Psalms of Hope

 Link to Amazon UK Here

Link to Amazon US Here

We are currently living in difficult and troubled times. The world seems to be in turmoil and news of the ever escalating economic crises bombards us from every angle. There has never been a time when we need the hope, we can only get from god, more. The book I am reviewing today points you to this hope through 10 of the Psalms.

I was fortunate to be a Beta Reader for this book, and wanted to share it with everyone and shout it from the rooftops immediately. However, for obvious reasons , I had to contain my impatience until it was published.

This book provides an overview and in depth study of 10 of the Psalms of hope. Bob Saffron has a real understanding and love of these Psalms and it is obvious that he wants to share this throughout each page. This is not a superficial study but one which asks you to look at your emotions in light of what David was feeling when he wrote these Psalms. I now feel I know David more intimately having shared in the pain and suffering he felt whilst writing them.. However, this is not a book which foccuses on suffering but on the hope David felt in whichever circumstance he found himself. He had a sure knowledge that God was there beside him, wherever he was, or whatever he might have been doing. Despite the distance in time from when David wrote these, to my modern day existence, I could find myself identifying with many of his situations and feelings.

Each chapter of the book covers a different Psalm and at the end there are a set of questions called Life Lessons. These are an integral part of the study, and I found them to be quite insightful. They encourage you to ask searching questions, the answers to which will demonstrate your relationship with God and the application of the Psalm to your life today.

This is not a book to read and forget. It can  be used for either group or individual study. I found that the best way to use the book was to read the Psalm a couple of times, read the commentary and pray before and whilst thinking about and answering the questions. This gave me, not only a deeper understanding of the Psalm, but of myself, and the hope that I have in God, and the way he answers me and gives me hope in even the simple things.

I would highly recommend this book, I have been blessed by reading it, and am so pleased I am now able to share it with you. Read it, enjoy it and learn more about God and yourself through it.

Although this book is currently only available on kindle it will be released in paperback in the near future.

We've Gone all Historical

No not hysterical, Historical. Although I suppose you could say we are hysterical about history. This week we are going to do a little time travel and go back to places and events which we often hear about. The authors in this weeks four fabulous books, will transport you back to a time you can only imagine. We are going to spend time in The American Revolution, Victorian England and post WW2 Germany. What no Scotland? That I will have to address soon I feel :-) We have Murder Mystery, Romantic Suspense and Romance/Family Drama. Surely something for everyone in this weeks offerings.

We are going to start our trip through time in America during the Revolutionfor no other reason that it is first on our timeline. The first 2 Books are by author Rita Gerlach who I interviewed in last weeks Blog post. This is the first two books in her daughters of the Potomac Trilogy.

The first in the Trilogy is Before the Scarlet Dawn. This is the story of   feisty heroine Eliza, who after losing both her father and brother in the same day, marries Hayward and moves out to the colonies with him. I loved Eliza and the way she fights for what she believes.On the other hand, I was in two minds about her husband Hayward, who displayed as many unlikeable traits, as likeable. It is, however, apparent that he loves his wife. Haywards, story is part of the story and gives it a richness it would otherwise lack. It is good to have real and honest characters in a novel, ensuring a balance that is often missing in so many books these days. . The story is extremely well written, you really get the sense of America at the time, and how the civil war impacted on ordinary people. You also get to know a lot about the English class system, which seemed to continue free and unfettered in America.

I was fortunate to be given an advance copy of the second book in the trilogy  Beside Two Rivers  by the publishers. I loved this book but I am going to be honest and say I am struggling to know what to say about it. This is not because I don't have a lot to say, but I don't want to give too much away about the plot of  the first book. We are once again on the banks of the Potomac River, following the story of another feisty yet loving and kind young woman called Darcy. It is also the story of Ethan, with whom Darcy falls in love. There are a lot of elements and strands to this book but Rita pulls them together beautifully, weaving a tale which draws you completely into the story. I found myself reading long into the night to finish. About half way through the book the plot moves once more to England, bringing in characters from the first book getting to know more about them, and changing the way you feel about them. It is an emotional book and the characterisation is outstanding. I felt I knew every single person personally, and really cared about their lives. This book will be released in the UK on 01 October 2012. Unfortunately the next book in the trilogy Beyond the Valley will not be released until February 2013. How can I wait that long for the conclusion to this :-( Oh well, it will be all the better when it arrives :-)

Both of these are faith based books and the Christian ethos is strong. However, this does not at any point overwhelm and the books could be read by Christians and non-Christians alike.

Back into our time capsule as we are now moving forward in time to Dickensian London with a book title based on the graveyard in one of Dickens books.

Again, I was fortunate to be given a review copy of Tom All Alone's by Waterstones Bookshops and the book can be bought from them here. However, I realise this is a British bookshop so not accessible to my international readers so I will point out it can also be bought from Amazon in whichever country you reside. It is based on Charles Dickens novel bleak house, bringing it up to date for the modern reader. and is extremely well done. I could actually believe I was reading a Dickens novel and was back in Victorian London. The opening prologue is atmospheric and sets the scene well. I thought the characters were well written and I found I could empathise with them and picture them well. The descriptions of Victorian London are spot on and at times very graphic. The main character Charles Maddox is a likeable chap and I really loved his uncle who is just like many old men of his age. His character made me chuckle. I liked the ending and despite having read Bleak House some number of years ago I was taken completely by surprise. Overall, I enjoyed the book, but a couple of times I found it a little bit slow. I am also a lover of Dickens novels so was comfortable with the writing style, but some people may struggle a little to start with. If you do not like Dickens then this would not be the book for you.

This is not a Christian book, but again it is a book which could be read by anyone. When I say that some of the descriptions are graphic I mean the descriptions of Victorian London rather than sex, swearing and murder.

Once again it's back to our time capsule to finish our little stroll through history, in post WW2 Germany. Having served in Germany during my time in the Military this was particularly interesting to me. I have seen modern Germany, so it was interesting to see what the towns and Cities were like prior to all the rebuilding which went on after the war.

Just in case you think I am only reviewing books I receive free for reviewing I paid good money for Songbird Under a German Moon and it was worth every penny.  This is the Story of Betty, a young American girl who goes out to Germany just after WW2 to sing for the troops who remain there. On the way she meets a US Army "Photographer" Frank, who has a double role as an agent. Other people say this is somewhat implausible, but I do not find this implausible at all., and if you do, it's a novel and some level of poetic licence has to come into play. The story is well written and both mystery and romance are there in equal measure. Although I started to guess who the protagonist was near the end I still feel the suspense built up well and had me enthralled. The ending was excellent and came as a complete surprise to me. This is a Christian book, written by a Christian author, but this is not overwhelming and fits into the story well. If you like this genre then I could highly recommend this book, as a light ready for a rainy afternoon. Tricia Goyer is an excellent author, who has written a number of books, both fiction and non-fiction and I would highly recommend her as an author.

I know I was given a couple of these books to review, so I need to add that these were fair and honest reviews based on my thoughts on the books. I was not asked by the publishers to give favourable reviews and if I had not liked the books I would have said so.

Well ladies and gentlemen that concludes our trip today. I hope you had a safe an pleasant journey, and enjoyed reading the reviews. I hope you find some books you like amongst them, and you enjoy reading them. I'm now wondering what I could read out of my vast library for my next Blog. All will be revealed next week. Until then, keep reading

 

 

Interview With Rita Gerlach

 

                    

 

 

 

I am very excited this week to welcome Rita Gerlach to the Bookaholics blog. Rita is a best selling Christian author who has written a number of Historical Fiction Books. One of my personal favourites is The Rebels Pledge. This is the story of Matthew Hale who is sent to the American Colonies as a slave, having rebelled against the evil King James. His Godly owner, sets him free and asks him to return to Britain to bring his daughter to America. It's the sort of book you can't stop reading, and the characters are so alive they leap from the pages and are a part of your life. Rita has also written The Daughters of the Potomac Series, book one of which, Before the Scarlet Dawn  is already available to buy, with book 2, Beside Two Rivers being released on 1st of October, and is available to preorder. The Third book in the series Beyond the Valley, will be available in February 2013.

 

I would like to thank Rita for taking time out of her hectic schedule to tell us a bit more about herself and her books. This is the first interview I have undertaken for the blog and Rita has been very gracious in helping me, a fairly rookie blogger.

 

1. Could I start by asking you to tell us a little bit about yourself

I’m a middle child from a large family. I had a vivid imagination, still do, and made lots of stories up. I have a memory as a preschooler standing in my mother’s kitchen chattering on and on about some event. She paused from washing the dishes and said, ‘Re Re, are you telling me a story?” I smiled and nodded that I was. And here I am so many years later, still telling stories. Only now I’m writing them down.

I married my high school sweetheart — a state champion gymnast back in the day, who traded in tumbling for fly-fishing and raising our two sons. I was a stay at home mom thankfully to his job, and was able to write full-time while the boys were in school.  We live in central Maryland in a town rife with history that dates back to the French and Indian War. Besides writing, I love photography, quilting, and exploring out of the way historical places.

 

2. You obviously love writing historical fiction. Where did you get your passion for this genre?

I think it was borne in me as a child. Old black and white movies would come on television that I was riveted to. I know this because anything else did not hold my attention. Some of those films that influenced me were Captain Blood, The Sea Hawk, Frenchman’s Creek, Jane Eyre, Pride & Prejudice, and Jamaica Inn. Later on Masterpiece Theater stirred my passion for historicals with Poldark. I read all these novels and so the seeds were sown into my heart. In all these novels I saw faith, but they went deeper into the human heart, into the hardships people face no matter who or what they are. Not even the most spiritual of characters has a trouble-free character. That is what molded my passion for writing historical dramas.

3. If you were able to go back to any other time period, what would it be?

Oh, that would be a hard decision to make. I would love to live for a while in the Hope Valley, Derbyshire during the Regency period. I would also love to live along the Potomac River in the colonial era. It would be amazing to see how it looked in a time when there were not paved roads, cars, airplanes, or trains. However, I think I would find life a little easier in England than in the wilderness of Maryland where life was a fight for survival.

4. You have so many interesting characters in your novels. Which is your favourite and why?

My favorite hero is Matthew Hale in The Rebel’s Pledge. Matthew possesses all the qualities of gallantry and bravery. His father, a respected physician, and his kind mother, raised him to be a man committed to the scriptures, and reliant on his faith in God’s mercy. His belief in the biblical mandate for husbands to love their wives as Christ loved the church and laid his life down for it, is the premise for his pledge to protect Lara—even before he lays eyes on her.

My favorite heroine is Darcy in Beside Two Rivers. Darcy has courage and an adventurous spirit. However, she has an impulsive streak that leads her into trouble. Strong willed and independent, she relies upon an uncomplicated faith and an unwavering trust in God that He will lead her in the way she should go.

5. What advice would you give to anyone thinking about writing Christian Fiction?

I have an article on my website for aspiring writers called Perseverance, Patience, and Humility. It is my story of how I acquired a contract and encouragement for writers. In it I share the following.

No matter what happens, if you have a burning passion in your soul to write, never let rejections discourage you.  It may take a while to produce a polished manuscript. It may take a long time to find the publisher that is right for you.  I learned waiting for that to happen was worth it.

The industry may be tough. But there is one thing for certain. Whether you are published or not, no one can say you are not a writer, and no one can take away the talent that God gave you. Only you can decide what you will do with it.

Read bestselling books on writing. Learn everything you can about the craft, from character development to plotting, to how to write tight. Study how to edit your work. Study the industry and get an understanding of how publishing works. Read bestselling books within your genre. Listen to seasoned authors advice. Above all do not let discouragements get the best of you, and do not write for fame or fortune, or the praise of others. If that is your goal, you are starting out for all the wrong reasons. Write because you love it and because God blessed you with a talent.

My website is http://ritagerlach.blogspot.com

My blog: http://inspire-writer.blogspot.com

 

Thank you once again Rita. It has been a real pleasure finding out more about you and great advice for all budding authors out there. I agree with you about Matthew Hale, I think I fell in love with him myself. I can't wait to read Beside Two Rivers, and find out more about Darcy. She sounds a bit like me. Rita, if you like history then you need to come and visit Scotland, where there is history around every corner :-) 

 

You can find the Link for Rita's Amazon UK authors page Here and Amazon US author page Here

 

I hope you enjoy reading Rita's books. I certainly do. Have a great week everyone and whatever you are reading enjoy it.



Special Giveaway

This is not my usual weekly blog but a link to a special giveaway on another blog. Now being Scottish I am always keen to find a bargain, but a $300 giveaway for Amazon US is one awesome giveaway. Before you think my Scottish nature is changing rapidly and I am giving this away myself, fear not :-)

This giveaway is brought to you by Christian Fiction Book Reviews and a number of Christian authors who are very generously donating the money between them.

Now I know a number of you who are not living in the USA are thinking what use is an Amazon US gift voucher to me. Well, panic ye not. You can register on Amazon US with your UK email address. As long as you have a US gift card or credit card, you are cooking on gas, or buying books anyway.

So why not pop along to the Christian Book Reviews Blog and follow what it says to do. You never know you might be buying lots of lovely books before you know where you are. Perfect for someone who writes a bookaholics blog don't you think.

My usual blog will resume in the next couple of days, with an exciting author interview, so well worth looking out for. Good luck with the contest. Actually why am I saying that, I want to win it myself. Until next time, choose a good book and enjoy reading.

Lets Go Deeper

A bit of an enigmatic title today, but this book, and my title, have got me thinking. In so many situations in life we are superficial and don't really go deeper than the surface. This can be particularly true when it comes to bible study. Although I read the bible I came to the realisation that I needed to go deeper and to really study the bible and how it applies to my life. The book I am reviewing has really helped me to do that, and I wanted to share with you today why this is the case. I have been using this book to support my bible study for some time, but am blogging about it now because I now feel better placed to give a proper overview of the book. This is not a "read it and put it aside" book. But one which you will use regularly to develop your study of the bible.

How to Study the Bible for Yourself

Firstly, I need to explain that I have read several of Tim LaHaye's books and I really like his writing. However, you do not need to be a Tim LaHaye fan to enjoy and make use of this book. Can I hear a collective sigh of relief from all those who either, have never heard of him or are not a great fan of some of his other work.

The purpose of this book is to help you really understand the bible through a systematic and thorough study by yourself. It is not a commentary, and will not give expanations or expositions of any of the books or the text. So what does it do then, I can hear you ask.


What it does is help you to approach your bible study in a systematic way, exploring the themes and principles and key teachings and verses. It will help you to develop strong habits in bible study, allowing you to discuss the bible with others and apply it to your life. Ok, I have to admit some of that came from the blurb on the back, but it portrays the essence of this book perfectly. But more than this it explains how to read the bible and gives different methods for doing this. It takes you in detail through these, such as studying the bible by books, subject analysis or chapters. It sets out a bible reading plan which helps you read the whole bible from cover to cover. This is not the start in Genesis finish in Revelation style of study but uses a different approach, starting with 1 John. LaHaye is very clear about why you are starting with this book and what it will do to help you in your spiritual life.

This is an excellent book which has inspired me and really encouraged me to take my study of the bible more seriously. However, this is not a book for the faint hearted. In the first week you are encouraged to read 1 John seven times, and keep a spiritual diary. It takes between 30-60 minutes a day depending on what approach you take. You are also encouraged to keep a spiritual diary, and to memorise bible verses each day. However, I have not found this to be difficult to do. For example when memorising verses, LaHaye suggests you write them on a small card which you carry around with you. You then memorise them when you have a few moments throguhout the day. I have put them on my phone in a free word processing app so always have them with me. If you are anything like me you will never be far from your phone.

I think I need to finish there before my blog is as long as the book. This is an excellent book which I would advise anyone to buy if they are serious about their study of the bible. This is a paperback and not available on kindle. However, it is not that big and you can take it anywhere. It was one of the few paperbacks I took on my recent trip to Cambodia, and given todays weight limits that should give you some indication of how I rate the book. My hope is that you will enjoy this book. My prayer is that you will find yourself going deeper with God through your study of the bible.

Till next time, keep reading.

It's Autobiography Time

I was recently asked the question Why do you enjoy reading biographies? My answer to this question was - they inspire me and make me look at life in different way. They make me try different things and give me an insight into a world in which I would not normally play a part. Christian biographies make me realise that often I am not on my own in the way I feel and that there are many others who stand beside me. They make me marvel and wonder and cheer at the people who are portrayed in them, and take me away from my own world for a brief period of time.

The two books in todays blog certainly cover all of those points and more. I have read both of them this week and although both different, they each demonstrate that we as humans have a teancity of will and spirit which can go beyond what we could ever think we could bear.

The first, and this is in no order of favouritism or liking one more than the other is Hiking Through: One Mans Journey to Peace and Freedom on the Appalachian Trail by Paul V. Stutzman.

This book had me so engrossed I literally could not put it down, starting to read at midday and finishing at midnight. The book starts when the authors wife is firstly diagnosed with and then dies of cancer. In order to fulfill a promise to himself whilst she was ill he hikes the whole length of the appalachian trail in order to come to terms with her death, and work out his relationship with God, who he is busy blaming for her death. This book had me gripped from the get go. From the inital preparations for the hike, to the very final step I felt like I had gone every single step right alongside him, at all times being completely immersed in his story. Paul is an excellent writer and he brings the breathtaking scenery, the storms, the sunlight, the pain , the joy. the good days and the bad completely to life. I could imagine every single detail as though I were actually there. Paul at times hikes alone and at others is accompanied by a cast of colourful characters, these being the other hikers on the trail. At times eccentric, they still demonstrate the rich tapestry of people who each year take to the trail to complete its 2100 miles. But this is so much more than a physical tale it is also one of a spiritual seeking after God. Each person has their reasons for going on the trail, and for Paul this journey is one of finding himself closer to God. At times he speaks to, and is answered by, God. Although God is talked about and Pauls faith is real, this part of the story does not overwhelm and is a natural part of the story. There are moments of sadness, moments of laughter, moments of joy and many moments of just putting one foot in front of the other, but they all add to the richness of the story. When the final step was taken I felt like I was losing a good friend. I celebrated with him, and then had to move on. An excellent book which I would highly recommend.


My next book is The Mansion Across the Street: Abundantly Beyond all that We Ask or Think  by Rose Anne Daniels.

In this book the author gives an honest and brave account of her life, particularly her struggles with bipolar disorder. Having had a somewhat difficult and, in some ways, unconventional upbringing, her childhood and early life was not the easiest. Then in her twenties she was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder and committed to a psychiatric hospital without her consent. This could be a book which is as depressing as the disorder of which it speaks, yet it is not. It is full of hope and courage and Rose Anne's faith in God shines through in every page. She does not feel sorry for herself, but lives her life to the full and in the way God would want her to. Her life and everything she does is firmly rooted in scripture. As I say the author is extremely honest and I felt that I was right there with her throughout. During this time Rose Ann knew that God was with her and would help her to get through anything.There were many times in this book where I found myself crying, but there are also many moments of joy, and sharing in Rose Anne's excitement of life. Despite being told she would never amount to much she now has a nursing degree and works with Brain Injured patients. This is a moving account which fills you with hope and gives you the courage and determination to deal with whatever situation God has put you in. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who has or is interested in bipolar disorder, and to anyone who is struggling with their own issues. It will bring you hope.

 

As I say, two very different, but eqaully honest and encouraging memoirs. I am cetainly glad that each of the authors wrote them as they give me hope and strength that I can cope with any situation which may come my way. I feel as if I have made two friends, and far from leaving them behind, I know their words and actions will be with me well into the future. I hope you enjoy these books and until next time, keep reading.

 

The Psalm 23 Mysteries

As you have probably gathered by now if you have been reading my blogs I have a wide taste in reading. My two favourite genres however, are Christian Literature (or fiction) and Murder Mysteries. This series The Psalm 23 Mysteries by Debbie Viguie combine both, so perfect for me then. These are mainly murder mysteries and the Christian Theme is subtle rather than in your face, about the right mixture I feel. There are 4 books in the series so far and today I am dedicating this blog to introducing you to all four books.

The first book The Lord is my Shepherd introduces you to Cindy, a church Secretary who, on going to work one morning stumbles over the body of a man, a parishioner, dead in the church sanctuary. Cindy's screams bring Jeremiah, the Rabbi from the Synagogue next door, running to her rescue. In this way the two main characters are introduced to us, and to each other. It is a fast apced opening to a book and the thrills, of what turns out to be a fast paced ride, continue from here. You never know what is going to happen next, and just when you think things are on an even keel, along comes something else which takes you completely by surprise. The characters are well drawn and completely believable. The intraction between Cindy, Jeremiah and the detective Mark is portrayed just right. We get to know enough about their background to keep us wanting to find out more in the next book. There are hints that Jeremiah is not all what he seems, enough to tantilise but not irritate.  Thre is also a frisson of interest between Cindy and Jeremiah, with enough happening to keep the reader interested, but enough left out to want you to keep reading the next book. The mystery is top notch and the scenes are described well, if a little graphically. I personally don't mind this but I have mentioned just in case it would not be everyone's cup of tea.

The second book in the series I shall not want is an excellent and certainly worthy follow up to the first.  The first body appears within the first few pages and they continue to come thick and fast. In this novel someone is murdering dog owners and stealing their dogs. The first murder is apparently unrelated to these events and this seems slightly puzzling, but the author pulls it in beautifully before the end. Cindy and Jeremiah are back in this book, although we do  hear slightly less of Jeremiah. This said we do get to see a bit more of who he really is and a little bit of insight into his mysterious past. That said it was just enough to keep you wanting to find out more. There is not so much interaction between Cindy and Jeremiah in this book either, but enough to keep us waiting for the next installment. The sign of a good writer I feel. This book would work as a stand alone with regards to the mystery element but you may be slightly confused with regards to the personal lives of, and interaction between, the main characters.

The third novel in the series is Lie Down in Green Pastures  and what a book it is. I read it from start to finish in one go barely taking a break. This is certainly a book which grabs you by the troat and holds your attention. Yet again Cindy and Jeremiah find themselves surrounded by a veritable array of dead bodies. Cindy is still in Town but Jeremiah has gone to a camp with a group of kids from both the church and the synagogue. He then gets stranded with some of the kids, and without giving the game away the tension builds rapidly from here, with of course, Cindy riding (figuratively) to the rescue. I certainly didn't guess the end or who did it. There is a cliff hanger at the end which will make you want to read the next book immediately. I, unfortunately, had to wait for some time for it to be released, but fortunately for anyone interested in reading these books it is now available.

The fourth novel in the series Beside Still Waters has only recently been released.  The continuing story  of Cindy and Jeremiah continues to delight and enthrall as have all three of the previous books which you will have seen by my reviews.  This is an excellent series and this book was as good as, if not better than, the others. Cindy, has gone off to Hawaii to have a well deserved rest, probably from the mayhem and madness and array of dead bodies which seem to litter her path and life. Needless to say she hasn't been there for long when she stumbles over, yes, another dead body and another murder. Someone then tries to murder her and she ends up kidnapped. Jeremiah, the Rabbi from the synagogue next door, who is mulling over his own dark and secret past, rushes to her aid the minute he realises she is missing. The action and tension in this book had me on the edge of my seat and breathless with excitement practically from the beginning. As the action unfolds we get to know a little more of Jeremiah's past, but you will need to read the book to find out what this is as I don't want to spoil the story. Jeremiah and Cindy's relationship also develops a little and we get to see more of their feelings for each other. With regards to whether the question of the cliffhanger is settled, again you will have to read the book. No plot spoilers here. This is an excellent book. If you have read the first three you will love it. If you haven't the mystery part will still be enjoyable but the relationships between the characters and the reasons they' are like they are will not. I would advise you to read them in order. A brilliant book which I would highly recommend.

I have not read any of Debbie Viguie's other books, but I would say from this series she is an excellent writer. She uses words to very good effect, to pull you into the story and to keep you wondering what is going to happen next. The plotlines in each and every book are superb, and highly entertaining. My only regret now is that book number five is not being released for some time. What on earth am I going to do to keep myself entertaned until then. Oh yes, I know, read some of the several thousand other books I have, and no I am not exagerating. See you next time in the bookaholics blog. Until then enjoy whatever book you are reading.