Flora Reigada's Blog, page 10

GRAMMATICAL CRIMES I HAVE COMMITTED: THE GRANDDADDY OF THEM ALL

One click of my computer’s mouse and I was headed toward disaster.
As I put the final touches on my inspirational thriller, "The Face Behind the Veil," and about to e-mail it to my publisher, I decided to change a character’s name from Joseph to Stanley.In an instant, this global change was made throughout the 600 page, three-part document, which traces the legend of the birth veil through three generations.
That was the only change I made after the book underwent extensive editing. Confident it was error-free, I clicked the mouse and off it went. It wasn’t long before I received the galley proof to review and approve, so the printing process could begin.
Weary of the seven-year project and the tedious historical research that had gone into it, I almost didn’t review the galley. But something in me couldn’t let it go until I did. That must have been Providential.  Imagine my surprise when I discovered how that last minute name change affected a scene where the Christmas story is told. In horror, I read the following.
"Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Marywas espoused to Stanley, before they came together, she was found withchild of the Holy Ghost. Then Stanley her husband, being a just man, andnot willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her awayprivily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Stanley, thou son of David,fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost . . .. Then Stanley being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife:" (Matthew 1:18-20, 24).After getting over my initial shock, I made the necessary changes.
However, rather than globally, I did this the old-fashioned way, one at a time. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Flora invites you to look inside her books on Amazon. Published by MillerWords.
The face Behind the Veil: Historical Fiction 
https://www.amazon.com/Face-Behind-Veil-Flora-Reigada/dp/1418443646
The Castle in the Sun Series
Book 1: Love's Sweetest Revenge: Romantic-Suspensehttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0785FWH5P/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_U_x_WKI3EbXY53W5N
Book 2: Love's Sweetest Deliverance: Romantic-Suspense https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07BBFRHJT?
Where Your Heart Meets God's: Inspiration: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077X37MVX/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_U_x_9PI3Eb7NZF4TW?fbclid=IwAR0nd9Tmw-

SO, YOU WANNA BE A WRITER?

It was "Sarah's" first time at our writers' critique group. Her eyes wide with enthusiasm, the young woman sat on the edge of her seat. She appeared poised to dazzle us by reading from the book she was writing. Certainly, she believed it destined to be a bestseller.

Our group consisted of journalists, novelists, editors and beginners. We met regularly to evaluate and polish each other's writing. We divided the time, each reading aloud from a work in progress, then the rest of us offering our input. It was our policy to begin each critique with praise, before suggesting ways the story might be improved. This worked until Sarah joined us.
That meeting started out like all the others. Sitting in a circle, we each took our turn. Then Sarah's turn came.
Proudly clutching her manuscript, she cleared her throat and with a big smile, began reading. At first, I thought it was just me to whom none of it made any sense. There was no story or plot, only disconnected thoughts that went nowhere.
Sarah was still smiling when she finished and looked us over, as if waiting for the accolades. We were supposed to begin with praise, but none of us could think of even one positive thing to say. The room was as quiet as a tomb as Sarah's smile faded.
Kay, an editor known for her diplomacy, began. As gently as possible, she told our newbie the truth. Sarah did not take it well. Her eyes filled with tears.
"My husband said the story is wonderful," she blurted, sobbing. 

She then ran from the room, slamming the door behind her. Kay followed, trying to smooth things over. But it was too late. The damage was done.
After that fateful day, I would occasionally bump into Sarah. I tried speaking with her and asked about her writing, but she always brushed me off. The contempt in her face revealed dislike for me and others in the critique group. We were not worthy of her time. Nor were our opinions worthy of her consideration.
That is sad because who knows where her writing could have gone, given some attention. What she read, might have been a seed of an idea that needed the guidance of more experienced writers.
Our critique group would have helped Sarah along her journey. And writing is always a journey, often one that is long and hard.
It is likely that Sarah's husband thought he was being kind by telling her what she wanted to hear, rather than what she needed to hear. She believed him and it impeded her development.
However, I know from experience that the soul of any serious writer is battle-scarred from criticism, harsh editors, brutal critiques and rejection of our work. Still, we go on. We keep writing, learning and hopefully, improving. Of necessity, we develop a thick skin like our friend to the right
As far as I know, Sarah's work never went anywhere."Of all sad words of tongue or pen, the saddest are these, 'It might have been."
A journalist and novelist, Flora invites you to check out the first two books in her Castle in the Sun, romantic suspense series. Book 1, Love's Sweetest Revenge: 
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0785FWH5P/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_U_x_WKI3EbXY53
Book 2, Love's Sweetest Deliverance. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07BBFRHJT?






Please also check out Flora's Devotional, Where Your Heart Meets God's.             https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077X37MVX/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_U_x_

WILL LIZ DIE IN THE FOREST?

 

Excerpt from Chapter 1, Love's Sweetest Revenge Where could Liz run in the vast forest?
Liz forced her thoughts back to the sights and sounds of the forest. She realized something had changed. The forest was quiet … too quiet. The wind had stilled. Birds were no longer singing. Liz paused, her eyes darting one way, then another. As a cloud moved over the sun, a sense of danger crept over the landscape.Suddenly, a snapping twig shattered the stillness and a flock of birds launched into the sky, their chirping and flapping wings fading away. Then, a growl seemed to shake the ground beneath Liz.
She froze, almost afraid to breathe. Is this how it’s going to end for me?

Fear tingled up and down Liz’s spine as her eyes drifted to a clearing, where a black bear was sniffing the air.

She saw two cubs, partly concealed by brush. Her heart pounded in her chest.

Steve’s warnings screamed across her mind. Bears have a keen sense of smell. If you see one, don’t try to run away. Back away slowly. Yell at the bear. Firmly tell it to leave. Get out of here! Especially beware of a mother bear with cubs.

Then, in one horrible moment, the bear charged in her direction. In a blind panic Liz also ran, forgetting everything Steve had told her. Though the episode lasted scarcely a minute, time seemed to move in slow motion.

What will happen to Liz? Find out more in Love's Sweetest Revenge, first in the Castle in the Sun, romantic-suspense series.  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0785FWH5P/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_U_x_WKI3EbXY53

Book 2, Love's Sweetest Deliverance:Even as Liz revels in her engagement to Carlos and celebrates Christmas with him, she can feel  her ex-husband's cold, blue eyes watching her every move. How far will he go? https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07BBFRHJT?

IS THIS HOW IT'S GOING TO END FOR ME?

 

Excerpt from Chapter 1, Love's Sweetest Revenge Where could Liz run in the vast forest?
Liz forced her thoughts back to the sights and sounds of the forest. She realized something had changed. The forest was quiet … too quiet. The wind had stilled. Birds were no longer singing. Liz paused, her eyes darting one way, then another. As a cloud moved over the sun, a sense of danger crept over the landscape.Suddenly, a snapping twig shattered the stillness and a flock of birds launched into the sky, their chirping and flapping wings fading away. Then, a growl seemed to shake the ground beneath Liz.
She froze, almost afraid to breathe. Is this how it’s going to end for me?Fear tingled up and down Liz’s spine as her eyes drifted to a clearing, where a black bear was sniffing the air. She saw two cubs, partly concealed by brush. Her heart pounded in her chest.Steve’s warnings screamed across her mind. Bears have a keen sense of smell. If you see one, don’t try to run away. Back away slowly. Yell at the bear. Firmly tell it to leave. Get out of here! Especially beware of a mother bear with cubs.Then, in one horrible moment, the bear charged in her direction. In a blind panic Liz also ran, forgetting everything Steve had told her. Though the episode lasted scarcely a minute, time seemed to move in slow motion.

What will happen to Liz? Find out more in Love's Sweetest Revenge, first in the Castle in the Sun, romantic-suspense series.  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0785FWH5P/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_U_x_WKI3EbXY53

Book 2, Love's Sweetest Deliverance:Even as Liz revels in her engagement to Carlos and celebrates Christmas with him, she can feel  her ex-husband's cold, blue eyes watching her every move. How far will he go? https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07BBFRHJT?

LOVE'S SWEETEST TRUTH: COMING SOON

Our Past Is Past--Or Is It?

Unaware of what awaits them, Liz and Carlos are living their dream. They built a lavish new home with a pool, a baby is on the way and they are deeply in love. The radiant Florida sky seems to glow with their joy. An artist, Liz captures its beauty in a painting.

All seems perfect until a secret leaks out about Carlos’ womanizing past—and everyone seems to know but the happy couple. Even a little child has overheard and she can’t stop talking. Could the secret cast a cloud over Liz and Carlos' sunny life? A dark area in Liz’s painting seems like a warning of the gathering storm. When the truth rains down, lives are forever changed.

Find out more about "the secret" in Love's Sweetest Truth, Book 3 in the Castle in the Sun, romantic-suspense series, coming soon from MillerWords.

Books 1 and 2 available from MillerWords.

Book 1: Love's Sweetest Revenge:  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0785FWH5P/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_U_x_WKI3EbXY53

Book 2: Love's Sweetest Deliverance:  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07BBFRHJT?

 

Jewels That Sparkle With Wisdom and Enlightenment

BOOK REVIEW BY FRAN Where Your Heart Meets God's
This lovely devotional will greet you each morning with a precious jewel. That's what "Where Your Heart Meets God's" did for me. I was greeted by jewels that sparkled with both wisdom and enlightenment. Just as physical jewels have various facets and distinctions, each of Flora Reigada's devotions are novel and hold fresh insight. The author first draws you in with a brief Bible verse, expounds on it, and concludes with a Pearl to Ponder and a Love Nugget. They join together to awaken new views of the ageless Scriptures and to draw the reader closer to the Holy Spirit. Even the cover joins with the interior to stimulate the reader's imagination with the well-chosen symbol of a string of lustrous pearls. Since I can't possibly choose a favorite, I'll close by saying that "Where Your Heart Meets God's" would be an inspirational addition to your daily devotions, and would make an attractive and useful choice as a gift for friends and loved ones.
FIND OUT MORE https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077X37MVX/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_U_x_

TWO TICKETS TO PARADISE

 Liz's husband had left with a twenty-something plaything and Liz hopes to forget her troubles in the beauty of New York State's lush but lonely forest. But when a bear charges out from the trees, Liz runs for her life. 

How could this dangerous encounter possibly lead Liz to an ancient stone wall and a locket filled with secrets? Following its clues, takes Liz and best friend Rosa (a young widow) to Florida, a castle in the sun and romance with brothers, Carlos and Jack.
But can Liz's wounded heart trust again? And can anyone take the place of Rosa's beloved Raul?
In all unfolds in Love's Sweetest Revenge, first in the Castle in the Sun, romantic-suspense series.
Find out more:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0785FWH5P/ref=cm_s

NEW RELEASE!! In Book 2, Liz has found new life and love with Carlos in a posh oceanfront condo, in the shadow of St. Augustine, Florida's legendary castle. 
Rosa and Carlos' Army-hero brother, Jack, are also warming to each other in the tropical sun.
But Liz's ex-husband, Steve, cannot bear to see her happy and "Hurricane Steve" is on his way with a tempest of trouble.
Can he sneak past Jack and his motorcycle buddies to accomplish his evil? And how does a tiny acorn lead to a big surprise? It all unfolds in Love's Sweetest Deliverance, second in the Castle in the Sun romantic-suspense series.
Find out more. 
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07

SLIDESHOW: AN ENCOUNTER WITH DESTINY

 

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/e/2PACX-1vSC-fIbo9H5gmEiXZqIeqUtIaJIasK8lqN-VPfB-itjFzkWFC9hlz5QhkptcwHie9c-p3pXW9DYZ0CM/pub?start=true&loop=false&delayms=5000

MEET A HERO

Soon after graduating from high school in St. Augustine, Florida, Jack Martin enlisted in the United States Army. He served 15 years, rising to the rank of Master Sergeant. The many ribbons on his uniform, some for heroism and leadership, show his dedicated service.Now a civilian in his mid-thirties, he witnessed atrocities while serving several tours of duty in Middle East hot spots. A vehicle he was driving with fellow service members struck an IED.  (Improvised Explosive Device) 
As the senior enlisted man and trained in first aid, Jack tended to the others' wounds. Securing a tourniquet around what was left of a young soldier's leg, he saved his life. 
Following another incident, Jack comforted a 20 year-old soldier who bled out in his arms. But Jack has been in kill or be killed situations and he had prevailed.His girlfriend Rosa is tough enough for him, but tender enough too. She comforts him when he awakens from nightmares about his troops being ambushed and blood on his hands.


In addition to being a tall, handsome much-decorated veteran, Jack is a motorcycle enthusiast, a hard worker and the fiercely protective father of a teenage daughter. He can fix or build just about anything.
I told these things to veterans at a VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) post, while going about my job as a newspaper reporter, gathering information for a story.
"We want to meet him," the VFW members said "Tell him to come here. We can help him with his (PTSD) Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. We understand."

My eyes widened in surprise. Without intending to do so, I had convinced them Jack is a living, breathing person. But he only exists in the pages of my "Castle in the Sun" romantic-suspense book series. He is one of four central characters. Others are his girlfriend, Rosa, his brother Carlos and Carlos' fiance, Elizabeth. (Liz)
At the VFW, my husband/photographer, Dan, shook his head. "You talk about your characters like they're real," he groaned.

But in a sense, Jack is real. We can see him in the faces of 540,000-plus veterans whom Wounded Warrior Homes states have been diagnosed with PTSD. 

"Post Traumatic Stress Disorder can be described as a mental health condition that's triggered by a trauma, whether experiencing or seeing it. The symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, depression and confusion," the organization states on their website.
Find out more: 
Wounded Warrior Homes: http://www.woundedwarriorhomes.org/Veterans PTSD Crisis Hotline: 866-382-2287
The soldiers at the VFW wanted to meet Jack and I hope you will too—and the other characters too, in the pages of  Love's Sweetest Revenge and Love's Sweetest Deliverance, Books 1 and 2, in the Castle in the Sun romantic-suspense series published by MillerWords. 
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0785FWH5P/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_U_x_WKI3EbXY53
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07BBFRHJT?fbclid=IwAR336mGPTHieznX6dRte2

WASH A CAR WITH A WEDDING GOWN?

Before taking off with Gloria, a twenty-something plaything, Steve verbally assaults his wife, Liz. 

"I wasted my youth on you. You've let yourself go. Look at you! I don't even want you anymore."
Seeing the rage in Liz's eyes, Steve bolts for the door as she hurls a vase at him. Barely missing his head, the vase smashes into the wall.

He mocks her. "You broke it! I was going to give it to Gloria, along with your wedding gown. It's just her size and you'll never squeeze your fat butt into it again.""I'll wash the car with that dress before I give it to you and your tramp," Liz yells back.Although Steve has redeeming qualities, such as being a good father and provider for the twin sons he had with Liz, his hurtful words and actions keep Liz in emotional chains. This continues after she begins a relationship with Carlos Martín, a brilliant and  handsome international linguist, who has flown aboard Air Force One and dined in the White House.He says he loves her, but Steve said he loved her too. And Carlos has wined and dined beautiful, bejeweled woman at embassies around  the world. Can Liz free herself from the chains that bind her, to surrender her heart? Find out in Love's Sweetest Revenge Book 1 in the Castle in the Sun romantic-suspense series and Love's Sweetest Deliverance, Book 2.
"A lovely story with a mystery,"
a reviewer wrote.
  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0785FWH5P/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_U_x_WKI3EbX 



"The outside world slips away as you read,"
a reviewer wrote.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07BBFRHJT?fbclid=IwAR336mGPTHieznX6dRte2