I’ve been waiting and now it’s here! I’m reading “The Deliverer” by Kathi Macias, is the third and final book in her Freedom Series. Kathi writes fiction with a message. Her stories both engage and inspire to action. Today we get to talk to Kathi about “The Deliverer,” her writing, and the topic of human trafficking.
Kathi, what is The Deliverer about?
The Deliverer picks up just months after Special Delivery leaves off, continuing with the stories of Mara, freed from slavery but still struggling with scars and memories from the past; Jonathan, attending Bible college but strongly drawn to Mara, despite her past; and Lawan, having escaped the brothel in Thailand and miraculously reunited with her younger sister in the US and adopted by the same family. Will Mara be able to move past the pain and hatred that bind her, even if it means traveling back to the place where her parents betrayed her and sold her into sexual slavery? Will she allow The Deliverer to set her free—once and for all?
Your books – which you call “parables with a purpose” – are on topics such as human trafficking, the persecuted church, illegal immigration, and homelessness. Some might call you an advocate. Why is it important for Christians, and the church as a whole, to discuss these issues?
I believe Jesus is our example and that’s what He told to His followers—parables with purpose. He didn’t just tell them “nice stories” to entertain them. He told stories that would grab them right where they lived, and then challenge them to change their hearts, their minds, and their lives. The Church has always been at the forefront of serious social change, leading the charge to abolish slavery for instance, and leading the charge on these other issues is right where the Church needs to be now. The first step is to discuss the issues, to make people aware of them, and then to call them to action. I believe gripping fiction is one of the most effective ways to do that.
You always include a character in your books who is an intercessor. Why is that so important to you?
There were intercessors in my own life who prayed me through some incredibly dangerous and difficult times, and I appreciate those heroes of the faith more than I can express. Highlighting their importance in my books accomplishes two things: it enables me to honor those faithful intercessors who often get no recognition in this world, and it also calls others to get involved in intercession as well.
What was your original objective in writing the Freedom Series trilogy? And, how are your readers taking action?
Originally, I wanted to alert readers to the horrific crime of human trafficking and challenge them to get involved in fighting it some way. That seems to be happening, but on such a larger scope than I had imagined. The response from readers is overwhelming! Pastors have written to say they are challenging their entire church to get involved on some level, and I’m being invited to speak all over the country on this topic. Readers tell me they are posting about my books all over the net to help snag people’s attention. I’m getting invitations to speak on radio and TV as well. I’ve also been contacted by readers who are getting involved in setting up safe houses for rescued victims, which is a huge need. I was even contacted by the Department of Homeland Security and invited to participate in group conference calls on the topic. Overall, I’m thrilled at the way God is using these books to help sound the alarm and to “rescue the perishing.”
For more information about Kathi, her writing, and her speaking ministry visit her website.
Thank you for participating in the CSS Virtual Book Tour for THE DELIVERER by KATHI MACIAS.
For information where FREE copies of this book will be given away, please visit: http://christianspeakerservices1.wordpress.com/. We are giving away a complete 3-book set of the Freedom Series, including the latest release, THE DELIVERER.
Also follow on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/CSSVBT.KathiMacias.
STAY TUNED … more books by Kathi Macias will be on tour soon. Visit: http://www.christianspeakersservices.com/virtual-book-promotions.html.