The Reason by Willam Sirls

I sympathized with the characters, I agonized with their heart wrenching traumas, I appreciated the Christian testimony— all until I came to the last chapter. The Reason, by William Sirls, is a novel replete with contemporary problems and relatable characters, but I was disappointed with the shocking conclusion.  The story centers on single mom Brooke Thomas who is raising her son, Alex, in the home of Pastor and Mrs. Lindy.  When a lightning bolt shatter their church’s cross, staff from the local hospital join the family’s repair efforts.  Also volunteering to help is an unknown carpenter whose recurring appearances begin to affect each character.  Problems abound: Brooke’s son develops life-threatening leukemia, her best friend is an alcoholic, and Pastor Lindy is blind with a disabled son.   Such issues are not that improbable given today’s society. And a Christian message of faith prevails.  However, the story’s conclusion is hardly believable and, to me, appears inappropriate. In The Reason, author Sirls demonstrates a knack for dealing with modern day situations of addiction, illness and relationships.  Christian belief plays an important part of this story.  However the seemingly contrived sci-fi that concluded the story disappointed me. We all need to deal in faith with the discouraging, even devastating, realities of life, and on earth, there are not always happy endings.

I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review; the words expressed here are my own.

Michael Neale’s The River delivers a poignant story of a young man’s coming of age and coming to terms with his father’s tragic death.  It is an interesting read with engaging description and several riveting sections, but the lack of a clear Christian message somewhat disappoints.  Neale frames this narrative as a tale told in an airport by a world travelling whitewater guide.  Journal entries by the guide and others are sprinkled through the novel.  The story centers on Gabriel Clarke, who at the age of five, witnesses his father’s rescue of a careless kayaker.  Dad John Clarke saves the kayaker’s life but loses his own, and Gabriel is devastated.  Through the years, Gabriel harbors a resentment  toward  the kayaker who lived and for the river that took his dad’s life. The story follows Gabriel as he grows up with a mom he has hardly known, and as he searches for answers in unlikely places with surprising results.  Neale’s descriptions take the reader into the rugged outdoors. We can almost hear the rushing water and feel the craggy rocks under our sneakers.  We can smell those sizzling rib eyes on the campfire.   We can empathize with Gabriel’s plight because we’ve all searched for life’s answers.  However, this story does not cite Christian answers.  Redemption is a theme, but it is not clear that it is Christian redemption.  This novel is recommended as a compelling story, but it lacks the message expected from “Christian fiction.”  I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the words expressed here are my own.

 

 

Michael Neale’s The River delivers a poignant story of a young man’s coming of age and coming to terms with his father’s tragic death.  It is an interesting read with engaging description and several riveting sections, but the lack of a clear Christian message somewhat disappoints.  Neale frames this narrative as a tale told in an airport by a world travelling whitewater guide.  Journal entries by the guide and others are sprinkled through the novel.  The story centers on Gabriel Clarke, who at the age of five, witnesses his father’s rescue of a careless kayaker.  Dad John Clarke saves the kayaker’s life but loses his own, and Gabriel is devastated.  Through the years, Gabriel harbors a resentment  toward  the kayaker who lived and for the river that took his dad’s life. The story follows Gabriel as he grows up with a mom he has hardly known, and as he searches for answers in unlikely places with surprising results.  Neale’s descriptions take the reader into the rugged outdoors. We can almost hear the rushing water and feel the craggy rocks under our sneakers.  We can smell those sizzling rib eyes on the campfire.   We can empathize with Gabriel’s plight because we’ve all searched for life’s answers.  However, this story does not cite Christian answers.  Redemption is a theme, but it is not clear that it is Christian redemption.  This novel is recommended as a compelling story, but it lacks the message expected from “Christian fiction.”  I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the words expressed here are my own.

 

 

Twelve Unlikely Heroes by John MacArthur

Would you like to meet a man who “was and was not” or a man who would not be king?   These, along with ten other well-known and little-known men and women, are part of Twelve Unlikely Heroes,  written by noted pastor and author John MacArthur.  This book is a must-read spiritual experience.  Through reading the stories of these sometimes imperfect heroes, we learn that God can use us even with our imperfections.  Miriam, for example, was instrumental in saving the life of her baby brother who became Israel’s leader out of bondage.  Yet Miriam became jealous of Moses and suffered a deserved punishment. She had to learn obedience and to draw closer to God.  MacArthur calls her “the leading lady of the Exodus.” Also, James, Jesus’ half brother, who had grown up with the Lord, was a skeptic until the resurrection. Then, however, he became a leader in the Jerusalem church, proclaiming the way of salvation. Each hero’s story is penned with Biblical accuracy, yet in a down to earth, readable style that makes us eager to read more. MacArthur allows us to see the weaknesses as well as the strengths. He encourages us to see how God worked in each hero’s life to accomplish His purpose. We can see ourselves, in the disobedience of Jonah, in the desire of Samson, in the decision making of Esther. And MacArthur’s message is clear that we too can be used of God if we surrender to His will.   I highly recommend this book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the review here expresses my own opinion.

Through Rushing Waters

Through Rushing Water by Catherine Richmond

The best book I’ve read in a long time, Through Rushing Water is a thoroughly engaging story that combines history with romance and adventure. Christian fiction writer Catherine Richmond has crafted an excellent, must-read novel that shines with genuine yet unique characters in a colorful, old West setting.

After being jilted by her intended fiancé, Sophia Makinoff takes the first offer to leave her college town. She signs up with the Mission Board to teach Ponca Indian children in the American West of the 1800s. Sophia’s sophisticated manners are definitely out of place in this rough, uncharted  territory. She quickly discovers that the Indians suffer from a lack of food and basic farming implements.  Sophia lives in the Indian Agency house with Preacher Henry, his mother, Nettie, agent James and carpenter Will.  Teaching in a one-room schoolhouse, Sophia has experiences with the children that begin to change them and her.  Along with light-hearted, funny classroom moments, there is the disturbing backdrop of the historical movement of all tribes to the “Indian Territory.”  

This is a masterful story filled with compassion, history and just plain fun. It’s a love story of Sophia and the man she can’t seem to understand even as he protects her from gun runners and a devastating snowstorm.  It’s a commentary on the sometimes cruel treatment of the proud Native Americans forced to leave the land they love.  It’s a tribute to God’s grace as Sophia’s faith grows day by day.

Making the story even more engaging, the author has penned events and characters from historical research; the “Author’s Note” appendix is quite enlightening.  Kudos to a professional writer who keeps the reader wondering what will happen next and does not bore us with unnecessary detail. I highly recommend this book.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions expressed here are my own.

The Truth About Grace

John MacArthur’s The Truth About Grace should be on the “must read” list for every Christian, especially those who have questions about the awesome, but somewhat mysterious quality of God’s grace.  Beginning with the definitions of grace and ending with the “ongoing work of grace in the Christian’s rebellious life,” MacArthur emphasizes God’s great love for humanity.

God’s saving grace frees people from sin; we cannot accomplish this by our own efforts. Although this concept is difficult for many to comprehend, Pastor MacArthur clearly explains the plan of salvation: “by faith alone, through grace alone, in Christ alone.”  His discussion includes many scriptural examples such as Jesus’ feeding the five thousand and Naaman’s leprosy cure.  The life and teachings of Paul are also described.  MacArthur additionally has a message for the church of today:  beware of false teachers who “often deliberately conceal themselves within the heart of the evangelical mainstream.”

This relatively short, easily read paperback book is easy to carry in briefcase or purse for a few free moments of meditation.  It can also be an excellent devotional study with an open Bible handy to look up the many verses cited by MacArthur.

Written by a noted and well-respected pastor and author, this book is part of “The Truth About” series. It is highly recommended as a Biblically based and straightforward explanation of salvation.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book to read and  review. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions expressed here are my own.

Hope Springs by Kim Cash Tate

Hope Springs

Hope Springs by Kim Cash Tate is a Christian novel that deals with many family and personal dynamics. The story is set in the small Southern town of Hope Springs.  With her husband serving a medical mission out of the country, Stephanie returns home to become a caregiver for her terminally ill grandmother.  Janelle, with her two small children, hopes to find solace in her childhood home town as she mourns the death of her husband.   Becca comes to Hope Springs, her husband’s boyhood home, with misgivings over leaving the big city that affords her contacts for her own ministry. These women, along with other family members, the diner waitress, and two pastors help each other deal with personal tragedies as they bond across racial differences.  The story contains several romantic subplots; for example, Janelle reunites with her high school boyfriend only to discover he is going through an acrimonious divorce.  Their relationship takes many twists and turns.

A strong Christian witness is embedded throughout the novel.   The characters are realistic and contemporary;  their problems and concerns are real.  Frequent Bible verses and references to holy living are emphasized.  At times, however, an overabundance of dialogue becomes tiresome to follow.

I was given a complimentary e-book copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions expressed here are my own.

Arms of Love by Kelly Long

Arms of Love by Kelly Long

A young man’s repressed terrors, a young woman’s desire to marry the man she loves, and the Amish principle of non-violence – all of these, in the backdrop of the Revolutionary War, come together in Kelly Long’s historical Christian romance, Arms of Love.  While the premise of the book is compelling, the romantic tension between Adam and Lena becomes tedious.  Early in the story, in an effort to settle his personal demons, Adam says he will not marry Lena but will go to fight in the war, a repudiation of  his Amish faith. Yet, the two lovers continue to meet, too coincidentally.  There is just too much tedium between the exposition and the conclusion.  On the other hand, the story comes to a fitting and excellent conclusion.  All loose ends are tied up and the reader is somewhat surprised but quite satisfied.   The author explores Amish beliefs and habits with sensitivity. We learn not only about Amish views on violence but also about such traditions as “bundling” and the Amish wedding.  For the consideration of book clubs, Long’s novel contains an extensive question and answer section. The questions provided should provoke interesting discussion.  Overall, Arms of Love is a pleasant and pleasurable read.

I received a complimentary copy of this e-book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions expressed here are my own. 

The Truth About Forgiveness by John MacArthur

In The Truth About Forgiveness, pastor and author John MacArthur discusses God’s great gift of forgiveness.  In this easy to read compact book, part of The Truth About series, MacArthur first explores our need to be forgiven of our sins.  Our redeemer, of course, is Jesus Christ.  God, in the form of His only son, paid the only acceptable sin sacrifice.  His love for us was that great.

MacArthur first deals with the reason for forgiveness, man’s sin: “to deny personal guilt is to sacrifice the soul for the sake of the ego.”  The example is given of the paralytic who was lowered from the ceiling to receive Jesus’ healing.  MacArthur notes “Healing is actually a perfect metaphor for forgiveness.”  Forgiveness for sin must come to a repentant heart in order for reconciliation with the Father to occur.

MacArthur also counsels those who have been so violated that they find it hard to forgive others. Using Jesus’ own example from the cross, MacArthur advises, “The greatest measuring rod of love in the life of a Christian may be forgiveness.”

Clearly arranged in short chapters with appropriate subtitles, this book could serve as a week’s personal devotional study. It could also be the basis of a book club or small group discussion. It answers questions we all struggle with throughout our spiritual walk; moreover, it is pure Gospel shared by one of our master preachers, John MacArthur. I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions expressed are my own.

Need You Now by Beth Wiseman

A compelling read for parents and teenagers, Beth Wiseman’s Christian fiction novel, Need You Now, presents problematic issues of today in a no-holds barred format.  Wiseman deals with autism, teen rebellion, and the psychological addiction of cutting. Her story also explores the effects that children’s problems can have on a marriage. Continually emphasizing the need and benefit of prayer, the author leads Darlene and Brad  through trials that are surely faced by many families today.

The story begins with the family‘s move to a small Texas town, in part to avoid adolescent attractions and distractions of the big city for their three children.  Darlene, who had always been a stay at home mom preparing gourmet meals and keeping a spotless house, takes a job at a school for special needs children. She develops a unique bond with one student, but the student’s widowed father appears to seek a bond with Darlene. Darlene must deal with these pressures and also a movie star neighbor who needs her friendship. Then, when her own daughter needs her more than anyone, Darlene can’t seem to count on her husband for support.

In this plain spoken novel, Wiseman explores real life problems in an authentic manner. Indeed, married couples often disagree on child raising, and indeed children can have serious issues. The author captures real life and captivates the reader with a fast paced story that is difficult to put down. This would be a helpful book for teens and parents to read and discuss together.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the comments here are my own.

Simply Grilling: 105 recipes for quick and casual grilling by Jennifer Chandler

Serving up appetizers such as bacon-wrapped dates and desserts such as grasshopper icebox cake, chef and cookbook author Jennifer Chandler presents mouth-watering recipes in Simply Grilling: 105 recipes for quick and casual grilling.  The author bills her book as “easy, no-fuss grilling.” She urges readers to try grilling “even on the busiest night of the week.”   Although she reminisces about backyard slow cooked meats that required hours on the grill, she shares recipes that fit today’s hectic life style. Chandler’s Honey Mustard Salmon, for example, can be prepared in less than 20 minutes.

To encourage even the most reluctant grillmaster, Chandler includes “Grill 101” in which she discusses types of grills, temperatures, and essential gear. But it’s her recipes that capture the attention and the hunger pangs of the reader. Ginger-Soy Flank Steak gets its flavor from a spicy marinade; Lemon Oregano has a tasty herb-garlic mixture just under the skin. Grilled Avocado BLT Salad makes a fresh and flavorful lighter meal. Grilled Bananas Foster features the fruit grilled in its own skin.

Food photographs accompany each recipe.  It’s helpful to see what the food will look like in finished form. Some of the pictures appear a bit too charred, but perhaps grill marks are the essence of the barbecue aficionado.

Grillers, both authentic ones and wannabees, will find this book not only interesting but inspiring. Chandler encourages all of us to read her tips, try new recipes and, above all, to get out and grill. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and, after reading the book, the comments here are my own.

Dawn Comes Early by Margaret Bromley

Featuring  a gun-toting criminal, a feisty female writer of dime novels, and a handsome blacksmith, Dawn Comes Early, by Margaret Brownley, delivers a wild west Christian fiction romance sure to please.  When Kate Tenney answers an ad to work on the Last Chance ranch, little does she know that she will meet characters that even her fiction-writing mind could not create. Cactus Joe is a genuine outlaw with a penchant for writing his own life story. Lula-Belle and Bessie are the meddlesome aunts who cook  fried chicken as well as they try to find a wife for their nephew Luke. Miss Walker, the owner of Last Chance Ranch, is a feminist far before her time; her contract for her successor forbids marriage.

Brownley takes the reader, along with these colorful characters, through many twists and turns as heroine Kate battles the western elements and her own heart.  If she falls in love and marries, she loses the ranch. But the handsome Luke Adams makes that decision very difficult. Kate must deal with this dilemma which is complicated by her own memories of an unhappy childhood and a neglectful mother.

Bromley’s descriptive writing makes the scene come alive.  You can hear the horses’ hooves and smell the dust. You remember the lively characters long after the last page is turned. The action is fast-paced and suspenseful.

Cowboy Ruckus is a spiritual influence as he quotes Bible verses and leads the crew in daily prayer. Otherwise, there is not a strong evangelical emphasis. Overall, this story has comedy, romance and a lively plot set in the old west. A great read, it provides pleasurable reading and many smiles.

I received a complimentary e-book from the publisher to review. I was not required to write a positive review and the comments above are my own.

Beauty for Ashes by Dorothy Love

Beauty for Ashes by Dorothy Love

Beauty for Ashes by Dorothy Love is a fast paced Christian novel filled with action and romance. Set in post Civil War Tennessee, the story centers on Carrie Daly, a young widow, who yearns for new love while she tirelessly cares for her brother’s family. In this historical fiction, Ms. Love has crafted an entertaining, engaging tale that should appeal to many.

The author creates memorable characters that are recalled long after the story has ended. The bookseller beau tries to capture Carrie’s heart. The handsome horse trainer is unwilling to love until his own family situation is resolved. The flamboyant gambler-girl has too many secrets. The sister-in-law is demanding and selfish. The plot moves with Carrie from the family farm to the town boarding house and back again.  The characters are realistic and rambunctious. Even heroine Carrie has some faults that she must overcome in her search for spiritual maturity.

I found the beginning of the novel somewhat confusing due to the many characters presented so early. Once into the story, however, the relationships fell into place.  I later discovered that this is the second in a series; readers of the first story would probably be familiar with the names.

This novel (read as an e-book) has several subplots that keep the reader intrigued and wondering what will happen next. I recommend Beauty for Ashes as a story to be enjoyed and remembered.

I received a complimentary review copy of this novel as an ebook from the publisher. I was not asked to write a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are my own.

Heart of Gold by Robin Lee Hatcher

A Christian historical romance of the American Old West, Heart of Gold by Robin Lee Hatcher is a pleasurable and inspiring read.  When Shannon Adair moves with her minister father, Delaney, to the Idaho Territory, her thoughts remain on the Civil War that is raging near her Virginia home. Shannon does not expect to fit into this frontier town with its saloons and street fights. She is disappointed to see the tiny parsonage where she will cook, clean and assist her father with pastoral duties. And her first impression of stage driver Matthew Dubois is anything but positive.  When his sister and her young son come to live with him, Shannon is called upon to nurse the terminally ill Alice. Shannon’s somewhat tumultuous relationship with Matthew must survive another persuasive suitor, stagecoach holdups, and her own pride. The story takes many twists and turns as Shannon’s faith in God is tested and strengthened.   The author weaves in historical facts of the 1800s, including Civil War anecdotes, into this romance. Her narration is lively and she builds up appropriate suspense that keeps the pages turning. I felt as if I knew the characters. I was there with Shannon when she played the church organ or fried chicken over the wood stove. Delaney’s faith in the face of obstacles and his Scripture verses were inspirational.  I enjoyed this ebook and  recommend Heart of Gold to others.

I received this book free of charge from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and the opinions expressed here are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.