Deborah Vogts's Blog, page 113
October 17, 2012
Book Preview ~ Against The Tide
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingAgainst the TideBethany House Publishers (October 1, 2012)byElizabeth Camden
Love and Lives are Threatened in Camden's Latest Offering
As a child, Lydia Pallas became all too familiar with uncertainty when it came to the future. Now, she's finally carved out a perfect life for herself--a life of stability and order with no changes, surprises, or chaos of any kind. She adores her apartment overlooking the bustling Boston Harbor, and her skill with languages has landed her a secure position as a translator for the U.S. Navy.
However, it is her talent for translation that brings her into contact with Alexander Banebridge, or "Bane," a man who equally attracts and aggravates her. When Bane hires Lydia to translate a seemingly innocuous collection of European documents, she hesitantly agrees, only to discover she is in over her head.
Just as Bane's charm begins to win her over, Lydia learns he is driven by a secret campaign against some of the most dangerous criminals on the East Coast, compelled by his faith and his past. Bane forbids any involvement on Lydia's part, but when the criminals gain the upper hand, it is Lydia on whom he must depend. If you would like to read the first chapter of Against the Tide, go HERE.
A Word from Elizabeth:
I am a college librarian in central Florida by day, but by night I can be found pounding out inspirational historical novels the moment the sun goes down. I love writing books about fiercely intelligent people who are confronted with profound challenges. As a rather introverted person, I have found that writing is the best way for me to share my faith and a sense of resilience with others.
I married relatively late in life, which turned out to be an odd kind of blessing. I had gotten very good at leading a solo life, and although I was not particularly content being alone, I had become reconciled to it. Most importantly, it taught me never to take my husband for granted. I give daily thanks for the blessing of being able to share a life with my favorite person on the planet.
As for who I am? I love old Hitchcock films, the hour before sunset, a long, sweaty run through the Florida countryside, and a glass of good wine. After spending my entire adult life on a college campus (either as a student or a librarian) I have finally been able to pursue my ultimate goal of writing professionally.
Love and Lives are Threatened in Camden's Latest Offering As a child, Lydia Pallas became all too familiar with uncertainty when it came to the future. Now, she's finally carved out a perfect life for herself--a life of stability and order with no changes, surprises, or chaos of any kind. She adores her apartment overlooking the bustling Boston Harbor, and her skill with languages has landed her a secure position as a translator for the U.S. Navy.
However, it is her talent for translation that brings her into contact with Alexander Banebridge, or "Bane," a man who equally attracts and aggravates her. When Bane hires Lydia to translate a seemingly innocuous collection of European documents, she hesitantly agrees, only to discover she is in over her head.
Just as Bane's charm begins to win her over, Lydia learns he is driven by a secret campaign against some of the most dangerous criminals on the East Coast, compelled by his faith and his past. Bane forbids any involvement on Lydia's part, but when the criminals gain the upper hand, it is Lydia on whom he must depend. If you would like to read the first chapter of Against the Tide, go HERE.
A Word from Elizabeth:
I am a college librarian in central Florida by day, but by night I can be found pounding out inspirational historical novels the moment the sun goes down. I love writing books about fiercely intelligent people who are confronted with profound challenges. As a rather introverted person, I have found that writing is the best way for me to share my faith and a sense of resilience with others.I married relatively late in life, which turned out to be an odd kind of blessing. I had gotten very good at leading a solo life, and although I was not particularly content being alone, I had become reconciled to it. Most importantly, it taught me never to take my husband for granted. I give daily thanks for the blessing of being able to share a life with my favorite person on the planet.
As for who I am? I love old Hitchcock films, the hour before sunset, a long, sweaty run through the Florida countryside, and a glass of good wine. After spending my entire adult life on a college campus (either as a student or a librarian) I have finally been able to pursue my ultimate goal of writing professionally.
October 15, 2012
Farewells and New Beginnings
Old burial cross at Zion Lutheran Church Cemetery, Olpe, KSThis past week, my husband's grandfather passed away, and we had his burial near Olpe, KS. Grandpa Vogts would have celebrated his 96th birthday in November. 
Grandma and Grandpa on their 70th Wedding AnniversaryGrandma Ella went to her Heavenly Home a few years ago. After the funeral, our family visited the old homestead to pick out a few cherished items for keepsakes.
We ended our time together with supper at the Chicken House in Olpe. Grandpa LOVED eating at the Chicken House, and we celebrated many family events there. It seemed fitting to gather there once more in honor of him.
On a more happy thought, our oldest daughter and her husband recently announced that they were expecting their first baby in March 2013! We're thrilled at this news. I'm going to be a grandma! What joy God offers his children here on earth. We praise Him for his gifts and mercy on us.
REST IN PEACEAlvin A. Vogts11/20/1916 - 10/7/2012
October 12, 2012
This Week's Recipes
Here are this week's new additions on Country at Heart Recipes. Hope you have a great weekend!
German Spaetzle
Rosemary Garlic Artisan Bread
Menu Ideas for a Cold Autumn Night
German Spaetzle
Rosemary Garlic Artisan Bread
Menu Ideas for a Cold Autumn Night
October 10, 2012
Book Preview - All Things New
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingAll Things NewBethany House Publishers (October 1, 2012)byLynn Austin
For many years, Lynn Austin nurtured a desire to write but frequent travels and the demands of her growing family postponed her career. When her husband's work took Lynn to Bogota, Colombia, for two years, she used the B.A. she'd earned at Southern Connecticut State University to become a teacher. After returning to the U.S., the Austins moved to Anderson, Indiana, Thunder Bay, Ontario, and later to Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Lynn resigned from teaching to write full-time in 1992. Since then she has published twelve novels. Five of her historical novels, Hidden Places, Candle in the Darkness, Fire by Night, A Proper Pursuit, and Until We Reach Home have won Christy Awards in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2008, and 2009 for excellence in Christian Fiction. Fire by Night was also one of only five inspirational fiction books chosen by Library Journal for their top picks of 2003, and All She Ever Wanted was chosen as one of the five inspirational top picks of 2005. Lynn's novel Hidden Places has been made into a movie for the Hallmark Channel, starring actress Shirley Jones. Ms Jones received a 2006 Emmy Award nomination for her portrayal of Aunt Batty in the film.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
In the aftermath of the Civil War, Josephine Weatherly and her mother, Eugenia, struggle to pick up the pieces of their lives when they return to their Virginia plantation. But the bitter realities of life after the war cannot be denied: their home and land are but shells of their previous grandeur; death has claimed her father and brother; and her remaining brother, Daniel, has returned home bitter and broken. The privileged childhood Josephine enjoyed now seems like a long-ago dream. And the God who failed to answer any of her prayers during the war is lost to her as well.
Josephine soon realizes that life is now a matter of daily survival--and recognizes that Lizzie, as one of the few remaining servants, is the one she must rely on to teach her all she needs to know. Josephine's mother, too, vows to rebuild White Oak...but a bitter hatred fuels her.
With skill and emotion, Lynn Austin brings to life the difficult years of the Reconstruction era by interweaving the stories of three women--daughter, mother, and freed slave--in a riveting tale. If you would like to read the first chapter of All Things New, go HERE.
For many years, Lynn Austin nurtured a desire to write but frequent travels and the demands of her growing family postponed her career. When her husband's work took Lynn to Bogota, Colombia, for two years, she used the B.A. she'd earned at Southern Connecticut State University to become a teacher. After returning to the U.S., the Austins moved to Anderson, Indiana, Thunder Bay, Ontario, and later to Winnipeg, Manitoba. Lynn resigned from teaching to write full-time in 1992. Since then she has published twelve novels. Five of her historical novels, Hidden Places, Candle in the Darkness, Fire by Night, A Proper Pursuit, and Until We Reach Home have won Christy Awards in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2008, and 2009 for excellence in Christian Fiction. Fire by Night was also one of only five inspirational fiction books chosen by Library Journal for their top picks of 2003, and All She Ever Wanted was chosen as one of the five inspirational top picks of 2005. Lynn's novel Hidden Places has been made into a movie for the Hallmark Channel, starring actress Shirley Jones. Ms Jones received a 2006 Emmy Award nomination for her portrayal of Aunt Batty in the film.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
In the aftermath of the Civil War, Josephine Weatherly and her mother, Eugenia, struggle to pick up the pieces of their lives when they return to their Virginia plantation. But the bitter realities of life after the war cannot be denied: their home and land are but shells of their previous grandeur; death has claimed her father and brother; and her remaining brother, Daniel, has returned home bitter and broken. The privileged childhood Josephine enjoyed now seems like a long-ago dream. And the God who failed to answer any of her prayers during the war is lost to her as well. Josephine soon realizes that life is now a matter of daily survival--and recognizes that Lizzie, as one of the few remaining servants, is the one she must rely on to teach her all she needs to know. Josephine's mother, too, vows to rebuild White Oak...but a bitter hatred fuels her.
With skill and emotion, Lynn Austin brings to life the difficult years of the Reconstruction era by interweaving the stories of three women--daughter, mother, and freed slave--in a riveting tale. If you would like to read the first chapter of All Things New, go HERE.
October 8, 2012
Mailbox Monday
As mentioned before, I LOVE hearing from my readers by email or by regular post. This past summer, I received my first letter from someone in prison who had read my book,
Snow Melts in Spring.
It was a long letter and very personal, but I thought I might share a few lines of it here with you, in hopes that it might inspire you in some way. I know it certainly touched my heart. ~
"Dear Deborah,
I am writing you from federal prison. A few days ago I was browsing around the chapel library not really knowing what I was looking for but I knew whatever it was God would lead me to it. He did just that! God guided me to a book that you wrote . . . ."
"I am a recovering alcoholic and addict. By the age of eleven, I was running with gangs and living on the streets . . . this is my second time in prison. The first time I did 2 1/2 years on a 5 year Texas State Prison sentence. I was a hot tempered, atheist, and I hated everything that life had to offer . . . . I am currently serving a 10 year sentence . . . ."
"[Two months later], I was in such despair, I no longer wanted to remain in this world. The moment before I attempted to take my life something happened. God and I went toe to toe. Needless to say, He won! Now I live for Him."
"These past two years haven't been easy. Nothing in life is, but I wake up each day trying to live for God as He wants me to live. Today, I understand Hope and Love."
"So, I'm reading your book, then out of nowhere, my past is flashing in my mind like an old movie projector. All these thoughts and emotions that I kept hidden, kept running from, just keep coming to the surface ... the pain got so bad that I hit my knees and called out to Jesus to help me. I didn't want to finish the book, it hurt too bad."
"I gave in and did as God directed. I finished the book. I then knew God's purpose and it was time to heal . . . . I was finally able to forgive myself and ask [my son] to forgive me . . . . He said 'Yes mommy, it's okay and Jesus forgives you too.'"
"God spoke to me through your words and today I am free. No longer plagued by shame and guilt. Today is new!!" ~ HS
Deborah here:
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow. Praise Him, all creatures here below; Praise Him above, ye heav'nly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen
"Dear Deborah,I am writing you from federal prison. A few days ago I was browsing around the chapel library not really knowing what I was looking for but I knew whatever it was God would lead me to it. He did just that! God guided me to a book that you wrote . . . ."
"I am a recovering alcoholic and addict. By the age of eleven, I was running with gangs and living on the streets . . . this is my second time in prison. The first time I did 2 1/2 years on a 5 year Texas State Prison sentence. I was a hot tempered, atheist, and I hated everything that life had to offer . . . . I am currently serving a 10 year sentence . . . ."
"[Two months later], I was in such despair, I no longer wanted to remain in this world. The moment before I attempted to take my life something happened. God and I went toe to toe. Needless to say, He won! Now I live for Him."
"These past two years haven't been easy. Nothing in life is, but I wake up each day trying to live for God as He wants me to live. Today, I understand Hope and Love."
"So, I'm reading your book, then out of nowhere, my past is flashing in my mind like an old movie projector. All these thoughts and emotions that I kept hidden, kept running from, just keep coming to the surface ... the pain got so bad that I hit my knees and called out to Jesus to help me. I didn't want to finish the book, it hurt too bad."
"I gave in and did as God directed. I finished the book. I then knew God's purpose and it was time to heal . . . . I was finally able to forgive myself and ask [my son] to forgive me . . . . He said 'Yes mommy, it's okay and Jesus forgives you too.'"
"God spoke to me through your words and today I am free. No longer plagued by shame and guilt. Today is new!!" ~ HS
Deborah here:
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow. Praise Him, all creatures here below; Praise Him above, ye heav'nly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen
October 5, 2012
This Week's Recipes
Here are this week's new additions on Country at Heart Recipes. Enjoy your weekend!
Homemade Spaghetti Sauce with Mushrooms and Meatballs
Molasses Crinkles
Mexican Sour Cream Rice
And Pumpkin Coffee Cake by Featured Author Sharon Souza.
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Homemade Spaghetti Sauce with Mushrooms and Meatballs.JPG)
Molasses Crinkles
Mexican Sour Cream Rice
And Pumpkin Coffee Cake by Featured Author Sharon Souza.
October 3, 2012
Celebrating Birthdays
Last week my oldest daughter and I celebrated our birthdays together.
My dear, sweet husband surprised me with roses upon turning 47 years old.
My birthday began with a trip to Pittsburg, KS at 5:15 AM, when I escorted my two youngest daughters to a radio interview with Dalton James Windsor at My Country 101.7 FM.
Afterwards, I took them to breakfast at Otto's Cafe. So fun!
The next day, my mom and I drove to Olathe to visit our oldest daughter on her birthday! We had a lovely day, shopping and eating out. This was our first time in 5 years to celebrate our birthdays together. What joy! 
My dear, sweet husband surprised me with roses upon turning 47 years old.
My birthday began with a trip to Pittsburg, KS at 5:15 AM, when I escorted my two youngest daughters to a radio interview with Dalton James Windsor at My Country 101.7 FM. 
Afterwards, I took them to breakfast at Otto's Cafe. So fun! 
The next day, my mom and I drove to Olathe to visit our oldest daughter on her birthday! We had a lovely day, shopping and eating out. This was our first time in 5 years to celebrate our birthdays together. What joy!
October 1, 2012
Book Preview ~ Hearts in the Mist
Elizabeth Goddard is the award-winning author of more than a dozen novels, including the romantic mystery, The Camera Never Lies—a 2011 Carol Award winner. A 7th generation Texan, she graduated from the University of North Texas with a B.S. in computer science and worked in corporate America for a decade before retiring to home school her four children and write romantic suspense novels. She lives in Louisiana with her husband and children. Learn more about Beth and her books HERE.
Beth's newest release: Hearts in the MistSela’s not sure which way to turn. For five years, Sela Fox has run her redwood burl gift shop…and tried to move past her husband’s death. When she unexpectedly meets a stranger in the mist-laden forest surrounding her property, something is kindled between them. But can she trust Evan Black—and is she willing to let the past fade?
Evan Black’s relationship with his father has never been ideal,but he’s shocked to learn his father expects him to woo widow Sela to secure her land for a big development deal. Evan plans to appease his father by meeting Sela—then make a clean break altogether. That is, until he finds his heart drawn to her. As Evan wrestles over confronting Sela with the reason behind his sudden appearance, a long-hidden secret upsets both his and Sela’sintentions. Will it end their growing attraction, too? Preorder this book.
September 28, 2012
This Week's Recipes
Here are this week's additions to Country at Heart Recipes. Enjoy this first weekend in Autumn!
Hummingbird Cake
Oatmeal Jammies
Cinnamon Applesauce
Hummingbird Cake
Oatmeal Jammies
Cinnamon Applesauce
September 26, 2012
Book Preview ~ Two Destinies
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingTwo DestiniesDavid C. Cook (September 1, 2012)byElizabeth Musser
Elizabeth Musser, author of acclaimed novels such as The Swan House, grew up in Georgia, but now lives in Lyon, France, where she and her husband serve as missionaries with International Teams. Look for Two Testaments, her sequel to Two Crosses, in stores now, and Two Destinies, the third book in the trilogy, set for release in Fall 2012.
A word from Elizabeth:
Recent exciting news is that, finally, the whole trilogy is going to be published in 2012. Many readers have written to me throughout the years to encourage me to keep pursuing getting Two Destinies into print. In a fun twist of fate (really the Lord's perfect timing), David C. Cook (who originally published Two Testaments) has offered me a contract for all three novels. The Secrets of the Cross Trilogy will be published in June 2012 (Two Crosses and Two Testaments) and in September, 2012, Two Destinies will be in the bookstores for the first time!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Now 1994, France faces unrest and rising poverty while neighbor
Algeria is in the midst of a blood civil war. Risléne Namani, a French
woman born to Algerian parents, converts to Christianity and falls in
love with Eric Hoffmann, a Christian, committing the unpardonable
sin in the eyes of her Muslim family. Eric must find a way to rescue
her—from a forced marriage in Algeria, or even death.
A powerful, relevant tale of social struggle, heartache, cultural conflict,
and faith put to the ultimate test. If you would like to read the first chapter excerpt of Two Destinies, go HERE.
Elizabeth Musser, author of acclaimed novels such as The Swan House, grew up in Georgia, but now lives in Lyon, France, where she and her husband serve as missionaries with International Teams. Look for Two Testaments, her sequel to Two Crosses, in stores now, and Two Destinies, the third book in the trilogy, set for release in Fall 2012.A word from Elizabeth:
Recent exciting news is that, finally, the whole trilogy is going to be published in 2012. Many readers have written to me throughout the years to encourage me to keep pursuing getting Two Destinies into print. In a fun twist of fate (really the Lord's perfect timing), David C. Cook (who originally published Two Testaments) has offered me a contract for all three novels. The Secrets of the Cross Trilogy will be published in June 2012 (Two Crosses and Two Testaments) and in September, 2012, Two Destinies will be in the bookstores for the first time!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Now 1994, France faces unrest and rising poverty while neighborAlgeria is in the midst of a blood civil war. Risléne Namani, a French
woman born to Algerian parents, converts to Christianity and falls in
love with Eric Hoffmann, a Christian, committing the unpardonable
sin in the eyes of her Muslim family. Eric must find a way to rescue
her—from a forced marriage in Algeria, or even death.
A powerful, relevant tale of social struggle, heartache, cultural conflict,
and faith put to the ultimate test. If you would like to read the first chapter excerpt of Two Destinies, go HERE.
