Book Review: 101 Hymn Stories

Just before my May birthday, I was in Goodwill seeking some business attire for my youngest son's internship (at Rolls Royce). I skimmed through their books (although their raised prices put me off). I snapped a quick photo of this book, 101 Hymn Stories, and sent the photo to my husband, hoping he'd mention it to my sons as a gift idea. Alas, I was not gifted this book. However, I found it in audio form on Hoopla through my library. 

I thoroughly enjoyed the simple stories behind so many beloved hymns. If you are interested in hymns, I highly recommend the audio version, since it allows you to hear the melodies with lyrics recited in the background. Indeed, when I think of all the hymns I know, it is staggering. I was raised in church and probably have thousands of hymns memorized. What a great background of theology in my brain. And, to think many of these follow scripture, so I'm planting the Word in my head and heart.

The author, Kenneth W. Osbeck, compiled a second book called 101 More Hymn Stories. Sadly, it is not available in audio form. I found it in paperback, so that will have to suffice. These stories would be excellent to include in church bulletins or sermon illustrations. I've been using the Sing hymnal I received for Mother's Day during my morning devotions. Thankfully, nobody else is awake to hear me as I sing (or croak) two hymns and read the snippets of information provided at the back of the hymnal (not nearly as in-depth as Osbeck's stories). Singing, as Isaac Serrano reminds us in When Life Feels Empty, is an essential spiritual practice lending meaning to our lives.

Book Review: We Are Never Getting Together

I listened to this fun young adult novel in June. We Are Never Getting Together by Janette Rallison is a clean read. It tells the story of Madeline and Cooper, whose pranks against each other land them in the principal's office. Their parents are called in and seem obviously attracted to one another. Thus, Madeline and Cooper decide to fake date in hopes of keeping their parents apart. The pranks are fun. The tension ramps up. Of course, they cannot stay enemies forever, especially while pretending to be a couple. I liked Cooper more than Madeline, but did come around to her by the end of the story. There are so few clean YA reads out there. This one was worth the time investment.

Series Review: The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion - Highly Recommend

Following the buzz, in June, I dipped my toe into the delightful world of The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion and did not want to depart. In very short order, I listened to Volumes 1-8 on the Hoopla app. I cannot wait for the ninth installment to release (although I worry my library will not have access, or I will be far down on the hold list). I will seek it in audio form again. The narrator Genevieve Gaunt does an outstanding job! If you enjoy Victorian England, these books will surely hook you!

Emma M. Lion is a young woman alone in Victorian England. Although her parents' deaths should have left her with Lapis Lazuli House, an odd relative has been living there and ripping through her inheritance monies. Now that she is finally ensconsed in the house, she seeks to rectify these wrongs and find her place in society. Her journals are delightful. The cast of characters surrounding her make the reader wish to enter this world for real.

I was thrilled when Emma mentioned the very street I lived on when I spent six months on a work visa in London, Sydenham Hill. With each installment, I was sucked deeper and deeper into the story. Emma is fiesty and independent. Her friends are colorful and conflicted. You cannot help but be swept away into this alternate reality.

My only complaint is that the books attempt to push a feminist agenda. I know Victorian London. Emma would not have waltzed independently through life in those times. Yet, still... I absolutely loved these books! I'm willing to suspend disbelief, to overlook historical inaccuracies, because I love Emma and all her entourage of young male friends (suitors?). I love her stream-of-consciousness commentary. Each book ends with a listing of her growing library of books. This is enchanting! I highly recommend this series, and especially in audio form. I'm even hoping the books will continue well past book nine.

Book Review: Now and Forever

I tend to avoid science fiction books. Indeed, I'm pretty sure I picked this up on a 30-second jaunt into the library to find an audio book for car rides. Ray Bradbury comes at the start of the alphabet. Thus, I attempted this short book, Now and Forever, containing two novellas. While it did kill time for me, it wasn't as entertaining or as thought-provoking as Fahrenheit 451, by any means.

I enjoyed the first novella, "Somewhere a Band is Playing." This story, of a man compelled to jump off a train to explore a strange town, held a certain amount of intrigue. However, I soured on the second novella, "Leviathan '99," a science-fiction version of Moby Dick. In my younger years, I found Melville's Moby Dick tiresome. This one was even more so. It was not "spellbinding," nor was I "entranced," as the back cover promised. Oh, well, sometimes you venture into foreign territory to a pleasant surprise. Other times, you realize you should stick to what interests you.

Book Review: A Sketch of the Life and Labors of George Whitefield

After experiencing A Great Awakening in the theater, I returned home raving about the powerful movie. It provided such a clear and accurate presentation of the gospel. Though your sins be as scarlet, Christ offers to wash them white as snow if you accept His free gift of salvation, bought for you in a transaction on the cross. George Whitefield was a revival preacher during America's Great Awakening (1734-1743). His story is fascinating and I wanted to delve deeper. A commenter on Facebook mentioned J. C. Ryle's book, A Sketch of the Life and Labors of George Whitefield. Ryle is the author of one of my favorite pamphlets, Do You Pray? I couldn't wait to explore his research into Whitefield. I borrowed it in audio form on Hoopla the next day.

I believe J. C. Ryle presented this as a lecture at some point. He gives a very direct description of Whitefield's life and ministry. He affirmed something mentioned in the movie, "He was immortal until his work was done." Whitefield preached a clear and concise gospel. He addressed man's complete ruin by sin, man's complete redemption by Christ and complete justification before God by faith in Christ, and man's need of regeneration by the spirit. His cry was convicting, "While ye were sinners, Christ died for you." He explained the transaction: the just for the unjust. He asserted even the vilest sinner could stand complete and righteous before the throne of God through Jesus' sprinkled blood that washes the blackest sins away. One has only to believe and be saved, to ask and receive, to wash and be clean. This is the pure and true gospel.

One thing I loved about the movie was the clear doctrine of the new birth. Once saved, as is evident in baptism, one is buried with Christ, washed and cleansed, and raised with him, a new creature. The Holy Spirit enters in and guides one in sanctification. The presence of the Holy Spirit is a seal of inheritance, proving one is born into God's family. Physically and spiritually, you cannot be unborn after He has sealed you with a promise of eternal life. How I want to emulate Whitefield's persistent goal, that his own name perish, so long as Christ only is exalted!

Book Review: The Exiles

The audiobook of The Exiles jumped out at me from the shelves at the library. I have a graduate degree in Victorian British history. Thus, the transport of criminals to Australia during that period interests me. Christina Baker Kline weaves a compelling story about women caught in poverty and exiled. This story made my drive time (trips to transport Sean from Purdue) a real treat.

In early nineteenth-century London, Evangeline's governess life is about to evaporate. The employer's son seduces her and gives her an heirloom ring as a promise when he departs on holiday. Accused of stealing the ring, she is imprisoned and sent to a penal colony in Australia. On the convict ship, she befriends a midwife named Hazel.

The progress of Evangeline and Hazel is juxtaposed against the story of Mathinna, an Aboriginal girl exiled from her people and taken as a curiousity by the new governor's wife. Unfairly treated and too poor to stand up for themselves, Evangeline, Hazel, and Mathinna, endure humiliations and deprivations. Yet, they band together to make their way in the world.

There is a definite deliniation between the wealthy and the poor. Sadly, this presentation of colonization is undoubtedly accurate. What a hardship to think of being sent an ocean away for a crime you didn't commit! Even Hazel, who stole a silver spoon, is not treated with the respect she deserves for her vast knowledge of natural remedies. These are tragic characters living in harsh conditions. Yet, there is hope and camaraderie, even in the gloomy Van Diemen's Land. Kline does a fine job of crafting characters and plot. I was glad of those longer trips that allowed deeper listening. It was fascinating to consider Australia in the time of England's convict transporation. I noted from the back cover that it has been optioned for television. If it is accessible, I will happily watch.

Book Review: Humankind

I love the cover of this bestselling book, Humankind: Changing the World One Small Act at a Time! It is gorgeous! If we all moved through life seeking the good of others, this world might be easier to endure. Yet, this book falls short of full and effective kindness. I believe man's greatest need is salvation found in faith in Christ! However, this too, is a need for kindness because if we do not reach out with the gospel to our neighbors and friends, how will they ever know the grace God offers? My heart breaks over the rampant evil in this world. I wonder, how can God hold back His judgment another day? Surely, He is coming soon. Are you ready for His return? Will He take you out of this evil world and give you eternal life with Him?

Brad Aronson's life changed when his wife received her leukemia diagnosis. Suddenly, people stepped up and into their lives. He noticed the dramatic effects of kindness. In cataloguing acts of kindness, he hopes to encourage others to step up and meet needs that will impact lives. This book is bursting with stories of heroes doing little things with big impact. The examples are heartwarming and inspirational. Each chapter ends with encouragement to take action. It contains so many inspirational quotes.

Even if you don't take time to read this book, you can visit Aronson's website to gain tons of ideas for putting love in action to meet the needs of others. When life is getting you down, take a moment to read one of Brad's inspirational stories. If you're willing to give your email address, you can sign up for regular doses of kindness and inspiration. Perhaps you'd like to read the book with your book club. Aronson offers discussion questions and is willing to field specific questions if you submit them to him.

This book offers such a positive message: Step out in kindness and reap big rewards for little actions!. Now, I want to see transformation on an even grander scale. What if your private prayer, your tiny testimony, and your enticing example led others to the living water of Christ? Oh, the needs that might be met, if you spent five minutes in prayer for a brokenhearted brother or a crushed colleague! I hope my life is full of tangible kindness. But, even more, I hope my life exudes, indeed spreads everywhere, "the fragrance of the knowledge of Him." (2 Corinthians 2:14)

Book Review: Sipsworth

The cover is enticing and the title perplexing. Sipsworth, a novel by Simon Van Booy, tells the story of Helen Cartwright, a woman waiting to die. After spending six decades in Australia, and burying her husband and son, Helen returns to England to live out her remaining years. For the first few hours I listened, I was confused where the story was going. Helen establishes a relationship with a small mouse she accidentally transports from someone else's rubbish into her home.

Two-thirds into the book, the reader's understanding shifts in the most unexpected way. Though slow to get going, this book is thoroughly compelling. It treats so many important aspects of older age: invisibility, loneliness, second chances, the importance of kindness, and legacy. What a delightful journey with an octagenarian and her pint-sized pet! 

Book Review: The Lawyer and the Laundress

When I finished my last audiobook on Hoopla, I skimmed through the recommendations. The Lawyer and the Laundress had an interesting cover and promised a clean read. Lately, I've tried several popular titles and, quite far in, abandoned them. I abandoned Taylor Reid Jenkins' Atmosphere (despite the good writing and compelling investment in the story) when, halfway through, the main character visits a strip club and is titillated by the experience. Census, by Jesse Ball, was stilted. It also failed to be engaging or clean. Interested in Claire Foy's movie H is for Hawk, I attempted to read that book prior to seeing the film. It was quickly abandoned and I'm glad I didn't go to see the movie with my husband, despite my love of Claire Foy's performances. Finally, I just abandoned The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue. It gets discouraging.

The Lawyer and the Laundress takes place in 1837 Canada, during a time of political unrest. A widowed lawyer, James Kinney, is struggling to raise his feisty daughter Evie. She is miserable at her lessons under a strict and ineffective teacher. As such, she seeks the friendship of the laundress, Sara O'Connor. Sara is no ordinary laundress, as she knows French and effectively teaches Evie. James eventually seeks Sara to serve as Evie's governess. As romance blossoms between the two of them, political unrest threatens their lives.

I just learned this is a Carol Award Finalist. For a debut novel, it was well-written and engaging. The characters are compelling. Evie is delightful. The plot moves at a reasonable pace with plenty of conflicts. Most of all, I appreciated the tasteful treatment of the romantic tension simmering between Sara and James. Christine Hill Suntz manages to write it with sizzle, without smut. Why can't all authors stick to that?  

Book Review: Strangers in Time

Surprisingly, I've never read a David Baldacci novel before. The name is familiar and popular, but this was my first foray, with Strangers in Time. Isn't this cover beautiful? I snagged the audio book version from my library and was really enjoying listening to the narration. Sadly, it came due (large hold list) and I was able to finish reading the book in large print, hardback form (less demand). I'm wishing I'd been able to hear the whole novel.

Charlie Matters is a 14-year-old who knows his way around London. He knows his way around rules, as well. When he robs The Book Keep bookshop, his conscience gets the better of him and returns the money and the book. Ignatius Oliver, the owner, insists on giving him the book. Charlie is tempted to sell the book. It could bring him 5 pounds and that might go a long way to helping Charlie and his grandmother keep up with bills.

Molly Wakefield is returning to her posh London home, after a spell away in the country for safety. She expects to find her mother and father at home, but is greeted by only her nanny. She hires Charlie to help her look for her father, but they have no success. Charlie, Molly, and Ignatius weather the storms of war together and look out for each other. They each carry heavy personal burdens, but bearing it together lightens the load.

The narration sucked me into the story. Yet, I had a harder time staying riveted when reading on my own. The book has likeable characters and brings wartime London to life. It is quite like many other WWII novels, but the writing is clean and good. I would be willing try another by this author, but perhaps not another war novel.

Book Review: The English Masterpiece

This was February's read for the Christian Fiction Reading Challenge I joined. At one time, I picked up Katherine Reay's Dear Mr. Knightley. It wasn't the right timing for me, and I set it aside. This time, however, I was enthralled by Reay's well-woven story of an alleged forgery. I listened to The English Masterpiece on Hoopla and loved the distinct, alternating narration of the two main characters, Lily and Diana. It made my morning exercise and chores slip by unnoticed.

When I lived in London, I visited the Tate Gallery (purchased a lovely card game of painting sets). How fun to return to that setting, albeit in an earlier timeframe! Lily eagerly anticipates the 1973 opening of a Picasso exhibit she helped prepare. Her boss, the art curator, Diana Gilden, hopes to advance in her job as a result of their work. Instead, with one uncontrolled whisper of "forgery," Lily has put everything in jeopardy. Lily's own asperations of showing a painting in an upcoming Emerging Artists Exhibition may be foiled, as well. But, as we all sadly learn, once words slip out, you cannot undo them.

What follows is a carefully plotted chase to determine the truth behind the painting and its provenance. The insurance company calls up an American detective, Conor Walsh. When he finds a student studio full of Lily's copies of the masters, suspicion shifts to Lily. Walsh and Lily feel pulled toward each other, but the mystery remains the focus. She is closed off to others, but will she open up to Conor?

I loved the pacing, and the characters were well-drawn. Lily's back-story was interesting. I was thrilled to explore the world of early-70s London. The writing was such that I forgot there was a puppet-master pulling the strings. My mind was gripped with the unfolding mystery. I'm so glad I read this book, and I cannot wait to seek another Katherine Reay novel.

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My favorite passage of all came toward the end of the book, when Lily is ruminating on the assessment of talent. Her words, about painting, could equally apply to writing. "Next week, I'll find out how far I'm willing to stretch, how vulnerable I can make myself, and how much of myself I'm willing to splay onto a canvas. Whether the art world chooses to laud my efforts or eviscerate them is beyond my control... As Picasso taught me, the act of painting is the vivisection of one's soul, splayed out before the world in a two dimensional format. And in art, as in life, success lies in holding nothing back. The world can hate it, but I can still have a marvelous time." 

Book Review: The Well-Watered Woman

I appreciate author Jordan Raynor's weekly book recommendations (although, I realize, many he hasn't actually read). When he mentioned Gretchen Saffles' book, The Well-Watered Woman, I noted it on my endless reading wish list. Then, I experienced a God-thing a few months back, repeatedly encountering the story of the woman at the well. Each time, the teaching held a little different angle. By the fifth time, it was clearly something God wanted me to camp on for a time. So, I returned to this title and checked out the audio version. This is an excellent, Bible-rich book.

The Well-Watered Woman encourages readers to seek the well of living water, the word of freedom, and the way of fruitfulness. Every chapter presents a hypothetical thirsty woman. This taps into each of our longings and needs. She outlines the transaction: bring your nothing; receive His everything. She asks, "Are you trusting in Jesus plus something... or are you trusting Jesus alone?" 

The Word is our water - Deposit truth so you can withdraw during times of drought.

The Word is our protection - "We fight from the victory of Jesus, not for victory. Victory has already been claimed at the cross."

The Word is our roots - "Every desert season has a purpose--nothing is wasted in the kingdom of God."

I loved her encouragement to look for gospel intersections everywhere. It brought me back to my verse of the year (2 Cor. 2:14) and my daily pursuit to live out the fragrance of the knowledge of Him. I loved another beautiful section where she spoke of often overlooked wildflowers. Growth may be ongoing, even when it is underground or unnoticed. Some blooms take years to develop and bud. Moroever, she reminds that the well-watered woman lives a counter-cultural life. Does my life look too much like the world? Do I blend in or stand out for God?

For more from this author, seek her ministry, The Well-Watered Woman, which she has based on Isaiah 58:11 ("And the LORD shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not." KJV)

Book Review: Reports of His Death Have Been Greatly Exaggerated

The title of this novel comes from a passage in Mark Twain's story where Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn are presumed dead. So begins James Goodhand's colorful book, Reports of His Death Have Been Greatly Exaggerated. Ray "Spike" Thorns spent years working as a caretaker on the grounds of a posh boarding school. Now, he spends his days visiting re-sale shops, picking through trash, and trying to bring life to things that have been tossed aside. This is an apt image for the book, as a whole. Then, Ray's neighbor comes over to warm up because his heat is off. Ray offers him a warm bath while he heads off to pick up some Chinese takeaway, never thinking for a moment the man might experience a medical emergency. When paramedics cart off the dying man, they mistakenly assume it is Ray. It takes some time for Ray to set things right. In that time, we learn Ray's life story and we root him on in his efforts to deal with unexpected and complicated difficulties.

As a writer, I'm always on the hunt for excellent writing. Sometimes I will even read books with cautionary content. Listening to this 2026 Audi Awards Finalist was a delight. The book hooked me with its premise and held me with its promise, in spite of activities and worldviews I don't sanction. Ray is a likeable, if sad, character. He's not convinced his life has held much meaning. Sure, he can repair things, but is that enough? I'm so glad I didn't set this book aside, but plowed through anyway. The payoff was well worth enduring unsavory things.

We all wish to feel like we matter. We crave purpose and fulfillment in our lives. Too often, we underestimate the impact we've made. This is a beautiful book about a man who is mistaken for dead, only to realize that he's forgotten to truly live. His journey to correct the error is a delight! It is a poignant tale of life-shaping losses, enduring influences, and second chances. If only we could all get a glimpse of the way our lives have touched others. It would certainly keep us going. This is a book that sticks with you.

📒 - Content Caution

Book Review: Companions in the Darkness

There are some who, having had the blues, feel they understand clinical depression. From their perspective, especially if they consider themselves Christians, they see it as a lack of faith. Too often, Christians with clinical depression are given well-meaning advice like, "choose joy," "just pray," or, "just read the Word more." Indeed, I watched a video by Millicent Sedra touting a "name it, claim it" perspective. She is a new internet sensation and ends with that very advice, "get your eyes off yourself and onto the Lord." I don't wish clinical depression on anyone, but those who have never known the depth seem all too quick to cast judgement on those who walk in darkness. This book, Companions in the Darkness, highlights seven saints who battled severe depression. I can't imagine anyone turning to Spurgeon and saying, "You choose your identity. Get your eyes off yourself, man!"

Diana Gruver has written a book that is highly important and a must-read if you're a Christian battling clinical depression. Companions in the Darkness: Seven Saints Who Struggled with Depression and Doubt yells with a megaphone, "You are not alone! You are not useless!" Diana Gruver outlines the lives and strategies of seven key figures like Charles Spurgeon, Martin Luther, and Mother Teresa. Many of the seminal hymns we sing were written by individuals familiar with this battle. It is possible to face doubt and despair in the midst of strong faith in God.

Indeed, I can see Gruver writing a follow-up book with the same message, focusing on greats of the Bible. There is a place for lament (Lamentations, David's psalms of lament). Prophets expressed depths of despair to the point of no longer wanting to live. Moses, in Numbers 11:15, declared to God, "I'd rather you kill me!" Job was perfect and upright. He feared God and eschewed evil. He was considered such a threat that Satan was determined to break him. In the midst of his physical, emotional, and spiritual battle, Job wished his life would end (Chapters 3, 7, 10). Can you see a self-righteous Christian today saying to Ezekiel, "Stop being self-indulgent! Gain some spiritual maturity, will you? You're looking at your circumstances and lacking in your faith. Your doubt is sin."

From Martin Luther's life, the reader learns the spiritual lesson of looking to the wounds of Christ. (Indeed, too many Christians seem to forget that Christ himself was despairing to the point of sweating drops of blood. Should the disciples have chastized him with, "Get your eyes off yourself?") If Christ bore wounds and the intense separation from the Father to atone for our sin debt, we can look to those wounds to help us endure the abyss. Luther also advised others to flee solitude and chase the smallest glimmers of joy that can be found.

From Hannah Allen's life we learn the imporance of journaling. This reminds us how God has intervened in the past. It also helps us recall the truths of the faith. Hannah's life encourages us to change our surroundings, as this sometimes helps. Sometimes, like David Brainerd, you must "choose to go, rather than stay." Forcing yourself to do what feels impossible, the next thing, moves you closer to healing. With Brainerd, may we say, "May every breath bring God glory and leave a legacy of faithful weakness."

The great hymn-writer William Cooper was incapacitated by depression and felt himself "on the rack." He, too, encourages us to seek a change of scenery and keep busy. His story reminds us to exercise, get outdoors, and be merry by force. Another great lesson I learn from Cooper's story is to "cling to the people God has brought into your life."

What a testimony Charles Spurgeon's life was. Gruver writes, "He also would not tolerate the accusation that good Christians do not get depressed. 'God's people sometimes walk in darkness and see no light.'" He was incredibly useful in spite of suffering physical pain and mental anguish. He preached thousands of sermons and sent countless letters. He was a wounded healer. I love that Gruver emphasized Isaiah 48:10, "I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction." At the end of this section, Gruver shared a letter she received in the midst of a dark spell. Her friend wrote these powerful words,"You are brave! You stand in the dark, whispering truth to yourself!"

In the section on Mother Teresa, Gruver comments on why depressed individuals often cannot take in the well-meaning reminder that God is close to the brokenhearted. She says, "That truth doesn't resonate in our icy hearts... prayer is different in the dark. It is filled with pain and longing." Mother Teresa walked with an unseen limp, a spiritual burden of feeling like God was absent. Yet, we must be obedient even in the limping, because like Gruver says, "He created you... with a beautiful way only you can image Him to the world." What a great reminder!

Finally, Gruver highlights Martin Luther King, Jr. He did not speak of his depression and did not seek any treatment, but those close to him recognized his despair and anguish. He battled sleeplessness. Exhaustion often exacerbates depression. He tapped four reservoirs: 1) the reservoir of resilience (press ahead regardless of opposition); 2) the reservoir of humor (laughter is a coping mechanism that keeps the demons at bay); 3) the reservoir of song (spirituals and songs like "Joshua Fit the Battle" inspired hope); and 4) the reservoir of spirituality (cosmic companionship - he said, "God's companionship does not stop at the cell door; God is your cell mate.").

Don't think this book is not for you if you've never battled depression. Chances are great that you know or have met someone who has. In the first appendix, Gruver offers ten useful steps to take when helping a friend/loved one who is depressed. In the second appendix, she provides brief biographies of each of the seven key figures. I probably took notes more intensely than usual. I need to return to these reminders and strategies when my own clinical depression pulls me under. Indeed, I may return to this book when life hits extra hard and, in spite of sound faith, my emotions and feelings threaten to overwhelm. It is a treasure chest of encouragement. 

Book Review: Uneasy Street

Uneasy Street, by Becky Wade, was the first book selection for the Christian Fiction Reading Challenge. Many individuals balked because it is the 3rd in the Sons of Scandal trilogy. While I prefer to read books in order, I had no difficulty reading this as a stand-alone novel. It was a wholesome romance that follows two wounded people from friendship to alienation to tolerance to love.

Sloane Madison has had a troubled upbringing. One bright spot is her deceased sister's daughter, Ivy. When Ivy's adoptive parents go away for a house-swap trip, they leave Ivy in Sloane's charge and put them up in the guest house on a wealthy property. It seems like a horrid trick when Sloane discovers the owner of the property is none other than her former business partner, Max Cirillo. Max wants closure but Sloane wants nothing to do with him. His lack of concern and spiteful retaliation in the past require forgiveness Sloane cannot muster.

Forgiveness is a key theme in this book. From neglect to misunderstandings to adulterous mistresses, there's lots of forgiveness fodder. Ivy has her own sub-plot as she searches for her biological father and discovers an unexpected wrinkle in her adoption story. I loved Ivy and her rats. I even liked Sloane, in spite of her constant bristle with Max. Max was physically swoony, but I struggled to feel as drawn to him as the others. 

Each character comes with baggage and that baggage is steadily unpacked throughout the story. I loved the concept of giving to others what you need for yourself. So Sloane is learning to seek to meet the needs in others that she wishes her family had met for her in her childhood. Although I was unable to make the Zoom call interview with the author, I did watch it at a later point in time. My favorite part of that interview was when Becky articulated the truth that everyone experiences a novel differently because we come at the story with different histories, perspectives, and needs. I think this is also why you can read a novel at one point and then later, in reading again, experience it in a whole different way. If you are interested in watching that interview (including reader questions), click here.

I will happily try another Becky Wade book at some point, but I've too many books on my stack to seek the first and second in this trilogy. Indeed, before I even read this book, I had taken this screen shot of the author's declaration that all of her books are written without AI. In this day and age, that's a promise I want to bank on in books I read.

Book Review: When Life Feels Empty - Highly Recommend

I can't remember who recommended Isaac Serrano's book, When Life Feels Empty. Perhaps it was someone in the Rabbit Room Chinwag group on Facebook. They recommend excellent books. I needed the content of this book to remind me where to plug into the source of power and hope. This was another book I listened to in audio form and then accessed in ebook form, so I could take notes.

We live in a world ruled by a materialistic worldview. As such, we are influenced by that mindset. We cannot get away from this lens that assumes the physical is all that exists. Without telos (life purpose and meaning), we feel empty. With excellent structure, Serrano outlines why we feel empty, 7 practices to address this, and why those practices work to shape us into who we were meant to be.

From the book of Ecclesiastes, we explore the idea that "everything is vanity (hevel)." If our gaze is horizontal, we will feel that way. Only when we fix our gaze vertically, do we grasp the telos necessary for enduring this life. We were meant to be trees, growing vertically. Instead, we waste time in emptiness and addictions. Serrano emphasizes that "belief must be embodied." The seven practices he outlines seek to help us do just that.

The first practice stunned me. I realized if I had incorporated this practice into my weekly fasting, I would have left my prayer times impressed instead of distressed. The first of seven beneficial practices is song. Singing releases oxytocin. Even heartbeats sync when singing together. Singing of God's mercy and love roots us in those promises. I intend to pursue this practice far more.

Serrano explains the next two practices. Baptism is storytelling with our body, a physical manifestation of the new life we receive in Christ. Communion roots us in time. We celebrate the past (Christ's body broken), the present (the new covenant through His blood), and the future (His return). Another way he puts it: baptism is the wedding and communion is the wedding ring.

The fourth practice is another one I intend to hone in on more. Serrano demonstrates that God's will is for us to express thanksgiving. He recommends we even face the east (the position of Christ's return) while we do so. I have implemented prayer far more in the past several years, but have I sufficiently incorporated thanksgiving in those prayer times?

The final three practices? Read the Bible (so essential for fixing our gaze vertically instead of horizontally). Attend church (we were meant for community - indeed, isolation destroys health and longevity and even breeds addiction). Pray the Lord's Prayer (there is a reason Christ gave this as an example. Why don't we use it more regularly?). 

The last section is equally instructive as he outlines why we should not be "conformed to the spirit of the age." God is a sculptor, forming us into a masterpiece. Following these ancient spiritual practices lends meaning to our lives and works with God instead of against Him. I highly recommend this deeper consideration of well-known practices that are proven essential. What a great book! I intend to visit this one again in the future.

Book Review: Statistically Speaking

Once again, I sought a British novel on Hoopla so I could listen to the British accent. The title, Statistically Speaking, clued me in that it might be similar to a favorite of mine, The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight. Yes, a character in the novel uses statistics, historical facts, and numbers as a coping mechanism. Yes, there's romance. And, yes, there's also deep pain and scars to face with or without numbers.

Gemma Jones is a history teacher in her thirties. Raised by an addict and then in foster care, she latches onto tangible things to battle the intangibles thrown her way. One such intangible is the existence, somewhere out there, of the daughter she gave up for adoption when she was 16. Now that daughter is about to turn 18. When Gemma's new student resembles her, it sets Gemma's mind whirling. The statistical probability is small, but... what if she is her long-lost daughter?

I enjoyed this emotional story of mother love, female friendship, and found family. Gemma is a likable, conflicted character. I loved the friendship that develops between Gemma, her housemate, the young student, and the student's mum. Such bonds are rare and precious. If you are in need of a feel good story, this Debbie Johnson novel is a perfect pick.

Book Review: The Little Liar

In tallying up my Mitch Albom reads, it appears I've read six of his books. My last Albom book, The Stranger in the Lifeboat, was not my favorite. Indeed, I'd say over time, my opinion of his books has shifted. Am I maturing? Perhaps my taste in books is shifting? Critics have said he is overly sentimental and preachy. I get that. Yet, I've usually found something of value in his books.

The Little Liar is slightly reminiscent of Marcus Zusak's The Book Thief. Both stories take place in World War II and use unique narrators. Zusak's outstanding book uses Death to tell about a girl who saves books. Albom uses Truth to tell about a boy who is tricked into telling a lie that endangers his family. While Zusak's book is far stronger, I did enjoy watching the paths of four different characters intersect in Albom's book. 

Indeed, I marvelled at his writing skills. I felt invested in these characters. They were well drawn and full of humanity. What's more, Albom was able to weave each portion of the story to the point of a powerful merging in the final act (this felt reminiscent of the climax in Anthony Doerr's WWII tale, All the Light We Cannot See). I did enjoy this book. Still, if you're seeking WWII and haven't read The Book Thief or All the Light We Cannot See, start with those first. 

[My earlier links are to reviews of physical reading of these two books, but here are my reviews of re-reads, using audio versions, for The Book Thief and All the Light We Cannot See.]

Book Review: The Second Story Bookshop

I enjoyed the play on words for the title of this book by Denise Hunter. The second story bookshop is, indeed, on the second story of a building. However, it is also the "second story" for a woman whose husband has passed away and who seeks a new passion, bookselling. But, everyone is worthy of a second story. Indeed, many characters in this novel find their way to a second chance and a new chapter in life.

The Second Story Bookshop is a grand story of redemption. I love it when bitterness gives way to forgiveness, when brokenness becomes a vessel for God's mercy and grace. Shelby Thatcher has always worked in her Gram's bookshop. Reeling after her grandmother's death, she is stunned by the reading of the will. Instead of inheriting the bookshop, she learns she is only part owner. The secondary owner is her ex, Gray Briggs, who shattered her heart years ago. Then, another blow descends when she discovers her grandmother's debts. Can she forgive Gray and work together with him to restore the bookshop to its former glory and to a profitable margin? Will the town that hates Gray drive him away before he can earn Shelby's forgiveness?

What a seducing promo paragraph on the Amazon page:

"If you're looking for an enemies-to-lovers, second-chance romance set in a cozy lakeside bookshop brimming with healing, heart, and Southern charm, The Second Story Bookshop is your perfect, feel-good escape. Let Shelby and Gray's tender journey remind you that sometimes the path back to love starts at the front step of a bookstore.

Anyone who loves deeply will know pain. But if you avoid pain by shunning love, you shortchange yourself many of life's blessings. This book drives that truth home.

Book Review: Shelterwood

I enjoyed Lisa Wingate's Before We Were Yours. So, I was thrilled to learn my library had another book I've heard about, written by Wingate, Shelterwood. You can tell this author leans into research. She clearly spent a great deal of time investigating the true aspects of this story. Then, she fleshes it out with a fictional story. Like in Before We Were Yours, this is a dual timeline story.

In Oklahoma, 1909, eleven-year-old Olive Augusta Radley is sure her stepfather means to harm her. She takes the six-year-old Choctaw girl, living with them, and runs away. They use their wits to evade capture several times, always on the run from people who wish to exploit them. In Oklahoma, 1990, Valerie Boren Odell is settling in to her new job as a ranger at Horssethief Trail National Park. She is a single mother with a heart for children. Thus, she is drawn into the mysterious disappearance of a teenager, alongside the discovery of the bones of three children buried in a cave.

I didn't enjoy this one as much as the previous book, but that is probably entirely due to a current reading slump. It may have also been harder to stay focused on this long, rambling story because I was only snatching a few minutes listening time here or there in car trips. I will say, the book made me want to write a historical fiction novel (if only I could dig up some interesting tid-bit of history that has been unexplored). It is criminal what happened to young children and orphans when their land was stolen from under them. They were powerless to fight the theiving adults and often ended up living homeless in the woods, like Olive. If you are from Oklahoma or are interested in the plight of young Indian children, this book is sure to interest you.