This is not a Christian book. Pub date is October, 2013.
Although I am allergic to foul language, I was very intrigued by this
book because I grew up in Louisiana and currently live just a few miles
from New Orleans. Many things mentioned in the novel, I recognized and
it was neat. But, there is more than necessary foul words. You have to excuse Rice; he lives in L.A. where foul language is a common occurrence apparently since movies seem to be filled with it as well.
The story line is intriguing. Something in an Artesian spring that feed a swimming pool attaches itself and makes people do strange and violent things.
However, when the character Shire describes Katrina
he gets it ALL wrong. The hurricane did not last for days and days.
There was no flooding in New Orleans from the hurricane. The flooding
came from a burst levy and it did not flood all the way to Midtown
(which Rice got right earlier in the novel).
I couldn't get past
this gaffe. I tried reading more, even pages and pages more, but the
gaffe kept me from concentrating. The main problem was when the reader
is in Shire's head and Shire "recites the cold, clinical details of this
cataclysm" (Katrina), he gets the "details" wrong. It's a show stopper,
a story flow dam.
The character Marshall is very well developed,
Ben is greatly loveable. The problem is that Rice tries to get inside
the head of a young teenage girl and miserably fails. He tries to get
inside the head of a black woman journalist and miserably fails because
her thoughts seem trite and formulaic, rather like something he thinks would be in the mind of a black woman journalist. It doesn't ring authentic.
Rice
has not mastered the art of head-jumping, although the transitions from
one part of the story to another part are mostly smooth but not in
every instance. One genuis example is when the story transitions from
Marshall's vault through the window, and then Ben is looking out his
window. That is such a smooth, effortless transition for a reader.
Another one is when we jump from the black nurse Arthella to Shire the
private detective. But there are numerous others that don't work well.
If you are not allergic to foul language and a graphic, almost-rape scene, along with some incredibly graphic descriptions of animal heads exploding do not bother you, then you'll probably read long into the night.
I give this 2 stars out of 5 stars. The reason is the foul language and graphic content. The story does not seem to have much value beyond those two things. Although, it is compelling, and character development is quite good for the most part.
I received this book from NetGalley to review for the publisher Simon & Schuster.
Monday
Dangerous: Engaging the People and Places No One Else Will by Caleb Bislow
I have never been so moved reading a nonfiction as I was devouring this book. I read it in one sitting... I couldn't put it down. My heart, my mind, and my soul have been stirred beyond imagining.
This should be a "must study" for every youth group, and every church group.
Yes, it is graphic in places, but God's work is not always G-rated. The hurting, the downtrodden, the lost are not found in clinically clean places, sitting around waiting for some good Christian to come along and share the Gospel. Jesus ate with the prostitutes, the demon-possessed, and the tax collectors. We should do no less. Funny how Christians think setting on pews, and hatching out nothing is doing God's will. Where is the fruit???
Caleb Bislow listened to God's voice, and obeyed the summons, "As you go make disciples." He followed Paul's example by discipling a few then challenging them to "Go make disciples." Only Caleb did it with some dangerous people in despicable places.
Any problems in your church?
Complacent church members -- tell them some of these stories.
Shy youth -- challenge them with some of these Bible verses and the illustrative true stories.
Dare devil young men -- let them read of some Dark, Dangerous, and Despised Places... Places that burdened the heart of Caleb Bislow.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Bislow’s debut book, Dangerous (Bethany House, September 2013), written with Ted Kluck, is part inspirational memoir, part devotional, and part field guide for the aspiring evangelist. Since that first trip to Africa, Bislow has founded a missionary organization called Unusual Soldiers that trains American Christians, and increasingly foreign nationals, to minister at home or abroad and almost always under adverse circumstances. Bislow’s vision for the organization is to take humanitarian concern and Christian teaching to places with no Christian contact.
Bislow writes that his first experience in Africa, which led to a church being planted there, “wrecked” him, and set him on a course to raise $50,000 in order to conduct more work among the Maasai. “As we hiked back up a trail, my mind raced. How many years had this village been waiting to hear the gospel? How many generations had come and gone by without Christ? A sense of brokenness came over me. It was as if these people had just been waiting for someone to come and bring them the good news. Just waiting. I found myself angry that no one had ever taken the gospel to these people. That all of the churches and people with Jesus bumper stickers on their cars had forgotten [them] . . . I was even angry with myself . . .”
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Caleb Bislow, a farm boy from Nebraska, went from a restless life as a Christian youth pastor in the Midwest, to quitting his job, emptying his bank account, and traveling deep into Africa—a long flight plus a two-day, bumpy car ride with a translator—to tell the Maasai people about Jesus. Was he a fool or was he courageous? Bislow wondered that very thing as he took his first steps as a missionary with little idea what he was doing. He has since gone on to minister around the world, often to places he calls “despised, dangerous, and dark,” including the Congo, and Guatemala’s Pavon Prison, which is literally run by the inmates.
Bislow has been humbled to advance God’s kingdom on every inhabited continent in the world. He was trained in survival by former British commandos, is the director of Unusual Soldiers training events, and is a sought-after speaker through Kingdom Building Ministries. Caleb and his wife, Jessica, and their three children call Franklin, Nebraska, their home. Learn more at www.unusualsoldiers.com.
Jude by Jeff Nesbit
MY REVIEW
If you frequent this blog, you know there are some things that I absolutely cannot tolerate in the books that I read. One of them is the bandwagon for global warming or other kinds of dire, ecological planet danger. As a Bible-reading, believing Christian I know that the earth has a limited time table and only God is able to destroy this planet in His good timing. Perhaps because Nesbit was director of public affairs for two science agencies, he knows better. Nesbit actually mentions McKibbons, which I found interesting. When an author like McKibbons or those like him write books, I steer clear of their books because they make my blood pressure soar. Thank goodness, Nesbit doesn't stay on this kick more than a couple of chapters. However, there is an underlying reason for this ecological flag waving, which I address in a moment.
The main character is Thomas Asher (the book is written in first person, and praise God stays in first person point of view) who has a twin brother that basically becomes the financial ruler of the world with the help of powers and principalities that Thomas calls regents. This is a good premise because right from the start the reader meets these principalities and what they can do. It is not graphic violence, just the suggestion, and that can be more terrifying than the actual depiction of it.
The characters are developed very well, the reader gets an excellent sense of the inner core of each brother. But, I often wondered why Jude even cared what Thomas thought, and why Thomas was drawn inextricably to Jude when their core values seemed to be polar opposites. However, they are twins. Too many clinical studies have provided empirical evidence that twins have some kind of connection that regular siblings do not have. However, to explain why Thomas is not completely repulsed by Jude's dependence on the regents' prevailing succor, Thomas admits to being agnostic with no penchant for Christian things. This makes his unemotional narrative of the happenings surrounding Jude's rise to power even more chilling. The reader is drawn into this fascinating tale with a bit of trepidation as if this very personal look into their lives is similar to voyeurism.
You don't want to look but you can't look away. It is the same feeling the reader gets from Thomas. He tries to separate himself from his brother, but he can't. It is a very interesting, psychological thriller. Thomas sets aside the ecological flag waving for more crucial and life-threatening things to study and write about, and that puts everything into a more godly perspective.
This is the first book by Jeff Nesbit that I've read. I believe I will read more from this author. I give it 4 of 5 stars. The reason is because the flashbacks which happen every other chapter do not transition well. Jumping back and forth in time is too jarring. It would be so much better if present day happenings would lead into the happening depicted in the flashback. Better still, in my opinion, if all the flashbacks were told together leading up to the present day.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Jude Asher first called on outside forces to change his destiny as a
child. Now a wealthy entrepreneur with his star soaring, he's prepared
to make his most daring bet ever to reach the pinnacle of earthly power.
Jude's twin brother, Thomas, has chosen a different path as a reporter
for The New York Times. As much as he's tried to cut himself off
from his brother's trajectory, he finds himself drawn back in ... and
troubled by the secret that only he knows.
Surrounded by principalities and powers, each brother must choose their own path—for good or for evil.
Publish date: September 20, 2013
I received this eBook from NetGalley specifically for review.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jeff Nesbit has written 19 inspirational novels for various publishers. He and a colleague opened a publishing house in 2006 to encourage new authors and bring back into print books from established authors.
Nesbit was the White House communications director for Vice President Dan Quayle, director of public affairs for two federal science agencies, and a national journalist with Knight-Ridder and others. He now writes a weekly science column for U.S. News and World Report (www.usnews.com/news/blogs/at-the-edge) and is executive director of Climate Nexus.
If you frequent this blog, you know there are some things that I absolutely cannot tolerate in the books that I read. One of them is the bandwagon for global warming or other kinds of dire, ecological planet danger. As a Bible-reading, believing Christian I know that the earth has a limited time table and only God is able to destroy this planet in His good timing. Perhaps because Nesbit was director of public affairs for two science agencies, he knows better. Nesbit actually mentions McKibbons, which I found interesting. When an author like McKibbons or those like him write books, I steer clear of their books because they make my blood pressure soar. Thank goodness, Nesbit doesn't stay on this kick more than a couple of chapters. However, there is an underlying reason for this ecological flag waving, which I address in a moment.
The main character is Thomas Asher (the book is written in first person, and praise God stays in first person point of view) who has a twin brother that basically becomes the financial ruler of the world with the help of powers and principalities that Thomas calls regents. This is a good premise because right from the start the reader meets these principalities and what they can do. It is not graphic violence, just the suggestion, and that can be more terrifying than the actual depiction of it.
The characters are developed very well, the reader gets an excellent sense of the inner core of each brother. But, I often wondered why Jude even cared what Thomas thought, and why Thomas was drawn inextricably to Jude when their core values seemed to be polar opposites. However, they are twins. Too many clinical studies have provided empirical evidence that twins have some kind of connection that regular siblings do not have. However, to explain why Thomas is not completely repulsed by Jude's dependence on the regents' prevailing succor, Thomas admits to being agnostic with no penchant for Christian things. This makes his unemotional narrative of the happenings surrounding Jude's rise to power even more chilling. The reader is drawn into this fascinating tale with a bit of trepidation as if this very personal look into their lives is similar to voyeurism.
You don't want to look but you can't look away. It is the same feeling the reader gets from Thomas. He tries to separate himself from his brother, but he can't. It is a very interesting, psychological thriller. Thomas sets aside the ecological flag waving for more crucial and life-threatening things to study and write about, and that puts everything into a more godly perspective.
This is the first book by Jeff Nesbit that I've read. I believe I will read more from this author. I give it 4 of 5 stars. The reason is because the flashbacks which happen every other chapter do not transition well. Jumping back and forth in time is too jarring. It would be so much better if present day happenings would lead into the happening depicted in the flashback. Better still, in my opinion, if all the flashbacks were told together leading up to the present day.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Surrounded by principalities and powers, each brother must choose their own path—for good or for evil.
Publish date: September 20, 2013
I received this eBook from NetGalley specifically for review.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Nesbit was the White House communications director for Vice President Dan Quayle, director of public affairs for two federal science agencies, and a national journalist with Knight-Ridder and others. He now writes a weekly science column for U.S. News and World Report (www.usnews.com/news/blogs/at-the-edge) and is executive director of Climate Nexus.
Thursday
Poison Town by Creston Mapes
This roller coaster ride is a must read. Mapes has perfected the head-jumping to a finely tuned craft.
Sheer genius. In this book, he's also perfected the way the story lines are interwoven and how they come together. Far, far better than anything he has written before. Be prepared to read far into the night. Be prepared to consume this book like a tall glass of chocolate milk: You just can't drink it slow.
There is only one draw back... You have to wait until February, 2014 to get your hands on one. Be watching for it. Pre-order yours. I promise you will not be disappointed.
Another 5 of 5 stars for Creston Mapes!
ABOUT THE BOOK
There’s More Than One Kind of Poison in This Town People are sick and dying. Rumors are swirling. Some claim chemicals leaking from a manufacturing plant are causing the cancer that’s crippling people on the poor side of Trenton City, Ohio. Yet nothing at the plant appears amiss. The problem remains a mystery until reporter Jack Crittendon’s long-time mechanic falls ill and he investigates. Soon Jack becomes engulfed in a smokescreen of lies, setups, greed, and scandal. The deeper he digs, the more toxic the corruption he uncovers. As he faces off with the big-time players behind the scenes and tries to beat the clock before more people die, he realizes the chillingly unthinkable—he knows too much.
Friday
One Thousand Gifts: A dare to live fully right where you are by Ann Voskamp
MY REVIEW
I have no idea where this book came from, or who asked me to review it.
It was released last year, and I usually receive books that are soon to hit the book shelves.
I am forever grateful, though, to whomever sent me this book.
Voskamp highlights a little known Greek word that is packed with superior Christian meaning: eucharisteo (with grace, thanksgiving, joy). She has opened my eyes to the beauty of deliberate choosing how one reacts to any kind of situation... deliberately choosing grace.
I have written a lot about forgiveness, but this surpasses that small, tightly focused study to encompass an entire life and every second in that life. It is a lifestyle beyond worship of the holy God, but experiencing how deeply God loves us, then sloshing that love all over our loved ones and even strangers. When that deliberate decision is made, then the pain of having to decide to forgive and work through all that junk is no longer necessary.
Excellent, stupendous book. Buy it, now! It is so very worthy!
I give it 5 stars of 5 stars.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Drawing heartbreaking beauty out of the simplest of details, Ann Voskamp invites you into her grace-bathed life of farming, parenting, and writing---and deeper still into your own life. Here you will discover a way of seeing that opens your eyes to ordinary amazing grace, a way of living that is fully alive, and a way of becoming present to God that brings you deep and lasting joy.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Ann Voskamp is a farmer's wife, the home-educating mama to a half-dozen
exuberant kids, and author of One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully
Right Where You Are, a New York Times 60 week bestseller. Named by
Christianity Today as one of 50 women most shaping culture and the
church today, she's a writer for DaySpring, a speaker with Women of
Faith, and partners with Compassion International as a global advocate
for needy children.Featured on the TODAY Show, in WORLD Magazine, and
Focus on the Family magazine, Ann loses library books, usually has a
sink full of soaking pots, and sees empty laundry baskets rarer than a
blue moon. There are gifts everywhere and the sky and the fresh mercy
over the farm is large and all is grace. Her blog is a global well for
the weary and soul-thirsty seeking the quiet grace of the Giver:
www.aholyexperience.com. More at http://onethousandgifts.com/
I have no idea where this book came from, or who asked me to review it.
I am forever grateful, though, to whomever sent me this book.
Voskamp highlights a little known Greek word that is packed with superior Christian meaning: eucharisteo (with grace, thanksgiving, joy). She has opened my eyes to the beauty of deliberate choosing how one reacts to any kind of situation... deliberately choosing grace.
I have written a lot about forgiveness, but this surpasses that small, tightly focused study to encompass an entire life and every second in that life. It is a lifestyle beyond worship of the holy God, but experiencing how deeply God loves us, then sloshing that love all over our loved ones and even strangers. When that deliberate decision is made, then the pain of having to decide to forgive and work through all that junk is no longer necessary.
Excellent, stupendous book. Buy it, now! It is so very worthy!
I give it 5 stars of 5 stars.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Drawing heartbreaking beauty out of the simplest of details, Ann Voskamp invites you into her grace-bathed life of farming, parenting, and writing---and deeper still into your own life. Here you will discover a way of seeing that opens your eyes to ordinary amazing grace, a way of living that is fully alive, and a way of becoming present to God that brings you deep and lasting joy.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Thursday
Rules of Murder by Julianna Deering
I thought this would be a most interesting book because it was touted as Downtown Abbey meets Agatha Christie. Not at all. This is a very transparent mystery, and that means it is no mystery at all. To be fair, I have been reading Agatha Christie eBooks, Greatest British Mysteries, and 100 All Time Great American Mysteries. I've been entrenched with mysteries since January.
Deering is a pseudonym for an author who has multiple books published, this is her mysteries name. She notes in the back that Knox was well known for writing a 10 commandments for mystery writing and then she says she broke or bent them all. Well, it shows. It is not the best offering from this experienced author. I was disappointed because the premise is so great.
The twists are not that twisted, and there are no surprises. I give this book 1 star out of 5
JULIANNA DEERING has always been an avid reader and a lover of storytelling, whether on the page, the screen or the stage. This, along with her keen interest in history and her Christian faith, shows in her tales of love, forgiveness and triumph over adversity. A fifth-generation Texan, she makes her home north of Dallas with three spoiled cats and, when not writing, spends her free time quilting, cross stitching and watching NHL hockey. Her new series of Drew Farthering mysteries set in 1930s England debuts with Rules of Murder (Bethany House, 2013) and will be followed by Death by the Book (Bethany House, 2014).
Deering is a pseudonym for an author who has multiple books published, this is her mysteries name. She notes in the back that Knox was well known for writing a 10 commandments for mystery writing and then she says she broke or bent them all. Well, it shows. It is not the best offering from this experienced author. I was disappointed because the premise is so great.
The twists are not that twisted, and there are no surprises. I give this book 1 star out of 5
ABOUT THE BOOK
Downton Abbey Meets Agatha Christie in This Sparkling Mystery
Downton Abbey Meets Agatha Christie in This Sparkling Mystery
Drew Farthering loves a good mystery, although he
generally expects to find it in the pages of a novel, not on the grounds
of his country estate. When a weekend party at Farthering Place is
ruined by murder and the police seem flummoxed, Drew decides to look
into the crime himself. With the help of his best friend, Nick Dennison,
an avid mystery reader, and Madeline Parker, a beautiful and whip-smart
American debutante staying as a guest, the three try to solve the
mystery as a lark, using the methods from their favorite novels.
Soon, financial irregularities at Drew's stepfather's
company come to light and it's clear that all who remain at Farthering
Place could be in danger. Trying hard to remain one step ahead of the
killer--and trying harder to impress Madeline--Drew must decide how far
to take this game.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Rules of Murder, go HERE.
Friday
Angels in Fire by Dann Stadler
My Review
This is an amazing account of a true story. I love stories like this
This account is well written, has all the drama and suspense of some fiction stories. However, there is no doubt that God is the main character here, the Worker of miracles. I recommend this book to anyone who would like see how God works wonders in His children's lives. Of course, this is not something that happens everyday. But, then the story of Job wasn't something that happened everyday.
I give it 4 of 5 stars.
About the book
ONE HORRIFIC CRASH.ONE IMPOSSIBLE RESCUE.
TWO LIVES FOREVER CHANGED.
There was no way Dann and Tracey Stadler could avoid the drunk driver speeding toward them. Moments later, with Tracey trapped in their burning car, a lone figure walked out of the nearby woods and saved her from certain death. Seconds later, he was gone. But the disappearance of this stranger was not the end of God's tangible intervention in their lives.
As the Stadlers struggled through grueling recoveries and heartbreaking setbacks--even years after that fateful crash--the miracles and divine encounters continued. For the first time, the Stadlers share these incredible moments, offering an inspiring testimony to anyone enduring heartache and loss.
If you are facing hard times--if you need assurance that God still ministers through His angels today--let this true story provide the hope and encouragement you need.
Thursday
Trouble in Store by Carol Cox
MY REVIEW will be post here a little later today...
Historical Suspense and Romance in the Wild West
The acclaimed author of more than 25 novels, Carol Cox is a trusted name in historical
romantic suspense. She combines lively romance, suspense, and humor to create compelling
stories set against fascinating historical backgrounds. Cox’s latest novel, Trouble in Store, is a
thrilling new mystery surrounding an 1880s mercantile. When the owners of the mercantile die
unexpectedly, a disputed inheritance turns out to be the least of the troubles in store…
After losing her position as a governess, Melanie Ross turns to her last resort: the Arizona mercantile
she inherited from her cousin. Unfortunately, Caleb Nelson is positive he inherited the mercantile…
and he’s not interested in sharing.
Melanie and Caleb are forced to set aside their differences, however, when someone starts sabotaging
their store. And as they spend more time together, Caleb begins to realize that Melanie could be the
perfect partner for him, and not just in the mercantile. But will their business—and their budding
romance—survive the trouble ahead?
“For a fast-paced story full of fun, action, mystery, and love, I highly
recommend you treat yourself to Trouble in Store by Carol Cox. Her delightful
characters and historical accuracy provide a delightful read!”
—Judith Miller, bestselling author of the Home to Amana series
“Cox has fleshed out a fascinating cast of characters that move readers through
a novel that dispenses romance and wit in the intriguing context of a Wild West
mystery. A most delightful and engaging read.”
—Publishers Weekly on Love in Disguise
Available at your local bookstore, bethanyhouse.com or by calling 1-800-877-2665.
A DIVISION OF BAKER PUBLISHING GROUP
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Carol Cox has an abiding love for history, mystery, and romance. The author of more than
25 books, she believes in the power of story to convey spiritual truths. A pastor’s wife and
homeschooling mom, she makes her home with her husband and daughter in a remote
spot in northern Arizona, where the deer and the antelope really do play—within view of
the family’s front porch. Learn more at authorcarolcox.com.
Historical Suspense and Romance in the Wild West
The acclaimed author of more than 25 novels, Carol Cox is a trusted name in historical
romantic suspense. She combines lively romance, suspense, and humor to create compelling
stories set against fascinating historical backgrounds. Cox’s latest novel, Trouble in Store, is a
thrilling new mystery surrounding an 1880s mercantile. When the owners of the mercantile die
unexpectedly, a disputed inheritance turns out to be the least of the troubles in store…
After losing her position as a governess, Melanie Ross turns to her last resort: the Arizona mercantile
she inherited from her cousin. Unfortunately, Caleb Nelson is positive he inherited the mercantile…
and he’s not interested in sharing.
Melanie and Caleb are forced to set aside their differences, however, when someone starts sabotaging
their store. And as they spend more time together, Caleb begins to realize that Melanie could be the
perfect partner for him, and not just in the mercantile. But will their business—and their budding
romance—survive the trouble ahead?
“For a fast-paced story full of fun, action, mystery, and love, I highly
recommend you treat yourself to Trouble in Store by Carol Cox. Her delightful
characters and historical accuracy provide a delightful read!”
—Judith Miller, bestselling author of the Home to Amana series
“Cox has fleshed out a fascinating cast of characters that move readers through
a novel that dispenses romance and wit in the intriguing context of a Wild West
mystery. A most delightful and engaging read.”
—Publishers Weekly on Love in Disguise
Available at your local bookstore, bethanyhouse.com or by calling 1-800-877-2665.
A DIVISION OF BAKER PUBLISHING GROUP
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Carol Cox has an abiding love for history, mystery, and romance. The author of more than
25 books, she believes in the power of story to convey spiritual truths. A pastor’s wife and
homeschooling mom, she makes her home with her husband and daughter in a remote
spot in northern Arizona, where the deer and the antelope really do play—within view of
the family’s front porch. Learn more at authorcarolcox.com.
Monday
Pieces of the Heart by Bonnie Calhoun
MY REVIEW
This is the second book from Calhoun, and I think it indicates her diversity as an author.
I deeply enjoyed learning more about the racism during WWII which I had studied several years ago. I also enjoyed the story as it progressed through Cordelia's life from little girl to young woman, and the story line details were no surprise or different from my studies.
As the reader is drawn into Cordelia's life, the sense of God's hand, the prayers and faith, and the pine cone quilt are fascinating facets of how older women mentor younger women, and how wisdom is conveyed and learned. Practical application of wisdom learned is another facet that Calhoun stitches into the storyline. Character development is fairly good. It doesn't take long to care what happens to Cordelia and Bernard, such as when Bernard is off to war and Cordelia has to deal with the church removing her from the house that she had grown up in because her pastor father and mother had passed away. It is touching how Cordelia deals with the loss... no more spoilers :)
I did find difficulty in correlating the back copy blurbs with what the story is actually about, which is the growing up years of Cordelia and Bernard, her knight in shining armor who saved her from bullies and kept her heart safe. Then the couple are separated when Bernard goes off to war. His travails are interesting, but it is hard to grapple with the two main characters as a couple when they spend most of the last half of the book apart. When Bernard comes back from the war, their marriage and the subsequent trials from dealing with the PTSD is much more brief than the cover leads you to believe.
4 of 5 stars
This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Pieces of the Heart
Abingdon Press (June 1, 2013)
by
Bonnie S. Calhoun
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Bonnie S. Calhoun is Owner/Director of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance, owner/publisher of Christian Fiction Online Magazine, Northeast Zone Director for American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), the ACFW ‘2011 Mentor of the Year,” President of (CAN) Christian Authors Network, and Appointment Coordinator for both the Colorado Christian Writers Conference (CCWC) and the Greater Philadelphia Christian Writers Conference(GPCWC).
For the last six years she has taught workshops in Facebook, Twitter, Blogging, and creating Social Media promotions at both CCWC, and GPCWC, and in 2011 at the Montrose, Pa Christian Writers Conference. She also taught a Facebook workshop at the 2012 ACFW conference.
Bonnie and her husband live in a log cabin in upstate area of New York with a dog and cat who think she’s wait-staff.
Her sites are: https://www.facebook.com/bonniescalhounsnarkandsuspense
https://www.facebook.com/bscalhoun
ABOUT THE BOOK
Cordelia Grace watched Bernard Howard, the love of her young life, go off to fight for our country in WWII. And she has spent the last three years creating the Pine Cone quilt that will grace their marriage bed when he comes home. Each row of triangles signifies a layer in her life, sets of memories, hopes, dreams, and prayers for her future, enough spoken words to cover them forever. Her image of their “happy-ever-after” grows proportionally as the quilt expands.
But is the man that returns from the war, the same man that she remembered? Are the dark shades of color that she had to use for the outside edges of the beloved quilt prophetic of her life to come? Can love and faith overcome all?
If you would like to read the first chapter of Pieces of the Heart, go HERE.
This is the second book from Calhoun, and I think it indicates her diversity as an author.
I deeply enjoyed learning more about the racism during WWII which I had studied several years ago. I also enjoyed the story as it progressed through Cordelia's life from little girl to young woman, and the story line details were no surprise or different from my studies.
As the reader is drawn into Cordelia's life, the sense of God's hand, the prayers and faith, and the pine cone quilt are fascinating facets of how older women mentor younger women, and how wisdom is conveyed and learned. Practical application of wisdom learned is another facet that Calhoun stitches into the storyline. Character development is fairly good. It doesn't take long to care what happens to Cordelia and Bernard, such as when Bernard is off to war and Cordelia has to deal with the church removing her from the house that she had grown up in because her pastor father and mother had passed away. It is touching how Cordelia deals with the loss... no more spoilers :)
I did find difficulty in correlating the back copy blurbs with what the story is actually about, which is the growing up years of Cordelia and Bernard, her knight in shining armor who saved her from bullies and kept her heart safe. Then the couple are separated when Bernard goes off to war. His travails are interesting, but it is hard to grapple with the two main characters as a couple when they spend most of the last half of the book apart. When Bernard comes back from the war, their marriage and the subsequent trials from dealing with the PTSD is much more brief than the cover leads you to believe.
4 of 5 stars
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
For the last six years she has taught workshops in Facebook, Twitter, Blogging, and creating Social Media promotions at both CCWC, and GPCWC, and in 2011 at the Montrose, Pa Christian Writers Conference. She also taught a Facebook workshop at the 2012 ACFW conference.
Bonnie and her husband live in a log cabin in upstate area of New York with a dog and cat who think she’s wait-staff.
Her sites are: https://www.facebook.com/bonniescalhounsnarkandsuspense
https://www.facebook.com/bscalhoun
ABOUT THE BOOK
But is the man that returns from the war, the same man that she remembered? Are the dark shades of color that she had to use for the outside edges of the beloved quilt prophetic of her life to come? Can love and faith overcome all?
If you would like to read the first chapter of Pieces of the Heart, go HERE.
Fear Has a Name by Creston Mapes
MY REVIEW
I have loved Creston Mapes' books since his very first one. He has such a marvelous talent for expressing what should be obvious in tender and poignant ways. I think God is using Mapes' work to point out all the deficiencies in Christians, but doing it in a godly, tender way. I am continuously amazed at his insight into Christian motives, and Christian responses to those who need Jesus in the most desperate way. This novel exceeded my expectations, and anticipations.
Who has not known that person in junior high school or in high school that was the "outsider", that person just weird enough to not fit into any group? How often have we all seen that person bullied or treated badly and didn't raise a finger to help or protect? I can distinctly recall a time when I only offered a feeble protest, hardly audible and it did no good.
In his latest novel, Mapes asks the question, "What happens when that misfit person grows up and never finds love, never finds a place to fit, never has friends to count on?" Then he opens the door for the reader to a most believable and intense life.
I really do not like head-jumping in a novel. We all know the bad guy is really bad, so why do I need to read what the bad guy is thinking? I know there are much better ways for authors to create tension so tight it is frayed at the edges; you do not need to head-jump to create that environment of fear for the reader. Mapes does a lot of head-jumping in this novel, but he has crafted it so ingenuously that I never realized I'd passed through several head-jumps. Genius! Another thing I do not like are numerous story lines and the constant jumping between story lines. Mapes has crafted the multiple story lines in such a way that they compliment each other, adding insight to each other. I had never realized this type of story telling could be done in a way that I would literally love it. He did it.
I believe Mapes should find a place on your bookshelves right alongside all your classics like Dickens, and Dumas, and Kipling. He holds his own in that company.
This ranks a 5 of 5 stars novel.
This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Fear Has a Name
David C. Cook (June 1, 2013)
by
Creston Mapes
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Creston has fond memories of his boyhood in Bath, Ohio, where he became enchanted with his future wife, way back in the fourth grade. His father, Bernie, owned and operated The Weathervane Furniture Shop in town. The whole family lived right upstairs in the century-old house known as "The Shop."
Creston studied journalism at Bowling Green State University, then began his writing career. During the past 30 years, he has worked as a reporter, corporate copywriter, creative director, freelance writer, and author.
ABOUT THE BOOK
From popular suspense author Creston Mapes comes another faith-building thriller, a tale that follows journalist Jack Crittendon as he fights to protect his family from a stalker's terrifying schemes, investigates a pastor's mysterious disappearance, and struggles to keep his faith amidst unthinkable fear.
With his family's safety on the line, Crittendon realizes there are secrets behind "Christian" walls--secrets with painful, deadly implications. He must find the faith to trust a God who allows inconceivable trials, and the courage to guard his family, with danger exploding at every turn.
Through it all--the sharp, character-driven writing for which Mapes is known--takes fans and new readers on an edge-of-your-seat journey that explores the harsh, far-reaching consequences of bullying and the Christian response to fear.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Fear Has a Name, go HERE.
I have loved Creston Mapes' books since his very first one. He has such a marvelous talent for expressing what should be obvious in tender and poignant ways. I think God is using Mapes' work to point out all the deficiencies in Christians, but doing it in a godly, tender way. I am continuously amazed at his insight into Christian motives, and Christian responses to those who need Jesus in the most desperate way. This novel exceeded my expectations, and anticipations.
Who has not known that person in junior high school or in high school that was the "outsider", that person just weird enough to not fit into any group? How often have we all seen that person bullied or treated badly and didn't raise a finger to help or protect? I can distinctly recall a time when I only offered a feeble protest, hardly audible and it did no good.
In his latest novel, Mapes asks the question, "What happens when that misfit person grows up and never finds love, never finds a place to fit, never has friends to count on?" Then he opens the door for the reader to a most believable and intense life.
I really do not like head-jumping in a novel. We all know the bad guy is really bad, so why do I need to read what the bad guy is thinking? I know there are much better ways for authors to create tension so tight it is frayed at the edges; you do not need to head-jump to create that environment of fear for the reader. Mapes does a lot of head-jumping in this novel, but he has crafted it so ingenuously that I never realized I'd passed through several head-jumps. Genius! Another thing I do not like are numerous story lines and the constant jumping between story lines. Mapes has crafted the multiple story lines in such a way that they compliment each other, adding insight to each other. I had never realized this type of story telling could be done in a way that I would literally love it. He did it.
I believe Mapes should find a place on your bookshelves right alongside all your classics like Dickens, and Dumas, and Kipling. He holds his own in that company.
This ranks a 5 of 5 stars novel.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Creston has fond memories of his boyhood in Bath, Ohio, where he became enchanted with his future wife, way back in the fourth grade. His father, Bernie, owned and operated The Weathervane Furniture Shop in town. The whole family lived right upstairs in the century-old house known as "The Shop."
Creston studied journalism at Bowling Green State University, then began his writing career. During the past 30 years, he has worked as a reporter, corporate copywriter, creative director, freelance writer, and author.
ABOUT THE BOOK
From popular suspense author Creston Mapes comes another faith-building thriller, a tale that follows journalist Jack Crittendon as he fights to protect his family from a stalker's terrifying schemes, investigates a pastor's mysterious disappearance, and struggles to keep his faith amidst unthinkable fear.
With his family's safety on the line, Crittendon realizes there are secrets behind "Christian" walls--secrets with painful, deadly implications. He must find the faith to trust a God who allows inconceivable trials, and the courage to guard his family, with danger exploding at every turn.
Through it all--the sharp, character-driven writing for which Mapes is known--takes fans and new readers on an edge-of-your-seat journey that explores the harsh, far-reaching consequences of bullying and the Christian response to fear.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Fear Has a Name, go HERE.
Wednesday
The Judgment Stone by Robert Liparulo
MY REVIEW
Here is another winner from Liparulo. I have so much enjoyed the last two books from him. The wild imagination of Liparulo is unmatched in today's Christian fiction. The Judgment Stone is one of Liparulo's best efforts. I love every one of his novels. All are exciting and riveting. However, I really love these last two that are more in tune with faith in action.
The storyline is developed very well with a little more background for the characters. I do not like jumping among three story lines: Owen/Jagger; The Tribe; and The Clan. Although, Liparulo does an excellent job with the transitions. It does keep the pages turning. However, head jumping is an easy tool to use to keep the plot churning. I believe Liparulo is a better writer than that, and can keep the action with a minimum of viewpoints.
You should read the first in this series because The Judgment Stone starts almost where The 13th Tribe closes (click the link and you can read my review of that book.)
The Judgment Stone has a fascinating premise with an object being an open door to see into the spiritual world. I like how Liparulo describes the spiritual warfare, and how angels foil demons interference with humans. I love the way he describes angels ministering and succoring humans, with the spiritual direct connect with God. It is fascinating reading.
Bob, great job! I want more!
This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
The Judgment Stone
Thomas Nelson (May 14, 2013)
by
Robert Liparulo
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Former journalist Robert Liparulo is the best-selling author of the thrillers Comes a Horseman, Germ, Deadfall, Deadlock, and The 13th Tribe, as well as The Dreamhouse Kings, an action-adventure series for young adults. He contributed a short story to James Patterson’s Thriller, and an essay about Thomas Perry’s The Butcher’s Boy to Thrillers: 100 Must Reads, edited by David Morrell and Hank Wagner. He is currently working on the sequel to The 13th Tribe, as well writing an original screenplay with director Andrew Davis (The Fugitive).
When not writing, Liparulo loves to read, watch (and analyze) movies, scuba dive, swim, hike, and travel. He lives in Monument, Colorado, with his wife Jodi and four children: Melanie, Matthew, Anthony, and Isabella.
ABOUT THE BOOK
What if praying became a curse instead of a blessing?
Former Army Ranger Jagger Baird thought he had his hands full with the Tribe—the band of immortal vigilantes fighting to regain God’s grace by killing those opposed to Him. But that was before he encountered the ruthless group of immortals called the Clan. The Clan is after a prize that would give them unimaginable power—a piece of the Ten Commandments known as the Judgment Stone.
Those who touch the Stone can see into the spiritual world: angelic warriors, treacherous demons, and the blue threads of light that signal the presence of believers in communion with God.
By following the blue beam radiating from those closest to God, the Clan plans to locate His most passionate followers and destroy them.
Jagger quickly realizes his high-tech gadgetry and training are no match for these merciless immortals. But how can he defeat an enemy who hunts believers through their prayers . . . and won’t stop until they’ve annihilated all those close to Him?
In this high-action thriller, best-selling author Robert Liparulo examines the raging battle between good and evil on earth . . . and beyond.
If you would like to read the first chapter of The Judgment Stone, go HERE.
Here is another winner from Liparulo. I have so much enjoyed the last two books from him. The wild imagination of Liparulo is unmatched in today's Christian fiction. The Judgment Stone is one of Liparulo's best efforts. I love every one of his novels. All are exciting and riveting. However, I really love these last two that are more in tune with faith in action.
The storyline is developed very well with a little more background for the characters. I do not like jumping among three story lines: Owen/Jagger; The Tribe; and The Clan. Although, Liparulo does an excellent job with the transitions. It does keep the pages turning. However, head jumping is an easy tool to use to keep the plot churning. I believe Liparulo is a better writer than that, and can keep the action with a minimum of viewpoints.
You should read the first in this series because The Judgment Stone starts almost where The 13th Tribe closes (click the link and you can read my review of that book.)
The Judgment Stone has a fascinating premise with an object being an open door to see into the spiritual world. I like how Liparulo describes the spiritual warfare, and how angels foil demons interference with humans. I love the way he describes angels ministering and succoring humans, with the spiritual direct connect with God. It is fascinating reading.
Bob, great job! I want more!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
When not writing, Liparulo loves to read, watch (and analyze) movies, scuba dive, swim, hike, and travel. He lives in Monument, Colorado, with his wife Jodi and four children: Melanie, Matthew, Anthony, and Isabella.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Former Army Ranger Jagger Baird thought he had his hands full with the Tribe—the band of immortal vigilantes fighting to regain God’s grace by killing those opposed to Him. But that was before he encountered the ruthless group of immortals called the Clan. The Clan is after a prize that would give them unimaginable power—a piece of the Ten Commandments known as the Judgment Stone.
Those who touch the Stone can see into the spiritual world: angelic warriors, treacherous demons, and the blue threads of light that signal the presence of believers in communion with God.
By following the blue beam radiating from those closest to God, the Clan plans to locate His most passionate followers and destroy them.
Jagger quickly realizes his high-tech gadgetry and training are no match for these merciless immortals. But how can he defeat an enemy who hunts believers through their prayers . . . and won’t stop until they’ve annihilated all those close to Him?
In this high-action thriller, best-selling author Robert Liparulo examines the raging battle between good and evil on earth . . . and beyond.
If you would like to read the first chapter of The Judgment Stone, go HERE.
Monday
Craft: Would the Godfather Really Do That? by Randy Ingermanson
3) Craft: Would The Godfather Really Do That?
It's 1953 in Birmingham, Alabama. Sherlock Holmes,
Scarlett O'Hara, the Godfather, and Uncle Tom walk into an exclusive
whites-only restaurant. It's 4 PM and the place is nearly empty.
The maitre d' hurries up, throws a scowl at Uncle Tom,
and says to the Godfather, "I'm sorry, sir, but there are no tables
available at the present time."
The Godfather grins amiably and hangs his head.
"Gosh, I had no idea! Should we come back later when it's less
crowded?"
"Let's just think things through rationally,"
says Scarlett. "I'm sure that
if we slip this gentleman a large enough
bill, he can find us a table. Or maybe we can find some dirt on him and
blackmail him."
Sherlock shakes his head dejectedly. "They don't
seem to like us, so let's leave. It's boring here anyway.
Let's find some place that's more fun!"
"Leave this to me." Uncle Tom puts on a pair of
brass knuckles and slugs the maitre d' in the jaw, knocking him out.
"These people are going to serve us or else."
He leads his friends to the best table and shouts for a
waiter to serve them, pronto.
What's wrong with the picture above?
Yes, the characters are behaving out of character. But
how do you know? You've never read a scene in which any of these characters
were in Birmingham in 1953. Yet you know roughly how each of them would behave
in this situation. The way I wrote it above is completely wrong.
Different people have different "social styles"
-- patterns of social behavior.
The Godfather is a Driver. He makes things happen and
he's not too concerned about just getting along. He'd be the one to pull out
the brass knuckles.
Scarlett O'Hara is an Expressive. She's highly sociable,
and when she's rejected, she feels it keenly.
She enjoys fun and would be the first to suggest they go
elsewhere.
Sherlock Holmes is an Analytical. When he has a problem,
he thinks it through. He might try a bribe or blackmail or anything else he
could think of to solve the problem rationally.
Uncle Tom is an Amiable. He likes to get along with
people, and he always asks permission, so he never needs to ask forgiveness.
Most people fit into one of these four categories --
Driver, Expressive, Analytical, or Amiable.
As a novelist, you probably find it easiest to write
characters who fit your own social style. You might find it harder to identify
with characters with other social styles.
But you have to. You can't write a whole novel in which
all your characters have your social style. That would be implausible, and it
would also be boring.
Why boring?
When you have characters with a variety of social styles,
you have a lot more chances to create conflict.
More conflict means a more interesting story.
A couple of examples are in order ...
If Uncle Tom and the Godfather are working together to
solve a mystery, they're not going to agree on how to do it. The Godfather will
be action-oriented and won't much care about whom he offends. Uncle Tom will be
relational-oriented and he'll care very much about other people's feelings.
If Sherlock and Scarlett are dating, they're going to
face all sorts of obstacles. Sherlock prefers a quiet evening at home with a
pipe and a good conversation, while Scarlet wants to go out somewhere fun and
dance, dance, dance. Sherlock may think he's complimenting Scarlett by telling
her that she's not as scrawny as she was last month, but Scarlett won't love
him for saying she's put on weight.
Most people tend to have a dominant social style and a
secondary one. I'm an Analytical Amiable. I'll probably beat you at chess, but
at the end of the game, you'll be my friend.
There are 16 combinations of dominant and secondary
social styles. And of course there are more aspects to a character's
personality than their social styles.
This means that you'll never run out of quirky
combinations of character traits. Every character you ever create can be an
original.
Yet by studying typical social styles, you can create
believable characters that ring true.
If you want a successful salesman who can take rejection
in stride and push on to the next customer, make him a Driver Amiable.
If you want an unsuccessful salesman who staggers at each
rejection and finds it hard to ask for the sale, make him an Analytical
Expressive.
If you want a boring, dull, narrow-minded accountant who
obsesses over details, start with an Analytical Analytical and pile on from
there. (We Analyticals are sometimes considered fussy and obsessive by flaky,
unfocused people. Hmphh!)
Let's be clear that you don't stop with your character's
social style. It's a nice place to start, but people are much more complicated
than a category.
But knowing the social style of each of your characters
will give you a running start on understanding them.
There is very much more to say about social styles, so if
you're interested, try Googling the phrase "Driver Analytical Expressive
Amiable" and see what you come up with.
One nice summary I've found online is here:
Sherlock says this resource explains a lot of things that
have always puzzled him about stupid people.
The Godfather says it'll be useful in figuring out how to
manipulate his minions.
Uncle Tom says it'll help him get along better with
people.
Scarlett says it's boring.
This article is reprinted by permission of the author.
Award-winning novelist Randy Ingermanson, "the Snowflake Guy," publishes the free monthly Advanced Fiction Writing E-zine, with more than 32,000 readers. If you want to learn the craft and marketing of fiction, AND make your writing more valuable to editors, AND have FUN doing it, visit http://www.AdvancedFictionWriting.com.
Download your free Special Report on Tiger Marketing and get a free 5-Day Course in How To Publish a
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