Author Clarissa Kae has written a split time historical/contemporary romance. This riveting novel is steeped in legend and has some paranormal episodes. As a reviewer of Christian books, this one left me a wee bit confused.
This is the complex contemporary story of Sienna. Her family is a bit odd, and she has the closest relationship with her grandfather. It is also the story of Ioan, her grandfather’s neighbor. Sienna and Ioan met when she was very young. They forged a strong bond that she cannot remember.
Set in Wales and England, the descriptions are vivid and take readers right to the story. I could visualize things happening. The conversations sounded smooth and authentic. Characters were well rounded and realistic. The writer has a smooth style of writing. Her story was well thought and well written. There are some great twists and turns to keep readers guessing.
There are some timeless life lessons tucked inside this book. However, I searched without success for the spiritual or faith ones. That was the major disappointment I had with this book. It gets a 4 star rating from me.
About the Book
Book: Of Ink and Sea
Author: Clarissa Kae
Genre: Romance with historical and paranormal elements
The Bristol Sea divides Cornwall and Wales—and sings an enticing tale to Sienna Rothesay, an English born, American raised photographer. Since childhood, she’s fought the temptation to listen to its siren song.When Ioan Waif, an enigmatic neighbor from her Welsh days calls her home to care for her ailing grandfather, Sienna is faced with an old myth that hints at a nefarious secret, linking her ancestors with Ioan’s.To uncover the truth, she must walk the blurry path between legend and reality but with more questions than answers, she fears giving into her heart will cost Sienna her head.
Clarissa Kae is a preeminent voice whose professional career began as a freelance editor in 2007. She’s the former president of her local California Writers Club after spending several years as the Critique Director.Since her first novel, she’s explored different writing genres and created a loyal group of fans who eagerly await her upcoming release. With numerous awards to her name, Clarissa continues to honor the role of storyteller.Aside from the writing community, she and her daughters founded Kind Girls Make Strong Women to help undervalued nonprofit organizations—from reuniting children with families to giving Junior Olympic athletes their shot at success.She lives in the agricultural belly of California with her family and farm of horses, chickens, dogs and kittens aplenty.
More from Clarissa
I was supposed to go to Wales for my 40th birthday which is this month January 2021. But COVID happened. Instead, I delved into Wales for a setting and never looked back.
Journey Back Home by talented storyteller, author Cheri Swalwell is Book Two in her The Redemption of Green Pines series. This is a Christian contemporary family tale that is filled with spiritual and life lessons. The author has sprinkled scripture throughout her book, which is one of the things I love about her writing.
This is the story of Jace. He has been the youth pastor at his church for over a decade years. His wife, Simone, just had their fourth baby. Jace thinks he is more needed at their church than he is at home. Simone is feeling overwhelmed, tired, and invisible at home by her husband.
This is a down to earth story of a family of six. Mom is trying to keep the home and her sanity while Dad is out enjoying life with his buddies at church. Sound familiar? Any woman will be able to relate to Simone’s frustration. I was immediately invested in the story and characters.
Throughout the story I ran a gamut of emotions. I could feel the emotions that the characters were experiencing coming off of the pages and settle into my heart. Only a great author can transfer emotions from a character to a reader, and Swalwell did it multiple times. She packed in a few twists and turns to keep us on our toes, too. There is a mystery in the plot that will keep you reading and turning pages for more information.
The characters are well rounded, relatable, and realistic. I enjoyed seeing Holly pop up in this book since we got to know her in Book One. The dialog sounded smooth and easy, never stiff or forced. The lessons learned from watching this Christian family go through trials and triumphs are invaluable. Readers will see faith and grace as actions and not just spoken words.
Swalwell has done a great job planning, organizing, and writing this fictional story. There are many God-glorifying moments to offer encouragement and inspiration. I highly recommend this beautiful glimpse into the life of a Christian family. It would make a perfect book club selection. There is much to ponder and discuss. The only thing missing is a discussion guide or reflection questions. I gladly rate it 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest thoughts and words.
About the Book
Book: Journey Back Home
Author: Cheri Swalwell
Genre: Christian Romance
As you know, life isn’t always as it seems.
Ten years, four children, two full-time careers, insane schedules—this is not what Jace and Simone signed up for. When the couple married a decade ago, they shared a passion for serving youth together. They believed their deep love for God and shared interests were all they needed to keep their marriage strong.
With Jace busy as a youth minister on the weekends, and Simone taking care of their four children, as well as her second grade classroom, they barely find time to connect with each other. Travel up close and personal into the home of a youth pastor and his family as they deal with issues far-to-common in this fast-paced society.
Tragedy strikes…an investigation begins…and it seems as though life will never return to the “happily-ever-after” of their dreams.
When their world is turned upside down, the question becomes…will God give the family strength to journey back home?
If you like wholesome fiction with a faith-filled message, buckle in to read Journey Back Home, Book 2 of The Redemption of Green Pines series today.
Cheri Swalwell is a Christ follower who thoroughly enjoys her calling to be a wife, mother, and writer, in that order. She enjoys writing regularly for Book Fun Magazine and LIFE TO THE FULLEST. Her Spoken from the Heart Series is available through Deeper Shopping in both eBook and paperback versions. To read one of her many articles on life from a Christian perspective, visit her blog at: http://bit.ly/1gRp9oK. She loves to interact with her readers, so send her an email at clSwalwell99@gmail.com or “like” her on Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1h4eudV.
More from Cheri
Journey Back Home was the first novel I ever wrote. The way God downloaded it into my heart was by sharing Simone’s side of the story first. Her journey is shared in the book through a series of diary entries. So I basically wrote the middle of the book first, then the ending, and then went back and wrote the beginning. It was definitely God who tied it all together so nicely.
When I finished writing Journey Back Home, it sat in my computer folders for six years. During that time God took fiction away from me, and gave me the platform of nonfiction. Two years ago, He lovingly gave me fiction back and I pulled it out, dusted it off, and started getting it ready to publish.
However, I realized it wasn’t a standalone book anymore. It was a community, a tight-knit group of people who had much more they wanted to share with readers. And I knew I needed to start with Holly’s story. Adventure’s Invitation, Book 1 of The Redemption of Green Pines, tells Holly’s background which is an integral part of Journey Back Home.
I hope you fall in love with Jace, Simone, their four children, and of course Holly as much as I have. If so, get ready because there are many more people to grow to love in all six books of The Redemption of Green Pines series.
A Heart’s Gift by talented storyteller Lena Nelson Dooley is a Christian historical romantic fiction novel. It has so many twists and turns in it that you will be kept on your toes throughout the entire book. This is Book 1 in the author’s Love’s Road Home Series.
Set in 1890s gold rush era of Colorado, this is the story of Lorinda and Franklin. Their story is touching. The author keeps God and a spiritual message in the forefront of this novel, which is just one of the reasons that I loved it so much.
I was immediately captivated by the story and characters. With her deft writing ability the author took me to the Rocky Mountains to a cattle ranch. I learned a few things while I fell in love with some of her characters and despised the others.
Author Dooley has a wonderful style of writing. Her romance was sweet and yet I could feel the tension building between Lorinda and Franklin. The dialog was authentic and flowed smoothly. Emotions jumped off of the pages and into my heart.
The secondary characters were amazing. I enjoyed the housekeeper. She was a voice of calm and wisdom at times when needed. The heart to heart discussions between men were right on point. Some of them even made me chuckle.
I highly recommend this wonderful book. It is full of surprises, life lessons, inspiration, mystery, danger, and romance. I found it to be a page turner that I was unable to set down. It receives a 5 out of 5 stars from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest words.
About the Book
Book: A Heart’s Gift
Author: Lena Nelson Dooley
Genre: Christian historical romance
Is a marriage of convenience the answer?
Franklin Vine has worked hard to build the ranch he inherited into one of the most successful in the majestic Colorado mountains. If only he had an heir to one day inherit the legacy he’s building. But he was burned once in the worst way, and he doesn’t plan to open his heart to another woman. Even if that means he’ll eventually have to divide up his spread among the most loyal of his hired hands.
When Lorinda Sullivan is finally out from under the control of men who made all the decisions in her life, she promises herself she’ll never allow a man to make choices for her again. But without a home in the midst of a hard Rocky Mountain winter, she has to do something to provide for her infant son.
A marriage of convenience seems like the perfect arrangement, yet the stakes quickly become much higher than either of them ever planned. When hearts become entangled, the increasing danger may change their lives forever.
Lena Nelson Dooley has been an author for 36 years. Her 51st book released in June 2020. Raised in Arkansas, she married a Texan 56 years ago. They have lived in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex for decades. She is an active member of ACFW and one of the founding members the DFW local chapter. She’s often been a speaker for other writers’ groups and conferences, both as a keynote speaker and a workshop teacher. Her fans love reading her books filled with characters who grip your heart.
MORE FROM LENA
THE STORY BEHIND A HEART’S GIFT
I’ve been a lover of history for decades. In college and graduate school, all my elective courses were history. Of course, I chose the countries and eras I wanted to learn about. When I began writing novels, my first one was a contemporary story. After that at least 75% or more of my novels have been historical, from 1805 through the early 20thcentury.
I’ve always been fascinated by the relationship between Joseph and Mary the mother of Jesus. The Bible doesn’t give us a lot of information about their relationship. But by his actions, we can assume that Joseph believed the angel and Mary about her baby. He didn’t do the usual thing and put her away quietly. Instead, he protected her, and from the day He was born, he became the earthly father of Jesus. I’ve often thought about what that meant for Joseph and for Mary. When I wrote a story of a marriage between a man and a single mother, I used the emotions that I feel God has revealed to me about their relationship.
The first time I read a marriage of convenience novel, I loved it. And I’ve read quite a few. I’ve also written a few. A Heart’s Gift is one of them. This book was an easy and interesting book to write.
I’m what’s called in the industry a seat-of-the-pants author, more or less. I do have the complete outline of the story in my head. When I sit down to write, I know where I’m going, but I don’t have every single scene plotted out as some authors do. And I pray a lot. During the time I’m writing a book, God drops ideas into my mind. Not just while I’m writing, but other times, too. That’s the exciting thing about writing. This keeps it fresh for me.
During the writing of A Heart’s Gift, there’s a place where I just stopped and said, “God, what am I going to do now?” When you get there, you’ll know what scene I mean, but I don’t want to give a spoiler.
I never dreamed that the book would turn into a suspense novel in the last quarter of the book, but God knew. And it made it a better book.
The Magic of Ordinary: A Memoir is a loving tribute from author Melissa (Missi) Johnson Gouty to her amazing father, Melford (Mel) Johnson. This nostalgic look of family and life in a small Midwestern town had me turning page after page. It was a bright, sunshiny smile on the face of a dark dreary day. You must read it and have your spirits lifted, too.
Author Gouty and I went to school together. She was one of my sweetest friends. So many of her memories mirrored my own. Even though our lives were vastly different, they were extremely similar. That’s what happens in small towns. They bring people together and give them common threads. I found myself nodding in agreement as I read this love letter. It is nothing less than beautiful.
I enjoyed the style that talented wordsmith Gouty uses in writing. Her story is transparent and brutally honest. There is a warmth to it. Readers will feel like they are chatting over a cup of coffee or at least, I did. It brought tears to my eyes at times, many of them from laughing.
There is a plethora of life and spiritual lessons woven throughout these exceptional stories. It reveals the working of a Christian family, a man of faith, how to appreciate nature, and how to simply enjoy life. The author proudly announces that she never recalls her father swearing or using rough language in situations when most men would. Can you do the same?
It is difficult to choose a favorite tale. I enjoyed them all for various reasons. There is just one place that I found myself uncomfortable. In one of the stories the author uses the crass term for feces. (Yes, I am a prude.) It is one of the words that my Southern Grandmother instilled in me (obviously) that a lady never says. I realize I am the exception now and not the rule, but it still bothered me.
I highly recommend this charming memoir to everyone. Baby Boomers will certainly relate to the references made. There are discussion questions in the back so it would make a nice book club selection. I give this a 5 out of 5 star rating.
In His Presence, The Secret of Prayer by author Dr. E.W. Kenyon is an inspirational Christian book. The words on prayer are timeless. This is a great addition to any Christian library.
The author has a passion for God that shows through this book. He emphasizes the importance of daily prayer and having a strong prayer life. If readers need help establishing that, the author offers suggestions.
There is a wealth of information packed into the pages of this book. It is so edifying that I had to read it a little at a time and mull over what I had just read. The author offers wise counsel to deepen one’s walk and relationship with God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. Scripture is heavily referenced in various translations throughout this informative and encouraging work.
The style of writing is easy to understand. The book is well planned and designed. I found it easy to follow. There are many good ideas on prayer as well as our authority from being children of God. We miss out on so much because we have not asked.
I highly recommend this book to any Christian wanting to strengthen their prayer life and walk with the Father. It would make a nice small group study. This one will definitely be placed on my shelf to refer back to time and time again. I gave it a 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my own, honest words.
About the Book
Book: In His Presence
Author: Dr. E.W. Kenyon
Genre: RELIGION / Christian Living/Prayer
Release Date: December 11, 2020
Here, at last, is a real solution to the prayer problem!
In His Presence by E. W. Kenyon is not about who others were and what they did in prayer, but about who we are and what we can do in prayer. It lifts the curtain to the Holy of Holies and reveals our ability to enter in and stand before the presence of God.
In this book, you will discover that God’s ability is available to every one of His children. You will be challenged to climb the heights and sound the depths of tremendous spiritual realities, including the authority of the name of Jesus and how to use it.
In His Presence has been a challenge and blessing to countless multitudes all over the world. It removes the mist surrounding the prayer life, leading us out of spiritual mysticism into the true light of life.
This is your invitation to open the door…enter…and stand in the Father’s presence!
Dr. E. W. Kenyon (1867–1948) was born in Saratoga County, New York. At age nineteen, he preached his first sermon. He pastored several churches in New England and founded the Bethel Bible Institute in Spencer, Massachusetts. (The school later became the Providence Bible Institute when it was relocated to Providence, Rhode Island.) Kenyon served as an evangelist for over twenty years. In 1931, he became a pioneer in Christian radio on the Pacific Coast with his show Kenyon’s Church of the Air, where he earned the moniker “The Faith Builder.” He also began the New Covenant Baptist Church in Seattle. In addition to his pastoral and radio ministries, Kenyon wrote extensively. Among his books are The Blood Covenant, In His Presence, Jesus the Healer, New Creation Realities, and Two Kinds of Righteousness.
More from Whitaker House
In His Presence by EW Kenyon is not written about what others were and did, but about what we are and can do! It is a lifting of the curtain and a revealing of the holy of holies and our ability to enter it and stand in the presence of the Father. In His Presence is a discovery of the fact that God’s ability is available to every child of God. This is your invitation to open the door…enter…and stand in His presence, in the presence of the Father!
Justified Means by author Chautona Havig is a contemporary Christian suspense, crime, action, intrigue novel. Is there anything this author cannot write? She successfully tackles most all genres. This contemporary suspense book was a pleasant, page turning surprise.
This is the story of Erika. She is a barista and manager of a coffee shop as well as a part time house sitter. One day her normal, not so exciting life is turned upside down when she is kidnapped. It is also the story of good guy Keith. He is a Christian with a heart for the underdog. Keith is a hero that wants to help. He is tall, muscular, and handsome. There were a lot of characters to like or dislike.
I was immediately invested in this story. Normally I am not a fan of contemporary fiction, but this one had me turning pages and mesmerized. The plot was interesting and had twists and turns galore. A few times I thought the book was over, and then it would take off in another direction.
Unfortunately, there were a few things that bothered me. The conversations were difficult to follow. Many times I had to reread a section to identify the talker. This happened often. The language bothered me in this book. The use of the coarse word for “passing gas” had me shaking my head. (I was raised that a lady did not say that word.) Other words were left to the imagination, but I didn’t even like that. The last thing is that this had a lot less spiritual and life lessons than I have come to expect in a Chautona Havig book. Some lessons were included in this novel, but not as in depth as her other ones.
I would recommend this, but not to younger readers. There is mention of human trafficking and drugs. I am glad this is part of a series. This book ended without resolution of one thing. It receives a 4 out of 5 stars from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my true words.
About the Book
Book: Justified Means
Author: Chautona Havig
Genre: Christian Suspense
Release date: January 7, 2013
How could she not be terrified?
When Erika Polowski is abducted from her bed and held captive without explanation, she has one goal. Get away before they kill her.
Keith Auger’s job as an agent is to keep Erika safe—even if it means keeping her locked in an abandoned cabin in the middle of nowhere. At gunpoint.
What should be a routine “involuntary extraction” goes south when someone finds out where they’re hiding. Add to that a coworker with a chip on her shoulder and too many unexplained “accidents,” and it all adds up to one unlikely, terrifying explanation.
There’s a mole in The Agency.
He’s promised to protect her, but can Erika trust a man whose job it is to hold people against their wills? Does his deep faith make it any better or just a whole lot creepier.
And just who wants Erika dead anyway?
The Agency Files: They’ll do whatever it takes to keep their clients safe. Period.
Chautona Havig lives in an oxymoron, escapes into imaginary worlds that look startlingly similar to ours and writes the stories that emerge. An irrepressible optimist, Chautona sees everything through a kaleidoscope of It’s a Wonderful Life sprinkled with fairy tales. Find her at chautona.com and say howdy—if you can remember how to spell her name.
More from Chautona
Isn’t That Idea a Bit Crazy and Farfetched?
Black ops teams. They’re the stuff of TV shows and movies. I have no doubt such things exist—military groups that have to exist and work outside the normal scheme of things to give those who answer to the public plausible deniability or some such thing.
Then one of those “what if?” questions hit me. They’re an occupational hazard, those “what if?” questions. They appear out of nowhere and start crazy thoughts in your head. Ones like, “What if a private company existed to do things that couldn’t be tied to the government in any way—no money exchanged?”
What if sometimes a protection company had to work outside the law in order to do the job they needed to do? What if that meant they might just have to abduct someone to save his or her life?
Those of course led to the granddaddy of all questions. What if that someone didn’t appreciate being saved?
The Agency was born and with it their motto: Whatever it takes.
That’s what they’ll do to keep their clients safe. Only the wealthy can afford their services. Some of the poorest of the poor receive them. But it always boils down to one primary goal. Protect their clients at all costs.
Even if the client doesn’t want protection.
Is the idea a bit crazy and far-fetched? Yeah… probably. But I wouldn’t be surprised to discover there are similar agencies out there, and if there are, I hope they save lives with the sort of compassion my guys have.
The Gold Digger by author Liz Tolsma is a captivating retelling of a true unsolved crime. This book is part of the True Colors series about bizarre yet true crimes. It is an historical, mystery, with intrigue, suspense and romance. I was riveted.
Set in early 1900s in LaPorte, Indiana, this is Book 9 in the series that says “Fiction Based on Strange-But True History.” It is a twisted “mail order husband” story about wealthy Belle Gunness. She has lost two husbands and many children to accidents or strange illness and disappearances. Her sister, Ingrid, comes from Norway to help her grieving sister.
Things are not as they seem. Ingrid becomes suspicious and is in danger. Too many unexplained things are happening. Her sister has changed. What is really going on at this cold, dark, farm?
I enjoyed the author’s style of writing. The story had a nice, even pace that made it easy to follow and understand. The characters were definitely quirky and well described. The historical events were unbelievable and yet they did happen. I found this to a very emotional tale.
This book will stay with readers long after it is finished. I was immediately engaged in this unusual true tale. Could it really be true? History says it is. It grabbed my attend, and I could not put down this macabre book.
I definitely recommend this for older readers. History and mystery buffs will thoroughly enjoy this. Romance lovers will, too. It will be a great book for Book Clubs. I gave it a 5 out of 5 star rating. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my true words.
About the Book
Book: The Gold Digger
Author: Liz Tolsma
Genre: Christian/Historical/Suspense
Release Date: December, 2020
Men Are Disappearing in LaPorte, Indiana
Book 9 in the True Colors series—Fiction Based on Strange-But True History
Fiction Based on Strange, But True, History
In 1907, shy but loyal Ingrid Storset travels from Norway to support her grieving sister, Belle Gunness, who owns a farm in LaPorte, Indiana. Well-to-do widow Belle, who has lost two husbands and several children, provides Ingrid with enough money to start a small business. But Ingrid is confused by the string of men Belle claims to be interviewing for her next husband. When Nils Lindherud comes to town looking for his missing brother, who said he was going to marry Belle, Ingrid has a sinking feeling her sister is up to no good.
Liz Tolsma is a popular speaker and an editor and the owner of the Write Direction Editing. An almost-native Wisconsinite, she resides in a quiet corner of the state with her husband and is the mother of three. Her son proudly serves as a U.S. Marine. They adopted all of their children internationally, and one has special needs. When she gets a few spare minutes, she enjoys reading, relaxing on the front porch, walking, working in her large perennial garden, and camping with her family.
More from Liz
This story was so much fun to write, and the research was so interesting. It has to rank up there with one of my favorite books to write. That’s what makes my job the best around.
There are a great number of characters in The Gold Digger who are historical. Many of the places I mention are also historical. I had the pleasure of spending a day in LaPorte, Indiana, to research the book and take some pictures they had in the museum there. Research is one of my favorite aspects to writing. I could have spent much, much longer losing myself in the museum and in the archives. Good thing my cousin, who I was staying with, called me to let me know that it was getting dark and she had dinner ready, otherwise who knows how long I would have been there. Probably until they kicked me out!
One thing that the people of LaPorte would want you to know is that they really are nice people and that their town is a nice town. Lots of good people have been born there or have lived there over the years, including Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts, William Mayo, who founded Mayo Clinic, and William Scholl, who found Dr. Scholl’s. They kept emphasizing to me while I was there what a great place LaPorte is. Judging by their friendliness and helpfulness, I would have to agree.
To help you better visualize the characters and setting, here are some photographs of the real people and places that appear in The Gold Digger.
Author Chautona Havig is one of my favorite Christian fiction writers. Her style is smooth and easy is read. One constant in her stories is that an inspirational message is always included. This is typically in plain sight and not hidden. I am always assured of a good read with this author. These two contemporary books are no exception. They are wonderful. How wonderful? Each receive five stars from me.
Christmas Stalkings
This is a contemporary Christian mystery, suspense. In this book we meet Wendy and Neal. They are each unique. I was immediately invested in this story and its characters. I love that there is a mystery to solve in this captivating little book. Good things come in small packages!
Wendy is such a character, no pun intended. I was laughing out loud several times at her antics. I adored that she talked to her cats. I may or may not talk to my cat and dog, and they in turn probably answer back. Wendy is the quintessential crazy cat lady. She was delightful.
Then there is Neal. He is very interesting. At first Neal comes across as rough around the edges. It seems he is an acquired taste and will begin to grow on you as you continue to read.
The novella is inspiring and entertaining. It is a short read but has a big message. I highly recommend it, especially during this time of year. It get a 5 out of 5 star from me.
I received a copy from Celebrate Lit, but these are my own, true thoughts.
New Year’s Revolutions
This is book two to the novella “Christmas Stalkings.” Even though you could read it as a stand alone, I would suggest reading them in order so that you can grasp the full story. Here we find Neal as he is beginning to fall for Wendy. There is one big problem. She is a Christian, and he is an atheist. Okay, make that a monumental problem.
Unfortunately, this is not uncommon in today’s world. Neal is rather a player. Without going into detail, the author shows Neal’s moral character by having him leave certain places or dates with a woman. He takes her back to her place or a hotel room.
Wendy and Neal are still the lovable two characters that we met in “Christmas Stalkings.” The author has done a great job with their characters. The dialog flows smoothly and sounds authentic. There are a few twists and turns to surprise readers.
Fortunately Neal undergoes a change of heart and transformation. It is one of the best lessons in the book. In fact, this book has many beautiful life and spiritual messages to glean. I highly recommend this book. It receives a 5 out of 5 star rating from me. I received a copy of this through Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own, honest ones.
About the Book
Book: Christmas Stalkings & New Year’s Revolutions
Author: Chautona Havig
Genre: Fiction / Christian / Romance / Holiday
Release Date: January 29, 2017 and December 31, 2016
Christmas Stalkings
If her life had to transform into a TV movie, couldn’t it have been a sweet romance instead of a creepy suspense?
Wendy Nabity has redefined “crazy cat lady,” and she’s just fine with that. She’s got a tree and a stocking for reach of them, too.
All that festivity turns ominous when things begin turning up in odd places—places her fur babies couldn’t move them. The local police? They think she’s as crazy as the fleas jumping from cat to cat—or something like that.
Her neighbors aren’t much help. The nice one won’t come near her, despite his obvious interest, and the other hates her enough to torment her every chance he can. Seriously, if Neal Kirkpatrick makes one more rude demand of her, she might just start dumping the litter box on his front porch!
However, when a threatening note appears in one of the stockings, even Fairbury’s police officers have to admit no cat could have written it, and one officer takes it upon himself to do something.
Who knew Christmastime could feel so sinister?
____________________________________
New Year’s Revolutions
His life is spinning out of control, and his heart isn’t far behind!
Neal Kirkpatrick: project manager, staunch atheist, and town grump. Aside from an apparent soft spot for a neighborhood boy, the man has nothing to recommend him.
So when he overhears criticism from a neighbor he secretly respects, Neal decides maybe it’s time for professional help. With the same straightforward tenacity he uses in his job, Neal goes on a hunt for a therapist to help him unravel the mystery of himself.
His therapist says he’s in love, but Neal Kirkpatrick does not do relationships.
Discover what happens when the town curmudgeon steps out of his comfort zone and into a psychologist’s office to learn what’s up with his heart.
Click here to get your copy of Christmas Stalkings!
Click here to get your copy of New Year's Revolutions!
About the Author
Chautona Havig lives in an oxymoron, escapes into imaginary worlds that look startlingly similar to ours and writes the stories that emerge. An irrepressible optimist, Chautona sees everything through a kaleidoscope of It’s a Wonderful Life sprinkled with fairy tales. Find her at chautona.com and say howdy—if you can remember how to spell her name.
More from Chautona
Sometimes, You Just Can’t Let a Character Go
I met him in my book, A Bird Died. Neal Kirkpatrick. Grumpy, snappish, the man just seemed to look for something to grouse about. Except when it comes to a little boy in the town, and then a soft side came out that no one expected.
A few years later, I got the idea for a Christmas comedic suspense “noella” (Christmas novella), and the minute I knew what I wanted to write, I knew I’d be writing about him, too. He’d be the main character’s neighbor and always on her case about something. Instant conflict and subplot. Oh, yeah!
Something unexpected happened as I wrote the story, though. I fell in love with the cranky guy and didn’t want to let him go. Did I have time to write a book for New Year’s, too? I mean, how cool would that be? After much deliberation, I decided to go for it.
I’m kind of glad I didn’t know what kind of Christmas our family would have that year or I would never have decided to do it, and I doubt Neal’s story would still be languishing in the slush-pile of my mind (for the story of our family’s Christmas that year, you might want to check out Sand & Mistletoe).
That story turned into something unexpected.
First, there was more to his story than I’d ever imagined. A dysfunctional family, a past that he didn’t even choose himself, and a rather immoral life I wouldn’t usually care to consider. But reality made me admit that a man with no concern for what the Lord says about things wouldn’t necessarily live the kind of life I think people should! Don’t worry, I didn’t do deep into those kinds of details! My prudish streak got pushed, but not pushed aside.
More than just “his side of the story,” New Year’s Revolutions tells the story of a man who sees himself through the lens of someone he respects and goes on a journey to see why he is as he is and if there is something inherently wrong with it or if the trouble lies with others (as he suspects).
Both a personal and a spiritual journey ensued that made me dig deep into Scripture to discover what it had to say about Jesus, relationships, and honesty. Neal’s discovery of what the Word says about things drove me to study and restudy things that I believed. We didn’t always come to the same conclusions, but it was interesting and I learned more than I would have expected to.
I hope you love Neal as much as I do. I know one thing for sure… this isn’t the last we’ll see of him.
To celebrate her tour, Chautona is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and a paperback copy of each book, Christmas Stalkings & New Year’s Revolutions!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
Bride by Blackmail by author Debbie Lynne Costello is a Christian historical romance novel. It captured my attention from the beginning and kept it. I was immediately invested in the characters and the story.
This is the tale of the feisty Charlotte. She has a mind of her own and a heart for God. Charlotte also has three sisters and an unreasonable, controlling father. Duncan is a Scotsman taken with the beautiful Charlotte. He blackmails her into marrying him. Sparks fly between these two. Their chemistry is undeniable.
This is a beautiful story with so many twists and turns. I enjoyed the author’s style of writing. Her vivid descriptions took me back in time to the glorious city of Charleston. It was easy to note that much research had been done and used in the story. It is definitely swoon worthy.
The characters are believable. Some were easy to befriend and love, while others not so much. Even Duncan was not the best person at times. The story offers readers so much: adventure, romance, love, deception, betrayal, and redemption.
So many spiritual and life lessons are woven throughout this mesmerizing novel. It is easy to become emotionally invested in the characters. I love a sassy Southern Belle and a dashing Scottish man. They make a sizzling couple.
I highly recommend this book. It receives 5 out of 5 stars from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my honest words.
About the Book
Book: Bride by Blackmail
Author: Debbie Lynne Costello
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Release Date: September 15, 2020
A broken heart, a controlling father, and an intrusive Scot leave Charlotte Jackson reeling. Accused of stealing an heirloom pin, she must choose between an unwanted marriage and the ruin of her family name. With the futures of her three younger sisters at stake, as well as her own reputation, Charlotte must navigate through injustice to find forgiveness and true happiness.
Eager to find the traitor that caused the death of his brother, Duncan Mackenzie comes to America and attempts to fit in with Charleston society. But when the headstrong Charlotte catches his eye, Duncan takes on a second mission—acquiring the lass’s hand. After being spurned several times, he uses unconventional ways of winning her heart.
Debbie Lynne Costello has been writing since the young age of eight. She went to college for journalism. She enjoys medieval settings and settings set in nineteenth century Charleston, South Carolina. She loves the Lord and hopes to touch people’s lives through her stories. Debbie Lynne lives in the beautiful state of South Carolina with her husband of 40 years, their 4 children, 2 Tennessee Walking horses, 2 Arabians, miniature donkey, 6 ducks, and 3 dogs.
More from Debbie
It is fun to build characters in books and one of the best ways is to show some sort of a hobby or skill that the particular character enjoys. In Bride by Blackmail, Charlotte and her sister, Nellie, are doing needlework on a tablecloth that they hope to have done by the holiday season. My grandmother who would be over a hundred today loved to do needlework. I have pieces from when she was young up until her later years when she did needlework on pillowcases to decorate them up as a Christmas present. But I also have pieces done by my great-great grandmother and her sisters. They are cherished pieces I hope to hand down for generations. As part of my giveaway I’ve purchased antique needlework and embroidered pieces to giveaway with the prizes.
Another fun way to build characters is show something they love to eat. Nellie, who is a minor character, is visiting the hero’s home with her family. Duncan being from Scotland has scones on the breakfast menu. Nellie can’t get enough of the yummy biscuits and finds the servant enjoys helping her continue her indulgence even after she leaves.
SCONES
Preheat oven to 400
2 cups of flour
1/3 cup sugar
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
½ cup sour cream
½ cup butter (hard)
½ cup cranberries
1 large egg
2 tsp. sugar (do not put this in with the dry ingredients. This is for topping.)
Mix together dry ingredients in large bowl. Once mixed well, cut hard butter into pats and drop into the bowl. Now cut the butter into the floured mixture until it is more like a crumble. Set aside.
In a small bowl, whisk together your egg and your sour cream until well mixed.
With a fork (no mixer!) blend the liquid mixture into the flour mixture, keep stirring until the mixture becomes one large ball. If you need to you can use your hands toward the end to make sure all the flour is in the ball.
On a lightly floured surface pat the dough out to about 3/4” thick. I try to make mine a rectangle for the next step. Once you have the thickness right, sprinkle with the remaining 2 tsps. sugar. Cut the dough into triangles and place on cookie sheet (you can use parchment paper on the cookie sheet). Be sure to place adequately apart on the sheet to prevent them touching when rising.
Bake approximately 15 minutes or until they are a beautiful golden color.
Allow to cool slightly. These are wonderful warm or cold!
Stories and Songs of Faith: My Journey with God by author Alexis Goring is an uplifting collection of fifty-two devotions. Personally I love devotional books. It is refreshing to read them at different times throughout the day. This one would easily slip into any time.
The author draws from her personal experiences and time with God to share with readers. While this is a weekly devotional, I kept reading them. The author’s style of writing is smooth and easy to understand. It felt like a conversation between friends. The stories are transparent and honest.
Each devotion contains scripture, a message or story, reflection questions, and a song. In the back of the book is a listing of song links. If reading on a Kindle, one just needs to click the link and the song begins playing. Genius!
This is a wonderful book filled with short devotions. I thought it was moving and gave me much to consider. I highly recommend it. It would make a perfect Christmas gift, and make sure to get a copy for yourself. I rate it 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by CelebrateLit Lit but these are my own words.
About the Book
Book: Stories and Songs of Faith
Author: Alexis Goring
Genre: Christian Devotional
Release Date: April 25, 2020
Stories and Songs of Faith: My Journey with God is a 52-week devotional that will bless your heart, soothe your soul, encourage your mind, and strengthen your God-given spirit.
Join author Alexis A. Goring on an inspirational journey. Each devotional builds from real-life experiences that impart many faith lessons learned along the way.
Each day is built on the foundation of a Bible verse or edifying quote, followed by Goring’s personal story and reflection questions for a personalized experience.
All of the devotionals are tied to a song in order to go a little deeper into the heart of the message. A song directory at the end of the book connects the reader with music online to further enhance the study experience and glorify God.
Spend a year on a journey growing closer to the Lord through Stories and Songs of Faith, and discover personal transformation as time with Jesus Christ changes your heart to look a little more like His.
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 the enduring, forever love of Jesus Christ.
More from Alexis
Stories and Songs of Faith: My Journey with God was published in April 2020.
However, the idea for this devotional wasn’t a thought in my head until around the beginning of last year. It’s interesting because though I have been writing devotions since recovering from a health crisis at age 16, and have had my devotionals published in books, on blogs and on websites since then, I never thought of putting together a book filled with my original devotions until January 2019.
It’s amazing how God works! Because at the time that God inspired this project, I was actually still trying to recover from writer’s block and work on another fiction book which I planned to have published before the end of that year. But God had other plans.
And His plans were (and always are) perfect!
God put this devotional on my heart and I went to it! First, I gathered all of the devotions that I’d written over the years that were published on other blogs. Since they didn’t pay me to publish my work, I still had the rights to each one. So that meant I now had about 25 percent of the content for my book! Next, I reached out to the women’s devotional book editorial team who had published several of my devotions over the span of about 14 years. I planned to ask permission to re-publish those devotions that I wrote, this time in my own devotional. But later, I decided that it would be a better idea to simply write new material for my book. And so I did! But it wasn’t easy.
At first, I was barely writing more than one devotion every two or three weeks. It was then that I realized that as a trained journalist, I thrive on deadlines (never missed one). So I decided that it would help motivate me to write consistently if I gave myself a deadline for each new devotion. Around that time, I had been writing a few times a month for a friend’s blog called Whispers in Purple. I decided to sign up to write a new devotion for her blog every week until I was done putting my devotional together. So I booked myself for one of my new devotions to be published every Friday from around February 2019 through Summer 2019.
By Summer 2019, 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 because there are 52 weeks in a year.” I gave her a nod but wasn’t convinced that was the best idea for me as the author. 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 more devotions. I booked myself to be a guest on Whispers in Purple blog every Friday through the rest of that year and then finally by the end of February 2020 (the next year), 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! Long story short: My publisher had hired a new editor who has decades of professional experience in editing devotionals and she (Patty) was the editor who my publisher assigned to me! Patty had a wonderful idea that really shaped my book by giving it the perfect title and bonus idea. The title of my devotional, as you can see, is about my real-life stories and faith-based songs that guided me on my journey with God. And the fun bonus idea was to have links to the songs that I mentioned in each devotion. These links were made available for the reader in a song directory at the end of my devotional in both the print and e-book versions. Even better, the link is live if you are using a Kindle to read my book meaning that the reader can just click on the hyperlink and hear the song via YouTube while using their Kindle app or Kindle device, without having to look it up first online. Patty said that there’s really not another book on the market yet with this kind of idea and format. She told me 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 (praise the Lord!): He allowed 20 professionals from a variety of backgrounds and life experiences to agree to read an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) of my book and write an endorsement. We’re talking 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.com! That has never happened to me before (I have three other books published though they are all fiction stories but this devotional is my first nonfiction work).
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. Every entry is backed by Scripture, as well as highlights meaningful songs that God has used to touch the author’s heart. As a fellow journalist, I love how the author uses her talent of observation to see God at work all around her as well as the use of thought-provoking questions at each devotional’s end to further connect our lives to that entry’s theme and the Scripture truth it has been based on. If you are looking for a devotional that is short but powerful, this is it. It would be a perfect gift for a special person in your life.”
Morgan’s words about how reading my devotional made her feel like she was having coffee with a close friend and talking about God is how I want every person who reads my book to feel. And if you don’t like coffee then we can have tea or ice water! 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.
To celebrate her tour, Alexis is giving away the grand prize package of a $10 Starbucks gift card, an eBook copy of “Hope in My Heart: A Collection of Heartwarming Stories”, and a signed copy of Alexis’ devotional book!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
Christmas Stalkings
Abba's Prayer Warrior Princess 