The Long Way Home, The Homelanders Book Two by Andrew Klavan

The Long Way Home

 The Homelanders Book Two

Written by Andrew Klavan

Published by Thomas Nelson Publishers

 ISBN:  978-1-59554-713-2

I am a proud reviewer for the newly titled BookSneeze.com.  Thomas Nelson Publishers has graciously provided me with a complimentary copy of this book to review.

Book Two begins where Book One (The Last Thing I Remember) ends.  Charlie West is a typical eighteen year old who loves God, his friends, his family,  karate, and is interested in a girl named Beth.  He has awakened to discover that not only has he lost an entire year of his life, he is a convicted killer (of his best friend), a prison escapee, and has escaped terrorists who want him dead.  In Book One, Charlie grapples with who he is and what has he done, or not done.  Book Two helps the reader with more pieces of the puzzle.  Both Charlie and the reader get answers, and more questions.

It begins with a struggle with a vicious assassin in a public library, and a subsequent escape from a group of thugs.  Charlie then escapes an exciting police chase and forms a plan to return to his hometown for answers.  He forms a plan to hide out in an abandoned house thought to be haunted.  It is here where his friends come to his aid.  They want to help him learn the truth, who really killed his friend Alex.  I enjoyed the dialogue between Charlie, Josh, Rick, Miler, and Beth.  They supply him with what he needs to survive as well as gift him with their loyalty and support.  Charlie also discovers that he and Beth were involved romantically and have a strong romantic connection.  Little by little, pieces of the puzzle are revealed in this book.  His friends help him to fill in the blanks in his memory.  They also do a little investigating for him and try to keep him safe.  I enjoyed the chapter with Josh's investigation, but I won't reveal anything more! :)

In his quest for the truth, Charlie encounters his mentor and karate instructor, Sensei Mike.  He had learned that Alex was supposed to have met up with Mike the evening he was murdered.  He wanted answers, and wasn't sure if he could trust his sensei.  After an action-packed scene, he has his answer, and much more.

By the end of the book Charlie has still not regained his memory, but he has a stronger sense of who he is and who his true friends are.  He also has more pieces of the puzzle.  But, like the ending of Book One, Book Two ends with a struggle, and Charlie once more on the run.  I look forward to reading Book Three, The Truth of the Matter, due for release in November 2010.

I bought the first book, The Last Thing I Remember, not realizing that it was categorized under Juvenile Fiction.  My teenage daughter surprised me by reading it in one afternoon.  She is not usually a reader, much less a fast reader.  She cannot wait to read Book Two.  Okay, Paige, your wait is over.

http://www.thomasnelson.com/consumer/product_detail.asp?sku=1595547134&title=The_Homelanders_#2__:_The_Long_Way_Home

http://www.christianbook.com/long-way-home-homelanders/andrew-klavan/9781595547132/pd/547132?item_code=WW&netp_id=638996&event=ESRCN&view=details

Who Do I Talk To? by Neta Jackson

who do i talk to?  a Yada Yada House of Hope Novel

Book 2

written by Neta Jackson

published by Thomas Nelson Publishers

ISBN:  978-1-59544-524-4

http://www.christianbook.com/do-talk-yada-house-hope/neta-jackson/9781595545244/pd/545244?item_code=WW&netp_id=607719&event=ESRCN&view=details

Pure pleasure.  I read this book for ME!  I borrowed the book from the library.  I have read all the YadaYada books, and just love the characters.  They feel like old friends.  I was not going to review this, but since I am still thinking about the book several days after I finished reading it, how could I not review it?

The book begins where the first books ends. (of course)  Gabby Fairbanks returns to the Chicago penthouse she shares with a husband, two sons, her elderly mother, and her mother's dog to find the locks have changed, and her belongings are packed and waiting for her in the lobby.  Her husband, Phillip, has cruely kicked her out, cancelled all her credit cards, and taken her sons out of state.  Gabby, her mother, and  Dandy the dog become residents of Manna House, the womans' homeless shelter where Gabby is employed. 

I don't want to go through all the events and adventures in the book, as I wouldn't want to spoil it for anyone.  If you loved the Yada Yada series, you will LOVE this book!  So wonderful to get to know Gabby and watch her grow and mature.  It seems a no-brainer that when troubles come, who else do we talk to, but the Lord?  But I appreciate how Neta carefully and gently drew Gabby toward God as the one to turn to when there seems to be no one else.  It was delightful to watch her relationships with others, both believers and non-believers, develop.  I laughed and cried with Gabby through this novel.  It was also great to catch up with some of the Yada Yada characters, and get to know the new characters. I can't wait to read the next novel in the series, Who Do I Lean On?!

Finding Purpose Beyond our Pain by Paul Meier, MD and David Henderson, MD

Finding Purpose Beyond Our Pain -

Uncover the hidden potential in life's most common struggles

Written by Paul Meier, MD and David L. Henderson, MD

Published by Thomas Nelson Publishers

ISBN:  978-0-7852-2922-3

http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?item_no=229220&item_code=WW&netp_id=613953&event=ESRCN&view=details

In compliance with new FTC regulations, I am disclosing that I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers. I am a proud and grateful member of the Thomas Nelson Book Review Bloggers.

http://www.brb.thomasnelson.com/

When I requested to review this book from the Thomas Nelson Book Review Bloggers website, I thought this would be an easy review.  I thought of myself as mostly recovered from the pain my life experiences had caused.  My oldest daughter was in a rehabilitation hospital after almost losing her life in a motorcycle accident that claimed the life of her boyfriend.  She lost her left leg and was burned over forty percent of her body.  But hey, she survived.  No problem, I can review this book!

I then went through yet another series of events that effectively knocked me in the pit.  I could not see my way out, period.  I did not understand why I was going through these things after I had already been through so much!  I was angry with God.  Why?  Yet in all of this, I begged God to give me perspective.  In fact, I believe that short prayer is on this blogsite. 

I then received this book in the mail. 

I didn't see it at first, but in going through the book, reading a few chapters here and there, I began to see God working through my pain and grief.  I read through the practical application points at the end of the sections that I felt related to my experiences.  I then took time to journal the my answers to the questions also located at the end of the section, building a foundation of the truth found in God's Word concerning my situation. 

I was gaining perspective.  My emotional wounds were beginning to heal.  I rejoiced in the smallest of victories and realized that God is indeed our refuge and strength, a very present help in times of trouble.  I know, that is in the Psalms.  Right now I just cannot remember the exact chapter and verse!

I don't normally conduct my book reviews this way.  I also USUALLY stick to my passion:  Christian Fiction.  Anything else is...well....work.  (HA)

At this point I will attempt to be a bit more professional.  Drs Meier and Henderson divided the book into seven sections.  Each section expounds on one of the seven most common life challenges as identified by Drs Meier and Henderson.  They are:

1) Injustice

2) Rejection

3) Loneliness

4) Loss

5) Discipline

6) Failure

7) Death

As I said before, at the end of each section there are a few pages that contain practical application points to consider, as well as questions to apply what you have just learned to your own situation.

I also enjoyed the stories in each chapter.  While the doctors point the reader back to God's truth, they are never preachy or condescending.

I believe this book should be on the shelves of every pastor and Christian counselor.  I was not expecting this book to have such an impact on my own life. 

I apologize again for the lack of professionalism.  While I deliberately left out the details of my situation (other than my daughter) I wanted to explain the personal impact this book had on my situation. 

The Power of One Thing by Randy Carlson

The Power of One Thing -  How to Intentionally Change Your Life

written by Dr. Randy Carlson

Published by Tyndale House Publishers

ISBN:  978-0-8423-8222-9

http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?item_no=382229&item_code=WW&netp_id=627248&event=ESRCN&view=details

In compliance with new FTC regulations, I am disclosing that I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers.

January 3rd is an accidental, but ideal time to review this book.  It is so easy to become overwhelmed by our New Year's resolutions.  Where do we start?  That is where The Power of One Thing comes in!

Information + Insight + Action = Intentional Living

Information represents the facts of your situation.  Insight comes after prayerfully thinking through the problem.  Action is the "one thing" to commit to do to improve the situation.  This is a neat formula to tackle any problem.  Reminds me of the saying "How does a mice eat an elephant?  One bite at a time."

The Power of One Thing is in two parts:

Part One:  You Are Only "One Thing"  Away from a Better Life

Part Two:  It's Time to Start - Change Your Life One Thing at a Time

Part One focuses on gathering the information and identifying the steps needed to bring about change.  More precisely, that "one thing" you can begin to do or stop doing to bring about the change you desire.  The first "insight"  I gained was what it means to live intentionally.  Next was the confirmation that it IS important to know yourself, how you are wired as well as your strengths and weaknesses.  What pushes your buttons?  What motivates you?  It is equally important to get to know the important people in your life.  Do you know their thoughts, dreams, strengths, weaknesses?  What motivates the ones you love?   Last but never least is to know God, and understand His plans for your life.  You can do this by spending time in His presence, and getting to know Him through His Word.  (my interpretation)

Part Two is the "action" section.  In each chapter, Dr. Carlson presents nine roadblocks to living an intentional life: your thinking, your attitude, your emotions, your words, the use of your time, your friends, your clutter, the questions you ask and the decisions you make.  Each chapter gives practical advice and applications to implement the "one thing" you can do to begin change in your life. 

There is also a Discussion Guide available online http://www.tyndale.com/resources/details.asp?isbn=978-0-8423-8222-9 .  I found the Discussion Guide a valuable tool, and look forward to further study.

I would recommend this book to anyone desiring a life change, but not sure where to start.

The Unfinished Gift by Dan Walsh

The Unfinished Gift

written by Dan Walsh

Published by Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group

ISBN:  9780800719241

http://www.revellbooks.com/ME2/Audiences/dirmod.asp?sid=0477683E4046471488BD7BAC8DCFB004&nm=&type=PubCom&mod=PubComProductCatalog&mid=BF1316AF9E334B7BA1C33CB61CF48A4E&tier=3&id=225E28E53CC94FB9A8DEB69592618AD5

http://www.christianbook.com/unfinished-gift-dan-walsh/9780800719241/pd/719241?item_code=WW&netp_id=625966&event=ESRCN&view=details

I just finished reading the book, The Unfinished Gift, by Dan Walsh.  I am reviewing this book on my own.  I borrowed this book from our local library. 

The story begins a week before Christmas in 1943.  Seven year-old Patrick Collins has just lost his mother in an automobile accident.  His father, Shawn, is a fighter pilot, serving his country in the war overseas.  Patrick is brought to stay with his grandfather, Ian Collins, until his father is notified and returns from Europe. Katherine Townsend is the social worker assigned to Patrick's case.  Although she is trained to be objective, she finds her heart warming to the young Patrick.  Patrick has never met his grandfather due to a falling out between Shawn and Ian Collins years before Patrick's birth.  Ian is bitter and blames Patrick's mother for coming between father and son.  He sees Patrick as an inconvenience, and is cold and unfeeling toward him.  Ian is a widower, and made a deathbed promise to her that he would reconcile with their son.  However, he is stubborn, and has become comfortably numb in his bitter state.

While searching for Christmas decorations in the attic, Patrick finds an unfinished, yet beautifully carved wooden soldier.  He is scolded by his grandfather and warned the object is off limits to him.  The wooden soldier becomes a desire of little Patrick's heart, right next to seeing his father again and leaving his grandfather's cold and unloving home.  Patrick does find comfort and nurturing from the next door neighbor, Mrs. Fortini, and his caseworker, Miss Townsend.  Katherine knows she is risking her job by getting emotionally involved, but she is willing to risk it for this little boy who has captured her heart.

Then, terrible news from overseas rattles both Katherine and Ian.  Ian, in a quest to know his son, reads Shawn's letters to his wife.  He learns that all was not as he had always thought, and is confronted with his own stubbornness.  His heart begins to thaw, and he wants to make things right with his grandson. 

He then learns that Patrick has run away from his home, right in the middle of a blizzard.  Desperate to find him, he offers a substantial reward.  Katherine, who has come to the Collins' home to check on Patrick's welfare, bands together with Ian and Mrs. Fortini in an effort to bring Patrick safely home. 

I don't think I should share any more details, except to say that the remainder of the story is beautifully written, and touched my heart. I don't want to be a "plot spoiler", even if I am not sure exactly what that means!  :)  I felt the book was wrapped up well, and enjoyed the addition and portrayal of Ezra Jeffries and his family.  I would love to see how they prospered after these events.  I also felt that this story is not over.  I would love to see more of Katherine Townsend's story, and to see her find happiness.  This is going to be one of my new Christmas favorites!  Be sure to have tissues nearby.  You WILL need them! 

Review of Gone to Green

Title:  Gone to Green
Author:  Judy Christie
Published by Abingdon Press
ISBN:  978-1-4267-0024-8

http://www.christianbook.com/gone-green-judy-christie/9781426700248/pd/700248?item_code=WW&netp_id=621010&event=ESRCN&view=details

http://abingdonpress.com/forms/fiction.aspx?pid=3561


I am reviewing this book on my own.  I borrowed a copy of this book from my local library. I am reviewing this for my own benefit.
First, I want to say that I really enjoyed this book.  I thought the author did a wonderful job!  The characters were well-developed, and the storyline fascinating.

Lois Barker is an aspiring reporter for a large midwestern paper.  She is preparing for a promotion when she learns she has inherited ownership of a small town paper in Green, Louisiana.  Her beloved friend and former co-worker, Ed, has passed away and left her with his dream.  She decides to accept the challenge and moves to Green to take ownership.  The stipulation is that she has to stay a year before she can sell. 

She finds that living in a small town is rarely dull, and the people of this small town are multi-faceted.  Some good, some not so good.  She is dismayed to learn that prejudice and discrimination still exist, and works through relationships she has developed to try to break through the racism, and help make Green a better place to live.  As the reader, I began to fall in love with these people, and found myself mentally chastising Lois when she decides to sell the paper at the one-year mark. 

I know I am not doing this story justice!  I cannot wait to read more of both Lois and the people of Green, Louisiana.

Thirsty

Book Title:  Thirsty
Author:  Tracey Bateman
Published by Waterbrook Press
ISBN:  978-0-307-45715-8





First of all, I am reviewing this book on my own.  I have not received payment to review this book, nor have I received a free copy to review.  I borrowed this book from our local library.

Thirsty grabbed me by the throat from the beginning chapter.  (Pardon the pun!)  I would have passed on reading this book, since it has a vampiric theme, but I have enjoyed Tracey Bateman's other works, and trusted I would not be disappointed.  And I am not. 

Thirsty tells the story of Nina Hunter, a recovering alcoholic who moves back to her hometown after running away seventeen years earlier.  Due to years of living in the throes of alcoholism, she is left to start over without her marriage, custody of her children, and her veterinary practice.  She returns to Abbey Hill, Missouri to wait tables at the local cafe and live with her sister, Jill, the local sheriff after a stint in rehab.  Nina brings her angry and conflicted teenage daughter, Meg, with her to spend a week with her, hoping for reconciliation.  Upon their arrival, they learn of a murder that is similar to a rash of ritualistic killings of animals in the area.  The small town is left to wonder what is really going on...are these killings the work of satanists, witches, or...some other supernatural beings?

I appreciated the fluctuation between explaining Nina's childhood, right up to her leaving town, the present, Hunt's point of view, Meg's point of view, and lastly, Jill's mysterious and handsome neighbor, Marcus.  Who and/or what is he?  I found the story line fascinating!  Having experience dealing with and loving someone with an addictive personality, this book gave me a new understanding of what my loved one experiences.  I loved the way the author, Tracey, paralleled alcohol addiction with a vampire's bloodlust.  Interesting.

There were many twists and turns to this plot that I will not address due to my current fatigue,  but are well done. 

I WILL recommend Thirsty to anyone who asks.  Well done.  Not many books keep me awake all night!  I think a nap is in order this morning!!!!