"The Final Summit", by Andy Andrews

The Final Summit is Andy Andrews' conclusion to The Traveler’s Gift. I have not read the first book, but it wasn't too hard to jump in where he left off. In the story, humanity is on a fast-track to destruction after years and years of straying from it's original purpose. David Ponder, the story's main character, must find the solution and save them.

Normally, I'm not a big fan of fiction, but the neat thing about this story is how it weaves true stories from history and brings them to life. As David Ponder seeks to find the answer to helping humanity, these historical figures share with him about the adversity that each of them faced in their lifetime. What a great way to combine fiction and history and use it to think through how we tackle obstacles we are facing now!




Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this e-book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

27

Today, I'm turning twenty seven years old. My life is SO FILLED with goodness. I want to suck each bit of it up, like positioning your spoon-straw just right in the bottom of a Slurpee cup, so not a drop is left unsavored.

My 'bookmark' tab is filled with a long list of blogs that I love to read. Most of them are the blogs of women who are serving God by being mothers and advocates to those who are without. Most of their days are filled with changing diapers, doing laundry, and showing selfless love to those that don't know how to show it in return. These women are my heros. It's my biggest dream to be just like them one day.

This year, I want to be more mindful of others, and less mindful of what others are thinking about me.

This year, I want to be intentional in my relationships.

This year, I want to memorize scripture like I memorized *N Sync quotes in 10th grade.

Hello, 27!

Life Without Limits by Nick Vujicic

Wow, wow, wow! This has by far been my favorite book I've read so far this year. I had heard a bit about this Nick Vujicic in the past, but never had any idea just how solid this guy is! He knows his stuff and speaks boldly!

Nick was born without arms or legs. There were times in his life when he felt he was a burden to others and that he had no hope. What purpose could his life hold? He now travels the globe, speaking to thousands! His personal story proves that we are each capable of overcoming obstacles, but ultimately points to the true joy-giver - our Heavenly Father.

You can follow this link to read the first chapter of Nick's incredible book, Life Without Limits.


Nick grabbed my interest so much that I literally spent hours digging up YouTube videos of his speaking engagements. I'd encourage you to do the same!




I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

Sisterchicks in Wooden Shoes by Robin Jones Gunn

Sisterchicks in Wooden Shoes tells the fun story of long-distance penpals, Summer and Noelle. Life's difficult circumstances provided the perfect opportunity for the two friends to finally meet in person. After years of sharing life together via letters, they discovered how sweet it is to have a treasured friend by your side.

This was the first novel I had read from the Sisterchicks series, written by Robin Jones Gunn. When I noticed the book was set in the Netherlands, I knew I wanted to read it! I've flown into Amsterdam a few times - the views of the fields, canals and tulips have always made my heart long to spend more time there. The author did an excellent job of transporting me back, making me feel the moist air and hear the unfamiliar sounds of a foreign land. I can't wait to get my hands on other books in this series!



I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

"Same Life, New Story," by Jan Silvious

Have you ever used the "what if" scenario? Ever wondered how God can make good come from a situation? Feel you need more power to bounce back from a painful experience? Do you want to make a positive difference with your life? If you said yes to one or all of these questions, this book will be a blessing to you.

"Same Life, New Story", by author Jan Silvious, has taught me much about ten special women in the Bible and how their life experiences can relate to my own life today. I love how Jan has equipped me with tools to see the choices I make in a new and refreshing light. Be reminded that God is always in control and YOU CAN have a fresh start.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Voices of the Faithful (Book 2), compiled by Kim P. Davis & created by Beth Moore

Voices of the Faithful is the second installment in a series of devotionals created by Beth Moore and compiled by Kim P. Davis. Each day brings you real stories from missionaries themselves. I can't think of a better way to quiet my heart and put each day's tasks into perspective than to step into the life of a brother in Christ who is serving somewhere around the globe. Each month's devotionals carry a different topic and each day's story ends with a prayer. It's my hope that each reader will say the prayer both for themselves as well as for the faithful serving overseas.

As a person who has had the privilege to serve in overseas ministries, I was profoundly excited to read a book completely dedicated to such causes. Each page in this book will open your eyes to the miracles that God can orchestrate if we just follow His calling and let Him take care of the details. If you like reading non-fiction books, then Voices of the Faithful is a must read.




I received this book free of charge through the Thomas Nelson blogger review program at Booksneeze.com.

Faithful by Kim Cash Tate

Faithful, a novel by Kim Cash Tate, takes you through the joys and struggles of three special friends. Cydney, Dana and Phyllis are strong women of God who encourage and walk through life together. As trials and difficulties hit, they each learn deep lessons in faithfulness - to each other, and most importantly, to God.

The cover of the book lead me to believe it would be all romance and lovey-dovey relationships, but I was relieved to discover the storylines went much deeper and beyond the typical romance novel.

I don't often read fiction, and this was my first time reading a novel by Kim Cash Tate. I was pleasantly surprised as each page drew my attention. The author did a fantastic job of bringing each character to life. As I got to know each one, I felt I could relate to different characteristics in each of them. I loved them and wished I could be the fourth member of their tight-knit friendship!

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.