Julie Arduini's Blog, page 24

Prodigal Lives by Carol McClain

Prodigal Lives is the exciting sequel to Borrowed Lives. Tell us a little about Prodigal Lives.

Life keeps piling problems on Meredith Jaynes. She loses her second foster child—one she was scheduled to adopt. Then Parker Snow refuses to marry her. With only her goats and artisan soap to support her, life will get no better.

If she is honest, though, she still has Crystal. Her funny, happy, loveable toddler makes the sun shine and reminds her of the never-failing love of God.

Pearl Solomon loves her life with her grandfather Guy, but every one of her triumphs is overshadowed by her sisters’ lives. With Mama Meredith, they live a life she envies. Because of her jealousy, she refuses to contact them.

Years later, life for both families twist down paths they do not wish to travel. Pearl knows she’s lost what was most precious in life but has no means of fixing things. Left to her own devices, she spirals out of control.

Meredith finds it harder to mask the despair infertility has brought to her life.

Both families believe they must reconcile themselves to their fates as reality shatters their dreams unless they dig deep for the promise of love.

Will I be confused with the plot if I haven’t read book 1, Borrowed Lives?

I believe book 2 stands alone, but you’d miss out on the rich experience of reading Borrowed Lives.

What inspired you to write Prodigal Lives?

For many years, I worked with drug addicts. To this day, many close friends still labor in the ministry.

Addiction is brutal. Few make permanent inroads to sobriety. The hardest issue with addiction is the children. Innocents are born addicted. Many have long-term issues in health, emotional stability, and their own dependence on alternative substances.

Our labor with those afflicted have seen success through faith in Christ. Then, with the non-judgmental love of mentors, and finally, with the addicts’ own recognition that she made wrong choices and must change.

Following the family from Borrowed Lives, we see how each of the children who were too young to realize their biological parents’ errors, battle the consequences of their parents’ mistakes.

How would you describe your writing style?

I believe in redemption. Although Jesus cleanses us from our sins, the scars linger. If we cling to Christ, our lives become productive, happy, and fulfilled. None of us have fallen so far that Jesus’s love can’t redeem us. Sometimes I shudder when I think of horrific acts people commit. My first reaction is the person should burn forever in hell. That isn’t Jesus’s attitude. He’s a God of redemption. He created beauty and wants each of us to return to that beauty.

Humor influences my outlook on most things. Throughout my novels, satire or comedy or wittiness find their way. These traits act like a spoiled child—I can try to tamp them down, but wit will have its will.

Finally, I paint with language. Metaphors and figurative language dance on my pages breathing life into settings and characters.

Obviously, I don’t overdo things. That would make me a bad, bad writer. And I’m a good one. Just ask my mama.

How does setting influence your work?

Setting often asserts itself first, then the story must follow its demands. My last three novels have been set in Campbell County, Tennessee. I moved here seven years ago and find the area refreshing and exotic.

Addiction and foster care seen through my church family influenced Borrowed Lives, Book 1 of the Treasured Lives series. Deciding to write about what I knew, I set the book in my adopted community. Then the culture had to motivate each character and what happens to them.

What is your background?

I grew up on Long Island, New York. In my twenties, I moved to the northern border. I lived so close to Canada, half the time I thought of myself as Canadian. Here I taught high school English—my favorite class being English Language and Composition. I am, at heart, a style nerd.

After I retired, the cold and politics of New York moved us to Tennessee seven years ago. When we relocated, my husband, Neil, promised me I could have goats. Then he thought better of his promise. In order to enjoy the sweet, little bovids, I had my protagonist in Borrowed Lives, raise them (I tend to become my characters and live through them—on top of being erudite, I’m weird). Neil saw my dreams and being the softy he is, let me have two. As I write, one of my goats Buttercup is pregnant and will have her kid on April 25th—if I did my math right which is always a crapshoot.

Where can I purchase your books and keep up with you?

Prodigal Lives is available only on Amazon at this moment. You can purchase the book at:

I’d love to keep in touch with my readers and also let them know the latest news. You can sign up for my newsletter and blog at:

Carolmcclain.com

McClain’s always been a storyteller. As a child, she composed plays and forced her friends to act. She’d help rally the neighborhood kids and together they’d re-enact their favorite TV shows. Sadly, when the boys played, she never got to be the heroine–just the damsel in distress. Since then she’s discovered the benefits of needing rescue, and so it’s a role she prefers.

McClain lived most of her life in rural, upstate New York where taught high school English for more than thirty years. After years of teaching students how to write, she turned her attention to her own novels.

You can connect with her at carolmcclain.com or on Facebook or Twitter.

Fiction Finder April 2022 New Releases

April 2022 New Releases

More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website

CONTEMPORARY

A Heart to Cherish by Judith McNees — veryone leaves…including God. That’s how Julia Price feels after years of being passed over in foster homes. All she has ever wanted is a family, but when she finds herself pregnant and homeless, her dreams seem further away than ever. Strait-laced good guy Alex Morgan has waited his entire life for the woman God has prepared for him. When he makes it his mission to help Julia, he wonders whether she could be that woman. But why would God lead him to a pregnant non-believer?As Julia struggles with issues of self-worth and trust, can she open her heart to both God and Alex? And can Alex trust their relationship to the One who holds Julia in His hand? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Every Day Filled with Hope by Shelia W. Stovall — Nineteen years ago, a powerful and influential man assaulted former runway model Casey Bledsoe, resulting in an unwanted pregnancy. Casey’s biggest regret is allowing fear to influence her to give up her baby for adoption. (General Contemporary from Elk Lake Publishing)

If You Light My Way by Jerusha Agen — Can she light up his life when hers goes dark? Oriana Sanders shouldn’t be drawn to Nicanor Pessoa. The handsome, brooding tango dancer couldn’t ever be interested in an elementary school teacher. He reminds her of her inner-city students—troubled but full of potential, if only she can point him to the joy of the Lord. Nicanor has known many beautiful women, but none with the vibrant zest for life that emanates from Oriana. She attracts him like a moth to a flame, making him want to forget the secrets and guilt that have burdened him for years. But how can he forget, when the worst secret of all is the one Oriana won’t be able to forgive? Their growing feelings for each other seem unstoppable until they face a darkness that threatens to tear them apart. Can God help them forgive the unforgivable and bring them through the shadows into the light? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

The Heart of a Cowboy by Elsie Davis — Rusty’s career as a bronc rider is over. Figuring out his next steps in life is more challenging than riding a bull for eight seconds. Surely there were better people more deserving of the new heart he received, people who had more to give back to society than a washed-up rodeo cowboy. Courtney is already struggling with the death of her husband, and the “temporarily relieved of duty” decree from her assistant chef position is too much to handle on her own. The decision to move home is not an easy one, but she doesn’t have much choice. At least not until the insurance company quits balking at paying out on the life insurance policy. When her truck breaks down just outside of Crossroads Creek, it’s Rusty to the rescue. Fate has brought them together, but the truth may not be something either one can handle. Will they rely on faith and trust their own hearts for the answers, or will they run from the past and destroy any chance at a future of happiness together? (Contemporary Romance from Sweet Romance Publishing)

The Bookseller’s Promise by Beth Wiseman — Yvonne Wilson makes the trek from Texas to Indiana with just one goal in mind: to convince Amishman Jake Lantz to sell her client a rare book from his collection. But Jake is as strong-willed as Yvonne. On the eve of his grandfather’s death, Jake vowed never to sell the book, and he intends to keep that promise. But he can’t say more than that, having never read it and not knowing why it was so dear to his grossdaadi. (General Contemporary from HarperCollins Christian Publishing (Thomas Nelson and Zondervan))

General Historical:

Claiming Her Legacy by Linda Goodnight — Frontier women don’t ride off alone to track an outlaw—not even women as capable as tomboy spinster Willa Malone. But Willa desperately needs the bounty money offered for her father’s killer if she’s to keep their homestead and take care of her sisters. That means she needs an expert tracker’s help. Gideon Hartley has the skill, but the handsome trail guide also has a troubling secret…Gideon has spent years trying to numb his pain with whiskey. Little by little, their quest—and Willa’s belief in him—is restoring the sense of purpose he thought he’d lost. Journeying into the heart of danger, they’ll have to face down the past together if they hope to protect their future… (Historical/Women’s Fiction from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

Historical Romance:

A Strike to the Heart by Danielle Grandinetti — Wisconsin, 1933―When a routine mission becomes an ambush that kills his team, Craft Agency sniper Miles Wright determines to find the persons responsible and protect the woman he rescued. But the fierce independence that led Lily Moore to leave her family’s dairy business for the solitary life of a dog trainer and the isolation of her farm don’t make that easy. Neither does his unwanted attraction to her. Meanwhile, escalating incidents confirm that she’s far from safe. Lily fears letting the surprisingly gentle retired marine into her life almost as much as she fears whoever is threatening her. As Wisconsin farmers edge toward another milk strike, one that will surely turn violent, it becomes clear that the plot against Lily may be part of a much larger conspiracy. When the search for her abductor leads close to home, she must decide whether to trust her family or the man who saved her life. (Historical Romance from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas)

The Marquis’s Pursuit by Lorri Dudley — She’s desperate to keep her secret hidden, but he’s a determined Marquis.

As the son of a duke, Maxwell Oliver Weld, Marquis of Daventry, is allowed entry into the finest of London’s ballrooms, access to political figures, and advice from the best physicians. Yet, his wealth and contacts won’t heal his friend, Charlie, who’s dying from consumption. Hopeful for a miracle, Max persuades Charlie to sail across the Atlantic to stay in the Artesian Hotel on the island of Nevis and bathe in its famous healing springs. Max’s optimism is washed in doubt as the truth unravels about the hotel, its hot springs, and the beautiful caretaker. The blaze of Evelyn Mairi Sheraton’s fiery side has long since been snuffed out. Hunted by a vengeful man from her past, only fortitude and the island’s sanctuary have kept Evelyn alive. She will do whatever it takes to keep her precious secret safe, even work for the demeaning Artesian Hotel owner, Edward Rousseau. However, when a jaunty marquis and his ailing friend arrive, sparks ignite, but Evelyn fears the revealing of her secrets will burn her to ash. (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)

Mystery:

Persian Blue Puzzle by Susan Page Davis — Someone’s broken into Miss Louanne’s house. Campbell McBride and her father Bill have moved their home and detective business into an old Victorian house. Their new neighbors bring in unexpected cases for True Blue Investigations to unravel. While helping Miss Louanne look for her missing cat, Campbell learns of other suspicious activities in Murray. Another neighbor tells the detectives about a stranger in town who’s peddling an investment plan. They aren’t sure any crimes have been committed, but they’re intrigued enough for Campbell to visit a psychic along with police detective Keith Fuller’s mom and to start checking up on the financier. Things heat up when a customer threatens the psychic and then she vanishes. (Mystery from Scrivenings Press)

The Souls of Lost Lake by Jaime Jo Wright — To save the innocent, they must face an insidious evil. Wren Blythe has long enjoyed living in the Northwoods of Wisconsin, helping her father with ministry at a youth camp. But when a little girl in the area goes missing, an all-out search ensues, reviving the decades-old campfire story of Ava Coons, the murderess who is believed to still roam the forest. Joining the search, Wren stumbles upon the Coonses’ cabin ruins and a sinister mystery she is determined to unearth. In 1930, Ava Coons has spent the last several years carrying the mantle of mystery since the day she emerged from the woods as a thirteen-year-old girl, spattered with blood, dragging a logger’s ax. She has accepted she will never remember what happened to her family, whose bodies were never found, and that the people of Tempter’s Creek will always blame her for their violent deaths. And after a member of the town is murdered, and another goes missing, rumors spread that Ava’s secret is perhaps more malicious than previously imagined. (Mystery from Bethany House (Baker) Publishing)

Speculative Fiction/Fantasy:

The Girl With Stars in Her Eyes by Dawn Ford — Eighteen-year-old servant girl Tambrynn is haunted by more than her unusual silver hair and the star-shaped pupils in her eyes. Her uncontrollable ability to call objects leads the wolves who savagely murdered her mother right to her door. When she’s fired and outcast during a snowstorm, her carriage wrecks and she’s forced to find refuge in an abandoned cottage. There, her life is upended when the magpie who’s stalked her for ten years transforms into a man, Lucas. He’s her Watcher and they’re from a different kingdom. His job is to keep her safe from her father, an evil mage, who wants to steal her abilities, turn her into one of his undead beasts, and become immortal himself. Can they make it to the magical passageway and get to their home kingdom in time for Tambrynn to thwart her father’s malicious plans? Or will Tambrynn’s unique magic doom them all? (Speculative Fiction/Fantasy from Scrivenings Press)

Thriller/Suspense/Romance:

Inheritance of Secrets by Robin Patchen — “I didn’t do right by your mother. Or by you. Find her and do what I never had the courage to do.” Spoken between wheezing breaths, the deathbed words of Aspen Kincaid’s father shook her to the core. He’d led her to believe that the mystery of her mother’s disappearance was unsolvable. Apparently, her father had known more than he’d ever let on. He’s been lying to her all her life. When Aspen inherits a house in New Hampshire—a house she hadn’t known Dad owned—she travels thousands of miles, desperate to do as her father asked—find her mother. But some of the residents of Coventry seem less than thrilled to learn Jane Kincaid’s daughter is back and digging into things that should remain buried forever. Garrett’s renovations of the secluded old house on the mountain should be the next step in his contracting career, but Aspen’s arrival in town stirs up old animosities he hadn’t known existed. All he wants is to complete the job, hoping it’ll open up new opportunities. But some people expect Garrett’s help to keep an eye on Aspen’s activities. How can he honor his beautiful, vulnerable client and remain loyal to the people who need his help? (Thriller/Suspense/Romance, independently published)

Plus check out these recent additions to Fiction Finder published within the past month:

 

  By the Sweet Gum by Ane Mulligan, She’s bound by duty. He’s tethered to a dream. (Historical Romance)

 

 

  The Do-Over by Bethany Turner, Sometimes dreams come true. Other times, the best outcome begins with an epic fail. (Contemporary Romance)

 

 

  Pilgrim by Brian Shotton, A door dividing life from death draws Scott into a deadly trap. Can he save his friends before fate forces him through? (Thriller/Suspense Supernatural)

 

 

  Love’s Escape by Carrie Fancett Pagels, The son of a funeral home owner and his friend, a sea captain, transport the women they love, two enslaved women from Virginia plantations, North. (Historical Romance)

 

 

  Home Run Hunter by Cindy M. Amos, Full of positive enthusiasm, Lena Hart works for the promo team at the ballpark and encourages trouble-shooting intern Gage Landers to find contentment in the day, not chase some far-off dream. (Contemporary Romance)

 

 

  Wounded Soul by Sheridan Lee, Life often derails well-laid plans. Can she achieve her dreams after everything crumbles? (General Contemporary)

 

Love Song by Linda Maran

Sandra Mason’s decision to move forward despite misgivings, leads to the unveiling of the alluring man beneath the glittery facade that the music industry has created for its fans and profits. She learns that this label isn’t one that the former folksy singer, turned pop star, identifies with. Gregory Pratt’s humble nature clashes with the pedestal his public has placed him on.

The special clandestine times, where love sparked and similar values ushered forth, tempts Sandra Mason to give her heart fully. But her wariness of entering a world that once deceived and hurt her as the fiancé of a top fashion designer, gives her pause. And this is a whole other level of fame with various dangers lurking at every turn.

Gregory Pratt has met the down-to-earth sweet woman he’d prayed for. But will Sandra be able to withstand bodyguards, chasing fans, a paternity suit, threats, the paparazzi, and a manager who is displeased with Gregory’s missed rehearsals to make time for her?

Love Song, is a story of tender romance, suspense, challenges, and trust in God’s plan, amidst a world of fame, competition and superficial adulation.

Linda Maran is the author of The Stranger, an Amish romance novel by White Rose Publishing, Anita da Napoli, her mother’s memoir, and the self-help book, Confronting the Bully of OCD, plus numerous articles. A drummer herself, Maran has been among musicians for most of her life. Her warm and positive message is what draws her readers.

For more information about Linda Maran and her books, visit her at:

LoveSongBlog                                   LindaMaranBlog                           Twitter: @LIM52

Looking at You, 52

Each year I share my thoughts as I celebrate another birthday. This year, 52. I don’t even remember much of 51. Turning 50 was anticlimactic because I really wanted to enter the decade with a bang. Instead, the country shut down and it was so new no one was doing the drive-by celebrations.

So, what’s 52 to me?

This year my God-given theme is reclaim. I get that 52 is a non-year celebration wise, but given last year was so rough and I never got to enjoy 50 with anyone outside my house, I’m re-claiming 50. I often talk myself out of doing things, but not this year. I reserved an event with two friends I serve closely with who have had my back in the last year.

I’m also having red velvet cake. Let me elaborate. I will be making and eating my mom’s famous red velvet cake. This cake is so good I refuse to eat anyone else’s. I’ve tried before, and I’m always disappointed. Her version was so beloved she sent it to her nephew in Afghanistan. Although my presentation isn’t as good as hers, I have mastered the taste. This seems like the year to enjoy a piece. Or 3.

Other than that, 52 holds hope. For my family, this is the year our youngest graduates high school and starts college. After all she’s been through with her health, what a cause for celebration. Our son gets married. I prayed for his wife before I could even conceive. It’s such a praise to see God’s faithfulness. Tom and I will take a trip back to Lake Placid as a delayed 25th anniversary trip.

For my writing, I’m so excited. I feel like previous works were my training ground and this new series, Surrendering Hearts, is the real deal. The idea came from watching This is Us and wondering how did the showrunner and writers keep track of all the details, and, my sister asking me about writing a story involving unique birth stories. The Hart sextuplets each get their own book with a surrender story. They are trying to find their identity apart from their siblings and discover a love as great as what their parents shared.

Jordyn is up first with Anchored Hearts. She wrecks me. As the oldest sextuplet, she’s taken on a leadership role within the family. Now that they are grown, it’s time to give that up, and she’s scared. Control is important to her but as life spirals, Jordyn’s faced with letting go. Her journey is one I relate to way more than I thought.

I have a prequel story featuring patriarch Paul Hart and his neighbor, Shelly Hoffman called Unwrapping Hearts. There’s also a sneak peek of Anchored Hearts. Both are free downloads

Birthdays are also a time where I reflect on what’s going well, and what needs improvement. Compared to last year, everything is improving. My focus is back so I’ve returned to working out. I rarely drink pop now, and that’s HUGE. I’ve cut down on my chocolate consumption. These are huge victories for me. The frustration is I don’t see a lot of change on the scale, but at 52, there’s a lot of grace. I realize what challenges I have, and I try not to take advantage of them and invite gluttony into my schedule. It’s hard. I often struggle with what I see in the mirror. Yet, my passion is to make sure the girls I mentor understand how beautiful they are. Well, that truth needs to cover me.

I don’t see me starting anything new at 52, but that’s God’s deal to work out. I’m not thinking about trying a new craft or project beyond releasing Anchored Hearts, researching Repairing Hearts, and starting that book. I do have a goal not to travel much beyond Lake Placid. Last year I was on the road most of the year. It took a lot out of me and I’m still recovering from that. I love being home.

I sense there’s a lot I will see this year that will be things I prayed about in the past. Some of it will be easy, and some not, but my job will to encourage. Honestly, that won’t be as easy as it sounds. So far everything I’ve prayed about and shared with loved ones has come to pass, and they weren’t on the same page. I see that happening on a huge scale, and there will be masses, I believe, who will need encouragement even though they rejected prayers and encouragement in the past. Ah, 52 will give me maturity, right?

So that’s where I’m at. Gray hair. Huge bags under my eyes. Menopause alive and well. Recovering. Reclaiming. Writing. Celebrating. Learning. Praying. I’m ready for you, 52!

Finding Hope through Love’s Lost Star

Finding Hope through Love’s Lost Star by guest blogger Caitlin M. Smith

The past can be a pesky fly, relentlessly buzzing in our ears. It tries to define us, claiming that we can never escape the people we once were. We can’t start fresh, and we can never be free from mistakes we’ve made.

This is what Cecelia Burbin [Cece] experiences in my debut romantic suspense novel, Love’s Lost Star. Cece’s life was one of abuse, pain, and crime until the day that everything changed. In this inspirational story, Cece’s past comes back to haunt her, interrupting the joy of her new life. The timing of this interruption couldn’t be worse: the night before her wedding.

Check out the book blurb below:

Cece Burbin thought she knew what love was—people using you to get what they wanted. Until she met Jason Porter. But on what should have been the happiest day of their lives, Cece wakes up on a riverbank cold, alone, and in pain. After realizing she lost her voice, Cece becomes desperate to find a way to communicate with someone that she needs help. Freeing herself, she sets off in search of the only man she has truly loved. But as she struggles to find her way back home, her past quickly begins to creep back. The gang she thought she had left behind was never that far away, and the crimes she has committed are coming back to haunt her. Can God truly love and forgive her for all she has done?

Jason is just as frantic to find his missing bride. But when he receives a note saying she left him for another man, his world is shattered. How had he missed her change of heart? Jason struggles to trust God in this heartbreak, battling uncertainty about the future he thought he had. But when he meets a strange woman who claims to be a private investigator, he discovers a clue that could change everything. Unaware that time is running out, the abandoned bridegroom sets off in search of love’s lost star.

Love’s Lost Star is a story of shame, forgiveness, and God’s unconditional love. It is one of fresh starts and new beginnings. If you’re looking for hope, or are feeling like you’ll never break free from your past, I encourage you to pick up Love’s Lost Star. A fresh start is possible, and it can begin today.

Caitlin M. Smith graduated from Lock Haven University with a degree in Secondary Education—English. After working in schools, she took her passion for teaching to the fitness world, then to the dental industry, where she spent time training and mentoring new business team members. In 2017, she left her job as a Practice Manager of Operations to pursue her career as an author.

When it comes to genre, Caitlin’s writing includes inspirational romantic suspense, allegorical fantasy, and non-fiction self-help. She enjoys equipping others for success and seeks to honor God in all she does. Through her books, Caitlin aims to inspire hope, provoke thought, and demonstrate the power of God’s unconditional love. When not rendezvousing with her fictional characters, you may find her spending time with her husband, exercising, or relaxing with an ice-cold glass of diluted orange juice.

Newsletter: Caitlin M. Smith Newsletter Sign-Up

Website: Caitlin M. Smith – Inspirational Author & Speaker (caitlinmsmith.com)

Facebook: Caitlin M. Smith – Author | Facebook

Twitter: Caitlin Smith on Twitter

Instagram: @caitlin_m_smith 

Goodreads: Author of Love’s Lost Star (goodreads.com)

Amazon Author Page: Caitlin M. Smith: Books, Biography, Kindle

Claiming Annie’s Heart by Judythe Morgan

CLAIMING ANNIE’S HEART

What was the spark for the story idea?

Two things gave me the story idea. One, both my grandmothers trace their roots to Ireland. They didn’t talk much about Ireland. Two, I went there, and the magic of the Emerald Isle captured my heart.

Traveling around the isle and talking to the Irish, I quickly learned about the history of what we call Ireland and learned it is two countries.

The Cliff Notes version for those who aren’t familiar: the island started as a single entity. After bitter fighting and political maneuvering with the United Kingdom, the island was partitioned in 1921 into Northern Ireland, which is still a part of the UK, and the Irish Free State or Ireland.

Many Irishmen were unhappy. Some still are. They wanted a united Ireland and full independence. Violence erupted again in the 1960s and continued through the 90s.

The ceasefire of 1994 and the Good Friday Agreement of 1998, along with the rebranding of the Orangemen parades in Belfast and Northern Ireland counties, has helped to reduce flare-ups.

I made one trip to Ireland during the Orangemen parades and saw how memories of The Troubles are still fresh for those personally affected. I decided to use that connection in Annie’s story.

On another trip, I visited an Irish girls’ boarding school where I experienced one of those rare writer moments—a character sprang fully formed into my head, commanding me to tell her story. That character was Annie Foster, the heroine of Claiming Annie’s Heart.

The published bookblends what Annie wanted, and the suspense element centered around The Troublesthat I wanted. I hope readers enjoy Claiming Annie’s Heart as much as I did when creating a story that started with ancestral roots and a love of the country from many trips there.

BLURB:

An Irish Love Story

Annie Foster stays in Ireland after boarding school to nanny a widower’s infant daughter. Five years later, the widower proposes.

Weeks before the wedding, Chad Jones, her first love, arrives in Belfast on an undercover assignment probing her fiancé’s connection with IRA terrorists. Chad’s determined to change Annie’s mind because he’s never stopped loving her.

But Annie still believes he deserted her. She’s moved on without him. Can he reclaim her heart before it’s too late?

BUY LINKS;

KINDLE AMAZON (US): https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00O6BOEPQ/

KINDLE AMAZON (UK): http://www.amazon.co.uk/Claiming-Annies-Heart-judythe-morgan-ebook/dp/B00O6BOEPQ/

PAPERBACK AMAZON (US): https://www.ama zon.com/Claiming-Annies-Heart-judythe-morgan/dp/098940367X/

AUTHOR BIO:

An Army brat then an Army wife, Judythe Morgan has seen a lot of this big world. Her crazy life as a mother to three, schoolteacher, an antique dealer, former mayor’s wife, and sometimes church pianist have given her plenty of story material.

Add an Old English sheepdog named Finnegan MacCool and the possibilities are endless.

You’ll find her characters are vivid. Her settings authentic. Her stories award-winning. Besides fiction, she writes a weekly blog at www.judythewriter.com

Sign up for her free newsletter at https://judythemorgan.com/  to keep up with her latest release news.

SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS:

Website https://judythemorgan.com/  

Blog https://judythewriter.com/

Twitter https://twitter.com/Judythe2   

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JudytheMorgan/

Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6450879.Judythe_Morgan

BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/profile/judythe-morgan

Gold Rush Bride Tegan by Linda Shenton Matchett

The Story behind the Story Gold Rush Bride Tegan

By Linda Shenton Matchett

More than likely, you’ve heard of the California gold rush that began in 1848. Word spread around the world, and by the following year tens of thousands of people from around the world arrived to seek their fortune. But did you know there were two significant rushes prior to this? The first occurred in North Carolina in 1799 after a young man found a seventeen pound nugget near a creek. The second, that lasted longer and produced more gold occurred in northern Georgia thirty years later. Geological experts agree that the gold found in Georgia is from the same vein as the one in North Carolina. Two rushes that occurred after the California event are the 1859 Pike’s Peak rush and the 1899 Nome rush. 

Gold Rush Bride Tegan (Book three in the Gold Rush Bride series) takes place during the Nome rush. My research turned up several intriguing tidbits. First of all, there were quite a few women who traveled to Nome to take part in the rush, many of whom came alone. Others accompanied husbands, brothers, or fathers. Prospectors would either take a steamship from San Francisco or Seattle, a journey of a couple of weeks. Secondly, gold was so plentiful on the beaches, that very little effort was needed to find nuggets and flakes. Because the coastline was considered public domain, miners were not required to file a claim. Land along the creeks and rivers had to be purchased and registered. Tent cities were set up, and folks stayed until the onset of winter when authorities made them leave.

Even more interesting was the information I discovered about North Dakota politician Alexander McKenzie. McKenzie began his career as a sheriff of Burleigh County, being elected five times. As time passed, he became very influential in the state, and it seems that power went to his head because he became corrupt. He was known to have stolen votes, intimidated voters, and resorting to physical violence with his opponents. After hearing about the gold strikes, he hand-picked individuals for the positions of federal judge, federal district attorney, and other important positions for the town of Nome. One of his appointees was Arthur Noyes who took allowed claim jumpers to take mines from their rightful owners, then illegally appointed McKenzie as the receiver to operate the mines while the owners appealed (having to go all the way to San Francisco to do so!) He was finally arrested and found guilty. Sentenced to one year in jail, he only served three months, then later pardoned by President McKinley.  

The information about McKenzie captivated me so much, I included a fictionalized version in Gold Rush Bride Tegan. A tiny hamlet populated by various Eskimo groups until the 1898, Nome became a boomtown inhabited by more than twenty thousand people at its peak. At the end of the rush, in 1910, the population had plummeted to 2,600.

Would you leave all you know to pan for gold?

Gold Rush Bride Tegan:

She’s out to prove herself. He’s only looking for adventure. Neither one realizes they’ll find more than gold “in them thar hills.”

Tegan Llewellyn has always been different than her adopted family, except Grandmother Hannah, a prospector during the 1829 Georgia gold rush. Now, seventy years later there are reports of gold in Nome, and the opportunity is too good to pass up. But Tegan doesn’t count on the dangers that strike from the moment she steps off the steamer, including the threat of losing her heart.

Elijah Hunter has prospected for gold all over the US and Canada and likes being on the move. The last thing he expects to find on his latest search is a lady miner who proves to be nothing but trouble. Can he convince her that leaving is for her own good before it’s too late…for both of them?

Purchase Link: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B09R3VNY95

Bio:

Linda Shenton Matchett writes about ordinary people who did extraordinary things in days gone by. A volunteer docent and archivist for the Wright Museum of WWII, Linda is a former trustee for her local public library. She is a native of Baltimore, Maryland and was born a stone’s throw from Fort McHenry. Linda has lived in historic places all her life, and is now located in central New Hampshire where her favorite activities include exploring historic sites and immersing herself in the imaginary worlds created by other authors. 

Social Media Links:

Website/blog: http://www.LindaShentonMatchett.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LindaShentonMatchettAuthor

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/lindasmatchett

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Linda-Shenton-Matchett/e/B01DNB54S0

Goodreads Author Page: http://www.goodreads.com/linda-shenton-matchett

BookBub Author Page: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/linda-shenton-matchett

Moments in History YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4b-o_6cD8HkHNyFP-wZwJg

Patreon: http://www.patreon.com/LindaShentonMatchett

Though Darkness Descend by Janet Joanou Weiner

Website

Fig & Vine Blog: Life and Beauty in the South of France

https://www.janetjoanouweiner.com

Persecution of the Huguenots is intensifying in 17th century France.

What will be the cost of her unbelief?

Jeanne Tessier is not willing to die for a faith she doesn’t possess. Where was God when she desperately needed him? In her darkest hour, he didn’t seem to hear or care.

Until now, Jeanne has kept her lack of belief hidden from her Huguenot community. But with the imminent threat of twelve hundred dragoon soldiers sent by King Louis XIV to suppress them, she faces upheaval in every area of her life–including her hope of marrying Etienne.

Fighting for her way of life, she follows Etienne against his wishes and warnings from her close friend Pierre. When the dragoons move into her home, the Château de Planque, Jeanne discovers where God is in suffering and death, who she truly is–and whom she truly loves.

_______

My debut historical fiction novel came out in January of this year. I am amazed and grateful to God for this fulfillment of a long-held dream. Now on to Book 2 in the series!

As stated in my bio, I live in an ancient château, in a small town in southern France with a rich history. This region has been a bastion of French Protestants (Huguenots) dating back to the 16th century. At that time in western-European history, there was no other form of Christianity, which rendered the Huguenots suspicious to those in power. For two centuries, the kings of France subjected them to severe restrictions and repression.

Persecution for our beliefs is nothing new under the sun. Yet, there is great inspiration to be found when diving into the actual events of Huguenot resistance. Indeed, the World War II resistance movement drew its name from a Huguenot descendant. 

The stubbornly faithful Huguenots stood firm and held to their faith despite tremendous pressure and deprivation. Dragoon soldiers seized women who refused to convert and imprisoned them for life. They chained condemned men to the galley boats of Marseille until death––which usually occurred in less than two years. Children were considered illegitimate as their parents’ marriage was outside the one established church. Authorities sent them to convents to be reeducated at the parents’ expense.

While most of us have not known this level of suffering, we all have our own stories to tell. Several years ago, during an incredibly difficult time in our family, I came to a full stop during worship one Sunday. The lyrics emphasized God’s goodness. My heart wouldn’t let me continue. How could that be true when he allowed me to experience searing pain?

Until that moment, I hadn’t realized that I’d lost a lot of trust in him. I hadn’t been unfaithful or made bad choices, but here I was suffering. Why? And where was my heavenly Father? Doesn’t he promise us protection?

Those questions led me on a journey back to trust in his faithfulness, no matter what is going on in life. I thought answers as to why the pain was there would bring me peace, but that’s not the case. Only him, only his loving presence amidst the darkness and confusion, lifted me out of the fog and set my feet on firm ground.

Jeanne, the main character in my novel, undergoes a similar journey. Surrounded by external forces far more vicious than anything I’ve yet experienced, she discovers true life––and true love.

She grows to understand the promises of Psalm 91 differed from what she imagined and yet were even more tangible and real. It’s his constant presence with us that is the ultimate protection. His light shines all the brighter in the darkness.

May we know this truth deeply, no matter our circumstances.

Janet Joanou Weiner is an American living in France for almost twenty years. She makes her home in the 500-year-old Château de Planque with her husband and their mission organization. Daily, she wishes the walls would tell her all the stories.

While she greatly misses  her four grown children and four grandchildren, who all live in the US, she loves her life in the small south of France town. Surrounded by ancient stories and beauty of many facets, she treasures the constant flow of inspiration.

Links:

Though Darkness Descend: The Huguenot Resistance Series, Book 1

www.amazon.com/dp/B09NM8ST2G

Fiction Finder: March 2022 New Releases

March 2022 New Releases

More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website

Contemporary Romance:

Hearts and Goals by Carolyn Miller –He’s a goalie with a big heart, while she’s afraid to trust again. After a series of tragedies, Maggie Joly’s dreams have been confined to her work at Montreal’s botanic gardens and caring for her little boy. Besides, wishing for more would simply be selfish, especially when she’s already loved well. But when a surprising workplace encounter sees her in the arms of a handsome sweet-talking stranger, she’s soon forced to reassess whether romance might still be in her future after all. (Contemporary Romance, Independently published)

Historical Romance:

Peace in the Mountain Haven by Misty M. Beller — Watkuese is desperate to return across the Rocky Mountains before winter sets in. Time is running out for her to get her adopted daughter back to the familiar surroundings of the Shoshone village before the grief of her parents’ death causes irreparable damage. Hugh Charpentier has spent his life watching over his siblings, which meant also ensuring his brother’s widow and babe are settled well into their new life. Now he’s asked to help shepherd a woman and child he barely knows across the mountains. As hard as it is to keep up with a six-year-old in the treacherous Rockies, it’s not nearly as dangerous as risking his heart to a woman and child who may not ever be his. (Historical Romance, Independently published)

The Spark of Love by Amanda Cabot — When a spurned suitor threatens her, heiress Alexandra Tarkington flees New York for Mesquite Springs in the Texas Hill Country, where her father is building a hotel. But the happy reunion she envisions is not to be as her father insists she return to New York. Instead, Alexandra attempts to carve out a niche for herself in town, teaching schoolchildren to paint and enjoying the company of Gabe Seymour, a delightful man she met on the stagecoach. But all is not as it seems. Two men, each with his own agenda, have followed her to Mesquite Springs. And Gabe is an investigator, searching for proof that her father is a swindler. When a series of apparent accidents threaten her life, Alexandra and Gabe will have to work together to discover the truth. And perhaps along the way they will discover that the sparks of attraction they’ve felt from the beginning are more than sparks – they’re love. (Historical Romance from Revell – A Division of Baker Publishing Group)

Counterfeit Love by Crystall Caudill — Can this undercover agent save the woman he loves–or is her heart as counterfeit as the money he’s been sent to track down? After all that Grandfather has sacrificed to raise her, Theresa Plane owes it to him to save the family name–and that means clearing their debt with creditors before she marries Edward Greystone. But when one of the creditors’ threats leads her to stumble across a midnight meeting, she discovers that the money he owes isn’t all Grandfather was hiding. And the secrets he kept have now trapped Theresa in a life-threatening fight for her home–and the truth. (Historical Romance from Kregel Publications)

Ellie’s Escape by Linda Shenton Matchett –Ellie Wagner is fine being a spinster school teacher. Then she witnesses a bank hold up and can identify the bandits. Fellow robbery victim Milly Crenshaw happens to run the Westward Home & Hearts Matrimonial Agency so she arranges for Ellie to head West as a mail-order bride. But her groom only wants a business arrangement. Can she survive a loveless marriage? Banker Julian Sheffield is more comfortable with numbers than with people, but he’s done well for himself. Then the bank president tells him that in order to advance further he must marry in six weeks’ time. The candid, unsophisticated woman sent by the agency is nothing like he expected, but time is running out. When her past comes calling, does he have what it takes to ensure their future? (Historical Romance from Shortwave Press)

Gracie’s Surrender by Blossom Turner –Helping the orphan children in Richmond just might overturn everything Gracie thought she knew, including the value of love. Gracie Williams has always had an adventurous streak, which led her from her home in the Shenandoah Valley to Richmond, Virginia, where she can devote her life to the orphan children. Though her beauty has brought on the advances of many men, she has no plans to marry, and finds suitors an unfortunate irritation she doesn’t have time for—much to her parents’ chagrin. When she befriends Matthew Weston, the mature and serious orphanage superintendent, she confides in him and believes he shares her goals. Neither are prepared for the sparks that fly. Tension grows as Matthew falls in love with her, yet realizes he is just another man in the long line of would-be suitors. (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)

Love’s Fortress by Jennifer Uhlarik — A Friendship From the Past Brings Closure to Dani’s Fractured Family. When Dani Sango’s art forger father passes away, Dani inherits his home. There, she finds a book of Native American drawings, which leads her to seek museum curator Brad Osgood’s help to decipher the ledger art. Why would her father have this book? Is it another forgery? Brad Osgood longs to provide his four-year-old niece, Brynn, the safe home she desperately deserves. The last thing he needs is more drama, especially from a forger’s daughter. But when the two meet “accidentally” at St. Augustine’s 350-year-old Spanish fort, he can’t refuse the intriguing woman. (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

Mystery:

Obedient Unto Death by Liisa Eyerly — Sinister forces are at work to destroy the fledgling Christian faith in Ephesus, and Sabina is in their way. A young scribe is murdered during a covert Christian worship service. Sabina, a member of this outlawed religion, can’t believe a member of this new faith could be the killer. But when her Roman magistrate father arrests the church bishop for murder, she reluctantly admits all is not brotherly love and harmony among the faithful. Racing to stop the bishop’s imminent execution, Sabina plunges into the private world of the dead scribe, searching for proof of the bishop’s innocence. Mystery, intrigue, and betrayal meet her at every turn. Will she discover the truth in time, or will she be thrown in prison herself for her faith in Christ? (Mystery from Crossriver Media Group)

Bitter Truth by Janet Sketchley — Who would want Ciara dead? And why? Against all odds, Landon Smith and her ordinary-hero neighbour Bobby Hawke survived a murderous plot six weeks ago. Now, she’s determined to leave solving mysteries to the experts—like handsome local police officer Dylan Tremblay. But when a friend is nearly killed in a daring daylight attack, Landon can’t sit this out. Not when she knows the anger of being a victim. Her faith tells her to leave room for God’s vengeance. Her heart says to retaliate. The fight to expose Ciara’s enemy will uncover secrets and betrayal that could cost Landon her life. (Mystery, Independently published)

Speculative Fiction:

Madness in Wonderland by Tabitha Bouldin — Wonderland is in trouble. Under the rule of the Red Queen, Wonderland is under constant threat. In fear for her throne, children are taken into the queen’s army and only the strongest survive. Alice is nothing but a pirate, but with the help of Hatter, they hatch a plan to sneak into the Red Queen’s palace to free Hatter’s sister. After all, Alice has always wanted to fly an airship. Dr. Frank N. Stein has created an army of automatons to serve their queen. Of particular note: a prototype soldier. Part man. Part machine. The best of both worlds. Doc’s monster is a threat to everything they know, but Alice sees something in the man that begs she look beyond what he’s done and search out the heart of the beast for the better of the realm. He’s their only hope of survival, but how can a monster learn to love when all he’s known is hate? (Speculative Fiction from Celebrate Lit Publishing)

Forbidden by Gina Detwiler — After thousands of years imprisoned in the Abyss, the fallen angels known as the Watchers are on the loose. Jared Lorn and Grace Fortune have also escaped from prison, but all they want to do is get home to their family. Dark forces conspire against them, and soon they find themselves on a perilous journey to the Other Side, the spiritual realm. They must battle the Watcher Samyaza and his cohorts to escape, not knowing that the leader of the Watchers, Azazel, has taken control of the real world and subjugated all nations to his will. Soon they must join the few that are left standing against this worldwide evil, those that have not given in, known as the Forbidden. (Speculative Fiction from VINSPIRE)

Thriller/Suspense:

Still Water by Betty Thomason Owens — rime reporter, Jake Bradley, has stumbled onto a suspicious accident. The clues lead him to Lisa Oliver, the daughter of the victims. Something about her draws Jake Bradley, and he vows to help her at all costs. When the FBI warns him off the case, Jake is more determined than ever to find the truth and keep Lisa safe. After the sudden death of her parents, Lisa Oliver yearns for a place to call home. When she meets Jake, she wants to trust him, but her father’s mantras of self-sufficiency and independence create a stumbling block. As the wall between them crumbles, the past encroaches, and Lisa fears she will never be free. Is she forever doomed to her parents’ nomadic lifestyle, fleeing unseen enemies? (Thriller/Suspense from Write Integrity Press)

Thriller/Suspense/Romance:

Malicious Intent by Lynn H. Blackburn — Founder and CEO of Hedera, Inc., Dr. Ivy Collins has dedicated her life to developing technology to help amputees like her stepfather, and the results have been lauded by government, medical, and advocacy groups worldwide. Now that she is on the cusp of having her cutting-edge prosthetic technology become a reality, someone is trying to sabotage her success. When US Secret Service Special Agent Gil Dixon is assigned to investigate an issue involving his childhood best friend, Ivy Collins, he’s ecstatic that fate has brought them back together. Gil has always held a torch for her, and he doesn’t want to let her slip away again. When Ivy continues to be targeted for her technology, Gil will have to use everything he has to keep Ivy—and her life’s work—safe from harm. Can they figure out who the culprit is before innocent lives are caught in the crossfire? Or will dangerous circumstances demand that Ivy give it all up—to save someone else? (Thriller/Suspense/Romance from Revell – A Division of Baker Publishing Group)

Her Darkest Secret by Jessica R. Patch — The sight of a goose feather at a murder scene modeled after a children’s poem is enough to make FBI special agent Fiona Kelly’s blood turn to ice. Almost two decades ago, a feather was left with her sister’s body—and with every subsequent victim of the Nursery Rhyme Killer. Now he’s back. Only this time, his latest gruesome murder is a message to the only one who ever got away: Fiona. Finding “Rhyme” is an obsession that’s fueled Fiona’s career—and destroyed her marriage to fellow FBI agent Asa Kodiak. Now Fiona and Asa have to put their past tensions aside and work together one last time. But Rhyme is watching, and catching this killer may force Fiona to reveal her biggest, darkest secret…the one only he knows. (Thriller/Suspense/Romance from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

Texas Cold Case Threat by Jessica R. Patch — After a murderer sends her taunting letters, FBI behavioral analyst Chelsey Banks retreats to a friend’s ranch—and interrupts the housekeeper being attacked. When evidence connects the break-in to a cold-case serial killer, Chelsey’s best friend, Texas Ranger Tack Holliday, needs her help. With Tack at her side, this could be Chelsey’s chance to catch two killers—unless one of them gets her first. (Thriller/Suspense/Romance from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

Western:

The Element of Love by Mary Conneally — With their sharp engineering minds, Laura Stiles and her two sisters have been able to deal with their mother’s unfortunate choice in husband, until they discover his plans to marry each of them off to his lecherous friends. Now they must run away–far and fast–to find better matches to legally claim their portion of their father’s lumber dynasty and seize control from their stepfather. When Laura befriends a mission group heading to serve the poor in California during their escape, she quickly volunteers herself and her sisters to join their efforts. Despite the settlement being in miserable condition, the sisters are excited by the opportunity to put their skills to good use. Laura also sees potential in Caleb, the local minister, to help with gaining her inheritance. But when secrets buried in Caleb’s past and in the land around them come to light, it’ll take all the smarts the sisters have to keep trouble at bay. (Western from Bethany House (Baker) Publishing)

Young Adult:

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Collapse: The Death of Friendship by Angela D. Shelton — With little left of the world she grew up in, what more must one teenager give up to protect her family and their homestead? (Young Adult from Two Oaks Publishing, LLC)

Plus check out these recent additions to Fiction Finder published within the past month:

 

  An Odd Request by LuAnn K. Edwards, Will Becca leave the warmth and love of her small, close-knit community to marry Ben, a man she hasn’t seen in twelve years and someone who may never love her? (Contemporary Romance)
   The Amadeus Variation by Kathy Webster, In 1791, betrayal, false accusation, ill health, and broken relationships drive two unlikely companions to escape Austria. (General Historical)
   Paper Dolls by Kara R. Hunt, Paper can be torn and dolls can break. So can humans. (General Contemporary)
   Undercover Dog Dad by Erin Stevenson, A detective on an undercover assignment meets his match and finds love. (Contemporary Romance)

Reclaiming Peace

Last month I shared that my word for the year is RECLAIM. When I think back to the last couple of years, there has been so much grief, destruction, and chaos. I believe so much has come from the pit of hell and because of my faith in Christ, I have authority in Him to decree it’s time to get my stuff back. Everything the enemy stole, it’s reclaim time.

One, if not the biggest thing, the true defeated one took from me was peace.

I didn’t know how big anxiety was a part of my life until I was on vacation unable to walk. Fear literally paralyzed me. I look back and remember events from childhood when I was literally sick because it was art day. Or times I worked a job where the manager played the admin against the laborers and the lies she wanted me to spread also made me sick.

Then there’s been weather. That seems an odd thing to have anxiety about but I remember an aunt that literally hid and refused to leave the house if there was even a hint of a thunderstorm. My dad had a job that revolved around winter, but he was definitely a bit too attached to predictions and whether we were going to leave the house or not.

Me? Well, summer is not my favorite season. It’s the humidity. It chokes me. My hormones have always been out of whack and now that I’m over 50, it’s brutal. I take medicine and supplements, but I really have to pray to walk through days where I hear high humidity. It could mean multiple wardrobe changes. Exhaustion.

Winter? Snow doesn’t bother me. Ice? That’s another story. I have knees that dislocate easily and ice has caused me anxiety as long as I can remember. My inability to walk last year in the summer is actually the same reaction I have in ice without the grips I wear on my shoes. I wear those things from October to May, or at least until I am certain ice is gone.

This year we’ve had a couple weeks of harsh winter conditions. Last week we had a storm, Landon, that gave us two inches of solid ice before we got six inches of snow. And that all was on top of snow that still had not melted from the last storm. My son’s car was encased in ice. Because I was the only one home on a warmer day where it was ripe melting conditions, I trekked out and worked three hours to get that car free. The snow was to his door. The entire car was in ice.

Then I had to recycle. We’ve had enough storms that garbage schedules are off and so is recycling. I had to go to another town because our bins were so full. I get there and the first row of bins are all full. The second row are further back, and to reach them, I had to climb the incline that is all ice. So icy even my boot grips were like, “No.” I had a bin bigger than me to navigate.

Every part of me wanted to return to the car.

But this is the year of reclaim.

I took a deep breath and put the bin on the ground and pushed it to the bin. I emptied the bin and then used it again to help me down to the car. Going down is harder for me, and I deep breathed through. A couple tears fell because I was mad I had to even work those conditions. But I did it. A man even watched me and kept telling me to be careful, it was icy. I agreed and thanked him, but I did it.

Reclaiming peace meant even though I didn’t love it, and although I was a little nervous about falling, I didn’t back down. I breathed and trusted God had me.

Victory!