Traveling Mercies: Some Thoughts on Faith

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For most writers, the greatest challenge of spiritual writing is to keep it grounded in concrete language. The temptation is to wander off into the clouds of ethereal epiphanies, only to lose readers with woo-woo thinking and sacred-laced clichés. Thankfully, Anne Lamott (Operating Instructions, Crooked Little Heart) knows better. In this collection of essays, Lamott offers her trademark wit and irreverence in describing her reluctant journey into faith. Every epiphany is framed in plainspoken (and, yes, occasionally crassly spoken) real-life, honest-to-God experiences. For example, after having an abortion, Lamott felt the presence of Christ sitting in her bedroom:

This experience spooked me badly, but I thought it was just an apparition born of fear and self-loathing and booze and loss of blood. But then everywhere I went I had the feeling that a little cat was following me, wanting me to reach down and pick it up, wanting me to open the door and let it in. But I knew what would happen: you let a cat in one time, give it a little milk and then it stays forever.

Whether she's writing about airplane turbulence, bulimia, her "feta cheese thighs," or consulting God over how to parent her son, Lamott keeps her spirituality firmly planted in solid scenes and believable metaphors. As a result, this is a richly satisfying armchair-travel experience, highlighting the tender mercies of Lamott's life that nudged her into Christian faith. --Gail Hudson

Amazon.com Audiobook Review

Anne Lamott admits that she's "ever so slightly more anxious than the average hypochondriac." When faced with a small, irregular mole and a family history of skin cancer, however, she remembers her faith in God and enjoys some peace--despite behaving "a little more like Nathan Lane in The Birdcage than I would have hoped." Author Lamott reads these wonderfully detailed postcards from her meandering journey to faith. With sharp and bittersweet humor, she recounts a past full of bad relationships with men, with food, with drugs, with alcohol, and worst of all, with herself. She battles her demons thanks to the love of her friends and family and her "lurch of faith" to embrace religion, that "puzzling thing inside me that had begun to tug on my sleeve from time to time, trying to get my attention." Inspiring but not dogmatic, Traveling Mercies is a treasure. (Running time: 4 hours, 3 cassettes) --C.B. Delaney

Book Description

Anne Lamott claims the two best prayers she knows are: "Help me, help me, help me" and "Thank you, thank you, thank you." She has a friend whose morning prayer each day is "Whatever," and whose evening prayer is "Oh, well." Anne thinks of Jesus as "Casper the friendly savior" and describes God as "one crafty mother."

Despite--or because of--her irreverence, faith is a natural subject for Anne Lamott. Since Operating Instructions and Bird by Bird, her fans have been waiting for her to write the book that explained how she came to the big-hearted, grateful, generous faith that she so often alluded to in her two earlier nonfiction books. The people in Anne Lamott's real life are like beloved characters in a favorite series for her readers--her friend Pammy, her son, Sam, and the many funny and wise folks who attend her church are all familiar. And Traveling Mercies is a welcome return to those lives, as well as an introduction to new companions Lamott treats with the same candor, insight, and tenderness.

Lamott's faith isn't about easy answers, which is part of what endears her to believers as well as nonbelievers. Against all odds, she came to believe in God and then, even more miraculously, in herself. As she puts it, "My coming to faith did not start with a leap but rather a series of staggers." At once tough, personal, affectionate, wise, and very funny, Traveling Mercies tells in exuberant detail how Anne Lamott learned to shine the light of faith on the darkest part of ordinary life, exposing surprising pockets of meaning and hope.

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Traveling Mercies takes us on a journey through Anne Lamott's troubled past to illuminate her devout but quirky walk of faith: how, against all odds, she came to believe in God, and the myriad ways in which that faith sustains and guides her in everyday life. With an exuberant mix of passion and self-deprecating humor, Lamott explores whether certain behaviors will get her "a better seat in heaven, " perhaps "near the dessert table, " or whether her mistakes "make Jesus want to drink gin straight out of the cat disk" She writes about her family, about helping a friend through the devastating illness of her baby, about wanting but not having all the answers for her eight-year-old son.

Through the hard-won wisdom that forms the core of her beliefs, and with wit, insight, and lots of heart, she shows us how she creates a life balance of connectedness and liberation.

Customer Reviews:

Mercy on Us.......2007-09-19

This is one of my favorite books, and I've read it many times. The essay on Forgiveness is a classic. I'm not sure how Annie Lamott makes fundamentalist Christianity palatable, but she manages to convey a deep sense of faith and gratitude along with a quirky charming wit about it all -- especially about herself.

I (heart) Anne Lamott.......2007-08-25

I pretty much love any essay Anne Lamott writes, and I appreciate her foray into the spiritual side of life. She makes faith very real and very every day/accesible ... something we all need. Her humor and witty prose make the reading enjoyable as well.

A Great and Pleasant Read.......2007-08-09

From the start to the end, Anne Lamott's writing is greatly captivating and keeps her readers guessing as to what she's getting at, then leaves us with great philosophical insight, all the while keeping her humorous input she's so famous for.
Although she writes with freedom and confidence, some of her ideas about "faith" may not be what most people expect, but then again, these are her own thoughts about faith, what she's gone through and how she has come to be the person she is today.
She carries along a great novel, somewhat of an autobiography with her son Sam, and warmly welcomes any readers willing to read to the very end. Lots of great quotations to write down; a definite read for anyone.

Put me out of my misery.......2007-08-07

Having read previously published books by Anne LaMott, I admit I was unenthusiastic about reading this book group selection. Much of the material is rehashed from previous works but now autobiographically instead of as "fiction."

I found her self-depricating tone to be disingenuous and much of her self pity to stem from personal problems that were self-inflicted. (Did that last sentence mention "self?") The book is centered on her self involvement which often attempts to depict herself as being gritty, worldly, and street-experienced.

While she has had experience as an alcoholic and sex addict, she never seems to rise above it in any inspirational way. Authors such as Frank McCort of Angela's Ashes and Jeannette Walls of the Glass Castle were confronted with horrible childhoods but managed to survive with a spunk and spirit I admired. I couldn't figure out what was so bad in Anne LaMott's life that she had to complain about and/or turn to self abuse to cope. I grew up with my own share of dysfunction but chose to take a more optimistic outlook on life.

Although I agree with many of her political points of view, it did not sit well with me how she launched personal attacks on those who held opposing views. "The New Adventures of Old Christine" is able to satirize those annoying holier-than-thou mothers at the PTO in a much more humorous way and that's saying a lot for a TV situation comedy compared to this literary selection.

I forced myself to finish the last third of the book after our book group discussion because those chapters seemed to be the most poignant. Yes, that was the best part of the book. The chapters about being kind to her aging body and dealing with aging parents were the most honest and touching sections.

Even so, this is not a book I would recommend to someone looking for emotional uplift or spiritual insight.

TOP FIVE ON MY "BEST-LOVED BOOKS" LIST.......2007-07-03

I keep a list of best-loved books, which is coming in handy lately as I hit my forties and tend to rebuy books I've already read (sometimes getting through several chapters before I figure this out). If I put the list in order, Traveling Mercies would immediately make my top five. Lamott's autobiographical essays are hilarious and heartbreaking and wonderful, and make me wish she lived next door. I've read Traveling Mercies all the way through at least six times, and picked it up countless other times to enjoy one of the stand-alone chapters. I love the poetic compassion of some of the passages so much that I read them outloud. If you're a mom, you've got to read the chapter on forgiveness - Lamott's attempt to deal with her resentment of a perfect, day-planner writing, cupcake baking, field trip-chaperoning mom. We've all been there on some level. I keep going back to this book when I need to teach adult Sunday school, because it's such a beautiful exploration of Christian faith in a life that's messy and funny and difficult and real.

Blood Bound (Mercy Thompson Series, Book 2)

Average customer rating:

Mercy #2
New favorite series
Good story, wish romance and heroine were stronger
Bound Mercy
Thrilling Sequel to Moon Called

Blood Bound (Mercy Thompson Series, Book 2)
Patricia Briggs
Manufacturer: Ace
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0441014739

Book Description

Mechanic Mercy Thompson has friends in low places-and in dark ones. And now she owes one of them a favor. Since she can shapeshift at will, she agrees to act as some extra muscle when her vampire friend Stefan goes to deliver a message to another of his kind.

But this new vampire is hardly ordinary-and neither is the demon inside of him.

Customer Reviews:

Mercy #2.......2007-10-07

This is the second book for Mercy in her fight to just remain out of the surrounding monsters' radar. She is stuck between two werewolves that each want to claim her as his one and only. Adding to the mix is a customer from her garage that happens to be a vampire, a vampire that Mercy owes a big favor. I love being inside Mercy's head and the characters come off the pages.

New favorite series.......2007-10-06

I really am enjoying this series. Great characters, interesting plot and relationships that are intriguing without being overwhelming.

Love ya Mercy

P.S. The cover art is beautiful and the artist is having fun with Mercy's tattoos, but Mercy is not that provocative and she has only 3 small tattoos.

Good story, wish romance and heroine were stronger.......2007-10-06

Briggs has created an interesting, cohesive world and does action very well. But I think Mercy is lacking something as a heroine. She's a little too by-the-book and seems scared too much of the time. I know this makes her more realistic than heroines in other paranormal series, but I personally prefer a heroine who is more of a renegade, one who is larger than life. Also, Briggs can't write romance. If you're not looking for a romance, this is a great series, but if you want steamy love scenes - or even romantic tension - you won't find it here.

Bound Mercy.......2007-09-14

"This was a great third book. I liked the characters more and more as I got to know them. I normally HATE it when I buy two books, read them, and find out I will have to wait for a third, but this one was worth the wait. Looking forward to the next one too!"

Thrilling Sequel to Moon Called.......2007-08-29

At the end of Moon Called (first book in the series), Mercy Thompson the shapeshifting mechanic, owed the local vampires a favour, and in Blood Bound they want paying back. A visiting vampire is causing problems and Stefan, (Mercy's vampire friend) wants her help whilst he tries to sort it out.

In my opinion Blood Bound is a much more tightly written story than Moon Called. We already know about the relationships, pack-conflicts and back story, so here we are able to get stuck in to the meat of the story straight away. Although I do think it's possible to read Blood Bound as a standalone, it would be much better to read Moon Called first so you've got all this rich background information in your head.

The relationships within the werewolf pack continue to evolve and I think this is far and away my favourite part of the story. Each werewolf is such an individual character and to see how they are located within the hierarchy and how they struggle or accept that, gives the story a depth it might not otherwise have had. In Blood Bound this pack structure is held in direct comparison with the more clinical vampire society, which makes for fascinating reading.

If I had a concern at all, it would be as mentioned in another review. Mercy picks up another admirer and I think this has the potential to take away from the tension in her relationship with the two werewolves already vying for her attention.

Blood Bound is resolved very nicely, but there are enough plot threads left dangling to leave me desperately looking forward to the next book in the series - especially the new werewolf who only appears off-page here.

There will be a short story set in Mercy's world in the On the Prowl anthology released in August 2007.

Moon Called (Mercy Thompson Series, Book 1)

Average customer rating:

Great new series
Thank you....
Fun book to read
anti-feminist from a female author?
Simply Amazing

Moon Called (Mercy Thompson Series, Book 1)
Patricia Briggs
Manufacturer: Ace
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0441013813

Book Description

Mercy Thompson's life is not exactly normal. Her next-door neighbor is a werewolf. Her former boss is a gremlin. And she's fixing a VW bus for a vampire. But then, Mercy isn't exactly normal herself.

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Mercy Thompson's life is not exactly normal. Her next-door neighbor is a werewolf. Her former boss is a gremlin. And she's fixing a VW bus for a vampire. But then, Mercy isn't exactly normal herself.

Customer Reviews:

Great new series.......2007-10-07

This is the first Patricia Briggs book I have read - if you liked the first few Anita Blake novels (before they became trashy) you will LOVE this book. I can't wait to read more.

Thank you...........2007-10-06

to all the people who wrote positive reviews about this book prompting me to buy it. I'm not an avid reader of this genre, but as someone who once loved the Anita Blake series this series is just what the doctor ordered. I can now find relief for what was ailing my aching heart.

I love the world and the characters Patricia Briggs created. Mercy is great. I gave this book 4 stars because I thought at one point the author got a little wordy and I was getting confused about Mercy's reasoning about the kidnap. But I've already read Blood Bound and that is going to be a 5 start review. I can't wait for book 3!

Fun book to read.......2007-09-22

This book was recommeded to me by a friend and I have really enjoyed it. Mercy, the main character, has spunk and is easy to like. The book isn't too grim or overly gory either, just an entertaining escape if you like your fiction to involve everything from werewolves to vampires.

anti-feminist from a female author?.......2007-09-20

I thought this book was pretty damn horrible. Mercy is a likeable character, but this book constantly put down women in all ways possible. Sure, it was subtle, but the message was clear! There was not nearly enough plot to make up for anything. I (unfortunately) finished the book and felt both disgusting and disgusted immediately afterward. Just about the only part I enjoyed was the looking at the cover. DON'T JUDGE THIS BOOK BY ITS COVER! Ugh, I'm just glad I didn't pay to read it.

Simply Amazing.......2007-09-03

I absolutely loved Moon Called. The story is so engaging that I couldn't put it down, and was very glad I waited to read this after the 2nd book in the series came out. The story flowed beautifully and had an ending that was surprising and well written, which followed the rest of the book.

Mercy is such a wonderful character. She is strong yet vulnerable all at the same time, which makes for a character the reader can relate to. One thing I loved about Mercy is she is willing to step back and let other people help her out when things got too deep. I believe this shows a much stronger character than one who thinks they can take on the world (and amazingly does so), which you see constantly for this genre. The secondary characters are also very realistic and endearing. I absolutely love Adam and desperately hope Mercy ends up with this wonderfully written character.

Overall, I loved this book and really wish I waited until the 3rd book of this series was out before reading Moon Called, as I am desperate to continue reading about Mercy. Moon Called is a MUST read for any Paranormal fantasy reader.

Average customer rating:

Not the best
Mercy
Where was the surprise?
Have mercy on yourself and skip this book
Sorry, I Don't believe this was Jodi's Best

Mercy
Jodi Picoult
Manufacturer: Washington Square Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0743422449
Release Date: 2001-04-03

Book Description

Police chief of a small Massachusetts town, Cameron McDonald makes the toughest arrest of his life when his own cousin Jamie comes to him and confesses outright that he has killed his terminally ill wife out of mercy.

Now, a heated murder trial plunges the town into upheaval, and drives a wedge into a contented marriage: Cameron, aiding the prosecution in their case against Jamie, is suddenly at odds with his devoted wife, Allie -- seduced by the idea of a man so in love with his wife that he'd grant all her wishes, even her wish to end her life. And when an inexplicable attraction leads to a shocking betrayal, Allie faces the hardest questions of the heart: when does love cross the line of moral obligation? And what does it mean to truly love another?

Praised for her "personal, detail-rich style" (Glamour), Jodi Picoult infuses this page-turning novel with heart, warmth, and startling candor, taking readers on an unforgettable emotional journey.

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Praised for her "personal, detail-rich style" (Glamour), Jodi Picoult infuses this page-turning novel with heart, warmth, and startling candor, taking readers on an unforgettable emotional journey.

Customer Reviews:

Not the best.......2007-09-20

This is the third Picoult book I've read and I have to say I was disappointed. The book did have some good parts but overall it lacked substance. I wouldn't read it again and I advise readers to pick another book instead.

Mercy.......2007-09-16

Another Jodi Picoult story with a controversial subject, in this case, euthanasia. The book examines all aspects of the mercy killing of a wife with end stage metastatic cancer by her husband who can't stand to see her suffer anymore. When she asks him to end her life he does in the most gentle way he can think of because he loves her so much. From begining to end it was a page turner.

Where was the surprise?.......2007-09-11

I have read Plain Truth, My Sister's Keeper and am in the process of reading Keeping Faith. I loved the ending of the first two I finished and thought I would be ready for the surprise at the end of this one but it never happened. Definitely not impressed. Interesting story line until the end.

Have mercy on yourself and skip this book.......2007-08-17

Generally, I enjoy reading Picoult's books. Though the topics are often difficult, she writes in such a way that you wonder how you would react in the same situation. However, "Mercy" was an extreme disappointment. By midway, I could not have cared less about what happened to any of the characters. Cam and Mia are arrogant and selfish, Allie is too clueless to be believable and Jamie, the long suffering, tortured soul, is just too much.

I have a hard time believing it was written by the same person who wrote "My Sister's Keeper" and "19 Minutes".

Sorry, I Don't believe this was Jodi's Best .......2007-08-08

I believe this is my fourth book I've read by Jodi Picoult, and she is one of my favorite authors. My Sister's Keeper and Keeping Faith, are probably my favorites while with Mercy I didn't think that it was up to the standards Ms. Picoult normally puts forth in her novels. I'm sorry to say, but it's just my opinion. I was intrigued by the subject of the book, as I have been with all of her subject matter that she has written about. This book was supposed to focus on the question of mercy killing, and the scenario of would you kill someone that was very ill if they asked you to. However, a majority of the book was about Cam MacDonald, adultery, who is the sheriff of Wheelock, Mass.. His affair just seemed to ramble on and on as if the author was trying to justify it, but there was nothing that surface that I could see that really justified his eager romp. By mid point I was bored with the story, but plugged away, believing it was going to get better. The courtroom trial was a bit exciting, but for me the story never kept my interest. I admire Ms. Picoult writing skills, but I wasn't thrilled with Mercy. It's not a terrible book, just not a super read.

A novel that did not disappoint me was Gathering of Cans by Robert L. Saunders. This colorful evocation of Zoie Baker, the heroine in this Women's Fiction has some finely drawn characters. Zoie is a determine woman that feels right down to her bones that she can build a swimming pool by gathering aluminum cans. As she stumbles on unique cans, Mountain Dew, Nehi, etc, the author takes the reader on a glorious journey in the life of this astonishing character. This is a well-written and entertaining story that you don't want to miss. You won't be disappointed. Also, you Mystery lovers, check out his The Monopoly Factor. It's a real page turner that is full of meat. Bye.

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After all these years...
A Severe Mercy
We keep going back to this book
Beautiful, Haunting, Exquisite
A Severe Mercy by Sheldon Vanauken

Severe Mercy, A
Sheldon Vanauken
Manufacturer: HarperOne
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Accessories:

ASIN: 0060688246

Amazon.com

A Severe Mercy, by Sheldon Vanauken, is a heart-rending love story described by its author as "the spiritual autobiography of a love rather than of the lovers." Vanauken chronicles the birth of a powerful pagan love borne out of the relationship he shares with his wife, Davy, and describes the growth of their relationship and the dreams that they share. As a symbol of their love, they name their dream schooner the Grey Goose, "for the grey goose, if its mate is killed flies on alone and never takes another."

While studying at Oxford, Sheldon and Davy develop a friendship with C.S. Lewis, under whose influence and with much intellectual scrutiny they accept the Christian doctrine. As their devotion to God intensifies, Sheldon realizes that he is no longer Davy's primary love--God is. Within this discovery begins a brewing jealousy.

Shortly after, Davy acquires a fatal illness. After her death Sheldon embarks on an intense experience of grief, "to find the meaning of it, taste the whole of it ... to learn from sorrow whatever it had to teach." Through painstaking reveries, he comes to discover the meaning of "a mercy as severe as death, a severity as merciful as love." He learns that her death "had these results: It brought me as nothing else could do to know and end my jealously of God. It saved her faith from assault. ...And it saved our love from perishing."

Replete with 18 letters from C.S. Lewis, A Severe Mercy addresses some of the universal questions that surround faith--the existence of God and the reasons behind tragedy. --Jacque Holthusen

Book Description

Beloved, profoundly moving account of the author's marriage, the couple's search for faith and friendship with C. S. Lewis, and a spiritual strength that sustained Vanauken after his wife's untimely death.

Customer Reviews:

After all these years..........2007-07-13

In 1976, at a Christian writers conference, someone I admire recommended this book. He was trying to make his audience understand that writing in the genre of "inspirational" nonfiction needn't be trite or predictable or ordinary. "Christian writers should write well," he told us. Here here. I read the book on his recommendation--and an entire genre opened up for me. Though the book is slightly flawed, it is worth reading (if for no other reason than the letters by Lewis--gotta love him always) simply as an example of good writing. I've recently purchased the book again for friends for that very reason.

A Severe Mercy.......2007-01-16

A Severe Mercy by Sheldon Vanauken is one of those books I've always heard great things about and never read. It's of particular importance to a couple I know, which only served to deepen its mystique. I finally read it last week and it certainly met my expectations. I appreciated the integration of both the romantic and spiritual elements of the story, and enjoyed it far more than most autobiographies because the prose was better than most in that classification.

The beauty of the relationship remembered is breathtaking. Sometimes I wondered if everything really happened just that way, but we all reconstruct memories from time to time and even if it is partly fiction and partly fact, it's nothing but the truth, as Pierce Pettis so aptly sang. The conversion story is also interesting as it captures the classic pattern of the modern coming-to-faith. I think it will help people in the future to understand the classic evangelism of the past.

A quick but thoughtful read.

We keep going back to this book.......2006-09-27

At different points in our relationship we pull this book off the shelf and read it together out loud. When we first started reading the book we were just dating and it was an example of a relationship we wanted to have. Throughout our marriage it has been an inspiration and a challenge to us.

As a couple we recommend this book to anyone who is searching for a relationship that deepens with each day. It is incredible that the telling of one story could impact so many people - but that is a tribute to the commitment of Sheldon and Davie to each other. They were truely Generous Minds!

Beautiful, Haunting, Exquisite.......2006-04-10

This extraordinary memoir by Sheldon Vanauken about his relationship with Jean Davis is subtly addictive and exquisitely crafted. The story of their conversion from a self-described "paganism" to Anglican Christianity (due in no small part to the friendship and mentorship of C. S. Lewis) is gripping and heartbreaking.

Of particular note is that most conversion stories are emotionally based, but Mr. Vanauken, the recipient of a classical education, needed a reason-based approach as well. It was refreshing to read his account of how faith AND reason played a role in his conversion.

I wish it were possible to give this 10 stars, but five will have to do!

A Severe Mercy by Sheldon Vanauken.......2006-03-17

This book is outstanding! The authors' writing style is engaging and the story is poignant. Mr Vanauken takes us through a relationships' stages with grace and we follow his miraculous journey into the faith and into love and grief-so intricately intertwined! I would recommend this to anyone who is married or thinking of marriage or in a relationship that is thinking of marriage. But also, it is a statement on the path to faith in God for everyone-a good read for intellectuals.

Average customer rating:

A Pageturner
It's aight...
Theo Buchanan's story
I have to say, it WAS boring...
Could not put it down

Mercy
Julie Garwood
Manufacturer: Pocket
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0671034022

Amazon.com

Bestselling author Julie Garwood has a new calling--contemporary romantic suspense fiction. While longtime fans of Garwood hope she won't forsake the historical romance genre that has been so successful for her, this versatile author is coming into her own as a creator of amazingly complex and detailed suspense novels. In Mercy, Theo Buchanan, the brother of FBI agent Nick Buchanan from Heartbreaker, Garwood's first foray into suspense fiction, meets surgeon Dr. Michelle "Mike" Renard when he throws up on her designer dress at a New Orleans gala. Dr. Mike saves Theo's life with an emergency appendectomy, enabling him to return to Boston and his job as a federal prosecutor.

But Theo can't stop thinking about Mike and her little hometown on the bayou. After concluding an investigation and trial that brings down a powerful organized crime syndicate, Theo receives several death threats and his boss recommends he keep a low profile. What better place to go incognito than Bowen, Louisiana, where the catfish practically throw themselves at your fishing pole and where a certain pretty young doctor is opening her new practice? But when Theo arrives, he finds life in Bowen isn't quite as idyllic as he thought. Someone has ransacked Mike's new office and seems dead set on harming her. As Theo struggles to protect Mike, he uncovers a ring of upper-crust criminals willing to do anything, even murder, to keep their dirty little secret--all $40 million of it--from being discovered. What connection could they possibly have to Mike? And why does everyone under the age of 18 keep calling Theo "Coach"? Join perennial favorite Garwood on a journey into the quirky, close-knit communities of the Louisiana bayou and the journey a man and woman devoted to their careers undertake as they fall passionately in love. --Alison Trinkle

Book Description

#1 New York Times bestselling author Julie Garwood takes readers from New Orleans' exclusive Garden District to the backwoods of Louisiana's mysterious bayou country in an unforgettable novel of passion and suspense that cuts straight to the heart.

When esteemed Justice Department attorney Theo Buchanan is struck ill at a New Orleans gala, Dr. Michelle Renard works fast to save his life. Soon, Theo finds himself in a race to save her when Michelle is targeted by a deadly crime ring. They call themselves the Sowing Club, a devious foursome driven by greed to accumulate millions in a secret bank account. Now they're dead set on silencing Michelle, who might know the secret behind the killing of one of their wives. Dodging a world-class hit man and a band of cunning criminals, Michelle and Theo walk a narrow path between passion and survival.

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Julie Garwood created an electrifying tour de force in her suspense-charged bestseller Heartbreaker, a "crackling good thriller" (New York Post) that pitted a relentless FBI agent against a madman in a frenzied race for one beautiful woman. Now, in this thrilling new novel, Garwood goes further down the dark road where passion and obsession meet. Like his FBI-agent brother Nick, Theo Buchanan is devoted to his crime-Þghting career. Only Theo works the other side of the desk as an esteemed Justice Department attorney. At a gala ceremony in New Orleans, he is suddenly struck ill and is rushed to a hospital where a brilliant and beautiful surgeon, Dr. Michelle Renard, saves his life. It is not the only life-and-death crisis that will ensnare Theo -- for he is about to uncover a ring of criminals bent on preserving their secrecy at any cost. They call themselves the Sowing Club: four white-collar professionals whose sophisticated crimes have amassed millions of dollars in a Cayman Islands bank account. The group is bound by a pact to leave the cash untouched until they accumulate a cool $40 million. But their leader, John, has begun to lose his focus in their "all-for-one" commitment, distracted by and nearly bankrupt from his wife's grave illness. Knowing what must be done, John turns to his three friends. For the sake of the pact, their brand of crime must turn to the mercy killing of John's wife. But the line between mercy and murder quickly vanishes.... Now, in the small bayou town of Bowen, Louisiana, Theo Buchanan comes to the aid of Michelle Renard when her medical clinic is vandalized. What he discovers is chilling and deadly. As the relentless and cold-blooded Sowing Club sets out to silence Michelle, the one person who may have the information that will destroy them, Theo confronts the lies, greed, and evil that bind the lethal foursome -- and risks more than he ever has before. Michelle saved his life...now can he save hers?

Customer Reviews:

A Pageturner.......2007-09-20

This book grabbed me from the beginning with a do-good doctor, a low-lying justice agent, and a bad-boy investing club. Their lives entwine and the story unfolds. I kept wondering when the doctor was going to give in to her inner lust. Mercy turned out to be a great suspense with both the love story and the mysterious bad guys. I couldn't tell that it was the second of a series. I'm ready to read more!

It's aight..........2007-07-14

Julie Garwood is the queen of SWEET romance books, but what I wanted to mention was that she never really tells us if Noah Clayborne is a descendent of the Claybornes of the Rose Trilogy or if the modern day Buchanan family are the descendents of Laird Brodrick Buchanan from "Ransom"... while, the reader assumes so, it would be great if it were actually written.
For instance, I know for a fact that Jude Deveraux has a massive series for the Taggart and the Montgomery family that spans thousands of years.
But back to the book- very good, both in suspense and in electric romance, not the lovey-dovey stuff of her midaeval novels... more contemparary and erotic, but excellent nonetheless.

Theo Buchanan's story.......2007-02-22

This is the story of Theo Buchanan and Dr. Mike. All of the characters are like people next door and you really hate the one's your supposed to hate. It had great twists and I would definately recommend it as a good page turner. The Buchanan's are a great family - keep reading to read about Nick, Alex, Jordan, Dylan and hopefully more to come :)

I have to say, it WAS boring..........2007-01-17

I love this author and in deference to her I tried to read this book twice but could find little to hold my interest. I did finish it the 2nd time in order to give a fair review and I'm sorry to say, there's no other word for it, it was 'boring.'
And why someone with such a lovely name as Michelle would want to be called 'Mike' is beyond me.
This book had such potential but fell far short of being interesting, having any sort of intrigue, or conveying any attraction to the characters, which was amazing considering the talent of the author.

Could not put it down.......2006-11-04

In Julie Garwood's "Mercy" she had it all, everything you could ask for in a book. I could not put it down. I can't wait for more novels with the Buchanan's and even Noah Clayborne, maybe one day he'll be the main character in a novel one day. One can only hope. Enjoy the book if you have not read it yet, you won't be disappointed.

The New Testament Deacon: The Church's Minister of Mercy

Average customer rating:

Deacon Guide
Great Insight
The best deacon book available
Deacon's
Great to use for a deacon's study--overstates case sometimes

The New Testament Deacon: The Church's Minister of Mercy
Alexander Strauch
Manufacturer: Lewis & Roth Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0936083077

Book Description

Our heartfelt burden is to help deacons get out of the boardroom and building-maintenance mentality and into the people-serving mentality. Deacons, as the New testament teaches and as some of the sixteenth-century reformers discovered, are to be involved in a compassionate ministry of caring for the poor and needy.

The deacons' ministry, therefore, is one that no Christ-centered, New Testament church can afford to neglect. It's through the deacons' ministry that we make Christ's love a reality for many people. A ground-breaking study of all the biblical texts on the subject, The New Testament Deacon: Minister of Mercy will help you build a strong ministry in your church.

Customer Reviews:

Deacon Guide.......2007-09-26

As a candiadate to become a deacon, I went to scripture to help me understand what it means to be a deacon. In addition, I wanted to read some books written by ministers that had experience with deacons and their roles. This book was of great support in my search for additional knowledge. I highly recommend present and future deacons read this book.

Great Insight.......2007-02-25

Although I thought he could have saved a chapter or two by not rehashing some points he already made, I believe this is as close to the mark as you can get. I think it should be a "must read" for all churches - especially church planters. Get off on the right foot.

The best deacon book available.......2007-01-13

There are nine books about deacons on my bookshelf. This is the best of the bunch. Strauch starts at the right place--in the Book of Acts. He goes back to the foundations of the church and builds his arguments from there.

Upon this foundation, Strauch then goes on to discuss the calling and work of the deacon, how it differs from that of the elder, and what qualifies a man to serve.

Most of all, I appreciate his emphasis on mercy and service. Too often, deacons get wrapped up in the budget and the building--because those aren't as difficult as people.

But deacons are called to serve people: widows and orphans. We must love the forgotten and thereby reveal Christ's compassion to them in the midst of their hurting. This book will get your deaconate moving in that direction.

Deacon's.......2004-07-15

This book tells what role deacon's should play in church leadership. I think it is a valuable book that every Christian should read.

Great to use for a deacon's study--overstates case sometimes.......2002-07-03

Overall, this is a great biblical study dealing with all the passages which address deacons. Strauch stresses the importance of deacons and the need for biblically functioning deacons in any New Testament church. I recommend it for any pastor wanting to train deacons.

There are 3 criticisms that I have and anyone who uses the book should be aware of them.

1. Based on the Acts 6 passage, Strauch seems to limit the realm of the deacon to ministering to the poor and needy. It seems that the thrust of Acts 6 is the the deacons really ministered by taking some of the load off of the apostles--in this case it happened to involve ministry to the poor. In modern times, it might involve a whole range of issues that need to be done to free up the elders in a local church.

2. His decisions on when the term "deacon" ("servant") is technical or not seems to depend on preconcieved notions without much discussion.

3. His discussion of the possibility of women deacons seems weak. On one hand he stresses that deacons do not occupy positions of authority (which are reserved for elders) yet on the other seems to indicate that women should not be deacons since they indeed do have authority in the church.

Book Description

This bestselling book that birthed the Divine Mercy movement, one of the fastest growing movements in world today. This amazing narrrative will stir your heart and soul while it chronicles the experience of a simple Polish nun.

Customer Reviews:

I love this book!!!!.......2007-08-21

I really love this book. I use this book as a devotional. If you want to learn more about God's loving mercy, and the chaplet of Divine Mercy this is a great book for you. I am getting a lot out of this book that is helping me with my walk with the Lord.

Divine Mercy Today.......2007-07-28

This is an authentic and most beautiful revelation of God's Mercy, His call to the whole world today to come back to Him. God loves each and every person with an everlasting love which no sin can erase if only we allow ourselves to be open to God's Mercy, love and forgiveness. The world is rushing to its ruin and God's Mercy will protect all who come to Him but He will not force us. No one can read this book without being deeply moved and knowing in truth that there is a God who loves us. The world is not left to chance but God is warning us that evil is self-destructive. Peace is God's gift which He promises by Covenant to all who come to Him. GOD'S WORD CANNOT FAIL.

Simply Divine.......2007-05-18

This book provides an excellent insight into a humble soul truly united with Christ. It's an inspiration to re-examine our own lives to see the how we can unite our sufferings with the Lord and allow Christ to work through us. It also reinforces the message of God's Divine Mercy and God's desire to shower us with His mercy when many may think we do not derserve it or even want it. While we can never merit God's mercy, He truly was working through St. Faustina to spread his message that he wants to give his Mercy to all who accept Him and to the whole world which is in so desperate need of Mercy. Reading this book will make you look at things differently and it is a grace to read.

INCREDIBLE!!! .......2007-02-14

This is my favorite book, which says a lot considering how much I read. St. Faustyna's recordings of the words of Christ, as well as her own, will bring you closer to our Lord. Do not hesitate to buy this book!

The GENTLE Side of Jesus.......2007-01-15

.

This book reveals a GENTLE and COMPASSIONATE side of God.

You will read full CONVERSATIONS between Jesus and St. Faustina as well as conversations between Jesus and other types of souls.

Also, there are many visions and words related, both from Jesus and the Blessed Mother.

An ABSOLUTE must read....life changing!

Average customer rating:

Language and thought out of the ordinary
Poet of Pain
The Psalms, Updated
Cohen Connects With His Spiritual Heritage
stunning!

Book of Mercy
Leonard Cohen
Manufacturer: McClelland & Stewart
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Anthologies | Poetry | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

General | Poetry | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 0771021828
Release Date: 1986-03-15

Customer Reviews:

Language and thought out of the ordinary.......2007-09-29

Because I had bought and read his latest book I decided to buy an old one. Since his songs are poems set to music this book is prose brought to the level of poetry. Short thoughts on his relationship to a higher being or muse or idea. Thought provoking. A pleasure just to read. The man has spent his life finding the right words and metaphoric language for his deep thoughts on love and meaning and life. Thank you, Leonard

Poet of Pain.......2007-01-30

Although Book of Mercy is written in prose, its soul is poetic.
To try to describe it I must point at the Moon -- there are no words
in me, experience it for yourself. My best friend's roots are Jewish,
mine are Catholic, we have evolved into an inclusive state of being,
yet Book of Mercy shows us the origins of our religions respectively --
althouth it is beyond either.

Here are some publisher's quotes: "An eloquent victory of the human spirit in combat with itself." (Globe and Mail)
"One of the most honest and courageous attempts in Canadianwriting to grapple with ultimate truth." (Books in Canada)
"Resplendent evidence of an arduous spiritual journey." (Maclean's)

Nobody else in our times reaches the tundra of the soul's journey as does Cohen. A wonderful love-version of the Star of David graces the cover.

The Psalms, Updated.......2002-05-28

Perhaps Leonard Cohen has never been a King, as was David, but the passion of his reflections truly invites comparison.

Cohen struggles with G-d, in the finest tradition of Judaism-- indeed, of all spiritual combat. So he both speaks to G-d, and he listens. His listening compels me to listen with my own feeble ears.

This is a book for all spiritual combatants, whether Jewish, Christian, or Muslim. Or any faith that is "of the book."

Cohen Connects With His Spiritual Heritage.......1999-08-24

Leonard Cohen, always the great poet, has done a masterful job of expressing the spirit of the Psalms in modern prosaic, poetic form. And like the son of the chief psalmist, Cohen has traveled a road that has taken him through many life experiences, only to come through them to arrive at the knowledge of that which truly matters. Book of Mercy is not only a literary gem, but a book of enlightening and thought provoking inspiration for Jew and Christian alike, not to mention that person we often refer to as a seeker.

stunning!.......1999-07-09

I love this book!!! Leonard Cohen is the arguably the most touching writer alive today. I always feel a real connection with his writing, and it always leaves me in total awe.

Average customer rating:

Wonderfully done devotional CD
Praying and rolling along
An Amazing Devotion for Our Times
Contemporary, Prayerful, and Meditative.....
Wonderful

The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in Song
Marian Helpers
Manufacturer: Marian Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Audio CD

General | Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

Ritual | Other Practices | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

Prayer | Spirituality | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0944203671

Customer Reviews:

Wonderfully done devotional CD.......2007-08-25

I purchased this CD after listening to EWTN and the birth of our baby. After our baby was born, I missed my regular schedule of devotion and prayer time. Those of you with babies know how your schedule changes to that of the one your baby develops into; however I could pop this CD into our player when convenient for me (as apposed to trying to keep a specific time or keep a watch for the EWTN broadcast) and still participate in devotion to Our Lord. Not surprisingly, I would listen during feeding time and it had the added benefit of soothing our baby, too! I would recommend this gift to a new mother so she can keep her connection to prayer time easier. Also great for in the vehicle.

Praying and rolling along.......2007-06-06

I first heard this CD in Church on Divine Mercy Sunday. I purchased it and keep it in the CD player in my car. I've found that I can pray/sing the entire Chaplet on one round trip to Sam's Club and back.

No matter how many times I listen to it, I never tire of it. God is good.
I agree with another reviewer that the blurb after the first song belongs in the CD notes as a written statement and takes the listener out of the peaceful, soulful place into left brain. I just hit the NEXT button.

An Amazing Devotion for Our Times.......2007-03-31

I have been praying the Divine Mercy Chaplet for 10 years now but this is certainly my favorite version of the Chaplet. The melody is beautiful and the vocals show definite passion for this message and move me to tears. I wholeheartedly recommend buying this CD and making it a part of your daily prayer life. You will not be disappointed.

Contemporary, Prayerful, and Meditative............2006-07-05

I was moved to tears while praying with this CD the first time through so to say that I am very pleased with this presentation of the Divine Mercy Chaplet may be perhaps a bit of an understatement. The music is contemporary but harmonious with the subject matter so that I didn't find myself myself distracted but drawn in by it. The vocals are very well done and change just enough to mark your place within the prayer without distracting from the meditative purpose. The music should appeal to most everyone except those who think anything except Gregorian Chant is inappropriate and those who must have music with obvious percussion. "I am a Voice Crying for Mercy" is a perfect grace note to the rest and reminded me very much of John Paul II's CD "Abba Pater."

I couldn't give this five stars because of the track which introduces the Divine Mercy Apostolate track between the song("I am a Voice Crying for Mercy")and the body of the chaplet itself. It is terribly jarring in what is otherwise an excellent devotional aid and belonged in writing in the CD notes and not on the CD itself.

Wonderful .......2006-06-26

this is wonderful!!My children love it , they listen to the CD over and over

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