Loves God, Likes Girls by Sally Gary

Loves God Likes Girls: A Memoir by Sally Gary is her story of being raised in a devoutly Christian, yet dysfunctional family. Her mother was extremely overprotective, but could also be hard to please and her father had unexpected bouts of rage usually followed by an emotional disconnect from the family. The uncertainties of pleasing her parents caused Sally to doubt her value, her identity, and to be unable to feel secure in any relationships she had as she grew older.  She believed that women were consistent and comfortable, yet felt that she would have been better off as a boy. Although she did date boys, she believed no man would really want her. Sally also had "crushes" on a couple of girls, but did not admit to herself that she was attracted to women sexually until after she had entered college. After going through a lot of Christian counseling (alone and with her parents) and having a network of supportive friends, she continues to live in the tension between same-sex attraction and her belief that a gay relationship is against God's will.

 This is an honest look at Sally Gary's life and some of the factors that may, or may not, have played a role in her attraction to women. When I was offered the chance to read this, I had doubts I could fully relate to her story, but was hoping for a greater understanding. First off, this is a woman I could definitely be friends with since we have quite a bit in common. She also has an engaging writing style that kept my attention and the things she had to say stayed with me. Actually, there were times I would read how she felt and think, "Me too...but I have never had an attraction to another woman." Admittedly, she had some very bizarre encounters with males in leadership who abused their authority, but did that make a difference?

In fact, there are no definite answers offered. The author does provide answers of ways that a Christian can be more compassionate and willing to listen and the benefits of a strong support group. As a single woman, I certainly understand the lonliness she sometimes feels, and it isn't something you always feel comfortable sharing within a church setting. There are Singles groups that provides a safe haven for some, but how many are welcoming to those who struggle with homosexuality? I would have liked to have had a few more answers on having a safe place for a civil discussion, and her struggles as an adult. On the other hand, too many authors are willing to share way more detail than I want to know. I do recommend this book to others as the chance to get to know someone who struggles with an attraction that she honestly feels is against God's will. We all have them, but there is no doubt that this is an issue that can cause outrage no matter what your belief system or personal experience.

I was given a copy of this book by New Leaf Publishing Group in hopes I would give a fair and honest review. There was no compensation and all opinions are my own.

 SALLY GARY holds degrees in communication from Abilene Christian University and a law degree from Texas Tech University. A former high school debate coach, trial lawyer, and college professor, Sally is a teacher at heart. Her deepest, darkest secret has become her greatest passion--educating people about same-sex attraction. She is the founder and director of CenterPeace, a non-profit ministry providing safe places for conversation about same-sex attraction in families and churches. 

SALLY GARY holds degrees in communication from Abilene Christian University and a law degree from Texas Tech University. A former high school debate coach, trial lawyer, and college professor, Sally is a teacher at heart. Her deepest, darkest secret has become her greatest passion--educating people about same-sex attraction. She is the founder and director of CenterPeace, a non-profit ministry providing safe places for conversation about same-sex attraction in families and churches. Sally lives in Abilene, Texas. - See more at: http://www.bible.acu.edu/leafwood/pg.asp?ID=199#sthash.FbpuP9s9.dpuf

SALLY GARY holds degrees in communication from Abilene Christian University and a law degree from Texas Tech University. A former high school debate coach, trial lawyer, and college professor, Sally is a teacher at heart. Her deepest, darkest secret has become her greatest passion--educating people about same-sex attraction. She is the founder and director of CenterPeace, a non-profit ministry providing safe places for conversation about same-sex attraction in families and churches. Sally lives in Abilene, Texas. - See more at: http://www.bible.acu.edu/leafwood/pg.asp?ID=199#sthash.FbpuP9s9.dpuf

Get Real by Jamy Whitaker

Get Real: Stop Hiding Behind the Mask by Jamy Whitaker deals with hiding behind a facade that we present to others instead of letting them see the real person we are. We are busy trying to make others think we have it all under control and too insecure in our relationships with others to let our guard down and let others know that we have fears, failures, and frustrations. We don't always look at ourselves as God sees us and have a tendency to concentrate on the 'here and now' and lose sight of the fact that our time here on Earth is too short to play games that hinders the shared community God intended us to have with others. 

This is a short book, but covers many issues in a clear, concise manner that cut straight to the heart of the matter. We play so many roles in life: child, spouse, parent, friend, etc. that it is easy to forget who we really are. Sometimes it is a matter of trying to please and properly respond to others to meet their needs. We can get so bogged down that we actually don't even know for ourselves what we really think. Often, though, it is a false front we put on because we think everyone else manages her life better than we do.

Jamy Whitaker's book is divided into 3 different sections:

1. Identity- Instead of concentrating on who we are in relationship to others, we need to own who we are in Christ.

2. Insecurities- This section dealt a lot with fear. You know God is available, but He also wants you to pursue Him. He has treasures hidden in His Word that are waiting for you discover them. Reach out to Him and be willing to follow His plan for you.

3. Perspective- Are you stuck in looking at things from one angle only? Or, are you stuck in past mistakes and feel that you are trapped? It is vital that you keep moving forward and keep your eyes on God.

There was a lot to be gleaned from this book, and the questions that are found in the back make this ideal for personal study or to share within a community of friends who are all willing to put aside their masks. The Biblical examples, along with her personal experiences and thoughts, blend together to make this ideal reading for anyone is longing to be set free to be the woman God intended.

I received a free copy of this book to review as part of the CWA Review Crew. I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. Any opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations.

A Strange Brand Of Happy

After losing his job, David (Joe Boyd) is pushed by his roommate (Benjamin Keller) to hire a life coach (Joyce) to motivate him. When Joyce (Rebecca St. James) invites David to join the volunteer group that she takes to a retirement home, David discovers his manipulative ex-boss, William (Hunter Shepard), is part of the group. The retirees, noticing that both new volunteers are interested in Joyce, decide to add to the drama by deliberately pushing the rivalry to a higher level. The competition goes extreme and ultimately leads David on a journey that may mean he loses all he hoped to find.

Written and directed by Brad Wise, A Strange Brand Of Happy (Rebel Pilgrim Productions) is due to hit theaters September 13, 2013.




My Review: A Strange Brand Of Happy is not what many think of when they think "Christian film", but is more of a faith-friendly type film. I think of it as a quirky, romantic comedy. It's not a film for children, although they will not see or hear anything inappropriate. It is probably more along the lines of a PG film. It made me laugh as I watched and I got a bit teary-eyed during one scene (unusual for me). It is a fun film for "date night" or to see with a group of friends. I don't want to give away too much, so I will just summarize a bit below.

David lost his job, albeit one he hated, but doesn't know what direction he should take to find meaning in his life. Can he find fulfillment in a new career or is there more to being happy? His friend, Ben, believes a "life coach" is the answer and sets his friend up with one who is also very attractive. David is unemployed, unfocused, a bit immature, and never really thinks about God. Joyce finds joy in her life and believes God finds joy in her when she uses the talents He has given her. Will their professional relationship stand in the way of a personal one?

David and Joyce

Joyce believes one of the best ways to help yourself is by serving others, and convinces David to volunteer at a retirement home. The residents (Shirley Jones, Marty Ingels, Venida Evans, Bobby Rodgers) quickly involve themselves in the lives of these volunteers and their manipulations are hilarious. Yet, they also provide the help and guidance David needs to get his life heading toward a happy future after decisions made nearly cause him to lose everything.

I called this a romantic comedy, but it is more than just boy meets girl, they flirt, they fight, and love conquers all. This is also about finding the gifts God has given you and using them. It is also about finding God when you seek Him. Sometimes you just have to know where to look.

How does a flyer, a landlady (Bekka Prewitt) with a crush, a poet (Anis Mojgani), and a knight in paint-splattered armor fit in this story? You will have to see the film this September to get those answers!!

Cast and Crew of A Strange Brand Of Happy

 This film is also participating in a new ticket reservation plan that is a lot of fun called Seatzy. Check it out in the link below and find out how you can get this film to your area and win prizes! 

Important Links:

A Strange Brand Of Happy website

Reserve Tickets on Seatzy

Like ASBOH on Facebook

Follow @StrangeHappy on Twitter

Like Rebel Pilgrim Productions on Facebook

CFDb Interviews Joe Boyd

CFDb Interviews Brad Wise

*I was shown an advanced screening of this film in order to write a review. I was not required to write a positive review, but only for my honest opinion.

Dead Lawyers Tell No Tales by Randy Singer

Dead Lawyers Tell No Tales:
Landon Reed is an ex-quarterback convicted of organizing a points-shaving scheme. During his time in prison, he found forgiveness and faith and earned his law degree. Now he longs for an opportunity to prove his loyalty and worth. Be careful what you ask for.

Harry McNaughton is one of the founding partners of McNaughton & Clay—and the only lawyer willing to take a chance employing an ex-con-turned-lawyer. Though Landon initially questions Harry’s ethics and methods, it’s clear the crusty old lawyer has one of the most brilliant legal minds Landon has ever encountered. The two dive into preparing a defense for one of the highest-profile murder trials Virginia Beach has seen in decades when Harry is gunned down in what appears to be a random mugging. Then two more lawyers are killed when the firm’s private jet crashes. Authorities suspect someone has a vendetta against McNaughton & Clay, leaving Landon and the remaining partner as the final targets.

As Landon struggles to keep the firm together, he can’t help but wonder, is the plot related to a shady case from McNaughton & Clay’s past, or to the murder trial he’s neck-deep in now? And will he survive long enough to find out?

In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes. All opinions are my own.

Randy Singer is one of my favorite authors of Legal/Suspense fiction, but this was not one of my favorites of his books. That being said, this is still an intriguing tale with many story lines that appear to be separate yet are all intricately interwoven. Some of the behavior just doesn't make as much sense to me, and I would sometimes lose interest while I was reading. To be fair, I am trying to read during a time when I am swamped with work, but I normally get more caught up in a book. However, I am interested enough to put this on my "keeper" shelf to reread later. 

Randy Singer's Website

Author video

Book Trailer

Read Chapter 1

Randy Singer Q & A 

Randy Singer is a critically acclaimed author and veteran trial attorney. He has penned nine legal thrillers, including his award-winning debut novel "Directed Verdict." In addition to his law practice and writing, Randy serves as a teaching pastor for Trinity Church in Virginia Beach, Virginia. He calls it his "Jekyll and Hyde thing"--part lawyer, part pastor. He also teaches classes in advocacy and ethics at Regent Law School and serves on the school's Board of Visitors. He and his wife, Rhonda, live in Virginia Beach. They have two grown children.

Randy Singer is a critically acclaimed, award-winning author and veteran trial attorney. He has penned more than 10 legal thrillers and was recently a finalist with John Grisham and Michael Connelly for the inaugural Harper Lee Prize for Legal Fiction sponsored by the University of Alabama School of Law and the ABA Journal. Randy runs his own law practice and has been named to Virginia Business magazine's select list of "Legal Elite" litigation attorneys. In addition to his law practice and writing, Randy serves as teaching pastor for Trinity Church in Virginia Beach, Virginia. He calls it his "Jekyll and Hyde thing"—part lawyer, part pastor. He also teaches classes in advocacy and civil litigation at Regent Law School and, through his church, is involved with ministry opportunities in India. He and his wife, Rhonda, live in Virginia Beach. They have two grown children. - See more at: http://www.tyndale.com/10_Authors/author_bio.php?authorID=1011#sthash.oQXnvmth.dpuf

Landon Reed is an ex-quarterback convicted of organizing a points-shaving scheme. During his time in prison, he found forgiveness and faith and earned his law degree. Now he longs for an opportunity to prove his loyalty and worth. Be careful what you ask for.

Harry McNaughton is one of the founding partners of McNaughton & Clay—and the only lawyer willing to take a chance employing an ex-con-turned-lawyer. Though Landon initially questions Harry’s ethics and methods, it’s clear the crusty old lawyer has one of the most brilliant legal minds Landon has ever encountered. The two dive into preparing a defense for one of the highest-profile murder trials Virginia Beach has seen in decades when Harry is gunned down in what appears to be a random mugging. Then two more lawyers are killed when the firm’s private jet crashes. Authorities suspect someone has a vendetta against McNaughton & Clay, leaving Landon and the remaining partner as the final targets.

As Landon struggles to keep the firm together, he can’t help but wonder, is the plot related to a shady case from McNaughton & Clay’s past, or to the murder trial he’s neck-deep in now? And will he survive long enough to find out? - See more at: http://www.tyndale.com/Dead-Lawyers-Tell-No-Tales/9781414383842#.UcWwopym

Dead DLandon Reed is an ex-quarterback convicted of organizing a points-shaving scheme. During his time in prison, he found forgiveness and faith and earned his law degree. Now he longs for an opportunity to prove his loyalty and worth. Be careful what you ask for.

Harry McNaughton is one of the founding partners of McNaughton & Clay—and the only lawyer willing to take a chance employing an ex-con-turned-lawyer. Though Landon initially questions Harry’s ethics and methods, it’s clear the crusty old lawyer has one of the most brilliant legal minds Landon has ever encountered. The two dive into preparing a defense for one of the highest-profile murder trials Virginia Beach has seen in decades when Harry is gunned down in what appears to be a random mugging. Then two more lawyers are killed when the firm’s private jet crashes. Authorities suspect someone has a vendetta against McNaughton & Clay, leaving Landon and the remaining partner as the final targets.

As Landon struggles to keep the firm together, he can’t help but wonder, is the plot related to a shady case from McNaughton & Clay’s past, or to the murder trial he’s neck-deep in now? And will he survive long enough to find out? - See more at: http://www.tyndale.com/Dead-Lawyers-Tell-No-Tales/9781414383842#.UcWwopymXVI

Limitless by Nick Vujicic

Limitless: Devotions for a Ridiculously Good Life 
From limbless to limitless – anything is possible with God!

Nick Vujicic knows there is no greater hope than trusting in God’s plan for your life. Born without arms or legs, Nick has experienced both the peak of hope and the depth of despair. But he has overcome his circumstances and physical limitations by clinging to his faith and understanding the limitless love and power God has for every person.

Now he wants you to experience that same reassurance of hope and the power of God, everyday. In these fifty inspirational devotions, Nick shares his most compelling, hard-earned wisdom to help you face obstacles with confidence and courage and point you toward God. Whether you struggle with faith, relationships, career challenges, anger, health concerns, self-esteem, finding balance, or doubt in your dreams, Nick’s biblical encouragement and positive attitude will transform your life and show you that you can be limitless because God is limitless.

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen” (Ephesians 3:20-21). (from the publisher)


I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

This book is a devotional that draws from some of his previous books, but it really doesn't matter whether or not you have read them. This is a small book intended strictly to share a portion of Scripture, a personal anecdote from either his own life or a friend's, and ending with words of encouragement and inspiration. Personally, I am not a huge fan of the short devotional type, but that does not take away from this being a well written book that I will recommend to anyone searching for a gift for someone who is struggling or for their own personal devotion. It is divided into 50 brief chapters that can be savored slowly for those who just need a few choice words to mull over (or for my few friends who truly dislike reading). So, while I prefer to dig deeper in my daily devotions, this is great for when you need just a quick reminder that God's love for you is limitless and you can trust Him no matter what obstacles you face.

Check out more about Nick Vujicic & Limitless on the links below.

• Author's Website
• Nick on Facebook
• Nick on Twitter
• More Info
• Read Chapter One
• Author Bio

From limbless to limitless – anything is possible with God!

Nick Vujicic knows there is no greater hope than trusting in God’s plan for your life. Born without arms or legs, Nick has experienced both the peak of hope and the depth of despair. But he has overcome his circumstances and physical limitations by clinging to his faith and understanding the limitless love and power God has for every person.

Now he wants you to experience that same reassurance of hope and the power of God, everyday. In these fifty inspirational devotions, Nick shares his most compelling, hard-earned wisdom to help you face obstacles with confidence and courage and point you toward God. Whether you struggle with faith, relationships, career challenges, anger, health concerns, self-esteem, finding balance, or doubt in your dreams, Nick’s biblical encouragement and positive attitude will transform your life and show you that you can be limitless because God is limitless.

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen” (Ephesians 3:20-21). - See more at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?work=218362#sthash.40ikQnub.dpuf

From limbless to limitless – anything is possible with God!

Nick Vujicic knows there is no greater hope than trusting in God’s plan for your life. Born without arms or legs, Nick has experienced both the peak of hope and the depth of despair. But he has overcome his circumstances and physical limitations by clinging to his faith and understanding the limitless love and power God has for every person.

Now he wants you to experience that same reassurance of hope and the power of God, everyday. In these fifty inspirational devotions, Nick shares his most compelling, hard-earned wisdom to help you face obstacles with confidence and courage and point you toward God. Whether you struggle with faith, relationships, career challenges, anger, health concerns, self-esteem, finding balance, or doubt in your dreams, Nick’s biblical encouragement and positive attitude will transform your life and show you that you can be limitless because God is limitless.

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen” (Ephesians 3:20-21). - See more at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?work=218362#sthash.40ikQnub.dpuf

From limbless to limitless – anything is possible with God!

Nick Vujicic knows there is no greater hope than trusting in God’s plan for your life. Born without arms or legs, Nick has experienced both the peak of hope and the depth of despair. But he has overcome his circumstances and physical limitations by clinging to his faith and understanding the limitless love and power God has for every person.

Now he wants you to experience that same reassurance of hope and the power of God, everyday. In these fifty inspirational devotions, Nick shares his most compelling, hard-earned wisdom to help you face obstacles with confidence and courage and point you toward God. Whether you struggle with faith, relationships, career challenges, anger, health concerns, self-esteem, finding balance, or doubt in your dreams, Nick’s biblical encouragement and positive attitude will transform your life and show you that you can be limitless because God is limitless.

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen” (Ephesians 3:20-21). - See more at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?work=218362#sthash.40ikQnub.dpuf

The Point by William E. Jefferson

The Point: The Redemption of Oban Ironbout 

In his breakout novel of spiritual revelation, William E. Jefferson invites readers on a journey of discovery where "joy and meaning break through pain."

Hollie and Goodwin Macbreeze, a young couple in search of refreshment and inspiration, travel to the metaphorical island of Estillyen where creative monks stage dramatic readings of biblical stories. While Hollie focuses on the readings, Goodwin has another goal: to search out the house he sketched as a boy, and possibly meet its reclusive owner, Oban Ironbout, a former friend of Goodwin's grandfather. The unlikely and unwelcome relationship Hollie and Goodwin form with Ironbout brings him out of his years of bitterness and into the monk community and their fascinating ways with words. In the process, the couple discovers unexpected answers to their own dilemmas.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Handlebar Marketing as part of their Book Review Blogger program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

 I have to give this one more of a mixed review. There is no doubt that the book is well written by someone who loves words. I guess I am simply too pragmatic to get into the fanciful names of the monks, the animals, etc. None of the characters really came to life for me and the detailed descriptions caused my mind to wander so much that I would lose interest in the book. I would start to get into the flow of the story when it would change to a different storyline. I guess one could say, I lost the point of what is going on. I did look at some of the biblical readings from a new slant, which is good, but I would have preferred reading them as one book and the Oban Ironbout story as another. I plan on reading the book that way later, but I was asked to read the book as it is written. I can appreciate that this is a book that many people will find insightful, but it just isn't a style for me.

Sheriff Burns: BTFS Characters

Chief Burns

The dispatch area goes silent. There's a small town rumor-mill connection between Adam Wells and the subject of suicide, which seems to transcend the commotion of the protestors outside. A ring of keys jangling in his hand, Police Chief Burns walks to the heavy steel cell door. A portal which would lead Pastor Adam Wells to Senator John Cutter and both, perhaps, to their destiny. Hesitating, Chief Burns recalls....

To learn more about Barry Corbin, check out:
Barry Corbin at IMDb
Barry Corbin website
Barry Corbin on Facebook
Also, be sure to check out this TXA21 television interview with Barry.


 Important Info:

• LIKE Beyond The Farthest Star on Facebook
• BTFS website
• BTFS on IMDb
• Follow @beyondmovie on Twitter
• Subcribe to Beyond The Farthest Star on Youtube
• Follow BTFS on Pinterest

  What Would You Do To Save Your Family?

Plot outline:

A twist of fate brings the national spotlight to a forgotten Texas town and a once famous preacher has an opportunity to either regain his former glory or seize one last chance to restore his fractured family. Narrated by his fifteen-year-old daughter, we watch as Adam Wells, a minister driven by the prospect of achieving greatness as the next nationally-syndicated TV Evangelist, faces the possibility of laying down his opportunity at “celebrity” and even his own life in order to become something even greater... a loving husband and father to his wife and daughter.

 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Beyond The Farthest Star will be in theaters in 2015. If you want to help get it to a cinema near you, click BRING IT and let them know you want to see this film!

Pastor Adam Wells: BTFS Character

Pastor Adam Wells

In Cutter's hand, Adam notices an official-looking file with the label: 'WELLS, ADAM: THOMPSON INVESTIGATION AGENCY, CASE *098654'. "Know what's in this file, son?", Senator John Cutter asks as he steps from the darkness of the cell into the meager holding area light. In an instant, First Church's newly appointed pastor knew its contents...

For more on Todd, please check out the following links:

Todd Terry on IMDb
Todd Terry on BeyondTheFarthestStar.com
Todd Terry on IMDb resume
Todd Terry on CastingBeyond video: Casting Beyond video
Todd Terry on BTFS Cast Interview

 Important Info:

• LIKE Beyond The Farthest Star on Facebook
• BTFS website
• BTFS on IMDb
• Follow @beyondmovie on Twitter
• Subcribe to Beyond The Farthest Star on Youtube
• Follow BTFS on Pinterest

  What Would You Do To Save Your Family?

Plot outline:

A twist of fate brings the national spotlight to a forgotten Texas town and a once famous preacher has an opportunity to either regain his former glory or seize one last chance to restore his fractured family. Narrated by his fifteen-year-old daughter, we watch as Adam Wells, a minister driven by the prospect of achieving greatness as the next nationally-syndicated TV Evangelist, faces the possibility of laying down his opportunity at “celebrity” and even his own life in order to become something even greater... a loving husband and father to his wife and daughter.

 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Beyond The Farthest Star will be in theaters in 2013. If you want to help get it to a cinema near you, click BRING IT and let them know you want to see this film!