The Difference You Make: Changing Your World Through The Impact of Your Influence by Pat Williams with Jim Denney


4.0 out of 5 stars You Can Make A Difference!

Book Description

Publication Date: February 1, 2013

Every one of us has influence, whether we realize it or not. In everything we say and do, we are influencing those around us. What if we became more aware, more intentional, and more strategic about our own influence? Well, we might just change the world.

True influence, says Pat Williams, isn't about getting what you want--it's about serving others. Using personal stories from his own life and the lives of others, Williams shows readers the difference between influence and manipulation, how to influence others through both words and deeds, and ultimately how to change the world for the better, one relationship at a time.

This book will inspire readers to build a positive legacy in the lives of others and take the role of influencer to heart. Each chapter includes questions and ideas for personal reflection and practical application, and can be used to guide group discussions as well. Includes a foreword by Joe Girardi, manager of the New York Yankees.

Biography

Pat Williams is the senior vice president of the NBA's Orlando Magic. As one of America's top motivational, inspirational, and humorous speakers, he has addressed thousands of executives in organizations ranging from Fortune 500 companies and national associations to universities and nonprofits. Clients include AllState, American Express, Cisco, Coca-Cola, Disney, Honeywell, IBM, ING, Lockheed Martin, Nike, PriceWaterhouseCoopers and Tyson Foods to name a few. Pat is also the author of over 70 books, his most recent title being "NBA LIST JAM!"

Since 1968, he has been in the NBA as general manager for teams in Chicago, Atlanta, Philadelphia--including the 1983 World Champion 76ers--and now the Orlando Magic, which he co-founded in 1987 and helped lead to the NBA finals in 1995 and 2009. Twenty-three of his teams have gone to the NBA playoffs and five have made the NBA finals. In 1996, Pat was named as one of the 50 most influential people in NBA history by a national publication. Pat is also a recipient of the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award from the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

Pat has been an integral part of NBA history, including bringing the NBA to Orlando. He has traded Pete Maravich as well as traded for Julius Erving, Moses Malone, and Penny Hardaway, and he has won four NBA draft lotteries, including back-to-back winners in 1992 and 1993. He also drafted Charles Barkley, Shaquille O'Neal, Maurice Cheeks, Andrew Toney and Darryl Dawkins. He signed Billy Cunningham, Chuck Daly, and Matt Guokas to their first professional coaching contracts. Nineteen of his former players have become NBA head coaches, nine have become college head coaches while seven have become assistant NBA coaches.

Additonally, Pat served for seven years in the United States Army, spent seven years in the Philadelphia Phillies organization--two as a minor league catcher and five in the front office--and has also spent three years in the Minnesota Twins organization.

Pat and his wife, Ruth, are the parents of 19 children, including 14 adopted from four nations, ranging in age from 23 to 36. For one year, 16 of his children were all teenagers at the same time. Pat and his family have been featured in Sports Illustrated, Readers Digest, Good Housekeeping, Family Circle, The Wall Street Journal, Focus on the Family, New Man Magazine, plus all of the major television networks, The Maury Povich Show and Dr. Robert Schuller's Hour of Power.

Pat teaches an adult Sunday school class at First Baptist Church of Orlando and hosts three weekly radio shows. In the last 13 years, he has completed 53 marathons--including the Boston Marathon 12 times--and also climbed Mt. Rainier. He is a weightlifter, Civil War buff and serious baseball fan. Every winter he plays in Major League Fantasy Camps and has caught Hall of Famers Bob Feller, Bob Gibson, Fergie Jenkins, Rollie Fingers, Gaylord Perry, Phil Niekro, Tom Seaver and Goose Gossage.

Pat was raised in Wilmington, Delaware, earned his bachelors degree at Wake Forest University, and his master's degree at Indiana University. He is a member of the Wake Forest Sports Hall of Fame after catching for the Deacon baseball team, including the 1962 Atlantic Coast Conference Championship team. He is also a member of the Delaware Sports Hall of Fame

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My Review ~

Pat Williams is senior vice president and co-founder of the Orlando Magic basketball team and a well-known motivational speaker who shares valuable lessons regarding how to impact and influence others. His vast experience with numerous successful individuals of influence has played a significant role in establishing and sharing the concrete steps to becoming an influential person. Athletes play a major role in influencing countless people through their attitudes and actions. The old adage, "Action speaks louder than words" strikes a cord in how people react to those influencers. People can be impressed by others, but they are influenced by how we treat others. Our words and actions have a great deal of impact on others. By using examples of well-known and popular individuals Pat Williams has created a wealth of information pertaining to the successful actions and influence these influencers have on our lives. Mentoring is a valuable action in how we proceed in impacting others. A person of great influence knows how to build others up and empower them to emulate those character traits themselves. In our attempts to influence others our deeds need to reflect our words or there is no credibility. We can talk the talk, but being a true influencer we need to walk the walk and set the pace for those who are observing us.

Pat Williams has written a very interesting and informative book, sharing his experiences with numerous famous individuals who have had a major influence in his life. He introduces the reader to many famous sports people, motivators and high achievers. His diagnosis and treatment for cancer have also impacted his life, and he shares his reactions very openly and in a candid manner. His philosophy of being truthful sets a positive pace in this highly motivational book. His basic principals for how to go about becoming a positive influence on those around us are valuable lessons we can all put into use every day in every way. 

Disclaimer: I was given a copy of this book by BookFun.org in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own and I have received no monetary compensation for this review. Thank you to Fred St. Laurent from The Book Club Network and Revell for offering this reviewer program.

Reign: The Chronicles of Queen Jezebel  (Lost Loves of the Bible Series #3) by Ginger Garrett

4.0 out of 5 stars Biblical Fiction

Beyond the Drama, Her Heart Was Real

From the moment her marriage to prince Ahab thrusts her into the intrigues of palace life, Jezebel’s exotic beauty opens doors and her will breaks down walls. Torn from her homeland and wed to power in a strange country, Jezebel vows to create a legacy and power all her own. Some might call her a manipulative schemer, bent on having her way. But they don’t know the whole story, and she was much, much worse.

As she moves through the halls of power, her heart struggles between devotion to the gods she worships, the prince who loves her, and her thirst for revenge. She sparks a battle between her strangely powerless gods and the God of palace administrator Obadiah-a God who confronts her with surprising might. She will fight, though victory may cost her everything.

Author Biography

Ginger Garrett is the critically acclaimed author of Chosen: The Lost Diaries of Queen Esther, which was recognized as one of the top five novels of 2006 by the ECPA, and Dark Hour. An expert in ancient women's history, Ginger creates novels and nonfiction resources that explore the lives of historical women. A frequent media guest and television host, Ginger has been interviewed by The New York Times, NPR, Billy Graham's The Hour of Decision," The Harvest Show, Fox News, and many other outlets.

In 2007, Ginger was nominated for the Georgia Author of the Year Award for her novel Dark Hour. A graduate of Southern Methodist University with a degree in theater, she is passionate about creating art from history. You can learn more about Ginger and her work by visiting www.gingergarrett.com 

My Review ~

"Reign: The Chronicles of Queen Jezebel" is fictional, based on the biblical story of Queen Jezebel and King Ahab, betrothed as a union between two nations. Jezebel was the daughter of King Eth-Baal who reigned in Phoenicia where the practice of worshiping gods and goddesses demanded the sacrifice of infants and children. Ahab was the son of King Omri of Israel, the land of Yahweh, a land of armies. Obadiah is a servant to Ahab, and serves as his administrator. His role in this story is one whose advice to Ahab is unheeded, and he is too timid to command respect. His relationship with the prophet Elijah is valuable, but his lacking strength of character fails him and his allegiance to Ahab.

Jezebel, unloved and neglected as a child, became a vicious woman, scorned by all, including her husband. Ahab was not a born leader, and as he ignored Yahweh's warnings Israel suffered great tragedies. Jezebel's wickedness and mean spirit only brought hatred and disrespect. Her beauty was her only attribute. Her hateful spirit positions her husband against her, although he had previously loved her. 

This fictional tale of the lives of Jezebel, Ahab and Obadiah is an emotional sojourn. The author researched her biblical history well. There were a few slow passages, but the story was well told and interesting beyond what I expected. I was compelled to get my bible out to read the biblical account of this profound story. For those interested in an enhancement of Jezebel's character and influence, this is an excellent portrayal.

Disclaimer: I was given an advanced reader copy of this book by Wynn-Wynn Media for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own and I was given no monetary compensation for this review.

A Quilt for Jenna (Apple Creek Dreams Series, #1) by Patrick E Craig


5.0 out of 5 stars Much More Than Amish Fiction!

Book Description

Amish + Quilts = readers delight!  And in this first book in Patrick Craig's Apple Creek Dreams series, readers will follow Jerusha Springer's journey out of tragic circumstances to a new life of hope.

Jerusha has spent months making the most beautiful quilt anyone in Apple Creek, Ohio, has ever seen, and she knows it's going to take first prize at the Quilt Fair in Dalton.  The prize will be her ticket out of the Amish way of life--away from the memories of her dead daughter and her tormented husband.  But on the way to the Fair, she gets caught in the Storm of The Century and Jerusha's driver crashes their car.  While the driver goes for help, Jerusha is led by someone, or something, to the side of a lost little girl.  By the time the storm clears, Jerusha finds there is a greater prize to be won than money and blue ribbons.

A beautiful story of loss....and redemption.

About the Author

Patrick E. Craig is a lifelong writer and musician who left a successful songwriting and performance career in the music industry to follow Christ in 1984. He spent the next twenty-six years as a worship leader, seminar speaker and pastor in churches, and at retreats, seminars and conferences all across the Western United States. After ministering for a number of years in music and worship to a circuit of small churches in Northern California, he is now concentrating on writing and publishing both fiction and non-fiction books. He has recently signed a three book deal with Harvest House Publishers to publish his "Apple Creek Dreams" series. The books are historical Amish fiction and the first book, "A Quilt for Jenna," will be released January 1, 2013. Patrick is represented by the Steve Laube Agency.

My Review ~

Reuben and Jerusha are deeply in love but Reuben questions the Amish faith. He leaves the fold to enlist in the marines in the throes of World War II. Jerusha discovers upon Reuben's return that he is not the same man she knew before he left. His scars run deep, and Jerusha is concerned about his change in character and his sudden conviction to follow the Amish ordnung to the letter. Jerusha and Reuben marry, but the tragic loss of their only child tears them apart. Jerusha's way of handling her grief is to propel herself into her quilting. Her drive for perfection results in haughty pride over her masterpiece quilt. It becomes her escape route from the overwhelming grief she carries and anger toward God at the core of her being. Reuben bolts from his fears and guilt, and travels cross country to Colorado where he seeks a reprieve and an end to his anxieties. Both Reuben and Jerusha are battling their emotions in an unorthodox manner in an attempt to find relief from their captivity.  

A Quilt for Jenna is much more than a story about the Amish culture. It is a multifaceted presentation of very strong characters in this novel. Insights into overpowering emotional burdens and beliefs, or lack thereof, are challenged and examined. Jerusha and Reuben Springer are portrayed in depth as their stories unfold and through the insurmountable challenges they encounter. Patrick Craig is gifted with the art of creating vivid pictorial settings, creating reality in this story of tragedy and triumph.

Disclaimer: I was given a copy of this book by Harvest House Publishers with the express purpose of my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received. 

Gift of a Servant written by Tamara Amos & illustrated by David W. Luebbert


5.0 out of 5 stars The Spirit of Giving!

Deluxe Heirloom Edition: leather print padded hardcover with gold foil lettering, laminate cover illustration. 
Fully Illustrated.  8.5x11'. 40 pages.
Written by Tamara Amos.  Illustrated by David W. Luebbert
Published in 2013 by Mystical Rose

Cover Description
            A father waits up on Christmas Eve night to demand retirement from the hero of his childhood, Santa Claus. The same saint who used to symbolize Christmas spirit is now plastered on advertisements everywhere, driving shoppers into holiday hysteria!  Dear old Dad makes a mistake, however, by forgetting what every child knows:  When Santa comes in the night with a bag full of surprises, he always leaves the perfect gift.

            Gift of a Servant is a glimpse into the soul of one of the most celebrated and beloved saints of our time.  It is a journey into the heart of his mission to bestow God’s love upon His children, and an invitation to join him on this holy quest.  

            Enter in with an expectant heart to receive the gift Santa Claus has prepared for you!

"A must for any Christian home and people throughout the world!" Readers' Favorite 5 Star Review


About the Author
 Tamara Amos was born July 21, 1976 in Virginia and grew up in many different countries. Over-seas, she taught English as a second language and worked in ministry.  She earned her BA in Theology in 1997 and married Rob Amos in 1998.  They have four children.  She has since worked extensively in the fields of business, education, and ministry, developing programs that incorporate mind-body-soul methodology and creative learning experiences. She specializes in multi-dimensional education and bi-cerebral learning styles, ADD/ADHD advocacy, and holistic healing. She owns and operates Mystical Rose, a company dedicated to cultivating creative talent and inspiring positive solutions for an era of peace through inspirational publishing, products, and services.

With a background in ministry and education, Tamara Amos seeks to bring a fresh perspective to modern issues. Author of Gift of a Servant, a Christmas book to be released October 1, 2013 about the meaning of Santa Claus, she has been featured in newspapers, on talk radio, and as a guest speaker in churches, schools, and organizations.


My Review ~
Gift of a Servant is a poetic narrative that begins with a father's concern over the commercialism of the Christmas season, and his fear that the goodness of Christmas had been forgotten, and had been replaced by selfishness and materialism. His memories of love and generosity from past years are now met with the hysteria of people hurrying about and buying gifts with no regard for Christmas love and holiness. He confronts Santa Claus with accusations of what he has done to ruin Christmas. In reply Santa takes his hand and voices to the father that his concern for the children is not alone. God's concern for the children never wavers and as scenes unfold before him, the father sees the gifts and goodness that are still represented by Santa are a symbol of God who gifts His children with His son, Jesus Christ.

Inspired by a birthday wish made by her father Tamara Amos wrote this beautiful poetic story as an explanation about how people can come to know God through Santa Claus. The parallels between Santa Claus and his gifts to us are a tremendous example of the love of God and his gift to us through His son, Jesus Christ. Children see Santa Claus as the loving saint who spends an entire year preparing special gifts to leave for them each Christmas morning. Our heavenly Father gifts us in much the same way, by giving us His son, Jesus Christ. That giving quality is used to help explain God's grace and shows children how to receive the gifts from God as in receiving gifts from Santa, a servant of God. The illustrations in this book are beautiful and colorful. The author has written a remarkable retelling of Christmas giving through Santa Claus as a servant of God. This book would make a beautiful family gift, and is perfect for youngsters beginning at approximately 8-10 years of age and older. 

Disclaimer: I was given a copy of this book by Mystical Rose, inspirational publishers, in return for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I received no monetary compensation for this review.

Feeling God's Presence Today by Laine Lawson Craft

Great Gift!

Book Description

Begin each day with a sensory experience from God to you! Drawn from the actual word of God each of these 365 daily devotions includes a Scripture verse, inspirational reading, and prayer starter. Discover how you can feel the Presence of God knowing that He can reach you from through all the five senses. This can transform the way you approach life!

About the Author

Laine graduated from Mississippi State University with a B.S. degree. She married Steve Craft in 1987 and they have been blessed with three beautiful children; Steven, Lawson, and Kaylee. She is the founder of WHOA Ministries, WHOA Publishing, Founder of Brown Bag Bible Buddies Ministry, Host of the WHOA Television Talk Show, Speaker, and Author. One night, at the age of 42, Laine was awakened by a dream that changed her forever. She had no way of knowing that her life was about to make a radical, 180 degree, turn. Through this, God would transform her in such a way that she could represent Him, as His mouthpiece, for the rest of her life. Life began to bring about some extremely difficult challenges for Laine which left her more desperate for God than ever before. In 2004, she fell to her knees and asked the Lord to take over her life- everything from her marriage and finances, to her dreams and future. Steve and Laine rededicated their lives in it s entirety to God and He not only transformed them into new creations, He also showed up, showed out, and continues to shower anointing on them daily. Through 23 years of marriage, Laine and Steve have been touched by God on a deep, personal level. They have also experienced a total restoration in their marriage. Together, they enjoy parenting, spending time with family and friends, as well as being outdoors and drinking lots of coffee.

My Review ~

This daily devotional is a high quality, small hardcover book, perfect as a gift, and the just the right size to slip into a purse, tote bag or briefcase. The daily devotions are brief but powerful. Each day's devotion begins with a passage of scripture, a brief lesson in Christian living and focus, ending with a conversational prayer. 

I like the direct approach of this little devotional book. Each of the selected scriptures, the daily application and brief prayers are strong messages to ponder as we begin the day. It's the perfect devotional for people who are busy and yet want to take a few moments to start the day with God's word and prayer.

Disclaimer:  I was given a copy of this book from www.bookfun.org in exchange for my honest review. Thank you to WHOA Women and Fred St. Laurent from The Book Club Network for making this review program possible. 

The Last Waltz - Murray Pura's American Civil War Series - Cry of Freedom, Volume 2, by Murray Pura

5.0 out of 5 stars 24 Hours!

Book Description

150 years ago the history of America changed forever. Live 1863 through the stories of some of our finest writers – the passion, the romance, the tragedy, and the triumph.

Carrie Fancett Pagels. Kathleen Maher. Joy Ross Davis. Sarah Price. Karen Anna Vogel. Patrick E. Craig. Willard Carpenter. Big Daddy Abel. Murray Pura. David Stearman. And many more.

The plantations. The Underground Railroad. Chancellorsville. Vicksburg. Gettysburg. Little Round Top. Chickamauga. Chattanooga. Missionary Ridge. The soldiers in the field. The families at home. The nurses in the hospitals. The speeches at Richmond and Washington. The prayers in churches North and South. It’s all here in one of the most dramatic series ever produced. A new story by a different author released every two weeks between April and November. Join us for one of the most exciting events in American inspirational publishing – Helping Hands Press presents CRY OF FREEDOM!

About the Author

Murray Andrew Pura was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, and has traveled extensively throughout Canada, the United States, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Ordained as a Baptist minister in 1986, Pura has served five churches in Canada and headlined numerous speaking engagements in Canada and the United States. He has five books published, was a contributor to the Life With God Bible, has been a finalist for The Paraclete Fiction Award, The Dartmouth Book Award, and The John Spencer Hill Literary Award, and has been shortlisted for the prestigious 2010 Kobzar Literary Award of Canada.





My Review ~

The Civil War has separated Charity and Mitchell Davis for two long years. In the interim her two sons have gone to war, and her former farm help and close neighbors have fled, leaving her virtually alone. Mitchell was seriously wounded by a bullet through the chest, but he fervently prays for God to grant him just one more day to spend with his beautiful wife. God grants him that request, and his injury heals miraculously, and his strength is restored after being escorted home by his regiment as they travel through the area. Mitchell and Charity spend every moment together as their day is blessed with overtures of love and joy. Scripture is interwoven throughout this story of love that leads to a harmonious dance of interlacing spiritual and pleasurable communion.

Murray Pura chronicles an enticing and poignant moment in time as man and wife take pleasure in every moment possible, weaving spiritual components with the rites of marriage. Poetic and fluent, the narrative is harmonious and musical in quality. Murray creates a succession of ethereal events that evoke a depth of charisma in this novella.  Breathtaking!

Disclaimer: I purchased this ebook with no expectations from the author. My review and all opinions expressed are my own, and I received no monetary compensation for this review.

Search & Rescue, Book 1 (Sal's Place Series) by Marianne Evans

5.0 out of 5 stars Patience Is A Virtue!

Book Description

Holding on for a hero...

Jennifer Foster isn’t one for fairytales. As a source of emotional support for her troubled mother she doesn’t have time. Grounded in the practicality of living day-by-day, the tenderhearted waitress loves to swap food and affection with the regulars at Detroit's legendary diner, Sal’s Place.

When a robbery at the diner sends her life spinning into the capable arms of a Detroit Police office, Ryan Douglas steps to the forefront of her life, whether she's ready to accept his loving care or not. But Ryan contends with his own set of family difficulties and circumstances that just might overwhelm their fledgling relationship.
Will the blending of their lives, and the love they feel, bring about heartbreak, or will God’s ultimate plan be allowed to play out, and bring them both to a point of acceptance, and love’s embrace?

Marianne Evans is an award-winning author of Christian romance and fiction. Her hope is to spread the faith-affirming message of God's love through the stories He prompts her to create. Readers laud her work as: 'Riveting.' 'Realistic and true to heart.' 'Compelling.'

Evans's novel, Hearts Communion, earned Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year honors in the Romance category as well as Inspirational Romance of the Year from the Ancient City Romance chapter of RWA. Evans has also won acclaim in such RWA contests as The Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence where she has been a finalist twice, and the Colorado Romance Writers Award of Excellence.

A lifelong resident of Michigan, Evans is active in a number of a number of Romance Writers of Aneruca chapters, most notably the Greater Detroit Chapter where she served two terms as President. She's also active in American Christian Fiction Writers and the Michigan Literary Network.

For more information, visit her website at: http://www.marianneevans.com or her blog at www.marianneevans.blogspot.com

My Review ~

Jennifer Foster has had to make numerous adjustments in her life. Her mother's bipolar disorder has been costly to her family, and Jennifer was unable to fulfill her dream of becoming a psychologist. In order to keep a roof over her head she works long hours at Sal's place, one of Detroit's favorite diners, and a second job with a cleaning crew. She has insulated herself from close relationships because of her obligations to her family. 

Ryan Douglas is a dedicated and successful Detroit police officer, handsome beyond description. He suffered indescribable pain in the past, as his father, a former Detroit police officer, was paralyzed as a result of a gunshot wound. Ryan's faith has brought him strength and peace, and his relationship with God is his anchor. Jennifer and Ryan become acquainted as Ryan and his partner often stop at Sal's diner at lunchtime. 

This portrayal of a young man and woman who have been victims to tragic circumstances is so beautifully told. Marianne Evans tells a deep and heartfelt story of overcoming obstacles that keep us from loving and from trusting, ourselves, others and God. Marianne's descriptive expertise goes far beyond the norm, detailing a depth of character that is heartwarming and sensitive. Marianne understands the hearts of humans and is intuitive to their emotions, as well as their need for God in their lives.This story is rich with the beauty of attraction and awareness of love, making the reader breathless with emotion and passion for this beautiful couple. Fear, trust, acceptance, persistence, patience, renewed faith, forgiveness, generosity, and love are all encapsulated in this beautiful story of leaving decay in the past and moving forward in love and faith.  

Disclaimer: I was given a PDF copy of this book by the author  in return for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I received no monetary compensation for this review.

Grounded: Book 1 in "The Windy City Neighborhood Series" by Neta Jackson & Dave Jackson

 Heartwarming!

Overview

Grounded

...But Hope May Be Just Across the Street

Grace Meredith is a beloved contemporary Christian recording artist whose career—and personal life—hits unexpected turbulence. She feels grounded—in more ways than one.

Grace's fiancé, bothered by her outspoken stance on purity and her near-constant travel, has broken off their relationship. Exhausted and unable to continue her current concert schedule, Grace returns home to Chicago, where she is soon stranded in a major snowstorm. Facing new questions about her future and her faith, Grace finds herself connecting for the first time with the residents of her neighborhood. What she discovers in these unexpected relationships could change everything.

Welcome to the Neighborhood

The first in the Windy City Neighbors series, Grounded is an uplifting, contemporary story about ordinary people wrestling with the spiritual and practical issues of real life. The series employs the innovative storytelling technique of “parallel novels,” each with its own drama and story arc, but whose characters' lives become intertwined and affect one another. Grounded welcomes you to Beecham Street— a typical, isolated American neighborhood that might just be a place of hope.

dAVE & nETA jACKSON

Husband and wife writing team, Dave and Neta Jackson are authors and/or coauthors of more than one hundred books which have sold in excess of 2.5 million copies. They are best known for Neta’s award-winning Yada Yada series and their Trailblazer Books – a 40-volume series. They live in the Chicago metropolitan area, where Grounded is set.

My Review ~

Grace Meredith has a successful career singing contemporary Christian music. On tour doing her New Year, New You theme for young people, encouraging them to wait for marriage before involvement in intimacy, Grace encounters life-changing experiences. She had hoped her fiance would join her for her last night on tour, to support her in her singing career and her ministry to young people across the country. What she got instead was a broken engagement and disappointment. Although struggling with a sore throat and grief over her broken engagement, Grace forces herself to fulfill her commitment, only to meet with more trauma upon heading home to Chicago. Grace feels like a fraud, encouraging purity to young people and yet carrying a secret that consumed her. Those secrets from her past weighed heavily upon her during a lengthy recuperation from a virus affecting her throat, and the stress accompanying it.

In this first book of a series called Windy City Neighbors, much is revealed regarding secrets held within, and accepting gifts freely given from relative strangers, and from our heavenly Father. Learning to let go and forgive one's self is a strong theme in this story of finding faith in difficult times. God's gift of forgiveness comes freely, but forgiving ourselves can be far more overwhelming. As Grace is encouraged to "think" about her name, she discovers that grace is a gift that comes with no strings attached. Grace is what brings us through times of trouble and gifts us with freedom from our past sins.

I enjoyed this warmhearted story of discernment, forgiveness not only of others, but forgiveness of self, and learning to accept the gift of grace that is offered freely when our hearts are open to receiving it. In our fast-paced lives we tend to spend less time increasing growth in our faith lives, and the authors of Grounded have presented positive examples of renewing our spiritual lives through time spent in the Word, in prayer and through grace. 

Disclaimer: I was given a copy of this book by Wynn-Wynn Media in return for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I received no monetary compensation for this review.

Interview with Marianne Evans & GIVEAWAY of 1 copy of "Devotion!"

From This Day Forward
Christian Music agent Kellen Rossiter has everything he ever wanted: A-list clients from coast to coast, a loving wife who honors and respects him, and a faith life that’s never wavered—until now.

Juliet Rossiter has the perfect life: a rewarding schedule serving the underprivileged, a husband who loves her as Christ loved the church, and a blessed future as a mother—at least that's what she thinks.

For Better or Worse
But what happens when their rock-solid marriage begins to crumble under the weight of an unexpected and powerful temptation?  How does love survive when its foundation is shaken?

'Til Death Do Us Part
When human frailty and the allure of sin deal a harsh blow to their relationship, it will take more than love to mend the shattered trust and heartbreak. It will take a lifetime of devotion.

About this author
Marianne Evans is an award winning author of Christian romance and fiction. Her hope is to spread the faith-affirming message of God’s love through the stories she creates. Her career began when Kensington Publishing purchased her book, Friends & Lovers. Her second offering, Right Hand Man, followed shortly thereafter. Her third release from Kensington, Hannah’s Heart, won critical acclaim from reviewers and in the local media. 
Her fourth book marked her inspirational romance debut at White Rose Publishing – an award winning novel entitled Hearts Crossing. Hearts Crossing led to the creation of the four-book Woodland Series. The Woodland church romances center around the parishioners of a lakeside church located in suburban Detroit. Evans has tackled the topic of a loving marriage fallen into turmoil in her Christian fiction debut, Devotion from Harbourlight Books.
A lifelong resident of Michigan, Marianne is an active member of Romance Writers of America. She’s a long-time member of Greater Detroit RWA where she served the chapter most notably as Chapter Treasurer and two terms as Chapter President. She also belongs to the Faith Hope and Love chapter of RWA, American Christian Fiction Writers, Mid-Michigan RWA and the Michigan Literary Network.

Connect with Marianne at www.marianneevans.com or www.marianneevans.blogspot.com

Interview ~

I'm so happy to have had this opportunity to ask Marianne Evans a few questions about herself and her writing. She's a wonderful and very talented author, and has become very dear to me. 

1. Tell me a little bit about how you got started as an author.

I earned my start as an author by torturing my friends. No, I'm serious! There I was, in pre-algebra and science classes, detesting every equation and experiment because I'm completely and totally not a math and science girl. My mind would wander, and stories would evolve. Characters would speak. Romances were born. Yes, even back then I had a soft spot for the genre. I began writing stories, longhand, and a friend of mine asked to read them. And they told two friends, and they told two friends, and so on, and so on. Pretty soon math and science took a back seat to English and creative writing.

And, little did I know, but, back then I was laying the groundwork for how I'm marketing here and now in the techno-age. In so many ways, I feel like that's what I'm doing now, responding to interest from readers, and hoping to keep spreading the word about stories that uplift and affirm people's hope and faith!

2. How long have you been writing, and what was your first book?

In a professional sense I've been a published author since July 26, 1996--that's when I received 'the call' from Kensington Publishing that my book Friends & Lovers had been contracted. What a thrill! Best part was, we were heading away from home that day, to spend a weekend with my parents at their home in northern Michigan. On our way to their house that evening, a large and vivid rainbow painted the sky! 

3. Where did you receive your inspiration for "Devotion?"

Wow. Great question. So many factors influenced the creation of this book. First, I "met" KellenRossiter in the book Hearts Key which is the final installment of my Woodland Series from Pelican Book Group. I instantly fell in love with him, and his wife Juliet. Kellen is successful, edgy, driven and charismatic, but all of that is tempered by his deep faith and his love for Juliet. God created an itch in my heart to tell their story, but once He revealed its details to me--once the issue of adultery came to life as the story arc and conflict, I'll be blunt. I looked upward, took a deep breath, and said, "God, are you sure? I don't know if I can do this..." What I've discovered, though, is a hunger in readers for stories just like Devotion. Stories that show Christians as human, as fallible, but always growing and always redeemed by God's power and grace. We love, we have joy, we sin and we fail. It's part of who we are as human beings, and exploring all those nuances within the context of a long-term marital relationship was an awesome journey to take as a writer!

4. Do you find your own personality comes through in your fictional characters? 

Not really. My 'voice' as an author comes through in my writing, so I think who I am certainly adds a texture to the stories I've created, but the personality of my books comes straight from the characters, and from the fact that I live with them and feel them in my heart. Therefore, another admission: it's so bittersweet to reach the conclusion of a book!

5. What is your favorite verse from the bible, or favorite book in the bible? 

I adore the Book of Ruth, and absolutely love Proverbs 3:5-6: 'Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him and He will make your paths straight.'

6. What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? 

Writing. Seriously! It sounds like tunnel vision, but free time is a precious commodity to begin with, so when I have any ounce of time available you'll find me happily snuggled beneath a blanket with my lap top whirring. Or, in the summer, you might catch me on our deck, seated on the glider with a note pad and pen. I simply love creating stories of hope, love, faith and redemption.

***Marianne, thank you so much for taking the time to answer the above questions in order that your readers might come to know you better. It's been such a pleasure getting to know you, and having the opportunity to read and review several of your books. God has blessed you with a wonderful gift for writing books that glorify Him and teach godly principals in your messages. God bless you, and I look forward to working with you in the future! Thank you also for offering a copy of your book, "Devotion," for this contest!

CONTEST DETAILS: 

To qualify for an opportunity to win a copy of Marianne Evans' book "Devotion," please leave a comment below, and leave your email address in the following format: janedoe[at]yahoo[dot]com, so that I can contact the winner of this contest. Also please take the time to "like" Marianne's author page at: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Marianne-Evans/308711716744?fref=ts and take some time to check out her other books. You won't be disappointed! Thanks for taking the time to visit my blog!

Firefly Island by Lisa Wingate

 Unexpected Circumstances!

Book Description

        Lisa Wingate Is a Top Name in Inspirational Contemporary Romance 

At thirty-four, congressional staffer Mallory Hale is about to embark on an adventure completely off the map. After a whirlwind romance, she is hopelessly in love with two men--fortunately, they're related. Daniel Everson and his little boy, Nick, are a package deal, and Mallory suddenly can't imagine her future without them.

Mallory couldn't be more shocked when Daniel asks her to marry him, move to Texas, and form a family with him and motherless Nick. The idea is both thrilling and terrifying.

Mallory takes a leap of faith and begins a sweet, mishap-filled journey into ranch living, Moses Lake society, and a marriage that at times reminds her of the mail-order-bride stories. But despite the wild adventure of her new life, she discovers secrets and questions beneath her rosy new life. Can she find answers on Firefly Island, a little chunk of property just off the lake shore, where mysterious lights glisten at night?

Biography

Lisa Wingate is a magazine columnist, inspirational speaker, and the author of a host of mainstream fiction novels, including the national bestseller, Tending Roses, which is currently in its fourteenth reprint. Her books have been featured selections for Doubleday and Literary Guild book clubs, selected for The Reader's Club of America, and have garnered LORIES Best Fiction and Reader's Choice Awards, and been nominated for the ACFW Book of the Year Award. Recently, the group Americans for More Civility, a kindness watchdog organization, selected Lisa along with Bill Ford, Camille Cosby, and six others, as recipients of the National Civies Award, which celebrates public figures who work to promote greater kindness and civility in American life. Lisa loves sharing with readers via Facebook, YouTube, and her website. More information about Lisa's novels can be found at www.Lisawingate.com


My Review ~

Mallory Hale has experienced adventure in her life, but love at first sight propels her into a whirlwind romance with Daniel Everson and his 4-year-old son. Leaving her home and family in Washington, DC to live on a remote ranch in Moses Lake, Texas, Mallory questions her sanity. Daniel's boss, Jack West, has a questionable past with rumors of murder. Numerous questions and fears arise regarding their safety in this new and remote location. Life will never be the same for the Everson family as they are plummeted into a dramatically changing lifestyle. As Daniel spends long hours with his new employer Mallory finds herself isolated and resentful. She develops a friendship with a rather eccentric character who introduces her to some rather bizarre experiences. Suspense heightens as events create serious concerns about what might be occurring on Firefly Island where unexplained lights glow in the dark of night. Mallory's dreams turn into nightmares as mysterious events outweigh any sense of normalcy for this young family.

"Firefly Island" is filled with adventure, romance, and suspense. There are numerous unexpected events and colorful characters in this story of  uncertainty and radical changes regarding not only physical location, but changes in character. Mallory is suddenly a wife and mother to a 4-year-old son, which throws her off balance but she has a strong constitution and ability to change with the situations. Questioning whether her life is in God's hands and the events surrounding her are just a part of a larger plan, Mallory's character evolves into a more purposeful existence. Acceptance and resolution are important aspects in this story. 

Lisa Wingate is a new author to me, and I'm impressed with her talents as an author. I will definitely read the prequels to "Firefly Island." I found this suspense-filled, delightful story to be highly entertaining, and found it difficult to put down. The story moved swiftly and contained unexpected events that kept me up late at night! I highly recommend this author and "Firefly Island." if you're interested in a thrill ride in remote Moses Lake, Texas.

Disclaimer: I was given a copy of this book from www.bookfun.org in exchange for my honest review. Thank you to Bethany House and Fred St. Laurent from The Book Club Network for making this review program possible.