Book Review – Page 33 – Abba's Prayer Warrior Princess

Find a Book Friday: “Justice” by Emily Conrad

Posted on March 30, 2018March 15, 2018 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Today I have a real find for you. It is the debut novel of an author that I personally will be putting on my favorites list. If you read “Justice” then I bet you will, also. Author Emily Conrad has penned a page turning, stay up late to read it, wonderful

Christian romance novel. “Justice” was the first novel I have read by this author and I devoured the 220 page book in one day. I obviously did not want to put it down, but at the same time I did not want it to end. Do you know what I mean? You are reading a book so good that you cannot wait to see what happens, but as you get closer to the end you realize you do not want to say good bye to the characters? What if the next book I pick up isn’t as good? Oh, the dilima of a book reader

The writing style of author Conrad is definitely to my taste. In some ways she reminds me of one of my favorite authors, Liz Curtis Higgs. When reading Christian fiction I want at least some mention of God in it, some life lessons and scripture, too. This book was God glorifying and did not shy away from mentioning faith or God. Bravo Ms. Conrad! If you think of an abstract version, very abstract, of Mary and Joseph without baby Jesus, author Conrad’s story is patterned along those lines she says. She has compared physical situations of being pregnant out of wedlock and how it has an effect on most everyone. Not everyone is loving and forgiving. Some point fingers and others want justice.

Her characters were so well defined that we had become friends. I was invested in their trials and triumphs. Each character was well rounded, including having some flaws. They were human and not perfect. I enjoyed the dialog which flowed seamlessly. It never sounded stiff or forced. The descriptions and subjects tackled took me there in the middle of the story. I cried and laughed. Like I said before, I was invested.

Jake was a Youth Minister that owned a coffee shop. Brooklyn, his longtime friend and potential love interest, is sexually assaulted and ends up pregnant. The author writes inspirationally how this effects so many people and how many are quick and free to pass judgment. We aren’t called to judge. Only God does that.

“Justice” takes on real life tough issues that we are quick to ignore but still happen. It makes you ponder “what if” this happened to my loved one or someone I knew. How strong is my faith? Do we really forgive others especially when something horrible happens? It also is a novel of God’s love, hope, faith, and trust. God can and does make something good out of something bad.

This book was FABULOUS! Page-turning, stay-up-until-you-finish-it, I-can’t-put-it-down GREAT!

I highly recommend “Justice”. If you are a Christian fiction fan that doesn’t mind taking a ride on the emotional roller coaster, for which only a very good author can supply tickets, this book is for you. “Justice” stayed with me for days after reading it. It is a wonderful romance but so much more. Definitely there are things to think about in this excellent book. I gladly give it 5 out of 5 stars.

Author Emily Conrad writes Christian fiction. She lives in Wisconsin with her husband and two large rescue dogs. Some of her favorite things (other than Jesus and writing, of course) are coffee, walks, and road trips to the mountains.

Read a Book Monday: “His Risk” by Shelley Shepherd Gray

Posted on March 12, 2018March 12, 2018 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Today is Read a Book Monday so tell me what you are reading? I hope it’s an interesting book. The book I have to discuss today is by author Shelley Shepherd Gray. This book kept me from doing anything except reading. Once started it is near impossible to put down. It is a “wow, that was amazing” book. Are you ready to hear about it?

“His Risk” by author Shelley Shepard Gray is the fourth in her “The Amish of Hart County” series. Even though it is Book 4, it can be read as a standalone. However, this is such an excellent series you will want to read them all. Trust me! This book is a thrilling, exciting read that takes only one page to grab your attention. It isn’t your typical Amish novel. This is a gritty, crime fiction with romance and Amish.

Author Gray has an exceptional style of writing. Her vivid descriptions take me away and I am immediately invested. Her storyline is well organized and well researched. Providing twists and turns, she keeps readers captivated. Characters are believable and well defined. They were also well rounded with good and bad attributes. I felt as though I knew them through their dialog and interactions. This book is written from four characters’ perspectives.

This book is the tale of Calvin Fisher, who left Horse Cave, Kentucky when he was a young teen boy of fourteen years old. Leaving his past behind, he is now an undercover informant for the DEA, specializing on a gang, the Kings. This gang is mixed up in serious crime. Calvin returns home because of a family crisis and while there meets Amish nursery school teacher Alice Yoder. Sparks ignite and a romance begins between a devout Amish girl and the forbidden Englischer (Calvin). As their relationship gets more serious Calvin is concerned that he might bring harm to Alice because of his connections to the Kings and the head of their organization, West Powers. As things begin to happen, Calvin questions his worth to be in Alice’s life and she is skeptical about him.

“His Risk” is a sweet romance, but much more. The emotions of the characters jumped right off of the pages and into my heart. I wanted to figure out the mysteries and twists. This is an amazing intrigue, suspense Christian novel. The issues tackled are relevant and timeless. Grace and forgiveness are two of the main points. Praying, faith, trust, hope, child abuse, and bullying are among life lessons this novel discusses. It is encouraging and inspiring. Lessons on God hearing our prayers and having a plan for us as well as forgiving others and ourselves are notable.

Another nice thing about this 265 page paperback novel is that after the book there are some extra things. You will get information on author Shelley Shepherd Gray. She is a faithful Christian mother of two living in Ohio with her hubby. There is a letter from her about her book, and she states Book 5 comes out July 2018. Next are discussion questions which are great for a reading group. It concludes with a sneak peek at Book 5.

“His Risk” is a thrilling, Christian action, mystery, romance that I did not want to put down. I kept imaging it as a movie and wanted to cast the parts. Actually I want to watch it. It would be a great movie! Set in Hart County, Kentucky the scenery would be beautiful. Some parts were discussed about Louisville and Cincinnati, both close to my Southern Indiana hometown. The Amish culture and language are intriguing. This book has a sprinkling of Amish in it and I did long for more.

I highly recommend author Gray’s newest release. Anyone will love it. It has a bit of everything (romance, mystery, action, inspiration, intrigue) so there is something for everyone. You might want to get a reading group and start with Book 1. They each have inspirational messages and discussions. All are so good! You will not be disappointed.

Find a Book (or Two) Friday: “The Celebration” and “Amish Cooking Class Cookbook”

Posted on February 23, 2018February 23, 2018 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

I love to read. Christian fiction are my favorite books, and Amish are right up there in a category of most read. A culture of loving and caring for family and others deeply interests me, especially when coupled with a deep faith and respect for God. Wanda Brunstetter is one of the best selling authors of Amish books. She writes fiction, devotionals, children’s, and cookbooks in that genre as well as others.

“The Celebration” is the third book in the Amish Cooking Class Series by author Brunstetter. If you have not read the first two books, “The Seeker” and “The Blessing”, it is not a problem. However, those were excellent books, too. Each book in this exceptional series could be read alone or together for even more enjoyment.

Heidi Troyer is the teacher of the cooking classes. This Amish woman mixes together recipes, scripture, and prayer to help her students improve their cooking skills and daily lives. In this book, she and her husband Lyle have become foster parents to a sister and brother, Marsha and Randy. They lost their parents in an accident and are very shy. The Troyers love and care for these two children as if they were their own flesh and blood. With this deep love for the kids, they have decided to pursue adopting them.

Cooking classes for children begin and we visited some old friends from past books and are introduced to many more characters. It took time for me to keep them all straight. Not only were there students (children), but there were also parents. Each family had individual issues and needed help that Heidi intended to supply.

Author Brunstetter has a lovely writing style. Her characters become friends and I want to have a cup of tea with some of them. The dialog sounds realistic and flows effortlessly. Descriptions take me straight from my Englisch kitchen into Heidi’s and I can almost smell her muffins baking. The book is well written and takes on modern day issues. There are life lessons to be learned, especially to have faith and trust in God. It is a heartwarming read, full of emotion and very touching.

The Amish way of life intrigues me although I doubt seriously if I could give up electricity. They seem so kind, down to earth, and to put others first, especially family. I love children, cooking, and God. Christian fiction that includes recipes is a big bonus. Obviously this book hit many of my favorite things. I highly recommend it and give it a 5 star rating. It is delightful.

Did you notice today is a twofer? The second book is the Amish Cooking Class Cookbook. Let me just say…..amazing! This is a cookbook to be read and used. Recipes compiled are from the three novels and various Amish women. Readers will find a section on advice or tips from Amish cooks. The recipes are divided and subdivided into normal cookbook categories. Look for the Recipes for Kids section. It is a nice one, and kiddos will enjoy it.

Descriptions of the cast of characters from the cooking classes and pictures of the book covers are in the book. Scripture is sprinkled throughout which is a treasure. The pictures are vivid and beautiful. It is spiral bound so it will open up flat on your counter making it easier to follow along when mixing and stirring. This is a cookbook for cooks, those just learning to cook, and those that like to read cookbooks. It will make a delightful gift for so many people. Don’t forget to get one for yourself. Another 5 star book that I highly recommend to you.

Find a Book Friday: The Mayflower Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse

Posted on February 16, 2018February 16, 2018 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Looking for a new author or new book? I found one for you that I really liked and think you will, also. Have any of you read any of Kimberley Woodhouse’s books? Her new one is a 256 page paperback by Barbour that will teach you as it moves you back a few centuries. Filled with romance, encouragement, faith, adventure and history this novel stook me on an emotional roller coaster. Only great books do that.

The Mayflower Bride: Daughters of the Mayflower (book 1) by author Kimberley
Woodhouse is a lovely Christian fiction filled with history, adventure, and overflowing with sweet romance. It is the first I have read by this author and I found it to be just wonderful. I enjoyed the author’s writing style and felt transported back in time. Her characters were well described and so was the scenery. I learned a lot of that about that time period that I did not know. Best of all this is a Christian author that wrote Christian fiction giving glory to God.

This is the tale of the Mayflower ship’s journey to America. It is also the story of Mary Elizabeth and William, a sweet young couple. I felt for them each time a new death was discovered. When they gathered strength from God and each other, I breathed a sign of relief. I was invested in this book! The author brings to words what the early colonist were willing to risk for freedom of religion, upon which our country was founded. It is a stark, frank reminder of what was sacrificed for our freedom which today is often overlooked.

As you probably remember from history, the Mayflower ship brought settlers to America in the 1600s. In this book readers join them. The author’s characters of Mary Elizabeth and William are fictional. However she incorporated the stories of many of those aboard the actual Mayflower. Think of a “based on a true story” type book.

Throughout this book I was reacquainted with the Separatists who traveled on the Mayflower. The strife and trials they faced before leaving England and while on the ocean are heart wrenching. This book reminded me of just how hard that must have been. Their faith was tested and strengthened time after time. They tightly clung to hope and to God. It is a true lesson in faith and hope.

The Mayflower Bride is fantastic. I love Christian historical romance novels. Check! This one is just that. I enjoy learning new things when reading and especially like books that have a good Christian message. Check, check! It hit those two marks, also. If you like a book filled with adventure, history, sweet romance, faith, and inspiration, then this book is for you. I highly recommend it and honestly rate it 5 out of 5 stars.

Read A Book: “Devotions for the Hungry Heart” by Shellie Tomlinson

Posted on January 8, 2018January 8, 2018 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Did you get a devotional for Christmas? If you are like me, you read more than just one per day. I have one for when I have my coffee, one in the afternoon, and another at night. Design Often I will be given other to add to my library, like this one. “Devotions for the Hungry Heart” is the first book that I have read by author Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, but I am certain it will not be my last. I fell in love with this 20 week devotional immediately and devoured it within a few days. (I know! I couldn’t help myself.) This sweet 272 page hardcover book is published by Shiloh Press. The padded cover is inviting and feels nice to the touch. There are glossy full color pictures which adorn the center which are beautiful and have yummy recipes. I love recipes in books.

In the introduction, the author says, “Whether you have a healthy craving for more Jesus, or the barely discernible taste for a relationship with Him that seems beyond your reach, the glorious truth is that God put that hunger in your heart in the first place, and He is more willing to fan that flame than you or I could ever be.” How is that for encouragement? Do you see why I fell in love so quickly? She had me at “craving for more Jesus.” The older I get the more my soul craves to be closer, near to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This book gave me daily servings of that.

Author Shellie has a very nice style of writing. Her devotions are only one to two pages long, but she loads them with powerful words. The way she writes is smooth and her message just flows easily from the pages into my heart and mind. Using topics that are relatable to us she inspires us in her open and honest way. Reading it is like chatting with a friend, prayer partner, Design or Sister in Christ over a cup of coffee. One that just gets you. I found the author to be witty, humorous, God glorifying, encouraging, approachable and transparent. She taught me what being hungry for Jesus meant. Dividing that up into six topics: Sharing, Needing, Celebrating, Praying, Surrendering and Being Intentional, the author explained in her sweet Southern style. I have continued pondering them long after finishing her book. Have you ever thought what an example of being hungry for more Jesus liked like? Think about it a minute. Better yet, just get this book.

One of the great things about this devotional is that it isn’t dated. Readers do not need to worry they are missing out by not starting it on a certain date. It has daily devotions, Monday through Saturday, that could be started at anytime. There is an illustration along with the scripture and message. A ribbon bookmark is sewn into the book so that your place will be kept. The recipes in the center are from the author’s cookbook, “Hungry Is a Mighty Fine Sauce.” After the devotions, there is a Scripture reference page. Very helpful for future use or when counseling a friend.

This book is definitely a keeper and one to give away. It gives encouragement to all Christians whether you are a new seeker or older seasoned one. Everyone will glean something from this beautiful, delightful food for the soul book. The only problem you will encounter is where to keep it – on the breakfast table or nightstand! Well, that and limiting yourself to one devotion per day. I will be buying many for gifts. A definite 5 star recommendation from this hungry for Jesus gal.

Design

Find a Book Friday: “Isaiah’s Daughter” by Mesu Andrews

Posted on January 5, 2018January 5, 2018 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Are you beginning the year with a resolution to read more books? I enjoy books that teach me things, encourage me, strengthen my Walk, and provide a little time away from my day to day life. If you do, too, let me introduce you to one that comes out January 16th. “Isaiah’s Daughter” by author Mesu Andrews is a fabulous Christian novel. I loved everything about it. This paperback by Waterbrook Publishers has a striking cover that immediately took me back to Old Testament times. There is a hefty total of 384 pages that might sound like a lot but they absolutely flew by. This novel was an absolute page turner. I could not put it down and yet did not want it to end. Author Andrews is a truly gifted wordsmith and gently lifts readers out of their chairs to place them smack dab in the middle of her setting. I felt like I was there in Israel and Judah myself.

“Isaiah’s Daughter” by author Mesu Andrews is a fabulous Christian novel. This paperback by Waterbrook Publishers has a striking cover and is a hefty 384 pages that absolutely flew by. I could not put it down and yet did not want it to end. Author Andrews is a truly gifted wordsmith and gently lifts readers out of their chairs to place them smack dab in the middle of her setting. I felt like I was there myself.

Her latest novel is the tale of a young woman that has been taken into Isaiah’s household. Ishma is adopted by Isaiah and her name changed to Zibah, which means delight of the Lord. Isaiah is a prophet during a time when Israel has become divided in its religion. The North has turned its back on God and now worships false, pagan gods. The South, Judah, has remained faithful to Yahweh. It was a turbulent time.

Reading this book gave me a glimpse into the life and struggles of the Israelites. There was a big struggle between good and evil, right and wrong, worshipping God or the idols. That is why Abba sent prophets to speak to men and turn them from their wicked ways. In her wonderfully written novel, the author tells us the love story of Judah’s King Hezekiah and Queen Hephzibah as well as the love story of Yahweh for His people. It teaches us about the culture and customs of that time. Her book encourages us to put our trust in God now, even as they did in Old Testament times.

Characters in “Isaiah’s Daughter” absolutely come alive because of the writing. They are well defined so that each one is like a new friend that I have just made. Dialogue rings true to what I imagined it would be back then. The book is written in a narrative. I liked that as it made me feel closer to the characters. Not much is written about or know of women from biblical times. Men are deemed more important and recorded. Reading about a woman was nice.

I highly recommend this book. It has so much to offer. If you like romance, history, inspiration, learning, adventure, suspense, intrigue, and having a Bible story come to life, this book is for you. It would be great for a book club. So many things were in it that I wanted to discuss with my reading friends. You will, also. I rated it 5 out of 5 stars. Preorder yours before January 16th to receive goodies!

Book Review: Big Book of Bible Heroes Devotionals

Posted on December 22, 2017December 21, 2017 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Do you read a devotional? Do your kids and grandkids? It is never too early to start the habit of feeding your spirit and mind with the good nutrition it needs. I love giving (and receiving) devotional for Christmas. With the New Year just a week away, it is the perfect time to begin or continue a practice of reading something everyday that will enrich your life and deepen your Walk. Children need this, too.

“My Big Book of Bible Heroes Devotional” by author Glenn Hascall is a wonderful paperback devotional for children, boys and girls. Published by Barbour, this inspirational 160 page book has a vibrant eyecatching cover with a golden sunburst overlaid with four biblical heroes. Inside are stories printed on thick glossy paper of fifty heroes and heroines from the Bible. Each story is three pages long and written for easy understanding. Readers will find a reference where each story is in the Bible, scripture relating to the story, followed by the story or devotional and a prayer, and finishing up with discussion/study questions to help dig deeper into what was just read.

“My Big Book of Bible Heroes Devotional” includes a multitude of well known heroes and heroines such as David, Mary, Ruth, Daniel, and Samson. There are also some less familiar people included which will teach children their stories, too. This is an educational and encouraging devotional for girls and boys aged 7 to 12. The reading level is 2nd/3rd and the message is not only interesting but thought provoking. This devotional shows kids that heroes are everyday people. God uses and loves us all.

It would make a great devotional for grade school children and even lower middle schoolers. Family devotion time would be a perfect time to read this and discuss the Bible. Each story would make a nice bedtime read, too. Church libraries and classes would benefit from having one. I highly recommend this devotional and have one wrapped up for my eight year old grandson. Start something great for 2018 for someone young. You will be deeply rewarded and filled with joy by the seedsyou are planting today.

Read a Book Monday: #GOSPEL

Posted on December 18, 2017December 14, 2017 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Are you a Bible reader? Have the stories in the Bible ever seemed not relevant to life today? I found a book that takes scripture and applies it to everyday modern life. It was written to give life, hope, and truth to Generation Now. A generation that is seeking God and desperately needs to find Him.

#GOSPEL: Life, Hope, and Truth for Generation Now by author Daniel Rice was a refreshing look at Scripture and the Gospels. It has a revolutionary, contemporary new insight to catch attention fast. Just like in today’s fast faced world with television, video games, and going from one thing to another, author Rice is ready to grab attention and not let go. This young adult ministry and evangelism book from Barbour Publishing will draw in young adults and older ones, too. The large hashtag on the front cover is filled with trendy hashtags such as #Craycray. Just the cover will draw teens and twenty somethings to the book.

“Five to ten seconds. After that, the filter kicks in.”

There are chapters filled with stories that really explain things in the language of today for the generation of today. The author explains that in our world today we have a short few seconds to make an impression on someone and win them over to listen to our story. “Five to ten seconds. After that, the filter kicks in.” Most of the time we are tuned out, shut out. Author Rice has taken the gospel and put it in everyday language and situations so that the Now Generation will better understand it. He has made it contemporary and new. Taking the stories from Paul in Romans this author uses everyday examples and tales to make the Bible relevant and alive TODAY.

This is the first book I have read by author Rice. I really enjoyed it. He has a very smooth, easy writing style. The book was nice to read and hard to put down. It was interesting, gave me ideas, and made sense. I would give this to a wide variety of people. People seeking God, those with questions about their new found faith, teenagers and young adults, people working with youth, are just some of the ones that would benefit from this book. For me this is a five star read. It truly is a great book and I plan on giving a few copies this Christmas. You should, too.