Overextended..and loving most of it! by Lisa Harper

Lisa gives us a glimpse into her busy life and world filled with ups and downs with this book.  The reader will get to share in her joys and heartache with each page, and Lisa doesn't fail in bringing a few laughs along the way.  "Overextended" aims to encourage readers to cling to the hope of the cross amid the joys and sorrows this life will bring, and no matter how busy we may seem, we can learn to love this ride we are on called "life."

This is a great read for anybody, but especially those that are feeling overwhelmed in life and seem to have lost the joy in the day-to-day hustle and bustle.  Each chapter flows nicely and is easy to read - something very appealing for those with a hurried schedule.  The author does a nice job of incorporating scripture and Biblical teachings, but not being overtly "in your face" in that area.
As a full-time working mother, most days I find myself wanting to stare at the ceiling by bedtime.  However, this book left me looking forward to picking it up during the quiet of night.  Don't think you have time to read a book?  I challenge you to grab this one, read a chapter before bed, and you'll find yourself wanting to read more!

I received a complementary copy of this book through BookSneeze

Couples of the Bible by Robert & Bobbie Wolgemuth

   This neat book delves into the couples you will find hidden within the pages of your Bible.  Each chapter is divided into 5 sections : Their Story, Their Life and Times, Can You Imagine?, Their Legacy in Scripture, and Their Legacy of Prayer.  While it can be read by ANY individual, it's aim is for couples to read through it together and discuss each chapter to bring relationships closer together through Christ.

   I loved receiving a copy of this book as it is an excellent book to spark discussion between friends, neighbors and spouses!  Some of the couples in this book are well-known characters of the Bible, while others will make you search scripture to find out more about them and their story in the sacred words we hear about in Sunday school (and hopefully read on our own).  The chapters are easy to follow, easy to read and give the reader a lot to think about!  I would recommend this book to any individual but DEFINITELY recommend it to couples that are looking for a different study they can do together that will spark discussion, Bible searching, and open their head to new information.  Because of the way the chapters are written, this book is easily studied within the confines of a busy work week or family life.
   I received a complementary copy of this book through BookSneeze

Unexpected Love by Julie Zine Coleman

   This book is a beautifully written look into the heart of God through His conversations with women in the Bible.  Each of the nine chapters delve into the treatment and conversation Jesus had with different women and how these conversations can reveal the love and plan God has for women even in today's world.  While some of the conversations may seem plain and not too deep, the author takes it one step further by giving a context of historical times and significance and also how we can apply that to our own lives.

   As a person that likes to learn more about the history of things, this book definitely intrigued me as it opened my eyes to new perspectives on stories that I have read and heard many times before as a child and adult.  It inspired me to dig deeper in my reading!  The author made each conversation easy to follow and gave a comprehensive historical context that enlightens the reader to the importance of each word or action that Jesus took.  I do believe that the author revealed Biblical Truth and the notes given in the back of the book lead the reader to open the Word for themselves.  This could make for an interesting women's group book discussion.

(I received a complimentary copy of this book through the BookSneeze website)

Surfing For God by Michael John Cusick

   This book is honest, open and raw when it comes to dealing with pornography and the grips it has on men in our society today.   Michael Cusick hits the nail right on the head and doesn't mince words as he talks about his own struggles in this area and how God changed him.  He gets right down to business and tugs at heartstrings and the soul in laying this struggle before God and leaving the sin behind.

   This book should be read by every man and woman.  Ladies  - if your husband isn't struggling with this issue, statistics show that you know somebody who is (a brother, uncle, father, son, pastor or friend).  Men - if you struggle in this area, PLEASE read this book.  If you don't, read it anyways and get a better insight on what some of your peers are going through.  Pastors/counselors - keep this book on hand and give it to those you encounter that struggle with pornography.  This is a very easy read and yet captivating;  I didn't want to put this book down!!

(I received a complementary copy of this book through BookSneeze)