Courting Miss Amsel

Edythe Amsel arrives in Walnut Hill, Nebraska, after receiving her first teaching offer. Leaving behind a troubled past, Edythe is determined to focus on her students and move on. However, some of Miss Amsel's teaching methods and beliefs, especially those on the sufferage movement, do not sit well with many of the members of the community. And there is the issue of the feelings developing towards the guardian of two students. Despite her determination to focus on her teaching, Edythe finds her heart pulling her in another direction.

This story was your typical historic romance. I enjoyed the detail paid to the women's sufferage movement and to the then unique teaching methods used by the main character. That being said, I found the book to be quite predictable. If you are looking for a warm your heart romance, without many twists and turns, this is your book. However, if you are looking for something deeper, keep looking. All in all, an alright read, but nothing spectacular.

To comply with new regulations introduced by the Federal Trade Commission, I am required to mention that Bethany House Publishers provided me with a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes. This in no way influenced my review.

When the Hurt Runs Deep by Kay Arthur

Have you ever asked yourself why is this happening to me? What have I done to deserve this? How can God let this happen? Using stories of those that have hurt, Kay Arthur shares with us how to work thruogh these questions, looking to the only one who can heal, God. Through it all, Kay refers to God and his love for us. Although we may not understand, Kay shows us that God does and is here to carry us through the valleys.

I found this book to be biblically sound and full of helpful insights. Having experienced valleys of my own, I only wish this book had been available to me soon. This is not only a must read, but a must keep. I can see myselft rereading this treasure as I experience the valleys that are yet to come. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is experiencing their own valleys. It will help to see you through.

To comply with new regulations introduced by the Federal Trade Commission, I am required to mention that Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes. This in no way influenced my review.

Life Promises for Success by Jim Tressel

Life Promises for Success by Jim Tressel

Life promises for success is a short book made up of three sections; The Essence of success, The Elements of Success, and The Epitome of Success. In each section, New York Times best seller and Ohio State Buckeyes football coach Jim Tressel, breaks the subject down into more detailed readings. Each reading is no more than two pages long and addresses such themes as attitude, focus, integrity, and persistence. Included in each reading are several bible verses which he calls life promises.

I initially bought this book for my husband, thinking the sports angle would interest him. I was pleased when he continued to read after the first two pages. Then it was time for me to read so that I could write my review. What I found blew me out of the water. This book is not just for sports fans, but for everyone young and old, male and female. It is rare to find such a book. Each page is short, perfect for daily reading and meditation. That being said, I do not think it would make a great choice if you are looking for a book to sit down and read all at once.

Mr. Tressel also does a wonderful job of sharing his faith throughout the book. Although he does not directly address God in each commentary, there are also several bible verses on the second page that relate to the theme of the day. Along with this, Godly character traits are instilled in each reading, making it a great book for teenagers and young adults. I plan on reading this book regularly with my preteen son as another way to instill such values in him. Overall, this is a great book and I would recommend it for all readers.

To comply with new regulations introduced by the Federal Trade Commission, I must mention that Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book. It in no way influenced my review of the book.