Monday, April 21, 2014

Making Happy

In Making Happy, Les and Leslie Parrott take a different approach to what makes a good marriage and how to improve your marriage-by being happy together. Going through the science of being happy, their book is like a mini class on how to make your marriage better. Quizzes, studies, personal stories, and quotes make this book an enjoyable study for couples and groups alike! I look forward to applying some of their concepts in my own marriage.

Thursday, April 17, 2014

A Lady's Honor

When Elizabeth was sent from her beloved Cornwall to find a husband in London, she figured finding true love would be easy. After three seasons though, she is tired of fortune seekers and must flee from being married off to an old marquess who's previous wives have meet mysterious deaths. But, is her home really a haven? With the problem of smugglers threatening her safety, and the attention of a man who interests her but is below her station, Elizabeth must learn that she cannot put her trust in stone and mortor.
I thought this story was interesting and had a lot going on, but I also found Elizabeth hard to relate to. Still, it was a good story and I liked the mystery!
I received a copy of this novel for my honest opinion.

Monday, April 14, 2014

The Butterfly and the Violin

Sera James once saw a striking painting of a young woman in a concentration camp, holding her violin. In the years since she laid eyes on the painting, she has sought to find it again. When she comes across a copy of the original painting, she is instantly swept up in the mystery surrounding an inheritance left to the owner of the original painting.
In late 1942, Adele Von Bron is a young musician who trades the world of performing for that of the concentration camps when she is caught smuggling Jews out of Vienna.
This is a beautiful story of sacrifice and love. I picked it up because of the beautiful cover, and found that the story is every bit as beautiful as the cover. If you enjoy historical fiction, this one is a must!

Killing Jesus

Killing Jesus  is an interesting book on the conspiracy behind the trial and crucifixion of Jesus Christ. With Easter around the corner, I think that this is a good book to read through, since it makes you really stop and think about the sacrifice that Jesus made by going through such a gruesome death. This book is not for the faint of heart, since the author does go through the torment and persecution that Jesus went through on our behalf. I thought it was interesting that he makes the point that Jesus suffered on the cross and how it was a very public, humiliating death. (not to mention painful) It made me really stop and pause to think about the suffering that came before His triumphant resurrection.
*Note, this is not for the faint of heart. Also, it is not a book to read to young children.
I received a copy of this for my honest opinion.

Love Finds You in Sugarcreek, Ohio

Small town cop, Rachel Troyer, just wants to look out for her three elderly Amish aunts when she encourages them to close their small inn and take it easy. When a mysterious man and his little boy have to find a place to stay when their truck breaks down, the aunts are more than happy to open their home, relying on the scripture about entertaining angels unaware. But, Rachel is sure that he is hiding something and is no angel.
I wasn't sure if I would like this novel, but found it very engaging and hard to put down! The characters were solid and came alive. There was also a lot going on with the mystery, I like that there were hints along the way before the whole story comes out.;) Two thumbs up! I look forward to reading more of Serena B. Miller's books!

Drucker and Me

Drucker and Me is about the journey a Texas business man starts on when he approaches Peter Drucker (who is considered the father of modern business management)to mentor him with the family business he inherited. Through their many years as friends, they move from making an impact on corporate America to revolutionizing the non for profit arena.
Filled with insightful quotes and useful information, this book is more than just an excellent business tool, it is also a very readable memoir.

Tuesday, April 8, 2014

Top Ten Tuesday

Top Ten Unique books

1. Captives by Jill Williamson

2. One Realm Beyond by Donita K. Paul

3. The Thief by Megan Whalen Turner

4. Crown Duel by Sherwood Smith

5. Mere Christianity by C. S. Lewis
So simple, and yet complex!

6. The Cutting Edge by Ace Collins

7. Rose Daughter by Robin McKinley

8. Love Comes Calling by Siri Mitchell

9. Dysfunction Junction by April Erwin

10. Porcelain Keys by Sarah Beard