Book Review: My Rising Up by Jennifer L. Dean

Jennifer L. Dean's My Rising Up is a novel that not only explores hardships that may occur in life, but also the overcoming power of God. As the story opens, the reader is immediately pulled into the life of Brendan Maxwell--a young man who encounters death from an early age. This sets the tone of a seemingly troubled journey that rocks his world into adulthood.

I found this novel an interesting and enjoyable read. Situations and circumstances in the book reminded me of what it was like to live a college life, but more importantly, how it should be done with God as the head in every area. As the story was drawing to a close, I found myself flipping the pages even faster to get to the end!

This story is definitely one where I can relate. I think it is very important that stories like this one are told because so many lose hope in the One who gives hope. It is apparent that this author has an intimate relationship with the Lord because it shows in her writing ... and I appreciate that above all else.

My Rising Up is a wonderfully crafted faith-based read that any age group would enjoy and can be purchased at various online retailers.

To read a recent interview with this author, visit Striaght Up! Newsletter. The author's website is located at http://www.jldeanauthor.com/.

Book Review: Song of Solomon by Kendra Norman-Bellamy

Commonly known as May-December relationships, age gaps between couples is a highly discussed topic. In Song of Solomon, we find out if that’s truly the issue of why Shaylynn Ford and Neil Taylor seem to struggle when it comes to embracing one another.

Song of Solomon delivers a message of love that goes beyond just the natural, but delves into the spiritual connection of soul mates. Love is not just a superficial thing and as these characters learn from their past hurts, they finally face their emotions head-on. What becomes of two people who clearly have an attraction to one another, but an invisible wall of fear keeps them living in the past?

Song of Solomon is very well written by a seasoned and loved author.

From the author’s website:

At age forty-five, Dr. Neil Taylor is single (again) and living a seemingly satisfied existence as a deacon of his church and the director of Kingdom Builder's Academy. But despite outward appearances, Neil harbors secret pains that have caused him to build a well-constructed wall of defense around his heart, and to silence a ministry with which God gifted him as a child.

Everything begins to change, however, when Shaylynn Ford, a bold and beautiful, yet blanched and broken young mother, strolls through the doors of his office at Kingdom Builder's Academy. The affect that Shaylynn has on Neil not only makes him yearn for another chance at true love, but her injured spirit somehow begins to bring melody back to Neil's soul for the first time in ages.

Shaylynn's definitely worth fighting for, but so many obstacles stand between them that Neil wonders if he's up for the challenge. His anointed voice has been accredited with healing sick bodies and saving lost souls, but can it perform a miracle the size of the one he'll need to win Shaylynn's affections? She is his God-appointed soul mate. Neil is certain of it. But how can he compete when her heart already belongs to another? And even with all the songs in the world, how can Neil remain righteous while trying to win over a woman who's already wearing a wedding ring?

This book is available online and in stores through various retailers. To learn more about Kendra Norman-Bellamy, please visit http://www.kendranormanbellamy.com/

Book Review: The Morning After by Kendra Norman-Bellamy & Hank Stewart

The second installment to Three Fifty-Seven AM of the God’s Timing Series, The Morning After unfolds the interesting lives of seven individuals. Entering the worlds of TK, Jennifer, Jerrod, Angel, Colin, Elaine, and Mason anyone could identify with them in one way or another. Whether you’ve experienced the death of a loved one, infidelity, health concerns, or communication problems this book touches on them all.

(Excerpt from Kendra Norman-Bellamy’s site: About the Book)

When Essie Mae Richardson, the pillar of her upscale community, died a year ago, life for the residents who befriended her took a drastic turn...for the worse. The morning before Essie's death, it was business as usual in the Braxton Park subdivision. The morning after her death, every thread that held the friends and neighbors together begins to unravel…

As I read this story, I enjoyed how each chapter flowed into the next so much that it seemed as if it were written by one individual rather than two. The vivid imagery painted a mental picture making it easy to feel the characters’ emotions and visualize their body language. I love movies and could easily see this one fleshed out in film putting me in the mind of the notable Women of Brewster’s Place.

I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading about God’s delivering power no matter what the circumstance…He is indeed able.

This book can be purchased online through various retailers or wherever books are sold.