Friday, July 3, 2009

Hard Times and Holy Places - Book Review and Giveaway

"Trials and difficulties can, if we let them, become holy places — places where we can feel the power of the Atonement in our lives. Our struggles can be consecrated to our good and growth, and you and I can become more like Christ." — Kris Belcher
A few months ago, I received an autographed copy of "Hard Times and Holy Places" written by none other than Kristen Belcher.  MY sister-in-law.  I was extremely excited to read it and devoured it in an afternoon. 
 
My immediate next thought was "I need to do a blog review of this book!"  But then I thought "...but Doug hasn't read it yet.  I should let him read it first.  Cause I want to be able to talk to him about it n' stuff."  So I gave it to Doug and commanded him to read it.  And he did.  Over a period of about two months.   And again I thought "I need to do a review of this book."

THEN I thought, "...but hey, I'm going to Utah in another two months.  I'll wait until I'm there, get a few copies autographed by Kris and do a giveaway!"
Then I went to Utah.  
And saw Kris.  
But I didn't have any copies for her to sign.  
Then I DID go to the bookstore and bought three copies of her book...
but didn't see her again!  

SO, I have a book to give away, but it is NOT signed by the author.  
(sigh)

Now, about the book.  This book...is incredible!!!  It is life changing and thought provoking and funny and spiritual.  I like it even though she left out the chapter all about me.  (I'm sure her editor made her leave it out.)

In case you think I'm biased because I'm related to Kris and I'm just hoping to get another free copy of her next book, here are a few unbiased reviews:

Fabulous Photographer Jen:  "i meant to tell u that i just read ur sis in laws book... kris belcher's hard times and holy places. i LOVED it. since my mom got diagnosed with ALS i have been reading a lot of church books and this was my favorite. i went and bought 2 more and gave one to my mom and one to my friend who just had to give her adopted baby back to total loser parents after having her for almost a year, and then her house burned down a couple weeks ago. she said the title even made her cry. ur sis in law is amazing and i would luv to meet her one day." 

Sister Dahl:  "Kris's book was such an inspiration to me that I read it twice in one weekend!  And it really put into perspective the health issues I've been worrying about.  Kris is my hero!  She must be one of Heavenly Father's very elect to have weathered all her storms with such grace and dignity.  I highly recommend her wonderful book of faith and acceptance and love."

Kim:  (I found this one on the Deseret Book website.)  "This book was so amazing! It gave me the strength to look back at my life and find my own personal Holy places that I didn't realize existed. The author beautifully weaved adversity and testimony into an inspiring and entertaining book. She shows you the way to see your life for what it truly is. A difficult and trying test, yet a rewarding journey. I laughed, I cried and I will certainly read it again."

For more info about the book or Kris, here's her website: 

WANT A FREE COPY???
LEAVE A COMMENT!!!!!
I'll pick a winner on Sunday August 9th.
The rest of you, BUY A COPY!  

You can thank me later!!!

20 comments:

Our Three Sons said...

I definitely need this book!! I hope I win!!

Laura said...

Looks great! Thanks for the chance!

Anonymous said...

My book group read this book last month. It is truly thought provoking and inspiring. Especially for those of us living with chronic illness, and even for those who are not. Kris is an amazing person and her ability to push beyond expectations and trials has provided me with the little extra oomph to get through some of mine. Glad you've reviewed it - now for everyone else - go out and getyrown

Linz said...

Wow! That is wondedrful! I really hope to win a copy! (And if I don't, I'll for sure buy one!!)

DianeM said...

Pick me! Everything I've heard about Kris is amazing. Can't wait to read it regardless.

Miss ya:)

KT said...

oooh, sounds really good! How awesome that your sis-in-law wrote it! :) I would love to read it!

Polliwog said...

Wow, I didn't know you'd branched out with a book review site. And of course I am commenting because so far the odds actually look decent. :)

Allison said...

Pick me, pick me, pick me!

mama bear said...

This looks like such a great book, you know I would love a copy! What can I do to butter you up?

Amber Lynae said...

This book would be a prized addition to my collection. I love the reviews and hope to add one of my own.

Bartimaeus said...

This book exemplifies this quote from the Prophet:

"The history of the Church in this, the dispensation of the fulness of times, is replete with the experiences of those who have struggled and yet who have remained steadfast and of good cheer as they have made the gospel of Jesus Christ the center of their lives. This attitude is what will pull us through whatever comes our way. It will not remove our troubles from us but rather will enable us to face our challenges, to meet them head on, and to emerge victorious."(President Monson April 2009)

Linda M said...

I trust in your judgment and will read this book, whether I win or not. It sounds like a really good gift, or something one should have on the shelf when you are feeling sorry for yourself.
I will think pink on your other project and will start something soon. How's that for bribery?

The Jonas Family said...

Sure I want it. I never win anything. Make my day! Send me a copy.

Melonie said...

Oooo, this sounds good! And no, I'm not just saying that because she's your SIL. lol It really does sound like a wonderful read.

Please enter me in the contest. I'm trying to find ways to connect with the Church since I can't attend due to a family situation.

But even if I don't win, I'll read it. Amazon is my friennnnnnd. (And vice versa - Amazon should love me by now!) ;-)

Jenn said...

I need something life changing!! Sounds like a great book and would love to read it! :)

Topsy said...

Me ME ME Me Me Me Me!

Cuz, sometimes a girl's just gotta win something uplifting!

Anonymous said...

Sounds like a book I would enjoy.

Becky said...

It sounds like a great book and you sound like a sweetheart for giving it away!

Bil said...

Oh, that sounds like a great book! Crossing fingers! :)

Bil
bil@silkcreekalpacas.com

Brandoneous said...

Pick me or this blog will suffer the consequences...