Georgiana Daniels

SCORNED JUSTICE

2013-03-29T09:55:00.001-07:00

I've been reading Margaret Daley books for a loooong time because she has a way of taking me into a story world and bringing me along for the ride. Scorned Justice is the 3rd book in the Men of the Texas Rangers series, and I'm not sure how on earth I missed the second book! Looks like I have some catching up to do ;) Romantic suspense fans will want to give this one a shot!

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Scorned Justice Abingdon Press (April 1, 2013) by Margaret Daley

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Margaret Daley is an award winning, multi-published author in the romance genre. One of her romantic suspense books, Hearts on the Line, won the American Christian Fiction Writers’ Book of the Year Contest. Recently she has won the Golden Quill Contest, FHL’s Inspirational Readers’ Choice Contest, Winter Rose Contest, Holt Medallion and the Barclay Gold Contest. She wrote for various secular publishers before the Lord led her to the Christian romance market. She currently writes inspirational romance and romantic suspense books for the Steeple Hill Love Inspired lines, romantic suspense for Abingdon Press and historical romance for Summerside Press. She has sold eighty-three books to date.

Margaret was the president of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), an organization of Christia writers with over 2300 members. She was one of the founding members of the first ACFW local chapter, WIN in Oklahoma. She has taught numerous classes for online groups, ACFW and RWA chapters. She enjoys mentoring other authors.

Until she retired a few years ago, she was a teacher of students with special needs for twenty-seven years and volunteered with Special Olympics as a coach. She currently is on the Outreach committee at her church, working on several projects in her community as well as serving on her church’s vestry.

On a more personal note, she has been married for over forty years to Mike and has one son and four granddaughters. She treasures her time with her family and friends.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Texas Ranger Brody Calhoun is with his parents in west Texas when an unexpected attack injures the brother of Rebecca Morgan, Brody's high school sweetheart. The local sheriff, a good friend, asks for Brody's help. At first, it seems like an open-and-shut case. However, as Brody digs deeper, he realizes the attack may be related to an organized crime trial Rebecca will be overseeing. With Rebecca's help, he compiles evidence which involves cattle rustlers, bribery, and dirty payoffs that shatter the entire community and put Rebecca directly in the line of fire.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Scorned Justice, go HERE.

So Shines the Night

2013-03-25T05:00:00.000-07:00

This is my favorite Tracy Higley book to date! So Shines the Night takes place in Ephesus when the Church was first finding its way. The struggle between the people of "The Way" and the followers of Artemis--not to mention a group of sorcerers--makes for a powerful story of coming to faith in ancient times. The rich details were enough to make this history buff devour the story and leave me wanting the book not to end. Action, romance, and mystery work together to make this one of my highly recommended books!

It is time for a FIRST Wild Card Tour book review! If you wish to join the FIRST blog alliance, just click the button. We are a group of reviewers who tour Christian books. A Wild Card post includes a brief bio of the author and a full chapter from each book toured. The reason it is called a FIRST Wild Card Tour is that you never know if the book will be fiction, non~fiction, for young, or for old...or for somewhere in between! Enjoy your free peek into the book!

You never know when I might play a wild card on you!

Today's Wild Card author is:

Tracy L. Higley

and the book:

So Shines the Night

Thomas Nelson (March 12, 2013)

***Special thanks to Tracy L. Higley for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Tracy L. Higley started her first novel at the age of eight and has been hooked on writing ever since. She has authored nine novels, including Garden of Madness and Isle of Shadows. Tracy is currently pursuing a graduate degree in Ancient History and has traveled through Greece, Turkey, Egypt, Israel, Jordan and Italy, researching her novels and falling into adventures. See her travel journals and more at TracyHigley.com

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

On an island teetering at the brink of anarchy, Daria finds hope among people of The Way.

She escaped a past of danger and found respite in beautiful Ephesus, a trading center on the Aegean coast, serving as tutor to Lucas, the wealthy merchant who rescued her.

But the darkness she fled has caught up with her.

The high priests of Artemis once controlled the city, but a group of sorcerers are gaining power. And a strange group who call themselves followers of The Way further threaten the equilibrium. As Daria investigates Lucas’s exploits into the darker side of the city, her life is endangered, and she takes refuge in the strange group of believers. She’s drawn to Paul and his friends, even as she wrestles with their teachings.

When authorities imprison Lucas for a brutal crime, Daria wonders if even Paul’s God can save him. Then she uncovers a shocking secret that could change everything—Lucas’s fate, her position in his household, and the outcome of the tension between pagans and Christians. But only if she survives long enough to divulge what she knows.

“Meticulously-researched, spellbindingly written with luscious prose and compelling and complex characters.” —Tosca Lee, New York Times best-selling author of Havah: The Story of Eve

Product Details:
List Price: $15.99
Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (March 12, 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1401686826
ISBN-13: 978-1401686826

AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:

Prologue

I am an old man, and I have seen too much.

Too much of this world to endure any more. Too much of the next to want to linger.

And though I have nearly drowned in the glorious visions of those last days, yet I know not when it shall come, nor how many years I must tread this barren earth before all is made new.

There is a Story, you see. And we are still in the midst of it, ever striving to play our roles, battling on for the freedom of hearts and souls and minds yet enslaved by darkness.

But I have seen a great light. Oh yes, I have seen it. Even now it is breaking through, as it did on that grassy hillside so many cool spring mornings ago, when Moses and Elijah walked among us and my Brother shone with the glory He had been given from the beginning and will rise up to claim again at the end.

You will wonder, perhaps, at my calling Him brother. And yet that is what He was to me. Brother and friend, before Savior, before Lord. In those days when we wandered the land, going up and down from the Holy City, we shared our hearts, our lives, our laughter. Oh, how we laughed, He and I! He had the irrepressible joy of one who sees beyond the brokenness, to the restoration of all.

I loved him. And He loved me.

But I speak of beginnings and of endings, and these are words that have no meaning, for the day of His birth was both the beginning of the Kingdom and the end of tyranny, and that magnificent Day yet to come—it is the end-which-is-a-beginning, and my eyes have seen such glory in that New Jerusalem, my very heart breaks to tell of it.

And yet they come, young and old, to this tiny home in Ephesus that is to be my last dwelling outside that New City, and they beg me to tell the Story again and again.

And I do.

I tell of seals and scrolls, of a dragon and a beast and a Lamb. Of music that makes you weep to hear it and streets that blind the mortal eye. Of a Rider on a White Horse with eyes of blazing fire, whose name is Faithful and True. It is a great Story, and greater still to hear the final consummation of it, for how often we forget that we are living it still.

But I have another tale to tell. A smaller story within the One True Story that began before the creation of this world and is echoed at its end, as all our stories are. It happens here, in this port city of Ephesus but many years ago, when the darkness lay even heavier than it now does upon the people, and their souls cried out for relief from anyone who could give it.

This smaller story does not begin here in Ephesus, however. It begins a day’s sail away, on the sun-kissed shores of the Isle of Rhodes, where the light first began to break upon one woman and one man, even as they walked in darkness . . .

Chapter 1

Rhodes, AD 57

In the glare of the island morning sun, the sea blazed diamond-bright and hard as crystal, erratic flashes spattering light across Daria’s swift departure from the house of her angry employer.

She carried all she owned in one oversized leather pouch, slung over her shoulder. The pouch was not heavy. A few worn tunics and robes, her precious copy of Thucydides. She clutched it to her side and put her other hand to the gold comb pinning the dark waves of her hair, her one remaining luxury.

The bitter and familiar taste of regret chased her from the whitewashed hillside estate, down into the squalid harbor district. Why had she not kept silent?

Along the docks hungry gulls shrieked over fishy finds and work-worn sailors traded shrill insults. The restless slap of the sea against the hulls of boats kept time with the anxious rhythm of her steps against the cracked gray stones of the quay.

She had run once, haunted and guilty to a fresh start in Rhodes. Could she do it again? Find a way to take care of herself, to survive?

“Mistress Daria!”

The voice at her back was young and demanding, the tenor of a girl accustomed to a world arranged to her liking. And yet still precious, still malleable.

“Mistress! Where are you going?”

Daria slowed, eyes closed against the pain, and inhaled. She turned on the sun-warmed dock with a heaviness that pulled at her limbs like a retreating tide.

Corinna’s breath came quick with exertion and the white linen of her morning robe clung to her body. The sweet girl must have run all the way.

“To the School of Adelphos, Corinna. I will seek a position there.”

Corinna closed the distance between them and caught Daria’s hand in her own. Her wide eyes and full lips bespoke innocence. “But you cannot! Surely, Father did not mean what he said—”

Daria squeezed the girl’s eager fingers. “It is time. Besides”—she tipped Corinna’s chin back—“you have learned your lessons so well, perhaps you no longer need the services of a tutor.”

Corinna pulled away, dark eyes flashing and voice raised. “You do not believe that, mistress. It is you who says there is always more to learn.”

They drew the attention of several young dockworkers hauling cargo from ship to shore. Daria stared them down until they turned away, then circled the girl’s shoulders, pulled her close, and put her lips to Corinna’s ear. “Yes, you must never stop learning, dear girl. But it must be someone else who teaches you—”

“But why? What did you say to anger Father so greatly?”

Only what she thought was right. What must be said. A few strong phrases meant to rescue Corinna from a future under the thumb of a husband who would surely abuse her.

Daria smiled, fighting the sadness welling in her chest, and continued her trudge along the dock toward the school. “I am afraid discretion is one of the things I have not yet learned, Corinna. Your father is a proud man. He will not brook a mere servant giving him direction in the running of his household.”

Corinna stopped abruptly at the water’s edge, her pretty face turned to a scowl. “You are no mere servant! You are the most learned tutor I have ever had!”

Daria laughed and looked over the sea as she walked, at the skiffs and sails tied to iron cleats along the stone, easy transportation to the massive barges that floated in the blue harbor, awaiting trade. Papyrus and wool from Egypt, green jade and aromatic spices from far eastern shores, nuts and fruits and oils from Arabia. Her eyes strayed beyond the ships, followed northward along the rocky Anatolian coast to cities unknown, riddles to be unraveled, secrets and knowledge to be unlocked. More to learn, always. And somewhere perhaps, the key to redeeming the past.

They approached and skirted the strange symbol of the isle of Rhodes, the toppled Helios that once stood so proud and aloof along the harbor and now lay humbled, its bronze shell speckled to an aged green, reflecting the impenetrable turquoise sky. The massive statue had lain at the quay for gulls to peck and children to climb for nearly three hundred years since the quake brought it down. Daria found it disturbing.

“May I still visit you at the school, Mistress Daria?”

She smiled. “One challenge at a time. First I must convince Adelphos that he should hire me.”

Corinna’s tiny sandals scurried to keep pace. “Why would he not?”

“It is not easy to be an educated woman in a man’s world of philosophy and rhetoric. There are few men who appreciate such a woman.”

“How could anyone not appreciate someone as good, as brave, as you?”

The child gave her too much credit. She was neither good, nor brave. She would not be here in Rhodes if she were. Though she was trying. The gods knew, she had been trying.

Corinna lifted her chin with a frown in the direction of the school. “I shall simply explain to Adelphos how very valuable you are.”

And how outspoken? Interfering? But perhaps the girl could help in some way.

“Will you demonstrate some of what I have taught you, Corinna?”

The girl’s eyes lit up. “Just wait, mistress. I shall amaze and delight that crusty old Adelphos.”

Daria studied the impetuous girl and bit her lip. But it was a chance she must take.

The School of Adelphos lay at the end of the docks, its modest door deceptive. Daria paused outside, her hand skimming the rough wood, and inhaled determination in the sharp tang of salt and fish on the breeze. Who would believe that such distinguished men as the poet Apollonius and Attalus the astronomer had studied and written and debated behind this door? Sea trade had kept Rhodes prosperous for centuries, but in the two hundred years under Roman control, the Greek island had grown only more beautiful, a stronghold of learning, of arts and sciences and philosophy.

Inside its most famous school, she blinked twice and waited for her sun-blind eyes to adjust.

“Daria!” Adelphos emerged from the shadows of the antechamber with a cool smile and tilt of his head. Tall and broad-shouldered, he was several years her senior, with the confident ease of an athlete, a man aware of his own attractiveness.

She returned the smile and straightened her back. “Adelphos. Looking well, I am pleased to see.”

He ran a gaze down the length of her, taking in her thin white tunic and the pale blue mantle that was the best of her lot. “As are you.”

“I have come to make you an offer.”

At this, his eyebrows and the corner of his mouth lifted in amusement and he gave a glance to Corinna, still at the door. “Shouldn’t we send your young charge home first?”

She ignored the innuendo. “My employ as Corinna’s tutor will soon come to an end, and I desire to find a place here, in your school. As a teacher.” She swallowed against the nervous clutch of her throat.

Again the lifted eyebrows, but Adelphos said nothing, only strolled into the lofty main hall of the school, a cavernous marble room already scattered with scholars and philosophers, hushed with the echoes of great minds.

She gritted her teeth against the condescension and beckoned Corinna to follow, with a warning glance to keep the girl quiet, but the child’s sudden intake of breath at the fluted columns and curvilinear architraves snapped unwanted attention in their direction, the frowns of men annoyed by disruptive women.

Adelphos disappeared into the alcove that housed the school’s precious stock of scrolls—scrolls Daria had often perused at her leisure and his generosity.

Daria spoke to his back. “Do you doubt my abilities—”

“What I doubt, my lady, is a rich man’s willingness to pay a woman to teach his sons.”

Daria waved a hand. “Bah! What difference does it make? I can do a man’s work just as well. And if they learn, they learn!” But a cold fear knotted in her belly.

Adelphos traced his fingertips over the countless nooks of scrolls, as if he could find the one he sought simply by touching its ragged edge. “And you, Daria? Do you want to live a man’s life as well as do a man’s work? What woman does not long for love and family and hearth?”

Her throat tightened at his words, too close to the secrets of her heart. Yes, she longed for those comforts. For a love that would accept her abilities, complement rather than suppress. But for now, for now she had no one and she must assure her own welfare.

She coughed to clear the dryness of her throat and stepped beside him, examined the great works of philosophy and literature, their tan Egyptian papyri wrapped in brown twine, sealed in waxy red.

Adelphos reached past her to a nook above her head, and his muscled arm brushed her shoulder.

The touch was intentional, clearly. Manipulative. Even so, his nearness left her breathless and her usual sharp-tongued wit failed. When she spoke, it was a harsh whisper, too raw with emotion, though the words emerged falsely casual. “And why should I not have both?”

At this, Adelphos huffed, a derisive little laugh, and turned to lean his back against the shelves and unroll the scroll he had retrieved.

“A woman of ambition. Does such a breed truly exist?” His gaze darted to hers. “But what am I saying? You have already wedded a husband, have you not?”

Daria pulled a scroll from its recess and pretended to study it.

“You are interested in the work of Pythagoras? That one is newly arrived from Samos.”

Daria shrugged. “I find his work repetitive. What new has he added to Euclid’s previous efforts?”

“Indeed.” Adelphos pulled the scroll from her hands and replaced it in its nook. “But you have not answered my question.”

“I am a widow, yes.”

“A widow with no sons. No dowry.” He glanced at Corinna, clutching the doorway. “And no employment. Is there anything more desperate?”

Daria lifted her chin and met his gaze. “It seems you are in an enviable position, then, Adelphos. You have found a skilled teacher, available for a bargain.”

Adelphos circled to Corinna, an appreciative gaze lingering on her youth and beauty. “And this is your prize specimen? The pupil of whom I have heard such wonders?”

The girl straightened and faced Adelphos with a confidence borne of knowledge. “Shall I demonstrate the superior skill Mistress Daria has given me with languages?”

Daria silently cheered and blessed the girl. “Corinna has been working hard to master the tongues of Rome’s far-flung empire.”

Adelphos’s brow creased and he opened his lips as if to speak, then sealed them and nodded once. No doubt he wanted to ask what use there might be for a girl who could speak anything but common Greek. As Daria herself was such a girl, the implicit question struck a nerve. She turned a shoulder to Adelphos and nodded encouragement to Corinna. “Let us hear Herodotus in the Classical first, then.”

The girl grinned, then gushed a passage of Herodotus in the proud language of her Greek forebears, the language of literature and poetry, before Alexander had rampaged the world and equalized them all with his common koine.

“And now in Latin, Corinna.”

The girl repeated the passage, this time in the tongue of the Romans, the new conquerors.

Adelphos tilted his head to study the girl, then spoke to her in Latin. “Anyone can memorize a famous passage in a foreign tongue. Few can converse in it.”

Corinna’s eyelashes fluttered and she glanced at her hands, twisted at her waist. When she answered, it was not in Latin, but in Persian. “Fewer still can converse in multiple languages at once, my lord.”

Adelphos chuckled, then glanced at Daria. “She does you proud, lady.”

A glow of pride, almost motherly, warmed Daria’s chest. “Indeed.”

Corinna reached out and gripped Adelphos’s arm, bare beneath his gleaming white tunic. “Oh, it is all Mistress Daria’s fine teaching, I assure you, my lord. I wish to be an independent woman such as she someday. There is nothing she cannot do.”

“Corinna.” Daria smiled at the girl but gave a tiny shake of her head.

Corinna withdrew her hand and lowered her eyes once more. “I have told my father this, but he does not understand—”

“Her father has been most pleased with her progress.” Daria tried to draw Adelphos’s attention. “He saw a superior mind there from an early age and was eager to see it developed.”

He waved a hand in the air. “I have seen enough. You may go.”

Wings of Glass

2013-03-20T05:00:00.000-07:00

Saying this book is riveting sounds like such a cliche that I almost hate to say that this book is riveting! First clue? I breezed through this story in 24 hours--do you know how many things I have to set aside to read a book that fast? The book is about a woman trying to escape an abusive marriage, but it's really about being human and making mistakes, and doing the best you can in the circumstances you have. The book takes place in a world where Christians aren't perfect, and neither is life. The ending was so satisfying that I can't bring myself to start another book. Still savoring this one.

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Wings of Glass Tyndale House Publishers (March 1, 2013) by Gina Holmes

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Gina Holmes began her career in 1998, penning articles and short stories. In 2005 she founded the influential literary blog, Novel Journey now called Novel Rocket and she is also the founder of Inspire The Fire.

Her debut, Crossing Oceans, was a Christy and Gold Medallion finalist and winner of the Carol Award, INSPY, and RWA’s Inspirational Reader’s Choice, as well as being a CBA, ECPA, Amazon and PW Religion bestseller. Her sophomore novel, Dry as Rain, was also named a Christy finalist. Her upcoming novel, Wings of Glass will releases this month. She holds degrees in science and nursing and currently resides with her family in southern Virginia. She works too hard, laughs too loud, and longs to see others heal from their past and discover their God-given purpose.

ABOUT THE BOOK

From the bestselling author of Crossing Oceans comes a heart-rending yet uplifting story of friendship and redemption. On the cusp of womanhood, Penny is swept off her feet by a handsome farmhand with a confident swagger. Though Trent Taylor seems like Prince Charming and offers an escape from her one-stop-sign-town, Penny’s happily ever after lasts no longer than their breakneck courtship. Before the ink even dries on their marriage certificate, he hits her for the first time. It isn’t the last, yet the bruises that can’t be seen are the most painful of all.

When Trent is injured in a welding accident and his paycheck stops, he has no choice but to finally allow Penny to take a job cleaning houses. Here she meets two women from very different worlds who will teach her to live and laugh again, and lend her their backbones just long enough for her to grow her own.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Wings of Glass, go HERE.

MEMORY OF MURDER

2013-03-15T05:00:00.000-07:00

I'm loving me some Love Inspired Suspense lately! Fast paced and filled with turns and, of course, romance, Memory of Murder is a must read for suspense fans. The LIS is turning out to have such a great lineup!

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Memory of Murder Love-Inspired Suspense by Ramona Richards

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A word from Ramona:

The hardest biographical sketch to write is always your own, whether or not you’re a writer by profession. You can’t decide what to throw in, what to leave out, and whether or not you should list strengths and flaws, or just strengths.

I like writing and telling stories so much that I once tried to live out a few. After getting a master’s in English, I went on to be the seneschale of my local Society for Creative Anachronism. I had a rocky start, but I did get better. (Robin Hood, eat your heart out.)

People often ask members of the SCA, “Are you in a play?” so I thought it would be fun to do that, too. For seven years, I produced and performed in shows staged by Nashville’s Circle Players.

Although I’m single now, I married in 1982 and in 1987 had Rachel. She’s a cutie. Severely disabled, she’s the heroine of many an article for Special Ed Today magazine. Rachel's nurse, Phyllis, is the real life heroine of “An Act of Desperation,” which I sold to Chicken Soup for the Caregiver’s Soul.

I’m not really a complex person, and my dreams are fairly straightforward: sell books, have enough money to pay the bills and travel a bit, and settle into a cottage. In early 2006, I bought the cottage, which is now more or less swamped by books and DVDs. I write at night (I’m a lifelong night owl), and I occasionally escape by scuba diving, hiking, dancing, and going to movies and bookstores.

I’ve gone to the same church since 1993, and I even sing in the choir. It’s a small but awesome church. I’m no angel, although occasionally I play one in the backyard.

I like staying busy. Life is too short not to follow your dreams.

ABOUT THE BOOK

THE SECRETS OF HER PAST COULD IMPERIL HER FUTURE

Lindsey Presley certainly can't imagine why anyone would want her dead-though she knows she wouldn't be alive today if not for the local cop who saved her from two murder attempts. Deputy Jeff Gage has worked difficult cases, but with only Lindsey's fractured memories of a broken past to guide him, this is by far his most challenging.

For Lindsey, fleeing the town she has come to call home is unthinkable. Separately, they are vulnerable, but together, Jeff and Lindsey just may stand a chance of catching a ruthless killer.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Memory of Murder, go HERE.

Watch the book video trailer:

SWEPT AWAY

2013-03-13T05:00:00.000-07:00

Can I just say how much I love reading Mary Connealy's books? I practically have to wash the trail dust out of my mouth because I feel like I'm literally in the story! Swept Away starts with a bang and doesn't let up. If you're a fan of cowboys and romance--always peppered with a dash of humor--pick this one up.

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Swept Away Bethany House Publishers (March 1, 2013) by Mary Connealy

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Mary Connealy writes romantic comedy with cowboys. She is a Christy Award Finalist, a Carol Award Finalist and an IRCC Award finalist.

The Lassoed in Texas Series, Petticoat Ranch, Calico Canyon and Gingham Mountain. Petticoat Ranch was a Carol Award Finalist. Calico Canyon was a Christy Award Finalist and a Carol Award Finalist. These three books are now contained in one large volume called Lassoed in Texas Trilogy.

The Montana Marriages Series, Montana Rose, The Husband Tree and Wildflower Bride. Montana Rose was a Carol Award Finalist.

Cowboy Christmas—the 2010 Carol Award for Best Long Historical Romance, and an Inspirational Readers Choice Contest Finalist.

The Sophie's Daughters series. Doctor in Petticoats, Wrangler in Petticoats, Sharpshooter in Petticoats.

She is also the author of; Black Hills Blessing a 3-in-1 collection of sweet contemporary romances, Nosy in Nebraska, a 3-in-1 collection of cozy romantic mysteries and she's one of the three authors contributing to Alaska Brides with her Carol Award Winning historical romance Golden Days.

ABOUT THE BOOK

When a cowboy focused on revenge encounters a woman determined to distract him, there's going to be trouble in Texas!

Swept away when her wagon train attempts a difficult river crossing, Ruthy MacNeil isn't terribly upset at being separated from the family who raised her. All they've ever done is work her to the bone. Alive but disoriented, she's rescued by Luke Stone...so unfortunately, there are more chances to die in her immediate future.

Luke is on a mission to reclaim the ranch stolen from his family. But the men currently on the property won't let it go without a fight. Luke plans to meet up with friends who will help him take back the land, and since he can't just leave Ruthy in the middle of nowhere, she's going to have to go with him.

But the more time Luke spends around the hardworking young woman, the more he finds himself thinking of things besides revenge. Will Ruthy convince him to give up his destructive path and be swept away by love?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Swept Away, go HERE.

2013-03-08T05:00:00.000-07:00

Strands of Deception

This one just arrived in the mail so I haven't finished it....YET. But man, it's a great start to the book and I can't wait to dig back in!

Edited to add: Just finished the book and I have to say: love it! It's the perfect blend of suspense and romance, with a really cool science angle that kept me hooked all the way through. Now I need to go back and read the previous books in the series. No worries if you haven't already read them because Strands of Deception stands alone, but it was so good I'd like to read the others. Highly recommend!

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Strands of Deception B&H Books (March 1, 2013) by Robin Caroll

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Born and raised in Louisiana, Robin Caroll is a southerner through and through. Her passion has always been to tell stories to entertain others. Robin’s mother, bless her heart, is a genealogist who instilled in Robin the deep love of family and pride of heritage—two aspects Robin weaves into each of her books.

When she isn’t writing, Robin spends time with her husband of twenty-plus years, her 3 beautiful daughters, 2 precious grandsons, and their character-filled pets at home—in the South, where else?

ABOUT THE BOOK

When Gina Ford, the daughter of a prominent Tennessee politician, goes missing from the University of Memphis a week after another girl was murdered on the same campus, police call in the FBI. Nick Hagar, married to his job as Special Agent in Charge, is assigned to the case, and when Gina’s body is found, her father demands justice.

Maddie Baxter is the forensic expert running DNA tests from the crime scene. When they come back without a match, Nick asks her to do a familial DNA run that yields a shocking result: the prime suspect is Adam Alexander, the very same guy who broke Maddie’s heart when she was in college.

But do scientific advancements tell the whole story? Strand of Deception offers romance, suspense, and a lively debate about the impact of DNA testing, for better or worse, on the United States justice system.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Strands of Deception, go HERE.

Resolutions are Overrated

2013-01-07T08:00:00.000-07:00

Was I supposed to make a goal or something? A resolution to torment myself with as I let day after day slip by without making sufficient progress?

Not this year!

Set aside the fact I've been in a paper snowstorm with all the house/moving stuff, and the general chaos of life. This year, I couldn't stomach making proclamations of what I plan to do....and then having that sick feeling when it doesn't happen exactly how I envisioned.

Besides, real goals are set and achieved all throughout the year, not just at the start.

Once we get past this month (book launch, move, big trip to Orlando) then I might sit down and see what I hope the future holds. Or not. For now I'm going to enjoy the season of harvest God has blessed us with, and continue to do the sowing we've been doing all along in preparation for the next.

Are you setting goals for the year? How do you plan to stick with them?

The End of the World

2012-12-21T04:00:00.000-07:00

Are we all still here? Hello....hello.....

LOL, couldn't resist posting this song from the 80's because it seemed so appropriate for the long-anticipated 12-21-12! (Never mind that it's the single worst music video ever filmed.)

We didn't know anyone who really believed a catastrophe was coming today, but I do feel sorry for the people who honestly are afraid. Years ago my hubby had a customer who thought aliens were sneaking into her home at night and spraying the food in her freezer--I can only imagine what she's thinking right now!

But the good news is, I know in whom I have believed and all of life is in His hands :D

Did you know anyone who actually believed in the Mayan apocalypse? Or any other conspiracy, for that matter?

The Santa Myth

2012-12-17T04:00:00.000-07:00

It finally happened and now all my kids know.....

......the truth....

.......about Santa.

And the tooth fairy. And the Easter bunny. Mostly they came to the conclusions on their own, but I suppose it didn't help that I was caught one night, tooth-in-hand. It wasn't long afterward that everything unraveled.

Oddly enough, if it were only up to me, I wouldn't have played and pretended with any of the three kids about Santa, etc, but since I'm not the only adult in their lives all the holiday entities were presented from the time they were tots. Other parents I know have never fostered the belief with their children and see it in the same light as lying. I have mixed feelings.

I suppose it was fun while it lasted, and it was even more fun when they discovered the truth and started chattering about the different clues over the years that should have tipped them off. My 7 year old, shaking her head, said of her 20 year old sister, "I'll bet she already knows about Santa." With a straight face I said, "You know, I believe she does."

But for all the "fun" Santa adds to Christmas, have you noticed how many kids try to keep their distance? He is quite scary, after all! What I don't like is all the extra "stuff" to overshadow the Truth during the season.

What about your family? Santa--yay or nay?

My Undoing

2012-12-14T04:00:00.001-07:00

This puzzle will be my undoing. One thousand glorious pieces! Actually, I think there's only 998 because 2 edge pieces are nowhere to be found. Not only that, but we're under pressure to finish since it's a manger scene and must be thoroughly enjoyed before Christmas!

With all that's going on in our lives, this is the last--and I do mean LAST--thing I should be working on. But it calls to me...and to my kids, when they should be doing school work. But at least it's not TV, right? RIGHT?

What about you--puzzles, yay or nay?

Digging Up Death

2012-12-13T04:00:00.000-07:00

I'm SOOOOOO excited for super friend and awesome author Gina Conroy's new release, Digging Up Death! Mystery, romance, and archaeology--really, what more could one ask for? The way Gina weaves in clues and keeps the pace and tension ratcheted up really amazes me. Definitely a fresh voice in Christian fiction. Go, Gina!!!

BLURB:

To unearth a killer, you have to get your fingernails dirty.

Archaeology Professor Mari Duggins is adjusting to life as a single mom, but she’s caught between the pull of her former flame and her ex-husband. When her colleague is murdered and her ex is accused of stealing an Egyptian artifact, Mari interferes in the FBI investigation, compelled to prove the innocence of her children’s father.

Soon she is buried deep in suspects. Her old flame, her student and tenant, the office secretary. No one is who they appear to be, and she begins to wonder where her loyalty and true affections lie.

Mari Duggins’ life caves in as she tries to excavate the truth, but realizes only God can dig her out of the hole she’s created. Will Mari sort through her muddled feelings and put her trust in someone else? Or will the truth bury her alive?

AUTHOR:

Growing up on Long Island, Gina Conroy used to think she knew where her life was headed; now she’s learning to embrace life’s detours. Some of her exciting diversions have included homeschooling her four children, where she discovered a love of archaeology and ancient Egypt, and her most recent obsession…ballroom and swing dancing.

Stop by her blog where you can get great tips for busy writers and tons of encouragement to help you along the way at Writer Interrupted. And to get your copy of Digging Up Death CLICK HERE!

We Got It!

2012-12-12T04:00:00.000-07:00

Finally! We've come to an agreement with the sellers, and barring anything unforeseen, we'll be in our new home before February :D Three bedrooms, two and a half baths, a gazillion closets, and easy access to the forest. WOOHOO!

OK, true confession: after all these years of heartache, saving, prayer, waiting, more heartache, and finally success, my first reaction wasn't an ecstatic Snoopy dance. My first emotion wasn't elation. What washed over me was a profound sense of relief. Yes, I enjoyed the moment, but it wasn't as I'd imagined. It was similar to the feeling when I got the contract with LI--happy, yes but more a sense of relief that everything I'd gone through wasn't all for naught.

Now I can get back to life. It's as though the last few weeks have been all about holding my breath and now I'm finally coming up for air. So many to-do items on my list have gone unattended, but it's time to dig in.

How about you? What have you waited and worked for over the years? What was your reaction when it finally happened?

Character Flaw

2012-12-07T04:00:00.000-07:00

Oh how I wish I was talking about one of my characters, a figment of my imagination. But alas, I mean me. These last few weeks have been hard because we're playing the waiting game and I'm so weary. It hasn't just been these weeks, but a situation that has dragged on for years and the situation might finally be resolved.

Or not.

Either way, I have no control. None. And it's a killer. I like to know how things are going to turn out, and "enjoying the journey" sounds like the perfect trip--for someone else.

So in honor of my character flaw (namely the serious lack of patience) I decided to test which personality disorder I am. Lo and behold, I am obsessive compulsive. LOL!!! Tell me something I don't know.

You May Be a Bit Obsessive Compulsive...

Meticulous and detailed oriented, you have some irrational obsessions.
Maybe it's your super neat closet or washing your hands a gazillion times.
You probably know it's weird, but you just can't stop thinking about it.
In fact, the more you think about your quirks, the more you have to do them.

What Personality Disorder Are You?

Blogthings: A Fine Line Between Insight and Stupidity

Now it's your turn. C'mon, take the test and see if it's as freakishly on target for you as for me. Then come back and tell all.....if you dare ;)

The Winner......

2012-12-06T22:16:00.000-07:00

The winner of A Promise to Protect is......

.......

.......

........

Nancee!

Thanks to all who entered :D

Guest Blogger: SHERRI JOHNSON

2012-12-06T04:00:00.000-07:00

Today I'm welcoming author Sherri Johnson to Good Times...Good Times to hear what she has to say about waiting. It's a topic near and dear to many of our hearts as we wait for that elusive contract or in my case, a house!

Take it away, Sherri!

Waiting is the hardest part. No, I’m not talking about the old Tom Petty song. I’m talking about waiting for something or someone and the patience that is required to survive during that period in your life.

Galatians 5:22-23 tells us the fruit of the Spirit is: “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” Notice the word “fruit” is singular and not plural. Just like an apple is made up of the skin, flesh, seeds and core, the fruit of the Spirit is made up of all the above mentioned things. We need to have all of those traits hanging from our spiritual fruit trees. Yikes!

It seems the Holidays are the hardest times to wait for things. Gifts to unwrap. Gatherings scheduled to see people not seen in a while. Food to eat that rarely gets prepared at other times of the year.

In the spirit of waiting, let’s focus on one part of the fruit of the Spirit. Patience.

Psalm 33:20 says, “We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield.”

Have you ever noticed that your patience is rarely tested unless you’re waiting on something? If you’re not waiting, you’re cool as a cucumber.

If you’re waiting on water to boil, does it not take forever?

If you’re waiting on a friend to come over, you look out the window every time you hear a noise.

When you’re expecting a package to arrive, do you not listen out for the UPS truck all day long?

The worst waiting is the waiting you do when someone is sick and you’re waiting on the diagnosis. In 2001, my dad was diagnosed with malignant brain tumors which stemmed from a melanoma on his leg. The cancer had metastasized and he was given four to six weeks to live. After brain surgery to remove as much of the tumors as possible, and a few weeks of radiation and one chemo treatment, we waited. We hoped for a miracle but we also knew the outlook was not good. Those weeks stretched out to nearly five months, and included a broken hip from a fall, a blood clot, and the loss of scripture memory. Dad was a preacher, so this was the hardest part for him and a difficult thing for us to see. At first, we wanted more time but after five months, we begged for God to quickly take Dad home.

When my daughter broke her back in a car accident and was on bed rest for six weeks and in a back brace for three months, we waited for her health to return to her. She waited for the first opportunity to get out of the house and go spend time with friends.

When my husband lost his job in 2009, we waited for nearly ten months for a new job. During that time of waiting, we saw the Lord’s provisions in ways we could have never seen otherwise.

Recently, some friends of ours were expecting twins, their first children. They knew early on that there were heart issues with the babies and that at least one of them would require surgery when born. They hoped to make it to thirty-two weeks in the pregnancy but there were no guarantees. They did indeed make it that far and the babies were born and cared for as anticipated. During their wait, the mother of the new dad and one of my most precious friends was diagnosed with leukemia. Again their family waited to hear the diagnosis of whether it was chronic or acute leukemia and what treatment would need to be done. We watched this family do nothing but wait for months. But we also saw their faith and their patience grow as they saw people reach out to them in their time of need and as they heard and felt the prayers that others sent up for them.

I’ve waited for many things throughout the years. As a writer, I’ve spent much time waiting for each step along the journey to and beyond publication. My patience has been tested and I’ve often felt like I wasn’t accomplishing anything—just spinning my wheels. Yet, when I waited patiently and put my hope in the Lord, I received my reward and treasured it all the more.

Although waiting is not enjoyable, it’s a part of life. It helps us learn patience and prevents us from making mistakes. Sometimes we wait and don’t understand why. Later, we see that it was God’s way of protecting us—often from ourselves. Yes, even when Dad passed on to join my mother, many treasures were recognized because of the wait.

Patience is part of the fruit of the Spirit and possibly the one piece that makes the fruit the sweetest. Commit today to wait on the Lord with patience. It is a virtue and will always serve you well.

Bio: Sherri Wilson Johnson - Where Faith and Fiction Collide. Sherri is a former homeschooling mother, writer and speaker who loves to share her life with others. http://sherriwilsonjohnson.com

A Promise to Protect

2012-12-05T04:00:00.000-07:00

I've always enjoyed Liz Johnson's romantic suspense books, but I believe this one is her best yet! We've got a hot Navy SEAL hero and a heroine who nurtures and protects others while also kicking butt. There is great romantic tension and the suspense...well....every time I thought I could relax--boom! More than that, I walked away after reading the story really pondering the spiritual theme and how it applies to me. Seriously a page turner. Highly recommend!

On a side note, I got to meet Liz this year at the ACFW conference and I have to say she is so sweet! Such a blessing to know a new friend and spread the word about her book.

Even better--Liz is offering a FREE COPY today to the winner of the drawing. Enter your name and email address so I can contact you, and we'll hold the drawing after midnight EDT. Thanks, Liz!

In case you don't win, CLICK HERE to get your copy. Read below for further details about A Promise to Protect:

Navy SEAL Matt Waterstone knows about keeping people safe. When his best friend's sister is attacked, Matt promises no harm will come to Ashley Sawyer—not on his watch. But Matt's not the only protective one. Ashley will do anything to safeguard the residents of the battered women's shelter she runs. She's sure she can handle the threats she gets in return. What she can't handle is the way Matt scales the walls around her heart. Yet when she falls prey to a crime web far more sinister than she'd realized, trusting Matt could be the only way to survive.

Author:

After graduating from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff with a degree in public relations, Liz Johnson set out to work in the Christian publishing industry, which was her lifelong dream. In 2006 she got her wish when she accepted a publicity position at a major trade book publisher. While working as a publicist in the industry, she decided to pursue her other dream-becoming an author. She is now a New York Times bestselling author of A Star in the Night (in A Log Cabin Christmas Collection), The Kidnapping of Kenzie Thorn, Vanishing Act, Code of Justice, and A Promise to Protect.
Liz makes her home in Nashville, TN, where she enjoys exploring the local history, theater, and making frequent trips to Arizona to dote on her two nephews and three nieces. She loves stories of true love with happy endings.

Don't Call My Baby Ugly

2012-12-03T04:00:00.000-07:00

The gritty need for approval--it's in all of us in some form or another. Sure, we can block it out from time to time. We might even get "spiritual" enough to rely solely on God for approval. (I'm not there yet. I've seen snippets, but haven't walked in it fully.)

Now that early reviews of my book are trickling in, I'm starting to get that niggling feeling of what-if-they-don't-like-it. Digging deeper, I'm not certain why I care. Is it because of the time and effort that went into it? Is it because I've laid a part of myself out there for everyone to judge and review? Or is it that I can't separate my work from me as a person?

We've all felt the slam of a bad comment or review, maybe from a coworker, teacher, boss or actual reviewer. And yet....we press on. Put ourselves out there again. Some people refer to that type of behavior as being a glutton for punishment.

But I have a different thought...

Just maybe we see that there's a higher purpose for what we're doing. There's a core belief in what we have to offer that's stronger than the criticisms. A deep knowing that the fruit that's produced in our lives and as a result of our work is worth the risk.

So I press on. I plan to send out a proposal this week. I'll forge ahead with what I know needs to happen. Keep doing the next thing next.

But I can't help thinking, "Please don't call my baby ugly!"

HOLDING A COLLECTIVE BREATH

2012-11-28T04:00:00.000-07:00

It might happen--it really might!!!

After years of prayer, heartache, waiting and more waiting--we *might* finally be getting a house. This morning we went to look and fell in love with the first place (the one where someone died.) We went to see the second house down the road but the realtor couldn't get inside. No matter--the barking dog next door would've been a no-go for me!

So we submitted an offer and we should hear back by Friday 2:00 pm.

Here was our list of non-negotiables:

*QUIET neighborhood
*close to hubby's work and kids' activities
*decent-sized kitchen. No one wants to play bumper butts.
*relatively new, because we're SO not handy

The living room and dining area are smallish, but I can live with that because all the other criteria were met.

How about you? How did you go about choosing a home and what were your non-negotiables?

P.S. Prayers that they accept are offer appreciated :)

SHATTERED SILENCE

2012-11-27T04:00:00.000-07:00

Shattered Silence is the first trade-length romantic suspense that I have read by Margaret Daley, and I have to say that I'm impressed! This one has it all: a hunky Texas ranger, family issues, domestic violence, racism. It's all intrinsic to the story and and I found myself immediately immersed after the startling opening. For those of you who enjoy romantic suspense, Shattered Silence is a must-read!

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Shattered Silence Abingdon Press (September 2012) by Margaret Daley

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Margaret Daley is an award winning, multi-published author in the romance genre. One of her romantic suspense books, Hearts on the Line, won the American Christian Fiction Writers’ Book of the Year Contest. Recently she has won the Golden Quill Contest, FHL’s Inspirational Readers’ Choice Contest, Winter Rose Contest, Holt Medallion and the Barclay Gold Contest. She wrote for various secular publishers before the Lord led her to the Christian romance market. She currently writes inspirational romance and romantic suspense books for the Steeple Hill Love Inspired lines, romantic suspense for Abingdon Press and historical romance for Summerside Press. She has sold eighty-three books to date.

Margaret is currently the President for American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), an organization of over 2300 members. She was one of the founding members of the first ACFW local chapter, WIN in Oklahoma. She has taught numerous classes for online groups, ACFW and RWA chapters. She enjoys mentoring other authors.

Until she retired a few years ago, she was a teacher of students with special needs for twenty-seven years and volunteered with Special Olympics as a coach. She currently is on the Outreach committee at her church, working on several projects in her community as well as serving on her church’s vestry.

On a more personal note, she has been married for over forty years to Mike and has one son and four granddaughters. She treasures her time with her family and friends.

ABOUT THE BOOK

A serial killer is targeting illegal aliens in southern Texas. Texas Ranger Cody Jackson is paired with a local police officer, Liliana Rodriguez, to investigate the murders.

While the case brings Cody and Liliana ever closer, the tension between Americans and Mexican Americans heightens. As Cody and Liliana race to discover who is behind the murders and bring peace to the area, what they uncover isn't what they expected. Will Cody and Liliana's faith and love be strong enough to survive the storm of violence?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Shattered Silence, go HERE.

Throw Caution to the Wind?

2012-11-26T09:11:00.000-07:00

After 4 days of fun in the sun, time with family and a whirlwind of dizzying rides, we're back! It's the first time our family has taken a trip to Disneyland/California Adventure all together. Sadly, our oldest and her new hubby had other plans, but my sister and her family traveled out to meet us, along with my parents. In addition to simply having fun, I loved watching the group dynamics (but that's a whole 'nother post.) Suffice it to say, we had a great time!

Our youngest wasn't crazy about riding the coasters and my sister had to heed the "expectant mother" warnings. But the rest of us let 'er rip! Until it got to Space Mountain.... For some reason, I can't stomach that one. Maybe it's because the coaster is in the dark and I can't see where I'm going. As long as I know where I'm headed, I'm ok. I can tolerate the ups and downs, twists and turns because I can see the destination.

Much like life....

Then at California Adventure I was all set to go on California Screamin' but while we were in line they announced that the ride had broken down and it might be a while for repairs. Chicken-butt me got out of line. It didn't matter that it could be up in just a few minutes, because what if it broke down again while I was on the top/upside-down part of the loopty-loop?!?!

Yes, I know that all the rides break down at some point. Logic tells me that it'll be fine. Perfectly safe. But squeamish-me says, "Uh-uh. Not going there."

How about you--do you take chances and ride scary rides or do you prefer to play it safe? Throw caution to the wind or keep your feet on the ground?

It seems to me, an attitude toward coasters just might say something about one's attitude toward life ;)

Fashion Faux Pas

2012-11-19T08:35:00.002-07:00

Yesterday my hubby insisted on buying me a pair of jeans. Insisting is probably not a strong enough word--he practically forced me. You see, he's the shopper in our family--he buys my shoes, he bought my best handbag, etc--and I've been informed many times over the years that I'm missing some critical female DNA.

Back to the jeans. The ones he picked out have bling on the back pockets. It's as though my butt is saying, "Look at me! Look at me!" It's not my style, per se, but I'll try them out because hubby likes them and because, well, I need pants. Not long ago our oldest was looking at pictures from a trip when she was 8 and she said, "You're wearing the same shirt!" Again with the fashion commentary!

I'm expecting the What Not to Wear crew to show up on my doorstep any day.

While I don't want to be the proverbial frumpy housewife, I also loathe shopping and trying on clothes, and frankly I'm not impressed with most of the latest fashions. Plus I hate--wait, HATE is too mild--spending money. (Unless it's on books. Books are like air. Can't live without them.)

What about you? Do you buy the latest and greatest? Or are you like me and have a hard time caring about clothes beyond not going in public wearing jammies?

The Top 5 Things.....

2012-11-16T04:00:00.000-07:00

.....that derail my plans!

To continue my post from Wednesday--you know, the one where I'm a NANO bust--I'm going to give you the top 5 things that stream roll even my best plans:

5. Kidlets underfoot. To be fair, they are a great distraction so this not a complain but an observation. Remember, an observation....

4. Brain candy. Yep--TV. After frying my brain all day long, I need to rejuvenate with mindless interaction and laugh tracks.

3. Real candy. Or any carbs really. Snacking shouldn't be a distraction but somehow it turns into one. Generally, I can't write without eating something and sometimes I forget to stick my "seat" back in the seat.

2. Facebook! For a long time I tried to fool myself by saying checking status updates was simply part of my writing process. Really, why fight it? But now that we're getting honest....

And my #1 distraction?

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You'll never guess what it is....
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1. DOUBT. Not what you expected, was it? Recently I spent a lot of time trying to figure out the how and why of it, then more time figuring out how to combat the Doubt Monster. (I wrote about that yesterday on Writer...Interrupted if you want to see my conclusions!)

What derails you and what do you do about it???

NANO Bust!!!

2012-11-14T04:00:00.000-07:00

Have you ever gone gung-ho into an activity, sure you were going to kick butt then just fell flat on your face?

That's me! A NANO-bust!

Admittedly, the month isn't over and I'm naturally one to root for an underdog...which happens to be me, in this case...so anything could happen between now and the end of November. So what happened, you ask? Well, about 4 doctors appointments, stepping it up with the homeschool and traveling every weekend so far this month (and a few last month too!)

But it's not about excuses. It's about pulling belly-up to the keyboard and doing what needs to be done. If I don't, I'll always wonder what might have happened if I'd tried just a wee bit harder.

Are you reaching your goals this month? Are you stretching to get there?

Proudly Waving My Freak Flag!

2012-11-09T04:00:00.000-07:00

I laughed at this one because so much of what it says is true. I'm not popular, but I am proudly waving my freak flag! LOL!!!!!

You Are Emotional

You are dependable, popular, and observant.
Deep and thoughtful, you are prone to moodiness.
In fact, your emotions tend to influence everything you do.

You are unique, creative, and expressive.
You don't mind waving your freak flag every once and a while.
And lucky for you, most people find your weird ways charming!

The World's Shortest Personality Test

Blogthings: Quizzes and Tests and Memes, Oh My!

Take the test and c'mon back and give us the results!!!

And if you haven't read my post from yesterday, take a glance :)

A REAL TREAT!

2012-11-08T04:00:00.000-07:00

A Bride Sews with Love in Needles, California by Erica Vetsch is a real treat! The heroes and heroines Erica creates fascinate me, and this is no exception. You see, they aren't just emotionally/spiritually flawed--they also have other imperfections just like the rest of us making them easy to relate to. Prior to reading the book, I'd never heard of a Harvey Girl and the description of the heroine's duties and life made the story come alive! The way real historical events and people are interwoven with the lives of the characters makes the reading ever so much fun. Watch out for special "guests" in the story :)

On a personal note: congratulations, Erica, on another winner! You are so super sweet and I wish you much success, dear friend :D

Blurb:

When her brother is injured fighting in France, Meghan enlists her fellow Harvey Girl waitresses to sew a Red Cross signature quilt to raise money for wounded doughboys. Local horse breeder Caleb McBride longs to join the battle, but the army won’t take him. Because he has kept his shameful infirmity a secret, the townsfolk have labeled him a coward and war profiteer. When Meghan uncovers his malady, her poor opinion of Caleb unravels. Can this beautiful seamstress find a way to mend his heart?

Bio:

One day a few years ago, I turned to my husband and said, "I don't know if you know this, but I spend an awful lot of time in my own head." He patted my hand and gave me his this-is-not-news expression. I had just verbalized something my parents, teachers, friends, children, and spouse had known about me for years.

Though I have set aside my career teaching history to high school students in order to homeschool my own kids, my love of history hasn't faded. My favorite books are historical novels and history books, and one of my greatest thrills is stumbling across some obscure historical factoid that makes my imagination leap. I'm continually amazed at how God allows me to use my passion for history, romance, and daydreaming to craft historical romances to entertain readers and glorify Him.

Whenever I'm not following flights of fancy in my fictional world, I'm company bookkeeper for our family lumber business, mother of two terrific teens, wife to a man who is my total opposite and yet my soul-mate, and avid museum patron.

GET YOUR COPY HERE!!! And if you haven't visited Erica's blog On the Write Path, it's time to head over for a visit!