Books I've Read This Month

While it may not seem like I read books other than fiction or devotionals, on occasion I am intrigued by a book advertised and pick it up. In this case, I borrowed the non-fiction book Unoffendable by Brant Hansen from the Libby app.

About the Book

It turns out giving up your “right” to be offended can be one of the most freeing, healthy, simplifying, relaxing, refreshing, stress-relieving, encouraging things you can do. It’s a radical, provocative We’re not entitled to get offended or stay angry. The idea of our own “righteous anger” is a myth. It is the number one problem in our societies today and, as Dallas Willard says, Christians have not been taught out of it. But what if Christians were the most unoffendable people on the planet? In Unoffendable you will find concrete, practical ways to live life with less stress, In a humorous and conversational style, Unoffendable seeks to lift religious burdens from our backs and allow us to experience the joy of gratitude, perhaps for the first time, every single day of our lives—flourishing the way God intended.

5 STARS

Well, let me tell you...It. Is. Excellent! Anyone calling themselves a Christian needs to read this book. I listened to the audio edition read by the author. Such a great experience. I found myself verbally agreeing with his statements while at the same time remonstrating myself for doing what he plainly and compassionately states that we should not do as Christians. I mean really, what is the point of going around being offended all the time? Be UNOFFENDABLE!!! 

This is a book that I will definitely order a paperback copy of, and that doesn't happen too often for me, especially when I'm not required to write a review. But this book is so good, I want to be able to make notes in the margins.

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The first fiction book I listened to this year on the Libby app was Country Bride by Debbie Macomber.  

2 STARS

She is a secular author but her books are considered clean with moral teachings. I've read several before and enjoyed them. But this one...

No. Just no. But saying that didn't work for Kate. Luke is a bully. Macomber has written some great stories but this isn't one of them. It sends all the wrong messages about how a healthy relationship is supposed to be. I listened to the audible version, which the narrator did a good job on, hence my two stars.

It pained me to have to give such a low rating. I think it's only the second time in about 12 years I've done that. It's only 5 hours on audio and I kept hoping something would happen to redeem this story, but for me it didn't. 

Why leave a low review you may ask when I wasn't obligated? I don't always. Macomber is such a popular women's author and her books aren't cheap. I would have been extremely disappointed had I actually spent money on this one, so that is why I left the review. Of course, you can go look at the number of 3 star and under reviews and see how they outnumber the 4 and 5 star reviews. 

I won't discourage anyone from borrowing her books from your local library, an online app where you can get them for free, or borrowing from a friend. Most of her books I've read, I liked. But read the mid-range and negative reviews and carefully consider the amount of them. 

My two cents worth which probably isn't even worth that! :-)

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I already posted my review of The Juliet Code by Pepper Basham in a separate post because that was an 'official' review.

You can read it here.

I want to say that Pepper Basham has become one of my favorite authors to read. She is able to write across a pretty wide spectrum of subjects/genre and always does such a fabulous job on her stories, both contemporary and historical. If you're looking for romance, adventure, down-home folks, and faith look no further. Grab one of her books today!

Review ~ Amish Friends 4 Seasons Cookbook by Wanda Brunstetter

 

About the Book

Fresh Recipes for Each Season of the Year
Do you strive to eat what local, fresh, and in season? Then this is the cookbook for you. Organized by the winter, spring, summer, and fall seasons, there are a bounty of recipes for various ways to use up seasonal fruits and vegetables. Sprinkled with tips for growing and harvesting, too, the well-organized book boasts contributions from Amish and Mennonites from across the United States who are fans of author of Amish fiction, Wanda E. Brunstetter. Encased in a lay-flat binding and presented in full color, it is a must-have cookbook for anyone who gardens, participates in a CSA, or enjoys farmers’ markets.

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My Review 4.5 STARS

It being close to summer, I decided to try making the recipe that most closely resembles my favorite summertime dessert, Peach Cobbler. The recipe in Amish Friends 4 Seasons Cookbook I chose to make is entitled Peach Cream Pie (pg. 78) and let me tell you it is sooooo good! I used fresh peaches, following the recipe exactly as written which for me is unusual. I admit I am a canned peach person but the pie was sweet and tasty and had a custard-like filling that made my mouth water! I served it to our family after dinner and I must be honest and say that only two out of five of us liked it but we also are the only two that also like custard. I’m sure that’s a texture thing. ;)

I also made Baked Oatmeal (pg. 179), using the suggestion to add canned Blueberries to the bottom of the dish before putting in the oatmeal mixture. Oh. My. I will be making this again. Both recipes were easy to prepare and quite tasty. The cookbook has a spiral binding which makes it easy to fold back and not have to worry about it falling over or anything like that. Lots of pretty color photos of food dishes for all seasons of the year too!

If you’re looking for simple recipes and some down home comfort food, look no further! I’m planning on trying more of these scrumptious looking recipes as the year goes on. I also think this would be a fairly easy cookbook for a beginner cook.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Review ~ The Little Women Devotional by Rachel Dodge

Devotional Inspiration from the Lives of Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy
 
The Little Women Devotional offers lovely inspiration that explores the themes of faith, family, contentment, wisdom, and joy in the classic Louisa May Alcott novel, cherished by generations of readers.
Each reading corresponds with a chapter from the book and invites you to embrace God’s guiding hand in your life as His cherished daughter. This beautiful chapter-by-chapter devotional includes original artwork throughout, and each reading includes examples from the novel, scripture, life application, and prayers perfect for groups, book clubs, or personal reflection.

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My Review 4 STARS
Dodge has written a darling companion devotional based on one of my most favorite classic novels, Little Women by Louisa May Alcott. One of the sweetest things about this devotional is the lovely art work! Faith and family are integral in this devotional, making it one I recommend whether you are a fan of the classic novel or not.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Review ~ Amish Friends Baking Cookbook by Wanda E. Brunstetter

Barbour Books, August 31st 2021

224 Pages

Delightful Baked Goods from Dozens of Amish Kitchens 

 

Fresh-baked buns or cookies waiting for a child’s after-school snack is a delight many of us remember from our own mothers’ and grandmothers’ kitchens. You can now share the joy of baking for and with your own family through dozens of recipes provided by Amish bakers. Ideas for breads, rolls, cakes, cookies, and more will keep you busy taste testing and sharing all the goodies. Also included are step-by-step instructions, baking tips, and anecdotes from Amish bakers. Encased in a lay-flat binding and presented in full color, home bakers of all ages will be delighted to add this cookbook to their collections.

 

This is a must-have cookbook for anyone with a soft spot for baked goods, from New York Times bestselling author of Amish fiction, Wanda E. Brunstetter.

Purchase:

Amazon

*I am NOT affiliated with any vendors. Purchase links are for your convenience only. 

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My Review 5 STARS

If you’ve never bought one of Brunstetter’s Amish cookbooks, you are missing out on some delicious recipes!! Grab a good sturdy wooden spoon and get ready to make some of the tastiest baked goods you can imagine.

One of my favorite recipes is Baked Oatmeal. It can be as simple as the printed recipe in the book or you can jazz it up with fresh fruit. Our favorite way to enjoy it is with fresh Blueberries either placed into the bottom of the pan before pouring the oatmeal mixture over top, or tossing a few plump ones on top of the finished product! MmmMmm!!!

I plan on trying my hand at several more recipes, especially the White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake since that is my all-time favorite flavor of Cheesecake! It actually looks fairly easy to make. I was surprised that the baker recommends using a handheld mixer to beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth but hey, I’m all for electricity! LOL

I received a copy of this beautifully presented cookbook from the publisher with no expectation of a review.

Review ~ A Bible Study Journal for Women compiled by Barbour Staff

 BARBOUR BOOKS / 2021 / PAPERBACK

Description

You want more from your time alone with scripture. . .
A Bible Study Journal for Women provides helpful instruction
and ample space for you to jot down your reflections.
 
Based on the million-copy bestseller How to Study the Bible, this journal describes the types, tools, and techniques of exploring God’s Word. And it allows you to share your thoughts and feelings along the way, creating a treasured record of your own walk with God.
 
A Bible Study Journal for Women is presented in a beautiful package featuring

• a flexible textured binding
• two-color interior printing
• stained page edges
• a ribbon marker

Here are everyday Bible helps for everyday spiritual growth.

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My Review 5 STARS!!!

I don't know about you but I love journals! This one is beautifully bound and has plenty of space for writing down questions and/or reflections while studying the Bible. It gives a helpful over view on how to prepare to study your Bible, discovering what the Bible means, particular study methods and useful study helps.  

I especially liked the emphasis in the beginning on preparing our hearts; being dependent on God and purposeful in our approach. It is all too often easy for me to rush to study and rush through study. This journal is a good stepping stone in my preparation and approach to study time. I'm using it to also journal my prayer beforehand. Visually, this journal is also aesthetically pleasing with its floral design and pink edged pages. I highly recommend it!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Do you use a journal during Bible study time? If so, what kind do you have? 

Review ~ Abandoned London by Katie Wignall

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• Publisher : Amber Books (July 6, 2021) | Hardcover : 224 pages

With 150 outstanding color photographs, Abandoned London presents a poignant pictorial exploration of the English capital—from forgotten railways lines and underpasses to lost industrial places, movie theaters, churches, and cemeteries. London is both a bright, modern city with soaring skyscrapers as well as a metropolis hundreds of years old—and, despite its gleaming surface, there is another side to the city, one of secrets, dilapidation, and mystery. Wander through disused stations on the Underground; immense, ornate Victorian sewers and waterworks; crumbling but beautiful Art Deco cinemas and empty swimming pools; bombed-out churches and eerie docklands; and ruined mansions and overgrown cemeteries, all haunting relics from a time gone by. Arranged thematically from transport and industry to residential and recreational, these entries cover both the modern city and the historical metropolis. 

Book releases in the UK in May, and here in the US in July 2021. 

Pre-order at Amazon.

My Review  4 STARS!!!

Fascinating history of London and some of its most enigmatic buildings is contained within the pages of Abandoned London. The photography, coupled with the narrative, captivated me. As someone who will probably never travel to London, I was delighted to experience some of its lesser known history through the eyes of the storyteller and photographer. It’s wonderful that these places time may have forgotten are being resurrected in this book.

As someone who reads a lot mysteries my mind was quite intrigued by the car found when civil engineers drained Hampstead Heath in 2015. I want to know more about this and what they may have found inside the car.

One of the most amusing anecdotes is about a man who applied to the city to put in a tank and his application was approved. Except it wasn’t the kind of tank the city expected. It was a literal tank, as in military! That gave me a chuckle and made me contemplate what fun it would be to see something like that just sitting on a residential lot.

If you’re an armchair traveler, this book would definitely be a great choice. There are so many interesting accounts of history contained within. I received an electronic copy from the publisher through Netgalley. No compensation received.

Review ~ Know Your Bible Journal for Women from Barbour Publishing

 

About the Book:

You want the most from your time alone with scripture. . .
this Know Your Bible Journal for Women provides both simple guidance and ample space for you to jot down your reflections.

Based on the three-million-copy bestseller Know Your Bible, this journal describes the who, what, when, where, and why of each biblical book. And it allows you to share your thoughts and feelings, creating a treasured record of your own walk with God.
 
The Know Your Bible Journal for Women is presented in a beautiful package featuring

·  a flexible textured binding

·  two-color interior printing

·  stained page edges

·  a ribbon marker

Here are everyday Bible helps for everyday spiritual growth.

My Review ~ 5 STARS

Know Your Bible Journal for Women is fabulous! I have enjoyed the relaxed manner of this journal. Each book of the Bible can be explored as much or as little as you desire with six prompts—In Ten Words or Less; Details, Please; Author and Date; Quotable; Unique and Unusual; So What?—and plenty of writing space. The decorative pages are encased in a lovely and very durable softcover that is equally attractive.

One of my favorite ‘prompts’ is the Details, Please. I’ve recently begun to look a little closer at the details of each book and this gives me a concise, pointed view. But I have to say that each prompt encourages thought and exploration, and you can even write (or draw if that is your thing) your questions down to ponder on. I’m a journaler and love it!!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Review ~ Come, Sweet Day by Julianne Donaldson

 

About the Book

Bestselling romance author Julianne Donaldson has written deeply emotional, sweeping love stories in Edenbrooke and Blackmoore, often commenting that her characters were a reflection of what she wanted a woman’s life to be: happy, secure, unconditionally loved, and fulfilled. But in reality her own life was far more marked by difficult challenges and disappointments. In her new book, Donaldson reveals her thoughts and feelings from that unsettled time of despair and suffering so women can know they are not alone and that there is hope even in the hard times.

Compiled from years of inspirational words of encouragement to herself on social media—and even bits and pieces of random musings written on scrap paper, this is a unique writer’s journey through a life passage marked by cancer, a bitter divorce, legal battles with her ex-husband, mental illness, and persistent feelings of rejection and abandonment which also rendered her unable to pick up her career as a writer to support herself and her family. Overwhelmed by sadness and almost paralyzed into inaction by despair, she slowly finds her way back to her writer’s toolbox, unpacking the pain and sharing her innermost feelings as if revealing a character’s thoughts in a novel. In her writing she begins to find rays of understanding and acceptance and eventually finds strength from knowing that God’s love and His grace and guidance give greater meaning to our suffering and light the way to hope.

 

My Review ~ 4 STARS

Come, Sweet Day is a compilation of poetic musings from highly-acclaimed romance writer Julianne Donaldson. Weaving a journey of heartache and hope, Donaldson shares deeply personal struggles through a very hard season of life with open, honest words.

Anyone who has experienced grief will be able to empathize with what this author reveals. I know from personal experience getting out of bed when your life has been wrecked with grief is definitely a feat in its own right, and Donaldson grasps this small victory because she has lived it. Hope does come, and when it does, it is a sweet day.

I received an electronic copy from the publisher though NetGalley. No compensation has been received.

Review ~ The Anne of Green Gables Devotional: A Chapter-by-Chapter Companion for Kindred Spirits by Rachel Dodge

Devotional Inspiration Especially for Kindred Spirits

 

The Anne of Green Gables Devotional offers lovely inspiration that explores the theme of God’s love and faithfulness through the pages of the classic L. M. Montgomery novel, cherished by generations of readers. Each reading corresponds with a chapter from the book and invites you to embrace God’s redemptive plans for your life as His very own adopted daughter in Christ.

 

This beautiful 40-day devotional includes original artwork throughout, and each reading includes examples from the novel, scripture, life application, prayers, and discussion questions perfect for groups, book clubs, or personal reflection. It’s perfect as a personal read or gift for a bosom friend!

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My Review ~ 5 STARS

Fans of Anne Shirley will absolutely adore this devotional, gaining insight into the heart of a lonely little girl and the people who came to accept and love her for who she was. You’ll see how beloved characters change and grow and how faith in the Lord is woven throughout a timeless classic story. And the illustrations are beautiful!

Each day’s offering is simple and yet filled with truth of Scripture. I delighted in every moment reading these wonderful devotionals. Remember this lovely rendering is meant to be used as an enrichment tool, not as a replacement for the Word of God.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. No compensation was received.

Have a blessed day in the Lord,

Review ~ Peace in the Storms of Life: Devotional Encouragement for Women by Julie Rayburn

Hardcover, 256 pages

Published March 1st 2020 by Barbour Books

God’s Word Is an Anchor in Life’s Storms

 

These 125 heartfelt devotional readings will challenge you to dive deep into God’s Word to find the strength and peace you need amid the storms of life.

 

Your Father God is ever-present, even in the deepest valleys, and His hope is available to those who seek it. This book will encourage and inspire through any circumstance when you allow your heart to be transformed as you apply God’s truth in real-life situations. As you consider questions for further thought, you’ll be drawn deeper into the heart of God.

 

This lovely book is perfect for personal use or as a heartfelt gift for a friend going through hard times. 

My Review

4 STARS!!!

Have you ever felt like the waves of life are crashing over you?

That first line is apropos in these scary times, is it not? Peace in the Storms of Life arrived on my doorstep at the perfect time! Wrapped in a lovely Wisteria watercolor style hardcover, each of these 125 short devotionals is practical, hopeful, and encouraging. I love how the author speaks as if she is sharing tidbits of wisdom over a shared meal or coffee/tea time. I’m reminded as I read them that in all things we can trust in the One who knows us and loves us better than anyone. If you’re stressed or worried or anxious, this would be a wonderful addition to your time spent studying God’s Word. There is a gentleness that comes across in each devotion that is soothing to the soul.

I received a copy from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a review.

Review ~ She Believed: 12 Stories of Courageous Women of Faith Who Changed the World (Courageous Girls) by Jean Fischer

Shiloh Kidz (February 1, 2020) 

Girls are world-changers! . . . And this delightful storybook proves it!

Give 5- to 8-year-old girls role models who might inspire them to become world changers! These stories will empower them to understand that women make an important contribution to our world, and that our faithful impact would be much smaller without Clara Barton, Corrie ten Boom, Mother Teresa, Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, and others. 32 pages, hardcover from Shiloh Kidz.

She Believed contains 12 encouraging stories of women of faith through history who have had an astonishing impact not only in Christianity but around the world.

This hardback book is sure to draw young readers into each short story with colorful illustrations that are pleasing to the eye and strengthen their faith. It is also a great opportunity for parents and caregivers to engage in meaningful conversation with inquiring minds.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

~Happy Reading~

Review ~ Coffee with Mom: Caring for a Parent with Dementia by Mike Glenn

Paperback, 208 pages

Published June 1st 2019 by B Books

Sometimes, life takes you places you don’t want to go. 

Dementia and Alzheimer’s is a journey no one wants to take, yet  life doesn’t give us a choice. Author Mike Glenn's mom didn’t want to be sick, and while she couldn’t overcome the devastation of disease, she wasn’t going down without a fight.

She fought the illness, denying its presence. She fought the doctors, “Who were these idiots anyway?” And she fought him, “How come you think you’re in charge now?”

Coffee with Mom is a book about a mom's fight with dementia and the struggle of a son who wanted to help but didn’t always know how. Most of their conversations—and sometimes battles—happened during morning coffee.

This book isn’t about knowing all of the answers. It is one son’s journey with his mom—a mom with Alzheimer’s and a son who did the best he could, and who wrote this story in hopes that you’ll find a few laughs for your journey, realize you’re not alone, and find the courage to do the best you can.

So, pour yourself a cup of coffee, and join us on the journey. You’ll find yourself in the laughter and tears of not knowing what to do next and making a decision that you hope works out, knowing it’s the best you can do in the moment.

In the end, that’s all that matters. “Do the best you can” is all love requires.

Mike Glenn is the Senior Pastor of Brentwood Baptist Church in Brentwood, Tennessee. Under his leadership since 1991, the church has grown to a church with eight campuses and a membership of over 11,000. He graduated from Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. Glenn has written two books, In Real Time and The Gospel of Yes, and writes frequently on his blog, MikeGlennOnline.com, and for Patheos.com. He is married to Jeannie, his wife and best friend of 37 years. They have twin sons, Chris (Deb) and Craig (Nan), and three granddaughters, Mackenzie, Rowen, and Brooklyn.

My Review
4 STARS!!!

I found Coffee with Mom to be an extremely candid look at a son’s experience of caring for his mother through the last years of dementia. Glenn explains how we perceive it is going to be but in actuality how it really is. Of course, everyone’s experience won’t be exactly the same but there are enough similarities that I feel this book might need to be a ‘must-read’ for anyone in the roll of long term caregiver.

I read this book in small doses because my heart twisted at some of the recollections. My husband and I experienced similar emotional pain through the years with our daughter who was physically and mentally challenged. I appreciate Glenn’s honesty and transparency and it encouraged me not to go back and second guess any decisions my husband and I made. Even in the midst of life’s greatest trials, there is humor to be found (we know that for a fact) and Glenn displays a keen wit. Really, his mom was a hoot. I’m so glad he wrote this book!

As I read along, I couldn’t help but share passages with my husband (okay, I basically read the book to him) because 1) our own experience and the ensuing years of grief and healing and 2) he has a co-worker (CW) who is a co-caregiver to both parents who have Alzheimer’s. He said CW has confided a few of these same emotional and physical challenges of caring for his parents. My husband told me he thinks he is now better prepared to pray for and encourage CW through this challenging time.

I appreciate Lifeway and B&H sending me a copy for review purposes. No compensation has been received.

Review ~ The Scripture Memory Map for Women by Barbour

Published August 1, 2019
Barbour Publishing, Inc

What Does Scripture Memorization Look Like? . . .

Find out in The Scripture Memory Map for Women.

This unique scripture memory journal is an engaging and creative way for you to treasure the truths of God's Word in your heart. Each page features a lovely 2-color design that guides you to write out specific scripture memory goals, thoughts, and more. . .which then create a specific "map" for you to follow as you memorize God's Word. Each map includes a spot to record the date, so you can look back through your journal and see how God's Word has been ingrained into your daily life. The Scripture Memory Map for Women will not only encourage you to become more familiar with God's Word. . .it will also help you build a healthy spiritual habit of Bible memorization for life! 

My Review

5 STARS!!!

I wasn’t sure what to expect with this creative journal but I love it! It’s perfect for ‘mapping out’ whichever verse I want to memorize while prompting deeper thought as to why the particular verse is relevant in my life right now. This is a great way to meditate on a verse. I find the prompt “Knowing this verse will be helpful when” really causes me to be honest with myself because I have to write it down. Seeing my answer in print makes a huge difference for me. Add to that the spiral binding and pretty illustrations and it’s a winner!

I was provided a review copy from the publisher with no expectation of a review.

Review ~ Great and Small Prayers for Babies by B&H KIDS, Pamela Kennedy

Thank You, God, for great and small animal friends! 

Join these adorable animal pairs in a board book that’s meant for little hands to hold and explore. Each spread features a large animal and his little friend, who is hiding under the flap. A short thank-You prayer on each spread models simple thankfulness, and the text includes animal sounds to make the reading even more fun.

Six pairs of great-and-small friends to meet, six chunky flaps to lift and discover, and six simple prayers to pray—all to delight little hands and hearts.

Purchase  -- B&H Publishing

My Review
5 STARS!!!

This little board book contains the sweetest illustrations, reminding me of vintage children’s books. The pages are durable and just the right thickness for little hands to turn the pages easily. Each right side has a thick fold down flap with a prayer on the front and the sound the animal makes once turned down. They’re so cute!!!

Prayers designed to engage a young child are simple and rhyming and easily memorized. Great & Small Prayers for Babies is bound to bring forth many squeals and giggles from your little one.

I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.