You're Made for a God-Sized Dream: Opening the Door to All God Has for You by Holley Gerth

Back Cover:

Hello, you . . .
The one looking for more purpose and listening for God's plan.
Here's what that restlessness is really all about: there's a God-sized dream knocking on the door of your heart.
Before you think that sounds too big, let me assure you, God-sized dreams aren't really about size at all. They're about the desires God places within you that perfectly fit your heart.
God-sized dreams are an essential part of who you're created to be and what you're called to do. They lead to more meaning, joy, and connection with the One who gave them to you.
In the busyness of life, it's easy to ignore them or let fear shut them out.
But this is your moment.
Now is your time.
The "more" your heart is longing for has been there all along.
Let's open the door to all God has for you together.

With this life-changing message, Holley Gerth invites you to discover the dreams God has given you--and then dare to pursue them. She takes you by the heart and says, "Yes! You can do this!" and guides you forward with a loving hand. Along the way, she provides insightful questions and offers action plans that will help you take the next steps toward making the deepest desires of your heart a reality.


Review:

I don't usually read "self-help" books. But I when I saw this book, I immediatley thought of a dream I had been holding on to and not knowing what I should do with it.

Holley helps the reader by focusing on what your skills and strengths are, and showing how dreams align with God's purpose for your life. She helps builds self confidence, and reminds the reader to trust in God.

The book also works through your God-sized dream: why do you have this dream, where do you want to go, how to overcome fear, and how to deal with your dream when things don't go as planned.

You are not alone in your dreams: God is always there. He has chosen you - you belong to God. He has called you to do something with your life - to put your dream into action.

The book is great motivation for those who need a extra push, but also a helping hand when things don't work out the way we want them to.


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

Scent of Lilacs by Ann H. Gabhart

Back Cover:

After the summer of 1964, life for Jocie Brooke will never be the same.

Life-changing events rarely happen in quiet Hollyhill, Kentucky, and when they do, they are few and far between. But for young Jocie Brooke and her family, they happen all at once during the humid summer of 1964. Though on the surface things are just fine, it seems like everyone in Jocie's life has something they're not saying, something they're hiding from her--and from themselves. As Jocie digs into her family's past, she stirs up a whirlwind of discoveries. Will she find the answers everyone so desperately needs? Or will her questions lead to truths better left hidden?

Combining unforgettable characters, true-to-life struggles, and the perfect dose of humor and nostalgia, this riveting story from bestselling author Ann Gabhart explores the very essence of new life and love.


Review:

I didn't really know what to expect when I opened Scent of Lilacs. The back cover seemed interesting, but somewhat vague. What I found was delightful, amazing, and down to earth. Scent of Lilacs was intriguing, humorous, and overall a wonderful book.

The story is told mostly from thirteen year old Jocie's point of view. It was such a refreshing way of looking at the world - the problems of a thirteen year old, her view of adult problems, her wonderful simple belief in God, and her heartfelt prayers.

The story isn't a complex tale, but one that is familiar - a messy divorce, and all the after-effects. It was wonderful to see how Josie's father David dealt with what God had given him. Josie's "sister prayer" was beautiful - a child's hope of a returned sister. Tabitha, the prodigal sister, returned home with a secret, but was willing to look for help when she needed it.

The characters in Secnt of Lilacs were spectacularly written. Each character was their own story, and I was privileged to slowly learn about each one.

I can not rave enough about this book. Gabhart did a FANTASTIC job on this novel. The story and characters make this book a complete success.


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

The Icecutter's Daughter by Tracie Peterson

Back Cover:

As the lone female in a houseful of men, Merrill Krause dedicates her life to caring for her family and their business, as her dying mother asked. Besides, it suits her; she's never felt like she fits what most people expect in a girl--she'd rather work with her father’s horses and assist with the ice harvest. And though she’s been mostly content up to this point, a part of her wonders if there will ever be anyone who will notice her amid the bevy of brothers determined to protect her from any possible suitors.
When Rurik Jorgenson arrives in their small Minnesota town to join his uncle's carpentry business, he soon crosses paths with Merrill. But unlike other men, who are often frightened away by her older brothers, Rurik isn't intimidated by them or by Merrill's strength and lack of femininity. The attraction between them begins to build...until Rurik's former fiance shows up with wild claims that bring serious consequences to Rurik.
Can Rurik and Merrill learn to trust God--and each other--when scandal threatens their newfound love?


Review:

I enjoyed reading The Icecutter's Daughter - it's everything you expect in a light, cute chic-lit novel.

Merrill is the dedicated loving daughter, with no time for men in her life. Rurik is the dashing young man, coming to town to help his uncle. They meet, and of course, fall in love. Both characters are deep, wonderful characters, supported by the fabulous supporting characters. I find too often the characters in chic-lit books, are flighty, shallow characters, but I was thankful that Tracie Peterson gave her characters some substance.

I'm not saying that this book is boring in any way. With a bit of American history, intrigue and mystery, The Icecutter's Daughter is the perfect chic-lit book one enjoys reading every once in a while. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.


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