Book Review: Letters to Katie by Kathleen Fuller

Letters to Katie

Author: Kathleen Fuller
Series: A Middlefield Family Novel
Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (May 7, 2013)

Note: I received a review copy of this book free from Booksneeze.com. The review posted below is based on my personal thoughts while reading the book.

Ratings: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

My thoughts:

Letters to Katie is the third book to the Middlefield Family Series. This book centers to two Amish young couples, Katie and Johhny + Sawyer and Laura.

Initially, it was a little dragging. Didn't like Cora's (Sawyer's grandmother) ways of showing love to Sawyer and I admit there's sometimes a feeling of unease to Sawyer's constant mention of his faith to the Lord. As for Johnny and Katie's story, liked it better than Sawyer and Laura's. The conflict seems better/real to me. I liked their story, painful to very sweet ending. If you are into clean romance books, go out and grab yourself a copy of this book. 

About the book:

Everything changed between them the first time he called her Katie.

Katherine Yoder has loved Johnny Mullet since the two were children, but he’s never returned her affections.

Now Johnny is trying to forge a new life for himself by purchasing a farm and building a business of his own. But times are tough, and he soon learns that he can’t take anything for granted—especially Katherine.

Before Johnny has the opportunity to tell Katherine his true feelings, she’s struck by a serious illness. While Katherine struggles to recall recent memories of Johnny, a surprise visitor comes back into her life, claiming that his letters speak of a history and a future for the two of them.
With the two men vying for her attention and her memory still elusive, Katherine has never felt so torn. But will the solutions to both Johnny’s and Katherine’s problems lie in places neither one has ever considered?

About the author:

I was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, grew up in Little Rock, Arkansas, and currently live in Geneva, Ohio. I've been married to James for 20 wonderful years (really, they have been wonderful!) We have three terrific children, two dogs, and have raised cattle, pigs, and chickens at various times over the years. We would have gone into the goat business, but I had to draw the line somewhere. I started writing in 2000, and published my first short story a year later. Since then I have authored several short stories, novellas, novels, and have done a lot of freelance non-fiction work. I have also worked as an editor. I have a Masters degree in Special Education, emphasis on teaching the blind and visually impaired, and a Bachelors in Early Childhood/Elementary Education. I have taught all age groups ranging from age 4 to age 18. A few of my favorite things: my relationship with Christ, chocolate (of course!), autumn, a satisfying book, good friends, a sense of humor, people who don't take themselves seriously, haunting melodies, NFL football, and did I mention chocolate?

Book Review: The 5 Money Personalities by Scott and Bethany Palmer

The 5 Money Personalities 

Authors: Scott and Bethany Palmer
Paperback: 208 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (January 1, 2013)
Amazon Link

Kindle Edition
File Size: 185 KB
Print Length: 58 pages
Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1401678335
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (January 1, 2013)
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
Amazon Link

Note: I received a review copy of this book free from Booksneeze. The review posted below is based on my personal thoughts while reading the book.

Ratings: ★ ★  

My thoughts: 

I understand from the book description that it is a self-help book for couples experiencing money troubles. I was just expecting something more, you know, like providing budget, saving and financial advices. Well, the authors only explained the money personalities which I didn't really get or I was just too bored reading through it to understand. I'm also not impressed with the author's relationship advices, they were just regular advices I'd get from friends. The book didn't work for me, found myself skimming through so I could be done reading this. 

If you are looking for a financial book, like how to budget, manage, save money, etc., do not pick up this book. Amazon 5 star reviews

About the book

Every couple argues about money. It doesn’t matter if you’ve been married for 40 years or dating for 4 months, money touches every decision you make as a couple—from the $5 cup of coffee to the $50,000 car. And when the two of you don’t see eye-to-eye on how much to spend or how much to save, that’s when arguments turn into ugly toxic fights that leave both persons feeling hurt and angry. It’s why money has become the #1 cause of divorce in the U.S. Obviously, something needs to change. The reason this crisis has not been addressed is because it has never been identified, defined, or given a name. Scott and Bethany Palmer, aka “The Money Couple,” have identified and defined this problem and offer concrete solutions to fix it.

Once you know your Money Personality, you can get to the root of money arguments and start really working together. You’ll discover what has an impact on your loved one’s money decisions, and you’ll learn how to talk about money in a way that’s actually fun! You’ll figure out how to put an end to money secrets and lies once and for all.

It’s not just about money management, and it’s definitely not just about overcoming debt. It is a whole new way of living that will change everything in your relationship. Tens of thousands have already been transformed. Are you ready?

About the author

Scott and Bethany Palmer “The Money Couple”, have dedicated their lives to helping others strengthen their relationships with the 5 Money Personalities. With 43 years of combined financial planning experience, they launched “The Money Couple” and are regulars on national TV and radio and speak internationally about love and money. Scott and Bethany enjoy an active lifestyle in Colorado with their two young sons, Cole and Cade.

Book Review : Gabby, God's Little Angel by Sheila Walsh

Gabby, God's Little Angel

Author: Sheila Walsh

Hardcover: 32 pages

Publisher: Thomas Nelson (September 20, 2011)

Amazon Link

Note: I received a review copy of this book free from Booksneeze. The review posted below is based on my personal thoughts while reading the book.

Ratings: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

My thoughts: 

Gabby, God's Little Angel is the first angel book I've read to my kids, 6 and 3 years old, and they loved this book so much! The illustrations of angels and matching colors are cute and very nice to look at. The story is simple, can be easily understood by young readers. I liked that there are bible verses in the book and a picture of mom and daughter praying at night. I  felt that my kids are now ready for more bible stories after reading this to them. A book I highly recommend to mommies looking for a great book to read to her children.  

About the book:

This first book in a delightful new series offers a comforting message for young readers-God loves you very much and is always watching over you!

What little girl wouldn't love her very own guardian angel? Parents and children alike will be won over by this humorous tale of Gabby, a guardian angel in training who has much to learn about taking care of God's little ones. Her new assignment is to protect a young girl named Sophie, but Gabby soon realizes that watching after Sophie is a bigger challenge than she had expected! After a close call while riding her pony, Sophie learns what the Bible says about guardian angels: "He will put his angels in charge of you. They will watch over you wherever you go" (Psalm 91:11 ICB).

About the Author:

Sheila Walsh is an author, speaker and Bible teacher who has sold over 4 million books. Her heart is to show what happens when your real life meets the Word of God. She is the author of the #1 best-selling line of Christian books for little girls, "Gigi, God's Little Princess." Sheila is the creator of Children of Faith and the Gnoo Zoo, a ministry to children that communicates God's love for them. She is the author of several books for women including "Honestly," "Gifts for Your Soul," "Living Fearlessly," and "The Best Devotions of Sheila Walsh", "The Shelter of God's Promises" and her latest book, "God Loves Broken People and those who pretend they're not." As an accomplished musician, Sheila has recently released the CD "Beauty From Ashes." Sheila, her husband, Barry and their son, Christian live in Dallas, Texas.

Book Review: His Steadfast Love by Golden Keyes Parsons

His Steadfast Love


Author: Golden Keyes Parsons
Paperback: 331 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson Publishers (November 1, 2011)
Amazon Link



Note: I received a review copy of this book free from BookSneeze. The review posted below is based on my personal thoughts while reading the book.


Ratings:


★ ★ ★ 


My thoughts:


His Steadfast Love is a Christian book about two people in love divided by the Civil War. Amanda Belle and Captain Littlefield romance blooms before the war started. The two met while attending a church service. When the Civil War erupted, Captain Littlefield went back to his duty as a captain from the Union Troop (North). Unexpectedly, Amanda's brother signed up to fight for the South - the Confederates States. As Captain Littlefield has so much respect for Amanda's father, being the town's only pastor, he formally asked Reverend Belle's permission to continue communicating with his daughter but was surprised when he refused saying that he simply cannot allow his daughter to communicate further to someone from the North.


The book is rich in American history, it was interesting to read something about the Civil War. In this book, the war started because the North wanted to free the slaves while the South didn't agree with this. I thought the book was okay for a historical novel though I wasn't sure about the romance part. I just didn't feel Amanda's connection with Captain Littlefield. I guess maybe because the author focused on the war. The slaves jargon also annoyed me in some parts of the book.

Overall, His Steadfast Love is recommended for readers looking for a good historical novel.


About the book:


In one of the most heartbreaking times in American history, a Southern preacher's daughter makes a tragic error that pits her against the very people she loves most.


It's the spring of 1861 on the Gulf Coast of Texas. Although Amanda Belle never thought she would marry, her attraction to Captain Kent Littlefield is undeniable.


When Texas secedes from the Union, her brother Daniel marches off to war to fight for the Confederate States and Kent remains with the Union troops.


Her heart is torn between the two men she loves and the two sides of the conflict. When she turns to God for help, Amanda expects direction and support, but hears nothing. Is God listening to her anymore? Does He not care about the atrocities of war-and whose side is He on?


The war is dragging on for much longer than expected, and Amanda struggles between the opposing philosophies of slavery. But after the death of her pastor father, she learns some hard truths about love, the human condition, and God's role in her life.


Amanda must trust God to bring her family through the chaos that threatens her home, her family, and the beloved state of Texas.

About the author:

Golden Keyes Parsons is a popular retreat and conference speaker, author of historical novels and an ordained pastor. Her book, "In The Shadow Of The Sun King," (Thomas Nelson Publishing), first in a four-book series based on her family genealogy, released Fall 2008, and was named a finalist in the ACFW's Book of the Year Debut Author category. The book chronicles the saga of the Clavell family in 17th century France, where, as French Huguenots, they suffer persecution at the hands of Louis XIV's Catholic government. The second book, "A Prisoner Of Versailles," was released September 2009. Book Three, "Where Hearts Are Free" is scheduled to release Fall 2010. 

Book Review: What The Heart Sees by Kathleen Fuller

What The Heart Sees


Author: Kathleen Fuller
Paperback: 423 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson; 1 edition (March 8, 2011)

Ratings: ★ ★ ★ ★ 

My thoughts:

This book is a collection of three Amish love stories, (1) A Miracle for Mirriam, (2) A Place of His Own, and (3) What The Heart Sees. 

The first one I read was the 3rd story, What The Heart Sees. It was a beautiful, sweet and unique love story that had me crying. After reading the 3rd story, I tried reading A Miracle for Mirriam. It was a slow read, I finished reading it after two days. A Place of His Own is a great story too.

This is my first Amish book and I found the second and third stories enjoyable. I definitely look forward to reading more Amish romances! Thanks to the author, this book is a great introduction into Amish fictions.

About the book:
Together for the first time, three Amish romances from Kathleen Fuller.

"A Miracle for Miriam" from An Amish Christmas
Miriam fell for Seth, but he broke her heart. Years later, after he's nearly killed in an accident, Miriam sees him at a Christmas party and notices something is different about him-not just how he looks, but how he acts. When Seth pursues her, she must decide whether to guard her heart or accept his love.

"A Place of His Own" from An Amish Gathering
When Josiah left Paradise the first time, he didn't even say good-bye. Now he's back, ten years later, and he's changed. Why is he so distant and bitter? Where is the boy who used to be Amanda's best friend? Amanda is learning that there are things even a capable Amish girl can't fix. But can she stand there and watch him walk away...again?

"What the Heart Sees" from An Amish Love
A tragic accident rocks a peaceful Amish community, leaving Ellie Chupp blinded and Christopher Bender's future shattered. But they find love and forgiveness in a place they least expect.

About the author:

I was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, grew up in Little Rock, Arkansas, lived in Geneva, Ohio for 16 years and now make my home in lovely Cabot, Arkansas. I've been married to James for 17 wonderful years (really, they have been wonderful!) We have three terrific children and four dogs. e have also raised cattle, pigs, and chickens at various times over the years. We would have gone into the goat business, but I had to draw the line somewhere. I started writing in 2000, and published my first short story a year later. Since then I have authored several short stories, novellas, novels, and have done a lot of freelance non-fiction work. I have also worked as an editor. I have a Masters degree in Special Education, emphasis on teaching the blind and visually impaired, and a Bachelors in Early Childhood/Elementary Education. I have taught all age groups ranging from age 4 to age 18. A few of my favorite things: my relationship with Christ, chocolate (of course!), autumn, a satisfying book, good friends, a sense of humor, people who don't take themselves seriously, haunting melodies, NFL football, and did I mention chocolate?

Note: I received a review copy of this book free from BookSneeze. The review posted above is based on my personal thoughts while reading the book.

Book Review: Outlive Your Life by Max Lucado

Title: Outlive Your Life
Author: Max Lucado
Hardcover: 240 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (September 14, 2010)

Ratings:

★ ★ ★


My thoughts:

This is the first inspirational book that I have read by Max Lucado but not the first time I heard his name. His name is quite famous in the Christian community and that's my reason why I picked this book to read.

I will admit that I love to read inspirational books BUT in order for me to like or enjoy books like this, it must be an easy read. Yes, it was an easy read and I enjoyed most part of the book. It inspires me in a lot of ways, like how to help others and that we were made to make a difference. The author used simple day to day stories which made the book more comprehensible. However, there are some parts of the book that I simply can't get. Maybe because I couldn't understand the Bible references the author used as introductions in each chapter. I read the Bible, but most of the time I'm having trouble understanding the passages.  Overall, I recommend this to anyone who likes to read inspirational books and this can also be recommended for those who conduct lectures or Bible study lesson.


About the book:

These are difficult days in our world's history. 1.75 billion people are desperately poor, natural disasters are gouging entire nations, and economic uncertainty still reigns across the globe. But you and I have been given an opportunity to make a big difference. What if we did? What if we rocked the world with hope? Infiltrated all corners with God's love and life? We are created by a great God to do great works. He invites us to outlive our lives, not just in heaven, but here on earth. Let's live our lives in such a way that the world will be glad we did. - Amazon

About the author:

Max Lucado, Minister of Writing and Preaching for the Oak Hills Church in San Antonio, Texas, is the husband of Denalyn and father of Jenna, Andrea, and Sara. On a good week he reads a good book, has a few dinners with his wife, and breaks 90 on the golf course.





Note: 

I received a review copy of this book free from BookSneeze through the book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 

Book Review: Let's Do Lunch by Roger Troy Wilson

 

Title: Let's Do Lunch
Author: Roger Troy Wilson
Hardcover: 192 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson; 1 edition (May 19, 2009) 

Ratings:

★ ★ ★ ★

My thoughts:

Let's Do Lunch is a motivational book that talks about a unique weight loss program - "eat until you're full and still lose weight". The book is published by Thomas Nelson publishers. 

The author, Roger Troy Wilson was a former obese man who was embarrased by his body that he tried every weight loss program but didn't get lucky enough to achieve his goal of keeping in shape.

The story of an obese man who lost hundreds of pounds made me curious and decided to read more. The book is about a unique weight loss program that he actually accidentally discovered with the help of his wife. This book will help you understand your body and the food you eat. It also has simple and delicious recipes and tips on how to eat out. There is also a 14-day meal guide here. One thing I liked in this book was how he got rid of cravings for sweets and the secret was frozen grapes!

Right now, after trying the program for a month, I can say that my cravings for sweets and any food that I can chew when I'm not doing anything, they are almost gone. Instead of eating sweets like chocolates (eat-all-you-can on weekends) now we are eating frozen grapes which really are yummy and this made me feel less heavier than before.

The book is very easy to read and understand. This is not only for those obese/fat people, it's also for those who just wanted to keep in shape/stay in shape. I'm not fat but I wanted to get rid of those pounds I got after giving birth, so maybe 10lbs is enough (last time I checked, lost 2lbs).

The only problem I had in this book was that I couldn't follow the grocery list because either I couldn't find them or they're expensive and it requires me to  spend more hours in the grocery.  Other than that, the book is good and it's worth buying.

Note: I read that all the proceeds from the book are going to charity.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a review copy of this book free from BookSneeze through the book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Book Review: The Boy Who Changed The World by Andy Andrews, Illustrated by Philip Hurst

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ 

This book is about a boy who changed the world by doing small things in the past. The book tells us that everything we do matters. Even how small and insignificant we think it is, it can be life altering to someone. I read the book to my 4 year old son and I was surprised that I was able to make him understand that the things he does now matters even if he thinks he's only a boy. I love the graphics and the colors are perfect for my young son.

My husband who is a guidance counselor working in a school also enjoyed reading this book. The book is perfect to read for preschool kids and preschool teachers, a great addition to your collection of children's books.







Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a review copy of this book free from BookSneeze through the book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.