Tangled Webs by Irene Hannon - REVEIWED

About the Book:
Finn has packed away his combat instincts--but he may need them again when danger begins to stalk his quiet hideaway . . .


After a disastrous Middle East mission ends his six-year Army Ranger career, Finn McGregor needs some downtime. A peaceful month in the woods sounds like the perfect way to decompress. But peace isn't on the agenda once he crosses paths with publishing executive Dana Lewis, a neighbor who is nursing wounds of her own. Someone seems bent on disrupting her stay in the lakeside cabin she inherited from her grandfather. As Finn and Dana work together to discover who is behind the disquieting pranks, the incidents begin to take on a menacing tone. And when it becomes apparent Dana's foe may have deadly intent, Finn finds himself back in the thick of the action--ready or not.

My Thoughts:
“Potent masculinity oozed from his pores.”  (p. 211)

Well folks, I’ve always been a fan of Irene Hannon’s romantic suspense.  And Tangled Webs has a thread of suspense that will keep the pages turning!  It may be my waning hormone levels, but I had to wade through a LOT of this “potent masculinity” to enjoy the plot this time.  Sigh!

I literally had to read around all of the hormonal touches and glances and thoughts to enjoy this novel.  EVERY man in the book was oozing masculinity…from the main character Finn to all of his brothers.  And all of the women in the book were drop-dead, distractingly beautiful.  Well, these folks needed to take a cold shower about every other page.  In the meanwhile, the Chief of Police is a much more believable character as he stands by his wife who is declining through the ravages of Alzheimer’s.   He is driven by a life-long love to do some desperate things.

While the Chief struggles, he begins to interact with someone equally desperate.  This character’s desperation is dark and insidious – and very dangerous!  So, when the main characters stop fawning over each other – well, circumstance sort of force their hand – they get swept up in a very dangerous situation.


I have to be honest, I couldn’t get past all of the over-the-top emotional/hormonal descriptions and fully enjoy this novel.  I know it’s just me.  It is still a well-written piece of fiction, but the focus seemed very unappealing to me.  A little more suspense and a little less romance please.

About the Author:

Irene Hannon is the bestselling author of more than fifty novels, including One Perfect Spring, Hope Harbor, and Sea Rose Lane, as well as the Private Justice and Men of Valor suspense series. Her books have been honored with three coveted RITA Awards from Romance Writers of America, two Carol Awards, two Reviewers' Choice Awards from RT Book Reviewsmagazine, a Retailers' Choice Award, three HOLT Medallions, two Booksellers' Best Awards, and a National Readers' Choice Award. She is also a two-time Christy Award finalist. Learn more at www.irenehannon.com.

Overcoming Spiritual Vertigo by Dwayne E. Mercer - REVIEWED

About the Book:
Sometimes doubt, fear, and disappointment cause us to lose confidence in God. In this book, Dwayne E. Mercer helps readers see past disappointments through God’s eyes and gain courage from biblical examples of faith. He provides tools for us to take faith-risks for God again, stepping out in courageous faith.

My Thoughts:
“We are engaged in spiritual warfare, fighting for our faith.  We overcome it be coming to the cross daily in humility, maintaining a close relationship with God, and feeding ourselves on His Word.”   (p. 110)

This straightforward advice sounds simple on the surface.  Sadly, many folks that fill our churches today struggle to understand this basic truth.  They struggle to even attend church thinking that it has nothing relevant to offer in this present day.  Dwayne  Mercer has written this book for millennials and those who want to grasp onto all that God offers through His Son Jesus!  We can all live lives that are filled with the hope and promise of God’s Word in our lives, and we can make an eternal difference in the lives of others day by day!


This book would make a great small group foundation!  The chapters are filled with thought-provoking ideas, and end with questions that could open up transformational discussions.  Folks, we need to be getting closer to Christ by the minute!  We need to be growing spiritually and bringing others to the Savior!   Grab a copy of this book today, get a pen and highlighter and dive into God’s truth!  This is a great book and one I am happy to recommend!

About the Author:

Dr. Dwayne Mercer has been a senior pastor for more than 30 years and is the author of Overcoming Spiritual Vertigo and When God Says Yes. He has contributed to several books including The Pathway to Discipleship, Living the Life, and Walk Through the Word, and has written numerous articles for magazines and periodicals.Dr. Mercer is a native of Georgia. He and his wife, Pam, have three adult children and five adorable grandchildren. They have served at CrossLife Church since 1993, as it has grown in membership from 800 to 5,000 in attendance, with over 4,000 new believers baptized during that time.

10TH ANNIVERSARY EXPANDED EDITION RELEASES NATIONWIDE TODAY, OCT. 18th

LOS ANGELES, Calif. (Oct. 18, 2016) – In celebration of its 10^th anniversary, world-renowned speaker and best-selling author John Bevere, releases an expanded edition of “Driven by Eternity” today, Oct. 18, 2016. In this updated version, Bevere uses an eye-opening allegory and extensive Scripture to paint a vivid picture of the way our lives on this earth shape our eternal existence, and how life beyond that final breath is much more than just a destination.

“Eternity arrests the attention of all mankind,” says Bevere. “No race, tribe, or gender can resist its draw. We were all created with eternity in our hearts and sense the immanent unknown extension of our existence.”

Featuring a brand new cover and discussion questions for group study, “Driven by Eternity” provides a unique perspective on eternity while exploring themes such as eternal judgement, foundational truths, heaven, hell, forgiveness, as well as identifying what motivates our lives on earth. Drawing on the principles in 2 Corinthians 5:9-11,  Bevere unpacks truths about whether the eternal or temporal is driving and motivating our lives, and guides readers to understand the importance of making  “eternal decisions.” 

“Your choices today will impact your forever,” says Bevere. “Don’t wait until it’s too late. Discover now how you can make your life count both today and forever.”

“Driven by Eternity” has garnered endorsements from a number of high-profile influencers and leaders over the last 10 years, including Craig Groeschel (pastor of Life.Church and author of “#Struggles: Following Jesus in a Selfie-Centered World”), Steve Furtick (pastor of Elevation Church and New York Times best-selling author), Chris Hodges (senior pastor of Church of the Highlands and author of “Fresh Air” and “Four Cups”), Mark Batterson (New York Times best-selling author of “The Circle Maker” and lead pastor of National Community Church), Jentezen Franklin (senior pastor of Free Chapel, Gainesville, GA, and New York Times best-selling author), Stephen Arterburn (radio host and best-selling author of “The Everyman” series), Bill McCartney (Promise Keepers), and Bishop T.D. Jakes (New York Times best-selling author & CEO of TDJ Enterprises), among others.

With more than 20 titles translated in over 90 languages, Bevere is known around the world for his boldness, passion, and the uncompromising truth in his award-winning studies and best-selling books. Bevere’s previous title, “Good or God?” has sold over 160,000 copies since its August 2015 release and received multiple #1 chart rankings. Widely respected as an author and expert, Bevere has been featured by top media across the globe including 700 Club, Ministry Today Magazine, Charisma, TBN, SIRIUS/XM Radio, and VITAL Magazine. He is also a regular op-ed contributor for outlets such as FoxNews.com.

For more information, please visit:

Websites: http://DrivenByEternity.com, MessengerInternational.org, JohnBevere.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/pages/John-Bevere/32273893010
Twitter: Twitter.com/JohnBevere
Instagram: Instagram.com/JohnBevere

Wonder by Jean Watson - REVIEWED

 

Internationally acclaimed recording artist Jean Watson is thrilled to announce the release date of her highly anticipated new CD, WONDER. The project is slated to impact retail on Friday, October 14, 2016 from Suite 28 Records/Shadowlands Music through Naxos of America, Inc., the nation's leading independent classical music distributor.

"The music on WONDER is the most authentically 'me' music I have ever recorded," Watson says. "I believe the music is quite accessible to both the faith-based and general markets, and the opportunity to partner with Naxos to get the music into the hands of music lovers is huge."

"Naxos has great reach into the world music marketplace, so for the first time, my music has the possibility to be offered to audiences beyond the Christian market," she continues. "How amazing to think that people may listen to this music because they love the sound and be drawn closer to God in the process!"  

WONDER represents something of a defining moment for the classically-trained singer/songwriter and instrumentalist, who is a fan favorite in the UK. She is especially popular in Ireland, where she has long hosted a daily inspirational radio show which can be heard worldwide on UCB Radio Ireland. So, her affinity for Celtic sound comes as no surprise.

Producer Billy Smiley, who has worked with Watson on her last two projects, suggested highlighting her Celtic-flavored songs and ethereal violin performances on the new CD and moving toward a more world music sound. In doing so, Watson discovered a glorious opportunity to simply be herself, both artistically and spiritually.

Sporting a world music sound that falls lithely between the ethereal, yearning Celtic sound of Maire Brennan and the graceful, poetic lyricism of Enya, Watson deftly tightwalks a line that stretches between ancient themes of grace and mercy, and is anchored by contemporary declarations of worship and adoration. There are exuberant expressions of praise ("Blessed Be Your Name"), hymns of hope ("I Can Hear Your Voice"), psalms of yearning ("Restless"), songs of surrender to the perfect will of the Father ("It Is Well"), and testimonies to the mercy and grace of God ("Everything Can Change," "Amazing Grace").

Whether invested in ardent celebration or lost in pensive worship, there is a humble honesty that runs through each song, that binds them together and points both listener and singer toward the throne of God. WONDER has an otherworldly, ethereal, moving quality which penetrates the heart and transports the listener into an attitude of worship.

In keeping with the world music direction of WONDER, Watson has enlisted the services of a number of musicians from around the globe, including South African John Ellis of Tree63 and former Newsboys drummer Peter Furler from Australia. Steve Hindalong from The Choir provides percussion, and as a special treat, Christian music legend Michael W. Smith appears as a guest accompanist as Watson performs Smith's hit, "I Can Hear Your Voice."

"I am so grateful for this opportunity for my music to reach a wider audience," says Watson. "I can't wait to see what God will do with WONDER!"

For more information on Watson and WONDER, visit jeanwatson.com.

My Thoughts:

This has to be the most beautiful CD I have encountered in a very long time!  The songs lead you into worship very naturally and authentically.  There is a wide variety of songs - some familiar - others unique creations of the artist.  There are a couple of couple of instrumentals that really appealed to me and make a nice "Selah" moment in the worship experience.  This CD is a treasure of beauty and inspiration and I am EXCITED to encourage EVERYONE to listen and enjoy!!

Experiencing God Thorough His Names by Sheryl Giesbrecht - REVIEWED

About the book:

Experiencing God Through His Names (Bold Vision Books, June 2016)

What's in a name?

Names are more than groups of letters that represent a person or identify objects. Names are powerful. A person's character and destiny can be influenced by his or her name. God's attributes and personality support His unique and distinct names. If we comprehend the meanings of His titles, we can know God more intimately. In Experiencing God Through His Names, Sheryl Giesbrecht walks with you on an exciting journey to discover and absorb the truth about God's character. In the next 31 days, God wants you to get to know Him. Are you ready?

Purchase your copy HERE.

My Thoughts:
Though small in size, the truth packed in this book is powerful and transformational!  Please take each name of God - one each day - and ponder it in your heart.  Embrace the power found in each name!  Truly, God's names are tenderly intentional! He didn't miss a single opportunity for His name to speak to EVERY SINGLE need and situation in our life!!  What love is this?!

Every day I came to this book, it seemed as though God was speaking to a specific need or situation found within the course of that day!! It has truly been a blessing I looked forward to receiving each day!  There is a practical application - usually something from the author's own experience - scriptural foundation and a thought provoking way to examine your own life and allow God's Name to speak to your heart.  Each name is contained in a brief chapter and ends with a prayer you can take with you in your heart throughout the day!

I loved this book and am happy to recommend it to everyone!!

About the Author:

Sheryl Giesbrecht has written three books, hundreds of articles, blogs, and columns. A nationally syndicated radio host, Sheryl is a sought after inspirational speaker who facilitates leadership training for thousands internationally.

Sheryl is giving away TEN COPIES of this book!!! Go HERE to enter and win a copy!!

Suzanne Woods Fisher is giving away an iPad Mini

About the Book:

Bright, curious, and restless, Ruthie Stoltzfus loves her family but is stuck in a sea of indecision about her future: Should she stay Amish? Or should she leave? She's done all she can to prepare to go-passed the GED, saved her money-but she can't quite set her journey into motion.

Patrick Kelly is a young man on a journey of his own. He's come to Stoney Ridge to convert to the Amish and has given himself thirty days to learn the language, drive a buggy, and adapt to "everything Plain." Time, to Patrick, is of the essence. Every moment is to be cherished, especially the hours he spends with Ruthie, his Penn Dutch tutor.

Ruthie's next-door neighbor and cunning ex-boyfriend, Luke Schrock, is drawn to trouble like a moth to a flame. Rebellious, headstrong, defiant, Luke will do anything to win Ruthie back---anything---and Patrick Kelly is getting in his way. 

Go HERE to enter

The Raven by Mike Nappa - REVIEWED

About the Book:
As part of his street performance, a deception specialist who goes by the name The Raven picks his audience's pockets while they watch. It's harmless fun--until he decides to keep the wallet of a prominent politician, hoping for a few extra bucks. When he finds compromising photos of the councilman and his "personal assistants," The Raven hatches a plan to blackmail the man. However, he quickly finds himself in over his head with the Ukrainian Mafia and mired in a life-threatening plot code-named "Nevermore."

Private investigators Trudi Coffey and Samuel Hill must scramble to sort out the clues to rescue The Raven from a wild card bent on revenge.

My Thoughts:

“This is going to get really messy really soon.”  (p.14)

One of the characters in Mike Nappa’s book, The Raven, is a street magician/petty thug that calls himself by the same moniker.  He is one of three or four characters whose point of view is expressed in alternating chapters.  Nappa alternates point of view and time line throughout the book, but once you get in the rhythm, serves the story well and acts effectively to push the plot along at an ever increasing pace.

I must say this at the outset…don’t ever have anything to do with the Ukranian mob!  They are bad business!  Mobs, gangs, CIA, PI’s….this book has it all.  I was intrigued by the intricacy of how everyone worked together – sometimes knowingly  - sometimes covertly – to achieve a certain end.  I was under a wrong assumption at first – who was on which side of the law – and as the story progressed I still followed a red herring now and again. To me, that is the true litmus test of a mystery series….Nappa is GREAT at misleading the reader only to execute a switchback and take the reader in an entirely new direction!

Trudi and Samuel make the perfect dysfunctional detective duo, and their relationship is both complex and very realistic!  The Raven’s character is sort of compelling, but kind of get-on-your-nerves indecisive and juvenile while also being a sort of street-wise thug.  I also felt a bit sorry that he crossed hairs with some pretty wicked folks, and found myself rooting for his survival toward the end!  There in another key character that I will mention only in passing who keeps this VERY interesting!  Her character switches direction on a dime!!  Follow her carefully!

This was a GREAT read!  I was fully engaged throughout the story, and the characters are very believable and intriguing!  There are lots of things to recommend this book to a very wide audience!! I’m a FAN!

About the Author:

Mike Nappa is an entertainment journalist at FamilyFans.com, as well as a bestselling and award-winning author with more than one million books sold worldwide. When he was a kid, the stories of Edgar Allan Poe scared him silly. Today he owns everything Poe ever wrote. A former fiction acquisitions editor, Mike earned his MA in English literature and now writes full time.