Reading is always a good idea. But in the busy-ness of life, it often gets pushed to luxury status. I’ve got too much “important” stuff to do, too many “real” issues to deal with. And when I do sit down to read, I’ve got a mission: solve a problem.

My TBR (to be read) list has grown remarkably over the last year – as parenting issues and ADHD have moved to the forefront of my mind, my bookshelf reflects my real-life stresses. For the last year, you could always find me with nonfiction, delving further into our reality and attempting to learn and apply.

I didn’t know I needed an intervention.

I got it.

For the past few years, my friend-since-middle-school Vanessa Rasanen has been working on a novel. I’ve watched her wrestle with the plotlines, create these characters, and change her entire schedule to write more. So when her “baby” was finally born, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it.

Turns out, it was exactly what I needed.

Instead of being caught up into my own reality, I was transported into the lives of a military couple as they navigated another deployment, personal tragedy, and a crisis of faith. I couldn’t put it down!

Vanessa has the gumption to tackle reality without sensationalism. She artfully weaves real-life issues in the storyline with humor and authenticity in Soldier On. The characters leap off the page, so I felt like I was curled up eavesdropping on two friends or choking dust and bad coffee alongside the troops.

The reality of our hope in Christ is woven throughout the storyline on a practical level. Yes, this is a book with a Christian worldview. I’ve avoided mainstream Christian fiction for a long time due to the unbiblical emotional drivel that it’s usually filled with. Who knew that independently published, military themed, Lutheran fiction would be more up my alley? :)

My return to fiction is a welcome respite from daily life, even if it involves explosive devices and weighty secrets. Especially if it involves humor and coffee.

*UPDATE: Giveaway closed*

Speaking of coffee… Vanessa has put together a fantastic prize pack for two lucky winners:

Visit the Rafflecopter link for all the info!

a Rafflecopter giveaway
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Or here: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/e368d67a2/

Pick up your own copy of Soldier On in these convenient spots:

AMAZON–  http://amazon.com/dp/B07J1H6FKV

NOOK–  https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/soldier-on-vanessa-rasanen/1129617353

ITUNES– https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/soldier-on/id1437109314

KOBO– https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/soldier-on-3

And check out some other blogs featuring Soldier On and more chances to win!