Chosen, The Lost Diaries of Queen Esther

Chosen, The Lost Diaries of Queen Esther by Ginger Garrett is the first book in a series that she plans to write called," The Lost Loves of the Bible" This will include stories about Jezebel and Delilah. The author feels that their stories have been overlooked and need to be told. I mention this (upcoming?) series only because I was so impressed with the amount of historical background that this writer has included in her book of fiction. The author portrays the life of Esther from being a common peasant orphan girl through her life in the palace to the end when the soldiers are coming for her after King Xerxes' murder. To build her character-type, her religion and resourcefulness are skilfully intertwined throughout the story. As you enjoy this book, look for the number of unique ways that this author has used to include the meaning of "CHOSEN". Quite possibly I am biased because Queen Esther has always been my favourite Bible story, but this is also one of the best Christian fiction books I have read.

50 Harbour Street

50 Harbour Street by Debbie Macomber is one of a series of books in the Cedar Cove set. The story involves the"ups and downs" of the people in the little town of cedar Cove located in the state of Washington on the west coast. To keep our interest piqued a retired police detective keeps receiving threatening postcards in the mail. Also, shortly after Ben and Charlotte marry, Ben's grown-up son, "a master manipulator", appears on the scene. More manipulating is also being done behind the scenes to urge some of the local bachelors into marriages. With our warm summery weather, now is the time for some light-hearted fiction reading!

Here I Stand

John Shelby Spong's Book Of "Here I Stand" with the sub-heading of "My Struggle for a Christianity of Integrity, Love and Equality" is quite a lengthy autobiography of an Episcopalian bishop. He has become well-known for the controversy he has created over the past few decades about his "inclusive Christianity". He has fought many battles over such issues as race and sex problems within the realm of Christianity. Some of Bishop Spong's theological thoughts may have developed as a result of his painful childhood while growing up in the deep southern states. He has also shared his family life in the book with care and sensitivity as he was dealing with his first wife's strange mental problems for about 15 years. This story is easy to read and with the photos in the middle of the book the reader can visualize the family as well as others in his book. As you read this autobiography, you will realize how hard one can fight for what one believes.