Heather Greer's Blog, page 19
March 21, 2022
Main Character Monday Interview with O.D. Billings Giveaway
Welcome back to another Main Character Monday. Today’s goest is O.D. Billings from Hope Takes the Reins by Jenny Carlisle. Readers read all the way through today’s post to find out how you can win a copy of Hope Takes the Reins (US entrants only). O.D. why don’t you start us off by telling us a little about yourself.
Where do I start? I’m the middle of three sons. I live in a small town in the Arkansas River Valley called Crossroads. If you’ve ever been to the Caldwell Family Rodeo there, you will have seen me doing pretty well at tying down calves, with the help of my really terrific horse, Buck.
Tell me something about you that readers may find surprising?
I gave bull-riding a try, but even though most people think it’s the most exciting and glamorous event, I prefer tie-down. It takes more than just hanging on for eight seconds. There is a real science to capturing those slippery little critters, and I love the way the cowboy and the horse work together.
So, no bull-riding for you then. But I love that tie-down showcases a skill cowboys really need. Next question. What is your favorite book of the Old Testament?
Probably Exodus. Moses was a really great leader. He brought the Israelites out of slavery, even though at times they fought him, and complained when God was literally dropping food out of the sky. I kind of think it’s unfair that he didn’t get to the promised land though. Was it really fair that God kept him out just for one mess-up?
I see your point on that, and at times it doesn’t seem fair. But it does give us a good picture of how holiness isn’t holiness unless it’s sinless. And it reminds us of our need for a Savior who is holy. Speaking of the hard stuff, is there a book of the Bible you have trouble getting through?
Any of the books with the repetitious details about sacrifices, building the temple, the “begats”. Details are not my thing at all.
Those begats are hard for a lot of us! Excluding Jesus, who is the one person from the Bible you would like to meet?
The Apostle Paul. Without spoilers from Ms. Jenny’s story, he has become really important to me.
Paul definitely has an inspiring story. I’m interested to learn how it has spoken to you. Jesus had twelve disciples. Which one are you most like?
Definitely Peter. His heart is in the right place, but he often thinks he knows best, and pushes ahead without thinking of consequences.
Sounds like a lot of us, doesn’t it? Jesus says we are to be His light in the world. What does this mean to you?
Setting a good example for those who are watching. I am for sure still working on this.
If you could leave readers with one message, what would it be?
Don’t give up. God is on your side and will help you if you will just let him be in control.
That is a great message we all need to remember. Now, I’d like to ask some fun questions, just to give readers a little better sense of who you are. If you could have a superpower, what one would you choose?
The ability to swoop down at just the right time, like Superman, to rescue someone from making a big mistake or getting hurt.
If offered the opportunity, would you choose to travel in space?
I don’t think so. Being weightless and floating around like that doesn’t appeal. I would rather have my feet firmly planted or be sitting on a horse with all four hooves on the ground.
I think I have to side with you on that one! A horse over a space shuttle any day of the week. Now for some rapid fire questions.
Dark or Milk Chocolate? Is there a difference? All chocolate is good.
Roses or Daisies? Daisies. Because you’re more likely to see a field full of them. Also, my best friend Hope loves them, too.
Salad or Soup? Soup, if chili counts.
If you were to describe Jenny Carlisle with three words, how would you do it?
Ms. Jenny? She’s persistent, imaginative, and motherly. I think she and my mom would really hit it off.
I want to thank O.D. for his time today and Jenny Carlisle for letting him come over for a visit on this Main Character Monday with O.D. Billings. Keep reading to find out more about Jenny and Hope Takes the Reins. And if you have any questions for Jenny or O.D., just drop them in the comments below. Everyone (US entrants only) who leaves a question will be entered into the drawing to win a copy of Hope Takes the Reins. The drawing will take place and the winner will be announced Monday, March 28, 2022.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
O.D. Billings has problems beyond the awkward name that led him to use only initials years ago. Now that his war hero older brother has returned, their dad thinks he can turn over managing their truck dealership and start to prepare for retirement. But the hometown hero is not ready for new responsibility, and O.D. saddles up to make things right, while keeping an eye on his younger brother, who is set on being the greatest bull-rider Crossroads, Arkansas has ever seen.
Nineteen years old is very young to take on the business end of a family rodeo, but Hope Caldwell feels she has no choice after cancer takes away her mom. She is used to helping behind the scenes as her dad handles the announcing, sister Faith excels at barrel racing, and brother Junior entertains the crowd as a rodeo clown.
On the family’s first night back after the funeral, an overdressed stranger seems to be conspiring with Hope’s uncle to make a huge change to the only life she’s known since before she could braid her own pig-tails.
Will these two long-time neighbors finally realize that they don’t have to shoulder their burdens alone? Will teaming up to help each other be the right path, or will they continue to stumble over their own cowboy boots on the way to finding God’s direction for their lives?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Jenny has been writing stories since she learned to hold a pencil. She retired from a career in Human 
Resources for the State of Arkansas. She was a long-time columnist for Ouachita Life magazine, and two collections of her inspirational articles have been self-published. Jenny is also past president of American Christian Fiction Writers – Arkansas Chapter and past president of Saline County Preservation, Inc. Her first fiction project, “When Hope Takes the Reins” released from Scrivenings Press in March of 2022. She and her husband, James live in Benton, Arkansas where they worship with a service oriented congregation of the Church of Christ. They are the parents of three married children and eight grandchildren. She enjoys substituting a few days of the week in middle school, junior high and high school classrooms.
CONNECT WITH JENNY:
Jenny McLeod Carlisle | Facebook
Jenny McLeod Carlisle | Facebook (author page)
Jenny McLeod Carlisle – Seeking, Waiting, Walking (jennycarlisle.com)
Jenny Carlisle (@jennycarlisle3) / Twitter
WHERE TO FIND THE BOOK:
https://www.amazon.com/Hope-Takes-Reins-Crossroads-Book-ebook/dp/B09SFQ2C4M/ref
And don’t forget, leave a question for Jenny or O.D. to be entered into the drawing that takes place on March 28, 2022! And come back again for another Main Character Monday interview.
The post Main Character Monday Interview with O.D. Billings Giveaway appeared first on Heather Greer.
March 18, 2022
Turtle Heart: On Tour with Celebrate Lit
Turtle Heart: On Tour with Celebrate Lit
About the Book
Book: Turtle Heart
Author: Lucinda J. Kinsinger
Genre: Memoir
Release date: February 22, 2022
What happens when a sheltered young Mennonite befriends an ornery old Ojibwe woman in order to lead her to Christ—and finds that old woman has more to teach her about God and humanity than she ever dreamed? These two women from widely differing cultures and belief systems soon build a connection that runs deeper than their differences. Kinsinger’s memoir of friendship reads like a novel, at once riveting and introspective, timeless and surprising.
Turtle Heart invites you into the world and perspective of a young Mennonite woman who allows love to lead her beyond her comfort zone into uncharted territory.
MY THOUGHTS:
Simple and beautiful. Complex and ugly. Everything that life and friendships are put into the words on the page. Days after reading Turtle Heart, I’m still unpacking exactly how I feel about it. Beautifully written, the story captivated me from the start. The unique way the author tells the story of her unlikely friendship drew me in.
Dealing honestly with life and relationships means refusing to turn away from the hard stuff, the stuff you want to pretend isn’t there. Turtle Heart faces these things head on as a young woman with sheltered life experiences connects with an elderly lady who has collected many of the hard things of life. The result is a relationship that sometimes feels unhealthy as I read about it. At the same time, I can’t deny the beauty of two very different people coming together in a friendship that is willing to move beyond their differences and conflicts. I can’t help seeing how life’s hurts have had a hand in shaping the less desirable traits of their friendship and applauding the author for choosing to shower God’s love on her friend through giving her own love so consistently.
Through the good and bad of the friendship, God brought two women to greater understanding of their faith, their Creator, and what it means to be a friend. Turtle Heart is one woman’s account of this friendship drenched in contrasts that challenge readers to look a little closer at their own friendships and how they give love to others. I give this memoir four stars.
Click here to get your copy!
About the Author
Lucinda J Kinsinger has always viewed herself as a shy little Mennonite girl but refuses to let that stop her from pursuing what she loves—whether that’s writing with honesty and vulnerability or traveling to a remote village in China. She is the author of two memoirs—Turtle Heart: Unlikely Friends with a Life Changing Bond and Anything But Simple: My Life as a Mennonite, as well as a children’s book, The Arrowhead. She writes a column for Anabaptist World Review and blogs at lucindajkinsinger.com. Lucinda lives with her farmer husband Ivan and her baby daughter Annalise in the rolling hills of Oakland, Maryland.
More from Lucinda
I Met an Old Lady
On a foggy morning one early March, I met a tiny woman encased in a puffy tan coat. I loved her from the moment I saw her—the tiny, intense perfection of her, the way her glasses sat sharp and clean on her face, the bright look of her slanted eyes, and the way all her wrinkles massed upward when she smiled. She was Ojibwe. Her name was Charlene.
At that time, I drove for a company called Indianhead Transit and had been assigned to take Charlene to her dialysis appointment. I helped her to my car, my steps excruciatingly slow to match hers, got into the driver’s seat, and backed into the foggy street. “The Ojibwe have a saying about the fog,” Charlene said. “They say, ‘The Creator sent the clouds to earth.’”
We talked a lot about God that dialysis trip. “I am amazed at how He made everything on earth round,” she told me. “The leaves are round, the drops of water are round, the scales on a fish are round, and even the little blades of grass, when they first come up, are curled into a ball. It just makes me love Him so much.” There was wonder in her voice, joy in her eyes.
I asked her if she believed in Jesus. She considered a moment. “Yes, the Ojibwe have taken the Creator’s Son, Jesus.” But when I mentioned the Bible, she snapped, “The Bible is just a white man’s book!”
I wondered how she could believe in Jesus while not believing in the Book that taught about Him.
As I got to know Charlene better, I found her a study in contrasts.
She would coo at her little dog in the sappiest, drippiest form of baby talk possible, and fifteen minutes later when the dog displeased her, would yell so harshly it would streak for its crate, her hand raised threateningly behind it.
She was the sharpest, meanest little lady I ever knew, with a perverse sense of humor and a penchant for original slams. “I dig your shoes!” she crowed to a Croc-shod woman once. “Dig a hole and bury them,” she muttered as the woman passed.
She was the most loyal and loving lady I ever knew, a lover of beauty, lover of God. Once she went hunting and when she had the opportunity to shoot a buck, couldn’t do it—the buck was just too beautiful, she told me.
She held a vehement dislike of Black people and spoke so disrespectfully of them I grew angry. Then she turned around and voted for Obama in national elections.
By that time, I realized that with Charlene, you had two choices: you could let her drive you mad, or you could accept her. I chose to accept her.
She also chose to accept me.
She understood what it was to be Mennonite and different. After all, she had grown up Ojibwe and different. She didn’t ask, like others might, if I got cold in the winter because I didn’t wear pants or why I couldn’t go to the fair. She accepted my oddities as a matter of course.
“People have to label everything. Whether Mennonite or half-breed, they label you and that’s what you are to them,” she said to me one day. “But our friendship doesn’t have to fit a label.”
Fit a label our friendship did not.
We were different in almost every way—one young and one old, one shy and one feisty, one sheltered and one who had experienced the harshness of life. And yet in the middle was a spot we connected, where we shared nerve and muscle and bone like conjoined twins.
She dispelled multiple prejudices of mine—yes, I also carried them—and taught me to see that people are people wherever you find them, taught me I could understand and be understood by someone from a very different background.
Charlene did eventually read the Bible I gave her and grew in faith as a result.
I also grew. She, with her fresh eyes and unboxed faith, strengthened and deepened my own faith as few people have. I learned from her to see God in the small, everyday things of life that even a child can understand—things like fog and blades of grass and water at the kitchen sink.
I wrote a book about our friendship. The book is called Turtle Heart: Unlikely Friends with a Life-Changing Bond and came out recently with Elk Lake Publishing. It is available on Amazon.
Blog StopsTruth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 5
A Reader’s Brain, March 6
Texas Book-aholic, March 7
All-of-kind Mom, March 8
Lots of Helpers, March 9
A Melodious Sonnet, March 9
Inklings and notions, March 10
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 11
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 12
deb’s Book Review, March 13
Locks, Hooks and Books, March 14
For Him and My Family, March 15
Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, March 16
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 17
Mary Hake, March 17
By the Book, March 18
Giveaway
To celebrate her tour, Lucinda is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card with a copy of the book!!
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/1b4c2/turtle-heart-celebration-tour-giveaway
The post Turtle Heart: On Tour with Celebrate Lit appeared first on Heather Greer.
March 16, 2022
Running Late: Wednesday in the Word
It feels like I’m constantly running late. Whether I start getting ready early or hit my snooze button a record number of times, it doesn’t seem to matter. Something happens. I get behind.
My daughter bought me a t-shirt for Christmas a couple years ago. It’s a beautiful, bright blue color that instantly makes me smile, but that’s not the important part. The company that makes the t-shirt creates literature related products. This shirt has the image from the cover of The Poky Little Puppy on it.
Do you remember those Little Golden Books? Poky Little Puppy is one of those. And one day when I was wearing it, my husband turned to me in great seriousness and said, “I never knew a t-shirt could be prophetic.” I didn’t think his humor was very funny. A bit true, maybe, but not funny.
Whether it’s lost keys, lost shoes, or a lost purse (perhaps I should work on not losing things), I fall behind. If it’s an early morning, I simply don’t go at full speed. It takes me a bit to get fully awake and productive. I move at my own pace, and there are times when that means I have to rush in other areas to arrive on time.
I was reminded of my own tendency to run late as I read these verses in Habakkuk this morning. Though at times it seems like God’s help isn’t going to arrive on time or His answer won’t make it before I have to make a move, nothing could be further from the truth. Even as I look at the chaos of the world around me and anticipate His second coming, I have to remember God is always on time.
It may seem like God is running late with answers, provision, strength, or whatever else I need. But He isn’t. He doesn’t. God’s a much better time keeper than I am. He knows the perfect time for everything. And that is precisely when He delivers.
Is there a verse you use to remind yourself God is always perfectly on time?
The post Running Late: Wednesday in the Word appeared first on Heather Greer.
March 14, 2022
Main Character Monday: Broderick Cosgrove Interview
Welcome back to Main Character Monday and today’s interview with Broderick Cosgrove. Broderick comes to us from Counterfeit Love by Crystal Caudill. We’re excited to have you with us today, Broderick. Why don’t you start us off by telling us a bit about yourself?
I come from a long line of detectives. In fact, my family runs and owns the Cosgrove Detective Agency. At one time, our entire family worked as detectives for the business, but now I work for the Secret Service as an undercover operative investigating counterfeiters.
Undercover. Sounds dangerous. Tell me something about you that readers may find surprising.
My least favorite task when growing up was memorizing all the streets and alleys of Cincinnati. My father required it of all his detectives, but it was tedious. To make it fun, my brothers and I would create scenarios where we had to plan escape routes with obstacles constantly being tossed in the way so we had to change routes on the spot.
I can see why that would be important. What is your favorite Bible verse and why?
Psalm 82:4-5 “Defend the poor and fatherless: Do justice to the afflicted and needy. Deliver the poor and needy: Rid them out of the hand of the wicked.” This is the mission statement of the Cosgrove Detective Agency and what God has called me to live according in my personal life.
It’s wonderful that your family’s agency is run according to a scriptural principle. Is there a person from the Bible that you relate to most?
Not that I can think of, but I’ve always looked toward David as a comfort. He was known as a man after God’s own heart and yet he was incredibly fallible and made some massive mistakes in his life. Yet God still used him for good. If he can still be considered a man after God’s heart after doing all that, then there is hope for me yet.
His story is one of my favorites too and for the same reason. 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?
Honestly, it depends on who I need to show them to, but I’d like to think I’m pretty good in the area of self-control. I’ve had to do a lot of self-denial over the years.
Is there one that is more challenging than the others?
Again, it depends on who I have to show them to, but peace is probably the biggest struggle for me. I’ve come to terms with some of the choices I’ve made, but I’ve not quite forgiven myself for them.
That can be a difficult thing to do. If you could give one message to those reading this interview, what would you tell them?
Families are messy and sometimes they do things that feel unforgivable. However, forgiveness isn’t about saying what they did was okay, but about making the choice to no longer hold it against them. It’s a choice that allows healing in your own life.
What a beautiful message for our readers to take to heart. Before I get into some just for fun questions, I want to remind everyone that if you have questions or thoughts to share with Broderick or for Crystal Caudill, please drop them in the comments. We’d love to hear from you!
Now on to the fun questions. If you could visit just one place your entire life, where would you go?
I’m generally content where I am. I’ve seen much of the country with my job as a Secret Service operative, but I suppose it would be fun to take Theresa to the Louvre in Paris as she loves to sketch and paint. Her joy would be mine.
That’s really sweet. If you could choose one talent you don’t already have, what talent would you choose?
The ability to persuade Theresa to choose logic over impulse. However, I’m not sure there is anyone in the world who could do that. Although, it would make my job so much easier.
It definitely sounds like there’s an intriguing story hidden in that answer. Now for some quick answer questions.
Dark or Milk Chocolate?
I believe it was developed in 1875 and since it’s only 1884, it’s rather new. So I’ll go with milk just because it is unique to our time.
Beach or Mountains?
Mountains. I’ve had some traumatic experiences with water.
Sweet Tea or Lemonade?
Lemonade.
One final question, Broderick. If you had to describe Crystal Caudill in three words, how would you do it?
Crystal has put me through some pretty rough paces. So, I’d have to say stubborn, cruel, and insufferable.
Paired with your earlier answer about Theresa, this one makes me believe there is an exciting story waiting for those who read Counterfeit Love. Readers, keep reading to find out more about Crystal Caudill and where you can get your copy of Broderick’s story.
More on Crystal Caudill:
Crystal is the author of “dangerously good historical romance,” with her work garnering awards from Romance Writers of America and ACFW. She is a stay-at-home mom and caregiver, and when she isn’t writing, Crystal can be found playing board games with her family, drinking hot tea, or reading other great books at her home outside Cincinnati, Ohio. Find out more at crystalcaudill.com.
Links:
Website: https://crystalcaudill.com/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crystalcaudillsreadingfriends/
GoodReads: https://www.goodreads.com/crystalcaudillauthor
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/crystal-caudill
Newsletter Sign-Up: https://bitly.com/CaudillNewsMore about Counterfeit Love:Can this undercover agent save the woman he loves–or is her heart as counterfeit as the money he’s been sent to track down?
The post Main Character Monday: Broderick Cosgrove Interview appeared first on Heather Greer.
March 11, 2022
Slashed Canvas: On Tour with Celebrate Lit
Slashed Canvas: On Tour With Celebrate Lit
About the Book
Book: Slashed Canvas
Author: Liz Tolsma
Genre: Christian Historical Mystery, Fairytale
Release date: February 1, 2022
Held prisoner by all she’s lost, Katarina’s about to lose all she has.
Grand Duchess Katarina Volstova barely escaped the Russian revolution, arriving in Paris just before the birth of her twin daughters. With her heart still captive in her homeland, she haunts the Louvre each day, spending hours gazing at one painting, lost in her pain.
Not the man he once was, Timothy Smythe never returned home to England after the Great War. Instead, he hides himself away doing maintenance in the Louvre and watching the beautiful woman whose pain seems riveted on one painting.
When Katarina returns home to find her daughters and their nanny missing, the loss opens her eyes to all she has to lose now.
Frantic to find her girls, her distress causes Timothy to offer his assistance. Together they put together clues to a puzzle they must complete before the kidnapper ensures Katarina and her daughters are never reunited.
Slashed Canvas offers a retelling of The Lost Princess that mingles self-centered grief, spoiled little girls, and proof that nothing will stop a mother from saving her children.
MY THOUGHTS: Crushing grief and an inability to let go of the past keep Katarina from embracing her present, including her twin daughters. When faced with their loss, Katarina learns that saying they mean the world to her and really meaning it are two different things. Grief and guilt and the lure of what’s been left behind blend together in an entertaining story that doesn’t leave the reader weighed down as it also offers hope for the future.
I give Slashed Canvas four stars.
Click here to get your copy!
About the Author
Liz Tolsma is the author of several WWII novels, romantic suspense novels, prairie romance novellas, and an Amish romance. She is a popular speaker and an editor and resides next to a Wisconsin farm field with her husband and their youngest daughter. Her son is a US Marine, and her oldest daughter is a college student. Liz enjoys reading, walking, working in her large perennial garden, kayaking, and camping. Please visit her website at www.liztolsma.com and follow her on Facebook, Twitter (@LizTolsma), Instagram, YouTube, and Pinterest. She is also the host of the Christian Historical Fiction Talk podcast.
More from Liz
How Slashed Canvas Came to Be
It was the last evening of the SoCal Christian Writer’s Conference three years ago. A group of us decided that frozen yogurt sounded good, so we walked the few blocks from the university where the conference was being held to the local fro-yo shop.
On the way back, I was walking alongside fellow author Chautona Havig. We were chatting about various projects we had underway, and she mentioned that she and Sandy Barela from Celebrate Lit had come up with an idea for a boxed set. This involved taking a fairy-tale and turning it into a 1920s mystery. Would I be interested?
You don’t have to ask me twice if I’d like to be in a set with Chautona that’s put out by Sandy. Before I knew what was happening, I was agreeing to it. Then we got talking about what fairy tales I might use. As soon as she said The Lost Princess, an idea sparked in my brain. It really was that instant. 1920s. Princess. Russia. Exile.
This might come as a surprise to both Chautona and Sandy, but I really didn’t know the story of The Lost Princess. Not at all. When I was working up the idea, I had to read the story and figure out how to make my idea mesh with the fairy tale. Thankfully, the story did work well with what I intended to do with Slashed Canvas.
And that title? Well, that was quite difficult. At the time, my niece was staying with us and interning for me. One night, we sat and ran through idea after idea until we came up with “Something” Canvas. I wanted a strong adjective and we offered and rejected many until we came up with Slashed Canvas. I hadn’t written a word of the book, but I managed to work a slashed canvas into the story.
And what about the painting in Slashed Canvas? I knew I wanted it to be by a Russian artist and hang in the Louvre, but there weren’t (and aren’t) many paintings like that in the Louvre. Russia has been loath to allow any of its art to leave the country. So what was I going to do? I really was going crazy.
Then I spoke on the phone to Kristy Cambron. Not only is she a fabulous author, but she also has a degree in art history. It was her idea to make up my own painting. That way, I could make it work however I needed it to for the story. What a relief. I did just that, and the story flowed from there.
And the clues to the mystery? Those were my dad’s ideas. I won’t say more because I don’t want to spoil anything!
So that’s how Slashed Canvas came to be. It was the work of so many different people. Authors, much as we hide behind our computers, never work in a vacuum. Very often, there are many fingers in the pie to make the finished product.
Blog Stops
Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 7
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 7
Texas Book-aholic, March 8
For the Love of Literature, March 8
Inklings and notions, March 9
Christian Bookaholic, March 9
For Him and My Family, March 10
Elly Gilbert, March 10
deb’s Book Review, March 11
By the Book, March 11
Locks, Hooks and Books, March 12
Blossoms and Blessings, March 12
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 13
Paula’s Persuasion, March 13
Connie’s History Classroom, March 14
Genesis 5020, March 14
Babbling Becky L’ s Book Impressions, March 15
Older & Smarter?, March 15
A Modern Day Fairy Tale, March 16 (Spotlight)
Blogging With Carol, March 16
Simple Harvest Reads, March 16 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)
Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, March 17
Maureen’s Musings, March 17
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 18
Connect in Fiction, March 18
Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, March 19 (Author Interview)
Back Porch Reads, March 19
Mary Hake, March 19
Through the Fire Blogs, March 20
The Book Club Network, March 20
Giveaway
To celebrate her tour, Liz is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and copy of the book!!
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/1b4c3/slashed-canvas-celebration-tour-giveaway
The post Slashed Canvas: On Tour with Celebrate Lit appeared first on Heather Greer.
March 9, 2022
Waiting: Wednesday in the Word
“I hate waiting.” When Inigo Montoya utters those words at the top of the Cliffs of Insanity in The Princess Bride, I feel them.
Society doesn’t reward waiting. We graduate from college and expect a great, high-paying job. No entry level positions or working our way up. Microwaves cook food in a fraction of the time, yet we still tap our feet in front of it while it warms our lunch. Buy now, pay later is the siren call of credit card companies. Not only do they promise we don’t have to wait, they reward us with points as they take advantage of our impatience.
Waiting is not in style. It’s no wonder we’re anxious people. Like everything else in our lives, we’ve trained ourselves to expect answers now. We get everything immediately. When we’re asked to wait, and especially when waiting for an unknown, it creates a sense of unease. As answers fail to materialize, our anxiety goes up a notch, or two, or three.
But quick doesn’t mean good. That quick chicken sandwich from the drive through doesn’t compare to a freshly made chicken sandwich. Immediately having the new computer or wardrobe or whatever else you buy on credit seems great. But too often, we fail to count the cost and end up over our heads in debt. No wonder we don’t want that entry level job and pay!
While it goes against our nature and societal norms to wait, that isn’t God’s way. Yes, He can give us things immediately. Sometimes He does. But only when now also means best.
Early on, I knew I wanted to write. As a young adult, I worked jobs having nothing to do with my writing dream because I had bills. I took care of my family. And, as I could, I stole little bits of time to write. Even when I decided it was time to get serious and follow the path I knew God had for me, I had to squeeze in writing time between my 9-5 and my family.
If this was God’s plan for me, why couldn’t I simply pursue it? I knew what I was called to do, and I was chomping at the bit to fully embrace it. Circumstances prevented it, and I didn’t understand why. I was ready.
Only I wasn’t. I didn’t see it, but God knew it all along. Every time I questioned, He confirmed my path enough to keep me moving forward. But each time He also tightened the reins to keep me from running ahead.
I worked on my craft, started a few projects, sold a few devotions, and attended conferences. During these years, I was coming back from personal devastation. I didn’t see it, but God was allowing me to heal before moving me forward. Why? Because that’s the story He wanted me to write.
My first book, Faith’s Journey, is fiction. Katie’s problems are not my own, but her story is the story of my heart. I had to heal enough to put it into words that could entertain while also encouraging others that their pain is not the end. I had to see beauty come from my ashes before I could adequately describe the process of hope for others. In short, I had to wait until the time was right.
God knew that when I didn’t.
Even after getting serious about pursuing writing, God didn’t drop me into the life of a full-time writer. I worked a full-time job and had other ministries demanding my time. It’s taken over ten years for me to reach the point of writing full-time. And I’m not able to because my writing income has met or exceeded my regular income. It hasn’t. Our family has simply reached a place financially that, with sacrifices, allows it.
Through this time of waiting, I learned balance. Creative problem solving became a close friend of mine. I learned to push myself, and how to do it without sacrificing my family. I gained understanding of the frustrations other writers in the same position face. And in the end, I wrote and sold four books while working a full-time job, mothering my children, serving as a pastor’s wife, and directing a youth camp. I never dreamed accomplishing so much with so little would be possible.
God knew that when I didn’t.
And He used the waiting to make it happen. Yes, I got tired. When I didn’t feel I could do it anymore, He always gave me the endurance I needed to keep going. It may have come in spurts, but it never failed to come on time.
Through waiting God strengthened me as a believer and as a writer. I know His provision and faithfulness firsthand. Watching Him turn ashes into a thing of beauty is an experience I will treasure forever. The lessons I’ve learned through these times will stay with me, pushing me on when I find myself waiting yet again and allowing me to encourage others in their own waiting times.
Maybe waiting isn’t so bad after all.
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March 7, 2022
Main Character Monday: Pastor Daniel Whitefield
Welcome back to Main Character Monday where today we’re interviewing Pastor Daniel Whitefield from New Wine Transportation Company by Heather Norman Smith.
Pastor Daniel, why don’t you start us off by telling us a bit about yourself.
I’ve been pastor of Springville Community Christian Church in Springville, North Carolina for over twenty years. Just recently, I retired from my public job as an accountant, so now I can focus on full-time ministry. I’m married to my college sweetheart, Marsha, and we have one daughter, Claire, who is in college now. I don’t have many hobbies—no time, really—unless you count enjoying biscuits and gravy at Speedy’s Diner.
As a pastor’s wife, I know it has to be a blessing to move from bi-vocational ministry to focusing on pastoring full-time. You’ve given us some basics. Why don’t you share something readers may find surprising about you.
People are naturally surprised to learn about my recent run-in with the law, and at first, I was so ashamed that I didn’t like to talk about it. But now, it’s part of my testimony. God forgives. And we must forgive, too. That’s what I should have done instead of punching the man that disrespected my daughter.
I have to admit, you surprised me. Not that pastor’s can’t make mistakes like everyone else. They do. We all do. But I’m happy to hear your experience has become part of your testimony. God will use your story in the lives of others. Speaking of growing from the lives of others, what is your favorite book in the New Testament and why?
I love them all, but I’ll say Romans. It explains how to become a child of God so clearly, which is the most important thing anyone can do, and the book teaches us that all things work together for our good and that nothing can separate us from the love of God.
Very true. Romans is stuffed full of what we need to hear. God called Gideon to lead his army. Gideon didn’t believe he could, but he trusted and did as God asked. Have you ever felt like you weren’t equipped to do what God asked you to do? What did you do?
Most definitely! When Main Street Bar opened downtown, I put together a team of men to volunteer to give people a ride home from the bar if they needed it, so that we could witness to them and invite them to church. It didn’t always go as planned, and there were times that my men and I felt like we were in over our heads. But we had to remember that God was in control, and we had to just keep trusting.
What a wonderful ministry. It brings me to our next question. Micah 6:8 says, “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” Is there one of these you find easier to accomplish? Is one harder?
Kindness is definitely the easiest of the three, because it has a clearer definition. Justice and humility are a little more subjective. We have to rely on the Holy Spirit to discern what is just in each situation, and to help us separate healthy pride from the sinful kind.
Well said. If you could leave readers with one message, what would it be?
God loves you.
Oh, and if you’re ever in Springville, we’d love to have you join us at Springville Community Christian Church.
And now, we’re going to move on to some light-hearted, fun questions. If you could have one exotic pet, what would it be?
I’d pass on an exotic pet. My cat, Chewy, likes all the attention for himself.
If you could travel through time, would you?
Maybe just once. Back to my high school football days, for a big game. That would be nice.
And we’ll finish up with some rapid-fire, either or questions.
Sunrise or sunset?
Sunrise- because His mercies are new every morning.
Chocolate or Vanilla?
Chocolate- especially in the milkshakes from the Soda Shop downtown
No electricity or no plumbing?
That’s a tough one. We’re so blessed to have both. I’ll go with no electricity.
And one final question. How would you describe Heather Norman Smith in three words?
Child of God
Pastor Daniel, thank you for taking time with us today on Main Character Monday. It sounds like you’ve got a wonderful ministry that has given you a story or two to tell. In fact, I encourage all our readers to keep reading to find out about Heather Norman Smith before going to find out more about your story.
About the Author:
The post Main Character Monday: Pastor Daniel Whitefield appeared first on Heather Greer.
March 4, 2022
On Tour With Celebrate Lit: Oathbound
On Tour with Celebrate Lit: Oathbound Review
About the Book
Book: Oathbound
Author: Victoria McCombs
Genre: YA Fantasy
Release date: February 15, 2022
Beware the waters. The dangerous deep brings ruin to all.
Emme has spent her life avoiding anything to do with pirates. But the fates are cruel, and now a hidden sickness leads her to partner with pirates for the one thing that can save her—a cure on an island none are certain exists.
The pirate captain’s secrets are darker than the deep and threaten to kill them all. His obligations are tinged with betrayal, for his oathbind must be fulfilled. To ignore it is to invite peril of unimaginable destruction.
As the adventure unfolds, the sea takes more than she expects and the sea gives more than he wants.
MY THOUGHTS: If you love pirates, fantastical creatures, and hunting for treasure, you’re need to read Oathbound. The author wove an enjoyable tale of adventure on the seas meant for the YA audience but easily enjoyed by adults as well.
While not a faith-based read, the story is a clean read suitable for the younger end of the YA spectrum. And the very flawed (after all they are pirates) main characters do learn lessons about making wise choices, facing fears, the price of lies, and where to place your loyalty.
I will say, those who avoid magic in the books they read may want to avoid this story. It has several magic creatures and weapons. But if you don’t have an issue with those things, you’re going to enjoy this book. I give it four stars.
Click here to get your copy!
About the Author
Victoria McCombs is the author of The Storyteller’s Series from Parliament House Press, and Oathbound. She writes young adult fantasy and adores stories about treacherous pirates and traitorous princes. Her favorite things include peppermint hot chocolate, peanut butter ice cream, game nights with family, and Jesus. She has her mom to thank for allowing so many medieval weapons inside the house as she was growing up, which curated her love for that time period. She is a mom of three little boys and a wife to the handsomest accountant there is. Together they live in Omaha, Nebraska.
More from Victoria
Oathbound was my quarantine book. I remember getting the idea and thinking “I don’t know of any other pirate books in the YA fantasy genre.” Of course, after that, I saw them everywhere, and several amazing ones have come out since. But theses broken pirates had grabbed my attention and I couldn’t let go.
One aspect of my book makes it unique, and that comes in our main character. My characters are a reflection of me, but none more so than Emme. We see early on that she is sick, and while the disease is made up for the book, it’s mirrored exactly by the disease that runs in my family called ataxia. This is a disease that impairs every part of life before it ends it too soon. I’ve never opened those emotions so fully to put them on a page, but Emme and I were going through this together. While I’m lucky not to have symptoms yet (and the chance to never have to go through it), this disability is something I understand deeply, and I’m honored to bring it to life on the page to show the strength that can lie within even when our bodies fail us.
I hope you all enjoy Oathbound!
Blog Stops
Texas Book-aholic, February 28
Library Lady’s Kid Lit, March 1
Wishful Endings, March 1
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 2
Inklings and notions, March 3
For Him and My Family, March 4
By the Book, March 4
Locks, Hooks and Books, March 5
Nancy E Wood, March 6
Blogging With Carol, March 6
deb’s Book Review, March 7
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 8
Labor Not in Vain, March 8
Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, March 9
A Modern Day Fairy Tale, March 10 (Spotlight)
Inside the Wong Mind, March 10
Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, March 11
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 12
Through the Fire Blogs, March 12
Artistic Nobody, March 13
Giveaway
To celebrate her tour, Victoria is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!
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/1b061/oathbound-celebration-tour-giveaway
The post On Tour With Celebrate Lit: Oathbound appeared first on Heather Greer.
March 2, 2022
Special Gifts: Wednesday in the Word
We’ve all received special gifts that we treasure, but I’m sure we’ve also received some that we weren’t quite sure what to do with them. Maybe they even left us wondering why the giver chose that gift for us. I received one of those from my husband back when we were dating.
His pride over such a great find was evident as I opened the little ceramic faced clown. It was one of those dolls where the body is bendable and clothed, this one in shiny, colorful clown wear. The face, however, is ceramic. And this one was particularly clown-like. That is not a compliment.
Though I’ve never liked clowns and actually kind of find most of them creepy, I kept this gift displayed. Andy thought he’d bought me one of those special gifts I would treasure for a lifetime. Not even close. Eventually I asked him what prompted this gift. He told me because of the ceramic masks I displayed on my wall, he thought I would enjoy clowns. The masks he referenced were comedy and tragedy masks that reminded me of my involvement with my high school’s theater group. They were definitely not a clue into a secret love for clowns.
Gifts that miss the mark happen. Re-gifting does too. Though it is a dangerous game to play. Like Andy, the person who gave the gift probably thought they were giving you something you’d love for years to come. Any time I’ve thought of re-gifting something, the image of the original giver finding out their special gift was given to another stops me. I would be disappointed to know a gift I put so much thought into was given to another. I don’t want to cause that in another.
Sometimes we treat God’s special gifts to us as if they were gift-giving mistakes. We don’t understand why God gave us this gift instead of that one. The one the person across the aisle got is much better than ours. We put our gift on a shelf in the back of our spiritual closet and let it collect dust. Maybe the gift seems too small or feels like it creates more work for us. Whatever the reason, we neglect the gift.
We fail to realize God specially picks His gifts to us, and God is not like our friends. He knows us more intimately than we know ourselves. God created us and gave us our talents, passions, and personalities. He knows what each day is going to bring, and He knows what gifts will allow us to best serve others in His love. God never has to wonder what gift would be best. He knows. He never gives a gift He doesn’t want used. And He never gives a gift that belongs to someone else.
God always gives the most special gifts, and He means for them to be used to serve those around us. In sharing (not re-gifting) God’s gifts with those around us, we show them His love. Using our gifts as He guides us to will bring encouragement to those around us. They can help strengthen others for difficult situations. And they can teach others to walk a little closer to God than they were before.
Have you ever thought God gave you the wrong gift? Have you ever thought another’s gift was more special or useful than yours? I have. But now I thank God for the special gifts He’s given me and ask Him how He wants me to use them to show His love to others.
The post Special Gifts: Wednesday in the Word appeared first on Heather Greer.
February 23, 2022
Cravings: Wednesday in the Word
We’ve all had cravings. When I was pregnant with my first son, I wanted Long John Silvers at least two times a week for the last month. It goes without saying that I gained a lot of weight that pregnancy!
I wanted Taco Johns with my second and chili cheese coneys from Sonic with my third. But pregnancy isn’t the only time I’ve had cravings. Sometimes I just have to have a cold glass of Simply Lemonade Raspberry Lemonade. And yes, the craving is brand specific. Some days, I have to have something sweet or salty. Sometimes I start with one and then want the other.
Even if it isn’t a specific craving, there are times when hunger strikes that you simply can’t ignore the body’s demand for food. Ever wake up in the middle of the night feeling like you haven’t eaten in weeks? You know you need sleep, but you’re just as sure that if you don’t get up and take care of the hunger pangs you’re not going to get any more rest.
I’m not talking about that desire to eat that comes when you’re bored. That’s not really hunger, and we can often fight it without much effort. But when we can feel the hunger, when our bodies cry out for food, we can’t easily ignore it. It throws off our concentration. Productivity takes a nosedive. Energy drains until we can’t push on any more. All we can think about is what we’re going to eat to satisfy our growling bellies.
When did you last feel that kind of hunger for living a holy life? Not believing the idea that a Christian should or shouldn’t do such and such and so we do it. I’m not talking about making a right choice simply because it’s easy or what a good person would choose. I mean when was the last time the desire to know, experience, and show righteousness in your life was so overpowering that you couldn’t give your attention to anything else because you were consumed with filling that need?
When was the last time you wanted to understand righteousness and live a holy life so badly that it poured over into a craving to know God more because He is the source of righteousness and holiness?
I read my Bible. Praying throughout the day is normal for me, as is weekly church attendance. I don’t want to sin. I want to be the person God created me to be. It’s my goal to honor Him and be His ambassador to those around me. To use my talents and gifts to honor Him through serving others. But do I really crave God, His word, and living a holy life so much that I have to seek to satisfy that craving?
Or am I snacking on righteousness through the day only when it’s easy and convenient and calling it good? Am I snacking on other things that have nothing to do with righteousness and letting those dampen my hunger for God?
If we’re going to live the life God designed us to live, we have to want God and the life He designed us to live. It’s time we ask God to give us a craving for Him and for righteousness. It’s time we start listening to the cravings, not only in the bad times when we feel we need Him, but in the good times too. Let’s stop spiritual snacking and sit down to feast on God’s word and His presence in our lives.
As we give in to the craving for God, He will satisfy. But at the same time, we will find ourselves wanting more of Him. Only eternity completes the cycle. But it’s a cycle that moves us from simply craving righteousness to living it every day.
What helps you feast on God’s word and presence in your life each day?
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