Snow Flower and the Secret Fan - Lisa See

Lily was born to a farmer's family in 19th century China. Born on the same day, in the same hour, and having their feet bound on the same day, she finds her laotong, old same, in Snow Flower. Despite the strange circumstances of their relationship, Lily makes the most of their relationship; one that is closer than a husband, in a time where betrothal and not love determines marriage. The distance between their classes brought them closer together as girls, but as they age their circumstances pull them apart. When Snow Flower can no longer stand the harshness of Lily's words, she finds comfort in a Sworn Sisterhood, instead.

While I can't speak for the historical accuracy of this novel, I like to think of it as a sort-of Cinderella story with Lily marrying up. I think many people can relate to this story with how relationships ebb and flow. How you can be so close to a person one moment and in the next you're in completely different worlds. From the glory days of secret conversations, the pain of betrayal, and the final reckoning of the relationship, nearly everyone can relate in some way or another.

Warrior Goddess Training - Heatherash Amara

Do you ever pause to think about yourself and your life? Are you unhappy with your life circumstances or the person you are? Or maybe something just isn't quite right and you can't put your finger on it? With ten chapters devoted to introspection and action, this book will get you back on track to becoming your best self. If you are having trouble speaking your feelings or maybe speaking a bit too loudly, this book can help you. If you are looking for a way to improve your self image or your sexuality that's covered, too. Are you missing passion and pursuit in your life, this book can get you back to it. The book not only provides lessons, but also exercises in order to get you introspective and motivated. Don Miguel Ruiz's influence on Amara is apparent by her point of view and vocabulary. The gentle, prodding tone pushes the reader to keep going even if the concepts and exercises are difficult.

Even if you are satisfied with your life, this book with its questions may turn you on to new paths to make your life even better. This is a fantastic book that will help get you where you want to be.

Recommended Reads:
The Four Agreements - Don Miguel Ruiz
The Artist's Way - Julia Cameron
Archetypes - Caroline Myss

Medicine Wagon - Gary McCarthy

Henry Wallace has a great life ahead of him with a fiancee and a great career as a physician in his father's practice. After an encounter with some hooligans leaves him feeling defenseless, he decides to learn boxing to defend himself. After rising to the top of his local gym over many months, he becomes confident in his skills. After jumping in to defend a young couple against robbers, he finds himself framed for a crime he didn't commit. He's either going to spend his life in prison or a life on the run. And neither prospect looks good.

This is my first venture into the western genre and I enjoyed it. With a simple storyline of hard luck for a young man on the top it was familiar, but it's time and place unfamiliar to my normal reading. I think I'll be reading more from this genre in the future.

Books in the Series:
Cheyenne
Trouble in Teton Valley

The 7-Day Prayer Warrior Experience - Stormie Omartian

What are the parts of the "whole armor of God" and how can one gird oneself with those parts? This short piece will teach readers how to don the belt, breastplate, shoes, shield, helmet, and sword that make up the armor of God and how to keep it all upon oneself. Each chapter is between 3-4 pages long, excluding chapter 1 which acts as an introduction and is about 8 pages long. Each chapter explains the importance and use of the item, along with a prayer, and a few study questions for a reader to gain more insight. Backed by scripture, this 7 day devotional is both simple and strong in manner. It's a great way to boost your Christian prayer life.

Recommended Reads:
Jesus Calling - Sarah Young
Self Talk, Soul Talk - Jennifer Rothchild
Keeping a Princess Heart: In a Not-So-Fairy-Tale World - Nicole Johnson