Matthew James Elliott's Blog

PenWorks of the Word | Featured Author | Mark Charles Powers

Greetings, 
I am excited to introduce today's featured author, Mark Charles Powers. His new book, His Eyes, comes out tomorrow. Yep, you read that right. Chances are you've read this on 10/13, which was the planned release day for his book. One of the things I look forward to as a writer is connecting with other like-minded authors. Mark is one of those authors I feel like I could talk to for hours about anything.  

There is a spirit woven into his work that resonates with people from all different paths of life. But, as always, I don't want to take up too much of his time, so without further ado.... Let's dive into his wonderful article describing 5 lessons he has learned about being an author.  

See you in the "digital" pages.

M.J.E. 

~~~

Ecstasy dropped on me from the sky in May 2020 when a novel poured out of me in three months. Next week, “His Eyes: A Novel of Hope from Tragedy” will be released. This past Saturday, ecstasy visited again when the proof copies arrived in my mailbox. The five and a half years in between? Lots of agony laced with a little ecstasy. 

“If you want to be a fiction writer,” they said, “write your first novel, then throw the thing away.” 

No way that applies to me, I thought. My book is good, even though it’s my first one.

“Once you trash your first novel,” they said, “write a second book, then take two years to edit and rewrite. Self-publish your book. But expect to put a lot of money and time into marketing.”

No way that applies to me, I thought. My book is ready for the big time with a lucky traditional publisher.

“If your self-published book is fairly successful,” they said, “write a third book. Hire a writing coach and spend a year editing and re-writing together.” 

No way that applies to me, I thought. My book is ready now. 

And finally, they said, “Don’t make the mistake of taking shortcuts because you think you received a direct command from God to write your book.” 

No way that applies to me, I thought. God truly gave me this story and told me to write it. I’ll do whatever it takes to make the book available to people who need hope.

~~~

So, who is “THEY?” Oh… just every speaker, conference leader, online consultant, blogger, writing coach, literary agent, successful novelist I have met, or heard, or read in the last five years.

UPDATE: Five-and-a-half years after beginning my novel, 

“His Eyes” releases this Friday, October 17 (as of 10/12).

“THEIR” advice applied to me, after all. Despite my protests, I listened, took it to heart, and stuck with it. Hey, guess what? I’m a seventy-year-old author with a debut novel. Ecstasy!

The agony came from learning hard lessons and putting in long hours to put those lessons into practice. But out of the agony came ecstasy… and a weekly blog called *Glimpses of Grace.* You are reading that blog right now. 

~~~

Ecstasy from Agony- Five Lessons Learned From Writing “His Eyes”:

First lesson learned: Fiction writing differs completely from non-fiction writing.

In 2013, I wrote a non-fiction book urging Christian worship leaders to revitalize worship, make disciples, and lead them on mission: "GOING FULL CIRCLE” book (markcharlespowers.com). I wrote the book in three months, had it edited, hired a proofreader/typesetter, found a publisher, and had the published book in my hand nine months after I started writing. Turns out, fiction writing is nothing like that experience. Agony.

Second lesson learned: Writing a novel is akin to creating a panoramic sculpture. 

The creative act of sculpting begins with a large block of plaster. The sculptor brings the panoramic background and the characters to life, just as the novelist does. But as a novelist, my dust-filled, tool-strewn studio is all in my mind. On any given day - depending on my frame of mind - my mental workspace can feel spacious or cramped, peaceful or frantic. Regardless, I keep chiseling away to bring my story to life. 

Third lesson learned: A clear sense of divine calling and purpose is crucial to success.

My dream of writing a novel began in early 2020. Writing seemed a viable way to remain engaged in ministry from atop our mountain, looking toward retirement. I longed to continue my lifelong ministry of encouragement and guidance. In May of that year, God gave me a story idea of hope revealed through tragedy. “His Eyes” came pouring out of my heart and mind. Through every setback in bringing the book to reality, God led, inspired, and provided just what I needed when I needed it. 

Fourth lesson learned: Writing, like every artistic endeavor, must first be a science before it can become art.

As a lifelong music director, I’m an expert at the science of building an excellent choir or orchestra. So why didn’t I realize how many guidelines, rules, techniques, etc. must be present in excellent writing? Sadly, I didn’t take the time to learn. I was destined to follow THEIR advice, anyway. When my first novel releases next week, it will, in truth, be the fourth edition of the original written in 2020. Here’s how:

I wrote Draft One and sent it to 85 literary agents. The result? 85 rejections. I discarded Draft One. Online writing courses became my passion.

I wrote Draft Two and sent it to several review services. The reviewers ripped it apart. I discarded Draft Two. In-person writing conferences became my passion.

I wrote Draft Three and found a publisher. We signed a publishing contract. Their editor stripped my manuscript from 63,000 words to 45,000 words. Then we disagreed on how to handle controversial elements in the storyline. We only agreed on one thing—to annul the contract and part ways. I discarded Draft Three. My passion became contemplating my ‘loss of passion for writing’. Agonizing.

I hired a Writing Coach. Larry J. Leech II, coach extraordinaire, has become a treasured friend and mentor. He looked at my misshapen lumps of plaster and began teaching me to sculpt fiction. The passion for writing returned.

Our first rewrite began in July 2023 and continued through April 2024. We began with the science of fiction writing. Many nights, I felt like a sculptor working on a single facial expression or the curve of a finger. To perfect a deeply moving story, I crafted and re-crafted dialogue, descriptions, characters, plot, setting, story, grammar, punctuation, phrasing, flow, and so much more. In the summer of 2024, I added journal entries from the protagonist’s mom, along with more scenes and descriptions to bring it back to 66,500 words. Then, Hurricane Helene and Larry’s hip surgery put us on hold. Agonizing.

Our final rewrite began in February 2025 and concluded in July. After presenting the novel to a top literary agent—and another rejection—I decided to self-publish. Then, I personally recorded the audiobook so you could hear it the way I hear it. And I hired a host of wonderful specialists to help me make it happen. Next week it happens!

Fifth lesson learned: Sculpting a novel is addictive.

Coach Larry told me: “Writing is 10% ‘brain dump’ (ecstasy), but 90% editing and re-writing (agony).” He never shared how addictive re-writing can be, despite the agony. The joy of sculpting my panoramic story with smooth, flowing, proportionate lines is extremely fulfilling and fun. Seeing the story come alive through powerful, effective writing is ecstasy for me.

I pray “His Eyes” will bring you a little ecstasy, as well.

MCP 

~~~

Order “His Eyes: A Novel of Hope From Tragedy” beginning Friday, October 17, from Amazon. Available in paperback, hardcover, Kindle eBook, or audiobook. Thanks.

Mark Powers’ bio: From high atop a mountain in Western North Carolina, Mark shares *Glimpses of Grace* revealed in ordinary lives. He is a choral director, church musician, writer, blogger, novelist, and a little-better-than-bogey golfer. His wife, Kay, a lifelong educator and mentor to many, serves as Mark's encourager and unofficial editor. Stormy the Cat chimes in.

PenWorks of the Word | Featured Book Review | Leading Philippi - Jenifer Jennings

Greetings, 

As we continue this blog tour, one of the things I wanted to do was write a few book reviews. I mean, we are all here wanting to learning about books and read them, right? Well... I think that's part of it anyway. Today's review is for a book called Leading Philippi, and it is a Biblical Fiction Novel written by our Jenifer Jennings. Yes, that is the same Jenifer Jennings who gave us an interview to start this whole tour off. 

Today, 10/10/25, is launch day for her book, and I was blessed to receive an advance copy of it to review. The review you are about to read is my honest review of this wonderful addition to the world of Biblical Fiction.

Let’s dive into this one, and I’ll see you in the ‘digital’ pages.

~~~

Overall Rating:  ★★★★★
Overall Description:
In the raging sea of fear, Epaphroditus finds his faith.

In the bustling colony of Philippi, Epaphroditus, the son of a traveling merchant, finds himself ensnared in the threads of destiny. Blessed with wealth and privilege, his life is shadowed by a prophecy whispered by one of Aphrodite’s priestesses: a grim fate aboard a ship awaits Epaphroditus.
Living vicariously through his best friend Luke, a compassionate physician traversing the seas to aid the afflicted, Epaphroditus grapples with the threat of mortality and the uncertainty of his future. When a bold traveler named Paul arrives, bearing tales of a humble craftsman from Nazareth named Jesus, Epaphroditus finds himself drawn into a journey of faith.
Join Epaphroditus on his extraordinary odyssey, where he discovers the transformative power of grace and the strength to battle fear with faith. Dare to embark on a journey that will stir your soul and ignite your faith as the letter of Philippians comes to life in Leading Philippi, Book 1 of the Paul’s Patrons series.
My Review of the Book:

Jenifer Jennings' novel, Leading Philippi, which releases on 10/10/25, is a deeply engaging and historically powerful story that brings the early Christian community of Philippi to life in a fascinating way. As someone given early access to this story, and who writes biblical fiction myself, I consider it a privilege to be among the first to review this wonderful addition to the Biblical Historical Fiction genre.

It was clear to me from the beginning that the author did her research. The way she brings the city of Philippi to life is nothing short of masterful. As I was reading, I could practically visualise the streets of the city, and the small merchant shops as Epaphroditus and the other characters walked up to them. The way Jennings describes a scene, or a detail on a character's face, showed me the story as it unfolded before my eyes. Leading Philippi is not one of those historical novels that offer a dry account of how the early church lived and breathed. 

The author transports the reader into the story almost as if they are watching it on the big screen. When it comes to the character-driven aspects of this novel, the relationship between Luke and Epaphroditus was probably one of my favorite aspects of the story.  It provides a compelling anchor to the narrative, and the richness continues beyond that. The intricate details are beautifully present through every character relationship the author brings to life.  

Beyond the historical setting and the character-driven aspects of this story, Leading Philippi offers profound encouragement and depth. While I will not reveal any spoilers in this review, I will say that Epaphroditus struggles with some pretty strong fears throughout the narrative, and I felt like Jennings did a phenomenal job conveying the impact of those struggles on the page. The struggles felt real and relatable on so many levels, and when you come to the end of the adventure these characters embark upon in Philippi, and other ancient cities, you’ve learned something along the way about yourself, too. 

Jennings expertly weaves this story together with a steady flow that brings every aspect of the narrative together in a meaningful way. This craftsmanship, combined with the deep spiritual matters she went into as she told this story, pulled me into a world that I truly felt was authentic, and I can’t wait to continue reading the series. Leading Philippi is a captivating read that I am already reading for a second time. 

 

I highly recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys biblical fiction. This review is written entirely of my own accord.

~~~

Matthew (also known by his pen names M.J. Elliott and E.M. James) is an award-winning, dedicated writer with a deep passion for sharing the word of Christ. He is married and the proud father of three wonderful children who continually inspire his faith and creativity. Through his writing, Matthew seeks to minister with love, equip others with encouragement, and help readers encounter God in real and meaningful ways.

PenWorks of the Word | Featured Author | D. T. Powell

Greetings, 

Welcome to another post from the PenWorks of the Word Blog Tour. As always, we are ALL thrilled you have found your way here. One of the types of posts I hoped would be written for this event is what I have affectionately called Devotional Blogs. When at least one of the featured authors said they wanted to do so, it was encouraging. 

Today's featured Author, D. T. Powell, is the first author to write one. One thing you will learn from her devotional blog is that D. T. doesn't shy away from hard truths. Sometimes the hard truths are hard to hear, but we cannot let that keep us from voicing them. Again, I don't want to take up any more of your time today, so without further ado... Here is her devotional.

See you in the "digital" pages, 

M.J. E

~~~

Evil surrounds us. 

Not surprising. We live in a fallen world, after all. Terrorism, abuse of every variety, faithlessness, racism and prejudice, idolatry, all forms of sexual sin, pride, greed, and every other twisted thing imaginable are alive and well in this sin-cursed existence. 

Since the beginning of time, evil has tried to outwit God. Satan himself attempted it (Is. 14:12-14), even taking a third of the angels with him when God cast him from Heaven. (Rev. 12:4) 

That was just the start of Satan’s attempts to frustrate God and His goodness. He successfully tempted Adam and Eve to disobey the very Creator of all existence. As a result, we’re all born with a sin nature that constantly pulls us away from God.

But can evil truly frustrate God’s plans?

A story I love spending time with includes multiple villains who hate one another. They all want power and can’t stand the thought of being outmaneuvered by their competitors. Not one of them fears God or has any intention of helping Him. In fact, they’ve targeted the story’s heroes—whose ranks include a number of Christians—and intend to wipe them out.

Each villain crafts intricate plans and tells them to no one. But the God of all things knows every fleeting thought and intention, and He uses evil’s own plots, not just to foil it, but to preserve His own and glorify Himself. 

Romans 11:33-34 (KJV) says, 

“O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor?”

The clear answer to the questions in verse thirty-four is “no one.” Not a single created being has ever fully comprehended the mind of our eternal God, and not a single one ever can. Because we can’t fully fathom God’s thoughts, we can’t anticipate or even understand everything He does. As a result, He surprises us with unexpected blessings, provision, and deliverance. 

Isaiah the prophet wrote, 

“Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding.” (Is. 40:28 KJV)

God regularly accomplishes what humans consider impossible, and one day, He will accomplish yet another impossibility. He will purge Sin, Death, and Satan himself from this world. He will forever defeat Evil, and Christ will rule at the right hand of the Father throughout Eternity. (Rev. 11:15)

So, even in the midst of this evil-saturated world, we can take heart in two truths. Evil is not forever. But while it exists, God is not frustrated by it, and He can accomplish the impossible despite it. 

~~~

D. T. Powell, author of the critically acclaimed, award-winning novel With Mercy's Eyes, has delved into difficult subjects through fiction for over a decade. Her work in both fanfiction and original fiction showcases how God's persistent light shines even through the darkest of moments. Her original short fiction has appeared in Writer's Digest and various short story collections from small presses. Also, her many top-quality book reviews are published quarterly in Clean Fiction Magazine. She enjoys reading, playing pickleball, and the occasional video game. You can find her online as dtill359. Her favorite verse is Psalm 126:5, “They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.”

~~~

Links:IG: https://www.instagram.com/dtill359/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100039385217526GR: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/25468801.D_T_PowellAmazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/D.-T.-Powell/author/B0BRNVYD31Archive of Our Own (fanfiction site): https://archiveofourown.org/users/dtill359/profileWebsites: https://www.dtpowellwrites.com       https://www.withmercyseyes.comDirect link to With Mercy’s Eyes: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F2SQXC8M

 

PenWorks of the Word | Featured Author | Jenifer Jennings

Greetings,

Welcome to the PenWorks of the Word Blog Tour. I'm thrilled you have found your way here. It is exciting to see how this event has come together, and today's featured author is Jenifer Jennings. I don't want to take up any more of your time, so without further ado... Here is an interview with her about her upcoming book, Leading Philippi, which is set to release on Friday, 10/10... I will be posting a review of this wonderful addition to Biblical Fiction on launch day. 

See you in the "digital" pages, 

M.J.E. 

~~~
Hello there, my name is Jenifer Jennings, and I am a passionate storyteller who brings ancient worlds to life through Biblical historical novels. I’ve been a devoted student of Scripture since coming to faith in Jesus at seventeen, and I hold a bachelor’s degree in Women’s Ministry and a master’s degree in Biblical Languages Exegesis. I’m an active member of Word Weavers International, serving as an online chapter president, and am a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). When I’m not writing, I’m usually on a date with my husband or mothering our two children, a wise-cracking mathematician and a feisty artist.
I’m delighted to share with you a little about myself and my writing journey. Let’s jump right into the interview. 
How does your faith journey intersect with your passion for writing?My faith journey and writing passion are completely intertwined. It is my longing to explore the depths of God’s Word that drives my desire to write stories about the people and events I discover there. Every time I write, God shows up to teach me something about my faith journey. My prayer is to share that journey with readers through my stories. 
How do you balance the demands of being a writer with your spiritual disciplines and relationship with God?Balance is a constant goal I strive for in every area of my life. None more so than in my walk with God and my writing. The more I study God’s Word and seek after Him, the more He ignites my imagination and drive to share my stories with the world. While I’m not always the best at keeping both in harmony, God weaves Himself into these areas and draws me closer to Him.
How do you ensure that your work is not only well-written but also biblically sound?The best way I know to make sure my writing is biblically sound is to build on a great foundation. There is no better author than God. When I begin a new story, I always start by seeking what the Bible has to say first. Whether that be timelines, people, or places, I lay God’s Word as the bedrock. Then, I research as much as I can. There are mounds of archeological and historical evidence waiting to be explored, though sometimes there are gaps or contradictory information. Once I’ve built these two foundations, I layer fictional details to construct a good story that I pray blesses the reader.
What do you hope readers will take away from your writing, beyond just the words on the page?The biggest thing I hope readers take away from my writing is that the same God who shows up in these incredible stories is the same God who desires to show up and show off in their lives. I truly believe that God wants to step into readers’ life stories just as much as He stepped into the lives of people like Abraham, Rebekah, Paul, Phoebe, and all the other incredibly ordinary people whose stories grace the pages of Scripture. 
What has been one of the most unexpected or rewarding parts of sharing your writing with the world? One of the most rewarding parts of writing is getting to hear from readers. When they tell me after finishing one of my books, the very next thing they did was pick up their Bible and read about the person or events, it blesses my heart and soul. I’m always striving to draw people back to Scripture, and when someone says they’ve read a passage a hundred times, then it came alive for them while reading my book or hearing me teach, my heart practically does a happy dance. That’s the moment I know God’s Word is truly alive and active for them.
If you could go back and give your younger self one piece of advice about writing and faith, what would it be?If I could send a message to my younger self, I would tell her to pay much better attention in English class. While in school, I could unveil the hidden meanings in countless literary works, but I couldn’t spell to save my life. Once, in high school, I had to write and present a research paper about a historical figure. Throughout the entire presentation, I referred to President Thomas Jefferson as “Thomas.” 
My teacher held me back after class, and I was mortified while he (justly) critiqued my writing and told me that we never refer to historical figures as if they were our BFF. Praise God for spellcheck and grammar programs of today. Needless to say, I resented History and English for a while. Thankfully, God has an incredible sense of humor and molded me into a Historical Fiction writer just so He could get all the glory.
Thank you so much for allowing me the opportunity to share a little about myself and my work. I look forward to connecting with you in the future. 
My newest release, “Leading Philippi,” as well as my entire backlist of Biblical Fiction novels, are available wherever you get your favorite reads. 
You can connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube by searching: @authorjeniferjennings
If you would enjoy having a monthly encouraging newsletter filled with deep devotionals, behind the scenes looks, and giveaways, you can sign up for my newsletter and get a free short story: www.jeniferejennings.com/newsletter

PenWorks of the Word Give-A-Way

Greetings,

The moment we've been waiting for is almost here…

✨ The PenWorks of the Word Blog Tour is hosting a King Sumo Giveaway — and you're invited!

🗓 Giveaway Timeline

Launch: Tuesday, October 14 at 5:00 PM CSTClose: Saturday, November 1 at 5:00 PM CSTWinner Announcement: Sunday, November 9 via emailTotal Winners: Multiple Participants!

🎁 How It Works
Starting October 14, you’ll be able to enter the giveaway by checking things out down below. Each action—whether following our featured authors on social media or joining their email lists—earns you additional entries.

Once the giveaway closes, all entries will be compiled, and winners will be selected. Each winner will get to choose from their top three prize preferences. Prizes will be delivered via email or shipped directly to a U.S. mailbox.

📚 What’s Up for Grabs?
eBooks or signed physical copies of award-winning books, multiple copies of fan favorites, and more surprises from our generous authors. It’s going to be a joyful celebration of story and community—and we’d love for you to be part of it!

See you in the pages,

Matthew

PenWorks of the Word Blog Tour Line Up

Greetings,

I’m thrilled to announce the author lineup for the PenWorks of the Word Blog Tour! Throughout October, we’ll be journeying alongside writers from a variety of genres—Biblical Fiction, Christian Fantasy, Historical Romance/Fiction, Speculative Fiction, and Devotional Content. Posts will be shared here and across other platforms, offering glimpses into the hearts and stories of these authors.

This tour isn’t just about books—it’s about how “The Word of God is living and active” in the lives of those who write them. As Hebrews 4:12 (NET) reminds us:

“For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any double-edged sword, piercing even to the point of dividing soul from spirit, and joints from marrow; it is able to judge the desires and thoughts of the heart.”

These authors live that truth every day, not only in their storytelling but in the way they live out their faith.

We’re also encouraged in Hebrews 10:23-25 (NET) to:

“…spur one another on to love and good works, not abandoning our own meetings, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging each other, and even more so because you see the day drawing near.”

I believe this kind of gathering—virtual though it may be—is vital to the future of our faith. By following our hashtags and joining the conversation, you’ll be part of a movement that celebrates the living Word through the lens of each author’s journey.

But enough from me... You came here to find out who’s joining the tour, didn’t you?

Without further ado, here is the lineup as of 9/28/25…

Aubrey Reiss TaylorB.D. LawrenceDana McNeelyDemi (DM) GriffinDr. Lisa DorseyD.T. PowellJ.A. WebbJenifer JenningsJon CaldwellLinda Shenton Matchettand of course, me... Matthew James Elliott

I hope you are looking forward to meeting some of these authors next month, and I can not wait to see where this tour takes us throughout October. Posts will go up on Sunday, Tuesday, or Friday, here at The Gathering Room Blog, and we will also be hosting a giveaway along the way, so make sure you're looking for these hashtags to keep up with all of these amazing authors. 

#PenWorksoftheWord#FaithBasedWriting#WritersofFaith# BlogTourSee you in the "digital" pages,

M.J. E.

PenWorks of the Word Blog Tour

Greetings, 

I'm so glad you're here. If you've joined our community through my website or email list, you've arrived at the perfect time. I'm kicking off a new chapter for this blog, and I can't wait to share it with you.

For years, this blog has been a bit of an afterthought. But this year, I committed to posting at least twice a month, and I'm really enjoying the process. It's giving me a place to share my thoughts in short, focused bursts, and I'm excited to see where it goes. With that in mind, I thought it would be great to host a blog tour and so I am.

After testing the waters, so to write, and some prayerful thought, I've organized something pretty big. It is The PenWorks of the Word Blog Tour, and I'm super excited to share some more information with you about it today. 

The Big Idea

The goal of this blog tour is to create a space for faith-based authors and influencers to connect and build unity. It's a chance for us to come together and share the message that the word of God is living and active, as mentioned in Hebrews 4:12. This tour is also a place where readers and writers alike can gather together, as encouraged in Hebrews 10:23-25, to connect and learn more about the different faith-based writing genres.

What to Expect

Throughout the tour, you'll find posts that are not only insightful but also encouraging and engaging. They'll be independently written but will all blend together to create a unified experience among several faith-based writers.

We have a fantastic lineup of authors, both well-known and emerging, all dedicated to sharing their faith through writing. Right now, we have eight authors confirmed, and more are joining every day!

The tour officially begins in October. We'll start with some informational posts in the first week, and by October 10th, things will really get going. Keep an eye out for updates and posts using the hashtags:

#PenWorksOfTheWord
#FaithBasedWriting
#WritersOfFaith
#BlogTour

I'm hoping this will become an annual event, and I'd love to hear your thoughts as we get started. Welcome to the tour!
See you in the pages, 

M.J.E.

Book Reviews: Rain by Dana McNeely

Greetings, 
This is a review of Rain, a novel by Dana McNeely. It was released on February 18th, 2021. I received a free copy of this book when it was on sale this year and have chosen to review this book of my own accord. It is an exciting one for sure, too. 
See you in the pages, 
M.J.E.
Overall Rating: ★★★★★
Overall Description:
He is destined to be high priest—but at what cost to those he loves?
In ancient Samaria, Aban anticipates his rites of passage with excitement and dread. He yearns to join the priesthood of Ba’al Melqart, unlock the power of the rain god, and hear the deity’s voice. He’s been warned the licentious ceremony can take a dangerous turn, but as the eldest son of the high priestess, he holds a privileged position. If he can make it through the ceremony, one day he’ll rise to high priest.
On the eve of the rituals, Aban’s mother confesses a dark secret about the bloody sacrifice demanded by Melqart. Aban may have escaped the flames, but if he is to save his brother, Aban must take his destined position of power as soon as possible.
When the mysterious prophet Elijah interrupts the rites, overturns the idol, and curses the land with drought, Aban’s world is shaken. The current high priest and the king appear powerless, but even more confusing is the fact that the rain god does nothing.
Against his better judgment, Aban conceals the strange prophet’s whereabouts, forfeiting the high priesthood. Now an enemy of the relentless Queen Jezebel, Aban has little time to question his fading commitment to Ba’al Melqart as he and his loved ones flee. But the conflict in Samaria is much larger than just a high priestess and her sons. Soon, Aban will have to choose a side in Yahweh’s war against the Ba’als—and it may cost him his life.

My Review of the Book:
What does it take to find your way in a world where gods clash and faith is tested at every turn? Dana McNeely’s Biblical historical fiction novel, Rain,  sends readers into the time of the prophet Elijah to explore this very question. While it does not specifically focus on Elijah throughout the entire narrative, it tells an impactful story. Rain is a novel about learning to live life one day at a time and working through whatever comes your way one step at a time. 
Aban, the main protagonist, is the child of the High Priestess of Ba'al Melqart, a foreign God. When he is told by a loved one to “Hold back your heart,” his life begins to change drastically. As his story unfolds, McNeely weaves intricate details into the narrative that left me speechless at times. The unexpected twists and turns smacked me in the face and forced me to feel what the characters of this story felt, to see what these characters saw, and to experience the story as if I were there living it alongside Aban and his loved ones. 
While I will avoid spoilers for those who have not read this story, I will tell you there were moments when I was genuinely on the verge of being in tears. Moments where I literally had to stop reading just to reorient myself so I could jump back in. Not because I didn’t like what I was reading, but because it was deeply meaningful. The journey of self-discovery these characters experienced throughout the novel was incredibly relatable and a pleasure to experience. 
What began as a familiar biblical narrative quickly became a story with unexpected emotional and spiritual complexity. The author's distinct talent for descriptive writing is one of the book's greatest strengths. Her detailed descriptions of characters, landscapes, and cities are so enticing they almost make you feel the reality of how things were in ancient biblical times. McNeely painted clear and memorable images that resonated with me more than I expected. As a Biblical fiction author myself, it is not easy to do that, but she does it masterfully.   
The narration is calm and gentle. It guides the reader through the plot with ease and allowed me to reflect upon each challenge Aban and his loved one faced. One of the most surprising and impactful moments for me was the clever twist on the "eye of the needle" and camel proverb, which added an extra layer of depth to the narrative. I did not expect this twist at all, and the way that event in the story changed things drove the rest of the story for me.
The story of the prophet Elijah has always been one of my favorite examples of faith in scripture. In Rain, the faith of Aban and his loved ones is tested in more ways than one. McNeely explores these challenges with great empathy, creating a powerful and moving tale of endurance and belief. This novel is more than just a retelling; it’s a deeply felt exploration of faith, love, and humanity that will stick with you long after you’ve turned the final page. I am excited to read book two, Whirlwind, down the road, and can’t wait to see where the trilogy goes from here.

Giving AI a Chance Part IV: Spiritual Themes

Greetings,
As I continue my jaunt through my AI experiments, I thought it would be fun to see what themes my AI tools could pull out of my newest novel, The Hope of Inheritance. While I am sure there are more than 10 in this story, I am actually pleased with the return. 
It has given me some ideas about what topics I can reflect upon in my new blog series, Reflecting on Hebrews. This is where I plan to outline my motivation behind what led to the birth of this story and ultimately to the award winning novel The Hope of Inheritance has become thanks to the ChristLit Books Awards.   

See you in the pages, or through AI's algorithm, 

M.J.E.
~~~~~~

1. The Resilience of Faith Amidst Persecution 🛡️

This is a core theme, highlighting how faith is not just a belief but a steadfast endurance in the face of immense suffering, persecution, and loss. The characters, particularly the early Christians, constantly face external threats and internal doubts, yet their faith is often strengthened through these trials rather than diminished. The narrative emphasizes that true faith is proven and refined through adversity.

2. The Nature of Hope and Heavenly Inheritance ☀️

The story consistently points to a heavenly inheritance as the ultimate source of hope. This hope allows characters to persevere through unimaginable hardship, seeing beyond their immediate circumstances to an eternal reward. It's a hope that is "built within us" and provides a "glimmer of light" even in the darkest moments, distinguishing it from fleeting earthly optimism.

3. Unity and Community in the Face of Division 🤝

Despite external persecution and internal disagreements (like those among church leaders or between different ministry approaches), the theme of unity within the Christian community is vital. The narrative emphasizes the importance of believers supporting one another, working together as "different parts of the body," and bridging gaps to further their shared mission. The act of gathering, praying, and serving together reinforces this theme.

4. The Transformative Power of Grace and Redemption ✨

Several character arcs, such as those of Theophilus (Malchus) and Lysias, illustrate the transformative power of God's grace and redemption. These characters, who have committed heinous acts or lived in opposition to the Christian faith, experience profound change and forgiveness. Their stories underscore the idea that redemption is possible even in the "darkest places of life" and that grace enables individuals to overcome their past and embrace a new purpose.

5. The Role of Leadership and Mentorship 🧭

The narrative explores various forms of spiritual leadership and the importance of mentorship. Paul, Peter, Luke, Silas, and even newer leaders like John Mark and Timothy, guide and encourage others. The passing of the "torch" to the "second generation of founders" highlights the continuity of the mission and the significant impact mentors have on the development and resilience of their disciples.

6. The Battle for Hearts and Minds (Spiritual Warfare) ⚔️

Beyond the physical persecution, the story depicts a constant spiritual battle for the hearts and minds of both believers and unbelievers. Characters struggle with fear, doubt, and temptation. The narrative illustrates how "Satan will do anything he can to change the battles of this war," emphasizing the need for constant prayer, vigilance, and a mindset rooted in faith rather than worldly anxieties.

7. The Unpredictability of God's Plan and Divine Timing 🤔

The characters frequently encounter unexpected twists, delays, and devastating events (like the earthquake in Colossae). This highlights the unpredictability of God's plan from a human perspective, as well as the perfect timing of events, often revealed in hindsight. Despite meticulous planning, the characters learn to trust that God is guiding their steps even when "nothing had gone exactly as we expected it would," fostering a deeper reliance on divine providence.

8. The Power of Personal Testimony and Documentation 📜

The entire narrative structure, through Nathaniel's ongoing account, letters, and the recounting of individual experiences, underscores the profound power of personal testimony and documentation. These written and spoken narratives serve as a means of encouragement, instruction, and preservation of faith for future generations. The act of sharing one's journey, struggles, and revelations becomes a vital tool for strengthening the collective faith.

9. The Clash Between Earthly and Heavenly Authority 👑

The story vividly portrays the stark contrast between the transient, oppressive power of earthly empires (like Nero's Rome) and the eternal, benevolent authority of God's kingdom. This theme explores the conflict of allegiances, where characters are forced to choose between conforming to human laws and remaining faithful to divine commands. It highlights the ultimate futility of earthly power against the enduring truth of God.

10. The Journey of Spiritual Maturity and Deeper Understanding 🌱

Many characters embark on a continuous journey of spiritual maturity, moving beyond superficial beliefs to a richer, more nuanced understanding of their faith. This often involves confronting past mistakes, grappling with complex theological questions, and learning through lived experience rather than just "basic teachings." The development of characters like John Mark and Theophilus exemplifies this process of growth and deepening spiritual insight.

Giving AI a Chance Par IV: Spiritual Themes

Greetings,
As I continue my jaunt through my AI experiments, I thought it would be fun to see what themes my AI tools could pull out of my newest novel, The Hope of Inheritance. While I am sure there are more than 10 in this story, I am actually pleased with the return. 
It has given me some ideas about what topics I can reflect upon in my new blog series, Reflecting on Hebrews. This is where I plan to outline my motivation behind what led to the birth of this story and ultimately to the award winning novel The Hope of Inheritance has become thanks to the ChristLit Books Awards.   

See you in the pages, or through AI's algorithm, 

M.J.E.
~~~~~~

1. The Resilience of Faith Amidst Persecution 🛡️

This is a core theme, highlighting how faith is not just a belief but a steadfast endurance in the face of immense suffering, persecution, and loss. The characters, particularly the early Christians, constantly face external threats and internal doubts, yet their faith is often strengthened through these trials rather than diminished. The narrative emphasizes that true faith is proven and refined through adversity.

2. The Nature of Hope and Heavenly Inheritance ☀️

The story consistently points to a heavenly inheritance as the ultimate source of hope. This hope allows characters to persevere through unimaginable hardship, seeing beyond their immediate circumstances to an eternal reward. It's a hope that is "built within us" and provides a "glimmer of light" even in the darkest moments, distinguishing it from fleeting earthly optimism.

3. Unity and Community in the Face of Division 🤝

Despite external persecution and internal disagreements (like those among church leaders or between different ministry approaches), the theme of unity within the Christian community is vital. The narrative emphasizes the importance of believers supporting one another, working together as "different parts of the body," and bridging gaps to further their shared mission. The act of gathering, praying, and serving together reinforces this theme.

4. The Transformative Power of Grace and Redemption ✨

Several character arcs, such as those of Theophilus (Malchus) and Lysias, illustrate the transformative power of God's grace and redemption. These characters, who have committed heinous acts or lived in opposition to the Christian faith, experience profound change and forgiveness. Their stories underscore the idea that redemption is possible even in the "darkest places of life" and that grace enables individuals to overcome their past and embrace a new purpose.

5. The Role of Leadership and Mentorship 🧭

The narrative explores various forms of spiritual leadership and the importance of mentorship. Paul, Peter, Luke, Silas, and even newer leaders like John Mark and Timothy, guide and encourage others. The passing of the "torch" to the "second generation of founders" highlights the continuity of the mission and the significant impact mentors have on the development and resilience of their disciples.

6. The Battle for Hearts and Minds (Spiritual Warfare) ⚔️

Beyond the physical persecution, the story depicts a constant spiritual battle for the hearts and minds of both believers and unbelievers. Characters struggle with fear, doubt, and temptation. The narrative illustrates how "Satan will do anything he can to change the battles of this war," emphasizing the need for constant prayer, vigilance, and a mindset rooted in faith rather than worldly anxieties.

7. The Unpredictability of God's Plan and Divine Timing 🤔

The characters frequently encounter unexpected twists, delays, and devastating events (like the earthquake in Colossae). This highlights the unpredictability of God's plan from a human perspective, as well as the perfect timing of events, often revealed in hindsight. Despite meticulous planning, the characters learn to trust that God is guiding their steps even when "nothing had gone exactly as we expected it would," fostering a deeper reliance on divine providence.

8. The Power of Personal Testimony and Documentation 📜

The entire narrative structure, through Nathaniel's ongoing account, letters, and the recounting of individual experiences, underscores the profound power of personal testimony and documentation. These written and spoken narratives serve as a means of encouragement, instruction, and preservation of faith for future generations. The act of sharing one's journey, struggles, and revelations becomes a vital tool for strengthening the collective faith.

9. The Clash Between Earthly and Heavenly Authority 👑

The story vividly portrays the stark contrast between the transient, oppressive power of earthly empires (like Nero's Rome) and the eternal, benevolent authority of God's kingdom. This theme explores the conflict of allegiances, where characters are forced to choose between conforming to human laws and remaining faithful to divine commands. It highlights the ultimate futility of earthly power against the enduring truth of God.

10. The Journey of Spiritual Maturity and Deeper Understanding 🌱

Many characters embark on a continuous journey of spiritual maturity, moving beyond superficial beliefs to a richer, more nuanced understanding of their faith. This often involves confronting past mistakes, grappling with complex theological questions, and learning through lived experience rather than just "basic teachings." The development of characters like John Mark and Theophilus exemplifies this process of growth and deepening spiritual insight.