Amy R. Anguish's Blog, page 16
August 24, 2023
Short Story--Office Surprise--Day 4
Welcome back to my annual birthday story. Ready to find out what happens next with David and Macy? Read on. Or, if you missed Day 1, Day 2, or Day 3, follow those links to catch up! 
Something strange was going on. David frowned as another coworker walked past his cubicle. An awful lot of traffic for a Tuesday afternoon. Had he missed a meeting memo?
A quick scan of his emails showed nothing. But three more walked by, whispering as they passed his desk. Maybe someday he’d have a close bond to some of his coworkers too. In the last month, he hadn’t really had time to get to know anyone. But surely that would change now that the Tyler project was wrapped up.
“Hey. Meeting in the conference room.” Macy poked her head through his doorway.
“I didn’t get a message about it.” David motioned toward his screen.
She shook her head. “It was last-minute.”
He frowned. “What’s it about?”
“Standard stuff. You know how it goes.” Macy moved her head in a ‘follow-me’ sort of way. “You coming?”
“If only to appease my curiosity.” He grabbed a memo pad and a pen. “Lead on.”
Macy was the perfect height, her forehead even with his chin. Her hair swung around her shoulders in brown waves. And she was the friendliest of the coworkers he’d met. Was that why he’d fixated on her for his plan? Or had the plan come about because of her?
Stepping into the conference room with her, it took him a moment to realize all eyes were fixed on him.
“Surprise!”
A chocolate cake sat in the middle of the table.
“Is it your birthday?” He asked Macy.
She blinked and laughed. “What? No. We don’t share a birthday.”
“Share a—”
Why did she think this was his birthday? Too late now. In for a penny, as they said. Everyone was already singing to him and he wasn’t about to embarrass them. He’d eat his cake and figure out the rest later.
One thing was certain. He wouldn’t leave today without making sure he had at least five minutes to talk to Macy. And they wouldn’t discuss stupid stuff like potholders or mirrors. He’d find out where this crazy party came from. And then he’d use it as leverage to see if he could make his own plans work.
He accepted a piece of chocolate confection from a girl named Hilary and smiled while he all the coworkers spouted good wishes. If nothing else, this had given him an opportunity to meet a few more people.
As men and women took their own afternoon snacks and headed back to various workspaces, Macy gathered up trash and swiped a lick of icing from the edge of the cake plate. David couldn’t resist smiling. It’s exactly what he would’ve done.
Macy spun around, hands full of napkins. “Oh. I didn’t realize you were still in here, David.”
“About to head back to work for a few more hours.”
She nodded. “Same.”
“Can I ask you a favor?”
She glanced back up, one brow raised. “Probably. What’s up?”
“I know we both have to work a bit more, but before you leave today, can I have five minutes?”
A wrinkle formed over her nose. “Um, sure. Everything okay?”
“Everything’s great.” He raised his cake plate in a salute and then headed back to his cubicle. Time to make his plan a reality.
Are you confused? One more day to wrap up this short story. What kind of plan do you think David has? Check back tomorrow to find out.
Something strange was going on. David frowned as another coworker walked past his cubicle. An awful lot of traffic for a Tuesday afternoon. Had he missed a meeting memo?A quick scan of his emails showed nothing. But three more walked by, whispering as they passed his desk. Maybe someday he’d have a close bond to some of his coworkers too. In the last month, he hadn’t really had time to get to know anyone. But surely that would change now that the Tyler project was wrapped up.
“Hey. Meeting in the conference room.” Macy poked her head through his doorway.
“I didn’t get a message about it.” David motioned toward his screen.
She shook her head. “It was last-minute.”
He frowned. “What’s it about?”
“Standard stuff. You know how it goes.” Macy moved her head in a ‘follow-me’ sort of way. “You coming?”
“If only to appease my curiosity.” He grabbed a memo pad and a pen. “Lead on.”
Macy was the perfect height, her forehead even with his chin. Her hair swung around her shoulders in brown waves. And she was the friendliest of the coworkers he’d met. Was that why he’d fixated on her for his plan? Or had the plan come about because of her?
Stepping into the conference room with her, it took him a moment to realize all eyes were fixed on him.
“Surprise!”
A chocolate cake sat in the middle of the table.
“Is it your birthday?” He asked Macy.
She blinked and laughed. “What? No. We don’t share a birthday.”
“Share a—”
Why did she think this was his birthday? Too late now. In for a penny, as they said. Everyone was already singing to him and he wasn’t about to embarrass them. He’d eat his cake and figure out the rest later.
One thing was certain. He wouldn’t leave today without making sure he had at least five minutes to talk to Macy. And they wouldn’t discuss stupid stuff like potholders or mirrors. He’d find out where this crazy party came from. And then he’d use it as leverage to see if he could make his own plans work.
He accepted a piece of chocolate confection from a girl named Hilary and smiled while he all the coworkers spouted good wishes. If nothing else, this had given him an opportunity to meet a few more people.
As men and women took their own afternoon snacks and headed back to various workspaces, Macy gathered up trash and swiped a lick of icing from the edge of the cake plate. David couldn’t resist smiling. It’s exactly what he would’ve done.
Macy spun around, hands full of napkins. “Oh. I didn’t realize you were still in here, David.”
“About to head back to work for a few more hours.”
She nodded. “Same.”
“Can I ask you a favor?”
She glanced back up, one brow raised. “Probably. What’s up?”
“I know we both have to work a bit more, but before you leave today, can I have five minutes?”
A wrinkle formed over her nose. “Um, sure. Everything okay?”
“Everything’s great.” He raised his cake plate in a salute and then headed back to his cubicle. Time to make his plan a reality.
Are you confused? One more day to wrap up this short story. What kind of plan do you think David has? Check back tomorrow to find out.
August 23, 2023
Short Story--Office Surprise--Day 3
Welcome back to my annual birthday story. Ready to find out what happens next with David and Macy? Read on. Or, if you missed Day 1, or Day 2, follow those links to catch up! 
“I don’t know, Macy. I’m sort of on a diet right now. Gotta stay thin enough to fit into my wedding dress next month, ya know.” Hilary ran her hands down her perfectly skinny waist and Macy barely kept herself from rolling her eyes.
“Even if you don’t eat the cake, you could still come sing.” Macy cocked an eyebrow. “I didn’t get a huge cake anyway. Our birthday budget was pretty much blown for the month already.”
“We have had a lot of birthdays lately.”
“Right?”
“If I remember, I’ll try to swing by. You said three?” Hilary jiggled her mouse to wake her computer back up.
“In the big conference room.” Macy backed out of the payroll office. “And tell the others when they get back from lunch.”
Hilary waved at Macy, but no telling if she actually heard her words or not. Something had already caught her eye on the monitor in front of her.
Macy huffed. Things were not going as well as she’d figured. Maybe people were birthday’d out or something, but barely anyone seemed excited about celebrating David this afternoon. They’d sure be put out if no one showed up to celebrate them on their day, but apparently it was too much trouble to give the same courtesy to their newest co-worker.
At least she didn’t have to worry as much about stretching that little cake. Those things cost much more than she’d expected. Especially for something so plain. She hadn’t even asked them to put words on the top.
She plugged her invitation in with a few more cubicles before her lunch hour ran out. It would have to do. With only so many hours in a day and not knowing about his birthday until this morning, her planning time was limited. Next year, she’d do better.
Assuming he stayed here after this sham of a celebration.
“Oh!”
Speak of the devil, he caught her elbows as she ran into him, coming around the corner too fast. Her hands pressed against the wrinkle-free shirt covering his chest for a few seconds before she quickly pulled back.
Not workplace appropriate, even if he did smell really good that close.
“You okay?” He squeezed one of her arms before letting go.
“Fine. Just moving too fast.” She smoothed down her trousers. Had she never been this close to him before? He seemed taller.
“We really need to get mirrors at these corners, huh? Like they have at the stores? Then we’d see people coming before we turned.” One side of his lips turned up in a grin and his blue eyes sparkled with humor.
She couldn’t help but reciprocate the smile. “Brilliant. Maybe we should make you the office safety monitor. First your idea about bowl cozies and now mirrors.”
“Ha.” His grin diminished a tad. “Sure. The higher ups would probably appreciate less workers comp payouts, right?”
She blinked. Had she said something wrong? “Right. Gotta get back to work.”
He nodded and stepped out of her way, but she caught another whiff of his cologne as she passed. Deep breath.
Was he onto her plan? He didn’t seem to be. Only a few more hours until she could surprise him.
Think Macy can pull it off? Ready to find out? Only two more days of this short story. Come back tomorrow to see what happens next.
“I don’t know, Macy. I’m sort of on a diet right now. Gotta stay thin enough to fit into my wedding dress next month, ya know.” Hilary ran her hands down her perfectly skinny waist and Macy barely kept herself from rolling her eyes.“Even if you don’t eat the cake, you could still come sing.” Macy cocked an eyebrow. “I didn’t get a huge cake anyway. Our birthday budget was pretty much blown for the month already.”
“We have had a lot of birthdays lately.”
“Right?”
“If I remember, I’ll try to swing by. You said three?” Hilary jiggled her mouse to wake her computer back up.
“In the big conference room.” Macy backed out of the payroll office. “And tell the others when they get back from lunch.”
Hilary waved at Macy, but no telling if she actually heard her words or not. Something had already caught her eye on the monitor in front of her.
Macy huffed. Things were not going as well as she’d figured. Maybe people were birthday’d out or something, but barely anyone seemed excited about celebrating David this afternoon. They’d sure be put out if no one showed up to celebrate them on their day, but apparently it was too much trouble to give the same courtesy to their newest co-worker.
At least she didn’t have to worry as much about stretching that little cake. Those things cost much more than she’d expected. Especially for something so plain. She hadn’t even asked them to put words on the top.
She plugged her invitation in with a few more cubicles before her lunch hour ran out. It would have to do. With only so many hours in a day and not knowing about his birthday until this morning, her planning time was limited. Next year, she’d do better.
Assuming he stayed here after this sham of a celebration.
“Oh!”
Speak of the devil, he caught her elbows as she ran into him, coming around the corner too fast. Her hands pressed against the wrinkle-free shirt covering his chest for a few seconds before she quickly pulled back.
Not workplace appropriate, even if he did smell really good that close.
“You okay?” He squeezed one of her arms before letting go.
“Fine. Just moving too fast.” She smoothed down her trousers. Had she never been this close to him before? He seemed taller.
“We really need to get mirrors at these corners, huh? Like they have at the stores? Then we’d see people coming before we turned.” One side of his lips turned up in a grin and his blue eyes sparkled with humor.
She couldn’t help but reciprocate the smile. “Brilliant. Maybe we should make you the office safety monitor. First your idea about bowl cozies and now mirrors.”
“Ha.” His grin diminished a tad. “Sure. The higher ups would probably appreciate less workers comp payouts, right?”
She blinked. Had she said something wrong? “Right. Gotta get back to work.”
He nodded and stepped out of her way, but she caught another whiff of his cologne as she passed. Deep breath.
Was he onto her plan? He didn’t seem to be. Only a few more hours until she could surprise him.
Think Macy can pull it off? Ready to find out? Only two more days of this short story. Come back tomorrow to see what happens next.
August 22, 2023
Short Story--Office Surprise--Day 2
Welcome back to my annual birthday story. Ready to find out what happens next with David and Macy? Read on. Or, if you missed Day 1, it's here. 
David stepped into the small kitchenette and the three women congregated around the microwave practically gasped as they straightened. Strange. Not that David had ever confessed to understanding the female half of the species. Still … he didn’t think he was that startling.
He eased around them to grab his leftovers from the fridge. A few titters of laughter burst from a couple of the girls before they smirked and headed out of the kitchen. That left only Macy.
She occupied the cubicle on the other side of his wall. Often he heard her soft voice chatting on the phone or with other co-workers. But he rarely had time to actually experience a conversation with her for himself. Since he’d started a month before, their schedules hadn’t cooperated for much more than a smile in passing.
Maybe that could change soon. He leaned back against the counter on the other side of the microwave while she waited for her meal to finish heating. Glancing her way, he discovered her watching him, but she quickly turned her attention to the beeping machine.
She hissed as she grabbed the hot container and let it slip a bit, some red sauce splattering over the countertop. “Shoot!”
“I got it.” He fisted a few paper towels and swiped at the small mess. “No big deal.”
“Thanks.” She ducked her head and tucked a strand of long brown hair behind her ear.
“Not a problem. Have you seen those little bowl cozies they make now? My mom has a bunch. You put the dish in them and then it’s like there’s a ready-made potholder when you go to take it out of the microwave.” He motioned with his hand around his own container.
“Oh, um. Yeah. I think I have.” She grabbed her own meal once more, though it had to still be hot. Backed up several steps toward the door. “Well, I better get out of here. So much to do in our short lunch break.”
“Right. I—” But he didn’t get to finish. She’d already spun on her heels and was gone. “Huh.”
Sure his conversation about potholders wasn’t scintillating, but it hadn’t been that bad, had it? Maybe his plan wouldn’t work after all.
No wonder it had been three-hundred sixty-five days. He obviously needed to work on his conversation skills. First, he chased all her friends away simply by showing up, and then he talked about bowl cozies. Good thing he’d already told his mom to tone down her celebration plans.
He rolled his eyes. Only mom would want to celebrate something like the news she’d heard through his cousin Becca. The cousin David planned to never tell anything again.
Sighing, he heated his own meal and took it back to his desk. Strangely enough, Macy wasn’t seated at her own as he passed by. What was going on today? What do you think is going on? Come back tomorrow to find out more!
David stepped into the small kitchenette and the three women congregated around the microwave practically gasped as they straightened. Strange. Not that David had ever confessed to understanding the female half of the species. Still … he didn’t think he was that startling.He eased around them to grab his leftovers from the fridge. A few titters of laughter burst from a couple of the girls before they smirked and headed out of the kitchen. That left only Macy.
She occupied the cubicle on the other side of his wall. Often he heard her soft voice chatting on the phone or with other co-workers. But he rarely had time to actually experience a conversation with her for himself. Since he’d started a month before, their schedules hadn’t cooperated for much more than a smile in passing.
Maybe that could change soon. He leaned back against the counter on the other side of the microwave while she waited for her meal to finish heating. Glancing her way, he discovered her watching him, but she quickly turned her attention to the beeping machine.
She hissed as she grabbed the hot container and let it slip a bit, some red sauce splattering over the countertop. “Shoot!”
“I got it.” He fisted a few paper towels and swiped at the small mess. “No big deal.”
“Thanks.” She ducked her head and tucked a strand of long brown hair behind her ear.
“Not a problem. Have you seen those little bowl cozies they make now? My mom has a bunch. You put the dish in them and then it’s like there’s a ready-made potholder when you go to take it out of the microwave.” He motioned with his hand around his own container.
“Oh, um. Yeah. I think I have.” She grabbed her own meal once more, though it had to still be hot. Backed up several steps toward the door. “Well, I better get out of here. So much to do in our short lunch break.”
“Right. I—” But he didn’t get to finish. She’d already spun on her heels and was gone. “Huh.”
Sure his conversation about potholders wasn’t scintillating, but it hadn’t been that bad, had it? Maybe his plan wouldn’t work after all.
No wonder it had been three-hundred sixty-five days. He obviously needed to work on his conversation skills. First, he chased all her friends away simply by showing up, and then he talked about bowl cozies. Good thing he’d already told his mom to tone down her celebration plans.
He rolled his eyes. Only mom would want to celebrate something like the news she’d heard through his cousin Becca. The cousin David planned to never tell anything again.
Sighing, he heated his own meal and took it back to his desk. Strangely enough, Macy wasn’t seated at her own as he passed by. What was going on today? What do you think is going on? Come back tomorrow to find out more!
August 21, 2023
Short Story--Office Surprise--Day
For the last few years, I've shared a short story here on my blog, one piece a day for the week of my birthday. This is my fifth year to do this, although my birthday isn't technically until next week. It fit my calendar better this week.
All the others are still on my blog under the link "Short Stories." Feel free to go back and read the others. And in the meantime, I have a new one this week. Enjoy!
Here's part one.
“No, Mom.”
Macy tried to tune out the voice filtering over from the next cubicle, but it was hard. David was worked up about something. Not that it took much for him to catch her attention. Between his mellow voice and his thick dark hair, he made it hard to focus on work several times a day.
“That’s very sweet, and you know I love you for it. But no. I don’t need a celebration.”
Celebration? One of Macy’s favorite words. Something told her this spreadsheet would not be finished today.
“Mom, seriously. No.” He paused. “Yes, I know it’s been three-hundred and sixty-five days. But that doesn’t mean we need to celebrate. Seriously.”
A tapping followed, as if he were letting out frustration through his pen. Macy lifted a brow.
“Yes. We can have dinner. But nothing more. I don’t want a big deal made.”
Was it his birthday? What else could he be talking about? A celebration for something that happened once a year.
Macy stifled a squeal. Any excuse to eat cake was a good one in her book.
“Okay, Mom. Okay. I’ll see you for dinner.” David’s chair squeaked. “But promise me—nothing more.”
He must’ve heard the answer he requested because he wrapped his phone call up after that and all was silent once more save the clacking of people typing nearby. Macy’s brain traveled a mile a minute.
The office had already celebrated three birthdays this month. Would their cake fund have any money left? They normally only had one or two celebrations a month. Why were there so many November birthdays?
She shook her head. Getting off track. A few clicks revealed the birthday fund only held a few dollars. That could be a problem.
Would people want to chip in for yet another cake this month? Would it lower next month’s funds? Macy frowned. She was overthinking this. A simple cake didn’t cost that much. She’d just pay for one herself. She had a little cushion and it would be a great way to welcome the newest office-mate to their birthday club.
David had only been there a little over a month. He started right during the middle of the huge Tyler project so he hadn’t had a chance to meet many of them. This was the perfect opportunity.
Macy nodded to herself, finished a few more small tasks, and then set out to secretly hatch a plan with a few others. If there was anything she loved, it was celebrating a birthday.
Come back tomorrow to find out what happens next. Think David will be surprised?
All the others are still on my blog under the link "Short Stories." Feel free to go back and read the others. And in the meantime, I have a new one this week. Enjoy!
Here's part one.
“No, Mom.”Macy tried to tune out the voice filtering over from the next cubicle, but it was hard. David was worked up about something. Not that it took much for him to catch her attention. Between his mellow voice and his thick dark hair, he made it hard to focus on work several times a day.
“That’s very sweet, and you know I love you for it. But no. I don’t need a celebration.”
Celebration? One of Macy’s favorite words. Something told her this spreadsheet would not be finished today.
“Mom, seriously. No.” He paused. “Yes, I know it’s been three-hundred and sixty-five days. But that doesn’t mean we need to celebrate. Seriously.”
A tapping followed, as if he were letting out frustration through his pen. Macy lifted a brow.
“Yes. We can have dinner. But nothing more. I don’t want a big deal made.”
Was it his birthday? What else could he be talking about? A celebration for something that happened once a year.
Macy stifled a squeal. Any excuse to eat cake was a good one in her book.
“Okay, Mom. Okay. I’ll see you for dinner.” David’s chair squeaked. “But promise me—nothing more.”
He must’ve heard the answer he requested because he wrapped his phone call up after that and all was silent once more save the clacking of people typing nearby. Macy’s brain traveled a mile a minute.
The office had already celebrated three birthdays this month. Would their cake fund have any money left? They normally only had one or two celebrations a month. Why were there so many November birthdays?
She shook her head. Getting off track. A few clicks revealed the birthday fund only held a few dollars. That could be a problem.
Would people want to chip in for yet another cake this month? Would it lower next month’s funds? Macy frowned. She was overthinking this. A simple cake didn’t cost that much. She’d just pay for one herself. She had a little cushion and it would be a great way to welcome the newest office-mate to their birthday club.
David had only been there a little over a month. He started right during the middle of the huge Tyler project so he hadn’t had a chance to meet many of them. This was the perfect opportunity.
Macy nodded to herself, finished a few more small tasks, and then set out to secretly hatch a plan with a few others. If there was anything she loved, it was celebrating a birthday.
Come back tomorrow to find out what happens next. Think David will be surprised?
August 14, 2023
Behind the Story: Barre Class
Do you work out?I wish I had more time to. I always feel better about myself when I've had a workout session. And yoga is a great stress-reliever. But my life is super busy right now, and my jobs have my sitting a lot. I'm going to have to make time soon.
I have several friends who work out at a local spot, including one friend who teaches a 5 am barre class. I definitely don't make it to that one. Too early and the timing doesn't work for me to get kids to school, either. But she was a bit of the inspiration behind my newest heroine, Lennox.
Lennox hasn't had an easy life. But she discovered exercise in college. And her life took a path that led her to becoming a third-owner of the Twisted Barre, a local gym, geared mostly for women. They offer yoga, Pilates, kickboxing, aerobics, barre, and more. And Lennox loves it.
She is fierce and strong and it gives her some stability for the first time in her life.
Of course, when I started writing this, and realized she taught all these classes, it hit me that I didn't even know what some of them consisted of. I'd participated in a few, but not all.
So, last fall, when my friend offered to lead our ladies' retreat group in a barre session, I gladly volunteered to give it a try. (Proof below) We did a version that doesn't require a barre or chair to hold onto, but it still stretched our muscles and tested our balance at times. There were quite a few giggles, and we all felt the stretches afterward. But I'd definitely do it again. Because it was fun too.
Exercise not only helps with weight problems, but also raises your endorphines. And makes you feel less guilty when you eat that scoop of ice cream at night. ;)
And since Lennox works out several times a day, she's pretty strong too. On the outside AND inside. Because her past hasn't let her be anything else. It's good in a lot of ways, but can also lead to her walls being a big stronger than they need to be at times too. Good thing Ty is stubborn and determined to find her softer side.
What do you think? Does this sound like a fun job for a heroine to have? Are you ready to read about characters kickboxing and stretching and staying healthy ... sort of?
Window of the HeartLennox Malone may not believe in love, but she’s determined to do the best job she can as her friend Sara Beth’s maid of honor. Problem is, the man in charge of fixing up the chapel doesn’t match her determination. Fighting against preconceived notions, a past that catches up to her, and an attraction she wants nothing to do with, this wedding is turning into more than she can handle.
Ty Dunne might be laid back and easy-going, but he’s determined to make sure the chapel is ready for his cousin’s wedding. Not only is it his duty as best man, but he wants to preserve the family’s history in the building. If only he could live up to his family’s other expectations—or those of Lennox Malone, the fiery redhead he can’t stop thinking about. Before he can go any further with her, though, he has to convince her that love is real and worth the risk.
Lennox has built her walls high and sturdy, but Ty is determined to find a way in—even if it’s a window. Maybe the history of the chapel itself along with the romance of a wedding will help.
August 10, 2023
Behind the Story: Wedding Flowers
Do you ever wonder why my characters are so crafty sometimes? Like in Window of the Heart, when they're making flower arrangements. Why not have someone else do that? Hire a florist?Well, probably because it's the way I did my own wedding flowers. All of them. My own bouquet and all my bridesmaids' and all the corsages and boutonnieres. Even the ones on the tables at the reception.
And I loved it. Even considered wanting to be a florist at one time. But nothing ever panned out for that.
Just so you know, I also arranged flowers for my roommate's wedding. And my sister's.
And recently have helped a few other friends with their flowers too. See the picture here?
There's something so fun about taking the beauty God created and arranging it in a pleasing way. One that is just what the bride wants. And maybe helps her stay closer to her budget.
So, when Sara Beth needed flowers in my book, it made sense to have her do them herself. Or, actually to have Ty do them. Although I didn't realize that about him when I started writing the book. Want to know more?
Window of the Heart is available now!
Window of the HeartLennox Malone may not believe in love, but she’s determined to do the best job she can as her friend Sara Beth’s maid of honor. Problem is, the man in charge of fixing up the chapel doesn’t match her determination. Fighting against preconceived notions, a past that catches up to her, and an attraction she wants nothing to do with, this wedding is turning into more than she can handle.
Ty Dunne might be laid back and easy-going, but he’s determined to make sure the chapel is ready for his cousin’s wedding. Not only is it his duty as best man, but he wants to preserve the family’s history in the building. If only he could live up to his family’s other expectations—or those of Lennox Malone, the fiery redhead he can’t stop thinking about. Before he can go any further with her, though, he has to convince her that love is real and worth the risk.
Lennox has built her walls high and sturdy, but Ty is determined to find a way in—even if it’s a window. Maybe the history of the chapel itself along with the romance of a wedding will help.
August 7, 2023
Author Interview: Christina Rost
Today, I'm thrilled to introduce you to another of my editing "babies." And the author behind this beautiful book, The Decision. Christina Rost is such a fun person to get to know, and I'm already looking forward to her next book because I enjoyed the first so much. I think you're going to enjoy getting to know her today too. Christina, congratulations on your first book release!What made you choose to start and end it in a place like Uganda?
I grew up learning about missionaries in my church and anytime there were stories about missionaries in Africa I was totally enthralled with their story. As I wrote The Decision, I hoped my readers would have their interest piqued about the area and their hearts would be moved to pray for the mission work that goes on not only there but around the globe.
I know your husband used to be in the Air Force. Are there locations you guys lived that might show up in a future novel? Any locations you'd hate to write about?
Yes! We lived in Hampton Roads, Virginia, and England, and they are both included in my upcoming novel Best Seller.
I cannot think of an area I’d hate to write about. Even the places where we were stationed that I didn’t particularly enjoy are a part of who I am, so I’d be open to considering them at some point in a setting.
Sunflowers play a big part in your story. And I adore sunflowers, too, so they often show up in mine. What is it about sunflowers that made you include them?
I love sunflowers also! You can’t look at a sunflower and not feel cheery! They are such happy flowers.
Of course, as writers we need to make sense as to why we choose symbols, and with Blake and Ava I chose sunflowers for multiple reasons:They symbolize adoration and loyalty. I thought this was the perfect flower for Blake to give Ava. With his character I tried to convey all that is loyal and steadfast in a hero.Sunflowers follow the sun! Like Ava who was in the middle of her grief at the beginning of the story, her character learned to look up, trust God and begin to follow His leading when it came to opening her heart to love again.Sunflower oil is important in Uganda’s economy, so it tied together nicely with my setting and a forever reminder of where Blake and Ava started their journey!
I know your hero speaks multiple languages in the book. Do you speak more than one language?
Sadly, I do not. I took French in high school but never became proficient. When I traveled to France, I was able to communicate with numbers, colors, and simple food requests. However, to my ears, different languages sound like a symphony of beautiful music. I love how diverse God has made the world, even with our language.
What's next on your agenda? Can you give us any peeks into future stories?
A romantic mystery series! This story has been waiting to jump out of my laptop for a while! Book one is titled Best Seller and will involve a love triangle, a hunt for hidden treasure, and a writer searching for love and purpose! Currently I have planned three total books for this series.
I know you love Jane Austen (me, too!). What is it about her stories that draws you?
Two things: Jane’s stories are timeless! I aspire to write stories that can be read generation after generation just like Austen’s. Also, her female characters were so well written, strong yet feminine, Jane really is a writer to learn from. A quick note, Best Seller’s female lead loves Austen, although she attempts to deny she reads romance!
As a mom of three, how hard is it for you to find time to write?
Over time, as children grow and move on to their own life journey, I have more time. My boys have grown, and moved out, so at this stage in my life, I have one middle schooler at home. I share my ups and downs of my journey with her, and I hope I’m giving her a glimpse into what it’s like to strive for a dream.
There was a time when all three kiddos were at home, and I had to juggle days where I’d stay up very late to have the quiet time to type a few scenes. That worked well it the summer when the kids and I could sleep in.
Being a mom at home with the kids, I’ve gotten very adept at writing at coffee shops, in car lines, parking lots, sports practice and road trips.
I think if I could pass on any advice to fellow mommy-writers it would be this:
Always have a notebook in your purse or diaper bag for ideas and scenes.
Don’t be afraid to talk text into notes on your phone. Ignore the grammar and just email it to yourself. You can edit it later.
Bring your kids into your writing life. Hash out a scene with them. If you’re researching say, sunflowers, make it a lesson or plant a sunflower. One time Kate and I made a few African recipes together so I could immerse myself into the setting for The Decision. It was such a fun experience!
What's the most important thing you've learned as you've gone through this path to being published for the first time?
You can’t do this writer’s life alone. Find writer friends that can encourage you and that you can encourage along this journey! My life has been so blessed by all the like-minded writers I’ve met along this path. We’re made for community and that includes writers!
This is a great point! I'm so blessed to have other authors who support me too.
Last, but not least. Can you please leave us with one fact about yourself that very few people already know?
I’ve never gotten a speeding ticket!
Okay, I'm completely impressed! How about you? I've very much enjoyed getting to know Christina more today, and I hope you'll go check out her gorgeous book. Read on for more information.
The DecisionRunning from her grief, interior designer Ava Stewart makes a hasty decision to join a missionary group heading to Uganda. She’s in the country only a few days before tragedy strikes and a mistaken identity leaves her with an uncertain outcome.
Special Operator Blake Martin is assigned to a humanitarian mission when he’s captured by a group of armed men. Wounded and miles away from his team, Blake’s brought to Ava, and she’s ordered to care for him.
Thrown together in chaos, with the threat of danger pressing in from all sides, Ava and Blake are forced to rely on each other–and God–to escape. An undeniable bond is formed during their flight to safety but opening their hearts to love carries its own risk. A risk they aren’t sure they’re willing to take.
Now, miles apart and living separate lives, they need to decide if the connection they shared in the untamed, wilds of Uganda is strong enough to confront the future. A future where Ava’s fragile heart and Blake’s hazardous job collide, and only God knows the outcome. Author Christina Rost is a mother to three amazing children and is married to her high school sweetheart. While she currently resides in Oklahoma City, she’s lived all over the US, a few years in the UK, and loves to travel. When she isn’t spending time with her family or writing you’ll find her chatting over coffee and perusing antique stores for tattered books.
Website: www.christinarostauthor.com
August 3, 2023
Behind the Story: Sara Beth
What would a story be without secondary characters? Not as much fun, that's for sure. Especially when those secondary characters are like Sara Beth. She's Lennox's best friend. Has been since ninth grade. And now she's getting married to her sweetheart Brian (Ty's cousin). Aren't they cute? They took that picture for their "Save the date" cards. ;)
Best friends don't come much better than Sara Beth, except right now, she's got her mind on one thing and one thing only--being married in a few months. And she's dragging Lennox along into the fray as maid of honor.
Lennox doesn't mind much. Except that Sara Beth is also like a lot of other brides. She's in love and thinks everyone else should be too--including Lennox.
So, Sara Beth and Brian delight in pushing Lennox and Ty together as much as possible. Not a difficult task when they're busy helping with wedding plans.
Sara Beth is perky, Southern, sassy, and in love. Very much not like Lennox in a lot of ways. But that only seems to make their friendship tighter.
Do you have a great best friend who's been in your life forever? Were you like Sara Beth when you were gearing up for your wedding and wanted everyone else to be in love too?
Window of the HeartLennox Malone may not believe in love, but she’s determined to do the best job she can as her friend Sara Beth’s maid of honor. Problem is, the man in charge of fixing up the chapel doesn’t match her determination. Fighting against preconceived notions, a past that catches up to her, and an attraction she wants nothing to do with, this wedding is turning into more than she can handle.
Ty Dunne might be laid back and easy-going, but he’s determined to make sure the chapel is ready for his cousin’s wedding. Not only is it his duty as best man, but he wants to preserve the family’s history in the building. If only he could live up to his family’s other expectations—or those of Lennox Malone, the fiery redhead he can’t stop thinking about. Before he can go any further with her, though, he has to convince her that love is real and worth the risk.
Lennox has built her walls high and sturdy, but Ty is determined to find a way in—even if it’s a window. Maybe the history of the chapel itself along with the romance of a wedding will help.
July 31, 2023
An Even Dozen
Tomorrow is the official release day for Window of the Heart. It seems like it's taken forever to get here and only a few moments at the same time. When Heather Greer, Regina Merrick, Erin Howard, and I met back in 2019, we had no idea four years later we'd write a series together. But mine is the third book in the series and we're set to have all four out by the end of the year. Crazy!This little book started as a writing prompt during KenTen Writers' Retreat. All four of us were sitting at the same table and decided it would be fun to set a story in the chapel there at the park. And because Erin loves fantasy, she included someone falling through the window into a future.
Well, here we are in the real future. And in December, her character will fall through the window of our chapel into a dystopian future, complete with castle and prince. ;)
This is definitely not your typical series, but it's been a lot of fun to write. Though there have been lessons learned. For instance, I will not write my book before the others if it isn't supposed to come before the others' ever again. Whew! Every now and then my muse gets me in trouble, y'all.
But I'm proud of this book. It's a little edgy, a little fun, and a lot of romance wrapped up in a story of God's grace and forgiveness. And it's my twelfth book!
How is that even possible? TWELVE!
An even dozen.
This journey has been a roller coaster, but it's been a good one. And I look forward to bringing even more in the years to come.
Have you read any of my books? All of them? Which is your favorite? Are you excited to read number twelve?
July 27, 2023
Behind the Story: The Chapel
Once upon a time, there was a chapel. Yeah, yeah. You get the idea.
Anyway, this chapel is in Montgomery Bell State Park, where Heather Greer, Regina Merrick, Erin Howard, and I met during a writers' retreat. During said retreat, we were prompted to come up with a story idea using a location in the park. We all automatically thought of the chapel. This one is actually a replica of the original, but it's so pretty. There are stained glass windows lining each side and three at the front.
This chapel doesn't have classroom wings or bathrooms or anything like that. But still, you step inside and it fills you with this sense of peace and quiet, something hard to find in the world around us.
From our story idea at retreat came the idea for this whole series. Including the family chapel the series revolves around. Of course, we couldn't make our chapel exactly like the original. It had to fit our stories and characters.
Hence, the birth of Park Haven Chapel in little Park Haven, TN (a town we made up). Our chapel is built by Uncle Brendan in Window of Opportunity. He's brought the big stained glass window with the Celtic cross all the way from Ireland.
Through the years, the chapel has to go through repairs and additions, but underneath everything, it holds their family, their traditions, and their faith within its walls. It's where they go to find a quiet moment with God. Or to soak in the calm as the sunlight gleams through the stained-glass window.
Do you have a place like that in your life? Could you imagine having a wedding there? Well, get ready. Because that's what's going to happen in my book ... SOON!
Just a few more days until release! I can't hardly believe it. The book is on pre-order now, and you can save a dollar by ordering your kindle book before release day.
Lennox Malone may not believe in love, but she’s determined to do the best job she can as her friend Sara Beth’s maid of honor. Problem is, the man in charge of fixing up the chapel doesn’t match her determination. Fighting against preconceived notions, a past that catches up to her, and an attraction she wants nothing to do with, this wedding is turning into more than she can handle.
Ty Dunne might be laid back and easy-going, but he’s determined to make sure the chapel is ready for his cousin’s wedding. Not only is it his duty as best man, but he wants to preserve the family’s history in the building. If only he could live up to his family’s other expectations—or those of Lennox Malone, the fiery redhead he can’t stop thinking about. Before he can go any further with her, though, he has to convince her that love is real and worth the risk.
Lennox has built her walls high and sturdy, but Ty is determined to find a way in—even if it’s a window. Maybe the history of the chapel itself along with the romance of a wedding will help.
Anyway, this chapel is in Montgomery Bell State Park, where Heather Greer, Regina Merrick, Erin Howard, and I met during a writers' retreat. During said retreat, we were prompted to come up with a story idea using a location in the park. We all automatically thought of the chapel. This one is actually a replica of the original, but it's so pretty. There are stained glass windows lining each side and three at the front.
This chapel doesn't have classroom wings or bathrooms or anything like that. But still, you step inside and it fills you with this sense of peace and quiet, something hard to find in the world around us.
From our story idea at retreat came the idea for this whole series. Including the family chapel the series revolves around. Of course, we couldn't make our chapel exactly like the original. It had to fit our stories and characters.
Hence, the birth of Park Haven Chapel in little Park Haven, TN (a town we made up). Our chapel is built by Uncle Brendan in Window of Opportunity. He's brought the big stained glass window with the Celtic cross all the way from Ireland.Through the years, the chapel has to go through repairs and additions, but underneath everything, it holds their family, their traditions, and their faith within its walls. It's where they go to find a quiet moment with God. Or to soak in the calm as the sunlight gleams through the stained-glass window.
Do you have a place like that in your life? Could you imagine having a wedding there? Well, get ready. Because that's what's going to happen in my book ... SOON!
Just a few more days until release! I can't hardly believe it. The book is on pre-order now, and you can save a dollar by ordering your kindle book before release day.
Lennox Malone may not believe in love, but she’s determined to do the best job she can as her friend Sara Beth’s maid of honor. Problem is, the man in charge of fixing up the chapel doesn’t match her determination. Fighting against preconceived notions, a past that catches up to her, and an attraction she wants nothing to do with, this wedding is turning into more than she can handle.Ty Dunne might be laid back and easy-going, but he’s determined to make sure the chapel is ready for his cousin’s wedding. Not only is it his duty as best man, but he wants to preserve the family’s history in the building. If only he could live up to his family’s other expectations—or those of Lennox Malone, the fiery redhead he can’t stop thinking about. Before he can go any further with her, though, he has to convince her that love is real and worth the risk.
Lennox has built her walls high and sturdy, but Ty is determined to find a way in—even if it’s a window. Maybe the history of the chapel itself along with the romance of a wedding will help.
