Les Miserables...and why I love movies and musicals

Two nights ago my husband, my sister and I watched Les Miserables. All three of us were giddy in anticipation of an incredible performance.  I exected to be moved, to be inspired, and cry. I was sure I would go through a box of tissues and I was actually looking forward to that experience of the show.

I love the story of Les Mis. It is truly the story of grace, forgiveness, and a changed life. Have you ever listened to the musical? Wow! The lyrics, performances, voices, and orchestra are INCREDIBLE. Put those two together and you know you are in for a treat, right?

I speak music. Now, I am not a singer, I am a dancer, but when I hear music, and singing, my soul connects in a powerful way. This is one of the reasons I love musicals so much.

And let's not forget the power of story (especially in cinematography when you see it unfolding before your eyes). Some stories are so powerful that they change you, they touch you, and they inspire you.

As the end credits rolled out, I sat motionless in my seat. Les Miserables was a good movie, but there was something that just didn't sit well with me. It took me a while to figure it out, but I finally did. I felt cheated.

The story is complex, and there is so much to tell. However, the events happened so quickly that it was hard for me to follow (even being familiar with the story). I had no emotional investment or connection to the characters. Yes, Ann Hathaway's rendition of "I dream a dream" was as amazing as the previous show. However, before that, I did not feel emotionally drawn to her plight. Her song moved me, but her story...well, it did not. It happened so quickly.

Oh the singing was great, I do not even have anything bad to say about Russel Crowe and his singing. It just didn't...connect.

Another great performance was "Empty chairs"  and Eponine was incredible, but then again, I did not feel this great sadness or loss.

Maybe this is a good place to also point out that since this is a movie, I did not expect it to be all singing. No dialogue, no talking, all singing. I don't know, singing, "Who is out there" takes away from how powerful it would be to say, "Who is out there" if you were terrified to find someone that wants to kill you, no matter how terrified you look, if you sing it rather than say it, it is not the same (in my humble opinion). So the "we sing everything" approach actually took away from my enjoyment of the movie, and it took away from the powerful songs, because it all became singing (and I really do love singing).

So maybe Les Mis, the movie, was not my cup of tea. Maybe this is just a style that does not "speak" to me. I really, really wanted to love it, but I felt like the previous did a lot more for me than the actual show. I did come home and found some Broadway performances to "redeem" the experience for me, and yes, I do love Les Miserables, absolutely love the musical too...just not this particular movie version.

What about you. Did you love it? Was it everything you expected it to be? Were you disappointed?

Book review: The 60 Minute Money Workout

The 60 Minute Money Workout by Ellie Kay is a practical guide to help you get your finances under control.

Kay helps you look at your finances not just for quick fixes now, but for the long haul. A great guide to help you understand the importance of having your finances under control, realizing that it takes time (only 60 minutes a week) to go over your spending, budget, savings, expenses, etc.

It is ironic that most of us do not spend enough time making sure our "money" is being well managed.

In order to live, we need to "make a living," right? Basically, we have a job, so we can have money, so we can afford food, clothing, housing and cover the expenses from...living. We live in a society where money speaks. They say that in order to know what your priorities are, just look at what you spend your money on. Isn't that true!

So we get a check, and we spend the money. Then we scratch our heads and think, "Where is all my money going?" Taking care of our finances should be a priority, and Ellie Kay does a phenomenal job helping you understand your finances, planning budgets, getting out of debt, even giving generously, and enjoy time with your family.

Great resource if you are wanting to become money-smart!

You can find out more about the book - like reading an excerpt - by clicking HERE.

I received this book for free by Waterbrook-Multnomah publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review: Illusion by Frank Peretti and GIVEAWAY

After seven years, New York Times bestselling author Frank Peretti is back! On March 6th his new book Illusion was released and it is already making its way into the New York Times bestselling list.

From the back cover of the book:

Dane and Mandy, a popular magic act for forty years, are tragically separated by a car wreck that claims Mandy’s life—or so everyone thinks. Even as Dane mourns and tries to rebuild his life without her, Mandy, supposedly dead, awakes in the present as the nineteen-year-old she was in 1970. Distraught and disoriented in what to her is the future, she is confined to a mental ward until she discovers a magical ability to pass invisibly through time and space to escape. Alone in a strange world, she uses her mysterious powers to eke out a living, performing magic on the streets and in a quaint coffee shop.
Hoping to discover an exciting new talent, Dane ventures into the coffee shop and is transfixed by the magic he sees, illusions that even he, a seasoned professional, cannot explain. But more than anything, he is emotionally devastated by this teenager who has never met him, doesn’t know him, is certainly not in love with him, but is in every respect identical to the young beauty he first met and married some forty years earlier.
They begin a furtive relationship as mentor and protégée, but even as Dane tries to sort out who she really is and she tries to understand why she is drawn to him, they are watched by secretive interests who not only possess the answers to Mandy’s powers and misplacement in time but also the roguish ability to decide what will become of her.
Frank Peretti has crafted a rich, rewarding story of love and life, loss and restoration, full of twists and mystery. Exceptionally well written, Illusion will soon prove another Peretti classic.

I love to find a book that keeps me up late at night and is hard to put down. There is something about a good story that allows you to be a present observer as the story unfolds. Once I began to read, I was hooked!

If you are familiar with Frank Peretti, I would warn you that this is not a book with a Spiritual theme, but rather a mystery, thriller, and sci-fi book. While you might find some spiritual elements that come into play in the story (the main characters are Christians) this is not a book like This Present Darkness or Piercing the Darkness.

While I personally had a hard time following the explanation of Mandy's "translocation" in time as well as the details of how it took place, it did not in any way deter me from thoroughly enjoying the story. While it is not my favorite Peretti book, this novel is a great read.

You can visit Frank Peretti's website by clicking here.

On to the fun part...

GIVEAWAY!

The nice people at Howard Books publisher and Handlebar Marketing sent me a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. However, they also sent me an extra copy to give away!

I promise, this is a great book! And who doesn't like to win free stuff?

So this is how you enter the giveaway. Simply leave me a comment here and on Saturday I will announce the winner by using random.org. Make sure you leave a way for me to contact you if you win!

Ready. Set. Go!

Book Review: The Bone House by Stephen Lawhead

A sequel to The Skin Map, we move on as Kit Livingston continues his search for the skin map (If you have not read the Skin Map or read the review, I recommend you do so as the books are connected and it would be impossible to pick up book 2 without knowing book 1).

About the author: Stephen Lawhead is a master storyteller. The way he uses words in his descriptions, dialogue and action are superb.

About the book: The story is an engaging adventure. It takes place across time and dimensions. It offers nuggets of history and customs that are fascinating. As a sequel and "middle" book, it continues to develop the story established in the first book, yet there are no resolutions. Usually "middle" books in trilogies are my least favorite. The good guys and bad guys are still after the skin map in order to understand the intricacies of ley travel.  we do not know anything about the "Bone House" until the last 2 chapters and towards the end of the book I am still concludes at the significance of this place or how it specifically fits together with the rest of the story. All we get is a glimpse with no explanation, yet it is clear this is an important place. Confused? So am I!

About the characters: In this book, we see Kit emerge with a purpose, we witness him in the process of "becoming." By the end of this second installation, we can see how Kit will become the hero. Mina continues to show she is a smart and resourcefull woman. It is hard not to like her...a lot.In the search for the skin map we meet remarkable characters.

Overall I would recommend this book based on its series.

I received this book for free by Thomas Nelson publishers through the Booksneeze blogger program in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review: The Skin Map by Stephen Lawhead

I will begin by giving you the book description from Thomas Nelson Publishers:

"I need your help with a project. It will be the adventure of a lifetime—of several lifetimes. But it will change you forever."

Kit Livingston's great-grandfather appears in a deserted alley during a tumultuous storm. He reveals an unbelievable story: ley lines throughout Britain are not merely the stuff of legend or the weekend hobby of deluded cranks—they're pathways to other worlds. To those who know how to use them, ley lines grant the ability to travel the multi-layered universe of which we ordinarily inhabit only a tiny part.

One explorer knew more than most. Braving every danger, he toured both time and space on voyages of heroic discovery. Ever on his guard, and fearful of becoming lost in the cosmos, he developed an intricate code—a roadmap of symbols—that he tattooed onto his own body. This Skin Map has since been lost in time. Now the race is on to recover all the pieces and discover its secrets.

The Bright Empires series is a unique blend of epic treasure hunt, ancient history, alternate realities, cutting-edge physics, philosophy, and mystery.

My husband is a fan of Stephen Lawhead. For years, when I have been looking for something to read, he has suggested I pick up one of Lawhead's books. When "The Skin Map" was given as a choice for a review, I figured if anything my husband would be glad to have it.

After one book, I believe I have become a fan.

About the author: Stephen Lawhead is a master storyteller. The way he uses words in his descriptions, dialogue and action are superb. I found myself reading some of his sentences twice, just for the pleasure of a well written sentence.

About the book: I don't think I could make this book enough justice, so here is a short, general overview.The story in itself is an engaging adventure. It takes place across time and dimensions. It offers nuggets of history and customs that are fascinating. More specifically, the good guys and bad guys are after the skin map in order to understand the intricacies of ley travel. While we see their stories unfold, we also learn about the man who was map and his journey.

About the characters: Ah! This is my favorite part about books, the characters! Our man, Kit, is not a hero. He is an insecure, directionless, bored young man trying to figure out what to do about life. When his great-grandfather, Cosimo, offers the adventure of a lifetime, Kit joins in yet continues to be a stand-bier. Kit's girlfriend, Mina, is a depressed, tired, unattractive woman who works as a baker. In Kit's desperate attempt to get Mina to believe his story of ley travel, Kit takes Mina to a ley line, where unfortunately, they are separated and land in different times and places. Contrary to Kit, Mina rises above her circumstances and well...I will not spoil the story for you. Kit and his companions are trying to find the skin map in order to find Mina, and what unfolds in between is an energizing adventure.

Lastly, I do believe this book would make a great movie! The story is strong, and the characters are simply outstanding!

So if you are looking for a fantasy/adventure book to read, grab "The Skin Map." It will not disappoint!

I received this book for free by Thomas Nelson publishing through the Booksneeze team in exchange for my honest review.

Different Dream Parenting: Giveaway!

Let me start by saying, that if you have a child with special needs, this is the book for you! Really! Jolene Philo has given all of us---parents of kids with special needs---an incredible gift through her book. Packed with resources, stories, encouragement, and prayers, this is a book that will bring you hope as you journey in the world of special needs, along with guides to IEP's, services, insurance issues, and everything else that parents of kids with special needs ever have to face!

When I got Jolene's book in the mail, I got a treasure! And I want to share that treasure with you! It is Christmas, so I want you to have the opportunity to have this book as a Christmas present from me! All you have to do is leave me a comment here, and tell me what is the best book on special needs that you have read! I will announce the winner on Saturday!

Besides, our family got to be a part of this book! You will get to hear about Nina and Nichole in these pages. I have had the pleasure of meeting Jolene in person and she is a lovely woman of God.

With that, I leave you with Jolene's words to you:

When our beautiful newborn boy was transferred to a regional hospital, my husband and I felt lost at sea. A few hours later, we learned that our baby required immediate surgery at a university hospital 750 miles away. Without it, he would die. That news threw us overboard. We longed for someone who could come alongside and pull us out of the water. A book to chart a map through unfamiliar waters and assure us of God’s presence.

But our son was born in 1982 when pediatric medicine was a relatively new field. Families like ours were hard to find. Parenting books hadn’t been written. The internet didn’t exist. Over the next twenty years, even after the surgeries and medical procedures that corrected our son’s condition were over, my search for parenting resources yielded scant results. Eventually, I sensed God nudging me to come alongside young parents lost at sea like we had been, to create a map they could follow.

Different Dream Parenting: A Practical Guide to Raising a Child with Special Needs is that map. It’s a map for parents of kids living with medical special needs as well as conditions like Down Syndrome, juvenile diabetes, developmental delays, and autism, and those facing a terminal diagnosis. It guides parents by providing tools and resources they need to become effective advocates for their kids.

The book features interviews, advice, and resources from more than fifty families and two dozen professionals. With their help, the book addresses the situations parents face every day. Things I wish someone had told me, like:

•      Asking questions after diagnosis.

•      Dealing with insurance companies.

•      Preparing a child for a hospital stay.

•      Accessing financial resources and government monies.

•      Accessing special education services.

•      Determining optimum level of care.

•      Mobilizing volunteers at home.

•      Supporting the sibs.

•      Preparing a child for death.

•      Planning a funeral.

•      Participating in community and church events.

•      Creating a special needs trust for adult children with special needs.

In addition to practical advice, Different Dream Parenting tackles spiritual questions families are often afraid to ask. Questions about:

•      God’s sovereignty

•      Parental guilt

•      Setting and maintaining spiritual priorities

•      Grieving for children living with special needs

•      Grieving the death of a child

•      Passing faith on to children with special needs

Thirty day prayer guides in the appendices are for parents too exhausted to form their own prayers.

I remember what it’s like to be lost at sea, thrown overboard by an unexpected diagnosis, and drowning under a flood of caregiving demands. My goal is to put Different Dream Parenting into the hands of floundering parents so they have a map and know they’re not alone. To order the book, visit www.DifferentDream.com and click on the “buy the book” tab.

Thanks, Ellen, for this opportunity to guest blog at the Stumbo Family Story website and tell people about Different Dream Parenting. 

The contest is now closed, but I would still love to hear about your favorite books on special needs!

Book Review: This Little Prayer of Mine

This Little Prayer of Mine by Anthony DeStefano was a winner at my home! The innocent prayer of a child, as they ask for God to make them brave, to comfort them when they get hurt, to give them wisdom, to obey, and thank Him for their blessings.

The illustrations in this book are beautiful. My 3 girls were captivated by the pictures, and mesmerized with the words.

"Did you like this book?" I asked my girls. There was a resounding "Yes."

The book talks about God's love, however, in the last page, the children ask again, as most important of all, "Please love me God, forever more." A sentence I did not feel matched the tone of the book, describing God as caring, present, and loving. God is love, and we do not need to ask for His love. Yet, would a child, in his or her understanding ask for God's love?Maybe. I say this as a disclaimer, for some people may have a problem with the last line. It is, however, a great opportunity to talk to kids about God unconditional, unending, and "forever more" love. He gives it, without us asking for it, even though we do not deserve it.

You can read more details and praise for the book here.

I received this book for free by WaterbrookMultnomah Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review: Bible Stories for Preschoolers

We have many different Bibles, and this one could have had great potential.

What I like:
The stories are written to engage kids, by asking questions or to "point at the star."
At the end of every story there are a few questions that you can ask kids in order to help understand the story better.
There is always a hands on element to the story. Weather it be a craft or a snack.
The Bible memorization verse uses language that children understand.

What I did not like:
Some of the stories have details that are not accurate with Scripture details. Although minor, it was disappointing. For example, Joseph has a "long" coat in this story book, as opposed to a colorful coat. There were several stories where I caught these discrepancies.

Ultimately, what do children think? My 3 girls did not like the illustrations, they are cute, but they did not like them. Children are visual, and appealing illustrations are important. For my girls, this was a big issue. They did not like the pictures, so they did not care to read this particular Bible.

I received this book for free by Tyndale House publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review: For Women Only In the Workplace by Shaunti Feldhahm

Any woman that interacts with men in the workplace, or in different leadership situations, will gain great insights into the expectations and unspoken rules that men function with.

In this book, Feldhahm addresses the following:

• When a man says it is nothing personal but business, that is exactly what a man thinks.
• How do men view emotions at work?
• What is the one thing that men fear most and that drives them?
• What drives men crazy when working with women?
• You get the work done, no matter what.
• Men's insecurity and need for respect.
• Be careful with what you wear. You do not want to give the wrong idea.
• Men's top advice  for women in the workplace
• Perspective from experienced Christan women

If you have read "For Women Only" and like the book, this one will be no exception. Although I am a stay at home mom, I am involved in the community. The insights in this book were eye opening and challenging. If you are looking to get a promotion, or want to be respected by your men coworkers, this might help you understand how to achieve this goal.

You can click here for more details about the book.

And you can click here for an excerpt of the book.

And HERE you can read chapter one.

I received this book for free by Waterbook Multnomah Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

GIVEAWAY and Book Review: A Good and Perfect Gift by Amy Julia Becker

After 3 days in the hospital, I was discharged to go home with my baby girl who had been diagnosed with Down syndrome. Any parent who has received a diagnosis understands how hard it is to deal with it at the beginning. There is a lot of grief and fear when you know so little about what the diagnosis will mean to your family and your child. On the way home from the hospital, we stopped at a Christian bookstore. I asked one of the clerks for their special needs section, which they did not have. I then asked for a book on special needs or Down syndrome, which they did not have either. Among their hundreds of books there was nothing that would help me deal with my baby’s diagnosis or that could give me hope and understanding. Thankfully, I was able to find the book "Gifts" at Barnes N Noble, which till this day continues to be my favorite book written by parents for parents, about Down syndrome.


A Good and Perfect Gift by Amy Julia Becker is the book I had hoped to find 4 years ago.

Written from a Christian perspective, Becker invites us to journey with her as she wrestles with her daughter’s diagnosis with Down syndrome. She shares the lessons learned and the ways in which God changed her perspective and rearranged her priorities. It is a beautiful, open, honest memoir of her experience dealing with her child’s diagnosis. Like the subtitle of the book says, it is about faith, expectations, and a little girl named Penny.

As a mother of a child with Down syndrome, and as a Christian, I was able to relate and appreciate Becker’s journey. I still find it incredible that somehow, with all of us being so different from one another; our children with Down syndrome teach us similar lessons.

The book is divided in 3 parts. The first 2 parts were my favorite “This Child” and, “Whoever Receives This Child, Receives Me”. Her last section “Just Penny” seemed to focus on her daughter and all that she is able to do. As much as I loved the first 2 parts, I wrestled with her last section. Penny seems to be a very “high functioning” child. So much indeed, that I had trouble “seeing” that she has Down syndrome. In fact, Penny seems to be “normal.” Penny’s speech, communication, and behavior at age 2 were outstanding, which made it hard for me to relate to her since my 4 year old is not there yet. And I felt guilty. Guilty that maybe I was not doing enough for my daughter. It made me wonder if her portrayal of Penny was accurate. It is other parents with kids with Down syndrome that will be drawn to her book, and I wonder if others will feel the same. Maybe not, maybe, Amy Julia’s book has simply challenged the insecurities I feel as Nichole’s mom

Overall, I liked her book. I appreciated her story. (I have edited this post)

Here you can download and read the first chapter of the book.

So, if you would like to get a copy of “A Good and Perfect Gift” by Amy Julia Becker, leave a comment! On Sunday (Nichole’s birthday) she will draw a name and Bethany House will send you a copy of the book!

And the winner is...

Book Review: Horse Dreams by Dandi Mackall

Horse Dreams

by

Dandi Daley Mackall

a

Tyndale Book

Ellie is a 10 year old girl who dreams, breaths, and thinks of horses. She has been praying, begging, and crying for a horse for as long as she can remember. So far, begging and crying have not worked, and she is aware those options are out. Her only hope is that God will answer her prayer. Then an ugly Pinto Horse shows up. A horse that does not look like Ellie’s idea of her dream horse. But could this be the answer to her prayer?


Horse Dreams is a cute story about a little girl that loves horses. If your child is a horse lover, they will certainly enjoy this book! It is a great chapter book to read to younger kids or for older elementary age kids that are reading on their own.

Personally, I loved the fact that Ellie’s brother is deaf. His “disability” is presented as a normal part of life and being. Kids that are not familiar with sign language or special needs will learn that kids are kids first, and disability is always second.

I read the story to my daughter (who is also named Ellie). I thought the book would be a hit with her. However, she is not a horse lover and this book was too “horsey” for her. However, had this been a story about Ellie liking dogs, she would have loved it! Mackall knows how to write for children.

I received this book for free by Tyndale publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review: The Canary List by Sigmund Brower

A WaterBrook Multnomah Book

The Canary List

By

Sigmund Brower

Jaimie feels as if Evil has been hunting her all of her life. There are only a few people she trusts: her therapist, who has been helping her fight Evil, and her teacher, Mr. G.
On a night where Evil hunts her, and unable to reach her therapist, Jaimie ends up at her teacher's house asking for help. All Grey Crokett wanted to do that night was celebrate the anniversary of her daughter's death, but instead, he finds himself helping one of his students. The unfolding of events that follow that night send Crokett searching for those that want Jaimie, and those that seem to want him out of the picture...but why? The answers lead him to the Vatican, and deep dark secrets that have been kept and hidden for a long time.

What I liked about this book:
-I could not put it down, the story was fascinating.
-If you like suspense/mystery, I think you will enjoy this book.
-Makes you think about the spiritual realm that we do not see.

There is nothing I did not like about the book. It is not a book that I will read again and again, but I really enjoyed it. I am a Tedd Dekker fan and Sigmund Brower is just as good. Actually, I enjoyed this novel better than the last few Dekker novels

You can read more about the book and the first chapter by clicking HERE.

I received this book for free by WaterbrookMultnomah in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review: Matar A Lutero by Mario Escobar

A Thomas Nelson Publishing

Nelson Publishing Spanish Book Description:

"Temo más lo que está dentro de mí, que lo que viene de fuera".—Martín Lutero



Un cuento apasionante de Martín Lutero de las mismas páginas de la historia. Era medianoche cuando el grupo de caballeros abandonó la ciudad. Los cascos de los caballos repiquetearon en el empedrado de sus calles hasta atravesar el Rin, la antigua frontera entre el civilizado mundo de Roma y los bárbaros. No habían tenido tiempo para recoger el equipaje, tan grave era la amenaza que se cernía sobre el protegido del príncipe Federico de Sajonia, y no había tiempo que perder. El grupo era reducido, sólo tres escoltas y el propio Lutero que cabalgaba torpemente sobre el caballo, poco acostumbrado a montar. El pobre monje se esforzaba por no retrasar el paso de su escolta. Mientras los fugitivos recorrían los campos próximos a la ciudad, sus habitaciones eran registradas por soldados del emperador Carlos. El capitán Felipe Diego de Mendoza se quejó: "Alguien les ha advertido, ahora tendremos que seguirlos por toda Alemania".

What a pleasure to read a book in my native language. Although, after reading the book and considering writing the review in Spanish, I realize how English has become my first language. The good news is, this book is available in English too. So you can always get a copy and enjoy the story.

I am not familiar with the story of Martin Luther and all that took place in the church during his time. I know little about church history (ironic, isn't is, since I am married to a pastor and Andy loves church history) and I was never a big fan of history. Why is this important? Because knowing little about church history and little about world history, it was hard for me to follow the story and recognize the characters. I was lost when it came to the political and religious figures of the time and I did not feel the story helped me understand who was who, what they did, and what was the significance of Martin Luther's movement at that time. I could not follow who was from France, who was from Spain, who was from Italy, and who was from Germany. I did not follow well who were the religious figures and who were the political ones.

This book narrates the story of Martin Luther's time when political and religious figures wanted to kill him.  He was hidden for a period of time in which he translated the New Testament into German. During his time of "exhile" he developed a close friendship with Juan Mendoza, the man in charge of protecting him, and Elisabeth, a young lady that cared for him. Luther changes their lives, teaches them to read, and teaches them about Christ. Eventually Juan and Elisabeth marry, which is the only happy moment in the story.

What I liked about the book:
-It was in Spanish.
-Mario Escobar is an artist with his words. A few times I re-read a sentence just for the pleasure of the written word.
-I did learn about Martin Luther and the conflict that he created withing the church and the world.
-The chapters were very short and easy to read. The longest chapter was only 4 pages long. It moved the story quickly.
-I was moved by the story.

What I did not like:
-Being a little ignorant on my history, I struggled to follow the other characters. The chapters were so short that for someone like me, it did not do enough to make me understand what was going on. I was not able to "fill in the blank" from my knowledge on history and I felt lost from chapter to chapter.
-Although the story moved quickly, because the chapters are short, I felt the story could have been elaborated better and the characters better developed. I wanted and needed more!

Overall:
For those history lovers, this is a great novel. Mario Escobar has a way with words and his writing in enjoyable. Personally, I struggled to get into the story, but I believe this is one of those instances where I recognize the brilliance of the book regardless of my personal preferences. I read a book in a genre I typically would not, and I was pleasantly surprised and confronted by the fact that I am quite ignorant when it comes to our world history.

Would I recommend this book? Yes, weather you read it in English or Spanish.

I recieved this book for free by Thomas Nelson Publisher in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review: The Inconvenient Marriage of Charlotte Beck

The Inconvenient Marriage of Charlotte Beck

A Novel

By

Kathleen Y'Barbo

This Western Historical Fiction takes place in the late 1800’s. Rich American girl, Charlotte, is spending time in England where she quite literally falls into the arms of Viscount Alex Hambly, the astronomer. Fate continues to bring Charlotte and Alex together. They dislike each other yet fancy each other with just as much intensity. The Hambly family is facing financial ruin, and Charlotte’s father wants to see her married to a respectable man. He makes an offer neither one can resist. Charlotte may go to the University and get her degree if she agrees to marry Alex. Daniel Beck will take care of the Hambly financial situation if Alex agrees to marry his daughter. Charlotte and Alex secretly plot to annul their marriage shortly after the wedding. But Alex’s heart is changed and he has no desire to annul his marriage, but rather, spend the rest of his life with Charlotte.


What I liked:

-It is a clean romance novel.

-I could not put the novel down, I found myself laughing aloud several times and smiling as I “listened” into Alex and Charlotte’s conversations. Somehow, although we really know little about whom these two really are deep inside, they really have great “chemistry” together and it is hard not to want to see them finally admit their feelings.

-It is a cute love story.

-It is a story that I would love to see as a movie! I think it would make a great romantic comedy, and it might be one of those where the movie is better than the book…

What I did not like:

-There are several characters that come into the story as part of what would seem a major plot line yet they quickly disappear leaving one wondering what happened to them. Like Alex’s twin brother.

-Characters were shallow, lacking in depth. Who are they? How do they feel and why? Why is Charlotte insecure? Why does she not want to get married? Why is Alex angry with his family? Or is he?

-Some significant elements of family relationships were not explored or explained throughout the book. For example, we know from the beginning that Charlotte lost her mother in some way. We also know that she is not to ask or talk about her and Charlotte is quite affected by this. Yet, we never know why. The resolution to the issue with her mother was quite disappointing. All of a sudden, there were connections from several characters going back to the mother only to be resolved in a quick exchange of words and moving on too easily.

In general:

-This is really just a story about Charlotte and Alex liking each other and pretending that they don’t. The rest of the story is weak in plot and characters.

-It is not a Christian book. If you are looking for a Karen Kingsbury book where the characters are rooted in faith and talk about their relationship with God, this is not it. It is a clean book and a cute story, but do not look for a Christian element to it. Sure, Alex is a “man of prayer” but it is not a relationship with God that we see throughout the book. The few times “faith” is brought up seems forced into the story as it is not a main element or consistent with the characters. Charlotte’s dad does pray for the newlywed couple, a prayer that makes Alex decide he will not annul the marriage and do what he can to stay married. But that’s it.

-Overall I liked it, but I found myself closing the book and wanting more, almost like I had not read the entire story and feeling like some pretty significant issues were never talked about.

-I thought it was a fun read, and it had me turning the pages late into the night. Nevertheless, I would warn the reader not to expect solid writing with great plot and character development, as fun as it was and as much as it grabbed me, I felt let down as I read the last page.

-In her acknowledgements, Y’Barbo writes to her husband, and we learn she finished the book while on their honeymoon, where she was tempted to rename the book “The Never Ending Story” Information that made me understand maybe why her book resolution was so weak, and so disappointing. But I still give her some credit, because Alex and Charlotte sure had great chemistry and they made me laugh several times.

You can read the first chapter of the book HERE as well as see some more information about the book from the publsiher's website.

I received this book for free by Waterbrook Multnomah publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Music Review: World of Praise Instrumental Hymns

Do you enjoy instrumental music? Do you hear rhythms and they touch your heart, make you want to get up and dance, or simply close your eyes so you can really feel the music?

Ever since I was a little girl, classical music was played in my home. The love of classical music drew to instrumental music. There is something about just music that speaks to my heart. There are no words, no noise, just music. And if you "speak" music, you also know that music is not just music.

"World of Praise" is a compilation of hymns with music from different countries.From Latin rhythms , the deep soul of India to the clogging Irish music.  I knew the words for some of the hymns, yet the music was different and I could not help but imagine what heaven will be like, when we all come together, all so different, but praising the same God.

If you enjoy instrumental music, I think you will enjoy "World of Praise:Instrumental Hymns."

I received this CD for free by Discovery House Music in exchange for my honest review.re

Book Review: Save Your Marriage in Five Minutes a Day

Save Your Marriage in Five Minutes a Day

By

Bonnie Jacobsen

Save Your Marriage In Five Minutes a Day is a practical book with advice on how to make the best out of ordinary, everyday interactions. Sometimes life becomes a boring routine, and the spark of marriage can be snuffed out by the everyday of making meals, caring for children, and tolerating our jobs.


In this book, there are practical ways in which one can make an ordinary situation, something a little bit less ordinary. How a simple shoulder squeeze can make a difference, or how the tone of voice can change a response. These are simple, reasonable things that anyone can do, and that really do make a difference, and can help a marriage stay strong.

As practical as this book is, I found a significant downfall. Each practical suggestion is accompanied by a scenario where a husband and wife interact. The scenarios are common, situations that you can see happening, but the interactions between husband and wife? I found them to be unrealistic. In every scenario, one spouse seemed to be a collected therapist, in situations where most people would be hurt. In fact, I personally do not know of a couple that would really interact in such a way, not when emotions and hurt feelings are in the mix.

I recieved this book for free by Booksneeze.com in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review: God Gave Us Two

A Waterbrook Multnomah Book

God Gave us Two

By

Lisa Tawn Bergren

This children's book is part of the continuing story of little cub, as she is now going to become a big sister. A heartwarming story where Mama and Papa Bear help Little Bear see how to celebrate being a big sister. Just like God gave them little bear, now God was sending them another blessing for the family, one in which little bear gets to participate.

Mama Bear's tummy keeps getting bigger as time goes by, and her lap is getting smaller. Finally, the day comes when grandma and grandpa bear come and stay with little cub while mama and papa go to the hospital. A great surprise awaits little cub when mama bear and papa bear show up not with one, but two baby cubs.

The illustrations by Laura Bryant are beautiful, and the story is cute.

When my oldest was going to become a big sister, we looked for books that would help her understand and prepare her for her role as a big sister. I would not necessarily recommend this book over any of the other books that we have. Same story, same message.

My girls liked the story, although they were very confused about weather little cub was a boy or a girl.

You can click here for additional book details.

I received this book for free by the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

31 Days of Drawing Near to God by Ruth Myers

Ruth Myers knows what it is like to rest securely in His delight. In this short devotional book, Ruth Myers shares with us instances in her life where her personal and intimate love relationship with God carried her through. She finishes each chapter with a prayer, and suggested Bible reading for the day.


I really enjoyed this book and it was an easy read. For every chapter, Ruth shares about a particular time in her life where a specific aspect of God’s love helped her face the days ahead. I found her personal story fascinating and a real testimony to what she was “preaching.” She is a woman that knows the grief of losing a husband and holding on to God as the source of all she needs. Her life and struggles as a missionary are touching as she shares the deep love of Christ as it sustained her during those moments when she could have chosen to turn back.

I am not one to read devotional books, but this is one that I would recommend and one that I enjoyed.

You can click here to read the first chapter of the book.

I received this book for free by Waterbrook Multnomah in exchanged for my honest review.

A Conversation with God for Women by Marcia Ford

If You Could Ask God Any Question, What Would It Be? In her book, A Conversation With God for Women, Marcia Ford addresses questions such as:


“If you love us, why do we suffer?”

“What is your purpose for me, here and now?”

“How can the Bible still be relevant?”

“How can anybody find good in tragedy?”

The questions presented in this book are real. They are the sort of questions that many of us have asked at some point or another as the storms of life and the questioning of uncertainty attack us. Some of these questions have come to us from places of deep pain, from places of grief and loss, and sometimes even places of selfishness.

For each question there is an answer from Jesus, an answer from God, and in many of the questions, there is an answer from a woman in the Bible.

I was captivated by the title of the book, because in all honesty, I dream of a day where I get to sit with God or Jesus over a cup of coffee and talk about life. During our conversation, I am sure some these questions would come up.

However, I did receive this book for free by booksneeze.com in exchange for my honest review.

When I picture a conversation with God, I picture dialogue, understanding, and connection. The writing was strong, and the Biblical and Theological foundations of the answers to the questions were also strong… but there was little conversation. I felt like there were 55 questions with short little sermons to follow. The book spoke to my intellect but not to my heart. I did not feel like I was changed or challenged after reading the book and I am positive that if I were to have a conversation with God, I would be forever changed. Ford’s “voice” for God and Jesus were weak for me, I heard her voice as if she was God and Jesus, but I had a hard time seeing God or Jesus responding in such an impersonal, matter-of-fact way.

I would recommend this book to someone that was an analytical thinker; someone that needs the facts aside from emotion. This is actually a great book for logical thinkers, as the content and writing are strong. However, I like to read what connects with my heart, something that moves me into a deeper relationship with Jesus and something that challenges my way of living. Therefore, if you are more like me, you might struggle to read through this book.

I received this book for free from booksneeze.com in exchange for my honest review.