BookCrash book Review: “For the Joy set before us” by Erica Fye

http://www.amazon.com/For-Joy-Set-Before-Us/dp/1633570029/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1427728952&sr=8-1

 

“For the Joy Set Before Us” by Erica Fye

Nonfiction, missionary book

Review copy source: BookCrash

My rating: 5 out of 5 stars

About the book:

Ever wonder what your calling is? Do you feel burdened for the nations? If you are willing to follow where God leads you, the road ahead may be challenging, but it will be well worth it if you do not give up. In For the Joy Set Before Us, Erica Fye invites you to journey with her to get a glimpse into the life of a missionary, and to offer insight into what God may have in store for your life.

My Thoughts:

I was so impressed and encouraged by this book! I love missionary books as it is, but this one was spectacular, with so many deep truths. Erica Fye really gets it.

An honest, good look into what it means to be a true missionary of Christ – and this can be anywhere, doesn’t just mean in the field. We are missionaries in our homes. I know many say that, and it’s easy to pass off – I’ve done that – but it’s true. Wherever God places us we are missionaries, because His light shines through us. He is in us.

I really liked that she hit hard with the fact that people think you can just run off to be a missionary, without thinking about the consequences, the lifestyle, what it means to be in Christ and show Christ to others and just the raw truth of it all. I had to stop and think about it myself, and pray that God would put the purest, right motivation in my heart. As she says, our main goal in missioning should be because we love Jesus. Only Him. He has to be our motivation, our desire, our light, and everything will flow out of that.

This book deeply challenged me, and really helped me.  There were times where I had to set it down to think about what the author was saying. I really love seeing people who are so emptied of themselves and filled utmost with Christ. I want to be that way.

Erica Fye gave real-life examples, and she wrote of it all so well. She was real and so filled with the Holy Spirit, and that showed through her amazing, yet humble writing. It was so good.

I would encourage all to read this book – even if you aren’t planning on going out as a missionary. This book has soooo many amazing Biblical truths and I just loved it. I know I will be looking back on it in the future, many times. It was humbling, teaching, and inspiring.

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from BookCrash in exchange for this review. All thoughts are my own and unbiased.

Book Trailer:

Human Trafficking

Human Trafficking is real, and oh-so serious. How many of us take the time to actually think about it and pray for those that are trapped in it? I forget too often, though it is something that weighs heavily on my heart.  Today I want to share a music video on the topic. Please watch and listen till the end, and please, please, please, keep these victims in your prayers!

 

 

I had a dream the other night that I was trapped in a human-trafficking ring, and I woke up with my heart beating rapidly, reminding me to pray for those who are caught in it. For them, it is not just a dream, but a living nightmare.

 

  

Books I’ve read (fiction) about it:

http://www.amazon.com/Priceless-Novel-World-Tom-Davis-ebook/dp/B005S2CMQA/ref=sr_1_9?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1427553255&sr=1-9&keywords=priceless

“Priceless” by Tom Davis. This was my first real entry into the world of Human Trafficking, and it broke my heart. This book was amazing, and sad, and redemptive, and you should read it.

 

http://www.amazon.com/Visible-Threat-Janice-Cantore-ebook/dp/B00E1O7O3W/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1427553347&sr=1-1&keywords=visible+threat+by+janice+cantore

“Visible Threat” by Janice Cantore. Again, eye-opening, and heart-wrenching. I reviewed this book here.

 

http://www.amazon.com/Deliver-Me-Evil-Kathi-Macias-ebook/dp/B008FBMQ9O/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1427553450&sr=1-1&keywords=kathi+macias

“Deliver me from evil” by Kathi Macias.

 

“Not Abandoned” by MacKenzie M. This is, God-willing, in the process of being published by my kindred spirit. I was so blessed and privileged to be one of her first readers, and I cannot wait to share this book with you all. She captured the topic/situation of Human-trafficking beautifully, and yet showed the heart-breaking truth of it, and God just completely took over.

 

As for non-fiction, this book was really good:

http://www.amazon.com/White-Umbrella-Walking-Survivors-Trafficking-ebook/dp/B008B9VJM0/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1427556109&sr=1-1&keywords=white+umbrella

“White Umbrella: Walking with Survivors of Sex Trafficking” by Mary Frances Bowley (I also reviewed this one here).

 

And I might’ve read other books, but these are the ones that come to the forefront of my mind.

Thank you for taking the time to read through this, and remember the victims in your prayers!

Pinterest Favourites Week 8

Happy Friday :)

It’s been rather an eventful week for blog posting for me….I hope you’ve enjoyed them! This weeks pins I’ve to share are a bit diverse. Some story ones, some quotes, cool things, etc. Take a look below.

 

An Archer in the woods. Most would think Robin Hood, but it could be anyone. :D

 

This just made me smile. I love being an aunt. ^.^

 

Aren’t these amazing? There is even a place to put your knife! Love them.

A Beautiful ‘crown’. :)

 

I thought this was encouraging and inspiring. He will clean all the dross out of us yet!

 

Amen. Our purpose in everything is to further God’s Kingdom!

 

What I was reading this past week:

   (It is AMAZING. You should all read it. This was my second time threw)

And I’m now reading:

  SO excited for this one, and I’m already enjoying it. =)

What are you reading? Pinning?

 

 

“Forgiveness with Thee” – a Short WWII story by yours truly

Hello readers!

Jack Lewis Baillot over at However Improbable is holding a WWII themed give-away, the ‘give-away’ to be three copies of her book, “Brothers-in-arms” which I dearly would love to read. Thus I am entering! One of the ways to enter is to write a short story relating to WWII, so that is what I have done. Here it is!

 

  (pic via Pinterest)

“Forgiveness with Thee”

by Raechel Lenore

Gun fire and explosions rang in Danny’s ears continually, yet his limbs refused to follow his brains muddled commands to move!

*One more hit and I’m a goner,* he silently thought to himself. When would the terror and nightmares be over?

“I can’t…go…yet” he mumbled. “Too…many…sins to…make up for,” he cringed, the pain coursing through his entire body nearly unbearable.

“Lord, hear me, please…let me not die in vain.” He coughed rapidly, his eyes widening in fright and alarm as he saw blood on his chest, surely from the coughing.

Another explosion hit near by.

A single tear trickled down his cheek,  “I am…so…sorry…for all I’ve done, God. Please…save…my family.” More coughs, more blood. Danny knew it couldn’t be long now.

Then, as a refreshing river drenching his parched soul, Bible verses his mother had repeated over and over in his growing up years made their way through his mind:

“Out of the depths have I cried unto thee, O Lord. Lord, hear my voice: let thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications. If thou, Lord, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand? But there is forgiveness with thee, that thou mayest be feared. I wait for the Lord, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope. My soul waiteth for the Lord more than they that watch for the morning: I say, more than they that watch for the morning. Let Israel hope in the Lord: for with the Lord there is mercy, and with him is plenteous redemption. And he shall redeem Israel from all his iniquities.” – Psalm 130

Tears continued to flow down his face. But there is forgiveness in Thee…  “Thank You, Lord, Thank You,”

Everything in Danny’s world went dark.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

“Ma’am? You home, Ma’am?” a young soldier pounded on the door of a small American home. Amelia McQuade stood at the kitchen stone, making do with what little supplies she had. “This blasted war” she mumbled. Wiping her flour-covered hands on her apron, Amelia hurried to her door. Another knock sounded, and she called out, “Be right there!” Her little four-year old son appeared at her feet, “Who is it, Mamma?”

“I’m not sure, Daniel,” She answered patiently. “Shall we find out?”

Not waiting for her child to answer, Amelia opened the door, her hand resting on her pregnant stomach.

“Can I help – ” her hand quickly flew to her mouth. Danny. You came home!

The young soldier stood behind Amelia’s husband’s wheelchair. “We thought he was a goner, Ma’am, but apparently the Lord had other plans,”

Danny took Amelia’s hands in his broken ones, “I waited for the Lord…and He delivered me back to you.”

Praise ye the Lord.

The End

I hoped you enjoyed this short tale! Be sure to head over to Jack’s blog and join in her give-away fun!

Please no stealing – this writing piece belongs to me (and God!); thank you for respecting that!

Book Review: “Brothers and Betrayal” By Sarah Holman

“Brothers and Betrayal” by Sarah Holman

#2 in The Tales of Taelis Series (click the link to go to Amazon and purchase!)   Releases March 28th 2015

My rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

About Sarah Holman:

Sarah Holman is a not so typical mid-twenties girl: A homeschool graduate, sister to six awesome siblings, and author of three published books and counting. If there is anything adventuresome about her life, it is because she serves a God with a destiny bigger than anything she could have imagined.

 

About the book:

My Thoughts:

Once again, Sarah Holman has spun a marvelous tale, giving light to the many virtues the Lord desires to cultivate in us. In “Brothers and Betrayal”, the main theme is forgiveness and mercy. It’s oftentimes a hard lesson, but so important. I think it was shown beautifully in this book.

The characters were very like-able (except for the bad ones, but they were still well-crafted!), and I enjoyed reading from a couple of the characters’ different points of view. I found myself very intrigued by The Archer, and Brianna was another favourite character as well. Oh, and the character, Sarah was cute. :)

“Brothers and Betrayal” was a very enjoyable tale, and I am very much looking forward to the next in this lovely series! I really appreciate how Sarah Holman writes God-honouring tales that portray His goodness and is clearly woven in faith. I think these books would be a great read for all, but especially young readers, to encourage them in their walk with the Lord. I wish there were more books such as these!

So with that being said, I highly recommend these books to anyone and everyone! It is so refreshing to read such clear, godly, enjoyable books.

Marvelously done, Miss Holman!

 

 

Readers, make sure you check out Sarah Holman’s blog for more info and fun! Link is provided when you click on either her name at the top also the very top image. :) And click on the link below to go to the Rafflecoptor Giveaway!!!

RAFFLECOPTOR GIVEAWAY

I received a complimentary ecopy from the author in exchange for my honest review, which I have given. I was not paid to give a positive review; all thoughts are my own.

 

 

 

 

Book Review: “A Mighty Fortress” by Faith Blum

http://www.amazon.com/Mighty-Fortress-Hymns-West-Book-ebook/dp/B00GPDQVC2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1427075187&sr=8-1&keywords=A+Mighty+Fortress+by+Faith+Blum

 

 

“A Mighty Fortress” by Faith Blum

#1 in The Hymns of the West Series

About the book:

“Stay back!” Joshua ordered. He kept his eyes on the scene below while waving his arm in Ruth’s direction. “Get deeper into the woods and stay down low to the ground.”
Joshua hazarded a glance behind him. He could no longer see Ruth and breathed a sigh of relief. In one swift move, he grabbed his rifle and lay flat to the ground. Extending the rifle, he aimed at the shorter man whose gun was pointed at Bradshaw.

Joshua and Ruth Brookings are traveling by stagecoach to finally join their parents in Montana. Attacked by murderous outlaws, the teens barely escape with their lives and must survive in the barren Wyoming and Montana territories and escape the man who’s hunting them.
Seven years ago, Jed Stuart ran away from home and joined Tom’s gang. Jed is tired of the lawlessness and wants out. The only problem? He is the boss’s right-hand man and will never be able to leave. And what’s one more stagecoach robbery, anyway?
Can Joshua lean on God’s strength to keep himself and his sister alive until they find a town? Will Jed be able to face his anger or will it consume him completely? All three are running–the hunter and hunted. What will happen when they meet?

My thoughts:

I was so delighted when Faith offered to allow me to review her first book. I’ve been wanting to get started on her books since becoming friends with her back in November, and this was a perfect opportunity! I’ve really enjoyed getting to know Faith, so finally being able to read her books is great!

First I will say that I loved all the scripture added throughout the book. That was a total plus for me, and I am glad for it!
I thought that the writing style was perfect for its specified age group (YA), though there were a couple themes that I thought were a bit more ‘mature’. This was the author’s first published work, and while that showed in a couple instances, I think many will enjoy this book, and series.

The plot was very engaging, and kept me reading most definitely. I think the characters could’ve used a little bit more ‘depth’, but they were still likeable. And the Christian theme throughout the book was really good; I really appreciate good Christian themes in books that are evident – not hidden. The ending was a bit sad, yet redemptive and well done.
I read in one other review that a lot of the story was more ‘tell’ than ‘show’, and I found I could agree with that. And while it doesn’t hinder the story much, I think a bit more ‘showing’ would have been nice.

I am not usually a fan of Western-setting books, but I was glad to find that I enjoyed this book! :)

Thank you very much, Faith, for sending me a complimentary e-book in exchange for this review! I’m looking forward to reading the rest of your books. :)

 

About Faith:

An avid reader, Faith Blum started writing at an early age. Whether it was a story about the camping trip that summer or a more creative story about fictional characters, she has always enjoyed writing. When not writing, Miss Blum enjoys reading, crafting, playing piano, moderating on the Holy Worlds Historical Fiction Forum and playing games with her family (canasta, anyone?). As a history enthusiast who has been fascinated for years with the Old West, Faith has endeavored to create a clean, fun, and challenging Western story. Faith lives with her family on a hobby farm in the Northern Midwest, where she enjoys the many cats they have.

Author Interview with Sarah Holman

I am happy to be sharing another author interview, this time with the self-published author, Sarah Holman! She is celebrating the release of her newest book, “Brothers and Betrayal” the second book in her “Tales of Taelis” series. I reviewed the first in the series (here) and will be sharing my review of “Brothers and Betrayal” on Tuesday the 24th. :)

Welcome to my blog, Miss Holman, I’m delighted to have you here! Would you like to introduce yourself a bit?

Hi! I am twenty-four years old and still live with my amazing parents and siblings on five acres of wooded land in the heart of Texas. You can find my most day tapping out stories on my computer, or reading stories someone else has written.

How long have you been writing for and what first spurred you on to write?

I have been writing novels since I was eleven (so I guess that makes it fifteen years). I started writing because I was frustrated that I couldn’t find books that I wanted to read. So, I decided to make my own stories. It kinda took off from there.

-I love hearing things like that. Writing is such a gift. :)

Your Tales of Taelis Series is very faith-filled and inspiring, were any of the lessons shown in the book from your personal walk with God?

All my books have a lesson within the pages, mostly ones that God is trying to get though my thick head.  For instance, Adventure and Advertises was written when I was going through a very hard time in my walk with God and out of that came the lesson that God cares and is there for me, even when I couldn’t feel him.

-That’s really cool. I love when God teaches through writing.

How long did it take you to write your newest Tales of Taelis book, “Brothers and Betrayal”?

It took me about three weeks to write the first draft. That is a new record for me.

-That’s impressive!

Do you have a favourite character from it that you relate to most?

Brianna, the Princess, is my favorite, even though we don’t have a lot on common. However, we both do try to stand up for those who are in need of help, even when others think they are not worthy.

You self-published: did you experience any troubles going that route, or are you entirely happy with it?

Yes and yes. I had some troubles, but I am completely happy with my decision. I really felt that this was what I was supposed to do and I have never regretted it. When I do hit snags, I have a huge community of other indi-authors that I can ask questions of.

 -Good to know, and yes, I’m sure that’s a blessings!

What are your writing plans for the future?

Currently, I am in the middle of editing the first book in a new series for adults about and FBI team that I plan to publish this summer. I also am planning to publish the next book in the Tales of Taelis series this fall. If that wasn’t enough, I also have a bunch of short stories I plan to release.

 Thank you for visiting, Sarah, and congratulations on this new book of yours!

More about Sarah Holman….

The Destiny of One – her blog

Sarah Holman is a not so typical mid-twenties girl: A homeschool graduate, sister to six awesome siblings, and author of three published books and counting. If there is anything adventuresome about her life, it is because she serves a God with a destiny bigger than anything she could have imagined.

Pinterest Favourites Week 7

Good Friday to ye all. :)

I’ll be honest and say I’m a little tired this week, so I’m just going to dive right into this week’s pins and I might not say something about each one:

 

(so much so)

 

Verse to lean on for me right now. What was cool is that I read this verse in the Bible RIGHT before I saw this pin – not a coincident. :)

:)

 

That’s how I felt after finishing “The Tomb: a novel of Martha” by Stephanie Landsem.

 

What I am reading:

I’m enjoying this book by a friend. I’m excited to finally be reading her books. :)

I also just finished reading a story of one of my other friends, about human-trafficking. It is yet unpublished, thus I don’t have a cover picture to share, but I am SO excited, because I believe this is the book she will publish first, within the next few months. Don’t worry, I’ll definitely be posting more about it when it comes to pass! The book is so good.

 

As always, I’d love to hear from you, about your week, what you’ve been pinning,reading, doing, etc. Anything and everything. :) God bless!

Book Review and extras: “The Tomb: a novel of Martha” by Stephanie Landsem AND Recipe and giveaway!

http://www.amazon.com/Tomb-Novel-Martha-Living-Water/dp/1451689128/ref=sr_1_1_twi_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1425989129&sr=8-1&keywords=The+Tomb%3A+a+novel+of+Martha

 

Eeeeee, I am so excited about this one!!! Enjoy this review, and stay tuned for the give-away info and the recipe at the end!!

 

“The Tomb: a Novel of Martha” by Stephanie Landsem

Book three in The Living Water Series (though can easily stand alone)

Review copy from the author

My rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

 

About:

In this captivating retelling of a classic biblical story, Jesus shocks the town of Bethany with Lazarus’s resurrection from the dead, leading Martha—a seemingly perfect woman trapped by the secrets of her past—to hope and a new life.
Everyone in Bethany admires Martha—the perfect Jewish woman. She feeds and clothes her loved ones, looks after the family farm, and meticulously follows every precept of the Pharisees’ strict laws. But Martha is hiding a secret. At her sister’s marriage feast, she gave her heart and her innocence to a young musician who promised to return and marry her, but instead betrayed her love and abandoned her.
Seven years later, only two people in Bethany know of Martha’s secret sin: her brother, Lazarus, and Simon, the righteous Pharisee to whom Martha is betrothed. When Lazarus falls ill, Martha is faced with a choice: send for Jesus to save her dying brother—risking the wrath of Simon who threatens to betray her—or deny Jesus’ healing power and remain trapped in her tomb of secrecy and lies.
Meanwhile, on the shores of Galilee, Isa roams the wilderness, tortured by demons and knowing only that someone is waiting for him. When he is healed by Jesus, he finds that seven years have passed since his descent into madness. Isa journeys home to Bethany only to find he is too late to win back Martha’s love.
When Martha risks all to heal Lazarus, will Jesus arrive in time, or will he—like Isa—come too late?

My Review:

*Sigh* What a perfectly lovely book, that is not just full of fluff. I loved it. I absolutely loved it. I had not one thing that I didn’t like. Stephanie Landsem continues to amaze me with her awe-inspiring books. This is the third book in her fantastic “Living Waters Series” and the encounters the characters have with Jesus are all superb! It’s heart-moving, really, it is. I have cried through all three of these books, so yes, as you can see, “The Tomb” was no exception.

Again, God is so good to have me read it at the exact right timing – I needed to read about Martha. And Mrs. Landsem just completely brought her to life in this amazing book. The Bible account is beautiful, and Mrs. Landsem just accents that.

What would Martha’s day to day have been like? What did she feel, believe, struggle with? Oh, it is all showed and handled so well in “The Tomb”! And each character was beautifully constructed. I got so attached to all of them.

Having read the Bible account of Lazarus many times, I knew what was going to happen, yet when Lazarus died – and came back to life by  Jesus’ power – I cried. It was so emotional.

Along with tears, this book had me laughing, as well as yelling at it. My family can attest to that. =D There were some edge-of-the-seat moments, I tell you.

But I didn’t want it to end. I didn’t want the whole book to end, because I loved it so much. It is one you just want to stay in – forever. And I can’t wait to return to the lovely world Mrs. Landsem has shone light to.

What I love about Biblical fiction is it is so full of godly wisdom, and makes you read the Bible in a whole new light. I sometimes forget that when I’m reading just your regular ‘romance’ or ‘historical’ fictions – even if they’re Christian – Biblical fiction just gives me such a peace and fills me.  Praise God for Biblical fiction. :) (This is not to say that I do not enjoy romance/historical fiction, if they are Christian. Some are very God-filled, in which case I like them equally)

Oh and at the end there was a part where two characters from the previous Living Water’s Series book made it into the scene! It was adorable, and made me very happy. :)

I could rave on and on about this book, but I will try to stop and make sure this review isn’t too lengthy. But please, do check out all of Stephanie Landsem’s books – you won’t be disappointed!

One of the quotes I loved:

“He [Jesus] loved her- not because she could cook a feast, and keep her household clothed, not because she immersed the vessels and kept the law. He loved her…because she was Martha.” – Chapter 49 page  282

ALSO readers, I’m delighted to share with you two extra things with this review. Below is the image for the give-away Stephanie Landsem is holding on her blog, so be sure to click on that and go check it out!

And second, I have a recipe of Martha of Bethany’s to share! It looks yummy. :)

 

Martha’s yogurt with pomegranate syrup

This is a simple, yet beautiful and delicious recipe that will make you feel like you’re having breakfast in Bethany with Martha, Lazarus, and Zakai. You only need two ingredients for this breakfast treat:

Plain yogurt (I use Greek yogurt but regular would work fine also)

Pomegranate juice

 

Martha would have had to break open the pomegranates, take out the seeds, pound them and strain out the juice. We can use a bottled pomegranate juice like POM to make this much easier.

Pour 2 cups of pomegranate juice into a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil. Boil gently until it is thick and reduced to about ¼ cup, it should take about 40 minutes. Watch carefully toward the end. Pour into a small pitcher or measuring cup to cool. When cooled, it will be thick and deep red.

Scoop yogurt into a bowl and pour the cooled syrup over. (The pomegranate syrup will be slightly bitter and not as sweet as we are accustomed to in our culture.)

Enjoy the flavors that would have been familiar to Martha and her family during the time of Jesus. 

 

attribute for the pomegranate pic: “Pomegranate close up” by Taken byfir0002 | flagstaffotos.com.auCanon 20D + Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 – Own work. Licensed under GFDL 1.2 via Wikimedia Commons – http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Pomegranate_close_up.jpg#mediaviewer/File:Pomegranate_close_up.jpg

And the last picture is thanks to Mrs. Landsem herself!

 

And let me say a BIG THANK YOU to Stephanie Landsem!! It was a JOY and BLESSING to be our your team and I adore your books :)

 

Note: I received a free copy of this book from the author and publisher in exchange for my honest review which I have given.

Pinterest Favourites Week Six

Happy Friday!

I hope you enjoyed the author interview with J.A. Marx this past Wednesday! If you haven’t checked it out yet, you can do so here!

This weeks pins are most story-inspiration, except for these first two:

 

God desires a soft heart, one He can mold and shape into His beautiful vessels. :)

I do. And I realise that sometimes I struggle with my ‘idea of God’ – when I just need to let Him be God and me be Raechel.

Just thought this was rather neat.

Saw this and stories started flowing through my brain. :)

And this is a possible face for my most recent character. (Yes, I started another story. Don’t judge me.)

So, there are some of my pins from the week! This is what I finished reading this week:

   – it was EXCELLENT!!!

This is what I am reading now:

 

but I also read this:

  and this: 

 

Both short stories were enjoyable. “Think” would make a very amusing movie. “Love by the Letter” was adorable and I wish it was longer than its seven chapters! Such a good prequel to Melissa Jagears other books. :)

What are you pinning and/or reading?