The Dancing Master by Julie Klassen

The Dancing Master is a historical romance based in late 1800's England. A small town no longer allows dancing and its history as to why is quite mysterious to the new Dance Master that has just moved into town. As he tries to make a new life for himself he finds new friendships and perhaps love along the way. I enjoyed the excerpts from real Newspaper clippings that were at the head of each chapter. I love the true historical perspective is woven throughout the novel. This is a good historical fiction novel and I enjoyed reading it.

I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers in Exchange for my review.

Hero's Lot by Patrick Carr

Hero's Lot is the second book of the series The Staff and the Sword. I loved the first book that chronicles Errol Stone's journey from a drunk orphan to a staff wielding hero. The second continues on as the threat of evil becomes even greater as the king is on his deathbed. They journey through perilous lands to fulfill the new compulsion Errol is under. This book is full of adventure and mystery. The only criticism I could give is the romance portion is lacking. I would rather there not be any romance as I find the interaction between the two childish. But other than that, I really, really enjoy this series and if you are into fantasy/adventure, this series is for you. I continue to look forward to the next release.

I received this book free from Bethany House Publisher's in exchange for my review.

Angels in the Fire by Dann Stadler

Angels in the Fire is a true story of the survival and rehabilitation of 2 people who should not have made it through a terrible head on collision. The story of Dann and Tracey Stadler is quite amazing. The couple was heading to their parent's house when they were suddenly struck by a drunk driver. The fact that their rescuers were able to remove them from the car was miraculous. I loved the story of the angel, who multiple people saw, came to rescue Tracey out of the car. The resulting hospitalization is a trial all in itself as they were separated for months following the car crash. This is an inspiring read.

I received this book free from Bethany House in exchange for my review

Gone South by Meg Moseley

This is a sweet summer read that will keep you engaged. The main character is a northerner who decides to move south to purchase her ancestor's home but all does not go as planned. I enjoyed the stereotypical interaction between small town people and the Northern personality. The interaction between Tish and Mel was well done as you end up with two "outsiders" who find commonality in their struggles to be accepted by the community. There is of course a love story intertwined as well. All in all a great summer read.

 

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

It Is Finished by David Wilkerson

It Is Finished is essentially a book that explains the New Covenant. I think many Christians don't truly understand the significance of the New Covenant and how it affects everything in our spiritual lives. This book does a fine job explaining the "how to" defeat sin in our lives. While this book is small it is jam packed with information. I also enjoyed the real life letters that were included as examples of people who struggle with the very topics he deals with in the chapters. If you desire to have a better understanding of the New Covenant this is a great read.

I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for my review.

Humble Orthodoxy by Joshua Harris

Humble Orthodoxy is a short but straight to the point book. Mr. Harris deals with the age old problem of how do you get truth across without putting people down. Grace and Truth. Each are essential and Jesus is the fulfillment of both. You can't have one without the other. Well, you can try but it's not very effective. This book gives a great introduction as to what happens when you focus too much on theology and then what also happens if you don't know any theology. Both can be hazardous. Humility is what it boils down to. Recognizing we are all in a spiritually desperate condition and the only one who can save us is Christ. There's no place for our own ego in that. This is a small book but packs a lot into it. I believe it is worth the time to read.

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

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.