Ellen Gable's Blog, page 73

7 Quick Takes Friday – FQP New Book And Other Quick Takes

Please join me and other Catholic bloggers for 7 Quick Takes Friday, this week at Team Whittaker (as Jen is on break!)

1. The Lion’s Heart Now Available on Kindle

The Lion’s Heart by Dena Hunt is now available on Kindle. FQP is releasing the print edition later this month. Check out the new novel website at this link here.

2. Two of My Favorite Authors on Ave Maria Radio

Hey, check out this episode of “Meet the Author” on Ave Maria Radio recently with Dena Hunt and Jason Evert. Check out it out here.

3. Prayer Intentions

First, please join me in praying for the repose of the soul of Fr. Kenneth Walker, a young priest who was murdered a few days ago in Arizona and Fr. Joseph Terra, who was also injured in the attack, but will likely survive. More information here at this Patheos post.

Please also continue to pray for Meriam Ibrahim (who has been sentenced to death for being a Christian and is currently held in prison in Sudan along with her toddler son and newborn daughter). and for the 300 Nigerian schoolgirls who were abducted and are still missing.

Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thine intercession was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me.

Amen.

4. Catholic Writers Conference Live

If you are a writer and are interested in learning more about writing, networking AND your Catholic faith, the 2014 Catholic Writers Conference Live (held in conjunction with the Catholic Marketing Network Trade Show) will be held just outside of Chicago July 30th to August 1st. For more information, check out this press release here and the Conference website here.

5. Father’s Day

Happy Father’s Day to my husband! Check out this previous Father’s Day post from two years ago!

6. St. Anthony Feast Day

Happy Feast of St. Anthony, patron saint of lost things!

7. Man Up Cartoon

image copyright James and Ellen Hrkach (all rights reserved, do not use without permission)

Copyright 2014 Ellen Gable Hrkach

The Lion’s Heart Now Available On Kindle

Full Quiver Publishing, my company, has just released on Kindle a compassionate and compelling story about two men dealing with same sex attraction, The Lion’s Heart, by Dena Hunt. This book has the endorsement of Courage International.

We have also created a new novel page for this book. Check it out here: www.thelionsheart.ca You can read reviews, an excerpt and a synopsis.

First, a synopsis:

Is love ever wrong? Paul Meyer has never let anyone get too close. Until Max. The Lion’s Heart is a heart-rending story about love and sacrifice. The emotional struggle of Paul’s same-sex attraction, the guilt he feels, and his ambivalence toward his Catholic faith all come together in this look inside the heart of a tortured man.

Here’s an excerpt:

“No, it wasn’t the deception, unpleasant as it was, that troubled him. In fact, he simply couldn’t put his finger on it. All he knew that was truly different with Max was that he loved him. And it was that, that single stark truth, which made everything different. He never loved before …. He put the empty wine glass on the balcony floor beside him and tried to find again that mysterious, interior quiet that city noise always brought him. But he felt instead a kind of disquiet that seemed urgent …. Love was never wrong. He’d heard that so often from sincere people, good people … ‘Love is never wrong.’ More than a platitude, it became a mantra. No one could argue with it, not without being judgmental or bigoted. Paul himself always believed it, although he never thought much about it before—never had much reason to think about it. But then, he’d never really loved anyone before….”

Here are a few reviews for The Lion’s Heart:

“Dena Hunt is a consummate storyteller who does not shirk or shy away from the difficult questions about life and love that her story raises. The Lion’s Heart contains not only the loves of lovers, spouses, parents, and children but also the demons and dragons that selfishness unleashes. The Lion’s Heart is not for the faint-hearted, nor is it for the hard-hearted. It pulsates with a passion that will bring true hearts to their knees.”

Joseph Pearce, author of The Unmasking of Oscar Wilde, co-editor of the St. Austin Review

“It may be fiction but The Lion’s Heart reflects a truth that is as real as the sunrise. The moral conflicts and dilemmas are treated with dignity and there are no easy answers, though, thank God, there are answers. The style, beauty, and flow of Dena’s writing speaks for itself. I could not give this book a higher rating, for it is at the top of the charts. I thank Ms. Hunt for having the courage and the beauty of heart to see, feel, and love as she did – for this book is, above all, a work of love. May it be accepted as such.”

A.K. Frailey, author The Deliverance Trilogy http://www.akfrailey.com

“The Lion’s Heart moved me to the core. Dena Hunt managed a rare feat: a delicately crafted novel that is at once a work of beauty and existential weight, and yet forces you to keep reading with all the urgency of a thriller.”

Bernardo Aparicio Garcia, Publisher, Dappled Things

“Whatever side of the controversy you call home, this book is a game-changer. With The Lion’s Heart, Dena Hunt gives us a compassionate story courageously told, depicting the truth in all its dimensions. Readers will never be the same, and with The Lion’s Heart, the landscape of faith-based fiction is changed forever.”

Erin McCole Cupp, author, Don’t You Forget About Me

“Dena Hunt conveys some of the very real struggles of those persons who have same-sex attractions (SSA), especially the shame, confusion, and misery that can accompany such feelings. She shows how that suffering can affect family and friends. The path to understanding homosexuality requires abundant patience, prudence, and good will because the topic is not primarily a controversial cultural issue, but rather a complex personal reality. It is one for which there is not one simple or general explanation – or response. This novel gives us a glimpse into the lives and hearts of those touched by SSA who are striving to understand themselves, and so to love genuinely after the example of Jesus Christ and the teachings of His Church.”

Rev. Paul Check, Executive Director, Courage International

“If I had not been familiar with Dena’s writing, I would have passed on this novel due to the subject matter. I read the book because I know Dena as a daily Mass communicant and fellow parishioner. I know I can trust her to have something meaningful to say and to say it in a beautiful way. “The Lion’s Heart” does not disappoint. The topic of same sex attraction might be troublesome at first but Dena goes for the heart of the human condition. She writes about the universal conditions of desire, betrayal, contrition, and forgiveness. As a devout Catholic she includes characters we will all recognize, showing us their shortcomings as well as their redeeming qualities. At the core of it all is a human heart made in God’s image to be redeemed only by our loving God.”

Deacon Paul Worth, Texas

If you would like a FREE Kindle copy, please leave a comment below or email me: fullquiverpublishing(at)gmail.com

Don’t You Forget About Me FREE on Kindle Today Through Thursday

Who doesn’t love FREE books? Erin McCole Cupp’s Don’t You Forget About Me is FREE today through Thursday on Kindle.

Excerpt:

“Doesn’t signing in at the Technology Annex check-in desk blow the whole cloak-and-dagger bit?” I asked.

Gene furrowed his brow for a moment. “I’m not looking for cloak-and-dagger. I just want to buy enough time to get some answers and put a stop to whatever is making people sick. But Mary Catherine—I don’t know what kind of wasp nest we might be kicking at here.”

“Nice image.” My stomach knotted.

Gene gently but firmly grasped me by my upper arms. “I’m not kidding. If what our coffee shop friend said is true…”

I picked up where he trailed off, “Then Walkerville wasps carry some pretty wicked stingers.”

Gene nodded. “I’m willing to give it all to find the truth. I’m not sure I want you to.”

He was right. This wasn’t picking up rocks in Quaker Creek and looking for water pennies. This was digging up what two potentially deadly forces—Big Pharma and The Mob—wanted kept buried. I forced myself to look directly into his eyes. “Search softly,” I said, “and poke with a big stick.”

Reviews:

“Don’t You Forget About Me…is a rollicking fun and exciting cozy murder mystery. I found it genuine and fascinating in every way: the characters, the setting, the plot, and the twists. The author’s strong and clever command of the written language makes this book an entertaining page-turner. Don’t You Forget About Me is well- plotted with never a dull moment. From a narrow escape from a window, to a gunfire-in-the-woods scene, this novel will have you reading with bated breath. Fans of Christian fiction will particularly enjoy the elements of faith that add to the richness of the story without hampering the plot. Fallen away from the Catholic faith of her childhood, Cate encounters not preaching, but simple, strong faith in action, even in the face of deadly adversity. I recommend this highly-enjoyable, cozy, clean, lively mystery to all readers!” Therese Heckenkamp, award-winning author, Frozen Footprints

“Mary Catherine Whelihan leaves her hometown– and the gruesome memory of discovering a dead body– to become a successful author. When she reluctantly shows up for her class reunion, she finds herself running for her life. Don’t You Forget About Me is a quirky, fun, mystery-romance that will tickle your funny bone while making your hair stand on end.” AnnMarie Creedon, author, Angela’s Song

“This captivating murder mystery made me laugh, cry, and crave Italian food; ‘80s pop tunes are still stuck in my head. If you like mysteries that offer a good mix of suspense and science, don’t miss this book.” Barb Szyszkiewicz, “Franciscan Mom” http://www.franciscanmom.com

“As a reader whose preferred genre is non-fiction, I hardly expected to find myself so completely engrossed in Don’t You Forget About Me. The book has all the elements of a good novel, with its principal charm resting in Erin McCole-Cupp’s affable and believable characters. I read Don’t You Forget About Me in a single sitting, and then put the book down with the wistful feeling of someone departing a gathering of friends.” Celeste Behe, writer

“It’s easy to identify and sympathize with protagonist Cate Whelihan as she returns to her hometown and faces not only the classmates who bullied her in school but also her junior high sweetheart and fellow nerd, Gene. But before the might-have-been couple has time to ponder the what-might-yet-be, scary things start to happen. Suspicious deaths. High incidence of cancer among Cate’s classmates. Living in denial by some. Fear of speaking out by others. Should Cate and her ex even bother trying to help the people who rejected them so many years ago? Readers will be chuckling one moment as Cate tries to wisecrack her way through social awkwardness, and biting nails the next as she faces threats, corrupt police, and the business end of a gun.” Daria Sockey, Author, ‘The Everyday Catholic’s Guide to the Liturgy of the Hours’

“I could not put the book down! What a fast-paced, intriguing, captivating story line – full of surprises! The characters are so very real … Do yourself a favor …. crack open your copy of Don’t You Forget About Me. You will be glad that you did.” Mike Seagriff, Author

Download Don’t You Forget About Me for FREE today through Thursday (June 10-12, 2014) at this link: Don’t You Forget About Me Kindle Edition

My Writing Process Blog Tour

Special thanks to Erin McCole Cupp for tagging me in “My Writing Process Blog Tour.”

1) What am I working on?

I just finished the edits for the next FQP novel, The Lion’s Heart by Dena Hunt, which is set to be released in the next few days on Kindle. The print edition will be coming a little later this month.

As well, I’m currently working on two separate novels of my own: Julia’s Gifts, a Christmas novella set to be published on Kindle 2015 and the third O’Donovan Family novel (as yet untitled) which is currently in the outline, characterization stage. I’m continuing the marketing/promotion stage of my fifth book, A Subtle Grace (O’Donovan Family).

2) How does my work differ from others of its genre?

I actually write in a couple of different genres, but if I had to name one, I’d say “Religious Fiction.” How does it differ from others? It’s probably more Catholic than most in this genre.

3) Why do I write what I do?

I write religious fiction because I not only want to entertain readers, I want to give them a positive, life-affirming message. I like to call it Edutainment (although I didn’t actually come up with that word).

4) How does your writing process work?

Depending on what I’m working on…if it’s a new novel, I develop an outline and character studies first. This takes the longest, sometimes two years (given I am usually working on 10 projects at one time). Writing the actual story, for me, is the easiest part of the novel writing process. Editing and polishing are the hardest.

I’m “tagging” the following two writers who will be taking part in the Writing Process Blog Tour next week. Please visit them!

Ann Frailey:

A. K. Frailey is a wonderful writer and homeschooling mother of eight children. Here’s the bio from her website:

Ann has a B. S. in Elementary Education and has taught in Milwaukee, WI, Chicago, IL, Los Angeles, CA, Wood River, IL and for Peace Corps in the Philippines. She was married to John Frailey who was an educator for many years. John died from cancer complications December 2013. Ann has eight children and she home educates them while maintaining a mini-farm. Ann devotes her time to writing books that delve into the deep questions of life while entertaining the reader with reflections on the human condition. She is a grateful mother and enjoys spending her time with her children, extended family, and friends.

Imogen Elvis:

Imogen blogs at http://imogenelvis.blogspot.com.au/ and this is what she says about herself:

“I am a nineteen year old Australian writer. While currently unpublished, I am working on publishing a Young Adult Fantasy novel in the future. I study writing, and am in my second year of a degree in Professional Writing and Publishing, with the aim of working as an editor. As well as writing, I also enjoy blogging about reading, writing, and procrastination. You can find me at my blog Gossiping with Dragons. In my spare time I explore imaginary worlds, defeat dragons and eating chocolate while curling up with a good book.”

7 Quick Takes Friday – Musical, Review, Photos Etc.

Please join me and other Catholic bloggers at Conversion Diary for 7 Quick Takes Friday.

1. My Fair Lady

Two Rivers Musicals presents My Fair Lady tonight and tomorrow night. My husband, James, is Alfred P. Doolittle. Ticket information is at this link.

2. Catholic Writers Conference Live

If you’re a writer and interested in networking with other Catholic writers, please consider attending the Catholic Writers Conference Live to be held outside of Chicago July 30-August 1, 2014. For more information, check out this press release.

To register, click this link.

3. A Subtle Grace Review

I would like to thank Trisha Niermeyer Potter for this outstanding review of A Subtle Grace! I’m always happy when a reader or reviewer enjoys my books. I am especially grateful that Trisha appreciated and understood the underlying themes. Here is what she had to say:

“This is one of my favorite contemporary works of Catholic fiction…The storytelling is masterful, the characters fascinating, and the writing is of high literary quality. People are imperfect—past, present, and future—but each is given the opportunity to grow, change, learn, and be redeemed. In this story it’s shown how the greatest mistake of our lives can be turned into one of the most amazing blessings and even be a source of hope for others. Life’s messy. People are complex. We’ve all got some skeletons in our closets, but that doesn’t mean that we can’t also fit some trophies and triumphs in there as well.”

4. Waterfalls

My son took this beautiful photo.

Photo copyright Josh Hrkach

5. The Lion’s Heart by Dena Hunt

FQP will soon be publishing the second edition of The Lion’s Heart by Dena Hunt, whose novel, Treason, recently won the 2014 IPPY Gold medal in Religious Fiction. The Lion’s Heart is a “different kind of love story” and asks the question: Is love ever wrong? From the back cover synopsis:

Paul Meyer has never let anyone get too close. Until Max. The Lion’s Heart is a heart-rending story about love and sacrifice. The emotional struggle of Paul’s same-sex attraction, the guilt he feels, and his ambivalence toward his Catholic faith all come together in this look inside the heart of a tortured man.

6. Review Shelf

Hijacked by Leslie Lynch

7. Jungle Jim Cartoon

Cartoon copyright Full Quiver Publishing/James & Ellen Hrkach Please do not use without permission

Copyright 2014 Ellen Gable Hrkach

7 Quick Takes Friday – Contest, Column, Review, Prayer Intention, CWCL

Please join me and other Catholic bloggers at Conversion Diary for 7 Quick Takes Friday.

1. ENTER NOW!!

In about 17 hours, the contest for a chance to win all five of my print books at Catholic Sistas closes.

2. God’s Plan for a Joy-Filled Marriage (column)

My recent column at Catholic Mom is entitled “God’s Plan for a Joy-Filled Marriage.” Check it out here. As baptized and confirmed Christian/Catholics, Christ resides in each of us. If we consider the love that Christ gave us when He died on the cross was His freely chosen gift, totally given, faithful to the point of death and that gift was fruitful (redemption of mankind that opened up the gates of heaven), and if we consider that we are called to image Christ, then we must love our spouse in the same way. Click on one of the links above to read the rest.

Photo copyright Josh Hrkach

3. New Review for A Subtle Grace!

Thanks so much to Sarah Reinhard (author and blogger at Snoring Scholar) for this new review for A Subtle Grace: “Do you like historical fiction? Do you like books that are Catholic without, you know, shoving it down your throat? Do you have a few days to spend with Ellen Gable’s latest book? Because, yes, it is the kind of book that will suck you in, hold you captive, and leave you better for having read it. It’s a good story, well told, and I can heartily recommend it.”

4. Sudanese Mother/Doctor Jailed and Sentenced to Death for Religious Beliefs

Not sure if you’ve heard the tragic story of religious persecution over in Sudan of a young mother and doctor, Meriam Ibrahim. She just gave birth to a baby girl and has a toddler boy in prison with her. She has been sentenced to death for her Christian beliefs. Please pray for her and, if you feel called, sign any one of a number of petitions to release her. Here are just a few:

Go Petition

Change.org

White House Petition (To get Obama to intervene…you have to create an account to sign. I tried for over an hour a few nights ago trying to get onto this site, but couldn’t and finally succeeded last night).

5. Catholic Writers Conference Live

Consider attending the upcoming Catholic Writers Conference Live just outside of Chicago. We’ve got great speakers coming and a few surprises too!

6. Reading/Review Shelf

If you have pre-teens, they will love these delightful books!

The Willow Tree by Alexandra Valentien

A Boy in Hiding by Alexandra Valentien

7. NFP Cartoon

Copyright James and Ellen Hrkach Please do not use without permission

And, last but not least, I’d like to wish my younger but taller brother a very happy birthday today!!!

Copyright 2014 Ellen Gable Hrkach

Sunday Snippets – May 25

Photo copyright Ellen Gable Hrkach

Please join me and other Catholic bloggers at RAnn’s Place for Sunday Snippets, where we share posts from the previous week and answer a weekly question.

This week’s question: What are your plans for this summer?

Other than taking it easy, we do have plans to attend the Catholic Writers Conference Live in Chicago. We will also be visiting my extended family down in New Jersey and possibly take a trip to visit the Statue of Liberty.

This week’s posts:

7 Quick Takes Friday – Anniversary, Reviews, Giveaway Two new reviews (thank you, Carol and Jean!!) and a link to a huge giveaway at the Catholic Sistas website.

From the President’s Desk – Inspiration and CWCL A brief post on inspiration and the upcoming Catholic Writers Conference Live in Chicago.

Copyright 2014 Ellen Gable Hrkach

7 Quick Takes Friday – Anniversary, Giveaway, Reviews Etc.

Please join me and other Catholic bloggers at Conversion Diary for 7 Quick Takes Friday.

1. 32nd Anniversary

This past week, my husband and I celebrated our 32nd anniversary. It’s hard to believe we’ve been married that long! We went to breakfast at our favorite diner, spent the morning at the National Gallery in Ottawa, then attended Mass at Notre Dame Cathedral.

2. Review at Catholic Fire

Jean Heimann at Catholic Fire always has wonderful things to say about my books. Her recent review of my newest book is no exception!! Thank you, Jean!

“A Subtle Grace is excellent read for historical romance fans. Those who enjoy Christian romance and suspense novels will find this story particularly enjoyable. This is a winner!”

3. Review at Simple Catholic Living

Special thanks to Carol at Simple Catholic Living for this lovely review of A Subtle Grace.

“…a few pages in, I was hooked! As usual, Ellen does a wonderful job portraying realistic, memorable characters and touching on delicate subjects in a sensitive, caring manner. She also weaves authentic Catholic teaching seamlessly throughout the novel, without being preachy or overbearing.”

4. Giveaway of All Five of My Books

Would you like to win all five of my print books?? Go to Catholic Sistas and enter at this link. Or click the picture below. One lucky winner will win all five books!

5. Catholic Writers Conference Live

Are you a Catholic writer? Would you like to be inspired by great talks and network with fellow Catholic writers? Come join us at the Catholic Writers Conference Live, which is being held in conjunction with the Catholic Marketing Network Trade Show just outside of Chicago this summer. For more information, check it out at this link.

6. Reading/Review Shelf

Catholic Mom’s Cafe – Donna Marie Cooper O’Boyle

7. Status Update Cartoon

copyright James and Ellen Hrkach Please do not use without permission

copyright 2014 Ellen Gable Hrkach

7 Quick Takes Friday – May 16

Please join me and other Catholic bloggers at Conversion Diary for 7 Quick Takes Friday.

1. Catholic Writers Conference Live

Are you a Catholic writer? Would you like to hear great talks? Come join us at the Catholic Writers Conference Live, which is being held in conjunction with the Catholic Marketing Network Trade Show just outside of Chicago this summer. For more information, check it out at this link.

2. Erin McCole Cupp – Interview at Catholic Fiction

One of Full Quiver’s authors, Erin McCole Cupp, who wrote the lively and entertaining Don’t You Forget About Me, is featured over at CatholicFiction.net with a wonderful, insightful and interesting interview. Check it out here.

3. Happy Wedding Day to Elle and Jack!!

My cousin’s daughter (Elle) is marrying her sweetheart (Jack) today! Elle is my namesake and an amazing young woman! I wish we could’ve attended the happy nuptials, but unfortunately, we couldn’t. We’re there in spirit, though! And take a look at their wedding website!! Congratulations to two amazing people! We wish you the most wonderful wedding day and a lifetime of love and joy!

4. The Twilight Zone

One of my favorite classic TV shows is The Twilight Zone. One of my sons bought me Season 1 for my birthday and I’ve been thoroughly enjoying it (I’ve been watching episodes while on the elliptical). This was a show that was ahead of its time in many respects…from the unusual and creepy opening music, to the relevant topics and brilliant writing. It was also a favorite of my father’s and we often watched the show together when it first aired.

5. Ellen Lane Street Sign

Remember last year at this time? My husband had a run in with the law trying to take a photo of this sign. I asked and, like the dutiful husband he is, he obliged. Read all about it here.

photo copyright Ellen Gable Hrkach

6. Review Shelf

“The Paradise Tree” – Elena Maria Vidal (to be published in the Fall)

“The Beauty of Faith: Using Christian Art To Spread the Good News” - Jem Sullivan PhD.

7. How NFP Couples Celebrate An Anniversary (Cartoon)

copyright 2013 James and Ellen Hrkach (Please do not use without permission)

Copyright 2014 Ellen Gable Hrkach

7 Quick Takes Friday – March for Life, Movie Reviews, Mother’s Day

Please join me and other Catholic bloggers at Conversion Diary for 7 Quick Takes Friday, where we share seven quick posts!

1. March for Life Canada

LifeSiteNews reports there were over 23,000 on Parliament Hill yesterday for the annual March for Life! (For Canada’s lower population, this is outstanding!!) Unfortunately, I missed it again because of illness, but my second oldest son and his friend were present and had an opportunity to meet and chat with chastity speaker Jason Evert and take a cool photo with him!

2. Kidnapped Nigerian Girls

I’ve been praying for the young girls who have been kidnapped by a radical group claiming that Allah “told” them to sell the girls because the girls wanted an education. On Twitter and Facebook, I’ve been using the hashtag #BringBackOurGirls to bring awareness to their plight. You can also go to this website and spiritually “adopt” one of the girls and specifically pray for her, if you wish. (My girl’s name is Tabitha Pogu.) Jesus, Mary and Joseph, keep Tabitha safe and bring her and all the kidnapped Nigerian schoolgirls to their families.

3. A Subtle Grace

Thank you to all who have already downloaded or bought a print copy of my new book, A Subtle Grace (O’Donovan Family)!

4. Mini Movie Review – God’s Not Dead

Overall, I loved this movie! Premise: College student Josh (Shane Harper) shows up for the first day of sociology class with a atheist, radical professor (Kevin Sorbo) who commands all the students to write down on a piece of paper “God’s Dead,” then sign it. Josh, who is a Christian, can’t do it. The professor, clearly angry that Josh won’t sign the paper, tells Josh that he will fail the course if he cannot prove to the class that God is not dead. The story and writing were outstanding, most of the actors were also outstanding (especially Sorbo and Dean Cain) and I enjoyed the Newsboys’ and Willie Robertson’s appearances. Highly recommend! (4.5 out of 5)

5. Mini Movie Review – Heaven is For Real

Last year, I read the book “Heaven is For Real” by Pastor Todd Burpo about the experiences of his then four year old son, who was critically ill and who claims to have visited heaven. It’s a compelling read. The movie was a bit slow moving for me, and had the “Fireproof” and “Courageous” feel to it. The acting was outstanding, especially by the young boy who played Colton and Greg Kinnear as Todd was also excellent. Overall, I enjoyed it very much and would highly recommend it to all. (4 out of 5 stars.)

6. Review Shelf

Something Other than God – Jennifer Fulwiler

7. Mother’s Day Cartoon

Image copyright James and Ellen Hrkach Please do not use without permission

Copyright 2014 Ellen Gable Hrkach