It Is Finished by David Wilkerson, Book review

Publisher: Chosen Books; Reprint edition (April 1, 2013)

ISBN-13: 978-0800795498

Synopsis:

Founder of Teen Challenge Shows How to Overcome Persistent Sins

This is David Wilkerson's capstone teaching, poured out from a heart that discovered the power God has given his people to triumph over sin. Through Wilkerson's expert ability to blend teaching with personal application, he shows that the key to defeating life-controlling habits is found in one thing: the new covenant God enacted with his people.

In today's era of pop psychology, most Christians battle temptation and sin through self-help techniques or gritty self-will. Even Wilkerson, through decades of ministry that led hundreds of thousands to salvation and deliverance, struggled to know true peace as he battled his own "besetting sins." Determined to find victory, Wilkerson came to grasp the stunning reality that the vast love of God provides the spiritual resources believers need to obey his every command.

Gathered from some of his most prominent sermons, this is one of Wilkerson's most powerful teachings--one that will redeem countless lives into the life-giving experience of purity.


My thoughts:


The legendary name of David Wilkerson brings to mind to most of us a well known book (later a 1970 movie) called The Cross and the Switchblade, it itself a recount of Wilkerson's early ministry amongst troubled teens and gang violence in the streets of New York . 

In 'It Is Finished', the late preacher's recalls perhaps his best known sermons about finding lasting victory over sin. Complete with extensive notes about the many misconceptions of the true meaning of the New Covenant, the book includes ample examples, discussions, answers and profound testimonies of the many reached out to by this believer in Christ. 

Wilkerson does not hide that he too struggled to understand the real message behind the words 'It Is Finished.' We say we believe but let's face it, we all feel our circumstances are 'different'.
Yet if we can accept our problem is not sin, but our lack of faith in God's covenant promises, we can go forward joyfully and prevail.

When Christ died on the cross, our sins were washed away but this does not mean we can go on and continue on our troubled path obviously. 
In Matthew 18:11 we read 'The Son of Man has come to save that which is lost.' The Lord is telling us we cannot save ourselves, our salvation depends entirely upon Him.

Wilkerson's words brings a clear message: 'Jesus made it easy for you. Simply place childlike trust in His finished work of the Cross. His covenant promises and provisions are found only there.'

As a student of His word, I do not always feel comfortable in revealing my own thoughts about redemption, but I can attest it gets easier when I just place my trust onto Him.

Well written and worth 5 stars, a great addition to any believer's library!



About the Author:

David Wilkerson (1931-2011) was the founder of Teen Challenge and World Challenge and founding pastor of Times Square Church in New York City. 

He authored more than thirty books, including the bestselling The Cross and the Switchblade and Knowing God by Name. He ministered to people worldwide and was still ministering on the day of his death. 

Visit his ministery website (HERE) to learn more!

 

I received this book from BETHANY HOUSE - CHOSEN BOOKS 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.

Courage To Change by Elizabeth Maddrey, Book review

Publisher: HopeSprings Books (April 3, 2013)

ISBN-13: 978-1938708138

Synopsis:
 

Book Two of the 'Grant Us Grace' Series. When Phil Reid became a Christian and stopped drinking, his hard-partying wife Brandi divorced him. Reeling and betrayed, he becomes convinced Christians should never remarry, and resolves to guard his heart. Allison Vasak has everything in her life under control, except for one thing. Her heart is irresistibly drawn to fellow attorney and coworker, Phil. 

Though she knows his history and believes that women should not initiate relationships, she longs to make her feelings known. As Phil and Allison work closely together to help a pregnant teen, Allison melts his defenses. But when Brandi discovers Phil's new relationship, she decides that though she doesn't want him, no one else can have him. Can Phil and Allison's love weather the chaos Brandi brings into their lives?

My thoughts:


In turn jocular and sedate, Elizabeth Maddrey's 'Courage to Change' provides  genuine entertainment for anyone looking for a good Christian novel to enjoy on long summer evenings. 

Perhaps the most refreshing aspect of book #2 in 'Grant Us Grace' series is the constancy of the author's faith when dealing with sensitive subjects, in this instance teen pregnancy, adoption as alternative to abortion or dealing with the aftermath of a nasty divorce. 
Never critical, Elizabeth Maddrey gives the impression of being a good listener, someone whom you would like to reach out to in times of self doubt!
Informative as well as discerning this is the sort of contemporary novel which would appeal to the younger crowd mostly yet I too found it consuming. 

As her main protagonists, Phil and Allison wins your heart by their sheer honesty and commitment to do the right thing despite obstacles. You cannot but wish to give each of them a nudge or two as they contemplate their own imperfections and the possibility of a future together but that's alright too. Phil's ex-wife however was decidedly not your atypical divorcee, at least I hope so! 

Maddrey's latest novel is well worth reading! 
4 Stars!

 

About the Author:

Elizabeth Maddrey began writing stories as soon as she could form the letters properly and has never looked back. Though her practical nature and love of math and organization steered her into computer science for college and graduate school, she has always had one or more stories in progress to occupy her free time. 

When she isn’t writing, Elizabeth is a voracious consumer of books and has mastered the art of reading while undertaking just about any other activity.

Visit her website (HERE).

 I received this book from BOOKCRASH 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.

Happy Mum's Day!

The measure of a good Mother...

 

They say the child chooses
the parent before
they are conceived

God gave me lists
of mother's names
and pictures of them too.

I looked and looked
they all looked the same
and then I saw you.

Who is this woman?
I asked the Lord
She looks quite nice to me.
You have chosen well my child.
And he spoke these words to me.

She is kind and gentle
and very wise
and she will hold you
close to her
when you cry.

Her eyes will shine
when you take your first step
and smile at your delight.

She will show her pride
when you succeed
and pick you up
when you fail.

She will work hard
to give you the best she can
and rock you to sleep with weary time worn hands.

She will shelter you
on stormy days
and dry your fears away.
She will bask with you
in sunshine on
sunny summer days.

And when you are grown
like you soon will be
She will still be there
To comfort thee.

I choose her.
I told the Lord
For none like her
I've seen before.

And the day came
when I was born.
I had chosen well
of this I'm sure.

I picked you
above the rest
and because I did
My life is blessed

(Source: Ode to Motherhood by F. Pilato)

HAPPY MUM'S DAY!

It Happened At The Fair by Deeanne Gist, Book review and GIVEAWAY

Publisher: Howard Books; Original edition (April 30, 2013)

ISBN-13: 978-1451692372

Synopsis:

Gambling everything—including the family farm—Cullen McNamara travels to the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair with his most recent invention. But the noise in the fair’s Machinery Hall makes it impossible to communicate with potential buyers. In an act of desperation, he hires Della Wentworth, a teacher of the deaf, to tutor him in the art of lip-reading.


The young teacher is reluctant to participate, and Cullen has trouble keeping his mind on his lessons while intently watching her lips. Like the newly invented Ferris wheel, he is caught in a whirl between his girl back home, his dreams as an inventor, and his unexpected attraction to his new tutor. Can he keep his feet on the ground, or will he be carried away?

My thoughts:


Most readers will agree, some books just stand out and this one is definitively ranking in the top ten of my list of most entertaining. A keeper and one I would suggest to anyone looking for a gift!
Deanne's vivavious description of a sweet romance amidst the 1893's World Fair was the perfect enticement for some 'me' time. I was totally immersed in her descriptive of this period  and credit the story of Della and Cullen with a few dreams of my own. Well done!

A perfect combination of historical facts and fiction, It Happened At The Fair reflects the wealth of love and care this author puts in her writing. It also brings to readers a marvelous fountain of information and even photos of this world event!
Whilst she has taken a few liberties, all clearly acknowledge in the afterword, the author was undoubtdedly as stimulated by the fair as I was when I first heard of it. As a cultural and social event, the world fair of 1893 was a tremendous influence on the 20th Century and a complete success. With 6.8 millions visitors in attendance, the exposition located on the shores of Lake Michigan provided a template for other events and changed America forever with its astonishing legacy. Nothing ever compared to it as it gave new perspectives for the world of commerce and technology.

Della and Cullen's story blends in this grandiose background yet gives an opportunity for readers to feel their touching romance. Obviously a true romantic at heart, Deanne describes Della's position as a teacher working with the Deaf at a time when too often a deaf person was ostrasized for signing. Cullen in turn is the  young farmer turned inventor who is struggling with a hearing loss. 

Deanne Gist proved to be a superb historical fiction writer which coupled with her discernebly romantical temperament, gives readers a captivating love story you will not want to miss! 

5 Stars!!

Note: Be sure to read the author's notes for additional information on the World's Columbian Exposition's  and (HERE) for its amazing legacy!

Landing page: 

http://litfusegroup.com/author/dgist

About the Author:

Deeanne Gist—known to her family, friends, and fans as Dee—has rocketed up bestseller lists and captured readers everywhere with her very fun, very original historicals. She has received numerous RITA nominations, two consecutive Christy Awards, and rave reviews. Deeanne has a background in education and journalism and a degree from Texas A&M. She has written for People, Parents, and Parenting.

Vist her website (HERE)

Deeanne Gist is celebrating the release of It Happened at the Fair with an iPad Mini Giveaway and a Live Author Chat Webcast event {5/22}!

  One "fair" winner will receive:

• An iPad Mini
• A $25 iTunes gift card

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on May 21st. Winner will be announced at the "It Happened at the Fair" Live Webcast Event on May 22nd. Connect with Deeanne for an evening of book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! Deeanne will also be taking questions from the audience and giving away books and fun gift certificates throughout the evening.

So grab your copy of It Happened at the Fair and join Deeanne and friends on the evening of May 22nd for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 22nd!

 I received this book 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. 

Roses Have Thorns by Sandra Byrd, Book review & GIVEAWAY

Publisher: Howard Books; Original edition (April 9, 2013)

ISBN-13: 978-1439183168

Synopsis:


From the acclaimed author of To Die For comes a stirring novel told that sheds new light on Elizabeth I and her court. 

Like Philippa Gregory and Alison Weir, Sandra Byrd has attracted countless fans for evoking the complexity, grandeur, and brutality of the Tudor period. In her latest tour de force, she poses the question: What happens when serving a queen may cost you your marriage--or your life?

In 1565, seventeen-year-old Elin von Snakenborg leaves Sweden on a treacherous journey to England. Her fiance has fallen in love with her sister and her dowry money has been gambled away, but ahead of her lies an adventure that will take her to the dizzying heights of Tudor power. Transformed through marriage into Helena, the Marchioness of Northampton, she becomes the highest-ranking woman in Elizabeth's circle. But in a court that is surrounded by Catholic enemies who plot the queen's downfall, Helena is forced to choose between her unyielding monarch and the husband she's not sure she can trust--a choice that will provoke catastrophic consequences.

Vividly conjuring the years leading up to the beheading of Mary Queen of Scots, Roses Have Thorns is a brilliant exploration of treason, both to the realm and to the heart.

My thoughts:

History has taught us something of the English Court various intrigues, tumultuous political and religious plots yet I must credit Sandra Byrd's 'Roses Have Thorns' for bringing it just as vividly as a full screen movie seen through the eyes of young Elin of Sweden. 

Arriving in England in 1565 after months of hazardous traveling to reach the English soil, Elin Von Snakenborg discovers the stupendous world of the Tudors in all its glory. This is a time for New Age, a time of illumination, amazing discoveries and much treachery amongst nobles.
When the young Swede decides to remain at Court she soon becomes an intimate of the Queen herself. Elin is now known as Helena, Marchioness of Northampton, and we discover in her a most remarkable woman living in court yet struggling to retain some measure of privacy for herself and her family.

Sandra Byrd's story gives readers an idea of the entitlement of a lady in waiting position's, its multiple duties and much sought after power, yet also the sacrifices it ultimately required in such a tumultuous time. 

Anyone enjoying this time period will delight in all the glitter and myriad of details provided betwixt the pages including the footnotes and reading group guide. 

As for myself, as much as I love history, I found the overall plot somewhat prosaic despite its colourful ostentation.
I will summarize by saying I am relieved I did not live in such a troubled time!

4 Stars!


About the Author:

After earning her first rejection at the age of thirteen, bestselling author Sandra Byrd has now published more than forty books. Her adult fiction debut, Let Them Eat Cake, was a Christy Award finalist, as was her first historical novel, To Die For: A Novel of Anne Boleyn. To Die For was also named by Library Journal as a Best Books Pick for 2011 and The Secret Keeper: A Novel of Kateryn Parr, was named a Library Journal Best Books Pick for 2012. Roses Have Thorns: A Novel of Elizabeth I published in April, 2013.

Sandra has also published dozens of books for tweens and teens. 

Visit her website (HERE)

One lucky winner will receive a copy of Sandra Byrd's novel compliments of the author and HOWARD BOOKS, the promoter!
I like to make it easy as you know by now. Just place a comment on this post by Midnight on 17th May 2013. Like everyone I like comments after all!
Using Random.org a winner will be chosen and his/her name will be announced on this blog on Saturday the 18th of May 2013. I will then forward the winner's name to the promoter! Voila!
 

Best wishes to all,

I received these books from HOWARD BOOKS 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. 

Can't Wait Willow! Book review & GIVEAWAY

Publisher: Ideals Children's Books (April 1, 2013)

ISBN-13: 978-0824956486

Synopsis:

Choose Right. Shine Bright.
The first book in a new series about helping children learn how to make good choices.
 
Willow is so excited that the Over-the-Top Circus has finally come to town! The only problem is that when left to make her own decisions, she can't say 'no' to her favorite things. On the way to the show, she is distracted by enticing treats and fun that she just can't turn down.

Willow arrives late and is sad to find that not only has she has run out of time, but money, and she won't be able to enjoy the pink cotton candy she's been dreaming of. Willow is given valuable advice and a second chance and is ultimately taught the lesson that sometimes in life you have to say 'no' to good things to end up with something great!

My thoughts:

Christy Ziglar brings us a wonderful book in the series Shine Bright Kids title Can't -Wait Willow!
Can't - wait Willow is all about choices and little ones will love to check out the beautiful illustrations and follow the little star indicative of the right and wrong choices made by Willow! Be prepare to read this one many times!

Sometimes it is very hard to say no and Willow's lesson in choosing the right thing will give Parents, Grandparents and children the perfect opportunity to learn together.

Part of a delightful series to provide education, entertainment and of course inspire little ones, this first book promises to be a hit with one and all!

Christy Ziglar admits she used to dream of joining the Circus as a child and Willow's anticipation of the Circus coming to town will ring a bell or two with most of us! A perfect opportunity follows for Willow to make her choice but she did not think ahead and soon must face the consequence!

Well written of course and including Luanne Marten's delightful illustrations, this book is well worth 5 stars!



About the Author:

Christy Ziglar is passionate about helping people shine their brightest! The founder of Shine Bright Kid Company, mother of twins, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional and niece of legendary motivator and the world’s original optimist, Zig Ziglar, Christy hopes the Shine Bright Kids series will bring practical life skills and ageless wisdom to the next generation.

For more visit her website (HERE)

I am always thrilled to pass along quality books and this one is sure to please Mums and Dads, Grandparents and little ones everywhere!

Thanks to the generous offer of PROPELLER, I have the opportunity to offer one lucky winner a copy of Christy's book!

To enter is simple: Place a comment on this post and your name will be entered in the giveaway. Be sur eto include a way to contact you for winning confirmation.

You have until Midnight 17th May 2013 to enter. 
Using Random.org a winner will be chosen and his/her name will be posted on the 18th May 2013 on this blog!
Winner will be send a copy of the book as soon as I have confirmation of postal address!
Voila! Easy!!

I received this book from PROPELLER 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. 

Sweet Life, Apologies and Giveaways...

When life is slow and sweet, you tend to forget the rest of the world...
Outch!
Time however flies and I forgot to post the name of our winner for...

So with little fanfare but much apologies, here is the winner of Hey God, I've got some guy named Jonah in my stomach...(see review HERE)

Kayla Rice!

May 1, 2013 at 1:16 PM

This looks like a good read. Thank you for this review :) I am a new follower!!

Thank you for your patience Kayla! I will contact you shortly to get a postal address and the promoter will send you the book!

A word of thanks to FLYBY Promotions for all their heartfelt support and giveaways!

 

 

Note to Readers: Be sure to stop by for more giveaways in the next day or so!!