Having read three books now by Amanda Dykes, it is clear that this author possesses a divinely-bestowed talent with words. Rarely have I read such poetic writing in a novel. “All the Lost Places” brings readers this signature writing style in a very unique setting, one that I don’t believe I have ever seen before in a novel – Venice, and in two different time periods. Continue reading
Poetry
A Fascinating And Fun Look At Biblical Genres
“Literarily: How Understanding Bible Genres Transforms Bible Study” is one of the most unique handbooks for Scriptural study that I’ve read. Written by Kristie Anyabwile and published by Moody, this book is practical and thought-provoking, and also a lot of fun to read! Continue reading
Answering the Question: What Does Art Have To Do With Faith?

“Discovering God Through the Arts: How We Can Grow Closer to God by Appreciating Beauty & Creativity” is a new release from Moody Publishers that immediately caught my attention. In this book, author Terry Glaspey asks (and answers) the question “what does art have to do with faith?” I’ve always been interested in this topic, because I believe that art – including music, films, novels, etc. – can be beneficial for more than just entertainment. This book helped me articulate HOW the arts can help build our faith and encourage thoughtful contemplation and growth in all areas of life.
Continue readingThis Story Is Like A Poem – Guest Review by Hayley

When I first opened the cover of “Set the Stars Alight”, I had no idea just how special of a book I had the privilege of reading. Now, having come to the end of this incredible masterpiece, I truly cannot tell you how much it has blessed me.
Continue readingA Must-Have Journal For All Writers – Aspiring and Experienced Alike
January is a month of goal-setting and resolutions. This month I’ve started a new daily habit that I’m hoping will kick-start my creativity for writing again, and I think all writers (aspiring or experienced) will enjoy it as much as I do. “My Unedited Writing Year: 365 Invitations to Free Your Creativity and the Writer Within” was written by Hope Lyda and published by Harvest House at the end of 2019. It is truly a one-of-a-kind volume. I’ve been following along with the prompts every day this month, and am enthusiastic to continue using this interactive journal for the entire year of 2020 – who knows what will come of this exciting adventure?! Continue reading
A Captivating Work of Art
I just finished reading a book that can be described in one word… wow. It was a work of art unlike anything I’ve read before. Continue reading
A Treasure of Keys to Unlock New Worlds – “Book Girl” is My New Must-Read Book of the Year!
Imagine a treasure chest being delivered to your doorstep one day. After staring in wonder for a moment, you carefully lift open the lid, and gasp at the treasure inside – dozens and dozens of keys! Each one is labelled with a little description of what that key will unlock, and after a moment you realize that each one is meant to open a door to a different world. Judging by the brief descriptions attached to each key, some of those worlds are places you could never imagine, and others are actually where you’ve always wanted to go. You will learn different lessons in each location, and meet different people, but always you will grow, and always you will return home a different person than when you left. Continue reading
Amazing Resource Adds New Dimensions to Studying the Psalms – Guest Review by Hayley
The book of Psalms is undoubtedly one of the most beloved books of the Bible. It certainly is for me. Still, I never truly realized the deeper meanings found throughout the Psalms. The many facets of the writing style, the structure, the imagery and many other aspects all work together to create this much deeper meaning than I would have understood at first glance. “Discovering Hope in the Psalms” by Pam Farrel, Jean E. Jones, and Karla Dornacher, is an invaluable resource to help you discover that deeper meaning. Continue reading
Charming and Simple – Give it a Try!
Do you enjoy poetry, especially short poems with universally applicable ideas and themes? If so, I invite you to give a new book by a new author a try. ‘Fits of Tranquility’ by Robert Lampros is described as ‘a book of poetry and prose about hope, healing, perseverance, and joy, as well as faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and falling in love.’
Containing over 20 unique poems and short stories, this book ranges in topic from inspiring images of nature to thought-provoking stories filled with charming dialog and everything in between. With some portions, the intent of the author is very clear while at other times the meaning is more vague, leaving readers to bring their own perspectives to the words. A few of my favorite selections include: ‘Verdure’, ‘For What It’s Worth’, and ‘Invisible Arms’. Continue reading
Hope is a Traveler review
In June of 2015, a new voice in the world of heartfelt, compassionate poetry will be revealed. Her name is Susan Frybort, and her first formal poetry collection is entitled Hope is a Traveler. Published by the small, specialized Canadian publishing company of Enrealment Press, this book contains dozens of unique and emotion-filled poems each with a heartfelt message to us, the readers. As stated by the publisher, “Susan Frybort reminds us of the glory that resides at the heart of everyday living.”
With an easy-flowing, graceful voice, the author shares her views of the world through images Continue reading