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What people have said about Hot Apple Cider…
“Inventive and filled with grace, Hot Apple Cider is just what its name implies: an open door, a warm invitation, a friend when needed and least expected, a gentle calling toward a generous life. From the shores of Australia and a woman’s grief, to Romania and a choice we all must make, to the town of Stuckville anywhere in the world and a dozen other settings, in prose and poetry and non-fiction, these stories remind us that God draws us together and speaks to us uniquely and in community. If you’re looking for inspiration, something to breathe in for reassurance that you’re not alone, something to remind you to hear God’s voice in acts of compassion, spend an afternoon with Hot Apple Cider. It could just change your life.” Jane Kirkpatrick, award-winning author of All Together in One Place
“Imagine a group of Canadians circled around a campfire. They have two things in common: They’re serious Christians and committed writers. ‘Let me tell you my conversion story,’ calls out Deborah Gyapong. Keith Clemons reads a short story and Brian Austin recites an original poem. Grace Fox shares a devotional piece. As the fire crackles and they sip their cider, all 30 speak from their hearts. That’s the concept of Hot Apple Cider—and it’s a good one." Cecil Murphey, author and co-author of more than 100 books, including Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story and New York Times bestseller 90 Minutes in Heaven
“One story inspired me to read the next. I kept dipping my cup into the barrel until I finished it, my thirst quenched and my faith reinvigorated.” john Arthur martinez, Universal/AGR TV Recording Artist
“In the midst of our often-chilling nightly newscasts, the book Hot Apple Cider offers a tempting and ‘toasty’ reprieve. Filled with stories that will melt your heart, you’ll want to keep it as handy as your favourite throw. This book is a wonderful way to feature the rich giftings of some of Canada’s most talented writers. Let us encourage you to wrap your hands around this cup of creativity and drink in the warming words of these fine authors, many of whom we have been privileged to have as guests on our TV program. Go ahead… pour a cup!” Ron and Ann Mainse, hosts of 100 Huntley Street television program
“In Hot Apple Cider, N. J. Lindquist and Wendy Elaine Nelles have assembled a vibrant compilation showcasing a diversity of styles and subjects. But what makes this such an appealing collection is the unique harmony of voices who are joined together by their individual—yet interconnected— journeys of faith. It’s perfect reading for those days when we all are struggling with something.” Ben Heppner, internationally acclaimed dramatic tenor, opera star and Grammy Award-winning recording artist; Officer of the Order of Canada and recipient of seven honorary doctorate degrees
“Turning the pages of this collection, I have enjoyed reading pages from the lives of many other Canadian story-tellers—old friends, and many new writers. I found here stories that made me smile; stories that raised important questions, especially about the nature of prayer; and stories that challenged and sobered me. God is not explained or defended in these stories—but the experienced presence of ‘Someone with us’ is the common ground from which they spring. This is a book to sample, to savour and to share.” Maxine Hancock, PhD, author and speaker; Professor of Interdisciplinary Studies & Spiritual Theology, Regent College
“Much in the tradition of Chicken Soup for the Soul, these delightful readings are like a cozy cup of hot cider. Settle in for a moment of warmth and reflection. You will find Hot Apple Cider to be exactly what it promises. Enjoy!” Brian C. Stiller, President, Tyndale University College & Seminary
“One always appreciates a positive and encouraging word. Hot Apple Cider not only provides this, but does so in the format of real people sharing real experiences. I personally find that very helpful.” Thomas S. Caldwell, Founder and Chairman of Caldwell Financial Ltd., known as one of the world’s foremost investors in securities exchanges around the world; Member of the Order of Canada
“These are heart-warming accounts of everyday lives infiltrated by an anytime God. For the reader, these stories bring home the mysterious—yet practical—relationship available with One who is always close at hand. We are artfully reminded that hardship dispels the illusion of independence from God, and how He never fails to sustain us amidst suffering.” Sally Start, National Director, Alpha Ministries Canada
“Every person has a story and I have learned so much from listening over the years. I now take more personal time to read, reflect and meditate. Hot Apple Cider is perfect for those quiet moments to slow down, to gain insight and to be refreshed. I often found myself smiling!” Paul Henderson, Director, LeaderImpact group; former NHL and Team Canada hockey player
“Thoroughly enjoyable! Hot Apple Cider is a literary banquet table enticing the reader to explore, taste and ponder a diverse sampling of passions, experiences, intriguing personalities and life lessons. The compelling flavour is Canadian—a unique blend of personal history, culture and faith values. May this be the first of many compilations celebrating Canadian Christian writers.” Margaret Gibb, President, Women Alive
“Whether you sip Hot Apple Cider slowly, one story at a time, or drink deeply and read it all in one sitting, these stories of fun, faith and fellowship by gifted Canadian writers will warm your heart.” Dave Toycen, President and CEO, World Vision Canada
“Hot Apple Cider is a fantastic read. Thirty Canadian authors fill the pages of this book with their unique insights and experiences. Although each author’s contribution is different and distinct—reflecting our diverse nation—the book flows from one story into the next. All the writers share a bountiful supply of rich testimonies of a loving God's faithfulness and sufficiency. I’m thrilled that, finally, we all can be blessed by an anthology that depicts the voices of Canadians!” Johanne Robertson, Publisher, Maranatha News
“Hot Apple Cider is a wonderful collection of stories of divine appointments, the awesomeness of God, and comfort in times of grief. Throughout my reading of these captivating short stories, I was compelled to reflect on my own life, my experiences, and my relationships with God, my family and others. This is an amazing book of encouragement. I loved it!” Marlene O'Neill, multi-award-winning Christian vocalist
If you've read Hot Apple Cider and would like to leave a comment, tell us what parts you liked best, ask a question, or let us know how reading the book impacted you, we'd be delighted to hear from you. You can post your comment right here.
A friend gave me a copy of “Hot Apple Cider” to read and I could not put it down. From the first story I felt drawn into the plight of this poor woman who lost her husband while vacationing in Australia. I felt her pain as if I had been there with her. When I finished the story I wanted to know more about this new friend I had made on the pages of this book.
As I read on through the book I delighted in finding more stories of great Canadian authors who shared their personal stories. I felt some how closer to these authors through reading personal accounts of their lives.
Like the perfect cup of hot apple cider with a mysterious blend of delicious spices the book left me wondering what flavour of story would come next. The book is filled with such a delightful collection of fiction and non-fiction stories on a variety of subjects. Some of the stories made me think, question or evaluate my own life, while other stories were sheer pleasure.
The next time you are looking for the perfect gift for a friend I highly recommend this book.
I thought I loved the Chicken Soup series, but this is even better! All Canadian…I can’t get enough.
Kimberley Payne
Like the well known drink for which it is named, Hot Apple Cider offers comfort and nourishment to the reader. This wonderful collection of stories and poems by Canadian Christian Writers provide a balanced diet. For example, in two short pages, Grace Fox, tells us two anecdotes from her life and the reader will never forget that “People Matter Most”. One of the longer stories, “Where have all the Mothers Gone,” will bring you to tears as you ride with Charity from home to clinic to hospital only to die in childbirth. There are stories that call us to care for one another, stories that entertain, stories that teach. The vivid images and feelings of the poems that are sprinkled sparingly throughout the book emphasize the messages of the stories.
Many of the authors share their own life experiences. All of them offer wisdom for living as they share their faith in a personal God who cares about each one of us.
Although the stories are easy reading, each one whetting your appetite for the next, I recommend that you read only one entry a day. Just as with good hot apple cider, let its flavour roll around your tongue. Sit and ponder its message. Give your mind and soul time to digest its beauty and its wisdom. As it settles into your heart, you will feel the warmth of God’s peace released within you.
Hot Apple Cider was a treat to read, and I know I’ll dip into it again and again. No sentimentalizing, no dramatization. Just real people writing about real situations, and faith in a real God who makes a difference. Truth presented through articles, poetry and fiction, accented with lovely illustrations.
Canadian Christian writers are a vibrant and articulate group, and Hot Apple Cider is a wonderful sample of some of their work.
Congratulations to everyone involved in this ground-breaking project.
Real stories, real people, real faith. And some fiction too! I’m enjoying this book so much, I’ve picked up a second copy to give away on my blog Deadline is May 23.
I want to thank you for this book. It was wonderful. I like heart warming stories that fill your heart with encouragement and faith. We need each others stories to help us hang in there and grow.