There’s tons of book giveaways, free books, and other contests out there to take advantage of so I’m going to tell you about some of them from time to time. Check out:
Amanda Cabot’s book, Summer of Promise is free on Amazon. Here’s the link:
Laura V Hilton has a giveaway on her blog for one of Irene Hannon’s books:
http://lighthouse-academy.blogspot.com/2015/07/interview-with-irene-hannon-and-giveaway.html
Robin Patchen http://amzn.to/1CTVvbE
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Everyone love a hero, right? But what makes a hero? I’m sure there are many different ways to define or describe a hero, but I believe a hero is someone who puts themselves out for someone else without any expectation of getting a “reward” whatever it might be.
In Deception, Patti must unravel the disappearance of her twin sister, in spite of the fact that she feels her sister ruined her life. She chooses to do the right thing. That’s what makes a hero!
In Betrayed, Maria thinks her nightmare is over until her husband calls–her supposedly dead husband. Terrified for her daughter’s safety, she flees. Then she hears another child is missing. Thinking her “dead” husband could be responsible, she must make a choice to hide or to help. She chooses to do the right thing. That’s what make a hero!
In Redemption, Jamie puts her own life in danger to help a friend find her missing child in spite of the danger to herself. That’s what makes a hero!
In real life, we aren’t usually faced with these types of choices but…
We can choose to do the right thing when no one is looking.
We can choose to be kind in the face of another’s anger.
We can choose to do our best in whatever job we find ourselves.
That’s what makes a hero!
What about you–what do you think makes a hero?
UNTIL NEXT TIME…GOD BLESS & GOOD READING!
There’s tons of book giveaways, free books, and other contests out there to take advantage of so I’m going to tell you about them as I discover them.Check out these:
Until next time…GOD BLESS & GOOD READING!
Who doesn’t want to be a champion, especially on this Super Bowl Sunday, right?
My preacher had a great sermon today so I thought I’d share the highlights. So thanks, Tom, for inspiring this post. He entitled it SUPER BOWL CHRISTIANS. Don’t you love the title and wouldn’t we all love to be a Super Bowl Christian. Being a Super Bowl Christian might mean different things to different people but there’s a few things we all need to do if we want to become one.
DESIRE: You can’t win the game if you don’t care about it. Psalm 42: 1 says, As the deer pants for the streams of water so my soul pants for you, O God” To be a Super Bowl Christian, we should desire a relationship with God above all else.
DISCIPLINE: To be all that we can be, we must endure a little discipline in life, sometimes self-displine but also from others. (Just ask the Army!) Discipline is not a bad thing. Hebrews 12: 7 tells us, “Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father.” To be a Super Bowl Christian, we must accept and learn from the discipline, not be made angry, frustrated, or bitter.
DETERMINATION: This step is about focus and commitment. Lots of people start lots of things every day, but it takes determination to finish. Proverbs 24: 16 says it all, “For though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again.” To be a Super Bowl Christian, you’ve got to get back in the game no matter how many times you fall.
DENIAL: This is a painful one–because it’s about self-denial.Something we’re not very good at these days. We want what we want when we want it, and we don’t want to sacrifice anything to get it. .Paul tells us in Romans 12: 1, ” Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God–this is your spiritual act of worship.” Each time we make a sacrifice as we run our race, we move a little closer to the goal line. To be a Super Bowl Christian, you must be willing to sacrifce.
DISTINCTION If we follow the other four steps to the best of our ability, then we will have completed the race we were given to run. We will live a life of excellence, a life pleasing to God. As Paul said in Phillipians 3:14, “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”. And we, too, can say we are a Super Bowl Christian.
Can you even begin to imagine what your life might be like if you practice these four steps consistently and to the best of your ability in your writing life as well (or whatever dream you are pursuing)?
You might start that story you’ve been wanting to write.
You might finish that story that’s been sitting dormant for so long.
You might edit, revise, and polish so that it’s ready to submit.
And you might just obtain that illusive goal of being a published writer.
Now that I’m published I still want to write the best story I can. My writing is my ministry, and because of that I want to do it as well as I can. To be a Super Bowl Champion means to live the life of excellence God calls each of us to live.
Any other ideas what we need to do to live a life of excellence?
UNTIL NEXT TIME…GOD BLESS & GOOD READING!
It’s Wednesday so that means time for another bit of Writerly Wisdom. And it’s the last Wednesday of the year! I don’t know about you but that’s a bit of a shock. I don’t know where the time went. Anyway, it being the last day of the year, I thought this would be great advice:
TAKE A BREAK!
Wise writers know that taking a break from your writing from time to time can do wonders for the story. Something magical happens when we take a break. As I focus on other things, little gems wander into my mind that will improve the story. Sometimes, even clarify what the real story is–not the plot but the spiritual truth of the story.
This holds true in life as well. Most of us are way too over committed to all sorts of things. Our family, our careers, our community, our church. We’re so busy running around and doing that our mind goes on overload. And just as a washing machine malfunctions when it’s overloaded, the same can happen with out minds.
That’s when it’s time to TAKE A BREAK.
Relax, Rejuvenate, and Remember what life is really about.
That’s it for this year! Wishing you a happy and blessed 2015!
UNTIL NEXT TIME…GOD BLESS & GOOD READING!
Thanksgiving is right around the corner and you know that that means. Then it will officially be the CHRISTMAS season. But as far as I’m concerned it already is. I’m waiting for my husband to start dragging up the Christmas trees. Last year we had twelve. Not sure if we’ll put that many up this year. Anyway a few years ago, THE CHRISTMAS STALKING was released but it’s still a great story to help put you in the Christmas mood.
Here’s the prologue that was cut but I still love it so I’m sharing it here. By the way, it’s still one of my very favorite covers.
The Christmas Stalking Prologue
Her hand froze mid-air as she reached for the door knob. Her pulse ramped up. Destiny Martin had always considered herself brave, but she’d been wrong.
The knock came again.
“Destiny, I can’t get in. Type in the security code so you can open the door.”
Recognizing the voice, she let out a breath. She giggled at the thought of locking her manager out of his own apartment.
Careful to stay out of sight in case anyone was watching, she opened the door. Mark walked in, his hands full of mail, packages, and grocery bags. She slammed the door shut, hoping no one had seen her in that brief second.
“How’re you feeling, sweetikins?” One of the bags fell from Mark’s grasp.
Bending down, she retrieved it. “Sad and lonely. Just like my songs.”
“Why? I’m here and you’ve got tons of friends. Not to mention the millions—no billions of fans.”
She gave him a look—the same one her teachers used when she’d told them she would be a famous country music star someday. “Billions? I don’t think so. Let’s not get carried away.”
Mark shrugged. “Okay. Millions.”
“They love Destiny not me.” She sighed. “They have no idea who I am. I’m not even sure Holly Stone exists anymore.”
Mark winked. “She does and I like her just fine. You’ve got the holiday blues.”
She plopped on his sofa. “Is it any wonder? I’m stuck here and can’t even go outside. Not that it matters, it still wouldn’t feel like Christmas.” Nashville might be all decked out in Christmas cheer but it just wasn’t cold enough. Christmas just wasn’t Christmas without some snow.
“If you don’t like it here, pick another place.” Mark’s voice was quiet.
She’d hurt his feelings. She grinned. “I didn’t mean it like that, sweetikins. Of course, I love being here with you. You’re so kind to let me stay here.” Now that her own home wasn’t so safe.
“Holidays can be tough.”
She set the bag on the coffee table. Not for him. He didn’t spend every Christmas alone, pretending to be busy. “How am I supposed to live my life if I’m hiding in your condo? Like I’m the one who did something wrong. Why can’t they find this guy?”
“Give them time.”
She turned toward him, hands on her hips. Her voice broke. “I’m so tired of all of this… of imposing on you… of not being in my home. But most of all, I’m tired of being afraid.”
“I know it’s tough, but you’re safe here. I can find you a nicer place if you want. I know this isn’t the luxury you’re used to.”
Mark wasn’t getting it. “Don’t be ridiculous, your condo is wonderful. More amenities and gadgets than any one person would ever need. But I’m not used to being cooped up all the time.”
“It won’t be much longer, sweetikins. I promise.”
“You’re right. I have no intention of missing the concert. I’ve never missed one, and I’m not about to start. Mr. Psycho Stalker or not. Especially since this is for charity.”
“It’s not—”
She held up a hand. “It’s not open for debate. I’m doing that concert and that’s final. My life. My choice.”
“I know but—”
“I’m done with this discussion.” Turning up her southern accent, she smiled. “Whatdjabringme, sweetikins?” She grabbed at the bags in his hands.
He laughed as he handed one to her. “A few things. I stopped by your house for your mail, and then went to the store for your favorite snacks.”
“Oooh, sounds good. I hope you stopped at that deli with the great shrimp dip.”
“You know I did. You can check out the mail while I put the food away.”
“I love how you spoil me. Besides the food in your fridge is disgusting.”
“That hurts. It really does. I share my home with you. And all you do is hurt me. Not very nice.” He shook his head with feigned sadness.
“Whatever. Let me see my mail.”
He pointed at the plastic grocery bag filled with mail on the coffee table and continued to the kitchen with the grocery bags. “Oh, and that package is for you, too.”
Ignoring the mail, she picked up the box. “Probably a Christmas present from one of my billions of adoring fans.” She sat down and picked it up. “Is it safe?”
“Security said it was fine. No bomb.”
She shook her head. “Can you believe you even said those words? The guy’s an overzealous fan, he’s not going to hurt me.”
He poked his head out from the kitchen. “Tell that to John Lennon, sweetikins.”
Her stomach somersaulted. “I’m done with Mr. Psycho Stalker controlling my life. I’ve been thinking.”
Mark walked out of the kitchen. “I do not like the sound of that. Whenever you say that, it always means more work for me.”
She picked at the tape on the brown wrapped package. “Not this time.”
“What’s your idea?”
“After the concert, Destiny is going to disappear. About time I take a vacation. It’s been a long time since I had one. And you can take one, too.”
Instead of a smile, worry lines appeared on Mark’s forehead. “Where are you going?”
She shook her head. “I’m not even saying the destination out loud. That way no one can follow me.”
Mark stared at her. “That’s not a good idea. I need to know where you are.”
“Why?”
“Because I always know where you are. It’s my job and besides I’ll miss you.”
Uh-oh, she didn’t like the sounds of that. Mark was her manager and friend—nothing more. They’d been spending too much time together. Definitely time for a change.
She smiled. “Yeah, right. You must be so tired of me cramping your style and besides, you deserve a vacation, too. You work—”
Mark’s eyes darkened, his voice firm. “I don’t want a vacation. I want to keep you safe. And I can’t do that if I don’t know where you are.”
“It’s a great idea and you know it. You’re just grumpy you didn’t think of it first.”
Mark walked out of the kitchen. “Don’t you trust me?”
“Of course I do, but I’m still not telling you.” She tore open the wrapping on the box in her lap. It revealed a gift box with boughs of dark green holly and bright red berries. “Do you think someone remembered my real name is Holly?”
She lifted up the box lid. Screaming, she jumped up.
A dead cat rolled out.
And that’s how Destiny’s story started. What do you think?
UNTIL NEXT TIME…GOD BLESS & GOOD READING!
It’s ME Monday and so that means I’m allowed to talk about me. Actually, I’m allowed to talk about me whenever I want–it’s my blog! But I do try to limit it to Mondays since I don’t believe the world revolves around me.
Anyway, I thought it was time to do a little update.
First, let’s talk about my health. Mostly good news in that area. I had an MRI a few weeks ago and the doctors say the brain tumors are stable and shouldn’t be causing any problems. I’m feeling stronger and healthier than I have since I got sick. I can still hear in my one ear! Not the best I’ve ever heard but usable in most situations–not all. So, thumbs up on my health. It feels so good to feel so good!
On the writing front, I have no books scheduled for release the rest of this year but I have several projects I’m working on. My publisher did lower the price on some of my older books on Amazon…so if you haven’t bought them, this is a good time to do so. Right now, The Christmas Stalking is priced at 99 cents! What a bargain!
The holiday season is right around the corner so life’s about to get craz…I mean busy for most of us. Wishing you a calm and peaceful and loving holiday season.
UNTIL NEXT TIME…GOD BLESS & GOOD READING!
I’m thrilled (and a little sad) to announce the release of the third and final book in my Sisters by Choice series—REDEMPTION on September 18. Well, probably last. I do have an idea for a fourth and final book rattling around in my brain, but it’s only an idea at the moment. Who knows if it will grow into a book?
Anyway…back to REDEMPTION.
Dictionary.com defines redemption as an act of atoning for a fault or a mistake; deliverance or rescue; deliverance from sin; salvation; atonement for guilt.
Wow! As I look at those definitions, I realize REDEMPTION is full of all sorts of redemption. No wonder that’s the title I chose.
The story begins with Patti not understanding why her twin, Jamie, continues to place herself in serious jeopardy time and time again. Jamie doesn’t understand either. Only that she needs to help others if and when she can no matter the danger to herself.
As the writer I know why, and I’ll share the secret with you. And don’t worry—I’m not spilling any secrets that will ruin the book for you!
Jamie is ashamed of things she’s done in her past. As a result she feels God can’t love her the way she is. So she seeks redemption by putting herself in dangerous situations to help other people.
But the redemption part of the story doesn’t stop there. Enrique, the tall, dark, and handsome FBI agent seeks redemption as well. From Jamie.
Then there’s the bartender Jamie meets on her quest to find a friend’s missing child. He’s trying to overcome a lifetime of criminal acts. More redemption.
And then there’s the father of the kidnapped child—who is the kidnapper! Talk about needing redemption.
Like I said, no wonder this book is named REDEMPTION.
To celebrate the release of REDEMPTION, I’m giving away a $25 Amazon Gift Card. But wait…there’s more! I always feel bad for the people who enter the contest but don’t win. So I’m also going to pick FIVE more lucky names to win a $5 Amazon Gift Card. Just the right amount to buy REDEMPTION! Just kidding, the winners can use it to buy whatever they wish. Contest ends October 18th!
Leave a comment here and you’ll be entered in the contest! Easy Peasy!
UNTIL NEXT TIME…GOD BLESS & GOOD READING!
Fridays are usually for my friends but I hate to get in a rut so… today is just for fun. In July, DEADLY COMMUNICATIONS was released. It features a speech pathologist who gets a little too involved with her clients! Anyway…I’ve been writing for 19 years and Deadly Communications was my first effort of blending my real life job with my writing.
Why is that?
Because I know just how boring being a speech pathologist can be. Now don’t get me wrong, I loved my job and I miss it– a lot! But the reality of the job is it can be a bit repetitious to say the least. I’ve listened to more Ss and Rs than you can even imagine.
So it was hard for me to imagine a story with a speech pathologist that could be exciting and interesting to readers. Sure I found it super exciting when I heard a child say “Sally sells seashells by the seashore.” perfectly–but that’s me.
Anyway, one day the story popped into my head. I now have 3 Deadly Communications mysteries written. The second will be released sometime next year. So this was a long way of getting to my point.
There are jobs that lend themselves to suspense and mystery stories, such as police officers, private investigators, even reporters. But a speech pathologist? The thing is I’m not a police officer, a private investigator or a reporter. But I’m none of those things so when I use those characters I have to go light on the job aspect but I didn’t have to do that with DEADLY COMMUNICATIONS.
I was able to write my therapy scenses with complete confidence that it was realistic.
Let’s have some fun!
I’d love to hear your scenario for your job or someone else’s along with a suspense scenario for it.
Example: A speech pathologist who gets too involved with her clients finds herself facing a kidnapper without any backup or a gun!
So, what’s your job and the suspense scenario to go with it?
UNTIL NEXT TIME…GOD BLESS & GOOD READING!
I had to turn off the TV set a few minutes ago. All the morning shows are talking about the death of Robin Williams. After sitting there in tears watching, I decided to find something else to do. It’s just too sad!
And unlike the TV commentators, I do want to mourn Robin Williams’ death. They’re all talking about celebrating his life rather than focusing on his death, but…I DISAGREE…I DISAGREE…I DISAGREE!! We do need to talk about his death and the fact that he chose to die. To me, that is what’s so sad.
In spite of his wealth, he chose to die.
In spite of his fame, he chose to die.
In spite of being loved by his family and the world, he chose to die.
There is a lesson to be learned in Robin Williams’ death and all the other celebrities who make that same choice. Being famous and wealthy will not bring real peace and joy to a person’s life. And yet, everybody wants to be rich and famous these days. In fact many, many people are willing to do most anything to become a celebrity.
So what’s the lesson to be learned?
That there is only ONE path to contentment, peace, and joy.
And that path is a relationship with God through His only begotten Son, Jesus.
Tiaras & Tennis Shoes 