Darkness Rising Book Review

Book Review of Darkness Rising

  by Lis Wiehl with Pete Nelson
"Secrets and murder.  Angels and demons.  Welcome to East Salem"
An East Salem Novel

REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

      Everyone that reads my blog knows that I am a huge Lis Wiehl fan.  I love her work, and so obviously I picked up her newest offering.  IT'S AMAZINGLY GOOD! This is the second part of the East Salem Trilogy, and a sequel to Waking Hours.  It picks up right where the first book left off and immediately blasts you into the world of East Salem - with it's angels, demons, darkness and intrigue.  New characters that were not in the first book are revealed; and again Wiehl does an excellent job at cultivating them.  The research that goes into her writing is evident.  I love that she brought on Pete Nelson again, as his masterful work brings the story alive.  I've recently read that some readers were disgruntled because the book doesn't mention God or Jesus enough.  Is there a rule about that I don't know about?  Sheesh.  Here's my take - it's a BOOK!  The author can do whatever they please; and say whatever they like.  When I read a book it's not because the author needs to line up with my doctrine flawlessly.  I read because I like a solid, thrilling and adventurous book.  If I need a self help book - I will get one.  I don't expect Lis Wiehl to be a self help guru as everyone else out there thinks they are at this point in book-dom.  Just give me a good book and let me read.   Enough of that.  This book is substantial as a good thriller, and enough God in it to make me a happy camper.  Now, I'm forlorn that I have to wait until next September to hear how this hair-raising story ends.  But, I'm excited to announce that Wiehl is introducing a new series (Mia Quinn Mystery), with the first novel, A Matter of Trust, coming out in March 2013.  She's bringing on co-writer April Henry again from the Triple Threat Series.  I think that means it's going to be very, very good.  I recommend this book for ages 14 and up; and for anyone needing an entertaining and clean thriller.

(I received this book free from booksneeze.com as part of their blogging prograom. 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 Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Fall....

Tangled Ashes by Michele Phoenix

90 Days Thru The Bible by Chris Tiegreen

Soul's Gate by James Rubart

She's Got Issues Bible Study Curriculum Review

Women's Small Group Curriculum Review of She's Got Issues by Nicole Unice
"with seriously good new for stressed-out, secretly scared control freaks like us"


REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

      This is a full DVD / book curriculum made for six sessions for a women's small group Bible study.  The group experience package includes candid interviews, individual journaling prompts, group discussion, and insightful and Biblical teaching from beloved author, Nicole Unice.  Each of the six sessions is meant to be one hour long, and incorporates independent reading and study between sessions.  Unice touches on six main issues women deal with on a regular basis:

• Control
• Insecurity
• Comparison
• Fear
• Anger
• Unforgiveness 

     Being a Bible Study veteran, I get skeptical when it comes to new curriculum authors.  I mean, who tops Kay Aurthur and Beth Moore, right?  Well, I was charmingly surprised!  Unice is spot on throughout the entire course.  She speaks as a real life mom and wife, living in our real world.  Even though she does challenge the listener to become unchained from their "issues"; she does so in a biblical, loving and humorous way that's very pleasing.  She's incredibly candid in her book, admitting to things that I've done and wouldn't never share with anyone, let alone the world.  You can hear the Holy Spirit speaking through her, as she opens her heart to what God needs every woman to know.  She teaches you how to live free from the issues, and learn to love well.  Really well.

Check out the trailer below...

(I received this book free from the Tyndale Blog Network as part of their blogging 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 Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.")

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Fall....

Darkness Rising by Lis Wiehl (coming in October)

Tangled Ashes by Michele Phoenix (coming in November)

90 Days Thru The Bible by Chris Tiegreen (coming in November)

Your Heart's Desire by Sheri Rose Shepherd (DVD group experience, coming late Fall)

 

The River Book Review

Book Review of The River

  by Michael Neale

REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

      This story is all about The River.  What river you ask?  I guess you will have to read it to find out.  Yet, basically, the protagonist has always been inexplicably drawn to The River.  Not just any river.  The River - "a ribbon of frothy white water carving its way through steep canyons high in the Colorado Rockies; with rushing waters beckoning one to experience freedom and adventure."  Without giving everything away, a tragedy born from an accident, gives way to fear, bitterness and a monotonous life.  Shackles imprison.  Even so, "you are made for The River." 
     I'm immensely fond of this book.  It's a simple novel that follows the life story of one man, and his mysterious connection with The River.  It's a true testament of how tragedy when you are young can shackle you to fear, anger and resentment.  It's also evidence that once you go back and face the truth, redemption and healing can take place.  NOTE: Although touted on the Christian market, this book does not actually speak about God or Christianity of any kind.  Although, you can easily see the metaphor between God and The River.  The book doesn't necessarily require deep thinking, but the heart matter that comes to the surface does.  Let go, let God.  I recommend this reading to anyone 14 and up.  It also includes and Author Interview and a Reading Group Guide.  Interestingly enough, the author also penned the song Your Great Name now made famous by Natalie Grant. 

(I received this book free from booksneeze.com as part of their blogging prograom. 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 Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Fall....

She's Got Issues DVD Curriculum by Nicole Unice (coming Sept 25)

Darkness Rising by Lis Wiehl

Book Giveaway! The Power of the Prophetic Blessing

The Power of the Prophetic Blessing
by John Hagee

You've read the reviews (read mine here)! You've heard the hype! You can even see the promo video below. Now, it's time to enter to win a copy of this fabulous book for yourself.  That's right!  Right here, right now, all you need to do is post a comment about why you want to read this book.  Then, to complete your entry, either tweet or facebook this blog post link and spread the word.  A winner will be randomly chosen (using random.org) on Saturday, September 15, 2012 after 5:00pm (CST).  Don't miss out on this free copy.  The winner will receive a hard cover copy of this book via mail.  Anyone inside the USA can enter, and there will be no cost to ship.  Good luck to the competitors!

The Power of the Prophetic Blessing Book Review

Book Review of The Power of the Prophetic Blessing

  by John Hagee
"An astonishing revelation for a new generation. "

REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

      This new offering from New York Times Best-Selling author, John Hagee, comes under controversy and argument from the get-go.  Check out any of the major book sellers and you will find mixed reviews.  Hagee maintains that if we really understood, received and believed the blessings that are dispersed throughout Scripture that our lives would be radically changed and God's favor would be lavished upon us.  I can understand why so many people would find disputation with this claim.  But, I do believe they aren't looking at the heart of the book and of Hagee.  He's encouraging you to speak blessing and agreement with God's Word over your loved ones, and those that you encounter.  How can that be unacceptable?  Hagee is taking God's Word at it's verifiable value; drawing from the inerrant Word and presenting promises of blessing that God has been fulfilling since time began.  I personally do not believe the the Old Testament blessings closed with the Old Covenant.  I believe God is the great I AM - the same yesterday, today and tomorrow.
     My husband and I read this book together in the evenings; and both came to the conclusion that God's blessings are for today, are still relevant and are full of power.  We do choose to speak over our daughter and each other with God's prophetic blessings over our lives.  I do speak favorably of this book - but if you are a know-it-all, quarrelsome person, than this book probably isn't for you.  If you are looking for more understanding and direction to affirm the ones you love, than pick up a copy.  If you want to foster and cultivate the confidence that God has set apart for you - you should read this.  Or if you want to WIN A FREE COPY - ENTER TO WIN HERE!

(I received this book free from  Handlebar Marketing as part of their blogging prograom. 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 Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Fall....

She's Got Issues DVD Curriculum by Nicole Unice (coming Sept 25)

The River by Michael Neale

10 Christians Everyone Should Know Book Review

Book Review of 10 Christians Everyone Should Know

  by John Perry (editor)
"Lives of the faithful and what they mean to you. "

REVIEW BY: L. Bankhead

      This book is a compilation of short biographies on 10 Christians from history that have made an impact on the future.   The personalities are spread across the ages, ranging from circa 380 - 2008, and are set in chronological order.   The magnificent people that are covered are:

• Saint Patrick
• Galileo
• Anne Bradstreet
• John Bunyan
• Johann Sebastian Bach
• Jane Austen
• D. L. Moody
• George Washington Carver
• Sergeant York
• William F. Buckley, Jr.  

     I thoroughly enjoyed reading each biography.  The condensed versions of each persons life story and world impact is very easy reading.  The authors give a satisfactory job at providing back story and a world history within each memoir.  I especially enjoyed Anne Bradstreet and Jane Austen, since I have previously delighted in their work.  They both exemplified strong and spirited women, that I could identify with.  I endorse this book for high school students and adults.  This is a great living book resources for students.  It's a quick way to learn about some of the godly people that have graced Earth.  You will be encouraged by their stories and educated about their periods in our Christian history and heritage.

(I received this book free from Booksneeze.com as part of their blogging 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: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.")

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Fall....

She's Got Issues DVD Curriculum by Nicole Unice (coming Sept 25)

The Power of Prophetic Blessing by John Hagee  (blog tour with giveaway coming Aug 31)

The River by Michael Neale

Mondays With My Old Pastor Book Review

Book Review of Monday's With My Old Pastor

  by Jose Luis Navajo
"Sometimes, all we need is a reminder from someone who has walked before us."

      At the beginning of this book, Pastor Jose Navajo finds he has burned his candle at both ends and finds little left to enjoy about pastoring his church.  Day planners, people with problems and lack of inspiration has left him unmotivated to continue on with his ministry.  As a last ditch effort to regain ground, he goes to see his "old" pastor on a Monday.  His pastors message and guidance is so profound, that it leads to many more Monday's of visiting together.  Spoiler: As the Monday's go on, Navajo realizes that his old pastors health is quickly failing and he is coming close to death.  In these last weeks and days of life, a spring of godly wisdom pours from the old pastor into Navajo until his final breath.  

     My mind is still reeling after just finishing this book last night.  It's such a powerful read, that I could barely put it down; and finished it quickly.  Aside from the Bible, there is more truth, love, power, reflection, instruction and promise in this book, than any other book I've ever read.  Whether you are in the ministry or you are a follower of Christ, there is so much to glean from this book.  The fifteen principles that you find in it's pages and life changing and like jewels that you find yourself wanting to protect and cherish.  I cannot stress loudly and strongly enough how important this book is.  I will be buying a copy for my husband and my pastor today.  What a true blessing.  What notable encouragement.  This is honestly a book for all ages, walks of life and will forever be completely timeless and relevant. 

(I received this book free from Booksneeze.com as part of their blogging prograom. 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 Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.")

NEXT UP!  Reviews coming your way this Fall....

She's Got Issues DVD Curriculum by Nicole Unice

The Power of Prophetic Blessing by John Hagee  (blog tour)

Ten Christians Everyone Should Know by John Perry