Book Review: Another Terrific Peterson Novel

Bethany House Publishing provided a complimentary book in exchange for an honest review.
     I must say, I am a huge Tracie Peterson fan. Every single work of this author's draws me in immediately and The Miner's Lady is no exception. This novel, part of the Land of Shining Water series, is set in the late nineteenth century in a bustling Minnesota iron mining town. However, as the mining crowd can bring a rough set of people frequenting gambling saloons it is hard for women to find the marrying-type.
     The Panetta and Calarco families, Italian immigrants have been at odds with one another for years. Much to the surprise of both families, Isabella Panetta is smitten with Orlando Calarco. Their emerging love will either create a further divide or bring these feuding families to forgiveness. One heart after another seems to soften and two hearts in particular grow together. The question is can Dante Calarco let bygones be bygones and submit to his heart's longing for a Panetta girl, Chantel.
     Tracie Peterson's use of language is absolutely astonishing and vivid. As I flipped the pages I was no longer in 2013, but transported to the dusty mining town of Ely in 1890. The saloon doors could be heard swinging. The pungent smell of tobacco and whisky, mixed with dirt and grime was wafting about as one of the Panetta men pulled up a stool. The emergency signal rang out sending panic within me following Isabella down to the mine wondering if her beloved was the one in the midst of danger. Peterson has a knack to elaborate on the details creating scenes that are realistic and endearing. Rather than being an outsider looking in, I find myself walking with characters along their journey. My heart always becomes involved with those of her characters.
     The Miner's Lady also was well researched. The nuances of iron mining were mentioned that only bespeaks of intention and dedicated research. It is Peterson's ability to handle such an array of topics and time periods that enriches the reader's life. I know more about iron mining than I did before and have a greater appreciation for such back-breaking, dangerous work.
      I will say this book is predictable. Yet, it is entertaining. For me it is the historical background that really makes it a book to read. This story line is one of forgiveness and following one's heart. Peterson has certainly added another great book to her growing list of works with The Miner's Lady.

 

Book Review: Real Help for Real Emotions

Bethany House provided a complimentary copy of Take Charge of Your Emotions in exchange for an honest review.
     Author Dr. Linda J. Solie has truly lent her years of experience in an easy to read book, Take Charge of Your Emotions: Seven Steps to Overcoming Depression, Anxiety and Anger. Even if you aren't one of many who deals with deep depression, crippling anxiety or enraged anger, all of us must deal with our emotions. Please don't let the "seven steps" scare you away, as these steps are very flexible and applicable to your personal situation.
    We have to two choices when faced with emotions. One, we can allow our emotions to drive us and run the show wreaking havoc in the choices we make. Or, two, we can take charge of them by realizing we can intervene with productive thoughts positively influencing our behavior. The key is to reframe our thoughts in sight of our worth in Christ. This process isn't about sugar-coating the scenario, but realistically accessing the situation. There are some things we can do to make a difference and other things we have to let go as we have no control over them. For instance, I can proactively pack moving boxes, but I cannot make escrow close quicker. I can control my reaction to a problem, but I cannot control the manner in which others will react.
     Take Charge of Your Emotions really is a book that can assist overcoming difficult emotions. When anger festers bitterness rots our bones. When anxiety attacks the panic can literally stop us in our tracks. When depression hovers darkness consumes our very being. Solie shows that retraining our minds is possible, though it will take a diligent effort. They say it takes 21 days to begin a new habit. Solis suggests writing down the seven steps for each of our problems for 30 days. If any of these emotions is plaguing you it would be well worth every moment.
     As some of my readers know I have dealt with anxiety and depression myself. I still do at times. I must applaud Solis for coming up with a plan that seems feasible for those that are tired of sitting in the toxic waste of damaging emotions. I  know it's hard to be in the pit. It will take initiative on your part to work your way into the light. The writing isn't meant to be fun. Yet, when you write out your rationale (or lack of ) in black and white, you will come to see there is a clearer way to think. In light of that, your behavior and life will begin to look different, better. I pray that you will give Take Charge of Your Emotions a chance to restore your joy. You'll wonder why you didn't start writing it out sooner.