Shaunarumbling

Wonderland Creek

2011-10-21T20:18:00.003-06:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Wonderland Creek Bethany House (October 1, 2011) by Lynn Austin

About the Author:

For many years, Lynn Austin nurtured a desire to write but frequent travels and the demands of her growing family postponed her career. When her husband's work took Lynn to Bogota, Colombia, for two years, she used the B.A. she'd earned at Southern Connecticut State University to become a teacher. After returning to the U.S., the Austins moved to Anderson, Indiana, Thunder Bay, Ontario, and later to Winnipeg, Manitoba.

It was during the long Canadian winters at home with her children that Lynn made progress on her dream to write, carving out a few hours of writing time each day while her children napped. Lynn credits her early experience of learning to write amid the chaos of family life for her ability to be a productive writer while making sure her family remains her top priority.

Extended family is also very important to Austin, and it was a lively discussion between Lynn, her mother, grandmother (age 98), and daughter concerning the change in women's roles through the generations that sparked the inspiration for her novel Eve's Daughters.

Along with reading, two of Lynn's lifelong passions are history and archaeology. While researching her Biblical fiction series, Chronicles of the Kings, these two interests led her to pursue graduate studies in Biblical Backgrounds and Archaeology through Southwestern Theological Seminary. She and her son traveled to Israel during the summer of 1989 to take part in an archaeological dig at the ancient city of Timnah. This experience contributed to the inspiration for her novel Wings of Refuge.

Lynn resigned from teaching to write full-time in 1992. Since then she has published twelve novels. Five of her historical novels have won Christy Awards in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2008, and 2009 for excellence in Christian Fiction. And two of her inspirational fiction books were chosen by Library Journal for their top picks in 2003, and 2005. One of Lynn's novels has been made into a movie for the Hallmark Channel, starring actress Shirley Jones. Ms Jones received a 2006 Emmy Award nomination for her portrayal of Aunt Batty in the film.

About the Book

Alice Grace Ripley lives in a dream world, her nose stuck in a book. But happily-ever-after life she's planned on suddenly falls apart when her boyfriend, Gordon, breaks up with her, accusing her of living in a world of fiction instead of the real world. Then to top it off, Alice loses her beloved job at the library because of cutbacks due to the Great Depression.

Fleeing small-town gossip, Alice heads to the mountains of eastern Kentucky to deliver five boxes of donated books to the library in the tiny coal-mining village of Acorn. Dropped off by her relatives, Alice volunteers to stay for two weeks to help the librarian, Leslie McDougal.

But the librarian turns out to be far different than she anticipated--not to mention the four lady librarians who travel to the remote homes to deliver the much-desired books. While Alice is trapped in Acorn against her will, she soon finds that real-life adventure and myster--and especially romance--are far better than her humble dreams could have imagined.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Wonderland Creek, go HERE.

My Review
I could certainly relate to Alice, a bibliophile who loves to read stories about others but has trouble engaging fully with real-life friends and family. I liked the book, though the pace was a bit slow at times. The characters were well developed and felt like friends by the end. I especially loved Lillie and her wisdom and spunk.

Who Is My Shelter?

2011-04-28T17:37:00.000-06:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Who is My Shelter Thomas Nelson (March 1, 2011) by Neta Jackson

About the Author:

Neta Jackson is the author of the popular novel series, *The Yada Yada Prayer Group*, and a spin-off series called *The Yada Yada House of Hope.* These novels were inspired by a real women's Bible study and prayer group that, as Neta says, "God has used to turn my life upside down and rightside up." Neta and her husband, Dave, are also an award-winning writing team, best known for the Trailblazer books--a forty-book series of historical fiction for young people about great Christian heroes (see www.trailblazerbooks.com). The Jacksons are members of a multi-cultural church in the Chicago area, and the parents of three grown children, including a Cambodian foster daughter, all with families of their own.

About the Book:

In Jackson's fourth Yada Yada House of Hope Christian evangelical novel, Gabby Fairbanks is now settled in her new apartment at the House of Hope. But she is being pulled in several directions at once and has some hard decisions to make.

Philip, her estranged husband, is in a lot of trouble with a rogue cop from whom he borrowed money and also with his partner at the commercial development firm after he takes company money to cover his gambling losses. Lee Boyer, the Legal Aid lawyer who has become a friend to Gabby, now wants to be more. Gabby must decide whether to give Philip another chance, as their sons, Paul and PJ, hope, and she turns to the folks at Manna House, where she works, and the Yada Yada Prayer Group to help her discern God's plan for her.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Who is My Shelter, go here.

My Review:
I enjoyed this final book (which I received free from the publisher for my Kindle) in Neta Jackson's Yada Yada House of Hope series. I read all of the Yada Yada Prayer Group books as well, and this was a satisfying conclusion to Gabby's story. I like Jackson's characters and am glad that the Baxters and other familiar Yada Yada faces still play a significant role in the spin-off books. I wasn't sure when the House of Hope series began how it would all play out, and though the ending of Who Is My Shelter? didn't surprise me, it also wasn't what I was expecting. Some elements of the plot seemed unrealistic, but not so far-fetched as to be unbelievable. As with her other books, Jackson's shares her faith and wisdom throughout the book without being overly didactic or preachy. I look forward to her future projects!

Save the Date

2011-02-21T21:13:00.000-07:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Save The Date Thomas Nelson (February 1, 2011) by Jenny B. Jones

About the Author:

I write Christian fiction with a few giggles, quite a bit of sass, and lots of crazy. My novels include the Katie Parker Production series and So Not Happening. I would also like to take credit for Twilight, but somewhere I think I read you’re not supposed to lie.

When I’m not typing my heart out (or checking email), I teach at a super-sized high school in Arkansas.

My students are constantly telling me how my teaching changes their lives and turned them away from drugs, gangs, and C-SPAN.

Okay, that’s not exactly true.

Some facts that are true include:

I've always been refined!

A. I got my camera confiscated by big boys with guns at the American Embassy in Europe this past summer. O la la!

B. I once worked in a seed mill office and cleaned out mice on a regular basis. Ew.

C. I’m a former drama teacher.

D. I didn’t pass my drivers test the first time. Or the second…

E. I attract stray animals like a magnet.

F. I used to assemble and test paint ball guns for a local factory...

Since my current job leaves me with very little free time, I believe in spending my spare hours in meaningful, intellectual pursuits such as:

-watching E!
-updating my status on Facebook
-catching Will Ferrell on YouTube and
-writing my name in the dust on my furniture

I’d love to hear about you, so drop me a note. Or check me out on Facebook.

About the Book:

You’re invited to the engagement of the most unlikely couple of the year.
When the funding for Lucy’s non-profit job is pulled, she is determined to find out why. Enter Alex Sinclair, former professional football star and heir of Sinclair Enterprises—the primary donor to Lucy’s Saving Grace organization. Alex Sinclair has it all . . . except for the votes he needs to win his bid for Congress. Both Lucy and Alex have something the other wants. Despite their mutual dislike, Alex makes Lucy a proposition: pose as his fiancée in return for the money she desperately needs. Bound to a man who isn’t quite what he seems, Lucy finds her heart – and her future – on the line.

Save the Date is a spunky romance that will have readers laughing out loud as this dubious pair try to save their careers, their dreams . . . and maybe even a date.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Save The Date, go HERE.

My Review:
I enjoyed this fun and funny—but not fluffy—romantic comedy and had no trouble relating to its geeky, curly-blonde-haired heroine.

Snow Day

2010-10-11T07:55:00.000-06:00

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Snow DayFaithWords (October 11, 2010)
by
Billy Coffey

About the Author:

When you’re raised in small-town Virginia by a redneck father and a Mennonite mother, certain things become ingrained. And when you marry a small-town girl and have two small-town kids, all you want to do is pass those ingrained things along.

Like believing the best life is one lived in the country enjoying the pleasures it provides—summer nights beneath the stars, rocking chairs on the front porch, deer grazing in the fields. And believing that no matter how iffy life can get sometimes, there are some things that are eternal and unchanging.

But above all else, believing that in everything there is story waiting to be told.

That’s where I come in.

Billy Coffey was raised on stories. The first ones came on the front porches of relatives, tales laced with local charm and deep meaning. Then came the stories from people like Max Lucado and Robert Fulghum, who write with a charm and deep meaning of their own.

Billy lives with his wife and two children in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. If you drive by his house, you’ll probably spot him on the front porch. If you do, give him a wave. He’ll wave back.

About the Book:

In this debut novel, Peter is a simple man who lives by a simple truth—a person gains strength by leaning on his constants. To him, those constants are the factory where he works, the family he loves, and the God who sustains him. But when news of job cuts comes against the backdrop of an unexpected snowstorm, his life becomes filled with far more doubts than certainties.

With humor and a gift for storytelling, Billy Coffey brings you along as he spends his snow day encountering family, friends, and strangers of his small Virginia town. All have had their own battles with life's storms. Some have found redemption. Others are still seeking it. But each one offers a piece to the puzzle of why we must sometimes suffer loss, and each one will help Peter find a greater truth—our lives are made beautiful not by our big moments, but our little ones. (2010)

To read an excerpt from Snow Day, go here.

My Review:
I admit it. I'm not a winter person, and though I enjoy fall, I don't enjoy the fact that it ushers in snow, icy roads, and darkness in late afternoon. Every time I picked up Snow Day, I felt the urge to shove it under my bed so I wouldn't have to think about snow!

But once I did get past my winter prejudices, I found a charming, hope-filled story and a narrator that drew me in. I enjoy Coffey's quiet wisdom and his voice. Through Peter's eyes and the everyday encounters he has with people he meets on his snow day, the reader learns valuable lessons about community and how good can come out of suffering and loss.

If you've never visited Coffey's blog before, take a moment to do so. You won't be disappointed!

Fall Into Reading 2010

2010-09-22T07:20:00.006-06:00

I recently saw the following quote and found it an intriguing idea:

"It is a good rule after reading a new book, never to allow yourself another new one till you have read an old one in between." — C.S. Lewis

With that in mind, one of my goals for the Fall Into Reading challenge hosted by Callapidder Days this year is to to alternate new titles with old ones. I also plan to finish some books I have previously started but set aside for later, which I've marked with an asterisk.

Here is my reading list for the challenge (if a book is crossed out, I've finished reading it):

*The Good Earth (Pearl Buck)
1984 (George Orwell)
*The Princess and the Goblin (George MacDonald)
*Mansfield Park (Jane Austen)
The Phantom Tollbooth (Norton Juster)
~~Snow Day~~ (Billy Coffey)
~~The School of Essential Ingredients~~ (Erica Bauermeister)
~~The Case of the Gypsy Good-bye~~ (Nancy Springer)
~~The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie~~ (Alan Bradley)
Jayber Crow (Wendell Berry)
~~Jane and the Madness of Lord Byron~~ (Stephanie Barron)
*Mere Churchianity (Michael Spencer)

I also want to recommend a reading tool I recently discovered—the ReadMore app—as it may be helpful to other Fall Into Reading participants. You can see all the features on the Demo video at the link above, but basically, it lets you set up a virtual bookshelf, keep track of how much time you've spent on a book, and see how long it will likely take you to finish that book based on your current reading rate. It would be a great way to keep kids' reading logs and track their daily reading assignments, which is why I originally downloaded the app, but I like it so much that I've been using it more than my daughter has. At $1.99, it's more expensive than the apps I usually get (i.e., free), but it's well worth the $2!

If you want to add me as a friend on Goodreads, you can find my profile here, or leave a link to your profile in the comments.

Have a great fall!

A Gathering Storm

2010-08-10T12:09:00.000-06:00

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

The Gathering Storm Summerside Press (August 1, 2010)

by Bodie and Brock Thoene

About the Authors:

Bodie and Brock Thoene (pronounced Tay-nee) have written over 50 works of historical fiction. Over twenty million of these best-selling novels are in print. Eight ECPA Gold Medallion Awards affirms what millions of readers have already discovered—the Thoenes are not only master stylists but experts at capturing readers’ minds and hearts.

Bodie began her writing career as a teen journalist for her local newspaper. Eventually her byline appeared in prestigious periodicals such as U.S. News and World Report, The American West, and The Saturday Evening Post. She also worked for John Wayne’s Batjac Productions (she’s best known as author of The Fall Guy) and ABC Circle Films as a writer and researcher. John Wayne described her as “a writer with talent that captures the people and the times!” She has degrees in journalism and communications.

Brock has often been described by Bodie as “an essential half of this writing team.” With degrees in both history and education, Brock has, in his role as researcher and story-line consultant, added the vital dimension of historical accuracy. Due to such careful research, The Zion Covenant and The Zion Chronicles series are recognized by the American Library Association, as well as Zionist libraries around the world, as classic historical novels and are used to teach history in college classrooms.

Bodie and Brock have four grown children—Rachel, Jake, Luke, and Ellie—and seven grandchildren. Their sons, Jake and Luke, are carrying on the Thoene family talent as the next generation of writers, and Luke produces the Thoene audiobooks.

Bodie and Brock divide their time between London and Nevada.

About the Book:

As Nazi forces tighten the noose, Loralei Kepler, daughter of a German resistance leader, must flee her beloved Germany. But is any place safe from Adolf Hitler's evil grasp? Loralei's harrowing flight leads her into the arms of needy child refugees, who have sacrificed everything in exchange for their lives, and toward a mysterious figure, who closely guards an age-old secret.

Explore the romance, the passion, and the danger of the most anticipated series of the last twenty years.

Born from the highly acclaimed and best-loved novels of three generations of readers -- The Zion Covenant series and The Zion Chronicles series -- Zion Diaries ventures into the lives of the inspiring and intriguing characters who loved intensely, stood up for what was right, and fought boldly during Hitler's rise to power and the dark days of World War II.

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Gathering Storm, go HERE.

My Review:
I just started reading A Gathering Storm and will post more thoughts on the book later.

First post of 2010?!?

2010-04-29T10:46:00.000-06:00

I suppose I should just admit that Facebook and Twitter have all but killed off this blog.

Whirlwind

2009-12-08T21:04:00.001-07:00

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing

Whirlwind
Thomas Nelson (December 29, 2009)
by
Robert Liparulo

About the Author:

Robert Liparulo is a former journalist, with over a thousand articles and multiple writing awards to his name. His first novel, Comes a Horseman, released to critical acclaim. Each of his subsequent thrillers—Germ, Deadfall, and Deadlock—secured his place as one of today’s most popular and daring thriller writers.

He is known for investing deep research and chillingly accurate predictions of near-future scenarios into his stories. In fact, his thorough, journalistic approach to research has resulted in his becoming an expert on the various topics he explores in his fiction, and he has appeared on such media outlets as CNN and ABC Radio.

Liparulo’s visual style of writing has caught the eye of Hollywood producers. Currently, three of his novels for adults are in various stages of development for the big screen: the film rights to Comes A Horseman. were purchased by the producer of Tom Clancy’s movies; and Liparulo is penning the screenplays for GERM and Deadfall for two top producers. He is also working with the director Andrew Davis (The Fugitive, Holes) on a political thriller. Novelist Michael Palmer calls Deadfall “a brilliantly crafted thriller.” March 31st marked the publication of Deadfall’s follow-up, Deadlock, which novelist Gayle Lynds calls, “best of high-octane suspense.”

Liparulo’s bestselling young adult series, Dreamhouse Kings, debuted last year with House of Dark Shadows and Watcher in the Woods. Book three, Gatekeepers, released in January, and number four, Timescape, in July. The series has garnered praise from readers, both young and old, as well as attracting famous fans who themselves know the genre inside and out. Of the series, Goosebumps creator R.L. Stine says, “I loved wandering around in these books. With a house of so many great, haunting stories, why would you ever want to go outside?”

With the next two Dreamhouse books “in the can,” he is currently working on his next thriller, which for the first time injects supernatural elements into his brand of gun-blazing storytelling. The story is so compelling, two Hollywood studios are already in talks to acquire it—despite its publication date being more than a year away. After that comes a trilogy of novels, based on his acclaimed short story, which appeared in James Patterson’s Thriller anthology. New York Times bestselling author Steve Berry calls Liparulo’s writing “Inventive, suspenseful, and highly entertaining . . . Robert Liparulo is a storyteller, pure and simple.” He lives with his family in Colorado.

Visit Robert Liparulo's Facebook Fan page: http://www.facebook.com/LiparuloFans

About the Book:

Which door do you go through to save the world?

David, Xander, and Toria King never know where the mysterious portals in their house will take them: past, present, or future. They have battled gladiators and the German army, dodged soldiers on both sides of the Civil War, and jumped from the sinking Titanic. They've also seen the stark future that awaits if they can't do something to change it--a destroyed city filled with mutant creatures.

And they've still got to find a way to bring Mom back and keep Taksidian from getting them out of the house. The dangers are hitting them like a whirlwind . . . but the answers are becoming apparent as well.

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

My Review:

I just received Whirlwind yesterday and am already halfway through it because of the fast pace and the suspense. This is a good series for Young Adults and grown-ups alike, and I'll give it a full review here as soon as I finish.

(Note: I received a copy of Whirlwind from the publisher for review. About the Author and About the Book information provided by CFBA.)

ice, ice baby

2009-11-20T19:20:00.001-07:00

I took the girls ice skating for the first time today with several other families. Isabelle stuck by me for about the first 5 minutes, then she was confident enough to catch up with her friends. Miss J was hesitant at first and I thought she might give up, but once we got the right size skates for her, she was practically running on the ice with the help of her skate cones. My legs are feeling pretty shaky at the moment, and my shoulders are sore. A nice hot bath is calling...

skate

You can see more photos here. (Blogger doesn't seem to like multiple photo uploads any more.)

harvest

2009-11-14T20:34:00.001-07:00

We had a great time at the farm with Grammy and Poppy while Ben helped with the milo harvest. To see more photos, go here.

Lost Mission

2009-11-11T21:30:00.000-07:00

Lost Mission

by Athol Dickson

About the Book:
What haunting legacy awaits deep beneath the barrios and wealthy enclaves of Southern California?

A billionaire driven mad by grief.

A pastor in love with the wrong woman.

An illegal immigrant desperate to feed his family.

Only Lupe de la Garza can save them from the ancient evil lurking in a lost mission's ruins, but it will take an act of faith beyond all human power.

An idyllic Spanish mission collapses in the eighteenth century atop the supernatural evidence of a shocking crime. Twelve generations later the ground is opened up, the forgotten ruins are disturbed, and rich and poor alike confront the onslaught of resurging hell on earth. Caught up in the catastrophe are...
· A humble shopkeeper compelled to leave her tiny village deep in Mexico to preach in America
· A minister wracked with guilt for loving the wrong woman
· An unimaginably wealthy man, blinded to the consequences of his grand plans
· A devoted father and husband driven to a horrible discovery that changes everything

Will the evil that destroyed the Misión de Santa Dolores rise to overwhelm them? Or will they beat back the terrible desires that led to the mission's good Franciscan founder's standing in the midst of flames ignited by his enemies and friends alike more than two centuries ago?

From the high Sierra Madre mountains to the harsh Sonoran desert, from the privileged world of millionaire moguls to the impoverished immigrants who serve them Athol Dickson once again weaves a gripping story of suspense that spans centuries and cultures to explore the abiding possibility of miracles.

About the Author:

Athol Dickson is an award-winning author of several novels. His Christy Award-winning novel River Rising was name one of the "Top Ten Christian Novel of 2006" by Booklist magazine. He lives in California with his wife. Find out more about Athol and his books by visiting his web site.

My Review:
I love Athol Dickson's writing, and he is one of my favorite Christian novelists. River Rising was amazing, and I also enjoyed Winter Haven and The Cure. I was excited to receive Lost Mission and am reading it now. I'll add more here after I finish the book, but I'm already intrigued by the story.

(Note: I received a copy of Lost Mission from LitFUSE Publicity for review. About the Author and About the Book information was provided by LitFUSE.)

You can win a copy of Lost Mission if you use Twitter. Here are the guidelines:

Tweet this and be entered to win signed copies of Athol’s award winning books:

Tweet 4 words that describe Athol Dickson’s #LostMission along with this link: http://tr.im/BPD1

Or

Athol Dickson’s redemptive tale #LostMission is a MUST read! Gripping story about mistakes and miracles! http://tr.im/BPD1

The Christy Challenge has a new home

2009-11-02T14:38:00.001-07:00

After hearing several readers discuss their negative opinions about Christian fiction, which they admitted they hadn't actually read in years, I launched The Christy Challenge a couple of years ago to encourage readers to give Christian fiction another try and read any book from the list of books nominated for a Christy Award. In summer 2007 and 2008 I posted some reviews of Christy-nominated books and interviews with several authors who had been nominated that year. Since then, I've continued to review and recommend Christian fiction and encourage authors.

The Christy Challenge has a new home now at The Christy Awards Challenge, and you can find out what Amy and Deborah have planned for this new ongoing reading challenge here! There are different levels of participation, and if you sign up by November 15 you can win a package of books that won Christy awards this year.

You can find my previous Christy Challenge interviews with the following authors:

Lisa Samson
Robin Jones Gunn
Mary E. DeMuth
Angela Hunt
Jenny B. Jones
Athol Dickson

I encourage you to check out this new reading challenge, and I hope you discover a new favorite author or two. Happy reading!

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-31T22:44:00.000-06:00

eye of the god

2009-10-28T21:07:00.000-06:00

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

eye of the god

Abingdon Press (October 1, 2009)

by

Ariel Allison

About the Author:

Allison is a published author who lives in a small Texas town with her husband and three young sons. She is the co-author of Daddy Do You Love Me: a Daughter’s Journey of Faith and Restoration (New Leaf Press, 2006). Justin Case, the first of three children’s books will be published by Harvest House in June 2009. Ariel is a weekly contributor to www.ChristianDevotions.us and has written for Today’s Christian Woman. She ponders on life as a mother of all boys at www.themoabclub.blogspot.com and on her thoughts as a redeemed dreamer at www.arielallison.blogspot.com.

From Ariel:
I am the daughter of an acclaimed and eccentric artist, and given my “unconventional” childhood, had ample time to explore the intricacies of story telling. I was raised at the top of the Rocky Mountains with no running water or electricity (think Laura Ingles meets the Hippie Movement), and lived out the books I read while running barefoot through the sagebrush. My mother read to me by the light of a kerosene lantern for well over a decade, long after I could devour an entire novel in the course of a day. Authors such as C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkein, George MacDonald, and L.M. Montgomery were the first to capture my heart and I have
grown to love many others since.

About the Book:

eye of the god takes the fascinating history surrounding the Hope Diamond and weaves it together with a present-day plot to steal the jewel from the Smithsonian Institute.

We follow Alex and Isaac Weld, the most lucrative jewel thieves in the world, in their quest to steal the gem, which according to legend was once the eye of a Hindu idol named Rama Sita. When it was stolen in the 17th century, it is said that the idol cursed all those who would possess it. That won’t stop the brilliant and ruthless Weld brothers.

However, they are not prepared for Dr. Abigail Mitchell, the beautiful Smithsonian Director, who has her own connection to the Hope Diamond and a deadly secret to keep. Abby committed long ago that she would not serve a god made with human hands, and the “eye of the god” is no exception. Her desire is not for wealth, but for wisdom. She seeks not power, but restoration.

When the dust settles over the last great adventure of the Hope Diamond, readers will understand the “curse” that has haunted its legacy is nothing more than the greed of evil men who bring destruction upon themselves. No god chiseled from stone can direct the fates of humankind, nor can it change the course of God’s story.

If you would like to read the prologue and first chapter of eye of the god, go HERE.

My Review:
I'm still reading this one and will post a full review when I finish. I'm intrigued by the story already.

(Note: I received a copy of eye of the god from Abingdon Press for review. About the Author and About the Book information was provided by publisher.)

Though Waters Roar

2009-10-05T18:03:00.001-06:00

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Though Waters Roar

· Bethany House (October 1, 2009)

by

Lynn Austin

About the Author:

Along with reading, two of Lynn's lifelong passions are history and archaeology. While researching her Biblical fiction series, Chronicles of the Kings, these two interests led her to pursue graduate studies in Biblical Backgrounds and Archaeology through Southwestern Theological Seminary. She and her son traveled to Israel during the summer of 1989 to take part in an archaeological dig at the ancient city of Timnah. This experience contributed to the inspiration for her novel Wings of Refuge.

Lynn resigned from teaching to write full-time in 1992. Since then she has published twelve novels. Five of her historical novels, Hidden Places, Candle in the Darkness, Fire by Night, A Proper Pursuit, and Until We Reach Home have won Christy Awards in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2008, and 2009 for excellence in Christian Fiction.

Fire by Night was also one of only five inspirational fiction books chosen by Library Journal for their top picks of 2003, and All She Ever Wanted was chosen as one of the five inspirational top picks of 2005. Lynn's novel Hidden Places has been made into a movie for the Hallmark Channel.

About the Book:

"Thank goodness you're such a plain child. You'll have to rely on your wits."

So went the words of Grandma Bebe. And for all of my growing-up years, I scoffed at the beauty of my sister and what I saw as her meaningless existence. But my wits hadn't served me well in this instance, for here I was, in jail. And while I could have seen it as carrying on the family tradition (for Grandma Bebe landed in jail for her support of Prohibition), the truth is, my reasons for being here would probably break her heart.

So how did I end up becoming a criminal? I've been pondering that question all night. Perhaps the best way to search for an answer is to start at the very beginning.

Harriet Sherwood has always adored her grandmother. But when Harriet decides to follow in her footsteps to fight for social justice, she certainly never expected her efforts to land her in jail. Nor did she expect her childhood enemy and notorious school bully, Tommy O'Reilly, to be the arresting officer.

Languishing in a jail cell, Harriet has plenty of time to sift through the memories of the three generations of women who have preceded her. As each story emerges, the strength of her family--and their deep faith in the God of justice and righteousness--brings Harriet to the discovery of her own goals and motives for pursuing them.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Though Waters Roar, go HERE.

My Review:
I haven't read this one yet and will post a review as soon as I do.

art takes many forms

2009-09-25T21:28:00.003-06:00

Kseniya Simonova won Ukraine's Got Talent with her sand animation of Germany's attack on Ukraine during WWII. The video is powerful and stunning. Storytelling without words.

Fall Into Reading

2009-09-22T22:53:00.023-06:00

For this year's Fall Into Reading challenge, I decided to read nine 2009 novels:

READ Short Girls (Bich Minh Nguyen)
READ Shanghai Girls (Lisa See)
READ The Magician's Elephant (Kate DiCamillo)
READ Catching Fire (Suzanne Collins)
READ The Help (Kathryn Stockett)
READ Who Do I Talk To? (Neta Jackson)
Lost Mission (Athol Dickson)
READ The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Prisoner's Dilemma (Trenton Lee Stewart)
READ Peter and the Sword of Mercy (Dave Barry & Ridley Pearson)

Join Katrina and many other readers for this fun, low-pressure reading challenge.

Just Between You and Me

2009-09-09T22:10:00.003-06:00

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing

Just Between You And Me

Thomas Nelson (September 1, 2009)
by
Jenny B. Jones

About the Author:

I write Christian fiction with a few giggles, quite a bit of sass, and lots of crazy. My novels include the Katie Parker Production series and So Not Happening. I would also like to take credit for Twilight, but somewhere I think I read you’re not supposed to lie.

When I’m not typing my heart out (or checking email), I teach at a super-sized high school in Arkansas.

My students are constantly telling me how my teaching changes their lives and turned them away from drugs, gangs, and C-SPAN.

Okay, that’s not exactly true.

Since my current job leaves me with very little free time, I believe in spending my spare hours in meaningful, intellectual pursuits such as:

-watching E!
-updating my status on Facebook
-catching Will Ferrell on YouTube and
-writing my name in the dust on my furniture

I’d love to hear about you, so drop me a note. Or check me out on Facebook.

About the Book:

The only thing scarier than living on the edge is stepping off it.
Maggie Montgomery lives a life of adventure. Her job as a cinematographer takes her from one exotic locale to the next. When Maggie's not working, she loves to rappel off cliffs or go skydiving. Nothing frightens her.

Nothing, that is, except Ivy, Texas, where a family emergency pulls her back home to a town full of bad memories, painful secrets, and people Maggie left far behind . . . for a reason.

Forced to stay longer than she intended, Maggie finds her family a complete mess, including the niece her sister has abandoned. Ten-year-old Riley is struggling in school and out of control at home. The only person who can really handle the pint-sized troublemaker is Conner, the local vet and Ivy's most eligible bachelor. But Conner and Maggie keep butting heads--he's suspicious of her and, well, she doesn't rely on anyone but herself.

As Maggie humorously fumbles her way from one mishap to another, she realizes she's going to need to ask for help from the one person who scares her the most.

To save one little girl--and herself--can Maggie let go of her fears and just trust God?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Just Between You And Me, go HERE.

My Review:
I'm a Jenny B. Jones fan girl even though I'm at least twice as old as most fans of her YA books. Her Facebook/Twitter statuses make me laugh, and Jenny's is one of the few blogs in my Google Reader that I never mark as read without actually reading.

Just Between You and Me is her first novel for adults, and it's just as charming and full of humor. I enjoyed the story and appreciated its message of trusting God and following His plan even when it would be easier and much more comfortable to stick to your own plans. The chemistry between Maggie and Conner works, and the book is a fun romantic comedy with a solid message.

The Friends We Keep/40 Minute Bible Studies

2009-08-13T21:52:00.006-06:00

The Friends We Keep

by Sarah Zacharias Davis

About the Book:

During a particularly painful time in her life, Sarah Zacharias Davis learned how delightful–and wounding–women can be in friendship. She saw how some friendships end badly, others die slow deaths, and how a chance acquaintance can become that enduring friend you need.

The Friends We Keep is Sarah’s thoughtful account of her own story and the stories of other women about navigating friendship. Her revealing discoveries tackle the questions every woman asks:

• Why do we long so for women friends?
• Do we need friends like we need air or food or water?
• What causes cattiness, competition, and co-dependency in too many friendships?
• Why do some friendships last forever and others only a season?
• How do I foster friendship?
• When is it time to let a friend go, and how do I do so?

With heartfelt, intelligent writing, Sarah explores these questions and more with personal stories, cultural references and history, faith, and grace. In the process, she delivers wisdom for navigating the challenges, mysteries, and delights of friendship: why we need friendships with other women, what it means to be safe in relationship, and how to embrace what a friend has to offer, whether meager or generous.

About the Author:
Sarah Zacharias Davis is a senior advancement officer at Pepperdine University, having joined the university after working as vice president of marketing and development for Ravi Zacharias International Ministries and in strategic marketing for CNN. The daughter of best-selling writer Ravi Zacharias, Davis is the author of the critically-acclaimed Confessions from an Honest Wife and Transparent: Getting Honest About Who We are and Who We Want to Be. She graduated from Covenant College with a degree in education and lives in Los Angeles, California.

40 Minute Bible Studies

by Kay Arthur and David & BJ Lawson

The 40 Minute Bible Study series from beloved Bible teacher Kay Arthur and the teaching staff of Precept Ministries tackles important issues in brief, easy-to-grasp lessons you can use personally or for small-group discussion. Each book in the series includes six 40-minute studies designed to draw you into God’s Word through basic inductive Bible study. There are 16 titles in the series, with topics ranging from fasting and forgiveness to prayer and worship. With no homework required, everyone in the group can work through the lesson together at the same time. Let these respected Bible teachers lead you in a study that will transform your thinking—and your life.

Titles Include:

•The Essentials of Effective Prayer •Being a Disciple: Counting the Cost

•Building a Marriage That Really Works •Discovering What the Future Holds

•Forgiveness: Breaking the Power of the Past •Having a Real Relationship with God

•How Do You Walk the Walk and Talk the Talk? •Living a Life of Real Worship

•How to Make Choices You Won’t Regret •Living Victoriously in Difficult Times

•Money & Possessions: The Quest for Contentment •Rising to the Call of Leadership

•How Do You Know God’s Your Father? •Key Principles of Biblical Fasting

•A Man’s Strategy for Conquering Temptation •What Does the Bible Say About Sex?

About the Author:
executive vice president and cofounder of Precept Ministries International has worked with her teaching staff to create the powerful 40-Minute Bible Studies series. Kay is known around the world as a Bible teacher, author, conference speaker, and host of national radio and television programs.

[About the Book and About the Author text provided by publisher.]

My Review:

I have just started reading The Friends We Keep and will add a review for that book to this post later.

I read through the 40 Minute Bible Study that I received (What Does the Bible Say About Sex?) and think the study's format would be an interesting one to try with a small group. It would be ideal to do with a group when you have a limited amount of time to meet and can't commit to spending lots of time on homework on your own, as each week's study is completed by group members together. The verses referenced are included in the booklet. Throughout the study, readers are instructed to circle and box different words and make other markings in the verses. Although I regularly make notes and underline text while studying, being told to circle this word, make a squiggly underline under that one, and draw a box around another doesn't appeal to me or add much to my personal study experience. However, I understand that people have different learning styles and that this visual exercise could be useful to others. The studies don't cost much (under $8) and don't require videos or other materials. A variety of discussion prompts, study questions, and additional insight are provided, as well as tips for using the study.

Your Jesus Is Too Safe

2009-08-12T18:19:00.001-06:00

Your Jesus Is Too Safe

by Jared C. Wilson

As Jared Wilson emphasizes in the first chapter of Your Jesus Is Too Safe: Outgrowing a Drive-Thru, Feel-Good Savior, to really know God, we have to really know Jesus. A lot of people think they know Jesus and who he is, but our culture--both inside and outside of Christianity--presents so many different and often conflicting perceptions about Jesus that it's easy to lose sight of the original person. In addition to Grammy Award Jesus, Hippie Jesus, and Role Model Jesus, who are mentioned in the book, we have Jesus Christ Superstar, Bobble Head Jesus, Huggy Jesus, Action Figure Jesus, and all the stereotyping that goes along with those portrayals of him.

Wilson describes the book thusly: "The purpose of Your Jesus Is Too Safe is to remind us, for the glory of God and the hope of the world, of the original message of the historical person Jesus Christ, who was, in fact, God in the flesh." He aims to "venture beyond the hype and beneath the misconceptions to see the real, historical figure of Jesus Christ in his biblical and cultural context--and in this way to know God more fully, to see what God wants us to know about the revelation of himself in his son."

The author does this by focusing on twelve facets or portraits of Jesus: Jesus the Promise, Jesus the Prophet, Jesus the Forgiver, Jesus the Man, Jesus the Shepherd, Jesus the Judge, Jesus the Redeemer, Jesus the King, Jesus the Sacrifice, Jesus the Provision, Jesus the Lord, and Jesus the Savior. Wilson boldly proclaims the gospel and doesn't equivocate, and his words for the Christian church are sometimes provocative.

He writes in a conversational tone and includes humor, personal anecdotes and stories, and many references to pop culture as he explores these ideas. Who knew a serious, rather meaty theological book could be so funny and easy to read? I chuckled out loud at several of the footnotes (I may not speak aloud to books, but I do laugh aloud while reading them when warranted). Now I won't ever be able to read the Psalms without thinking of David as the first emo kid.

Jesus the Redeemer is probably my favorite chapter, and I appreciated the story shared by Wilson's cousin, Steve Jones. The book is well written and engaging, thought-provoking and convicting. Mostly it made me aware that Jesus is awesome! Sure, I already knew that, but it's good and necessary to be reminded, especially during spiritual dry spells. I highly recommend Your Jesus Is Too Safe. I'm looking forward to reading through it again and discussing it with my husband after he reads it (hint, hint).

Visit the Your Jesus Is Too Safe blog tour to see more reviews as well as interviews with the author.

About the Author:

Jared C. Wilson has been a minister and freelance writer for more than a decade. He lives with his wife and two daughters in Nashville, Tennessee, where he is the pastor and cofounder of Element, a missional Christian community.

I've been reading Jared's posts at The Thinklings for a few years (I especially like the conversations we have there about LOST), and he has some great stuff on his blog, The Gospel-Driven Church. I've previously recommended his article Obama Wants to Give Your Kids Cancer, which challenges Christians to be keepers and proclaimers of truth rather than eagerly spreading rumors and claims via email forwards without any regard for their accuracy. I was excited when I heard Jared would be publishing a book, and I'm happy to report that it's as good as I hoped!

Happy Birthday, Miss J!

2009-08-04T18:38:00.001-06:00

Timescape

2009-08-04T15:10:00.005-06:00

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Timescape
Thomas Nelson (July 14, 2009)
by
Robert Liparulo

About the Author:

Robert Liparulo is a former journalist, with over a thousand articles and multiple writing awards to his name. His first novel, Comes a Horseman, released to critical acclaim. Each of his subsequent thrillers—Germ, Deadfall, and Deadlock—secured his place as one of today’s most popular and daring thriller writers.

He is known for investing deep research and chillingly accurate predictions of near-future scenarios into his stories. In fact, his thorough, journalistic approach to research has resulted in his becoming an expert on the various topics he explores in his fiction, and he has appeared on such media outlets as CNN and ABC Radio.

Liparulo’s visual style of writing has caught the eye of Hollywood producers. Currently, three of his novels for adults are in various stages of development for the big screen: the film rights to Comes A Horseman. were purchased by the producer of Tom Clancy’s movies; and Liparulo is penning the screenplays for GERM and Deadfall for two top producers. He is also working with the director Andrew Davis (The Fugitive, Holes) on a political thriller. Novelist Michael Palmer calls Deadfall “a brilliantly crafted thriller.” March 31st marked the publication of Deadfall’s follow-up, Deadlock, which novelist Gayle Lynds calls, “best of high-octane suspense.”

Liparulo’s bestselling young adult series, Dreamhouse Kings, debuted last year with House of Dark Shadows and Watcher in the Woods. Book three, Gatekeepers, released in January, and number four, Timescape, in July. The series has garnered praise from readers, both young and old, as well as attracting famous fans who themselves know the genre inside and out. Of the series, Goosebumps creator R.L. Stine says, “I loved wandering around in these books. With a house of so many great, haunting stories, why would you ever want to go outside?”

With the next two Dreamhouse books “in the can,” he is currently working on his next thriller, which for the first time injects supernatural elements into his brand of gun-blazing storytelling. The story is so compelling, two Hollywood studios are already in talks to acquire it—despite its publication date being more than a year away. After that comes a trilogy of novels, based on his acclaimed short story, which appeared in James Patterson’s Thriller anthology. New York Times bestselling author Steve Berry calls Liparulo’s writing “Inventive, suspenseful, and highly entertaining . . . Robert Liparulo is a storyteller, pure and simple.” He lives with his family in Colorado.

About the Book:

David, Xander, Dad, and Keal have discovered a terrible secret. Now, finding Mom is only a small part of their mission. And time is running out. Using the portals to build an empire, Taksidian wants the house for himself, and there's nothing he won't do to get the family out. The consequences of his meddling reach far beyond the family--to the future of the world itself. The Kings know their survival depends on stopping the bloodthirsty assassin. If only they can find his weakness in time.

Most startling of all is their ability to change the path of history. But will their tinkering in time reunite the family and save the future . . . or set mankind on an irreversible course of destruction?

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

Enter to win this book package by clicking on the image below!

(About the Author and About the Book content provided by publisher.)

My Review:

I'm a fan of the Dreamhouse Kings series and can't wait to share it with my kids; my 8-year-old is still too young for the intense action and suspense of these Young Adult novels. I've enjoyed seeing the characters develop throughout the series, especially in Timescape. I also appreciate that the younger sister, Toria, has a more prevalent role in the story now and isn't just the little sister who we only know superficial details about. Liparulo is a great storyteller. Even on a hot July evening, I shivered when I read his description of David, Xander, and their dad traveling through a portal onto the Titanic just before it sunk!

Many book series for catch the reader up with a brief recap at the beginning of each book, but the Dreamhouse Kings books don't stand alone. The action picks up right where it left off in the previous book's cliffhanger ending, so you really do need to read the previous books in the series--House of Dark Shadows, Watcher in the Woods, and Gatekeepers--to understand what's going on.

Blue Like Play Dough

2009-07-29T13:07:00.009-06:00

Blue Like Play Dough

by Tricia Goyer

About the Author:

Tricia Goyer is the author of numerous works of fiction and nonfiction, including Generation NeXt Parenting and the Gold Medallion finalist Life Interrupted. Goyer writes for publications such as Today’s Christian Woman and Focus on the Family, speaks to women’s groups nationwide, and has been a presenter at the Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) national convention. She and her husband, John, live with their family in Montana.

My Review:

Tricia Goyer's Blue Like Play Dough: The Shape of Motherhood in the Grip of God is truly a lovely book, and it's easily the most encouraging, refreshing book I've read all year. I usually use last names when I refer to an author in book reviews, but I'm going to call her Tricia here because after reading this book, I feel like I've been chatting over a cup of coffee with her and am writing about a friend! It's easy for me to relate to Tricia, a fellow homeschooling mom and writer (though granted, she's at quite a different level than I am) who's about the same age. I also appreciated what she shared about her early writing career.

The book's title is a playful nod to Donald Miller's popular book Blue Like Jazz. Like Miller, Tricia writes conversationally with humor and candor about her faith journey. From Blue Like Play Dough's Prologue:

"In each of our lives, there is molding and shaping to be done. Perhaps I needed more work than most, but as I look back on my life, I realize that if there is one thing that all the stretching and poking and smashing has taught me, it's that I never want to be anywhere but in the grip of God."

Tricia likens mothers to lumps of play dough and shares how God molds, shapes, and stretches us to be vessels he can use. She successfully carries this metaphor throughout the book to connect the personal stories and vignettes about her life. She tells about being a teen mom after previously having an abortion and later how God used these personal experiences to enable her to start a pregnancy resource center. She shares about the everyday events and joys of motherhood and about her struggles to remain in God's hands and allow him to shape her and use her in areas where she didn't want to go. She also covers the fear and uncertainty of trusting God to shape and stretch her children. Most of all, Tricia's story tenderly, honestly shows the hand of her loving Father working in her life.

The book is a good reminder of how God works in spite of and through our mistakes and imperfections. Seeing the molding process in this light is especially important when you're going through seasons where it feels you're being pounded and stretched and would prefer to be left alone in your current shape.

Here's a shot of me that I took for the recent Play Dough Party on Facebook to celebrate the book's release. Read it, and you'll smile too! And probably cry as well. I plan to pass this wonderful book along to another mom and highly recommend it.

changes

2009-07-25T22:27:00.003-06:00

I'm updating my template and working out a few kinks. If you're running Internet Explorer 6, I don't think the template will resolve correctly, but that's an IE issue and I can't do anything about it.

Shaunarumbling

Wonderland Creek

Who Is My Shelter?

Save the Date

Snow Day

Fall Into Reading 2010

A Gathering Storm

First post of 2010?!?

Top Picks Read in 2009

Whirlwind

ice, ice baby

harvest

Lost Mission

The Christy Challenge has a new home

Happy Halloween!

eye of the god

Though Waters Roar

art takes many forms

Fall Into Reading

Just Between You and Me

The Friends We Keep/40 Minute Bible Studies

Your Jesus Is Too Safe

Happy Birthday, Miss J!

Timescape

Blue Like Play Dough

changes