Reviewed by Joy Hannabass for Readers' Favorite

No one has a perfect marriage, but many people have happy marriage, and author Amanda Beth says that you can too. It is not easy, and Beth says it took many steps each day to bring their marriage to what it is today. In her new book "You Can Have a Happy Family", Amanda Beth shares the steps that worked with her marriage to her readers. Just as God has helped this author's family, He will help each and every family that is willing to follow Him.

In the seven chapters in this book: Love, Forgiveness, The Real Enemy, Money, What Men Need, What Women Need and What Children Need, you will find valuable tips, sound wisdom, and instructions on how husband, wife and children can live a happy life together. Yes there will be disappointments, disagreements, and many difficulties, but you will find how to deal with everything that comes your way with the help of God and His Word. As I read this book, I realized that every married couple can benefit from reading this book. Even if your marriage is a happy one, and your family is happy at this point in your life, there will come times when things may not be as they are now, and this book can help prepare you for those times. This would be great to use for family devotions. And you wouldn’t even have to follow straight through the book, you could skip around and use what works for your family for that day. I encourage you to pick up a copy for your family, or a family that you care about.

Reviewed by Anne Boling for Readers' Favorite

At the writing of the book "I Left My Prostate in San Francisco– Where Is Yours?: Coping with the Emotional, Relational, Sexual, and Spiritual Aspects of Prostate Cancer" by Rick Redner and Brenda Redner, the American Cancer Society reported that 241,740 men would be diagnosed with prostate cancer in the US. Yet men do not want to discuss prostate cancer. Courageously, Rick and Brenda Redner share their knowledge, experiences and feelings with readers in the hope that they can help someone else facing the same situation. On December 10, 2011, Rick Redner received a phone call from his Urologist with the results of his biopsy---positive. Rick had prostate cancer and it was considered moderately aggressive. He pictured tiny monster cells in his body chewing their way through his prostate. He was frightened; his mind was filled with questions and he was filling in his own answers without being informed. “I Left My Heart in San Francisco” takes the reader on a treacherous journey from the moment the Urologist found the lump. Too often doctors gloss over the side effects of treatments. Rick and Brenda share in an honest and open manner. This book demonstrates that prostate cancer affects the whole family, not just the patient and not just physically but emotionally and spiritually.

I had never received a book dealing with prostate cancer until last week, but then I received three books on the subject. They came in at a time when I needed them. My husband had just received the news that his PSA level was 9.5. We both knew what that could mean and naturally it frightened us both. I’d like to thank the Redners for writing this book.

The Redners write in a simple, easy to read manner. The information within these pages is invaluable. There is information concerning biopsies, surgery, leakage, erectile problems and diapers. They also discuss the depression a male faces after surgery. This book should be in every library and should be recommended by all urologists. This book is not just for men but for wives also. Again I thank the authors for their openness.

Reviewed by Anne Boling for Readers' Favorite

The young adults of today are searching for something; unfortunately, they have no idea what they are searching for or where to look for it. They turn to Islam, Wicca, Paganism, Buddhism, and Hinduism but somehow they avoid Christianity. At one time beliefs and faith were passed on from father to son but somewhere along the way that ended. In an effort to strengthen the numbers of the “church,” many denominations have turned to models or what I will label as gimmicks. The models have not been successful in the long term. What we Christians should be turning to is the Word of God. “We must restore the relevance of the church.” The heart of discipleship comes through relationships between individuals. This is clearly demonstrated in the relationship between Elijah and Elisha. Their relationship was like that of father and son although they were of no blood kin. Author Michael B. French recommends that Christians must become emulate the Elijah Elisha relationship by becoming spiritual fathers and spiritual sons. Young people today are searching for an Elijah. The role of a Spiritual Father is not an easy one. It means taking on a lot of responsibility. The role of Spiritual Son is the role of being chosen and being prepared.

French’s book is straight forward. It is obvious he has spent much time in prayer, research and thought. His plan is simple and easy to understand. It is not actually his plan but God’s. In a mere 131 pages he lays out a “model” that actually makes sense and he uses scripture to back up his theory. There is a lot of wisdom in this book.

Reviewed by Anne Boling for Readers' Favorite

"Finding Redemption in Everyday Life" by Lela Gillow Buchanan will bless many people. In the Introduction Buchanan speaks candidly about her doubts, her despair and her desire to stop hurting. She reminds me of one point of my life. Her words are descriptive of the point I have in mind: “temporary paralysis.” She reminds us that suffering is part of life; it is not a punishment from God, but it is “divine opportunities for inner growth.” What Ms Buchanan is describing is a journey of self-discovery that we must each take as individuals. The prize at the end of the journey is redemption and true joy. Joy is what keeps us calm in the midst of a storm; joy comes from within. Buchanan has taken the tragedies of life like 9/11/01 and searched for the redemption with in it. She has also taken the mundane parts of life and found that special place of joy from within. The chapter titled 'The Handle' demonstrates the joy from the mundane and how God cares about every aspect of our life and how no problem is too large or too small. It clearly demonstrates how much God loves her. Buchanan shares much about her life with her husband Cecil.

"Finding Redemption in Everyday Life" is a heartwarming book. Lela Gillow Buchanan is a talented author. Her essays are well-organized taking the reader through her journey to self awareness and a closer walk with the Lord. Women everywhere will find courage, encouragement and hope through her writings. Kudos to Ms Buchanan.

Reviewed by Lorraine Carey for Readers' Favorite

"Crushing the Devil" will open your eyes and astound you with things about the devil you never thought were possible! This novel hit home for me because it came at the right time in my life to open my eyes to the real power we have from Jesus - one that we had all along to defeat this ugly beast! You will see just how ugly he is and learn his evil tricks as he tries to destroy your life. This book is a true interactive program for life for born again Christians that includes scripture, examples, action points that recap each chapter and prayers. You are given real tools to regain your faith and abolish his presence immediately. Some shocking things were revealed here that I never had taken into account with the inner workings of the devil, as his intent is to take you down, whether it is a full blown possession or the simple fact that you are stagnant in your career and not going anywhere. No matter at what stage of your life you are and what you are ailing from, there is a way to conquer it by affirming your place as a child of God and you can extinguish the devil by using the prayers, and the steps outlined in this book. Words have such power, and they are provided right here along with mind blowing statements to affirm. A very strong statement is given at the end of the book, for all of us to ponder at a time when our world is in such a state. It is one of hope if you choose to follow the steps in the book.

Pedro Okoro has been granted Divine Intervention to be able to write this book for you! He is one who has done his homework on this subject and knows how to go into battle and is well-armed with the armor of God as he shares these great messages with an easy to follow format. He writes with such strong voice on this powerful subject. The book was organized with such balance and reflection. Everything seemed to flow together. Yes, I can honestly say every bit of information here had impacted me in a way that will be reshaping my life for the better. I have printed out the action points and prayers that I have immediately put into practice too.

Reviewed by Lori M for Readers' Favorite

Gabe Murfitt and his mother Gigi Devine Murfitt have provided us with a wonderfully inspirational book in “My Message is C.L.E.A.R.: Hope and Strength in the Face of Life’s Greatest Adversities.” C.L.E.A.R. is an acronym created by Gabe that explains his focus on how to live a successful life: Courage, Leadership, Endurance, Attitude, and Respect.

Gabe starts the book out explaining about his body, because when people see him for the first time, they are curious. Gabe was born with arms that are only three inches long and his legs are stuck in the position of being bent at the knees. Even though he realizes he is unique and different, he wants the reader to understand that he/she is different too – we’re all different, but we have more similarities than we do differences. It’s touching when Gabe describes that despite his physical appearance, he takes comfort in God’s word in scriptures such as Psalm 139:13-18, and Jeremiah 29:11 that talk about God’s plan for us, to give us a hope and a future. I love how Gabe and Gigi included photos of themselves and their family. Gabe has such a beautiful smile that lights up the room and shows he has a positive outlook on life. In fact, Gabe is so positive that he started speaking at schools as part of a nonprofit group called Positive Programs when he was in the 7th grade.

If this were a movie, it would be promoted as “The Feel Good Movie of the Year,” and this book is in fact just that. It’ll lift you up and brighten your day.

Reviewed by Joy Hannabass for Readers' Favorite

In her book “Underneath the Scars” the author tells her story living with Amniotic Band Syndrome (ABS). She shares her feelings, trials and tribulations, accomplishments and failures, fears and courage, and disappointments and hope. Candida prayed for healing, and God answered her prayer, just not in the way she expected. He didn’t take away the scars, but He gave her so much more. And this is why she wrote this book. The book explains to the world what God has done, and is still doing in her life.

The entire book is awesome, but one chapter stood out to me more. In the chapter about 'Stares and Smiles' Candida talks about people staring at her, feeling sorry for her, and I love her reaction. She says “I respond by saying something like this, “Actually I’m thankful to be alive! I could have died, but yet I’m alive to love and be loved. These scars remind me daily that I am a survivor.” Candida Sullivan can say this because she doesn’t look at herself as being disabled and not worthy of anything. She realizes her life is a gift from God, and she writes this book to show the world that her scars are not any punishment for her, but to exemplify God’s love and mercy for her life. As you follow Candida’s journey though this book, you will experience the many feelings and emotions she goes through. She will have you crying and then laughing, feeling her disappointments and also her hopes and healing through Jesus Christ. You will be amazed at what God is doing in this young lady’s life. And if you struggle with health issues, or any other issues, you will find hope in this wonderful book.

I can’t say enough to recommend this book for you. You will fall in love with this sweet young lady as you read about her life, and how she trusts the Lord and follows Him. This is a book extremely worth reading.

Reviewed by Rita Vetsch for Readers' Favorite

Launch Out Into The Deep is a spiritually touching book of devotions written by Author, Acacia Slaton Beumer. Beumer writes from her own life experience and has included inspirational essays, divine poems and quotes from the holy scripture in this book that truly touches the soul. Beumer's brother, Aaron Slaton, has delicately written the uplifting poems in this book with character and class. The cover of the book grabs the reader's attention. The girl with the ripped shirt looks as if she is tormented, but the hand of God reaching down is a powerful image. This makes the reader want to pick up the book to see what it is about. Each essay is short and to the point, and each relaying a lesson in life that we can all relate to. The plot is well thought out, each chapter flows nicely to the next and the wording is very easy to comprehend. The issues written about are common ones that affect the world today and she offer's her spiritual guidance to those who need it and will embrace it. Beumer explains that life is a constant battle of temptations whether it is money, drugs, crime, sex or even peer pressure. Those temptations feed on themselves and can drag the victim down to destruction. But Beumer is also there to remind us how great the power of God is and how having Faith can turn our lives around.

I loved how Acacia Slaton Beumer added so many elements into one book. Her words of wisdom, poems and quotes all blended together nicely to create a true masterpiece that is different from anything I have ever read before. We all choose our path in life and we need to be careful that we make the right choices and Beumer reiterates this message through and through. This book would be perfect for teens who think they know everything and what is right for them. They will be able to relate to the issues presented and will come away with a powerful lesson in faith and spiritual guidance. I felt very connected and inspired by reading this wonderful book that made me question my own relationship with God. Let's face it, the Bible is very hard to read, let alone to understand each message that God intends for us, but I found this book to have some of those answers written in simple terms that I could easily comprehend. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is seeking spiritual guidance, anyone who is searching for spiritual inspiration, or anyone who just loves beautifully written poetry. It has something for everyone, no matter what age you are, you will be certain to bring away the message of hope, forgiveness and peace in your life.

Reviewed by Anne Boling for Readers' Favorite

Like many of us, Carl Marshall had questions. He turned to the Bible for answers. Marshall is a self taught Biblical Scholar. Most Biblical Scholars attend school for many years and have several degrees, Marshall's authority comes from the Holy Spirit.

Many Christians believe their duty is fulfilled by showing up at church on Sunday mornings. Those same people wait for someone to guide them, to interpret scriptures for them and in general to tell them how to live. Like Marshall they could make their own discoveries by delving into scripture.

I was raised in a Christian home. However, a time came when I began to question the rituals of the denomination and interpretation of my pastor. I also began to study and discovered that most of the rituals were man made. I discovered that I was in love with the denomination, the church building (stained glass windows) and the people. I loved the Lord but perhaps I was beginning to love other things more. I had to ask myself if I had lost my first love. Much like Marshall so began my journey

Light of Innocence is Marshall's story. This book is well organized and well written. I found this text to be inspiring. He covers many topics including baptism, Christian living, the virgin birth and church rituals. I highly recommend this book.

Reviewed by Maureen Timerman for Readers' Favorite

Hortense Duarma Grimes is a unique woman. She was brought up on Proverbs 13:24: "Spare the rod, spoil the child." She came from a close-knit family. At an early age they were taught the gift of giving. Her father was a geodetic engineer and land surveyor. They lived in Liberia and shared a precious closeness. When her father returned home from work, she took delight in meeting him at the front door with hugs and kisses. Immediately one of the children would bring their father his slippers. They even removed his shoes and socks for him. They would do the same for their mother, even taking her handbag into the bedroom.

Hortense's childhood had much to do with her life's work. In her book She Shall Stand, Hortense shares her Christian witness. She devoted her life to serving the Lord by serving others. After a divine spiritual encounter with Christ, she formed the Do It For Christ Ministry; The International Outreach for Spiritual Motivation and Rehabilitation. She combined her passion for prayer and compassion for people. She describes herself as an ordinary person. Hortense is an encourager, a gifted Christian woman, with great zeal for serving him.

She Shall Stand is an inspiring message to all readers: NEVER GIVE UP! The book is well organized and written. I found this book inspiring. It was wonderful to watch as God molded this woman into a prayer warrior and a Christian servant. This is a truly remarkable book about a truly remarkable woman.

She tells of her life at her boarding school, Rick's Institute in Virginia, Liberia, which she attended from eighth grade until her high school graduation. She is an excellent student graduating second in her class. During the last year in Rick's, she develops a mysterious illness which makes her retention of learning very difficult. She originally had the desire to become a Thoracic Surgeon, but the mysterious illness puts a damper on her learning.

When she does come to the States, the people she is staying with want her to take a job. The one they picked for her was an attendant at an all night gas station doing the late shift. I loved the thoughts she shared about being killed after just finally arriving here and was glad when she decided not to take the job!

She shares how she is always talking to God, and she also tells what happens when she didn't listen. This is what I came away with from this book: Pray with all your heart! There is always another chance. So says God, and He has the last say.