The Romance (& Humor!) at Fort Reno Continues

Do you enjoy Christian Historical Fiction with a western setting and a flair for humor? I know I do! Regina Jennings’ newest novel from Bethany House is the second in her “Fort Reno” series, and is entitled “The Lieutenant’s Bargain”. Although recurring characters from “Holding the Fort” appear regularly, this is a story all it’s own – with plenty of sweet romance, a taste of wild west danger, a dose of laugh-out-loud humor, and some thought-provoking themes about faith, trust, idols, and love. It is also set during the Christmas season, making it a fun story to read in December. Continue reading

Looking for an Achievable New Year’s Resolution? Start by Switching On Your Brain Every Day!!

Dr. Caroline Leaf’s newest book makes the ideal New Year’s gift, both for yourself and for your loved ones. “Switch On Your Brain Every Day: 365 Readings for Peak Happiness, Thinking, and Health” is a new release from BakerBooks, and makes fantastic daily reading material for anyone who has enjoyed Dr. Leaf’s previous works, such as “Switch On Your Brain” and “The Perfect You”. It could also certainly be enjoyed and learned from even if you haven’t read these titles, but the greatest benefit will be gained if you are familiar with the concepts of Dr. Leaf’s Switch On Your Brain 5-Step Learning Process. Continue reading

Another Fantastic Romantic Suspense Novel from Lynn Blackburn

When it comes to Romantic Suspense, I have pretty strict criteria that the novel must meet before it earns a place on my “keeper” shelf. “In Too Deep” is the second story in Lynn H. Blackburn’s “Dive Team Investigations” series from Revell Publishers, and it is one that I am happy to say meets all of my expectations. Continue reading

A Powerful, 365-Day Devotional from John Eldredge – Guest Review by Hayley

John Eldredge is one of my go-to authors for spiritual development books.  I was absolutely thrilled to see a year-long devotional as his newest book: “Restoration Year: A 365-Day Devotional”. Continue reading

A Wonderful Guide to “Adulting”!

Adulting. . .  You’ve probably heard the word, and perhaps read a humorous joke or cartoon about the concept of becoming an adult in today’s world.  But have you ever questioned how to actually ‘Adult’ (a verb) in a responsible and God-honoring way that will lay a solid foundation for the rest of your life?  Or, have you ever asked the question “I’m an adult…NOW WHAT?”  If either of these questions applies to you, a new release from BakerBooks written by pastor Jonathan “JP” Pokluda with Kevin McConaghy is definitely one that should be added to your TBR list.   Continue reading

A Unique Amish Civil War Story

The American Civil War is the setting of many novels, but have you ever read a story from the Amish perspective of the War Between the States? Jan Drexler’s new release from Revell Publishing, entitled “The Sound of Distant Thunder”, combines historical research with a compelling personal saga as it explores this very question: how can a group of people, who are nonresistance-based due to religion, live conscientiously in times of war and especially when the draft (compulsory recruitment) is brought into play? Continue reading

Gripping New Romantic Suspense from a New-to-Me Author

Critics are claiming that Kelly Irvin’s new release from Thomas Nelson is romantic suspense at it’s best. “Tell Her No Lies” is definitely a well-written and hair-raising ride from start to finish, packed with twists and turns that readers will never see coming. If you enjoy novels that leave you breathless as you flip the pages faster and faster, desperate to find out how it all unravels, this book is definitely one to consider… However, you should also be forewarned that there is plenty of violence, and even descriptive murder scenes, that may prove troubling if you aren’t expecting them. Continue reading

A “Beginner’s Guide” to Overcoming Insecurity

Insecurity. It’s a topic most, if not all, of women can relate to at some point in their lives. Author and counselor Donna Gibbs’ new release from Revell Publishers wades into the discussion, helping us say goodbye to insecurity and change how we think about ourselves. “Silencing Insecurity: Believing God’s Truth About You” is a well-thought-out book that will likely inspire many readers. But… for me, it lacked the depth that I was hoping for. Continue reading

A Compelling, Visually-Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Biblical Prophesy

If you have ever wondered about biblical prophecy, even if it was just a passing question that stirred your interest, I highly recommend reading a new release from Harvest House Publishers. Written and illustrated by Todd Hampson, “The Non- Prophet’s Guide to the End Times: Biblical Prophecy for Everyone” is an engaging and understandable book that is overflowing with down-to-earth information, helping us understand the ins and outs of the important element of prophecy in the Bible. Todd Hampson promises this book will a) cut through the complexity and confusion of his topic, b) be entertaining and user-friendly, and c) be full of fascinating visuals, timelines, and charts – and this book more than delivers on every promise. Continue reading

Highly Recommended Book About Defeating Envy in Our Lives

It’s a topic that is rarely discussed, but that affects all of us at some time or another. I’m talking about the feeling of envy, the sensation of a stinging heart when someone receives the very thing we desire. “Seeing Green: Don’t Let Envy Color Your Joy” is a challenging new book written by Tilly Dillehay and published by Harvest House. If you have ever struggled with the ugly effects of envy in your life, this enlightening and Scripture-founded book will undoubtedly provide both a balm and a wake-up call for your heart. Continue reading