Where Has Oprah Taken Us? Posted by Drac , Thursday, July 19, 2012 at 12:32 AM, in Labels: book, non-fiction, ThomasNelson

Title: Where Has Oprah Taken Us?

Author: Stephen Mansfield

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Genre: Non-Fiction / Biography

Where Has Oprah Taken Us? By Stephen Mansfield may look like a biography meant for every fan of Oprah, but it is not. Though the writer has done a lot of research and provided a complete timeline of Oprah’s life, she is being targeted here for her spiritual beliefs.

Mansfield has provided a lot of facts about the celeb and showcased her upbringing and spiritual growth with much clarity. Her show’s transformation from 1994 up till her retirement from TV has been keenly evaluated pondering all the Gurus she followed, or endorsed in other words. This book attempts to define the base of Oprah’s spirituality and its sources. Beliefs of Marianne Williamson, Deepak Chopra, Rhonda Byrne are cited along with all the cornerstone of Hinduism and Buddhism she follows in her own way.

Mansfield has been very gentle while portraying Oprah’s New Age religion but with a sense of disappointment and he used relative points in history and from Bible to contradict it. Writer’s interpretation of Oprah’s belief might be disheartening for the reader, depending on what you believe.

I am not a fan of Oprah’s “Imagine it and it will be” theory either but I do believe that every religion in the world points out to the same thing and it is more important to Believe than to fight over whom to believe. Let it be God, Allah or just yourself. If you look through my view, there is not much difference in Bible’s Apotheosis and Oprah’s self-actualization, just words at play.

It is important to cleanse your brain and get out of the conservative attitude before you read this book, listen to the writer being as neutral and you will definitely learn something about your spiritual standing. My advice for the reader is to get all the facts and make your own interpretation.

Rating: 3/5 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Eyes of Justice Posted by Drac , Thursday, April 26, 2012 at 12:16 AM, in Labels: book, fiction, ThomasNelson

Title: Eyes of Justice

Author: Lis Wiehl with April Henry

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Genre: Fiction 

Eyes of Justice by Lis Wiehl is the latest installment in the Triple Threat series, which showcases the struggle of Cassidy, a reporter; Nicole, an FBI agent and Allison, a federal prosecutor, towards crime. 

But this issue is surely a heart-breaking for the die-hard fans of the series. This time the tragedy is too personal for the Triple Threat Sisters as one of them has been killed. Initially it appears that killer had a personal anguish towards Cassidy but as the attack on Nicole and Allison begins, it becomes clear that they are facing a fanatic who knows their every move. The race begins and they should surely buck-up or it will be an end to the Triple Threat Club. Just like other novels in the series, this one too have lots of twists and mind boggling revelations, along with a more realistic scenario of their respective departments of FBI office, a TV station and judicial structure. 

The best part about Lis Wiehl’s novels is that you stop playing the guessing game much before in the book. The continuously warping story makes it a delicious page turner. Even as the original group ceases to exist, introduction to a new character, Ophelia left the avenue open for new books in the series. 

Paramount element about this series is that it is not essential for the reader to have read the previous books, though it is recommended, to have a better understanding and emotional attachment with the characters. Other books in the series are:  Face of Betrayal, Hand of Fate and Heart of Ice. 

Rating: 3.5/5 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The 360 Degree Leader Posted by Drac , Wednesday, March 7, 2012 at 2:42 AM, in Labels: book, non-fiction, ThomasNelson

Title: The 360 Degree Leader 

Author: John C. Maxwell

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Genre: Non-Fiction 

There are many books claiming to improve your leadership skills but The 360 Degree Leader - Developing Your Influence from Anywhere in the Organization by John C. Maxwell is exceptional.  

In this book, Maxwell, who is widely recognized for his leadership skill techniques and motivational speeches, tells you that you don’t have to be on a top position to lead but you are a leader already. We all are submitted to the myth that leader is the one whom everyone follows and unless we reach to that position in our organization our skills won’t matter. This book shatters this misconception and makes the reader realized that leading can be done from anywhere, even from the middle of the organization. Leadership is a choice you make, not a place you sit. Different levels and demands of a leader has been explained in this book which will make the reader learn to lead down among their subordinates, lead up to their superiors and lead across their peers. A leader is made by his character and influence and not by position.

The 360 Degree Leader is not a light read like quotable quotes by John C. Maxwell but the book is properly arranged to make it an effortless read. It feels like listening to a speech with a refreshing and energizing attitude. However after a while the book does get repetitive. Though if you follow it thorough by review points and workbook exercises, it might help you achieve a leader within you.

Rating: 3/5 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Surprised By Laughter Posted by Drac , Wednesday, February 8, 2012 at 2:15 AM, in Labels: book, non-fiction, ThomasNelson

Title: Surprised By Laughter 

Author: Terry Lindvall

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Genre: Non-Fiction 

Surprised by Laughter: The Comic World of C.S. Lewis by Terry Lindvall is a thesis on the writing style of C.S. Lewis and his wisdom of wits. 

No reader of humor is stranger to the name of C. S. Lewis; his witticism and view of life makes one to think about things in a cerebral way, ponder the general things of day-to-day life along with drowning in the immaculate humor. In this book, author has tried to capture the essence of his work and presented it in a documented form. 

Though this book has a dreary start but it improves with every chapter letting the reader engulf in the comical point of view of Lewis. Divided in 6 parts: The Idea and the Legacy, Joy, Fun, The Joke Proper, Satire and Flippancy, and Conclusion; the book is flooded with examples of various types of humor he used in his writing. It won’t be wrong to say this book is just like Lewis would have wanted. 

Hypothetically considering, if you are unfamiliar with Lewis, it is advisable to read his work before starting this book to gather a profound idea of what you are dealing with. For people like me who find Lewis as an inspiration, this book will help a lot in teaching more about him and how his faith played an important part in his successful life. 

Rating: 3/5 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Heart of Ice Posted by Drac , Wednesday, January 11, 2012 at 10:13 PM, in Labels: book, fiction, ThomasNelson

Title: Heart of Ice

Author: Lis Wiehl with April Henry

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Genre: Fiction 

Heart of Ice is third novel in the Triple Threat series, which follows three fiercely intelligent women: Allison, a federal prosecutor, Nicole, an FBI agent and Cassidy, a TV journalist as they solve crimes. 

Though this book features 3-4 sub plots to keep the story intriguing, the main story revolves around Elizabeth Avery, a sociopath who can go to any limit and beyond to get what she want. Elizabeth can easily manipulate anyone and get them to do what she wants, even murder. 

The Triple Threat ladies have to stop her before the things gets way out of hand along dealing with issues in their personal lives as well. Allison is still mourning the loss of her unborn child and trying to work on her relationship with her sister, Nicole is diagnosed with breast cancer, and Cassidy is still trying to find her way to the top of her career and dealing with self-esteem issues. 

If you have not read the previous novels, you might not develop a good connection with the three characters to grieve over their tragic personal lives. But once the series of killing event begins, you will find yourself dwelling in the pace; which makes it a good page-turner for new readers as well. 

There is not much mystery in the novel as the reader knows since the beginning who is the killer. But unfolding of the events and unpredictable consequences marks it a breathtaking thriller. 

Rating: 4/5 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Future Door Posted by Drac , Tuesday, December 27, 2011 at 7:35 AM, in Labels: book, fiction, ThomasNelson

Title: The Future Door

Author: Jason Lethcoe

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Genre: Fiction 

The Future Door by Jason Lethcoe is the second installment in ‘No Place Like Holmes’ series and begins where the last one went off. The story revolves around detective and mechanical genius Rupert Snodgrass and his 12-year old nephew Griffin Sharpe, who has a unique ability to observe even the minutest details of everything around him. In a striving attempt to reach the level of Sherlock Holmes and becomes the most famous detective in London, Snodgrass invents a time machine, which gets stolen by his nemesis Nigel Moriarty. And thus begins the time bending adventure of the Uncle-Nephew team to save London and themselves from the evil of Moriarty and his henchmen. 

Though this book does not match the writing of Sherlock Holmes’ books in any manner, but the stimulating flow of the story which includes giant mechanical spiders and strange future worlds will surely keep the targeted readers glued. There is no mystery in the book and it is better to keep your logic aside and consider the time-travel part as a fantasy and not a science-fiction. 

The book contains small chapters ranging from 3 to 8 pages and also features a quiz, two mini-mysteries, and instructions on how to brew a pot of English tea at the end. 

Just like many more children books, The Future Door is also enjoyable by any age group and can be a part of read-aloud family story time. But this book will be cherished most by young adults. 

Rating: 3.5/5 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Bone House Posted by Drac , Saturday, November 26, 2011 at 6:15 AM, in Labels: book, fiction, ThomasNelson

Title: The Bone House 

Author: Stephen R. Lawhead 

Publisher : Thomas Nelson 

Genre: Fiction 

The Bone House is the second book in Stephen Lawhead’s The Bright Empires Series following The Skin Map. 

In this episode the race to find missing pieces of the map continues to explore the uncharted dimensions of the multiverse, with enthralling action. Kit has found one piece of the skin map but others are still left, which will give a complete understanding of the Ley lines enabling him to travel through time and space. The sub plots are also gaining advancement, where Kit’s girlfriend Mina, caught in the Seventeenth century Prague developing her knowledge of Ley lines, Burleigh has also raised his stake and willing to go on any terms to get the map. 

There are only a handful of series in which a novel gets better than the previous one, and this is that novel. This book is fast paced since the first chapter and keeps the reader hooked till the end and craving for more. Apart from developing more depth to the characters, the writing has also been eased in the flow, to tag along new readers. 

At the end of the book there is an essay which depicts the research work done by the author to make this story such intriguing. The Spirit Well coming in September 2012 will mark the next installment in the series. 

Rating: 5/5

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Skin Map Posted by Drac , at 1:01 AM, in Labels: book, fiction, ThomasNelson

Title: The Skin Map

Author: Stephen R. Lawhead

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Genre: Fiction 

Without giving much of the spoilers, The Skin Map portrays the journey of Kit Livingstone. Leading a routine life, Kit has never expected what turn his life would take when he had a visit from his great grandfather Cosimo. He discovers the truth about various Ley lines across Britain which is used to travel across time and space; and about a lost skin map enveloping all those Ley lines, which a brave traveler had tattooed on his skin in a coded form. Many people are behind this map, so the pursuit begins with twisted tales of time, fate and even a grandfather paradox of H. G. Wells.

Stephen Lawhead’s writing gives you the assorted expressions of Dan Brown’s thriller and Stephen Hawking’s scientific approach. All the scientific facts inscribed in the intrigue are purely factual and shows current theoretical development of time travel and parallel universes. Still, the writer doesn’t lose his touch and keep the language simple and each concept understandable for the layman reader.

This book is not just a science fiction but a philosophical tale to contemplate. I loved the flow of the story, but as this book is fast paced, some readers might find it confusing at some places. This is a story of a lifetime, actually multiple lifetimes.

The Skin Map marks the beginning of the Bright Empires series.

Rating: 5/5

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Surprised by Oxford Posted by Drac , Wednesday, August 10, 2011 at 1:23 AM, in Labels: book, non-fiction, ThomasNelson

Title: Surprised by Oxford 

Author: Carolyn Weber 

Publisher: Thomas Nelson 

Genre: Non-Fiction 

Surprised by Oxford by Carolyn Weber, describes the journey of a woman from being agnostic to believer. Due to the influence of her past experiences, Carolyn has lost her faith in Jesus but when she comes to Oxford, the environment and incidences makes her to let go her past and reconcile her faith. 

This book is a splendid read and looks very real at every part. The architecture of Oxford described in the book is brilliant and if you have ever visited Oxford you can connect to it instantly. Though basically this memoir is a love story of a woman searching for her husband but, it would be an awe-inspiring read for any Christian to see how God helped the author to triumph over all the obstacles and develops faith. 

The only backlog I found in the book is that it is really very long. I do not skip any part of the book while reading as it hurts the flow; some parts could have been removed or briefed a bit. Though some parts are fetched, the past experience of the author and the reason behind her obstructive feminine thinking is not elaborated in the book. 

This book is recommended for anyone who is looking towards to get surprised by how God can help you overcome your problems and will develop faith in you by his grace. 

Rating: 4/5 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Surviving Your Serengeti Posted by Drac , Wednesday, July 27, 2011 at 1:23 AM, in Labels: book, non-fiction, ThomasNelson

Title: Surviving Your Serengeti 

Author: Stefan Swanepoel 

Publisher: Wiley 

Genre: Non-Fiction

Surviving Your Serengeti by Stefan Swanepoel is the narrative by author’s personal experiences which by using fable as a stage introduces us to seven different kind of predominant animals and their expertise and correlation with our lives. 

Man is a social animal and like every other animal, men also have to face challenges in order to survive. If you have a complete understanding of yourself, you can predict your behavior in certain situations; will know how to tackle the difficulties and success would become inevitable. Using wildlife as a role model, Stefan provides the belief and confidence required for a flourishing business and life. 

Author has showcased seven different wild animals: Wildebeest, Lion, Crocodile, Cheetah, Giraffe, Mongoose & Elephant and their tactics of the jungle. After a great work of research, Stefan hopes that this measures when applied in the business and in life would undeniably provide incredible results. The book also includes a quiz named "What Animal Am I?" which helps you to learn which predominant animal's traits you have. 

Though I am not a big fan of such motivational and self-help books, the author holds a good grasp on the flow and his vivid presentation is astonishingly interesting. A highly recommended book for entrepreneurs and business enthusiasts. 

Rating: 4/5

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Spring for Susannah Posted by Drac , Friday, June 24, 2011 at 7:14 AM, in Labels: book, fiction, ThomasNelson

Title: Spring for Susannah 

Author: Catherine Richmond 

Publisher: Thomas Nelson 

Genre: Fiction 

Spring for Susannah is the debut novel of Catherine Richmond. The story is set in the Dakota Territory following the Civil War. The protagonist Susannah has lost her parents and having no other projection for life decides to be the mail-order bride for her Pastor’s brother Jesse Mason. Unlike love follows marriage stories, this novel leads the other way round. 

Being extremely shy and saddened from life due to her atrocious past Susannah gets in Jesse more than she expected. Jesse is very patient and always tries to help her opening up. The teasing and flirting between these two characters and their journey towards learning to love each other marks the pedestal of this book. Though even it is a Christian Romance, some people may find a few dialogues as obscene. But they only help in developing the characters and bringing them closer to reality. 

As they begin to grow in love, their love has been put to trial. A locust plague wipes out their crop and Jesse has to leave to find work in Fort Lincoln. The only thing I can say about the ending without giving any spoilers is that it feels abrupt with many loose ends. Also many scenes and actions have been too fast paced that they may leave you bewildered. 

Still Catherine Richmond has managed to develop a hale and hearty excitement and kinship with the characters, hope her upcoming novels will be even better. 

Rating: 3.5/5

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Truth of the Matter Posted by Drac , Wednesday, December 1, 2010 at 5:23 AM, in Labels: book, fiction, ThomasNelson

Title: The Truth of the Matter
Author: Andrew Klavan
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Genre: Fiction 




The Truth of The Matter by Andrew Klavan is the third book in “The Homelanders” series, after ‘The Last Thing I Remember’ and ‘The Long Way Home’। This series showcases the story of a teenager named, Charlie West, who wake up a day far away from his home in the middle of a terrorist group targeting him and with his memory of past year erased. His search for his memory and his struggle to reach the home makes this series an adventurous experience for the teenagers.
This book continues the adventure of Charlie West as he fights the evolving terrorist group, International Islamofascists, who wants to ruin the United States. This book is full of surprising elements as well as emotional touch. As Charlie is getting the knowledge about his surroundings, it is up to him, to what to do with this gain. His love for his family, country and God becomes his guide in this journey. The part where he offers a self-sacrifice to infiltrate shadowy homelanders does makes the heart pounding giving a strong feel of belongingness with the protagonist.
Author has beautifully constructed and expressed the thoughts of the characters। This book should connects to every teenager as a story of a guy who is in search of his identity, because it holds true to every person in his/her teenage। Though it is a good read, you must go through the previous two books in order to enjoy this one completely. Also, the story does not ends here and will have another part titled, ‘The Final Hour’.

Rating: 3.5/5
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Grace of God Posted by Drac , Monday, November 8, 2010 at 4:38 AM, in Labels: book, non-fiction, ThomasNelson

Title: The Grace of God

Author: Andy Stanley

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Genre: Non-Fiction 

The Grace of God by Andy Stanley is the story of grace in its entirety. Grace is a gift from God to all of us and we are still not aware of its virtues. This book represents the story of God’s grace the way it meant to be.

From the beginning of Genesis to today’s life God has been very kind and had shower the grace upon us. Every chapter in this book discloses a property of grace, unveiling the reader with ultimate knowledge of His grace, kindness and love for us. From the birth of Ten Commandments and their need, this book tells us that how the grace could be received or taken or reused or commissioned, etc. Author has done a seamless work to present these stories and remind us of His grace.

The book is full of quotations and biblical references any Christian would easily connect to. Author has provided great detailing and background to relate with the stories, which makes them come alive in front of the readers. Though sometimes the text seems farfetched and I find myself dragging the chapters but overall it was a good read. This work of author will show you how to be legible to receive the grace and how you would be able to give the grace.

Rating: 2.5/5

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Outlive Your Life Posted by Drac , Saturday, November 6, 2010 at 5:45 AM, in Labels: book, non-fiction, ThomasNelson

Title: Outlive Your Life

Author: Max Lucado

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Genre: Non-Fiction 

Max Lucado is not a newborn, he knows how to handle the readers and his latest book Outlive Your Life is undoubtedly one of his finest. This book portrays the thing world is seriously in need of right now. We can feel around us a world full of sorrows and problems, is it that world God intended to make for us? Absolutely not. Jesus wants us to break the shell which we live in, hiding from all the worries of the world and start outliving our lives.

Max Lucado has done a tremendous job of transforming the lessons from the Book of Acts into a real life scenario. This book tells us to rock the world with hope by following the simple and effective steps directed by the first Christian of the world. In a straightforward and flawless language, author tries to provide the morals form the bible and their application in day-to-day life. Every chapter ends with a prayer and the book also has some discussion questions at the end to spark new ideas at your group.

The book is also flooded with inspiring and revolutionizing thoughts, my favorite one is: “God doesn't call the qualified, he qualifies the called”. It doesn’t matter how rich or poor you are or how simple is your lifestyle, when you follow Him, you will surely rock the world with hope and outlive your own life.

Rating: 4/5

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Falling Away Posted by Drac , Sunday, October 3, 2010 at 7:34 AM, in Labels: book, fiction, ThomasNelson

Title: The Falling Away

Author: T. L. Hines

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Genre: Fiction 

The Falling Away by T. L. Hines is the story of Dylan Runs Ahead, who, as his name suggests, is running away from all his past memories.

After blaming himself for his missing sister, the protagonist runs away from the place where he grew up. He joins the army just to end up even running from there after his friend’s death in an explosion. Fighting from all past physical and emotional wounds he figures out that he has to run away from people who wants him dead too.

The story takes an interesting turn when he meets a woman who proclaims herself as an oracle and tells him that he is The Chosen One. At the meantime, his friend is also telling him the same thing. After a struggle to accept this fact, he has to stop running and fights the demon ahead, quite literally.

Overall this book doesn’t loose its charm till the end. But some people may find the expressions of self-harm in the book disturbing. Also at some points the story seems very fast paced. T. L. Hines is famous for his thriller and mystery works and even this time he doesn’t disappoint the readers. I would suggest this book for those who find interests in fast paced mystery novels.

Rating: 3.5/5

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

What In The World Is Going On? Posted by Drac , Monday, August 16, 2010 at 6:52 AM, in Labels: book, non-fiction, ThomasNelson

Title: What In The World Is Going On?

Author: Dr. David Jeremiah

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Genre: Non-Fiction 

What In The World Is Going On: 10 Prophetic Clues You Cannot Afford to Ignore by Dr. Jeremiah is a detailed explanation of prophecy. While reading it, we can recall the things happened in the past and thus witness the fulfillment of prophecy. The part concerning how mankind would be drawn to the anti-christ in the tribulation was never more evident than in seeing what happened in the year 2008’s Presidential election.

The author writes in a comprehensive way, explaining the origin and relevant beginnings and goals of the Islamic religion. The book also deals with the Rapture and all that follows. This book is revealing that we are in the countdown to the last days and should be ready for the comeback of Jesus. The author does an excellent job at giving the reader a heads up on our world today. He reminds readers of the sovereign Lordship of Jesus Christ whose first coming was as the bringer of salvation to all who will receive it and his second coming as conquering King.

This book is clearly written to be easily understood by readers of all levels. It is both enjoyable and enlightening. You'll come away from it with a sense of urgency for self-reflection and eagerness to watch for his marvelous return.

Rating: 3/5

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Same Kind of Different as Me Posted by Drac , Sunday, July 18, 2010 at 4:54 AM, in Labels: book, non-fiction, ThomasNelson

Title: Same Kind of Different as Me

Author: Ron Hall, Denver Moore and Lynn Vincent

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Genre: Non-Fiction 

Same Kind of Different as Me by Ron Hall and Denver Moore with Lynn Vincent is the heartrending story which makes you realize what you are doing in your life and what is your purpose. I have not experienced such a gracious writing in any other book while showcasing three different characters and their exciting intersection of lives. This is the story of Deborah, Ron and Denver, three people from completely different backgrounds and the way their life interests marks an exciting read. From twentieth-century slavery to multi-million-dollar art sales and everything in between, it is hard to keep this book down.

This book is a tribute to Ron’s wife and Denver’s mentor, Debbie. The way she decided to follow the way of God, Ron’s belief and Denver’s share of faith makes it a must read. An act which emerges from the faith of Debbie not only roots the freedom to Denver from a life of slavery but also strengthens the faith of her husband Ron.

The part of the story describing the last days of Debbie are very emotional. It won’t be surprising if you start crying out loud while reading this book. This book contains a very important lesson which if we learn can make our life happy and useful to us and others. This masterwork inspires you in the life to live everyday as it is the last day of your life.

Rating: 3.5/5

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

A Guy's Guide to Life Posted by Drac , Saturday, June 26, 2010 at 5:56 PM, in Labels: book, non-fiction, ThomasNelson

Title: A Guy's Guide to Life: How to Become a Man in 224 Pages or Less

Author: Jason Boyett

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Genre: Non-Fiction 

A Guy's Guide to Life: How to become a man in 224 pages or less by Jason Boyett is a good blend of guidelines for a youth and humor.

This little book works as a guide for a young guy and teaches him how to handle the peer pressure acting on him during his transformation into a man in accordance with Christian values. Featuring categories on various topics through faith, family and hygiene to dating and sex. The author without being preachy has presented the stuff in lucid and humorous language. Some may find it offensive at times, but it may help in forming the bonding with the teenager reader.

The only problem with young guys is that they don’t want to take your advice. In this case, this book may prove satisfying. However, for that also they need to take your advice of reading this. From tying a neck tie to your behavior with your neighbor, Jason Boyett has done a commendable job of explaining things to the young mind.

It was a fun read for me. And it’s a very fine book for a teenager, though I have passed that age, It will make a good gift for my cousin.

Rating: 3.5/5

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Heart Mender Posted by Drac , Saturday, May 29, 2010 at 12:06 AM, in Labels: book, fiction, ThomasNelson

Title: The Heart Mender: A Story of Second Chances

Author: Andy Andrews

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Genre: Motivational 

The Heart Mender is my second book of Andy Andrews and I have to admit that this one is even better than my last read and Andrews’ bestseller ‘The Noticer’. Based on extremely interesting background of World War II, The Heart Mender: A Story of Second Chances is the tale of love, deception, forgiveness and letting go.

When Andy Andrews discovers some surprising elements in his backyard, a search for the story behind them begins weaving a beautiful story of romance intertwined with historical facts and thrills & fears of the time of WWII. At the times when the German submarines attacked U.S. vessels off the Gulf of Mexico, a young woman, Helen, who is suffering from the loss of her husband in war find a wounded submariner Josef. Their relationship gives the answers they both were searching for and their faith in God provides them with the uttering power of forgiveness.

Though this book contains all the features of fiction, it is a true story which will surely left a mark on every reader. The book is divided into three parts and makes a fast read due to the enchanting story line. It’s compiled by the photos from the past and even ‘Where are they now’ pages at the conclusion.

As one of the praise for this book says it works as a reset button for life. One of the best inspirational books I’ve ever read. This book is highly recommended for those who like historical fictions or romance or motivational subjects.

Rating: 5/5

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Plan B Posted by Drac , Monday, May 3, 2010 at 5:41 AM, in Labels: book, non-fiction, ThomasNelson

Title: Plan B

Author: Pete Wilson

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Genre: Spiritual Growth 

What you would do when God doesn’t show up the way you thought he would? Pete Wilson answers this question in Plan B. This book showcases a new dimension of hope and faith with realistic advices extracted from real life experiences.

Pete Wilson is the founding and senior pastor of Cross Point Church, Nashville. Being a pastor, he has listened to many people who has gone through a tough times, getting downtrodden by their broken dreams and experienced a devastated failure in the way towards their goal of life. Plan B is flooded with many examples which display that God always turn out fascinating in volatile situations, when you expect him the least. As someone said, if things turn out your way its good, if didn’t its better; cause then its God’s way.

Plan B is a must read for those who need motivation in their life. Even if you have never experienced any failure, which is next to impossible, it makes a good read benefitting the reader with guidance to survive in those twisted moments.

It may look in first sight as a book enhancing Christian faith, but it is not. Though many advices are oriented in that way, but it never turns out preachy and makes a good read for everyone. Author’s way of narration is simply admirable, as you will experience the laugh and grief of the characters portrayed by him for the practical wisdom.

As the author says in this book, it is not about finding all the answers but about developing the courage and patience to move in life and keeping the faith in God. It is highly recommended for each and everyone, as you may never know when life takes a turn and you might need a Plan B.

Rating: 4.5/5

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”