Thank You, Billy Graham - Released!!

EVANGELIST REV. BILLY GRAHAM PRAISED BY TOP ENTERTAINERS IN TRIBUTE PROJECT, THANK YOU, BILLY GRAHAM, AVAILABLE TODAY

Entertainment Legends Reba McEntire, Larry King, Pat Boone, Kenny Rogers and LeAnn Rimes Pay Homage to the Man and His Message

Los Angeles, Calif. (September 11, 2012) - Pat Boone’s Lamb & Lion Home Video label honors American hero Reverend Billy Graham through its highly anticipated tribute project Thank You, Billy Graham. Available in stores today, this heartfelt multi-artist musical tribute DVD and bonus music CD is being re-released to pay homage to the life and ministry of Reverend Billy Graham. 

Now, in a one-of-a-kind biographical tribute, some of the world's premier entertainers, from Larry King to Reba McEntire, come together to pay respect to this American hero through personal testimonials and the joining of their voices in a multi-artist, anthemic performance of “Thank You, Billy Graham.” The project waswritten and produced by motion picture actor and recording artist Pat Boone, Grammy-winning Rock artist David Pack from the critically acclaimed band Ambrosia, and Grammy® winning Country singer-songwriter Billy Dean.  Special features include hours of interviews and in-studio footage condensed down into a documentary style, behind-the-scenes look at the making of this heartfelt tribute to the life and ministry of Reverend Billy Graham. 

“This is a once in a lifetime celebration for a humble giant who has devoted his life to serving God and humanity,” says David Pack, the tribute’s producer and co-writer. 

Along with King and McEntire, other featured entertainers include Country stars Faith Hill, Tim McGraw, Brad Paisley, Kenny Rogers, and Marty Stuart; Pop and Rock artists Michael McDonald, LeAnn Rimes, John Elefante (Kansas), and John Ford Coley; R&B/Gospel artists Jeffrey Osborne, Andraé Crouch, and Vestal Goodman; and Contemporary Christian artists TobyMac, Kevin Max and Michael Tait (dc Talk), Mark Kibble (Take 6), and Lisa Bevill among others.  The film also features a special guest appearance from former CNN talk show host Larry King who narrates the song’s third verse.      

Since he was ordained in 1939, Graham has preached to nearly 215 million people in more than 185 countries, and led hundreds of thousands of individuals to make personal decisions to live for Christ, which is the main thrust of his ministry.  His counsel has been sought by presidents and heads of state, and he has received numerous awards, including the Congressional Gold Medal. 

Over 100,000 ministers have trained under his spiritual tutelage, and Graham has been preaching at White House services since FDR was president.  His stadium sermons are legendary and only ended recently due to the world-famous preacher’s frail health.  Graham’s wife, Ruth Bell Graham, died in June, 2007 following a lengthy illness.

“He would not want to hear it, he’s such a humble man,” says Boone.  “But around the world, we need to say it:  Thank You, Billy Graham.”

A portion of the proceeds from the Thank You, Billy Graham project will be donated to Franklin Graham’s Samaritan’s Purse and Mercy Corps, two charities that support humanitarian relief throughout the world.

Today, at age 93 (Rev. Graham will celebrate his 94^th birthday November 7^th), he is still widely recognized for his humanitarian work around the globe and the work of his foundation, The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.   Graham’s son, evangelist Franklin Graham, serves as President and CEO of the BGEA.

Worldwide and North American distribution of Thank You, Billy Graham through all traditional and online retailers is via Allegro Media Group (https://www.allegro-music.com/)

To listen to the song “Thank You Billy Graham” please visit: http://www.GoldLabelArtists.com/media.  

About The Gold Label and Lamb & Lion Home Video

In the late 1990s entertainment icon and Billboard chart-topping male artist Pat Boone contacted a number of his peers – singers who’d sold millions of records – and offered them the opportunity to make new records and be part of keeping their previous hits available. The Gold Label became a destination for keeping in touch with the biggest hits of the ‘40s, ‘50s and ‘60s by the legacy crooners that made them famous, including fabulous singers like Jack Jones, Sha Na Na, The Ventures, and many more. In recent years The Gold Label began adding to its roster, hot new artists spanning a variety of genres including vocal and instrumental, Pop, Jazz and Neoclassical. 

In the 1970s and 1980s Lamb & Lion Records® was home to such Contemporary Christian artists as Debby Boone, Gary Chapman, Dogwood, Degarmo & Key, and the Boone Family.  Today, like parent company The Gold Label, Lamb & Lion Records is re-releasing catalog titles from legacy Christian artists, and adding new Contemporary Christian artists to the label.

Michael Vey Rise of the Elgen by Richard Paul Evans - REVIEWED

About the Book: (from the publisher)

Michael was born with special electrical powers—and he’s not the only one. His friend Taylor has them too, and so do other kids around the world. With Michael’s friend Ostin, a tecno-genius, they form the Electroclan, an alliance meant to protect them from a powerful group, the growing Order of Elgen, who are out to destroy them. The leader of the Elgen, Dr. Hatch, has kidnapped Michael’s mother, and time is running out.

After narrowly escaping an Elgen trap, Ostin’s discovery of bizarre “rat fires” in South America leads the gang to the jungles of Peru, where the Electroclan meets new, powerful foes and faces their greatest challenge yet as Michael learns the extent of the Elgen’s rise in power—and the truth of their plan to “restructure” the world.

My Thoughts:

“Better the devil you know that the one you don’t.”  (p.333)

Richard Paul Evans will keep his readers guessing who the devil really is in this book all the way until the very last sentence!  Arggggghhh!!!  The last sentence!!  I want another book NOW!!! Now! Do you hear me!  You can’t leave me here!!

But leave me here he did.  So, now I must wait none too patiently to discover who survives, who doesn’t and what happens to Hatch and his horrid guards.  And his horrid plan.  And, well, everything! 

Folks, I missed the first Michael Vey novel, and you better believe I’m going to look for it and devour it!  Evans accurately captures teens and pre-teens in all of their confusing glory.  Add some electrical powers, and you have a book that you can’t read fast enough! Seriously!  I was dubious at first, and then I began reading.  And continued reading.  And then reached the last page, and I want MORE!

No wonder this man’s books are hitting the NY Times bestseller list!  He is brilliant!  His writing is brilliant, and his story captures your imagination without dampening the human spirit.  Brilliant! If you haven’t spent time with Michael Vey and his Electroclan, what are you waiting for!!  It’s a wild ride!!

About the Author:

 
Richard Paul Evans is the #1 international bestselling author of The Christmas Box and seventeen consecutive New York Times bestsellers. He is also the winner of the American Mothers Book Award, 2005 Romantic Times best women’s novel of the year award, the 2010 German Audience Book Award and two, first place Storytelling World Awards for his children’s stories.
Four of Richard’s books have been produced as television movies. In 2000, Evans received the Washington Times Humanitarian of the Century Award and the Volunteers of America National Empathy Award for his work helping abused children.

Like Michael Vey, Richard also has Tourette’s Syndrome. Richard wrote Michael Vey: The Prisoner of Cell 25 for his son, Michael.

You can read my interview with him HERE!

What a Difference a Mom Makes by Dr. Kevin Leman - Reviewed

About the Book: (from Revell Publishing)

Boys will be boys--always.

And no one has a more powerful impact on them than you, Mom.

Surprise! Your boy wants to please you, and he cares deeply about what you think. Those driving needs will stay with him throughout his lifetime. That gives you, Mom, a lot of influence over your son. You can set him up for success in life.

In What a Difference a Mom Makes, the New York Times bestselling author Dr. Kevin Leman reveals how you can make a positive imprint on your son--from the moment you first hold him in your arms until the moment he leaves for college. And the best news? It's never too late to start, no matter what age your son is now.

Through Dr. Leman's expert advice, you'll understand who your son is on the inside, the truth behind sibling squabbles (and how to handle them), a secret for discipline that works every time, and how to navigate the critical teen years. You'll also discover how your parenting style impacts your relationship with your son and how you can respond in a healthy way to his growing interest in sex and relationships.

Want to capture your boy's heart? Want a man you'll be proud to call your son? You can make a difference, because you are the one who matters most in your boy's world.

Even if he won't admit it.

My Thoughts:

I'm still reading this book.  I'm having mixed emotions.  I'm mom to two teen boys, and I've recognized several areas where my parenting is totally lacking.  Other areas I'm doing okay in.  But the bottom line for me, without God in my life, and in the lives of my sons, none of it really matters.  I'm so thankful I don't have to do this by myself. God is ever present to lead, guide, correct, admonish and forgive.

Parenting is the greatest challenge in life, with eternal consequences.  This book sheds light on behaviors that are both positive and negative.  Approached with a teachable heart, this book can help you grow as a parent and have a positive effect on both your life and the lives of your sons!  I'm happy to recommend it to you!  I'm reading slowly and taking notes!

About the Author:

Dr. Kevin Leman is an internationally known psychologist, radio and television personality, and speaker who has taught and entertained audiences worldwide with his wit and commonsense psychology. He has made house calls for hundreds of radio and television programs, including The View,Today, Oprah, CBS's The Early Show, CNN'sAmerican Morning, and LIFE Today with James Robison. He has also served as a contributing family psychologist to Good Morning America.

A bestselling and award-winning author, Dr. Leman has written more than 30 books about marriage and family issues, including The Birth Order Book, Sheet Music, Making Children Mind without Losing Yours, and Have a New Kid by Friday. He is coauthor, with his son Kevin Leman II, of a series of illustrated children's books for each child in the family. He is also featured on 6 video series on marriage, parenting, blended families, and single parenting.

Dr. Leman and his wife, Sande, live in Tucson, Arizona. They have 5 children and 2 grandchildren.

The Reality of Grace

To Write a Wrong by Robin Caroll

It is time for a FIRST Wild Card Tour book review! If you wish to join the FIRST blog alliance, just click the button. We are a group of reviewers who tour Christian books. A Wild Card post includes a brief bio of the author and a full chapter from each book toured. The reason it is called a FIRST Wild Card Tour is that you never know if the book will be fiction, non~fiction, for young, or for old...or for somewhere in between! Enjoy your free peek into the book!

You never know when I might play a wild card on you!

Today's Wild Card author is:

Robin Caroll

and the book:

To Write a Wrong

B&H Books (September 15, 2012)

***Special thanks to Shannon Kozee of B&H Fiction for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Robin Caroll has authored twelve previous books including the Holt Medallion Award of Merit winner, Deliver Us From Evil. She gives back to the writing community by serving as Conference Director for American Christian Fiction Writers. A proud southerner, Robin lives with her husband, three daughters, and two precious grandsons in Arkansas.

Visit the author's website.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

In Angola State Penitentiary, a man is serving time for a crime he didn’t commit. Riley Baxter is an eager reporter desperate for a story to make a name for herself. When she stumbles upon the daughter of the incarcerated man, Riley sees a little too much of herself in the teen, and vows to help prove her father’s innocence.

At the same time, Hayden Simpson has his hands full with keeping his little sister in line, worrying about his job as Police Commissioner, and dealing with his past emotional baggage. The last thing he needs is someone blowing the lid off his emotional bucket. But when Riley Baxter storms into his life, struggling to understand why God would let bad things happen to good people, Hayden has no choice but to follow his heart.

Now, Riley and Hayden must work together to uncover the truth of the past . . . before someone shuts Riley up for good.

Product Details:
List Price: $14.99
Paperback: 352 pages
Publisher: B&H Books
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1433672138
ISBN-13: 9781433672132

AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:

Search inside this book

Love's Reckoning by Laura Frantz - REVIEWED

About the Book: (from Revell Publishing)

On a bitter December day in 1784, Silas Ballantyne arrives at the door of blacksmith Liege Lee in York County, Pennsylvania. Silas is determined to finish his apprenticeship quickly and move west. But because he is a fast worker and a superb craftsman, Liege endeavors to keep him in York by appealing to an old tradition: the apprentice shall marry one of his master's beautiful daughters.

Eden is as gentle and fresh as Elspeth is high-spirited and cunning. But are they truly who they appear to be? In a house laced with secrets, each sister seeks to secure her future. Which one will claim Silas's heart--and will he agree to Liege's arrangement?

In this sweeping family saga, one man's choices in love and work, in friends and enemies, set the stage for generations to come. This is the Ballantyne Legacy.

My Thoughts:

“My God with His lovigkindness shall come to meet me at every corner.

Even in a stairwell.”  (p.80)

God not only met with Silas and Eden in the stairwell, He remained faithful by their sides through trials of epic proportions!  God is so tenderly faithful to the characters in Laura Frantz' new novel, Love’s Reckoning.”   However, you better guard your heart as you read this epic tale!  I promise you, there is breathless romance, heartbreaking loss,  the darkest evil and the gentleness of God’s mercy….all within the pages of this phenomenal tale!  Seriously, DON’T MISS THIS STORY!

When I dream about the characters in a novel – and I did as I was reading Laura Frantz’ book – my heart has been completely captured by story.  Within the span of the first five chapters, there were characters I completely despised.  I mean completely!  There were characters that made my heart swell with tenderness as I observed their faith in the Lord and their complete trust of His goodness despite very difficult circumstances.  And there are very, very difficult circumstances in the course of this novel.  I daresay you will shed some tears as you read.

But, this is a story that is rich in redemption, mercy and grace.  There were times I completely despaired of any hope as I read the novel.  However, my faith was constantly challenged by the way Laura used specific Scripture verses in the lives of the characters to guide and strengthen their faith.  She does this so naturally, so effortlessly, that the words will cause your heart to leap with hope!  You will cling to that hope as the story takes very alarming and surprising twists and turns!  May we never, ever, ever keep secrets! (you’ll understand this fully as you read the book) The price for dishonesty is far too great!

I came away from this story deeply moved.  Well, and to be totally honest, I was well satisfied until I read the epilogue.  Seems like I’m going to have to face my worst character enemy in future books of this series!  It’s a good thing I have time to pray about that cursed person before I read the next book! I’m just sayin’!  The fact that Frantz can create a character that elicits such a response from me is kind of scary! She is a brilliant writer!

About the Author:

Laura Frantz is a lover of history, is the author of The Frontiersman's Daughter,Courting Morrow Little, and The Colonel's Lady, and currently lives in the misty woods of Washington with her husband and two sons.

Bayou Blue by Raquel Byrnes - REVIEWED

About the Book: (from Whit Rose Publishing)
Caught between revenge and redemption...

With her family shamed and her faith shaken, Riley Drake carries a heavy burden. She returns to Bayou La Foudre Parish to clear her brother's name, but her mission proves difficult and dangerous. The locals are convinced he's guilty of the tragic bombing that left the town in mourning, and she finds her only ally is Jake Ayers. Frustrated and fascinated by the parish's brooding sheriff, Riley hopes she's found someone to trust with her burden...and her heart. 

Sheriff Jake Ayers wants peace and healing in his parish, but Riley's presence stirs tempers into a frenzy. Most of the townsfolk want her dead. Emotions run deep in the bayou, and Jake's are no exception. Keeping a level head and an indifferent heart is going to be as difficult as keeping Riley alive.


My Thoughts:

“Sometimes a death can eat up the oxygen in a home and you have to escape for a bit.”  (Jake to Riley)

Bayou Blue is the story of Riley’s pursuit of truth in the wake of her brother’s death.  She is also pursuing her new and fragile faith amid a storm of grief and pain felt by the entire community of Bayou La Foudre, Louisiana in the wake of a tragic accident.  Riley is a tough, seasoned investigative reporter that is seeking truth in spite of everything, and it almost costs her life in the process!

Sherriff Jake Ayers is also pursuing truth for the people in his parish. He never expected to come against Riley’s intense determination to find the truth behind her brother’s death.  He wasn’t prepared to face the truth of his own emotions as he tries to protect Riley from the evil that pursues her through the Bayou.  As a storm builds in intensity in the Gulf and races toward the town, an internal storm builds in intensity as well, and some won’t survive its wrath!

By now, you all know I am a HUGE fan of the suspense genre.  I discovered Raquel Byrnes’ talent in her first novel, Ruby Dawn, and immediately fell in love with her stories and style!  She can take your breath away with the honesty of the emotion between her characters!  The pages almost sizzle with the sparks that fly between Jake and Riley! And the way she builds the suspense of the mystery that surrounds the death of Riley’s brother, Randy, keeps you reading at a frantic pace!  Her stories contain all of the elements of excellence for romantic suspense that will leave the reader deeply satisfied in multiple areas – the pace, the prose, the romance, the tenuous way the characters cling to faith, the brilliant way the bad guy hides in plain sight – it’s all most excellent!!

If you enjoy romantic suspense, don’t miss a word that falls from Raquel Byrnes’ pen!! Scour your area until you find her books, and buy them! You won’t be disappointed!  (except that you will have to wait until she writes another book!)

About the Author:

I live in Southern, California with my husband of sixteen years and our six children. I've been homeschooling for ten years.

I enjoy going to writer's conferences and love to do research for my books. From taking a private investigator course to learning to target shoot, I consider writing a way of life. I have written several books to date.

I love to read and consider it a wonderful way to minister to others. Sometimes taking a spiritual journey with a character you identify with can open up your eyes to the awesome generostiy of the Lord.

visit: http://www.raquelbyrnes.com/