The Talk

As the mom to a young teenager, I appreciate this book SO MUCH. I know the awkwardness of having to sit your child down for "the talk" and have often struggled and stumbled through it on different levels! Having the tools that Jonathan McKee provided made that situation so much easier! Also His book addressed topics that I didn't even think about discussing with my child, (topics that should be brought up, but just never occurred to me!).
As my child grows older and our "talks" grow to new topics, I believe this will be my go to book on how to address, and what to address, during these times.
I appreciate this book a lot, and while it was at times an uncomfortable read (along with uncomfortable talks, lol) it is an important topic that parents seem to just avoid quite often. I feel better having these tools at my disposal, and for knowing that my child will be well informed and prepared for adulthood is a huge relief.
If you are a parent of any child who has hit or has yet to hit the teenage years I'd highly recommend this book!

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

Dauntless

I loved this book, any book that sets out to have their main female character portrayed as a strong female right away earns my attention! And this book did more than just that, I found myself engrossed in the story right from beginning to end, it was very hard to put down (I finished it in two sittings, with two very late nights, lol).
Lady Merry Ellison is running from the monarch of her area in an attempt to preserve her life, along with a group of orphans from her village. Together they form their own small group that depends upon thievery as a way to survive.
One thing I immediately appreciated about this book was that every character within the book was portrayed as having value to their group, and every member was taken care of to the best of everyones abilities. I think its such a great message in this book that they value everyone so much! Aside from that, the book is fast paced and full of action, there are plenty of twists to keep our attention, plus the faith of those in the books is clearly made known. The book gives a great message and provides a really enjoyable read!!
I highly recommend "Dauntless" for any kind of reader, the story covers so many genre's that its bound to fit into one you'll enjoy!

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

Anna's Crossing

This is the kind of book that is straight up my alley! One of my favorite genres is Amish, and I love anything that give a historical context to the story. So this one filled every check on my list for a great book! (Plus I've read a great deal of Suzanne Woods Fisher's books, and adore them!)
With this book we meet Anna, who is crossing the ocean with many others from her small Amish congregation that are seeking to avoid persecution and instead find a peaceful place to practice their faith. Anna isn't keen to leave, but being the only one who can speak english in her group she is compelled to travel with the others to offer her help. While she's there she meets Bairn, a young man who works for the ship she is travelling on and who takes a sudden interest (and kindness) towards Anna and her group.
All in all, this story was fantastic, it was a relaxing and pleasant read, it kept my attention till the very end of the book and is one I plan on reading many times before passing it on!
I would highly recommend it!!

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

You're loved no matter what

I love books like these, there seems to be so much in the "church/religious culture" that focuses solely on what is wrong in everyone's life, or in our churches, or in our world. I love that it is becoming so much more frequent to see books such as "You're Loved no matter what" coming out. I love the positive message of the Gospel and appreciate when people reach out with love instead of condemnation.
I really enjoyed reading this, it was an easy yet insightful read that challenged me while still allowing the reader to understand easily what the message was. I truly appreciate the message of Holley Gerth in this book, that perfection isn't attainable, and that grace is constantly available. I found myself very encouraged and free'd in a way from the expectations of others and myself have placed upon me. I very eagerly recommend this book to any woman looking for encouragement!!


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