One Dominion : Celebrating Canada, Prepared for a Purpose (Review) + Maggie's War (Giveaway)

Canada has just celebrated her 150th birthday and to commemorate this historic event I'd like to share a review of an inspiring non-fiction book about this great country. But -- since we're all about great Christian Fiction here at Best Reads, I'm also hosting a giveaway for Canadian author Terrie Todd's latest release, Maggie's War. Read below for further details.

Beasley, Bob
Richardson, Paul
One Dominion : Celebrating Canada, Prepared for a Purpose

Canada is not a nation of one story alone, but of many stories, from ordinary people, and often ordinary people of faith, who helped form the foundations of our wonderful country. This book takes time to pause and reflect on the stories of these ordinary men and women of God who contributed to the fabric of our nation. Let us not just celebrate the blessings we enjoy today because of them, but learn from their example and, as we look to the future of our country, perhaps be inspired to action as well.

My Review:

A beautiful coffee table book that just begs to be picked up and leafed through. Stunning photographs highlight what makes this country unique -- both in landscape and the faces of the people who call Canada home. The authors draw from this country's rich history, choosing to share how Christians have made a difference in developing this nation. It reminds readers that our very foundation is based upon the faith of our forefathers and while we enjoy the blessings that comes from the fruit of their labours, we can be inspired to action as well.

Book provided courtesy of Bible League Canada and Graf-Martin Communications.


 

GIVEAWAY

TODD, TERRIE
MAGGIE'S WAR

After a lifetime of wrong turns, three faithful hearts are on the road to redemption.

In 1942, telegram always bring life-altering and tragic news in a war-hardened world -- and the one Maggie Marshall receives i no different. But running a restaurant with the help of only pregnant, unwed girls has taught her to be tough. Maggie's no weeping widow, but Charlotte Penfield thinks she's the most unfeeling woman on earth. Seventeen, exiled by her wealthy parents, and working in the restaurant, fanciful Charlotte runs away with romantic notions of a reunion with her baby's father at his military camp.

It has been years since Maggie darkened the church door of her pastor and childhood friend, Reverend Reuben Fennel, and his heart breaks for the hardened woman Maggie's become. When she seeks his help to find Charlotte, he's happy to aid her in the chase -- though it may cost him his job and reputation.

Over the miles from Winnipeg to Fort William, Reuben and Maggie's journey rekindles their affection -- and their dreams of what they still could be. But Maggie stubbornly clings to her independent ways until she's dealt another devastating loss, one that forces her to recognize that heroes can be discovered in unlikely places and love may be far sweeter than she ever dared imagine.

My Review:

Maggie Marshall's curmudgeonly ways are threatening to consume what's left of her heart. Charlotte, the pregnant teen under Maggie's care has nicknamed her Grumpystiltskin -- though she'd never dream of saying that out loud! Maggie's hard enough to please without riling her up any more. Pastor Reuben Fennel barely recognizes the sweet, carefree girl he once loved.

The fact is, Maggie has allowed circumstances to steal away her joy. She's faced some insurmountable hardships and survived -- that has to count for something, right? Even if it's left her a shell of the woman she once was. Maggie isn't very likable at the start of this story but she's intriguing and Todd does an amazing job of slowly revealing why Maggie is the way she is...and then sets out to redeem her.

Reuben plays an important role in this redemption story. He's a pastor but not a preacher. More like a shepherd, gently nudging his sheep back to the fold. His patience and forbearance stand him in good stead on the unusual journey he takes with Maggie and in the process he discovers the difference between faith and religion.

Touching and funny and completely captivating!

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like a chance to win a copy of Maggie's War, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If add your email in your comment remember to use AT and Dot instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easier for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday July 9 2017. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!