My Review of "The Sacred Thread"

When Momentum Influencers Network (MIN) asked me to review “The Sacred Thread” docuseries by Angel Studios, I agreed because it sounded like a wonderful opportunity to dig deeper into God’s Word (The Holy Bible) and understand what The Lord’s Prayer truly means, which is what this series is centered on. After watching all seven episodes that were each about 30 minutes long, I had a better understanding of The Lord’s Prayer. Now, I want to share my review of this helpful resource with you!

But before I share my review with you, I’d like to share a few words from Momentum Influencers Network about this inspirational docuseries:

Most people know The Lord’s Prayer. Very few understand the world, language, and meaning behind it. The Sacred Thread takes viewers deep into the historical and cultural context of Scripture, helping audiences experience The Lord’s Prayer the way Jesus’ original audience would have heard it. This is not just another Bible study. It’s a cinematic journey through the land, history, language, and deeper meaning of one of the most important prayers ever spoken.

Angel continues to create thoughtful, high-quality series that make Scripture feel alive, relevant, and deeply personal.

These are the target audiences for “The Sacred Thread”

Primary Audiences:

● Christians and faith-based audiences

● Bible study groups and church communities

● Viewers interested in Biblical history and context

● Families looking for meaningful, spiritually enriching content

● Audiences who enjoy Scripture-focused documentaries and teaching series


Secondary Audiences:

● Young adults exploring faith more deeply

● People wanting to better understand the Bible

● Fans of thoughtful, cinematic nonfiction storytelling

● Viewers who enjoy historical and cultural exploration

The Sacred Thread is a cinematic documentary series exploring the Lord’s Prayer through the historical, cultural, geographical, and literary world in which Jesus first spoke it. Hosted by Brad Gray and featuring insights from scholars including N.T. Wright, the series takes viewers across biblical landscapes to uncover the deeper meaning and context behind one of the most well-known prayers in Scripture.

Through cinematic storytelling and accessible scholarship, the series invites audiences to see Scripture with fresh eyes and rediscover the richness, depth, and relevance of the Biblical text.

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My Review of “The Sacred Thread” series:

“The Sacred Thread” series is hosted by Brad Gray. Everything about this docuseries is well done. It is equally educational as it is inspirational.

The cinematic storytelling style of this series truly drew me in. I couldn’t stop watching it so I binge-watched all seven episodes in only two days.

I appreciated the deep dive into the culture and heritage of the people who lived in the ancient world during the time the Bible was being written. It helped me understand the historical context and background of the Bible. I also appreciated that each episode was no more than 30 minutes long because that made it easier to digest. The way each episode was structured proved to be clear, concise and very rich in the story being told.

Every episode was informational and inspiring in a way that stays with you. But the one that resonated with me most deeply was the third episode, titled, “Holy Be Your Name”. This is what stood out to me:

I was impressed to learn what it means to hallow God’s name. They said that taking the Lord’s name in vain doesn’t mean to use His name as a swear word; it means misrepresenting Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. It reminds me of the Gospel music song “Wear Your Name” by Gylchris Sprauve.

I loved learning about how the term for the rich color “Royal blue” was coined and learning why God wanted His people to have this color on the clothes they wore. Brad Gray (the host) said, “Blue held significant value in the ancient world because it was arduous to make and hard to come by. This was a color used only for people of high standing or of royalty. Hence, the designation “Royal blue” and God called His people to have this color on them.”

Blue, purple and scarlet were the principal colors in the Tabernacle design. And therefore, they played the leading role in the visual representation of God’s dwelling here on Earth. Another fact: Blue was the predominant color of the clothes work by the high priests. They said, “The high priests and the priests were responsible for mediating on behalf of God to the Israelites. But the Israelites as a whole were responsible for mediating on behalf of God to the rest of the world. And that blue cord was a reminder of their identity and mission as a kingdom of priests.”

They also said, “The other implication for why God chose blue revolved around status. Remember, the Israelites prior to the exodus had the identity of slaves. Now, they’re being instructed to wear blue, the color of royalty. From rags to royalty quite literally. God wanted His people to remember daily who they were. So, when they looked down and saw the blue cord contrasting against the white ones, they were reminded that they wore the priestly color, they carried the name of God and they were valued as treasured royalty.”

The final powerful point that they said during this episode was about salt and its Biblical role in Christian living. They said, “While we think of salt primarily as a seasoning, in a world without refrigeration, salt was used as a preservative to make food last longer. And because of this, salt became a symbol in the Hebrew Scriptures for God’s long lasting covenant faithfulness to His people. So, when Jesus says you are the salt of the earth, He’s saying that’s you, that’s your identity. When you follow God’s commandments and carry His name well, you’re preserving life in a world of decay.”

All the episodes were good but this one (Episode 3) was the most well-thought, planned and presented one that really had special significance that can apply to our journey with Jesus Christ in our modern-day era. I was most inspired by this one.

If you want to know more about the meaning of The Lord’s Prayer as well as learn more about the Bible, then “The Sacred Thread” series is for you. Each episode focuses on a verse of The Lord’s Prayer then breaks it down with historical context and Biblical accuracy. The way this is done is second to none. I hope you will sign up for the Angel Guild and watch every episode in this docuseries. God bless you!

Disclosure: Many thanks to Angel for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

#TheSacredThreadMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

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More information:

"The Sacred Thread" is available now for you to stream on Angel.

Visit the official website for “The Sacred Thread” on Angel Guild:

https://www.angel.com/shows/sacred-thread

Join the Angel Guild and support stories that bring meaning, hope, and purpose back to entertainment.

Movie Review: Light of the World

Momentum Influencer Network (MIN) invited me to watch an early screening of Light of the World movie about Jesus Christ’s ministry and mission on Earth. Of course, I said yes! Before I share my review of this movie, let me share a few words from MIN:

This beautiful, 2D-animated story of Jesus is told through the eyes of his young friend, the Apostle John. From the beginning of Jesus’ ministry through his crucifixion and resurrection, LIGHT OF THE WORLD powerfully illustrates how Jesus of Nazareth changed the world forever and still changes lives today!

Light of the World movie opens in theaters on September 5, 2025.

If you are a fan of the 1990s golden era of 2D, hand-drawn animation, you will love this movie! This is the first movie from Salvation Poem Project, a ministry committed to sharing Jesus with the world. Director John Schafer was the producer of the beloved program Superbook. It truly is a family movie the whole family will love!

Show your support by going to the opening weekend (Sept. 4-7 ... special early showings on Thursday). If you have a group of 10 or more people, you can get group tickets for just $7.50 a person. #LightoftheWorldMIN

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My Review:

This movie, Light of the World, is such a beautiful portrayal of the life and ministry of our Savior (Jesus Christ)! The Bible says that Jesus is Light of the world. According to John 8:12 (ESV), “Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” This movie does a wonderful job of bringing that Scripture alive through a very creative yet Biblical style of storytelling.

This is the first 2D, hand-drawn animation that I’ve seen in my lifetime thus far. I was a bit skeptical at first but the storytelling won me over in the first few minutes. I loved the personal touch of telling this story through the perspective of Apostle John. I appreciated the family-oriented nature of this film. I like how the faith journey of the main characters in this movie was realistic showing not just the highs but the lows of being a disciple of Jesus Christ and getting to know Him as your Lord and Savior. I especially appreciated how at the end of this movie, there was an altar call as well as a QR Code for anyone watching the movie who wants to give their life to Jesus Christ and trust Him with their heart. Such a beautiful opportunity!

If you are a new believer in God, an experienced follower of Jesus Christ or someone who doesn’t read the Bible and never heard about our Savior then this is a movie for you to watch! It’s family-friendly for all ages. I highly recommend it!

~*~

Learn more about this movie by opening the links below:

Light of the World official movie trailer
https://youtu.be/rGd9zO_lvU4?si=hP6Vfqi4ynAVp5yK

The Heart of Light of the World
https://youtu.be/Vime_hl3KLE?si=DT8qK2PFslBt6wxj

Visit the movie’s official website for more information:
https://lightoftheworld.com/

Watch Jean Thomason interview Brennan McPherson who is the producer of this movie:
https://youtu.be/MreyQlPq-VQ?si=NesG36u7ihkX7-MK

~*~

Disclosure: Many thanks to Salvation Poem for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

A Wonderful Movie Worth Watching this Christmas holiday season

My Review of "Journey to Bethlehem" movie

Today, I have another movie review for you and a giveaway contest at the end of this post! 

Momentum Influencers Network asked me to review the movie/musical Journey to Bethlehem. This is a movie from Sony AFFIRM Films. I watched this beautifully told, encouraging, educational and inspirational film before it was released. This movie—truly a musical—was so good! I’m eager to share my review with you. First, I’d like to describe the storyline in the words of talking points from Momentum then I’ll share my thoughts (review). 

Here’s the synopsis of the movie with words from Momentum and me: A young woman carrying an unimaginable responsibility. A young man torn between love and honor. A jealous king who will stop at nothing to keep his crown. This live-action Christmas musical adventure for the entire family weaves classic Christmas melodies with humor, faith, and new pop songs in a retelling of the greatest story ever told—the story of Mary and Joseph and the birth of Jesus. A unique new entry into the collection of holiday classic movies, this epic Christmas musical is unlike any before it. 

See Journey to Bethlehem in theaters beginning November 10, 2023.

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Now for my review:

Journey to Bethlehem is a movie/musical that’s worth its weight in gold. 

The storyline was smooth, the acting was superb, the music was engaging and hats off to the Director of Photography for making such a beautiful film! This movie is one that most Bible-reading people will know well because it tells the story of Jesus Christ in how He came to Earth born of a virgin (Mary) to save the world.

Antonio Banderas played King Herod. He did a very good job of portraying the king as a menacing, self-absorbed, evil ruler who only cared about power not people. Milo Manheim played Joseph. He was very convincing in his portrayal of this character, especially the scenes where Mary told him she’s with child and he didn’t believe her at all. He also showed a heroic side several times when he saved and protected Mary later on in the movie. Fiona Palomo played Mary (the Mother of Jesus Christ). Her performance was compelling. Palomo really captured the innocence and bravery of Mary that rang true to how The Holy Bible portrays her in Scripture. Joel Smallbone played Antipater and his real-life wife Moriah played Deborah. They are musicians in real-life, talents that helped them play their part in every time they had to sing and dance in this musical. Lecrae played Gabriel (the angel who told Mary she’s going to carry Jesus Christ). He had humor mixed in with the sacred in his role. I liked how he balanced both while maintaining the seriousness of his part in this film.

The directors of Journey to Bethlehem, with the support of everyone involved, did a marvelous work in bringing the “Story of Jesus” as they call it in Christian circles—especially during the Christmas season—to life. Yes, they took some creative license in their storytelling, as expected, but it was still wonderful!

If you’re looking for a film to see this weekend—or anytime this year or in the future—that’s as educational as it is inspirational, watch Journey to Bethlehem.

~*~

Final Notes:

This is a perfect movie to invite your friends and family to! Buy tickets today at https://tickets.journeytobethlehemmovie.com/

Listen to the soundtrack album: 

https://journeytobethlehem.lnk.to/soundtrack

Give the gift of giving and make someone’s Christmas brighter by providing tickets for Journey to Bethlehem: https://fandango.egifter.com/journeytobethlehem

See the movie trailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EFXcEWalXBI

This movie, Journey to Bethlehem, reminded me two Christmas songs:

“Not that Far from Bethlehem” by Point of Grace
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DrajpqBgsg0

“His Plan” by Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7GeC7q2R248

A Giveaway just for you: The giveaway is a chance for you to win two free tickets to see Journey to Bethlehem in theaters. We can only accept U.S. winners. 

Here is the Giveaway Contest link:
http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/f8dcb68c477/?

Disclosure: Many thanks to AFFIRM Films, Inc. for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own. 

#JourneyToBethlehemMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

Devotionals for the Heart: Poems

We are the Poems of God
A devotional by Voni Harris

“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” –Ephesians 2:10 (ESV)

What do “Ode to a Grecian Urn,” “Cat in the Hat,” “The Road Not Taken,” and “Where the Sidewalk Ends,” all have in common?

They are all poetry.

Yes, John Keats, Dr. Seuss, Robert Frost and Shel Silverstein were all poets. Such a great variety of poetry, each poet individual and personal.

Each poem individual and personal.

Each reader individual and personal.

But did you know that you are a poem?

Yes. In Ephesians 2:10, Paul calls us Christ’s “workmanship.” That’s sweet to hear, and stirs us to do the good works God prepared for us to do.

When you take a moment to look at that word workmanship, though, there is brain explosion, full of color and beautiful sound, for the word is translated from the original Greek word poiema, which means “something made.” In this context, it means, something made by God!

Just think!

God did not run some raw materials through a human creation factory.

He created each of us … He created you … individually, personally, purposefully, skillfully, artfully. With a huge diversity. He did so the way the poets write, only perfectly, and to a level we cannot comprehend with our human minds.

And He loves us.

So let’s go out and get on these good works He has prepared for us to do!

You may ask, “Wait, what good works?”

Allow me to answer in storytelling style…

I’ve seen two movies recently that provoked me to look at that. Sports movies like Overcomers. Running movies like Chariots of Fire. I loved each one!

In Chariots of Fire, Eric Liddell says, “When I run, I feel the pleasure of God.” In real life, he stated, “I believe God made me for China.” Liddell knew deep in his soul why God made him: to be a missionary in China. His running feats and his Olympic gold message gave him a platform to share Christ and prepared him for China.

How did Liddell know this deep in his soul?

In Overcomers, the coach is urged to do one thing: strip away all he does and discover who he is.

It’s about our identity in Christ.

Regardless of your identity or title be it that you are a spouse, a parent, a teacher, a doctor, a writer, an athlete, a victim, or alone … your identity as a child of God, your title of being a Christ-follower is what really matters.

Remember this: Those identities and titles that describe us to each other and show us our place in this world, don’t matter unless they come from who you are in Christ. And that starts with the word we looked at from the beginning of this blog …

Workmanship.

Poiema.

Strip away all the things you "do" that define you and seek to understand who you are in Christ then watch Him change your world!

After all, we are each God’s unique poem to the world.

~*~
Author Bio:

Voni Harris writes from her family’s home on the rain forest island of Kodiak, Alaska.

A legal-eagle husband, a breathtaking daughter, an adventurous grandson, and two enthusiastic dogs all conspire to keep her from spending too much time at the computer.

She holds a Radio-TV degree from Drake University, and her short story “The Wedding” was published in Heart-Stirring Stories of Romance.

Voni's novel Nothing Hidden won the 2013 ACFW’s First Impressions contest and the 2015 Daphne du Maurier unpublished inspy suspense category. It was also a 2018 ACFW Genesis finalist.

Worth 1,000 Words: Caroline Logan Photography

Mr. Cameron and Mrs. Alexandra Roberts on their wedding day
Photo credit: Caroline Logan Photography 

Welcome to the final feature for my "Worth 1,000 Words" series! It's been an adventure, wouldn't you agree? And now you can always visit my Summer 2015 archives to find wedding photographers who you can recommend to friends and family who are ready to get married! If you're not married yet then when you get engaged, you now have a lovely resource within this "Worth 1,000 Words" blog series!

Today, we're featuring beautiful photography from Caroline Logan, a destination wedding photographer who photographed her first wedding at the young age of 14! She's quite a brilliant, determined and wonderful person to know.

Enjoy getting to know Caroline today! Read on for details.

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What loves means to Caroline Logan as a wedding photographer: 

While I’m not yet married myself, I’m so grateful for the strong examples of God-centered marriages I’ve been able to look to. I’m especially thankful for my parents who have always taught me that marriage is not a point to be reached, but a process to be nourished. I believe marriage is a lifetime commitment and I am just as excited for my couples to celebrate day ten thousand and one of their marriage as I am about day one!

With that in mind, I believe wholeheartedly a photographer’s job spans beyond perfect composition, nailed exposure, or a technically flawless image (although that’s certainly important too). I feel that the foundation of what I do is to capture a joy-filled and genuine connection between a bride and groom that tells an authentic story of who they are together in that moment…so they can look at the images years down the road and feel it too. This is my heart and something I feel so incredibly passionate about.

~*~

Photographer bio (in Caroline Logan's words):

Caroline Logan, photo credit: Anna K. Photography

I’m Caroline Logan, a wedding photographer, adventurer, story-teller, and believer in love. I like to think I’m a Southern girl at heart, although I was born and raised in the land I’ll always love and find most dear: Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. 

I started this journey at the ripe old age of fourteen when I took a crazy leap and photographed my first solo wedding. (Yikes, I was just a baby…I know!) I’ve come a long way since those early days in business, and today, have the joy and privilege of waking up each day to pursue my dream, pouring my heart into work that is truly my passion!

I’ve gotten to travel across the country photographing weddings, attending conferences, and meeting incredible people and it has truly been the greatest of adventures. However, for me, it has been the relationships I’ve built with each one of my sweet and amazing clients that has been the biggest reward that has come from running my own photography business. I truly feel so blessed and grateful to be welcomed into my clients’ lives, to learn their love story, to share in their joy, and to celebrate with them as they make this amazing marriage commitment!

~*~

Connect with Caroline:

Website - http://carolineloganphotography.com
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/carolineloganphotography
Instagram - https://instagram.com/carolineloganphoto/
Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/carolineraush/
Twitter - https://twitter.com/carolineraush

Devotional by Mary Manners: Is Today Really Necessary?

My dear writer friend Mary Manners pays her first visit to my blog today as our official devotional writer! As I mentioned in a previous post, Mary will contribute one devotional to the blog every month starting today! :)

Traditionally, the posts will be published on the last Monday of every month.

I hope you will enjoy visiting with Mary. She has a wealth of wonderful wisdom to share that I believe will encourage you in your journey through life. 

Enjoy! :)

~*~
Is Today Really Necessary?
A devotional written by Mary Manners

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."~James 1:2-4~

My dad has always been my hugest inspiration. Long ago, when I was barely a teenager in the early days of my middle school journey, I came home following a particularly rough day to find him sitting on the front porch waiting for me so he could ask about my day. I joined him on the concrete landing and he spent a good hour listening while I vented about the trials and tribulations of being a thirteen-year-old in a cruel, cruel world. I imagined he had no idea what I was going through, since he couldn't have possibly ever been as young as thirteen. Little did I know!

The next day, Dad came home with a small treasure for me--a poster with the most forlorn-looking bloodhound sitting in a washtub full of soap bubbles that had been dumped over his head. The caption read, "Was today really necessary?" 

Dad helped me mount the poster in a place of honor on my bedroom wall, and then we sat together and talked some more. That's when I began to understand the power of adversity in shaping who I am as well as my life's path.

Today, I use the trials of my life--both the small inconveniences that jab like bony fingers along my rib cage as well as the tsunamis that sweep through to wash away any semblance of sanity--to shape and mold my writing. Characters come alive when their story is infused with nuances of my personal trials. In daily tribulations I find a never-ending fount of inspiration. The passion to write the next story burns continuously inside me, and with every detour that comes my way I know that the round-about will lead to another exciting chapter.

My dad succumbed to Non-Hodgkin lymphoma thirteen years ago, but his memory is alive and well in the poster that has traveled with me through the decades. It now holds a place of honor on the wall across from my office desk. Each time I glance up to read the caption, I smile and think, "Yes, today is really necessary and thank you, God, for allowing me another breath, another test…and another chapter."

REFLECT: God is the master of the universe. He hears our every cry and knows the deepest desires of our hearts. His plan is for good, not to harm. Trust in this and carry on.

PRAY: Dear Lord, please help me to trust in Your will and Your plan for my life. Help me to be fearless in each trial and heartache that comes my way, knowing fully that you hold the paintbrush for the universe, and with each careful stroke You form the path of my existence.

Book spotlight: Island Refuge

Kimberly Rose Johnson, author of the book Island Refuge, is here today to talk about the creative process she experienced in writing her book. 

I hope you will enjoy learning more about what helps an author create a good book! :) This guest post by Kimberly is delightful. I loved it and I hope you will too.

~*~
My Creative Process
By Kimberly Rose Johnson

Have you ever had a song in your head you couldn’t stop from playing over and over in your mind? That’s what Island Refuge was like for me when the story came to me. I had gone on a research trip via Amtrak to Leavenworth, Washington. The route ran along the Puget Sound for part of the trek. It was gorgeous!

I’m a huge fan of the scenery in Washington. I lived there while I went to college and had a million dollar view of Lake Washington and Mt. Rainer from my dorm room window. It was spectacular. While in college I was in my school’s traveling choir, so I had the opportunity to visit one of the islands in the Sound as well as travel all over the state which gave me a good feel for the area where I like to set my stories.

While I was in Leavenworth I visited a B&B (bed and breakfast). The funny thing is, I was there to research for a series I was writing for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Heartsong Presents line and left with another story idea.

My mind meshed the idea of a B&B with the Puget Sound and suddenly Wildflower Island was born. The story percolated in my thoughts for several months before I decided I’d better write it.

My Wildflower B&B Romance series follows the lives of three women whose lives where changed when they came to Wildflower Island, specifically Wildflower B&B.

In book one, Island Refuge we meet Zoe, a five-star-executive chef. She is running from her past, but discovers that in order to face her future she must come to terms with her past.

In book two, Island Dreams, Piper, a land developer, comes to Wildflower Island with the hope of building a resort. She is faced with a lot of opposition and must learn that she can’t do it on her own.

In book three, Island Christmas, Rachel, a strong secondary character from book one returns with dreams of her own.

These woman are all strong women with a dream and it was a blast writing their stories. I truly loved writing this series of sweet romances that are more than just another romance, but stories with easily fit into the women’s Christian fiction genre as well.

If you would like to read more about them here is the link to my Amazon Author page that shows the back cover copy for the books- http://amzn.to/1gd6Ka5

~*~

Author bio:

Kimberly Rose Johnson, soon to be empty-nester, lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and their yellow lab. 

Island Refuge is her sixth published book and the first in a series of three. 

Kimberly enjoys long walks, chocolate, and mochas, not necessarily in that order. 

~*~
Buy Kimberly’s book:
Amazon - http://amzn.to/1IlZqmD
Barnes & Noble - http://bit.ly/1F1RmGC 

~*~

Connect with Kimberly:
Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/krose1990/
Twitter link - https://twitter.com/kimberlyrosejoh
Website - http://kimberlyrjohnson.com/

Love is in the Air: Author interview with Raelee May Carpenter

Welcome my super talented writer friend whose pen name is Raelee May Carpenter to the blog today! She's here to talk about the release of her new novel, Liberation Song and I think her words will inspire you. 

Enjoy the interview! :)

Questions from Alexis in bold, answers from Raelee not in bold...

~*~

Alexis: Congrats on the soon to be released book Liberation Song! Is it a novel or novella?

Raelee: Liberation Song is a novel but (at about 54,000 words) is shorter than the average nowadays.

Tell us about the heroine in Liberation Song. What is her name? What are her strengths and weaknesses? What are her hopes and dreams? What is her biggest fear? What was your favorite part of writing her character?

Alexandra Adelaide is a highly intelligent, motivated, analytical lady with lots of compassion and a strong sense of right and wrong…and she is afraid of basically everything. She wants to atone for a deadly mistake in her past and keep her four-year-old daughter Aggie safe and happy.

Alex has a good sense of humor belied by an inner social awkwardness. She’s hardcore tough, but only because she’s afraid. I enjoy expressing the paradoxes of her character.

Who is your hero in Liberation Song? What is his name? What are his strengths and weaknesses? Who does he love? What does he not like? What was your favorite part about writing his character?

Matthew Gold’s tender-heart is contradicted somewhat by his dark, tattoo-covered appearance. He’s extremely attractive but wears thick glasses that obscure his face. He has a habit of asking extremely personal questions of near strangers and butts heads with Alex over this early on in their relationship. He loves Alex, her daughter Aggie, his family, and Jesus. He also still has an affection for his late wife whom he lost to an ectopic pregnancy several years ago.

Matt is so committed to Alex and so patient with her insecurities. I enjoyed writing about the tender and tireless way he chips at the walls she builds around her heart.

Describe the plot of Liberation Song without giving the story away.

Here’s my mini-blurb: Three years after anti-human trafficking Operation: Free Bird goes south, Alexandra Adelaide is beginning to put the pieces of her heart back together. Then a new kind of tragedy strikes: she falls in love.

Did you create the plot as you write or do you take time to go into great detail before you start writing the story?

I always have a general idea of the plot before I start writing, but most of the story comes alive, instinctually, along the way...though I don’t always write everything in order.

What is your favorite feature of the creative writing process? Explain.

I love the way stories can inspire people. I write about grace, and my hope is my stories teach people how to let more of it into their lives. When a reader tells me one of my stories affected them or helped them understand God’s love a little better—Wow! Those moments are worth every hour I put into the writing, editing, and marketing of my books.

Describe your writing space. What makes it special to you?

I will write anywhere. My most common space is on my couch, but I’ve been known to pull out my laptop or a pad of paper in bed, at the store, at someone else’s house. I’ve become more disciplined at writing in recent years. I will make time for it even if I don’t feel super-inspired, but I also will catch the spark of an idea wherever it happens to occur to me.

What is your go-to food or drink when you are on deadline?

Leftovers, cold cereal, or frozen meals from Trader Joe’s—anything that’s easy and quick to prepare. Sometimes I’ll splurge on a sandwich from the gourmet deli near my apartment.

How did you learn of your traditional publisher eLectio? Share your story. 

Liberation Song is being released by eLectio Publishing, a mid-sized faith-based traditional press based in Texas.

I found out about eLectio when they followed me on Twitter! I’d gotten several rejection slips before, like all authors do, but when I visited their website, I realized Liberation Song might be a good fit for them. I prepared the submission packet and sent it along, prepared to wait the requisite three to six months to hear.

Well, two weeks later, I had an e-mail from eLectio’s COO Chris Dixon. We scheduled a phone call, and I had no idea what to expect, but I did further research on the company and prepared a few questions to ask.

When the time came, he greeted me, introduced himself, and said, “We want to publish your book.”

It was a relief to have questions and info prepared, because I was absolutely reeling after that! Three weeks after I sent my submission, my contract arrived in my email box. The day after returning the contract, I had a release date.

After that came what Chris called the “hurry up and wait” stage. Waiting for the edits. Waiting for the cover. Waiting for the galley. eLectio is a great company to work with, though. They produce incredible books, and the artists and editors know how to capture the spirit of the work. Chris and Jesse Greever (the CEO) have been so supportive along the way, as have the other eLectio authors. I’m so glad to be part of the eLectio family.

When did you know you wanted to be a writer? Share the story.

I honestly don’t remember a time when I didn’t want to be a writer. I wrote a novel when I was seven-years-old. Not that it was worth publishing, but I did write it, and writing books that people would read has always been my dream.

What advice do you have for aspiring authors?

Write. You need to edit and market, and writers’ groups and conferences and classes can be great, but in the end none of it matters if you don’t make time to put your words on the page.

Who is your favorite Christian author? Why?

Oh, my, there are so many. Francine Rivers is awesome, and her book Redeeming Love is a title I will go back to again and again. Susie Finkbeiner, a Michigander like me, writes these intense books that will make you laugh and cry, sometimes both at once.

Recently I’ve gotten in to Lisa Samson, and I adore her contemporary literary stuff. She finds the extraordinary in ordinary life and inspires you to reach out and make the world a better place. Francis Chan and Philip Yancey write great nonfiction. Honestly, I could go on forever.

How does your belief in God affect your storytelling?

Without Him, without His love and all He’s done for me, I wouldn’t have a story to tell.

What is the one thing you want your readers to remember about Liberation Song?

I hope readers come away thinking about God’s grace and how it can give them greater freedom and hope in their everyday lives. I hope they’ll be asking Him to knock down the walls they’ve built to keep Him out.

Complete this sentence: When I wrote “the end” to Liberation Song, I ______________because _________________.

When I wrote “the end” to Liberation Song, I cried because saw myself in it so much, and I was so grateful for God’s grace.

Thanks for the interview, Rae!

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Author bio: 

Raelee May Carpenter is a Christian and an author of contemporary fiction, inspirational essays, and modern mythology. 

Her work is passionate, descriptive and just a little edgy. Raelee's three lifelong passions are faith, people, and words. 

She's a tone-deaf music fan and "Mumma" to a young-at-heart, rescued Beagle mix. 

Raelee's favorite thing to write about is the force that saved her life: Grace.

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Blurb for Raelee's book, Liberation Song:

When we first meet Aili MacIntyre, she’s doing what she’s been doing all her life: running in fear. She flees through a foreign jungle with two young girls and tries to save them from the forced prostitution ring that has held them in a virtual hell-on-earth. But tragedy meets them under the trees, and only one child escapes.

Three years later, Alexandra Adelaide has acquired a new identity and a radically different scene: the metropolitan jungle of Greater Los Angeles. She, though saved by Grace, has invented what she believes is the appropriate way to suffer for her own sins. Alex is raising the child who was orphaned by her insecurities. And she never, for a second, lets herself forget the pain caused by her mistakes.

Then the real tragedy strikes: she falls in love.

Matthew Gold is everything she needs and a lot more than she could’ve imagined. Bright, attractive, generous, and with his own vested interest in Grace, Matt works hard to earn Alex’s trust and a place in her life. He even loves and seeks to protect her daughter, who is the key to breaking open the biggest human trafficking case in recent history.

But Alex has lived in fear since she took her first breath. So how does she let Love start a new day? How does she choose courage even as very real dangers draw closer to her barred doors?

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Buy Raelee’s book:
Direct from eLectio Publishing: Paperback (with free e-book) or e-book (multiple formats)
Also available from Amazon: Kindle or paperback

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Connect with Raelee:
Website - raeleemaycarpenter.com
Twitter - @RaeleeCarpenter
Facebook -  facebook.com/raeleemaycarpenter
Amazon Author Central - http://amzn.to/1FVNirW

Goodreads - http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3510962.Raelee_May_Carpenter

Love is in the Air: Blind Devotion

Love is in the Air: Author interview with Johnnie Alexander

Today's featured author, Johnnie Alexander, will give away one copy of her e-book Where Treasure Hides to the person who wins the book giveaway contest! See the Rafflecopter widget at the end of this blog post to enter the contest.

Join me as I talk with Ms. Alexander about her real-life story and her passion for writing historical and contemporary romance!

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Alexis: How did you get your start as a writer? Take us from the time you “knew” this is what you were called to do and end at how you got your first book deal.

Johnnie: I think I always knew, but fear and ignorance plus family, work, and grad school kept me from following my dream. Then in 2003, I participated in NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) and learned how much I really loved writing a story. It didn’t matter that it was a mess and didn’t resolve itself in a probable way. I had developed characters, a setting, and written a few scenes with impressive dialogue. Still the days flew by until I attended my first major writing conference in 2007 with a proposal that went nowhere.

Time ticked by. I joined two critique groups and studied craft. I learned about show, don’t tell and other important elements. Though I had (and still have) stumbles, editors began showing interest in my work, I signed with my agent, and I won a few conference awards. In 2011, Where Treasure Hides won the American Christian Fiction Writers Genesis Contest for historical fiction. A little over a year later, Tyndale published it as an e-book for their Digital First program. It releases as a print edition in August.

Why do you write historical and contemporary romance? 

New writers are usually advised to establish themselves in one genre, but God has other plans for my writing journey. After Where Treasure Hides was released, Tyndale asked if I had a contemporary. I pulled up a file I’d played with off-and-on over the years, wrote a proposal, and polished the manuscript.

Tyndale passed on it, but Revell said yes! I signed a three-book contract with them for a series called Misty Willow. The first book, Where She Belongs, releases in January 2016.

Tell us about your book Where Treasure Hides. What is it about? Who are your main characters and what are their struggles?

Dutch-American artist Alison Schuyler lives in Rotterdam, Holland with her grandfather who owns the family’s art gallery. While in London, she meets British Army officer Ian Devlin after he protects a Kindertransport boy at Waterloo Station and she draws a sketch of the two of them. 

Though the attraction between them is instant, Europe is on the edge of war. August 1939 is not a good time for romance. Circumstances bring them back together but Ian is recalled to duty when England declares war on Germany.

Alison assists her father in protecting Dutch art from the Nazi looters while Ian is wounded and captured at Dunkirk. She’s almost glad he’s a POW—at least he’s out of the war. But Ian chafes under the confinement and eventually escapes.

As the story unfolds, Alison and Ian are reunited then torn apart again. Will they ever find the happiness that eludes them? You’ll have to read the story to find out!

On your website next to the book cover for Where Treasure Hides is a photo of another book in another language. Tell us about it.

Waar Liefde Woont, translated Where Love Lives, is the Dutch edition of Where Treasure Hides. Marian Baay, a freelance editor for Dutch publisher Uitgeverij Kok, read the novel, loved it, and recommended it for translation.

Though the book opens at Waterloo Station in London, England, the setting then moves to Alison’s home and family art gallery in Rotterdam, Holland for a time. Later, we’re with Ian in France and Germany, then again in England, then back in Germany. (The characters travel around in this story.)

If you could spend a day with your favorite character from Where Treasure Hides, who would you spend the time with and what would you two do?

I would love for Ian to give me a tour of his family estate. Though not as grand as Downton Abbey, Ian’s home has been in the family for centuries. I’d love to see the hidden corners, the art, and any secrets it held. After that, we could take a boat ride to the giant boulder known as the Giant’s Hand where he likes to sit and think.

Describe your writing space. What makes it special to you?

I usually write at the kitchen table. It’s set in a nook with tall windows in two walls which gives me great views of trees. Sometimes a cat meanders past, and lately our two guineas and a few chickens have made their way down here from the pasture. Last summer, I could write and watch our alpacas “mow” the yard.

How does your faith in God play into your storytelling?

I think there are two answers to this question. Alison and Ian are both Christians, but Alison particularly struggles with placing her trust fully into God’s hands. Her favorite verse, and one she holds on to, is also one of mine: “Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she smiles at the future” (Proverbs 31:25 NASB).

The second aspect is the faith it takes to spend years writing a book that may only be read by family and friends. I had to be fine with that, with finding joy in the creative process and in indulging my imagination no matter the outcome.

There’s actually a third answer—the faith that God will give me what I need to do it again. As thrilling as it is to have a contract for two more contemporaries, it’s also scary. There are deadlines to meet. Expectations to fulfill. But God is faithful. I’m writing the series second novel now, and day-by-day it’s taking shape.

Who is your favorite Christian author and which of their books do you love the most? Explain why.

It’s so hard to choose a favorite though I like Ann Tatlock, Jane Kirkpatrick, and Davis Bunn for the depth of their stories. I recently read Snow on the Tulips by Liz Tolsma which is a powerful and beautifully written novel. Her parallelism with the Biblical book of Esther added an inspiring layer to an already engaging story.

What words of wisdom would you like to share with aspiring writers?

Begin now for the journey may be long. Attend conferences, find encouraging and competent critique partners, and enter contests for the feedback you’ll receive.

What is your greatest dream for your writing career?

I’d love to see one of my novels made into a movie. Wouldn’t we all?

Truly, though, I’m not seeking fame nor fortune. My dream is to write stories that linger in the reader’s heart long after she closes the last page.

Share insight into your personal life. Are you married? Do you have children? What is your favorite vacation spot? What is your favorite way to bond with your loved ones? What is your favorite season?

Since moving to Tennessee a little over a year ago, my favorite vacation spot is where the kids are—one in Ohio and two in Florida. However, I’m also very fond of the Blue Ridge. And I dream of traveling to Europe.

My two daughters and my son are all grown up. The girls are married with little ones of their own. One has three boys; the other has two girls. We love movie marathons, playing games, and going to Pizza Hut buffet after a morning’s work is done. One of our favorite things is to make memories together.

We also have a group text thread. I just love it when my phone repeatedly dings because I know the kids are having a conversation. So fun.

I love “Florida season.” I lived in the Orlando area for over twenty years. I rarely knew for sure what month it was. And what fun to be surprised by the snowy photos friends posted on Facebook because I’d forgotten it was winter up north.

Here in Tennessee, I love coming in to a cozy house after doing morning chores and relishing the heat from the fireplace. Now that the weather is getting warmer, I delight in the daffodils popping up in the yard. And one tree outside the kitchen window displays pink tulip-shaped blooms on its branches. Just lovely.

As a writer and woman of faith, what do you want your legacy to be?

Being remembered as a Christian who endeavored to glorify God in all she did is a given. Beyond that, I want to be remembered by my family and friends as someone who created memories with those she loved.

Thanks for the interview, Johnnie! If you’d like to do a book giveaway, please leave a question for my readers to answer. 

Book Giveaway Question: My dream of a European trip is coming true. Even better, you’re coming with me! What’s your one “must-see”?

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Author bio: 

Johnnie Alexander writes inspiring stories that linger in the heart. Where Treasure Hides, her debut novel, won the ACFW Genesis Contest (2011) and Golden Leaf Award (2014). The first of her three contemporary romances, Where She Belongs (Misty Willow Series), releases from Revell in January 2016.

She also has won Best Novel and Best Writer awards (Florida Christian Writers Conferences), and Bronze Medalist (My Book Therapy Frasier Contest).

A graduate of Rollins College (Orlando) with a Master of Liberal Studies degree, Johnnie treasures family memories, classic movies, road trips, and stacks of books. She lives in the Memphis area where her morning chores include feeding dogs, cats, chickens, and a small herd of alpacas.

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About Johnnie's book:

Artist Alison Schuyler spends her time working in her family’s renowned art gallery, determined to avoid the curse that has followed the Schuyler clan from the Netherlands to America and back again. She’s certain that true love will only lead to tragedy—that is, until a chance meeting at Waterloo station brings Ian Devlin into her life.

Drawn to the bold and compassionate British Army captain, Alison begins to question her fear of love as World War II breaks out, separating the two and drawing each into their own battles. While Ian fights for freedom on the battlefield, Alison works with the Dutch Underground to find a safe haven for Jewish children and priceless pieces of art alike. But safety is a luxury war does not allow.

As time, war, and human will struggle to keep them apart, will Alison and Ian have the faith to fight for their love, or is it their fate to be separated forever?

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Buy Johnnie's book Where Treasure Hides, currently available as an e-book. The print edition releases August 2015. Purchase links: Amazon, Barnes&Noble, Christian Book Distributors

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Connect with Johnnie:

Blog, http://www.johnnie-alexander.com

Facebook Profile (Friend or follow Johnnie) https://www.facebook.com/johnnie.alexander.author

Facebook Author Page- https://www.facebook.com/JohnnieAlexanderDonley

Twitter- https://twitter.com/johnnie_alexndr

GoodReads 
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6802954.Johnnie_Alexander

LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnniealexander 

Pinterest- http://www.pinterest.com/johnnie­_alex/

Instagram- http://instagram.com/jazzlin7/ 

Amazon Author Page- http://www.amazon.com/author/johnniealexander

RSS Feed- http://johnnie-alexander.com/feed/