"BEST OF CFRB" Tour; Day One--FLASHPOINT

Flashpoint--Book One of the Underground by Frank Creed was the first book that  I  wrote a review for. When I reread it now, I see lots  of things that I would change. At the time, however, I was woefully unaware  of what was going on in Christian literature and the publishing business. The original CFRB tour was in October, 2007. Here's a reprise of that early review:

Flashpoint by Frank Creed

Imagine a book that combines the super-cool action of The Matrix with a big portion of Left Behind, and then mix in a few tablespoons of Frank Peretti’s This Present Darkness and the powers of all the superheroes you know. This only begins to give you an idea of what to expect in Frank Creed’s futuristic Speculative Fiction book, Flashpoint.

This tale of Good (The Body of Christ and God) versus Evil (the Devil and his crowd) takes place in Chicago in 2036, a time when Fundamentalist Christians are considered dangerous terrorists who need to be taken to insane asylums and reprogrammed in order to serve society. The true believers meet secretly in house churches which are always in danger of being discovered and raided by “Peacekeepers.” The life-or-death action begins as Dave and Jen Williams are traveling home with their dad, only to find Peacekeepers have stormed the neighborhood and arrested the members of their house church, including their mother and older brother. Their father hurriedly takes Dave and Jen to hide where he thinks they’ll be safe until one of the members of the BOC (Body of Christ) can get them underground. Their rescuer, Legacy, makes a last minute appearance as the Peacekeepers are ready to take them. With super strength, super speed and some high-tech toys, Legacy knocks out the Bad Guys. From this point on, the action REALLY gets hot and heavy!

What is most remarkable about this book is how Frank Creed laces the book with scripture, important Christian values, and humor without ever slowing down the pace. The mindware that has been developed works in conjunction with the Holy Spirit, and Dave (who chooses Calamity Kid as his street name) must learn to surrender his own will and let God’s will be done. The humor is everywhere, and sometimes I had to reread portions because I missed it.

The only point that some readers may have a problem with is that this is not written with a rapture taking place, as in Left Behind, before the One World Government starts to take over. However, this book is not taking a stand on one view of the Tribulation or another; it is a speculative look at what the church may face if current trends continue. As such, I think it handles situations and scripture nicely.

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys action-adventure, cyberpunk, science fiction, or end-times speculation. It is particularly geared for young adult guys, but we older folks--even ladies-- will enjoy it as well! There isn’t a dull moment, yet it gives you some truths to chew on at the same time.

Flashpoint: Book One of the UndergroundAuthor: Frank Creed
Publisher: The Writers’ Café Press, Lafayette, IN
Pub. Date: September, 2007
ISBN: 978-1-934284-01-8
Biblical speculative fiction
200 pages
Retail Price: $9.95, softcover
Contact Frank Creed at www.FrankCreed.com

Since I wrote this, I have read quite a bit of sci-fi and fantasy, as well as other speculative fiction. I've learned a lot more about cyberpunk, film noir  dialog and style, and I've come to a better understanding of how futuristic fiction with can be written with Christian values and yet not line up with your--or my--interpretation of Revelation. As a result, my original impression of Flashpoint and Frank Creed stands. Back then I declared Frank as the best living Christian author. Well, kay, I hadn't read much then, so a few others are on the podium with him, but his style is still exemplary. Smart, succinct, unapologetically Christian and yet honest non-Christians enjoy the story. I'm not sure, but I think he's the first in this sub-sub-genre of Christian cyberpunk (one other I saw recently was Eternity Falls by Kirk Outerbridge). In any case, Frank Creed is an important author in the speculative realm. The long-awaited sequel, War of Attrition, should make its appearance very soon. I recommend getting cozy with Flashpoint before diving into book two.

CFRB Book Tour for August: "Best of CFRB"

The Christian Fiction Review Blog (CFRB) has been in operation since January 1, 2007, when the first book toured was Arms of Deliverance by Tricia Goyer. 43 novels have been spotlighted since that time, and there was a feeling that it would be good to recap some of the better titles. Most of the CFRB members weren't there at the beginning; but it's my understanding that quality writing was evident from the outset. This week various members will be reaching into their individual archives to revisit titles that each of them considers top-notch. Since I am not sure just who will be contributing this time, I ask you to look at the scrolling bar--CFRB--on the right side. Current and recent members are listed there, many of whom should be reviewing this week. As for me personally, I have had great difficulty choosing, so I'll be rerunning one review per day. Six still wasn't enough, but choices had to be made.

SPLASHDOWN BOOKS Takes On Growing Speculative Market

A few months back, a new publisher started up rather quietly, filling a need in an area with high interest but limited representation in Christian circles. Splashdown Books landed with The Muse by Fred Warren, a quirky fantasy that is attracting accolades and attention, even award nominations. Since then three more books have been published with more to come within the year. Grace Bridges, the publisher, has produced this nice little video (narrated by author Adam Graham) which introduces the publisher and current books well.

Unexpected Long Dry Spell; Hopefully Ending Very Soon

It's been an incredibly long time since I posted anything on this blog. As they say, "due to circumstances beyond my control." Not to go into the boring details, but increasing health issues mixed with a string of computer problems (I'm beginning to think computers are allergic to me) prevented me from writing for several months. In that time I managed to do only short, unoriginal entries for a couple of books that deserve much more attention, attention I intend to give them soon. From May 12 until July 15 I was totally out of commission, in the hospital and a convalescent center. Home has never looked as good as it does now. I'm still a bit slow about writing, partly because I'm still not running on all four cylinders, but there's a huge backlog of books that I need to review. My apologies to all the authors and publishers who rightfully expected a post on the books sent to me. Now I have to find them all again before I can begin, since some of my incredible friends straightened up my apartment while I was gone.

I also want to take a moment to thank my friends who knew about my problems, who lifted me up in their thoughts and prayers. The prayers kept me going, I know. Your concern and care has overwhelmed me; I feel so very blessed!

So, God willing and a computer is working, I should get started next week. I may not get the reviews out in the proper order, but they will be forthcoming!

CFRB May Blog Tour--RABBIT: Chasing Beth Rider

Rabbit: Chasing Beth Rider
by Ellen C. Maze
 

This month, CFRB 
presents Rabbit: Chasing Beth Rider by Ellen 
C. Maze.

About the Book:
Bestselling author Beth Rider enjoys her fame as the South’s newest literary star.

That is until Jack Dawn, a real-life vampire, vows to kill her because of the vile redemptive message her book is bringing his people. The ancient race of bloodthirsty immortals to which Jack belongs, known as the Rakum, have spread evil among mankind since the Beginning. But Jack alone recognizes the novel’s destructive potential and she must die.

Jack’s proselyte Michael Stone was brought up from his youth to be strong, sensible and brutal. But at one hundred and thirty, Michael is old enough to appreciate his quiet and ordered life. When he stumbles upon the beautiful and apparently innocent Beth Rider, he is puzzled by his Elder’s unreasonable actions against her. Instantly smitten, Michael takes it upon himself to protect her from the limitless lust of his brethren.

Facing the most terrifying trial of her life against creatures known only in fables, one simple woman will threaten the existence of a powerful and accursed people. In the climactic final battle, it is a race to the death, or if Beth has her way, a race to the life—of every Rakum who makes the choice.







About the Author:
A recovering vampire fanatic, Ellen uses her experience in that subculture to bring the Light into this burgeoning genre. Addicting and delicious, Ellen’s brand of story-telling is rife with deep character study and honest emotion. Ellen lives in Historic Montgomery, Alabama with her husband, daughter, four cats and one spoiled dog. This is her first novel and Ellen has no holes in her neck.



Visit the book website.

Preview the first 171 pages (that's almost HALF of the book!)
free at FREADO.com.

Watch the book trailer.

Purchase Rabbit: Chasing Beth Rider from
Amazon, Barnes and Noble,
or the PDF eBook from Outskirts Press.

Check out these other member blogs this week for more info.

THE MUSE--Excerpt, Intro,and Free Book

I'm a bit slow in getting a review out for The Muse by Fred Warren for several reasons beyond my control. Although I plan to put up a whole review tomorrow, today you can read my blurb that's in the front of the book and the first chapter. AND...(drum roll) announcing a GIVEAWAY to one specal reader!

I will have drawing a week from today, on Friday, April 16, for a copy of The Muse. I have such a high opinion of this book that this one is on me, not the author or the publisher. I really believe it should be read be scads of people, and I hope it will. TO ENTER this drawing: simply leave a comment (with your email address included) on one of the CFRB blogs about The Muse. That includes the whole week at CFRB's main site and all three of my posts. I'll also have posts at Shoutlife and Gather to include.




Here's the blurb I wrote (and was honored to find incuded in the front of the book):

This is an engaging, slightly twisted tale of a trio of aspiring speculative fiction authors who do battle with that most dreaded foe--writer's block. Although this may sound like something to appeal only to authors, that is far from the truth. Fred Warren's deftly-designed characters and well-developed scenes will draw in a variety of readers and carry them along for the ride. I laughed and cried out loud and found myself wishing for certain denouements, most of which were different than the actual outcomes. Reality and fantasy blur then clear in this kaleidoscope of action.

This is a portion of Fred Warren's introduction explaining his book:

This story is about inspiration--its meaning, origins, and purpose. It also explores the idea that there's more than one kind of inspiration, and it's important to understand the source, nature, and ultimate effects of the creative energy we're using.

Creation is perhaps the most human activity of all, for in the act of creating, whether it's producing a work of art, telling a story, building a business, or raising a family, we express in microcosm the nature of the Creator, who gave us life and made us in His image with the intent that we, in our small, clumsy way, attempt the sorts of things He does with perfect excellence.

I didn't start out writing The Muse with the intent of producing a "Christian" novel, though my own faith can't help but emerge somehow in anything I write. References to the spiritual world unseen to human eyes are pure speculation. I know the power of love, loyalty, truth, courage, and self-sacrifice beyond any shadow of doubt, and I am likewise certain that God works purposefully in our lives, for our good, though we often don't recognize His hand except in retrospect.

I enjoyed writing The Muse, and I hope you'll find it interesting, entertaining, and maybe even a little inspiring.

AND NOW for the first chapter:


TARON surveyed the enemy lines, row upon row of grotesque, iron-sinewed goblins rhythmically scraping swords on shields, filling the air with the soul-melting screech of metal carving bone. It was hopeless. The Alliance Army was outnumbered twenty to one in an indefensible position, their escape blocked by the sheer precipices of the Glass Mountains. He sighed. This would be the end. So much blood to be spilled today, for so little purpose.


Siri pulled up beside him, struggling to rein in her spirited chestnut mount. The horse, at least, was eager for battle, but Siri’s face was a picture of despair. She knew the odds, what the outcome must be.


“My Lord, the troops await your orders.”


Taron nodded, raising his sword, Illustrion, on high as he wheeled his destrier about to face the haggard ranks of the Alliance. He opened his mouth to shout the order that would send them all to certain death.


Silence.


“My Lord?” Siri whispered, “The order?”


Silence.


Behind them, the goblin army roared and scraped, roared and scraped, roared and scraped.


“My Lord! What is your order?”


The general’s mouth was a gaping cavern from which no sound emerged.

“Aaagh!” Stan shoved himself away from his desk, pounding his head in frustration. It was no use. He’d written himself into a corner... again.

Charity’s voice wafted down the cellar stairs. “Honey, are you okay?”

“Yeah,” he hollered back. “It’s nothing. I’m stuck again. Blasted writer’s block.”

“I thought so. Give it a break. Come upstairs for a while.”

“In a minute.” He rolled his chair back to the desk and tapped the keyboard. The printer whirred and spooled out the current page of Stan’s manuscript. He snatched it up and read the last paragraph, then he read it again. Maybe seeing the words on paper would trigger a new insight that would allow him to move ahead.

No such luck. He wadded the paper into a ball and flung it at the wall, where it bounced off a poster advertising last year’s Renaissance Festival. Across the room, a scruffy little terrier whined softly and leapt from his perch on the futon to retrieve the errant scrap.

“Don’t even think about it, Squick.” The vet bill for the little dumpster-diver’s last digestive misadventure was still a painfully fresh memory. Squick bounced back onto the futon. At least he was obedient, unlike Stan’s imagination. There had to be an original way to get his story past this latest roadblock. He could taste it, smell it, feel it on the edge of his consciousness, mocking him...

“It’s getting cold, Stan!”


“Coming, coming.”




Read more about Fred Warren and his work at his website and Splashdown Books.

Purchase The Muse from
Amazon and Barnes and Noble.
Check out these other member blogs this week for more info.

THE MUSE--CFRB Book for April

         The Muse
by Fred Warren

This month, CFRB presents The Muse by Fred Warren.


About the Book:
Stan Marino needs a muse. He's written himself into a corner...again. A shot of inspiration is all he needs to finish his story ...where is he going to find it? What Stan doesn't know: Inspiration has found him. And it's about to take over his life. Ripped from reality, he must lead a band of lost souls in a life-or-death battle with a merciless enemy. Stan has found his muse, but will he survive it?


About the Author:
Fred Warren hails from the merry old land of Kansas, and his short stories have appeared in a variety of online and print magazines, such as A Fly in Amber, Beyond Centauri, Every Day Fiction, Mindflights, and Residential Aliens. The Muse is his first novel. 

• Paperback: 196 pages
• Publisher: Splashdown Books (November 1, 2009)
• ISBN-10: 0986451711
• ISBN-13: 978-0986451713

Visit the author's website.
Read the FREE first chapter.
Watch the book trailer.
Purchase The Muse from
Amazon and Barnes and Noble.  
Check out these other member blogs this week for more info.

Love Crucified Arose!! Why?

Two more music videos with songs that say so much more than I ever could, lyrics so enthralling that I am certain God gave them to Michael Card. First, the haunting question "Why?" Following it is one of my favorite songs of all time, "Love Crucified Arose." In this concert tour, Michael was joined by Sarah Groves, John Catchings (cello) and Phil Keaggy. May you draw closer to our Lord today as you praise and remember His great gift and sacrifice.



Why did it have to be a friend
Who chose to betray the Lord?
Why did he use a kiss to show them?
That's not what a kiss is for.
Only a friend can betray a friend
A stranger has nothing to gain;
And only a friend comes close enough
To ever cause so much pain.
And why did there have to be thorny
Crown pressed upon His head?
It should have been a royal one
Made of jewels and gold instead.
It had to be a crown of thorns
Because in this life that we live,
For all who seek to love
A thorn is all the world has to give.
And why did it have to be
A heavy cross He was made to bare?
And why did they nail His feet and hands
His love would have held Him there?
It was a cross for on a cross
A thief was supposed to pay,
And Jesus had come into the world
To steal every heart away.
Yes, Jesus had come into the world
To steal every heart away.
(copyright Michael Card, Mole End Music, 1984)




Long ago He blessed the earth
Born older than the years
And in the stall a cross He saw
Through the first of many tears.
A life of homeless wandering
Cast out in sorrow's way
The Shepherd seeking for the lost
His life, the price He paid.

Love crucified, arose
The Risen One in splendor
Jehovah's sole Defender
Has won the victory.
Love crucified, arose
And the grave became a place of hope
For the heart that sin and sorrow broke
Is beating once again.

Throughout Your life You felt the weight
Of what You'd come to give
To drink for us that crimson cup
So we might really live.
At last the time to love and die
The dark appointed day
That one forsaken moment
When Your Father turned His face away.

Love crucified, arose
The One who lived the died for me
Was Satan's nail-pierced casualty
Now He's breathing once again.

Love crucified, arose
And the grave became a place of hope
For the heart that sin and sorrow broke
Is beating once again.
(copyright Michael Card, Mole End Music, 1983)