Dragons of the Valley by Donita K. Paul

Publisher: WaterBrook Press

Publication Date: September 2010

Format: Paperback

Pages: 384

ISBN: 978-1-4000-7340-5

List Price: $13.99

The peaceful land of Chiril is thrust into war as it faces an invasion. Lead by Tipper Schope and her artist friend Bealomondore, the county of Chiril must defend itself and protect three important statues from the enemy. Using the voice of Wulder, Donita K. Paul intersperses biblical truths throughout her exciting tale. Fans of C.S. Lewis and the Chronicles of Narnia will definitely enjoy this work of Christian fantasy fiction. Since the novel is geared toward adolescences and young adults, the writing style is simple and easy to follow. Although the plot is enticing, elaborate descriptions sometimes detract from the action. Even though I have not yet read the first book in this trilogy, Dragons of the Valley was still understandable. I recommend this book to others and look forward to reading Books 1 and 3 of the series. 

Rating: 4 / 5 - Fun read

Note of Disclosure: I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

The Shelter of God’s Promises by Sheila Walsh

Front Cover

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Publication Date: February 2011

Format: Paperback

Pages: 244

ISBN: 978-1-4002-0244-7

List Price: $15.99

Keeping faith can be difficult during hard times. Sheila Walsh’s The Shelter of God’s Promises reassures readers of God’s promises and unfaltering reliability. Each of the ten chapters are focused on a different theme: Walsh addresses promises, provision, peace, confidence, love, grace, hope, strength, more/something better and home. Whether you are feeling alone, broken, loveless or poor, The Shelter of God’s Promises will life your spirits. Walsh intersperses personal narratives and in-depth Bible study throughout her book. Each chapter has a designated Bible study guide with assigned readings from the Bible and discussion questions. Walsh’s book isn’t just for people experiencing difficult times. Readers at any stage of life will benefit from its messages. Although this is a useful tool for Bible studies, Walsh’s personal anecdotes occasionally distract her message. However, the positive features of the book outweigh its faults.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com 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 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Learning to Encourage Yourself by Hephzibah

Publisher: Dorrance Publishing

Publication Date: 2009

Format: eBook

Pages: 24

ISBN: 978-1-4349-0347-1

List Price: $5.00

This self-help book helps readers overcome difficulties caused by low self-esteem, employment issues, childhood bullying and other problems. Hephzibah opens by revealing obstacles in her own life. She then draws readers in by posing numerous questions about issues that commonly lead to depression. The majority of the book focuses on passages from the Amplified Bible that illustrate God’s love for His followers. This short book is a jumping point for readers who are not currently Christian or are struggling with their faith. The list of Bible verses push readers to use religion as a means of encouragement.

Rating: 3.5 / 5 - Quick pamphlet that offers some encouragement, but not life changing

You can pick up a copy at the online bookstore:

http://store.yahoo.com/cgi-bin/clink?dorrance+vWVLFn+index.html+

I received a complimentary copy of Learning to Encourage Yourself as a member of the Dorrance Publishing Book Review Team. Visit dorrancebookstore.com to learn how you can become a member of the Book Review Team.

Blaze of Glory by m. garzon

Publisher: Virtualbookworm.com Publishing

Publication Date: June 2011

Format: eBook

Pages: 340

ISBN: 1602648107

List Price: $5.99

Horse enthusiasts and general readers alike will enjoy m. garzon’s first novel, Blaze of Glory. With two jumpers and impressive skills, Tea Everson is on her way to the top of professional equestrian sporting. Unfortunately, everything changes in the blink of an eye and Tea’s life is turned upside down. Tea’s tragedy becomes more painful as she struggles to suppress her newly found passion.

Blaze of Glory highlights m. garzon’s strong descriptive abilities. Tea’s show jumping scenes are incredibly well-written and allow readers to experience the thrill. m. garzon describes the feel of the horses muscles, the rein’s in Tea’s hands, and the physical effort required to guide a horse over show jumping obstacles.

The overall plot of the novel is enticing for teenagers and adults. It moves at a good pace that keeps readers on edge, but leaves time for description and background information. The characters are dynamic. Tea, her stepfather, twin brother and friends all undergo transformations as the novel progresses.

Although Blaze of Glory is aimed toward young adults, readers of most ages will enjoy it. However, the novel does address sexual issues. Overall, highly recommended to readers interested in novels dealing with animals, romance and growing up!

On the Road to Success (With Self-Analysis Exercises) by Eunice Elizabeth Nash

Publisher: Dorrance Publishing Co., Inc.

Publication Date: 2010

Format: eBook

Pages: 52

ISBN: 978-1434907783

List Price: $5.00

On the Road to Success (With Self-Analysis Exercises) encourages people in their personal and professional endeavors. Attaining success isn’t something that happens overnight: it requires preparation and determination. Eunice Elizabeth Nash gives readers the insight needed to excel at all pursuits.

Nash’s book is brief and useful. Her advice is clear. She urges readers to set goals, take steps to achieve them and keep an upbeat attitude. Although the information isn’t new, it's a good reminder of the simple things forgotten as we struggle to achieve success. The self-analysis exercises set the book apart. The questions really help readers determine their goals and track their progress.

Rating: 4 / 5 - Useful, but common advice

You can pick up a copy at the online bookstore:

http://store.yahoo.com/cgi-bin/clink?dorrance+vWVLFn+index.html+

I received a complimentary copy of On the Road to Success as a member of the Dorrance Publishing Book Review Team. Visit dorrancebookstore.com to learn how you can become a member of the Book Review Team.

Self-Imaging from Head to Toe by Ainsley E. de Salazar, R.N.

Publisher: Dorrance Publishing Co., Inc.

Publication Date: 2009

Format: eBook

Pages: 82

ISBN: 978-1-4349-0178-1

List Price: $5.00

Every woman wants to look and feel her best. Ainsley E. de Salazar helps women with cosmetics, clothing, fitness, proper eating habits, hair care and other important issues. Salazar even addresses plastic surgery and home decorating. Although much of the information is basic, it is a useful reminder for some of things women tend to forget. For example, Salazar explains how the body uses specific vitamins and nutrients. She also provides a guide to the different moisturizers, toners, and facial masks women should use to maintain youthful skin. Self-Imaging from Head to Toe is very clear and can easily be completed in one sitting.

You can pick up a copy at the online bookstore:

http://store.yahoo.com/cgi-bin/clink?dorrance+vWVLFn+index.html+

I received a complimentary copy of Self-Imaging from Head to Toe as a member of the Dorrance Publishing Book Review Team. Visit dorrancebookstore.com to learn how you can become a member of the Book Review Team.

Like a Thief in the Night: Stolen Soul Book II by S.R. McDanniel

Publisher: PublishAmerica

Publishing Date: May 19, 2011

Format: eBook

Pages: 178

ISBN: 9781456099657

List Price: $24.95

With mass murder-suicides happening across the planet, Dr. Matthew Reiber is recruited to find a solution because of his expertise in thought transference and telepathy. As the second installment in S.R. McDaniel’s series, this book makes several improvements over the first. He steps away from his overly descriptive writing and focuses more on the book’s plot. Although this makes for a faster read, fans of McDaniel’s incredibly descriptive passages may be slightly disappointed. The book is much easier to follow and get into than the first. I did not find myself lost, confused or having trouble keeping the characters straight. The overall plot surpasses Book 1. McDaniel’s combination of mass murder, telepathy and religious cults makes for a pleasurable read. The book is creative and easily holds the reader’s attention.

However, I did find several small problems with the book. During a couple crucial points in the plot, McDaniel stops to include background information. For example, when the protagonist is searching for a missing person at the Old Irish Church, the book cuts away to a detailed description of the text the religious cult follows. The information is interesting, but I wanted to quickly get passed it and return to the plot. The book also needs to be edited more carefully. Although slightly annoying, the typos do not make the book unreadable. Overall, I really enjoyed reading Like a Thief in Night and would recommend it to others because of its thrilling storyline.

Miles Away…Worlds Apart by Alan Sakowitz

Publisher: Legacy Series Press, LLC.

Publishing Date: 2010

Format: eBook

Pages: 240

ISBN: 978-0-615-38240-1

List Price: $27.95

There is risk with any investment. Unfortunately, too many investments are schemes run by dishonest people willing to steal the life savings of others. In his book, Miles Away…Worlds Apart, Alan Sakowitz reveals his role in taking down the largest Ponzi scheme in South Florida’s history. Through his book, he also manages to provide an introduction to the Jewish faith and an overview of his close-knit hometown.

Sakowitz provides background information for readers not familiar with legal and business concepts. This information is always clear and does not distract from the book. He does the same for important holidays and features of Judaism. Sakowitz juxtaposes the scheme run by Scott Rothstein with the kindness found in his own community. Whereas Rothstein willingly steals from anyone, Sakowitz’s community is focused on helping everyone in need.

Anyone interested in current events will enjoy this well-written book. The suspense of the book will even interest readers who prefer fiction. Highly recommended.

Opusland by Stephen Beever

Publisher: Dorrance Publishing Co. Inc.

Publishing Date: July 28, 2009

Format: eBook

Pages: 82

ISBN: 978-1434901828

List Price: $5.00

Imagine planet Earth and its inhabitants after a global catastrophe. Humans evolve and mutate into new species. Land, cattle and other food sources slowly wither. Although survival is the primary goal for many, some still desire money and dominance in this horrid setting. Talented author Stephen Beever explores what happens as a clan flees their homeland as it is being pillaged. He provides vivid descriptions of the harsh landscape and animal-like characters. Readers see exactly what the characters see and feel the tension of the landscape as the characters journey onward. Although the descriptions thrive through the entire book, the plot lags somewhat in the beginning. It is difficult to connect all the characters and follow the plot. As the book moves forward, the focus of the plot becomes clearer. Once things get moving, it is difficult to put the book down. Readers who enjoy fantasy and science fiction will enjoy this short futuristic work.

You can pick up a copy at the online bookstore:

http://store.yahoo.com/cgi-bin/clink?dorrance+vWVLFn+index.html+

I received a complimentary copy of Opusland as a member of the Dorrance Publishing Book Review Team. Visit dorrancebookstore.com to learn how you can become a member of the Book Review Team.

Stolen Soul: In The Beginning by S.R. McDaniel

Publisher: PublishAmerica

Publication Date: April 19, 2010

Binding: eBook

Pages: 130

ISBN: 978-1448955312

List Price: $24.95

This modern retelling of Saul turned Paul chronicles the 30 year killing spree of Preacher as he attempts to murder the last remaining Tinsley heir. S.R. McDaniel craftily interweaves elements of fantasy into the book to create a thrilling tale that keeps the reader on the edge of his seat.

Although the plot is good, it is sometimes hard to follow. At times, I had trouble discerning the flashbacks from the current plot. The beginning chapters are focused on different characters. It was somewhat difficult at first to connect the different stories together. This made the book seem jumpy. However, everything smoothed out as I continued to read.

McDaniel has a knack for descriptive writing. He provides beautiful descriptions of mundane parts of the plot. For example, he provides a wonderful description of coffee brewing. These scenes are especially great for literary analysis and close reading

The book really sparkled towards the end when more information is given on Preacher and his cult. While I struggled through the beginning if the book, I couldn't put it down at the end. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian thrillers with lots of descriptive writing and fantasy.

Just a Nice Guy by Phil Torcivia

Publisher: CreateSpace

Publication Date: May 4, 2011

Binding: eBook

Pages: 362

ISBN: 978-1456499051

List Price: $12.98

Phil Torcivia is truly hilarious. In his book, Just a Nice Guy, Torcivia explores relationships and the difficulty of finding love. He provides a collection of funny anecdotes, crazy lists and odd tidbits that come together to form a great book. He even gives some positive, uplifting advice, especially for people suffering from low self-esteem. Just a Nice Guy is one of those books you can’t summarize: you just have to give someone a copy and say “read this.” Torcivia’s book actually made me laugh out loud every few pages. Every few chapters, I wanted to hunt down Phil on Match.com and slap him for his mischievous comments. Other times, I had to just nod and agree with Phil. Unless you are put off by books with profanity, sexual jokes and crude humor, you absolutely have to read this book!

Hollywood Nobody by Lisa Samson

Publisher: NavPress
Publication Date: August 2007
Binding: Paperback
Pages: 224
ISBN: 978-1-60006-091-5
List Price: $12.99

At fifteen years old, Scotty Dawn has more freedom than she desires. She sporadically travels to different movie sets as her mother prepares food for films. Even though her mother is not involved in Scotty’s schooling, she manages to home school herself. As she files her assignments away into scrapbooks that are not read by anyone, she plans to attend college. Life gets lonely for Scotty. She turns to her blog, Hollywood Nobody to connect with other people. Her life on the road exposes Scotty to many people, some who become like family. Unfortunately, Scotty experiences some distance with her mother, whom she calls Charley. Scotty knows her mother is keeping some huge secret from her. Scotty suspects it has something to do with her non-present father. As Scotty learns more of the secret, she realizes how dark it really is.

Lisa Samson’s Hollywood Nobody is written for a young adult audience. Samson does an amazing job connecting with teenagers. Scotty’s dialogue and action—from blogging about celebrities to love and dating—accurately resemble the average teen. Samson also motivates teenage girls to embrace their natural beauty rather than mimic the appearances of actresses and models. She even sneaks in lessons about drugs and alcohol. Samson’s book, however, does not come off as preachy. Although the book reveals Scotty’s struggles with finding Jesus, the book does not try to force religion on teenagers. On the other hand, Scotty has the same hesitations and questions about Christianity that an average young adult would have. Overall, young readers and adults will enjoy Lisa Samson’s Hollywood Nobody.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress as part of their 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 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

The Dumpster: One Woman’s Search for Love by Becky Due

Publisher: Due Publications

Publication Date: 2010

Binding: eBook

Pages: 202

ISBN: 978-0984621408

List Price: $12.95

Everything seems to be going wrong for Nicole in Becky Due’s humorous novel, The Dumpster. Nicole is a twenty-something year old banker who is slightly overweight and suffers from low-self esteem. Having been recently dumped by her boyfriend on Valentine’s Day via DVD, Nicole is on search for a new love. Unfortunately, her troubles are only made worse by a smelly dumpster placed outside her bedroom window. Little does she know, this disgusting dumpster is the solution to her problems.

The Dumpster is a humorous, quick read. The characters—with the exclusion of Nicole’s worse dates—are all lovable and realistic. Most women will be able to identify with Nicole in some way: failed dates, envious of best friend’s marriage, lack of self-esteem, weight problems, or other issue. Since Nicole’s character is rather promiscuous, the novel gets racy at times. The novel also relies on bathroom humor quite often. Still, Due’s novel is a great fun, light read. If you enjoy reading romantic comedies and are not bothered by mature content, you will want to check out The Dumpster.

Conspiracy on the Hudson by Donald R. Keelan

Publisher: Dorrance Publishing Co., Inc.

Publication Date: 2010

Binding: Hardcover

Pages: 254

ISBN: 978-1-4349-0866-7

List Price: $25.00

German Nazi assassins are placing explosives in President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s home at Hyde Park and poisoning New York’s water supply in Donald R. Keelan’s novel, Conspiracy on the Hudson. To make matters worse, the deadly scheme is planned to take place while Winston Churchill is visiting FDR. With little information about the attack, Secret Service agents must protect their President, Churchill and the country. The truth of these events is finally revealed 70 years later by Professor Michael Ferguson during a meeting with the current president.

Since the events are described as a failed assassin attempt against FDR, the conclusion to the novel is obvious. However, the suspense of the novel is in no way reduced. The entire book is action-packed; rarely a page goes by without some twist or crucial information. The characters, setting and events are so believable, that you nearly forget you are reading a work of fiction. Conspiracy on the Hudson is a great read for anyone interested in political-thrillers, historical works, or fast-paced fiction. I will definitely be re-reading this novel as well as Keelan’s other books The Secret of Camp David and Robert Todd Lincoln’s Hidene and How It was saved 1975-1978.

You can pick up a copy at the online bookstore:

http://store.yahoo.com/cgi-bin/clink?dorrance+vWVLFn+index.html+

I received a complimentary copy of Conspiracy on the Hudson as a member of the Dorrance Publishing Book Review Team. Visit dorrancebookstore.com to learn how you can become a member of the Book Review Team.

The Next Christians: How a New Generation is Restoring the Faith by Gabe Lyons

Publisher: Doubleday Religion

Publication Date: 2010

Binding: Hardcover

Pages: 240

ISBN: 978-0-385-52984-6

List Price: $19.99

It seems as if America is slowly shifting away from its traditional Christian roots. In his book, The Next Christians, Gabe Lyons claims Christian American is indeed changing—but for the better. Younger generations are incorporating their faith into daily life instead of only worshiping in traditional churches. These new Christians embody six characteristics, each of which is dealt with in its own chapter.

1. provoked, not offend
2. creators, not critics
3. called, not employed
4. grounded, not distracted
5. in community, not alone
6. countercultural , not “relevant”

Opposed to these new Christians, are the separatists (insiders, cultural warriors and evangelizers) and cultural (blenders and philanthropists). Well-meaning Christians may find themselves part of these groups. For example, philanthropists view their yearning to help others as their defining mark. Although helping others is an important part of Christianity, philanthropists are doing it only to prove their self-worth.

One of the most impressive and useful sections outlines practices that help Christians remain grounded and not distracted. These include immersing one’s self in scripture instead of entertainment, observing the Sabbath, pursuing deep relationships with others and being postured by prayer. In addition to these, Gabe Lyons makes many other compelling points. Unfortunately, traditional Christians may feel left out, or even offended at times.

Note of Disclosure: "I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review."

Live Like You Mean It by T.J. Addington

Publisher: NavPress

Publication Date: 2010

Binding: Hardcover

Pages: 171

ISBN: 978-1-60006-673-3

List Price: $17.99

Busyness does not equal productivity. Sure, we can fill each of our waking minutes with non-stop work, but what we really achieving other than stress and its consequences? In his book, Live Like You Mean It, T.J. Addington challenges his readers to examine our lives and prioritize what truly matters. In order for us to have meaningful lives, we must live out what God has planned for us. To guide us on this journey, Addington instructs his readers to reflect on the following ten questions:

1. Why am I here?

2. What is my sweet spot?

3. What will I live behind?

4. What really matters?

5. What is my plan?

6. How do I best recharge?

7. How can my life have a ripple effect?

8. How do I relate to God?

9. Will I say yes to God?

10. What shall I do next?

Each of the questions is dealt with in its own chapter, in which Addington provides his personal answer. He gives practical advice that leads to a fulfilling life. It is nearly impossible to finish this book and not be affected by its message in some way. Addington touches on so many topics, including marriage, employment, education, the loss of a loved one and time-management, that each reader is bound to identify with some aspect of the book.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress as part of their 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 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Posers, Fakers, & Wannabes (Unmasking the Real You) by Brennan Manning and Jim Hancock

Publisher: TH1NK Books

Publication Date: 2003

Binding: Paperback

Pages: 182

ISBN: 978-1-57683-465-7

List Price: $12.99

Teenage years can be brutal. There is a constant pressure to fit in and be liked. Unfortunately, this pressure often causes teenagers to conform to what they believe others want them to be. In his book, Posers, Fakers & Wannabes, Brennan Manning shows readers the problem with developing false personas, and the freedom that can be gained when this activity is stopped. His main premise relies on the fact that God loves us just as we are. There is no need to hide who we are from God, or anyone else.

Although the book is intended for teenagers, it does not read like a typical self-help book meant for this age group. In fact, most teenagers probably will not be familiar with many of Brennan’s references. For example, he only alludes to older movies such as Woody Allen’s Zelig (1983) and Frank Capra’s It’s a Wonderful Life (1946). Brennan also relies heavily on anecdotes from classic literature, a feature I personally enjoyed. At some points, the amount of quoted material distracted from Brennan’s main points. Nevertheless, Posers, Fakers, & Wannabes is a great book for teaching both teenagers and adults to remove their masks and accept who they are.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress as part of their 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 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Chasing Francis by Ian Morgan Cron

Publisher: NavPress

Publication Date: 2006

Binding: Paperback

Pages: 256

ISBN: 978-1-57683-812-9

List Price: $14.99

In his historical novel, Chasing Francis, Ian Morgan Cron explores the life of St. Francis of Assisi. Instead of simply writing another biography of the early Catholic priest and friar, Cron retells the story through the perspective of a modern evangelical minster, named Chase falcon, who has lost his faith. Midway through a service, Chase breaks down and admits his growing doubts about Christianity. Shocked and outraged, the church elders advise Chase to take a leave of absence from the church. Chase travels to Italy where he is lead on a spiritual pilgrimage that introduces him to the ancient teachings of St. Francis.

Cron seamlessly incorporates theology lessons and history into his novel without distracting from the plot. The novel includes several of Chase's journal entries that reflect on what he is learning about Francis. Although Chase is a minster at a megachurch, he comes across as somewhat childish with respect to the Catholic faith. Early in his journey, he often jokes about religious activities the priests engage in. By having other characters correct and explain things to Chase, Cron is given more opportunities to insert historical information.

The book's plot is entertaining and enjoyable. Most characters are dynamic and believable. Maggie's story, however, is slightly cliché. She is an ex-convict whose young daughter has recently died. Instead of returning to drugs and crime, she becomes an important figure in the Chase's church. Nevertheless, Chasing Francis is a great read for anyone interested in learning about St. Francis, or wanting to read a Catholic conversion story.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress 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 Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

The TAD Diet: Tasteful, Amazing, and Digestive by Eleanor B. Tuttle

Eleanor B. Tuttle's The TAD Diet provides an eating plan for people suffering from digestive problems. The short book is based on Tuttle's own struggle with digestive issues, and desire to lose weight. The majority of the book consists of plans for three meals and one snack. The same meals are meant to be consumed six days a week, and the seventh day is a "free meal" day. Although the meals are creative and healthy, they are very small. For example, lunch consists of Jell-O, a spoon of lite whipped cream and a glass of water. This diet will definitely lead to weight loss. However, no information is given that proves the diet provides sufficient nutrients and calories. While I cannot imagine following the diet six days a week, it is a good plan for one or two days of light eating.

You can pick up a copy at the online bookstore:

http://store.yahoo.com/cgi-bin/clink?dorrance+vWVLFn+index.html+

I received a complimentary copy of The TAD Diet as a member of the Dorrance Publishing Book Review Team. Visit dorrancebookstore.com to learn how you can become a member of the Book Review Team.

I Quit! Stop Pretending Everything is Fine and Change Your Life by Geri Scazzero with Peter Scazzero

As Geri Scazzero explains in her book, I Quit! Stop Pretending Everything is Fine and Change Your Life, quitting is vital to gaining a healthy spiritual and psychological state. Quitting is not simply admitting defeat, but rather "dying to the things that are not of God." Over the eight chapters of her book, Scazzero outlines the areas in her life in which she needed to finally quit: being afraid of what others think, lying to herself and others, dying to the wrong things, denying natural emotions, blaming herself and others, overfunctioning, faulty thinking, and living someone else's life.

Overall, I Quit! is a great guide that teaches readers to give up the things in life that are draining happiness and threatening relationships. Scazzero's advice is practical, and can easily be implemented into real life situations. Although the book is geared toward Christians, secular readers can easily benefit from it. Scazzero addresses God and religion, as well as the need for deep prayer. However, the majority of the book offers self-help advice and anecdotes from her personal life. At times, the numerous personal stories were a bit distracting. Many, however, contributed because they illustrated how Scazzero's quitting method improved her life significantly.

One of my favorite sections of the book examined the nine Enneagram personality types. These are the perfectionist, the giver, the achiever, the romantic, the observer, the dutiful, the adventurer, the asserter, and the peacemaker. While each of these personality types appear positive, they are actually unconstructive, and must be given up in order to live the life intended for us by God. Like all other problems addressed in her book, Scazzero provides a useful solution for each of these problematic personality types. I highly recommend this book to others.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Zondervan 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 Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Don’t Waste the Pain: Learning to Grow Through Suffering by David Lyons and Linda Lyons Richardson

“The amazing thing about childlike faith is not only that you believe without doubt, but you accept no without questions.”

Suffering and pain often affect the faith of Christians. It is sometimes difficult to understand why God would allow good people to experience horrible things. Siblings David Lyons and Linda Lyons Richardson address this topic in their book, Don’t Waste the Pain: Learning to Grow Through Suffering. As Linda learns her ovarian cancer has returned, David’s 12-year-old son is diagnosed with a serious form of cancer that kills 98 percent of its victims. David and Linda explain how these depressing circumstances and seemingly unanswered prayers are all part of God’s larger plan.

Much of the book consists of entries from David and Linda’s personal journals that document the pain they are each suffering. It demonstrates how they were able to maintain their faith. The lessons from this book are very inspirational and touching. David and Linda teach readers how to grow spiritually through painful and dark times. This is a great read for anyone experiencing difficult times. I highly recommend Don’t Waste the Pain to others.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress 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 Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Sabbath (The Ancient Practices Series) by Dan B. Allender

“The Sabbath is the day to experiment with beauty that teases your hunger to know more glory….What intrigues, amazes, tickles your fancy, delights your senses, and casts you into an entirely new and unlimited world is the raw material of Sabbath.”

Remembering the Sabbath is perhaps the most misunderstood of the Ten Commandments. It is typically seen as a day of forced religious attendance and rest. In his book, Sabbath (2009), Dan B. Allender provides a much different interpretation of this holy day. He claims that the Sabbath should not focus on merely abstaining from labor and sitting idly in a recliner. Instead, the day should involve activities that bring us the greatest pleasure. Fly-fishing, cooking with a loved one or reading a favorite author are all examples of Sabbatical celebrations, according to Allender. As he explains, personal delight is the key to keeping the Sabbath holy.

Although Allender does provide an interesting explanation of the Sabbath, his book is disappointing in several aspects. First, there is very little biblical support for his arguments. The majority of the book consists of anecdotes from Allender’s life. Since the book claims to “expel the myriad of myths about this ‘day of rest’”, I had expected a more scholarly approach to the topic. Second, there is little practical advice on how to actually honor the Sabbath correctly. He instructs the reader to plan a day of extreme pleasure, but does not provide any real advice on doing this. Instead, Allender alludes to how he and his wife celebrate the Sabbath. Finally, Allender makes bold claims that are not fully supported. For example, he argues that Sabbath should be rooted in nature without connecting this claim to any scripture.

In spite of its flaws, Sabbath is still a decent read. I find Allender’s conception of the Sabbath more appealing than traditional practices. While this book is not designed for serious or academic Bible study, it is a quick read that introduces a new view of the Sabbath.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com 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 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Preservation of Health: Managing Carbohydrate Intake for Life by Mark A. Falco, D.M.D

Many popular foods are filled with simple carbohydrates that elevate blood glucose levels without providing nutrients. In his book, The Preservation of Health: Managing Carbohydrate Intake for Life, Mark A. Falco explains how high-carbohydrate diets are responsible for many illnesses including depression, diabetes, stress, fatigue and osteoporosis. Falco provides a useful and complete guide for reducing carbohydrate intake.

Falco’s book is a great text that covers nearly all aspects of health. He connects carbohydrate intake to number of illnesses not usually connected to sugar. At times, Falco packs so much information into chapters that is difficult to get through the book. For example, he provides a number of case studies to support his claims. Although interesting and useful, these did cause the book to drag on. However, the book as a whole was excellent. It provides a clear explanation of how to understand nutritional values in food. Falco includes several average American meals and explains how healthy each is. A comprehensive overview of vitamins and their use is also included. Overall, The Preservation of Health is a great tool for improving one’s health. I highly recommend this book to others.

You can pick up a copy at the online bookstore:

http://store.yahoo.com/cgi-bin/clink?dorrance+vWVLFn+index.html+

I received a complimentary copy of The Preservation of Health: Managing Carbohydrate Intake for Life as a member of the Dorrance Publishing Book Review Team. Visit dorrancebookstore.com to learn how you can become a member of the Book Review Team.