First Book of the Year 2024 - Audible Book Review: The Josiah Manifesto by Jonathan Cahn

Cahn shares amazing confluences that are God incidences, not coincidence. I always enjoy this author and I saved this to be my FIRST BOOK OF THE YEAR for 2024.

The Josiah Manifesto

By: Jonathan Cahn

Narrated by: Lawrence Richardson

Length: 8 hrs and 47 mins
Release date: 09-05-23 Publisher: Frontline
Genre: Christian Eschatology, Christian Living
My Rating: 4.75 overall; 4.75 Text; 4.75 Narration.

Publisher's summary
Is there an answer, a guide, a blueprint that reveals what you need to know to survive, to stand, and to prevail in view of what’s coming in the days ahead?
Has it been revealed to us in the appearing of a sign from an ancient mystery playing out in modern times before our eyes?
After seven explosive New York Times Bestsellers, Jonathan Cahn now releases his newest blockbuster—THE JOSIAH MANIFESTO - The Ancient Mystery & Guide for the End-Times—as mind-blowing as all his bestsellers—and with something different: the Blueprint, the Answer—the Manifesto!
The Josiah Manifesto opens up the stunning mysteries that lie behind the dramatic events of recent times that have changed our world—and the message hidden within them with regard to what lies ahead.
Could a 3000 year-old calendar of appointed days provide the secret to the most dramatic year of our lives—even ordaining a plague, a national lockdown, days of fire, and the changing of the Supreme Court?
Could an ancient temple, an ominous prayer, and a mysterious template lie behind the event that overtook Capitol Hill and shook the nation?
Could an enigmatic ancient king reveal the secret of a modern American president?
Could an ordinance given in the middle of a desert 3000 years ago have determined the rise and fall of a Latin American dictator?
Could an ancient array of mysteries from the Middle East have converged on Washington DC in a single hour to change the history of America?
What does the future hold? Is America heading for calamity? Is the world?
Is there hope? Have we been given a last chance? Is it possible to change history?
And is there a blueprint for what you need to know to survive and stand with regard to what is yet to come—even a guide to the ‘end-times’?
The Josiah Manifesto will take you on a prophetic journey from a Caribbean island to the Washington D.C. to the ancient Valley of Hinnom to the Supreme Court to a desert mountain to an ancient Middle Eastern temple to the gates of America—to uncover an ancient puzzle that lies behind the events that have altered our lives—Including …
The Island of Mysteries – The House of Fallen Children – The Heavenly Court – The Child of the Nile – The Agents of Heaven on Earth – The Stranger in the Living Room – The Mystery of Days … And Much, Much More!
And could these mysteries give you the key to what you need to know to prevail in the days to come—even a guide to the end times?
It will all be revealed in THE JOSIAH MANIFESTO – The Ancient Mystery & Guide for the End-Times!
The book you can’t afford not to listen to!
©2023 Jonathan Cahn (P)2023 Frontline

Review:
Jonathan Cahn has shared other works with remarkable events in history that are mirrored in the modern years. He often shares on the Jubilee years and in this book he makes it clear that the Year of Jubilee (every 50 year anniversary, starting in the 49th year) brings punishment and restoration. Cahn shares extraordinary events on a Jubilee visit he made to Cuba in 1999. 

Cahn then makes a parallel with the downfall (punishment) of Israel due in part to accepting the pagan practice of sacrificing babies to pagan gods with the Covid pandemic and potential fall of America as a result of years and millions of deaths of babies through the practice of abortion, particularly since the case of Roe v Wade was decided in 1973. This was a Texas abortion case ruled on by the United States Supreme Court of that year which said that the Constitution of the United States generally protected a right to have an abortion. Over the next 49 years his case was interpreted to allow abortion ‘on demand’ in America.

In addition to connecting ancient threads with modern events, Cahn connects detail after detail between the 1973 Roe case with the case of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, which was ruled on by the Supreme Court on June 24, 2022 -during the 49th year, or the Year of Jubilee. Dobbs, which involved a challenge to a Mississippi ban on abortion at 15 weeks of pregnancy, overturned Roe. 

[*Side note: Many critics said the Dobbs' ruling ended “the federal constitutional right to abortion in the United States.”  The Court in 2022 said this is not a correct statement as the constitution does not contain such a right. The Roe decision was inappropriate by the 1973 Court as they attempted to make federal law instead of leaving the matter in the hands of the States as is provided by the constitution. The Supreme Court is a judicial branch to interpret laws, and should not be used to make law, which is the province of Congress, our legislative branch. Dobbs returned the issue to the province of the States in accordance with Amendment 10. https://constitutioncenter.org/the-constitution/supreme-court-case-library/dobbs-v-jackson-womens-health-organization.]

The connections made by Cahn are once again remarkable, and in my opinion, clearly a God thing as there are so many ‘confluences’ that match the Jubilee template. There is some repetition but it didn’t detract from my enjoyment of the work. After providing these many remarkable connections, Cahn spends the last several chapters promoting salvation and exhorting believers to be like the church in Acts which didn’t just sit and pray but took action to promote the gospel and living as God calls His followers to live.

I am always impressed by the insight that Jonathan Cahn offers. I encourage everyone to read his books with an open heart.

Audio Notes: Lawrence Richardson provides clear narration and consistent emphasis to this work. I enjoyed the audiobook.

Source: 9/17/2023 August Audible Credit. This qualifies for First Book, 2024Audiobook and 2024Alphabet goals.

First Book of the Year 2023: The Return of the Gods by Jonathan Cahn

I enjoy participating in the event hosted by Sheila at Book Journey.

I have participated in First Book (links to my posts) since 2014 with these books:
2014: The Harbinger by Jonathan Cahn (audio and print)
2015: Shopping for Time: How to Do It All and NOT Be Overwhelmed by Carolyn Mahaney (ebook)
2016: X Minus One 3 short story Vintage Sci Fi (audio)
2017: All In: You Are One Decision Away From a Totally Different Life by Mark Batterson (print)
2018: What If God Wrote Your To-Do List?: 52 Ways to Make the Most of Every Day by Jay Payleitner (ebook)
2019: The Prayer of Jesus by Kevin Jackson (ebook)
2020: The Possibility of America How the Gospel Can Mend Our God-Blessed,God-Forsaken Land by David Dark (ebook)
2021: The Harbinger II The Return by Jonathan Cahn (audio and print)
2022: The Case for a Creator by Lee Strobel (audio)

This is an author I am always glad to return to for a First Book choice!

The Return of the Gods
By: Jonathan Cahn
Narrated by: Lawrence Richardson
Length: 8 hrs and 34 mins
Source: 12/3122 Audible Credit.
Publisher's Summary
In The Return of the Gods, Cahn takes the listener on a journey from an ancient parable, the ancient inscriptions in Sumer, Assyria, and Babylonia that become the puzzle pieces behind what is taking place in our world to this day, specifically in America.
The mystery involves the gods. Who are they? What are they? And is it possible that these beings, whose origins are from ancient times, are the unseen catalysts of modern culture?
Is it possible that these gods lie behind the most pivotal events, forces, and movements taking place in our nation and around the world at this very moment? Are the gods at this very moment transforming our culture, our children, our lives, and America itself?
Could this mystery have even determined the exact days on which Supreme Court decisions had to be handed down?
What is the Dark Trinity?
Is it possible that what we in the modern world take as nothing more than ancient mythology could actually possess a reality beyond our fathoming?
Who is the Possessor? The Enchanter? The Destroyer? And the Sorceress?
Could a sign that has appeared all over America and the world be linked to the gods of Mesopotamia? And if so, what does it actually mean?
Could the gods have returned to New York City and an ancient mythology played out on the streets in real time?
Is it possible that the gods lie behind everything from what appears on our computer monitors, our televisions and movie screens; to the lessons given in our classrooms; to the breakdown of the family; to wokism; to the occult; to our addictions; to the Supreme Court; to cancel culture; to children's cartoons; to every force and factor that has transformed the parameters of gender; to that which appears in our stores, on our T-shirts, and on our coffee mugs—to that which is, at this very moment, transforming America and much of the world? Is it possible that behind all these things are ancient mysteries that go back to the Middle East and ancient Mesopotamia? This and so much more, most of which we can't even reveal in this description, will be uncovered.
Is it possible that the gods are even affecting your life right now? How can you recognize it? And what can you do about it?
The Return of the Gods is not only one of the most explosive books you'll ever listen to but also one of the most profound. It will reveal the most stunning secrets and truths behind what is happening before your eyes in America and the nations. You will see things, even in your world, in a whole new light. With such chapters as “The House of Spirits,” “The Avatar,” “The Masters,” “The Deep Magic,” and “The Day of the Goddess,” The Return of the Gods will take listeners on a fascinating, unforgettable, and mind-blowing journey that will leave them stunned and with the ability to see the world as they never have before.
Be prepared to be blown away as you open up Jonathan Cahn's most explosive book ever, The Return of the Gods!
©2022 Jonathan Cahn (P)2022 Frontline

I had to manage an awkward selfie since this was a last minute choice and I didn't have someone to take a picture.

First Book of the Year 2022: The Case for a Creator by Lee Strobel

 We get to say "goodbye" to another 'interesting' year as we Welcome 2022 with hopes of improvement.

Thanks again to Sheila @ Book Journey for hosting this fun event.

I have participated in First Book (links to my posts) since 2014 with these books:
2014: The Harbinger by Jonathan Cahn (audio and print)
2015: Shopping for Time: How to Do It All and NOT Be Overwhelmed by Carolyn Mahaney (ebook)
2016: X Minus One 3 short story Vintage Sci Fi (audio)
2017: All In: You Are One Decision Away From a Totally Different Life by Mark Batterson (print)
2018: What If God Wrote Your To-Do List?: 52 Ways to Make the Most of Every Day by Jay Payleitner (ebook)
2019: The Prayer of Jesus by Kevin Jackson (ebook)
2020: The Possibility of America How the Gospel Can Mend Our God-Blessed,God-Forsaken Land by David Dark (ebook)
2021: The Harbinger II The Return by Jonathan Cahn (audio and print.

As you can see, except for 2016 I have picked Christian or self help books. This year I narrowed the field to a social (political) treatise (commentary), American Marxism, and the book I have chosen.

I am working on updating a Bible study on Creation which I did over 20 years ago. [I just discovered that I have (hopefully only momentarily) misplaced my prior study folder! ARGGH..]

The Case for a Creator
By: Lee Strobel
Narrated by: Lee Strobel
Length: 10 hrs and 59 mins
Release date: 10-05-04
I've had this ebook and have planned to read this for a while. Now I can listen to it.
Source: May 18 Purchase at $2.99 with Whispersync.
Publisher's Summary
Discover the astonishing evidence for intelligent design in this New York Times best-selling book by award-winning journalist Lee Strobel.
"My road to atheism was paved by science...but, ironically, so was my later journey to God," Strobel says.
During his academic years, Lee Strobel became convinced that God was obsolete, a belief that colored his journalism career. Science had made the idea of a creator irrelevant - or so Strobel thought.
But today science points in a different direction. A diverse and impressive body of research has increasingly supported the conclusion that the universe was intelligently designed. At the same time, Darwinism has faltered in the face of concrete facts and hard reason. Has science discovered God? At the very least, it's giving faith an immense boost, as new findings emerge about the incredible complexity of our universe.
Join Strobel as he reexamines the theories that once led him away from God. Through his compelling and highly readable account, you'll encounter the mind-stretching discoveries from cosmology, cellular biology, DNA research, astronomy, physics, and human consciousness that present compelling evidence in The Case for a Creator.

First Book of the Year 2021 - The Harbinger II: The Return by Jonathan Cahn

Goodbye 2020!  Welcome to 2021!

I'm guessing most of us are glad to begin a new year of reading!

Thank you to Sheila at Bookjourney who continues to host First Book!

My first book for 2021 is The Harbinger II, The Return, by Jonathan Cahn.

I will be listening on Audible but we also have the print book to follow along.

 

This is particularly fun as I read The Harbinger as first book 2014 when this feature started.

The Harbinger II
The Return
By: Jonathan Cahn
Narrated by: Lawrence Richardson
Series: The Harbinger, Book 2
Length: 10 hrs and 14 mins 

I have enjoyed Jonathan Cahn's prior books and I am looking forward to reading/listening to this.
Source: Audible August 2020 credit and print purchase.
Publisher's Summary
Are the unprecedented crises of our times the signs and warnings of coming judgment? Does an ancient mystery hold the secret to the events of our times and the future of America and the world? Is this mystery even behind the shakings that have now overtaken the world and America? How much time do we have left?

In 2012, Jonathan Cahn caused a worldwide sensation with the release of his first book, and massive best seller, The Harbinger. It was hailed as "stunning", "prophetic", "mind-blowing", and "astonishing". Cahn followed it with best seller after best seller, but he has always held off on writing a sequel. But now, for the first time, Cahn opens up what could not be unlocked before - the mysteries that couldn’t be revealed until the present time, the manifestations that have taken place since The Harbinger came out and up to the present hour, and the mysteries of what is yet to come.
Ever since The Harbinger was released, people have been asking:

Is an ancient mystery determining America’s future?
Have the harbingers of judgment continued to manifest on American soil?
Is America closer now than ever before to judgment, and what lies ahead for America and the world?

©2020 Jonathan Cahn (P)2020 Charisma House

First Book of the Year 2020: The Possibility of America by David Dark

Welcome to a new year, 2020!

A big thanks to Sheila at bookjourney for hosting again.

The Possibility of America
How the Gospel Can Mend Our God-Blessed,
God-Forsaken Land
by David Dark
As I watch the societal strife in America I pray for a calmer, kinder future.
I have chosen this as my First Book for 2020.
SOURCE: 2019 NetGalley.
Published in the years following 9/11, David Dark’s book The Gospel according to America warned American Christianity about the false worship that conflates love of country with love of God. It delved deeply into the political divide that had gripped the country and the cultural captivity into which so many American churches had fallen.

In our current political season, the problems Dark identified have blossomed. The assessment he brought to these problems and the creative resources for resisting them are now more important than ever. Into this new political landscape and expanding on the analysis of The Gospel according to America, Dark offers The Possibility of America: How the Gospel Can Mend Our God-Blessed, God-Forsaken Land. Dark expands his vision of a fractured yet redeemable American Christianity, bringing his signature mix of theological, cultural, and political analysis to white supremacy, evangelical surrender, and other problems of the Trump era.

I'm looking forward to this as we start another new year.

Book Review (First Book 2019): The Prayer of Jesus by Kevin Jackson

This is a fine book to learn, or remember, the power of The Lord's Prayer.

The Prayer of Jesus
by Kevin Jackson

File Size: 2047 KB
Print Length: 146 pages
Publisher: The Association of Christian Businesses (May 13, 2014)
ASIN: B00KC8FVWC
Genre: Christian, Spiritual Growth
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

The Bible contains over three hundred references to prayer, and yet, eighty-five percent of believers are dissatisfied with their prayer lives. In The Prayer of Jesus, pastor, teacher, and author Kevin Jackson bridges the gap between the responsibility of prayer and the dissatisfaction we experience in prayer. He explains and applies the simple model for prayer which Jesus taught His original disciples. If you want to have a better, more consistent prayer life, then The Prayer of Jesus is the book for you.

Review:
I chose this book as my First Book of 2019 because I felt the need to strengthen my prayer life. As often is the case it is a good thing to go back to basics when you need a refresher.

Kevin Jackson doesn’t use a new prayer, but he uses the best prayer example: what most of us know as The Lord’s Prayer from Matthew 6:9-13. He separates the prayer into eight distinct petitions and then expands on the depth and import of each line. He shares other supporting scripture and attributes of God.

I liked how the study was set forth and I appreciated the questions at the end of each section. These give the reader the opportunity for self-examination and response to make sure the importance of the lesson has been absorbed. The end of each chapter also shares scripture references for added depth and then some example prayers using the petition.

After completing the study of the eight petitions, Mr. Jackson shares other prayer guidelines that can be used to add focus to daily prayers. Although I might not use the technique shared in this book for long stretches, I will implement it for a time to remind me of these petitions and the correct focus: getting to know God more deeply, not seeking things from Him. I think I might also find it helpful to include this prayer in my daily prayer time.

I was raised in a liturgical church where we said The Lord’s Prayer every Sunday. Perhaps that became a bit routine but for me it always had power to it. I have been in more evangelical, fundamental churches for the past 33 years or so and realize that I miss the power of saying The Lord’s Prayer and a few other choice prayers that I have in my childhood confirmation gift book, In God's Presence. I have started keeping that book with me. Now I just need to open it more often – maybe daily!

I appreciate this study by Kevin Jackson and recommend it to those who may not be regularly familiar with The Lord’s Prayer and also to those who need to be reminded of the purpose and power in prayer by looking at the Lord’s own example.

This is my First Book of 2019 title.
Source: 2014 Kindle TBR. This qualifies for TBR and Alphabet Challenge.

MBS First Book Of The Year 2019: The Prayer of Jesus by Kevin Jackson

First Book Of The Year 2019. This is the sixth year First Book of the Year has been hosted by Shelia (Book Journey).

Over the prior five years I chose three books that fit with my Christian faith and I decided to stay with that goal this year. (One year was self-help and one was Vintage Sci Fi.)  I also chose a book from my TBR shelf (Kindle from 2014).

The Prayer of Jesus
by Kevin Jackson

The Bible contains over three hundred references to prayer, and yet, eighty-five percent of believers are dissatisfied with their prayer lives. In The Prayer of Jesus, pastor, teacher, and author Kevin Jackson bridges the gap between the responsibility of prayer and the dissatisfaction we experience in prayer. He explains and applies the simple model for prayer which Jesus taught His original disciples. If you want to have a better, more consistent prayer life, then The Prayer of Jesus is the book for you.

My photo for First Read:

MBS First Book of the Year 2018

I am glad that Sheila (at Book Journey) is hosting this for the fifth year. 
Hop over to her blog to see the many choices of First Books that bloggers have picked.

It has been my practice to pick a book relating to my faith beliefs. This is one I picked up at NetGalley a week or so ago and thought it would be good to start the year off.

What If God Wrote Your To-Do List?:
52 Ways to Make the Most of Every Day
by Jay Payleitner 

What is God Asking You "To-Do" Today?

When you talk to God about His plans for you, do you tend to focus on the far-off future? Big-picture thinking is great, but don't miss out on what the Lord has in store for you today.

These 52 easy tasks will help you embrace opportunities to grow closer to God, reach out to others, and take better care of yourself. This is a to-do list for your soul.

Read a Psalm, talk to a neighbor, or right a wrong. These are just a few examples of the simple activities that will enrich your everyday life.

God is calling you to make the most of each day and live life to the fullest!

(I realized I forgot to include my picture in my own blog post :-). Here it is:)

Book Review and Giveaway: All In: You Are One Decision Away From a Totally Different Life

This is an inspiring and challenging book to help reshape and refocus the path of followers of Christ.
All In: You Are One Decision Away From a Totally Different Life
by Mark Batterson

Paperback: 192 pages
Publisher: Zondervan; Reprint edition (January 20, 2015)
ISBN-10: 0310341825
Genre:Spiritual Growth, Spirituality
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

From the blurb:
The Gospel costs nothing. You can’t earn it or buy it. It can only be received as a free gift which is compliments of God’s grace. It doesn’t cost anything, but it demands everything. It demands that we go “all in,” putting all that we have into God’s hands. And that’s where we get stuck―in spiritual no man's land. We’re afraid that if we go all in that we might miss out on what this life has to offer. It’s not true.

The only thing you’ll miss out on is everything God has to offer. And the good news is this: if you don't hold out on God, God won't hold out on you. Readers will find Batterson’s writing filled with his customary vivid, contemporary illustrations as well as biblical characters like Shamgar and Elisha and Jonathan and . . . Judas.

No one has ever sacrificed anything for God. If you always get back more than you gave up, have you sacrificed anything at all? The eternal reward always outweighs the temporal sacrifice. At the end of the day, our greatest regret will be whatever we didn’t give back to God. What we didn’t push back across the table to Him. Eternity will reveal that holding out is losing out.

The message of All In is simple: if Jesus is not Lord of all then Jesus is not Lord at all. It’s all or nothing. It’s now or never. Kneeling at the foot of cross of Christ and surrendering to His Lordship is a radical act of dethroning yourself and enthroning Christ as King. It’s also an act of disowning yourself. Nothing belongs to you. Not even you.

Batterson writes, “For many years, I thought I was following Jesus. I wasn’t. I had invited Jesus to follow me. I call it inverted Christianity. And it’s a subtle form of selfishness that masquerades as spirituality. That’s when I sold out and bought in. When did we start believing that the gospel is an insurance plan? It’s a daring plan. Jesus did not die just to keep us safe. He died to make us dangerous.”

Review:
I suspected this would be an inspiring book to start the year and I was right. The author challenges the followers of Christ to go “all in”; to take a leap of faith; to make a decision to surrender everything and trust in God’s will and direction. In the very first section the author raises the question “Who’s Following Who”? The author observes that many Christians make their plans and expect God to follow when we should be seeking God’s plan so we can follow Him.

I think this challenge would be awesome and wonderful if put into practice at a young age; certainly before we choose a course of study, a career path, a mate for life. Sadly, that doesn’t happen so much. We have all made mistakes, seeking our own selfish desires, rather than waiting for God to lead, open doors or deliver the right mate. As Batterson notes, we are taught a fierce individual independence which is inconsistent with surrendering to our God. Fortunately, Batterson reminds the reader at the end that “God wants to do amazing things” and He can do them through us if we allow Him to.

It is not simple though to always know God’s Will. I fear that some people might read this book and be discouraged or feel guilty, although I am sure that Mr. Batterson does not intend that reaction. Rather he hopes to elicit a conviction… as he says, a decision.

If all believers truly commit to the complete message of Mr. Batterson’s book then we all might become like Mother Teresa. Even the author doesn’t live such a live and I don’t see that as the calling for each of us. However I do agree that we need to commit our lives to God and trust Him in ALL things. To me it means living a life of integrity and doing the very best job where I have been planted and sharing His love and the good news of His salvation. This determination has grown stronger in my life as I have grown in my understanding of God’s Word. It has been strengthened by the personal times I have experienced God’s hand in my life -- protecting me, blessing me (and my family) and delivering us from troubles, financially, physically and emotionally.

From beginning to end I made notes in this book; I underlined and highlighted. It is a book that I will look at often to remind me of where I need to be; who I need to trust; who is in control. I know that I have failed to respond to God’s nudging at times and I think the challenge and encouragement from this book will help me to focus and respond more readily.

Some people reading this book might make a major change in their lives. Others, myself included, see in it a recognition that we can do better in our daily lives. It is not always about doing a big thing, but it is always about doing even small things well and for the right reason – all to the glory of God. All of the ladies in book club agreed that this book motivates us to think differently and change, even if in small ways.

This was our Ladies Book Club choice to start the year and my pick for First Book. When I started reading I knew I could not just speed through it like I do with fiction. 
This qualifies for my TBR challenge and “A” in Alphabet Challenge.

I always try to buy an extra copy of my Ladies' Book Club books so I'll have one for giveaway. This time I had given all of the books out but one person gave it back after reading so I have a gently read copy for giveaway plus I will add an eBook copy for international giveaway!

GIVEAWAY:

One (gently read) PRINT COPY - US Only

Kindle ebook - International Only

ENTRY FORM HERE

(Don't forget to fill in the form for entry!)

For 3 Extra Bonus entries

(a) comment on the review, OR

(b) Visit the Author's website and tell me something you learned or like there.

* This contest is open to US for Print Copy; all others for Kindle eBook.
* This contest will close 5 PM (Central) February 25, 2017. Winner will be announced in the Sunday Post on 2/26/17.
Winners are asked to respond on the winners form linked in the announcement or by email.

MBS First Book of the Year 2017

Welcome to 2017!

And once again we begin a new year of reading!

 Hosted by Sheila at Book Journey.

(I'll update the link on Sunday after church.)
Pop over to see pictures of many of our fellow bloggers 

and see what each person is reading as their First book of 2017! 

This year my choice for the first book was fairly straight forward. I actually made the selection about four months ago as I was selecting books at Christianbook.com for my Ladies' Book Club.  I tend to order in bulk about twice a year, selecting titles at good prices (usually $5.00 or less).
This book was recommended by our Sunday School teacher over the past year and I have set it as the first book for our book club group this year and my first book of 2017.

I have chosen All In: You Are One Decision Away From a Totally Different Life by Mark Batterson

From the blurb:

The message of All In is simple: if Jesus is not Lord of all then Jesus is not Lord at all. It’s all or nothing. It’s now or never. Kneeling at the foot of cross of Christ and surrendering to His Lordship is a radical act of dethroning yourself and enthroning Christ as King. It’s also an act of disowning yourself. Nothing belongs to you. Not even you.

(I remembered at the last minute on Friday to have my daughter take a picture.)

I am looking forward to seeing the titles others have chosen for their First Book of The Year 2017.
Please share with me what book YOU plan to read first for the new year!

Audible Book Reviews: Three X Minus One #VintageSciFi Stories

These are wonderful short stories of imagination and irony!

(Applicable to all three stories.)
Publisher's Summary
X Minus One premiered in April 1955 on NBC and ran until January 1958. Like its predecessor series, Dimension X, X Minus One featured stories by the greatest names in modern science fiction: Ray Bradbury, Robert Heinlein, Clifford Simak, Robert Bloch, and many more.
Public Domain (P)2012 BN Publishing

“From the far horizons of the unknown come transcribed tales of new dimensions in time and space. These are stories of the future. Adventures in which you’ll live in a million could be years in a thousand maybe worlds.”


X Minus One: Cold Equations (August 25, 1955)
Written by: Tom Godwin, George Lefferts - adaptation
Narrated by: Fred Collins
Length: 23 mins
Radio/TV Program
Release Date:05-22-15
Publisher: BN Publishing

My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Review:
Barton is a pilot of an EDS, Emergency Dispatch Ship. These are specialized rescue units used to make the emergency trips when and where no one else can. Barton has been assigned to deliver life-saving serum to a work force of 16 men who have already become ill. Time is of the essence and the trip is planned with precise detail to make the mission successful.

As his ship settles into its journey Barton notices an unexpected heat signature. He discovers a stow-away who turns out to be the lovely wife of one of the men on the planet. The couple have been apart for a number of years and she snuck on board to make a surprise visit. How can Barton handle this when the trip doesn’t factor in another person?

This is a wonderfully engaging and ironic, if sad, short story. I saw the dilemma and appreciated Barton’s compassion. The solutions are limited. I held my breath a bit as I waited to see what would happen.


X Minus One: Protective Mimicry (October 3, 1956)
Written by: Algis Budrys, Ernest Kinoy - adaptation
Narrated by: Fred Collins
Length: 29 mins
Radio/TV Program
Release Date:05-27-15
Publisher: BN Publishing

My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Review:
One Protective Mimicry finds us with Bamhoser, a special agent in "United Galactic Federation Department of Treasury, Investigation Division, Currency Section". Bamhoser has to track down a counterfeiter who is believed to have created a matter duplicator. His investigation takes him deep into the jungles of a humid, alien world where primitive natives live without sophisticated machinery. The counterfeiter captures Bamhoser and, in his arrogance, the thief explains his methods. When Bamhoser’s companions arrive and a battle breaks out, an unexpected event wins the day for the good guys.

Again the story is quick and I had to laugh at the ironic ending. There is some fun, 50’s appropriate views of women and repartee among the characters. The descriptions are well done, putting the reader in the stifling jungle, including a character blood-sucking bug.

X Minus One: Target One (December 26, 1957)
Written by: Frederik Pohl, George Lefferts - adaptation
Narrated by: Fred Collins
Length: 20 mins
Radio/TV Program
Release Date: 05-28-15
Publisher: BN Publishing

My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Review:
This story takes place in a future world where the humans have been all but extinguished with the devastation and destruction caused by atomic war in 1960. The current society, even thirty years later, is suffering from the fall out, with birth deformities and mutations. The world council president believes that drastic steps must be taken to save humanity. Secretly a time machine has been developed and a plan is put into place to send a scientist who understands the problem back to assassinate the original source of the problem.

The question is: can eliminating one man really stop scientific progress and prevent the knowledge and development the future leaders most fear? When Dr. Maron returns to his own time, ninety years in ahead, what world will await him?

There is always a twist when it comes to time travel and this is no exception. Time travel to assassin someone in the past never quite comes out as expected. After all - how do you kill an idea? Once again, the quick story has an ironic end.

(Image and Plot Archives found at this site.)

I love how each of these stories are engaging, quick and ironic. The other thing I noted is that I can identify themes in these stories in contemporary stories I have read over the past year or so. It makes me wonder: how much of what we read now draws upon the authors of the past?

Audio Notes: These are presented as NBC broadcasts with some audio effects. I could imagine sitting by a radio in the 1950s to listen to these wonderful episodes. This is great entertainment for under $1.00 per selection!

I selected these three short audios for Vintage Sci Fi reading. They also begin my 2016 Audiobook Challenge and X on the Alphabet Soup Challenge! This is also my 2016 First Book of the Year

MBS First Book Of The Year 2016

Welcome to 2016!

And so we begin a new year of reading!

 Hosted by Sheila at Book Journey.

Pop over to see pictures of many of our fellow bloggers 

and see what each person is reading as their First book of 2016! 

I had a very hard time deciding what to read for my First Book of 2016. Soooo many choices!
I have a Ladie's Book Club title that had to be ready for 1/2.
I have 12 titles lined up on NetGalley already for 2016.
I have several challenges I wish to participate in and I have multiple audio titles to enjoy, including one that was gifted by the author and one that was received through Audiobook Jukebox.

I looked at several self-help/fiction type of books and actually purchased one at Audible.
At the beginning of the week I had narrowed my selection to the seven books below. All but The Etymoligicon I already own in one form or another and have on my TBR reading list for 2016:

1. Cinder (The Lunar Chronicles Book 1) by Marissa Meyer (ebook TBR)
2. Nation by Terry Pratchett (Audible TBR)
3. The Etymologicon: A Circular Stroll Through the Hidden Connections of the English Language by Mark Forsyth
4. Cruel Beauty by Rosamund Hodge (Audio SYNC TBR)
5. Time Heist: Firstborn Saga Volume 1 by Anthony Vicino (Audible for review)
6. Buster: The Military Dog Who Saved a Thousand Lives by RAF Police Flight Sergeant Will Barrow, Isabel George (Audio for review)
7. Old Man’s War by Jack Scalzi (Audible TBR)

However, as I contemplated starting the year while buying my last titles at Audible, my mind changed.

I am planning to participate in the Vintage SciFi Not-a-Challenge event hosted by Andrea at Little Red Reviewer.

In line with that I will also use January to participate in the 

2016 Sic Fi Experience hosted by Carl at Stainless Steel Droppings.

With those January events in mind, I tossed the idea of doing something in the self-help/fiction mode and went on a hunt for Vintage Sci Fi titles to start the year with some sci fi fun. :-)

Here is what I picked up at Audible on 12/31/15 (two December credits plus $2.07.):

1. To Live Forever by Jack Vance
2. X Minus One: Protective Mimicry (October 3, 1956) by Algis Budrys, Ernest Kinoy - adaptation
3. The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing by Marie Kondo
4. X Minus One: Cold Equations (August 25, 1955) by Tom Godwin, George Lefferts - adaptation
5. X Minus One: Target One (December 26, 1957) by Frederik Pohl, George Lefferts - adaptation

The three X Minus One titles are vintage sci fi radio broadcast offerings under 30 minutes each so I plan to listen to all three on 1/1/2016 to get a feel for those authors who will be new to me.
Where I go after that...?? Probably the review audio: Time Heist. Then either the Jack Vance title or Old Man's War.

Here is my photo offering for FIRST BOOK OF THE YEAR 2016.
(I couldn't get a good pic of me, my Sansa Clip mp3, and the audio image on tablet so I combined them.)

I am looking forward to seeing the titles others have chosen for their First Book of The Year 2016.

Book Review: Shopping for Time: How to Do It All and NOT Be Overwhelmed by Carolyn Mahaney, Nicole Mahaney Whitacre, Kristin Chesemore, Janelle Bradshaw

This is a wonderful time management book focusing on Biblical principles.
Shopping for Time: How to Do It All and NOT Be Overwhelmed
Carolyn Mahaney, Nicole Mahaney Whitacre, Kristin Chesemore, Janelle Bradshaw

• File Size: 277 KB
• Print Length: 99 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1581349130
• Publisher: Crossway Books (June 26, 2007)
• ASIN: B00283PQDS

Genre: Nonfiction
My Rating: 5.0 content but 4.5 due to editing errors.

Book Description
Publication Date: June 26, 2007
Overwhelmed. Miserable. Exhausted. These are often the words that women use to describe their high-demand lifestyles. How are women who are always on the go expected to cope with the demands of work, family, and ministry?
Carolyn Mahaney and her three daughters, Nicole Whitacre, Kristin Chesemore, and Janelle Bradshaw, recognize the needs of Christian women today. Shopping for Time offers the solution to women who truly desire to glorify God with every use of their time.
These authors offer five tips to help ladies do it all without becoming overwhelmed: rise early, sit down, sit longer (occasionally), choose friends wisely, and take fifteen minutes. By weaving biblical principles of God's Word into these keys, these authors give women practical advice on how to fulfill-and excel in-their daily responsibilities.

Review:
This is a lovely time management guide based on biblical principles. It is direct and on point while being very quick and easy to read. The authors relate to personal, everyday life experiences. Most people can relate to planning a shopping trip, as when you go to the market or outlet mall. Even those, like me, who do not shop a lot, usually make a list or have a purpose when heading to the store. This book compares our purposeful intent in shopping to ‘shopping’ for time with the intent of doing what God wants to do in our lives.

The focus of the book is to PLAN to make time for God and the most important priorities in our lives: family, relationships and service. The arguments are extrapolated from Ephesians 5:15-16 which states: “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. The goal is to “assist you to bring glory to the Savior through every season” of your life. The authors list and discuss five tips to manage our time to be fruitful in our service to God.

Not all of the tips or tools suggested are new but, for me, they are given with new insight and with the best purpose of all. The underlying message confirmed to me is the biblical foundation of Matthew 6:33: "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." (NIV)  I don’t feel I can describe too much detail without giving spoilers. However, consider that I marked 45 notes out of 99 pages! Also I have instituted a new method to add to my Bible study with two questions the authors suggest.

The only reason I did not rate this book as 5.0 is due to the errors in the kindle version.  There were repeats in phrases and the letter “u” came out as “v” throughout. It is still easily read but the errors are distracting and off putting. I would encourage the authors and publisher to go back and clean up the text.

I really enjoyed the tips and the great nuggets in this little gem. It was a perfect book for me as the first book of 2015. I highly recommend this to anyone who wants to spend more time serving God.

This is the book I chose for my First Book 2015.
It is from my 2009 TBR Kindle list and qualifies for: 2015 Alphabet Soup Reading Challenge; Full House Reading Challenge 2015; The 2014-15 Winter COYER challenge; The Official 2015 TBR Pile Challenge, The TBR Double Dog Dare

First Book of the Year 2015

This Event is hosted by our lovely friend Sheila at Book Journey.  She will be posting a montage of all those participating showing our picture with our First Book of 2015.  Check it out and see what books everyone is starting the new year with!

This is the book I chose for my First read in 2015.
It is from my 2009 TBR Kindle list and
I think I will like it plus I am reading it as part of the 2014-15 Winter COYER challenge.

Shopping for Time: How to Do It All and NOT Be Overwhelmed
Carolyn Mahaney (Author), Nicole Mahaney Whitacre (Author), Kristin Chesemore (Author), Janelle Bradshaw
Book Description
Publication Date: June 26, 2007
Overwhelmed. Miserable. Exhausted. These are often the words that women use to describe their high-demand lifestyles. How are women who are always on the go expected to cope with the demands of work, family, and ministry?
Carolyn Mahaney and her three daughters, Nicole Whitacre, Kristin Chesemore, and Janelle Bradshaw, recognize the needs of Christian women today. Shopping for Time offers the solution to women who truly desire to glorify God with every use of their time.
These authors offer five tips to help ladies do it all without becoming overwhelmed: rise early, sit down, sit longer (occasionally), choose friends wisely, and take fifteen minutes. By weaving biblical principles of God's Word into these keys, these authors give women practical advice on how to fulfill-and excel in-their daily responsibilities.

Audible Review / Print Giveaway: The Harbinger: The Ancient Mystery that Holds the Secret to America's Future by Jonathan Cahn

This is a fascinatingly informative book, even though alarming.

The Harbinger: The Ancient Mystery that Holds the Secret to America's Future
by Jonathan Cahn
Narrated by Jonathan Cahn

    LENGTH    7 hrs and 42 mins
    RELEASE DATE    06-13-12
    PUBLISHER    Frontline

Genre: Christian Fiction
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0

(See Study Guide information below review.)

Publisher's Summary
Is it possible that there exists an ancient mystery that holds the secret of America's future? That this mystery lies behind everything from 9/11 to the collapse of the global economy? That ancient harbingers of judgment are now manifesting in America? That God is sending America a prophetic message of what is yet to come? Before its end as a nation, there appeared in ancient Israel nine specific warnings and omens of national destruction - these same Nine Harbingers are now manifesting in America with profound ramifications for America’s future and end-time prophecy.

Hidden in an ancient biblical prophecy from Isaiah, the mysteries revealed in The Harbinger are so precise that they foretell recent American events down to the exact days: the 3,000-year-old mystery that revealed the exact date of the stock market collapse of 2008… the ancient prophecy that was proclaimed from the floor of the US Senate and then came true…and more. The revelations are so specific that even the most hardened skeptic will find it hard to put down. Though it sounds like the plot of a Hollywood thriller - IT’S REAL.

The prophetic mysteries are factual but revealed through a riveting narrative the reader will find hard to put down. The Harbinger opens with the appearance of a man burdened with a message he has received from a mysterious figure called The Prophet. The Prophet has given him nine seals, each containing a message about America's future. As he tells of his encounters with the Prophet, from a skyscraper in New York City to a rural mountaintop to Capitol Hill to Ground Zero, the mystery behind each seal is revealed. As the story unfolds, each revelation becomes another piece in a larger and larger puzzle, the ramifications of which are, even now, altering the course of America and the world.
©2012 Jonathan Cahn (P)2012 Charisma House

Review:
The entire premise of the book is to show a parallel in the blessings and punishments prophesied in the Bible that effected ancient Israel and can be seen now as effecting America, once considered a Christian nation. The Harbinger notes that Israel was a nation of people chosen by God and blessed for their commitment to Him. Even though they were disobedient many times, God was slow to punish. He sent prophets with warnings but the leaders continued to turn away. Finally God exiled the people from their own land, just as He said He would, to punish them for abandoning His ways.

Mr. Cahn sets forth in The Harbinger that America’s foundation was established on Christian beliefs. The book shares a speech from George Washington giving thanks to God at the founding of our nation. The speech was presented at the first capitol of the nation, New York City... at ground zero. America has been a blessed country, becoming a super power within 200 years. But over the past fifty years we have allowed God to be removed from our society foundations. The Supreme Court declared school-sponsored Bible reading and recitation of the Lord's Prayer unconstitutional in 1963. Over the past decades protests have caused the ten commandments and nativity scenes to be removed from public properties. In 2013 evangelical Christians were listed on terrorist “watch lists” as potential government enemies.

The Harbinger sets forth a reasoned argument showing how the events of September 11, 2001 were a warning to America to turn back to God. The book outlines shocking coincidences where our government leaders reacted in the same way that Israel leaders did saying  "The bricks have fallen down, but we will rebuild...." (Isaiah 9:10.) Unknowingly several important leaders used the exact Biblical phrase that Cahn argues was not intended as a phrase of comfort but was actually a statement of defiance as the leaders insisted they, not God, would come back stronger. Cahn identifies in this story nine harbingers that are connected to the 9/11 attack and a second warning, as was true for the nation of Israel. Seven years after the terrorist attacks there was a financial crisis in 2008 that signifies another warning and continues the remarkable parallels protrayed by the author.

The nine harbingers or warnings are told in the form of riddles given to Nouriel by a stranger and shared through a narrative story told by Nouriel to a publisher friend. The tale is presented as a fiction but it is documented with facts and details.  Although not all readers will embrace the book from a Christian viewpoint, hopefully it will make readers think hard on the points presented and what some might scoff at as being "mere coincidence." I recommend to every single American who cares about the direction our government is taking our country that they read one or a combination of these books in print, audio, or the companion study guide.

Our ladies book club all agreed that they could not put the book down when they started it. We often read mysteries or romance or light fluff for fun but all agreed that this was one of the best books we have read together. We discussed what we could do to change the course of America in light of the warnings portrayed in the book. We can certainly pray but we agreed that, as noted in the book, we each have a duty to be a 'watchman on the wall’ - to give warning to others. We need to tell others that they should beware and prepare for more difficult times to come. It is ominous as we do not expect our government to change in the current state of affairs. But we have the assurance that our God is in control. He will be with those that call upon Him even though there may be trials ahead. We can be a witness of hope by sharing the message of God’s love and redemption.

Audio Notes: The audiobook is narrated by the author. He did a good, if not great, job of narrating. He clearly knew how to give proper emphasis and tone as he had intended when writing the book. The audio was quicker for me to read but I was glad to have the Study Guide to refer to.

I selected this book to be read and discussed by my local Ladies's Book Club as our first book for 2014.

 
I already had the book in print, on Kindle and on Audible, but I purchased The Harbinger Companion with Study Guide in print to help me lead the book club discussion.

I listened to the book on audio which I really enjoyed. I was also able to get my husband to listen and he read along in the print book. My husband is not a reader but he sat in front of the fireplace listening for two afternoons to finish the book. I followed the audio with the Study Guide which is a wonderful asset with pictures and charts to support the text.

The Harbinger Companion With Study Guide: Decode the Mysteries and Respond to the Call that Can Change America's Future-and Yours by Jonathan Cahn
(The link provided for the Study Guide includes both books for a price that is better than if purchased separately.)

ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the gently used print copy of The Harbinger (not the study guide which my husband and I are keeping).

ENTRY FORM HERE

Don't forget to fill in the form for entry! 

I have noticed a few commenters who forgot to enter through the Form.  

For 3 Extra Bonus entries  comment on the review 

OR tell me why you think you would like to read this book.

* This contest is open to U.S. address Only.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on January 24, 2014.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after January 24, 2014.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

First book of the year 2014 Post - The Harbinger: The Ancient Mystery that Holds the Secret to America's Future

First Book of the Year 2014

This link up is offered by Sheila at Book Journey.

I had my DH take a picture of me with the two books and my MP4 player.
(I hadn't prepared for this so I am dressed in a favorite, warm, 'sit at home' scruff shirt
and I didn't even have make-up on. At least my hair is normal and neat.)

I was very glad to plan this book, The Harbinger, as my first read for 2014.
It is quite amazing and alarming!
I selected this for the first book in the new year for Ladies's Book Club.
The ladies are excited about the discussion meeting this Saturday.
I will be posting my review, with a giveaway, on either Saturday or Sunday.

The Harbinger: The Ancient Mystery that Holds the Secret to America's Future
by Jonathan Cahn
Narrated by Jonathan Cahn


Publisher's Summary
Is it possible that there exists an ancient mystery that holds the secret of America's future? That this mystery lies behind everything from 9/11 to the collapse of the global economy? That ancient harbingers of judgment are now manifesting in America? That God is sending America a prophetic message of what is yet to come? Before its end as a nation, there appeared in ancient Israel nine specific warnings and omens of national destruction - these same Nine Harbingers are now manifesting in America with profound ramifications for America’s future and end-time prophecy.

Hidden in an ancient biblical prophecy from Isaiah, the mysteries revealed in The Harbinger are so precise that they foretell recent American events down to the exact days: the 3,000-year-old mystery that revealed the exact date of the stock market collapse of 2008… the ancient prophecy that was proclaimed from the floor of the US Senate and then came true…and more. The revelations are so specific that even the most hardened skeptic will find it hard to put down. Though it sounds like the plot of a Hollywood thriller - IT’S REAL.

The prophetic mysteries are factual but revealed through a riveting narrative the reader will find hard to put down. The Harbinger opens with the appearance of a man burdened with a message he has received from a mysterious figure called The Prophet. The Prophet has given him nine seals, each containing a message about America's future. As he tells of his encounters with the Prophet, from a skyscraper in New York City to a rural mountaintop to Capitol Hill to Ground Zero, the mystery behind each seal is revealed. As the story unfolds, each revelation becomes another piece in a larger and larger puzzle, the ramifications of which are, even now, altering the course of America and the world.

©2012 Jonathan Cahn (P)2012 Charisma House

I am listening on MP4 while referring to the texts.

The Harbinger
(UNABRIDGED)

Author: Jonathan Cahn

and

 
I purchased The Harbinger for my book club ladies as Christmas gifts. We will be reading this for meeting and review in January.
I already had the book on Kindle but I purchased the study guide in print to help me lead the discussion.

The Harbinger Companion With Study Guide: Decode the Mysteries and Respond to the Call that Can Change America's Future-and Yours
by Jonathan Cahn

Please share what is your first book for 2014 and I think there is still time to link up at Book Journey.
Happy Reading in 2014!