N. Carolina Author Jennifer Hudson Taylor Interview and Book Giveaway

14 Dec 2011 20 Comments

by Heather H. in Uncategorized

Now I’m a bit biased when I say Carolina girls are the best in the world (there’s even a song about it, so it must be true.) Today’s guest is Jennifer Hudson Taylor, who lives in the Charlotte area. Jennifer is a southern girl but the setting of her current Highland series transports readers across the ocean and back in time to 15th century Scotland. She’ll be sticking closer home with next year’s novella “Quakers of New Garden” which features four stories that follow  a Quaker family living in Greensboro in the 1800s. (My mom-who rarely reads historicals-is already excited to read this one, just from reading the summary!)

Jennifer has published two  books, and signed contracts for two novellas and four more upcoming novels through 2014. Her work has appeared in national publications, such as Guideposts, Heritage Quest Magazine, Romantic Times Book Reviews, and The Military Trader.

Jennifer is giving away a copy of her novel “Highland Sanctuary” to one winner. Just leave a comment to enter-that simple. Or if you’d like to purchase an autographed copy of any of her books for $10, check out her blog.

Don’t forget, you can enter each giveaway of the 12 Days of Christmas. Click here to see what (and who) you’ve missed.

INTERVIEW WITH JENNIFER HUDSON TAYLOR

OA: Jennifer, why did you choose to write a historical series, particularly one set in Scotland?

JHT: There aren’t many Christian fiction books written in 15th century Scotland. At the time in 1998, the market seemed saturated with prairie romances, and I thought it would be nice to write something in a time and place I had enjoyed in the secular market. When I switched to reading Christian fiction, I missed the variety of selections that were available in the secular market, but I craved books with Christian values that didn’t have all the bad language and sex in them.  I had always loved Scottish historicals and so that was the first thing that came to mind, even though it wasn’t published until 2010.

OA: What do you think readers can take away from a book whose time and place are so far removed from our own?

JHT: I think historical lessons can be discovered through an interesting story by way of skipping a boring history lesson, although history lessons are rarely boring to ME! I’m learning from my family that I’m in the minority on that. People never change regardless of gender, race, or period of history in which they live. People still want to be loved, valued, happy, and often are searching for a way to make their life count, for meaning and purpose. For this reason, Christian fiction will always have take away value as we writers are led by the Holy Spirit to inspire modern readers in their own faith walk, plant seeds in developing minds to dispel doubt, remind people of God’s hope when they are depressed or grieving, and show them the love of Christ through fiction parables.

OA: What led you to write your first novel?

JHT: I’ve always loved reading historical romance novels. I finished reading a book that inspired me when I was 12, and I decided to write a book. And so I did.

OA: Why do you choose to write inspirational versus secular books?

JHT:  I started out writing secular books even though I’ve been a Christian since I was 9. For a long time, I didn’t know that Christian fiction was available and when I first heard about it, my reaction was, “It’s probably so chaste that it isn’t realistic.” God called me to write Christian fiction, I know this now when I look back at all the signs I ignored, but I ran from it like Jonah. I didn’t think the market was big enough or that I could make a living from it. I was even so stubborn that I stopped writing for 3 years.

Deep down there was a fear that I wasn’t qualified to write Christian fiction—that I didn’t know enough about the Bible or that I wasn’t a good enough Christian. During those 3 years, God took care of that. He allowed me to be humbled to a breaking point. We went through so many things that the Bible became my desperate search for answers. No more seeking sermons or ministry leaders for their thoughts, I wanted to read and find the answers for myself. The Word of God came alive and my relationship with Christ grew in such a way I never imagined possible.

After this experience I vowed I would never write another thing unpleasing to God. In my mind this meant I’d never write romance again. Of course, God had other plans. When I found Embrace the Dawn by Kathleen Morgan in the Religion section of Borders, I freaked. Since when did Christian fiction contain Scottish medieval romances? I bought it on the spot. Read through it and I was hooked from then on. It inspired me to convert my Scottish historical to Christian fiction and it became my debut novel, Highland Blessings.

OA: Which comes first when you write a book, the plot or the spiritual journey?

JHT: It depends, but most of the time it’s the plot and then the rest comes together. Since I started out converting my secular novels to Christian fiction, I’ve just sort of gravitated to that chronological order. However, some of my more recent books have had the spiritual journey integrated in the plot as it was developed.

OA: How do you choose which Bible verses to include in a book?

JHT: It depends. Sometimes a verse will rise up from my spirit based on what my characters are facing. Other times, I have to do searches for key phrases on Bible Gateway.

OA: How do you balance showing a character’s spiritual journey without “preaching” to the reader?

JHT: That’s hard because what one person considers too preachy another may not. I try to take my mind back to my younger Jonah days and look at it from the perspective of those eyes. If it seems like something that would have caused me to toss the book or keep reading and digging, I go by that. One thing that I try to do is limit church sermons and if I have a church scene, keep the pastor’s comments limited to a line or two. Also, I try not to have other characters preach to each other with long paragraphs of dialogue. If they give advice, I try to limit it to 2-3 lines, no more than one paragraph and then get the action going again.

OA: How do you do research when preparing to write a historical novel?

JHT: These days I begin with the Internet. Google Search is a powerful tool. I read a few articles and blogs, print out and highlight things I’m interested in and want to research further. Once I have the basic info, I go back to my highlights and questions and begin researching specific questions. If I need more details than what is provided on the Internet, I look up specific books. If they’re available, I order them from Amazon or Google Books. While I like reading novels on my Kindle and Nook, I still prefer a printed book for research. This may change since my shelves are getting full and I can store up to 3,500 books on my Kindle.

OA: Who are some of the authors who’ve inspired you?

JHT: Kathleen Morgan, as well as some of the secular authors like Julie Garwood, Teresa Medeiros, and Judith McNaught with some of their earlier books. I don’t read them now, for obvious reasons, but they did inspire me to want to write. God inspired me to want to write for Him. God showed me through Kathleen Morgan’s work that there is a place in the Christian fiction market for a writer like me. Now, I’m moving on to chart new territory with Quaker historicals based on some of my family history, even our Scottish Quakers.

OA: What is your favorite and least favorite parts of writing a novel?

JHT:  The doubt. I love all stages: the research, the writing, the editing, cover design, the promoting—but at every stage, doubt will always try to creep in and attack. I worry the current book isn’t as good as the last one—that it’s too different and readers won’t like it. I worry that I’m too tired with my day job and all my responsibilities and I’m not giving the same quality as before. I worry that no one knows about my books, and therefore, won’t buy them and no amount of marketing will make a difference. I worry stuff will happen and I won’t meet a deadline. On and on it goes, but I have to cast those thoughts aside and keep pressing forward.

OA: Do you have advice for writers aspiring to be published?

JHT: If this is something you really want/need to do, don’t give up. God’s timing isn’t your timing. Learn as much as you can. The more realistic your expectations, the better are your chances of not being disappointed and your ability to make valuable decisions when you are published.

OA: This may be like asking you to choose a favorite child but do you have a favorite character or book that you’ve written?

JHT: Highland Sanctuary has a special place in my heart. I based the heroine, Serena, and her seizures on my daughter, Celina, and her seizures.

OA: Do you have any special traditions that you and your family do each year at Christmas?

My daughter and I try to read at least one Christmas novel or novella together. We used to watch a Christmas movie each night in December, but my deadlines have kept me from doing that this year. I still have to work my full-time job, so writing is reduced to evenings and weekends. I used to send out Christmas cards through the mail, and I normally put out an historic Christmas Village, but this is the first year I’ve not done so in 18 years.

This has been a hard year. A few months ago we lost my father-in-law and my mom has been fighting an aggressive cancer and may need further surgery. The happiness that is usually part of the season for us isn’t as prominent as before. I think grief does that, but I know that things will get better.

OA: In the spirit of the Season of giving, can you tell us about a charity that you support and why it’s special to you?

JHT: The Ronald McDonald House Charities was a huge support to our family when our daughter was in Brenners Children’s Hospital. They provide a place for families and parents to stay while their child is being treated for long-term care in the hospital. This is why every city with a hospital needs a Ronald McDonald House. Some of these long-term hospital visits are unexpected and parents can’t afford the hotel expenses for weeks and months at a time. Emotionally, they are already dealing with enough. I was able to stay in the hospital with our daughter, but the Ronald McDonald House gave my husband a place to stay nearby. All he had to pay was a donation and it was no set amount. It was/is such a blessing! http://rmhc.org

OA: What do you have in the works for 2012?

JHT: Novellas

Highland Crossings Novella, Feb 2012 featuring Heart’s Inheritance (1815) by Jennifer Hudson Taylor.

The four stories in  Highland Crossings is centered around the lives of the McKay and McPherson cousins and their descendants. A priceless brooch is given to an ancestress for a good deed she once performed for the imprisoned Mary Queen of Scots and serves as the motivation that tears the family apart. It plays a role in bringing the sisters together after twenty years of separation, gives a daughter a start on her dreams, and a granddaughter a new plan for the future. Each finds her way in the New World, the new nation, and a new century, finding God’s purpose for their lives and the loves of their hearts.

Quakers of New Garden Novella, Apr 2012 featuring “New Garden’s Hope” (1808) by Jennifer Hudson Taylor

Quakers of New Garden is a collection of four stories centering around the generations of the Wall family starting in 1808 in Greensborough, NC with their assistance in birthing a new city and tracing their migration to the non-slave state of Indiana. There, they face new struggles in their involvement with the underground railroad leading up to the Civil War, and cling to the plain ways of tradition and faith for 200 years until present day when a new generation is tempted to abandon plainness and step out in faith to a new life and a new love.

OA: You’re also a speaker as well. What kinds of topics do you speak on? How can someone have you come speak to their group?

JHT: Yes, I have topics of Faith & Inspiration, as well as Writing & Publishing. People who want to have me come speak can either contact me through the online form on my Speaker page or send me an email at jt4novels@yahoo.com. Here’s a link to my Speaker page for a list of topics, quote recommendations and a speaking video: http://jenniferswriting.blogspot.com/p/jennifers-speaking-topics.html

Faith & Inspirational Topics

Writing By Faith
Climbing A Dream
Finding Your Island with God
Parenting & Discipling Special Needs Children
The Balancing Act of Faith, Family & Work
Choosing the Gift of Life

Writing & Publishing Topic
Writing 101
Publishing 101
Marketing 101
Building an Online Platform with Impact
Digging Deep into POV
Creating the Emotional Heartbeat of a Story
The Agent Search: It’s All About Faith
The Art of Researching Today & Yesterday

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HOW TO ENTER THE BOOK GIVEAWAY

But First the Rules. Please read over them, they’ll likely answer any questions you have about the giveaway-if not, ask away.

This giveaway is open to US Residents, with the book mailed to the winner by the author. (Sorry international friends, postage is expensive!)

Here’s how you can enter to win a free copy of “Highland Sanctuary.”

  1. Simply leave a comment under this post, with your name and email address (so I can contact you if you win! Email addresses are used for this contest only. I don’t collect or sell email addresses.)

BONUS ENTRIES (Leave a Separate Comment for each action you complete stating what you did along with your name and email.)

The giveaway closes on Friday, Dec. 23 at 11:59pm. Winners will be announced on Saturday, Dec. 24 at 2p.m. Please check back every day through Dec. 23 for a different giveaway and interviews with authors. You can enter all of the giveaways but you can only win once. :-)

*This post may contain affiliate links.

Lenora Worth Interview and Book Giveaway

14 Dec 2011 36 Comments

by Heather H. in 12 Days of Christmas, Book Shelf

It’s day three of the 12 Days of Christmas. And if you’re like me you’ve probably (okay definitely) indulged in some homemade goodies this Christmas season. One perk (and temptation) of working in a library is being spoiled during Christmas with sweets and goodies from patrons.

Today I’ve got a waist-line friendly treat-a short but sweet interview from author Lenora Worth. If you frequent the book aisle of your local big box store you’ve probably seen Lenora’s books. She has published more than 50 titles for Love Inspired and Harlequin Superomance, among others. She’s written books for just about every genre from historical romances to romantic suspense, and many faith inspired novels, all with the common thread of loveable characters and strong stories that will make you both eager and sad to make it to last page of the book.

Now through Dec. 23, you can enter to win her new release “Southern Reunion“-just comment on this post. (Details are at the end of the post.) And don’t forget, you still have time to enter each giveaway of the 12 Days of Christmas.

Interview with Lenora Worth

OA: How long have you been writing?

LW: I always wanted to be a writer since grammar school. I made up stories and sold them on the playground!

OA: In Inspirational novels, the spiritual element is an important part of the plot. Which comes first for you, the character’s spiritual journey or the plot?

LW: I usually come up with a plot, knowing there will be a spiritual element in the story. I choose my (Bible) verses based on the characters and the theme of the book–forgiveness, suspense, redemption, etc.

OA: How do you craft an inspirational story that doesn’t  “preach” to the reader?

LW: I try to show my characters just “being” Christians. Or if they are struggling, I show that struggle. It’s more organic and natural to write it that way.

OA: When I asked Gail Gaymer Martin if she has a favorite character, she told me it was like asking her to pick a favorite child. Do you have a character or novel that’s close to your heart?

LW:  Yes, that’s a tough one. I loved Eli Trudeau in “Heart of the Night”. He really needed his own story. He was a very troubled man.

OA: I’m sure writing a novel is like most things-you have things you love and dislike about the process. What are your favorite and least favorite things about writing?

LW: Favorite–getting the initial idea and creating a story around it. Least favorite–never having enough time to make it better.

OA: Many readers are also writers, too. On your website you have some valuable advice for writing an inspirational romance. What do you recommend to writers who are working to finish a novel?

LW: Read, read, read. Learn all about revisions. The first draft is not a book yet. Keep polishing and learning.

OA: I hope this 12 Days of Christmas blog will become a tradition for me. What Christmas traditions does your family enjoy?

LW: We like to decorate the tree together. On Christmas Eve we drive around after the church service to see all the lights.

OA: What can readers expect to see from you in 2012?

LW: Lots of stuff. I’m working on another Superromance right now and I have a Love Inspired and a Love Inspired Suspense contracted. I’ll be very busy next year, thankfully!!!

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Now for the contest. But First the Rules. Please read over them, they’ll likely answer any questions you have about the giveaway-if not, ask away.

This giveaway is open to US Residents, with the book mailed to the winner by the author. (Sorry international friends, postage is expensive!)

Here’s how you can enter to win a free copy of “Southern Reunion.”

  1. Simply leave a comment under this post, with your name and email address (so I can contact you if you win! Email addresses are used for this contest only. I don’t collect or sale email addresses.)

BONUS ENTRIES (Leave a Separate Comment for each action you complete stating what you did along with your name and email.)

  1. Visit Lenora’s website
  2. Like Lenora on Facebook
  3. Follow Lenora on Twitter
  4. Visit any (or all) of the charities that Lenora supports.

  5. Visit Lenora’s publisher Love Inspired
  6. Watch one of Lenora’s book trailers.
  7. Subscribe to my blog.
  8. “Like’” my blog on Facebook.

The giveaway closes on Friday, Dec. 23 at 11:59pm. Winners will be announced on Saturday, Dec. 24 at 2p.m. Please check back every day through Dec. 23 for a different giveaway and interviews with authors. You can enter all of the giveaways but you can only win once. :-)

*This post may contain affiliate links.

Patience, Perserverance, and Prayer: An Interview and Giveaway featuring author Gail Gaymer Martin

13 Dec 2011 27 Comments

by Heather H. in 12 Days of Christmas, Book Shelf

Each time I start writing a post for the 12 Days of Christmas, the iconic song keeps playing in my head (What I can remember of it anyway.) I think that the passing of time has lost the translation of these strange “gifts.” I’m probably not your true love and the turtle doves I caught flew away (who wants to clean up after them anyway?!) So on the second day of the 12 Days of Christmas giveaways your gift is a review, plus an interview, writing tips and chance to win a Christmas title from the multi-talented Gail Gaymer Martin. To enter the giveaway, simlpy leave a comment with your name and email address by Dec. 23. There’s also a chance for bonus entries.
(Don’t forget to comment on the Day One post to win a book from Loree Lough.)

Review of “CHRISTMAS GIFTS” by Gail Gaymer Martin

I have a rule…no Christmas songs, decorations or fa-la-la-la-la fun until December. Over the last few years I’ve become a little fanatical about it as stores begin decorating in October. But when it comes to books from my favorite authors I’m more impatient than a child on Christmas morning. So when I got Gail Gaymer Martin‘s new Love Inspired release “Christmas Gifts” in the mail I started reading it immediately (even though Halloween hadn’t arrived.)
You’ll want to read this book anytime of the year-curled up by the fire in December or on the beach in July.

From the back cover
When seven-year-old twins act up in temporary teacher Amy Carroll’s class, she meets their very apologetic widowed father, Mike Russet. The handsome man has his hands full—but can two mini matchmakers and holiday cheer open his heart to Christmas romance?

Frazzled father Mike Russet is the man and the mom of the house. The widower is raising precocious seven-year-old twins Holly and Ivy.
Teacher Amy Carroll’s life is in upheaval. Budget cuts force her to leave her job in Chicago for a job in a small town. Even as she makes her new life she must deal with her baggage from the past.
Amy knows first hand what it’s liked to be raised by a single father. She sees a chance to help Mike give some tough love to the twins.
Mike sees beyond Amy’s beauty and hard shell.
The twins see a chance to help their favorite teacher find a permanent place in their school and in their daddy’s heart.
While Mike’s genuine faith challenges Amy to put the past to rest, Amy awakens feelings that the father thought he had buried with his wife.

The novel wraps up realism, romance, faith, and the magic of the season in one small package (It’s 110 pages and I read it in one sitting.) And “Christmas Gifts” keeps on giving with a bonus novel “Her Christmas Cowboy” by Brenda Minton.

I’m putting “Christmas Gifts” on my keeper shelf and I have a feeling I’ll be pulling it out this summer for a little Christmas in July!

Interview with Gail Gaymer Martin

OA: Every Christmas season I pull out one of your Christmas books to read (“The Christmas Kite”,  “With Christmas In His Heart”, “Christmas Gifts”, “Upon a Midnight Clear.”) I guess it’s become a tradition for me. Have any of your family’s Christmas traditions found there way into your Christmas novels? What fun or special traditions does your family celebrate?

GM: I suppose an occasional tradition shows up in a Christmas book but they are things that are traditional to most people–playing Christmas music while decorating the house and tree, hanging up Christmas stockings to be opened on Christmas Day, and putting a creche beneath the tree that has been in my husband’s family for years.

One particular tradition that my family has is on Christmas Day we break up into groups of 11 and sing the Twelve Days of Christmas. We all begin on Day 1 and then each group or individual must remember to sing the day they or she has been assigned. It provides a lot of laughs when people forget what came on that day or when some of the singers can’t carry a tune. The song is often modulated into a variety of keys. : )

OA: I’m amazed at the variety of books you published. How many of your books have been published?

I’ve been published by Steeple Hill/Love Inspired and Barbour Publishing as well as their Heartsong Presents line. My fiction totals 50 novels, I believe. I am also the author of Writing the Christian Romance from Writers Digest, and I have 27 books involving church resource materials of programs, skits and plays for adult and children in church and Sunday school.

OA: As an aspiring writer I’ve been following your writing blog for years. I’ve used many of the tips for writers you’ve posted on your website. What advice do you have advice for writers aspiring to be published?

Learn the craft. God-given talent is important but that doesn’t sell a book. Writing needs training and study, attending workshops and conferences, networking with writers, reading magazines and books on writing, and then practicing. Often the first novel doesn’t sell. The third or fourth or fifth or twentieth might. Patience, perseverance, practice, polish, and prayer for a story that grabs an editors heart and hangs on.

OA: Why do you choose to write inspirational romance instead of secular books? 

GM: I am a lifelong Christian, born into a family of believers who attended church, and though they made mistakes and sinned, as we all do, they held on to the hope of Christ as their redeemer and savior. When I was first writing—which was not fiction but articles for magazines—I recalled my childhood dream which was to write novels. During my first or second conference, Gayle Roper told me about a bulletin board of writers on AOL (that was in 1996) and on that bulletin board I ran across a message that said anyone who wanted to write Christian romance could join a new group that was being established. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to write but that sounded fine with me. Little did I know the group included Francine Rivers, Liz Curtis Higgs, Karen Ball, Lisa Tawn Bergren , Linda Windsor, Annie Jones, and many more. They truly mentored me and I sold my first novel in 1998.

OA: Which comes first as you write-the story or the spiritual journey.

As I develop a novel, usually I have a general idea of story along with types of characters and their problems which might include a faith issue. They come together in small pieces

OA: How do you balance showing a character’s spiritual journey without “preaching” to the reader?

Preaching is the worst thing anyone can do in Christian fiction. It’s a turn off for most readers, even Christians. My character’s journeys stem from their inner conflicts and sometimes that can involved faith issues: why does God let this happen, does God hear my prayers, will God listen to me a sinner, and so on. Sometimes the problem is weak faith or lack of faith. I try to write my novels “real.” I present characters just as I live my life with the worries and fears along with the faith that is from my heart and soul. When faith discussions or a faith lessons stem from realistic issues or situations, they are not preachy. Preachy is when the story almost stops to drive home a point that is meant to sway the reader’s thinking. It’s long prayers and Bible verses filling the story as well as constant church scenes that can turn off readers.

OA: Do you have a favorite character or book that you’ve written?

That’s like asking a mother which of her children she loves the most. I love each book as I write it. Some linger in my heart longer than some. Upon A Midnight Clear (my first book published by Love Inspired) is one. The Christmas Kite is another – my first single title from Steeple Hill. A Love for Safekeeping (an award winning romantic suspense) published by LI in 2002 was my first romantic suspense and is now available on Kindle.

OA: What is your favorite and least favorite parts of writing a novel?

I love hearing from readers who have been touched and changed by one of my novels. My least favorite part is two things: the way being an author takes over my life and the other, doing what my editor calls “tweaking” a novel that’s contracted and complete. This often means almost rewriting the book.

OA: Performing in choirs keeps you busy. Tell us about your music.

My husband writes handbell music and he’s published. But I am very active in music. I’ve always been a singer since I was a child singing in elementary and high school choirs, then auditioned groups in college and a well-known madrigal group, and I sing with a well-known Christian chorale in the Detroit area. In church, I sing solos, participate in the choir, and a member of the praise team. I perform at church in handbells land handchimes. Years ago I played the piano for Sunday school. Don’t ask me now. I can barely remember how to play. :-)

Thanks, Heather, for inviting me to your blog. Readers can find me at www.gailmartin.com or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/people/Gail-Gaymer-Martin/1429640580 Writers can enjoy my blog Writing Fiction Right at www.writingright-Martin.blogspot.com

A Family of Their Own is available in paperback from your local bookstore, or online. It’s also available as an ebook.

I was provided an Advance Reader Copy of A FAMILY OF THEIR OWN at no cost for review purposes. The opinions are my own and I was not a required to provide a positive review.

BOOK GIVEAWAY

Gail is giveaway a copy of one of Christmas novels to one winner. The winner gets to choice either “Christmas Gifts”, “With Christmas in His Heart” or “Upon a Midnight Clear.” To enter:

  1. Simply leave a comment under this post, with your name and email address (so I can contact you if you win! Email addresses are used for this contest only. I don’t collect or sale email addresses.)

BONUS ENTRIES (Leave a Separate Comment for each action you complete stating what you did along with your name and email.)

  1. Friend Gail on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/people/Gail-Gaymer-Martin/1429640580
  2. Join Readers of Gail Gaymer Martin’s Books https://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=11054311247
  3. Follow Gail Twitter: http://twitter.com/GailGMartin
  4. Visit Gail’s LinkedIn page: http://www.linkedin.com/profile/edit?trk=hb_tab_pro_top
  5. Visit Gail’s Personal Blog: www.gailmartin.blogspot.com
  6. Visit Gail’s WritingFictionRight (for writers): www.writingright-Martin.blogspot.com
  7. Sign up for Gail’s monthly newsletter with photos, new, appearance, info on free books, recipe, and devotional. Subscribe at: www.gailmartin.com below the welcome message.
  8. Visit Gail’s publisher’s website.
    www.harlequin.com
    http://www.barbourbooks.com/catalog/CategoryInfo.aspx?cid=152&Tab=Home
  9. Visit Compassion International website: http://www.compassion.com/
  10. Find Compassion on  Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/Compassion-International/233432993348291?sk=wall

(Don’t forget to comment on the Day One post to win a book from Loree Lough.)

The post may contain affiliate links.

Review of “The Betrayal” by Jerry B. Jenkins

11 Dec 2011 2 Comments

by Heather H. in Book Shelf Tags: , , , , , , ,

It feels like the end of the world for Chicago cop Boone Drake. The last year of Boone’s life has been hell. In “The Brotherhood” (book one of the Precinct 11 series by Jerry B. Jenkins) Boone is a rising star in Precinct 11. He has a satisfying home life, having just bought a house with his beautiful wife and young son. But an unspeakable accident costs Boone his family and house and nearly his sanity and his career.  The loss brings the cop to his knees, to the bottom of a bottle and eventually to the God whom he’d only given cursory lip service in the past.

In the opening pages of “The Betrayal” (book two) Boone is clawing his way out of the fog of grief. His career is on the rise after he and his partner Jack lead a bust to topple a gang syndicate. He has a burgeoning (if reluctant) relationship with God. And he’s found new love with his girlfriend Haley, a single mother and civilian employee for Precinct 11.

But life soon kicks the feet out from under Boone.

*****************SPOILERS*****************

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Boone is gunned down on the job, the bullet nearly ending his life and his career. Before Boone is even out of the hospital bed he’s dealt another devastating blow-someone he trusts is responsible for his shooting.

Haley is arrested, accused of betraying Boone and their coworkers. Boone’s trust in Haley doesn’t waiver. With the help of a street wise lawyer, Boone embarks on the most important case of his life.

A lot of books claim to be page turners. “The Betrayal” is absolutely a can’t put down read. I opened “The Betrayal” one morning when I had a few minutes free before I headed to work and wound up being late because I kept saying “one more page,” wanting to find out what happened next, yet not wanting to miss a word by speed reading through.

Jenkins is best known for co-authoring the apocalyptic Left Behind series. But the Precinct 11 trilogy solidifies his places as a suspense author. I  admire Jenkins’ ability to blur the line between genres and appeal to both men and women, regardless of the reader’s faith. Jenkins inserts unassuming romance and a genuine exploration of faith into the pages of a suspense story.

Boone is a throwback and what I’ve come to expect from Jenkins. The gritty cop is a masculine, never say quit, realist.

The characters are believable. And Jenkins certainly knows his way around Chicago. His vivid descriptions will have you craving a Chicago deep dish pizza.

Even though “The Betrayal” is the second book in the Precinct 11 series, readers who haven’t read book one will quickly become absorbed into Boone’s gritty world.

“The Betrayal” will make an excellent stocking stuffer for your favorite reader and is available in paperback and ebook for around $10.

Before you go, check out my post on some of my favorite books by Jerry B. Jenkins.

Visit my blog Dec. 12-23, 2011 for a 12 Days of Christmas giveaway featuring interviews and free books from best-selling authors Irene Hannon, Loree Lough, Gail Gaymer Martin, Camy Tang and more!

Jenkins is the author of 175+ books, a husband, father, grandfather, owner of ChristianWritersGuild.com & Jenkins-Entertainment.com. Find Jerry B. Jenkins on Facebook or follow him on Twitter. For a list of  Mr. Jenkins books visit his website.

I was provided with a free Advance Review Copy of “The Betrayal.” I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESUS-An Interview and Book Giveaway with author Loree Lough

09 Dec 2011 33 Comments

by Heather H. in 12 Days of Christmas, Book Shelf

Howdy y’all. Thanks for stopping by the 12 Days of Christmas giveaway. I hope you’ll drop by every day until Dec. 23 for a chance to win a book a day and to enjoy interviews with best-selling authors.

Today we welcome best-selling author Loree Lough.She’s dropped by to tell us a little about her books, give some writing tips and share some of her family’s Christmas traditions. Oh and she’s giving away a free book to one lucky winner!

Loree is the author of 84 books. With an amazing 3 million books in circulation, Loree is one of Inspirational Fiction’s most well-know (and spunky) authors. Her titles have earned numerous 4- and 5-star reviews and dozens of industry awards. She splits her time between a humble home in Baltimore and a teeny cabin in the Alleghenies (where she loves to show off her “Identify the Critter Tracks” skills).

Before becoming a best-selling author, Loree “literally sang for her supper” (click this link for a flashback of Loree. I think she looks like Lynn Anderson) and worked as a reporter for major newspapers and magazines.

Loree doesn’t just write about faith, she lives it. Following the words of”Acts 20:35 “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” she donates a large portion of her annual income to charities including the Wounded Warriors Project, Ovarian Cancer Research Fund, Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund, the Autism Society of America, and the Wolf Sanctuary of Pennsylvania.

Loree loves to hear from readers and answers every letter, personally. (It’s true, she’s a fun friend to follow on Facebook! You’ll get lots of laughs and inspiration from her page! And maybe a growling belly after you read all the yummy recipes she posts.) To connect with Loree , visit her at Facebook, Twitter, Shoutlife, and www.loreelough.com!

Her newest releases, Love Finds You in Folly Beach, South Carolina and From Ashes to Honor are in bookstores now (AND she’s giving one winner the choice of either of these books.)

Before I tell you how you can win one of these titles, let’s have a chat with Loree.

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Interview with Loree Lough


 The premise of Loree’s First Responders series is heartwrenchingly familiar. In “From Ashes to Honor” (book 1) NYC Cop Austin Finley must live with the unthinkable-he ignored a final phone call from his brother who was inside the World Trade Center on 9/11. “Honor Redeemed” (book 2) follows two Search and Rescue workers as they sort through the mangled wreckage of an jumbo passenger jet.

OA: Loree, your upcoming release Honor Redeemed (book 2 in the  First Responders series which releases February 2012) follows the lives of characters who were personally and  deeply affected by 9/11. It’s been 10 years since the 9/11 attacks. What inspired you to write the First Responders series now?

LL: Like most Americans, I used to accept as fact that first responders would be there when I needed them. Just dial 9-1-1 and help arrives, right? While driving, I did my civic duty and pulled over when I saw flashing lights and heard sirens. I said a little prayer for whomever they were about to help, but once the emergency vehicles had passed, I pretty much forgot about them.

And then 9/11 happened. I saw cops, firefighters, EMTs, Port Authority Police walking into the mayhem with only one thought: Save lives. Many of them gave their own lives that day…and in the days, months, and years to come, and I felt overwhelming guilt, caused by my “took them for granted” mindset. Notice…that’s past tense….

The First Responders series will, I hope, make everyone who reads the novels more aware of the brave men and women who put our safety ahead of their own. I also hope that, as readers go about their normal routines, they’ll stop and say thank you when they see a policeman, firefighter, or soldier.

OA: I recently watched the video book trailer for Honor Redeemed on Youtube. It’s so fun to watch books come to life visually, if only for a couple of minutes. What do you think videos being used to promote books?

LL: The number of industry pros who claim video book trailers increase sales are probably equal to the number who insist trailers are a waste of ,money. But in an industry where an author’s opportunities (to sell) are decreasing as the number of competitors increases, I say name recognition is critical. If a reader views–and likes–a trailer, they’re more likely to remember my name while browsing the bookstore shelves. That’s why I’ve put my hard-earned marketing dollars toward book trailers…and why I’ll keep right on doing it!

OA: You’re donating a portion of the proceeds from “Honor Redeemed” to three charities that serve our military men and women. Tell us what prompted you to do this.

LL: It’s really no sacrifice, giving up a few Hershey’s Bars, Maybelline products, and Dominos Pizzas to thank them for all they do to improve the lives of others. Besides, ‘giving back’ feels so doggoned good!

Soldiers’ Angels exists to add comfort to the lives of deployed soldiers and their families. Care packages, filled and mailed solely by volunteers, arrive daily at military bases around the world. And the resilient family members who make it possible for these valiant men and women in uniform are given small but meaningful gifts, too.

Special Operations Warrior Foundation provides funds that allow the children of our fallen soldiers to go to college…something that, for many of them, would be impossible, otherwise.

The Wounded Warrior Foundation partners with many organizations and charities to give soldiers whose deployments have ended whatever assistance they need. From jobs to training for new careers, help in getting prostheses (and other medical/psychological aid), housing…you name it.

The main reason I choose to donate a large portion of my annual income to these organizations is because I see it as my duty…my way of “giving back.”

OA: Why do you choose to write inspirational romance versus secular books?

LL: When I was a reporter, writing for just about every major magazine and newspaper out there, I saw a disturbing,repeated trend: Editors, altering facts to appease advertisers. I figured if I was gonna write fiction, I might as well pen a novel. And if I was blessed enough to see it published, I wanted it to reach hard-working Christians who were looking for wholesome entertainment. As anyone in this business can tell you, there isn’t nearly as much money in writing faith-based fiction as there is writing secular stories. But they’ll also tell you it really isn’t about the money as much as it’s about using our talents to help spread God’s word.

OA: Which comes first when you write a book, the plot or the spiritual journey.

LL: It varies. Sometimes, a title comes to me first. Other times, an event wakes an idea that starts a series of “What if…?” and “And then what…?” questions that serve as the basic storyline. But without exception, answering the “What if?” and “And then what?” questions always goes hand in hand with a faith-based them, such as forgiveness, acceptance, trust and faith.

OA: How do you choose which Bible verses to include in a book?

LL: For me, the storyline dictates which passages make the most sense. As I present characters with issues, I introduce Biblical principles that will aid them in coping with conflicts, and brings them to a spiritual place that helps them resolve those difficulties.

OA: How do you balance showing a character’s spiritual journey without “preaching” to the reader?

LL: The only way to accomplish that, I believe, is to create characters my readers can easily identify with. The people I write about have flaws—sometimes, big ones—that make whatever goals they’re trying to reach impossible (or at the very least, a whole lot harder). As the characters turn to God for the strength to overcome their problems, readers see faith slowly unfolding. If the changes and growth required of my characters happened “overnight,” readers would never believe it. And why should they, when in real life, change and growth is a process that takes time, thought…and prayer.

OA: This may be like asking you to choose a favorite child but do you have a favorite character or book that you’ve written?

LL: I think of all the characters I’ve developed, I like Dusty Parker best. (He’s the hero in A Man of Honor, book #3 in the First Responders series.) Not only is he the character who was most willing to sacrifice for those he loves, Dusty is also a man with a lot of baggage. He overcame some huge obstacles from his past, and after finding Christ, approaches his life and those he shares it with grace and dignity…and he accomplishes this with a steadfast (other characters might say stubborn!) trust in the Lord.

OA: What is your favorite and least favorite part of writing a novel?

LL: My favorite part of writing a novel is dumping a boatload of troubles into characters’ laps…and having the power to help them solve every problem. To answer the second part of that question, I have to admit that I’ve never been one to blow my own horn. These days, with so many cut-backs in the publishing industry, authors are required to market their own books. It’s a strange, unnatural thing…this “shameless self-promotion. I compare it to preparing a mouth-watering 7-course gourmet dinner…and then facing the ugly task of cleaning up the pots and pans!

OA: Do you have advice for writers aspiring to be published?

LL: First, follow the usual advice: Read the genre you hope to publish; read how-to books (written by authors who’ve earned the right to tell you “how it’s done”); attend writing classes (seminars and workshops); sign up for conferences where you can meet and mingle with people who “get” the whole crazy mixed-up publishing industry.

Equally important is not to write “what you know,” because that limits your audience, a lot! And please, please, please don’t write “the book of your heart” unless you’ve done some thorough research and you know, without a doubt, that it contains the necessary elements to help you sell it.

OA: You have a quirky sense of humor that is reflected in your characters. Where do you get you inspiration?

LL: I’d have to give some of the credit to my quirky family. Every one of us—Mom (who passed away Aug. 9, 2011), Dad, and all 4 of my siblings are cut-ups. Then, I have to give some of the credit to Life. If not for my sense of humor, I doubt I could have survived a lot of what it threw at me!

OA: What do you have in the works for 2012?

LL: #2 in the First Responders series, “Honor Redeemed”, will release in February. In June of 2012, #3 in that series, “A Man of Honor,” will join it, and it’ll be followed soon after by “For Love of Eli”, one of the launch books in Abingdon’s Quilts of Love series. (Please pray for me: There are a few proposals under consideration that I’d love to see turned into books!)

OA: Loree, thanks for being a part of our 12 Days of Christmas and gifting us with this fun interview and a free book for one lucky reader! We’ll let you get back to preparing for Christmas. But before you go, what traditions are you looking forward to celebrating with your family?

LL: We always, always have a birthday cake that says “Happy Birthday, Baby Jesus.” After our big dinner, the family gathers round for dessert, but we aren’t allowed to eat a bite until we’ve sung the birthday song to our Savior. This helps even the littlest kids gathered focus on “the reason for the season,” and reminds grownups that Christmas isn’t about food, or decorations, or presents under the tree.

I’d like to thank Heather for her generosity in sharing her blog—and her regular followers—with me! And I’d also like to wish all of you a happy, healthy Christmas that’s filled with love, peace, and joy.

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Now for the contest. But First the Rules. Please read over them, they’ll likely answer any questions you have about the giveaway-if not, ask away.

This giveaway is open to US Residents, with the book mailed to the winner by the author.
(Canada friends, you can enter but only if you’re willing to send the author a SASE to mail your book. Sorry, postage is expensive!)

Here’s how you can enter to win a free copy of your choice of either “From Ashes to Honor” or “Love Finds You In Folly Beach, South Carolina.”

  1. Simply leave a comment under this post, with your name and email address (so I can contact you if you win! Email addresses are used for this contest only. I don’t collect or sale email addresses.)

BONUS ENTRIES (Leave a Separate Comment for each action you complete stating what you did along with your name and email.)

  1. Visit Loree’s website

  2. Like Loree on Facebook

  3. Read Loree’s newsletter

  4. Follow Loree on Twitter

  5. Friend Loree on ShoutLife

  6. Visit any (or all) of the charities that Loree supports. (See the interview for links.)

  7. Visit the sites of Loree’s publishers.

  8. Watch one of Loree’s book trailers.

  9. Subscribe to my blog.

  10. “Like’” my blog on Facebook.

The giveaway closes on Friday, Dec. 23 at 11:59pm. Winners will be announced on Saturday, Dec. 24 at 2p.m. Please check back every day through Dec. 23 for a different giveaway and interviews with authors.

*This post may contain affiliate links.

12 Days of CHRISTmas Rules

08 Dec 2011 5 Comments

by Heather H. in 12 Days of Christmas, Book Shelf

Please Note….Contest entries are not accepted on this page. Feel free to comment. BUT to enter a giveaway, click on the post for the giveaway you’d like to enter, and comment on that post. ~Blessings, Heather

Official Rules

1. There will be 12 separate giveaways-one per day from Monday, Dec. 12-Friday, Dec. 23.

2. All giveaways close at 11:59pm EST on Friday, Dec. 23.

3. Winners for each of the 12 giveaways will be drawn on Saturday, Dec. 24 and winners will be announced at 2:00pm EST on 12/24/11. Please check back to see if you’re a winner. You’ll see a posted title “Winners of the 12 Days of Christmas” or something similar.

4. There will be one winner of each giveaway-12 winners total.

5. Entrants may enter each giveaway. Each person may only win one giveaway during the 12 Days of Christmas.

6. Giveaways are open to residents of the US and her territories, unless otherwise stated. (Canada residents, we have some chances for you to win, too! We love all our friends around the world, but postage is expensive!)

7. To enter each giveaway, simply leave a comment with your name and email address on the post for the giveaway you wish to enter. (There will be instructions for bonus entries provided for each giveaway.) Please provide an email address so that I may contact you if you are a winner. If I can’t contact you, you can’t win. I do not collect or sell email addresses. Email addresses are used for the purpose of the 12 Days of CHRISTmas giveaways. *To stop SPAM collectors from harvesting your email please do not type the @ sign but write out at instead. Example: youremail at  hotmail.com

8. Winners must contact me via email or blog comment within 7 days (by Dec. 31) or I will pick another winner from the commentors.

This is my personal blog and it is not affiliated with any company, publisher, or author. I do not receive compensation from any company, sponsor, affiliate, author or other source. When I receive an advance or free copy of a book for review purposes this will be stated in the post. Receiving a free copy of a book does not obligate me to give a positive review. Reviews are my personal opinion. Thanks for reading my blog, please visit again!

Small package, big gift…Review of “Christmas Gifts” by Gail Gaymer Martin

08 Nov 2011 Leave a Comment

by Heather H. in Book Shelf Tags: , , , , ,

I have a rule…no Christmas songs, decorations or fa-la-la-la-la fun until December. Over the last few years I’ve become a little fanatical about it as stores begin decorating in October. But when it comes to books from my favorite authors I’m more impatient than a child on Christmas morning. So when I got Gail Gaymer Martin‘s new Love Inspired release “Christmas Gifts” in the mail I started reading it immediately (even though Halloween hadn’t arrived.)
You’ll want to read this book anytime of the year-curled up by the fire in December or on the beach in July.

Featuring "Small Town Christmas" by Gail Gaymer Martin and "Her Christmas Cowboy" by Brenda Minton

From the back cover
When seven-year-old twins act up in temporary teacher Amy Carroll’s class, she meets their very apologetic widowed father, Mike Russet. The handsome man has his hands full—but can two mini matchmakers and holiday cheer open his heart to Christmas romance?

Frazzled father Mike Russet is the man and the mom of the house. The widower is raising precocious seven-year-old twins Holly and Ivy.
Teacher Amy Carroll’s life is in upheaval. Budget cuts force her to leave her job in Chicago for a job in a small town. Even as she makes her new life she must deal with her baggage from the past.
Amy knows first hand what it’s liked to be raised by a single father. She sees a chance to help Mike give some tough love to the twins.
Mike sees beyond Amy’s beauty and hard shell.
The twins see a chance to help their favorite teacher find a permanent place in their school and in their daddy’s heart.
While Mike’s genuine faith challenges Amy to put the past to rest, Amy awakens feelings that the father thought he had buried with his wife.

The novel wraps up realism, romance, faith, and the magic of the season in one small package (It’s 110 pages and I read it in one sitting.) And “Christmas Gifts” keeps on giving with a bonus novel “Her Christmas Cowboy” by Brenda Minton.

I’m putting “Christmas Gifts” on my keeper shelf and I have a feeling I’ll be pulling it out this summer for a little Christmas in July!

Join Readers of Gail Gaymer Martin on Facebook.

Available in stores, online or as an ebook download.
*I was provided with a free copy of this book to review.

An Interview with author Gail Gaymer Martin

05 Sep 2011 6 Comments

by Heather H. in Book Shelf Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

In stores now

I read at least a book a week. But I don’t buy a lot of books-that’s what the public library is for. But there are a few authors whose books I always buy. I don’t even have to know what it’s about because the author has proven that I’m going to get my money’s worth and more every time. One of those writers is award winning author Gail Gaymer Martin. I recently devoured A Family of Their Own (September 2011 Love Inspired release and book 2 in the Dreams Come True series.) Click here for my review of book one A Dad of His Own.

I asked her to drop by my blog for a glass of sweet tea and a chat. But first a little about her new release.

A Family of Their Own is a story of healing and second chances. Two single parents-widower Ross and Kelsey, who was betrayed and abandoned by her husband- find common ground as they each raise daughters who are fighting life-threatening conditions. Kelsey is cautious and doubts they can overcome their differences in parenting and faith. In her trademark style, Mrs. Martin creates characters who are flawed even as they follow the road to faith. She balances the heartbreak and joys of parenting a sick child with hope, faith and love. I found myself wanting to pray for the girls’ health.

As an aspiring writer I’ve been following Mrs. Martin’s writing blog for years. She also posts tips for writers on her website. I’m honored to have her over for some virtual Southern hospitality.

Author Gail Gaymer Martin

Why do you choose to write inspirational romance instead of secular books? 

I am a lifelong Christian, born into a family of believers who attended church, and though they made mistakes and sinned, as we all do, they held on to the hope of Christ as their redeemer and savior. When I was first writing—which was not fiction but articles for magazines—I recalled my childhood dream which was to write novels. During my first or second conference, Gayle Roper told me about a bulletin board of writers on AOL (that was in 1996) and on that bulletin board I ran across a message that said anyone who wanted to write Christian romance could join a new group that was being established. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to write but that sounded fine with me. Little did I know the group included Francine Rivers, Liz Curtis Higgs, Karen Ball, Lisa Tawn Bergren , Linda Windsor, Annie Jones, and many more. They truly mentored me and I sold my first novel in 1998.

Which comes first as you write-the story or the spiritual journey.

As I develop a novel, usually I have a general idea of story along with types of characters and their problems which might include a faith issue. They come together in small pieces like a jigsaw puzzle with magnets and they begin to form a picture. The story and characters more fully develop when I delve into the character’s backstory. I learn what caused them to be the person they are today and how that affects their relationships, their dreams, their fears, their hopes. As these fall together, story deepens and grows. But story is always an adventure since I allow creativity to fill in the characters’ journey. Surprises always happen along the way.

How do you balance showing a character’s spiritual journey without “preaching” to the reader?

Preaching is the worst thing anyone can do in Christian fiction. It’s a turn off for most readers, even Christians. My character’s journeys stem from their inner conflicts and sometimes that can involved faith issues: why does God let this happen, does God hear my prayers, will God listen to me a sinner, and so on. Sometimes the problem is weak faith or lack of faith. I try to write my novels “real.” I present characters just as I live my life with the worries and fears along with the faith that is from my heart and soul. When faith discussions or a faith lessons stem from realistic issues or situations, they are not preachy. Preachy is when the story almost stops to drive home a point that is meant to sway the reader’s thinking. It’s long prayers and Bible verses filling the story as well as constant church scenes that can turn off readers.

Do you have a favorite character or book that you’ve written?

That’s like asking a mother which of her children she loves the most. I love each book as I write it. Some linger in my heart longer than some. Upon A Midnight Clear (my first book published by Love Inspired) is one. The Christmas Kite is another – my first single title from Steeple Hill. A Love for Safekeeping (an award winning romantic suspense) published by LI in 2002 was my first romantic suspense and is now available on Kindle.

What is your favorite and least favorite parts of writing a novel?

I love hearing from readers who have been touched and changed by one of my novels. My least favorite part is two things: the way being an author takes over my life and the other, doing what my editor calls “tweaking” a novel that’s contracted and complete. This often means almost rewriting the book.

Do you have advice for writers aspiring to be published?

Learn the craft. God-given talent is important but that doesn’t sell a book. Writing needs training and study, attending workshops and conferences, networking with writers, reading magazines and books on writing, and then practicing. Often the first novel doesn’t sell. The third or fourth or fifth or twentieth might. Patience, perseverance, practice, polish, and prayer for a story that grabs an editors heart and hangs on.

You mention in your blog posts and on Facebook that you’re active in music. Tell us about that.

My husband writes handbell music and he’s published. But I am very active in music. I’ve always been a singer since I was a child singing in elementary and high school choirs, then auditioned groups in college and a well-known madrigal group, and I sing with a well-known Christian chorale in the Detroit area. In church, I sing solos, participate in the choir, and a member of the praise team. I perform at church in handbells land handchimes. Years ago I played the piano for Sunday school. Don’t ask me now. I can barely remember how to play. :-)

How many of your books have been published?

I’ve been published by Steeple Hill/Love Inspired and Barbour Publishing as well as their Heartsong Presents line. My fiction totals 49 novels, I believe. I am also the author of Writing the Christian Romance from Writers Digest, and I have 27 books involving church resource materials of programs, skits and plays for adult and children in church and Sunday school.

Thanks, Heather, for inviting me to your blog. Readers can find me at www.gailmartin.com or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/people/Gail-Gaymer-Martin/1429640580 Writers can enjoy my blog Writing Fiction Right at www.writingright-Martin.blogspot.com

A Family of Their Own is available in paperback from Wal-Mart, Target, your local bookstore, or online. It’s also available as an ebook.

I was provided an Advance Reader Copy of A FAMILY OF THEIR OWN at no cost for review purposes. The opinions are my own and I was not a required to provide a positive review.

I’m Changing Tomorrow today…and so can you!

21 Aug 2011 Leave a Comment

by Heather H. in Africa Daycares

All t-shirt proceeds support a Soup Kitchen in Africa which will give meals to HIV/AIDS children.

I felt a tug of my middle school days Sunday morning as I got dressed for church. My friend Wendy and I decided ahead of time to wear our “I’m Changing Tomorrow” t-shirts. (Back in the day my girls and I used to dress alike in our Gap and New York and Company shirts.)

We got a lot of questions about why were dressed alike and what the t-shirts meant.

Sunday morning we got a chance to share the mission of Changing Tomorrow Children’s Foundation and Susan’s Kids with several folks in our church.

I’ve also worn the shirt for the last two Saturdays during my shift as a cashier. (Yes, I’ve washed the shirt already, I promise.) I’ve had a couple dozen of comments from customers. Thankfully my boss has allowed me to quickly explain to those that ask that ALL proceeds from the sales of these shirts will be given to Changing Tomorrow Children’s Foundation to fund the CTCF Shipping Container Soup Kitchen Project in Lesotho, Africa which will provided meals for children receiving treatment at an HIV/AIDS hospital.

Most folks have reacted positively. One woman from out-of-state asked me how she could give and I quickly scribbled down the web addresses. I’m going to have to start carrying around cards to hand out!

The slogan really does get people’s attention. All lot of people have a humorous comment in response.

“Thanks for changing.” (ahem…As if I’m not wonderful just the way I am.)

“Shouldn’t you change today first?”

“I tried changing once at work but decided it wasn’t worth it.”

Once they’ve brought up the subject of my t-shirt then I feel comfortable explaining how God is meeting the physical and spiritual needs of these children.

I’m excited about the seeds that the Holy Spirit is planting each time a person wears one of these t-shirts. Beyond the immediate need for nourishment of the children in Lesotho, I pray that the Holy Spirit will use these shirts (and you and me) to spark conversations about salvation

T-shirts are $20 sizes S-XXL. You can buy one through Jason White’s blog Second and Content. Or message me and I’ll get you in contact with Jason. They’ll also be for sale during the Carolina Country Stampede festival in downtown Williamston Sept. 23-24 at Memorial Baptist Church’s booth.

WIm Van Rensburg founder of Changing Tomorrow Children’s Foundation will be in the US Sept. 3-Oct. 3. He’ll be speaking in NC as well as FL, SC, VA and PA. Hop over to CTCF Facebook page for his speaking schedule.

Too nice?

17 Aug 2011 2 Comments

by Heather H. in Uncategorized

I’m just too nice! I told myself after agreeing to do a favor for someone who I judged as undeserving of this particular show of grace. My attitude felt justified, fueled by a memory of a similar situation from several years ago when this same person had been in my shoes and hadn’t extended me kindness. (Yes I said years ago. My big feet aren’t the only thing I have in common with an elephant.) I’m guilty of (?unintentionally?) keeping a mental notebook filled with the times I’ve been wronged by someone.
I say guilty because as I gave props to myself for being “too nice” and not repaying “an eye for an eye” my celebration came to a screeching halt when a scripture verse pricked my conscience.

“…(love) keeps no record of wrongs.” 1 Corinthians 13:5 NIV

But I don’t love this person Lord, was my response.

My protests were immediately stopped as another verse cut to the heart of the matter.

“Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.” 1 John 4:20-21 NIV

Tough words. They seemed pretty straightforward.  As opened my Bible app to see if there was any wiggle room I remembered the words of a DC Talk song “In the Light” inspired by 1 John 2:9-11.

“9Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates a brother or sister[b] is still in the darkness. 10Anyone who loves their brother and sister[c] lives in the light, and there is nothing in them to make them stumble. 11But anyone who hates a brother or sister is in the darkness and walks around in the darkness. They do not know where they are going, because the darkness has blinded them.”

My celebration turned to mourning the sin of my self-righteous attitude. I repented of my arrogance. And as I turn from this sin, I pray that next time I feel “too nice” that I’ll remember the adage

“Mercy is not getting what you deserve. Grace is getting what you don’t deserve”

The day after reading these verses I saw an interesting article that relates to my situation. Check out the CNN article “Nice guys earn less, study finds.”

Would you rather make a higher salary or be known by your co-workers as Christian because of your deeds?

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