Author April W Gardner

Explore Creek Country

2011-09-28T13:41:00.000Z

In preparation for the upcoming release of the next book in my Creek Country Saga, Warring Spirits, I decided to take a tour of ancient Creek Country and hope you'll jump on the tram. There's plenty of room on the bench, right here, next to me. :-)

Mississippian Period

Alternate Book Covers

2011-09-24T02:34:00.002Z

COVERS THAT DIDN'T MAKE THE CUT

Wounded Spirits Trailer

2011-09-24T02:13:00.001Z

Fan Mail

2011-09-24T02:01:00.003Z

"Four hours after starting, I have finished Wounded Spirits. Which I loved. I should mention that while I'm an avid reader, I avoid Christian fiction as a whole simply because I find most to be too hokey. I have found few exceptions over the years and so I never even attempt it anymore, unless my sister manages to sway me with something she's found and declares "hokey-less." Your book, however, was absolutely delightful and held my attention completely. Intense and passionate yet staying realistic while keeping Christ as the source of all hope and peace. I truly loved it. Wanted to let you know that you did an awesome job and I will wholeheartedly recommend this book to my friends." --Mary

"Started Wounded Spirits yesterday...finished Wounded Spirits yesterday. lol What a page turner...I couldn't go to bed 'til I knew the outcome! You did yourself proud, girl! Ready for the next one which will be out when?"--Diana

"I just finished your book last night and holy crow it's good! Hurry and finish the next two so I can read them!!! I'm starting a book club this month and Wounded Spirits will be our first book! You rock lady!"--Tracy

"I bought your book at Gottwalls yesterday. I already finished it!! I really enjoyed it, very hard to put down. Even made me cry a few times. Can't wait for the next one to come out. So you need to get to writing!!!" --Amber

"Loved the book! After the fight begins it's edge of the seat the rest of the time!! I loved their romance..not sappy but steamy and sweet.
Now my only disappointment...it ended too soon!
Seriously...I loved it."--Jessica

Gallery--Fort Hawkins

2011-08-03T02:36:00.000Z

FORT HAWKINS, present-day Macon, GA

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In Wounded Spirits, Zachariah McGirth travels to the Creek Agency to convince the agent, Benjamin Hawkins, to send aid to a friendly Creek village besieged by the warring Red Sticks. (This was an actual historical event. Hawkins responded to the plea and the village was liberated.) When the USAF moved my family to Robins AFB, I had no idea I'd be living just a few miles from the site of the Creek agency. Today, only a replica of a portion of the agency stands where Hawkins' agency once thrived. It is located one mile from the Ocmulgee National Monument where the ancient Mississippian Peoples built their famous mounds.

Benjamin Hawkins with Creek Indians

Gallery--Red Eagle

2011-08-03T02:15:00.001Z

CHIEF RED EAGLE aka William Weatherford

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Reluctant leader on the assault of Fort Mims, Red Eagle was of mixed Scottish and Creek descent.

His character appears several times in my novel, Wounded Spirits. More about him can be found in my Deleted Scenes. In December of 2010, I was able to visit his burial site which can be found an hour north of Mobile, AL. Although I don't have the picture posted here, he is buried next to his wife Sehoy Tate.

Red Eagle surrenders to Jackson

Red Eagle's famous leap

Gallery--Fort Mims

2011-08-03T01:29:00.000Z

Read the award-winning novel, Wounded Spirits,

by author April W Gardner.

FORT MIMS, Baldwin County, AL

Nothing remains of the actual fort, but in the last decade the site has been thoroughly excavated, artifacts uncovered, and the layout defined.

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Replica of the fort wall

Tensaw Lake, now a part of the Alabama River

Replica well over the location of the excavated fort well and where Zachariah's ax head was found

Plan of the fort found at excavation site

artist's rendition of the massacre

Gallery--Historical Figures

2011-08-03T00:56:00.002Z

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Wounded Spirits if filled with actual historical figures. I was diligent in my attempt to stay true to every detail recorded about their characters and their appearance, but as "they" say--a picture is worth a thousand words. That being the case, here they are...

Tecumseh, Shawnee Spokesman

General Andrew Jackson

Pushmatahaw, Choctaw Chief

Gallery--Maps of Tensaw

2011-08-03T00:17:00.001Z

1813 CREEK COUNTRY

Scroll for close-up

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CLOSE-UP OF TENSAW AND BIGBY SETTLEMENTS

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Gallery Index

2011-08-03T00:02:00.008Z

Over the years, I've had the amazing opportunity to visit some of the sites used in the setting of Wounded Spirits. Now, I'd like to share them with you! Below, you'll also find some other images that will supplement the portraits of Creek Country that I painted in my novel. Don't miss the map of Tensaw which pinpoints locations of the events (both fictional and historical) that took place in the book.

Map of Tensaw

Horseshoe Bend National Military Park

Fort Mims
Red Eagle

Portraits of Historical Figures

Ocmulgee National Monument

Fort Hawkins, Creek Indian Agency

Alternate Book Covers

Wounded Spirits--Reviews

2011-08-02T02:01:00.000Z

Reviewer Katie McCurdy at Legacy of a Writer
From the first chapter of this wonderful book, Wounded Spirits kept me turning the page - breathless to find out what would happen to Adela next. A book like that deserves the5 stars I'm giving it! READ MORE

Reviewer Brenda at WV Stitcher
On a scale of 1 to 5 I would give this book a six, because its just that good!!! READ MORE

Reviewer Michelle Vasquez at Life in Review
I think Wounded Spirits is a wonderful debut novel for April Gardner! I really liked the era and thought the story was beautiful! It is rich with historical detail. And the characters are just fabulous. READ MORE

Reviewer Miriam at My Eyes Have Wheels
I won this book from another web site and I just had to tell you about it. "Wounded Spirits" by April Gardner is another fantastic book. It is an amazingly descriptive novel about life in the early 1800's. READ MORE

Reviewer and author Lisa Lickel at Reflections in Hindsight
Nothing is easy in Aprils' story. Life and loyalty mingle with death and revenge in blurry lines. I find myself replaying events and motivations, reliving the story long after I finished reading. READ MORE

Long and Short of it Reviews
This historic romance and adventure novel brings home a spirit of kindness, and a belief not only in God but in good, and simple goodness, that is sweet and charming, and so much more. You don’t need to be a fan of the inspirational to be left feeling a fuzzy glow from this one – do read READ MORE

Rel Mollet at Relz Reviews
April delves into the trauma of war, the impact of grief and the torment of forbidden love. READ MORE

Endorsements for Wounded Spirits

2011-08-02T01:22:00.000Z

“Historical fiction, if done right, has the ability to slip a reader into another time and another place. In Wounded Spirits, April Gardner has skillfully blended research with fiction to create a story that entertains and educates. Main character Adela McGirth finds herself straddling two worlds—one as a dutiful daughter, the other as a woman in love with the man who saved her life--a Native American. Wounded Spirits has something for everyone: forbidden love and romance, brutal war scenes, sacrificial love, history of the 19th century, and a faith that triumphs over adversity. This is a debut novel to remember.”

--Suzanne Woods Fisher,

Bestselling Author of The Choice

“Wounded Spirits is a powerful story of love, loyalty, the effects of war, and faith in God. The writing is vivid and compelling. The characters were so real I felt I knew them, and I was caught up in their lives and compelled to read on. The ending was sweet yet realistic. The story and its characters will stay with me for a long time. I look forward to reading future books by this talented author.”

--Melanie Dickerson,

author The Healer’s Apprentice

This is a solid debut from Ms. Gardner, one that demonstrates not only her skill with words, but her insight into the human condition. The characters will grip your heart, the story will seize your mind, and the hope at the end will leave you with the surety that your God is bigger than any human troubles.

-Rosanna White,

Christian Review of Books

“Wounded Spirits is an extremely well written story about a difficult time in our country. The characters are so well developed I connected with them immediately, and I could easily understand the emotions and fears of the people on both sides of the situation. With gripping conflict, believable dialogue and skillfully written descriptions that grabbed me from the first page, this book will be a treat for any lover of historical fiction. It’s a winner.”

--Barbara Warren,

Freelance Editor, Blue Mountain, Editorial Service

"Wounded Spirits is an epic historical novel about a less explored time and place in American southern history. Author April W. Gardner tells the story from all sides caught up in the Indian wars of 1813 with sympathy and honesty. Her resourceful heroine, Adela, holds the family together in times of love, loss, and forgiveness. I look forward to the continuation of the story in future novels."

- Amanda Flower,

author of Maid of Murder

“In Wounded Spirits, author April W. Gardner, brings a little-known American historic period and native people to rich imaginative life. Not enough has been written about the noble Creek and their mighty Confederacy. As a writer and college history teacher, I welcome Gardner's contribution and look forward to the other books in this series.”

--Delores Topliff,

Pres. Minnesota Christian Writers Guild and

author Little Big Chief: The Bear Hunt

“April Gardner has written a stunning first novel. The noble characters move right into the reader's heart, and their adventures are so smoothly crafted, the history so wonderfully woven, it's easy to forget that the story and the characters are fiction. A thoroughly enjoyable read from beginning to the end.”

--Deanna K. Klingel,

author of Just for the Moment: The Remarkable Gift of the Therapy Dog

Deleted Scenes--List

2011-08-02T01:11:00.000Z

Initially, my historical romance, Wounded Spirits, was much heavier on the side of history. My superb editor helped me see that too much history would bore most readers. I was sad to see it cut, but I don't regret it. She was SO right. Now I have the opportunity to share all that amazing history with you. Through these deleted scenes, you'll get a peek into Hester's, Nokose's, and Red Eagle's minds, as well as come away knowing a bit more about Creek Country. Enjoy!

Prologue

Nokose's Nightmare

Nokose Find the Man in his Dreams

Captain Bailey Left in Charge

Hester Flees to the Bastion

Red Eagle Attempts to Stop the Madness

Red Eagle Surrenders

Nokose and Singing Grass at Horseshoe Bend

Jackson Prepares for Assault

Nokose During Battle

Jackson Surveys the Carnage

The Country House Courtship by Linore Rose Burkard

2010-03-10T03:03:00.000Z

The Country House Courtship by Linore Rose Burkard

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Middelesex, England, 1818
It has been five years since Ariana Forsythe married the Paragon, Mr. Phillip Mornay. Now, Ariana’s sister, Miss Beatrice Forsythe, is seventeen and determined to marry advantageously as well.
But the Mornays have disappeared from high society as they raise a family at their country estate. Can Beatrice persuade them to chaperon her in London? And what about her business with the curate, Mr. O’Brien, whom Beatrice has rashly promised to marry years earlier? She is too sophisticated now to settle for a mere clergyman—despite his agreeable countenance and gentle, understanding ways.
When Mr. Tristan Barton becomes tenant of the Manor House, Beatrice’s hopes seem to have found their object. But when Ariana falls gravely ill, secrets come to light, motives are revealed, and pretenses that were easy to keep up in the darkness begin to crumble. As hearts are bared and truths uncovered, a country house courtship like no other cannot be far behind! (back cover copy, “The Country House Courtship”)
“The Country House Courtship” has been aptly coined “Inspirational Romance for the Jane Austin Soul.” Recently, I’ve saturated my mind with PBS’s Masterpiece Classics, and Jane Austin’s novels-turned-movies have been aired one after the other over the last months. At the same time, I picked up author Burkard’s latest regency romance. To my delight, there was no jolting change, no embarrassing attempt at British English, no corny, contrived situations to “compromise” the heroine. Linore Burkard’s use of Austin-era English, customs, and propriety are synonymous with the great English author herself.
The plot is believable and absorbing.. At the end, a burst of action inconsistent with the rest of the sedate (yet intriguing) story line took me by surprise. I’m not sure it was necessary, but it didn’t ruin the book for me. I’d still pick up any other of Linore R. Burkard’s novels in a heartbeat. This was the first of hers I’d read, so I look forward to back-tracking to her two previous novels in the series—“Before the Season Ends” and “The House in Grosvenor Square.”
If you’re in the mood for good quality regency era romance, search no further. You’ve found it!
View all my reviews >>

2010-02-16T02:08:00.002Z

The Choice by Suzanne Woods Fisher

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
One moment Carrie Weaver was looking forward to running away with Lancaster Barnstormers pitcher Solomon Riehl—plans that included leaving the Amish community where they grew up. The next moment she was staring into a future as broken as her heart. Now, Carrie is faced with a choice. But will this opportunity be all she hoped? Or will this decision, this moment in time, change her life forever?
(back cover copy, “The Choice”)
For Carrie Weaver, it’s all about choices, tough ones. Deciding whether to follow the man she loves or follow the Amish faith is just the beginning. With a hemophiliac father and brother, life for Carrie is spent wondering when the next accident will return them to the emergency room. Will the next wound be the one that won’t stop bleeding? The one to take a precious life?
And what would happen if one of them was to die? How would it change life for her? What choices would she be forced to make then?
Solomon Riehl must also make a choice—pursue a dream career or the woman he loves. The complications? To choose the first, he’d have to renounce the Amish faith. For the second, his selfish nature.
And then there’s Mattie. Sweet Mattie who trusts God so implicitly she’s certain one day she’ll marry the only man she’s ever loved. When everyone else loses hope in him, Mattie’s still there, seeing beyond the flaws straight to his potential…if only he’d see it himself. But there’s another hurdle to jump. Her best friend, Carrie, loves him too.

True to form, author Suzanne W. Fisher has created an outstanding story. It took me several chapters to appreciate it, but once I did, I couldn’t put the book down.
The overriding theme in the novel is choices--little and big. What to do with the orchards this fall, how to meet the tax payment following tragedy. Love, marriage, and faith.
But there’s more.
The choice we all must make at different times in our lives is so subtly woven through the story, the reader isn’t aware of it until all the pieces fall into place. Each character in “The Choice” is struck by tragedy in some form. Each takes a different path in their attempt to cope. Some succeed in putting their lives back together. Others don’t. What’s the deciding factor between their victories and failures?
For those who’ve devotedly followed Ms. Fisher’s flourishing writing career, this latest work will confirm your loyalty. For everyone else, what are you waiting for?!
No matter your taste in fiction, this is a tale you shouldn’t miss.

View all my reviews >>

2010-02-06T03:15:00.002Z

Michal: A Novel by Jill Eileen Smith

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Michal--a princess in love with her father’s best captain and worst enemy.
David—a nation’s here pursued by the King to whom he’s devoted his life.
Michal—a married woman forced to marry another man out of spite.
David--an anointed king hiding in caves and waiting on God’s timing for his crown.

It’s one of the most exciting and romantic plots of all time, and it should be. God is the author with Jill E. Smith creatively filling in the missing details for our imaginations to feast on.
1023BC isn’t the best time to be alive. There are giants, crazed kings, and brutal enemies bent on Israel’s destruction, but all Michal wants is a life with the only man her heart has ever wished for--David.
David, on the other hand, has a kingdom to win, a God to please, and a murderer to avoid. He loves Michal, but having a few other wives is convenient too.
In the Bible, Michal and David’s story is spread out over so many years and between so many momentous events it’s hard keep it together on your mind. The author did a fine job of taking all the bits and pieces and tying them together in a neat little package. Michal is written in a clear voice and concise plot which is entertaining and easy to follow.
Michal’s development from bratty younger sister to woman of God was a joy to witness. I’d never fully grasped what a hard and trying life she led. Being the daughter of a crazy king had to have been rough. On top of that, she was forced to relinquish the man she loved. They were reunited years later but Michal had to share him with other wives. Not fun.
Michal is a story of God’s perfect timing, of his moving in and through our lives to carry out his plan on earth.
One of the disadvantages of reading Biblical fiction is the reader probably already knows the plot bringing the surprise level to zero. In this case, the bond the reader develops with the characters is worth the sacrifice of the element of surprise. From now on, when I read 1 Samuel, I’ll look at Michal differently, with a bit more respect and a touch of awe.
I look forward to the next book in the series Abigail, recently released through Revell.

Reviewed by April W Gardner
www.aprilgardner.com
“Wounded Spirits”
November 2010

View all my reviews >>

Wounded Spirits--Chapter One

2010-01-30T00:09:00.001Z

McGirth Plantation, Tensaw Settlement
June 1813

Adela shifted her body to allow blood flow to her legs. The mossy ground had long grown hard against her tailbone, and the rough tree trunk dug into her back.

A refreshing breeze blew through the pines lining the northwestern border of her father’s land. It rustled the needles and created a comforting, familiar whistle.

A small meadow lay vacant before her. On the opposite side, the evening sun cast its last rays through the treetops. Squinting, she thought, for an instant, she saw the form of a man. No, it was just a bush moving with the current of the wind.

Surely, she had been waiting nigh on two hours. Her family would be worrying. Just north, civil war raged among the Creeks and threatened to involve the vulnerable Americans in the Tensaw and Bigby settlements. Her parents’ constant fear of danger was well placed.

Soon Mama would call Adela’s father in from the barn and send one of the servants looking for her. Worry was never good for Mama.

Her attacks were rare these days, but she never knew what might set Mama to wheezing and coughing.

Adela’s stomach twittered and flipped. She stood then rubbed her lower back. “Please, hurry, Phillip. Please,” she murmured, not sure she could stay much longer.

Unheeding, the sun’s beams continued down the length of the trees then dissolved, leaving only their orange and purple reflection in the sky.

Not wanting to create undue stress on her parents, she gave up waiting and set out toward home. She lifted her skirt to avoid the prickly blackberry bushes, and berated herself for not having thought to bring a lantern. How foolish of me!

“Adela…Adela…” Her name rode on the breeze.

Her heart seized and then leapt as she recognized the voice. Haste sped her back through the underbrush.

“Phillip! I waited so long.”

He enveloped her in his work-hardened arms. Phillip was becoming more intimate with her. She wondered if it was too soon.

“I knew you’d wait.” Resting his hands on her shoulders, he stepped back where she could see him. “I couldn’t get away any sooner. Dixon had a list as long as my arm of things for me to do before I leave tomorrow. He hovered like a hawk to see I got them done.”

She pulled his hands from her shoulders and held them between her own instead. “You’re here now, and that’s all that matters.”

“How will I ever last three months without you?”

“What kind of nonsense is that? You’ll do just fine. The adventure of your life is just around the corner. I hardly think you’ll be pining for boring, old Tensaw. You just see that Savannah society treats you well while you’re busy getting your commission, Second Lieutenant Phillip Bailey.”

A stray lock of dark blond hair fell over his eye, and Adela brushed it away. He caught her hand and pulled it to his lips, his coffee brown eyes sparkling in the waning daylight. The warmth of his lips on her fingertips sent tingles of excitement rushing through her but not without a warning.

I shouldn’t be encouraging him this way. Not while I’m still so unsure... She dropped her eyes, but he mistook her guilt for something else.

“That’s what I love about you, Adela. You’re all innocence and piety.” He cradled the back of her neck with his hand, and her insides fluttered in a dangerous way.

She knew she should move away, but she felt drawn to him, like a mouse to a trap. Adela cleared her throat, “You speak of love when we’ve only been courting a month. And, I might add, quite unofficially.” His deep affection seemed premature.

“Maybe, but I’ve known I’d marry you from the day we met.”

She’d known him since she was just a girl. A grown woman now, had she not noticed he cared? She opened her mouth to ask, but he placed a finger on her lips.

“Are you sure you won’t come with me? It’s not too late. We can marry tomorrow, first thing and—”

“Marry? Tomorrow? You know I can’t. You haven’t spoken to my father about courting me, much less marriage. And there’s Ellie…did you forget? You know how she adores you.”

Phillip gave her a placating smile. “She might hurt for a while, but she’ll see reason. She’s not foolish, simply a bit of a romantic…albeit misplaced.”

Adela chuckled. “Elizabeth, romantic? Determined, more likely. She decided years ago to love you, and it would take a direct message from God to persuade her otherwise.” She propped her hands on her hips, noticing the first chirps of the crickets. “Did you know she just rejected an offer of marriage from Mr. Pierce?”

“The school teacher and Ellie? Married?”

“Well, he would have liked as much.”

Phillip tipped his square chin and laughed outright.

The sound brought a smile to Adela’s face, but she chided him nonetheless. “Come now, it was a perfectly decent offer.”

Phillip wiped his eyes. “But the man is twice her age, and desperate to be married. Have you seen his cabin? Chaos!”

Adela dismissed his objections with a wave of her hand. “All that aside, I am not prepared to be at odds with my sister. So, she must not find out about us…for the time being, anyway. We’ll address the issue when you return.”

“She has to find out eventually. Why not now?” Phillip crossed his arms and gave her the back of her shoulder.

He’d never been one for patience, and at the moment, he reminded Adela of a spoiled child denied a piece of pie. She chuckled.

“What are you laughing about?”

“Just now, you reminded me of Mrs. Haverty’s youngest.”

His eyes darkened as he took a step closer. His stiff form towered above her. “You’re comparing me to that little monster?”

Adela sobered at the intensity of his gaze. “It was a silly thought. Please forgive me.”

He studied her in silence.

Warning bells clanged in her mind. Just as another apology formed on her tongue, he let out a puff of air and relaxed his stance. “I just want to take care of you, Adela. I want to build a home for you and provide for you, give you beautiful things and walk with you through town on my arm. Let me talk to your father tonight.”
He could be quite persuasive. Still, she refused to allow him to push her into something for which she wasn’t fully prepared.

She gave a tentative shake of the head. True to form, her hesitance produced a huff of frustration. “If not now, then when? When will that dear sister of yours ever take the news well?”

“Why would I tell her something I’m uncertain of myself?”

He scowled then spoke as if she hadn’t mentioned her ambiguity. “You need to know the moment my feet touch Tensaw soil in August I plan on asking your father for permission to court you properly.” He grasped her chin in his hand and pressed a hard kiss to her lips. “So, you’d best prepare her.”

She took a step back and smoothed out her skirt. “Aren’t you the bold one tonight, Mr. Bailey?”
He merely grinned and removed the bear claw pendant that always hung around his neck. “Wear this to remember me by.” He held it out.

“Phillip, it was your grandfathers! I can’t. It’s too important to you.”

“Of course you can. You’re to be my wife. It means what’s mine is yours. I love you, Adela McGirth, and there’s no one else I’d give it to.” His voice rang with longing as he ran his eyes over the length of her, pausing in all the wrong places.

She resisted the urge to cross her arms over her chest. At least the dark of the night covered the blush on her cheeks. Never had a man appreciated her body the way Phillip did, and never had one assumed so much. “You’re being a bit presumptuous. Aren’t you?”

“Not at all. I’m a man who knows what he wants and doesn’t stop until he gets it.” Playfulness tinkled his tone, but Adela heard the truth behind his words. “Take the pendant. If it helps, see it as a gift from a friend. Not as a token of betrothal.”

Seen in such a way, what could it hurt?

She slipped it about her neck then gasped as he pulled her into a fierce kiss. His moist lips moved confidently against hers. Warm hands stroked her back and almost melted her resolve to remain chaste.

“I love you,” he murmured against her mouth.

She knew he wanted a similar reply, but she couldn’t give it. The words caught in her throat, as if uncertainty held them from escaping.

She split apart from his searching mouth and sought retreat. “Please, be careful in Savannah,” she managed. “I have to go.” She dropped her arms and ran for home, the claw thumping against her chest.

* * *

Adela climbed the ladder to the loft careful not to wake her sisters. She hung her dress on a peg and slipped into her nightgown. Phillip’s bear claw thudded against her. She clutched it through her gown as panic seized her. Had she hid it from Mama? So intent on getting home, she hadn’t thought of it until now.

Her shoulders dropped when she realized Mama would have questioned her about it if she’d seen.

The wooden timbers of the bed squeaked as Adela climbed in next to Lillian. They had always shared a bed. Even when given the option of each having their own in their more spacious, newly built house, they had both refused, preferring the warmth and closeness the other afforded.

Although the two were completely opposite one another in every way, they held a special bond. Maybe it was Adela’s quiet dependence on God which supported the more flighty Lillian, or maybe it was Lillian’s carefree spirit which drew Adela to her sister’s side. Perhaps, it was the need for an ally against Ellie’s domineering onslaughts.

Regardless, with just a year separating them, she and Lillian understood each other and thrived on their friendship.

Lillian turned over to face her. “Where have you been?” she whispered, her anger barely concealed. “I’ve been worried sick. We all have.”

“Shh! You’ll wake Ellie.” Adela glanced at Elizabeth but their older sister’s breathing remained deep and even.

“Well?” Lillian hissed.

“In the woods.”

“In the woods? That’s all you’re going to say? I hope Mama believed you more than I do.”

The fearful look on Mama’s face and the way she’d clung to Adela when she’d walked through the door flashed across her mind. She tasted guilt and couldn’t swallow. “Me, too. But I didn’t lie, if that’s what you’re getting at.”

Lillian practically snorted. “That would be something I would do. No, silence would be more your style.” She thumped Adela on the shoulder. “Am I not getting any more details, like where you got that—that—whatever it is hanging around your neck?”

Adela grasped the pendant. “You saw it?”

“Of course. When you got undressed. If you don’t want anyone else to find out about it, you should be more careful. So, out with it. What have you got there?”

“It’s nothing. I shouldn’t have accepted it.”

“Nothing? I saw the way you were holding it,” she rasped.

“Shh! That’s not what I—” Would Lillian understand? “Oh, never mind.”

“Well, give me all the details. Who is he?”

“How did you know it was from a man?”

“Adela, Adela, ever so naive and oblivious. You and I don’t think the same at all. So, tell me already.”

“If I tell you, you have to promise to keep it to yourself! At least for a while. Promise?”

“Fine, I promise…just tell me.”

Adela took a deep breath, and said his name on less than a whisper.

“What? No! It’s—it’s not as if he has no reason to love you, but you? Lover of all things peaceable and non-confrontational, I never imagined you to be so audacious as to set your bonnet for Ellie’s man!”

“Shh! See why it’s a secret? No one would understand. Besides, he’s not Ellie’s man. And I’m not even sure I feel anything for him.”

“You’ve got to be half mad. You do realize Elizabeth will practically disown you?”

Adela lost the battle against her tears.

“Come on. Don’t cry. I exaggerated. It won’t be so bad. She’ll forgive you…eventually. She’s never really had a claim to him and will see it in time. But you have to tell her. You can’t keep it from her forever, and if she finds out from someone else, it’ll be worse.”

“Lilly, I’ve tried a dozen times to tell her, but I just can’t.”

Adela moaned and Lillian put a comforting hand on her shoulder.

“It’ll humiliate her, if it doesn’t kill her first,” Adela said. “I should have put an end to it before he left, especially since I’m not sure I even love him. But he’s so…”

“Handsome? Daring? Everything a woman could want in a man?”

Adela sighed and fiddled with the claw strung about her neck. “Yes, he’s all that, but there’s something missing…or maybe it’s what he has too much of. A bit too brash, maybe? Too self-confident? He angers easily, and I don’t see much of the Lord in his life.”

“Is that what’s bothering you? Do yourself a favor and stop focusing on his faults. We all have them.” She propped herself up on an elbow then paused. After a moment of silence, soft snoring from the other side of the room confirmed Ellie still slept.

Moonlight from the small window washed Lillian’s face in its glow. Their Mama’s full Spanish blood showed itself most in Lillian. Even in the dim light, she was beautiful. “It’s simple,” she said. “You tell Ellie. She’s hurt. When Phillip proposes, you accept, and in time, Ellie recovers.”

Lillian tugged the pendant from Adela’s grasp. “This was his grandfather’s. I take it Phillip loves you.”

“He claims he does.”

“And you saw him tonight to tell him goodbye?”

Adela bobbed her head.

“Your secret is safe with me, but my advice is sooner is always better than later.”

“I know. I know. I’m such a coward.”

“Hardly.” Lillian patted her hand.

It felt awkward to be the one consoled. The tables were usually turned.

“I didn’t plan for it to happen and now…I’m risking Ellie disowning me for a man.”

“That’s the most ridiculous thing I’ve heard yet. Ellie isn’t that scary. Now why don’t you get some sleep, and we’ll talk about how to handle it tomorrow. I assume there will be a wedding when he returns. You can’t prepare for a home of your own and still keep it a secret. We’ll think of something.”

“Thanks, Lilly. Love you,” she said with a peck to her sister’s cheek.

Lillian flipped over. Much later, her mind exhausted, she relaxed and followed her sister in sleep.

* * *

Kossati Village, Upper Creek Nation
The door to the summer house creaked on its leather hinges. Totka stepped inside careful not to wake the children. He left the door ajar allowing the moonlight to guide his steps. Its soft glow illuminated his sister’s little ones piled like counting sticks on the bearskin mat. Four sets of arms and legs sprawled in every direction.

The youngest stirred, flipped to his back, and wiped drool from his cheek.

Noiselessly, he removed his bow and quiver and propped them beside his own pallet. His blade he kept sheathed and strapped to his waist.

From her couch on the opposite wall of the cabin, his sister, Singing Grass, propped herself on her elbow.

“You are home early.” Her whisper was a shout in the stillness.

Running the gauntlet of little appendages, Totka stole across the room and lowered himself to sit beside her.
“Where is Nokose? Did he send you home to check on me?”

Totka rubbed his aching leg and decided to let her believe the lie. “You know your husband well.”

She laid a warm hand on his knee. “I also know my brother and the pain he suffers.”

Totka shifted and her hand dropped. “I did not mean to wake you. How are you feeling?”

“Hungry—all the time.” Her voice gentled. “I am sorry you needed to come home early.”

“It is no matter. There was little to hunt.” He tried to keep the frustration from his voice. It was worrying enough to be forced to hunt during the summer months.

“Nothing? You caught nothing?”

“Three rabbits and a squirrel, as if I were just a boy. No one else had done any better when I left. I doubt one more day would have mattered much.” He glanced at the floor. “I would rather be home with the children than listening to the men’s talk of war, death, and starv—” He cut his words short.

“You do not have to hide things from me, Brother. I am pregnant--not blind and deaf. I know what happens around me.”

“We will be fine.”

“My husband is joining the Red Sticks. I hardly think it is fine.”

Just before leaving with the hunting party one week earlier, Nokose had revealed to Singing Grass his intention to join the warring party.

She had not been pleased, and she still didn’t know Totka planned to join as well.

Civil War had raged in the Creek Nation since the 1811 Grand Council. For over a year, the Totka had publically remained neutral, along with Chief Red Eagle.

Now, he found himself forced to choose sides.

A taskigyalgi, a warrior without rank, and a man dependent on his sister, Totka did not face the same decisions as Nokose. Still, he aligned himself with his sister’s household and would suffer whatever fate befell her.

According to the Red Sticks, if the Long Knives were not stopped, the Muscogee would eventually be lead to starvation or worse…slavery.

With the purpose of protecting their nation and keeping its traditions pure, the Red Sticks were executing those displaying American sympathies.

Most in Kossati knew Singing Grass’ household was partial to the Americans. Nokose spoke their language, understood their ways, and welcomed their inventions. Against Red Stick policies, Singing Grass traded for cotton, and Totka advocated fencing their communal garden.

Yes, the settler’s cattle encroached on Creek land, and no, the white farmers did not ask permission to run their iron plows through Creek soil. All of that aside, Totka found it difficult to justify fighting them.

Totka agreed with Singing Grass. The whites were powerful and well studied in war, and the Red Sticks would eventually be slaughtered.

But unless they pledged their allegiance to the Red Stick cause and soon, they would all find themselves taken unawares by a band of warriors.

Singing Grass shook her head in despair. “The Red Sticks will kill themselves in vain. Must you as well?”
“Yes, we must.”

“We? What is this? Will you fight as well?” The unbelief in her voice stabbed him to the core. Only his sister could say such a thing and not incur his resentment.

Silence surrounded them as Totka bit back offense to keep his voice low and even. “I am a warrior without rank, a man of twenty-two winters dependent on his sister. Would you deny me the chance to rise in the nation?”

“Of course not. But you can barely…” Her voice trailed off on an irritated huff.

Wishing to ease the tension, Totka poked her in the arm. “Fear not, Sister. The prophets say we will not be harmed. They say the White man’s bullets will bounce off our chests like pebbles.”

“The prophets are insane! Surely you have not succumbed to their--” She quieted when she heard his soft chuckle. “You tease.”

The sighting of a star with a fiery tail traveling across the sky a month after Tecumseh’s departure had frenzied the Creeks. It was the “sign.” It was the “arm of fire” Tecumseh had claimed would prove his prophecies were from the Great Spirit. The sighting had driven the Creeks into the Red Stick faction by the thousands.

“Madness has overcome our people. They are being led to the slaughter.” Singing Grass’s voice filled with grief. “We shame ourselves, Brother, and our children will pay.

“Pushmatahaw is a wise chief. He was right to force Tecumseh from his nation. Because he did, the Choctaw were spared this insanity. If only our chiefs had done the same…”

“Lower your voice,” Totka cautioned. “Do you want the children to hear and repeat your words? We are already at risk. Careless words could be our destruction.”

She sat up. Her single braid slipped from her shoulder and landed on the bearskin with a soft thud. “What do you mean we are already at risk?”

“Our leaning toward Whites ways will not be forgiven. We must clearly oppose the Americans.”

“And what of our leanings? Does it us a threat? Will my husband join with their soldiers? No!”

“Red Eagle has joined the war party.”

“I care not what Red Eagle does. You should go to Big Warrior. Join his White ranks in Tuckabatchee. I hear all who desire peace with the Americans are flocking to his protection.”

Totka cradled his head in his palms and massaged his scalp. “I agree with Big Warrior, but sooner or later, Tuckabatchee will be under siege, and his White warriors will be forced to surrender to the Red Sticks. We either submit now or later.”

“Bah! Again with this talk of we. I need you here, Brother, to protect the children.”

Totka’s eyes wandered to the shadows on the floor. Being the children's maternal uncle, they were more his responsibility than Nokose’s. He cared for them and loved them as his own. Who would protect them when he went away?

He shook his head. “After we embrace the Red Stick cause, there will be no need to protect the children. My brother will do as he vowed and join the Red Sticks. Red Eagle is their chief now. He is clever and a good warrior. He will lead well.”

Singing Grass picked at the end of her braid. “And you are certain my husband has no choice in the matter? That harm will come to us should he not join?”

“If Red Eagle, as influential and powerful as he is, has been forced at the threat of his family’s life to join the Red Sticks, how will Nokose avoid it?”

“And you will fight?”

He stood and stretched his leg. Placing his weight on it, he cringed. Maybe his sister was right…

No. It was time. “I must bring home hair. I will go with Nokose Fixico.”

Singing Grass grabbed his fingers and squeezed. “Wipe the worry from your face, Brother.” Resolve strengthened her voice. “All will be well. Do what you must.” She eased herself to the couch and pulled the blanket across her legs. “I ask one thing of you.”

“Yes?”

“My husband, he can be…”

Totka smiled into the dark. “Yes, I know. I will do my best. Rest well. Morning comes soon.”

He returned to his pallet, lightness in his step. He hadn’t realized how much her approval meant to him until he obtained it.

He prayed to whatever god would listen that his family be spared the sufferings and hardships that were the sister of war.

Review of "Thirsty" by Tracey Bateman

2009-12-03T21:08:00.002Z

Nina Parker is a woman experienced in failure and every fiasco can be traced back to one thing—the bottle. Her husband has left her and taken custody of their two kids. Thanks to her own negligence, she’s lost her job as a veterinarian. She’s a worthless alcoholic, or is she? Sober again, no one has faith she’ll be able to pull the pieces of her life back together. Not even Nina. The thirst is too strong. Every moment is another challenge to overcome, another need to say “no”. Only her sister, sheriff of Nina’s Arkansas childhood town, has offered Nina refuge and a job. With her alienated teenage daughter unwillingly along for the ride, Nina once again attempts to overcome the odds. But her hometown isn’t the peaceful little place it used to be. Maybe coming home wasn’t such a good idea? After all, it’s not every day a person lives next to a vampire. Not just any vampire, but the one who’s waited over a decade for Nina to come home, to make her his own. A rash of ritualistic murders keeps the Sheriff on her toes and makes the reader wonder…is it Nina’s pursuer or something else? When I picked this book up, I had no idea it was about vampires. I chose it because of the author. I’ve followed Tracy Bateman’s writing since her debut novel and have enjoyed each one. She’s always been diverse in her genres but “Thirsty” takes the cake. I never would have conceived of a Christian-vampire hybrid, but Tracy’s done it and despite the odd combo of interests, her writing is as strong as ever. Still, I feel compelled to say the “Christian” side of it was rather weak. The few blurbs about God could have been edited out without the slightest hitch in the storyline. And Twilight fans be warned. “Thirsty” has a relative lack of vampire intensity. Nina’s vampire is no Edward Cullen, but I imagine Ms. Bateman never intended him to be. The story’s essence lies in Nina’s recovery and the parallels between Nina’s thirst and a vampire’s. These two alone are enough to intrigue and carry the reader through to the end. The author’s vivid portrayal of an alcoholic’s struggle was one I’ll not soon forget. The characters’ unique movement on the time line adds healthy variety, and I felt Ms. Bateman did a fine job keeping it immediately clear to the reader who was “speaking” and when. While I find it wiser to keep vampires on their own shelf, I can’t say this story didn’t hold my attention. It was certainly different, and these days, with the glut of same-song-different-verse kind of books filling the stores, different is what most readers go for.

Review of "Amish Peace" by Suzanne W. Fisher

2009-12-03T21:05:00.002Z

Under a cozy quilt and by the light of my bedside lamp, I find myself picking up Suzanne W. Fisher’s latest book, Amish Peace. I’ve already completed it once this month, but it’s calling to me again. This time, I’m taking notes. My interest in one of America’s most fascinating ethnic groups, the Amish, is only one of the draws this book has. Comprised mostly of real-life stories from today’s Amish community (as told to the author) Amish Peace is dedicated to unveiling the secrets of this unique people’s tranquility of spirit. [The Amish:] may seem old fashioned, writes the author, but when it comes to living with an abiding peace, they are far beyond most of us living a frazzled, fast-paced modern life. So is the answer to living with abiding peace to “go Amish”? Hardly. We’d never survive anyway. Suzanne claims it’s possible to take the principles the Amish live by and adapt them to our lives without switching to horse and buggy. She has packaged their tried and true methods in a lovely, easy to absorb format and made it available to every “Englisher” willing to give it a try. Simplicity of life, the value of Time spent on what truly matters, a deep sense of Community, the important of Forgiveness, and the Sovereignty of God are all subjects Suzanne touches on. Readers of every age will be challenged by the principles laid out and by Suzanne’s probing reflections at the end of each chapter. As a homeschooling mom of two young children, I particularly felt God tugging at my heart to slow down, simplify life, re-prioritize, and begin to instill over-looked values into my kids’ lives. I found Amish Peace to be the most inspirational and challenging book of a practical, hands-on nature that I’ve read in ages. It comes highly recommended by this reviewer to be used either as a do-it-yourself study, or even better, as a group Bible study. Not written for either gender, this book is probably more appealing to women. Although the brave man who truly gets his heart and mind around these useful, godly principles can only benefit himself and his family to the glory of God. Amish Peace goes way beyond the popular Amish fiction books stocked on today’s bookstore shelves. It peels away the romantic mystery surrounding these gracious people and leaves a sense of camaraderie. After all, just like us, they’re flawed folk seeking to live a life more pleasing to God. It just seems to me, they’re more diligent at trying than most. They’ll be the first to admit they aren’t perfect, nor do they have it all figured out. But they do have a bucketful of wisdom worth sharing and you don’t have to trek to Lancaster County to get it. It’s only a book away.

Review of "The Missionary" by Carmichael and Lambert

2009-12-03T21:00:00.002Z

American missionary David Eller just wants the world to be a better place. Instead, he finds himself entangled in an assassination plot and there’s no escaping it. President Guzman of Venezuela is a man who cares little for the poor of his country. On the flip side, David has dedicated his life to helping them. When the occasion presents itself for him to aid in peacefully and quietly removing Guzman from power, David can’t resist. The street children would certainly benefit from a true and equitable democracy, but will it really be a peaceful coup? Christie, David’s wife, is oblivious to the havoc her husband has wreaked, that is, until she and their child are running for their lives. Can she ever forgive David? Commando Hawkeye swears this is his last mission. Killing for a living has grown old. But he’ll be lucky to get out of this mess in one piece. If only he hadn’t implicated Eller… “The Missionary” had me from la primera pagina. A missionary kid once myself, I appreciated the Eller’s compassion for the people of Caracas. The authors did a superb job of portraying the heart and dedication this family has for those without means and without Christ. Christie Eller, wife, mother, and nurse, is the true victim in this story. Her husband has made some serious errors in judgment, and now, Christie and their son must pay for them. I was pleased to find her reactions very realistic. No fluffy Christianity here! Poor David. He just can’t seem to get things right. So much so, that I had a hard time connecting with him. How many stupid mistakes can one man make? Hawkeye, on the other hand, is a character the reader has no problem rooting for. He’s a professional killing machine with little conscious. Still, you find yourself thinking, Kill him, Hawkeye! Slit his throat! Only great writing can accomplish that. “The Missionary” has it all—vindictive drug lords, specialists in torture, delusional missionaries, and children with ADD. The action flows and hardly a page goes by without another problem to solve, and a healthy dose of twists and turns keeps the reader guessing to the end. You’ll not grow bored with this one! Recommended.

Review of Gingham Mountain by Mary Connealy

2009-12-03T20:59:00.000Z

When I need an escape or a good chuckle When I need a reminder that today’s annoyances will be tomorrow’s laughter, that God has a purpose in every exasperating and embarrassing situation, I pick up Mary.
She never fails to supply exactly what I need.
Her characters are upright respectable citizens yet full of endearing flaws, driven to do right yet completely ignorant of each other’s needs.
Wonderful!

Review of "When the Soul Mends" by Woodsmall

2009-12-03T20:58:00.001Z

After receiving a desperate and confusing call from her sister, Hannah Lapp reluctantly returns to the Old Order Amish community of her Pennsylvania childhood.

Having left Owl's Perch more than two years earlier, she finally has settled into a satisfying role in the Englisher world. Hannah has found love and a new family with the wealthy Martin Palmer and the children she is helping him raise; and her life-long dream of being part of the medical community is being realized. But almost immediately after her arrival, the disapproval of those who ostracized her, including her headstrong father, reopens old wounds.

As Hannah is thrown together with former fiance Paul Waddell to work for her sister Sarah's mental health, hidden truths surface about events during Hannah's absense, and she faces and agonizing decision. Will she choose the Englisher world and the man who restored her hope, or will she heed the call to return to the Plain life--and perhaps to her first love?
(back cover copy of "When Mends the Soul")

This is a wonderful conclusion to a great Amish trilogy. I'd sworn off Amish-centered novels, but Woodsmall won my heart back.

After reading the first two in the Sisters of the Quilt series and truly loving them, I held little hope that it would end well. What can I say? I'm not very optimistic when it comes to Amish settings.

But Woodsmall proved me wrong. I carried Hannah, Martin, and Paul around in my heart long after I turned the last page.

Journey to the Well by Diana Wallis Taylor

2009-12-03T20:56:00.000Z

The scandalous life and ultimate redemption of “the woman at the well” is story familiar to many Christians around the world, but never has it been told in such a way as you’ll find in “Journey to the Well.”
The basic plot is no mystery. “You have had five husbands…and this man that you have now is not your husband,” Jesus said. It’s what’s left to the imagination that prompted Diana W. Taylor to create a novel about rejection, shame, and the hope Christ brings.
Marah, a girl having just come of age, is married off to the first man willing to fill her benefactor’s greedy coffers. Torn from her childhood friend and sweetheart, Jesse, Marah is forced to enter a world of misery with the first of five husbands.
Life has few kindnesses to offer Marah. Loss, grief, and censure are her constant companions. That is until the day, she returns to Jacob’s well…
“Journey to the Well” is based on one of the many Biblical accounts that has always intrigued me. Why would a woman ever have five husbands? What kind of horrible sins much Jesus have forgiven? What a desperately lonely person she must have been! These are the questions that fill the pages of this absorbing book.
Marah’s continuous struggles reminded me of Elizabeth’s in Jerry Jenkin’s “Though None Go with Me”, although I might add (to Diana W. Taylor’s benefit) that Marah’s journey gave me a greater sense of hope than Elizabeth’s.
After husband number four, I began to grow listless and bored, but the author did a superb job of swinging the story around in a new direction and sweeping me off my feet again.
From a historical perspective, “Journey to the Well” delves into the lives of the Samaritans, which lived and thought more differently from the Jews than I had known. It’s a very interesting peek into their lifestyle and religious rituals, and it’s all woven unobtrusively into the story.
Marah is a character I’ll not soon forget, and her creator, Diana Wallis Taylor, is another author I’ll be keeping an expectant eye on

Deep in the Heart of Trouble

2009-12-03T20:54:00.001Z

Energetic spinster Essie Spreckelmeyer is back, but this time, she's got her head on straight. After making the hugest mistake of her life, she's not about to succumb to needing another man. She and the Lord are doing just fine on their own, thank you very much.

As his father's last will and testament is read Tony Morgan finds he's been abruptly and cruelly disinherited from his portion in the family lavish oil industry. As he sets out to find his own way in the oil business, he never expect to run smack into the most challenging task of all--earning Essie's love.

More subdued than it's prequel, "Courting Trouble", "Deep in the Heart of Trouble" is still spunky and full of fascinating characters--just what I've come to expect and love from Deeanne Gist.

Since I found "Courting Trouble" to have an unsettling ending, I was glad to read the conclusion to Essie's story and feel deeply satisfied.

The Inheritance by Tamera Alexander

2009-12-03T20:52:00.000Z

I've never for a moment been disappointed in Tamera's writing. Her characters deeply love, hate, grieve. I know this not because I'm told so, but because they vividly live it.

I fell in love with Tamera's style in her Fountain Creek Chronicles and since then, continue to religiously absorb every page she produces

The Inheritance

2009-05-13T12:11:00.001Z

The Inheritance by Tamera Alexander

My review

rating: 4 of 5 stars
I've never for a moment been disappointed in Tamera's writing. Her characters deeply love, hate, grieve. I know this not because I'm told so, but because they vividly live it.

I fell in love with Tamera's style in her Fountain Creek Chronicles and since then, continue to religiously absorb every page she produces.

View all my reviews.

Journey to the Well

2009-05-13T11:41:00.001Z

Journey to the Well: A Novel by Diana Wallis Taylor

My review

rating: 4 of 5 stars

The scandalous life and ultimate redemption of “the woman at the well” is story familiar to many Christians around the world, but never has it been told in such a way as you’ll find in “Journey to the Well.”

The basic plot is no mystery. “You have had five husbands…and this man that you have now is not your husband,” Jesus said. It’s what’s left to the imagination that prompted Diana W. Taylor to create a novel about rejection, shame, and the hope Christ brings.

Marah, a girl having just come of age, is married off to the first man willing to fill her benefactor’s greedy coffers. Torn from her childhood friend and sweetheart, Jesse, Marah is forced to enter a world of misery with the first of five husbands.

Life has few kindnesses to offer Marah. Loss, grief, and censure are her constant companions. That is until the day, she returns to Jacob’s well…

“Journey to the Well” is based on one of the many Biblical accounts that has always intrigued me. Why would a woman ever have five husbands? What kind of horrible sins much Jesus have forgiven? What a desperately lonely person she must have been! These are the questions that fill the pages of this absorbing book.

Marah’s continuous struggles reminded me of Elizabeth’s in Jerry Jenkin’s “Though None Go with Me”, although I might add (to Diana W. Taylor’s benefit) that Marah’s journey gave me a greater sense of hope than Elizabeth’s.

After husband number four, I began to grow listless and bored, but the author did a superb job of swinging the story around in a new direction and sweeping me off my feet again.

From a historical perspective, “Journey to the Well” delves into the lives of the Samaritans, which lived and thought more differently from the Jews than I had known. It’s a very interesting peek into their lifestyle and religious rituals, and it’s all woven unobtrusively into the story.

Marah is a character I’ll not soon forget, and her creator, Diana Wallis Taylor, is another author I’ll be keeping an expectant eye on.

View all my reviews.

Deep in the Heart of Trouble

2009-05-13T11:40:00.001Z

Deep in the Heart of Trouble by Deeanne Gist

My review

rating: 3 of 5 stars
Energetic spinster Essie Spreckelmeyer is back, but this time, she's got her head on straight. After making the hugest mistake of her life, she's not about to succumb to needing another man. She and the Lord are doing just fine on their own, thank you very much.

As his father's last will and testament is read Tony Morgan finds he's been abruptly and cruelly disinherited from his portion in the family lavish oil industry. As he sets out to find his own way in the oil business, he never expect to run smack into the most challenging task of all--earning Essie's love.

More subdued than it's prequel, "Courting Trouble", "Deep in the Heart of Trouble" is still spunky and full of fascinating characters--just what I've come to expect and love from Deeanne Gist.

Since I found "Courting Trouble" to have an unsettling ending, I was glad to read the conclusion to Essie's story and feel deeply satisfied.

View all my reviews.

When the Soul Mends

2009-05-06T16:33:00.001Z

When the Soul Mends: A Novel by Cindy Woodsmall

My review

rating: 4 of 5 stars
After receiving a desperate and confusing call from her sister, Hannah Lapp reluctantly returns to the Old Order Amish community of her Pennsylvania childhood.

Having left Owl's Perch more than two years earlier, she finally has settled into a satisfying role in the Englisher world. Hannah has found love and a new family with the wealthy Martin Palmer and the children she is helping him raise; and her life-long dream of being part of the medical community is being realized. But almost immediately after her arrival, the disapproval of those who ostracized her, including her headstrong father, reopens old wounds.

As Hannah is thrown together with former fiance Paul Waddell to work for her sister Sarah's mental health, hidden truths surface about events during Hannah's absense, and she faces and agonizing decision. Will she choose the Englisher world and the man who restored her hope, or will she heed the call to return to the Plain life--and perhaps to her first love?

(back cover copy of "When Mends the Soul")

This is a wonderful conclusion to a great Amish trilogy. I'd sworn off Amish-centered novels, but Woodsmall won my heart back.

After reading the first two in the Sisters of the Quilt series and truly loving them, I held little hope that it would end well. What can I say? I'm not very optimistic when it comes to Amish settings.

But Woodsmall proved me wrong. I carried Hannah, Martin, and Paul around in my heart long after I turned the last page.

View all my reviews.

Gingham Mountain

2009-05-06T16:11:00.000Z

Gingham Mountain by Mary Connealy

My review

rating: 4 of 5 stars
When I need an escape or a good chuckle When I need a reminder that today’s annoyances will be tomorrow’s laughter, that God has a purpose in every exasperating and embarrassing situation, I pick up Mary.

She never fails to supply exactly what I need.

Her characters are upright respectable citizens yet full of endearing flaws, driven to do right yet completely ignorant of each other’s needs.

Wonderful!

View all my reviews.

Twilight

2009-05-06T16:06:00.001Z

Twilight by Stephenie Meyer

My review

rating: 5 of 5 stars
Very different from what I normally read, but in short--best book ever.

View all my reviews.

Wicked

2009-05-06T16:03:00.002Z

Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West by Gregory Maguire

My review

Not sure what I think yet. Beautiful prose, but so far not a single character has any redeeming qualities. Very pessimistic for me. I'll give it a bit more time before I pass judgment.

December 2009
Ok, I feel free to pass judgment now. This is an immoral, depressing book. Avoid it.

View all my reviews.

Until We Reach Home

2008-12-23T20:11:00.000Z

by Lynn Austin

Life in Sweden feels like an endless winter to Elin Carlson after the deaths of her parents. When circumstances become unbearable, she determines to find a safe haven for her sisters.
So begins their journey to America, the land of dreams and second chances.
But as hardships become their constant companion, Elin, Kirsten, and Sofia question their decision to immigrate to Chicago. Will their hopes for the future ever be realized?
~ back cover of Until We Reach Home

My one complaint about Until We Reach Home is the inadequate summary of the book on the back cover. Except for the author’s name on the front, I would never have picked it up. The summary is vague and simplistic. It could describe every other book on the shelf.
But after reading it, and traveling with these three lovable girls across miles of ocean, through hunger and fatigue, and through tests of love and friendship, I see how difficult it would be to fit everything that happens to them in a nutshell. This novel is non-stop drama. Just when you think you know the route the author is going to take, the storyline takes a drastic turn in the opposite direction. I love it when an author can surprise me, and when it happens more than once, I want to applaud!
Elin is the oldest sister. She’s responsible, to a fault, and the middle girl, Kirsten, does just that. But Elin has good reason for being so protective. She’s suffered at the hand of the man she trusted and will do anything to protect her little sisters’ innocence.
Kirsten just wants to have a good time and Elin’s prudish ways are ruining it for her, but she soon finds that her trusting ways have already caused her irreparable heartache. Will there be any way to build a new life in America after what she’s done?
Sofia is the fearful one. She’s also prone to depression, like their deceased father. Elin and Kirsten worry endlessly about her. In their attempts to make their sister smile again, they learn that only God can mend the broken pieces of the soul. But will Sofia listen to Him before she follows the path her father took?
More than anything I enjoyed Until We Reach Home for its detailed look into the life of an immigrant aboard ship bound for the land of opportunities. I’ll never forget their experiences on Ellis Island, the lines, the exams, the health inspections, the fear of not being allowed into the country. Ms. Austin is always good for a thorough history lesson well disguised in the colorful robes of well-written characters.
I see I haven’t done a good job of summarizing the plot either. There’s just too much to tell! You’ll have to read it for yourself, and I recommend that you do.

Dangerous Heart

2008-12-23T20:10:00.000Z

by Tracey Bateman

Ginger Freeman has grown up with her brothers and father and their band of outlaws. She’s everything you’d expect of a motherless, young woman on the American frontier. Tough and vindictive, Ginger is driven to make Dr. Grant Kelley pay for his part in the death of her brother. Tagging along on Grant’s wagon train bound for the west, she waits for just the right moment to kill him. What she doesn’t expect is her reaction to the love and acceptance of “normal society”. Receiving a taste of family life for the first time, she absorbs it up and under its care, matures like prairie grasses under a spring sun.
Perturbed by his growing feelings for this “stubborn, infuriating woman,” Grant is temporarily distracted by a devastatingly fatal epidemic that sweeps through the camp. The adventure has yet to begin, but he’s already exhausted from endless doctoring. Trying to keep his mind from wandering toward Ginger is another tedious task altogether.
The two are complete opposites in every sense and annoy each other to no end. I enjoyed watching them change beneath God’s gentle hand.
True to form of the “Westward Hearts” series, this third and final installment, Dangerous Heart, is thrilling yet tender, amusing yet sobering. I missed the second in the series, but didn’t even notice until halfway through this one. Well done for that, Tracey.
Dangerous Heart comes recommend to you for its believability and its fun romance, not to mention the experience of being part of a wagon train. I can still taste the dust in my mouth and smell the campfire smoke in my hair.
As always, Tracey Bateman’s story held me fast until the end. Fluent in an array of genres, she continues to be one of my favorite authors. You’ll never go wrong picking up one of her books.

The Moon in the Mango Tree

2008-12-23T20:09:00.000Z

by Pamela Binnings Ewen

Barbara Perkins typifies the modern woman and her battle between independence and the more traditional role of wife and mother. She is a reluctant medical missionary’s wife who has given up a career of singing to follow her husband, Harvey, to the jungles of 1920’s Siam. To her horror, life is slipping by and each day that closes is one less for her to realize her dream.
In her own words, Barbara “fences with her conscious” as she leaves Harvey and Siam. After placing her young daughters in a boarding school in Switzerland, she heads to Rome to pursue a serious career in singing. Harvey stays in Siam as the royal physician, and Barbara convinces herself that he would rather have his medicine than her. She is empty inside, and living with the drive to be somebody, to be recognized, to be applauded.
I was continuously disappointed in Barbara for her selfishly motivated decisions and attitudes. A life of love, adventure and later, indulgence are never enough for her. The fact that so many of today’s women struggle with this very issue kept me rooting for her to do the right thing.
Author Pamela Ewen has placed “The Moon in the Mango Tree” in an array of colorful settings to include Philadelphia of the Roaring Twenties, Siam, Italy, and Paris. At the conclusion, the reader feels she has generously sampled the world of the twenties. The jungles of Siam are brilliant with character, yet dark with poverty and disease. The novel being based on the life of the author’s grandmother, it’s little wonder that Ms. Ewen has so vividly portrayed life as a missionary in Siam.
“The Moon in the Mango Tree” is a fine piece of literature, however, in the reviewer’s opinion the classification of “Christian fiction” very loosely applies. Instead of leading the reader to God and faith in Christ, she is almost persuaded to consider Buddhist teachings as the answer to many of life’s questions. Barbara herself never finds comfort in God nor turns to Him at any point, which is a must for all Christian fiction.
If you take the expectation of Christianity out of the equation, “The Moon in the Mango Tree” may be described as sweeping and majestic, a historical worth reading.

The Duchess and the Dragon

2008-12-23T20:08:00.000Z

by Jamie Carie

Drake Weston, Duke of Northumberland, is accustomed to a life of royalty until a tragic mistake followed by murderous rage results in his darkening character and sudden flee from England. With a hoard of money on which to survive, Drake hops a ship of indentured servants to America but is duly robbed and taken ill by the merciless sea voyage.

In Pennsylvania, Serena Winter is a humble, devoted Quaker on a mission of mercy, ready to tend the sick people aboard a ship that has just arrived from England. Taken by Drake’s air of dark mystery after he begins to serve as an apprentice to her silversmith father, Serena falls in love and is excommunicated by her fellow believers when she accepts a non-Quaker’s marriage proposal.

Not knowing Drake’s history, Serena is later shocked to discover her new status as a duchess. What follows are hard truths and softening hearts, romance triangles, webs of deceit, and ultimately, the power of grace, love, and passion.

~ back cover The Duchess and the Dragon

Drake Weston is the dragon…a dragon that needs a Duchess wife and an heir in order to lay claim to the inheritance his father cruelly takes from him. It’s Drake’s hunt for the perfect Duchess that carries the story along.
For Serena Winter, the Quaker nurse, and Drake, the near-death aristocrat, it was love at first sight, or should I say “lust”? The two have an instant, irresistible attraction to each other, cheapening the novel to a degree.
Ms. Carie’s “pushing the edge” approach to Christian romance is similar to Deanne Gist’s Courting Trouble. However, the two part company at Ms. Gist’s clarification that such liberties outside of marriage lead to trouble. Ms. Carie, on the other hand, seems to confuse lust of with love. For that reason, I do not recommend this book to impressionable, young women.
Outside of that, the story is enthralling and well-written, covering a broad expanse of interesting lands and cultures.
Will I pick up another of Jamie Carie’s books? Hard to say.

Searching for Eternity

2008-12-23T20:06:00.000Z

by Elizabeth Musser
Bethany House, 2007
0-7642-0372-X

French-born Emile de Bonnery lands in the strange environment of the 1960’s Atlanta with decidedly mixed emotions. Some memories make Emile want to believe the best of his father. Others cause him to fear the worst. Does his mother know more than she’s willing to tell?
Determined to learn the truth, Emile finds and ally and friend—who seems to be hiding secrets of her own. Together they search for answers…and what they find changes everything.

~back cover Searching for Eternity

When a young Emile is yanked from his native France and his grandmother Mamie Madeleine and dropped into the South during the time of the civil rights movement, he struggles to maintain his footing. Abandoned by an adulterous father, who Emile is convinced is a spy, he hates America and yet loves it. His American grandmother is plump, tender, and patient—everything Mamie Madeleine was not. This grandmother gives him peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and warm hugs, yet he cannot help but long for France and his father.
His odd, new friend at the high school, Eternity Jones, helps him cope with the adjustments that first year. However, the more he knows her, the more he sees how much help she needs. Living in a trailer park with a drunk for a mother and two younger siblings to care for, Eternity is in sore need of some love and protection.
Their mutual love of culture and their insatiable curiosities send them on a quest to find out why Emile’s father forced him and his mother to leave France on a moment’s notice.
The years pass and questions remain unanswered. Even after Emile has given up all hope of finding his father, Eternity remains true to her promise and continues the search. But what she finds is more than sobering. It’s heartrending.
If like Emile and Eternity, you’re a lover of culture and history, you’ll not go wrong reading Searching for Eternity. No light-hearted romance, the depth of its characters and the gravity of its topics—the atrocities of World War II, child abuse and neglect—make this novel one you’ll not forget.
The journey through this novel is as varied as it gets. From high French society to trailer trash, German concentration camps to Christmas cookies in Grandma’s kitchen, you’ll not want to miss a step of it.

Lonestar Sanctuary

2008-11-15T20:30:00.001Z

by Collen Coble

Allie Siders is desperate to help her 5-year-old daughter, Betsy, speak again. But with a stalker out for revenge, all Allie can think about is the safety that awaits them at the peaceful Bluebird Ranch, nestled deep in the Texas Hill country. Not only is the ranch a sanctuary for abused horses, but also for troubled youths. And Allie is determined to get Betsy, who hasn’t spoken a word in nearly a year, all the help she needs—and find a safe haven for them both.
Ranch owner Elijah DeAngelo, compassionate and kind, eagerly welcomes the due. But Rick Bailey, the handsome foreman, hasn’t decided to let down his guard…yet. As promises made long ago soon force Rick and Allie to work together to save all they hold dear, will they discover the remarkable power of love along the way?
~ back cover Lonestar Sanctuary

Lonestar Sanctuary is simple, yet exciting; the characters, average, but the plot, adequately suspenseful. Something to be said for author Colleen Coble, is she can keep a reader intrigued. She’s a master at weaving run of the mill reeds into a fascinating basket of mystery.
One chapter in particular stands out in my mind. The characters find themselves in a thunderstorm-turned flash flood. I saw it all—the lightning zinging, the churning, muddy waters, the fear rippling from the horses’ flesh. It was real in my mind and the characters behaved just as they should have, with adrenaline induced courage and terror that seizes the heart.
I found satisfaction in Allie and Rick’s annoyance with each other, yet their commitment to make things work. Very commendable.
In a nutshell, Lonestar Sanctuary was enjoyable, and I recommend it to a reader looking for a buzz of suspense or a bit of romance on the Texas hills.

Ready to Wed

2008-11-15T20:28:00.000Z

by Melody Carlson

When Belle Bannister, a real Georgia peach, checks into Grace Chapel Inn on a mission to find a husband among the eligible bachelors of Acorn Hill, the Howard sister teeter between disbelief and awe. Belle sets off to plan her wedding, trusting God to supply the groom, and teaches them all an unlikely lesson about faith.
Meanwhile, Jane gets a letter from her ex-husband, Justin, announcing tha the is coming to visit. What could he want after all this time? Does he regret losing her? Will he want to rekindle their lost romance? As Alice and Louise prepare for the possibility that Jane will move back to San Francisco, Jane is reminded that forgiveness can make all things new.
~back cover Ready to Wed

Ready to Wed is one of those silly romances that every woman needs to read once in a while. The ending was unremarkable. Having read it just a month ago, I honestly can’t remember who ends up with whom. But that’s not important. The gem in this book is the crazy notion that a woman would have a dream and the next morning up and move to a different state with the purpose of finding the husband God promised her in the dream. It’s nuts, but author Melody Carlson makes it work.
Belle, the sugary sweet southern belle that’s on a mission to find a man, is hardly the main character, but she’s the one I’ll remember. As she whirls into Acorn Hill in her pink Cadillac convertible, she affects everyone is this sleepy little town. It’s hilarious the way all the other characters respond in their unique ways to this odd, yet endearing woman. Did God really speak to her or is she off her rocker?
For all of Belle’s overt efforts to find a man, it’s quiet, unassuming Jane you’ll root for to find that special man.
Ready to Wed will make you smile.

No Eye Can See

2008-11-15T20:25:00.002Z

by Jane Kirkpatrick

When blind and widowed Suzanne Cullver reaches California with a group of women who have survived tragedy on the Oregon Trail, she sets her mind on doing for herself all that must be done. Though she cannot see, she rejects offers of assistance, unwittingly risking her children’s safely—and her own.
Her companions blindly falter as well, held hostage by their own pasts. As Suzanne attempts to control her life in Shasta City, Ruth defends against past errors, failing to see how she limits love. Meanwhile, Mazy’s vision seems to be permanently clouded by her late husband’s betrayal. But when a young stagedriver risks all for a Wintu Indian, his life becomes entangle with the turnaround women—and together they are changed forever as they discover that No Eye Can See all the good God has in store for those who love Him.
~back cover No Eye Can See

No Eye Can See was my first taste of Ms. Kirkpatrick’s work. Reading it was a new experience for me. There were so many characters and points of view that I was confused as to who was who for the first third of the book. I’m sure it would have helped if I had noticed the “Cast of Characters” listed at the start of the novel. But as it was, I was coming into the series on book two and felt like a stranger crashing a party.
That bit of warning to my readers stated right up front, there was something profound and persuasive about this novel that kept me from throwing it down in frustration. The closest I can come to putting my finger on it is to say that a group of heart-broken women struggling to find their place in a wild land is an irresistible plot. A blind widow with a baby and a toddler starting out on her own in the West? I just had to know what became of her. And she is just one of many characters that have stories to be told in No Eye Can See.
These are characters full of faults and shortcomings, fears and hopes, a past to forget and a future to take hold of. They are timeless women in an indomitable west. As a reader, I could identify with each one in a personal way—no easy task for a writer to achieve. For that, I congratulate Ms. Kirkpatrick for a work well done.
If you’re looking for a mindless, quick read, look elsewhere. This one requires time and thought. A little patience will reveal a story you won’t soon forget.

Sisters of the Quilt Series--books 1-2

2008-11-15T20:10:00.002Z

When the Heart Cries
When the Morning Comes

by Cindy Woodsmall

Poor Hannah, regardless of her desire to be who the Ordung wants her to be, simply can’t win for losing. Her forbidden love for a Plain Mennonite is nothing compared to the trouble brought upon her on a lonely dirt road by one violent Englisher. Hannah cannot free herself of that one act and in her attempt to forget and move on, she simply brings more trouble upon herself. As she finds herself entangled in questions that the Old Ways of her people cannot answer, Hannah faces the possibility of losing her place in her family, in her community—and in the heart of the man she loves.
I always say I’m not going to read any more books set in Amish country, but I grew desperate this month when I found that I had nothing else to read but these two Woodsmall books someone had given me. I feel compelled to thank my friend for handing off her used books to me.
I usually review one book at a time, but since I devoured these two within such a short span, I’ll kill two birds with one stone and recommend them both to you now. So as not to spoil book one, I’ll simply say that in book two (When the Morning Comes) Hannah takes drastic steps to free herself of her past, creating drama and tension that will keep the pages turning far into the night.
Despite what I feel is an overused setting, Cindy Woodsmall has created characters so compelling and real, that I must describe her Sisters of the Quilt series as outstanding. Hannah, Luke, Paul, Martin. They’re all my friends now, sleeping quietly between the bindings of two of the best Amish books I’ve read.

~ quote from back cover of When the Heart Cries in italics

The Battle for Vast Dominion

2008-09-08T17:15:00.000Z

by George B. Polivka

In my house, Polivka’s books the bear the scars of the well-loved. They go everywhere with me—the gym, the doctor’s office, the tub. Few books in my library make it to “tub status”, so water marks are always a sign of prominence. The final book of the Trophy Chase Trilogy is the most crinkled and dog-eared of the three.
In book two, the Drammun attack on Vast land was stayed by what can only be the hand of God. Now, the new king, Packer Throme, takes a leap of faith and willingly places himself in the jaws of the enemy. Determined to prove God’s power in his life, he lays down his sword and prays for God’s intervention.
The evil Hezzan of Drammun yearns for the secret to controlling the firefish, those mysterious and terrifying sea creatures. She is right in her assessment that the country that controls the firefish, controls the world. Packer has been seen leading one of the beasts and the Hezzen will learn his tactics if she has to sacrifice every sailor in her fleet to do it.
Her scheming lands Packer and his vessel, the Trophy Chase, in a cauldron of horrifying circumstances. With the Drammun fleet attacking from behind, the savage Achawuks approaching from the fore and an army of hungry firefish below, Packer drops to his knees and prays. Only God can get them out of this mess.
This trilogy is comparable to C.S. Lewis’s work in that it takes the reader on high adventure into new lands where epic battles of good verses evil play out on the open seas. However, lack of allegory is the one huge variance that Polivka makes from Lewis’ style. In the Trophy Chase Trilogy, we clearly see God at work and His almighty power working in the lives of the characters makes you want to lift your hands in praise.
King Packer Throme determines to live his life in complete subjection to God. In a Harvest House interview, Polivka said regarding Packer’s humility, “Bow your head and confess, and ask God, and He’ll do what you can’t... He’ll save you. But somehow we forget that this is how we are to live our lives every day. Somehow we don’t think that falling to our knees and humbly confessing and crying out for his mercy is an everyday occurrence and the way we should behave all the time…It’s not like the message is hidden between the lines in Scripture...” What a challenge for us as Christians!
If that’s the only message you get from these books, it was worth the price on the cover.
I can now rest easy. My Christmas shopping is done five months early. Everyone’s getting this trilogy!

The Firefish broke the surface moving at its fastest speed an all-out sprint upward toward the light. It flew from the water. This was an enormous leap, not over the bows, but straight into the air a hundred yards from its great Deep Fin, and well over a hundred feet into pure, dazzling, invisible daylight. It shot almost straight up until its tail left the water and it was airborne, a flying fish, a porpoise. Eyes alight, its hide gleaming and glittering in the sun, it rotated in the air, its entire long, lithe body spiraling gracefully, once, then again, and then a third time. And when it smashed down into the water on its dorsals, it soaked the Trophy Chase with a wild wall of joyful seawater.
And the men aboard roared their approval.
Their ally had returned!
~quote taken from The Battle for Vast Dominion

Calico Canyon

2008-09-08T17:14:00.001Z

by Mary Connealy

In the first page of Calico Canyon, Grace Calhoun is just another teacher in the Old West struggling to control a rowdy group of children. On page four, Grace is on her backside with a snake up her skirt, and on page five her skirt falls off. By the end of chapter two, she’s lost her job and is fleeing for her life hidden in the back of the wagon of the man who got her fired, Daniel.
That night, Grace and Daniel, along with his five unruly boys, are snowed-in for the winter at the 6R Ranch. Only the minister makes it through before the pass is blocked. Knowing that Daniel needs a mother for his children and Grace needs a place to live, the minister forces them to marry on the spot under the accusation that they’ve spent a night together and must rectify the situation before God.
Unbeknownst to them, the newly-weds are in for a grueling winter, hating each other as they do. And just as Grace suspects, Parrish has followed her from Chicago and wants nothing more than to make her suffer before he kills her. He’ll have to wait until the snow thaws…or will he?
Calico Canyon is just as good, if not better than the first in the series. Ms. Connealy is a master at getting her characters hilarious situations and barely a page turns without making me smile much less laugh out loud. I truly haven’t found an equal to Ms. Connealy’s heart-warming humor in Christian fiction.
The thread of God and his watchful eye over his children is woven tastefully throughout the book. The characters grow and learn to trust God and love each other. It was a satisfying read and left me anxious to get my hands on the next in the series.
Calico Canyon is real life at its best, and heaven help the mom with five small boys!

Let Them Eat Cake

2008-09-08T17:12:00.002Z

by Sandra Byrd

Who said that moving out and getting a life would be a piece of cake?

Lexi Stuart is at a critical crossroads. She’s done with college but still living at home, ready to launch a career but unable to find a job, and solidly stalled between boyfriends.

When a lighthearted conversation in French with the manager of her favorite bakery turn into a job offer, Lexi accepts. But the actual glamour is minimal: the pay is less than generous, her co-workers are skeptical, her bank account remains vertically-challenged, and her parents are perpetually disappointed. Her only comfort comes from the flirtations baker—but even he may not be who he seems!

So when a handsome young executive dashes into the bakery to pick up his high-profile company’s special order for an important meeting—an order Lexi has flubbed—she loses her compulsion to please. “What am I going to do?” he shouts? “Let them eat cake!” she fires back with equal passion and a nod to Marie Antoinette. And then, something inside Lexi clicks. Laissez la revolution commencer! Let the revolution begin! Instead of trying to fulfill everyone else’s expectation for her life, Lexi embarks on an adventure in trusting God with her future—tres bon!
~ Back Cover Let Them Eat Cake
Lexi Stuart is a delight to know. She is a butterfly newly emerged from her cocoon spreading her wrinkled wings and attempting flight. But she’s miserable at it. She’s been fired from the job she hates, and she can’t even bring herself to voice it to her parents. Why does she have to be a lawyer or something else equally lofty and dignified? Why can’t she just tend a cash register in a bakery? That’s what she really wants to do, so she throws caution to the wind and takes the job. It helps that her boss is a hot Frenchman.
Lexi’s bumbling start on her new life as an adult is humorous and on some level, familiar to us all. What makes Lexi special is that she’s been at it some time and still seems to have gotten nowhere. Maybe God can help?
I appreciated the little lessons in French culture and cuisine, as well as the graphics throughout. Nice touch, Ms. Byrd.
Let Them Eat Cake is a delicious read (pun intended) and one that I enjoyed from cover to cover.

Never Look Back

2008-09-08T17:11:00.001Z

by Kathy Herman

After serving time for covering up the strangulation death of a high-school classmate ten years earlier, Ivy Griffith has paid her debt to society, kicked her drug habit, and she’s making a fresh start. Problem is, everyone in her hometown of Jacob’s Ear, Colorado, knows what she did. And her seven-year-old son, Montana, won’t stop probing about the father he has never met—the man Ivy was too stoned to even remember.

Plagued by her shame and her little boy’s cried for male affirmation, Ivy is thrilled when Rue Kessler take an interest in Montana and her. Maybe Rue’s the answer to prayer she’s been waiting for. But he has a shadow hanging over his past and is suspected in a rash of bizarre, brutal beatings. He denies any involvement, and Ivy believes him—until she discovers he and Montana have kept a secret from her.

Ivy’s on the verge of despair and wonders if even God has given up on her. Or is something bigger at play here—something being orchestrated outside of her control that’s about to bring down the curtain on everything, including her past?

~ back cover Never Look Back

Both Ivy and Rue have pasts worth forgetting. However, in his infinite wisdom, God has brought them together and no ones benefiting more than Ivy’s little boy, Montana. Ivy’s parents are helping her move on with her life, make a fresh start. Her brother, on the other hand, isn’t so willing to forgive.
Never Look Back is a startling peek into the challenges an addict must face while reconstructing her life. It also shows God’s she must draw from in order to keep putting one foot in front of another. God forgives and moves on and so must we, is the message shouting through the pages of this novel.
There’s a mystery to be solved, as well. Which one of Jacob’s Ear’s residents is terrorizing the town with these senseless midnight beatings? You’ll never guess who.
I love young characters, and with the creation of Montana, Ms. Herman did not disappoint. He’s everything a seven-year-old boy should be.
I recommend Never Look Back for its uplifting message of forgiveness and restitution.

A Proper Pursuit

2008-06-27T11:13:00.000Z

by Lynn Austin
Bethany House, 2007
0-7642-2891-9

The World’s Fair. Chicago, 1893. It seems a perfect backdrop for what Violet Hayes longs to experience: a little mystery, a little romance.

To be honest, it is more than a little mystery. She schemed her way to Chicago to discover the mother she barely remembered. As for romance…well, with the help of her grandmother and three great aunts, that is coming along nicely as well—perhaps too well. Each of her relatives—including her saintly grandmother—seems to have a separate agenda for her.

In the course of a summer, Violet’s world will open wide before her eyes. But in the wake of discovery, she must find a way to determine which path—and which man—will ultimately be the right lifetime choice for her.

~ back cover A Proper Pursuit

The back cover copy of this novel so well describes the plot, that I’ll simply tell you about the paths and the men that “will ultimately be the right lifetime choice for her.”
Choice #1—Aunt Agnes is a socialite to the hilt and wants nothing more than to see Violet having tea with Chicago’s finest—for Violet’s benefit and her own, of course. To do this, she must be properly wed to…
Man #1—Nelson Kent. He’s tall, dark, and handsome and conveniently single. He’s rich and classy and perfectly charming. He’s also very interested in Violet as a prospective bride, but why does he keep stealing a peak at the maid?
Choice #2—Grandmother is the epitome of charity and self-sacrifice. Since her husband died some years ago, she’s dedicated her life to serving others through the ministries of her church. She’s convinced that Violet should don an apron and follow in her steps, all way to the soup kitchen in the rat infested ghettos of Chicago. If only Violet could keep from gagging on the stench, she might be able to give better consideration the man grandmother has been pushing on her…
Man #2—Louis Decker is a missionary in the making. The kind of missionary it would take to penetrate the darkest jungles of Africa—a regular David Livingston. In the meantime, he’s out to win the lost souls of Chicago as they flock to the World Fair. But can Violet keep up with him? Can she really see herself by his side, playing the organ as he sings on the streets and praying for him as he preaches to a barrage of rotten vegetables?
Choice #3—Great Aunt Matt is a hard-core suffragette. Liberty from the oppression of men and the right to vote for all women, is her mantra. She drags Violet on her protest marches, discouraging Violet from marrying and tying herself down to a life of drudgery and servitude.
Man #3—Silas McClure is described as an oily thief, but he’s the only one that will accept Violet for who she really is. The only one that makes her heart go thump. Is it such a bad thing that he robs unsuspecting women of their money?

Very few books keep me guessing to the end, but this one surely did. In the process, I learned all about Chicago’s illustrious World Fair, its rotting slums, and the women that helped grant us the rights we have today.
A Proper Pursuit was light, fun, and puzzling…in a good sort of way.

Loving Liza Jane

2008-06-27T11:12:00.000Z

by Sharlene MacLaren
Whitaker House, 2007
9-787774-584141

When Liza Jane Merriwether rode into the town of Little Hickman Creek, her first thought was, Oh, Lord, what have I done?
Kentucky was much different than what she was used to back East, but she knew God had led her here for a reason. Soon, the new schoolteacher is beloved by all…including Benjamin Broughton, a handsome widower with two young children.
Despite his protectiveness and the fact that Ben has rescued Liza from several scrapes, her contract implicitly states that she is to have “no improper contact with the opposite sex.”
Liza has a lot to learn about God and His plan for her life. She just may find that with God, all things are possible.

~back cover of Loving Liza Jane

Liza has seen her share of hardships in life, but nothing could prepare her for Little Hickman, the tiny, backwoods town that civilization has forgotten. The place is a just a smudge on the map. A smudge with an empty schoolhouse.
She might only be five foot two, but she has enough spunk to put the fear of God into a gaggle of troublesome schoolboys. Her superior, the crabapple Mrs. Winthrop, can’t intimidate her and neither can the wife-beater, Mr. Baxter…or can he?
Benjamin is in desperate need of a wife to help raise his little girl, Lili, who happens to be Liza’s prize pupil, but Ben’s already put in for a mail order bride. Besides, rules are rules, and Mrs. Winthrop would sooner give her ruler-wielding hand than allow Liza to court.
Liza Jane is awful pretty though, and since she lives in the cabin on his land, he’d better look after her. He’ll just have to figure out what to do with his mail order bride when she gets here.
Although I felt “Loving Liza Jane” somewhat predictable at the beginning, this romantic novel turned out to be a pleasant read. It contains a fine balance of romance, suspense and action, which kept me interested through to the end.
I recommend it for a quick read on a vacation weekend. It’s light and humorous and ends with a satisfying happily-ever-after.

The Road Home

2008-06-27T11:10:00.001Z

by Tommy Tenny and Mark Andrew Olsen
Bethany House, 2007
10:0-7642-0330-4

For Naomi Kauffman Yoder, memories of a Pennsylvania Dutch childhood, abandoned roots, lost connections, and shattered dreams have left her with nothing but loneliness and regret. Now wracked with grief, she comes to a momentous decision…
For Ruth Escalante Yoder, daughter-in-law and friend to Naomi, she concludes that leaving Las Vegas is the only option left to her…
So begins their odyssey—a cross-country quest in Naomi’s creaky old Impala as she returns to her family farm in Lancaster County, to the values of a life once spurned.
Although never having seen the East before, Ruth too is looking for a place to call home. Will she find it among the slow, quiet rhythms of Pennsylvania farm country?

Back cover The Road Home

The Road Home is a modern retelling of the Biblical story of Naomi and Ruth, the two who although not joined by blood had an inseparable and enduring love. Together they faced the loss of the three dearest men in their lives, and together they overcame—Naomi rededicating her life to Christ and Ruth finding Him.
Although the ancient plot was as familiar to me as apple pie, Tenny did a superb job of keeping my attention. The question in mind, as I read was always “how is he going to handle the next part of the story and still keep it interesting?” I was never disappointed. The contrast of Las Vegas with Pennsylvania Dutch country is about a good a simile to Israel and Moab as one could find.
In the Author’s Note, Tenny himself says, “Perhaps the most amazing thing is that running parallel with the biblical geography of Bethlehem, Ephrata, and Moab, halfway around the globe here in the USA are contemporary places with the same names. This fact inspired me to ask, What if the story of Ruth took place in the twenty-first century…?”
At times, it seemed that, although captivating, certain scenes did not advance the plot and were written merely to fill the pages. Something horrible would happen, and I would think Ah ha, the plot’s about to take a drastic turn, but it wouldn’t. This disappointed me until I realized that Tenny was simply laying the ground for Ruth’s conversion. Sometimes, the Lord has to let us get to the end of ourselves before we’ll turn to Him.
The Road Home is a book about God’s unconditional love and forgiveness, encouragement and hope, restoration and renewal. I recommend it for anyone needing a reminder of these things.

My Soul to Keep

2008-06-27T10:16:00.001Z

by Davis Bunn

Brent Stark thinks his days as a leading man are over until God—in the form of a visionary tycoon—offers him the role of a lifetime.

Celia Breach vows never to forgive Brent for the hurts he inflicted. Can she manage the unthinkable and trust him again?

Bobby Dupree, a southern entrepreneur with a revolutionary idea for film making, sets out to make a new kind of movie. He has all the faith he needs, but none of the know-how.

Shari Khan is determined to succeed in Hollywood at any cost. Backed by an influential studio, she makes it her personal mission to destroy the upstart “shoestring” production.

So begins the battle; an unlikely group of has-beens, armed with only faith and vision, against all the money and power Hollywood can wield against them.

~ back cover My Soul to Keep

God’s moving in on the movie industry. Christian entrepreneurs all over the nation, already committed to a weekly prayer chain, are now supporting Bobby Dupree. Dupree’s convinced that is God’s leading him to make a movie that brings glorify to Him.
It’s a bold, new idea that’s got Hollywood a little nervous, Shari Khan in particular. She never really believes Shoestring Productions can knock her own studio’s film out of the top ten list, but she takes extra precautions, just in case. It matters little that her “precautions” are illegal.
Brent and Celia are stars in hiding. Brent is an alcoholic, drug addict, and x-con, and Celia is scarred because of it—literally. Having given his life and additions to the Lord, Brent is laying low, working with lawn care, and praying he can keep his commitments to the Lord. That is, until he’s asked to resume his role as lead actor in a film that has all the promise of failure. Get Celia to co-star with him? She wouldn’t dare.
My Soul to Keep was intriguing, but when I read, it’s to get away from the screen. A book about movies and movie production seems to mess with that perfect system. Be that as it may, I learned a lot about Hollywood and the process behind making a film. It was quite fascinating.
It also served to remind me of how awesome our God is.
When something good happens in our lives, we thank God and move on. What we don’t see are all the details He’s orchestrated world-wide to move the little chess piece of our lives one space across the board. My Soul to Keep was a bird’s eye view of God’s workings. It was pretty impressive, and it was only a glimpse into an author’s imagination—not even close to God’s mind.
I came away from this book with a renewed sense of awe toward Him. We truly serve a mighty God.
Thank you, Mr. Bunn, for reminding me.

Bee a Lady Bug for Jesus

2008-06-12T09:35:00.001Z

by Marge Adams

B-Becoming Behavior is suitable, appropriate, pleasing, attractive. Don’t be loud, offensive, pushy, unkind, inconsiderate, angry. Purpose to be a godly example to influence others. Actions speak louder than words! “I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart.” Psalm 101:2
E-Encouraging Words are not unkind or harsh. They do not nag, gossip, or complain. “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.” Eph. 4:29
E-Elegant Appearance. Elegance is grace and refinement in movement and manners. Grace or restraint of style. An elegant woman is not sloppy, but neat and tidy. She is cautious of what she wears, prayerfully considering every outfit for modesty. In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works. 1 Tim. 2:9-10

A-Appealing Attitude. To appeal is to attract or arouse interest. Attitude is the position of the body or manner of carrying oneself. Our state of mind or disposition (mood) is usually evident in our body language. Guard your mind! That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Eph. 4:22-24

B-Busily Buzzing. Don’t be lazy! Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave whither thou goest. Eccl 9:10
U-Unique Design. “Be who you is, because if you is who you ain’t, you ain’t who you is!” Warren Wiersbe I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knowth right well. Ps. 139:14 “God made you as you are in order to use you as He planned.” S. C. McAuley
G-Godly Life Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world: Titus 2:12

ARE YOU A PLEASANT CONVERSATIONALIST?

2008-06-12T09:33:00.002Z

by April Gardner

Proverbs 16:23 The heart of the wise teacheth his mouth, and addeth learning to his lips.
Take a moment to stop and think of someone in your life that is truly a delight to talk with. Mind you, I didn’t say “listen to” or “talk to”, I said “talk with.” This someone might not necessarily be your spouse or even your best friend. He or she might be a person at church, or work that you look forward to running into because they’re always a pleasure to be with, if even for just a few minutes.
People can be classified by their habits of conversation with others.
The eye avoiders.
The tight-lipped.
The me, myself, and I.
And on and on it could go. Have you thought about how pleasant or unpleasant it might be to talk to you? Have you tried to improve your habits of conversation? Most of us need work in this area, including you.
There are a lot of things about a person that makes us want to be around them or avoid them, but one of the main ones is how they talk and what they talk about. How well can you answer these questions?
What is your favorite topic of conversation?
This is usually the area that needs to be tweaked the most, mainly because everyone’s favorite topic of conversation is herself. Our sin nature automatically makes every one of us self absorbed. It rears its ugly head most often when we talk. The more a person struggles with selfishness the more the conversation will revolve around what she does, what she thinks, and how she feels. Most moms will say they’d rather talk about their kids than themselves, but don’t forget that our kids are really just an extension of us. Constantly bringing the conversation back around to our kids is just as bad as talking about ourselves all the time.
Do the comments from the person you’re talking to simply remind you of something else you can say about what’s happening in your life? Do you impatiently wait for the other person to quit talking so you can steer the path back to yourself? Worse yet, do you interrupt them? Proverbs 17:27-28 He that hath knowledge spareth his words; and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit. Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise; and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.
Most people that talk chiefly about themselves and the events in their lives don’t even notice they’re doing it. For the next week, pay close attention to what you talk about. It’s ok to talk about ourselves some, but if it’s gone on for more than a minute or two at a time, and repetitively, there’s a problem. It has become a habit and just like any other habit, it takes time and dedication to change.
No matter who you are or to what degree you struggle with this, you will not accomplish change without putting yourself aside and thinking of others first.
Here’s a challenge for you. The next time you’re at church, pick someone you don’t normally interact with and go up to them with the intention of talking solely about them. Try your best not to refer to yourself in the conversation. I won’t lie to you. It’s not easy, but it’ll be good for you…and them! Phillipians 2:3-5 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.
2. Do you actively listen?
Have you ever attentively listened to a woman talk for a few minutes and when it’s time for you to add your two cents, suddenly she’s concerned with her kids or something else distracting? This is a woman that has not learned to be an active listener. Active listening involves being able to comment or ask questions about what the person has just said. It means looking at them while they talk, nodding, saying “I see” “how interesting” and anything else that shows you’re listening.
If you’re not practicing this, you’re revealing another side of your selfish heart. It tells other people that only what you say is important enough to listen to.
Can you play tennis with your words?
A healthy conversation includes both/all parties equally. Usually when there’s a problem with the “game”, the tennis ball is hogged by someone monopolizing the conversation, but there are also those that run from the ball afraid that they’ll be hit by it. For the first 25 years of my life, I was insecure and shy. As a result, I avoided dialogue because I was afraid I’d say the wrong thing. I now realize that this was just the inverted form of the “me, myself, and I” conversationalist. Both are wrong, and neither of them is fixable without the Lord changing the inner person first. Ephesians 3:16 That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man.
It takes skill to listen and at the same time be thinking of a comment and question to maintain a healthy interchange. Just like typing, knitting, or golf, it takes lots of practice to become a selfless, fluid and confident conversationalist.
A tip to keep the tennis match going is to end every comment with a specific question—one they can’t answer with a simple “yes” or “no”. Put the ball back in their court. Proverbs 20:15 There is gold, and a multitude of rubies; but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.
Think of how wonderful it feels for someone to ask “So how’s your sister doing? Is she still sick?” or “Did you make it to that appointment on time? I know you were concerned that you’d be late.” or “You look a bit discouraged today. Is there something you’d like to talk about?”
It sounds simple, but I can’t emphasize enough the importance of asking people questions! It shows that you care, that you’ve thought of them throughout the week, that you were listening the last time you talked.
Do you only focus on the negative or are you cheery and uplifting to be around?
Proverbs 17:22 A merry heart doeth good like a medicine; but a broken spirit drieth the bones.
Remember what mom always said (and what you probably repeat to your own kids)? If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all. Most of us can only be around a negative person in very small doses, and rightly so. If this is you, it’ll be hard for you to find uplifting things to talk about if you’re always thinking negative. Look for ways to be grateful in every situation and it will be reflected in the way you talk. In turn, others won’t dread a conversation with you. Proverbs 16:24 Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.

These are only four of the many questions that could be asked, but conquer these four and you’ll have dramatically improved your ability to carry a well-balanced conversation. Better yet, you’ll be more Christ-like. Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

Meet the Neighbors -- Nicole Glenn

2008-06-12T09:30:00.000Z

My name is Nicole Glenn and I have been married to my husband Kris for 4 years on May 22. We have been blessed with two beautiful children. KJ will be 3 in July and Cassie is 7 months. When April asked me if I wanted to give my testimony for the Sister Talk I was a little nervous, because I have really only told one other person. A few of my friends know where I have come from, but I have never fully put it into words to them. My Dad was raised as a Mormon. After he left home and married my Mom they decided that they were never going to force my brother or me to go to church or to be baptized. They said that they would never hinder our desires in going to church or wanting to be baptized, but they were not going to make us do it. So needless to say, I only went to church a handful of times growing up. I was agnostic for a period of time and at one point I believed in evolution and wanted God out of everything. But that all started to change when I met my husband. He kept asking me to go to church and I grudgingly went now and then. And the more I went the more I liked it. Then the movie The Passion of Christ came out. We went to see it, and it really softened my heart. It showed me what Jesus had done for me. It was that day that I started to believe in God and found the desire to want to go to church and to learn about our Lord. We moved here to England in March of 05. Our first year here was really hard on me. We had just had KJ. I had no friends, and I was very depressed most of the time. We went to church on Lakenheath a few times but never went regularly. Then we were invited to the Easter service at NTBC in 2006. It was the first time salvation had ever been brought up to me and I was saved that day with my husband. Even after I was saved I had a hard time comprehending my salvation. But slowly, I started the amazing journey of learning about our wonderful Lord and the amazing works that he can do in our lives if we are just willing to let Him. Since the Lord brought NTBC into our lives, I have made some wonderful friends. I have been able to get through tough times because the Lord has given me the strength and the people to help me through them. I don’t know where I would be right now if I wasn’t saved but I am very thankful that I don’t have to know. Well that is it. Now you know a little more about me.

The Hands of Jesus

2008-06-12T09:12:00.001Z

by Ruth Millar

I can never look at a baby without noticing their little hands, so perfectly formed, small nails that are the right shape and size for the tiny fingers, and it is not long before they grip tightly unto whoever is near. How can any believe that anyone, other than an almighty God, could form these perfect little hands?
Quite some while ago, I thought I would do a little Bible Study on the Hands of Jesus, for I realised that He too, once had tiny hands like babies of today. I also realised that it would take more than an hour or two to write about everything The Hands of Jesus did, there are so many wonderful miraculous things which Jesus did with His hands.
Nowhere in the Bible do we read that He used His hands to help Mary His mother, but as He was the oldest child in the family, I feel certain He must have made Himself useful with various household duties, even baby-sitting occasionally. We do know that He helped His earthly father Joseph in his workshop; for it was there that Jesus learned to be a carpenter.

We don’t read again about Jesus’ Hands, until He was 12 years old when He went missing for three days, this documentation ending with Mary finding Him in the temple with the scribes and elders, learning all He could about the scriptures.
The Hands of Jesus were used so many times to perform miracles. The first miracle mentioned was when these hands turned water into wine. The Hands of Jesus placed mud on the blind mans’ eyes, and immediately He could see. These Hands were outstretched to save Peter when he stepped out of the boat to walk on the sea.
The disciples were fishing one night when a storm arose, Jesus was asleep in the boat, they were quite abrupt with their question to Him, “Carest thou not that we perish?” Of course Jesus cared, but once again He tested their faith which at most seemed to be so weak. Again these Hands were raised as He said “Peace be Still” and the storm ceased.
The Hands of Jesus blessed the little children saying “Suffer little children to come unto me…” I feel certain His Hands held them very closely to Him as he hugged and loved them.
His Hands took the five loaves and two fishes; He blessed them and performed the miracle, for there was sufficient to feed over 5000 people with much to spare.
The Hands of Jesus healed 10 Lepers, yet despite this, only one returned to give thanks. His Hands healed the Lame man at the Pool of Siloam; they also healed the woman with the blood disorder.
After the disciples had been fishing all night with no success, Jesus called to them from the shore where, in the most human – yet sinless way, His hands had prepared breakfast for them.
As Jesus walked with two very sorrowful people on the road to Emmaus, they invited Him into their home even though they had no idea who He was, it wasn’t until His Hands blessed the bread that their eyes were opened and they then knew exactly who He was.
In the Garden of Gethsemane, Peter cut off Cephas’ ear, and immediately Jesus told Peter to put his sword away, and once again these Hands healed the ear, yet His Hands which did nothing but good, were used and abused when He was crucified for each one of us.
Many cannot understand why anybody would want to treat The Hands of Jesus in such a barbaric way when they had done nothing but good, neither can we understand why the Roman soldiers thought they needed to bind these Hands when they led Him away to be crucified, for Prophetic Scripture tells us, “He was led as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her Shearer’s is dumb, so He openeth not His mouth”. This was a normal human thing for these men to do for they were sinners controlled by Satan, so even though they saw Jesus always doing what is right and good with His Hands, they still chose to bind them. The Hands of Jesus were bound but he suffered far more for us, for His Hands were nailed to the Cross, and there he hung bearing the sins of the whole world. These Precious hands, these Healing Hands, these Nail-pierced and Nail-scarred Hands must always remind us how He willingly gave His life and shed His Blood to pay the price for our Salvation.
When Jesus rose again He showed His Hands and feet to His disciples, asking doubting Thomas to touch His hands and his wounded side, and although we can no longer see the Hands of Jesus, they are still open to us all; they are there to comfort us, to heal and to save.
OUR HANDS? Quite a contrast to The Hands of Jesus, but we can use them in so many ways in His service, for if we place our life in His Hands, we can do anything through Christ who strengthens us. Our hands which appear to be so weak in comparison, can become strong in His Might, for even though the Hands of Jesus were bound and nailed to the Cross, they were still Victorious Hands for they conquered death and paid the penalty for our sin.
We will never suffer like Jesus did, for He was forsaken by God His Father which surely was the greatest of all His sufferings. We can never repay the price that was paid for our Redemption, but we can endeavour to do all we can to show our gratitude, to the One who loved us so much that He allowed His Beautiful Hands to be Nail-Pierced for us all.

I have not much to offer to Christ, my Lord and King,
No wealth, no might, no wisdom, no noble gift to bring,
“Five loaves and two small fishes”, but what alas are they
Among the crowds of hungry who walk life’s troubled way?
“Five loaves and two small fishes”?
Not much, Dear Lord, ‘tis true,
But I yield them to my Master and see what He can do.
Placed in HIS HANDS of Mercy, my little will be much,
‘Tis not ‘My Hands’ that matter,
But His Almighty Touch.

When the Nile Runs Red

2008-04-04T14:00:00.001Z

When the Nile Runs Red
DiAnn Mills
Moody Publishers, 2005
ISBN: 978-0-8024-9911-0
April Gardner

Paul Farid, who once persecuted the southern Sudanese, now loves the weary people whose lives have been destroyed by ward.
Colonel Ben Alier has led his battle-hardened soldiers for two decades against the north, yet he pursues a relationship with his son even as his own demons pursue him.
Dr. Larson Kerr Farid works long hours caring for the sick, but fatigue and worry about her husband are taking their toll. And she’s just learned something that will make everything more complicated.
These three face constant danger as tensions escalate between the north and south, and as Paul’s family schemes to kill him and Larson. Will Paul and Larson bridge the gap that seems to grow between them? And will Ben find peace as more than a soldier?
~ back cover When the Nile Runs Red

When the Nile Runs Red, picks up right where the action and terror in Sudan left off in When the Lion Roars (DiAnne Mills, 2005). Paul, the missionary pilot, and Larson, the American doctor, are now married with a baby on the way. Larson is torn. She wants to stay in Sudan to help its people, but what is best for their child? A stray bullet could find her any day, not to mention those aimed straight at her. Knowing Paul will send her out of the country, she keeps the secret from him.
He only notices that Larson is ill and distancing herself from him, which greatly concerns him, but there is another pressing issue that requires his attention. His brother, Nizam, who has sworn to kill him, has now contacted him claiming to want to meet in order to learn more about Christ. It must be a trap, but what if it’s not? What if he lets pass an opportunity to share the gospel with his brother?
Colonel Ben Alier’s back has been hurting him more than usual. Actually, the pain is downright crippling. Could it be something more serious? Maybe even deadly? Thoughts of death press him to locate his son, the young man he has never met. When, Daruka, the woman who loved him thirteen years prior, shared that she was pregnant, Ben had walked away and never looked back. Now, he wants to make things right, but will Daruka let him simply walk back into her life? Her son’s life?
A good, single-word description for this novel is “tension”. There’s tension between Larson and Paul over the pregnancy; Ben and Paul over their love for the same woman--Larson; Ben and his illness; Ben and Daruka, as Ben forces his way into her life again; Paul and his murderous brother; and of course, there’s the war in Sudan, which is enough tension all by itself. When the Nile Runs Red is one of the most nail-biting (non-suspense/mystery) novels I’ve read.
DiAnn Mills has, again, done a superb job. She has created a host of lovable characters (even tough-as-nails Ben) and has put a heartbreaking human face to the current suffering in Sudan.
Read it. You’ll be changed forever.

The Other Daughter

2008-04-04T13:58:00.000Z

The Other Daughter
Miralee Ferrell
Kregel Publications
ISBN 978-0-8254-2659-9
2007

Susanne Carson knows that she can trust the love of her life—her husband, David—until she discovers a strange, unkempt young girl on their doorstep, claiming to be David’s daughter.
Not that their marriage has ever been perfect—David’s decision to embrace the Christian faith has strained their relationship. Susanne may not agree with his beliefs, but at least she trusts him. Has David been hiding this not-so-little secret from his past? He wants Susanne to believe in God, but believing hasn’t done much to keep David out of another woman’s arms. What else could her husband be hiding?
As David confronts the truth of his past, Susanne must face her own moment of truth as her marriage is taken to the breaking point and the life of one young girl is left in her hands.

~ back cover copy of The Other Daughter

Susanne Carson is hoping this birthday date with her husband will be the evening that they can finally get past this strained time in their marriage. The combo of his faith in God and her not-so-helpful friend, Jeena, has driven an uncomfortable wedge between them. They can really use the time to talk.
Just as she’s applying her lip-stick for the big date, there’s a knock at the door. Before her stands a fearful young girl, and in the background an old pickup truck is peeling rubber down the drive.
The words “My mama’s dead, your husband is my daddy, and my uncle doesn’t want me” not only ruin her evening, but her life…or so she thinks.
Who wouldn’t?
As the secrets reveal themselves against David’s wishes, the two struggle to keep their marriage together. And in the middle, a beautiful girl—Brianna, the mirror image of her daddy—is being hurt by their passive rejection. Sure they’ll let her stay…until they find another home for her. But what if no one else wants her? What if Susanne has to live for the rest of her life with a constant visual reminder of David’s unfaithfulness to her? So much for Christianity making you a better person. According to Susanne, it hasn’t worked for David.
Although awkward around Brianna, David really does want a chance to make things right for the daughter he never knew he had. If he could get past his insecurities and the fear of angering Susanne further, he would reach out to Brianna more.
What a unique situation Ms. Ferrell has created with this plot. How would you react to finding out that your spouse had a child by another woman, that he’d deceived you for twelve years, and now you’re forced help him clean up his mess? As a Christian I would find it almost impossible to react as Christ would. As an unsaved person, I think I might take the kids and walk out on him.
Even though an unbeliever, Susanne really does act graciously toward David. I wish I had seen more of Susanne’s rejection of Brianna. We’re told that it’s happening, but I never really saw it. I longed for a bit more tension, but was satisfied with how the book ended.
The secondary characters were written exceptionally well. The Carson’s oldest child, Meagan, should be an inspiration to all pre-teens of the way a godly young lady should act. Their son, Josh, is every mother’s rambunctious little boy, and Jeena, one of the protagonist, makes you so mad you want to slap her face.
I recommend The Other Daughter for its gut-wrenching plot and for the victorious, clap-your-hands ending.

In the Company of Secrets

2008-04-04T13:57:00.000Z

In the Company of Secrets
Judith Miller
Bethany House
ISBN 10: 0-7642-0276-6
2007

Olivia Mott didn’t intend to lie. Somehow, it just happened. And isn’t it all Lady Charlotte’s fault anyway?
Now Olivia’s position as assistant chef at Pullman’s elegant Hotel Florence is dependent upon her keeping her secrets. And sometimes lies have a way of leading to other lies. Should Olivia admit her real past and accept the consequences or keep quiet in order to preserve her comfortable new circumstances?
Deception seems to be part of everyday life in the company town of Pullman, Illinois, where the grand Pullman Palace Car is manufactured. Samuel Howard, Olivia’s friend and the town manager, seems to think everything is fine, but Olivia observes something quite different. Could it be that Olivia is not the only one harboring secrets?
~ back cover of In the Company of Secrets

Olivia Mott wants nothing more than to be a chef. When her boss Chef Mallard tries to take liberties with her and she refuses, he swears to ruin her name so that she might never become a chef in England.
Desperate, she takes advice and help from Lady Charlotte, and together they take a ship to America. Seemingly against her will, they fabricate a web of lies.
When it comes to Lady Charlotte, Olivia is more gullible and spineless than seems natural. The character’s saving grace is her upbringing in the staunch English social classes that has trained her to keep her lowly opinions to herself and do as she’s told.
The plot might seem contrived, with lies being told that appear necessary only to further entangle the characters in deceit. However, anything is possible to someone desperate enough, and that describes Olivia. She has the job of her dreams (assistant chef), and she’s doing quite well at it. To lose it would be heartbreaking. There is also a young man in her life that she is interested in, contrary to her lack of feelings for the wealthy Mr. Howard who has all but planned their wedding. If either of them find out who she really is and what she’s done to get here, she would be friendless, jobless, and homeless.
The character, Lady Charlotte was extremely well written. The woman is egotistical, spoiled, self-indulgent, and heartless. Following her self-destructive path was almost gratifying. I have a feeling we’ll be seeing more of Lady Charlotte in book two of the series.
Throughout the book, Olivia matures into a strong woman that learns to stand up to Lady Charlotte and confess her mountain of deceit. The mishaps and blunders that get her to that point are entertaining, if nothing else.
In the Company of Secrets offers a unique and unforgettable ride through the well-oiled world of Pullman, Illinois, our nation’s first planned industrial town.

Bachelor's Puzzle

2008-04-04T13:55:00.000Z

Bachelor’s Puzzle
Judith Pella
Bethany House, 2007
ISBN 10: 0-7642-0133-6

The women of the Maintown church ladies society eagerly await the arrival of the new circuit-riding preacher—a bachelor, they’ve been told. To welcome him, they and their eligible daughters decide to make him a quilt. The project turns into a fierce competition as each young woman tries to outdo the other in creating a quilt block so exquisite that it—and she—will gain the young minister’s attention.
Zack Hartley is unlike any preacher the church has ever seen. He bumbles about in the pulpit, and when he visits the sick, instead of praying for them, he hangs laundry, washes dishes, tends children—does whatever needs doing. His inexperience and humorous blunders, however, eventually prove endearing and only further encourage the young ladies in their obvious attempts to snare him.
But Zack is hiding something, and if his deception is found out, disappointing the Maintown ladies may be the least of his worries.
~back cover copy Bachelor’s Puzzle

1880’s Maintown, Oregon is overflowing with loveable, quirky characters, and you’ll learn to enjoy each one.
Be warned: there is a lot this back cover summary leaves out. After reading it, and before beginning the book, I was less than impressed with the plot. I mean, for real, what young lady actually thinks a well-done quilt block will win a man’s heart? No one’s that shallow and naïve. However, the first six chapters of Bachelor’s Puzzle are dedicated to just that. But Pella somehow pulls it off, and I’m quite certain it’s the larger-than-life characters that make the unbelievable, believable.
Ada is like every mother desperate to see her daughters wed well. Ellie (daughter #1) yearns for love, unrealistic though it may be. Maggie (daughter #2)…well, Maggie has better things to do than pine after a man. Fishing and jumping in the hay stack are top on her list.
All three are living, breathing people in my mind, especially Maggie who is rough and tumble to the core. When she’s insulted by another young lady, she takes it upon herself to prove everyone wrong and casts her hook in the preacher’s direction. Her awkward manners and immature approach makes for knee-slapping fun.
Zack Hartley isn’t thoroughly introduced until chapter six when the book really gets started. He’s another favorite of mine. This man gets himself into quite a pickle, and if the rest of the book didn’t exist, watching him wade through the mess he’s created is worth it all.
If you’re about to put Bachelor’s Puzzle down for good, at least give it to chapter six. At that point, I think you’ll change your mind. The plot takes a decidedly different turn and converts an average story into page-turning entertainment.
Waiting until a quarter of the way through the book to get the plot rolling was a risk that paid off for the author. To Pella’s credit, this is the first book in the Patchwork Circle Series, and she was forced to introduce a handful of main characters, not to mention about a dozen minor characters. It was confusing to start with, but worth it in the end.

Remembering the Retreat

2008-04-04T11:34:00.001Z

~Tracey Wright
I feel the one thing that God truly spoke to my heart about was for me to be content. I finally came to realize that maybe God had the kids and I living in a two room over-the-garage apartment for the year Jeff was in Korea to prepare us for when we got to England and moved in to this too-small-for-my-stuff house. He did it for a reason, (maybe for me to downsize).
Therein I should be thankful, and I must learn to live here joyfully praising Him for his wonderful works and His Love for me.

~Liesl DeField
I'm very thankful to my husband and my kids for allowing me the opportunity to attend the retreat in Germany this year. It requires everyone taking up the slack for me to leave town for 3 days! And what a great and exciting 3 days it was! I so enjoyed getting the opportunity to get to know the 13 precious ladies in close proximity and enjoy fellowship and the fun a "sleep-over" in a hotel allows.
My heart was challenged in several ways. The workshop I went to was entitled, "He Restoreth My Soul". And it touched my heart by showing me that if I believe as I should with all my heart, it will affect my actions, attitude, thoughts and feelings. A verse that was brought out in that seminar that has been working on my heart ever since is found in Micah 6:8, ". . . what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy and to walk humbly with thy God" A very deep verse when meditated upon and applied as much as we are humanly able.

~ Grace Winn
What stood out about the retreat to me was the morning devotion time with Karen Craft about the hormonal seasons of our life compared to how we feel. I'm suffering with problems in this area and don't know what season that is, but her telling us why we feel the way we do and knowing I'm not alone in this helped me a great deal. It helped me realize God knows what I'm going through and I just need to trust Him more to help me overcome my overwhelming ups and downs during this period in my life.

~Terry Rivera
I thank God for the opportunity to attend the ladies retreat 2 years in a row. It truly was a blessing to me. It was a wonderful time of fellowship and a great way to get to know the ladies in the church a little better. The prayer time that we shared in the morning was a terrific way to start the day off, lifting up one another’s needs to the Lord and offering a word of encouragement to each other.
One of the messages that touched my heart was “Caring For My Pastor’s Wife”. It was a good reminder to me of the many ways I can be a blessing and a support. Some of the ways mentioned were loving and praying for her, supporting her in ladies Bible studies and fellowships, encouraging her with notes and even “hugs”. Another message that the Lord spoke to me about was “Ladies and their hormones”. The Lord really showed me that I am responsible for everything I say regardless of how I am feeling during the month. I can choose to be Godly and fix my mind on Him all month long regardless of what “season” I am in.

~ Rebecca Weiss
I enjoyed the fellowship of the ladies that I don't normally hang out with. It was fun to get to know some of you a little better than I did. I enjoyed the workshop on friendship. God doesn't expect all of the people we meet in life to become our best friends, he just says to show our self friendly and love everyone like he would. The workshop taught me how to be a better friend and how some people are lucky to have 2-3 best friends in a life time and to be thankful for the close friends I have and the new friends I can get closer to. It also taught me to try and love those not so easy people that cross our paths in life.

~ Lisa Booth
The speech that most spoke to my heart was the one about the little girl who didn't want to give up her old pearls that were cheap and little did she know when she finally gave them up her father had a brand new pair of "real" pearls for her. How often does the Lord ask us to give something up and we just keep saying "no".
We want to hang on to whatever it is that God has ask us to give up and yet little do we know that if we would just do what HE ask he would give us something better.
The other thing I so enjoyed, which I always do, is the time to get to know ladies that you didn't know too well before......what a blessing! I truly liked the morning we all shared our prayer requests and prayed together.
I still have my prayer list with each of the ladies prayer request. I'll keep it in my Bible so I can continue to pray about those things that were asked.

~Karen Gardner
I anticipated loving the retreat, as I had been once before--the year that Seth was born, so I knew what to expect in one sense. But I was also pleasantly surprised at the unexpected blessings that I received from the retreat. And one of the unexpected blessings was all of the other ladies that went to the retreat with me. I got to be a part of a great group. I love the military life and I loved being with this group of military wives. It is a special job that you all do. I loved living it myself, and I love seeing other women doing such a good job at it. I also met some lovely Irish ladies, who were so interesting to talk to and hopefully we will be able to keep up with the friendship we made there in Germany. The one thing that Debi Pryde said that especially stood out to me was how we need to think Biblically about how we think and pray (my paraphrasing-no one else may have even heard these words, but they screamed at me). She said that we pray "Lord be with me...etc." when, in fact, the Lord has promised that He will never leave us or forsake us, but that He would be with us (as believers), so we should pray, "Lord, help me to be aware of your presence..." I have tried to weed out my "Lord be with so and so or in such and such situation..." and it has caught me with my mind racing, thinking- "What am I suppose to say here?" It has made me aware of the fact that so often I have been guilty of rote praying. I would have never thought so, but I have used such phrases as a crutch and I have gotten lazy in my prayer life. That is the one particular thing that I have been challenged by since the retreat. Thank you all so much for the graciousness you showed me while I was there among you. I look forward to seeing you all again soon.

How to Love Your Pastor's Wife

2008-04-04T11:32:00.001Z

1) Allow her to be who she is. Her main calling is to be the pastor’s wife.
2) Love her and pray for her and her family.
3) Don’t criticize her, her husband, or her children.
4) Do not put unfair demands on her time.
5) If she is young, encourage her
6) Support your church’s ministries that involve women
7) Ask God to give you discernment to meet needs among the church family, thus relieving some of her burden
Encourage her with gestures of love

~ Mina Ogelsby
Euro-wide Ladies Retreat 2008

Knitting Hearts Together in Friendship

2008-04-04T11:29:00.001Z

Definition of friendship: A friend is a trusted confidant to whom I am mutually draw as a companion and an ally, whose love for me is not dependent on my performance, and whose influence draws me closer to God.

The Characteristics of Good Friendships
Loyalty in the good times and bad. Proverbs 18:19a A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly. Hebrews 13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee—Christ is the supreme example of friendship
Sharing deeply—mutually listening, understanding, and caring. Proverbs 18:13 He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him
Having fun together.
Stimulating each other to: draw closer to Christ, see your own shortcomings, stretch your faith, etc… Proverbs 27:17 Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend. Hebrews 10:24-25 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
Be encouraging. Hebrews 3:13 But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.
Self-sacrificing: prayer, time, money. John 15:13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
Loving, without the expectation of something in return.

Making Friends
Sometimes we avoid initiating new friendships, especially when military transitions are just ahead. Never miss out on a chance to make a friend. You never know what blessings God might have in store for you, in the most unsuspecting times.
When making new friends, look for new opportunities. Take the first step, reach out to a variety of people (ethnicities, personalities, appearances) . It’ll “grow you”.
We need to leave the door open to new friends. Avoid cliques.
God does not intend that every friendship should develop. Some will only be acquaintances, a few more will be close friends, and a handful will be intimate friends.
Remember: rejection of friendship does not equal rejection of the person.
by Kathy Wood
Euro-Wide Ladies Retreat 2008

From the Manger to the Cross

2008-04-04T11:27:00.001Z

There were three trees together high up on a hill in the forest. They were all discussing their hopes and dreams when the first tree said, “Some day I hope to be a large treasure chest, I could be filled with gold, silver and many precious gems. I could be decorated with intricate carvings and everybody would admire my beauty.
The second tree said, “Some day I will be a huge mighty ship. I will take kings and queens across the waters and I will sail to the four corners of the world. Everyone will feel very safe in me because of the strength of my hull.
Finally the third tree said, “I want to grow to be the tallest and straightest tree in the forest. People will see me here on top of a hill and they will all look up to my branches. As they look at them, they will think of God and Heaven and realize how close I am to them. I will be the greatest tree of all time and people will always remember me.”
After a few years of hoping that their dreams would come true, a group of woodsmen came and cut the trees down. When the first tree arrived at the carpenters, it was made into a very ordinary feed box for animals. It was then placed in a barn and filled with hay. This was certainly not what this tree had hoped for.
The second tree arrived at the boatyard, he was very excited at his prospects, but they just cut him into small pieces. He was made into a small fishing boat. His dreams of being a mighty ship and carrying important kings and queens had come to an end.
As for the third tree—it was just cut into large planks and left alone in the dark.
The years went by, and the trees had forgotten all about their dreams, which as far as they were concerned, had never materialized.
Then one day….

A man and a woman came to a stable. They were more than happy when they were offered the animal feed box which stood in a corner. The owner of the stable wished that he could have made a lovely cradle for their baby, but this manger would have to do.
The tree now felt how important it was, for this woman was called Mary, and she had given birth to a baby boy called Jesus. The tree knew that it now held the greatest treasure of all time—God’s only begotten Son.
Years later, a group of men got into the small fishing boat made from the second tree. One of them was tired and he went to sleep. While they were out on the water, a great storm arose and the tree didn’t think it would be strong enough to keep the men safe. The men woke the sleeping man. He stood and said “Peace be still,” and the storm immediately ceased. The second tree then knew that it was important after all, for it knew that it now carried the King of Kings.
Finally, someone came and collected the very ordinary third tree. It was carried through the streets as the people mocked and laughed at the man who was carrying it. When they came to the top of a hill called Calvary, this man was nailed to the tree and raised up in the air. People spat in his face and when He said He was thirty, they offered him vinegar to drink. They then pierced his side with a sword and left him to die. This third tree now realized that it had reached a height and strength which was sufficient to stand at the top of a hill, and it was now as close to God as was possible, because the Lord Jesus Christ, the dearly loved Son of God was crucified on it.

There is a moral to this story, for how often do we think that things aren’t really going the way we would like. They aren’t going OUR WAY! Ordinary little everyday tasks aren’t really for us. We like to feel very important and noticed by everybody. But God has a plan for each one of us, and if we place our trust in Him, we will be blessed and rewarded in a way that will far outweigh our hopes and dreams. If we accept His offer of salvation, we will have the greatest reward of all; eternity spent in His presence.
Each of the trees got what they wanted. It certainly was not in the way they had imagined, but it was in a way that proved far more important than they had ever dreamed or hope.
We don’t always know what God’s plans are for us, but we must always try to accept that: His ways are not our ways. His thoughts are not our thoughts, but his ways are always best!

~ Author unknown ~revised and edited by Ruth Millar

Meet the Neighbors: Corina Finley

2008-04-04T11:15:00.000Z

Hello, my name is Corina Finley. My husband Kris and I have been married for almost 13 years now. We have three children; Ashley 12, Titus 4 and Leah 3. Kris and I met our junior year in high school in 1992. We were married three years later in June of 1995. Growing up my family did not attend church. I began going with Kris and his mother, Mildred, after we met. I was saved and baptized in the summer of 1993. Kris's mother was my best example of Jesus' love. She helped me understand a lot about salvation as a gift that we can do nothing to get, but we can just accept it and say thank you or not. She also showed me that salvation was a heart choice.
I will always be thankful to the Lord for putting me and my family where we need to be (even when it has been places we did not want to be). My husband joined the Air Force in 1995 and our first base was at Fairchild, in Spokane, Washington. We then moved to Wichita Falls, Texas for him to cross-train. After that we were sent to Little Rock, Arkansas where we spent about eight years. We joined a great church there, and when our daughter Ashley was five years old, she got saved. That was a wonderful day for us as parents. We pray for Titus and Leah that one day they too will be saved.
We moved here to England in August of 2007. We are so glad we were told about NTBC before we came here. I am so glad God answered our prayer for a good church family, because I really didn't want to be here after we first arrived. I know God has something for us here, or rather something for us to do for Him. We look forward to getting to know the families at NTBC and making some new friends.

~ Corina

Anger Management: Taming the Tiger

2008-04-04T11:12:00.002Z

submitted by Marge Adams
written by Cindy Meadows

Anger is a tiny word that carries a big punch! It causes some to raise eyebrows, others their voices, and still others their fists! It can be triggered by large things in our lives like hurt and pain, but it can also arise from simple things like frustration, irritation, and even being overly tired. The dangerous part of anger is that it can start small, but move to destructive levels quickly. The Bible says, “Be ye angry and sin not.” (Eph. 4:26). That helps us to know that God wants us to learn how to manage and control our anger, and not let it control us.
When Moses (in the book of Exodus) saw the burning bush, he was amazed that the bush burned, but it was not consumed. Anger is similar to the fire that burned that day, and our lives are similar to the bush.
God has given us the capacity to understand and work with our anger, so that we don’t allow it to destroy the very nature of our lives. Anger, out of control, always destroys!
So, how do we manage this tiger on the inside?

Understand First—You can control your anger! Raging anger is usually a learned bad habit. It can be changed with time, discipline, and sometime the help of others.

When you first feel angry—take action to get your SELF reigned in:

Physical Action:
Remove yourself from the source of your anger as soon as possible.
Take a brisk walk
Julius Caesar used to recite the entire Roman alphabet before he allowed himself to speak when provoked.
Vent in non-destructive ways—Punching a bag or pillow, bicycling, running, journaling, talking to a trusted friend in confidence.

Mental Action:
Talk to the Lord, specifically asking for insight
Try to determine what is the root and trigger of what angered you
Mentally go over the other person’s side, and the good points they made

Don’t deal with the issues that made you angry until you are ready to share how you see the source of the problem, and until you are also ready to listen. This may be days or weeks removed from the original disagreement. Conflicts are settled by sharing and listening!
I have found one of the greatest keys in working through anger is in the often-forgotten step of going back to talk after you have cooled off.

Once you’ve calmed down and your feelings have subsided, it is so easy to “just forget” the problem and go back to business as usual. Don’t do it! Go back and share what was important to you, and why you had such strong feelings. When you do this, you’ll find that your relationship skills will improve, your friendships will move to a new level of honesty and openness, and the greatest surprise of all--you will be learning exciting, new ways to managing your anger! That’s quite a reward in itself!
Last, but not least, is learning what to “forgive and forget” and what to definitely go back and work through. The question that has helped me the most in this area is “Can I pray forgiveness for the person, drop the issue and find peace?” If the answer is “yes,” then love covers a multitude of sins. If, however, it continues to bother me, and I feel unrest in my spirit, it probably needs to be caringly dealt with.
Anger is a wonderful servant, but a horrible master! When we can learn to work through our conflicts, care enough to confront, and love enough to reach out to build bridges-not walls-we will be taming the greatest tiger of all--the tiger of our own self!

The Other Daughter

2008-03-20T16:15:00.001Z

by Miralee Ferrell

Susanne Carson knows that she can trust the love of her life—her husband, David—until she discovers a strange, unkempt young girl on their doorstep, claiming to be David’s daughter.
Not that their marriage has ever been perfect—David’s decision to embrace the Christian faith has strained their relationship. Susanne may not agree with his beliefs, but at least she trusts him. Has David been hiding this not-so-little secret from his past? He wants Susanne to believe in God, but believing hasn’t done much to keep David out of another woman’s arms. What else could her husband be hiding?
As David confronts the truth of his past, Susanne must face her own moment of truth as her marriage is taken to the breaking point and the life of one young girl is left in her hands.
~ back cover copy of The Other Daughter

Susanne Carson is hoping this birthday date with her husband will be the evening that they can finally get past this strained time in their marriage. The combo of his faith in God and her not-so-helpful friend, Jeena, has driven an uncomfortable wedge between them. They can really use the time to talk.
Just as she’s applying her lip-stick for the big date, there’s a knock at the door. Before her stands a fearful young girl, and in the background an old pickup truck is peeling rubber down the drive.
The words “My mama’s dead, your husband is my daddy, and my uncle doesn’t want me” not only ruin her evening, but her life…or so she thinks.
Who wouldn’t?
As the secrets reveal themselves against David’s wishes, the two struggle to keep their marriage together. And in the middle, a beautiful girl—Brianna, the mirror image of her daddy—is being hurt by their passive rejection. Sure they’ll let her stay…until they find another home for her. But what if no one else wants her? What if Susanne has to live for the rest of her life with a constant visual reminder of David’s unfaithfulness to her? So much for Christianity making you a better person. According to Susanne, it hasn’t worked for David.
Although awkward around Brianna, David really does want a chance to make things right for the daughter he never knew he had. If he could get past his insecurities and the fear of angering Susanne further, he would reach out to Brianna more.
What a unique situation Ms. Ferrell has created with this plot. How would you react to finding out that your spouse had a child by another woman, that he’d deceived you for twelve years, and now you’re forced help him clean up his mess? As a Christian I would find it almost impossible to react as Christ would. As an unsaved person, I think I might take the kids and walk out on him.
Even though an unbeliever, Susanne really does act graciously toward David. I wish I had seen more of Susanne’s rejection of Brianna. We’re told that it’s happening, but I never really saw it. I longed for a bit more tension, but was satisfied with how the book ended.
The secondary characters were written exceptionally well. The Carson’s oldest child, Meagan, should be an inspiration to all pre-teens of the way a godly young lady should act. Their son, Josh, is every mother’s rambunctious little boy, and Jeena, one of the protagonist, makes you so mad you want to slap her face.
I recommend The Other Daughter for its gut-wrenching plot and for the victorious, clap-your-hands ending.

Remembered

2008-01-19T14:14:00.000Z

Tamera Alexander
Bethany House
2007
0-7642-0110-3

Colorado Territory 1871
The threat of war—and a final request—send Veronique Girard from France to a distant and uninviting country. In the Colorado Territory, she searches for the man who has held her heart since childhood—her father. Pierra Girar left Paris for the Americas to seek his fortune in fur trading, vowing to send for his wife and daughter. But twenty-five years have passed and his vow remains unfulfilled. Sifting through shards of broken promises, Veronique embarks on a dangerous search for a man she scarcely remembers.
His grief finally healed, Jack Brennan is moving on with life. After years of guiding families west, he is no working as a freighter to the mining towns surrounding Willow Springs. What he doesn’t count on is an unexpected traveling companion on his trips up into the mountains, and how one woman’s search will cause havoc with his plans…and his life.
~ back cover copy Remembered

Classy, particular, and outspoken, Veronique Girard is everything you’d imagine from a pampered French…servant? She might come from a life of service, but from the looks of her, you’d never guess. From the blond hair piled stylishly on her head to the lace gloves on her dainty hands, she does not belong in Colorado Territory--especially in dirty mining towns. And when I say “dirty”, I mean more than just muddy in the streets.
Jack Brennan swears he’ll never be the one to take the elegant Mademoiselle Girard to the disreputable towns she insists on visiting, but when she quite innocently buys his freight wagon out from under him, he’s forced to comply—or loose his job. Life suddenly gets complicated for Jack as he’s now escort and protector. Just the type of work he was trying to avoid.
Along the winding mountain passes and over the weeks and months they search the towns together, Jack comes to see Veronique as more than just a demanding lady of means that slows his progress. In fact, she’s become quite irresistible, and that just might get them in trouble if they’re not careful.
Veronique and Jack are opposites to the extreme and while the book ends happily ever after, I can’t help but wonder what kind of adjustments these two will have to each other once married. But it was fun to experience their annoyances with each other and to watch a delicate French lady cope in rugged Colorado Territory.
It took me longer to get into Remembered than it had the first two books in the series, but once the pace picked up, it was quite a ride. While each book in the series is just as interesting as the last, they are only vaguely related to each other. You could just as easily start at the end as at the beginning.
For its unique French twist and its intriguing contrast in characters, I recommend Remembered.

Culture-Proof Kids

2008-01-19T14:13:00.000Z

by Jeannie St. John Taylor

I’m a mom who takes disciplining and training my kids very seriously. That’s why I found Jeannie Taylor’s Culture-proof Kids enlightening. She gives practical advice on how to balance discipline with Christ-like love.
On the other hand, a Christian parent who slacks miserably in the same department will also see Culture-proof Kids as a gift from God. In it, a parent will be guided on exactly how to approach a great deal of sticky situations and survive to tell about it!
The whole idea behind the book is to build character in your kids. To mold them to be like Christ, not like the world. To instill in them a desire to do right. Of course, to achieve these goals in our kids, we, as parents, must arrive there first.
The first twenty-five pages exhort the parent to: depend on God, intensify prayer life, be a godly example. Fail to do these things and our children will reap the consequences. Yikes! This section is no walk in the park, but it alone is worth the price of the book.
The remainder is a series of 2-3 page segments dedicated to everything from discerning wisdom and foolishness to peer pressure. You name it, she’s covered it and saturated it with Scripture. In fact, in the last portion you’ll find a list of fifty Proverbs to memorize and refer to when needed. When faced with difficult parenting decisions, Solomon’s the man to turn to for wisdom.
One tip in particular that stands out was Ms. Taylor’s color-coded Proverbs. Take the time to underline in different colors the eight or so main themes of Proverbs (wisdom/foolishness, laziness, money, etc..). When needed, have a wayward child look up verses pertaining to their particular error. Have them memorize, write out, or simply read them. God’s Word is so much better at convicting and changing a rebellious heart than any parent!
The book is full of such practical advice and every one of them refers to God, to doing things His way and with His Spirit. From chapter one, I was inspired to be more holy. Not for my own benefit, and not because it’s a command straight from Christ, but for my kids. They’re worth the effort!
I can’t recommend Culture-proof Kids more highly.

What a Girl Wants

2008-01-19T14:12:00.001Z

Kristin Billerbeck
WestBow Press
2004
1-59554-185-3

As a successful patent attorney, Ashley Stockingdale has all the makings of a perfect catch—the looks, the brains, even a convertible. But at 31, she’s beginning to wonder if she’s been passed over for good.
Deciding to adopt a new attitude, Ashley suddenly becomes the romantic interest of three men within a matter of days. While her heart enjoys turning the tables on the dating game, the rest of her previously predictable world is being turned upside down. Is it more than Ashley can handle? Or is it exactly what she wants?
~ back cover of What a Girl Wants

A gift from one of my single girl friends, I had my doubts about “What a Girl Wants”, a book clearly written for the as-of-yet unmarried. It took another couple of steps in the “what April considers a bad book” direction when I saw it was contemporary fiction and it’s in present tense—two things I don’t usually care for. Ok, so I’m a picky reader, but I have very good reasons!
But I needn’t have worried. Ashley was just the change of pace I needed. She’s spunky yet insecure, fashion savvy yet brainy, single and becoming more desperately so by the day. All combining to make a perfectly hilarious book.
As Ashley tries to figure out if she’s still single “for a reason” or “for a season”, she’s suddenly basking in the glory of dating the world’s most gorgeous doctor. But there’s something about him that isn’t quite right…Is Mr. Perfect not so perfect after all?
And what about Seth? Well, he’s a computer engineer, which means he’s boring and balding and totally lacking in taste. But after a little thought, what’s so wrong with that?
These are the things Ashley must figure out. Maybe she won’t marry after all. It just might be easier to stay single.
Whether you’re single or a wife of ten years, I recommend What a Girl Wants for its refreshing, laugh-out-loud humor and its wit.
Thanks for sharing your “brain candy” with me, Kerrin! You’re a doll!

Revealed

2008-01-19T14:11:00.000Z

Tamera Alexander
Bethany House
2006
0-7642-0109-7

Colorado Territory 1870
Annabelle Grayson has been given a second chance at life, but she can’t claim it with the cloud of her past hanging over her in Willow Springs. After her husband dies, she advertises for a trail guide to accompany her to land waiting for her in Idaho—and a most unlikely candidate applies for the job.
Matthew Taylor is a man on the run, with consequences of the past mistakes pursuing him at every turn. Meeting Annabelle Grayson the first time was unpleasant enough, but when she crosses his path again, her presence in his life—and what she reveals—is devastating. If given a single wish, Matthew would turn back time and right a grievous wrong. If given a second wish, he would make Annabelle Grayson pay.
~ back cover copy of Revealed

Revealed begins with the death of Annabelle’s husband, the man who freed her from the local brothel. Jonathan somehow saw the potential in her when no one else did. He paid a steep price for the woman he loved, and even Annabelle couldn’t understand why. Before he draws his last breath he tells her, “A person can’t love someone else until they’ve learned to love themselves first…You have the seed to love inside you, Annie. It just needs some time to take root, is all.”
Annabelle soon learns that Jonathan is right, except her love is spreading its roots in the most unusual place—in the person that despises her the most.
Matthew is a man that can’t see the beam in his own eye for all his annoyance at the speck in Annabelle’s. Yes, he might have grudgingly agreed to escort her across 800 rugged miles, but he certainly isn’t going to be civil.
Rough weather and swollen rivers aside, it’s one challenge after another for these two as they’re forced to communicate and work together.
I felt the book dragged a bit as I waited for them to finally begin their trip to Idaho, but that aside, I really enjoyed it. Keeping up with Annabelle’s and Matthew’s cuts and insults was a blast. Later, their physical attraction is such a contrast to their previous relationship that it’s exciting and new up to the very end.
Hurrah! for book two in the Fountain Creek Chronicles.

Rekindled

2008-01-19T14:09:00.000Z

Tamera Alexander
Bethany House
2006
0-7642-0108-5

Colorado Territory 1868
Ten years ago Kathryn Jennings made a vow. For better or worse. And that promise still holds true, even though her marriage has not turned out as she expected. When her husband fails to return home one stormy winter night, she struggles to keep their ranch, but her efforts are blocked at every turn. After a shocking glimpse into her husband’s past, Kathryn uncovers a hidden truth. What she wouldn’t give to turn back time and be able to love her husband for the man that he was, not for the man she always wanted him to be.
Larson Jennings has spent his entire life running from a broken past, unable to trust, reluctant to try again. One fateful night, his life takes an unexpected twist, and soon he is forced to make a choice. Whatever he chooses, his decision may cost him his life.
~ back cover copy of Rekindled

Rekindled had me hooked from chapter one. It was the first of Tamera Alexander’s books I’d read, and I’m always a bit leery of unfamiliar authors. After finishing the Fountain Creek Series in a week (of which Rekindled is the first), it’s safe to say I enjoy her work.
With financial and physical hardships, Kathryn Jennings might be figuratively tried by fire, but her husband Larson goes through the fire quite literally. Help comes from the most unexpected place, and through the scars, he learns what trust really means.
Now to tell Kathryn…
The only problem is, she believes him dead, and he’s too ashamed of his warped features to tell her otherwise.
Through a unique plot and a handful of loveable characters, Rekindled demonstrates God’s grace toward us. Larson experiences this, and it changes his life. Kathryn begins to look at her husband through God’s eyes and is finally able to love him for who he is. But before they can get to that point, the plot twists and turns leaving the reader quite breathless.
I was sad to put the Jennings’ tale aside, but knew I was in for another adventure with book two—Revealed. Stay tuned for the review.

Why a Shepherd

2007-11-29T16:09:00.000Z

Leader, Protector, Provider, Healer…Can anyone be all that? Why would the Son of God describe Himself as “The Good Shepherd”? And what does this pastoral scene have to do with you? Here’s why everything in life—your life—depends on the Shepherd.
--back cover of Why A Shepherd?

Every faithful churchgoer has heard at least one message on the 23rd Psalm, on Christ as our faithful Shepherd, and on us, the wayward sheep.
After recently sitting in on two month’s worth of adult Sunday school lessons about sheep and shepherding and their correlations with Scripture, I didn’t think the Thoenes would have much to offer me in this little book. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that Bodie writes from experience as a shepherdess in the hills of California. That fact lends authenticity and personal sentiment to the parallels of this ancient profession with God and mankind.
Her aptitude for story telling shines through as she relates her experience among a flock of sheep and answers questions that you might have asked yourself in the past.
Why stand watch? Why worry? Why a rod and a staff? And of course, Why a Shepherd? By the end of the booklet, and after a dozen comparisons of us with sheep, the answer to the last question is more than clear. In fact, I began to wonder if God created sheep and gave them to us simply to show us how foolish and needy we are and how dependent we are on Him for protection, provision, and guidance.
This book might only take an hour to read, but when done, the reader is sure to see himself in a different light and feel an immense gratitude toward our Good Shepherd who cares for us even when we’re too distracted to notice.
Not as evangelistic in content as the previous two little BOOKS of WHY, the salvation message is still briefly, clearly presented at the end, including a few pages of guidance for the new believer. There is even a call for mature Christians to take up the profession of assistant shepherd just as Christ did to Peter when He said “If you love me, feed my sheep.” (John 21:15, ESV). It is our love-borne duty to tend to the needs, the hurts, and the education of the lambs (new believers) and the other sheep.
Why a Shepherd? is an ideal read for any Christian longing to understand their Savior--their perfect Shepherd--more intimately.
Jesus is and always will be, the Shepherd who is also a Sheep. As the Shepherd is the owner of the sheep, He has the authority and the power and the ability to meet their every need…because He came to earth to live as a man (sheep in this analogy), He knows everything about us and what we face and what we require.
Jesus of Nazareth is the perfect Good Shepherd…

--all quotes from Why a Shepherd? in italics

Copper Star

2007-11-29T16:07:00.000Z

by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Louisa Schmetterling, a resistance worker in Nazi Germany, is forced to flee the country of her youth when she discovers she has a Gestapo shadow. Copper Star begins with Louisa stepping from the train in dusty Arizona in the mining town of Copper Springs. She is greeted by Robert Gordon, the local church’s minister who has agreed to sponsor the refugee.
It doesn’t take long for Louisa to realize that Robert has a tragic secret of his own, and as the two grow closer, the secret creeps to surface.
Who would have guessed that even in Arizona, Louisa would need to run from the Nazis? The Gordon’s peaceful life is ravaged when Friedrich Mueller, a Nazi sympathizer begins to show his true colors.
Louisa’s resistance work picks up afresh, and if she doesn’t out-smart Mueller, she just might find herself in an internment camp or worse…
Copper Star was a surprisingly pleasant read. One doesn’t usually expect such quality from a small publishing house. Vintage Romance Press has done well to snag author Suzanne W. Fisher.
The writing was impeccable, the plot engaging, and the characters realistic.
Robert Gordon’s deaf five-year-old son, William and prickly Aunt Martha live with him, but no wife. Is she dead? Whatever happened to her, it has left Robert deeply wounded. He is serious and withdrawn and lacks the presence of God in his sermons.
Louisa, on the other hand, is outspoken and opinionated. Author Suzanne Fisher expounds on Louisa’s faults, yet expertly compels the reader to love her anyway. Louisa eavesdrops on conversations and pressures Robert to make decisions regarding his son’s schooling, but in the end, she’s the best thing that’s happened to the Gordon home—and to Robert.
With her strict, no-nonsense attitude and her unique way of showing love, I believe Aunt Martha was the most well written character. Her clashes with Louisa are very entertaining. Although the two women learn to live with each other and even like each other, Aunt Martha stays true to her stern character, which I was pleased to see.
The book is well-rounded with a very sensible romance, a villain that is truly evil, and more than one mystery to solve. Sweet yet pesky William is the cherry on top. The author created a jewel when she penned him, and he doesn’t say more than five words the entire book. Well done!
Keep your eye on Suzanne Fisher. I expect even greater things to come.

A Valley of Betrayal

2007-11-12T19:27:00.000Z

by Tricia Goyer

In July of 1936, Sophie Grace, an American artist, has entered Spain under the guise of reporter’s assistant. However, her real purpose is to find her fiancé, Michael, in Madrid. Her goal changes as bombs begin to drop and a sniper snuffs out the life of her beloved. Alone in a foreign country that’s tearing itself apart in power struggles, Sophie finds dignity and purpose in nursing the wounded. It is only a small step from nurse to putting the surrounding battlefields on canvas as propaganda for the Communist cause. However, now she’s a target for the Fascists, and she’d better run.
Phillip Stanford has come to Spain as a member of the American track team. Refusing to run in the Olympics in Berlin for political reasons, Phillip and his trainee, Attis, are more than willing to put aside their running legs and pick up a rifle for the Spanish Communist cause. Anything to slow Hitler’s pace. And then, in a forest pocked by enemy artillery, like a vision, a woman appears. Phillip might not realize it yet, but God has placed him in Sophie’s path for a reason that neither of them would have imagined.
In Germany, pilot Ritter Agler, family friend of Goring Himmler himself, is preparing to join the secret German Luftwafe as they fight to gain air control over Spain. Only, Ritter did not expect to be downed in Communist controlled Spain, nor to be stirred by the beautiful American nurse and painter.
A Valley of Betrayal is a moving account of the outset of the Spanish Civil War, an event that few Americans are familiar with. Ms. Goyer is very knowledgeable in the causes and events of the war and expertly leads the reader to a love for the Spanish people.
The Spanish Civil War was a battle between a bad cause and a worse cause—Fascism and Communism. However, Ms. Goyer does an excellent job of creating realistic sympathy toward the Communist, or Republican, party, who truly believed they were fighting for a better Spain.
The individual characters are spotlessly written, and Ms. Goyers style is appealing and impressive.
Having grown-up among the Spaniards of Madrid, I still had much to learn about this bloody war. I have visited the battlefields, seen the fortresses pocked by war, and experienced the country just a decade after the end of Generalissimo Franco and his suffocating fascist rule. However, I never truly understood what the Spanish people endured until I picked up Valley of Betrayal, book one of Ms. Goyer’s Chronicles of the Spanish Civil War.
That being said, the book had a mind-boggling slow start. There’s plenty of action right off the bat, but there is no connection between any of five main characters until three-fourths of the way through. Because of that, I found it difficult to maintain an interest in the characters’ plights, and read merely for the historical content. When the characters did finally begin to connect with one another, the book’s appeal made a 180 and finished with a “wow!” So, stick with it. It’ll be worth it in the end.
I immediately moved on to A Shadow of Treason, book two of the series, and I soon realized that book one was merely a warm-up. Stay tuned for a review of A Shadow of Treason.
To sum up, I highly recommend A Valley of Betrayal for its accurate and heart-wrenching account of Spanish history. When the last page is turned, you’ll feel a deep connection with the Spanish people, mourn their losses, and applaud their endurance in the midst of the horrors of war.

A Shadow of Treason

2007-11-12T19:26:00.000Z

by Tricia Goyer

In A Valley of Betrayal, the first installment of Tricia Goyer’s Chronicles of the Spanish Civil War, Sophie Grace is stranded in Spain as the war begins. Now, in A Shadow of Treason, she’s there of her own choice, and she’s using her time wisely. She’s moved from propaganda artist to espionage for the Republican, or Communist, cause.
Millions in Aztec gold are hidden in an unknown coastal cave, and it’s Sophie’s job to find it. Only one man stands in her way. Michael. Her one time fiancé, and the man she thought dead is secretly working for the Facists. Sophie must win his trust to garner his information.
The town of Guernica has been cruelly leveled by Nazi bombers and it seems there is no safe place left on Spanish soil, not even for horses. Jose, caretaker of Michael’s prize show horses, has returned home to see the animals to safety high in the mountains surrounding Bilbao. With just two old men to help him, the task is impossible, until a young woman fleeing assassination shows up on their doorstep.
Father Manuel and Dionne (the American volunteer), make return appearances, but their roles are so small they hardly seem necessary. The plot involving Ritter Agler (the Nazi pilot), is very interesting, but is unrelated to the rest of the book. I’m very curious to know how he will tie into the main plot in book three, which is set to release in February 2008.
The extensive history lesson and the gripping plot are worth the flaws in Spanish culture. On the whole, Ms. Goyer has executed a commendable piece of literature and one that I recommend to anyone not looking for a light read. The intensity, intrigue, and depth of character are sure to appeal to most any reader, male or female.

Mom's Minute

2007-11-10T20:24:00.001Z

by Liesle DeField

With the holiday season upon us, I thought I’d say a little something about developing family traditions. In our family we have some pretty off the wall traditions that we do to make Thanksgiving and Christ’s birthday festive, exciting and different.

Family traditions create a sense of unity and belonging and bring the family together in a unique way. Some traditions are deep rooted and enduring. For example, we always read the Christmas story on

Christmas morning before we do anything else. Other traditions have a shorter life span. Like those silly travel games and songs that seem fun the first time around but after the 15th time around, not so much! Don’t be afraid to try something adventurous as a family even if the final consensus is “let’s not make that one a tradition!”

One thing we particularly enjoy on Christmas day is having a birthday party for Jesus. It is, after all, His birthday. Instead of having a big feast of more turkey and more stuffing and more mashed potatoes, we have a special birthday cake for Jesus that we only have on Christmas Day. And we enjoy party food (yes, all kinds of junk food) and sparkling cider, we thank Jesus for coming to earth as a baby and allowing us a way to heaven.

Treasure the moments! Life is too short. The Bible says it’s a vapor! None of us know how long we will have together with our families. Enjoy every moment of being a mom! I am so thankful for the many ladies that God has brought into my life to mentor me during specific stages of our children’s lives. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been fed up with one of these “stages” and someone with much more wisdom and years would remind me, “Enjoy it, they’ll be grown before you know it.” With a smile through gritted teeth, I would try to politely receive and heed their advice. But do you know what? They were right! Time is passing so quickly, and I hope to treasure these moments and make them special for each precious member of this family.

CHANGE ME!

2007-11-10T20:23:00.001Z

I once saw a sign in a gift shop that read, “Prayer changes things.” I have found that prayer doesn’t necessarily change “things”, but it does always change me.

Usually, our perspective in prayer is not that we need to change but something or someone else needs change. We could pray each day that our husbands could get a new life – me! A more Christ-like me. Our first prayer each day should be, “Lord, I am standing in the need of prayer – change me!

Our husbands carry many burdens, and certainly I don’t want to be one of them! I don’t want to be his burden; I want to be his helpmeet. Perhaps the greatest way to uplift the heart of my husband is by staying spiritually strong as I serve with him. I want him to know that he doesn’t have to worry about my spiritual well being. Here’s an acrostic to help me pray effectively:

P – Praise. Praise the Lord for His attributes and thank Him for His goodness.
R – Repent. Confess all known sin. Keep short accounts with God.
A – Ask. Take Requests to God.
Y – Yield. Yield to the Lord and to His Word.
E – Everyone. Then pray for others: family, missionaries, pastors’, and friends.
R – Read God’s Word. Conclude your time of prayer by listening to God through His Word.

But what about prayer for our husbands? Something usually happens when we pray for others. Especially when we pray for our husbands. When we pray, a hardness of heart softens, anger recedes, our hurts are healed and forgiveness takes place.

You can pray for your husband in a variety of ways. How you pray for him, however, is not as important as consistently and frequently lifting him up before the Lord. Pray for your husband’s specific needs. The following list may help you develop a greater and more detailed prayer life for your husband.

Pray:
-That he will be Spirit filled
-That he will have a strong walk with the Lord
-That he will have a productive day
-That God will bless his appointments
-That he will able to handle the stress of the day
-That he will have a sense of fulfillment
-That he would have sufficient study time
-That God will strengthen him in his burdens
-That God will protect him from temptation
-That God will give protection from anyone wanting to hurt him
-That God will protect his reputation
-That he will be healthy – keep him well
-For his priorities
-For his responsibilities
-That he will be a good leader
-For his role as a father 3
-That God will give him the courage to make right choices
-That he will be encouraged
-That God will direct his path
-For his friends
-For safety from any danger
-That he would maintain balance in all his roles
-That he will continue to love righteousness and hate wickedness
-That he will have self-control
-That he will have peace and joy
-That God will give him wisdom in disciplining the children
-That he will recognize the lies of the enemy
Imagine the profound impact you could have on your husband’s life if you would bring these requests before the Lord on a regular basis. Imagine how your heart might fill with a deeper love for God and for Him.

(Taken from It’s a Wonderful Life by Terrie Chappell submitted by Liesl DeField)

The Leaves Speak

2007-11-10T20:18:00.000Z

by Theres Colgate

As I went in for another appointment, different than the others I have had before, I started to wonder about all the things that have been happening to me over the past few months. As the time went on and the doctors were running behind, I decided to walk down the corridor where the windows overlook the beautiful autumn trees. I watched for a long while as the wind blew the leaves briskly off the trees. They gently, very carefully, and ever so gracefully swayed this way and that until they landed in a spot just right for them. As I watched this everyday occurrence that goes unnoticed by most everyone else I thought to myself; God Almighty chose those leaves to fall at that exact moment. He swayed them this way and that until they landed on the spot that was just right for them. As I watched some more I thought to myself, oh Lord, one should go there or there, but one never did because God picks the spot. We may think we know what’s best, but the Lord sees all and knows what place is absolutely right for each little leaf, just as He knows what place and the amount of “swaying” (trials) is just right for each of His children. Then before I was called in the Lord reminded me that if He can so carefully place each little leaf into its perfect place, then He most certainly can sway me, His daughter into my perfect place. Isn’t the Lord such a beautiful artist, in nature! How much more of an artist He is with our very lives.
~Theresa Colgate

From Over the Hedge--Gillian Bennet

2007-11-10T20:17:00.001Z

It was such a blessing to be with you in church a few weeks ago. The fellowship of sound Christians was so uplifting.
I was asked to share some things with you for this newsletter, so I will endeavor to do so.
I was saved at age 27 and was so thrilled with this that I couldn’t wait to tell others. So from that time I loved sharing the gospel with people. However, with regards to how long ago our work started on the mission field... “Crown Hill Baptist Church” in the scouts hall started on January 19th, 2003.
Some of my greatest joys on the mission field is sharing the gospel with unbelievers, seeing people get saved, lives changed as II Cor. 5:17 comes to pass, and seeing our young grow in the Lord and learning not to be fearful to witness themselves.
Some struggles I find difficult to cope with is the lack of commitment to church services by some of our members who seemingly feel that they are doing God a favor by attending. They usually give feeble excuses as to what they have chosen over God. Our God is so Holy and worthy of all praise, our time and honor Amen!
Over the past few weeks, I have felt the Lord has enabled me to meet and fellowship with sound Christians, including our visit with you and this has been a real encouragement and I believe a way of recharging my batteries. The visit of two young boys and a young girl to our church has been just two of many blessings.
With regards to prayer requests, there is one thing in particular that I would kindly ask you to earnestly bring to the Lord. David doesn’t often complain to me about the problem he has with the “hemi facial spasm of his right eye and side of his face”. Sometimes it seizes closed, flutters, and he temporarily losses of vision. Often, it continues through the night keeping him awake. Then exhausted through lack of sleep, he faces a full day. I know this is really wearing him down and he feels embarrassed as it is disfiguring at times. Please could you pray that the Lord would heal him? However, we are aware that the Apostle Paul has had a thorn in his flesh, yet I live in hope that all things are possible with God. So, could you please petition our Savior over this?
People have their own ideas of what Jesus means to them, and what characteristics is revealed more fully to them. To me, ever since a young child, though not saved then, Jesus has always been Holy Holy Holy to me, and as I think on Him, I feel warmth, love, but always Reverence.
There are many scripture verses I love, difficult to pick one, although the famous “Footprints” poem never fails to touch my heart.
Ladies, never underestimate the role you have in prayer and practical application with others. Just remember that it was the Holy Spirit that moved Even Roberts to start a revival in Wales all those years ago. David and I visited the church in Mid Wales and was informed that for many months prior to the revival, a group of women prayed that God would do a mighty work in their area.
Prayer was answered mightily Amen!
Love in Christ,
Gillian Bennett

The Fischer Adoption Story

2007-11-10T20:16:00.001Z

I asked Faith Fischer to take a moment to fill us in on the past and present of the adoption process she and Rich are going through. She has graciously agreed. The road has already been long and weary and they still have a ways to travel before they can hold in their arms the child God has picked out for them. Thank you, Faith for sharing your burden with us! - April Gardner

Because of my age and health, my husband and I started thinking of adoption in 2004, before we got married. We couldn't actually start the process until we had been married a year (policy), so we started it just before the year was up. In 2005, we got certified for only the state of AZ to adopt an infant. We didn't get a child before we got orders to come to England, so we started the process all over again once we got here in Nov of 2006. We then decided to go international and adopt from the Ukraine because the child would look like our own child naturally. Ukraine doesn't adopt out children younger than 18 months old, they give their country first opportunity to adopt. We are trying to adopt a child from age 18 month to 2 yr old. We got certified really quickly since we were already certified in state of AZ. We had our home study done shortly after getting into our house in Dec 2006. It took a long time to get all the paper work done (we were used to the agency doing all the paper work and had a lot of questions to ask in filling it out). We had all the paper work done in March and sent in to the agency in Montana.
On August 9th, we got the clearance from London to travel to the Ukraine to adopt a child. In the meantime, the Ukraine made a new ruling that everything had to be done within 6 months (before it was within 15 months). So we had to redo all the paperwork of notarizing everything because 6 months was going to be up within 1 month after getting the clearance from London. We now have all the paperwork back in, but they are now requesting we redo our police reports and we hope to get that mailed back to them today (Oct 10th) and pray everything will go through this time. It has already been 2 months since the clearance from London, so we only have four left.

Please pray for:
A judge that is pro- adoption so the court process doesn't take too long.
Bedding that is not feathers (mattress, pillows, and comforter)
Our travel plans (we are thinking of going to Hawaii because we can get everything but the Visa done there within 3 days, walk in)
Staying healthy while in the Ukraine, and the amount of time it takes us to get the Visa.
Please also pray for the finances to travel, hotels and all. In the states if we go to AZ we have friends we will stay with while waiting for the Visa. We are hoping to get military hops from Hawaii to CA and maybe then even from CA to AZ. Rich hopes to take one of his certification exams to be a teacher while in AZ.

Well, we finally are getting closer to the date of getting ready to go to the Ukraine . Today (Oct 30) the dosier paper work is being over nighted to Ukraine for them to okay it and then our interpreters will give us a travel date to go. My sister, Karen, brought up a good point that there is radiation side effects that we might need to be aware of when choosing a child. Please be praying that God will guide us to the one He wants for us. We have been praying about the health of the child and for direction once we get there every since we started the process.
I think the most joyous times of the adoption process were getting certified to adopt, both in AZ and here and extremely joyous when we heard back from London for the clearing because then everything should be really close to adopting. The frustrating part was doing all the paper work when we had it all done by the agency in AZ and then having to get through it all here. The other hard part was we paid out all that money in AZ for certification and none of it counted on this adoption process. I can't really say there has been a verse that I've claimed but have found daily in-depth Bible study VERY important.
Thank you all for your prayers as we wade through this process.
~ Faith Fischer

Meet the Neighbors--Denise Sandifer

2007-11-10T20:12:00.000Z

My name is Denise Sandifer. I am 32 years old. I was born in Kentucky. At 12 years old, I moved to Georgia. I was not raised in a Christian home. We were very poor. I grew up with an older sister, Donna. My parents were divorced when I was 16. I now have three new siblings: Sara, 14; Autumn, 14; Clay, 12. It is a bit odd to have children the same ages as my siblings but it is neat also.
In 1990, I met Josh Sandifer, my husband of now 15 years. We met in the 9th grade. In 1992, we had our first son Spencer. He is now 15. Being teen parents was not easy, but praise the Lord for Josh’s parents who helped us through it. We have three sons: Spencer; Marcus, 11; and Logan, 10.
We have lived here in England for 11 years. Eight of those years, we have been NTBC members. My car broke down in the driveway of the church. We were invited in, so about two services later, we joined. We knew right away God was telling us to join. I was saved at 16, but never stayed in church. After joining NTBC and regularly hearing the gospel, I realized in 2002 that I needed Jesus and understood what that meant. So, in 2002, I was saved and baptized here. So were Spencer and Marcus.
I have worked in the nursery, choir and clean cleaned the church since 1999. These walls aren’t just brick and paint to me. This is my home. I have learned so much from the pastors and so many wonderful ladies along the way. I welcome all of you, and look forward to serving our Lord and Savior with you. God bless you.

ALL THE TEA IN CHINA

2007-11-04T16:09:00.000Z

by Jane Orcutt

From regency England to the mysterious Orient, Isabella Goodrich is all surprises—some a bit incredible. Just how does a high society lady end up a stow away in a cattle stall on a boat to China anyway? But the author, Ms. Orcutt, pulls it off and makes the reader fall in love with this spunky, fearless character.
Isabella Goodrich, at twenty-five, is an acclaimed spinster that can wield a sword with precision while quoting intellectuals and spouting theorems. As far as society is concerned, she’s much too educated and far too physically active for a proper gentleman’s daughter. She’s the talk of every social event with her book learning and private fencing lessons. Since no man will court her, much less marry her, she’s given up on the idea of matrimony. There’s not man out there who could keep up with her anyway. God, however, captures her heart, so, she surrenders her life to mission work in faraway China.
Phineas Snow, the dowdy missionary that unintentionally inspired Isabella to her new life’s work, is traveling back to China on the same ship. It takes only days to discover that the humble missionary has hidden a few details about himself that might have been helpful to know before she stowed away. After two months sharing a cabin with a man that, for propriety’s sake, she must call “brother” might lead to disaster, or maybe to something more beneficial for them both…
All the Tea in China is saucy and charming, a fun read that is sure to brighten your day. However, this novel is more than wholesome entertainment. It is Ms. Orcutt’s latest and final work. Published shortly after she lost her battle with leukemia in March of 2007, All the Tea in China is a wonderful legacy to a great Christian author. As she rests in the arms of her Savior, her great stories live on with us here. I encourage you to read them and remember her and the Lord she wrote for.
Good work, Jane. We’ll miss you.

Sophie's Dilemma

2007-11-03T19:41:00.001Z

(Daughters of Blessing 2)
by Lauraine Snelling

Certain she can’t live without Hamre Bjorkland, the impetuous Sophie Knutson rejects her father’s request to postpone her marriage until after graduation and convinces Hamre to elope. But life as a fisherman’s bride in Seattle is not all that Sohpie had envisioned. Pregnant and lonely while Hamre’s out at sea, she hires on at a fish cannery, only to be fired after fainting on the job.
When tragedy strikes, heartbroken Sophie can think only of returning home to Blessing.
But will her family welcome her after the way she’s hurt them by her defiant behavior? And will she ever open her heart to love again?
~back cover of Sophie’s Dilemma

I ended the review of the first book in this series (A Promise for Ellie) on a slightly negative note. It was slow and rather dull.
It is my pleasure to announce that Sophie’s Dilemma picked up the tempo and threw in a few twists that kept my interest peaked. I was rather leery about reading it, but am glad I took the time.
Fortunately, because it picks up with a character little known in the previous book, this one has very little to do with the first. Sophie, unwise in her youth, makes very poor choices that she pays for dearly as the plot unravels. It was uplifting to see her growing and maturing and learning from her mistakes.
Quite a different line of characters simultaneously have their own set of troubles. Ingeborg is seeing the doctor regarding female problems, which creates complications for those in her home. While I sympathized with this character, I found it difficult see exactly how this storyline related to Sophie’s. I came to the conclusion that it simply did not. Ingeborg must be a character from a previous series and the author must have felt compelled to continue her story. Once I figured that out, I stopped trying to solve the puzzle and simply enjoyed the plot.
If you were at all disappointed in A Promise for Ellie, you should still pick up Sohpie’s Dilemma. I believe you’ll enjoy it.

Courting Trouble

2007-11-03T19:27:00.001Z

by DeeAnne Gist

Well, Ms. Gist has lived up to her name again. Witty, alluring, and loads of fun, “Courting Trouble” was everything I hoped it would be and then some.
Essie Spreckelmeyer, thirty and unmarried, is certain God has forgotten to find her a mate. Never mind. She’ll just have to catch a husband on her own. Complete with a list of the town’s eligible bachelors including their points of merit and their drawbacks, Essie baits her hook and casts the line.
She has more than one bite, but something or someone always gets in the way of reeling her catch in. However, it’s her own lusts and craving for freedom that wreaks the most havoc on her romantic possibilities. She quickly finds herself worse off than when she began.
Maybe God was right after all. Maybe she was never meant to marry…
As with the author’s previous two novels, “Courting Trouble” pushes the envelope with describing the physical relationship between a man and a woman. It’s certainly not your typical Christian novel in that regard. I personally feel that Ms. Gist’s writing is at the border of what I would accept as appropriate reading material. That being said, those particular scenes are very tactfully written. She does a superb job, and I really enjoy the breath of fresh (and realistic) air from our normally stuffy and rigid Christian bookshelves. That’s saying a lot coming from a conservative reviewer such as myself.
I don’t normally recommend Ms. Gist’s books to girls in their teen years. This one, however, teaches a valuable lesson that just might benefit a young lady of “courting” age. Essie is driven by physical desire and goes a step (or two or three) too far. She then must deal with the guilt and shame and as a result learns that God should be who she longs for and depends on, not a beau. A wonderful point to be made for any young woman seriously dating. “Courting Trouble” might be set in the late 1800’s, but the principles ring very true for any century.
Ms. Gist is a genius with a hook, and with the first chapter of “Courting Trouble,” created the best opening I’ve ever read. I dare you to read it and disagree.
I highly recommend “Courting Trouble”.

Captives and Kings

2007-11-03T19:07:00.001Z

by Craig and Janet Parshall

Remember, remember the fifth of November
Gunpowder, treason and plot.
I see no reason why gunpowder, treason
Should ever be forgot...

As the fifth of November rolls around yet again here in jolly ole’ England, the bonfires and fireworks in every town and village help to do just that—remember.
As an American, you might need a bit more than a reminder of what happened in London, on November 5th, 1605. If you have seen the movie “V for Vendetta” you probably have a cursory understanding of the foiling of Guy Fawkes’ plot to blow up the Houses of Parliament and kill King James I.
But for a more detailed telling of the story, I recommend “Captives and Kings,” book two in The Thistle and the Cross series by Craig and Janet Parshall. This historical novel kicks off with Guy Fawkes skulking in the cellar of the Palace of Westminster, checking and rechecking his barrels of gun powder and fuses.
I will leave the re-telling of history to the Parshalls. They do an excellent job. However, permit me to introduce you to the fictional characters.
Phillip Mackenzie, Scotsman and wayward brother, is accurately linked to the fuses that were to ignite the gun powder. Will he face the rack, or will he make it aboard a ship bound for the New World in time to save himself?
Phillip’s son Peter has given his heart to the lovely Rose Heatherton but is forced to relinquish their love or risk her life by association.
Andrew Mackenzie, brother of the fuse-maker, is an ambitious yet godly aide to King James. The rift between he and his brother seems impossible to mend, but that is the least of his worries. Being related to the traitor is enough to expel him from his work on the translation of the Bible authorized by King James. But will his enemies stop there? And what of the new plot against the Crown?
“Captives and Kings” is a must-read for lovers of deeply historical fiction. It is weighty in its content and moves a bit slow. But if that doesn’t bother you, then go for it. You’ll gain a barrel-full of knowledge about the 1600’s English governmental system, the translation of the KJV, and even the New World, which at that time was still a virtually unknown land. The possible reasons for the disappearance of the Colony of Roanoke are also mentioned and explored, which I found fascinating.
While it might lack some in good pacing, “Captives and Kings” is still a very good read and one that I recommend.

THE HAND THAT BEARS THE SWORD

2007-11-03T17:09:00.000Z

by George Bryan Polivka
Newlyweds Packer and Panna Throme are once again thrust into high adventure. Pirate Scat Wilkins returns with evil intentions for Packer as the Trophy Chase sets sail for deep waters once again. A new and surprising Hezzan in the Kingdom of Drammun has diabolical designs on not just Packer but on the entire Kingdom of Nearing Vast. And, at home, Panna must await Packer’s hopeful return while imprisoned by the lecherous Prince Mather.
Will Packer and Panna escape their separate dangers and find happiness in the Kingdom of Nearing Vast....or will the invading Drammune army steal away their future and that of all the people of Packer and Panna’s homeland?
~ back cover of “The Hand the Bears the Sword”

If The Trophy Chase Trilogy were put on film, it would give Pirates of the Caribbean a run for its money. Polivak’s novels have all the pirate adventures, sword zinging action, and terrifying sea creatures of the block-buster movie trilogy, but with a moral lesson and a focus on God that’s unbeatable. Book three would have to be very bad indeed for this series not to stay at the top of my “all time favorite Christian novels” list.
Because the characters and setting have already been introduced, The Hand that Bears the Sword is easier to get into than The Legend of the Firefish, the first in the series. The Hand picks up a couple of months from where The Firefish left off.
Packer thought he’d righted the world of his impulsive mistakes, but he’s wrong. The long fuse on the consequences of his actions has just begun to burn. He scrambles to smother the fuse, but fails. The Vast armada is destroyed, war has been ignited, his homeland is being invaded and there is nothing he or the mighty Trophy Chase can do to stop it. He isn’t even sure the Trophy Chase will make it through the next sea battle, much less be able to return to port and beef up the country’s defenses. It’s one seemingly hopeless situation after another for Packer and the Vast people, but God hasn’t had His say-so.
Under the thumb of a smitten, greedy prince, Panna is in a similar dismal situation. She’s determined to stand firm to her faith, her morals, and her husband, but must she sacrifice one of her greatest treasures in the process?
There are quite a few surprises for the reader in this second installment of the Trophy Chase Trilogy. Here’s a morsel to whet your appetite…the firefish is no longer the enemy. In fact, the sea beast just might be…well, you’ll have to read to find out, which I suggest you do first chance you get.
Although The Hand the Bears the Sword could be read independently from the first in the series, I do not recommend it.

Out and About Iceni Village

2007-09-17T17:10:00.000Z

Iceni Village & Museums

For a historically insightful daytrip with a host of photo opportunities, visit the Iceni Village in Cockley Cley located 3 miles SW of Swaffham off the A1065.
To more fully appreciate the village, you should know the history behind the most famous Iceni, Queen Bodecia.
Boadicea led the Iceni people through a glorious war against the Romans. The Iceni Celts had submitted their kingdom to the Romans in AD 43. Almost twenty years later, Prasutagus, King of the Iceni people and Boadicea's husband, died, leaving Bodecia to rule. Soon after, dispute led Roman soldiers to publicly beat Boadicea. Deeply insulted, the Iceni revolted with their Queen at the helm. For two years, Bodicea and her people pillaged Roman settlements, but the superior Roman army finally crushed the rebellion, and Roman rule was re-established. Queen Bodecia remains the greatest of the heroines of Britain.
The Iceni Village in Cockley Cley was reconstructed on an original site and is a representation of how these “barbarians” lived. It was similar to the Anglo Saxon Village in West Stow, and was interesting enough.
However, the real jewel of the visit is the 17th century cottage just across the road. Free reign is allowed in this two-story farmhouse, meaning take all the pictures you want! You won’t want to pass up a snapshot of the indoor privy situated on the top ledge of the narrow, winding staircase. Knowing me, I’d misstep on a nightly visit. Aaaaahhhh! Splat.
There is also an ancient Saxon church a stone’s throw away from the cottage. Literally. It is thought to be one of the oldest in the country.
A museum can also be found adjacent to the Iceni Village. In it, you will find a wide assortment of vehicles from ages past. I never knew there were so many different types of carriages! The kids will enjoy this one.
Take a picnic along, because there is a 2 km nature trail around a lake. For lack of time, I didn’t walk the perimeter, but imagine it would be enjoyable.
All of this can be enjoyed for 5 pounds per adult and less for children. It’s quite a steal.
It is open from daily from April-October 11:00-5:30pm; July and August 10am-5:30. For more information, call 01760-724588. To insert into you GPS, the postal code—PE37 8AG.

Do You See Jesus in Your Clouds?

2007-09-17T17:09:00.000Z

by Ruth Millar

“And there was a cloud that overshadowed them, and a voice came out of THE CLOUD, saying, this is my beloved Son, hear him.”
Mark 9:7,8

We have had lots of sunshine and very little (if any) rain just recently. Not many weeks ago, there were terrible floods everywhere, so to see a few clouds in the sky today pleased me. This may seem odd, but I would like a good shower (overnight if possible). Personally, clouds represented a good thing today, but that is not always the case!
Why do we always think of “clouds” as something not too nice? We talk about “A great cloud hanging over me”, or “they are under a dark cloud just now”. If we read through the Bible, we will see that “clouds” often represented God’s presence.
Think of the Israelites were led by the cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. This was a good cloud under which to be. Clouds in our life always seem to be sorrows, suffering, or trying circumstances that affect our personal lives, yet more often than not it is through these “clouds” that God is teaching us to walk by Faith. If there were never any dark clouds in our life, we would have little or maybe no faith at all. Would we really need the Lord’s help? We might not think so.
I turned to the book of Nahum 1, verse 3 “…the clouds are the dust of His feet.” Thoughts ran ahead of me (as usual) and I imagine the Lord leading me rather than driving me, for if He walked behind me, I would not see the “dust of His feet.” I then realized that these clouds made by the dust of His feet are the sorrows, bereavements, or sufferings, which so many go through; they are a sign that GOD IS THERE. Dr. Adrian Rogers quoted: “God’s will, will never take you where His Grace cannot keep you.”
Dark clouds will be yours and mine every now and then, but I feel certain they are sent to make us trust more and to bring us nearer the One who is there to help and pick us up when we fall.
When we are the suffering ones, it is so difficult to try to understand why God is allowing us to go through this, and even more difficult to realize that He knows best.
Another Adrian Rogers quote which I have taken on board several times: “When we are in pain, we ask God to take the pain away—sometimes He does not. We then pray for added strength to bear this pain. Sometimes, we don’t feel any stronger. So, the final prayer must be: “May I use this trial to be a blessing to others.” Ouch! That hurts!
When Jesus Christ was transfigured in the presence of Peter, James, and John, Jesus stood in their midst with his raiment shining as white as snow. In Mark 9:7&8 we read, “And there was a cloud that overshadowed them, and a voice came out of the cloud, saying, this is my beloved Son, hear Him.” Then I read what happened after they had listened to God’s voice:
“They saw no man anymore, save
JESUS ONLY with themselves”
None of us enjoys living under a cloud, but stop to ponder a while—is there anybody or anything else in our clouds? I hope not, for if there is, our outlook will only get darker and darker.
May we all learn to trust the Lord more, ask Him to increase our Faith, and hopefully and prayerfully, we will arrive at the place where we see nothing and no one else in our clouds except:
JESUS ONLY

Meet the Neighbors ~ Sarah Horrex

2007-09-17T17:08:00.000Z

My name is Sarah Horrex, and I am 26 years old. I grew up in Michigan, but have also lived in Texas and Arizona. I am not in the military, but I live in England because I fell in love and married an Englishman. Nathan and I met on a Christian website. I never thought I would find love in cyberspace. After seeing each other about 5 times, we were married in Arizona on November 19, 2005. Shortly after that, I moved to England and married again 3 weeks later. We decided to have a 2nd wedding ceremony so Nathan’s family and friends could be a part of it too. I’m sure it sounds wonderful to wear your wedding dress twice, but I have to admit, it was very stressful walking down the isle with a 150 people staring at me that I didn’t know. It was a great time, but I am glad I don’t have to do it again. Nathan and I don’t have any children, but I hope that will change soon.

I work as an accounts secretary at Rossdale & Partners, which is an equine vet practice in Newmarket. I enjoy cooking, sightseeing, and spending time with my husband.
I was saved at a camp meeting service when I was 15 years old. My dad was dating my step-mom at the time, who is a Christian, and she always insisted that I attend church with them. If it weren’t for their determination to bring me to church, I wouldn’t be saved today. I made this decision 10 years ago and it was the most important decision I have ever made. During this time I've had a growing sense of purpose and peace and I pray that God will continue to lead me so that I can tell others of the joy that He has given me. Some of the ministries that I have been involved in are nursery, choir, and junior church.

I do pray that the Lord gives me contentment while living in England. It has been very hard being away from my family as all of you can relate. My first year here was a struggle, but I am getting better with the Lord’s help. I am very thankful for this church and I hope I will get to know all of you and do great things for the Lord.

Sarah Horrex

Meet the Neighbors ~ Teresa Johnson

2007-09-17T17:07:00.000Z

Military Mission

"When you marry a man, you marry his mission." So quoted Mrs. Benneth Jones at Bob Jones University in South Carolina. It was 1993 and I was a senior majoring in Guidance and Counseling (Psychology). I was dating Jonathan, the man I now call my husband. Little did I know just how I would learn to live by those words.
I grew up in a wonderful Christian home in Walkertown, N.C. Down the road in Trinity, N.C. some thirty miles away, Jonathan was growing up in his wonderful Christian home. I grew up at Gospel Light Baptist Church in Walkertown where my parents taught Children's Church and worked in the Bus Ministry. Jonathan went to Spring Field Baptist Church in High Point where his dad was the youth pastor. My life was pretty straight forward.
I had (have) an older brother and sister. Lived close to extended family and attended Gospel Light Christian School from K-5 until I graduated in 1989.
Jonathan also lived around extended family, went to a small public elementary school in Trinity and had (has) an older brother. At the age of seven, Jonathan’s Dad was diagnosed with Leukemia and when Jonathan was 12 his dad passed into glory. Within the year, Jonathan’s brother left for the Air Force and in the next year Jonathan and his Mother were caught in a church split.
These events, while sad, eventually led Jonathan to Gospel Light Church and School. There we met at church homecoming in June of 2003. We began dating in October of the same year. We logged thousands of miles running up and down I-85 between home in N.C. and college in Greenville S.C. But every mile was well worth it.
Now back to the words of wisdom from Mrs. Jones. It was Feb. 12, 1994, in one of Charlotte, N.C.'s five star restaurants that I received a proposal of marriage. I said "yes" of course. I was looking forward to graduating, coming home, discontinuing the long distance relationship, and being together with Jonathan and our families. Then on Feb. 17th, 1994 my, then fiancé came to BJU for an unexpected visit. He had news. I was excited, thinking it must be wedding related, But NO!! It was information on the United States Air Force, the same Air Force he had joined the day before! Never had I any notion of being a military wife.
But the words of Mrs. Jones echoed through my head. I knew if God had hold of the heart of the man I planned to marry, then I would have no problem following his mission, no matter where on earth it took us. While not going to the ends of the earth, we have been a little ways around it.
I have enjoyed thirteen years of marriage, three beautiful children, ten moves, and four countries with Jonathan on his "mission". This journey has been enhanced through the churches God has provided, and the meeting and fellowshipping with our sisters and brothers in Christ. Deployments have been few, so Jonathan has been there for the births of our three daughters; Audreigh 10, Emileigh 8, Alleigh 5.
I have enjoyed Georgia, Germany and Iceland. I am now having a wonderful time in England. I homeschool and the girls and I sew, cook, read, craft, shop... well everything together and spend as much time as we can with Dad.

I enjoy reading, sewing, cake decorating, puzzles and needlepoint. Every place Jonathan’s "mission" takes us I try to learn something new. England has introduced me to gardening. Though my girls have much greener thumbs than I have, I use the opportunity to share with my girls Gods truths and plans for their lives.
I want them to see that I am happy going wherever the Lord sends their Daddy. I made a commitment to him and to God the day I took his ring. I have only one more thing to say, for your wisdom and example of the Christian lady, thank you Mrs. Jones.

A LESSON FROM A DANDELION

2007-09-17T17:06:00.000Z

by Marge Adams

One bright, beautiful spring morning a lady took a walk in the woods. She sat down to meditate upon the goodness of God in giving such a lovely world to His children. She thought, “How happy we should be in this life while preparing for the life in the world to come!”
Her attention was called to a little well-known plant growing nearby. It was the dandelion. There he stood, not with his sunny golden head, but with his head already turned to snowy white. His short life was fast drawing to a close. The soft breeze caught up some of his white locks that were ready to fall and bore them away. August winds carried others away and still others, until at last the dandelion stood quite alone. His work was done. All that was left would soon molder back to earth and be forgotten.
But what about the little seeds among the white locks that had been carried away by the breeze? Some of them fell not far away; while others sailed and sailed in the air and fell nobody knows where, there to take root and grow into other plants.
“Just so it is with our lives,” thought the lady. “Though we shall live here a brief period of time and may be seen by few people, yet our influence will reach here and there and far away because of our words and deeds, when we have returned to dust and have been forgotten.”

Taken from the book, “Moral Lessons Of Yesterday”, compiled by A. L . Byers

The Scripture relevant to the lesson comes from Matthew 5:6, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”

It takes a moment to do something nice for someone.

If we have an attitude of love in our hearts toward others we will think of them before ourselves. We will ask our heavenly Father to show us ways we can be a blessing to them. We will allow the light of Jesus to shine through our actions of care and concern for the needs of others. We will find that we will have more joy in our own hearts and lives when we find ways to show God’s love through

doing good for other people.

A thought I read in the Sunday School book I am using for the Jr. High girls class said this, “If you do one kind act for someone every day for 10 years, you will have touched and blessed the lives of 3,650 people.”

A tremendous thought . . . a convicting challenge. :) Let’s pray to take the challenge and allow our LIGHTS to shine for the Lord everyday.

~ Ms. Marge

WHERE WILLOWS GROW

2007-09-16T20:13:00.000Z

by Kim Vogel Sawyer

Anna Mae isn’t sure he husband is being completely honest about his job with the Works Progress Administration. They’re building a castle? In Kansas? Harley promised he’d be at the worksite only long enough to earn enough cash to keep their farm. But the money hasn’t arrived, and Anna Mae fears Harley may be gone for good.
Harley Phipps has never been a man in need of luxuries, but he wants to do right by his wife and two little girls. Anna Mae was awful mad when he sold the mules, packed his bag, and headed out. If only she’d send him a short note to let him know she and the girls are all right…
~taken from the back cover of Where Willows Grow

Whom the back cover doesn’t mention is Jack Berkley, the man that’s been sweet on Anna Mae since they were knee high to a mule. As soon as the dust from Harley’s traveling feet settles on the road, neighbor Jack makes his appearance, ready and more than a little willing to be Anna Mae’s support in time of need. Only he takes his role a bit too far and increases Anna Mae’s needs by withholding her mail from her husband. She’ll never know that Harley really hasn’t abandoned her…or will she?
We see this story from several different points of view, Anna Mae’s and Harley’s being the two primary. Like any marriage, this one has its problems. The two squabble, misunderstand each other and jump to conclusions. On most occasions, Ms. Sawyer gives the reader a view from each side of the argument. She does such a great job that she has you totally convinced that one or the other is in the right. That is, until you see the picture from the other side. Two thumbs up, Ms. Sawyer, for portraying this marriage in a realistic light and for making me chuckle in the process.
Chuckling aside, the Phipps marriage has potential for blowing away, just like the top soil in this drought ravaged, 1930’s Kansas setting. Never mind the financial and emotional strains. Jack Berkley alone is determined to do this marriage in, and there isn’t a whole lot that’s going to stop him, including the law. Will Anna Mae succumb to his wiles, or will she see through Jack’s façade and remain faithful to the man she married?
With her first novel, Waiting for Summer’s Return, Ms. Sawyer was just warming up. In Where Willows Grow one can see a maturing process in her writing, and I, personally, like what I see.
Her style is down to earth, warm, and inviting—just like her characters. Unless, that is, they’re arguing.
Sadly enough, this is a story that we see played out in the real world far too often. Any married individual would enjoy and benefit from this eye-opening story.
Where Willows Grow gets my hearty praise.

A SEAHORSE IN THE THAMES

2007-09-16T20:12:00.000Z

by Susan Meissner

Alexa Poole was to spend her week off from work quietly recuperating from minor surgery. But when carpenter Stephen Moran falls into her life—or rather off her roof—the unexpected happens. His sweet, gentle disposition proves more than she can resist and now she’s falling for him.
~ back cover of A Seahorse in the Thames

The opening chapter of A Seahorse in the Thames was very compelling. Alexa, single and notorious for picking losers to date, has found the man she wants to marry, and she’s only known him a week. Stephen’s kind and compassionate, the sort of good quality person one rarely sees. He’s also now unconscious after blacking out on Alexa’s roof. Could it be his brain cancer has returned?
Isn’t that a great start to a book? Very original. Caught my attention immediately. Needless to say, I was disappointed when the story took a drastic turn. Stephen is left in a hospital bed or on the other end of the phone line, while Alexa solves the mystery of her mentally incapacitated sister who has suddenly gone missing.
I should have known the direction the book would take since Susan Meissner is more of a suspense type of gal. Once I readjusted my expectations, A Seahorse in the Thames took on a new interest. Disturbing questions arise about the shocking accident that left Alexa’s sister with a child-like view of life. But if she’s going to investigate, Alexa had better be prepared to cope with the answers, because they aren’t pretty.
A Seahorse in the Thames is about a family’s ugly past and their different methods of surviving it. In that regard, Meissner did an excellent job of making each of the six characters palpable. It’s written in the first person, which isn’t my favorite, but certainly adds to the intimacy of Alexa’s character.
For all you lovers of suspense, this might be the book for you.

SANCTUARY

2007-09-16T20:10:00.000Z

In 1740 France, Huguenots are not a welcomed lot. One of them, Pierre Dupre is running for his life. Scotland is his ultimate goal, but will he make it there before he’s caught and killed for his beliefs?
Rachel, his bride of convenience and along for the race of their lives, has her own secrets and she’s not sharing.
Captain Vallae finds Rachel irresistible and will have her for himself no matter the cost. Until, that is, he’s made privy to her heritage. Now, he simply wants her dead.
Theirs is a perilous journey across French soil, through the choppy English Channel, and north through wintry Britain. But Rachel and Pierre, one in mourning and the other in love, slip through Vallae’s grasp time and again, learning to depend on each other and the Lord through each trial.
Sanctuary is a wonderful resource of French religious history and delivers a greater appreciation for the sacrifices our forefathers made because of their faith.
In Sanctuary, you will find a humble love story, an adventure, a history lesson, and a simple account of faith all rolled into one. Those who lean towards Christian historical fiction will find enjoyment in Sanctuary.
I look forward to the next in the Faith of Our Fathers Series. With this first installment, Ms. Bull has outdone herself.

TO BELIEVE OR NOT TO BELIEVE

2007-09-16T15:23:00.001Z

NESSIE'S STORY

Right up there with Big Foot, the Abominable Snowman, and Norway’s Storsie, the Loch Ness Monster (or “Nessie” as she is affectionately known) would be the star of any Legendary Monsters Convention…if she’d brave an appearance.
So far, she’s spent her 300+ years chomping lazily on the millions of salmon that spawn in Scotland’s most renowned loch. With 24 miles of length and a thousand feet of murky, peat-saturated depth, Loch Ness is the ideal place for Nessie to stretch her flippers.
Being quite shy, she avoids the noisy boats and bright lights of those who would seek to capture her massive image on film and claim the title of “man that proved Nessie’s existence.” Up to this point, she’s been quite successful.
Even so, throughout the centuries, there have been thousands of sightings, but most of those that have had the “privilege,” have been frightened senseless. Nessie would never be so rude. No, that would be the other side of the family.
What? You didn’t know Nessie had a family? Then you must not know about Cousin Morag who lives in nearby Loch Morar. Yes, he’s making quite a name for himself too.
Try as I might, I couldn’t catch a glimpse of either of them on my recent trip to the area. I even visited Urquhart Castle on the shores of the loch(where many sightings have taken place), but the only thing that caught my attention there was that I would have to pay ₤8 to enter the facility and use the loo. At the current exchange rate, that’s room and board for a night…well, not exactly, but you get the picture.
As life would have it, there was a sighting not three days after I left. (Humph! I miss out on all the fun!) But come to find out, it wasn’t that big of a deal. You can see it for yourself here. Unbelievers would say that it was just a seiche (saysh), an unusual and very strong underwater current that occurs in very deep lakes such as Loch Ness and Lake Champlain, where another serpent-like creature has been reportedly spotted.
Nessie’s existence/non existence is for each to decide for himself. Myself? I would like to believe that there really is an over-sized fish/monster somewhere in that vast loch. Why? Well, wouldn’t it be awesome if God had a surviving dinosaur or two tucked away in remote parts of the world, just to prove the evolutionists wrong?
Personally, if I were a sea-dwelling monster, I’d choose Scotland too. I mean, you can’t beat the scenery or the friendly atmosphere. The kilts are hot, the accent is alluring, and the haggis is—well, let’s just leave the haggis out of this beautiful picture, and we’ll all be the happier for it!
Nessie? Are you out there?

BITTERSWEET by Kathy Marie Hake

2007-09-16T15:20:00.000Z

Laney McCain has dreamed of claiming Galen O’Sullivan’s love since she was a scrawny girl. Up to now, Galen has seen her as no more than a pesky, little sister to his best buddy Josh McCain. But the awaited day has arrived. Laney is now a woman and Galen at last sees her as such.
Enter Ishmael and Ivy Grubb, twins and squatters on O’Sullivan land. Galen feels pity for them and allows them to stay on, working for their keep. The twins have had a rough life of it, and when Ivy sees the opportunity to make it better, she jumps at it. Unfortunately, improving Ivy’s life means destroying Galen and Laney’s dreams.
Bittersweet is one of those rare books that throws in a crazy, unforeseen twist. The story line and characters intrigued me from the get-go, but about half way through, all the dilemmas presented at the beginning were solved. At that point, I recall thinking, This book had better get interesting fast, or it’s going to lose me.
My wish was granted when, shortly after, the plot took a hair-pin curve. I was hanging on for dear life, but enjoying every minute of it.
The twins, Ishmael and Ivy are a hoot to get to know, and despite Ivy’s schemes, she’s an endearing character. The book is worth reading if only to enjoy these two with their naïve country speech and antics. They would fit in perfectly on the set of “The Beverly Hillbillies.”
Laney was somewhat too good to be true. How she found it in herself to handle treachery with such grace is unrealistic, even for a firm Christian.
Because the characters were a bit on the saintly side, I didn’t glean much from it, spiritually speaking. But that aside, the book was charming, unpredictable, and hard to put down.
If you’re looking for something light and fun, you’ll enjoy Bittersweet.

Karen Kingsbury Interview

2007-09-16T15:04:00.001Z

Thank you, Karen, for allowing At Home with Christian Fiction this interview! Through your books we have witnessed God’s eternal love for His children and how He can restore broken lives. We’ll be eagerly looking forward to the release of your movie, Gideon’s Gift!

Those with us today are: Dell Smith Klein (http://www.smithklein.net); April Gardner (http://www.aprilgardner.com); Catherine Terry (http://www.athomewithchristianfiction.com)

Karen, your website held an abundance of great information pertaining to your professional and personal life! We would like to refer our viewers to your FAQ page On Becoming an Author, URL: http://www.karenkingsbury.com/faqs, for information regarding your writing journey.

CT: Karen, I can’t help but consider all of the many readers that you have influenced by your writing. I read that you had created the trademark, “Life-Changing Fiction ™ ” in order to describe your books. Would you care to share with us some of the ways that God has used your writing to change lives?

KK: Many people write to tell me that God has used my books to save their marriage or to help heal a relationship. Some people have even remarried after reading one of my novels. It’s humbling and amazing to watch God work through the power of story.

CT: How has publishing played a role in your spiritual life?

KK: I am forced – thankfully – to stay very close to God so that I can have fresh takes on Scripture for my stories.

CT: What is your seed Scripture and why?

KK: Jeremiah 29:11 is a verse I use often, because it’s wonderful to know that our God has a plan for our lives.
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

DSK: How do you go about researching your books? Do you do all the research yourself, or do you have a staff to handle that?

KK: I research through personal experience and through exploration of the web. I handle all research, although before my brother died he was helping me with some location research.

DSK: I was particularly interested in the Redemption series. Did you do onsite research after Nine Eleven?

KK: Yes, I researched by visiting Ground Zero and talking to the people who were personally involved in the tragedy and clean-up after that horrible event.

DSK: In April I reviewed SUNRISE for At Home with Christian Fiction. Have you, like Dayne Matthews and Katy Hart, been dogged by journalists and photographers?

KK: Not really. Once in a while I get recognized or find the topic of my books coming up more than usual – but for the most part I don’t live a life like Dayne Matthews. There are big conference type events where I get more of this feel, and that’s been helpful in researching the life Dayne Matthews leads.

DSK: Please tell us about Gideon’s Gift and the upcoming movie.

KK: Gideon’s Gift has been held over to Christmas, 2008 – it should release around Thanksgiving of that year. Also, Like Dandelion Dust will be released in theaters sometime around summer, 2008.

AG: In your article “A Call to Adopt”, one of the huge things that struck a chord in my heart was that your three adopted sons are so grateful for even the smallest things and have such tender hearts for the Lord. The trials that they endured in their young lives have certainly molded them in this way—the way we as American parents long for our children to be. Have you seen these Christ-like qualities being transferred to the rest of your family? In what other ways has your family’s (specifically your biological children’s) attitudes/dispositions been positively affected by these additions to your family?

KK: Our decision to adopt was a family one, therefore from the beginning I’ve seen Christ’s love amplified in all members of our family. It’s been six years since we brought home our first two adopted children, and I’ve only seen that love and acceptance grow. God has blessed our family’s decision again and again and again.

AG: What was the most discouraging part of the adoption process?

KK: The length of time it takes to process paperwork, and the waiting while our file sometimes sat on the desk of someone in Haiti for weeks at a time.

AG: What advice can you give someone interested in adopting?

KK: Make it a family decision, and then pray about whether you can handle a special needs child or not. We chose to adopt kids without special needs – though all kids are special and have needs! In this way, we could handle adopting three boys who weren’t biologically related, because all our focus was on blending and transition, without the additional concerns of special needs. I think a special needs child would be best in a family where the other children are already grown. Also, of course, much prayer is needed before, after, and during the adoption process. It is only by God’s grace that the details ever work out.

AG: You stated in your “A Call to Adopt” article: “Adoption has also made me more compassionate in my novel writing.” Have you written or plan to write a book that deeply involves adoption?

KK: I’ve written several books that involve a thread or theme of adoption. Those can be found on my website, where I list my books by topic.

AG: How long was the adjustment period for your family once Joshua, EJ, and Sean arrived?

KK: The greatest and most intense period happened in the first three months while our new little boys learned English.

CT: I read the pages on your website dedicated to America’s heroes of the war. I prayed for the many faces before me and thanked God that you created a place where we can honor our soldiers, those currently serving and those who have fallen.

KK: I’m glad you’re enjoying this page.

CT: What inspired you to create this branch of your ministry?

KK: I wrote Ever After, a novel devoted to the troops – both fallen and active. I decided a page on my website was very necessary, after hearing back from thousands of members of the military and their families.

CT: Knowing that God is faithful, have you received any praise reports from the families of the soldiers you placed on your site?

KK: Definitely. God is working in the lives of our troops.

CT: For those who know someone who is currently serving in a war zone, and would like to send you information concerning the individual, what are you looking for?

KK: You can find this on my website at the soldiers link.

CT: I encourage all of our readers to visit Karen’s website (http://www.karenkingsbury.com). Today we have only covered a portion of the ministry which Karen Kingsbury has built.

KK: Thank you . . . this is a great place for readers to learn more about the ministry of fiction, and the lives God is touching.

CT: Is there anything, in particular, that you would like to share with our readers before we end this interview?

KK: Thank you so much for your devotion to reading stories with the power to change lives. I consider each of you my friends, because that’s what we’ll be in heaven. I hope to meet you in person someday! Until then, may God continue to hold you close and bless you and yours with His great love and mercy.

CT: Thank you, Karen for taking the time out of your busy schedule to visit with us.

Sheltered in Him,
Catherine Terry
At Home with Christian Fiction
http://www.athomewithchristianfiction.com

Chocolate Beach

2007-07-16T20:48:00.000Z

By Julie Carobini

Bri Stone has it all: the man of her dreams and their surf-riding teenage son, a chocolate-loving best pal, an adorable beach bungalow, and a kicky job as a Southern California tour bus host. She also has a few things she did not ask for: a know-it-all friend, a snobby mother-in-law, and a Fabio-meets-Dilbert boss. All three of them seem eager to share their strong opinions and suspicions about Bri's relationship with her husband, Douglas.
~ back cover of Chocolate Beach

For Bri Stone, life has taken quite a turn. Douglas, her lawyer husband, the man that once adored her, is now too busy with clients and pressing cases to have time for more than a quick telephone conversation. Bri hardly needs her nosy friend’s unasked for insight to begin doubting her husband’s fidelity.
Maybe a wardrobe make-over will catch his eye, but why stop there? Why not the hair and the home too? Lovers of all things home décor related will appreciate the eccentric interior decorator and her lofty ideas.
At work, Bri’s new boss, Ty, seems pleasant enough, asking for business advice, hosting private meals. Maybe he’s a little too nice… Bri seemed a bit too naive about this man’s advances, but when she does finally realize what’s going on, it’s pretty hilarious.
Bri’s best buddy, Gaby, is the kind of friend every woman wants—someone to cry to, to laugh with, and find a husband for. When life gets dreary, Bri-Bri and Gaby gorge on chocolate. “I…want…chocolate!” Those three little words have become our mainstay, our mantra, if you will. It’s what we do.(excerpt) What woman can’t relate to that?
Speaking of women, this is definitely mom-lit. Bri’s relationship with her pre-teen, surf-loving son, is spot-on, as the British say. He’s a cute kid, albeit with normal teenager short-comings. I liked him.
A word for you romance addicts. Chocolate Beach, has little (if any) romance. As a matter of fact, the hero is out of the picture for most of the book. Because he’s never around for his wife, he is an unlikable character. Poor Brianna needs Douglas now more than ever, but she hardly confronts him about his continual lack of presence, which I found rather annoying.
On the whole, Chocolate Beach (Carobini’s debut novel) is a fun book with a quirky voice. I laughed out loud several times and enjoyed the witty banter. It was a bit slow in parts, but the spunky dialogue kept me going.
If all else fails, the cover of the book will make your taste buds tingle and trigger feelings of euphoria. I…want…chocolate!

Annie's People Series

2007-07-15T15:19:00.000Z

ANNIE’S PEOPLE
by Beverly Lewis

Vol 1: The Preacher’s Daughter
Vol 2: The Englisher
Vol 3: The Brethren

Annie Zook, the only daughter of an Old Order Amish preacher is torn between her desire to please her parents and her artistic yearnings. Painting is strictly prohibited by her church district, but that hardly stops her from squirreling away to her secret studio. When Englisher Ben Martin enters her life, she has one more secret to hide—forbidden love.
Her life-long pen pal, Louisa Stratford, longs for a reprieve from her high class Denver life. Annie’s simple Amish ways seem to be just the remedy she’s in need of.
Annie’s parents worry that Louisa will tempt their daughter toward the modern life, but Louisa would never dream of encouraging Annie to leave the life that makes her who she is. As a matter of fact, Louisa is considering taking up residence in Amish Country herself, and a handsome, single member of the community would be more than pleased if she would. Or will he simply join her on the outside world?
Secrets abound in Annie’s small town of Paradise, Pennsylvania. One of her brothers is sneaking around dating a non-Amish girl. Esther, her childhood friend, is hiding the fact that her husband is abusive. And what became of Isaac, the little boy stolen in the night some fifteen years ago?
Will the Brethren always stand in the way of Annie’s happiness, or will she need the courage to step away from all she’s known, trading her family for her passions?
The Annie’s People series is quite original, drawing the reader in with a host of full-fleshed characters. It is Ms. Lewis’ best yet, and that’s saying a lot coming from someone who thought herself beyond satiated with the Amish setting.
This particular series puts the Amish in a more realistic light, not being quite as romanticized as Ms. Lewis’ other series. While emphasizing that the Amish have the right idea about family unity and community brotherhood, their way of life is shown to be tedious, not for the faint of heart. Perhaps this is because we see it from the point of view of Louisa, an “Englisher” who is adjusting to life among the Amish.
That being said, the reader is left with the urge to slow down, simplify her life, and focus on family. Who can’t use a bit of that?
There is an edge of mystery to it, as well, that took me somewhat by surprise. What happened to little Isaac? Whose bones did the plough turn up? You’ll have the ending figured out by the beginning of book three, “The Brethren”, but you’ll never guess how Ms. Lewis gets you there.
If you think you’ve had enough of Amish books, you’re mistaken. I challenge you to pick up “The Preacher’s Daughter” and see for yourself.

Having Fun with Your Kids in the Summer

2007-07-12T20:09:00.001Z

Are you growing tired of hearing “I’m bored”? There’s plenty for you to do this summer. And remember, the idea is to have fun! Try to do them all and see how far you get!

Have a water balloon fight.
Go for a walk along a wooded path.
Watch the sunset (you’ll have to let them stay up late!).
Participate in the library’s summer reading program.
Go fishing.
Make homemade ice cream in a zip lock bag (google how to)
Make fresh lemonade.
Camp out in a tent in the back yard.
Take pictures of the kids having fun!
Eat watermelon outside and let the juice run all over the place.
Let them make a play tent in the backyard from old bed sheets.
Pick strawberries and make strawberry shortcake.
Pick raspberries and make smoothies.

Meet the Neighbors - Carolyn Wiggins

2007-07-12T20:06:00.000Z

Hello Dear Sisters in the Lord,

My name is Carolyn Wiggins. I am blessed to be the wife to an incredible husband, Ron Wiggins, and to be mother to six precious ones so far ( with another one on the way)-Christian 11, Joshua 9, Gabriel 8, Grace 6, Charity 4, Hope 23 mos., and baby to arrive sometime mid to late Oct. We are committed to homeschooling them and thank the Lord for the opportunity to be used by Him in their lives. I do the majority of the teaching, but Dad also teaches Science, and leads nightly Bible devotions. It is such a blessing to teach all subjects from God's view point, refuting humanism.
Ron and I met in his home town, Decatur, AL, (near to mine) where I had a job at a Quincy's restaurant. He was heading for USAF basic training. When he returned afterwards to visit before leaving for Germany, we exchanged addresses and the rest is history. He won my heart and my family's as well. He is such a joy and encouragement to me. I joined the AF shortly after we married and our first base together was Seymour Johnson, NC. After 4 1/2 years there we PCS moved to Alconbury, England for 4 1/2 yrs. and then 3 1/2 yrs. at Maxwell AFB, AL where Ron spent last year at Kunsan,AFB on remote. The Lord gave Ron and I discernment for me to be at home with our children with our first child, so my time in the AF was quite short as the Lord revealed his vision for me to commit my time to ministering to our family.
I was saved as a young child at 8 yrs. of age. My mother took my 3 siblings and me to a gospel preaching Baptist church. She herself was not saved until later, but was following the example of going to church as she was taught growing up. I responded to the invitation to receive the Lord as my Savior. I remember praying and writing poetry to the Lord as a young child. However, my home life was not a "Godly atmosphere". I was not led by my parents toward salvation, or in any way in my personal walk. Later as a teen I went my own way, but the Lord was always calling me back and showing me scriptures to teach me, but how I needed Godly parents and see such a need for my own children now. Not perfect parents, but parents who desire to live for the Lord. God has worked in their lives over the years, but there is still a lot of work to be done to heal their marriage which I pray for.
Later, when Ron and I married, I knew that I desired to marry a Christian man and one who would go to church with me. He was saved as a result of someone sharing the gospel with him on a bus while traveling to visit a family member as a youth. Praise God for those willing to share the gospel! He also promised me we would be in church. God has faithfully helped us to grow and has always provided for us Godly teaching along the way. I have been especially grateful for the outpouring of concern and love here that I have experienced from you ladies. I may not know all of you well yet, but I feel that I am among friends and sisters who desire to serve the Lord. Ron is scheduled to leave when the baby is due and I don't feel so worried and afraid-although no one can truly take his place in such a situation- I know the Lord will be faithful to provide for us.
Things I enjoy are basically part of my daily life. I enjoy trying to learn to cook better, and I'd like to learn to sew. I like to read books that encourage me in the role God has led me to be in. "Created to be His Helpmeet" by Debi Pearl has greatly influenced my life this past year. "To Train Up a Child" by Michael Pearl has also been a blessing to me. I like having free time to play with my children and spend time with Ron.
This year my family has lost 2 family members and 1 dear friend. One funeral was just prior to our leaving and the others afterwards. Two of which were suicidal deaths, making this the 3rd death of this nature within the past 3 years in my family. Please pray for my family for comfort and healing, salvation for those unsaved and for those saved to stand fast in the Lord. Some of my family members are in bondage to the false teachings of Free Masonry and homosexuality. Please pray about this as well. Please know, Dear Ladies, that I am here for you--regardless of our busy life. God has a purpose for each of us, young and old; we must encourage one another to remain strong as we lean on Him in our daily struggles.

With love,
Carolyn

Meet the Neighbors - Tami Dorner

2007-07-12T20:04:00.000Z

Hello! My name is Tami. I am originally from Jacksonville, Fl. I have been married to my husband Greg for 4 years. We also have a one year old son named Logan. We arrived in England a little over a year ago. We were previously stationed at Moody AFB, GA. Currently, Greg is stationed at RAF Mildenhall where he is a C130 crew chief.
In addition to being a stay at home mom to Logan, I am also a full time student. I plan on becoming a social worker and hope to someday work within the family judicial system. Aside from those responsibilities I also like to go the gym, explore our new surroundings, and swim.
I became a Christian at a young age. My parents were always involved and dedicated Baptists. They laid a strong foundation for my faith. Most of my childhood was spent in the church or church activities; subsequently I was saved and baptized early in my life. Unfortunately, my parent’s marriage didn’t last and sadly neither did their dedication to church and God. As I grew older and realized I had a choice in the matter, my commitment to God, church and my spiritual life fizzled.
Once I became a married adult and especially once I had my son I developed a “new” relationship with Christ. It has certainly been a rocky road, it has taken a lot of time and a lot of backsliding for me to finally trust, listen, and allow God to guide my life. My priority is to teach my son about God, lay the foundation, and hope that someday he too will be saved and reserved a home in Heaven.
I’ve been involved in many ministries throughout my life, choir, VBS, children’s church, etc. Currently, I have recently accepted the responsibility of Hospitality Coordinator within our local MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) organization. I am really excited about using this opportunity to build mine and other mothers’ relationships with Christ.
Over the last year, my husband and I have really been looking for a church family here in England. Since our first visit here at NTBC we have felt so welcome and have already learned so much. I really am convinced this is where God would have me and my family grow. Thank you for being so welcoming, and I look forward to spending the next few years with all of you ladies!
~ Tami Dorner