Miranda A. Uyeh's Blog, page 38

Book Review ~ Overcome by Emily Camp

 

About the Book

 

Picking her life back up after a tragedy seems to be easy for Carly. At least on the outside.

She tries to keep her true brokenness hidden from the rest of the world.

An unexpected friendship leads into more than what she is ready for.

Together they work through their pain, but can she let go of the past long enough to see what is ahead?

Genre

Contemporary Romance

Category

Fiction/Inspirational/YA

Rating

4 Stars

Review

The third book in the Cambrooke Series, it turned out to be my favorite of the three. In this story, Camp steps out a bit from the uncensored world of teenagers and their wild living when unsupervised, as opposed to books #1 and #2. She shows her skill as a writer who understands matters of the heart and portrays them beautifully and in a manner that works for the theme of the book.

Overcome is a story full of love, hope, faith, pain/sorrow, and redemption—each carefully knitted into the plot in just the right dose so that the reader is enthralled from start to finish. Though YA, there’s a maturity to this storytelling that makes it endearing to even adult readers that might be inclined to pay attention.

*Though I offer this review to the public, it is my opinion and simply that. My appreciation to Emily Camp, the Author, for a free copy in exchange for my honest opinion.*

 

About the Author

 

Emily lives in Ohio with her husband, two children and dog. When she isn’t writing she can be found on social networks, reading, or home schooling her two children.

Filed under: Author Feature, Book Feature, Book Review, Inspirational Tagged: Book Review, Cambrooke Series, Emily Camp, Inspirational Book, Overcome

A Message from Sanctus Real

I remember the first time I heard the song Whatever You’re Doing by Sanctus Real. I cried. I was going through a very tough time, and I had a lot of questions to ask God. I couldn’t talk to anyone about it, and so a lot of things where bottled inside me. When I first listened to the song, it resonated with me on a very deep level, and the flood gates opened. Everything inside me burst out. The lyrics couldn’t be truer than how I felt on the inside. And in that moment, I knew that I wasn’t alone. Someone, somewhere in this world, had been through a situation that led them to believe that their inside was like chaos. Yet, their faith wouldn’t let them rebel against God. The peace that followed was tremendous! Funny how songs preach to us better than sermons, huh?

So if you’re at that point where these words resonate with you too, it’s my prayer that they help you as they helped me. Know that you’re not alone in this world, and your present circumstances are more familiar to others than you believe they are.

God bless you!

 

Watch to Whatever You’re Doing on Youtube!

Filed under: Christianity, Entertainment, Faith Testimony, Inspirational, Music, Spirituality, Stories Tagged: Christian Music, Inspirational Music, Music, Sanctus Real, Whatever You're Doing

Book Review ~ While You’re Awake by Amber Stokes

About the Book

Ava always knew the bees would come. Just when she’s settled into a place of her own, freelance editing and savoring her independence, her rental house is invaded by a swarm of honey bees. And with their arrival, her lifelong fear morphs into a full-fledged panic that steals her sleep—and her peace of mind.

Keegan knows all about fear. When he meets Ava at the coffee shop where he works, he can’t help but come to her rescue. Together with his German shepherds, Sun and Moon, he sets out to break the “curse” that hovers over Tired Girl. But is it possible to conquer nightmares and live a dream while you’re awake?

This sweet novelette is a contemporary re-imagining of the Sleeping Beauty fairy tale that sheds light on the worries that bind us and the love that leads to peace.

Genre

Contemporary Romance

Category

Fiction / Inspirational / NA

Rating

4 Stars

Review

This is a story that shows that love can find you anywhere, even if God has to use bees to do it (very funny, I know!) it’s also one that shows that [nearly] all kinds of fear can be overcome albeit by the power of love and healthy companionship.

Though a fast and easy read, which I read in one sitting, it doesn’t fall short of any element that makes a well put-together novella. This is what I adore about Stoke’s work! She manages to always give a story the full ingredients that it deserves, no matter how short she intends it to be. This is not a quality you find with most novellas out there.

Of worthy mention is the adeptly crafted setting. The sense of time and space, most especially time, was exquisitely accomplished. Whether reading professionally or not, I look out for this so that I’m fully grounded in the scene moments surrounding a character that an author tries to portray. I can say that I’m fully satisfied with this one! Clearly, you can’t g wrong with small-town romance if you put your heart to it as a writer!

Overall, While You’re Awake is a sweet story that lived up to its title (and cover design!)

*Though I offer this review to the public, it is my opinion and simply that. My appreciation to Amber Stokes, the author, for a free copy in exchange for my honest opinion.*

 

About the Author

 

Amber Stokes works as a content writer for Harvest House Publishers and writes inspirational fiction depicting the seasons of life and love. Her passion for books compelled her to earn a bachelor’s degree in English and to run her own freelance editing and publicity business for over a year. Happily, the next step in her career lies in the Pacific Northwest – a part of the world she has always considered home.

 

Filed under: Author Feature, Book Feature, Book Review, Inspirational Tagged: Amber Stokes, Contemporary Romance, Inspirational, Review, While You're Awake

Book Review ~ Uncharted Inheritance & Christmas with the Colburns by Keely Brooke Keith

About Uncharted Inheritance

Bethany Colburn is finally allowed to court and Everett Foster is ready to confess his love for her. As the outside world closes in on the Land, a new man arrives in the village of Good Springs. He brings charm Bethany has never encountered and illness the Land has never known. While the medicinal power of the gray leaf tree is put to the test and the Colburn family’s strength is stretched thin, Bethany must choose between the love of her life and the intriguing new man. But nothing will matter if the Land is invaded.

Book Three in the ground-breaking Uncharted series, Uncharted Inheritance weaves heartbreak and hope while delivering long-awaited answers in this suspenseful story of life in a hidden land. If you like the rural setting and wholesomeness of Amish Fiction but are looking for something new, read Uncharted Inheritance.

Genre

Historical Romance/Contemporary/Techno Sci-fi

Category

Fiction/Christian/Adult

Rating

4 Stars

Review

This is a simple story, but with a lot to offer outside entertainment. Through Bethany and Everett’s story, one comes to understand the importance of values in a way that emphasizes acceptance of one’s heritage. In reading this book, I came face-to-face with the known fact that moral standard is relative—to different people, it means different things. Cross-referencing this with a particular character left me disappointed. I’d followed hints of this character throughout books #1 and #2, and so had hoped for better for/from this character. Unfortunately, it didn’t turn out as I’d prayed. That’s not to say I don’t understand Keith’s reasons for allotting this particular character the role that she did, because in doing so, it brought out the theme beautifully and poignantly.

Of worthy mention is the fact that Keith masterfully managed to blend a historical world with a contemporary and techno sci-fi, without any time-travel.

Overall, another well-done piece by Keith.

 

About Christmas with the Colburns

It’s Christmas time in Good Springs, and Lydia Bradshaw is eager for the light at the end of her year—the Colburn family’s big holiday gathering. When she discovers none of her siblings are coming back to the village this year, she believes Christmas will be ruined. As Lydia faces a gloomy holiday in the Colburn house, an unexpected romance brightens her favorite season. Will it be enough to rekindle the light of Christmas?

Spend Christmas with the Colburns in this inspirational holiday novella. If you like the traditional setting and sweet romance of Amish Fiction but are looking for something new, read Christmas with the Colburns today to jump into a fast-paced story of Christmastime in a hidden land.

Holiday recipe included!

Genre

Historical/Contemporary/General

Category

Fiction/Christian/Adult

Rating

4 Stars

Review

This story portrays a theme beyond the traditional Christmas message. With major emphasis on family traditions, one can note that this is a story that can work for just about any season/non-season. Though a novella, and so a fast read, the elements that put the story together aren’t lacking in any way that will disturb the overall wholesomeness of the story. Characterization, plot, setting, and theme are delicately and skillfully handled so that it feels like a novel, too, which in my opinion, is a sweet bonus. The characters of the Uncharted Series, already firmly rooted in their roles by now, take on a different stage than what we’re used to—the Colburns have always been one in everything, but for the first time, as life moves forward with the event of many changes, some traditions had to be let go for new ones to be born. Clearly, the message that man wasn’t made for the benefit of tradition, but vice versa, was something to note and applaud.

*Though I offer these reviews to the public, they’re my opinion and simply that. My appreciation to the author, Keely Brooke Keith, for copies of these books in exchange for my honest opinion.*

 

About the Author

Keely Brooke Keith is the author of The Land Uncharted, Uncharted Redemption, Uncharted Inheritance, and Christmas with the Colburns (Edenbrooke Press), and Aboard Providence (CrossRiver Media, coming 2016). Born in St. Joseph, Missouri, Keely grew up in a family that frequently relocated. By graduation, she lived in 8 states and attended 14 schools. When she isn’t writing stories, Keely enjoys playing bass guitar, preparing homeschool lessons, and collecting antique textbooks. Keely resides on a hilltop south of Nashville with her husband and their daughter. She is a member of ACFW.

Filed under: Author Feature, Book Feature, Book Review Tagged: Adult Fiction, Christian, Christmas with the Colburns, Inspirational, Keely Brooke Keith, The Land Uncharted, Uncharted Inheritance, Uncharted Redemption, Uncharted Series

Interview ~ Dave and Beth Weikel!

It’s my pleasure to introduce to you, Dave and Beth Weikel! It’s truly amazing the work and effort they put into serving God. Despite much pain and sorrow, these two have stood strong and are teaching God’s children all over the world to do the same. Their unwavering faith is quite contagious and something to be admired. I’m honored that they reached out to me during this time of the book tour for their books, Hope in the Midst of Loss, and The Way of Hope, and also for giving me the opportunity to interview them. Please, follow our chat below!

Miranda ~ Welcome to TBAP! Honored to have you stop by! Could you please tell us a bit about yourselves?

Beth – I’ve been the mother of two talented and godly sons, for which my husband and I, are grateful to God. And, I’m the grandmother of a curious and outgoing ten-year-old—Ian’s son—who was nearly eight months old when a roadside IED killed his daddy during his second tour in Iraq, while doing his command with Ghost Troop.

I’ve been a pastor’s wife, published author of articles/features, editor of a Christian news magazine, a secondary English teacher in public school for over twenty years, and, a volunteer in ministry efforts and civic affairs that support healthy community. Since my retirement from full-time employment, I’ve rediscovered time to enjoy my continuing interest in art, photography, music, gardening and design. I am a Bible student and teacher. My husband and I each facilitate small-group discipleship studies; we travel to teach workshops, and provide resources and training online. In the past ten years, God has been my Sustainer, Rock, and Friend. He has brought me through a series of losses I would never have imagined.

Dave – After being discipled into ministry through Peninsula Bible Church’s Intern Program, I have been a pastor in the Colorado Springs area. I’ve also served as a church administrator in California. My ministry would be categorized as verse-by-verse Bible teaching, creative outreach ministries, and in-depth discipleship of men. I also, was a teacher and school administrator focused on leadership skills, to aid organizations.

When God calls us into a season of loss and grief, He becomes our all and all. He meets us where we are and builds into our lives a dependence on Him so that, “we do not rely on ourselves, but on God, who raises the dead” (II Corinthians 1:9). My desire is to share the message of Dependence on the Sufficiency of Christ.

 

Miranda ~ Your ministry is quite a unique one. What’s it about?

Dave & Beth – What is it about? Our guiding belief is: we all have broken hearts. It’s how we deal with this brokenness that determines whether we dwell in life or loss. We direct people to a living and all powerful God to either prepare them for loss in its many forms or give those living in brokenness, hope.  Our emphasis is the Word of God, and how it transforms. Through the Word, God prepares us for battle, and gives us hope.

 

Miranda ~ What led you both to start your ministry?

Dave & Beth – The simple answer—our God. Don’t venture into any ministry without Him. He actually has, often in small steps, led us into the ministry we have today. During the past ten years we’ve experienced repeatedly, significant losses in our lives, which equally taught us significant lessons. After a couple of years of this walk, we had a friend who asked if we would teach a workshop on Loss and What We Are Learning at his annual Bible and worship conference. We said, “We’ll would love to, but we don’t actually have a workshop.” He said, “Well, think about it.”  To make a long story short, we prayed and asked, “What are we learning that could help someone else?” That became the workshop, which we’ve now taught locally, nationally, and internationally.

 

Miranda ~ What challenges have you faced in this ministry and, how have they taught you to rely on God more?

Dave & Beth – Just the nature of the ministry requires dependence. Whenever we meet someone living with brokenness or, if we’re teaching in a more formal setting, true dependence on the strength and wisdom on the Holy Spirit is required. It’s become a real necessity to pray about all we’re called to do and invite God to be involved in every part of our ministry. We acknowledge His leadership and want His methods.

The challenge has been that, at each point where this ministry becomes larger and more complicated, we see the Lord supply people on an “as needed” basis to aid in tasks which require specific expertise—quite humbling and thrilling at the same time! Beth and I have realized we are part of a team with much impact and powerful ideas.

 

Miranda ~ As your ministry grew over time, what did it teach you both to be grateful for?

Dave & Beth – First, we are grateful to be able to use our gifts and worship God in this way. He has used our past skills and vocational experience, as well as provided on-the-job training in this season of our lives. It’s always an adventure!

Also, whether we are busy doing ministry, teaching or writing, it’s clear that God is right next to us, directing our thoughts and our focus. We are also grateful He has taught us to use our strengths to complement each other.

And, while writing these current books with Wesleyan Publishing House, we could see God working with all of us to put the material together. We’ve had a lot of moving parts on this project, along with ample spiritual warfare, and have needed supernatural intervention, regularly. We’re grateful God has been patient with us, and has been so creative!

Finally, we’re especially thankful that the DVD being developed for our workshop enables groups and individuals anywhere in the world to minister to the brokenhearted in their communities. This multiplies the work and healing process so much more than we could ever have accomplished by being present on site or at each place.

 

Miranda ~ You’ve written two books, one of them, together—The Way of Hope and Hope in the Midst of Loss. Why did you decide to write these books, and what message did you hope to pass along?

Dave & Beth – The Way of Hope: Growing Close to God Through Loss  was designed to show God’s strategies in all sorts of trials and affliction. It’s for those who are dealing with such sorrows as job layoffs, doctor reports, divorces, foreclosures, prison sentences, natural disasters or deaths of loved-ones. Many times it’s through brokenness that God can reach the deepest into a heart—we believe this! We want others, through this book, to recover and walk closely with God during and in the aftermath of suffering.

We all long for a light to lead us through hard times. Hope in the Midst of Loss will pierce the looming hopelessness and helpless feelings suffering often brings into our lives.  Beth compassionately leads anyone who reads this book into hope that surpasses all understanding. Through engaging stories from her own and others’ experiences, including those from the Bible, she shines the light of God’s Word upon the reader’s own circumstances, to give direction and a path to life.

 

Miranda ~ In retrospect, what would you have done differently in this ministry that you didn’t do before? How has this made you better ministers?

Dave & Beth – Hard to say, really. God has proven faithful and sovereign. As we stated before, it’s been a process where God has been involved from the beginning. Every believer has a ministry, and it begins by asking where we are sent. As we spend time with the Lord, He reveals this. We suggest placing one’s thoughts and desires in prayer to Him.  Also, have others pray for your direction, as well. The one thing we find ourselves doing more these days is praying—not doing anything unless we pray.

 

Miranda ~ What word of advice/wisdom would you both give to anyone who wants to venture into a ministry similar to yours? 

Dave & Beth – It is vital to have it be God’s idea and not merely theirs.  Pray constantly. Be prepared. In addition to our other qualifications and training, Beth and I became disaster relief chaplains with Rapid Response Team, in the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. Their rigorous preparation seemed a natural complement to all we saw ourselves doing.  It’s also vital to have life experiences that relate to their ministry emphasis.  Finally, build a team that will help when needed. 

*We are asking God to give us workshop (DVD) facilitators that would work in their local church or community to make available this teaching.  If you are interested in this, contact Dave at 719-339-6259.*

Thank you, Dave and Beth, for stopping by today! May God bless your ministry and effort!

 

 

About Hope in the Midst of Loss

Sorrow visits all of us in many forms: job layoffs, doctor reports, divorces, foreclosures, prison sentences, natural disasters, or deaths of loved ones. Whatever the circumstance, it is in these places that our souls long for a light that will pierce the looming hopelessness. Author, Beth Weikel, compassionately leads her readers along the pathway of loss—one that she herself has traveled many times—into the hope that surpasses all understanding. Through engaging stories from her own and others’ experiences, she shines the light of God’s Word upon a well-worn path of suffering. Her poignant and moving devotionals allow readers to press through their darkest journeys, sometimes asking themselves and God the hard questions, and finding the answers that only His Spirit can reveal.

 

 

 

About The Way of Hope

Sorrow visits all of us in many forms: job layoffs, doctor reports, divorces, foreclosures, prison sentences, natural disasters, or deaths of loved ones. But sometimes it is through brokenness that God can reach deepest into a heart. Veteran sufferers and authors, Beth and David Weikel, help readers follow Jesus, leading all who will follow through the way of suffering that God’s Son knows so intimately, and into His very real here-and-now hope.

 

 

 

 

 

 

About Dave and Beth

 

Dave and Beth Weikel have worked in full-time ministry, business, and public education for over 30 years. God is using their season of loss to provide hope and healing for others.

“Over six years ago, an intense period of loss touched our lives in myriad ways: a life-threatening illness, the death of our son serving in Iraq and strained family relationships surrounding this event, elder care and the home-going of three parents in less than a year, a near-fatal car accident of our other son, and a few others. What we are learning, because this is not finished yet, is to trust in the faithfulness of our Lord in unseen ways.”

Trained as disaster relief chaplains, and former career educators with experience in full-time ministry, Dave and Beth have walked through their own intense season of loss. Its heartbreak and upheaval has taught them to cling to what cannot be taken away, and has challenged them to wring purpose and meaning from those times of suffering. “God has afforded us opportunities to proclaim a clear message of hope and redemption through discipleship, partnering with local, national, and international organizations that reach out to desperate populations looking for answers and help.” Learn more about Dave and Beth, and their ministry on their website, By His Design.

Filed under: Author Feature, Author Interview, Book Feature, Faith Testimony, Inspirational, Spirituality, Virtual Blog Tour Tagged: Christian Non-fiction, Dave and Beth Weikel, Hope in the Midst of Loss, Inspirational Non-fiction, The Way of Hope

Book Review ~ The Bartered Bride by Lena Goldfinch

About the Book

Jem Wheeler has always been a survivor. He just wants to make a fresh start in Colorado Springs after the loss of his wife. But then he happens upon a young mute woman being sold off to the highest bidder. He wasn’t looking for a mail-order bride. He wasn’t looking to rescue anyone either. But desperate circumstances can drive a good man to do things he hadn’t planned on doing…

When Jem steps into Annie’s life, she’s not expecting anyone to save her. Mute from birth, she’s just using all her wits to survive. All she’s ever really wanted is a family of her own. For someone to see her. To look at her long enough to hear the things she can’t say.

Can a rescued bride who can’t speak communicate her love for a grieving widower and his little girl? Will her love ever be returned?

Genre

Historical Romance

Category

Inspirational/Christian

Rating

4 Stars

Review

The Bartered Bride turned out to be quite different from what I expected, but in a good way.  Some outcomes I’d hoped for turned out differently, but I could see the author’s point.

This story may appear simple, but it is in fact more complex than it seems—different themes interwoven to pass across a myriad of inspirational teachings, some more easily discerned than others: from the story of a man whose life portrayed that the most painful of losses and wounds can be healed, to that of a mute woman whose story showed that there’s hope for the abandoned, and that anyone can find true love and be blessed by God. These are just two wonderful messages. The story is packed with so much more, and, no, it’s not overdone!

While I’m without doubt that The Bartered Bride can be enjoyed by all, I believe it will be better appreciated by mature minds.

Overall, this is another well done work by Lena Goldfinch. Goldfinch has become one of my favorite authors, one whose work I always look forward to reading!

*Though I offer this review to the public, it’s my opinion and simply that. My appreciation to Amber Stokes and the author, Lena Goldfinch, for a free copy in exchange for my honest opinion*

Buy the Series!

The Bartered Bride

Kindle | Nook | Kobo | iTunes

The Unexpected Bride

Kindle | Nook | Kobo | iTunes

Sleigh Bells & Mistletoe

Kindle | Nook | Kobo | iTunes

A Lovely Sneak Peek!

Jem took the apple core from his daughter and passed her one of the remaining crackers with a piece of cheese on it. Mae munched that down and looked to him immediately for another, the last one.

He gave it to her, then showed her his empty hands.

She frowned. “More?”

“No more,” Jem said, and showed her his empty hands again, making a bigger gesture out of it, as if the little girl was accusing him of hiding some.

If Annie weren’t so intent on eating her share of cheese and crackers she might have smiled at the sight of them, one of the most dangerous men she’d ever seen sitting side by side with that tiny little girl. They made quite a mismatched pair.

Mae looked over at Annie, at the last cracker in her hand and the last bit of cheese.

Annie gulped down the mouthful she was chewing. She looked down at the last of her meal and back at the little girl. To her shame, she didn’t want to give up her last cracker. She could barely remember the last meal she’d eaten.

“That’s Annie’s food,” Jem admonished the little girl. “You’ve had yours.”

Mae bit her lip. She glanced down at her lap, then back at Annie again.

I can share, Annie attempted to tell Mae with her eyes alone. She snapped her cracker in half—simply unable to bear parting with the whole thing—and passed it across to the little girl. Mae took it and popped the whole thing in her mouth, making Annie smile.

“Mae!” her father said.

She looked at him wide-eyed, her mouth full of cracker. “Whaf dafdda?” she said, muffled, spraying a few cracker crumbs onto his trousers.

He closed his eyes briefly and brushed them off. “You didn’t have to give her any,” he said to Annie, “but thanks.”

Annie grunted, her way of saying she didn’t mind that much. She looked down quickly and finished her last bit of food. The crackers had been crispy and the cheese silky and smooth. They’d tasted like heaven.

“You must be thirsty,” he said. “Do you mind sharing?”

She shook her head and automatically lifted two fingers.

“Two’s no?” he asked.

She nodded, pleased, and lifted one finger. She’d grown up sending signals through the floor of the Ruskins’ house, one stomp for yes, two for no. It came natural as rain now.

“And one’s yes,” he said, catching on quick.

Annie drank deep when he passed her the flask of water, amazed he’d let her drink from it. She tried her best to pour it down her throat without touching her lips to the flask, so he wouldn’t regret giving it to someone so dirty. She wished she could tell him thanks, but after Mae had her fill and he took his own swallow, he was back under his hat, likely going over the events of the day.

How he’d stuck himself with her.

How he probably regretted even stepping off the train at the last stop.

She couldn’t say she blamed him.

She hadn’t much wanted to marry a stranger herself.

About the Author

LENA GOLDFINCH writes sweet Historical Western Romance / Inspirational Romance and books for teens. She’s always been a sucker for a good old-fashioned romance, whether it’s a novel or short story, young adult or adult, fantasy or realistic, contemporary or historical. Lena has been a finalist in several national writing contests, including the RWA Golden Heart and ACFW Genesis contests. She enjoys life in a quiet, small town with her husband, two kids, and two very spoiled Black Labs.

Connect with Lena through her social links!

Website | Facebook Profile | Facebook Author Page | Pinterest | Twitter

Filed under: Author Feature, Book Excerpts, Book Feature, Book Review Tagged: Book Review, Christian Fiction, Historical Romance, Inspirational Fiction, Lena Goldfinch, Sleigh Bells and Mistletoe, The Bartered Bride, The Unexpected Bride

Interview ~ Discover! Music Artist, Nicole “Coley” Jones!

I’m delighted to introduce an upcoming singer/songwriter, Nicole Jones! She’s a bright young lady, and I absolutely love her work! I first discovered her on—well, you guessed—twitter! I’ve been following her progress since then. Thankfully, she sweetly agreed to an interview on TBAP. And, oh! Did I forget to mention she’s met Britt Nicole and even performed with a couple of other cool artists? Super, right? Yeah! So, without much further ado, follow our chat below!

 

Miranda: Hello Coley! Happy to have you visit TBAP. Please tell us a bit about yourself.

Coley – Hi there! My name is Coley and I am a Christian singer/songwriter! I am 17 years old, currently living in Chattanooga, TN!

 

Miranda: You’re a Christian whose love for Jesus is quite evident! When did you accept Him in your heart?

Coley – I accepted Jesus in my heart on February 24, 2006; I was 9 years old. It is a date I will never forget. As a young girl, my family and I were very active in church. I so loved attending Sunday school and GA’s, and also participating in church choir and musicals. I began growing very close to the Lord at a young age. I am very thankful for the Christian family and church family I was raised in.

 

Miranda: Your music ministry is quite inspiring. When did it all begin?

Coley – I have always loved singing. Like I mentioned in the last question, I grew up singing in church: choir, musicals, and concerts. My church provided me with many opportunities to sing for the Lord. I began playing the guitar at 10 years old. At 11 years old, I wrote me first song. Since then, God has continued to open doors for me to share my music for His glory.

 

Miranda: Can you list some of your favorite music artists?

Coley – I have MANY favorites! Some are Moriah Peters, Britt Nicole, Needtobreathe, Among The Thirsty, Unspoken, Colton Dixon, Tim Timmons, Jamie Grace, and JJ Heller.

 

Miranda: Who are those who’ve inspired you to do what you do today? How have they done so?

Coley – Britt Nicole is an artist who has inspired me in my music career! Her love for the Lord is evident in her music and life. I got to see her in concert when I was 11 years old. After the concert, I attended her meet & greet. I shared with her that I wanted to be a singer/songwriter and she prayed for me and my music career right there on the spot! I will never forget how she took the time to encourage me! As a young girl, that meant so much to me! That moment inspired me to take the time to pray and connect with people I get to meet at my shows.

 

Miranda: How has your ministry helped your personal walk with God? How has it taught you to depend on Him?

Coley – I start and end my day in God’s Word and prayer. It is in these times that I get the inspirations for my songs. I write my songs based on specific Bible verses (like Masterpiece inspired by Ephesians 2:10 and Whosoever inspired by Romans 10:13). As I work on a song, I dive deeper into His Word and gain a better understanding of it, helping me in my songwriting and also growing my relationship with the Lord.

 

Miranda: Can you please list some of your works and, perhaps, provide links? Thank you!

Coley – You can check out some of my songs at youtube.com/coleyband

 

Miranda: Have you worked/started working with other artists/music producers? Can you list some of them? Also, who do you hope to work with in the future?

Coley – I am currently working on getting in the studio with a producer in Nashville, TN! I am so excited to release some new music soon! I have had a couple Christian artists ask to co-write. I am very excited for that to happen soon!

 

Miranda: As you write music/sing, what do you hope to pass across to your listeners?

Coley – Through my music, I hope to pass the message to be bold and spread the Good News! God has given us all a platform to share His love! Through our faith, he has also given us a Christ-confidence to be bold.  (Ephesians 3:12)

 

Miranda: What do you hope to accomplish through music?

Coley – One of my favorite Bible verses is Mark 16:15 that says “And He said unto them, Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” That is exactly what I want to do through my music.

 

Miranda: As opposed to secular, why did you choose to go into Christian music ministry?

Coley – When I started writing songs at a very young age, they were about cupcakes, my blue-jean jacket, and my dog. :) I asked my parents what I should write about next, and they told me to write whatever was in my heart. I responded, “Jesus is in my heart.” Since that day, I have always written songs for Him!

 

 

Miranda: How would you compare your journey now to the time when it was just a dream? Did it turn out exactly as you’d hoped? What do you hope for in the future?

Coley – I am amazed with the opportunities God has given me and the doors He has opened for me. I am so blessed and thankful for the gifts He has given me to use for Him. His plan for me is better than anything I could ever dream of.

 

Miranda: At this point in your life, what are you most grateful for?

Coley – I am grateful for my family who have been so supportive of me and my music ministry. Their love and prayers are a great encouragement.

 

Miranda: What word of wisdom would you give anyone venturing into the Christian music ministry?

Coley – My advice to those wanting to get into the Christian music industry would be the same advice my parents gave me—to “write what’s in your heart.” And, to all the youth out there, you’re never too young.  1 Timothy 4:12 says, “Do not let anyone think less of you because you are young, but be an example to all believers…”

 

THIS or THAT (The fun Questions!)

Coffee, Tea or Mocha? – Coffeeeeeeeee

Roses or Lilies? Roses

TV or Magazine? Magazine

Dresses or Pants? Dresses. LOVE vintage styles! :)

Rain or Snow? Rain! Perfect for a cup of coffee and a good book :)

Spring or Fall? Fall. Sweaters!!

Summer or Winter? Winter

Chocolate or Vanilla? Chocolate! Especially chocolate chip cookies. :)

Vegetables or Fruits? Fruits

Breakfast or Dinner? Breakfast. Most important meal of the day!

Flats or Heels? Heels

Movies or Books? BOOKS! You can always find me in the Christian Fiction section in the bookstore!

Gym or Outdoor? Outdoor

 

Thank you, Coley, for visiting TBAP today!

Thanks again!

Blessings,

Coley

 

About Nicole “Coley” Jones

At age 17, Christian singer/songwriter Coley is not ashamed to tell the whole world that God is alive! Through her music, Coley desires to encourage others to be bold. At her young age, she has already developed the ability to speak, write, and sing the praises of God, uniquely. Her acoustic guitar skills and strong voice are captivating. The lyrics to her songs are deep and true to God’s word. Living in Chattanooga, TN, Coley has worked hard to release her first EP, entitled I’ll Go, based on the Bible verse Mark 16:15, and a single, Different, which was inspired by 1 Peter 2:9.

Coley frequently spreads God’s love through her music in Nashville, Tennessee. She also performs at many local events, such as The Courage, a 72 hour worship event with artists that include Big Daddy Weave, Chris August, and Unspoken. Recently, she opened SoulStock, a worship event with Building 429, Sanctus Real, and Love & the Outcome. Coley has also performed at Riverbend Festival in Chattanooga, TN with headliner TobyMac. Currently, Coley is a part of the Activate Tour with Ryan Wesley Smith, Royal Tailor, John Luke Robertson, and many others, to activate the next generation in the gospel. She was also in concert with Colton Dixon as part of Ground Zero’s Sunday Celebrations in Myrtle Beach, SC. Coley has been featured on many radio stations and in multiple newspapers. She is often invited to lead worship at several churches in the Southeast area. Coley is thankful for the path of opportunity and experience God has blessed her with that is leading her to spread the good news. Her exciting journey has already taken her to Alabama, Georgia, Florida, New York, Arizona, Ohio, Kentucky, and Tennessee! Connect with Coley on facebook and twitter! (Bio culled from Nicole Jones’ Official website with permission.)

Filed under: Entertainment, Entertainment Interview, Faith Testimony, Inspirational, Music, Music Artist Interview Tagged: Christian Music, Inspirational Music, Music, Nicole Coley Jones

Movie Review ~ Providence

Genre

Drama/Romance

Category

Christian/Inspirational

Premiere Date

November 8, 2015

Rating

4 Stars

Review

This is a movie that I’d been looking forward to watching since , the writer/director, first mentioned the initial idea of the story. And I’m glad Faith Flix went through with full production!

and in Providence Movie.

Though a silent movie, it speaks volumes! This is a story of two people that found each other when they were very young, but also lost each other due to a misunderstanding. But through divine providence, they found each other again after many years had passed—a love story! And, quite touching, too.

and in Providence Movie.

and , the lead actors, were beautiful to watch. I truly appreciate their art. To be able to portray the heart of a story and the true meaning of a movie, without words, require much skill, and these two have that! is another talented actress that graced this movie. Her acting made it so easy to understand her character. (To learn more about , , and , and their experience on the Providence set, read their interviews on TBAP here, here and here.)

and Meek on a playground in the Providence Movie. To read their interview on TBAP and learn more about their experience on the Providence Movie set, go here.

The theme of this love story? No matter the mistakes you’ve made in the past, with God and His divine providence, there’s always hope for love, and for a beautiful and fulfilled life!

Overall, this was a sweet and wonderful movie with a lesson in hope and faith. Though there were a few technicalities that weren’t top notch, they didn’t hurt my overall enjoyment of this movie at all.

*Though I offer this review to the public, it’s my opinion and simply that. A thank you to and Faith Flix for an exclusive link that allowed me to watch this movie for free in exchange for my honest opinion*

**Coming to theaters February 12, 2016**

Follow Providence movie on facebook and twitter!

Filed under: Actors, Christian Movies, Entertainment, Inspirational, Movie Promo, Movie Review Tagged: Christian Movie Reviews, Christian Movies, Faith Flix Films, Inspirational Movies, Juli Tapken Actress, Providence Movie, Rich Swingle Actor, Sharon Wilharm Director

The Four Cardinal Points of a Joyful Life

Life won’t always have happy moments, but you can decide to be a joyful soul and live a joyful life. This isn’t easy, but with discipline, you can achieve this lifestyle. Below, are what I believe are the four cardinal points of a joyful life:

Love Everyone. Including your enemies. How else would you stand out from among those who love only the people that love them back? What then makes you special or different? Hatred is a lot of work. Don’t waste time plotting against someone who is probably unaware of how you feel, when you can spend that time planning a healthy future for yourself, family, ministry/career, and even serving others.
Forgive Everything. The lesson that, you forgive to set yourself free, isn’t new. Besides, like hatred, unforgiveness, anger, and bitterness are a lot of work, a waste of time, and such heavy burden to carry. Cathy Bryant, in her book, The Fragrance of Crushed Violets, acknowledges that what needs forgiving isn’t usually forgivable in the eyes of the world. If it were, then it wouldn’t beg forgiveness in the first place. One would simply or easily brush off the offense and move on. This means that, whomever you need to forgive most likely doesn’t deserve it. But if you will let go of your pained past to embrace a healthy future, then, you must forgive. Ask anyone who’s entered a marriage, or any other kind of relationship, with baggage, and they’ll probably tell you it didn’t it go well until they’d let go of their hurtful past.
Be Thankful for All Things. This is one attitude that teaches you contentment, even as you aspire for greater and better things, as you journey in life. It is also one thing that can differentiate you from someone with foolish and vicious ambition. Ambition is good—as long as it doesn’t hurt other people. One way to secure a healthy ambitious attitude is to be grateful for what you have now, and for the people around you. Also, we shouldn’t only be thankful for all things, but in all situations as well. This is a good way to secure your hope, and insure your faith. To be ungrateful, is to be unhappy. It is only when you start to count your blessings daily that you realize that you’re more privileged than some of your peers. And if you’re honest, you also realize that when you look closely enough, you’re not really deserving of every single good thing that comes your way, but these blessings are given to you anyway. So, if you’ll be joyful, especially in this season of the holidays, then you must be thankful!
Complain of Nothing. I realized something—it’s when I complain about a matter that I become more angry. On the flip side, when I say positive things about a person or situation, I’m less likely to be offended and more prone to forgiveness. Situations don’t always appear as bad as they seem until I start to badmouth them to myself, in my mind. That taught me to try to see the positive and redeeming qualities of people and situations as much as possible. Besides, complaining never solves the problem, but makes you appear immature. Finally, it makes no sense that people/circumstances determine your attitude towards life and other people. If that’s the case, then you, my friend, are as unstable as the waves of the sea.

Want to have a joyful life? Then love, forgive, be thankful, and don’t complain!

Happy, happy, holidays!

Filed under: Christianity, Inspirational, Personal Development, Spirituality Tagged: Christian, Forgiveness, Gratefulness, Inspirational, Love, Non-complaint, Thankfulness

Book Review ~ To Get to You by Joanne Bischof

About the Book

To get to the girl he loves, Riley Kane must head off on a road trip with the father he never knew. Then pray for a miracle.

Most teens would love to have a pro surfer for a dad. Just not Riley. Abandoned as a kid, he hates the sound of the ocean and the man who gave himself to it.

When the eighteen-year-old learns that his best friend is stranded at a New Mexico hospital as her father fights for his life, Riley hits the highway to head east. But when his Jeep breaks down before he even leaves California, he must rely on the one man he despises to get to the girl who needs him the most. And when it comes to the surfer with the Volkswagen van and dog-eared map, a thousand miles may–or may not–be enough to heal the past.

A story of new beginnings and second chances.

 

Genre

Contemporary Romance

Category

Christian/YA

Rating

5 Stars

Review

What a story! Another fiver, I tell you (meaning five-star worthy.)

What can I say? Joanne Bischof has done it again!

There were two tales flowing from this beautiful piece of story—one, of a blossoming romance between a boy and a girl, and the other, of the healing of a broken relationship between a father and his son. Both stories were so beautiful! I found myself smiling from start to finish. Following this story was like watching snowflakes gently settle on grass freshly sprung with the dawning of Spring until it melted and sunk into the earth, giving earth and grass a renewed look—a beautiful sight, wouldn’t you say? At least that’s what this story felt like. This is why I always look forward to Joanne’s books. Her penmanship is simply exquisite, charming and magical. I believe that her heart and spirit are touched by God to bless the hearts and souls of anyone who’d just pick up her book and read. I can say emphatically that Joanne (and her writing) is a gift to our generation and the ones to come!

And the theme? No! I couldn’t forget to mention it—second chances are priceless! We may not always deserve them, but they are beautiful to us when given, as the people that give them. The least we could do is pass it forward to anyone who needs it. I love that!

Thank you, Joanne, for another lovely read!

*Though I offer this review to the public, it is my opinion and simply that. A Thank you to Joanne Bischof, the author, for a free copy in exchange for my honest opinion*

About the Author

Christy Award-finalist and author of The Cadence of Grace series and This Quiet Sky, Joanne Bischof, has a deep passion for heartfelt stories that shine light on God’s grace and goodness. She lives in the mountains of Southern California with her husband and their three children.

Filed under: Author Feature, Book Feature, Book Review Tagged: Christian Fiction, Contemporary Romance, Joanne Bischof, To Get to You, Wild Air #1