Julie Arduini's Blog, page 31

Deck the Soul with Boughs of Forgiveness by MaryAnn Diorio, PhD, MFA

“Deck the Soul with Boughs of Forgiveness”

by MaryAnn Diorio, PhD, MFA

(AUTHOR’S NOTE: I originally wrote this article one Christmas, but I believe it applies throughout the year.)

CHRISTMAS! The word evokes many feelings, depending on our experiences. For some, Christmas is a happy time, filled with beautiful memories and joyful expectations. For others, Christmas is a depressing time, a season one wants “to get over with” as quickly as possible because of bad memories associated with this time of year.

Having ministered to people for many years, I have come to the conclusion that depressing memories at Christmas time are most often related to problems of unforgiveness. Hurts from the past become more pronounced during the Christmas season, but the reason those hurts still affect us is that we have not let go of the bitterness associated with them. In short, we have not forgiven the people who have hurt us.

Why do most people have such a difficult time forgiving? I believe the main reason is that they do not understand what forgiveness really means. If you are one of those people, what follows may help you:

LET’S LOOK AT WHAT FORGIVENESS IS NOT:

• Forgiveness is NOT letting someone off the hook.

• Forgiveness is NOT condoning evil.

• Forgiven is NOT being a doormat.

• Forgiveness is NOT having to trust again the person who hurt you.

• Forgiveness is NOT a feeling.

• Forgiveness is NOT an option.

NOW LET’S LOOK AT WHAT FORGIVENESS IS:

• Forgiveness IS taking the person who hurt you off of your hook and placing him on God’s hook, then praying that God will have mercy on him.

• Forgiveness IS acknowledging that evil was done but choosing to bear the consequences of that evil without retaliation.

• Forgiveness IS taking charge of your emotions.

• Forgiveness IS setting boundaries with the person who hurt you, even refusing temporary or permanent interaction with that person, if necessary. An example would be a wife who is being beaten by her husband.

• Forgiveness IS a decision.

• Forgiveness IS obedience to God’s commandment to forgive.

No matter how badly you have been hurt, choose to forgive. It’s the best thing you can do for your own well-being. Unforgiveness chains you emotionally to the person who hurt you. Forgiveness breaks that chain and sets you free.

MaryAnn Diorio, Phd

What better time is there than the Christmas season to forgive those who have hurt us? The very essence of Christmas is the truth that God forgave humanity through the shed blood of Jesus Christ. Who are we not to forgive when God has forgiven us?

So this Christmas, forgive! But don’t just forgive. Ask to be forgiven. As the Word of God tells us, “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). All of us need not only to forgive but also to be forgiven. And as long as we are on this earth, it is never too late to forgive or to be forgiven.

____________________________________________________

Copyright 2015-2021 by MaryAnn Diorio, PhD. All Rights Reserved.

MaryAnn Diorio is a widely published, award-winning author of five novels, two novellas, and eight children’s books. Her novel, In Black and White, won First Place in Historical Fiction in the 2020 Christian Indie Awards Contest. MaryAnn’s latest novel, Miracle in Milan, takes the reader on a tension-filled journey back in Italy, where MaryAnn’s trilogy, The Italian Chronicles, also took place.  MaryAnn is married to her awesome husband of 51 years. They have two amazing adult daughters, a very smart son-in-law, and six rambunctious grandchildren. When not writing, MaryAnn loves to read, play the piano and mandolin, and make up silly songs with her grandchildren. You can learn more about MaryAnn and her writing at h ttps://www.maryanndiorio.com

Title: Miracle in Milan – A Novel

Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

Blurb: A young, female auditor discovers convincing evidence that the man she loves is an embezzler.

Purchase Links:

https://maryanndiorio.com/maryann-diorio-books/miracle-in-milan

Print: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0930037766/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1620312310&sr=8-1

Ebook: https://amzn.to/3nMCs29

Universal Link: https://books2read.com/u/3R8WLR

Amberly Neese Interview, Common Ground Part 2

Part 2 of an Interview
with Amberly Neese,
Author of Common Ground
  Q: What can we learn about Moses and his siblings about working together despite our differences?
 
Moses, Aaron, and Miriam grew to understand true leadership. They also understood they were stronger together. Moses was the shepherd, Aaron was the priest, and Miriam was the prophetess. Moses led the people physically, Aaron led them in the religious practices, and Miriam led them in song. Moses, Miriam, and Aaron were also not without weakness, but their teamwork has earned them a place in our hearts as leaders, pioneers, and example of people who worked hard to find common ground for God’s glory.
 
Q: How can we move from seeing things as a competition to appreciating the talents and contributions of others?
 
The first step, of course, is to decide to celebrate others. Moses and his siblings understood that asking for help, recognizing one cannot do it on his/her own, and practicing humility makes one stronger.
 
Moses and Aaron were both humble enough to work in tandem as the leaders of God’s people. The two brothers: God’s chosen prophet and shepherd, Moses, and God’s chosen high priest, Aaron, were not threatened by the other’s gifts. Moses was relieved when God called on Aaron to help shoulder the responsibility of speaking on behalf of God. 

Throughout their ministry, together and separate, they were not afraid to let the other shine. During the long journey of the Israelites in the wilderness, Aaron often took a backseat to his brother. Aaron was not always prominent or active; he often played a supporting role.
 
If we can learn from their example and choose to root for the rise of others, we begin to understand our connectedness as the Body of Christ.
 
Q: How does looking deeper into another’s situation help us to find common ground?
 
Looking more deeply into the life of another allows us to practice empathy and foster connection. If we are going to find common ground with our brothers and sisters in Christ, and frankly, with ourselves, we must put aside our judgment, keep our eyes on Jesus, and stop trying to earn His attention and affection. We can focus on that which we share—the forgiveness and love of God, our need for grace, our desire to know Him more, instead of our differences.
 
Q: Tell us a little bit about the format of the lessons in Common Ground —what do readers do on their own, then how does coming together as a group work?
 
For each week of the four-week study, there are personal lessons divided into five sections, or days, which participants may choose to complete each day or all at once depending on their schedules and preferences. In the participant’s guide, there is a Group Session Guide at the end of each week’s lessons to facilitate the session. In addition to these guides, the Group Session Guide Leader Notes provide additional helps including a main objective, key scripture references, and overview for each session. There is a 20-25 minute video for each week, available for purchase, that corresponds to each week’s study.
Common Ground: Loving Others Despite Our Differences
A Study of Sibling Rivalries in the Bible
By Amberly Neese
 
Available May 4, 2021 from Abingdon Women
Study Guide with Leader Helps: 9781791014506 / $16.99
DVD ISBN: 9781791014520 / $44.99About the Author Amberly Neese is a speaker, humorist, and encourager with a passion for “GRINspiring” others. As a featured speaker for the Aspire Women’s Events and the main host/comedienne for Marriage Date Night, two popular Christian events that tour nationally, she enjoys touching the hearts and minds and funny bones of people all over the country. The Bible says that laughter is good medicine, and she has found it’s also like glue—helping the truths of God’s Word to “stick.” Neese loves to remind women of the power and hope found in Scripture. Through a flair for storytelling and a love for Jesus, she candidly opens up her story alongside God’s Word to encourage others in their walk with Him.
 
With a master’s degree from Biola University, Neese serves as an adjunct professor at Grand Canyon University and the Master Connector for Inspiring Growth, an organization developed to equip and encourage growth in leaders and businesses. She is also the author of the women’s Bible studies Common Ground and The Belonging Project as well as the devotional The Friendship Initiative.
 
She and her husband, Scott, have two teenagers and live in Prescott, Arizona, where they enjoy the great outdoors, the Food Network, and all things Star Wars.
 
For more information, visit her website  www.amberlyneese.com . She is also active on Facebook (@Amberly Neese – Comedian/Speaker ), Twitter (@amberlyneese) , and Instagram (@amberlyneese) .

Emerald Secrets by Dawn Cahill

Hi, I’m Dawn, here to introduce you to Seattle Trilogy, featuring identical twins Livy and DeeDee McCreary, who double up their ingenuity to solve mysterious deaths – past, present, and future. Their father, Howard McCreary, plays a prominent role in Book 3, Emerald Secrets. His daughters must answer the question, who hates their father enough to try to kill him? And why?

In this excerpt, Howard, who is partially deaf after years of rock-band touring, finds normal conversation difficult without his hearing aids. He is about to enter the scariest park in Seattle, Freeway Park, for a rendezvous with… well, you’ll just have to read it for yourself.

Howard pulled his fleece vest tighter around his middle as he hurried along a cobblestoned path. The streetlamp cast eerie shadows onto the geometric concrete pillars—great slabs of granite stacked like enormous Tetris cubes. Like a sci-fi movie set, the blocks formed deep shadows the homeless folks could hide in, where they could see without being seen. Definitely a gnarly place. Freeway Park straddled Interstate 5, thus the name. The landscaped expanse with its waterfalls and grassy plazas hid the ribbon of vehicles speeding along beneath it. Even without his hearing aid, the ever-present hum vibrated under Howard’s feet and into his partially deaf ears. During the day, the towering pillars and steep staircases with their blind corners lured visitors to explore. Tonight, the sign behind him warned that the park closed at ten p.m. and trespassers would be prosecuted.

He checked the time—sixteen minutes to closing. Time to head up the stairs to the meeting spot. Bro wanted to meet after dark before the park closed. But Howard had to wonder, why this park? And why this specific spot?

From the park’s upper sidewalk, he peered over a rail into black nothingness. As he recalled, the city had built a shallow pond at the bottom of this slab. He’d wrinkled his nose against the acidic smell of urine, an even stronger odor than in Waterfront Park when he scoped out the meeting site earlier today. Homeless men and women had lain on the grass, cocooned in sleeping bags, comforted by their meager piles of stuff. The concrete was littered with needles, food cartons, and wine bottles as broken as those who consumed them. Someone had thrown a battered old mattress into the pond, which elicited raised eyebrows from him. Who would throw their bed into the water? Perhaps a misguided attempt to clean it? Or, more likely, a drugged stupor.

Movement registered from the corner of his vision. There, over by the trees, someone furtive came his way. Dressed all in black.

Howard, his heartbeat galloping, didn’t dare breathe. The man stopped and looked around, finally spotting Howard.

As before, his nemesis spoke not a word as the items changed hands. Howard checked the video’s label, then tucked it under his jacket, expecting Bro to turn and disappear into the dark night. Instead, he leaned in, inches from Howard’s face.

“Bayback dime.” Bro’s beery whisper punched Howard with unexpected force. Smelling danger for the first time, he didn’t realize he’d backed away until he felt the hard railing dig into the seat of his jeans.

“What?”

“Pay. Back. Time.” Bro spit the words. “Four bribe roadie.”

“Huh?” Howard grabbed the rail behind him as he tipped precariously backward. Four bribe roadie?

“Don’t blay dumb.”

That voice. Even disguised behind all that rasp, it triggered a vague memory. “What’re you talking about?”

Bro thrust his face closer. “Mife…” A truck roaring by on Seneca drowned out the rest. Despite his desperate grip on the rail, Howard’s shoulders inched closer to the precipice.

“’S for him.” With a mighty shove, Bro sent Howard tumbling over the rail, into the abyss beyond. As if in a dream, he felt himself plummet… down…down.

Drab concrete rushed by. The drop seemed to take an eternity.

As he flailed wildly for anything to grab onto, a dawning awareness pummeled his brain like a blaring alarm clock.

He was going to die.

I hope you enjoyed this quick glimpse into Emerald Secrets. If you’re the least bit intrigued by Freeway Park now, click here for an up close and personal tour!

Dawn V. Cahill

Author of Seattle Trilogy and Golden State Trilogy

HOT TOPIC CHRISTIAN FICTION

2015 Genesis contest semi-finalist

2015 First Impressions finalist

Links:

Amazon Author page

Website

Facebook

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My books – https://dawnvcahill.com/my-books/

Bio:

Dawn V. Cahill, an indie author from the land of hipsters and coffee snobs, writes “Stories of Victorious Faith for the 21st Century,” nearly always with a crossword puzzle, sudoku, or dark chocolate nearby. “The characters in my stories face situations that would have been unthinkable even 20 years ago. We live in a vastly different world than our parents did, and that’s the world I write about.”

Ms. Cahill also blogs about puppies, substance abuse, and single parenting…sometimes all in the same day. She has written several newspaper articles, five Christian contemporary novels, and more limericks than she can count. Email her at dawn@dawnvcahill.com, or find her on Facebook. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW).

What’s Your Foundation?

If you look back at my own blog posts, you’ll see a thread. It’s tiny and quiet, but it’s there.

I’m trying to get the world’s attention.

One picture I have in mind is because a friend is building a house. It’s been full of delays but recently she announced the concrete foundation was being poured.

Concrete.

That’s a resource that’s going to withstand everything that happens to the actual house. Winds. Rains. Adverse conditions.

When I visited the Outer Banks years ago, those homes looked like they were built on stilts. It’s called pilings (http://coastalcottageobx.com/coastal-outer-banks-pile-foundations/) and done so because of the frequent flooding. They are a hurricane zone so to build on ground level would bring devastation.

There’s a verse in the Bible that talks about foundation.

“Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand.  And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.”

Matthew 7:24-27, ESV

Friends, we are quickly approaching a time where you need to claim your foundation. If you choose the things of this world—money, people, things—none of it in itself a bad thing—but if it is your foundation, what drives you, what IS you—you’re going to fold like a pyramid of cards when a fan turns on. How do I know? I’ve seen it. And I know, KNOW hard times are coming.

I believe we will experience events that will test our character and strength. We will learn things that will horrify and devastate us. It will be so earth shattering to your core that if you live on the sand foundation, your recovery will be long, hard, and heartbreaking.

For those with a concrete foundation, those are the ones that have hitched their wagon to the reality that is Christ. Of all the promises in the Bible, every single one has come to pass in its time. That’s not a coincidence. Where other people, gods, and causes act like you matter, Jesus literally died without sin because He cared that much for you. His love is so great that even as He returned to heaven He made sure we would not be alone. For those that have professed Jesus is real and the Savior they want in their life, the Holy Spirit is our guide, encouragement, teacher, counselor and friend. I don’t see that anywhere else.

A word to those who have concrete in their foundation. Look for cracks. It’s easy to get comfortable and sit with arms crossed and judge the others. I’ve been there. A time is coming when you should rise up and lend a hand. People will be hurting. Will you comfort them? Will you help those in need? Do you just talk the Christian life or do you live it?

I know this post isn’t as fun as what I like to post, but it’s only because I sense the urgency.

If your motivation is a job, person, home, car, food, addiction, finances, purchases, vacations—you get me—dust off the sand and start pouring the concrete.

A lot of people resist concrete because they can’t process that Jesus died without sin and yet all that’s required of us is to admit our sins, believe everything the Bible says, and confess those sins. Many think they have to get perfect first, or that Jesus will be in the sky, arms folded and eyes rolling because of their choices.

Jesus offers a changed life because He wants you to live free. That’s often a process, and there is His grace and love throughout. If you choose to stay the same, you have that right. The arms of Christ are wide open.

You can say something like this:

Heavenly Father, I believe You are God. That You sent Your son to Earth through a virgin birth and that Jesus lived among the people as man, and sinless. I believe He was crucified not for His sins, but mine. I also know that He rose on the third day and is alive, seated in heaven, ready to return as King of Kings. I want to know Him in a personal way. I ask Jesus into my life and that the Holy Spirit would help me in all things from this point forward. Thank You. I know now my name is in the Book of Life. I’ll never have the right words to say how thankful I am. In the name of Jesus, Amen and Amen.

Fiction Finder: ACFW June 2021 New Releases

June 2021 New Releases

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

Contemporary Romance:

A Chance for the Newcomer by Lisa Carter — She’s stirring things up…A big-city chef. A small-town single dad. And matchmakers with marriage in mind… Chef Kara Lockwood didn’t think changing a small-town diner’s menu would cause a boycott, but the locals sure do love their apple pie—especially fire chief Will MacKenzie. Kara’s not sure she and the single father can ever learn to live peacefully as neighbors. But even as they clash over pastries, local matchmakers and Will’s little boy are determined to bring their stubborn hearts together. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

His Secret Daughter by Laurie Larsen — he had the perfect life all on her own …Alyssa Stark works hard to make her life’s dreams come true … all on her own. She built her reputation as New York City’s top advertising executive, client by client. And when her ill-advised marriage didn’t work out, she knew she had to make her dream of becoming a mother happen by untraditional means. Now, she and her eight-year-old daughter Caroline are living the dream life in the Big Apple.

He’d lost everything that meant anything until he made a discovery …Grant Fontaine is the widowed president of his father-in-law’s electronics company. Since the tragic death of his pregnant wife a decade ago, he’s become a high achieving businessman, but a social hermit. Several years ago, his lonely life took on new meaning when he discovered that the donation he’d made to a reproductive clinic long ago had sired a child. Through the services of a discreet private eye unafraid to push legal limits, he identifies his “daughter,” Caroline, and her mother, Alyssa. Could it be time to reveal his secret? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Always a Wedding Planner by Davalynn Spencer, R.L. Ashely, LeeAnn Betts, Toni Shiloh — Love Is Only Business for 4 Wedding Planners Discover how keeping secrets from each other threatens four women’s friendships, wedding business, and their own ability to find love in Loveland, Colorado. Business partners Felicity Anderson, the cake baker; Kiki Bell, the seamstress; Cassie Blackthorn, the coordinator; and Chef Saffron Delarosa are best of friends in a town that is a romantic wedding destination for many couples—who work together at Weddings by Design to make every bride’s special day perfect. Could each falling into their own romance be the key to working out their differences and learning to trust each other—and God—with their futures? (Contemporary Romance from Barbour Publishing)

Matched Hearts by Cathe Swanson — She’s looking for a “Plus One” for her parents’ anniversary party. He’s looking for “Happily Ever After.” When a matchmaking agency pairs them up, is it a computer error or a match made in heaven?Eleanor Nielson always wanted to follow in her distinguished parents’ footsteps, becoming a teacher and living a life of selfless community service – until she tried it. Now, she’s run away to find herself and decide what she wants to do with the rest of her life, but she can’t skip her parents’ anniversary party, and she needs a date. Can a matchmaking agency find her a fake boyfriend who will impress her parents? Mechanical engineer David Reid has his life all planned out, and he’s ready for the next phase: a loving wife who will share his faith and work at his side when he becomes a pastor. But a good woman is hard to find, so like any good engineer, David turns the project over to experts: an online matchmaking agency. The pretty, blond teacher with denim blue eyes seems like a match made in heaven. Or is she too good to be true? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Plot Twist by Bethany Turner — February 4, 2003, is just another day for Olivia Ross—a greeting card writer whose passion project is a screenplay of her own. After she and a handsome, struggling actor have a near-magic encounter in a coffee shop, they make a spontaneous pact: in ten years, after they’ve found the success they’re just sure they’re going to achieve, they’ll return to the coffeehouse to partner up and make a film together. The only problem? Olivia neglected to get the stranger’s name. But she doesn’t forget the date. For the next ten years, every February 4, Olivia has an exceptional day, full of coincidences and ironies. As men come and go and return to her life, and as she continues to write her screenplay, she still wonders about the guy from the coffee shop—the nameless actor she’s almost certain was Hamish MacDougal, now a famous member of the Hollywood elite. But a lot can happen in ten years, and while waiting for the curtain to rise on her fate, the true story of Olivia’s life is being written—and if she’s not careful, she’ll completely miss the epic romance playing out right before her eyes. (Contemporary Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing (Thomas Nelson and Zondervan))

Historical:

More Than Honor by Carol Ashby — Devotion to duty and dogged determination make Tribune Titianus the most feared investigator of the Urban Cohort. Honor drives him to hunt down anyone who breaks Roman law, but it becomes personal when Lenaeus, his old tutor, is murdered in his own classroom. Why kill a respected teacher of the noble sons of Rome, a man who has nothing worth stealing and no known enemies? Had he learned something too dangerous to let him live? Pompeia was only a girl when Titianus studied with Father before her family became Christians. She and her brother Kaeso can’t move their school from the house where their father was killed. But what if the one who killed Father comes to kill again? Kaeso’s friend Septimus insists they spend nights at his father’s well-guarded home. But danger lurks there as well. As Titianus hunts for the murderer, will he discover their secret faith and arrest them as enemies of the Empire? (Historical from Cerrillo Press)

The Dream Weaver’s Bride: Asenath’s Story by Janelle Hovde — As the daughter of the high priest of On, Asenath has a solid vision of her future. Her education with the royal scribe is a luxury not usually afforded to women, and even though she is betrothed to the pharaoh’s half-brother, she has dreams of something more. But everything changes when the pharaoh has troubling nightmares that only a prisoner named Joseph can interpret. Suddenly, Asenath finds herself married to this foreigner, who demands that no god but his own be worshipped in his house. Despite her fears, Asenath is touched by Joseph’s kindness and humility, even as he steps into his newfound power. Can Asenath trust the God of Joseph and forsake her old deities? Can she learn to love this stranger from another land, a stranger with scars from a painful past? As a famine sweeps across Egypt and the surrounding lands, Asenath and Joseph find themselves face-to-face with the men who caused Joseph’s suffering. Can Asenath embrace the power of El Shaddai and help her husband forgive? (Historical from Guideposts Publications)

Historical Romance:

Faith in the Mountain Valley by Misty M. Beller — After eleven years spent looking for the girl who stole his heart, Jean-Jacques Baptiste-better known as French to his friends-is tempted to give up. Until the day he spotted the flaxen-haired stranger traveling the wooded path with Blackfoot Indians. He never imagined he’d find his childhood friend masquerading as a man in this Rocky Mountain wilderness, hundreds of miles from the Canadian town where he last saw her. No matter her reasons, he can’t let her go this time. From a USA Today bestselling author comes another epic journey through breathless landscapes and adventure so intense, lives will never be the same.
(Historical Romance, Independently Published)

The Captain’s Quest by Lorri Dudley — Pricilla Middleton only attended the Lemoore house party to keep her friend out of trouble. Now, her only chance to keep from becoming a gossip column headline is to sneak aboard her brother’s ship and pretend she’d been visiting him instead of taking part in the debacle. Before she can speak to her brother, the ship sets sail, and the man in charge is not at all who she expects. Captain Tobias Prescott, son of an infamous war hero, has been assigned on a critical mission to deploy warships in St. Kitts for battle in New Orleans. Unfortunately, his orders require him to assume command of a friend’s ship, and he must weigh anchor the instant the former captain is escorted down the gangplank. When they reach open waters, the last thing he expects is to find a woman hiding in the captain’s cabin, yet his mission is too urgent to return her to England. (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)

Along a Storied Trail by Ann H. Gabhart — Kentucky packhorse librarian Tansy Calhoun doesn’t mind the rough trails and long hours as she serves her Appalachian mountain community during the Great Depression. Yet she longs to find love like the heroines in the books she loves. When a charming writer comes to town, she thinks she might have found it—or is the perfect man actually closer than she thinks? Perdita Sweet has called these mountains home for so long that she’s nearly as rocky as the soil around her small cabin. Long ago she thought she could love, but when the object of her affection up and married someone else, she stopped giving too much of herself away to others. As is so often the case, it’s easier to see what’s best for others than to see what’s best for oneself. Perdita knows who Tansy should choose, but why would anyone listen to the romantic advice of an old spinster? (Historical Romance from Revell – A Division of Baker Publishing Group)

To Find Her Place by Susan Anne Mason — In the midst of WWII, Jane Linder, a childless divorcée, puts all her energy into her career at the Toronto Children’s Aid Society. As acting directress, Jane hopes to be awarded the position permanently so she can continue making a difference in the lives of troubled children. Garrett Wilder has been hired to overhaul operations at the Children’s Aid Society. He hopes to impress the board members with his findings and earn the vacant director’s position. A war injury ended his dream of taking over his parents’ farm, but with the security of the director’s job, he’d be able to contribute financially and help save the family business. As Garrett works closely with Jane, he comes to admire her tenacity and her dedication to the children. Just as feelings begin to blossom between them, her ex-husband returns from overseas with an unexpected proposition that could fulfill Jane’s deepest desires. With the odds stacked against them, can Garrett and Jane navigate the obstacles to their relationship and find lasting love? (Historical Romance from Bethany House (Baker) Publishing)

A Bride for Keegan by Linda Shenton Matchett — Fiona Quigley’s parents came to America for a better life, but illness and the Civil War took them from her. Now, she’s barely scraping by as a seamstress to Boston’s elite. A chance for a new start arises in the form of being a mail-order bride, but to her dismay she must marry the man by proxy. Once they’re wed, there will be no turning back. After being jailed one too many times for protesting against the Unionists in Ireland, Keegan O’Rourke heads for America—land of the free. He takes advantage of the Homestead Act to create a farm in his new country, but he has no one to share his success, so he advertises for a mail-order bride. They wed by proxy, but after she arrives, he discovers his Irish lass hails from the northern reaches of the Emerald Isle – the very area he fled. (Historical Romance from Shortwave Press)

On Sugar Hill by Ane Mulligan — She traded Sugar Hill for Vaudeville. Now she’s back. The day Cora Fitzgerald turned sixteen, she fled Sugar Hill for the bright lights of Vaudeville, leaving behind her senator-father’s verbal abuse. But just as her career takes off, she’s summoned back home. And everything changes. The stock market crashes. The senator is dead. Her mother is delusional, and her mute Aunt Clara pens novels that have people talking. Then there’s Boone Robertson, who never knew she was alive back in high school, but now manages to be around whenever she needs help. Will the people of her past keep her from a brilliant future?
(Historical Romance from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas)

No Journey Too Far by Carrie Turansky — In 1909, Grace McAlister set sail for Canada as one of the thousands of British Home Children taken from their families and their homeland. Though she is fortunate enough to be adopted by wealthy parents, the secrets of her past are kept hidden for ten years until someone from her long-buried childhood arrives on her doorstep. With this new connection to her birth family, will she be brave enough to leave her sheltered life in Toronto and uncover the truth? After enduring hardship as an indentured British Home Child, Garth McAlister left Canada to serve in World War I. His sweetheart, Emma Lafferty, promised to wait for his return, but after three long years apart, her letters suddenly stopped. When Garth arrives home from the war to unexpected news, he is determined to return to Canada once more on a daunting mission to find the two women he refuses to abandon—his long-lost sister and his mysteriously missing sweetheart. (Historical Romance from Waterbrook/Multnomah (Random House))

A Life Redeemed by Olivia Rae — Upon Queen Elizabeth’s order, Audrey Hayes travels to the borderlands of Scotland to learn where the fierce Laird Armstrong’s loyalties lie. Is he aligned with his mother’s English roots in support of the queen, or does he hold with the beliefs of his father, who wishes to see Mary of Scots on the English throne? The fate of Audrey’s family rests on her success in finding the answer. After losing his lands in a wager and being betrayed by his kin, Gavin Armstrong entered a loveless marriage to obtain the funds to buy back his family home, Warring Tower. Now a widower, struggling against countless border wars, he is on the verge of losing his home and lands again. With few resources, he reluctantly makes another risky wager, one he cannot hope to win without trusting the secretive Audrey Hayes, a woman he suspects is an English spy. (Historical Romance from HopeKnight Press)

Speculative/Science Fiction:

The Chase by Bradley Caffee — in the Chase. Be the hero. Or die trying. The chaos and anarchy following the Great Collapse nearly brought the world to its knees until the unchanging Law brought order and peace. Generations later, the twelve alliances of the World Coalition come together once a year to allow their best and brightest young people to compete in the Chase. The prize? A chance to pass exactly one new law. The son of two former Chase runners, Willis Thomson is the top trainee in the Western Alliance. With the expectations of the world and his heritage driving him, he leads his elite Red Team as they prepare for his moment to become a coveted law-changer. Perryn Davis, the new leader of the Blue Team, struggles to survive as she competes as one of the designated losers. She knows that losing means genetic recoding, a process that cannot go on indefinitely, and longs to age out of the program before it kills her. When a mysterious new racer with knowledge of the outside shows up at their orbiting training center, the natural order of the Western Alliance trainees is upended. In a world where too much knowledge is dangerous, Willis and Perryn find themselves in a race to save their lives and uncover the hidden underbelly of the peaceful World Coalition. (Speculative/Science Fiction from Mountain Brook Fire)

Thriller/Suspense/Romance:

Cold Case Trail by Sharee Stover — Following the clues could be the last thing they do…
Temporarily working in the cold case division was supposed to mean less danger for state trooper Trey Jackson and his injured K-9 partner, Magnum—until they thwart an abduction. Now he must protect profiler Justine Stark, even as she blames him for her friend’s death ten years ago. Can he right past wrongs by finally solving the murder…and making sure Justine lives to find closure? (Thriller/Suspense/Romantic from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

Young Adult:

Aslan: Running Joy by Kristin Kaldahl — For fourteen-year-old Krissy, her new life maxim is pretty sad: First choices out. Second choices in. It’s been that way since dialysis left her disabled. Her limitations went from none to a ton, and now they stand in the way of her dream―to compete in dog agility with her runty sheltie pup, Aslan. (Young Adult from CrossLink Publishing)

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

 

  Love & Adventure by Elise Davis, What do baseball and true love have in common besides a diamond? Is that a trick question? (Contemporary)

 

  Miracle in Milan by MaryAnn Diorio, When a young, female auditor discovers evidence that the man she loves is an embezzler, she must choose between ruining herself or ruining him. (Thriller/Suspense/Romantic)

 

  Finding Home by Candee Fick, Two hearts longing for home. (Contemporary Romance)

 

  Love Found in Cranberry Cover by June Foster, Can Blake and Gracie learn who’s behind the danger that threatens them? Will a small-town girl and big-city boy find a life together? (Thriller/Suspense/Romantic)

 

  A Night Divine by Dawn Kinzer, One chilly December night, a tragedy connects Camryn and Trace, and the devastating experience spurs her into volunteering with his team. But as Christmas Eve approaches and the two grow closer, secrets have the potential to break someone’s heart. (Contemporary Romance)

 

  Let It Be Me by Becky Wade, The one woman he wants is the one he cannot have.
(Contemporary Romance)

Terry Overton: Both Sides of the Border

This debut novel by Terry Overton was the recipient of the Firebird Book Award for Cross-Genre, Socio-Political Fiction, and Women’s Fiction (April 2021).

Both Sides of the Border reveals the truth about the state of turmoil and threat in Mexico and the untold stories of immigrants, or “travelers” who bravely hopped aboard “el tren de le muerte” or the death train, otherwise called “La Bestia” or the beast. Often starving and afraid, the real-life travelers, assisted by the cartel, face the threat of death and injury or assault, almost daily. In the novel Both Sides of the Border, the fictional teens and their sister, jump aboard for the ride of a lifetime.

Dolores, Ernesto, and Emilio Sanchez are on a quest to America to find work and to save their family. Repeated droughts and a hurricane left their family farm unproductive. The Sanchez family, like so many others in Honduras, could no longer provide enough income to survive. A drastic change had to be made. With only their faith in God to see them through, the teenaged brothers and their twenty-year-old sister, set off for their new home and face threats from the cartel, corrupt police officers, starvation, and injury. Dolores relied on prayer and her own inner strength to protect her younger brothers on the journey.

Meanwhile, American Eva Jordan, shaking off scars from a disastrous marriage, is determined to start a new life by relocating from Virginia to the Texas side of border. Eva recently earned her Ph.D. and was now off to conquer the world and live a life of achievements and accolades. Despite her mother’s concern for her safety, Eva not only moves to Texas, but that very week she decides to take a vacation deep into Mexico to sharpen her Spanish before her new job begins. She boards a tour bus and soon meets a charming man who helps her to learn Spanish along the way. She is struck by the beautiful towns and people of Mexico, but slowly her eyes are opened to the dangers that are knocking at her front door.

Although their paths cross, Dolores and Eva do not meet until the end of their journeys-and then, after tragedies and near-death experiences, they realize they survived by God’s protection alone. The story is one of faith, strength, and character.

Excerpt

Eva clearly understood that her mother did not approve of her move or of “those liberal university people.”

“Oh, Mother,” Eva replied, “I’m sure there are conservatives and liberals in south Texas.”

“And don’t you know what is going on down there? I mean, those illegals come across every day. I saw on the news—” “

Mom, you have got to stop watching cable news all the time. You need to get out more and, you know, talk to people.”

“Oh, for goodness’ sakes. I see plenty of people! I see people at church and in the women’s prayer group. And even they are worried about you. And me talking to people? You’re one to talk,” her mother said, giving her “the look.”

“Okay, Mom. Let’s eat,” she said, trying to change the subject before her mother could

begin the “When are you going to start dating?” questions.

 “Seriously, honey, when are you going to date someone again?”

Too late, Eva thought.

“I know that scoundrel of a husband you had was just awful. But there are others out there just waiting to meet a nice girl like you. Plenty of men out there, you know.”

Eva’s divorce was still raw. She didn’t want to talk about that with her mother again. She was over that dark phase of her life. She was moving on to a better future.

“Mom, I’m hardly a girl. I’m twenty-nine you know,” she said, diverting the conversation.

“Of course, I know you’re twenty-nine. I was there when you were born.” They both laughed.

“This is delicious,” Eva said, taking another bite of mashed potatoes and chicken-fried steak totally smothered in gravy.

“I’ll bet you won’t get food like this down where you’re going,” her mother remarked, taking a second helping of potatoes.

“No, probably not, Mom.” Eva agreed with her mother to keep from going down the road of comparing Mexican food with Mom’s Southern cooking.

“So, as I was saying, when will you start dating? All of that hard work and studying is over. Now you will have time for a social life,” her mother said, patting Eva’s hand.

“We’ll see, Mom. You know I will have to work really hard now to get tenure.”

“Oh, good grief. Don’t use work as an excuse. There’s nothing like a good, strong marriage to help you through everything.”

Her mother talked about perfect marriages as if she’d had one. Eva’s own father had abandoned the family when Eva was quite young. Perhaps being raised by a single mother provided the foundation for her own autonomy. She’d been expected to take on responsibilities from an early age that did not burden most children. She was proud that she didn’t need anyone. She could achieve whatever she set her mind to.

You Tube Official Trailer Link

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Buy Links

Purchase also at Barnes and Noble:

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/both-sides-of-the-border-terry-overton/1137865498?ean=9781649600585

Bio

Terry Overton obtained her Ph.D. in Psychology and her Ed. D. in special education. She taught in public schools and was a school psychologist and a professor before retiring in 2016. Her university experiences included teaching at Longwood University in Virginia, the University of Texas-Brownsville, The University of Texas-Pan American, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, and Stephen F. Austin State University. She held positions as Dean and Department Chair during her tenure in higher education. Her areas of research included behavior disorders, learning disorders, autism, and research in higher education. She currently resides in Laguna Vista, Texas, near the Texas-Mexico border. She enjoys Biblical history and general Bible studies, writing, blogging, and playing golf.

Social Media Links

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/terry.overton.71653

WordPress Blog

https://terryovertonbooks.com

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Amberly Neese: Common Grounds, Part 1

In her new Bible study, Common Ground: Loving Others Despite Our Differences, author, speaker, and humorist Amberly Neese leads women in a study of sibling rivalries in Scripture so that all members of God’s family can find a safe place to come together to navigate conflict and heal relationships.
 
Whether it is in politics, the professional world, a party, or a pew, every person faces some kind of conflict on a daily basis. It’s not only in-person interactions that can become heated—social media is deluged with opinion-spewing, hurt feelings, and broken friendships. What we so desperately need is hope and practical tools to navigate the tumultuous waters in order to live at peace with everyone.Part 1 of an Interview
with Amberly Neese,
Author of Common Ground
  Q: These days it seems like people argue just for the sake of arguing rather than trying to find common ground. Do you have any theories on why every topic seems to be so polarizing?
 
Honestly, with feelings of isolation and disconnection at an all-time high, I think people try (albeit unsuccessfully) to cling to anything that feels secure to them—at the expense of the feelings and perspectives of others.
 
Much like an injured animal that tries, in their pain, to bite their rescuer, when we are feeling depleted and injured, we have a tendency to hurt others and undermine community in the process.
 
Q: Your Common Ground Bible study focuses on four pairs of Biblical siblings as examples for living at peace with others, even when you disagree. Who are the sets of siblings, and what lessons can we learn from each?
 
Fortunately for us, the scriptures hold the key to living at peace despite our differences in the stories of sibling rivalries in the Old and New Testaments. In Common Ground, we explore four sibling relationships and their lessons:
 
1.   Joseph and His Brothers: How to Combat Jealousy
2.   Moses, Miriam, and Aaron: How to Work Together Despite Differences
3.   Mary, Martha, and Lazarus: How to Appreciate the Contributions of Others
4.   Rachel and Leah: Having Compassion for the Plight of Others
 
Obviously, in Christ, we are called to live at peace with our brothers and sisters in the faith, so although there are direct lessons we can glean for getting along with actual family members, the scope of the study is for ALL of us in the family of God.
 
Q: The alternative to hashing out differences on someone’s social media post is to unfollow, unfriend, or snooze a friend for thirty days. Is that really a better solution to conflict when someone is truly a friend, not just an acquaintance?
 
The most loving thing we can do when we are having an issue with someone in our lives is to practice Matthew 18 and go to the person directly. Even if that person in only an acquaintance, the most effective (and probably uncomfortable) thing is to encourage them to do what is right. I think unfollowing/unfriending/snoozing can seem peaceful, but true peace comes with truth, not avoidance.
 
Q: It’s easy to pick up on jealousy in our kids, but is it as easy to identify in adults? How do we maturely mend fences and overcome those feelings as grown-ups?
 
If we are to find common ground on the battlegrounds of our hearts, our relationships, and our social media accounts, we must eradicate jealousy. We must take time to reflect on the goodness of God and the high value He has placed on each of us. We must learn to celebrate the awesomeness in others.  When we are willing to do that, it can help shape our interactions and relationships for the better.
 
We must be willing to take a fearless assessment of places in our hearts we might be harboring jealousy against another and confess it.
Common Ground: Loving Others Despite Our Differences
A Study of Sibling Rivalries in the Bible
By Amberly Neese
 
Available May 4, 2021 from Abingdon Women
Study Guide with Leader Helps: 9781791014506 / $16.99
DVD ISBN: 9781791014520 / $44.99https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XkapE...About the AuthorAmberly Neese is a speaker, humorist, and encourager with a passion for “GRINspiring” others. As a featured speaker for the Aspire Women’s Events and the main host/comedienne for Marriage Date Night, two popular Christian events that tour nationally, she enjoys touching the hearts and minds and funny bones of people all over the country. The Bible says that laughter is good medicine, and she has found it’s also like glue—helping the truths of God’s Word to “stick.” Neese loves to remind women of the power and hope found in Scripture. Through a flair for storytelling and a love for Jesus, she candidly opens up her story alongside God’s Word to encourage others in their walk with Him.
 
With a master’s degree from Biola University, Neese serves as an adjunct professor at Grand Canyon University and the Master Connector for Inspiring Growth, an organization developed to equip and encourage growth in leaders and businesses. She is also the author of the women’s Bible studies Common Ground and The Belonging Project as well as the devotional The Friendship Initiative.
 
She and her husband, Scott, have two teenagers and live in Prescott, Arizona, where they enjoy the great outdoors, the Food Network, and all things Star Wars.
 
For more information, visit her website  www.amberlyneese.com . She is also active on Facebook (@Amberly Neese – Comedian/Speaker ), Twitter (@amberlyneese) , and Instagram (@amberlyneese) .

When Valleys Bloom Again by Pat Jeanne Davis

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Q&A with Pat Jeanne Davis for Family Fiction Magazine, March 2020 Romance Issue

Q. What is the plot of When Valleys Bloom Again?

As war approaches in 1939 Abby Stapleton’s safety is under threat. Her father, a British diplomat, insists she go back to America until the danger passes. Abby vows to return to her home in London—but where is home? With her family facing mortal danger so far away and feeling herself isolated, she finds it hard to pray or read the Bible. Did she leave God behind in war-torn London too? Abby becomes friendly with Jim, a gardener on her uncle’s estate.

Jim can’t get Abby out of his mind. Did she have a sweetheart in England? Was it foolish to think she’d consider him? He curses his poverty and the disgrace of his father’s desertion and drunkenness haunts him. Can he learn to believe in love for a lifetime and to hope for a happy marriage?

Abby couldn’t know the war would last a long time, nor that she would fall in love with Jim—soon to be drafted by the U.S. Army—or that she’d have to confront Henri, a rejected suitor, determined by his lies to ruin her reputation and destroy her faith in God’s providence. Will she discover the true meaning of home and find happiness with Jim.        

Q. What inspired the story in your novel?

The opening for my WWII inspirational romancewas conceived after reading a biography on the life of Kathleen Kennedy, daughter of Joseph P. Kennedy, the United States Ambassador to the United Kingdom. He and his family were living in London when Britain declared war. Kathleen Kennedy’s story intrigued me. She was forced by her father to return to the US for her safety. Kathleen had made many friends while living in London and was determined to return some day. She eventually did go back, served in the British Red Cross, and married William Cavendish who was in line to become the next Duke of Devonshire. I based my protagonist, Abby Stapleton, loosely on Kathleen Kennedy’s situation at the outbreak of war in 1939. However, in this story Abby is the American-born daughter of a British diplomat. Her father sends her back to the US to escape impending war. She too vows to return to London.

Q. What were your goals writing this novel?

I’m a confirmed Anglophile living near many magnificent estates along the Philadelphia Main Line. I wanted to write an Anglo-American story set in the dark days of WWII, setting a portion of the story in my area and in Britain. A story that offers inspiration and hope.

There is continued interest in the World War II era evidenced by numerous current books and films. As the ranks of those who lived through this period get smaller, I wanted to highlight their lives in an instructive and entertaining way.

Q. What do you want readers to take away after reading this novel?

For those who love the Lord, all things work together for good. That with faith in Christ and submission to God’s will, we can be hopeful and steadfast in purpose during times of external and internal conflict. That ultimately good will prevail over evil. I hope readers will connect with the faith message in this story. That they will root for Abby and Jim and will be surprised with the twists in the plot.

Q. What are the challenges (or benefits) of writing “romances” as a Christian author?

In a world that places so much value on the material and the external, I seek as a Christian author to give God preeminence by weaving Him into my story. In my novel, When Valleys Bloom Again, I show how a couple from a different social class fall in love and grow in step with God’s plan for them as they live through the trauma of war on the home front and the battlefield. Abby and Jim are drawn together and changed by this event, while their relationship grows in depth and beauty.

When Valleys Bloom Again

As war approaches in 1939 Abby Stapleton’s safety is under threat. Her father, a British diplomat, insists she go back to America until the danger passes. Abby vows to return to her home in London—but where is home? With her family facing mortal danger so far away and feeling herself isolated, she finds it hard to pray or read the Bible. Did she leave God behind in war-torn London too? Then Abby becomes friendly with Jim, a gardener on her uncle’s estate.

Jim can’t get Abby out of his mind. Did she have a sweetheart in England? Was it foolish to think she’d consider him? He curses his poverty and the disgrace of his father’s desertion and drunkenness haunts him. Can he learn to believe in love for a lifetime and to hope for a happy marriage?

Abby couldn’t know the war would last a long time, nor that she would fall in love with Jim—soon to be drafted by the U.S. Army—or that she’d have to confront Henri, a rejected suitor, determined by his lies to ruin her reputation and destroy her faith in God’s providence. Will she discover the true meaning of home?

Excerpt:

Main Line Philadelphia

June 1940

Abby’s first year at Weston Teachers College over and classes out for the summer, she again offered to help out in the greenhouse. She’d overlook Jim’s response to her question two months ago on America joining the war and would work alongside him. She found him in the potting area, a large red, white, and blue handkerchief around his neck.

“I’m glad you’re here,” Jim said, grinning. He gestured toward empty ceramic pots on the ground. “I think we’ll tackle those, if that’s all right with you?”

Abby flashed a quick smile. Did he remember his curt reply back in April and her hasty departure afterwards? She squatted next to a jumble of ornamental containers.

Jim rummaged through them, then thrust his trowel into a bucket of thumb-sized stones. “About two inches of these should do.” He tipped the stones into one of the pots. “They provide slow drainage so the plant won’t dry out.” He crouched beside her. “Then fill up the container with compost—your ‘muck’—and a little top soil.”

 Abby scooted to one side. Still he was good at his job. “How much of each?”

“I’m sorry, I forgot this is still new to you.” Jim moved in closer. “Half-and-half, see? Put tall daisies in the back, red impatiens in the center, and lastly along the outer edges of each container, the trailing begonias, petunias, and nasturtium so they cascade down the sides.” Suiting action to words, Jim completed one arrangement and set it beside her. “Use this as your guide, leaving two to three inches between each plant.” He smiled. “If you have a question, I’ll be nearby.”

As she toiled, Abby sensed Jim’s eyes on her and tried to catch him at it. But whenever she’d glance over, he’d look down at his hands and whistle, making a game out of it and beating her every time. Then Jim set down his trowel and strolled over, giving her one of those captivating smiles. “Off for the summer, are you?”

Abby nodded, focusing on the flowers in her hands. Please don’t come any nearer.

He removed his hat and twirled it in his hands like the first day she saw him. “Is college all you expected it to be?”

Abby’s wall of indifference collapsed, and she gazed up into those intense blue eyes below his dark eyebrows. “I’m looking forward to going back.” Her throat tightened. “Still, sometimes I feel se-se-selfish. There’s so much I could be doing at home for the war effort.”

Jim rocked back. “Selfish?” His brow furrowed. “When you complete your training, you’ll be teaching kids who’ll be future citizens.”

Abby—without breaking the lock of his eyes—flinched, taken aback by his response.

“My squirt sister with the big mouth says she wants to quit high school.” Jim hunched beside her, lowering his voice. “And the older one who had great dreams didn’t finish school.” He looked into the distance. “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t go on like that.”

Surprised by his revelation, her cheeks grew warm.

“I’ll probably be one of the first call-ups if we enter this war.” He stood and swatted his hat against his thigh. “But until and if that happens my duty lies at home.”

In a flash of self-reproach, she understood. She’d misjudged him. His mother and sisters needed him, and he doesn’t want to leave them. And what had he said about his job, and how grateful he was to have it?

Jim slapped his palms together to dislodge the dirt. “It’s none of my business, but you might think about teaching on the estate during summer.” He plunged his hands into a watering can. “I know some of your uncle’s staff have youngsters who could use help with their schooling.”

How clever he is. “That would never have occurred to me.”

Jim bent to pick up a toppled container. “I must go. It’s trout season,” he said, as if to explain the urgency of his mission.

Abby’s stomach dropped as he strode off between the long rows of tables. She wished he’d stay longer. When he headed back in her direction, her pulse quickened.

“You’re doing fine here.” He grinned. “If you like, when I get back I’ll take you to see the new bonsai collection.”

She let out a breath. “Let me know when you return.” What was it about the young gardener that stirred her senses?

Abby craned her neck to keep him in view as he strode off. He opened the door to his truck and glanced back. Their eyes met.

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PAT JEANNE DAVIS  has a keen interest in 20th Century United States and British history, particularly the period of World War II. Her longtime interest in that era goes back to the real-life stories she heard about family members who served during the war. When Valleys Bloom Again is a debut inspirational romance set in WWII. She enjoys flower gardening, genealogy research and traveling with her British-born husband.  She writes from her home n Philadelphia, Pa. Pat has published essays, short stories and articles online and in print. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Faith, Hope, Love Christian Writers. Please visit her at https://www.patjeannedavis.com

Links:

When Valleys Bloom Again can be purchased here: Amazon.com

Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/when-valleys-bloom-again-pat-jeanne-davis/1130351044?ean=9781948888912

 ChristianBooks.com:  https://familyfiction.christianbook.com/when-valleys-bloom-again/9781948888929/pd/888932?event=ESRCG

Please connect with me on my social media sites and consider signing up for my latest newsletter on my website.

Social Media:  

Website:  https://www.patjeannedavis.com

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/pat.j.davis.7

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Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18797403.Pat_Jeanne_Davis

Amazon Author Page: https://amazon.com/author/patjeannedavis

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/pat-jeanne-davis-34290422/                    

Pinterest:  https://www.pinterest.com/patjeannedavis/    

BookBub:  https://www.bookbub.com/authors/pat-jeanne-davis

The Stars in April by Peggy Wirgau

My debut novel, The Stars in April, is based on the true story of a twelve-year-old Titanic survivor, Ruth Becker. Released on March 30, 2021 by IlluminateYA, the book has been honored with a Starred Review from School Library Journal.

In 2012, during the hundredth anniversary of the ship’s sinking, I discovered among the survivors the name of a girl whose parents were missionaries in India. Twelve-year-old Ruth Becker was separated from her family as the Titanic lifeboats were loaded, yet she managed to share her blankets with others and offer a handkerchief to a stoker who had injured his finger.

What would make this young girl act so bravely when she must have been terrified? How did she feel about leaving her home in India, and what led to her decisions in a lifeboat full of strangers that cold, dark night? As I asked myself those questions, I began researching and realized I needed to tell Ruth’s story.

An excerpt from the back cover:

The year is 1912. When doctors in India are unable to treat her baby brother’s illness, Ruth’s missionary parents decide there is one solution: move her mother and the children across the world—to Michigan. 

But India is the only home Ruth knows. In a matter of days, she must leave Papa and all she loves behind, abandon her dream of one day playing violin in the Calcutta Orchestra, and embark on a four-week journey to England, followed by the voyage to New York aboard the luxurious, ill-fated RMS Titanic. 

Ruth’s story is one of courage and self-sacrifice as she earns her sea legs and faces the unknown, culminating in a desperate, tragic night she will never forget.

One of the best parts of writing the book was getting acquainted with Mr. Floyd Andrick of the Titanic Historical Society, who knew Ruth in her later years. He graciously provided several tales she had shared with him about her life in India and aboard the Titanic, and I was able to weave them into the novel. One that took place in India involved a tea party that her mother hosted for other missionary wives, only to have it interrupted by wild monkeys who had decided to invade their veranda and eat the sandwiches!

The most amazing story, however, is Floyd’s detailed account of how Ruth befriended two little boys on the ship, who were later known as the Titanic Orphans, because their father perished in the sinking. She had always thought they drowned as well, until she was reunited with the older of the boys at a Titanic convention 75 years after the voyage. A photo from that event, as well as others of Ruth and her family, are included in the book’s backmatter.

Ruth’s experiences come to life in The Stars in April, through a cast of characters from all walks of life and through her Sky Reports—journal entries she writes as she observes the stars and constellations and speculates on her future as she travels across the world. Ruth Becker’s story is for all ages, from kids who are interested in a true adventure, to adult history buffs and those looking for a heartfelt, first-person account from a survivor of the “unsinkable” Titanic.

“A captivating, honest, lovingly told story of a young girl’s courageous journey. If you only read one book about the Titanic, read this one!”

~ Francisco X. Stork, award-winning author of Marcelo in the Real    World, The Memory of Light, and Illegal

Amazon.com: The Stars in April (9781645263067): Wirgau, Peggy: Books (paperback)

Peggy Wirgau is a Michigan native and now lives in Delray Beach, Florida. She loves true stories from the past and writes through the eyes of ordinary people in history who faced extraordinary challenges and became heroes. Peggy has written for several magazines and contributed to Why? Titanic Moments. Her debut novel, The Stars in April, is based on the story of twelve-year-old Titanic survivor Ruth Becker. She is a member of ACFW, SCBWI, and Florida Writers Association.

Barb Roose: Breakthrough, Part 2

Part 2 of an Interview with Barb Roose,
Author of Breakthrough

For some, Christianity is a long list of rules to be followed, and it’s hard to be a “good Christian” because it always seems you’re breaking one of those rules. In Breakthrough: Finding Freedom in Christ (Abingdon Women), popular women’s conference speaker and author Barb Roose wants to help readers let go of the feeling they are not a “good enough” Christian and find freedom in Christ by studying Paul’s letter to the Galatians.Why do you think you have to be perfect for God?
 
Does God only show up or love you when you “get it right”?
 
Who has led you to believe you have to follow rules and “measure up”?
 
For anyone who has ever struggled with these questions or felt trapped by rules or religion, Breakthrough: Finding Freedom in Christ (Abingdon Women), by popular women’s conference speaker and author Barb Roose will provide a path to discovering freedom in Christ. Roose helps readers learn to:
  -Stop trying to measure up and embrace God’s grace
-Distinguish between lies and truth
-Embrace God’s promise of freedom




Part 2 of an Interview with Barb Roose,
Author of Breakthrough


For some, Christianity is a long list of rules to be followed, and it’s hard to be a “good Christian” because it always seems you’re breaking one of those rules. In Breakthrough: Finding Freedom in Christ (Abingdon Women), popular women’s conference speaker and author Barb Roose wants to help readers let go of the feeling they are not a “good enough” Christian and find freedom in Christ by studying Paul’s letter to the Galatians.Why do you think you have to be perfect for God?
 
Does God only show up or love you when you “get it right”?
 
Who has led you to believe you have to follow rules and “measure up”?
 
For anyone who has ever struggled with these questions or felt trapped by rules or religion, Breakthrough: Finding Freedom in Christ (Abingdon Women), by popular women’s conference speaker and author Barb Roose will provide a path to discovering freedom in Christ. Roose helps readers learn to:
 
Stop trying to measure up and embrace God’s grace
Distinguish between lies and truth
Embrace God’s promise of freedom

 
Q: What is the spiritual breakthrough you hope readers will experience by diving into your new Bible study?
 
In a word: FREEDOM! I’m so excited about the opportunity for readers to experience the freedom that comes from knowing that our God is at work in us and that we don’t have to jump through hoops to earn His approval, love or favor. He’s already given it to us in every promise that He’s made to us!
 
While spiritual breakthrough isn’t a term in the Bible, it is reflected in God’s promise to change and transform us by renewing eternally us in Christ (Galatians 2:20). I’ve seen a lot of descriptions of spiritual breakthrough that put the responsibility for spiritual growth or freedom on human effort, but only God can rescue us from the prisons of our pain, our past and our problems. We might be able to push against the prison bars on our own, but only God can break us free!
 
In fact, one of the key features of the Breakthrough study is the weekly Spiritual Breakthrough Exercise with unique tools to identify where God is at work. It’s been so much fun listening to women celebrate seeing where God is at work and their confidence in knowing that God is transforming them, and they don’t have to try to make it happen on their own.
 
Q: What are your six freedom principles?
 
As I studied Paul’s letter to the Galatian church, I created six Freedom Principles to capture the main themes of his letter. I pray that readers will use these principles as tools to apply to their lives when they feel like they need to do more to earn God’s love or blessing.
The gospel is based on God’s perfect promises, not our performance.
A relationship with God means that we receive from Him rather than follow rules for Him.
Your freedom in Christ cannot be shaken or taken away by anyone who chooses not to live like Christ.
Freedom in Christ is living free from fear and fully alive with joy and purpose.
Spiritual breakthrough is an ah-ha moment when we recognize that God is at work within us, receive what He’s doing, and respond to it.
You are God’s beautiful, loveable, capable daughter. You are confident in Christ and worthy of God’s best.
Q: There was a season of your life when, even though you were saved, you decided to disconnect from God because of religious rules. What made you decide to reconnect with God?
 
My mom explained the gospel to me when I was eight years old. I accepted Jesus as my Savior and was baptized when I was nine years old. I was so happy that Jesus saved me that I wanted to be a good Christian and make God happy. I had my list of religious “to-do” rules and worked hard to make God happy. I thought that following all the rules would make me more faithful to God, but I spent so much time in fear. I always wondered if I was doing enough for God and kept pushing myself to jump through those hoops, always trying to do more and do better.
 
When I got to college, I saw all the other students having fun. I wasn’t having fun while following all of the rules, so I decided to stop. The only problem was that when I abandoned my “good” Christian rules, I felt like I was abandoning what I called my faith.
 
When I eventually messed up my life so badly that there was nothing I could do to fix it, I experienced an ah-ha moment that changed my life. That moment was realizing that God’s love for me is based on His perfect promises, not my performance. This was when I finally understood the freedom that comes from God’s grace, not following religious rules.
 
Q: Can you give us some examples of legalism that hold us back from freedom?
 
In Breakthrough, I tell the story of my conversation with a lovely young believer who felt like she was a bad Christian because she saw other Christians who seemed to read their Bibles more and never miss church. She told me, “Well, I forget to read my Bible sometimes, and I still smoke. I feel like I’m disappointing God.”
 
My heart hurt for that young believer and so many other Christians who feel exactly like she does. Legalism wants us to believe that we have to earn God’s love and favor by reading our Bibles a certain number of times a week or never missing church. Legalism’s focus is on “what are we doing for God” and the problem is that when the focus is on us, we miss out on receiving what God wants to give us.
 
When we read our Bibles because we know that God’s truth gives us life, that’s freedom. But when we read our Bibles because we think that will make God happy, that’s legalism. When we go to church because the sermon and music focus us on Jesus’ love, that leads us to freedom. But, when we go to church because we think that God will punish us if we don’t, that’s legalism.
 
Q: What are the three hoops of legalism Christians get trapped into believing they have to jump through?
 
I call these the “To-Do,” “Do-More,” and “Do-Better” hoops of religion:
 
To-Do Hoop – Our attempt to gain God’s forgiveness or save ourselves from sin or struggle
Do-More Hoop – Our effort to compel God to act or gain favor (like a quid pro quo)
Do-Better Hoop – Our determination to fix ourselves or reduce our shame or guilt after we mess up.
 
Some of us grew up in religious traditions that promoted certain religious rules or perhaps you’re like me and made up your own legalistic rules to try to earn God’s love or favor. The end result of legalism is never freedom, but rather more fear and frustration.
 
Q: What is the format of Breakthrough ? How many weeks are there and what will participants do on their own vs. within a group?
 
The Breakthrough Bible study is six weeks long and it’s written for a solo use, but preferably in a group setting. I believe that life transformation happens when we gather together with each other to talk about God, our faith, and our life experience. God uses our individual stories to encourage and inspire each other. So, grab some friends and make a group! Best of all, geography isn’t a limitation. I love hearing from groups across the country who are using online technology to bring together friends for Bible study who live in different states as well as groups that meet in person.
 
Q: Where can participants access the videos that correspond with each week?
 
In response to the different ways that groups are meeting, I love that my publisher, Abingdon Women, has made a three video formats available: DVDs, digital download, and streaming media. There’s a solution for everyone!
 
Readers can order DVDs and access to digital downloads from cokesbury.com/barbroose or use the Amplify Media platform for streaming video access at amplifymedia.com.
 
If you’d like more information on those options, I recorded a video with my friend and fellow Abingdon Women author, Melissa Spoelstra that gives a demonstration of them all at barbroose.com/groupleaders.
 


 

About the author
 

Barb Roose is a popular speaker and author who is passionate about teaching women to live beautifully strong and courageous in spite of their fears so that they can experience God’s great adventure of faith and purpose for their lives.
 
Roose enjoys teaching and encouraging women at conferences and events across the country, as well as internationally, including national platforms such as the Aspire Women’s Events, She Speaks Conference, and many more.
 
She is the author of three books, Surrendered Devotional, Winning the Worry Battle, and Enough Already, and five Bible studies, Breakthrough, Surrendered, I’m Waiting, God, Joshua, and Beautiful Already. Her writing has been featured in many magazines, and she also writes a regular blog at BarbRoose.com. She hosts the “Better Together” Facebook Live events and podcast.
 
Roose lives in Toledo, Ohio, and is the proud mom of three adult daughters. Her perfect day includes sleeping in, taking a long walk outside, shopping for shoes and eating two big bowls of chocolate peanut ice cream.
 
Visit Barb Roose’s online home at barbroose.com . Readers can also keep up with her on Facebook ( BarbaraRoose ), Twitter ( barbroose ), and Instagram ( barbroose ).

Q: What is the spiritual breakthrough you hope readers will experience by diving into your new Bible study?
 
In a word: FREEDOM! I’m so excited about the opportunity for readers to experience the freedom that comes from knowing that our God is at work in us and that we don’t have to jump through hoops to earn His approval, love or favor. He’s already given it to us in every promise that He’s made to us!
 
While spiritual breakthrough isn’t a term in the Bible, it is reflected in God’s promise to change and transform us by renewing eternally us in Christ (Galatians 2:20). I’ve seen a lot of descriptions of spiritual breakthrough that put the responsibility for spiritual growth or freedom on human effort, but only God can rescue us from the prisons of our pain, our past and our problems. We might be able to push against the prison bars on our own, but only God can break us free!
 
In fact, one of the key features of the Breakthrough study is the weekly Spiritual Breakthrough Exercise with unique tools to identify where God is at work. It’s been so much fun listening to women celebrate seeing where God is at work and their confidence in knowing that God is transforming them, and they don’t have to try to make it happen on their own.
 
Q: What are your six freedom principles?
 
As I studied Paul’s letter to the Galatian church, I created six Freedom Principles to capture the main themes of his letter. I pray that readers will use these principles as tools to apply to their lives when they feel like they need to do more to earn God’s love or blessing. The gospel is based on God’s perfect promises, not our performance. A relationship with God means that we receive from Him rather than follow rules for Him. Your freedom in Christ cannot be shaken or taken away by anyone who chooses not to live like Christ. Freedom in Christ is living free from fear and fully alive with joy and purpose. Spiritual breakthrough is an ah-ha moment when we recognize that God is at work within us, receive what He’s doing, and respond to it. You are God’s beautiful, loveable, capable daughter. You are confident in Christ and worthy of God’s best. Q: There was a season of your life when, even though you were saved, you decided to disconnect from God because of religious rules. What made you decide to reconnect with God?
 
My mom explained the gospel to me when I was eight years old. I accepted Jesus as my Savior and was baptized when I was nine years old. I was so happy that Jesus saved me that I wanted to be a good Christian and make God happy. I had my list of religious “to-do” rules and worked hard to make God happy. I thought that following all the rules would make me more faithful to God, but I spent so much time in fear. I always wondered if I was doing enough for God and kept pushing myself to jump through those hoops, always trying to do more and do better.
 
When I got to college, I saw all the other students having fun. I wasn’t having fun while following all of the rules, so I decided to stop. The only problem was that when I abandoned my “good” Christian rules, I felt like I was abandoning what I called my faith.
 
When I eventually messed up my life so badly that there was nothing I could do to fix it, I experienced an ah-ha moment that changed my life. That moment was realizing that God’s love for me is based on His perfect promises, not my performance. This was when I finally understood the freedom that comes from God’s grace, not following religious rules.
 
Q: Can you give us some examples of legalism that hold us back from freedom?
 
In Breakthrough, I tell the story of my conversation with a lovely young believer who felt like she was a bad Christian because she saw other Christians who seemed to read their Bibles more and never miss church. She told me, “Well, I forget to read my Bible sometimes, and I still smoke. I feel like I’m disappointing God.”
 
My heart hurt for that young believer and so many other Christians who feel exactly like she does. Legalism wants us to believe that we have to earn God’s love and favor by reading our Bibles a certain number of times a week or never missing church. Legalism’s focus is on “what are we doing for God” and the problem is that when the focus is on us, we miss out on receiving what God wants to give us.
 
When we read our Bibles because we know that God’s truth gives us life, that’s freedom. But when we read our Bibles because we think that will make God happy, that’s legalism. When we go to church because the sermon and music focus us on Jesus’ love, that leads us to freedom. But, when we go to church because we think that God will punish us if we don’t, that’s legalism.
 
Q: What are the three hoops of legalism Christians get trapped into believing they have to jump through?
 
I call these the “To-Do,” “Do-More,” and “Do-Better” hoops of religion:
 
To-Do Hoop – Our attempt to gain God’s forgiveness or save ourselves from sin or struggle
Do-More Hoop – Our effort to compel God to act or gain favor (like a quid pro quo)
Do-Better Hoop – Our determination to fix ourselves or reduce our shame or guilt after we mess up.
 
Some of us grew up in religious traditions that promoted certain religious rules or perhaps you’re like me and made up your own legalistic rules to try to earn God’s love or favor. The end result of legalism is never freedom, but rather more fear and frustration.
 
Q: What is the format of Breakthrough ? How many weeks are there and what will participants do on their own vs. within a group?
 
The Breakthrough Bible study is six weeks long and it’s written for a solo use, but preferably in a group setting. I believe that life transformation happens when we gather together with each other to talk about God, our faith, and our life experience. God uses our individual stories to encourage and inspire each other. So, grab some friends and make a group! Best of all, geography isn’t a limitation. I love hearing from groups across the country who are using online technology to bring together friends for Bible study who live in different states as well as groups that meet in person.
 
Q: Where can participants access the videos that correspond with each week?
 
In response to the different ways that groups are meeting, I love that my publisher, Abingdon Women, has made a three video formats available: DVDs, digital download, and streaming media. There’s a solution for everyone!
 
Readers can order DVDs and access to digital downloads from cokesbury.com/barbroose or use the Amplify Media platform for streaming video access at amplifymedia.com.
 
If you’d like more information on those options, I recorded a video with my friend and fellow Abingdon Women author, Melissa Spoelstra that gives a demonstration of them all at barbroose.com/groupleaders.About the author Barb Roose is a popular speaker and author who is passionate about teaching women to live beautifully strong and courageous in spite of their fears so that they can experience God’s great adventure of faith and purpose for their lives.
 
Roose enjoys teaching and encouraging women at conferences and events across the country, as well as internationally, including national platforms such as the Aspire Women’s Events, She Speaks Conference, and many more.
 
She is the author of three books, Surrendered Devotional, Winning the Worry Battle, and Enough Already, and five Bible studies, Breakthrough, Surrendered, I’m Waiting, God, Joshua, and Beautiful Already. Her writing has been featured in many magazines, and she also writes a regular blog at BarbRoose.com. She hosts the “Better Together” Facebook Live events and podcast.
 
Roose lives in Toledo, Ohio, and is the proud mom of three adult daughters. Her perfect day includes sleeping in, taking a long walk outside, shopping for shoes and eating two big bowls of chocolate peanut ice cream.
 
Visit Barb Roose’s online home at barbroose.com . Readers can also keep up with her on Facebook ( BarbaraRoose ), Twitter ( barbroose ), and Instagram ( barbroose ).