An informative and engaging historical fiction novel!

"Forsaking All Others" is a Christian historical fiction book based on Camilla, a woman in the 1800s, who leaves her Mormon husband, children, and sister wife in obedience to her Christian convictions. This book is the second in The Sister Wife Series, though this is easily a stand alone book. Allison Pittman, the author, tastefully weaves historical information throughout the novel. The differences between mid-1800's Mormonism and Christianity are explored throughout the story.

I found myself eager to read the book and follow Camilla's emotional, spiritual, and physical journey! The Mormon church has always been somewhat of a mystery to me, so this book caught my eye. I appreciated learning about the Mormon church and their teachings in the mid-1800's. This book left me encouraged and inspired to follow Christ, no matter the cost. I look forward to more books in this series.

I would recommend this book to anyone that enjoys historical Christian fiction and/or wants to learn more about the early Mormon church. I received a complimentary copy of the book for review purposes from Tyndale House.

Book Review - Great Parents, Lousy Lovers: Discover How to Enjoy Life with Your Spouse While Raising Your Kids

Great Parents, Lousy Lovers by Dr. Gary Smalley & Ted Cunningham has a title that pretty much summarizes the book. The book centers on the importance of building a marriage that is strong, even after the kids leave home. I was a bit skeptical at first since I don't feel that my husband and I are "Lousy Lovers" (whether or not we're "Great Parents" is yet to be determined!). However, this book had a lot to offer us even as "pretty good" lovers.

The first part of the book talked a lot about why and how to avoid a child-centered home and family. The second part of the book discussed bringing your marriage & relationship to the next level in many areas. Real life examples and application tips were given throughout. At the end of each chapter, date night & discussion topic suggestions were given for homework. I found the book to be a light read (with occasional humor) with lots of helpful information, some of which I shared with my husband. This launched some meaningful conversation and changes in our relationship. I would recommend this book to anyone that is married with kids. The tendency when you have kids is to make it all about them, but we need to make sure we have a solid marriage relationship that will last through the empty nest phase of life.

I recieved a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes from Tyndale House.