EVA KROON PIKE APPEARS TODAY ON CORNERSTONE TV'S REAL LIFE

Singer/Songwriter Promotes Current CD, Love Is All About You,  With Interview And Performance On Flagship Show

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (June 30, 2014) -Singer/songwriter Eva Kroon Pike will appear as a guest today on Cornerstone Television Network's flagship show, Real Life. In addition to her interview with Anna Frye and Amanda Brougher, co-hosts of Real Life, Pike also performs two songs to promote her current CD, Love Is All About You.   "Being at Cornerstone was such a great experience and memory for me," Pike says. "The staff and volunteers were more than wonderful and treated us like family! It was an honor to share my music and testimony. I'm praying that as my music airs on Cornerstone that others will have hope and joy through the songs God has given me." Pike taped the segment during a recent trip to the Cornerstone Television Network headquarters. While there, she also appeared live on Real Life and taped several performances that have been airing on Cornerstone programming during the past two months. Viewers can watch the broadcast of Pike's appearance at 9 a.m. E.T., followed by rebroadcasting at 1 p.m., 8 p.m. and 1 a.m. E.T. or online at ctvn.org/watch-live.

About Cornerstone Television Network: Cornerstone Television Network is a viewer-supported ministry that reaches 5.8 million homes in the U.S. and and throughout the Western Hemisphere. Airing 24 hours a day, seven days a week, Cornerstone Television Network programs are broadcast to more than 100 affiliate stations nationwide through SkyAngel and Glorystar, as well as online at ctvn.org. About Eva Kroon Pike "Music is my passion," says Eva Kroon Pike, who has been singing since age 3 and also plays the flute, guitar and keyboard. During her career, Pike has performed in front of thousands of people and has shared the stage with the likes of Anne Graham Lotz, Mark Harris, Babbie Mason and Third Day. Pike's ministry, she says, is about "spreading the Gospel, one song at a time." In her testimony, Pike shares her confidence that God has a plan for her life and that He chose, through her adoption as an infant, a very special family for her to grow up in to learn life's lessons. Her ministry is to point people to her loving Father who sent His Son to die so that everyone who believes in Him will live eternally. Pike states in her song, "Grace That Chose Me," which focuses on the theme of adoption, "So, if I'm anything close to what I'm meant to be, I owe it to the hands of Grace that chose me." Pike's current EP, Love Is All About You, produced by six-time Dove Award winning producer and songwriter Don Koch (producer for Avalon, 4HIM, and many others; songwriter credits include classics "In Christ Alone," "Adonai" and "Mercy Said No"), was released in 2013. It is the singer/songwriter's fourth recording project. Her current single is "Not Miss A Thing."   Pike's current video, "Grace That Chose Me," has been featured at various events, including the Florida Baptist Convention. Pike, who has experienced firsthand the blessings of being adopted into a loving Christian home, is an outspoken advocate for adoption. She has partnered with the Florida Baptist Children's Home, a Christ-centered organization that provides services for abused, neglected, and orphaned children, where she helps to promote the organization's adoption and other ministry services to hurting children and families. Pike and her husband, Jonny, live in Central Florida with their two young sons.  For more information about Pike, visit evakroonpike.com.

A View from Jessica Dotta's Window - Mark of Distinction!

Jessica Dotta is midway through her first trilogy, and she has made a stellar entrance into the world of Christian Fiction!  Mark of Distinction takes the reader deeper into the intricacies of England’s Regency society.  Julia enters a world quite foreign to anything she’s ever known, and it is there she discovers an eternal truth she wasn’t looking for.  Join me as I discuss this series, and Julia’s journey into the depths of a society rife with deception, intrigue and danger!

There is a vast difference between societal standards in England’s Regency era and the 21^st century.  (or is there?)  Tell us about your fascination with this era and the constraints of the higher end of society – especially on women.

It wasn't my original intent to write a story that highlights the lack of woman's rights in this era. Born of Persuasion was the first novel I ever wrote and towards the end of writing my first draft, I started to research at how precarious of a position my heroine was facing. It radically changed what I planned to do with the story. The more I researched the more awful and fascinating the story became.

The value system that the Regency, Victorian and Edwardian era operated with required a lot of trust and faith in the men one was marrying. Jane Austen was aware of this; the more you understand the legal ramifications, the more you see how truly harrowing her villains are.

Taking what I know can be true in human nature today and combining it with the legal ramifications of that era, I did my very best to keep The Price of Privilege accurate to what likely would have happened to Julia.

 

Julia Elliston’s tale is particularly difficult in the second book of your trilogy as she is forced to submit to train for her perceived role in society.  Her training seems particularly difficult because of the conflict that exists between her father and her “sponsor”.  What research was required to create such elaborate character dynamics?

Julia's sponsor is Lady Beatrice, the mother of Lord Pierson's deceased wife. Our choices ripple out and affect others, whether for good or bad. What happened years ago between the pair is now coming around again to haunt Roy, just when he's now in the position of desperately needing her help.

The tension between the pair arose naturally when I realized Julia needed a sponsor. I keep true to my character's history once they're "born." I knew immediately that Roy had burnt most of his bridges and that only woman of status in his life qualified to oversee Julia was someone he'd had a lifelong war with. Life naturally unfolds the law that we reap what we sow. We don't often discuss it, but so do our children and often times their children.

One of the themes I'm drawn to again and attain is how important our decisions are; that our lives are intricately woven together and the choices made today continue to bear weight on others for years to come.

Were there real-life examples of these difficult financial alliances to draw upon?  Or is all of this straight from your vivid imagination?

The dynamics of their relationship didn't come about as much from research as it did from my understanding of human nature. What does it look like when two people who've nursed bitterness against each other are forced into an alliance—where the weaker one now has the upper hand. 

What insight do you hope readers will glean from this look into a decidedly patriarchal societal structure and its impact on the role of women?

I don't know if I have an agenda for the reader as much as I've allowed the story to take the paths that seem most realistic to me. The horrifying stories I've read of what it was like for some women to live in this society makes me far more sympathetic to their plight than I formerly had been.

In Disney's Mary Poppins movie there's a song that exemplifies the subconscious attitude that I've run across in research (and occasionally in modern times). In the scene, Mrs. Banks, the children's mother, comes home elated and singing about woman's suffrage while the nanny is trying to get a word in because she's quitting due to Mrs. Bank's children's naughty behavior.

I grew up hearing the message that woman suffragists ruined society—that they (especially when combined with the sixties) destroyed the traditional home and our society along with it. That argument seemed reasonable, at least until I wrote this series and followed the natural course of Julia's story.  Then I understood and saw better what an amazing gift women from the past gave us. One look at the way women are treated in other places in the world is enough to make their incredible gift clear.  

I realize that God ordained men to be the head of the household, but truly believe this glimpse into Julia’s world is a very twisted example of God’s intent.  How did you develop such a strong father-figure, and what inspired his obsessive compulsive behavior when it came to being on time for everything?

I'm glad you set up the question this way. Yes, it is a twisted example of God's intent. I'm passionate about not setting up simplistic situations about God in story. Simple situations tend to have simple answers—such as, just trust and give it to God and all will be well. Ultimately, though, I believe it opens doors of doubt in people later because it lends to the idea that there's a formula to follow.

But life is so much more complicated than that, and the things that erode faith are so much more complicated. Our relationship with God is unique and our circumstances are unique. What if someone finally trusted and gave their whole life over to God and became utterly ruined? Then what does one think, then?  Or feel? How would it look to remain in trust, even when all truly is lost? Those are the stories I'm passionate about.

So, yes. Lord Pierson is not an ideal father. God set Adam over Eve in order to give humanity a picture of the relationship of Jesus to the church—but those like Lord Pierson destroy the picture. What do we do with that? When should Julia obey or disobey to protect herself? How much do we need to protect ourselves, verses how much in life doesn't really matter and can be relinquished anyway? Those are the truth-life struggles that I want to spotlight and fuel courage and faith to.

As far as developing my characters, they tend to walk onto the page without my help. I write them, and as I do so, I learn about them. I'll fill out character charts once I finish a m/s in order to know them a bit better.

Isaac is another intriguing male role that seems to be a bit of a rebel – as is Julia.  Where was this character inspired?  Why is his presence in Julia’s life so necessary? (other than he keeps her sane!)

The way Isaac entered the story on his own. I never planned on him in the series, but he just stepped onto the page with authority and calmness, which surprised even me. (I'm a seat-of-the-pants writer.) He does, however, represent an allegorical role in the novel, so he has certain rules his character must abide by. I'm working on the author letter for the last book where I go into detail on Isaac.

I realize this is the second in a trilogy – so you already know how the story ends.  What stage are you currently in with the final book? 

I’m very excited about the last book in this series! It's handed in and has been accepted. Its word count was high and I'm still expecting editorial work back, but I'm nearly finished with this series. It's been a decade-long effort, so I'm excited.

Your first book contract was to complete a trilogy.  Are there any single books in the works for future publication?

Yes, I have several stories growing in my mind. Some have waited years to be written.

Do you plan to write any fiction in modern day, or do you think you will continue in the historical genre for a while?  

If I write a story in the modern-day setting, it most likely would be for a children's story I've had in mind. But even that would likely be set in the 1950's. I do plan on continuing in historical context for adults, and historical with a touch of speculative for YA books I have in mind.

Can you describe your writing schedule for us?  You work as a publicist as well, so what does a day in your life look like in regard to writing?

It's a tough schedule. Right now I’m not actively taking on any PR jobs, though I do advise a bit. It's hard having two creative jobs. One sort of creativity zaps the other. While I finished the third book of this series, I worked overnight, caring for the elderly. It allowed me large spaces of time to work during the day. I've recently taken a retail job that has benefits, something I'm looking forward to having again.

During this season, I'm also prayerfully considering starting a non-profit organization with my best friends that would minister to the isolated, hurt and lonely in my local community. 

Wasted Prayer by Greg Darley

About the Book:  (from Thomas Nelson)

Faith without works is dead. Prayer without action is wasted.

What would your life look like if you stopped praying about God’s will and just did it instead? How would your church look if it spent as much time serving as it spent praying about serving?

The truth is, sometimes when you think you’re praying, you’re really just procrastinating. And when you think you’re asking that God’s will be done, you’re really telling him no. In times that call for action, prayer can be disobedience in disguise. Wasted Prayer uncovers the ways we use prayer to dodge responsibility for the work God has assigned us.

Complete with punch-in-the-gut biblical exposition that will help get you off your knees—and out of your chair—Wasted Prayer will provide you with the jolt you need to start living like a Christian, instead of just praying like one.

It’s time to stop praying and start doing.

About the Author:

Greg leads International Justice Mission’s (IJM) College Mobilization team working to equip college students to grow in their understanding and passion for God’s call to seek justice. His team oversees hundreds of IJM Campus Chapters, the Stand For Freedom campaign, and the North Star Conference. He is a frequent speaker at events, conferences and churches.

He is the author of Passion Is Not Enough and the upcoming title Wasted Prayer. Greg loves launching creative ideas, including the non-profit organizations World Causes and Backstage Leadership. He lives outside Washington D. C. with his wife and two children.

Rival Hearts by Tara Randel - REVIEWED

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Rival Hearts Abingdon Press (June 17, 2014) by Tara Randel

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Tara Randel has enjoyed a lifelong love of books, especially romance and mystery genres, so it didn't come as a surprise when she began writing with the dream of becoming published. After finding Romantic Times magazine in a bookstore many years ago, she found information about writing organizations. Soon after, she joined Romance Writers of America. She located the local RWA chapter and immediately attended her first meeting. There was no stopping her after that!

Through Tampa Area Romance Authors, Tara learned all about the business of publishing, starting with the craft of writing to behind the scenes of publishing. She served as contest coordinator for four years and served as President for one year, enjoying the organization and the lasting friendships made there.

When not writing, Tara owns a business with her husband and stays busy with her two daughters. She lives on the West Coast of Florida, where gorgeous sunsets inspire the creation of heartwarming stories, filled with love, laughter and the occasional mystery. Enjoy!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Molly Henderson and Ben Weaver have been rival magazine writers for the same publishing group for years. When both come up for the same promotion, they find themselves in an unexpected competition to win the spot. Molly, editor of Quilter’s Heart, and Ben, editor of Outdoor Adventures, must switch roles, each working for the other for one month, then submit an article at the end of their quests.

Can girly-girl Molly survive the outdoor adventures that Ben has planned? Can Ben navigate the perils of the social dynamics of quilting events without destroying a valuable quilt in one short month? More importantly, in this he-said, she-said situation, will Molly and Ben give in to their attraction and fall in love, no matter who wins?

My Thoughts:

“The human heart withstood so much of life’s victories and disappointments.  The shared experiences of life would be the focal point, the heart and soul of the quilt.”  (p.55)

This statement truly captures the heart and soul of Tara Randel’s addition to the Quilts of Love series - Rival Hearts.  Both Molly Henderson and Ben Weaver have experienced many victories and disappointments before being placed as rivals for the position of editor and chief of Master’s Publisher’s newest magazine endeavor.  Neither knew each other well enough to know that their month-long rivalry would teach them a lot about each other and their own hearts.  Even though relationship begins to blossom between them, they are both stubborn enough to resist that pull toward each other.  That pull ceases to exist entirely once Molly’s quilt is stolen just prior to the exhibition!

This was my first exposure to Tara Randel’s writing, and I have to say I was really drawn to her characters and her story!  The Quilts of Love series has offered a huge variety of stories along the way, and Rival Hearts is an especially sweet addition.  I think readers will enjoy the rivalry between the two main characters – especially as they begin to realize that they are aware of their growing attraction to one another. The contrast creates a tension that drives the story forward.

The conclusion to the rivalry is both realistic and satisfying.  I look forward to reading more of Randel’s work! 

If you would like to read the first chapter of Rival Hearts, go HERE.

Four Weddings and a Kiss - REVIEWED!

About the Book:

Spitfire Sweetheart by Mary Connealy

Maizy Place is an unruly tomboy. When she causes an accident, injuring neighbor Rylan Carstens, she becomes his unlikely caregiver. Rylan has never noticed how pretty his infuriating neighbor is, and he never expected to fall in love.

Love Letter to the Editor by Robin Lee Hatcher

Molly Everton is the outspoken daughter of the town newspaper's owner. When her father brings in an outsider to be editor, she tries to drive him out of town. But Jack Ludgrove is not intimidated. He's resolved to change Molly's mind about him---as an editor and as a man.

A Cowboy for Katie by Debra Clopton

Katie Pearl is uninterested in men and love. But she needs help on her ranch and hires Treb Rayburn, a wandering cowboy looking to make a buck. Will Treb change Katie's mind?

Courting Trouble by Margaret Brownley

Grace Davenport is either the unluckiest woman alive---or a killer. When her third husband is found dead, Grace is arrested. Attorney Brock Daniels isn't interested in the case---until he meets Grace. Only a miracle will prove her innocence, but the joining of two lonely hearts may be their saving grace.

My Thoughts:

Gifts of truth:

“But out here things are different.  A man is just as likely to end up cooking his hown food and washing his own clothes, so why shouldn’t a woman work at what I was fool enough to think of as a man’s job?”  (p. 70)

Rylan and Maizy both learn a tremendous amount of truth about what gives worth to a person’s life – about how speaking words of truth and life into a person’s heart makes all the difference.  Mary Connealy creates some rather ornery characters, as she is want to do, and then transforms them right before your eyes and gives you a satisfactory and realistic ending.  Connealy’s humor is the magic ingredient that endears her characters to the readers heart. 

“Without risk, there is no gain.  Without struggle, we do not grow and change.”  (p. 169)

Once again, gender roles create a tumult in the lives of the main characters in this story! Molly Everton is enraged when her father chooses to name Jack Ludgrove editor of the family newspaper.  Jack Ludgrove is amazed by the talent and business savvy that Molly reveals as they hammer out a working relationship.  Neither were prepared for their emotions to change the course of their emotions.  What began as a short-term solution evolves into something much more!  Get ready, readers!  This is a story worthy of the front page!

“Tragedy changed a person. It had changed him.  Suddenly he wished with all his heart that Katie Pearl would not have suffered loss such as she had.”  (p. 215)

Katie Pearl and Treb Rayburn’s story ranks my as my favorite in this very lovely collection of short stories.  Both main characters have suffered tragedy, and both almost miss the biggest blessings of their lives trying to keep their hearts protected from further hurt.  I love the way both begin to emotionally “thaw”, and then how the tentatively reach out for each other.  It is almost like watching a beautiful emotional waltz.  The ending is both touching and realistic.  Sigh.  I really liked this one!

“Saving Grace might well be your saving grace.”  (p. 325)

So says the wise pastor to Brock as he compares preachers’ and lawyers’ success rate. Grace Davenport and Brock Daniels story is probably the most layered plot twist of a story in this entire collection! I was amazed at how so many details were worked out believably in such a brief amount of time!  Excellent job, Margaret Bownley!  At first, I was a bit skeptical, I admit, but you really brought this to a satisfying and solid conclusion without making me feel I was skipping chapters.  A great read!

And where’s the kiss?  You will HAVE to read the epilogue to find it!  Bravo!!  Loved that!!  

Buy your copy HERE!

The Authors:

Margaret Brownley (Coauthor)

Margaret Brownley is a New York Times best-selling author and has penned more than twenty-five historical and contemporary novels. A Lady Like Sarah was a Romance Writers of America RITA finalist. Twitter: @margaretbrownly Facebook: MargaretBrownleyAuthor

Robin Lee Hatcher (Coauthor)

Best-selling novelist Robin Lee Hatcher is known for her heartwarming and emotionally charged stories of faith, courage, and love. The winner of the Christy Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction, the RITA Award for Best Inspirational Romance, two RT Career Achievement Awards, and the RWA Lifetime Achievement Award, Robin is the author of over 60 novels. Website: www.robinleehatcher.com Twitter: @robinleehatcher Facebook: robinleehatcher

Mary Connealy (Coauthor)
Mary Connealy writes romatic comedy with cowboys. She is a Carol Award winner, and a Rita, Christy, and Inspiratoinal Reader's Choice finalist. She is author of the best-selling Kincaid Brides Series, Lassoed in Texas Trilogy, Montana Marriages Trilogy, and Sophie's Daughters Trilogy. Mary is married to a Nebraska rancher and has four grown daughters and two spectacular grandchildren. Twitter: @MaryConnealy Facebook: maryconnealyfanpage

Debra Clopton (Coauthor)

Debra Clopton is a multi-award winning novelist first published in 2005 and has written more than 22 novels. Along with writing, Debra helps her husband teach the youth at their local Cowboy Church. Debra is the author of the acclaimed Mule Hollow Matchmaker Series, and her goal is to shine a light toward God while she entertains readers with her words. Visit her website at www.debraclopton.com Twitter: @debraclopton Facebook: debra.clopton.5

Yankee in Atlanta by Jocelyn Green - REVIEWED

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Yankee in Atlanta River North(June 1, 2014) by Jocelyn Green

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Jocelyn Green is a child of God, wife and mom living in Cedar Falls, Iowa. She is also an award-winning journalist, author, editor and blogger. Though she has written nonfiction on a variety of topics, her name is most widely recognized for her ministry to military wives: Faith Deployed. Her passion for the military family was fueled by her own experience as a military wife, and by the dozens of interviews she has conducted with members of the military for her articles and books, Faith Deployed: Daily Encouragement for Military Wives and its sequel, Faith Deployed...Again: More Daily Encouragement for Military Wives. She is also co-author of both Stories of Faith and Courage from the War in Iraq & Afghanistan and Stories of Faith and Courage from the Home Front (forthcoming, May 2012). Her Faith Deployed Web site and Facebook page continue to provide ongoing support, encouragement and resources for military wives worldwide.

ABOUT THE BOOK

When soldier Caitlin McKae woke up in Atlanta after being wounded in battle, the Georgian doctor who treated her believed Caitlin's only secret was that she had been fighting for the Confederacy disguised as a man. In order to avoid arrest or worse, Caitlin hides her true identity and makes a new life for herself in Atlanta. Trained as a teacher, she accepts a job as a governess to the daughter of Noah Becker, a German immigrant lawyer, who is about to enlist with the Rebel army. Then in the spring of 1864, Sherman's troops edge closer to Atlanta. Caitlin tries to escape north with the girl, but is arrested on charges of being a spy. Will honor dictate that Caitlin follow the rules, or love demand that she break them?


My Thoughts:

“He had shown her the way out before.  Perhaps He was doing so again.  But to be indebted to a man grated on her to no end.”  (p. 37)

Caitlin McKae is a strong character in Jocelyn Green’s latest novel Yankee in Atlanta. She winds up in Atlanta through a series of very unusual circumstance, and Atlanta in 1862 is not the safest place to be.

“War had taught him that God didn’t always show him the way around trial.  Sometimes, He showed him the way through them.”  (p. 43)

Edward Goodrich serves as a chaplain during the war, and yet he experiences race riots in New York – far from where the battle was raging in the South.  He also must navigate relational circumstances that are almost as tricky as the war itself.  As it turns out he is related to Caitlin’s family.

Then there is Ruby and Aiden, Noah and Ana…such a rich cast of characters!  And through their eyes you literally experience the horror that was the Civil War.  You will learn intimate details of the grueling life circumstances that many faced as war raged around them.   Noah has such a precious heart toward his daughter and faces such a struggle to decide which “side” he should serve on.  Then he must struggle against his feelings for Caitlin, and that just complicates things further.

There is such intricacy in this novel!  Every character, ever situation, they all, ultimately, are woven together to build toward a very satisfying conclusion.  But, be warned, the Civil War isn’t a pretty place to be, especially as it marched through Atlanta!  I think it is fascinating that there was a time when people in the South thought that Atlanta would be spared.  Really.  Fascinating!  And then to learn about the illnesses that felled many, and the sheer brutality of the living conditions of many is such a sobering reminder of the many, many, many lives that were lost to create our United States of America!

I don’t want to give away plot details, but suffice it to say, you are able to experience the separation, the heartache, and the emotional and faith discoveries on both sides of this war.  And you realize the willingness to give their life for the cause was very strong on both sides.  A more intriguing time in our nation’s history has not existed since…but the fact that Civil War once raged through this nation should make us all grateful for the sacrifices made for our freedom.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Yankee in Atlanta, go HERE.

Seeing The Voice of God by Laura Harris Smith

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (June 18, 2014) - Seeing The Voice Of God: What God Is Telling You Through Dreams & Visions, the new book from author and speaker Laura Harris Smith, has made a big impact on several major sales charts in the past week,

including Amazon, BarnesandNoble.com and Christianbook.com.

 

On Amazon, the book hit No. 1 in the U.S. and the U.K. ahead of some of today's most popular authors, including Joel Osteen, T.D. Jakes and Joyce Meyer.

 

In the U.S., Seeing The Voice Of God currently 

claims the top position on two Amazon sales charts: Most Wished For In Christian Charismatic, as well as Christian Charismatic Books. In both categories, the book tops a roster that also includes books from Osteen, Jakes and Meyer.

 

In the U.K., Harris Smith's book recently hit No. 1 in Amazon's Christian Living category, which also included Jakes' latest book in the Top 5.

 

The book, which was released in January from Chosen, a division of Baker Publishing Group,has also made the Amazon Best Seller lists in Japan  Germany, Austria, and Canada. 

 

Seeing the Voice of God has also landed in the top tier of BarnesandNoble.com and Christianbook.com's sales charts. At BarnesandNoble.com, Harris Smith's book has ranked No. 4 in the Religion and Inspiration category, with a repeat of Top 10 success at Christianbook.com, the third largest Christian book distributor behind Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

"All authors dream about their publisher contacting them with the news that they've made the Amazon Best Seller's List, and no matter who the author is, when the call comes, you're surprised," Harris Smith says. "To then find out that your book is No. 1 in several Amazon categories, and that your Kindle version is No. 2 alongside it, is indescribable. Discovering that it's also on the Amazon Best Seller's list in multiple countries is mind-blowing, as is seeing that it's the No. 1 Most Wished For Book in its category."

 

Harris Smith adds, "But to learn that out of all the 11-12 million books on Amazon--both secular and religious--that your new book ranks in the 500's, well, it's very humbling."

 

The flurry of chart-topping activity follows Harris Smith's recent media tour to the U.K., where she was interviewed on numerous media outlets and met with executives at Lion Hudson U.K., the U.K. distributor of Seeing The Voice of God.

 

"Laura Harris Smith is authentic; she really does live the life and her insight into this much 

overlooked area is both insightful and inspirational," says Simon Cox, Senior Brand Manager, Lion Hudson, U.K. "The book will take your relationship with God to a higher level as you learn to tune your eyes and ears to His voice. Every Christian should read it."  

In Seeing The Voice Of God, which was released in January, Harris Smith demystifies nighttime dreams and daytime visions, revealing the science behind the supernatural, giving believers a biblical foundation for making sense of what they see, and citing medical research on which vitamins and minerals improve dream recall. Chapters discuss how to discern if a dream is from God, the 10 most common types of dreams, how to understand if dreams are for the present or the future, and how to interpret dream symbols and imagery by using a comprehensive Dream Symbols Dictionary with more than 1,000 biblical definitions.

About Laura Harris Smith and Seeing The Voice Of God:

Laura Harris Smith founded Eastgate Creative Christian Fellowship with her husband, Pastor Chris Smith, and is the director for the Eastgate Creative Arts Conservatory. Harris Smith mentors young writers from all over the world with her online creative writing classes. An actress, playwright, poet and media dynamo, she has been a TV host on the 

Shop at Home Network and is the author of multiple books.

Harris Smith and her husband have six children and reside near Nashville, Tenn. For more information about Harris Smith andSeeing The Voice Of God, visit LauraHarrisSmith.com. 

Death Takes a Ride by Lorena McCourtney - Reviewed!

About the Book:
It's official. This case is above her pay grade--and Cate's in over her head.
Cate Kinkaid arrives at H&B Vintage Auto Restorations to give a friend a ride. But, as usual, trouble finds Cate even there--this time in the form of one dead man, one wounded man, and what appears to be a pretty obvious case of self-defense. 

Despite having been merely an unfortunate bystander, Cate finds herself sucked into the case. And the deeper she gets, the more she begins to suspect that the shooting in the H&B office may not have been as cut-and-dried as it appeared.

Bestselling and award-winning author Lorena McCourtney takes you on wild ride in this clever cozy mystery that will keep you guessing.

My Thoughts:

“Not even midnight yet, and already she’d turned into a PI pumpkin.”  (p. 261)

I met Cate Kincaid in Dolled Up To Die, and she is still my favorite PI!   I adore a good cozy mystery, and Lorena McCourtney uses a dog – a large, motorcycle-loving brute of a dog named Clancey – to add a unique touch of humor and attention-grabbing oddity to a rather unexpected murder mystery.  This case tumbles into Cate’s life much like the candle tumbles into the stack of napkins in one of the final scenes of the novel.  I guess that’s why I like her so much, because things tend to be a haphazard jumble most of the time. 

 

However, when things begin to come together, both in the murder mystery and her personal relationships, things happen in rapid succession with no guarantee all will end well for those involved.  Mitch, good ‘ole dependable, snarky Mitch, gets dragged into Cate’s messes in the strangest ways, and McCourtney uses this relationship to sprinkle a dash of romance into the mystery.  Just about the time I want to tell Mitch to dodge, dismiss and disengage from Cate’s life – something that in implied to be happening in this novel – he turns around and does something sweet to endear himself to my heart all over again.  He is a true keeper!

And the mystery is anything but safe!  There are some high stakes involved, and McCourntey casts a wide net for suspects.  As any good writer, she holds her cards close to her chest and has a rather dramatic and dangerous reveal at the end!

Once again, a very satisfying read!! I can’t wait to see what Cate stumbles into next!! And I really can’t wait to see what role Mitch will play after his attempt at a romantic cookout! SO FUNNY!!

About the Author:

Lorena McCourtney is the New York Timesbestselling and award-winning author of dozens of novels, including Invisible (which won the Daphne du Maurier Award from Romance Writers of America), Dying to Read, and Dolled Up to Die. She resides in Oregon. Learn more at www.lorenamccourtney.com.

A Deadly Business by Lis Wiehl with April Henry - REVIEWED

About the Book:

If the hours don't kill you, the accused just might.

Mia Quinn is a Seattle prosecutor working on high profile cases in the Violent Crimes unit while juggling the impossible demands of single parenthood. Her husband, Scott, was killed in a car crash that homicide detective Charlie Carlson now believes was no accident. Charlie’s instincts and professional record make it impossible for Mia to refute the evidence she’d rather not believe.

When the powers that be refuse to reopen the case, it’s up to Mia and Charlie to investigate, all the while trying to deny a growing attraction between them. Was her accountant husband really in league with nefarious criminals? And who is the young woman whose photo they find on his computer?

Uncovering the truth may hurt Mia in more ways than one.

My Thoughts:

“At my company we make decisions based on the bottom line.  The intention doesn’t mean squat.  The only thing that matters is the results.” (Wade Merritt)

Wade Merritt’s wife Tamsin was almost killed by a group of teenagers “fooling around.”  It is left up to Mia Quinn decide whether or not the boys will be tried as adults or juveniles.  While she gathers information to make this decision, she learns evidence in her own husband’s death that casts doubt as to whether or not he died in the automobile accident or whether or not he was murdered.  On top of everything else, it seems there are some mysterious loose ends in her deceased husband’s life that place she and her children in grave danger.

Lis Wiehl’s latest novel, A Deadly Business, is a book that grips you by the throat and never lets up!  The plot twists come fast and furious, and all too believable!  Just about the time you think you know who the real bad guy is, then you find out evidence to the contrary.  By the time the truth is revealed, you are just desperately praying everyone survives until the end of the novel!  Well, at least Mia, Charlie, Eli and the kids….the main players, don’t you know? 

This was the most fun I’ve had reading in quite some time!  What a blast!  Don’t miss this incredible series – The Mia Quinn Mysteries!  This is an incredible novel!

About the Authors:

Lis Wiehl is a New York Times best-selling author, Harvard Law School graduate, and former federal prosecutor. A popular legal analyst and commentator for the Fox News Channel, Wiehl appears weekly on The O’Reilly Factor, Lou Dobbs Tonight, Imus in the Morning, Kelly's Court, and more. Visit her website at www.liswiehlbooks.com Twitter: @LisWiehl Facebook: LisWiehl

April Henry is the New York Times best-selling author of mysteries and thrillers. Her books have been short-listed for the Agatha Award, the Anthony Award, and the Oregon Book Award. April lives in Portland, Oregon, with her husband and daughter.

The Lawman's Oklahoma Sweetheart by Allie Pleiter - REVIEWED

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing The Lawman's Oklahoma Sweetheart Love Inspired (June 3, 2014) by Allie Pleiter

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Enthusiastic but slightly untidy mother of two, Allie Pleiter writes both fiction and nonfiction. An avid knitter, harp player and non-reformed chocoholic, she spends her days writing books, doing laundry, running carpools and finding new ways to avoid housework. Allie grew up in Connecticut, holds a BS in speech from Northwestern University and currently lives in suburban Chicago, Illinois. The "dare from a friend" to begin writing eight years ago has blossomed into a career that includes numerous public speaking engagements, two books on parenting; Becoming a Chief Home Officer and Facing Every Mom's Fears and now novels for Steeple Hill Books. She is the mother of two children and, most recently, a Havanese dog named Bella.


ABOUT THE BOOK

When Katrine Brinkerhoff's cabin is attacked, only sheriff Clint Thornton's heroism saves her. She owes Clint her life—and her help catching the men responsible. All she has to do is trust in Clint's plan to protect her family. But she can't let herself care too deeply, not when her past carries secrets that would drive him away. 

Infiltrating the murderous gang is a dirty job, yet Clint is determined to see it through. The brigands will face justice—and they will never harm Katrine again. Clint would give his life to keep the beautiful settler safe…but will he be willing to risk his heart? 

Bridegroom Brothers: True love awaits three siblings in the Oklahoma Land Rush



My Thoughts:

“God is mighty fond of surprises.”  (p. 276)

I’m not familiar with the law practices of Oklahoma in 1889, but Clint Thornton’s style of infiltrating the Black Four gang isn’t much different from those of the 21^st century.  Lawmen like Clint have a subtle strength that enables him to do a great job protecting the people of Brave Rock, Oklahoma. When he rescues Katrine Brinkerhoff, he sets in motion a series of events that takes those he cares for into the lion’s den.  Can he protect those he loves?

Clint has struggles with his abilities.  He also struggles with secrets from his past. He doesn’t know that Katrine has shadows that haunt her as well.  These two must perpetrate another secret in order to break the choke hold of the Black Four gang upon their town.  It’s a frightening and complex trail these two must travel, and they must lead their friends and families, their fellow town folk to a level of freedom that has been stolen from them.  They must risk everything, and it costs their hearts a great deal.  They must place their complete trust in God, and that is not an easy thing for either of them to do.

Love Inspired has released a tale of tenderness, trial and tragedy in The Lawman’s Oklahoma Sweetheart.  It is a tale laced with a fragile unfolding of love and faith that will leave you well-contented. I am happy to recommend this novel!

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Lawman's Oklahoma Sweetheart, go HERE.

SCARY SUMMER NIGHTS SWEEPSTAKES!!

Eight of your favorite TNZ Fiction authors created eight stories—and if you match the authors to their stories, you might win a Coleman camping kit! http://bit.ly/1n4ZpZb #TNZSummerNights

Mark of Distinction by Jessica Dotta - REVIEWED

About the Book:
London is said to be the glittering jewel of society, a world unto itself—but to Julia Elliston it is a city of shadows. Her life is swiftly dissolving into scandal. And in Victorian society, even a whisper of scandal—substantiated or not—can be the death of a young woman’s reputation.

Now under the watchful eye of Lord Roy Pierson, one of most influential men in England, Julia begrudgingly accepts his protection. But Chance Macy’s power is far-reaching as well, and he is eager to assert his claim over her.

Thrust into society as the Emerald Heiress, Julia is the toast of London, a celebrated curiosity. But in reality she’s trapped between the clutches of two powerful men. Aided only by a gentleman whose intentions she prays she can trust, Julia must finally take control of her own fate—but outwitting one’s foe rarely goes according to plan


My Thoughts:

“It dawned on me once, as I stopped dancing and stood still amidst a swirling ballroom, that maybe they hadn’t forgotten – maybe they’d never known.”  (p. 259)

Julia realized a profound truth in this moment. 

“He knew I wouldn’t be able to resist this Bible.” (p. 234)

Just  prior to this, Julia realized an even greater truth.

The combined effect of these two truths in Julia’s life changes everything – for all time!

I say all of this to tell you that Mark of Distinction takes the reader deep within the world of intrigue, deception, and the tyrannical patriarchal structure of Victorian England.  If you thought the first installment of this superb trilogy was special….this second installment will steal your breath away time and time again!

Honestly,  my heart remained broken most of this novel.  Julia’s plight was so incredibly painful to watch.  Along the way, I fell in love with Isaac.  I understand why Julia couldn’t but still…the man is a saint!  The rest of this crowd needs to be disciplined severely!!  Lady Beatrice is positively evil no matter that her life circumstances have made her a bitter person.  I imagine that when Julia beheld this woman, she was able to see evidence of her worst fears.  I shuddered every time she appeared upon the page.

In short, every character is powerful in a unique way.  The entire cast of characters is brilliantly interwoven, and the secrets they keep are deadly in the worst sort of way.  You will NEVER see the end of the coming!! You will be amazed beyond amazement!!  Enter upon the journey today.  The Price of Privilege Trilogy is exquisite!!

About the Author:

Jessica Dotta has always been fascinated by England during the Regency and Victorian era. Her passion for British Literature fueled her desire to write in a style that blends the humor of Jane Austen and the dark drama of a Bronte sister. She lives in the Nashville area with her family and works as a freelance media consultant and publicist.

Kim Dexter Reaching - RELEASING JUNE 10th!!

Singer-songwriter Kim Dexter (formerly of Mayfair Laundry) is back with a brand new studio album, “Reaching,” in stores everywhere on June 10^thvia Nashville-based Elevate Entertainment. The worship-infused project is the follow-up to Dexter’s debut solo album, “So This Is It,” which spawned international radio airplay, extensive touring and television appearances.

Produced by Jerad Atherton, “Reaching” was recorded at Hollywood’s legendary EastWest Studios (Elvis Presley, Paul McCartney, Frank Sinatra) with an all-star cast of players that includes bassist Jonathan Ahrens (Jason Mraz, Jewel), drummer Aaron Sterling (Kelly Clarkson, John Mayer), and Dexter on keys.

“’Reaching’ is more of a worship project than anything I have done in the past, yet is still revealing of what God has been doing in my life,” says Dexter. “I perform a lot of concerts, lead worship at a lot of churches and also sing and speak at women’s conferences and retreats, so this album really has songs for all of those communities. I sing of God's unbelievable grace and mercy, which He continually pours out on us, and His daily salvation, knowing everything that touches my life has to first pass through the hands of God. Whatever I’m experiencing He's allowed and He will use it for my best. When we let go of everything, we can live in true freedom.”

Dexter’s first major foray into artistry came in the late ‘90s when she fronted Christian rock band Mayfair Laundry, who toured nationally opening for the likes of Switchfoot, Steven Curtis Chapman and Third Day. Dexter subsequently found success as a songwriter, penning tracks for Bryan Duncan, Nicole C. Mullen, Avalon’s Jody McBrayer, and multiple missions organizations. She also wrote the theme song for the immensely popular children’s series, “Bibleman.”

These days, Dexter resides in Orange County, California with her husband Paul (a Grammy-nominated producer, musician and fellow member of Mayfair Laundry) and their children Maggie and Hudson. The whole family frequently loads up the tour bus to experience adventures on the road together, while Kim shares her deeply personal songs and stories of survival, perseverance, courage and healing at various concert venues, churches, women’s conferences and retreats.

“My life is a story of miraculous grace, personally, within my marriage, and also with new creative opportunities,” says Dexter. “God has been there the whole time and I am a testimony that He can truly do anything.”

The root for Dexter’s inspirational well runs deep in various directions, first and foremost, with her love for Jesus and her family. Musically, her vast pool of muses includes faith-based powerhouses like Keith Green and Gungor, alongside mainstream favorites like Sarah McLachlan, The Fray and Ingrid Michaelson. Add in some of life’s simplest pleasures, like laughing with her children, green juice drinks and a long work out, coupled with wanting to stir the souls of audiences or address the enormity of suffering in the world, and Dexter emotes authenticity and inspiration at every turn.

“God is always pursuing us, reaching through darkness, loss, and human frailty to the depths of our hearts,” she says. “In response to this kind of love, I am reaching for more of Jesus and for the highest call He has placed on my life. I always lean on what it says in Philippians 3:13: ‘But one thing I do: Forgetting the past and reaching forward to what lies ahead’...”

For more information, visit www.kimdexter.com.

A Place in His Heart by Rebecca DeMarino - REVIEWED

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing A Place in His Heart Revell (June 3, 2014) by Rebecca DeMarino

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Rebecca DeMarino was born in Pensacola, Florida, the daughter of a Navy pilot. Her mother made a home for the family of six all over the map, including Virginia, Nevada, California, Washington, and Guam, before her parents put down anchor on a ranch in Oregon.

As the wife of a young Air Force officer, married life brought more travel. She relied on her mother’s example of how to make a home anywhere. Her three beautiful daughters were born in Florida, Alaska and Nebraska.

Retired after sixteen years with a major airline, she manages to fulfill her love of wanderlust with frequent family or research trips.

Rebecca grew up listening to her mother’s family lore of a great-grandfather from generations ago. Barnabas Horton sailed from England in the 1600’s, to Long Island, N.Y., on a ship called The Swallow. In 1999, after she found Horton Point, L.I., on a map, Rebecca and her mother made the journey to see the lighthouse named after their ancestor.

The legend goes that Barnabas brought a slab of blue slate with him from England, and had the epitaph he wrote himself engraved on it. The blue slate still exists in the Old Cemetery in Southold, L.I., with the Bible verse, “He being dead, still speaketh.” Much information was found about Barnabas, but none of his wife, save a mention in his will.

Her mother passed away in 2005, but Rebecca returned to Southold many times, drawn by her Puritan roots and English heritage. Each time she wondered about her ninth great-grandmother, a young woman who married a widower with two young boys and then followed them for the wilds of Long Island, leaving behind her home and family. What were her dreams? Her motivations? Her fears?

Rebecca’s historical romance novel, A PLACE IN HIS HEART, debuts with Revell, a division of Baker Publishing House, in June of 2014.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Anglican Mary Langton longs to marry for love. Puritan Barnabas Horton is still in love with his deceased wife and needs only a mother for his two young sons. And yet these two very different people with very different expectations will take a leap of faith, wed, and then embark on a life-changing journey across the ocean to the Colonies. Along the way, each must learn to live in harmony, to wait on God, and to recognize true love where they least expect to find it.

This heartfelt tale of love and devotion is based on debut author Rebecca DeMarino's own ancestors, who came to Long Island in the mid-1600s to establish a life--and a legacy--in the New World.

My Thoughts:

“An pain built in her chest, and ache for a hope, wherever it would be.”  (p. 165)

Mary Langston, and Anglican lady, who dreads the marriage to the son of one of her father’s business partners, could have never imagined the journey she was about to embark upon when she falls in love with the widowed, Puritan, baker of their hometown of London, England in 1630!  Yes, he needed a mother for his two boys, and yes, it was quite the challenge to pursue parental consent from Mary’s staunch Anglican father when he decides to explore courtship, but Barnabas Horton never imagined what he would face when he asked Mary to accompany him to the New World as his wife.

A Place in His Heart is a fascinating look into the day to day struggles faced by those brave men and women who left England to come to America in pursuit of religious freedom!  Rebecca DeMarino does a masterful job of drawing readers back into the 1600’s.  She strikes a great balance between the details of daily life and the relationships between her cast of characters.  This story has an emotional intimacy that causes you to pause and take a look at your own relationship with God, all the while becoming totally immersed in the lives of Mary, Barney,  and their two boys, Joseph and Benjamin!

A Place in His Heart is the first of The Southold Chronicles, and I am delighted to introduce you to this series!  Rebecca DeMarino debuts in the market with a stellar historical romance that is sure to capture the hearts of many readers!

If you'd like to read the first chapter of A Place in His Heart, go HERE.

Rebecca is hosting a Giveaway worth over $300.00 in prizes. There will be 8 winners! Scroll to the bottom of the post HERE to enter!!!!!