Interview with author of Lonely Hearts: Amanda Stephan

Amanda will be having her book launch of Lonely Hearts on Nov. 1st. You'll be able to get all kinds of free gifts on that day. Check it out http://www.booksbyamanda.com/

Why I Write Christian Fiction ~by Amanda Stephan

The young man did a double take at my banner and gave me a skeptical look. His dark brown hair swept across his forehead as he held a bag to his chest and a soft snort escaped his sneering mouth.

"Christian romance? Is there such a thing as that?"

This account is true. It is real. It is a conversation I have at every venue I go to. And my answer never changes.

Yes, there IS such a thing as Christian romance.

Having been married almost 18 years, I am a recipient of the best kind of romance. The lasting kind. The kind where the spouses accept and love one another even with the many faults and warts that come along with real people. If I became upset after every hardship or every time my husband *didn't* sweep me off my feet, we'd be divorced. True love happens everyday when we make a point to put someone else's needs in front of our own. True love is when you accept that apology, or better yet,offer an apology because of some hasty words that you let slip during your frustration. Or when you don't go to bed angry, because the argument wasn't that important to begin with. But better than this earthly love my husband and I share, is the agape love from my Heavenly Father who loves without condition and never forsakes.

I saw it in this young man. He was beyond skeptical. He was to the point of derision. And I had a chance to witness to him. I had the chance to tell him that yes, there is such a thing as Christian romance, and it's the best kind.


See, God didn't call me to be a missionary to an exotic land away from my home. He gave me a mission field right here. This is my purpose for writing. To help spread God's love and message to those who need it.




So many times, a book can go where a preacher or teacher cannot. A place where the heart is open but the ears closed. If my books can reach one person for God? I am honored!

Review of Letters to God, on a Prodigal Son

Here is a Review of Letters to God, on a Prodigal Son by Christian Book Reviews. On Nov. 8th, you will be able to get many free gifts for purchasing Letters to God... Follow my blog for more information or check out my web-site for details.

Author, teacher, writer and mother, Anita Estes, shares her heart-wrenching trial and journey through the battle of her adult son's addiction from a mother's heart. Letters to God is an inspiring compilation of journal entries, lessons learned and powerful prayers written as she waged war through a battle of addiction for her prodigal son that would last approximately two years. Filled with faith-filled scriptural prayers, learn how to proclaim the Word of God over your children and watch it come to pass.

This book not only shares insights into the spiritual realm and explains the war that is waged against our children's souls, but Author Anita Estes teaches, how through prayer, faith and worship, one can be victorious over the powers of evil that hold our children in bondage. This journal accompanied with the lessons learned is a powerful tool for any parent finding themselves in similar circumstances.

This practical book will lift your faith and encourage you in your fight for your child's life. Throughout the entries, faith-filled prayers are included that are based on the scriptures to assist you in your battle. Understanding the spiritual realm, this mother shares how prayer and worship are some of your most powerful weapons to be waged in this war.

Addiction is rampant in our country, seizing our children and adults alike, dragging them into the darkest pit. In this book, God's hand is not so short that He cannot pull anyone from the deepest pit of despair of addiction and set them free. A triumphant story of faith tested in the fire of affliction, this book is recommended for anyone with a family member struggling with the stranglehold of addiction.

This book will greatly increase your faith and helps others to stand firm in their faith. A genuine love of prayer will be ignited within your soul with this book, learn how to come close to God through prayer, petition and worship. This book is proof positive that God is a Mighty Deliverer and is still in the business of answering the prayers of the faithful. Truly He has the power to work all things out for good.

A highly recommend read and a wonderfully written book, witness the transformation of a mother who felt helpless to help her son, but turns to God and never lets go. Watch her faith grow and her son find freedom, redemption and deliverance. This true story will touch your heart and give you the faith to keep holding on. This book is truly a triumphant and wonderful testimony to the saving power of God and the power of prayer. Thank you Anita Estes for sharing your story and writing this book.

A Highly Recommended Read

Interview with author of Mission Possible--Deborah McCarragher

What inspired you to craft this insightful volume?

I was involved with a local intercessory prayer group at the time, and was prompted by God during prayer to write down what He was conveying to me about my husband and his salvation. It was quite literally written while inspired, and without much effort on my part. I just typed on the computer as He led me to bible verses and topics to talk about. I remember writing down the names of the (7) chapters during prayer time on a tablet - just looking at them afterwards in awe. It was quite a moving experience.

The book is anchored strongly in sound scriptural support. Did you perform much research prior to putting it together?

Yes I did, however, I was also fortunate to be part of an inter-denominational, comprehensive bible study (BSF - Bible Study Fellowship) for seven years which gave me much of my bible study background as a new believer. I have always loved God's Word since I met Jesus in 1989 at the age of 33. As I wrote the book, God would lead me to a verse I was familiar with, or I would read something that day that would remind me of something I had studied earlier. Practical application was always prompted by the Lord in my prayer and devotional time.

What primary advice do you have for women who are married to "non-believing" husbands?

I think the most important advice is to have faith in Who God Is and His sovereignty. We can't "pre-package" our spouse's conversion experience, and God will always do what will bring Him the "most glory". We also have to remember that we don't wrestle against flesh and blood. Our spouse (if unsaved) isn't governed by God's Spirit - so we have to release them from that accountability. We must have faith that rests in God and not in our own understanding. We must not rely on our signt.

Have you had the opportunity to share the book with church groups or congregations?

I have shared at my home church in ladies bible study groups and Sunday school classes briefly, but not in a large forum as yet. I plan on pursuing a strategy of contacting local churches and introducing myself and my book to women's ministry leaders this year. I would to share my personal testimony with others and bring hope and encouragement to women who are hurting and frustrated.

What kinds of reactions has the book generated thus far?

I have had great reaction to my little book. Some women love it because it is not lengthy, and they can read it quickly - yet refer back to it over & over again. One woman emailed me a testimony that she was nearly ready to leave her husband, but after reading the book, felt that God was leading her to give her marriage another try. That was very humbling and gratifying for me. I just want to help women see that there is an alternative to being miserable in an unequally yoked marriage.


What's the main message that you'd like readers to take away from it?

I would love readers to discover that God has a plan for each marriage that is in spiritual disunity. It involves us, but it is always done HIS WAY! I want readers to know that it is a process that evolves over time, that we must not put God in a box, but give Him room to move in our spouse's life. They need to know that because we are not perfect and continue to sin, that satan will try to discourage and influence us to believe that our "mission" is not possible - but with God, all things are possible!


Please share more with us about your publishing company, Alabaster Box Publishing.

I formed my company, Alabaster Box Publishing Inc. so I could self-publish my book "Mission Possible". My company's mission is to minister to women who are married to men that don't share their passion for Jesus, and give them hope & encouragement in their marriage through my book. My company's motto is "Books to stir your mind, and stretch your soul!"


What's next for you?

I am working on another book that is completely different from my first book. It is titled "Trees of the Bible - A Spiritual Journey". It will feature various trees in scripture and talk about their significance in the Bible. It features their Hebrew name and their scientific designation. There is an excerpt on my website.


How can our readers learn more about you and your ongoing efforts?

They can visit my website at www.Alabasterboxpublishing.com or my Blog page at www.Godmissionpossible.blogspot.com. Email at deb@alabasterboxpublishing.com.
My book is available through my website (above) & at Amazon.com http://bit.ly/bUrtgA as well as several other online retailers. It can also be ordered at any Christian bookstore. I have my book available in (4) forms: as a trade paperback, audio book on CD, as an EBook, and as a downloadable MP-3 file.


Any final thoughts you'd like to share?

Just that I know how difficult it is to be married to a spouse who doesn't share your love and devotion to the Lord Jesus. I, like many of my readers, get frustrated and disillusioned, but I know God has perfect timing and our best interests at heart overall. He wants our spouses to come to a saving knowledge of Him and embrace a future together that brings glory to Him.

Book Launch--Fit for Faith

Kimberley Payne, author and speaker, is launching her book Fit for Faith - 7 weeks to improved spiritual & physical health on Tuesday, October 11th at Amazon.com. You can help Kimberley achieve ‘best seller’ status by purchasing the book at Amazon.com TODAY!

About the book:


This book unites physical health and spiritual health through a 7-week program to lose weight and develop a deeper relationship with God. It is a reference on cardiovascular exercise, strength training, prayer, healthy eating, Bible study, flexibility exercise and journal writing.



About the Author:



Kimberley Payne is a motivational speaker and author. Her writings relate raising a family, pursuing a healthy lifestyle, and everyday experiences to building a relationship with God. Through her work, Kimberley hopes to inspire women to live happier, healthier lives that glorify God. Kimberley is a former personal trainer and has worked in the designing and counselling fields of weight control, stress management, self esteem improvement and wellness programs. She enjoys recreational activities with her husband and two children near Peterborough , Ontario . You can visit her website at www.kimberleypayne.com



Bonus!

Buy Fit for Faith – 7 weeks to improved spiritual & physical on Tuesday, October 11th and receive loads of FREE gifts from many generous supporters.


Sample chapters, Bible studies, short stories, and children’s books from acclaimed, best selling and debut Christian authors.


All if you buy your copy of Fit for Faith – 7 weeks to improved spiritual & physical health at Amazon.com on October 11th 2011!