HEALING ACROSS the VEIL by Margaret Grace

 I can tell you what I think of HEALING ACROSS THE VEIL by Margaret Grace in less than 5 words but I will add 5 more: I don’t like it and I do not recommend it. 

This is the second book I was asked to review in which the author declares that the dead helped write the book. Both authors claim “spirituality” and Ms. Grace mentions god (note I purposely used a lower case “g”). 

I area of specialty in writing and book reviews is biblically based literature. I usually warn writers that I am very critical when the Bible is invoked. Technically, this author did not cite Scripture or reference Jesus, she confessed to being ‘spiritual’. Note, she did reference Scripture but it was clear she has no clue.

It took me almost a month to read this 59 page book because my faith would not allow me to comprehend the darkness found throughout the pages.  I finally asked my heavenly father why. Why could I not get into this book? His answer: 

1 Corinthians 14:33

For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.

Her words, the sequence of the chapters, the explanations for her experiences fell short of clarity. It may have made sense to her but despite the topic of discussion being important- being molested as a child- the presentation of the information fell short. 

The facilitator of her healing was her ability to speak to the dead not the Holy Spirit. I remember decades ago accompanying my sister to a psychic. My sister was able to speak to a deceased relative but when it became my turn there was nothing. Demonic spirits cannot talk to God’s children, at that time my sister did not have a personal relationship with God through Jesus.  As a member of the Unity Church the author was able to speak to a demonic spirit posing as her father. 

I had to Google ‘Unity Church’ to be sure my understanding of its’ doctrine was accurate.  To say it is a Christ centered church would be a lie, just like the title of this book.

The book is not biblically based. It is found on ‘spirtuality’ via a generic faith system that has nothing to do with Creator God. If Amazon allows me to post this review it will receive a one star only because I cannot give it a thumbs down. THERE ARE OTHER BOOKS AVAILABLE FOR THOSE WHO HAVE EXPERIENCED ABUSE GET THEM.   Written by Marsha L Floyd

 

LIFE APPLICATION STUDY BIBLE - 3rd edition published by Zondervan

The first Bible I received was a Life Application Bible, it helped me read and understand what I was reading and prepared me for reading the King James Bible.  Thirty-five years later I still have that Bile, though it is held together with packaging tape. That Life Application Bible is the "Living Bible Translation" I was excited to have the opportunity to review the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION - LIFE APPLICATION STUDY BIBLE.
I have had this Bible for a few weeks now and have been using it for my personal Bible study, I forgot that I had a job to do- tell people what I think.
I am a strong supporter of people doing more than just reading a Bible in one year, we need to study with the intent of understanding what is written and applying the word to our lives. The New International LIFE APPLICATION STUDY BIBLE helps the ready do just that- read with understanding and apply it to one's life.  The commentary for Job 14:22: "They feel but the pain of their own bodies and morn only for themselves",  is a great example of biblical application.

 "Job's profound speech in this chapter illustrates a great truth; knowing the right set of doctrines is not enough. To know what to believe is not all that is required to please God.  Truth untested by life's experiences may become static and stagnant....."

What else is in THE NIV LIFE APPLICATION STUDY BIBLE?

• There are concept segments that also enhance Bible reading. For example:  A list of people who had to wait on the Lord is found on page 804 of my hard back copy entitled - "Bible Waiters".
• Personality Profiles are helpful in understanding certain behaviors. It adds a humanness to the reading when you are aware of not only strengths but the weaknesses of an individual.
• In addition to there are: book introductions,  an outline of each book, cross references for significant verses, charts, diagrams and timelines.  These are important tools for studying.

Although, I often read the King James Bible, particularly when I am checking for the original terms- Greek or Hebrew- I have no problem with reading the New International version of the Bible.  THE NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION LIFE APPLICATION STUDY BIBLE is an excellent resource for those who want to grow in biblical knowledge and understanding.

I have the brown soft leather copy. It is a beautiful looking Bible with readable prin, it has one ribbon for marking pages. The words of Yeshua are in red. The pages are that vintage thin sheeting with gold edges which gives it a wonderful elegance, great for gift giving  I will not be giving this one away!

written by Marsha L F Randolph

The above is my honest review of a book that I received  for free as a member of the Bible Gateway Blogger Grid. #BibleGatewayPartner

MURDER AT THE FLAMINGO by Rachel McMillan

Appreciate the process! I began reading MURDER AT THE FLAMINGO by Rachel McMillan poolside. This book was to be my summer read and it did not disappoint. The problem was the number of interruptions I had as every time I got to a good spot.
MURDER AT THE FLAMINGO is more than a murder mystery it is a classic movie in print. I was a participant in the 1937 based drama. I met each character: the anxious Hamish, the need to find herself Reggie and the various personalities surrounding the event.
What makes a novel a great book is the stories surrounding the story. In the beginning the reader is introduced to two individuals who are struggling with the preconceived ideas of parents. Unable to cope they escape to a world unfamiliar.
As you read this book, uninterrupted I hope, you find yourself going deeper and deeper into the world of 1937 night life in Boston. By the time you reach the halfway point you will be totally sucked in and no one will be able to interrupt you.
MURDER AT THE FLAMINGO is the type of book I like; filled with personality, intrigue and the lack of modern dramatic hyperbole. Far to many books today have lots of sexual descriptions and violence that the imagination becomes unnecessary; they are quick reads, mindless dribble not so with this book. It’s a good book, get it!  Written by Marsha L F Randolph

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers 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.

KJV MINISTER'S BIBLE published by Thomas Nelson

If you are looking for a gift for someone you know who is entering the field of pastoral services, Thomas Nelson has published a KJV MINISTER’S BIBLE that is perfect. The box that this particular soft leather feel Bible is in service as a great holder for such a wealth of information.

I remember years ago someone asking me to perform the wedding ceremony between her and her fiance, I refused because I knew they were not ready for a marriage. I was not equipped at the time to facilitate premarital counseling. One of the many helps this book includes is an outline for six pre-marriage counseling classes.

The KJV MINISTER’S BIBLE is first and foremost the King James Bible. Included between the two Covenants are what I would call ministerial cheat sheets: Resources for the Minister. The resource categories include:  Weddings, Funerals, Dedications, Baptism and the Lord’s Supper, Worship, and Pastoral Care. The section on weddings includes pre-marital counseling as I mentioned but vows as well. Pastoral Care includes: a Home Visitation Checklist, recommended Bible verses to read depending on the situation and of course a Prayer of Salvation.

The resource found within the Old and New Covenant is actually the Nelson’s Minister Manual. Whereas, a minister may own a Bible and the manual THE KJV MINISTER’S BIBLE is both which makes it worth the purchase and a great gift.   

By the way, the couple that wanted me to marry them: were divorced after 3 months.
                             written by Marsha L F Randolph

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers 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 VINES EXPOSITORY BIBLE - NKJV published by Thomas Nelson

Gone are the days in which a person simple goes to a bookstore and grabs a King James or New King James version of the Bible. Once upon a time the only options a person had was the type of cover a Bible had. Today, the accompanying supplements to a Bible can make a person grab the cheapest Bible off the shelf and move on BUT DON’T DO IT!

Thomas Nelson publishing has once again present an option to those who want to read Scripture with understanding in the form of THE VINES EXPOSITORY BIBLE. Hmmm, that sounds like a pretty serious compilation of information, perhaps it is to much for the novice reader; it is not.

Expository: to bring clarity by presenting information in a more detailed way (my defintion).

The VINES EXPOSITORY BIBLE General Editor Jerry Vines, Pastor First Baptist Church Jacksonville FL, Retired, is a New King James version of the Bible that contains various Bible study helps. As listed on the back of the jacket the study helps include: 205 Presenting Messages, 148 Living the Message, 237 Applying the Message, 311 Discerning the Meaning, introductions to each book, a topical index and a concordance; and of course there are maps. I personally appreciate Bible application thus reading “An Anguished Cry” found in Lamentations (APPLYING THE MESSAGE| Lam. 1:12) was not only thought provoking but made the book all the more relevant to today. To discuss the sections entitled PRESENTING THE MESSAGE would make this review longer than it already is however I must say- if you are a Church Leader of any level you will definitely appreciate this discussion.

I firmly believe it is very important that people own a tangible copy of the Bible, for those who really want to know what ‘thus sayeth the Lord’ this is a Bible worth purchasing. -written by Marsha L F Randolph

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers 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 BIBLE CRASH COURSE FOR THE SUNDAY SCHOOL DROPOUT by Robyn Downey

You may not be able to explain it in 500 words or less but THE BIBLE CRASH COURSE FOR THE SUNDAY SCHOOL DROPOUT  does explain Genesis to Revelations very well in 84 pages (according to my ebook copy).

More than a “crash course” this is very easy to read understandable review of the Bible from Genesis to Revelations. Without getting the reader bogged down in detail the author, Robyn Downey, explains what is in the sixty-six books we know as the Bible.

One pieces of information presented, I wish someone had told me the first time I read the Bible, was: the Bible is not written in chronological order. Knowing how confusing it was for me, I think it is important to know. I also thought it was good that there was a short answer as to why certain people, such as Rahab, were mentioned.

What makes this book good for small groups is the discussion questions provided at the end of each chapter.

I know the title of this book is; THE BIBLE CRASH COURSE FOR THE SUNDAY SCHOOL DROPOUT but I would suggest that this is a great book to read BEFORE you read your Bible from Genesis to Revaluations whether you are a Sunday school drop out or not. But for the first time a person is going to read the Bible from Genesis to Revelation I would say this is a must get book. As the author said:  “Once you’ve mastered this, you’ll be able to read, study, and discuss the Bible on your own with more confidence.” Absolutely! This book really does help make the Bible make sense.   —written by Marsha L F Randolph

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.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 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

KJV THINLINE BIBLE, LARGE PRINT CLOTH OVERBOARD

Thomas Nelson has just released The King James Version Bible. “Oh!” You might be saying. “They always put out King James Bible, I have one.” But what you do not have is a: KJV THINLINE BIBLE,  Large Print Cloth Cover board in Black/ Gray Red letter edition. And if you like taking your Bible with you to church, or when you visit then you want this. This edition also comes in a green cloth cover, which looks cute but I like this one.

I can tell you that it really is cloth! I got the black part dirty and had to clean it with a damp cloth.

This King James Bible has a classic look to it. I like the weight and its’ clean, nothing fancy, cover. When you open the book the first page is the standard presentation page: to, from etcetera. As you open it up to the books of the Bible you can actually see the words, the font is great. No, I cannot read it without my glasses but I can hold the Book at a reasonable distance and still see the words. What I really appreciate is the ability to actually read the maps! 

I don’t recall other large print Bibles having maps in which you could read all of the places. (Again, no squinty eyes.)

An important note at the back of the book: “The Bible was set in the Thomas Nelson KJV Font, a typeface commissioned by Thomas Nelson Publishers and designed in Aarhus by Klaus Krogh and Heidi Rand Sorensons of 2K/DENMARK.”  Yes, this is a unique font for a very special book and I for one am glad.

This is a very readable King James Version of the Bible that is not oversized.  xxx Marsha L F Randolph


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.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 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

NKJV PROPHECY STUDY BIBLE John Hagee General Editior

Generally speaking most people will purchase a standard Bible without a commentary or they will ignore the commentaries that are a part of the book. People who intentionally purchase study Bibles, Bibles with: comments, cross references, historical data and other advance information do so because of the additional information. The problem then becomes which of the many study Bibles available do you choose.

The NKJV PROPHECY STUDY BIBLE , John Hagee General Editor; is the newest edition of study Bibles in the Thomas Nelson publishing house collection. It’s relevance is made plain in the subtitle: “Understanding God’s Message In The Last Days.”

Every time I review a study Bible, particular my favorite translation the New King James, I  learn something new from the commentary and the supplemental information provided. The NKJV PROPHECY STUDY BIBLE addresses something I firmly believe: we are at the ending of times.

Once you get past the Forward written by John C. Hagee and the list of the Books of the Bible and before you reach Genesis you will come gains very valuable information that makes this book worth while. Important information which you would traditionally have to look for in the back of the book is conveniently in the front. I was particularly interested in the section on Events on the End Times” which includes a discussion on the rapture and the tribulation. So what is at the back of the book? The concordance and maps of course.

Throughout the Bible portion of the NKJV PROPHECY STUDY BILE are other helps including: “20 Questions About Bible Prophecy” and “Diamonds for Daily Living.” In terms of a study Bible I would say this one is more challenging for me personally because it contains more information that I am not familiar with, in other words it is not a cookie-cutter study Bible. I like it!

I recommend the NKJV PROPHECY STUDY BIBLE - Understanding God’s Message In The Last Days” I think everyone should read this one however if you have never read the Bible from Genesis to Revelation before you may not read this one in 12 months.

MY GOD AND MY ALL -The Life of Saint Francis of Assisi BY Elizabeth Goudge

“MY GOD AND MY ALL- The Life of Saint Francis of Assisi” by Elizabeth Goudge reads like a novel not like a traditional biography. That was my opinion after reading the first chapter of this book, it was not my first impression.

I chose to read and review this book because I had heard of Francis of Assissi but did not know anything about him. Unfortunately, for me, I began to have difficulties once I read “Other great men may alter the material aspect of life for millions, generations, but the saints make us for eternity.” This one sentence found on page 1 did not set well with my beliefs because I believe all Christians are “saints” (1 Corinthians 1:2, 2 Corinthians 1:1, and other verses). It is my understanding that the designation of “sainthood” to individuals is a Catholic doctrine of which I cannot accept therefore I began reading with a personal bias. In addition I firmly believe that each person can influence one person and this is what makes a difference.

I continued to have problems with this book because of the writing style of the author. She wrote as if she was an eyewitness in the life of Francis of Assissi who was born in 1182. The author, Elizabeth Goudge lived from 1900 to 1984 and was an award winning novelist. The details in which she writes which includes dialog assumes that the events presented happened exactly as stated. There is a bibliography sited at the end of the 310 page novel/ biography.

MY GOD AND MY ALL- The Life of Saint Francis of Assisi”  originally written in 1959, though well written, is not suitable as a research tool. Anyone who chooses to research a person with a reputation such as Francis of Assisi would do better reading the writings of any of the individuals listed in the Bibliography.

I would not recommend this book to any of my friends however it may be enjoyable for a person who simply seeks a superficial knowledge of a Catholic history.  

SEWING: THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO MASTERING SEWING... by Jessica Pickens

I am a sewer, not a great one but good enough. I don’t like most of the clothing styles available in the stores today: skirts are too short and tops are boo revealing. I chose to download this book with the very long title because I need to make my own clothing and I watn to be better at making them.
I think this book is almost perfect, it is just what a person needs except graphics. SEWING: THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO MASTERING SEWING FOR BEGINNERS IN 30 MINUTES OR LESS! By Jessica Pickens is a step by step manual for creating your own wardrobe starting with understanding the tools for sewing.
I was pleasantly surprised to discover instructions on how to create your own patterns for shirts and pants. To me this is the added bonus not the final Bonus Chapter: Knitting for Beginners.
Though this book is great for newbies, it is also beneficial to the casual / hobby sewer such as myself. I recommend it.

BELIEVE STUDENT EDITION Randy Frazee

Randy Freeze is the General Editor of a series of books that tell the story of Jesus from Genesis to Revelations using selections from the New International Version of the Bible. BELIEVE STUDENT EDITION is specifically written for young people (this copy is going to my 10 year old granddaughter) to develop a foundational knowledge of Christianity.
There are three sectional concepts: Think- Act- Be which are taught in each of the “Believe” Bible commentary / study guides. Each chapter that falls under the concept introduces a Bible truth which is age appropriate. For example: Chapter 13 “Act” discusses Bible study. In each chapter has: Key Question; Key Idea; Key Verse; Text which includes Bible verses from Old and New Testament; and concludes with What We Believe.
The order in which information is presented makes perfect sense and I am confident that anyone, young or old, reading this book will have a better understanding of what it means to be a Christian.This book can be read independently by either a novice or a person that has read the Bible before. It can also be used in church as part of the Bible Study curriculum.
I have reviewed the adult version of Believe- “BELIEVE LIVING THE STORY OF THE BIBLE TO BECOME LIKE JESUS”; The children’s version: “BELIEVE STORYBOOK”  and now this one ‘BELIEVE STUDENT EDITION, I like each. If you are not a fan of the NIV Bible you may not enjoy this book however the advantage of having anyone read BELIEVE STUDENT EDITION is to get him or her interested in reading the Bible.
I thoroughly enjoyed reviewing each of the BELIEVE books.  Marsha L Randolph

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.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 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

CHILDRENS' BOOK REVIEW: CHANNING O'BANNING AND THE TURQUOISE TRAIL by Angela Spady

At 55 years old it would be foolish of me to recommend a children’s book purely based on what I think thus I have commissioned my 7 year old grandson. My grandson and I began reading CHANNING O’BANNING AND THE TURQUOISE TRAIL by Angela Spady together. This is a chapter book and though my grandson enjoyed our time together and he showed a lot of interest in the book his attention decreased by chapter four. My ten year old granddaughter, on the other hand, seemed to find something to do in the room I was reading to her brother.  
CHANNING O’BANNING AND THE TURQUOISE TRAIL is a very enjoyable read appropriate for both girls and boys who are ready for chapter books. The author gradually introduces Native American history which adds to the value of the book.
The story line reads very well. The reader is introduced to friends digging in the school grounds and like a puzzle gradually develops chapter by chapter.
Of course my grandson wanted me to hear more. Of course my granddaughter kept finding reasons to be in the room as I read. The truth is I could not wait to read the next chapter, the book is good.
I recommend this book, though I am not versed in Native American history there is also 7 facts on Native Americans at the end of the book which adds even more value.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free. 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 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

CHILDREN'S BOOK REVIEW

When I review children’s books I usually read to or with one of my grandchildren but since I did not have anything else to do I decided to read THE SHIP SHAPE SHOP by Frank Rodgers alone. Sad as the thought may be I was looking forward to reading a whimsical story about some type of store but that is not what I got.

As I read words like “the family’s snooty next-door neighbor” (kindle location 9 12%) it gave me pause. Did I want my grandchildren thinking calling neighbors names was acceptable, no matter how unpleasant they might be. Then I read how As I read more this feud between the neighbors led to the shop being condemned and despite efforts to restore and repair the government still bulldozed the building. - Really? Are we teaching children about the bad government?

The “happy” ending is a new building replaced the old unfortunately, this is not a story I will be sharing with my grandchildren and I do not recommend anyone reading it to theirs.   The one good- great graphics.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free. 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 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”