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.”