“Cradle My Heart” by Kim Ketola (Litfuse Blog Tour with Review)

Finding God’s LOVE After You’ve Had an Abortion

About the Book: 

Abortion continues to be a hot topic in politics, women’s rights, and medical practice. But for the eight to ten million American Christian women who have had one, abortion is a spiritual issue as well, raising questions of life and death, heaven and hell, grief and loss.

Writing from her own experience, Kim Ketola sheds light on one of the darkest and most neglected personal issues of our time: the widespread need for healing and spiritual recovery after abortion. “After abortion brought the worst trouble into my life I had ever known,” writes Ketola, “I just couldn’t see my way free to believe in God’s love.”

With a compassionate heart, Ketola offers ten true stories of healing promise from the Bible to help women answer the most common spiritual torments they face: Is abortion a sin? Does God hate me? Where can I turn in my shame and distress? How could I ever tell anyone the truth? And more.

Inspired by Romans 6:4–“just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life”–this is a definitive resource to help women see themselves and God anew and–finally–to find spiritual healing.

Meet Kim: 

Kim Ketola is a sought-after writer and motivational speaker with the Ruth Graham and Friends conference. After thirty years in the broadcasting industry, she founded a nonprofit organization through which she presents professionally accredited conferences to equip counselors and help individuals recover from the emotional and spiritual wounds of abortion. Kim lives in Atlanta, Georgia.

Visit her website: www.cradlemyheart.org

In coordination with the launch of their fall releases, Kregel will be hosting a live webcast event on September 20 at 8 PM EDT featuring authors Kim Ketola (Cradle My Heart), Teske Drake (Hope for Today, Promises for Tomorrow), and Dawn Scott Jones (When a Woman You Love Was Abused). The webcast will allow women to come together to share their struggles and fears in order to move toward healing and hope. Women will able to support one another and discuss shared experiences in a non-threatening, open and loving environment.

Cat Hoort of Kregel says, “”We are seeking to provide safe means for Christian women to be vulnerable with each other, to seek help and guidance from authors and counselors, and to find encouragement from those who have shared similar experiences. Our hope is that the Women Redeemed webcast will become a forum for hurting women as well as for those who can help. Kim, Teske, and Dawn are all survivors and their stories will surely inspire and equip other women to move toward healing and hope.”

To register for the event, just click here. {https://www.facebook.com/KregelBooks/app_241719209283045}

ENDORSEMENTS:

I want to recommend Cradle My Heart to you. In working with the pro-life movement, I have seen the incredible need for a book such as this one. Kim graciously communicates the love and hope Jesus brings to hearts wounded by abortion. May God continue to bless and lead your ministry, Kim! –Rebecca St. James, singer, author, actress

A compelling, powerful, honest account of accepting forgiveness and experiencing the miraculous, healing power of God. A powerful reminder that God wants to redeem pain in our lives and use it for his glory. –Dr. Wess Stafford, president and CEO of Compassion International, and author of Too Small to Ignore and Just a Minute

For the one who’s had an abortion, this book can help them realize that God still loves them and that there’s no sin that’s unforgivable. God’s waiting with open arms. This book is a must read for those who have struggled by the loss of abortion. While the Bible doesn’t specifically speak of abortion, Ketola modernizes biblical stories of hope, healing, and forgiveness in Christ. – Ruth O’Neill, CBA Retailers + Resources

Blog Tour Schedule:
http://litfusegroup.com/blogtours/13531421/kimketola

My Review:

The angst that follows an abortion is seldom, if ever, addressed at the abortion clinic or in the news.  Though I’ve not had an abortion, I do know women who have, and the guilt and shame are sometimes overwhelming.  Some drown it in work, alcohol, or drugs, while others suffer with depression and/or anxiety.

Kim Ketola, the author of Cradle My Heart, has had an abortion.  She shares her life transparently in hopes of helping other women who’ve had an abortion get the healing she has received.  She acknowledges it isn’t an easy or fast process, but through faith in Jesus Christ, healing can come.  Though abortion is a physical action taken, it affects your spiritual and emotions parts more drastically.  Only God can heal the spiritual aspect.

Cradle My Heart is divided into three parts:

1. Your Heart:  examination; invitation; open conversation
2. God’s Heart: demonstration, realization; restoration; jubilation
3. The Whole Heart:  consolation; dedication; celebration

In her book, Kim will share with you how to:

1. Face yourself and face God
2. Repent and accept God’s love
3. Forgive and be forgiven
4. Grieve and find an end to sorrow.

I found Kim’s book to be full of love, hope, grace and mercy, all of which stem from God through His Son, Jesus.   You won’t hear condemnation from God.

She gives Timeless Truths that resonate Jesus’ love to and for you.  She also includes a Reflect area where you meditate on Scripture that pertains to the chapter issues she writes about.  The Request section is a personal prayer about learning to trust the Lord and thanking Him for His help.  You can use that specific prayer or use it as a springboard to to pour out your own soul.  It’s a great starting place to check out your own feelings and state your desires to the Lord.  The Respond section shares ideas of how to grow in the Lord, develop relationships, and richly care for yourself as you reflect on God’s love for you despite having an abortion.

To find a place to assist you in healing, she has a list of places to call for free and confidential assistance and referrals.  To find healing and peace, please make a call today if you are grieving the loss of your child(ren).  You are important to God and He wants to see you whole.  My hope, after reading this review, is that you will find the acceptance and forgiveness that you are searching for.  Check out and read Cradle My Heart.

This book was provided free by Amy Lathrop of Litfuse Publicity in exchange for my honest review.  No monetary compensation was exchanged.

“When You Need a Miracle” by Linda Evans Shepherd (A Revell Blog Tour)

How to Ask God for the Impossible

Hurting people want a God who is big enough to rescue them from heartache and circumstances beyond imagination. But even if they believe that such a God exists, they may have no idea how to approach him, much less how to ask him for the impossible.

In this powerful book, Linda Evans Shepherd shows readers how to reach out to God and ask for a miracle. She shows how God’s miracles may not come packaged in the ways we would expect, but they do come in ways that will transform our lives. This book will be a comfort to those who struggle with faith yet still dare to believe that God cares. Through solid biblical teaching and real-life stories of answered prayer, Shepherd walks with readers on a journey to renewed hope and the assurance that God still works miracles.

Linda Evans Shepherd:  I’m the Baker Revell author of When You Don’t Know What to Pray, How to Talk to God about Anything, as well as When You Can’t Find God, How to Ignite the Power of His Presence. Pray with me through these books for yourself, your finances, your family, difficulties, and heartaches.

You’ll discover great discussion questions in each book, plus you’ll learn about a website in ‘Find God’ where you can watch short videos of my discussions of each ‘Find God’ chapter. It’s a great way to invite me to your study groups!

BTW, I’m also the co-author of The Potluck Club and the Potluck Catering Club series (with Eva Marie Everson.) See http://www.PotluckClub.com for videos and recipes.

Also check out my new Kindle book, The Living Story – Enjoying a Powerful Walk with God. See http://www.EnjoyLivingStory for more details.

To learn more about me go to http://www.VisitLinda.com There we can chat about how I can speak at your next event!

Endorsements:

“Linda Evans Shepherd is a gifted communicator who truly cares about the hearts and lives of women. She’s dedicated to encouraging us to grow deeper and stronger in our faith in Christ. I truly admire her.” – Babbie Mason, Singer, Songwriter, Author

“With a passionate heart to see people make u-turns toward God, Linda Evans Shepherd is the real deal. Her willingness to lay bare her very soul at times, makes audience members keenly aware how God has called this woman to touch lives.” – Allison Bottke, Author/Speaker and Founder of God Allows U-Turns

“There is a bubbling up of Jesus-Joy that exudes from Linda that is absolutely contagious. I love her blend of humor and heart and I stand back amazed at her ‘go tell the world’ determination. Linda is a warm purpose-driven speaker and leader who tenaciously follows the narrow path. You go girl!” – Patsy Clairmont, author of “Dancing Bones…living lively in the valley”

“Linda Evans Shepherd has blessed many by her warmth and openness. She’s not only a delightful person, but she encourages others as she shares her joy.” – Cecil Murphey, author or co-author of more than 100 books including 90 Minutes in Heaven

Information source.

My Review:

Linda Evans Shepherd’s book, When You Need a Miracle, relates to us the powerful insight into the approachability of God when we have need of a miracle, as well as getting to know God more intimately.  Linda is genuine in her examples from her own life and the lives of other people.

Many of us wonder if all of our prayers are answered.  Yes, but just not in the way we expect or the in the timing we may want.  Linda systematically goes through the many aspects of our relationship with God and how that intertwines with the results of prayer.  Never did I feel condemned when reading her book, but she did challenge me in many aspects!

Linda’s a strong prayer warrior, which you will see as you read the many prayers listed in her book.  They aren’t rote prayers, but a good stepping stone into the realm of prayer for specific needs.  She has a beautiful teaching style that makes you comfortable in learning how to talk to God.

Her chapters include:

1. Need a Miracle?–Welcoming the presence of God
2. The Trust Factor–Is it okay to pray for miracles?
3. The Love Factor–God is love
4. The Truth Factor–God’s will
5. The Forgiveness Factor–Benefits of forgiveness
6. What Hinders Our Prayers–The hindrance list
7. Fighting the Enemy–Spiritual warfare prayers
8. More Strategies for Fighting the Enemy–Necessary strategies
9. The Praise Factor–Establishing miracles
10. The Sold Out Factor–How to live sold out
11. The Next Step Principle–A few prayer principles
12. The Intercession Factor–How to pray
13. The Miracle of It all–Waiting and trusting on God’s timing

If you apply what you learn in Linda’s book, you will be well on your well to a deeper relationship with God through His Son, Jesus, and the leading of the Holy Spirit.  There are deep spiritual truths you can glean from her book.  Her book is one of those “keeper” books for continual reference.  Your faith will be challenged and it will grow as you incorporate these principles.

This book was provided by Donna Hausler of Revell Publishing in exchange for my honest review.  No monetary compensation was exchanged.

“Spirit Wars” by Kris Vallotton (A Bethany House Tour)

WINNING THE INVISIBLE BATTLES

Just as enemies fought Joshua in the Promised Land, and Nehemiah faced opposition as he rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem, our enemy will fight us as we approach the spiritual terrain God has promised us. Most Christians retreat at the first sign of conflict because they fail to recognize the true nature of the battle. But you can prevail in freedom and joy.

Sharing his deeply personal story of demonic bondage, torment and ultimate deliverance, pastor and bestselling author Kris Vallotton turns the idea of spiritual warfare as we know it on its head. He reveals the diabolical lies and strategies of the enemy–attacks and traps so subtle and deceptive that we may find our souls and hearts imprisoned without even knowing it.

No more! Now you can win the invisible battle against sin and the enemy. Victory is within your grasp. Will you take hold?

BIO:  Kris Vallotton is the author of several books including two brand new books entitled Heavy Rain and a book I co-authored with my son, Jason, entitled The Supernatural Power of Forgiveness. Check out the Amazon reviews on all our books. I think you will really enjoy what we have written.

I’m the co-founder and leader of a full-time ministry school called Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry. The school has more than 1600 full-time students enrolled from more than 30 nations. My life’s mission and the purpose of the school is to see every nation in the world positively impacted by the Kingdom of God. This school began 13 years ago with just 37 students. It is experiencing explosive growth.

I am also the founder and CEO of an organization called Moral Revolution. The Mission of Moral Revolution is to inspire a revolution that redefines the post-modern mindsets of the global masses resulting in a culture that favorably views virginity, the marriage covenant between a man and a woman, moral purity, and values the dignity of women, men and children. You can learn more about the revolution at moralrevolution.com.

I travel all over the world speaking at conferences on leadership, supernatural living, cultural transformation and sex. I have discovered that people everywhere are tired of religion, but they are hungry for true spiritual encounters. The occult has capitalized on this intense desire, which has led many people into a spiritual cesspool. I believe that Christians owe the world a real encounter with the living God. This has become my personal obsession, mission and mandate.

I have been married for 36 years to my childhood sweetheart, Kathy. We have 4 grown children and 8 grandchildren. For more information about us check out our website at kvministries.com and/or follow us on our KV Ministries Facebook page.

My Review:

We live in the realm of two different worlds, the visible one we see with our earthly eyes and the invisible spiritual one that isn’t always visible, the one we sometimes see with our spiritual eyes.  God created both worlds, and He has omnipotent power over both!  Whether one believes in the invisible world or not, it still exists.  It’s the evil entity of the invisible world that we war against in the power of the Holy Spirit. (Read the 6th chapter of Ephesians for a better understanding.)

Kris tells us his life story of bondage and torment to exemplify the two worlds clashing, and how the battle was won.   It’s a story that is believable and horrific.  It’s also believable in how his life was changed.   He goes into detail about the lies, tactics and traps the devil uses, ones that everyone will go through at one time or another in their lives.  His book is pertinent and relevant.  Each chapter is vital to understand the battle we are in, and Kris is thorough in his teachings in each area.

Winning the invisible wars that haunt people is addressed in these chapters:

• Fighting for Peace
• Are You Living in a Haunted House?
• Rules of Engagement
• The Wilderness
• The Flesh is Weak
• Treat Yourself Kindly
• Serious Joy
• The Armor of God
• Casting Out Demons
• Generational Curses
• On-the-Job Training
• For the Love of God

Kris Volloton’s book, Spirit Wars, is the first book I’ve read about Spiritual Warfare on this level since the teachings I received about seventeen years ago.  I can easily say I agree with 99.99% of what is in Kris’s book!  It’s Scriptural, forthright, and necessary for everyone’s spiritual life if they want to win the invisible war and bask in God’s joy, love and abundant life.

I would recommend this book for a Bible study group, a Sunday School class or personal study.  Whichever way you decide, please decide to read it!

This book was provided by Jim Hart of Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group, in exchange for my honest review.  No monetary compensation was exchanged for my review.

“Embraced by God” by Babbie Mason with a Nook Tablet Giveaway/Facebook Party~~(A Litfuse Blog Tour)

“Embraced by God: 21-day Devotional” by Babbie Mason 

Nook Tablet Giveaway, Facebook Party and Book Tour!

Embraced by God is a journey of discovering what it means to be unconditionally loved, approved, accepted, forgiven, blessed, cherished, treasured, and favored by God.

To celebrate the book’s release, Babbie is giving away a Nook Tablet and hosting the “Embrace” FB party on 3/6/12. All the details below.

Endorsements for Embraced by God:

Here’s what I love about Embraced by God: it’s as warm and caring, as biblical and wise, as Babbie Mason herself. Filled with passion and compassion, flavored with memorable stories and lyrical lessons, Babbie’s devotional invites you to spend twenty-one days basking in the truth of God’s love for you. A splendid new resource from a gifted sister. – Liz Curtis Higgs, best-selling author of Bad Girls of the Bible

If you want to enjoy the peace of knowing ‘everything is all right’ because of who God thinks you are, then read…Embraced by God. - Jan Silvious (Speaker, Life Coach, Author, Big Girls Don’t Whine and Same Life New Story)

Are you longing for the truth of God’s love and tenderness for you? Read this book! Babbie Mason has authentically, passionately, purposefully, and powerfully written words of healing for you! – Dr. Thelma Wells

{More about Embraced by God}

Have you ever wondered, “Does God really love me? Do I really matter to him?”HE LOVES YOU.As a matter of fact, God loves you just as much as he loves His own Son. In the pages of this heartwarming, thoughtful and life-affirming 21-day journey, award-winning gospel singer, songwriter, and teacher Babbie Mason reminds you, when you know you are loved by God and that you are in His eternal plan, you’ll never again wonder if your life matters. Click for more info.

{More about Babbie}

Babbie Mason is a Dove Award-winning and Grammy nominated gospel singer, songwriter, author, creator of the Embrace: A Worship Event for Women ministry, professor of songwriting at Atlanta Christian College and Lee University, and a television talk-show host. She was inducted into the Christian Music Hall of Fame in 2010 and has appeared on numerous national television and radio programs. Babbie has been honored perform for Presidents Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter, George H. W. Bush, George W. Bush, Lady Margaret Thatcher, Colin Powell, Steve Forbes among many others. Babbie performs a holiday special at Carnegie Hall every year. Babbie lives near Atlanta on a farm with her husband Charles.

{More about the Embraced by God Giveaway}

Embraced by God is a 21-day encounter that shares the unconditional love of God. “If you watch what the media says as to where we should find our identity–” says Babbie, “–money, beauty, power and technology–you’ll just be confused about who you are and what your purpose is. As a culture we are trying to buy or sell what can only be administered to the soul by Jesus.”

The Blog Tour sites are here.

Celebrate with Babbie by entering her Nook Tablet Giveaway!

One beloved winner will receive:

• A Brand new Nook Tablet with Wi-Fi
• Embraced by God by Babbie Mason
• Babbie’s Embraced by God Music CD
• Babbie’s Embraced by God Notecards

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends 3/5/12. Winner will be announced at Babbie’s “Embraced” Facebook Party on 3/6. Babbie will be hosting an evening of chat, music, laughter, and encouragement – bring your friends! She’ll also be giving away some GREAT prizes: gift certificates, books, Embraced by God music CDs and Notecards, and a book club prize pack! (Ten copies of the book for your small group or book club.)

So grab your copy of Embraced by God and join Babbie and friends on the evening of March 6th for an evening of fun.

Don’t miss a moment of the fun. RSVP TODAY and tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 6th!

Source.

My review will follow towards the end of the month.  A book was provided by Amy Lathrop of the Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for my honest review.  No monetary compensation was exchanged.

My Review: “Not in the Heart” by Chris Fabry

NO GREATER LOVE…

Truman Wiley used to report news stories from around the world, but now the most troubling headlines are his own. He’s out of work, out of touch with his family, out of his home. But nothing dogs him more than his son’s failing heart.

With mounting hospital bills and Truman’s penchant for gambling his savings, the situation seems hopeless . . . until his estranged wife throws him a lifeline—the chance to write the story of a death row inmate, a man convicted of murder who wants to donate his heart to Truman’s son.

As the execution clock ticks down, Truman uncovers disturbing evidence that points to a different killer. For his son to live, must an innocent man die? Truman’s investigation draws him down a path that will change his life, his family, and the destinies of two men forever.

Not in the Heart will release on February 1, 2012. For a sneak preview, download the first chapter.

I was born in West Virginia in 1961 and grew up in a small town much like Dogwood. I was affected by my parents, my older brothers, the hills, and books. I was never a very fast reader, but the things I read really helped change me. Particularly novels. I vowed I would write if I ever got the chance.

I met Jerry Jenkins at Moody Bible Institute in the 1980s. He discovered I wanted to write and said, “I can help you do this if you want, but it will be painful.” Boy was it painful. Gloriously painful. In 1998, Jerry and Dr. Tim LaHaye hired me to write the Left Behind: The Kids series. I had published five books up to that point. I wrote 35 books in that series over the next six years, finishing in 2004. I later collaborated with Jerry on the Red Rock Mysteries series and The Wormling series, and in 2008 the NASCAR-based RPM series rounded out my work in the area of children’s fiction.

Dogwood was my first attempt at writing fiction for adults. It took more than six years to get to the page and to find a publisher. It received the 2009 Christy Award for Christian fiction in the Contemporary Standalone category, which surprised the Dogwood out of me! My next novel, June Bug, draws its themes from the classic Victor Hugo tale, Les Miserables. A nine-year-old girl walks into Walmart and sees herself on a missing children poster. Who is she? Who is her father who travels with her in the beat-up RV? Charles Martin wrote this about the story: “Anne Lamott said that ‘good writing is about telling the truth.’ Chris Fabry has done this. Beautifully. June Bug is masterful. An honest story that dove deep inside me and lingered long after I turned the last page.” June Bug was named a 2010 finalist for the Christy Award and the ECPA’s Christian Book Award.

My Review:

Truman Wiley is a man lost–out of work as a reporter; out of touch with his family; drowning in gambling, hospital and school debts; loss of his small house; car repossessed; neglectful father and husband; and most importantly, out of touch with God.  His son, Aiden, is slowly dying from a heart ailment, and is desperately in need of a heart transplant to survive.

Truman’s estranged wife, Ellen, gets him a job writing a book about Terrence Conley, a death row inmate accused of murder, who is willing to donate his heart for Aiden, an impossible feat in itself without intervention.  Terrence and his estranged wife, Oleta, are friends of Ellen from church, and they just want his side of the story told before his execution.  As most death row inmates, he claims his innocence.

After receiving the retainer money on the book, Truman immediately goes and gambles it away instead of visiting his son and paying off bills.  His daughter, Abigail (Abby) ends up finding him and working with him on the book, since he neglected to pay her college bills so she could graduate.

In his book, Not in the Heart, Chris Fabry methodically creates a real-to-life story that is heart-wrenching in terms of Truman’s estrangement from himself, God and his family.  One sees into the disturbing devastation of gambling, a peek into the realms of evil, Godless men, and the anguish of his love-starved family.  Truman’s circumstances, his attitude towards God, and his comments directly spoken to you, the reader, opens wide a space for him in your heart–what a great point of view insertion that gets your attention! You sense the futility of his life without God, stumbling around, trying to stay ahead of the loan sharks and bill collectors.  Your heart is truly caught up in Truman’s life and relationships, and he seems to stay on your mind as someone you know.  The book also touches on those on death row who maybe shouldn’t be there–a hot topic today.

The investigative, suspenseful part of the story is woven in amongst the continuing family issues.  You’ll find this to be a book of superb suspense with multiple plots, and a sensitive, heart-warming book of hope for family relationships.  Without the prayers of the those who knew the Lord, things wouldn’t have happened as they did.

This book was provided by Audra Jennings of The B&B Media Group, Inc, in exchange for my honest review.  No monetary compensation was exchanged.

Book & Kindle Giveaway: Sheila Walsh’s “Gabby God’s Little Angel” and “Angel FB party” on October 4th

Sheila Walsh is excited to announce her new series for little girls and she is celebrating Gabby’s arrival with a fun KINDLE Giveaway and an Angel FB party on October 4th!

Meet Gabby for yourself here. Help Sheila introduce Gabby – be sure to check out her video trailer promotion here!

In Gabby, God’s Little Angel, Gigi fans will fall in love with Gabby and learn about God’s love and provision and a little about His invisible creation, the angels.

Read what people are saying here.

Enter today – Sheila and her publisher, Thomas Nelson, have put together an “Angel” prize package worth over $150.00!

One lucky winner will receive:

• A brand new KINDLE with Wi-Fi
• Gabby, God’s Little Angel

But wait! There’s more …

On October 4th join Sheila at her Author Page on FB for the Gabby, God’s Little Angel Party! She will announce the winner of the KINDLE, host a chat and give away a ton of fun products from the Gigi and Gabby line! RSVP today and then be sure to stop by on October 4th at 5:00 PM PST (6 PM MST, 7 PM CST, & 8 PM EST).

“Mirror Ball” by Matt Redman~~a B&B Blog Tour

God’s Light Shines Through the Smallest Prism

 

Matt Redman invites readers to reflect God’s dazzling radiance.“When God shines upon His church, we become a dazzling testimony to His awesome radiance.  You may feel ineffective.  You might have lost confidence in your ability to shine.  You may think you are too small or inconsequential to ever be of any value in the kingdom of God.  But no matter at all—for, in the end, it is all a matter of light.  His light.  The life of worship never begins with you.  It starts and ends with Jesus.  In his newest book, Mirror Ball: Living a Life that Reflects God’s Radiance, worship leader and songwriter Matt Redman reminds us that even when we feel insufficient to reflect God’s glory, God can show through us as light radiates through a prism.  Living in this truth will transform how we view our words, our relationships and our daily lives.

Passion is not only that which gets us up in the morning; it helps us see it through to the end of the day.  And for anyone who has truly encountered the wonder of the cross, it soon becomes a way of life.  If you’re looking for a heightened way to tell God you love Him, the very best way has little to do with stringing poetic sentences together.  It involves a life laid down in service and adoration.  The concrete evidence of whether worship has lived or died in us will always be our lives.  We sing our songs with good intent, but in the end our lives must become the evidence.

In and of ourselves we have no light.  But in His bright and shining light we are transformed and begin to radiate the glories of our God to the world around us.  You may be feeling totally inadequate for that task.  But if so, you have simply forgotten the most important part of the equation.  It is not about you and your best efforts.  It is the light, power and love of Christ illuminating our fragile lives.

Through story, Scripture and practical inspiration, Redman encourages his readers to remember that, however inadequate they may feel to live out this passion, God will work in and through them.  After all, the same God who said “let there be light” has made His light to shine in their hearts, illuminating their lives and the lives of those around them.

Matt Redman has been leading worship full-time since the age of 20. His journey has taken him to countries such as South Africa, Japan, India, Australia, Germany, Uganda, Croatia and the Czech Republic. He has worked with many church plants and is currently involved with St Peters, a new church planted out of HTB in London. His early compositions include “The Heart of Worship,” “Better Is One Day” and “Once Again.” More recent songs have included “Blessed Be Your Name” and “You Never Let Go” (both written with his wife, Beth). Redman is also the author of three books which all center on the theme of worship: The Unquenchable Worshipper, Facedown and Blessed Be Your Name (co-authored with Beth). Plus he has compiled two other books: The Heart of Worship Files and Inside-Out Worship. Redman and his wife currently live on the south coast of England with their five children.

Visit the author’s website.

Mirror Ball: Living a Life that Reflects God’s Radiance by

Matt Redman

David C Cook/August 2011/ISBN: 978-0-7814-0578-2/192 pages/paperback/$12.99

www.davidccook.com and www.mattredman.com

My Review:

“We are mirrors whose brightness…is wholly derived from the Son (my version) that shines upon us.” –C.S. Lewis

Matt’s description of the tiny mirror ball that was to be used in a huge Nashville arena truly exemplifies the truth of our lives being used by the Son’s light in us.

He goes on to talk about these different areas of the Christian life:

• Passion of the Christian:  Lives laid down
• Love will give it’s all:  True Love and faithfulness
• Big God, Big Life:  Off the charts and possible
• Drops in the ocean:  Together we are the Church
• Who do you say that I AM?:  The names of God
• 10,000 Reasons:  Life of worship
• The Rules of first things:  Seek first…
• Endless Hallelujah:  God is at work

Matt describes in story form and factual information how each of the above fits into your life.  His inclusion of Scripture backs up what he delineates.  Key points are set apart so that they make a deep impression on your life.

At the end of the book, you will find a life applicable discussion guide with a special surprise in each section.

Matt’s book is good for personal use, but I believe it brings more meaning when used in a group, as you get more personal insights.

This book was provided by Audra Jennings of The B&B Media Group, Inc., in exchange for my honest review.  No monetary compensation was exchanged.

CSS Blog Tour and Giveaway: “I CALLED HIM DANCER” by G. Edward Snipes

D A N C E R!

Book Blurb:

For a moment, Michael danced on top of the world, but one bad choice turns his life upside down. The once promising Broadway star now washes windows for tips and lives among the homeless. When his former dance partner recognizes him behind the fray of whiskers, shame drives him away from her. Angry at God and the world, the Dancer refuses to allow anyone into his life. When everything is stripped away, three things remain: faith, hope, and love. The greatest of these is love.

I Called Him Dancer is a story about how one woman’s enduring faith and unconditional love drives her to reach out to a homeless man who has given up on life.

This book can be purchased in paperback or in eBook format. Click here to take advantage of the .99¢ eBook special, or buy in paperback by clicking here.

Readers’ Comments:

This book is a page turner from cover to cover, [the author] makes you feel like you actually know the characters in his book. – B. Tillman, OR.
***

Almost too good to put into words. …you’ll find yourself saying, “Just one more chapter”. K. McNabney, IL
***

This book is a must read. Through this book the reader will learn about true love and the power it holds. T. Franklin, TX
***

I loved this book from cover to cover, the author makes you feel like you actually know the characters in his book. T. Webster

Eddie Snipes balances writing between a full-time job, five children, and participating in professional organizations. In 2011, he began serving as the President of the Christian Authors Guild.

He has been actively writing since 1998. Eddie contributes to OnePlace.com / Sermon Search, is a speaker, and has served as a Pastor and interim pastor. He actively participates in three writing organizations – The Christian Authors Guild, American Christian Fiction Writers, and the Atlanta Writers Club, and has won several writing awards.

Eddie’s favorite genres are not limited the Christian fiction – anything but sappy romance and trashy writing. I read a little of every genre - as long as I can get it on my kindle.

Connect with other Christian Fiction writers at the Christian Author’s Guild website by clicking here. BTW, we have non-fiction writers too.

Interview with G. Edward Snipes:

What made you write I CALLED HIM DANCER? Have you ever danced, taken lessons?

The only dance lesson I’ve received came when I was walking in the woods. A yellow cloud surrounded me and I began swatting yellow jackets like a break-dancer. Upon reflection, I don’t think I had the grace needed to make it big, so I quit after my first lesson. No more bees for me.

The inspiration for I Called Him Dancer came from a song performed by Tralena Walker and co-written by Tom Webster. I attended a meeting at the Atlanta Writers Club. Tralena and Tom were guest speakers. The topic was on how to write a story in lyrics for songs. Not my cup of Formosa Oolong, but at least it was entertaining. After performing the song, “Dancer”, either Tom or Tralena said, “We’ve been looking for someone who will turn the song into a novel. We think it would make a great story.”

Until those words were spoken, I was a passive observer. I looked up and words were swarming around me like those yellow jackets. They attacked my head while I lay screaming on the floor. Okay, maybe I didn’t scream – but my mind did. In an instant, the story unfolded in my mind and I knew this was something I was to write.

I knew nothing about dancing (other than what the bees taught me). Tom and Tralena gave me the lyrics and I started researching and writing. I have to admit that I worried about the dancing scenes, but I knew things took shape when people began asking how I became so knowledgeable about dance.  I thought back to the bees and said, “It’s just something that hit me while walking in the woods.”

Have you always wanted to be a writer?

When I was a child, I got my first book. I flipped through the pages, then tore it apart. I didn’t know it at the time, but that’s exactly what you do when editing a manuscript.

I hated writing when I was younger. I only did what I had to do, and sometimes not even that. Writers block was more like writers dementia. My mind didn’t return to me until after … hmm. What were we talking about?

In 1998, I became active in prison ministry. Many of the men I ministered to were eager to learn. Someone asked me if I had my studies or notes on paper. I agreed to write out the next study and then my writing career was born. The problem wasn’t that I couldn’t write. It was that I didn’t have something to say. Or didn’t realize I had something to say. Over time writing transformed from a task to a passion.

Is I Called Him Dancer your first fictional story?

My first fictional story was written in high school. It wasn’t supposed to be fiction, but hey, the best fiction looks like the real world, right? I’ll tell you the story.

In high school, I had a class that was dedicated to writing a 30 page research paper. I chose the topic, The Arms race between the US and Russia. It was the 1980s when the Cold War was still on everyone’s mind. We spent weeks in the library researching our topic. I say ‘we’ in the general sense. My research was sports and other useless browsing.  At the halfway point, we had to turn in our research note cards. The teacher graded them and as she returned them, she said, “Some of you aren’t going to pass this class.” She paused in front of my desk as she said this, and then dropped my notecards on my desk. She continued, “You cannot write this paper with less than 70 research cards.”

I counted my cards. Seven. A very weak seven. This information must have shocked my brain, for I didn’t even think about this again until the teacher informed the class that the rough draft was due in the morning. “Holy cow! It’s due tomorrow?” I said.

After school, I visited a few friends, ate dinner, and watched TV. It was now nearly bedtime. No more goofing off. I sat down and began to write. The information flowed. I clearly needed more research sources, so I interviewed military experts born mere minutes ago. But hey, Colonial Imagination was still a source. I wrote thirty pages – somehow. And I got a good grade in the class. After all, no one had more expert sources than I did.

I should have known then that writing was in my future, but it would be more than two decades before I discovered a passion for writing.

Tell us a little about your book, I Called Him Dancer.

For a moment, Michael danced on top of the world, but one bad choice turned his life upside down. The once promising Broadway star now washes windows for tips and lives among the homeless. When his former dance partner recognizes him behind the fray of whiskers, shame drives him away from her. Angry at God and the world, the Dancer refuses to allow anyone into his life. When everything is stripped away, three things remain: faith, hope, and love. The greatest of these is love.

I Called Him Dancer is a story about how one woman’s enduring faith and unconditional love drives her to reach out to a homeless friend, who has given up on life.

Who is your favorite character in I Called Him Dancer?

The character that inspired me the most is Kenyon. Many readers have stated the same. He’s human, struggling to do what is right, and lives by a genuine faith. At times he wrestles between what he knows God wants him to do, and what he wants. Kenyon is down to earth, not preachy, yet his life has an impact on others.

In the story I tried to present Christianity in an honest light. Many who claim to be Christians show hypocrisy and drive others (like the Dancer) away from the faith. This is a real problem in the Christian culture. Kenyon shows what sincere faith looks like. He’s far from perfect, but his simple faith impacts those around him. Kenyon’s sincerity is something the Dancer can’t understand and it piques his curiosity.

What would you like your readers to take away from this novel?

I want people to look at the reality of how faith impacts the world around us. Hypocrisy is being pretentious about faith, and there is a difference between failure and hypocritical behavior. Christians shouldn’t feel dejected when they fail. It’s part of this life of reaching upward.

Also, we all know someone who appears hopeless and hostile toward God, but we don’t know what the Lord is doing behind the scenes. Ultimately, hope is what everyone should take away. Hope that readers are not alone in their struggles. Hope that our lives can make an impact – even with our imperfections. Finally, hope that the people we care about are never out of God’s reach.

How can readers get in touch with you?

You can flash a light on the clouds that says, ‘Free chicken fingers,’ and I’ll play Batman music and come running. Some people prefer the simpler route of connecting with me on Twitter @eddiesnipes. My Facebook username is eddiesnipes. It might seem like a strange coincidence, but my LinkedIn name is also eddiesnipes. Even more crazy is my website: http://www.eddiesnipes.com. On each of these, I just closed my eyes and typed out random keys. I might have peeked on a few letters. You can get the book through online bookstores or your local Christian bookstores.

For the Giveaway:

For a chance to win I Called Him Dancer,  go to to the CSS Blog at: http://christianspeakerservices1.wordpress.com/2011/07/11/follow-the-css-blog-tour-for-free-book-giveaways-i-called-him-dancer-by-g-edward-snipes/ 1) Leave a message as to why you like to read Christian fiction.  2) Please leave an email address for me to contact you should you win, (i.e., booktreasure at gmail dot com).    If an email address and comment is not listed, you will not be entered.

Also follow on Facebook for more opportunities for free book giveaways

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MY REVIEW:

Before I get into my review, I want to say that I would absolutely love to see this book made into a movie!  The seemingly effortlessness of Michael’s dancing danced right through my heart.  Mr. Snipes’ intense, personal descriptions made me feel like I was there with Michael, magically moving next to him as his partner.

Having suffered much throughout his childhood, Michael had closed off his heart to love and God.  Raquel has felt a romantic love for him since high school.  But by the time she makes it through dance school and onto Broadway, Michael is nowhere to be found.

Upon finding him homeless and washing car windows, her heart’s unconditional love and compassion for her long-lost friend abounded with delight, searching him out until he finally talked to her.  Her tenacity in reaching out to his hurting heart represents the very love of God.  Though Michael had forsaken God, God had not forsaken him.  The story surrounding God’s interactions with him will keep you amazed and hopeful, though Michael is emotionally unpredictable and elusive.  Will he be able to let go of his deep-rooted bitterness and trust?

I Called Him Dancer by G. Edward Snipes is not a book you will not be able to read and forget!  Even if you are not one easily moved by someone’s life tragedy, Snipes expresses the deepest emotions of his characters in such a way as to reach down into the deep crevices of your own heart.  His characters seem so real to life, it’s as though they are people you know personally.  A high 5!

I was given a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for posting the author’s interview on my blog. This blog tour is managed by Christian Speaker Services (www.ChristianSpeakerServices.com).

Secrets abound at “The Muir House” by Mary DeMuth

YOU’LL FIND HOME ONE DAY…

Book Blurb:  Willa Muir can’t say yes to the love of her life … until she explores her past and solves the mystery of a haunting dream. But when Willa’s desperate search unearths unthinkable secrets, her heart collapses. Can Willa shake her past to embrace a love that could finally lead her home?

“You’ll find home one day. Sure as sweet tea on a hot afternoon.”

Words from Willa Muir’s sketchy childhood haunt her dreams and color her days with longing, regret, and fear. What do the words mean? Willa is far from sure.

When Hale Landon places a ring on her finger, Willa panics, feeling she can’t possibly say yes when so much in her past is a mystery. Bent on sorting out her history, Willa returns to Rockwall, Texas, to the Muir House Bed & Breakfast, a former funeral home.

But the old place holds her empty memory close to itself. Willa’s mother utters unintelligible clues from her deathbed, and the caretaker of the house keeps coveted answers carefully protected. Throw in an old flame, and Willa careens farther away from ever knowing the truth.

Set in a growing suburb of Texas, The Muir House explores trauma, healing, love new and old, and the life-changing choices people make to keep their reputations intact.

Bio:

I’m chef wanna-be, a sometimes tri-athlete (note emphasis on sometimes), and a passionate follower of Jesus. I’m in love with my husband and kids and am zealous about writing and speaking. (I promised my family I wouldn’t talk about my nose ring.) But they’re pretty crazy too, as you can see below!

My deepest dream is to see stories—mine and others—change lives as they’ve changed mine.

Although I write both non-fiction and fiction, I’m especially fond of the latter because of the power of story.

Endorsements:

“You know the minute you open a DeMuth book that you are in the hands of a superior storyteller.  Rich, masterful, poignant and spellbinding.  The Muir House is DeMuth’s best yet.” –Tosca Lee, author of Havah: The Story of Eve

“Mary DeMuth uses these pages as a canvas upon which she paints her most powerful story.  The Muir House grips you in an elegant tale that is part mystery, part love story, and wholly human in its portrayal of our deep need for belonging and a place to call home.”  –Billy Coffey, author of Snow Day

“What a challenge family relationships can be, often rife with conflict and rich with love.  With deft pen and thoughtful insights, Mary DeMuth has give us a story of just such conflict and love guaranteed to touch the heart.” –Gayle Roper, author of A Rose Revealed and Shadows on the Sand

My Review:

Mary DeMuth’s book, The Muir House, is a rich telling of a young 28-year-old young lady, Willa Muir, who is haunted by her dreams and days of longing to know about the ‘blank memory year’ of her childhood. She has a deep sense of wanting to be loved and finding where she belongs, as her life seems like such a mystery and so scattered.  She’s convinced if she finds that missing piece, her life will be resolved.  But does she realize it could open another can of worms to haunt her even more?

Then, when Hale Landon puts a ring on her finger, she panics and flees back to her hometown of Rockwall, TX, to The Muir House, hoping to find the answers she’s been looking for to set her life on course.  What she finds is her home changed into a B & B, and no one willing to share about her past, including the caretaker, Genie.  Even her mother’s deathbed mumblings make no sense to her.

Willa’s story is so real and relevant to many even today who find hauntings in their own lives that just don’t connect.  But it’s her relentlessness in pursuing her past, dogging anyone she thinks can supply her information, including her old boyfriend, which makes for relationship problems with some of those she loves.

Mary’s incredible list of characters will resonate with you in some fashion.  Some you will like–some you may not.  Either way, you will find yourselves rooting for some and wishing others would change.  You may even find some traits that you recognize in your own life and/or family and friends, both good and bad.  Her picturesque word choices let your imagination soar.

The painful revelations, and the way some are found out, will steal your breath away in shock and reach to the very core of your emotions.  Yet the tenderness that Willa experiences will delight your soul.  Mary doesn’t spare you any of the ranges of emotion, which to me, makes for a great read!  Because it’s life’s reality!

The faithfulness of God is felt throughout, though sometimes it seems so hidden.  It’s His influence that wins in the end because hearts are open.  How His influence wins out will be the mystery you will be searching for yourself in Mary’s book.  Enjoy!

This book was provided by Mary DeMuth in exchange for my honest review

“Pressing into Thin Places: Encouraging the Heart toward God” by Dr. Margaret Wills, Ed.D

Recognizing the “Thin Places” in Our Lives

Pressing into Thin Places leads hurting readers to a place where hope is found

Is there sustaining comfort to be found for the suffering, perhaps flailing, faithful? Dr. Margaret Wills, Ed.D, asserts that there is, and in her book, Pressing into Thin Places: Encouraging the Heart toward God (Brown Christian Press), she invites questioning, thinking, and hurting readers to recognize glimpses of wonder and to draw strength and find rest in the presence of a loving God.

Dr. Wills knows from her own experiences that life is not simple and that we all need encouraging words and reasons to hang on to hope. She offers these in abundance in this deeply personal, beautiful, and thoughtful work that summons authenticity and contemplation while soothing the dark night of the soul with kindness and truth. With transparency and refreshing gentleness, Wills tackles universal fears, disappointments, wounded relationships, and even death and beckons readers to pull aside the veil and to see into that “thin space,” as the Celtics called it, where all that separates heaven and earth becomes almost transparent. She invites readers to wrestle and be comforted by assurances of God’s love and goodness even in the darkness.

Pressing into Thin Places is a collection of stories from the author’s personal experiences, punctuated by her poetry and infused with biblical verses and rich truths. Wills answers questions like, “How do we keep from falling into despair when pain and suffering weigh heavily upon us?” and answers honestly questions about doubt, mystery, and the experience of not knowing. Wills offers insight for bringing biblical truth to life, wisdom to cultivate a listening heart, encouragement for the downhearted, reassuring words for the faltering, and comfort and rest for those in any stage of their faith journey.

“When Jesus delivered His Sermon on the Mount, He spoke specifically to the poor in spirit, the slope-shouldered individuals who had lost the hope that they would change or that anything about them would ever be any different,” says Dr. Wills. “He blessed those who had reached into their spiritual pockets and found them empty. He blessed those who were desperate, needy, and at the end of their rope. He offered hope. Through the book I want to offer hope with the sharing of a few ‘thin place moments.’ I encourage readers to have eyes to see that God gives us reminders that, though we are tethered to this earth, there is another realm of reality and to feel unified and connected with God through that knowing.”

A writer and a poet, Dr. Wills is dedicated to the ministry of encouragement and helping people experience hope, wisdom, and faith in their spiritual journey. She has written for a number of publications including The Journal of the Fort Smith Historical Society. She previously served on the board of the Arkansas Community Foundation. Dr. Wills makes her home in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

A portion of the proceeds from the sales of Pressing into Thin Places will go to the John Brown University Center for Relationship Enrichment.

 Pressing into Thin Places: Encouraging the Heart toward God

by Dr. Margaret Harrell Wills, Ed.D

Brown Christian Press – May 2011

ISBN 978-1-934812-99-0/208 pages/softcover

www.pressingintothinplaces.com

Endorsements:

“Margaret Will’s Pressing into Thin Places brought hope to my soul like the sight of crocuses pushing through the frozen snow-covered ground.  Resurrection life is real and it often surprises us in the bleakest of winters, as these well-written stories reveal.” –Dee Brestin, Author of the God of All Comfort and The Friendship of Women

“The gift of encouragement brings light into darkness, renews hope, and provides perspective.  Sometimes it’s all that’s left to keep someone from giving up…it’s a gift Margaret is generously giving to all of us in the form of this book.”  –Dr. Gary J. Oliver Executive Director of the Center for Relationship Enrichment, John Brown University.

My Review:

The many topics that Margaret Harrell Wills taps into in her book, Pressing into Thin Places, aren’t exhaustive, but are the ones she feels God is impressing on her to share.  Some of which include faith, prayer, encounters with God,  God’s presence, a listening heart, and the knowledge that God wants to be a part of your life, even during the hard times.  She does this through her short stories, poetry, her observations, prayers, and Scripture verses.

I found Margaret’s book to be a warm, soul-searching and encouraging book for those who walk this earth–through the depths of damaged relationships, personal bewilderment, the loss of a loved one, and absorbing grief.   Her true life examples show us how God reaches out to us in a very personal way, as though He has removed the veil between heaven and earth, reaching into our very hearts and souls while we touch His heart.    Life is hard, but He is there for you even when you don’t feel His presence.  Margaret is able to depict the heart of God through her short stories, poetry, her observations, prayers, and Scripture verses.

The stories are clear and to the point, personal and encouraging.  Her poems create a deeper personal touch, some of which I will be reading again.  And the Scripture verses expound and clarify what she is sharing.  Nothing is more powerful than the Word of God.  She closes with her inspiration of the Our Father from Matthew 6:9-13.   She has a way with words that will move your soul.

This book was provided by Audra Jennings of The B & B Media Group, Inc., in exchange for my honest review.