"Echoes" by Robin Jones Gunn

“Echoes” is the third book in Robin Jones Gunn’s Glenbrooke series. Lauren is a vivacious young lady who has a hard time after going through a broken engagement. With the help of her family, some good friends, and an on-line pen pal, she learns to move on. What she didn’t bank on was falling for the person on the other side of the computer known only to her as K.C. They correspond for a year, but then Lauren has to make the decision- do they meet face to face? She’s faced rejection so many times, is it a good idea? Should she even be meeting someone she’s never seen- isn’t that dangerous?

I loved this book. Maybe because I’m a sap for a good romance and honest characters. Gunn does a good job of creating characters that aren’t realistic- they mess up just like real people do. The nice thing is that, although the book is part of a series, you’re able to read it without knowing the background story of the series.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

"Neighbors and Wise Men: Sacred Encounters in a Portland Pub and Other Unexpected Places" by Tony Kriz

Readers might recognize “Neighbors and Wise Men” author as Tony the Beat Poet from Donald Miller’s “Blue Like Jazz.” Tony Kriz has written his own story and, like “Blue Like Jazz,” it is special.

“Neighbors and Wise Men” is a book of thoughts. Each chapter is broken into sections based on Tony’s thoughts about living the Christian life and what it looks like sharing the Gospel. His thoughts range from his time as a broken missionary in Albania to living life at Reed College to learning Biblical truths from nonbelievers.

I loved this book. Even though it’s a book of musings, they challenge you to think about the strict guidelines Christians often impose on themselves and others- many times without thought or question. Even if you don’t agree with everything he talks about, it’s a good read to make you chew on some of the things he points out.

It’s a good read for anyone, whether you believe in God or not, because it focuses on relationships cross-culturally. I highly recommend it. It’ll end up on my Favorites shelf.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://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 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

"Clouds" by RobinJones Gunn

"Clouds" is the republished fifth book of Robin Jones Gunn's Glenbrooke series. The story revolves around Jonathan Renfield and Shelly Graham-kids who grew up together and eventually fell in love. But due to harsh words, the two break ties. The book picks up five years later as Shelly moves home and memories of Jonathan overwhelm her as she wonders where life has taken him. 

The story is an enjoyable romance filled with travel and sisterhood. I enjoyed the story Robin weaves. Part of me wonders if this is one of her first books published, as it isn't as fluid as some other books I've read of her such as the Christy Miller series. I was sad that the book had such an abrupt ending. Hopefully we'll see more of Jonathan and Shelly in the remainder of the Glenbrooke series, because they have a sweet story. 

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.