Moonblood

In her new book Moonblood, Anne Elisabeth Stengl continues to tell the story of Lionheart, Red Rose, and other characters introduced in the preceding two books. Lionheart banished Red Rose into the Wilderlands to forestall losing his kingdom, but it doesn't work. Lionheart retreats to the Hill House and eventually goes in search of Red Rose. Meanwhile Red Rose's history is revealed and we find that she is in grave danger: not only her, but much of the world. Only Lionheart can save her, but he must once again choose between himself and someone he loves. Will Red Rose decide to trust her betrayer?

I must admit that halfway through this book I skimmed the last chapters to find out how it ended. It was getting hard to read when things kept getting gloomier. And I'm glad I continued reading, because although things continued to get even gloomier, the end was very positive and I'm once again looking forward to the next book. Stengl has a very vivid imagination, yet, like all good allegories, at the same time conveys a strong message.

Advanced reading copy has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.  Available now at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

You're Already Amazing

Holley Gerth sits down with a cup of coffee to chat about your life. She listens, responds, encourages, and even prods a little. At the end of your coffee time, you get up, rested and ready to face a little more of life's challenges. That's what this book is like, written in a friendly style, meant to encourage and help you realize your God-given potential, even pruning a little here to make the good that God gave you stand out. It goes through some of the standard personality styles, but in a more folksy and down-to-earth way. Although I've used a number of personality inventories, I did learn some new things about myself. An easy read, but like good coffee, you can let it mellow and linger as you contemplate your life. Yes, although it is meant for women and all the examples are about women, I did find it useful for me. It gives those of us who serve others the permission to stop for a bit and recharge, find the balance that God wants in our life.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.  Available now at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.