A Tumbled Stone by Marcia Laycock

Andrea Calvert had to run away. She couldn’t stay on the farm, shaming her parents . She couldn’t face being pregnant and alone. She would take care of this on her own.  As she struggles to make life-changing decisions, Andrea discovers a diary and the wrenching story about her family’s dysfunction. But is Andrea’s life at risk at Evie’s Diner?

BIOGRAPHY, MARCIA LEE LAYCOCK – Award-wining Canadian Author/Speaker
Marcia’s writing began in the attic of her parents’ home where she wrote poetry and short stories for her dolls. She says they never complained so she kept it up. Since those humble beginnings, her work has been published in magazines, newspapers and anthologies in both Canada and the U.S. and has been broadcast on radio across Canada. Marcia’s work also appears frequently on the world wide web. She currently writes a weekly devotional column, The Spur, which appears in publications across Canada and goes out by e-mail to more than 4,000 readers each week. Marcia’s fiction and non-fiction has won many prizes, garnering praise from notable Christian writers like Janette Oke, Mark Buchanan, Phil Callaway and Sigmund Brouwer. She has published two devotional books and in 2006 won the Best New Canadian Christian Author Award for her novel, One Smooth Stone, which was published by Castle Quay Books.

A Tumlbed Stone by Marcia Lee Laycock, the long-awaited sequel to One Smooth Stone, is now available on Amazon. Purchase either the hard copy or ebook and then go to Marcia’s blog – www.writer-lee.blogspot.ca to find out how to get your freebies! Marcia was the winner of The Best New Canadian Christian Author Award when One Smooth Stone was released and I know A Tumbled Stone will not disappoint.

Triumph Through Trial by Theresa Franklin

 The stress of living a dream public persona and a nightmare private reality threatens to destroy a family unit, taking each member in its wake. Through a variety of physical and emotional weapons, one by one they will crumble.

Cynthia is beautiful, educated, secretary of the church, and happily married with wonderful children. She is an accomplished hostess and the picture of Christian love. She has the perfect marriage and life—well, not exactly perfect. Her husband, children, church members, and life in general seem to get in the way of her perfect life. Feeling robbed of the life she so richly deserves, Cynthia lashes out and her family pays the price.

Michael is successful, educated, and deacon of the church with wonderful children. Michael and his children have a close relationship. They count on him for advice, guidance, and unconditional love. Serving God is one of Michael’s greatest joys. He and his children delight in helping others. Michael loves every part of his life except for his marriage, which is stressful and unfulfilling to say the least.

Karen is the eldest child and bears the brunt of emotional destruction welded by her mother. Kevin is the only male offspring and uses humor and sarcasm as shields to protect himself. Kathy, the youngest, is sweet and seldom is a victim in the war, but lately watching the slow erosion of her family is taking a physical toll on her.

Michael longs for the marriage that Cynthia believes they have and dreams of providing a safe haven for their children. After twenty-five years of marriage, Michael is losing hope of his dream becoming reality. Can he match the public persona and the private reality? What will it cost to get that kind of marriage and home-life? Is it worth the cost? Who will pay the cost?

Excerpt I
Cynthia wasn’t ready to go to bed, but she didn’t want to face Kevin again, so she stayed in her room.  She was absolutely incensed that her family didn’t appreciate her more.  How dare Kevin say that she was the cause of the discord in the family?  How did she get such a disagreeable and unappreciative family?  They were all just like Michael.  He had never appreciated her.  He had taken her for granted from the time they were married.  This family would fall apart without her and they didn’t even realize it.  At least that’s the way Cynthia saw the whole situation.
Kevin was just as glad to not see his mother.  How could the entire world be wrong and his mother be right?  How could anyone be so arrogant as to believe that he or she should control the lives of others?  He sat in the den fuming about the state of affairs and wondering what to do about it.  Part of him wanted to do exactly what Karen was doing—just leave it all behind.  But there was another part of him that worried about Kathy.  He also was sure he would miss his dad tremendously.  The sound of the doorbell jolted him out of his state of confusion.
Kevin opened the door to see a police sergeant on the other side.  Immediately, he knew something was wrong.  “May I help you?”  His voice trembled.
“I’m Sergeant Lloyd.  Is this the home of Michael Owens?”
“Yes, it is.”
“May I ask who you are?”
“I’m his son, Kevin.”
“Is your mother at home?”
“Yes, she is.”
“May I speak with her?”
Kevin turned to walk down the hallway, but Cynthia was on her way to the door.  “Who is at the door?”
“It’s a police officer.”
“A police officer?  What has Karen done?”  Cynthia huffed as she walked quickly and determinedly to the door.  “What is it, Officer?  Whatever my daughter has done, she will have to take care of herself.  She is an adult.”
“This has nothing to do with your daughter, Mrs. Owens.  Your husband was attacked in the park.  He has been taken to the hospital.  Would you like for me to drive…..”
Cynthia felt the room begin to spin.  The room was suddenly stifling and she couldn’t breathe.  The officer standing at her door became blurry and seemed to be swaying from side to side.  Then she knew that she was going to faint.  Kevin and Officer Lloyd caught her before she hit the floor and laid her down gently.  Cynthia woke to see Kevin, Kathy, and Officer Lloyd standing over her.  Kathy was wiping her face with a wet wash cloth. 
After Cynthia was coherent, Officer Lloyd offered again to drive her to the hospital.
“I can drive us, thank you officer.”  Kevin told him.
“Then I will leave you now.  Please know that we will do everything that we can to find the people who did this and prosecute them to the fullest.”
“People?  You mean there was more than one?”  Cynthia asked in a voice that came close to reach hysteria.
“Yes ma’am.  We think it was a gang.  Your husband is in pretty bad shape.  I urge you to get to the hospital quickly.”
“We’ll leave now.  Thank you for coming, Officer.”  Kevin said much more calmly than he felt.
Kathy gathered her mother’s purse and coat while Kevin called Karen.  When they were all ready to go, Kevin picked up the keys to his truck. 
“Can we please take my car?  Your truck is not very comfortable.”  Cynthia asked close to tears.
“Sure, Mom.”
Kevin had driven about two blocks when Cynthia began yelling at him.  “Can’t you go any faster?  You should have asked for a police escort.  We will never get there at this rate.”
“Mom…”  Kevin began in an angry tone.
“He’s doing the best he can, Mom.  We’ll get there.  Try to calm down.”  Kathy interrupted in a reassuring voice which seemed to help everyone relax.
After what seemed an eternity, they arrived at the emergency room entrance.  Cynthia almost flew out of the car and nearly attacked the first nurse she saw.  “Where is my husband?  Where is my husband?”
“Calm down.  Tell me your husband’s name.”
“Michael.  His name is Michael.  Now where is he?”
“Does Michael have a last name?”
“Well of course he does.  Don’t be stupid.”
“His name is Michael Owens.”  Kevin interjected.
“Oh yes.  You are the Owens family.”
Before she could tell them where Michael was, Karen stormed into the emergency room lobby.  “If my father dies, I will never forgive you.”  She shouted, pointing her finger in her mother’s face.
“Don’t you speak to me like that, young lady.  I am still your mother.”
“Not if my dad dies.  You will never see me again.  This is all your fault.”
The supervising nurse heard the commotion and came to the aid of the poor little nurse caught in the middle of Hurricane Karen and Volcano Cynthia.  “Excuse me.  This is a hospital and I will have to ask you hold your voices down.  Who are you?”
“This is the Owens family.”  The accosted nurse told her.
“Oh, the Owens family.  Please follow me.”  The supervisor escorted them to a private family room which was comfortably furnished with soft sofas.  “Please wait here.  The doctor will be in to see you as soon as he can.”
As the supervisor walked out of the door, leaving the family alone, they looked at each other.  The fear in their eyes expressed more than any words could have.  This wasn’t a good sign.  While the nurses had been polite, they had not really answered any questions.  They were still trying to digest the meaning of their predicament when the door opened and a man dressed in a suit walked in.
“Hello,  I’m Reverend Hodges.  I am a chaplain here at the hospital.  Can I get anything for you?”
“Some answers would be nice.”  Cynthia said.
“Well, I don’t have many, but I will tell you what I know.  Your husband was attacked in the park by a gang and beaten severely.  He is in surgery now.  The hospital called in Dr. Silva a top neurosurgeon to operate.  They are doing the best that they can.”
“Is he going to be alright?”  Karen asked.
“Like I said, they are doing the best that they can do.  May I ask if you are a family of faith?”
“Yes.  We are.  My husband is a deacon and I am the church secretary.”
“May I call your pastor for you?”
“At the moment we don’t have a pastor.  Our pastor left to begin his ministry at the new long-term hospice facility.”
“Oh, yes.  I have met him.  I’m sure he would still be willing to come.  Would you like for me to call him for you?”
“That might be nice.  Thank you.”
Pastor Baird came into the family room about 11:30 that night.  The family had been there for over an hour with no news.  Cynthia burst into tears as soon as she saw her friend and former boss.  He sat down  beside her.  “Would you like for me to pray with you?”
“Yes, please.”  Cynthia said when she could control her voice again.
The family and Pastor Baird joined hands.  “Our loving Father, we come to you tonight with a special request.  We know that you already know that Your child, Michael is in critical condition.  Lord, he has been Your faithful servant for years.  We asked that You place Your healing hand upon him.  We are asking for complete recovery, God, but never the less, not our will, but Yours be done.  Strength this family to accept whatever you have in store for them.  Amen.”
“Thank you, Pastor.”  Kevin said.
“Why haven’t we heard anything?”  Cynthia asked.
“Let me see if I can get some information.”  Pastor Baird headed out the door.
“Let’s go get everyone something to drink.”  Kevin told Kathy.
After they left the room, the silence was louder than any scream Cynthia had ever heard.  “Are you going to speak to me?”  She asked Karen.
“I have said all I have to say to you.”

 

Biography
Theresa Franklin grew up in Houston, Texas.  After graduation she attended East Texas Baptist College.  There she met her husband on a blind date.  They married a short time later and moved outside of Beaumont, Texas where they raised their three children. 

Theresa taught school for 12 years.  Students with disabilities won her heart and she became Director of Special Education in an effort to better serve them.  She retired in 2010 and began writing children’s books.  She has now broadened her skills and written for adults.

Theresa is the author of children’s books, Don’t Forget Daddy and A Sunny Tomorrow.  Her adult books include non-fiction Journey to Fulfillment and fiction Triumph Through Trial.  She has written one curriculum guide for the novel Night of the Cossack, a historical fiction for young adults by Tom Blubaugh, titled Night of the Cossack, Lesson Plan.  Soon to be released is another adult fiction titled Reflections of Rosalyn.
Theresa is now making plans to build a new house that will serve her and her husband for many years to come.  She is looking forward to moving to her chosen community and becoming active in the local church.  That won’t be possible until after her daughter’s wedding in June.

And the Beat Goes On by Tracy Krauss

An archeological team makes an unprecedented discovery while working on site in a remote part of Zimbabwe, Africa – Pterodactyl and human remains found together. Evidence leads back to an ancient race of super humans that pre-date legendary Noah’s flood – the Nephilim, a race of people born of the union between humans and ‘gods’ that led to the cataclysmic destruction of the early world.

And the Beat Goes On is the story of Dr. Mark Graham, world renowned archeologist, who is now faced with the dilemma of presenting these controversial findings to the world. Not only does the discovery rock Mark’s own beliefs about the origins of the universe, but he must grapple with his own credibility as a scientist. Is he willing to sacrifice it all in order to present the truth? And just how far will his opposition go to keep him from doing so? He soon finds himself in a dangerous web of cover up and conspiracy that leads to arrest, kidnapping, and ultimately murder.

Mark’s journey of discovery takes him from Africa to North America and back again. During his search he unexpectedly discovers more about himself than he had bargained for. He is introduced to his biological mother, the woman who abandoned him as an infant, and the siblings he had never met. He also falls unexpectedly in love with the girl next door. During it all, he learns about betrayal and trust and discovers who his true friends really are.

And the Beat Goes On is a sequel to another novel, Play It Again, the story of Mark’s parents, Russ and Deanie Graham. However, the novel stands quite firmly on its own two feet.

Tracy Krauss is a high school teacher by profession, and a prolific author, artist, playwright and director by choice. She received her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Saskatchewan and has gone on to teach Art, Drama and English – all the things she is passionate about. After raising four children, she and her husband now reside in beautiful Tumbler Ridge, BC where she continues to pursue all of her creative interests.

Play it Again by Tracy Krauss

Tracy Krauss, author of ‘edgy inspirational fiction’, is launching her book  PLAY IT AGAIN today.

You can help her achieve ‘best seller’ status by purchasing the book at amazon.com TODAY – and receive all kinds of cool free gifts while you’re at it!
Here’s how:
1. Go to the Landing Page on Tracy’s Website
2. Buy the book at amazon.
3. Go back to the Landing Page and fill in the form with your name, email and purchase number
It’s that easy! You’ll be directed to your free gifts and all you have to do is choose which ones you want. 
 
About the book:
An unlikely duo meet in Play It Again, a story of love, life and faith. Sparks fly when an ex-rock and roll junkie and a stuffy accountant rendezvous at a local resort, but neither are prepared for the emotional entanglements, family complications, and threat from the past that unexpectedly resurfaces. Set in the 1980s, this story brings two opposing forces together in a clash of romance and danger, while its musical undertones highlight the theme that God can turn anything into beautiful music. Play It Again is the much anticipated prequel to Tracy’s debut novel And the Beat Goes On. Find out where Mark Graham’s journey began in this, the story of his parents.

What others are saying about PLAY IT AGAIN:
“This is one of the best contemporary novels I’ve read all year. . . Not only was it well-written, but it was edgy in that the story dared to be honest. . . I can see this touching a lot of people who have thought about God but have been afraid to move forward.”
-  Michelle Sutton, author of more than a dozen inspirational novels

“This book is hot property, and grabs your interest from page one.”
-   Yvonne Pat Wright, author of From Spice to Eternity

Author bio:
Tracy Krauss is a high school teacher by profession, and a prolific author, artist, playwright and director by choice. She received her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Saskatchewan and has gone on to teach Art, Drama and English – all the things she is passionate about. After raising four children, she and her husband now reside in beautiful Tumbler Ridge, BC where she continues to pursue all of her creative interests. Her first two books were both nominated for the ‘Indie Excellence Book Awards’ for religious fiction in 2011.

FREE STUFF:
Here’s just a sampling of the FREE e-gifts from generous supporters:

-          An e-copy of Lisa Lickel’s award winning novel Meander Scar
-          Sample chapters from The Promise of Deer Run by Elaine Cooper, Warring Spirits by April Gardner, and The Right Person by Stacy Padula
-          Beautiful downloadable art cards by author and artist Brenda Hendricks
-          A free subscription to ‘PixApple’
-          You copy of Frazzled No More by Shelley Hitz
-          A cool ‘Daily Scheduler’ developed by author Janalyn Voigt
-          And much more!
All if you buy your copy of PLAY IT AGAIN at amazon.com today!  All links will be operational on the ‘Landing Page’ at www.tracykrauss.com/ 

DISCLAIMER: This ‘Best Seller book launch’ has been coordinated with the help of the ‘John 3:16 Marketing Network’ and many other generous supporters. The free gifts are deliverable electronically over the internet or by email by individual authors and supporters. They are not in any way associated with, nor deliverable by, amazon.com 

Journey to Fulfillment by Theresa Franklin

Join Author, Theresa Franklin, in her tender and delightful memoir, Journey to Fulfillment, as she shares her life experiences that have molded her character into the woman God intended her to be. Theresa, honestly and brazenly discusses heartaches, tragedies and triumphs from childhood through adulthood. With an open and compassionate heart, the Author lays bare the adversity she has faced through life to include the loss of her first love to marrying and the challenges one can face in being a wife and a mother, and notably her struggles in teaching special needs children. Throughout all, there has been one constant in her life, the unconditional love of her Savior, Jesus Christ.

Gain the proper perspective in regards to your life and glean from Theresa Franklin’s many years of experience as a Director of Special Education to discover your destiny in life and find fulfillment by transforming the adversities and hardships of your life into stepping stones that will lead you to a life well lived through Christ. This book will help you find the fulfillment you are searching for as your reflect on your upbringing and causes one to re-evaluate what is really most important in life, regardless of circumstances. Her desire is to see others find their fulfillment in life through Christ and she writes, “May God show you the stepping stones in your life.”

Find encouragement, guidance and strength for your soul within the pages of Journey to Fulfillment, and turn life’s stumbling blocks into stepping-stones to transform your own journey into a life well lived and a completely fulfilled life in Christ.

Excerpt

The Building Blocks
Forrest Gump’s mother likened life to a box of chocolates.  A more appropriate analogy may be life is like a potluck dinner. Everyone brings what they have to the table. No one can be expected to bring something they don’t possess. Likewise, parents bring what they have to give to their children. Most everyone has issues with their parents’ skills and are careful not to repeat the mistakes. The majority of parents feel pretty smug about their parenting skills until their own children are grown. Although they have no children of their own, in their twenties the offspring begin to share their vast knowledge with the parents, careful to point out each parenting mistake made during their childhood.  It is not until the cycle of life is complete that these enlightened ones learn that they made just as many mistakes with their children as did their own parents.  Being sixteen and nineteen years of age at the time of my birth, my parents had little to bring to the table.

Their ages alone were enough of a stumbling block.  My dad’s mother was fond of telling the story of how he rocked me to sleep by moving my cradle back and forth with his foot as he sat reading a comic book. My dad liked to tell the story of my mother getting angry with him and going for a walk. This sounded like a good plan, but she would walk until she was no longer angry and unfortunately too tired to walk back home.  She would call the house, and he would go get her.  They were typical teenagers trying to survive in an adult world.

My parents were born during the depression and grew up amidst World War II. Both dropped out of school in the tenth grade and both lacked parental guidance as children. They too determined not to make the same mistakes their parents had made.  My mother’s parents were alcoholics. Research shows that scars last a lifetime for children of alcoholics.  Even as adults, children of alcoholics have difficulty trusting others.

***
As a child, my mother remembers being sent to the movies on Saturday morning and returning to find broken beer bottles littering the floor. She knew that her parents had been fighting. When she was about seven years old, her dad left the family, and she did not see or hear from him again until she was forty-one years old. At that time, her youngest sister was working evenings as a telephone operator. When she was not busy, she used the time to search for their dad. He had made no effort to get in touch with the family. My grandmother had raised the five children alone during war times. She worked six days a week. On Sunday, she sent the children to church, cleaned the house, and cooked a large dinner. During the week while she worked, the children did chores around the house after school. As a single mother, my grandmother had little time for reading stories to the children or being involved in their education. It took all her effort just to feed them. Thus my mother and her siblings grew up with little emotional support.

Similarly my father grew up with very little supervision from his parents. His father was employed by the railroad, which required him to work different shifts.  His schedule was eight hours on the job, then off for twenty-four hours and this daunting schedule never waivered. The cycle meant that if he worked during the day on Monday, he worked evenings on Tuesday, and the graveyard shift on Wednesday. He was often working when the children were not in school. My grandfather was considerably older than my grandmother.  The difference in age led to incompatible value systems.

Even in today’s world, my father’s mother would be considered a wild woman. She liked the bars and saw no problem with leaving the children unattended while she visited her hangouts. Stories are told of her being gone for two or three days at a time. My grandfather would care for the children and work his job.  Eventually someone would go by the house and tell him where to find his wife, and he would go get her.  The episodes could have been considered the modern day story of Gomer and Hosea from the Bible.

 

 

To buy a copy of Journey to Fulfillment visit Amazon

 

Learn more about Theresa Franklin at her blog or her website

Stellar Reviews of A Second Cup of Hot Apple Cider

Faith Today January/February 2012

A Second Cup of Hot Apple Cider: Words to Stimulate the Mind and Delight the Spirit
Editors N. J. Lindquist and Wendy Elaine Nelles
That’s Life! Communications, 2011
336 pages. $19.99

Some books surprise you with their ability to take your breath away. This anthology is such a book: 51 short pieces—fiction, non-fiction, poetry and even a play — written by 37 members of The Word Guild, a Canadian organization of writers, editors, publishers and speakers who are Christian.
 I was impressed with the honesty and transparency, especially in the true stories. We meet a host of fellow Canadians – our neighbours! – whose lives are as unpredictable as our own. A mother of young children gets a diagnosis of cancer. A 36-year-old magazine editor has a stroke. A man who was forced to take early retirement asks what’s next? A woman prays for patience and a few days later breaks her back. A man tries to surprise his wife with a five-day bathroom renovation. What binds all the pieces together is a cord of faith as we see how God is involved in the very real circumstances of life.
 The book wonderfully reflects Canada’s mosaic population with pieces from First Nations to home-born Canadians to immigrants, young to old, urban to rural. Though the writing styles are varied, the book was skillfully edited to preserve the individual voices while providing a smooth read.
 The short selections make this a perfect book for even indifferent readers. It would be a fabulous addition to an office waiting room, your bedside table, briefcase, backpack or purse. But be sure to buy more than one, for you will probably have the urge to share this gem of a collection with others. More details on this book and the preceding one at hotapplecider.ca.
—Violet Nesdoly

**

Maranatha News November/December 2011

A Second Cup of Hot Apple Cider: Words to Stimulate the Mind and Delight the Spirit
List Price: $19.99
ISBN # 978-0978496319
Publisher: That’s Life! Communications
Review by: Laura J. Davis

 A Second Cup of Hot Apple Cider is a delightful anthology full of heart-warming stories, poems and memoirs from over 30 Canadian authors.
 Editors N. J. Lindquist and Wendy Elaine Nelles knew what they were doing when they picked the stories for this book. There wasn’t one story in the entire anthology that didn’t touch me in some way. The sequel to the best-selling Hot Apple Cider, A Second Cup of Hot Apple Cider features more than 50 heart-stirring stories.
 Distinctly Canadian, the authors have bared their souls, giving the reader the perfect book to snuggle up to that will resonate in your spirit for a very long time.

Get your copy today!

Finding God: Biblical Answers to Questions about Our Maker by Cheryl Rogers

A new book which lays out the biblical path to salvation is slated for release in late January. The book entitled Finding God: Biblical Answers to Questions about Our Maker is aimed at those who question God’s existence, who pray and feel their prayers are unanswered, and who find church empty and meaningless.

“I know firsthand what it is like to go through life without a relationship with God,” says the author, Cheryl Rogers, a former journalist. “I came to know the Lord through an adult, as the result of a serious illness, and so I have dedicated myself to sharing the knowledge of God with others in any way I can.”

Finding God: Biblical Answers to Questions about Our Maker answers critical questions about God — Is God real, who is God, what does God expect of us, where can we find God, and how to accept the gift of salvation. The book is slated for release in multiple ebook formats, including epub, mobi, and pdf.

“The book does not espouse any particular denomination or non-denomination,” says Cheryl. “It is unabashedly Bible-based.”

Cheryl succumbed to the severe immune disorder, Environmental Illness, in late 1993. She began praying for healing and seeking help through medical doctors. But three years later, when she had failed to recover, she surrendered her life to God.

“He immediately began turning around my circumstances,” Cheryl recalls. “Five months later I was delivered of Environmental Illness through the laying on of hands as they describe it in the Bible. God gave me my life back … and it’s never been the same since.”

Among her other books are Fast Track to Victory, A Christian Guidebook, a 40-lesson devotions book aimed at new and young Christians; Just Like Jonah Wail Tales, a short story collection for preteens and teens; and I Can See Christian Storybook Treasury, a book aimed at defeating doubt about God as children grow.

She also publishes a New Christian Books Online Magazine, which features new book announcements, excerpts, and other articles of interest to Christian readers and authors. The magazine includes a store that accepts author submissions and an affiliate program that offers 15 percent commission.

“Authors can register for free at the magazine front page and submit their book announcements and excerpts as well,” Cheryl explains. “They also can build a following by commenting on the posts.”

For more information, contact Cheryl

Warring Spirits by April W Gardner

There’s a party going on!!

Historical fiction author April W Gardner is celebrating the release of Warring Spirits, the second book in her Creek Country Saga! Everyone who purchases Warring Spirits on Amazon today, Thursday, December 15th, will be entered into SIX different drawings for some cool and unique prizes. That’s right—ONE purchase. SIX chances to win.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS.

She’s also giving away personalized, signed book plates (labels for the inside cover). One for every book you purchase. That’s a lot of bang for your buck. Order today and cross a few names off your Christmas list!

So what’s this book all about? Warring Spirits is the sequel to Wounded Spirits, April’s Grace Award winning debut novel. Here’s a bit about today’s featured book:
In 1816 Georgia, escaped slaves control the land just beyond the American border in Las Floridas. Lost somewhere between white and black worlds, Milly follows hope to the only place that can offer her refuge—the place Georgians are calling Negro Fort. The first, sweet taste of freedom convinces Milly that surrender is not an option. Death would be more welcome.
Major Phillip Bailey has orders to subdue the uprising and return the runaways to their masters. Forced to fight alongside Creek warriors—the same who etched the scars into his mind and flesh—Phillip primes himself for battle.  But inside, a war already rages—return for the woman he thought lost to him or concede her to the enemy she loves; follow orders or follow his heart.

Books excerpts are a great way to get a feel for the author’s writing style, so I asked April to share a scene with us. Here’s a taste of chapter one when we’re introduced to the hero, Major Phillip Bailey.
***
Phillip knew it was a dream. He told himself again, though it did little good. The children’s shrieks grew louder. The flaming pickets roared with new life, as though fueled by his denial of their existence.
His legs churned, but he couldn’t free his mind of the constant nightmare. At least this time, he reasoned, he wasn’t awake. Small blessings.
And then, he saw her.
Adela.
Arms dangling at her sides and skirt undulating in the waves of heat, she stood across the compound. Her lips were motionless, but her voice echoed through his mind. “Phillip.”
He rushed toward the vision, and she reached for him. “Phillip, love, you must wake up.”
With a cry, he bolted upright.
The silhouette of a woman hovered over him. He stared at her, unblinking, afraid to move and frighten her away.
Sweat poured down his chest—sweat as real as the shadow seemed.
“That’s better,” she whispered. “You’ll be alright.”
He disagreed, but if he spoke, he might shatter her. He’d done it before.
Her loose hair swayed as she moved so near, he should feel her heat.
Taking in the comfort of her presence, he held his breath until his lungs burned with need. Refusing to be contained any longer, air exploded from his mouth. The sound ripped through the cabin, and in one blink, Adela vanished.
A moan built in Phillip’s throat, and he buried his head in his trembling palms. When his fingers collided with the jagged flesh on his face, he recalled again why Adela was no more to him than a mocking shadow, a figment of his deluded, half-crazed mind.
She had turned him down.
Familiar nausea haunted his gut. With a growl, he threw his damp pillow across the room. The sound of splintering glass sent him scrambling for the musket by his bed. He had the unsteady barrel aimed toward the source before he realized he’d been the cause of the commotion.
He dropped the weapon and backed away from it as though it were a copperhead. Blood pounded in his throat. He swallowed hard, terrified of his own mind.
It had been nearly two years. One more night of this and he would prove the gossip correct. He would go mad.
There had to be a better way.
“Help me.” His voice shivered, and for once, he was thankful to be alone. “Sweet Jesus, show me a better way.”

***

Sound intriguing? Head over to APRIL’S PLACE  to learn more! Or go straight to AMAZON  to get your copy.

April W Gardner resides in Georgia with her USAF husband and two sweet kiddos. She is the author of the historical romance series, the Creek Country Saga, as well as the children’s adventure series, the Channel Islands Resistance. She is the founder and senior editor of the fun literary website, Clash of the Titles. In her free time, April enjoys reading, organizing, and DIY. In no particular order, she dreams of owning a horse, visiting all the national parks, and speaking Italian.

Special Christmas Devotional Series based on Set Free to Live Free

I want to invite you to join me in creating a new holiday tradition – unwrapping the gift of you each day during the 12 days of Christmas. During these 12 days you will receive an original email devotional based on the principles in Set Free to Live Free: Breaking Through the 7 Lies Women Tell Themselves. You will uncover new truths about who you are in Christ and the gift He has deposited inside of you. We will work together through scripture passages and reflect on the truth it sheds on your value. In addition to unwrapping the gift of you, a wonderful group of authors, life coaches, health coaches and nutritionists have teamed up to offer special gifts ($15-100 gift cards, books, CD’s, coaching packages, and more) to those participating in these 12 days! Sign-up at: http://bit.ly/Unwrap

~You can download the entire first chapter of Set Free to Live Free at www.setfreetolivefreebook.com ~
Saundra Dalton-Smith MD is a board-certified internal medicine physician who has been practicing medicine since 1999. She treats a predominantly female population and has firsthand experience with the struggles women face trying to imitate the American dream. Dr. Dalton-Smith has been an adjunct faculty member at Baker College and Davenport University in Michigan. She teaches courses on health, nutrition, and disease progression. Dr. Dalton-Smith has offered health care from 2002-2007 through the National Health Service Corp. She lives in Alabama with her husband and two boys. She is a committed Christian and passionate about helping others experience freedom in Christ. Visit her blog at gracetolivefree.blogspot.com

 

Back Cover Copy

Imagine life with unlimited possibility, where fear, misconceptions, and insecurities don’t have the power to rob us of our potential or our dreams. Many women have trouble seeing this vision because they are bound by mental ties that keep them from living free.

In Set Free to Live Free, Saundra Dalton-Smith shows women how to break free from seven mental ties that hold them back, including striving for perfection, comparing themselves to others, all-or-nothing attitudes, and more. Through case studies and inspirational writing, she encourages women to embrace spontaneity, be transparent, nurture their bodies, and cultivate a balanced life.

Endorsements

“Finally a book that brings to light the lies that women have been fed since childhood–and how to break their emotional grip on our lives forever. Saundra Dalton-Smith shows us just how precious we are to God, and how we can live empowered and drama-free lives.”–Carol M. Mackey, author of the bestselling Sistergirl Devotions: Keeping Jesus in the Mix on the Job

“The God part of our brain is powerful. Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith has captured the role of Spirit in the healing process with clarity and love in her book Set Free to Live Free.”–Jane I. Honikman, MS, founder of Postpartum Support International
What readers are saying about Set Free to Live Free …

“Set Free To Live Free, is a book every woman should read. Better yet, read it with your daughters. Oh, the lies we tell ourselves!” –Robin

“Free to be my personal best, to not compare myself to others but to be the best unique me that God created me to be…what a wonderful freeing message.” –R Kay

“There are other books that discuss lies that women tell themselves. Did we need another one? I did. Even if you think you have heard it all before, I would encourage you to read Set Free to Live Free. I’ve taken seven pages of notes and made liberal use of a yellow highlighter.”- Patricia

“Wow, what a powerful book! This might be the best book I’ve read all year!” –Lori

“I love books that are not `self-help,’ but `Christ-help.’ Such is the case with Set Free to Live Free. I really feel like the Lord has brought this book to me `for such a time as this.’ I think He is going to do some mighty works in my life in the near future, and I think He wanted to bring these truths to my attention at this point in time! ” –Andrea

“I think all women would benefit greatly from this book.” –Brenda

“This book is very, very real and practical – there are no frills and no band-aids offered every other sentence. This makes the book very good for those of us who lead busy lives as adults and really do not want to be talked down to by someone who is writing a book that is supposed to offer help and strength. Strength is tough! The author understands that.” – Ashley

“Set Free to Live Free is just that freedom from all the lies we as woman have become comfortable with through the years.” –Mrs. Bailey

“This is a book I will need to read again and really ponder how to apply the principals to my life. I sure could use a little setting free that’s for sure.” –Mary

 

 

Night of the Cossack by Tom Blubaugh

Tom Blubaugh is a freelance writer living in Southwest Missouri with Barbara, his wife.  They have six children and fourteen grandchildren. Tom has written non-fiction most of his adult life, but has recently written a historical fiction titled Night of the Cossack, published by Bound by Faith Publishers. This is Tom’s first novel. He co-wrote a devotional journal in 2009 for Barbour Publishing titled The Great Adventure. His other writings include articles for a denominational magazine and an insurance publication. He also self-published a book, Behind the Scenes of the Bus Ministry in 1974.

Tom started writing poetry at the age of fourteen. His vision of turning them into lyrics for rock and roll songs for popular artists didn’t develop. He considers writing to be a God-given talent and feels led to develop it. His first novel was published at his age of 69. Tom says it’s never too late. He is now writing a sequel.

Tom spent twelve years as an insurance agent and eleven years as a financial planner. He is the past president of Jericho Commission, Inc., and still serves on the board of directors.

**

The launch for Night of the Cossack will be today!  Lots of free giveaways, plus a chance on a $25 Amazon gift card and several books.

Excerpt from Tom Blubaugh’s Night of the Cossack

Excerpt

The Cossack untied his own horse. He mounted, his pistol aimed at Nathan. “We have some distance to cover.  Circle around the barn. We’ll ride through the woods to the north of the village then turn east to the road going toward the mountains. Ride slow, I don’t want to draw anyone’s attention. I’ll be right behind you with my pistol pointed at your horse. If you try anything, I’ll shoot him.”

For several minutes they rode through the trees. The firelight flickered on the trees, casting weird shadows all around. Nathan looked from side to side straining to see a friend, someone who might be able to help. It was eerie. The only movement were women mourning over their dead. On the north side of the village, Nathan turned his horse east.  They came to the road.

The Cossack nudged his horse beside Nathan’s. Without warning, he tossed Nathan’s rifle into the air. Nathan snatched it with his left hand and held Aza’s reins in the other.

“Good reflexes.” The Cossack smiled. “You and your horse make a good team.”

Nathan looked away. He acts as if this is a game.

The Promise of Deer Run by Elaine Cooper

BOOK LAUNCH on DECEMBER 1, 2011 for The Promise of Deer Run!

Where: Amazon.com

How to participate: Buy The Promise of Deer Run on December 1 at Amazon.com and you will qualify to receive several free e-gifts!

View BOOK TRAILER

Book Summary of The Promise of Deer Run

America’s war for freedom from England has been over for seven years, but the wounds of that conflict still plague the minds and hearts of the residents of Deer Run.

Young American veteran Nathaniel Stearns, suffering from the memories of war that haunt him in the night, has withdrawn to a life of isolation. He still awaits his father who never returned from the war—a mystery that haunts him as well.

He is brought out of his self-imposed exile by a near-tragedy in the woods that brings him face-to-face with nineteen-year-old Sarah Thomsen, someone he had long admired but he assumed had eyes for another. This chance encounter opens a crack into the door of his heart as mutual affection quickly blooms.

But slander and lies soon mar the budding romance, rendering both Sarah and Nathaniel wounded and untrusting as their faith in both their God and each other is shattered. Set in 1790 and filled with rich detail of the era, this book continues the story of the Thomsen and Lowe families as they struggle to survive in the aftermath of the war that birthed the United States.

The Promise of Deer Run is Book Two in the Deer Run Saga. Book one is entitled, The Road to Deer Run.

 
Author Biography

Elaine Marie Cooper grew up in Massachusetts but now lives in the Midwest with her husband, her three dogs and one huge cat. She has two married sons and triplet grandchildren who are now one and a half years old. Elaine’s only daughter, Bethany, passed away in 2003 from a brain tumor.
Her debut novel, The Road to Deer Run, was a finalist in the 2011 Next Generation Indie Book Awards, received an Honorable Mention in the 2011 Los Angeles Book Festival, and was a Clash of the Titles Champion for “Most Romantic Moment.”
The sequel, entitled The Promise of Deer Run, was recently released.

A registered nurse, Elaine is also a regular contributor to three blogs for writers: The Barn Door (www.thebarndoor.net), Reflections In Hindsight (ReflectionsInHindsight.wordpress.com), and Faith, Fiction, and Friends.
Elaine Marie Cooper can be reached on FaceBook http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000997223171
or visit her websites at: www.PromiseofDeerRun.com
                                      www.DeerRunBooks.com

Rose McCauley’s Thanksgiving Week Giveaway!

Rose McCauley is so thankful to have her first fiction book pubbed—Christmas Belles of Georgia—that she is doing a giveaway of the e-cookbook Novel Morsels to anyone who orders Christmas Belles of Georgia from Amazon November 23-27.

Novel Morsels is a cookbook compiled by Nicole O’Dell with over 100 recipes from books written by 65 authors. This book will soon be listed on Amazon at $2.99 a copy. But this week you can receive it free by ordering a copy of Christmas Belles of Georgia on Amazon, then going to Rose’s blog at www.rosemccauley.blogspot.com where you will find out how to contact her by email to give her your amazon order code and receive the code for the free copy of Novel Morsels.

So hurry on over to Amazon.com and order a copy or two or three of Christmas Belles of Georgia (they make lovely Christmas gifts!) and then get a free gift for yourself.

You will have lots of recipes to try out in the coming months and can read about some more great books!

 And right now Amazon is having a special deal if you buy 3 books under $10 you get one free! It’s a win/win deal!

You can do your shopping with a couple clicks and not have to battle all the crowds! To whet your appetite I am including my version of my Southern-style dressing copied from the book. Recipe Title: Best Dressing Recipe Ever! Book info: Christmas Belles of Georgia, Barbour Publishing, 2011. My novella is entitled Nick’s Christmas Carol.

Recipe: Start early in the morning (or can do the night before): cook 2 Jiffy cornbread mixes per package instructions in a 13×9 pan at 400 degrees until done. (15-20 min.) Let cool then crumble into bite-sized pieces. (I cut into 1 in. squares in pan and then crumble it up.) Toast 12 slices bread (I like whole wheat but have used white) cool, then pulse in the food processor until tiny crumbs. Pour breadcrumb mixture on top of crumbled corn bread. Next (or next day after you get the turkey in the oven) prepare turkey broth by cooking the giblets in 4-6 cups of water or use 4 chicken bouillon cubes in water or prepared chicken stock. Use food processor to chop one medium onion, then 3 or 4 stalks of celery. Place skillet on top of stove on medium and melt one stick of margarine, then add 1 pound pork sausage and cook, chopping it into small pieces with spatula. To this mixture add the celery and onion and cook together. To the 13×9 pan with cornbread and bread mixture add 1 t. pepper, 1 t. sage, 1 t. poultry seasoning and mix throughout. Then pour everything in the skillet on top and blend together in pan. Then pour 2 cups of the broth over this, adding more broth ½ cup at a time until it forms a stiff dough. It can now be cooked in a couple buttered baking dishes for 20-25 min. at 350 degrees if you prefer your dressing soft. My husband’s mother always made dressing balls, so if you wish to do that you can roll the mixture into balls or I scoop it with a buttered ¼ cup measuring cup and place the humps into a buttered dish and cook at 350 for 25 minutes. This recipe will make 28- ¼ cup balls which should serve around 14 guests.

The hero’s aunt who raised him makes this recipe for Thanksgiving dinner each year. She lives in Atlanta, Georgia, so is a great southern cook. This is also the recipe I make for my Thanksgiving dinner each year. It is a several-steps process, but well-worth the effort—just ask my kids who don’t like anyone else’s dressing as much as mine! I got the basic recipe from the cooks at the school where I taught for two years in South Carolina and have gradually tweaked it to make it my own.

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! May you be surrounded by those you love!

Running on G by Kimberly James

Kimberly James chronicles her life and the intimate details of how her “mess” collided with the love of God to catapult her into her purpose in “Running on G: What’s Filling Your Tank?”

This book tells her story of dealing with childhood trauma and difficulties throughout her adult life while delivering the message that no matter what life brings, we are the sole masters of our destiny and that even your pain has a purpose.

“Running on G” puts readers into James’ shoes and thought-process as she evolves through many debilitating life experiences. Her message to her readers is that nothing is pre-determined. Through sharing her story, she proves to be a perfect example of how people can overcome any level of adversity and redirect the course of his/her life as long as they are able and willing to grow through the limitations of their ego.

The first chapter begins at the end of the book with an identity beautifully and authentically redefined through the evolution of a human soul. What is great is that the reader gets to be a part of that evolution and they too walk away feeling like anything is possible. This book is written in a style that allows readers to feel as if they are reading a diary or a novel with no shortage of drama.

James hopes that her life experiences will give hope to others who face their own series of challenges and disappointments. Her goal was to give something back that will leave a legacy of hope and triumph, and hopefully improve the lives of others.

“Like me, so many are perplexed by their suffering and uncertain how to navigate through the fog” James says. “This work is much bigger than me. I wrote it purely out of obedience. It is the most painful yet rewarding thing I have ever accomplished.”

Kimberly J. James is the Founder and President of the Dream in Color Foundation in Northern Virginia, where she lives with her family. Kim is a graduate of Hampton University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Speech Communications and Theatre Arts. She is a life coach, a motivational speaker and a devoted wife and mother, who has courageously stepped up to break the silence to share her story of triumph and restoration from a generational curse traced all the way back to her slave ancestors. Kim is dedicated to empowering young people to dream big, pursue it relentlessly and live their lives helping others. She also hopes that her story will inspire her readers to look at their own lives and develop the courage and tenacity to heal what is broken and stop letting their past issues or mistakes dictate the outcome of their future.

Launch Details:
Amazon.com, Tuesday, November 22nd, 2011

Visit Kimberly’s Landing page

A great Christmas gift!

Interview with author April Gardner

What inspired you to write Wounded Spirits?

I believed Chief Red Eagle was an ancestor of mine. Recently, that’s been proven false (bummer!), but it’s no matter. The stories I was told as child live on in my heart and now, in my books!

What’s next on your publishing agenda?

So glad you asked! Warring Spirits, the next book in the Creek Country Saga, releases with Vinspire Publishing November 30, 2011. Here’s what it’s about:
In 1816 Georgia, escaped slaves control the land just beyond the American border in Las Floridas. Lost somewhere between white and black worlds, Milly follows hope to the only place that can offer her refuge—the place Georgians are calling Negro Fort. The first, sweet taste of freedom convinces Milly that surrender is not an option. Death would be more welcome.
Major Phillip Bailey has orders to subdue the uprising and return the runaways to their masters. Forced to fight alongside Creek warriors—the same who etched the scars into his mind and flesh—Phillip primes himself for battle.  But inside, a war already rages—return for the woman he thought lost to him or concede her to the enemy she loves; follow orders or follow his heart.

Does your faith influence your writing? If so, in what way?
In the past, I’ve been deeply touched by Christian fiction, so I know that God can use it to reach lives. If He chose me as a vessel to do the same for others, I would be honored. I want every word that I write to glorify Him, but I also want to write realistically—no hokey, everyone-gets-saved-in-the-end Christianity for me. Life is tough. People reject Christ. Christians make mistakes—big ones. That’s the kind of reality in my writing that I strive for.

What would you say is your most interesting writing quirk?
 Does plotting in the shower count? I really do my best plotting in the morning under a steaming hot shower. Our water bill doesn’t appreciate it, but my heroes do!

Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
I backed into my husband’s car, crunching the bumpers of both vehicles. Twice. In three months.
I can solve a Rubik Cube. Takes me ten minutes, but I can do it. It’s my only claim to braininess.
I collect antiquarian books.

What do you find most rewarding about writing and most challenging?

Most rewarding? Creating worlds and people to fill them. Most challenging? Returning to my own! I love every bit of my real life, but there’s something addicting about stepping into my pretend world. Once there, I get sucked in. Kinda like Facebook. Lol!

If you could live off one food for the rest of your life, what would you choose?

Rice. Love all forms of rice. Maybe because I was born in Asia?

What have you learned about the craft that you would like to pass on to other writers?

I’ve learned that there is never an end to learning! Just when you think you’re arriving, bam! You realize how much further you have to go. Recently, I discovered author K.M. Weiland’s website. She’s a talented author who has boat loads of great tips for writers.

What themes do you like to write about?
I get a thrill at finding an intriguing bit of history buried by time and lost to most. Any setting will do, although I prefer it be American. It’s important to know where we’ve come from and who carved our country into what it is.

Thanks for sharing!

Visit April’s  website

The Book of Ruth by Deborah H. Bateman

The Book of Ruth is a Daily Bible Reading Devotional. The characters in “The Book of Ruth” deal with loss, lack, and romance. Through their many trials they learn to lean on God and His sovereign will for their lives. Even though Ruth is a Moabite she decides to follow her mother-in-law, Naomi back to her homeland of Judah.

The two ladies travel back with nothing and are not sure how they will survive, but they trust God to make a way for them. As you read “The Book of Ruth”, you will see the story unfold and see God’s provision for these two ladies. Reading “The Book of Ruth” will help you recognize God’s sovereignty and provision in your own life.

 

About the Author

The Author, Deborah H. Bateman loves studying the Bible and is dedicated to “Sharing God’s Word”. She is the Founder of Christian Daily Resources a Christian Online Ministry.
Deborah has a Daily Bible Reading Blog where she does a Daily Bible Study. This is where “The Book of Ruth” was started. Deborah has learned to trust God through the many trials of her life. She can relate to Naomi and Ruth’s dependence on God to see them through their life’s experiences.

 

Benefits of Studying The Book of Ruth – A Story of Love and Redemption

• You will have the benefit of studying a beautiful book of the Bible.

• You will see God’s hand of provision throughout this story.

• You will get a clearer picture of God’s sovereignty.

• You will see a beautiful picture of God’s plan for redemption.

• You will see how God brings different people into our lives.

• You will better understand God’s love for us.

• You will enjoy a beautiful love story.

• You will learn about what a kinsman-redeemer is.

• You will see who our kinsman-redeemer is.

• You will see God’s blessings in Ruth’s life.

• You will learn how God provided for the salvation of humankind through the genealogy of Ruth.

• You will be encouraged by reading The Book of Ruth.

The Book Launch will be held on the Author Website:

The Book of Ruth-A Story of Love and Redemption is available at:

Smashwords  or Amazon.com or Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.fr

Letters to God on a Prodigal Son—Overcoming Addiction through Prayer by Anita Estes

Are you struggling to cope with a loved one’s addiction? Do you need hope and a way out? Letters to God, on a Prodigal Son—Overcoming Addiction Through Prayer by Anita Estes is a powerful journal packed with prayers, practical advice and key spiritual insights to help guide you through these troubled waters.

Letters to God, on a Prodigal Son will show you how to have peace in the midst of a tumultuous storm and lead you to victory. It demonstrates how to cope with those affected by addictions and how to pray fervently and effectively.

Woven throughout the journals are entries in Lessons Learned and Suggestions for dealing successfully with these circumstances. Sure to help anyone who is coping with an addicted loved one or counseling someone in the grip of addiction. It will also be welcomed by those facing difficult situations and trying times.

November 8th is the big launch day for Letters to God on a Prodigal Son—Overcoming Addiction Through Prayer by Anita Estes. When you purchase the book on Nov. 8th you will be able to choose from many free gifts and your name will be entered into a contest to win either a $25 or $50 from some of your favorite stores!

 Here’s how: http://www.anitaestes.com/landing-page.html

About the book:

Letters to God, on a Prodigal Son—Overcoming Addiction Through Prayer is the poignant, true story of a parent’s journey through the minefield of her adult child’s addiction. This book will help you find peace in the midst of your tsunami and the secret to victorious prayer! Letters to God is a powerful journal packed with prayers, practical advice and key spiritual insights. It will help unlock the secrets to successful prayer, not only for those dealing with prodigals, but for anyone facing their own storm.
About the Author:

Anita Estes resides in the beautiful Hudson Valley of upstate New York with her husband and son. She is an art teacher, freelance writer and avid gardener. As an educator, she has been honored  in “Who’s Who of American Teachers” for 2000 and 2005. Her work appears in several compilations including God Allows U-Turns, A Cup of Comfort, Deliver Me and Adams Media books. Her devotions have been published in Penned from the Heart, “Upper Room” and on-line. She is the author of When God Speaks: 40 Days of His Promises, Transformed—Inspiring Stories of Freedom and Letters to God on a Prodigal Son—Overcoming Addiction through Prayer.  Her passion is encouraging others in their Christian walk, by calling the church to intimate and honest communication with God. She desires to help others break the bonds of addiction and pain through an understanding of God’s promises.

Interview with author Anita Estes

Welcome to an Interview with author Anita Estes about her book, Letters to God, on a Prodigal Son — Overcoming Addiction Through Prayer.

Tell me about your newest book

This power packed journal and guide was birthed from the painful passage I experienced while navigating the minefield of my son’s addiction. I kept a diary that contained many insightful prayers, letters, and scriptures that I thought would help others navigate the turbulent waters of a prodigal’s addiction, so I worked on transforming it into a book. I added two sections, Lessons Learned and Suggestions that I thought would further help others to avoid some of the pitfalls I experienced, while offering a lifeline of hope. At the time my son was going through this terrible ordeal, I couldn’t find any Christian books on the subject that gave practical and spiritual, not textbook, advice.  Letters to God, on a Prodigal Son was designed to fit this need. It’s filled with the heart-felt letters and prayers of a mother, key spiritual insights and practical advice. My desire in writing this book is to help others and minister to them though this true life story.

What are some of the pitfalls you experienced in dealing with your son’s addiction and in writing this timely and powerful book?

It is sometimes very difficult for a parent to recognize the warning signs of an addiction in their teenager, especially in this culture today when drinking is so accepted. This was my downfall. I kept thinking my son was just going through a stage, especially because he would repent when something bad happened, like losing his license for a year or failing out of college. He would turn back to God and do what was right for a while, but then he’d fall again.
One of the pitfalls in writing the book was trying to figure out a way to take my personal experience and help others learn from it. I didn’t want to offer just another informational or book of advice on addiction, so I kept it in a journal format. I wanted others to see that God held me thought this very difficult time and that He can do the same for them. I also wanted to be very honest and real because as Christians we sometimes think we need to cover up our pain and even try to keep it from God and fellow believers. I wanted to show people that you can show God your pain, cry out to Him and go through different stages with Him right alongside. The last thing you should do in a crisis is stay mad at God and stop taking or communicating with Him.

What did you learn from this experience?

I learned that God is faithful even when we’re not, even when we get mad at Him and don’t understand what he’s doing. God wants us to draw near to Him and cast ALL our concerns, cares, worries and anxieties on Him. He has very big shoulders to carry our burdens and for us to lean on and even weep upon. I also learned that God is true to His word. You can believe His promises as long as you understand them, have faith and continue to trust God with the outcome. I also learned that it’s very important to surrender your prodigal to God.  That’s the best place for them.

How did you get to that place of complete trust in God?

First, you have to have a personal relationship with Him. One is which you communicate and pray every day. A distant relationship with God will not carry you far. At first I didn’t understand why God allowed this in my son’s life. I was disappointed in God. But as I began to read the Word more and search for scriptures that spoke to my situation, I was able to apply the promises to my son. I began to press into prayer and God’s Word like I had never done before. Prior to this, I considered myself a prayer warrior, but my son’s addiction brought me into a deeper understanding of God and prayer.

What are some key excerpts?

I think there are many of them, but here are a few:
Suggestions: It is difficult not to be consumed with your addicted child, but you must not put him or her first. Your marriage and your own physical, emotional and mental stability are very important in order to be able to see things from a clear perspective. While you can pray fervently, don’t let the child or problem consume your thoughts and your time. Make time for you and your spouse, your other children and yourself. Spend time in prayer for other’s needs as well as your own.
Life Changing Promises:
During this time I really learned how to pray the scriptures and promises. I needed encouragement everyday and some promises that I could hold onto continually. Here is one more that I clung to:
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging” (Psalm 46: 1-3 NIV). 

Jesus doesn’t want us to put any relationship above Him and get our peace and joy from them. These words pierce my heart, for this is the work God is doing in my life. I cannot depend on anyone for joy or happiness. I must rely solely on Jesus. He must be my source. It’s not that I can’t receive joy from others, but Jesus needs to be the root of my joy.
What is the takeaway value of your books and of Letters to God… in particular?

All my non-fiction books and articles are written to either help Christian’s grow in their spiritual walk with God or to reach those who are hurting and hurl them a lifeline in their storm. My books lean heavily on the power of prayer and God’s amazing compassion, mercy and love. I want others to intimately know the awesome God I know and the power of praying His promises. I want to alert Christians to the enemy’s tactics so they can avoid his traps and use prayer as a powerful weapon. All of my writing is geared to coming away with a fuller understanding of God, His promises, and the transforming power of prayer.
In Letters to God, on a Prodigal Son I want those who are watching a loved one caught in the blinding windstorm of addiction to understand that God did not want this for them and He invites them to dialogue honestly with Him.  I want parents, family, relatives and friends to be equipped with spiritual tools for coming against the powers of darkness involved in addiction. My desire is to help guide them on this dark journey and lead them into the light of God’s presence.

What one issue ignites your passion?

Prayer and an intimate relationship with God are my two deepest passions. I want others to know how much God really cares for us and wants to know us. He gives us so many great gifts nestled in His promises. I want others to know how they can avail themselves of these treasures and go deeper with God. It is my desire to help others who face life’s challenges to know and understand how they can be victorious—in Jesus.

Where can you buy your books?

You can buy this book and any of my others at www.anitaestes.com   For a sneak peak of Letters to God, on a Prodigal Son go to http://tinyurl.com/3pmzusd
On Tues NOV. 8TH ONLY  I’ll be having a book launch for Letters to God… and you’ll be able to get a lot of FREE Gifts and a chance to win a free gifts card when you purchase the book on that day. You can find out more about the launch on my web-site, www.anitaestes.com  or this direct link http://www.anitaestes.com/landing-page.html
 

 

 

Lonely Hearts by Amanda Stephan

 

One lonely mother. Two matchmaking kids. Three eligible bachelors, and some very yummy apple pie. 

When widow Becky Callis moves to a new town, she thought it would be easier to start over in a place where she’s not reminded of her dead husband. Her kids, on the other hand, take it as a chance to help their mother start over romantically. The only problem is, there seems to be quite a few eligible bachelors they can choose from.They soon realize it’s easier to find someone to like their mother than it is to figure out which man is best for her. 

Even though this handsome cowboy is younger than Becky, Scott makes his interest plain and starts courting her almost immediately to the delight of both kids. 

Jack and Becky have been friends since childhood. When they’re reunited years after their lives have taken very different paths, this lonely preacher begins to wonder if God has brought her back into his life for a reason.  

Pearce Morgan is a single parent raising his young daughter when his wife deserts them soon after Emily’s birth. Divorced and disillusioned, an unlikely friendship arises between him and Becky when his shy daughter decides she loves Becky and her kids. True love is harder than it looks.

Lonely Hearts, a story of second chances, choices, and yummy apple pie released in October through TreasureLine Publishing. Exclusive Apple Pie recipe included!

What Others Are Saying

Lonely Hearts … tugged at my heart and made me laugh and cry

~ Ursula Gorman, Author of Old Acquaintances

Author Amanda Stephan does it again! She has a wonderful way of weaving faith in the Lord, everyday life, heartache and romance into terrific stories ~ Kelly Hagen, author of Jake & Jesus

Beautifully written story about second chances at love and life. The characters were genuine and seemed real to life. I was captivated at page one of the book, and read it in only one day! I will recommend this book to my friends and family ~ Anastasia@www.artfire.com/users/mattscraftywife

I LOVED this story. From beginning to end it kept me totally enthralled and wondering how it would all work out. Loaded with zippy dialog and great characters made for a fun and very satisfying tale.  I felt happy, sad, excited, angry, and frustrated. You know a story is good when it has that effect. The theme running though the story is “things may not always be as they appear.” It’s a great reminder that man looks on the outside but God looks at the heart. If you enjoy an easy-to-read, fun and entertaining story with a great message, I highly recommend Lonely Hearts.

~ Sherry Kuhn ~ Avid reader and Reviewer

This book will capture your heart and like Becky’s kids, your heart will flip-flop as you embrace one bachelor and then the other for Becky. Who will win Becky’s heart and how will the others handle her decision? This book is full of hope, anticipation, optimism, faith, and possibilities. If you have lost a love, this book will restore your faith that the possibility of true love has not withered as a flower in the hot summer sun. Amanda will capture your heart from the first page with this delightful story.

~ Theresa Franklin, author of Journey to Fulfillment

You’ll find yourself nodding with delight at Becky’s courageous reactions, cheering her on and sighing with her during her ups and downs of life. But even in the fresh humor that’s sprinkled through her experiences, you’ll admire her rare quality to uphold what’s important. Although romance wasn’t a priority, God’s ways usher Becky to unforeseen encounters with what often is inevitable when you trust in God’s lead, hold on to your convictions, and are deliciously surprised in the end. ~ Janet Perez Eckles, author of Amazon #1 bestselling, Simply Salsa: Dancing Without Fear at God’s Fiesta, Judson Press, 2011

Just when I thought I had the story figured out, Ms. Stephan would throw in an unexpected twist, tossing a monkey wrench into her characters’ lives–and a rather large monkey wrench near the end of the story. If you like romance, a touch of sweet humor, and characters who face life head-on, this is the perfect book to curl up with!

~ Karin Kaufman, author of The Witch Tree

 

 Amanda Stephan is just a normal, everyday country girl. She resides near Columbia, TN with her husband and children, three cats, one dog, and multiple roosters that roost under their bedroom windows. She loves to laugh, have a good time, and read a good book. 

Out of love for her family and God, she finds writing to be an opportunity to share God’s love for others in a fun and entertaining way. Her first novel, The Price of Trust, was published in May of 2010, and her Slade series was just picked up by TreasureLine Publishing.

If you were to ask her to share one thing about herself that most people don’t know, she’d have so many to choose from that she’d probably hesitate for a moment. Not quite a recluse, she’s rather camera shy, doesn’t like to be in the spotlight, and absolutely LOVES to have her feet tickled. But she would say her most interesting accomplishment is that she laughs like Scooby Doo.        

Purchase Lonely Hearts from Amazon.com on Tuesday, November 1st, and you can win a Nook (and many other free egifts). To learn more details, to go to Books by Amanda