Woman of Means by Thom Lemmons

Physical exercise is at first a hobby and then a reprieve for Lydia as she grows older. Her will to run reflects the tenacious heart inside her that longs for something more. Leaving her family behind is difficult for Lydia, but hope for the future propels her on. It is that abiding hope and tenacious spirit that will lead her to God.

The reader of this story has a unique perspective as the narrative starts at the end of Lydia's life and the reader learns about Lydia's past as her life is concluding. The book seems to be Biblically accurate. Though Lydia is mentioned in the Bible and a few facts are given about her, the majority of her life story remains obscure. That's where the fiction portion comes in.

Unfortunately, for some reason, I found this book to be depressing. I am not sure if it is because Lydia is literally dying from the beginning of the book until the end or if it is something else. Though the plot of the book moved a little slow for my liking, the conclusion was pretty good. I did enjoy the very unique character of Xerxes. However, because of the depressing nature of the book, I have to recommend renting this book from the library before buying.

Today's Quote

"The most difficult thing I have ever had to do is follow the guidance I prayed for."

- Albert Schweitzer

Sammy and His Shepherd: Seeing Jesus in Psalm 23

Sammy is a young sheep who loves his shepherd and is loved in return. When he encounters a lonely sheep outside of his flock who has no name and a careless shepherd, Sammy befriends her. Sammy's new friend is eventually purchased from her careless shepherd by Sammy's watchful shepherd and named Precious. Sammy and Precious follow their shepherd to the high places and learn life lessons as they go. Ultimately, Precious comes to learn that she can trust her shepherd because his love is never-ending.

The story of Sammy and His Shepherd parallels Psalm 23 of the Bible. Psalm 23 is perhaps one of the most well-known chapters of the Bible and it is certainly worth teaching to children. Each chapter of Precious and Sammy's story is titled with a phrase from the Psalm and deals with the theme of that phrase. There is a “Talk About It” section at the end of the book which can help the parent and child delve deeper into each theme presented. This section includes additional Bible verses, questions to talk about and suggestions of things to do. This practical application section reinforces the simple, truthful teachings set forth in the story.

The illustrations in this book were beautiful. However, I wished there had been more of them. There was basically one illustrated page per chapter. At times this allowed for there to be two pages that were just straight text. Other than that, it is a great childrens book that has the potential to teach Biblical lessons and encourage parent-child devotional time. I recommend this book for children ages 4 to 9.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Reformation Trust Publishing. 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."

Masquerade by Nancy Moser

At the age of 19, Charlotte “Lottie” Gleason is spoiled, rich and nearly engaged to Conrad Tremaine, the son of a wealthy merchant in America. Lottie openly acknowledges that she likes her self-centered lifestyle, but desires true love over an arranged marriage to a wealthy young man. When Lottie and her maid, Dora Connors, travel from Wiltshire to America for the purpose of Lottie meeting Conrad, Lottie convinces Dora to swap places with her. Lottie will go to Dora's distant family relation and Dora will masquerade as Charlotte Gleason. But the plan does not go as smoothly as Lottie anticipated and soon Lottie is destitute with no job and no family. All of the sudden, marrying Conrad Tremaine and all of his money does not sound like such a bad idea. But what about Dora? Does she truly love Conrad Tremaine? What will become of her and Conrad if her true identity is revealed?

Overall, Masquerade was an entertaining book to read. The plot moved at a good pace and some of the twists were pleasantly unexpected. The depictions about the lives of the immigrants and the poor class of people were intriguing and seemed realistic. However, I did not like the character of Lottie Gleason from beginning to end. I suppose that in the beginning, she is not meant to be likeable, but even as she went through her change of heart, I still did not like her. As she was one of the main two characters, this meant that a substantial amount of the book was about her. On the other hand, Dora, Conrad, Sven, Dr. Greenfield and the Scarpellis were very likeable and entertaining. This is, of course, a personal preference about characters. I would not discourage anyone from buying the book based on this, but I would suggest renting it from the library first.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers as part of their Blogger Review 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."

Pearl In The Sand by Tessa Afshar

Rahab was forced into prostitution at the age of 15 to save her family. She deplores her trade, but manages to achieve financial independence and opens an inn for travelers and the occasional client. When Jericho's destruction seems imminent, she hides two Israelite spies and obtains a promise that she and her family will be spared from death. Rahab's choice to join the nation of Israel was easy to make, but hard to hold to. She faces rejection and Salmone, the man helping her family integrate into Israel, downright terrifies her. She knows what he sees – a prostitute, impure, unlovable woman. What she does not know is that miracles happen. Miracles of love, healing and reconciliation.

The story of Rahab has never been more romantic or powerful than it was while reading this book. I waited several days after reading the book to write this review. I just wanted to sit on it and think. I also went to the books of Joshua and Matthew in the Bible to read the times that Rahab was mentioned. I'm happy to say that the basis of the book seems to be right in line with Scripture. Of course, some of it is fictional. The Bible tells nothing of how Rahab and Salmone met and fell in love. However, the fictional parts were told in such a way that it was believable. The plot was well-written and filled with romance – a wonderful combination.

Pearl in the Sand is definitely a keeper. I highly recommend it and I have no doubt that I will read it again.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Moody Publishers. 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."

The Reluctant Entertainer by Sandy Coughlin

Many women struggle with the idea of entertaining in their own homes. Perfectionism is engrained into many of us at a young age and continues to manifest itself in our adult lives. Author Sandy Coughlin invites all women who are reluctant to invite others into their homes to experience the freedom and joy of entertaining. Hospitality does not include the idea of being perfect, spending a lot of money or having to impress others. Coughlin shows that true hospitality and entertaining is about reaching out to those around us and opening ourselves to them. The Reluctant Entertainer also includes recipes, practical advice and tips to save money.

I appreciated The Reluctant Entertainer because I am a very reluctant entertainer. My husband's parents visit about twice a year and occasionally I will have a girlfriend over to hang out. I would never invite someone who I don't know well over for dinner. Coughlin spends a lot of time in the book talking about perfectionism and for good reason. Perfectionism is rooted in fear and probably a tremendous factor in the reluctance of many would-be entertainers. I appreciated how she also gave ideas about hospitality and entertaining outside of just inviting people into my house. Personally, I think the idea of taking a meal to someone is a lot more appealing then having guests over. At least it's a good place to start.

This book would make a great housewarming or wedding gift.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishing as part of their Blogger Review 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."