For years now, whenever a new book is released by neuroscientist Dr. Caroline Leaf, I am quick to add a copy to my TBR list. Her work has impacted me tremendously, and I have recommended her insights to many people I know. While her newest publication from Baker Books has a bit of a contentious title (it is not something I can easily give as a gift without offending the recipient!) it is powerful and potentially life-changing nonetheless. “Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess: 5 Simple, Scientifically Proven Steps to Reduce Anxiety, Stress, and Toxic Thinking” is a powerhouse of a book. Packed with up-to-date brain research from Dr. Leaf’s own clinical studies and the research of other scientists, this book combines science with practical application. Continue reading
“A Mosaic of Wings” by Kimberly Duffy is one of the most unique and captivating works of historical fiction I’ve read in a long time. . . It is very difficult to believe this is a debut novel! Published by Bethany House, this powerful book leaps into topics I’ve never before encountered in the genre, and the result was utterly enchanting. 
Did you know mindfulness has been practiced by Christians for centuries? I did not know this. In “Holy Noticing: The Bible, Your Brain, and the Mindful Space Between Moments”, the author shares tools to practice a mindful lifestyle and how to use it in our own lives. He takes a common sense, experienced, and scientific view of present moment awareness, and mindfulness. And, he examines and describes how to reduce anxiety in our lives by re-wiring our brain through what he calls “holy noticing”. 
When Susie Larson says that she’s “never written a more raw book”, her readers take notice. Almost from the moment I picked up her newest release from Bethany House entitled “Fully Alive: Learning to Flourish – Mind, Body & Spirit”, I could sense that this was a powerful work, and as I began reading this feeling was solidified into fact. Susie holds nothing back, as she pours her heart and soul into the pages. It is overflowing with what can be nothing less than God speaking through her, and the result is a book that I think will be transformational in the lives of many. 
After finishing Ted Dekker’s new release “The 49th Mystic”, I was eagerly anticipating its sequel “Rise of the Mystics”. After experiencing the profound nature of the 49th, I wondered if this sequel would live up to my expectations. The answer is yes – a hundred times yes. 
Elizabeth Camden’s unique writing style, combined with fascinating and factual historical elements of scientific discoveries, always makes for can’t-put-it-down reading material. Her newest novel from Bethany House is “A Daring Venture”, and is the sequel to “A Dangerous Legacy” which released last year. 
Ted Dekker’s “The 49th Mystic” – easily the most unique and profound novel I have read in years and perhaps ever. I did not know what to expect. And yet even without clear expectations, it still managed to surpass them. Honestly, I believe I could read this book ten times over and still not be finished learning from it. 
