I Declare War - Levi Lusko

Whether you recognize it or not, you're at war with yourself. There's anxiety. Selfishness. Self-sabotaging tendencies. Narcissism. The black dog of depression. The inability to do the great things you long to do because you spend so many hours mindlessly drifting through the internet.

It is war but all is not lost. You can win—if you choose to engage.
In I Declare War: Four Keys to Winning the battle With Yourself, Levi Lusko candidly shares about his struggles with moodiness, bullying, suicidal thoughts, night terrors, and difficulty managing himself. He identifies four weapons you have at your disposal—thoughts, words, behaviors, and power—and illustrates how to use them to achieve ongoing victory. (Back Cover)

My Review: Levi Lusko's raw honesty always shines through in his books and this one is no exception. Our emotions can truly turn our thoughts and actions into a battlefield and the mind can overcome the goals you hope to achieve. Lusko relates many anecdotes and memories from this childhood and youth and how they continue to impact him today. Adult issues are often rooted in childhood events as he clearly demonstrates throughout the book.

Sometimes, especially in a season of depression and feeling unworthy, it helps to know that you are not alone. Even though you may not know the other person, it is a relief to know that others struggle --- and overcome the war within. I recommend this book for others who can both commiserate but face their own challenges with a renewed sense of courage to overcome their own battles. Use the tools that Lusko speaks of... Thoughts, Words, Behaviors, and Powers to overcome the thoughts that try to defeat you. Most of all, he points you to our ultimate Hope.

I received a copy of this Thomas Nelson published book from BookLookBloggers at no cost to myself for review purposes. I was neither influenced or required to write a positive review.

Restoration Year - John Eldredge

Whether you have had a great year or one filled with many difficulties, the thought of a new year always brings to mind that there are changes we can make to transform us and to restore anything that needs healed or made whole. Restoration Year by John Eldredge (Ransomed Heart) is a 365-day Devotional designed to guide you on a year of restoration as you follow God for a richer experience with your relationship with God, and with other people in your life.

Each day provides Scripture and a short daily reading and ends with a prayer, a challenge or an inspirational message to further guide you along your journey. The steps you take will make a remarkable difference in your relationship with God. And, this will lead to a richer relationship with family and friends as you seek God first.

This is an embossed hardcover book with thick, easy-to-turn pages and an attached ribbon bookmark. It's easy to hold while reading, and since it's one page per day, most people should manage that well. My one complaint is no room for writing my own thoughts; there is some room in the margins of the book, but I would like a bit more space. This is a great devotional for a man, but also suitable for a woman or for a couple to read together. Published by Thomas Nelson.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Links:
Resoration Year - Thomas Nelson 
Ransomed Hearts website
John Eldredge and Ransomed Heart Ministries

Holy Roar ~ Chris Tomlin/Darren Whitehead

Holy Roar is a small book, but not necessarily a quick read. The focus is on the 7 Hebrew words of praise and their specific meanings. Each chapter begins with one of the words with a pronunciation guide, definition, and an example of a Scripture where that specific word is used. Darren Whitehead, pastor of Church of the City in Nashville, then gives a personal story that gives an example of how the word is used that makes it much more relatable to people. Behind the Music is the section where musician/singer/worship leader Chris Tomlin tells the story behind some of his most well-known songs and how each is connected to a form of praise. Each chapter closes with a quote, several Scripture references that use the word (example, halal), and 5 questions to help with personal growth and reflection. The book is published by Thomas Nelson.

I wouldn't necessarily recommend this book for reading material, but I highly recommend it for personal growth and as a weekly or daily devotional for anyone wanting to learn more about prise and worship. It does have interest for just the casual reader but I believe you get a much better experience when you use it as an educational tool. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Comeback - Louie Giglio

The Comeback by Louie Giglio is a celebration of new beginnings. For the times when you feel confused, frustrated, or that you have made too many mistakes, this book offers encouragement to keep going. If you are grieving, or life no longer makes sense, Giglio offers perspective.

Louie Giglio has been one of my favorite speakers for many years, and I have loved his books. This one is no exception. Louie mixes personal stories and applies Biblical principles. Filled with examples of second chances and numerous come-back stories, this book is meant to offer hope to all, no matter how discouraged or helpless an individual may feel.


While not very heavy theologically, it does speak clearly to people who need to know that all hope is not lost. I know that during my lowest moments, I am more apt to listen to a simple voice of reason to get me back on the path. Giglio's core audience, due to his Passion events, is mostly young adults who may not have the experience of having to cling to and cultivate the deep faith roots that someone who has waged more battles. I recommend the book to the young...in age or faithwalk or to the people who are having a difficult season of life. But it is a good read and reminder of where our hope lies for anyone.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”


LINKS:
Louie Giglio
FREE Chapter of The Comeback
Thomas Nelson

Swipe Right - Levi Lusko

Swipe Right: The Life-and-Death Power of Sex and Romance (Thomas Nelson) by Levi Lusko: Love, sex, romance and relationships are powerful, but too often are treated as trivial and disposable in today's society. In this book, Lusko, pastor of Fresh Life Church, a multisite church in Montana, and the founder of Skull Church and the O2 Experience, shares how to go beyond meaningless sex to a lasting relationship that is much more fulfilling.

Some of the things Levi Lusko shares with honesty from both his own life experiences and God’s Word are:

• regret-proof your marriage bed and your deathbed
• resist settling for instant pleasure by discovering what your heart really longs for
• learn how to avoid and treat sexual scars by careful living today
• turn the clumsy “sex talk” with your child into dialogue that leads to wise choices
• transform a stagnant marriage by trading predictable nearness for mind-blowing intimacy 

God created sex, so His plan is for sex to be a pleasure, but also a part of a committed relationship between a husband and wife. Lusko has written a powerful book that is honest, relatable, and often funny. Going beyond the physical act, he also speaks on emotional intimacy, porn, and how we sometimes block God's best for us by answering the voice that yells, "NOW!" rather than waiting.

This is also a book for those who are thinking, "Too late for me now." Yes, this book is better to read when you are young and willing to commit to God's standards, but there comes a time when you recommit to a standard and set out on a new path. "Sampson's Hair Began to Grow" is one of my favorite chapters. Sampson's story has always been one of my least favorites, but I have been learning a lot lately from this man who was one of God's chosen...yet chose his way over God's every time. Yet, in the end, God was able to use him. 

 My only issue with the book is also one of the reasons I will absolutely recommend it to others. Sometimes I simply did not have a clue what the man was referencing! I am a Pop Culture illiterate. I have never heard of dating apps like Tinder...and I certainly was not going to Google it. I don't watch television, seldom see secular movies, don't play computer games and rarely use my phone. So, I was often puzzled, but have no doubt my children and grandchildren would totally understand. I also loved the section, "Things I Really, Really Want You to Remember." Perfect...even for those who don't like to read. 

I received a copy of this book at no cost to myself for review purposes. I was only required to give an honest review.

You'll Think of Me - Robin Lee Hatcher

Abandoned by her mother as a child, and loathed by her father, Brooklyn thought she had found love when she eloped with Chad as a teenager. However, once she became pregnant, Chad rejected her and their unborn child. Ten years later, she gets a letter that Chad has passed away, leaving their daughter his family home and acreage.

Derek, Chad's childhood best friend, is a deputy who dreams of expanding his property to become a full-time organic farmer. Chad's promise to sell him his 10 acres is broken when he leaves all to Alycia---along with a request that Derek be the father to Alycia that she never had.

Brooklyn reluctantly returned to the small Idaho town she left as a teen, hoping to provide her daughter with a life she never experienced. Derek's disappointment over losing the land, along with long-held misconceptions about Brooklyn and her distrust of others makes for an uneasy relationship as each learns to let go of the past and build a future with the plan God has for them.

You'll Think of Me (Thomas Nelson) is an easy read and enjoyable despite some very serious topics including daughters with no father or abusive fathers, domestic violence, single parenting, lost dreams, and forgiveness. Brooklyn learns that she can trust others and be part of a community while Derek learns that if he lets go of his own plans, he can trust God to provide what he really needs. Of course, these novels follow the same basic pattern, but the fun is seeing how the author both presents and resolves conflicts in each story. I felt this was a well told story that allowed character development and without the rushed ending that is often found. I really liked it and it is great for a relaxing Summer read. 

The publisher provided me with a complimentary copy of this book through BookLook Bloggers.

Grace for the Moment by Max Lucado

Grace for the Moment (Large Deluxe): Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year by Max Lucado offers inspiring devotions to grow in your faith as you embrace the hope of the Lord every day. Featuring Scripture, along with devotional writings from Max's best sellers, each day's writing is a short but powerful message to remind the reader of God's love. Although there are variances, the majority of the Scripture is from the New Century Version (NCV). The devotion for each day also indicates which Lucado book used. 



This is the deluxe, large print edition of the classic devotional with a leather-flex cover, beautifully designed pages, and a ribbon marker. It is fairly lightweight and fits comfortably in one hand if you hold it to read. The pages do not flip and are thick enough that you can highlight or make notes that won't bleed through to several pages. (I recommend using colored pencils when highlighting, though. I have used them for years.) The strong binding will ensure this book can endure daily handling and will be a treasury you can visit in years ahead. I also love the look and feel of the cover. The book is published by Thomas Nelson, a registered trademark of Harper Collins Christian Publishing. 

I love the book and will definitely recommend it to anyone searching for a new devotional for themselves or as a gift. These are small nuggets of truth, with an insight to give the reader something to mull over and to build upon their faith.

I received a copy of this book from Booklook Bloggers for review purposes. A positive review was not required, and all thoughts regarding this book are my own.         

Know the Word NKJV Study Bible

A good study Bible is a must have for anyone who is wanting to dig deeper into God's Word. Know the Word Study Bible, published by Thomas Nelson, offers three easy ways to go beyond casual reading to becoming a regular student of the Word. Do you have a preferred method? Here is an overview of the different ways you may prefer to use:

• Book by Book series of notes leads you through the main points of each book of the Bible. 
• Verse by Verse studies help you to dig deeper into God’s Word at a verse level. 
• Topic by Topic articles, which cover 21 key theological topics, give you a bird's-eye view of Scripture and guide you through the main themes that run throughout the Bible.

Features Include:
• New King James Version Bible text • Three easy approaches to study the Bible: Book by Book, Verse by Verse, Topic by Topic • Book introductions • Words of Jesus in red • Two-color interior page design • Comprehensive list of theological notes • Concordance

The things I like most about this Bible are the ease of using three different study methods, notes, the concordance, and the maps. It is also compact, easily held in one hand, sturdy due to hard cover, and the words are easily read. Also, the words of Jesus are in red, and pronoun references to God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit are capitalized. Not only is that more respectful (in my opinion) but it is another aid to clarification. NKJV is much more understandable that the original KJV, and seems to be an acceptable compromise.

My only major dislike is that I like to have wide margins for taking notes. Of course, passages can be highlighted (I prefer using colored pencils), but there is very little room for any comment. Other than that personal preference, I am very well pleased with this Bible and definitely recommend it to others.

I received a copy of this Bible at no cost to myself from the BookLook Blogger program. I was not required to write a positive review. 

5 Minutes With Jesus - Sheila Walsh

5 Minutes with Jesus: A Fresh Infusion of Joy by Sheila Walsh is a small book that packs a powerful punch of hope and joy. When you are going through a dark valley or just stuck in a boring rut, joy can be difficult to find---but, our strength and joy are found in the Lord. It may not be easy to reach joy, but it is attainable. Jesus embraces His followers with a love that is almost tangible, but is manifested as a feeling of joy in spite of circumstances.

Sheila Walsh uses short stories, insights, and encouraging scriptures to help the reader discover joy in God's goodness, creation, and love. Each devotion reminds you that, no matter what, there is joy and peace to be found, and you can find it when you are frequently spending time in Jesus’ presence! Walsh and co-author Sherri Gragg provide a daily dose of encouragement through humorous or touching stories coupled with scripture that will provide light, no matter how dark life may seem. This book would be an excellent gift for anyone who needs encouragement and joy---including yourself! I highly recommend it.

I received this book free through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own.

The Wedding Shop by Rachel Hauck

Two women separated by decades. Both set out to help others find their dreams when their own have crumbled.

It's the early 1930s, but Cora Scott is walking in stride as a career woman ​after having inherited her great aunt's wedding shop in Heart’s Bend, Tennessee, where brides come from as far away as Birmingham to experience her famed bridal treatment. Meanwhile, Cora is counting down the days until her own true love returns from the river to make her his bride. But days turn into months and months to years. All the while, Birch Good continues to woo Cora and try to show her that while he is solid and dependable, he can sweep her off her feet.

​More than eighty years later, former ​Air Force Captain Haley Morgan has returned home to Heart's Bend after finishing her commitment to military service. After the devastating death of her best friend, Tammy, and discovering the truth about the man she loved, Haley is searching for her place in life.

When Haley decides to reopen the romantic but abandoned wedding shop where she and Tammy played and dreamed as children, she begins a journey of courage, mystery, and love.

As Cora’s and ​Haley's stories intertwine through time in the shadow of the beloved wedding shop, they both discover the power of their own dreams and the magic of everyday love. (publisher)

My Review: The story is told from the viewpoint of several main characters and across several generations. Yet the stories weave together to create a fascinating connection between all and how some basic emotions remain the same. Haley discovers that she and Cora experienced many of the same things and the knowledge that Cora recovered and moved on helps Haley in her own healing process. I loved the various avenues of life experiences explored, and that you get a sense that Haley and Cora, despite distractions, both found happiness in finding themselves in God's plans for their lives. Admittedly, since it is the only worldview I know, I always prefer books with a Christian worldview. Watching the faith walk of these characters was a great part of the story.

There was a little confusion for me as I tried to remember all of the characters and where they belonged, but not enough to lessen my enjoyment...and I did get them sorted out. And, sometimes the pace was a bit uneven, but that probably had much more to do with my interest level than the author, simply because some characters interested me more than others. But, all-in-all, the book was very well-written and a fascinating read. It was difficult to put down, and I did stay up later than planned a couple of night to read 'just one more chapter'---or 2 (or 3)! I look forward to reading more books by Rachel Hauck.

 I received a copy of this Zondervan book from BookLook Bloggers at no cost to myself for a fair and honest review. I was not required to write a positive review.

The Witnesses by Robert Whitlow

"The Witnesses" by Robert Whitlow is a Christian legal thriller set in North Carolina. Parker House is a young attorney, hoping to make a name for himself as an associate in a local firm. A special ability, that he shares with his grandfather, is already making him a valuable asset, but things take a sudden turn when Frank House is visited from someone he knew in World War 2 Germany---when he was known as Franz Haus.

An intriguing woman he meets, and who also happens to be the daughter of a prominent attorney, provides new insights into his grandfather's shrouded past, and also leads to new prospects for Parker when he is offered to head of the new local branch Layla's father is opening. But, is it an attempt to interfere in his daughter's life or related to the mysteries Frank won't discuss?

The action of the book goes back and forth between present day and World War 2, with the narrator's voice also switching between Parker and Frank, yet it just helps add layers to a story that is a page-turner. "The Witnesses" has less focus on legal matters than some of Whitlow's past novels, but a richness of character development that I enjoyed. I also loved the spiritual journey that Frank takes that leads him back to a nearly forgotten childhood memory. The action built up slowly, but kept my interest, and the ending left me satisfied. Altogether a great tale of forgiveness, faith, overcoming the past, and second chances.

I received a complimentary copy of this Thomas Nelson Book from BookLook Bloggers. I was not required to give a good review and all opinions are my own.

The Daniel Prayer by Anne Graham Lotz

The Daniel Prayer is born deep within your soul, erupts through your heart, and pours out on your lips, words created by and infused with the Spirit of God quivering with spiritual electricity. It’s really not an everyday type of prayer. It’s a prayer birthed under pressure. Heartache. Grief. Desperation. It can be triggered by a sudden revelation of hope. An answer to prayer, a promise freshly received, a miracle that lies just over the horizon…
Join Anne in a thrilling discovery of prayer that really works.
This book will help readers pray effectively for their nation, for their families, and for themselves. She will answer such questions as: • Does God only hear the prayers of good people? • How do I know the God to whom I pray will listen? • How do I know God cares about my prayer? • How do I know God will answer my prayer? • Why should I pray? • Does it matter where I am when I pray? • Are words in prayer all that matter, or does my attitude affect prayer? • What difference does my prayer make? (back cover)
 
My Review: The Daniel Prayer: Prayer That Moves Heaven and Changes Nations, is a call to action by Lotz to follow the example of Old Testament prophet, Daniel. Despite being held captive in a foreign land, Daniel remained faithful to his God, refused to bow to foreign gods or compromise his belief. Lotz uses a prayer, found in Daniel 9, that we can follow today. Filled with facts of what we know of Daniel, along with some conclusions I had not considered, we see a more complete picture of Daniel's steadfast faith in spite of decades of being forced to live in a strange land away from his beloved home. He even rose to a position of power without compromising the tenets of his faith in the one true God. When Daniel realizes that the foretold 70 years of captivity is coming to completion, he fervently prays for his people and Israel.
The book is dividing into four sections:
1) Preparing for Prayer
2) Pleading in Prayer
3) Prevailing in Prayer
4) Patterns for Prayer

Lotz walks us through these sections with personal examples of times she has prayed through difficult times and stresses the need of intentional time alone with God to meditate on His word, talk to Him...and listen to what He is revealing to you. Sometimes, especially with prayers that are added near the end of the book, things sometimes seemed a bit drawn out. Yet, one of the main reasons I wanted to read this book was due to my wandering attention when I am praying. I took away several things that I want to put into practice. I pray, but often quick prayers and haphazard methods of mostly reading my Bible, without taking the study what is being said and how I need to apply it to my life, especially particular things I am praying about. 

Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Little One, God Made You Special by Amy Warren Hilliker

Little One, God Made You Special by Amy Warren Hilliker is a 14 page board book for toddlers inspired by Rick Warren's best-seller, The Purpose Driven Life. Written by his daughter, Amy, the book is just the right size for toddlers to old on to and has simple sentences that are just the right length for a toddler's attention span. You can even use interactions to correspond with each sentence to make it an additional learning lesson.

Cute adult and child animals give the book an appealing charm, thanks to illustrator Polona Lovsin, and a child is sure to be delighted with the drawings. This is also a sturdy book that holds together well (tested by my 8 month old great-granddaughter). Published by Zonderkidz.

I received a copy of this book from the BookLook Bloggers program at no cost to myself for review purposes. I was not required to give a good review.

I Will Follow Jesus - Judah & Chelsea Smith

I Will Follow Jesus is a Bible Storybook, written by Judah and Chelsea Smith. Written for younger children, this book is not only sturdy and durable itself, but contains a sturdy and durable message to introduce little ones about the relationship they can have with Jesus. 

Without a doubt, this is my favorite Bible storybook of any I have read. Covering both the Old and the New Testament, the stories told are simplified for children without losing the important message. The introductions give examples kids can relate to like "Have you ever had a friend try to get you to do something bad?" (Daniel) or asking if you have ever told people things you thought were right, but you found out you were wrong (Paul). Then, a story from the Bible is summed up, accurately, but in a form children can understand. After the Scripture, is an "I Will Follow Jesus" that emphasizes the lesson learned, followed by a short prayer.

Children between the ages of 4 - 8 are the intended audience for comprehension level, and the older kids should be able to read it for themselves. This is a 7.2 x 1 x 8.2" hard cover book with thick pages and a satin ribbon to help you keep you place. The book is also beautifully illustrated by Alexandra Ball. I wouldn't recommend it for toddlers, but only because they would be literally chewing on the book rather than on the words that instill a foundation for Christian faith and what it means to follow Jesus. 
 

I received a copy of this book at no cost to myself for review purposes from BookLook Bloggers. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review.

Song of the Stars by Sally Lloyd-Jones

Song of the Stars by New York Times bestseller, Sally Lloyd-Jones, and illustrated by Alison Jay is a board book about the celebration of all creation as they eagerly await the birth of Christ. The animals, trees, oceans and even the stars are anticipating letting the entire world know that God's promised Son, the Creator of ALL living things has been born! "It's Time! It's Time!"




My Review: Of course I loved the story. As a follower of Christ, I want to share the story of his birth with the little ones I love and I do like the sense of anticipation and excitement that builds as the author and illustrator demonstrate how all of creation rejoiced and celebrated the birth of Jesus.

But I thought the book structure was meant more for tinier hands to hold and the words were more appropriate for the 4-7 year old audience that it is meant to reach. It is a good book, but I guess my expectations in seeing the size had my expectations prepared for  the words to be geared more toward a toddler with a more limited vocabulary. So, it is more of a visual thing for me. I had my 1 year old great grandson in mind since it was a perfect size. But, his attention span would not last through a reading. By the time he is old enough to appreciate the words more, he is more apt to think of smaller board books as "baby books." Don't love it, but I did like it. It should be sturdy enough to hold up until he is old enough to sit still for a reading.

**I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Sally Lloyd-Jones is a leading writer of inspirational books for children. She is the author of three bestselling children’s Bibles, including the Gold Book Award-winning Baby’s First Bible and, most recently, the Moonbeam Award Winner and ALA notable, The Jesus Storybook Bible: Every Story Whispers His Name. She has written many picture books for children, including the critically acclaimed New York Times bestseller How to Be a Baby: By Me, the Big Sister. Sally was born and raised in Africa, was schooled in England, and now lives in New York City. She can be found at www.sallylloyd-jones.com.

A House Divided by Robert Whitlow

Corbin, a longtime legal champion for the downtrodden, is slowly drinking himself into the grave. His love for “mountain water” has cost him his marriage to the godliest woman he knows, ruined his relationship with his daughter, Roxy, and reduced the business at his small Georgia law firm to a level where he can barely keep the bill collectors at bay. But it isn’t until his son, Ray, threatens to limit Corbin’s time with his grandson that Corbin begins to acknowledge he might have a problem.

Despite the mess that surrounds his personal life and against the advice of everyone he knows, Corbin takes on a high-stakes tort case on behalf of two boys who have contracted non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma due to an alleged chemical exposure. The defendant, a fertilizer company, is the largest employer in the area. The lawsuit becomes a tornado that sucks Corbin, Ray, and Roxy into an increasingly deadly vortex. Equally intense pressure within the family threatens to destroy, once and for all, the thin threads that connect them.

Corbin must find the strength to stand up to his personal demons. Justice for two dying boys depends on it . . . his family depends on it. (publisher's description)
My Review: I have loved every Whitlow book I have read, but this one was just not as satisfying to read. Instead of devouring it within a few hours, as usual, it actually took a couple of weeks. I don't know if the characters just weren't developed enough for me to feel a connection or if it was that the people he was defending seemed to be too minor---more of a subplot, but not essential to the story being told.

The struggles with alcohol, family relationships, and how it impacted the family were interesting, but I wanted more of the legal aspects and how it affected the town. When I got to the end, I thought, "That's it?" It was like the conclusion to the case was tossed in as an after-thought just because he was near the end the book. I wanted to know more. I still love Whitlow and look forward to his next book. This was just a so-so one for me, but he has spoiled me with the excellence of previous novels.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book at no cost to myself in exchange for a fair and honest review from BookLook Bloggers.

Truly Free by Robert Morris

In Truly Free best-selling author Robert Morris invites us into a glorious truth-that the promise of being set free from the slavery of sin is a promise to be set free completely. Although evil is real and Christians can be oppressed by it, we have the promise that the one who is in us is greater than the one who is in the world (1 John 4:4). Jesus saves us, trains us to resist the power of evil, and delivers us from anything that holds us back. With Jesus, we can be finally free forever. (back cover)

Pastor Robert Morris, founding senior pastor of Gateway Church, knows firsthand how easy it is to become entangled in sin. He has been quite candid about his own struggles, and has the heart and passion to help others break free. I appreciate the personal stories that he shares and feel they help others realize that they are not alone and that anyone can allow sin to pull them away from the life they want to lead. Just as Paul says in Romans 7:15-25, knowing what you should do, and even what you want to do is not enough.

Pride can be the largest stumbling block in preventing us to reconcile our desire to live a Christ-honoring life, and the life we actually live. Morris explains how we simply cannot change of our own free will, but must get down to root causes (not excuses, necessarily, but things that may have influenced us.) I found several passages in the book very convicting and came to the realization that even the self-defeating "small" sins make a difference. More than just a feel good book of overcoming sins and temptations, Truly Free encourages the reader to turn the the Lord to break free of the snares that trap us in a life that keeps us from living the life and being the person God intends...and to be aware that we cannot do it apart from Him. I recommend this book and would give it a 4.5 stars.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from BookLook Bloggers at no cost to myself. I was not required to write a positive review. Also, thank you to Thomas Nelson.

One Last Thing - St. James/Rue

One Last Thing by Rebecca St. James and Nancy Rue is a contemporary fiction that focuses on the subject of online pornography addiction and the devastation it can bring to a person and their relationships.

Tara Faulkner and Seth Grissom were childhood friends who grew up next to one another and whose lives had flowed from an idyllic childhood to a fairy tale perfect romance. Seth's best friend was Tara's brother and their parents were best of friends also. But, three weeks before the lavish wedding, Tara discovered a secret that revealed a part of Seth she could not imagine.

I didn't love the book, but I did like it a lot. The various characters covered a full spectrum of people who are likely to part of ones circle of friends. The jolt to Tara after discovering Seth's porn addiction, and the indecision of what to do and how to react seemed very well played. More than one of the people in the story had secrets that were slowly revealed and gave a greater depth of understanding to the results of sexual addiction, showing that it is not the harmless hobby that many claim, and that it does hurt many people. While the story did delve into causes for Seth to have formed this addiction, keep in mind that this is just one person's story.

The family dynamics also proved that what is seen on the surface may hide a whole range of other emotions and hidden agendas. The family that put on the biggest facade of a perfect life, proven to have many dysfunctional aspects. As Tara struggles to keep Seth's secret while evolving into a person of more depth, she is sometimes surprised by the reactions of close family members.

Now, some of the work situations seemed not quite in step with reality, but I did like the friendships formed and the support group. Tara managed to build a healthy support system community that provided the strength she needed as she worked through the issues that needed confronted, and came out a much more likeable person at the end of the book than she was at the beginning. While the book did not end with all of the loose ends tied in a pretty bow, it did end on a hopeful note that Tara, and Seth, would get through this...as individuals more secure in who they are, what and in Whom they believe, and better equipped to face challenges in life.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Miracle at the Higher Grounds Cafe

Miracle at the Higher Grounds Cafe by Max Lucado, with Candace Lee and Eric Newman is a Christian fiction book published by ThomasNelson that is delightfully reminiscent of films like It's A Wonderful Life or The Bishop's Wife.

Chelsea Chambers has recently had a very public split from her NFL superstar husband. She and their children return to their hometown in Texas to reopen the coffee shop left to her by her mother. Even with her incredible cupcakes, hard work, and determination, Higher Grounds Café is having too many set backs. In despair, she prays for a miracle.

An endearingly likeable, albeit clumsy, strangers shows up at her door, eager to help. Not long after, she gets a free trial for a most unusual internet deal. Users can only connect to one website...God.com. Higher Grounds is soon buzzing with new business eager to ask the one question they are allowed, but this creates as many problems as it solves. When Ryan returns, begging for another chance, Chelsea is certain that her world has been turned upside down once again. No matter how hard she tries, disasters keep arriving.

My Review: At first, I wasn't sure. I absolutely love Lucado's nonfiction books and find all of his children's books and DVDs absolutely delightful. This brand of fiction/fantasy was a bit different, but I found myself enjoying it more and more until I finally just relaxed and had fun with the adventure. It was a bit fluffy, so I would prefer a bit more indepth look at the characters in future books of this type, yet I really liked it enough to want to read more. This is a lighthearted book, in spite of touching on some harsh realities, that warms the heart and leaves a smile that grew more as I read. Great book for a couple of free hours or to take with you on vacation.

Read the first 3 chapters!

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and all  opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”