“THE BEST WE’VE BEEN” BY BETH K. VOGT … AND A GIVEAWAY!

Beth's publisher has agreed to give away a print copy of The Best We've Been. (US ONLY) You can enter by using the Rafflecopter link at the end of my blog post. (Giveaway ends June 30, 2020.)

Click here.

"King's Shadow" by Angela Hunt

My review...

I've only read a few books by Hunt, but I've enjoyed them, and this was no exception. I haven't read the others in this series, and I wasn't lost, as this can be read as a standalone.

This story was told from two POVs, Salome (the sister of King Herod) and Zara (a child who becomes Salome's handmaid), and I really liked that, as it gives a more complete picture of the time period and Herod's reign. I liked the addition of Roman characters, such as Cleopatra and Marc Antony, and their connection to Herod. I enjoyed the growth of the characters, particularly Zara.

I'm likely to go back and read the other books in this series, as I'm not as familiar about some of the biblical characters represented, and I'd be interested in reading Hunt's take on them. Scenes were beautifully detailed, which made them easy to envision. Based on this particular book, it's obvious that Hunt is able to bring the characters to life, making for an engaging and informative story. It's apparent the author did a lot of research on the 400 years between the Old Testament and New Testament, weaving facts and fiction together to create this series. I appreciated the insight given in the author's notes at the end.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.

Amazon purchase link

"Here, Now" by Kate Merrick

My review...

I’ve never read anything by Merrick before, but I thought this one sounded interesting. I found Merrick’s writing to be relatable, with real-life examples that will resonate with many readers. This book may cause the reader to reflect on their daily life and determine where they need to disconnect in order to engage more fully in other areas. A key reminder is to focus on the moment versus worrying about missing out on something. The author talks frequently in the book about her belief that readers should get rid of social media, as it pulls us in so many directions instead of giving us peace. This concept could be of interest to some readers, but it may not sit as well with others in today’s society, where so many feel the need to be connected all the time (though that’s exactly why some concepts in this book are important). At times, it felt like the author got a bit off-topic before coming back around, making some parts feel like filler information to reach a certain word count. I do think there are some important takeaways in this book, but I was a bit surprised that it didn’t include any reflection questions or journal prompts.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from BookLook Bloggers, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

Click here to read the first chapter and see the book trailer.

Amazon purchase link

About the author...

Kate Merrick writes, speaks, and helps plant churches. Although she turned away from social media at one time, you can now find out more and follow her blog at http://kmerrick.com/.

"She Dreams" by Tiffany Bluhm (Read with Audra blog tour) ... and a GIVEAWAY!

Say yes to the dreams God has planted in your heart.

Every woman was born to dream--to live a life of beauty, passion, adventure, and purpose. No matter how big or how small they are, our dreams push us to become women of courage, grace, and grit. God in His goodness breathes new dreams within our hearts and revives the dreams that have died, inviting us to trust Him as we dream impossible dreams that only He can bring to pass—because God not only gives dreams; He fulfills them.

In this six-we study we will look at Moses' journey to live out the God-sized dream given to him, exposing the ancient wisdom and truth God offers for every woman with a dream beating in her heart. With timely truth and encouraging accounts of God's heart and hand in the life of Moses as well is in the lives of ordinary women, author Tiffany Bluhm will dare you to dream the impossible dreams the Lord is stirring in your heart, reclaim and broken dreams, and trust God for the victory. Throughout the study will identify:

• The role of prayer as you grow into your dreams.
• The importance of obedience as you pursue what God has for you.
• Why your dreams are a blessing not only to you but also to others.
• How your failures can be a gift that help your dreams become a reality.
• The life-changing love, power, and wisdom of the Dream Giver.

Get ready to discover the role you are designed and destined to play as you partner with God for the impossible!

In addition to the book, there is a a Bible study guide with leader helps and DVD available.

Links to purchase

Read Chapter 1 for free

My review...

If you’re looking for a dose of inspiration to follow your dreams, then this book is for you!

Bluhm shares her personal stories, including her dreams and fears, and mixes in some Scripture verses and biblical stories to illustrate her points. In doing so, the author has made this book quite relatable to most, if not all, women, as so many put their dreams aside to take on other roles and help those around them reach their goals. Bluhm reminds the reader not to give up on their God-given dreams but to keep the faith and press forward. An associated study guide and DVD are also available.

Some of my favorite quotes are:

·        “Our messy moments aren’t the defining line of our story. They are merely twists in the narrative.”

·        “As we dream God-sized dreams, let’s refuse to be boxed in by labels or cultural norms that do not encourage us to be who God created us to be.”

·        “Knowing your why is critical to the life of your dreams, because without it you may be tempted to give up or give in when the going gets tough.”

·        “…trust that the Lord is still at work in the midst of the changes. Because He is.”

·        “As we pursue our God-sized dreams, it is imperative that we fight the urge to compare our beginning or middle with someone else’s later chapter in the story.”

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy as part of the Read with Audra blogger program, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

Amazon purchase link

About Tiffany...

Tiffany Bluhm, author of the She Dreams hey book and Bible study, is a speaker and writer who is passionate about helping women come to know their value and purpose because of a loving, redeeming God. In the style that speaks to women right where they are, she shares insights from a life spent chasing after Jesus while walking alongside women from suburbia to the inner-city, jails and brothels, and the slums of Kolkata. She speaks regularly at conferences and events and writes for a number of websites, print publications, and popular blogs, including the YouVersion Bible app, Deeply Rooted Magazine, and ScaryMommy.com. She lives in Tacoma, Washington, with her husband and two sons and blogs at TiffanyBluhm.com.

Learn more at www.SheDreamsBook.com

Where you can find her on social media...

Facebook (@TiffanyABluhm)

Twitter (@TiffanyABluhm)

  a Rafflecopter giveaway

"Whose Waves These Are" by Amanda Dykes

My review...

I'm not a fan of overly romantic stories, so I was a bit hesitant to read this. But, as I love books pertaining to WWII, I decided to give it a try. I'm glad I did. It's more a book about love (and the various types) than a romance story. Themes of grief, loss, hope, and healing are also key.

The story is told in alternating POVs, which is something I really enjoy. Rich details combine to create beautiful prose that pull the reader in. The cast of characters is quite enjoyable, and I love the way Dykes portrayed God's light in the storm. Both time periods were well-developed, which isn't always the case in time-slip novels. This emotional story will likely stick with the reader after the final page.

One of my favorite quotes is: "Lift your head, brave one. This life is a storm, no doubt about it. But oh, the One who holds the waves, who holds our hearts. What it is to think of facing the storm in His hands, wrapped in a love that is fathoms — infinite fathoms — deep."

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.

Amazon purchase link

About Amanda...

Amanda Dykes is the author of Bespoke: A Tiny Christmas Tale, the critically acclaimed bicycle story that invited readers together to fund bicycles for missionaries in Asia. As a former English teacher, she has a soft spot for classic literature and happy endings. She is a drinker of tea, a dweller of Truth, and a spinner of hope-filled tales, grateful for the grace of God loves extravagantly.

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"Shine the Light" by April McGowan ... and a GIVEAWAY!

WhiteFire publishing has graciously offered to give away a copy of this new release (for US residents: choice of hard copy or e-book; for all other residents: an e-book). You can enter by using the Rafflecopter link at the end of the post. (Giveaway ends May 3, 2019. If you are the randomly chosen winner, I'll contact you and pass on your information.) 


Back cover copy...

Shannon is out to save the world one caring act at a time. She’s stood by her best friend, Amber, through their whole lives—especially when Amber lost her sight. She has an active outreach ministry to the homeless and disenfranchised. And she’s even let down her guard long enough to let a boyfriend, Justin, into her life.

Her life has settled into a pleasing routine of teaching, freelance photography work, quiet dinners with Justin, and taking Amber on treks to find new subjects for her visionary paintings.

But when a man from her past shows up, her secure world crumbles into triggered PTSD episodes that threaten everything she relies on. Will she be able to overcome these old memories, or will her past crush any hopes she had for a future? 

My review...

I loved the first book in the series (Hold the Light), so I was anticipating the sequel. The characters are relatable and will be familiar if you’ve read the first book, but the story could still make sense if you haven’t. Themes of healing and love are key. Shannon’s story demonstrates Christ’s love for those who may be different or suffer challenges (physical or mental). Homelessness, addiction, and PTSD are addressed in a compassionate manner. While Shannon didn’t have an easy childhood (as she grew up in the foster care system), she never doubted that God loved her.

There are some secondary characters who play minor, yet important, roles. They represent those in society that are often overlooked, such as the mentally ill, homeless, or those battling addiction. It’s heartwarming to see that they are not overlooked by Shannon … or God. Many of the characters remind the reader that we never truly know someone just by looking at them from the outside. While I didn’t like this book quite as much as the prior one, I still found it to be a satisfying and enjoyable sequel.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

Amazon purchase link

About April...

April McGowan loves to read and write inspirational fiction. She and her husband, two children, and her ‘mews’ (three cats!), live in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. April is a member of Oregon Christian Writers, the Christian Author’s Network, and American Christian Fiction Writers. When she’s not writing, homeschooling her son, or playing board games, you might find her at her drum kit, imagining she’s on a world tour. Hey, it could happen.

Where you can find her online...

website:      www.aprilmcgowan.com
Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/AuthorAprilMcGowan/
Twitter:       https://twitter.com/aprilkmcgowan

a Rafflecopter giveaway

"Made for This" by Jennie Allen

My review...

I’ve never read anything by this author, but I really liked the description (as well as the cover) of this book, so I was excited to have the chance to review it.

I love that this book is interactive! It’s designed to be used over the course of forty days, and there are passages, scripture verses, and reflection questions/activities for each day. Real stories and Biblical connections are used for each passage. I haven’t completed the book yet, as I’m spending more than a day on each reading/activity. It’s perfect for someone who wants a book that will make them think about their own story along the way.

Lots of people likely wonder about their purpose, and this book is designed to help the reader discover what God wants to accomplish in their life. I wish I’d received this prior to Lent, but it can be done at any time. Allen shares her own journey while encouraging the reader to answer and explore some challenging questions in order to find out their unique purpose. The book is divided into four sections: The Prayer, The Call, The Threads, and The Future. If you’re looking for a book that (may) pull you out of your comfort zone but encourage and inspire you, this is a devotional book to check out.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy as part of the HarperCollins BookLook Bloggers program, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

Amazon purchase link

"Exceptional You!" by Victoria Osteen

My review...

I’ve read a number of books by Joel and Victoria Osteen, so I was excited to read Victoria’s latest. I’m always encouraged by them, and this one didn’t disappoint.

Exceptional You focuses on how we see ourselves versus how we should see ourselves: through God’s eyes. To Him, we are anything but ordinary. We’re exceptional and a masterpiece, expertly gifted by Him.

The book is written so you feel that you’re chatting with a friend, sharing stories and encouraging one another. The book is organized into seven sections:

·        Know That You Are Chosen

·        Lift Up Your Eyes

·        Keep Your Memory Box Full

·        Travel Light

·        Love Well

·        Live in the Now

·        Power Up

Each chapter ends with bullet points (“Exceptional Thoughts”) highlighting key items from the chapter. Personal stories, Biblical examples, and Scripture verses are woven throughout. Overall, it provides the reader with a lot of food for thought. I have numerous notes that I’ll return to when I need a dose of encouragement, as there are so many solid nuggets of truths in this book, many of which remind the reader that words have power.

Here are a few of my favorite quotes:

·        “Where you’re going is much more important than where you’ve been.”

·        “You cannot undo your past, but you can do something about your present.”

·        “Don’t let your own voice of doubt drown out the voice of God.”

·        “Take your worry list and make it your prayer list.”

·        “You have something to offer that no one else can give.”

·        “The happiest people are those who appreciate the blessings in their lives and don’t underestimate their value.”

·         “Life is fragile. Find reasons to be grateful. They are always there is you look for them.”

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

Amazon purchase link

About Victoria...

Victoria Osteen is the co-pastor of Lakewood Church, the New York Times bestselling author of Love Your Life, and the host of a national weekly radio program, Victoria Osteen Live, on Sirius XM's Joel Osteen Radio. She is an integral part of each service at Lakewood as well as the "Night of Hope" events across the U.S. and abroad. She lives with her family in Houston, Texas.

"Half Finished" by Lauraine Snelling

My review...

Three friends decide to create a group for finishing unfinished craft projects of any kind, from an afghan to a boat. Men and women can participate.

I found the concept behind this story interesting. I can relate to the "UFO's" in this book, as I have quite a few of my own. (And I'm sure many other readers will agree!) I really enjoyed the cast of characters (and the fact that they were older than is typically found in many novels). They demonstrate how God can work through others, despite their differences. The relationship between Ginny and Amalia was perhaps my favorite. The small town added to the story's charm, and it was realistic in how everyone seems to know what's going on with everyone else. 

There is a large cast of characters, and having a list included at the beginning would've been helpful. The pace is a bit slow in parts, but it balances out overall. Tips for starting your own UFO group are included.

One of my favorite quotes: "I mean, after all, we are all UFOs when you think of it. God said He would do the finishing."

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy as part of the FaithWords blogger program, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.

Amazon purchase link

The State of my TBR Pile

I have a confession, actually two, to make: I LOVE BOOKS! And I’m a book hoarder. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that the state of my TBR pile is such that is almost has its own zip code! Of course, that’s a slight exaggeration, though my husband would tell you it’s not too far off, especially as he watches my books take over bookshelves, the chair and stool in my office, the corner of my desk, the couch, and even the stairs. (Thankfully, he can’t see how many are on my Kindle 😊) Actually, he’s a great sport and encourages my reading by taking me to various book signings and conferences, and he carries around all my books and swag. But, I digress…

What can I say? I’m an editor and reviewer, so I have a book in my hands (be it a physical copy or e-book) most of the time. I’m truly blessed to have a career that is a perfect match for me (and fuels my passion … and obsession).

I just love reading, and that’s reflected in the variety of books found in my TBR pile. While I read a lot of Christian fiction, my TBR pile also includes nonfiction and mainstream reads. A number of genres are represented, as well. I participate in a variety of launch teams, street teams, and blog tours, and those books are a large part of my TBR pile. I also review for magazines and publishers. I tend to organize my pile(s) by the deadline, such as the release date.

So, what books am I looking forward to reading, you ask? Let’s take a look at my condensed TBR pile (in no particular order):

·       Flight of the Raven by Morgan L. Busse: This is the second book in the series. I agreed to review the first book for the publisher, even though it was quite different from the books I normally read. Boy, am I glad I stepped out of my comfort zone! I loved it, and I rushed to find out when the sequel would be out. I also picked up other books by Busse, Tainted and Awakened, which are also fabulous! I was blessed to meet the author at a book signing, too!

·      The Tinderbox by Beverly Lewis: I’ve been reading Lewis’s books for as long as I can remember. She piqued my interest in Amish fiction, and it’s become one of my favorite genres to read. I’ve met Beverly twice, and she’s as charming as the characters she writes 😊 (She even agreed to speak to my mom on the phone as a Mother’s Day gift, which totally made my mom’s day … and made it tricky for me to top the next year!)

·       Chosen People by Robert Whitlow: So many things in the blurb grabbed me. I’ve read a couple of Whitlow’s books in the past, so I’m looking forward to reading his latest.

·       The Pages of Her Life by James Rubart: Rubart is one of my favorite authors. His stories never fail to draw me in and make me think about things I hadn’t considered before.

·       A Daughter’s Truth by Laura Bradford: I already mentioned that I’m a fan of Amish fiction. I’ve never read a full-length novel by Bradford, though I have read a novella.

·      

Burnout by Emily Nagoski (nonfiction): This is another book that pulled me in by the title and description. I think I’ll find the information quite useful.

·       Kill the Queen by Jennifer Estep: This one is different than many books I tend to read. However, I’ve realized over the past few years that it’s okay to step outside my comfort zone, and, in doing so, I’ve found a number of great books. From what I’ve heard about this book, I’m hoping that’s the case here.

·       The Tubman Command by Elizabeth Cobbs: I remember learning a bit about Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad, but I’ve never encountered a book quite like this one, which showcases the bravery and brilliance of an American icon.

·       Half Finished by Lauraine Snelling: I’ve read a few of Snelling’s books, but they’ve been historical novels, so I’m looking forward to seeing what she does with a contemporary tale that follows an ensemble of women/friends.

·       On Magnolia Lane by Denise Hunter: The is the third book in the charming “Blue Ridge” series. Need I say more? (And that cover looks so wonderful now, especially as I’m looking at snow out my window.)

·       The Medallion by Cathy Gohlke: I’ve read some of her books in the past, and they’re some of my favorite WWII-era books, so I’m excited about this one, which is inspired by true events from Poland.

What books are in your TBR pile? Hopefully, I’ve given you some suggestions to add to your list.

"Breakthrough" by Joyce Smith

My review...

This true story has been made into a movie, and it is a reflection of a miracle and the power of prayer.

Joyce Smith shares her personal story of when her son falls through the ice and his heart stops for an hour. Through it all, she believes and relies on the power of prayer, boldly asking God to save and heal her son.

Smith’s story is one that grabs you from the beginning and doesn’t let up, making this book a quick read. The faith message is prominent throughout the entire book, and the details allow the reader to clearly see God’s hand at work. The forward is written by John, the main character, and there’s an afterword by the pastor. Scripture references, John’s doctor’s letter, and an author’s note are also included and well worth reading.

If you are not a believer in Christ, this book may not be for you. Or, it may be just what you need to see the peace that can only be found through a relationship with Jesus and recognize that miracles still happen.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy as part of the FaithWords/FirstWords Blogger program, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

Amazon purchase link

"The Forgiving Jar" by Wanda E. Brunstetter

Back cover copy...

What would happen if you found out someone has been impersonating you?

Sara Murray has never met her mother's parents and was surprised to learn after her death that they were Amish living in Pennsylvania. When she is finally able to make the trip to meet them, she is shocked to learn someone else has been living with them and pretending to be Sara. Sara can't understand how quickly her grandparents are willing to forgive the impostor.

Secrets and deceit seem to follow Sara, and she is so tired of it. Though soon she meets Brad Fuller who is visiting her grandparents during Christmas; even he sees to pull away from her, not being totally honest.

Struggling, Sara finds an old canning jar hidden in the barn that is full of encouraging prayers. Can Sara find a way to forgive the past and move on to building new relationships?

My review...

I really enjoyed the first book in the series, so I was excited to read this one, and I found it to be just as enjoyable.

The story continues to follow Michelle and Sara, who’s now returned to stay with her grandparents. Therefore, it would be quite helpful to read the books in order. Characters are realistic, though Sara does come across as a bit annoying at times with her tendency to hold on to her jealousy and anger. I enjoyed watching each girl go through struggles and insecurities on their way to becoming who God designed them to be. There is a bit of romance along the way. While there were a couple twists, some parts were a bit predictable. However, it was a sweet, relatively quick read overall. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.

On another note, I’m looking forward to trying the two included recipes (Sara’s Pumpkin Bread and Mary Ruth’s Turkey Vegetable Soup.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

Amazon purchase link

"Book Girl" by Sarah Clarkson

Book Girl A Journey through the Treasures and Transforming Power of a Reading Life 

When you hear a riveting story, does it thrill your heart and stir your soul? Do you hunger for truth and goodness? Do you secretly relate to Belle’s delight in the library in Beauty and the Beast? Then you might be well on your way to being a book girl.

Books were always Sarah Clarkson’s delight. Raised in the company of the lively Anne of Green Gables, the brave Pevensie children of Narnia, or the wise Austen heroines, she discovered reading early on as a daily gift, a way of encountering the world in all its wonder. But what she came to realize as an adult was just how powerfully books had shaped her as a woman to live a story within that world, to be a lifelong learner, to grasp hope in struggle, and to create and act with courage.

She’s convinced that books can do the same for you. Join Sarah in exploring the reading life as a gift and adventure, one meant to enrich, broaden, and delight you in each season of your life as a woman.

In Book Girl, you’ll discover:

• How reading can strengthen your spiritual life and deepen your faith
• Why a journey through classic literature might be just what you need (and where to begin)
• How stories form your sense of identity 
• How Sarah’s parents raised her to be a reader—and what you can do to cultivate a love of reading in the growing readers around you
• 20+ annotated book lists, including some old favorites and many new discoveries. 

Whether you’ve long considered yourself a reader or have dreams of becoming one, Book Girl will draw you into the lifegiving journey of becoming a woman who reads and lives well.

My review...

I’ve been a reader and book lover for as long as I can remember, so I was excited to check out this book. And if you are (or want to be) a bookworm, this is something you should read, too.

The book is a nice guide in how to grow your love of reading by reading books that will change your life, or at least your heart. There are numerous book lists and recommendations, as well as the author’s personal memories associated with the books, including how they shaped her life. The books are quite diverse, so there is likely something of interest to everyone. I have read MANY books in my lifetime, and there were numerous books on these lists that I’ve never read, and some I’ve never even heard of. My TBR list has grown since finishing this book 😊  

Some of the lists include:

·        The Beloved Dozen: The Novels that Taught Me How to Live (which includes books such as Hannah Coulter by Wendell Berry and To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee)

·        Girlhood Classics: The Books that Began it All for Me (which includes books such as Pollyanna by Eleanor Porter and Heidi by Johanna Spyri)

·        Girl Power: My Favorite Novels about Brave and Faithful Women (which includes books such as The Song of the Lark by Willa Cather and Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen)

·        “Courage, Dear Heart”: The Spiritual Classics that Made My Heart Strong (which includes books such as Against Heresies by Irenaeus and The Genesis Trilogy by Madeleine L’Engle)

·        The Books We Shared: My Family’s Favorite Read-Alouds (which includes books such as Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens and The Giver by Lois Lowry)

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

Amazon purchase link

About Sarah...

Sarah Clarkson is an author, a blogger, and a student of theology. She graduated from Wycliffe Hall, in Oxford, with a bachelor's degree in theology, where she also spent a proud year as president of the Oxford University C. S. Lewis Society. She's the author of Read for the Heart (a guide to children's literature), Caught Up in a Story (on the formative power of story), and Journeys of Faithfulness (a creative, contemplative devotional for young women), as well as the upcoming Book Girl (a woman's guide to the reading life). Through blogs, books, and her current research, she explores the theological significance of story, the intersection of theology and imagination, and the formative power of beauty. She writes regularly about her adventures at sarahclarkson.com and is at slow work on a novel. She can often be found with a cup of good coffee in one of the many quaint corners amid Oxford's "dreaming spires," where she lives in a red-doored cottage with her husband, Thomas. 

"Giddy Up, Eunice" by Sophie Hudson

Hudson’s latest is designed to show that while women need Jesus in their lives, they also need other women. She intends to showcase in this book that “what we have in common far exceeds any perceived generational differences.”

In her latest book, Hudson brings a biblical approach to female relationships by using Elizabeth and Mary, Naomi and Ruth, and Lois and Eunice. In addition to incorporating Scripture throughout, the author shares personal tales, as well. She uses cross-generational mentors to show that older and wiser women have a number of things to share with younger women, and vice versa. The pairs deal with heartbreak, redemption, legacy of faith, and finding your calling. The author is likely to have the reader laughing and crying throughout this thought-provoking book. This book would work well for a small group study, too.

It is apparent that Hudson has a heart for God and other women. She incorporates a number of modern references (television shows, cell phone apps, etc.) to keep things relevant for today’s reader.

Hudson has a southern wit to her writing which is very engaging. If you want to try out some of Sophie’s writing before buying one of her books, you can check out boomama.net  This is a blog she’s had for over ten years.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy as part of the B&H blogger program in exchange for an honest review.

Amazon link for purchase:

http://amzn.to/2bqoqyI

"Fervent" by Priscilla Shirer...and a GIVEAWAY!

B & H Publishing Group provided me with an extra copy of this book, and I'm happy to offer it to one lucky person. To enter, go to the Rafflecopter box at the end of the post. You must enter by October 31, 2015. If you're the randomly chosen winner, I'll contact you for your mailing information (US ONLY).  Good luck!


I will admit I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when I went to see War Room. I did not plan to leave the theater feeling blown away, but that is exactly what happened. This movie has such a powerful message. While it is geared (in many ways) for married couples, I believe anyone could benefit from watching this movie. So when I had the opportunity to read and review this book, inspired by the movie and written by one of the main actresses in it, I jumped at the chance. I’m so happy I did. I’m thrilled that the publisher allowed me to have a copy to give away to one lucky person. My copy is flagged and highlighted after just one time through it. This book is a wonderful resource for an individual or small group. While it is designed for women, I feel there are things in this book which can be utilized by anyone. I hope you find this book as encouraging and helpful as I do.

My Review...

This book is different from just about any other one I have ever encountered. It is designed to be used and lived, not just read. There is so much to digest, so be sure to allow ample time when working through the chapters. It is not a theological discussion, but a hands-on resource. It is well-organized, easy to follow, and thought-provoking. It is so relatable, particularly as Shirer includes a number of personal stories. The enemy is set on destroying us, but we don’t have to allow it.

As Shirer notes, a main purpose of her book is to get God’s fence of protection around us, and learning the correct way to pray, specifically with precision, is key. Prayer is the fuel that drives everything, and the enemy is out to hit us hardest in the following areas: our passion, our focus, our identity, our family, our confidence, our calling, our purity, our rest and contentment, our heart, and our relationships. Shirer points out that these are the areas we need to focus on. She encourages the reader to write out prayers, and there are perforated prayer strategy pages at the end of the book for this purpose. “You write out your prayers so you ‘won’t forget’… won’t forget who the real enemy is, won’t forget the One in whom your hope lies, won’t forget your real need and dependencies, and, later, won’t forget the record of how God responds.” The latter can be noted in a prayer journal.

When we pray, it should include praise, repentance, and asking.  I love the one acronym she uses in the book:

Prayer Releases All Your Eternal Resources

Each chapter ends with biblical passages and promises that can be used to create specific prayers for each of the ten areas listed above. Fervent prayer needs to be focused!

While there are a number of wonderful reminders in this book, one of my favorites is:  “These areas of greatest fear and anxiety in your life are clues to some important spiritual information. They reveal… that a personalized strategy has been insidiously put in place to destroy your vibrancy and render you defeated.” We are truly in a battle, but it is not one we have to lose. By following the strategies outlined by Shirer, the reader will be better prepared for battle, complete with the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, and the shoes of peace (the full armor of God, as mentioned in Eph. 6:10-17).  So, grab your notebook and pen and dig in!

Disclaimer: I received a free copy from the publisher (B & H Publishing Group) in exchange for an honest review.

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