Heather Greer's Blog, page 17

June 27, 2022

Main Character Monday Meet Ben Carrington

I am so excited to give you the opportunity to meet Ben Carrington on today’s Main Character Monday. Ben is the main male character from Liana George’s book, Perfectly Placed. If you haven’t read my interview with Nicki Mayfield, the main female character, you can go to my blog archives and search her name or the book title, Perfectly Arranged. But for today, we’re going to focus on Ben Carrington. We even have a special treat today, as Liana George sent us a picture of Ben. Welcome Ben. Why don’t you tell us a little about yourself.

I am a born and raised Texas boy living in Beijing teaching English and sharing the gospel as best as I can without getting in trouble!

It’s always good to stay out of trouble. Tell me something about you that readers may find surprising?

I was recruited by the Houston Astros to play baseball but changed my mind in the spring of my senior year.

Wow! That’s a big deal. If you could solve one world problem, which one would you solve?

Poverty. The inequality between wealthy people and poor people in this world blows my mind. There must be a way to fix it.

I imagine you see quite a bit of that issue playing out in front of you, and I’m guessing you help in any way you can. The New Testament tells of Mary and Martha. Two sisters who react to a visit from Jesus in very different ways. Mary chooses to spend time with Him, while Martha chooses to take care of the physical needs. Are you more Mary or Martha?

Well, since I’m a guy I would say neither! But in all seriousness, I’d say I identify more with Mary. While I think it’s important to take care of others’ physical needs first, I know I can’t do that to the best of my ability until my well’s been filled by spending time with Jesus.

That is a great thought for all of us to keep in mind. “Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.” James 1:27 – Do you think living out this verse would make a difference in your life? How?

Living in China and seeing the number of orphans in the country I can definitely see why God would call us to do this. I haven’t been the best at taking the time to care for them as I should while I’ve been here, but recently I’ve had the opportunity to spend time with one little orphan girl and it’s changed my life in ways I never imagined. It’s softened my heart and made me rethink marriage, family, and kids. And it’s also deepened my understanding of God and His love for His children.

I love it when God places people like that in my life, to open up my eyes to things I haven’t considered before. Is there a verse of scripture that holds great meaning in your life?

Luke 1:37 “For nothing is impossible with God.”

That is a great, strength giving verse. If you could leave readers with one message, what would it be? Don’t be afraid of the world. Explore, learn, and embrace it. We are not of this world, but we are to be in it. We can’t do what we’ve been called to do if we are constantly in fear of discovering more about it and the people who inhabit it.

I want to thank Ben for joining us today. It’s been great getting to know him a little more. Now, for something a little different than our usual, we’re going to put Ben’s author, Liana George on the spot with our just for fun and rapid fire questions.

If you could buy one thing, without worrying about the cost, what would you buy? A house by the ocean!

What one hobby would you keep if you had to give up all other hobbies? Traveling!

Apples or Pears? Apples

Indoors or Outside? Inside

Reading or Writing? Reading

If Ben Carrington had only three words to describe you, how would he do it? Persistent, hard-working, giving

Readers, don’t say good-bye just yet. Keep reading for more information on Perfectly Placed, Liana’s great new release and to find out more about Liana and where you can find her on social media and get your own copy of her book.

Perfectly Placed Back Cover Copy

Nicki’s tasked with making New Hope the perfect place for orphaned children.

So why has everything gone wrong?

Six weeks after leaving China, Nicki Mayfield returns to complete two critical tasks: restore order at New Hope Orphanage and reconnect with the little girl who stole her heart. However, between a stubbornly stone walling supervisor, missing documents, and personal tragedy, Nicki faces challenges at every turn. Is she the best person to bring order – and longevity – to the place these children call home? Then, with the help of an unexpected ally, Nicki makes a life-altering decision that upends her well-planned life and the lives of those around her. Will she lose it all, or has she found the way to save what matters most?

Liana George Bio

Liana George is a sought-after speaker, blogger, and author. Before pursuing a career in writing, she was a professional organizer and is the former owner of By George Organizing Solutions in Houston. Her debut novel, Perfectly Arranged, Book One in the Hopeful Heart Series, was released in October 2021 from Scrivenings Press. When she’s not putting things in order or scribbling away, you can find her reading, traveling, or watching tennis.

Links to purchase Perfectly Placed

Amazon Print Copy- https://amzn.to/3n4PMza

Amazon eBook Copy- https://amzn.to/3OfohPc

Barnes and Noble- https://bit.ly/PPBarnesNoble

Liana George Media Links

Amazon Author Page- https://bit.ly/LGAmazonAuthor

BookBub Author page- https://bit.ly/LianaGeorgeBB

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/LianaGWriter/

Good Reads- https://bit.ly/LianaGeorgeGR

Pinterest- https://www.pinterest.com/liana2404/

Scrivenings Press- https://scriveningspress.com/liana-george/

YouTube- Liana George, Writer- https://bit.ly/LGWriterYT

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Published on June 27, 2022 08:07

June 23, 2022

Stars in the Night Review: On Tour with Celebrate Lit

Stars in the Night Review

About the Book

Book: Stars in the Night

Author: Cara Putman

Genre: WWII Romantic Suspense

Release date: February 1, 2022

Hollywood 1942. When attorney Audra Schaeffer’s sister disappears, Audra flies to Hollywood to find her but instead must identify her body. Determined to bring the killer to justice, Audra takes a job with the second Hollywood Victory Caravan. Together with Robert Garfield and other stars, she crisscrosses the southern United States in a campaign to sell war bonds. When two other women are found dead on the train, Audra knows the deaths are tied to that of her sister. Could the killer be the man with whom she’s falling in love?

MY THOUGHTS: Stars in the Night is a fun historical suspense romance. I loved the setting of the Hollywood Victory Caravan. It was a unique one that I’ve not read about before. The suspense part of the story kept you guessing, giving just enough information and red herrings to make you wonder if you really have it figured out. The romance element of the story is well done too. I enjoyed the everyday girl meets Hollywood heartthrob aspect. I read this one late into the night.

I give Stars in the Night five stars.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Since the time I could read Nancy Drew, I have wanted to write mysteries. In 2005 I attended a book signing at my local Christian bookstore. The rest, as they say, is history. There I met Colleen Coble. With prompting from my husband, I shared my dream with Colleen. Since those infamous words, I’ve been writing award-winning books with the count currently at 35 published and more in the works.

In addition to writing, I am a mom of four, attorney, clinical professor at a Big Ten university, active in women’s ministry, and all around crazy woman. Crazy about God, my husband, and my kids. I graduated with honors from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (Go Huskers!), George Mason Law School, and Purdue University’s MBA program. You can learn more about my books at http://www.caraputman.com. And if you’d like a copy of my legal suspense novella, Dying for Love, simply connect with me here (http://www.caraputman.com/contact/), and I’ll send you the link.

June 20, 2022

Main Character Monday: Haleigh Abbott

Today on Main Character Monday, I have the pleasure of interviewing Haleigh Abbott. Hallee is from Beth E. Westcott’s newest book, A Heart’s Journey. Before we begin, I need to let you know, I love this cover. Now that we have that taken care of, I’d like to get to know you a little better, Haleigh. Tell me a bit about yourself.

I’m twenty-one and a college graduate, but I don’t know what I want to do with the rest of my life. My grandmother told me God has a plan for me, but if He does, I’m still waiting for Him to show me. I have college bills to pay, so I have to work.

I love my family. Jeremy and Jason are my older twin brothers, the J brothers. I’m the youngest and only girl. My grandmother, a wonderful woman and my mentor, encouraged me in my faith, and helped me find and train my dog, Sunshine. She taught me to love nature, and I enjoyed working with her in her flower gardens. When she died, it left a hole in my heart.

Sunshine, my therapy dog and companion for eight years, visited hospitals and nursing homes with me to cheer up the patients and residents. She knew just how to comfort me when I became depressed or troubled.

As a girl I had two best friends: Aubrey White and Katie Mann. We were known as the Three Sisters because we did almost everything together, until middle school, when Aubrey got into sports and Katie got into drama. I had no talent in either one, and I didn’t feel accepted in their circles of friends. I’m an introvert, so making new friends has never been easy for me.

By the end of tenth grade, an awful year for various reasons, I went into an emotional and spiritual tailspin. My family moved away from Greenlawn, and I always found reasons not to go back. Until now, six years later.

I decided to return to Greenlawn when the Sousas asked me to house sit while they went on sabbatical for a year, although that’s not the only reason I’m back. This is the beginning of a journey for me, but I don’t know where it will lead.

Family and friends make such a difference in our lives, as does the loss of either one. Sounds like you’ve experienced both the blessings and the pain. Tell me something about you that readers may find surprising?

After my family moved to Wellsburg, I planned to run away. I was a mess emotionally and spiritually. I packed my bag and laid my plans, but I think God sent an angel to block my path, you know, like in the story of Balaam and the donkey. Sunshine refused to go with me, and I wouldn’t leave without her.

There are times when I think we all want to run away, though not always literally. It’s wonderful that you had Sunshine to help you through that time. What is your favorite book of the Old Testament?

I enjoy history, and although Genesis is considered a book of the Law, it’s also a book of history, a book of beginnings. How beautiful the world must have been at creation! All the major doctrines of the Bible begin in Genesis, and it’s filled with biographies of imperfect people to whom God showed His mercy, grace, and love.

That is a great way to look at Genesis. Is there a book of the Bible you have trouble getting through?

Not a single book, but the sections of Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy that give long lists of names, places, and explanations of laws: I try hard to focus on the details, but it’s easier to skim the lists.

I’m right there with you on the skimming part. I know I should read all those little details, but I’d much rather get to the stories. If you could meet anyone from scripture, excluding Jesus, who would it be?

King Saul’s son Jonathan. He wasn’t afraid to stand up for what was right, even if it meant confronting his father, he had courage as a warrior, and he understood the true meaning of friendship. I think David must have missed him terribly after he died in battle.

What a great choice! He was a great friend to David, and we don’t consider him often enough. Jesus had twelve disciples. Which one are you most like?

I’m not sure. We don’t know much about some of the 12. I’m definitely not a leader like Peter, James, or John. I’m more of a behind-the-scenes worker. Nathanael brought Philip to meet Jesus. I want to do that, introduce people to Jesus so they can be saved.

So many would rush to say they’re one of the more known disciples. I find it refreshing that you chose someone not as up front and center and for the reason of simply bringing people to Jesus. We are to be Jesus’ light in the world. What does this mean to you?

When we receive Jesus as Savior and Lord, we have the Holy Spirit in us to make us more like Jesus, the Light of the World (John 8:12). As Jesus’ follower, I want others to see Jesus through what I say and how I live so that they will want to believe in Him, be saved, and have eternal life.

Well put. If you could leave readers with one message, what would it be?

If you’re a Christian, no matter how difficult life becomes, God is always with you. He has a purpose and a plan for you. Trust Him.

Great message. Now, before we finish the interview, I’d like to ask you some just for fun questions. Nothing too hard. Just a way to get to know you better. If you could have a superpower, what one would you choose?

A superpower? Hmm. War, poverty, and misuse have left much of the world stripped of its beauty and usefulness. I’d make it possible for everyone to experience the beauty and bounty of nature and of the earth God created.

Very unique answer. If offered the opportunity, would you choose to travel in space?

I think not. I’m not that adventuresome. I’d rather travel on earth.

I can understand that. Now some rapid fire, this or that questions.

Dark or Milk Chocolate? Dark

Roses or Daisies? Roses

Salad or Soup? Salad in hot weather, soup in cold weather.

And our final question. If you could describe Beth E. Westcott using only three words, what would those words be?

Introvert, Gentle, Encourager

Knowing what I know of Beth, I’d have to say I agree wholeheartedly. She’s a great lady and a wonderful author. I want to thank her and you for taking the time to speak with me today. I’ve enjoyed this Main Character Monday Interview, Haleigh Abbott, and I look forward to reading your story. And for the readers, don’t leave just yet. Keep going for more about Haleigh’s story, A Heart’s Journey, and about the author, Beth E. Westcott.

More about Beth:

Beth began her writing career in second grade when a poem she wrote about her lamb appeared in the school newspaper. She wrote puppet plays that she performed with her brother for elementary school talent shows, and later wrote ventriloquist routines for her husband to perform with his dummies.

A life-long lover of books and reading, A Heart’s Journey is Beth’s third contemporary Christian romance novel. Meadow Song and Heart’s Desire are her other two. Lillenas Drama accepted some of her church holiday manuscripts for publication in their Christmas, Easter, and Thanksgiving Program Builders. Several devotions appeared in Penned from the Heart and The Secret Place. Her short story for preteens, “Sadie and the Princess” is included in Heartwarming Horse Stories, available from Amazon.

A Heart’s Journey is the second book in the Three Sisters Series, following Heart’s Desire. The third of the Three Sisters books, Her Heart’s Longing, is scheduled to be released in July 2023.

www.bethewestcott.com

https://www.bookbub.com/profile/beth-e-westcott

https://www.facebook.com/bethewestcott

https://twitter.com/BethWAuthor

https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/29201094-beth-westcott

Where to buy A Heart’s Journey:

https://scrivenings.link/aheartsjourney

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Published on June 20, 2022 14:56

June 17, 2022

Finding a Memory Review: On Tour with Celebrate Lit

Finding a Memory Audiobook Review

About the Book

Book: Finding a Memory

Author: Chautona Havig

Narrator: Christa DelSorbo

Genre: Christian Women’s Fiction

Release date: February, 2022

He loved her then. Will she love him now?

When Mallory Barrows finds an old diary in a box of books, the story she finds within sends her on the hunt for the owner–and maybe more.

Theirs is a story ripped from a country song. A wedding, a former love presumed dead, her new love stepping aside. And over forty years later, their story is one few remember.

With Mallory determined to find the people in the pages of that diary, one couple is offered the second chance of a lifetime.

This “second-chance / seasoned romance” novel introduces the next island in the Independence Islands Series featuring five islands, six authors, and a boatload of happily-ever-afters.

The Independence Islands Series: beach reads aren’t just for summer anymore.

MY THOUGHTS: I love journals and diaries, but I’m not sure I’d be able to see mine in someone else’s hands and tell them to keep reading it. It would definitely have to be a God moment, and I think that’s what happened in Finding a Memory. Mallory learns and grows from her time in the pages of someone else’s story. And let’s be honest, fiction or nonfiction, isn’t that one of our goals when we join another’s story? But because the story she enters is true, the joys and the pains are even more impactful. And through the sharing, a couple has the chance to make right some of the wrongs of the past and find healing and hope.

Finding a Memory is another great story in the Independence Islands series, and I know you’re going to enjoy it. I give this one four stars.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Using story to connect readers with the Master Storyteller.

Chautona Havig lives in an oxymoron, escapes into imaginary worlds that look startlingly similar to ours, and writes the stories that emerge. An irrepressible optimist, Chautona sees everything through a kaleidoscope of It’s a Wonderful Life sprinkled with fairy tales. Find her at chautona.com and say howdy—if you can remember how to spell her name.

About the Narrator

Speaking Life into Story

Queen of the one-eyebrow quirk, Christa DelSorbo auditioned for the role of Tarzan’s mom and has the photos to prove she ended up as the only cast member in a literal cast. These days, they keep her stuck in a box with a ball on a stick and only feed her when she reads another chapter of another fabulous book. She loves every minute. Or so they tell her. *eyebrow slowly raises *

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 14

Texas Book-aholic, June 15

Inklings and notions, June 16

By the Book, June 17

For Him and My Family, June 18

deb’s Book Review, June 19 (Spotlight)

Locks, Hooks and Books, June 20

The Sacred Line, June 21

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, June 22

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, June 23

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 24

SodbusterLiving, June 25

Mary Hake, June 26

Simple Harvest Reads, June 27 (Spotlight)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Christa is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and a code for the audiobook!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/1ec2b/finding-a-memory-audiobook-celebration-tour-giveaway

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Published on June 17, 2022 05:00

June 15, 2022

Unexpected: Wednesday in the Word

Unexpected can strike fear into a person’s heart or create a surge of adrenaline as a new, unforeseen possibility opens up. Two weeks ago, I got hit with unexpected at a place where I thought I had it all figured out.

Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference is a favorite of mine. Having attended three years in a row, I know what to expect. Or I thought I knew what to expect.

I didn’t take anything to pitch to agents or acquisitions editors. I went to learn. The classes there are top-notch.

I hoped to see some of my friends from previous years. Writing may be a solitary profession, but there is inspiration and challenge in being with people who get you. I needed that.

And the worship! I love Russell and Kristi and their music ministry. To be led into the presence of God each morning and evening along with close to six hundred other worshippers is an amazing experience. I pray God blesses them as much as He does the conference attendees.

With my class list in hand, I set off and experienced my first taste of unexpected. I knew ahead of time, none of my writer friends from home were going to go with me. The idea of a seven and a half hour drive by myself in a tiny car on a crazy curvy road with rock walls on one side and drop-offs on the other and a million (no, I’m not exaggerating) semi trucks unnerved me.

I expected it, and I planned accordingly. I drove the majority of the way and stayed overnight at a motel to accomplish the more nerve-wracking portion of the trip when fresh the next morning. Oh how the unexpected almost undid me before I really got started.

I checked in, though the motel’s surroundings seemed a little suspicious. When I reached my room, the door was ajar and the sheets were on the floor. Had the housekeeper been abducted by aliens mid-cleaning? I’ll never know. They upgraded me to a suite. I expected the term suite to be relative. I mean, I knew I wasn’t staying at the Ritz.

The floor lamps barely lit the room. Maybe they figured if the room was dark, people wouldn’t see the stains all over the couch I knew I wasn’t going to sit on that night. Or the melted spots in the carpet, bigger than cigarette burns but not distant enough to tell what created them. Maybe they didn’t want me to see the strange white stain on the olive green comforter or the fact that the white sheets were really more yellow.

I nearly had a meltdown. I checked for bugs and found no evidence, but I still couldn’t handle what I was supposed to sleep on. After a frantic call to my husband which included the possibility of spending at least two hundred extra dollars we didn’t have to rent a different room and losing the non-refundable price of the current room, I set out to find a Wal-Mart.

Fifty dollars later, I was the proud owner of a new sheet set, pillow, and fleece blanket. All these items covered the ones currently on the bed, allowing me some semblance of peace as I slept. (Side note: Each item was sealed in plastics bags and immediately washed in hot water with two rinses and then dried in the dryer for at least an hour to make sure nothing traveled home with me.) The next morning, I had an unexpected cold shower and promptly checked out of the room. I will never return.

The conference began without surprise. My room was comfortable, and I met up with friends from previous years. Unexpected hit again the first full day of the conference. Migraine. I couldn’t enjoy the music with my heading pounding its own beat. I struggled through my first class. Maybe lunch would help.

Those at the table with me prayed for me. Those I met before worship prayed for me. With these prayers supporting me, I made my way back to my room after lunch. I slept through my afternoon class and woke with the pain somewhat dulled. I medicated. Then, I carefully avoided loud sounds for the rest of the day and slept through the night to begin the second day feeling much better.

Unexpected hit again on Wednesday. I decided to pack my car before dinner and the mid-week awards ceremony. That way, I could take it easy on the last half day of the conference. I loaded my suitcases and searched my purse for my keys. Then, I searched my backpacks. After that, I dumped out my dirty clothes and rummaged the pockets. Finally, I dumped everything in every bag on my bed, growing more frantic in my search. Where were my keys?

It took a few trips to the car to unload. So, I knew I hadn’t left them in the ignition. With heavy steps, I went to my car. I searched through the front window. Nothing. The back seat was equally disappointing. I looked through the hatch-back window. There, almost covered by the sleeve of my jacket, were my keys. It was more than I could take when I called home. For the next fifteen minutes, if anyone spoke to me, I burst into tears.

Here I need to apologize to the ladies on the elevator who thought I’d lost my mind. Another author from my publishing house asked how my day was going. You guessed it. Waterworks. The woman was gracious and tried to help me brainstorm what to do. While she went to eat dinner, I went to the front desk. No luck. I needed to eat and prepare for the awards ceremony. Instead, I was waiting on security who couldn’t help me.

I was able to share my plight, without tears at this point, with a few I knew to see if they had a slim Jim to break into my car. No one did. It would solve it later. My friend reminded me I needed to eat. And I didn’t want to miss the awards. My car would still be there, locked, when the night’s events ended.

And it was. The manager gave me a lock-smith’s number. Instead of enjoying the reception after the program, I returned to my room to change and wait for the guy to come unlock my door. Took him thirty seconds to retrieve my keys. I need to learn how to do that.

As unexpected as all these things were, there’s more. First, there was the unexpected prayers and concern from people I’d only just met when dealing with my migraine and my keys. There was the unexpected discussion when I sat at Edwina’s table to compliment her on her wardrobe that day. The discussion turned serious, and the group of us shared our personal stories dealing with mental health issues and parenting. There was the woman struggling to know whether she needed to give up her writing dream. I was able to pray with her, right then and there. The unexpected blessings continued as I prayed with others too. My book, Cake That!, placed third in the Contemporary Romance category of the Selah competition. I had an editor ask my to update the proposal for my nature devotional and send it to her.

Someone asked the group to consider how God showed up for us at the conference. In that answer, I found my biggest unexpected moment. It came with the realization that my God moments weren’t related to the writing at all. They weren’t epiphanies from the classes I enjoyed. They weren’t contracts being signed. No. My God moments had to do with the people. God showed me the early church spirit through the people. Everyone coming together, supporting one another and sharing their wisdom and experience freely for the benefit of the group. People taking time to stop and immediately pray for the needs of others. Conferees cheering for the wins of their fellow writers, even when their own journey wasn’t going the way they planed.

My conference journey this year was full of unexpected. Both pleasantly and those experiences that were a bit more difficult. Looking back I’m reminded exactly who God is. “‘For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,’ declares the Lord. ‘For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts that your thoughts.'” (Isaiah 55:8-9)

What was unexpected to me, wasn’t unexpected to God. But more than that, He knew how to use each surprise to my benefit. “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28). My God is the God of the unexpected, and He knew exactly what I needed to grow and be encouraged through this very unexpected conference experience. And I wouldn’t want it any other way.

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Published on June 15, 2022 09:10

June 13, 2022

Main Character Monday: Katie Wilhite

Welcome back to Main Character Monday and today’s interview with Katie Wilhite. Katie is the main character from Amy Anguish’s new book, Destination: Fun Romance. With a road trip, girlfriends, and summer fun this book is perfect for a day at the beach (or even a day wishing you were at the beach!) Let’s jump right in and get to know Katie.

Tell me a little about yourself, Katie?

I just graduated from Freed-Hardeman University and am moving to Germantown (right outside of Memphis) to start working at the library there. It’s my dream job and I am pinching myself to believe I actually snagged it right out of school. Although I’m a bit nervous about having to meet all those new people.

Meeting new people can be stressful for some of us, but I’m sure you’ll do great. Tell me something about you that readers may find surprising?

This is sort of hard, because I really feel like I’m rather boring. Let’s go with this. I can’t figure out any of the fairy tale princesses that matches me most. Most girls can answer a question like that right away, but I can’t see myself in any of those stories as the girl. Maybe the beast sometimes …

I don’t imagine many girls would answer that way, though in truth, maybe we can all relate to him a little more than the princess. What is your favorite Bible verse and why?

One I’ve started clinging to more recently is Hebrews 4:15. “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.” The idea that Jesus can sympathize with my weaknesses is so comforting. Especially knowing how many weaknesses I have.

Is there a person from the Bible that you relate to most?

I don’t know if you’d say it’s relating to her, but I’ve always felt sorry for Job’s wife. Sure, she doesn’t handle the situation in the best way, but she’s grieving, too, and a lot of times we forget that all the stuff that happened to Job (minus the sores) happened to her, too. She lost all those kids and how awful would that feel? No wonder she wants to die.

Wow. I’ve never thought about her in that way. Great answer. The fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Is there one of these characteristics you find is easier to show than the others?

Hm. I’d love to say self-control, but friends who’ve seen my temper would probably disagree. Honestly, I need to work on all of these more.

I think we can all relate to that. Is there one that is more challenging than the others?

The hardest one is patience. I am so impatient.

If you could give one message to those reading this interview, what would you tell them?

Don’t judge me too harshly when you start reading my story. I don’t always give a great first impression. Especially when I’m in pain.

Hmm. That brings up a lot of questions. But I’ll leave it to the readers to ask and find the answers to those as they read your story. For now, I want to ask a couple of just for fun questions. If you could visit just one place your entire life, where would you go?

Oh goodness! I mean, I’ve visited so many places now, it’s hard to pick. But I think I’d like to follow at least part of the Oregon trail. So many books I read growing up were about the wagon trains and I’d like to see what it looks like in real life.

You’re probably too young to remember that old Oregon Trail game. I think for those of my generation, it may have satisfied of our desires to follow the trail. I think we all died on the virtual trail one too many times! But isn’t it wonderful how what we read can pique our interest in new places like that? If you could choose one talent you don’t already have, what talent would you choose?

The ability to just go out and meet people instead of being so shy. The idea of putting myself in new situations totally freaks me out.

Now for some rapid fire questions.

Dark or Milk Chocolate? Dark

Beach or Mountains? Beach

Sweet Tea or Lemonade? Lemonade

And my final question. If you could describe Amy Anguish in three words, what would those words be?

Controlling, Abusive, and Mean

Well, that isn’t very complimentary. But I have read your story, and I have to admit I can see why you’d choose those words. She does force you into some predicaments that given your shy nature wouldn’t be easy. I want to thank you for joining me today. And readers, keep reading to find out more about Amy, Katie, and Katie’s story. Don’t forget to order your copy today while it is still on pre-order sale.

More about Amy Anguish:

Amy R Anguish grew up a preacher’s kid, and in spite of having lived in seven
different states that are all south of the Mason Dixon line, she is not a football
fan. Currently, she resides in Tennessee with her husband, daughter, and son,
and usually a bossy cat or two. Amy has an English degree from Freed-
Hardeman University that she intends to use to glorify God, and she wants her
stories to show that while Christians face real struggles, it can still work out for
good.
Follow her at http://abitofanguish.weebly.com or
http://www.facebook.com/amyanguishauthor
Or https://twitter.com/amy_r_anguish
Learn more about her books at https://www.pinterest.com/msguish/my-...
And check out the YouTube channel she does with two other authors, Once Upon a
Page (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEiu...)

More About the Book:

It’s not every day you bring a boyfriend back as a souvenir.

Katie Wilhite is ready to settle into her new job as a librarian now that college is through, but friends Bree and Skye want one more girls’ trip, and when Bree insists this is her bachelorette fling, Katie agrees. What she didn’t agree to was allowing fun and flighty Skye to dictate the itinerary or for her anxiety to kick in harder than ever … right in front of a cute guy.

Camden Malone had no idea when he agreed to be the voice of reason on his cousin Ryan’s vacation that the trip wouldn’t stay in New Orleans as planned. But when Ryan plots with Skye so that the guys can tag along with the girls all week, he isn’t nearly as upset as he should be. Not with Katie’s fiery temper and flashing eyes intriguing him more by the minute.

Can Katie relax enough to trust Camden and a possible future, or will she continue to push him away as only a vacation fling? And can Camden move past a rocky history of his own to be able to jump into a better future? For a trip that was supposed to be all about fun, there’s a lot of romance going around.

Where to get your copy:

https://scrivenings.link/destinationromance

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Published on June 13, 2022 09:14

May 20, 2022

Beyond the Gates Review

Beyond the Gates is the new dystopian novel by Erin Howard that released on Tuesday. Available in ebook and paperback from Expanse Books.

My review:

Rule keeper or a rebel? Beyond the Gates by Erin Howard reminds me blindly following our world’s leaders without question can be a dangerous thing. This is especially true when their decisions and priorities are counter to God’s Word. It’s a slippery slope that can lead into situations God never intended us to face. Too often, circumstances are more complex than they appear, true motives hide from view, and worldly power corrupts as easily as it has since the beginning of time. Maybe times exist for both the rule keeper and the rebel.

Renna has always played by the rules, and though she doesn’t necessarily like them, she doesn’t really question them either. At least, she doesn’t until she finds herself locked out of the gates that surround her city. With no knowledge of what lies beyond the gates, Renna clings to the one person who might have answers, Miles. Of course, he’s the reason she’s locked out in the first place.

Dangers exist outside the compound. That’s what Renna has been told all her life. And they do. But as Renna fights for her life, she realizes maybe what she should be afraid of isn’t the nightmares from the stories drilled into her people by their leaders. Maybe the situation is more complicated and convoluted than she ever imagined.

With enough twists and turns to keep you flipping pages, enough lies to keep you guessing, and a bit of romance to bring out a sigh or two, Beyond the Gates is my favorite book so far from Erin Howard. And that ending has me anxious for book two!

Get your copy here:

https://scrivenings.link/beyondthegates

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Published on May 20, 2022 05:00

May 13, 2022

Corner Booth Review: On Tour with Celebrate Lit

Corner Booth Review

Corner Booth

About the Book

Book: Corner Booth

Author: Chautona Havig

Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance

Release date: March 17, 2015

A daring move forges the love of a lifetime

A rushed lunch and a bold move introduce Carlie to a stranger—one who hardly acknowledges her existence as he sits across from her, sharing his booth to save her a wait in a long line.
What began as a random encounter becomes a weekly date in which Carlie chatters about her life to a silent lunchmate. Much about him interests her–his slightly Euro fashion sense, his commitment to the work he does as he eats his lunch week after week, and his evident attention to the running monologue she shares between bites of meals that he inevitably pays for.
Dean gets to know the woman across from him–looks forward to their lunches each week, learns valuable lessons about himself—but when the cafe is threatened, and then when she doesn’t show up one day, he suspects their unusual friendship means more to him than he imagined.

Settle into the booth with Carlie and Dean and learn just how eloquent silence really is.

MY THOUGHTS: With an incredibly interesting premise, Corner Booth satisfies the order for an enjoyable story with a side of take-aways for readers. There is a lot about Carlie that makes me want to reach into the book and set her straight. But they also ring true to what someone in her situation deals with. Even well-meaning friends cannot break through to her, and as sad as it is, that’s the reality for a lot of women who’ve chosen abusive or borderline abusive men. And I feel for Dean. How awkward to find the intelligence that puts him at the top of his field at an incredibly young age also puts him on the outside of things socially. My heart broke for him as he overheard his faults made fun of again and again by coworkers he considered friends. What hurt even more was that through those who really did love him, he understood the truth behind the sentiments and wanted so badly to fix those negative traits but still he couldn’t escape it. I wanted to cheer when anyone stood up for him. He was such a great guy. And the truth he learns, that we need to really listen to others, well, that’s one I know I can take to heart.

I give Corner Booth 4 stars. It’s a great story, and I know you’ll enjoy it.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

USA Today Bestselling author of Aggie and Past Forward series, Chautona Havig lives in an oxymoron, escapes into imaginary worlds that look startlingly similar to ours and writes the stories that emerge. An irrepressible optimist, Chautona sees everything through a kaleidoscope of It’s a Wonderful Life sprinkled with fairy tales. Find her at chautona.com and say howdy—if you can remember how to spell her name.

May 11, 2022

I Don’t Want to Go: Wednesday in the Word

I Don't Want to Go “I don’t want to go.” For Doctor Who fans, those five little words hold an extraordinary amount of meaning and emotion, and David Tennant delivered them flawlessly, breaking the hearts of an entire fandom.

As I stared at the cake waiting for decoration, considered the unknown rental car and unfamiliar roads I would travel, and made a list of all the projects I was behind on, those same iconic words weren’t so moving. They were more like a petulant toddler’s whine.

But everything in my DNA pushes me. If I’ve agreed to be somewhere or do something, I follow through.

Plans for this particular writer’s retreat were made long before I was hopelessly behind on my current book. And, I might add, long before the deadline of the youth camp I direct became a blip on my calendar. I’d agreed to head up the surprise party and present a couple devotions before I knew my son’s car trouble would mean having to get a rental car to even go on the trip.

It was the day before the trip, I was tired. I was cranky. And I DIDN’T WANT TO GO. (Insert foot stomping for emphasis here). My pesky DNA refused to let me back out. There’s no way I could even consider it with people counting on me. So, I packed the car, and the next morning I started the drive with a prayer for an uneventful drive to the destination.

While God delivered me without incident to my hotel, I can’t say my car time was uneventful. No, I didn’t have any near misses on the road or tires going flat. There was a bit of rain, but even that wasn’t an issue. What took place on the drive had nothing to do with the car or the road and everything to do with me.

Before I left familiar roads, I paired my phone to the car’s radio and chose my playlist. Contemporary Christian and Contemporary Praise music filled the car. For four hours, I sang along with the worshipful words. Even during the stressful forty-five minutes of driving on roads with five lanes that become three lanes only to become five lanes again and leave drivers wondering how they moved from the third lane to the fourth without changing lanes, I sang along. Honestly, it helped me stay focused on the road instead of my rising anxiety.

It didn’t take reaching that stressful portion of the road three hours away for the trip to become eventful. Less than an hour passed before I realized something big took place. As I joined my voice to the ones coming through the speakers, my heart and mind focused more on God and less on me.

Rather than seeing the retreat as one more task, my heart began recognize the opportunity ahead of me. Nothing had changed in the circumstances, yet everything had changed in me. With this new attitude, the retreat became a time of encouragement and fun. I came away with greater focus and passion for the story I still have to write. On that eventful drive, He shifted my focus from me to Him. And the new attitude allowed Him to accomplish His will in me through the retreat.

I had to leave the retreat a bit early. I packed the car and said my goodbyes, praising God for His work in my spirit that allowed me to receive the blessings He offered through the weekend’s events. Walking out to the rental car that would deliver me safely home, I considered the encouragement, friendship, and fun I’d experienced. And one thought entered my mind. I don’t want to go.

“Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.” Philippians 4:8

Has a time praise and worship ever changed your attitude about things? Where do you go or what do you turn to in order to reset your attitudes?

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Published on May 11, 2022 07:53

May 6, 2022

A Giant Murder Review: On Tour with Celebrate Lit

A Giant Murder Audiobook Review

A Giant Murder

About the Book

Book: A Giant Murder

Author: Marji Laine

Narrator: Christa DelSorbo

Genre: Christian Women’s Fiction

Release date: January, 2022

2- A Giant Murder AUDIO Would you like a shot of… death with that, sir?

Josephine Jacobs was just doing her job, serving at an exclusive party, so why is she now being accused of shooting TG Taggert?

At a party full of suspects in the murder of Taggert, Josie served the food giant everything but an eternally “parting shot.” Who really killed TG Taggert? His wife? His son, Jack? What about Harper Davis? Rumor has it, she was having an affair with him—motive for her or Taggert’s wife! The list of those who seemed to hate him keeps growing, including a chemist and a chef!

With her long-time friend, Office Porter O’Brien, Josie sets out to clear her name and find out who really killed “the giant”.

Find out in this next book in the Ever After Mysteries, combining beloved fairy tales and mysteries. A Giant Murder offers a retelling of “Jack and the Beanstalk” with enough clues and suspects to keep you looking over your shoulder. We’d recommend Kevlar… but it hasn’t been invented yet!

Click here to get your copy!

MY THOUGHTS: I don’t normally listen to to audiobooks, so I wasn’t sure what to expect from this one. I’ve read and enjoyed a couple of the books in this series of stories, and this one is no different. I love the backdrop of the 20s, and the story itself was entertaining. The mystery was well done. I didn’t know until the end exactly how it was all going to work together and play out.

It did take me a few chapters to stop hearing the narrator and start hearing the story, but that may be due to my lack of experience with audiobooks. If you’re a fan of the 20s or mysteries with a bit of romance woven in, I think you’ll like A Giant Murder. I give this audiobook 4 stars.

About the Author

Marji Laine is a graduated home-schooling mom of four with two college students staying in the nest for a little longer. She and her hubby of 34 years also share their North Texas home with a rescue pup named Rosie. When Marji isn’t editing or publishing the books for her authors at Write Integrity Press, she indulges in penning her own mystery, suspense, and romance novels. She loves acting in musical comedy, has directed many stage productions, leads a high school Bible study and sings in her church choir. She prefers mountains to beaches, dogs to cats, NASCAR to football, Magnolia pie, white roses, green, and Hallmark Movies and Mysteries. You can find her at her website: MarjiLaine.com

About the Narrator

christaheadshot (1) Speaking Life into Story

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