Of Fire and Lions by Mesu Andrews

Those who know me best know that I love to read. I have read a lot of Biblical/Historical fiction books in my life, and Of Fire and Lions by Mesu Andrews is now one of my new favorites.

I must confess I have never heard of this author before, and I was a little skeptical whether or not I would enjoy yet another Biblical fiction book. Too often, this genre comes across as cheesy or not well studied. I will tell you that is not the case with this book.

The depth of this story and the historical accuracy assures the reader that Andrews has indeed studied the subject matter and studied well. To be able to share a fictional background of two of the most-told Bible stories and to make the fictional account very believable is a feat in itself. Though the book tops out over 380 pages, I read it in just three sittings. It was one of those books that I couldn't wait to finish reading.

Andrews masterful storytelling is reminiscent of the Lineage of Grace and Mark of the Lion series by Francine Rivers, but go much more in depth than the short novellas of Francine Rivers.

This is a book that I will keep on my shelf and read over and over again.

My only negative comment is that I didn't love how the author went forward and backward in time to tell the story. At times it was a little confusing.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Buy Of Fire and Lions on Amazon - releasing 3/5/2019. 

American Omens by Travis Thrasher

I am never one to pick up a futuristic fiction book. I just generally don't like them. However, I was surprised how much I enjoyed reading American Omens by Travis Thrasher. 

This novel is set in the year 2038...less than 20 years from the present in America where technology rules the world and Christians begin disappearing without a trace. Cheyenne, a computer programmer in Chicago who works for the largest technology firm, gets a message from her father who disappeared setting her out on a journey to not only find her father, but to discover truth about the company she works for and the Truth of Jesus Christ. 

A man called the Reckoner is working through a group of individuals who are all on the same journey toward Truth, to bring about awareness of truth faith in Christ, even though it has long been outlawed. 

Thrasher does an excellent job describing the dangers of technology and sharing too much information. I could easily see our world heading in that direction. However, what I appreciated most is how keenly he made me aware of how easy my life is and how easy it is to become lackadaisical in telling others about Christ. Not only did I read a great story, but I was also challenged to be a better Christian (and not in a cheesy way, as some books do). 

I received two complimentary copies of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Relational Reset by Dr. Laurel Shaler

Relational Reset: Unlearning the Habits that Hold You Back by Christian counselor Dr. Laurel Shaler is an excellent tool to help anyone who desires to make their relationships better...whether it be a relationship with family, friends, coworkers, or acquaintances.

Dr. Shaler's book has 12 chapters dealing with different problem areas in our relationship including insecurity, dealing with disappointments, forgetting fears, dispelling the past and more. Her conversational approach and real life examples make you feel like you are spending time with a friend who is taking time to pour truth into your life. (Of course, I must confess that Dr. Shaler is a real-life friend of mine).

Each chapter concludes with a few thought-provoking questions, which help dig deeper into the subject matter. I especially appreciate how Dr. Shaler ends each chapter with a prayer, helping solidify what we have just learned by committing it to the Lord in prayer.

I read this book over a few days, but I highly suggest maybe reading one chapter a day or even one chapter a week in order to spend time really establishing those habits.  I will definitely read this book again at a slower pace.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Though Dr. Shaler is a friend of mine, I recommend this book on its own merits for anyone looking to improve their relationships with others.

Relational Reset is available on Amazon (along with several other stores and distributors).