Sunday, January 26, 2014

Stepping Out in Faith: Former Catholics Tell Their Stories edited by Mark Gilbert



This book really spoke to me as a former Catholic.  I found myself relating to each person’s story in one way or another.  There were parts that could have come directly from me.  Each individual had a different story on what led them to move away from the Catholic Church, but it seemed that one of the common ideas was not having a personal relationship with God.  Omar Anheluk, in his story says about God “..I didn’t know him.  I knew of him, and I knew about him, but I didn’t know him personally.”  I experienced that myself and could completely understand that feeling.  Another of the authors, Angelo Porcu, says of the mass, “Although there were always Bible readings, I could never find the connection between the priest’s message and the passages that were read.”  I remember thinking those exact thoughts multiple times while attending mass – more often than not.

If you are a former Catholic, you will relate to these stories and may feel better about the decision to leave the church knowing that you are not alone.  If you are Catholic, you may find you relate to these stories and they will make you think.  I am not saying that you can’t have a personal relationship with God or understand his Word if you are Catholic, but I think it will take extra effort outside the church for that to happen.  Read the Bible yourself.  Don’t rely on the church for your salvation.  Jesus is the only way to salvation.  Being a Christian is what is important, that should come first before any denomination and, to me, that was not how the Catholic Church seemed to work.  And reading this book, I found I was not alone. 

*I received a free copy of this book from Cross Focused Reviews in exchange for writing a fair review.*

Friday, January 17, 2014

Hidden Falls: Ordinary Secrets - Episode 1 by Olivia Newport



I have to admit, I was skeptical that I would get hooked on just part of a story.  I was wrong, I am totally hooked and can’t wait for the next episode to be released.  The characters are interesting, the location is charming.  I’m reluctant to say that the secondary plot lines have peaked my interest only because at this point, I’m not sure they are all really secondary or may be part of what appears to be the major plot line – and that is definitely worth staying tuned in to see what happens next.  I don’t want to give away spoilers, but the last pivotal scene did not play out the way I thought it would.  I was expecting something, but got a slight twist to what I had imagined.  I’m glad I did, it was not, at least for me, predictable.  I will definitely be waiting for the next episode.

The first episode is free, so why don’t you check it out for yourself?  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00H4MTGV6/ref=oh_d__o01_details_o01__i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Here is the book description from Amazon:   "Thirty years of small-town secrets—now the key to the mystery is gone.  The small town of Hidden Falls is abuzz. Former students, friends, and loved ones are prepping for tonight's big event to honor Ted Quinn's many years of compassionate service.  Quinn is reluctant about a night in the spotlight--but is tenderly prodded by Sylvia, mayor of Hidden Falls and Quinn's dearest friend and confidante.

Ethan and Nicole won't let the shadows of their pasts stop them from returning to Hidden Falls--but only for Quinn--no matter how much it hurts.  Liam, a former student, and Jack, a town newcomer, are both hoping the night works toward their own gain--or, if they'll admit it, their chance for redemption.  Like Quinn, Dani and Lauren are mainstays in Hidden Falls. They keep close to home--and have secrets to keep close, too.

Now it's time. The guests are seated, introductions are made, the spotlight shines on center stage...and the unthinkable leaves the entire town scrambling for the truth."