Nourishment from the Word: Select Studies in Reformed Doctrine by Kenneth Gentry

This book is created for all serious Christians desiring to dig deeper into the Bible and find the truth, as the Truth will set us free. We need to be consuming the meat and not just the milk of theology. Wisdom is the principle thing, so says the Word of God; it comes from the fear of the Lord, from knowledge (Epistemology), understanding of reality (Ontology) and Gods Law (Theonomy), developing our faith by the hearing and reading of Gods revelation. Together we dig for Gods nuggets of gold. Dr. Kenneth Gentry, an astute, brilliant Bible Scholar and devoted man of God, helps the reader find those golden nuggetsdissecting, comparing Scripture with Scripture, deciphering the context and time of eventsall in a systematic theological manner empowered by the Holy Spirit. His background in the Reformed tradition of the faith (see About the Author), his intentional deep study of Holy Writ and his precise and gentle, loving style of communicating, makes this book a must for students who want to follow Jesus lovingly, obediently and wisely. Here is a tiny sampling of the tasty morsels you will discover in this book from Dr. Gentrys informed pen A growing understanding of the Bible comes only through reading it, systematizing it, studying it, hearing it expounded and applying it. (Chapter One, page 8) The fact that the truth of Scripture is of no private interpretation is a foundational principle of creedal theology. No interpreter of Scripture works alone; we all must build on the past labors of godly predecessors. (Chapter One, page 10) Reformed Christians are a people of The Book. We firmly believe that both the Old and New Testaments are Godbreathed and profitable for Gods people. Though we may easily discern obvious progress and development in Scripture, the Bible is, nevertheless, one Book. (Chapter Two, page 16) Actually the defense of Christianity is simple we argue the impossibility of the contrary. Those who assault the Christian system must actually assume the Christian system to do so. In fact, atheism assumes theism. (Chapter Five, page 90) But I believe this sufficiently demonstrates the validity of the Westminster Confession, which declares It pleased God the Father, Son and Holy Ghost, for the manifestation of the glory of His eternal power, wisdom and goodness, in the beginning, to create or make of nothing, the world and all things therein whether visible or invisible, in the space of six days; and all very good. (Chapter Six, page 99) Thus, the theme of Revelation is the execution of Gods divorce decree against Israel, her subsequent capital punishment and cremation, followed by His turning to take a new bride, the Church. (Chapter Eight, page 153) My personal gratitude to Dr. Ken Gentry for allowing us to republish his work in one volume, dispensing sound exegetical expository of Holy Scripture, helping all of us to learn, grow and enjoy this Nourishment from the Word in these Select Studies in Reformed Doctrine all to the glory of God. As Dr. Gentry affirms in his initial chapter It is fundamentally necessary to hold as ones credo I believe Jesus is Lord. Gerald Christian Nordskog, Publisher

Dr. Kenneth Gentry, Jr. received degrees from both the Reformed Theological Seminary and Whitefield Theological Seminary. He pastored for twenty-five years in both the Presbyterian Church in America and the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. He now serves as Director of NiceneCouncil.com and the executive director of GoodBirth Ministries. Both organizations are dedicated to advancing serious Christian education, scholarship and apologetics. Dr. Gentry is the author and co-author of over 20 books. Nourishment from the Word: Select Studies in Reformed Doctrine is for serious Christians following the Biblical encouragement to “be a good servant of Jesus Christ, constantly nourished on the words of the faith and of sound doctrine” (1 Tim. 4:6). Dr. Kenneth l. Gentry, Jr. provides a banquet of nourishing entrees too seldom found on the menu of the modern evangelical church, to help hungry believers grow in understanding.

Christian Fiction and NOT Writing Just What You Know

I've had some interesting comments on Rob's and my latest anthology, Leaps of Faith. This is a collection of 14 stories of Christian science fiction. While I didn't fully itemize each faith represented, there are Anglican, Catholic and Christian stories and one Old Testament Biblical.

However, I've gotten a couple of comments to the effect that Leaps is a Catholic exclusive book. "written by Catholic writers" "a Catholic anthology" "I'm not Catholic but I enjoyed it." And the one that, frankly, insults the non-Catholic Christian contributors, the Christian publisher and my husband and me: "My only problem with this anthology is that uncomfortable feeling that the Catholics are the only people of God."

I'm not going to argue that here--you can check out the reviews on Amazon to see what people think about the mix of Christian and Catholic themes. What I want to talk about today is the ironic fact that many of the "Catholic" stories in Leaps--and some in Infinite Space, Infinite God, for that matter--were written by non-Catholics. In fact, we never asked anyone their denomination when we read the stories, and sometimes have been surprised ourselves to find out who practices what faith.

I'm always ticked at how that amazes and even scandalizes some people, even fellow writers. We think nothing of a housewife writing a detective novel or a computer technician writing a chick lit. Guys write romance with female protagonists while women write military sci-fi with predominantly male characters. Yet a person writes honestly about a particular faith, and people immediately assume the author practices that faith. Why is that?

I'm sure some people believe that to do anything different is to blaspheme in some way. I don't agree. To me, writing the faith that is right for the story is staying true to the creative talent God gave me. As long as I'm not glorifying a heresy or encouraging a sin, I feel safe in exploring other ideas, whether it's an atheist being pursued by a vampire or nuns living in outer space.

So what about writing what you know? I think writers that limit themselves to that do not go very far. There's such a wealth of adventure out there, some of which we will never know about first-hand. But we learn. I don't know asteroid mining--but I'm learning about it as I write Discovery. I didn't know Norse mythology until I started writing Live and Let Fly--and as I learned more, I had to change the story. That's what I love about writing. That's why I do it, even when I don't make the big bucks or get yet another rejection letter.

One person e-mailed me that he believed I preferred Catholic stories because that's what I'm more "comfortable" with. That's not true, not for me, not for a lot of writers I know. I'll stick with me, however. First off, I don't read a lot of Catholic fiction. (Yes, my fellow Guildies, I have not yet read Chesterson or Flannery O'Connor. They're on my list.) I read about wizards and aliens and serial killers and all kinds of non-comfortable things. I've written a story about a psychic teen who was mentally tortured. I've tortured one of my favorite characters while her best friend was forced to watch, and I have a scene for an upcoming book where the main character has to fight off a rapist. Think these were comfortable? Not at all, but they were disturbingly interesting to write and necessary to the story.

If I were to write what I "know" and what is "comfortable," I'd be putting out stories about how my kid didn't want to wear his jacket in the blizzard. That's about as much angst as I get in my life and believe me, I like it that way!

So it is with writing faith--not all my stories are Catholic. In one trilogy, the alien planet is Deist, and the other has its own odd mix of faith. They each had their own salvation stories, too. My Faerie world has what is called a Catholic Church, but "catholic" means "universal" and while it's similar to the Roman Catholic, there are enough differences that it is a unique religious organization. I could have (and maybe should have) called it the Faerie Church; I'm betting I take some heat from both Catholics and non-Catholics for it as time goes on. But if I do, I know it's because I've written a convincing world.

I'm starting to ramble here, but my point is that writers with real talent do not need to be limited by their current knowledge or beliefs. Imagination can take us to many exciting--and sometimes uncomfortable--worlds, and writing talent can help us share those worlds convincingly with others.

That's what the writers of Leaps of Faith and Infinite Space, Infinite God did. That's why I'm proud to have edited these anthologies.

Leaps of Faith: a Christian (not just Catholic) Anthology

I've had a couple of reviewers comment that Leaps of Faith is a book of Catholic sci-fi. This took me aback, because that was not our intention with this anthology. Rather we were looking for Christian stories of all faiths. Our guidelines for the stories were: 1. Great story, 2. Plausible science within the story (no reversing the polarity of a supernova and such) and 3. The science and religion were not inimical to each other.

However, as it turns out, the majority of the stories do have Catholic ideas or Catholic-like settings. Here's a rough breakdown:

Catholic: High Hopes, Leap of Faith, Relics of Venice, Convert, Confirmation, Lost Rythar

Catholic settings, but general Christian: The Faith Equation, Quantum Express, Tampering With God's Time

Anglican: Comprehending it Not

Nondenominational Christian: The Smile, Moses Disposes, God's Gift, Sometimes We Lie

This was not a conscious decision on Rob's or my part, nor would I saw our religious beliefs influenced our story choices. (We were both faithful but casual Catholics then.) We were reading for interesting angle, not doctrine or particular beliefs--in fact, one reviewer has told me he didn't find the Catholic stories especially Catholic in their proposed beliefs. (Which is fine: unlike Infinite Space, Infinite God, we were not looking for stories faithful to a particular doctrine.) I'd consider only one of my stories, Leap of Faith, to be Catholic. The whole time-travel program in Tampering With God's Time could have been done by another Christian denomination--and the crisis that sparked the time travel program had to do with the continual splintering of all Christian faiths more than the Catholic.
I also advertised about the anthology on more Christian writer sites than Catholic. Finally, some of the Catholic stories are written by NON-Catholic Christians. These authors probably didn't know Rob and I were Catholic, either. We never mentioned it in any of the submission calls.

So why the high proportion of Catholic representations?

The Catholic Church is involved in science. Look in the Catholic Encyclopedia or check out 1000 Years of Catholic Scientists by Jane Meyerhofer and you'll find hundreds of scientists who were not only Catholic, but often priests, monks, and even saints. Pope Pius IX established the Pontifical Academy in 1847, which consists of scientists around the world chosen for their contributions to science without regard to their particular religious beliefs--or lack thereof. Although independent of the Church, the Holy See supports its research financially, and its academicians research and publish papers on a variety of topics from theoretical mathematics to molecular biology.


(For the article, click here.)

It's an easily identifiable icon: whether you need a pro-life morality, a place receive sanctuary, or a scene of religious peace and grandeur, or (unfortunately) someone to balk against scientific progress, the Catholic Church comes to mind for many, regardless of religious affiliation. The Church is also known to be organized and budgeted. That's the reason I used it for "Tampering With God's Time." I wanted a religion with the right kind of infrastructure to carry out a secret program, and the non-Catholic Christian faiths I'd been exploring (I was in college at the time) seemed too independent and loosely organized to fit the bill.

Finally, Catholic IS Christian--a more ritualized, organized belief than many, but still holding to the basic tenants of all Christian faiths: salvation through Jesus Christ, loving God and thy neighbor, the working of the Holy Spirit in our world, and more. Those are the beliefs we found in these stories, Catholic and non-Catholic.
That's why Leaps of Faith is Christian sci-fi.

Purchase from The Writers Cafe Press OR

Leaps of Faith E-book Reviews

Leaps of Faith was first published as an e-book back in 2002. It was a finalist for the EPPIE for best anthology and garnered some very nice reviews. Here are the snapshots:


From: http://www.denisemclark.com/scifirevdata.html
Reviewed by Michael Bogert
Seldom does a book come along like Leaps Of Faith, where science fiction is blended with Christianity to produce excellent stories to inspire and enjoy. Karina and Robert Fabian, editors, have brought together several stories written by as many authors, that are based on the Christian faith.

The book was a real delight to read, and the authors wrote their stories well. It was easy to become immersed in each tale as they followed one common theme. Some were not as jubilant and happy, but each possessed an important moral, or lesson to be learned.

In some of the stories the authors had clearly studied and researched modern (and ultra-modern) technology, or had been educated in that particular area. Above all, the mixing of Christianity was a very refreshing change from the norm.
I give Leaps Of Faith two thumbs up, and I look forward to similar works in the future. To Karina and Robert I say, well done.

ScribesWorld.com: FIVE STARS!! "Karina and Robert Fabian merge science and faith in an anthology of fifteen Christian science fiction stories that ignites our imaginations."

TimelessTales.net: "This is the first collection I have read in years where I can say that I truly enjoyed each one of the stories. I heartily recommend them to the discerning reader."

Dog-eared Webzine: "Highly Recommended! ... the stories engrossed me from the beginning. Though SF/religious in nature (as stated by the publisher), each story managed to be more than that. They cover the gamut of human experience--doubt, faith, adventure, and conflict...It poses intelligent questions and offers honest answers. This is a book designed to make you think, and it achieves its goal."

Author's Choice Book Reviews: "This is a collection of stories from authors who explore many different aspects of science and faith, and what that all means when science makes another discovery, or when we reach out to alien races... I found the collection over-all thought provoking and a good read."

MyShelf.com: http://www.myshelf.com/scifi_fantasy/03/leapsoffaith.htm.
By Jo Rogers
There is a prevailing myth that science fact and religious belief are incompatible, although most proponents consider as fact things that are as yet unproven theory and many scientists find their research confirms, rather than destroys, their faith.

With this in mind, Francis Isadore Electronic Press presents Leaps of Faith, an anthology of Christian, science fiction stories. Most of the authors here are Catholic, so questions are explored from the Catholic point of view, but most apply to all points of view in the Christian faith. How will the aliens accept it? Better yet, will we be allowed to take it with us into space? Many of these stories speculate on what will happen when Christians explore beyond our world.

There are several scenarios here, from an alien trying to bring the faith to his world, the acceptance of AI androids into the church, the murder of the faithful by the ungodly and the use of one’s faith to bring about a miracle with the aid of technology. The possibilities are legion, but in all of them, known science facts are presented accurately. They are also realistic, in that all of the endings do not culminate on a miracle from God that comes about without human and technological aid.

I found this book quite interesting. I highly recommend this book. It not only entertains, it makes you think.

Purchase from The Writers Cafe Press OR

Leaps of Faith, ed Karina and Robert Fabian

Believe in a future where science and faith live side-by-side? Leaps of Faith contains 15 stories exploring space, time and faith. Can an ancient religion bring hope to first-line explorers for whom each trip is potential suicide? What does it mean when a physicist finds God's face in the stars? Is there a "saint gene" and can it be reproduced to create miracles? What happens to your soul when your body is shattered into quantum elements and reassembled on another world? How will the Christian faith transform alien thoughts and traditions?
Read as time travelers seeking to change Biblical history and space travelers harvesting "angels" are brought to faith by their experiences. Experience tender romance and heart-pounding adventure. Laugh at the foibles of man.
A 2002 EPPIE finalist for Best Electronic Anthology, Leaps of Faith promises the best in Christian sci-fi.



Purchase from The Writers Cafe Press OR

Leaps of Faith Book Tour

Over the next month, Leaps of Faith is touring the blogsphere. My husband and I edited this anthology of Christian sci-fi, which was a finalist for the EPPIE award in 2002 for best anthology when out in e-book and is now available in print.

I'll be doing some special posts during the week and here's where you can find more:

1 Book Info and Interview with Editors Free Spirit http://inspiritandtruths.blogspot.com/
1 Author's Interview and Book Info Time with Tannia http://timewithtannia.tripod.com
3-9 information, reviews, interview Christian Fiction Review Blog Roll www.cfrblog.blogspot.com
2 Book Information Tree-lady http://tree-lady.livejournal.com/
2 synopsis of some of stories Cathi's Chatter http://cathischatter.blogspot.com
3 Interview with Karina Bibliophile's Retreat http://bibliophilesretreat.com
3 review Cathi's Chatter http://cathischatter.blogspot.com
4 Interview with Susanne Bibliophile's Retreat http://bibliophilesretreat.com
5 book trailer Cathi's Chatter http://cathischatter.blogspot.com
5 Information, Interview Joy in the Journey www.teresaslack.blogspot.com
7 (Review) Bibliophile's Retreat http://bibliophilesretreat.com
12 (Interviews) Review Hutch http://reviewhutch.blogspot.com
13 (Interviews) The Book Connection http://www.thebookconnectionccm.blogspot.com/
14 (Interviews) The Book Connection http://www.thebookconnectionccm.blogspot.com/

The Firestorm of Dragons Book Tour!

All month, the fantasy anthology, Firestorm of Dragons is touring the blogsphere. We'll be doing some special blogs on it next week, but in the meantime, here's the list of who is featuring interviews, reviews and more:

November
1 (Authors and Characters Interview) Time with Tannia www.timewithtannia.tripod.com
1 (book Information) Tree Lady http://tree-lady.livejournal.com
3 (character interview) The Book Connection http://www.thebookconnectionccm.blogspot.com/
3 (Information) Interview Joy in the Journey www.teresaslack.blogspot.com
5 (summary) Brenda Weaver www.brendaweaver.blogspot.com
6 (Summary) Kim Richards on Live Journal http://kim-richards.livejournal.com/
6 (summary) Kim Richards on My Space http://www.myspace.com/kim_richards
6 (summary) Kim Richards on Blogger http://kim-richards.blogspot.com/
8 (interview) The Back Room Mat http://thebackroomat.dehanna.com/index.htm
10 (character interview) The Book Connection http://www.thebookconnectionccm.blogspot.com/
13 (Kim Richards Interview) Bibliophile's Retreat http://bibliophilesretreat.com
14 (Review of Anthology) Bibliophile's Retreat http://bibliophilesretreat.com
15 (summary) Cathi's Chatter http://cathischatter.blogspot.com
16 (review) Cathi's Chatter http://cathischatter.blogspot.com
17 (character interview) The Book Connection http://www.thebookconnectionccm.blogspot.com/
20 (book trailer) Cathi's Chatter http://cathischatter.blogspot.com
22 (Bios/book information) Books and Authors http://joyceanthony.tripod.com/blog
24 (Karina Fabian and Vern Interview) Bibliophile's Retreat http://bibliophilesretreat.com
25 (Sandra Ulbrich Interview) Bibliophile's Retreat http://bibliophilesretreat.com

The Fallen by John Evans

Nothing is what it seems. Scout often heard these words, but never paid them any heed, until the day they landed on Earth and destroyed everything he held sacred. John Evans in his new book, The Fallen, details the life of Scout "Striker" Carleson and his struggles against the sinister alien intelligence known as the "Fallen". However, he soon discovers that the old adage is true; nothing is as it seems. Now he must confront a far greater evil, and accept a destiny that could spell the end of not just the universe, but the infinite number of realities that surround it. The Fallen is filled with good humor, brilliant imagery, and a philosophical/religious approach that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Interview With C. A. Milson

What inspired you to write this book?

The first inspiration for writing this particular story came to me in 1989, when I was living in Melbourne, Australia. The original story was titled "Shack of Evil", a
9-page story based on the character of Jamiesonn. The story idea came from a Hobbytex picture my mother had on the wall of her apartment. After writing "Shack of Evil", I went on to write an additional 25 short stories, all of different genres, including a children's story. Shack of Evil would later become the base for what is now the trilogy of The Chosen, Bloodline of Darkness, and Prophecy's End.

What was the hardest part of writing this?

The hardest part is the re-writing of chapters and scenarios. No part of writing is perfect from the first sentence, as I will have an idea for a chapter, then when I have reviewed it I am likely to scratch that whole scene and go in a completely different direction. The other hard part is coming up with new ideas and concepts. There are times when I can sit in front of the computer for hours with no inspiration at all.

What's your favorite scene?

One of my favorite scenes in The Chosen is when Alex faces his nemesis for the last time. Alex has been annointed with supernatural power that even the forces of darkness sit back in awe. There is this one scene where he is thrown into the sea of fire, and.. well, I wont say too much as that will give the plot away :-)

What do you hope readers will say about your book?

I hope my readers will say that they loved my novel and await for the second one
to come out.

What's next for you?

Next for me is writing Bloodline of Darkness, which is the second in the trilogy in the life of Alex Manning - A man who is put in the middle of a spiritual conflict he otherwise wants no part of. Bloodline of Darkness is set seven years after The Chosen. Alex has forsaken his powers to live a "normal" life, and the forces of Tartarus have arisen to harvest the souls of humans and plunge the world into darkness. Alex once again must stand and save humanity but can he overcome the ever present darkness that also reigns in his own heart?

The Chosen is available through his website:
http://authorcamilson.blogspot.com, as well as many other online retailers.

The Chosen by C.A. Milson

From the time that the Darkness ruled Babylon, The Ancient Ones prophesied of a time when the last descendant of The Gods would arise. Now, in the town of Winmont, the
Ancient Legion has awoken to finish what was started many millennia ago. Now, the fate of humanity is in the hands of One, but can he overcome the forces that dare to challenge the bloodline of the Gods?

The novel is available direct from Amira Press
Through C.A. Milson's website: http://authorcamilson.blogspot.com
Or

From the Manger to the Cross by Jeff Doles

From the Manger to the Cross: Advent and Christmas Meditations on the King who was Born in a Stable, Crowned with Thorns and Reigns Forever

A manger, as someone succinctly put it, is a wooden structure large enough to hold the Bread of Life. See how this common stable fixture is lifted up to a place of sacred significance. A manger is not enough, though, not even one that holds the Bread of Life. It is only a beginning. The fulfillment lies in another wooden fixture. Looming in the midnight shadows of the manger, there is the figure of the Cross. Like the manger, it is a wooden structure large enough to hold the Bread of Life. The manger is a symbol of joy, but a very peculiar joy, for even as we celebrate Christmas, we know that the day of Crucifixion is also at hand.

In these meditations for Advent and Christmas, come and consider the King who was born in a stable, crowned with thorns and now reigns forever. Trace the path of prophets who foresaw Him, angels who announced Him, shepherds who witnessed Him and wise men who pursued Him. Ponder with Zechariah and Elizabeth, Joseph and Mary, Simeon and Anna what it means to watch, wait, listen and believe. Learn why Jesus came and how His birth, life, death and resurrection are the reason for every season.

Jeff Doles is a Christian writer and Bible teacher. His previous books include Miracles and Manifestations of the Holy Spirit in the History of the Church, Healing Scriptures and Prayers, and Praying With Fire: Learning to Pray With Apostolic Power. He and his wife Suzanne live near Tampa, FL and have two children, Michael and Sara.

ORDER at


and in PDF at Lulu (where you can also preview it): http://www.lulu.com/content/4322375

CSFF Presents: Beyond Reflection's Edge by Brian Davis

Sixteen-year-old Nathan Shepherd has a great life traveling where the careers of his father, an investigator, and mother, a renowned violinist, take him … until his parents are found murdered. Left with only a mirror and notes from his father’s last case, Nathan goes into hiding at the remote country home of Tony, his father’s college buddy, and Tony’s teenage daughter, Kelly. The mysterious mirror must be a clue to what happened to his parents, and when images appear in it—people and things that don’t exist—Nathan and Kelly painstakingly gather evidence. But the killers want the mirror too, and danger threatens the teens at every turn. As it becomes evident that Nathan’s father had stumbled upon dark forces at work in the world, several questions arise. Could it be that the mirror is a portal to a parallel world? Could this technology be used for evil purposes? And could his parents still be alive, trapped in another dimension? Nathan and Kelly struggle to solve the mystery before they too become victims. This chilling, hair-raising adventure is jam-packed with action in a fantastical world where nothing is as it seems, and even mirrors tell lies.

Bryan Davis’s Web site – http://www.dragonsinourmidst.com/
Bryan Davis’s blog – http://dragonsinourmidst.blogspot.com/



For more information, read the input of CSFF Participants:
Brandon Barr
Jennifer Bogart
Justin Boyer
Keanan Brand
Kathy Brasby
Jackie Castle
Valerie Comer
Courtney
CSFF Blog Tour
Stacey Dale
D. G. D. Davidson
Shane Deal
Janey DeMeo
Jeff Draper
April Erwin
Karina Fabian
Marcus Goodyear
Andrea Graham
Todd Michael Greene
Katie Hart
Timothy Hicks
Joleen Howell
Jason Joyner
Kait
Mike Lynch
Magma
Terri Main
Margaret
Rachel Marks
Melissa Meeks
Rebecca LuElla Miller
Eve Nielsen
Nissa
John W. Otte
Steve Rice
Ashley Rutherford
Mirtika or Mir's Here
Chawna Schroeder
Greg Slade
James Somers
Steve Trower
Speculative Faith
Jason Waguespac
Laura Williams
Timothy Wise

Review for The Rook by Steven James

Steven James has written an engrossing and sometimes disturbing thriller featuring FBI agents Patrick Bowers and Lien-hua Jiang. In this one, they go to San Diego to investigate a series of fires and end up catching a serial killer--but not before he nearly kills them.

Aside from a single nit, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. James has a wildly creative mind--sometimes a scarily creative one--and a knack for characterization and weaving in false trails and red herrings.

My favorite character, from a creative point of view, is the villain, Creighton. We start out seeing him as so creepy and evil that I had to force myself not to read before bed or I got nightmares! However, the real intrigue to Creighton comes over halfway through the book, when his capture and interrogation reveal the reason behind his twisted mental workings. Brilliantly conceived and brilliantly set up--and I also love how James made us understand him without being made to pity him.
The mystery itself is complex and expertly woven. At one point, I was so sure I knew what was happening next that I practically shouted at the characters to get a clue, but I was wrong! The ending too me by surprise, too: Creighton, as the title suggests, was only the rook in this story. James laid enough clues that I could figure out the king, but several other pieces are in play, in ways you'll never suspect!

Agent Bowers has a unique skill, geographical profiling (looking for patterns in time and place in order to trace a criminal's point of origin, and he learns, his next move). This gives the mystery an interesting perspective to compliment the usual investigative procedures, including personality profiling done by Agent Jiang. The romance between Bowers and Jiang moves forward in halting steps, a nice change from the usual get-them-together-by-book's-end approach. Also interesting is the growing father-daughter relationship between Bowers and his step-daughter; although, as a protective mother of four, I wanted to slap Bowers a few time for his parenting choices.

If you like thrillers, you'll love Steven James. In fact, I enjoyed The Rook far more than the NYT best-seller thriller I read in August. James doesn't just write exciting thrillers--he writes intelligent ones.

Buy it. You won't be disappointed.

The Rook by Steven James

Special Agent Patrick Bowers is about to uncover the military's darkest secret . . . and his own dark past.

While investigating a series of baffling fires in San Diego, Special Agent Patrick Bowers is drawn into a deadly web of intrigue where nothing is as it appears to be. With a killer on the loose and one of the world's most deadly devices missing, Bowers is caught in a race against time to stop a criminal mastermind's trap before it closes around the people he loves.

Full of fast-paced action and mind-bending plot twists, The Rook is an adrenaline-laced page-turner that will hold you captive until the very end.

REVIEW COMING TOMORROW

Order at Baker Publishing

Interview with Susan Kirkland

(NOTE: If you would like to have an interview posted with your book synopsis on Virtual Book Tour de Net, please fill out the following and forward it to karina@fabianspace.com)

1. What inspired you to write this story?

It’s easy for all the good stuff about our military to get hidden by by bad press and bad experiences, but I wanted to write a book that showcased that spirit, that captivated that honor and bonding experience. It’s no secret that I love that culture that is unique to military colleges. Can I get a “hua”?


2. Who is your favorite character and why?

Michael is my favorite. We sorta grew up together, actually. He was in stories I wrote in high school, but back then he had long hair and was quite the rebel (think 80’s hair band. . .). Then one day, I cleaned him up, gave him a uniform and liked what he became. I made him that Christian we all aspire to be – humble, over flowing with love and compassion, but strong, and fun. Is he perfect? Heck no. You’ll see his flaws pretty easily, but he is genuine in his faith and in his loyalty.

On a strange note, in the very earliest drafts of HH, Michael was actually more like Pawner, but I needed some glue to hold that world together, so he got promoted, was given a shot of confidence, and came out like one of those all around good guys that everyone likes.

3. How have your personal faith and beliefs influenced your story?

Higher Honor started out very secular and very, very dark. Even after I returned to my faith, I couldn’t imagine writing a Christian novel about sexual assault – after all, I hadn’t been able to find one. But I couldn’t get it to work. For years, it just bogged down. Finally, I threw my hands in the air, banged my head on the keyboard and said “You want it written, then tell me what to write.”

Everything fell into place I wrote the first complete manuscript in about four months. I couldn’t stop writing. I had to include healing and forgiveness, which was missing originally. You can’t heal from trauma without forgiveness. It was amazing how God moved once I turned the reins over to Him.

As far as what I wrote, I want my readers to come away with the hope that I have in Christ. Even when faced with incredible trauma and pain, and even when I screw up, He’s there and He’s taking care of me. I want my readers to have that.

4. What was the hardest part of writing this book?
The rape scene, for several reasons. The first was facing my demons, but it was good, I was able to let God in to clean up some things that I hadn’t dealt with. He was able to remind me that it had to be written, to help someone else. The second reason was finding that balance, where the reader wouldn’t lose the power behind the attack, but at the same time, be aware of audience sensitivities. I tell people who ask that I would feel comfortable with my teen reading it.

The second hardest was realizing that Chris needed to be a sympathetic character and writing him to be likeable. He’s very passionate about what he’s doing. He’s struggling to take care of his dad and he cares about his friends. It was hard for me to admit that even though he did something as horrible as rape that he wasn’t a monster. My husband was actually mad at me for making Chris the antagonist. Chris was his favorite character.


5. What was easiest?
Believe it or not, the scenes with just the guys in it. The playful banter between Michael, Ryan and Chris just came so easily. Maybe it was watching guys interact with each other. I love the chemistry between guys, it’s exciting and special, even if it can be a little loud and stinky.

6. What's next for you?

I have several projects. My local writers group, the Calhoun-Gordon County Writers Guild, is working on an anthology of pet stories.

I’m working on Higher Courage and Higher Sacrifice, the second and third in the series. The readers will follow Cassidy, Ryan, Michael, and Mandy through their careers with some harrowing adventures that test their faith and courage.

I have a manuscript written for “Fair Balance” the novel – my short story in “Light at the Edge of Darkness” was so well received that I decided to flesh it out and explore the lives of E.C., Celisa, Cain, and Ty. I haven’t begun editing it yet, but it’s written. It’ll be great for readers who like creepy books.

Website: www.smkirkland.com
www.myspace/smkirkland.com
www.shoutlife/smkirkland.com

Truth and Intimacy by Lacresha and Lensey Hayes

My apologies to Lacresha and Lensey for being late on this.

Truth and Intimacy fosters closeness and understanding between couples, helping them to overcome common marriage issues for a longlasting, healthy and happy marriage. With interactive activities, this book will become a close companion for you and your spouse.

Order from the Publisher.

LEARN MORE ABOUT LACRESHA AND HER WORKS:

Truth and Intimacy blog - http://truthandintimacy.blogspot.com
Lacresha's Author Site - http://lacreshatheauthor.weebly.com
A Place of Healing - http://lacreshahayes.weebly.com
Pretty, Prosperous, Powerful - http://learntofeelpretty.blogspot.com
Children's Lit Blog - http://alittlebitofchildrenslit.blogspot.com
CHMI - http://chmi.weebly.com
Fan Club Site - http://lacreshahayesfanclub.weebly.com
Myspace - http://www.myspace.com/lacresha75
The Rape of Innocence - http://therapeofinnocence.blogspot.com

Igniting the Moral Courage of America by Dean Kilmer

The moral landscape of America is eroding. The values of "The Greatest Generation" have been replaced by greed, selfishness, and a widespread disdain for the traditional moral values on which this great nation was founded.

Dean Kilmer, author of Igniting the Moral Courage of America, challenges individual Americans to take action to reverse the tidal wave of negative values that is destroying the greatness of America. It must begin with a personal commitment to integrity. "Integrity, however, cannot become the norm in our nation’s people until good people become courageous people."

When individual Americans commit to becoming courageous people of integrity, they will intentionally spread that commitment to their families, schools, communities, and ultimately to our nation as a whole.

It is not too late to reverse the tidal wave of negative values that has been robbing America of its moral strength for half a century. It is not too late to restore this great country's commitment to traditional moral values. That restoration will happen when America, one person at a time, steps forward with renewed moral courage to make it happen.

Will you accept the challenge?

Get it at Amazon.

Demon Alcohol and the Monstermen by Kenneth James Kirsch

Demon Alcohol and the Monstermen is the story of one little girl’s struggles to overcome generations of alcoholism.

Leysa Henko immigrates to America from Russia with her family in 1917, with all the optimism of a four-year-old. Leysa’s world begins to crumble when her abusive alcoholic father, Devak, opens a pub in Tallenook, Pennsylvania, during Prohibition. When her adoring mother Ionna dies of tuberculosis, Leysa and her older sister Maryska are left at the mercy of Devak and his abusive bar cronies—the Monstermen. Devak presses them into service to save his tavern by delivering vodka door-to-door—alone—to Tallenook’s horrific alcoholic “shut-ins.”

The spirits of family members passed on reach out to help Leysa. As Leysa grows older and more bitter, she loses touch and her life spirals out of control.

Will Leysa find the peace she so desperately needs before alcoholism claims another generation of Henkos?

FROM THE AUTHOR:

Leysa Henko’s struggles, and those of the characters in this book, are loosely based on people I’ve met throughout my life in the better – and worse – parts of this state. Demon Alcohol and the Monstermen is the story of just one Pennsylvania family’s struggles, but the scenes in this morality play may well play out in thousands of households in some of the more despair-ridden corners of the state, if not across the United States.

I wanted to turn the tables on alcoholism as a disease and focus on the other victims, the real victims. Groups such as Al-Anon and Alateen do such a tremendous job helping those victimized by alcoholism to live fulfilling lives and find peace that I decided to write a novel that focused on their struggles, on their daily triumphs and tragedies.

I hope this book helps those people who are impacted by this disease find a little peace in their lives.

Order at Amazon.

Higher Honor by Susan Kirkland

When Cadet Cassidy Sanders is brutally assaulted, she struggles
to carry on as she turns further from the God of her youth. Her
attacker is an acquaintance who has his own struggles to face.
God uses their mutual friends to show both cadets the depth
of his grace and mercy.

Higher Honor is set within the sub-culture of America's
military colleges. The novel focuses on the elements of honor,
brotherhood, duty, and the spirit of the characters to face
and overcome challenges that grow them into the military's
next generation of strong, capable leaders. The realism of
Higher Honor's setting and plot is a result of experience,
observation, and much research.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

S.M. Kirkland brings firsthand experience to her fiction.
While a student at North Georgia College and State
University (the senior military college of Georgia) she
enlisted in the Georgia Army National Guard. During a 10-
year military career, she served as a photo- and broadcast
journalist while serving in Italy and for the 1996 Summer
Olympic Games in Atlanta.

Kirkland currently works for the Calhoun Times as the
government reporter and her feature stories have appeared
in newspapers nationwide. Her first fiction publication was
a short story "Fair Balance" included in the anthology Light
at the Edge of Darkness (TWCP, 2007). This story received
several rave reviews.

WHERE TO BUY HIGHER HONOR:

The publisher's page, The Writers' Cafe Press (FREE shipping, autographed)


Amazon:
Barnes and Noble


Susan's web page:

http://smkirkland.com/

Susan's profiles:

http://www.myspace.com/smkirkland

http://www.shoutlife.com/smkirkland

http://www.new.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1261677646&ref=profile



Check out these other member blogs this week for more info.




If your email tries to translate code, you can find all of this info here:

Long Journey Home by Sharlene McLaren

SYNOPSIS OF LONG JOURNEY HOME:

After divorcing her abusive husband, single mother, Callie May, is still nursing the scars of a painful past. The last thing she needs in her life is another man, so she’s less than thrilled when a handsome but brooding stranger moves into the apartment across the hall.

Dan Mattson may be attractive, but his circumstances certainly aren’t; a former pastor, he abandoned his flock in Michigan and fled to the Chicago suburbs after the death of his beloved wife and baby daughter in a tragic automobile accident. Embittered by his loss, Dan turns his back on God.

Callie mistrusts men, and the angry Dan often gives her good reason. Both are weighed down by the scars and disappointment of their pasts. When Callie’s ex-husband shows up to wreak more havoc in her life, Dan finds himself coming to her defense—and facing his own demons in the process.

Will Dan and Callie be able to get past their baggage and give love another chance? Can they come to see life’s tragedies as part of God’s perfect plan? And most
important, will they allow the power of God to change their hearts and mend their hurts?


ORDER LONG JOURNEY HOME AT:
www.amazon.com ; http://www.christianbook.com ; or http://barnesandnoble.com
OR FIND IT ON THE STORE SHELVES OF YOUR LOCAL BARNES AND NOBLE, BORDERS, WALMART, OR CHRISTIAN BOOKSTORE.
OR AVAILABLE AT HER WEBSITE: www.sharlenemaclaren.com

Abiding Hope and Love by Connie Arnold

Abiding Hope and Love is a collection of inspirational poetry divided into six sections that focus on hope, love, children, music, the Bible and nature. These poems offer hope, love and encouragement in facing the difficulties of life.

SAMPLE POEM:

When troubles and trials of life
Like winds are howling around,
A place that is quiet and sheltered
Is what needs to be found.

As in the hurricaneʼs eye
The destructive winds cease,
So also within the soul
Is a haven of calm and peace.

When the winds of fear and hatred
Rage and roar along their course,
Through prayer their strength is weakened,
As faith subdues their force.

Thereʼs a safe, secure retreat,
A place down deep inside,
The center of lifeʼs storms,
Where hope and love abide.

Order at http://www.freewebs.com/conniearnold/

Hitler and Mars Bar by Diane Ascroft

‘Hitler and Mars Bars’, winner of Trafford Publishing’s 2004 Book Deal Contest, is the moving story of a remarkable child and era. It’s the story of a German boy's journey to manhood through loss, loneliness, fear, uncertainty, love and hope in war-torn Germany and post-war rural Ireland.

Erich's first home is Goldschmidthaus, a Children's Home near Essen. He lives for visits with his beloved mother and longs for the day he will live with her. He is distraught when, after a heavy bombing raid, her visits abruptly cease.

After the war he finds himself, with hundreds of other German children, transported across Europe to escape the appalling conditions in their homeland. Operation Shamrock brings Erich and his brother, Hans, to a new life in Ireland but with different families.

During the next few years Erich experiences the best and worst of Irish life. Living in a string of foster families, he finds love and acceptance in some and indifference and brutality in others. At Daddy Davy's he finds a loving home and is re-united with his brother. But his brief taste of happiness is dashed by circumstances he cannot control.

This is the story of a German boy growing up alone in Ireland. He dreams of finding his mother. He yearns for a family who will love and keep him forever. He learns his brother is his ally not his rival. Plucky and resilient he surmounts the challenges his ever changing world presents.

Set in Germany's industrialised Ruhr Valley during the Second World War and post-war rural Ireland this book evokes a little known episode in German and Irish history. It is a moving tale of a German child caught in war's vicelike grip and flung into a new land to grow and forge a new life.

REVIEW EXCERPTS:

"It's a riveting story...As a novel it is extraordinarily well researched.... Beautifully written with a strong human story running through it..."
Brian D'Arcy, BBC broadcaster, Sunday World columnist, author, journalist

"An endearing story...Ascroft is superb in telling the story from Erich's point of view...The story is both vivid and moving..."
News Letter (Belfast) 21 June 2008


AUTHOR BIOGRAPHY:

Ascroft is a Canadian writer, living in Britain. She has been freelance writing since 2002. Most of her writing focuses on history, arts/music and human interest stories. Her articles have been printed in Canadian and Irish newspapers and magazines including the Toronto Star, Mississauga News, Derry Journal, Banbridge Leader and Ireland’s Own magazine. ‘Hitler and Mars Bars’ is her first novel.

BOOK EXCERPT:
1

THE GINGERBREAD HOUSE
Bredenscheid, near Hattingen, Germany
March 1945

“Wake up, Erich,” his mother said softly.

Leaning over him, she gently shook his shoulder. Shrugging away from her touch, he turned over in the narrow metal bed. She shook a bit harder and he opened his eyes, squinting at her silhouette in the moonlight.

“Mutti! You’re here!” Erich sat up and threw his arms around her neck.

“Yes. Get up, quickly now.”

“I knew you’d come!” he cried.

“Shh…don’t wake the other children,” she hushed him as she pulled back his thin, woollen blanket.

Shivering in the cold air, he jumped out of bed and scurried the few steps to the fireplace. The embers from the fire, set before bedtime, still glowed and occasionally crackled in the open grate. The waning fire radiated a modest heat and Erich savoured its warmth. The moon was low in the early evening sky, but its light streamed through the partly drawn curtains.

Erich’s mother pulled his white cotton nightshirt over his head and he hunched forward, shivering as cold draughts eddied around him. She quickly threaded his arms into his shirt. Erich squirmed against the prickly fabric which scratched at his back.

“It’s itchy! I don’t want to wear it!”

“You don’t have anything else so you must. Hurry now!” she urged him.

She pulled up his short brown trousers and leaned over to lace his boots. She pushed his arms into his ragged woollen coat, then pulled it firmly around him, noticing how baggy it was.

“You are so thin!” she exclaimed. “You must eat!”

“They don’t give us much. And it’s rotten! It makes me sick. And I’m so tired,” he complained.

The food shortage was severe as the war drew to an end. Everyone struggled to get enough to eat. Malnutrition and the poor quality of available food frequently made the children ill. To conserve energy they went to bed after their evening meal.

She frowned, looking at him. The waist of his trousers was loose and his bony knees seemed large on his thin legs.

Putting her arm around his shoulder, she ushered him out of the dormitory and down the stairs. At the foot of the stairs Erich stopped. “Mutti has come for me, T-T-Tante Gretchen!” he called excitedly to the staff member standing in the downstairs hall. Nodding to the woman as they passed, his mother said, “I will return him by breakfast. Good night.”

As they stepped out of the door the darkness enveloped them; no street lights lit their way. Their eyes adjusted to it as they walked briskly down the country lane. Erich held tightly to his mother’s hand. He pressed against her, almost tripping her in his eagerness to be close to her on this rare visit.

*****
Title: Hitler and Mars Bars
Author: Dianne Ascroft
ISBN: 9781425145910
Format: Paperback, 340pp
Publisher: Trafford Publishing
Price: £11.99/$23.22/E15.86
Publication Date: March 2008
Website: www.geocities.com/dianne_ascroft
The book is available online from www.trafford.com/07-1955, www.amazon.com and other online retailers.

www.bebo.com/hitlermarsbars

Faith-Filled Fiction: An Educational Resource

If you're a fiction writer wanting to add a religious element to your characters and worlds, but aren't interested in preaching or promoting stereotypes, this FREE e-zine is for you. Each issue has tips on writing, an educational article about a world religion written by someone of that religion, and an testimonial about how faith influences one's writing. Totally non-denominational, the purpose is to learn to understand different religions before we write about them.

Quarterly magazine. Next issue comes out in October.

Don't fall back on stereotypes that may insult the reader or take them out of your story. Check out Faith-Filled Fiction. http://faithfilledfiction.karinafabian.com

CSFF Presents: Marcher Lord Press, a Christian Speculative Fiction Publishing Company

This month, rather than highlight a book, we're letting people know about a new publishing company, Marcher Lord Press, which is dedicated to bringing readers quality speculative fiction with a strong Christian worldview. Jeff Gerke, publisher, saw a need for the genre stuff that the usual Christian publishers and genre publishers generally won't touch, and is now providing those stories to you. So if you like horror, sci-fi or fantasy but don't want the usual Godlessness or witch/wicca angles, check out their bookstore.

This is a great time for it, too! Their grand opening is October first, and they are having drawings for great prizes (including a trip to ComicCon!) and free gifts with each purchase.


Marcher Lord Press:

What is it that sets Marcher Lord Press apart from every other Christian publishing company?

If you're curious about the industry—or you think you might want to become a Marcher Lord Press author—this is an essential question.

The most obvious thing that sets Marcher Lord Press apart is the kind of fiction it concentrates on. No other Christian publishing company is dedicated to nothing but Christian speculative fiction.

What is Christian speculative fiction, you ask? It's the "weird" stuff: fantasy, science fiction, time travel, spiritual warfare, alternate history, chillers, superhero fiction, near-future technothrillers, and supernatural thrillers. All the Christian stories that are off the edge of the map.

Marcher Lord Press: http://www.MarcherLordPress.com/ .
Jeff Gerke's Web site, WhereTheMapEnds: http://wherethemapends.com .


*Participants’ Links:

Brandon Barr
Tina Kulesa
Jason Waguespac
Justin Boyer
Keanan Brand
Kathy Brasby
Jackie Castle
Valerie Comer
Karri Compton
Courtney
CSFF Blog Tour
Stacey Dale
D. G. D. Davidson
Janey DeMeo
Jeff Draper
April Erwin
Karina Fabian
Kameron M. Franklin
Andrea Graham
Todd Michael Greene
Katie Hart
Timothy Hicks
Joleen Howell
Jason Joyner
Kait
Mike Lynch
Terri Main
Margaret
Shannon McNear
Rebecca LuElla Miller
Nissa
John W. Otte
Steve Rice
Ashley Rutherford
Hanna Sandvig
Mirtika or Mir's Here
Greg Slade
James Somers
Steve Trower
Speculative Faith
Laura Williams
Timothy Wise

Would You Like to Join Me on Book Tour?

In addition to touring other people's books on this site, I tour my own books on other people's blogs. I have two book tours coming up in November:

Leaps of Faith, an anthology of Christian Sci-Fi, comes out in November from The Writers Cafe Press. What's your vision of the future? Come explore worlds and futures where faith and science do not compete, but compliment each other. From travelers lost in space depending on faith to survive to a genetically engineered, yet divinely inspired miracle, Leaps of Faith is sure to satisfy the most discerning sci-fi and Christian reader. www.leapsoffaithsf.com

Firestorm of Dragons, an anthology of fantasy stories with dragon themes, is already out by DragonMoon Press. Dragons like you've never seen them before—from an extreme sport to a down-and-out private detective to a door-to-door evangelist; or for the more serious, dragons as heroes, victims and the mysterious result of an obsession. This collection is secular and one story makes it inappropriate for readers under 16 IMHO. It's a great anthology for dragon lovers—super creative and fun. www.firestormofdragons.com

Since these are anthologies, which means around over a dozen authors each, I've started Yahoo groups where I have the info posted and you can interview any author you wish. However, if you prefer to not use the group, you can simply work with me. I'd just like to get word out about these terrific new anthologies.

Remember, too, if you ahve a book you want to tour, contact me (karina(at)fabianspace.com) with the information!

Bubba & Giganto: Odds Against Them By Lea Schizas

Bubba hates it when his dad gets a contract for a new project. That means uprooting the family from one city and moving to another. Attending a new school is a major pet peeve of his. His smart alecky nature attracts the bullies in every school heʼs attended.

On the first day of school, Bubba bumps into this rather large student. Fearing a confrontation, he wears his tough guy attitude and waits for the punches to begin. Remarkably, the new student apologizes, and Bubba and David (aka Giganto as Bubba eventually nicknames him) become best friends.

Bubba and Giganto try out for the high school soccer team, and thatʼs when trouble begins. Bubba knew eventually heʼd meet the bullies of the school, and he was right.

In the first initial weeks, Bubba learns about a death that occurred the previous year; faces the bullies on several occasions; helps Giganto practice soccer before tryouts; and challenges the bullies to a scrimmage.

Little does Bubba know Giganto holds a secret - one that will place Giganto in a deadly situation.

WHERE TO BUY:

Amazon.com

4RV Publishing

Barnes & Noble

Secret Lives of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd

I've had to get tough on my guidelines, so I'm waiting on some authors to send me links and cover art for their books. (This is good news for you authors because I have several openings!) In the meantime, I bought Secret lives of Bees on a whim and adored it! Every sentence was beautifully written and the entire story was delightful to read. I highly recommend it!

Amazon Says: In Sue Monk Kidd's The Secret Life of Bees, 14-year-old Lily Owen, neglected by her father and isolated on their Georgia peach farm, spends hours imagining a blissful infancy when she was loved and nurtured by her mother, Deborah, whom she barely remembers. These consoling fantasies are her heart's answer to the family story that as a child, in unclear circumstances, Lily accidentally shot and killed her mother. All Lily has left of Deborah is a strange image of a Black Madonna, with the words "Tiburon, South Carolina" scrawled on the back. The search for a mother, and the need to mother oneself, are crucial elements in this well-written coming-of-age story set in the early 1960s against a background of racial violence and unrest. When Lily's beloved nanny, Rosaleen, manages to insult a group of angry white men on her way to register to vote and has to skip town, Lily takes the opportunity to go with her, fleeing to the only place she can think of--Tiburon, South Carolina--determined to find out more about her dead mother. Although the plot threads are too neatly trimmed, The Secret Life of Bees is a carefully crafted novel with an inspired depiction of character. The legend of the Black Madonna and the brave, kind, peculiar women who perpetuate Lily's story dominate the second half of the book, placing Kidd's debut novel squarely in the honored tradition of the Southern Gothic. --Regina Marler --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

Buy it at Amazon.

Sam’s Quest for the Crimson Crystal by Ben Furman

Samantha Mae Costas “Sam” is nobody’s idea of a hero. She is constantly teased about her thick glasses, her small size, and her asthma attacks are embarrassing and difficult to control. When Sam is forced to spend the summer on her grandpa's farm she thinks things can’t get much worse.

Deep in the caverns below the farm, Prince Buznor, a young Awok, is on a life-and-death mission to save his world. He has to find Sam and prove to her that only she can find and control the Crimson Crystal... the one weapon that can defeat the evil threatening his people.

To reach the Crimson Crystal Sam must journey through the hostile Land of Geffen, face hordes of catacomb dwarfs, vicious vampire bats and deadly monsters. Can Sam overcome her fears, her doubts, and find the Crimson Crystal in time to save the Awokian world?

Get it at Amazon.

CFRB Presents: Come to Me by Laura Davis

Can you imagine what it would be like, to travel back in time to the moment Christ was born, or perhaps witness his childhood? What would you do if you could journey to the cross and watch Jesus die for your sins? Come to Me offers readers the opportunity to experience these events first-hand from the eyes of His mother.

It is eleven years after Jesus’ resurrection and his mother Mary waits for a visit from the Apostle Luke. Intent on hearing a personal account of Jesus’ life, Luke sets about recording Mary’s words. The Apostle Matthew soon joins them and the two men begin to record the foundations of their Gospels. Told in two parts, Mary reveals with humour and warmth what it was like to raise the Savior of the world. Did Jesus perform miracles when He was a child? Did He know He was the Son of God?
In part two, Mary is nearing the end of her life and meeting with Luke once again. Only this time Luke is accompanying her to Ephesus to spend her final days with the Apostle John. Mary begins to share her story once again, this time focusing on the ministry of Jesus, His relationships with His family and friends, and of course His death and resurrection. What were Jesus’ final thoughts as he hung on the cross? What happened to Mary in her final days?

Come to Me explores surrendering to God’s will when circumstances seem impossible. It will provide those who are seeking to know Christ with a better understanding of who He is and for those who know Him already, it will encourage their faith.

Laura Davis is a former singer/songwriter with over 25 years in Contemporary Christian Music. After a surgical mistake caused her to lose her voice, Mrs. Davis began to write. She has since appeared on the Canadian Christian Television program 100 Huntley St., where she shared her story on surrendering to God’s will when your dreams are shattered. She has received positive reviews on her debut novel Come to
Me and is currently working on a sequel. Laura and her husband Jim live in London, Ontario.

Get it at Amazon!

Check out these member blogs Sept. 7-13 for more info.

Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday

Life Takes Detours by Julie McGlone

In Life Takes Detours, Julie McGlone invites us along on a spectacular joyride through the delightful and very different phases of her life, from her earliest memories of summers spent with her twin brother on her uncle’s farm, to her long, loving marriage to husband.

McGlone enthusiastically celebrates every experience as she allows the reader an intimate and revealing look into her private perspectives on successfully navigating life’s many demanding roles.

The seemingly ordinary story of an American family comes to life through the eyes of McGlone, who eventually traveled five continents with her husband and two daughters. Whether describing an important visit to Russia with her fellow teachers at the onset of the country’s new democracy or telling a simple story about tucking her pajama-clad grandchildren into bed, McGlone reminds us that life’s meaning is found not only in the notable occasions but in the tiniest moments as well.

Life Takes Detours is the poignant, at times hilarious, tale of one woman’s journey through a normal life made remarkable by the depth of her character and by the exceptional amount of love she has for her family, her friends, and for life itself.

Get it at

Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Borders

Shades of Gray by Jessica James

Winner of two Best Regional Fiction awards since its release in January 2008, Shades of Gray chronicles the clash of a Confederate cavalry commander with a Union spy as they defend their beliefs, their country, and their honor.

The Historical Novel Society called Shades of Gray "a sympathetic, loving
portrait," while Book Review Journals says it is "well written and expertly executed. You cannot leave this book unchanged in your understanding of the souls of the Civil War."

Shades of Gray is an epic love story that illuminates the fine line between friends and enemies at a time when traditions and principles were worth defending at all costs.

"...A beautiful story with a timeless message. It touched my heart and soul" Catherine Bennett, Amazon Reviewer

"If you want to read a book you will never forget and will think about fo=
r months after reading it, read Shades of Gray. The book took my breath away. Honestly, you will not sleep." A Bookworm's Dinner Blog


ISBN: 978-0-9796000-0-5
Available at www.jessicajamesbooks.com, and all Internet retailers including Amazon and Barnes and Noble.