Book Review: The Bronte Plot by Katherine Reay

Book Description:

Lucy Alling makes a living selling rare books, often taking suspicious liberties to reach her goals. When her unorthodox methods are discovered, Lucy’s secret ruins her relationship with her boss and her boyfriend, James—leaving Lucy in a heap of hurt and trouble. Something has to change; she has to change.

In a sudden turn of events, James’s wealthy grandmother, Helen, hires Lucy as a consultant for a London literary and antiques excursion. Lucy reluctantly agrees and soon discovers Helen holds secrets of her own. In fact, Helen understands Lucy’s predicament better than anyone else.

As the two travel across England, Lucy benefits from Helen’s wisdom as Helen confronts ghosts from her own past. Everything comes to a head at Haworth, home of the Brontë sisters, where Lucy is reminded of the sisters’ beloved heroines who, with tenacity and resolution, endured—even in the midst of impossible circumstances.

Now Lucy must face her past in order to move forward. And while it may hold mistakes and regrets, she will prevail—if only she can step into the life that’s been waiting for her all along.

My Review:
In January, I have a habit of reading a literary novel I can savor as I snuggle into my home during winter. This year I chose Katherine Reay's latest novel. Filled with quirky and interesting characters, I enjoyed following Lucy's story across continents. I particularly liked the journey to England and the literary references. Katherine Reay knows how to write an entertaining story. If you're a fan of British television, you'll enjoy The Bronte Plot. Even though the characters are American, their journey across the pond makes for a wonderful story of love, forgiveness, and self-awareness.

Just Be Held

Deuteronomy 31:8
The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.

Have you had someone who loves you give you a hug? A parent, grandparent, spouse, or friend? What comfort the warmth of a precious hug holds. Or how about the days when you are barely able to hold on? Discouragement whispers in your ear, stress knocks on the door, frustration drags you down. How about the times decisions weigh on your heart? What then?

Mark Hall the lead singer of Casting Crowns wrote the song, Just Be Held. At the time he didn't know why God gave him the powerful words about letting go and letting God hold him. A few years later he went through cancer and it hit him. He had to let go of the fear, the pain, the future and let God wrap his arms around him and just be held. In my big imagination, I sometimes picture myself crawling into my Father's lap. He wraps his arms around me and whispers in my ear, "Don't be afraid. I've got you, and I've got the situation." God walks before me. He knows my future and He will not leave me. I love and praise God for the hope he promises.  

Here is a link to Mark's story about Just Be Held.

Beauty in today 1/25/16

Beautiful sunrise!

Beauty in today 1/24/16

I love winter and walking in the woods in winter after a snow makes me happy. Tim and I stopped by the Withrow Nature Preserve after church.

He's My Strength

Isaiah 40:28-29
Do you not know?
Have you not heard?
The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.
He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.

Riding up 71, I noticed a weathered lighthouse statue. The once new white yard ornament had withstood storms, the sun beating down, wind, and snow. Yet it stood in the yard and still shined as a lighthouse should. I found beauty in the weathering.

As a wife, mom, grandma, and coworker I've been around awhile and feel weathered at times. Stress in life wears me down. But I have God who lifts me up. He increases my strength and I depend on him to give me energy to keep moving. I love that I have the power of the Creator who lifts me up. Praise God for his strength.

Beauty in Today 1/20/16

Snow-again!

Snow covered the ground this morning and continued to come down all day. I've always loved snow. It gives the world a clean crispness. No matter how I feel, if I step out into fresh snow and feel the flakes touch my face, joy flutters inside me. Sounds crazy, I know. But I just love snow. 

Our dogs do too. Olive decided to have a snack and eat the snow.

Pre-K Book Review: Snuggle Time Prayers by Glenys Nellist, illustrated by Cee Biscoe

Book Description:

Snuggle Time Prayers, written by Glenys Nellist and illustrated by Cee Biscoe, is a perfect bedtime collection of fifteen prayers. This padded cover board book will help children settle down at bedtime and remind them of their blessings as they draw closer to God.

My Review:
Glenys Nellist has written beautiful rhyming prayers for little ones. Parents will enjoy sharing these with their children. I love that there's a Bible verse that introduces each prayer. Children will love Cee Biscoe's lovely illustrations. The sweet animals are endearing. If you have a pre-schooler you'll want to buy this book. Snuggle Time Prayers is a precious avenue to share God's love.

I received this book in exchange for a fair review.