The Reason Why I Read

I don't hold a great affinity to many material things. It is a luxury I was not afforded as a youth, and while the desire for things has visited, it has never been able to stick to me. Instead of a need for useless trinkets, shiny trophies and status symbols I fell in love with imaginary friends, faraway places and new discoveries. I love learning, reading and therefore I do have a certain love for books.

Many told me that reviewing other authors work would also promote my own. I have not found that to be the case, not on this website or on my previous site that at its peak received over 10k hits a month. What I did find was I have not lost but have in fact heighened my love for reading, being inspired and empowered by the written word. 

Faithful Folios is my productive mode of relaxation. It is my avenue for giving back to authors and sharing reviews from a different perspective. I consider it a great way to giveback, I hope as readers and authors you enjoy it.

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Hope Undaunted

Vertical Reach = 3
The reference to prayer, and God's presence in the lives of the characters is done well and in way that is not forced, overbearing or preachy.

Ministry Message =3
There were many sub messages which made it a bit hard to focus in on one as the main theme. The themes I identified best were forgiveness and ability through Christ.

Craft = 4
The imagery and description were more literary then contemporary which for me is a delight but can be overbearing if not executed well, in this instance Lessman executes it well. The romance is true to formula and the conflict though based in the early 20th century are timeless themes able to be applied to life today, there are several themes woven together nicely for an engaging plot.

Aesthetics = 4
I don't normally read historical fiction but this cover and the story line were so engaging and inviting and I had to check it out. Revell knocks it out of the park AGAIN!

Dollar$ and $ense = 3.5
Romance readers will enjoy the story and be able to cheer for the good guy from beginning to end. Katy will work her stubborn way into your heart and the message of the book will massage the recesses of your mind. A good read even for those who don't fancy historical fiction.

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Demon: A Memoir

Vertical Reach = 5

I was mesmerized from beginning to end with the reverence then disdain and longing expressed by Lucian. It was refreshing and amazing to consider the level of adoration and longing for God from the perspective of someone who will never be able to be with him again.

Ministry Message = 5
God the creator of all loves you beyond measure and enough to suffer death on a cross to fellowship uninterrupted with you.

Craft = 5

Lee offers a  compelling, evocative masterfully written story about a different perspective on faith, salvation and love. The

Aesthetics = 5
The cover is alluring and provocative. It evokes a feeling of mysteryand intrigue so powerful if nothing else you'll want to at least read the back cover. 

Dollar$ & $ense = 5

Very rarely do I read a book worthy of the 5 rating. As a Christian educator I could easily see using this novel as a read for training evangelism teams on how to convey the purity and magnitude of God's love and desire to fellowship with people.

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Choosing to See

Vertical Reach = 4

Honesty about the need to cry out, pray and worship is a refreshing change from some of the memoirs available. Mary Beth Chapman with the help of Ellen Vaughn articulates and expresses her love and dependency on a great merciful empowering God who loves her through her flaws.

Ministry Message = 4
Look beyond the pain of life's trials tribulation and CHOOSE TO SEE God's presence, grace and love in the trials and tribulations of life.

Craft = 4
Conversational style is done well and flows in an effortless way inviting and relating to the reader. The prose and stories give a novel like feel despite it's clear memoir roots.

Aesthetics = 4
The cover will beckon to the target market. The picture shows the love between the Chapmans and symbolizes the strength to see she draws from her relationship with her husband.

Dollar$ and $ense = 4

This is a poignant honest read that will raise a few eyebrows and test the theology and belief of some Christians regarding depression, hope, adoption, tragedy and pharmaceutical treatment. It is an enjoyable story and offers good spiritual nuggets.

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