The Searchers by Joseph Loconte, Book review

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

ISBN-13: 978-1595554468

Synopsis:

 

Never before had they known such hope.

In a world drenched in violence and oppression, here was a man armed with a message of peace and freedom. Into lives nearly overwhelmed by grief and sorrow, he brought compassion and healing and the deepest joy. To people who felt like outcasts and aliens, he showed the way home. And then, in one devastating night, all their hopes collapsed.

This is where our story begins—in the valley of despair. It is a tale of two friends, a stranger, and a search for truth in a world gone mad with doubt.

My thoughts:

'The Searchers: A Quest for Faith in the Valley of Doubt' by Joseph Loconte describes what happened on the road to Emmaus and what it means to believers or non-believers.

Most Christians know the story of two friends traveling on the road to Emmaus to a place of safety after witnessing the crucifixion of Jesus. Joined by another traveler whom they do not recognize as the Lord, they share their fears, despair and disillusionment (Luke 24: 13-53).

What ensues is skillfully described by Joseph Loconte as he depicts this amazing journey during a most difficult time for Jesus' disciples. Using quotes, literary excerpts and biblical passages, we are shown a compelling historical look at the emotional torment these followers of Christ experienced upon losing their charismatic leader.

In 'The Searchers' the author compares today's often trouble times with those events with feeling and compassion for any of us 'traveler'. You might say each chapter is almost a book in itself with in depth notes guaranteed to answer any question about faith.

The chapter 'Rumors of Angels' was most intriguing. You find yourself delving in angelic figures such as those who appeared to the devoted women who discover the absence of Christ's body in the tomb and J.R.R. Tolkien's portraying of Gandalf the Grey in The Lord of the Rings. Joseph Loconte tells us Tolkien's Christian beliefs were clearly shaped by his understanding of the divine as he referred to Gandalf as an 'angel incarnate' in his correspondence. I will have to add the Lord of the Rings to my (never ending) list of books to read and see it for myself!

With unmistakable taste Joseph Loconte shows us how the Old and New Testaments are bound together in a singular, coherent story of how a world of breathtaking beauty fallen in ruins was rescued with divine love.

That is the true message received by the Emmaus road travelers: Hope, He has risen!

British scholars Hoskyns and Davey agreed: 'The story of the death and resurrection of Jesus records historical facts which demand the consideration and judgment of every man and woman.'

If the Christian story is true, then human life has a meaning and a destination. As believers we are being given a way to the Truth and with it, we are set free. 

Compelling and well worth 5 stars, this is an engaging book most promising for those of us who seek spiritual answers!

About the Author:

'Joseph Loconte, PhD, is an Associate Professor of History at The King's College in New York City, where he teaches Western Civilization and American Foreign Policy.

Loconte is the author of The Searchers: A Quest for Faith in the Valley of Doubt (Thomas Nelson, 2012). His other books are The End of Illusions: Religious Leaders Confront Hitler’s Gathering Storm (Rowman & Littlefield, 2004) and Seducing the Samaritan: How Government Contracts Are Reshaping Social Services (The Pioneer Institute, 1997). His commentary on religion and democracy, human rights, and international religious freedom appears in the nation’s leading media outlets, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, The New Republic, The Weekly Standard, and National Public Radio. He is also a regular contributor to the London-based Standpoint Magazine and Italy’s La Stampa.

Loconte has testified before Congress on International Human Rights and served as a Human Rights expert on the 2005 Congressional Task Force on the United Nations.'

For more information see (here)

I received this book free from THOMAS NELSON/BOOKSNEEZE as part of their blogger review program.

I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

A Book Worth Checking Out!

Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers

ISBN-13: 978-1414353081

Synopsis:

New York City, 1910 
Driven by a shameful past and a perilous future, Maureen O’Reilly and her sister flee Ireland in search of safety, liberty, and opportunity. But after surviving the rigors of Ellis Island, Maureen learns that their benefactor has died, and his family—refusing to own his debt—casts her out. Impoverished and in danger of deportation, Maureen connives to find employment in a prominent Manhattan department store, only to discover the elegant facade hides a dangerous secret.

Despite her family’s disapproval, Olivia Wakefield vows to honor her father’s promise but can’t find Maureen, the woman her brother-in-law so rudely turned away. Unexpected help comes from a local businessman, who Olivia dares hope will become more than an ally, even as she fears the secrets he’s hiding.

As women begin disappearing from the department store, Olivia rallies influential ladies in her circle to help Maureen stand against injustice and fight for the lives of their growing band of sisters. But will they be too late? And in the midst of a world gone mad, can either woman open her heart to divine leading or the love it might bring? 

Note to readers: I am always thankful to book publishers such as TYNDALE for letting reviewers know when a good book is coming out. This one was published on the 17th of August 2012 and is truly promising! I hope to review it on this blog later on!

To order at Amazon see (here)

About the Author:

'Cathy Gohlke is the two-time Christy Award-winning author of William Henry is a Fine Name and I Have Seen Him in the Watchfires, which also won the American Christian Fiction Writers' Book of the Year Award and was listed by Library Journal as one of the Best Books of 2008.
Cathy has worked as a school librarian, drama director, and director of children's and education ministries. When not traipsing the hills and dales of historic sites, she, her husband, and their dog, Reilly, make their home on the banks of the Laurel Run in Maryland.'

For more on this author and an excerpt of the book visit her website (here) 

Note: I was not asked to mention this author and her latest offering. Any opinion reflected is entirely my own!

If Only...

If only...People thought twice before they spoke...

I wanted to share with readers something I learned just today...
Sometime no matter how right we are, we are wrong...

When faced with a (visiting) concerned parent telling this young couple that unless they embraced God's word, they would go to Hell, the young husband answered:

'Shht...Don't tell me the ending, I am not finished with the book yet!'

Amazing what we can learn from the younger generation!

(sound of applauds here!!)

The Stars Shine Bright, A Raleigh Harmon Novel by Sibella Giorello, Book review And Giveaway

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

ISBN-13: 978-1595545367

Synopsis:

After the FBI suspends her for bending its rules, Special Agent Raleigh Harmon is looking for a chance to redeem her career and re-start her life.

Sent undercover to a thoroughbred horse track, Raleigh takes on a double life to find out who’s fixing the races. But when horses start dying and then her own life is threatened, Raleigh realizes something bigger—and more sinister—is ruining Emerald Meadows.

She’s never felt more alone.

Her one contact with the FBI is Special Agent Jack Stephanson, a guy who seems to jump from antagonistic to genuine friend depending on the time of day. And she can’t turn to her family for support. They’re off-limits while she’s undercover, and her mother isn’t speaking to her anyway, having been confined to a mental hospital following a psychotic breakdown. Adding insult to her isolation, Raleigh’s fiancé wants them to begin their life together—now—precisely when she’s been ordered not to be herself.

With just days left before the season ends, Raleigh races to stop the killing and find out who’s behind the track’s trouble, all the while trying to determine if Jack is friend or foe, and whether marrying her fiancé will make things better—or worse.

Raleigh is walking through the darkest night she’s faced, searching for a place where the stars shine bright.

My thoughts:

'The Stars Shine Bright' is one of those rare contemporary novels I enjoyed. Written by a gifted author I would gladly meet if given the opportunity, whose various interests provides readers with the right balance betwixt great entertainment and life's hard lessons.

In this latest novel of an undercover female FBI agent trying to salvage her career, the author exposes intricate insight in the world of racing! 
Despite her best intentions Raleigh Harmon discovers the price of lying even for a good reason does not pay off. In this latest assignment she has fourty eight hours to resolve a crime and she is trying so hard to do the right thing for all concerned.

Author Sibella Giorello's style is witty and entertaining and she is also singularly well read in Forensic geology (until I read something of her background!). Washington State has been my home also for the past ten years, mineral samples abounded in our house and our family enjoys stargazing!

Arresting characters - protagonists or supportive cast - one spouting Tennessee Williams quotes, the in depth plots beguiling, the dialogues/monologues stimulating, the subtle inspirational reminder - even an FBI agent prays whilst carrying a Gloch - and let's not forget the dry humour, just my taste!

In short,  this novel reflects the mark of a good storyteller and I look forward to see what happens next in Raleigh Harmon's life!
(I understand there are four Raleigh Harmon's novels prior to this one but this does not detract from the 5th one!)

Beautiful Washington scenery, interesting geological facts, lively interaction and even a touch of nostalgia creates the background for this entertaining story.  This author is aptly making sure boring couldn't possibly be hinted at when her book is perused! You live the action as you read the lines!

'Emerald Meadows' and the world of race horses is intricately coming alive for even the uninitiated like myself. I found the background of this lively world fascinating. 

With her attention to details, Sibella Giorello's latest novel rings with authenticity and suspense providing readers with some gripping moments, topped with just a touch of romance and perfect for a great afternoon of entertainment (yes, you cannot put this one down!)

Adding the author's name to my list of 'encore', I give this title 5 stars!

About the Author:

'Sibella Giorello writes an award-winning mystery series that follows the adventures of Raleigh Harmon, forensic geologist and FBI Special Agent. A former journalist, Sibella sowed nearly every wild oat before settling down with her husband Joe, a blues musician from Queens N.Y.'

Read more on her website (here)

Novelist Sibella Giorello is celebrating the release of the latest book in her praiseworthy Raleigh Harmon series by giving away a Kindle Fire! 

Find out what the reviewers are saying here!

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A brand new Kindle Fire
• The entire 5-book Raleigh Harmon series.

Hurry, the giveaway ends on 8/25/12. The winner will be announced on 8/27/12 on Sibella's blog!

Just click one of the icons below to enter. Tell your friends about Sibella's giveaway on FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning.

 

I received this book free from LITFUSE as part of their blogger review program.

I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

 

Because We All Need To Smile Sometimes!

Sometime life can be thoroughly puzzling...

So here are a few signs to bring a smile or two...

And when you are done reading, just scroll down a little further to find out why I posted these!

I wonder how many people slowed down/stopped to read this sign!

Universal confusion...

That makes sense...

And loving dogs as we do I could not resist this one...Now if dogs could read...

Do Welsh Pembroke Corgis speaks the same language as a Berger Malinois by the way?

I wonder which (non intelligent ) city employee came up with this one...

And why did I post these?

Well, for reason of privacy I cannot provide you with the actual sign but here is a little of what happened in our neighbourhood only yesterday...

Two years ago an elderly neighbour passed away and having no friends/family (difficult temperament) his encumbered estate was threatened with foreclosure. 

The (well known) bank obviously wished to extend all possible courtesy to heirs who just might resurface and placed numerous colourful notices on the delinquent property in the last year. (Each notice requires a  ferry fee ticket and guest pass for the bank representative since this is a private island)

This last one requested of the deceased to contact the bank asap or the property would be foreclosed upon.

???????

Just smile!

The Violinist Thumb by Sam Kean, Book review

Publisher: Little, Brown and Company

ISBN-13: 978-0316182317

Synopsis:                                                                                                                                                                 

 

From New York Times bestselling author Sam Kean comes more incredible stories of science, history, language, and music, as told by our own DNA.

In The Disappearing Spoon, (see my review here) bestselling author Sam Kean unlocked the mysteries of the periodic table. In THE VIOLINIST'S THUMB, he explores the wonders of the magical building block of life: DNA.
There are genes to explain crazy cat ladies, why other people have no fingerprints, and why some people survive nuclear bombs. Genes illuminate everything from JFK's bronze skin (it wasn't a tan) to Einstein's genius. This book will grab you!

My thoughts:

Some of you might remember Sam Kean's best seller 'The Disappearing Spoon' (see review here) and know instinctively you are in for a treat. This time, the subject is DNA and how science can now decipher this fascinating genetic code despite controversial theories abounding.

For someone like me, it means simply that DNA has shaped our past and will determine our future. I admit to be in the infancy stage when it comes to science and will not try to expend on the subject leaving it to charismatic Sam Kean and his latest book, 'The Violinist Thumb'. 

Since I much prefer to stick to facts rather than my interpretation of the author's notes, let me explain this book is divided in 4 parts:

- Part 1: How to read a genetic score

- Part 2: Our animal past - making things that crawl and frolic and kill

- Part 3: Genes and geniuses: How humans became all too human

- Part 4: The oracle of DNA: Genetics in the past, present and future.

And before I lose anyone out there let me reassure you that this author has such a knack for applied science, you will just get into it and come out the better for it even at 416 pages.

Sam Kean does not leave anyone behind and will quickly grab your interest with his approach to life genetics. He is that good!

This is not a boring text book and reads as a well researched biography of DNA and what we have discovered so far on the subject. And there is so much more yet to be discovered!

With a storyteller like Sam Kean however, even the initiated will find themselves challenged to check out everything he describes, proving the subject to be that interesting. Let's call this the mark of a great teacher shall we?!

With interesting documentation including twenty six photos and illustrations, Sam Kean leads you to understand what we can expect in this wonderful universe we dwell in his epilogue or Genomics gets personal. Notes and Errata were a bit more difficult to understand as they are complex but I found myself none the less fascinated by his rationale.

All in all, I would qualify this a wonderfully researched tome which holds an in depth bibliography sure to delight serious readers!

And less I forget, here is a little something of note for interested parties:

Sam Kean has hidden a DNA related acrostic (incognito message formed by stringing together the initial letters of lines or paragraphs or other units of composition in a  work...are you still with me?) in The Violinist Thumb - described by the author as a genetic "Easter egg' if you will.

If you decode his message, be sure to email him at his website (see below). And if you don't...

email him for the answer. Now that's what makes Sam Kean the sort of teacher you wished you had in High School!

No hesitation: This is 5 stars material!

And just in case you don't know him, meet Sam Kean:

Sam Kean spent years collecting mercury from broken thermometers as a kid, and now he's a writer in in Washington, DC. His work has appeared in the New York Times Magazine, Mental Floss, Slate, and Science, and has been featured on NPR's "Radiolab" and "All Things Considered.

" The Disappearing Spoon, his first book, was a New York Times national bestseller.

For more on this gripping storyteller, visit his website (here) including excerpts!

I received this ARC from HACHETTE BOOK GROUP as part of their blogger review program.

I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Being Content...

Be Content...The perfect thought for today!

 
'Wherever I am is wherever I am meant to be, whatever I am doing is whatever I am meant to be doing and whatever everyone else is doing is exactly what they are meant to be doing - this is contentment.'

Blessings...
A sincere appreciation for what I have...
Come, see my corner of the world...

Stepping to the beach for an evening stroll...

Seeing the ferry on its last voyage of today...

(last run leaving the mainland at 1900 hours)

There must be a Corgi in the picture of course... (leash required on beach)

An Angel left this perhaps for us to find...

Seagull feather ?

Beach pebbles from the glacier, mooring and oyster shell

Beach combing is always fun, is it not?

Wondering where this log came from...

Being content...

Amazing is it not, God's palette...

All photos are (Live and) Dream a little dream.