Book Review

Have you heard of the Shakers? They were a religious sect in Kentucky a couple of hours from where I live. Appropriately named Shaker Village is still there today offering historical tours and insight into this unique way of life. This is far different than Amish. They are set apart from the world but in a much different way. Kentucky author Ann Gabhart has written some novels about the Shakers. I love them all and anything else she writes. Her down home style lures me in within a few pages and I am hooked.

Her book “The Innocent, A Novel” was one of those fabulous books. I was invested within a few pages of reading this 402 page paperback. It was easy to become emotionally invested in Carlyn Kearney and her big dog, Asher, as the author vividly described their life in troubled Kentucky. As I read through the trials and tribulations this post civil war woman endured, I kept thinking that this would make a great movie. I wanted to watch this book! It had history, suspense, romance, mystery, information on the Shaker religion, a good looking sheriff, pretty leading lady, a massive dog, villain, and more. Kentucky always makes a nice setting for a movie, too.

Carlyn’s husband has been gone in the Civil War for a long time with no word. She and her dog are left to take care of their cabin and homestead. They live near the Shaker Village. With twists and turns things happen and she must take shelter there. In this story you will find heroes, villains, mystery, adventure, romance, intrigue, action, and inspiration. Wow! All packed into one book.

The author took this reader to the Shaker Village on a trip that seemed real. I learned about their views on worship, work, meals, and marriage. They certainly have strange ideas on marriage. The story was heavily sprinkled with scripture and a good inspirational message to “just pray”. The characters were well described and relatable. Some became friends and others were downright unlikeable. At points I chuckled and others I teamed up. Best of all were the twists, turns, and surprises.

I expected to like this book since I like Christian historical fiction, but I loved it. The descriptive language, dialogue and colloquialism used by Ann Gabhart made a smooth, enjoyable read. The well researched, well organized, and well written story made a book I could not put down. If you haven’t read anything by this talented author you should give one of her books a try. She has more Shaker novels, some other fiction, and a cozy mystery series. I rated this a 5 out of 5 stars. Anyone who enjoys Christian fiction, historical or romance, even Amish or Quaker will enjoy this book. I highly recommend it.

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is–His good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:2

If you are looking for an encouraging book for the rest of Lent, I have it.  Recently I read a devotional that was extremely moving.  It was one that made me think and reaffirmed that God does provide for His children.  He provides for all of our needs, physical, emotional, and spiritual.  All we have to do is ask.  You will love this inspiring book.  It is amazing.

“Jehovah Jireh: The God Who Provides” by author Mary J. Nelson is a 254 page paperback devotional by Barbour Publishing with thick, durable pages. This book is meant to be read and last. Divided into sixty short chapters this is a wonderful book for daily inspiration. The chapters have a story, about a person, some Biblical, followed by a devotional or life application study on what this means to us and how to apply it to our lives. Concluding with a prayer on the chapter’s subject, this gives readers time to bring what they have read and learned to God for His help in their own lives.

This is the first book I have read by author Nelson and I loved it. She did a fantastic job of researching and organizing her work. Her book brings glory to God, is easy to read and understand, is relatable, interesting, deep, and encouraging. Everything a reader needs in a devotional or Christian book is in it.

The topics are abundant and will certainly touch most everyone. Reading about trusting God, forgiveness, burdens, trials, contentment, hope, and rejoicing are just a few things the reader will find in this gem of a book. The author gives multiple stories that Jehovah Jireh, our God does indeed provide for us, always. The devotions are thought provoking and will stay with you long after you close the book. You will be encouraged and ready to face your day with a smile.

I would highly recommend this book. It is excellent. Not only will you delve into scripture, you will be moved, enlightened, and encouraged. This is a book that will help you draw closer to Jehovah. I rated it a 5 out of 5 stars. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

“Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.”  Matt. 6:33 NLT

 

 

“Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me.” True, how true. Where would I be without grace? Lost. “I once was lost but now am found…” God’s grace is far reaching an abundant, as ours should be. This devotional is one of the best that I have read on grace. It impacted my life and made me realize grace should be given as well as received. Read my review and then the book. You will be blessed.

Spoken from the Heart: Choosing Grace by author Cheri Swalwell is an inspirational book designed to help readers deepen their understanding about grace. It stirs the mind to think about grace and ponder where grace is in our lives. Not just grace received from God and others but also grace given to others. In the beginning of her book, the author cites Merriam-Webster’s definition of grace as “a virtue coming from God,…an act or instance of kindness, courtesy, or clemency.” Clemency is defined as mercy. I know God gives grace and mercy, but do I? Right from the beginning the author had my wheels turning as she stepped on my toes. Ouch!

The author takes readers into her personal life as she talks about grace, her life word for a year from God. She tells tales on herself and takes us through issues many of us have tackled ourselves. Sharing our opinions, yelling, temper tantrums, being happy for others rather than sad for ourselves, worrying, questioning God’s timing are just a sampling. She talks about family issues, health, and finances. She explores why bad things happen to good people. All of this packed into 120, bible based pages on grace. What a blessing this book was to this reader! It was refreshing and gave me a new outlook on some old issues.

Her stories provided much for me to examine in my own life. Am I blessing others with grace? Am I aware when others are blessing me. Am I aware of God’s grace to me? There are so many Days in the book that stood out as extremely inspiring it was hard to decide what to share. Probably my favorite and the one that I found most moving was Day 29, “Thank You Before”. It encourages readers to thank God before the miracle happens. To believe that you will receive something from God and praise Him before it happens.

This powerful book is divided into 32 Days so it would make a great devotional if you are able to hold off and read it one day at a time. Not so with this reader. I found it so inspiring that I wanted to keep reading. This was like chatting with a friend and hearing about her week. Spoken from the Heart: Choosing Grace is relatable. I found myself nodding my head as I read parts of it. I wanted to talk to her and offer encouragement in parts and praise with her in others. It was like talking to her because she has such a way with words. I gleaned so much from this nicely written book. It is a thought provoking, humorous at times, lovely, moving book that is scripturally based. The author’s love for God and her gift for sharing that love is evident throughout this grace filled book. I look forward to now going back and reading it as a daily devotional. This would be a great book for anyone wanting to learn more about grace or strengthen their Walk. It would make a nice small group or bible study. I would highly recommend it and rated it a 5 out of 5 stars.

“Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord” 2 Peter 1:2

What is the first word that comes to mind when I say baseball?  Is it faith?  It might not be now but after reading this book, maybe.  It is Lent which means time to prepare yourself.  Strengthen your faith.  Whether you are a baseball fan or not, this is an excellent devotional for you.

In a family of sports enthusiasts, I am the odd gal out. Not only do I not enjoy sports, but I do not understand them. Take baseball for instance, everything I know about it could be put in a Little Leaguer’s pocket. They do have pockets, don’t they?

“Baseball Faith: 52 MLB Stars Reflect on Their Faith” by author Rob Maaddi is the first baseball book of any kind I have read. This 217 page Christian Living book could definitely be read as a devotional. I was totally and pleasantly surprised at how much I liked this book. Actually I loved it. It begins with a heartfelt dedication and then “On Deck” intro to the book. The Table of Contents list all 52 baseball stars alphabetically which is the order you will find them in the book. Each player has a full page color picture, the next page lists his name, a Bible verse that means something to him, and his testimony. The third page lists baseball information on him such as his position, teams, schools, honors, and more. The fourth and last page has “Seventh Inning Stretch” which includes some detailed trivia, more information, and Career Stats. At the end of the book is author information. You will also find an index of Scripture used followed by art credits.

If you know anything about baseball, I bet you know some of these players. Chris Davis, Cesar Hernandez, Pedro Martinez, Steven Matz, Aaron Nola, Andy Pettitte,
just to name a few.

Pedro Martinez talks about growing up in the Dominican Republic and how he prayed all of the time to be a baseball player. He was a skinny kid and questioned about his ability, but his testimony tells that God is the Mighty One and the only One who knows what we can become if we overcome what we think are our limits. Psalm 18:2 is his Bible verse.  The other stories are as uplifting and God glorifying, too.

This is an encouraging, inspiring book. Anyone would benefit from it. A baseball fan will especially love this book. Young boys and girls that want to learn about baseball will devour this book. Adults, too. The 52 messages are real and some pull on your heartstrings. You can feel the emotion through the words.

Author Maaddi has done an exemplary job with this book. It is a well researched, well planned, and well written book. It was penned so that anyone could understand the baseball information and more importantly the testimony. It will light a fire in you to turn to Jesus. It is a book to honor God and share our faith. Something we should do everyday.

This is no base hit. It is a big, bases loaded home run. A true winner!  I highly recommend it and rated it 5 out of 5 stars. Pick up a copy as an Easter gift, for the church library, your youth group, and yourself. Get inspired!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

 

 

All of my life my Mother has told me that I was born 25 days early and have kept up that pace ever since. Somehow I don’t believe my sweet Mother was giving me a compliment but nicely saying I am impatient. I am. I like things right now. Well, who does like to wait?  Even in my prayer life I notice I want things immediately.  It is hard to wait for answers.  Apparently I forget that I am chatting with my Creator, the One who knows what is best and when the right time is.  Recently I was asked to read a book on prayer and when God says wait. Waiting on an answer from anyone is difficult but it is especially hard when it is God. This book helped me gain perspective on that.

“When God Says Wait: Navigating life’s detours and delays without losing your faith, your friends, or your mind” by author Elizabeth Laing Thompson is a 224 page paperback book that any woman will thoroughly enjoy. It is well written with humor, scripture, and biblical stories. There are twelve chapters with catchy titles such as “Wait Is a Four-Letter Word”.  All of the chapters are about a biblical character, such as Naomi, David, Ruth, or Miriam” and their journey.  They are tied in with life today.  Told in narrative, this book took me into the hearts, minds, confidence, and land of each person. I felt their frustration, dilemma , pain, joy, and love as I kept reading. The stories were heart stirring and emotional.

The author has a nice writing style. Her stories flow effortlessly and held my interest. With biblical characters telling their stories the author then explains how it applies to our lives today. The book is well planned and organized. It has scripture and encouragement on trusting God when prayers take a while to be answered. Honest and not sugar coated, the author reminds readers to continue to pray even though they do not get the quick answers they want.  Don’t give up, keep praying.

We live in an immediate society. People are impatient and want things yesterday with no waiting. Sometimes it takes a while for things to line up. Sometimes we need to enjoy the journey.  Sometimes we need to strengthen our faith.  Author Thompson reminds readers not to give up. God hears prayer. Sometimes He has something better planned for us. Sometimes the journey is a blessing.  We need to wait and trust.

I highly recommend this book. It gives new insight into prayer, especially when waiting for an answer. I rated it a 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Barbour for my honest opinion. Any church library would benefit from this book. It would be a great Lenten read to inspire your prayer life and relationship with Abba.  I would definitely recommend this for a small group, readers club or women’s group.  I loved it and was encouraged.

“But as for me, I will look to the LORD; I will wait for the God of my salvation; my God will hear me.”  Micah 7:7