Announcing The Winner Of The Sinner's Garden...

• Publisher: Thomas Nelson (December 17, 2013)
• ISBN-13: 978-1401687380

I am happy to say that the winner of THE SINNER'S GARDEN by William Sirls is....

StaceyJanuary 21, 2014 at 11:41 AM

Noelle, that sounds really interesting. I'm going to write that one down. 

CONGRATULATIONS Stacey!

I'll be contacting you shortly to get your address and will post asap (seems this coming Friday is my next time off island!)

Thank you to those readers who entered and best wishes for the next time!

Also a heartfelt thank you to WILLIAM SIRLS and BOOKSNEEZE for this splendid opportunity!

The Sinner's Garden by William Sirls, Book review and GIVEAWAY

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• Publisher: Thomas Nelson (December 17, 2013)
• ISBN-13: 978-1401687380

SYNOPSIS:

In the small Lake Erie township of Benning, someone is at work cultivating a supernatural garden …

Andy Kemp’s young life has been as ravaged as his scarred face. Disfigured by an abusive father, the teenager hides behind his books and an impenetrable wall of cynicism and anger.

As Andy’s mother struggles to reconnect with him, his Uncle Rip returns transformed from a stint in prison and wants to be a mentor to the reclusive boy, doing everything he can to help end Andy’s pain. When Andy begins hearing strange music through his iPod and making near-prophetic announcements, Rip is convinced that what Andy is hearing is the voice of God.

Elsewhere, police officer Heather Gerisch responds to a late-night breaking and entering in one of the poorest homes in town. She soon realizes that the masked prowler has left thousands of dollars in gift cards from a local grocery store.

As the bizarre break-ins continue and Heather pursues the elusive “Summer Santa,” Andy and Rip discover an enormous and well-kept garden of wildflowers that seems to have grown overnight at an abandoned steel mill.

Soon, they realize who the gardener is, and a spree of miracles transfigures this small town from a place of hopelessness into a place of healing and beauty.

Here are my thoughts:

From the beginning the book's synopsis intrigued me! There is a wealth of possibilities in it and it definitively engaged my imagination. No spoilers here, discover the story behind the title for yourselves!

Adversity is something most of us face in life, Faith is what carries us through the rough patches. I for one cannot for a single moment even envision what my life would be without faith!

The Sinner's Garden reminds us vividly God has a plan for each of us no matter the circumstances with its staunch lessons about love, hate and finally victory over the evil caused by misunderstandings and lies.

What shines throughout William Sirls' tale is that God is in control and if we only take the time to listen, we can hear him speak to us directly!

With its unforgettable cast of broken lives, The Sinner's Garden is a powerful reflection of God's love for each of us as we discover and identify with one or the other character. 

A great inspirational novel to share with anyone in the family (especially teens!) and a good addition to any pastoral library!

5 stars!

Note to Readers: Scroll down for Giveaway information!

Meet the Author:

Over the course of his life, William Sirls has experienced both great highs and tremendous lows— some born of chance, some born of choice. Years before the publication of his first novel, he worked 60 hour weeks as a senior vice president at one of the nation’s largest investment firms, somehow finding time to read three to four books per week and to rough out ideas for different stories of his own.

In early 2004, while visiting his oldest daughter at a Detroit hospital, he came across a young cancer patient that was being pulled in a little red wagon by his parents. At the time, Sirls had no idea that he was looking at three characters that would appear more than eight years later in his first novel, The Reason.

More on his website (HERE).

GIVEAWAY

Good news Folks!

I have an extra copy of 'THE SINNER'S GARDEN' TO GIVE AWAY just waiting for one lucky reader.

Interested? Well here is your opportunity to win it:

Giveaway opened to all (International readers included!) from 20 January 2014 to Midnight on 28 January 2014. 

Just place a comment on this post and tell me if you are interested in the novel and your name will be entered in the drawing (Random.org).

Be sure to include a way to contact you of course for mailing!

All the best,

I received a copy of this title from BOOKSNEEZE to review and one for a giveaway. 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 Man Called Blessed by Ted Dekker, Book review

• Publisher: Thomas Nelson edition (April 4, 2006)
• ISBN-13: 978-0849945144

Synopsis:

One man holds the key to finding the ark of the covenant.

In this explosive sequel to Blessed Child, Rebecca Soloman leads a team deep into the Ethiopian desert to hunt the one man who may know the final resting place of the Ark of the Covenant. But Islamic fundamentalists fear that the Ark's discovery will compel Israel to rebuild Soloman's temple on the very site of their own holy mosque in Jerusalem.

They immediately dispatch Ismael, their most accomplished assassin, to pursue the same man, but the one in their sights is no ordinary man. His name is Caleb, and he is also on a quest--to find again the love he once embraced as a child.

The fate of a million souls rests in the hands of these three.

(Source Google - Ethiopian wilderness)

Here are my thoughts:

'A Man called Blessed' story line will grip you with its intriguing 'what if' Israel would discover the Ark of the Covenant and rebuilt the Temple. 

As it is his norm, Ted Dekker offers his readers a spectrum of ideas and reactions to this possibility, informing rather than preaching. His novels stands out with their unusual aspects, their very subjects offering new dimensions to entertaining, this one, the concept of what might happen 'if', riveting! 
His co-author Bill Bright stated this novel is a message spun from both their hearts, judge for yourself!

A sequel* to 'A Child Blessed', this novel questions many probabilities depending on your beliefs, such as will the Temple be rebuilt? Before the second coming of Christ or after the Rapture of the Church?
In this instance Dekker profiles the Jewish point of view, weaving it intricately into an action packed story.
Through the eyes of Israeli Mossad soldier/archaeologist Rebecca Soloman we follow up on a blind man's wild story about the Ark. This Ethiopian Falasha Jew profess to know its exact resting place.

Traveling into Ethiopia with a highly trained team of experts, including one of Israel's best archaeologists, Rebecca pursues the claim. In doing so her life and beliefs are soon challenged by outside forces bringing her to question her mission and all she thought she knew about God's purpose for His children.

Battling Islamic fundamentalists, trained assassins, hostile elements and a brutal landscape, Rebecca might just find more than she expected in this quest for the ultimate prize. But you will have to read it to find out more, no spoilers Folks!

An amazing journey to witness, you will not want to put this one down!

5 Stars!

* This sequel stands on its own, have no fear but I believe you will enjoy reading the first of the Caleb Books series as well!

About the Author:

Ted Dekker began his career writing fantasy novels that explored spirituality (Black, Red and White) and has since become a major force in the mainstream fiction arena with his recent thrillers, "Adam," "Thr3e," "Skin," "Obsessed," "BoneMan's Daughters," which landed in the #10 on the New York Times hardcover bestseller list in 2009, and "The Bride Collector". 

Dekker has been honored with a Christy Award as well as a Gold Medallion Award for Best Fiction. "Thr3e" and his novel "House" became feature films.

Dekker was born to missionaries and grew up among cannibals of Indonesia, and his peculiar upbringing gives him a unique perspective outside the cultural bubble, allowing him the freedom to share provocative insights in his fiction. After leaving Indonesia, Dekker graduated from a multi-cultural high school and took up permanent residence in the United States, earning his B.A. in philosophy and religion, and then went into business.

In the early nineties, Dekker decided to pursue his desire to write fiction, selling his company, moving his family to the mountains of western Colorado, and writing full-time. Two years and three books later his first novel, a supernatural thriller called Heaven's Wager, was published. Dekker proceeded to write 6 more supernatural thrillers, rising to the top of many bestsellers lists and earning himself critical acclaim and legions of fans. "Thr3e" heralded his launch into mainstream fiction and was followed by "Obsessed," "Skin," "Adam," and "BoneMan's Daughters," all of which hit the New York Times bestseller list.

Ted Dekker's fans are comprised of readers of all ages, backgrounds, and belief systems who love his compulsively readable stories, authentic characters, and universal and relatable themes that he explores from a unique point of view.

Visit his website (HERE)

I received a copy of this title from BOOKSNEEZE to review . 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.  

Jesus, A Theography by Leonard Sweet and Frank Viola, Book review

Publisher: Thomas Nelson
ISBN-13: 978-0849947025

Synopsis:

 

Jesus says, “The Scriptures point to me!” (John 5:39 NLT). But what does that mean exactly?

The twenty-seven books of the New Testament are largely a commentary on the Old Testament, and each part of the Bible is a signpost to Jesus. Once this is properly understood, everything changes, including our own identities. In this magisterial work you will discover a Jesus who is larger, more glorious, and more challenging than most of us have ever imagined.

Biographies of Jesus generally have been written by those trying to investigate the historical Jesus with little attention given to the grand narrative of Scripture. On the flip side, those interested in tracing the theology of Scripture are typically disinterested in historical Jesus studies. These two approaches have yet to converge...until now.

Jesus is written for the average reader as well as scholars. Leonard Sweet and Frank Viola (authors of Jesus Manifesto) unfold the greatest story ever told in a fresh and invigorating way. So whether you are a seasoned Christian, a new believer, or someone who is intrigued by Jesus, this book unveils the discoveries of a lifetime, transforming the tired and familiar way we have read the Bible into an electrifying journey of rediscovering Christ.

Introducing a new kind of Jesus biography.
In this compelling work, authors Leonard Sweet and Frank Viola reclaim the entire Bible as a gripping narrative about Jesus Christ.
Virtually every other “Jesus biography” begins with the nativity account in Bethlehem. In this groundbreaking book, Sweet and Viola begin before time, in the Triune God, and tell the complete interconnected story of Jesus from Genesis to Revelation.







crafting together one breathtaking saga that tells the Jesus story in both Old and New Testaments. This flagship book demonstrates clearly that every bit of Scripture is part of the same stunning drama, what the authors refer to as the theography of Jesus Christ.





Jesus: A Theography is the first book ever written to combine historical Jesus studies with biblical theology, crafting together one breathtaking saga that tells the Jesus story in both Old and New Testaments. This flagship book demonstrates clearly that every bit of Scripture is part of the same stunning drama, what the authors refer to as the theography of Jesus Christ.

Jesus: A Theography is the first book ever written to combine historical Jesus studies with biblical theology, crafting together one breathtaking saga that tells the Jesus story in both Old and New Testaments. This flagship book demonstrates clearly that every bit of Scripture is part of the same stunning drama, what the authors refer to as the theography of Jesus Christ.


My thoughts:

The introduction alone of 'Jesus: A Theography' is worth reading this compelling book but the notes section are in itself an entire library! My advice is don't rush the experience! This most intriguing look at Jesus begins before time itself and it truly opens a wider scope of who Jesus Christ really is.

Like a discovery voyage we see each chapter revealing dramatic details about Jesus and the Old and New Testament prophecies giving a whole new dimension to the Scriptures. The authors skillful knowledge of Hebrew and Greek gives a new insight to the texts yet are written with the average reader in mind as well as those more theologically inclined (I belong only to the first!).

As we near the Advent, I particularly enjoyed Mr. Sweet and Viola's description of the Manger scene where Joseph and his family took refuge on that very special night 2000 years ago...I'll credit these two gentlemen for giving me a better understanding of Jesus' birth!

Let me close by saying this is a wonderful rendition of a man's life we revere as the Messiah. You will be inspired by this theography and given a whole new perspective on who Jesus really is!

5 stars (as there is no higher rating but worth much, much more!) and an excellent gift for any believer!


About the Authors:

Leonard Sweet is the E. Stanley Jones Professor of Evangelism at Drew University (NJ), a Distinguished Visiting Professor at George Fox University (OR), and a weekly contributor to sermons.com and the podcast Napkin Scribbles. With some of the highest “influence” rankings of any religious figure in the worlds of social media (Twitter, Facebook), and a pioneer in on- line learning, he has authored numerous articles, sermons, and more than fifty books.

Frank Viola is a popular conference speaker and the best-selling author of numerous books on the deeper Christian life, including Epic Jesus, Revise Us Again, From Eternity to Here, and Jesus Manifesto (coauthored with Leonard Sweet). His blog Beyond Evangelical is rated as one of the most popular in Christian circles today. 

I received this book free from 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.

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.

Needing You Now by Beth Wiseman, Book review

Synopsis:

When big-city life threatens the safety of one of their children, Brad and Darlene Henderson move with their three teenagers from Houston to the tiny town of Round Top, Texas.

Adjusting to small-town life is difficult for the kids, especially fifteen-year-old Grace who is coping in a dangerous way.

Married life hasn’t always been bliss, but their strong faith has carried Brad and Darlene through the difficult times. When Darlene takes a job outside the home for the first time in their marriage, the domestic tension rises.

While working with special needs children at her new job, the widowed father of one of the students starts paying more attention to Darlene than is appropriate. Problem is, she feels like someone is listening to her for the first time in a long time.

If Darlene ever needed God . . . it’s now.

Experience a family’s triumph over lies, betrayal, and loss while still clinging to the One who matters most.

My thoughts:

Best selling author Beth Wiseman has delighted her many fans with tales of the Amish world for years. Perhaps I was influenced by my daughter as she is a big fan but I have enjoyed her stories!

This novel is however quite different and I will admit to some disappointment. A contemporary story is rarely my first choice of reading  material. I much prefer historical fiction work which lets your imagination wonder, provides you with healthy entertainment and even gives you the incentive to delve into the subject by way of further research!

Beth Wiseman introduces us to her latest writing by depicting a Texan family whom at first glance lives a perfectly well balanced life. They recently moved from a cosmopolitan area to live in an old farmhouse in a small town to raise their children in a much healthier environment. 

Reading the resume I caught the 'Special Needs Children' part and felt drawn to it thus the reason for this choice of review.

Unfortunately whilst I allow any author's right to feel a need to branch out, this time I felt something was missing and I had a hard time to concentrate on the plot.

Perhaps it was the fact that special needs children had only a small part in  this story, or that the neighbour's character just did not seem to fit in, or I was not prepared to comprehend the extent to which some teens go to please their family or when under peer pressure! I have since looked into it and it brought many shudders!

Even the locales were not eye catching and nothing really stands out.

Despite the troubled teenager plight and a handful of supporting characters, the story mainly revolves around the attraction felt by two individuals and much like a soap opera is drawn out: lies, betrayals and sheer boredom!

Somewhat fragmented, Needing you Now is the sort of Christian novel I feel you will only briefly remember and lacking the profound inspirational theme Beth Wiseman usually provides her readers. 

Needing you Now has surprised me and less you feel this is not a good book, I will remind you of course that I offer only my opinion!

As such, I can only give it 3 stars!

About the author:

 

When asked how she arrives to certain characters, Beth Wiseman tells us: 'The characters choose me. I start hearing their little voices in my head and they tell me the story I need to write.'

For more on this best-selling author please visit her website (here)

I received this book free from 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.

The Jesus We Missed by Patrick Henry Reardon, Book Review

Synopsis:

Who was Jesus and what was His mission? The Gospels present us with an obvious but profound and compelling thought, that the eternal Word of God became a real man of particular weight and height, with a specific temperament and particular traits of character. He was a Jew, part of a small village community. He became hungry and tired. He felt anger and was moved to compassion. He had a mother and friends. His name was Jesus.

How are we to understand this mystery of Jesus being fully God and also fully man? How do we correctly speak of the real Jesus without falling prey to the skepticism that marks the so-called "quest for a historical Jesus"? In The Jesus We Missed, pastor and scholar Patrick Henry Reardon travels through the Gospel narratives to discover the real Jesus, to see him through the eyes of those who knew him best-the apostles, his community, believers who vividly portrayed him in stories filtered through their own faith. Through these living, breathing accounts, we contemplate who God's Son really was and is-and we understand how he came to redeem and sanctify every aspect of every human life.  

My personal thoughts:

'The Jesus We Missed: The Surprising Truth About The Humanity Of Christ' brings readers an amazing amount of insights into the life of the man we call Jesus. Richly detailed and perfectly flowing, it gives anyone who wishes to know more about Jesus' life, an entirely different perspective on this charismatic persona we think we know. 

Patrick Henry Reardon argues that most Christians know little about Christ's childhood since the Apostles mentions little prior to his baptism at the age of 30. The author also reminds us the Gospels of Mark and John the Evangelist begins Jesus' history at the ministry of John the Baptist whilst clearly both Matthew and Luke Gospels reveal much more information on a younger Jesus. Most of these facts are well known to believers and non believers but have we perhaps overlooked something?

For those of us who yearn to learn just a little more, this is a wonderful compilation of biblical facts we need to rediscover! Chapter after chapter the author showcases the 'real' Jesus growing up, his wisdom at a very tender age, his baptism and warm relationship with John the Baptist to give just a few examples.

Let me share my favourite: Chapter 7, Jesus at prayer... 

A remarkable insight on Jesus' human side from a truly gifted scholar! 

Note: Be sure to check the extensive notes, a treasure in itself!

A compelling recount of the Jewish carpenter we call Jesus and the life he gave for us!

Brilliant! 5 stars!!

About the author:

 

A gifted scholar who provides his readers with careful attention to historical and literary details Father Patrick Henry Reardon is also Touchstone Senior Editor. If I had to describe the author I would do so in two adjectives: Conservative and Eclectic! Read more (here).

I received this book free from BOOKSNEEZE/THOMAS NELSON as part of their blogger review program. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising.

Tyndale, Book Review

Book description:

A beautiful literary tribute to William Tyndale, the poet-martyr-expatriate-outlaw-translator who gave us our English Bible.

The English Bible was born in defiance. It was also born in exile, in flight, in a kind of exodus. And these are the very elements that empowered William Tyndale in his bid to bring the English Scripture to the common citizen. Being "a stranger in a strange land," the very homesickness he struggled with, gave life to the words of Jesus, Paul, and to the wandering Moses. Tyndale's efforts ultimately cost him his life, a price he was certain he would have to pay. But his contribution to English spirituality is measureless.

Even five centuries after his death at the stake, Tyndale's presence looms wherever English is spoken. His single word innovations, such as "Passover," "beautiful," and "atonement" allowed the common man to more fully understand God's blessings and promises. His natural lyricism shines in phrases like "Let not your hearts be troubled," and "for thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory." Every time we say the Lord's Prayer as it is written in the King James Bible or use the word "love" as it is written in 1 Corinthians 13 or bless others with "The Lord bless thee and keep thee, the Lord make his face to shine upon thee," we are reminded of the rich bounty Tyndale has given us.

Although Tyndale has been somewhat elusive to his biographers, Teems brings wit and wisdom to the story of the man known as the "architect of the English language," the English Paul who defied a kingdom and a tyrannical church to introduce God to the plowboy.

My thoughts:

With such a book description my curiosity was piqued and I requested this book knowing little else than the name of the man who gave the world the English Bible.

The King James version was the first complete English Bible made available to those unable to read Latin or Greek. In 'Tyndale' we discover the fascinating persona of the gentle man responsible for the majority of the translation of the Scriptures,  and this from the Latin, Greek and original Hebrew 'linguis'.

A graduate of Oxford University William Tyndale was blessed with a clarity of mind and a love of the Scriptures which became the driving force in his life.

In direct conflict with the Medieval Roman Catholic Church Tyndale believed the Bible should be available to all. Branded an heretic, his letters and works, deemed blasphemous by the Church, were confiscated and even burned. Yet he continued throughout his life to seek clearer words for his translations, thus making God a legible, English speaking God.

David Teems extensive research and documentation reveals a fascinating man and the Bible whose first English translation was printed in the year 1526. Tyndale was exiled, virtually hunted and his life was continually threatened. This contemporary of such as Thomas More and Shakespeare translated the New and the Old Testament yet he remains uncelebrated!

Imprisoned in Vilvorde, Belgium he was finally executed on 6 Octobre 1536. The Church thought to silence him forever...They were wrong.

It has taken me almost 6 weeks to finish this book and it is truly a page turner! This is after all an important part of history and I love to read anything historical particularly when it is this well told!

This blog post could not bring justice to this incredible compilation! Interested readers should know the extensive bibliography and notes included with Teems' book are of enormous worth!  Anyone wishing to understand the historical issues behind Tyndale amazing life's work should read this!

Finally, through David Teems in-depth catalog of Tyndale's beliefs, letters and works, we may now 'visualize' the man behind the English Bible and thus give him perhaps a little of the status he so deserves.

In turn Mr. Teems' work deserves 5 stars and a special place on my bookshelves!

About the author:

'Behold the Lamb of God
I am the way, the truth, and the life...

Seek, and ye shall find
In Him we live, move, and have our being...'

On his website (here) David Teems reminds us that the 'King James Bible was published in 1611 and thus it  allowed God to speak to us in his accustomed beauty and highness, and with an English voice.

The translation of William Tyndale some eighty-five years earlier, at a time when an English translation of the Bible was not only against the law in England, it was punishable by death was the beginning...'

  

I received this book free from BOOKSNEEZE Publishers as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not asked to write a positive review and the opinions expressed are entirely my own.

I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

The Grace Effect, Book review

'FINDING THEMSELVES IN SUCH A WORLD AT THE DAWN OF THEIR EXISTENCE, SO YOUNG, SO DEFENSELESS, WHAT MUST GO ON IN THESE SOULDS FRESH FROM GOD?'

(Les Miserables, Victor Hugo)

Book description:

"Simply defined, the 'grace effect' is an observable phenomenon-that life is demonstrably better where authentic Christianity flourishes."

What does Christianity give us beyond televangelists, potlucks, and bad basketball leagues?  Not much, according to the secular Left.  The world, they say, would be a better place without it. 

Historian and Christian apologist Larry Taunton has spent much of his career refuting just this sort of thinking, but when he encounters Sasha, a golden-haired Ukrainian orphan girl whose life has been shaped by atheistic theorists, he discovers an unlikely champion for the transforming power of grace. 

Through the narrative of Sasha's redemption, we see the false promises of socialism; the soul-destroying influence of unbelief; and how a society cultivates its own demise when it rejects the ultimate source of grace.  We see, in short, the kind of world the atheists would give us: a world without Christianity-cold, pitiless, and graceless.

And yet, as Sasha shows us, it is a world that is not beyond the healing power of "the grace effect."  Occasionally infuriating, often amusing, but always inspiring, The Grace Effect will have you cheering for the courageous little girl who shamed the academic elitists of our day.

"This highly readable book is a collection of powerful insights into the long-term consequences of spiritual indifference and, above all, a remarkable example of how to conquer it."

- Dr. Olivera Petrovich - 

"What would a world without Christianity look like? We don't have to guess because such a world does exist: it exists in the current and former Communist bloc. Through the inspiring story of a little girl born in Eastern Europe and now living in America, Larry Taunton draws a sharp contrast between the life-giving influence of Christianity and the worn out theories of atheism and radical secularism.  The effect--The Grace Effect--is nothing less than powerful and moving."

- Dinesh D'Souza -

And now my review:

A picture, a line or paragraph, even the cover of a book can compel us to reach out and find out more about its history and such was 'The Grace Effect' for me!

Larry Alex Taunton is the author of 'The Grace Effect' but also the founder and executive director of

Fixed Point Foundation, best described as a bridge between the sacred and the secular.

Debates with Christian scholars argues that society as a whole would be better off if Christianity and therefore Christian morality were all together abandoned and here is Larry Taunton's answer:

"That's been tried." "The 20th century was an expansion in secularism that left no less than 60 million dead. What is the result? Human beings are treated like commodities. That's the result of decades of an anti-Christian, godless mindset, where human beings are seen as less valuable than the state. It necessarily leads to a view of life that is devaluing. I'm trying to give a glimpse of where our own society will go." 

The Tauntons glimpsed all this and more whilst spending 36 days in Ukraine, to adopt daughter Sasha from an orphanage! Let me start by saying ANYONE who says they are Christian and loves children should read their story. It certainly opened my eyes to the evils of corrupted regimes!

The Grace Effect tells us Sasha's story but also of the many debates and discussions of Mr. Taunton with Atheists, some even personal friends.

Deftly weaving a heart gripping recount of his family adoption of a special needs ten year old girl from Ukraine, their trials and tribulations, the corrupted regime and the lack of Christian love displayed throughout it all, Taunton reaches out with an unforgettable explanation for the grace effect! 

An amazing book, beautifully written and worth every 5 stars I am giving it! 

Read, come and witness as a true Christian and never forget!

Meet the Author and his daughter:

Larry Taunton is founder and executive director of Fixed Point Foundation, an initiative dedicated to defending and promoting Christianity in the public square.  In that role, he has engaged some of the most vociferous critics of the Christian faith.

More (here)

I received this book free from BOOKSNEEZE as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not asked to write a positive review and the opinions expressed are entirely my own.

I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Has God Spoken? Book review

Book description:

Compelling evidence that the Bible is God's Holy Word.

Using the memorable acronym MAPS, radio host and Bible scholar Hank Hanegraaff masterfully reveals four proofs that confirm the divine origin of the Bible.

• M represents the strength of the manuscript itself as many actual fragments have been located
• A stands for the archaeological proofs that have been uncovered
• P is for the prophecy that has accurately predicted events
• S represents the scriptural synergy found in the unity, consistency, and harmony of the sixty-six books

These clearly presented proofs provide powerful indicators that confirm the trustworthiness and divine nature of Scripture, that God has indeed spoken, and that the Bible is the reliable repository of His words.

My review:

Some of you might be familiar with the 'Bible answer man' on Christian radio or perhaps with the books Hank Hanegraaff has written. When it comes to bible topics he is very knowledgeable as many college students will attest!

In 'Has God Spoken: Proof of the Bible's Divine Inspiration', Hanegraaff's biblical knowledge manifest itself again with extensive historical facts, archaeological discoveries and countless research. You might not always agree with him, but there is no doubt this man is knowledgeable and speaks in such a way, you listen and found yourself living your faith!

In typical Hanegraaff fashion, he uses acronyms and personally I found it a very helpful tool to remember specific facts, keeping the information flowing, all in a clear and concise format!

'Has God spoken?' is the author's answer to anyone who questions the authenticity of the Bible and would prefer to think of its contents as yet another faerie tale. 

Hanegraaff believes with all his heart this is truly God's inspired word and uses archeology, predictive prophecies, manuscripts evidences and historical facts in a format readily understandable for all: the Bible is Divine!

With compelling evidences he demonstrates the Gospel of Mark was definitively written in a first hand account, the disciple witnessing many of the related events. As to the prophecies of Daniel, Isaiah and John, again Hanegraaff clearly demonstrates these were written as described in the bible.

Archaeological finds also shows that so called errors brought about by Scriptures copyists due to copies made from others copies are in fact style errors, not emanating from any deliberate cause or fatigue as some would have us believe.

Perhaps the most interesting factor in 'Has God Spoken?' is pertaining to Daniel's words regarding the abomination of desolation and the rebuilding of the Temple of Jerusalem. In this Hanegraaf shines once again when he reasons the abomination has already happened and Jesus IS the rebuilt Temple!

An excellent addition to any Pastor's library or interested Christian, this is a compelling book worth 5 stars!

Meet Hank Hanegraaff:

Hanegraaff is the author of several award-winning, best-selling books, including The Prayer of Jesus, Christianity in Crisis, and Resurrection, the latter providing a stirring and persuasive defense of the central event in Christianity. 

Resurrection and Christianity in Crisis each won the Gold Medallion for Excellence in Christian Literature awarded by the Evangelical Christian Publisher’s Association. 

More (here) and you might like to check also his blog (here).

I received this book free from BOOKSNEEZE as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not asked to write a positive review and the opinions expressed are entirely my own.

I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

A Place Called Blessing, Book Review

I have found on occasion that even 'Christian' novels will have a certain amount of violence or what I shall describe veritably, unchristian language or actions. Life changing stories brings often a certain amount of wariness on my part. Still I believe I try to be objective and keep an open mind when choosing a book.

I was singularly attracted by the title 'A Place Called Blessing' written by John Trent, Ph D. The resume sounded certainly interesting and once I began reading the first chapter, I quickly realized I made the right choice!

Life is not always easy and for many families it can be heartbreaking and even unhealthy. For Josh and his two brothers, sleeping on the floor and often going to bed hungry is almost a daily occurrence.

Their parents are drunks, often leaving the children alone until one night disaster strikes. What follows is life changing as well as disastrous and when another tragedy splits up the family, Josh is left all by himself. 

Ten years later, he is out on his own, an eighteen year old looking for a job and somewhere to live.

As we read on, his life seems to be going just downhill until one day he meets a friend at work and positive changes finally happens for Josh! He learns to trust again!

There will be more heartbreak in his young life but in the end, Josh finds there is such a place called Blessing!

This is a book that literally grabs you and I found it to be an excellent addition to any family library!

The many lessons it reflected will bring much encouragement to parents and teens alike and I give it a resounding 5 stars!

I received this book free from Booksneeze as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not asked to write a positive review and the opinions expressed are entirely my own.

I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

The Sacred Journey, Book Review

Once again Charles Foster has penned an excellent book, this time about his own Sacred Journey while relating wonderful stories about fellow nomads and travelers around the world.
Written in a flowing and easy to read format and superbly edited to boot, this is one book you will not put down until finished!

The Sacred Journey, the final book in the Ancient Practices series, reminds us that it is the journey that matters, not the destination.
"A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step" said Lao Tzu. Ultimately such a journey reflects also our own spiritual discovery about ourselves.

In the first chapter of the Sacred Journey is included an interesting historical view of Pilgrimage, leading us on a narrative that begins with the first nomads to present day travelers.
How would you prepare yourself for such a journey? What would you take with you?
In Matthew we read "Take no gold, silver or copper, no bag for your journey, or two tunics, sandals or staff".
Charles Foster agrees you do not need much. He shares he himself carries a copy of The Odyssey (excellent choice!) and a small zip up Bible albeit perhaps out of habit.
Items such as an extra shirt or socks are more than enough as it can be washed.
What you will take with you depends of course where you are going.

So imagine yourself undertaking such a journey, as the first pilgrims often did through unchartered territory, facing countless challenges yet meeting others like you, in search of the most Sacred...
Charles Foster has once again given us food for thought!

All of us are in fact on a journey, and for most of us this is a journey through life itself as we provide for our families and ourselves. But a pilgrimage is also a journey to the ultimate oneness as the author points out.
Each of us yearns for more for we are born nomads, searching constantly for something different, something better. As urban dwellers we soon stiffle however the wonderlust within us.
There are however amongst us those who follow in Jesus' footsteps and wander through the mountains and the wilderness on their own sacred journey...
As Jesus said to his disciples: "Follow me".

Ultimately pilgrimage changes people, physically and spiritually and what a journey it can be...

On a last note, there is an excellent study guide and wonderful notes included in the book.
The more to help you on your journey!

I cannot but give this one 5 stars!

I received this book free from Booksneeze/Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not asked to write a positive review and the opinions expressed are entirely my own.

I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

The Final Summit, Book Review

When Booksneeze offered the possibility to review this latest book of Andy Andrews I immediately acccepted.
I very much enjoyed The Heart mender which I also reviewed here.
The 11th of April (posting schedule) came and went and I will first tell you, this is one book not to be rushed.
Andy Andrews has this particular knack for involving the reader body and soul in his books!
The Final Summit was a hard one to put down and I was not disappointed: I very much enjoyed reading it!

"Many years have passed since David Ponder discovered the Seven Decisions during a divine journey through time. Now 74 years old, Ponder has lost the one thing that mattered to him most—his wife, Ellen. Despite his personal and professional success, he now sits alone at the top of his 55-story high-rise contemplating the unthinkable, just as he did 28 years ago.

However, just as things are looking their darkest, Ponder is informed through divine channels that he is needed now more than ever. This is mankind’s last chance. Millennia of avarice, pride, and hate have sent humanity hurtling toward inevitable disaster, and far from its original purpose. There is only one solution that can reset the compass and right the ship—and it is only two words. Ponder, along with a cast of famous historical figures, must work quickly to discover this solution. The fate of the world rests on their shoulders."

This is a book I recommend you read slowly and ponder upon. Andy Andrews's faith and knowledge of History, his very definition of human tendency's to ignore certain signs and rewrite this history to make it easier to understand will make you think again upon what you thought you knew about our world!

"What does humanity need to do, individually and collectively, to restore itself to the pathway toward successful civilization?"

Here is the question: When Time is running out and you must decide what to do when you do not know what to do... Which of the Seven Decisions would you think the most important? (no hinting, you must read it and discovered for yourself!)

But I will tell you however my favourite...From Union Colonel Joshua Chamberlain who hastily wrote the words, "I am a person of action" on a scrap of paper.

Clearly, this is a book you must "experience" and Andy Andrews has woven a well written story that will leave you indeed pondering. Each chapter will inspire you to involve yourself and add your name to the "personal declaration"!
Time travelling in itself is of course always enticing and meeting other travellers whom might find a way to change the world...Oh the Dreams...

Finally I will recommend heartily the Author's notes and the reader's guide to help you of course to discover even more about other Travellers...Who knew?

I give this one 5 stars!

I received this book free from Booksneeze as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not asked to write a positive review and the opinions expressed are entirely my own.

I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.