Wednesday, December 31, 2014

CD Review - Manic Drive - VIP album

CD Review:  Manic Drive – VIP

I was pleasantly surprised that I had the opportunity to review music this month from FlyBy Promotions and to bring you my review of this album.

I have known of Manic Drive for quite some time and they are a very talented Christian pop group that sings uplifting songs.  Their current album VIP is no exception to what I’ve heard from them in the past.  Most of the songs on this album are upbeat and this is illustrated by the very first song “Electric.”  The lyrics are uplifting and very heartfelt.  The group sings beautifully and the songs are so catchy I believe you will be singing them all day long.  

I would highly recommend this album to everyone.  I believe you will enjoy it! 

Please feel free to leave a comment if you’re a fan of Manic Drive or of your opinion of their latest album. 

Happy Listening!



Disclosure of Material Connection:  I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog.  Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.  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.”



Their Name Is Today

Their Name Is Today:  Reclaiming Childhood in a Hostile World

Author:  Johann Christoph Arnold
Publisher:  Plough Publishing House
ISBN #:  0874866308
Pages:  189

Johann Christoph Arnold writes with such passion about how the world treats children poorly and truly brings awareness to this fact.  Mr. Arnold illustrates his opinion on how children should be guided.  He gives examples of how he raised and taught his children which I felt really showed that he was really speaking from a true parental perspective.  Mr. Arnold truly has a heart for children and it is conveyed in how he writes on this topic.

I would recommend this book to individuals who are interested in raising awareness of issues that are affecting the children in our society and reading about a parent’s perspective on raising children.  Mr. Arnold makes many great points about the areas in which children are at risk and I admired his telling of the style of parenting both he and his wife chose in order to foster an environment that put his children first.

Please comment below if you have read this book or having any thoughts on the topic of this book; I would love to read what you think.

Happy Reading! 





Disclosure of Material Connection:  I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog.  Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.  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.”

Sunday, October 5, 2014

Want To Change The World?

Overrated:  Are We More in Love with the Idea of Changing the World Than Actually Changing the World?

Author:  Eugene Cho
Publisher:  David C. Cook
ISBN #:  078141112
Pages:  240

Eugene Cho asks a very pertinent question:  Are we more in love with the idea of changing the world than actually taking the steps to change the world?  I can say that I was very intrigued by this question.  With truth and humor, Eugene Cho challenges his audience to ask the hard questions such as why they want to change the world and what’s their motivation?  He also makes a point in addressing the 140 character dilemma; not everything can be explored or communicated in 140 characters or less.  He challenges us to dig deeper instead of going on the little bits of information we can gather; really learn about your passion.  Mr. Cho calls this book his confession and he does write with sincerity and raw truth, sharing his experiences with all of us.

I can honestly say that after putting down Mr. Cho’s book, I found myself in serious introspection.  Mr. Cho really challenges all of us think before we put anything in action and to seek God in all that we do.

I recommend this book to everyone.  I think you will find yourself to be changed in a great way.
Please comment below if you have read this book; I would love to read your thoughts.

Happy Reading!




Note:  In accordance with the FTCs 16 CFR, Part 255: Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising: I received a copy of this book from Propeller Consulting, LLC in exchange for a honest review.

Sunday, September 14, 2014

Out of the Depths: An Unforgettable WWII Story of Survival, Courage, and the Sinking of The USS Indianapolis

Out of the Depths:  An Unfogettable WWII Story of Survival, Courage, And the Sinking of The USS Indianapolis

By:  Edgar Harrell, USMC with David Harrell

Publisher:  Bethany House Publisher

ISBN #:  9780764212604

Pages: 190   

Out of the Depths is a true story of one Marines experience on the USS Indianapolis.  Edgar Harrell was a Marine stationed on the USS Indianapolis when tragedy struck the vessel.  The enfolding and horrific experience is told with such raw honesty and peace.  As I read Mr. Harrell’s account of the events that unfolded, I could tell that this is a man of great faith and a true believer.  He held on firmly to his faith during a time of death, chaos, anguish, and uncertainty.

Mr. Harrell wrote so honestly that I found myself becoming emotional at some of the experiences he and his comrades went through.  For me this was an unforgettable read.  Mr. Harrell is a man of true faith and is a great example of this.  His story is a testament to the Lord’s faithfulness and love.
I recommend this book to everyone.  Maybe history fans might like this more but I do think that everyone should read Mr. Harrell’s courageous and faithful story; I believe that all who do will be greatly affected by it.  He is a great example of living a faith-filled life.   

Please comment below if you have read this book; I would love to hear your thoughts.

Happy Reading!



Note:  I have received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.

Monday, September 1, 2014

Lost & Found: Finding Hope in the Detours of LIfe

Lost & Found:  Finding Hope in the Detours of Life

By:  Sarah Jakes
Publisher:  Bethany House
ISBN #:  9780764212093
Pages:  234

Ever read a book filled with such honesty and truth that you remembered it long after you finished reading it?  This is one of those books for me.  This is Sarah Jakes' story.  For those unfamiliar with Sarah Jakes, she is the daughter of renowned mega-church pastor, TD Jakes.  Sarah Jakes tells the story of her life as a pastor’s kid and the choices she made while under the scrutiny and pressure of that title. 

Ms. Jakes is very honest in detailing the choices and the results that resulted because of them.  She takes you through her struggles, and heartbreaks with such a voice of maturity.  Ms. Jakes also imparts to her audience of readers the insight she has gained along the way.  This is a true story of hope and strength.

Please leave a comment below if you have read this book and your thoughts about it.

Happy Reading! 


Note:  I have received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.

A Moment In Time

A Moment In Time

By:  Tracie Peterson
Publisher:  Bethany House Publishers
ISBN #:  9780764210594
Pages:  304

A Moment In Time is the second book in Tracie Peterson’s Lone Star Brides series.  The book tells the story of Alice Chesterfield, a shy young woman who is haunted by her past.  The book also tells the continued story of Marty and Jacob Wythe (their story continues from the first book of this series, A Sensible Arrangement).  We find out that Alice worked for Marty as her maid and now both women have become close friends.  The economic crisis forces Marty and Jacob to move from Colorado to Texas, where Marty is reticent to go.  Alice goes with them and finds family, love, and healing.

I truly enjoyed reading this book.  Tracie Peterson writes such beautiful characters and describes great scenery that transport you to a different time and into beloved characters’ lives.  After I finished reading this book, I felt that it was a must to read the first book because I wanted to further appreciate the growth of these characters.  Overall, this book depicts the beauty of the love of a family, friendship, healing, and God’s steadfast love.

Please comment below if you have read this book; I would love to hear your thoughts.


Happy Reading!


Note:  I have received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.

Monday, August 18, 2014

Wherever the River Runs

Wherever the River Runs:  How a Forgotten People Renewed My Hope In The Gospel

By:  Kelly Minter
Publisher:  David C. Cook Publisher
ISBN #:  9781434707352
Pages:  256 pages

When I picked up this book, I didn’t know what to expect.  However, from the very first line, Kelly Minter took me on a journey I won’t soon forget.  Ms. Minter writes of her mission experience to the Amazon and shares the impact it made on her.  I can honestly say that her journey impacted me as well.  Ms. Minter writes vividly and bares her emotions.  A message that Ms. Minter passed on from a friend of hers was “to release worship to the poor,” and this is the mission that was put on Ms. Minter’s heart but it will be emblazoned on others’ hearts as they read her words.

I highly recommend this book; it will take you on quite a journey. 


Feel free to comment below and let me know if you’ve read this book or recommend any other books by Kelly Minter!

Happy Reading!!  



Disclosure of Material Connection:  I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog.  Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.  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.”

Sunday, June 29, 2014

July 4th Greetings!


Hello Everyone!

I was contacted by Mackenzie Dare who is giving away some e-books of her new book, Fire Storm.  Please take the opportunity to stop on by Mackenzie's website mackenziedare.blogspot.com to read the first chapter of her new book!

Happy Reading and Happy July 4th!  






Sunday, May 4, 2014

At Peace in the Storm

At Peace in the Storm:  Experiencing the Savior’s Presence When You Need Him Most

By:  Ken Gire
Publisher:  Bethany House
ISBN #:  9780764208843
Pages:  168

We’ve all been through storms in this life.  Ken Gire, author of At Peace in the Storm: Experiencing the Savior’s Presence When You Need Him Most, writes about these storms and throughout this book encourages us to seek Him in the midst of them.  Mr. Gire writes about the ways in which we can seek His presence in the midst of our darkest hours, such as in nature, His Word, movies, and through others.  Many stories are illustrated throughout depicting others’ experiences in their storms and Biblical and other inspirational quotes. 

I was sincerely comforted by this book and recommend it to everyone.  If you have read this book, please feel free to comment below; I would love to read what your thoughts on this book.


Happy Reading!


Note:  I have received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.

Sunday, April 6, 2014

The Single Woman

The Single Woman

By:  Mandy Hale
Publisher:  Thomas Nelson, Inc.
ISBN #:  9781400322312
Pages:  224

Mandy Hale writes to single women everywhere in this book.  She writes with an honesty that is refreshing and her words are empowering.  Ms. Hale also covers many topics such as loving yourself, loneliness, friendships, and letting go just to name a few.  I found her writing to be inspiring and very uplifting.  Ms. Hale also includes her own thoughts, feelings, and experiences on several of these topics which may make the reader feel that the author is taking this single woman journey with her.  There are also author quotes at the end of some chapters that I found memorable.

I recommend this book to single women of all ages.  I think this book can encourage and inspire many a single woman. 

If you have read this book, please feel free to comment below.  I would love to hear your thoughts!

Happy Reading!


Saturday, April 5, 2014

The Pleasure of His Company

The Pleasure of His Company

By:  Dutch Sheets
Publisher:  Bethany House
ISBN #:  9780764209482
Pages:  270

In his newest book, Dutch Sheets discusses having a relationship with God.  Mr. Sheets speaks of his own experiences and illustrates practical ways in which we can practice being in the presence of God.  He also writes of the circumstances that can get in the way of our relationship with God such as distractions.  The author uses examples of individuals from the Bible to illustrate the importance of a relationship with God.  I enjoyed the depth and the examples of how we can practice a relationship with God.  The prayers at the end of each chapter also served as a point of reflection and are a great example of how we can communicate with God.

I recommend this book to anyone who is interested in having a more intimate relationship with God.  Please feel free to comment below if you have read this book; I would love to read your thoughts about this book and author.


Happy Reading!

Note:  I have received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.

Thursday, April 3, 2014

Direction

Direction

By:  Philip Bailey
Publisher:  Xulon Press
ISBN #:  9781628398472
Pages:  98      
                                     
Direction by Philip Bailey is a true story that illustrates the author’s perseverance, faith, and the love of God in his life.  What really struck me about this book is its honesty.  The author takes you on a journey throughout his life from when he was very young to adulthood.  Philip Bailey does not hold anything back from his experiences to his thoughts and the unveiling of his faith.  His relationship with God is told so realistically that as I read I felt that I was on the journey with him.  It is an inspiration to see the perseverance that Philip Bailey possessed throughout his life.  This story also illustrates the love that God has for us.  Throughout Philip Bailey’s life and struggles it is so prevalent how God is present in each and every moment.  It is a testament to how much God loves us and how we are never truly far from Him. 

I recommend this book highly.  I truly admire Philip Bailey’s honesty in depicting his life-journey and his journey with God.

Please comment below if you have read this book; I would love to hear your thoughts.

Happy Reading!


Note:  I have received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Tuesday, April 1, 2014

Sex and the Single Christian Girl

Sex and the Single Christian Girl

By:  Marian Jordan Ellis
Publisher:  Bethany House
ISBN #:  9780764211232
Pages:  223

Marian Jordan Ellis’s newest book, Sex and the Single Christian Girl is truly inspirational.  From the beginning, Marian Jordan Ellis writes with such honesty and truth.  I felt that every word written came from the author was written in sincerity and were written to impart the wisdom she gained from her own experiences and wanted to speak truth to every single woman’s heart.  One of the points that can be taken away from this book is that purity is not only about the body but it is also about the soul.  Marian Jordan Ellis also points out that every woman should be cherished the way God cherishes her which I felt was one message that was very poignant and relevant for every woman to hear.  There are so many messages in this book that will change a single Christian woman’s life.  Also included, is a small group discussion guide that I find would be helpful in getting single Christian women to reflect more deeply on each chapter.

I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading more books from this author in the future.  Please comment below if you have read this book; I would love to hear your thoughts.

Happy Reading!

Note:  I have received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.

Friday, January 17, 2014

Thursday, January 16, 2014

Saturday, January 11, 2014

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

Tuesday, January 7, 2014

Monday, January 6, 2014

Sunday, January 5, 2014

The Christmas Note

The Christmas Note
Author:  Donna VanLiere
Publisher:  St. Martin’s Press
ISBN #:  9780312658960
Pages:  208

Donna VanLiere writes a story about two individuals who have suffered different losses in their lives.  When you meet Melissa, she is a very bitter, reclusive individual.  From the very beginning, my heart went out to Melissa.  Ms. VanLiere, depicts Melissa’s life in the past so descriptively that as the reader you will understand how Melissa became the individual she is when you meet her.  Gretchen is Melissa’s, new next door neighbor.  Also suffering from somewhat of a loss herself, she soldier’s on and makes a life for herself and her children. 

From the very beginning, Ms. VanLiere unravels a tale so heartbreaking, hopeful, and full of love that the story of these individuals will stay with you.  Ms. VanLiere is an extremely gifted storyteller, writing characters that can’t help but pull at your heartstrings and you can’t help but become attached to.  I recommend reading this book and I look forward to reading other books by this author in the future. 

If you have read this book or any other books by this author that you would recommend, feel free to comment below.


Happy Reading!