Becky Wade's Blog, page 159
April 22, 2020
Our Anchor
Hi friends,
I pray you are healthy and safe during this time of crisis. I may have mentioned that I have been listening to Alistair Begg sermons via Truth for Life since my daughters were young and homeschooled. Every day we’d get our breakfast and sit down with our bibles and have what we called ‘Breakfast with Begg.’ My girls are grown, but I’ve kept the practice. I get my breakfast, grab my bible and notebook and pull up a sermon on Truth for Life. Since the Covid 19 pandemic, Begg has started a new and really cool feature on Truth for Life’s blog.
The Ministry of Music
Each day he shares either a post on “Insight for Dark Days” where he reads a section of scripture and gives application. Or, he shares part of his favorite hymns. Music has always had a special place in my heart. Growing up my family played a number of instruments. I played the flute through middle school and also dabbled with acoustic guitar. I miss my time with those instruments and as I sit at home and think of ways to keep my focus on Christ and not the chaos, I’m seriously considering getting my flute out (yes, I still have it) and playing again. It would need a serious overhaul job as it’s been dormant for more years than I’m willing to admit but let’s just go with numerous decades.
Not only does playing an instrument require all your attention and thus is a soothing exercise and one that helps sharpen focus during this time when my thoughts are prone to run rampant, but I can learn to play hymns, learn to play worship songs.
“Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth: make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise.” ~Psalm 98:4
I’m not sure after all these years what will come out will be a joyful noise, but it’ll come from a yearning heart, yearning to be near my Savior and to praise Him for His provision and providence. For Him being our anchor.
We Have an Anchor
Speaking of anchors, Begg’s hymn of choice today was “We have an anchor” by Priscilla J. Owen. I’ll just share a part of the lyrics, but you can click here to hear Begg’s video or here to read the full hymn. I pray it blesses you today!
We have an anchor that keeps the soul
Steadfast and sure while the billows roll,
Fastened to the Rock which cannot move,
Grounded firm and deep in the Savior’s love.
Source: Hymnary.org
Reader Question:
Do you play an instrument? If not, which one would you love to try?
May God bless and keep you,
Dani
April 21, 2020
Author Reading from Colors of Truth
I saw a meme the other day about the challenges of “sheltering in place” that stated, “I’m even missing the people I don’t like!” That gave me a chuckle.
How are you, friends? How are you doing in this reduced bubble of life?
I pray you’re well and that our country (and world as a whole) is swiftly approaching a “reopening” and that together we’ll face the new normal—whatever that turns out to be—with courage and optimism. Because we know with full assurance that Jesus is in control. (Can I get an amen?!)
In honor of “sheltering in place,” last week a group of author buddies and I each did a reading from one of our novels, and I thought I’d share mine with you today. I hope it brings a smile. Especially when you see what Bailey (one of our dogs) did while I was recording said video! Ugh!!
My reading is from Colors of Truth, a Carnton novel (book 2) that releases July 7.
PRE-ORDER Colors of TruthHey friends! Join me for a quick “author reading” today. I’m reading from my upcoming book #ColorsofTruth, a Carnton novel (book 2) that releases JULY 7. I‘m part of a group of authors doing this today, and I was actually supposed to post an hour ago. Sorry. But my MacBook died (literally won’t boot up now, sigh…) so I’m working from my iPhone (#majorfirstworldproblem!) only to have my husband text me a pic of what one of our dogs did while Joe and I were both on Zoom calls. Oy! Bailey (an Australian Terrier) may look sweet but she’s a little scamp! I included a pic at the end of both her and Murphy and of what she did, bless her heart—in the truest Southern sense! Hugs from Nashville, friends, and I’d love to hear from you after you’ve watched.
Posted by Tamera Alexander on Wednesday, April 15, 2020
So what do you think? Other than I should have forewarned you about the bad Southern Irish accent!
I LOVED writing about Catriona and Nora, two wonderfully spirited and often-at-odds-with-each-other Irish sisters who know how to get the best of each other. And often do!
This same group of author buddies also recorded some quick and fun Q&A sessions about life during the time of the corona virus. You can view those videos on my YouTube channel:
WATCH Sheltering in Place Q&A Sessions So tell me…
How ARE you really doing? Have you ever been to Ireland? And if you have a pet, what is the last destructive thing they’ve done? (Notice, I didn’t ask IF they’ve ever done something destructive. With animals, that just seems to come with the territory! ; )
Much love from Nashville, friends,
Tamera
Have you ENTERED TO WIN?
April 20, 2020
Birds of a Feather
One of the hardest things for me about the current shelter-at-home orders, has been being apart from my friends. I miss them terribly, and I’ve had to find different ways of getting together with them.
A week ago, Ken and I drove to our beach and parked six feet away from our friends’ car so we could watch the sunset together. We rolled down our windows and talked and laughed as we enjoyed each other’s company from a safe distance. Friends in another state called us on FaceTime at suppertime and we enjoyed a meal together. Last Thursday I prayed with four of my fellow writers via Skype. We didn’t have to worry about social distancing since we live far apart—in California, Missouri, Michigan, Georgia, and Lyon, France. But prayer for our families and for our calling as writers forms the basis of our friendship, and being together helped ease our anxiety in these trying days. On Friday, I shared a conference call with the faithful friends in my writers’ critique group to discuss our current works-in-progress. Their feedback and friendship were life-giving, as it has been for the past 25 years that we’ve been together.
They say “birds of a feather flock together,” and in nature I think it’s mostly true. I like to hang out with friends who share common interests and hobbies with me, such as writing or biking or our Christian faith. But every now and then, you see something like this in nature:
I’m not a bird expert, but clearly, that pelican doesn’t quite fit in. Which got me thinking about my own friendships. I’ve noticed that while my friends and I share much in common, we are very different on a deeper level. I’m an introvert, many of them are extroverts; I need to think things through, some are wonderfully spontaneous; I’m reserved, the convivial ones bring much-needed laughter into my life. Over the years, the differences they’ve brought to our friendship has helped me grow in many important ways.
In my newest novel, “If I Were You,” I wanted to explore the theme of friendship. Like my friends and me, the main characters, Eve Dawson and Audrey Clarkson, are very different from each other. The novel takes place in England in a Downton Abbey-like manor house, and the obvious difference between the two friends is that Eve is Audrey’s servant. But when England becomes engulfed in the second World War, the friends’ differences become less important as they unite to fight a common enemy. Together they endure the challenges and hardships of the war and its aftermath.
And that’s what I’ve noticed about this very different war we’re currently battling. My friendships seem to be growing stronger, not weaker, even though we’re apart. No matter where we live, we’re all experiencing the same unsettling fears and deep concerns for our families and loved ones. The separation has caused me to pray harder for them, and to tell them I love them more often. When I can finally be with my friends again, the hugs and laughter we share are going to be more precious than ever before.
We’re all in this together, all around the world, and while our individual circumstances may differ, the broad outlines of what we’re enduring in this pandemic and quarantine give us much in common. I hope the memory of our shared experiences will remain and continue to unite us. Will you join with me in praying that, when this is over, our differences will be far less important than they were before? Will you pray that, as children of our Heavenly Father, we’ll remember the unity of our shared struggle? We’re all in this together.
[“If I Were You” releases June 2] http://bit.ly/3828FZS
April 19, 2020
Inspired by Scripture
This Sunday feature is brought to you by ClashEntertainment.com. You may sign up to receive a beautiful photo with scripture in your inbox each morning or view the verse each day online.
April 17, 2020
Romance Tropes: Like Them or Leave Them?
Trope. You may have heard this term tossed around a bit within the fiction-reading community. The first time I saw the word, I was like—huh? What in the world is that?
I’ve since learned that “trope” is a common plot device or theme used in the fiction-writing community. These are tried, true, and time-tested concepts that catch a reader’s interest (usually through the book blurb).
There are those who criticize tropes as being cliché or overdone. Some may complain that tropes perpetuate mediocrity in fiction. Others say that authors need to be more original and strive to break free of common devices.
However, keep in mind that tropes have been around forever and used by even the most popular of authors. Shakespeare used the trope of Forbidden Love (Romeo and Juliet). Jane Austen used the trope of Enemies to Lovers (Pride & Prejudice). Countless other examples exist. Just Google it!
The fact is, whether we like it or not, readers gravitate toward certain plot devices. The familiarity appeals to readers and hooks them time after time. And honestly, tropes are helpful in marketing books, perking the attention of new readers who might be attracted to the book simply because of the trope.
Here are some of the most common tropes in the romance genre:
Marriage of ConvenienceLove TrianglesSecret Billionaire/RoyaltyFriends to LoversEnemies to LoversStuck TogetherForbidden LoveFake RelationshipSecond ChanceSecret BabyFairy TaleOpposites AttractMail-Order Brides
What I’ve realized is that the trouble doesn’t come with using tropes. The trouble comes with not giving the trope a unique enough angle or spin. Some of the most enjoyable stories are those that breathe new life into familiar plot concepts.
From an author’s perspective, I love taking popular tropes and coming up with my own twists. As an avid romance reader, I delve into a book with the anticipation of how the author will shape the trope and hold my interest to the end.
Over on Facebook, I asked people to weigh in on their favorite tropes. For historical romance readers, the overwhelming favorite was Marriage of Convenience (and Mail-Order Brides).
With that news, I’m happy to report COWBOY FOR KEEPS, the first book of my my next historical romance series—Colorado Cowboys (releasing in January 2021) involves both the Mail-Order Bride and Marriage of Convenience tropes.
What do you think of tropes? Do you like them or not? And what is your favorite?
April 16, 2020
Reading Therapy to Relieve Pandemic Stress
I’ve been blessed to have a job that still keeps me working 8-5 during the pandemic (not the writing gig, but that’s going, too – ha!), so I have not had as much home at time as some. I have not accomplished a single spring cleaning item, nor have I organized any closets or garage shelves. What I have made time for is a little escapism through reading. Besides watching DVDs and playing board games with my grown kids who are home from college, reading is my favorite stress-reliever.
In an effort to help the reading public reduce stress and stay in a healthy frame of mind, I’m offering a giveaway. Enter to win one of four of my books by telling me which heroine best matches your coping style.
Contest runs through April 19th at midnight (Central time). Please use the form below to enter. Winner will be posted in the comments here on Monday, April 20.
What has been your favorite way to cope with stress during the pandemic?
Have you accomplished any amazing feats of reorganization around the house or checked off items that have been on the to-do list for eons?
April 15, 2020
Laughter is the Best Medicine
With everything heavy going on the in the world, my husband and I have been seeking clean, old-fashioned, laugh-out-loud comedies to help lighten our spirits. I’d forgotten how many good ones are out there! We’ve watched some old standbys as well as some we haven’t seen in ages. And we have laughed and laughed and laughed.
Here are a few we’ve watched recently—and a few waiting in the wings. Not an exhaustive list by any means, but maybe something you and your family need to get you laughing.
I confess I’ve seen this movie a bazillion times—and it always makes me laugh until I cry. Barbra Streisand, Ryan O’Neal, Madeline Kahn. Even an appearance by a very young Randy Quaid. It’s madcap mayhem at its best!
Cary Grant, Katherine Hepburn, and a leopard. What could go wrong? One of my absolute favorite movies.
More Cary Grant. I do love him in comedic roles. And this one is a doozy.
Micheal Caine and Steve Martin combine to make this an unforgettable comedy with an awesome twist at the end! Even though I know it from start to finish, the twist is always satisfying.
It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World
I don’t think I had seen this movie in probably 30 years. My guess is I watched it as a late night TV movie during my early teens. But oh my goodness! It’s long—so settle in—but funny from start to finish. How could it not be with comedic icons like Buddy Hackett, Mickey Rooney, Milton Berle, Jonathan Winters, and more!
I love so many of the live action Disney films, but this one isn’t as known as some of the others. And it should be! This is the story of a group of church ladies who bring down a gambling ring in their town. Great fun for the whole family!
Move Over, Darling/My Favorite Wife
My Favorite Wife came first, with Cary Grant as a widower about to be remarried and Irene Dunn as his lost-at-sea wife finally rescued after going missing five years earlier. This original movie is my favorite. But Move Over, Darling, the remake, 23 years later, with Doris Day and James Garner has its good points, too. Same story with lots of laughs.
P.G. Wodehouse’s Jeeves and Wooster books make me laugh out loud, but watching Hugh Laurie and Stephen Fry bring these iconic characters to life makes it even better! If you only know Hugh Laurie as House, you should check out his fully comedic side!
Where have you found needed laughter these days? Please share!
April 14, 2020
Feeling Like a Castaway?
If you feel like a castaway, stranded on a desert island about now, I can relate. I just turned in revisions to my editors today (whew!) for a novel I’ve been working long hours on, called, A Castaway in Cornwall.
Hunkering down to work on rewrites during a quarantine wouldn’t have been so different from other years, as I am usually at home chair-in-the-derriere for weeks on end when deadlines are looming. But this time did end up being different than expected, because I had planned to travel to Cornwall late March-early April to shore up setting details and fill in some research holes. (I have been to Cornwall a few times, but not to the particular area where the book is set.)
Greenaway Beach, near Trebetherick, CornwallLike many people, my husband and I had to cancel our trip including flights and hotels. I had also booked a few days with a local tour guide to take us around North Cornwall to learn more about the area. Instead of canceling our tour outright, I asked our guide (Peter Long of Elite Duchy Touring) if he would be willing to read the manuscript instead to help me catch any location-related errors and add setting details. He happily agreed (as you can imagine, his income has taken a sharp hit after everyone canceled tours). Great Britain is also on a strict lock-down, but once that’s lifted, he will also take new photos and videos for my website. A win-win, I’d say!
Old Custom House, Padstow, CornwallSo while things didn’t go according to plan, I am thankful for how they turned out. My author-friend Michelle Griep just reviewed the rewrite for me and claims A Castaway in Cornwall is her favorite book from me to date. That’s a huge relief and an answer to my prayers.
Here’s the gorgeous cover, designed by the talented Jennifer Parker of Bethany House Publishers:
What “changes of plans” have you experienced lately? Any that turned out to be a blessing?
April 13, 2020
Just for fun…
While we’ve been sheltering in these past few weeks, eleven Christian fiction authors, including several from Inspired by Life…and Fiction, got together for a Zoom chat. We had SUCH fun and thought you might enjoy our conversations too!
Here's our first Shelter-in-Place video from yesterday's conversation with 11 Christian fiction authors. Hope you can tell how much fun we had! Enjoy! Tamera Alexander Robin Lee Hatcher Becky Wade Denise Waters Hunter Julie Lessman Rachel Hauck Colleen Rhoads Coble Katherine Blackburn Reay Beth K. Vogt Cara Putman
Posted by Deborah Raney on Thursday, April 9, 2020
The conversation continued with us talking about where we’d rather be if we didn’t have to shelter in . . .
And the conversation continues with 11 Christian fiction authors sheltered-in at home. Thanks to Zoom, we had a blast chatting about life as writers in the time of corona. Hope you enjoy our conversations as much as we did!From left to right, top row: Colleen Coble, Robin Lee Hatcher, Beth Vogt, Deborah Raney; middle row: Becky Wade, Julie Lessman, Tamera Alexander, Katherine Reay; Bottom row: Denise Hunter, Cara Putman, Rachel Hauck.
Posted by Deborah Raney on Saturday, April 11, 2020
Today and tomorrow, we’ll be answering some other riveting questions about how clean our houses are, and what has been the hardest part about sheltering in. (We all admit, as authors who usually work from home, it hasn’t changed our day-to-day as much as it has for some.) You can find more videos this week on the blogs and Facebook pages of participating authors, including my Readers Group page. CLICK HERE (and if you’re not already a member of the group, simply click “Join.”)
Then, this Wednesday, we’ll be reading excerpts from our books on Facebook and Instagram. Follow your favorite authors on these accounts to hear some sneak peeks!
Here’s the schedule. A few of the readings will be live, but you’ll be able to watch most of them any time after the scheduled slot.
Instagram:
Tamera Alexander 11:30 EST
Facebook:
Denise Hunter 11:00 EST
April 12, 2020
Inspired by Scripture
A blessed Easter to our readers.This Sunday feature is brought to you by ClashEntertainment.com. You may sign up to receive a beautiful photo with scripture in your inbox each morning or view the verse each day online.
