Kellyn Roth's Blog: Kellyn Roth, Author, page 6

My Blog & Website Are Updated!

Hello folks!

Look around you! You’re looking at a brand-new website!

I mean, it’s still the same old website, in some ways, but updated by Plethora Creative! They did a fantastic job updating the website, and it looks sooo good! If you want, take a moment to just browse around and see all the pretties.

I especially love the home page! But the book pages are great, too, as are the all the other pages. Definitely recommend Plethora Creative for your web design needs. They did the Wild Blue Wonder Press website, too.

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The Random Thoughts Portion of the Post

As you can see, I updated my author photos while I was at it.

Snuck in a couple varieties:

All taken by Matthew at our latest Oregon Coast trip. Because, you know, the Peter Iredale obviously crashed to provide me with a photo op. (Also, Fort Columbia was just THERE.)

ANYWAYS.

It’s coming up on Thanksgiving (… very rapidly … tomorrow), and that’s always a FUN time of the year for me (which I’m going to talk more about in further blog posts – and don’t worry, it’s not family drama; it’s Kell-specific drama), so onward and upward, as they say.

You’ll have to comment below and tell me what you’re doing for Thanksgiving. We’re going to my parents this year (we swap years – Matthew’s parents will be next year), and it should be pretty standard Christmas stuff. I’m going to attempt to wear a dress, meaning I will have worn a dress once since August.

Excellent. I am woman.

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Future Posts ~ Coming Soon!

For the sake of accountability, I decided to tell you what my plans for the next couple weeks are. Because, you know, it would be helpful for me to not just add to my bookmarks tab of “projects” every time I write a blog post. I actually need to edit and publish them.

So let’s talk about what we’re doing next!

Also, I will probably get a post out sometime this weekend to talk about the Black Friday Book Sale, but you know, that’s not exciting. I mean, it is, but not in the sense that most of you don’t know at least something about it. A lot of my books will be going on sale, though! And I’ll also let y’all know if I have options open for Christmas gifts or such, but that’s rather unlikely this year.

The Apostle Paul & Speaking to Your Audience as a Christian Writer

I promise it’ll make sense once I post it on 11/29/2023

NaNoWriMo 2023, the Christmas Season, and Kell’s Life

To be published on 12/06/2023. This is just a life update with a few added things I don’t think I’ve talked about on here too much. (Plus, I wanted to say SOMETHING about NaNo, which is almost over now.)

Shifting the Focus: God-Honoring Fiction vs. Clean Fiction

Based on a post I shared to Instagram a while ago, this will go live on 12/13/2023.

A New Sort of Christmas

… in which I’ll share some musings I’ve been having about the holiday season, methinks. Though we shall see if this one doesn’t get swapped out, depending on how long I talk.

I’ll be publishing this post on 12/20/2023.

Novelists in November ~ a complete breakdown of my plans for the anthology

… will come out on 12/27/2023, ideally speaking. I know I should be publishing something Christmasy, but I didn’t want to delay it any longer, and yet, I also didn’t want to publish it this month because … I’ve been busy.

I guess technically the right way to word that would be “I did want to publish it but didn’t have time,” but meh.

Welcome to 2024 (a nd how 2023 went)

01/03/2023 will be my annual year wrapup as well as goals and plans for 2024.

After that, I do have more posts planned, but honestly, I’ll probably shift them around a time or two, so revealing them ahead of time won’t provide accountability for me so much as frustration for you.

That said, I’m hoping to be more active on this blog in the future, so we’ll see how that goes!

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As always, I’d like to remind you that my email list houses the majority of my entertainment and is the best way to keep in contact with me … and also, that I’m so close to 800 subscribers that I can taste it, so do me a favor and help me out.

There’s a special email list just for writers, too, if that’s your thing.

TTFN!

~Kell~

Are you interested in getting to know me & my books better? Join my email list!

Happy Launch Day to Amy Ullrich’s Debut, Among the Great!

Happiest of launch days to Among the Great by Amy Ullrich!

I’m so excited to share a little bit with you about Amy’s debut novel, Among the Great, which is set in medieval England around the reign of King Alfred (AD 877). Like a story I shared with you last week (Cabin Girl), it’s also somewhat reminiscent of my childhood reads, specifically when we were studying medieval history, which is what first attracted me to the story.

It’s the kind of book I wish I had a book-loving young man to pass it on to, though of course, it can be read by anyone!

About the Book

The year is AD 877, and King Alfred has succeeded in driving the marauding Danes from his kingdom – for the time being.

Edwin and his sister Edith are just beginning to enjoy their liberty when, one terrible night, their lives change forever.

Separated from one another, and caught up in the turmoil of their times, Edwin and Edith must learn to discern between truth and falsehood, friend and foe, or be swept away on a tide of treachery.

A blind bard, a lame blacksmith, and an ambitious warrior all have their role in this tale of courage and true heroism set during the reign of Alfred the Great.

To find out more about the book, buy a copy, or subscribe to the author’s email list, head over to https://amyullrich.com/!

So what do you think? Does that sound like the type of book you’d like to read?

Honestly, I really hope I can grab a copy soon and find time to sit down and read it. Y’all know how tough reading time is to find these days, but hey, we prioritize what actually matters. And reading is a thing that certainly does matter!

TTFN!

~Kell~

Are you interested in getting to know me & my books better? Join my email list!

A New Indie Novel to Check Out: Cabin Girl by E.G. Bella

Recently, E.G. Bella launched a novel called Cabin Girl. It’s so reminiscent of books that I read as a kid, and though I haven’t personally had a chance to read it yet (soon, I hope!), I really am enjoying learning more about it, and I’m loving how well-received it’s been!

So let’s talk a little bit about the book and see if I can’t convince you to read it.

Also, make sure to subscribe to her email list!

About the Book

Sickness. Sharks. Sabotage. Secrecy.

In the rolling hills of 1600’s Ireland, young Éirinn O’Connell learns all she can of medicine, struggling to care for her starving family—until the night Barbary pirates raid her village, and she’s dragged from the only home she’s ever known.

Set on a course to the slave markets of Morocco, and amidst a crew as turbulent as the ocean around her, Éirinn searches for a way home. But who can she trust? And how will she survive the Captain’s constant torment? Éirinn soon discovers the danger in trusting appearances and learns that it’s never too late for a second chance.

Even for the unlikeliest of people.

Buy on Amazon ~ Add on Goodreads

Well … what do you think? Have you decided to read it?

Before I go, because I wasn’t able to share a review myself this time, I thought I’d go ahead and share some brief reviews the author collected:

“The context was intriguing and exciting. It had me hooked on page one!” ~Skylar Bennett

“Cabin Girl is a wonderful novel, full of pirates, subterfuge, a quest for identity, and poignant redemption. A great read for anyone looking for hope, adventure, or a light in the darkness.” ~Rachel Underwood

“E. G. Bella does a superb job of crafting despicable and lovable characters. Her nuances are perfectly captivating and surprising. The story is well thought out, and the plot keeps you guessing. There are characters you will root for forever. She does a delightfully good job at keeping you guessing. I appreciate that you never fully know what the next step is. This is an up-all-night, page-turning, on-the-edge-of-your-seat work of art. She does a beautiful job of crafting faith, family, and delightful characters.” ~Sarah S. 

“Cabin Girl is among my favorite novels. E. G. Bella has done an amazing job weaving her characters, plot, and theme into an exciting adventure that showcases the power of faith in the most difficult of circumstances.” ~J. F. Michaelis 

“I loved this book, especially the interesting relationship between Éirinn and Captain Gills. Once I got started, it was very hard to put down.” ~J. A. Wood

TTFN!

~Kell~

Are you interested in getting to know me & my books better? Join my email list!

A Bird in the Snow by M.C. Kennedy | Book Spotlight & Giveaway

Hey folks! Today I’ve got another blog tour for you for a novel called A Bird in the Snow, which was written by M.C. Kennedy. You can purchase the novel here … or you can just scroll down to find all about it first!

A Bird in the Snow is the second novel in the Feyfolk Trilogy, the first being A Wolf’s Rose.

About the Novel

Title: A Bird in the Snow

Series: The Feyfolk Trilogy (Book 2)

Genre: YA Fantasy, Christian Fantasy

Release Date: September 9, 2023

Content Warnings: Mentions of pre-marital sex; mentions of abortion

Synopsis:

Can even the worst mistakes be forgiven?

Ean Cochall has lived in the wilderness for two years, providing for the needy by day and assassinating rogues by night. It’s all in pursuit of one thing: justice. So when he’s approached by a mysterious figure and asked to kill a fae accused of crimes against the Gwyns, he readily accepts.
Murrin has fled to the wilderness to hide from someone who seeks her life. She has the name of a fey who can protect her: Ean Cochall, leader of the outlaw band the Green Company. What she doesn’t know is that Ean already knows about her–and he was just hired to kill her.
As dark secrets come to light and old ghosts rise from the dead, will Ean uncover the truth? Or will his own mistakes come back to haunt him, making justice something not even he wants to achieve.

Purchase the Book: books2read.com/u/3GG5NL

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61386666-a-bird-in-the-snow

About the Author

M.C. Kennedy fell in love with fantasy at nine years old after reading The Lord of the Rings. She now strives to reflect her Creator by dreaming up fictional realms that point readers to His truths in the real world. When she’s not roaming through fanciful forests, struggling to understand Greek and Hebrew, or geeking out over one of her many fandoms, she loves to connect with readers on her website or her various social media platforms.

Find Her On …

Instagram: @mckennedy.author

Facebook: M. C. Kennedy, Author

Pinterest: M. C. Kennedy

Goodreads: M. C. Kenendy

Website: mckennedyauthor.com

Newsletter: https://hustling-painter-5596.ck.page/4c3187e992

The Giveaway

And at last, the thing you’ve been waiting for … the giveaway!

There will be two giveaway winners–1 U. S. and 1 international.

Link: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/bc7fb7dd3/?

Prizes:

U.S.

–1 paperback copy of ABITS

–3 themed bookmarks

–1 character card

International

–1 ebook copy of ABITS

–3 printable themed bookmarks

–1 digital character card

TTFN!

~Kell~

Are you interested in getting to know me & my books better?

I want to invite you to my super secret club. I mean, it’s not really a secret, because I’m telling you about it now, but here goes.

Join Mrs. Roth’s Society Column, my street team! We’d love to have you along for the ride!

All About Book Two, Like the Air After Rain ~ Like a Ship on the Sea Launch Tour

For the final day of the launch tour, I’m discussing book 2 in The Hilton Legacy trilogy, Like the Air After Rain.

Before that, here’s the normal launch tour stuff . . .

About Like a Ship on the SeaIf God asks you to confront a storm, how dare you stay in the harbor?

Lady Mary Cassidy O’Connell has a dream that can be summed up in three connecting ideas: a loving husband, adorable children, and a home of her own. Her mother’s lack of care makes life difficult for Cassie, and an escape is necessary. The plan? Marry Aubrey Montgomery, the man her parents have chosen for her, and find the peace she craves.

Unfortunately, Cassie is uneasy about marrying Aubrey. Her apprehension grows as she witnesses her dearest friend’s loving marriage take place. At this wedding, she catches the eye of Patrick Hilton, son of a wealthy American. Like Cassie, he’s also set to marry a woman chosen by his parents—only, Patrick claims, he is content with this choice.

Torn between her desire for happiness and the knowledge that God is leading her in a different direction, Cassie confronts the impossible decision. Is a loveless marriage of obligation better than being alone, or will she set sail on a voyage without a safe harbor?

Like a Ship on the Sea is the first novel in The Hilton Legacy, a stand-alone trilogy featuring characters from the author’s first series, The Chronicles of Alice and Ivy.

AMAZON ~ GOODREADSAbout The Hilton Legacy

The Hilton Legacy will be a trilogy (with perhaps one standalone spin-off, depending on how I decide to do this!) set in 1880s and 1890s America and Europe.

The first novel, Like a Ship on the Sea, which is the one we’re celebrating today, features Patrick Hilton and his eventual love interest, Cassie. Of course, we know all about this novel!

The second novel, Like the Air After Rain, will feature Lorelei Hilton and her love interest and will primarily take place in England. There’s going to be a marriage of convenience angle that will be a lot of fun, methinks!

The second novel, Like Lightning in a Bottle, will feature Gwendolyn Hilton and her love interest and will primarily take place in England and America. This one is a little bit of a wild card, but we’re gonna have fun with it.

The Schedule

Monday, September 4th

“Why You Should Read Like a Ship on the Sea” by Kellyn Roth

Book Spotlight by Abby Johansen

Review by Coralie Terry

Author Interview by Naomi Sowell

Tuesday, September 5th (LAUNCH DAY!)

“All the Launch Day Celebrations” by Kellyn Roth

Book Spotlight by Faith Blum

Book Spotlight by Natasha Joy

Book Spotlight by E. G. Bella

Wednesday, September 6th

“About the Gilded Era” by Kellyn Roth

Review by Anna Galicinski

Review by H.S. Kylian

Review by Cassie Porath

Thursday, September 7th

“Tackling Tough Topics with Tact” by Kellyn Roth

Review by Faith’s Bookshelf

Friday, September 8th

“A Guest Post by Alice Strauss” by Kellyn Roth

Book Spotlight by M.C. Kennedy

Review by Reviews from the Stacks

Book Spotlight by Bizwings Book Blog

Saturday, September 9th

“Introducing the Hiltons of Boston” by Kellyn Roth

Review by The Rivers of Words

Monday, September 11th

“How The Hilton Legacy Fits in with The Chronicles of Alice & Ivy” by Kellyn Roth

Author Interview by Amy Ullrich

Review by Pens, Pages, and Pulses

Author Interview by Jane Mouttet

Book Spotlight by Rhys-Marie Whitnell

Tuesday, September 12th

“All About Book Two, Like the Air After Rain” by Kellyn Roth (YOU ARE HERE!)

Review by Katja H. Labonté

Book Spotlight by Grace A. Johnson

Review by Naomi Sowell

Interview & Review by Saraina Whitney

The Giveaway

Don’t forget to enter the giveaway! There will be a USA and International Winner, so even if you don’t live in my country, ENTER ANYWAY, because I made a prize just for you!

US-Only Giveaway: a signed paperback copy of Like a Ship on the Sea, a themed candle, two bookmarks, three character art prints, a themed charm bracelet, and extra special bonus scenes.

International Giveaway: an ebook copy of Like a Ship on the Sea, extra special bonus scenes, a themed phone wallpaper, and the first chapter of book 2.

ENTER NOW!

Or paste this link into your browser: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/cbb544c921/ 

The Bookish Tag

With the help of Grace A. Johnson (who is way too kind to me), I am hosting a bookish tag! This can be done on any social media profile (or even your blog) and is a fun way to join together to celebrate the launch! Starting today!

I’m doing the prompt on my Instagram and Facebook profiles, and I may try to repost some of these to Twitter, too!

The Prompts

Sept. 4 //  a book set in your dream destination

Sept. 6 // your favorite swoon-worthy romance

Sept. 8 // a book with themes that inspire you

Sept. 11 // a most remarkable heroine

Sept. 13 //  a beloved mentor character

Sept. 15 // a hero with an inspiring arc

Sept. 18 // your favorite fictional sibling dynamic

Sept. 20 // a ship that took you by surprise

Sept. 22 // a theme that touched your heart

Sept. 25 // a series spinoff you loved

Sept. 27 // a topic you love to read about

Sept. 29 // your favorite historical time period

RulesThere are prompts for every other weekday in September, but you’re welcome to share whenever you can and catch up at any time.Feel free to use any social media, including Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, your blog, and Youtube.Share about books that fit into the categories, and have fun!  Don’t forget to use the hashtag #likeashipontheseatag and tag Kellyn (@kellynrothauthor on Instagram & Facebook or @kellyntheauthor on Twitter) to be shared!All About Book Two, Like the Air After Rain

The most simple way I can share about the book? How about a blurb!

Lorelei Hilton is on the cusp of an arranged marriage to a spineless boy chosen by her father for the purpose of maintaining the family business. After years of being manipulated and talked down to, Lorelei has had enough. Determined to remove herself and her sister from the constant supervision of her parents, she set out to find a man with the gumption to stand up to her father.

Aubrey Montgomery has three problems: the care of his adolescent sisters, the managing of his household, and his own loneliness. Over two years have passed since his first proposal was rejected by Cassie Hilton. Although he no longer trusts himself to love a woman properly, he could settle for an amicable, emotionless partnership—if the right woman came along.

After a chance meeting with her sister-in-law’s former suitor, Lorelei discovers she has an ally in Aubrey Montgomery. A marriage of convenience to Aubrey would solve both their problems—provided neither of them becomes emotionally attached.

*nervous laugh* Well, um, what do you think? I admit I’m a bit nervous about pulling off some of these elements, but I’m excited.

Other than that, I won’t ramble on too much. But here are some elements this book will include:

Lorelei hating tea for however many thousand wordsEnglish coast (specifically Dorset)Younger sisters getting in trouble (and matchmaking, again)B A B I E SSwimming in the ocean (and getting dunked into the ocean)The fact that something about marrying an English gentleman triggers the Violet Crawley in LoreleiExploring themes of marital harmony, what marriage really entails (& why you can’t just NOT CARE though we all know that EXCEPT APPARENTLY THESE TWO IDIOTS), et ceteraAlso, PPD is explored once more, so that’s going to be … why do I keep writing these sadnessesLorelei sharing every thought that comes into her head before she’s properly thought it throughThis is my Pinterest for the story and this is my playlist for Lorelei, by the way.

A few favorite pictures from the Pinterest board:

To cap it off, let’s share a (very early draft) excerpt of what is Lorelei and Aubrey’s first conversation because she gets straight to the point, as per normal.

For a moment or two, they danced in silence while he scrambled to remember some fragment of small talk that might interest her. Nothing came to mind, and it was Miss Hilton who spoke first.

“You were engaged to my sister-in-law, weren’t you?” Her voice was quiet but cutting. It held a forcefulness, an abruptness, that most women didn’t possess—or didn’t wish to show, if they did possess it.

Aubrey narrowly avoided stumbling over his own feet. “Excuse me?”

Her head dipped in acknowledgement, as if this were the most average conversation subject on earth, but her gray eyes, light and dancing, held what looked like amusement, as if his being flustered was a matter of hilarity. “My sister-in-law. Cassie—well, Lady Mary O’Connell, I suppose. You were her fiancé, weren’t you?”

“No, I was not.” He steered her around another couple before he spoke again. “I asked her to marry me, and she refused.”

“Ah.” Another slight inclination of her head. “I see.”

Then she said nothing. Absolutely nothing. Did she want an explanation? Did she want to humiliate him? What a frustrating situation. If it were not for the fact that he was loathe to cause damage to a young lady’s reputation, he would return her to her mother and leave.

Yet that was not an option. So instead, he began to talk, not sure what he was saying or why—only knowing that he couldn’t bear the silence, the potential judgment.

“We had courted for several years,” he said, pausing to clear his throat, “and I had been quite sure of her. I knew there was something between us—but I believed it was my reluctance to commit. I have never been one to move quickly, not when I can measure my steps and make intelligent decisions. I suppose I made her feel as if I didn’t care—and that’s a fact for which I am eternally sorry. She shouldn’t have had to doubt me, if she did. Perhaps you know more of this than I do, or perhaps you do not. As for me, I was not given an explanation, nor do I need one, I suppose. Her decision was final enough. I don’t begrudge her that. I wish I had loved her well enough to make her stay, but I don’t want you or anyone else to believe that I wished to hold her against her will.”

Miss Hilton was silent for a moment then slowly nodded. “I don’t think I ever believed anything about you at all. Of course, I think my brother made the right decision in marrying her—and I think she was made for him, in all honesty. But I don’t care what you do. I don’t think I ever did. I think Cassie should have left you sooner, of course, but that’s not personal. I just like her better as a sister.” Her chin raised as her eyes met his. “I suppose you could find any number of women here who would serve your purpose just fine.”

His brow furrowed. “Whatever do you mean?”

She stared at him, unblinking, as if what she said was the most logical thing on earth. “I mean there are dozens of women in this room alone who I’m sure would make you a perfectly decent wife. I doubt you want anything special, and the kind of woman you’re looking for is bred here. I suspect you’re overthinking it.” Her tone was casual.

How old was she, anyway? Maybe eighteen? Why did she feel she had the right to speak to him so openly?

Yet he curbed his offense—he’d been learning more and more that the natural prickling of his pride was not an emotion he wanted to cultivate. Certainly, with two young sisters tempting him to frustration every day, he had to adjust—or suffer the loss of their affections, which he could not bear. No, anything but that, regardless of how tempestuous their emotions.

So he replied calmly, his tone even and soft, the same voice he used when Constance was being particularly irrational, at least in his view of things. “I’m overthinking marriage? As in, the life-long decision, ’til death do we part?” Perhaps the logical statement of matters would call the girl back to reality.

Yet apparently not, for her eyebrows arched, and what could only be called a grin appeared on her face. “Oh, that marriage. Sorry, I was talking about the union of Minneapolis and St. Paul.” She rolled her eyes. “No, of course ‘that’ marriage.”

“And why would you ‘suspect’ that I am ‘overthinking’ it?” She didn’t know him, and she felt qualified to make such broad judgments?

“Because I saw enough of you at Alice Strauss’s wedding to know you do not take risks, and because when a man is ready to get married, he marries. You proposed to Cassie; therefore, you are ready to be married; therefore, you are delaying unnecessarily from seizing what you ought.” She said this as if it were the most practical thing in the world rather than wild speculation. “It’s a simple matter, really.”

He frowned. “Well, who would you recommend?”

“As a wife?” She laughed. “Surely you can make that decision yourself.”

“As you seem to know everything, I am hardly foolish enough to neglect your keen advice.” Aubrey couldn’t keep the sarcasm out of his tone. “What should I be looking for, at least?”

Small tendrils of nut-brown hair bounced about her head as she laughed. “What do you want?”

He moved his shoulders in the slightest of shrugs. “Someone who will stay, primarily.”

She shook her head, another grin dancing about her pink lips. “Not a jab that hits its mark with me, but I get your point. That’s simple, though. Just propose to someone. If you marry them, they’ll have to stay.”

“Ah, so you’re suggesting kidnapping?”

“If that’s what it takes.” She turned from him as the music ended, tossing, “A real man would do it,” over her shoulder.

He didn’t know why he followed her. He could’ve escaped, exited stage right, never had to speak to her again.

Instead, he trailed her back to the Knights like an obedient pup on a leash.

TTFN!

~Kell~

P.S.

Well … do you like the sound of that? Are you surprised about … anything?

Are you interested in getting to know me & my books better?

I want to invite you to my super secret club. I mean, it’s not really a secret, because I’m telling you about it now, but here goes.

Join Mrs. Roth’s Society Column, my street team! We’d love to have you along for the ride!

How the Hilton Legacy Fits into The Chronicles of Alice & Ivy ~ Like a Ship on the Sea Launch Tour

Hey folks! Today I’m getting into TIMELINE very briefly for those of you who have read and enjoyed The Chronicles of Alice & Ivy.

Before that, here’s the normal launch tour stuff . . .

About Like a Ship on the SeaIf God asks you to confront a storm, how dare you stay in the harbor?

Lady Mary Cassidy O’Connell has a dream that can be summed up in three connecting ideas: a loving husband, adorable children, and a home of her own. Her mother’s lack of care makes life difficult for Cassie, and an escape is necessary. The plan? Marry Aubrey Montgomery, the man her parents have chosen for her, and find the peace she craves.

Unfortunately, Cassie is uneasy about marrying Aubrey. Her apprehension grows as she witnesses her dearest friend’s loving marriage take place. At this wedding, she catches the eye of Patrick Hilton, son of a wealthy American. Like Cassie, he’s also set to marry a woman chosen by his parents—only, Patrick claims, he is content with this choice.

Torn between her desire for happiness and the knowledge that God is leading her in a different direction, Cassie confronts the impossible decision. Is a loveless marriage of obligation better than being alone, or will she set sail on a voyage without a safe harbor?

Like a Ship on the Sea is the first novel in The Hilton Legacy, a stand-alone trilogy featuring characters from the author’s first series, The Chronicles of Alice and Ivy.

AMAZON ~ GOODREADSAbout The Hilton Legacy

The Hilton Legacy will be a trilogy (with perhaps one standalone spin-off, depending on how I decide to do this!) set in 1880s and 1890s America and Europe.

The first novel, Like a Ship on the Sea, which is the one we’re celebrating today, features Patrick Hilton and his eventual love interest, Cassie. Of course, we know all about this novel!

The second novel, Like the Air After Rain, will feature Lorelei Hilton and her love interest and will primarily take place in England. There’s going to be a marriage of convenience angle that will be a lot of fun, methinks!

The second novel, Like Lightning in a Bottle, will feature Gwendolyn Hilton and her love interest and will primarily take place in England and America. This one is a little bit of a wild card, but we’re gonna have fun with it.

The Schedule

Monday, September 4th

“Why You Should Read Like a Ship on the Sea” by Kellyn Roth

Book Spotlight by Abby Johansen

Review by Coralie Terry

Author Interview by Naomi Sowell

Tuesday, September 5th (LAUNCH DAY!)

“All the Launch Day Celebrations” by Kellyn Roth

Book Spotlight by Faith Blum

Book Spotlight by Natasha Joy

Book Spotlight by E. G. Bella

Wednesday, September 6th

“About the Gilded Era” by Kellyn Roth

Review by Anna Galicinski

Review by H.S. Kylian

Review by Cassie Porath

Thursday, September 7th

“Tackling Tough Topics with Tact” by Kellyn Roth

Review by Faith’s Bookshelf

Friday, September 8th

“A Guest Post by Alice Strauss” by Kellyn Roth

Book Spotlight by M.C. Kennedy

Review by Reviews from the Stacks

Book Spotlight by Bizwings Book Blog

Saturday, September 9th

“Introducing the Hiltons of Boston” by Kellyn Roth

Review by The Rivers of Words

Monday, September 11th

“How The Hilton Legacy Fits in with The Chronicles of Alice & Ivy” by Kellyn Roth (YOU ARE HERE!)

Author Interview by Amy Ullrich

Review by Pens, Pages, and Pulses

Author Interview by Jane Mouttet

Book Spotlight by Rhys-Marie Whitnell

Tuesday, September 12th

“All About Book Two, Like the Air After Rain” by Kellyn Roth

Review by Katja H. Labonté

Book Spotlight by Grace A. Johnson

Review by Naomi Sowell

Interview & Review by Saraina Whitney

The Giveaway

Don’t forget to enter the giveaway! There will be a USA and International Winner, so even if you don’t live in my country, ENTER ANYWAY, because I made a prize just for you!

US-Only Giveaway: a signed paperback copy of Like a Ship on the Sea, a themed candle, two bookmarks, three character art prints, a themed charm bracelet, and extra special bonus scenes.

International Giveaway: an ebook copy of Like a Ship on the Sea, extra special bonus scenes, a themed phone wallpaper, and the first chapter of book 2.

ENTER NOW!

Or paste this link into your browser: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/cbb544c921/ 

The Bookish Tag

With the help of Grace A. Johnson (who is way too kind to me), I am hosting a bookish tag! This can be done on any social media profile (or even your blog) and is a fun way to join together to celebrate the launch! Starting today!

I’m doing the prompt on my Instagram and Facebook profiles, and I may try to repost some of these to Twitter, too!

The Prompts

Sept. 4 //  a book set in your dream destination

Sept. 6 // your favorite swoon-worthy romance

Sept. 8 // a book with themes that inspire you

Sept. 11 // a most remarkable heroine

Sept. 13 //  a beloved mentor character

Sept. 15 // a hero with an inspiring arc

Sept. 18 // your favorite fictional sibling dynamic

Sept. 20 // a ship that took you by surprise

Sept. 22 // a theme that touched your heart

Sept. 25 // a series spinoff you loved

Sept. 27 // a topic you love to read about

Sept. 29 // your favorite historical time period

RulesThere are prompts for every other weekday in September, but you’re welcome to share whenever you can and catch up at any time.Feel free to use any social media, including Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, your blog, and Youtube.Share about books that fit into the categories, and have fun!  Don’t forget to use the hashtag #likeashipontheseatag and tag Kellyn (@kellynrothauthor on Instagram & Facebook or @kellyntheauthor on Twitter) to be shared!How The Hilton Legacy trilogy fits in with The Chronicles of Alice & Ivy

This will be a short post discussing the overlap of timelines between The Hilton Legacy and The Chronicles of Alice & Ivy.

Because, despite the fact that the Hilton Legacy is a standalone as a trilogy, and despite the fact that each of the three novels will operate as a standalone, there are some overlapping characters. And if you end up reading both series, you may find this interesting.

Like a Ship on the Sea Timeline

The beginning of Like a Ship on the Sea coincides with the beginning of A Prayer Unanswered, then time-skips to AFTER A Prayer Unanswered (book 5), ending before book 6 (After Our Castle).

So:

June 1881-December 1882: A Prayer Unanswered
June 1881-September 1883 (epilogue November 1883): Like a Ship on the Sea
January 1884-mid-1886: After Our Castle

But what about books 2 and 3 in The Hilton Legacy?

Though plans may change, I currently intend to start Like the Air After Rain (THL book 2) in mid-1884 (still working out some timeline kinks) and end it around late summer 1885, meaning it overlaps with the timeline of book 6 of TCOAAI, After Our Castle. That said, there will be very little that overlaps there, unlike book 1 of THL and book 5 of TCOAAI, because Ivy and Lorelei will never meet.

(I mean, actually, that’s not true. They meet at a funeral. But that’s beside the point. *shrug*) (Also, yes, if you want to message me privately and bother me about WHOSE funeral … I shall oblige.)

At present, the plan is for book 2 of THL, Like Lightning in a Bottle, to begin in August 1885, which means it may or may not overlap with book 7, Time of Grief, depending on how far it goes. Again, I’m not sure there will be much overlap because Winnie and Alice are … well, actually Alice does have a somewhat vested interest in … Anyways, WE’LL SEE.

So that’s how the timelines work. It’s going to get even more interested when I add in a second spin-off trilogy, but UNTIL THEN … well. This is manageable.

TTFN!

~Kell~

P.S.

Well … are you excited about this trilogy or is it just a stopping place on the way back to more Alice/Peter drama (which apparently some of you care about now) (you seem to think there can’t possibly be more Jordy/Ivy drama) (or maybe you’re just scared to find out what that drama is?). I admit I really want to write this trilogy, but I am pretty excited to get back to book 7!

Are you interested in getting to know me & my books better?

I want to invite you to my super secret club. I mean, it’s not really a secret, because I’m telling you about it now, but here goes.

Join Mrs. Roth’s Society Column, my street team! We’d love to have you along for the ride!

Introducing the Hiltons of Boston ~ A Post for the Like a Ship on the Sea Launch

Today’s post is an intro for a few characters who haven’t shown up in a novel I’ve written yet. Scroll down to read all about the Hiltons of Boston!

Also, I’d like to apologize to all the bloggers/Instagrammers/etc. I haven’t checked in with/commented on/so on. Suffice to say, I will never be having my wisdom teeth out again. Full stop.

Before that, here’s the normal launch tour stuff . . .

About Like a Ship on the SeaIf God asks you to confront a storm, how dare you stay in the harbor?

Lady Mary Cassidy O’Connell has a dream that can be summed up in three connecting ideas: a loving husband, adorable children, and a home of her own. Her mother’s lack of care makes life difficult for Cassie, and an escape is necessary. The plan? Marry Aubrey Montgomery, the man her parents have chosen for her, and find the peace she craves.

Unfortunately, Cassie is uneasy about marrying Aubrey. Her apprehension grows as she witnesses her dearest friend’s loving marriage take place. At this wedding, she catches the eye of Patrick Hilton, son of a wealthy American. Like Cassie, he’s also set to marry a woman chosen by his parents—only, Patrick claims, he is content with this choice.

Torn between her desire for happiness and the knowledge that God is leading her in a different direction, Cassie confronts the impossible decision. Is a loveless marriage of obligation better than being alone, or will she set sail on a voyage without a safe harbor?

Like a Ship on the Sea is the first novel in The Hilton Legacy, a stand-alone trilogy featuring characters from the author’s first series, The Chronicles of Alice and Ivy.

AMAZON ~ GOODREADSAbout The Hilton Legacy

The Hilton Legacy will be a trilogy (with perhaps one standalone spin-off, depending on how I decide to do this!) set in 1880s and 1890s America and Europe.

The first novel, Like a Ship on the Sea, which is the one we’re celebrating today, features Patrick Hilton and his eventual love interest, Cassie. Of course, we know all about this novel!

The second novel, Like the Air After Rain, will feature Lorelei Hilton and her love interest and will primarily take place in England. There’s going to be a marriage of convenience angle that will be a lot of fun, methinks!

The second novel, Like Lightning in a Bottle, will feature Gwendolyn Hilton and her love interest and will primarily take place in England and America. This one is a little bit of a wild card, but we’re gonna have fun with it.

The Schedule

Monday, September 4th

“Why You Should Read Like a Ship on the Sea” by Kellyn Roth

Book Spotlight by Abby Johansen

Review by Coralie Terry

Author Interview by Naomi Sowell

Tuesday, September 5th (LAUNCH DAY!)

“All the Launch Day Celebrations” by Kellyn Roth

Book Spotlight by Faith Blum

Book Spotlight by Natasha Joy

Book Spotlight by E. G. Bella

Wednesday, September 6th

“About the Gilded Era” by Kellyn Roth

Review by Anna Galicinski

Review by H.S. Kylian

Review by Cassie Porath

Thursday, September 7th

“Tackling Tough Topics with Tact” by Kellyn Roth

Review by Faith’s Bookshelf

Friday, September 8th

“A Guest Post by Alice Strauss” by Kellyn Roth

Book Spotlight by M.C. Kennedy

Review by Reviews from the Stacks

Book Spotlight by Bizwings Book Blog

Saturday, September 9th

“Introducing the Hiltons of Boston” by Kellyn Roth (YOU ARE HERE!)

Review by The Rivers of Words

Monday, September 11th

“How The Hilton Legacy Fits in with The Chronicles of Alice & Ivy” by Kellyn Roth

Author Interview by Amy Ullrich

Review by Pens, Pages, and Pulses

Author Interview by Jane Mouttet

Book Spotlight by Rhys-Marie Whitnell

Tuesday, September 12th

“All About Book Two, Like the Air After Rain” by Kellyn Roth

Review by Katja H. Labonté

Book Spotlight by Grace A. Johnson

Review by Naomi Sowell

Interview & Review by Saraina Whitney

The Giveaway

Don’t forget to enter the giveaway! There will be a USA and International Winner, so even if you don’t live in my country, ENTER ANYWAY, because I made a prize just for you!

US-Only Giveaway: a signed paperback copy of Like a Ship on the Sea, a themed candle, two bookmarks, three character art prints, a themed charm bracelet, and extra special bonus scenes.

International Giveaway: an ebook copy of Like a Ship on the Sea, extra special bonus scenes, a themed phone wallpaper, and the first chapter of book 2.

ENTER NOW!

Or paste this link into your browser: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/cbb544c921/ 

The Bookish Tag

With the help of Grace A. Johnson (who is way too kind to me), I am hosting a bookish tag! This can be done on any social media profile (or even your blog) and is a fun way to join together to celebrate the launch! Starting today!

I’m doing the prompt on my Instagram and Facebook profiles, and I may try to repost some of these to Twitter, too!

The Prompts

Sept. 4 //  a book set in your dream destination

Sept. 6 // your favorite swoon-worthy romance

Sept. 8 // a book with themes that inspire you

Sept. 11 // a most remarkable heroine

Sept. 13 //  a beloved mentor character

Sept. 15 // a hero with an inspiring arc

Sept. 18 // your favorite fictional sibling dynamic

Sept. 20 // a ship that took you by surprise

Sept. 22 // a theme that touched your heart

Sept. 25 // a series spinoff you loved

Sept. 27 // a topic you love to read about

Sept. 29 // your favorite historical time period

RulesThere are prompts for every other weekday in September, but you’re welcome to share whenever you can and catch up at any time.Feel free to use any social media, including Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, your blog, and Youtube.Share about books that fit into the categories, and have fun!  Don’t forget to use the hashtag #likeashipontheseatag and tag Kellyn (@kellynrothauthor on Instagram & Facebook or @kellyntheauthor on Twitter) to be shared!Introducing the Hiltons of Boston

The Hiltons are an old money sort of family from Boston who have run a shipping company called the Hilton Shipping Company (so creative …) for probably a good hundred years or so if not more. Given the heavy focus on “The Hilton Legacy” (hence the trilogy title), it is clear that if they did come from low origins, everyone has forgotten.

Patrick Clarence Hilton

Ah, our hero! Well, more or less. At the beginning of the novel, Patrick is struggling with a number of different character flaws, including ignoring God’s prodding in his constant drive to keep his sisters safe, even if it means entering an arranged marriage with a woman who … well, you’ll see. Let’s just say they’re ill-suited for now.

Patrick is your typical big brother type character, only even more wildly protective. He adores his sisters, Lorelei and Gwendolyn (who go by Lore and Winnie, as a sidenote), and he also has a dog named Bellona “Bell” … and not much else. Because his whole life has become the Hilton Shipping Company.

To please his parents, and presumably keep his sisters safe (though how Patrick hopes to accomplish this is a little delusional, but I’ll leave that to the book), Patrick pours himself into everything his parents ask of him. Exhausting himself working for the company with little/no pay. Practically raising his younger sisters. Marrying the woman he doesn’t love. All of it, he’s more than willing to do to avoid conflict, a constant smiling mask in place.

But if I were to actually characterize what Patrick wants in life? Well, not that he’d tell you, or even admit to himself that this is really what drives him, but honestly, all this dude wants is a home, a family (particularly, lots of chubby little babies because yes, he is the most baby-obsessed man ever), and … honestly, he wants to work. I’m pretty sure he would’ve contentedly worked for his family’s company forever if he’d had the option. (This is the point as which we use a literal deus ex machina to give him no option.)

And honestly? I love Patrick. I didn’t for a while, but I’ve come to … kinda-sorta like him more than Peter? Okay, okay, that sounds CRAZY. But hear me out. More than any of my characters, he’s just a sort of average guy with a lot of character flaws (character flaws I’ve observed in real-life friends, no less) who is doing his best with some noble goals (raising and loving his sisters) which are probably masking some less-than-noble goals (avoiding conflict, keeping himself safe, not having to make any big life changes). And at the end of the day, I think we’d get a long better than Peter and I would?

Like, I adore my husband, and I’m not saying someone like Patrick would be better for me than Matthew (actually, I’m pretty sure Patrick and I would just exhaust each other, lol), but I must admit that if Matthew had never existed, and I didn’t know how great we are together, I would say Patrick is totally my type.

But yeah, again, Patrick and I would exhaust each other.

Anyways, here are some things I really like about Patrick:

HE LIKES BABIES.Okay, actually, is this the reason I like Patrick?… maybe.But he is a dedicated “I WANT TO HOLD THE BABY” kind of man who just wants to be a dad someday & give his babies the childhood he didn’t have. Yes, he was written by a woman, why do you ask?His relationship with Lore and Winnie.He loves his sisters but is also moderately annoyed by them constantly. I’m a big fan of half-decent brothers, lol. I have two, though they’re younger (actually, the book is dedicated to one of them), and we have a very different dynamic, but basically, we need more realistic sibling relationships, in my opinion.Also, you can tell Lore and Winnie know him well, because they take one look at Cassie, and are like, “… okay, so we’re professional matchmakers now.”Him just laughing when … well, spoilers.When I say I was giggling while I wrote it …Speaking of that situation, he is such a little weirdo, because he’s just like, “Fine. Take her. I don’t care. This doesn’t even effect my friendship with you. Like, I still consider us close. I will come to your house with six puppies in the middle of the night.”How he immediately gets so happy and light-hearted when …Okay, that’s a major spoiler.But basically, joyous Patrick is so contagious in my mind, and I really want to write more scenes with him.#RedheadMenFTWI mean, I’ve characterized him as having reddish brownish hair, but meh.Also, I get the vibes that he is wildly nervous around Peter Strauss, which I just find funny.But just random things I find cool about him:He’s driven.He genuinely enjoys his job and is good at it.How confuzzled he is by genuine compliments, poor boy.How attracted he is to Cassie.I know this may not be a point in his favor for some, but I just think it’s cute, and I like writing characters who get to be with the person who is, to them, the more attractive person in the world (in every way, though physical attraction is a part of it), because I certainly did, and I want everyone to have the same joy.Also, I do think his attraction to her is super pure. Like, more so than Jordy, he has a handle on it, and more so than Peter, it’s not ‘… and now I’ll do whatever she wants, to a degree.’I feel like Patrick finds Cassie objectively gorgeous but falls for her character … and then realizes what a great bonus it is that she’s Practically Perfect In Every Way (from his perspective, anywho).The obsessive need to be near water when he makes decisions.“I know we’ll have a shaken-up life for some time. But I wouldn’t want to live that shaken-up life with anyone but you. Not now, not ever. I love you.”… see, now, this is the kind of thing I find romantic. Is it really romantic? IDK. But I think it issss.Mr. Clarence Robert Hilton

Patrick’s father and the owner of The Hilton Shipping Co., Mr. Clarence Robert Hilton is a piece of work. He’s just … gah. I don’t even want to talk about him. He doesn’t love his kids. He doesn’t love his wife. He obviously cares about nothing that his dumb shipping company, and even then, Patrick says he’s making dumb business decisions and risky investments lately out of paranoia, so there you go.

No part of his life is good.

Go figure.

That’s what a bad character gets you, Clarence.

Anyways, his backstory is that he was raised in Boston where he presumably grew up with Philip Knight* (whose parents also lived in Boston after moving there from England – see The Dressmaker’s Secret).

*Why is Philip long-time friends with him? I don’t know. I feel like his younger self might’ve been a little less obviously despicable, for one thing, and they also went through a whole war with each other, so like … I guess they bonded some more.

His parents were Robert and Anne Hilton, and he is an only child. Though not mentioned in the novel, both his parents have died, leaving him in sole control of the Hilton Shipping Co.

Clarence married Lynnie (see below) when he was quite young, and their whole relationship is founded on a shaky foundation as he basically promised one thing to her and her family (to support them and the south during the American Civil War, which probably meant also using his shipping network to do blockage running and such in the long run) and then changed his mind (or just had no intention of keeping to his word) after he married her and removed her from her family.

Which means he abandoned a very young woman in an unfamiliar town with no friends or family in the middle of the war shortly after getting her pregnant. And we wonder why Lynnie is messed up.

ANYWAYS, the only nice thing I can say about him is he probably thought Hazel was a decent human being. (Did you catch that Easter egg?)

Also, if anyone complains that I only write “good”* northern-sympathizers when discussing the American Civil War … well, here’s one.

*trying to never write good/bad characters in general, but sometimes we do need a villain, and this man is a villain.

The odd thing is, even Parker doesn’t rouse this kind of anger in me, but something about seeing a man actively emotionally abuse his family and never suffer consequences is so … darned … frustrating!

Mrs. Dorothy Lynn “Lynnie” Hilton (née McCullough)

Lynnie, or Mrs. Hilton, is the mother of Patrick, Lorelei, and Gwendolyn, and the wife of Clarence. She is characterized for much as the novel as being somewhat frightening (to the point where Philip Knight is mildly intimidated by her, but let’s be honest … Philip is not super … well. He’s Philip), but compared to her husband, she definitely has a deeper desire to at least … not have her children die?

She’s a cold, selfish woman, but at the end of the day, she does care somewhat the children she brought into the world don’t DIE. So that’s something …

The truth is, much as Lynnie is definitely responsible for her own issues in some ways, she is a woman trapped in a hellscape of a marriage to a man who hates her, and … that can’t be fun. Is that a good excuse to ignore her children and basically leave them to their own devices? Not particularly. But is it the situation she has found herself in? Yes.

Also, there’s the small point that it’s kind of implied that if they hadn’t had children (in particular, Patrick), Lynnie might have run home to her brother, which … do we blame her? (Yes, sort of. But at the same time … gah. Yeah, see, I know how all this ends up, and yet at the same time, we’ll see how I pull it off.)

One of her childhood friends who she may or may not have treated awfully because, let’s be honest, she is a bully, was Hazel Bailey, who you may recognize from The Dressmaker’s Secret. That’s also, coincidentally, how Philip met Hazel, as she stayed with the Hiltons after the war because, much like Lynnie, she lost pretty much everything … only unlike Lynnie, Hazel was left reliant on her brother as she was still unmarried at that point, but I’m getting distracted by this sideplot, so let’s stop.

It’s not specified in the novel (or talked about at all), Lynnie is definitely one of a large family, all of whom have died by the time Like a Ship on the Sea takes place with, possibly, the exception of her brother Patrick. I’ve always believed she was the second oldest, after Patrick. I also have a mild head-canon (and I’m the author …) that Lorelei and Gwendolyn were sisters of hers, but who knows? (But really. I’m not making that canon unless it makes sense at some point.)

Her family were definitely Scots-Irish, though given that they probably immigrated in the early 1700s, there’s some gray area on exactly WHAT they were anymore. 100% Gaelic decent, though.

Also, Patrick and Gwendolyn get their red or reddish hair from their mother, and all three children have her gray eyes.

Lorelei Anne Hilton

I love Lorelei! I won’t go on too long about her since she’ll get her chance in book 2. But I think she’s great. She’s a little sarcastic, super independent, and pretty girly, which is fun because usually girly girls are written as shallow or gentle, and … I would say she’s more … straightforward.

Okay, she’s blunt. She’s blunt, and it’s so much fun.

One of my favorite scenes is when she confronts Patrick on his obvious “doing the wrong thing for his dumb reasons” with Blanche, and she CRIES, and though she does instantly deny it, you can just tell she loves him so much that she’s in tears over Her Idiot Brother, but she’s also so fiercely protective of him.

The following quotes from this one conversation:

“It’s a ring.” “I know what a ring box looks like.” “I wondered, because I never saw Blanche with one.”“Don’t lie to me, Patrick Clarence Hilton. You never have been able to, and that won’t start now.”“I won’t marry a man who won’t provide me with my own ring, and a nicer one than that, so it’s no sacrifice.”

Also, just for fun, here’s some Lorelei quotes from the draft I’m writing of book 2:

He had gotten out. And she had said she’d be fine. And she had meant it. And she had cried herself to sleep that night for the first time since she was a baby.

~

Lord, show me how to live this life as myself. Show me how to find my place here—with my family or in my own family. I can’t be a piece of driftwood anymore, reliant on the strength of a mightier wave to force me to whatever beach it sees fit. Take me somewhere grand, and don’t let me leave it.

~

She’d frankly have preferred something a little more intimate—unlike her brother, she was not suited for the social element of making connections. She’d rather be calculating than polite.

~

“She opened the house just for us, so I hope you’re going to be polite and on your best behavior.”
Winnie sat up. “I am always on my best behavior.”
“Really? Your best always vaguely resembles a three-year-old who’s gotten into the sugar bin.”

~

“I am becoming quite respectable. Mother says I’m almost a lady.”
“She says that because you seldom act like one.”

~

“I don’t know if my mother ever mentioned it—or if you heard the gossip at all—but I am now the heiress of a significant portion of my father’s fortune and properties, not to mention my portion of his company. I am also, as of yet, unengaged, and I would like to change that—on my own terms. I know a lady wouldn’t mention such things, much less anything monetary, but I am American, and I presume everyone here, yourself included, expects me to be a little crude. Well, I’m not that, but I do think I live in a harsher world—and yet, also, a world where I can make a future for myself if I try.” She smiled and took another determined sip of the vaguely bitter leaf-water. “I hope you’re not too taken aback by my honesty, but as my host, I couldn’t help but feel you deserved it.”

Gwendolyn Anne Hilton

Gwendolyn, or little Winnie, is actually going to be our heroine in book 3, so again, I don’t want to give too much away, but she’s a sweet summer child with a dash of magic (actually, I think in book 2, I have Lorelei describing her as a wild fairy child), and honestly, she’s the child who seems to have received the least scars from her upcoming.

Seems.

But in truth, she has been largely very sheltered, and I think the more time she spends without Patrick hovering over her, the more she will grow.

That said, she is a somewhat-vapid young teenager who doesn’t want to grow up. And like, I find her charming but … chime in in the comments below! Was she annoying? Did you get anything interesting from her? Or was she just sort of lumped in with Lorelei?

Mrs. Patrick Hilton

Not much to say here that hasn’t already been said … hint-hint …

TTFN!

~Kell~

P.S.

Well, do you think you’d like to get to know any of the Hiltons? (If you say Mr. and Mrs. Hilton, I will be confuzzled.)

Are you interested in getting to know me & my books better?

I want to invite you to my super secret club. I mean, it’s not really a secret, because I’m telling you about it now, but here goes.

Join Mrs. Roth’s Society Column, my street team! We’d love to have you along for the ride!

A Guest Post by Alice Strauss ~ Like a Ship on the Sea Launch Tour & Giveaway

In today’s post, I feature Alice giving a “matron of honor” speech because that’s what she wanted to do with her opportunity to guest post.

God help us all.

Before that, here’s the normal launch tour stuff . . .

About Like a Ship on the SeaIf God asks you to confront a storm, how dare you stay in the harbor?

Lady Mary Cassidy O’Connell has a dream that can be summed up in three connecting ideas: a loving husband, adorable children, and a home of her own. Her mother’s lack of care makes life difficult for Cassie, and an escape is necessary. The plan? Marry Aubrey Montgomery, the man her parents have chosen for her, and find the peace she craves.

Unfortunately, Cassie is uneasy about marrying Aubrey. Her apprehension grows as she witnesses her dearest friend’s loving marriage take place. At this wedding, she catches the eye of Patrick Hilton, son of a wealthy American. Like Cassie, he’s also set to marry a woman chosen by his parents—only, Patrick claims, he is content with this choice.

Torn between her desire for happiness and the knowledge that God is leading her in a different direction, Cassie confronts the impossible decision. Is a loveless marriage of obligation better than being alone, or will she set sail on a voyage without a safe harbor?

Like a Ship on the Sea is the first novel in The Hilton Legacy, a stand-alone trilogy featuring characters from the author’s first series, The Chronicles of Alice and Ivy.

AMAZON ~ GOODREADSAbout The Hilton Legacy

The Hilton Legacy will be a trilogy (with perhaps one standalone spin-off, depending on how I decide to do this!) set in 1880s and 1890s America and Europe.

The first novel, Like a Ship on the Sea, which is the one we’re celebrating today, features Patrick Hilton and his eventual love interest, Cassie. Of course, we know all about this novel!

The second novel, Like the Air After Rain, will feature Lorelei Hilton and her love interest and will primarily take place in England. There’s going to be a marriage of convenience angle that will be a lot of fun, methinks!

The second novel, Like Lightning in a Bottle, will feature Gwendolyn Hilton and her love interest and will primarily take place in England and America. This one is a little bit of a wild card, but we’re gonna have fun with it.

The Schedule

Monday, September 4th

“Why You Should Read Like a Ship on the Sea” by Kellyn Roth

Book Spotlight by Abby Johansen

Review by Coralie Terry

Author Interview by Naomi Sowell

Tuesday, September 5th (LAUNCH DAY!)

“All the Launch Day Celebrations” by Kellyn Roth

Book Spotlight by Faith Blum

Book Spotlight by Natasha Joy

Book Spotlight by E. G. Bella

Wednesday, September 6th

“About the Gilded Era” by Kellyn Roth

Review by Anna Galicinski

Review by H.S. Kylian

Review by Cassie Porath

Thursday, September 7th

“Tackling Tough Topics with Tact” by Kellyn Roth

Review by Faith’s Bookshelf

Friday, September 8th

“A Guest Post by Alice Strauss” by Kellyn Roth (YOU ARE HERE!)

Book Spotlight by M.C. Kennedy

Review by Reviews from the Stacks

Book Spotlight by Bizwings Book Blog

Saturday, September 9th

“Introducing the Hiltons of Boston” by Kellyn Roth

Review by The Rivers of Words

Monday, September 11th

“How The Hilton Legacy Fits in with The Chronicles of Alice & Ivy” by Kellyn Roth

Author Interview by Amy Ullrich

Review by Pens, Pages, and Pulses

Author Interview by Jane Mouttet

Book Spotlight by Rhys-Marie Whitnell

Tuesday, September 12th

“All About Book Two, Like the Air After Rain” by Kellyn Roth

Review by Katja H. Labonté

Book Spotlight by Grace A. Johnson

Review by Naomi Sowell

Interview & Review by Saraina Whitney

The Giveaway

Don’t forget to enter the giveaway! There will be a USA and International Winner, so even if you don’t live in my country, ENTER ANYWAY, because I made a prize just for you!

US-Only Giveaway: a signed paperback copy of Like a Ship on the Sea, a themed candle, two bookmarks, three character art prints, a themed charm bracelet, and extra special bonus scenes.

International Giveaway: an ebook copy of Like a Ship on the Sea, extra special bonus scenes, a themed phone wallpaper, and the first chapter of book 2.

ENTER NOW!

Or paste this link into your browser: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/cbb544c921/ 

The Bookish Tag

With the help of Grace A. Johnson (who is way too kind to me), I am hosting a bookish tag! This can be done on any social media profile (or even your blog) and is a fun way to join together to celebrate the launch! Starting today!

I’m doing the prompt on my Instagram and Facebook profiles, and I may try to repost some of these to Twitter, too!

The Prompts

Sept. 4 //  a book set in your dream destination

Sept. 6 // your favorite swoon-worthy romance

Sept. 8 // a book with themes that inspire you

Sept. 11 // a most remarkable heroine

Sept. 13 //  a beloved mentor character

Sept. 15 // a hero with an inspiring arc

Sept. 18 // your favorite fictional sibling dynamic

Sept. 20 // a ship that took you by surprise

Sept. 22 // a theme that touched your heart

Sept. 25 // a series spinoff you loved

Sept. 27 // a topic you love to read about

Sept. 29 // your favorite historical time period

RulesThere are prompts for every other weekday in September, but you’re welcome to share whenever you can and catch up at any time.Feel free to use any social media, including Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, your blog, and Youtube.Share about books that fit into the categories, and have fun!  Don’t forget to use the hashtag #likeashipontheseatag and tag Kellyn (@kellynrothauthor on Instagram & Facebook or @kellyntheauthor on Twitter) to be shared!A Guest Post by Alice Strauss

Dear Ladies, Gentlemen, and Other Readers,

Today we are gathered here together to celebrate the romance of Cassie and … that man. I’m Alice Strauss, and I have been Cassie’s dearest friend since we met at Miss Selle’s Boarding School for Girls at seven and eight years old, respectively. We’ve been dearest friends ever since.

Cassie was such a quiet thing back then that I doubt we would’ve become friends if I hadn’t felt she needed some support. At the time, I was quite convinced that if I didn’t stand by her, she might never manage to raise her eyes much past her shoe tips, but she’s thankfully learned to make eye contact now, which is nice. I suppose seven is not the bravest age.

All that is beside the point now. Now I’m simply glad to be allowed to speak briefly on this platform as I was not allowed to do so at her wedding because no one informed me it was an option.

I admit that there is must I believe Cassie’s husband has to atone for. Oh, that would be the case if he had done nothing at all, but as it is, I hope he understands how blessed he is. That said, I shouldn’t say that because at the end of the day, they are well-suited.

And they’re already married, so there’s little I can do but choose to be encouraging. Because otherwise, I would be a rather poor friend.

Cassie, if you read this, which I hope you will be able to, I just want to say that I love you deeply, and I am so appreciative of all the support you have given me. It’s rare in life that you meet someone who so perfectly complements you, and though of course for me that is Peter (and for you, it is likely Patrick, as that seems to be the way these things go once God gets started with them) … you are certainly the best-suited friend for me.

At every point, you encourage me, and I hope I offer the same encouragement to you. You are certainly much more honest with me than most would dare to be, and that’s what I need, so I appreciate it. And I would die rather than see you unhappy, and you’re the only woman I know who is actually interesting to listen to for more than a few minutes. So that’s rather nice.

All this to say, I wish you the best in your marriage, and I hope you know that I will always be here to listen to you as you have always listened to me … and that the Lord will bless your marriage abundantly.

See, that wasn’t that long at all.

TTFN!

~Kell~

P.S.

Okay, Alice, that’s more than enough.

Are you interested in getting to know me & my books better?

I want to invite you to my super secret club. I mean, it’s not really a secret, because I’m telling you about it now, but here goes.

Join Mrs. Roth’s Society Column, my street team! We’d love to have you along for the ride!

Tackling Tough Topics with Tact ~ Like a Ship on the Sea Launch Tour & Giveaway

Today’s topic is one close to my heart … and one I kind of talked about in Monday’s post (okay, I totally RAMBLED about it in last Monday’s post), but this time will be less, “My heart behind it!” and more, “Here’s how to do it, in my opinion.”

With the caveat that I am not worthy enough for you to either take my opinion so seriously that you listen to none other OR get offended because our opinions vary. They’re called “opinions” for a reason.

Before that, here’s the normal launch tour stuff . . .

About Like a Ship on the SeaIf God asks you to confront a storm, how dare you stay in the harbor?

Lady Mary Cassidy O’Connell has a dream that can be summed up in three connecting ideas: a loving husband, adorable children, and a home of her own. Her mother’s lack of care makes life difficult for Cassie, and an escape is necessary. The plan? Marry Aubrey Montgomery, the man her parents have chosen for her, and find the peace she craves.

Unfortunately, Cassie is uneasy about marrying Aubrey. Her apprehension grows as she witnesses her dearest friend’s loving marriage take place. At this wedding, she catches the eye of Patrick Hilton, son of a wealthy American. Like Cassie, he’s also set to marry a woman chosen by his parents—only, Patrick claims, he is content with this choice.

Torn between her desire for happiness and the knowledge that God is leading her in a different direction, Cassie confronts the impossible decision. Is a loveless marriage of obligation better than being alone, or will she set sail on a voyage without a safe harbor?

Like a Ship on the Sea is the first novel in The Hilton Legacy, a stand-alone trilogy featuring characters from the author’s first series, The Chronicles of Alice and Ivy.

AMAZON ~ GOODREADSAbout The Hilton Legacy

The Hilton Legacy will be a trilogy (with perhaps one standalone spin-off, depending on how I decide to do this!) set in 1880s and 1890s America and Europe.

The first novel, Like a Ship on the Sea, which is the one we’re celebrating today, features Patrick Hilton and his eventual love interest, Cassie. Of course, we know all about this novel!

The second novel, Like the Air After Rain, will feature Lorelei Hilton and her love interest and will primarily take place in England. There’s going to be a marriage of convenience angle that will be a lot of fun, methinks!

The second novel, Like Lightning in a Bottle, will feature Gwendolyn Hilton and her love interest and will primarily take place in England and America. This one is a little bit of a wild card, but we’re gonna have fun with it.

The Schedule

Monday, September 4th

“Why You Should Read Like a Ship on the Sea” by Kellyn Roth

Book Spotlight by Abby Johansen

Review by Coralie Terry

Author Interview by Naomi Sowell

Tuesday, September 5th (LAUNCH DAY!)

“All the Launch Day Celebrations” by Kellyn Roth

Book Spotlight by Faith Blum

Book Spotlight by Natasha Joy

Book Spotlight by E. G. Bella

Wednesday, September 6th

“About the Gilded Era” by Kellyn Roth

Review by Anna Galicinski

Review by H.S. Kylian

Review by Cassie Porath

Thursday, September 7th

“Tackling Tough Topics with Tact” by Kellyn Roth (YOU ARE HERE!)

Review by Faith’s Bookshelf

Friday, September 8th

“A Guest Post by Alice Strauss” by Kellyn Roth

Book Spotlight by M.C. Kennedy

Review by Reviews from the Stacks

Book Spotlight by Bizwings Book Blog

Saturday, September 9th

“Introducing the Hiltons of Boston” by Kellyn Roth

Review by The Rivers of Words

Monday, September 11th

“How The Hilton Legacy Fits in with The Chronicles of Alice & Ivy” by Kellyn Roth

Author Interview by Amy Ullrich

Review by Pens, Pages, and Pulses

Author Interview by Jane Mouttet

Book Spotlight by Rhys-Marie Whitnell

Tuesday, September 12th

“All About Book Two, Like the Air After Rain” by Kellyn Roth

Review by Katja H. Labonté

Book Spotlight by Grace A. Johnson

Review by Naomi Sowell

Interview & Review by Saraina Whitney

The Giveaway

Don’t forget to enter the giveaway! There will be a USA and International Winner, so even if you don’t live in my country, ENTER ANYWAY, because I made a prize just for you!

US-Only Giveaway: a signed paperback copy of Like a Ship on the Sea, a themed candle, two bookmarks, three character art prints, a themed charm bracelet, and extra special bonus scenes.

International Giveaway: an ebook copy of Like a Ship on the Sea, extra special bonus scenes, a themed phone wallpaper, and the first chapter of book 2.

ENTER NOW!

Or paste this link into your browser: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/cbb544c921/ 

The Bookish Tag

With the help of Grace A. Johnson (who is way too kind to me), I am hosting a bookish tag! This can be done on any social media profile (or even your blog) and is a fun way to join together to celebrate the launch! Starting today!

I’m doing the prompt on my Instagram and Facebook profiles, and I may try to repost some of these to Twitter, too!

The Prompts

Sept. 4 //  a book set in your dream destination

Sept. 6 // your favorite swoon-worthy romance

Sept. 8 // a book with themes that inspire you

Sept. 11 // a most remarkable heroine

Sept. 13 //  a beloved mentor character

Sept. 15 // a hero with an inspiring arc

Sept. 18 // your favorite fictional sibling dynamic

Sept. 20 // a ship that took you by surprise

Sept. 22 // a theme that touched your heart

Sept. 25 // a series spinoff you loved

Sept. 27 // a topic you love to read about

Sept. 29 // your favorite historical time period

RulesThere are prompts for every other weekday in September, but you’re welcome to share whenever you can and catch up at any time.Feel free to use any social media, including Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, your blog, and Youtube.Share about books that fit into the categories, and have fun!  Don’t forget to use the hashtag #likeashipontheseatag and tag Kellyn (@kellynrothauthor on Instagram & Facebook or @kellyntheauthor on Twitter) to be shared!Tackling Tough Topics with Tact

This Monday, I discussed my decision to tackle tough topics in Like a Ship on the Sea and all my novels. I dove deep into my past, into the way the Christian fiction world has both inspired and crushed me, and more.

This deeply personal post discusses a lot of the heart behind tackling the tough and taboo topics, the type of themes and events that are so often discussed in the Bible … but that Christians only speak about in hushed voices. Mental health struggles, sexual sins & healthy sexuality, the depths of loss & grief, and more.

That post discusses my story. This post is going to discuss a little more of the HOW TO (at least for me).

Now, don’t get me wrong. Though there are Christian readers and authors who are uncomfortable with taboo topics (and these are their personal convictions & is totally okay!) and who judge Christian authors for choosing to portray those topics (which I guess is their prerogative, but sometimes, especially when it’s theoretical, I see people taking it too far, making it sound like being clean = being free of tough topics, which is not true!) … yes, though there are Christians who are anti-taboo topic for ANY reason (and that’s fine) …

I know also quite a few Christian fiction authors doing exactly what I’m doing. And I’ve read them, and I love them. I’m not saying there aren’t Christian fiction authors who do this. There are a lot of them!

Some do them do it well and some don’t. For me, trying to write Christian fiction for the Lord, I want to do it well because it is important to “do everything heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.” So how does one do that? After studying authors who seem to do it right, after studying fiction for years, and after spending a lot of time in prayer, I feel like I have an idea of how that’s accomplished.

AN IDEA. I’m not saying this is how to do this. I’m not saying my process won’t change. I am saying this is how I do it now, and that this is a trend I see amongst great Christian fiction novels that discuss more difficult topics.

So here are a few practical tips for discussing any tough subject.

#1: Research, research, research.

Even if it’s a topic you have personal experience with (which is great … um, okay, in the sense that it will deepen your understanding of the topic), I recommend doing research to understand the minutia of whatever topic you’re discussing. Find books on the subject, both fiction and nonfiction. Interview people with similar experience. Understand what’s been said on the subject … and what could be said by you to add to the topic or to at least shed a different light on it. Don’t just rely on your imagination!

And while you research, pray. Pray for great resources. Pray for understanding and discernment, as sometimes a personal opinion may influence whatever resource you’ve found. Pray that you will have a compassionate understanding of the subject and that your own opinions will fade away, allowing you to view the subject with objective eyes. (If nothing else, an author MUST be objective.)

And as you go, make tons of notes!

#2: Decide on your target audience early on.

This will help you decide how much you’ll include, how you’ll discuss the topic, and what kinds of things you actually need to research. If you’re discussing mental health subjects in a way that’s appropriate for children, that will be different than the way you write for a teenager which will be different than the way you write for adults.

And even within certain audiences, there will be variances. A ten-year-old will understand things much differently than a six-year-old. And a fifty-year-old is wildly different from a thirty-year-old who is wildly different from a twenty-year-old. Coming up with a specific “target reader” may be a good idea.

For me, I’m writing for young women aged 16-25.

As noted in my last blog post:

My novels are not “clean for all audiences.” Sure, I write “clean fiction” if you mean “no sex scenes, no graphic violence, no cussing,” but not in the sense of “no references to sexuality,” “no adult-only topics covered,” “no darkness whatsoever.”

The Bible is meant to be read by all audiences, yes, but all audiences shouldn’t be encouraged to deeply dive into, for instance, sexual ethics based entirely on Biblical understanding. And the Bible is great, because you can totally read and understand it as a child … and then go back as a teenager and get something more out of it … and then go back as an adult and get even more out of it.

But we are not God, and we are not writing the Bible! That is an unrealistic expectation. As a married adult, I am both able to read the Bible in a way that deeply digs into what it says about, for instance, sexuality … and then portray these factors that in my books and in my characters’ relationships …

WITHOUT showing sexual scenes, writing in such a way that the reader’s mind will feel dirty or their thoughts and feelings edge toward sexual arousal (which is the main purpose of smut – it is meant to arouse, to create sexual feelings outside of marriage, which is wrong), or dishonoring God.

Yet that does not mean my book is literally the Bible. Some topics in my books are not kid-safe because I confess I am writing for adults. The Bible is written for everyone. But the Bible literally has power, and if you believe you can mimic that power, dear author … well, I can’t convince you otherwise, but I personally am afraid I can’t mimic that power. I’m just me, not God, and the gifts He has given me do, um, not lend toward Bible-writing, somehow.

And really, what’s happened to me is, God has said, “Kellyn, I want you to write for specific people. Leave the audiences you can’t reach for me. You aren’t everything to everyone. You are THIS AUTHOR for THESE PEOPLE.”

The key is ALWAYS balance … and audience. I wouldn’t hand Like a Ship on the Sea to anyone under 16 because it does briefly and tastefully discuss some sexual topics, and there is an obvious undertone of attraction between my main leads, especially after they are married. It’s not explicit. In fact, because of my personal tastes, it’s “cleaner” than most of the Christian romances out there in terms of “how much is described.” (I’m not really opposed to a higher level of kissin’, and most of my favorite authors write more. But I just … am an awkward kiss-writer. I get the point across other ways.)

#3: Figure Out How You’ll Personally Touch on These Topics

For me, this inevitably means utter honesty … and a light touch that doesn’t leave the reader stuck in darkness for too long. I believe in being straightforward when it comes to tough topics, and I also believe in not purposefully choosing to drag the reader in the darkness for ages.

I’m going to quote Monday’s blog post again:

I believe some authors who discuss such topics can struggle because they try to write about things that are tough to talk about in poetic ways OR they really lean into the grittiness.

Neither feels appropriate to me.

One belittles pain and sin into something sort of artistic and dramatic, which honestly can sometimes make it seem attractive … or too light … or too dark. (Art is funny that way. It can be understood all sorts of ways. But I don’t believe sin should be an art, truly.)

The other embroils the reader in darkness without a steady thread of light.

I think sensitive topics deserve a light but honest touch.

When I say sin here, by the way, it’s worth noting that sin is usually (even always?) what causes tough/taboo/etc. topics to even exist. Whether it’s because sin is in the world, creating death and illness and MORE (yay …) or because people are sinning and causing pain for themselves or others, sin is the root cause of all the “taboos.”

And you know, I get being uncomfortable with sin. So I understand WHY these are taboo, why we are having a tough time sharing about and reading about these topics. And even WHY some people don’t want them discussed at all. I mean, sin is not fun! (More on that later!)

To kind of show you how this comes off to readers …

Here are some quotes from recent reviews:

The faith aspect of this story SHONE. It’s not “preachy,” if you’re taking that to mean sermons in a fiction book. It’s faith meeting real-world issues like suicide and miscarriage and struggling to follow where God is leading and feeling lost and not knowing where to turn to. It’s powerful, and I think every reader will find something to relate to and gain encouragement from.

There are a lot of heavy themes discussed but handled in a Biblical, real way. And the “discussions of a sexual nature” were handled as tastefully as they possibly could’ve been. In fact, the romance too was written in such a wholesome way. The few kisses weren’t described at great length, though they were still satisfying and the physical attraction was unmistakable. Think Jane Austen + an explicitly Christian worldview + Kellyn Roth’s penchant for blunt straightforwardness in otherwise-thought-of-as-delicate subjects. It’s quite refreshing.

(From a review of Like a Ship on the Sea on Goodreads)

Kellyn handles each topic with the warranted delicacy and none are graphic or explicit. But neither does she sugar coat the pain that comes from these difficult situations.

(From a review of Like a Ship on the Sea on Goodreads)

Some might even be downright uncomfortable with Kellyn’s trademark bluntness in certain matters, especially if you’re a newcomer to her books, but regardless, she always handles it in a tactful, appropriate way, because these are matters worth discussing!

(From a review of Like a Ship on the Sea on Goodreads)

And this brings me to my next point, which relates to WHY I choose this approach.

#4: Sin is not art.

Sin is not beautiful. Not even achingly beautiful.

Sin is drudgery. Sin is ugly. Sin is not worthy of our focus.

The Lord is the Creator of the best art! He is beautiful, and He should be our main focus.

This sort of emo-teen idea that there’s something cool about being “morally gray” or a bad boy, that by becoming “good” we lose our edge or personality, is ridiculous. We are at our most individualistic and our most interesting when we’re following God’s commands, when we’re “being good.”

And sadly, Christians do not do a good job portraying this, perhaps because we don’t understand it. One of the most frustrating aspects of my childhood was reading Elsie Dinsmore and watching every “rebellious & disobedient” character get formed into a little Elsie clone.

Why? Because Martha Finley seemed to think because Elsie was the essence of goodness, to write good characters, she just had to copy and paste. I think there was a character named Lucinda (or some form of Lucy … Lucella? Or am I thinking of someone else entirely? Anyways, I think her last name was Raymond, right? She had the … ship captain dad who married Elsie’s daughter? Gosh, this series was so complicated) who in particular upset me, because she lost her actual personality in exchange for “being good” and reforming from some of her rather bratty traits.

But the truth is, even when we’re deep in our sins, we’re often accidentally reflecting aspects of God’s creation in us. We can’t help it. Oftentimes, what our extremism turns into a sin may eventually be tamed into a strength (maybe you’ve overbearing and that turns into strong leadership skills), or we may pursue the opposite (maybe you’re a liar and you become endlessly dedicated to the truth).

The things I’ve experienced in the past – for instance, typecasting myself into sinful situations (“I’m unfeeling; I lack empathy; I’m too blunt; there’s no way I can change this about myself; I’m despairing of ever being a ‘proper Christian'”) – have all returned to me (“I’m not going to give into this idea that individuality means you can’t follow the Lord when really our true individuality can only be found in Him … and I don’t want anyone else to, either!”).

Because our pain has purpose. Honestly, it often has roots in our calling; it is the preparing grounds for something greater. That tragic backstory, the effects of sin … in the end, the Lord can turn what the world, what sin, meant for evil … and make it good.

And here’s what the means: as a character moves through their arc and, in Christian fiction, comes closer to God (or comes closer to their “truth,” in all fiction), they will become more and more themselves. They will blossom before your eyes!

That’s probably one of my favorite bits of Like a Ship on the Sea … both Cassie and Patrick really become their true selves as they pursue God more passionately. This is how it should be. We should all be becoming more brilliant with joy, with personality, and with strength as we become more like Christ.

It’s not prosperity gospel because it ain’t about physical prosperity. A strong, joyful, godly character (meaning “the mental and moral qualities distinctive to an individual”) is something no one can take away from you, unlike physical blessings like wealth, good health, et cetera.

That said, although I don’t believe that sin is pleasant, and though I believe we should be honest in our portrayal … there is something powerful about knowledge. Being straightforward is good … but only if you’re not spending so much time in darkness that you don’t leave room for hope.

Only if you’re causing readers to ask the right questions, answering them in the right way (as much as is appropriate for your story, genre, and audience), and not choosing to drag their minds through 100,000 words of “this life sucks.”

#5: Knowledge is power, and power must be used wisely.

We don’t want to use our portrayal of sin to cause people to sin. That’s a common concern I hear amongst Christian writers and readers, and I get it. I really do. And that’s why I’m writing this section.

A lot of this comes down to audience. Discussing sexual topics with children is inevitably going to raise more questions than answers. You don’t want a ten-year-old coming to their mom after reading their book and going, “Hey, so, this author said that sexual pleasure in marital relationships is good and holy … what is sexual? What is pleasure? What is marital? What is relationships?”

And though as a writer, you want to be raising questions … those are probably not the questions a ten-year-old needs to be asking. Actually, a ten-year-old (as noted) will not have the words to ask these questions, and I think that’s going to lead to them NOT ASKING THEM which is … not good. Because you are essentially causing the exact opposite problem of what I hope to achieve my books – creating repression. We don’t want repression. It’s bad, even (or especially?) for Christians.

We want to inspire only what will be actionably helpful to our audience. We want to ask the questions out there in the open, at the front of our minds, rather than letting them mill about and become sinful in the silent, dark places.

And, at least in my opinion, there are some things that will never be helpful.

To use a specific example, if you’re writing out a sexual scene where you walk the reader, no matter how mature, play by play, through a married couples’ sexual activities, you are not going to be helpful because – though it’s not a sin for these concepts to exist, to acknowledge that they exist, or for the characters to do them – it is a sin to engage in another person’s sex life, even if they are fictional. Plus it’s bad for the brain!

That said, different audiences are going to react differently to different things that are not in and of themselves wrong or anti-Biblical, but may be wrong for the audience depending on how you write them.

For a ten-year-old, having two characters frankly discuss their sexual relationship would probably be harmful no matter how you spin it. A ten-year-old is not ready for that knowledge.

For a twenty-year-old who is on the verge of entering adulthood and dating, it might help them understand why sexual intimacy in marriage is so much better than any other variation that the world can come up with … or it might cause them to stumble as they desire the relationship these characters have & (of their own volition) choose to engage in other sexual activities to chase that feeling.

For a twenty-five-year-old navigating the first years of their marriage, it might be encouraging to see a couple caring about their sexual relationship and prizing it enough to make it their focus. It might have them asking hard questions about how their own relationship is progressing, or how it’s not progressing.

But even a twenty-five-year-old (or an eighty-five-year-old) may have personal convictions, and if they read your book, no matter how carefully written, if it makes them uncomfortable because it violates their personal convictions, they’re not going to like it. As a reader, I hope they’ll have the common sense to take responsibility for having read the book, but some of them are not going to. Some of them are going to react with a, “This book is not Christian enough because of XYZ reasons!”

And I get why. I know that icky feeling of “that shouldn’t have been in my mind” well. I understand how it makes you want to lash out and assign blame. And we can’t avoid that as Christian fiction authors, universally speaking, because everyone has different levels of comfort.

So here’s what you do to try to mitigate (though not eliminate) these effects as an author writing about tough themes for a Christian audience.

It all comes down to appropriate marketing.

But the reader needs to have the personal responsibility of not reading the book if it’s going to harm them, too! Let’s look at that twenty-year-old again. If she, unmarried and inexperienced, would find sexual discussions, no matter how gently written, to be harmful, why is she reading books that feature sexual discussions?

Your only responsibility as an author is to accurately market, but beyond that, if the reader hops into the story without any context and expects it to perfectly fit her needs, and it doesn’t, then she can put the book down … or she can continue to read it and sin. And that’s not really within the author’s control.

That’s why I rarely market my books as “clean” anymore. I want to do my due diligence. And I usually try to put content warnings wherever I can and make it clear with the cadence of the blurb and so on that this is a work of adult fiction. One should hopefully, therefore, expect adult topics of conversation.

Because at the end of the day, we don’t MAKE other people sin as long as we are not deliberately urging people to go against their convictions. That is what the Bible specifically advises against.

We don’t want to invite our friends over to dinner and force them to eat snails if they don’t believe in eating snails. We wouldn’t drag a person who wasn’t comfortable with the subjects discussed in our novels to a book club or hand them a copy if they had specifically said they would not read the novel. And we don’t judge them for that.

So basically, “not causing someone to stumble” would entail:

Not trying to talk people out of their personal convictions or imply that their personal convictions are wrong. (Yes, even if they wear jeans! YOU STILL CAN’T JUDGE THEM.)Not trying to cause believers to stumble on the path they have chosen. (Yes, even if you really want to share your great snail souffle with them, YOU MUST RESTRAIN YOURSELF. Even if your snail souffle is life-changing. Even if it’s the one thing standing between them and greatness. PUT DOWN THE PAN. It’s none of your business!)

A helpful way of thinking about it?

God wants us to help other Christians stick to their personal convictions—even if we don’t feel personally convicted about that thing being sinful. We should always avoid tempting fellow believers into sinning (Romans 15:1).

For example, let’s say your friend has a problem with a certain kind of music. Maybe that music is not inherently evil. But if it is something that would cause your friend to stumble in his faith, it is your duty as a Christian friend to make sure that you are not responsible for exposing him to that kind of music.

(see this full article)

But … here’s another way of viewing the stumbling block situation that may shed light on why I’m not too worried about that with my novels. Essentially, the issue is not “if someone thinks it’s a sin, you must stop doing it immediately!” … it’s “if you’re going to drag someone else who believes otherwise into it, it becomes a sin.”

In the age of the internet, when everything is so wildly accessible to everyone, it must go both ways. The reader is responsible for following their own convictions. The author is responsible for accurately disclaiming when sensitive topics are discussed in their work or on their platforms.

Let’s take this to the logical extreme. If you are going out for a night of drinks on the town (or, because you’re a Christian, a couple drinks that won’t lead to drunkenness, which is not forbidden in the Bible!), and you invite a friend who is against drinking period, but you say to her, “We’re going to be drinking, and you don’t have to come, and if you do, you don’t have to drink,” and that friend still comes, and they sin by going against their convictions and drinking … Well, that’s not wrong.

But if you said to your friend, “You can come along and not drink” and then spent the next couple hours cajoling them to drink … you’d better line up to take some blame. And if you said, “You should come along and drink because your convictions are silly,” well, BLAME. BLAME ON YOU. BLAME ON YOUR WHOLE FAMILY. BLAME ON YOUR COW.

YOU, my friend, YES YOU, have become the bad kind of Proverbs friend. And that sucks. I wish you’d stop. Because evil companions are annoying, and I’d like to invite you to be unfriended.

That said, the fact that you drink when your friend chooses not to does not make you a bad individual. (Maybe I should’ve used a less controversial one, but meh. Drinking in small amounts is not wrong. Jesus made wine. There. I said it. And no, again, this is not to say that your personal convictions are wrong, BUT you owe me the same benefit of the doubt about my personal convictions as I owe you. My personal convictions – despite having had one alcoholic beverage in my entire life and it had like 0.00000001% alcohol – are that it’s not sinful.) Drinking in front of your friends? Teasing them for not drinking? Sending photos of you enjoying a margarita on the beach and looking sooooo much cooler than them? Yeah, let’s put a stop to that RIGHT NOW.

That’s not friendship. That’s bullying. We don’t like bullies.

And this applies to your behavior as an author. Don’t comment on reviews or have a pity party with your friends if someone’s convictions vary from yours. Don’t expect everyone to like your book. Don’t get all up in arms and blame the reader when they feel like your book doesn’t line up with their personal standards.

Sure, they could’ve worded it more nicely. But reviews are all about personal convictions and standards and enjoyment. And guess what? Even if they could’ve avoided it, even if you did your level best to market accurately and disclaim appropriately, there are going to be readers who just didn’t pay attention.

And I get it. It sucks. Every single launch I have features at least a half a dozen readers who are not my target audience talking about how my books overstepped their boundaries. And that’s really good, because we need all types of Christians in this world, and I’m grateful for them.

Further, it helps me tighten up my marketing for next time, understand what I might disclaim better, and helps readers who feel similarly to avoid my books.

Sometimes they state it in ways that I know will not be helpful to most readers – because believe it or not, “fade to black sex scene” has a lot of different meanings from “lusty kissing & undressing leads to the couple falling onto the bed dot dot dot” (I don’t think I’ve ever written anything remotely like this?) to “they kissed once & then the camera shut off but now she’s pregnant so maybe you can guess what happened” (… guilty as charged) – but that’s okay because if God wants my books to be read, He’s going to make it happen. One review or a dozen is not going to make a difference in God’s plan. In fact, it’s a part of God’s plan!

So basically, all y’all CHILL OUT. Everyone’s freaking out. STOP. FREAKING. OUT. *SHAKES YOU* YOU. WILL. BE. OKAY. WHY DON’T YOU BELIEVE EVERYTHING WILL BE OKAY WHEN I SAY IT IN THIS CALM AND REASSURING VOICE!!?!?!

Anyways, you get my point.

Also, all y’all keep talking about Christian fiction books that are too smutty, and just asking for a friend, but like, where do you find these …? Okay, okay, I’m joking. I don’t want to read Christian smut.

But man, am I curious … like, what does it entail? I guess I watched Redeeming Love, but I haven’t read the book, so is the book just like … is it the same? But like, those scenes in a book might’ve been easier to pull off because having Angel be unclothed in a book is a heck of a lot different than having her be unclothed in a movie, so like? Was it …?

Never mind. I don’t want to know.

TTFN!

~Kell~

P.S.

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS? Please tell me someone found this helpful or I am going to be sad. ALSO, this turned into a lot less of a practical article than I intended, so I’ll have to write another one that actually … delves into the topic I promised. I had so much fun with it, though! I love rambling. Anyways. Catch y’all later.

Are you interested in getting to know me & my books better?

I want to invite you to my super secret club. I mean, it’s not really a secret, because I’m telling you about it now, but here goes.

Join Mrs. Roth’s Society Column, my street team! We’d love to have you along for the ride!

About the Gilded Era ~ Like a Ship on the Sea Launch Tour & Giveaway

In today’s post, we’re going to talk about the Gilded Era in America because I think it’s fascinating and because it’s the era I actually remember the most about from school. (Other than eras that happened wayyy before anything I’ve ever written.)

ANYWAYS, because Patrick actually works in an industry (have you noticed all my other American fellas have pretty basic, could-be-done-anywhere jobs? Not intentional, but that’s how it panned out) and has money … also, yeah, apparently the two things I associate with the Gilded Era are industry and money, which is fun.

Before that, here’s the normal launch tour stuff . . .

About Like a Ship on the SeaIf God asks you to confront a storm, how dare you stay in the harbor?

Lady Mary Cassidy O’Connell has a dream that can be summed up in three connecting ideas: a loving husband, adorable children, and a home of her own. Her mother’s lack of care makes life difficult for Cassie, and an escape is necessary. The plan? Marry Aubrey Montgomery, the man her parents have chosen for her, and find the peace she craves.

Unfortunately, Cassie is uneasy about marrying Aubrey. Her apprehension grows as she witnesses her dearest friend’s loving marriage take place. At this wedding, she catches the eye of Patrick Hilton, son of a wealthy American. Like Cassie, he’s also set to marry a woman chosen by his parents—only, Patrick claims, he is content with this choice.

Torn between her desire for happiness and the knowledge that God is leading her in a different direction, Cassie confronts the impossible decision. Is a loveless marriage of obligation better than being alone, or will she set sail on a voyage without a safe harbor?

Like a Ship on the Sea is the first novel in The Hilton Legacy, a stand-alone trilogy featuring characters from the author’s first series, The Chronicles of Alice and Ivy.

AMAZON ~ GOODREADSAbout The Hilton Legacy

The Hilton Legacy will be a trilogy (with perhaps one standalone spin-off, depending on how I decide to do this!) set in 1880s and 1890s America and Europe.

The first novel, Like a Ship on the Sea, which is the one we’re celebrating today, features Patrick Hilton and his eventual love interest, Cassie. Of course, we know all about this novel!

The second novel, Like the Air After Rain, will feature Lorelei Hilton and her love interest and will primarily take place in England. There’s going to be a marriage of convenience angle that will be a lot of fun, methinks!

The second novel, Like Lightning in a Bottle, will feature Gwendolyn Hilton and her love interest and will primarily take place in England and America. This one is a little bit of a wild card, but we’re gonna have fun with it.

The Schedule

Monday, September 4th

“Why You Should Read Like a Ship on the Sea” by Kellyn Roth

Book Spotlight by Abby Johansen

Review by Coralie Terry

Author Interview by Naomi Sowell

Tuesday, September 5th (LAUNCH DAY!)

“All the Launch Day Celebrations” by Kellyn Roth

Book Spotlight by Faith Blum

Book Spotlight by Natasha Joy

Book Spotlight by E. G. Bella

Wednesday, September 6th

“About the Gilded Era” by Kellyn Roth (YOU ARE HERE!)

Review by Anna Galicinski

Review by H.S. Kylian

Review by Cassie Porath

Thursday, September 7th

“Tackling Tough Topics with Tact” by Kellyn Roth

Review by Faith’s Bookshelf

Friday, September 8th

“A Guest Post by Alice Strauss” by Kellyn Roth

Book Spotlight by M.C. Kennedy

Review by Reviews from the Stacks

Book Spotlight by Bizwings Book Blog

Saturday, September 9th

“Introducing the Hiltons of Boston” by Kellyn Roth

Review by The Rivers of Words

Monday, September 11th

“How The Hilton Legacy Fits in with The Chronicles of Alice & Ivy” by Kellyn Roth

Author Interview by Amy Ullrich

Review by Pens, Pages, and Pulses

Author Interview by Jane Mouttet

Book Spotlight by Rhys-Marie Whitnell

Tuesday, September 12th

“All About Book Two, Like the Air After Rain” by Kellyn Roth

Review by Katja H. Labonté

Book Spotlight by Grace A. Johnson

Review by Naomi Sowell

Interview & Review by Saraina Whitney

The Giveaway

Don’t forget to enter the giveaway! There will be a USA and International Winner, so even if you don’t live in my country, ENTER ANYWAY, because I made a prize just for you!

US-Only Giveaway: a signed paperback copy of Like a Ship on the Sea, a themed candle, two bookmarks, three character art prints, a themed charm bracelet, and extra special bonus scenes.

International Giveaway: an ebook copy of Like a Ship on the Sea, extra special bonus scenes, a themed phone wallpaper, and the first chapter of book 2.

ENTER NOW!

Or paste this link into your browser: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/cbb544c921/ 

The Bookish Tag

With the help of Grace A. Johnson (who is way too kind to me), I am hosting a bookish tag! This can be done on any social media profile (or even your blog) and is a fun way to join together to celebrate the launch! Starting today!

I’m doing the prompt on my Instagram and Facebook profiles, and I may try to repost some of these to Twitter, too!

The Prompts

Sept. 4 //  a book set in your dream destination

Sept. 6 // your favorite swoon-worthy romance

Sept. 8 // a book with themes that inspire you

Sept. 11 // a most remarkable heroine

Sept. 13 //  a beloved mentor character

Sept. 15 // a hero with an inspiring arc

Sept. 18 // your favorite fictional sibling dynamic

Sept. 20 // a ship that took you by surprise

Sept. 22 // a theme that touched your heart

Sept. 25 // a series spinoff you loved

Sept. 27 // a topic you love to read about

Sept. 29 // your favorite historical time period

RulesThere are prompts for every other weekday in September, but you’re welcome to share whenever you can and catch up at any time.Feel free to use any social media, including Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, your blog, and Youtube.Share about books that fit into the categories, and have fun!  Don’t forget to use the hashtag #likeashipontheseatag and tag Kellyn (@kellynrothauthor on Instagram & Facebook or @kellyntheauthor on Twitter) to be shared!About the “Gilded Era”

Technically the term is actually “Gilded Age,” but I find it easier to differentiate it as an era, so … well, I’ll refer to it as an age from now on. But I already made the title graphic, so meh.

The term “Gilded Age” was coined by Mark Twain in his book “The Gilded Age: A Tale of Today,” which he co-wrote with Charles Dudley Warner and published in 1873. Twain used the term to describe the period in American history from the 1870s to the early 1900s, and it reflected his satirical view of the era.

The word “gilded” suggests something that appears shiny and golden on the outside but is actually made of inferior materials beneath the surface. Twain used this metaphor to critique the wealth and opulence of the time, which often masked deeper social problems and inequalities.

While some people were amassing enormous fortunes and living lavishly, many others were struggling in poverty and facing harsh working conditions. And, well, that kind of sucks. But it sure gives us a lot of story fodder!

In essence, the Gilded Age was characterized by a stark contrast between the outward appearance of prosperity and the underlying social issues and disparities. It’s a term that has endured in historical discussions to describe this complex and contradictory period in American history.

Picture this: America, late 19th century. The Industrial Revolution was humming along like a well-oiled machine, and fortunes were being made faster than you could say, “I’ll take the private railroad car, please.” This was the Gilded Age, a time of excess, extravagance, and opulence that would make even today’s billionaires do a double-take.

Now, let’s talk social changes.

High society was the place to see and be seen. The Astors, the Vanderbilts, and the Rockefellers were the influencers of their day, and they threw parties that put modern-day galas to shame. If you weren’t invited to a soirée at the Vanderbilt mansion, well, you might as well have been living in a coal mine. *GASP*

But beneath all that glitz and glamour, social unrest was brewing. The wealth gap was wider than ever, and while some were sipping champagne in their ivory towers, others were working 12-hour days in dangerous factories. Labor strikes and protests became more common than spotting a peacock at a Vanderbilt garden party (because for some reason, that was a thing … actually, who am I kidding, I would totally own peacocks if I could).

While the upper crust was living it up, the Gilded Era was also a time of incredible innovation. Thomas Edison gave us the light bulb, Alexander Graham Bell brought us the telephone, and the Wright brothers were building contraptions that would soon become airplanes. It was like a mad scientist’s dream come true.

But let’s not forget the … um … quirky side of progress. This was the era of bizarre inventions like the “electric corset,” designed to shock women into a more svelte figure. Oh, and let’s not forget the bicycle craze that swept the nation, leading to a fashion trend that can only be described as “bloomers gone wild.”

Politics in the Gilded Age were a wild ride. Corruption ran rampant, and one name that stands out is Boss Tweed, the Tammany Hall leader who made the phrase “Tammany tiger” synonymous with political graft. He even had a famous cartoonist, Thomas Nast, on his tail, exposing his shady dealings through satirical illustrations. (Though this isn’t something that Patrick would’ve been familiar with, you can tell he’s already somewhat … disillusioned … with America. And I can’t say I blame him.)

Honestly, a lot of this makes it sound like a modern reality TV show to me, which is why I love it. It’s silly. It’s preposterous. You can just feel this being the backstory of shows set in the Edwardian era (directly after this). Cora Crawley (formerly Levinson) lived in this era, after all … and that’s when she caught her English lord, much as Patrick jokes his sisters want to do!

The completion of the first transcontinental railroad in 1883 connected the east and west coasts of the United States, facilitating commerce and travel. Rail travel became more accessible to the general population as ticket prices dropped, making it a popular mode of transportation for both business and leisure travelers. (This is why I noted that Baldwin & Sons, as opposed to the Hilton Shipping Company, is takin’ names with transcontinental travel over purely ocean-based shipping. Patrick is right … you have to be open to adaptation to grow!)

But of course, trains still weren’t everything. Steamship travel also played a vital role in expanding travel options, especially for coastal and international journeys. Steam-powered ships made ocean travel more reliable and efficient. Steamship lines operated regular passenger services between major American ports and destinations in Europe, Asia, and Latin America. This meant that everyone (and everything) could really get everywhere … and much quicker than ever before!

In my story, I don’t dig very deeply into any one aspect, but I do like to add little details that, if you know some backstory, you can hopefully enjoy!

TTFN!

~Kell~

P.S.

What do you like about the Gilded Age? Dislike? Do you enjoy reading about the era or is it just a boring one to you?

Are you interested in getting to know me & my books better?

I want to invite you to my super secret club. I mean, it’s not really a secret, because I’m telling you about it now, but here goes.

Join Mrs. Roth’s Society Column, my street team! We’d love to have you along for the ride!