B4B: Unstoppable by Nick Vujicic

Song Stuck on the Brain: Stupid Boy by Cassadee Pope from The Voice

Unstoppable

by

Nick Vujicic

MY TAKE:

I first heard Nick Vujicic's story when I watched his DVD, No Arms, No Legs, No Worries. His testimony, perseverance and faith blew me away. It touched me. Here's a man that most would say has the worst deal in the world, and yet look how he shines for Jesus. And he shines for Him because he walked through all the darkest times and chose to cling to Jesus as his savior rather than curse Him. He made me look at my life, my walk, and my testimony in a new light and examine my path with a new perspective. I shared the video with everyone I could.

With Nick's new book, Unstoppable, he's back to share more of his testimonies and experiences in life. What touched me a great deal this time around, was how open he was in sharing his darker moments when he struggled with his faith and how Jesus helped him to turn it around. Faith is tested, that's part of life. It's what makes it stronger. No one is immune to that. Even the strongest Christians find themselves questioning things at times. I loved how he used his own bad example as he puts it, to show us a way back and to be stronger when it's past. His words are inspiring, honest, heart wrenching at times; but powerful in a way that will have you taking a deeper look into your own heart. You'll be sailing through the book so that you can share it with everyone around you.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Being unstoppable is about believing and achieving. It’s about having faith in yourself, your talents and your purpose and, most of all, in God’s great love and His divine plan for your life.

Millions around the world recognize the smiling face and inspirational message of Nick Vujicic.  Despite being born without arms or legs, Nick’s challenges have not kept him from enjoying great adventures, a fulfilling and meaningful career, and loving relationships.  Nick has overcome trials and hardships by focusing on the promises that he was created for a unique and specific purpose, that his life has value and is a gift to others, and that no matter the despair and hard times in life, God is always present. Nick credits his success in life to the power that is unleashed when faith takes action.

But how does that happen?  In Unstoppable Nick addresses adversity and difficult circumstances that many people face today, including:

·         Personal crises
·         Relationship issues
·         Career and job challenges
·         Health and disability concerns
·         Self-destructive thoughts, emotions, and addictions
·         Bullying, persecution, cruelty, and intolerance
·         Balance in body, mind, heart, and spirit
·         Service to others

Through stories from his own life and the experiences of many others, Nick explains how anyone wanting a “ridiculously good life” can respond to these issues and more to become unstoppable. What’s standing in your way?  Are you ready to become unstoppable?

Visit Nick on Facebook HERE.  Read the First Chapter HERE.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Meet Nick Vujicic, pronounced ‘Vooy-cheech’. Born in 1982 in Melbourne, Australia, without any medical explanation or warning, Nicholas Vujicic came into the world with neither arms nor legs. Imagine the shock his parents felt when they saw their first-born brand new baby boy for the first time, only to find he was what the world would consider imperfect and abnormal. A limbless son was not what nurse Dushka Vujicic, and her husband Pastor Boris Vujicic had been expecting. How would their son live a normal happy life? What could he ever do or become when living with such a massive disability? Little did they or anyone else know that this beautiful limbless baby would one day be someone who would inspire and motivate people from all walks of life. God uses Nick to touch lives and bring the hope of Jesus Christ to people across the globe.

Today, this limbless young man has accomplished more than most people accomplish in a lifetime. Nick made the massive move from Brisbane, Australia to California, USA in 2007, where he is the President and CEO of a non-profit organization, Life Without Limbs. Since his first speaking engagement back when he was 19, Nick has traveled around the world, sharing his story with millions of people, speaking to a range of different groups such as students, teachers, youth, businessmen and women, entrepreneurs, and church congregations of all sizes.  He has also told his story and been interviewed on various televised programs worldwide. “If God can use a man without arms and legs to be His hands and feet, then He will certainly use any willing heart!”


I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review

B4B: To Heaven and Back: A True Story by Mary C. Neal, M.D.

To Heaven and Back: A True Story 

by

Mary C. Neal, M.D.

MY TAKE:

I found Mary's story moving in a lot of ways. Although, her life after death experience was brief, it was very interesting to see the experiences in life that led up to that moment and how it changed her life after. Her testimonies range from small to big. Although I might not agree with her on some points, I do believe that Jesus Christ can use anyone and enables those who are called, using our weak and human selves to let His light shine through if only we truly believe and make that covenant with Him. As our faith grows, so does our knowledge and that leads us not only to a closer relationship to Jesus, but to others around us as well. It's His love that draws them.

For my own personal experience, when we were told my father had cancer and there was no treatment to be done, I heard that voice of assurance loud and clear saying, "everything will be all right." And I knew it would be whether Dad recovered or not. He didn't, dying one month to the day after his diagnosis. But because of our faith and Jesus' goodness and comfort, we were able to rejoice and celebrate his going home, rather than bury ourselves in grief. I've found that the many testimonies we had as a family through Dad's illness have been a comfort to others, just as testimonies that were shared with us comforted our family.

Mary answered the call to share that there is nothing to fear from Jesus or death. That is an important message today when so many have lost that foundation in Christ and have no hope. I think it's a worthwhile book to read and recommend you read it with a prayer in your heart that Jesus will make known to you what is truth and give you that testimony.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

A kayak accident during a South American adventure takes one woman to heaven — where she experienced God’s peace, joy, and angels — and back to life again.

In 1999 in the Los Rios region of southern Chile, orthopedic surgeon, devoted wife, and loving mother Dr. Mary Neal drowned in a kayak accident. While cascading down a waterfall, her kayak became pinned at the bottom and she was immediately and completely submerged. Despite the rescue efforts of her companions, Mary was underwater for too long, and as a result, died.

To Heaven and Back is Mary’s remarkable story of her life’s spiritual journey and what happened as she moved from life to death to eternal life, and back again. Detailing her feelings and surroundings in heaven, her communication with angels, and her deep sense of sadness when she realized it wasn’t her time, Mary shares the captivating experience of her modern-day miracle.

Mary’s life has been forever changed by her new found understanding of her purpose on earth, her awareness of God, her closer relationship with Jesus, and her personal spiritual journey suddenly enhanced by a first-hand experience in heaven. To Heaven and Back will reacquaint you with the hope, wonder, and promise of heaven, while enriching you own faith and walk with God.

Check out the following links: Doctor Mary Neal on FOX News , or LIKE Mary Neal's Facebook

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Mary C. Neal, M.D. is an orthopaedic surgeon. She studied at the University of California at Los Angeles School of Medicine, completed her orthopaedic residency at the University of Southern California and is fellowship trained as a spinal surgeon. She is the former Director of Spine Surgery at the University of Southern California and is a founding partner of Orthopedic Associates of Jackson Hole. Her after-life experience has been featured on national media including WGN, Dr. Oz, and Fox and Friends. She has served as a church elder, on several non-profit organization boards, and created the Willie Neal Environmental Awareness Fund. Dr. Neal lives with her family in Jackson Hole, WY.



I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

B4B: Not This Time by Vicki Hinze

Today I'm touring on behalf of WaterBrook/Multnomah:

Not This Time

by

Vicki Hinze

MY TAKE:

I wish I had known this was the third book in a series. That's my only complaint. When I opted in I was hooked by the premise of the suspense, but nowhere did it indicate a series. Once I had the book in hand, neither the front cover or spine indicated a series, it wasn't until I was several chapters in and feeling as if I was missing something, did I find it notated on the cover page that it is book 3 in the Crossroads Crisis Series. Had I known it was a sequel, I would have purchased and read books 1 and 2 first. It would have been worth it. And I tell you that so you have the opportunity to enjoy this book in the order it was intended, because it is worth the effort.

Ms. Hines did a fantastic job with the characters and the intrigue. Just when I thought I had it figured out another clue would rock my hypothisis. Which of course makes the intrigue truly suspenseful because you spend a good portion of your reading time hoping that this character or that person isn't going to be evil after all. It's a great read with strong Christian characters that share their faith in their daily living. Fantastic book. Now I'm off to find the first two books, Forget Me Not and Deadly Ties.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Small town scandal. International terrorist attack. Who among them is the traitor?

Sara and Beth have built a multi-million dollar business together, but their once solid friendship is now strained. Beth is leery of Sara’s husband, and when he is kidnapped, authorities consider Beth their prime suspect.

Then, their small town of Seagrove Village is rocked by an act of terrorism, and Beth doesn’t know who to trust. Someone she knows is linked to the attack, but who? Is there a connection to Crossroads Crisis Center? In the midst of the confusion and fear, Beth finds herself attracted to a man from her past. She knows she shouldn’t fall in love with him, but she can’t resist or even explain their bond. As her world unravels around her, she wonders, is it possible to be beyond redemption?

To read an excerpt click HERE, or BUY NOW

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Vicki Hinze is an award-winning author of multiple novels including Forget Me Not and Deadly Ties. Hinze’s willingness to take risks in writing and genre has earned her a reputation for trail-blazing skill. She holds a Master of Arts in Creative Writing and a Doctorate in Philosophy, Theocentric Business & Ethics and served as vice president on the International Thriller Writers Board of Directors. She lives in Florida with her husband.


"I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review."

B4B: The Scroll by Grant Jeffrey and Alton Gansky

Song Stuck on the Brain: Over My Head by The Fray

The Scroll

by

Grant R. Jeffrey

and

Alton L. Gansky

MY TAKE:

The scroll starts out with an emotional plea from a longtime mentor. It's also a plea for Dr. David Chambers to return to his faith and passion. The archeological research is fascinating and the plot is fast paced. I found myself emotionally connected with David and his team, even when the characters weren't behaving so rationally. I enjoyed seeing the growth of David's character and his struggle with seeing God's hand in his life. There are plenty of twists and turns that keep you on your toes up to the very last page.

My only caveat would be (Spoiler ALERT) that the point of all of the archeological drama and discovery was to rebuild the Jewish temple to reinstitute the temple practices. I believe that Jesus proclaimed in prophecy that His temple would be rebuilt, I know it will. However the purposes and practices of that temple will be changed. Jesus said that He fullfilled the law. He was the final sacrifice. His sacrifice on the cross is the only sacrifice required. We only need to humble ourselves, repent and accept that gift of salvation by making a covenant with Jesus. It made the story seem a little dissapointing in the terms that this fantastic writing collaboration with so much archeological evidence concludes with a distorted conclusion.

I still enjoyed the story, but would find myself recommending it with the precaution of explaining to anyone not familiar with Jesus's teachings that the conclusion of the story needs to be examined more closely for an accurate understanding.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

One last dig. One final descent into the twisted tunnels of ancient Jerusalem. Will the truth be found among the treasures that lie beneath the holy city?

Dr. David Chambers, leading archaeologist, has spent his professional career uncovering the facts in the artifacts. His work sets the standard for biblical research in the Holy Land. But surrounded by the evidence, David has sunk into an abyss of doubt. A painful experience with a seemingly unresponsive God has left him without hope. The Old Testament scriptures that used to fill his mind with wonder now drive him to frustration. His unanswered questions have ripped him from both his academic pursuits and the love of his live, his fiancee, Amber.

An old friend and mentor reaches out to David, enticing him with the riches described in the enigmatic Copper Scroll. Losing ground with his peers, his love, and his faith, David Chambers has a choice to make. Will he undertake one final dig to unlock a secret that could alter the course of history? Do the mysteries of the Old Testament hold the key to the political turmoil of the Middle East?

In a world where faith has been eclipsed by the allure of doubt, The Scroll offers a different journey: a gripping adventure to find truth worth dying for.

CLICK to read the PROLOGUE and INTRO CHAPTER







ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

Grant Jeffrey is recognized as one of the leading teachers on Bible prophecy and an intelligent defense of our Christian faith. He is the chairman of Frontier Research Publications, Inc., a leading publisher of books, tapes and videos.

Alton Gansky, is author of over 40 books. Over the last decade and half, Alton "Al" Gansky has produced numerous novels that have taken readers from underground bases to an orbiting space craft 200 miles above the earth; from a possessed WWII submarine to murder in small towns; from Antarctica to Ethiopia.

Al specializes in suspense and supernatural suspense novels, but has also written several nonfiction books dealing with biblical matters and biblical mysteries.

In addition to his own writing, Al, through his company GANSKY COMMUNICATIONS, provides writing services to publishers, agents, businesses, and other authors.

Al is a frequent speaker at writing conferences around the country.

Al has been a Christie Award finalist (A SHIP POSSESSED) and an Angel Award winner (TERMINAL JUSTICE). He holds a BA and MA in biblical studies. He lives in central California with his wife.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review

B4B: Indelible by Kristen Heitzmann

Indelible

by

Kristen Heitzmann

MY TAKE:

I think this might possibly have been the most moving book I've read this year. I couldn't put it down. The insight into humanity and who we are as individuals was very well done, but the use of Natalie's illness was brilliant. The inability to forget, not just an event, but every detail and micro expression. Emotions, in essence freezing as indelible images on her mind, blocking all but the insight she's been shown to the inner soul. Although a painful condition, she's used her sculpting to deal with it and create beauty. What has seemed like a curse to Natalie, may be more of a gift than she's ever realized.

There's definitely romance in the air for several couples, and the nail biting anticipation to discover who the creepy guy is that's photographing children in dangerous situations is suspense done right. But it's more than just a romance or a suspense, it's a love story. An example of an all encompasing love that looks beyond the pain, cracks and ugly to see what God really intended. Beautifully written. I can't recommend it enough.

And if you worry about sleeping at night, be sure to read it early in the day before it gets dark. :)

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Broken dreams don’t keep former gold medal skier and Search and Rescue volunteer Trevor MacDaniel from taking life head on, but personal loss has driven home how fragile and fleeting life and innocence are. He will risk his life for someone in need, as Natalie Reeve learns when her nephew is snatched from a trail by a mountain lion.

An eidetic savant, Natalie processes emotional images that lodge in her mind by sculpting the faces in clay. She displays her nature statues at her gallery, but hides the faces that are part of her gift, part of her disability. Seeing beneath the surface, she processes the micro expressions and reveals, in clay, the person she sees with God’s eyes.

Fleur Destry lost her sight at fourteen, but that doesn’t stop her from painting studies in colors she now sees only with her mind’s eye. Her oil paintings are the perfect match for Nattie’s sculptures, a fit as natural as their new friendship.

Redford, Colorado, has recovered from the bizarre events of the previous fall, but Jonah Westfall is still intent on protecting his own when something dark once again threatens the tranquility of his burgeoning town. Strapped for personnel and resources, he relies on Trevor and even Natalie to unravel the threat posed by someone who identifies himself with the fallen angel of Milton’s Paradise Lost and imagines Trevor his opposite, an archangel and heaven’s chosen.

To read an excerpt click HERE.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Kristen Heitzmann is the bestselling author of two historical series as well as ten contemporary romantic and psychological suspense novels, including The Still of Night, nominated for the Colorado Book Award; The Tender Vine, a Christy Award finalist; and the Christy Award-winning Secrets.

She lives in the Colorado Rocky Mountain foothills with her husband Jim and sundry family members and pets.


I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review

B4B: When Sparrows Fall by Meg Moseley

Song Stuck on the Brain: I Can't Fight This Feeling by Chicago

When Sparrows Fall

by

Meg Moseley

MY TAKE:

I Can't Fight This Feeling by Chicago seems to be the appropriate song to be stuck on my brain. "My life has been such a whirlwind since I saw you." Those lyrics seem to suit Jack Hanford to a 't', a single, college professor and literature lover, Jack's life is turned upside down when he receives a call from his 12 year old nephew, Timothy, telling him his mother is in the hospital and Jack is their legal guardian. Jack hasn't seen his deceased brother's family for 9 years, and he's only met them once. When he arrives at the secluded country home 90 minutes later he finds 6 kids all waiting for answers.

Meg Moseley did a brilliant job with this story. Jack, quirky as he is at times, is the normalcy and anchor for the craziness that follows. Miranda is a young widow trapped in a cliquish, near cult like church with secrets that run so deep, fear rules her life. Jack is her only remaining family and she'd rather trust her children to a near stranger than risk Pastor Mason gaining any more control in her life. She longs to break free and Jack is the key to helping her do that.

The mystery of Miranda and her family is more tangled than the ball of yarn their kitten Hellion would play with, but the author does an admirable job of unraveling the threads for the reader at just the right pace. Always anxious for more and unable to stop reading. The undertones of forgiveness and hope are strong, and I loved the touches of allegory that peppered the book. Each one of the children are strong and three dimensional, from 4 year old little Miss Martha and her ability to see beyond the surface of a person, to Timothy, the boy/man finding where he belongs in the world.

Fantastic writing, I look forward to more from Meg Moseley.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Freedom. Safety. Love. Miranda vows to reclaim them--for herself, and for her children.

A widow and mother of six, Miranda Hanford leads a quiet, private life. When the pastor of her close-knit church announces his plans to move the entire congregation to another state, Miranda jumps at the opportunity to dissolve ties with Mason Chandler and his controlling brand of “shepherding.” But then Mason threatens to unearth secrets only he knows, and Miranda feels trapped, terrified she’ll be unable to protect her children.

Professor Jack Hanford is more than surprised when he gets a call from his estranged sister-in-law’s oldest son, Timothy, informing him that Miranda has taken a serious fall and he has been named legal guardian of her children while she recovers. Quickly charmed by Miranda’s children, Jack brings some much-needed life into the sheltered household. But his constant challenging of the family’s conservative lifestyle makes the recovering mother uneasy and defensive—despite Jack’s unnerving appeal.

As Jack tries to make sense of the mysterious Miranda and the secrets she holds so tightly, Mason’s pressure on her increases. With her emotions stirring and freedom calling, can Miranda find a way to unshackle her family without losing everything?


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Although I’ve lived more than half my life in other states, I grew up in California and am still a California girl at heart. I love vintage bungalows, twisted oaks on rolling hills, and the rocky beaches of the Central Coast.

A few blocks away from home stood the Lutheran church where I came to faith, first through Sunday School teachers whose kindness drew me to the kindness of God, and then through confirmation classes. The Bible verses that had been drilled into my head came to life in my heart.

After moving away from home as a teenager, I worked at a variety of jobs, from candlemaker in a tourist town to administrative assistant at a Christian college. I married a wonderful man from Michigan, and we lived north of Detroit for seventeen years. That’s where we started homeschooling our three children, a journey that we finished in Georgia when our youngest graduated from high school in 2009.

My husband and I live near Atlanta, close to the foothills of the Southern Appalachians. His motorcycle often carries us to the mountains of Georgia, Tennessee, or the Carolinas. Sitting on the back of the bike, I can pray, enjoy the beautiful views, and plot new stories. Fiction makes my world go ‘round, whether I’m writing it or reading it.


I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review

B4B: Little Star by Anthony DeStefano

Song Stuck on the Brain: Beautiful by MercyMe

Today I'm reviewing another children's picture book for Waterbrook Multnomah's Blogging for Books program.

Little Star

by

Anthony DeStefano

Anthony DeStefano weaves a sweet and warm tale about the night the Christmas star appeared. The tale of Little Star shares how even the smallest and least important of us all can make the biggest impact on the world through love.

A king is about to be born! The stars in the heavens are competing to shine the brightest to celebrate his birth. But when they see the poor family, the donkey, the shabby stable, the stars all think, That can’t possibly be a king. We’ve been fooled.

All except one. The smallest, loneliest star in the sky, Little Star, is the only one to understand what the king was about to bring to the world. Love for the baby king and understanding bring out the brightest light in the heavens from the smallest of all the stars.

This is sure to be a Christmas favorite. The artwork is beautiful, nearly lifelike in detail, yet the stars hold a whimsical feel that keeps the imagination alive.

Although some might dispute that the star burned long enough for the wise men to arrive nearly two years later, the message of the story book is more about love and giving your all for Jesus. It is a story, after all. Perfect for families reading together or for an older child that reads well.

The Dragon and Turtle Go on Safari by Donita K. Paul

Song Stuck on the Brain: I Could Not Ask For More by Edwin McCain






Today, as part of the Blogging For Books program with WaterBrook Multnomah, I'm reviewing:

The Dragon and Turtle Go on Safari

by

Donita K. Paul

& Evangeline Denmark

MY TAKE:

I think this is my first review of a children's picture book, but I couldn't pass up the opportunity to read more by one of my favorite authors. Plus, I collect children's picture books and knew this one would be a good addition. I love a good story and well done illustrations.

The story is fun, with Roger and Padrig's imaginations seeing an owl as a howler monkey and a kitten as a baby leopard, to name a few. I enjoyed the way the two boys encouraged one another to be brave and never made fun of the other for being jumpy at night. It's very cute with a strong underlying message. The illustrations are adorable and are perfect for the story, a very important part of the book as a whole.

I would say it's better suited for older children that read well, or as a story read by an adult to a child. In my mind though, that's a great choice for stocking your bookshelf. Sure, it's very important for kids to practice reading for themselves, but being read to is also very important in their literary growth. Kids that hear words pronounced properly, experience the proper flow and rhythm of a story being read, and see the fun and joy that is brought by sharing a good story with someone else, become better readers. It's also a great way of bonding with a child.

I'm excited to see that Donita K. Paul has expanded her writing genre and look forward to seeing more.

"Go on Safari" with your child - Enter to Win!

WaterBrook Multnomah want to send your child on their very own backyard safari!

Prize includes:
A Child-Size Tent
2 Sleeping Bags
And Much More!


ABOUT THE BOOK:

Roger the turtle and Padraig the dragon are together again for their second adventure, The Dragon & the Turtle Go on Safari, by Donita K. Paul and Evangeline Denmark, illustrated by Vincent Nguyen. Roger and his new friend, Padraig go on a camping trip and have all kinds of adventures together.

The friends brave the night and hear all sorts of sounds from the jungle as they learn more about what it means to be a real friend.



ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

A former schoolteacher, DONITA K. PAUL is the best-selling author of the Dragon Keeper series, The Vanishing Sculptor, and Dragons of the Valley. She enjoys cooking, beading, stamping, knitting, and her grandsons. Not necessarily in that order.


The daughter of novelist Donita K. Paul, EVANGELINE DENMARK grew up living and breathing good stories. Now she enjoys fiction writing and loves to share Roger and Padraig stories with her own two rambunctious boys.





ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR:

New Jersey-based professional artist and illustrator, VINCENT NGUYEN has worked on such movies as Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs, Dr. Seuss' Horton Hears a Who!, Ice Age: The Meltdown, and Robots. His whimsical style brings Roger and Padraig to life on the page.