Amanda Stephan's Blog: God is Good, God is Great, page 62

January 30, 2012

Sisters in Cahoots! ~ Aileen Stewart

Hostess of ~ Kids Korner

Mondays with Aileen











Everyone has a little time for fun, and we're glad to welcome Aileen Stewart to our chummy little Sisters in Cahoots! group. Aileen is a great friend and I'm tickled she's going to bring us our Kids Korner on Monday's.



Aileen, what would you like to tell picky parents out there?

I write children's books for the eight to twelve tween group. I chose this group because I never really out grew my love of children's books and this is an often overlooked age wedged between pictures books and YA fiction.



What can we look forward to with your column? 

My column is Kids Korner where I will be sharing book reviews, author and illustrator interviews, and other assorted kid friendly items . My goal is encourage reading by introducing fun, fresh, entertaining, confidence building, morally sound books that both kids and parents will enjoy. So come join the adventure and maybe you will find an adventure of your own!



Remember, click on the book cover below to get an inside peek at Aileen's book, Fern Valley!
Lonely Hearts ~ a sweet Christian Romance
The Price of Trust ~ Christian Romantic Suspense
http://www.booksbyamanda.com





 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on January 30, 2012 00:00

January 29, 2012

Sisters in Cahoots! ~ Kristi Burchfiel






Hostess of ~

Sundays with Kristi ~


Devotionals










Hi Kristi! I'm so excited to introduce you to our lovely group of readers here!



Can you please tell us a little about yourself?

I write Christian Bible studies and devotions. Honestly, I've never seriously thought about writing anything else. I enjoy being able to study the Bible and learn what God has for me. I believe God teaches each of us about who He is and what He has for us so that we can both apply it to our lives and share it with others so they can grow in their relationship with Him, too. I love seeing God speak to other people through the words and examples He's given me.



Would you care to tell us a little about your column?

My column is "Sunday Mornings with Kristi." My prayer is that God will use this time with all of you to share together in learning and applying God's truths. I want to share what God is doing in my life and showing me, and I want to hear your story and how God is using scripture to impact your life. I look forward to growing together with you!



I'm sure you're working on something new a fabulous. Would you like to tell us about what you're doing?

I have a couple of new works in progress. My new Bible study, "The Decay Within: A Study of Amos" is now available in pre-sales on my website and will officially launch April 10th. I'm also working at adding to "The Daily Devotional Series" ebooks and plan to have the devotions over Psalm available in mid-February.




You're more than welcome to click on the Book Covers below and read a little more about Kristi's books at Amazon.com ~








And check out her newest devotional, The Decay Within at her website at http://www.kristiburchfiel.com/ !








Lonely Hearts ~ a sweet Christian Romance
The Price of Trust ~ Christian Romantic Suspense
http://www.booksbyamanda.com





 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on January 29, 2012 00:00

January 28, 2012

Sisters in Cahoots! ~ Dee Dee Wike

Hostess of ~ Dear Dee Dee

Saturdays with Dee Dee





Again, I had the pleasure of meeting Dee Dee and her daughter in September in Nashville, and let me tell you, they are a HOOT! When I finally gained enough courage to ask these ladies, (The Sisters), if they would be interested in a group blog, Dee Dee had the wonderful idea of a Dear Dee Dee Column here on the blog. I'll let her tell you the rest, but be sure to join us here on Saturdays for the chat!



What genre do you write?  

I write primarily non-fiction (devotionals), although I have written some poetry and a parable, which I hope to publish as a children's book.



Why do you write this particular genre?

I write non-fiction because it is how I process life.  My devotionals come straight out of my prayer life and incorporate Scripture as our relevant solution for today's life issues.



What is your contributing column and what would you like to see happen with it?

My Saturday column is "Dear Dee Dee," a Dear Abby-type feature which will give biblical answers to questions posed by our readers.  It is my hope that this column will become a place of ministry and prayer as we explore together what God's Word says about the problems we face.  It is not intended to be an "advice" column, but one where desperate hearts in search of hope find encouragement in the Word of God.



What is your next major project?

Although I have a third devotional book and a children's book in the wings awaiting publication, my next major project is to turn one of my existing books into a devotional app similar to "Jesus Calling" or "Our Daily Bread."  I am also working on building my speaking ministry and obtaining 501(c)3 status for Dee Dee Wike Ministries.

Click on the book covers to get an inside peek at Amazon.com!







We're trying to find just the right chat box to have here on the blog, so you may have to be patient with me as I work out the kinks. I'm open to ideas from readers if you think of something you'd like instead of a chat box, email me! amanda38401 at gmail dot com



<br /> <iframe src="http://www.spinchat.com/cb/start?chn=..." width="500" height="380" border="0" frameborder="0"><br /> </iframe>

Sisters in Cahoots!Lonely Hearts ~ a sweet Christian Romance
The Price of Trust ~ Christian Romantic Suspense
http://www.booksbyamanda.com





 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on January 28, 2012 00:00

January 27, 2012

Sisters in Cahoots! ~ Karina Harris

Thursdays with Karina ~

Writing; More Than Words




Continuing our introductions, I'd love for you to meet Karina Harris. 











Karina is the talented author of Christian novels, Second Chance and Third Time Around. I had the pleasure of meeting Karina in September of 2011, and we had a blast up in Nashville. Let me tell you. You have to watch the quiet ones... ;)





What genre do you write?
I write fiction.  The two books I've published fall under the category of Christian romantic suspense.  Although I also have some Christian historical fiction in the wings.



Why do you write this particular genre?

I most enjoy reading fiction.  It is my great escape.  From the time I was a young girl, I loved entering the worlds of others and reading about their lives, their happy endings.  As I grew up and began to develop my own style of writing, I naturally turned to that genre to share my feelings, beliefs, and what truths about life God had given me.



What is your contributing column and what would you like to see happen with it?

In addition to writing fiction, I am also a teacher.  I have spent much time trying to help young people develop their own style when writing, and have learned a few tips along the way, many of them from other writers much more accomplished than me.  My column Is titled "Writing; More Than Words".  In it I hope to share some insights I have learned regarding the craft of writing.  My hope is that by sharing what I have learned (and am still learning), other writers and educators may be aided in some way.



What is your next major project?

I am currently working on the prequel in the Summers Saga.  The characters have become so real to me that I also find myself thinking about what they are doing now.  So there may one day be a fourth book in the series...



As I said previously, I have also written an historical novel.  This one also has the potential to become a series.





Be sure to click the images below to get a peek inside these fabulous books ~ Available on Amazon.com & Karina's website!









Lonely Hearts ~ a sweet Christian Romance
The Price of Trust ~ Christian Romantic Suspense
http://www.booksbyamanda.com





 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on January 27, 2012 00:00

January 26, 2012

Sisters In Cahoots! ~ Darlene Shortridge

As you know, we're starting a new thing around here. Starting February 1st, next Wednesday, Darlene Shortridge will be kicking off our new Sisters in Cahoots! blog. I thought it would be a great time to introduce you to each of our wonderful hostesses in the next few days. Stay tuned, and come back to learn about 




Hostess of ~ 

Growing in Christ 

Wednesdays with Darlene














Hi Darlene, I'm so glad you're a part of Sisters in Cahoots! I'm sure you're going to keep us all on our toes, and I'm positive you have some pretty fantastic things in store for our readers! Let's tell them a bit about you, shall we?




What genre do you write?

I write Contemporary Christian Fiction, particularly drama/women's fiction.  Some have labeled my writing romance, but, I tend to think of it more as a drama.



Why do you write this particular genre?

I want to write fiction that can change lives.  Until Forever deals with the difficult subject matter of alcoholism.  Forgiveness is key in the story line.



What is your contributing column and what would you like to see happen with it?

I write the column "Growing in Christ."  My life's calling is seeing people, especially women, grow into the women God has called us to be.  Everyday we should see positive changes in our lives.  Everyday we should be more than we were the day before.  If we are to accomplish all God has called us to do, we must learn to deny ourselves and become more like Him.



What is your next major project?  

I am currently working on the sequel to Until Forever, which is titled "Forever Blessed."  Forever Blessed deals with the real life issues of domestic violence.  I am thrilled and humbled that God has allowed and called me to do what I love to do, write and speak so that we may all grow into His likeness.  My husband and I have just begun to work on a joint writing venture.  I won't tell you what it is just yet, but I can promise it's going to be awesome!






Want a sneak peek into Until Forever? Click on the book cover below and you'll be taken right to Amazon.com


Lonely Hearts ~ a sweet Christian Romance
The Price of Trust ~ Christian Romantic Suspense
http://www.booksbyamanda.com





 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on January 26, 2012 00:00

January 24, 2012

Inner Peace










If you can start the day without caffeine,




If you  can always be cheerful, ignoring aches and pains,




If you can resist complaining and  boring people with your troubles,




If you can eat the same food every  day  and be grateful for it, 




If you can understand when your loved  ones are too busy to give you any time,




If you can take criticism and  blame without resentment,




If you can conquer tension  without  medical help,




If you can relax without alcohol,  




If  you can sleep without the aid of  drugs,   


















...Then You Are Probably The Family Dog! 
Lonely Hearts ~ a sweet Christian Romance
The Price of Trust ~ Christian Romantic Suspense
http://www.booksbyamanda.com





 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on January 24, 2012 00:00

January 19, 2012

Meet Jennifer Campoverde Rocha

author of Aku and the Magnificent Color Scheme




My Review ~

Every child needs to know that God has created them exactly the way they are. Children will learn this important lesson in Aku and the Magnificent Color Scheme. Beautiful illustrations will hold their (and your) attention as you read how Aku learns contentment and thankfulness in God's design in everything ~ including a small bird with a large imagination!

This lyrical and entertaining story with gorgeous illustrations is sure to become a favorite!





I was invited to read this book by Ms. Rocha, and I thoroughly it. I asked Ms. Rocha a few questions, and wanted to share her answers with you. Enjoy! 









A ~ What inspired you to write this children's book? 




J ~ The inspiration behind Aku traces back to Uganda, Africa.  While teaching sex education and the Bible in the prison compounds of Luzira, I met two little girls that would remind me the value of self-worth and self-esteem.  As they ventured outside the prison gates to escort me home, one of the little girls murmured that she wished she could be white so that she could be beautiful.  I found a way to reach her heart past her insecurities.  She blossomed right before my eyes realizing that she was beautiful just as God created her.  While writing Aku, I felt it would be completely pointless to write a story without an important message.  Whether you are an adult or a child, every person needs to be reminded how unique and special they are …just as God created them to be.




A ~ I see on your dedication page that it was dedicated to someone special. Would you like to tell us a little about it?  




J ~ I dedicated the book to my son Samuel.  In Spanish, his nickname is Samuelito.  Mi tesoro,  mi chiquito precioso means my treasure, my precious little boy.  Samuel is three years old; he is the light of my life and every beat of my heart.




A ~ Did you write under a pseudonym, or is that your real name? 




J ~ Jennifer Campoverde Rocha is my real name.




A ~ Why did you decide to use birds to get your point across? Do they hold a special place in your heart? 




J ~ Aku and the Magnificent Color Scheme just came to me one day out of the blue.  I grabbed a pen and a paper and I had the entire story written in under an hour.  Somehow, I remember just naturally wanting to choose a parrot, maybe because there were not many stories about parrots.  I have two parakeets that have a lot of personality, but when it comes right down to it, I didn't really choose.  I believe it was just meant to be-a parrot named Aku.




Aku and the Magnificent Color Scheme is the first in a series of adventures and valuable lessons.  The sooner Aku and the Magnificent Color Scheme takes off the sooner the sequel will follow.  Children are really attracted to the colors and illustrations.  I have even been asked while doing a reading at a school for third graders if I am going to make a movie about Aku.  Children understand the message and are excited.  




A ~ And, do you have any parting thoughts you'd like to leave?





J ~ I feel blessed to have the opportunity to share this story and be invited into the hearts and homes of families.  To learn more about Aku and upcoming events, you can check out my website @ http://www.jennifercampoverde.tateauthor.com.  




Thank you Amanda for the opportunity to talk about Aku!


And thank you, Jennifer, for being my guest here today! :)












Friends, we are offering a signed copy of Jennifer's book, Aku and the Magnificent Color Scheme to one lucky winner. Leave an encouraging comment for Jennifer to be entered to win this delightful book. Contest ends ~ January 27th
Lonely Hearts ~ a sweet Christian Romance
The Price of Trust ~ Christian Romantic Suspense
http://www.booksbyamanda.com





1 like ·   •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on January 19, 2012 00:00

January 17, 2012

January Contest ~ Win an Amazon.com Gift Card

Have you read Lonely Hearts or The Price of Trust


Whether you purchased them, won them, or borrowed a book from a neighbor, you're eligible to win a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card. 





How?

Just leave a review of either book on Amazon.com or Smashwords.com, enter your information below, and your name will be entered to win. 




Have you read both books? 

If you put your review on Amazon.com AND Smashwords, your name will be entered into the contest for each review at each place you leave them, including GoodReads! 




*Please leave a valid email address so I can contact you if you win.*


Last day to enter, January 31st. Winner will be notified February 1st and must respond within 2 days to my email or another winner will be chosen.





The Price of Trust on Amazon.com

The Price of Trust on GoodReads.com





Lonely Hearts on Amazon.com

Lonely Hearts on Smashwords.com

Lonely Hearts on GoodReads.com



a Rafflecopter giveaway

<a href="http://rafl.es/enable-js"&am... need javascript enabled to see this giveaway</a>.Lonely Hearts ~ a sweet Christian Romance
The Price of Trust ~ Christian Romantic Suspense
http://www.booksbyamanda.com





2 likes ·   •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on January 17, 2012 00:00

January 14, 2012

eBook Sales

Good morning, bloggy friends! Do you realize it's already the second almost third week of January? Oh goodness, how time flies!



The weather is getting colder down here in the South, and that means, reading on my Kindle. Yes, I won a Kindle from SouthernWriters ~ how awesome is that?! Anyway, I wanted to send out some quick links to some eBooks that are low-cost.



Of course, my newest book, Lonely Hearts (which was on Amazon.com's Best Seller's list ~ always an awesome thing) is now only 99¢ on Smashwords. Get your copy now!



And, here's a few more Christian books on sale at Amazon.com ~

**Please Check Price before downloading!** :)



99¢ ~ 
The Santa Shop (The Santa Conspiracy)



The Daily Devotional Series: The Gospel of John



The Daily Devotional Series: Genesis



The Holy Bible: Authorized King James Version KJV Holy Bible (ILLUSTRATED) (King James Bible - Churched Authorized Version | Authorised BIble)



Weekend



Valley of the Shadow



A Dream Unfolding (Prescott Pioneers #1)



A Man for Temperance (Wagon Wheel)



Brenna's Choice



Chocolate-Covered Crime (A Summer Meadows Mystery)



89¢ ~

Joelle's Secret (Wagon Wheel Series #3)



Snow Angel: A Novel



A Man for Temperance (Wagon Wheel Series #2)



Classics I Loved ~

99¢ ~

Sense and Sensibility (Full Text with Biography, Chapter Summary, Examination of Themes, and Character Summary)



Mansfield Park (Full Text with Biography, Chapter Summary, Examination of Themes, and Character Summary)Lonely Hearts ~ a sweet Christian Romance
The Price of Trust ~ Christian Romantic Suspense
http://www.booksbyamanda.com





1 like ·   •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on January 14, 2012 00:00

January 13, 2012

Therapists

I went to the therapist today. The office rather looked and smelled like a hair salon.Oh wait. It was. There are times when I just HAVE to have my hair cut. It's like a whole new beginning or something. 

So I walk into the store and I waited for my personal 'dr.' When I need a good 'session', I goto her. No one else. Should it scare me that she immediately grabs scissors and drapes a cape around my shoulders? Ha! No. Where else am I going to feel like a villain-turned-superhero in only twenty minutes?!I always. ALWAYS. take a picture of what I need. That's how we communicate. Pictures are worth a thousand words, right?! :0)Anyway, she looks at my special picture, nods once or twice, and commences cutting.

Twenty minutes later, I feel like a new person. Look like one too. There's a smile on my face, a lilt in my walk, and a giggle in my talk.Not to mention more money in my wallet. I mean, hey. Where else can you borrow a cape, have a chit-chat while you're being transformed from a beast into a beauty?! *or at least as close as it's going to get...*


[image error]


Source: hairstyles2012x.com via Amanda on Pinterest



Ha ha! No, that's not me. I wish, but nope. I'm still hiding here behind my desk where you can't see me...hehe! Perhaps I'll get some pictures taken this week and post them for y'all to see my new 'do'. Or not... ;)

Photobucket Lonely Hearts ~ a sweet Christian Romance
The Price of Trust ~ Christian Romantic Suspense
http://www.booksbyamanda.com





 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on January 13, 2012 17:49

God is Good, God is Great

Amanda Stephan
A little of this, a little of that. I love doing many different things, but I'm going to share my love of good books, fun crafts, freebies, contests, and scrapbooking with this blog. Enjoy! ...more
Follow Amanda Stephan's blog with rss.