Winner of the book: The Heart Mender

 The winner of the giveaway: The Heart Mender by Andy Andrews is #5!
Kimberly said… I am reading Growing Kids God’s Way and next on the list is On Becoming Potty Wise then Potty Training Boys the Easy Way. My mom left a Janette Oke book when she was here so I’ll read that one when I’m wanting a fun, easy read. 
Kimberly, I cannot access your blogger profile, so please contact me at 
alanagruss(at)gmail-dot-com by Sunday, June 27th. If I don’t hear from Kimberly by them, I will choose a new winner!
Thanks to everyone for participating in my first blog giveaway!

Book Review & Giveaway: The Heart Mender ***CLOSED***

The Heart Mender by Andy Andrews
The heart Mender, based on historical events, opens the events of WW II on a new level. The story of story begins with a history lesson about the submarine activity along the gulf coast. Imagine, in the midst of World War II, German soldiers were actively attacking vessels in the gulf and were sneaking onto US soil to shop, go to movies and socialize. It’s hard to imagine, but there is historical evidence of these events.  A hurt and angry widow of a US Soldier learns about forgiveness and redemption along the shores of the Gulf Coast through a friendship with someone who has also lost much because of the war.  Follow along with how God changes hearts, heals wounds and impacts lives through friendship and an unlikely romance in a time of war. 
I loved this book, in fact, I read it in one sitting – I just couldn’t put it down. The fact the story is based on a true story made this book just come alive. It felt real and authentic. There are three major parts of this book: the discovery of items that lead to uncovering the story, the story itself and a conclusion. The author transitioned well between the elements of this book. I love how God is a important part of the story, without seeming overly religious. The Heart Mender is an inspiring book that bridges historical fiction, self improvement and inspiration. I would and have recommended it to several people to add to their summer reading list.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson Publishers, I have a copy of this book to give away! 
Please leave a comment with what is on your summer reading list to be entered to win a hard cover copy of The Heart Mender by Andy Andrews. I will choose a winner next Saturday, June 19th. Submissions end at 9 am on the 19th!

I review for BookSneeze

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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.”

Progress Report

Starting Weight

264.2 - 2012

01/06/12-258/262.4
01/20/12 - 245/261.2
03/01/12 - 229/254.8
04/01/12 - 245/248.8
05/01/12 - 235/250.6
06/01/12 - 225
07/01/12 - 215
08/01/12 - 199!
09/01/12 - 188
10/01/12 - 177
11/01/12 - 166
12/01/12 - 155
January 2013 - Goal!