Jesus Rode a Donkey ~ Review

Jesus Rode a Donkey
Why Millions of Christians Are Democrats
By Linda Seger, Th.D.

Politics is something that can divide people and even the Church can be split when it comes to political allegiance.  But with Jesus Rode a Donkey Linda Seger looks beyond the party platforms and looks at the heart of the issue.

When voting one needs to look at how an individual candidate has portrayed their beliefs in their life and action not just in their official platform.  The election process is one fraught with decisions that weigh upon the soul. How do I vote? Should I focus on the party platform? The individual's spoken stand? Or the candidate's life as a whole?

Looking at the two major parties, the greatest difference is seemingly the role of religion in America. But looking at the founding of our nation one has to acknowledge that the foundations were liberal in nature - the very idea of freedom was an unheard of concept. A monarchy free government, freedom to worship without a state endorsed religion, and the promise of equality were ideas of change.

But equality's promise has not been enjoyed by all throughout America's history. And this is where our focus should be - WWJD (what would Jesus do?). Jesus came to those society looked down upon. He associated with the poor, the outcast, the ill. He showed neighborly love to all and didn't allow the dictates of society to determine whom should be His neighbor. How can we do any less?

Whether one agrees with the views of the author this is an interesting look at politics, Christianity, and America. Jesus rode a donkey when He entered Jerusalem and a donkey was symbolic with the lowly life He lived starting with His birth in a stable.

I was provided a copy of this book by the author through TBCN/BookFun with no expectation of a positive review and all opinions are my own.


About the Book:
If Jesus were alive today, would he: feed the poor - or give tax breaks to the super rich? Comfort the old and infirm - or cut Social Security? Build bridges that unite - or build walls that divide? Make peace - or make war?

In this ground breaking book, noted author and theologian Linda Seger, Th.D., explores what it means to be a Christian and a Democrat - and shows how the two are not mutually exclusive but rather inclusive. She reveals the close relationship between Democratic policy and Jesus' teachings and the many ways in which the values Jesus espouses in the Bible correspond to the values Democrats call their own. The idea that America's real Christians vote strictly Republican crumbles when one studies the platforms of both parties.

Jesus Rode a Donkey reminds the reader that Jesus and the prophets had a radical, progressive message that calls individuals and nations to feed the hungry, help the poor, heal the sick, care for the earth, free the oppressed, and love our enemies.

The book won the Silver Medal Christian Living Illumination Book Award given for exemplary Christian writing.

About the Author:
Dr. Linda Seger has a background in both drama and theology. She has focused her career as an international script consultant, seminar leader in the area of screenwriting, and author of 9 books on screenwriting. In the last eight years, she has also been writing books on spirituality. Dr. Seger has built her business based on the spiritual principles in her books. She is dedicated to helping her clients express their spirituality through their writing and to deepening the themes and values found in films. She has long been interested in the relationship of spirituality and creativity. As a result of her broad religious background, she is able to nurture the spiritual values of others through her books and her public speaking.

Jesus Invites Me ~ Review

Jesus Invites Me
Knowing My God series: A Learn book
By Callie Grant
     Art by Missi Jay

Instilling an early knowledge of Jesus that will grow with your child and family is what is so lovely about these books. Jesus Invites Me focuses on the verses from Matthew 11:28-30 in which we are invited by God (Jesus) to bring the burdens in our lives and share them with Him.

This is a promise that all can take to heart from the youngest child to the oldest adult. How often do we have an offer to help us carry the stresses of the day and all we have to do is share our need with God?

Every other page shares a portion of the Scripture while expounding on what this passage means. The facing page has an illustration which conveys this passage as well.

The book includes, in the final portion, guidance for parents on how to engage their children for their age (baby, toddler, and child).

A delight that is perfect for family devotions and would make the perfect gift for new or expecting parents.

I was provided a review copy of this book by the author through TBCN/BookFun with the understanding that a positive review would not be an expectation and that all opinions expressed would be my own.

About the Book (18 pages):
Children engage with Jesus’ words for them in Matthew 11:28-30. From the Knowing My God series, this book offers three levels of exploration: a quoted Bible passage, beautiful real-world photographs, and supportive text to relate the passage’s meaning to a child’s life. A parent guide gives tips for involving a baby, toddler, and child. In the Graham Blanchard book collection, Jesus Invites Me is a Learn book, which makes personal Bible study accessible to young children who, alongside adults, build a foundation for faith and a lifelong friendship with Jesus. Find out more about our Learn, Absorb and Praise books for children at GrahamBlanchard.com.

Download free grownup tips for each book and find out more about Graham Blanchard's Learn, Absorb and Praise™ board books for children at www.grahamblanchard.com.

The Devoted ~ Review

The Devoted
The Bishop's  Family #3
By Suzanne Woods Fisher

Ruthie Stoltfus is at a crossroads in her life and she's determined to have something more than what she's always known. It's just a question of what. And then there is Luke Schrock who is still charming but heading down a path Ruthie doesn't want to follow - one that is sure to lead to destruction.

As Ruthie ponders her future her father David ponders the future that Stoney Ridge seems be embracing. Can he steer the community he has come to love back to its roots or has the damage from the world beyond done too much damage?

When a young man makes his way to Stoney Ridge to convert to the Amish life he has limited time to achieve his goal. Can Patrick Kelly open Ruthie's eyes to the life she has become too familiar with? Or will her Penn Dutch tutoring be one of her last Amish acts? Only time will tell...

This is the third book in The Bishop's Family series that focuses on the Stoltzfus family. The family has grown up over the series and David as bishop is always a main character with his son Jesse and daughter Ruthie taking staring roles this time as they figure out what comes next in their lives. The change in Jesse from his first introduction to now is one that has been interesting to follow.  The glimpse into Luke's life has been interesting and I'm seeing if he gets his life straightened out. This book can be read without the previous books having been read first.  But the reader will have a better understanding of the characters with reading the previous books in the series and Suzanne Woods Fisher's previous series which are set in Stoney Ridge.

I was provided a reviewer copy of this book by the publisher the no expectations of a positive review, all opinions expressed are my own.


About the Book:
The Amish life is all she's ever known--but will it satisfy her soul?

Restless and adventurous, Ruthie Stoltzfus is right on the cusp of leaving her Amish home. Secretly, she's earned her GED, saved her money--but she can't quite set her journey into motion. Just as everything falls into place, along comes Patrick Kelly. 

Patrick is a young man on a journey of his own. He's come to Stoney Ridge to convert to the Amish and has given himself thirty days to learn the language, drive a buggy, and adapt to "everything Plain." Time is of the essence and every moment is to be cherished--especially the hours he spends with Ruthie, his Penn Dutch tutor.

Ruthie's next-door neighbor and cunning ex-boyfriend, Luke Schrock, is drawn to trouble like a moth to a flame. Rebellious, headstrong, defiant, Luke will do anything to win Ruthie back--and Patrick Kelly is in his way.

Bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher invites you back to Stoney Ridge for a story of dreams deferred--and the promise of hopes fulfilled.

Where Two Hearts Meet ~ Review

Where Two Hearts Meet
Prince Edward Island Dreams #2
By Liz Johnson

Working in the kitchen of Rose's Red Door Inn is the perfect job for Caden Holt.  She feels in her element when she is creating in the kitchen and it is safe and away from the critical eyes of North Rustico. Most of her life Caden felt that she was a disappointment and didn't quite measure up to the expectations of those she had grown up knowing. But this summer everything is about to change.

The inn is in trouble and Marie Sloane has tasked Caden with the job of impressing visiting journalist Adam Jacobs with the splendor of the island and the charm of the inn - starting with her kitchen and culinary skills. Sent to Prince Edward Island Adam is determined to uncover a story that will re-energize his writing and to find a way to deal with his guilt.

The charm of the island is about to work its magic yet again as Caden steps out of the kitchen and shares it with Adam. But when Adam has his story will Caden return to the kitchen or will she leave the door she opened open to the world she's discovered?

Those who read the previous book in this series The Red Door Inn will love the return to Prince Edward Island. Though several of the main characters from the previous book are in Where Two Hearts Meet this book is Caden and Adam's story.  Reading the first book is not necessary to thoroughly enjoy this book.  You can catch up on the Red Door Inn's story later.

I really enjoy getting to know Caden (after her introduction in the previous book) and I totallt love how she feels about lobster. And by the way did I mention the annual North Shore Lobster Cook-Off that Caden just has to win.

Liz Johnson has brought to life a town that I wouldn't mind visiting and perhaps even calling home. A book that is worth getting acquainted with. And I'm eagerly looking forward to my next visit.

I was provided a reviewer's copy by the publisher Revell with no expectation of a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.


About the Book:
In her kitchen at Rose's Red Door Inn, executive chef Caden Holt is calm, collected, and competent. But when her boss asks her to show off their beautiful island to impress a visiting travel writer and save the inn, Caden is forced to face a world much bigger than her kitchen--and a man who makes her wish she was beautiful.

Journalist Adam Jacobs is on a forced sabbatical on Prince Edward Island. He's also on assignment to uncover a story. Instead he's falling in love with the island's red shores and Caden's sweets. 

When Caden discovers Adam isn't who she thought he was, she realizes that the article he's writing could do more than ruin the inn's chances for survival--it might also break her heart.

Another Day Another Dali ~ Review

Another Day Another Dali
A Serena Jones Mystery #2
By Sandra Orchard

Serena Jones is back with another case and thanks to a favor to her grandmother she also has an "unofficial" case that she is working on. With both cases dealing with forgeries of well known pieces of art Serena has a forger to track down. The only question is did the forger switch out the missing original artwork or was someone else responsible for the theft?

When Serena helps out Tanner with a little after hours surveillance her life gets a whole lot more complicated. And unfortunately for her someone notices and assumes they are a couple.  If only she can keep her cousin from talking and her mother from planning a wedding!

The deeper Serena gets into her investigation the more secrets she uncovers - and someone wants to keep their secrets private, even if it means stopping Serena's investigation forever.

Adding to the fun that Serena calls her life is Aunt Martha and her own investigative endeavors. And then there is Nate her building supervisor, who is still a little creepy though maybe a little less than in book 1 (A Fool and His Monet). There is something about Nate that I don't totally trust and the fact that Aunt Martha sees him as a Serena's only chance at a happily-ever-after makes me roll my eyes.

Another Day Another Dali is a fun read. Serena finds herself in some truly interesting situations that just have to bring a smile out. This is a book that is light reading and a pure enjoyment, perfect for getting away from the everyday. I thoroughly enjoyed this second book in the Serena Jones Mystery series as much as the first book if not more. As a side note Serena should never be named Maid of Honor for any wedding.

I was provided a review copy of this book by the publisher Revell with no expectations of a positive review - all opinions expressed are my own.
  


About the Book:
The world of art theft can be a deadly game--one that Serena Jones understands all too well.

When FBI Special Agent Serena Jones takes on the case of a forged Dali painting as a favor to her grandmother, she assumes it will be a typical investigation. Hopefully collaring the thief will also mean finally measuring up in her grandmother's eyes. But the deeper she delves into the forgery and the suspects surrounding it, the less typical it becomes.

The Dali isn't the only painting that's fallen prey to the forgery-replacing thief, raising the possibility of a sophisticated theft ring--one with links to dirty cops, an aspiring young artist, and the unsolved murder of Serena's grandfather. To make matters worse, someone connected to the forgeries seems to be determined to stop Serena's investigation--no matter the cost.

Another Day, Another Dali gives the plucky Serena Jones--and readers--a new high-stakes case to crack. You won't want to miss a single brushstroke!

Wild Montana Skies ~ Review

Wild Montana Skies
Montana Rescue #1
By Susan May Warren

Kacey Fairing is trying to get her life back on track after the helicopter she was flying crashed in Afghanistan. Her time away from the military is suppose to allow her to recover emotionally but returning home to Mercy Falls, Montana, may not be as restful as she was anticipating. With a temporary job, a flash flood, a 13 year old daughter, and her first love converging at this point in time Kacey's life may be about to take another unexpected detour.

Ben King has come home to help his father who was recently injured and is filling in for him at PEAK the local search and rescue operation in Glacier National Park. Ben's life has been one of fame as a country music singer, but his life isn't what the world sees. He's been dealing with a broken heart for years and his career is at a crossroads.

A lie drove them apart but Kacey and Ben are being given a second chance at what could have been. But they will have to peel back the layers that have shaped them since they parted. Can one move beyond the hurts of the past and rediscover the love that meant everything?

There is another story that is running throughout ~ three years ago Ian Shaw's teenage niece disappeared as did her boyfriend. Were they runaways or was there another reason for their disappearance? Ian is an interesting character whom I am interested in seeing in future books, I can't tell if I like him or not.

This is the first book in a new series and instead of Susan's familiar Minnesota the setting is Montana. The new cast of characters introduced have caught my attention and I'm looking forward to getting to know them all better.

I was provided a review copy of this book by the publisher Revell. No expectation of a positive review was expected and all opinions expressed are my own.


About the Book:
The last thing Search and Rescue helicopter pilot Kacey Fairing needs upon returning home to Mercy Falls,Montana, is to run into her mistakes. After a devastating crash during her recent military tour in Afghanistan, she is emotionally broken but ready to start putting her life back together. She just wants to reconnect with her teenage daughter and spend the summer working as the new lead pilot of PEAK Rescue in Glacier National Park.
 
But her mistakes aren't so easily forgotten. Because Ben King is also back in town.
 
Country music star Ben King abandoned his past when he moved to Nashville thirteen years ago to start his career. He hoped to heal his broken heart, caused by losing the woman he loved. But when his father is injured, Ben is called home to help manage PEAK Rescue during his recovery. He doesn't realize his father has ulterior motives until his old flame, Kacey, walks into his house and back into his heart. 
 
Now, with Mercy Falls in a state of emergency due to flash floods, Kacey and Ben will have to work together to save lives. But when secrets are uncovered and old hurts rise to the surface, will they walk away again? Or can they find a different ending to their country love song?

For This We are Soldiers ~ Review

For This We Are Soldiers
Tales of the Frontier Army
By Carla Kelly

This is a delightful collection of 6 short stories that are set during the years of the Indian Wars (1854-1890). Rather than focusing on the men who served this book looks at the women who gave up the lives they knew for the unknown isolation that awaited them.

The stories include Such Brave Men in which newly wed Emma Sanders learns about Army housing and the joys of being ranked. And her experiences with raking make her a professional by the end of her second day at the fort.

Break a Leg brings together three lonely people when a outbreak of injuries tests the skills of the hospital steward Colm Callahan. He calls on the skills of Audra Washington a former slave who is working as a servant for Captain and Mrs. Chambers. An injured actor gives the two just the right push to end their loneliness and find the family they always desired.

A Season for Heroes Jane Stokes learns the one terrible thing being a woman with the army is the waiting. Her father's company is overdue with no idea where they are. With her mother having a difficult pregnancy Jane learns just how true her mother's words are and what makes a man a hero.

Take a Memo some wandering milk cows leads to a war of memos between the  commanding officer and the post surgeon. And in the process of delivering the memos Corporal Theodore Sheppard has an excuse to converse with Millie Drummond who has captured his attention.

Mary Murphy is a short tale about the trials and sacrifices made by the company laundress.

A Leader of His Troops rounds out the selection as the path to happily ever after is impeded by unpredictable mail service and deserters.  When faced with a choice between love or duty Captain  Shaw has a choice to make that will determine whether he will ever be a leader to his troops.  

Of the six stories my favorite is Break a Leg which is the longest of the six and allowed for the greatest character development. The characters are truly ones one could enjoy getting to know.

I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher for reviewing purposes with no expectation of a positive review, all opinions are my own.

About the book:

From master storyteller Carla Kelly comes this collection of frontier tales that take you behind typical army lines and into the hearts of ordinary men and women who perform extraordinary acts of bravery. From handsome hospital stewards and dashing soldiers to courageous children and wives who will pull at your heartstrings, there’s something for everyone’s fancy.

About the author:

Carla Kelly is a veteran of the New York and international publishing world. The author of more than thirty novels and novellas for Donald I. Fine Co., Signet, and Harlequin, Carla is the recipient of two Rita Awards (think Oscars for romance writing) from Romance Writers of America and two Spur Awards (think Oscars for western fiction) from Western Writers of America. She is also a recipient of a Whitney Award for “Borrowed Light,” “My Loving Vigil Keeping,” and “Softly Falling.”