Miranda A. Uyeh's Blog, page 37

Book Review ~ The Sound of Emeralds by Rachelle Rea (Steadfast Love, #3)

About the Book

What once was blazing hatred has turned to lasting love, but could the union of a wild heart with that of a lady ever result in more than heartache?

With the help of an old friend with uncertain loyalties, Dirk inches ever closer to clearing his name. Gwyneth throws her faith into good tidings and the promise of a future as a family. But an old evil comes to call, just as tragedy rips apart a fledgling truce. Enemies from the past and grief for the future threaten to tear asunder what God had brought together…

As the date of Dirk’s trial approaches, his fate and his family hang in the balance. Will he be proven innocent of Gwyneth’s parents’ murders—or separated from her forever? How much pain does it take to erode a love steadfast?

Category

Christian/Fiction

Genre

Historical Romance

Rating

4 Stars

Review

The Sound of Emeralds marks the conclusion of the Steadfast Love Series, and a fine finish it was! The struggles of Dirk and Gwyn—personally, and as a couple—are brought to light, of which the most paramount, was learning to trust each other. The odds that faced their marriage even before it started proved to be a trial that tested their love for each other, but ultimately brought them to a precipice and place that showed their steadfast love for each other.

The literary skill of Miss Rea is delightfully Shakespearean with a tint of mildness and confidence, showing the uniqueness of Rea’s lovely writer voice. This is the stuff that quotes and banners of our day are made of!

If you’re so inclined to discover a new author of historical romance that will make a lasting and pleasant impression, as well as broaden your figurative horizon, Rea’s Steadfast Love series is your ticket to such an endeavor!

About the Author

Times gone by snatch Rachelle close, so she reads and writes about years long ago–her passions include the Reformation, Revolutions, and romance. In the space of a summer between sophomore and junior year, Rachelle wrote a novel set in 1566. Two years later she had finished two more novels and signed a three-book deal with her dream publisher. Her debut novel, The Sound of Diamonds, released in June 2015. Find out more about Rachelle, like that she’s a homeschool grad and Oreo addict, athttp://rachellerea.com.

Filed under: Book Feature, Book Review Tagged: Christian Fiction, Historical Romance, Rachelle Rea, Steadfast Love #3, Steadfast Love Series, The Sound of Emeralds

Book Review ~ Mardan’s Mark & Healer’s Curse by Kathrese McKee

About Mardan’s Mark
Death is not their deepest fear.

Abducted by pirates and taken behind enemy lines across the Great Gulf, Princess Srilani is determined to save her sisters and younger brother, the crown prince, from captivity.

She convinces their caretaker, Aldan, and his brother slaves to share the perilous journey home. This ragtag group of unlikely heroes sets out on a quest — pursued by cutthroat pirates, merciless priests, and marauding soldiers — toreturn the heir to his kingdom before war breaks out.

In this epic adventure fantasy, Srilani and Aldan risk everything to save a prince and a nation, discovering along the way that death is not their deepest fear.

Category

Christian/Fiction/Young Adult

Genre

Fantasy/Romance

Rating

4 Stars

Review

After reading so many fantasy books, I’ve often wondered if I’ll ever be impressed by anything new, especially with books by J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, Serena Chase, Jaye L. Knight etc. out there. One would think that their books would have spoiled you for good, so that amateur/debut authors almost never stand a chance in the fantasy market. Well, I’m delighted to say that I was pleasantly surprised by McKee’s debut books!

Mardan’s Mark turned out to be beautifully and intricately crafted in a manner that allows a reader to follow each scene and the overall story with such detail, making it an endearing and engaging read. Each character was thoroughly developed so that they each had their unique stages in this one story. Though the character count is more than the usual for a novel/epic, I was never confused and was thoroughly impressed by this–this is a skill worth applauding, especially when spotted in a debut author!

Mardan’s Mark is a nicely done story with the potential to become an amazing saga!

*A thank you to the author and her publicist for a free copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

About Healer’s Curse
Lady Elilan heals people. Or does she?

The fever is back, and people in Northern Marst are dying. After Elilan’s husband dies under her care, she abandons her divine gift of healing. What good is the “gift” if she can’t save those she loves?

Her faith is put to the test when the king commands her to nurse a seriously wounded enemy soldier back to health. Will she rely on her knowledge of medicine or entrust her patient’s life—and her good name—to the One who gave her the gift she has neglected? Elilan must decide what she really believes when death threatens again.

Category

Christian/Fiction/Young Adult

Genre

Fantasy/Romance

Rating

4.5 Stars

Review

I especially love this book because it represents courage and uncommon boldness. The heroine, Elilan, is truly amazing, and I couldn’t help but admire her strength, even in the seasons where she seemed beaten and rejected.

And the hero? He couldn’t have been better! Clearly, they suit and compliment each other!

After reading this book, I wished it would go on a little longer, and was sorry it was just a novella–yes, it was that good! McKee’s brilliant writing is the stuff that makes good books that linger in the mind of a reader long after the last page has been closed. Since I’ve read book #1, Mardan’s Mark, I can’t wait to see how the rest of the story goes, and how the characters come together, down the series.

Kathrese McKee, with this series, has made it to my list of favorite authors, and debut authors to look out for! Overall, this is a truly excellent read that I highly recommend!

*A thank you to the author and her publicist for a free copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

About the Author

In middle school, I ate lunch in the school library every day. With my nose stuck in a book, immersed in the epic adventures on the pages, I barely tasted my food. I’ll always be grateful my school was too crowded for everyone to sit in the cafeteria. Thank you, Ms. Librarian, for turning a blind eye to the kids who brought food and drink near your precious books.

In middle school, I ate lunch in the school library every day. With my nose stuck in a book, immersed in the epic adventures on the pages, I barely tasted my food. I’ll always be grateful my school was too crowded for everyone to sit in the cafeteria. Thank you, Ms. Librarian, for turning a blind eye to the kids who brought food and drink near your precious books.

I’m proof that teens and young adults should pay attention to what they like to do best and just do that when they grow up.

Lunch, band, and language arts were my favorite subjects, but I ignored my natural desire to write stories and make music and decided to be a computer programmer instead. At least the geeks and nerds I worked with knew all about Star Wars, Battlestar Gallactica, Princess Bride, Dr. Who, and The Lord of the Rings.

Years passed. I became a middle school reading teacher and had fun introducing my students to fantasy and science fiction at every opportunity. Much to my disgust, however, the days of eating lunch in the school library were over. I needed a new plan.

I decided to become an author and editor. Now I read lots of books, listen to music, write fantasy, blog, and edit stories. Most days, I eat lunch at my desk–in my library, of course.

Filed under: Author Feature, Book Feature, Book Review Tagged: Christian Fiction, Fantasy, Healer's Curse, Inspirational, Kathrese McKee, Mardan's Mark, Romance, YA

Book Review ~ Stella by Elle E. Kay

About the Book

Abandoned by her dearest friend, Stella is running-scared. Life and death decisions force her to re-examine her faith, as well as her priorities. The handsome, Jason, only exacerbates her anxiety. Should she trust him? Something is amiss in the quiet town of Edinsville. How will Stella fare as her world gets turned upside down?

Stella is a stand-alone romantic suspense novel. It is the first book in the Edinsville Series.

Semi-finalist in ACFW Genesis Contest – 2015.

Category

Christian/Fiction

Genre

Contemporary/Romance/Suspense

Rating

4 Stars

Review

There’s a simplicity to to this story that makes it alluring. Every element is tucked nicely into all the right places without much fuss, twists and turns. In an age where this isn’t so common anymore, it’s quite refreshing.

The hero/heroine are sweet and likable, and easy to sympathize and empathize with. The demographics employed in her character selection–both main and secondary–is commendable!

Overall, this is a well done book!

About the Author

Elle E. Kay lives on a farmette in the Back Mountain region of Pennsylvania. She lives with her husband, son, dog, and farm animals. She enjoys playing with goats and sheep. She can also frequently be seen with chickens landing on her head. A comical sight to be sure.

Elle is a hopeless romantic who believes in happily-ever-after. She is a born-again Bible believing Christian.

Stella is her debut novel, and is available for pre-order from Amazon.com. The next book in the Edinsville Series, Claudia is expected to be released in October 2016. Elle writes children’s books under the pen name, Ellie Mae Kay.

 

Filed under: Book Feature, Book Review, Inspirational Tagged: Christian, Contemporary, Elle E. Kay, Inspirational, Romance, Stella, Suspense

Album Review ~ As Long As We Can Breathe by JJ Weeks Band

ALBUM PHOTO

GENRE

Christian/Pop/Rock

RATING

4.5 Stars

REVIEW

Funky, entertaining, worshipful lyrics, and every other good thing that Christian music can be, I love that this album celebrates faith in God in such a way that testifies of His goodness. One of my favorite lines was in the song Higher–“if your morning hasn’t come, then your story isn’t done; look a little higher!”

If you’re looking for an album that will lift your spirits, less your faith, put you in worshipful mode, and also entertain you, look no further than JJ Weeks Band’s As Long As We Can Breathe!

Filed under: Album Feature, Entertainment, Inspirational, Music/Album Review

How Does Adversity Affect You?

Have you ever felt like you’ve fallen out of orbit and you’re having trouble righting yourself again?

 

Usually, these moments occur at a time in life when you’re at a crossroad and you have to unlearn a certain principle (or a couple!) that you’ve lived by until something jarring came along and tested its depth in your soul. You suddenly realize that some of your “beliefs” are just fancy cool opinions that are trending and you thought they would look good on you, too. So along comes a trial that will shake your foundation and rock your center, bringing out both the best and worst in you. You discover a part of yourself that you didn’t even know existed, and you learn you’re capable of certain actions you didn’t believe you were–for good or evil. These are the moments that define who you really are. For the traits that make you disappointed in yourself, you either rise to the responsibility of consciously changing your ways to become a better person, or you allow yourself to be crushed under the seemingly overwhelming guilt it throws on your shoulders.

For me, I’ve learned vital lessons in moments like these, and I offer them to you:

1. I’m human. I’m growing. I’m learning. There’s no way around this. So I own it, and I take responsibility to consciously redefine my ways, God helping me.

2. In the face of adversity, a lot of seemingly important things lose their glitter, and the simpler things/ways aren’t only wonderfully available, but employing them takes the weight off my shoulders, and I can recognize the beauty in them. Yes, simple is beautiful, too, and a priceless gift to those who choose to acknowledge them.

3. Shedding the extra weight makes my soul lighter, my purpose clearer, and redefines my priorities, hopefully for the better.

These are but a few! I hope they are helpful to you and bless your heart! Have a lovely week!

Filed under: Inspirational, Personal Development Tagged: How Does Adversity Affect You, Inspirational, Miranda A. Uyeh

Album Review ~ Walk On Waves by Austin &Lindsey Adamec

Album Photo

Genre

Soft Rock/Contemporary Rock

Rating

3.5 Stars

Review

A soft rock/contemporary album, Austin and Lindsey Adamec don’t shy away from expressing their gratitude, praise, and vulnerability before God. They tell the story of the Bible/Gospel with the intent to worship God and tell the world of His goodness!

Clearly, the songs were engineered in a manner that the instrumentation doesn’t overshadow the more important element of their music/ministry—the message in the lyrics—as listening to it sends you into a powerful but soothing mode of worship.

Walk On Waves is a different-flavored kind of rock than what we’re used to—a lovely addition to the contemporary genre! Also, it doesn’t hurt that Austin and Lindsey kept their songs/album short and sweet!

Filed under: Album Feature, Entertainment, Inspirational, Music, Music/Album Review Tagged: Album Review, Austin Adamec, Christian Music, Contemporary Rock, Lindsey Adamec, Music, Soft Rock, Walk On Waves

Thank You for a Wonderful 2016 TBAP Fiesta!

Friends, the 2016 Fiesta turned out to be more successful than I’d hoped! There were a few glitches here and there; also, two guests couldn’t attend eventually due to some changes, but they made an appearance still—I’m thankful for that! Here’s a huge to our guests of 2016 and the audience that made a contribution! Thank you and God bless!

See you at the next Fiesta in 2017!

Filed under: Actors, Author Feature, Entertainment, Inspirational, Music, TBAP Easter Fiesta Tagged: TBAP Easter Fiesta, TBAP Fiesta 2016

Join These Authors/Actors/Alliances in TBAP’s 2016 Easter Fiesta!

Hello Folks!

I’m happy to invite you to TBAP’s 2016 Easter Fiesta! it’s going to be lots of fun!

About the Event

TBAP’s Easter Fiesta is a social media event where the professionals of the literary and the entertainment industries give back to the audience that has supported them over time, by chatting with the audience that will appear on TBAP’s social media on a set date/time. For 2016, it’s TBAP’s Facebook! The professionals are drawn from the categories: authors/actors/alliances/music artists. it begins March 17th through 27th.

I’ll be your host!

Meet the Guests!

1.  Award-winning author of The Daughters of Boston, Winds of Change, and Heart of San Francisco series, Julie Lessman was named American Christian Fiction Writers 2009 Debut Author of the Year and has garnered 17 Romance Writers of America and other awards. Voted #1 Romance Author of the year in Family Fiction magazine’s 2012 and 2011 Readers Choice Awards, Julie was also named on Booklist’s 2010 Top 10 Inspirational Fiction and Borders Best Fiction list. One of her most recent novels, Surprised by Love, appeared on Family Fiction magazine’s list of Top Ten Novels of 2014, and her independent novel A Light in the Window is an International Digital Awards winner, a 2013 Readers’ Crown Award winner, and a 2013 Book Buyers Best Award winner. Julie has also written a self-help workbook for writers entitled Romance-ology 101: Writing Romantic Tension for the Sweet and Inspirational Markets. You can contact Julie through her website and read excerpts from each of her books at www.julielessman.com.

2.  Cheryl McKay Price is originally from Boston, Massachusetts, but spent a lot of her young life in North Carolina. For the past fifteen years she’s lived in Los Angeles working as a screenwriter, novelist, and a writing teacher and mentor. However, she and her husband recently moved from Big Hollywood to Atlanta, Georgia, also known as Little Hollywood.

Cheryl began writing stories and plays at five years old based on pictures on her lunchboxes. She’s been writing since. Her most notable film to date is The Ultimate Gift (starring James Garner, Abigail Breslin). Cheryl’s favorite genres are family dramas and romantic comedies. One of Cheryl’s favorite writing alliances is with Rene Gutteridge. The two partner on novelizations of Cheryl’s screenplays. (Never the Bride for Random House, Greetings from the Flipside for B&H, Love’s a Stage and O Little Town of Bethany for Redbud Press.) Cheryl is an avid scrapbooker, day-tripper, and a chocolate addict. You can read more about her on her website: www.purplepenworks.com

3. Rene Gutteridge is the award-winning and best-selling author of twenty-four multi-genre novels and is a seasoned collaborator in both fiction and film. She has novelized six screenplays and movies, including her newest, Old Fashioned, with writer/director Rik Swartzwelder. Her romantic comedy with screenwriter Cheryl McKay, Never the Bride, won the Carol Award in 2010 for Best Women’s Fiction.  Her new titles include two more novelizations with Cheryl McKay, Love’s a Stage and O Little Town of Bethany. Her seven suspense books includePossession, Misery Loves Company, Ghost Writer and Escapement.

Her indie film, the comedy SKID, was deadCenter Film Festival’s Best Oklahoma Feature Film Winner in 2015 and also won Best Oklahoma Feature at Red Dirt. She is a creative consultant on Boo, a script based on her beloved novel series, which is in development at Sodium 11 Entertainment with Andrea Nasfell (Moms’ Night Out) as screenwriter. Her novel My Life as a Doormat was adapted into a Hallmark film called Love’s Complicated which premiered in January of 2016 and scored 2.1 million viewers.  She is a full-time comedy writer for The Skit Guys.

Find her on Facebook and Twitter or at her website, www.renegutteridge.com

4. DiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. She combines unforgettable characters with unpredictable plots to create action-packed, suspense-filled novels.

Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists; won two Christy Awards; and been finalists for the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests. Library Journal presented her with a Best Books 2014: Genre Fiction award in the Christian Fiction category for Firewall.

DiAnn is a founding board member of the American Christian Fiction Writers; a member of Advanced Writers and Speakers Association; International Thriller Writers, and the Faith, Hope, and Love chapter of Romance Writers of America. She is co-director of The Author Roadmap with social media specialist Edie Melson where she continues her passion of helping other writers be successful. She speaks to various groups and teaches writing workshops around the country.

DiAnn has been termed a coffee snob and roasts her own coffee beans. She’s an avid reader, loves to cook, and believes her grandchildren are the smartest kids in the universe. She and her husband live in sunny Houston, Texas.

DiAnn is very active online and would love to connect with readers on any of the social media platforms listed at http://www.diannmills.com.

5.  Michelle Griep has been writing since she discovered blank wall space and Crayolas. The realm of history is where she dreams up stories such as: THE CAPTIVE HEART, BRENTWOOD’S WARD, and A HEART DECEIVED. She blogs on the award-winning sites of Writer Off the Leash and Novel Rocket. Residing in the frozen tundra of Minnesota, she lives with her husband and neurotic dog, and in her spare time teaches writing and history at a local high school co-op.

6.  Rich Swingle has been involved in the performing arts and applied theatre full-time since 1995. Since 2010 he has performed in over 20 featurefilm projects. Because he’s been performing his own one-man plays for two decades, he easily jumps into character roles and is used to carrying the whole story as lead.

7. My name is Kirk Fernwood. I am a confessed film fanatic (ask my friends! LOL). As going to the movies really didn’t become a favorite hobby until the college years when I had the freedom to go when I wanted, my overall enjoyment of watching them has only continued to grow. But, I also started to realize as more recent years have come along, that it was beginning to go BEYOND entertainment. I found I wanted to write reviews, to put my thoughts out there, and to find a way to become a PART of the industry itself. My mother had always told me growing up I was so “dramatic”, but I never attempted to pursue acting in any form, mostly out of the fear I would not be “good enough” or couldn’t “compete” with others who clearly (in my mind) had the skills already. But I never KNEW for sure because I didn’t even TRY. And so it was as the post-college years passed by, as I had people throughout that time asking me why I didn’t look into becoming a FilmCritic/Reviewer, as it was more than evident I had a passion to see movies! Averaging anywhere from 35-45 per year, I kept hearing those questions being posed and my only response was to kind of laugh it off in that “Ha! Yeah, wouldn’t that be cool?” dismissive way…again, afraid to even TRY for fear and my own self-imposed doubts.

Fast forward to January 2014. After so much time of having the dream of being a full-timeFilm Critic, I FINALLY decided it was time to put the doubts aside, quit believing it all wasn’t possible, and put the first step into action….this website, OneFilmFan.com. I recall when I posted my first review and hit “Publish”, my opinion was out there for that film…for anyone to see anywhere in the world. Now, I knew (and still know), it all takes effort, discipline, patience, and time to make something new catch on, to attain the level of exposure and success desired. And therefore, I have stuck with it. I found an even newer drive to work on the site, ultimately pairing it with an associated Facebook Page at Facebook.com/onefilmfan and Twitter account @OneFilmFan. Focusing on both Major Release and Indie films, as well as having posted actor/actress profiles and a few brief commentaries on related subjects, I have watched as the first year is almost over. 90+ reviews, multiple connections with publicists/PR firms, a marketing firm, indie film makers, and several actors, multiple review offers brought TO me by them, and several actor interviews later, I finally see…it all IS possible.

On my Twitter and personal Facebook accounts, you will see the symbol below…it is a rune from one of my favorite YA fantasy book series/films, “The Mortal Instruments.” And it stands for what you need to be for any new endeavor that seems daunting….FEARLESS.

 

8. K. Victoria Chase enjoys writing passionately clean romance novels. She earned degrees in Criminal Justice and Diplomacy and worked as a federal law enforcement officer for several years before deciding to try her hand at writing a complete novel. Today, K. Victoria Chase is the published author of fifteen titles in romantic suspense, contemporary romance, and paranormal romance.

Victoria Chase was first published in 2012 by a small e-publishing house. In 2013, she independently released her first novel and fell in love with self-publishing. As an “indie” author, K. Victoria Chase has the freedom to work hand-in-hand with vetted industry professionals (cover artists, editors, formatters) to produce a quality product her readers will love. She also has the liberty to experiment with various marketing strategies and selling platforms to reach more readers with timeless romance stories.

Why interracial romance? K. Victoria Chase grew up reading Christian romance that featured cookie-cutter heroes and heroines. She remembers receiving one novel from her mother with a minority female heroine on the cover; they were just too hard to find on the shelves of local Christian bookstores. The church consists of a variety of individuals who look different, but all experience the same emotions. K. Victoria Chase wanted to feature relatable characters in realistic stories that everyone–not just a small segment of consumers–would enjoy reading.

*Her ultimate dream: to have both a robust career in publishing and writing for television/film (hey Hallmark, General Hospital…email me!).

You can connect with her at books@kvictoriachaseauthor.com.

9. Brenda  S. Anderson writes gritty and authentic, life-affirming fiction. She is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and is currently President of the ACFW Minnesota Chapter. When not reading or writing, she enjoys music, theater, roller coasters, travel, and baseball, and she loves watching movies with her family. Brenda lives near Minneapolis, MN with her husband, their three kids, and one sassy cat. Learn more at brendaandersonbooks.com

10. Bestselling author, Heather Manning, is a young lady who loves to read–and write. After she won several writing competitions, her first book was professionally published and quickly became an Amazon Bestseller. She is an active member of her local ACFW chapter and lives in Kansas City, Missouri where she sees plays, devours donuts, and acts in community theatre. You can find Heather on her blog: heathermauthor.blogspot.com.

11. Melica Niccole was born and raised in Columbus, Ohio and now resides in New Jersey. She developed a fondness of writing and creating things at an early age. Writing was a creative expressive technique that she used to talk about various subject matters such as relationships, domestic violence, friendships, and more. These subject matters were mainly expressed in the form of poetry.

After graduating from college, Melica sought to be a published author. Although Melica did not become a published author right after her undergraduate work at Otterbein, the drive and determination within her stayed the same. She has preferred performed in front of audiences at The National Black Book Festival, The Ohio State University, Inspired World NYC, Writing Wrongs Poetry, Newark Public Library, and other places around the county. Her had work finally paid off in August 2010 when she release her first book titled, “Dead Wrong.”

Melica has a Master’s Degree in Health Services and a Bachelor’s in Health Promotion and Fitness. Currently, she works with individuals with Mental Health Diagnoses and have over 10 years of work in the Human Services Field. Her activities include mentoring youth, managing a quarterly newsletter, and supporting local companies with planning and implementing effective programming. Melica love living outside the box and creating new and exciting things. She believes anything is possible with passion and determination.

12. Bill Ewing – During Bill’s 15 years at Columbia Pictures, he supervised the production of more than 100 feature films, including Awakenings, A League of Their Own, My Girl, Groundhog Day, Age of Innocence, In the Line of Fire, Little Women, Fly Away Home, Air Force One, Men in Black I and II, Stuart Little I and II and The Patriot.

He started with Columbia in 1986 as a production consultant and in 1987 was named Director of Production Services, becoming part of David Puttnam’s administration. Bill remained at Columbia after David’s departure and was made Vice President of Production Administration in 1988 by new studio President Dawn Steel.

With Sony Corporation’s acquisition of Columbia, Bill was elevated to Senior Vice President of Production Administration in 1992. His final production for the studio was the first Spiderman which grossed $806 million worldwide.

Preceding Bill’s tenure at Columbia, he developed and produced Thunder Alley for Cannon Films in 1985 and The Slayer for the International Picture Show in 1981. He started his production career in the mid 1970’s with the Dino De Laurentiis production of King Kong and Sandy Howard’s production of Meteor.

He got his start in the entertainment business as an actor in numerous films and television series, including Johnny Got His Gun, The End, Little House on the Prairie and Korg 70,000 BC. And he made his directing debut on the Lifetime movie Christmas Child based on a Max Lucado book.

Bill was President of Every Tribe Entertainment from 2002 through 2009, where he served as Producer and Co-Writer of the feature film End of the Spear and Co-Executive Producer of the award-winning documentary Beyond the Gates of Splendor.  He then became CEO of Kingston Place Pictures through 2011.  He is currently developing and producing independent film projects for LV Film Partners.

Bill resides in Los Angeles with Susie, his wife of 34 years.

13. Doc Benson started out in the field of railroad management, eventually making the move to service in both ministry and media. He served for two decades as a pastor, church planter, and rural church consultant in addition to working as a news producer.  Doc later went on to manage a television station, serve as an on-air talent, and produce, direct, and manage several feature films.   For his work on “Seven Deadly Words”, Doc won three Best Director awards.  He holds degrees in Business Administration, Transportation Logistics, and Ministry.

14. Rebekah Cook is a Christ-follower, actress, coach, casting director, and script supervisor. She lived in Spain for nineteen years as a missionary kid before moving stateside to pursue her passion for screen acting. She got her start apprenticing with Advent Film Group, and since 2009 has served on both cast and crew for over a dozen feature film productions. Her first lead role was as Virginia Page for In His Steps, a modern adaptation of the controversial and inspiring 19th century novel.

Participating in the casting and production process from both sides has cross-trained her skills in the industry, and enabled her to mentor other rising talent. Rebekah loves working with directors and fellow actors as they develop their characters from the script and bring them to life on the screen. Both on and off of film sets, her heartfelt calling is to be an ambassador of Christ and share God’s love with those around her.

15. Francine Locke is an award winning actress, and has a recurring role on ABC’s Nashville, as Avery’s firm, no-nonsense mom. She able to handle both subtle nuance, and “let ‘er rip”​ intensity. Her roles are varied, from stumbling single mom to high powered attorney, but her intelligence and love for family, shows through on film. She has been involved in several faith-based films, but enjoys the challenges associated with roles that focus on poor choices made in life.

A Chicago native, she recently relocated to the Atlanta area. Her career initially focused on Industrial film and Commercial work, she is skilled with the Ear Prompter, Teleprompter, Narration, and Voice Over, but she’s really found her niche in film in the Southeast.

Best Actress: Georgia Entertainment, Best Actress nomination, Stauros Inspirational Film, Gideon Film Festival, Experience Studios FF.

2 time Best Supporting nomination: 168 Project (LA). Breaking (8 noms) Stealing Home (12 noms).

Specialties: Ear prompter, Teleprompter, Narration, Production, Directing. Small business owner.

16. Jody Thomae has been involved in worship arts ministry since 1997, serving as worship arts ministry pastor, worship leader and creative arts director. Over the years, she has coordinated artistic involvement in church services, worship events and women’s events through dance, drama, poetry and fine arts through the North Central Ohio region. She performs, teaches, choreographs, preaches, coordinates and leads workshops in the area of creativity, spirituality and embodied prayer. She also leads worship at local seminars, retreats and women’s events.

Her passion is for the revelation of God to be made more real through the prophetic use of the arts in church and formational ministry. It is her desire to portray the message of Christ’s desperate and unfailing love for His people to help sustain the hearts of the broken and weary. She is particularly interested in the way in which God uses the arts to bring formational development and healing to His people. Life scriptures include Psalm 27; Isaiah 50:4-7; and Zephaniah 3:14-17.

She is a graduate of Ashland Theological Seminary and lives in Ashland, Ohio with her husband and two children.

Her book, God’s Creative Gift—Unleashing the Artist in You: Bible Studies to Nurture the Creative Spirit Within, is available through Wipf & Stock Publishers, Amazon and in Kindle format. She has also released a devotional CD entitled Song of the Beloved, which is available on iTunes and through CDBaby. She is currently writing her second book on the healing journey of the creative soul.

For more information on her ministry, her book or music visit http://www.jodythomae.com.

17. Entering just her third year in the film industry, Juli Tapken has logged more than 20 IMDb credits with major roles in feature films like faith-based projects Providence, Mission Improbable,The Reins Maker, and many more. Juli is also showing up big in television with upcoming shows like 12 Masksand Think. Create. Repeat, plus multiple commercials in various markets. She began singing and acting very early as a child in Oklahoma, building to lead-roles in musical theater classics likeOklahoma, Gypsy, and The Diary of Anne Frank, which led to a professional career in Branson, Missouri, where she performed in Two From Galilee, and a long run on the musical comedy, Smoke on the Mountain. Juli Tapken is dedicated and driven to bringing her characters to life in an honest and relatable way, while being a strong asset on set. Juli also has great range, performing many different role-types, and is actively seeking even greater challenges! Visit Juli on her website, view her, and connect with her on twitter and her facebook page!

18. Katie Pavao is an up and coming Actress, Singer, Songwriter, Director, and Playwright, who is currently based in Nashville, TN. Represented by Advantage Talent Agency, she has been acting in film/movies, and regularly auditioning for roles in Voiceover, Print Campaigns, and Commercials. Her latest projects have been the films: Providence (2016), filmed in Springfield, TN and recently released to select AMC Independent Theatres throughout the US, and Concrete Hearts (2016), filmed in Sterling, IL, outside of Chicago, and being released soon, to film festivals, and used as an educational tool for counselors, churches, and schools. Katie has also played roles in country music videos: Sandra Lynn’s, “Bar Hoppin'” and Eric Paslay’s, “High Class.” She is currently studying Gracie Jiu Jitsu’s Women Empowered (self-defense) program and training in stage combat with her husband, Zube, a martial artist. A bright and cheery, 24 years old, Katie has been in more than 36 plays and musicals, having been raised in the theatre, and has been a part of many short films, with Providence, playing cheerleader Amy Johnson, her first role in a feature film. Find out more atimdb.me/katiepavao and katiepavao.com and connect with her on Instagram @katiepavao & Twitter @katie_pavao! She is looking forward to being a part of TBAP’s Easter Fiesta!

19. Bronwyn Angley is a blogger with Desert Design Writing, an actor and a teacher. She studied acting the Globe Theatre’s Actors Conservatory and received her B.A. in Theatre Studies at the University of Regina. In 2012, she travelled to Los Angeles to study screenwriting with Act One and complete an internship with MPower Pictures. She wants to make art that a)honours God but is also painfully honest about our human condition, and b)can be used for social action or justice. Above all her ambitions and titles, she is a passionate follower of Jesus and at the end of the day, that’s all that matters.

Photo by Jason Coleman

20. Apolonia Davalos (AEA/ WIFT-Nashville and TWIFM Member) is a film and Off-Broadway theater director and actress. She is named after APPOLLONIA, an ancient, biblical town, in Macedonia, Greece, south of Lake Bolbe, known today as Nea Apollonia. Hence, she was born with a passion for God and love of history! Her upcoming short modern-western film “Children of War” will debut through the film festival circuit in 2016. She is the Co-Writer and Co-Star of the online radio broadcast “The Baby Shug’s Show”! As an actress her feature film credits include: “The Good Book” (on DVD), “Providence” (recently released in select AMC Theatres), “The Perfect Wedding” (on DVD), etc. In theater, she received great acclaim for the originated role of LYNN CORDERO in the Off-Broadway production of Looking for Billy Haines in Times Square (NYC). Other theater credits include: A Midsummer Night’s Dream (The Nashville Shakespeare Festival); Metamorphoses (The Boston Actors Theater): The Crucible (Salem Theatre Company); and Sisters of the Church (Afrikan Women’s Repertory Theatre). She is further recognized as a producer, director, writer, as well as an inspiring advocate for classical Greek theater through her production company APOLONIAD Productions. Known for her hearty laugh, talent for accents, love for martial arts, and singing classic 1930’s tunes!  “Apolonia Davalos is a passionate, young director dedicated to exploring the plays of Euripides. As a member of a generation used to reading no more than 140 characters at a time, her devotion to a classical poet is worthy of tremendous admiration.” – Show Business Weekly.  www.Apolonia.Weebly.com

Photo by Chloe Borai

21.  is a busy, working actress, voice over talent, model, public speaker, producer,  blessed with a powerful training background in film, theater, television, and the voice-over industry with an impressive long list of credits with  an infectious positive energy about her. Ms. Santiago has had the rare opportunity to be invited as a guest artist to the Sundance Institute Filmmakers Lab 5 separate years, to work with mentors like Oscar and Emmy winning actors/directors/writers such as, Robert Redford, the late, Philip Seymour Hoffman, and Joan Darling, (M*A*S*H*, writer).

In the silent, award winning, faith based feature film, *Providence, her character , Edith Cartwright is receiving much acclaim for her portrayal of her character  which transforms 40 years, and suffers a stroke. In November 2015, she and her husband, Del Baron, who are both  Co – Executive Producers, of the multi-winning and nominated redemptive feature film, Adrenaline, staring John Schneider, (*Best Director – Win, *Best Score- Win *Best Foreign Film –Nom.). (Ms. Santiago also acted in a supporting role), traveled to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil for the FNCC film festival, to represent Team Adrenaline for the nominated category of Best Foreign Film! She is currently on location filming the feature film, The Reason, as Dr. Kelly Collins with Lou Gossett Jr. and Tatyana Ali.

 Ms. Santiago volunteers her time teaching presentation and life skills, through acting, to at risk youth. “Growing up in a large, poor family wanting to be noticed and embraced for my passions, for my individuality, to aspire to go higher. I give back to give a hope to others and enact on the magic inside each child. One of my mentors told me, “Only 2 people need to believe in you Irene, you better be one of them.” She imparts this wisdom upon the students.

She grew up in small Kearns, Utah of Puerto Rican heritage and raised in a bilingual (Spanish/English), family of 8 children. She is the youngest. She and her husband, Del have 2 beautiful children and one goldfish living close to the beach in lovely Wilmington, NC.

Most importantly, feels so strongly none of this would have been possible without Christ and her Father in Heaven in her life. “I know my A.B.C.s = I Act Because of Christ.”

Connect with Irene on Twitter   Google+   Fan page Facebook   Instagram

22. Sharon Wilharm never intended to be a filmmaker, but when her husband’s local history documentary morphed into a faith-based film, she found herself thrown into the role of writer, director, and lead actress. When it was over she swore she’d never do another movie because she wasn’t very good at it. But God had other plans.

Over the past 15 years Sharon and her husband Fred have produced 6 feature films, and with each one they’ve strived to raise the bar and make it better than the ones before. Their movies have won countless film festivals, are available at Christian retailers around the world and online at iTunes and other VOD outlets, and frequently air on television. Providence, their latest movie, released to theaters Valentine’s weekend as part of the AMC Independent lineup.

Pick a Date/Time To Chat with the Guests!

March 17th/2:00-3:00pm Pacific Time – Julie Lessman, Cheryl McKay, Rene Gutteridge

March 18th/2:00-3:00pm PT – DiAnn Mills, Michelle Griep

March 19th/3:00-4:00pm PT – Rich Swingle, Kirk Fernwood

March 20th/2:00-3:00pm PT – K. Victoria Chase, Brenda Anderson

March 21st/2:00-3:00pm PT – Heather Manning, Melica Niccole

March 22nd/2:00-3:00pm PT – Bill Ewing, Doc Benson

March 24th/5:00-6:00pm PT – Rebekah Cooke, Katie Pavao

March 25th/2:00-3:00pm PT – Jody Thomae, Juli Tapken, Stacey Bradshaw

March 26th/2:00-3:00pm PT – Francine Locke, Bronwyn Angley, Apolonia Davalos

March 27th/7:00-8:00pm PT – Irene Santiago, Sharon Wilharm

*FYI, you can visit every of these days and chat with the guests, learn about the industry, and ask (almost) any question! it’s their time to give back to you! Super, right?

Meet the Influencers!

FYI, I love these ladies! they’re friends of mine, and always help out as often as they can! pay attention to them; they always have fun things to say about good things! Simply click on their names to learn more about these awesome ladies and what they do in their corners of the web. Also, follow them as they tweet, facebook, and blog about the fiesta! You can be sure you’ll have fun as you party with them!

Rachelle Rea

Amber Stokes

Rissi C.

Meagan Davenport

Grace Mullin

Bekah M.

Shannah Mauney

Shantelle Hannu

Would You Like to Tag Along?

It’s simple! And, I promise it’ll be fun too! You can tweet to me (@Rini_MAU) and use this hashtag #TBAPFiesta, and I’ll find you! You can also update your facebook status by using the hashtag #TBAPFiesta and tagging your post with Miranda Afa Uyeh or Miranda’s To Be A Person, and I’ll find you! Also, you’re more than welcome to post on TBAP’s facebook!

Finally, watch the lovely inspirational messages sent your way by some of the guests, on TBAP’s Official YouTube Channel. I, too, was blessed by their messages!

Looking forward to having you!! :)

Filed under: Actors, Author Feature, Entertainment, Inspirational, TBAP Easter Fiesta Tagged: Amber Stokes, Apolonia Davalos, Bekah M., Bill Ewing, Brenda S. Anderson, Bronwyn Angley, Cheryl McKay, DiAnn Mills, Doc Benson, Francine Locke, Grace Mullin, Heather Manning, Irene Santiago, Jody Thomae, Juli Tapken, Julie Lessman, K. Victoria Chase, Katie Pavao, Kirk Fernwood, Meagan Davenport, Melica Niccole, Michelle Griep, Miranda A. Uyeh, Rachelle Rea, Rebekah Cook, Rene Gutteridge, Rich Swingle, Rissi C., Shannah Mauney, Shantelle Hannu, Sharon Wilharm, TBAP's 2016 Easter Fiesta

A Prayer for Now & Always

The more I witness certain things happening in this world, the more I’m in awe and humbled by the faithfulness of God. As you climb higher in the ladder of life, there’s a place you get to, and then you realize that if you don’t let God take a hold of you, the world will, one way or another. And, who knows if you’ll ever find your way back. I have gotten to this point, and some days, it scares me. Other days, I remember the faithfulness of God (and His promise to discipline me if necessary, as any loving father would), and I’m thankful for the peace that follows. This experience has led me to say a certain prayer in my heart every now and then, and I’d love to share it with you today. You’re more than welcome to borrow it! ;)

 

Filed under: Christianity, Faith Testimony, Inspirational, Spirituality Tagged: Christian, Inspirational, Prayer

Book Spotlight ~ Adolfo by K. Victoria Chase

About the Book

ADOLFO. Book one of the long-awaited sequel series to the bestselling Santiago Brothers.

He’ll have to risk everything to save her.

New clandestine agent Adolfo Perrera is living the life he’s always dreamed. When he learns his friends from the Farm are presumed dead, Dolf’s decision to discover the truth will pit him against the Agency, and a father he idolizes.

Zaire Baker will question everything she’s been taught to believe when her mission in the jungles of Nicaragua implodes. Help comes from an unlikely source, challenging her to move on from the past to an explosive future.

Genre

Contemporary Romance/Suspense

Category

Fiction/Inspirational/Interracial

New to this series? Start the adventure by reading the Santiago Brothers series!

The Santiago Brothers

Rafael – Book I

Alejandro – Book II

Ricardo – Book III

 

The Perrera Brothers

Adolfo – Book I

Diego – Book II

Rodrigo – Book III

 

About the Author

K. Victoria Chase loves to read, but enjoys daydreaming about romance even more. She received degrees in Criminal Justice and Diplomacy and worked as a federal law enforcement officer for several years before deciding to try her hand at writing a complete novel. Today, K. Victoria Chase is an Amazon bestselling author of clean, interracial contemporary romance, romantic suspense, and Christian romance. Find K. Victoria Chase on her website and get two free books when you sign up for her newsletter!

 

Filed under: Author Feature, Book Feature, Inspirational Tagged: Adolfo, Christian Fiction, Contemporary Romance Suspense Romance, Inspirational Fiction, Interracial Romance, K. Victoria Chase, Perrera brotehrs Series, Santiago Brothers Series