Persecuted, by Robin Parrish (Book Review and Giveaway)

The winner is: Lisa Boyle! Congrats, Lisa!

Thanks to everyone who entered!

Words are easy. It doesn't take a whole lot of guts to say, "I believe the Bible, and I stand by Truth it contains." But what if you are threatened? What if you know you could lose everything, even your life, if you don't back down, water down, or step down? What if you are promised fame and money if you compromise? Would you falter then? Sometimes greed is stronger even than fear. 

These are the choices John Luther must make in this exciting, political thriller. As a well known evangelist, he is in the position to help along--or hinder--a bill that sounds nicely tolerant but is in fact a death knell to religious freedom. His decision, and the events that unfold as a result, will open your eyes to what might actually be going on in some political and religious circles. 

This book wasn't what I expected, but it was definitely a page turner. At first I was skeptical of the plot. I mean, really? Could something like this happen for real? But the more I read, the more convinced I was that yes, it probably could, and maybe it is. Because there are some who will stop at nothing to silence the voice of truth, and "tolerance" is a great way to accomplish that goal.

Near the beginning of the book I was uncomfortable with the manner in which a certain event was described and, for that reason my teen will not be reading it for awhile. Otherwise, there was nothing objectionable. 

The movie Persecuted is in theaters now, I believe. It is rated PG-13 and because of the incident I mentioned I wouldn't recommend it for minors. I have not seen the movie, but I have watched a trailer for it. 

For an exciting read that will give you plenty to ponder, I recommend this book. 

One of my readers will win a copy of the book, Persecuted! 

To enter, simply comment below. That's all! :) Oh, and please share, share, share! 

The giveaway ends Monday, Aug. 4th, and the winner will be announced by 9 p.m.

More about Persecuted:

Buzz about the film:

 "Bringing the battle of FREE SPEECH to light." FoxNews"House of Cards for the religious sect." - POLITICO"A big thumbs-up." - American Family AssociationAbout The Book:The Question Is Not IF Attempts Will Be Made to Limit Religious Freedoms, But WhenThe most popular evangelist of his day, John Luther, simply wants to share the Gospel and enjoy a quiet life with his family. He never asked to be at the center of a political controversy, but an ill wind has been blowing through the halls of Congress, and supporters of a new religious-equality bill see Luther's endorsement as critical. But when Luther refuses to lend his support, he unknowingly sets in motion an explosive plan bent on destroying his reputation and undermining everything for which he stands. His once-normal life is turned upside down as he becomes a fugitive left with only one dangerous option--putting everything he holds most dear at risk while he fights to expose the truth. It is a mission that brings him face-to-face with the coming storm of persecution that could threaten the very fabric of our nation's freedoms.About The Author:Robin Parrish is a journalist who's written about the intersection of faith and pop culture for more than a decade. He's also the author of Offworld and The Dominion Trilogy . Robin and his wife and children live in North Carolina. Visit Robin's website...www.robinparrish.com

Be sure to check out PERSECUTED the movie at a theatre near you, July 18th!

Visit the official movie website: http://www.persecutedmovie.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/persecutedmovie

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

Ring the Bell DVD: Review/Giveaway

"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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."

As a Christian parent, I know how hard it is to find good, clean movies for family movie night. I firmly believe that more Christian films need to be made, and I applaud those who are working to fill that need. 

Ring the Bell is rated PG, though I can't imagine why. There is absolutely nothing objectionable in this movie. (The girl wears a low-necked top and a little cleavage is visible, but it isn't too obvious.) You can watch this with your family without worrying about having to turn down the volume or skipping scenes. There is no bad language, no violence, no suggestive jokes, etc. 

Now, I must give my honest opinion: while I enjoyed parts of this film, and though I was moved by it, I didn't fall in love with it. The acting seemed forced, the jokes fell flat, everything was far too predictable, and there was too much diologue. I'm pretty sure that younger children will grow bored quickly. However, there were some genuinely touching moments in the film, and the overall message was very good, and one that we all need to hear. 

To recap:

What I liked:

• There was nothing offensive.
• The music was good.
• The message was fantastic.

What I disliked:

• The amateur feel of the film, especially the acting.
• It was too predicatable...too "perfect".
• There was very little action and far too much talking. 

Overall, I think this is a decent movie with a great message that could be watched by the entire family. 

About Ring the Bell:

Ring The Bell shares the story of a slick, big city sports agent Rob Decker who seems to have it all. But on his latest mission to sign a high school baseball superstar, Rob becomes stranded in a small town where the simplicity of life—and the faith of the people—stand in stark contrast to his own fast-paced, win-at-all-costs mindset. Torn between these two worlds, will Rob have the courage to let faith transform his life? This heartwarming story of redemption is sure to entertain and inspire the whole family.

Ring The Bell features a host of well-known Christian music artists, such as Mark Hall along with his band Casting Crowns, Steven Curtis Chapman, and Matthew West, all who play a role in this inspirational drama. Several former and current Major League Baseball all-stars are also featured in the film: ESPN analysts John Kruk and Rick Sutcliffe (a former Cy Young Award winner), along with Ben Zobrist.

This family-friendly movie was produced by Mark Miller, Beach Street Records' founder and Casting Crowns’ producer. Miller, who is also the lead singer and founder of country music group Sawyer Brown, co-wrote the script with Thomas Weber and Weber directed the production. 

Ring the Bell is available on DVD for only $19.99 

DVD Special Features:


The Heart of "Ring the Bell"

Casting Crowns “The Well” Music Video


On Set with Casting Crowns

Famous Faces


A Very Special Movie


Ringing the Bell


The Artists and Music of "Ring The Bell"

Website:  http://ringthebellthemovie.com

Watch the Trailer: http://ringthebellthemovie.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RingTheBellTheMovie

You have an opportunity to win a DVD of  Ring the Bell! Just leave a comment below about your favorite family movie, and you will be entered. The winner will be announced on Friday, July 5th.