Blog Archives
Living All In: How to Show Up for the Life You Want
In Living All In, Chris Janssen presents a compelling methodology to foster focus and achieve a fulfilling life. The innovative incorporation of journal prompts offers an immersive and interactive avenue for readers to assimilate and apply the knowledge gleaned. These unique features facilitate a more profound engagement, allowing readers to introspect, reflect on personal experiences, and translate the lessons into actionable steps. The book promises to rejuvenate and inspire its audience to chase their aspirations.
Janssen’s writing shines with authenticity. The book exudes a warmth akin to an intimate coaching session, making the guidance both friendly and impactful. With its lucid prose peppered with moments of humor, Living All In stands out as a passionate endeavor by Janssen. The reader learns and feels the author’s genuine desire to uplift.
The narrative feels exceptionally personal, almost like a tête-à-tête with a mentor. The interactive design, complete with spaces for personal notes and exercise walkthroughs, ensures the reader remains engaged and enriched. Janssen’s compassion resonates throughout, leaving one imbued with optimism.
Living All In serves as a beacon, empowering individuals to confront their anxieties and realign expectations. With a riveting pace punctuated by inspiring quotes and valuable exercises, this book navigates life’s myriad challenges. It addresses countless facets of life, from professional pursuits to personal relationships, and even excels in areas like sports, demonstrating its universality. By cultivating focus and altering cognitive patterns, readers stand to gain immensely.
In an era marred by diminishing self-confidence and looming fears, Living All In emerges as a timely intervention. It’s a clarion call against procrastination and hesitancy, urging one to seize the potential lying just beyond their apprehensions. It’s a testament to Janssen’s prowess that a book has the potential to galvanize even a single individual into living fully. Meriting a resounding five out of five stars, this book addresses a crucial theme and serves as the nudge many of us silently seek.
Pages: 198 | ASIN : B0BHH3Z7MD
Sometimes We Receive, & Sometimes We Give
“IT” follows a young musician who has lost all hope of achieving his dreams till one day, he learns to have self-confidence and faith. What inspired you to write this story?
This story follows the path of dissolving lies that keep us from living our best lives. After going through a mental health crisis, I got better. The path to health was a rediscovery of the “IT” within me. This simple story illustrates the truth of all of us that we have “IT” within us, and we are to support each other in its discovery. The value of each human being is huge if we allow the truth of our light to shine. It is my story. It is the story of all of us.
What were some challenges you felt were important to defining your characters in this story?
I wanted to show the reader the importance of listening to their inner guidance even when it may feel uncomfortable. By witnessing the impact of trusting that guidance on our struggling musician, Joe, my hope is it will inspire people to follow that loving guidance available within them. Another major challenge is our worth. We see Joe struggle with this and how an answer arises in an unexpected and perfect way. Also, when we see someone struggle, we may think we need to fix it. Notice the people who cared about Joe the most had prayed for him. They couldn’t fix it and likely tried. However, there was a solution that arrived just in time. We sometimes lose faith, and I wanted to have the reader see the power of Joe’s loved ones resting in that place of faith without being the ones who had to solve it. Lastly, hope was nearly lost, and I wanted to reveal how quickly hope can be restored. Sometimes it is a simple word from LOVE.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
We have an opportunity. We are all our “brother’s keepers”. Sometimes we are called into action and may not understand why. In the presence of love, we may receive insights and take action in support of someone and never know just how impactful our action was. However, in love, we can always trust. We may lose hope, and it may just be our perception is not aligned in a way to see what is true. Challenge your perceptions and allow them to change. We saw this with Joe shifting from self-judgment to awakening to what is true about the talent he has within him. The path to our optimal life is intertwined with the paths of others. Sometimes we receive, and sometimes we give. Do both. Somehow there is a connection amongst us, invisible threads we are able to tune into, like the dream the reader experiences. The opportunity is here now to receive these insights and expand our senses from the five physical senses to the more subtle spiritual senses. This process of discovery and nurturing of these senses is available to everyone.
What is the next book that you’re working on, and when can your fans expect it out?
I am working on two more books right now and have six out already. The next books include my story of healing from a mental health challenge and a novel about the same subject. My belief is everyone has within them an innate guidance system designed to lead us each to remember the core LOVE we were created in the image of. This process (if followed) will lead to a dissolution of most mental health challenges people experience today. The great news is we can discover this proactively and well before symptoms of health challenges emerge. I expect these books to be launched on April 27, 2024, and sometime soon thereafter for the second.
Author Links: Twitter | Facebook | Website
Mark Hattas was blessed with a unique and transformative life experience after building and selling a tech services company. The gift of storytelling emerged as part of that experience and he began writing and writing and writing. Married with five children, sharing wisdom through entertaining, faith-oriented stories has become a passion. Along with Aubrey’s gift of illustration, “IT” is a joy to read and share.
Who Cares?: A Guided Self-Help & Devotional Journal for the Seasons of Life
Who Cares?: A Guided Self-Help & Devotional Journal for the Seasons of Life – a combination of spirituality, inspiration, and psychology harmoniously intertwined within nine transformative seasons. Immerse yourself in a journey where introspection takes center stage, facilitated by contemplative queries that stimulate profound thought. As readers traverse each season, they will encounter a tapestry of empowering affirmations meticulously curated to nurture the depths of their souls. These affirmations are skillfully complemented by enlightening biblical passages, resonating as elevating affirmations.
This meticulous journal traverses a diverse range of themes, encapsulating goal setting, holistic well-being encompassing both physical and mental dimensions, the art of relinquishment, fostering a genuine appreciation for others, and the transformative practice of gratitude. At the heart of this journal, the affirmation “Let love flow!” beckons readers to embrace the concept of boundless, unconditional love, serving as a persistent reminder of their innate capacity for such compassion. At its core, this journal is an instrument for cultivating a positive mindset, reinforcing the belief that our thoughts wield considerable influence, transcending external circumstances. Moreover, it showcases a visually captivating array of cloud images meticulously chosen by the author to symbolize the embrace of “God’s covering and divine presence.” The author adeptly emphasizes the significance of attuning oneself to the divine voice, transcending the constraints of human judgment.
Authored by the compassionate hand of Dr. Melita Murray-Carney, this journal emanates from her personal quest through transformative periods. Driven by her unwavering passion for empowering individuals, she ingeniously weaves her expertise into the fabric of Who Cares? a testament to her profound belief in the potential of journaling. The journal’s genesis lies in the author’s conviction about gratitude’s profound impact, an aspect diligently nurtured through written expression.
While the personal resonance might elude some, the commendable intention behind the creation of this journal is unmistakable. Its potential to kindle transformation in certain individuals is undeniable, rendering it an instrument of potential change in the right hands.
Pages: 132 | ISBN : 166281691X
Genesis of a Genre: The Birth of Christian Rock
Prayer serves as a bridge for communicating with God, and it’s remarkable how each individual can tailor this communication in a way that resonates with them. Just as there are diverse forms of prayer, there are equally diverse expressions of love. The term “Agape” captures God’s unfaltering love for humanity. This very essence inspired the inception of a Christian rock band named Agape. Their primary mission? To convey God’s boundless love through music. However, navigating the world of alternative music presented its own challenges, impacting their journey to recognition.
Joe Markko masterfully chronicles the band’s odyssey, painting a vivid picture of the hurdles, transformations, and milestones experienced by the band members. Through Genesis of a Genre: The Birth of Christian Rock, readers embark on an enlightening journey, exploring how the teachings of the Bible influenced and molded the lives of the band members.
To curate this narrative, Markko diligently conducted interviews and collated first-hand accounts. A noteworthy feature of the book’s conclusion is the collection of letters from individuals who personally interacted with the Agape members. These letters highlight the transformative power of living by Christian principles. The book provides a comprehensive glimpse into the band’s journey, revealing the societal prejudices they faced, their unwavering commitment to exemplifying God’s teachings, and their adaptive evolution in songwriting.
While the book offers a captivating retelling, it’s essential to acknowledge its nature: a retrospective narrative, and with that comes the potential for historical inconsistencies. Markko is transparent about this, ensuring a genuine representation of the gathered information. The anecdotes—centered on a group of friends growing and maturing together—offer an enriching reading experience.
Genesis of a Genre: The Birth of Christian Rock is more than just a foray into a musical genre; it’s an exploration of friendship, spiritual growth, and the profound propagation of divine love. A must-read for those seeking a heartwarming narrative on faith, music, and unity.
Pages: 230 | ISBN : 9798218235444
“IT”
The “it” factor–we have all heard about it. Some have it, and some don’t. Even if we don’t have it, we recognize it in others. Joe isn’t sure if he has “it.” He wants more than anything to thrill audiences and move their hearts with his music. He feels at home on the stage, but he can’t shake the feeling that his skills are not good enough–not the “it” that everyone wants and expects. As he takes his place on an empty theater stage, Joe imagines himself in a big-time band. He begins to play, never knowing that his life is about to take a most unexpected turn.
IT: A Children’s Book about Encouragement and Discovering One’s Gifts, written by Mark Hattas and illustrated by Aubrey Foster, is a story filled with hope, empowerment, and an important lesson in self-confidence. Hattas’s main character, Joe, sees his future wherever he looks when he is onstage, and it is truly amazing. He, like so many of us, lacks the self-confidence to step out of his comfort zone. Joe is a shining example of what it means to be young and have a dream. Readers will find Joe as likable as he is relatable.
I was struck by Hattas’s unique choice of point of view. The use of a second-person point of view is not something you see often in books of this genre, and I found it to be both an interesting and effective tactic. This speaks volumes about the author’s knowledge of his audience and ability to reach readers through his narratives.
Aubrey Foster’s illustrations draw the reader into Joe’s experience onstage. With a style that will remind many readers of anime artwork, Foster has effectively portrayed Hattas’s main character and put his every emotion front and center with clean lines, vibrant colors, and soft highlights that illuminate both her illustrations and Hattas’s message.
IT: A Children’s Book about Encouragement and Discovering One’s Gifts is a beautifully illustrated and spiritually moving account of hope. Hattas’s work is billed as a children’s book, though the message is one for any age. Hattas’s work is deep and thoughtful and will, no doubt, leave a lasting impression on readers.
Pages: 39 | ASIN : B08JHMZDMP
The First Unicorn
Aden, a young horse, possesses an inherent tendency for generosity, dedicating his days to acts of kindness and service to others. In a herd more preoccupied with self-interest, Aden stands out as an exception, extending aid, gathering flowers, and uplifting his mother’s spirits. The narrative unfolds intriguingly as a mysterious messenger bestows upon Aden a gift that illuminates his role as a selfless and caring individual. Yet, the crucial question arises: how will Aden’s newfound gift be received by his peers? As the storyline progresses, Aden must muster his internal fortitude to uphold his convictions, navigating the challenges that lie ahead.
Kathleen J. Shields’ The First Unicorn is an exploration of individuality and self-discovery. Aden, a protagonist distinguishable by his dissimilarity, grapples with the ostracism that readers of all ages can instantly relate to. In this journey, however, Aden emerges as an emblem of tenacity, exemplifying the mantra of ‘being the change’ and illuminating his surroundings with benevolence, regardless of societal perceptions. The narrative’s poignancy is further accentuated by the splendid visual elements crafted by the adept hand of illustrator Aashay Utkarsh. The vibrant hues employed in the illustrations blend harmoniously with the narrative’s optimistic undertones, amplifying the portrayal of authenticity and self-acceptance.
The First Unicorn champions the concept of self-discovery amid misunderstanding—a parable of courage and persistence. The story is interwoven with valor, optimism, and authenticity themes. It is a testament to the unyielding spirit of faith, the miraculous, and the embrace of one’s unique identity, culminating in an inspirational account that resonates across generations.
Pages: 50 | ASIN : B0C9FZ7TW2
Emotional Mastery Is A Journey
Dyami and the Gobi Crystal follows a junior angel who discovers the people she has been sent to watch are in danger and must decide if she should help them. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My inspiration was the Book of Enoch with angels called “watchers.” I imagined the watchers would be the scribes for all records. Inspired by the Kabbalah (or Qabalah), I contrasted the angelic and earthly realms. The Dukán represented heaven on earth with no wars, illnesses, or hunger. Their perfect lives also varied little. The Naga was the destabilizing force which introduced dualism and growth.
Dyami’s story is a coming-of-age tale where she has to realize that choices have consequences. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
Dyami approached the world from a naïve, angelic perspective. She gave and shared freely with others. She didn’t realize some weighed everything by how much it benefited them.
Dyami knew only gratitude, joy, and celebration before her assignment. She couldn’t remain in that blissful state with her heart bond, the corbatu. To properly document records, she needed to feel others’ fears and pain. She didn’t know how to separate their feelings from her own, and became overwhelmed.
She wanted to prove she could be successful. She was passed over for more active assignments. When she became a watcher, she thought it meant staying quiet and taking notes.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
A healthy culture values diversity and creativity. Everyone suffers if personal appearance, music or self-expression are condemned.
Emotional mastery is a journey. Heal, forgive, then integrate painful experiences to return to a peaceful center.
Some people are parasitic. The analogy of the sucker balls is a warning about those who intentionally drain others.
Life can feel lonely. Often, the way out of depression is asking others for help.
Exchanging rights for safety and necessities affect a race’s freedom. It’s analogous to the frog in a heated pot of water. Most Dukan aren’t aware what is happening, and most who know feel powerless to change it.
What is the next book in the Galactic Guardian series about, and when will it be available?
I am 75% complete with the first draft of Dyami and the Sigil of Power. It will be available mid-2024.
Dyami returns to the magical world of Assiya as she strives to become a powerful guardian. Armed with the sorcerer’s staff, Dyami must fight the menacing Samael before she graduates from the Guardian Academy. A hundred years have passed, and the king and queen have become much more controlling. Dyami helps four volunteers who must awaken from the forgetting fog and discover their life’s purpose. With the aid of a wise sorcerer, Dyami unknowingly summons the sigil of power. But will it be enough to protect the volunteers from the King and Queen’s insatiable thirst for power and defeat her greatest foe? The people’s fate is in her hands. This is a story about the many faces of power.
Author Links: Twitter | Facebook | Website | Book Landing
Dyami is a junior angel, assigned to a planet as watcher where magical beings teach the gentle Dukán fantastic abilities. Like a reporter, she must document events onto her gobi crystal to save them for eternity. She wants to be the perfect watcher, which means not interfering in mortal lives. Her specialty is time travel, which is as easy as breathing.
Her mentor is a shape-shifting dragon. In her travels, she angers a grumpy sorcerer and makes friends with a quirky fairy.
She falls in love with the Dukán who can dance mid-air or grow ripe strawberries in seconds. However, their perfect lives are boring as every day is the same. A visiting king and queen promise them excitement and change if together they build a new domain. As Dyami feared, the royals soon make the Dukán slaves.
Dyami’s heart breaks seeing her new friends suffer, while foreign emotions like fear and anger overwhelm her. If she interferes, she risks being punished and banished from the angelic realm.
This fast-paced adventure uses allegory and fantasy to discuss duality, the Tree of Life, and viewing outside time. It’s perfect for those who enjoyed children’s classics like The Chronicles of Narnia or A Wrinkle in Time.
Through A New Lens
Author Interview
The Intrepid Three follows three teenagers, united by fate in a war-ravaged world, who must uncover their intertwined destinies and fight against an all-consuming darkness threatening their realms. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
We created the concept of The Intrepid Three during the beginning stages of the pandemic. We, like most people, found ourselves isolated and secluded at home. Along with the seriousness of COVID-19, we observed political division and social unrest like we had never seen before. This forced us to reflect on and analyze our society in a new way.
Through this new lens, we created the three worlds of Euporia, Aurelia, and Immerxia, each dominated by three different issues. Euporia is plagued by fear due to oppression. Aurelia is driven by complacency from material abundance. And, Immerxia struggles to discern truth owing to the inundation of information (particularly through social media). This book shows an exaggerated version of some of society’s pitfalls. Ultimately, we hope the themes of this book will resonate with readers and can initiate interesting conversations for a more just world.
Dez, Walter, and Arabella are intriguing and well-developed characters. What were some driving ideals behind their character’s development?
This book is Christian allegory, so we tried to give our three protagonists qualities of Christ, albeit the characters are inherently imperfect. Particularly, each of the teens has a supernatural gift, reminiscent of Jesus’ miracles from the Bible, that they discover or have revealed throughout the book. Dez, Walter, and Arabella come from very different backgrounds and experiences, but their fantastical story arcs lead them to the same place, in front of the Author of the universe with a big decision.
We chose adolescent protagonists because we hope younger generations can see the problems of our world clearer and work to alleviate the issues with fervor. Readers will notice the main cast of characters are quite diverse, so we hope people see themselves represented and understand they are an important part of humanity.
What was the collaboration process like between the two of you?
We’ve been married over a decade, and this was the first time we attempted writing together. It took time learning each other’s writing processes (order of writing, pace of writing, etc.) and trying to integrate them. We wrote every word together, but we had to make determinations about every little practical detail, down to who typed. Once we figured out our integrated writing style, the process became smoother. The best experiences of writing this book together were the imaginative conversations that formed new worlds and unique characters.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
Our next book will be the second installment of The Intrepid Three series. We are in the process of writing this story now. We look forward to sharing what happens next with Dez, Arabella, and Walter. We hope to publish the second volume in the next couple of years.
Author Links: Website | Facebook | GoodReads
In a day’s time, their lives are turned upside down when they meet Author, the writer of the universe, and discover they have gifts to heal the past, alter the present, and foresee the future. Author implores the three teens to restore their broken worlds. Complicating the kids’ decision are supernatural forces working to end humanity and free a dark army from their prison known as Animus.
Can Dez, Arabella, and Walter save their worlds? Jump into The Intrepid Three: Animus Revealed to find out.
LITERARY TITAN 