Amy R. Anguish's Blog, page 4
June 9, 2025
Book Spotlight: Hope Takes the Reins
Does birth order truly shape the way people act? My friend Jenny Carlisle believes so. She even takes i so far as to instill those traits into her characters who are middle children. See if this sounds right. 
“Could you suspend the middle child thing for just a minute?” Though my daughter-in-law’s words were spoken in mild frustration, I couldn’t hold back a smile. So much about her middle son, my grandson, reminds me of his dad, my own middle child. A flair for drama, his own unique sense of humor, and the ability to use a sweet smile and sparkling blue eyes to diffuse any potential anger set them both apart.
Middle children share common traits, gained while learning to communicate with older and younger siblings. They often go to great lengths to stand out from the crowd, charting their own course, while taking the role of peacemaker in their own family and beyond.
There are famous middle children who bear this out. Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King, Jr. and John F. Kennedy were all middle children. All were known for standing out from the crowd, engaging with all ages, desiring to be peacemakers.
My first novel, Hope Takes the Reins, published by Scrivenings Press, features main characters who are in the midst of their active families. O.D. Billings is trying to emerge from the shadow of his heroic older brother, while protecting his reckless younger one. Hope Caldwell is the wind beneath her older sister Faith’s wings, and struggles to be heard over the flamboyant bravado of their brother.
Even the roles they play in the rodeo follow the pattern. O.D. is a tie-down calf roper, his own choice over the more popular bull or bronco riding. He and his equine partner excel and he has developed an engaging celebration routine. The rodeo fans, and even a local television crew are putty in his leather gloved hands. Hope works behind the scenes, making sure her announcer dad, barrel racing sister and rodeo clown brother have everything they need for their performances. Unlike most other middle children, she doesn’t seek out the spotlight, but her role of ‘family fixer” is always on full display.
When changes in family dynamics push both O.D. and Hope to their limits, they learn that trusting God and His plan for their lives is absolutely vital. I have come to know and love these two characters, and I hope you feel the same way when you read their book, Hope Takes the Reins. The other books in my Crossroads series, along with my part of the Christmas Novella A Gift for All Time give the older and younger siblings a chance to tell their own stories. Faith Moves Mountains highlights O.D.’s brother John K. and Hope’s sister Faith. Love Never Fails features the youngest Billings, Cody, and Hope and Faith’s cousin Kayla. Readers tell me that they can relate to these stories, and I hope they illustrate how faith can conquer any obstacle, even birth order!
Hope Takes the Reins
O.D. Billings has lived in the shadow of his brothers all his life. Even his name brings him down, so he has used only initials for years. But now, his older “war-hero” brother has returned home rebelling against his expected role in the family business, and the younger brother is intent on risking his life on the back of a bucking bull. O.D. talks a good game after each rodeo tie-down competition, but can he step up to help anyone without really knowing where he fits in?
Hope Caldwell’s world is still reeling after her mom’s recent death from cancer. She thrives on keeping the family’s rodeo on an even keel. Keeping everything normal seems more and more impossible, when she overhears her uncle’s plan to sell out. How can she continue without the only way of life she has known for all of her nineteen years? Can she rely on the help of a big-talking cowboy? Or does he have too many problems of his own?
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 with over 35 years of service. A long-time columnist for Ouachita Life magazine, two collections of her inspirational articles have been self-published. She is past president of American Christian Fiction Writers – Arkansas Chapter. Her first fiction project, “When Hope Takes the Reins” released from Scrivenings Press in March of 2022, followed by Faith Moves Mountains and Love Never Fails in ’23 and ’24. Her Christmas novella, Rejoicing with Joy appears in the collection A Gift for All Time. 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. Her favorite volunteer activity is as a Journey Partner with Women Equipped, a Christian Women’s Job Corp.
“Could you suspend the middle child thing for just a minute?” Though my daughter-in-law’s words were spoken in mild frustration, I couldn’t hold back a smile. So much about her middle son, my grandson, reminds me of his dad, my own middle child. A flair for drama, his own unique sense of humor, and the ability to use a sweet smile and sparkling blue eyes to diffuse any potential anger set them both apart.Middle children share common traits, gained while learning to communicate with older and younger siblings. They often go to great lengths to stand out from the crowd, charting their own course, while taking the role of peacemaker in their own family and beyond.
There are famous middle children who bear this out. Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King, Jr. and John F. Kennedy were all middle children. All were known for standing out from the crowd, engaging with all ages, desiring to be peacemakers.
My first novel, Hope Takes the Reins, published by Scrivenings Press, features main characters who are in the midst of their active families. O.D. Billings is trying to emerge from the shadow of his heroic older brother, while protecting his reckless younger one. Hope Caldwell is the wind beneath her older sister Faith’s wings, and struggles to be heard over the flamboyant bravado of their brother.
Even the roles they play in the rodeo follow the pattern. O.D. is a tie-down calf roper, his own choice over the more popular bull or bronco riding. He and his equine partner excel and he has developed an engaging celebration routine. The rodeo fans, and even a local television crew are putty in his leather gloved hands. Hope works behind the scenes, making sure her announcer dad, barrel racing sister and rodeo clown brother have everything they need for their performances. Unlike most other middle children, she doesn’t seek out the spotlight, but her role of ‘family fixer” is always on full display.
When changes in family dynamics push both O.D. and Hope to their limits, they learn that trusting God and His plan for their lives is absolutely vital. I have come to know and love these two characters, and I hope you feel the same way when you read their book, Hope Takes the Reins. The other books in my Crossroads series, along with my part of the Christmas Novella A Gift for All Time give the older and younger siblings a chance to tell their own stories. Faith Moves Mountains highlights O.D.’s brother John K. and Hope’s sister Faith. Love Never Fails features the youngest Billings, Cody, and Hope and Faith’s cousin Kayla. Readers tell me that they can relate to these stories, and I hope they illustrate how faith can conquer any obstacle, even birth order!
Hope Takes the ReinsO.D. Billings has lived in the shadow of his brothers all his life. Even his name brings him down, so he has used only initials for years. But now, his older “war-hero” brother has returned home rebelling against his expected role in the family business, and the younger brother is intent on risking his life on the back of a bucking bull. O.D. talks a good game after each rodeo tie-down competition, but can he step up to help anyone without really knowing where he fits in?
Hope Caldwell’s world is still reeling after her mom’s recent death from cancer. She thrives on keeping the family’s rodeo on an even keel. Keeping everything normal seems more and more impossible, when she overhears her uncle’s plan to sell out. How can she continue without the only way of life she has known for all of her nineteen years? Can she rely on the help of a big-talking cowboy? Or does he have too many problems of his own?
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 with over 35 years of service. A long-time columnist for Ouachita Life magazine, two collections of her inspirational articles have been self-published. She is past president of American Christian Fiction Writers – Arkansas Chapter. Her first fiction project, “When Hope Takes the Reins” released from Scrivenings Press in March of 2022, followed by Faith Moves Mountains and Love Never Fails in ’23 and ’24. Her Christmas novella, Rejoicing with Joy appears in the collection A Gift for All Time. 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. Her favorite volunteer activity is as a Journey Partner with Women Equipped, a Christian Women’s Job Corp.
June 5, 2025
Slow Words
We're getting so close to the release of Rendersella. Earlier this week, I was finishing up my final read-through. After reading this story so many times, it's hard to catch mistakes because I'm so familiar with what the story says in my head. That can be a problem when you're trying to make a novel as perfect as you can.That's why I bring in some help. Not a person. I've already had help from other people. Nope. This is when I let my computer read to me. Does it sound like a normal voice? Not the free program I use. In some ways, that helps too. Because the strange pronunciations and pauses can bring your attention to things you might not notice otherwise.
But there's something else too.
I read fast. We're talking several books a week. But I can't read fast when I read this way. The computer has a set speed and it's not my normal one. I'm forced to slow down and really pay attention.
Does it mean I catch everything?
Probably not. But I definitely catch more.
Are there other areas in my life where I probably need to slow down and pay more attention? Most definitely. Because even outside of final edits, there's always somewhere I need to watch for mistakes.
What about you? Do you have something that can help you slow down and catch things? Did you know authors often read their books out loud (or have them read out loud, in my case)?
June 2, 2025
Author Interview: Kimberly Banet
Do you love stories with a bit of heartache and a whole lot of triumph and love? Well, Kimberly Banet has what you're looking for. Check out this fun interview to find out where she found her inspiration, her location, and even HOW she wrote her first book. You might be surprised!
Kim, congratulations on your newest book. Can you tell me what inspired you to write about foster families?
Thank you, Amy! I had a coworker who always fostered teens, and I found that fascinating. She portrayed fostering teens as heartbreaking at times, but also very rewarding at times. Although her stories were nothing like my main character Sam’s experiences, bits and pieces of the heartache and the triumphs became part of Sam and the Grayson family’s story. You're from Indiana, but set your books in Tennessee. What made you choose that location?
My daughter and son-in-law lived in Franklin, Tennessee for about five years and my husband and I absolutely fell in love with the town. It’s festivals, downtown, and history drew us in. We spent a lot of time there. When thinking about a small-town setting for my series, it was never a question in my mind that it had to be Franklin.
Which one of your characters is most like you? In what ways?
I would have to say Abbie. She has a great marriage to her husband John, just like my marriage to my husband Jeff was. And her friendship with her best friend Wendy is modeled after my friendship with my lifelong best friend.
You didn't start writing until 2020. What sparked your interest in writing?
In March of 2020, I lost my job at a law firm due to the courts shutting down because of the pandemic. Stuck at home with nothing to do for the first time ever, I decided to try something I’d always wanted to do but was always afraid to try – writing. I started writing Just Another Home and entered it in many contests and used judge’s feedback to make my writing stronger and better. Eventually I won a couple of contests along the way, then in 2023 I was offered a publishing contract from Scrivenings Press.
What is one of the hardest things you've found in writing about foster care?
I wanted to make sure I had my facts straight. Even though I write fiction, I wanted to make sure the story was believable. I put a lot of time and effort into my research, especially in how the state of Tennessee’s foster care system operates.
Are there any pieces of your own life you've woven into your stories? Which ones?
In Just Another Home, the Dickens Festival scene was straight from real life. It was one of the few times we had both our adult kids together in Franklin, and we all went to the Dickens Festival. It was very cold just like the scene in the book, and it mirrors our experience there, from the sights and sounds right down to the coffee shop and pizza for lunch.
What's next? Can you give us a sneak peek into what you're working on now?
I’m currently working on the third and final book of the Family Forever series. I’m excited to wrap up the story of Sam and the Grayson family. I hope to have it in readers’ hands next summer.
Last but not least, can you tell us one fact about yourself that very few people already know about you?
When I started writing Just Another Home in 2020, I didn’t have a home computer, so I wrote the first 50,000 words on my phone. I don’t recommend doing it that way!
Wow!!! Well, I'm even more impressed than I was before. Readers, keep scrolling to find out more about Kim's books and how to follow her on social. Sounds like she's got some great ones!
Just Another DreamSam Grayson has achieved what he once thought impossible. Overcoming a troubled childhood in foster care, he has graduated college and embarked on a dream career that honors his faith. Grateful for his adoptive parents, John and Abbie, who took him in at sixteen, Sam enjoys a picture-perfect life in Franklin, Tennessee, where John thrives as a college basketball coach and Abbie runs a local business.
But when Andy Quinn, Sam’s estranged biological father, reaches out from federal prison, turmoil ensues. A misunderstanding fueled by deception escalates, shattering Sam’s relationship with his girlfriend and fracturing his family. As everything he values hangs in the balance, Sam must confront painful truths and lean on his faith.
Is it too late for Sam to rebuild his life, restore his dreams, and heal the bonds of the Grayson family?
Kimberly Banet holds a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University. She started writing in 2020, and in 2023 Just Another Home was a Genesis Finalist and went on to become her first published novel in 2024. Kimberly and her late husband Jeff were married nearly thirty-eight years and raised two grown children, Nicole and Brandon. She lives in beautiful Starlight, Indiana, with her two dogs, Daisy and Winnie.
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May 22, 2025
What's on Your Laptop?
My husband and I have been in discussions lately about how much longer we can make our computers last. Mine is two or three years old now. His is a bit older, I think. And they're ... well-loved.And as I got to thinking about possibly having to break in a new laptop, I thought, "aww. That means I won't have my stickers anymore."
I had never been one to put stickers all over things. I don't have one of those fancy cups you're supposed to decorate. No bumper stickers adorn my car. But for some reason, when this all white laptop arrived, it called out to me for more. So, I asked for a few stickers for a birthday and the trend grew from there.
Obviously, all of the stickers on my laptop aren't extra special. Some are just ones I liked. Like the Anne of Green Gables. And the cat drinking tea and reading a book. Of course.
But others, have more meaning to me. I thought I'd share a few with you today.
The watercolor chapel sticker is special because it's the chapel Heather Greer, Erin Howard, Regina Merrick, and I based our chapel on in our Stained-Glass Legacy series.This particular sticker is a painting done by a friend who attend KenTen Writers Retreat with us way back when it was still happening, and the chapel can be found in Montgomery Bell State Park in TN. That's where we all met and where our story ideas originated.
Having a sticker of that special place reminds me of good times and the girls I shared them with.
Tea is a daily thing for me. I start every morning with a giant mug full of the hot beverage. I blame some friends I had in college. It helps me wake up and tastes good too.Of course, I also drink it at other times too. Because, tea.
When my brother gifted this sticker to me, it couldn't have been more perfect. Some authors run on coffee. I'm more of a tea girl.
CHARIS is our local writing group here in Smyrna. We've become such good friends over the last few years and it feels very much like a family to me.God has blessed me richly with these like-minded people who lift me up and encourage me each month (and sometime even each week).
If you don't have a group like that in your life, I highly recommend it.
And now a more lighthearted one.My husband and I met at Freed-Hardeman University. It was a great experience and I still love visiting the campus.
A year or so ago, one of my friends was a graphic design student there and designed this sticker for one of her classes. Of course I bought one. Our family not only loves Freed, but we love Scooby Doo too.
How could I resist?
Are you the kind of person who decorates your laptop? What's something special on the back of yours? I'd love to see pictures!
May 19, 2025
Book Spotlight: All Things Possible
Have you ever fallen off a horse? Did you have the nerve to get back on? My friend, Luann Edwards, takes her own experience and weaves it into one of her newest stories. See what you think. 
If you’ve ridden a horse, what is your most vivid memory? Is it the gentle breeze across your face, a lovely view along a meandering stream, or the earthy scent of the leather saddle? For me? I remember the sickening thud when I landed, the long, lonely limp home, and the bitter taste of humiliation when I admitted my fall to my family. That adventure took place forty-five years ago, but the memory remains etched in my brain.
On their farm, my husband’s parents had two horses, Copper and Champ. I’d ridden Copper often and felt confident to ride him to the mailbox, a quarter mile away, but he wasn’t saddled up. Champ, the horse I had never ridden and the more spirited of the two, stood ready. Riding Champ couldn’t be any harder than riding Copper. Right? Wasn’t I now an experienced rider?
I needed that fall. The impact shook my cocky pride.
In my latest book, All Things Possible, my heroine, Maggie, faces a similar experience to mine, and she, too, needs to learn a lesson about pride, and more.
Maggie, the town’s only bed-and-breakfast owner, spends her time writing a weekly gossip blog and caring for her dainty little dog, Snowbunny. Following her father’s death and her mother’s subsequent move in, Maggie offers to do anything to comfort her grieving mom, and Mama wants a calf. But the only farmer Maggie hasn’t offended with her blog posts is her ex-boyfriend from twenty years prior, who recently returned to town.
Wade isn’t thrilled when Maggie arrives at his house, needing a favor. He owes her nothing. After all, she rejected him, leaving him heartbroken and alone.
Maggie wants to buy a calf and keep it on Wade’s farm, but Wade’s dad, who still owns the property, has other ideas. His dad wants to retire, and Wade needs help with chores. Couldn’t Maggie do farm work to pay for the calf and its care? What could go wrong?
Maggie, also known by some as the “make-up queen,” finds the tasks of grooming horses and mucking stalls far beneath her and outside her comfort zone. Follow Maggie’s story as she works diligently to please her mother and Wade, while deepening her relationship with God.
All Things Possible is the third book in my “Love in Pleasant Springs series.” Although the town is fictional, the series takes place in Southeast Tennessee, an hour outside of Chattanooga, in an area known as the South Cumberland Plateau. Forests, hills, streams, and waterfalls make this a beautiful area year-round with plenty of hiking trails. A few of which my husband and I have enjoyed.
One trail, Foster Falls, shows up in Our Faithful Love, my second book in the series. I describe the view as breathtaking, but when we were there at the end of the summer, only a trickle of water dripped from the boulders above. I’ve read they’re glorious now after our spring rains. Time for a road trip!
Have you ever had a memorable experience with a horse? Or perhaps a time when you pushed past your comfort zone to accomplish something you never thought possible?
All Things Possible
is a story of faith, forgiveness, and the redemptive power of God.
Town gossip and bed-and-breakfast owner, Maggie Stone, will do anything for her mom. Maggie’s determination to ease her mom’s grief compels her to approach her first love, rancher Wade Ruby, to buy a calf. But dealing with Wade might force her to confront the painful truth of her past. A secret she hasn’t shared with anyone for twenty years.
Wade returned to Pleasant Springs to run his father’s cattle operation and turn it into a thriving business. He expects to cross paths with Maggie at some point, but he never imagines she will seek his help. Assisting her will mean spending time with the woman who not only rejected his marriage proposal but also deceived him. Fulfilling her request will only result in further heartache.
If Maggie finds the courage to confess her dishonesty to Wade, will he forgive her for keeping the truth from him and allow God to rekindle their love?
LuAnn writes heartwarming Christian contemporary romance filled with faith, hope, and a touch of humor. A 2021 Selah Award finalist for Let Him Go, she has lived her own love story and happily ever after since marrying her sweetheart in 1975. She’s Mom to three children and Nana to three grandchildren who keep her heart full. Besides the Lord and her family, she loves hiking, traveling, pizza, and anything chocolate. When she’s not weaving tales of faith and romance, you may find her gazing lovingly at her husband, in the kitchen baking bread, or snapping photos of birds at their backyard feeders.
LuAnn’s website: www.luannkedwards.com.
Bookbub: LuAnn K. Edwards Books - BookBub
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/luannkedwards
If you’ve ridden a horse, what is your most vivid memory? Is it the gentle breeze across your face, a lovely view along a meandering stream, or the earthy scent of the leather saddle? For me? I remember the sickening thud when I landed, the long, lonely limp home, and the bitter taste of humiliation when I admitted my fall to my family. That adventure took place forty-five years ago, but the memory remains etched in my brain.On their farm, my husband’s parents had two horses, Copper and Champ. I’d ridden Copper often and felt confident to ride him to the mailbox, a quarter mile away, but he wasn’t saddled up. Champ, the horse I had never ridden and the more spirited of the two, stood ready. Riding Champ couldn’t be any harder than riding Copper. Right? Wasn’t I now an experienced rider?
I needed that fall. The impact shook my cocky pride.
In my latest book, All Things Possible, my heroine, Maggie, faces a similar experience to mine, and she, too, needs to learn a lesson about pride, and more.
Maggie, the town’s only bed-and-breakfast owner, spends her time writing a weekly gossip blog and caring for her dainty little dog, Snowbunny. Following her father’s death and her mother’s subsequent move in, Maggie offers to do anything to comfort her grieving mom, and Mama wants a calf. But the only farmer Maggie hasn’t offended with her blog posts is her ex-boyfriend from twenty years prior, who recently returned to town.
Wade isn’t thrilled when Maggie arrives at his house, needing a favor. He owes her nothing. After all, she rejected him, leaving him heartbroken and alone.
Maggie wants to buy a calf and keep it on Wade’s farm, but Wade’s dad, who still owns the property, has other ideas. His dad wants to retire, and Wade needs help with chores. Couldn’t Maggie do farm work to pay for the calf and its care? What could go wrong?
Maggie, also known by some as the “make-up queen,” finds the tasks of grooming horses and mucking stalls far beneath her and outside her comfort zone. Follow Maggie’s story as she works diligently to please her mother and Wade, while deepening her relationship with God.
All Things Possible is the third book in my “Love in Pleasant Springs series.” Although the town is fictional, the series takes place in Southeast Tennessee, an hour outside of Chattanooga, in an area known as the South Cumberland Plateau. Forests, hills, streams, and waterfalls make this a beautiful area year-round with plenty of hiking trails. A few of which my husband and I have enjoyed.
One trail, Foster Falls, shows up in Our Faithful Love, my second book in the series. I describe the view as breathtaking, but when we were there at the end of the summer, only a trickle of water dripped from the boulders above. I’ve read they’re glorious now after our spring rains. Time for a road trip!
Have you ever had a memorable experience with a horse? Or perhaps a time when you pushed past your comfort zone to accomplish something you never thought possible?
All Things Possible
is a story of faith, forgiveness, and the redemptive power of God.Town gossip and bed-and-breakfast owner, Maggie Stone, will do anything for her mom. Maggie’s determination to ease her mom’s grief compels her to approach her first love, rancher Wade Ruby, to buy a calf. But dealing with Wade might force her to confront the painful truth of her past. A secret she hasn’t shared with anyone for twenty years.
Wade returned to Pleasant Springs to run his father’s cattle operation and turn it into a thriving business. He expects to cross paths with Maggie at some point, but he never imagines she will seek his help. Assisting her will mean spending time with the woman who not only rejected his marriage proposal but also deceived him. Fulfilling her request will only result in further heartache.
If Maggie finds the courage to confess her dishonesty to Wade, will he forgive her for keeping the truth from him and allow God to rekindle their love?
LuAnn writes heartwarming Christian contemporary romance filled with faith, hope, and a touch of humor. A 2021 Selah Award finalist for Let Him Go, she has lived her own love story and happily ever after since marrying her sweetheart in 1975. She’s Mom to three children and Nana to three grandchildren who keep her heart full. Besides the Lord and her family, she loves hiking, traveling, pizza, and anything chocolate. When she’s not weaving tales of faith and romance, you may find her gazing lovingly at her husband, in the kitchen baking bread, or snapping photos of birds at their backyard feeders.LuAnn’s website: www.luannkedwards.com.
Bookbub: LuAnn K. Edwards Books - BookBub
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/luannkedwards
May 12, 2025
Book Spotlight: Show Me Skulduggery
Do you love when an author includes pieces of their own hometown in their stories? How about horses? Do you love a good story with stables? Well, my dear friend Ellen Withers has just the tale for you! And check out the fun title: Show Me Skulduggery. I want to read it just because of that title! See what you think after learning about her inspiration. 
While growing up in Mexico, Missouri, at the end of my elementary school day, I used to walk from my school to my grandmother’s house. Because my grandmother lived one block from the school, her place was much closer than my house. Spending time with my sweet and wonderful grandmother was one of the greatest blessings in my lifetime.
There was another blessing I experienced when making that journey to Grandma’s house. My path took me beside the big stables, show rings, split-rail fences, and lush green lawns of Simmons Stables. Mr. Simmons trained many of the finest Saddlebred horses in the world. He did this for over 60 years, right in my hometown.
The horses that trotted around the ring, and switched gaits as if by magic, were amazing to experience. They were majestic creatures. None of them could be mistaken for average horse flesh. They were spectacular beasts sporting shiny hair coats, with manes and tails flowing in the wind.
The main stable was approximately eighty years old when I was walking past as a child and was still in pristine condition. The stable was a magnificent structure, 254 feet long, painted white, with a huge stained-glass half-moon window decorating the entrance. Sadly, time and Mother Nature caused the aging structure to become decrepit and dangerous.
Coincidently, my high school classmate Bobette Wilson, was one of many people in town who worked for years to return the stables to its historical greatness. The structure is now the International Saddlebred Hall of Fame and used as an events center and wedding venue. It is the oldest building in the United States continuously devoted to boarding and training champion American Saddlebred horses. It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Although I moved away from my hometown years ago, I incorporate Mexico, Missouri’s beautiful and historically interesting structures into my mystery series. The foundation of the Show Me Mysteries series was based upon my desire to embrace the interesting things that make my town special and to share its charm and history as a writer.
Each book in the series focuses on one of these hometown structures. My newest book, Show Me Skulduggery , features Simmons Stables and the rich, diverse history of Saddlebred horse trainers in Mexico, Missouri. My childhood visions of those beautiful horses have now come to life on the pages of a book.
Every book in my series includes two mysteries woven in a dual timeline. One mystery occurs in contemporary times and one in a book highlights an existing historical structure in my hometown. Characters from the contemporary storyline move forward with each new book. The historical characters remain within their historical timeline, but some are the antecedents of contemporary characters. In addition, romantic threads run through both the contemporary and historical storylines.
My goal is to use fictional characters and fictional situations to breathe life into local history associated with the featured structure. Although most characters and situations are fictional, the larger parameters of accurate historical events are my guideposts.
Art Simmons, Tom Bass, Clark & Potts Sales, the Lee Brothers, B. O. Tucker Stables and Dincara Stables brought fame to my town. They were world famous. Queen Victoria, Queen Marie of Rumania, Presidents Theodore Roosevelt and William McKinley, Will Rogers, and Buffalo Bill Cody were all admirers. Most of these celebrities purchased horses trained by those from Mexico, Missouri. William Shatner, Captain Kirk from Star Trek, is one of the recent admirers.
It’s been a blessing from God to transform my love for my hometown and its history into a book series that relays notable history and current building revitalizations in a series filled with intrigue and mystery.
It is my wish that readers will enjoy the series and fall in love with the town, the people, and the rich history of the area.
Thanks to the positive reception of the series, I’m under contract for a fourth book in the series, Show Me Murder . The historical structure highlighted will be Hardin College, a woman’s college founded in 1873. Presser Hall, a building used by the college, has been repaired, restored, and transformed into the Presser Arts Center. Presser Arts Center now produces events and offers classes and workshops in the study of fine arts.
Death comes knocking once again in Show Me Skulduggery, the captivating third book in the award-winning Show Me Mysteries series. These mysteries involve two eras, early 1900s, and contemporary times, featuring a famous Saddlebred horse stable in Mexico, Missouri. Intrigue, deception, underhanded behavior, and murder will keep you turning pages.
Present day: Because of her behavior, the disregard of the needs of her tenants, and her penny-pinching ways, everyone despises slumlord Katherine Mull. When a killer emerges and acts upon their desire to end Katherine’s life, Liesl, Kurt, and Nicole must race against time to identify the killer before this madman kills again. Can they track down the killer before someone else dies? Do they have the skills necessary to identify the killer before they become the target?
1920 through 1953: Mexico, Missouri is famous for being the “Saddlehorse Capital of the World” thanks to world-famous owner/trainers Tom Bass, C.F. Clark, Joseph Potts, George and William Lee, Robert Stewart, and Art Simmons. Each has built upon the solid, respected reputation of the previous trainer at these beloved stables until now. Who can discover and stop sabotage at the stables? Will the Saddlebred trainers be bankrupt if the breed’s sterling reputation is destroyed? Is murder the ultimate act of an evil man seeking revenge?
Ellen E. Withers is an award-winning fiction writer, freelance writer, and retired insurance fraud investigator. Her award-winning mystery dual-time series,
Show Me Mysteries
, published by Scrivenings Press, is set in her picturesque hometown of Mexico, Missouri. The third book in the series, Show Me Skulduggery, debuts May 2025.
Her nonfiction book about winning writing contests is Magic Words: How to Enchant Judges & Conjure Contest Wins, inspired by her writing contest column in the digital writing magazine Writers Monthly PDF .
Coming in 2026, Ellen will have a dual-time mystery series, Spa City Mysteries, set in Hot Springs, Arkansas.
Website: https://ellenewithers.com/
Author Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100071728886831
Amazon profile: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BWZ1G7JS
Instagram profile: https://instagram.com/lnwithers?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/33215146.Ellen_E_Withers
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/ellen-e-withers?list=about
While growing up in Mexico, Missouri, at the end of my elementary school day, I used to walk from my school to my grandmother’s house. Because my grandmother lived one block from the school, her place was much closer than my house. Spending time with my sweet and wonderful grandmother was one of the greatest blessings in my lifetime. There was another blessing I experienced when making that journey to Grandma’s house. My path took me beside the big stables, show rings, split-rail fences, and lush green lawns of Simmons Stables. Mr. Simmons trained many of the finest Saddlebred horses in the world. He did this for over 60 years, right in my hometown.
The horses that trotted around the ring, and switched gaits as if by magic, were amazing to experience. They were majestic creatures. None of them could be mistaken for average horse flesh. They were spectacular beasts sporting shiny hair coats, with manes and tails flowing in the wind.
The main stable was approximately eighty years old when I was walking past as a child and was still in pristine condition. The stable was a magnificent structure, 254 feet long, painted white, with a huge stained-glass half-moon window decorating the entrance. Sadly, time and Mother Nature caused the aging structure to become decrepit and dangerous.
Coincidently, my high school classmate Bobette Wilson, was one of many people in town who worked for years to return the stables to its historical greatness. The structure is now the International Saddlebred Hall of Fame and used as an events center and wedding venue. It is the oldest building in the United States continuously devoted to boarding and training champion American Saddlebred horses. It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Although I moved away from my hometown years ago, I incorporate Mexico, Missouri’s beautiful and historically interesting structures into my mystery series. The foundation of the Show Me Mysteries series was based upon my desire to embrace the interesting things that make my town special and to share its charm and history as a writer.
Each book in the series focuses on one of these hometown structures. My newest book, Show Me Skulduggery , features Simmons Stables and the rich, diverse history of Saddlebred horse trainers in Mexico, Missouri. My childhood visions of those beautiful horses have now come to life on the pages of a book.
Every book in my series includes two mysteries woven in a dual timeline. One mystery occurs in contemporary times and one in a book highlights an existing historical structure in my hometown. Characters from the contemporary storyline move forward with each new book. The historical characters remain within their historical timeline, but some are the antecedents of contemporary characters. In addition, romantic threads run through both the contemporary and historical storylines.
My goal is to use fictional characters and fictional situations to breathe life into local history associated with the featured structure. Although most characters and situations are fictional, the larger parameters of accurate historical events are my guideposts.
Art Simmons, Tom Bass, Clark & Potts Sales, the Lee Brothers, B. O. Tucker Stables and Dincara Stables brought fame to my town. They were world famous. Queen Victoria, Queen Marie of Rumania, Presidents Theodore Roosevelt and William McKinley, Will Rogers, and Buffalo Bill Cody were all admirers. Most of these celebrities purchased horses trained by those from Mexico, Missouri. William Shatner, Captain Kirk from Star Trek, is one of the recent admirers.
It’s been a blessing from God to transform my love for my hometown and its history into a book series that relays notable history and current building revitalizations in a series filled with intrigue and mystery.
It is my wish that readers will enjoy the series and fall in love with the town, the people, and the rich history of the area.
Thanks to the positive reception of the series, I’m under contract for a fourth book in the series, Show Me Murder . The historical structure highlighted will be Hardin College, a woman’s college founded in 1873. Presser Hall, a building used by the college, has been repaired, restored, and transformed into the Presser Arts Center. Presser Arts Center now produces events and offers classes and workshops in the study of fine arts.
Death comes knocking once again in Show Me Skulduggery, the captivating third book in the award-winning Show Me Mysteries series. These mysteries involve two eras, early 1900s, and contemporary times, featuring a famous Saddlebred horse stable in Mexico, Missouri. Intrigue, deception, underhanded behavior, and murder will keep you turning pages.Present day: Because of her behavior, the disregard of the needs of her tenants, and her penny-pinching ways, everyone despises slumlord Katherine Mull. When a killer emerges and acts upon their desire to end Katherine’s life, Liesl, Kurt, and Nicole must race against time to identify the killer before this madman kills again. Can they track down the killer before someone else dies? Do they have the skills necessary to identify the killer before they become the target?
1920 through 1953: Mexico, Missouri is famous for being the “Saddlehorse Capital of the World” thanks to world-famous owner/trainers Tom Bass, C.F. Clark, Joseph Potts, George and William Lee, Robert Stewart, and Art Simmons. Each has built upon the solid, respected reputation of the previous trainer at these beloved stables until now. Who can discover and stop sabotage at the stables? Will the Saddlebred trainers be bankrupt if the breed’s sterling reputation is destroyed? Is murder the ultimate act of an evil man seeking revenge?
Ellen E. Withers is an award-winning fiction writer, freelance writer, and retired insurance fraud investigator. Her award-winning mystery dual-time series,
Show Me Mysteries
, published by Scrivenings Press, is set in her picturesque hometown of Mexico, Missouri. The third book in the series, Show Me Skulduggery, debuts May 2025.Her nonfiction book about winning writing contests is Magic Words: How to Enchant Judges & Conjure Contest Wins, inspired by her writing contest column in the digital writing magazine Writers Monthly PDF .
Coming in 2026, Ellen will have a dual-time mystery series, Spa City Mysteries, set in Hot Springs, Arkansas.
Website: https://ellenewithers.com/
Author Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100071728886831
Amazon profile: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BWZ1G7JS
Instagram profile: https://instagram.com/lnwithers?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/33215146.Ellen_E_Withers
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/ellen-e-withers?list=about
May 5, 2025
Author Interview: Sarah Hanks
We're here today to chat with delightful author Sarah Hanks. She just might be busier than I am as she has five times as many children (if you're bad with math, just keep reading and you'll find out how many that is). Her books sound just as delightful and I hope you'll check them out after getting to know her here today. When you write, is there a genre you gravitate toward more than another? Why?I write split-time because I can’t seem to decide whether I enjoy historical or contemporary better. It’s fascinating to me how history impacts the present and I love to explore those connections in my novels. Nothing happens in a vacuum. My stories show how history inspires people in modern-day to make either similar or different choices.
Which of your characters is most like you and how?
That’s a hard one because there are pieces of me in every story I write. I will say that Amber’s journey with POTS in Fall Back and Find Me closely mirrors my own. I’m not Amber—Our personalities are a bit different—but the experience she goes through and how she deals with it reflects my own personal experience.
This is hard to admit because Amber is not always the most likeable character. When I went through 7+ years of chronic illness, I probably wasn’t the most likeable person either. Though I tried to display a tough and positive front, I was struggling big time with discouragement. The lesson Amber learns about her identity not being in what she does but in what Christ says about her is powerful. I know this first-hand as it truly changed my life to ask Jesus each day what He says about me. I’m thankful that readers tend to stick with Amber through the bumps and come out on the other side with a newfound understanding and appreciation of those who struggle with chronic illness. If a reader were to pick up one of your books for the first time, what could she or he expect?
She can expect all the feels. Readers tell me often that my books make them cry, laugh, and feel deeply. They experience a wide range of beautiful human emotion with my characters, walking in their skin.
What are you working on next? Can you give us a sneak peek?
Right now I’m writing the 2nd book in the Time Sailor series, Braving Fiery Waters. This series differs from my other books in that these books are timeslips/time travel novels. For me, they’re not much different to write. There’s still a historical storyline and a contemporary one. The only difference is a slight speculative element that transports a character from one to the other. It’s fun to write something a bit different.
With nine children, how on earth do you find time to write stories and curricula for Bible classes too?
Well, I don’t write Sunday school curricula anymore. That was in my “past life” before I started taking fiction writing seriously. I also don’t homeschool, though I used to. My children all go to school, with the exception of my 20-year-old with Down syndrome who goes to a day program. I’m privileged to have an ultra-supportive husband who allows me to pursue my writing passion. Every season of life has had its own rhythm. This season won’t last as is too much longer as I’m due with baby #10 in August.
Last but not least, what is one fact about yourself that very few people already know?
Another hard question because I’m pretty much an open book. If you follow me on social media, you know that I’m obsessed with the color yellow and ice cream. Hmm… in light of the release of Whatever It Takes, I will say that I’ve had three home births and four hospital births. (If you do the math, you’ll know two of our children are adopted.) My favorite birth was my home birth with my daughter Humility. It was 99% pain free and a delightful experience. (Unfortunately, it was the only birth of its kind. The others hurt!)
I can't even imagine. Wow! And congrats on baby #10! Now, dear readers, if you're in as much awe as I am, keep going and make sure you follow Sarah as well as checking out her latest book.
Whatever It TakesAt the brink of the Civil War, Henrietta Frontenac is a fierce protector of her five younger sisters. As poverty and despair threaten their survival, Henrietta takes a bold step to protect her family. She disguises herself as a man to find work at the docks and is soon swept into the ranks of the Confederate army. Facing unimaginable risks, will she maintain her secret identity, or will unexpected love unravel all she’s worked for?
In the present, Everly Moore, a former wild spirit turned compassionate chiropractor, has spent fifteen years trying to redeem her past. When her beloved sister Ivy faces the heart-wrenching challenge of infertility, Everly finds herself at a crossroads, unsure if she can confront her own trauma and step up as Ivy’s surrogate. After Everly and Ivy stumble upon the story of their brave relative Henrietta, they are inspired to confront their own fears. But will they make the difficult choices that could change their lives forever?
Dive deep into this intertwined narrative where past and present collide, showcasing the unyielding strength of sisterhood. A story of love, resilience, and the battles that unite us across generations.
Sarah Hanks is an award-winning author of Christian fiction in both the contemporary and historical genres. After spending over a decade mostly writing and teaching Sunday school curricula for churches in her community, she finally jumped into writing fiction full-time. She and her husband have nine children of their own, a couple of whom seem to have inherited their mother’s love for playing with words and crafting stories. Though Sarah dreams of a cabin by the beach, the family lives jammed together in beautiful chaos near St. Louis, Missouri. She buys earplugs in bulk.
Website: www.sarah-hanks.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSarahHanks
Instagram: https://instagram.com/authorsarahhanks
April 21, 2025
Book Spotlight: Waitin' on Paige
Can authors have a favorite among the books they write? Well, my friend and fellow author, Mary Pat Johns has an interesting take on that. See what you think and get a sneak peek at her book soon-to-release (which sounds amazing!). 
Book 4 of the Valiant series will release in July. Waitin’ On Paige is the last book of the series. With the release of Books 2 and 3 in 2024, I struggled to find the balance between marketing and writing. However, the Lord is in the refreshing business, and he gave me the time and strength I needed to make it happen. How good is that?
People often ask if I have a favorite in the series. That’s a hard one to answer. Book 1, Countin’ On Jesse will always hold a special place in my heart, as it’s my first published novel. Kind of like my firstborn. Everything was new and harrowing, but we made it. In Book 2, Lovin’ On Red, I wanted to show and share God’s extravagant love, because when the Lord makes things new, he does a bang-up job that lasts forever.
Book 3, Glitter and the Grouch surprised me. Two minor characters from Books 1 and 2 grew increasingly vocal about wanting their own book, so I combined their love story with the Texas Water Safari, the world’s toughest canoe race. I love following the race, so that book was a joy to write. I had originally planned for a 3-book series but added this sweet novella to let fans of Valiant have more page time. The title is so much fun, it still makes me smile.
That leaves Book 4, Waitin’ On Paige. Tavo Morales has returned to Valiant, Texas, to stir the embers of a relationship with the woman he has never stopped loving, but hidden reefs from his past threaten to destroy his future. Paige Munoz wants her new event planning business to be a success and won’t let anything stand in her way. But the path she’s on to make her dreams come true proves dangerous. Is the love Tavo and Paige once shared strong enough to survive his secrets and her stubbornness?
Before I began writing Waitin’ On Paige, I had a theme in mind. I wanted to show the dark side of glamorous living that’s often hidden. The way I did this was to include a character whose attractive appearance masked evil intentions. It wasn’t to target any real-time individual or company; I just wanted to clarify that we often accept carefully crafted facades at face value.
That said, Waitin’ On Paige was, by turns, fun and hard to write. So if you ask which book is my favorite, I’d have to say Waitin’ On Paige. But I’m developing a new series and already falling in love with my new characters. I think it’s safe to say whatever book I’m working on is my favorite.
About the book cover. I loved the way it came together. The word I’ve been hearing a lot is “cute.” While it definitely falls in the “cute” category, my hope is there’s plenty of meat to chew on between the front and back cover. When I revealed the cover to my newsletter subscribers, my crit partner said it nailed Paige. The confirmation meant a lot amid all the “cuteness.” Also, Linda Fulkerson, Scrivenings Press graphic artist-extraordinaire, worked hard to find a background color that would make the black eveningwear and the white lettering pop.
If you haven’t read the other books of the series yet, now is the perfect time. There’s time to read the first three books before Waitin’ On Paige’s release in July. Stay tuned! It may just be your favorite.
All he wants is to reclaim her love…
Tavo Morales has returned to Valiant, Texas, to stir the embers of a relationship with the woman he has never stopped loving, but hidden reefs from his past threaten to destroy his future. Paige Munoz wants her new event planning business to be a success and won’t let anything stand in her way. But the path she’s on to make her dreams come true proves dangerous. Is the love Tavo and Paige once shared strong enough to survive his secrets and her stubbornness?
Mary Pat Johns’ writing career began once she retired from teaching speech and writing. She has written devotions for an online publication, had short stories published by Chicken Soup for the Soul, and wrote a column for the Victoria Advocate, a local newspaper.
Countin’ On Jesse, her first novel debuted in 2023. Books 2 & 3 of the Valiant series, Lovin’ On Red and Glitter and the Grouch released in 2024. God put it in her heart to tell stories of brave veterans and their reintegration into civilian life after suffering the traumas of war.
She writes Christian romance because when we view life through the hope of Christ’s sacrifice, we find that happily ever after is God’s idea.
Mary Pat lives in South Texas with her husband and their two dapple dachshunds. Her grown children and five grandchildren are useful sorts who keep her grounded with her reading/writing obsession. You can find her at the gym, at her computer, or reading a good book.
Links:
Short link to Amazon/Romance in Valiant series https://bit.ly/4hhJvLj
FB link: https://www.facebook.com/marypatjohnsauthor/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marypatjohnsauthor/
Website: https://www.marypatjohns.com
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/marypatjohnspin/_saved/
Newsletter signup and Longin’ for Valiant download: https://prnt.sc/P_ZMgoPwSSY
Book 4 of the Valiant series will release in July. Waitin’ On Paige is the last book of the series. With the release of Books 2 and 3 in 2024, I struggled to find the balance between marketing and writing. However, the Lord is in the refreshing business, and he gave me the time and strength I needed to make it happen. How good is that?People often ask if I have a favorite in the series. That’s a hard one to answer. Book 1, Countin’ On Jesse will always hold a special place in my heart, as it’s my first published novel. Kind of like my firstborn. Everything was new and harrowing, but we made it. In Book 2, Lovin’ On Red, I wanted to show and share God’s extravagant love, because when the Lord makes things new, he does a bang-up job that lasts forever.
Book 3, Glitter and the Grouch surprised me. Two minor characters from Books 1 and 2 grew increasingly vocal about wanting their own book, so I combined their love story with the Texas Water Safari, the world’s toughest canoe race. I love following the race, so that book was a joy to write. I had originally planned for a 3-book series but added this sweet novella to let fans of Valiant have more page time. The title is so much fun, it still makes me smile.
That leaves Book 4, Waitin’ On Paige. Tavo Morales has returned to Valiant, Texas, to stir the embers of a relationship with the woman he has never stopped loving, but hidden reefs from his past threaten to destroy his future. Paige Munoz wants her new event planning business to be a success and won’t let anything stand in her way. But the path she’s on to make her dreams come true proves dangerous. Is the love Tavo and Paige once shared strong enough to survive his secrets and her stubbornness?
Before I began writing Waitin’ On Paige, I had a theme in mind. I wanted to show the dark side of glamorous living that’s often hidden. The way I did this was to include a character whose attractive appearance masked evil intentions. It wasn’t to target any real-time individual or company; I just wanted to clarify that we often accept carefully crafted facades at face value.
That said, Waitin’ On Paige was, by turns, fun and hard to write. So if you ask which book is my favorite, I’d have to say Waitin’ On Paige. But I’m developing a new series and already falling in love with my new characters. I think it’s safe to say whatever book I’m working on is my favorite.
About the book cover. I loved the way it came together. The word I’ve been hearing a lot is “cute.” While it definitely falls in the “cute” category, my hope is there’s plenty of meat to chew on between the front and back cover. When I revealed the cover to my newsletter subscribers, my crit partner said it nailed Paige. The confirmation meant a lot amid all the “cuteness.” Also, Linda Fulkerson, Scrivenings Press graphic artist-extraordinaire, worked hard to find a background color that would make the black eveningwear and the white lettering pop.
If you haven’t read the other books of the series yet, now is the perfect time. There’s time to read the first three books before Waitin’ On Paige’s release in July. Stay tuned! It may just be your favorite.
All he wants is to reclaim her love…Tavo Morales has returned to Valiant, Texas, to stir the embers of a relationship with the woman he has never stopped loving, but hidden reefs from his past threaten to destroy his future. Paige Munoz wants her new event planning business to be a success and won’t let anything stand in her way. But the path she’s on to make her dreams come true proves dangerous. Is the love Tavo and Paige once shared strong enough to survive his secrets and her stubbornness?
Mary Pat Johns’ writing career began once she retired from teaching speech and writing. She has written devotions for an online publication, had short stories published by Chicken Soup for the Soul, and wrote a column for the Victoria Advocate, a local newspaper.Countin’ On Jesse, her first novel debuted in 2023. Books 2 & 3 of the Valiant series, Lovin’ On Red and Glitter and the Grouch released in 2024. God put it in her heart to tell stories of brave veterans and their reintegration into civilian life after suffering the traumas of war.
She writes Christian romance because when we view life through the hope of Christ’s sacrifice, we find that happily ever after is God’s idea.
Mary Pat lives in South Texas with her husband and their two dapple dachshunds. Her grown children and five grandchildren are useful sorts who keep her grounded with her reading/writing obsession. You can find her at the gym, at her computer, or reading a good book.
Links:
Short link to Amazon/Romance in Valiant series https://bit.ly/4hhJvLj
FB link: https://www.facebook.com/marypatjohnsauthor/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marypatjohnsauthor/
Website: https://www.marypatjohns.com
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/marypatjohnspin/_saved/
Newsletter signup and Longin’ for Valiant download: https://prnt.sc/P_ZMgoPwSSY
April 14, 2025
Book Spotlight: Proclaimer
Do you love all things royal? I fully admit I love wearing a tiara every now and then. There's just something about it. But why? Well, good news. Guest Author, Megan Schaulis is chatting about just this today. Read on to see her theory, as well as learn more about her amazing-sounding books! 
Last year on my daughter's seventh birthday, she spent the entire day dressed as a queen. Like a real queen—Mary, Queen of Scots. My parents found the elaborate regal costume on a trip to England.
In fact, her birthdays have had a royal trend for years, starting at age two when I gave her a gold tutu and a little white dress with "Princess" emblazoned on the front.
If you're a girl-mom and you're reading this, you're likely either sighing because your own daughter is in the throes of her princess phase or sighing because you miss the sparkly crowns and tutus that once covered the house.
Now that I have a son, I'm sure there will be imaginary jousts and knighthoods in my future as my little prince connects with his inner hero.
All that to say, I'd kind of associated the love of all things royal with children...until I signed my first book contract with a royal-focused publisher.
Enter a world of modern-day fairytales, medieval lords and ladies, and—in my case—futuristic dystopian kingdoms. The evidence is clear: People of all ages long to experience royalty.
But why? What is it about kings and queens, princes and princesses that so wholly captures our imaginations?
"But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light" (1 Peter 2:9 NKJV).
"[Jesus] has made us kings and priests to His God and Father" (Revelation 1:6 NKJV).
"Redeeming love crowns you as royalty. Your thoughts are full of life, wisdom, and virtue. Even a king is held captive by your beauty" (Song of Songs 7:5 TPT).
I think we're fascinated by royalty because we are the children and heirs of the King of Kings! We are royalty. We have access to all the abundance of our Father's kingdom. And He cherishes us and fights for us like a royal champion.
No wonder authors are so led to create stories of royal wonder and pomp. No wonder we love to find out the ordinary girl is really a princess or to see the dashing young prince rise to answer his calling.
The Susa Chronicles, my debut series, is inspired by real-life royalty: Queen Esther. She wasn’t born into royalty, but she ended up the queen of one of the largest empires in history. Despite the difficulty of her path to a throne, I know one thing for sure. God saw her as royalty long before the world did. In fact, while the world was calling her a worthless, used concubine, God was calling her His beloved, cherished queen.
And He’s given you that title as well.
We ARE the royals dressed as common folk. We ARE the people called to greatness and courage.
I’ve always called my daughter Princess. And ever since she could talk, I've had her tell me why I can make that claim. Ask her, and she'll say she's the daughter of the King of Kings.
I think it's high time I remember who and whose I am, and return to my princess phase too.
Proclaimer, The Susa Chronicles Book 2
The only way to save her people is to betray the king she vowed to protect.
After the results of the Protector competition, Novalise is in more danger than ever. King Zadien seeks to destroy the Alphanites, and the only way Novalise can stop him is by winning a Request—one undeniable favor offered only to those who save the king from a deadly threat. With no imminent danger at hand, Novalise will have to commit treason to save her people.
Zadien is finally stepping into his role as king. With his “Astra” by his side, he’s determined to annihilate the traitors responsible for his father’s death. His romantic feelings for her haven’t faded, but pursuing her could leave his kingdom without a monarch. Is their fledgling relationship worth violating the law and risking his crown?
As the clock counts down for her people, Novalise must choose between manipulating the king’s affection and trusting the voice in her heart to lead her. When all her plans crumble, will she hide behind her new identity as a Protector or find a way to rise in such a time as this?
About Megan Schaulis
After a year of traveling the country in a 100-square-foot camper with her husband, daughter, and dog, Megan Schaulis was bursting with wonder and inspiration—and she poured it all into her writing.
Megan has a B.A. in Journalism from Arizona State University and is a member of the ACFW. As a special education teacher, she helped young people fall in love with reading and writing. Today, when she’s not spinning stories, Megan uses words in playful and creative ways at her branding agency. Her debut series, The Susa Chronicles, a dystopian reimagining of Esther, released with WhiteCrown Publishing.
Megan lives in Abilene, Texas, where you’ll find her staying up way too late reading or hiking with her family.
Sign up for Megan’s newsletter for clean book recommendations, encouragement from the Word, and a free short story.
Connect with Megan on Instagram (@MeganSchaulis)
Find The Susa Chronicles through your favorite online retailer, or order signed copies directly from Megan.
Last year on my daughter's seventh birthday, she spent the entire day dressed as a queen. Like a real queen—Mary, Queen of Scots. My parents found the elaborate regal costume on a trip to England.In fact, her birthdays have had a royal trend for years, starting at age two when I gave her a gold tutu and a little white dress with "Princess" emblazoned on the front.
If you're a girl-mom and you're reading this, you're likely either sighing because your own daughter is in the throes of her princess phase or sighing because you miss the sparkly crowns and tutus that once covered the house.
Now that I have a son, I'm sure there will be imaginary jousts and knighthoods in my future as my little prince connects with his inner hero.
All that to say, I'd kind of associated the love of all things royal with children...until I signed my first book contract with a royal-focused publisher.
Enter a world of modern-day fairytales, medieval lords and ladies, and—in my case—futuristic dystopian kingdoms. The evidence is clear: People of all ages long to experience royalty.
But why? What is it about kings and queens, princes and princesses that so wholly captures our imaginations?
"But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light" (1 Peter 2:9 NKJV).
"[Jesus] has made us kings and priests to His God and Father" (Revelation 1:6 NKJV).
"Redeeming love crowns you as royalty. Your thoughts are full of life, wisdom, and virtue. Even a king is held captive by your beauty" (Song of Songs 7:5 TPT).
I think we're fascinated by royalty because we are the children and heirs of the King of Kings! We are royalty. We have access to all the abundance of our Father's kingdom. And He cherishes us and fights for us like a royal champion.
No wonder authors are so led to create stories of royal wonder and pomp. No wonder we love to find out the ordinary girl is really a princess or to see the dashing young prince rise to answer his calling.
The Susa Chronicles, my debut series, is inspired by real-life royalty: Queen Esther. She wasn’t born into royalty, but she ended up the queen of one of the largest empires in history. Despite the difficulty of her path to a throne, I know one thing for sure. God saw her as royalty long before the world did. In fact, while the world was calling her a worthless, used concubine, God was calling her His beloved, cherished queen.
And He’s given you that title as well.
We ARE the royals dressed as common folk. We ARE the people called to greatness and courage.
I’ve always called my daughter Princess. And ever since she could talk, I've had her tell me why I can make that claim. Ask her, and she'll say she's the daughter of the King of Kings.
I think it's high time I remember who and whose I am, and return to my princess phase too.
Proclaimer, The Susa Chronicles Book 2The only way to save her people is to betray the king she vowed to protect.
After the results of the Protector competition, Novalise is in more danger than ever. King Zadien seeks to destroy the Alphanites, and the only way Novalise can stop him is by winning a Request—one undeniable favor offered only to those who save the king from a deadly threat. With no imminent danger at hand, Novalise will have to commit treason to save her people.
Zadien is finally stepping into his role as king. With his “Astra” by his side, he’s determined to annihilate the traitors responsible for his father’s death. His romantic feelings for her haven’t faded, but pursuing her could leave his kingdom without a monarch. Is their fledgling relationship worth violating the law and risking his crown?
As the clock counts down for her people, Novalise must choose between manipulating the king’s affection and trusting the voice in her heart to lead her. When all her plans crumble, will she hide behind her new identity as a Protector or find a way to rise in such a time as this?
About Megan SchaulisAfter a year of traveling the country in a 100-square-foot camper with her husband, daughter, and dog, Megan Schaulis was bursting with wonder and inspiration—and she poured it all into her writing.
Megan has a B.A. in Journalism from Arizona State University and is a member of the ACFW. As a special education teacher, she helped young people fall in love with reading and writing. Today, when she’s not spinning stories, Megan uses words in playful and creative ways at her branding agency. Her debut series, The Susa Chronicles, a dystopian reimagining of Esther, released with WhiteCrown Publishing.
Megan lives in Abilene, Texas, where you’ll find her staying up way too late reading or hiking with her family.
Sign up for Megan’s newsletter for clean book recommendations, encouragement from the Word, and a free short story.
Connect with Megan on Instagram (@MeganSchaulis)
Find The Susa Chronicles through your favorite online retailer, or order signed copies directly from Megan.
April 7, 2025
Author Interview: Allison Nance
While I haven't lived in Texas for almost eight years now, I did live there for eleven, and I am always excited to find another author from there. It's like a friend, even if we've never met. Though, after getting to know Allison Nance through her interview questions, I feel like we could be friends. Maybe we need to plan a family vacation to Galveston. See what you think and check out her gorgeous cover for her soon-to-be-released debut novel! Congratulations on your first full-length novel. What first inspired you to write this story?Thank you, Amy! Whew, we are diving in deep with this first question. The answer starts about nine years ago, when my husband and I were first given a heart for cross-cultural ministry, specifically for the people of Japan. Beginning in 2016, God impressed Japan on our hearts, and from that first prompting, we prayed and began learning about how we could best serve overseas. We joined a sending organization and were set to be in Japan in the summer of 2020... and we all know what happened that year. Japan's borders remained closed to non-citizens for almost two years, and finally in 2022, we made it to Sapporo, where we joined some friends who had an English cafe ministry. Approximately five months into our time in Japan, I started developing severe anxiety and insomnia, as well as several other physical effects related to these things. As a typically laid-back person, this was highly unusual for me, and I began seeking medical counsel. None of the doctors had any answers for me. Eventually, my anxiety became so intense, my husband and I decided it was best for our family to move back to the US so I could heal.
Coming back to Houston was good, but at the same time opened up a whole new level of difficulty. It was several more months until the Lord led me to a doctor who correctly diagnosed the source of my anxiety and insomnia: a severe Vitamin D deficiency. This diagnosis sounded SO strange to me! A vitamin deficiency was the cause of our ministry's end? A vitamin deficiency had the power to take my body down so completely? Apparently so. My doctor informed me that it would take months for my vitamin and hormonal levels to come back up to a healthy level, and for the insomnia and anxiety to cease. In the waiting, I also developed depression due to the lack of sleep and realization that my family had to effectively abandon a calling that my family had literally worked and waited for, for years.
But God. He placed me back in our home church with family and dear friends who walked beside us in that difficult season of transition and so, so many unknowns. One friend in particular encouraged me after Bible study by saying, "God isn't finished writing your story." Her words stuck with me in ways she couldn't have realized. Several other friends also suggested that I journal through the depression and anxiety, in order to record my feelings with the intent to look back--completely healed--and see what God had done. My first thought was, HECK NO! I never want to remember this time in my life, or how I felt! However, while I was still very much in the throes of depression, I felt led to write--not a nonfiction account of my feelings--but a story about a woman named Aimee Rojas. What began as a feeble attempt to process overwhelming anxiety and grief grew into a creative outlet which the Lord used to heal my mind, then into an 80,000 word manuscript, then querying agents and, a year later, signing with Hidden Shelf Publishing House for my debut novel, Deep Cries Out.
Did you put anything from your real life into your story? What and why? Are any of your characters more like you than another?
I drew heavily from my own life for this story! I felt the desire to write when I was anxious; in the middle of a panic attack, when depressive episodes were super heavy, in order to capture the authenticity of the feelings. If you haven't experienced anxiety or depression, it can be very difficult to describe what it feels like. I wanted to make these feelings palpable for the reader, and so I wrote through this dark time in my life. I'm SO glad I did! For this reason, Aimee shares the same diagnosis I had--Vitamin D deficiency--and the same effects. She grapples with a lot, and though her past and circumstances are vastly different from mine, her physical struggles are very much the same.
Why did you choose to set your book on Galveston Island? What made it perfect for your story?
I love Galveston! It gets a bad rap because the water is... let's say less than blue... but it has a ton of history and a unique culture of its own, apart from the rush and press of Houston. And besides, who can turn down a story laced with some beach-side romance?
As a mom and wife, what's been the hardest thing for you in finding balance between writing and family?
Timing. My family is in a super busy season, so writing in the margins has been vastly important. Equally as important, has been setting boundaries when I know I need to peel myself away from the screen and have my computer completely shut off. If I'm not intentional about living in the moment with my husband and daughter, not only will my family suffer, my writing will as well.
Are you working on anything else right now? Can you give us a sneak peek?
I actually JUST finished my second manuscript last week! I'm really excited about this next book and can't wait to see what God does with it. I can't say much about it, other than it's about a photojournalist in Rome who risks everything to save her teenage neighbor from a sex-trafficking ring. So really, nothing like Deep Cries Out or my real life! :)
And, last but not least, what is one interesting thing about you that not many people know?
I love music, especially singing, and was a vocal performance major in college for several years. I also have a Master's degree in Biblical Studies from Moody Seminary. Lastly, I LOVE connecting with readers, so to keep up-to date with pre-order information for Deep Cries Out and my other projects (and to download a free short story!) please sign up for my newsletter at www.allisonrnance.com
Aimee Rojas is a tenacious single mother at the height of her career in sales—until an unexpected diagnosis brings her life to a grinding halt. Retreating to Galveston Island on the coast of Texas, Aimee is immediately surrounded with supportive family and friends. However, she soon realizes accepting help from those closest to her comes with its own nuanced complexities. Aimee's beloved cousin reappears in her life, complete with his spiraling opioid addiction, and her handsome co-worker continues to keep her mind racing in spite of her hiatus from the job. The brightest spark of joy in Aimee's life is her daughter Anna, who quickly befriends the family next door. As Aimee grapples with the physical and mental effects of her illness, she has no idea her healing will involve the love of a man whose past is just as complicated as her own, and the surfacing of a lie which might not only end her career, but her life. Allison Nance has been talking, writing, and singing all kinds of words since before she can remember. Her debut novel, Deep Cries Out will be released in the Summer of 2025 by Hidden Shelf Publishing House.With a career in fine dining and special events spanning two continents and almost as many decades, Allison currently resides just outside of Houston, Texas with her family.
If she's not writing, she's probably baking.
You can follow her at www.allisonrnance.com
