About the Book

Book: Psalm Hymns, Volume Five, Psalms 107-150

Author: L.L. Larkins

Genre: Non-Fiction

Release Date: July 10, 2019

You’ve landed on the final book of Biblical Psalms in the Psalm Hymns series, Volume Five, Psalms 107-150 contains singable, recitable psalms in full form, adapted from the Biblical Psalms.

In this last volume of the Psalm Hymns series, you are offered a method for singing book V of the Biblical Psalms. Maybe your favorite psalm is included.

There are some sticky psalms, like Psalm 119- King David’s love poem to God’s law. You can ask yourself while singing it, why the law is important to a King. Psalm 137 is full of bile and bitterness, written by the remnant captives after the desolation of Jerusalem. But there are also the most lyrical and beautiful of praises for the eternal rule of God found in the Psalms of Ascent and in Psalm 107 and Psalm 136.

Psalm 139 is the lyrical ode and articulate description of God knitting our bodies together in secret, and how He watches over and cares for us no matter where we go.

The Celebration Psalms finish out the entire book of Psalms and Psalm Hymns series as a grand finale.

Click here for your copy!

About the Author

More from L. L. Larkins

Hi, and welcome to everyone wanting to go deep and wide, welcome to this singing book tour of the Psalms!

It’s my feeling that no other kind of Bible study can be quite as fun as a singing Bible study! You look at each other and can get a little anxious, but then someone starts singing the tune with the words of the Psalm and then everyone joins in or takes a turn. Nervous people start singing harmonies, then they get stronger.  People start laughing at themselves or at the wonder of the words they’ve never really heard before.  Afterward, people start commenting and asking questions. It’s just a blast!

The Psalms were written as prayers and soulful examinations about life, and as secret cover letters in times of war, and as testimonies about God’s miracles. But the Psalms were always meant to be sung rather than recited. Did you know? Singing excites the imagination and connects a variety of brain synapsis so that they create spiritual buzzes, new understanding, and alarms ring with new opportunities for faith and belief.

Our church uses the Psalm Hymns books as hymnals.  We sing a psalm before each message.

If you are going on a tour of the Holy Land or are an educator or lay leader or pastor, I hope that you contact my publisher, Capture Books, about getting some copies of the Psalm Hymns in bulk for groups.  I think there is special group pricing available.

Thanks so much for this opportunity to show off Biblical Literature adapted for today’s Church experience.

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, L.L. is giving away the grand prize package of signed copies of the Psalm Hymns books (1-5)!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/f53e/psalm-hymns-v-celebration-tour-giveaway

About the Book

Book:  Indebted

Author: Charmayne Hafen

Genre: Young Adult, Adventure, Mythology

Release Date: August 25, 2019

When the abandoned princess discovers a friend, some muscle, and a passion for swords, she also acquires the crucible by which she uncovers the mysterious key to unlock her grief and win true freedom. Or will her strength confound her future in the kingdom to which she rides?
At the mythical edge of the Berkshire Forests, Wren finds herself rattling around in an austere castle, abandoned by the King and Queen. King Belodawn seems to blame his daughter for the mysterious disappearance of his wife, and he avoids his daughter at all costs in favor of conquests requiring his person away from the kingdom. But, things are about to change; the princess has matured. Wren’s spirit refuses to remain the lost bird she became at age twelve. With the aid of the cook and the cook’s son, Wren discovers her unknown dexterity in sword fighting. With it, she believes a new community in which to live will open up but is this young girl prepared to encounter deceptive ghosts, angels, and demons in the maze of the forest to attain her aim?

Click here for your copy.

About the Author

Charmayne Hafen is a graduate of John Brown University and has her masters in counseling from the Denver Seminary. Her love of Celtic mythology in Christian themes inspired her to write her debut Young Adult novel, Indebted: The Berkshire Dragon. She is a fan of the author, Stephen Lawhead.

She has written several short stories for children, teens, and adults, as well as the fantasy trilogy being published in 2020 by Capture Books, called, The Land of Twilight. She is currently working on the development of her sequel to The Berkshire Dragon.

More from Charmayne

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, January 22

For The Love Of Literature, January 23

Just the Write Escape, January 24

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 25

Mamma Loves Books, January 26

Wishful Endings, January 26 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 27

By The Book, January 28 (Author Interview)

janicesbookreviews, January 29

Inklings and notions, January 30

A Baker’s Perspective, January 31 (Author Interview)

Seasons of Opportunities, February 1

Blogging With Carol, February 2

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, February 3

Artistic Nobody, February 4

Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Divine Intentions

Author: Doug K. Reed

Genre: RELIGION / Christian Living/Personal Growth

Release Date: January 7, 2020

Divine Intentions takes readers on a journey of self-discovery through four key concepts: rescued, restored, relabeled, and redirected. Most people, even Christ-followers, are wounded at their core, with soul-level injuries that affect their identity. They may be hurting from past circumstances or feel trapped in their current ones. Basic discipleship sends believers on a journey…but it’s tough to take those steps while you’re hurting. Doug K. Reed offers healing for those who are searching for answers to their identities in Christ while struggling with wounds from the past or present. He shares his own personal story of restoration from pornography, pride, and other issues, helping to lead readers into the light of God’s love.

Click here to get your copy.

About the Author

Doug K. Reed is a full-time writer and speaker who travels to conferences and churches both in the U.S. and internationally. He is the president of Partnership International, a non-profit organization dedicated to completing meaningful projects in some of the world’s poorest environments. Partnership International has hosted thousands of people on short-term mission trips with a goal of sharing the love of God with the neediest among us. In his over thirty years of ministry experience, Doug has also served as a senior pastor and on staff at large churches.

More from Doug

DESIGNED FOR A PURPOSE

Woodworking has been a hobby of mine since childhood. When my wife, Jeanne, and I were engaged, I created a wooden jewelry box for her that she still treasures and uses to this day, thirty years later. Every time she uses it, she’s reminded of how much I love her.

That jewelry box was designed with a specific purpose in mind. If, God forbid, I ever got mad at her, removed her jewelry, and put my fishing lures in there, the gift that once brought joy would now cause pain. And that jewelry box would make a lousy tackle box because it was not designed for that purpose. My creation would fail to fulfill my original intention.

In a similar way, we have been lovingly designed by God for a specific purpose. We can fill our life with lesser things, but He lovingly designed us to hold the treasure of destiny. He created us with the capacity to fulfill all He has planned for us.

Far too many books are written to advanced leaders without considering where the majority of people find themselves.  The goal of the book is to meet people where they are.  The book dives into their pain and to honestly and authentically address it.  My own story is the constant backdrop in the book which adds greatly to its relatability.  The combination of storytelling and deep content make this book unique.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, January 31

Texas Book-aholic, February 1

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 2

Artistic Nobody, February 3 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 3

Inklings and notions, February 4

janicesbookreviews, February 5

Discipling4Life, February 6

For the Love of Literature, February 7

Andrea Christenson, February 8 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 9

For Him and My Family, February 10

Christian Bookshelf Reviews, February 11 (Author Interview)

CarpeDiem, February 12

Mary Hake, February 13

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Doug is giving away the grand prize of a $20 Starbucks gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/f53f/divine-intentions-celebration-tour-giveaway

About the Book

Book: Climbing into Eternity: My Descent In Hell and Flight To Heaven

Author: Michele Pulford

Genre: Non-Fiction

Release Date: April 2018

“I died twice and came back to tell about it.”

Michele flirted with death for six years, trying to numb her pain following a sexual pervert’s attack. Attempting to protect herself, she allowed hatred of men to control her, and used mind control to manipulate others. Suffering with acute anorexia nervosa, she was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital at age twenty-three.

She woke up in hell, a place of eternal damnation, horror, torment, and fire. Rescued by the Savior whose soft, gentle voice she had rejected, Michele was given a new chance at life and turned wholeheartedly to the Lord.

When her body was completely paralyzed from an anaphylactic allergy attack as a young mother, she found life leaving her body once again. “This time,” she says, “I was ushered into the splendorous glory of Heaven—a place of almost indescribable light and love.”

Sent back to tell her story, Michele Pulford warns others of the horrors of the kingdom of darkness, and tells them of the glory of true abundant life in God’s kingdom of light.

This personal love story, as well as a story about death and eternal life, is both a warning and a promise, and ultimately an unforgettable account of the love of God that would not let a young woman go.

Click here to get your copy.

Guest Review from Kelsey Barela

Unfortunately, I was unable to finish this book because of the theological issues in it. I read about half of it before I could not continue; if felt wrong to be reading it. Due to this, I am unable to recommend this book to anyone. I know authors put their hearts and souls into their work, so I appreciate her effort in writing and feel terrible that I cannot give her a glowing review. Her story is heart-breaking to read with what happened to her at a young age, but I cannot in good conscience endorse the book.

If you do decide to read it, there are a few things that I feel I should warn you about. One is how negative and hateful she was for the entire portion I read of the book, which was just before the halfway mark. Michele Pulford suffered a horrible attack when she was young and it, understandably, scarred her; however, she describes in such detail how much she hated men and wanted them to suffer. It was so oppressive to read so much hatred with no rays of light. If you choose to read it, you may want to pace it so that you do not find yourself bogged down by the negative thoughts. Another thing I feel that I should warn potential readers about is her belief that demons spoke to her daily and gave her mind powers to harm men mentally. She believes that the demons granted her the power to “zone in and read people’s thoughts” (p. 39). This is a recurring theme in the book; she also thought she was able to use her mind powers to crush men’s spirits. Lastly, she is very descriptive in the attack that happened to her and her subsequent punishments she performed on herself. I think this may be a trigger for those who have been victims of sexual assaults and attacks. This attack is what fueled her hatred for men, and the fear of something like it happening again drove her to be an exercise fanatic so she could be stronger than men. Thoughts of what happened to her and how her senses played a part in it come up in the book a few times, which can cause a person to be very uncomfortable while reading it.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Celebrate Lit. I was in no way required to provide a review.

About the Author

Michele Pulford trained and worked as a fashion designer and textile lecturer from 1982 to 2009. After attending evening Bible school, she was further trained at MES Aksie, an evangelical missions ministry, before doing missionary outreach and relationship building among the locals in the Maghadighadi Pans of Botswana from 1990 to 1996. A marketplace intercessor and teacher on prayer, she makes her home with her husband Charles in South Africa. Their family consists of a son Cyle-jay, his wife Natasha, and grandson, Asher Ethan; and a daughter Brontii-ann.

More from Michele

After a sexual pervert’s attack at ten years of age, I invited evil into my life. I became an embittered, hateful teenager consumed by acute anorexia with murderous hate towards men. This led me into an abusive marriage of two years which ended with a failed murder attempt. Due to my failure I landed up DOA at my local hospital from premeditated suicide. On dying, I was taken to the evil and fiery demon invested accusing, tormenting pit of hell. It was here where the miraculous Light and Life of Jesus ripped through and rescued me.

I began my new life with my best friend, the Holy Spirit. Miraculously I married my high school sweetheart. The miraculous continued when after being declared completely barren, God’s love and grace stepped in resulting with me giving birth to a son and a daughter. Our family joy was shadowed by my soul-destroying bulimic addiction which God’s grace eventually set me free from. The life-death challenges did not end there. I found myself in an intense battle with witchdoctors as well with the dangers of onset anaphylactic attacks. It was one of these attacks that found me dying once again, with my husband and doctor watching. This time I was taken to the gates of heaven and glory. This is my story of life and death, heaven and hell, blessing and cursing.

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, January 23

janicesbookreviews, January 24

Simple Harvest Reads, January 25 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 26

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 27

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 28

A Baker’s Perspective, January 29 (Author Interview)

Spoken from the Heart, January 30

Inklings and notions, January 31

My Devotional Thoughts, February 1 (Author Interview)

Artistic Nobody, February 2 (Guest Review from Kelsey Barela)

For Him and My Family, February 3

For the Love of Literature, February 4 (Author Interview)

deb’s Book Review, February 5

Giveaway

To celebrate her the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card and ‘signed’ copy of Climbing Into Eternity, My Descent In Hell and Flight To Heaven!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/f52d/climbing-into-eternity-celebration-tour-giveaway

About the Book

Book:  The Portrait of A Christian

Author: Raymond Sopp

Genre: Non-fiction, Theology

Release Date: November, 2019

The apostle Paul, with great knowledge of Scripture, said in Philippians 3:7–8: “But whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted as loss for the sake of Christ. More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish in order that I may gain Christ.” (NASB)

It takes a courageous person to take a second look—to lay down their life—just as the apostle Paul. Are you willing to take a second look, to lay down your life? The Portrait of a Christian was written to help you do so.

For more than thirty-eight years, Minister Raymond D. Sopp studied the Scriptures, not to parrot God’s Word through memorization but just to know God’s heart as He communicated through His Word. To know anyone’s heart, you must listen to their words.

Raymond wrote The Portrait of a Christian to challenge and provoke thought to those who desire a closer relationship with Christ. He wanted to paint a portrait of God’s heart through thirty-one separate commentaries—starting with the importance God placed on His Gospel and ending with a Lost Love. All of us must earnestly contend for the faith!

Click here to get your copy.

About the Author

Minister Raymond D. Sopp has been a born-again Christian for more than thirty-eight years and ordained for more than eighteen years. He is not affiliated with any organization, nor a denomination. This has given him a unique opportunity to view the entire realm of Christianity from an objective point of view. His heart broke when he saw so many inconsistencies within the Church at-large. He inherently knew in his heart that the best way to point out error is to expose the truth in a way to provoke thought and challenge the Christian reader, while at the same time reach out to the nonbelieiver.

Concerned by the teachings that he heard, or better yet, what he did not hear, he started a ministry on May 1, 1996 solely focused on reaching the world. (Sopp Ministries became a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization on January 1, 1999.) The only purpose this ministry has is salvation both within and outside the Church at-large. Being somewhat overwhelmed, he knew he needed to stay focused on delivering a narrow message—a message that will cause all to examine themselves (2 Corinthians 13:5) to see if they’re literally born-again—to a true and biblical salvation—a simple message that has both temporal and eternal implications.

More from Raymond

Do you believe we’re approaching the Last Days? Are you seeing the season change—beginning to see leaves fall to the ground? Yes! Then, The Portrait of a Christian, is a must read for you.

There are several warnings given to the professing Christian in God’s Word; to me, the most terrifying warning to the professing Christian for this time we’re living in is what Jesus said in Matthew 7:15–23: “‘Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits. Grapes are not gathered from thorn bushes, nor figs from thistles, are they? Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but the bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot produce bad fruit, nor can a bad tree produce good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. So then, you will know them by their fruits. Not everyone who says to Me Lord, Lord will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven.’ Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness.’” (NASB)

The book I wrote, The Portrait of a Christian, is to help the professing Christian not to be one of those who just say “Lord, Lord.” Are you willing to take a second look at your Christianity? If so, then The Portrait of a Christian was written for you.

Author Interview with Raymond D. Sopp

How did writing this book grow you spiritually?

I grew exponentially spiritually as I wrote, The Portrait of a Christian. I studied the Bible diligently and prayed what to write about for two months before I began to write a chapter.

What do you like to do when you are not writing?

Minister to others and give out the Gospel message.

Favorite quote?

For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son.

When did you start writing?

1996

How do you do research for your books?

With much prayer I read the Bible from Genesis to Revelation—without looking first at any commentaries written by others.

Thank you Raymond for taking your time to let us get to know you better!

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, January 27

Texas Book-aholic, January 28

Inklings and notions, January 29

Artistic Nobody, January 30 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 31

deb’s Book Review, February 1

janicesbookreviews, February 2

Discipling4Life, February 3

Blossoms and Blessings, February 4 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, February 4

For the Love of Literature, February 5

For Him and My Family, February 6

Through the Fire Blogs, February 7 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 8

Godly Book Reviews, February 9

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Raymond is giving away the grand prize of a $50 amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/f531/portrait-of-a-christian-celebration-tour-giveaway

About the Book

Book: Faith’s Journey

Author: Heather Greer

Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance

Release Date: February, 2018

Sometimes it’s the unexpected path that leads you on your journey back to faith.

Katie McGowan left her parents and their faith behind years ago. However, when faced with a devastating betrayal, Katie is ready to go back to Carbondale, Illinois to help her elderly parents despite their tempestuous relationship. Drained by the constant friction, Katie finds emotional support and encouragement in Austin. His practical, simple faith speaks to Katie, and she finds herself yearning for a new connection to God. As their friendship grows, so does the attraction between Katie and Austin.

Before her fledgling faith and thoughts of romance have a chance to take root, Katie’s cheating fiancé returns, remorseful and promising change. Can her tentative faith strengthen their past love? And if her heart breaks again, will Katie’s journey to faith end before it has really begun?

Click here to get your copy.

About the  Author

Heather Greer is a pastor’s kid and pastor’s wife from southern Illinois. Though her nest is quickly approaching the empty stage, with three of her four children out on their own, she enjoys the times she gets to spend with all her children, husband, and grandson. Equal mix geek and romantic, you could as easily find Heather watching an episode of Doctor Who as the latest Hallmark movie. Of course, you may find her baking, reading, or crafting too!

Heather’s writing and teaching ministries revolve around a passion to see believers grow in their faith. Though God has used her most often with teens and adults, she has worked in ministries reaching all age groups through the years. It is Heather’s prayer for God to use what she writes in her books and on her blog to challenge and encourage readers in their faith walks.

More from Heather

What happens when a person raised in church begins to see the failure of those within the church to live their faith every day instead of on Sunday morning? Often, the truths of scripture are pushed aside in favor of blanket statements like “churches are full of hypocrites” and “I don’t want to follow a God whose people are like that”. In frustration, they walk out the church doors in frustration. Sometimes they walk out with their beliefs intact, but other times faith gets left in the pew they vacate.

That’s what happened to Katie in Faith’s Journey. And when she left home for college disappointed with the people in the church she was raised in and at odds with her mother, it was all too easy to listen to the voices in her life telling her religion and God made no difference in life.  Deciding she knew better than anyone what her life should be, Katie makes her own decisions without considering the God she left behind.

It takes a return home for Katie to start realizing there may be more to God than the people in the pews. Maybe she was quick to see the failures of others to live their faith but slow to see her own problems with the same issue. And maybe it’s time to acknowledge that regardless of how others are living out their faith, God has plans for her and desires a relationship with her that defines who she is every day.

While the original idea that sparked Faith’s Journey was what happens when someone you love betrays you, I quickly realized Katie’s story was more than that. In a sense, the first betrayal she needed to face wasn’t the one with her boyfriend. It was the perceived betrayal by those in the church who failed to live faith outside the church walls. It’s a feeling I believe many Christians have to face since there isn’t a perfect person in any pew.

I pray Faith’s Journey may be an encouragement and give a new perspective to those who currently struggle with the idea of church. And I hope it’s also a challenge to those of us faithfully in the pews each week to make our time there about more than religion or habit. I pray Faith’s Journey challenges us to evaluate the depth of relationship with have with God and let Him change the way we live every day, not just on Sunday.

Author Interview with Heather Greer

What is your favorite childhood book?

That isn’t an easy question. I remember going to the school library each week and picking out a Berenstain Bears book to take home. Those are the first ones I remember loving. But as I got a little older my mom worked in a Christian bookstore. She would bring home Janette Oake’s Animal Friends series for me. I specifically remember Spunky’s Diary from that series. Sweet Valley High books were popular when I was in middle school and junior high. I never read them, but I loved a Christian version called the Cedar River Daydreams series by Judy Baer and the Christy Miller series by Robin Jones Gunn. I think my first book crushes came from those two series!

What do you like to do when you’re not writing?

I read. I love to bake and do craft projects. I’m not really picky and will try anything I think is cute. Usually it’s something I’ve found on Pinterest.  And I’m guilty of binge watching my favorite television shows and the latest Hallmark movies. But I usually turn to the shows and movies when I’ve had a long day and want to do something where I don’t have to think.

How do you select the names of your characters?

It really depends. I named Katie after my great-grandmother, though she is nothing like the real Katherine McGowan. My granny wouldn’t have let anyone get away with calling her Katie! I don’t usually name characters after real people, but there are exceptions like Katie. Other than that, I usually start with a picture of the character. Once I have that, I consider their personality, where they’re from, and what they look like to come up with names that suit them. Once I have a name, I’ll text it to a few friends and get their feedback on it.

What comes first, the plot or the characters?

Though I can’t say it’s always the case, I think my plot comes first. Or at least the idea that brings the plot. I’m generally more of a pantser than a plotter. When I sit down to write I have a theme or scene that has inspired me. I don’t usually have much more than that. Any plotting I do is fairly loose and general. Due to this less structured way of writing, I have to have the characters in place before I have all the details worked out. On rare occasions I may start with a character, but those are very rare.

What was your hardest scene to write?

What was the hardest in Faith’s Journey or overall? Any scenes where betrayal plays a part are difficult because whether it’s a friend, family member, or someone we’re in love with having trust broken in the relationship, to me, is one of the worst things that can happen.  I believe most of us have probably felt that sting at one point or another. And betrayal and the damage it causes are themes I had to deal with in Faith’s Journey from a romantic perspective, parental perspective, and spiritual perspective.

The hardest scene I’ve had to write overall would have to be the time I gave a main character a happy ending only to tear it all away. To set this person on the right track and then challenge her with incredible loss seemed cruel but necessary. Readers of this story have expressed their own anger at what happens and their desires to see the character find restoration. It was as difficult for me to write these scenes as it is for the readers to read them.

Thank you Heather for taking the time to let us get to know you better!

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, January 24

Through the Fire Blogs, January 25

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 26

Inklings and notions, January 27

janicesbookreviews, January 28

Artistic Nobody, January 29 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, January 29

For the Love of Literature, January 30

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 31

Quiet Quilter, February 1

Older & Smarter?, February 2

Emily Yager, February 3

Godly Book Reviews, February 4

Pause for Tales, February 5

A Baker’s Perspective, February 6 (Author Interview)

Batya’s Bits, February 7

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Heather is giving away a Cozy Winter Nights giveaway including a $15 Amazon gift card, a mug, assorted teas and hot chocolates, chocolate, and a fleece blanket to create the perfect reading experience on cold winter nights!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/f52e/faith-s-journey-celebration-tour-giveaway

About the Book

Book: Hidden Current

Author: Sharon Hinck

Genre: Christian Fantasy

Release Date: January 14, 2020

The dancers of the Order direct their floating world of Meriel with their movements, but are they steering it toward destruction ?

Calara spent her life learning dance patterns and seeking to become the perfect servant to her people. When she discovers the work of the Order is built on lies, she flees with a rough-edged herder, Brantley of Windswell.   Pursued by soldiers of the Order, her journey through the suffering villages of the rim leads her to a forgotten truth that sends ripples through her world—and through her soul.

Calara’s seeks clues to her forgotten family, discovers newfound courage in the face of danger, and awakens a growing but forbidden affection for Brantley. Yet even his support can’t fully be trusted, since he’d rather destroy the Order than bring reform.

She is a lone woman facing opposition from rim villages and treachery from the all-powerful Order. Can she restore the dance to its true purpose and bring freedom and hope to her people?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Award-winning author of the ground-breaking Sword of Lyric series, Sharon Hinck is a wife, mom, and recent grandma, has an M.A. in communication, and has served as the artistic director of a Christian performing arts group, a church youth worker, and a professional choreographer, and an adjunct writing professor. To learn more about her writing, visit her at www.sharonhinck.com.

More from Sharon

Have you ever felt that nothing you do is ever enough? Not good enough? Meaningful enough? Do you ever think that if you could be more perfect, all your problems would be solved? In my new novel, I explore a character whose entire culture tells her that she must achieve perfection – and that answers to her world’s problems rest solely on human effort. Set in an imaginative fantasy world, I hope her journey will ring true for readers in our world.

I’m so excited to finally be able to share my new novel, Hidden Current, with readers. Can you see me Snoopy dancing?

And speaking of dancing …

What inspired this new series?

 Years before I wrote my first novel, I worked as a dance teacher, choreographer, and artistic director of a Christian dance company. So, when my agent and I were discussing ideas for my next book, he said, “In all your other novels, you’ve never drawn from your experience in dance. I’d love to see you create a brand-new fantasy world and utilize dance in some way.”

I began mulling the idea, and within days, a character had come to life.

In my new novel, Hidden Current, the dancers of the Order direct their floating world with their movements but are steering it toward destruction. One lone dancer fights to overcome opposition from rim villages and treachery from the all-powerful Order and bring a forgotten truth to her people.

Is this part of a series?

Yes, but this is a stand-alone story. That means that although I’ve written more books with these characters, you don’t have to wait for the series to release, fearing an unresolved ending to book one. The story is complete of itself, with just a hint of the next adventure to follow. I’ve already done my revisions on the second book and have finished writing book three. J

Why should I order soon?

This is being released in limited edition hardcover. That means when it’s gone, it’s gone.

Is this similar to the Sword of Lyric books?

Yes and no. It’s not a “portal fantasy” – no modern-day character visits this world. However, like my other fantasy series, the book was inspired by spiritual themes, delves deeply into the heart of a character that many of us can relate to, and paints a unique story world full of both beauty and dangers. I’m so excited for its release!

Author Interview with Sharon Hinck

What’s your favorite under-appreciated novel?

Perelandra by C.S.Lewis. Many people love his Narnia series and his nonfiction, or other fiction such as The Screwtape Letters or The Great Divorce. But some people have missed his space trilogy. Perelandra is the second in that set, and the first time I read it, decades ago, it spoke to my heart in powerful ways, and showed me that a story could lead my heart into worship. I give a nod to that book (which includes floating islands) by setting Hidden Current on a floating land that was designed to drift with the currents on a vast ocean world.

What was your hardest scene to write?

I don’t want to give away spoilers, but I do hate making my characters suffer. Yet good stories often involve painful situations for the characters. In Hidden Current, my heroine faces something that I almost couldn’t make my fingers type, because I knew how painful the event was for her. It was also hard because I identified with her pain so much. She loses a big part of who she is – and I’ve had that happen in my life. A difficult challenge, indeed!

What is your favorite childhood book?

Too many to list! But the first book I learned to read was Go, Dog, Go by Dr. Seuss. And I’m still a person who feels that longing to go, go, go.

If you had to do something differently as a child or teenager to become a better writer as an adult, what would you do?

I wish I’d continued journaling and writing poetry and songs. Once I was in college and grad school, I had so much “homework” writing to do, that I got out of the habit of free writing. Then I was busy raising children and if I managed to jot a few thoughts in their baby books, I was doing well. When I began writing as a profession, I was able to return to those loves. Writing devotions (which I’ve done for Guidepost’s Mornings with Jesus for many years) is a lot like journaling. In my Sword of Lyric series, I wrote songs, poetry, and the literature of the people’s “Verses.”

What comes first, the plot or characters?

I’m all about characters. I may have a theme or story question in mind that begin to shape the novel, but once the character arrives in my mind, then I’m off and running. And I follow the character’s adventure. I’m the same way when I read. If a character grabs me, I’m all in – regardless of genre or voice of the author.

Thank you Sharon for taking the time to let us get to know you better!

Blog Stops

Inklings and notions, January 25

Texas Book-aholic, January 26

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, January 27

Artistic Nobody, January 28 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 28

Fiction Aficionado, January 29

janicesbookreviews, January 30

Emily Yager, January 31

For the Love of Literature, February 1

Wishful Endings, February 2 (Author Interview)

Mia Reads, February 2

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 3

Blogging With Carol, February 4

Tell Tale Book Reviews, February 5

Worthy2Read, February 6

Pause for Tales, February 7

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Sharon is giving away to two winners each the grand prize of a gift box full of goodies including: a Hidden Current book bag, a selection of other books by Sharon Hinck, Tsalla tea from Adagio (the tea they drink in the novel), chocolates, a packet of “star rain” (also from the book), an artistic book mark, and autographed book plate!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/f52f/hidden-current-celebration-tour-giveaway

About the Book

Book: King Here

Author: Trish Porter Topmiller

Genre: Religion/Christian or Spiritual

Release Date: May 7, 2019

Trusting God and sharing Jesus with aging parents can be difficult. As Trish Porter Topmiller watched her father’s casket be lowered into the ground, she knew the complicated jigsaw puzzle of his life finally held the missing piece―Jesus. But for years, his life seemed as far away from grace, and a believing faith in God, as a person can be. A multimillionaire entrepreneur who believed his financial fortress (and business acumen) was invincible, he turned into a workaholic adrenaline junkie―and ultimate opioid statistic who had given up on life. Even then, grace found him.

King Here offers hope that no matter how old, how rich or how addicted someone is, it’s never too late to meet Jesus. Trish shares her father’s inspiring, yet tragic life story―filled with adventure and color and unique escapades―to reveal God’s plan for an old rich man who thought he had no need for God. Stepping back to see the big picture brings to light the hope and joy that God truly can answer prayers and do the impossible, but it doesn’t always look the way readers expect. In this moving tribute to her father, Trish encourages readers to never give up on loved ones who seem “too far gone” for God to reach.

Click here to get your copy.

My Thoughts

I must admit this is a hard review to write. After finishing the book, I came away with mixed feelings. On one hand, it was interesting to see God’s sovereignty in the author’s life. I loved that she used a puzzle to help demonstrate this. Often times, we don’t understand why God has allowed something bad to happen to us, or those we love. Yet, as time goes on, we see the “puzzle pieces” fall into place and we understand why it happened. It’s one of the reasons I love the stories of Joseph and Esther so much.

However, there were some things about this book that I just didn’t enjoy. I think the history of the early years was a little too long. I don’t think all the stories needed to be included to understand her father. There are some theological views that I don’t agree with in the book as well. I know it’s not a popular belief, but I don’t think so much emphasis should be placed on a special prayer. God’s not looking down waiting for the words of our practiced prayer. We don’t need to treat sharing about Christ and His mercy like a sales pitch, where at the end we need to “close the deal” and ask if they want to accept Christ. God does everything in His own timing. There’s nothing in the Bible about this approach in the Bible. I just want to say too, that I think we need to be careful when labeling certain issues. In today’s day and age, it’s becoming more and more common to shift the blame for our own choices and sin issues by trying to label it as something else that we can’t control. I think it’s a good and biblical practice to truly evaluate what is sin nature and what falls into the other category.

All in all, I can’t give this book more than three stars. While it was amazing to see how God’s hand was in the author’s life, I think it focused too much on the man before Christ, and too little on God’s mercy and grace.

I received a copy of the book from the author via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

About the Author

Trish Porter Topmiller is a Christian writer who is a 1988 U.S. Olympian in the high jump, former world record holder for women age 40-44 in the high jump, and multiple times U.S. National and World Masters Champion. Trish is a frequent speaker and guest on radio and television programs and has been the subject of interviews in the Wall Street Journal, U.S.A Today, and Today’s Christian Woman. She is a survivor in Life. Trish lost her husband of twenty years (Pat Porter 2 time Olympian) and son Connor (U.S. National Fencing Medalist) in a plane accident in 2012. She remarried in 2016 and has a wonderful daughter who is a nationally competitive figure skater. She attends Woodmen Valley Church in Colorado Springs, Colorado andSagebrush Church in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She has a B.S. BusinessMarketing degree from University of Oregon.

More from Trish

I did not set out to write a book. I was preparing to talk at my Dad’s funeral and I looked at his life; the outrageous adventures, his business success, all the tragedies, and then the miracles. I realized his life was like an amazing puzzle and only God knew the puzzle box top. That’s when the outline came to me. He affected so many people and generations and once home, I was compelled to continue writing and it began to take shape and grow. I wanted information about publishing, so I contacted Terry Whalin who wrote Billy Graham’s biography. He said it was a story that I needed to share with people beyond my family.

 King Here, is not only about finding faith and hope, but about the strength and courage it takes to handle what comes our way.  In a five-year period, from 2012-2017, I was confronted with the loss of my husband of twenty years (a two-time Olympian), and my beautiful fifteen year old son, Connor (a U.S. National Fencing medalist). They perished in an airplane accident where my husband was the pilot. A few years later my stepmother died at age 60 after a battle with addiction and then my father.

My prayer is you can be drawn into my Dad’s and my life and not want to put the book down. May your basket be filled with nuggets of wisdom and inspiration. May you enjoy the journey and the roller coaster of emotions. May you see how I trusted the Lord through tragedy which strengthens your faith. May you be encouraged to pray for those around you and be empowered to share Jesus with others.

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, January 8

Inklings and notions, January 9

Through the Fire Blogs, January 10 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 11

Just the Write Escape, January 12

Andrea Christenson, January 13 (Author Interview)

For the Love of Literature, January 14

janicesbookreviews, January 15

Simple Harvest Reads, January 16 (Author Interview)

As He Leads is Joy, January 17

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 18

CarpeDiem, January 19

Vicky Sluiter, January 20 (Author Interview)

Artistic Nobody, January 21

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Trish is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/f467/king-here-celebration-tour-giveaway

About the Book

Book:  Breaking Point

Author: Marji Laine

Genre: Psychological suspense, romance

Release Date: September, 2019

The mere rumor of treasure can change lives, destroy friendships… even kill?

Alynne’s Stone’s planned out and predictable life ended when she hurried to her mother’s side to support her during a family tragedy. So why would she now have a target on her back? Her father’s death had nothing to do with her, but suddenly she’s having these “accidents”? How can she stay and support her mom when someone is intent on eliminating her?

Police Lieutenant Jason Danvers believes her father was murdered. How, he can’t fathom, but he also can’t ignore the details that don’t add up. Attempts on Alynne’s life must be somehow connected. Still dealing with the pain of his own wife’s death, he can’t allow an innocent woman to die on his watch. Especially one as scintillating as Alynne Stone.

Even in a small town, things—and people—aren’t always what they appear to be.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Marji Laine has completed seventeen years of homeschooling, but with her publishing business, her various volunteer activities, and her large family, she will likely never live a life of leisure. And that suits her just fine! When she does find spare time, she enjoys watching sports and Hallmark movies and mysteries, loves having game night with her family and friends, and enjoys talking “shop” with other authors. You can usually find her in her favorite recliner, plucking away at her keyboard with her rescue fur-babies at her feet or at http://www.MarjiLaine.com.

More from Marji

It Started with a Dream

You know how just before you actually wake up, you sometimes have dreams that stay with you? I’ve recently chatted with a lady who had a dream about her husband and woke up mad at the man without realizing that her discontent was from a dream. Dreams are powerful, amplified thoughts that can move us to unexpected emotions and actions.

Such was the case with me. My latest release, BREAKING POINT, actually stemmed from a dream.

I had a scene in my sleep of a woman trapped on the roof of a beautiful, three-story, Victorian house, having crept out the window of one of the second floor gables. A storm whirled around her, slapping her brunette hair across her eyes and into her mouth. She was afraid of something.

Then I saw the something… or rather the someone. A hand raised above the eave of the roof. A man’s gravelly voice, “I know you’re up here.”

Lightning flashed revealing the top of his head as he climbed onto the window sill from which she had escaped. His left hand gripped the eave of the roof, likely holding onto the gingerbread décor that laced the edging.

The woman had nowhere to go, no other place to hide. Thunder jarred the air and rumbled across the ground. The woman stiffened, but not from the explosive sound.

The man’s eyes appeared over the rooftop. “There you are.”

This was it. She had no hope of survival. After all she’d done to avoid this moment.

He leaned to his left to pull his right hand over the edge of the roof. A murderous glint filled his dark eyes as a smile stretched his lips. The barrel of a gun appeared, cresting the roof.

Then a loud crack split the night. Not thunder. The man’s smile disappeared as his mouth fell open and his eyes widened. He dropped the gun and grabbed at the surface of the shingles with both hands.

The woman had climbed up the side of the gable up to the top of it. The surface didn’t offer a finger grip anywhere. The gingerbread must have broken, giving the man no handhold.

With a prolonged yell, the man’s face and hands disappeared from view. A close lightning strike and the thunderous result covered the sound of the man hitting the ground below.

This scene, from a dream, was where the story BREAKING POINT began. It was actually the very first novel I ever completed. However, after no less than five total rewrites where I changed every aspect of the story except the hero, heroine, and the setting – the beautiful Victorian house – that scene didn’t make it to the book at all. Maybe it will find itself in a new story someday!

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, January 11

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 12

Betti Mace, January 13

Texas Book-aholic, January 14

Reading Is My SuperPower, January 15

janicesbookreviews, January 16

Inklings and notions, January 17

For the Love of Literature, January 18

For Him and My Family, January 19

deb’s Book Review, January 20

Artistic Nobody, January 21 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, January 22

Blogging With Carol , January 23

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 24

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Marji is giving away the grand prize package of a Texas mug, Bluebonnet seeds, Bluebonnet room spray, and some specialty chocolate!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/f46a/breaking-point-celebration-tour-giveaway