There have been a multitude of books written on the subject of forgiveness, but this one’s approach is very different. Forgiveness is a struggle for everyone at one time or another, and there are those that find it impossible. I found this book more powerful than those with all the “dos” and “don’ts” because the author used real life stories. The reader can relate to the people and circumstances in different accounts that will remind them of times they have not forgiven. Seeing God’s grace in action really touches your heart. You find yourself thinking, “If they can do that so can I.” In many cases the wrongs done to the person will make the personal offenses you experienced seem small and trite. The Amish have a special corner on forgiving in that they have made it a part of their foundational beliefs and worship of God. For them, it is not optional; it is a must to obey the Lord. In reading this book and in the past, I am awe struck at the magnitude of injustices they truly and completely forgive, in comparison to the small offenses most people hang on to. Each story begins with an Amish proverb. They were so profound I wanted to copy them! Some I plan to use in our church bulletin. All the testimonies were interesting and powerful. They are all followed by “Reflections of Peacemaking” and “Plain Truth”. “Reflections” asks thought provoking questions for the reader to look into their track record concerning forgiving others. Some even draw you back into people in the story comparing yourself to the one wronged and their response to being hurt. “Plain Truth” shares interesting facts about the Amish. This book touched my heart and inspired me. It is a great read for anyone, but especially if you struggle with holding grudges and not others. Everyone may not be Amish, but the Lord expects the same degree of forgiveness from us, His children. No one could ever do to us, what our sins did to Him. We owe it to Him to forgive others. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Baker Publishing Group in exchange for an honest review. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions I have shared are my own.

I was thrilled to see a book of Easter stories minus the worldly trappings. This book is a treasury of 27 stories by world famous authors, some dating back as far as the 1800’s. Some were translated from other languages. I found this extremely interesting as I saw the details the eyes of someone from another country.
The book has many different kinds of stories; allegories, fables, parables, and legends. In their own special way, they all focus on Christ and His gift to us. Some of the writings are very serious and somewhat heavy reading, while others are whimsical and fun. Many moral and spiritual examples are presented through the author’s unique writing style, but not all pertain directly to the scriptures.
The description says that the book excellent for reading to children. I do not think most of it would be something younger children would be interested in or understand. An amazing collection of true classics.
I received this book free from Handlebar. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

When I was saw this book was by Astrid Lindgren, the author of, Pippi Longstocking, I knew it would be good! The Pippi books were favorites of mine and my children in our childhoods. Written in 1956, this book will take you back to the time when children’s books were not only entertaining and fun, but also wholesome. Oh how I miss books like this!
While doing chores, Rasmus finds a silver coin and sees it his opportunity to flee his orphanage home. He wants to find a family that will want him and he feels he can do better on his own. Being only 9 years old, he quickly finds life on the outside is hard, especially for a little boy all alone.
While staying in a barn one night, he meets a hobo named Paradise Oscar; a kind hearted and wise man. Rasmus quickly bonds to Oscar, who takes him under his wing caring for him and teaching him the ways of the road. The story of their travel together is quite the adventure. Lots of mystery, drama, excitement, and unexpected surprises draw the reader into this wonderful tale.
The characters are colorful and yet believable. As an adult I found it an extremely good read and engaging. I am so happy this book was brought back into print! We need more children’s books like this! I can’t wait to share it with my grandchildren. I also plan to read it to their classes at school.
I received this book free from Handlebar. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

I am not sure even where to begin! First of all this is a dynamic, enthralling novel. I found myself putting it down only to turn around and start reading again. It is skillfully and beautifully written. I am amazed at how the author took so many serious issues, diverse characters and seamlessly wove them all into an entertaining, outstanding story.
Colom Dryden is a thirteen years old teenager. His father is a pastor; his mom is a full time home maker. His dad is a dynamic pastor of a large church and is also has sought after as a family counselor. They are the perfect family, right? Like so many families what appears on the outside is not what happens at home. Colom continues a repeating nightmare that terrifies him. So much so that his behavior has become erratic; he is about to be kicked out of his private school, and his parents are shocked to find he has a suicide plan.
Fiona, his mother is beside herself and wants to get Colom counseling. It is tearing her apart not knowing how to help her son and fearful she will lose him. She is basically handling all this on her own. David, his father, is totally absorbed in his work. He loves is son but is caught in the middle of a demanding ministry, his church’s expectations him as a pastor and his family, frustration in dealing with the problem and home, and pride. He refuses for Fiona to seek outside counseling. She is trying to hold the family together but her husband’s impatience and outbursts are driving Colom deeper into his problems and further away from his family.
In desperation she seeks out a friend from her past to help and goes to another country, determined find her son the help he needs before it is too late. Then the story really begins to unfold. Secrets begin to be revealed, opening up painful wounds.
The author deals with many difficult, frightening problems families face. Problems readers may be grappling with as they read. It also brings to light that our past must be dealt with and keeping secrets does not always protect the ones we love. You will not fail to be surprised at what is revealed!
I received this book free from Kregal Publications. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

This book was more than a novel! The setting may be in the 1890’s but the social issues that are involved in the story are still very relevant today: abuse, substance abuse, broken relationships, terminal illness and more. It doesn’t just stop with the suffering and pain involved. The reader is drawn into feeling and experiencing the affects these things have on the lives of those facing such problems; their struggles and turmoil physically, mentally, emotionally, and physically. The author goes the full circle and also shows God working in such a wounded life. The reader also sees His love, guidance, healing, and comfort.
Mercy in her 20 years of living has faced more heartache and hardships that most people do in a lifetime. Her father is sick, cruel, and abusive to her, her mother, and others. Sadly, he is also the pastor of a church in a small Appalachian community. Everyone turns a head to his evil out of fear and his position, including Mercy’s mother. Everything comes to a head when her father dies and her mother confused and grieving kicks the young woman out her home.
Mercy leaves determined to make it alone, no matter what it takes. Even as she travels, God is already preparing to bring her to people that will show her His true love and mercy. On her way, she meets a young preacher, a true man of God. He helps her and takes her to another mountain community where she meets a Christian couple that takes her in. Along with the preacher, they show her patience and conditional love. Her heart is very hardened and she is overwhelmed by bitterness and distrust toward everyone. They tenderly guide her never chiding her for her outbursts or false ideas. They look past her rough and angry exterior and see a much wounded heart. Here she experiences problems of a different kind, not only personally but in the lives of her new family she is growing to love. I found it beautiful how they faced every tragic event with a strong faith in God.
The author does a beautiful job of handling very delicate subjects tastefully and showing that God has power to heal hearts, no matter how devastating the damage is that has been inflicted. She leaves no doubt the influence Christians have on others by allowing Christ to live through them and touch the lives of those in need.
It is one of the most unusual books I have ever read. The reviews may make it sound depressing, but it is incredibly uplifting and hopeful. I anxiously await the opportunity to read more books by Sproles.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kregel Publications in exchange for my honest review. The opinions I expressed are my own. I am not required to write a positive review .

I cannot get enough of Mel Starr! His books are amazing! Sometimes writer’s books will be extremely similar in many ways, but not Mr. Starr. Each book I have read is so varied in the plot and characters, plus there is always something new I learn historically. It is like historical lessons about the 1300’s and super entertaining murder mysteries rolled into one!
I am absolutely fascinated by Master Hugh’s practice of medicine during that time, and also challenging aspects of day to day living. It is obvious the author has done his research with his vivid descriptions and the detailed imaginary he brings to life through his writing. I appreciate especially how clean and wholesome his books are.
Master Hugh plans to make a quick trip from his home in Bampton to Oxford to buy himself Bible he had long wanted. The only other Scripture he had was the book of John which he had copied by hand. He had 30 shillings with which to purchase it which would be the equivalent to over $800 today! Incredible considering most homes now have a minimum of 1 -3 Bibles. Arthur, the Sylvester Stallone of grooms, was going with him for protection. Hugh especially wanted to hurry back as his wife was expecting their second child soon.
As they near an Abbey his attention is drawn to a large group of noisy birds feasting on something. He and Arthur stop to investigate and make a gruesome discovery. A novice from the Abbey lay dead and his face destroyed beyond recognition by the hungry fowl. After reporting the body to the Abbey, Hugh is ready to continue on his journey. Abbot Thrustan is weak and frail, and very persuasive. Knowing of Master Hugh’s skills he asks him to find the murderer. He offers to pay for and send a midwife to stay with Hugh’s wife Kate and also to give him a Bible for free. The latter Master Hugh and his pocket book can’t refuse.
While medicine, science and crime investigation in this era are minimal, Hugh Singleton more than compensates by making astute use of every faculty at his disposal. Even upon finding the body he was paying close attention to clues others would miss. He was a shrewd judge of character and could discern body language and attitudes of others with astonishing accuracy. His keen sense of humor and sharp mind bring the story even more to life.
Anxious to collect his Bible and return home, he is discouraged by the lack of clues and the few leads he does have coming to a dead end. I even shared in his disappointments and even began to wonder how he would ever solve this murder. As his investigation progresses he not only finds himself and Arthur in danger, but uncovers even greater hidden crimes. Every time I was sure I knew who was guilty, new evidence would appear and the plot would change!
Until reading this book I knew little about the lives of monks in medieval England. I found it quite intriguing and never realized how restrictive and ritualistic their abbey life was. One of my favorite parts of the book was Hugh’s primitive practice of medicine; it is always a different medical situation. Once again I was surprised the striking difference between healing then and today. I can’t imagine suffering as people did with so little to help them.
This book is filled with excitement, mystery, surprises, history, and faith. An exceptional book written by one of the best historical fiction writers of our time!
I received this book free from Kregel Publications. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

When I started reading this book, I must confess my expectations were not the greatest. I assumed it would to be dry and boring, unable to really teach me anything didn’t already know. I am happy to say that was not the case! I found it interesting, entertaining and enlightening. No there wasn’t any new information I have not studied or heard of before, but I understand now that teaching me something new was not the author’s goal. He wanted share the things I already knew but to see them in a different light.
The book is an easy read and the chapters are only a few pages each. However he got right to the heart of the matter in those few pages. The book centers on making the main thing, the main thing, and that is the Gospel which is also Christ. You can’t separate the two, yet somehow we do. The Gospel should be the hub of the wheel of our lives and everything else should radiate from it. That includes all things: emotionally, physically, spiritually, and mentally. Somehow as we travel through time we have a tendency to make one or more spokes of our “wheel” the hub.
We can become so familiar (and not in a good way) with being a Christian, our relationship with God and what His Word says that we unknowingly become detached and complacent. We “know” It, but is it a living, breathing, all-encompassing part of our daily existence? I believe most people would have to say “no”. This book encourages us to take a fresh look at Gospel until it becomes what the Lord intended it to be, the center of our being.
I loved Mr. Medder’s humor and his anecdotes were spot on! I also appreciated the many scripture references to look up and further my study. His direct questions were undeniably probing, causing me to look inward. He certainly encouraged me to take a closer look at myself and gave me the desire to make the Gospel the focus of every aspect and every moment!
I received this book free from Kregel Publications. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

I truly enjoy giving gifts, especially baked ones. Not many people bake nowadays or make special dishes because they are so busy with work and family activities. This is one of the reasons I was so interested in this book. I must admit the “gourmet” was a little intimidating at first. I imagined 10 step recipes with uncommon ingredients and odd combinations. Boy was I wrong and pleasantly surprised!
While the recipes require a little extra effort to make them special, nothing was labor intensive. Ingredients were common and easy to find. Nothing is “strange” or bizarre. I found the recipes to be easy to make and tasty, with an extra attention to detail.
It is a beautiful cookbook! It did not have a lot of pictures of the finished product which I would have liked, but the author more than made up for it in her attention to detail and bonus ideas not usually seen in cookbooks. The cookbook is divided into 6 sections: small tokens, big batches, pennywise, pound foolish (special recipes for the person who has everything), feel better (gifts to nurture and comfort), and special delivery (gifts to mail). The latter
As you can see the chapters are creative, but wait till you see the recipes! I especially liked the section at the end of each recipe named “wrap it up.” Here the author not only gives you a clever, imaginative idea to package and present your gift. This includes instructions and a list of supplies you will need. Every recipe tells you the preparation time, degree of difficulty, cost range, if it can be frozen or shipped, if the recipe can be tripled or doubled and the shelf life. I really appreciated the last detail. I hate to bake gifts and not know how far ahead I can make them or how soon the recipient needs to eat them.
This is an exceptional cookbook! A treasure to own!
I received this book free from HARVARD COMMON PRESS which requires an honest, though not necessarily positive, review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Seventeen old Betsie Troyer, and her teenage brother and sister, Abijah and Sadie, are left to fend for themselves when their parents leave the Amish faith and move away. They are faced with the shame of their parent’s shunning because they accepted Christ as their Savior. The children pray fervently that their parents will see the error of their ways and return. In the mean time they must carry on with Betsy trying to be both father and mother to her siblings. The pressure she faces is incredible.
Charley, Betsie’s intended beau since childhood, comes frequently to assist with the chores and repairs that require a man. He seems sincerely devoted in helping her, but is he? Michael, an Englisher friend of many years who has moved away continues to write her. She treasures his friendship, as he truly understands her.
To add to her already heavy load, a man she has worked for in the past leaves his 12 year old daughter Shelia to stay with the Troyers. He is leaving town to try and bring his wife back that has left them. This creates conflict not only with her siblings, but also with her church and Charley. A shocking tragedy reveals who really has Betsie’s best interest at heart.
Just when I thought no one could come up with an Amish novel with a unique story line, Ms. Reed has managed to! Most of the time it is the youth leaving the church for the world, but this time it is the parents. I was shocked and upset with her parents for abandoning their children. Especially with all the responsibilities that are a part of an Amish household.
The story was made even more interesting by all the details of the situations the author so vividly describes. So much so in fact, I felt pressure with all Betsie was dealing with! She was a brave and dedicated young woman, but there were so many decisions that she needed her parent’s wisdom for. All in all, she does an incredible job.
The characters were interesting. I enjoyed Shelia. Her youthful innocence, candidness and strong, childlike Christian faith unaffected by others, was delightful! Psalm 8:2, “Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast thou ordained strength . . .” aptly describes this little lady!
As the story progresses, the integrity and motives of each individual was gradually revealed. I liked this because it added suspense, and excitement to the plot. I was inspired by Betsie’s taking every problem and decision to the Lord in prayer. She continued trusting and asking even though circumstances seemed unchanged. Through her trials she begins making her own choices separate from the opinions of other and the rules of her culture.
I did not read the previous book but I feel this one stood alone. I look forward to reading it and the 3rd sequel to come in 2016. Well written, entertaining and hard to put down!
I received this book free from the publisher through Kregel Publications which requires an honest, though not necessarily positive, review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

After you read this book, it cannot help but change how you view your life. We all have problems and sorrows, some tragic. This common ground we share. But how many of us will turn our grief into hope and use the scars that are left as a stepping stone to help others? It is far too easy to sink into despair and focus on our pain. This is the story of one young man that did not.
In 1994 Fredrick’s family was torn apart by the Rwandan genocide. He was only 15 years old at the time. Fredrick was already living in hardship and poverty when blood massacre began in his country. He lost family members and watched horrific atrocities, but that was not where it ended for him.
Fredrick was on a bus to his aunt’s, to help her after the death of his uncle. Terrorists stopped the bus and brutally beat all the passengers, including him. Then handing him a machete, the men ordered him to kill everyone on the bus. He refused and said, “My God won’t let me do that.” Those words of faith cost him dearly. They severed his hands and ordered him to be stoned. God miraculously saved him from death, sent help and lead him to a hospital where there “just happened” to be a surgeon skilled in the type of surgery he needed.
In a country where you must work for your living, having no hands was almost a death sentence. There are no facilities for rehabilitation or therapy. He shares how he struggled through all the emotions, fear, and desperation. When it seemed all was hopeless, he was accepted by an orphanage, where with love and support he healed not only in body but spirit. Through his strong faith in God, he began to teach himself to do things that would be impossible for one with no hands.
Throughout the book you see the hand of God guiding Fredrick to the new life He has prepared for him. The Lord consistently led him to just the people he needed.
Instead of wallowing in self-pity Fredrick was open to God’s plan. He developed a burning desire to help others like him, and he did it with no money, little education, and a devastating disability. You will be nothing short of amazed at all he accomplished.
His life is an illustration of Genesis 50:20, “But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.” Fredrick’s account will forever stay with me, not only in strength, perseverance, and forgiveness, but also in an unfailing trust and faith in Christ. I don’t think I will ever look at my problems and trials quite the same. This is a book you will want to read!
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers 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