It's A Veteran's Day Giveaway!

I had the privilege of being asked to review a compelling book, Battlefields & Blessings, by award winning author Jocelyn Green.  At the end of this review you will have the opportunity to win this heartwarming book-just by leaving a comment in honor of Veteran's Day!

Having a spouse currently serving in Iraq, I wanted to give this book an objective review without being overly emotional about the content.  To be honest I wasn't quite sure what to expect, but the subtitle, Stories of Faith and Courage from the war in Iraq & Afghanistan, encouraged me that this was not just another book documenting the atrocities of war.  That an account had been taken of miracles and blessings on the battlefields raging simultaneously in the desserts of Iraq and rugged mountains of war torn Afghanistan.

What first struck me was the unexpected layout of Battlefields and Blessings.  It begins January 1 and continues through December 31. Three hundred and sixty-five days of devotions or three hundred and sixty-five stories to be read back to back.  I did the latter and got carried away as I poured into the intense stories represented by each branch of the military, gender and nationality. These submissions are told from the perspective of mothers, spouses, chaplains and civilians. The scope of experiences is broad yet specific to the individual, giving the reader an intimate look into what could have been the worst day in the life of a soldier, sailor, marine or airmen.

Battlefield and Blessings touches on the foremost issues surrounding active duty military and reservists serving in war.  There is no sugar coating the effect of PTSD, stress, trauma and separation from loved ones.  And there is no shame in the fear felt in the midst of danger or the grief shown after a friend is killed.  What is written on these pages is testimonies in hope and faith.  There are no shortages of miraculous moments in which God is so clearly present, when He guided and carried His children into the unknown.  They are stories of redemption and grace, courage and fortitude, sometimes beyond our comprehension.

What I loved most about this book is the raw emotion with which these stories are narrated.  War is ugly, it is difficult and it has the capacity to destroy even without taking a single life.  Seeing the hope that God inspires out of chaos is a genuine reflection of the author's intent; to witness and share the incredible redeeming love and mercy of God.  To honor those who sacrificed it all for love of country and duty.

I will be giving away a signed copy of this book! Starting today, please leave a comment in honor of Veteran's Day-whether it is to share a personal story, words of encouragement for our men and women serving today or for those who have served so valiantly in prior wars. Please make sure to leave an email address so that you can be contacted in the event you win! Also, if you share this post in a link on your blog please let me know and you will be entered twice!!  The winner will be mailed their signed copy of Battlefields and Blessings next week, comments can be made until this Sunday, November 12th.