Focus on Christmas with Kay Marshall Strom and a giveaway

Welcome to my Christmas Focus series. Today we are featuring Kay Marshall Strom.
I have also enclosed some of Kay's books which would make a great Christmas gift.
Welcome Kay thank you for visiting us today.

1. Firstly thanks for coming back to my blog this time we are focusing on christmas.
What do you most associate with Christmas where you live?
Christmas carols, festive decorations. I spent most of my life in Southern California where the weather is sunny and bright at Christmas, but just last year moved to the Pacific Northwest where I have a whole new respect for songs about chilly weather and snowmen.

2. Do you have any special family traditions you do at Christmas time?
One year when we were going through dire financial hardships I did all my Christmas shopping at second hand shops. Each of my two children got a “new” used outfit and one toy, then I filled the empty space under the tree with withdrawn library books wrapped in Sunday comics. The books were such a hit that we kept including them as an important part of our Christmas giving. It’s been over twenty years, yet last week when I talked to my daughter about Christmas plans, her first response was, “I can’t wait to get my books!” (Jenny here sounds like a great tradition)


3. Do you have a favourite christmas Carol and if so do you know why?
Silent Night. It just seems to encapsulate the reason for the season.


4. If you could spend Christmas anyway you could how would you celebrate?
A candlelight church service on Christmas Eve, and on Christmas day, with the family doing everything the way we always do ever year. I love same old, same old tradition!


5. Do you have any special memories of Christmas?
By plan or by circumstance, we have spent several Christmases in unexpected ways, and each has brought its own unique blessing: As food basket recipients when my husband had been out of work for an entire year… in a vacationing neighbor’s house after our house burned to the ground… in Hawaii with my children after my first husband died, because we couldn’t bear to have our traditional Christmas at home… in India awakened at 1 a.m. by caroling church elders…

6. What is a typical Christmas eve and or Christmas day for you.
On Christmas eve, we follow the Swedish traditions of my first husband: Swedish meatballs for Christmas Eve dinner before a last night church service, fruit soup and Christmas bread for Christmas breakfast, labels on the gifts with the recipient being a hint as to what is in the gift (i.e. A flannel shirt may be from Paul Bunyan, new socks from Muhammad Ali, or books from Benjamin Franklin).


7. Do you have any Christmas movies or Christmas books you like to see or read each year? The Christmas Story! Who can resist Ralphie and his overwhelming desire for a Daisy Repeating Rifle despite the danger of shooting his eye out? (Jenny again I must watch this movie. I have read about the rifle in a christmas book just this week I must see it!)

8. Do you have a Christmas message for my readers? Jesus is born! May we pray together, “Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly!”

Forgotten Girls: Stories of Hope and Courage
This book tells the stories of the girls who lived in the hard places of the world, and what we can do to give them a hope and a future. The stories tell of pain, of inspiring courage, and of hard-won hope that demonstrate God working through compassionate people to rescue and restore the ones most often overlooked. Addressing physical suffering, education, sexual protection, prison, war and spiritual life, readers will find practical action steps and prayer points that will allow them to help free the forgotten.

Second-Half Adventure: Don't Retire-Use Your Time, Skills & Resources to Change the World A social worker from New England... a Texas airline pilot.. a homemaker from California... a lawyer who has lived everywhere... a quilter in Oregon. What do they have in common? All are on the adventure of their lives. Like many others among the 77 million baby boomers, these men and women don't want to retire from contributing when they retire from their careers. So they are using their time, skills, and resources to make a difference. Written in conjunction with Finishers Project, this book will help baby boomers discover a second-half adventure that fits them and counts for eternity.



In The Presence of the Poor: Changing the Face of India
"Why does God make so many poor people?" That is the question Dr. Vijayam, PhD, recipient of India's highest national science award, kept asking as he grew up. He could not get over the suffering, despair and seeming hopelessness all around him in India. In this deeply moving account of one man, whose life was profoundly changed by God, we see the power one life can make even in the most challenging of circumstances. Reaching across deep cultural chasms, Dr. Vijayam pioneered the idea of harnessing technology for the poor and using it in combination with cutting-edge microenterprise concepts. So what can one person do? Only change the world.

The Call of Zulina

In West Africa, 1787, Grace Winslow runs away to escape her betrothal---only to be swept up in a slave revolt that reveals the truth about her family's business! Threatened with death, Grace begins to understand the plight of the captives. Will African Cabeto---the man she admires most---sacrifice himself for his people's freedom? 352 pages, softcover from Abingdon.

Giveaway.

For one lucky Australian reader you have a chance to win a copy of The

Call of Zulina. Just leave a comment with a way to reach you (if I dont already have a way to contact you) by Friday, December 4th Midday.

Free Recipe from Kay Marshall Strom

Author Kay Marshall Strom has two great loves: writing and helping others achieve their own writing potential. Kay has written thirty-six published books, numerous magazine articles, and two screenplays. While mostly a nonfiction writer, the first book of her historical novel trilogy Grace in Africa has met with acclaim.

Kay speaks at seminars, retreats, writers’ conferences, and special events throughout the country and around the world. She is in wide demand as an instructor and keynote speaker at major writing conferences. She also enjoys speaking aboard cruise ships in exchange for exotic cruise destinations. Learn more about Kay at her website.

LEMON CHICKEN SOUP – SENEGAL, WEST AFRICA

This warm, mellow soup from Senegal, West Africa, can easily incorporate any extra turkey you have on hand. Just substitute it for the chicken.

You will need:

1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon curry powder
2 teaspoons flour
2 cups chicken broth
½ cup diced chicken (or turkey)
1 cup yogurt
juice of 1/2 fresh lemon
fresh chives, washed and snipped

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the curry powder and flour and cook 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually blend in the chicken broth and bring to a boil, continuing to stir constantly. Add diced chicken (or turkey).
Remove the kettle from the heat and cool the soup slightly. Gradually stir in the yogurt, a small amount at a time. Squeeze the juice from the lemon half and add the juice to the soup.
Garnish each bowl of soup with a dash of fresh chives.


The Women at the Well
Kay Marshall Strom

In Senegal, West Africa, I sat beside the community well, because that’s where the village women gathered. Out of the dusty wasteland they came, from every direction, their babies tied to their backs and their water containers balanced on their heads. They were glad to rest beside the well, for they had to walk many miles to get there. The average woman in the world, we are told, walks seven miles a day in her quest for water. When you factor in those of us who only walk to the kitchen to turn on the faucet, you can see that some must trek much farther than seven miles!

At the well, the women have a chance to catch up with the goings-on in neighboring villages, to air their complaints with one another, and to share their own news. And so I sat by the well with Obei and Helene, two Christian women in a country 98 percent Muslim, and waited to meet the women as they came for water.

And come they did.

A young woman came, sobbing over her baby son who was burning with fever. We prayed together in Jesus’ name that her baby would be healed.

A girl came and whispered her wish to learn to read, but said she could not because the walk to the well and back took her all day. Obei offered to teach her a little every day when she came for water. She started with: “For God so loved the world….”

A woman came with terror in her eyes and confided that her daughter must surely be a witch. Helene prayed for the girl, but also for the mother. “Do not believe what others tell you,” she warned the distraught mother. “Believe in the power of God.”

And Songa came. Obei and Helene had prayed with her before in Jesus’ name, and Songa had seen a miracle as her seriously ill son was healed. Now she too, was a follower of Christ. “My husband ordered me to renounce Jesus,” Songa told us. “When I would not, he threw me out of the house, but he kept my children. Please, please… pray for my little ones. Pray that they too will know the God of mercy and love.”

This holiday season, I am thankful for the women at the well in Senegal—all three of them, for Songa has joined the other two. I’m thankful for the lives they are touching in the name of Jesus. Most of all, I am thankful for the Living Water that flows freely for every one of us.

Spotlight on Christmas Novels with Missy Tippens

Today we are spotlighting A Forever Christmas by Missy Tippens. Welcome Missy thanks for sharing about your latest release. I haven't read this book yet but I know its on the way and Im looking forward to reading it.

1. Firstly can you tell us something about yourself we may not know or you would like to share?
Well, since we're talking about my Christmas book, I'll share something I hate to admit! Once when I was in high school, there was a gift under the tree that was driving me crazy! It was expertly wrapped and was from this really cool boutique where a lot of my friends shopped--but my mom had never taken me because it was so expensive. So I was just DYING to know what was in that package. And (here's the shameful part!), I snuck and opened it enough to see what was inside!! It was a gorgeous sweater. But I felt so horribly guilty I could hardly enjoy it! LOL

There, my secret is out. Please don't tell anyone! :) (Jenny here your secrets safe with us. I admit to having done the same thing.)

2. As this month I’m focusing on Christmas books can you tell us how you came to write a Christmas book?
I was actually plotting this book last year in December! And I was writing a blog post for the new Craftie Ladies of Romance blog where we were had a theme of the twelve days of Christmas. The idea for the book hit me while thinking of that blog post! (Jenny again, I remember those blog posts)


3. How did you come up with the title “A forever Christmas” it sounds really cool.

My previous book, His Forever Love, is about a town where there is a tree everyone calls The Forever Tree. Legend says that a couple that holds hands around the tree will have forever love. So when I was writing a Christmas story about the town, I knew I had to have the word Forever in the title. Plus, I wanted to hint at the fact that my hero and heroine would be having Christmases together…forever! :)

4. Did you find it easier having a topic?
You know, in some ways it’s easier. You automatically have a setting to work with—all the sights and sounds and smells and decorations. But in some ways it made it more difficult because it put me on a tight deadline for getting the book finished in time! :)

5. How did you come up with the characters for your story?

The hero was the brother of my heroine in His Forever Love, so I already had him basically set up. But I had to find just the heroine for him. I went through a few different versions of the story before I finally hit on one that my editor thought would work.

6. Do you have a message you hope readers take out of your story?

There’s a theme of forgiveness in this book—forgiveness of others and of ourselves (which is sometimes harder!). The theme Bible verse I chose (or maybe I should say that God chose for me) is:

For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is His love for those who fear Him. As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us. Psalms 103:11-12

7. Can you tell us a little about your book?

I’d love to! Here’s the back cover blurb:

Sarah Radcliffe’s quiet Christmas back in her hometown will be lost if she agrees to direct the church’s Christmas pageant. But when she meets two little boys determined to gain their father’s attention, Sarah agrees to help. Then she discovers that the dad in question is Gregory Jones, the man she loved and lost.
The single dad is working himself to the bone to give his boys the Christmas of their dreams, when all they want is some family time. Time that includes a new mommy. If Sarah can learn to open her heart, she may receive the most wonderful
present of all—a family of her own.


8. Do you have any upcoming projects you would like to share?

At this point, I’m waiting to hear on my next proposal. By the time you post this, I hope to have good news! :) (Jenny here on Missys blog today I read her proposal was accepted Congrats Missy)

9. Finally where can we find you one the net?

http://www.missytippens.com/, http://www.lifewithmissy.blogspot.com/, and you can find links for other group blogs. I hope you’ll visit me! And also, look for me on Facebook, Shoutlife, My Space, Goodreads, Shelfari.

Thanks for having me, Jenny!

My review of Love Finds You in Lonesome Prairie, Montana

Love Finds you in Lonesome Prairie Montana

by

Tricia Goyer & Ocieanna Fleiss
Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Summerside Press (December 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1935416294
ISBN-13: 978-1935416296

Product Description
Julia Cavanaugh has never left New York City. But in 1890, the young woman must head west to ensure that the orphans under her care are settled into good families. After her final stop in Montana, she plans to head straight back east. But upon arriving in the remote town of Lonesome Prairie, Julia learns to her horror that she is also supposed to be deliveredinto the hands of an uncouth miner who carries a bill of purchase for his new bride. She turns to a respected circuit preacher to protect her from a forced marriage but with no return fare and few friends, Julias options are bleak. What is Gods plan for her in the middle of the vast Montana prairie?

My Review:

I enjoyed this book. I love historical and this was another good read. As Julia travels to Lonesome Prairie shes reads dime novels on the wild west. She finds out that the novels are nothing like the real west. She has a bond with the girls in her care as she to is an orphan. I enjoyed how Julia cared for the girls and felt for her when she had to say goodbye to them. When she finds out shes been sold to a miner this causes lots of problems. She turns to Issac the circuit preacher for help. Add a couple of well intentioned sisters, the accidental death of Issac's mentor which starts a chain of events you have a good story. I also found it good how simple folk can sometimes have very profound insights that more well educated people completely miss.

If you like Historical romance I think you will enjoy the book.

CFBA Tour Loss of Carrier by Russ White

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Loss Of Carrier

BookSurge Publishing (October 27, 2009)

by

Russ White



ABOUT THE AUTHOR



Russ White is an internationally recognized internetwork engineer. He has co-authored eight books in the field of network design and routing
protocols and is a regular speaker at international networking conferences.

In addition to working on several expert and senior-level network engineering certifications, he is a certified firearms instructor.

Russ, his wife, and their two children live in the Raleigh area of North Carolina, where they enjoy spending time on Jordan Lake and attending Colonial Baptist Church. Loss of Carrier is his first novel.


ABOUT THE BOOK



Bright yellow cables against a blue shirt? Carl never would have approved of that color combination. Why was his face so white? His eyes should be closed, not open. Why hadn’t one of the security guards seen this and reported it to the police? The lights were off, the cameras were useless in the dark.



Of course, the cables wrapped around Carl’s neck explained why the server wasn’t working. Loss of carrier.



Jess Wirth lives a dreary life. He spends most of his time crammed inside a cubicle, toiling as a network engineer and stewing over the details of his ugly divorce. But when he finds his co-worker dead in the basement of their office, Jess’s life takes a surprising—and unpleasant—turn.



The police quickly declare the death a suicide, but Jess isn’t so sure. Not long after he begins digging into the victim’s work, another co-worker turns up dead, convincing him once and for all that something sinister is brewing behind the cubicle walls.



His investigation leads him to a mysterious woman name Leah, who pushes him to entrust her with the information he’s collected about his dead colleagues. Wary of Leah’s motives yet inexorably drawn to her, Jess keeps her at arm’s length...until an attempt is made on both their lives. Realizing they are close on the trail of a dangerous criminal, the pair race to expose a data theft ring before they become the killer’s next victims.



If you would like to read the first chapter of Loss Of Carrier, go HERE

wildcard tour Love finds you in Lonesome Prairie, Montana by Tricia Goyer and Ocieanna Fleiss

Check the give away at the bottom or the link on the right.

it is time for a FIRST Wild Card Tour book review! If you wish to join the FIRST blog alliance, just click the button. We are a group of reviewers who tour Christian books. A Wild Card post includes a brief bio of the author and a full chapter from each book toured. The reason it is called a FIRST Wild Card Tour is that you never know if the book will be fiction, non~fiction, for young, or for old...or for somewhere in between! Enjoy your free peek into the book!

You never know when I might play a wild card on you!

Today's Wild Card authors are:

Tricia Goyer
and
Ocieanna Fleiss

and the book:

Love Finds You In Lonesome Prairie, Montana

Summerside Press (December 1, 2009)

***Special thanks to Amy Lathrop of LitFUSE Publicity Group for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Tricia Goyer was named Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference "Writer of the Year" in 2003. Her book Night Song won Book of the Year from ACFW in the Long Historical Fiction category. Her book Life Interrupted: The Scoop On Being a Young Mom was a Gold Medallion Finalist. Tricia has written hundreds of articles, Bible Study notes, and both fiction and non-fiction books.

Visit the author's website.



Ocieanna Fleissis a published writer and has edited six of Tricia Goyer's historical novels. She lives with her husband and their four children in the Seattle area. Connect with Ocieanna on Facebook!



Product Details:

List Price: $12.99
Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Summerside Press (December 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1935416294
ISBN-13: 978-1935416296

AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:

The sound of little girls’ voices and the sight of the sun streaming through the tall, second-story window of the Open Door Home for Destitute Girls, a privately owned orphanage on upper Manhattan, told nineteen-year-old Julia Cavanaugh that the day had started without her. Julia, an orphan herself, now running the place for the owner, brushed a strand of dark hair from her eyes. She submitted to a second yawn as a twelve-year-old girl hopped onto her bed.

“He’s gonna ask her to marry him, don’t you think, Miss Cavanaugh?”

“Oh, Shelby.” Julia wiped the sleep from her eyes and smiled into the freckled face staring eagerly at her. “Give me a moment to wake before you go asking such things.” Julia stroked the girl’s cheek, her heart seeming to double within her chest with love for the youngster.

The embroidery sampler she’d fallen asleep working on still lay at the end of her bed. She picked it up and eyed the image of a small house she’d copied from Godey’s Lady’s Book. Above the house, she’d stitched the words Home Sweet Home in fancy script. Gazing around the broad room lined with small metal cots and bustling with little-girl chatter, Julia noted the embroidered pillowslips, carefully pressed—albeit dingy—curtains, and dandelions smiling from scavenged jam-jar vases. She’d done her best to make the room pleasant for the girls—and herself. She glanced at their faces and smiled, gladly embracing her role as caretaker.

A less-than-subtle “ahem” from Shelby reminded Julia she’d been asked a question. She glanced at her young charge, still perched on the end of her bed. “What did you ask?”

“Finally.” Shelby eyed her with mock frustration. “I said, do you think they will get married—Mrs. Hamlin and Mr. Gaffin? Haven’t you noticed the way they look at each other?” Shelby’s cheeks hinted of red. Her golden hair was already fixed in a proper bun, her hands and face washed, and her simple dress clean and pressed despite its patches and stray threads.

“Shelby Bruce.” Julia shook her head, as Shelby’s two-year-old sister Beatrice wiggled onto Julia’s lap with a squeal. Julia planted a firm kiss on the top of Bea’s head.

“Married? I don’t think so,” Julia continued. “Mrs. Hamlin would’ve told us—told me—if she was being courted. Mr. Gaffin’s just an old family friend.” Julia wondered where on earth the girl got the notion that their headmistress wished to marry.

Although they have been spending a lot of time together. Julia pushed the thought out of her mind as little Bea shuffled to a stand, planting her pint-sized feet on Julia’s thighs. “Fammy fend!” She pointed a chubby finger at her older sister, Shelby.

“All right, Bea.” Julia plopped the toddler on the floor and swiveled her toward the small bed she shared with Shelby. “Time to straighten your bed.” Then Julia eyed the twins. “Charity, Grace, would you two virtuous girls fetch fresh water for the basin?”

Shelby pushed away from the bed, wrinkled her brow, and thrust her hand behind her as if to support her back—a perfect imitation of their middle-aged headmistress. “Now where did I put my spectacles?” Shelby clucked her tongue as she waddled forward.

Laughter spilled from the lips of the girls around the room. Encouraged, Shelby scratched her head. She plopped down on her bed then hopped up again as if surprised, pulling imaginary spectacles from under her rump. “Oh!” she squealed. “There they are.”

The laughter grew louder, and Julia pursed her lips together to smother the impulse to laugh along with them. She planted her fists on her hips. “That’s enough. All of you know what must be done before breakfast.” The girls’ laughter quieted to soft giggles hidden behind cupped palms as they scattered to do their chores.

Shelby lingered behind, her form now straight and her eyes pensive. “Maybe she forgot to tell you, Miss Cavanaugh.” The young girl gazed up at her. “The way they look at each other—it’s like my ma and pa used to, that’s all.”

Julia folded a stray sandy blond curl behind the girl’s ear. “Don’t worry, my sweet. If Mrs. Hamlin was getting married, we’d be the first to know.”

Julia hoped her own gaze didn’t reflect the sinking disquiet that draped her. Mr. Gaffin was a rich world traveler. If there was any truth to Shelby’s suspicion, Julia couldn’t imagine he’d let Mrs. Hamlin continue to work with orphans. Perhaps they’d get a new headmistress.

Or maybe the girls would be separated, moved to new homes…

If Mrs. Hamlin got married, all their lives would be radically changed. And if Julia had to leave the orphanage, she had no idea what she would do. Julia swept that painful thought away and steadied her gaze at Shelby. She couldn’t hide her true feelings from this girl. Julia took Shelby’s hand and answered as honestly as she could.

“I don’t think she’ll get married, but if she does, God will take care of us, like He always has.” Julia lifted her chin in a smile. “And really, Mrs. Hamlin may be forgetful, but no one could forget that. I sure wouldn’t.”

Ardy, a shy Swedish girl, removed her dirty sheets from a small bed and then approached, taking Julia’s hand. “Don’t ya think you’ll ever be gettin’ married?”

“Actually, there is something I’ve been wanting to tell you all….” Julia leaned forward, resting her hands on her knees.

The two girls eyed each other in surprise, and Shelby’s brow furrowed.

“Come closer.” Julia curled a finger, bidding them.

“What is it?” Shelby asked, her eyes glued to Julia.

The girls leaned in. “I’d like to tell you…that there’s a wonderful man who’s asked me to marry him!”

The squeals of two girls erupted, followed by the cheers of nearly three dozen others who’d been quietly listening from the stairwell.

“There is?” Shelby reached forward and squeezed Julia’s hand.

Julia let out a hefty sigh and giggled. “No, you sillies. Well, at least not yet. Someday. Maybe.”

Shelby pouted “But you said… ”

“I said I’d like to tell you I had a man. I’d sure like to, but of course since I don’t, I’m happy to stay here with all of you.”

The girls moaned.

The squeak of the front door down on the first floor of the Revolutionary War–era home-turned-orphanage drew their attention. They waited as Mrs. Hamlin’s familiar chortle filled the air, along with a bash and clang of items—hopefully food and supplies that she’d picked up.

“Julia!” Mrs. Hamlin yelped. “Julia, dear, where are you?”

“Coming.” Julia hurried down the stairs to help the older woman.

Julia neared the bottom of the steps and paused, trying to stifle a laugh at the sight of the twinkly-eyed woman sprawled flat on her back. Scattered boxes and bags covered the donated rug.

“Mrs. Hamlin! What on earth? Why didn’t you get a steward to help you?”

“Oh, I didn’t want to be a bother.” She cheerfully picked herself up. “I was in such a hurry to show you all what I’d bought. And to tell you my surprise. Such a wonderful surprise.” Julia eyed the boxes and noted they were from R.H. Macy & Co. More than a dozen boxes waited to be opened, and she couldn’t imagine the cost.

“I found just what the girls need, and on sale!” the headmistress exclaimed.

What they need is more food—vitamin drops, too—and maybe a few new schoolbooks. But Julia didn’t dare say it. And somehow God’s hand of providence always provided.

“New clothes, I gather. That is a surprise.”

“But only half of it, dear.” Mrs. Hamlin rubbed her palms expectantly. “I also must tell you my news. The best news an old widow could hope for.”

Julia followed Mrs. Hamlin’s gaze toward the idle youngsters who’d gathered on the staircase to watch. Her eyes locked with Shelby’s, then she quickly looked away. “News?” The muscles in Julia’s stomach tightened.

“Girls,” Julia shooed them away with a wave of her hand, “you know better than to eavesdrop. Off to chores with you. We’ll have breakfast soon.”

The girls started to scurry off, but Mrs. Hamlin halted them with her words.

“No, no,” her high-pitched voice hailed. “Come back. This news is for all of you.” They circled around her, and she tenderly patted their bobbing heads.

“What is it?” Julia wasn’t sure she’d ever seen Mrs. Hamlin’s cheeks so rosy or her eyes so bright.

“I’m getting married!”

The authors, Tricia and Ocieanna, have put together one humdinger of a contest for this blog tour! Enter the Fall in Love With Lonesome Prairie Contest and WIN a perty Montana Gift Basket!

To enter, simply fill out the entry form (http://www.triciagoyer.com/contest.html ), (then tell 5 or more friends about the contest)! The winner will be announced December 14th, just in time for an old-fashioned Montana Christmas. Giddy-up!

The Winner of our ‘Fall in Love with Lonesome Prairie’ giveaway will receive a fantastic Montana Gift Basket, including:
*Winter fleece throw
*Huckleberry chocolate bar
*Paula Dean candle
*Burt’s Bees gift set
*Wild Huckleberry taffy
*Montana stationary notebook
*Montana greeting card set
*Montana ball cap
*Montana apron
*Montana refrigerator magnet
*Charlie Russell 2010 Montana Calendar

I am half way through this book and will put up my review when I finish. I am loving the book so far.

WHISKERS, WIT, AND WISDOM by Niki Anderson

Whiskers, Wit, and Wisdom

True Cat Tales and the Lessons They Teach

by Niki Anderson

Howard Books (July 7, 2009)

ISBN: 978-1416590682

WHISKERS, WIT, AND WISDOM

True Cat Tales and the Lessons They Teach

A Book Even Dog Owners Will Love

(THE WOODLANDS, TX) Niki Anderson delights cat lovers with a new release of 45 kitty stories filled with wisdom, both feline and divine. Tales of mischief and narratives of compassion serve as a bridge to the heart of cat owners among the 90 million cats in America. Each true account points the reader to a loving God. Biblical concepts spring naturally from every story and focus on themes like service, trust, opportunity, and courage.

This charming collection of pussycat purr-spectives, enhanced with full page photos of cats and kittens, offers the refreshing surprise that lessons abound in good and not-so-good experiences with cats. Feline fur-iends like Maxwell, Lily, and Cinnamon, shed wit and wisdom on human challenges.

Worried about a teen? Through a kitten named Lucky, readers observe God's mercy on the young and reckless. Waiting for a break? Like Kitty, leap on opportunity. Put off by tough types? Try offering friendship, like Danger.

Numerous truths unfold from the antics, habits, and endearments of cats in their various predicaments and services:

• living in a tree
  
• facing death in a snow bank
  
• bringing cheer at a prison
  
• surviving 9-11
  
• comforting the cancer-stricken
  
• leaving a memorial after Hurricane Katrina

Each story begins with a Bible verse and a sentence Purr-rayer that launches the story (Dear God, deliver me from the arrogance of unfounded and arbitrary judgments).

Included is a humor quip of Kitty Wit (The house belongs to the cat; we just pay the mortgage), and a snippet of fact in The Tail End (A tabby cat is not a breed, but a color pattern of stripes or whorls or even spots), and a biographical note describing the cat’s owner, like Libby Riddles, the first woman to win the Iditerod.

“With a researcher’s verve, a journalist’s precision, and a contemplative’s heart, Anderson teaches as well as entertains,” says consulting editor and reviewer Laurie Klein. “Each story opens with a fetching photo-op…and closes with musings that never wag a finger.”

In stories that portray the nature of cats and reveal the character of God, readers gain practical help from the fur-coated tutorship in Whiskers, Wit, and Wisdom.

NIKI ANDERSON AND MYLES

Best known for her cat books, Niki Anderson is the author of bestseller, What My Cat Has Taught Me About Life, and has received three Angel Awards for literature that promotes ethical and moral excellence. She composes unusual and factual stories that enamor readers and offer insight for wise and godly living. Her books of meditations for cat fanciers have sold over 340,000 copies in the US and are translated in Japanese and Thai.

__________________________________

"Each story satisfies the soul. Beyond that, the unique format offers feline
trivia, humor, and prayer. I bought a copy for a friend and she reads one story
to her cat every night!"
Anne F. Kleehammer

___________________________________

"Great stories with Biblical applications make the purrrfect start for my day or
a quick afternoon pick up. Impeccable writing and wonderful layout--this book
makes a great gift."
Cindy
Scinto
_______________________________

"Truly uplifting stories about cats whose loyalty, wisdom and intriguing antics
have amazed us all for years. And the life-lessons Ms. Anderson draws in each
account are equally worth our sincere reflection."
James Vasquez,
PhD, MDiv

_______________________________

CFBA Tour Eternity falls by Kirk Outerbridge

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Eternity Falls
Marcher Lord Press (October 1, 2009)
by
Kirk Outerbridge


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Kirk Outerbridge developed a passion for storytelling at an early age. Through years of reading Fantasy and Science Fiction novels, comics, table top gaming and watching endless hours Japanese anime, he developed a keen sense for what made stories enjoyable and more importantly—what didn’t.

While pursuing an engineering degree in college, Kirk endeavored to tell his own stories, choosing writing as the easiest and cheapest medium to master—or so he thought. Several years and several hundred thousand words later, he produced a Sci-fi trilogy that shall never (God willing) see the light of day, but that did teach him much needed lessons about the craft of writing fiction.

After college Kirk returned to his homeland of Bermuda where he reunited with his childhood friend and future wife, Ria. But before marrying his lovely wife, Kirk entered an even greater marriage and devoted his life to Christ in 2002.

With a new found direction in life, writing fell by the wayside but the urge to tell futuristic stories never left. After much prayer and contemplation, Kirk purposed his writing for God’s Will, seeking to draw to Christ those who shared his passions for all things futuristic and Sci-fi.

Kirk currently lives with his wife Ria and 18 month old son Miles in beautiful Bermuda. He is a faithful member of the Church of Christ and is a professional engineer employed by the government.



ABOUT THE BOOK

In the future, death is only a problem if you can’t afford the price. Such is the promise of Gentec Corporation’s “Miracle Treatment”, a genetic anti-aging elixir that grants eternal life—or does it?

When a Gentec client suddenly dies of natural causes, the powers that be will stop at nothing to ensure their version of eternity remains unchallenged; even if it means concocting a religious sabotage conspiracy to cover a lie.

With the media about to blow the story wide open, the credibility of Gentec and the lives of millions of clients rest on one man’s ability to uncover the truth.
Enter detective Rick Macey, religious counterterrorist expert and Gentec executive Sheila Dunn’s last hope for salvation.

Now with the clock ticking and the corporate brass seeking their own solution at any cost, Macey must track down a religious zealot out to destroy the Miracle Treatment for good.

But when Macey finds himself not only falling for his client, but confronted with the possibility that the culprit could hold a connection to his shaded past, the truth suddenly becomes a dangerous thing.

Only through a test of faith can he stop the crisis before it’s all too late and eternity falls.

If you would like to read an excerpt from Chapter 1 of Eternity Falls, go HERE

Spotlight on Christmas Novels with Lena Nelson Dooley

Welcome to spotlight on Chirstmas novels with Lena Nelson Dooley. Lena has 2 novella's out also and has told us about both books. I have read both books and really loved them.
Welcome Lena.

1. Firstly can you tell us a little about yourself?

I am a wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. I live in Texas where I'm a full-time novelist. I speak several times a year to women's groups, writers groups, or conferences.


2. How did you come to be an author is it something you always wanted to be?

Actually, God told me to become a professional writer back in 1984. The story is pretty amazing. You can read all about it at the bottom of the main page on my web site: http://www.lenanelsondooley.com/

3. As this month I’m focusing on Chritstmas books and Lena has 2 Novellas focus on both books first I am focusing on Wild West Christmas. How did you go about collaborating for this collection?

Wild West Christmas was a fun book to work on. I knew all three of the other writers, and we work very well together. Our ideas meshed really well, so the book shows the strengths of each of us in interesting stories of four sisters living in Texas.

4. How did you find the topic and was it easy to write for you?

Since this is my first completely Texas story, I loved writing it. I think Kathleen Y'Barbo may have been the one to come up with the idea. She and I both live in Texas. The other two authors live in adjoining states.

5. How did you come up with the charactors for your story?

Actually, I pray about the stories. God helps the imagination he created me with to come up with interesting people for the novels.

6. Do you have a message you hope readers take out of your story?

First impression can be deceiving, and don't be judgmental.

7. Can you tell us a little about your story?

A working cowgirl, who can also be a refined lady, meets an uptight accountant from Boston. Through the story they both change.

8. Do you have any upcoming projects you would like to share?

I'm finishing writing my first Summerside Press book Love Finds You in Golden, New Mexico, which will release in May 2010.

9. Finally where can we find you on the net?

I'm a lot of places:

http://www.lenanelsondooley.com/
http://lenanelsondooleynewsletter.blogspot.com/ - Monthly free book
http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com/ - Author interviews/Free books
http://www.bustlesandspurs.com/ - Regular Blogger
www.facebook.com/lena.nelson.dooley
Www.twitter.com/lenandooley
www.shoutlife.com/lenanelsondooley


Now focusing on Christmas Love at Lake Tahoe How did you go about collaborating for this collection?
Since the stories take place in the same time period, we really had to coordinate our stories.

How did you find the topic and was it easy to write for you?
Jeanie Smith Cash contacted us with the story idea.

How did you come up with the charactors for your story?
Actually, I borrowed a couple of my grandson's friends for two of the characters. The others just came to me.

Do you have a message you hope readers take out of your story?
You can't go through life being fearful. It shows you lack of trust in God.

Can you tell us a little about your story?
It's about college roommates working at a new ski lodge after they graduate. I thought it would be interesting if my heroine didn't like to ski or take any kind of risk and the hero was a daredevil, who really only did what he knew he could handle.

My review: Christmas love at Lake Tahoe

Format: Paperback

Number of Pages: 352

Vendor: Barbour PublishingPublication

ISBN: 1602605637

ISBN-13: 9781602605633

Product Description:

Reserve time for romance in this inspirational Christmas collection where four college grads major in love at a Lake Tahoe lodge. After meeting a handsome paramedic, registered nurse Bethany Stillman discovers there are some wounds only God can heal. A cautious Scarlett McKaye is reluctant to risk her heart to a handsome daredevil who won’t take no for an answer. Stephanie St. John is determined to spurn the advances of a manipulative businessman. Michaela Christiansen’s resolve for a male-free existence is threatened by a widowed forest ranger. Will love lodge in the hearts of these career-minded women?

My Review:

I just finished this Novella this morning and really enjoyed it also. Its a contempory setting with 4 girls who are out of College and all working at a ski lodge owned by one of the girls grand parents. Each story is about one of the girls and we see them deal with different issues. I love again how the stories interwind but are separate. Its good getting to know all 4 girls and seeing how different they are. I love how the stories are all centered around the Snowbird lodge and the 4 girls. It made me want to go to the lodge and experience the magic there.

Another great read. (I just love christmas stories.)

This book was purchased by me.

My review of A Blue and Gray Christmas

Paperback

Number of Pages: 352

Vendor: Barbour PublishingPublication

ISBN: 1602605653

ISBN-13: 9781602605657

Product discussion:

Surrender yourself to the forces of love in four engaging Civil War Christmas romances. Join up with Leah Woods as she searches for her missing fiance in Fredericksburg, Virginia. Stick to your guns with Arabella Lambert as she pledges her allegiance to pacifist Barry Birch, a man labeled a coward. Ride out the storm with Rachel Thornton as she resists her attraction to the wounded artist James Galloway. Saddle up with Confederate-born Hannah McIntosh as she falls for Chris Haley, an embittered Union soldier. Can these couples forge an everlasting union in the tide of civil war?

My Review:

I have always been interested in the Civil War era and this is an interesting novella. Each Story is at a different year in the war starting around the time of the battle of Fredericksburg. Each story is complete on its own but the certral theme is the Civil War. We see the best and worst in people during this time. I really enjoyed the way each story played out and the lessons we can still learn today from these stories. I can't imagine what it would be like to be at war with my neighbouring state (we are around 10 minutes from the border) and the devestation war brings.

This is a great novella and I just love the cover.

This book was purchased by me.

My Review of A Wild West Christmas

Paperback

Number of Pages: 352

Vendor: Barbour Publishing

Publication Date: 2009
ISBN: 1602605661

ISBN-13: 9781602605664

Product discription:

Romance takes root in the lives of a Texas rancher's four daughters. Charlsey Ames loves being a cowhand until a dandy tenderfoot from the city begins opening her eyes to unexplored territory. Sharpshooter Lucy Ames takes a shot at love while traveling with a Wild West show. Horse-trainer Sarah Ames finds herself falling for a suspicious drifter with a gentle hand. Tracker Bessie Mae Ames is being trailed by a handsome yet guarded Texas Ranger. Will love corral these Lone Star ladies hearts this Christmas?

My Review:

I love Christmas novellas and enjoyed this one. Each story featured one of the Ame's daughters. As there are no sons each daughter is very good at one skill used in the west.

I love how each of the story plays out each girl is so different and its interesting to see how the family react and how each one finds love. This is a lovely Christmas book. I love how the stories are all related but different.

This book was purchased by me.

CFBA Tour What the Bayou Saw by Patti Lacy

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
What The Bayou Saw
Kregel Publications (March 24, 2009)
by
Patti Lacy

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Though Patti's only been writing since 2005, she thinks her latest profession of capturing stories on paper (or computer files) will stick awhile.

The Still, Small Voice encouraged Patti to write after a brave Irish friend shared memories of betrayal and her decision to forgive. In 2008, An Irishwoman’s Tale was published by Kregel Publications. Patti’s second novel, What the Bayou Saw, draws on the memories of two young girls who refused to let segregation, a chain link fence, and a brutal rape come between them.

The secrets women keep and why they keep them continue to enliven Patti's gray matter. A third book, My Name is Sheba, has been completed. Patti's WIP, Recapturing Lily, documents a tug-of-war between a Harvard-educated doctor and an American pastor and his wife for a precious child and explores adoption issues, China's "One Child" policy, and both Christian and secular views of sacrifice.

Patti also facilitates writing seminars in schools, libraries, and at conferences and has been called to present her testimony, "All the Broken Pieces," at women's retreats. She also leads a Beth Moore Bible study at her beloved Grace Church.

Patti and her husband Alan, an Illinois State faculty member, live in Normal with their handsome son Thomas, who attends Heartland Community College. On sunny evenings, you can catch the three strolling the streets of Normal with their dog Laura, whom they've dubbed a "Worchestershire Terrier" for her "little dab of this breed, a little dab of that breed.



ABOUT THE BOOK


Segregation and a chain link fence separated twelve-year-old Sally Flowers from her best friend, Ella Ward. Yet a brutal assault bound them together. Forever. Thirty-eight years later, Sally, a middle-aged Midwestern instructor, dredges up childhood secrets long buried beneath the waters of a Louisiana bayou in order to help her student, who has also been raped. Fragments of spirituals, gospel songs, and images of a Katrina-ravaged New Orleans are woven into the story.


The past can't stay buried forever Rising author Patti Lacy's second novel exposes the life of Sally, set amid the shadows of prejudice in Louisiana.

Since leaving her home in the South, Sally Stevens has held the secrets of her past at bay, smothering them in a sunny disposition and sugar-coated lies. No one, not even her husband, has heard the truth about her childhood.

But when one of her students is violently raped, Sally's memories quickly bubble to the surface unbidden, like a dead body in a bayou. As Sally's story comes to light, the lies she's told begin to catch up with her. And as her web of deceit unravels, she resolves to face the truth at last, whatever the consequences.

If you would like to read the first chapter of What The Bayou Saw, go HERE

Watch the Book Trailer:

A link to my review is here

winners

Carrie won the book by Susan Page Davis,

Laetitia goes into the drawer for the Set apart biblestudies

Cheryl goes into the drawer for the christmas basket

Monkey Momma goes into the drawer for the coffee cup giveaway.

Carrie went into the Kay Marshall Strom drawer but unfortunately didn't win.

Spotlight on Christmas Novels with Vickie McDonough part 2

Welcome back to part two of my interview with Vickie McDonough. I am half way through this novella and hope to finish it in the next day or so. I haven't posted the first review yet partly because we are suffering through a heatwave and the heat is making me quite tired. But I will post the reviews by the weekend.

1.This month I’m focusing on Christmas books, and Vickie has 2 novellas out. Today we are focusing on Wild West Christmas. How did you go about collaborating for this collection?

Originally, my anthology team was going to do a series set near the Red River, which divides Texas and Oklahoma, but we decided to move it to the Texas Hill Country. More discussion occurred, and we decided to write stories about four sisters who live on a ranch. Each sister has a special ability like roping or tracking. Since there are no sons to help the father run the ranch, it falls to the daughters. The stories are set one year apart, and each sister finds romance around Christmastime.

2. How did you find the topic and was it easy to write for you?


I’ve always been a fan of cowboy shows. I grew up watching them in the ‘60s and have always loved horses. Writing historicals seems to come easy for me. It’s my favorite genre to read, as well as write.

3. How did you come up with the characters for your story?


That’s a hard question. They come in different ways. For Sarah, my heroine in WWC, I decided her special talent would be horse training. I owned several horses when I was younger and felt I could write a book about that fairly easily. I’d had Conner, my hero, on my mind for a while and was waiting until the right story came along. He’s half Scottish and half Mexican, and has endured being a half-breed all his life. He longs to be accepted for the man he is on the inside.

4. Do you have a message you hope readers take out of your story?

No matter who you are or what color your skin is, if you make yourself available to God, He will direct your path.

5. Can you tell us a little about your story?


Here’s the back cover blurb about my novella:

Although horse-trainer Sarah Ames is stunned when her pa hires the part-Mexican Carson Romero to take over her job on the ranch, she gradually becomes attracted to the handsome drifter. But when cattle go missing, Carson seems the main suspect. Has Carson stolen Sarah's heart as well as some prime longhorns?

6. Do you have any upcoming projects you would like to share?

Yes, I’m very excited to announce my Texas Boardinghouse Brides series. The first book in the series releases April, 2010 and is called The Anonymous Bride. It’s the story of a town marshal who suddenly has a trio of mail-order brides arrive in town, each one expecting to marry him. A bride contest ensues to see which gal would make the best wife. The first competition is a pie making contest, but instead of three entries, there are four, the last one being from an anonymous competitor.

7. Finally where can we find you on the net?

vickiemcdonough.com

Also, I’m a regular contributor on the Bustles and Spurs blog, which focuses on inspirational books with a western flare. www.bustlesandspurs.com

Thanks for taking part in Christmas books in Nov. (I will find a better title before November!)

Thanks so much for inviting me!

One thing I’d like to mention is that I’m developing an online mailing list. If you’d like to receive quarterly reports from me and new release info, please send your email to me at fictionfan1@cox.net

Please note this is not a giveaway. Giveaways are listed on the right of the blog.

CFBA Tour A Prisoner of Versaille by Golden Keyes Parson

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
A Prisoner of Versaille
Thomas Nelson (September 1, 2009)
by
Golden Keyes Parsons


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

In her deep plowing of the heart, moving from tears one moment to laughter the next, Golden will touch your heart with her dynamic Bible teaching, combined with her vivid personal examples, moving from tears one moment, to laughter the next, all the while communicating the message that God is faithful--keep trusting Him. She has a passion to communicate the Word of God in such a manner that will lead to godly living.

Golden, and her husband, Blaine, have just retired as pastors at Faith Mountain Fellowship Church in Red River, NM. They have three grown daughters and eight grandchildren. Her testimony and myriad of life experiences lend a touch of authenticity to her teaching. She loves to speak for women's conferences, seminars, luncheons, retreats and Mother/Daughter events.

If deep Bible teaching that brings the Scriptures alive is what you want, Golden is the speaker you need.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Madeleine's faith puts her at odds with an intimidating rival: King Louis XIV.

Having fled their homeland of France because of the persecution by Louis XIV, the Clavell family seeks refuge in Switzerland. However, the king is not about to let the recently widowed Madeleine, his childhood sweetheart, escape that easily. He sends musketeers to kidnap her and her oldest son, Philippe, holding them captive in his opulent palace. King Louis is suspicious that Philippe could be his son, and he's enraged by the growing affection of one of his courtiers for Madeleine.

Will Madeleine escape the king with her life or lose everything that she's fought so hard to keep?

If you would like to read the first chapter of A Prisoner of Versaille , go HERE

Spotlight on Christmas Novels with Vickie McDonough part 1

Welcome to my secont spotlight on Christmas Novels with Vickie McDonough. As Vickie has 2 novella's out I am featuring both books this week. Part 2 will be Thursday.

I have finished the first book A Blue and Grey Christmas last night and loved it. I bought the 4 of the Christmas novellas and started with this one. Will put up my review hopefully tomorrow.

1. Firstly can you tell us a little about yourself?
Certainly. I’m a wife of thirty-four years, mother of four sons, have a great daughter-in-law, and a feisty three-year-old granddaughter. I’ve lived all of my life in Oklahoma, except for one year (1975-76) when I lived on a kibbutz in Israel with my husband and a group of other young people from our church. I’ve been writing for eight & a half years now. When I’m not writing, I love read, watching my favorite TV shows or a movie, meeting with my friends, gardening, and traveling.

2. How did you come to be an author; is it something you always wanted to be?
Actually, I never dreamed I become a writer. In school, I was a math lover and didn’t care for writing or English. I think it’s just a God thing. I believe writing novels is what He has for me for this time of my life. Almost nine years ago, I got a story idea running through my mind. It was keeping me awake at night and disrupting my life. I decided to try writing it down to see if it would go away, but it didn’t. After I completed it, another idea followed right on its heals. I finally figured God was trying to get my attention, and I jumped in with both feet, attending conferences, taking writing classes, reading books on writing and joining writings groups, both online and locally.

3. This month I’m focusing on Christmas books, and Vickie has 2 novellas out. I am going to do a 2-day interview, first focusing on A Blue and Gray Christmas. How did you go about collaborating for this collection?
I had a friend who asked me to be a part of this collection. We considered several options but decided on a collection that wasn’t linked except by the Civil War theme.

4. How did you find the topic and was it easy to write for you?
I’ve had my story, Beloved Enemy, for a long time. At first, I thought about proposing it as a long book, but I felt it would work better as a novella. When I was asked to be on this team, I already had my story idea.

5. How did you come up with the characters for your story?
I’ve had this story partially written that I honestly can’t remember how I came up with it? I just know this story has been on my heart a long time.

6. Do you have a message you hope readers take out of your story?
Yes, it’s a message of forgiveness.

7.Can you tell us a little about your story?
The premise is: An embittered Union soldier returns home to discover half his family is dead. He despises all southerners. He is quite taken though, by the young woman who has been living with his mother and helping care for her and the ranch. She is suffering from laryngitis, and he falls hard for the kind, compassionate woman before learning the truth—that she is a southerner. --

Blogtour and giveaway "'Tis the Season...For Christmas Miracles"

Christmas Miracles
Cecil Murphey/Marley Gibson
Foreword: Don Piper
St. Martin’s Press, Oct. 2009
Hardcover, 256 pages
ISBN: 978-0312589837
Retail: $14.99

Award-winning writer Cecil Murphey is the author or co-author of 114 published books, including the NY Times bestseller90 Minutes in Heaven (with Don Piper) and Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story (with Dr. Ben Carson). He’s also the author ofWhen Someone You Love Has Cancer and When God Turned Off the Lights, both 2009 releases. Murphey’s books have sold millions and have given hope and encouragement to countless readers around the world. For more information, visit http://www.cecilmurphey.com/

Marley Gibson is a young adult author whose first published books in the Sorority 101 series were released by Penguin Group in 2008 under the pen name of Kate Harmon. She has a newGhost Huntress series with Houghton Mifflin written under her own name. She can be found online at http://www.marleygibson.com/.

(Atlanta, GA) Many ordinary people experience Christmas miracles—those special moments during the season of giving and receiving when Christmas becomes more than just a holiday. In Christmas Miracles (St. Martin’s Press, October 2009), Cecil Murphey and Marley Gibson share the stories of those who have recognized the special moments that transcend daily experience and transform their lives.
In these stories, people overcome desperate situations through a miraculous twist of fate—all during the most wonderful time of the year. A young boy sits down to read a Christmas book and discovers that his learning disability has vanished. A woman stranded in a blizzard is rescued by a mysterious stranger who she suspects is an angel. And a woman living far from home gets an answer to her prayer in the form of an unexpected gift.

Bestselling author Cecil Murphey says, “We all face discouraging times, whether it's the lack of money, being stuck on a road in a snowstorm, feeling stress, or being hungry and homeless. But God's help is available. I want readers to see that miracles do happen—sometimes simple, unexpected blessings or those that involve the supernatural. We start by asking, and in strange and wonderful ways God tiptoes into our dark nights; we experience renewed joy in life and witness God in action through people and unexpected events.”

Interview with Cecil “Cec” Murphey
by Marley Gibson
Co-authors of Christmas Miracles, from St. Martin’s Press

I am extremely privileged to have the opportunity today to talk to my friend and co-author, Cecil “Cec” Murphey, and to chat about our upcoming book, Christmas Miracles.
Marley: Cec, thanks for spending some time with me today.
Cec: Marley, it's great that you could take time away from important things like making a living to spend a little time with me.
Marley: I’m so jazzed about our Christmas Miracles book that’s coming out soon. I’ve had a lot of questions from folks wanting to know how we met, what brought us together, etc. So, I thought we’d do a back and forth on how it all came to be. Of course, I have to give props to our amazing agent and friend, Deidre Knight, for bringing us together. For those of you who don’t know, Cec co-authored the runaway New York Times bestselling hit 90 Minutes in Heaven with Don Piper.
Cec: I have to say thanks to Deidre Knight as well. Between Deidre and my assistant, Twila Belk, I've been able to sell quite a few books. 90 Minutes in Heavenhas been my big book. I'm also proud of a book I wrote in 1990 called Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story. The book has never been out of print and has hit close to four million in sales. Early this year, Cuba Gooding Jr. starred in the made-for-TV film version.
Marley: That’s amazing! You are truly prophetic and definitely “the man behind the words.” Now, people ask how we teamed up. Sadly, there was a personal tragedy that brought Cec and me together as friends.
Cec: True. In early 2007, our house burned and our son-in-law died. Aside from the grief over Alan, we lost everything. Deidre and Jan, my-then-assistant, sent the word out of our tragedy without telling me. I'm immensely grateful for every gift people sent, but I probably wouldn't have admitted I needed help and wouldn't have asked. They taught me how much we need other people.
Marley: Deidre put out a call to other clients of The Knight Agency, to help Cec and his family out in any way in their time of need. At the time, my company was moving and we were cleaning house. We had a ton of office supplies that we were either going to throw away or give to some of the charities the company worked with. I got my boss’ permission to send a large care package to Cec…full of office supplies for him to re-stock his writer’s office. You name it…post-its, staples, paper clips, pens, pencils, markers, white out, ruler, scissors, paper, notebooks, notepads, envelopes, a laptop case, tape, glue, folders, binder clips…etc. A veritable potpourri of office delights. I was hoping that it would help Cec have a sense of getting his office back so he could keep working.
Cec: Marley's gift was the most unexpected I received. We hadn't met, although Deidre Knight had spoken of her many times and kept telling me she was wonderful. I wonder if you can imagine what it was like for me to open that box from someone I didn't know. I saw all those practical things for my office and yelled for my wife. I felt as if I were reading a first-grade book. "Look! Look and see! Oh, look!" I was overwhelmed by the gift and even more to receive it from a stranger. Those supplies were the most practical gift anyone could have given me. I'm still using black paper clips and red folders from Marley.
Marley: Awww…thanks, Cec! I didn’t have to think twice about doing it. Writing is such a solitary “sport,” but the writing community always astounds me with how they help their own. Not long after that, over plates of spinach and Gouda omelets, Deidre introduced me to Cec in person and I was thrilled to finally meet the man behind the words. Deidre knew we needed to work on a project together and thus began our brainstorming. What did you think of that first meeting, Cec, and cooking up the idea to work together?
Cec: Deidre and I had already spoken about a Christmas book and I had some idea about what it should contain, but nothing had come together. One day Deidre told me that Marley was coming to visit her and she wanted us to work together on a Christmas project. Marley and I talked before we ate and again during the meal. Everything felt right to me. I knew my strengths and Marley knew hers (and Deidre knew both of us). Everything clicked. Marley, a far better networker than I am, immediately sent out the word for submissions. Within days she had almost four times more than we could use. (She read every one of them!)
Marley: I was truly impressed with the submissions we received and it was hard narrowing it down to the ones we chose for the book. We’re fortunate to have such a go-getter agent in Deidre Knight. Cec, can you share how the whole idea ofChristmas Miracles came about and what you thought of the project originally?
Cec: For me, it actually started while I was on the rapid-rail train from the Atlanta airport when I listened to teens talk about Christmas and it was mostly about gifts. I had the idea then, but nothing really came together. Months later when Deidre I and had a meeting, she brought up the idea of a compilation and mentioned my working with Marley. I've been Deidre Knight's client since 1997 and I've learned to listen carefully when she comes up with an idea. I said yes before she gave me all the information.
Marley: That’s the truth about Deidre! Getting back to those submissions, I want to say we got more than two hundred submissions for Christmas Miracles. So many wonderful stories to read through and select for the book. It was a challenge to pick and choose which ones were right for the book, but I loved every minute of it. After I chose the entries that would go into the book, Cec toiled long hours editing the works for a unified voice. What was the biggest challenge you found in the editing process, Cec?
Cec: I've been a ghostwriter and collaborator for twenty-plus years and this was a switch to give the book a unified voice—which was mine. It would have been easier to stay with each writer's voice, but the book—like many compilations—would have been uneven in tone and quality. When I discussed this via email with our delightful editor, Rose Hilliard, she was (to my surprise) familiar with my work. She told me she liked the warm tone of my writing and that I don't waste words. "That's the voice we want," she said. It still wasn't easy, but it was an exciting challenge. After Marley and I agreed on the stories and gave them that unified voice, our editor pulled six contributions. Although different, Rose felt they were too similar to other stories.
Marley: Can you give our readers a preview of the book? A favorite story perhaps…or one that moved you to tears? (I have to say the little boy who wished for nothing but to be able to read a book all the way through because of his stutter had me bawling when I read the submission.)
Cec: That's not fair! I liked them all. The one that touched me most, however, is the last story in the book, "Sean's Question." We had almost finished the book and I was teaching at a conference in Florida. I felt we needed one strong story at the end. Despite all the good ones, I didn't feel fully satisfied to conclude the book. On the last day of the conference, I met a conferee named Sara Zinn for a consultation. As we talked, I mentioned Christmas Miracles and that I still needed one more story. "I have a Christmas story," she said and told me about Sean. As I listened, tears filled my eyes—but, being the macho type I am, I was sure it was an allergy. Sara wrote the story, and it became the one I sought.
Marley: Oh yes…that one is an emotional one all right. It was meant to be in the book because of how you met at the conference. Now, you and I have both had challenges in our lives that others might have found too much to take, but we are both very strong in our faith and our relationship with God. How do you thinkChristmas Miracles is going to help others feel closer to God and experience His miracles in their own lives?
Cec: Awareness and appreciation are the two things I want readers to grasp. Awareness means for them to realize that they're never totally alone in life. Those unexpected, out-of-the-ordinary events remind us of that. Appreciation means to be thankful for what we already have. Too often, and especially at Christmas, we focus on what we'd like or what is supposed to make us happy. Christmas Miracles gently reminds readers of both.
Marley: In this day and age when our country is fighting two wars, unemployment is high, and a lot of people have a lack of hope and faith for their future, what do you want readers of the book to take away from Christmas Miracles and how can the stories in our book help provide comfort to those struggling?
Cec: I want readers to see that miracles do happen—sometimes simple, unexpected blessings or those that involve the supernatural (as in one of Marley's stories). I call myself a serious Christian. For me, the world's greatest miracle began with the birth of Jesus. Regardless of a person's religion, this book encourages readers to think about life during the Christmas season and see that life as more than gifts and celebrations. It's also a reminder that God loves us and hears our needy cries.
Marley: Beautifully put, Cec, and I couldn’t agree with you more. Can we share what’s next after Christmas Miracles? J
Cec: Why it's the Cec and Marley show, of course. Because of our go-getter agent and our enthusiastic editor, we've already received thumbs up for The Christmas Spirit. This will be stories of people who express the true spirit of Christmas by acts of love and kindness, for release in the fall of 2011.
Marley: And I can’t wait to start working on that project! Thank you so much for your time, Cec, and answering my questions. It was a privilege and honor to work with you and I look forward to our future projects together. You’ve helped me along during a trying time and I appreciate your friendship and support.
Cec: I liked this project because Marley had to send out the word, collect submissions, read them, and discard the weaker ones. I get to see only the better-written stories. (Don't tell her that I have the better job.) Although I mentioned only one story, all of those in the book touched me because of the poignancy of their situations and the miraculous answers. I won't say the stories increased my faith, but they increased my appreciation for the delightful mix of human need and divine intervention.
Marley: Thanks again, Cec! God Bless! And to our readers, please be sure to pick up a copy of CHRISTMAS MIRACLES, out October 13, 2009 from St. Martin’s Press. It’s a great stocking stuffer or gift basket filler. We hope you, too, will discover your own Christmas Miracles in your life.

Giveaway

Leave a comment for a chance to win the Christmas Miracles gift basket by Monday November 16 midday Aussie time.
Wouldn’t you love to take home this amazing basket filled with Christmas goodies galore? This amazing gift basket contains everything you’ll need to make your Christmas holiday a success. Inside you’ll find a stocking stuffed with hard candies, kitchen towels and oven mitts, seasonal potpourri, holiday-colored candles, stuffed animals that talk, snowman candle, nutcrackers, Christmas ornaments, gift bags, gift tags, gift bows, ornament hangers, Christmas cookie cutters, a Merry Christmas doorstopper, a picture frame, Christmas cards, Santa ear muffs, and not just one, but two copies of Cecil Murphey and Marley Gibson’sChristmas Miracles – one to keep and one to give away to someone special.

Jennifer Kennedy Dean and the Set Apart Blog Tour and giveaway

New Hope Publishers

ISBN: 10-1596692634

ISBN: 13-978-1596692633

Release Date: 9/1/09

Retail: $14.99

About the Book:

(Marion, Kentucky) - In a world of self-love and materialism it's reassuring to know that God's Word has a better plan for living. Renowned author and speaker, Jennifer Kennedy Dean, provides insight to the life of Christ, specifically the Sermon on the Mount, in her new book, Set Apart: A 6 Week Study of the Beatitudes.

Through careful study of the Hebrew traditions of biblical times, Dean leads participants into a deeper awareness of this early ministry sermon series by Christ.

Jennifer guides readers to a heightened understanding of each beatitude, correlating the Ten Commandments with the Sermon on the Mount to tie these Old and New Testament principles together. Dean shares how living the Set Apart Life is an exciting and life-changing spiritual journey. Participants surrendered to Christ will see a total transformation: outward actions of holiness as well as inward attitudes of joy. Believers following along in this workbook will experience the life God intends. This blessedness comes from seeking and knowing God. Anything outside the realm of Jesus Christ results in emptiness--the ultimate opposite of blessing.

Each chapter includes interactive questions for readers to answer, emphasizing God's desire to reproduce the character and attitudes of Jesus in each Christian's life. Along with the Bible study book, there is a Leader Kit that includes six DVD sessions and a CD with bonus material for small-group leaders. Jennifer's website, http://www.blogger.com/www.prayinglife.org, provides opportunities for previewing the Set Apart materials and extra resources for pastors and leaders.

Jennifer Kennedy Dean provides an informative video commentary to introduce Set Apart content.

http://www.tangle.com/view_video.php?viewkey=7a2a32c15229df5a5359

You'll be encouraged by the music video produced especially for Set Apart.

http://www.tangle.com/view_video.php?viewkey=d155726c8c57d0b6f7a8

Adapted from Set Apart by Jennifer Kennedy Dean

"I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong" (2 Cor 12:9-10).

My weakness is my greatest asset in the Kingdom. My weakness is where God meets me. My weakness is where Christ's power is most clearly displayed in me. Only when I am confronted with my own helplessness can I experience the power of Christ in me.

"Your helplessness is your best prayer. It calls from your heart to the heart of God with greater effect than all your uttered pleas. He hears it from the very moment that you are seized with helplessness, and He becomes actively engaged at once in hearing and answering the prayer of your helplessness." (O. Hallesby, Prayer)

I recently had the tiniest glimpse of how powerfully helplessness speaks. A few years ago, I lost my husband to brain cancer. During the final months of his illness, he became utterly helpless. The man I had leaned on for 26 years, whose strength I counted on, was now dependent upon me for his every need. During those weeks, my ear was tuned to his every sigh, his every restless movement, every change in his breathing pattern. If I had to be out of his room for even a few minutes, I had a monitor with me so I could hear him if he needed me. When he was strong, I was not so attentive. His needs did not fill my waking moments, when he could meet them himself. His helplessness spoke louder than any word he might have spoken. Because of his helplessness--because I knew he could do nothing on his own--I was on watch day and night.

My experience is but a pale shadow of the reality of the Kingdom, but still it helps me understand how my weakness is the opening for His strength. The fact of my helplessness is the only prayer I need. It speaks louder than eloquence.

Let your helplessness and your weakness be the offering you bring to Him. He is not waiting for you to be strong. He is waiting for you to recognize that you are weak.

Jennifer Kennedy Dean is Executive director of The Praying Life Foundation and a respected author and speaker. She is the author of numerous books, studies, and magazine articles specializing in prayer and spiritual formation. Her book Heart’s Cry has been named National Day of Prayer’s signature book. You’ll find articles and daily quotes from Jennifer at the National Day of Prayer website. Her book, Live a Praying Life, has been called a flagship work on prayer.

Jennifer was widowed in 2005 after 26 years of marriage to Wayne Dean, her partner both in life and ministry. They are the parents of three grown sons. Jennifer makes her home in Marion, KY.

An Interview with Jennifer Kennedy Dean

You are known for your extensive research and your fresh insights. Do you have a method for gleaning new concepts?

Of course, the truths are not new, but I think I sometimes am able to frame old truths in new ways. I always find that when I put the words of Jesus into their original Hebraic setting and experience the scene through the viewpoint of His real-time audience, some new little fragment of truth finds its way into my thinking. I like to let the Scripture breathe. To let it sit in my heart until its full aroma has time to emerge. There's the hard-core research, and then there's the marinating. Turn your imagination loose and unfurl your curiosity, and listen to the living Word.

You have a series of Bible studies in the format of Set Apart, designed to be interactive. This series of studies has video series and leader's kits available. What is the advantage to this kind of format?

I try to produce a new Bible study with video series every year. I like the interactive format because I like to pull the reader into the Scripture to experience the Word. I like to challenge the reader to interact with the thoughts and ideas and to take the time to absorb them and apply them, rather than just to read. The other thing I like about this format is that it can be done by an individual, or as a group. In the video series, I like to be able to teach the main points of the material and set the learners' up for a productive week of personal study. I love feeling like I get to be part of your Bible study group! The kits have lots of other resources for leading a small group in the study.

Several of your studies have theme songs that go with them, as Set Apart does. How do these songs come about?

I have developed a song-writing relationship with a talented musician named Roxanne Lingle. I write poems, we turn them into lyrics, Roxanne composes and arranges the music, and Roxanne records the songs. For Set Apart, we have the theme song in the form of a music video, which is a new addition. In the leader's kit you have the audio track, accompaniment track, lead sheet, and the music video. The theme song becomes an important and worshipful part of the study experience.

GRAND PRIZE DRAWING

Please leave a comment to be entered in a drawing to win the following items from Jennifer. If you are a leader (small groups, book club, Bible Study, Women's Ministry), please note that you are--you will automatically be entered in the contest. If you are a member of one of these groups at your church or community, mention that you are a group member.

please leave a comment by Monday midday aussie time on the 16th.

You will be entered to win:

A Set Apart Leader's Kit (video and leader resources and a student book) retail $79.99

A copy of Fueled by Faith (retail $19.99)

Jennifer will have a live web event just for your group