The Charlatan's Boy

"The Charlatan's Boy, by Jonathan Rogers is a unique story of right and wrong. Floyd, the ever present showman takes Grady an orphan without any past or apparent future, and transforms him into a showman. Floyd is the consomit showman and flim flammer, who cheats the unsuspecting people of the countryside out of their coppers by fakery and shams. Grady, who has no family that he can remember, other than what Floyd tells him, is transformed into a showman's apprentice. He takes great pride in becoming a Wild Man of the Feechiefen Swamp.

This story takes the reader from Floyd's and Grady's antics of Feechiefen to Phrenology and back to Feechiefendum. Along the way Grady meets some interesting characters and finds himself pitted against some strange and not so particularly handsome people when staring as the Ugliest Boy in the World Show. Once that gig plays out, both he and Floyd go back to their antics of promoting the Great Freechie Scare. What both Floyd and Grady don't know is what is right around the corner.

This story startes out slow, but with each chapter, the reader finds himself or herself wanting to learn more about Grady. the young man without a past and what appears to be no future. Jonathan Rogers has done a great job of pulling the reader into the story and at the end, I'm sure you will be pleasantly surprised.

Seeds of Turmoil, Bryant Wright

Have you ever considered the reasons why there is so much hate and mistrust in the Middle East? Bryant Wright, author of "Seeds of Turmoil", sets out to enlighten the reader of the whys and wherefores of these conflicts. The "Seeds of Turmoil", takes the reader on a journey of the Bible to find out who is involved.

As it is soon realized, we find in Genisis, that Abram and his wife Sarai along with Sarai's Egyptian maid, Hagar, had two sons. The first born, was Ishmael, the son of Abram and Hagar, as at that time, Sarai, was barren. As the Scriptures tell, God had promised Abram and Sarai, that they would have children, or at least a son, who would become a great nation. At a very advanced age, Abram and Sarai, did have that son, Esau. I won't go into detail, here, but these two boys were polar opposites. And from these two as well as from their parents, trouble was been brewing in the Middle East ever since.
What I have found amazing, is that the author, takes the Scriptures to explain in easy to understand as well as intelligent format, just how the Middle East became such a ground of turmoil. It's no wonder there is so much conflict. Most of the story of Abram, or Abraham as he was later named by God, can be found in the Book of Genesis. Wright, also delves into the histories and points from all sides of the issues. He does not function purely on his knowledge of the Bible, but utilizes other sources of information to glean his book, "Seeds of Turmoil". Thank you Bryant Wright for doing your homework, while researching the information and then wrighting it in such a spectacular way. "Seeds of Turmoil" is bound to make the Christian Best Sellers List.

The Holy Bible, New King James Version

There is no one but God who can rate this wonderful collection of Books. Just wanted to let my followers know that I have completed the reading of the Bible for the year 2010. I will be reading the King James version in 2011.

Three Seconds, Roslund & Hellstrom

I have just finished reading a Crime Suspense novel entitled "Three Seconds", by Swedish authors Roslund & Hellstrom. This novel takes place in Sweden and involves the Police using criminals to infiltrate various factions, such as the various Mafias in the area. The main charactor, Piet Hoffmann (aka) Paula, is being handled by a police officer by the name of Wilson. They are trying to infiltrate the Polish mafia and take over the Drug trade in the prisons. Piet, is going to go to prison as an informant to take out the Polish Mafia's drug business.

The story is good, however, it takes a couple of hundred pages to develop. The entire first part of the story is devoted to character development, and even then the reader is not quite sure who is who, and what is actually going on. From Part 2 on, the story takes off and you as the reader find yourself playing detective. The main character for the police is a older Detective by the name of Ewert Grens. He is methodical in his approach and reminds me of the old Columbo series on television. Grens does not give up when he is faced with trying to interview Hoffmann, and then after a siege at the prison, Grens is put in charge of the scene when Piet Hoffmann, takes hostages. Grens also is dealing with other issues in his life, such as the loss of his wife. Between the loss of his wife and the current situation with an infiltrator/criminal, Grens is relentless.

Piet Hoffmann, is also dealing with leaving his wife Zofia and his two children. He is tornbut feels that he must act according to what his police handler is asking him to do. All in all, this story is very good, with what I considered an unexpected finale.

I have just had the wonderful opportunity to read a fictional novel, entitled "Hostile Intent", by Michael Walsh. This gripping tale of terror and espionage spans the United States, London and France, as well as being a world wide threat. Devlin one of the stories main characters is a member of an elite branch known as Branch 4. This branch is unknown to everyone, including the President of the United States. the story starts with an apparent hostage taking in a small mid western town where a group of men or maybe, just one man plots to take school children hostage, while plotting to expose another man. Families are torn and are willing to do anything to save their childrens lives. Next there is a bombing on the West Coast, followed by another event in Europe. All of these events are a plot to entice our main character into exposing himself. Devlin is also learning more about his own life and past whle dealing with all that is going on around him. This story is gripping and hard to put down, once the reader starts with the first page of the novel. Bravo to Michael Walsh for his attention to detail and superb writing ability. This novel is bound to be a Top Seller and on the Best Sellers List.

Heaven Is For Real,

I've had the pleasure of listening to the Audio version of Todd Burpo's "Heaven Is For Real". This story is narrated and explained through the eyes of a young boy, at an age, when he would not have had the opportunity to have his head filled with anyone else's thoughts about Heaven and God. This story starts off with the young Colton Burpo, the authors son, is stricken ill when his appendix bursts and is mis-diagnosed for a short period of time. During the tragedy, Colton is being filled internally by the poisons that came about by the burst appendix and ends up having to be operated on, in an emergency situation. Without the surgery, he is sure to die. Following the surgery and ensuing recovery, Colton relates many things about his family, some he never has met and would not known any particulars about. He speaks of Heaven as if he has been there, and his father, Pastor Todd Burpo, is astounded by the detail in which Colton relates his visions and knowledge of things he would not have otherwise been privy. Many times he (Colton surprises his family by coming up with a number of different situations, which cannot be explained by his family or the Doctors. Did Colton die for a short period of time on the Operating Table? The Doctors and surgical staff never said that he had lost his pulse or heart beat throughout the surgery, but how else would Colton know so much. This Audio recording is wonderfully narrated, I believe by the Author, Todd Burpo and the different inflections of voice and tone, brings the listener/reader right into the story. Another question which comes to mind, is this, - Would God take a child like Colton to heaven, even briefly, and then return him to his family? Only you can decide that for yourself. Whether this is a true story or not, I can't say, but what a wonderful hope that God has done this with Colton and then allow his father to write such a glorious story. This story covers a time span of seven years. Colton was 4 when he had the emergency appendectomy, and from that point on through the age of eleven, Colton reveals numerous unknowns and miracles. Thank you Pastor Burpo for this story, and sharing it with us.

I Lift Up My Soul, Charles F. Stanley

What a wonderful way to reflect on God's Word. This devotional is well written and full of words of wisdom from God Himself. Charles F. Stanley, has taken God's Word through Scripture and broken each though for the Soul so to refresh the Believer. As you open to the first day of devotions, you will find the appropriate Scripture for reading. As you read the scripture, you will get a warm feeling which can sooth your soul and entire being. If you start your day with Charles Stanley's "I Lift Up My Soul", you can only have peace of mind and righteousness of heart. Thank you to Dr. Stanley for his understanding of the Scriptures and breaking them down in easy to understand devotionals for each and every one of us. This devotional is and will be used each and every day, as a start to the day.

Winter Preparations

Winter can be harsh on your motor vehicle. With that in mind, I have a few tips to consider, before winter sets in.
1. Have the Oil Changed in your motor vehicle.
2. While your motor vehicle is being serviced, make sure that the Auto Technician checks the Anti-Freeze. He or She should be looking at the Freeze Point, Corrosion Protection and the percentage of antifreeze to water. It should be a 50/50 mix. You can purchase a pre-mixed Anti-Freeze at your local auto parts store or any reliable garage.
3. Insure that your tires are properly inflated and that the tread is good. It may be necessary to change over to snow tires.
Lastly, make sure that you consult your motor vehicle's owner manual for any considerations due to the type or make of your vehicle, in the event there are any special requirements needed to be addressed.

The "Big Red" Holy Bible - Contemporary 3-D Art, by Thomas Nelson, is a wonderful and easy to understand Bible for children. It is an interpretation of the Sixty Six Books of the Bible, so that children between the ages of Eight and Twelve years of age can fully comprehend God's Word. As you go through this wonderful Bible, there are many images and art work to help the children fully grasp what is being said in the text. These images are drawn and designed to give the appearance of 3-D so that the images stand out. Thanks to the initiative of Thomas Nelson, each Book of the Bible can be read and understood by our younger children, giving them the opportunity to come to Christ with an open heart and a free spirit.

The Least Among You - Movie Review

“The Least Among You” a production of Lionsgate and presented by Witenuckle LLC & Rough Diamond Productions, is a movie based on a true story of faith, family and commitment. Richard Kelly, played by Cedric Sanders, is a young man arrested during the 1965 Watts Riots for beating a police officer. He is sentenced to probation, providing he attends an all White Seminary. When Kelly arrives at the seminary, he finds obstacles there that dwarf those on the outside world.
What I expected was to be watching the trials and tribulations of faith in one young man, only to find that many if not all of the characters in this film were battling with their own faith and commitment. This movie has many top name actors. Louis Gossett, Jr,, the gardener, Lauren Holly, the schools’ only female professor, and William Devane, the schools’ administrator are just a few of the wonderful actors which bring this story to life.
Along the way Kelly, played by Cedric Sanders, finds that he is bucking a system at every turn, yet keeps fighting for what is right. He finds a mentor in Samuel Benton, the gardener, played by Louis Gossett Jr.
My favorite line in this movie is “Leaders are not chosen, they’re called.” God speaks to each and every one of us in His own way. We need to listen and be ready to do His work. As the title implies, it is not always the strong and mighty that are called, but in most cases the weakest or the least of us are to take charge when change needs to be made.
This is a wonderful movie that should be an inspiration to anyone who sees it.

The Wake of Forgiveness

"The Wake of Forgiveness" by Bruce Machart, is a novel of the hard life of a family at the turn of the twentieth century. This novel tells the story of loss and life. We follow the life of Karel Skala, the main character, as he goes through hard times, with the loss of his mother during his birth. We see trials and tribulations between families and within family. It's a story of love lost and found with many twists and turns along the way. The story jumps back and forth in time giving the reading a glimpse into the history of the family and Karel's life as well as how his life turns out in the end. Machart has an interesting way to telling the story and you will not know what to expect with each subsequent chapter. One major event, brings a family back together, and community shows that it cares for it's own. A very good read.

Out Live Your Life, by Max Lucado

"Out Live Your Life," by Max Lucado, is a wonderfully scripted book which guides the reader on life's journey. Lucado utilizes Scripture to show and explain what we can do with our life, beyond the readers imagination and only through God. Each chapter is an expose of how life creeps up on each of us and before we know it, time passes, and if we're not careful or alert to what God has created for each of us, our time could be up. Many times it takes something dramatic to turn our lives around and begin to listen to God. We were all created by Him for a purpose. What we have to do is Pray, Listen, to what God is telling us, and then Act. You'll be amazed at what He has created us to do. Chapter 3 entitled ' Let God Unshell You', is the story of a man who has not listened to what God has been telling him, and through this example, turns the man around. When he encounters a man in old clothes and looking dirty, is attempting to purchase items and a convenience story with food stamps, finds that he can not afford the purchased because he doesn't have enough monetary value in food stamps to complete his purchase. The first man reverts back into his shell after briefly starting to offer to help pay for the purchases. In the end, God strips away the shell and shows us that we need to help. My favorite passage from this chapter is as follows: 'Let God unshell you. And when He does, make a careful exploration of who you are and the work you have been given, and then sink yourself into that. (Gal. 6:4) Don't miss the opportunity to discover your language.' Each chapter ends with Scripture, which follows the reading throughout the chapter. Bravo Max Lucado for another wonderful read and study.

"The Heavens Proclaim His Glory"

“If God has the power to create and sustain the universe, how can you or I think His power is insufficient for our daily lives?” Anne Graham Lotz
“The Heavens Proclaim His Glory” is majestic in picture, Scripture, and quotation. The photographs taken by the Hubble Telescope are breathtaking and wondrous, and the facts associated with each help you understand what you are seeing. God’s mighty hand is truly evident in the heavens! Children and adults alike will enjoy learning more about this pristine world of space while reading this book. This is definitely an encouragement to get out a telescope and a Bible, sit in the backyard, look at the heavens, and enjoy.
I was blown away by the pictures in this book. It is something I have shared with everyone who has come in our door, and the book has a prominent place on our coffee table. This isn’t really a book to be picked up and read straight through, but rather one that you can savor time and time again. I want to thank the Book Sneeze program for the opportunity to read and review this wonderful book.

The Butterfly Effect, Andy Andrews

Andy Andrews has captured the attention of the literary world again, with his writing of "The Butterfly Effect." This insightful read will grab you from the beginning and you won't be able to let go. This selection gives the reader the insight to realize that what we do, does matter, and in fact, the effects of what we do can and will be felt for eternity. A prime example of this theory, is the story of Joshua Lawerance Chamberlain, a schoolteacher from Maine, who finds himself leading a Union force during the battle of Gettysburg, during the American Civil War. His decisions and actions taken that July 2, 1863 had great impact on the outcome of that battle and probably the end of the war itself. The above is just one example of what you will read in "The Butterfly Effect. My favorite quote can be found right at the beginning and is by Any Andrews himself. "Every single thing you do matters. You have been created as one of a kind. You have been created in order to make a difference. You have within you the power to change the world." This quote says it all. We are in control of our lives and it's up to each and every one of us to use that power and to make the correct decisions and correct actions. Thank you Andy for another wonderful and thought provoking read.

The Jesus You Can't Ignore

Right from the beginning, MacCarthur shows through explanation, the lessons which must be learned from the ‘Bold Confrontation of Christ.’ This is noted prominently on the cover, as well as the title page.
“The Jesus You Can’t Ignore,” by John MacCarthur, is a premier explanation of God’s love for us. MacCarthur’s depiction and clear cut explanation of Jesus’ time on earth should convince even the hardest heart that He came to earth as the Savior of all mankind. I would venture to say that even the hardest heart would be transfixed and softened by the descriptions and the Scripture used throughout this Study Guide. If the Preface and Introduction don’t convince the reader of the power of God, all they need to do is begin reading Chapter One, ‘When It’s Wrong to Be Nice.’
This chapter begins with Scripture from Luke 20:45-46 – Then in the audience of all the people He said unto His disciples, “Beware of the scribes, which desire to walk in long robes, and love greetings in the market, and the highest seats in the synagogues. And the chief rooms at feasts. (KJV). In this portion of the Scripture, Jesus is speaking of the Sanhedrin and the Sadducees, not to mention the Pharisees themselves.
Jesus came to earth to teach and of course take away our sin. The question which arises here is whether we as sinners are going to accept Jesus as our Savior.
In “The Jesus You Can’t Ignore,” the reader is confronted with the Truth. Jesus was not always kind or gentle in His teachings. Sometimes He needs to be blunt, as evidenced with His conversations, battles and confrontations with the Pharisees. MacCarthur explains how the religious leaders tended to add rites and rituals beyond what God intended, and when Jesus confronted them with it, the Pharisees rebelled. Such a waste on their part.
I could go on for quite a long time, but, I strongly urge everyone to purchase and read/study the manuscript of John MacCarthur’s “The Jesus You Can’t Ignore.”

The Scent of Rain and Lightning

"The Scent of Rain and Lightning", by Nancy Pickard, is the story of murder, secrets, love and lies. It is the story of a young lady, Jody Linder, who at a very early age, losses her father to death as a result of murder, and at the same time her mother disappears at the same time of the murder.

The Linder family, a prominent well to do family of Rose, Kansas, where they have a large ranch and employee many young men. Hugh and Annabelle Linder also have kind hearts when it comes to trouble youth. They take them in as employees and offer guidance to assist the trouble youth in getting their lives straightened out. Many of these young men have turned their lives around, but one, Billy Crosby, is the exception to the rule. For some reason, he just doesn't get it. He in turn, becomes the prime suspect in most everything that goes wrong in the town and county, and he is also suspect in the murder and missing case. But did Billy have anything to do with the murder of Hugh-Jay and the disappearance of Laurie Linder?

The question right from the beginning is who murdered Hugh Jay and where is Laurie? It takes a span of twenty plus years for the Linder family to find out the true story. As you read this story, there are many ups and downs in the lives of the characters, throughout, and you will find yourself cheering on many of the characters. Each character is unique in their own way.

As the title "The Scent of Rain and Lightning" suggests, there are storms, literal and in the lives of the people involved in this novel, which have great impact on the story.

Pickard has a wonderful knack of grabbing the reader right from the start, and pulling them into the story and keeping them there. You will find yourself in the lives of each of her characters, and you will not be able to let go throughout the story.

The Portable Patriot

"The Portable Patriot", is a wonderful and essential collection of writings from our forefathers, those men who took their faith and desires literally and therefore, began a transition from colonial establishment to the birth of a new nation. One must note that "The Portable Patriot" is a collection of excerpts of these famous and necessary documents, otherwise this book would be just to large to carry with the reader. Joel J. Miller and Kristen Parrish, have obviously taken great time and apparent pleasure in bringing these documents, speeches, and sermons together so that we as readers, can drink in the sources of the Patriotic natures of our forefathers. This collection beckons the reader to think about their own Patriotism and asks the question of that Patriotism that only each individual can answer. This book/collection also provokes the reader to look at today's conditions and activities with a more than passing glance. The question that comes to mind of this reader is "What would our founders think about the conditions and actions of our country today?" At the very onset of this collection of "I. Beginnings" ' The Mayflower Compact', through and all inclusive of The section 'Afterword,' we can get a glance if not a more in depth look at what was a birth of a nation. I find it appropriate that I am writing this review on July 4, 2010. What a wonderful way to celebrate our nation's birthday. Happy Birthday to The United States of America. While reading this collection of documents, speeches and sermons, I was reminded that we must all be vigilant in the protection of our rights and obligations as citizens of this great country. It was most revealing in reading Noah Webster's Oration on the Twenty-Sixth Anniversary of The Declaration of Independence. This is a quote from the section. Noah Webster warns America about those who would advance their own interests through the political system, and by pandering to the people even seducing and deceiving them. "Nation like individuals, may be misled by an ardent enthusiasm, which allures them from the standard of practical wisdom, and commits them to the guidance of visionary projectors. By fondly cherishing the opinion that they enjoy some superior advantages of knowledge, or local situation, the rulers of a state may lose the benefit of history and observation, the surest guides in political affairs; and delude themselves with the belief, that obstacles which have baffled the exertions of their predecessors.....". Finally, "The Portable Patriot" is truly portable in size, but it is also jam packed with everything a person needs to remind them as to where and how our great nation started and it is a constant reminder to all of us of how fragile our freedom is. Let us all be ready and willing to protect that freedom.

Book Giveaway!!!!!

Hello Everyone,

I have the opportunity to offer a Book Giveaway of the book The Heart Mender, by Andy Andrews. This is a telling story of forgiveness and second chances. If you would like the opportunity to this Giveaway Copy, Respond to this post. The giveaway will be open until June 30, 2010 and the winner will be picked randomly. Good Luck

Mike

The Writing Circle, by Corinne Demas

"The Writing Circle", by Corinne Demas is a journey down a path which has many hidden twists and turns. When you first begin to read this novel, you are introduced to a cast of characters which in many instances, would not be together except for their love of the written word. Each is a writer/author and each is dedicated to their own personal writing styles.
You will also find that in many cases, these characters show traits of infidelity as well as unscrupulous tendencies towards each other and towards those around them. This group has formed a Writing Circle, which meets on Sunday evenings to discuss their current writing ventures for critiques and encouragement from the group, however there is at least one member who is there to further her own agenda. That person is Gillian a well known poet. She is also a stepmother to Paul a troubled young man, now living with his father and stepmother (Gillian). He appears to have no friends and is torn between wanting to stay with his father and moving back with his mother.
The main character, at least in my opinion is Nancy, a writer of novels. She is now writing a novel, which may be based on her father, but is probably a fictional work. There are also a number of other characters involved with the story and each has their own hang up and desires dealing with their occupations and preoccupations.
Needless to say, Demas, takes the reader on a roller coaster ride of emotions as well as many twists and turns. Just when you think you have the plot figured out, another turns throws you into a dizzying spin.

Bravo to Corinne Demas for a wonderful suspenseful novel.

Jeff Shaara's Civil War Battlefields

"Jeff Shaara's Civil War Battlefields", is a must for anyone interested in the American Civil War and it's history. Jeff Shaara has taken up the mantle of research and discovery to bring all the information about the Civil War to those historians and history buffs alike.
This book is broken down into 10 battles. Each battle is thoroughly discussed and includes the why's and where's the battles were fought. As you read through the sections, you can begin to understand what was going on a the time of the battle as well as understand what each commander was thinking during each battle.
Falling each section Shaara describes points of interest for you as you go to these battlefields. Not only are the touristy points noted, but he points to some areas which may not be mentioned by tour guides and catalogs.
What I learned while reading this book, was that not all the well known battles were on importance, but that there were many so called insignificate battles which actully had influenced the outcome of the war.
As a history buff myself, I found this book extremely informative and recommend it to anyone who wants to learn more about some of the battles of the American Civil War.

Experiencing God, Henry T. Blackaby & Claude V. King

"Experiencing God" by Henry T. Blackaby and Claude V. King, is another in a series of Study Guides I have been thoroghly happy to have read. This guide takes the reader through a series of expectations that anyone who reads and studies the Bible through easy to understand stories and Scripture.
This book allows the reader to first read the text, followed by going to their Bible and looking at the full Scripture being discussed. It also allows the reader to gain that fleeting knowledge and apply it to their everyday life.
As this book begins, we are first introduced to the Chapter "Knowing God by Experience". One of my favorite quotes in this chapter is that of the Lord as Provider. "We can know about God as a Provider as we read the story of Abraham. But we really come to know God as Provider when we experience Him providing something for our lives." Just think, as we experience God, in the truest sense, we develop a closer relationship with God. He does provide.
"Experiencing God" is yet another selection that should be part of the Christen Library. Thank you Blackaby and King for putting together this realistic and true information.

The Heart Mender

At the first glance of the cover of this book/story, the reader can gain some insight into what they will find inside. Is it a love story, a story of intrigue, a story of espionage, a war story, a story of a combination of two or more? These are the questions that each reader will have to decide for themselves.

As I started my journey towards the story line and answers to the questions noted above, I was immediately captivated by the characters. What I especially liked was the initial part of the story, being told by and through the author himself. "The Heart Mender." by Andy Andrews, takes us on a roller coaster ride of emotions and surprises. Just when you think you have a character pinned down, Andrews, throws another twist in the story.

For me, this is apparently a true story which gives the reader an opportunity into finding out how World War II comes to America, and focuses on the Gulf of Mexico, around the area of Florida and Alabama. "The Heart Mender," starts off by the discovery of strange items or should I say interesting and out of place items which compels the author to do research on the items and then find that he is being thrust into the past. This is where the journey and story starts, but by know means does it end where it begins.

Helen and Josef, are the novel's main characters, but the story is filled with many characters which help to bring the story to life. Both Helen and Josef and searching for answers, yet neither of them is willing to admit this. Andrews also uses the great cast of characters to bring this story to the forefront our of minds. It also made me think about what was really happening in and around this country during World War II. This story is one which should prompt the reader to find out more about the time. It certainly give me cause to do more research into the war and my own area of the country.

What I learned from this story is that when confronted with a situation or condition, things may not be as they appear. What we must do is to have faith and sometimes look beyond the apparent.

Thank you Andy Andrews for writing this compelling story. It should cause any reader to stop and think. Do we really see what is there, or is there something else going on? This question can be asked in many instances. Andy you certainly know how to write a story that captivates a reader immediately.

The Man From Saigon, Marti Leimbach

Marti Leimbach, has a wonderful style of writing which draws the reader into the story from the start. This is obvious in "The Man From Saigon", a story of a female reporter/journalist, In-Country, to give reports of the war from the side of a woman, for a Women's Magazine.
As the story unfolds, Susan Gifford is sent Saigon to cover the war in 1967. She fuinds and falls in love with another reporter, Marc, a TV Reporter, who is also in Saigon covering the war. There is a thrid main character, in Susan's photographer, Son, a Vietnamese man who is looking to make a name for himself, yet finds Susan and wants her to take him on as her photographer.
Right from the start you see drama and unexpected turns in the story. Susan is the type of reporter/journalist that does not want to stay in Saigon and cover the war from a press conference point of view, so she ventures out with patrols of military personnel to get the story right from the source.
The question I have is whether this novel is a non-fiction, fiction, or historical fiction. Many of the details are true to form with descriptins of conditions and topography throughout the story, and Marti Leimbach has done a lot of research for the time period. Bravo Marti.
There's also the hiden agenda of Son. What are his true movites for wanting to be so close to Susan and the American Military establishment. Is he up to no good, or are his intentions really what he wants us to believe? You'll have to read this novel to find out for yourself.
When Susan and Son are seperated from their esorts of military personnel in the jungle, a new set of circumstances take place which again, will keep the reader on the edge of the seat. What is the outcome? Again, this is a must read.
"The Man From Saigon", belongs in a permanent library for reading over and over again.

Plan B

Have you ever considered the choices you make are not really from you? How about your plans for your life including marriage, children and career path? Just when you think everything is going the way you wanted or expected your life too be, something happens to completely change your life. This is when plan A goes out the window and plan B must be initiated.
"Plan B" by Pete Wilson is a wonderful study guide for the Christen and anyone else who is going through what they perceive as bad times. In "Plan B", Pete Wilson attempts to explain why we must resort to our plan B, when life throws a curve ball or monkey wrench into our lives. Like the cover says, "What do you do when God doesn't show up the way you thought He would?"
Wilson has broken "Plan B" into fourteen sections or chapters. He takes each section and gives us understanding through Scripture and life experiences to help the reader gain a better understanding of life and God's Plan for each and every one of us.
Once of my favorite quotes comes in Chapter Three "The Illusion of Control" and is as follows. "The greatest of all illusions is the illusion of control." How true that is, and Wilson does a great job of explaining each point. Another illusion we face is that we are unable to let go. In other words, we don't allow God to control our lives. Included in this chapter we also see and hear the story of David, as Wilson uses it to demonstrate our control, or should I say the lack thereof, of control. We just need to relinquish control of our lives to God. I believe that when we don't get the answers to our prayers, it's not because God's not answering, but He may be saying not yet, or it's not what He has planned for you.
"Plan B" unlike our own plans, or plan A, is a leap of faith. We mus learn to fully trust in the Lord. This is just one of the points made in Wilson's "Plan B."
In my opinion, Pete Wilson and his book "Plan B" is yet another wonderful addition to a Christen Library. At the end of this book you will find a number of questions, that can be used by an individual, or used as a teaching and discussion guide to questions you may have. Pete Wilson also admits that he does not have all the answers, but he does say that he trusts in God and is working to at allowing God to work in every aspect of his life.

Just A Sailor, Steven L. Waterman

"Just A Sailor", by Steve Waterman, is a travel through time of a man who went from what could have been a life of trouble to that of a man who made something of himself following his enlistment in the U.S. Navy. Waterman decided to become a naval photographer, and went as far as joining and being accepted into the UDT's (Underwater Demolition Team. This extrodinary story takes the reader from civilian life, through Boot Camp, to A school and beyond, culminating into his experiences in combat during the Vietnam War and then back in the states, doing Salvage operations. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in learning a true life story through the eyes and words of someone who has been there.
As I read this story, I was able to remember some of the places I had been shortly after Waterman had been there. I especially have fond memories of NAS Oceana, Virginia Beach, Virginia.
This story is not just about a sailor, but one of life, and the ability to grow from ones experience.

66 Love Letters, Dr. Larry Crabb

"From God To You, 66 Love Letters" by Dr. Larry Crabb, is truly just that, a collection of Love Letters from God to you. Dr. Larry Crabb has taken each of the 66 Books of the Bible, and broken them down into easily understandable text, so that the lay person can fully understand exactly what God is saying to us through His story. Starting with Genesis and continuing on through Revelation, each book in broken down into a Love Letter as though God is speaking directly to you as you read it. In fact, I'm sure God is right there with you and me, as we read and realize what is meant in each and every letter. If you have ever taken on the right to read the Bible, as I have and do, this wonderful collection is a great study tool that will enhance and should be in every Christen library. I am currently re-reading the Bible in chronological order, and when I find something I haven't or don't understand, "66 Love Letters", makes it clear. An excerpt from the book states "Learn To Hate Sin More Than Suffering." This comes from Love Letter Six: Joshua. In this letter God is explaining the battles we must fight within ourselves so that we conquer everything that opposes God within us. The entire book gives the reader the opportunity to get things right with God. The previous statement is just one example of what you'll find when reading "66 Love Letter." Are you someone who has accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior? By reading these Love Letters you can gain the understanding of each of the 66 Books of the Bible, and that can only mean that each of us can get closer to God. This collection could also be a tool for helping to bring someone else closer to God and possibly allow them to accept Jesus Christ as their Savior. Now wouldn't that be wonderful? Dr. Larry Crabb has done a spectacular job of breaking things down and I for one applaud his efforts. Bravo Dr. Crabb, and thank you.

Seized, Max Hardberger

A dangerous profession is what I call that of Max Hardberger. He has allowed us into his world of retaking of seized ships of all types and sizes from the not so friendly waters of some seemingly brutal countries in the world. Mr. Hardberger also interjects some humor into what could be called one of the most dangerous professions known, and maybe not so well known. The taking of a ship with no power and allowing it to drift into international waters without being detected is something this reader did not expect to read in the story of his life. Thank you so much Max, for a story that is worth telling.

The Poacher's Son

The Poacher's Son is an epic tail of mystery and intrigue. Doiron is a wonderful author who knows how to capture the attention of the reader while weaving a storyline with lots of twists and turns, not to forget to mention the mystery following the murder of a Deputy Sheriff and that of a land grabbing official, bent on taking the forest for development. The story begins with Mike Bowditch a Maine Warden dealing with the theft of a pig by a bear in the Maine Forest. Mike Bowditch is relatively new to the Warden Service, so he depends on his immediate supervisor Kathy Frost to assist him in tracking the bear. When Mike's father is blamed for the murders, Mike is caught in a cross fire of his duty to the law enforcement community and his wanting to believe that his father had nothing to do with the murders. Doiron has quite a cast of characters in his first novel. There's Jack Bowditch, Russ Pelletier, owner of a Sporting Camp, Truman Dellis, a strange man, known for poaching and being on the shady side of the law. Then there's Brenda Dellis, the daughter of Truman Dellis and the girlfriend of Jack Bowditch. There''s also a retired Warden by the name of Charlie. Each of these characters has a motive for the murders, and you don't know which way this story is going to lead. The story is set in the Maine forests and Doiron has painted a wonderful picture which allows the reader to feel as though they are right there in the midst of the story. This story is a must read for anyone interested in a good mystery from an author with great potential as a first rate and best selling author. Bravo to Paul Doiron on his first works. This novel should be in everyone's permanent library.

The Poacher's Son

Apocalypse Burning

“Apocalypse Burning”, by Mel Odom, is the third in a series of three of the military actions at the time of the Rapture and the beginning of the Tribulation. This purely fictional account follows one military family as they continue to deal with the disappearance of the youngest son, Chris, as well as the deployment of Goose, a First Sergeant, with the 75th Army Rangers. Megan, Goose’s wife is a counselor back in the United States and is dealing with not only the disappearance of her youngest son, but she deals with teens on the base who have either had family Raptured or their family members are in Turkey.
Joey, the oldest son of Megan and Goose is feeling neglected and despondent because he blames himself for not being there when Chris disappears. He is feeling left out and runs away when Megan, his mother brings so many teens into their house for both counseling and protection. Megan also has to deal with the military accusations of dereliction of duty as a counselor.
As you can see there is much going on during this episode, so to speak, and Odom has done a wonderful job of bringing his series together in a tight cohesive story of loss, questions and faith.
There are also other characters we follow is this book, such as Chaplin Harte, U.S. Navy Chaplin who is trying to deal with his own failings as a man of the cloth, and there’s also other’s, too many to mention that have great influence in the story as it is being told.
Bravo to Mr. Odom, for his depiction of the events following the Rapture, leading into the Tribulation. This purely fictional story is only one way of looking at the End Times, but who knows, it may be just the way Odom writes it. This military series fits well with the original Left Behind series and there is also a political series which may be of interest to anyone who is interested in learning more about the Rapture and Tribulation

Buried Alive, Roy Hallums

“Buried Alive”, by Roy Hallums is an extremely thought provoking true story of being kidnapped and held by extremists in Iraq. The story is told through and by the author, Roy Hallums as he takes the reader from the being to the end of a very painful and secluded imprisonment. Most of the time, he is held underground and literally buried alive by his captors.
As you pick up this book, you see the shadow of a man who appears to be in a seated position, with his hands behind his back, probably tied and his eyes are blindfolded. It appears that he is in a dark place and very uncomfortable. Reading the introduction gives you just a brief look into what this man went through for so many days and months. I can only imagine the courage and fortitude he had to endure such treatment and conditions.
Hallums tells his story in a matter of fact and simple way which brings the reader right into the scenes as well as giving the reader such vivid detail that no one can miss the terror he must have felt, with the beatings and degradation. Once can only guess how he felt, not knowing whether he was going to come out this terror alive or would he be beheaded like so many in the past had been.
It seems strange to point out here that this story was told in vivid and chilling detail, and this reader could not put the book down. You will become completely absorbed into the story, waiting to find out what is going to happen next. !!!
What can be learned from the story, is that with the right mind set and courage, even the most brutal of conditions can be overcome. Hallums appears to be a man of faith and he spent a lot of time praying and thinking about his family. He endured the conditions and initial movements from one site to the next, with a hope of survival and eventual rescue.
Another segment of his story deals with how his family dealt with his kidnapping. First the family is kept completely out of the loop of information, even to the point where officials were telling them not to speak to the media for fear that Hallums captors would find out more about the man they help captive. This could have been dangerous for Hallums as he is a retired U. S. Naval Commander, who was a civilian contractor in Iraq, at the time of his kidnapping.
The eventual rescue is also something to wait for.
This story is in deed a must read for anyone who wants to know exactly what happens to kidnap victims, however, as Hallums notes, he was lucky. Not all kidnap victims get out alive, and very seldom is there a successful escape. This story is rated 5 stars. A very compelling story, not to be missed.

Eternal of the Water, by Joseph Monninger

"Eternal on the Water", by Joseph Monninger, is destined to become a classic in it's own rite. It is a beautiful story of love and desire to live life to the fullest. Monninger takes the New England rustic area and gives us a look through the eyes of Mary and Cobb, as they find each other fall in love and live life to it's fullest. There's no looking back as these two show that life can be great, if only we allow it to be. The story initially takes place on the Allagash River in Maine, where Mary is set to visit some old and new friends, the Chungamunga Girls, while Cobb is living the life of Thoreau. The two meet and are forever tied to each other. If you don't believe in Love at first sight, this story may just change your mind. This story also has a wonderful cast of supporting roles, and as you read, you may find yourself falling in love with each of them. Mary and Cobb are meant be be together, and you see that right from the start. Once you start reading the story, you won't want to put the book down. It is that good. Bravo Joseph, you have a great eye and way of telling a story. Thank you so much

Winter Vehicle Maintenance (Anti-Freeze) Flush

Winter can be extremely harsh on your motor vehicle. Cold weather tends to put a harsher draw on your battery and it is also harder for the oil to get up into the valves, on colder days. This is why it is vitally important to winterize your motor vehicle. By having the anti-freeze checked, you can prevent a frozen block and the proper flow of coolant/antifreeze throughout your engine and radiator. A good automotive technician should be checking your anti-freeze/coolant when he or she changes your oil.
A good practice is have have the anti-freeze flushed and replaced every 3 years or 30,000 miles, which ever comes first for Green Coolant/Anti-freeze. Dex-Cool should be changed every 100,000 miles, but again, if you live in New England, it is suggested that Dex-Cool should be replaced at 60,000 miles.
When the automotive technician checks your anti-freeze, he or she is checking for a couple of different things. First of all they are looking at the acidic nature of the fluid. Too much acid in the fluid can cause the eating away of your radiator. Next they are looking at the corrosion protection. If the corrosion level is at 3.2 or below 3.0, corrosion is building up in your radiator, which causes poor flow of the fluid, thus possibly causing your engine to crack or freeze up. No flow is BAD.
Lastly, they will be looking at the level at which your anti-freeze/coolant is measured. This is measured at Temperature. The lower the temp. rating the better the protection, however, you must look at all the tests to make sure your vehicle is protected. A failure in any of the tests should prompt you to have the fluid flushed and replaced.

Car Maintenance Basics Articles Are Coming Back

Hello Everyone,

First of all let me apologize for the lack of vehicle maintenance tips articles. I have been concentrating of book blogging and for no other reason, I have been neglecting the automotive section of my blog. For that I am sorry. I have also been on a short vacation and I have been reading and doing other things that have kept me busy.
I will have at least two articles dealing with winter automotive tips during this coming week and I am always here to answer questions. For now thank you for reading my blog and I hope that it has been educational, even though I have not been up to date.

The White Horse King: The Life of Alfred The Great

"The White Horse King" is a wonderfully scripted story of the most unlikely kink of England, Alfred The Great. This epic story takes place during the early times. That being prior to Alfreds' asention to the throne in A.D. 871. This story actually begins shortly after his birth and continues throughout his reign as King of England. Ironically, this is also the time in which the Norsemen, or Vikings as they are better known, were making inroads into England in their attempts to pillage and ransack the English coast and following the rivers into interior England. At the time of Alfreds' reign, England was not the unified nation it is today, but it was broken down into several provinces. Alfred was the king of Wessex, which was located in the south.
Benjamin Merkle, the author of this fine story has shown that he spared no expense in time while researching the life of Alfred The Great. Thank you so much, Mr. Merkle, for your attention to detail.
Alfred The Great was a firm and devout believer of and in God, and you can see and feel this belief, throughout the story. He also knew that God was the only way for his kingdom to survive. The Vikings on the other hand, were a paganistic people, with no use for God. They had rather depended on their own devices and worshiped molden images of wood, gold and silver. The Vikings had no use for anyone or anything except to conquer and control everything and everyone, in their path.
When you start to read "The White Horse King", you will not want to put the book down, but let me assure you, that you will want to make notes to conduct further research on your own, to learn more about these times and this man. What I found interesting, is that upon reading this story, I found that you never know where your life of situation is going to take you, and as long as you have God in your life, you should have no fear. God will provide.
As you continue on the journey of this book, you will be shown countless battles that Alfred fights and prior to and with each of those battles, he consults God through prayer for guidance. We should all take a lesson from Alfred and his life with God. We all could learn from Alfred and the picture he paints both prior to becoming king and throughout his reign. He truly rallies England in their fight for existence. I highly recommend this book to everyone.

Apocalypse Dawn

"Apocalypse Dawn", written by Mel Odom, is a great take off on the Left Behind Series. Odom takes another approach, whereas he follows a second set of characters in the form of a military family, "The Ganders", during the Tribulation. Goose is in Turkey during an unprovoked attack by Siria on Turkey. The millions of disappearances all over the world, leave all remaining with doubt and wonder, as to what really happened. This purely fictional accounting is a wonderful work of imagination and who knows, it may be just like the story says at the End Times.
For anyone reading this series, it may actually push the unsaved into coming to Christ and accepting Him as their Savior. I pray that it will help those to come to Christ.
As the story begins, Goose Gander as stated earlier is on the front lines of an undeclared war, while his wife and children are back in the states dealing with their own situations. Megan is a counselor dealing with a troubled young man, and her son Joey is dealing with his own feelings. Chris his younger brother is one of the missing. This is a must read Christian book. Thanks too Mel Odom.