Love in the Balance Review

Love in the Balance 

Author:  Regina Jennings

Publisher:  Bethany House Publishers

ISBN #:  9780764209918

Pages:  360

This is the second novel by author, Regina Jennings, whose first novel is Sixty Acres and a Bride.  This current book the author continues the story of Molly Lovelace and Bailey Garner, who appeared in the first novel.  At first introduction, Molly seems like a very selfish and immature character however as the story progresses you’ll find that there is a lot more to Molly than meets the eye.  Bailey has known Molly for many years and dreams of marrying her one day.  Both characters go through struggles which force them to grow on their own and within their own relationship with each other. 

Ms. Jennings tells a story that really can engulf the reader.  Her character’s emotions and struggles really come alive for the reader.  The themes that are so poignantly revealed throughout the characters’ lives are love, faith, and forgiveness.  This is a great story full of characters that show that mistakes will be made in life but the love and grace of God is with us all.

(Feel free to take a look at my review of Sixty Acres and a Bride – review post  dated 1/5/13.)

If you have read this book or the first book of Regina Jennings, feel free to comment below this post.  I would enjoy reading your thoughts about them.

Happy Reading!  


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

A Family-Friendly Christmas Movie!

Coming Home for Christmas (movie review)

This post will be a bit different from past reviews in that it will be a movie review.

Coming Home for Christmas is a story of two estranged sisters, Kate and Melanie, who haven’t spoken in five years.  Their relationship became strained when Kate walked out on Melanie’s wedding day.  Kate is the narrator from the beginning and she explains the relationship between her and her sister.  The parents are very affected by their daughters’ lack of communication and this takes a toll on their own relationship.  Other characters play a role with the family and are also very endearing and just as memorable as the main characters. 

This movie is a great family movie.  It is a story of forgiveness, love, and family.  It’s a feel good movie with a great message. 

Feel free to comment below if you have seen this movie; I would love to know your thoughts.

Happy Viewing!  

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.”

A Great Western Read!

Taming the Wind

By:  Tracie Peterson

Publisher:  Bethany House

ISBN #:  9780764206177

Pages:  324

This is the third book in the Land of the Lone Star series.  The story centers on Carissa Lowe, a widow and mother of a little girl.  Carissa’s past with her abusive husband haunts her along with the tragic events that resulted in the loss of her husband.  The author does a good job in explaining briefly the events that occurred to Carissa (being the fact that Book Two was about these events) which lead to her fearfulness and caution.  Tyler Atherton is very much a part of Carissa’s story.  He saved her life on that tragic day in Carissa’s life and at the beginning of the story it is discovered that Tyler cares very much for Carissa and her daughter. 

The author does a wonderful job describing these two characters and telling their separate yet intertwined journeys.  So many these are reflected in this book such as forgiveness, trust, and love.  I found that it wasn’t necessary to read the first two books in order to read this one.  This was an entertaining read filled with adventure, suspense, and romance.  Overall, this was an enjoyable read.

Feel free to comment below if you have read any books from Tracie Peterson and how you’ve liked them. 

Happy Reading!

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

The Scholar

The Scholar

By:  May Nicole Abbey

Publisher:  River Valley Publishing

Pages:  226

The Scholar written by Christian author sister duo under the name, May Nicole Abbey, is a wonderfully told tale set in Ancient Egypt and is the second book in The Fall Series.  From the start, the story has an air of mystery to it.  The authors write so descriptively that you feel that you are traveling in time with the main character, Serena.  I found the character of Shep to be very endearing.  Shep and Serena’s journey is one that I thoroughly enjoyed reading.  I also found it very interesting how Serena’s interaction with the other characters influenced her growth throughout the story. 

If you enjoy reading historical romances this book is one I would recommend.  This story will transport you to a different time with memorable characters.

Please comment below if you enjoy reading historical romances or if you have read any titles from this author (let me know if there are any you recommend).

Happy Reading!

Note:  I have received this book from Sage Blog Tours in exchange for an honest review.

Book Giveaway!!

FlyByPromotions is giving away a copy of Can’t Wait Willow by Christy Ziglar! (My review of this book first appeared on this blog on October 30, 2013 at this link: http://faithfulbookcorner.blogspot.com/2013/10/a-new-childrens-read.html).

 Here are the rules to enter this giveaway:
 1. Comment below this post if you are interested in receiving a copy of this book.
 2. All entrants should be 18+ years old.
 3. This giveaway is open to anyone in the United States and Canada.
 4. The giveaway will run from November 13, 2013 and will end on November 18, 2013 at 11:59pm.
 5. When the winner is chosen it will be announced on this blog and the winner will be emailed for their address. Please check your email on November 19, 2013 to see if you have won. The winner will only have 48 hours from the closing of the giveaway to respond. If a response is not received another winner will be chosen.

 Happy Reading Everyone!

 Terms & Conditions: Giveaway ends November 18, 2013 at 11:59pm. Open to Residents of the US and Canada only. Winner will be selected and be notified by email as well as posted on the blog. Winner will have 48 hours to respond before a new winner is selected. Please note that Faithful Book Corner is not responsible for sponsors that do not fulfill their prizes. I have represented each sponsor with the expectation they will fulfill their prize and in a timely manner. I will contact FlyByPromotion with the address of the winner. FlyByPromotion will be shipping the book to you directly. I will make every effort to assist you obtaining your prize. If there is an issue with a sponsor, please notify the blog you won a prize from within 30 days for assistance, after that we may be unable to assist you. The product provided for the review was free of charge from the company. The product offered for the giveaway is free of charge, no purchase necessary. My opinions are my own and were not influenced by any form of compensation. Facebook, Twitter and Google+ are in no way associated with this giveaway. I do not share or sell information and will use any information only for the purpose of contacting the winner and supplying FlyByPromotion with the winner's address for prize receipt.

Prophetic Ministry

The Lifestyle of a Prophet

By:  James W. Goll

Publisher:  Chosen

ISBN #:  9780800795368

Pages:  277

James W. Goll writes about the heart of a prophet in his book, The Lifestyle of a Prophet.  He makes many points about the prophetic calling and takes an in-depth look into the lifestyle that he illustrates in three categories:  intimacy, wisdom, and revelation.  The author also designed this book as a 21 day journey designed to draw the reader closer to God.  At the end of each chapter, questions and a prayer are featured in order for the reader to reflect on their relationship with God.

I would recommend this book to anyone interested in knowing more about the prophetic calling and anyone who is involved in prophetic ministry as it seems this book is geared towards those individuals with experience in this type of ministry.  The author also illustrates stories of his experiences in the prophetic ministry.  I found this read to be very insightful about the prophetic ministry and look forward to reading other works by this author.

Please comment below if you have read any books by this author or are interested in the topic of prophetic ministry; I would love to read your thoughts.

Happy Reading!  J

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

A New Children's Read!

Can’t Wait Willow

By:  Christy Ziglar

Illustrations By:  Luanne Marten

Publisher:  Ideals Children’s Books

ISBN #:  9780824956486

Pages:  32

This is a great story for children about making good decisions.  This tale will take your child through the adventurous day of Willow and all of the choices that she had to make in that day.  I found this story to be a very good and fun learning tool for children ages 5-8 years old on how to make good decisions.  The author, Christy Ziglar, notes a statement in the beginning of the book, ‘Sometimes you have to say no to the good to say yes to the best,’ a quote by Zig Ziglar that really sets the tone for the entire story. 

Christy Ziglar makes this an interactive read for children as well as creates a character that is a joy to follow throughout the story.  The illustrations are also very vibrant, colorful, and detailed.  Needless to say, I would recommend this book to every parent who has a child from the ages of 5-8.  This is a great read that I think children would enjoy reading time and time again.

Leave a comment below with your thoughts of this book; I would love to read them.

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.”

Exciting News!

FlyByPromotions is giving away a copy of One Way Love by Tullian Tchividjian! Here are the rules to enter this giveaway: 1. Please fill out the Rafflecopter form below. 2. All entrants should be 18+ years old. 3. This giveaway is open to anyone in the United States and Canada. 4. The giveaway will run from October 21, 2013 and will end on October 24, 2013. 5. When the winner is chosen it will be announced on this blog and the winner will be emailed. Please check your email on October 25, 2013 to see if you have won. The winner will only have 48 hours from the closing of the giveaway to respond. If a response is not received another winner will be chosen. a Rafflecopter giveaway Good Luck and Happy Reading!

One Way Love:  Inexhaustible Grace For An Exhausted World

By:  Tullian Tchividjian

Publisher:  David C. Cook

ISBN #:  9780781406901

Pages:  236

What is grace?  Tullian Tchividjian gives his views on grace and how the world needs to be reintroduced to grace.  Mr. Tchividjian makes the point that this world is driven by performance.  Performance can lead to perfectionistic behavior in us.  He points out that the focus should be on God and less on our own circumstances.  Tchividjian’s views are accompanied by personal insights and stories that really give understanding to the reader.  I can say that I found my eyes opened by his view of grace.

This is the first book I have read from this author and I would greatly recommend this to everyone.  I believe this book will give greater understanding to grace and how it affects us all.  This is a great and encouraging read and I look forward to reading other books from this author. 

Let me know if you have read this book or find the subject of this book interesting.  I would love to read your thoughts.

Happy Reading!  J

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.”

Happy Book Lover's Day!

Illustration by Ghergich & Co.

Happy Book Lover's Day Everyone! In honor of today, Ghergich & Co. sent me a link to this beautiful illustration above. If you would like to feature this illustration on your blog or website in honor of today here is the link: http://ghergich.com/illustrations/book-lovers-day/. Many thanks to Ghergich & Co. for sharing this beautiful illustration with me. Happy Reading! Mel

July 25, 2013 Devotional

July 24, 2013 Devotional

July 23, 2013 Devotional

July 22, 2013 Devotional

July 17, 2013 Devotional

7/1/13 Devotional

Let It Go

Let It Go:  How to Stop Running the Show and Start Walking in Faith

By:  Karen Ehman

Publisher:  Zondervan

ISBN #:  031033392X

Pages:  222

Have you ever had a difficult time letting something go?  Did that something just nag at you over and over just tempting you to take charge?  With our many responsibilities and pressures in any given day letting go just doesn’t seem possible and definitely not easy to do.  Karen Ehman addresses the topic of controlling every little thing in our lives and introduces ways in which we can enjoy our lives and not turn into ‘control freaks’ in this book.

Mrs. Ehman points out ways in which we can change controlling behavior within our relationships and other areas of our lives.  She also helps the reader with quizzes at the end of some chapters that are designed to help the reader identify areas in which they may exude controlling style behavior.   This author writes with clarity and silly humor.  I found it helpful that she shared her own struggles with controlling behavior and her ‘Aha!’ moments of self-realization on her own journey to changing her controlling habits, which are encouraging to the reader. 

Overall, I recommend this book.  Whether or not controlling behavior pertains to you, I found that this read was insightful. 

Feel free to comment below if you’ve read this book or want to share your thoughts; I would love to read them.

Happy Reading!  J

Facing Challenges

10 Secrets To Life’s Biggest Challenges:  How You Can Prepare For a Better Tomorrow
By:  Peter Lord with Kent Crockett

Publisher:  Chosen Books

ISBN #:  0800795399

Pages:  201

We all face challenges and one of the tricky things when facing these challenges is how to handle them in a God-ordained way?  Peter Lord identifies ten challenges that individuals can experience and the ways in which we can respond to these challenges.  The ten challenges addressed in this book are:  making decisions, overcoming temptation, developing relationships, resolving conflicts, healing hurts, adjusting your attitudes, managing money, trusting through trials, submitting to authority, and preparing for death. 

Each challenge is well-explained and gives insight into how these challenges impact our lives.  The challenge sections each feature Scripture that aid in solidifying the explanation of how to handle each challenge.  Also included are discussion questions at the end of each challenge that really brings home the message of each chapter.  These questions also serve as a good way to self-reflect on these areas in your own life.

Overall, I recommend this book highly.  The challenges addressed in this book are very relevant and can aid everyone.  This book would also make a great tool for a bible study group as well. 

Feel free to comment below if you find this book interesting or if you have read this book.  I would love to hear your thoughts!

Happy Reading!  J

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

Reading Through the Bible in a Year

A Woman’s Guide to Reading the Bible in a Year:  A Life-Changing Journey Into the Heart of God

By:  Diane Stortz

Publisher:  Bethany House Publishers

ISBN #:  0764210734 

Pages:  144

Have you ever tried to read through the entire Bible in a year?  Have you ever used a Bible reading plan to guide you and found that you still could not read through the entire Bible?  I have been there so when I saw Diane Stortz’s book, A Woman’s Guide to Reading the Bible in a Year, I was really interested in finding out if maybe this time there was a guide out there that would get me through the entire Book.  And I have to say that Mrs. Stortz’s guide is not only feasible but it really allows you to read and reflect on the Scriptures you are reading.

Mrs. Stortz divides the readings into 52 weeks and gives a little background on each Scripture subject for the week.  After each reading, there are three questions that are designed to get you to reflect on the Scriptures you just read.  At the end of the book, there are resources for the reader to use as she journeys through the Bible.  I found this section helpful in ascertaining additional materials to help me understand Scripture.  There is also a reading plan checklist at the end of the book for you to keep track.

In sum, I recommend this Bible reading guide to every woman.  If you want to read through the Bible this year this is a simple plan that really emphasizes the reflection and understanding of the Word.

What has your experience been with Bible reading plans?  Feel free to let me know your experiences in the comments below.

Happy Reading!  J

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

Lauren Scruggs: A Story of Faith, Hope, and Strength

Still Lolo:  A Spinning Propeller, a Horrific Accident, and a Family’s Journey of Hope

By:  Lauren Scruggs

Publisher:  Tyndale House Publishers

ISBN #:  1414376693

Pages:  256

In December 2011, a story hit the news media about a young woman, who was seriously injured in a plane propeller accident.  This book tells Lauren’s story not only from her perspective but also from her parents and her sister, Brittany.  I found myself engrossed in Lauren’s story from page one.  Lauren tells her story with honesty and courage as if she is only speaking with you.  Lauren not only speaks about the accident and her feelings but she also gives us a look into her past and shares her belief and faith in the Lord that has given her the strength and perseverance to make it through various events in her life.    

Other chapters within the book are also written from the perspective of her sister, Brittany and her parents, Cheryl and Jeff Scruggs.  Lauren’s parents and sister write of their own worries and struggles with the accident and Lauren’s recovery, however what really shines through is this family’s faith and strength in the midst of this life-changing event. 

Overall, I would definitely recommend this book. It is well-written featuring such honesty and really showcases a message of hope and encouragement that everyone needs to read.  Lauren’s story is truly inspiring and is such a powerful illustration about how God uses us to positively impact others.

Feel free to comment below if you have read this book or are interested in this book.  I would love to hear from you! 

Happy Reading!  J

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

Your Greater Journey

Greater:  Dream Bigger, Start Smaller, Ignite God’s Vision for Your Life.

By:  Steven Furtick

Publisher:  Multnomah Books

ISBN #:  160142325X

Pages:  224

This book is about how God wants us to pursue the Greater life and God-given dreams He has called us to.  Through the story of the Old Testament prophet Elisha, Pastor Furtick explores how Elisha’s faith in God enabled him to not only fulfill the work that God wanted him to do but also created the man God wanted Elisha to be.  Through the story of Elisha it is illustrated how God can do so much with us despite that we may not believe so.  Pastor Furtick also speaks of the moments on the journey where we can lose our momentum and passion and how God is concerned with every detail of our lives and wants to give our momentum back to us.  I thought this served as such a poignant reminder that He is always with us on the Greater journey He has for us.

This book is an encouraging and recommended read.  Pastor Furtick brings a message that is well-written and relevant.  Elisha’s story really illustrates how God can work in our lives to make us greater for His kingdom and reveals who we are in Him.  Another bonus is the discussion questions in the back, which allow for reflection and discussion with others.

If you have read this book or just want to leave a comment feel free to leave one below.  I would love to hear what you think of this book!  Many blessings to all on your Greater journeys!

Happy Reading!  J

Unglued Moments

Unglued:  Making Wise Choices in the Midst of Raw Emotions

By:  Lysa TerKeurst

Publisher:  Zondervan Publishing

ISBN #:  0310332796

Pages:  192

I picked up this book as a part of a group Bible Study I was a part of.  This is the second book I have read from this author and I will say that Mrs. TerKeurst does not disappoint.  The subject of this book surrounds the issue of our emotions and how these emotions can control us.  I know every woman can relate to this subject.  Who hasn’t had an unglued moment where your raw emotions are set upon the world around you?

Lysa TerKeurst writes with such honesty about the unglued moments of our lives and how we can turn those moments around.  She writes about making ‘imperfect progress’ in how we deal with our raw emotions and gives hope that our reactions can improve.  To help us on the journey to ‘imperfect progress’, Lysa outlines five steps that will aid in improving our unglued emotions and reactions.  Also, there is a section that explores the type of reactor you are: an ‘Exploder or a Stuffer’.

This book is an excellent and insightful read.  Let me know if you have read this book; I would love to know what your thoughts are.

Happy Reading!  J

The Journey to Love

Sixty Acres and A Bride

By:  Regina Jennings

Publisher:  Bethany House Publishers

ISBN #: 0764209906

Pages:  368

From the start, you will see this story is akin to the story of Ruth in the Bible. 

The story surrounds a young, recently widowed woman named Rosa.  She lives with her mother-in-law Louise who also lost her husband in the same tragedy that took Rosa’s husband.  Both women make a move back to Louise’s hometown where hardship awaits both of them as well as a wonderful group of family members.

Within the family, the reader will be introduced to Weston, the modern day Boaz.  He is the protector of the family and is also nursing tragedy and loss of his own.  Weston is drawn to Rosa from their first meeting but he is reticent to give in.  However, God has a very different plan for them both.

I enjoyed this book immensely from start to finish!  The characters were very well written that it seemed that they came off the page.  You will take a journey through their moments of struggle, loss, and joys.  This is the debut novel for Regina Jennings and I can definitely say that I am looking forward to reading further books from this author in the future!

Feel free to comment below if you have read this book; I would love to know your thoughts.

Happy Reading!  J

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

Happy 2013!!

Happy New Year, Readers! 

After quite a bit of an absence I’m back and will be posting some reviews really soon!

This year I will be making some changes to the blog and some surprises will be on the way!  Please follow or subscribe to get up to the minute book reviews. 

Wishing all of you many blessings in 2013!

Happy Reading!  J