The Skin Map by Stephen R. Lawhead

“The Skin Map” by Stephen R. Lawhead was an interesting and unusual read. An adventurous tale begins when Kit Livingston’s life is unexpectedly altered by the appearance of his great grandfather. This complex story follows the characters on a journey involving a multi-layered universe that is connected by secret pathways. The search is on to find and compile pieces of a map tattooed on one person’s skin that reveals the mysteries of these pathways. This is the first book I have read by this author, and I enjoyed it. The author presents a complex and mysterious story that kept me actively engaged for the entire book. At times I had to read sections twice to fully understand all that occurs, as the overall concept of the book was so foreign to me and unlike anything else I have personally read or known about. I found myself at times getting bogged down in trying to understand all the details but once I had the basic framework of the plot down I was able to let go and enjoy the twisting ride. In the end I was still left with several questions, and I look forward to reading the next book in this series. I recommend this book if you enjoy fiction books that are unique and full of adventure. I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.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 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Heart Mender by Andy Andrews

The Heart Mender: A Story of Second Chances by Andy Andrews was an experience. The author opens by answering some questions about the book. Namely, is the story true? The author explains that it is "for the most part." After reading the book, my first thought was the following: If my teachers had presented the history lessons in the way the information was presented in this book, I would know much more about history! I learned a lot about our countries history in relation to World War II. Though it was told in the context of a heart warming love story and tale of forgiveness, it was educational as well. The story begins with questions and a tragedy; travels through roads of suspense, adventure, love, and reconciliation; and ends where all true stories should. While I learned about history, I also learned about the power of faith and forgiveness in our lives. The characters in the book were real but inspiring. I would recommend this book to anyone who is a student of people and relationships. I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com http://BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Another Support for My Habit

I am excited to say that my friend Patricia found another company that provides readers with free copies of books in exchange for a review of the book. I have joined this group too and will review for them!

The Sacred Journey by Charles Foster

The Sacred Journey by Charles Foster is an in depth examination of pilgrimage. The author addresses the historical significance of pilgrimage in relation to several religions including Christianity. The primary focus is on its role in the life of today's Christian. Chapters cover why pilgrimage is an ancient practice and how it became important and an influential factor. Common fears, misconceptions, and criticisms of the practice are presented as well. I was both challenged and overwhelmed by the concepts in this book. The author asserts that many Christians downplay the significance of movement in Jesus' life. Paying attention to this movement can aid in greater understanding and participation in your life as well as a closer relationship to God. I have been exposed to metaphorical ideas of pilgrimage previously, but this book forced me to consider what role in my life an actual physical pilgrimage could play. I believe reading the other books in The Ancient Practices Series would better prepare the reader for the issues presented in this book as pilgrimage involves great faith and courage. Personally, I have been inspired to be more than a tourist in my life and to altar my perspective of my journey on earth. I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com http://BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

New Adventure

I recently learned about booksneeze.com from a friend. This is a website where you can obtain books for simply providing a review in a blog. So, to help support my reading habit I joined. I will soon add reviews of books which I have read.