Julie Arduini's Blog, page 35
January 18, 2021
Author Interview with Sherrinda Ketchersid
What is the most challenging and rewarding thing you’ve experienced as an author?I think the most challenging thing for me is how hard it is to sit down and write. I did not expect that. I thought I’d sit and let the words flow until my book’s completed. Nope. I procrastinate by cleaning toilets or some other awful chore. I think it is fear—fear that I won’t be able to write another book; fear that I won’t connect with readers; fear that I am just a poser, pretending to be a writer. I know, I know, it is silly, but from what I’ve heard, a lot of writers think those thoughts. As for the most rewarding, having readers tell me they stayed up past their bedtime trying to finish my book just totally makes my day. To know that my book brought someone joy makes me giddy.
What is something your readers would be surprised to learn about you?I used to perform in plays with my church youth group. I was so shy as a girl, but there was something about being on stage that allowed me to let loose. I also wore a metal back brace the first two years of high school (think Joan Cusack in Pretty in Pink).
What’s your dream destination vacation?Hands down, it would be Scotland. I love reading historical fiction set in the Highlands, and my next book is set there. I just think it is a mystical sort of place, full of rugged beauty.
What’s your daily must have/must do?Must. Have. Coffee. 
But seriously, I start my day with a cup of Bulletproof Coffee (Keto coffee with cream, butter, and coconut oil) and my Bible. It’s the best way for me to start the day. I have found that my best days always include a chore of some kind, writing a scene, and then doing the business side of writing (blog/social media/etc) If I can have balance in my day, I feel like I have been a success.
I got the idea of the opening chapter from reading about a woman who commanded her guards and protected the castle from invasion while her husband was away on business. So often we think of women back then being subservient, but there were women who really stood out in strength and character, even in the middle ages. That is how I wanted my heroine, Claire, to be—strong and able.
If you could go back in time and talk to your younger self, what’s the one thing you’d want her to know?Just enjoy the journey. The publication journey is not a race. God has a place for your stories, whether they are picked up traditionally or self-published. Enjoy the process and keep on writing!
Title: His to Keep
Tagline: He’s fighting for his inheritance—she’s marrying her sworn enemy.
Back Cover Copy:
When Ian McGowan attempts to claim Whitfield Castle as his rightful inheritance, he finds himself barred by a tempestuous lass who is entailed to be the bride of the castle’s new owner.
Claire Beaumont, the orphaned ward of Whitfield, has good reason to hate Scots, and she is not about to let a Scot enter her beloved home. But when the handsome knight steals into the castle and proves his claim on the land, she must face her ultimate nightmare—marriage to her sworn enemy—in order to save those she cares about most.
Restoring the failing Whitfield Castle while wooing his defiant intended proves more challenging than Ian anticipated. His struggles reach a crisis when his nemesis arrives at the castle, and he must overcome his past demons to prove his worth. He must fight for what is his to keep—and it could well cost him his heart.
Bio:
Sherrinda Ketchersid is a lover of stories with happily-ever-after endings. Whether set in the past or present, romance is what she writes and where her dreams reside. She resides in Dallas, Texas with her preacher husband and scruffy dog, Phineas.
Connect with Sherrinda:
Website: www.sherrinda.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SherrindaKetchersidAuthor/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/sherrinda
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sherrinda
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/sherrinda/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/19022507.Sherrinda_Ketchersid
Book Bub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/sherrinda-ketchersid
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Sherrinda-Ketchersid/e/B07Q5Y8QHF/
Newsletter Signup: https://www.subscribepage.com/z2m6x3
January 4, 2021
Alexis A. Goring: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the makings of my devotional book
A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the makings of my devotional book
Stories and Songs of Faith: My Journey with God was published in April 2020. However, the idea for this devotional wasn’t a thought until around the beginning of last year. I have been writing devotionals since age 16 and have had my devotionals published in books, on blogs and on websites, but I never thought of putting together a book filled with my original devotions until January 2019.
It’s amazing how God works! I was trying to work on another fiction book which I planned to publish before the end of that year. But God had other plans, which were (and always are) perfect!
First, I gathered all of the devotions I’d written over the years for other blogs, as I still had the rights to each one. This meant I had about 25 percent of the content for my book! Now it was time to write new material, but it wasn’t easy. It took giving myself strict deadlines to maintain steady progress.
By summer, I had a total of 44 devotions and thought I was done. However, God knew I was not and He let me know that through two professionals in the publishing industry. The first was a popular book editor who told me, “You know, Alexis, if you wrote 52 devotions then it could be a weekly devotional for a year.” I gave her a nod but wasn’t convinced that was the best idea. Not soon after, a literary agent gave me the final push by simply saying, “You need to keep going.” And so I, reluctantly then but gratefully now, did keep writing. I continued writing for Whispers in Purple (blog) each week. Finally, by the end of February 2020, I wrote devotional number 52. I was so relieved to be done writing my book!
Not only does God have perfect timing; He positions you perfectly for success! My publisher had assigned me a new editor with decades of professional experience in editing devotionals. She had a wonderful idea that really shaped my book by giving it the perfect title and bonus idea. The devotional is about my real-life stories and faith-based songs that guided me on my journey with God. She suggested adding links to the songs mentioned in each devotion. These links were made available in a song directory at the end of both the print and e-book versions of the book. Even better, the link is live if you are using a Kindle, meaning that the reader can just click and hear the song via YouTube without having to look it up first online. My editor said that there’s really not another book on the market yet with this kind of idea and format, and that it may help a lot of people, especially music lovers. As a music lover myself, I loved this idea!
But God wasn’t done directing my steps: He allowed 20 professionals from a variety of backgrounds and life experiences to agree to read an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of my book and write an endorsement. These included actresses, journalists, pastors, doctors, teachers, authors, bloggers, singers and a Christian radio show host … a wonderful variety of people who were all behind my book!
The final part of this amazing experience that brings joy to my heart is the fact that this is the first book I wrote where all of the first few reviews were each 5-stars on Amazon! Several of the people who have endorsed and/or reviewed my book have said that it was timely and needed for such a time as this (the Coronavirus pandemic, intense politics, increased racial tensions, and everything else that’s been hitting us hard this year on and off the news). Only God can do that so I give all the glory to Him!
In closing, I’d like to share words from my friend Morgan’s endorsement.
She said: “God has profoundly touched my life through Alexis A. Goring’s uplifting and personable weekly devotional book sharing God’s love through her own experiences and insights. It is so well-written and in a voice that feels as if a close friend is having coffee with you and talking of God.”
At the end of the day, I hope and pray that God uses my devotional to touch your heart and bring you closer to Him.
Alexis A. Goring is a passionate writer with a degree in Print Journalism and an MFA in Creative Writing. She loves the art of storytelling and hopes that her stories will connect readers with the enduring, forever love of Jesus Christ.
~*~
Socia l Media Links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorAlexisAGoring/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/PennedbyAlex
Website: https://alexisagoring.jimdo.com
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/capturingidea/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7260528.Alexis_A_Goring
December 25, 2020
Free Kindle Books
Merry Christmas! I’ll keep it short as I’m sure you’re busy and ready to go offline just like I am. I know many of you receive Kindles for Christmas, or Kindle Unlimited memberships. I’d like to help you fill those readers, so I have some free Kindle books for you!
December 25-27 you can find the following free, and of course, always free Kindle Unlimited:
Restoring Christmas: Inspy Romance.
Surrendering Stinkin’ Thinkin’ Series for early teens/teens/women of all ages. Whole series is free for Kindle! They can be read as stand-alones, but we think the series works best.
You’re Beautiful:
You’re Amazing:
You’re Brilliant:
December 24, 2020
Merry Christmas
And He shall reign forever and ever…
December 16, 2020
When Valleys Bloom Again by Pat Jeanne Davis
Excerpt from When Valleys Bloom Again
Christmas 1941
“I have in past years spoken about the blessings of this season and how we may count on God’s grace for the coming year,” William said, addressing the staff assembled in the great hall five days before Christmas. “That’s still true, but it’s evident that this Christmas is different.”
A log fire roared up into the wide stone chimney. Abby turned to Jim and whispered,“I’m worried for uncle. He looks so tired.”
Jim leaned into her shoulder and squeezed her hand.
William knocked out his pipe against the mantelpiece. “Things will go on being different for some time to come.” He reached out to Valerie, drawing her to him. “We’ve entered an historic phase in the course of our beloved country with far-reaching effects. I expect some form of rationing will be brought in.” Will cleared his throat before continuing. “So things may get tight around here. Jolie Fontaine has the resources to keep going, but we may have to trim our cloth.” He raised his hand, as if to forestall comments. “But I don’t intend to let anyone go. Some of you may be called up or choose to enlist. However things turn out, I want you to know my wife and I appreciate your loyal service.” He paused then chuckled. ”Speech over. Let’s eat and get on with the celebration.”
***
After the festivities in the house were over, Jim and Abby drove to a nearby lake. He arranged wood over a bed of stones and started a fire.
“Thankfully the surface is solid for skating,” Abby said, inhaling the scent of smoke that hung on the breeze.
Dressed in a red skating outfit and white fur hat, she propped herself against an oak tree, while he helped her on with a pair of white skates. They glided across the ice, taking the occasional tumble.
Returning to the fire to warm up, Abby studied Jim’s profile in the flickering light as he stared into the distance. Something’s on his mind.
He turned toward her, then looked away. “I’ve been called up,” he said before clearing his throat. “If I pass the examination, I’ll leave soon after.”
She struggled for some intelligent response. “I … I guess we knew it was bound to happen,” she said, preparing herself for an adjustment in the mood of the evening.
The fire flared up and sparks shot into the night air. “Need to be at the induction center early in January.”
“Early January, but that’s only a few weeks away.” she said, tears stinging her eyelids.
Jim jumped to his feet, snapped a branch in two and crouched by the fire.“You will wait for me?” he said, poised for her response.
Large fluffy snowflakes drifted down as Christmas lights from nearby houses flickered through swaying branches. She had tried to picture what form his proposal might take—though she’d expected something less oblique. But this was so natural, so like Jim.
“Maybe I shouldn’t ask.” He came and sat beside her, eyes lowered. “What right have I to suppose you would want to marry me,” he said, his voice soft and pleading.
It was all she could do to maintain her composure as her heart thudded away and her mind whirled around. She didn’t doubt that she loved him … but. Again, she tried to say something, but her throat swelled with questions. The snow fell faster. Putting her arm around his shoulder, she traced a gloved finger down the side of his face. “I can’t give you my answer now. Give me a little time?”
He looked up and gazed into her eyes. “As much as you need,” he said, taking her hand.
When Valleys Bloom Again
A Wartime Romance Set On Two Continents
by Pat Jeanne Davis
Tagline:
After fleeing impending war in England, nineteen-year-old Abby Stapleton works to correct her stammer and to become a teacher in America, only to discover this conflict has no boundaries and that a rejected suitor is intent on destroying her name, fiancé, and fragile faith.
Back Book Cover Description on 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?
BIO:
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.
Links:
When Valleys Bloom Again can be purchased here: Amazon.com
Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/when...
ChristianBooks.com: https://familyfiction.christianbook.com/when-valleys-bloom-again/9781948888929/pd/888932?event=ESRCG
Social Media:
Website: https://www.patjeannedavis.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pat.j.davis.7
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patjeannedavis/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
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/books/when-valleys-bloom-again-by-pat-jeanne-davis
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December 12, 2020
Free Trial to Adventures in Odyssey Club
Give your family a gift that will be enjoyed all year long!
The Adventures in Odyssey Club is the perfect gift to entertain and inspire each family members. With up to five logins per family, each can have their own experience in the Club. You may love the monthly videos, daily devotions, or other Club-exclusive features, or you may just like that you can stream more than 900 episodes on-demand! Join the Club for your family or give it as a gift to someone else!
December 10, 2020
Don’t Forget the 12 Days of Christmas
I’m taking over Saturday, December 12 from 11am-3pm with that, games, and giveaways. It’s going to be a lot of fun, PLUS, this entire event boasts over $500 in prizes! I’d love to see you win one of the grand prizes.
Make sure you’re part of Free Books & More, and join me!
December 9, 2020
Book Review: The Loneliness Solution by Jack Eason
Statistics show that, despite our connected world–and partly because of it–we are lonelier than ever. Social media tricks us into thinking that we are engaged in genuine friendships, except we never quite get beyond that feeling of being outside someone else’s life and looking in every so often at what they choose to show the world. Instead of intimacy we get little more than what amounts to digital small talk. But there is a solution.
With plenty of good humor and practical advice, Jack Eason invites you to discover the benefits of doing life together with other brothers and sisters in Christ. Grounding his message in Scripture, Eason helps you
– learn the obstacles to real community
– reimagine what real friendship looks like
– discover a place of true belonging
– and more
If you’re tired of feeling lonely, this encouraging and community-building book is just what you need.
We didn’t need a quarantine to tell us we’re losing connection with each other. The Loneliness Solution offers solid proof that it is a problem, but there is hope. With great statistics, research, inspiring stories practical principles that include encouragement from the Bible, Jack Eason lays out ways to combat the isolation and find community. There’s also advice on building friendship.
This is so timely, but even without the pandemic, this is needed information and encouragement. You definitely should read.
I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated and all opinions are my own.
To learn more and purchase, click below:
December 8, 2020
Adventures in Odyssey: Free Christmas Fun Pack
Download the free Adventures in Odyssey
Christmas Fun Pack featuring activities, crafts, and family devotions. You get to help your favorite Adventures in Odyssey characters as they work to prepare the holiday festivities throughout Whit’s End.
Print and cut out Christmas trading cards you can use as stocking stuffers- and figure out puzzles. Create your own one-of-a-kind snowman and try out the recipe for a Christmassy Wod Fam Choc Sod!
This sounds like so much fun. I hope you’ll download the Christmas Fun Pack now. Let me know how it goes!
December 4, 2020
Christmas Scavenger Hunt Round-Robin: Restoring Christmas
Merry Christmas! Welcome to the Christmas Round-Robin! At each author’s blog post, you will find a question that can be answered by checking out the free Amazon preview of their book. Provide the answer at this Google Form. Note: You must correctly answer the questions for every author in the round -robin to be considered for the win. At the end of my post is a link to the next blog, who will provide a link to the next blog, etc., to the very end.
I’m excited to share Restoring Christmas with you. This is a stand-alone romance about two grieving hearts and one amazing God. It’s of course so much more.
For one, as I do with all my romances, I use Upstate NY settings. Restoring Christmas takes place in fictional Geneseo Valley, modeled after the college town, Geneseo (Jen-uh-see-oh). It’s where I received my degree, and parts of my college experience made its way into the book.
Restoring Christmas also showcases my Ohio life. I’ve lived in NE Ohio for 16 years, and one of my favorite finds has been Castle Noel in Medina. This gem features Christmas props through the decades from costumes to sets to even Cousin Eddie’s motor home from Christmas Vacation. By the time I finished the hour tour I was already plotting.
By the time I was on the highway, I had the question.
What if a young woman had to return to her hometown to save the holiday-themed family business and she hated the holiday?
I hope you enjoy the preview of Restoring Christmas, where you will meet Holly Christmas. Will Kevin Holt and his students convince her to stay in Geneseo Valley? Read to find out. 
