FEATURED BOOK: THE CALL OF ZULINA (by Kay Marshall Strom)

ISBN: 1426700695
ISBN-13: 9781426700699
Format: Paperback
Abingdon Press
Pub. Date: August 2009
Retail: $13.99
Happy Monday, everyone!

I'm so excited to share the following information with you. I've known Kay Marshall Strom for years. In fact, she taught the very first fiction track that I ever attended at Mt. Hermon, back in the 90's. She's written several non-fiction books and now she's crossed over to the other side and is writing fiction, as well. I'm so excited about her novel (The Call of Zulina) and happy to share the information with you. After you've read this info, please feel free to leave a comment. ONE commenter will be entered in the giveaway.

About the Book:

(Eugene, Oregon) – An arranged marriage, a runaway bride, and an ugly family heritage of brutal and inhumane slavery operations leave no room for a fairytale story. Grace Winslow, daughter of an English sea captain and African princess, finds herself in a horrific position of betrothal. Doomed to marry an obnoxious white man, whom she does not love, Grace runs away to escape the slavery she’s been surrounded by all her life. Instead, her journey from home brings her face-to-face with issues of extreme slavery, abuse and human trafficking. In the end she discovers slavery is more than just chains and finds grace that exceeds a name given to her by her parents.

Written by Kay Marshall Strom, The Call of Zulina links historical slavery issues with the modern-day crisis tainting many countries. On the heels of important legislature regarding human trafficking, Strom tackles the subject boldly as she sheds light on the practices and techniques used by angry slave traders. Seen as an advocate for those who have no voice, Strom finds words to communicate the message of history to today’s readers. While this book shines the light on an uncomfortable subject, the message of hope, freedom, and justice prevail and eternal truths discovered.

About the Author:

Author Kay Marshall Strom has two great loves: writing and helping others achieve their own writing potential. Kay has written thirty-six published books, numerous magazine articles, and two screenplays. While mostly a nonfiction writer, the first book of her historical novel trilogy Grace in Africa has met with acclaim. Kay speaks at seminars, retreats, writers’ conferences, and special events throughout the country and around the world. She is in wide demand as an instructor and keynote speaker at major writing conferences. She also enjoys speaking aboard cruise ships in exchange for exotic cruise destinations.


Blog Tour Interview:

1. How did you come up with the storyline of The Call of Zulina?

While in West Africa working on another project, I toured an old slave fortress and was struck dumb by a set of baby manacles bolted to the wall. The characters of Lingongo and Joseph Winslow, Grace's parents, are modeled after real people who ran a slave business in Africa in the 1700s. I "met" them when I was researching Once Blind: The Life of John Newton, a biography of the slaver turned preacher and abolitionists, author of Amazing Grace. The more I thought about them, the more I wondered, "If they'd had a daughter, who would she be? Where would her loyalties lie?"

2. What inspired you to write a book so entrenched with uncomfortable issues?

I used to think that non-fiction was the meat and potatoes of writing and fiction was the chocolate mousse dessert... fun, but not of much value. But I've come to understand that truths can be revealed through fiction just as powerfully as through non-fiction. Sometimes, more so! The fact is, for so long we have tried to look away and pretend that this horrible chapter in history never happened. But it did, and we still feel the effects today. Moreover, the roots of slavery--hunger for power and money, fear and diminishment of people unlike ourselves, and humanity's endless ability to rationalize evil actions--abound today. The time seemed right.

3. How haveyour travels around the world equipped you for writing such a historical novel?

People ask me where my passion for issues such as modern day slavery come from. To a large degree it is from the things I have seen and heard on my numerous trips to India, African countries, Cambodia, Nepal, Indonesia, and other places around the world.

4. Tell us a personal story regarding modern day slavery.

A most pervasive type of slavery is what is known as bonded servitude, where entire poor families are bound into virtual slavery--sometimes for generations--because of a small debt. This is especially common in India. I visited a village in central India where the women had been freed from bondage and set up with a micro loan that allowed them to raise a small herd of dairy cows. They worked so hard and saved every rupee. When they had enough saved, they persuaded a young teacher to come and start a school for their children. Then they used further profits to make low interest loans to others in the area so they could start their own businesses, too--a little bank. I sat in a circle with the five women who made up the "board of directors." Only one could read and write. I asked, "How will the next generation be different because of what you have done?" They said, "No more will be like us. When people look us, they see nothing. But when they look at our children, they see real human beings with value."

From invisible slaves to human beings... all in one generation!

5. Grace, the lead character in The Call of Zulina, forsakes all to escape the slavery of her parents and an arranged marriage.How common is this scenerio today in other countries?

Horrifyingly common. Slavery today takes many forms. According to UNICEF's more conservative count, there are about 12 million people living as slaves today--three times as many as in the days of the African slave trade. As for child arranged marriages, I have talked to girls "enslaved" to husbands in many countries. Examples include a girl in Nepal married at 9 to a middle-aged man, one in India married at 11, a 13-year-old in Egypt married to a man older than her father. I've seen it in Africa, Eastern Europe... so many places!

6. What about in America, are there slavery and trafficking issues here?

Unfortunately, there are. The U.S. State Department estimates between 14,500 and 17,500 people are trafficked into the Untied States each year, although it concedes that the real number is actually far higher. And it's not just states like New York and California that are affected, either. According to the U.S. Justice Department's head of the new human trafficking unit, there is now at least one case of trafficking in every state.

7. You've had 36 books published, and more written and contracted for future release. How has this one impacted your own life?

Some books report, some tell stories. This book has torn my heart.

8. Briefly tell us about the next two books in this Grace in Africa trilogy.

In Book 2, Grace watches her reconstructed life smashed by slavers and revenge, and she is forcibly taken to London. There she faces a new kind of tyranny and another fight for freedom... and for her husband, who is enslaved in America.

Book 3 is set in the new United States of America, in the heart of the slavery. It is a story of slavery at it's worst and redemption at its best.




What Can Concerned Citizens Do to Raise Awareness?

Find out all you can about Modern Day Slavery: then watch for chances to pass on what you have learned.
Write to your elected officials: Petition them to place a high priority on enforcing anti-slavery laws and to put pressure on countries that tolerate forced labor or human trafficking.
Buy Fair Trade products: Fair trade provides a sustainable model of international trade based on economic justice. To find out more, see http://www.fairtrade.net/ .
Support organizations that are in a position to make a difference. When you find an one that is doing a good job on the front lines, contribute to their cause so they can continue on.
Be willing to step into the gap. If you suspect someone is being held against his or her will, call the Department of Justice hotline: 1-888-428-7581. Or you can call 911.

Grand Prize Giveaway!!!
Kay Marshall Strom is giving the following books to one fortunate commenter from The Call of Zulina blog tour. The prize package includes several of Kay's books:

Seeking Christ: A Christian Woman's Guide to Personal Wholeness & Spiritual Maturity
John Newton:The Angry Sailor
Making Friends with Your Mother
Making Friends with Your Father

*****BOOK REVIEW: DO SOMETHING-MAKE YOUR LIFE COUNT

I'm thrilled to be able to review this book, even more thrilled that I was actually the first on Amazon to do so! Recently the awesome folks at Baker Publishing sent me a catalogue of new/upcoming books and said, "Pick ten. . .any ten!" One of the books I picked was Miles McPherson's new book (not yet released) titled DO SOMETHING. It arrived by UPS today. I devoured this book. Devoured it. Now, mind you, I'm on deadline right now, myself. Should be writing my own book. But once I started reading these life-changing stories, I couldn't stop. One after the other after the other. . .each one impacted me in a unique and compelling way. I found myself wanting to cry, to shout, to get up from my seat and march around the living room. In short, I had to DO something.

I've always felt very strongly about servant evangelism. The church is called to have a hands-on approach, to minister to hurting people. And I love the fact that this book not only addresses needs individually (with amazing/powerful stories, no less), but also gives practical ways to do something about them. I sent an email to my pastor right away, letting him know that he will be getting a copy of the book from me. I urge everyone to do the same. Get this book into the hands of your pastors, your small group leaders, your outreach teams, etc. Go ahead and pre-order it from Amazon. It releases in another week or so, anyway. Don't wait, because I feel sure amazon will be scrambling to keep it in stock! Most of all, though, read it yourself. Pay particular attention to the wrap-up sections at the end of each teaching. They're loaded with helpful ideas/information.

One more thing. . .the layout of this book is brilliant. Modern, relevant stories interrupted by stories from the life of Jesus (told in an updated, easy-to-read way), then right back to the modern story. Literally, Miles interrupts our story with God's story to drive home the point that we serve a God who can relate to our needs on every conceivable level. There is nothing we could go through - tragedy or joy - that He has not experienced.

I will leave you with the sub-title of the book: Make Your Life Count. I wanted to do it before reading this book, of course. But now? Well, now I feel like I can't breathe until I've actually taken a step in faith to DO something (bigger, stronger, faster, braver) with my life than I ever dreamed possible. Thank you, Miles, for the Ephesians 3:20-21 reminder that God's dreams/plans far exceed my own!

*****BOOK REVIEW: WELCOME HOME! OUR FAMILY'S JOURNEY TO EXTREME JOY

I have the distinct honor of reviewing Kimberly Woodhouse's non-fiction book, "Woodhouse Family, Welcome Home: Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy" which chronicles the family's personal journey to the "Extreme Home Makeover" television show. If I could figure out a way to give this book TEN stars, I would do so. I guess five will have to do.

Let me start by saying I thought I knew Kim. I've "known" her through American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) for years. I've "known" her as the recipient of my thoughts, love and prayers. I've "known" her from watching her story unfold on Extreme Home Makeover (and on Mystery Diagnosis on the Health Channel). I've "known" her as a mom who came to my local writing group to share the story of her daughter's rare health disorder and their struggles and victories. But I have to be honest. Until reading this book, I did not know Kim Woodhouse at all.

To know someone, you have to walk with him/her, hand-in-hand, through life's ups and downs. Now that I've read this book, I feel that I have. I've cried with Kim as she received the difficult diagnoses for her children. I've traveled with her from state to state, house to house, looking for a "cool" place to stay. I've hoped, dreamed, wished and cared. . .about all of the things she hoped, dreamed, wished and cared about. Most of all, I've been given a rare glimpse into her spirit, where the real story lies. My faith has been increased as a result of reading this book. In fact, I can't wait to buy another copy to give to a loved one who's going through a trial so that her faith can be increased, too.

Instead of going on and on and on about this book (which I could do), I will simply say, "If you're going through a difficult time and need a resurgence of hope. . .read this book." It will be the shot in the arm you've been needing. For in this book you will find the one true answer, the source of hope.

Oh, and one more thing. I've come away from the book with a new appreciation for James 1:2: "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds." I've been marching around my house with those words on my lips. May they forever remain!

BOOK REVIEW: Protector's Honor

Hi everyone!

I've been stepping out of my comfort zone, reading books I usually don't read (i.e. suspense thrillers). I started with a great Love Inspired suspense titled Protector's Honor by author Kit Wilkinson. Ironically, I'd never met Kit until this past Sunday, when I ran into her at the ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) conference in Denver. I told her at that time that I'd be giving the book a great review.

Let me start with a synopsis of the story:
It's instinct. When NCIS agent Rory Farrell hears a woman scream, he reacts. But even after he saves her from abduction, Rory can't get the beautiful and fragile Tabitha Beaumont out of his mind. Especially when he finds a connection between Tabitha and his latest murder investigation. She needs protection—Rory's protection—while Rory needs answers Tabitha doesn't even realize she holds. Yet how can he find the truth without betraying Tabitha's trust? Soon, Rory must decide what matters most—keeping his objective distance, or keeping Tabitha, in his arms and under his protection, forever.

My thoughts:
Wow. I've been holding off on reading suspense because I didn't think I could handle the fear factor. What I loved about this story was the fact that it was a sweet romance tied in with a heart-skipping story. Kit didn't go heavy-handed on the suspense. She offered moments of sweet relief through the ever-building romance between the hero and heroine. She did a great job plotting out the story and left me guessing till the very end. Ironically, my very favorite line in the book was the very last one. I won't give it away. But I don't think I've seen a more fitting "wrap-up" line in a book in years. Kudos, Kit! Nicely done.

If you like fast-paced suspense thrillers with a strong romantic thread, Protector's Honor is the book for you.

****BOOK REVIEW: THE CONFIDENTIAL LIFE OF EUGENIA COOPER

What do you get when you merge an east coast socialite, a wild west dime novel and a spunky little girl from Colorado in need of a woman's touch? The Confidential Life of Eugenia Cooper! This delightful read by Texas author Kathleen Y'Barbo will have you laughing, sighing and looking for a real-life hero like Daniel Beck, Gennie's sometimes-hated-sometimes-loved adversary (er, love interest). Spicy, adventurous and filled with twists and turns, this amazing book is sure to win over readers of both sexes! The Confidential Life of Eugenia Cooper is by far my favorite Kathleen Y'Barbo book thus-far.

Here's the synopsis:
This Wild West adventure just might be the life she was meant to live.

The future is clearly mapped out for New York socialite Eugenia “Gennie” Cooper, but she secretly longs to slip into the boots of her favorite dime-novel heroine and experience just one adventure before settling down. When the opportunity arises, Gennie jumps at the chance to experience the Wild West, but her plans go awry when she is drawn into the lives of silver baron Daniel Beck and his daughter and finds herself caring for them more than is prudent–especially as she’s supposed to go back to New York and marry another man.

As Gennie adapts to the rough-and-tumble world of 1880s Colorado, she must decide whether her future lies with the enigmatic Daniel Beck or back home with the life planned for her since birth. The question is whether Daniel’s past–and disgruntled miners bent on revenge–will take that choice away from her.

Here's what other readers have to say:
“The Confidential Life of Eugenia Cooper is a fast-paced story full of fun, action, drama, and love.”
–Mary Connealy, author of Calico Canyon, Petticoat Ranch, and Gingham Mountain

“If you loved Cathy Marie Hake, give yourself a treat with The Confidential Life of Eugenia Cooper.”
–Lauraine Snelling, author of the Red River Series and One Perfect Day

If you're ready for a rollicking good time, pick up a copy of The Confidential Life of Eugenia Cooper soon! Highly recommended.

JUST RELEASED: FOOLS RUSH IN

Happy September, everyone! I'm so excited about the release of my first Revell comedy, FOOLS RUSH IN. Here's a synopsis:

Bella Rossi may be nearing thirty, but her life is just starting to get interesting. When her Italian-turned-Texan parents hand over the family wedding planning business, Bella is determined not to let them down. She quickly books a "Boot Scoot'n" wedding that would make any Texan proud. There's only one catch—she knows nothing about country music because her family only listens to Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. Where will she find a DJ on such short notice who knows his Alan Jackson from his Keith Urban?

When a misunderstanding leads her to the DJ (and man) of her dreams, things start falling into place. But with a family like hers, nothing is guaranteed.

Can the perfect Texan wedding survive a pizza-making uncle with mob ties, an aunt who is a lawsuit waiting to happen, and a massive delivery of 80 cowboy boots? And will Bella ever get to plan her own wedding? Book one in the Weddings by Bella series, Fools Rush In is fun, fresh, and full of surprises. Readers will love the flavorful combination of Italian and Tex-Mex, and the hilarity that ensues when cultures clash.

Here's what several readers had to say about the book:

REVIEWER: Carly
Carlybird’s Home
http://carlybirdshome.blogspot.com/

Do you need a laugh? I mean a really good laugh? Then you need to read Fools Rush In. This has got to be one of the funniest books I have ever read, perhaps even the funniest. The concept of these two very different cultures coming together is priceless. The author has obviously spent a lot of time with very large Italian families because she knows all of their funny little nuances, and I love that.

The characters in this story are so delightful and I loved all the different personalities that just seemed to blend well together without feeling contrived. I especially liked Guido; he was a great source of humor and hope. The story was fun and fast paced, but still had a good flow to it. It never felt rushed nor did it drag at any point.
At the heart of this very funny book is Bella, a young woman who has a lot of fears and insecurities. As she embarks on the challenge of running her family’s wedding planning business, she must learn to trust God for everything. That is a simple truth that we all need to hear as much as possible.

I am so glad that Fools Rush In is the first in the Weddings by Bella series. I hope the author is hard at work on the next book because I am so excited to read it. Fools Rush In was such a pleasant surprise. I didn’t know what to expect, but I have to say, this book is a delight. I can’t recommend this book strongly enough. It will make you laugh and make you think. You will be glad you read it. I know I am.


From Author Trish Perry:

Mamma mia, let's escape! Let's fall in love! Let's eat chicken parmesan, fettuccini alfredo, and Bubba's down-home barbeque without gaining a pound. It's all possible when we hang out with Bella Rossi in Fools Rush In. Janice Thompson's first installment in the Weddings by Bella series is a fun, welcome distraction from life's boredom and stress. You'll fall for Bella's DJ even faster than she does. And you'll root for the Rossi and Neeley families as they break down cultural barriers and rush toward each other, arms wide open. No fools, they! - Trish Perry (www.trishperry.com)

“Janice Thompson is a master storyteller who draws her readers into the tale along with the characters. From page one of Fools Rush In, I felt as if I were Bella’s best friend, sitting down with her over cups of Italian cappuccino while she told me the latest happenings in her zany family. One of my top picks for 2009, Fools Rush In earns a permanent place in my library.”
—Ane Mulligan, editor, Novel Journey

MORE INFO ABOUT THE BOOK:

E-Blast: http://www.bakerpublishinggroup.com/thompson%5Feblast/

Book Trailer (YouTube): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TufSwOeXuoU

To read the first two chapters of the book online: http://www.revellbooks.com/Media/MediaManager/Excerpt_9780800733421.pdf

Romantic Times Spotlight: http://www.rtbookreviews.com/stage/authors_spotprev.php?id=605

Janice's Website: www.janiceathompson (to purchase an autographed copy of the book)

Buy Fools Rush in at amazon.com here: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0800733428/ref=s9_simz_gw_s0_p14_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=08AVC0VFEXKRNQTXT7DR&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=470938631&pf_rd_i=507846

****BOOK REVIEW: SUNSET BEACH

Happy Tuesday, everyone! I've been reading several books for review and/or endorsement lately and I'm getting back on-track with my blog, as well. This past week I read Trish Perry's new book, SUNSET BEACH. Here's a synopsis:

Sonny Miller plans to use a week's vacation at a San Diego beach house to find the answers she has wanted all her life. She invites her mother, Teresa, and her mother's estranged sister, Melanie, to the quiet and quirky retreat. They both show up. . .and with surprises of their own. Teresa, a successful classical singer, brings her latest protege, and Melanie brings along secrets about Teresa and the identity of Sonny's father. Strong personalities cause big waves, and Sonny quickly finds herself in over her head. but as the sisters begin to reconcile and reconnect, Sonny makes some surprising connections--romantic and otherwise--of her own.

Wowza! This is a great one. Knowing Trish's former books like I do, I'd expected SUNSET BEACH to be a comedy, but it surprised me with its depth. I don't want to give away too much, but let's just say Trish gives readers an opportunity to get to know themselves better through the lives of the unique characters. Nothing cookie-cutter here. I also enjoyed the mystery elements of the story. The ever-thickening plot kept me guessing, guessing, guessing. . .and that's what a good story is supposed to do.

Kudos to Trish for this thoughtful story. I'm anxious to read more from this author.