Grace A. Johnson's Blog: Of Blades & Thorns, page 2
October 30, 2024
interview with bethany klassen
A month or two ago, Bethany Klassen approached me for an interview/spotlight here on the blog, and after an unexpected delay, I am so excited to finally share our interview! Bethany is the author of the Christian western novel Sins of the Past and its brand-new sequel, Tomorrow's Promise. She's on a mission to write action-packed his-fic that presents accurate and uplifting Biblical truths, and she's here to share all about it today!
Hello, Bethany, and welcome to Of Blades & Thorns! I am so excited to have you join us for an interview today! Before we get into it, do you mind telling our readers a little bit about yourself?
I’d love to! I’ll start with the bookish part, since that’s what we’re here for. :) I write Christian historical fiction with relatable characters, gripping action, and Bible truths. My stories are a part of me, and I feel passionate about creating clean, Christian fiction for readers of all ages.
I am also a lover of all things coffee, horses, nature, and Mexican food. (Anyone else into those things? Let’s be friends!) I love hiking or riding my horse in the mountains near our home. There’s nothing like a good view to remind us of how small we are, and how great our God is!
When did you first begin writing? What inspired you?
I can’t say I had any sudden inspiration or life-altering moment when I realized I wanted to write. It’s just something I have always done. As a kid, I would staple several pages together to make a book, then write a story and do the illustration myself. Sometimes I would run out of page space and had to end the book very abruptly. (Definitely not my recommended writing style!)
How has your writing—your stories, style, etc.—changed over the years? Looking back, what have you learned since you began writing?
One of the things I’ve learned is to get feedback on my writing. Because I used to write only as a hobby, I never asked anyone for feedback on my books. When I started seriously working towards publishing a book, however, that changed. I had many people—family and friends—who read my work and shared their opinions, suggestions, and comments. They gave me wonderful feedback that helped me to develop a much higher quality of writing.
You just released Tomorrow’s Promise , the sequel to your debut novel, Sins of the Past . Could you tell us about this series?
Of course! Let’s start with my first book. Sins of the Past was a unique book to write, and is a special story to me. Years ago I read a true account of a wild west outlaw who was accused of murdering a man. When the time came for his trial, his lawyer did such a good job fighting for him that he convinced the judge to release him, even though he was guilty.
Intrigued by this story—even though the outcome wasn’t right—I began to wonder, what would happen if an outlaw wanted to turn his life around? A story began to form in my mind—a tale of wrongdoing, regret, and redemption. This eventually led to the Western novel of Matthew Ellison and his search for forgiveness.
After publishing Sins of the Past, I moved on to write the rough draft of a completely different novel. However, readers kept asking if I was going to write a sequel to my first book. So, about half a year after its release, I returned to Sins of the Past and created a sequel for it.
Tomorrow’s Promise continues Matthew’s story, but also introduces new characters, each with their own struggles and victories. Where Sins of the Past focuses on themes of forgiveness and redemption, Tomorrow’s Promise centers around the truth of the new beginning Christ offers.
If there’s one thing you want to communicate to your readers, what is it? Why does your message matter?
It’s not my message that matters, but that of Jesus Christ. Through each of my books, I strive to bring out a clear gospel message. Gospel means “good news”. Jesus Christ died for the sins of the world, and offers eternal life to all who believe on Him. This important truth is what I want my readers to understand.
Why do you write? What’s your mission or purpose as a writer?
Part of the reason I write is simply because I love it. There are stories in my head just begging to be let out—to be shared with others. Writing has long been a part of me. It’s a hobby. A joy. A channel through which I can express my feelings.
Another reason I write is that I want other Christians to have good books to read. There are many talented writers of clean fiction, but it seems there aren’t enough. My desire is to provide clean fiction full of action and intrigue.
How did you decide to self-publish your novels? What have you learned in the process?
My dad was the first in our family to hear about the option of self-publishing. He encouraged me toward it, and I decided to give it a try.
Oh my! I have learned so much through the process of publishing my books! Where do I start?
I suppose what it all comes down to is, I have learned that determination goes a long way toward achieving one’s goals. I worked on a tight budget with both of my books, so I learned to do nearly everything myself from building a website to formatting my book to marketing. When you decide to stick with it, you’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish.
Do you believe God called you to be a writer? If so, how did that become clear to you and how would you encourage other aspiring authors to pursue their callings from God?
God has called each of His children to spread the news of Jesus Christ. Mark 16:15 says, “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” This is a great responsibility and one we ought to center our lives around as Christians.
Though writing may not be my main calling, it is one small thing I can do to bring glory to God and spread the word of Jesus Christ. I am open to His leading, should the Lord direct me in another way. If we desire to be in God’s will, we must live a surrendered life and be willing to change our plans according to His.
What do you do when you’re not writing?
I love taking my horse Turbo out for a long, peaceful ride—or a fast, reckless one. I also enjoy hiking the mountain behind our yard, sitting around a bonfire with my family, or cooking up some new type of food (though I’m horrible at following the recipe).
Finally, where can readers and fellow writers learn more about you and connect with you?
I would love to connect with other authors and readers! You can shoot me an email from my website, or join my mailing list. I’m also quite active on Instagram.
Thank you so much for joining me, Bethany! I appreciate you taking the time to share with us!
It was my pleasure! Thank you so much for the opportunity, Grace!
Matthew Ellison thought he had left his life as a lawman far behind. But when tales surface of a killer on the loose near Albury, his experience and skill are once again put to the test. Can he earn back the townspeople’s trust while protecting those he has come to love?
Tucked out of sight on her father’s ranch, Hazel McKinney’s dreams of finding love seem to grow more distant every day. Then a chance encounter with a charming young preacher changes everything - tossing her between dreams of the future and the present stark reality.
Nathan Royce traveled West years ago to join his uncle in the ministry. Dedicated to serving the townspeople of Albury, Texas, he tackles the job with all its challenges and heartache. Then one day Nathan runs into an intriguing young woman with a faith that matches his own. Can he protect her when danger threatens their newfound friendship and possibly even her life?
Bethany Klassen has been writing stories ever since she learned to put words on paper. Her debut novel Sins of the Past is a Christian Western that explores themes of redemption and faith. Bethany's goal in writing is to entertain readers with action-packed books that portray Biblical truths. You'll find Bethany training horses in her backyard, drinking coffee by the gallons while she plots her next book, or sharing new projects with her readers on Instagram (@bethany_klassen_).
#authorinterview #historicalfiction #western #newrelease #indieauthor #christianauthor #historicalauthor #historicalromance #newbook
October 28, 2024
a duplex bursting with cultures | guest post by andrea renee cox
Hello, all, and happy fall! In honor of the upcoming release of Novelists in November, Wild Blue Wonder Press' autumn-themed bookish anthology, I have one of its authors on to share some insight into her story! Please welcome Andrea Renee Cox!
My Novelists in November story, Melting-Pot Thanksgiving, features a duplex full of cultures. Sarah Jones is a white foster mother to a teenage black boy and a preteen Korean American girl. Each member of this family comes with his or her own culture—traditions, habits, and ways of behaving—the sum of which packs Sarah’s half of the duplex to the gills. It was fun researching and writing these cultures.
What surprised me the most once I got writing was that the different cultures played significant roles in some key moments in the story. How Sarah interacts with her parents and brother and the ways in which she mothers her children are varying shades of my experience as a Texan.* DJ’s manner during his most upset moments reflects the gangster background of his biological family. The way that Eun-Ji (pronounced Un-Jee) respects her elders shows how much honor is typically placed on the most aged members of Korean families.
What didn’t surprise me was that the cultures clashed at times. However, it wasn’t so much the cultures but the people who actually clashed. As in real life, these characters proved to be more than just their cultures, and their personalities didn’t always get along. What made their interactions so special was how they learned to ask forgiveness when they hurt one another and how they supported each other when life got rough. These are the sorts of things that supersede any differences we might have and what can heal a family, a community, and an entire nation.
One of my favorite moments is close to the end. While I can’t share the exact details, I will say this: Sarah’s heart for her found family is exquisitely expressed in the way in which she helps Eun-Ji’s halmae (grandmother) Min (pronounced Meen). This scene features the woman’s culture in a unique way, and I wept joyful tears as I typed Sarah’s act of selfless love. That moment in the story was the perfect culmination of all the earlier culture struggles and differences the family had experienced.
Writing this story that featured a melting-pot of cultures reminded me of just how important it is to cherish the personal traditions, habits, and ways of behaving that make up the cultures of the people in one’s circle of friends and family. I love learning about cultures from around the world, but there are also plenty of interesting ones right in my own community. I just need to ask questions and listen closely in order to find them.
* Sarah’s story is fictional. There are hints of my own tastes and habits, such as trying new dishes for holiday meals and shoving up my sweater sleeves because they feel “in the way” when I type, but the most dramatic bits are in no way meant to be autobiographical or reflect any real persons in my life.
Novelists in November
a Wild Blue Wonder Press anthology
Novelists in November is a Christian short story collection featuring eleven emotional tales of authors finding their calling in Christ and pursuing hope, joy, and inspiration. This anthology contains touching stories from contemporary and historical fiction authors with a mix of romance, women’s fiction, and mystery!
Andrea Renee Cox: “Melting-Pot Thanksgiving”
Bethany Willcock: “And As She Talked”
Hannah E. Gridley: “Reasons to Be Thankful”
Katja H. Labonté: “Act in the Living Present”
Faith D. Cox: “My Heart Still Sings”
Kellyn Roth: “Tollemache House”
Katie Zeliger: “Finding Beauty in the Suffering”
Shira J. Rodriguez: “The Lost History of Lavender Lockbourne”
Heather Flynn: “Pages of Grace”
Avrie Swan: “The Sound of Healing”
Kelsey Bryant: “Between Moor and Mountain”
Melting-Pot Thanksgiving by Andrea Renee Cox
Can she create the Imperfect Perfect Thanksgiving?
Sarah Jones has many responsibilities on her plate, but Thanksgiving wasn’t supposed to be one of them. When asked to host the holiday, she can’t push aside the task, even if it means dealing with her mother’s interference. As Sarah juggles meal preparations, a tight writing deadline, and guiding her two foster children through difficult life events, she must also find the courage to buck high expectations and family traditions.
Will the trials of strained communication, disappointment, heartache, and altered plans strengthen Sarah’s God-given novelist dreams? Will this imperfect yet dutiful daughter find a way to craft the perfect Thanksgiving dinner?
Novelists in November releases on November 19, 2024, so there’s still time to preorder your copy and get exclusive goodies, including audiobook narration for one of the stories, a recipe, bonus epilogues, and more! You can preorder on Amazon or straight from Wild Blue Wonder Press, then fill out the form below to claim your goodies!
PLUS everyone who preorders a copy of the book (ebook or paperback) get an entry into a giveaway that is exclusive to the folks who preorder the book!
Born and raised in north Texas, Andrea Renee Cox is a born-again child of God who enjoys writing stories that inspire, copyediting fiction manuscripts, tutoring middle school students, and going on road trips with her family. Whether she’s working on historical or contemporary, women’s fiction, romance, or romantic tragedy, she uses her skills in research and writing techniques—as well as a large dose of prayer and guidance from God—at every turn in the journey to produce the best story of her ability every single time. Her books may be found on her website, and readers are welcome to follow her blog and subscribe to her newsletter for the latest updates in her journey.
#guestpost #novelistsinnovember #preorder #preordergoodies #giveaway #anthology #shortstories #autumn #wildbluewonderpress
September 3, 2024
grace & gratitude | summer 2024
Hi. It’s been a minute. cough Three months. cough In a last-ditch effort to complete my current work-in-progress, Where the Sky Meets the Sea, in a timely manner, I quietly decided to take a break from blogging and email-sending for July and August. I’d scheduled a few blog posts ahead, so I settled in to work on writing. The goal was to finish my novella by the end of August…well, life happened in a very unexpected way, so I still have a couple chapters left. We’ll see how it turns out.
As for life, I got a “real” job last month. Since I finished school, I’d been running my grandmother’s gift shop whenever she was out sick, on vacation, etc. That amounted to a part-time job itself, but now that I’m Officially Grown, I needed something more consistent so (1) I can actually budget my income and (2) buy my sister’s half of our car and pay for ✨health insurance✨. What fun.
I actually really adore this job. It’s at a cafe (more like a cross between a burger joint and a sandwich shop, really) that just opened up in town, and I work in the kitchen assembling sandwiches and salads, patting out burgers and chopping veggies, and cleaning. (Basically, I get paid to do the same chores I did at home. ) Right now, I’m only working every other weekday, but my off days are still so jam-packed (still got those chores) that I haven’t quite worked out a steady routine or schedule yet. One of these days, I’ll get things figured out and be able to dedicate time to my online work. (Such as finally publicly launching Sky’s the Limit Press.)
Until then, we’re taking things one day at a time!
The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart
and a good conscience and a sincere faith.
1 Timothy 1:5 ESV
a new year of life
my new job + my lovely coworkers
my typewriter (best birthday present ever, perhaps?)
homemade shrimp scampi
French cuisine (including homemade eclairs)
fresh flowers wrapped in foil
driving on my own at long last
coffee dates with my sister
that one cool morning we had
strawberry matcha
rose lemonade tea (the drink of the summer)
Even though August was mostly work, I still got in a decent amount of writing! Nowhere near my 2019-2020 standard of 12k-14k a month (how???), but so much better than the last couple years.
Between July and August (I didn’t write at all in June ), I wrote a grand total of 11,368 words exactly in Where the Sky Meets the Sea.
I also…
finished one editing project
read a manuscript for the press
was interviewed by Shira J. Rodriguez, host of Her Reading Life podcast
wrote/published six blog posts (remember those days when I’d post six in one week?)
finished all the legal and financial stuff for STLP
had lunch with some friends (first!)
got a real job (another first!)
went to see Twisters with the fam
celebrated my birthday (+ three of my siblings’ birthdays)
The obvious: finish Where the Sky Meets the Sea and publicly launch STLP + open for submissions.
Otherwise: finish my read-through of Don’t Let Me Go (one of the novel’s on the press’ lineup) and get back into the swing of posting and whatnot. I should also have a project to critique sometime this month.
And that’s about it, really. ♀️
Even though I’m wrapping up three months, this post is pretty short. So I thought I’d share a little playlist I put together that captured a bit of summer!
And, to herald the coming of fall, a mini autumn bucket list to inspire you to enjoy every moment in this new season!
Make a fall playlist
Make a non-pumpkin spice latte (try apple cinnamon, ginger, chai, cinnamon roll, pecan pie, or another classic flavor to break up the nonstop flow of PSL)
Undertake a fall-themed arts and crafts project (like a wreath or table arrangement)
Read a fall book (either something with autumn vibes like Lord of the Rings or something set in fall like Jane Eyre)
Make a simmer pot (use the juices for cider when you’re done!)
Buy/wear a new sweater (unless it’s 90 degrees for you too)
Pick apples, pumpkins, or another autumn crop
Roast fall veggies (sweet potatoes + cayenne & cinnamon, carrots + cumin, pumpkin + ginger)
Brew tea out of a seasonal herb, flower, or spice
Make a fall-themed charcuterie board to share
Watch an autumn movie with family or friends (e.g., Remember the Titans, You’ve Got Mail, It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown, etc.)
#graceandgratitude #summer #autumn #fall #playlist #bucketlist #writingupdate #writingprogress #verseofthemonth #scripture #scriptureofthemonth #gratitude #monthlygoals #progress #writing #goals
August 26, 2024
project reveal | where the sky meets the sea
Happy Monday, folks! Back in June, I shared my intentions for my platform and my current writing projects—and y’all insisted I divulge the deets on some of those projects. I feel like I’ve been dropping hints, so to speak, here and there about the stories over the last few months, but now that I’m really moving forward with these WIPs, I figured it was time to do an official project reveal.
So, drum roll please…
This was very much a surprise story. When I opened submissions for Of Storm & Sea this time last year (how has it been a year??? ), I knew I wanted to write something to include in this anthology. And I thought I knew what that was. I even spent my vacation plotting (yes, plotting) the story I had on my mind.
But the thing was, this story wasn’t on my heart. I kept trying to force it to work, kept trying to overcome my doubts, kept trying to reshape it into what I wanted it to be—but I failed miserably every time. The truth was, this story had zero heart itself. It was more about the unique premise and fantastical elements than it was about the themes and messages and characters. Which, if you know me, you know that goes against everything I am as a writer. If I’m not passionate about the theme, if I’m not using this story to glorify God, if I don’t love the characters…it ain’t gonna happen.
So instead of poring over a story I didn’t believe in, I opened up a blank document and quite literally typed the first thing that came into mind.
(Arguably my best first line ever, as strange as it is.)
It’s still taken me eight months just to write 17,000 words, but boy, has it turned out so much better than my first idea. Not only is this exactly the kind of story I would want to read, it also speaks to me so much and is full not only of the tropes I love but of the messages and themes I love. It’s full of God, really. (Aka, preachy, but when am I ever not preachy?) And I’ve realized He was what I was missing all along. (Suffice to say you won’t find me writing anything other than Christian fiction anytime soon. )
All the doubts I had have disappeared, and I’ve literally just been having the time of my life writing this short story.
But enough about that! Y’all are here to learn more about the story, not about my feelings for it.
the premise
I describe Where the Sky Meets the Sea as Esther meets Persephone x Hades. It’s not the most accurate description, but it’s fun. Imagine Esther as an island princess, the daughter of a Spanish governor of a Cuban island. When her island is besieged by pirates, Rosamund Alcaçar is faced with a choice: let the pirates ransack her island or marry their captain—the notorious El Leviatán.
Naturally (unnaturally for the rest of us, of course), Rosamund sacrifices herself for her village and marries El Leviatán—but not without a lot resistance and fear. Rosamund must either trust God to bring something good from her marriage to the pirate captain, or murder the man in his sleep.
You can probably guess what she decides to do, but I won’t spoil it.
As I write this, I’m almost 20,000 words into this story. It’s shaping up to be about 25k…maybe? I always seem to end up writing more than I intend to, so don’t hold me to 25k.
It’s taken me about nine months to get to 20k, which is standard for me lately. Like I’ve said before, ever since finishing BAD, I have just not been on top of things. I’m not even burnt-out, because I’ve had more motivation to write in these last two years than ever before. It’s just time. I have no time.
I digress. Most of my progress has occurred over the summer (y’all may have noticed I lowkey disappeared off the face of the earth the last couple months minus some pre-scheduled posts so I could write), which is good. I wrote about 5.5k words in July alone, which is fairly decent. Though for comparison, I used to average about 14k a month (roughly two chapters in one of my full-length projects).
ACK! The vibes of this thing!! The tropes!! It’s literally all of my favorite stuff thrown together into one lil’ story.
For starters, our main tropes are…
enemies-to-lovers
unwanted/arranged marriage
deal with the devil
pirates (yes, pirates are a trope of their own, thank you very much)
redemption arc
evil bad boy, dark and brooding, strong and silent hero who’s actually a cinnamon roll (but would still kill you) (iykyk)
virgin heroine (literally and figuratively, in that our girl Rosamund is the sweet, saintly saving grace kinda heroine)
“touch her and die” (haters, y’all just gon’ hafta deal with this one ♀️)
tragic backstory
I said main tropes, didn’t I? Okay, I’ll stop now.
As for ✨le vibes✨…
You may observe the Pinterest board here, or read the descriptors below.
palm trees laden with coconuts and peaches
waves breaking against rocky shores in a shower of seaspray and foam
the ocean swallowing the sun with bursts of orange, yellow, and pink
roses wilting beneath the summer sun
orange blossoms on Talavera tiles
the scent of woodsmoke and saltwater lacing the air
dawn caressing the cliffs with rose-gold fingers
dust dancing in the moonglow
It’s not a project reveal without an excerpt, am I right?
Isla Dédalo, Archipelago de los Canarreos
Sometime in the 1660s (don’t mind me; I’m still figuring out the exact year)
“You can either be wed to the man or be ravished by him. Pick your poison.”
Rosamund Alcaçar quivered at her father’s pronouncement, a gasp echoing from where her mother sat at the harpsichord. The words, coarse and foul, hung heavy in the air, tainting the jasmine-scented atmosphere and slowly but certainly suffocating her.
This was not how she had pictured her marriage unfolding, not even in her wildest nightmares. What should have been a joyous new chapter had been twisted into a hasty exchange with the devil.
Instead of rejoicing, she grieved.
Silent tears streaked down her cheeks, mussing her powder and rouge, and her knuckles whitened under the pressure of her harsh grip on the couch arm. If only she were afforded time to process this, to cower under her coverlet and let loose the raging emotions within her. If only she had a choice.
But nay. The decision had already been made; it was only that her word would solidify it. It was only her word, her willingness, that stood against the destruction of an entire city.
She swallowed past every refusal weighing on her tongue and rolled her shoulders back. If it were to be her life for the lives of every man, woman, and child in Isla Dédalo, so be it.
So be it.
Padré Dios, grant me the strength to bear this burden. Bolster me as Thou didst Ester.
In her peripheral, Madré slipped from the harpsichord bench to her knees, clutching her rosary to her bosom as her body heaved with dry sobs. “Why our Rosamund, Matteo? Why my little girl, of all the women in the Archipelago? all the women in Cuba?”
Her father, at first so stalwart and commanding, cracked, his arms falling limply to his sides. “I know not, mi amor. I know only what the messenger told me—I am to deliver up my daughter or deliver up my town. In good conscience, I can do neither. I cannot risk my child nor my neighbors’ children to satisfy the salacious desires of a beast so vile as El Leviatán. But his forces have besieged us on every side and are poised to attack us at any moment, or else starve us out and take the city.”
Oh, they knew how dire the situation was. Day by day it had only grown worse, until they could not leave the confines of their homes, let alone send some sort of communique to the navy or the surrounding islas and cayos. Essentials were becoming more scarce each moment, as trade halted and merchants were closed and their resources were siphoned off by the pirates surrounding them. Only three people had dared to defy by attempting to escape yesterday—two were shot on sight.
The third wished she had been.
Either way, she was going to die at the hand of El Leviatán. The question was whether she would take the rest of Isla Dédalo down with her.
Madré fell silent, the tremble of her chin against the tensity of her jaw testament that she was resigned to the truth—as much as she could be, at least, knowing her sole child would be offered up as a veritable sacrifice.
Rosamund reached to clasp her hand, willing courage to pour from herself into her mother—though she barely had enough to sustain her alone. “Precious Mamí, I will do as I must. And rest assured, if the opportunity presents itself for me to murder El Leviatán in his sleep and I return to you, I will seize it with both hands. But if I am destined to be the pirate captain’s bride—” her stomach roiled “—then I will be, knowing that the Lord who holds the stars in the heavens holds me in the palm of His hand.”
Her mother’s eyes welled with fresh tears as she bowed her head over their joined hands. “My daughter, my only child! You are too pure for this world, preciosa Rosamund. I cannot bear to give you up. I cannot…I cannot…”
Rosamund gathered her into her arms and they clung to each other, weeping, as Padré dropped to his knees beside them and wept soft, soundless tears.
Lastly, I am in need of two (sí, only two) beta readers for when I have completed this story, applied my alpha readers’ feedback, and done my own edits. So if you’ll have some free time to spare this fall and need something to entertain yourself with, may I offer my hastily thrown together conglomeration of pirates and princesses and controversial tropes? (There’s plenty of food descriptions! )
If you’re interested, please comment below and let me know! I would really appreciate it.
Anywho, that summarizes pretty much everything. I think I’ll leave y’all with a selection of some of my favorite lines from the story thus far, and then we’re out. ✌️
They could closet her away in a castle, surround her with finery, and spoon-feed her platitudes, but she would not forsake her people. She would not ignore the atrocities befalling them. She would not sit by in her high tower and watch the world beneath her burn.
There was no light. No escape. No peace. Only the darkness and the man who dwelt within.
The light wrote poems on his face. Tales of dishonor and deception in the scars on his cheeks. Epics of jungle adventures in the set of his jaw. Fantasies of stars crashing into the ocean in the constellations in his eyes. It was pretty poetry, but merely that. Carefully arranged words meant to convince one of something untrue. Ear-tickling, enchanting lies.
No, the light did not condemn her, nor did the darkness disturb her. The light reassured her. The darkness reminded her of from whence came her hope.
As her eyes adjusted, she took in the full breadth of the Carro del Diablo—patched black sails, taffrail with its curved balusters worn and splintered, rigging surrounding her like bars, broad-shouldered and sun-darkened captain at the prow. The man and the ship were one, feet and deck melting together, hair and canvas flowing in tandem, and both frightening and captivating all at once.
Dawn’s rose gold breath clung to her like skin to bone, painting her in shades of saffron and violet. Pressing her like a flower into the pages of his mind.
Her gaze bore into his hands, covering hers. His nails, chipped and broken. Broken like her heart. Her family. Her life. Him.
He saw to her every need—such as having her favorite dishes prepared and allowing her an afternoon siesta, as if churros and naps could make atonement for him. Who was she fooling? She was but a woman; desserts and sleep covered any sin.
#wheretheskymeetsthesea #projectreveal #historicalfiction #novella #newbook #newstory #newproject #wip #writing #writingupdate #historicalromance #romance #sneakpeek #christianfiction #writingprogress #betareaders #workinprogress #quotes #snippet #pirates
August 13, 2024
interview with caitlin miller
It has been a hot minute (i.e., nine months) since I last shared an author interview. I am so excited to finally be back in the game with an inspiring interview with the lovely Caitlin Miller! Caitlin is the author of the award-winning historical novels The Memories We Painted and Our Yellow Tape Letters.
Although her books are still sitting on my TBR (anybody wanna buy me a belated birthday present?? JK, JK), I've been following her on Instagram for some time now and have been so uplifted by her encouraging content! This girl is so creative, sweet, talented, and such a blessing to the writerly community! I hope y'all enjoy our interview.
Hello, Caitlin, and welcome to Of Blades & Thorns! I am so excited to have you join us today! Before we dive into the interview, do you mind telling our readers a little bit about yourself?
So thrilled to be here! Yes, absolutely. I’m an author, editor, poet, writing coach, and part-time English teacher, so I wear a lot of hats nowadays. I’ve lived in Japan, Budapest, England, and am now back in the US, where you’ll find me with my nose in a book or a pen in hand as I jot down new storyline ideas.
When did you first begin writing? What inspired you?
I first started my writing journey when I was 13. For my birthday, I was gifted a book set, and that was the first time I’d read through an action-packed fiction story. I fell in love with the idea of creating a storyline that keeps the reader engaged and incorporates themes that will be impactful too.
How has your writing—your stories, style, etc.—changed over the years? Looking back, what have you learned since you began writing?
Oh goodness, my writing has changed so much over the years. When I first started writing, my stories were self-serving rather than God-honoring, and I was really convicted of that in my later teen years. I took a long break from writing, and then, once my heart was in the right place, God gave me an idea for a story, which ended up being my debut novel, The Memories We Painted. Something I learned since I began writing that’s stuck with me is this: if I’m writing a story so that I’ll get compliments or praise, it’s unfilling; if my goal is to make a difference in others’ lives and telling a story that points readers to God, it fills me with so much purpose.
You’ve released two historical novels thus far— The Memories We Painted and Our Yellow Tape Letters . Could you tell us about these beautiful books?
Absolutely! The Memories We Painted is a historical fiction novel set in the 1950s about a young woman, Josie, who received a life-altering diagnosis of polio as a child. As she tries to find meaning and purpose in her life when faced with her limitations, she discovers her love for painting—and using painting as a way to tell the stories and memories she’s lived.
Our Yellow Tape Letters is a World War II novel focusing on a young woman, Lucy, whose brother fights on the front lines, and a soldier, Jeremiah, who was close friends with her brother. When she receives news that her brother died serving his country, Jeremiah writes to Lucy; he’s the only one who truly knows of his friend’s time in the war—and how he died.
If there’s one thing you want to communicate to your readers, what is it? Why does your message matter?
The stories you’re afraid aren’t “good enough” to publish might be the exact ones that readers need. Don’t let your fears hold you back. You can never fully imagine the impact your words will have on someone’s life. Be fearless. Your message matters because if you were called to write, someone was meant to read your words.
What’s next for you in this stage of your author journey? Are you currently working on any other projects?
I’ve completed writing my third book, which I’m currently pursuing to get traditionally published. While I’m waiting to hear back from agents, I’m in the beginning stages of drafting my fourth book. I’m so passionate about these new books, and I can’t wait to be able to share more about them!
What are your goals or mission as a writer?
My goal and mission as a writer is to write stories that point readers back to God, the Greatest Author of all stories.
How do you keep your creative juices flowing, even during rough times?
There are two things I do. First, I’ll get out of the house and go somewhere where I creatively thrive—for me, that’s a coffee shop. Sometimes, just being out of the house and in a different environment helps me feel inspired to keep writing during rough times. The second thing I do is take any expectations off myself to meet a certain quota for that week—a specific word count—and let myself write as I feel I have the capacity to.
Do you believe God called you to be a writer? If so, how did that become clear to you and how would you encourage other aspiring authors to pursue their callings from God?
I absolutely believe that God has called me to be a writer. I was going through a very difficult season of life, learning a lot of hard lessons about suffering and how an all-knowing, all-powerful God can allow those He loves to deeply hurt when I felt so clearly God calling me to write my debut novel, The Memories We Painted—which is a book that explores so many of the hard lessons I learned throughout that season of life.
I would encourage other aspiring authors to pursue their callings from God in this way: never cling so tightly to a dream, passion, or goal that you would refuse to let it go if God asked you to. Surrender is at the forefront of our callings; we have to be willing to give up when He asks us to and not be willing to give up when the enemy tempts us to.
How have you seen God’s hand in your life?
Oh, goodness. In so many ways. One of the most profound ways would be as He’s sustained me through years of chronic health struggles. Even on my hardest health days, when I don’t think I’ll have the strength to make it through, He is my strength. I’m afflicted, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; struck down, but not destroyed (2 Corinthians 4:8).
In addition to writing fiction, you’re also an award-winning poet, editor, and book coach! (You go, girl! ) How can writers work with you on their books?
Writers can check out my editing services on my website (https://caitlinfaithmiller.com/editing) or contact me on Instagram (@authorcaitlinmiller). I offer developmental, line, and proofreading services, as well as writing coaching classes, and would love to work with any writers out there looking for an editor or writing coach!
Finally, where can readers and fellow writers learn more about you and connect with you?
My website: https://caitlinfaithmiller.com
Instagram: @authorcaitlinmiller
Email: catiemillerbookreviews@gmail.com
I’m most active on those platforms and would love to connect! :)
Thank you so much for joining me, Caitlin! I so appreciate you taking the time to share with us!
Thank you so much for having me!
Caitlin Miller has long dreamed of spinning words into stories. She draws her inspiration from things most familiar to her: her relationship with God, her family and friends, and life lessons. In addition to being an author, she is also an editor, award-winning poet, writing coach, and part-time English teacher. You'll find Caitlin with her nose in a book or a pen in her hand as she jots down new storyline ideas.
Find Caitlin and her books and services here!
#interview #authorinterview #christianauthor #indieauthor
October 5, 2023
my fall bucket list
If you know me well, you know autumn is 110% my all-time favorite season. I honestly don't know why, because we don't really get much of a fall around here...but I still enjoy the tiny hint of coolness we get and the overall idea of autumn.
So what better way to make the most of the season than by making a bucket list of everything I wanna do, am I right?
I've seen so many people making bucket lists (like Ava Coulter and Deigan Marie), and I just had to make one of my own!
go for a walk (in the cool of the day)
make an autumn spice cup of tea
enjoy a caramel frappe
make my own fall-scented perfume
make an autumn playlist & dark academia playlist
take bookstagram photos with leaves
read an autumn-themed or -set book
make healthy treats & smoothies
make homemade apple cider
make a fall bread
catch up on penpal letters
study the Gospels
write a poem about autumn
make a persimmon souffle
drink eggnog (YES EGGNOG SEASON IS HERE) (who am I kidding? it's always eggnog season)
create fall-themed digital downloads for my resource library
make my own autumn-scented candle
watch a fall movie
what's on your bucket list this autumn?Also, if anyone has any recommendations for fall movies and books, drop them below!!
#autumn #fall #bucketlist
October 4, 2023
welcome to of blades & thorns
Aha! You’ve found my blog, lovely reader! If this is your first time traversing through the deep, dark depths of my website, this post shall be your guide…and if you’ve simply been lurking in the shadows for months, then consider this your official introduction to my blog.
This blog began in November of 2019 on Goodreads, where I wrote and published posts until I finally created a website in August of 2020 and migrated my posts to an actual blog. At the time, it was called Gabbing with Grace; the name was changed in July 2021 when I updated the website design (the first time) to Of Blades and Thorns.
Nearly four years after its original inception, this blog has been updated in terms of design and content a multiplicity of times (and I changed the name one last time—just by replacing “and” with “&”)…and I think I’m finally pleased with it.
This is a safe haven for readers and writers and Christian girls to connect and interact without the cling and clatter of social media. It’s a creative community where I share everything from book reviews and recipes to writing advice and devotionals…and I am so glad you get to be a part!
what to expectLots of bookish beauty and writerly wonder.
Seriously, expect a post once a week (that’s my goal, at least, so we’ll see…) that’s either a book review; interview with a Christian author, creator, or entrepreneur; update on my writing; writing, publishing, or marketing advice or inspiration; or a heartfelt, devotional-style message. Hopefully I’ll even be able to incorporate from lifestyle content as well as I begin cultivating a more holistic lifestyle of my own!
My desire is to bless, benefit, and serve my readers by providing them with content that inspires their God-given creativity and uplifts their spirits—whatever that may look like. If there’s something that you long to see (or read, technically) or a way I can benefit and serve you, please let me know!
who I amObviously, you can go to my about page and get the scoop on yours truly…but in case you were curious about how my personality, life experiences, beliefs, etc., affects the content I post, I wanted to share. I’m one of those weirdos who loves to know exactly what I’m getting into before I start subscribing, reading, or buying things—you know?
So on the surface level, I’m a homeschool graduate from rural South Georgia, I’m the oldest of seven kids, and I was raised in church in a conservative environment. I currently attend a Nazarene church (which is part of the Wesleyan church…just not anti-biblical like the modern-day United Methodist church), but I was more or less raised Bapticostal (Baptist + Pentecostal).
On a deeper level, I’m simply a whole Bible-believing Christian who lets Scripture dictate my political and ethical views. Because of that, I do believe in traditional gender roles, having an open womb, biblical marriage (one man and one woman), purity and chastity, natural wellness, and crazy stuff like the public education system is ruining our children and big pharma isn’t helping either. I hold that Christians are meant to be united as one with no divisions (that includes denominations) and that our faith in God should permeate every aspect of our lives.
So what does that mean for this blog?
Well, I don’t expect to talk politics and conspiracy theories much, so no worries there…but my beliefs on faith and culture will affect what books I share about (and how I rate/review them), the perspective from which I share advice and inspiration, the content and views I promote here and in my books, and the basis of my devotionals and spiritual content. Everything is going to center around living for Christ in every way, growing in our faith, being sanctified, and pursuing the calling He’s placed on our lives.
how to connectIf you’re interested in more ways to connect with me or want to discover more content (or maybe you hate reading long blog posts and would rather read a short caption or listen to a podcast), then check out my platforms below!
any questions?Feel free to drop any questions you have about what I post, my beliefs, my books, or what’s coming next on Of Blades & Thorns in the comments below! If you have ideas or suggestions for posts, you’re welcome to comment them as well!
what are you most excited for about of blades & thorns?
October 2, 2023
spotlight | a dare and a prayer by julie lessman
If you've been following me/this blog for long, you'll at least know this one thing: I absolutely adore Julie Lessman. Both as an author and as a person. Y'all, I devour every book this precious woman writes because they are all simply SO GOOD!
And now the time has FINALLY come for her next release, the third installment in the Cousins O'Connor series, A Dare and a Prayer!
This book is...whew. It was by far her heaviest book, because she tackles the tough topic of child sex-trafficking a way that was tasteful but also very honest. A Dare and a Prayer is not for the faint of heart (or readers under the age of 18), but those who can handle the discussion of child trafficking (as well as Julie's trademark passionate romance and even more passionate sharing of God's Word) will challenged and inspired by this book, trust me!
Now, before I introduce y'all to the story, I wanted to mention that Julie will be donating a portion of her book sales from A Dare and a Prayer to a Project Eden, an organization that helps fight human trafficking. This mission is so important, and the themes of this book showcase just how much in a way that truly breaks your heart for what children across the world suffer today.
~ the book ~
He’s a hotshot who takes up a dare.
She’s an aspiring missionary who wants to beware.
But will love become a gamble with a dare and a prayer?
Lieutenant Henry Dennehy is a cocky and carefree fighter pilot in the Pacific Theatre of WW2, known for scoring big, both in the sky and on land. But when his buddies offer a bet he can’t refuse to turn the head of the “untouchable” nurse at 369th Station Hospital—a woman who’s shot down more flyboys than the enemy—he’s bound and determined to win. Problem is, if he wins the dare, will he lose at love?
Lieutenant Amy Leigh MacArthur was on her way to the mission field when she detoured to fight for her country instead, an Army nurse whose interest lies only in healing the wounded and teaching orphans to read. Certainly not in men, and definitely not in Henry Dennehy, the boy who ridiculed her years ago as a shy and homely teen. But when Henry pursues her and won’t take no for an answer, Amy finds a way that gives him no choice.
Until, that is, love does the same for them both ...
~ the author ~
Julie Lessman is an award-winning author whose tagline of “Passion With a Purpose” underscores her intense passion for both God and romance. A lover of all things Irish, she enjoys writing close-knit Irish family sagas that evolve into 3-D love stories: the hero, the heroine, and the God that brings them together.
Author of The Daughters of Boston, Winds of Change, Heart of San Francisco, Isle of Hope, Silver Lining Ranch, and The Cousins O’Connor series, Julie was American Christian Fiction Writers 2009 Debut Author of the Year and has garnered over 21 Romance Writers of America and other awards. Voted #1 Romance Author in Family Fiction magazine’s 2012 and 2011 Readers Choice Awards, Julie’s novels also made Family Fiction magazine’s Best of 2015, Best of 2014, and “Essential Christian Romance Authors” 2017-20, 2021 and 2023, as well as Booklist’s 2010 Top 10 Inspirational Fiction and Borders Best Fiction. Her independent novel A Light in the Window was an International Digital Awards winner, a 2013 Readers' Crown Award winner, and a 2013 Book Buyers Best Award winner.
Julie has also written a self-help workbook for writers entitled Romance-ology 101: Writing Romantic Tension for the Sweet and Inspirational Markets. Contact Julie through her website and read excerpts from each of her books at www.julielessman.com.
~ the giveaway ~To celebrate the release of A Dare and a Prayer’s, Julie has not one but TWO contests going on where you can win the following:
GRAND PRIZE (2 chances to win!):
~ $50 Amazon gift card or $25 Amazon gift card
~ Choice of three of Julie’s e-books or one of her signed paperbacks
~ A character named after you or a loved one in her next book and a signed paperback copy
~ Your choice of one paperback from Julie’s list of top-selling CBA authors, including Tamera Alexander, Colleen Coble, Rachel Hauck, Denise Hunter, Robin Lee Hatcher, Nancy Naigle, Cara Putman, Deborah Raney, Katherine Reay, Becky Wade, and Beth Vogt.
RUNNERS-UP PRIZES (8 chances to win!):
~ Choice of three of my e-books
~ OR choice of one of my signed paperbacks (based on her private stash)
~ OR choice of one paperback from a list of the above-mentioned top CBA authors (based on her private stash)
~ the tour ~October 1 — Radiant Light Blog
October 1 — LiteraryScape Book Club
October 2 — Grace Johnson Spotlight (you are here!)
October 3 — Britt Reads Fiction
October 4 — Where Faith and Books Meet
October 5 — A Baker’s Perspective
October 6 — My Favorite Pastime
October 7 — Reading is My SuperPower
October 8 — Writing Between the Lines
October 9 — Locks, Hooks, and Books
October 10 — Splashes of Joy
October 10 — Saraina Whitney Blog
October 11 — Radiant Light Blog
October 12 — Miss Pippi Reads Blog
October 13 — Christian Bookaholic
October 14 — Grace Johnson Review
October 15 — Scraps of Life Blog
I am so excited to be sharing my review on the 14th, so y'all stay tuned! I'd love to know...have y'all read anything by Julie Lessman? What are some tough issues or themes you wish books would address more often? How do you think fiction can impact what we think or inspire use to act in real life?
#bookspotlight #spotlight #christianfiction #historicalfiction #WWIIfiction #romance #historicalromance #christianromance #julielessman #giveaway #blogtour #entertowin
(Pst! My Amazon links are affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission from any qualifying purchases made through those links at no extra cost to you.)
October 1, 2023
grace & gratitude
“I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.” ~ L.M. Montgomery
October has come in a flurry of leaves and cool breeze, signaling the time to pull out the pumpkin spice and cozy sweaters. I don’t know about you, but I am beyond excited for the arrival of autumn, even though I’m aghast at the light-speed passage of time. So much has been going on in the last few months—my goals and intentions have been changing, I’ve switched projects, I’ve started new things and reevaluated old ones.
And you may have noticed something special…
My website has been redesigned. With the redesign comes new features and services over the next few months. I’m ecstatic to debut a new and improved line of author services soon, as well as a resource library specifically for my patrons. My hope is that this new site is truly inviting and encompasses everything I offer—as an author, blogger, editor, and person in general.
As I’ve been undergoing an eighteen-month-long experiment with Instagram, I’ve realized that as much as I love social media, nothing can replace the value of my website and blog. So I want this to be the hub of my bookish community, not any other channel or outlet. Those will simply be other ways to draw fellow readers and writers into this space of creativity and connection, where we can share and interact without being bombarded by everything else under the sun.
I want this platform to radiate joy and hope, and I’m starting by reinventing my monthly updates series into “Grace & Gratitude.” I’ll still be sharing goals (hopefully with the intention of keeping myself accountable) and progress updates, but in a more gracious, grateful way.
It’s all too easy to look at our lives, careers, hobbies, projects, schoolwork—whatever we have going on—through grey-colored glasses. Forget rose-colored; we view everything as being time-consuming and challenging or unfinished and slow or boring and valueless. This mindset of discontent and disappointment only reaps bitterness and resentment…and I’d much rather cultivate thankfulness and peace and see value in everything I do.
So I’m gonna change things up a bit and see how it goes!
~ verse of the month ~“[D]o not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”
Philippians 4:6 ESV
~ gratitude ~praise & worship
water
autumn
biscuits with honey butter
work
blueberry yogurt pretzels
nachos
favorite songs
birthdays
Vindication (the show, not the actual thing )
my new website
answered prayers
dreams come true
story ideas
Pinterest boards
~ grace ~It’s only by the grace of God that I managed to write over 4,700 words in my not-so-forbidden project. I have more or less upgraded The Forsaken to an official WIP, and the words just keep flowing. *is in shock but also outrageously excited*
I also did a round of edits for a client and—obviously—updated my website and have made progress on rebranding, blogging, and posting.
As far as my reading goes, I read a lot and didn’t have the good sense to keep up with it. I’ve let so many things go lately. I read Therefore I Have Hope by Daisy Henkle for endorsement, Voice of the Ancient by Connilyn Cossette, and two gorgeous poetry collections: Bygone by Hannah Linder and Clarion Hope by Laurel Luehmann.
~ goals ~
My hope is that October will be The Month. That is, the month I finally launch Sky’s the Limit Press. Of course, with how chaotic life has been lately, I can’t guarantee anything, but that’s my hope.
I would also love to write at least 2k more in The Forsaken and maybe get started on my novella for Of Storm & Sea! (Yes! I’m actually working on something for this anthology, unlike with Tell Me You Love Me. We’ll see how it goes!)
I’ve got several post ideas for my blog and Instagram all three of them that I’d like to post (rather than letting those ideas float around in my brain for the next six months); and a long list of ARCs to read and review. So we’ll see how this month goes!
What about you, O Fair Reader? What does October have in store for you? What did you accomplish in September? How can you change your mindset to encourage joy, contentment, peace, and rest?
And who else wishes there were more books like Nancy Drew out there?
#graceandgratitude #monthlyupdates #goals #october #verseofthemonth #scripture #writingprogress #theforsaken #writingupdate #reading #gratitude #monthlygoals #progress #progressreport #writing
September 25, 2023
coming soon | the cost of the crown by joy crain
Let's face it. It's hard to resist a royal romance. From the political intrigue and glittering grandeur to the beautiful balls and bejeweled tiaras, there's something about handsome princes and castles in faraway lands that make you want to fall in love!
Which is why I know you're not gonna wanna miss this unique twist on a classic trope! The Cost of the Crown puts an Asian spin on the timeless tale of royal romance, and it's available for preorder now!
~ the book ~
Missy Hanson never dreamed of falling in love and living happily ever after. In fact, she doesn’t know what she wants to do after she graduates from college; nevertheless, she’s content working as a journalist for her local newspaper and assisting at her aunt’s California bakery. When a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity emerges for her to visit the southeast Asian country of Andelar, Missy is thrown into the world of royalty as the special guest of the king and queen—and it’s clear she doesn’t belong, despite her family ties to the area. But the royal family isn’t without its mysteries. Rumors abound that a secret prince is hiding amid Andelar’s society, and Missy is determined to find out who he is.
Aiden Waverly never wanted a crown or a title. He craves a normal life, but being a secret prince of biracial background is difficult enough and would create chaos amid the tabloids if the press learned about his parentage. After years of traveling the world to help those in the greatest of need, he’s faced with a life-altering decision: take his place as crown prince or walk away as a commoner. With no clear path that will satisfy him and the royal family, the tug between following his heart and doing his duty to Andelar becomes harder every day.
When a chance encounter throws Missy and Aiden together, neither of them are prepared to challenge what they thought they knew about themselves. And when an ancient royal law threatens to tear them apart, they must decide how much they are willing to risk for love.
~ the author ~
Joy Crain was born in Guangdong Province, China, where she lived with her American adoptive parents. Born with a vivid imagination and a love for books and storytelling, Joy started writing her own stories around the age of 13, and the journey continued from there.
Currently, Joy lives in China, where she spends her time teaching English and pursuing her passion for writing.
Follow her on Facebook, Goodreads, and Instagram, or subscribe to her newsletter and check out her website!
What's one of your favorite royal reads (or watches)? Have you read any books set in fictional country? What about books set in Asia? Drop the titles down below!
#comingsoon #bookspotlight #romance #royal #whitecrown #preorder #contemporary #contemporaryfiction #debut
