I shouldn't be writing this. No, like I really shouldn't. I should be writing my paper before class tonight. But you know when you're just not in the mood to write a paper, so you're procrastinating by watching YouTube, and researching the upcoming book of an Instagrammer you follow, and wondering when those books you ordered last week will get here so you can film your October haul, and then you just decide to blow it all off and write a blog post? Yeah, that's how I'm feeling.
So, I'm not sure where this post is going right now. I have some photos to share with you from my trip to Chicago last month, but that would require standing up to get my external hard drive where they're currently stored. Same with my attendance at the Night Vale book signing. Oooh so let's talk Twilight!
It's been a while since Twilight has been mentioned on this blog, since all the books and movies have been out for years. That is, until earlier this month. Because Stephenie Meyer somehow hid from the entire world that she had written a new Twilight book.
I'm still not over this. How did no one spill??
On the morning of October 6th 2015 (aka the greatest day for book releases and book news in the history of ever), the tenth anniversary special edition of Twilight was released, and with it a new story. Well, the exact same story but with reversed genders. The book world went nuts. I was in bed when I saw it online and, after checking multiple sources to make sure it wasn't a joke and the B&N website to make sure they had it in stock, I immediately restructured my day to go buy it. I may have blown off a few minor responsibilities that morning. But the day ended with I my hands on the new Twilight book and this video, that I think gives you a small glimpse at how excited I was:
To say I was excited was an understatement. I didn't realize my love for Twilight still ran so deep until it was announced that there was a new book. I had to have it right then, and once it was finally mine, I did little else but read that book until it was finished. And I loved it. It's like a fan fiction, but better than fan fiction because the original author wrote it and approves of this imagining! I did a full review in this video:
But suffice it to say, that while this is not Midnight Sun (maybe for the 11th anniversary edition? Whaddya say, Stephenie?), it was still a very pleasant surprise. Is it a completely new book? Definitely not. But is it a fun twist on an old favorite? Absolutely. Go in expecting that and I think you'll enjoy it too.
Also, I just have to say, in my opinion....Beau > Bella. Sorry not sorry.
I wanted to like this book. I really did. That title? AWESOME. But the content? Not so much.
Well, I take that back. The content was okay, but it didn't match the title. Ignoring the abundance of imagery and flowery language (not my style, but it works for some people), the book title and chapter titles didn't fit with what was discussed. I feel a better title would be "Own Your Faith". The author's answer to pretty much every problem mentioned in the book was "pray, read your Bible, and have more faith", nothing tactile, no practical steps to even improve those areas. I was also put off by the number of times the author mentioned all the books and conferences her ministry had produced, bringing up the same stories over and over.
I know a lot of women are loving this book, but it missed the mark for me. It wasn't what I expected, and not in the good way. It also frustrated me that like many other Christian books for women, it's assumed that all women are mothers and wives. I skipped the last two chapters because they were solely about marriage and motherhood. Truthfully, the only reason I finished this one was because I had requested it to review. There were just odd little moments in this book that didn't do it for me.
The reason it gets two stars from me is because it is a decent book...for someone else. For a different purpose. There were a few statements early in the book that I enjoyed and underlined, but then it fell flat.
2/5 Stars
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this book! Such a fun and delightfully awkward debut Regency romance!
Summary:
Miranda is born and raised aristocracy. Her father was a duke, a title her brother now holds, which brings certain responsibilities for Miranda's behavior. She has always chaffed at the Lady Rules laid out for her and has spilled her thoughts and emotions into letters to one of her brothers adventurous schoolmates. She never sends them, of course, but getting everything onto paper makes her feel better. One day during her fourth season in society, her brothers handsome new valet accidentally finds and mails one of the letters. Miranda's mortification is lessened slightly when she actually receives a letter in response! She sons finds herself developing feelings for both men, despite the obvious inappropriateness of both relationships. To complicate matters, a kidnapping and national traitor are linked to her home, putting more than her heart on the line.
Review:
I loved this book. Such an enjoyable summer read! Miranda and her awkwardness are so relatable my stomach was in knots for most of the book. I felt her embarrassment through so many moments. Like when one of the men she finds attractive accidentally punches her in the face. Or when she flings a plate of food around the entire dining room.
Ryland is just the SWEETEST. While also being the most frustrating. All the secrets and misdirections the first few times they met had me so anxious! But the way he cared so much for Miranda just as she was, even in her least ladylike moments, was just so sweet. It wasn't so much that he looked past her flaws and still loved her, as he saw her flaws and loved her because of them.
I can't wait to read more of this series! I had so much fun with this one. A Noble Masquerade is available in September through Bethany House.
4/5 Stars
Recommended.
I received this book form the publisher through LibraryThing's Early Reviewer program in exchange for an honest review.
First: It was amazing. Second: No, seriously, this book is SO. GOOD. Bold capitalized italics good. I read the entire book (600 pages) in a day. The more I think about it, the more I love it. The easiest 5-star book of the year for me.
I'm going to do this with as few spoilers as possible, but not sure I can contain the gushing, so you'll just have to deal. I'll put headings if you want to just read my opinions on certain parts. This review might be a bit long. But you should read it so you can get excited for this book.
PLOT: In the briefest, least spoilery terms, Illuminae is the first book in a new YA sci-fi trilogy that follows a group of intergalactic refugees fleeing their planet after it has been attacked by the largest mining conglomerate in the 'verse. While on board their rescue ships, they face constant threat from enemy ships, a lethal plague from bioweapons, malfunctioning AI, and forced military service. Oh, and there's some sappy awkward romance.
DESIGN: I knew nothing going into this book. I had snagged copy at BookCon, and the amazing cover and design of the whole book (even as an ARC) made me want to read it, even knowing nothing. You can see a glimpse of the cover(s) here. Essentially, the hard cover is a white background covered with text: some scribbled, some highlighted, some blacked out. Most lines are pulled straight from the book, while some on the back are actually regular back copy blurb (I didn't realize this until I sat down to read it, and even then there was so much random text I just dove into the book instead). Over this hard cover there's an acetate slipcover that blocks most of those words while highlighting others. And the book is praised by Marie Lu and Laini Taylor on the slipcover!
A quick flip through the book shows that this isn't your average book. There are white pages and black pages. Pages with photos made completely of words, diagrams of spaceships, and all different fonts and typography tricks. And all cursing is blacked out because "sure, the story kicks off with the deaths of thousands of people, but god forbid there be cussing in it, right?" (pg 1).
This book is a visual playground in black and white.
WRITING: You hold in your hands a 600 page file containing all the pertinent investigational documents for the Kerenza incident: medical records, pilot reports, security footage transcripts, hacked IMs and emails, AI "thought" records, diagrams, etc. The story is pieced together with these mostly official documents, woven together by the Illuminae group, who were kind enough to clip in a few notes. They all work together to complete an intriguing story that twists and turns the whole way until you, the reader, are left at the end breathless, talking to the story, wondering how two humans invented this brilliant book.
CHARACTERS: I love the characters in this book. Kady is such a regular, amazing, kick ass girl. She is terrified most of the book- breaking down in corners, crying in spacesuits- but she pulls herself up, uses her unique skills, and does what needs to be done, willing to sacrifice herself for the others on the ship. Her transformation throughout the book is so inspiring, and I can't wait to see her continue to grow in the rest of the series.
Ezra is such a geeky poet and I love him. I hope we get more from him in the rest of the series. And his friends, they added some great humor and realness to the book. Then we have AIDEN. I can't begin to tell you my feelings about AIDEN. No, seriously, I can't tell you without spoiling everything. "Am I not merciful?"
I really appreciated the strong female characters throughout the book with leadership roles. Its a shame that its a surprise, but most of the leadership positions in the book were held by women and it was great.
SUMMARY: Basically, I loved this book. The plot, the style, the characters, the world- I love it all! It was just so well done and so interesting. I liked going into this one not knowing anything. And if you read my plot heading and thought it wasn't your thing, you should still give this book a chance. Had I read the blurb, I may not have read it, either. But the way it's written is unlike anything else I've read and totally worth the ride. This book is going to be big. And I would be shocked if it doesn't become the next big YA book to movie adaptation franchise. It would play out so well on screen.
Unfortunately, this book doesn't come out until October 20th. Sorry. But the pre-sale price on Amazon can't be beat! Less than $10 for the hardcover, and TRUST ME, you want the hardcover, not the ebook. There's also a pretty awesome website that you should check out. New content is posted on the 20th of each month leading up to the release. Also, keep an eye on my YouTube channel where I'll post a book talk video about this book closer to it's release.
5/5 stars
HIGHLY recommended.
I received this book from the publisher at BookCon under no obligation.
18-year-old Madeline is allergic to everything. From the back cover: "My disease is as rare as it is famous. Basically, I'm allergic to the world. I don't leave my house, have not left my house in seventeen years. The only people I ever see are my mom and nurse, Carla." But then one day, a new family moves in next door, with a boy dressed in all black, and nothing is ever the same.
I really enjoyed this book. A lot. It was sweet and silly and lovely. The themes of first love and not wasting your life are beautifully woven throughout the story. Nicola Yoon's first novel addresses heavy topics like abuse and chronic illness in a way that is light while not discounting the severity of these issues.
While the novel and actual writing was enjoyable, the sketches and notebook-style entries made this book fantastic. They don't simply illustrate what the book is saying, but they continue the story in a unique way. For example, we don't simply hear Madeline telling us she wants to kiss Olly. We get a three page "Kissing Primer" (and let's not lie, what girl hasn't thought about all the steps that lead up to kissing?)
The characters of Madeline and Carla were well developed and relatable, but I'm split on Olly. I liked what we saw of him, but he felt kind of one-dimensional or superficial. We heard about the issues he faced and things he liked, but he seemed to only exist for Maddy and doing things with her.
The plot twist = genius. Loved it! But I wish we had a little bit more after. It felt like we had the twist, then some angst, and suddenly the book was over. I wish we had just a little more resolution, especially with Dr. Whittier.
But as a whole, I loved this book and you should read it. But you can't yet, unless you have an ARC. Everything Everything is on sale September 1, 2015. But once it comes out, you should definitely read it. Especially if you're a Rainbow Rowell fan, because it had a similar feel to it (and really, who's not a Rainbow fan these days?).
Also, there is a Tumblr set up for this book! There's not much there right now, but it looks like it will be a lot of fun when they get it going!
Want to hear more about my thoughts on this book? Check out my BookTalk here!
4.5/5 stars
Recommended
I received this book from First in Line at BookCon 2015 under no obligation for a positive review.
I have another friend with their first book out! I love reviewing books, but I especially love it when I know the author!
When Pastor Ryan first told me he was writing a book and it's theme, I expected something theologic and academic. I don't know why. He's a pretty cool and down-to-earth guy, and is also very smart, so I don't know. This book is anything but stuffy academic. Millennial Gospel is a call to action for all believers in today's world to reach the lost of the Millennial Generation (the generation born around the turn of the millennium) and written to connect with everyone.
One of my favorite parts of this book is the first section, which breaks down the most common damaging cliches we use in the church today and offers healthy alternatives. Things like "God just wants you to be happy" and "...because the Bible says so". Those little things that just slip out of so many Christian mouths that have no basis in Scripture, or are simply cop outs to giving an actual answer that will help people.
Pastor Ryan goes on to outline why the Millennial generation is so different than previous generations, and how that impacts their view of God and the church. Rather than simply painting a bleak picture, the book tells us how to connect with this generation as individual Christians and as the Church. All of this is done in a friendly, conversational manner that is as inspiring as it is convicting.
Every Christian should read this book and put it's principles to action in their lives. The points made in this book are not only applicable to reaching the Millennial Generation, but anyone living in today's world. It's a different era and the old methods just don't work anymore. What will work is relationships fueled with honesty and openness.
4/5 Stars, Recommended. Available to purchase here.
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
When it comes to financial books, in my mind, Dave Ramsey is the untouchable guru, Casey Lewis is the personal/relatable mentor, and Camilla Kragius is the neighbor who's been-there-done-that and wants to share how with you. While a lot of financial books are full of facts and stats, HTGOODLPTP is more conversational and encouraging.
This book is a very quick read. The short chapters give you the down and dirty details of how to become debt free, save for the future, and live your life. The first chapter, which also happens to be the longest, walks you step by step through creating (and sticking with!) a budget- even if you live paycheck to irregular paycheck.
One thing I really appreciated was Camilla's acknowledgement that you have to actually live while getting out of debt, even if that means not following her plan to the t so you can have a little fun. Instead, she stresses the importance of balance, even though it goes against the conventional advice from most gurus.
Along with the book, I also got to review the companion course: Financial Freedom. I LOVED this course. If you're going to buy the book, spend the extra money and go for the whole course- and you get the book included!
In 27 lessons, Camilla walks you through all the principles in her book so you come out with a complete and personalized financial plan. It further explains some parts of the book that can get confusing, and even gives you rest days so you don't get too overwhelmed! I'd estimate that the lessons take anywhere from 15-60 minutes, depending on your debt, work-ethic, and math skills ;)
As a whole, I think I may have liked the course more than the actual book, if that's possible? The book had some parts that seemed a little jumbled and required me to read a few times to understand, but overall was a good start for people beginning their financial journey. The book gets 3 stars from me. The course, however, gets 5 stars, as the walkthroughs and narratives were fantastic and easy to follow.
So as a whole package, this product gets 4/5 stars. I'd recommend it for anyone who needs a step-by-step walkthrough to start their budget and financial life.
I received access to this course from the author in exchange for a review. Update: Camilla has generously offered a discount to readers of AspiringAshley! Use the coupon code "Ashley" to receive the course for only $10! What a great start to becoming debt free. Thanks Camilla!
I usually use stock photos of book covers for my reviews, but look at the cute certificate that came with this book (adorable old dog just for because he's asleep on me)! You can find the book here.
Okay, on with the review.
Some people label Candice as being "on the spectrum", but she just knows she's different. She takes things literally, she's caused her pet fish to have a religious crisis, and her best friend is from another dimension (maybe). On top of all that, her family is falling apart and she's the only one who can save it. Well, with a little help from her dad's estranged brother, Rich Uncle Brian.
I don't usually go for middle reader books (I didn't realize that's what it was when I requested it), but I really enjoyed this one! Jonsberg has written a witty kids book featuring a lovable, quirky character that's a little out there, but still relatable. It was an entertaining read as an adult, and I definitely would've felt the same as a kid! Go ahead and pick this one up.
3/5 Stars
Recommended.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for a review.
I really enjoyed this book, and read the whole thing in one day of flights and airports. Casey Lewis draws on his personal experience to demonstrate what a healthy financial plan can do for even the most dire circumstances. He lays out a step-by-step process to get you in financial shape, no matter where you are in the journey, making it easy to get your money in order. More importantly, he makes a case for why you should get it in order.
This might get me in trouble with the FPU crowd, but I like Lewis' book more than Dave Ramsey's (if I get trampled by a gazelle or run over by a snowball, you all know why). Why can I say that? They share pretty much the same information and have a similar plan, but Lewis is very relatable in his writing style, it's quick to read and implement, and he makes it really easy to understand how to handle your money in a wise and responsible way.
If you're looking to get your money in order to have a healthy financial future, you need to read this. As grateful as I am for Ramsey's resources helping me get started on my own financial journey, Lewis' Impact is the book I'll be recommending more often than other financial books.
Highly Recommended, 5/5 Stars I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Acceleration is a down and dirty, no-nonsense book about getting things done quickly and efficiently, providing you with maximum impact and influence.
In his first book, Matoga explains how to succeed in business and ministry using his nine time-tested Principles of Acceleration. These simple principles are explored through each chapter with a blend of business acumen, common sense, and Biblical standards in a simple but powerful way.
This book is an easy read packed with information to help you excel, and organized in an easy-to-reference format. You can easily pick it up anytime to get a quick refresher of whatever material you want. While several of the principles in the book have been stated before, Matoga uses his unique voice and outlook to make them pop, and strings them together to create a fool-proof attack plan for success.
If you're a leader in business or ministry, check out this quick primer to accelerated success.
Recommended, 4/5 stars.
This book is not yet released. I will post the link here when it is available.
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Christians are called to serve "the least of these", but what does that really look like? What does it mean to be a follower of Christ, and not just a believer in Christ? Nowell outlines this kind of life with a mix of personal stories, statistics, and scripture analysis to stir readers into action. Using his experience with street kids in Brazil, Nowell has a clear vision of what loving the orphan, widow, and prisoner actually means, and he does a good job or clarifying this call for the reader.
Dirty Faith is the latest release in the Christian social justice explosion, and I put it on par with David Platt's Radical. The message isn't radical or new; it's the foundation of a biblical Christian lifestyle. But in today's culture of self-centered faith and easy sacrifice, it's an important starting point for anyone looking to get back to New Testament Christianity. For those already involved in serving the least, this book will not present anything new, but will confirm what you're working for. I'd recommended for anyone wanting to make a difference and not sure where to start, for anyone who feels like something is missing from their Christian walk.
3/5 Stars, Recommended.
I received this book from the publisher through LibraryThing's Early Reviewer program in exchange for an honest review.
This is, at first glance, your typical dystopian novel: the world's gone to hell so now it's up to a few nobodies to lead a rebellion and save it. In this book, the nobodies don't even have names, just numbers or words given in place of names when they passed their exams.
The premise of this story is interesting. The concept of the arts being forbidden and becoming the tools of rebellion is beautiful. The more-than-human overlords and the standardized testing that determines your fate is perfect dystopian story fodder. The idea of heroes who are broken and deadly is what makes for pop culture win. The story itself is attractive (if you get rid of that random, unnecessary incest). However, the things that make this book unique are the same things that ruin it for me: it's written in unrhymed prose from the points of view of seven main characters.
The writing style or the switching characters alone could have been very intriguing. Telling the story from several perspectives then bringing them all together sounds fantastic. But the combination of these two techniques, and the execution made for a difficult and confusing read. Just when we'd start getting to know a character, start to see behind their facade, it would switch to someone else. We would never get to really know the characters very well at all. I felt like the main character, Author, is the one we know the least, and much of the book is from her perspective!
It was very hard to keep everything straight in my head. I'm not stupid, but there were many things I didn't get until I read the time line after. Which is another thing. If you require a character guide at the start, and a time line at the end (which sums up what the entire book spelled out), your story might be too complicated.
I hate to give negative reviews, especially when there's so much potential in the story, but I cannot recommend this book. It was too confusing and jumbled.
Not Recommended, 1/5 Stars
I received this book from the publisher through LibraryThing's Early Reviewer program in exchange for an honest review.
I really loved this book! It made me think- stop in my tracks, reread, and chew on pieces of it. Pastor Jon takes a fresh look at the book of Acts and the lives of the early Christians, then compares it to how today's Christians are perceived. While the first Christians were known as the ones who "turned the world upside down," Storment proposes that their modern counterparts are more frequently seen as seeking to maintain the status quo. His book is a challenge to modern day Christ followers to live like Christ and stop using their faith like it's the Home Shopping Network. To realize the riot-causing power the reality of Jesus' resurrection and ascension holds, and live like we actually believe it.
Storment dives into the atmosphere of the Bible to make sense of a culture we tend to misunderstand in today's world, and presents it in an easy-to-read, easy-to-understand manner. He mixes in enough pop culture references to keep it fun (comparing key players in the early church to Tupac or Yoda? Yes, please!). My one complaints about this book is that Storment has a bad habit of writing a powerful paragraph, then throwing out this silly one liner that distracts and ruins the moment.
You should definitely pick this one up! I have a handful of favorite quotes from this book, but I'll leave you with this one that makes me (and I hope you) think: "Everywhere the early Christians went they started a riot. Everywhere I go they serve tea" (page 28).
Highly Recommended. 5/5 Stars
I received this book from LibraryThing's Early Reviewer program in exchange for an honest review.
Wow! This book was so much more than I expected when I first requested it! Felstead uses this book to chronicle the whys and hows of yoga, focusing on the benefits for runners. She goes in depth with full descriptions and sketches of the anatomy involved with each move. Every aspect of the running/yoga connection is covered, including dealing with injuries and adapting for pain.
Despite being comprehensive and so in-depth, this book is very accessible and easy to understand. Felstead includes several series of yoga poses to accommodate every need and schedule, from 10 minute TV sessions to 90 minute whole-body routines. Every exercise is described in detail through muscle group specific chapters.
This is an amazing resource for any runner or yoga newbie, like me. A great way to relax and enhance your running through a yoga practice. I will definitely be referring to this often.
Recommended. 4/5 Stars.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
How can you help "the least of these" while also relating to them on a personal level? Daniel Ryan Day answered the question with an experiment to get a small taste of what others are going through, while raising money and support for organizations helping others around the globe. The premise: go ten days without something most of us take for granted to raise awareness and support for those who go without it daily. For example, 10 Days Without a Coat to collect warm coats for the homeless, or 10 Days Without Speech to support the anti-trafficking movement.
The book chronicles eight of Day's experiments and what he learned from each. It's a very simple read and makes an excellent starting point for anyone looking to make a difference in the world. As Day alludes, making a difference is not simply a 10 day experiment. Instead, the 10 Days Without concept is a starting point, a way of humbling ourselves and breaking the routine that keeps us only concerned about our own circle. It's an eye-opening experience to make us question the way we live and interact with the people in the world around us.
For those eager to embark on their own 10 Days Without experiment, Day offers suggestions and tips at the end of each chapter, along with resources and organizations worth supporting. His website also features more resources and other experiments worth looking into.
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I also recently participated in my own 10 Days Without challenge, going ten days without technology. It was not easy, but it was eye-opening. You can read some of my thoughts and experiences here.
I would definitely recommend this book to those unsure of where to begin making a difference in the world, and for fans of Jen Hatmaker's book 7.
Recommended, 4/5 Stars.
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Ladies, before you tune out, this isn't just a guys book. It's not about being gentlemen, or holding doors for women, or some romantic spiel. Instead, Zach Hunter's newest book is a call to action urging all young people to develop and live by a code of honor. To live civil and just lives in an unjust world.
Using the knights of old as inspiration, college-student Zach Hunter uses his fourth book to inspire Christians to hold themselves to a standard of conduct higher than the world demands, but one it so desperately needs. He blends personal anecdotes and modern examples with classic philosophers and Scripture to present his case for modern chivalry.
The book includes a section of journalling or discussion prompts and encourages a commitment to chivalrous living with a specific "contract" for each chapter.
Chivalry would be a great book for Christian teens and young adults eager to stand strong in today's culture as they are beginning to form their worldview and strengthen their belief system.
Recommended 3/5 Stars I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
So, to be honest, I don't recall why I requested this book. Truth is, I'm a bit jaded when it comes to purity books. I grew up in the "I Kissed Dating Goodbye" generation. I devoured every purity book that came out in that time (and there were plenty!). I've taken the pledge, worn the ring, been to the conferences, and bought the t-shirts. And as I've grown, I've watched many of my friends (and the authors of those books) get married....by their early 20s.
Now, I have nothing against people getting married in their early 20s. But as I sit here, as single as can be about to turn 27, it annoys me sometimes. I can't tell you how many times I've heard/read someone say, "It was so hard to wait that long! What a struggle!" And then you learn that they were married by 22. Really? Please, tell me again how hard it was to stay pure until you met and married your husband at 19.
At 27, to most of the world, I'm still young. But in Christian circles, it's a usually unspoken belief that anyone not married by 25 is an old maid. Most people won't actually say anything, but you'll get the impression. So going into this book, I was a bit skeptical, to say the least. But then, right in the first chapter, we learn that the author didn't get married til 38. 38! Ladies, we have an actual real-life example here! She knows what it's like to struggle, and she writes for women, not for teens (though teens could certainly read this). Do you know how rare that is in the purity-book world??
Plus, she admits that she ugly-cried all the way down the aisle and quotes Mean Girls, so I knew I could trust what she had to say.
This book is not your average purity book. Most tend to be a mix of the author's love story, religious rules, and a basic message of:
Sex and the Single Girl takes a different angle. Ellis goes beyond rules to the heart of the matter. She makes the case for why we should seek purity and how to fight the lies of the enemy regarding sex. Ellis wages war against a "no-big-deal" culture to lovingly rescue women who have been burned by the world's mentality, and equips them to fight back for their purity and wholeness. She uses her own experiences, the experiences of others, and lots of Scripture to make the case for purity and healing.
This book is so good. The more I thought about it, the more I liked it. What I loved is that much of what she is preaching is applicable to other struggles, not simply sexual sins. Ellis makes the case that purity is impossible on our own, because our nature is sinful. The only way to conquer sexual impurity (or any impurity for that matter) is to be renewed and redeemed. Ellis describes how to get to a place of intimacy with God, and how to stay there. She provides plenty of Scripture passages to help women stand against temptation and is bluntly honest about how to flee it.
I will absolutely be recommending this book to any woman struggling with sexual sin and impurity. Definitely check this one out!
Can you relate to my single-Christian-girl frustrations? Have you read this book? What'd you think?
Highly Recommended
4/5 Stars
I received this book from the published in exchange for an honest review through LibraryThing's Early Reviewer Program.
To be honest, I don't know how I ended up with this book. I mean, it came from LibraryThing, but I don't remember requesting it. And I'm really not into politics, so it's not the type of book I would usually request or read. Setting aside the politics aspect, I read the book, and will not let that interfere with my review.
The book is about Harris forming her own worldview, from being raised in a very conservative home-schooled environment, to working in NYC journalism. Unfortunately, it seems to me that the author is still struggling to find where she stands. The whole book just felt confused and lost. It felt a lot like the diary of someone trying to sort out what they believe, by jumping around to different memories.
Plus, there didn't seem to be a rhyme or reason to the layout of the book. One page she's in college blogging, and the next she's practicing for her home school debate. Then she's suddenly being extra verbose for no apparent reason.
There were a few good lines in the book, but I don't think this would really help anyone sort out their own faith/politics. It's a confusing biography with no real life details. On the plus side, it was a quick and easy read (aside from random time jumps).
Overall, I didn't like this book. It's possible if you enjoy politics that this may interest you more than it did me, but I just don't think this is a good book, subject matter aside.
2/5 stars.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I just finished Visioneering: God's Blueprint for Developing and Maintaining Personal Vision, by Andy Stanley and I am in love with this book! Especially because it fits right in with what my pastor has been teaching over the past few months.
Using the story of Nehemiah, Stanley walks the reader through the process of birthing a vision, from conception to finalized dream. He outlines 20 "Building Blocks" throughout the book, balancing examples from Nehemiah with real-life case studies. Every step of Visioneering is covered in this book, from "Why should I have a vision?" to "Where do I start?" and "How do I stand against these haters" and more. This book is equal parts inspiration and how-to manual. Stanley encourages you to grab hold of the vision for your life and gives you the tools to do so. Each chapter ends with a "Visioneering Project" to put into action the principles of that chapter, processing emotions and practicalities to produce a well-rounded vision.
Whether you have a specific vision already, or you want something more from life, you need to read this book. Especially if you're a fan of books like Jon Acuff's START. Add this to the Christmas list for all Dreamers and Builders in your life!
Highly Recommended
5/5 Stars
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
And today's post is both a book review and a post about The Exodus Road. See, the founders just wrote a book! And it's currently on sale!
Amazing things can happen when ordinary people say yes to a powerful God. Such is the story of Laura and Matt Parker (is it weird that I've been reading about them online for so long I kinda feel like I know them in real life? Anyways.....) In this short book, Laura recounts their journey from average family to abolitionist heroes.
As missionaries in SE Asia, the Parker's come face-to-face with the evils of human trafficking and realize they can't sit silently while children and innocent people are being harmed. But what can two average people do to fight such a dark, overwhelming crime? Through research and God's leading, the Parker's team up with other activists in the area and begin entering brothels, seeking out those who need rescue. Soon they form The Exodus Road coalition, "a road to leave slavery and bondage".
The book goes on to describe how The Exodus Road quickly grew from an idea to an organization active in several countries, with nearly 200 rescues to date. This group is on the front lines, facilitating rescue in the darkest, seediest places in the world, and this book is the story of how it all started. It's simple, honest, and a great insight into how sometimes the extraordinary is started with a very ordinary family.
I've been following Laura's blog since just before the Exodus Road was formed. I've watched this organization grow into something so powerful and I am impressed with not only the organization, but also with the Parkers. These people are real-life role heroes doing the dirty work of rescue. They are humble, and loving, and are doing things I haven't seen from other organizations. One of my favorite things is getting a text from them. They send texts whenever a raid is about to happen, or has just happened. Few things are more exciting than a text saying a brothel was raided and 89 women were set free. My only complaint about this book? I wanted it to be longer!
Want to get a copy of this book for yourself? Laura has the links in this blog post. More information on The Exodus Road and how to get involved can be found on their website.
Definitely check out this book, and find your way to get involved in the fight against human trafficking.
5/5 Stars
