Friday 22 February 2013

Soul Friend

Jo-Anne Berthelsen and I met many years ago but it has only been since we have both become published authors we have really started to get to know each other and become friends.

I have enjoyed all Jo-Anne's Christian novels and it is a real privilege to feature her latest book, "Soul Friend." Although these days I personally read more fiction than non-fiction, this book is a compelling read. Jo-Anne shares from her heart with us the journey her mentor and "soul friend" has walked with her. She tells of her early struggles as she first of all prepares for ministry then some of the many challenges and decisions those in Christian ministry may face as well as her career as a published author. 

This is a very challenging book and shows so very clearly how our Lord would love His children to share His love and Word with each other, support each other, not only in prayer, and showing real love toward each other but in many and varied practical ways. The last chapter, "Passing the Baton" reminded me that as we ouselves are blessed by another, we have a responsibility when opportunities come to share with others what God has been teaching us over the years about Himself and the journey HE wants to take us on with others.

This is not a book to be read in one sitting. I found I had to ponder, meditate, pray over various sections and try to apply them to the journey I am on with my Lord. Do read the following information about this book and the author. 


acrba button1

18 - 22 February 2013


Is Introducing

Soul Friend: The Story of a shared Spiritual Journey

(Even Before Publishing October 2012)

By

Jo-Anne Berthelsen

Available at Light the Dark for $16.95

About the Book:

9781922074492

Soul Friend is an honest and intimate portrayal of the author's own journey with her wise, spiritual mentor and the warm, life-giving relationship that developed between them during their fifteen years of meeting together. This story is written in the hope that it will inspire many not only to seek out such a spiritual friendship for themselves but also to provide such a friendship for another.
Beautifully written, this honest and insightful memoir is an inspiring celebration of the ancient art of spiritual companionship. Dr Rick Lewis
Soul friendship is a very under-emphasised resource of Christian discipleship, particularly for Christian leaders. Jo-Anne has written honestly, beautifully, sensitively and powerfully. Dr Keith Farmer
About the Author

3975230Jo-Anne Berthelsen lives in Sydney but grew up in Brisbane. She holds degrees in Arts and Theology and has worked as a high school teacher, editor and secretary, as well as in local church ministry. Jo-Anne loves communicating through both the written and spoken word. She is the author of five published novels – Heléna, All the Days of My Life, Laura, Jenna andHeléna’s Legacy, with a sixth, The Inheritance, due for release in 2013. Her first non-fiction work Soul Friend: The story of a shared spiritual journey was released in October 2012. Jo-Anne loves music, reading, mentoring younger women, and sharing with community groups about writing. She is married to a retired minister and has three grown-up children and three grandchildren.

Saturday 9 February 2013

Four Writers Collaborate and write The Greenfield Legacy

It is a privilege to be a member of the ACRBA. This new novel written by four of my favourite Australian writers is a new concept and yet the story flows so well with each character well defined. Although there are a few slang words that some readers may find a little difficult to cope with, it was a real page turner for me.

I highly recommend this book. IT IS ALSO AVAILABLE AS AN E-BOOK
4 - 8 February, 2013


is introducing
(Even Before Publishing October 2012)
by
Rose Dee, Amanda Deed, Meredith Resce and Paula Vince
Available from Light the Dark With a contest which ends

14 February 2013.
About the Book:
Mattie was in love with Billy, but she was too young to wed. When Billy was conscripted to fight in Vietnam, they made a decision that affected their lives and their future. But so much pain resulted that Mattie never really healed. Every turn Mattie made affected her daughter and her granddaughter in ways she didn't even realise. But forty-six years later, is it time for things to be set right?

Navy is a young woman who has never known her family. But what could be a wonderful opportunity is met with jealousy and apprehension from her cousin Brooke and her aunt Connie, especially with handsome Aidan around. Each must look past their struggles and find forgiveness and trust and perhaps even love.

This absorbing family drama, set in South Australia's beautiful McLaren Vale wine region, is written by four of Australia's outstanding Christian fiction authors who have brought you best-selling and award-winning novels.

About the Authors
Left to Right: Rose, Meredith, Paula, Amanda.

Award winning Australian author, PAULA VINCE, loves to evoke tears and laughter through writing fiction. She has a passion to provide inspiring stories that highlight her own beautiful country.http://www.appleleafbooks.com
ROSE DEE was born in Ingham, North Queensland, Australia. Her childhood experiences growing up in a small beach community would later provide inspiration for her first novel. Rose, who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree, decided to try her hand at writing two years ago. The result of that attempt is her first novel, 'Back to Resolution'. Her novels are inspired by the love of her coastal home and desire to produce exciting and contemporary stories of faith for women. 'Beyond Resolution', and ‘A New Resolution’ are the second and third books in the 'Resolution' series. Rose resides in Mackay, North Queensland with her husband, young son, and mischievous pup, Noodle. http://rosedee.com
AMANDA DEED grew up in the South Eastern suburbs of Melbourne in a Christian home, and found faith at an early age. She has followed her passion to serve the Lord through music and literature since her teen years. Now married, with three children, Amanda enjoys the variety of being a mother, finance administrator, musician and historical romance writer. Her debut novel, The Game, won the 2010 CALEB Prize for fiction, and Ellenvale Gold was a finalist for the same prize in 2012.http://www.amandadeed.com.au
South Australian Author, MEREDITH RESCE, has been writing since 1991, and has had books in the Australian market since 1997. Following the Australian success of her “Heart of Green Valley” series, an English Publisher has taken the first three books in this series, and has released them to the British and American markets. ‘The Greenfield Legacy’ is her 15th novel published. Apart from writing, Meredith also takes the opportunity to speak to groups on issues relevant to relationships and emotional and spiritual growth. Meredith has also been co-writer and co-producer in the 2007 feature film production, “Twin Rivers”. With her husband, Nick, Meredith has worked in the ministry since 1983. Meredith and Nick have one daughter and two sons.