The Scent of Rain by Kristen Billerbeck

After being jilted at the altar, Daphne Sweeten leaves to start the life she was supposed to have with her new husband in Dayton. In the process, she manages to lose the one thing that could propel her to the life she wishes she could still have. However, the faith a man in her, the faith of her best friend, and the perfectly packaged events created in this story allow her to realize that perhaps all is not lost, and in the end she can live happily ever after still.

I admit, that was sarcasm, and it’s the result of being rather disappointed in this story by Ms. Billerbeck. She written stories with more depth to the characters, but this is not one of them. It seemed the ex-fiance, who never officially appears as part of the story line, had more depth illustrated for him than the main character’s new love interest (though the far-stretching descriptive metaphors given to him helped). There seemed to be a disjointed-ness between events, and outer characters were very one dimensional, and only used to help make everything work out for the main character. It was a light read, good for those who really don’t want to get too involved in a story, or who want to expand their knowledge about the perfumery field. I do think this had the potential for a great story, but that Ms. Billerbeck sent it to print long before it was truly ready.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

I Am A Follower by Leonard Sweet

Within the pages of “I Am A Follower” by Leonard Sweet, the reader is challenged in so many ways. He offers a very thought provoking re-definition of what our leaders should really be focused towards. He challenges Christ-followers to be exactly that, and as a result, will in turn create more Christ-followers. He shows that Christ is the only true leader; and in doing so, he outlines how we are to pattern our lives to be His followers, first. This book will challenge your walk, your mind, and if you are a leader, your leadership.

I found this book to be a challenge largely because it is very involved. This is not a light read. The truths presented are solid, well thought out, well written, and almost always, deep. The amount of sources quoted are numerable. Mr. Sweet is able to bring forth truths from the Apostle Paul, the early centuries, through the ages, and all the way through the modern era, directing the reader to look at youtube videos, tying them together in a way that is truly poetic. And yet, through that, he is able to bring out the most basic truths found in the Word. I often found myself laying the book down to chew on a thought presented, and allow his points to sink in. I recommend this to leaders, to pastors, and to anyone wanting to jump in and join the dance of following the one true leader, Christ. Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”