Through the Shadows by Karen Barnett - REVIEWED

About the book: 

Through the Shadows (Abingdon, May 2016)

As San Francisco rises from the ashes, an age-old battle looms between corruption and the promise of new beginnings.

The devastating earthquake is just two years past, but the city of San Francisco is still trying to recover. Destruction of this magnitude is not so easy to overcome---and neither are the past regrets shadowing Elizabeth King's hopeful future.

Hoping to right her wrongs, Elizabeth dedicates herself to helping girls rescued from slavery in Chinatown brothels, even if it means putting her own life at risk to sneak through the gloomy alleys and rooftops where dangers lurk.

Putting her life on the line for a worthy cause is admirable. But opening her heart is even more terrifying. So when Elizabeth meets attorney, Charles McKinley---a man who dreams of reforming San Francisco's crooked politics---Elizabeth begins to doubt: Can she maintain her pretense and hide her past? Or will her secret jeopardize both their futures?

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My Thoughts:

“If God had given her the gift of freedom, why did she live under the shadows of the past?” (p.202)

Often times, as I read fiction, God will place a character in my path that is dealing with a similar struggle. Elizabeth King is just such a character, and the question above is a very succinct summation of the trouble that seems to dog her every step.  She is unable to forgive herself for past indiscretions, and because of that, is unable to accept God’s forgiveness, grace and mercy.

Charles McKinley is facing a different type of situation all together, but the results are the same.  He is trying to please others because he feels beholden to them for their help in some way.  He is unable to stand up for himself in the shadow of their control, and he finds himself facing decisions that make him very uncomfortable.

Charles and Elizabeth are able to find their way into each other’s worlds despite some pretty daunting odds.  I was intrigued to find, in the course of this novel, that human trafficking  of young girls has a  long and disturbing history in this country.  To find that the Mission in this novel is based on a real mission and the life of a real missionary was a powerful revelation!

The fact that this was a real battle that was chosen for these fictional characters makes the conclusions of their story both realistic and powerful as it reflects the transforming power of God’s grace upon the lives that it touches.  This is truly a unique and powerful combination of history, fiction and God’s grace! I am all too happy to recommend this novel to everyone!! 

About the Author:

Karen Barnett is the author of Beyond the Ashes, Out of the Ruins, and Mistaken. Named the 2013 Writer of Promise by Oregon Christian Writers, Karen lives in Albany, Oregon, with her husband and two kids. When she's not writing novels, she loves speaking at women's events, libraries, and book clubs.

Worth Living how God's wild love for you makes you worthy by Mary DeMuth - REVIEWED

About the Book:
Start living the confident, joyful life you were made for
In a world of comparison and competition, it's hard to remember that our true worth lies not in our circumstances, our achievements, or our failures. It doesn't even lie in how we react to those things. Our worth lies in God's unending love for us.

With deep compassion, Mary DeMuth dares you to believe that the God who started a good work in you is faithful to bring it to glorious completion. That the God who redeems you also loves you--right now and always--with a beautiful love. That you are a daughter of the King, always welcomed in his presence.

Discover here a future of strength and security, knowing that you are wildly loved and destined to have a great impact on the world around you.

My Thoughts:

“The problem comes when we prefer the so-called comfort of a barred life to the open air of freedom.” (p.66)

Guess what?  That one sentence in this glorious, honest, God-loving, identity defining book sort of nailed me to the floor.  I’ve been fighting to break free from this familiar prison of guilt, shame and unworthiness for a very long time!  This book has given me the courage to break free from that bondage and step into the light of God’s wild-about-me love and begin walking in His redemptive freedom!!!   This is a divine appointment in my life, and I will sing  praises to God for a long time, thanking Him for guiding Mary to write this book!!

All of us, no matter where we come from, what we’ve been blessed with, or what life seems to have denied us, we all must learn to believe the truth of God’s Word rather than the lies of the enemy.  Many of us believe the lies of the enemy and walk in unworthiness from a very young age because of life-events or circumstances beyond our control.  Mary encourages all of us to recognize the lie and replace it with the truth of God’s Word.

Each chapter states the lie, then follows that with the truth of what God says about us.  The chapter ends with journal-worthy questions and a prayer.  Honestly, if you take the time to examine your own heart and answer the questions, you will not be the same person by the time you reach the end of the book!!  You will be walking  fully in your identity in Christ and be free from the lies you have always believed about yourself.

Readers, buy this book!! No matter if you think you have lived a charmed life, or if you feel like your life is the biggest mess on the planet, you will find hope, direction and healing in the pages of this book. Thank you, Mary Demuth for allowing God to use your life story to set others free!! PRAISE THE LORD!!! 

About the Author:

Mary DeMuth is a former church planter in France and the author of more than thirty books. A sought-after international speaker, she has overcome (through Jesus's healing) a difficult past to become an authentic example of what it means to live a brand new story. She lives in Texas with her family.

A View from Karen Pashley's Window - Precious In His Sight

I've not yet read this story, but was intrigued to talk with the author who has written a story that is speaking to so many who are walking through the war zone of infidelity.  Join me as I visit with Karen about her novel and her journey to publication!

Adultery, forgiveness, mercy….quite a combination of areas to tackle in a first novel! Can you give readers insight to the inspiration behind your story?

It sounds corny, but this entire story—the characters, the settings, the dilemma they face, it all came to me and played out in my mind like a movie while on a summer road trip through the mountains. I thought about it often, and more than two years later, I challenged myself to the task of transforming it into a novel. I’ve always felt called to encourage women, and am passionate about sharing the hope that Christ offers us. During the very long writing process (seven years) I went through some difficult health and family hardships that then translated into the struggles my characters faced. It was as if my journey (though not similar to the story line at all) became woven into the fabric of the novel.

Where do you think believers stumble the most when it comes to forgiveness and mercy?

I think our American Christian culture tends to compartmentalize sin into categories of our choosing. Some sin is tolerated as being a “struggle,” an “issue I’m working on,” or excused as being “part of the times we are living in.” While other sins represent lines in the sand that some Christians see as intolerable, and,more detestable than others. I wonder, though, on the day we all stand before the Lord, what it will be like when we realize that every single one of us are in the same boat, and need the same cleansing blood of Jesus. I wonder what we will think of our fellow sinners then. I hope we will all be elated that Jesus paid the price for us all, and He didn’t discriminate based on the labels we place on each other. Especially in the light of a grievous betrayal? Certainly, we all struggle with forgiveness. But, if we place our focus on Christ—on His love for us, and His good plans to turn a dark situation into something that glorifies Him, I know forgiveness is possible—and it is powerful. I’m not saying it’s easy. But aren’t the rewards of living free from bitterness worth it? How do we get there, you ask? Only through a daily, hourly, minute-by-minute surrender to His will, and by renewing our mind continually with the Word of God. Do you think, as a whole, that sometimes the church isn’t clear on the difference between contractual and covenant relationships? I don’t know that I’m qualified to have an opinion on that, but I think that if the members of the body of Christ could redirect their thoughts from their problems and the source of their problems and instead focus solely on the person of Christ and what He means to them individually, then relationships in general would thrive.

Do you think this is a novel that will have any appeal at all to someone whose life has been impacted by adultery and betrayal? Why or why not?

I’ve heard from women whose marriages ended after an adulterous situation, and they have found hope and comfort as they read about the main character and her struggle to forgive. That being said, I did hear from one woman who was finding it hard to read some of those deeply painful emotions, as they brought old wounds to the surface. I tried to be sensitive to readers’ real life scenarios as I wrote the book. I believe if someone is open to allowing God to minister to her broken heart, then she can receive hope and a lifting of her spirit by the end of this story. That’s my prayer—that by the end of the book, no matter what your journey has been, that you will feel hopeful and encouraged that with God all things are possible, and that He brings beauty out of ashes.

You made a statement recently; “We must work with God rather than running from Him in our hardships. We must never lose our hope. Storms will come. We shouldn’t fear them. With God, we can persevere with dignity and joy.” Can you expound on this a bit for your readers?

In my personal experience, I tend to handle difficulties much like a toddler pitching a fit. I immediately react with clenched fists, frustration, overwhelming fear—and in those moments of insanity, in the rush of emotions that flood my mind, I take my eyes off of the Lord. Thankfully, God is not put off by my outbursts. He understands my agony, and my humanness. He does not say, “Well, now you’ve pushed me too far. We’re done.” I’m so thankful He is a forgiving and merciful Father! So, when my runaway train of emotions finally comes to a halt, I unclench my fists, and I push the reset button. In an instant, Jesus is there, with outstretched arm, whispering, “Take my hand. Let’s walk this difficult road together. I’ll not leave you, I promise. We’ll get through it together.” I’ve learned that it is possible to experience peace and serenity even in the midst of intense pain and hardship. The hardship doesn’t disappear, but hand in hand with the Lord, I find strength.

Ultimately, we cannot place our hope solely in our desired outcome of a situation. We must place our hope in the person of Jesus Christ—He alone is the hope of glory in us and through us.

What have you learned about the writing process now that your first book has been published?

That it is much, much more than just writing a good story. There are revisions. And then revisions of the revisions. Editing, marketing, developing relationships with people in the industry and with readers—writing is not for the faint of heart!

Are you able to give us a sneak peek into your writing schedule and tell us if there are any more stories that are waiting in the wings?

Sure! I am almost finished with a novel study guide that will be a companion to ‘Precious in His Sight.’ It’s a compilation of personal stories that relate to the deep themes in the novel, along with biblical insights, questions for group or individual reflection, and journal prompts. I think it will be great for bible studies and women’s groups as a short term workshop. And for book clubs who want to dig a little deeper as a follow up to the novel. I’m also working on a sequel to “Precious in His Sight,’ and am looking forward to offering it to fans of the first book early in 2017.

How has the journey to publication impacted your faith journey?

During the course of this seven year writing journey, I went through some pretty intense storms of my own. I battled a debilitating and violent illness that was very tough. My family and I were blindsided by the heartbreaking discovery that one of our children was battling an opiate addiction. Some days, it was hard just to get out of bed and keep going, and yet, when I sat at my computer and thought about the characters in this book, the tough circumstances in my own journey, and my struggle to see God’s goodness in any of it, my experience became part of the characters’ journey. Putting myself into each of the characters’ shoes led me to a deeper understanding of God’s faithfulness and His daily outpouring of love for me. 

What words of encouragement would you like to share with others who are working toward

publication?

First, there a many viable options to get your work published. Don’t be shy! Seek out other writers and published authors and ask questions. Writers are the most generous people I’ve ever known when it comes to sharing their knowledge, experience and time. And resolve to be patient! You’ll go through ups and downs, you’ll blow your writing goals from time to time, and you’ll feel like quitting once in a while. Stick with it. The reward of completing something that is uniquely you is worth all the late nights, cramped fingers, and re-writes. Persevere, trust God, and have fun.

Precious In His Sight by Karen Pashley

About the Book:

A determined wife, her guilt-ridden husband, and the other woman, whose struggle may set them all free . . .

What if your husband was cheating? What would you do?

Feisty, tenacious, and adorably flawed, Sugar Brennan is fiercely committed to her family, her traditional Christian values, and her spotless reputation in her affluent Southern community. When she discovers her husband Clay has been unfaithful, Sugar is determined to right the wrongs in her life.

Then Clay's former mistress returns to Westfield with devastating news, posing a heart-wrenching dilemma that challenges Sugar to rethink all she's believed about faith, family, and the healing power of forgiveness.

She's been raised in a preacher's home, taught to love her enemies.

She's got the fish sticker on her car and a collection of good works under her belt.

But . . . reach out to the woman who nearly destroyed her marriage? Surely God wouldn't ask her to go that far.

I've not yet read this book, but have lived the reality that threatens this marriage.  My marriage didn't survive the storm, but I'm intrigued to find out how this character handles the situation.  Number One on the Christian fiction reading list since it hit the shelves, I'm quite certain it is making a positive impact.

Someone Like You by Victoria Bylin - REVIEWED

About the Book:
Someone Like You (Bethany House, May 2016)

Single mom Julia Dare has a lot on her plate.

A brand new Christian, Julia is busy trying to run her own business, spend time with her widowed mother, and raise her young son, Max, despite his father's less-than-ideal influence on him. When a big account from her event-planning business sends her to the Caliente Springs resort, she's shocked to come face-to-face with Zeke Monroe, the resort's general manager and her college sweetheart.

With his faith in tatters, Zeke Monroe is determined to keep the historic Caliente Springs resort running despite financial difficulties. But when Julia walks back into his life, he can't ignore the feelings she stirs up. As they work together on an important client's dream wedding, the fate of the resort soon depends on their success. When Zeke and Julia are pushed to their limits both personally and professionally, will their history put up walls between them or bring them together?

Purchase you copy HERE.

My Thoughts: 

“Tap…Tap…Tap.”  (p. 266)

I’m not going to spoil this…sound…and reveal its source, but I want you to listen for it as you read Victoria Bylin’s book, Someone Like You.  This is THE BEST and most REALISTIC story of relationships I’ve read lately!!  I was expecting something far different from the treasure  I found!

This novel deals with many kinds of relationships - familial, romantic and spiritual.  Bylin weaves all of these relationships together seamlessly and the result is breathtaking!  I can’t really share too much, because I don’t want to spoil a moment!  But if you will listen for the “tap…tap…tap…” you will enjoy the richness of its conclusion more that I can begin to describe!

I think what spoke to me the most was the fact that the main characters were realistically flawed , and they had embraced what they perceived to be failure , and that perception was coloring their entire world.  Does sin have consequence?  Most certainly! Can God redeem those consequences?  Definitely!! Julia and Zeke’s story is a beautiful story of God’s grace and mercy that will impact your faith in a powerful way! 

Don’t miss this novel!! It is a treasure of great value!  So much to enjoy! So much to digest!  So many rich blessings to take away!!  And read this novel with your ears open….Tap. Tap. Tap.

About the Author:

Victoria Bylin writes contemporary and historical romances known for their realistic, relatable characters. Her work has finaled in contests such as the Carol Awards, the RITAs, and the RT Reviewers' Choice Award. A native of California, she and her husband now make their home in Lexington, Kentucky.

Check out the great give-away HERE!!

My Toddler Bible - REVIEW

About the Book:

Fans of Chris Embleton-Hall's cheerfully distinctive artwork will be eager to see this new Bible! Twenty stories--nine from the Old Testament and eleven from the New--are retold in a concise and friendly manner in a rounded, easy-to-read font. Very, very bright, and very, very fun!

My Thoughts:

I know it is a small detail for many, but the second story in the Toddler Bible was a put-off to the intention and accuracy of this entire book.  The author chose illustrations that show Adam and Eve dressed in fig leaves as they till the soil and  plant seed.  She totally negates the first blood sacrifice and the need for blood to cover sin.

I thought the whole point of introducing toddler’s to God’s Word was to begin to teach them their need for a Savior.  Yes, the crucifixion is included, as is the resurrection, but even toddlers need to know that God’s plan of redemption was in place from the moment Adam and Eve left the garden.  Yes the redemptive parables are included, (lost sheep, prodigal son) and some of the miracles of Jesus, so this  is a basic introduction of the major and most well-known Bible stories.

The illustrations are engaging and colorful, and the language is simple and straightforward.  This is a good introduction to God’s Word for any toddler.  My only complaint is that a very important detail was passed over, and that was off-putting to me.  Accuracy should be paramount when God’s Word is being represented. 

About the Author:

Juliet David has written many children's stories and Bible activity books. Her other interests include painting, music, and travel to Israel and other Bible lands. This experienced author lives in London with her family.

Sister Dear by Laura McNeill - REVIEWED

About the Book:
Sister Dear (Thomas Nelson, April 2016)

All Allie Marshall wants is a fresh start. But when dark secrets refuse to stay buried, will her chance at a new life be shattered forever?

Convicted of a crime she didn't commit, Allie watched a decade of her life vanish --- time that can never be recovered. Now, out on parole, Allie is determined to clear her name, rebuild her life, and reconnect with the daughter she barely knows.

But Allie's return home shatters the quaint, coastal community of Brunswick, Georgia. Even her own daughter Caroline, now a teenager, bristles at Allie's claims of innocence. Refusing defeat, a stronger, smarter Allie launches a battle for the truth, digging deeply into the past even if it threatens her parole status, personal safety, and the already-fragile bond with family.

As her commitment to finding the truth intensifies, what Allie ultimately uncovers is far worse than she imagined. Her own sister has been hiding a dark secret---one that holds the key to Allie's freedom.

Buy your copy HERE!!

My Thoughts:

“People accepted the stories they were told.” (p. 77)

This one sentence – simple, innocuous and found early in Laura McNeill’s story – captures a profound truth.  It make me almost hyperventilate when I face this truth in all of its meaning.  Yes, this story captures a completely human, and very Southern, way of behavior – keeping secrets and twisting the truth so other believe the reality you need them to believe so you can gain the support for your own twisted motives.

Okay, I know this is a strong statement, birthed out of my own life being torn to shreds by secrets and lies and manipulation…and thankfully, my reality wasn’t as brutal as Allie Marshall’s in the book!! But oh, how I related to the depth of the deception she faced at the end of this story!!  Oh my!! If this author isn’t Southern, then she has studied their behavior very carefully!  Good grief!! Makes me skin crawl!

This is a fabulously told tale that captures the insidious nature of pride, the secrets that it keeps, and the manipulation needed to keep said pride intact!  The totally sold out, I-don’t-care-who-gets-hurt belief that your own story/needs/desires trump everyone else.  Oh my word!! This story nails it!!

You will bite your fingernails OFF before you reach the end!!  It is good!  But oh my!! Too close to home!! Still shivering!!!    I HATE secrets!!  HATE ‘em!! 

About the Author:

Laura McNeill is a writer, web geek, travel enthusiast, and coffee drinker. In her former life, she was a television news anchor for CBS News affiliates in New York and Alabama. Laura holds a master's degree in journalism from The Ohio State University and is completing a graduate program in interactive technology at the University of Alabama. When she's not writing and doing homework, she enjoys running, yoga, and spending time at the beach. She lives in Mobile, AL with her family.