Book Reviews of Christian novels, Christian living and Bible studies

Joyce Meyer-Reduce Me to Love

2011-12-06T13:14:00.000-08:00

I must admit I cried while reading this book, desperately wanting to do a better job of walking in love. I have read scriptures over and over in the bible wanting to know what love looks like, tastes like, feels like. I do know this, it is a supernatural experience. When you are born again into the body of Christ, the love of God is shed abroad in your heart by the Holy Spirit. You actually get God's love in you. I really believe being led by this supernatural love is how you are truly led by the Holy Spirit.

With that being said, this book is a great, quick read. Something to keep on your nightstand and read before you fall asleep. I also think it can be used in the morning during your devotion time. This is definitely a book for your collection, and since it is Christmas, the perfect stocking stuffer. I agree with Joyce Meyer's prayer; Lord, Reduce Me to Love!

On a side note, I have a special appreciation for Joyce Meyer. About 8 years ago, before I was an author and anyone knew my name, I emailed Joyce asking for prayer for a personal issue. She responded with a long heartfelt email and sent me a free tape series. This let me know, that her love walk, is truly authentic.

Joyce Meyer Ministry Website

Amazon Link: Reduce Me to Love

Terri Blackstock-Shadow in Serenity

2011-11-21T12:58:00.000-08:00

I finished this novel within a couple of days because of how much I was entertained reading it. As usual, Terri Blackstock brings a brilliant storyline to life which includes a lesson in morality and trusting in God.

I have yet to read a Blackstock novel that I haven't fully enjoyed, and Shadow in Serenity is no exception. In my opinion, this book would make a terrific movie.

Official Website: www.TerriBlackstock.com

Amazon Link: Shadow in Serenity

Shawn Bolz-The Throne Room Company

2011-11-01T11:19:00.000-07:00

My husband and I both really enjoyed this book! Shawn reminds you to be "eternally minded" and not to focus on things that just don't matter. He also tells his testimony of how he experienced "Throne Room Company" in God's presence.

Ministry Website: http://expression58.org/

David Wilkerson-America's Last Call

2011-09-19T11:24:00.000-07:00

I read this book shortly after it came out in the late 1990's and I recently reread it. It was good then, but it's better now. I have a different perspective after 9/11 and a depleted stock market. The book isn't necessarily a "prophetic word" but a study of scripture of how God works financially in countries.

This is a fantastic read and has a clear interpretation of God's word concerning the economy. Considering America's financial climate now, it would be in your best interest to read America's Last Call.

Amazon link

Dr. Larry Hutton-Internal Affairs; Emotional Stability in an Unstable World

2011-08-23T13:00:00.000-07:00

I saw Dr. Larry Hutton's testimony on the TV show, It's Supernatural and ordered the book. Very good teaching and very needed. Dr. Hutton received a revelation about walking in peace from Jesus Christ and writes in the book the effect it has had on his life. If you struggle with worry and fear, I believe this book will help you find the peace that has already been given to you. I also recommend you watch the TV clip too.

TV Show link

Amazon link

Ministry Website Link

Kenneth E. Hagin -Plans, Purposes & Pursuits.

2011-08-11T17:12:00.000-07:00

Any Kenneth E. Hagin fans out there? I have read many of this man's books. Plans, Purposes & Pursuits is one of my favorites. But I have several more! His books have done more to influence my walk with Christ than any others that I have read!

In this book, Jesus Christ gives Hagin a revelation of man's Plans, Purposes & Pursuits vs. God's. And how to know the difference! It is amazing how easily off track we can get! I have read this book many times over the past 12 or so years and recently began rereading it. Jesus also revealed to Hagin that many Spirit filled Christians are bringing brass (OT laws) into God's temple instead of gold (NT)! It is selling on Amazon for under $10, so if you can get it, please do! You will not be disappointed!

Amazon link

Sid Roth-The Incomplete Church

2011-06-07T11:59:00.000-07:00

This book is fascinating. I didn't realize how some ministers from the past strove to push Jews away from our churches through anti-semitism. This book is full of historical fact and I really enjoyed it. Here is a portion of the back matter from the book:

Christianity today is very different from the original. To experience the original-the miracles, healings, power, and intimacy with God-we have to examine our Jewish roots. For 2,000 years, there has been a separation between Judaism and Christianity resulting in a lack of miracle power and intimacy with God.

The Incomplete Church on Amazon

Ministry Website: SidRoth.org

Ted Dekker-The Bride Collector

2011-05-19T13:17:00.000-07:00

Creepy! and I'm pretty sure that was Ted Dekker's intent. The very end was sweet and in between was anything but. Well written, fast paced, but not normally my cup of tea. I had a hard time ingesting the gory parts, like I always have with books, so that is a personal preference. I did enjoy the story line, and was sad about the murder of one of the characters and found myself rooting for their survival.

Thick book and good for the nightstand if you like to get scared before bed:)

The Bride Collector Amazon Link

TedDekker.com

Kathi Oates-Open My Heart, Lord

2011-05-10T06:09:00.000-07:00

Amazing healing within these pages. If you don't read this book, you really will be missing out. The book deals with inner healing differently than most. Shattered shards of your soul, alters, walls and in general woundedness that hinders your walk with God. I had heard of alter personalities before, and it always sounded a little hokey to me. But the way it is explained in this book really brings the truth to light. I originally saw Kathi on Sid Roth's Supernatural and when she prayed at the end I actually felt something in my heart snap back together. I encourage you to watch that episode and I did attach the link below.

FIVE STARS!!!

Sid Roth's Supernatural Kathi Oates Episode

Book link on Amazon

Ministry website link

J. Lee Grady-10 Lies the Church tells Women

2011-03-31T14:52:00.000-07:00

My friend Laurie originally lent me this book and I was reading it on an airplane. During a layover, I stuck the book in the pocket in front of me while passengers boarded. A lady sat next to me, grabbed the book quickly out of the pocket and began to thumb through it. That began an hour or so conversation about women's roles in the church. This particular woman felt an apostolic call to teach but was at a Baptist Church. And as you know, most Baptists teach that women are supposed to be submissive to men etc.

Luke and I had a chance to pray with her afterwards, and I gave her the book. Fortunately, Laurie understood and bought me another copy for my birthday. Let me list for you the chapter titles:

Lie #1 God created women as inferior beings, destined to serve their husbands

Lie #2 Women are not equipped to assume leadership roles in the church

Lie #3 Women must not teach or preach to men in a church setting.

Lie#4 A woman should view her husband as the "priest of the home."

Lie #5 A man needs to "cover" a woman in her ministry activities.

Lie #6 Women who exhibit strong leadership qualities pose a serious danger to the church

Lie #7 Women are more easily deceived than men.

Lie #8 Women can't be fulfilled or spiritually effective without a husband and children.

Lie #9 Women shouldn't work outside the home.

Lie #10 Women must obediently submit to their husbands in all situations.

If you read my book Addiction to Authority, you know I already covered some of these topics, but not nearly in depth, with history and culture, like J. Lee Grady did in this book!

Amazon Link to 10 Lies the Church tells Women

Jim Driscoll-The Modern Seer

2011-01-23T18:04:00.001-08:00

Believe it or not, I didn't know this book existed until one morning in prayer the Lord told me about it. Sounds crazy, but it's true. He said "There is another book about the Seer that I want your husband to read." We had both already read James Goll's book The Seer. I looked on Amazon and this book popped up.

Very insightful and very easy to understand. I think that every child of God operates in some measure of seeing and this book helps cultivate your gift.

The Modern Seer on BN.com

Mark & Patti Virkler- How to Hear God's Voice

2010-12-29T11:45:00.000-08:00

This bible study has helped me inmeasurably. Very detailed explaination on how to hear God's voice allowing you to practice through journaling. If you are having a hard time learning how to hear Jesus' voice, you really need to get this bible study and go through it!

Amazon.com: How to Hear God's Voice

Ministry Website: http://www.cwgministries.org/

Peggy Joyce Ruth, Angela Ruth Schum- Psalm 91 Real Life Stories of God's Protection

2010-12-17T11:27:00.000-08:00

If you are only going to purchase one book this month, I recommend this one. This book is a keeper and the kind of book you give away as a gift. I had been praying Psalm 91 off and on for years already, but this book breaks down the meaning, and has a multitude of testimonies of lives spared by believers praying Psalm 91. I saw Peggy Joyce Ruth's testimony on Sid Roth's Supernatural, so please click on the link I provided below to watch!

Sid Roth's Supernatural Testimony

Amazon: Psalm 91; Real Stories of God's Protection

Steve Gray-Follow the Fire

2010-10-13T18:01:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading this book, Follow the Fire...and tommorow Luke and I are getting on a plane, flying to Kansas City and visiting this church. It will be our 6th visit in almost 2 years.

Why? There seems to be a very strong annointing for breakthrough and deliverance on it. Everytime Luke and I go (and sometimes friends come with us) we get layers of muck pulled out of us. In fact, when I get back from a weekend at World Revival Church, I actually have a hard time worrying and I feel very alive. Sound strange? Even if I'm doing a terrible job of describing how tangible the presence of God is during service, I do know there is a reason I'm spending Luke's hard earned money to fly us up there!

Oh yeah! About the book. I really like the way Steve Gray thinks. Many Christian books I read seem to parrot one another in the area of teaching. I saw very little of that in this book. I also would sense the presence of God, and fully enjoyed reading about the trials of revival. BTW- Daystar broadcasts the revival live on Friday nights in case you want a glimpse of what I'm talking about. But of course, I really recommend you visit in person if possible.

BOOK: Follow the Fire by Steve Gray

MINISTRY: http://www.worldrevivalchurch.com/

Terri Blackstock-Predator

2010-09-17T08:08:00.000-07:00

Terri nails it again! This time in a page turning thriller about an online predator. Set in Houston,which being a native Houstonian I was delighted to see, Terri takes you on a thought provoking ride throughout the pages of Predator with a wholesome message about protecting your privacy! Rarely do we ever think about people stalking us using our Facebook and Twitter accounts, but unfortunately, it does happen!

Great job Terri! And as usual, I am looking forward to your next one!

Barnes and Noble: Predator

Author website: Terri Blackstock

Mark A. Beliles & Stephen K. McDowell- America's Providential History

2010-08-05T11:08:00.000-07:00

I have always had an interest in politics and have been voting since I was old enough to do so. And in case you are wondering, I have voted Republican. For the most part, I have felt helpless to change anything. Especially after Barak Hussain Obama took office, in which I personally feel was illegally. Then the Tea Party movement begun and after jumping on the bandwagon, sensed real hope again. In fact my husband and I direct a Tea Party group. Because of this, I have begun reading American History books. I have come to believe that our Founding Fathers wrote the U.S. Constitution based on the bible, and had no intention of the two ever being seperated. That being said, it appears to me that the U.S. Constitution is a covenant between God and the United States. I plan on doing my part to help America keep this covenant.

I would like to quote directly from this book: America's Providential History, Page 20:

"Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every human institution, whether to a king as the one in authority,
or to governors as sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and the praise of those who do right." (1 Peter 2:13-14)

"Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities;... For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil;...for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid;... for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil." (Romans 13:1,3,4)

The purpose of government therefore is to protect the life, liberty and property of all individuals, by punishing evildoers and encouraging the righteous. When governing rulers ever fail to do this, then they themselves are resisting the ordinances of God and are illegitimate authorities who should be resisted and replaced. The main functions, therefore, of the Family, church and civil government are procreation, propagation and protection respectively.

Amazon.com: America's Providential History

Mary K. Baxter-Divine Revelation of Hell

2010-06-09T10:10:00.000-07:00

Wowsers! This book stung! Backed up by multitudes of scripture, Mary K. Baxter relives her experience of being brought down to the depths of hell. The bible supports the reality of a hell, a place where unbelievers go after their death here on earth.

Divine Revelation of Hell Back Matter:

HEAVEN OR HELL?

Over a period of thirty days, God gave Mary K. Baxter visions of hell and commissioned her to tell all to choose life. Here is an account of the place and beings of hell contrasted with the glories of heaven. It is a reminder of the need each of us has for the miracle of salvation.

Divine Revelation of Hell on Amazon

Ministry Website: http://www.nowsthetime.org/

Patricia King-DECREE a thing and it shall be established

2010-05-02T20:29:00.000-07:00

Luke and I bought this book of decrees at Patricia's book table when we went to go see her speak one evening at a church in Pasadena, TX. In fact, Patricia spoke the favor decree (pg.25) over Luke. Full of inspiration, this book is a real pick me up spiritually and is perfect for everyday use. Patricia also has a "Glory School" CD series which teaches you how to walk in the glory of God that I recommend.

Decree a thing and it shall be established

The Glory School

Ministry Website: http://www.extremeprophetic.com/

Ted Dekker-Boneman's Daughters

2010-04-08T07:10:00.000-07:00

I found this book while stuck with a delayed flight in SFO. Fog had encompassed San Francisco while I wandered around the airport munching on junk food and browsing through overpriced stores. Ted Dekker's book caught my eye and I was immediately captured by the first few pages. Keeping me company for the next several hours, I was taken on an adventure through twists and turns wondering who the real BoneMan was. However, I didn't shed any tears until I read the author's note in the back of the book. Great job Mr. Dekker! You found a new fan.

Boneman's Daughters on Amazon
Author Website

Joanne Robinson-he loves me not?

2010-03-10T10:47:00.000-08:00

I adore this book! A MUST READ for single women!!!

Filled with Joanne's dating/marriage experiences, he loves me not? brings home the need for single women to recieve emotional healing before they marry. I relate personally to many of Joanne's stories of lost love and I believe you will to. Joanne also included heart healing exercises and prayers at the end of each chapter which allow the Holy Spirit to work deep in your spirit to bring the freedom you need. Singles, don't miss this book!

Backmatter on he loves me not?:

Have you ever experienced a broken heart or been disappointed by love not working out? Do you wonder why you are attracted to certain types of men who are not right for you but don't know how to change the pattern?

In this book you will read short, true life stories of one woman's experiences of broken relationships and how her life was transformed when she prayed to God for help. The book traces her journey from brokenness to wholeness, from hopelessness to faith, and how God's tender love set her free from the damaging effects of hurtful relationships.

Amazon: he loves me not?
Ministry Website: http://www.loveinseason.net/

Lisa Wingate-Talk of the Town

2010-03-04T18:18:00.000-08:00

I found this fiction novel, Talk of the Town, fun, engaging and easy to read. I thougth the characters were well done and I was fully engaged and looking forward to the next chapter. This is a great book to take on vacation! I plan on reading more Lisa Wingate novels.

Author Website: http://www.lisawingate.com/

David E. Taylor-Face to Face Appearances from Jesus

2010-03-01T08:24:00.000-08:00

I couldn't put this book down! I have re-read several parts and my husband is reading it now. I really enjoyed the teaching on the imperial annointing and about praying in the morning. Good job! I look forward to more books from Mr. Taylor.

Face to Face Appearances from Jesus

Ministry Website: Joshua Media Ministries

Joan Hunter-Healing the Heart

2010-02-11T19:32:00.000-08:00

I saw Joan on Sid Roth's TV show It's Supernatural. I thought "Wow! She's really pretty!" It looked like she was glowing. I watched the show at least twice and bought two of her books, Healing the Heart and Healing the Whole Man Handbook. As soon as I began reading Healing the Heart, I could sense the annointing of the Holy Spirit. I really believe the Lord healed me of past betrayal as I read this book. For anyone who has gone through betrayal, I am convinced this book will help heal your heart. For the other book, Healing the Whole Man Handbook, I will keep this around for a long time. Joan has written out specific prayers for healing. Physical and Emotional. I also received answers for a few questions I had about healing.

Ministry Website: http://www.joanhunter.org/

John Paul Jackson-Needless Casualties of War

2010-02-02T10:43:00.000-08:00

I haven't read a book like this before on spiritual warfare, and I've read many. This book removes the mystery about principalities and territorial curses. How to deal with them. It also explains some of the tragedies that happen in churches who pray against the rulers of darkness. This book answered many of the questions I had about warfare prayer! Ministry website: http://www.streamsministries.com/

Backmatter on Needless Casualties of War :

Are you fighting a deadly force?
Did you know there are certain types of prayers Satan would like you to pray?
Is the enemy wounding you with your own sword?
Are you or your church experiencing calamities that prayer does not remedy?
Heart Attacks, Miscarriages, Runaway children,Sudden illness, Cancer,Untimely deaths.
In this timely book, John Paul Jackson reveals some startling insights that will uncover spiritual strategies of the dark side. Find out how you can protect yourself from Satan's onslaught and escape his unforesenn and unpercieved attacks.

Jonathan Welton-The School of the Seers

2010-01-02T18:39:00.000-08:00

I've been reading this book at night in bed and have found it very interesting. I didn't know there was a difference between a prophet and a seer, but apparently there is. I believe this book is well laid out and I especially enjoy the "Activation" section at the end of each chapter. So If you would like to know "how to see in the Unseen Realm." then you want this book.

The school of the Seers

Ministry Website: http://www.jonwelton.com/

David Green-More than a Hobby

2009-12-13T17:54:00.000-08:00

More than a Hobby is the story of how David Green started Hobby Lobby with $600. He openly references his relationship with Jesus Christ and gives insight of how Hobby Lobby operates. The book is a joyful easy read and is encouraging for business owners.

By the way, I bought a bunch of Christmas decorations from Hobby Lobby this year. Including building a wreath for our front door! They had a huge selection of ornaments for 50% off!

I especially admire how David Green is still married to his first wife!

Dr. David Yonggi Cho-The Fourth Dimension

2009-12-13T17:45:00.000-08:00

Luke and I have read this book several times. There are two volumes and both are equally wonderful. Dr. Cho really digs deep concerning getting answers to prayer. And considering he has built the largest church in the world from scratch, we need to assume he knows quite a bit on the subject! One of my favorite parts is when he encourages a lady to make a "mate list" They pray together and sure enough, not long afterwords, a perfect match shows up!

The Fourth Dimension

Ministry website

Shawn Bolz-Keys to Heaven's Economy

2009-12-05T16:36:00.000-08:00

Keys to Heaven's Economy is EXCELLENT! It is about an angelic visitation he had from the minister of finance along with a visit to Heaven's storehouse! I reread several passages and asked my husband to read them too! I really like the part about how our job here on earth is to make sure Jesus receives his full inheritance!

Thank you Shawn!

Ministry Website: http://www.expression58.org/index.php

Bob Larson-Larson's book of Spiritual Warfare!

2009-11-21T07:11:00.000-08:00

Larson's Book of Spiritual Warfare

This book is immediately captivating and you cannot put it down! Packed with Bob Larson's real encounters with the demonic, this very detailed handbook will help open your eyes! If you ever wanted to know...this is the book to read! I have also read In the name of Satan which is similiar, with many true stories of getting people free from demons!

I saw Bob Larson speak once, and spoke briefly with him (he had no idea I was an author) I was suprised at how full of love he was! Very, very humble! I wasn't expecting that at all! Since the bible says "God resists the proud" he has probably learned to walk in true humility to be able to overcome Satan's schemes!

Bob Larson has also written fiction novels. I enjoyed his three book series, Dead Air, Abbaddon and The Senator's Agenda. I actually had a hard time putting them down. And the MAJORITY of fiction novels I get a hold of, I get bored and can't make it past chapter 2. (That is why you will only see books on my blog that I can say great things about!) I also read his fiction story Shock Talk which is also very well done.

Ministry website: Spiritual Freedom Church

Steve Hill- Operating in the Miraculous

2009-11-21T06:56:00.000-08:00

If you don't know already, Steve Hill was the one preaching at the Brownsville Revival in November 1997 when I repented of my sin and didn't look back. Since then, I have visited his church in Dallas and seen him speak numerous times in Houston.

With that being said, I have an autographed copy of Operating in the Miraculous. The title is self-explainatory! If you are not operating in miracles, then read this book! God WANTS you to heal the sick and cast out devils! This book will help show you how!

I have also read, and given away, his testimony which is written in a small book or pamplet called Stone Cold Heart. Steve was a drug addict and in the middle of an overdose when someone stepped in and led him to Christ. VERY good to pass out and use to evangelize!

Right now, I am reading Steve's book called Wanted: Extreme Christians about his and his wife's life on the mission field...I'm only through the first few chapters and have probably repented twice! Steve's boldness for Christ sets the standard for all of us!

Ministry website: Heartland Church

Rebecca Brown (Yoder) M.D.- Prepare for War (Series)

2009-11-14T10:16:00.000-08:00

Prepare for War He came to set the Captives Free
Becoming a Vessel of Honor

This three book series deals with Spiritual Warfare in a way I haven't seen done before!
I have read these books many times. Pages 66-67 in Prepare for War was an answer to prayer and a huge encouragement for a friend of mine helping her lead someone to Christ. I really appreciate Ms. Brown's boldness. Jesus said a bad tree cannot produce good fruit, and a good tree cannot produce bad fruit. Her books have produced excellent fruit in my life, and several of my friends lives who I have lent the books to.

Ministry website: http://www.harvestwarriors.com/

Terri Blackstock-Double Minds

2009-11-13T14:18:00.000-08:00

Again, another excellent book from Terri Blackstock. I have yet to be disappointed with her writing and I expect to be reviewing many of her books. Double Minds takes the reader to the world of Christian musicdom. Add murder and greed and you have yourself a twisting, fast paced, completely absorbing novel. I found the book fascinating and read it while I was on vaction this year during July 4th weekend.
I found her AFTERWORD especially touching in this novel.

I am sincerly hoping that Terri decides to make this book a series!

Author Website: http://www.terriblackstock.com/

Terri Blackstock-Intervention

2009-11-13T14:08:00.000-08:00

Last night I finished Terri Blackstock's novel, Intervention. Not only is it very well written, paced correctly and hard to put down, but Terri is able to pull from personal experience. This novel is about a widowed woman who has to intervene concerning her teenage daughter's drug use. Since Terri had to personally go through an intervention with her own daughter, she pushed the emotional side on what a family member has to go through when a loved one has an addiction.

Author Website: http://www.terriblackstock.com/

Book Reviews!!!!

2009-11-13T13:47:00.000-08:00

Are you ready for some good reviews on Christian literature? I read a lot of it so I thought it would be helpful if I posted what I've read.

You won't find any bad reviews on here, I'm an author so I already know how hard it is to put together a book and publish it. Instead, on the books that I've found helpful, or really enjoyed, I will list them with a review underneath. My husband Luke, will do the same!