genre: General Christian/Biblical History

Recommended.

revolutionthatchangedtheworld This is an interesting book in that it is based on the NBC show A.D. The Bible Continues (which I have not seen). It reads like a devotional commentary on the book of Acts (prefaced by a quick introduction of the Old Testament, and two chapters on the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus to set the scene). Each chapter highlights stories that capture the human element of the Christian revolution along with commentary that connects to the contemporary audience.

I think this could be a helpful and interesting source for new/young believers to visualize the historical context of scripture (or anyone who is unfamiliar). There is basic theology included here and there, which I felt was well balanced for a multi-denominational Protestant audience. And the devotional feel and personal insight into the disciples’ stories presents a very relatable and readable perspective. I also like the scattering of side-notes, which address interesting topics.

Overall, this is a pretty good overview of select moments from Acts, and I recommend it to those new to biblical history–especially teenage believers.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers.

 

facebooktwittergoogle_pluspinterest