Book Review: Two Tickets to the Christmas Ball: A Novella by Donita K. Paul

Treat yourself to this delightful, magical read!

Two Tickets to the Christmas Ball: A Novella
by Donita K. Paul

• File Size: 432 KB
• Print Length: 242 pages
• Publisher: WaterBrook Press (October 5, 2010)
• Sold by: Random House LLC
• ASIN: B003EI2EIQ

Genre: Romance, Fantasy, Inspirational
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Can mysterious matchmaking booksellers bring two lonely hearts together in time for Christmas?
In a sleepy, snow-covered city, Cora Crowder is busy preparing for the holiday season. Searching for a perfect gift, a fortuitous trip to Warner, Werner, and Wizbotterdad’s (a most unusual bookshop) leads to an unexpected encounter with co-worker Simon Derrick. And the surprise discovery of a ticket for a truly one-of-a-kind Christmas Ball.
Every year, the matchmaking booksellers of the Sage Street bookshop host an enchanting, old-fashioned Christmas Ball for the romantic matches they’ve decided to bring together.
This year, will Simon and Cora discover a perfect chemistry in their opposite personalities and shared faith? Or will the matchmakers’ best laid plans end up ruining everything this holiday?

Review:
Cora has accepted her lone life style having successfully removed herself from her negative family environment. She is preparing for Christmas with careful shopping, including a gift for the person whose name she selected at her work department. Her hunt for the right gifts has her stumbling upon a hidden shopping area on Sage Street and an unusual bookshop called Warner, Werner, and Wizbotterdad’s. While making her selections she is surprised when her boss’ boss, Simon Derrick, appears in the store. Cora arrives home and discovers a ticket to a Wizard’s Christmas Ball in her bag and she isn’t sure what to make of it.

All the young women at work show some interest in Simon, their handsome co-worker, but he is totally oblivious to the women in the office. Simon is surprised to see Cora at an obscure bookstore, but he is pleased when she helps with a gift recommendation. Simon arrives home to his warm, loving family. He is prepared to read a story to his specially challenged sister, Sandy. When he discovers a ticket to a Wizard’s Christmas Ball, Sandy declares her desire to go with him.

Cora and Simon keep bumping into each other and Cora agrees to give her ticket so Simon can take Sandy to the ball. The mysterious matchmakers at the bookstore and the antique costume store are set on making sure that Simon and Cora go to the old fashioned ball but they didn’t realize they would have to work so hard to get this off beat pair together.

We found this quickly moving story absolutely charming. Cora is no social butterfly and Simon is no playboy – far from it. They are loners who are good people who deserve to find loves of their own. Simon’s family members, especially Sandy, are lovely characters who add to the story with their warm personalities. The bookstore and costume dress crew are fun old men and ladies who have special skills at matchmaking. Their work with this pair will face a few challenges including Cora’s sister who makes an unexpected and unwelcome visit.

Although some might think it strange to include magical elements in a Christian story the author presents them as part of God’s ‘fantastical’ creation. It didn't bother me at all and the faith messages are sweet and simply shared.

All of the ladies in book club agreed that this was a delightful read. We are interested in trying other works by Ms. Paul. I recommend this to readers who enjoy light, fun romance with a touch of Godly magic.

This title was our Ladies Book Club in December. I had picked up inexpensive, irregular print copies for my friends and I was lucky to find the ebook on sale!

(If I can get a copy back from one of my ladies, I'll add a giveaway. Unfortunately the discounted prices are all gone.)

Book Review and Giveaway: Raven Saint by MaryLu Tyndall

In this story a young Christian woman and the bitter pirate who kidnaps her fall in love.
The Raven Saint: (Charles Towne Belles)
by MaryLu Tyndall

• Series: Charles Towne Belles (Book 3)
• Paperback: 352 pages
• Publisher: Barbour Publishing Inc.; Reprint edition (January 1, 2014)
• ISBN-10: 1624167241

Genre: Christian Romance, Inspirational
My Rating: 3.5* of 5.0  *but note all the 5*s at Amazon

Join bestselling author MaryLu Tyndall for a seafaring historical full of romance, intrigue, action, and adventure. Grace Westcott has piously served God her whole life. Captain Rafe Dubois cannot pass up the opportunity to earn more gold toward the hospital he’s building for the poor by kidnapping Admiral Westcott’s youngest daughter. But when the missionary and the mercenary meet, it’s full-sail-ahead into tumultuous waters! Find out what happens when a bitter mercenary who’s sworn off God falls in love with a pious woman determined to change him.
Charles Towne Belles Series:
Book 1 - The Red Siren
Book 2 - The Blue Enchantress

Review:
Grace is the youngest daughter of an Admiral. She is not yet twenty but has decided to dedicate her life to serving God. She is taking baskets to the less fortunate when she is kidnapped by pirates.

Captain Rafe Dubois has agreed to deliver the Admiral’s daughter in exchange for gold to build the hospital he wants to help those less fortunate. Rafe is the son of a nobleman but chose his rebellious life-style after his father’s wealth wooed away Claire, the woman he fell in love with. He has no trust in women, much less God.

Grace is frightened but also finds strength through her faith. She determines that she will face off with the Godless Capitaine and show him God’s love. Grace’s kind manner help her to make a few friends among the crew, most particularly the Captain’s cat, Spyglass, and a disillusioned former Jesuit priest, Father Alers. Others have little kindness for her and some have their own plans to use her in plans of betrayal.

I liked Grace for the most part and particularly liked her strong faith and that she showed kindness in response to evil. She learns lessons about character and pride through her trials.  Rafe is a mixed character as he has a soft-heart but his heart is full of bitterness and must show brashness and ruthlessness to control his men. The plot includes Rafe’s father, Claire and more betrayal. The characters are well developed and the plot has action, intrigue and bantering dialogue. The writing is easy to read but I just never warmed to the story.

I started this book the summer of 2014 and finally finished it late summer of 2015. I enjoyed the last 60 or so pages so maybe I just wasn’t in the mood when I started it. However – I have decided I really don’t care for kidnapping pirate themed plots. This is at least the second pirate story I couldn’t get into. There are very positive reviews at Amazon so I think it was just me and my reading tastes.

This was from my TBR shelf as I received this title as a win in October 2010 from Desertrose.

One (gently read) PRINT COPY GIVEAWAY

US Only

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

(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 only for Print Copy.
* This contest will close 5 PM (Central) December 20, 2015.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after December 20, 2015.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond on the winners form linked in the announcement or by email.

Book Review and Giveaway: Katt's in the Cradle: A Secrets from Lulu's Cafe Novel by Ginger Kolbaba, Christy Scannel

This tells the story of four pastor wives (PWs) and the challenges they face.

Katt's in the Cradle: A Secrets from Lulu's Cafe Novel
by Ginger Kolbaba, Christy Scannell

Series: Secrets from Lulu's Cafe
Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Howard Books; Original edition (February 3, 2009)
ISBN-10: 1416543899
Genre: Inspirational Fiction, Women's Friendship
My Rating: 3.5 of 5.0

When you're in the trenches, sometimes you're up to your neck in mud. That's the not-so-glamorous life of a pastor's wife.

Felicia's family is...complicated. That's putting it nicely. Now they're flying in from LA -- all at once -- to stay with her...just when her brother-in-law, Javier, and Mama aren't even speaking to each other. And the whole church will be there to witness the feud.

Mimi has a lot on her mind with her four energetic kids -- especially Milo the screamer, with his Pavarotti voice. Then her live-in alcoholic dad starts to mow their lawn at midnight.

Lisa has her hands full with loudmouth Tom Graves and the other troublemakers at Red River Assembly. Then vicious rumors start to fly about the Barton family...and the attacks and threats get increasingly personal.

Jennifer is pushing her adopted daughter, Carys, in a stroller, when she notices a black town car -- the same car she's seen several times over the past week. Could someone be following her?

The PWs plunge into an unnerving mystery...and discover what "family" really means.

Review:
This book follows four PWs, pastor’s wives, and their family, and church, struggles.
Mimi has a houseful of kids, including a young toddler and a child with a loud mouth. However, her biggest challenge is her alcoholic father who lives with them. He refuses to honor the AA commitments and is rebellious about being ‘worthless”. Jennifer has an adopted biracial child and is concerned that someone is following her. She is also struggling to cope with her chemically imbalanced mother who goes off the medications and goes on spending binges that she can’t afford.

Felecia has a toddler but is struggling with whether to have a second child. She comes from a strong Hispanic family who all decide to come visit even though Mother isn’t speaking to one of the sons-in-law. Lisa is a mostly spiritually calm personality with a fairly calm home life to the extent a home can be calm with a teenage daughter and young teen son. Lisa’s crisis is a rebellious church member who is challenging the Pastor’s call to repentance and dividing the church through bullying and unfounded rumor against Lisa’s family.

Over the past couple of years (and first two books) these four have formed a close knit group. They support each other by meeting for lunch every other week at LuLu’s Café located in a town 40 miles away. There they encourage their waitress, Gracie, to find a relationship with God not so much by preaching to her but by living their lives as a testimony.

A new PW has appeared in town, married to the recently widowed Pastor Katt. The other PWs want to make the larger group of PWs more real and supportive. But can they live this desire first by welcoming and opening up to the new Ally Katt?

This book has a mess of dysfunctional families. Many issues that could face a pastor’s wife face these ladies. The story brought compassion from our ladies towards our Pastor’s wife who is one of our readers. She said she felt that she had faced all of the issues at one time or another. The story has some lightness to it even though it deals with difficult situations.

The ending wraps this time period for the women with appropriate Christian lessons of forgiveness, caring, faithfulness, trust and hope. None of us were overwhelmed with the book and we sure weren’t going to pay $14. 99 for the Kindle edition. This might be interesting to readers who don’t mind the mess of family dysfunction and drama presented with humor and Christian lessons.

I purchased irregular print copies at low price for Ladies Book Club October reading which we discussed November 7.

TWO (gently read) PRINT COPY GIVEAWAY

US Only

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

(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 only for Print Copy.
* This contest will close 5 PM (Central) November 22, 2015.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after November 22, 2015.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond on the winners form linked in the announcement or by email.

Book Review and Tour Giveaway: Hope Rising (Of Love and War) by Stacy Henrie

This is a beautiful, warm romance that provides hope in a war setting and a faith-based message for any setting.
Hope Rising (Of Love and War)
by Stacy Henrie

• File Size: 605 KB
• Print Length: 353 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 145559881X
• Publisher: Forever (December 16, 2014)
• Sold by: Hachette Book Group
• ASIN: B00JJ320YS
• Genre: Historical Romance, Christian, Inspirational

My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: December 16, 2014
FROM A GREAT WAR, SPRINGS A GREAT LOVE
In France at the height of World War I, American nurse Evelyn Gray is no stranger to suffering. She's helped save the life of many a soldier, but when she learns her betrothed has been killed, her own heart may be broken beyond repair. Summoning all her strength, Evelyn is determined to carry on-not just for herself and her country, but for her unborn child.

Corporal Joel Campbell dreams of the day the war is over and he can return home and start a family. When a brutal battle injury puts that hope in jeopardy, Joel is lost to despair . . . until he meets Evelyn. Beautiful, compassionate, and in need of help, she makes an unconventional proposal that could save their lives-or ruin them irrevocably. Now, amidst the terror and turmoil of the Western Front, these two lost souls will have to put their faith in love to find the miracle they've been looking for.

Review:
Evelyn broke nursing rules by getting involved with Ralph, a soldier on leave. Ralph returned to the front lines before Evelyn discovered she was pregnant. Evelyn continues her dedicated work in the French hospital while dealing with sickness, fatigue and waiting for the time when Ralph will fullfill his promise to do the right thing and marry her.

Corporal Joel Campbell and his best friend, Ralph, are injured on the frontline. Ralph doesn’t survive but his last words are calling Evelyn’s name. Joel opens his eyes in the hospital to meet Evelyn.

Evelyn is in more turmoil having lost the man she loved and hoped to marry. She is afraid her condition will be discovered and she will be sent home. She has no idea how to explain her situation to her grandparents.

Joel guesses her circumstances after a few encounters. Evelyn learns that Joel’s injuries may leave him alone instead of having a full family and farm like he was raised with had dreamed of. As Joel and Evelyn begin to develop a friendship she thinks that perhaps they can help each other. Unfortunately Joel initially takes umbrage at her proposal. Then he decides they should take time to get to get to know each other better and then make a decision.

Evelyn and Joel help a local young boy, Louis, who does chores for an extra meal. Evelyn is teaching Louis and his friends to read while Joel shares his love of bird watching with Louis. There are other enjoyable characters like the surgeon Evelyn works with and her roommate.

This story shows a view of World War I that is realistic and provides a slice of hope in a setting of tragedy and loss. The characters are warm and the romance is sweat and engaging. The writing flows well and even the grimness of war is handled with a gentle tone. I loved the faith foundations that supported the characters and helped them to see that God's plans are not our plans but can provide something wonderful even if unexpected.

I totally enjoyed the read and look forward to reading the novella, A Christmas of Hope, which I will review next week. It is likely I will pick up the first book in this series, Hope at Dawn, too. I highly recommend this to those who enjoy a clean, historical romance with a sound faith message.

I received this from Forever, through NetGalley, for an honest review and part of blog tour.

About A CHRISTMAS HOPE:

Tis the season for second chances…

Having experienced the heartache of unrequited love, Maria Schmitt desperately seeks a new life. Landing a position as a clerk in a Sioux City bank is just what she needs to get started on her journey toward healing. But a dashing stranger soon puts her job-and her heart-in jeopardy. Saving lives was all Dale Emerson ever wanted to do . . . until a fateful day in France shattered his career as a surgeon. He lost everything that mattered, and the last thing he wants to do is resign himself to a life without medicine working at his uncle's bank. Then he meets Maria, a compassionate woman who can see past his scars to the man he once was-and the man he could be again. With Christmas right around the corner, these two wounded hearts may find that hope and a little holiday cheer are just the ticket to letting go of regrets-and embracing a future full of love and possibility.

About Stacy Henrie
Stacy Henrie has always had an avid appetite for history, fiction and chocolate. She earned her B.A. in public relations from Brigham Young University and worked in communications before turning her attentions to raising a family and writing inspirational historical romances. Wife of an entrepreneur husband and a stay-at-home mom to three, Stacy loves the chance to live out history through her fictional characters, while enjoying the modern conveniences of life in the 21st century. In addition to author, she is a reader, a road trip enthusiast and a novice interior decorator.

Stacy’s SM:

@StacyHenrie

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Stacy-Henrie-Author

http://www.stacyhenrie.com/ 

Buy links for HOPE RISING:

Barnes and Noble: http://bit.ly/1pnwQLn 

Books-A-Million: http://bit.ly/1GkP98a 

IndieBound: http://bit.ly/1E5Ee0Y 

Amazon: http://amzn.to/1xc8AOO 

Buy links for A CHRISTMAS HOPE:

Barnes and Noble: http://bit.ly/1yc6kCA 

Books-A-Million: http://bit.ly/1sl3ChF 

Kobo: http://bit.ly/1sl3E9b 

Google Play: http://bit.ly/1Bt9d5r 

iTunes: http://bit.ly/1wkC8bl 

Amazon: http://amzn.to/1z3l0Ij

Excerpt:

     Evelyn lowered her gaze to the root she’d tripped over rather than continue to stare at her gallant rescuer. “It’s mostly Louis and Pierre who’ve been interested in reading, but they’ve caught on well.” She slid a few more inches away from him, finagling her feet around the gnarled roots. Breathing was difficult with Joel so close.
     He shifted to lean his shoulder against the tree trunk. “Is something wrong?”
     She pressed her lips together and shook her head. “Are you angry at me? For coming over to the group, instead of staying away like we talked about?” Evelyn flicked a glance at those hazel eyes.
     “No, not at all.”
     Silence reigned for several heartbeats, then she felt his finger beneath her chin. He gently prodded her head upward until she had to look at him. Her stomach flip flopped as she peered fully into his handsome face. Light fuzz covered his chin and jaw. He needed another shave. A strange, irrational thought that she must be the one to do it filled her mind.
     “Are you afraid of something, Evelyn?”
     You.
     She kept the word sealed inside as her thoughts spiraled like a tornado. What if he didn’t reciprocate these growing feelings? What if he decided not to marry her next week? There’d been times over the last few days when she thought Joel was beginning to soften toward her, even like her. She’d notice a lingering look from him or a smile, but they would disappear as quickly as they came and his manner would return to its usual, kind aloofness. Perhaps she ought to be asking him a similar question. What was he afraid of?
     “I’m fine, really.” She swallowed hard. “Just a bit tired is all.”
     Instead of releasing her chin as she expected, Joel lowered his gaze to her mouth. The rush of sound in Evelyn’s ears grew as thunderous as a windstorm.
     Was he going to kiss her? Should she let him?
     She wanted him to kiss her, had dreamt of this moment She held her breath as Joel leaned forward. Closing her eyes, she waited for his lips to reach hers. Would his kiss be as glorious as she’d imagined? Or better? She felt his breath brush her chin, sending her stomach into another frenzy of flutters.
     The sudden blare of horns dropped like a bomb into the quiet of the trees, obliterating their shared moment. Evelyn opened her eyes and turned toward the hospital. “More wounded soldiers.”
     Joel straightened, robbing her of the warmth of his closeness. “Which means more surgeries.”
     His disappointed tone had her hopes soaring heavenward again. Did it mean he cared? “Yes, it does. Will you watch after Louis for me?”
     “I don’t profess to be as good a teacher as you, but I’ll try.”
     “Thank you.”
     She turned to go, but Joel caught her hand, stopping her retreat.
     “Evelyn?”
     “Yes?” She wished she didn’t sound so breathless.
     Wished she didn’t have to leave him.
     He released her hand to brush her cheek with his thumb, heating her skin with the tender touch. “Good luck.”

GIVEAWAY

Rafflecopter giveaway: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/26635ce2143/?

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Book Review: Every Valley: Advent with the Scriptures of Handel's Messiah

I am finding this to be a stirring and beautiful Advent study!
Every Valley: Advent with the Scriptures of Handel's Messiah
Handel (Author), Albert L. Blackwell (Foreword)

• File Size: 660 KB
• Print Length: 194 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 0664259987
• Publisher: Westminster John Knox Press (September 26, 2014)
• ASIN: B00NH0SZ52
• Genre: Inspirational
• My Rating 5.0 of 5.0
• 
  

Handel's Messiah is one of the most beloved musical works of the western world, playing an especially sentimental role in many people's Christmas traditions. The libretto of the work, taken directly from the King James text of fourteen books of the Bible, has turned many otherwise forgettable phrases into memorable, singable, cherished lines of Scripture.
This gift-worthy book will delight and inspire classical music fans and those for whom Messiah is a beloved Christmas tradition with essays exploring the theological, historical, and pastoral implications of the Scriptures that make up Handel's Messiah.
Forty reflections journey in order through the oratorio, taking the reader deeper into less-often studied texts like Malachi 3:3 and bringing new light to oft-recited passages like Luke 2:9-14. Each reflection offers the libretto from Messiah, the same passage in NRSV, and a brief commentary on the text, written by a respected scholar or pastor. Readers can peruse the book at leisure or examine one reflection per day throughout the Advent and Christmas seasons.

Review:
I was glad to accept the NetGalley invitation for Every Valley: Advent with the Scriptures of Handel's Messiah as I like to have an Advent study each year. I am reading this as a daily devotion. There are forty movements and meditations that provide daily reading from December 1 through the Twelfth day of Christmas (January 6 - the Feast of Epiphany). It is appropriate to run beyond Christmas since the work has three parts: Christ's Birth and its Foretelling, Christ's Passion and Resurrection and Christ's Eternal Reign.

Many of us are familiar with certain hymns from Handel's Messiah, most notably the Hallelujah Chorus. I have also heard and sung versions of “For Unto Us a Child is Born” without realizing it was part of Handel’s Messiah. This book is the first time I have studied the words and recognized their connection to the Biblical passages that inspired Handel.

I am enjoying finding the matching songs on the internet for the full experience of the music and the words. As the foreward notes, one of the things we recognize (sometimes without even realizing it) in Handel's powerful music is the "tonal painting". He captures the distress of the people as well as the darkness and then the glad tidings and ultimately the majesty of Christ's reign! I am utterly impressed with the remarkable depth of the study by Handel. My own Bible reading and Sunday School lessons this year have brought home many of the truths that Handel portrays in this musical masterpiece.

I am only on day nine as I write this review and I will continue to enjoy the inspiring work each day until I finish. I am finding Every Valley to be emotionally and spiritually stirring. Although I am reading this on Kindle I think that the print version is laid out more aesthetically. I have ordered several hardback copies for friends, including our music minister and pianist at church. I know they will find this as beautiful and impressive as I have. I was eager to post a review to encourage others to get this book for themselves and as a gift for others.

I selected this from invitation through NetGalley.

Book Review and Giveaway: The Mystery of the Shemitah by Jonathan Cahn

This is a thought provoking study that is also a call to action.

The Mystery of the Shemitah: The 3,000-Year-Old Mystery That Holds the Secret of America's Future, the World's Future, and Your Future!
by Jonathan Cahn

• Paperback: 288 pages
• Publisher: Frontline; First Paperback Edition edition (September 2, 2014)
• ISBN-13: 978-1629981932

Genre: Non-Fiction, Christian Prophesy
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: September 2, 2014
The book you can't afford NOT to read.
It is already affecting your life…
And it WILL affect your future!
Is it possible that there exists a three-thousand-year-old mystery that…
· Has been determining the course of your life without your knowing it?
· Foretells current events before they happen?
· Revealed the dates and the hours of the greatest crashes in Wall Street history before they happened?
· Determined the timing of 9/11?
· Lies behind the rise of America to global superpower… and its fall?
· Has forecast the rising and falling of the world’s stock market throughout modern times?
· Lies behind world wars and the collapse of nations, world powers, and empires?
· Holds key to what lies ahead for the world and for your life?
· And much more….

Review:
The Mystery of the Shemitah is full of detailed information explaining certain Jewish words and traditions as they related to God’s people and His beloved nation, Israel. Mr. Cahn then shows how those words and the impact, or consequences, of the conditions also fit America as a country that was founded on faith in God and profoundly blessed by God.

Mr. Cahn discusses the harbinger warnings (see The Harbinger) that have been issued to an American society that has drastically turned away from God especially during the past 50 years. Then the author explains the history and purpose of the Shemitah which was to be a ‘Sabbath’ every seven years. This was a time when the people would trust God for provision and allow the land to rest. But when the people failed to honor and celebrate the cycle of the Shemitah voluntarily, it became a judgment forced upon the people and the land by God. (Leviticus 26:31-35 and 2 Chronicles 36:15-19.)

The book tracks the greatest economic and financial crisis of the past 100 years showing charts for stock market crashes. These reflect that 85 percent of the crashes occurred during the Shemitah years. The details regarding the financial turnarounds is even more astounding as 100 percent of the crucial financial events occur during the Shemitah periods.

Mr. Cahn also makes a connection to the falling of the “towers” that might not be as clear without the Jewish understanding of the meanings and importance of the tower walls. Even Christians know the story of the Tower of Babel in Genesis 11, but many are not as familiar, or do not realize the full significance of the destruction of the towers and walls of Jerusalem.

I was struck by the detailed analysis and comparisons that this book presents. The message in the pattern is clear: if America does not cease to worship idols and does not turn back to God then America will suffer consequences of economic and financial destruction. This will also have a global impact around the world and is likely to result in shift of power.

Mr. Cahn is careful to note that he is not stating any specific date for calamity but he is pointing out the signs and pattern of the Shemitah and Tishri connections that are greater than “mere coincidence”. He is saying that the warnings have been given and the people need to take heed and act.

We read this for ladies book club and we were all excited to discuss it. One woman said she had to pause often to contemplate the hardships that her parents and grandparents experienced which most of our generation has not. Another one of our more mature members noted that in her day they did not have insurance and did not rush to the doctor for coughs and cuts. They experienced God’s provision on many occasions such as receiving gifts from others that met the needs of maternity dresses and money just in time for birthing expenses.

We all agreed that this is an important book to read, recommend and share with others. We also agreed that, although the message of the book speaks calamity that we will face, we are all secure in the hope we have in salvation and in God's control of events. We all felt called to pray and spread the message of God's saving grace through Christ Jesus.

A section of the book that particularly struck me states at page 234:

    Without God, there is no true security or safety for America. Without His hand of protection, no matter how many systems of defense the nation employs, they will fail just as they did on 9/11. America cannot defy the God of its keeping and expect that protection to continue. “Unless the Lord guards the city, the watchman stays awake in vain” (Ps 127:1). America, without God, is not safe. America, in defiance of God, is even less safe.

This was our Ladies Book Club reading for discussion in November.

Giveaway:

ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for a print copy

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
visit THE AUTHOR'S Hope of the World Website and tell me something you like/learned there.

* This contest is open US Only for Print Book.
* This contest will close 5 PM (Central) December 1, 2014.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after December 1, 2014.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Audio Review: Unwritten: A Novel by Charles Martin

If I gushed, I would gush over this audio book.
Unwritten: A Novel
Charles Martin (Author)
Kevin Stillwell (Narrator)

· Listening Length: 10 hours and 24 minutes
· Program Type: Audiobook
· Version: Unabridged
· Publisher: Hachette Audio
· Audible.com Release Date: July 9, 2013
· ASIN: B00DUHT9WK
Genre: Fiction, Inspirational
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: May 7, 2013
An actress running from her past finds escape with a man hiding from his future.
When someone wants to be lost, a home tucked among the Ten Thousand Islands off the Florida coast is a good place to live. A couple decent boats, and a deep knowledge of fishing and a man can get by without ever having to talk to another soul. It's a nice enough existence, until the one person who ties him to the world of the living, the reason he's still among them even if only on the fringes, asks him for help.

Father Steady Capri knows quite a bit about helping others. But he is afraid Katie Quinn's problems may be beyond his abilities. Katie is a world-famous actress with an all too familiar story. Fame seems to have driven her to self-destruct. Steady knows the true cause of her desire to end her life is buried too deeply for him to reach. But there is one person who still may be able to save her from herself.

He will show her an alternate escape, a way to write a new life. But Katie still must confront her past before she can find peace. Ultimately, he will need to leave his secluded home and sacrifice the serenity he's found to help her. From the Florida coast, they will travel to the French countryside where they will discover the unwritten story of both their pasts and their future.

Review:
Katie is a world famous actress sometimes known as the “ice queen”. She has many fans but few real friends. Father Steady, a Catholic Priest, became her true friend when she was a lonely teen newly arrived in America. Now he is not sure how to help her when he suspects that she has reached a point of no return.

Another of Father Steady’s lonely friends is ‘Sunday’. Sunday dropped out of society nearly ten years before after a shattering loss. He has been living a secluded life on his boats, fishing in the Florida Keys and Everglades. Father Steady hopes that this pair of broken souls might find a way to help each other pull out of their own despairs and return to live productive lives.

Sunday arrives on the scene just in time to help Father Steady ‘rescue’ a reluctant Katie. Sunday offers her the choice of disappearing from society as he did. She accepts but then insists on traveling to her homeland in France. Although Katie is not the easiest person to like, Sunday reluctantly travels with Katie and becomes her support for the ordeal she faces as she tries to make peace with her past.

At first Sunday thinks he has helped pull Katie from the worst of her depression, but when he fears she is still on the edge he realizes he will have to give up his own secrets. Then Sunday will have to face his own demons as well and hope that both he and Katie can return to share peace with their staunch friend, Father Steady, if not to completely release their self-imposed isolations.

The story is a beautifully woven mix of human emotions. The author, Mr. Martin, had me wrapped into the emotions as the painful pasts of these characters is revealed. I found myself sharing the sorrow and small joys but mostly wishing for their recovery as the pair struggle to find meaning in the pain they have experienced. Although most of us will never know the fame that Katie deals with, most readers can relate to a time when we wonder about the purpose of our life. The story also makes us realize how intertwined our lives can be with those we come in contact with, sometimes intimately and sometimes casually without even knowing the impact made.

The writing is wonderfully descriptive with prose that flows and breathes. (I did love the Florida descriptions of areas somewhat familiar to me.) This is one of those stories where I wanted to reach the ending but didn’t really want the story to end. It was the first I have read by this author but will not be the last.

Audio Notes: The narration by Kevin Stillwell was remarkable. He managed the character inflections so well I had to look to make sure there was not a female narrator too. More impressively, he conveyed the emotional depths of the characters with appropriate whispers and sometimes wrenching pain. The narration enhanced an already awesome read.

I feel blessed to have received this audiobook as a free download through NoiseTrade.

Audio Book Review: The Divine Inspiration of the Bible by Arthur W. Pink

This is a wonderfully edifying and encouraging listen.
The Divine Inspiration of the Bible
Author: Arthur W. Pink
Narrator: Ralph Cosham

Runtime: 3.2 Hours
Recording: Unabridged
Release date: 5.6.2014
Publisher: Blackstone Audio
Genre: Nonfiction/Religion
ISBN-13: 978-1-4830-0194-4
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0

Publisher/Date: Blackstone Audio, 05/06/14
Summary
“Deny that the Bible is, without any qualifications, the very word of God, and you are left without any ultimate standard of measurement and without any supreme authority.”—from the book
The Bible is the foundation of Christianity. In The Divine Inspiration of the Bible, Arthur Pink sets out to defend the belief that this holy book is, in fact, the true word of God. In doing so he examines the idea of divine inspiration and presents various arguments that aim to prove God Almighty is the author of the Bible.
This book not only examines evidence for the trustworthiness of scripture and what belief in inspiration means but also helps Christians achieve a firmer understanding of the Bible’s authority.
Originally published in 1917

Review:
I loved this audio book. I read Pink’s The Sovereignty of God about 20 years ago and remembered that I thought it was sound, if sometimes difficult, theology teaching. I already believe that the Bible is the infallible word of God but I was interested in the presentations that Pink would make. The book is laid out with each chapter dedicated to a specific, concise argument. As an attorney I appreciated that the arguments and proofs are supported by logical statements and examples that make sense to a person with an open mind and heart. The first chapter presents a “Presumption in Favor of the Bible”. Again, this resonates in legal precedence for me. Other chapters discuss the “Character of Its Teachings”, “Fulfilled Prophesies” and the “Wonderful Unity” as just a few of the themes explored with precision and confidence. Some of the supporting statements I had heard before but others were fresh and all of it was edifying.

I found myself excited about how well the text fit with and encouraged my current Bible reading. It also reinforced past studies I have read (and led) that show how the Old Testament and the New Testament speak as one from the beginning (“In the beginning God created...” Genesis 1:1) to the ending warnings not to add or take away from the scrolls (Revelation 22:18-19).

This book was originally published in 1917 but it is timely today. It has a scholarly, gentle, but forceful and confident, tone that lends strength to the arguments. The audio is a quick listen - less than four hours. I highly recommend this to everyone. Believers and followers of Christ will be encouraged and uplifted. Those who are seeking, and even those who would object or rebel, will find sound arguments if they read (or listen) with fair-mindedness.

Audio notes: The narration by Ralph Cosham enhanced the book for me. It matches the text by being precise and on the side of elegant. This is a book I could, and suspect that I will, listen to repeatedly just for the shear joy and uplift it brought me.

I received this from Blackstone Audio through Audiobook Jukebox for an honest review.

Book Review: Take Back the Morning by Evan Howard

This contains a different view of Hell and strong, positive messages of redemption.

Take Back the Morning
by Evan Howard

• File Size: 1696 KB
• Print Length: 288 pages
• Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited
• Publisher: Wilcox Publishing Group; 1 edition (April 28, 2014)
• ASIN: B00K0J3LK2

Genre:  Inspirational Fiction, Thriller
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: April 28, 2014
A corrupt stockbroker on the run . . .
An economy in turmoil . . .
And a mysterious pendant sought by the richest woman on Wall Street.
Terrified of going to jail, Justin Connelly faked his death and fled the seductions of Manhattan for the quiet corners of Providence, Rhode Island. His only keepsake was an antique pendant engraved with strange markings.
But then a sailing accident almost kills him for real. In his near-death state Justin is taken to the depths of Hell itself, where he sees things that drive him out of hiding and back to his abandoned wife in New York. But Tori’s moved on, and his old enemies on Wall Street are not happy to see him. They want the pendant, which in the wrong hands could destroy humanity—and Justin’s former boss definitely has the wrong hands. The only way out is to swallow his pride, and his doubt, and work with Tori and her new fiancé to expose the truth.
As world economies—and his own soul—hang in the balance, Justin must decide how much he is willing to sacrifice.
A spiritual thriller critically relevant to the crises of our time.

Review:
Justin Connelly loved his wife, Tori, but he got caught up in striving for corporate advancement, including an adulterous relationship with his powerful and alluring female boss, Candace. Justin realized that Candace had unusual persuasive powers, derived from a mysterious pendant, that had helped make her the richest woman on Wall Street. Justin was trying to end the affair with Candace when the 9/11 bombings took out their building, Believing Candace dead, Justin took the pendant and moved to Providence, Rhode Island, under an assumed name. He still thinks of his wife but is unable to face her with the truth of his betrayal.

Justin suffers a head injury during a sailing accident. While in a coma Justin is given a tour of Hell and given a second chance to redeem himself. He is directed to return to the world of the living, help others by sharing his experience and the message of love and salvation and keep the pendant safe from evil hands.

When Justin wakes from his coma he learns that his abandoned wife learned he is alive through the press. He is also surprised when Candace shows up alive and desperately searching for the pendant.

While struggling with her grief over loosing Justin, Tori has grown close to Justin’s best friend, Paul. Paul is seperated from his wife but has asked Tori to marry him as soon as his divorce is final. Paul is extremely angry that Justin ran out on Tori and he insists that Tori shouldn’t forgive him and take him back,

Candace and her henchmen attack Tori thinking that she has the mysterious pendant. Justin, Tori and Paul are thrown together as they try to keep the pendant away form Candace. Tori is reluctant to trust Justin but can’t deny the changes that she sees in his attitude towards others and in the powerful messages he is sharing.

The vision of Hell is an interesting interpretation, stressing the struggles men have trying to resist the temptations of lust, greed, selfishness and more. The plot is entertaining with a lot of action, attacks and chases but some of this seemed contrived. I had to wonder where the authorities were while Candace’s men kept showing up. I enjoyed the positive messages conveyed in the story, though many were presented as speeches so they come across as “preachy”. The questions at the end are excellent for provoking thought and discussion.

This is listed as a thriller and there is action. However I think it is on the weak side of a thriller and strong side of inspirational. Although it wasn't really what I expected it was entertaining.

I received this title through NetGalley.

Book Review and Giveaway: Unwilling Warrior by Andrea Boeshaar

This is an easy, sweet historical romance.
Unwilling Warrior, Seasons of Redemption Series #1
by Andrea Boeshaar

• Paperback: 304 pages
• Publisher: Realms; 1st edition (May 4, 2010)
• ISBN-10: 1599799855
• 
  

Genre: Inspirational, Historical Romance

My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Product Description
The War Between the States has Valerie Fontaine frightened about her future. She never suspects she'll be thrust into the middle of it. Benjamin McCabe's got a noble dream of photographing the Civil War - and he never expected to fall in love with a New Orleans socialite.
When Valerie's father is arrested on charges of treason, Ben secures a way for her to leave the city and travel to his family's home in Jericho Junction, Missouri where she'll be safe.Can Valerie adjust to life on the prairie and remain true to her promise to wait for Ben no matter what the cost?

Review:
Valerie Fontaine is a gentle nineteen year-old who has returned from school in Virginia to be with her father for their first Christmas since her mother died. Valerie was very close to her loving mother and is sad that she was not there when her mother took. Now she discovers that her father objects to her coming home. He has always been distant but now he is drinking due to his grief. Since the 1861 battles of the Civil War are increasing he can’t safely send Valerie back. Now his main wish is to marry Valerie to James Landon, a childhood friend. Valerie doesn’t mind James as an escort but she has no desire to marry him and is learning that his behavior is ungentlemanly and controlling.

Benjamin McCabe is a photojournalist traveling with his friend Clint and his new wife, Emily. Ben and Clint are photographing the war, but Ben is also busy searching for his brother Luke, whom they lost at the battle of Bull Run. Ben refuses to return home to Jericho Junction, Missouri, until he finds Luke.

Ben is staying with the Fontaines on his visit to New Orleans and is immediately drawn to Valerie’s beauty and sweet spirit. Ben and his country life-style were rejected by a Boston sweetheart so he is cautious of entering a relationship. Yet Ben is concerned about James’ treatment and attitude towards Valerie and he can’t accept that she might be forced to marry James.

Although Ben and Clint have stayed neutral in the war, they agree to take on a photograph assignment for a Confederate Colonel, hoping to find information about Luke and giving Ben a reason to remain in New Orleans longer. When the packet of photos is turned in they include one that shows Mr. Fontaine with a known Yankee sympathizer. The Colonel announces that Mr. Fontaine and the Landon’s are about to be arrested and Valerie is to be taken into custody as a suspected conspirator. Ben realizes he must do something to help so he whisks Valerie off to his cousin, Pastor Elliot, to marry them. Then Emily and the new Mrs. McCabe will be sent off to Missouri where they can wait in safety.

Valerie and Emily are surprised to find Catherine Elliot on the ship for travel. Catherine is in love with Ben and has prepared herself to be his wife in his country town. She resents Valerie and is sure that the marriage will be annulled when Ben returns.

Valerie must adjust to the different life-style with her new in-laws. Although Catherine continues to belittle her as a wealthy daughter who never had to work, that is not who Valerie is. Valerie helped with chores and loved to help her mother make homemade soaps with passages of Psalm 55 attached. Valerie is welcomed by the McCabes and is thankful for the warmth of her new “family”. Catherine continues to show anger and bitterness and feeds Valerie’s doubts of Ben’s motives for marrying her. When Ben returns will they begin a life of love together or will he ask for an annulment?

This is an easy read and a charming story. There is great contrast in the characters, especially Catherine, the preacher’s daughter, and Valerie, the wealthy ship merchant’s daughter. The setting is in the early stages of war and most scenes are only on the peripheral edges of the battles. Still there is interesting detail given regarding the times and how the war is effecting the lives of citizens. There is an underlying strength of faith and goodness in the story without ‘preachiness’.

All of the ladies in book club enjoyed the warm story and we decided to read book two for our April book and May meeting. We recommend this book to those who enjoy a warm, historical, inspirational and sweet romance.

This was our Ladies' Club selection for March reading/April meeting.

ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the Print Copy.

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

 visit the author's website and tell me something you like/learned there.

* This contest is open to U.S. address only for print.
* This contest will close 5PM (Central) on April 14, 2014.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after April 14, 2014.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review: Heart of a Hero by Marie Higgins

This is a fun, sweet historical western with a strong, if stubborn, heroine.

Heart of a Hero
by Marie Higgins

• File Size: 445 KB
• Print Length: 291 pages
• Publisher: Brigham Distributing (January 1, 2010)
• ASIN: B0051UT9M4

Genre: Historical Western Romance, Inspirational
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: January 1, 2010
There's a new hero in town... When Summer Bennett returns to Richfield after a five-year stint at her aunt's finishing school, she discovers a lot has changed. Her father has suffered a crippling injury, and Summer is desperate to get the money to pay for surgery that could allow him to walk again.

She hears of a reward offered for the capture of a cunning gang of bank robbers, and her years of etiquette training fall by the dusty roadside.

What Summer doesn't count on in her quest to capture the bandits is the competition from her family's longtime friend, Jesse Slade. Now a deputy marshal and local hero, Jesse keeps thwarting Summer's plans, just like he did when she wore pigtails. She would like nothing more than to use Jesse's head for a slingshot target, but soon Summer finds her aim shifting from his head to his heart. Problem is, Jesse is engaged to her sister Violet.

Review:
Summer Bennet was a childhood tomboy always competing with her family’s friend, Jesse Slade. At fifteen Summer went off to her Aunt’s finishing school where she learned how to be a lady although she didn’t lose all of her bold ways. Five years later she is returning home when the stagecoach is attacked by bandits. Summer crawls out the window to help the driver defend against the attack. She is able to disable or kill several but takes a shot herself but then is rescued by a deputy marshal coming from town. She is glad for the help until she discovers the hero is none other than her childhood nemesis, Jesse.

Jesse is shocked to discover the person fighting the bandits is Summer. Although it is clear she is still willing to face danger she has matured into a beautiful young woman. She still immediately takes offense at his rescue but he can’t help but be attracted to her spirit and beauty. He can’t be too attracted though because he is engaged to Summer’s sister, Violet.

Jesse and Violet have been engaged for a number of years but she keeps putting off their wedding date. Some think it is because Jesse is not a man of faith while Violet and Summer’s family rely on their faith in God. Jesse and Violet know that they no longer share a tender attraction but have just a comfortable friendship. They have been reluctant to tell Summer’s family since her father, the local blacksmith, suffered an accident that paralyzed his legs.

Jesse, his older brother Clint, another deputy marshal, and other marshals are trying to catch the bandits. Summer decides that she wants to catch the gang so she can use the reward for doctors for her father. Of course this means sneaking around in her old trousers and getting into dangerous situations that Jesse has to rescue her from.

Summer doesn’t understand her attraction to Jesse and feels especially guilty because of the engagement between Jesse and Violet. Summer and her family are glad to welcome attentions from Albert, a young man of a wealthy family who met Summer while she was with her Aunt. Summer tries to turn her attention away from Jesse but she isn’t totally comfortable with Albert. Jesse doesn’t think Albert is all he claims to be but perhaps Albert can offer Summer more than he can.

This is a fun, sweet romp with interesting tension and misunderstandings between Summer and Jesse. Neither wish to acknowledge their feelings and when they finally try there are more mixed messages. I really enjoyed the bright, strong characters and the underlying faith in Summer’s family. The story is warm and easy, enjoyable reading. This is the second story I have read by Marie Higgins. I enjoy her writing style and look forward to reading more of her books.

I received this title from Walnut Press for review.

Book Review and Giveaways (three total): The Gunsmith's Gallantry, Ladies Shooting Club Series #2 by Susan Page Davis

This is another fun, easy read in the Ladies Shooting Club Series.

The Gunsmith's Gallantry, Ladies Shooting Club Series #2

by Susan Page Davis

Number of Pages: 320

Vendor: Barbour Publishing

Publication Date: 2010

ISBN-13: 9781602607958

$1.99 (CBD Price)

Genre: Historical Romance, Western

My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Product Description

Widowed gunsmith Hiram Dooley is in a fix. His widowed sister-in-law believes Hiram's duty is to marry her, and shopkeeper Libby Adams has no idea that he loves her. When the schoolteacher's uncle is murdered, Libby and Hiram team up to solve the crime. Will Hiram be able to tell Libby his true feelings?

Review:
Hiram Dooley has been reclusive for several years since the death of his wife in childbirth. He is pleased his sister, Trudy, has found a beau in his best friend, town sheriff, Ethan (The Sheriff's Surrender - Book 1). Although he is beginning to wonder when Ethan is going to get the gumption to make Trudy his bride. Hiram is also beginning to wonder if he might be able to find love again as he becomes more interested in the town shopkeeper, widow Libby Adams.  First though Hiram has to deal with the complication of his first wife’s prissy sister-in-law who has moved in with the idea that Hiram should marry her!

Libby hasn't been looking for another husband but she keeps noticing the steady strength, honesty and goodness of her best friend’s brother, Hiram. If they are both ready to move away from their morning pasts, perhaps her future could hold more than just a widow’s life running the town mercantile.

Although this book presents itself as Libby and Hiram’s story, their relationship is really quietly building in the background while the action revolves around Isabel and her father, Cyrus. Cyrus is the biggest land owner in town and wealthiest man as he runs the stage and bed & breakfast among other interests. One night a strange, rather unkempt man shows up at their house and he is introduced to Isabel as her Uncle. This is news to Isabel who never heard her mother talk about a brother. Isabel doesn't hear the man leave but a bit later discovers her father secretly burying something behind the barn. Isabel seeks comfort and help from Libby as she is frightened especially as her father becomes more and more uncommunicative. Then he starts trying to sell land around town to raise money but Isabel doesn't know why.

A new group of rough cowboys show up in town causing some ruckus for the sheriff and raising concerns from other townsfolk. It seems that the family trouble between Cyrus and Isabel is related to the rough man who has set up ranching on one of Cyrus’ properties.

Before Ethan, Trudy, Libby and Hiram can help Isabel to figure out what is going on with Cyrus she is kidnapped. It is heartwarming when the whole town steps forward to help Cyrus rescue one of their own.

There is gentle humor and western action to keep this story interesting. It moves at a good pace especially since we know the town characters from the first book. I really enjoy how the author brings in Christian messages of love, forgiveness and trust by making them part of the characters' lives in sharing rather than a preaching situation.

This is the second book in the series. Although it could be read as a stand alone I recommend reading the books in order to get a better grasp on the manner town characters. One of our book club members thought we were reading book 3 instead of 2. She said that book 3 is a fun read too.

I picked up book 1 and 2 in this series at very good prices for Ladies Book Club.

I have decided to giveaway print books 1 and 2 separately but in this one entry - so TWO WINNERS get one print book each. Please note that The Sheriff's Surrender is still available for $1.65 at CBD and The Gunsmith's Gallantry is $1.99. All three books in the series are available in ebook format from CBD for the very reasonable price of $6.05 with no postage costs! SO - I am adding a THIRD WINNER for the ebook of all three stories!
ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the gently used Print Copies.

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 first review, second review OR

 visit the author's website and tell me something you like/learned there.

* This contest is open to U.S. address only for print but worldwide for the ebook!
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on March 26, 2014.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after March 26, 2014.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review with Giveaway Question: The Sheriff's Surrender (Ladies' Shooting Club) by Susan Page Davis

This is a delightfully fun, easy, inspirational read that gives a good picture of life in the old west.

The Sheriff's Surrender (Ladies' Shooting Club)
by Susan Page Davis

Format: Paperback
Number of Pages: 320
Vendor: Barbour Publishing
Publication Date: 2009
ISBN: 1602605629
Series: Ladies Shooting Club
(Still available for $1.65!)

Genre: Historical, Inspirational
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Product Description
Gert Dooley can shoot the tail feathers off a jay at a hundred yards, but she wants Ethan Chapman to see she's more than a crack shot with a firearm. When the sheriff of Fergus, Idaho, is murdered and Ethan is named his replacement, Gert decides she has to do whatever she can to help him protect the citizenry. So she starts the Ladies Shooting Club. But when of their numbers is murdered, these ladies are called on for more than target shooting and praying. Can Gert and the ladies of Fergus find the murderer before he strikes again?

Review:
Gert came to the small community of Fergus, Idaho eight years ago to help her older brother, Hiram, and his wife with a new baby. Unfortunately when she arrived she found Hiram secluded in grief over their deaths. She continues to take care of the reclusive Hiram helping him in his gun smithing business by shooting the weapons he repairs. Over the years she has become one of the best shots in town. Gert doesn’t dress fancy or wear her hair pretty... she is just steady, reliable, capable Gert who has a sweet spot for Hiram’s best friend, Ethan.

Ethan is a local bachelor committed to the hard work of building his own ranch. When the old time sheriff is found dead one morning the town council recruits Ethan as temporary sheriff. Although Ethan is reluctant, he steps up to the duty. As he and Hiram investigate the crime scene evidence reveals the death was murder, not an accident. When a second victim is killed the town really starts to worry.

Libby, the widowed storekeeper who is also Gert’s good friend, asks Gert to teach her how to shoot. Soon many of the ladies in town, wives and daughters, and even saloon girls, join the practice sessions. They even allow an old, poor, dirty and smelly recluse, Milzie, to join them.

The group declares themselves the Ladies Shooting Club and start by reaching out to help each other. Then they offer to help the Sheriff with street patrols. One brassy lady, a saloon (brothel?) owner, becomes a deputy. As Ethan works along with Hiram and Gert to solve the mystery of the murders he begins to see Gert in a new light as friendship grows to affection.

Gert represents a good deal of pioneer spirit and a bit of the stirring for women’s rights! She also represents a heart of a servant who helps others with joy and no judgment. She seeks to share her love of faith because she cares about everyone in her community, no matter their station or profession. There is a sense of humbleness provided by Gert and Ethan and a sweet sense of allowing God to work things out in His time, including their courtship.

There is a story of revenge but there are also so many good real life features presented in this sweet story. There are issues of bigotry and pride, in small and big ways. The story shows the tendency to live our lives in insular fashion and not realize the desperate needs of some of those very near until some trigger brings the community together to provide more care for one another.

The writing is clear and this is a quick easy read. There is humor and warm fuzzies that overshadow the evil. I found it delightful and recommend it to those who enjoy fun, inspirational historical reading.

This was our Jan- Feb Ladies Book Club read. The group has not yet met to discuss this book as we postponed February’s meeting, however, several ladies told me that they felt this was such a real portrayal of western life. They were very enthusiastic so I ordered the second book in the series and we will be discussing both books in our meeting in March.

GIVEAWAY QUESTION: I will be offering both books for GIVEAWAY and here is a question for those who will be interested: Would you prefer the books be offered separately for giveaway or as a set of two to one winner? Let me know by your comments and I will decide how to list the giveaways. Thanks.

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.