Sharing the Hope of Christmas Through Music


by Lydia Walker Athey

When you think of the upcoming Christmas season, do you feel hopeful or hopeless?

Christmas is a time where many of us are seeking peace, joy, and hope. The season often
brings up many emotions, whether that’s a lifetime of good memories spent with family, or struggles because of the loss of a loved one.

In the bustle and busy-ness of the season, it’s easy to get wrapped up in the hype and miss the subtle moments to make a difference.

Each Christmas season is an opportunity to use the celebration as a time to give, serve, and
remind each other of what’s truly important. You never know what someone may be walking through, as you pass them in the store or sit behind them in traffic. There are hurting people all around us who need the Hope that is only found in Christ.

There’s a special warmth in singing Christmas carols that has the ability to go into places that
normally may not be open to the gospel, and share the hope that is so desperately needed.
The traditional carols are full of powerful messages, proclaiming that Christ came to save the
world, and that He is the reason for the season.

You may recognize the melodies and know some of the words, but when you take a deeper look, there is so much truth found in the lyrics. Some all time favorite carols include “Silent
Night”, “O Holy Night”, “Away in A Manger”, and “O Come O Come Emmanuel”. They are all very blatant in sharing the story of Jesus, even more so than modern praise and worship
music.

In a season where many feel hopeless, discouraged, and cold, we have the opportunity to share the hope of Christmas through music that speaks to their soul. Wouldn’t it be amazing to
help lead others to a new life in Christ during the season when we celebrate His coming?

I want to encourage you to look for opportunities to share that hope in every day situations, as
you go about your daily routine. Pray that the Lord would bring people into your path, that you
can minister to and share that message of hope.

Let this season be a time of giving the greatest gift!

Bio: “Lydia Walker is a singer/songwriter and worship leader. She’s a wife and young mom, passionate about raising up the next generation to know and love Jesus. She’s recently released an album of “Lullabies” and also has an “Acoustic Christmas Carols” album, available on her website and on iTunes. Her goal is to inspire people with a message of hope.”

Website: www.rusticsongbird.com

Check out Lydia’s Christmas Album Here!

 

 

Inspirational Contemporary Romance Giveaway!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How awesome is this?

The Grand Prize Winner receives 35+ ebooks, including my debut novel, “The Wounded Warrior’s Wife”, and an eReader!

What an incredible giveaway!

Be sure to enter here: https://booksweeps.com/book-giveaway/inspirational-contemporary-romance-june-2018/

Have a WONDERFUL Summer & Happy Reading!

Sweet Surrender : eBook Giveaway & Guest Post By Author Cynthia Roemer

Hello Dear Readers! I’m honored to have my friend and fellow author, Cynthia Roemer as a guest blogger today! She’s also been so gracious to host a GIVEAWAY for her debut novel “Under This Same Sky”! Keep reading and then enter below! AND if you have a moment, hop on over to her site today where I’m offering a giveaway for my latest novel “Up in Smoke” CLICK HERE. It’s a swip-swap giveaway!


Surrendering our lives to God never comes easily. If you’re like me, you can give a situation to the Lord only to take it back again and again in a tug-of-war for control. I suppose that’s why I wrote about the theme of total surrender in my debut novel, Under This Same Sky.

My heroine, Becky Hollister, doesn’t willingly choose to surrender her will to God; instead, adverse circumstances compel her to choose between entrusting her life to Him or turning her back on her faith. It’s touch and go for a while. After enduring great suffering and loss, Becky questions how a loving God can allow such hurtful events to happen.

Under This Same Sky takes readers on a journey alongside Becky as she works through her resentment toward God and seeks to determine what His will for her might be. But just as in real life, it takes the wisdom of God’s word and the love of friends (and in Becky’s case, a godly man) to pull her through.

Becky’s story is a tale of friendship and love, but even more so, it’s a quest for wholeness and deeper understanding of a God who longs to hold the deepest desires of her heart. Fully surrendering to the Lord is something I believe we all struggle to achieve. I hope you’ll be encouraged by Becky’s story and the message of surrender it conveys.

 

  1. Why do you write?

Since my college days, I’ve had the dream of writing novels. I can only explain it as something God placed within me to do. I long to touch the hearts of readers by letting them experience growth and healing in the lives of my characters.

  1. What do you love best about your novel?

It would have to be its message—that of surrendering to God, despite our circumstances. There are so many hurting people who don’t understand why God allows bad things to happen. While my novel doesn’t attempt to answer that question, it does seek to demonstrate that God is able to work through our hardships to draw us closer to Him.

  1. What encouraging word would you like to give to others?

I’d like to encourage others to live their dream for God. Whatever He has placed on your heart to do, work toward it, allowing room for His timing. When we seek God’s blessing in what we do, He will be faithful to walk beside us. He gives us each our own special set of skills and traits. It’s up to us to discover how He can best put them to use.

 

Under This Same Sky Book Blurb:

~ She thought she’d lost everything ~ Instead she found what she needed most. ~

Illinois ~ 1854

Becky Hollister wants nothing more than to live out her days on the prairie, building a life for herself alongside her future husband. But when a tornado rips through her parents’ farm, killing her mother and sister, she must leave the only home she’s ever known and the man she’s begun to love to accompany her injured father to St. Louis.

Catapulted into a world of unknowns, Becky finds solace in corresponding with Matthew Brody, the handsome pastor back home. But when word comes that he is all but engaged to someone else, she must call upon her faith to decipher her future.

 

 

AUTHOR BIO:

Cynthia Roemer is an award-winning inspirational writer with a heart for scattering seeds of hope into the lives of readers. Raised in the cornfields of rural Illinois, Cynthia enjoys spinning tales set in the backdrop of the 1800s prairie. She writes from her family farm in central Illinois where she resides with her husband and their two college-aged sons. Under This Same Sky is her debut novel.

 

 

 

 

Contact Links:

Website:  http://cynthiaroemer.com/

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

Twitter:  https://twitter.com@cynthiaroemer 

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35002701-under-this-same-sky?from_search=true

 

Purchase Link: https://www.amazon.com/Under-This-Same-Cynthia-Roemer-ebook/dp/B06XZNPSRR/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1492640140&sr=8-1&keywords=under+this+same+sky

 

 

 

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Author Interview with Lauren Brandenburg & Book Giveaway!

Hey y’all! Today we’re getting to know fellow author, speaker, and educator, Lauren Brandenburg! 


Lauren will be giving a copy of her latest release “Orlo the Created”. Be sure to enter to win below!

Welcome Lauren!

Lauren is a speaker and advocate for home education, as well as author of the middle-grade series The Books of the Gardener and creative writing curriculum, The Engaged Writer. Her novels are recognized as a “Top Safe Read” and “Top Read Aloud” for young readers in the homeschool community. She is active in ACFW and Masterpiece Ministries. Lauren and her husband, Jamie, live in Nashville, Tennessee with their two children.

Tell us about your latest novel, writing project etc and any personal inspiration behind it.

Oh, how I would love to give you all the details! But as it is currently being shopped, I think it wise to hold off a bit. I will say that it is an adult contemporary and probably my most favorite piece I have ever written. There are glimpses of my own story in the midst of massive financial loss, sprinkled with some larger than life characters, a lovely town, and a flea market . . . and macaroons. Yes, macaroons are very important!

Do you have any current projects you’re working on? Care to share?

Happy to share! I am currently cleaning up my fifth children’s novel—Orlo: The Burdened, outlining the sixth in the series—Orlo: The Chosen, and brainstorming the follow-up to my adult contemporary (it’s my happy place).

What is your favorite scripture and why?

Philippians 4:8 – Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.

When I am afraid or worried, the Father reminds me to think on what is true—it has helped me through many dark moments. Recently, the idea of dwelling on things that are lovely has consumed me in such a fun, calming way. I have found peace in thinking on the lovely, finding the joy in simplicity, and looking beyond that which is not glorifying to our Father. Think lovely thoughts!

Are there things you put off doing because you dread them? (ie I can’t stand to fold socks. Torture!)

Folding! I am 100% guilty of leaving clothes in the dryer and running it multiple times until I finally feel like folding them. I’ve also been known to stuff said clean dry clothes in a laundry basket then three days later-ish have to put them back in the dryer for fluffing and wrinkle releasing. Oh, and the words “Have you checked in the dryer?” have come out of my mouth on multiple occasions as my kiddos search for martial arts uniforms, socks, undies, etc. (The dryer just now buzzed as I am typing this! LOL It’s a first round dry, but since there are wet items in the washer, into the basket the dry clothes will go!)

Are you a veteran or do you have someone in your family that served in the Military? Tell us a little bit about your service or their service; it’s our way of honoring you/them. 
I’ve always told people that I grew up I a military family even though my dad was unable to directly serve. My brother currently serves in the Navy, my grandfather served in the Army during WWII, my uncle is a retired Army Ranger, and my other uncle serves in the National Guard. As a young child my dad contracted hystoplasmosis  (my entire childhood I was forbidden to pick up a feather or play in our attic because of it). The illness left my dad’s lungs so scarred that on an x-ray it appeared that he once had tuberculosis. Because of the scarring, my dad was not permitted to actively serve our country in the armed forces. However, he raised me to honor our leaders, respect our military, and respect our country’s flag—I’d say he served his country well.

If you could switch genres in your writing, in which genre would you choose to write your next novel? 
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I thought that I would always write for children. I had accepted it as my identity and envisioned many book signings chatting with young fans. Not once did I see myself writing for adults, but then . . . But then I shared a wild idea with my agent. She encouraged me to get it on paper and test-drive it before several publishing houses. Along the way, I think I found myself. I had many real conversations with the Father about who I was trying to be and the design he actually had in mind. So a genre switch . . . how about Children’s Speculative to Adult Humorous Duel Timeline! I’ll finish my children’s series, but I have a feeling I will land somewhere else.

Let’s play a game of favorites! Feel free to elaborate.

Favorite Dessert: Chocolate. Oh wait, I should be more specific . . . Chocolate Cake (unless it is winter and then a cozy cup of Mexican Hot Chocolate will do the trick). But if it is my birthday, Red Velvet Cake (It’s really chocolate cake dyed red with a unique cream cheese icing, so it counts as chocolate, right?)

Favorite Restaurant: Banana Leaf Modern Thai in Cincinnati! (BEST CURRY EVER!)

Favorite Branch of the Military (I won’t judge you if say anything other than Army) : Navy (Shout out to my baby brother!)

Favorite Genre of Music:Alternative (Is that still a genre?) My daughter and I are on a Twenty-One Pilots kick right now! Rumors that make it okay to listen to this band: One of them was homeschooled. One was a youth pastor. Their music has Christian overtones.

Favorite Subject in School: English (I have no fun comments on this, just English.)
Connect with Lauren:

Email – Lauren@TBOTG.com

Amazon (Orlo: The Created) – https://goo.gl/j0F25R
 We’ve had such a great time getting to know Lauren! Enter to win a copy of “Orlo the Created” below!

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Just Start: Giveaway & Writing Advice from Guest Blogger, and Author Cyn Taylor

Today we welcome guest blogger and author, Cyn Taylor! She’s got some great writing advice to share, AND she’s giving away a copy of  Book 1 in the Smoky Mountain Mist series, “Blue Mountain Sky”!! Enter to win below!

JUST START
Many folks live by the mantra that life is all about the journey. As a writer, I disagree. The journey to becoming a published author is fraught with perils. Who wants to live like that?
Your book begins with joy and elation; much like bringing a first child into the world. (Okay, maybe that’s an exaggeration — but it’s my analogy, and I’m sticking to it.)
Soon we come to the middle of our tale. Let’s correlate this period of writing with the teen years of the child you birthed earlier. Joy and elation gives way to gnashing of teeth and tearing of hair. This may be why there are so many bald authors.
We make it through the meat of our story. Whew! Now let’s wrap this up. However, finding the perfect ending can be as elusive as that candy bar that keeps sliding just out of reach under the seat of your car. Sure, you’re the one that hid it there due to a complete inability to share. However, you didn’t know at the time how far into the clutches of darkness a car floorboard could go.
Finally, the perfect words fly from your brain, down your arms and to your fingertips as you tap the computer keyboard as fast as the Flash can dart. The beginning is tempting, the middle moves the story along and the ending, well, IMPAC Dublin Award here we come.
Have a nice cup of tea and take a moment to catch your breath, because now the real work begins; finding a publisher that agrees with your assessment of the book. Once that happens (yes, sometimes fairy tales do come true) it’s on to the world of marketing. Let’s leave that experience for another day.
I wrote my first novel more than twenty-five years ago. I rewrote that book ten years ago. Then revised said book a couple of years ago. It wasn’t that I wanted to keep changing the story. I just wanted to be published.
Having first written the book as Romantic Fiction, I submitted it to Harlequin. Their response was along the lines of “We have numerous books at this point. We’ll get back to you.” They didn’t. Hence, the next rewrite.
Inspirational Romance was hitting the market big time. I moved my characters into a Christian setting, added suspense and a bit of humor. I got to know my characters better and felt an attachment to them. I submitted to various Christian publishers. Responses varied from “Not what we’re looking for at this time” to “We would love to help you self-publish.” BLAH!
When I took a job as a photojournalist for a community paper, I began looking at my book through the eyes of a reporter. Hence the next revision. That one was a mistake.
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My characters needed more depth. I tried reading Christian Romantic Fiction and found myself falling asleep. While this was good for my health, it did nothing towards helping me become a better writer.

A friend suggested I read Stephen King’s book On Writing.” I always found his stories terrifying and was never a fan. Now when I’m asked what helped me most in improving my writing I recommend this book. King is entertaining and the master at turning a phrase.
As I worked on redeveloping my first book, I had the idea of making it into a series set in the Great Smoky Mountains, my area. Before I had rewritten book one I was well on my way through books two and three. I had found my niche. I finished book one. Again. I started searching for a publisher. Again.
During this search, I received an assignment to interview a local author. I was impressed with her book so I bought it and saw her publisher listed.
I submitted my first book Blue Mountain Sky”to Mantle Rock Publishing in October of 2015. Editor Kathy Cretsinger liked it enough to send a contract. The book released July 2016. Book two in this series “Red Morning Glory” released January 2017. Book three “Dawn’s Gray Light” should be available later this year or early 2018. The genre is Faith-based Contemporary Romantic Suspense.
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So here we are at the end of this particular story. That of a published author. How do we wrap this up? Let’s not. As a believer, I know that our stories are never ending. We all play a small part in the greater story woven by God.

If you have words stuck in your head, get them out. Put them on paper. Record them. Share them. Open yourself up to change. Don’t be afraid to self-promote. You may write the next great American novel. You’ll never know if you don’t start.
Happy writing!
Cyn Taylor
Weaving fiction, speaking Truth

ABOUT CYN:

Cyn Taylor lives and plays in Knoxville Tennessee in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. She and husband Brent live on his family farm at the peak of Thunder Ridge along with a feral cat and other woodland creatures who come round to visit. They have two adult children and seven grandchildren. 
As a former freelance photo journalist, Cyn has written faith, community and feature articles.  
Cyn gets some of the best inspiration for her books when she accompanies Brent on fly fishing excursions to the Smokies. He fishes. She writes. Life is good.

CONNECT WITH CYN: 
Email:  cyntaylor2016@gmail.com
Web: cyntaylor2016.wix.com/blog
Instagram: Cyn Taylor author

ENTER TO WIN A COPY OF CYN’S BOOK 1: BLUE MOUNTAIN SKY

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Historical Fiction: Researching Your Novel Successfully by Sara R. Turnquist

Hello, this is Sara R. Turnquist. I fight dragons off when they scare my daughter, I mop up milk

messes when my little boy spills his cup, and I dry many, many tears throughout the day. To top it all of, I write Historical Fiction. I know Hannah has a passion for history, so she can relate to my own heartbeat after this genre. Today, I want to delve into some of the pieces that make Historical Fiction unique among other genres.
RESEARCH. Writing may be a bear, but writing historical fiction is a whole different animal. Not that it’s more difficult, just different. All writing requires research. But, as you can imagine, the research for historical fiction is on another level. Not only do you have to dig into the settings, for example, you have to find out what it was like during the time period you are writing in. That can be tricky. Is that information even available? Thanks to the internet, there is more information at your fingertips, but there are many, many rabbit trails awaiting you. And a lot of false information out there. Contrary to popular belief, not everything on the internet is true 🙂. So, you are researching setting, weather/seasons, along with facts and events. But, again, you must be careful what resources you use. Wikipedia is a great place to start, but I wouldn’t hang my hat on that information. Look at their references at the bottom of the page and utilize those sources. They are likely better places to get the ball rolling on your research.
Author Sara R. Turnquist

REMEMBER IT’S STILL ABOUT YOUR STORY. Now that you’ve got your research under your belt, how do you weave it into your story? The historical information should support your story, not the other way around. Your story is the reason people are reading your book. If they wanted to learn about the Ptolemaic Period in Egypt, for example, they would probably seek out a textbook. But they are more interested in your characters and the challenges they are facing, their plight. The twists and turns that you, the author, have waiting for them. So, stay true to your story. Let the research guide you and inspire you, yes, but not to the point where it becomes overbearing in your story. Again, weavethe details into your story. You want to be as historically accurate as you can be, but do not lose sight of that spark, the initial nugget, the gem that started you on this journey – your original idea.

IT’S ABOUT REAL LIFE. The other thing about Historical Fiction that I find is unique (and I might be overstepping here) is that these happenings that you discover along the way are real. These things occurred. Real people suffered and died. For me, it pulls at my heartstrings and can make it challenging to write sometimes. Because I want to respect those who endured such hardships and be responsible with the information. One of my works in progress is about the Trail of Tears, for example. What a struggle it has been to write about the atrocities the Cherokee faced! But their story needs to be told. For so many reasons.
http://www.amazon.com/The-Generals-Wife-Sara-Turnquist-ebook/dp/B01A9FDT9E/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=sasde06-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=DGJQFSEETVP4VISP&creativeASIN=B01A9FDT9E
I truly could go on and on. My novel that just came out, “The General’s Wife” takes place during a

period in history that holds particular fascination for me – the Ptolemaic Period in ancient Egypt. That is the backdrop and the support for the story of a young woman torn from her home and her first love, an arranged marriage, a journey of self-discovery, and this woman’s strength of spirit against those who would despise and resist her very presence among them.


Was there a lot of research? You bet. Was it a dance between information and story? Yes. Were there times it was harder to write? Well, in a sense, yes. Not the same as for the Trail of Tears novel. Capturing the combat aspects of “The General’s Wife” was challenging because I don’t have the military experience that Hannah does 🙂. Yet, as any other writer, I strove to hone my craft through the process. That is what it’s all about.
                                 ~   ~   ~
The Fun Continues as We Chat a Bit More with Sara!

As a parent, I know it can be hard to find and make that time to write. So how do you do it? Do you have a favorite time of the day to write? 
Sara:  I schedule my writing time around my kiddos. When they are in “quiet time” (thank you, Jesus!) or when they’re at preschool/school.
Also as a parent…well, sometimes the messes to clean up and organize are endless! Are there things you put off doing because you dread them? (ie I can’t stand to fold socks. Supreme Torture!) 
Sara:Ugh! The dishes!
As a fellow writer, I think we can both agree that storylines of different genres kind of float around in our heads. If were to switch writing genres, which one would you choose to write your next novel? 
Sara: Maybe Science Fiction?
Before we go, let’s play a game of Sara’s Favorites!

Favorite Dessert: pie
Favorite Restaurant: Liberty Park Grille
Favorite Branch of the Military (I won’t judge you if say anything other than Army, lol ) : Marines
Favorite Genre of Music: Christian
Favorite Subject in School: Drama
Sara, thanks for being a guest with us today and for providing EXCELLENT information on researching material that can be applied to many genres. THANK YOU! 🙂 
Readers, enter to win an e-copy of Sara’s latest novel, 
“The General’s Wife” below:  

CONNECT WITH SARA:

http://saraturnquist.com/

Twitter:  @sarat1701

New Release Novel Spotlight: The General’s Wife by Sara R. Turnquist


 The General’s Wife
 by Sara R. Turnquist 
New Book Release & Excerpt!!!!!

Ismene, a beautiful, somewhat naïve, young noblewoman, is torn from her childhood home in Greece and her first love. Bound by honor and duty, she marries Pharaoh’s chief military commander, Alistair. Though determined to remain true to the man she left behind, her new husband stirs feelings in her she cannot ignore.

Attempting to accept this brazen new culture, it isn’t long before she discovers that the locals don’t like her. The Alexandrian mob starts making anonymous threats. This faceless group will stop at nothing to achieve its goal of driving out the unwelcome Greeks. In the midst of these heightening attacks, the general must leave for battle. Ismene fears that she is on her own.

Evidence of a spy within her own household arises. It soon becomes apparent that one of these Egyptian rebels wants her dead. The safety of Ismene, and possibly the entire ruling class of Egypt, hangs in the balance.
 
Sara has been a guest on my blog before, and I am delighted to have her return, especially with a new book release to share with us! Sara will join us again next week as well!  

So, Sara! Welcome! Let’s get started! The General’s wife is Historical Fiction?
     Yes, but there is definitely a romance in the book that drives the story.

Care to share the more historically significant events behind your story? I’m all about some history.
      Well, my favorite thing that I uncovered was that Ptolemy II was a great supporter of the Library of Alexandria. In fact, he was on a mission to see the collection within grown to something like 500,000 scrolls. Not only that, it was during his reign that the Septuagint was written. This was the translation of the Hebrew Bible into Greek.

What was your inspiration for The General’s Wife?

    I’m going to share a little secret with you…I hated history as a high school/college student. But I excelled at it. The only thing I ever enjoyed about history was Egyptian history. I devoured everything my teachers/professors shared about ancient Egypt. And I clearly remember the first time I heard about this period (the Ptolemaic period). I was amazed – Greeks ruling Egypt as Pharaohs!?!? And so I happily delved into any and all resources I could come across. Be they museum, book, discovery channel movie…you name it.
I love history, historical fiction, and I know a lot of readers do as well…especially such an interesting time frame. You’ve done your research! Lots going on back then!!! And being an Army wife, you know I LOVE the military element to your story!

Thank you for being with us today and sharing your latest release, and we can’t wait to hear from you again next week! 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sara is originally from Clarksville, TN where she currently resides with her family. She enjoys writing and spending time with her family traveling. Sara is the author of The Lady Bornekova and a member of the ACFW.
CONNECT WITH SARA

PURCHASE 
Readers can pick up a copy of The General’s Wife through any of the following venues:

Enjoy and excerpt from The General’s Wife: 
A frown was etched into Alistair’s features. The sight before him caused his whole body to tense up. It was a sight that had greeted his staff early that morning. Neterka had been the only one brave enough to bring him out there to see it.
“Get it off,” he said, each word enunciated and pushed out of his mouth with force. There were plenty of servants gathered around, but he spoke to no one in particular.
On the inner wall of their great garden two symbols, two words, were splayed across the wall in what could only be blood. The thick, red, viscous liquid had dried as it ran, in stripes reaching to the ground.
A din of whispered conversation among the servants could be heard, but only just. No one wanted to speak out for fear of enraging the general further. Many of the servants were unable to read Greek and had no idea what important message was scarred into their master’s most prized sanctuary. As if the vandalism alone wasn’t enough to evoke a great anger in him, the message itself had pushed him closer to the edge of violence. They had never seen their kind master in such a state.
“What is everybody…” Ismene’s voice interrupted their musings. No one, not even Alistair, had even noticed that she had arrived at the grand estate, least of all made it all the way out to the gardens. Her voice, which started light and happy, trailed off as she noticed the source of everyone’s fixation.
There were many audible gasps as the servants, like Alistair, turned and saw Ismene’s paled face, her mouth moving as if trying to form words, though none came forth.
Alistair rushed over to her, “Ismene, don’t look…it’s…” he said, trying to turn her away, to go back in direction she had just come.
It was only then that he realized—the message—it was for her. Ismene and Alonah came to the gardens each day to check on her tiger lilies. This wall faced the entrance into the gardens closest to her bedchambers, the entrance she came through every day. How did anyone outside of his house and Pharaoh’s know that? His heart sank. There was a leak in one of these houses.
Ismene stood her ground, refusing to let Alistair turn her away. She was shaking.
“Who…what…I don’t understand,” she managed after several seconds. As she glanced up at him, he could see tears in her dark eyes as she repeated the terrible words that were written there. “Go home?”
His heart ached for her.
“Who wants me to go home?” she asked, voice breaking, clearly injured by the implications.
He pulled her into his firm embrace.
She began to cry.
“Shh, shh.” He soothed her, rubbing her shoulders. “It’s all right. It doesn’t mean anything.”
He knew it wasn’t all right. She was in a foreign land, a place she was still having great difficulty adjusting to—a place where she was surrounded by people she didn’t know and who were so different from her. She was still adapting to these new people, a new culture, a new way of doing things, a new government…a new way of life. This must have been her worst fear confirmed. Not only did she not know these people, not only were they foreign in many ways, they did not want her here.
He kissed the top of her head. “Don’t give it any thought, Ismene. Remember last night. Remember how the people cheered for you. They loved you!”
Her crying stilled for a moment.
“This is the work of one person who is dissatisfied with me and is doing this to get back at me. This is not about you. I promise,” he lied. He was quite certain this was at least the truth in part. But he feared that it may be the work of the Alexandrian mob and it may well be aimed at her.
Ismene allowed him to comfort her a little longer, but before he was ready to let go, she started to pull away. With reluctance, he released his hold on her. He then tugged on her arm more firmly until she was facing the direction she had just come, her back to the wall and the horrible message.
“Alonah, please take the Lady Ismene to her bedchambers. I’ll have some refreshments brought for her.” He made sure that there was no room for argument in his voice.
Alonah took Ismene’s arm and led her back inside, away from the small crowd and the offensive markings.
Alistair watched them go. Once they were inside and a safe distance away, he spun back toward the small crowd of servants.
“Get. It. Off.” His voice sharp and his words heated; the words penetrated the air, thick with apprehension, before he stormed off.

 ~~~

Angels Among Us: A Christmas Short Story Collection

http://www.amazon.com/Angels-Among-Inspirational-Celebrate-Christmas-ebook/dp/B018AMMTAI/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1449721049&sr=8-2&keywords=hannah+conway 
Indeed, God’s Angels are among us! 

What a joy it was to join together with Kim and Darlene, two fantastic authors, to bring these fictitious stories to life! Truly an honor to join forces with these talented ladies.

I’ve never written a Christmas themed story, nor ever considered doing so until the offer came…and then my mind went berserk with ideas, scenarios etc.  Of course I wanted it to have a military-ish theme…that’s kinda part of my writer thing. So, after several brainstorming sessions, and hair-pulling (exaggerating a bit), it came together.

My tale, Brighter than a Bronze Star, follows Zander, a warrior angel embarked on a mission far from his comfort zone and in close proximity to the mortal world. Lives are at stake, dark forces swarm around, and Zander must not fail even when God’s orders are unclear, and difficult to obey.

Along the way, you’ll meet Judah, an Army medic questioning his life path, and Claire, a young editor addicted to work to keep past hurts from catching up to her.

Will Zander succeed in his mission, or will the enemy prevail? Will Judah find his path or continue to wonder aimlessly? Will Claire discover the strength she needs to let go and move forward, or remain captive to her hurt?

This Christmas, angels are among us in the most unique way! Enjoy these three short stories for .99 on Amazon, or FREE on Kobo.

Merry Christmas, Dear Reader!

Other books from Hannah Conway:

http://www.hannahrconway.com/p/books.html
http://www.hannahrconway.com/p/books.html

The Lady BorneKova: Meet the Author & Amazon Gift Card Giveway!

http://www.amazon.com/Lady-Bornekova-Sara-R-Turnquist-ebook/dp/B010RNKE7S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1438914073&sr=8-1&keywords=the+lady+bornekovaHello Dear Readers! Today we have Author Sara R. Turnquist here with us! She’s giving away a $10 Amazon Gift Card, my friends! Enter to win below. Share with your friends and family for more entry points! And now, enjoy getting to know Sara! She’s a fabulous person & talented author!

 
Welcome Sara! Please tell us about your latest novel, and any personal inspiration behind it.

The Lady Bornekova is set in the Czech Republic on the cusp of the Hussite Wars. Which were a religious civil war of sorts for the Czech (Bohemian) peoples. My novel follows the journey of one young lady, Karin Bornekova, and what happens to her throughout the events leading up to the start of the Hussite Wars. My personal inspiration? For several summers just after I graduated college, I went over to the Czech Republic on short term mission trips to teach English to college students. I absolutely fell in love with the culture, the country, the people. I was very inspired. Each year, our team leader would find something unique for us to do to kick off our time in the Czech Republic. One year we went to visit this massive chateau outside of Hradec Kralove. Touring the chateau and the grounds was the inspiration for this story.

 
http://saraturnquist.com/That’s so interesting! And it all sounds so beautiful! I know you’ve finished this novel, but do you have any current projects you’re working on? Care to share?

I have just finished working on a novel set during the Trail of Tears. It’s been a really difficult novel to write. The Native Americans suffered so much between the removals and the actual journey along the trail. I am finding it a daunting task to undertake to do justice to the historical events and honor the people who endured these events. But there is a story to tell and I’m determined to tell it.

I admire that determination and appreciate the passion you show for historical events. Writing can be a daunting task at times. Is there a favorite time of the day you like to write to help with the writing process? What about a favorite place?

I write whenever I can. I have three small kids ages 6 and under, so it’s really whenever I can! Sometimes that’s naptime, sometimes that’s at night…whenever. A favorite place? I have a little makeshift desk and comfy chair in the bedroom that I write at most of the time. But I have to share the scene with my husband when it’s finished. I just need the sounding board and instant feedback.

We’re in agreement there. There’s something about reading what you’ve written aloud that helps ALOT. Now, you’re a follower of Christ. Many of our readers are as well. Could you share with us your favorite scripture and why?

For I have not give you a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7; I just love that this verse speaks to where I struggle so much with mommy fears and Sara fears and silly fears…and a little craziness. Honestly. But God doesn’t want me to be fearful, He hasn’t given me a spirit of fearfulness, but a spirit that is powerful and is full of love. And I just love that He even speaks to my other insecurities here and tells me that He gives me a sound mind! Love. It.

I love that too! I’ve dealt with the same thing! Thank you for sharing. Now onward we go! I’m an Army Wife, and all Military Wives have to be flexible. Plans change at the drop of a hat. So, pretend you’re a Military Wife. Ok. Ready?! Your spouse came down on orders to relocate and you’ve got 30 days to move. What are the first three things you do to prepare? GO!

I assume you mean the first three things after I freak out, right? First things first, a list. I always, always, always need my lists. Next I’d prioritize my list (boring, right? But true, so true). Then I’d arrange a family meeting with a full blown typed out Itinerary and “To Do” lists for everyone. Yeah…I’m that person.

LOVE the response! I giggled out loud! 🙂 I FOR REAL carried a clipboard around with me during each move we’ve made! You’ve given great advice! Let’s see what other nuggets of wisdom you have to offer. I’m a Stay-at-Home-Momma of two. It gets a bit crazy around my house especially when I have edits to get to! Could you share some advice for all those parents out there raising their babies?

It’s really okay if you can’t “do it all”. There’s nothing wrong with calling in reinforcements or getting help. It doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong or lacking in you. It means you’re human like the rest of us. That whole 80s/90s “women can do it all/have it all” garbage is just that – garbage. No one can do it all, at least not well. Something will suffer. That’s what we have back-up for. Whether that’s hubby, or family, or friends, or babysitters, or a mother’s helper…use the resources God is giving you.

That’s even BETTER advice! Thank you for sharing with us, Sara! Before we move on to excerpts, and the giveaway info (squeal!!!!), is there anything you’d like to say to your readers? I know they’d love a personal note.

Thank you for your support and encouragement. I appreciate each and every one of you!

Thank you so much for joining us today, Sara, and thank you to all who stopped by! Remember to enter the $10 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway below!!

~ BOOK EXCERPT (Oh I love these little snippets!!) ~
Karin sighed as she leaned on Pavel’s strong shoulder in blissful sleep. They had not been underway for long, but the movement of the carriage had rocked her to sleep in no time. Pavel’s nerves worked double-time, having her so close to him. But he dare not move away, lest he wake her. So, he sat still, enjoying the same kind of closeness he had earlier that evening. The contact, while they danced, had been exciting. This was peaceful but, due to his nervousness, elating all the same. As she rested, he listened to the rhythmic clip-clop of the carriage. Just then, Pavel was startled by a crunching sound, followed by a loud crack! The carriage pitched to the side. He grabbed Karin and held her tight to his body. Karin awoke with a start, eyes wide.
“Don’t move!” he commanded, wrapping his arms tighter around her as the carriage landed hard, jolting them both. It continued to roll, slamming them into the side, threatening to throw them out of the carriage window into an even more dangerous position. Pavel kept his body stiff and held on to Karin. He could barely breathe. It was his body that had slammed into the wall and cushioned Karin’s hit. The car had not stopped moving, and it threatened to roll onto the roof, teetering precariously between the roof and side. How much longer could he hold onto her? How much longer could they endure?
~ ABOUT THE LADY BORNEKOVA ~
http://www.amazon.com/Lady-Bornekova-Sara-R-Turnquist-ebook/dp/B010RNKE7S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1438914073&sr=8-1&keywords=the+lady+bornekova
The red-headed Karin is strong-willed and determined, something she inherited from her father. She tries to keep her true nature a secret to avoid being deemed a traitor by those loyal to the king. Karin and her father butt heads over her duty to her family and the Czech Crown. She is then sequestered to the Royal Viscount’s hunting lodge.
Not aware of everything that is happening, she becomes the target of an individual with murderous intent. Her heart soon becomes entangled though her father intends to wed her to another. The turmoil inside Karin deepens and reflects the turmoil of her homeland, on the brink of the Hussite Wars.

~ ABOUT THE AUTHOR ~

http://saraturnquist.com/Sara resides with her family in Middle TN and though she has enjoyed her career as a Zoo Educator, Sara’s great love of the written word has always drawn her to write. An avid reader, she has been, for many years, what she terms a “closet writer”. Her travels and love of history have served to inspire her to write Historical Fiction. Sara has made several trips overseas to the Czech Republic for short stints in the summer over several years. Her time among the Czech people and the landscapes of the country inspired her and greatly influenced her work on her debut novel, The LadyBornekovaset in the Czech town of Hradec Kralove.

~ STAY CONNECTED WITH SARA ~

Email: sara.turnquist.st@gmail.com

Facebook: Sara R. Turnquist
Twitter: @sarat1701

 
~ GIVEAWAY ~
 

Author Spotlight & Novel Giveaway with Molly Jebber!

Welcome Dear Readers! Today we have Author Molly Jebber with us! She’s giving away a print copy of  her novel, A Change of Heart! Enter to win below! Share with your friends and family for more entry points!

Meet Molly!
Molly Jebber is the author of CHANGE OF HEART, an Amish historical romance. Fascinated by the Amish history, culture, Molly perused her passion to write.  Her love or writing led to a book deal with Kensington Publishing as well as three more titles debuting in 2015/2016. Publisher’s Weekly magazine announced and listed this book number three in their best ten romance review list for 2015. Molly loves God, her family and friends. She likes swimming, reading, golf, and spending time with her husband, Ed, daughter, Misty and friends.


Molly, please tell us about your latest novel, writing project etc and any personal inspiration behind it.
Becca Carrington, my heroine, is thrown into a world unknown to her. She encounters danger and difficult people. I wanted to show how her Amish upbringing and faith in God remain throughout her new life when faced with conflict and drama.

Do you have any current projects you’re working on? Care to share?
“Change of Heart” is the first in a three-book keepsake pocket quilt theme series. The second book is finished and will be released in February, 2016. My Christmas story, “An Unexpected Christmas Blessing” is part of an anthology along with Amy Lillard and Kelly Long. The overall title for this book is “The Christmas Sleigh”. Each of us wrote Amish themed stories. This book will be released October 30, 2015. All of these books are available in stores and online wherever books are sold.

For all the folks out there read, could you share with us your favorite scripture and why?
Philippians 4:19 “I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.” KJV – This verse reminds me with God anything is possible, and that He’s always there for me.

Before we give away more info on Change of Heart, is there anything you’d like to say to your readers? I know they’d love a personal note.
Readers, without you, there would be no reason for me to write. The greatest thrill for me is to hear that you are enjoying my stories. That my stories provide a “little getaway” for you and makes you happy.
Thank you for being with us today, Molly, and thank you Dear Readers for stopping by! Remember to enter to win a copy of Change of Heart below.

Change of Heart by Molly Jebber

Ohio, 1899.  Soft-spoken midwife Becca Yost lived by her Amish faith’s strict rules—until her fiancé jilted her before their entire community. She’s never been away from home, but the bustling Englischer town of Massillon, Ohio, is a welcome unexpected refuge. Especially when she goes to work for Dr. Matt Carrington, who shares her passion for healing those in need. His outgoing spirit and gentle strength show Becca a surprising new world of choices—and irresistible love. But there is one formidable obstacle: Matt’s wealthy mother is determined her son will marry a society woman.

 With her newfound resolve challenged, Becca decides that she and Matt must not be destined for each other after all. She accepts that she will have to forge a life alone—until a wrenching crisis and life-changing revelations teach her that true faith lies in all things, especially impossible second chances. . .

Connect with Molly:

Email:     mollyjebber@yahoo.com
Twitter:      @mollymjebber
 

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