The Button Legacy by Ginger Marcinkowski

Rarely do I come across a book I consider my friend and so gleefully I declare that I already miss my time in the pages of this wonderful read which had quickly become my daily friend. Without being a spoiler, the author Ginger Marcinkowski had a warm way of drawing me into the lives of a family of which I feel are now a part of my heart. I wished I had first read the previous book by the same author which is Run, River Currents which precedes The Button Legacy.

Nevertheless, I cheered and cried and was taken back to my own childhood memories. This book's theme is the story telling of those who wore garments with the buttons which the family had kept. Stories were told of the buttons and the people surrounding the history of the buttons. 

In Chapter One, my memory of my mother's button canister came back to me. I remembered smelling the buttons. Yes, they had a certain smell. I had forgotten the smell until I read this book. Reading a book and being reminded of good childhood memories is such a precious gift!

The gentle weaving of God into the pages made me feel at  home. This book was a testament to a gentle evangelism as I very much appreciated the respect and honor given by the parents leaving their children a godly heritage. I wish I had the same love bestowed on me from my own grandfather, I know it would have made me feel special and loved and I know it would have made a big difference in how I would see myself as I grew into a woman. Alas, more reasons to love having been drawn into this book and having this book on my bookshelf as a reminder that books can become friends. Stories can be blessings and blessings can be gleaned from sharing stories about buttons.

I will never look at buttons the same way again! I most likely will do as this family did and cut buttons off clothing which held memories. I will choose the buttons which hold positive memories as well as dark days. I want to remember everything because we know the dark days allow the bright days to shine even brighter.

Thank you Ginger Marcinkowski! You have blessed me than you will ever know with sharing The Button Legacy with me!

To purchase this amazing book please visit http://www.amazon.com/Button-Legacy-Emilys-Inheritance/dp/1620152169/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1463065064&sr=8-1&keywords=the+button+legacy

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author. 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.” 

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Pharmocracy by William Faloon

300+ pages of eye-opening information which every wise purchaser of anything supplement or drug-related needs in the evil days in which we are living! I was excited to review this hardcover book for many reasons. However, the takeaway which stuck with me the most was the new knowledge I have gained regarding the FDA and the corruption which exists in our government when it comes to trying to control the entire health care industry.

As the daughter of a Hospital Director of Pharmacy and Geriatric Specialist, I knew a bit about business aspect of the drug industry. I saw the little trinkets and logo laden pads, pens and letter openers enter our home growing up. Not a Christmas went by that a generic drug promotional this or that was not stuffed into our Christmas stocking. My Dad liked the attention of the drug reps and he would often beam when discussing how he was courted. I was also used to my Dad's homemade drug concoctions and being comforted by a spoonful of this or a spoonful of that. A pill would heal any ill! While other Dads would bring home pens from the office, we got many colored pills in safety cap orange plastic bottles.

Yes, as an adult I have paid the price for this self drugging. And so, my search for a better way had led my husband and I to Life Extension www.lef.org. And so, after reading Pharmocracy, I have come to fully understand just how cozy the FDA is with the drug industry. And it makes me burning mad!

On a personal note, my Dad has now been diagnosed with Lewy Body and Parkinson's. I am quite frustrated because I know with all of my soul that he would benefit from a simple liver detox. I am told that "We do not want to muddy the waters". Thus, my advise and counsel is ignored and -  you guessed it! A drug cocktail is administered to my Dad (because he is no longer sane enough to know what pills he should take) day in and day out. I helplessly sit by and watch him decline.

I have a battle to wage in my own life regarding drugging (in my case now it is the lack thereof). My medicine cabinet is filled with healthy essential oils and plant based cocktails. I will only allow a drug if I am dying.

Throughout Pharmocracy famous quotes are included. I loved Thomas Jefferson's quote on page 313. "That whenever any form of government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or abolish it." Thomas Jefferson, Declaration of Independence, July 4, 1776.

Pharmocracy is filled with cross references and footnotes in each section. I appreciate this because I do not want to rely on what one person says without backing up those statements with facts. I trust many well-intentioned authors, but references allow me to be a Berean!

My Dad will sadly and is dying on his own sword. For this reason, it is one of my life goals to reverse this legacy in my own life. Pharmocracy by William Faloon is a  must read for anyone serious about being empowered to fight the western world's power move to control every aspect of our healthcare. I may not be able to change what other people do to endanger their own health but I sure can plant seeds and sit back as hopefully some will listen.

I love Life Extension! Please visit their site and consider supporting this wonderful organization. http://www.lifeextension.com/vitamins-supplements/item33835/pharmocracy

Thank you Mr. Faloon for this wonderful eye-opening resource!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Life Extension. 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.” 

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Face To Face: Meeting God in the Quiet Places by Monte Kline

I enjoyed the forthright style of writing throughout the book. Page 18 provided an excellent list.This list gave Scripture to support our unrealized identity in Christ. This is a list I will refer to often. Author Monty Kline threaded nuggets of gold such as this list throughout. There were sections at the end of each chapter for further discussion and thought, which would be invaluable for a small group environment. The Notes section also a nice touch and an excellent point of reference.

The second paragraph of the Introduction in Face To Face in my understanding was the mission statement for the entire book. So important for the reader to read the Introduction, as the Introduction was clearly an exhortation to become more personal with God.

Face To Face provided quotes from famous Christians. I enjoyed Larry Crabb's quote (page 36) as well as the author's journal entries from previous Personal Retreats. I enjoyed the journal entries and very much related to what Mr. Kline shared. The writer clearly had a way of allowing me to feel that I was his friend, and his encouragement and gentle prodding to for me to pursue a personal retreat was quite endearing. His soft humor did not escape me and I appreciated his interesting comments throughout the book.

One criticism was I would rather not have to read Rick Warren's quotes (see Church of Tares). 

My biggest takeaway were "Track 5 Moments". I quote, "Track 5 Moments are noiseless moments, moments when God's voice shouts from his creation. They are intense, almost Edenic moments when  your connection with God is unhindered-when you are "face to face". Personal Retreats invite you to Track 5 Moments." Sign me up!!! 

More about Monty Kline

I received Christ as my Savior while in college in the late 60's -- about 45 years ago.  I have been connected with Christian ministry, more or less, since then, beginning with six years as a staff member with Campus Crusade for Christ, serving as an elder in my church, serving as a guest preacher, teaching men's Bible studies for many years, doing biblically based seminars on health and nutrition, etc.  I currently attend Grace Bible Church in Bend, Oregon.  I'm more doctrinally orthodox than about 99% of the professed Christians around!

My health practice, Pacific Health Center, is oriented around biblical principles of health, as reflected in my various books including BODY, MIND & HEALTH.  I also write the Historic Faith Blog on theological issues at historicfaith.wordpress.com.

Purchase Face To Face http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00M1ZBIU8

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Intermedia Publishing Group. 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.” 

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Barbed-Wire Butterflies by Jessica Kristie

Hope. If I had to describe this fictional account which helped me to understand human trafficking, the word 'hope' would be the very best word to describe Barbed-Wire Butterflies.

Elani Benjamin's (main character) journey into a hellish existence helped me to become more passionate about praying for those who have lost their freedom - whether due to sexual trafficking or an existence in a sweat shop. I was educated and introduced in a gentle but riveting manner into the very real tragedy called human trafficking. The author described this atrocity through the eyes of one girl who was taken captive. Her will to survive was splayed with hope. Hope was what inspired her to create beautiful butterflies made with the most visible symbol of her captivity - barbed-wire.

Without being a spoiler, I was cheering, crying for her and touched by her willingness to be brave despite the the odds of her escape. I thoroughly enjoyed witnessing her risk her own safety by befriending her cell mates and "den mom" and then the hero. Her friendships and faith in God are what kept her from losing her mind. She was blessed. Oh that many, many more would manipulate barbed-wire!!!

The author is clearly a faith-filled woman of God, but this book I believe is for secular as well as the Christian market. The faith message was subtle yet so powerful. I thought of the little girl in the red coat in Schindler's List whose red coat danced in front of a sepia toned background. Elani had hope. She clung to that hope.

I reflected often and wondered if I had ever been placed in that position, would I have the will to survive, the hope, the strength to endure? Personal reflection and conviction for taking my own freedom for granted at times were two other takeaways (besides the reminder of our choosing to have hope in all situations).

Halfway through reading Barbed-Wire Butterflies, I joined a human trafficking prayer group at Calvary Chapel Boca Raton. We meet Sunday morning at 8:00 am before service. I am moved to tears as we lift up men and women we do not know and may never meet. We pray not just for their freedom and their safety, but their salvation. We realize that someone somewhere may just be waking up from a hellish nite only to relive it all over again - and again - and again. Praying is what I can do. And hopefully more people will read Jessica Kristie's Barbed-Wire Butterflies and be inspired to get angry about the injustices and begin praying.

I was so inspired. I will never be the same after reading Barbed-Wire Butterflies. There is so much work to be done.

Barbed-Wire Butterflies Now Available

100% Author proceeds going to Courage Worldwide

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Jessica's Advocacy blog: http://jessicakristie.com/advocacy/
 
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Jessica Kristie for the purpose of review. 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.” 

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Perfumed Letters by Robin T. Smith

Perfumed Letters, an anointed work by author Robin T. Smith was a pleasure to read each morning.Each day I read a new account of God's love for me. This book was beautifully illustrated and subtitles were helpful in summarizing each section. I love a parallel and this book's parallel was perfume and God's love. Scripture was included throughout. The author's writing style was clearly encouraging, positive and passionate. 

Miss Robin Smith loves God and His Word and is gifted in sharing through example God's love for each woman. I easily became emotional on page eight when she shared Scripture and inserted several women's names into the verse. I found this powerful and personal and sensitive. I have to admit, I added my name a few times to what she shared. This writing style helped me to become part of this journey into Perfumed Letters.

My favorite quote was found on page 10, " Your objective is to be proactive, and not reactive: Find out who God is in order to know who you are. This cannot happen by purchasing a necklace with a cross on it or imitating a celebrity. I can take it one step further. You will not find out who God is by believing every word of a preacher alone. Yes, for every reference to Scripture verbal or written, verify that it is indeed true. Get a Bible and read it." Amen! This was the direct exhortation with an encouraging spirit that I applauded.

A story stuck with me in which she was traveling alone with her infant son. I was convicted and will assist others more than I have in the past as a result. I can always offer to do something for someone within reason, especially in an airport. There were so many personal stories throughout Perfumed Letters which encouraged, inspired and exhorted me to be a more loving, Christ-centered and fragrant follower.  

I highly recommend this book and will refer to often. I read it as a devotional, but it would be wonderful for a woman's Bible study book as well.This was a wonderful tool for sharing with a non-believer as well - the perfect pairing with a bottle of perfume for your mother, sister, friend's birthday. I hope to read more from Miss Robin T. Smith.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author. 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.” 

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

A Love Story: How God Pursued Me and Found Me by Samantha Ryan Chandler

This title is currently being reviewed. Please check back soon. For a sneak peek please visit Samantha Ryan Chandler's website http://www.samantharyanchandler.com/Samantha_Ryan_Chandler/Home.html

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author for review. 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.”

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com/.

Shadow in Serenity by Terri Blackstock

Shadow in Serenity by Terri Blackstock can be described in one word. Amazing! Usually I do not end up speechless when describing a book.

As I was introduced and the characters became familiar to me, I felt like I was watching a movie. A sign of a really good read is forgetting you are holding a book in your living room. In this book, I was literally transformed into the town of Serenity. I admired Carny and appreciated her spunkiness. Her story inspired me and I saw her as the "good guy" amongst a sea of naive residents.

I related to the author's weaving the gullible characters and their reasoning against the wisdom and streets smarts that Carny had learned in her childhood. Her son was precious and I admired her faithfulness to giving her son a godly upbringing.

This love story was told in such a way that was not preachy to the reader. I do believe this book  would appeal to a nonbeliever as well. The salvation message was presented in a gentle way. Carny stuck to the Bible in the way she handled each situation. I was allowed many glimpses into her human frailty. The contrast of her hardness combined with her vulnerability to love was a pleasure to behold!

I would do cartwheels if  a sequel to this wonderfully woven story was made. I recommend Shadow in Serenity unreservedly to anyone seeking to escape for awhile while going nowhere but your living room. You will experience serenity in a whole new way!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Shelton Interactive as part of their 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.” Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christna@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Nephilim by Renee Pawlish

 

This book is currently being reviewed.  

 Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author. 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.”

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Starting a Micro Business by Carol Topp

I enjoyed Starting a Micro Business - from the Micro Business for Teens book series. The book was informative and no doubt a godsend to teens and mothers and fathers of teens as it was a great tool to get a teen started in a business of any kind.

In the Introduction the author Carol Topp explained the reason she wrote the book, "This book is geared toward teenagers and their lives. There are no unrealistic expectations of opening a restaurant. There are ideas of businesses that real teenagers have started and run successfully. I provide a lot of examples of teenagers I know personally. I walk you through some very important topics such as making a plan and avoiding debt. That's how this book is different!"

The author is a CPA thus she has the knowledge and ability to offer her readers practical advice about becoming a micro business owner. I found the definition of a micro business as opposed to an entrepreneurship interesting. The Micro Businesses Are Popular statistics (page 13) was quite surprising.

Examples of teens running micro businesses inspired me to be better focused on my own micro business (which I had not referred to as such until reading this book)! I need to get Dave's phone number (page 31) as I could also use a bit of help with my iTunes/Ipod Smart List. Examples of micro businesses a teen can pursue were very  helpful. I appreciated http://www.1and1.com/, http://www.badomelet.com/, http://www.websitetips.com/ and so many more.

The Business Plan charts presented a treasure chest of guidance for a person of any age to utilize when planning to start a business. So many businesses fail for lack of planning. This non-intimidating resource was so helpful in considering the foundation for a business of any size. Thedown to earth format allowed me to realize planning a micro business for a teen may be easier than anticipated.

I appreciated Scripture verses along with secular sayings. The subtle backdrop was the Bible and also the author repeatedly reminded the teen to speak with his/her parents about what they learned from reading the book. Ms. Topp's offer of accounting advice if the reader did not yet have an accountant made me smile. She came alongside her reader throughout the book with encouragement and promoted a "can do" mantra.

Finally a book available for teens somewhere in between a lemonade stand and a storefront. No doubt the entire series will be a welcome resource if it also teaches, exhorts and encourages youth as did Starting a Micro Business. Every teen parent would benefit from reading Starting a Micro Business. I enjoyed it immensely and hope to read more of the Micro Business for Teens book series soon.

Don't let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity. 1 Timothy 4:12

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Kathy Carlton Willis Communications as part of their 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.”

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Night by Elie Wiesel

Recently, I pulled this book off the shelf in a lending library by the sea. I assumed it would be a memorable read. How I underestimated the impact this book would have on me!

At the time I stuffed this paperback in my beach bag and headed for the sun, I had no intentions of writing a book review for this title. However, some books contain true stories that need to be shared. This author's work must be talked about and often - Lest We Forget....

I reviewed this book with an open mind, however, as I am firstly a reviewer of Christian non-fiction, I did seek a faith element. I did find a faith element weaved throughout.

Page 19 posed a question of which I may never receive an answer. The author's family is being led from their home by German policemen. I quote, "My father was crying. It was the first time I saw him cry. I had never thought it possible. As for my mother, she was walking, her face a mask, without a word, deep in thought. I looked at my little sister, Tzipora, her blond hair neatly combed, her red coat over her arm: a little girl of seven. On her back, a bag too heavy for her. She was clenching her teeth; she already knew it was useless to complain. Here and there, the police were lashing out with their clubs: "Faster!" I had no strength left. The journey had just begun and I already felt so weak..."

If you saw Schindler's List, (if not, you will only need to watch this DVD once to understand) you will no doubt remember seeing the little girl in the red coat. Since this movie was presented in gray scale and sepia tones throughout, this splash of color quite hard to miss and so very tragic - the constrast of joy (red versus death (gray, black and sepia tones). I wondered if possibly this account was woven into Schindler's List which is a true account. Elie never saw his sister or his mother again soon after page 19.

There is a character Moishe the Beadle who miraculously is taken away and returns. He is a sort of town crier or prophet who warns of the impending evil soon to descend on the town. However, because of his eccentric behavior and dabbling in Kabbalah (the town is mostly Jewish) the people ignore him. In the opening act of Night the author is intrigued with the diversity of this man's spiritual views.

However, Mr. Wiesel does a quick turn away from Kabbalah back toward the God of the Bible in page 20. Page 33 brings with anger at God. I have no judgement but compassion for the author's faith journey in this amazing work. Truly, I do not know how anyone could come away from this horribly evil, cruel, tortuous dark world with their sanity intact let alone not spend even one hour thinking God forgot about them or did not care. And so I truly appreciated the honest account of his turning from God, questioning God for being treated so horrifically and then his returning to the Lord for the sole reason that he had survived.

Page 45 he states, "Some of the men spoke of God: His mysterious ways, the sins of the Jewish people, and the redemption to come. As for me, I had ceased to pray. I concurred with Job! I was not denying His existence, but I doubted His absolute justice."

"Those were the first human words." You must read this chapter beginning on page 29. You would understand this short sentence better than I or anyone else could ever hope to explain. Utterly devoid of humanity these victims of evil were treated. Mr. Wiesel blessed me as he shared the hard-to-hear treatment of people who did nothing wrong but be of Jewish lineage.

Yes, I cried often as I read this book. I paused briefly to grab a box of tissues then continued reading of the French woman who had befriended the author and then an unexpected reunion in Paris many years later. That encounter was one of the rays of sunshine in an otherwise black hole.

Whole paragraphs on pages 65, 67 and 69 jumped off the pages and praised God. I rejoiced as father and son stayed together until almost the very end. Amazing to me was the love of the father and the unwillingness to die though the father was suffering so long. Humanity was displayed in its not-so-lovely way on the part of Mr. Wiesel. I appreciated his confessions and his unabashedly explaining how hunger and cold turned his heart into that of a survivor and less of a human. I cried again on page 75 when the spoon his "dying" father wanted to give Elie almost became Elie's entire inheritance.

Akiba Drumer, a father in search of his entire family I will never forget. His story was so sad. He had such hope and then like a mist, was soon gone.

Again, the faith element on pages 80-81. I quote, "My faceless neighbor spoke up: "Don't be deluded. Hitler has made it clear that he will annihilate all Jews before the clock strikes twelve." I exploded: "What do you care what he said? Would you want us to consider him a prophet? His cold eyes stared at me. At last he said wearily: I have more faith in Hitler than anyone else. He alone has kept his promises, all his promises, to the Jewish people."

Powerful. Such powerful words.

Nearing the end of Night,  another account of a father and son, becoming separated stuck with me.The author again shares his observance and views from being personally a part of this scene. The author does such an excellent job of helping you to be there in Auschwitz with him. Painfully so but still sharing some of the emotions he no doubt felt and still feels today helped me to have an inkling of what the concentration camps must have felt like.

You must read the foreword as well as The Nobel Peace Prize Acceptance Speech in the back of the book. You will better understand the reason why though this book was already written and circulated forty-five years, his wife translated it again - this time into English as her English was much better than her husband's English. His challenge in his own words, "But how was one to rehabilitate and transform words betrayed and perverted by the enemy? Hunger-thirst-fear-transport-selection-fire-chimney: these words all have intrinsic meaning, but in those times, they meant something else. Writing in my mother tongue-at that point close to extinction-I would pause at every sentence, and start over and over again."

War declared on God's chosen. I disagree with Elie Wiesel. His survival to share his story was truly a miracle. His suffering not in vain as we will never forget that plotting genocide begins in the heart of a monster and is carried out by many who deceptively become vessels for evil.

Not surprising was Elie Wiesel's dedication, "In memory of my parents and of my little sister, Tzipora." His story translated so that that little girl in the red coat and so many others will not be forgotten.

The truth of Night retold - - Lest we Forget...

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free on loan from Ocean Village Library in Hutchinson Island Florida. 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.”

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com/.

Turn Your Business Card into Business by Reno Lovison

This business book of big business card ideas began with the author's first run at entrepreneurship. In the Preface Mr. Reno Lovison described his childhood profit-making Kool-Aid stand. He was merely a post kindergartner, a pre-first grader! I found his account to be not only humorous, endearing but inspiring as well.

His personal sharing was truly a celebration of the capitalistic society that we enjoy in America. Capitalism does work and kudos to Mr. Lovison for taking the time to nail this fact in place from the very start of the book.

Page Three hit me hard, "First of all it is very helpful if you understand how marketing is different than advertising. The main thing to remember is that advertising is a part of marketing." As I continued reading I realized a very important fact that I had never understood. In understanding the interplay, one can effectively incorporate their business card as a mega money saving tool to not only get business but save $$ (advertising is expensive!).

A challenge using an impressive formula was to give out 1,000 business cards per year which broken down amounts to 21 cards per week. The author shared the idea of putting the cards in a business card folder each week and by the following Monday all the cards should be gone. Repeat.

Good ideas came in two's, three's and four's. I loved the fishbowl ideas. How many of us haven't seen that big old fish bowl sitting on the table at boat shows, corporate seminars, home shows, etc.? In Turn Your Business Card into Business the author shared ideas I had never seen before. Great ideas!

You must check out the Wingman Strategy on page 23! Here are five ideas of how to get your business card to travel far and wide with little effort on your part: 1. Include your business card in the envelope with your bills 2. Leave under a tip when you dine 3. Wherever you vacation, leave your card wherever and whenever you can 4. Throw your cards in the air every time you sell a car (if you are a car salesman) - have to read the book 5. Any service occasion such as a wedding photographer - place your business cards on the table and as guests arrive they will not only know who you are, but can pick up your card on the way out.

I enjoyed reading Turn Your Business Card into Business. I gleaned so much from the author's instruction on communication, planting seeds that will grow, image development, increasing word-of-mouth business and so much more. The author's encouraging writing style was inspiring and friendly.

I learned much and will put into practice all the tips, tricks and good practices....starting Monday. There will be no time to waste as I have 21 business cards to hand out. It will be easy though because handing out business cards does not have to be intimidating, aggressive or awkward. It is easy when you realize planting seeds is the key. One day at a time. One business card at a time leads to one new customer. Before you know it, your seeds will bring forth a fruitful business endeavor.

Buy this book today - before buying new business cards!

Visit the author's website http://www.businesscardtobusiness.com/ to buy this book and for more helpful hints on business card success.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free for book review. 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.”

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com/.

The Me Project by Kathi Lipp

This book is currently being reviewed. Please check back soon for review.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Kathy Carlton Willis Communications as part of their 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.”

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Words At Work by Lynda McDaniel

Words at Work is so much more than the writing "how to" that you dive into then try to apply. This book is written from Ms. McDaniel's heart. I believe this book will enable every reader to be a better writer.

The author shared some of her trials and tribulations over her 25 year career as a professional writer as well as five years as a business writing coach. It felt to me as if she was coming alongside me and encouraging me to realize that in any situation I could make my words powerful tools of communication!

Her writing style was conversational, encouraging and anything but preachy or ornery editor (insider term from Words At Work). She stated a mantra I applaud. I quote, "When I started writing, I wish someone had shared these ideas with me: 1. Everyone can learn to write well. 2. Bad writers just stopped too soon."

Independent Review: A Woman and her Workplace by Rosemary Flaaten

This book by author Rosemary Flaaten was directed toward those who desire to build relational bridges in life. Targeted toward those in the workplace primarily, but the Scripture supported principles presented can be applied in any situation in life.

Scripture in TM version is presented throughout. I don't often refer to this Bible translation however I enjoyed reading this version as it definitely fit the conversational tone of the book. At first, I was slightly disappointed to read the author's tense of "we". I have struggled with past reviews as I was not drawn in to the author's supporting statements or illustrations because of the awkwardness of "we" or "us".

However, the third person tense actually became a very effective tool in building a relational bridge with me - the reader! Ms. Flaaten had a warm, comfortable, professional yet non-threatening way of relating to her reader. I enjoyed the use of various characters or case studies of women in situations. I laughed, cried and yes - - I could have been Melanie! (page 51).

The invitation to Salvation was given promptly on page 24. Possibly more of an emphasis could have been placed on sin with regard to salvation, but I give kudos to the author for including the salvation message to her reader. I applauded as I read that Jesus Christ on the Cross was the ultimate relational bridge. Amen!

A tool which was quite effective for deeper pondering of the truths presented was "Verses to Study", and "Questions for Reflection."

I appreciated many nuggets of wisdom. On page 47 the author states, "Honesty is living truthfully, and authenticity is being genuine, but integrity includes and goes beyond both of these." She goes on to explain the origin of the word integrity and quotes Henry Cloud from his book Integrity. Love it! As a lover of words and truths supporting wholeness I really appreciated her attention to detail with regard to certain character traits we must pay attention to as true believers in Christ.

Here's another gem found on page 73. (James 2:2-4 TM version is quoted) The author, "In order to develop a connection, we need to build bridges. When we look for the best in others, listen, learn, empathize, love and extend grace, we build relational bridges that can prove to be a lifeline between us. To care for someone, we must let go of the preconceived notions and relinquish our expectations of that person. To care for someone, we must acknowledge his or her present situation and give the gift of grace and acceptance, realizing that what we see is but a very narrow sliver or all that makes up that person. Godly love takes what is presented and seeks to explore and discover more about this person so he or she can be celebrated, not judged. Godly love extends grace."

My favorite story was found on page 79. Ms. Flaaten shares a personal story of people watching. She self talks and it gets ugly but so very relatable!! I learned alot about myself reading her account. I hope I will be convicted quicker when I start being critical of others after reading this chapter.

Lastly, the story on page 123 stuck out to me. Humorous and relatable. I did question the use of the "brown paper bag" as the wrapper the book came in. I felt the book was being depicted almost as a bottle of liquor - something to hide from watching eyes? Somehow the emphasis on the brown paper bag seemed awkward. I would rather her stuff the book in her purse as the book was not a bad thing in itself - this poor woman was seeking help in the situation with her boss.

I enjoyed reviewing this book. I almost regretted not being in a corporate setting where I could share it with other women possibly during a break or lunch hour. A Woman and Her Workplace would be perfect for a small group of women to read at home and discuss the Scripture and questions in every chapter at work. There were many takeaways and reminders for women in the workplace and working at home. The concept of relational bridges and the story of Esther stuck like glue. I will never think of bridges or Esther the same again.

This book reminded me that 24/7/365 no matter before or after punching a time card - I like Esther must seek to build healthy relationships with others. I have a job to do. I will do it with the help of the Lord Jesus Christ. I will do it with the strong biblical principles that under gird every bridge in life.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Kathy Carlton Willis Communications as part of their Beacon Hill Press of Kansas City 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.”

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable.

Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com/.

Independent Book Review: Held By God: Finding Hope by Recognizing His Provision in the Midst of Suffering by Lori Phillips and Lynn Willers

Held By God is an amazing work, penned by two sisters Lynn Willers and Lori Phillips. The dual author's voice lent a warmth to the book - one which I have not come across before. Sisters Lori and Lynn are twins so I should not have been surprised by their united front. However, much more apparent was their shared love for the Lord which was boldly, unabashedly shared throughout this anointed book.

Their passion for coming alongside their reader to comfort and encourage was clear as sisters Lynn and Lori jointly shared not only their trials and tribulations but their faith. Throughout this book the co-authors returned to Being Held By God in any situation. Undoubtedly the content supported the title - the takeaway hope in any circumstance when one enters the valley in the arms of God.

Chapter One ushers in the beautifully shared story which occurred on the walk to school when the girls were six years old.  Lynn cut her hand very badly after dropping a jar that she was bringing for "show and tell." Clearly an angel (possibly Good Samaritan for those less inclined to believe so easily in angels) carries her to a house nearby to get help. The incorporation of Scripture pointing the reader back to God's faithfulness is included in this chapter (as well as all other chapters).

Beginning on page 54 I began to cheer for the sisters! I realized they were educating their readers - no - empowering and encouraging their reader to challenge the western medical establishment. I applauded as the sisters became their own health care advocates when they did not agree fully with their doctor's assessments. The doctor insisting on Lynn having the "pleurodesis treatment" and instead Lynn insisting on speaking to a Thoracic surgeon illustrated the importance of standing firm in all medical situations. Her account is a reminder to us all that we truly are the consumer - customer if you will - even though we may never have realized this role before. We must be Bereans when it comes to the role we play in the health care industry.

I must mention the coffee cup illustration in Chapter Four! Without being a spoiler of course...Danny is the twin's brother. He innocently protects a coffee cup from all harm to find out at the end of the day that his efforts were in vain as what he needed to do was much easier! That story stuck with me as many of the illustrations similar to this one in the book also stuck with me. The tone of Held By God draws you in and you actually feel like you are one of the family. I chuckled along with Lori and Lynn in Chapter Four for sure!

"Why would the Lord bring us all the way out here, just to have this doctor's door slammed shut so abruptly? In retrospect, this was one of those moments that would have made us laugh had we seen it from God's perspective. When God opens a door, sometimes he doesn't want us to just walk through the door. Sometimes He wants us to walk through, turn right, and then go down the hallway." (page 98)

Relatable? Yes. This book asks many "Why?" questions the reader can relate to - but the word "Why?" does not end with a question mark. Before the ink is dry on the 'y" the sisters often give a Scripture verse. God is held high in this book. The authors come alongside their readers (many of whom no doubt are also suffering physically and hurting emotionally) to share their story and explain how asking "Why?" and remaining in the questioning phase of "Why?" too long won't help the situation at all. Only surrendering to God and letting Him endure the pain with you is the answer and is the theme throughout.

I enjoyed hearing the seasons of Women of Faith Conferences and how each topic ministered to the girls right where they were in their healing journeys. Especially the last conference mentioned touched my heart because the girls attended albeit their Mom was not with them that year.

One of my favorite mentions of servant hood in the book was on page 130. I quote, "During those times, we learned alot about sacrificial giving. Caring for someone with cancer is hard. It is messy, and it is heart wrenching. However, it gives us the opportunity to be like Christ and really show people how much we love them. Sacrificial love is when we place ourselves in situations that take us way out of our comfort zones. During those months with Mom, we realized a truth. We don't show our love for someone by doing something that is easy for us to do or doesn't take much effort on our part. We show our love for them by doing the things that are difficult or hard for us to do. That is when we are most like Christ." Amen and Amen sisters!

I found myself weeping unexpectedly in many chapters. Especially in Chapter Seven Silver Linings in a Dark Cloud I could not read the words before me because the tears were in the way. My head ached from crying but then the pain of crying passed as I read on...and then silly me was bawling again but this time with tears of joy! How wonderful to experience so much emotion - pain and suffering but hope and happiness on the same page. I cried with Lynn as she listened to "holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty", when the fellow bed mate in the hospital helped her when she couldn't even help herself....and so very many times throughout this very special work.

A Bittersweet Celebration was my most favorite part of the entire book. Needless to say, I called my Mom right away and told her I loved her. I chatted with her about random topics that we both have in common. We laughed together during this phone call because we could. I thought I heard her sadness when I said Goodbye. I was reminded of Lynn and Lori's mention of their sadness in not being able to call their Mom as they used to do without hesitation. Unlike Lynn and Lori's Mom, my own does not know the Lord (Romans 10:9-11).

However, the fact that this book's final pages presented the Gospel - just one more time was not lost on me. For this book truly glorifies the Lord and is for everyone - no matter who you are or what you are facing. The medical condition CPT may have been the reason for the book being written at first, but clearly the sisters have allowed the Lord to take this topic and use it as a springboard for a relationship with Christ. For that reason, though I do not suffer with CPT or lost a parent to disease I will share this book with one who does not know Christ and as a result - though they may or may not suffer - no matter what they will never again be without hope. For to be Held By God truly begins with surrender.

Thank you Lynn and Lori for this amazingly hopeful, informative, enjoyable warm and comforting work. Many will be ministered to as a result. This book is anointed.

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. 2 Corinthians 1:3&4

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author as part of their request for an independent review. 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.”

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.