A.D. The Bible Continues: The Revolution That Changed The World
by Dr. David Jeremiah
Pubisher: Tyndale Publishing
Pub. Date: April 14, 2015
ISBN: 978-1496407177
Pages: $16.99
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

To tie-in with the NBC's limited series A.D. The Bible Continues, the sequel to History Channel's 2013 miniseries, The Bible), Tyndale Publishing released two book this month: A.D. The Bible Continues: The Book Of Acts and A.D. The Bible Continues: The Revolution that Changed The World. Both books are written Dr. David Jeremiah, author of Agents of the Apocalypse.

While the A.D. The Bible Continues: The Book Of Acts told the stories of Christ's apostles & followers, The Revolution That Changed The World also follows the Book Of Acts, but it's retold here to give a more detailed look on what Christ's disciples went through following Jesus' death and resurrection three day later. Dr. David Jeremiah gives a history lesson on what life was like back then, by exploring the political and religious upheal that eventually lead to the rise of the early church.

There are selective Bible verses throughout the book along with quotes from theologians and scholars. Similar to A.D. The Bible Continues: The Book Of Acts, there are small biographical segments.

A.D. The Bible Continues: The Book of Acts 
by Dr. David Jeremiah
Publisher: Tyndale Publishing
Pub. Date: April 14, 2015
ASIN: 978-1496407184
Pages: 184
Buy Link: Amazon.com

Review:

Arriving in bookstores today is the religious book, A.D. The Bible Continues: The Book of Acts by Dr. David Jeremiah, which ties in with the NBC's event series, A.D. The Bible Continues (the sequel to History Channel's 2013 miniseries, The Bible), that airs on Sunday nights.

While the Bible is the #1 bestselling book in the world, not everyone has read it and some people have a hard time following it. The author of the Book of Acts was never referred to, though many experts is pretty sure that Luke, a companion apostle Paul, was the author; written around 61-64 A.D.

The NBC miniseries began with the crucifixion of Christ and his resurrection three days later, which inspired his disciples to spread the Word of God across the lands.This book rewrites the Book Of Acts into a story-style formula (taken from the The New Living Translation of the Holy Bible), so readers can have a better understanding of what life was like for the Jesus' apostles after his resurrection.

Throughout the book there are one-page biographies of the apostles and disciples, such as Peter, Luke, Mary Magdalene and many others; profiling their strengths and weaknesses. The book also features 8 pages of photos from the miniseries.

Strong Is The New Skinny
by Jennifer Cohen & Stacey Colino
Publisher: Harmony Books
Pub. Date: September 16, 2014
ISBN: 978-0804140515
Pages: 240
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

Wow! I can hardly believe that it is already April 1st today! I guess time flew by while I've been busy with life. I recall receiving the book Strong Is The New Skinny by Jennifer Cohen & Stacey Colino back in December, but it got shoved aside and I'm just now writing the review for it.

Yes, I'm well aware that there are a slew of fitness books on the market that all claim to help you lose weight. I tend to avoid these types of books, but since I'm in a fitness kick this year, I decided to give this book a try.

While this books is intended for woman, there is plenty of great fitness information and exercises that men (like me) can also benefit from. There is a great diet plan that focuses on the best food that will give you the correct amount of nutrients and protein. The book features over 100-pages of exercise routines with pictures and descriptions, which mixes in light-weight lifting, aerobics, yoga and Pilates.

The Berenstain Bears' Country Cookbook
by Mike Berenstain
Publisher: ZonderKidz
Pub. Date: February 10, 2015
ISBN: 978-0310747208
Pages: 96
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

I'm sure most adults recall reading at least one Berenstain Bear book during their lifetime. While many children's literature characters come and go, The Berenstain Bears has been entertaining young readers since 1962. Sadly, the original authors, Stan & Jan Berenstain, have both passed away, but their son, Mike, has taken over the franchise by writing and illustrating new installments.

Available now in bookstores is The Berenstain Bear' Country Cookbook, which features 40 cub-friendly cooking with an adult. The hardcover book is divided into four sections - Breakfast, Lunch, Main Dishes and Desserts & Snacks. Before each section is a short introduction from The Berenstain Bears.

Breakfast recipes includes: Bear-ry Delicious Scones, Bunny Biscuits, Bear-y God Oatmeal, Crepes with Berries, Tasty Toboggans, Fruit Salad, Monkey Bread, Sausage & Tater Tot Wraps, Scotch Eggs and Toast With Eggs & Cheese.

Lunch recipes includes: Banana & Peanut Butter Sandwiches, Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup, Crustless Tuna Sandwiches, Lettuce Wraps, Mini Pizzas, Spinach Salads, Shepherd's Pie, Sub Sandwich, Tomato & Bacon Quiche and Turkey Shaped Sandwiches.

A New Season
by Al & Lisa Robertson
with Beth Clark
Publisher: Howard Books
Pub. Date: January 6th, 2015
ISBN: 978-1476773209
Pages: 272
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

I believe by now almost every American has probably heard of the A&E reality series Duck Dynasty starring the Robertson family, especially when the family's patriarch, Phil Robertson, became the center of a media controversy after last year's interview in GQMagazine. Whether you're a fan of the series or not, the Robertson family has become a household name.

Arriving in bookstores on January 6th is A New Season by Al & Lisa Robertson, aka the eldest Robertson son and his wife of over 30 years. Al is also known as the beardless brother who was a Senior Pastor until rejoining the Duck Commander business in 2012. The book is co-written by author Beth Clark, who also co-wrote this year's Women of Duck Commander and Live Original.

A New Season chronicles Al (Alan) and Lisa (Gibson) from their early childhood to their courtship and their marriage. Just because they're Christians doesn't mean they don't have problems as their marriage encountered several demons over the years including deceit, infidelity, distrust and shame. While most couples in their situation would most likely get a divorce, they some how beat the odds and saved their marriage through their strong faith in the Lord.

Courtesy of Bestof Bridge Holiday Classics by The Best of Bridge 2014 © www.robertrose.ca Reprinted with publisher  permission.

Description: 

Now available for the first time, the definitive collection of holiday recipes from the ladies of Best of Bridge.

For two decades thousands of families have made Best of Bridge recipes part of their holiday celebrations. These fans and new ones will enjoy the tried and true tradition of Christmas Morning Wife Saver on Christmas morning, Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes accompanied by Beef Tenderloin with Peppercorn Sauce for a dinner with family or company, and Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Squares for their neighborhood cookie exchange.

These classic recipes come from Best of Bridge fan favorites as well as new recipes which are sure to become instant holiday classics. The best holiday-worthy roasts and other special entrees for celebrations are here, along with fabulous recipes for holiday brunches and lunches, buffets and pot lucks, as well as festive libations and holiday cookies and squares.

What makes this collection extra special are the two chapters devoted to Leftovers and Food Gifts. Fortunately those sumptuous holiday repasts usually have leftovers. This handy chapter includes incredible recipes for transforming those unused portions into another delicious meal. Nothing says "happy holidays" more than a gift of home-made-from-scratch food. From homemade toffee to seasoned nuts and preserves the Bridge ladies provide a huge cache of gift giving ideas.

Billy's Thoughts:

Courtesy of EasyEveryday Slow Cooker Recipes by Donna-Marie Pye, 2014 © www.robertrose.ca Reprinted with publisher permission.

Whether cooking for two or serving a crowd, this book makes easy work of creating delicious, soul-satisfying slow cooker meals.

In this gorgeous, full-color book with more than 80 photographs, there are 200 recipes to explore and experiment with, featuring the best of North American regional cuisine, as well as globally inspired dishes from cultures around the world.

Each recipe is created with convenience in mind with a good balance of those that require a few extra minutes of preparation versus others where all the ingredients can be added at once.

Most of the recipes serve from four to eight people and can be adapted to every slow cooker size. There are also many recipes that will suit any family from chapters such as Meals for Two and Big-Batch Dinners. With a bit of advance planning the inspiring recipes in Double-Duty Dinners will turn tonight's dinner into tomorrow's feast, simultaneously banishing that dreaded remark, "...That again?"


Billy's Thoughts:

Discover the complete story of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles for the first time–from their humble beginnings in black-and-white comics created in a home studio in Dover, New Hampshire, to their multimillion-dollar breakout success, and their position as four of the best-loved characters of all time.

Featuring interviews with every key figure in the Turtles’ evolution, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Ultimate Visual History presents the tale straight from the mouths of those who were there, including co-creators Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird, animation legend Fred Wolf, creature effects maestro Brian Henson, and even the man behind the “Ninja Rap,” Vanilla Ice.

 In visually stunning detail, this book explores each iteration of the Turtles from the past to the present, including the hit animation show from Nickelodeon and the Michael Bay–produced live-action movie from Paramount starring Megan Fox. Bringing together the rarest art and artifacts from three decades of TMNT comics, TV shows, and films, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Ultimate Visual History leaves no shell unturned!

Agents of the Apocalypse
by Dr. David Jeremiah
Publisher: Tyndale
Pub. Date: October 7, 2014
ISBN: 978-1414380490
Pages: 304
Buy Links: Amazon

Review:

For the last twenty-years, there has been a slew of  "apocalypse" or "end of times" fiction & non-fiction books being published. I have read a few of these books, including the Left Behind series. You don't have to be a believer to become interested in the book of Revelation, as I know a few non-believers that have read a few books on the "end of times."

Released last week to bookstores is Agents of the Apocalypse by Dr. David Jeremiah. It isn't his first book based on Revelation, but it is his first "end times" book that uses fictionalized stories "to drive the message of Revelation into the human heart." The author received assistance from Thomas Williams with the ten fictional stories - The Exile, The Martyrs, The 144,000, The Two Witnesses, The Dragon, The Beast from the Sea, The Beast from the Earth, The Victor, The King and The Judge. Each chapter is divided into two sections - the fictional story followed by "The Scripture Behind The Story."

With the use of fictional stories, the author is able to explain the main events that occurred in the Bible to believers and non-believers alike. This is also a great way to explain the meaning behind scriptures and tell the stories that contains the biblical prophecy.

Before Amen: The Power Of A Simple Prayer
by Max Lucado
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Pub. Date: September 30, 2014
ISBN: 978-0849948480
Pages: 192
Buy Link: http://ow.ly/BbwcL
Blog Tour: http://litfusegroup.com/author/mlucado

Review:

Arriving next week in bookstores is Before Amen: The Power Of A Simple Prayer by the best-selling author Max Lucado. Though I'm well aware of the author's non-fiction works, this is the first time that I have read one of his books. I have nothing against reading self-help-type books, but the ones with a Christian theme can sometimes feel too preachy and a little force. So I was a little skeptical about reviewing a book about praying. I signed up to review the title based on the author's name alone.

This is definitely the hardest review I have ever written on this blog, as it is difficult for me to sum up the book in words. Max Lucado tackles the struggles people go through when praying. Yes, praying should be easy to do, but with all the stresses in life (paying bills, looking for a better job, raising kids, keeping a marriage working, etc.), you might not have time to pray or at least you probably won't have time to give a thoughtful prayer.

In the times of struggles many people turn to the Lord to help them get out of a bad situation, but praying isn't that easy, as most people forget to invite the Lord into their lives. Once the Lord is there, he brings many gifts, including patience and joy. You don't need to give a lecture to the Lord on your problems, as a simple prayer can work wonders.

Here is a "quotable, repeatable, portable prayer" that Max Lucado mentions in the book:

The Stress Cure
by Linda Evans Shepherd
Publisher: Revell
Pub. Date: September 16, 2014
ISBN: 978-0800722838
Pages: 208
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

I think every adult has been stressed at least one time during their life. Whether it is about money, your job, your marriage, your kids or countless other things, the pressure can get to you. Stress can cause an increase in temperament, weight gain, headaches and sickness. There are many books written on the topic of stress, but very few of them will actually help a person cure their stress. Instead these other books will help them avoid the cause of the stress, which isn't very helpful at all because stress is everywere.

Arriving in bookstores last week is yet another book on the topic, titled The Stress Cure by Linda Evans Shepard, which uses a different approach - prayer. The author suggests never to ignore or avoid the cause of your stress, but instead to find peaceful ways to deal with your day-to-day problems. Most of our problems are not hopeless, so the author recommends seeking guidance from the Lord to get through the tough times.

Yes, this might be a Christian approach to curing stress, but it is a more simple and effective way than what is suggested in other books. Throughout the book, the author quotes from the Bible, as well as quotes by Max Lucado, Billy Graham, Charles Stanley and a few others.

125 Best Chocolate Chip Recipies: Quick, Easy, Fun Ideas
by Julie Hasson
Publisher: Robert Rose
Pub. Date: September 15, 2014
ISBN: 978-0778800729
Pages: 192
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:


As many of my readers already know, I do know my way around a kitchen; learning at an early age to cook my own meals and bake my own desserts, so naturally I was interested in reviewing 125 Best Chocolate Chip Recipes, which I received an advanced copy several weeks ago. The cookbook, or should I say baking book, features delicious recipes for bars, squares, cakes, pies, muffins, quick breads, puddings, hot and cold beverages and sauces, all of which uses chocolate chips!

The publisher, Robert Rose, has given me permission to share two tasty recipes.

What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days 
by Holley Gerth
Publisher: Revell
Pub. Date: September 2, 2014
ISBN: 978-0800722883
Pages: 256
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

Arriving in bookstores today from Revell, a Baker Publishing Group, is the 52 day devotional, titled What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days by Holley Gerth.

Everyone has had at least one hard day in their life; whether it is at school, work or at home, the Lord is always there to help guide you through it. As Jesus said, "live on bread alone, but on every word that comes with the mouth of God." (Matt 4:4). When times are tough we sometimes forget that we're not alone - "taste and see the that the Lord is good." (Ps. 34:8)

Yes, I'm well aware that the book is targeted for women readers, so you might be wondering why a male reader would want to review it. Well, first off, I have always enjoyed reading daily devotionals and I'm planning on giving my review copy to my mother for Christmas. Plus, I like the coffee cup that is featured on the cover.

Modern Nature-Inspired Quilts
by Bernadette Mayr
Publisher: Design Originals (Fox Chapel Publishing)
Pub. Date: July 1, 2014
ISBN: 978-1574218602
Pages: 128
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

I guess you can probably call me a polymath, as I have a wide variety of interests. Besides from reading books and writing short stories, I do like making crafts, which may sound a little odd coming from a man. My mother was a craftier, so naturally I picked up a few crafting hobbies. My favorite is cross stitching or what is known to others as needlepoint. By now you are probably wondering why I'm reviewing a quilt book and not a cross stitch book. Well, my mother is a quilter, as well as a few aunts and friends, so I'm well educated in the hobby. Though I have never actually sewn a quilt, I do have respect for the craft.

There are many quilts books by different authors published monthly, but the cover of Modern Nature-Inspired Quilts by Bernadette Mayr caught my eye. I quickly asked the publisher if I could the review the title and they kindly sent me complimentary copy to review.

There are twenty-five quilt project featured in the book and they are not your traditional patterns. The author, Bernadette Mayr, along with her sister Irmgard Stangl, uses a more contemporary approach; featuring geometric patterns, like free-form shapes and lines, but with an artistic flair. The patches in the patterns are irregular in size and shape, so you never have to worry about using a ruler to measure the correct size.

Book Description:

Knowing how to entertain for that special date or for a large crowd is the epitome of being a gentleman. There is no stronger way to impress someone than by showcasing your culinary skills. Bachelor Chef and culinary instructor David Harap has created a series of menus that any man can make his own. This book helps men create unforgettable meals for their guests without stress or needing years of cooking school. In addition to many exciting recipes for every occasion, that are tons of tips and secrets on how to become the ultimate host. Memorable meals made easy.

About the Author:

Culinary instructor David Harap has a passion for food and cooking since he was a child. Working in commercial kitchens and catering halls to help put himself through Cornell University, David built a solid knowledge base of culinary fundamentals. His cooking style is very much influenced by his global travels and blends international culinary techniques with local and seasonal products. David teaches a wide range of classes, including many on entertaining, at the Central Market Cooking School and hosts an underground supper club, Austin Bite Club. He is also a partner with Stanton Chase International, a leading global executive search firm.

Review:

The best recipes collected over the years by a 100 year old Jewish Grandmother who considers entertaining a competitive sport. Her recipes not only taste good, but they have to look good, too. Belle's recipes are practical and unusual, and her ingredients are everyday item found in every kitchen. Although the book is written by a Jewish grandmother, this is not a kosher or even strictly Jewish cookbook. There are Chinese, Italian, German, Danish, and other nationalities represented among the recipes. Another lure to the book are the interesting tales of where and how she found many of the recipes, and events where she has used them. Finally, there are ideas of recipes that can be combined to present and unusual visual effect, like her 7 layer Jello mold table centerpiece, or her combination salad mold appetizer. Belle is a kitchen artist as well as a great cook and baker.

Many of you probably don't know that I'm a decent cook. Though I learned a few things from mother, I'm mostly self-taught,which started when I became in charge of cooking dinners when my mother went back to work when I was a teenager (I believe it was in 1995). As an adult, I have continued to cook my own meals (though I do get takeout once in awhile) and I own a wide variety of cookbooks (Taste of Home, Rachel Ray, etc.). 

Description:

Don’t let stress ruin your health. Fight back with these all-natural juice remedies. You don’t have to suffer with the effects of stress and exhaustion. By simply adding more raw food to your diet, you increase your intake of essential nutrients and decrease the harmful effects of stress and adrenal fatigue on your body. With recipes and recommendations for healing teas, juices, and smoothies, this quick-reference guide helps you naturally repair, rejuvenate, and reclaim your health. You also get valuable tips on stopping stress and adrenal fatigue at the source, including: · The connection between chronic stress and adrenal fatigue · Practical ways to lower your stress levels · Nine common symptoms of adrenal fatigue · Seven steps you can take to combat stress eating, and more!

About the Author:

Cherie Calbom, MS, is the author of The Juice Lady’s Turbo Diet, The Juice Lady’s Living Foods Revolution, and Juicing for Life, which has nearly two million books in print in the United States. Known as “The Juice Lady” for her work with juicing and health, Cherie has taped HealthWatch for CNN and has appeared in Shape, First for Women, Women’s World, Men’s Journal, Vogue, Quick & Simple, Marie Claire, and Elle Canada. Cherie earned a master’s degree in nutrition from Bastyr University, where she now serves on the Board of Regents, and has practiced as a clinical nutritionist at St. Luke Medical Center in Bellevue, Washington.

Review:

There's nothing more delicious than a holiday.

Oh, is it ever true. Whether it's the anticipation of Christmastime or the ghoulish glee of Halloween, if I see a holiday on the horizon, I simply can't contain my excitement. There's just something about the traditions, the family togetherness, the resurfacing of childhood memories . . . the making of new ones. Holidays are wonderful, special, and fun . . . and they always make me happy.

And one more thing: They make me want to cook!

The Pioneer Woman Cooks: A Year of Holidays is an all-out celebration of the scrumptious, mouthwatering recipes that define our favorite occasions throughout the year. From luck-inducing Hoppin' John on New Year's Day, to a perfectly savory/sweet Glazed Easter Ham, to luscious Caramel Apples on Halloween, to a crowd-pleasing Thanksgiving feast with all the fixins, these pages are positively brimming with recipes guaranteed to make your holidays deliciously memorable . . . and memorably delicious!
Twelve different holidays are covered in delectable detail: From New Year's Day to New Year's Eve . . . and all my favorites in between. Host a party for the Big Game for your football-loving friends, make Mom a lovely Mother's Day breakfast-in-bed, invite your sweetie to a Valentine's Day romantic dinner for two . . . or ring in the New Year with a fabulous cocktail party. There's food, glorious food in this cookbook, and you won't run out of yummy things to make.

I hope you enjoy and devour every page!

Billy's Review: