HisKidz United!!

HIS KIDZ UNITED   CD FEATURING KIDS SINGING TODAY'S TOP CHRISTIAN HITS RELEASES TODAY Volume 1 in Series Available At All Major Retailers, Including Walmart, Lifeway, Family Christian Stores, Mardel Christian Stores and Amazon

The His Kidz United CD Series launches today at major retailers. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (April 29, 2014) - His Kidz United and INgrooves/Capitol Christian Distribution announce today's release of the His Kidz United CD series, a music brand for kids ages 5-14 which features kid-sung versions of today's top Christian hits, including "Overcomer" by Mandisa, "Shake" by MercyMe, and "Speak Life" by TobyMac.  His Kidz United, Volume 1 is available today through major retail outlets, including Family Christian Stores, Walmart, Lifeway, Mardel Christian Stores, iTunes and Amazon. Two digital versions are also being released today --a sing-a-long version and an instrumental version of all 18 songs on the project. Additionally, all products are bundled and available at a discount at the His Kidz United website.  The His Kidz United series is slated to release four new volumes per year. Each album offers 16 popular favorites plus two bonus originals. Parents of four themselves, His Kidz United founders Jimmy and Mai Swan recognized a gap in the supply of uplifting Christian music kids can truly appreciate. A labor of love transformed the best of CCM into an album with which their own children would quickly fall in love.    "Up until now, there have been no other products like His Kidz United CDs," says Jimmy Swan, executive producer of the project. "Why wouldn't parents want to invest in positive Christian music for their children? And while the music is focusing on kids ages 5 to 14, we're finding that young adults and even parents enjoy listening to the music, too!" The CD release was celebrated at a special His Kidz United Birthday Party April 27 at Neighborhood Arts & Music School (NAMS) in the Dallas suburb of Frisco, Texas, where all of the tracks were recorded and produced with NAMS students performing on the series. Proceeds of His Kidz UnitedCDs benefit the Dallas NAMS.  The highlight of the launch event was the interaction with the kids who sang on the CD and their parents.  "To have the parents there listening to their kids on the album was a really great experience," Swan says. "Hearing what a blessing it was for the kids to be a part of it was great, too. Emily, the girl who sang 'Shake' on the CD, told me that she was able to meet MercyMe and play our version of the song for them. Making those kind of dreams come true is really special to me."  The students from NAMS play an important role in the mission of the His Kidz United series.  Swan felt it was paramount to have a consistent group of kids performing on the series, and his friendship with the school's director, Levi Bradford, made the collaboration a natural fit.   "Kids listen to kids," says Swan. "Parents are careful to teach their kids about 'stranger danger.' When an adult approaches a kid, they tend to get shy. But the minute another kid enters the room, there is an instant connection. As a parent, I want to impact my kids with spiritual messages and let them rejoice in the Lord. What is the best way to do this? Let them connect with their peers!" Sales figures from recent kid-focused projects prove that adults invest in kids. The Frozensoundtrack from the animated Disney blockbuster film of the same name hit No. 1 on the charts, selling 2.3 million copies, and the DVD sold 3 million copies on the first day of its release. The KIDZ BOP CD series released by Razor & Tie has sold more than 16 million units of its first 25 titles.   "Our goal with this series is to give kids an opportunity to be encouraged, inspired and drawn to the Lord through the powerful tool of music, and give them something to relate to," Swan says.  For more information, visit HisKidzUnited.com or like on Facebook atfacebook.com/HisKidzUnited.

About His Kidz United: His Kidz United is a music brand for kids ages 5-14, featuring today's most popular Christian songs, performed by youth and targeting a youth audience. His Kidz United is a division of Jimmy Swan Productions, LLC, an integrated entertainment company involved with music, film and TV distribution, publishing, artist management and marketing.   Teens, tweens and children alike can now enjoy the best of Contemporary Christian Music-tailor-made just for them. His Kidz United exclusively features young voices belting out fresh, new mixes of today's most popular Christian hits. From well-loved tunes such as the vibrant celebration chorus, "Shake," to the worshipful tones of "10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord)," or the driving declaration of "I Am" and the tight harmonies of "O Praise Him," His Kidz United marries the dynamic energy of youth with the popular trends of proven hits.  For more information about His Kidz United visit HisKidzUnited.com.

Paige Turned by Erynn Mangum - REVIEWED

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Paige Turned TH1NK (April 1, 2014) by Erynn Mangum

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A few things about her:

So, if we were having this conversation in person, we would probably be hanging out at Starbucks or one of the cute coffeehouses in town. I’m nuts about all things coffee, I’m crazy about all things pink and girly, and I love, love, love the Food Network! I’m married to my best friend and the most amazing guy ever, Jon. He is amiable toward coffee, does not like anything pink or girly and tolerates the Food Network. So, we make a good match! In July 2010, we became parents to one of the funniest, cutest, sweetest little guys in the whole world (and nope, we aren’t biased at all!), our Nater-Tot, who is legally known as Nathan. Most days, I’m cleaning up messes, making goofy faces, trying to fit some writing in, and just LOVING the life that God has given me!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Despite her valiant efforts, Paige Alder seems stuck in chaos. Her new job as youth intern keeps her hopping from coffee shop to coffee shop all summer long, but at least she’s loving the one-on-one time she gets to spend with the girls. The unfortunate side-effect is that now, four weeks of laundry fills her apartment. Plus, she barely has time to help her sister and best friend with their weddings! And even worse? Something is definitely wrong between her and Tyler. She apologized for what he thought he saw happen with Luke. Can’t they move past it? Or could there be something he’s not telling her—something that could change everything?

If you'd like to read the first chapter of Paige Turned, go HERE.



My Thoughts:

“Eventually is my least favorite word ever.  I’m with the people at Nike on this one. Just do it, for Pete’s sake.”  (p 41)

I totally adore Paige Alder!!  She is so real (for the most part) in her relationships!  She has learned to be more honest with herself and others, and that is really important considering the fact that her sister and best friend are getting married and she is sorting through her own relationship crisis! 

I love, love, love the way Paige takes such tender care of the young ladies she works with and ministers to.  I love the way she is there for her friends an eats ice cream and laughs until she can barely breathe! I love the snarky way she thinks  and responds to things, and most of all, I love that Erynn Mangum’s books make me laugh and teach me deep truths all at the same time!

You really need get to know Paige Alder folks!  She is a really special lady who is learning how much she is loved by God and how tenderly He takes care of her.  This is a fabulous series! You can go HERE to read my review of Paige Rewritten.

Return to the Hiding Place!! COMING SOON!!

Los Angeles, Calif. (April 28, 2014) – Seatzy™ presents the World War II action-packed, riveting drama portraying the rescue of Dutch Jews during the Holocaust and the compelling story of a young band of passionate teens through the formation of their own Resistance Army, in Return to the Hiding Place. See info here:  www.hide-movie.com.

Slated to open in a dozen cities including, Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, San Antonio, Texas and Washington DC on May 23, 2014, the multi award-winning film stars John Rhys-Davies (Indiana Jones, Lord of the Rings), Craig Robert Young (“NCIS: LA,” “Hawaii Five-O”), David Thomas Jenkins (“CSI:Miami,” “Bold and the Beautiful”), Rachel Spencer Hewitt (Fly by Night, A Civil War Christmas) and Mimi Sagadin (The Dilemma).

Return to the Hiding Place is scheduled to release in San Antonio, TX through the movie ticket reservation platform and film distribution company called Seatzy™.  Seatzy allows moviegoers to participate in the process of supporting the films they love by getting ticket reservations (500 minimum) in early and assuring the film will play in the theater closest to them. Tickets for San Antonio, which when reserved/purchased will ensure that the film shows in this city, are currently available via www.seatzy.com/hidingplace.

Highlighting themes of endurance, perseverance and faith with positive values and moving action sequences, Return to the Hiding Place is based on the true story taken from the autobiographical book of the same name written by Hans Poley that recounts his experiences as a student resistance fighter during the Holocaust in World War II. Set in Holland, the movie follows the exploits of an army of untrained teenagers living in hiding at Corrie Ten Boom’s home, who face deadly challenges in the Resistance as they rescue Dutch Jews from the Holocaust.

Directed and produced by the father daughter team of Peter C. Spencer and Petra Spencer Pearce, Return to the Hiding Place also features a stellar crew that includes editor Josiah Spencer and co-producer Jeff Canavan.

“Return to the Hiding Place depicts a great story with real historical characters brought to life in a stunning account of self-sacrifice for the greater good,” says director Peter Spencer. “It captures a moment in time that will impact society for generations to come.”

Premiering to a sold-out screening at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah, Return to the Hiding Place has garnered several awards to date. The movie was selected as “Best Feature Film” at the Bel-Air Film Festival, Central Florida Film Festival, San Antonio Christian Film Festival and Life Fest Film Festival. In addition, it also garnered awards for “Best Cinematography” and “Director’s Selection” at the Bel-Air Film and Life Fest Film Festivals and was recently chosen as the “Official Selection” at both the Projecting Hope Film and Mission Fest Vancouver Film Festivals. Return to the Hiding Place has also been recognized by Yad Vashem, Israel's official memorial to the Jewish victims of the Holocaust. For the latest news and updates regarding Return to the Hiding Place, please visit:

Website: http://www.hide-movie.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Return-to-the-Hiding-Place/341262263480

Twitter:    www.twitter.com/hidemovie@HideMovie

Seatzy: www.seatzy.com/hidingplace

 About Peter Spencer                                                                                

Peter Spencer has won numerous national awards for writing, producing and directing, including his TV series, “Heroes of the Faith,” shown on over 2,000 stations worldwide. Peter wrote and orated Holy Art in a piece by award-winning international media-artist Christian Jankowsky, which has been exhibited at the Whitney Museum in New York and other museums and galleries throughout the Berlin, Paris and 21 major European capitals. Spencer has garnered praise from the New York Times, Washington Post, and L.A. Times for his communication style. His interviews with his mentor, Hans Poley led him to research the Dutch Archives, life histories and survivors of the Hiding Place and their friends. This created a world immersed in the realities of Holland in the 40's, inspiring meticulous, and a realistic script for the multi festival award winning film, Return to the Hiding Place. Additionally, Peter's most recent project in development is Thief, a drama, based on Spencer's book of the same name, which chronicles the life-story of the actual thief/revolutionary who was crucified next to Christ.

Not Who I Want to Be by Glenn Sasscer - REVIEWED

About the Book:

We have a longing and a thirst when we look past our worldly reflection . . . a thirst for something more. God created us in the divine image and likeness, and created a desire within us to be real and genuine. If you look to your inner reflection, are you truly who you want to be?

Being real, genuine, or who God calls us to be is not a destination . . . it is a lifestyle. This lifestyle begins by purposely recognizing the unfiltered and unchecked information stored away and accepted as part of our self-image and deliberately cleaning it out. To do this, we must have a standard for comparison.

Not Who I Want to Be begins by analyzing the external sources of our self-image and how these sources influence our lives. It then works through finding our truth in Scripture and in the example given to us in the life of Jesus Christ. Jesus becomes our standard and filter to find a true reflection and what it means to be real and genuine.

My Thoughts:

“Rebellion, at some level, seems to be at the root many times.”  (p. 49)

This may seem like a strange place to begin a review, but Glenn Sasscer is addressing the root cause of sin itself.  He pulls apart the fact that the enemy has caused us to believe a lie about who we are – redeemed creations of a living God – and caused us to believe a false image, one that the world has caused to gain strength and blind believers.   Actually Sasscer’s book draws unbelievers into the truth of the gospel.  He challenges and teaches believers to take an honest look at God and His plans for our life.  To be transformed by the truth of God’s Word and see ourselves as God sees us!

If you read this book in its entirety, it is transformational on many levels.  Sasscer’s prayers and guidance to seek God in prayer is phenomenal!  I have actually asked God, as I’ve read, to teach me to pray more effectively.  Once again, God is placing an exclamation mark in my life through Sasscer’s book.  For you see, I’ve been studying a similar line of “training” with my church family for the past 12 weeks!  Isn’t God faithful to teach us His principles and His freedom of living for Him?

If you want a personal, transformational life study, I can recommend Glenn Sasscer’s  Not Who I Want to Be.

About the Author:

GLENN SASSCER is a minister, author, freelance writer, public speaker, and software trainer/consultant. He is ordained in Ohio and Michigan through the Alliance for Renewal Churches. Glenn has published novels, articles in numerous magazines, a religion column in a community newspaper, a Sunday school curriculum, and technical software manuals. He lives in Northwest Ohio with his wife and three teens.

The Amish Groom by Mindy Starns Clark and Susan Meissner - REVIEWED

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing The Amish Groom

About the Book:

New from bestselling authors Mindy Starns Clark and Susan Meissner, The Amish Groom (Book 1 in The Men of Lancaster County series) explores the men of an Amish community in Lancaster County, how their Amish beliefs play out in their unique roles, and the women who change their lives.

Born to an ex-Amish mother and an Englisch father, 23-year-old Tyler Anderson was raised as a military kid until the age of 6, when his mom passed away. His dad, shipping off to yet another overseas post, placed Tyler in the care of his Amish grandparents, an arrangement that was supposed to be temporary. It lasted a lifetime.

Rachel Hoeck is the young woman waiting for Tyler’s proposal. She senses that though he loves her and wishes to make a commitment to her and his Amish beliefs, part of him still wonders whether an Amish lifestyle is truly for him.

When an opportunity to connect with his father unexpectedly arises, a visit to California causes Tyler to question everything, including a future with Rachel. Will the new girl in his life, Lark, cause him to remain in the Englisch world? Or will he choose to be an Amish groom after all?

A poignant novel of hoping for romance and searching for identity, set in a beloved Amish community.

My Thoughts:

“Truly, my desire was not to know the world.  I just wanted to know my place in it.”  (p 166)

Tyler Anderson’s search for God’s will is as plain and straightforward as his Amish faith.  When he begins to feel restless, he approaches the leadership of his church about the unease in his heart.  He is advised to fast and pray and listen for God’s answer.  The answer comes in the form of  a phone call from his Dad – the one who left him on his grandparent’s Amish farm eighteen years earlier.

Tyler isn’t seeking to leave the Amish community that he loves – the people most dear to him.  Rather, he is seeking God’s will for his life. He is given time to explore his father’s Englisch world in a very up close and personal way.  He is given the chance to know his half-brother, Brady, and he learns the intimate details surrounding his mother’s death and his dad’s decision to allow him to grow up Amish.

Tyler’s look outside the Amish community is done in the biblical context of seeking God’s will, and to me, that makes it a relevant and powerful novel in many aspects.  I love the openness and honesty of the characters in the story, and I especially loved Lark’s character. This is a very multi-layered story and is told tenderly and with a prayerful and contemplative feel to it.  I was drawn in completely and came to care deeply for all of the characters.  Tyler Anderson is an honorable man throughout his search, and I believe readers will be left well satisfied with the conclusion of the story!

It is with pleasure I recommend The Amish Groom! This is the first in the Men of Lancaster County series.

About the Authors:

Mindy Starns Clark is the author of many books, which include the popular Smart Chick Mysteries, Whispers of the Bayou, Shadows of Lancaster County, and Under the Cajun Moon. In addition, Mindy’s plays and musicals have been featured in schools and churches across the United States.

Susan Meissner was born in San Diego, California, the second of three. She spent her childhood in just two houses.  Her first writings are a laughable collection of oddly worded poems and predictable stories she wrote when she was eight.

She attended Point Loma College in San Diego, and married her husband, Bob, who is now an associate pastor and a chaplain in the Air Force Reserves, in 1980. When she is not working on a new novel, she is directing the small groups ministries at The Church at Rancho Bernardo. She also enjoy teaching workshops on writing and dream-following, spending time with my family, music, reading great books, and traveling.

ACTS OF GOD MOVIE RELEASING ON DVD!! DON'T MISS THIS FILM!!

Acts of God Trailer from City on a Hill Productions on Vimeo.

Award-Winning Feature Film 

 - ACTS OF GOD -

Now Available on DVD

 

Created by City on a Hill and featuring author and pastor Bob Russell,

ACTS OF GOD asks challenging questions: 

“If God is good, why does He allow so much pain?  

How can a loving God allow suffering?”

Louisville, KY - If God is good and powerful, why do bad things happen? How can a loving God allow suffering?  Such questions weigh on nearly everyone at some point in their lives. The film ACTS OF GOD, available today on DVD, weaves the story of seven people whose lives are brought together through one tragic event.  ACTS OF GODdoes not offer easy answers, but together the characters find hope from God through relationships and their steadfast faith, as they realize that sometimes God gives us more than we can handle…alone.  

 

Created and produced by the team at City on a Hill, the makers of not a fan., gods at war, and most recently AHA, ACTS OF GOD, along with newly released ancillary products, offers a chance to explore hard questions and search the mysteries of God without offering platitudes or simplistic answers.

 

To bring the story to life on the screen, City on a Hill enlisted Bob Russell, author and retired pastor of Southeast Christian Church, one of the 10 largest churches in the country.  Pastor Russell helped oversee the messaging and create the resources, and he made his acting debut in the film as the role of the pastor.

 

Other materials already available from City on a Hill:

• ACTS OF GOD Small Group Study and Traveler’s Journal - A cinematic, six-episode small group study, ACTS OF GOD offers insight and hope as Pastor Bob Russell uses the biblical story of Joseph to explore how, in the face of personal pain or the suffering of those we love, we can trust in the Lord at all times. The journal allows for daily personal reflection and biblical engagement (rather than filling in blanks and looking for correct answers) leading up to small group discussions.

• Pastor’s Kit - Everything a pastor needs for a sermon series on suffering, including a data disc with 6 sermon outlines as well as artwork for promotion and a DVD with trailers and bumpers to use before messages and more. 
  

This set of resources is profound and personable. Suffering people can use it without feeling like their pain is being overlooked or downplayed.  Caregivers can see ways to show love and compassion.  Pastor Russell is a true shepherd, and these materials care for hurting sheep, whether they are in deep distress or daily discouragement. Using the story of Joseph from the Old Testament as a theme, Russell walks through what it means to question faith and obey while struggling.

ACTS OF GOD: Why Does God Allow So Much Pain, a trade book authored by Pastor Russell (Moody Publishers), is currently available in stores.

 

ACTS OF GOD DVD, Small Group Study, Traveler’s Journal and Pastor’s Kit are now available at online retailers, in bookstores and at store.cityonahillstudio.com

BOB RUSSELL: At just twenty-two years of age, Bob became the pastor of Southeast Christian Church. That small congregation of 120 members became one of the largest churches in America, with 18,000 people attending the four worship services every weekend in 2006 when Bob retired. Now, through Bob Russell Ministries, Bob continues to preach at churches and conferences throughout the United States, provide guidance for church leadership, mentor other ministers and author Bible study videos for use in small groups. An accomplished author, Bob has written over one dozen books. Bob and his wife of 47 years, Judy, have two married sons, Rusty and Phil. In his leisure time he enjoys playing golf and is an avid University of Louisville football and basketball fan. BobRussell.org

 

CITY ON A HILL:  City on a Hill is a team of creatively-gifted, passionate believers who develop powerful, cinematic story-driven media resources for ministry.  Their products – from video-driven small group studies and church-wide campaigns to faith-based films and more – stand apart in the industry because of their cinematic nature. City on a Hill resources are trusted by church leaders worldwide because they’re the highest quality, they’re easy to use and they reach right to the heart with their message.  They make effective ministry easier. City on a Hill: Story is the language of our hearts.  Media is the language of our times.  We use both to share Jesus with the World.  CityonaHillStudio.com

 

A Promise in Pieces by Emily T. Wierenga - REVEIWED

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing

About the Book:

A baby quilt touches many hearts as it travels from family-to-family and through generations.

After the end of World War II, Clara Kirkpatrick returns from the Women’s Army Corp to deliver a dying soldier’s last wishes: convey his love to his young widow, Mattie, with apologies for the missed life they had planned to share.

Struggling with her own post-war trauma, Clara thinks she’s not prepared to handle the grief of this broken family. Yet upon meeting Mattie, and receiving a baby quilt that will never cuddle the soldier’s baby, Clara vows to honor the sacrifices that family made.

Now a labor and delivery nurse in her rural hometown, Clara wraps each new babe in the gifted quilt and later stitches the child’s name into the cloth. As each new child is welcomed by the quilt, Clara begins to wonder whatever happened to Mattie—and if her own life would ever experience the love of a newborn. Little does she know that she will have the opportunity to re-gift the special quilt—years later and carrying even greater significance than when it was first bestowed.

My Thoughts:

“Courage to Care, Courage to Connect, Courage to Change.”  (p. 25)

The Nurse’s Creed Clara learned when she became a Nurse serving in the Army during WWII, becomes an accurate portrayal of her life in Emily Wierenga’s debut novel , A Promise in Pieces.   This novel is such a tender, poignant picture of Clara’s life from her headstrong young adulthood to her days as a woman full of years and grace.  I can honestly say this novel has touched something  deep within my heart.  I’ve witnessed forgiveness, grace, mercy and redemption in equal measure in my walk along the lif-path of Clara as she tells her story.

I don’t want to give ANYTHING away, but this novel is PACKED.  Every life circumstance is seen from an almost divine perspective.  Because it is told in remembrance  the reader is able to understand the fullness of the experience.  Each friendship, each loss, each victory, each challenge, all of it is literally woven into the tapestry of this story.  You will laugh.  You will cry.  You will sing.  You will rejoice.  Truly, as concise as this book is, it contains a lifetime that will impact your heart in a powerful way!!

The story never felt rushed.  Never felt scattered.  It is a rich, full story of Clara’s life that is…simply amazing!! And this is a debut novel folks!! There is more to come!! I can’t WAIT!!!

About the Author:

Emily Wierenga is a former editor, ghostwriter, freelance writer and staff journalist, a monthly columnist for The Christian Courier, and the author of Save My Children (Castle Quay Books, 2008), Chasing Silhouettes (Ampelon Publishing, 2012) and Mom in the Mirror (Rowman & Littlefield, 2013). Emily resides in Alberta, Canada. This is her first novel.

Lip Reading by Harry Kraus - REVIEWED

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Lip Reading David C. Cook (March 1, 2014) by Harry Kraus

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A Word from Harry:

I started writing my first novel during my last year of surgery training at UK. I was a chief resident, and started writing Stainless Steal Hearts in a call room at the Veteran's Administration Hospital in Lexington. It was a crazy time to write! I had a very demanding schedule, often spending days and nights in the hospital. I had two sons at that time, and I recognized the wisdom in my wife's urging: "Now doesn't seem the right time for this dream."

My experience as a writer is far from typical. Having received my formal training in biology and chemistry and medicine, my only preparation for a writing career was a love for reading. The longest thing I'd written before my first novel was a term paper in undergraduate school. My first novel was accepted by Crossway Books and published in 1994, and it wasn't until after I had FOUR published novels that I even opened a book of instruction about the craft of writing fiction. This is not what I recommend to others! Yes, I was successful, but I was bending the "rules" without knowing it. I had a natural talent for plotting, but I realize my initial success may have stunted my growth as a writer. I'd have made faster progress if I'd have gone to the fiction teachers sooner.

I have three sons: Joel, Evan, and Samuel. Look closely in all of my books and you'll see them there. My lovely wife, Kris, provides the basic composition for all those beautiful, athletic, dedicated women in my novels.

ABOUT THE BOOK

She Could Save Millions, or Save Herself

She just needs a little longer. She’s really close. Dr. Rebecca Jackson, a medical researcher, stands on the verge of a breakthrough that will transform medicine. But she soon discovers the reason behind the miraculous progress in her research, and it leaves her with a nearly impossible choice . . . and little time to decide. More than her research is at stake. And more threatens it than this latest revelation. Something she’s tried hard to cover up. There is a high cost to some things in medicine and it’s not always the patient who pays. Can Rebecca find the faith and wisdom she needs to make the right call? The clock is ticking and the pressure is on.

My Thoughts:

“And maybe we don’t see the message behind the pain.  Maybe God is simply trying to redirect our attention toward Him.”  (Noah to Becca)

At the point Noah speaks these words to Becca both she and Noah have suffered their share of pain, broken dreams and redirection.  God’s work has tenderized Noah, while Becca has driven herself deep within her career and away from the pain of relationship with God or anyone who follows Him.  Noah and Becca are both world renowned scientists on the brink of a life altering discovery.  They both need the knowledge the other possesses.  What neither ever anticipated were the pressures and absolute deadlines that were about to be placed before them.  Both will be called to make decisions that will change the eternal destination of many!

Harry Kraus fascinates me because he is both a surgeon and a fiction writer.  He has devoted his life to serve others, and God has blessed him with the ability to share intense medical thrillers with a broad reading audience.  Lip Reading is the best yet, and it contains so many twists and turns until you are literally left gasping for breath through the final chapters.  I don’t know when the stakes have been any higher or the end result any more satisfying!!

When I read the opening chapters I never dreamed the circumstances would be so personal or the consequences so grave.  I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the way Kraus weaves in true medical scenarios throughout the story that both fascinate and terrify the readers with their reality.  You don’t want to miss Lip Reading!!  It is absolutely fantastic!!

If you would like to read the first chapter of Lip Reading, go HERE.

River Peril by Susan K. Marlow - REVIEWED

About the Book:

Jem Coulter thinks his family is just on a sightseeing trip to the big city of Sacramento. Then armed bandits hold up the stagecoach for the secret stash they’re carrying: gold for the Union Army fighting the distant Civil War! Suddenly war isn’t so far away; it’s right there on the road to Sacramento, with Jem’s father, the sheriff of Goldtown, fighting against the rebel army’s Knights of the Golden Circle.

When the family finally reaches the city, they think they’re safe at last. Setting out to see the sights, Jem, his sister Ellie, and their cousin Nathan make a new friend. But is Henry the pal they think he is? With a father who is a die-hard Confederate, could Henry be in cahoots with the thieves?

River of Peril gives readers ages 8 to 12 the fast-moving, exciting adventure they’ve come to expect in this series, as well as a glimpse into the history of post–Gold Rush and Civil War life in 1860s California, with stagecoaches, steamboats, stowaways—and lots of gold!

My Thoughts:

“Boilers are tricky things.”  (p. 65)

Stage wagon bandits, top secret gold shipments and the teeming city of Sacramento, California are among some of the many things that fill the Coulter family’s world in the fourth book of the Goldtown Adventure series – River of Peril.  Once again, Susan Marlow cleverly ties together many strands of a story line that leaves Jem Coulter and his family perilously close to and among many dangerous people and places.  I was thoroughly entertained at the intricate plot twists and the fast paced story telling.

I am well beyond Marlow’s target age group – boys between the ages of 9-12 – but a well-told story is not limited by age!  It thrills my heart to know that there are such wholesome, entertaining and adventuresome books for young boys!

You can read my review of the third book in the series HERE.  I would encourage folks to purchase this set of books for the young readers in your life and to consider donating a set to your local library as well.  It would make a sound investment in the future of young readers!

Roasted Rattlesnakes!  What are you waiting for!? 

About the Author:

Susan K. Marlow has an imagination that never stops! Whether she’s writing books, teaching writing workshops, or sharing what she’s learned as a homeschooling mom, she’s always on the lookout for a new story. The author of the Circle C Adventures and the Circle C Beginnings, Susan enjoys relaxing on her fourteen-acre homestead in the great state of Washington.

Canyon Danger by Susan K. Marlow -REVIEWED

About the Book:

Jem Coulter’s pa, the sheriff of Goldtown, is away on a trip to deliver a prisoner to Sacramento, and he has left Jem in charge of the ranch—along with Aunt Rose, that is.

No sooner is the sheriff gone then trouble starts—a dead calf, a mysterious stranger, and then Pa’s horse, Copper, and his prize rifle are stolen. And Pa’s deputies seem unconcerned.

Jem and his cousin Nathan find Copper’s tracks end at a dark canyon up in the hills. Jem remembers an old Indian legend Strike-it-rich Sam is fond of retelling about people disappearing and no one ever seeing them again. What is the real story of the canyon of danger? Have thieves found the perfect hideout?

Readers ages 8 to 12 will be entertained by the adventurous spirit and historical lure in this fast-moving series that teaches about life in the post–Gold Rush days of 1860s California. Quick-paced plots and unforgettable characters make these books fun for the whole family.

My Thoughts:

“Find Copper?  Or shoot the wolf?  Oh, wait. I can’t.  On account of the rifle was with Copper.”  (p. 57)

Twelve-year-old Jem Coulter gets himself into quite the mess in Susan K. Marlow’s young adult book, Canyon of Danger. This is the third installment in the Goldtown Advertures series, so it was my first introduction to his life in Goldtown, but I can tell you now, that I can’t wait to go on another adventure with this winsome young man!  He dad is the sheriff of the town, and he has left Jem to act as the man of the house while he is away.  In short order, he loses or misplaces several important items and then experiences a frightening catastrophe trying to keep the cattle protected from a wolf. 

His curiosity combined with a sense of responsibility proves to be the catalyst that lands him in a very precarious and dangerous place toward the end of the story.  Apparently Jem is prone to such adventures as being trapped in a mine is referenced a couple of times.  I am thankful the townsfolk and his family know him well enough to have a fit of vapors if he goes missing for any length of time!

Marlow has completely captured the adventurous spirit of young boys!  I love the pace of the story, the realistic characters and life circumstances, the loving family – everything!  This is a wholesome adventure tale for young readers, and I am happy to recommend it to you! 

Please join me again tomorrow for a look into the next book in this great series!

About the Author:

I started writing stories when I was ten years old. I never planned on becoming a published author. I just liked writing stories. But eventually others found out about my secret "writing" and encouraged me to submit.

I love to teach. I taught in Christian schools before I home schooled. After twenty years, I finished home schooling but find myself "back in the saddle" as I help other home schooling families, including my grandchildren.

The Queen's Handmaid by Tracy L. Higley REVIEWED

About the Book:
From the servant halls of Cleopatra’s Egyptian palace to the courts of Herod the Great, Lydia will serve two queens to see prophecy fulfilled.

Alexandria, Egypt 39 BC

Orphaned at birth, Lydia was raised as a servant in Cleopatra's palace, working hard to please while keeping everyone at arm's length. She's been rejected and left with a broken heart too many times in her short life.

But then her dying mentor entrusts her with secret writings of the prophet Daniel and charges her to deliver this vital information to those watching for the promised King of Israel. Lydia must leave the nearest thing she’s had to family and flee to Jerusalem. Once in the Holy City, she attaches herself to the newly appointed king, Herod the Great, as handmaid to Queen Mariamme.

Trapped among the scheming women of Herod’s political family—his sister, his wife, and their mothers—and forced to serve in the palace to protect her treasure, Lydia must deliver the scrolls before dark forces warring against the truth destroy all hope of the coming Messiah.

My Thoughts:

“A flutter of something tickled her belly – apprehension, excitement.  Destiny?”  (p. 97)

Tracy Higley has left me with my mouth gaping this time!! WOW!!  Truly, she is the master of historical fiction!  She takes an obscure palace servant – Lydia – and builds a story that is intense from the beginning.  Danger, drama, complex relationships….and it builds and builds….it builds until you think to yourself, “There is no way this will work out!”  And then….the entire picture slowly comes to light and you are blown away!  I mean, this is a very well thought out, historically accurate, complex story line that brings ancient history to brilliant light!  I love it!!

Lydia captures my heart from the beginning, because it is blatantly clear that she has struggled with the lack of history surrounding her very existence.  Her deepest longing is to know who she is and where she came from.   Just at the moment when she begins to catch a glimpse of her past, her destiny beckons her  - or rather, violently shoves her – into her future.  Although struggle, violence and dark emotions surround Lydia’s character, Higley beautifully reveals  God’s sovereignty in the path of her life’s purpose.  I think that’s what intrigues me most.  It is just beautifully woven throughout the story, and when the truth grabs you….well,  you are left with your mouth gaping at the brilliance of the truth.

I’m a long-time fan of Tracy’s work, and The Queen’s Handmaid is truly one of her most brilliant works!  Her passion to discover the history that surrounds every event on the planet is palpable.  She gets better and better with each novel!  I will always be a fan!  Bravo!!

About the Author:

Tracy L. Higley started her first novel at age eight and has been hooked on writing ever since. She has authored many novels, includingGarden of Madness and So Shines the Night. Tracy is currently pursuing a graduate degree in Ancient History and has traveled through Greece, Turkey, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, and Italy, researching her novels and falling into adventures. 

See Tracy's travel journals and more at: tracyhigley.comtracyhigley.com

What Follows After by Dan Walsh - REVIEWED

About the Book:
In 1962, life was simple, the world made sense, and all families were happy.
And when they weren't, everyone knew you were supposed to pretend.
For the past year, Scott and Gina Harrison have been living a lie. While they show up at family get-togethers in the same car, they've actually been separated for over a year. To keep up the charade, they've even instructed their sons, Colt and Timmy, to lie--to their grandparents, their teachers, and their friends.

Colt, for one, has had enough, so he hatches a plan. He and his little brother will run away from their Florida home, head for their aunt's house in Georgia, and refuse to come home until their parents get back together. But when things go terribly, terribly wrong, Scott and Gina must come to grips with years of neglect and mistrust in order to recover their beloved sons, their love for one another, and their marriage.

In this emotional story, bestselling author Dan Walsh takes you on a journey to rediscover the things that matter most in life--love, truth, and family. With profound insight into the heart of a hurting child, he reminds us that a time will come to look back on hard times and smile, because we'll know that what follows after . . . is not what we expected at all.

My Thoughts:

“Can you spend time there without dredging up the past?  Can you replace all the fear and pain with something positive?  ‘Cause that’s what it’ll take.”  (Elaine to Colt)

Dan Walsh successfully takes readers back to the year 1962.  Actually, the story is a remembrance of one of the main characters, but the majority of the novel takes place in 1962.  Scott and Gina Harrison’s world had begun to implode months before the Cuban Missile Crisis occurred.  The fallout of their problems descended on their two sons, and the choices that were made on the Fall morning of October 22, 1962 literally exploded in the face of the entire family.  The brunt of the choices made fell squarely upon the hearts and minds of Colt and Timmy, but the end result of their choices transformed the entire family in ways they never imagined possible.

Walsh’s novel is not only nostalgic, but takes a timeless look into the heart of relationships at many different levels.  Scott and Gina’s relationship undergoes the most intense scrutiny, but the relationships between friends and family are also honestly examined.  The result of this honest scrutiny is transformational and solid.  Scott’s words to Colt  summarize the lessons learned:

“No one fixes broken things better than God.”  (Scott speaking to Colt)

The lessons were not easy nor painless, but the evidence of God’s healing touch remained upon the family for generations.  Be encouraged……be entertained…pick up your copy of What Follows After today!

About the Author:

Dan Walsh is the bestselling author of several books, including The Unfinished Gift, The Discovery, and The Reunion, as well as The Dance and The Promise with Gary Smalley. He has won three Carol awards, and three of his novels were finalists for RT Book Reviews Inspirational Book of the Year (2011-2013). Dan lives with his wife in the Daytona Beach area, where he's busy researching and writing his next novel. Visit www.danwalshbooks.com for more.