Guest review of Yada Yada Gets Decked Out

I haven't read the Yada Yada series, so when I received a copy to review I gave it to a very special friend who loves this series! Fi devoured it immediately and has been kind enough to share her thoughts here. She has done such a fantastic job, I think you might see some more guest reviews from her :) Sound good, Fi???

Synopsis:~

Turkey dinners, tree trimming, and decking the halls--it's that time of year again! And I Jodi Baxter, can't wait to celebrate. My kids are coming home for Thanksgiving and Christmas, and then all of us Yadas are getting decked out for a big New Year's party.

But God's idea of "decked out" might just change the nature of our party plans. A perplexing encounter with a former student, a crime that literally knocks me off my feet, a hurry-up wedding, and a child who will forever change our family...it's times like these that I really need my prayer sisters.

This holiday season, we Yada Yadas are learning that no one can out celebrate God. So let's get this party started!


Fi's take:~

It was with a mixture of excitement and sadness that I leapt into this final instalment of the Yada Yada series. Anxious to know what happens after the 'big announcement' at the end of book 6, I was ecstatic when Rel asked me to read and review it. Not wanting to give too much away, all I will say is The Yada Yada Prayer Group Gets Decked Out did not disappoint me. It is everything that fans of this series haved loved and enjoyed in the previous books.

I have always come away from Yada Yada having gained much in spiritual walk, as well as enjoying a great read and book 7 was no exception. I once again enjoyed Jodi's journey as she continues to learn to trust God and relinquish things to him (I so relate).Packed with themes of grace, prayer, forgiveness, praise and a poignant reminder of what Christmas is all about, I found myself reaching for the tissue box several times.

I laughed, I cried...... I loved it!! The only thing left to do now is go back to the beginning and start all over again. I look forward to the new series from Neta Jackson with great anticipation.

On the seventh day of Christmas...

Celebrating the true meaning of the Christmas season, GRPR is proud to introduce to you the twelve days of Christmas. Twelve inspired devotional thoughts written by some of the best and brightest authors in the Christian industry. On the seventh day of Christmas, my true love gave to me.... The Gift of Uniqueness

God's Gift of Uniqueness by Tosca Lee I used to hate my name. “Tosca” was too unusual. “Moon,” my middle name, was just downright embarrassing. “Lee” was all right, though it still set me apart from the rest of the Caucasian kids in my school. In an era when Christy Brinkley graced the cover of every fashion magazine, I did not wish to accentuate my different-ness. The name I really wanted was Marie--probably because others had it and that meant I could at least buy one of those door plates for my bedroom door or license plates for my bike, which was my litmus test. As it was, they sure didn’t have plates for kids named “Tosca.” In junior high, my friends called me “Weird Tosca.” I didn’t like that so much. These days I teach about talent in my work as a consultant. I talk about the strange, quirky things that not only set people apart, but have the potential to make them great. A friend said to me once, “Stars have points.” He’s right. And when we blunt our points, we lose the defining characteristics of our unique mark in and contribution to this world. Opportunities work much the same. It’s the unique ones that seem to hold the greatest potential impact. When my main character, Clay, bumps up against the opportunity to hear the story of creation from the viewpoint of a Demon, he is terrified--intrigued, but terrified. And so he resists. While his reaction might be in keeping with any sane person’s, it’s also a human reaction to the unusual. But in this case, it’s the unusual that might just might save his soul. How has God revealed to you your uniquness? And what, most importantly, is He telling you to do with it? Weird Tosca “You need to know something more about Elohim: he is the ultimate force of creativity. He is the author of diversity.” --Lucian, Demon: A Memoir Tosca Lee is the author of Demon: A Memoir and of the upcoming Havah: The Story of Eve. For more information visit www.demonamemoir.com

On the sixth day of Christmas...

Celebrating the true meaning of the Christmas season, GRPR is proud to introduce to you the twelve days of Christmas. Twelve inspired devotional thoughts written by some of the best and brightest authors in the Christian industry. On the sixth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me.... The Gift of Unconditional Acceptance

God's Gift of Unconditional Acceptance by Lisa Samson Clearly God Incarnate wasn't choosy. He wasn't born in a palace, but to a simple peasant woman bearing the stigma of a pregnancy conceived out of the bonds of matrimony. He wasn't even born in his own town, but endured a long ride to Bethlehem in his mother's womb only to be born in a stable among the livestock. Even after his ministry began he owned one robe and proclaimed himself homeless when He said, "Foxes have dens, birds have nest, but the Son of God has no place to lay His head." If we used some TV preachers' standards today, Jesus clearly wasn't blessed by God. He didn't have the finest clothes, transportation or housing. Even most of His disciples weren't exactly candidates for a PhD. Clearly He must not have had enough faith if that's all He was getting from His Father! But Christ isn't choosy and that is good news for us. For there isn't a single human being who can impress Him into shining His light of grace upon them. The stockbroker on Wall Street stands level with the illegal immigrant who picks strawberries. The evangelist in fine suits or sparkly dresses looks eye-to-eye with the busdriver. And the homeschool mom stands shoulder to shoulder with the prostitute. His love demands He looks above the good and the bad, and His arms are always open, ready to receive us when we are ready to receive Him. Sometimes we run back into His arms many times in one day and He doesn't care if we've showered or put on the latest fashions, He's only looking for a contrite heart. That's it. A heart that says, "I'm sorry." This Christmastime, rest in the fact that you can't impress Christ. He doesn't care about our beautiful cookies or the fact that our trees look designer coordinated. He isn't impressed we ran around to ten different stores to find the perfect present for Aunt Sue. He just wants us to love Him, just as we are, for when we do, we incarnate Him in the here and now, and there's no telling what He'll do through us. Lisa Samson is the author of Hollywood Nobody (NavPress, 2007), For more information visit www.lisasamson.com

The winners are...

ad receives a copy of Standing Strong;

Jewlz & Leola receive a set each of the four books ~ congratulations!

Please email me your snail mail address at relzreviewz @ gmail . com (minus spaces).

And because Donna is Donna and one of the most generous people I know, if you entered but didn't win send Donna an e-mail at donna (at) donnafleisher (dot) com to find out how you can still win! Sounds good, doesn't it!

Thanks so much, Donna and all those who entered!

On the fifth day of Christmas...

Celebrating the true meaning of the Christmas season, GRPR is proud to introduce to you the twelve days of Christmas. Twelve inspired devotional thoughts written by some of the best and brightest authors in the Christian industry. On the fifth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me.... The Gift of Imagination

God's Gift of Imagination by Jack Cavanaugh Christmas is a holiday for the imagination. Angels and shepherds and wise men (oh my!), Tyrants and taxes and stars in the sky! No room for a bed As tidings were spread And the Father looked down from on high. It’s no wonder the story of the nativity thrills our hearts year after year. It’s a wonderfully creative event orchestrated by a Deity who loves using His imagination. Take the temple priest’s robes for example. When the temple was first built God assembled all the skilled craftsmen and gave them instructions (Exodus 35:10). The craftsmen designing the priestly robes were told to adorn them with images of blue pomegranates (Exodus 39:24). Blue? There’s no such thing as a blue pomegranate! What was God thinking? If this kind of creativity were to catch on we could end up with Christmas cards with images of green angels, pink Christmas trees, and a plaid star over the manger! If blue pomegranates bothers you…get over it! We have a wonderfully imaginative God who frequently colors outside the lines. Go, and do thou likewise. Wishing you an imaginative Christmas season. Jack Cavanaugh is the author of Hideous Beauty: Kingdom Wars #1 and countless other books. For more information visit www.JackCavanaugh.com.

Finding Father Christmas by Robin Jones Gunn & US giveaway

Synopsis:~

Miranda Carson's desperate search for her father takes a turn she never expected when she finds herself in London a few days before Christmas with only a few feeble clues to who her father might be. Unexpectedly welcomed into a family that doesn't recognize her, and whom she's quickly coming to love, Miranda faces a terrible decision. Should she reveal her true identity and destroy their idyllic image of her father?

Or should she carry the truth home with her to San Francisco and remain alone in this world? Whatever choice she makes during this London Christmas will forever change the future for both herself and the family she can't bear to leave.

My take:~

Finding Father Christmas is a treat to read as Christmas Day approaches. It is a wonderful story of generosity, discovery and hope set against the snowy backdrop of Christmas Eve in the village of Carlton Heath in England. Having lived a desolate life since her actress mother died, American Miranda Carson impulsively takes a trip to the UK on Christmas Eve, to seek out clues about the identity of the father she has never known. Welcomed in to the Christmas celebrations of two families, Miranda is faced with an agonising choice.

Robin Jones Gunn's little novella is bursting with appealing characters and captures the joy of Christmas, the heartfelt emotions of a lost soul and the sometimes painful reality of speaking the truth. You will love following Miranda's journey and will enjoy sharing with her the kindness of strangers and the acceptance and comfort only God can give. Just delightful!

If you meet the following criteria you will be entered in to the draw for a copy of this Christmas story:~

1. Have a US or Canadian mailing address;
2. Post by midnight Monday 17th December; and
3. Tell me your favourite Christmas gift to give!

On the fourth day of Christmas.....

Celebrating the true meaning of the Christmas season, GRPR is proud to introduce to you the twelve days of Christmas. Twelve inspired devotional thoughts written by some of the best and brightest authors in the Christian industry. On the fourth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me.... The Gift of God's Patience

The Gift of God's Patience by Griffin Smith (written by Todd & Jedd Hafer) Thanks for reading, everybody. My name is Griffin Smith. I’m in my second year at Lewis College (Go Eagles!) on the track team. Specifically, I run distance. Okay, I realize “distance” isn’t really specific at all. In high school I ran the 1600 and 3200 meters – that’s the mile and 2-mile for those of still holding strong in the anti-metric resistance. As a runner and big-time sinner, the gift I am most thankful for this Christmas (and every day) is patience. Not my own, as my dad likes to say “looooong-suffering”. No, I could use a ton more. I routinely lose my patience in class, in races, in relationships – even with my little brother Colby who overcame the burden of being named after cheese to become the sweetest kid on the planet. The amazing gift is God’s patience. His patience with me – the most unsweetened kid on the planet (and I know that is not the most grammatically sound phrase, but it’s tough for me to write about positive subjects, so, if we’re going to play ball, you’re going to have to indulge me). Anyway, I constantly criticize myself, even punish myself (since we’re trying to be positive, I won’t get into that now), but God, He just keeps loving me. I try to squirm away, I even bend God’s fingers back, He just patiently holds on. I swear the guy must be double-jointed. I’m definitely thankful for that grip though. I’d hate to think He’d ever let go. The point is I know He never will. It’s just not in His nature. Good news for people like me! You can read more of Griffin Smith’s ramblings about his surface life and his private pain in the novels Bad Idea: A novel with Coyotes and From Bad to Worse: A novel with Girls by Todd and Jedd Hafer

On the third day of Christmas.....

Celebrating the true meaning of the Christmas season, GRPR is proud to introduce to you the twelve days of Christmas. Twelve inspired devotional thoughts written by some of the best and brightest authors in the Christian industry. On the third day of Christmas, my true love gave to me.... The Gift of Restoration

God's Gift of Restoration by Rachel Thoene When I was but a wee child, I had many opportunities to travel with my dad’s folks, Nonnie and Papa, on trips to the coast with their house trailer. My Nonnie was religious about packing sandwiches, fresh home made cookies and fruit for the trip. She wrapped the cookies and sandwiches in wax paper… this was before the days of juice boxes and Lunchables… and the whole picnic was packed neatly into one or two sturdy shoe boxes for the trip. A thermos of coffee for she and Papa and one of milk for me. The trip to the coast was only about two and a half hours long, but about half way there, Papa would slow the rig to a wide spot in the road and we would have a “picnic” together before continuing on our way to the ocean. I was asked to contribute some thoughts on the gift of God’s restoration vs. life’s destination. As I mulled a few thoughts over, it occurred to me that Nonnie’s “shoe box lunches” were a lot like God’s gift of restoration… Sure we had a destination in mind. It was exciting to get out of the valley and go spend time at the ocean with the sand and the waves and time all to myself with my Nonnie and Papa collecting shells… but the picnic lunch on the side of the road DURING the trip restored us and provided a brief respite in our journey. Lately, my heart has been troubled and anxious as I have been caring for a friend with a very serious cancer. And I have found myself, head down, walking my campus during the day at work, talking to God about her condition and the outcome of all of this agony…And as I have conversed with Him on these strolls, I have picked up an amazing number of Pennies… every day… pennies… sometimes it’s only one or two, sometimes I’ve found 12 or more… but every day…pennies. And the curious thing is that every single one of those pennies says, “In God we Trust.” And I pick them up, put them in my pocket and say, “Thank you Lord. We are blessed today and we are whole, healthy, healed and restored…” I believe that my friend is going to be well at the end of all of this, because God reminds me daily through those pennies to TRUST HIM”. And every penny draws me closer to Him so that I am focusing now on the moment and my conversation with Him, daily being restored in my faith and claiming her healing and I’m not any longer worrying about the destination or when we’re going to get there, because we have been given THIS MOMENT and in THIS Moment, I’m going to just pull my rig to the side of the road and have a picnic with Him in my heart. Rachel Thoene is the author of The Vase Of Many Colors (Capstone Books, 2007), For more information visit www.thoenebooks.com

CFBA Blog Tour of What Lies Within by Karen Ball

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
What Lies Within
Multnomah Fiction (November 20, 2007)
by
Karen Ball

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Karen Ball , bestselling novelist, is also the editor behind several of today's bestselling Christian novels. Her love for words was passed down through her father and grandfather - both pastors who shared God's truth through sermons and storytelling. Blending humor, poignancy, and honesty, Karen's writing style is a powerful force for revealing God's truth. She lives in Oregon with her husband, Don, and their "kids," Bodhan, a mischief-making Siberian husky, and Dakota, an Aussie-terrier mix who should have been named "Destructo."

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Nothing’s going to stop Kyla…

until the ground crumbles beneath her feet.

Kyla Justice has arrived. Her company, Justice Construction, is one of the most critically acclaimed, commercially successful companies in the Pacific Northwest. And yet, something is missing. Not until she’s called on to build a center for inner-city kids does she realize what it is: her sense of purpose. Now nothing can stop her, not the low budget, not supply problems, not gang opposition, not her boyfriend’s suggestion that she sell her business and marry him–and most especially not that disagreeable Rafael Murphy.

Rafe Murphy understands battle. Wounded in action, this Force Recon Marine carries the scars–and the nightmares–to prove it. Though he can’t fight overseas any longer, he’s found his place as a warrior in the civilian world. So he soldiers on, trusting that one of these days, God will reveal to him why Rafe survived the ambush in Iraq. That day has arrived.

Kyla and Rafe both discover that determination alone won’t carry them through danger and challenges. When gang violence threatens their very foundations, there’s only one way to survive: rely on each other, be real–and surrender to God. In other words, risk everything…

I loved this book, so much so I have chosen it for one of my book club's 2008 selections!

Read my review here and for more on Karen herself, some fascinating revelations about her well known author friends and her favourite lines from The Princess Bride, read our interview here! Enjoy :)

On the second day of Christmas....

Celebrating the true meaning of the Christmas season, GRPR is proud to introduce to you the twelve days of Christmas. Twelve inspired devotional thoughts written by some of the best and brightest authors in the Christian industry. On the second day of Christmas, my true love gave to me.... The Gift of Simplicity

God's Gift of Simplicity by Wanda E. Brunstetter The Amish people I write about celebrate Christmas in a much simpler way than most of us do. There are no Christmas trees or colored lights in their homes. The gifts they give one another are simple and functional, not elaborate or expensive. Their emphasis at Christmas is on the birth of Jesus and the love they feel for God, family, and friends. Anyone can give the gift of simplicity, and it can be given any time of the year. A smile, a hug, a listening ear. . .these are the gifts of simplicity. Wanda E. Brunstetter is the author of many Amish themed books including the latest A Sister's Secret (Barbour Books, 2007) , the first installation in the Sisters of Holmes County series. Watch for the second installment, A Sister's Test, in January 2008. For more information visit www.wandabrunstetter.com

Echoes by Kristen Heitzmann

Haunted by an oppressive relationship and the traumatic fall out when it ceased, Sofie Michelli yearns to move on from the pitying stares of friends and the compassionate yet overwhelming concern of her ebullient Italian-American family.

Offered a place of solace by her brother Lance in the Sonoma villa being restored by his girlfriend, Rese Barrett, Sofie tentatively reaches out to others, especially an abandoned baby and an abused child.

Matt Hammond has given up the opportunity of a lucrative law practice for the difficult and wearying job as a Child Protective Service worker. Meeting the luminous yet troubled Sofie Michelli has him hoping for more than a man like him deserves.

Kristen Heitzmann's concluding story, Echoes which follows the remarkable Secrets and Unforgotten is both draining and uplifting. This story delves deeply in to the heart and mind of a women almost consumed by the "love" of a charismatic yet emotionally unhealthy man. Sofie's journey is painful and agonisingly real as she searches for truth and healing. Matt is also deeply troubled by his past, burdened with anger and bitterness against his unforgiving father and attempting to assuage his own guilt by saving others. Seamlessly woven around Matt and Sofie's story is the ongoing tale of Lance's love for Rese and his battle to win back her trust while coming to terms with his God-given gift of healing. Every single character in this story is drawn with great depth and dimension, showcasing Kirsten's exceptional talent. I was drawn to each one and shared their heartaches and joys as if I was rooming at the villa.

My expectations are sky high each time I open a Kristen Heitzmann novel. I am delighted to say Kristen has managed to exceed those expectations every time and Echoes is no exception. Do not miss this compelling series!

On the first day of Christmas.....

Celebrating the true meaning of the Christmas season, GRPR is proud to introduce to you the twelve days of Christmas. Twelve inspired devotional thoughts written by some of the best and brightest authors in the Christian industry. On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me.... The Gift of Honesty

God's Gift of Honesty by Mark Littleton As a new Christian, I wasn’t really prepared for the stark truth about my previous life. Rummaging in my closet, I came across several shirts I had shop-lifted a couple of years before. I immediately remembered several items from the same heist. Standing there trembling, I was unsure about what to do. I prayed, “God, what should I do about this?” It seemed the inner voice spoke immediately: “You need to return them to the store.” I didn’t need to reflect much on it. I knew that was the right thing to do. I packed up the items, drove to the nearby Bamberger’s store at the Cherry Hill Mall and found security. I explained what I’d done and offered to pay for the items. The guard smiled. “Every now and then we get one of these,” he said. “I’ll find out the prices and you can pay.” A few days later, I got the call. Over sixty-five dollars in charges. In 1972 dollars, that was a lot of money. I sucked it up, though, wrote out a check and dropped it by. The guard thanked me for my integrity, saying, “I wish there were more like you out there. But shop-lifting costs us big-time. Just the same, I respect what you did.” I went away feeling like I’d pleased God. There were other things I would return in the coming days, and it was always difficult. And costly. But the peace of mind and heart I received were all worth it. To say nothing of the witness to unbelievers, one of whom invited me to come visit him and his family in Switzerland after I sent him back the stamps I’d stolen while babysitting his children years before. Mark Littleton is the author of The Ten-Second Prayer Principle: Powerful Prayer As You Go (Howard Books, 2007) and many other books. For more information visit life-ology.townhall.com or www.winsunliterary.com.

Coming in 2008 from two of my favourite authors!

Anathema by Colleen Coble

An Amish Romantic Suspense Novel from Million-selling Award-winning Novelist Colleen Coble.

Hannah Schwartz slipped away from her Amish family to meet with her beau, Reece Ericson. When she returned, she discovered her parents murdered and their handmade quilts stolen.

Years later, a shunned Hannah returns to the scene of the crime in hopes of restoring her family and her faith. But while much has changed in Hannah's life, the danger at home now threatens with a vengence.

RITA finalist Colleen Coble lives with her husband, Dave, in Indiana. She is the author of several novels including The Rock Harbor Series, The Aloha Reef Series, and two Women of Faith fiction selections, Alaska Twilight and Midnight Sea .

Coming in May, 2008 from Thomas Nelson.

Deeper Water by Robert Whitlow

Leaving behind the farming life and her large, Bible-believing family, Tami Taylor accepts a job with a prestigious Savannah, Georgia, law firm. There, she quickly discovers the politics of a city with many ghosts.

Tami's first client, Moses Jones, sees faces in the deep waters off the coast of Savannah--the faces of dead folks long buried. Defending Jones against charges of trespassing invigorates Tami's quick mind while two attorneys at the firm vie for her heart. But as the charges against Jones escalate to murder, Tami is immersed in a world of crime, cover-up, and muddled ethics.

Robert Whitlow is the best-selling author of legal thrillers set in the South and winner of the prestigious Christy Award for Contemporary Fiction. A Furman University graduate, Whitlow received his J.D. with honors from the University of Georgia School of Law where he served on the staff of the Georgia Law Review. A practicing attorney, Whitlow and his wife, Kathy, have four children. They make their home in North Carolina.

Coming in June, 2008 from Thomas Nelson.

Interview with Karen Hancock

Karen Hancock broke new ground writing Christian fantasy novels of exceptional quality when she released Arena in 2002 and The Light of Eidon in 2003. I have been captivated by her characters and their spiritual journeys in all her books and am looking forward to more of Karen's stories. Despite breaking her arm (yes, the writing one!) Karen found time to answer my many questions:~


ON WRITING...


Please share some of your writing/publishing journey with us

I've been making up stories for my own amusement ever since I can remember and started writing them down when I was about 13. I wrote an entire novel (western) in high school. After marriage and college, we had moved to northern Arizona and I had a lot of time on my hands - no car, no job, no children, my husband working long hours, few friends - and was complaining about a best seller I was reading at the time. My husband suggested I write my own book if I didn't like the ones I read (not knowing of my previous writing experience) and the next day I started doing just that.

I was a Christian by then, having been saved in college and decided to return to my western, but make it a Christian story now, because Christianity was what excited and interested me. About six months after that I saw the very first Star Wars movie, was impressed by the analogies to Christianity I saw in it, and scrapped the western for science fiction. That subsequently turned to fantasy, and became the four books in the Legends of the Guardian King, now nearly 30 years later.

I wrote the first two volumes in that series and got an agent in the general market, but the books were not taken, and I was told to write something entirely different. So I wrote Arena, which also was rejected from the general market. Then the Lord arranged for me to go to the Mt. Hermon Christian Writer's conference where I met Steve Laube, then an editor for Bethany House. A year and a half later, at Steve's urging they bought it. When it came time for Arena to release in 2002, the reviews were so good on it, the Bethany House marketing department bought all four of the Guardian-King books - and published them, the last of the series, Return of the Guardian King, having come out last April (2007).

Why Christian fiction?

Firstly, Christianity is my passion and my life, and one is always supposed to write about what one knows and cares most deeply about. Secondly, I believe I've been called to illuminate in my books the reality of the unseen Angelic Conflict going on around us, and the character and nature of God as He relates to that conflict and to us. I don't think I could write something that wasn't explicitly Christian.

What kept you busy before the writing bug bit?

I started writing my stories down in the eighth grade, as I mentioned earlier, so I can't recall much of what kept me busy then. [smile] However, my other interests include or have included sketching and painting (watercolour), home schooling, reading, movies, hiking, camping, backpacking and our dogs.

What project or book are you working on now?

Currently I'm working on a standalone for Bethany House tentatively titled Black Box. Unrelated to Legends of the Guardian-King, Black Box is more like Arena in that it has a contemporary setting, but is a world within our world rather than a world outside of our world. It follows a young genetics graduate, Lacey McHenry, who accepts a prestigious research fellowship at a world-renowned longevity institute, seeing it as a new start on a life that's so far gone nowhere. But when a disturbing late night encounter with a psychopathic intruder leads to an unexpected cover-up by institute authorities, she soon finds herself in over her head, a lone mouse in an elaborate game of deception and seduction whose purpose she cannot begin to guess. The book is set in bizarre world that is part of our own, yet separate from it, and uses cults, cloning, ancient civilizations, aliens, and the nature of perception and deceit to explore the greatest mystery of all: human volition.

The first draft is due the end of March 08, with a Spring '09 release date.

What does a regular writing day look like for you?

Chaos! LOL.

Seriously, it's been a constant struggle. When I'm under deadline, I do pretty much nothing but write, eat, do my daily Bible class and sometimes exercise. Actually I've been under deadline for about four years now, so last summer when I broke my arm and could do nothing but lie on the couch, it was a vacation. And it's changed the way I look at things. I'm in the process of developing a new, saner routine. One that doesn't result in my house being consumed by dust and, in the summer months, mildew!

ON THE LEGENDS OF THE GUARDIAN KING SERIES...

Christian fantasy ~ why?

I've read fantasy pretty much all my life, and especially as an adult. Of all the genres, fantasy most leans toward illustrating important spiritual truths regarding why we are here and what life is about. Even secular fantasies do so--in rather great numbers, surprisingly enough. Typically, epic fantasies depict great battles between supernatural forces of good and evil, an obvious parallel to the invisible supernatural war Christians fight on earth. Knowing about this battle and our place in it gives our lives meaning and purpose. Even if we must engage in mundane activities, we can know that they have great significance in the unseen war.

I've written an essay that develops this subject on my website. You can find that here.

Who is your favourite character in the series and why?

Abramm. He's my favourite character of all my books. I love his transformation, his strength, his honor, his persistence, and the ways his life and character echoes elements of the Savior.

If the series was made into a movie, who would you cast?

I'm not sure I could do it. I might have to let someone else do it, and then complain that the choice wasn't right! It would be kind of like casting someone to play your brother or your husband - you know them too well to accept someone “pretending” to be them.

How do you come up with place/people names when creating a fantasy world?

Generally I have an idea of what flavour I want a culture to have, based on one of the cultures from our own world, and try to make the names echo that flavour. Sometimes I use Greek or Hebrew words from the Bible. Kiriath is Hebrew for city, Chesedh means grace. Elpis is Greek for hope or confidence… They have to sound right to me, too. Some of it's sensible and rational, I guess, and some of it's purely personal delight.

What impact do you hope these books have upon the reader?

It's my hope that my books will awaken and inspire readers to how cool God really is, how utterly trustworthy and reliable, no matter what sight might tell us. I also hope they'll be enlightened with regard to God's plan for our lives as believers, and that unseen spiritual battle I mentioned earlier, where things are seldom as they seem on the surface.

ON MATTERS PERSONAL...

Do you read Christian fiction yourself? If so, some favourite authors or books both Christian and/or secular?

Actually I read more general market stuff than Christian, but I have enjoyed Kathy Tyers's books, Lord of the Rings, Stephen Lawhead's books. Recently I enjoyed Sharon Hinck's The Restorer. I also like books by Robin Hobb, Connie Willis, Michael Crichton, Dean Koontz, and C.S. Forester (if you're familiar with these you can see I'm all over the map.)

What are you reading at the moment?

Intuition, by Allegra Goodman. Contemporary novel about a cancer research lab that seems to have come up with a cure for cancer and the negative consequences of jealousy, bitterness and a rush to judgment… It's very good.

Favourite movie and favourite line from a movie?

Gladiator.

Who inspires you?

The word of God is my biggest inspiration, but I've also been moved by the Hornblower stories/films, Dean Koontz, Robin Hobb and various musical CDs and soundtracks like Gladiator, The Man in the Iron Mask, Handel's Water Music, Secret Garden's Once in a Red Moon and currently, the soundtrack to Transformers.

Please share some of your faith journey...

More than 25 years ago I left my college area apartment to go to a meeting with a man who would supposedly answer all my questions about the Bible and Creation versus the theory of Evolution, which I passionately supported. As I locked the front door, I remember saying to myself, "Those people think they're going to convert me, but they're wrong. No one can know for sure which explanation is right because no one was actually there back when whatever happened happened."

The man did answer all my questions -- every one of them. I just didn't understand any of his answers. What I did understand -- suddenly, stunningly -- was the reality of the person of the Lord Jesus Christ and the fact that I deeply desired to know Him. Without understanding much of anything about what sin was, I acknowledged I was a sinner and believed that He died for me on the cross some 2000 years ago.

I came home utterly changed. Family members couldn't figure out what was the matter with me. "What happened?" one asked. "Did they give you some sort of injection over there at that church?"

I was one of those wildly enthusiastic, intensely emotional converts. Evolution flew out the window and I've never looked back, concentrating instead on learning what the Word of God has to say about life, the world, God himself and everything else.

Some essential Aussie questions...

When/if you make the trip Down Under what do you want to see first? A platypus or a koala?

It's a draw. I'd be equally delighted to see either of them!

Barrier Reef or Uluru (Ayers Rock)?

Barrier Reef - I've read too many stories about it and the Great White sharks, etc…

Would you taste Vegemite if given the opportunity?

For some reason this word makes me think of fertilizer… which isn't terribly appetizing. I have no idea what Vegemite is. Is it cheating to go look it up on Google?

Any last words...

Ooh. Having taken SOOO long to get back to you with the answers to your Interview questions, Rel, I'd like to say thank you for your patience and for the opportunity to visit your blog!

Thanks so much Karen ~ hope the healing process speeds up for you. It has been a pleasure :)

My review of Karen's most recent book, Return of the Guardian King can be found here.

Coming in 2008 from Revell...

Skizzer by A.J. Kiesling

Description: Claire Trowling is on a quest. After receiving news of her sister Becca's abrupt disappearance, Claire must piece together the shadowy remnants of a past she's long forgotten in order to find her. A cryptic note scrawled in Becca's handwriting leaves more questions than it answers: "Something both terrible and wonderful has happened. I can't explain now..." When a stack of mysterious letters bound by a rare necklace is found, Claire heads to England--the source of the heirloom--for answers. With the help of a rectory gardener she remembers from her childhood, Claire races to discover the secrets that hold her family captive. Suspenseful and full of intrigue, Skizzer takes readers on a transcontinental hunt for answers weaving seamlessly between the distant past of childhood and the urgency of the present.

A. J. Kiesling is the author of more than a dozen books and has worked as a writer and editor in the Christian publishing industry since 1985. She is a former religion writer for Publishers Weekly and a former news editor for Christian Retailing magazine.




A Passion Most Pure by Julie Lessman

Description: Refusing to settle for anything less than a romantic relationship that pleases God, Faith O'Connor steels her heart against her desire for the roguish Collin McGuire. But when Collin tries to win her sister Charity's hand, Faith isn't sure she can handle the jealousy she feels. To further complicate matters, Faith finds herself the object of Collin's affections, even as he is courting her sister. The Great War is raging overseas, and a smaller war is brewing in the O'Connor household. Full of passion, romance, rivalry, and betrayal, A Passion Most Pure will captivate readers from the first page. Book 1 of the Daughters of Boston series.

Julie Lessman is a new and exciting author with a bright future ahead of her. Even as a debut novelist, Lessman has already garnered writing awards, including ten Romance Writers of America awards, and developed a fan base.





Stuck in the Middle by Virginia Smith

Description: Joan Sanderson's life is stuck. Her older sister, Allie, is starting a family and her younger sister, Tori, has a budding career. Meanwhile, Joan is living at home with Mom and looking after her aging grandmother. Not exactly a recipe for excitement. That is, until a hunky young doctor moves in next door. Suddenly Joan has a goal--to get a date. But it won't be easy. Pretty Tori flirts relentlessly with him and Joan is sure that she can't compete. But with a little help from God, Allie, and an enormous mutt with bad manners, maybe Joan can find her way out of this rut.

Book 1 of the Sister-to-Sister series, Stuck in the Middle combines budding romance, spiritual searching, and a healthy dose of sibling rivalry.

Virginia Smith is a freelance writer, a speaker, and the contemporary worship leader for Voice of Joy Ministries in central Kentucky. She is the author of Just As I Am and her articles have appeared in a variety of Christian magazines. She is a member of the Christian Writers Fellowship International and the American Christian Fiction Writers and splits her time between Kentucky and Utah.

As High as the Heavens by Kathleen Morgan

Description: It is 1568 and Mary, Queen of Scots, is imprisoned in Lochleven Castle. But her supporters, including noblewoman Heather Gordon, are planning a rescue. Heather travels to a cottage in the frigid Highlands to teach a simple man--who just happens to resemble someone with access to Lochleven--how to act the part of a nobleman in order to gain entry to the castle. But in the close quarters of the cottage there is more stirring than political rebellion. A suspenseful story of deceit and betrayal, love and secrets, As High as the Heavens will capture readers' hearts.

Kathleen Morgan is the author of the bestselling Brides of Culdee Creek series as well as Child of the Mist, Wings of Morning, and A Fire Within, all part of her newest series, These Highland Hills.


I am looking forward to reading each of these books, two are authors I love to read and two will be new ones to me :) I'll let you know what I think in the new year.

Interview with Donna Fleisher & Giveaways!

Donna Fleisher has become a dear friend to me and has the auspicious honour of being the first person to explain to me (from her website) what "blog" actually meant - LOL!!!! Didn't know that D, did you?!

Hosting Donna here is a total delight and I know you will enjoy reading about this special lady. Not only has she given of her time for this interview but if you keep reading you will find a fantastic giveaway that ALL my readers can enter!

Without further ado, here's Donna....

ON WRITING...

Please share some of your writing/publishing journey with us.

My journey has definitely been one of ups and downs, starts and stops. Eleven years ago I first put pen to paper (literally, I didn't have a computer), seven years ago I put it all away, four years ago it all came back, and now it's all done. But truthfully, I wouldn't trade one moment of these last eleven years for anything. I firmly believe God cares more about the journey we walk with Him than the destination. And besides. Any destination short of where He wants us to be is a lousy destination.

You have said that Standing Strong is your last novel at this point. Any chance Donna the Author will reappear?

Well, I'll tell you what. If she does, I certainly will not chase her away. If a new story and a new set of characters ever show up on my doorstep like the last story and the last set of characters did, I'll give it a go. Until then, I'll be content with staying active in the industry from the other side of the pen, so to speak, as a freelance editor.

You provide editorial services - how does that differ to writing your own novel?

Honestly, it's not near as much fun as creating something new and seeing your own imaginary friends come to life in your mind's eye. The time spent writing and editing my own novels has been some of the most exciting and enjoyable years of my life. But one can only continue to be a novelist if fresh story ideas continue to flow. For me, that flow dried up and withered away. I have no doubt that God gave me the secondary task of writing novels for a season to prepare me for the primary task He now wants me to do: to provide editorial services to new novelists just starting out in the industry--my brothers and sisters who do have fresh story ideas flowing like crazy. To be able to help them get started on the right path is exactly where I believe God wants me to be. So, on that note, it's almost as much fun as writing my own stuff.

What did a regular writing day look like for you?

When I was caught in the undertow of looming deadlines, my writing days were full. They would usually start around 2 p.m. and not finish until around 2 a.m. Sitting in my recliner, alone in my apartment, I would plunk away at my laptop until my eyes and fingers couldn't take any more. On good days I could crank out about 7000 words. On not so good days I was lucky to write 3 new words. Usually, though, on those days I would edit, so the time wasn't totally wasted. I edit as I go, which is different from the way most writers do it. Just about everything I do is different from the way most other writers do it.

What has been the best experience you have had as an author?

I'm hoping my best experience is still yet to come. Hearing from readers is always amazing, and building awesome friendships (like ours, Rel!) is a blast. Maybe someday, after we've had time to relax in Heaven, I'll be given a glimpse into how this story the Lord has given me to tell has played a part in bringing people closer to Him. That will be the best. In the meantime, I have to say that getting to know Chris McIntyre and Erin Mathis has been the best. True, they are imaginary, but I've learned so much from them and have grown so much since they have entered my life. For this, I will always be grateful.

ON STANDING STRONG...

The basis of your series is the close friendship of two women, Chris and Erin - in a world where romance sells so well, what made you choose a friendship as the crux of the stories?

They say to write about what you know … or, in other words, don't write about what you don't know. If you know me, you know I'm not normal. I'm single, have always been single, and will always be single. I believe with every fiber of my being that my Father God has set me apart to be totally His. One day I hope to be, but until then, that's my journey. So, because of this, what do I know about romance? Most of the romances I've read have left me feeling lonely. It's strange, cuz I don't usually feel that way any other time.

I knew from the moment I started writing that I wanted to explore friendship, and that I wanted to write stories that honored my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. The more I witnessed Erin's concern and pure love for Chris, the more I understood the depth of Jesus's love for me. His love is that of true friendship, clean and pure and real and intensely powerful.

How much of the military action in the books is based on your experience in the Air Force?

Almost none. In the late '80s, there wasn't much going on in the world. My three years of active duty and the two I spent in the Guard were quiet. Sure, we played all the war games, but I never, and I repeat, never, experienced anything like Chris and Erin faced. I did come away from my time of service with that ever-present feeling of belonging, as if I knew (and still do) that I had been a part of something special. But the only details I was able to speak of firsthand in my stories were about the clothes Chris and Erin wore (BDUs - Battle Dress Uniform), one of the places where they went to get hot food (MKT - Mobile Kitchen Trailer), the food that kept them from starving when they didn't have the MKT (MREs - Meals Ready to Eat), and the state of life unique to all military experiences (boredom and terror, hurry up and wait, and illogical military logic).

Kimberley Square seems a pretty unique community. Have you experienced that level of relationship amongst neighbours?

I am totally not a city girl. If I had to live in a city, I probably wouldn't last more than a week. But where I'm living now, in a small beachfront neighborhood in a medium-sized town on the Oregon Coast, I have been fortunate to have developed good relationships with my neighbors. Sometimes it feels as if I'm living in a fishbowl, but other times I know it is good to have so many people around me that I care about, and who care about me. We look out for each other. They all take good care of me. It's a great feeling.

What impact do you hope this book has upon the reader?

Even though the main thread of the entire series is the friendship between Chris and Erin, this last book continues to explore the romantic relationship between Chris and Jason. Some of my favorite lines in the book are when Chris says, “Bit by bit, Jason. If we get married and start a life together, we'll be as one. But unless you walk with me closer and closer to Christ, I'll walk with you farther and farther away from Him. If I marry you, and you don't want to follow Him, you'll pull me away from Him. If that happens, bit by bit … I'll die.”

A friend of mine told me about this quote by Maya Angelou: “A woman's heart should be so hidden in Christ that a man should have to seek Him first to find her.”

The beauty is when we are so hidden in Christ, He still gives us friends to love--friends that He can love through us. On the last page of the book, Chris realizes this because of how His loved flowed through Erin to reach her. She wraps up this realization by repeating one line she heard spoken to her eight months before. I hope readers will be able to make the connection to enjoy the full impact of Chris's words. I really hope readers will come away from reading the entire series more in love with their Savior than ever before.

Why was it important for you to portray Chris and Jason's struggle with their relationship, due to their difficult pasts?

Part of that was because I did not want to write a romance. Chris's story was never about finding physical love and contentment with a man. That would come later, yes, but in the first few months of her new life as a believer in Christ, she and I both knew her story was about her journey to finding true love and contentment in Jesus Christ. Once that relationship was strong and secure, then she could move forward in a relationship with Jason.

Of course, Jason doesn't care for this, but he did at one time love the Lord Jesus as his Savior, so deep down, he understands. This forces him to face his own ugly past, and to choose for himself if he will once again trust in Jesus.

If this series was made into a movie, who would you cast?

I had a sneaky feeling you would ask me this question, so I've been thinking about it for quite awhile. However, the sad thing is that I watch very little TV and I go to probably one movie a decade, so my list of actors and actresses to choose from is limited at best. So I'll just politely refuse to answer this question, thank you. Or … does anyone have any ideas? I'm open to suggestions. Oh, and Chris wants me to tell you that she looks nothing like the beautiful girl on the covers of the books. That girl actually looks more like Erin. Though, at this point, neither of us are complaining about it.

ON MATTERS PERSONAL...

Do you read Christian fiction yourself? If so, some favourite authors or books both Christian and/or secular?

This too, is sad. Except for my clients' manuscripts, I read very little. It's almost embarrassing to say this. How in the world can I write and edit novels when I don't read them? This makes Camy Tang crazy. I hate to make her crazy, but what can I say? Well, I did read her debut, Sushi for One?, and I enjoyed it very much. I know I'm missing out on some good stories, so I'll try to do better.

What are you reading at the moment?

Right now I'm just getting started with a manuscript about a young woman who is a master piano player. Her fiancé has just been killed, and one of her students is an autistic musical savant. Should be an interesting read.

Favourite movie and favourite line from a movie?

By now, can't you see how culturally inept I am? I hate TV, don't even own one, and see maybe one, maybe two movies a decade. But, okay, if you must know, I love Fried Green Tomatoes (the movie, not the book). “How many of those hormones you takin', honey?” And Ed: “I just can't figure out how in the (heck) you can hit someone by accident … six times.” I've also seen Ghost at least eighteen times. “Have a nice life, have a nice death, good-bye.” And Always. “Girl clothes. You bought me girl clothes.” Hah! Guess I do have some favorites.

Who inspires you?

My spiritual teachers are Gayle Erwin and Oswald Chambers. My examples in this industry are Francine Rivers and Angela Hunt. The music that most centers me on Christ is usually written and sung by Margaret Becker. The place where I live, the central Oregon Coast, inspires me. People who truly allow Jesus Christ to live through them, and it's usually obvious when they do, inspire me.

You have a fabulous blog where you share not just your writing journey but also your love for Jesus - how did you get into that?

Blogging has been a lot of fun. Lately, though, I've toyed with the idea of shutting it down and calling it good. But can I? Am I addicted? It's not like eight million people stampede over to hear what I've got to say, but having that outlet to share ideas and hopefully just plain fun stuff with whoever shows up has been fun. So much of life is about things that really don't matter one wit in the larger scheme of things. No matter what, I want to continue to talk about things that really matter. Talking about Christ and encouraging others to be more fully His--that matters. That's what I hope to continue to share on my wee blog.

You are passionate about sport! What did you play during high school?

It would probably be easier to tell you what I didn't play. Chess. Synchronized swimming. And golf. Never played golf. My favorite sports were basketball and softball, but throwing the javelin was a blast. After high school I coached several sports, including several motley crews of javelin throwers. That I'm still alive to tell the tale after several close calls is a miracle. Now that I'm old and gray, I have developed highly lethal allergies to anything even remotely resembling exercise. So, to keep from dying, I avoid it at all cost. So far so good.

Tell us something about you we don't know.

Okay, if you must know … when I was coaching, I was once almost gored--square in the chest--by a javelin. If the young man who threw it had thrown his usual distance, I would have been a human shish kebab.

Please share some of your faith journey...

My faith journey began with my mom's spiritual quest. She took us from church to church in search of the truth, and when we found it, she made sure we all accepted it. At the time, I was seven, so I didn't mind. Jesus was real, He loved me, and I knew it, even at seven. I asked Him to be my Savior, and He said, “I would love that.” He came into my heart and has never left. I wish I could say that I have always been faithful to Him, but I can't. Even still, the journey is about constantly following, constantly seeking Him. After everything I've experienced, it is still this journey that matters most to me. I know where it will lead me, and there is nowhere else I would rather be.

Some essential Aussie questions...

When/if you make the trip Down Under what do you want to see first? A platypus or a koala?

Hopefully when I make the trip, and ooooo, a koala. Are they really as cute and cuddly as they seem?

Barrier Reef or Uluru (Ayers Rock)?

Whichever is nearest the koala.

You have tasted vegemite - describe it in one word (be nice, now!)

Aiyazawowza! How's that? Okay, next time I will definitely spread it on thinly.

Any last words...

Just one. Thankyouthankyouthankyou. I love your blog, Rel, and I love TitleTrakk! It has been so cool to see the exponential growth of Christian fiction in the last few years. For all you do to help it grow ….. thank you!!

And … for all of you reading this be sure to leave a comment to enter the contest to win one of three complete sets of the Homeland Heroes Series that we'll be giving away. A complete set would make a great gift! Here are the details:~

From now until 14th December, leave a comment here for Rel and let her know what books you would like to win. Do you already have Wounded Healer and Warrior's Heart? Then ask for Valiant Hope and Standing Strong to complete your set. Don't have any? Request the entire series if you think it sounds like something you'd love to read. Do you know a servicemember or veteran who may be interested? Request a book or books for them. You have until midnight December 14th, 2007, when Rel will randomly draw three winners from her list of names. If your name is drawn, whatever you asked for, that you will win! This contest is open to all Rel's readers whether in Australia or elsewhere :)