August 2006 Newsletter
BLUE MOUNTAIN BACKROADS
Well, it's August, and it got here very fast. It seems just a short time ago I was writing spring newsletters and now it's late summer. It's also one of the hottest months here in the Ozarks, and I assume where you live too. It's a good month to sit under the air conditioner, sip cold drinks, read good books, and talk about how hot it is. Actually the best thing about August is that a lot of very special people were born in that month, including me. No applause, please.
It's also a good month for vine ripened tomatoes, ice-cold watermelon, and homemade ice cream. Does anyone still make ice cream the old fashioned way, with a crank turned freezer and crushed ice? We haven't done that for a while. Maybe I should get out the old freezer and see if I still know how. And speaking of ice cream, Deborah Vogts has a recipe for the homemade version on her website. You can find it at www.deborahvogts.com
Since it's too hot to do much of anything else, it's also a good month to get some writing done. There should be a special place in heaven, created just for writers. A lovely book lined room with old-fashioned oak library tables, comfortable wing backed chairs with matching hassocks, a fire on the hearth, and plenty of reading lamps. And, of course, a computer so we can check our e-mail. Now that's my idea of paradise.
Keep writing, keep sending out, and may the rejection fairy forget where you live.
WRITING NEWS OF THE MONTH
Janice Thompson has a terrific ministry website, www.thewriteheart.com. Janice has this to say, "Not long ago the Lord laid an idea on my heart – a ministry site for writers. After a season to do research, I came up with the name "The Write Heart" which really seemed to fit. It is my prayer that this will be a site where Christian writers, editors, marketing experts, and others in the business can come to be refreshed, encouraged, and uplifted. There will always be openings for submissions from fellow writers, so feel free to contact me at booksbyjanice@aol.com with your jottings. Be blessed, Inklings."
This sounds like a great idea. We all need something like this and sharing through our "jottings" is sure to be helpful. You can check out Janice's site at www.janiceathompson.com .
Also, Janice's cozy mystery, The Wedding Caper, will be released around the same time as the ACFW conference, and will be a frontrunner for the new Spyglass Lane line. You can order advance copies online at Amazon.com. Great, Janice, you're doing good, girl.
If you write mysteries and haven't checked out the KEEP ME IN SUSPENSE website, you're missing a treat. This site is the team effort of Lisa Harris, Lynette Sowell, Candice Miller Speare, and Wynda Dyson. And let me tell you, The Keep Me in Suspense Team know what they are doing. The idea is to provide a central location for CBA mystery writers and readers.
Everywhere you look in the bookstores, suspense, cozies, and mysteries are taking up more and more shelf space. People love them. That's why these writers have started this blogspot. For both readers and writers, this is your door to the inner workings of writing inspirational suspense and mysteries. They'll talk about police procedures, clues, red herrings, and so much more, like how to keep a reader on the edge of his seat. Or how to make your story a page-turner. They'll also discuss the newest inspirational mysteries and suspense books coming out, who's writing them, and who's publishing them. Whatever your question is they'll be able to tackle it.
You'll find tons of information here that will help you do a better job of writing suspenseful mysteries. Upcoming guest bloggers: James Scott Bell, Colleen Coble, Kathy Mackel, John Robinson, and Gayle Roper, and we all know what kind of books they write. Good mystery/suspense writers all, with a lot of helpful information. There will also be reviews of new releases and monthly contests where you can win free books and free critiques. So stop by today at www.keepmeinsuspense.com They `re considering starting a page to list Christian Suspense and Mystery authors by subgenre. Is this a great idea or what? A special thank you to this group of talented writers. I can see this will be one of my favorite sites. I've already signed up to receive their information.
Caroline Friday has made it to the Semifinals of the American Screenwriting Competition, which is the top 2% of about 2400 scripts submitted. That's the TOP 2%. That's great Caroline. Proud of you.
Louise M. Gouge has signed a three-book contract with White Stone Books. The first book in this post-Civil War series, Then Came Faith, will be released September 10th under the Emerald Pointe Books imprint.
The Civil War is over: Juliana Harris wants to help the South heal and repent of its past. . .Andre Beauchamp swears never to forgive the North for what they did to his family. Juliana has traveled to this war-ravaged city to minister to the people devastated by the conflict—having been a strict abolitionist who was part of the Underground Railroad—she seeks to help the South understand the transgression of slavery.
Andre and Juliana's attraction is immediate and obvious, but they quickly discover how diverse two people can be in their values and beliefs. Even in the midst of their warring points of view, Andre cannot help but notice Juliana's courage and resilience—and remarkable impact—in the face of fierce opposition. Through the commitment of three former slaves, he discovers secrets from his family's past that force him to face head on his own his own views of the intrinsic worth and dignity of all people.
That sounds great, Louise. I've loved the Civil War period ever since I first saw Gone With the Wind. I fell in love with Clark Gable, and never got over it. I'll put this one on my list.
Gail Martin's book In His Eyes, was a Top Pick in the Romantic Times with their top 4 1.2 star rating. It's the first book in the Michigan island Series. She traveled to Michigan's Upper peninsula to do research for the fourth Michigan Island book and had an interesting time. Gail coupled her trip with three book signings, (Mackinac Island, Mackinaw City, and St. Ignace) for the Barbour release of Mackinac Island anthology. Photographs of Gail's trip are on her blog site at www.gailmartin.blogspot.com.
Also, Finding Christmas, her romantic suspense Steeple Hill single title has been a finalist in four national contests and Loving Feelings finaled in one. Doing good, Gail, keep it up.
Staci Stallings newest release Lucky, will be out in August. Anita Aurit, an ACFW member, has read it and says "In Lucky Stallings presents the blossoming faith of her protagonists in a manner that allows us to make the journey with them. There are no fast conversions. Lucky presents an honest exploration of truth and lies, actions and consequences, hopes and despair and the role that God plays in it all. Lucky is a book for anyone that has looked at their lives and asked the question, "How did I get here?"
Lucky is available at www.lulu.com/spirit-light, and on Amazon.com
Lena Nelson Dooley's August schedule for interviews is as follows:
August 6, Andrea Boeshaar
August 13, Nancy Lavo
August 20, Gail Sattler
August 27, J.N. Graham (Jesse)
Great lineup, Lena. One we won't want to miss. Lena also gives a free book every month. Richard Mabry won a copy of Everything's Coming Up Josey. So go on over, sign up, and maybe you'll win a book as well as read an interview by one of your favorite authors. Check it out at http://www.lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com
Margaret Daley's A Mother for Cindy, is a finalist in the inspirational romance category of the Texas Gold Contest. That's great Margaret. Proud of you.
Kristy Dykes has a new blog, "Christian Love Stories". http://christianlovestories.blogspot.com "When I found the one I love, I held him and would not let him go." (Song of Solomon 3:4)
Kristy says, "I write Christian love stories. . .from yesteryear to present day. . .perhaps because I'm living a true love story every day. . .with my hero husband." Stop by and check it out. The world could always use a little more love, and writers like Kristy are working hard to provide it.
Kristy is a Christian Fiction author (9 titles), speaker, and a former newspaper columnist, and is a freelance writer (600) articles. With a record like that, she has to be good.
Nancy Sonneman has a new blog at www.tipsgalore.blog.com. Nancy features writing tips and I'm planning to follow the one on file folders. Some good suggestions here.
Please feel free to contribute your tips. Any length, about anything writing related is welcome, even if you don't think it could help someone else. It might just be the little "halo nudge" (from Jesus) that we all need.
Stop by and check out Nancy's blog, and leave a tip of your own. We forget sometimes that the things we do so automatically might be something another writer has never considered. And thanks to Nancy for giving us a place to post those tips.
Darlene Franklin's mystery, Gunfight at Grace Gulch, is scheduled for publication by Barbour for the new Heartsong Presents mystery line, in August, 2007.
Cici Wilde, owner of Cici's Vintage Clothing in Grace Gulch, Oklahoma, is delighted when the centennial of Oklahoma statehood brings additional business to her store. Events take a tragic turn when an actor dies in the reenactment of the town's most famous gunfight. Cici's sister Dina, and her childhood friend, Cordell Grace, are among the suspects. Will Cici and Audie Howe, director of the town theater, solve the mystery in time to prevent further tragedy?
Congratulations, Darlene. It sounds good. I'll be looking for this one.
I checked into Christian Women Online Magazine and loved it. In case you don't know about it, Christian Women Online Magazine unites women of faith, regardless of their differing ages, their roles as women, or the signs that mark their church doors. The ezine offers inspirational articles on topics such as adoption, depression, homemaking, and home schooling, as well as humorous stories to warm the soul. They feature up-to-date reviews on some of the most popular books in the Christian marketplace, as well as presenting their own full length novel online written by novelist, Catherine West, and published bi-monthly. CWO offers a community with over 300 blogring members and its own team blog, so that fellowship with other Christian women online is only a click away. The articles are great too. I plan to visit it often. You'll find it at http://www.christianwomenonline.net. http://paidinfull.blogspot.com
Janice LaQuiere took 1st place in the inspirational category of the 10th Dixie First Chapter contest with her entry Truckload of Love. In this romantic novel, beauty meets beast when an over-the-hill invalid places an ad seeking "a family for Grandpa" and gets a drop-dead gorgeous woman raising her brother's five children. I'll bet Grandpa was surprised. Sounds like a fun story. Congratulations Janice, way to go.
Sherri Lewis has a contract for her new book, and the release date is set for July, 2007. Congratulations, Sherri. Proud of you, and looking forward to reading it.
Six ACFW members and historical fiction authors have teamed up to bring you, an historical fiction blog FAVORITE PASTIMES, with an aim to explore the wondrous world of the past and reveal the excitement that can be found in telling the stories to be enjoyed today. Each contributor will be taking one week at a time to share a variety of topics, interviews, thoughts, book and movie reviews, and other special features. They'll also have contests and giveaways and market news. And they hope to hear from you on whatever you have to share.
The sky's the limit. Anything and everything related to historical fiction from all aspects and sides. Join them as they share their insights on writing, reading, viewing, and researching historical fiction. Drop by and see them. They look forward to hearing from you.
The six writers who have come up with this great idea are Tiffany Amber Miller, Cindy Thomson, Jill Eileen Nelson, J.M. Hochstetler, Tricia Goyer, and Beth Goddard. There are a lot of writers who write historical, including Biblical fiction. Besides, the concepts of research, characterization, and plotting are the same no matter which genre in which you write. They will discuss all of this and more. This blog will be a wonderful place to learn and share. You can check it out at http://favoritepastimes.blogspot.com
AT HOME WITH CHRISTIAN FICTION website is doing something new and fun. They are linking to blogs from their favorite authors and publishers and have a daily blog feature. They also have favorite scriptures from the authors and comments on why those Bible verses mean so much to them. They'd love to have everyone stop by. Check out the blog of the day and enjoy the scripture and comments. www.athomewithchristianfiction.com
If you're not familiar with At Home With Christian Fiction, it debuted in January 2005, and its mission is dedicated toward helping to advance the Christian fiction market. Catherine Terry, Editor, says "We are thankful for the wonderful authors who demonstrate the Christian life in story form. We're pleased to provide book reviews, interviews, recent release announcements, and several other avenues toward sharing the good news about this rapidly developing market."
Staff: Catherine Terry, Editor/Publisher/Book Reviewer/ Web Designer; Mary Connealy, Book Reviewer; Dell Smith Klein, Book Reviewer. In addition to these members they also accept guest reviewers.
Standing on the ground that we are to "Go forth and make disciples of all the nations," (Matthew28:19) At Home With Christian Fiction is pleased to be able to outreach with U.S. military families by donating books to individuals, chapels, hospitals, and libraries. Authors may be pleased in knowing that their books often go around the world. Now that is good news. I'm a strong supporter of our men and women in the military and I'm in favor of anything we can do for them.
For inquiries, please e-mail Catherine Terry at ahwcf200@aol.com
Mary Connealy says her blog is a work in progress. It's got great pictures of her daughter's wedding and blurbs about the three books she has contracted for release in 2007, and a few other things. But every teensy thing on it is the product of blood, sweat, and tears. And boy is her keyboard a mess. When it gets easier, there will be more to come. Mary's blog is pure de fun, as we say in my neck of the woods, and her books sound great. You can check it out at www.mcconnealy.blogspon.com. Her web site is www.maryconnealy.com
Visit Cynthia M. Hickey's blog. Where books are the subject; whether they be her own or someone else's. A place to read inspiring quotes on books and reading, or just the thoughts inside her head. She also has some great links. Check it out at www.cynthiahickey.blogspot.com, www.cynthiahickey.com
Brenda Minton received a great review for her debut novel, The Strongest Cord. Published by Five Star Publishing. The review will be published in the September issue of ROMANCE REVIEWS TODAY, and you can find it at www.romevtoday.com. The reviewer was Robin Lee, and she had a lot of good things to say about this book. I agree with all of them. I've read the book and it is a winner. The Strongest Cord will be featured in the book review section of my September newsletter. Watch for it.
Another new group is SPECULATIVE FAITH dedicated to Christian Science Fiction and Fantasy writers. I am amazed at the options available to us because of the dedicated efforts of people who see a need and set to work to fill it. Speculative Faith, http://specfaith.ritersbloc.com, has a Christian SFF Blog Tour that is now three months old. If you would stop by any of the participant's sites, it would be a huge help to put out the word about this group. Shannon McNear, http://shenandoahdawn.blogspot.com, is heading up the July tour, and you can see the links to other participants at her site.
If you write Christian Science Fiction and Fantasy, perhaps you are not aware of the help you can find at this site. They also need your input. Speculative Faith is a blog put together by a group of ACFW members who write speculative fiction (various forms of science fiction and/or fantasy) They are doing their best to raise the profile of the genre, both inside and outside explicitly Christian fiction. Their goal is to whet the thirst of readers who may not select a SFF book first, but just like so many of you, once they discover the adventure and the depth, such as with time-travel stories, they will demand more.
Shannon McNear says, "We are an idealistic, motivated group:
~~We believe that there is a diverse and sizable audience hungry for Christian speculative literature.
~~We want to find you.
~~We want you to find us.
~~We want to mobilize a reading and writing community that will impact the future editorial acquisitional decisions of CBA publishing houses. Right now, they are not favorably inclined toward speculative fiction.
~~We want better and more varied and just plain MORE novels from CBA publishing houses in our genre.
~~We intend to promote the good speculative literature out there, works that showcase talent as well as spiritual truth.
So here's a tension…how do we promote Christian Science Fiction and Fantasy properly, while criticizing books of the past that have endured, but that are of a lesser quality than what we would hope, but may still draw in younger readers to the genre?"
Rebecca Miller, rluellam@earthlink, says, "The Christian Science Fiction and Fantasy Blog Tour, hosted in August by Beth Goddard (an ACFW Genesis finalist) http://bethgoddard.blogspot.com, will feature Kathy Tyers, author of the Firebird trilogy. On the 21, 22, and 23, participants will post reviews, interviews, and discussions about Tyers, her web site, and her work. Join in the fun and learn more about this growing Christian SFF genre.
This from one of the opening posts on Speculative Fiction, written by Mirta Ana Schultz (A Genesis finalist on our category this year) This team blog, Speculative Faith, will offer you our individual perspectives—and we don't always agree—on any matter that resides in that spacious spot where our faith and our preferred genre blend.
This is a great idea, and a vote of thanks to the talented writers who formed this group. They are doing a great service to the genre. Stop by http://specfaith.ritersbloc.com and check it out. I can guarantee you'll be amazed at what they have to offer. . You can reach Rebecca Miller at rluellam@earthlink, or Shannon McNear at shenandoahdawn@comcast.net. They will be happy to answer all of your questions.
Louise Gouge's Hannah Rose won first place Inspirational Reader's Choice Contest for Long Historical. The riveting story of Ahab's Bride continues! Captain Ahab is dead, the victim of his own pride. His widow, Hannah, and their son must make a new life outside of the familiar whaling community of Nantucket. Planning a trip to Europe, they first visit friends in Boston. There, Hannah meets the kind and warm Captain Lazarus, and the dashing Captain Longwood. But Hannah also has another encounter that shakes the very foundation of all she believes—slavery. Before she can proceed to Europe, or even consider remarrying, Hannah must face her own convictions. Does God have a path laid for Hannah's life that goes beyond her own plans and desires? What will she learn about God's forgiveness, and her own past as part of Ahab's legacy?
Louise Gouge creates a unique story that weaves love and courage into Hannah Rose. As the spirited heroine steps forth courageously to build a life with her son, she finds the choices involving her heart are the most difficult of all. Sounds good, Louise, and congratulations.
Susan Page Davis' romantic suspense, Fraiser Island, will be published in March 2007, by Harvest House Publishers. Navy Ensign Rachel Whitney lands her dream assignment at a remote island outpost, but soon finds herself at loggerheads with her superior officer, Lt. George Hudson. As a new believer, Rachel struggles to grow in her faith, while George is forced to confront his own spiritual condition. When the enemy attacks Fraiser, they must use their meager resources to fight back, for their lives and the safety of America.
Sounds great, Susan. I'll be looking for it.
If you're looking for someone to help you with publicity or any of the many things writer's have to deal with, Eileen Key, Janice Thompson, and Heather Tipton, at Out There Author Services can help you. These three know the writing business and they lists a host of services to help their fellow writers.
When asked about what they had to offer, Eileen had this to say. "Out There Author Services has a commitment to helping writers. If you're new to the writing business and need help developing or honing your skills, we have classes, mentoring services, and editing/critique options for you. We also have a host of professional writers on board to handle your ghost-writing project. If you're looking for a way to promote yourself or your books, we can assist you with press releases, promotional needs and speaking engagements. If you're well along your way and need a virtual assistant to help you with fan mail, calendar events, or web logs, we would love to offer our services so you can be freed up to do what you were called to do….write!"
They can also work up a press kit for you or help you set up a blog. I can assure you all three of these women are knowledgeable, friendly, and efficient. You can check them out at www.outreachauthorservices.com.
Eileen Key has a new contract from Barbour for her Spyglass Mystery, How Much Is That Doggie? I love the title, because it reminds me of the old Rosemary Clooney song, about that doggie in the window. I still know the words. How Much Is That Doggie? is the first release in Eileen's Feather Duster Series and will be available August 4, 2007.
Will Belle Blevins discover who's stealing pedigreed pooches, or will she stay locked in a Tennessee basement?
Talk about whetting my interest. Now I have to wait for one year to find out if Belle gets out of that basement in time to save the puppies. Sounds good Eileen. Proud of you.
Robert Elmer just signed a three-book contract with Zonderkidz for a fantasy series for 8 to 12 year olds. This is Robert's second trilogy with the publisher. His first, called The Wall, is an epic tale that extends across generations and unfolds against the backdrop of a dangerous Cold War Berlin. Robert is a full-time writer, living in Idaho. Great Robert. Way to go.
And if you like to write Christian fantasy, check out SPECULATIVE FICTION http://specfaith.ritersbloc.com,
the new blog for sci-fi and fantasy
writers.
Robert tells me that The Wall, his three-book generational series written for readers eight to thirteen years old, and set in Cold War Berlin, is now on the streets. His publisher, Zonderkidz, decided to release the entire series at one time, and it is now available. Book one, Candy Bombers, is written at the time of the Berlin Airlift in 1948, when the Russians blockaded the city and the Allies brought in supplies by air. Beetle Bunker, book two is set thirteen years later, 1961,when the Berlin Wall went up. Smugglers Treasure, book three, is set in 1989 when the Wall finally came down.
They sound great, Robert. Just the thing to teach our younger generation about this very important time in our history.
Randy Mortenson's new book Landon Snow and the Island of Arcanum, will have an October release: WARNING: ADVENTURES IN LIBRARIES ARE CLOSER THAN THEY APPEAR
At least that's what Landon discovers when a few drips from a library ceiling turn into a powerful waterfall. As the waters rise, so do the perils in this latest adventure of Landon Snow, as he and his sisters—Holly and Bridget—are transported out of the library and into another world.
In this high-seas voyage, the Snow children join a quest to find the Island of Arcanum, where the animals of Wonderwood are imprisoned and the evil shadows of Malus Quidam lurk. With the help of some old friends—a horse named Melech, an odd fellow named Hardy, a girl named Ditty, and the poet/prophet Vates—Landon seeks to unlock the island's dark secrets and escape with the animals intact. But first he must navigate his way through uncharted waters and battle villainous Arcans. Can Landon and his friends rescue the animals from deep within the island's stronghold? Are the winds in Landon's favor, or will this prove to be his final voyage?
The Midnight Adventures Begin Anew for Landon Snow in Book 3: Landon Snow and the Island of Arcanum hardcover Barbour Publishing October 2006
Sounds good Randy. I'm putting this one on my list.
WHACKY NEWS OF THE MONTH.
(News too weird to make up)
You know how tight airport security is these days? And with good reason. It's not safe out there. Well. . . a man was caught with six eggs from endangered species in his underwear as he was preparing to fly from Sydney, Australia to Bangkok, Thailand. Now you think about that for a minute. He had eggs in his underwear. Eggs are fragile. He was boarding a plane where he would have to sit down. No, on second thought, that's not anything I really want to think about. The question is, what was he thinking?
He explained that he didn't want the eggs for himself. He was stealing them because he wanted to surprise his girlfriend. Well yes, I'm guessing that would have been quite a surprise. Over the years there have been several items I felt I couldn't live without, but eggs weren't on the list. I mean, the local grocery store keeps them in stock and they're not all that expensive. Nothing that could compare to a really nice piece of jewelry as a romantic token.
I'm curious as to what he planned to do with them? Eggs won't hatch unless mother bird sits on them and until they hatch, they're just eggs. I can't think his girl friend would have been thrilled at the suggestion she fill in as surrogate mother.
It seems was he was about to board the plane a customs officer frisked him and noticed a suspicious bulge around his middle. A strip search revealed the six eggs stashed in a stocking and hidden in his underwear. They hauled him before the judge who fined him $20,000. So let this be a warning to all women everywhere. When the man in your life goes on a trip and there is the slightest possibility he may bring you back a souvenir, provide the guy with a list. Don't leave the choice up to him, particularly if you do his laundry. You might get to wash his underwear.
WRITING TIP OF THE MONTH
Developing Realistic Characters I
Developing characters that seem real is one of the most important skills in the writer's toolbox. Take a look at your favorite books. Why do they appeal to you? Chances are it is because you identify with the characters, not because they are beautiful, handsome, or perfect, but because they are human. Just like you and the people you know.
Most of us have something we feel passionately about, something so important on a personal level that we are willing to sacrifice for it. It may be a strong sense of family responsibility, a driving need to be respected and accepted, or a determination to right a wrong. We may not even realize how much it means to us, until it is threatened. The things we care about will determine the way we live, the beliefs we hold, the way we treat other others.
Your characters should be the same. Only the characters who care about something are worth bothering about. Even your villain should have something he cares about, which influences the way he behaves. The thing a character cares about is the core of his being. And the thing you choose for her to care about must be something your reader can recognize as a realistic passion. Your reader needs to be able to identify with the character and understand why he feels the way he does.
Also, your main characters must be realistic individuals who appeal to your readers. They should have definite personality traits, including flaws, but those flaws must be something the reader will accept. A reader will not accept a hero who is also a serial killer. That's extreme, but it makes the point. The flows most acceptable to us as readers, will be the flaws we recognize in ourselves and in our family or friends. Not glaring, horrible, disgusting flaws, but the ordinary garden variety things we see every day in the people around us.
After you have given your hero something to care about, something he lives by, chosen his personality traits, and decided on his flaws, then drop him headfirst into a situation that threatens the thing he cares about the most. That will get your readers attention and keep her turning those pages. Not because your character is so perfect and so holy she outshines Jesus, but because she is a flawed, interesting personality who cares passionately about something, and is willing to fight for it.
Next month: Characters II
NEED TO READ BOOKS OF THE MONTH
If your book is reviewed in my newsletter you have permission to use
the review any way you please. You may reprint it, publish it, post
it on your website, etc. You also have permission to use my name.
Never Say Never by Lena Nelson Dooley
When Charlotte Halloran's husband, Phillip, was killed by a drunk driver, she knew she'd never love again. Charlotte takes her teenage daughter Chelle on a cruise, to get away form the memories of the first anniversary of Phillip's death. The ship is luxurious, the food delicious, and the captain is handsome.
Gareth Von den Hout, ship captain, lost his wife to cancer. He's determined to never be hurt again, and then he meets Charlotte Halloran and all his good intentions fly out to sea. There are many reasons for Charlotte and Gareth not to pursue a relationship. The most important obstacle and the most formidable, is Chelle, who is still working through the grief of losing her father. Chelle sees Charlotte's interest in Gareth as betrayal of Phillip. Can a shipboard romance blossom into true love in spite of all the reasons why it shouldn't? Lena has delivered such a good sense of place, that after reading this book I felt as if I had been on a cruise. I enjoyed it very much and Never Say Never is a good selection for your Need to Read List.
In His Eyes by Gail Gaymer Martin
The last thing Ellene Bordini wants is a meeting with Connor Faraday. She had been engaged to Connor once, but he walked away and she's never forgotten or forgiven. Although Ellene has dated through the years, she never fell in love again. Now twenty-nine, she is a successful businesswoman in her father's company. When Connor wants to remodel his cottage on Harsens Island, he calls the Bordini's to draw up the plans. Ellene didn't want to go to Harsens Island, didn't want to see Connor, but as her father reminded her, business is business. So she'd go, look over the job, get it done, and get out. Unfortunately she hadn't counted on ice jamming the ferry, trapping her on Harsens Island with Connor and Caitlin, his six-year old daughter. His wife is dead and he's trying to raise the little girl by himself. And that's another thing Ellene didn't want, Connor's child to deal with. Caitlin clings to Ellene, following her everywhere she goes. What will Caitlin do when Ellene leaves, as she must.
Ellene and Connor are Christians, struggling with their faith. Can two people trapped by the past ever find forgiveness and love? Gail Gaymer Martain's In His Eyes is a heartwarming story. I'm delighted to recommend it for your Need to Read List.
Deliver Us From Evelyn by Chris Well
Deliver Us From Evelyn is full of quirky characters and I think my favorite was the Right Fair Reverend Missionary Bob Mullins, or is that The Right Fair Doctor Reverend Damascus Rhodes, or could it be Judge Gideon Judge. The guy has a ton of aliases, but whatever you call him, he's a slick jerk running a con. But he's so inept you can't help feeling sorry for him.
Dectective Charlie Pasch, the walking database with a love for comic books is back from Forgiving Solomon Long, the first book in this series, along with his partner Detective Tom Griggs. And they're right smack in the middle of a mob takeover. They have a top assignment, FIND WARREN BLAKE
Since his father, Big Ed Drake, mob boss, was sent to prison, the Drake organization is in shambles, and Eddie Jr. is having a hard time holding it together. Eddie also is having a hard time paying the debt he owes to Evil Duke Cumbee. And then there's Evelyn Blake, her royal highness, or as her employees call her, Queen Evel. (It's worth the price of the book just to read the names) The queen is running the business since Warren Blake, her husband, went missing, which brings us to the burning question: WHERE IS BLAKE?
Deliver Us From Evelyn is witty, suspenseful, and a fast paced page-turner, which I heartily recommend for your Need to Read List.
The Redemption by M.L. Tyndall
Lady Charlisse Bristol, is on a merchant ship sailing from London to the Caribbean in search of the father she has never met. The ship is struck by a terrible storm and goes down. Only Charlisse survives, stranded on a tiny island with very little food and no hope of rescue. Then The Redemption, a pirate ship, under the command of Captain Edmund Merrick, stops by the island. Captain Merrick takes Charlisse with them, but her situation is no less desperate. The only woman on a ship filled with morally loose pirates, she must depend on the protection of Edmund Merrick, a man she believes is no better than the others.
Merrick is a new Christian, and he has a hard time resisting his old ways and desires, and having lovely Charlisse on board doesn't help any. Charlisse knows all about religion. Her uncle is a respected bishop, but in private he is a sadistic brute. If that's what Christianity is all about, she wants no part of it. MaryLu Tyndall's The Redemption, is a fascinating story, that transports the reader to the dangerous world of piracy on the high seas. If you like historical fiction, this is a must for your Need to Read list.
Abiding Darkness by John Aubrey Anderson
This is spiritual warfare at its best.
Missy Parker grew up tough. She had to be if she wanted to keep up with Bobby, her older brother, and Junior, her best friend. That toughness served her well when a car stopped on a gravel road by Cat Lake Bridge, on Parker land. A man and three boys got out of the car, the woman stayed inside. The way the man looked at his little sister disturbed Bobby. The kids had been playing ball and he hung on to the bat, thinking it might come in handy.
When one of the boys pushed Missy down, Junior popped the kid on the nose, making it bleed. In the summer of '45, black boys didn't hit white boys, no matter how much they have it coming. The situation started to get ugly, but a man and three boys were no match for Bobby Parker with his baseball bat. The intruders got in their car and left, vowing to return.
In the near distance, four well-armed witnesses, tall, bright, and invisible watched. One of the group said, "It begins." And so it did. God had a purpose for Missy Parker, and Satan was determined to stop her. Abiding Darkness has it all; angels, demons, but most of all, it has characters so real you'll think you know them on a personal level.
Most books about spiritual warfare rely heavily on the supernatural. Abiding Darkness has plenty of that, but the focus is on the people struggling against Satan's attacks while trying to hold onto their faith. I enjoyed this book very much, and I want to be like Missy Parker when I grow up. John Aubrey Anderson's Abiding Darkness is book one in the Black or White Chronicles and definitely deserves a place on your Need to Read List
Tangled Memories by Marta Perry
All Carrie Grant wants is to find out about the father she never met. She located his family, only to find they didn't want her. Her grandfather, Baxter Manning, Savannah aristocrat, refuses to believe she is his granddaughter, yet he invites her to come to his home to meet the family.
Lucas Santee, who runs the Manning family business, meets Corrie when she arrives. He makes it clear he thinks she is running a scam. Nothing she can say will convince Lucas or Corrie's southern kin that she isn't after Baxter's money. Then Corrie begins to have accidents, most of them with the potential to be deadly. No one wants her there, but someone wants her gone permanently. Can Corrie and Lucas solve the mystery of what happened to her parents? Or will Corrie disappear too?
Tangled Memories is a suspenseful, fast paced story about two people with separate agendas, thrown together in a fight against evil. Marta Perry is a skillful writer who pulls the reader into the story and never lets her go. I recommend this one for your Need to Read List.
The Reluctant Burglar, by Jill Nelson
Desiree Jacobs is an expert at changing the way she looks. A wig, change of clothing, different way of walking and she is a 30'ish blond representative of the National Antiquities Society. A few minutes later, and some quick alterations in the way she looks, and she is older, gray, stooped and frail. Desiree works for her father in their family business, HJ Security Company.
Special agent, Tony Lucano, from the Organized Crime Division of the Boston FBI field office, believes Desiree's father is a sophisticated art thief. Desiree knows her father is the most honest man alive and despises Tony Lucano for his persecution of an innocent man. Then Tony comes to her house, bringing news that her father, who is on a trip overseas, was murdered in Rome. When her house is burglarized it becomes obvious that the thief is searching for something her father had. Desiree sets out to clear his name and prove her innocence. Unfortunately, the only person she can rely on is Tony Lucano.
The Reluctant Burglar is full of suspense and action, with a spunky heroine you'll love. Jill Nelson has two more books scheduled for release The Reluctant Runaway, and The Reluctant Smuggler, published by Multnomah.
I'm looking forward to reading them. The Reluctant Burglar will be a great addition to your Need to Read List.
Legend of the Emerald Rose by Linda Wichman
I have always enjoyed tales of King Arthur and his knights of the roundtable, and Linda Wichman brings them to life in Legend of the Emerald Rose. Shadoe un Hollo Tors (Shad'ow un Hal'low Tore), son of Merlin, was twelve years old when King Arthur died. Shadoe was supposed to guard the king's back in battle, but in the press and fury, he lost sight of Arthur. When he found his king, Arthur Pendragon lay on his back, clutching his famed sword, Excalibur.
Merlin, Shadoe's father was rumored to be dead. Although Merlin had once followed the dark ways of the Enchanter, he had turned his life over to Jesu, Savior of the world. Shadoe was a believer of the one true God, also, but when Mordred le Fey, pretender to the throne killed Arthur and then brutally murdered Queen Guenvere, Shadoe believed God had deserted them.
God has a mission for Shadoe, but he is an unwilling servant. Nevertheless, he promises God he will accept the pendant of the Emerald Rose of Avalon. Only the High Steward can appoint King Arthur's successor. It is rumored that there is a secret child of Arthur and it is Shadoe's job to find that descendent and make him king. Unfortunately, a frustrating, irritating, brat of a female, named Emerald Rose Rayn keeps getting in his way. God has a plan for Rayn (Rain) also, but she is just as unwilling as Shadoe to submit to his will.
Linda Wichman does a great job of recreating the fascinating world of the Isle of Might and the hardy souls who lived there. Legend of the Emerald Rose is chock full of love, romance, bravery, and epic struggles between the forces of good and evil. It is also well salted with biblical truths, revealed through the lives of her characters. I am happy to recommend Legend of the Emerald Rose for your Need to Read List.
Arms of Deliverance by Tricia Goyer
Arms of Deliverance is set in Nazi Germany during World War II. The intriguing cast of characters come alive on the page, until you, the reader, shares their thoughts, their fears, and their lives. There is Lee O'Donnally, rich, spoiled, and stubborn, with connections she can use to get what she wants. Lee wants to be an overseas reporter, writing about the war from the front lines. What she sees and experiences changes her forever.
Mary Kelly doesn't have Lee's connections. She grew up poor, raised by a single mother, and longing for approval and acceptance from her father. Mary's goal is to report from the war zone. She hitches a ride on a B-17 during a bombing raid. Both women are brave and dedicated to showing the people back home what the war is really like.
Their stories mirror the lives of the real-life women reporters who risked their lives in order to write their reports from the combat zone. Women like Margaret Bourke White, Lee Miller, and Janet Flanner. Tricia Goyer does a great joy of showing what it was like for them on the front lines of the great war.
Then there's Katrin, a Czech Jew, who successfully passes herself off as an Aryan. Katrin's lover, Hendrick Schwartz, is an officer in Hitler's army, entrusted with killing Jews, in order to preserve a pure Aryan bloodlines.
Eddie Anderson, member of a B-17 crew is stationed in Bassingbourn, England. The men of the 91st bomber group, fly bombing runs on a daily basis. The day Eddie arrives at his new station, his barracks is a mess because the cleaning crews hadn't removed the personal effects of the men who didn't make it back from a raid the day before. A dozen planes were lost.
Tricia Goyer does an incredible amount of research, talking to actual veterans who were there and know what it was like. Whether the setting is inside a B-17, on a beach, landing under hostile fire, or in a concentration camp, she places the reader there.
This is a story about people you'll know and love, caught up in a war like nothing seen before or since. It is an accurate portrayal of the evil Hitler unleashed on the world and the men and women who risked their lives daily, fighting to defeat the Nazi juggernaut that threatened to destroy the free world. If you liked Dawn of a Thousand Nights, you'll love Arms of Deliverance. This one is a must for your Need to Read List.
QUOTE OF THE MONTH
If you worry, why pray? If you pray, why worry?
RECIPE OF THE MONTH
LEMON BARS
Crust:
1/c cup butter, softened
1 1/3 cup flour
¼ cup sugar
Mix until well blended. Pat into an ungreased 8" square pan.
Bake 350 degrees for 10-15 minutes.
Filling:
2 eggs,
¾ cup sugar
2 tbsp. flour
¼ tsp. baking powder
3 tbsp. lemon juice
Pour over crust and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until
set. Dust with confectioners' sugar. Cool before cutting into bars.
Barbara
Blue Mountain Editorial Service
www.barbarawarrenbluemountainedit.com
But they that wait upon the
lord shall renew their strength: they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they
shall run, and not be weary: and they shall walk, and not faint.
- Isaiah 40:31 KJV
This site was created by Brainiac Media Web Design Service
Webmaster E-Mail: bmwd@dancingword.net