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Thursday, December 16, 2010

HOMELESSNESS AT CHRISTMAS TIMES




Let's remember those who do not have a home at Christmas.
Let's remember those who do not have a coat and a thick blanket to keep them warm.
Let's remember those who do not have any money to buy food or a hot drink to fill their bellies.
Let's remember those who do not have a hot shower to clean themselves;
Let's remember those who do not have any clothes to keep them warm.
Let's remember those who do not have a friend to encourage them to carry on.
Let's remember those who do not have a family to wish them "merry Christmas and happy new year".

Jesus can help the homeless through your generosity and your gratefulness.

Let's be grateful to God that we have a job, even if it is a part-time job,
Let's be grateful to God that we have a home, food on the table and a warm bed.
Let's be grateful to God that we have a family to support us and help us in times of needs;
Let's be grateful to God that we would be celebrating Christmas with our loved ones.
Most importantly, let's be grateful that we know Jesus, that he cares and loves us by giving us
all of those things above.

When you see a homeless person that is hungry, buy them some food, even if it is a sandwich or a pack of
crisps, that will give them a meal.
When you see a homeless person that is thirsty, buy them a drink who will quench their thirst or a hot drink to
keep them warm.


<< Matthew 25 >>
New American Standard Bible
35‘For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in; 36naked, and you clothed Me; I was sick, and you visited Me; I was in prison, and you came to Me.’ 37“Then the righteous will answer Him, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry, and feed You, or thirsty, and give You something to drink? 38‘And when did we see You a stranger, and invite You in, or naked, and clothe You? 39‘When did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ 40“The King will answer and say to them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it to one of these brothers of Mine, even the least of them, you did it to Me.’
41“Then He will also say to those on His left, ‘Depart from Me, accursed ones, into the eternal fire which has been prepared for the devil and his angels; 42for I was hungry, and you gave Me nothing to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me nothing to drink; 43I was a stranger, and you did not invite Me in; naked, and you did not clothe Me; sick, and in prison, and you did not visit Me.’ 44“Then they themselves also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry, or thirsty, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not take care of You?’ 45“Then He will answer them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.’ 46“These will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”

I'm not a person that do all those things all the times, but, I can only try our best. It is a good feeling when we help those people in need because we give thanks to God for what he has given us. It is Christmas time and a good time to remember those who will die of cold and hunger because we turned our backs on them. We all have a sinful past so let us stop our selfishness and our silly judgement. Let us give to the homeless without judgement, in the name of Jesus. That is called doing the work of God.

God bless you all and Merry Christmas.

Sana Edoja

http://sanaedoja.wordpress.com/home-page-my-book-called-knowing-god/

Saturday, December 11, 2010

Inspirational Jewels

Listen to internet radio with Inspirational Jewels on Blog Talk Radio

April Gardner discusses Wounded Spirits, an Amazon Best-Seller, the John 3:16 Marketing Network, and More

I would like to introduce April Gardner. April is a gifted writer with a wonderful personality that shines through in her writing. I met April on Facebook and approached her shortly after starting the John 3:16 Marketing Network. It was with much fear and trepidation that I initially asked people to join. Luckily for me, April took me up on my offer; and for that I am grateful. She has been a tremendous asset to the John 3:16 Marketing Network, paving the way for others to follow in her footsteps. I share this short interview with April, which speaks to our hearts as each of us longs to write a best-seller on Amazon.

1    What motivated you to become a writer?

There was a story that needed to be told. I came across the lives of the Creek Indians and the McGirths on the pages of history books and felt a burning need to know these people better, to understand how they might have reacted and dealt with the circumstances thrust upon them. There’s a certain mysterious and regal quality to our country’s Natives that lures me in. They had nearly perfected the true sense of community, selflessness, and passion. I just needed to live in their moccasins for a while.

2    How do you write fiction -- do you outline or fly by the spirit? Do you pick your characters out of thin air, or base them on people you know? And how did you create the historical setting of Wounded Spirits? Did you have to do lots of research or are you a history buff?

I tried writing “by the seat of my pants.” Once. Nope, it’s not for me. I’m a detailed plotter. I build my characters based on what I need them to accomplish in the plot. Adela, for instance, needed to find it relatively easy to forgive some pretty unforgiveable deeds. So I made her a people-pleaser. When a wrong was done against her, she automatically found a way it might have been her own fault. The historical setting for Wounded Sprits was practically created for me. Pickett’s History of Alabama is one of the most interesting history books you’ll ever read. It’s almost written in story-form. Since Pickett interviewed many survivors of the Creek War, he was able to color the pages with amazing descriptions of the people and places found in Wounded Spirits. He made my research rather easy. Thank you Mr. Pickett!

3    You reached number one status in Christian fiction as a brand-new author on the day of your public launch. Please share with others how you accomplished such an incredible feat!

All the glory goes to God. He worked out the details and brought everything together at the last minute. Until a month ago I really didn’t understand the premise behind the John 3:16 Marketing Network. Looking back, it’s simple. Get everyone you can to buy the book on one certain day and the book’s Amazon ranking will rise—to #1, Lord willing. Offering e-gifts to everyone buying the book was key, which is why gathering supporters willing to donate a gift is so vital. At the John 3:16 Marketing Network, the support system is already in place. All an author has to do is ask for help and it’s there.

To make it seem less overwhelming, consider this. It doesn’t take much to start rising in rank. Four (known) sales the evening before the launch took Wounded Spirits from #800,000 (in Amazon Books) to #62,000. Creating specific subcategories for a book is essential. (“Historical” under “Christian fiction” under “fiction,” for example.) In the historical fiction category, Wounded Spirits competed against a much smaller number than under “fiction” which is what my book was originally categorized under. By 10am, Wounded Spirits had reached #1 in that sub-subcategory. A few hours later, the book reached #1 in Christian fiction which is a larger subcategory but not as large as “fiction.” It reached #2096 in books, which is excellent. One thousand more would have been even better, but I’m not complaining. J

I have no idea how many books actually sold, but does it matter? Not really, because the goal was “best seller status” not “X number of copies sold.”

Two days later I’m still rather numb. It was certainly the highlight of my career so far. Yes, I now possess the title Best-Selling Author, but it was the incredible show of support from people who loved me and were rooting for me that brings tears to my eyes, even now. Acquaintances old and new turned out in droves to buy the book and cheer me on. It’s THEM I have to thank for my new title; and the Lord who somehow, amazingly, found me worthy of it.

I cannot say enough for the John 3:16 Marketing Network. It was a concept I struggled with for a good while, but once it clicked, I knew it would work. Its founder, Lorilyn Roberts, is amazing. She was there for me every step of the way, guiding me and cheering me on. Joining is free, so I encourage any author wanting to see their book sales go further to hop on board and see if this might not be the place for them. I’m betting it is!

4. Can you give us just a tiny peek into your upcoming next book?

            The next book, Warring Spirits, picks up four years after the war. The Creek are struggling to get back on their feet after being nearly decimated, and Lillian McGirth finds herself confronted with her own horrible life choices. To quote my editor “it’s a love pentagon” you won’t want to miss. The war for land might be over, but the war in their spirits has just begun!

Anyone wishing to learn more about or join the John 3:16 Marketing Network should visit  http://john316mn.blogspot.com/2010/11/become-best-selling-author.html. You need to hurry, though. New memberships will close on December 12 and won’t reopen again until the spring.
           

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Christmas Cards from the DRIVEN Gang


Thanks to Amazon's latest ebook offer, you can gift an ebook to anyone who has an email address. And they do NOT have to own a kindle to read the book. Amazon has offered a variety of FREE reading apps for use with their ebooks. What a great and inexpensive way to gift books! Here's the thing. I love to gift wrap a little something and set it under the tree for my family and friends even if it's a gift card. But, how do you wrap an ebook?

Well, you can't really, but here's a fun work-a-round. If you purchase an ebook of DRIVEN or pre-order the paperback before December 18, 2010, I'll send you (or the person you are giving the book to) a Christmas card from the DRIVEN gang. Just click on the Christmas Card page and fill out the information survey. Now, you'll have something to put under that tree.

Merry Christmas, Everyone!


Wednesday, December 1, 2010

WOUNDED SPIRITS -- NEW RELEASE



Wounded Spirits
By April W. Gardner
AWESOME NEW RELEASE on AMAZON
Tuesday, December  7


Forbidden love during war! Historical setting!
“The characters will grip your heart; the story will seize your mind...”

Rosanna White
Christian Review of Books

Lives molded by the course of history, can these Wounded Spirits learn to rely on God's grace during one of the bloodiest conflicts in the South?

BUY ON TUESDAY, DECEMBER 7 and receive…
FREE E-GIFTS FROM THE AUTHOR—

Every buyer receives a PDF of the first chapter of the sequel Warring Spirits PLUS a signed book plate mailed straight to you.


April Gardner has been a military brat, missionary's kid, and military spouse. After 21 years in various countries overseas, April happily resides in Georgia with her USAF husband. A homeschool mom, she fills her mornings talking fractions and phonics with her two sweet kiddos. In her free time, April enjoys reading, gardening, and DIY. In no particular order, she dreams of owning a horse, visiting all the national parks, and speaking Italian.

Librarian, reviewer, and avid reader, April adores anything books. She writes a weekly column for the joint blog, Reflections in Hindsight, and is the founder and senior editor of the website, Clash of the Titles.

April loves to hear from her readers at: aprilgardnerwrites@gmail.com


WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING ABOUT WOUNDED SPIRITS—

“This is a solid debut from Ms. Gardner, one that demonstrates not only her skill with words, but her insight into the human condition. The characters will grip your heart, the story will seize your mind, and the hope at the end will leave you with the surety that your God is bigger than any human troubles.”
Rosanna White
Christian Review of Books



"Historical fiction, if done right, has the ability to slip a reader into another time and another place. In Wounded Spirits, April Gardner has skillfully blended research with fiction to create a story that entertains and educates. Main character Adela McGirth finds herself straddling two worlds—one as a dutiful daughter, the other as a woman in love with the man who saved her life—a Native American. Wounded Spirits has something for everyone: forbidden love and romance, brutal war scenes, sacrificial love, history of the 19th century, and a faith that triumphs over adversity. This is a debut novel to remember.”
Suzanne Woods Fisher
Bestselling Author of The Choice


BUY ON TUESDAY, DECEMBER 7, And receive…
FREE E-GIFTS FROM NETWORK PARTNERS!

1. Faith and Temperaments by author Ray Lincoln. Pdf adapted and expanded from Ray W. Lincoln’s next book, The Real You -- Your Blueprint to Excellence.

2. The Donkey and the King, an eBook by author Lorilyn Roberts. A Christian redemption story where a donkey named Baruch longs for an easier life beyond the stable. He dreams of a life with no heavy burdens and no one to tell him what to do. Children will love looking for the hidden word “good” on every page!

3. Two Small Fish children’s greeting cards. Set of nine.

All these gifts (and much more!) will be yours by purchasing Wounded Spirits on Tuesday, December 7, from Amazon.com. More details to follow.


Thursday, November 25, 2010

Faith, Football and a Season to Believe.........

Review : Remember Why you Play ? Faith, Football and a Season to Believe- David Thomas - October 2010

Who enjoys films like Gridiron Gang , Forever Strong , The Longest Yard and TV Shows like Friday Night Lights ? . Remember Why you Play ? is for all those fans of the above inspirational though Longest Yard is a tad more comical movies. Remember Why you Play? takes us on a journey back to the year November 2008 when Faith Christian School opened their hearts and home base up to the lives of those at Gainesville State School - a maxi security correctional facility.
As we know by watching the movies , it starts with a coach at the correctional facility trying to give their boys something to work for and a rewarding experience of working as a team.  In November 2008, the season of Football was finishing up , when Kris Hogan of Faith Christian School had an idea , why not invite the Gainesville Correctional school to play against their team the Tornadoes. For Gainesville , they had never ever won a game or scored rarely a touchdown and in this final game , they scored two touchdowns. Though this isn't what makes Remember Why you Play? such a touching story that in the end had my eyes watering. It was the fact that the coach Kris Hogan had organised half of his Tornadoes families and fans to sit on the benches for the team of Gainesville and cheer for them. For most of the kids on the team, they had never had anyone encourage them or praise them using their own names , some never had any encouragement.
This tale is so inspiring and it goes to show that a little effort can make a huge difference in somebody else's life even if we don't realise the huge impact.
Review Copy obtained from Tyndale Publishers

Monday, November 15, 2010

BECOME A BEST-SELLING AUTHOR!


BECOME A BEST-SELLING AUTHOR!
JOIN THE JOHN 3:16 MARKETING NETWORK TODAY!

Holiday Membership Drive
FREE Christmas Gift Basket of Books
VALUE $100!
November 16 to December 13 ONLY

FREE BOOKS! FREE CHRISTMAS BASKET!
STARBUCKS MUG, COFFEE
AND
SURPRISE IN CUP!
(see picture below)

 

INTERESTED?


The John 3:16 Marketing Network is hosting its first
Christmas Basket of Books Membership Drawing

What do I do to enter?

 
Check out the John 3:16 Marketing Network blog TODAY. Anyone who FOLLOWS us at http://john316mn.blogspot.com/
 will be entered in a drawing for THREE FREE BOOKS displayed in a uniquely-made, hand-crafted basket!
If you are only following us and not joining us, please email me your name after following us at llwroberts@cox.net. I want to make sure I receive your name to enter you into the drawing. If you JOIN, please also follow us so you can be entered twice.

 “What do I have to do to become a member?”

The Only Requirements Are:

You believe in John 3:16
You have a blog or website
You read the John 3:16 Marketing Network information at http://www.lorilynroberts.com/john_3_16_marketing_network.html

AFTER CLICKING ON LINK, FILL OUT THE FORM WITH YOUR NAME AND EMAIL AT TOP OF PAGE TO JOIN!


The John 3:16 Marketing Network currently has over seventy members and we expect to hit two hundred when word gets out about our success. We have revolutionized an old marketing strategy and given it a Christian spin.

WHAT DOES THE JOHN 3:16 MARKETING NETWORK DO?

Don’t have an author platform? We can help. Want to be called a best-selling author on Amazon? No problem. Prefer Barnes & Noble. We’ve got you covered. Want your book blasted on dozens of social networking sites? We do that. Want your book advertised on Twitter and Facebook dozens of times? That’s easy. Want an interview of yourself discussing your book—featured on multiple guest blogs? Just let us know. Want your book quickly reviewed and reviews posted on Amazon and other websites? We love doing that. Want your book announced via email to hundreds? Want to see your rankings soar? Want your book exposed to thousands of potential buyers? Want to give your potential buyer a reason to buy your book TODAY and not tomorrow or never? Want to be able to give free e-gifts with your book for added value? Want to share your excitement with other authors? You have come to the right place. The secret to launching best-selling books—we know how to make it happen!

Interested?

KEEP READING!

How much do you think you would pay to get all of this exposure on your own? THOUSANDS! How much does it cost if you are a member of the John 3:16 Marketing Network? Absolutely nothing! What does it cost to join? Zilch!

Have questions? Don’t believe me?


But Wait! There is More! And It’s FREE!

IF YOU FOLLOW OUR BLOG OR JOIN OUR NETWORK TODAY!

CHRISTMAS GIFT BASKET OF BOOKS

Baskets by Monica has donated the wooden, hand-made specialty basket to beautifully display our author books for the drawing. Visit
to see Christmas gift baskets extravaganza! Have an unusual idea for that special person in your life – Baskets by Monica creates unique, one-of-a-kind baskets that can’t be found anywhere else!




FREE BOOKS!

Select Books For Our First Free Gift Basket

Paradise Grows, by Dr. Robert E. McGinnis
Enjoy Your Money, by J. Steve Miller
Children of Dreams, by Lorilyn Roberts


MEET THREE OF THE JOHN 3:16 NETWORK AUTHORS
AND READ THEIR BOOKS!


Dr. Robert E. McGinnis
Paradise Grows
Kids read so much garbage these days, how about a YA book with clean language, no sex, or extreme violence. This book has adventures galore, and teaches values for life. The newest series that both parents and kids will love! Joy Roberts calls Dr. McGinnis’ Books “Fun and Thrilling to Read!”
Don't miss this chance to get your free copy in our
Christmas Gift Basket Drawing!



J. Steve Miller
Enjoy Your Money!
Learn about famous people and how they succeeded or failed with their careers and money, such as the manager for LED ZEPPELIN, MARK TWAIN, THOMAS JEFFERSON, SAM WALTON, and football coach JOE GIBBS!
Don't miss this chance to get your free copy in our
Christmas Gift Basket Drawing!




Lorilyn Roberts
Children of Dreams
Part confession, part adventure, and part memoir, Lorilyn weaves a masterful story of love and forgiveness. If you want inspiration, Children of Dreams will not disappoint.
Don't miss this chance to get your free copy in our
Christmas Gift Basket Drawing!
JOIN THE JOHN 3:16 MARKETING NETWORK TODAY AND ENTER YOUR NAME IN THE DRAWING FOR A FREE BASKET OF BOOKS


CLICK ON LINK, FILL OUT THE FORM WITH YOUR NAME AND EMAIL TO JOIN!

Last chance to join until next membership drive in April of next year! 


Thursday, November 4, 2010

Book Launch of Knowing God, by Sana Edoja, from Friday to Sunday 10am EST




Knowing God


Sana Edoja


Don’t forget, Friday, November 5, is the big day to order Knowing God and receive lots of free gifts. To purchase your copy on Friday, click or paste this link on your browser: 
http://www.amazon.com/Knowing-God-0-Sana-Edoja/dp/1419650629/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1288187675&sr=8-1
To receive you free gift after you have purchased your book, please email your order number from amazon to the following email address:

Email:
sana.edoja@yahoo.fr
Biography of Sana Edoja:
Born in the south of France, the eldest of a family of five children, my origins are French and Moroccan. From the age of thirteen, my favourite hobby was writing French poems and songs.
I initially pursued a degree in business administration, but a few years later developed a strong desire to sing.  Unfortunately, circumstances didn’t allow me to pursue this promising career.
In 1995, I came to the United Kingdom to improve my English. Struggling to make a living while in the UK, my life turned around when I believed and was baptized into Christ Jesus, confessing Him as my Lord and Saviour. I saw the power of God at work in my life.
It was this experience that motivated me to write my first book “Knowing God”, which I believe will help those who are seeking God to get a better understanding of the riches of the Kingdom of God.

To see all the free e-gifts you will receive click on the link below:
“Knowing God” can be very challenging in the world we are living in today, especially with the circumstances of life shown to us by the media.
I have written this book with the clear intention and determination to help those who are looking for the truth to have a better understanding of God as the Bible intends.
There is nothing more beautiful and exciting than having a wonderful relationship with our loving God.  His powerful Word promises us that if we seek Him, we will find Him.
“You will seek Me and find Me; when you seek Me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13).
My personal experience with God motivated me to share with you what God has revealed to me about His character.
I will also share with you how you can develop a personal relationship with a wonderful Saviour; how your needs can be met and how you can live in righteousness through the power of the Word of God in a practical and conventional way.
I pray that this book will be a source of encouragement and enlightenment to those who are seeking God and want to know Him in a much deeper way.
May God bless you all forever and ever.
Sana Edoja
Help me achieve best-seller status by buying from Amazon.com on November 5.


Reviewed By: Janice S Ramkissoon from Write2Shine:
“Knowing God” is a collection of articles, forming an introductory-style, Bible study guide. The author’s aim is to help others understand that “There is nothing more beautiful and exciting than having a wonderful relationship with a loving God.” And in order to bring this point across, Sana Edoja has chosen topics that are likely to affect individuals who haven’t yet come into a relationship with Christ.
The book is broken down into different headings, based on the title of the articles. The reader can, therefore, choose topics of interest and be able to have easy access to Bible references dealing with that particular aspect of his life.  Sana also urges readers to heed Paul’s advice according to Acts 17:11 as they study this book: “Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures everyday to see if what Paul said was true.”
I believe the message that the author would most like to drive home is found in article 17, in its title: “We have authority and victory over the enemy through Christ.” In this article, Sana reminds us to focus on Christ. Using the scene of Matthew 4:6, she reminds her readers that the devil also knows Scriptures and that “there is no greater lie than one that’s mixed with truth.” For this reason she urges readers to Focus on God, for “when we know the word of God like Jesus did (2000 years ago) and confess the Scriptures throughout our life, using them to combat the lies of Satan…” We will win the battle.
The author shares her experience in little bite sizes particularly, in article 33: “God has given us free will,” and others such as “Overcoming Temptation” and “Sexual Immorality” relating the practical side of what takes place when one does not focus on Christ.  Having found Christ we are now responsible; so article 40 is fitting towards the end of the book as she asks the question: “Are you fit to be God’s disciple?” 

Sana once enjoyed “clubbing on weekends”.  Having found Christ, she lost interest both in that hobby as well as in the music. “I found that clubbing and worldly music were doorways for sin…” listing a few of these sins as “lust, violence, drugs, sex and alcohol” and points out that “they don’t satisfy the craving needs of our souls for love.” And so it is important to not conform to the ways of this world as article 41 highlights.
My recommendations, in order to get the best out of this book, would be to treat it as a reference guide rather than a book you sit down and read from cover to cover.  It would be a great gift for a new-born believer, to help towards spiritual growth.
                           …………………………………………………………………………….
KNOWING GOD by Christian author SANA EDOJA:  A 5-Star review for this 144-page, encouraging and enlightening book; well- presented content and context, with a well defined cover. A book to consider when gift buying – in any season. Top marks to this very able author, Sana. God bless.
Review contributed by Eliza Earsman, author of Days of Elijah (Revised): A True Story (232 pages) and also A Collection of Verse – 108 pages nonfiction.

Don’t forget, Friday, November 5, is the big day to order and receive lots of free gifts. To purchase your copy on Friday, click or paste this link on your browser: 
http://www.amazon.com/Knowing-God-0-Sana-Edoja/dp/1419650629/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1288187675&sr=8-1
To receive you free gift after you have purchased your book, please email your order number from amazon to the following email address:

Email:
sana.edoja@yahoo.fr

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Basket of Books for the John 3:16 Network Christmas Drawing on December 12


We are celebrating the John 3:16 Network with a drawing for a free "Basket of Books for Christmas."  Check back next week to see what books we are offering for those who join the Network between November 15 and December 12.  And there will be other little goodies that are a secret!  Get the word out.  To learn more about the Network, you can visit http://www.lorilynroberts.com/john_3_16_marketing_network.html.

Let us know who referred you!

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Some Opportunities for Books

Hi Everyone!

I wanted to give you a heads up to two contests that pubbed authors might be interested in:

BOOK COVER AWARDS: This is a monthly cover contest with easy submission criteria. You can check it out at http://thenewcoveycoverawards.blogspot.com

SMALL PUBLISHER BOOK AWARD: If your print book (not ebook) was released in 2009 or 2010, and you were published by a small press with $400,000 annual revenue or less, you are eligible to enter a competition for the Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year Award. There is a $40 entrance fee. THE DEADLINE FOR ENTERING IS NOVEMBER 15 2010. You can read more at http://www.christianpublishers.net/

*

Lorilyn, thanks for putting this group together! I look forward to e-meeting many of you on this loop. I have one pubbed novel: A LEVER LONG ENOUGH, about a small military team that travels back in time to film the theft of Jesus' body from the tomb. I'm pleased to announce that just this morning I found out I'm a finalist for EPIC's annual e-book publishing contest, out of a field of almost 500. (I don't know how many finalists were selected). The winner will be announced in March 2011, so I'll keep you posted. My new e-book about writing and pubbing (including how to publish on Kindle without knowing HTML) will be released in January 2011. I'm planning to participate in National Novel Writing Month so if you're on board, let me know so we can be *buddies!*

Monday, October 18, 2010

Opportunity

I know what I'll insist upon in any new contracts I garner. I am learning a lot! Thanks, all.

Another opportunity I want everyone to be aware of take part in is at http://clashofthetitles.com/ which debuts this week. The girls have gone overboard to get some great endorsements, so we're already off to a good start. Please submit your own book excerpts according to the submission guidelines.

Saturday, October 16, 2010

And The Beat Goes On : An Edgy Christian Novel.



                           
Review - And The Beat Goes On - Tracy. L. Kraus - 2009

An Archaeologist is always an occupation that I have thought to be interesting and intriguing ,imagine digging through the earth to uncover amazing artifacts, relics of history. However, you would need to have a love of dirt to thoroughly enjoy the occupation and a love of being out in the heat as sometimes the digs can take hours , though it would be an easy way to get a nice tan. Whenever I see the words Archaeologist , it reminds me of the quote from the Mummy Movie "I may not be an Adventurer , I may not be an Archaeologist , but I'm a Librarian"- I love this and am going to get it printed on a Tshirt eventually due to being a librarian myself.
Whilst digging in the mountains of Zimbabwe in Africa , Canadian Archaeologist Mark Graham finds a set of bones that he believes are in fact dinosaur bones more to the point "fossilised remains of the Pterodactyls". However hoping to uncover more dinosaur bones , Mark and his team are surprised that in fact they have found what closely resembles gigantic human remains - bones of course.
As the story gets on , the bones are soon to be speculated as being those of a Nephilim , a pre-flood race of people whom were supposed to be descended from both Gods and Men ,like those on the movie Percy Jackson and Fallen starring the cute Paul Wesley aka Stefan from The Vampire Diaries.
Due to the Archaeologist's teams skepticism , they find that their dig site has been sabotaged which results in both their discoveries and lives in danger.
We read as Mark must discover who is at the bottom of this and figure out a way to safeguard his findings and even more his reputation in order to protect the bones and help back up evidence to solve the mystery behind the Nephilim.
Reviewed by Paula Phillips
ARC recieved from Tracy Kraus.

Good Job!

Congratulations to the Lincoln's on the launch of their book I'M A KEEPER. I know it constituted hours and hours and hours (did I say HOURS?) of work and hopefully it paid off. They gave us a wonderful model and some great 'how-to' examples in everything from organization to networking. The question now remains for the rest of us who are part of this network - are we willing to put in this same kind of effort in order to launch our own books?

I am not sure I have that same kind of know-how, author base, or time. However, I would be willing to try something on a smaller scale, perhaps. The re-release of my novel AND THE BEAT GOES ON as a paperback is eminent, and my second novel MY MOTHER THE MAN EATER is due to release before Christmas. Neither of the dates are firm yet, but rest assured I will be calling on all my good friends at John 3:16 when that time comes. Blessings!

Monday, October 4, 2010

Meet Ray Lincoln, Author of I’M A KEEPER, available October 5 at Amazon.com!



I would like to do introduce you to Ray W. Lincoln.   

Ray Lincoln is founder of Ray W. Lincoln & Associates and Ray Lincoln Ministries. His services include Christian life coaching; professional coaching; seminars on parenting, marriage, personal development, and more.


He is the author of I’M A KEEPER, a book that is being used in seven countries and is receiving rave reviews from parents, teachers and psychologists. It teaches parents the most important skill they must have for successful parenting: how to understand your child.

Ray is originally from New Zealand. He has worked professionally in New Zealand and Australia, and he has been in the USA since 1971 because he met Mary Jo in Texas and decided to stay.

He has over 40 years of experience in coaching and counseling as a pastor. His earned degrees include a PhD in the Philosophy of Religion, a Master of Divinity, and more. He has a master’s level of training in Psychology, which has been a passion of his for many years, as he applied a biblical interpretation (rather than a secular one) to Temperament Psychology and found that this approach is, as expected, much more effective.

He lives in Littleton, Colorado with Mary Jo, where they enjoy hiking, fly fishing, snowshoeing, and all the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Ray also enjoys oil painting and photography as hobbies in his “less active” moments.


Ray will be launching his newest book, I’M A KEEPER, on October 5. He is one of the authors in the John 3:16 Marketing Network. I hope you enjoy his interview,


What motivated you, Mr Lincoln, to write I’M A KEEPER?


First, thank you for your invitation. The motivation to understand how we are made first came from an intense desire to understand myself. Then one day a client who was a parent asked, “Would this be of benefit to me in understanding my child?” Her relationship with her child had developed into a losing battle of wills for both. A flashback of my own childhood feelings created an instant empathy in me, and before I knew it I said, “Yes. I’ll be holding a workshop on that soon, and I’ll let you know.” It was the first time I’d thought of a seminar/workshop for parents in understanding their children! So that’s how I got motivated to apply how we are made on the inside to parent-child relationships. From there the overwhelming interest of parents led to the book becoming a necessity.

I might add, writing the book was nothing but a pleasurable task.




How can parents benefit from I’M A KEEPER? 


They can reduce the tension and stress of their parenting by understanding what urges and strengths drive the preferences and passions of their child. Knowledge of why their child behaves the way they do gives the parent a comfortable feeling and confidence that they will be successful in guiding their child, even in moments of heated meltdowns.

Parents benefit when the child benefits, and if the child feels understood by the parents a new relationship instantly begins. Bonding takes place and both the parent and the child feel like the stork dropped them in the right home, so to speak.

We all get lost when we don’t understand. It’s this understanding of who our child is and who we are that makes the relationship, together with the tasks of motivating, training, and teaching another human being, a manageable and pleasant process.

Parents will benefit from seeing almost instant changes in their children and the atmosphere of their home.


How does knowing more about temperaments help one to be a better parent? 


A child is in the process of learning about their world and themselves. They need and usually accept all the help they can get. A parent who can help their child develop the strengths and drives that make them who they are will be, in the eyes of the child and in their own sense of satisfaction, a much better parent.

The four temperaments that have been with us for about 2,500 years have only stuck around because they are useful and accurate. They help a parent know the urges and motivations of everyone in their child’s world. It will give the parent accurate insights into all their children’s relationships.


Can I’M A KEEPER, help all parents regardless of their child’s age? 


Amazingly, yes! An infant is often seen by nurses in a maternity ward as being an either very active child, a fretful child, a calm child or an alert child, each corresponding to an early glimpse of one of the four temperaments. Around age two most of the temperament’s characteristics can easily be observed. So from the earliest years parenting the child with an understanding of what the unseen urges of temperament are benefits both child and parent greatly. In teenagers it is a must, or the child will drift to those who do understand them and to where they do feel comfortable. Bonding is essential for effective guidance in the teenage years.




Does I’M A KEEPER address more challenging issues such as autism, physical or emotional disabilities, and attachment disorders in adopted children? 


Let me make it clear that I’M A KEEPER is not a medical or specialist book on issues like autism. We need the specialized knowledge of these fields for sure. But that does not discount its applicability, since all children in all of these conditions have temperaments and need to be understood. Handling a child according to their temperament can provide some unexpected solutions and help for these conditions. It can ease much distress and pain for both child and parent.

It certainly smoothes the path for attachment disorders in adopted children, as you might well imagine, and can do the same in cases of physical and emotional disabilities. I would feel that understanding your child on the deep level of their preferences and drives is nothing but essential for these issues. At least I have found it an important help alongside specialized treatments.

In emotional disorders it is paramount, because a lot of emotional conditions involve relationships and even center around our relationships with ourselves and others. Understanding what drives us and how we handle and develop those drives cannot be anything but relative.


I wondered if your book would help single parents like me; and how about caregivers in general, such as grandparents, teachers, and other family members? 


Single parents tell me it’s a God-send. Anything that reduces stress and creates a meaningful bond between parent and child is helpful at the foundational level, especially where the child is different from the parent.

Understanding our grandchildren, or the children of our family and friends, impacts the success of all these relationships. A grandparent said to me a few days ago after I gave a talk to young mothers on temperament (she happened to attend), “I need that book! I need it for me to understand my children, let alone my grandchildren, and after listening to you I feel I understand my brother better, too.” Understanding how we are made on the inside builds a respect and empathy for all relationships.


Thank you, Mr. Lincoln, for sharing your book, I’M A KEEPER, with us today. Don’t forget, Tuesday, October 5, is the big day to order and receive lots of free e-gifts. To purchase your copy on Tuesday, click on this link: 

Monday, September 27, 2010

New venture

Joining the launch of a new company can be daunting for both publisher and author, especially when new things come and go so quickly here (sorry, Dorothy...it's not Kansas any more).

I'm excited about Written World Communications.com.
Harpstring Magazine launched this past weekend: http://www.magcloud.com/browse/Issue/115880

(I'm on page 9 with a short story)

Written World has its sights set high with launching both magazines and book imprints. It's an exciting ride! Check out the company and see what we can do to help each other.

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

My Booklaunch

You are cordially invited to come join me at Grace's place, September 30th, 2010. I will launch my new book, The Asquinn Twins Series: Ted, Auxiliary Policeman.
Published on amazon's digital platform.