Lyn Cote's Blog, page 112

First Page-Wyoming Lawman by Author Victoria Bylin

FROM "WYOMING LAWMAN"

By Victoria Bylin

Chapter One

Cheyenne, Wyoming

October 1875

Pearl Oliver stepped out of the carriage in front of Dryer's Hotel and glanced down the boardwalk in search of her cousin. Instead of spotting Carrie, she saw a little girl with hair as pale as her own. Loose and wisping around the child's face, it glinted white in the sun. Pearl's mother had told her daughter that a woman's hair was her crowning glory. Pearl knew from experience it could also be a curse.

She turned back to the carriage intending to lift her son from her father's arms. Before he could hand the baby to her, she heard an excited cry.

"Mama!"

Expecting to see another mother, she looked back at the little girl. What she saw stopped her heart. The child, with her pinafore flapping and a rag doll hooked in her elbow, was charging across the street. Behind her, Pearl saw a freight wagon about to make the turn. The girl hadn't looked before stepping off the boardwalk, and the driver wouldn't see her until he rounded the corner.

"Stop!" Pearl cried.

The girl ran faster . . ."

Wow, now that's a beginning that's hard to put down! I've never read any of Victoria's books but this one has caught my eye!

Have you tried any Love Inspired Historicals? Next month the line increases from 2 titles a month to FOUR! Here's the link to join the monthly book club
https://offers.eharlequin.com/index.asp?code=E7X7-

or call 1-800-873-8635
7am-11pm EST
You get 2 free books for trying the club for a month! (This might be a great Christmas present for someone.)-Lyn

For more info:
website: www.victoriabylin.com facebook: http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=100001287093699 amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Wyoming-Lawman-Love-Inspired-Historical/dp/0373828462/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1289882126&sr=1-1

Who are you thankful for? Would you like to win an autographed book for them?

December is coming--in case you didn't know. GRIN When they start talking about the day after Thanksgiving as Black Friday, we know that Christmas is coming. (Or at least the retail side of the holiday.)

Her Healing Ways, the final book in my Gabriel Sisters series for Love Inspired Historical will be released the second week of December. And I want to give a few copies away!

Lyn Cote's Books

Promote Your Page Too

Here's the badge or link to my new Facebook LIKE page, "Lyn Cote's Books."

Don't ask me why it say "elcome" instead of Welcome. Some little imp is in there playing around. But if you want to keep up with my books on Facebook, just click the badge above and give me the thumbs up!

Now my question is--who would you like to give an autographed copy of Her Healing Ways to and why?

Please leave a comment either today or Friday through Sunday, Nov. 28th. And I'll enter all the names into a drawing. I'll send autographed copies of Her Healing Ways, one each to two different people whom two someones nominate. That means you can nominate more than one person but I'll be choosing one winner from two different people who leave comments. Hope that's as clear as turkey gravy!

So leave a comment with their first name and why you are nominating them.

Don't forget to leave your email address written thus: l(dot)cote(at)juno(dot)com. OK?

Who are you thankful for? And do you want to thank them here?

December is coming--in case you didn't know. When they start talking about the day after Thanksgiving as Black Friday, we know that Christmas is coming. (Or at least the retail side of the holiday.)

Her Healing Ways, the final book in my Gabriel Sisters series for Love Inspired Historical will be released the second week of December.

Lyn Cote's Books

Promote Your Page Too

Here's the badge or link to my new Facebook LIKE page, "Lyn Cote's Books."

Don't ask me why it say "elcome" instead of Welcome. Some little imp is in there playing around. But if you want to keep up with my books on Facebook, just click the badge above and give me the thumbs up!

Now my question is--who would you like to give an autographed copy of Her Healing Ways to and why?

Please leave a comment either today or Friday through Sunday, Nov. 28th. And I'll enter all the names into a drawing. I'll send autographed copies of Her Healing Ways, one each to two different people whom two someones nominate. That means you can nominate more than one person but I'll be choosing one winner from two people who leave comments. Hope that's as clear as turkey gravy!

So leave a comment with their first name and why you are nominating them. Don't forget to leave your email address written thus: l(dot)cote(at)juno(dot)com. OK?

Author Donita K Paul & How a Strong Woman Handles Poisonous People

My guest today is Author Donita K Paul who writes both fantasy and romance. Today's she talking about her latest romance, Two Tickets for the Christmas Ball. Here's Donita:

"The main character in this book is Cora Crowder. She has some very compelling needs to remain in control and an inclination to second guess herself. It is very important to her that she does things the correct way. She became a Christian in college and escaped her family life by moving far away.

I have encountered Christians who believe they are responsible for the spiritual health of their families and allow their families to diminish the fruit of the Spirit through criticism and manipulation. There comes a point when being a strong woman means being willing to walk away from people who are scoffers.

They will not listen to the Holy Spirit and have no interest in changing. They are content to continue in the current relationship even though it is poisonous. The strong woman realizes that the poison stifles her ability to serve the Lord, and the family is damaged by the poison as well. People who have the opportunity to hurt others suffer continually hardening of their hearts.

Knowing when to bail out and when to stay requires a lot of prayer. In the Bible we see times when Paul remained in a hostile city and got stoned. But there were times when he escaped over a wall in a basket. With relationships that are stagnant and harmful, it would be better to walk away. It would be better to pray for the people from a distance, and when a door opens, be willing minister without bitterness.

Cora struggled to make the decisions that would allow her to grow and also allow a more healthy relationship to develop with her non-believing family. Books have been written about tough love and setting boundaries. Cora is an example of a woman willing to do what it takes to live in God's will."--Donita

Donita, you are so right. Sometimes the hardest but best thing to do is walk away. A strong woman can't change those around her. But she can guard herself from those who want to destroy her and her witness. Thanks for sharing this with us!--Lyn

If you missed reading the first page of this book, click here.
For more info, visit
www.donitakpaul.com
www.dragonandturtle.com
http://donitakpaul.blogspot.com/ This one is the OLD Blog where she shares books by my fellow authors. Other Literary Dabblings.
http://awriterwritessometimes.blogspot.com/

Author Amy L Harden & If It's Not All About Me....

The TRUTH about I AM…

God has been wooing me with simple TRUTHS all of my life.

He has blessed me greatly throughout, giving me a mother and father, a home circumstance that could be portrayed as quite "Beaver Cleaver"….a circumstance that this proud human almost lost through her selfishness, pride and resistance to the molding and refining fire the Almighty perpetually thrust her in. My stubbornness and resistance to God's plan has not only frustrated my parents and siblings; my husband, children and friends…but the Father, Himself. I have visions of Him slapping his forehead, shaking His head in disbelief or dissatisfaction; and at times picking up a 2x4 with my name on it to smack me across the back of my head.

I am a stubborn child!

My Aunt Muriel read me a story when I was child called "Pando Nombus"; a story about a boy who didn't use his common sense. He innocently went about his day trying his best, but not quite getting it right. After each failed task, his mother would reprimand him saying, "Pando Nombus, PANDO NOMBUS! Ain't ya got the sense you born with?!" I believe God would say this over and over again to me…"Amy…AMY!! Ain't you got the sense you were born with…" The only thing God would add is…"It's not about YOU, dear one…It's about ME!"

I am innocent and…sometimes…a naive child!

My confirmation scripture was: "And surely I am with you always, even unto the end of the age." Matt 28: 20 (KJV)

When I was a teen my greatest FEAR was being alone or dying. I went through a period of time when I was scared to fall asleep at night. After several sleepless nights, my father handed me my Bible; telling me that the words would comfort and give strength…holding off the fear. He read the scripture in Matthew reassuring me that this is Christ's eternal promise to all of us! I fell asleep that night…waking rested and knowing the TRUTH of Christ's promise.

I have turned my back on the Father more than once during my life.

When in college, I was tempted and acted badly resulting in guilt and shame…the burden so heavy that I attempted to take my life. I am saved!

My first marriage, I was abused. I am saved!

I was told I would never have children. I am a mother of five.

I shook my fist at God when my father died. I am comforted.

I turned my back on my family and marriage resisting the changes in my mid-life season. I ran…escaped…squandered money and rolled with pigs. God pursued me…brought me home…

I am saved!

While lost and walking through the valley of shadow, God called me to help those who are also lost during these times. He revealed my purpose.

I am an undeserving child the Father continues to forgive. My strength and bravery is NOT my own…God is my strength…Christ is who makes me brave.

It is not about me…it is ALL about Him!

I humbly know the simple TRUTH…He blesses me with His presence always.

I am saved!

Note: I hope to reveal these lessons in all my blogs, web sites, forums and social networking and ultimately the characters in my novels when released. My characters and books, fiction or non-fiction are studies in how all humans need a relationship with the Father...that He is present even when we don't acknowledge His presence....or even deny His existence.

Please go to http://womeninmlc.com to find my blogs, links to my forums and other mid-life blogs.

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AmyLHarden

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Amy-L-Harden/408518821256 http://www.facebook.com/pages/Women-in-MLC/120603961330116

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/shepherdess56

Thanks, Amy. I think in spirit, I may be your twin! Anybody else? --Lyn

Author Amy J Harden & If It's Not All About Me....

The TRUTH about I AM…

God has been wooing me with simple TRUTHS all of my life.

He has blessed me greatly throughout, giving me a mother and father, a home circumstance that could be portrayed as quite "Beaver Cleaver"….a circumstance that this proud human almost lost through her selfishness, pride and resistance to the molding and refining fire the Almighty perpetually thrust her in. My stubbornness and resistance to God's plan has not only frustrated my parents and siblings; my husband, children and friends…but the Father, Himself. I have visions of Him slapping his forehead, shaking His head in disbelief or dissatisfaction; and at times picking up a 2x4 with my name on it to smack me across the back of my head.

I am a stubborn child!

My Aunt Muriel read me a story when I was child called "Pando Nombus"; a story about a boy who didn't use his common sense. He innocently went about his day trying his best, but not quite getting it right. After each failed task, his mother would reprimand him saying, "Pando Nombus, PANDO NOMBUS! Ain't ya got the sense you born with?!" I believe God would say this over and over again to me…"Amy…AMY!! Ain't you got the sense you were born with…" The only thing God would add is…"It's not about YOU, dear one…It's about ME!"

I am innocent and…sometimes…a naive child!

My confirmation scripture was: "And surely I am with you always, even unto the end of the age." Matt 28: 20 (KJV)

When I was a teen my greatest FEAR was being alone or dying. I went through a period of time when I was scared to fall asleep at night. After several sleepless nights, my father handed me my Bible; telling me that the words would comfort and give strength…holding off the fear. He read the scripture in Matthew reassuring me that this is Christ's eternal promise to all of us! I fell asleep that night…waking rested and knowing the TRUTH of Christ's promise.

I have turned my back on the Father more than once during my life.

When in college, I was tempted and acted badly resulting in guilt and shame…the burden so heavy that I attempted to take my life. I am saved!

My first marriage, I was abused. I am saved!

I was told I would never have children. I am a mother of five.

I shook my fist at God when my father died. I am comforted.

I turned my back on my family and marriage resisting the changes in my mid-life season. I ran…escaped…squandered money and rolled with pigs. God pursued me…brought me home…

I am saved!

While lost and walking through the valley of shadow, God called me to help those who are also lost during these times. He revealed my purpose.

I am an undeserving child the Father continues to forgive. My strength and bravery is NOT my own…God is my strength…Christ is who makes me brave.

It is not about me…it is ALL about Him!

I humbly know the simple TRUTH…He blesses me with His presence always.

I am saved!

Note: I hope to reveal these lessons in all my blogs, web sites, forums and social networking and ultimately the characters in my novels when released. My characters and books, fiction or non-fiction are studies in how all humans need a relationship with the Father...that He is present even when we don't acknowledge His presence....or even deny His existence.

Please go to http://womeninmlc.com to find my blogs, links to my forums and other mid-life blogs.

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AmyLHarden

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Amy-L-Harden/408518821256 http://www.facebook.com/pages/Women-in-MLC/120603961330116

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/shepherdess56

Thanks, Amy. I think in spirit, I may be your twin! Anybody else? --Lyn

First Page-Prairie Courtship by Author Dorothy Clark

Independence, Missouri

April, 1841

"Break camp!"

That was not Josiah Blake's voice. Emma Allen turned in the direction of the barked order, stiffened at sight of an imposing figure atop a roan with distinctive spots on its hindquarters. So the autocratic Mr. Thatcher had returned to take command. She had hoped his absence since their arrival at Independence had meant he would not be leading the wagon train after all.

Brass buttons on the front of the once dark blue tunic that stretched across the ex-soldier's shoulders gleamed dully in the early morning light. Pants of lighter blue fabric skimmed over his long legs and disappeared into the knee-high, black boots jammed into his stirrups. He rode forward, began to wend his way through the wagons scattered over the field.

Emma frowned and stepped out of sight at the back of the wagon. Mr. Thatcher did not need to wear the faded blue cavalry uniform to remind people he had been a military officer. It was in his bearing. And in the penetrating gaze of the bright blue eyes that peered out from beneath his broad-brimmed hat. Eyes that looked straight at a person, noticed everything about her—including a lace-trimmed silk gown that was inappropriate garb for an emigrant. Eyes that had unfairly impaled her on their spike of disapproval at that first meeting in St. Louis when he had simply assumed she was William's wife and would be accompanying him on the journey to Oregon country—and judged her accordingly. Had the man bothered to ask, she would have informed him William was her brother and that she was not traveling with the train.

Not then.

But that was before everything in their lives had turned upside down."

Links:
dorothyjclark@hotmail.com
www.dorothyjclark.com

Author Jenness Walker & Tragedies--What to Do?

My guest today is Author Jenness Walker who will share her co-author's tragedies (yes, not just one) and how she copes. Do you think she's right?

"The first time I handed my one-sheet outline for Bliss to an editor, the first comment I received was not on the story. Instead it was something like, "Your co-author really lived through a plane crash?" Yes. Into a soybean field in Santa Claus, GA. Not to mention surviving multiple accidents with cars (including falling out of one), having her house burn down, and finding the willpower to leave what was basically a cult, even if it might cost Tracy her relationship with some family members.

Part of being a strong woman, I believe, is taking the tragedies that come into your life and instead of despairing, allowing them to draw you closer to Christ. To lean on Him to find your strength. Tracy does that every day, while raising a special needs child, dealing with unfair criticism, and facing the many other trials that come her way. She also manages to find the humor in each circumstance. This quality in Tracy comes out in our work—humor, mixed in with learning more about God and finding Him during life's journey, no matter where it may take you.

I'm honored to co-author with Tracy for so many reasons, a big one being that I have had the chance to get to know her better. Of course, it's also handy to keep her around since I only need her bio to catch an editor's attention."-- J

Do you agree with Jenness about what she believes about strength? Why do we have tragedies? Have you ever felt true despair?--Lyn

For more about Jenness and her books, drop by

www.tandjbooks.com www.jennesswalker.com www.jennesswalker.blogspot.com

Book Monday-Author Cindy Woodsmall & The Sound of Sleigh Bells

Today's book is Author Cindy Woodsmall's reissue of The Sound of Sleigh Bells. Sounds like a lovely story!

The Sound of Sleigh Bells

Beth Hertzler works alongside her beloved Aunt Lizzy in their dry goods store, and serving as contact of sorts between Amish craftsmen and Englischers who want to sell the Plain people's wares. But remorse and loneliness still echo in her heart everyday as she still wears the dark garb, indicating mourning of her fiancé. When she discovers a large, intricately carved scene of Amish children playing in the snow, something deep inside Beth's soul responds and she wants to help the unknown artist find homes for his work–including Lizzy's dry goods store. But she doesn't know if her bishop will approve of the gorgeous carving or deem it idolatry.

Lizzy sees the changes in her niece when Beth shows her the woodworking, and after Lizzy hunts down Jonah, the artist, she is all the more determined that Beth meets this man with the hands that create healing art. But it's not that simple–will Lizzy's elaborate plan to reintroduce her niece to love work? Will Jonah be able to offer Beth the sleigh ride she's always dreamed of and a second chance at real love–or just more heartbreak?

2010 Inspirational Readers Choice Contest winner
CBA and ECPA Bestseller

To read the first chapter and/or for purchasing info, go to http://www.cindywoodsmall.com/books/sound-of-sleigh-bells_excerpt.php

Bio ~

Cindy Woodsmall is a New York Times best-selling author whose connection with the Amish community has been featured on ABC Nightline and on the front page of the Wall Street Journal.

She is also a veteran homeschool mom who no longer holds that position. As her children progressed in age, her desire to write grew stronger. After working through reservations whether this desire was something she should pursue, she began her writing journey. Her husband was her staunchest supporter as she aimed for what seemed impossible.

To visit Cindy's Web site, go to http://www.cindywoodsmall.com

For information on how to receive free bookmarks and autographed bookplates, go to http://www.cindywoodsmall.com/bookplates.php

Debut Author Nicole Zoltack & Women Knights-for real

My guest author today is Nicole Zoltack, a very young woman to already be a published author! I met Nicole on GoodReads where I noticed her book which struck me as a perfect fit for my blog theme. Here's Nicole:

"Aislinn, the heroine in Woman of Honor, is a lot like Queen Esther. Queen Esther loved her people, the Jews. When an evil man plotted the death of her cousin and the rest of her people, Queen Esther asked the Lord for courage and sought an audience with her husband even though going before the king uninvited could mean death. The king did not kill her, listened to her, and spared her people. Esther was a woman of faith, of goodness, devotion and courage. In short, she was a woman of honor.

My heroine, Aislinn, is also a brave woman, ready to lay down her life for her kingdom. When her older brother, a knight, died, Aislinn wanted to step outside the norm of society and asked her king for a chance to take her brother's place and to train as a knight. The king was struck by her unusual request and granted Aislinn a probationary period. Aislinn proved herself time and again. Aislinn is willing to give up everything for her kingdom – her childhood, her life, even her heart. When Aislinn petitions the king, she has history on her side, real history.

In the 1100s, females protected and guarded their small town in Spain from Moor attack. These brave women were knighted and a new order formed – the Order of the Hatchet. Called dames, these female knights were given many boons including precedence over men in assemblies and exemption from taxes. Aislinn mentions these women when she asks to become the first lady knight in the land.

I first learned about the Order of the Hatchet while doing research on female knights in the Middle Ages. The story of courageous women who fought seasoned warriors to defend their homeland struck a chord within me, and I knew I would one day write a story about a female knight, strong in mind, body, sword and faith. Woman of Honor is that story. Woman of Honor: Aislinn of Bairbhe dreams of becoming a lady knight to honor the death of her fallen brother. To her mother's horror, King Patrick grants Aislinn's wish and she begins her long years of training.

Despite the mockery of the other pages, and the disdain of Prince Caelan who also trains to be a knight, Aislinn commits herself to her dreams and embarks on a journey of self-discovery and bravery. Through the years, Aislinn and Caelan grow from sparring classmates to good friends. They both know that someday Caelan will marry for the sake of the kingdom, but even that cannot keep them from falling in love.

The threat of war with the Speicans is a constant threat, and one that grows more frightening as she and Caelan train toward their eventual knighthood. Aislinn has committed herself to serving Arnhem, and has promised herself as King's Champion when Caelan claims the throne. She is willing to give up everything... her childhood, her life, even her heart for Arnhem. No matter the pain it brings."--Nicole

Thanks, Nicole. Your book sounds like a winner and I wish you every success!--Lyn

Nicole's website: http://www.NicoleZoltack.com

Nicole's blog: http://NicoleZoltack.blogspot.com

Nicole's author page at Desert Breeze: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-template/NicoleZoltack/Page.bok

Woman of Honor page at Desert Breeze http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-58/%3Ci%3EKingdom-of-Arnhem-Book/Detail.bo k