Proverbs Prayers - John Mason

Half of this book is the book of Proverbs.  So when considering buying this book, realize that each day is first: a chapter from Proverbs, and then a "rewrite" of the chapter as a prayer by the author.  There's not necessarily anything wrong with this, but that's what the book consists of.

I do have a slight problem with the introduction.  He states "As you read each proverb and pray the corresponding prayer, you will be asking the Lord to cause every promise and principle from that chapter to come alive in your life."  It seems a little bit like prosperity theology: do x, and y will happen in your life.  That said, I don't think there's anything wrong with reading the proverbs and praying the prayer.  Just be aware that it is not a recipe for success.

I received this book from Revell Reads in exchange for an honest review.

Forgiven - Terri Roberts

This is the story of the mother of Charles Roberts, the man who took hostage and killed a number of Amish girls in 2006.  It is the fascinating account of a man's life, his mother's memories, and the way she tries to reconcile what happened and accept that reconciliation in her own life.

It is a raw, heart-rending story.  I appreciated Terri's honest evaluation of the way she raised her sons, as well as how open she was with their struggle to get through the aftermath of the situation.  Of course, the emphasis she wants to make (as evidenced by the title) is the gracious and quick forgiveness of the Amish involved in the case.  I appreciate the balance she has been able to reach, and the honesty with which she has told her story.

I received this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.