Healing is a Choice by Stephen Arterburn

I recently read Healing is a Choice by Stephen Arterburn: Ten Decisions That Will Transform Your Life & Ten Lies That Can Prevent You from Making Them.  This book has been revised and updated and now includes a full workbook.  In this book Steve discusses how it is up to God to heal us but ultimately we need to make the choice to be healed.  Before reading this book I did not know much about Steve Arterburn.  If you are not familiar with the name, he is the founder of Women of Faith®, as well as, author of several books including “Every Man’s Battle”. 

This book covers a lot of material including Steve’s divorce.  Steve’s divorce is not the main focus of the book but he does talk about the healing process he had to go through and the changes he needed to make.  I appreciate him sharing the details of one of his most painful times in life but I felt that he put most of the blame on his ex-wife, Sandy, for the divorce.  While this may be true, I felt it was wrong to portray her in the light that he did.  I believe that there are two sides to every story.  I am not judging him for getting divorced as I understand that he truly may have wanted to work things out with Sandy.  However, only Steve and Sandy truly know what transpired in their marriage.  It could be interpreted by others that the book was used as a platform to elevate Steve.

I cannot say that the points made in this book are for everyone.  The first big lie that Steve addresses is “All I need to heal is just God and me”.  While he makes some valid points, I don’t think it is a lie that all someone needs is God.  Counselors and other people can certainly impact our lives but they are still people who are prone to sin.  For me, this is not a book that I will be recommending but I do see where it could be helpful to others.  You will have to decide if this book is for you or not.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Christmas Note by Donna VanLiere

The Christmas Note is a heartwarming story about the friendship between two very different women, Gretchen and Melissa.  Gretchen’s husband serves in the military and is recovering in Germany from an injury.  Gretchen, left to parent two children on her own, decides it would be best to move closer to her mother.  While moving Gretchen and her children meet their next store neighbor, Melissa.  Melissa is not very personable and it is evident that she likes to keep to herself.  One day Gretchen receives an unexpected visitor from a landlord.  He informs her that Melissa’s mother has passed away and the apartment needs to be cleaned out.  As Gretchen gives Melissa the news she also offers to help her clean out her mother’s apartment.  The journey for this unlikely pair begins as they discover a note while cleaning out the apartment.   

The Christmas Note is part of the Christmas Hope series authored by Donna VanLiere.  This is the first book that I have read in the series and must say that I loved it!  It is a story of faith, hope and the reassurance that God is in control of lives.  I would definitely recommend this book to others.    

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Sunrise on the Battery by Beth Webb Hart

Sunrise on the Battery by Beth Webb Hart takes place in Charlestown, South Carolina.  The story revolves around the Scoville family – Jackson, Mary Lynn, Catherine, Lilla and Casey.  Jackson and Mary Lynn both faced challenges during their childhoods and decided they wanted to provide a better life for their three daughters.  They worked hard to fit into the Charlestown social circles.  They pushed their daughters to be the best they could be.  Although it looked like they had everything Mary Lynn still felt an emptiness that lead her to search for a relationship with God.  While on her own search for God she prayed that her husband, Jackson, would find Him.  Is Mary Lynn ready to receive the answer to her prayers?

This was the first book that I read by this author and I did like it.  I must admit it took me some time to get into it as it is told from three different points of view.  The story is told by Jackson, Mary Lynn and Catherine.  At times I found it difficult to follow because there were so many characters and relationships to remember.  In the end I really did like this book and would recommend it to others.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Grace of God by Andy Stanley

Andy Stanley did an excellent job explaining God’s grace.  He captures his readers by providing examples from both the Old and New Testaments while weaving in personal stories.  I have heard Andy Stanley preach before and I found this book to be similar to his preaching style.  It was an informative yet easy read.  I felt he explained the subject matter well and in a relatable manner.

On the back of the book Andy writes, “Grace.  It’s what we crave most when our guilt is exposed.  It’s the very thing we are hesitant to extend when we are confronted with the guilt of others – especially when their guilt has robbed us of something we consider valuable.  Therein is the struggle, the struggle for grace….”  He goes on to explain grace even further but these are such powerful words as they can challenge us to become more like Christ.  Throughout this book Andy does an excellent job providing examples of how far the grace of God extends even to those who may be viewed as unworthy.  I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to others who would like a glimpse into the world of God’s grace. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

One Call Away by Brenda Warner

One Call Away by Brenda Warner

This book chronicles the life of Brenda Warner, the wife of NFL player Kurt Warner.  Brenda is very honest in her writing about the challenges that she has endured thus far in life.  Her life, like most people, has not turned out the way she planned.  I want to believe that Brenda’s intention for this book was to be an encouragement to others who are facing difficulties and show them that the Lord has a plan for their life.  I believe that Brenda had a real opportunity to really connect with readers but I felt that she missed the mark.  At least she did with me.        

I struggle to write a review as I thought this was a Christian book not just a book that would casually mention God.  I felt that Brenda did not give God the glory He deserved.  She has been through a lot but the Lord has blessed her in so many ways.  I also felt she was little too detailed in certain areas and there were parts that could have been left out.  While I certainly understand that Christians are not perfect I disagree with how she so nonchalantly disregards sin in her book.  I do not want to judge her, as the Lord is the ultimate judge, but I just cannot recommend this book to others.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Stained Glass Heats: Seeing LIfe through a Broken Perspective by Patsy Clairmont

The book Stained Glass Hearts: Seeing Life from a Broken Perspective by Patsy Clairmont was an interesting read.  Patsy is a Women of Faith speaker and her humor and openness about her life shines through in this book.  Patsy discusses how the Lord has brought her through many difficult times in her life.  During a time in her life she was an agoraphobic, unable to leave her house or even get out of bed.   Now she flies all over the world speaking at conferences!  Through this book readers can see how the Lord has worked in Patsy’s life and brought her through many difficult times.  While I found this to be a good book it is not one that is really life changing.  I believe Patsy truly has a powerful testimony to share but found this book to give only brief insights into her struggles.  However, that could have been her intention.  Included in her chapters are quotes, recommended music, artwork and scriptures.   While some may find these suggestions useful they are certainly not for every reader.  I would recommend this book to others as overall it is truly a good read and may expand the world of some readers who have not had a previous interest in the arts and music.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Love You More by Jennifer Grant

In the book Love You More, Jennifer Grant describes the triumphs and hardships of adopting her daughter, Mia, from Guatemala.  Jennifer and her husband had three biological children but always felt that they would adopt a child.  When the opportunity arose they decided to adopt a child from Guatemala.  As Jennifer explains, this was not an easy or quick decision but one that was carefully thought out. 

Jennifer does a wonderful job describing the adoption process and the difficulty that some people face in waiting for this process to be completed.  For some the process is quick, while for others it is a very long process.  Unfortunately for Jennifer a long wait was part of her journey.  She discusses her feelings during this time of waiting and how she long for Mia to home with her.  Once Mia is home with her, Jennifer is very real in sharing her joy and her hardships.  Her joy comes from loving this beautiful little girl who she believed was designed to be a part of her family.  Her hardships come from trying to help Mia adapt to a new life while still caring for her other three children.  I enjoyed this book as I found it to be an easy and a quick read.  I found it both informative and interesting.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Thunder Dog by Michael Hingson with Susy Flory

Thunder Dog by Michael Hingson with Susy Flory

This is an incredible story about the journey of a blind man and his guide dog miraculously escaping the seventy-eighth floor of the World Trade Center’s north tower on September 11, 2001.  This story is both encouraging and emotional as you rejoice for the lives that were saved that day but are saddened by the loss of so many heroic people.  Throughout the story Michael discusses the events that took place on September 11^th and intertwines stories from his past.  He allows the reader to intimately see into his life of growing up blind.  He includes stories of both his struggles and his triumphs.  This book is also very educational as Michael teaches the importance of a guide dog.  One can gain a better understanding of the strong bond that exists between the owner and the guide dog.  Michael illustrates it beautifully as the bond is similar to that in marriage.  Trust is an essential element for the relationship to work. 

This book is a must read as it is truly an encouraging and educational story.  At the end of the book Michael includes several resources to provide additional education regarding blindness.   

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Little Red Book of Wisdom By Mark DeMoss

The Little Red Book of Wisdom by Mark DeMoss

The Little Red Book of Wisdom is about time tested principles that will assist you in both your personal and your business relationships.  The author draws on several of his personal experiences to demonstrate how there is wisdom in using many basic and common sense principles. 

The author discusses on several occasions the practices of his own public relations firm, as well as, the lessons he learned from his father.  The book was a quick read and broken down into twenty-three short chapters.   The length of the chapters was fine but it seemed that the book was all over the place.  The author would tell a story and then he would quickly jump to something else.  It may have been more effective to elaborate on some of the stories that were told as it may leave the reader wanting to turn the page. 

This book was difficult to get through, though the principles were excellent, the way the book was written seemed more like an advertisement for the author’s public relations company.  Again, the principles that the author discusses are tried and true but the delivery could have been more effective.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Walk By Richard Paul Evans

The Walk is an inspiring fictional story of a man named Alan who had everything and then lost everything.  He lost the love of his life, McKale, his business, and his home.  To run away (or heal - whichever way you choose to look at it) from the brokenness of his life, Alan decided to embark upon a journey in which he would walk from Washington to Florida.  Upon this journey Alan encounters several individuals who end up impacting his life in one way or another.   

I thoroughly enjoyed this book as it beautifully illustrated how we are on this earth for a purpose.  Our presence, if we allow it, can impact or change someone else's life.  The book also showed how something beautiful can be born out of brokenness.  The ending of this book left me wanting more chapters so I could continue on Alan's journey.  Thankfully this book is part of a trilogy series.  The second book "Miles to Go" was released this year and the third book will be released in April 2012.  I did read Miles to Go and can tell you it was even better then "The Walk".  This was the first book that I have read by Richard Paul Evans.  I found both books to be quick reads and I found myself not wanting to put them down.  Richard Paul Evans style of writing made me feel like I was right there with Alan on his journey.

If you decide to read these books I hope you will be encouraged as I was and look for ways that you can positively impact the lives of others.