Book Review: The Lost Melody

 

From The Back:

"Haunting. Riveting. Filled with hope."--Michelle Griep, author of Lost in Darkness

When concert pianist Vivienne Mourdant's father dies, he leaves to her the care of a patient at Hurstwell Asylum. Vivienne had no idea the woman existed, and yet her portrait is shockingly familiar. When the asylum claims she was never a patient there, Vivienne is compelled to discover what happened to the figure she remembers from childhood dreams.

The longer she lingers in the deep shadows and forgotten towers at Hurstwell, the fuzzier the line between sanity and madness becomes. She hears music no one else does, receives strange missives with rose petals between the pages, and untangles far more than is safe for her to know.

But can she uncover the truth about the mysterious woman she seeks? And is there anyone at Hurstwell she can trust with her suspicions?

Joanna Davidson Politano casts a delightful spell with this lyrical look into the nature of women's independence and artistic expression during the Victorian era--and now.

My Reflections:

Where do I start? I have never in my long history of reading come across a book quite like this. It touched my soul and moved me in ways that I can't even flesh out. I feel like it would do the book an injustice if I revealed the inner contents, for this reason I will keep my review subjective and let you enjoy the unfettered essence within.

England 1886 sits Hurstwell  Lunatic asylum a place filled with shadows, deep darkness and immense pain. We are able to take a glimpse into the Victorian era of the misunderstood. The fine line between sanity and madness. 

The characters were so well developed that the story came alive for me. I was moved from emotion to emotion harmoniously flowing with the melody of the story. Ah... I never wanted it to end, I was left crying at the injustices while rooting for the truth to be had. Politano weaves faith gently throughout the entirety of the book adding depth and humanity. We are reminded that in the darkness there is light and hope. We can touch others lives even mired in the darkness, we just have to reach out, even when all seems lost.

The romance is heart achingly beautiful, tender and moving. It almost seemed out of place at the start, but as the story progressed it really added an element of humanity. 

I am completely amazed at the Politano's exceptional ability to take a story and craft it into a work of art. This book just took writing to a whole new level.

 Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Joanna Davidson Politano

Joanna Davidson Politano is the award-winning author of Lady Jayne Disappears, A Rumored Fortune, Finding Lady Enderly, The Love Note, and A Midnight Dance. She loves tales that capture the colorful, exquisite details in...

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Book Review: When Twilight Breaks

 

From the Back:

Munich, 1938

Evelyn Brand is an American foreign correspondent determined to prove her worth in a male-dominated profession and to expose the growing tyranny in Nazi Germany. To do so, she must walk a thin line. If she offends the government, she could be expelled from the country--or worse. If she does not report truthfully, she'll betray the oppressed and fail to wake up the folks back home.

Peter Lang is an American graduate student working on his PhD in German. Disillusioned with the chaos in the world due to the Great Depression, he is impressed with the prosperity and order of German society. But when the brutality of the regime hits close, he discovers a far better way to use his contacts within the Nazi party--to feed information to the shrewd reporter he can't get off his mind.

As the world marches relentlessly toward war, Evelyn and Peter are on a collision course with destiny.

My Reflections:

Sarah Sundin has certainly done her homework in her newest novel 'When Twilight Breaks'This novel will give readers a glimpse into the tumultuous year before the official start of WW11.

Gripping storyline, powerful immersive writing and courageous characters round out this novel Beautifully. Sarah Sundin has a way of penning her stories so that the reader is completely entranced, her writing is so atmospheric I dare readers to put this book down!

Evelyn Brand a foreign reporter finds herself working in Munch Germany year 1938. She is striving to keep up and excel in a man's profession. She finds herself having to balance how she writes, too much will not only put her career in danger but also herself as well.

Peter Lang is the "hero" in this story. He is clever, hard-working and puts the needs of others before his own. What more could you ask for? I enjoyed watching his faith blossom throughout the entirety of this story.

Sarah Sundin presents an overall gripping read that packs a punch. With just the right amount of suspense, danger and a little pinch of romance, this book will not disappoint!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Book Review: A greater Story

 

Each of us is living a story

Sam Collier's story started with rejection. When he and his twin sister were born, their biological mother gave them up for adoption. Though Sam loved his adoptive family, he sometimes felt like a puzzle missing crucial pieces. But God reached into Sam's life and showed him that he didn't have to write his own story, because it was really God who was telling his story through Sam.

In this deeply personal yet remarkably universal book, Sam Collier tells his inspiring story of abandonment, sacrifice, gratitude, and rescue, revealing how God is always doing something bigger and better than we might imagine. He has a purpose and a plan for every single one of us, and he is always telling his greater story through our trials, our relationships, and our triumphs.

If you're in the middle of a challenging time and long to know that God is working through it, Sam's story will teach you how to see the big picture, even when there are pieces missing.

My Reflections: I had not heard about Sam Collier's story so didn't quite know what to expect from his memoir.

I was so surprised and moved by Collier's life journey. I absolutely adore people's life stories, they are so interesting and moving, everyone has a story it's just if they are brave enough to tell it. 

Collier does an exceptional job of weaving his personal story in with God's amazing grace and redemptive plan for each and every one of us. It is always amazing to look back and see where God has worked in the lives around us. It may seem pretty bleak in the short term but God always had a greater plan for all of us, sometimes we just have to hold on tight with eyes pointed upward. 

If you are looking for an uplifting and inspiring book this one is definitely a must-read!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Sam Collier:

Sam Collier is a pastor, speaker, writer, and host of the A Greater Story with Sam Collier TV show and radio podcast that currently airs in 100 million homes. He also communicates nationally and internationally as a speaker and regular contributor at...

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Book Review: Veiled In Smoke

From The Back:

The Flames Took So Much.
She Can't Lose Her Father As Well.
Meg Townsend and her sister, Sylvie, seek a quiet existence managing the family bookshop. Meg feels responsible for caring for their father, Stephen, whose spirit and health are both damaged from his time as a prisoner during the Civil War. Her one escape is the paintings she creates and sells in the bookshop.

Then the Great Fire sweeps through Chicago's business district. The fiery explosions and chaos stir up memories of war for Stephen as he runs from the blaze and becomes separated from his daughters. Days later, when the smoke has cleared, Meg and Sylvie manage to reunite with him. Their home and shop are lost, and what's left among the ashes may be even more threatening than the flames, for they learn that a close friend was murdered the night of the fire--and Stephen has been charged with the crime. After he is committed to the Cook County Insane Asylum, where they cannot visit him, Stephen feels as lost to them as the shop that now lies in rubble.

Though homeless and suddenly unemployed, Meg must not only gather the pieces of her shattered life but prove the truth of what happened that night, before the asylum truly drives her father mad.

My Reflections:

This book had me utterly spellbound from page one. I adore Historical fiction and this book was accurately retold in a way that was honouring and evoking in a cohesive way. You can always count on Jocelyn Green to pen an authentic moving plot where you fall in love not only with the characters but for the entirety of not only the era and the city of Chicago as well.

Meg and Sylvie Townsend are sisters brought together by the caring of their Civil war veteran father who has PTSD. Together the girls try hard to keep their father safe while running their little book store under the apartment. When the great fire hits, the town is in a panice with looters and families running for their lives. In this chaos Stephen the girl's father gets scared and hides, but then is framend with his friends murder. Will Stephan be coherint enought to explain what happened or will he be destined to live out the rest of his years in the Cook County Insane Asylum? 

PTSD an often debilitating condition that ends up devastating many familys and individual living with it. Without help this disability can render an utter shutdown of the mind and body.

 In some people the feelings of helplessness and hopelessness from the constant nightmares and ever-present flashbacks start encasing a mind into a impenetrable fortress where the suffering individual sees no way out. Statistically deaths by suicide for popople who struggle from PTSD are 26.3 percent higher than the advrage population. 2020 data colloected from: Centers for disease Control and Prevention

PTSD was also refered to solders heart back in the day, it was treated with strong medicine which left patients unable to participate in life. These indivduals were mostly housed in insane assuylms of jails. 

Authour Jocelyn Green excells in her ability to resech all of her hystorical novels she is well known to do this with dedication, meaningful plots couple that with amazingly detailed backdrops and you have one fine writter!

 

Book Review" Braver Stronger Smarter

From the Back:

"This book helped me remember how brave I am!"--AnnabelleWant to know something? Girls who worry the most are some of the smartest, kindest girls around. The worry you feel happens because you care deeply about things and people. You try hard and want to do the right thing, which is wonderful. But it's not fun to feel pressure, is it? That's why Sissy Goff wrote this book. To help you know how brave and strong and smart you really are.

Whether you're a mom, dad, aunt, or grandmother, you can help the girl you love overcome her worry and anxiety. This interactive guide--created for elementary-age girls but helpful for all ages--teaches you and your girl practical ways to work through overwhelming emotions. With fun stories and writing and drawing prompts to guide her, your girl will feel empowered, knowing she is deeply loved by a God who is bigger than her fears.

Also available from Sissy Goff! Raising Worry-Free Girls, a companion book that provides more in-depth information and strategies for parents and educators.

My Reflections:

I had the opportunity to set the stage for this book as I was able to read "Raising Worry-Free Girls" This first book has much more depth and insight but more geared to the parents. I thoroughly enjoyed the first book and thought this book would be a fantastic way to connect with my daughter in a meaningful and safe way.

This second book "Braver Stronger Smarter" Could be done independently or with a parent. The foundation is laid for teaching girls the vocabulary to express their feelings. This is such an important skill for any child. The neat thing about this book is that it is adaptable and multifaceted, girls have the opportunity to notebook as they read through with a parent or independently. The note booking is unique because it takes all learners into consideration. An example is your child could respond with writing or drawing out the emotions they are feeling. Providing the opportunity to create different avenues of communication and expression.

If you have a young girl between the ages of 7-13 this would definitely be a fantastic tool to work on with your daughter (s).

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Sissy Goff MEd, LPC-MHSP

Sissy Goff, MEd, LPC-MHSP, spends most of her days counseling girls and their families, with the help of her assistant/pet therapist, Lucy the Havanese. Since 1993, Sissy has worked as the director of child and adolescent counseling at Daystar...

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Book Review: Stay

From the Back:

What do we do with everyday aches, disappointment, and pain?
We can run. Or we can stay.It may sound counterintuitive to stay with our aches and disappointment. We prefer comfort, so our default response is to withdraw, avoid, numb, and neurotically fix. But what if Jesus is pulling out a chair and whispering, Stay?

Anjuli Paschall invites you to stop running from your pain and to discover that the deep end of your story is the way to intimacy with Christ. She extends a daring invitation to stay with your everyday aches, your guilt, your loneliness, your anger, your anxiety, your longings, and even your apathy. True power and transformation are found in the very places we resist the most.

It's here, in the staying, where we move from merely knowing in our heads that God loves us to believing it in our hearts.

Stay is an invitation to sit with God at the table of your soul--and be free.

My Reflections: 
Stay, I love how God works in our lives! Most people can't do much else than stay at home right now. I never expected COVID 19 to even reach this type of impact, yet God knows our hearts our needs, those deep painful ones that you don't share with anyone for fear that your intense emotional state will become a reality. This book by Anjuli Paschall is a breath of clean fresh cleansing air. My soul does feel parched and dry as the sierra desert, however, God knows. This book was such a gentle nudge to steep in those feeling, let them come and accept them for what they are. So ironic because that's the exact advice I am getting from professionals. 

This book will really make you examine how you react to the stressors around you, be it the kids home from school, having no job to go to or working from home. Paschall reminds us that isolation doesn't have to be a frightening process. Feelings my friends are just that, they change like the wind. Being present and engaged in the day you are living, connecting to God in deep and meaningful ways brings what our hearts desire, He fills the empty and dry. 

I loved this quote" Anxiety is the Lighthouse in the storm leading me back to my tender need for God" Anxiety, fear all these things are opportunities to run to our saviour. I admit I'm kind of not doing a great job of applying these beautiful words to my life, but little step by little step, perhaps I will get there. Grace is oh so good, God knows, this book exemplifies our need to feel that pain, the loneliness and use it for growth. God's got our back babe. (Family joke, but such truth!)

You won't regret online ordering this book, or perhaps put it on your kindle. The writing is soft, loving and oh so encouraging, so I think in these uncertain times this book was launched divinely at the perfect timing.  

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Anjuli Paschall

Anjuli Paschall is the founder of The Moms We Love Club and writes regularly for (in)courage, a widely followed online community of Christian women. She grew up encircled by an orange grove in San Diego. After graduating from Point Loma Nazarene University,...

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Book Review: You Are What You Love

You are what you love. But you might not love what you think.

In this book, award-winning author James K. A. Smith shows that who and what we worship fundamentally shape our hearts. And while we desire to shape culture, we are not often aware of how culture shapes us. 

We might not realize the ways our hearts are being taught to love rival gods instead of the One for whom we were made. Smith helps readers recognize the formative power of culture and the transformative possibilities of Christian practices. 

He explains that worship is the "imagination station" that incubates our loves and longings so that our cultural endeavours are indexed toward God and his kingdom. This is why the church and worshiping in a local community of believers should be the hub and heart of Christian formation and discipleship.


My Reflections: I was not quite sure what I was expecting when I chose this book. The cover was eye-catching and the title jumped out at me. 

I have never read James Smith's works, so I didn't know his writing was geared to church theologians and high minded individuals. I have to admit I was disappointed with this book, not because of what it contained, but the level of academia. 

I found myself lost, confused and slightly bored. The first two chapters are quite good and have some solid things to ponder but after that, I was a lost cause. I guess my brain has a hard time pondering deeply right now?

The primary idea of the book centers around that we were created to be lovers, not thinkers. In other words, humans were created to have something to love. That would be God, right? I completely get that but, Hmm, I'm not sure I agree with all the opinions expressed in this book, but then again it was out of my league. 

If you love to dig deep into thinking about big ideas, love theology this may just be a great book for you. It will have a happy life at our church library.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Book Review: An Uncommon Woman

From The Back:

Unflinching and plainspoken, Tessa Swan is not your typical 18th-century woman. Born and bred on the western Virginia frontier along with her five brothers, she is a force to be reckoned with.

Quiet and courageous, Clay Tygart is not your typical 18th-century man. Raised by Lenape Indians, he returns a hero from the French and Indian War to the fort that bears his name, bringing with him Tessa's long-lost friend, Keturah, a redeemed Indian captive like himself.

Determined to avoid any romantic entanglements as fort commander, Clay remains aloof whenever he encounters the lovely Tessa. But when she is taken captive by the tribe Clay left, his hand--and heart--are forced, leading to one very private and one very public reckoning.

My Reflections:

I am over the moon to have been able to review this novel. I can always expect to be captured within the pages of a Laura Frantz novel. Her characters are always so multidimensional  they leap off the pages and become apart of your life for the short time you spend with them.

Tessa had to be my favourite, goodness she made the story! Down to earth, compassionate and humble willing to serve with a open and kind heart, she drew my admiration for her. I can't imagine the living in this time period with all these trials, hunger, wild animals, and the incessant fear of Indian attacks. This Young woman is a force to be recond with!

Clay has overcome so much in his life. Having been taken at a tender age from his family by Natives has given him experiences and heartache more than any man should endure, yet he is strong courageous and willing to do what it takes to do the right thing.

Historical romances are some of my favourite reads so it is no surprise that I adored this book for its many characters, the way it wove faith and human kindness into the storyline was simply splendid. 

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Laura Frantz

Laura Frantz is a Christy Award winner and the ECPA bestselling author of eleven novels, including The Frontiersman's Daughter, Courting Morrow Little, The Colonel's Lady, The Lacemaker, and A Bound Heart. Learn more at...

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Book Review: Christmas In Winter Hill

From The Back:

Spend this holiday season in a town you'll never forget--and never want to leave.
"That sign says Home of Christmasville--what does that mean? Does Santa Claus live here?" Emily giggled like she knew better.
"What do you think?" Krista grimaced at the plywood Christmas tree alongside the welcome sign. It could use a new coat of paint.
"I know, Santa isn't really real. But are we near the North Pole now? You said it snowed a lot here." Emily peered eagerly out the window, almost as if she expected to see snowflakes flying.
"It does snow here," Krista confirmed. "But it's still late autumn, Emily." She pointed to where some orange and gold leaves still clung to a large tree, vibrating in the afternoon breeze.
"But why did that sign say Home of Christmasville?" Emily persisted.
"I'm not sure."


Krista Galloway is not a fan of Christmas. After her rough childhood in multiple foster homes, the holiday season just brings too many bad memories to the surface. But when she accepts a job as a city manager in the mountain town of Winter Hill, Washington, Christmas is part of the deal. The small town is famous for its Christmasville celebration, something that the city manager . . . well, manages.

As she tries to make her tiny new apartment feel like home for her and her eight-year-old daughter, Emily, Krista begins to wonder if this move was a mistake. She doesn't always feel welcomed in the close-knit town, and Emily continually wonders, "Where's the snow?"

Can a friendly stranger and his family help restore Krista's Christmas spirit before the big day?

My Reflections:
Melody Carlson has become well known for her holiday-inspired novels along with her YA material. Christmas In Winter Hill is no exception, you can always expect a clean, upbeat storyline with just enough depth and drama to satisfy most readers. 

Krista Galloway and her daughter Emily are striving for a brand new start after the end of Krista's marriage. Things aren't quite as they expect when they arrive in the sleepy little town of Winter Hill, Washington. 
It seems like you can run but the past always catches up to you. As Krista Delves into her new role as the city manager, she finds that she is responsible for the annual Christmas festival. The problem lies in the fact that Christa had been raised in multiple foster homes and being disappointed time and time again over Christmas traditions and "family love" has made Krista slightly grinchy when it comes to this beloved season. Emily, however, seems to thrive in her new town but will Krista be able to stick it out? There are a lot of butting heads with a few of the locals making the transition a little rocky.

If you are looking for a touching story this Christmas tale will most certainly make you take a look at the people around you and try to see things through others' eyes. Christmas can be a hard time for many people, and being sensitive to this fact can go a long way in loving our fellow humans. I know Christmas is over, but I would highly recommend this novel to anyone who may relate to Krista. I will certainly be watching for more books by this author!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Melody Carlson

Melody Carlson is the award-winning author of over 200 books with sales of more than 7 million, including many bestselling Christmas novellas, young adult titles, and contemporary romances. She received a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the...

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Book Review: God Confident Kids Helping Your Child Find True Purpose, Passion and Peace

From The Back:

"A must-read for any parent seeking wisdom for their vital and increasingly challenging role."--Jim Daly, president of Focus on the Family

Our children and teens are growing up more anxious, depressed, and fearful than previous generations. But if we help them discover true God-confidence--instead of chasing the illusive self-confidence--we can empower them to embrace their uniqueness and find their purpose, passion, and peace as they grow into humble, compassionate, and resilient young people.

In this hopeful book, associate marriage and family therapist Cyndie Claypool de Neve explains how you can help your kids discover the purpose for which God created them. God-Confident Kids is filled with stories, Scripture, psychological insights, and practical tips to help you move from fear-based parenting to faith-filled parenting as you claim Ephesians 2:10 for your kids: "For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do" (NIV).

My Reflections: Who as a parent doesn't want their children to have lasting, true unshakable faith? I believe everyone is created with a very special purpose, a God-given purpose no matter who you are. Whether you choose to follow God's leading or not is a choice. As parents is it not our calling to try to help our children follow God's ways? Ah, but there is the choice factor right? How as parents do we help lay out the path for them? We as flawed people flounder and pray, and read books like these to gain a little insight into the best practices, then we leave it in the creator's hands. 

I loved how Cyndie Claypool De Neve uses personal stories scripture and psychology in a synergistic fashion. Her book has many nuggets of wisdom to glean from and I highly recommend this handy little book to anyone involved with children. 

Packed with sound God centred wisdom, I am sure you will be left with many new ideas and some old ones to ponder a little deeper. I especially enjoyed the quick tips sections, where I could find practical skills that I could start implementing straight away!

If you are looking for a great Christmas break book this is it, friends, you can't go wrong with this one. Easy to read, God centred parenting and extremely practical, How can you go wrong?

Cyndie Claypool de Neve

Cyndie Claypool de Neve, a former journalist with an MA in counseling psychology, is the coauthor of Unshaken, Start With Praise, and Raise Them Up. She has appeared on Dr. James Dobson's Family Talk Radio and has a growing speaking...

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Book Review: Living Lies

From the Back:

In the little town of Walton, Georgia, everybody knows your name--but no one knows your secret.
At least that's what Lane Kent is counting on when she returns to her hometown with her five-year-old son. Dangerously depressed after the death of her husband, Lane is looking for hope. What she finds instead is a dead body.

Lane must work with Walton's newest deputy, Charlie Lynch, to uncover the truth behind the murder. But when that truth hits too close to home, she'll have to decide if saving the life of another is worth the cost of revealing her darkest secret.

My Reflections:
Natalie Walters hits the mark with her debut novel "Living Lies." Intriguing plot marred with death and deceit pair this with heart jarring topics of depression, PTSD, suicide and a mother's love and you have a best-seller! 
I found myself really put out when I had to put the book down to attend to life. 
Small town Georga is picturesque and filled with great people and home town community, however, not everything is as it seems as darkness creeps into the crevices of this well-manicured little town. 

Lane's struggle is portrayed realistically, but the autour does a fine job at balancing this reality with the handsome newcomer, Charlie Lynch. Though the romance is a little on again off again you can understand this with the mental state Lane is in. Her confidence is crushed and her controlling parents don't help matters one bit. It was a beautiful unfurling as we witness Lane realizing life may just have something to live for. 

I was drawn to Carlie Lynch right away, he reminded me of my husband: he is the epitome of protection, kindness and trust. Who wouldn't want that in a life partner? He doggedly respects Lane's space but also won't let her wither away, but holds her close, even when danger is forefront in their lives. 

All in all this book was a "YES, PLEASE!" In the fact that this authour has made it to my top 10 authors to watch for, I am eagerly awaiting book two, Natalie Walters, great work!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Natalie Walters

Natalie Walters is the author of Living Lies and Deadly Deceit. A military wife of 22 years, she currently resides in Hawaii with her soldier husband and their three kids. She writes full-time and has been published in Proverbs 31...

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Book Review: Vow Of Justice

From the Back:

Playing dead might just get her killed
FBI Special Agent Lincoln St. John is living his own personal nightmare. When the woman he loves, Allison Radcliffe, is killed, he devotes himself to tracking down the killers and making them pay for their crimes. He expected it to be a challenge. What he never expected was to find Allison very much alive shortly after her "murder."

As his anger and hurt mix with relief, Linc isn't sure how he's supposed to feel. One thing he does know for sure: he and Allison will have to work together to stop a killer before she dies a second time--this time for good.

My Reflections:
Lynette Eason, you outdid yourself!
In this last novel of the "Blue Justice" Series the pages fly and the action roars, you won't be disappointed with this novel. Though this book is a series, it contains enough backstory to be read as a stand-alone, but really, why would you?

Russain Mobsters and high tech gadgets rule as special agents Allison Radcliffe and Linc St John pull out all the stops to try to solve the mystery before its too late. 
Linc St. John is heartbroken when he learns of the death of the woman he loves. Things are not always the way they seem, however. Now that he has discovered the truth they must work together and use all their training and intuition to stay alive for real.

Eason's attention to detail and her dedication to accurate meticulous nuances speak volumes thought the entirety of this novel.  If you love a mystery, on the edge of your seat action this series is a perfect fit! 

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Lynette Eason

Lynette Eason is the bestselling author of Protecting Tanner Hollow, as well as the Blue Justice, Women of Justice, Deadly Reunions, Hidden Identity, and Elite Guardians series. She is the winner of three ACFW Carol Awards, the Selah Award, and the...

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Book Review: Welcome To Adulting

From the Back:

You're an adult . . . now what?
Adulting is hard. But sometimes we make it harder than it has to be. Combining entertaining stories from his own experience, insights from the Bible, and compelling evidence from research, Jonathan "JP" Pokluda lays out a roadmap for how to navigate your life as an adult, addressing topics such as:

· friendships and dating
· career and money management
· interpersonal conflict
· controlling anxiety
· recovering from addiction
· discovering your purpose on this earth

If you're struggling to find a footing in the world of adult life, this witty, non-patronizing guide is for you.

My Reflections:

Adulting... do we ever become adults? That's what I felt when I saw this title. I mean we got here somehow? We try to do the things responsible adults do, right?

I loved reading this book in snippets to my fledglings. They groaned and made all the appropriate fuss, but the was listening, and there was no way I was stopping. 

This book is something I wish I had read when I was a newly married young adult. We fumble along and eventually make it out, but wouldn't it have been nice to have a few pointers along the way?

I found myself really enjoying reading this at family dinner time, it opened up so much dialogue, so that alone was a win! I do have to say some of the experiences the authour speaks about were a little bit intense, in the way that I hope my fledglings don't fly into those particular windows, but it was healthy to see the perspective of how life can go wrong with a few bad choices. I think it's safe to say this is a great book to facilitate discussion and open up areas where you may not have previously covered. 

If you are looking for a book for your young adult that speaks to the issues of today, this may be a good resource for you or your fledgling. However I would caution you to not just give it to them and expect them to read it cover to cover because let's face it, they probably won't!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Jonathan Pokluda

Jonathan "JP" Pokluda is pastor at Harris Creek in Waco, Texas, and former leader of The Porch, where he saw the ministry grow from 150 to more than 7,000 young adults. The author of the bestselling Welcome to Adulting, Pokluda came to...

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Kevin McConaghy

Kevin McConaghy works as a copywriter for a marketing agency in Dallas, Texas. He's been involved with The Porch since the day it first launched, and served in a variety of roles there for over a decade. As an editor and contributor to The Porch blog,...

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Book Review: Deadly Intentions

From the Back:

There is no such thing as random
Research scientist Caitlyn Lindsey is convinced that someone is taking out her team one by one. First, a friend and research partner was killed in a home invasion. Three months ago, her boss died in a suspicious car accident. Four days ago, another partner supposedly committed suicide. And now Caitlyn herself has miraculously survived a hit-and-run. Afraid for her life with nowhere to turn, she reaches out to one of the victims' husbands, Detective Josh Solomon.

Though initially skeptical about Caitlyn's theory, Josh soon realizes the attack that took his wife's life was anything but random. Now the two of them must discover the truth about who is after Caitlyn's team--and what their end game is--before it's too late.

My Reflections: 

Lisa Harris is known for her intense action infused novels, and her newest title "Deadly Intentions" is by far no exception! I have read so many novels, I am usually pretty good at guessing the "who done it." This book is the exception, readers are taken on a fast-paced ride that refuses to fully stop until the very last pages. 

I loved the cadence of this novel. It was intense, yet readers are given little snippets where one can catch their breath. It's in these times where our characters dive a little deeper into interpersonal relationships and faith-building happens. 

I enjoyed both Caitlyn and Josh, their characters were true to life and kept me engaged through the entirety of this novel. Caitlyn is one smart lady, but can she use those smarts to survive? With the help of Detective Josh Solomon, they embark on a quest for truth, but will it be too little too late?

Have a free block of time before you start "Deadly Intentions," because once you open the cover you're sucked into the vortex, and it's not letting loose until page 297!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Lisa Harris

Lisa Harris is a bestselling author, a Christy Award winner, and the winner of the Best Inspirational Suspense Novel from Romantic Times for her novels Blood Covenant and Vendetta. The author of more than 40 books, including The Nikki Boyd...

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