What She Left for Me by Tracie Peterson

I give Tracie credit for mentioning in the front cover that What She Left For Me may not be appropriate for all readers and that moms should use discretion in the decision to let their teen daughters read this book.

Tracie knows how to write a wonderful story. I have read most of her books, and of those I haven't, I am constantly trying to find copies to read. What She Left For Me was well-written, but I don't believe I would recommend it to others. Tracie deals with some very difficult issues, including marital unfaithfulness and sexual abuse. I understand that some do not want to read "fluff," so this kind of reality might appeal to them. I also understand that issues such as divorce and abuse IS sadly prevalent in today's society and should not be "hush-hush" in our churches. I don't, however, feel that these types of subjects should be for "fun," fictionalized reading. Even though Tracie was careful in her descriptions, I just had an "icky" feeling after I finished parts of this book.

I believe Tracie's intent in dealing with some of these subjects was to open the eyes of some Christians. Many Christians are dealing with hurts and issues that we have no idea of. That Christians that have no experience in dealing with these subjects tend to still shun those that have. Opening our eyes to the shameful blaming of victims in these circumstances.

However, I, again, do not feel that a fictionalized story is the place to talk about serious sin issues. God gave us the perfect teaching tools in His Word and His local church. Too many churches are not teaching the WHOLE counsel of the Word of God (Acts 20:27). In God's Word we can find lessons on sin, compassion, healing, and comfort.

I still enjoy Tracie's books and will certainly read another. What She Left For Me, however, will not find a permanent home on my shelf.

352 pages by Bethany House.

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Tags: Tracie Peterson What She Left For Me Christian fiction Bethany House book reviews

Sophie's Heart by Lori Wick

Lori Wick weaves a tender story about a family's grief and a woman's journey to love in Sophie's Heart. Sophia has recently left Czechoslovakia and her beloved grandmother to make a new and better life in the United States. After several jobs make her realize that America is not all she imagined it to be, Sophie is given the opportunity to become the housekeeper for Alec, recently widowed, and his three children.

Although Sophie’s appearance into their lives is not all that welcome, Sophie’s quiet ways begin to help the children come to terms with the loss of their mother. And, somewhat predictably, Sophie also touches Alec’s sorrowful heart. Despite misunderstandings, each member is able to heal and come together as a new family.

Sophie’s Heart is, by far, my favorite book that Lori Wick has authored. The characters are sweet and realistic. Lori knows how to make a reader feel as if she knows the characters in real life. Even though I have read this book numerous times, I still laugh and cry in the same places! I have always been a little disappointed in the ending, however. I’ve almost wished for a sequel to see what happens to the family.

Overall, I highly recommend this book.

432 pages by Harvest House Publishers.




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Tags: Lori Wick Sophie's Heart Christian fiction Harvest House Publishers book reviews

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About A Cooking Bookworm

Well, the name A Cooking Bookworm pretty much says it all! ;-)

I am Stephanie, a SAHM who has had my nose in a book and a mixer in my hand for as long as I can recall!

I initially began blogging so that I'd have a central place to store and easily access my recipes. I then began a second blog, sharing with my family and friends the recent books I'd read.

Two blogs were too much for me to keep track of. I combined them and my readership and blogging opportunities grew.

As much as I love to read and cook, I am first and foremost a child of God. I am saved (John 1:12, "But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, [even] to them that believe on his name:" Romans 10:9, "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.") and strive to obey and follow Christ.

This means that I will only accept certain family-friendly products for review. I also almost exclusively review Christian books (historical fiction is my favorite genre), with the exception of an occasional classic or children's book.

I hope you will enjoy and subscribe to A Cooking Bookworm!

Have a question or concern? Would you like me to review your book or product? Email me!


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Disclosure Policy

MY DISCLOSURE POLICY:

A Cooking Bookworm is a personal, family friendly blog written and edited by me, Stephanie.

Books and products reviewed on A Cooking Bookworm are provided free of charge in exchange for an honest review, unless otherwise noted. Often, companies for which I provide a review ask for a link to their site in these posts, but no other compensation is given.

All of the content on A Cooking Bookworm is based on the honest opinions, findings, beliefs, and experiences of myself and/or family. The views and opinions expressed on this blog are purely my own. Any claim, statistic, quote, or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer, provider, or party in question.

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If you have further questions, please don't hesitate to contact me.

Contact A Cooking Bookworm

I absolutely LOVE to test and review products. Do you have a book or product you'd like me to review?

If you've already read all about me and want an honest review, then drop me an email, and I'll see what I can do!