Julie Arduini's Blog, page 25

Reclaiming the House

Pixabay image

Earlier this week I shared that my word for 2022 is reclaim. 2020 was rough and 2021 just about broke me. I feel like I’m slowly crawling out of that deep pit, clutching the edges with my weary, filthy fingers, and ready to rise up and fight.

First up: the house.

I love the Christmas season but I struggle in one area, the clutter. By the time Christmas comes, I want to trash bag the house. Collect all the rogue ribbons, wrapping paper snippets, and box everything up. This year was extra hard because not long after we decorated the house, we had a leak that ruined our dining room ceiling. That meant the dining room table had to go into the hall. Fans ran for days. Extra chairs filled the living room.

Then our real Christmas tree fell. Time and time again. That fir would not take my adjustments and finally I propped it up against the wall and the couch. It made me hate the change of tree we made this year and the decoration process.

In the past my need to take down the decorations and deep clean the house has dominated my thoughts to the point the real point of Christmas would get lost. This season I made peace with the calendar. I breathed through the chaos and knew once it was New Year’s Eve day, the house was mine.

The dining room is still missing a ceiling and that means the table remains in the hall. And it’s okay. The live tree is gone. The decorations labeled and boxed. Tile waxed. Carpets steam cleaned. Furniture rearranged.

I reclaimed the house, but better than that, my thoughts. I didn’t let the clutter ruin me.

Victory!

The Fire of Eden by Antony Barone Kolenc

Trumpet Tuesday: The Fire of Eden (Book 3 in The Harwood Mysteries)

Antony Barone Kolenc

My award-winning inspirational historical fiction series, The Harwood Mysteries, tells the ongoing story of Alexander (“Xan”), a peasant boy in twelfth-century England who—along with his friends, Lucy and Christina—must solve spooky mysteries and go on adventures even as historical events unfold around them. Shadow in the Dark (Book 1) was released in July 2020; The Haunted Cathedral (Book 2) was released in February 2021; and The Fire of Eden (Book 3) was released in July 2021. In this blog post, I give a behind-the-story glimpse at the history behind the novels.

Shadow in the Dark takes place at a fictional Benedictine monastery set in Yorkshire, England, in 1184 A.D. The novel begins as bandits attack Xan’s manor, and he winds up at Harwood Abbey being cared for by the “black monks”—named because of the black robes that the Benedictines wore. The novel explores the historical manorial/feudal system in place during this medieval period, which students learn about in their middle-grade social studies curriculum. Seen through the eyes of a boy who is a “serf”—essentially an indentured servant to the lord of the manor where his family lives—the reader gets an in-depth view of how aristocratic landlords met their obligations to King Henry II by having peasants work their land and pay for the right to live in the village by paying rents of crops and livestock. The book also provides extensive insight into the role of the monasteries and monks in preserving, not only the texts of the Sacred Scriptures, but also the great classic works of Western Civilization. Some of the few literate persons in the middle ages, monks spent their time praying seven times a day and copying these great works of literature.

In The Haunted Cathedral, the action moves to Lincoln, England, in 1185 A.D. The setting of the novel mostly involves the two great historical landmarks of Lincolnshire: Lincoln Castle and Lincoln Cathedral. The history of both structures is explored as Xan, Lucy, and Christina investigate whether the ghost of a little girl haunts the cathedral. In particular, the amazing true story of Lincoln Cathedral is revealed, along with the many tragedies and mysteries that occurred within the church through the ages. The climax of the book tracks a major historical event that takes place within Lincoln Cathedral itself during Holy Week in April 1185, with the main characters experiencing one of the most incredible events ever to take place in Lincoln (which reveals the solution to the ghost mystery, too!).

In The Fire of Eden, also set in 1185, Xan and Lucy spend much of the book at a smaller abbey that is suffering under the type of corruption that was too rampant in the Benedictine order at that time. Indeed, in the century leading up to the novel, there were major reforms going on in monastic life, with new orders and reformers attempting to weed out some of the corruption that had rotted away at the beauties of monastic life up to that time. In the process, readers are introduced to some of the history behind the First and Second Crusades, which took place in 1095 and 1147. The novels build upon the ongoing period of Christian influence in the Holy Land, and are leading up to major events in the Third Crusade, already unfolding as the protagonists journey through their teenage years.

The series is both entertaining and educational, with readers learning much about the life and times of twelfth-century England, one of the most fascinating and consequential periods in medieval history. The books have won praise from critics, along with a growing list of accolades: 2021 Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards, Gold Medal: Young Adult Fiction – Religion/Spirituality; 2021 Illumination Book Awards, Gold Medal: Juvenile/Young Adult Fiction; 2021 International Book Awards, 1st Place: Religious Fiction; 2020 Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards, Gold Medal: Young Adult Fiction – Mystery; 2021 Independent Publisher Book Awards, Bronze Medal: Religious Fiction; 2021 Catholic Media Association Book Awards, 3rd Place: Escapism; 2021 ACP Excellence in Publishing Awards, 3rd Place: Young Readers.

Read, learn, and enjoy!

Tony is the author of The Harwood Mysteries, an award-winning medieval historical fiction series for youth published by Loyola Press. He is also the host of The Shepherd’s Pie, a radio show and podcast that focuses on youth issues. He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel from the U.S. Air Force Judge Advocate General’s (JAG) Corps after 21 years of military service, and he now teaches law and writes a regular column in Practical Homeschooling Magazine. He also authors legal casebooks, book chapters, and journal articles on matters of constitutional law, homeschooling law, and military policy. He and his wife, Alisa, homeschooled their five children.

https://www.theharwoodmysteries.com/

http://www.antonykolenc.com/

Word for 2022: Reclaim

Merriam-Webster defines reclaim as follows:

Definition of reclaim

transitive verb1a: to recall from wrong or improper conduct : REFORM

b: TAME, SUBDUE

2a: to rescue from an undesirable state also: to restore to a previous natural state reclaim mining sites

b: to make available for human use by changing natural conditions reclaim swampland

3: to obtain from a waste product or by-product : RECOVER reclaimed plastic

4a: to demand or obtain the return of

b: to regain possession of

Reclaim is the word God gave me for 2022. It’s not just for me to focus on, but I believe it’s a promise and proclamation. It’s also for you.

The last two years have been hard at the very least and devastating for most. There has been loss of life, jobs, finances, peace, relationships, and more.

During Christmas break, we were in New York State. The mandates there are stronger there than most states, and whether I agree with that or not isn’t my point. My husband was in the state less than three hours when he pulled in to greet me. One of his first comments was he couldn’t wait to get out. When I probed why, I actually knew, because I could feel it.

His answer? He could feel the fear and oppression. It was spiritually choking both of us. Even with masks on, you could see and feel the fear, even in the most faithful people.

Do we take the events seriously? Absolutely. But to live with that fear? No.

It’s time to reclaim.

If Jesus is Savior to you, we have every right to proclaim His promises. We are promised peace beyond all understanding. We have the authority under the blood of Christ to cast out infirmity and demons. And after feeling absolutely paralyzed by grief and trauma last year, I am ready to reclaim.

There’s an old song I remember teaching kids when I first taught Sunday School. It’s about going to the enemy’s camp and taking back everything he stole from us. I’m a visual person and I can picture the enemy with his fancy tent, mocking me, mocking you, with his accumulated spoils.

Here’s the thing. He is the defeated one. Not us. Not you. Not me. Even if nothing changes around us, and I think in 2022 we are going to see a LOT of change, we aren’t defeated. Never forget that. Picture yourself, Jesus marching ahead with purpose, yet also in the back as your rearguard, literally surrounding you, as you make your way to the defeated one’s territory. I don’t make a habit of addressing the defeated one, but I do believe in the power of proclamation.

I see myself gathering up the joy, peace, health, and lost opportunities and placing them in the arms of Jesus. I envision walking over to the defeated one and placing my foot in such a way he falls to the ground and my feet rest on his broken self. “By the blood of Jesus, I reclaim all that has been stolen and place the defeated one under my feet. The enemy has no authority over me or my family. I reclaim that promise by the power of Christ for the glory of His name.”

And Jesus and I skip back home.

Sure, my picturing it is a form of story-telling, but the proclamation and promises of Jesus are real. Use them. Reclaim what has been lost. This is the year.

***

I created a short story, Unwrapping Hearts, as a prequel to my 2022 release, Anchored Hearts. This FREE contemporary romance is the origin story of patriarch Paul Hart and how after years as a widower, saw his neighbor, Shelly Hoffman, in a new way. Look for Anchored Hearts, the first book in the Surrendering Hearts series about the Hart sextuplets, by spring.

Unwrapping He arts

This post first appeared on Christians Read

ACFW Fiction Finder: January 2022 New Releases

January 2022 New Releases

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

General Contemporary:

Grace Across the Miles by Christine Dillon — How can you belong when you don’t know who you are? Gina Reid is surrounded by people getting married or having babies. She’s under pressure to settle down but how can she do that when she doesn’t even know where she came from? Since the startling revelation that she was adopted, it’s felt like there is something missing. But fear has kept her from searching for her biological parents. What if learning the truth is worse than not knowing? Now an overheard comment has propelled her into action. Can Gina find out who she truly is? Or will she discover that some secrets are best left undisturbed? (General Contemporary, Independently Published)

Mercy’s Legacy by Sarah Hanks — After being released from prison, DeAndre struggles to make a new life for himself and his family. But when his past shows up in the doorway of his art studio, begging for a place in his heart and life, he is forced to make decisions that will alter his life forever. Nine-year-old Mercy has questions no one will answer. That is, until her brother reveals that he knows the whereabouts of her birthfather. Is the man whose blood runs in her veins a bad man like her parents told her? Or a good one? Could he fulfill the longing in her heart to truly belong? (General Contemporary, Independently Published)

Contemporary Romance:

Her Faith Restored by Cynthia Herron — Can two polar opposites meet in the middle to achieve a winning outcome? Sunset Meadows’ activity director Melinda Brewer has her work cut out for her. As a five-year veteran with the cutting-edge retirement community, “Mel” wears many hats. But her job is more than a title. The residents at “The Meadows” are like family—some of whom she’s known her entire life. Ruby—this little niche in the Ozark Mountains—may be a mere dot on the Missouri map, but it’s also Mel’s birthplace, the land of her heritage, reminiscent of old ways while cognizant of new seasons.Leave it to new kid on the block Matt Enders to upset the apple cart. When Enders is hired as the facility’s new social worker, his idea of a well-oiled machine is to eliminate a few rusty cogs—chiefly, some of Mel’s most successful programs. Mr. City Slicker doesn’t care about making waves. He delivers a hurricane! (Contemporary Romance from Mountain Brook Ink)

His Road to Redemption by Lisa Jordan — Veteran Micah Holland’s scars go deeper than anyone knows. An inheritance from his mentor could be a new beginning—if he shares the inherited goat farm with fiercely independent Paige Watson. Now the only way they can keep the farm is to work together. But first Micah must prove he’s a changed man to keep his dream and the woman he’s falling for. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired (Harlequin)).

Love on Ice by Carolyn Miller — She’s focused on winning gold. He wants to lose the player tag. Can a fake relationship become something real? Aussie short track skater Holly Travers has one goal – make the Vancouver Games, no matter what it takes. She has no time for distractions, even if they come in the handsome form of her Canadian best friend’s twin brother. This hockey player may say he’s not a player, but can she trust him? Brent Karlsson has one goal – make his sister’s best friend realize he’s a changed man and she should give him a chance. When a set-up in Hawaii helps these two opposites realize they have more in common than they thought, what happens when he wants to turn their fake relationship into something real? And how can a relationship work when these two elite athletes never see each other and live on opposite sides of the world?
(Contemporary Romance, Independently Published).

Searching for Home by Jill Weatherholt — When injured professional bull rider Luke Beckett returns to his hometown to recover, he doesn’t expect his B and B host and physical therapist to be his first and only love, Meg Brennan. He’s also unprepared for Meg’s adorable triplets to steal his heart. Luke’s past has him doubting he’s good enough for Meg and the children, but they might be just what the doctor ordered to help him heal. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

Historical Romance:

Harmony on the Horizon by Kathleen Denly — Her calling to change the world may be his downfall. On the heels of the Great Rebellion, Margaret Foster, an abolitionist northerner, takes a teaching position in 1865 San Diego—a town dominated by Southern sympathizers. At thirty-seven years of age, Margaret has accepted spinsterhood and embraced her role as teacher. So, when Everett Thompson, the handsomest member of the School Board, reveals his interest in her, it’s a dream come true. Until her passionate ideals drive a wedge between them. After two decades of hard work, Everett Thompson is on the verge of having everything he’s dreamed of. Even the beautiful new teacher has agreed to his courtship. Then two investments go south and a blackmailer threatens everything Everett has and dreams of. (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)

Her Darling Mr. Day by Grace Hitchcock — New Orleans’ most eligible bachelor insists he’s not on the market . . . but he couldn’t be more wrong. Jilted in front of all New York, Theodore Day decides to lose himself in his family’s luxury riverboat business in New Orleans and compete against his brother to become the next company head. The brother with the most sales by summer’s end will win the position. Thanks to Theodore’s fame as a suitor in a socialite’s outlandish competition to find a husband, he has become very desirable royalty in Southern society and thus has an advantage. It took Flora Wingfield’s best work to convince her family to summer in New Orleans, but with Teddy Day a bachelor once again, she’s leaving nothing to chance. Desperate to stand out from all the clamoring belles, Flora attempts a bold move that goes completely awry, only to find it’s her interior design skills that finally catch his notice. But when Flora’s father’s matchmaking schemes come in the way of her plans, Teddy will have to decide where his happiness truly lies and what he is willing to sacrifice for it. (Historical Romance from Bethany House (Baker) Publishing)

Love’s Twisting Trail by Betty Woods — Stampedes, wild animals, and renegade Comanches make a cattle drive dangerous for any man. The risks multiply when Charlotte Grimes goes up the trail disguised as Charlie, a fourteen-year-old boy. She promised her dying father she’d save their ranch after her brother, Tobias, mismanages their money. To keep her vow, she rides the trail with the brother she can’t trust. David Shepherd needs one more successful drive to finish buying the ranch he’s prayed for. He partners with Tobias to travel safely through Indian Territory. David detests the hateful way. Tobias treats his younger brother, Charlie. But what does he do when he discovers Charlie’s secret? What kind of woman would do what she’s done? (Historical Romance from Scrivenings Press)

Marrying Mr. Wrong by Melissa Jagears — Gwendolyn McGill wants to be loved and accepted for who she is, but that’s hard to do in a small town where everyone judges her by the scandal her father caused. Unfortunately, the man she hoped would sweep her away from all the wagging tongues is no longer interested in marrying her. Unable to leave town, she’s determined to prove she’s more than just a pretty face who knows how to bat her eyelashes.
For years, Timothy O’Conner has loved Gwen from a distance, knowing someone like her would never be attracted to a lowly ranch hand with a blemished face like him. When Gwen unexpectedly shows up at the ranch, asking him to help her learn how to attract a man of quality, Tim’s feelings become even harder to suppress. When danger pushes them together, they discover there’s more to each other than either of them imagined. Though God is no respecter of persons, is the desire of their hearts strong enough to defy society’s expectations? (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

Song for the Hunter by Naomi Musch — Wed to a trading company partner to escape life in Montreal under her harsh father’s thumb, Camilla Bonnet finds herself tragically widowed and pregnant in the Upper Country frontier. When her brother fails to return for her from Fort William, she is cast on the mercy of the trading post owner’s family. She also draws comfort from Bemidii Marchal, a Métis hunter who soothes away her misgivings as he finds his own refuge on Lake Superior’s Madeline Island. Bemidii’s thoughts of courting a maiden are cut short when he raises his knife against a company man at Fort William’s Great Rendezvous. No one will believe he killed to protect his sister—least of all the beautiful Frenchwoman on Madeline Island who stirs his affections—not when she learns that her brother is dead and Bemidii stands accused of his murder. As the sharp blade of truth divides them, will Bemidii survive the justice of powerful men who are a law unto themselves? Or will his life—and Camilla—be lost to him forever? (Historical Romance from Iron Stream Media (Smitten Historical Romance, imprint of LPC, division of ISM))

Mystery:

Four Days Famous by Luana Ehrlich — Mylas Grey doesn’t want to be famous. Not even for a day.
As a private investigator, he prefers to fly under the radar. However, when a well-known doctor asks Mylas to investigate his father’s murder, that’s exactly what happens. Suddenly, Mylas is dodging reporters while interviewing suspects and searching for the dead man’s elusive girlfriend. (Mystery/Crime, Independently Published)

Speculative:

The Sword and the Song by Carla Laureano — With a storm on the horizon, who will stand against the darkness?
Conor and Aine have barely escaped Seare with their lives. Conor knows he must return to find the harp that could end the Red Druid’s reign of terror, but he must first see Aine safely to her family home on the isle of Amanta. When an unnatural storm tears them apart, they find themselves in even more danger than that which they fled. Because magic is not the only thing to fear in Aine’s homeland, where the Sofarende invaders harry the coasts and shifting clan alliances make it impossible to know who to trust. Conor and Aine must cling to the whispers of Comdiu’s plans for them and their enduring love for one another, even when the future looks darkest. But with betrayal at every turn, will they give into fear? Or will they learn to depend on Comdiu completely … before all hope is lost? (Speculative from Enclave Publishing)

Thriller/Suspense:

Shadow of Fear by Urcelia Teixeira — What seemed like the end was really the beginning. Enemies collide in the second installment of the toe-curling Christian Suspense Thriller that left readers gasping for more at the end of book one! Blinded by revenge of her own, she hunted down her enemies, hoping to put her past behind her. Only to find that breaking free isn’t as easy as she’d thought it would be. Blood got shed, lives lost, and now, more lives are at stake. Caught in a deadlock between enemies who won’t stop until they serve revenge, Jorja has to make a choice. Die, or make a deal with the devil. Her choice sets in motion one of the biggest assignments she has ever undertaken. One where fear threatens to seize her heart and take her soul. Can she finally break free from death’s clutches, risk it all, one last time? (Thriller Suspense, Independently Published)

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

 

  Growing a Family in Persimmon Hollow by Gerri Bauer, A temporary exile becomes a forever home. (Historical Romance)

 

  Stephen Michaels and his Upside-down Umbrella by Lana Lynne, Stephen and Nikki learn to surrender everything in this Upside-down world to the Lord. (Thriller/Suspense)

Land that I Love by Gail Kittleson

Set in the German Hill Country of Texas during World War II, Land That I Love is a sweeping literary novel of love and loss; friendship and animosity; fathers and sons; and coping during times of war and peace. Yet it is more than a love story. It is about the racism and bigotry that still exist in our world. As author Gail Kittleson’s characters struggle with the problems of everyday life, they teach us that we survive hard times by being good neighbors despite our differences and that hatred can be conquered by love, understanding and forgiveness.

When I first read this backcover copy, I thought, “Wow—a sweeping literary novel . . . I guess my hero’s life does teach readers these things.”

Yes, Everett, the hero, is a good neighbor, especially to one fellow who turns out to be not-so-friendly as time goes on. Yes, Everett refuses to allow his neighbor’s emotions (hatred) taint his perspective. And indeed, he does forgive.

It may seem strange that I don’t plan exactly what my characters’ experiences will teach people. I simply listen to their stories as they evolve . . . and keep writing.

Sometimes when they’re going through especially painful situations, I cry. I’m typing away, the tension mounts, and a great loss occurs. A wave of grief sweeps over my characters . . . and me.

I didn’t plan for this, either. But I do recall the times it has occurred, with various characters and assume it’s because they become as real to me as my next-door neighbor. The hours—days—weeks—months we spend together makes this so, for better or for worse.

Lately I’ve been working on a couple of WWII era Christmas stories, not a full-length novel. Maybe that’s because of the energy required to fully enter my character’s lives. Writing five or ten thousand words about them takes far less involvement than writing 100,000.

I do hope Everett and his wee son Donnie, along with a former butler who worked for Everett’s grandfather and became a trusted family friend, capture your hearts, as well!

When Gail’s not steeped in World War II historical research, writing, or editing, you’ll find her reading for fun, gardening, or enjoying her grandchildren in Northern Iowa. She delights in interacting with readers who fall in love with her characters.

Women of the Heartland, Gail’s World War II series, highlights women of The Greatest Generation: In Times Like These, April 2016, With Each New Dawn, February, 2017 (Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas, and Word Crafts Press, December, 2017.)

These heroines make do with what life hands them and face great odds with integrity. No easy outs or pat answers for their struggles – it’s the thick of World war II. The same can be said of Dottie in In This Together, Gail’s first historical novel (Wild Rose Press/Vintage Line), and of the women in her memoir, Catching Up With Daylight (WhiteFire Publishing.)

Gail Kittleson taught college expository writing and ESL before writing women’s historical fiction. From northern Iowa, she facilitates writing workshops and women’s retreats, and enjoys the Arizona Ponderosa forest in winter.

Hope Amid the Pain by Leslie L. McKee

Q&A with Leslie L. McKee:

Where did you get the inspiration for your book?

Hope Amid the Pain is based on my own experience of living with chronic pain and illness for over twenty-five years. Friends often told me that I needed to share my story, but I was always reluctant to do so, until I finally listened to God’s nudge to write my book.

What was the inspiration behind your book title? How did you come up with this acronym for HOPE (Hang On to Positive Expectations)?

Years ago, before I started writing the book, my pastor did a sermon on HOPE, and it’s something that has always stuck with me, especially on the days when I’m having a flare-up. I needed something to grab on to, to remind me that God still has a plan. This little acronym has helped me through many days, and I hope it can help others, as well.

Is this your first devotional book that you’ve written? Will there be more?

HOPE Amid the Pain is my first solo book. I have had my devotions published many other places, including three devotional compilations with Worthy/Ellie Claire, literary journals, and blogs (my own, as well as others’). I’ve had flash fiction stories published, as well.

I do hope there will be future books. I have a few ideas, and I’ve even started working on what may become a 365-day devotional journal. It’s still a work in progress.

I also have a few possible ideas for flash fiction or short stories, but those are in the early stages.

What main message are you hoping to convey to your readers?

Hope Amid the Pain is a 60-day devotional journal that will remind women living with chronic pain and illness that they’re not alone in their struggles. It is possible to hang on to positive expectations and cling to the hope that can only be found in the Lord … even while living with chronic pain and illness.

How many bookshelves/books are in your house?

Way too many! Official bookshelves? Ten (various sizes), but that’s not including the books piled in front of those shelves, in milkcrates, lining the stairs, still in boxes or plastic tubs, etc. My husband did not enjoy the amount when we moved a few years ago. He was quite excited when I got a Kindle years ago, but I still enjoy and prefer print books.

Apart from writing, what is your favorite creative outlet?

I enjoy playing piano, crocheting, and reading (which is probably no surprise ). I also enjoy Bible journaling.

Bio:

Leslie is an editor, author, and reviewer, but editing, writing, and reviewing are not merely jobs—they are her passions. Leslie is an avid reader with an eye for detail. Leslie has been a chronic pain warrior for more than twenty years, so she is familiar with the peaks and valleys associated with living with a chronic illness. She has felt God come alongside her through His Word and remind her that the battle is His and she’s not alone. Leslie is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and The Christian PEN. Her devotional journal (HOPE Amid The Pain: Hanging On to Positive Expectations When Battling Chronic Illness and Pain) was released on October 26, 2021, with Ambassador International. She has had devotionals published in Ellie Claire/Worthy Publishing compilation books, and she’s also published flash fiction stories. In her spare time, Leslie enjoys reading, playing piano, crocheting, spending time with family and friends (and her turtle!), and rooting for the NY Giants. You can find Leslie at www.leslielmckee.com or on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @leslielmckee.

Social Media Links:

Website: https://leslielmckee.com/

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

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leslielmckee/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LeslieLMcKee

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7300724.Leslie_L_McKee

Amazon author page: https://amzn.to/3aXGTkU

(@leslielmckee on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter)

Christians Read Book Catalog

I’ve mentioned my affiliation with Christians Read before. I blog every other Wednesday and have been a part of this team blog since its creation. Vicki Hinze is not only an author, but our fearless leader. She works hard to market each of us, and I’m so grateful to be a part of the group.

This is the latest publication Vicki created. Each Christians Read blogger is included, along with a recent release.

I hope you check it out!

Mercy’s Legacy by Sarah Hanks

Today I’m interviewing a character from my new book Mercy’s Legacy which releases on January 31st and is now available for pre-order. Mercy’s Legacy is the third and last book of this series (tears!) and features a new POV character. Readers have been growing attached to this girl since book one, but she’s only now matured enough to be able to tell us her story.

Meet Mercy.

No, no, not Mercy the endearing enslaved woman from the 1800s. Readers have already fallen in love with her. I’m talking about modern-day Mercy. The one who was in the womb in book one, who was age three in book two, and who is now a curious and artistic nine-year-old.

What if you haven’t read the first two books?

You can still enjoy Mercy’s Legacy without them, though you might find more enjoyment and meaning from the book if you read the other two first. (You still have time.)

On to the interview!

We’re going to say this interview takes place before Mercy makes her appearance in Mercy’s Legacy or at the beginning of the book.

Me: Hello, Mercy. Can you tell us a little about yourself? What are your interests, hobbies, etc.?

Mercy: I like to paint and draw. Art is my life. I love music, but I don’t sing or play and instrument or anything. Just listen. My mom doesn’t let me listen to everything I want to listen to, though. 

Me: Where’s your favorite place to be?

Mercy: That’s easy. My closet. I have the best room in the house, the princess room with the turret. It has a gigantic closet and I keep all my easels and art supplies in there. It’s like an art studio.

Me: Sounds enchanting. Who are you closest to?

Mercy: David, I guess, but he’s away at college a lot. He’s not as annoying as my other brother and sisters. I love Grandma Bethany, too. She’s not really my grandma. Just an old lady that’s been friends with Mom since before I was born. She’s always nice to me. So is Aunt Breanna, who isn’t really my aunt either, just Mom’s friend. She sneaks me soda and candy sometimes which is cool.

Me: What about your mom and dad?

Mercy: I love my mom and dad. It’s just that mom’s pregnant again. I hope this new baby lives and doesn’t make her sad like the others that didn’t make it. It’s hard when Mom is sad. And I love dad too, but . . . I sometimes wonder about my other dad. The one that maybe I look like. Only I can’t say that. I can’t talk about him, ‘cause they told me he’s a bad man. I shouldn’t want to know about a bad man, but I do. I think about him every day and make up stories about him in my mind. If only I could know them both, love them both.

Me: Well, Mercy, I have a feeling things are about to change for you.

You can pre-order the fulfilling conclusion of The Mercy Series here.

After being released from prison, DeAndre struggles to make a new life for himself and his family. But when his past shows up in the doorway of his art studio, begging for a place in his heart and life, he is forced to make decisions that will alter his life forever.

Nine-year-old Mercy has questions no one will answer. That is, until her brother reveals that he knows the whereabouts of her birthfather. Is the man whose blood runs in her veins a bad man like her parents told her? Or a good one? Could he fulfill the longing in her heart to truly belong?

Natassa’s been hit with one heartache after another, and she’s finding it difficult to bounce back. She longs to keep her loved ones safe and secure, but her arms don’t seem big enough to shelter everyone. Not when COVID hits, and certainly not when her daughter takes off to meet her birth father. Will Natassa find the strength she needs to pull everyone through?

In 1868, Liberty’s safety is threatened by a band of night riders and she must flee for her life. Her mother—Mercy—pleads with her to find refuge with an old family friend and Liberty’s grandmother in Georgetown. What will Liberty find when she gets there? And will she find herself along the way?

Sarah Hanks is an award-winning author of Christian fiction in both the contemporary and historical genres. After spending over a decade mostly writing and teaching Sunday school curricula for churches in her community, she finally jumped into writing fiction full time. She and her husband have eight children of their own, a couple of whom seem to have inherited their mother’s love for playing with words and crafting stories. Though Sarah dreams of a cabin by the beach, the family of ten lives jammed together in beautiful chaos near St. Louis, Missouri. She buys ear plugs in bulk.

You can find Sarah on Facebook and Instagram as @authorsarahhanks, or connect with her on sarah-hanks.com. She also loves to combat the swarm of negativity with hope-filled emails.  You can sign up for her email list here.

Christmas, Characters and Diabetes by Ann Brodeur

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Christmas, Characters and Diabetes

By Ann Brodeur

One of my favourite seasons of the year is Christmas. There isn’t much I don’t like about it: music, lights, decorated trees, watching children open presents, attending the church children’s presentations and Christmas Eve candlelight service, and sledding in the snow.

Then, of course the other things I like about the season are:

Gingerbread Houses. Shortbread cookies. Candy Canes. Hot Chocolate. Chocolate truffles. Molasses cookies. Cut-out sugar cookies loaded with icing and candy balls.

Tourtière, a selection of specialty cheeses and a Bûche de Noël.

Turkey. Cranberry Sauce. Mashed, sweet potatoes.

And homemade egg nog.

Have I made you hungry yet?

In my 2020 debut novel, SNOWBOUND IN WINTERBERRY FALLS my heroine is a diabetic, but it doesn’t keep her from indulging once in a while. After all, Winterberry Falls, VT is the place to visit at Christmas with their month-long festival. You can bet cookies and gingerbread houses make an appearance. And some of the creations are pretty hard to resist. Even for a fictional character.

Why a diabetic character?

Well, I grew up watching my Type 1 diabetic grandmother inject herself with insulin. In fact, when I was a tween, I’d help fill her needles so she didn’t have to manage on her own during the days when she was alone. And during every one of my pregnancies, I was gestational diabetic. Christmas was a challenge those years, as I was born with a sweet tooth. Somehow leafy greens and cottage cheese missed the mark of Christmas treats.

All kidding aside, there are some great-tasting Christmas treats I discovered in magazines for diabetics that keep the glucose numbers in check. I may have made a recipe or….ten.

So when dreaming of characters for my novel, it made sense to include a character I could somewhat relate to. I try to bring some fun to the season in a healthy way for my heroine, compliments of our hero, but I also allow her the luxury of a special treat once in a while.

Are you, or someone you know, diabetic? What are your/their favourite treats to have at Christmas? For more information on Diabetes: American Diabetes Association | Research, Education, Advocacy

SNOWBOUND IN WINTERBERRY FALLS by Ann Brodeur

Unwrapping their past – one secret at a time.

Owning her own PR firm is all reporter Stephanie Clark wants for Christmas, but the idea of running a prestigious election campaign in the country’s capital throws her stomach into knots. A last minute vacation road trip to focus and seek God’s direction for her life ends up in disaster when she gets caught in the worst snowstorm to hit Vermont in over a decade, crashing her into a small town and the one person she’d rather forget.

Former photojournalist Jason Miller hadn’t planned on being solely responsible for saving his family business from financial ruin. He’s barely keeping the newspaper in print, his News Editor has gone AWOL during the town’s most celebrated holiday festival, and reports of missing Christmas decorations have everyone on edge.

When a desperate knock at the newsroom door brings a ghost from Christmas past back into his life, can Jason make up for his prior behavior without breaking his promise to Stephanie’s father? Will Stephanie’s quest to solve the town’s Christmas caper—and uncover the truth about Jason’s disappearance—cost her everything she’s ever wanted?

ANN BRODEUR is an award-winning novelist who writes inspirational and contemporary romances offering sweet hope and happy endings.

When she’s not reading, writing, chasing after her kids or enjoying long chats with her husband, Ann can be found drinking coffee. That’s been reheated several times throughout the day. She aspires to drink a hot beverage in one sitting.

SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS:

Join other readers in finding out the latest news from Ann and for bookish fun, by signing up for my newsletter on my website: https://brodeurwrites.org/

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GoodReads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/20786619.Ann_Brodeur

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/ann-brodeur

Amazon: https://www.amazon.ca/Ann-Brodeur

Library Thing: https://www.librarything.com/author/brodeurann

SNOWBOUND IN WINTERBERRY FALLS Purchase links:

Ebook Canada: https://amzn.to/3529fZe 

Ebook US: https://amzn.to/3p48B5y

Paperback: https://bit.ly/36aKN7h

Fiction Finder: December 2021 New Releases

December 2021 New Releases

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

Contemporary – General:

Broken Together by Brenda S. Anderson — Jennifer and Chad Taylor had dreamed of opening a coffee and cocoa shop since before they said, “I do.” When Chad is sent to prison for murder despite claiming innocence, that dream—along with their family—is shattered. After years of fighting for Chad’s release, Jennifer finally breaks free from her shame, anger, and hopelessness, and forges ahead with the dream the two of them once shared. With the help of their college-aged twins, she begins to move forward. Without Chad. When their lawyer arrives with news of evidence that may prove Chad’s innocence, a strange mixture of emotions overtakes her. Does she want Chad to return home? He isn’t the same man he once was, and she certainly isn’t the same woman. She’s worked hard to piece the remnants of their family back together, and his coming home could fracture the family once again. (General Contemporary, Independently Published)

Contemporary Romance:

Healing Skye by Janet W. Ferguson –People can’t be trusted.
Animals always made more sense than humans did to marine biologist Skye Youngblood. After her mother’s suicide, she left Alabama and never looked back. These days, she pours her heart into protecting nature’s sea creatures. When she returns to Dauphin Island, Alabama, for a temporary manatee migration study, her dark past is much too close. She can’t let her guard down. But how can she keep her heart hidden when a kind man with a genuine smile makes her want a fresh start? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

No Place Like Home by Amy R. Anguish — Roots are overrated, at least to someone like Adrian Stewart, preacher’s kid, who has never lived anywhere longer than six years. That’s why her job with MidUSLogIn, Inc. is so perfect for her—lots of travel and staying nowhere long enough to have it feel like home. But when work takes her to Memphis, TN, closer to her family for the first time in years, and in the same small office as Grayson Roberts, she starts to question her job, her lack of home, and even her memories of her rocky past with the church. Gray is intrigued by Adrian from the moment he sees her, and he’s determined to get to the bottom of why this girl who loves old movies and hums when she works won’t go to church with him. As they grow closer, he wants more, too, but how can he convince her to stay in Memphis when she doesn’t believe in home—or God? Can he use his own broken past to break through hers? (Contemporary Romance from Scrivenings Press)

Reclaiming Hope by Carolyn Miller — Callie Steele might be a bit… focused on work, but despite what her employers say, she enjoys her well-ordered, productive life. When she’s sent to meet the owners of an estate requiring post-hurricane landscaping, Callie meets their son, Kai Brody, a super-chilled pro surfer, who is as opposite from her as they come. Though initially smitten, Callie knows a relationship with Kai is a bad idea—a very bad idea. Kai, however, can’t help but be intrigued by someone who challenges him to make something of his life again. He’s determined to pursue her, if she’ll give him half a chance. The more time they spend together, negotiating the challenges of work, illness, and family, the more their opposing outlooks clash and connect. What do these unlikely friends really want from life? Is it best to focus on work or recreation? As Kai and Callie answers from the Lord, they also must consider if such complete opposites have enough in common to make a relationship last. (Contemporary Romance from Celebrate Lit)

The Breakup Project by Carolyn Miller –As the twin sister of hockey’s hottest forward, romance-loving Bree Karlsson is used to being ignored, leading to a New Year’s resolution to not date any athlete in her attempt to find Mr. Right. But what happens when the man who might prove to be her personal Mr. Darcy is her brother’s hockey-playing best friend? Mike Vaughan might be happy playing in Boston, but he’d be even happier if Bree could one day see him as more than a good friend. He agrees to help Bree with a special project in the hope she’ll finally see him as something more. But when a misunderstanding ends in a Valentine’s Day disaster, Bree realizes that her breakup project may have broken her friendship with Mike in two. Can she ever redeem her mistake? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Their Yuletide Healing by Mindy Obenhaus — Foster mom Rae Girard’s determined to make her children’s first Christmas with her the best they’ve ever had—and she’s shocked when the town scrooge, attorney Cole Heinsohn, offers to pitch in. Rae’s young charges have melted Cole’s heart, and he wants them to experience the special day he never had. But when disaster strikes, an imperfect holiday might bring them something better: a family… (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

General Historical:

Elinor by Shannon McNear — In 1587, Elinor White Dare sailed from England heavy with her first child but full of hopes. Her father, a renowned artist and experienced traveler, has convinced her and her bricklayer husband Ananias to make the journey to the New World. Land, they are promised, more goodly and beautiful than they can ever imagine. But nothing goes as planned from landing at the wrong location, to facing starvation, to the endless wait for help to arrive. And, beyond her comprehension, Elinor finds herself utterly alone. The colony at Roanoke disappeared into the shadows of history. But what if one survived to leave a lasting legacy? (General Historical from Barbour Publishing)

What Matters Most by Carol Ashby — For ten years, the incorruptible Tribune Titianus enforced Rome’s laws. He’s four days from leaving the Urban Cohort to teach at his brother-in-law Kaeso’s school when Emperor Hadrian and the Praetorian Prefect draft him to secretly investigate and thwart an assassination plot…one that might involve his own commander. He can’t refuse, but if Hadrian’s enemies discover his Christian faith, will it mean death for everyone he loves? The new tribune Glabrio wants two things as Titianus trains him: to discover for their commander who Titianus is investigating and to gain the support of Titianus’s powerful relatives. Marrying Sabina would secure the backing of her grandfather, but because of the teacher, she’s making choices no noblewoman should. As he gets closer to both his goals, will he realize in time what matters most? (General Historical from Cerrillo Press)

Romance Novella:

A Covert Cowboy Christmas by Carol James — A December ice storm destroys Rebekah Kingston’s Christmas plans. With the power out and the West Texas roads closed indefinitely, she’s forced to spend Christmas at her brother Braden’s ranch instead of at home with her parents. But Rebekah and Braden are not alone. Also stranded is an annoyingly chatty ranch hand, Dirk Sims. While Rebekah is certain she’s met him before, Dirk insists she’s mistaken. 
However, when Rebekah inadvertently eavesdrops on one of Dirk’s phone conversations, she discovers his lie. Dirk is not who he seems. This Christmas just got interesting. (Romance Novella from White Rose Publishing (Pelican))

Suspense/Thriller:

Buried Cold Case Secrets by Sami A. Abrams — She can’t remember and he can’t forget. When a killer targets Melanie, it is only through her determination to relive the past and Jason’s willingness to let go of his resentment, can they find his sister’s killer and keep Melanie alive. (Thriller/Suspense from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

Stealth Insurgence by Vikki Kestell — Nanostealth | Book 5: Jayda and Zander are returning to Albuquerque, satisfied that they have completed the mission for which President Jackson called them to Washington DC. They are filled with hope for the future, bursting with joy for the unborn child Jayda carries, and keen to share the news of their blessing with those they love: Abe, Emilio, Dr. Bickel, Zander’s parents, and his sister, Izzie. They arrive in Albuquerque on a notable date: the one-year anniversary of General Cushing’s attack on Dr. Bickel’s lab hidden within the tunnels of the old Manzano Weapons Storage Facility. It was the same attack that incited the nanomites to take up occupancy in Gemma Keyes—now Jayda Cruz —the extraordinary event that will continue to impact their lives forever. (Thriller/Suspense, Independently Published)

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

 

  Hidden Danger by Jerusha Agen, The greatest threat to this K-9 team is the one they don’t see coming. (Thriller/Suspense)

 

  Footprints on Her Heart by Tabitha Bouldin, He’s saving the world, one animal at a time. (Contemporary Romance)

 

  A Christmas Home for Hannah by Joi Copeland, A rancher in need of a wife or he loses his everything. A promise to her grandfather to be a mail order bride just may be unfulfilled. (Historic Romance)

 

  An Awestruck Christmas Medley by Emily Conrad, Four hundred miles of snow-covered terrain stand between the men of Awestruck and a Christmas with loved ones. (Contemporary Romance)

 

  Rachel’s Road to Love – Great Smoky Mountain Getaways by Elsie Davis, Escape to the Great Smoky Mountains… Rachel trusts God’s plan for her life, but did that plan really include being left at the altar?
(Contemporary)

 

  The Corporal’s Codebook by Susan Page Davis, Jack Miller stumbles through the Civil War, winding up a telegrapher and cryptographer for the army. In the field with General Sherman in Georgia, he is captured along with his precious cipher key. (General Historical)

 

  Grace Beneath the Frost by Christine Dillon, Professional success. Personal failure. (General Contemporary)

 

  The Christmas Family by Linda Goodnight, With the holidays in sight, Brady wonders if his own Christmas wish could come true… (Contemporary Romance)

 

  Gifts: A Christmas Novella by Jeanette Hanscome, When the party guests include faces from her past, Justine must decide whether to keep running or receive a gift that might free her to give much more than her beautifully wrapped presents. (General Contemporary)

 

  Harper’s Hollers by Ruth Kyser, Will God bring them together as more than friends—or will circumstances beyond their control keep them apart? (Contemporary Romance)