Book Reviews

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A Beauty So Rare review

A Beauty So Rare imageAfter two and a half years of waiting, the release date finally arrived… A Beauty So Rare, book number two in Tamera Alexander’s Belmont Mansion series, was released in the spring of 2014 by Bethany House. Was it worth the wait? Without question, the answer is yes! Although set in the same Nashville location as the preceding story (A Lasting Impression), this novel depicts a separate storyline and unique host of characters, while offering glimpses of real historical events and people. Interestingly, the gap between three views of Nashville society are bridged within the story, including the elite and wealthy, the underprivileged and downtrodden, and the almost-separate world of a mental health asylum. With humour, insight, and the rare ability to hold interest over nearly 500 pages, A Beauty So Rare is a not-to-be-missed treasure for any reader of Inspirational Historical Fiction.

Likely the most enjoyable aspects of the newest addition to the Belmont Mansion series are the two primary characters, and the gradual, beautifully developed journey in wisdom and faith we are privileged to share with them. Eleanor Braddock is plain and practical – a woman who, at age 29, has resigned herself to a life of singleness and is prepared to make the best of it by realizing goals and serving others. But Marcus Geoffrey, passionate botanist, brilliant architect, and secretly the Archduke of Austria second in line for the throne, is about to change her mind – and her heart. As time goes on, events and characters threaten to shatter the delicate relationship growing between the two, leaving the question of a future together hanging in the balance.

Numerous life themes and challenging truths are woven carefully into the tapestry of the storyline constructing A Beauty So Rare. At the same time, characters mirror many of the struggles facing real people of today. Questions about inner and outer beauty, struggles with living out dreams, puzzles of hidden identity, and the reality of trusting God enough to live in the present are just a few of the ingrained truths adding to the overall value of the rare beauty found in this special story.

A Beauty So Rare truly has something for everyone… Beautiful word-illustrations of gardens, flowers, and plants will delight lovers of nature. History buffs will enjoy the accuracy of real-life details added to the fictitious plot. Volunteers with a desire to help the less-fortunate will be inspired by Eleanor’s dedication to a hope-filled cause. Clearly, I could continue listing reasons to read this heartfelt tale filled with treasures and wisdom, characters and love, but the rare beauty, the meaningful truths, may represent something entirely different to you. You may perceive truth, even rare beauty, intended only for you. Naturally, there is only one way to find out…

“Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group”

 

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Where Courage Calls review

Where Courage CallsJanette Oke, famous Canadian author and the ‘pioneer of inspirational fiction’ has returned from retirement with a brand new Historical Fiction novel, co-written with her daughter Laurel Oke Logan.  Fans of Janette’s dozens of award-winning stories of simplicity, love, and faith will be delighted with her newest release, Where Courage Calls, published by Bethany House in January of 2014.  Although this novel is clearly written in Janette’s heartfelt and simplistic style, the background leading up to the writing and subsequent publication of the book is almost as interesting as the story itself…

The Hallmark Channel production company recently released a movie based on Ms. Oke’s Canadian West book series, entitled When Calls the Heart.  A television series by the same name soon followed the movie, and is currently airing in the United States.  (Ironically, this Canadian-based series has not made it to Canadian television just yet!)  As stated by Ms. Oke, the producers of the movie and television series contacted her to inquire about her interest in writing a new novel as a companion story to their films.  She agreed – on the condition that the book could be co-authored with her daughter Laurel, also a published writer.  The result of this unusual circumstance is Where Courage Calls – a touching story of a cultured, well-to-do young woman, Beth Thatcher, who leaves her luxurious Toronto home to accept a teaching position in a coal-mining town in western Canada.

Although I can’t say whether or not the story correlates closely with the companion television series – because I have not yet viewed any episodes – the book brings to life an endearing tale all on its own.  With lovable characters, emotional issues, and a realistic setting, Where Courage Calls is built around the theme of Philippians 4:13, ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.’  Beth Thatcher relies on the truth of this verse to help her through the most difficult, and adventurous, stage of her life.  Following in the footsteps of her cousin, also named Elizabeth (from the Canadian West book series), Beth strives to bring the gift of knowledge to the tragedy-stricken town of Coal Valley.   As time goes on, however, she finds that the community has taught her just as much as she taught the children in her school.  As the end of the term draws near, Beth questions her desire to return back east, even as she realizes that Coal Valley has become her true home.

All things considered, Where Courage Calls is a sweet story that is sure to be enjoyed by many people, for many different reasons.  Where Courage Calls is sure to speak to your heart if you:

– Are a fan of Janette Oke

– Enjoy Historical Fiction, especially pioneer-era

– Have watched the When Calls the Heart movie or television series

– Love the Canadian West book series

– Are looking for a wholesome, simple story of faith

– Live in western Canada and enjoy stories from your region

Obviously the list could go on, but hopefully I have made it clear that Janette Oke’s newest release is a wonderful story you will not want to miss.  And, although it is not confirmed yet, we may be able to look forward to a sequel sometime in the future!  For now though, we can be content savoring the story held in the pages of Where Courage Calls, a delightful product of an amazing author’s return from retirement.

“Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.   Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group”

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The Pleasure of His Company review

The Pleasure of His CompanyAre you ready to take a journey towards exponential joy, deeply ingrained peace, and a relationship more rewarding than anything you could ever imagine?  Do you long for a friendship with someone who listens, comforts, and loves you unconditionally for who you are, and who you were meant to be?  Although many people don’t realize it, a true relationship with our Heavenly Father can become the most vital part of life if we just take the time and effort to nourish it, by communing with Him.  A brand new book published by Bethany House, entitled The Pleasure of His Company, shares powerful insights about stepping into the Lord’s peaceful presence simply to enjoy fellowship with him.  Author Dutch Sheets shares personal stories and biblical insights in this powerful but easy-to-read book, which is sure to be enjoyed for many reasons…

– Because this book is divided into 30 short chapters, it is perfect for use as a daily devotional.  Each chapter introduces readers to a new concept, practice, or insight, and ends with a heartfelt prayer footnoted with scriptural references.

– Dutch Sheets is a talented writer, infusing his work with emotion and personal stories.  You will undoubtedly laugh, possibly cry, and maybe even laugh until you cry!

– Taking an in-depth look at scripture, Mr. Sheets reveals the root and origin of various words found in sometimes-confusing passages of scripture.  Many times this basic study brings to light a greater understanding of God’s Word.

– The content of this delightful book is fresh, unique, and definitely not typical of many Christian books and ideas popular today.  A personal relationship with God is a foreign concept to many people, yet this is the basis of The Pleasure of His Company.

Although the excellent qualities far outweigh the negative aspects, I personally felt slightly put off by a few of the analogies presented in a couple of the chapters.  Overall, however, this book was a delightful, powerful reading journey to take, and most importantly it nourished my relationship with the Lord along the way.  I hope – and pray – that this book will bless you in many ways, inspire you to build a personal relationship with our Creator, and simply enjoy The Pleasure of His Company!

“Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.  Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group”

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The Dancing Master review

The Dancing Master imageDo you enjoy Christian Historical Fiction, but also love the elegance of ballroom dancing, beautiful gowns, and oh-so-proper courtships of Jane Austen’s Regency-era stories?  Well, award-winning author Julie Klassen has combined the best of both genres into a masterful tale you won’t want to miss.  The Dancing Master, published by Bethany House early in 2014, is an extremely well-written Regency novel filled with mystery, romance, drama, and enough plot twists to keep you guessing until the end.

Although The Dancing Master is longer than most novels of its kind, the intricate storyline and vast amount of historical details help it move along quickly.  Clearly Ms. Klassen has taken painstaking care to ensure historical accuracy, but only includes information relevant to the circumstances,  and does not overwhelm readers with unnecessary descriptions.  Many aspects of 19th century dancing are woven into the story, giving readers a taste of the grace and art required to master the often-complicated steps required in a ballroom.

Certainly one of the most enjoyable features of the book are the various quotes at the beginning of each chapter hinting at upcoming story events, but written by real people of the time period.  Advertisements for actual dancing masters, excerpts from diaries, and quotations from Jane Austen are just a few of the interesting historical samples chosen to open each chapter.

Although the in-depth historical depictions play a vital role in The Dancing Master, they do not in any way detract from the intriguing storyline and colorful characters, but rather intensify the feeling of reality for the reader.  Told from several perspectives, we see the story unfold through the eyes of two primary characters who, by the story’s end, we are certain to relate to in some way, big or small.  Woven into the story are the timeless themes, and truths, of love and grace portrayed in many different ways.

In short, The Dancing Master was a delight to read, both for its page-turning plot and fascinating attention to historical detail.  Although a few portions of the story were somewhat objectionable, including several interwoven scandals, they were treated and reacted to appropriately – as scandalous!   Ultimately, if you are looking for a longer, masterfully written novel set in the classic Regency time period and filled with truths of God’s design, look no further than The Dancing Master.

“Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group”.

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Today is the Day review

Today is The Day imageDo you have a dream hidden deep in your heart?  A dream so big, so out-of-the-ordinary, or so seemingly impossible that you’ve pushed it to the back of your mind and all but forgotten about it?  But you can’t forget about it completely, because God placed it inside you for a reason – a purpose…  Maybe now is the time to pull that dream out, dust it off, and take a deeper look at what it means to your life.  Maybe, ‘Today is the Day’.

Bil Cornelius is a best-selling author, and the founder and pastor of a large and still-growing church fellowship.  In addition, he is a believer in following your God-given dream, and his newest book brings to life various action plans to help his readers do just that.  ‘Today is the Day: Find and Embrace Your God-Given Dreams’ was published by Baker Books in January of 2014, and is certain to help anyone who feels like a personal dream is beyond reach, or is unsure how to get started on realizing a lifelong goal.  With an energetic, encouraging, easy-to-follow style, Mr. Cornelius breaks down his process for making dreams an actuality using Biblical concepts and proven methods for success.

The first portion of this book was my favourite, as it dealt with identifying if your dream is truly from God, recognizing that God has great plans for each one of His children, and breaking down the ultimate goal into tiny, daily, doable actions.  Fittingly, many Bible verses accompany each section, steeping the concepts in Biblical truth.

Towards the middle of the book, however, I felt it spoke less to me, because my dream is a quieter, smaller-scale, primarily internal-based dream.  It focused  more on readers with far-reaching dreams such as opening a business (or entire franchise!), starting a world-wide ministry or mission, or climbing to the top of a corporate ladder in a large company.  Of course, there is nothing wrong with such dreams, and the world needs large-scale dreams to bring about large-scale changes for the better.  But people with smaller, less earth-shattering dreams are also necessary, and God has given us those dreams with just as much love and care as a dream to found a multi-million dollar business.

If your dream is far-reaching and world-changing, this book could very well change your life, or at least your perspective on how you view the dream.  I can easily picture business owners hoping to expand, church leaders with a vision, and company workers with a passion for their job gaining a great deal of spiritual help and guidance from this practical book.  However, if your dream is of a quieter nature, not every aspect of this book will resonate with you…  Certain aspects may be beneficial, as they were for me, but on the whole this book may not be the best choice for readers seeking guidance towards a simple, low-key dream placed deep in the heart by our Creator.

“Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from BakerBooks, a division of Baker Publishing Group”.

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Switch On Your Brain: The Key to Peak Happiness, Thinking, and Health review

Switch On Your Brain image“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (Romans 12:2, NIV)

Have you ever considered the deeper truths of this Scripture verse, the portion that states our minds can be renewed, and it is a process that can – and will – transform our lives?  If you’ve ever felt trapped by your thought patterns, or held captive by toxic ideas or past traumas, Dr. Caroline Leaf can help you.  Her newest book, Switch On Your Brain: The Key to Peak Happiness, Thinking, and Health, was published by Baker Books in the fall of 2013.  While this book has been called ‘the owner’s manual to how our brains work’, it is also so much more.  Drawing from decades of scientific research, as well as her own Christian faith and beliefs, Dr. Leaf shares with us in an understandable, scientific language the fundamental functions of the brain. Using these facts as a foundation, she then explains how, with the Holy Spirit and Scripture as our guides, we can transform our minds from toxic to healthy.  In essence, we can ‘detox‘ our brains.

Just a few of the incredible points made in this little book include:

– Science is just beginning to catch up with the Bible, showing us the evidence of verses such as 2 Timothy 1:7.  “For God hath not given us a spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”  (KJV)

– Neuroplasticity, the concept that shows how changes in thinking actually change the structure of the brain and effect behavioral change, can truly help us renew our minds and, consequently, transform our lives.  (Romans 12:2)

– In dozens of cases encountered and documented by Dr. Leaf, people of all ages who applied the steps and perseverance necessary to detox their minds excelled beyond all typical expectations.  For example, car accident victims deemed by neurologists as ‘vegetables’ managed to retrain their brains enough to complete their education and became successful, contributing citizens.

– In the later portions of her book, Dr. Leaf outlines the basis for her 5-Step Switch On Your Brain Learning Process, which is used each day in the 21-Day Brain Detox Plan, also outlined in this book.

If you are like me, the large amount of scientific data contained in the pages of Switch On Your Brain may be a little intimidating.  However, I discovered that by focusing on the portions you are able to understand, and using them as a tool for bringing the focus of your mind closer to God, your life will be transformed.  If you let the Holy Spirit work in you as you read the information contained within this book, Philippians 4:8 will become the ‘new normal’ of your thought life.  “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things.”

“Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from BakerBooks, a division of Baker Publishing Group”.

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A Simple Christmas Wish review

A Simple Christmas Wish imageAre you looking for a sweet, heartwarming story to read this Christmas season?  Maybe you like a story with a little drama, a hint of mystery, and enough emotional twists to make you laugh and even cry – just a little?  Or perhaps your ideal Christmas story contains personable characters who find a home for their hearts during the holidays.  Well, your search may be over.  A story that fits each of these conditions is available from bestselling author Melody Carlson, and is called A Simple Christmas Wish.

Published by Revell in the fall of 2013, A Simple Christmas Wish is a continuation of the annual tradition started by Melody Carlson, who delights readers with a heartwarming Christmas novella each holiday season.  For readers who have enjoyed her stories in past Decembers, or those just discovering these holiday treasures, A Simple Christmas Wish is sure to delight with its unique simplicity.

A very special quality of this story is the strong bond of love between Rachel Milligan and her brother’s child, Holly.  While babysitting her beloved niece in Chicago just a few weeks before Christmas, Rachel’s world is turned upside down with tragic news of her only surviving family members.  Just as she picks herself up from the terrible turn of events, yet another unwelcome surprise confronts her, leaving her with only one option.  Drive to the heart of Amish country, visit a family she never knew existed, and convince them not to take her niece away.  Will this be the worst Christmas imaginable, or will Rachel – and Holly – receive the wishes of their hearts?

A Simple Christmas Wish very much reflects its title…  It IS simple, both in writing and plot.  The writing style is very basic, and you will not be blown away by brilliant dialog or incredible imagery.  The characters occasionally lack the emotion their scene demands, and the children’s words do not always reflect their age.  However, this story possesses a big heart, and the interwoven theme of the importance of family pardons a less-than-perfect writing style.  All aspects considered, A Simple Christmas Wish is a sweet and simple story of love and hope at Christmastime and – if you can forgive a very basic writing style – just may become your new holiday tradition.

“Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 
Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group”.

 

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A Million Little Ways review

A Million Little Ways imageDo you think of yourself as an artist?  If you’re like me, and likely a huge percentage of the population, your answer will be a definite ‘no’.  The ordinary professional, mother, student, or anyone who doesn’t paint or sing or write for a living, most often does not list ‘makes art’ among their capabilities and accomplishments.  But Emily P. Freeman, author of the incredible little book entitled A Million Little Ways, challenges us to change our views…  To realize that we were born to make art, designed to live art, and in fact we ARE art!

I found this hard to believe at first.  The thought of myself as a work of art, let alone an artist, seemed confusing and went against my perceptions of what art meant.  After reading just the first few pages of A Million Little Ways, however, my thinking began to change.  I began to understand the truth about art, and the way God defines it.  Emily explains that God created us to be image bearers – image bearers of a CREATIVE God, a God who makes and lives and breathes art.  As image bearers, we have a job to do.  We are on this earth to reflect His image by living lives filled with art.  As Emily states, “Art is what happens when you dare to be who you really are.”

A recurring idea within this story begins in the chapter titled ‘Reflect’.  In one portion, Emily paints a portrait with words of something beautiful, because it is true.  In Ephesians 2:10, where it states we are God’s masterpiece, Emily shows us something found only by searching a little deeper.  Did you know that the word ‘masterpiece’, sometimes translated as ‘workmanship’, originated from the Greek word poiema?  Our English word for poem comes from the same root word.  Do you see what this means?  We are God’s poetry.  When God writes poetry, when He expresses Himself, we come into being.  Isn’t this a beautiful truth to hold in our hearts?

I cannot begin to touch on the many incredible aspects of living life as an artist depicted within the pages of A Million Little Ways.  I pray that you will be able to read it for yourself, and encounter truths meant just for you.  Emily Freeman is indeed living her life filled with art, if the power and truth of God within her words is any indication.  And I truly believe that it is.  Please let Emily’s words speak to your heart as you read A Million Little Ways.  Your view and purpose for life may never be the same.

“Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 
Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group”.

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Song of My Heart review

SongOfMyHeart-TP_cover2.inddFans of Kim Vogel Sawyer will be delighted with her newest release from Bethany House Publishers,* entitled Song of My Heart. As with many of her previous works, this newest novel falls into the Historical Fiction genre, but could fit into both Inspirational and Romance categories as well.  Set in a small Kansas town in the late 19th century, Song of My Heart is a sweetly flowing, melodic story of love and forgiveness, but not without a share of drama and adventure, and even a touch of mystery, all of which came with prohibition laws and their consequent bootlegging operations.

A generally expected trademark of Kim Vogel Sawyer’s books is that her always colorful cast of characters will become as dear to you as beloved friends, and will captivate you from the first pages with their sweetness, and sense of physical – not merely imaginary – existence.  Sadie Wagner the heroine, and Thad McKane the hero, both fulfill these expectations excellently. Likewise, Sadie’s desperation to provide for her family, and Thad’s desire to clean the blemish from his family’s name, will become as important to readers as to each character.

Originally a resident of Indiana, Sadie responds to her cousin’s invitation to join him in Goldtree, Kansas, where the ‘perfect’ job awaits her, giving her the means to provide for her beloved family while putting her beautiful singing voice to use.  Soon after arriving, however, Sadie realizes that things are not what they appear to be, and that her new employer is hiding dark secrets and creating unlawful plans, both which involve her.  Sadie is forced to make decisions that will affect not only herself but the entire community, especially the man she is growing to love – Sheriff Thad McKane.

The main theme of the story is of releasing past regrets – of forgiving yourself, and others, for something that is in the past and must be left behind.  Thad realizes that he is only accountable for himself, not for the sins of his father before him – basically, he doesn’t need to become a preacher to make up for his father’s terrible mistakes.  Also shown in the story is the importance of trusting in God first and foremost, without leaning only on our own understanding.  Sadie finally sees that she need not struggle in caring for her family alone, but that God will care for and protect them all – her most important job is simply to trust Him.

Song of My Heart delivers all that readers have come to expect from each one of Kim Vogel Sawyer’s stories – simplicity, sweetness, love, and realistic characters.  Her books very rarely contain uncomfortable or questionable content, and are simply a joy to read.  This novel in particular contained plenty of drama, history, and humor (largely in the form of two very quirky secondary characters!).  Everything was tied up perfectly at the end, making the reader reluctant for the story to be over, but content that everything is as it should be. Finally, the writing style in Song of My Heart was very warm and relaxing, making the story truly feel as melodious and lovely as one of Sadie’s own heartfelt songs.

***Note:  I received this book free of charge for review purposes, courtesy of Bethany House Publishers and Graf-Martin Communications.  I would like to say thank you very much for sending it to me.

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A Home for My Heart review

A Home for My Heart cover imageFrom the beautiful artwork of the front cover to the heart-melting words on the final pages, Anne Mateer’s newest novel, A Home for My Heart, is a warm, inspiring story reminiscent of beloved authors such as Janette Oke and Kim Vogel Sawyer.  Filled with unique twists and endearing characters, the story takes place in the interesting setting of a small orphanage and foster home.  Through the first-person narrative of assistant matron to the home, Sadie Sillsby, we observe as she encounters a life-changing decision, one that alters everything she thought was important, and every person she’s held dear.  As Sadie faces losing Blaine, the man she’s loved since childhood, the financial future of her beloved orphanage and its inhabitants hangs in the balance.  As questions and debates arise for Sadie, we as readers will find ourselves asking how we can trust in God’s plan, even when it seems we are being forced to choose between two good things.

Do you love perfect endings?  Then you will be sure to savour this one!  The beginning, however, gets off to a slightly slow start, perhaps due to the limiting perspective of first-person.  At times I would have appreciated the wider picture another one, two, or even three perspectives would be sure to add.  Sadie herself is not completely likeable, due to certain tendencies and attitudes about various issues, until at least halfway through the book.  Nevertheless, by the two-thirds mark her heart is changed and we find in her a friend worthy of sharing her story.  Sadie realizes that her work at the orphanage is only meaningful if her true worth is based in God, not in herself or the work itself.  As her thoughts reveal, “If I believed God truly loved me, I could share that love with others, and it would make a difference.  An eternal difference.  Because of the work the Lord had done in me, not because of the work I’d done for Him.”

Two significant aspects of this endearing tale stand out, making it memorable and touching.  First, the children of the story add several dimensions including humour, heart-wrenching backgrounds, and touching happy-endings when several are placed in families who love them.  Second, the love of Sadie’s life, Blaine, possesses a love for her that is truly reflective of the 1st Corinthians definition.  As Sadie depicts, “He’d never quit caring for me.  Never quit taking care of me, while I’d been selfish and fickle, sought out station and accolades to make me forget that little girl they brought out of her mother’s prison cell.  Could he truly forgive that?”  Blaine’s response shows his character, “I’d do anything to make you happy…  I love you, Sadie.  I’ve loved you since the moment Carter and I walked into that warm kitchen.  Ten years old with ancient eyes, you understood suffering the way I did.”

If you want to enjoy a heartwarming story of love, sacrifice, and second chances, you will not want to miss A Home for My Heart.  It is sure to bring a smile to your face, and if you are like me, a few tears to your eyes as well.  Although it may take a little while to become immersed in the story, the end results are worth it, guaranteed.

“Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group”.