Hope Your Heart Needs: 52 Encouraging Reminders of How God Cares for You by Holley Gerth

Holley's books have heart. Her obvious love for God and her audience come shining through each of her pages. Hope Your Heart Needs  is an interesting book, while the title points out the intent of reminding readers of God's care, each little chapter (averaging only a few short pages) serves more as an introduction to a different name and aspect of God's character. What a brilliant and solid way to introduce true hope to readers.

The chapters themselves are easy to read, mostly consisting of life lessons Holley has experienced and scripture verses which all point back to  the  thematic name of each chapter. At first, the easiness of the read had me concerned that the book would be more fluff than substance (certainly not what I expect from Holley) but as I read on each chapter read more as a gentle invitation to discover God's character reinforcing the call of hope and care the title offers to readers. Holley uses scripture to present biblical evidence for God's nature while providing human examples of how that nature intersects with the human heart in the  messy, beautiful complexity that is faith and relationship.

Physically, the book is a great carry long, smaller than the average book, it's easy to slip into a bag or a friend's hand when they need a pick me up ;) 

4 out of 5 stars.

I received this book as part of the Revell Reads Book Tour, the opinions expressed are my own.

Fake or Follower by Andi Andrews

If I had to choose a different theme for this book it would be following through on faith in a consumerist culture. Andi adamantly encourages readers to be active  in their faith, discontent in merely receiving. I found Andi to be straightforward in her message and tone, almost to the point of abrasiveness, until her personality comes through the pages and the initial abrasiveness begins to read more as urgency in love.

This makes sense as Andi covers a wide variety of topics that are heavy in nature dealing both with the individual and communal. I really appreciate this widespread coverage in her work in light of the church existing as one made up of many. Her information on identity, healing, and reconciliation are all important but it's the fact that she frames her message within love that makes it so powerful.

That love really comes through thanks to the honesty and vulnerability Andi infuses into each page. These aren't the lessons of a removed teacher but someone who has walked through grief, wrestled with confusion in the face of our society, and remained passionate about her faith. There is a definite feel that Andi does not write a single word she is not actively trying to live out each day in her own life. Each chapter ends with the "making it real" section to help readers assess and apply the contents to their life in an achievable way. This is so refreshing in a world where so many try and set standards above and beyond the plausible or healthy. 

My one sticking point in the book was chapter 6 Introverted Extrovert. As an introvert myself, I've struggled to find my voice in and outside of the church due to the misunderstanding surrounding the term. I found that Andi tended to lean more to the common understanding of introversion being preference or personality rather than  a method of recharging  which was disappointing. 

Andi's style is definitely more "in your face" than I'm used to but her message is an important one of urging the church to live out their calling and lives passionately. At the very least Fake or Follower  promises to inspire  important reflection and conversation for those involved in the North American church.

4 out of 5 stars.

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

When Your Kid is Hurting by Dr. Kevin Leman.

I think one of the toughest parts of parenting is when your child is in trouble and you aren't sure how to help them. My kids are still small enough that most troubles can be solved with hugs, reassurances, and maybe a few skittles but I'm well aware that these days are speeding by too quickly so I was curious to see what approach Dr. Leman would take with his most recent work.

Overall, I was pleased to see Dr. Leman favouring a practical approach to handling crisis. When Your Kid is Hurting combines basic counselling principles and parenting techniques into a relatable, easy to read book introducing parents to the challenges and troubles youth and children face today. I was especially pleased to find the last third of Leman's book took the format of an extended Q & A. This section was probably my favourite feeling like a form of case study and really shaping the previously presented material in a format that made it easy to see how things played out in real life. This section combined with the many inserts including reviews or reference lists help the book serve as an easy reference when needed.

I was also pleased to see that Leman did his best to introduce a plethora of issues common to kids today giving the book wider application. I know there are amazing in depth books on helping kids with mental illness, divorce, grief, etc.  . but with many people today reading less it's helpful to have a general book like this that touches on many things. 

I was also happy to notice that with this broad and general approach Leman took the time to address the parents themselves. He looks at common parenting reactions and walks parents through their own response to tough times. I love that Leman acknowledges the interconnection of family and how everyone needs to own their own role.

There were times I felt the generation gap in Leman's tone or approach with some of the more prevalent issues today. While he always acknowledged the gravity, some sections felt like the complexity of the issue was skirted over.

4 out of 5 stars.

I received this book as part of the Revell Reads book tour in exchange for my honest opinion.

He Is Enough by Asheritah Ciuciu

This is the bible study I've been looking for. Now as a quick preface, I haven't finished the book entirely yet, however, that's only because it is so good I refuse to rush through for a deadline.

The format Ciuciu has chosen is perfect for a busy life. Each day begins with what is referred to as a "snack." This page is what I've found in so many devotionals these days: a quick reading, a few questions, and a thought or two. Here's the great part, it doesn't end there. 

The rest of the chapter features the "F.E.A.S.T."( Focus, Engage, Assess, Spark, and Turn) for  those with a longer stretch of time. This section is what makes this study so special, it really serves as a step by step for those who are unfamiliar with how to do an in-depth study while still posing information engaging enough for those who have been through a few books before.

I love how they take you through a process of focusing and aligning your heart, thinking through the material, and turning to worship. In many ways this study doesn't have the feel of "just a study" but reads  more as a training tool with F.E.A.S.T.being applied to many books in personal study. 

Also helpful are the banner sections scattered throughout the book. These usually include further readings or links to additional resources online. I found these sections either helped dive deeper into the days material or present a different angle to approach  the topic, both of which were extremely helpful.

4.5 stars out of 5

I received this book from Moody Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion, all views are my own.

The Best of Intentions by Susan Anne Mason

Grace Abernathy and Andrew Easton are  the perfect leading pair from Susan Anne Mason's latest novel. I love how real this duo feels as they wrestle through their grief from the war, making decisions that fade into grey rather than a clear black and white, and repeatedly lay themselves and their hearts on the line.

Honestly, I'm so over novels where the couple falls head over  heels at first sight and never looks back. I love how Andrew and Grace's friendship feels natural and how, when secrets are revealed they react like actual human beings  that have been hurt. I may have  been yelling at the page during their confrontation but had to admit it made sense.

That's what I love about Mason, she doesn't shy away from having her characters wrestle through emotional situations where there isn't a clear cut answers. The Eastons aren't villains, Grace isn't an above reproach heroine, each family has their own motives, pains, and hurts that muddle up their views. This gives Mason's work and honesty and interest that is exciting and refreshing.

That said, I also appreciate how Mason doesn't  leave her characters alone and unresolved in her pain. The Best of Intentions has a lovely theme of forgiveness, reconciliation, and the importance of family that runs through the entire novel. Her "sermons" within the novel felt natural thanks to Rev. Burke and Mason's attention to secondary characters.

The only negative I found is the setting. Now, I enjoy Canadian history and actually have been to Toronto many times (not to mention Murdoch Mysteries is set there - a family favourite) it felt, however, that with a few name changes the story could have taken place anywhere. I'm hoping further outing in the Canadian Crossings series make further use of the variety present in Canadian landscape and landmarks

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

The Reckoning at Gossamer Pond by Jaime Jo Wright

Jaime Jo Wright has done it again. Between her strong female leads, attention to detail, and ability to weave past and present into one gripping tale Wright's books are fast becoming must-reads in her genre.

One of Wright's greatest strengths is her ability to anchor plots with details that cross the decades and I loved the way she  incorporated those overarching details throughout The Reckoning of Gossamer Pond. I found myself going back and rechecking details on a certain watch or flipping through and realizes afresh the significance of events as new family relationships were revealed. These details help give the plot a full and complete feeling.

I also appreciate the pacing of Wright's work.  The mysteries surrounding both Libby and Annalise were given time to grow and unveil themselves naturally throughout the plot. This really helps give the story a stronger secretive atmosphere and allowed me easier access into the world  of Gossamer Grove.

Finally, I appreciate the leads Wright brings to life. Rather than focusing on coming of age, Wright brings out women who have strengths, goals, and lives of their own  while still feeling  the effects of loss and hurt from their past. I appreciate seeing characters who are relatable wrestling with the messiness of life and human  mistakes.

 

The only downside I found with The Reckoning at Gossamer Pond was the development of the Corbin brothers. While both held important roles to the plot I still wanted more out of them, especially in light of Wright's ability to bring out details. The brothers felt functional more than riveting and Jacobus especially felt like a character with more to add.

Wright has become my hands down go to for a good historical mystery. I cannot wait to see what she brings to life next.

4.5/5 stars

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

Pumpkin Spice & Everything Nice Colouring Book Illustrated by Julianne St. Clair

Okay, for the sake of full disclosure, I adore autumn. It is easily my favourite season and I revel in my fall bias :) 

When I heard Thomas Nelson was releasing an "autumn themed" colouring book I was curious if they would be able to capture the charm and atmosphere of this season.

Overall, I'm charmed. The pictures really do cover a wide spectrum of the season from the tradition pumpkin patch to beautiful fall flowers, to hot drinks and fall sunsets. The variety was impressive and certainly gives a lot of options for colouring choices depending on a person's mood. The pictures really evoke the nostalgia and slowing down I personally associate with the season.

As far as construction goes the book itself has a nice weight with reasonable paper weight. I found my pencil crayons (or my children's crayons) went on well and easily brought the images to life. That said, I do wish the pages were either thicker or single sided as markers just were not a reasonable option do to bleed through.

Finally, I found the text selection interesting. The book does utilize a solid collection of scripture verses for users to fill in as one would expect from Thomas Nelson but also includes a few sayings ranging from theologians to simple fall themed whimsy. 

I  am looking forward to indulging in some quiet moments with my coffee, a comfy blanket, and this colouring book all autumn long and can see any other fans of the season have an equally enjoyable time.

4.5 stars out of 5

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.