April 2010
The following reviews, interviews and features are running on FaithfulReader.com for the month of April.
Faithful Fiction
IMAGINARY JESUS by Matt Mikalatos (Fiction)
IMAGINARY JESUS is an hilarious, fast-paced, not-quite-fictional story that’s unlike anything you’ve ever read before. When Matt Mikalatos realizes that his longtime buddy in the robe and sandals isn’t the real Jesus at all, but an imaginary one, he embarks on a mission to find the real thing.Reviewed by Marcia Ford.
FORGET ME NOT by Vicki Hinze (Suspense)
Imagine regaining consciousness, bruised and battered, in a wooded area not knowing how you got there. And, worse yet, not knowing who you are or what your name is. Thus begins a young woman’s dangerous journey back to a life that may hold even more threats for her. The one thing she hasn’t lost is her faith in God, and through Him she finds the courage to continue. Reviewed by Maggie Harding.
HAND OF FATE: A Triple Threat Novel, by Lis Wiehl with April Henry (Mystery)
Outspoken radio talk show host Jim Fate dies tragically when poisonous gas fills the studio while his polarizing show, "The Hand of Fate," is on air. In the ensuing panic, police evacuate downtown Portland --- and the triple threat of FBI Special Agent Nicole Hedges, crime reporter Cassidy Shaw and Federal Prosecutor Allison Pierce begin piecing together the madness, motive and mystery of what just happened. Reviewed by Marcia Ford.
Christian Living
ESSENTIALS FOR LIFE: Your Back-to-Basics Guide to What Matters Most, by Marcia Ford (Christian Life)
A growing number of people recognize their need for a reliable guide for their life's journey. ESSENTIALS FOR LIFE fills that need by helping readers get back to the basics of what matters most with a fresh perspective on four core essentials of the Christian life: What do I believe? How do I grow closer to God? What should my character and life reflect? How do I live my life every day? Reviewed by Michele Howe.
MORE JESUS, LESS RELIGION: Moving from Rules to Relationship, by Stephen Arterburn and Jack Felton (Christian Living)
Over a decade ago, bestselling authors Stephen Arterburn and Jack Felton exposed the dangers of what they called "toxic faith," helping countless believers to discern between religion and relationship and overcome their spiritual baggage. Drawing upon an additional 10 years of observation and personal experience, they offer new insights in the search for lasting joy, fuller freedom and greater understanding, and a more honest experience of God. Reviewed by Michele Howe.
PRACTICE RESURRECTION: A Conversation on Growing Up in Christ, by Eugene H. Peterson (Christian Living)
In PRACTICE RESURRECTION, Eugene H. Peterson unpacks Paul’s Epistle to the Ephesians in a theological “conversation” about what it means to mature to the “stature of Christ.” Peterson’s pastoral style draws readers to a deeper understanding of God’s call and their Christian walk. Reviewed by Evelyn Bence.
Marriage and Family Life
MOMMY POWER: Discovering Your Mommy Strength, by Dr. Sheila Schuller Coleman (Parenting)
Many women struggle with being mothers. The great joys of parenting are hindered by harsh self-doubt and a chronic lack of physical and emotional energy. In MOMMY POWER, Sheila Schuller Coleman helps women understand that while they really don't have the power or strength to handle the demands of motherhood alone, they don't have to. Reviewed by Michele Howe.
Author Talks
Linda Lee Chaikin
Linda Lee Chaikin has written over 30 books, including The Silk House series and FOR WHOM THE STARS SHINE, a finalist for the prestigious Christy Award and a story that introduces the main characters in her latest title, THE SPOILS OF EDEN. In this interview, Chaikin explains her interest in Hawaii, which became a state when she was growing up. She also discusses the novel’s emphasis on the sometimes-misrepresented Hawaiian Christianity and the theme of God as a loving father who is actively involved in our history.
Siri Mitchell
Siri Mitchell’s most recent novel, SHE WALKS IN BEAUTY, is an historical romance set during the Gilded Age in New York City, about a young debutante torn between her social obligations and the need to follow her heart. In this interview, Mitchell discusses the ways in which life during the 1890s mirrors many of our attitudes and practices today, and describes what baffled her the most about typical 19th-century behavior. She also shares what contemporary people can learn from young society women at the turn of the century and elaborates on the message she hopes readers will take away from the book.
Study Guides
ROOMS by James L. Rubart (Suspense)
On a rainy spring day in Seattle, young software tycoon Micah Taylor receives a cryptic, 25-year-old letter from a great uncle he never knew. It claims a home awaits him on the Oregon coast that will turn his world inside out. Suspecting a prank, Micah arrives at Cannon Beach to discover a stunning brand-new 9,000-square foot house. And after meeting Sarah Sabin at a nearby ice cream shop, he has two reasons to visit the beach every weekend.
- Click here to read more about ROOMS.
- Click here to read a review of ROOMS.
- Click here to read James L. Rubart’s bio.
IN HARM’S WAY: Heroes of Quantico, Book 3 by Irene Hannon (Romantic Suspense)
IN HARM’S WAY is an intriguing story about an infant kidnapping, an unusual Raggedy Ann doll and a terrified heroine who must convince the FBI her strange story is true. No one takes her seriously --- until one agent stumbles across a link between the doll and the abducted infant, setting in motion a chain of events that uncovers startling connections…and puts the heroine’s life on the line.
- Click here to read more about IN HARM’S WAY.
- Click here to read Irene Hannon’s bio.
SHE WALKS IN BEAUTY by Siri Mitchell (Historical Fiction)
For a young society woman seeking a favorable marriage, so much depends on her social season debut. Clara Carter has been given one goal: secure the affections of the city's most eligible bachelor. Debuting means plenty of work --- there are corsets to be fitted, dances to master, manners to perfect. Her training soon pays off, however, as celebrity's spotlight turns Clara into a society-page darling.
- Click here to read more about SHE WALKS IN BEAUTY.
- Click here to read Siri Mitchell’s bio.
SWORN TO PROTECT: Call of Duty Series, Book 2 by DiAnn Mills (Romantic Suspense)
Border Patrol Agent Danika Morales has sworn to protect the southern borders of our nation, but that oath has cost her. Two years ago, her husband, Toby, was killed trying to help the very immigrants Danika was responsible for sending back to Mexico. His murder was never solved. But now, a recent string of attacks and arrests leads her to believe that someone in McAllen is profiting from sneaking undocumented immigrants into the country…and it may somehow be tied to Toby’s death.
- Click here to read more about SWORN TO PROTECT.
- Click here to read an excerpt from SWORN TO PROTECT.
- Click here to read DiAnn Mills’s bio.
Features
THE SPOILS OF EDEN: The Dawn of Hawaii Series, Book 1 by Linda Lee Chaikin (Historical Fiction)
Baby Kip is the center of a bittersweet struggle between estranged lovers Eden Derrington and Rafe Easton, especially since the law states children of lepers cannot be adopted. Then, when Eden’s father returns to establish a leper clinic, Eden leaves Rafe behind. Amid the political tension, sinister deeds and hidden guilt, can Eden hear the voice of God calling in tropical paradise?
- Click here to read an excerpt from THE SPOILS OF EDEN.
- Click here to read Linda Lee Chaikin’s bio.
SIXTEEN BRIDES by Stephanie Grace Whitson (Historical Fiction)
In 1872, sixteen Civil War widows living in St. Louis respond to a series of meetings conducted by a land speculator who lures them west by promising "prime homesteads" in a "booming community." Unbeknownst to them, the speculator's true motive is to find an excuse to bring women to the fledging community of Plum Grove, Nebraska, in hopes they will accept marriage proposals shortly after their arrival!
- Click here to read an excerpt from SIXTEEN BRIDES.
- Click here to read Stephanie Grace Whitson’s bio.
Awards
The 2010 Christy Award Nominees
On April 29th, 2010, the Christy Advisory Board announced the nominees for this year’s Christy Awards, which honor the best of Christian Fiction published the previous year. The winners will be honored at a ceremony to be held on June 26, 2010 in St. Louis, MO during which two-time Christy Award winner and seven-time nominee Lisa Samson will deliver the keynote address.
The 2010 Christian Book Award Finalists
On March 29th, the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association (ECPA) announced the finalists for the 2010 Christian Book Awards. Presented annually since 1978, the awards recognize books in six categories: Bibles, Bible Reference & Study, Christian Life, Fiction, Children & Youth and Inspiration & Gift. Narrowed from over 220 submissions by 33 ECPA publishers, five finalists from each category are selected based on editorial excellence, as well as category-specific criteria. The overall winners will be announced on Monday, May 3rd, during an Industry Awards Banquet at ECPA’s annual Executive Leadership Summit in Nashville, TN.
Click here to read the full newsletter.
Faithful Fiction
IMAGINARY JESUS by Matt Mikalatos (Fiction)
IMAGINARY JESUS is an hilarious, fast-paced, not-quite-fictional story that’s unlike anything you’ve ever read before. When Matt Mikalatos realizes that his longtime buddy in the robe and sandals isn’t the real Jesus at all, but an imaginary one, he embarks on a mission to find the real thing.Reviewed by Marcia Ford.
FORGET ME NOT by Vicki Hinze (Suspense)
Imagine regaining consciousness, bruised and battered, in a wooded area not knowing how you got there. And, worse yet, not knowing who you are or what your name is. Thus begins a young woman’s dangerous journey back to a life that may hold even more threats for her. The one thing she hasn’t lost is her faith in God, and through Him she finds the courage to continue. Reviewed by Maggie Harding.
HAND OF FATE: A Triple Threat Novel, by Lis Wiehl with April Henry (Mystery)
Outspoken radio talk show host Jim Fate dies tragically when poisonous gas fills the studio while his polarizing show, "The Hand of Fate," is on air. In the ensuing panic, police evacuate downtown Portland --- and the triple threat of FBI Special Agent Nicole Hedges, crime reporter Cassidy Shaw and Federal Prosecutor Allison Pierce begin piecing together the madness, motive and mystery of what just happened. Reviewed by Marcia Ford.
Christian Living
ESSENTIALS FOR LIFE: Your Back-to-Basics Guide to What Matters Most, by Marcia Ford (Christian Life)
A growing number of people recognize their need for a reliable guide for their life's journey. ESSENTIALS FOR LIFE fills that need by helping readers get back to the basics of what matters most with a fresh perspective on four core essentials of the Christian life: What do I believe? How do I grow closer to God? What should my character and life reflect? How do I live my life every day? Reviewed by Michele Howe.
MORE JESUS, LESS RELIGION: Moving from Rules to Relationship, by Stephen Arterburn and Jack Felton (Christian Living)
Over a decade ago, bestselling authors Stephen Arterburn and Jack Felton exposed the dangers of what they called "toxic faith," helping countless believers to discern between religion and relationship and overcome their spiritual baggage. Drawing upon an additional 10 years of observation and personal experience, they offer new insights in the search for lasting joy, fuller freedom and greater understanding, and a more honest experience of God. Reviewed by Michele Howe.
PRACTICE RESURRECTION: A Conversation on Growing Up in Christ, by Eugene H. Peterson (Christian Living)
In PRACTICE RESURRECTION, Eugene H. Peterson unpacks Paul’s Epistle to the Ephesians in a theological “conversation” about what it means to mature to the “stature of Christ.” Peterson’s pastoral style draws readers to a deeper understanding of God’s call and their Christian walk. Reviewed by Evelyn Bence.
Marriage and Family Life
MOMMY POWER: Discovering Your Mommy Strength, by Dr. Sheila Schuller Coleman (Parenting)
Many women struggle with being mothers. The great joys of parenting are hindered by harsh self-doubt and a chronic lack of physical and emotional energy. In MOMMY POWER, Sheila Schuller Coleman helps women understand that while they really don't have the power or strength to handle the demands of motherhood alone, they don't have to. Reviewed by Michele Howe.
Author Talks
Linda Lee Chaikin
Linda Lee Chaikin has written over 30 books, including The Silk House series and FOR WHOM THE STARS SHINE, a finalist for the prestigious Christy Award and a story that introduces the main characters in her latest title, THE SPOILS OF EDEN. In this interview, Chaikin explains her interest in Hawaii, which became a state when she was growing up. She also discusses the novel’s emphasis on the sometimes-misrepresented Hawaiian Christianity and the theme of God as a loving father who is actively involved in our history.
Siri Mitchell
Siri Mitchell’s most recent novel, SHE WALKS IN BEAUTY, is an historical romance set during the Gilded Age in New York City, about a young debutante torn between her social obligations and the need to follow her heart. In this interview, Mitchell discusses the ways in which life during the 1890s mirrors many of our attitudes and practices today, and describes what baffled her the most about typical 19th-century behavior. She also shares what contemporary people can learn from young society women at the turn of the century and elaborates on the message she hopes readers will take away from the book.
Study Guides
ROOMS by James L. Rubart (Suspense)
On a rainy spring day in Seattle, young software tycoon Micah Taylor receives a cryptic, 25-year-old letter from a great uncle he never knew. It claims a home awaits him on the Oregon coast that will turn his world inside out. Suspecting a prank, Micah arrives at Cannon Beach to discover a stunning brand-new 9,000-square foot house. And after meeting Sarah Sabin at a nearby ice cream shop, he has two reasons to visit the beach every weekend.
- Click here to read more about ROOMS.
- Click here to read a review of ROOMS.
- Click here to read James L. Rubart’s bio.
IN HARM’S WAY: Heroes of Quantico, Book 3 by Irene Hannon (Romantic Suspense)
IN HARM’S WAY is an intriguing story about an infant kidnapping, an unusual Raggedy Ann doll and a terrified heroine who must convince the FBI her strange story is true. No one takes her seriously --- until one agent stumbles across a link between the doll and the abducted infant, setting in motion a chain of events that uncovers startling connections…and puts the heroine’s life on the line.
- Click here to read more about IN HARM’S WAY.
- Click here to read Irene Hannon’s bio.
SHE WALKS IN BEAUTY by Siri Mitchell (Historical Fiction)
For a young society woman seeking a favorable marriage, so much depends on her social season debut. Clara Carter has been given one goal: secure the affections of the city's most eligible bachelor. Debuting means plenty of work --- there are corsets to be fitted, dances to master, manners to perfect. Her training soon pays off, however, as celebrity's spotlight turns Clara into a society-page darling.
- Click here to read more about SHE WALKS IN BEAUTY.
- Click here to read Siri Mitchell’s bio.
SWORN TO PROTECT: Call of Duty Series, Book 2 by DiAnn Mills (Romantic Suspense)
Border Patrol Agent Danika Morales has sworn to protect the southern borders of our nation, but that oath has cost her. Two years ago, her husband, Toby, was killed trying to help the very immigrants Danika was responsible for sending back to Mexico. His murder was never solved. But now, a recent string of attacks and arrests leads her to believe that someone in McAllen is profiting from sneaking undocumented immigrants into the country…and it may somehow be tied to Toby’s death.
- Click here to read more about SWORN TO PROTECT.
- Click here to read an excerpt from SWORN TO PROTECT.
- Click here to read DiAnn Mills’s bio.
Features
THE SPOILS OF EDEN: The Dawn of Hawaii Series, Book 1 by Linda Lee Chaikin (Historical Fiction)
Baby Kip is the center of a bittersweet struggle between estranged lovers Eden Derrington and Rafe Easton, especially since the law states children of lepers cannot be adopted. Then, when Eden’s father returns to establish a leper clinic, Eden leaves Rafe behind. Amid the political tension, sinister deeds and hidden guilt, can Eden hear the voice of God calling in tropical paradise?
- Click here to read an excerpt from THE SPOILS OF EDEN.
- Click here to read Linda Lee Chaikin’s bio.
SIXTEEN BRIDES by Stephanie Grace Whitson (Historical Fiction)
In 1872, sixteen Civil War widows living in St. Louis respond to a series of meetings conducted by a land speculator who lures them west by promising "prime homesteads" in a "booming community." Unbeknownst to them, the speculator's true motive is to find an excuse to bring women to the fledging community of Plum Grove, Nebraska, in hopes they will accept marriage proposals shortly after their arrival!
- Click here to read an excerpt from SIXTEEN BRIDES.
- Click here to read Stephanie Grace Whitson’s bio.
Awards
The 2010 Christy Award Nominees
On April 29th, 2010, the Christy Advisory Board announced the nominees for this year’s Christy Awards, which honor the best of Christian Fiction published the previous year. The winners will be honored at a ceremony to be held on June 26, 2010 in St. Louis, MO during which two-time Christy Award winner and seven-time nominee Lisa Samson will deliver the keynote address.
The 2010 Christian Book Award Finalists
On March 29th, the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association (ECPA) announced the finalists for the 2010 Christian Book Awards. Presented annually since 1978, the awards recognize books in six categories: Bibles, Bible Reference & Study, Christian Life, Fiction, Children & Youth and Inspiration & Gift. Narrowed from over 220 submissions by 33 ECPA publishers, five finalists from each category are selected based on editorial excellence, as well as category-specific criteria. The overall winners will be announced on Monday, May 3rd, during an Industry Awards Banquet at ECPA’s annual Executive Leadership Summit in Nashville, TN.
Click here to read the full newsletter.
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