Exiting for a life change.....pardon the interruption!

Started a new job today, and I'm experiencing severe brain drain!  I'll be back with book reviews in a couple of days!  Thanks for your patience!!

The Deliverer by Kathi Macias

While this is the third and final book in the Freedom Series, I’m sure there are people who are just learning about it. Would you please share what prompted you to write these books on such topic as relevant and difficult as human trafficking? 

I was finishing up my previous fiction series for New Hope Publishers (the Extreme Devotion Series, dealing with the persecuted Church around the world) when Andrea Mullins (the publisher at New Hope) asked me what topic I wanted to tackle next. We discussed a few possibilities, and then she suggested human trafficking. I was aware of it and thought it was terrible but had no idea how widespread it was. I agreed to do some preliminary research and get back to her. When I discovered there are more than 27 million people held in various forms of human trafficking (sexual slavery, forced labor or military conscription, involuntary donation of body parts/organs) and that many of them are children (including an estimated 100,000—300,000 MINORS held in sexual slavery in the US today!), I was horrified. I was also convinced that I had to do everything possible to help educate others about this widespread horror and to call them to join the fight. Not only have I now written/released the Freedom Series on human trafficking, but I’m speaking on it everywhere/every chance I get.

What was your original objective in writing these books, Deliver Me From Evil, Special Delivery, and The Deliverer? And, what are you hearing back from people who have read the books? How are they taking action? 

Originally my plan was to see the books alert readers to this horrific crime and, hopefully, challenge them to get involved in fighting it some way. That seems to be happening, but on such a larger scope than I had imagined. The response from readers is overwhelming! Pastors have written to say they are challenging their entire church to get involved on some level, and I’m being invited to speak all over the country on this topic. I am thrilled to see the Light being shined in this terrible darkness at last! As for specific actions, pastors and civic leaders are inviting me (or others in this ministry) to come and speak to their congregations/groups to help educate them on this massive tragedy. Readers tell me they are posting about my books all over the net to help snag people’s attention. I’m getting invitations to speak on radio and TV as well. I’ve also been contacted by readers who are getting involved in setting up safe houses for rescued victims, which is a huge need. I was even contacted by the Department of Homeland Security and invited to participate in group conference calls on the topic. Overall, I’m thrilled at the way God is using these books to help sound the alarm and to “rescue the perishing.”

It seems there is always someone in your books who is an intercessor. Why is that important for you to include? 

This is vital to me, and as you said, I almost always include an intercessor in my novels. I know there were intercessors in my own life who prayed me through some incredibly dangerous and difficult times, and I appreciate those heroes of the faith more than I can express. Highlighting their importance in my books accomplishes two things: it enables me to honor those faithful intercessors who often get no recognition in this world, and it also calls others to get involved in intercession as well.

You write books as you often call them, parables with a purpose, on topics such as human trafficking, the persecuted church, illegal immigration, and your Christmas 2012 book is about homelessness. Some might call you an advocate. Why is it important for Christians, and the church as a whole, to discuss these issues?

You’re right that I call my novels “parables with purpose,” because I believe Jesus is our example and that’s what He told to His followers—parables with purpose. He didn’t just tell them “nice stories” to entertain them. He told stories that would grab them right where they lived, and then challenge them to change their hearts, their minds, and their lives. The Church has always been at the forefront of serious social change, leading the charge to abolish slavery for instance, and leading the charge on these other issues is right where the Church needs to be now. The first step is to discuss the issues, to make people aware of them, and then to call them to action. I believe gripping fiction is one of the most effective ways to do that.

Will you give us a glimpse, a taste of things to come -- without getting too far ahead -- of what’s in store for your next series and books on the horizon? 

In addition to the 2012 Christmas novel, Unexpected Christmas Hero, dealing with homelessness in America, I will be releasing a new series starting in January. The first of the three novels is called The Moses Quilt, and it deals with a contemporary interracial romance, set against the background of a quilt that tells the story of the courageous, faith-filled woman known as Harriet Tubman. A contemporary novel dealing with the issue of abortion will follow, with the first woman doctor in America, Elizabeth Blackwell, as our backdrop heroine. The final book will be built around the much beloved Fanny Crosby, as we deal with the issue of people with disabilities. That series is from New Hope Publishers, but I also have a book releasing in the Spring of 2013 from B&H Publishers called Last Chance for Justice. It’s part of the multi-author Bloomfield Series, and I’m very excited about it.

You also write a devotional blog. Can you tell us what the focus is and where we can find it? 

I started writing a weekly devotional several years ago, in response to a request from the then newly formed group CAN (Christian Authors Network). I sent it out as a group email and had about 40 recipients then. The devotional mailing quickly grew and expanded beyond the CAN group, with countless readers signing up to receive it. I also started posting it each week on my devotional blog (http://kathimacias.com/category/devotional-2/), which is part of my primary website (www.kathimacias.com), where you will also find my “Easy Writer” blog, which is more writing-related. (You can also sign up there to receive the weekly devotional in your inbox.) Over the years the devotional has been picked up by Crosswalk, Black Christian News, Latino Christian News (I offer it in Spanish as well as English), Believe.com, Christians in Recovery, etc., so the readership has mushroomed beyond anything I ever imagined. God is amazing, isn’t He?

Finally, we know you as an award-winning author, but you also enjoy speaking for women’s events, and other groups, as well. On what areas or topics do you focus your speaking presentations? How can a church or group find out more about having you speak for their event? 

I speak on various topics, including the issues I address in my books, but on other topics too. One of my most requested topics is “When Passion and Purpose Collide.” That, along with several other popular topics, can be found in the speaking section of my website (http://kathimacias.com/speaking/). To see my current speaking schedule and/or to explore the possibility of having me come and speak, just go tohttp://kathimacias.com/speaking/speaking-schedule/ and click on the Christian Speakers Services button to make contact. You can also see some of my speaking endorsements at http://kathimacias.com/speaking/endorsements/. 

For more opportunities for free copies of The Deliverer by Kathi Macias, please visit Facebook.com/CSSVBT.KathiMacias.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for posting the author’s interview and/or book review on my blog. This blog tour is managed by Christian Speakers Services (http://ChristianSpeakersServices.com).

The Reunion by Dan Walsh - REVIEWED - and CONTEST!

About the Book: (from Revell Publishing)

Everything lost can be found.

Aaron Miller knows a thing or two about loss. He's lost love. Dignity. Second, and even third, chances. Once honored for his heroism, he now lives in near obscurity, working as a handyman in a humble trailer park.

But God is a master at finding and redeeming the lost things of life. Unbeknownst to Aaron, someone is searching for him.

With deep insight into the human heart, consummate storyteller Dan Walsh gently weaves a tale of a life spent in the shadows but meant for the light. Through tense scenes of war and tender moments of romance, The Reunion will make you believe that everyone can get a second chance at life and love.

My Thoughts:

“…if only in my dreams.”  (p. 289)

Aaron Miller’s dreams are filled with regret, loss and tragedy.  However, Christ has transformed his life, and now, even though his living circumstances are humble, Aaron lives a life of quiet servitude that makes a huge difference in the lives of many people.  He is unaware of the miraculous things that are happening in the lives of people he has longed for - for years!

Dan Walsh is a master story teller who weaves life circumstances together in a very believable, profoundly moving way!  At first, you may feel as though you are reading a lot of different stories all at once. However, as the novel progresses, you begin to see the entire picture.  I imagine it is not unlike the way God looks at us as we weather the trials and temptations in this life!  And oh, what a beautiful picture Walsh paints of God’s mercy and grace!

The characters in this story have known pain and loss in varying degrees.  Aaron Miller’s life serves as a central character whose  presence just touches so many people!  I wish there were more Aaron’s in the world!  You will feel the same way once you read The Reunion.  Truly.  This is a very precious story!

About the Author:

Dan Walsh is the award-winning author of several books, including The Discovery andThe Reunion. A member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Dan served as a pastor for 25 years. He lives with his wife in the Daytona Beach area, where he's busy researching and writing his next novel.

For the for the next week, starting today and running till next Monday, September 17^th, Dan Walsh is celebrating the release of his new novel, The Reunion, with a 10-book giveaway contest! Five winners will each receive a signed copy of The Reunion, as well as his third novel, The Deepest Waters. (He’s  including this book because it was named a finalist for an ACFW Carol Award for book-of-the-year). Click on the link below to see how easily you can enter the contest!

http://danwalshbooks.com/the-reunion-book-giveaway-contest/

The Beginner's Bible App for iPad - now available from Zonderkidz

Grand Rapids, Mich, September 13, 2012: Zonderkidz has announced the release of The Beginner's Bible App for iPad, which has already garnered praise from critics including Craig Groeschel, pastor of LifeChurch.tv (http://www.lifechurch.tv/) and author of The Christian Atheist. The app is based onThe Beginner 's Bible, the bestselling storybook Bible of all time, having sold over 6 million copies since its release in 1989. Complete with stories, coloring pages, games, and audio, children six and under can enjoy their favorite Bible stories all by themselves.

" I was blown away by The Beginner' s Bible App," commented Groeschel. " As a parent and a pastor, I am constantly looking for ways to engage children with the Word. This app provides a fun way for kids to interact with the Bible using technology that they can relate to."

The Beginner 's Bible App was designed for young children to easily use themselves but will also be a valuable resource for parents wanting to participate as well. The illustrations have interactive elements that a child can manipulate using the touch screen.

" We are excited to offer this app that creates a fun way for kids to learn about the Bible," said Annette Bourland, Senior Vice President Zondervan Group Book Publisher. "The Beginner 's Bible is widely seen as the first Bible a child receives. In a digital world, it is a priority for Zonderkidz to offer a Bible geared for the youngest readers. "

"My children and I enjoyed reading the stories in The Beginner 's Bible App. They already knew what was coming in each story, but they loved reading it anyways and playing with the illustrations that accompany each story," said Lori Cunningham, founder of WellConnectedMom.com. "The Beginner 's Bible app makes these favorite childhood stories come alive in a new way for kids. "

The Beginner 's Bible App is available free of charge. The complimentary download includes six interactive Bible stories, coloring pages, puzzles, and a game. Additional story packs will be available for $1.99 and will include six new stories, coloring pages, puzzles, and a new game based on one of the stories. All story packs will be released over the next three to five months. At that time the complete storybook Bible will be available to consumers.

To learn more about The Beginner 's Bible App, visit: http://app.beginnersbible.com.

Zonderkidz , a division of Zondervan, inspires young lives through imagination and innovation. As a leader in Christian children's communications, it produces bestselling and award-winning Bibles, books, board books, graphic novels, audio, video and digital products that awaken the hearts and touch the souls of kids under 16 and the people who love them, from family members to educators. Zonderkidz is the publisher of the NIrV (New International Reader s Version) Bible translation, the 3rd-grade reading level edition of the NIV that is ideal for children and those who speak English as a second language. Visit Zonderkidz on the Internet at www.zonderkidz.com.

About Zondervan

Zondervan, a HarperCollins company, is a world leader in Christian communications and a leading Christian publishing brand. For more than 80 years, Zondervan has delivered transformational Christian experiences through general and academic resources by influential leaders and emerging voices, and been honored with more Christian Book Awards than any other publisher. Headquartered in Grand Rapids, Mich., with additional offices in Miami, Zondervan publishes its bestselling Bibles, books, audio, video, curriculum, software, and digital products through its Zondervan, Zonderkidz and Editorial Vida brands. Zondervan resources are sold worldwide through retail stores, online, and by Zondervan ChurchSource, and are translated into nearly 200 languages in more than 60 countries. Visit Zondervan on the Internet at www.zondervan.com.

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Fast Facts

The Beginner's Bible App is based on The Beginner's Bible which is the best-selling children's storybook Bible of all time with over 6 million copies sold.

The initial concept of The Beginner's Bible was first developed in 1984. At that time, it was called the Dovetales Series and consisted of a collection of 48-page booklets with audio cassettes.

In 2005, The Beginner's Bible also underwent a full revision with both art and text and is available in more than 20 languages worldwide.

Over 15 million units of all The Beginner's Bible book formats have been sold and it has received the 2006 Retailer's Choice award by the Christian Booksellers Association in the U.S. and the 2006 Childrens Nonfiction Book of the Year Award in the U.K.

In 2008, Zonderkidz supported the brand with an interactive website complete with on-line games, teaching resources, and product information (www.TheBeginnersBible.com).

The Beginner's Bible App is available free of charge and includes six interactive Bible stories, coloring pages, puzzles, and a game.

Additional story packs will be available for $1.99 and will include six new stories, coloring pages, puzzles, and games. The first story pack for sale is available now.

App store link to download free app: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/the-beginners-bible/id539466818?ls=1&mt=8.

Unending Devotion by Jody Hedlund

About the Book: (from Bethany House)

Michigan, 1883
In Her Darkest Hours, Is He the Man She Needs?

Lily Young longs to find her lost sister or will die trying. Heedless of any danger, she searches logging camps and towns, posing as a photographer's assistant. And then she arrives in Harrison, Michigan--and the sights of Connell McCormick. 

Connell is determined to increase the fortune of his lumber-baron father and figures as long as he's living an upright life, that's what matters. But when Lily arrives in town she upends his world, forcing him to confront the truth that dangerous men have gained too much power while good men turn a blind eye. 

Vexing but persuasive, Lily soon secures Connell's help, drawing them ever closer to each other. Will standing for what's right cost them both everything?

My Thoughts:

Folks, I must offer my deepest apologies.  I haven't been able to finish this very well-written book.  Life has thrown me a major obstacle, but God has been faithful and shown mercy, and I will get back to my reading schedule soon.  I will give a review at that time.  So far, I am totally intrigued with the story!!

About the Author:

Jody Hedlund is the bestselling author of The Doctor's Lady and The Preacher's Bride. She won the 2011 Inspirational Reader's Choice Award, the 2011 Award of Excellence from the Colorado Romance Writers and was a finalist for Best Debut Novel in the 2011 ACFW Carol Awards. Currently she makes her home in central Michigan, with her husband and five busy children. She loves hearing from readers on Facebook and on her blog at JodyHedlund.com.

Thank You, Billy Graham - Released!!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About The Gold Label and Lamb & Lion Home Video

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

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

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

About the Book: (from the publisher)

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

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

My Thoughts:

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

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

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

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

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

About the Author:

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

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

You can read my interview with him HERE!