Though Waters Roar ~ by Lynn Austin

Though Waters Roar is the latest book by five-time Christy Award winning novelist, Lynn Austin. It is a thought-provoking story of four generations of women who have fought for social-injustice and making their mark in the world. The story is entertaining, full of warmth and humor, as well as drama and inustice, while still prompting the reader to examine their own values and whether they would be willing to make a stand to do what they believe is right, even if it means public ridicule, arrest or even death. The book clearly shows that strength, conviction and trust in God can rise up in any of us, and lead us to do the right thing, if only we are willing. It is also a lesson in being your own person, the person God created you to be, and allowing Him to lead you to the purpose he designed you for. This was a very good read and I would recommend it to anyone, particularly someone who is interested in the events that have shaped our nation.

This book was provided to me for review by Bethany House Publishers.

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Though Waters Roar
By Lynn Austin

Harriet Sherwood longs to follow in her grandmother's footsteps as a champion for social justice, but Harriet didn't plan on ending up incarcerated. She spends her jail time recalling the histories of her great-grandmother Hannah, Grandma Bebe and her mother, Lucy, each of whom faced struggles and spiritual questions as they found ways to fight: Hannah participated in the Underground Railroad, Bebe fought demon rum, and Lucy fought for a woman's right to vote. Austin weaves their stories through Harriet's memories, creating well-honed characters before finally bringing Harriet to a place of understanding.

In a stirring tale reminiscent of Eve's Daughter's, Lynn Austin spins a compelling generational tale of finding the courage to live a legacy.

Black-Out ~ by Jason Elam

Black-Out is the 3rd and latest novel from the Riley Covington Series, written by Jason Elam and Steve Yohn. It is an action thriller, with Special Ops, international intrigue and even some football thrown in. This was the first book that I read from this series, and while it is clear that there had been previous books, reading them was not necessary to follow what was happening in this book. It was filled with drama, suspense, action and just a touch of romance. It drew me in immediately and kept me turning pages. The characters were very interesting and the faith element was strong, while not the least bit preachy. This book, and I’m sure, whole series, would be a great one for the guys to read, and I’m guessing for lots of the girls too! I truly enjoyed it and would like to read the other books in this series.

This book was provided to me for review by Tyndale House Publishers.

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Black-Out
Jason Elam and Steve Yohn

Riley Covington is still reeling from his father’s brutal murder when he learns he’s been traded. Meanwhile, the counterterrorism division has detected a plot to detonate electromagnetic pulse bombs that could leave the U.S. without power, communications, and transportation—right down to dropping planes out of the sky. CTD scrambles to stop the attacks, but they run out of time. Amid the fallout, Riley, Scott, Skeeter, and CTD must regroup to make sure the second bomb doesn’t reach its destination.

Regret-Free Living ~ by Stephen Arterburn

Leading Christian counselor Stephen Arterburn has a great new book out. Is it possible to live regret free in our relationships? In his book Regret-Free Living, Arterburn great wisdom and advice for just that. He thoroughly examines relationships, and all aspects of relationships, from unhealthy and broken, to accepting responsibility, knowing when to leave or how to work through and restoring warmth, love and trust. There are many great nuggets of wisdom contained herein. It will help you examine the various relationships in your own life and how to deal with them. This is a book that should be in every household.

This book was provided to me for review by Bethany House Publishers.

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Regret-Free Living
Hope for Past Mistakes and Freedom from Unhealthy Patterns
By Stephen Arterburn
With John Shore

"If you’re always dragging yourself down with the past, how is God going to lift you up in the future?"

Overcoming a past riddled with regret is not easy. Consequently, many people live unfulfilled lives, haunted by what ifs and if onlys.

With grace and transparency, bestselling author and Christian counselor Stephen Arterburn shows you he's been there--and how you can live beyond your regrets and allow God to use them.

By shining a bright light onto the path of what is and what is to be, Arterburn invites you to rid yourself of regrets and finally discover true emotional and spiritual freedom.

40 Loaves ~ by C.D. Baker

The start of a new year brings about many changes. For many of us, that includes looking for a new devotional. 40 Loaves by C. D. Baker is one you may want to take a serious look at. It is a small book, with only 40 devotions in it, but don’t let the size fool you. It is powerful. The entire books is based on questions – questions that many of us think, but certainly don’t ask out loud (because good Christians don’t). The only way we can get answers to our questions, and by the way, grow in wisdom, is by asking them. Searching out the answers will bring enlightenment and quite naturally, we will grow spiritually when we do so. God is much bigger than we can even comprehend, He is certainly big enough to shine his light on the things that we question.

Some of the questions asked, and answered, are: Why do I get angry with God, why don’t I have more faith, why is loving others so hard for me, why does God seem silent in my life, why do I only pray in emergencies, why are some Christians so hard for me to like, why don’t I feel safe at church, why do I resent authority, and many more.

This book will cause you to admit the questions you really try to avoid and examine your heart. It will also help you to grow in your walk with Christ and deepen your relationship with Him. It would make a great gift too, for anyone you know that has questions or is troubled or confused about their own relationship with God. I highly recommend it!

This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

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40 Loaves
Breaking Bread with Our Father Each Day
By C. D. Baker

Why don’t I have more faith?
Why am I so bored with Jesus?
Why don’t I feel connected at church?

These are the types of questions the religious establishment often makes it uncomfortable, if not impossible, to ask. And by asking them, C. David Baker, author of 40 Loaves: Breaking Bread with Our Father Each Day hopes to start a conversation in people’s hearts, then with others, and ultimately with God. Many circles of Christianity have led us to believe that certainty and confidence are the proof of true spirituality; questions are discouraged.

But Jesus offered his followers an ongoing conversation—a relationship built around a free, open-ended discussion. Questions were encouraged. They were often impertinent, sometimes alarming, and the religious establishment was distinctly uncomfortable with them … just as it is today.

“40 Loaves is something of a collection of the kinds of questions I felt finally free to ask of myself and of my relationship with Christ,” says Baker. “It’s my belief that these questions are shared by many others who long for the freedom to simply ask them out loud. I hope this book becomes a platform that frees others to search their hearts more deeply and be fed with the Bread of life.”

Each “loaf” here is a big question that stimulates discussion, investigation, and contemplation; it will take hours—or days—to digest. Conversational, inviting, disarming, and real, 40 Loaves nourishes self-examination and offers validation for those who feel discouraged, guilty, or even shamed when the realities of their lives don’t match up with the ideals of the Christian establishment.


Author Bio:
C. David Baker founded an award-winning business before redirecting his career to write full-time from his small farm in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. He is the author of eight books, including six novels, one of which was nominated for a Christy Award. He has contributed articles to the Christian History Institute’s international publication Glimpses, and to Christian Singles magazine. Baker has a Master’s degree in theological studies from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland.

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To get more information about 40 Loaves, including online purchase options, simply visit
http://www.randomhouse.com/catalog/display.pperl?isbn=9780307444905

The Rose Legacy ~ by Kristen Heitzmann

Wow! The Rose Legacy by Kristen Heitzmann is without a doubt one of my favorite books this year. Though it starts out just a tad slow, it quickly becomes a page turner. It’s a story that is riveting and dramatic, full of twists and turns, with engaging, suspense-filled tension, which brilliantly blends the present (though historical) with the past in a sweeping, sensational conclusion that leaves you wanting more. Much more. The characters have depth and are realistically flawed. Heitzmann superbly blurs the lines of right and wrong, and clearly shows us that appearances can be deceiving. Who can be trusted? Who will deceive?

This is the first book in the Diamonds of the Rockies Series. I personally cannot wait to read book #2. For anyone who enjoys historical fiction – especially about the Great American West, this book will captivate. For anyone looking for a book that is a cut above, this book will satisfy. And for anyone who appreciates masterful storytelling, The Rose Legacy is for you!

This book was provided to me for review by Bethany House Publishers.

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The Rose Legacy
Diamonds of the Rockies Series ~ Book 1
By Kristen Heitzmann

Fleeing her idyllic home in Sonoma, California, Carina Maria DiGratia journeys to the mining town of Crystal, Colorado. Clinging to hopes of a new life, she finds reality has a harsh welcome for her. Overrun with men seeking their fortune and women bound by circumstance, the town hosts both dreams and nightmares, with little surety for tomorrow. But at least here Carina is far from the betrayal that still pierces her heart.

Early on, two men vie for her trust, but neither is what he seems. Will Carina discern the truth and confront the turmoil hidden in her own heart in time to prevent tragedy?

The Silent Gift ~ Michael Landon Jr.

This was a difficult book for me, as a mother, to read. In The Silent Gift, Michael Landon Jr. and Cindy Kelly have written a moving book that is both heartbreaking and heartwarming. Set in the time of the Great Depression of the 1930’s, it’s a painful reminder of how bad things once were for children who weren’t “normal” and the parents who didn’t want to merely institutionalize them.

From beginning to end, the story is gripping, emotionally charged, and dramatic. If you’re looking for an easy, lighthearted read, The Silent Gift is not for you. But if you’re looking for a book with depth and heart, filled with twists and turns, that thoroughly captivates you, then The Silent Gift is definitely the one for you. I highly recommend it!

This book was provided to me for review by Bethany House Publishers.

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The Silent Gift
By Michael Landon Jr. & Cindy Kelly

The 1930s were a decade of enormous uncertainty--for the world, for America, and in particular for one lonely, struggling mother and her disabled son. Their story is one of love and enormous sacrifices in the face of circumstances horrendous beyond belief. When her husband leaves her for someone whose time isn't wrapped up in a silent, handicapped kid, Mary and little Jack are out on their own in a world that has no room for the poor and disabled. Especially not at a time when most Americans are simply trying to survive their economic woes and job losses. But then arrives The Gift...where has it come from, and why? How can a young boy who can neither hear nor speak provide comfort, direction, and sometimes challenges to seekers who learn of the special ability? Whatever the source, its presence brings a single shaft of light and hope to Mary and her beloved Jack. Will it be enough?

Give This Christmas Away ~ Matthew West

What a great way to embrace the Season of Christmas! Give This Christmas Away is a fantastic little book showing how to be a true giver at Christmas-time, written by Christian music artist Matthew West. It is filled with 101 ideas of how to give in meaningful, yet simple and inexpensive, ways to others and keep the true Spirit of Christmas, which is Christ, alive in our hearts and in our thoughts. There are 101 corresponding Scriptures to go with each idea. This little book is a powerful resource for individuals and families to have and use during the Christmas Season and all throughout the year. It will motivate and inspire children and adults alike!


This book was provided to me for review by Tyndale House Publishers.

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Give This Christmas Away (101 Simple & Thoughtful Ways to . . .)
Matthew West

“What if December looked different this year?” Featured on the new Veggie Tales Christmas DVD (Saint Nicholas: A Story of Joyful Giving), the forthcoming single “Give This Christmas Away” is a duet between Matthew West and Amy Grant destined to become a holiday classic. Now, in this tie-in book, Matthew West shares 101 inspiring ways for you, your family, and your church to give this Christmas away. Mirroring Jesus’ message of love for the unloveable and compassion for the broken, this book will share practical ideas and inspiring stories of giving that will help you give the message of the ultimate Christmas gift this year—Jesus. Includes 101 Scriptures from the New Living Translation.

NKJV Greatest Stories of the Bible

What a fantastic book! I’ve just received the NKJV Greatest Stories of the Bible from Thomas Nelson Publishers, and it is awesome! I must say I was completely blown away by it! It is a wonderful collection of stories from the Bible, including both Old and New Testaments (however it is not the actual Bible), using the New King James Version. The hard cover is absolutely stunning, made to look like an heirloom you might find passed down from generation to generation, or in an antique book store. The pages are sturdy and attractive. There is also a bookmark ribbon to help mark your place.

There are 250 Bible stories told, from Genesis through Revelation. The Table of Contents itself is eight pages long and includes the story title, as well as the Scripture reference. This book would make either a great devotional or resource for teaching. It would be completely appropriate for adults as well as children. It would make a wonderful addition to any personal library. I am particularly excited about how easy it is for parents to share with their children in a family devotional time format.

This book was provided to me for review by Thomas Nelson Publishers.

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Greatest Stories of the Bible
NKJV

A storybook accounting of the most memorable people and remarkable events of the Bible.

Stretching across both the Old and New Testaments, this heirloom edition provides readers with the tales of the Bible in an easy-to-navigate, storybook format. From the creation of the universe to Jesus’ promise to return to Earth again, the NKJV Greatest Stories of the Bible recounts more than two hundred fifty of the most valuable lessons and triumphs from the most memorable people of the Bible. Enjoy reading these stories again and again and gain new insight into their meanings.

Love Finds You in Lonesome Prairie Montana ~ by Tricia Goyer

What a delightful read! Love Finds You in Lonesome Prairie Montana is the latest book in the Love Finds You series. It is co-written by Tricia Goyer and Ocieanna Fleiss, and they did a wonderful job on it! There was simply nothing about this book that I didn’t enjoy, from the cast of characters, to the mix of drama and comedy, to the picturesque and perhaps a bit lonely setting. It speaks to the heart, especially to the very real longing for Home that we all have. There is an important message about trusting God, but it is never preachy. It flowed well, was very entertaining and a great way to spend my day. If you enjoy lighthearted inspirational fiction that will warm your heart, this is the book for you!

This book was provided for review by the Litfuse Publicity Group.

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Love Finds You in Lonesome Prairie Montana
By Tricia Goyer & Ocienna Fleiss

Julia Cavanaugh has never left New York City. But in 1890, the young woman must head west to ensure that the orphans under her care are settled into good families. After her final stop in Montana, she plans to head straight back east. But upon arriving in the remote town of Lonesome Prairie, Julia learns to her horror that she is also supposed to be delivered into the hands of an uncouth miner who carries a bill of purchase for his new bride. She turns to a respected circuit preacher to protect her from a forced marriage but with no return fare and few friends, Julia’s options are bleak. What is God’s plan for her in the middle of the vast Montana prairie?


Author Bios:
Tricia Goyer is the author of several books, including Night Song and Dawn of a Thousand Nights, both past winners of the ACFW's Book of the Year Award for Long Historical Romance. Goyer lives with her family in Montana. To find out more visit her website: http://www.triciagoyer.com/

Ocieanna Fleiss is a published writer and has edited six of Tricia Goyer's historical novels. She lives with her husband and their four children in the Seattle area. Connect with Ocieanna on Facebook!

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To get more information about Love Finds You in Lonesome Prairie Montana, including online purchase options, simply visit http://www.triciagoyer.com/store.html?n=1

Treasured ~ God Gave Us Love ~ God Gave Us Christmas Book Reviews

In Treasured, author Leigh McLeroy clearly shows us how much God loves and cares for us – His children. Most of us tend to keep odd little items that may not be considered valuable to others, but they have tremendous worth to us – little keepsakes and trinkets that remind us of people, places and memories that are a treasure to us. It would appear that God does too! Treasured is filled with stories from both the Bible and from Leigh McLeroy’s life. It was a warm, insightful and thought-provoking read.


God Gave Us Love, by Lisa Tawn Bergren is a wonderful book for little ones that talks about the love of God. The illustrations are beautiful and the dialog between Little Cub and Grampa Bear is endearing. It is a sweet story and will appeal to young children, while giving them a great lesson about God’s love for us and our love for each other.

God Gave Us Christmas is another book by Lisa Tawn Bergren that is geared toward young children and teaching a lesson. It begins with the question “Mama, who ‘vented Christmas?’ by Little Cub to Mama Bear, which is a question many parents get at some point. Mama Bear and Little Cub then go on a journey to find the way God shows Himself to us, and see how God gave us Christmas. Once again, the illustrations are beautiful, the story is enchanting and it will make a great addition to your Christmas story book collections – especially for the little ones.


These books were provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

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Treasured: Cigar boxes. Refrigerator doors. Scrapbooks and sock drawers and top shelves. These are the places we store our treasures–the keepsakes that tell the story of whom and what we’ve loved, how we’ve lived, and what matters most to us.

God is a collector, too, whose treasures are tucked securely into the pages of his book: a golden bell here, an olive leaf there, a scarlet thread, a blood-stained cloth, a few grains of barley. Each of these saved artifacts reveals a facet of his heart and tells the story of a Father whose most precious possession is…us.

In Treasured, Leigh McLeroy considers tangible reminders of God’s active presence and guides us in discovering evidence in our own lives of his attentive love.

God Gave Us Love: As Little Cub and Grampa Bear’s fishing adventure is interrupted by mischievous otters, the young polar bear begins to question why we must love others… even the seemingly unlovable. In answering her questions, Grampa Bear gives tender explanations that teach Little Cub about the different kinds of love that is shared between families, friends, and mamas and papas. Grampa explains that all these kinds of love come from God and that it is important to love others because…“Any time we show love, Little Cub, we’re sharing a bit of his love.”

This sweet tale will warm the hearts of young children as they learn about all the different sorts of love, while the gentle explanations of each provide a valuable opportunity to encourage children to share with others a “God-sized love.”

God Gave Us Christmas: As Little Cub and her family prepare to celebrate the most special day of the year, the curious young polar bear begins to wonder… “Who invented Christmas?” Mama’s answer only leads to more questions like “Is God more important than Santa?” So she and Little Cub head off on a polar expedition to find God and to see how he gave them Christmas. Along the way, they find signs that God is at work all around them. Through Mama’s gentle guidance, Little Cub learns about the very first Christmas and discovers that… Jesus is the best present of all.

This enchanting tale provides the perfect opportunity to help young children celebrate the true meaning of Christmas and to discover how very much God loves them.

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Author Bios:
Leigh McLeroy is the author of The Beautiful Ache and The Sacred Ordinary. An avid collector and recorder of everyday moments, words, and wonders, Leigh’s keen eye for God’s presence in ordinary life infuses her writing and living with a deep, insistent joy. A frequent conference and event speaker, the author makes her home in Houston, Texas, and posts often on http://www.leighmcleroy.com/ and http://www.wednesdaywords.com/.

Lisa Tawn Bergren is the award-winning author of nearly thirty titles, totaling more than 1.5 million books in print. She writes in a broad range of genres, from adult fiction to devotional. God Gave Us Love follows in Lisa’s classic tradition of the best-selling God Gave Us You. She lives in Colorado, with her husband, Tim, and their children, Olivia, Emma, and Jack.