Thursday, April 25, 2013

7 Men by Eric Metaxas

        Eric Metaxas new book endeavors to take us on a journey through seven different men's lives throughout history to answer two questions. The first is "What is a man?" and the second is "What makes a man great?". Each chapter is a mini-biography to show us the courage it took in these men's lives to surrender their own desires for a greater purpose. Don't miss the introduction. It sets up the entire book and gives great insight to a growing dilemma in our society today.
        I happened to be doing a study on Hebrews while reading this book and it struck me that these men have what Hebrews 13:7 says "Remember those who led you, who spoke the word of God to you; and considering the result of their conduct, imitate their faith."(NASB) I thoroughly enjoyed this book and it is very inspiring. It should spur us on to action. To live out our faith, not just talk about doing it. I highly recommend this book. A must read for everyone.

Thursday, April 18, 2013

Unrivaled by Siri Mitchell

I really enjoy Ms. Mitchell's historical novels. She does a great job wrapping a novel around actual events and giving us a great look into history. This story takes place in St. Louis and brings together two rival candy makers. It shows the competitive nature that would arise between companies as well as a glimpse into the time before child labor laws. Lucy is in the midst of her debut into society but all she wants is to make candy for her father's floundering candy company. I enjoyed the tension between doing what was socially acceptable and what her passion for candy making wanted her to do. Which of course led to tension with the man she was attracted to yet her "enemy".
I enjoyed this book and anyone who enjoys historical fiction will not be disappointed.
I received this book free from Bethany House in exchange for my review.

Tuesday, April 9, 2013

Avenged by Janice Cantore

Avenged is the third book in the Pacific Coast Justice Series. I haven't read the others in the series so I jumped right into this novel. The author does a good job re-capping events that happened in the previous books so I didn't feel to out of it. There was obviously major tension between Carly and her husband, Nick which had since been resolved. The storyline kept my attention and the suspense was well done. If you enjoy police drama, this would be a good series.

I received this book free from Tyndale publishers in exchange for my review.

Thursday, April 4, 2013

Fortress of Mist by Sigmund Brouwer

Fortress of Mist is the second book in Merlin's Immortals series. This series continues to intrigue and make you look forward to the next in the series. The forces of good and evil are played out well and at times your not sure who to root for. The mysteries are still being unraveled and we get just enough into Thomas's past with those mysterious books. I enjoy the character of Katherine who disguises who she really is. I am looking forward to figuring out more about her character as she seemingly is falling in love with Thomas. If you enjoy fantasy books, you'll enjoy this series which is geared toward middle school age.

I received this book free from Waterbrook Press in exchange for my review.