Reviewing A REFUGE ASSURED by Jocelyn Green

This was my first book by Jocelyn Green that I have reviewed, and found it very interesting.
   The author tells how a ‘real’ French child had been ‘kidnapped’ and she based her current story with that as the background..  It was very interesting following her path for the characters in this story.
   I loved the suspense in the story an the glimmers of romance until the final ending/beginning.  She also has a list of comments at the end to encourage conversations about the characters.
   The book was very interesting .
   I received a copy of this book for review without any restrictions as to my opinion.

I would highly recommend the book especially for ‘history’ lovers.
I submitted reviews on Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble, Christian Book Distributors

Gratefully submitted,
Blogger:  I Believe2
Beverly Kelly

Reviewing THE AWAKENING OF HK DERRYBERRY by Jim Bradford

This will be a SHORT review, because all the favorable words invented apply to this book. It is great.
 
I had a hard time putting it down, and when it says it will change your life forever?  It does.
   Even the part.... where HK says to Alan Jackson, "I'm very famous"
        Or where he tells people "I'm the worlds best blind pilot"....
             Or when Mr. Bradford [as HK teaches us to call him] says, ""wondered if God had...allowed to visualize Earths majestic beauty below and the enormity of the heavens above."

You can't put this book or review down without saying ...
    "I love you too, HK"
             But
     "Sometimes he thinks he's the normal one."


Beverly Kelly
I believe.blogspot

I was given this book for review without any restrictions.  I totally approve of it.







I reviewed this book on Amazon and Barnes and Noble

Reviewing DAUNTLESS by Dina L. Sleman

Reviewing DAUNTLESS by Dina L. Sleman
    This is book one of her series, and it was enjoyable. Looking forward to the other books in the series, even though this is 'complete' in itself.   The cover is fitting for the subject...introducing a female Robin Hood... or, as she calls him in the book, Robyn of the Hoyd.  Enjoyed the prose she uses to tell the tale; it will instantly grab you and put you into the 1216 British time period.
     She makes a beautiful statement in the book, 'if good men will not stand against injustice, then we have no hope.'  The children are delightful, and enjoyed the 'sunshine men' and the miraculous healing in the story.  While the heroin is only 17, I believe all ages will enjoy the story and the time period it involves.  Two heroes  become friends, equally charming, handsome and good but only one gets the girl, which of course will lead to more stories in the series.
   I received this book free from Bethany/Baker publishers for my honest review.

BevK
IBELIEVE2
http://wi-ibelieve.blogspot.com
 

Reviewing SABOTAGED by Dani Pettrey

Reviewing SABOTAGED by Dani Pettrey
  This book will grab you on the first page, and it will be hard to put down...this is #5 in a series, but I had read none of the first 4, and was still caught up immediately in the story. The author does an excellent job of 'making sense' of the characters, and by the end, I wanted to read the first books in the series, yet felt this one book was complete in itself.
   You will love the characters, and throughout the book when Jake has an engagement ring in his pocket but the 'perfect' time hasn't occurred for him to 'take a knee' ... you will be surprised when he does.  LOVE the romance in the story, and the putting together of Reef and Kirra  ... perfect timing.  The mystery, suspense and drama in Alaska is perfect.  It covers many subjects in good taste--rape and coping with the emotions; mole in the ranks, pipeline vs environmentalists and mineral rights powers all woven together.  At one point you will ask yourself if you have any friends, relatives, acquaintances you need to witness to because none of us is guaranteed another 'tomorrow.' 
   My knowledge may be small, but in WI we do call it a snowmobile, but what we have seen of Alaskan equipment, I believe they are called 'snow-machines' there...  but... who cares in such a good story!
   I received this book free from the publishers for a non-biased review. I hope this helps others.  

BevK
IBELIEVE2 

    

Reviewing STEADFAST HEART by Tracie Peterson

Reviewing STEADFAST HEART by Tracie Peterson: This is book one of the Brides of Seattle series.
    This book has a beautiful cover, and quite humorous.  It is written in the 1888 time period, and begins with several "God rest his soul" followed by "amen" -- to give you a feel of the setting and tone of the story.  I also picked out some attitudes that apparently were present then, like "they were women and as such were weak and inconsistent" ... "God Himself knew that men and women did not think alike."  These attitudes are carried through the story as it portrays the social etiquette in that time period. The morality of those days is very refreshing.
    The author uses some words not often heard today i.e. plethora, Mugwump and purgative, and Skid Road vs skid row.
    There is a beautiful witness of how to become a 'real' Christian and live the life Jesus expects us to live.  She makes a  good statement of  'a lot of folks worry about the whys of life rather than the who."  Also when she says 'people pray more around religious holidays'!
    While the author brings in murders, deceptions and mystery, I didn't feel they were tied together or completed by the end of the book.  For me, it was not a page-turner, although it was 'interesting.' I guess I came away from it disappointed; it started out great but lost it at the end by not tying up loose ends.
    I was given this book free to review from Bethany-Baker Publishing, without restriction as to my comments. 

IBELIEVE2
http://wi-ibelieve.blogspot.com 
BevK

   

Reviewing TRIED & TRUE by Mary Connealy

Reviewing TRIED & TRUE by Mary Connealy
   This is Book One of a new series which is called Wild at Heart... and it lives up to the author's humor in previous novels.  It is hard to put down as you follow the three 'sisters' as they attempt to 'pass as men' in the 1860's... What the author says in the beginning sounded very much like someone I know... she is afraid of heights, gets out of work by "not knowing how" or being too slow, and no good at crafts. Hmmm ... but as you follow the characters through the story, you will catch yourself smiling often.  The set-up is good for books to follow in the series, and you'll look forward to them as well.
   I received this book free for review from Bethany-Baker Publishing without any restrictions as to my opinion.  I would highly recommend this book for all ages.

http://wi-ibelieve.blogspot.com

BevK
IBELIEVE2 

Reviewing LIFE ANIMATED by Ron Suskind

Reviewing LIFE ANIMATED by Ron Suskind

    This touching story of a family's struggle to understand what is happening with their young son, Owen, who suddenly stops talking or communicating any way with his brother who is 3 years older than him, and his parents.  Suddenly, nothing.  When the lad was 'normal' in every way.
    This book will hit deeply at your heart.  I was struck by the tremendous struggles, hopelessness of the 'opinions' the parents were receiving, and the cost of them.  But, they didn't quit.  When they have their first break-through with Owen and realize how he was trying to communicate with them, things finally begin to move, but still, I felt people were not encouraging.
   This helped 'me' in trying to relate to people who may appear 'different', when 'inside' we are all alike.  It is refreshing to read how the family used the Disney characters in such a beneficial way, and now their son is a functioning adult.
   We saw an interview with the author on the news and were amazed at what the Lord used to help the parents 'reach' their son.  I highly recommend everyone reading this book; whether you are working with autism or not, you will have your horizons expanded.  You will shed tears too.

BevK
IBELIEVE2

Reviewing ONCE WE WERE BROTHERS by Ronald H. Balson

Reviewing ONCE WE WERE BROTHERS by Ronald H. Balson.
This is the 2013 edition of the book, and it was the title that caught my eye.  Just think of it. "ONCE" ... I just had to read the book, and it so touched my heart and life.  You will be on an emotional journey throughout the book.  Well written, and descriptive. 
     A Jewish family in Poland take in a German boy and raise him as they were raising their own son.  Then Hitler rises up and families are split apart.  Jews are either killed or put in concentration camps, and during all of this, the Jewish lad falls in love, and that theme is carried throughout all the turmoil. The suffering and loss of everything is well described; trust is betrayed, and seemingly, all is lost.
     You will not be disappointed in the end, as things are 'put right' ... I believe you will never forget 'ONCE' ... and you'll agree with the author's outcome.  Oh, and, 'enjoy the dance' as you wipe away the tears.
   I highly recommend this book; the author makes every effort to keep it historically accurate.  Discussion questions are included at the end.  So much of 'history' is left out or changed today, as if it didn't happen; though this is a novel, it is a great book to enlighten people on 'our' history.

BevK
IBELIEVE2

Reviewing WOMAN OF COURAGE by Wanda E. Brunstetter

Reviewing WOMAN OF COURAGE by Wanda E. Brunstetter
   First of all, the cover and print of the book is beautifully done and easy to read. I was glad to see a book about the Quakers!  The author does a good job of inserting 'modern' comments throughout the book, including describing the people as "Bible-thumpers" when this story takes place in the mid 1800's.
    The story of the 'heroine' goes from bad to worse, and the suspense builds as you think of all the dangers surrounding her.  The author does a good job of explaining the custom of selling women by trade or bargaining or cash.  The comments people make blaming God for their troubles are realistic and readers may find themselves in the same attitude in their own lives today.  She weaves in death and rituals of the times and some other detailed descriptions into her stories, and I felt sometimes to the extreme.  She makes use of healing herbs and description of birthing which add interest to the time the story is taking place.
   I particularly liked the hawk in the story, and his trainer; I wished there was more of that included and they fast became my favorite characters.
   I did enjoy the book, and would recommend it.
   I received this book free from Bethany Publishers Barbour Pub. Shiloh Press for review without any restrictions as to my opinion.

BevK  IBELIEVE2

Reviewing THE PURSUIT OF TAMSEN LITTLEJOHN by Lori Benton

Reviewing THE PURSUIT OF TAMSEN LITTLEJOHN by Lori Benton
    This is a book that IS hard to put down!  Loved the story and the way she wove scriptures throughout not only conversations, but descriptions of where the story was taking place. You could almost feel you were there in the time period, which was 1787.  She described the clothing beautifully and you could almost see the situations the characters found themselves in.  It is a sweet, tender, humorous book.  Or, in my opinion at least, like, "say something full of brains and dazzle like, "huh?""
    She covers all the subjects "in good taste" but you still get the "point"; i.e. when Tamsen is rescued in the early stages of the book and to travel together appropriately they 'marry' but situations that follow lead you to know what a struggle 'keeping your word' means, and yet the author handles every situation so that you are really pleased with her characters.  Even though written in the 1700's, the morality is the same, or should be the same, today.
    Some of her interesting 'descriptions' that greatly broadened my knowledge of verse and often brought a smile are:  it was a blink and a sneeze 'till autumn; he hobbled that thought; he stopped, chary of barging in; the scalp-creeping feeling; stick to him like stink on a skunk; be back in a shake; and last but not least, soundless as a landed fish.
   Another thing that I was not familiar with, and my husband who is a 'history buff' did not recall it either, was the reference the author makes to the "State of Franklin".  It was very interesting to learn something the history books/teachers had not taught, or certainly that we did not remember them teaching.  The book is not 'political' but it was a very interesting point that held the trials and troubles of the people captive in those days.
   I highly recommend all ages to read this book.  I received it free to review, from Blogging for Books, Multnomah.  

IBELIEVE2

IBELIEVE  

Reviewing UNINTIMIDATED by Scott Walker

Reviewing UNINTIMIDATED by Scott Walker

I am not writing this review for political reasons, but as an American Patriot. This is a deeply personal, American, touching, book which every American should read and take to heart and action in their lives. I cannot even begin to imagine what America would be like, if each of our 50 wonderful states had a Governor like Scott Walker. Every family should read this book and take it to heart in the teaching and training and raising of their family, and husband/wife and family relationships, work ethics and just plain 'life' in this blessed land we live in. Actually, I can imagine it... America would be like our forefathers intended, and the immigrants who come here, expect it to be. We 'guessed' at the mess that must have been made in the state capitol, Madison, but had no idea just how horrific it actually was. "More damage in 2 weeks than in 5 years" is pitiful. The photos in the book show some of the damage. I truly wish there was a way to send the clean-up bill and restoration to each of the people who demonstrated and did this damage. I loved the way Scott Walker responded to insults and other abuses... he responded like Jesus instructs us to... with love, understanding, wisdom and compassion, but he did not compromise his standards. It is beautiful to see faith lived out. We all need to take to heart what our actions are teaching those who will follow; our family members, friends, people who are brought through our lives. It is touching to hear how he was raised, and what was instilled in his life from his Grandmother and parents etc. We all, of every age, need to take this to heart and get our own lives lined up where they should be. Power and money is not the goal in America; love, compassion, wisdom and a real life that we must answer for, is. If along the way money and/or power occur, we must be responsible for it, but it is not the goal. I challenge you to read this book with an open heart, and allow your heart/life to be touched and moved and changed where needed; and then pray... America needs this man and his mission not only as Governor, but in the Presidency as well. Above all, pray. IBELIEVE

Reviewing UNSTOPPABLE by Nick Vujicic

Reviewing UNSTOPPABLE by Nick Vujicic This is the second book I have read by this young man, and it is heart-stirring and remarkable as was the first one. There is a set of photos in it, ending with a beautiful pix of he and his wife. One of the insightful messages he gives is about humility. He tells that when he was younger he did not like to ask anyone for help, and then relates how he was able to overcome this, letting the reader know it is something we all can struggle with. He says he once heard a father tell his son, a recent college graduate how to approach his new job: "Don't try to show them what you know, instead, show them how much you want to learn." That is advice for us all. I am sure many will pick this book up who are struggling with the issues of 'life' and 'love'. Nick has great advice on that as well. One of the many things he says is that God didn't want him to discover his true love until he was mature enough to appreciate and nurture it. Just think, if everyone did that, how much heartache and disappointment would be avoided! The book is full of helps for those being bullied or who are bullies. I liked his statement that he is 'armless, not harmless' ... and I was appalled how some of the youth bullied him. Parents, counselors, teachers, monitors all need to be more aware of what is going on with our youth. Where has morality, kindness, courtesy and respect gone? We need to all step up and be aware and do something. There is also a lot of mention of suicide with tips on spotting those in danger of committing it, as well as helps for those who are cutting or leaning in that direction. Nick has a great sense of humor, and he will keep you smiling as you wipe away the tears. His comments about marriage and commitment will do that; he says that when you commit to a loving relationship with someone, you surrender many things... selfishness, self-centered behavior... and the remote for the TV. Here are some clips for the book: Excerpt: Chapter 3-How Nick met his wife Life Without Limbs Website Trailer Facebook Twitter More Info Read Chapter One Author Bio I received this book from Blogging for Books for review, and highly recommend this book to everyone. IBELIEVE2 BEVK

Reviewing A PROMISE KEPT by Robin Lee Hatcher

Reviewing A PROMISE KEPT by Robin Lee Hatcher The writing style of the book is without chapters, but in keeping with the story, more like a diary of two lives; subjects covered include alcoholism, divorce, abuse, tough love, infidelity, with a cover that is right on target with the story. Beautiful. I would recommend this book to people whose marriages are experiencing any of the above because of the issues dealt with. Some of the good statements contained in the book include "A faith that can't be tested can't be trusted:" Times change but 'people' don't; God hates divorce. He doesn't hate the divorced; Easier is not necessarily better; Why does time fly by when you are happy and creep along when in sorrow? How can I pray 'thy will be done' if I know it includes going through the fire and I don't want to? If you stop moving forward, you move backward...like facing the wrong way on a conveyor belt. The television tells us we are worthy of whatever will make us beautiful or rich, smart, happy, and we want it, but..." Freedom in Christ is the only kind worth anything. The author covers these difficult subjects scripturally and interestingly. She brings up situations that make you think, what would you do, or how would you react, ie, if your younger sister were the 'beautiful and popular' one and people flocked to her or used you to get to her; the question is asked, Can you be a Christian and a drunk at the same time; should you force the issue and find out if there is infidelity; we are who we are because of and in spite of... The author weaves appropriate scriptures throughout the story to support or define things that are happening. In many instances she compares teachings many grew up with that often are no longer taught, ie, courtesy, respect, dress, homemaking vs career. She tells us that Jesus invites us to be yoked with Him as we walk through the fire of life together. The book has a Reading Group Guide in the back so it can be used for discussion in group settings. I would recommend this book. I received this book free from HarperCollins Christian Publishing CTB Thomas Nelson for review without any restrictions as to my comments. ibelieve2

Reviewing CRITICAL REACTION by Todd M. Johnson

Reviewing CRITICAL REACTION by Todd M. Johnson What an exciting, nerve biting, on the edge of your seat novel! It is so in tune with what we are seeing on/in our daily news that you will often think, "I pray this isn't really happening!" I loved every word, corner it turned, and suspense as well as the applicable Christian witness. The motto it proclaimed is one we all should teach and live: don't let others make you do something you will later regret. Be responsible. I loved the character, Poppy. The cover is beautiful, but I must confess I had to ask my husband what the "mark" on the back cover represents. So, without ruining the story for you, I will tell those readers who may be like myself, that it is a 'radiation' symbol. Very fitting. If there is a sequel with these characters, I hope to find out who "Knight" and "Laura" are... but if I somehow missed it, and a reader knows, please enlighten me! I would highly recommend this book to all; it is great; hard to put down. I received this book free from Bethany/Baker Publishers for review without regard to what my opinion would be. BevK IBELIEVE2

Reviewing HEART FAILURE by Richard L. Mabry, M.D.

Reviewing HEART FAILURE by Richard L. Mabry M.D. I had never read a Mabry book before, and so I did not know what to expect with a physician writing a mystery. Well, he kept me interested and trying to figure out the end...remember, no peeking! Being he is so qualified in writing this type of medical story, I was wondering how many look for symptoms of their own as they read his books, and solutions to their own medical problems! The mystery of the book was captivating, and I really liked her fiance but in a mystery, you never know how it will end. Dr. Mabry did it right..... this is a book to enjoy! I was given a copy of this book by BOOK SNEEZE to read and review with my own opinion. I would recommend it to others to read; I shall be reading more of his books as well. IBELIEVE2 Bev K

Reviewing A BRIDE FOR KEEPS by Melissa Jagears

Reviewing A BRIDE FOR KEEPS by Melissa Jagears This was a delightful, interesting and well written story set in the days when "mail-order brides" were popular. It lives up to its name. Both have secrets and it is interesting how the author wove them around throughout the story. Among the many interesting things was an account of how to keep a raw egg for a year without it spoiling! It was simply amazing and insightful. I would guess with all our modern appliances etc, no one today would even think about that! The reader will be touched by the husband's first prayer for his new bride and her thoughts upon hearing it. Then he later explains to her what prayer is, and about God's love. She is stunned when he apologizes, and the story just gets better and better as he determines to 'woo' her... a term we don't often hear any more either. A word of wisdom is given him that change hurts, but if the person is worth marrying, then they are worth the pain. Good advice and counsel! The story is complete with the plan of salvation and an epilogue you don't want to peek at. Enjoy... This book was given to me for review by Bethany/Baker Publishers without any restrictions. IBELIEVE2 BEV K

Reviewing The Spiritual World of the HOBBIT by James Stuart Bell

Reviewing The Spiritual World of the HOBBIT by James Stuart Bell I have to admit first-off that I have not read The Hobbit nor seen any of the movies however, after reading this book cover to cover, I intend to. I was touched emotionally and spiritually by Mr. Bell's 'take' on it and still felt he did not 'give away' anything so that I still wanted to read JRR Tolkien's book. Though I'm sure most people heard of Bilbo Baggins, dwarves and elves, many like myself, did not know the key issues that James Stuart Bell brings out in his book. He carefully tells that in writing a fairy tale which most of us grow up with, the key was to get the reader to believe it is true and not a 'fairy tale'...letting the reader experience the magic of the story. Some of the characters reviewed in this book are Bilbo Baggins, Gandolf, Tuor, Idril, Elrond, Half-Elven, Thorin, Frodo, Smaug, Bard and others. Tolkien's stories reflect values and truths of the Bible and how we grow in grace to accomplish great things for the Lord, often working through our weakness rather than strength. I loved the oxymorons that Mr. Bell points out dealing with scripture; he begins with the natural [jumbo shrimp] and concludes with good out of evil. Mr. Bell's ability to point out scripture references in all instances of the Hobbit experiences will bring tears to your eyes. Other examples of issues brought out in this book: We overcome our fears and begin to act then start to become what we were created to be; but our new found courage does not eliminate fear but changes how we react to it; many scriptural instances listed about fire and eagles in the Bible; the removal of one person to let another become greater; good vs evil, growth through suffering and trials; even with all his changes, he [Bilbo] remains thoughtful and kind and not full of pride. Mr. Bell has a good article about what we call 'luck' that should be taken into account. Also he tells about Tolkien being in WWI and experienced in 'waiting' so he had it '1st hand' in writing about it in the life of Bilbo. The stories are about hobbits, elves, trolls, dwarves, dragons, wizards, goblins and all the fun things children/people with an imagination love to hear about. The key thought I came away with was that evil benefits when good becomes divided; Mr. Bell quotes scripture after scripture that we all know, showing that we as Christians need to be united and working together. I received this book free from BethanyHouse/Baker Publishers for review without any restrictions as to my opinion. IBELIEVE2

Reviewing MADE TO LAST by Melissa Tagg

Reviewing MADE TO LAST by Melissa Tagg Here is a story where the heroine is surrounded by 3 men; all equally handsome; one an ex-fiance, one her fake husband, and then the newcomer to the group all invited to live on her property. This is a very unique and interesting story that you learn a lot about the ins and outs of journalism as well as Tv/movie production. It answered a lot of questions as to why some of our favorite TV shows aren't renewed, and contained a lot of information about the struggles a journalist has to put up with without compromising one's standards. I loved some of the 'sayings' the author put into the story like 'trying to be superman and all I ever wanted was Clark Kent; Friendship and sugar---best therapy there is; best way to make God laugh is to tell Him your plans; there's nothing so deep God can't pull you out. All fit well into the story. Sometimes I felt it was overdone when mentioning television and movie titles; actors and actresses. I also did not care for the 'paint fight' because of the age of the participants; but overall, I did enjoy the story and the information it contained. I had to test it myself several times to make sure I read it right, but I think the editor/author missed the correct position for the man's hands in dancing... but the 'scene' was lovely! Also later in the story when Miranda is about to spill the beans on which of the 3 is her 'true love', the editor missed 'before his name could escape from "his" lips... "his" should be 'her'... but the reader can figure it out! I would definitely like to read a sequel if it is about "Blaze"... I received this book free from Bethany/Baker Publishers for review without any restrictions as to my opinion. BevK IBELIEVE2

Reviewing FIRED UP by Mary Connealy

Reviewing FIRED UP by Mary Connealy...this is Book 2 in the new series "Trouble in TX' and it is a good, humorous page-turner, following on the footsteps of SWEPT AWAY. Included in the story is a vivid description of how measles used to devastate so many families years ago, and how thankful we all should be for the inoculations that stopped it. Many today do not know how tragic it was, but I for one, remember what it was like. I'm thankful our children did not have to go through it. The story moves into a hilarious picture of a diner helping out a local physician ... because the cook doesn't know how to cook, but since she is feminine, the men keep eating there ... and the circle goes round and round. You wonder where the author is going to take you, then in the next paragraph you go from laughing to the book title coming to life, and the suspense and excitement, laughter and love continues until the end. The author clears up a big misunderstanding many people have about 'forgiveness'. She states there is a 'difference between forgiving and trusting.' So many people don't/won't forgive someone because they think that in so doing, they have to accept and trust the offender, but Ms Connealy states it correctly. The 'forgiveness' is mainly for you, the forgiver. You are the one set free. I look forward to Book #3 in this series... FIRED UP was provided to me free from Bethany/Baker Publishers for review without restrictions as to my opinion. BevK IBELIEVE2

Reviewing RULES OF MURDER by Julianna Deering

Reviewing RULES OF MURDER by Julianna Deering If you love a mystery, you'll love this book! Plus the great bantering between the main characters will keep a smile on your face. The author does a beautiful job describing the colonial dress, furniture and time-period she is writing about, and you can 'hear' the English/Brit accent. I like a book that makes you 'think' and in this one when the main character discovers a secret about himself, it made me ask of myself, how would "I" feel, and what would "I" do? Without giving away the story plot, the secret is that he is the result of an affair his father had, and the woman who raised him, is not his mother. In the midst of murders, the mystery begins! The author does a great job also if inserting touching scenes with kittens that continue to the end of the book, and add insights into the characters' thoughts and feelings. I received a free copy of this book from BethanyHouse Publishers to give a review without any expectations as to it being favorable. It is. BevK IBELIEVE2