Excitement from diverse places February 6, 2018

For an author to be without words is never a good thing, but AND today I am struggling to find the right words to describe the emotions coursing through me.

 

It started this morning when I woke up grumpy. I’ve been fighting some type of sinus/cold virus for almost a month and I’m at my wits end. I wanted to whine, but didn’t want to subject anyone I love to that self-pity so I cocooned in my room, putting away laundry and trying to pray.

 

When my cell phone started chirping with text after text I grabbed it in frustration, then smiled. A dear friend was announcing the release of her first book. She’s been working on this for quite some time and I’m delighted it has all come together. The multiple texts from other members of our writers group showed all were just as happy. Reports of orders being placed on Amazon warmed my heart and energized me to get dressed and head out the door.

 

It was 10:15 and I wanted to see how many people were already in town for the much anticipated SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket. Growing up during the Space Shuttle program, I admit I grew jaded with the crowds that tromped into town for launch days. Cars clogged the roads and every empty field along the river. Families wandered into the road without looking and causing us locals to be extra vigilant as we went about our daily lives. This morning, though, I reveled in the cars parked along the side of the road and the visitors milling around. I ached to stick around and be a part of this historic day, but work called and I had to get home to get ready.

  

Early birds get the best views

The large building across the river is the Vehicle Assembly Building. Until December there was a boat from Hurricane Irma where this RV now is

Be careful, eager spectators crossing!

By the time I arrived at the office, the launch had been pushed from 1:30 to 2:20 due to upper level winds. I felt a selfish sense of hope that the launch would be scrubbed and rescheduled to tomorrow when I would be home to see it. When the next delay pushing back to 3:45 was announced, again that selfish spirit perked up.

 

As 3:00 approached, I prepared to access the SpaceX livestream. The minutes ticked down and there was no announcement of another delay or a scrub so I chose to hope that all would go well. My pulse quickened when we reached five minutes before launch. I focused on my work until we were just under two minutes then my eyes couldn’t be torn from the video. Steam billowed around the three rockets strapped together and I clasped my hands in front of my face, whispering words of encouragement as if the machine could hear me. 

 

With the last seconds my throat tightened and my breath caught. Would it fire? Would it rise off the ground? Would it explode on the spot or a few seconds into flight? Memories of Challenger gnawed at the back of my mind. The rocket rose higher and higher, three flames of fire blended into one. The excitement of the SpaceX team was tangible as each milestone was ticked off. I watched in awe, knowing how unheard of a successful test flight such as this is. I felt the tears gathering in my eyes and longed to share the excitement with a crowd of like-minded spectators. 

 

The adrenaline has faded away and I think about how long it has been since the American people had a hope for exploration beyond our own planet. We have sent machines to gather data, but we need to send people to experience the outer regions first hand, to provide information only a human can express. Today, was the first step toward sending humans beyond the International Space Station and I feel an excitement that I hope you all can share.

 

In case you missed the launch, you can watch a replay below.

A Week of Celebration July 25, 2014

Now available from your favorite book retailer

The past week has been exhilirating and exhausting. My new book, Jessie, launched on July 16, in honor of the 45th anniversary of Apollo 11. I was fortunate enough to secure a slot on the Indie Books Show for my release weekend and had a wonderful chat with the host Will Wilson. You can download it from the archives if you missed it. I also participated in a blog tour July 16-19 and visited so many blogs I lost count. It was fun to share excerpts and talk about the book to so many different people around the world.

 

My fabulous Assistant Publicist, Pam, came up with an idea to do a giveaway through some of our local restaurants the weekend of the launch. Pam called me in a panic when four of the restaurants she’d approached all called back and said they were interested only five days before the launch date. A flurry of emails flew back and forth as we designed posters, entry tickets, and menu inserts. We became regulars at our Staples copy center over the next couple of days. Many thanks to the owners of Caffe Chocolat, Dixie Crossroads, Louis’ BBQ Shack, and Shiloh’s Steak & Seafood for your wonderful support.

 

One of the most exciting and completely unexpected things that happened during this time though was an opportunity to be a part of #NASASocial, which is a program to provide opportunities for NASA’s social media followers to learn and share information about NASA’s missions, people, and programs.

 

On the evening of July 14 my mom sent me an email about an event being held at Kennedy Space Center to rename the Operations and Checkout Building in honor of Neil Armstrong, who passed away in 2012. I was already in bed, checking mail on my iPad, but I clicked the link and filled out the application. Almost exactly 48 hours later I received an email saying I’d made the first round of approvals. I then had to go through some more forms and several more layers of approvals. Then on July 18, after I finished my interview on the Indie Books Show, I checked my email and found I had officially been approved. I was estatic!

 

The event included Neil Armstrongs fellow astronauts from the Apollo 11 mission, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins as well as Jim Lovell of Apollo 13 fame, and two of Amstrongs sons, Mark & Rick. The event was held in one of the hangers originally used to prepare the Apollo capsules, which is now being used to prepare the new Orion capsule. Another section of the building is used for astronaut barracks, which I read a lot about in my research. The history in that building is inspiring. If only those walls could talk.

 

There were 23 other social media reporters along with me, and we snaked our way through the growing crowd closer and closer to the front of the room. We jostled with members of the traditional media for places where we could see past all of the NASA TV cameras. I was excited to see one of my friends from church working one of those cameras. Seeing a familiar face helped calm my racing heart.

 

Our @NASASocial leader, slowly moved us to better positions and I found myself pulled out of the tightening clutch of bodies and placed on a dias to the side of the stage with four or five others. I may not have had the front on view, but I was only ten or fifteen feet from three astronauts that I had come to respect in an entirely new way through all of my research. Of all the speakers, I think Michael Collins was my favorite. He was hilarious. If you have some free time, you can watch the entire ceremony here.

 

After the ceremony we had a break for lunch then went on a tour of the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB). The building is 524 feet tall and divided into four high bays and a transfer aisle. My dad worked in all four of the high bays at one time or another and I had a chance to visit one in 2008. Then the Space Shuttle Atlantis was in the bay being prepared for another launch. Now, three of the bays have been stripped down to their bare bones and all of the Apollo era offices are being demolished. On this visit I had a chance to go to the 35th and 16th floors for a view down into all four bays, and a closer look at the cranes used to lift the space craft from the processing bay to the transfer aisle so they could be rolled out to the launch pad. It never occurred to me that the vehicle needed to be lifted and moved from one side of the building to the center in order to exit through the tall doors.

 

I was sad to see the Space Shuttle program come to an end and believe it was put to rest too early, but I hope  we will continue to explore space. The support of the country during the early days of the space program was key in the incredible progress that was made. I hope my book will inspire a new generation to reach for the stars and seek to go even farther.

 

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Tart the New Year Off Right January 5, 2014

Three of my perfect lemons

I’m in heaven with my ripe lemons. This evening my mom asked what we could have for dessert. All of the Christmas cake and pie was gone, there was no more ice cream, and the cookie jar is nearly empty. I told her not to worry, I have lemons and a new recipe to give a whirl. To the backyard I went, plucking three giant beauties.

I zested and juiced only one of these beasts, yielding 1/2 cup of juice and at least as much zest. I whisked together the few ingredients and filled my tartlet pans, in 15 minutes we would have dessert to feed my hard-working man. You too can have these lovely tarts in no time flat, just grab a few things:

Clean Reads Authors Launch Big Sale September 14, 2013

Are you tired of blood, guts, gore, and scenes that might make grandma (or even grandpa) blush?

The authors of Clean Indie Reads have joined together to promote books you’ll be happy to share without blushing.

We’re running a one-week sale from September 18-25. My book, Julianne, along with a number of other books, will be on sale at 99 cents or even FREE.

No contests to enter or hoops to jump, just click and buy. Worry-free reads at rock bottom prices.  Support Indie authors by buying  a clean read. All of the books in the sale will be available here.

Christian Book Lovers Blog Hop June 25, 2013

Welcome to my kitchen. I hope you’ll take a break from all your hopping and have a cup of coffee. I write what I like to call real life fiction, stories that we can all relate to, and that I hope will inspire you. I’m giving away a copy of each of my books via Smashwords to one lucky winner. Just leave a comment and you will be entered into the drawing. Here’s a little about each book.

Julianne Finnegan lives in the shadow of her adored but wildly successful brother, Michael. Her professional life is a disaster, she has no sense of herself outside her family, and she can’t face another Monday. A chance encounter with Oliver, a handsome young actor, gives her the courage to leave her job and prove her real potential. Julianne’s confidence soars as she meets the challenges of revitalizing the failing community theater. The time she spends with Oliver opens her eyes to a certainty she’s never known before, even in her successful brother. But as she starts to open her heart to Oliver, an old crush returns. Gavin, a famous movie director, has been Michael’s best friend for years and loved her as a little sister. The excitement and passion Julianne has developed for the theater shocks him into realizing she is a child no longer, but a beautiful talented woman who has captured his heart. Julianne is faced with some difficult choices. Will she choose glitz or a steadfast love?

Book One of the Seasons of Faith Series Thanks to the love and support of friends and a renewed commitment to her faith Elizabeth Reynolds has moved past the hurt and anger of her parents death. Her job as concierge at Hotel Lago, a boutique hotel in downtown Orlando is challenging and fills her need to be successful but one thing is missing. She loves the historic homes in the downtown area but fears she will never be able to afford one. When a once in a lifetime opportunity to renovate a broken down home comes along she snaps it up. Sparks and clashes with her handsome, but deeply troubled contractor, Jeffrey Robbins threaten to slow the renovation but they fade as Orlando becomes the target of three summer storms, hurricanes Charlie, Frances and Jeanne. In the aftermath of the storms what be the fate of Lizzie’s home and heart?

Musician Michelle Burton just had the best night of her life. Her band Tangled Web opened for Wonderland in downtown Orlando and the crowd loved them. Too excited to sleep she makes a fateful decision to go to work early. The best night of her life turns into the worst day of her life. Nearby, at boutique Hotel Lago, Stephen Longbottom, acting concierge manager, is anxiously awaiting the arrival of the board of directors for Silken Pleasures, a multimillion dollar company based in New York and specializing in high end cosmetics, fragrances and lingerie. Their incessant demands before they even arrive are driving him to distraction. Meanwhile Lizzie Reynolds, his boss is on a romantic ski trip in Vermont leaving him to manage his first solo event. Hope, forgiveness and love are an integral message throughout the book and like a fine tapestry the threads of God’s master plan for the character’s lives are woven into a fabric of great storytelling, conflict and humor. Readers who came to know and love the characters of Summer Storms will enjoy catching up with Lizzie, Stephen, Michelle, Jeffrey and Ian.

For more chances to win, visit these participating blogs

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Have you been Twitterviewed? April 1, 2013

Last week I had the opportunity to participate in my first Twitterview. Doing an interview on Twitter with a 140 character limit on your response certainly makes you think about how to convey your message in few words. It was exciting to have the questions coming at you live and to have other visitors chime in as well.

Sezoni Whitfield runs the website, Writters Kaboodle and is all about supporting writers. Every Thursday she schedules interviews in one-hour slots. If you would like to be interviewed yourself, visit her website to view her calendar.

Here is a transcript from my interview.

Sezoni Whitfield ‏‪@Sezoni_ 
Follow my Interview with Author ‪@RebekahLyn1 on Twitter! Happening NOW, and use hashtag ‪#WritersKaboodle to join the conversation.

‏Sezoni Whitfield ‪ If you had to make a rule about writing, what would it be? ‪#writerskaboodle

RebekahLyn ‏‪My personal rule is write through the pain. Current WIP is like pulling teeth but I keep pushing on ‪#writerskaboodle

Sezoni Whitfield ‏‪ That’s a good rule. Tell us a little about your book(s) or current project(s). ‪http://www.facebook.com/AuthorRebekahLyn … ‪#WritersKaboodle

RebekahLyn ‏‪ I have 3books out, working on #4. They r Christian fiction,w/romance, a murder, work trials, things we can relate 2 ‪#writerskaboodle

Sezoni Whitfield ‏‪How does a Christian fiction differ from other fiction works? ‪#WritersKaboodle

RebekahLyn ‏‪ For me, Christian fiction still allows the reader 2 escape, but in the end walk away with a message of hope ‪#writerskaboodle

Sezoni Whitfield ‏ Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing? ‪http://www.facebook.com/AuthorRebekahLyn … ‪#writerskaboodle

RebekahLyn ‏I have trouble writing in order. I think of a scene, write it, & find it needs to go later or earlier in the story.‪#writerskaboodle

Sezoni Whitfield‏‪If you had that to do over, what would you do differently? ‪#WritersKaboodle

RebekahLyn ‏‪ If I had Winter’s End to do over? I would print it single sided to make rearranging chapters easier 🙂 ‪#writerskaboodle

RebekahLyn ‏I don’t know if I will ever write an entire book completely linearly. I’m not a very linear thinker. ‪#writerskaboodle

Sezoni Whitfield ‏Excellent! Who designed your cover? And, did you have any input in it? ‪http://www.facebook.com/AuthorRebekahLyn … ‪#WritersKaboodle

RebekahLyn ‏‪ ‪@WrightLaRoche has designed all my covers. She is AMAZING! I had a lot of input & she was very patient with me. ‪#writerskaboodle

Sezoni Whitfield‏‪Is there a message in your book that you want your readers to grasp? ‪http://www.facebook.com/AuthorRebekahLyn … ‪#WritersKaboodle

RebekahLyn ‏ Each book has a different msg. Summer Storms is about dealing with grief & God’s redemptive love…‪#writerskaboodle

RebekahLyn ‏ Julianne is about self-worth & finding that God is all that can really fill the hole in our hearts. ‪#writerskaboodle

RebekahLyn ‏‪ Jesse, my current WIP deals with overcoming bitterness. ‪#writerskaboodle

Sezoni Whitfield ‏ What is your writing style? ‪#writerskaboodle

RebekahLyn ‏Do u mean am I an outliner or a seat of the pants writer? I am seat of the pants, sit down & see what comes out. ‪#writerskaboodle

RebekahLyn ‏I have a general idea of what the basic story is about but that’s about it ‪#writerskaboodle

Sezoni Whitfield ‏How much of the book is based on your true experience? ‪http://www.facebook.com/AuthorRebekahLyn … ‪#WritersKaboodle

RebekahLyn ‏‪ Summer Storms? A few tiny bits of my own experience, raw emotion of grief & some experiences in travel industry. ‪#writerskaboodle

Sezoni Whitfield ‏‪Is writing your career? If so, what things do you do to treat it like your own business? ‪#WritersKaboodle

RebekahLyn ‏ It’s still a side job right now, but I keep detailed tax records. I’m working on new website.. ‪#writerskaboodle

RebekahLyn ‏And I spend most of my vacation time writing ‪#writerskaboodle

Sezoni Whitfield‏‪ Rebekahlyn, thank you very much for your time this evening! That went fast didn’t it? ‪#WritersKaboodle

RebekahLyn ‏ It did go fast! Thanks so much for having me. I hope we can chat again after Jesse is released later this year. ‪#writerskaboodle

Sezoni Whitfield We most definitely will! Please let us know as quickly as possible when Jess is released. Thank you again! ‪#WritersKaboodle

RebekahLyn I will! Have a great nice & a wonderful weekend. ‪#writerskaboodle

As you can see we covered a lot of ground in a short time and I really enjoyed it. You can follow her interviews this week by searching for #writerskaboodle. I recommend this experience and look forward to talking with Sezoni more over the coming months as I prepare to launch my next book.

Related articles

• WritersKaboodle – What is it? (spearman101.wordpress.com)
• The Next Big Thing (oldthingsrnew.wordpress.com)

Sample Saturday- Julianne March 30, 2013

The rippling water flickered like hundreds of camera flashes at a rock concert, causing Julianne to squint as she walked past the marina. She came to a stop in front of a bright yellow door and checked the address on the business card, hesitating. She was nervous about what waited on the other side.

Get a grip, she thought, you are going to have to be brave and confident if you want to impress Cameron. Tucking her hair behind her ears, she raised a hand and knocked.

The door flew open and Peter Raphael’s face lit up as he recognized Julianne. “You came. I am so happy! Come in.”

Julianne stepped into a spacious studio lit by floor to ceiling windows along the north wall. Four easels were evenly spaced in a straight line in front of the windows, all but one covered by old, spattered sheets.

The concrete floor was a work of art itself with splashes of paint around each easel. To her right, Julianne saw paintings leaning against the wall; six columns containing eight to ten canvases each. To her left there was an old refrigerator, a microwave, a small wooden table, and a deep sink.

“You were the only person who took notice of Sunburst last night,” Peter said, a look of sadness flickering in his eyes.

“Maybe they were just overwhelmed by the number of pieces being shown.” Julianne tried to sound reassuring but knew her words were hollow. “You do seem to be quite prolific.” She waved her hand toward the stacks along the wall.

Peter gave a dismissive shrug. “Those are okay, but nothing special. I can paint those in my sleep and yet that seems to be what everyone wants to buy. Can you believe Sabastian sold eight of my paintings last night?”

“That’s amazing. Congratulations.”

Peter shrugged again. “I only sell those so I can work on the ones I truly love.” He took Julianne’s hand and led her to the easels. Before placing her in front of the first, he stopped. “Close your eyes.”

She hesitated, but after studying Peter for several seconds, she consented. She felt him take her by the shoulders and guide her steps, then she heard a swoosh of fabric as the sheet was removed and dropped to the ground.

“Now open,” Peter said and Julianne could hear his excited smile.

She opened her eyes to find a canvas similar to the one at the gallery, but in purples, whites, and blues. At the heart of the swirling colors was a shape of a house like the one she had discerned in Sunburst.

“It’s beautiful,” Julianne whispered. Where Sunburst had made her feel energized, this piece relaxed her, reminding her of the peace she’d felt in the park only a week ago.

“It’s the view through the moon, right?” Julianne turned to find Peter practically shaking with joy.

“I knew you would understand. I call it Moonglow.” He slipped an arm around her shoulder and guided her to the next canvas. This time he didn’t make her close her eyes, but whipped the sheet off with a dramatic flourish.

This canvas was darker, predominantly black and grey with pricks of gold. Julianne studied it, looking for the now familiar house, but not seeing it. Peter stood slightly behind, waiting for her to speak. Julianne could sense him bouncing in anticipation 

and feared disappointing him. She allowed her eyes to lose focus and then she saw it. Two of the pricks of gold were perfect squares, like lights shining through windows. With that realization, she was able to make out the faint outlines of the house in pale grey swirls.

“It’s almost like looking into a black hole and finding its core,” Julianne finally said, turning to face Peter. His expression assured her she hadn’t disappointed.

“Actually, looking from the black hole down on Earth, but you had the general idea. This one is Darkness.” Peter moved her on to the final covered canvas. When he removed the sheet, Julianne gasped.

The scene was completely different, but she understood right away that the house she could barely see in the other paintings was now before her, although obscured by a haze, as if she were flying over it and a thin layer of cloud spread between her and the scene below. But what truly took her breath away was the building itself. It was Garner House.

 Want to read more? Julianne is currently on sale for .99cents for Nook, Kindle, Kobo, Diesel, iBooks, & Sony readers

March Madness March 26, 2013

Welcome to March Madness!

Where You Can Get Discounts, Free Books and More!
March 27th-28th only

For two days only, several best-selling authors have joined together to offer their books for free or 99 cents to avid readers.

Readers can download or order 40+ new books, saving over 50, and enter to win a $25 Amazon gift card to get even more books!

The books are listed below – Fiction first, followed by Non-Fiction, and the Gift Card Giveaway can be found at the bottom of the page:

Fiction:

Free Books

Dear Tiz by Aslaug Grbitz

This story is about two seventeen year old girls who live in two different centuries. They are connected in ways they have yet to discover.

The men in their lives are chivalrous and honorable, not to mention multi-ethnic – the Italian, the Irishman, the American Indian and the Norwegian.

There is true love, adventure, pioneering and a little magic involved. No wait, maybe it is the hand of God.

Free Today On Amazon Kindle:

The Difference Between Night and Day by Melissa Turner Lee

Nathaniel Taylor was a Christian who thought believers were exempted from “dark times.” That was until he entered his own long time in the dark. When he meets Lilly, a young woman in danger, it sends him on a journey to discover the difference between night and day and that during dark times, the Light is hidden, not gone.

Free On Smashwords With Coupon: UA44U

 Prince of Alasia by Annie Douglass Lima

Twelve-year-old Prince Jaymin, heir to the throne of Alasia, barely escapes with his life when invaders from neighboring Malorn attack. Accompanied by Erik, his young bodyguard and friend, Jaymin flees to a nearby town to live in hiding. There, coming face to face with the hardships suffered by the poor, he determines to improve his people’s lives someday when he takes the throne, assuming he can reclaim his kingdom. In his struggle to retain his identity and yet blend in with children in the local school, Jaymin’s life depends on his ability to protect his secret from both enemy troops and unsuspecting townsfolk. Meanwhile, Erik must resort to his skills in unarmed combat to defend Jaymin against everyone from a gang of schoolyard bullies to the Malornians who regularly patrol the streets looking for trouble – and for the missing prince. As the search intensifies and his enemy’s suspicions grow, Jaymin seeks desperately for a way to save his kingdom and himself. Then he stumbles upon a startling discovery that will challenge his assumptions and forever change his view of Malorn and the events that altered his life.

Free Today On Amazon Kindle:

 In The Enemy’s Service by Annie Douglass Lima

When the Malornian army invaded Alasia and Prince Jaymin was forced to flee for his life, what happened to those left behind? In the Enemy’s Service tells the story of ten-year-old Anya, imprisoned among other survivors and forced to work for the occupying troops. While pretending to follow orders and serve diligently in the palace, Anya discovers ingenious ways to spy on enemy officers and slip valuable information to the Alasian resistance.

But as she helps to craft plans that may eventually free Alasia, Anya accidentally uncovers a disturbing reference to her own family. Her fears are strengthened when she is confronted by a mysterious Malornian who seems somehow to know the truth behind the role she has been playing. Holding her life in his hands with that knowledge, he claims to bear information implicating her father in the betrayal that led to the Invasion itself.

Free On Smashwords With Coupon: MX74U

99 Cent Bargain Books

 Times of Trouble by Cliff Ball

Terrorist plot expert.
Bodyguard to the President.
Tested faith and personal troubles–
How will Brian Atwood face the End Times?

Get Your Copy Now For Only $0.99:

 Times of Trial by Cliff Ball

Three Christian families suffer from persecution as the President declares himself dictator, implements something called Order 21, and begins targeting his political and spiritual enemies. Meanwhile, tensions between Israel and Iran intensifies as the End Times approach.

Get Your Copy Now For Only $0.99:

The Book of the Harvest by Brad Francis

For those who chose to follow Jesus Christ in life, heaven is nothing short of paradise. Time has no meaning and all is blissful reward and endless praise and communion with the One whose very presence makes eternity glorious. These believers lack nothing and their eternal lives are made complete by uninhibited access to the King of kings and Lord of lords. Eternity leaves endless time to grow and worship and play and learn and discuss. It is not surprising, then, when a man begins to wonder about the lives he had a chance to touch during his life on earth. He has no idea where his simple question will lead.

Get Your Copy Now For Only $0.99:

A Dodge, A Twist, And A Tobacconist by Sophronia Belle Lyon

This series melds some better and lesser-known characters of classic literary fiction: A literary dream team of crime fighters including nods to Dickens, Stevenson, Alcott, Austen, Kipling, Doyle, and other writers across the pond, with plenty of homages to great books sprinkled throughout. Prowl the foggy London streets on the track of a ruthless enslaver of souls. Travel the Thames in a Giant Catfish. Soar over London in a stealth glider, and witness true redemptions and restorations no one ever imagined.

Get Your Copy Now For Only $0.99:

Nehemiah, LLC by Michael J. Findley

The surface of Mars is swept by violent storms but the Nehemiah Group lives almost idyllically beneath the surface in thousands of acres of “Glop-dropped” parks and sandblasted living quarters. Soothed by the buzzing of bees and chasing the occasional escapees from their small herds of livestock, these people actually research and develop methods to protect the lives and welfare of all the people of the Space Empire. When a plea for help with their specialty comes their lives are turned upside-down. Life support has failed on the balloon ship Sojourner.

Get Your Copy Now For Only $0.99:

Out Of The Wilderness by Anita K. Greene

Former Navy SEAL Grayson Kerr’s honor has eroded working as a soldier for hire. His newfound faith in God has him longing to restore his integrity. His new mission is to qualify for a job with the SeaMount Agency. He wants to be one of the good guys. In the midst of a wilderness survival trial, he discovers a woman and her children lost in the forest. Abandoning his own mission in order to help them could disqualify him for the job.

Get Your Copy Now For Only $0.99:

Purchase from Smashwords

Trapped by Gloria Repp
Book 3 of Tales of Friendship Bog

A boxful of puzzles.
A booby-trapped tunnel.
A baby squirrel gone missing.
—Pibbin needs a team for this one.

Get Your Copy Now For Only $0.99:

The Forever Stone by Gloria Repp

No matter what they think, Madeleine decides to go. She’ll help her aunt restore the old house; she’ll sign up for an online baking course; and she’ll bury–yes, bury–those terrible memories. ”From now on,” she tells herself, “I’m going to be strong and independent.”

Her plan seems to be working, except for the panic attacks, until she has to deflect the attentions of two men.

Get Your Copy Now For Only $0.99:

The Missing Piece by Carol McCormick

After only a few months of marriage, Lorraine left Dylan on a wintry night after he’d spent one too many nights out with the guys. Unable to cope with the loss, Dylan escapes the painful feelings by drinking them away. This decision costs him a year-and-a-half of his life after he stops in a little mountain town and ends up in the local jail. When he’s released, he returns home in search of a job to get his life…and his wife back.

Get Your Copy Now For Only $0.99:

The Earth Painter by Melissa Turner Lee

The Earth Painter is a Young Adult Supernatural Romance set in the small mill town of Chesnee, SC. It revolves around Holly Scruggs, whose family has just moved back to Chesnee after her dad lost his job along with pretty much everything they owned. Her image conscious parents correct her to the point of brokenness until she meets Theo. He is the artist responsible for all the beauty of the land and he thinks Holly is beautiful, too. Together they will fight against Fritz, the water painter, who hates humans and is hiding a secret under the high school.

Get Your Copy Now For Only $0.99:

 Chosen by Barbara Ellen Brink

With tongue firmly in cheek and genuine Amish-made stakes at hand, Jael the vampire slayer is ready to kick some serious bloodsucker butt. Seriously.

Move over Buffy – there’s a new slayer in town! Raised in the desert of Nevada, and destined for the Minnesota Loon Lake Amish Community, Jael Shetler is the Chosen One.

Trained by her uncle and father in twenty-one different forms of hand-to-hand combat – she also throws a knife with the speed of a bullet, and is accurate to within two centimeters of a cold, dead heart with her crossbow – she is a bloodsucker’s worst nightmare.

Her parents, forced to leave their plain and simple upbringing to escape the clutches of the new Bishop – an ancient and powerful vampire with plans to use the Amish Community as his own personal Jamba Juice – raise and train their daughter to continue the fight begun thousands of years earlier by another Jael, and to fulfill the prophecy in the Book of the Shunned.

Get Your Copy Now For Only $0.99:

 Hearts On The Road  by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer

Will Randi find love on the open road? Abandoned, betrayed, and feeling forsaken by God, truck driver Randi Davis crisscrosses Wyoming with a broken heart, vowing never to love another man. Suddenly Matthew Carter, a pastor in search of a mobile ministry, is thrust into her life and into her cab. And there’s nothing she can do about it.  Matthew sees the seedier side of trucking every day, and he feels a pull toward the people there—a definite call to minister to them. But getting this ministry established is proving more difficult than he imagined.  Soon Randi and Matthew find themselves at cross-purposes. His life on the road has just begun. Her eight-year-old niece needs a parent to come home to every day. Will this be the end of the road for Randi and Matthew’s romance?

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 That Hoosier’s Cap by Dave King

Stan Leidel has vanished from Beatty … again … leaving his two sons, Tim and Mark, to once again fend for themselves. But this time, there just has to be a good ending to the story!

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 Julianne  by Rebekah Lyn

Julianne is a story about a young woman’s struggle to find inner peace and spirituality. Julianne Finnegan has experienced relationship issues, career confusion, and is overshadowed by a successful sibling. Dissatisfaction is evident in every facet of her life. She meets Oliver, a handsome young actor who struggles with demons of his own. Through her encounter with Oliver, Julianne begins to learn about faith in herself and in others, although she is faced with some difficult choices when a former love appears. Julianne is an exploration of the guidance we may seek in establishing relationships with others and a higher power.

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 Joe The Dreamer by A.B. Brownell

When Joe’s parents disappear, he becomes the target of the radical militant group that enslaves them and his fate could be worse than death.

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 Deep In The Heart by Staci Stallings

Just out of college and completely alone in the world, Maggie Montgomery has one shot left to save her life from an abyss of poverty and hopelessness. Clinging to the last shred of fuel and hope, she arrives at the mansion of Texas billionaire Conrad Ayers. Although Maggie is clearly not what Mr. Ayers and his wife have in mind for a nanny, they agree to hire her temporarily until they can find someone more appropriate to fill the position. However, Maggie’s whole world is about to be up-ended by two way-over-scheduled children and one incredibly handsome hired hand. As she struggles to fit into a world she was never made to fit in, Maggie wonders if she can ever learn to become a perfect version of herself so she can keep the job, or is she doomed to always be searching for a life she can never quite grasp?

Keith Ayers despises his life. As the son of Texas billionaire Conrad Ayers and the fiance to a Senator from Texas’ daughter, it looks great on the outside, but inside, he is dying. He would vastly prefer to manage and train his father’s racehorses. However, everyone else thinks that is beneath him. He needs to get into industry and build on his father’s success. Suffocating under the constrictions of his life, he meets Maggie who begins to teach him that wealth and power is not everything in this life. But can Keith defy the most powerful men in Texas to follow his heart?

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 To Protect & Serve by Staci Stallings

Houston firefighter, Jeff Taylor is a fireman’s fireman. He’s not afraid of anything, and no situation is too dangerous to keep him on the sideline if lives are at stake.Lisa Matheson runs a semi-successful ad agency that’s on the brink of falling apart. Her employees are incompetent and her schedule has become exhausting. When she takes on a client with a brilliant idea for a big conference, she thinks that maybe, finally this is her lucky break. However, the fire station wasn’t what she had in mind for finding conference speakers. When she falls for a handsome but shy firefighter, it’s possible that life might just be going her way for a change. The only problem is she can’t control Jeff and the death wish he seems to have…

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 The Captives by Precarious Yates

Three lives weave together inextricably.

Qoshonni: the warrior.
Shunda: the orphan.
Mookori: the prince.

They fight against the MerKing and rescue the captives.

Can they trust themselves in their fight against this mutual enemy? Can they trust one another?

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 Pyromarne by Precarious Yates

The MerKing has access to the magical metal, pyromarne, and the world of Aiqua Marrin is falling apart according to his designs. All his pieces are set in place. But he doesn’t anticipate the resolve of men, the dedication of the Ulys or the purity of the aquavians. Is there enough time to defeat the MerKing before the end that was foretold comes to pass?

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 March Madness Revisited by Teirrah McNair

At first glance, Tiny, a young Silicon Valley worker, mightn’t have passed for much more than a pretty yuppie, up and about her sprightly life. When Tiny however meets an unexpected turn in her life, losing her job, without anyone to turn to for help, a desperate casting of doom spells over her.

She is left to fend with absolutely no money, no one to care or her, no rent money and not even gas money that can get her to her next job interview. Alone in a world that so suddenly turns perilous when one is without financial support, Tiny treads through her life with extreme caution, despair and just by blindly clutching on to hope, hope that will eventually redeem her, in a tale of twists, surprises and events that can only be described as put in place by destiny.

March Madness is about triumph of the human spirit. It shows how even people who seem like ordinary people can reach deep into themselves, to pull up amazing bouts of tenacity, fight, resolve and dogged determination, to overcome obstacles that just seem to keep tumbling down when they down on their luck.

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 Read Me Dead by Emerald Barnes

Alexia Wheaton’s problems go far beyond picking a dress and a date for the homecoming dance.

For seven years, Alex has lived with a painful memory – the memory of her parents’ horrific murder. As the sole witness, she has kept quiet about the identity of the murderer to protect herself and her family and friends, but when a journalist over hears her secret and writes about it in the local newspaper, Alex is plagued with fear that her parents’ murderer will soon find her – and silence her forever.

Alex is catapulted into a race against time to save her own life and bring her parents’ murderer to justice. She will face many secrets, lies, and betrayals before the truth about their murder is revealed.

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Non-Fiction:

Free Books

 Living a Life of Faith: 21 Days of Faith Challenge by Shelley Hitz

Do you want to live a life of faith?

Do you want your faith to be more than simply saying “I believe in God”?

Do you want to have a genuine faith that overflows from a heart that is fully trusting in God in every area of your life?

If so, consider embarking on this 21 Days of Faith Challenge through this short but powerful eBook.

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 Desires of My Heart by Heather Bixler

The TRUTH is……You don’t have to be perfect to delight in the Lord. You don’t have to have it all together, or have the perfectly balanced life. For so long I thought before I could move forward in certain areas of my life I needed to at least have a perfectly balanced life.

But now I realize that isn’t so. God will bless your efforts, and He will honor your humility. So when you feel like delighting in Him requires action from you to improve or be better at being a Christian, know this, God is strong where ever you are weak, and your actions for the Lord will not go in vain.

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 Purposeful Planning by Phyllis Sather

Does having your spouse’s undivided attention appeal to you? Planning weekends give you time to dream, to talk together about what you wish, or want, at a time when the other person is really listening.

Do you need a plan to keep your family moving in the direction the Lord is leading you? Perhaps you don’t know where the Lord is leading you. Phyllis takes you step-by-step through the process of planning a time together for your family to help determine the path the Lord is choosing for each area of your life. Her family has followed this format for over 12 years and has found that it provides the compass they’ve needed to plan and stay on course.

This time-tested method of planning will give your family new direction for the future. Start today! Choose the dates for your planning weekend, read her book which has the entire “how to” included, and go for it!

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 21 Teen Devotionals… For Girls!  by Heather Hart and Shelley Hitz

Our lives are ruled by habits. We are defined by them. How our days play out, how we act and react, and even how we eat, sleep and talk are all affected by our habits – for better or for worse.

It’s said that it takes 21 days to form a new habit or break an old one, so why not spend the next 21 days forming a habit of spending time with God? If you’ve got 21 days, we’ve got 21 devotions specifically written for today’s teen girls.

Are you up for forming a habit of spending time with your Creator?  If so, download this book and get started on these devotionals!

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99 Cent Bargain Books

Fuel For The Soul: 21 Devotionals That Nourish by CJ Hitz

It’s been said that it takes 21 days to form a habit. I don’t know about you but it sure seems difficult to break the bad habits and keep the good ones going. You may have several good habits you’ve formed in your life that have become second nature to you.

For me, running has become one such habit. What started out as a legitimate way to lose some extra pounds and help speed up my metabolism eventually turned into my favorite sport and primary outlet for competition. The daily run is something I look forward to as it leaves me feeling energized and full of life.

If you’re not a runner, you might not be familiar with something called an energy gel. These are little 100 calorie packets of mainly carbohydrates. Brand names include GU, Clif Shot, Hammer, and Stinger to name a few. They are a simple, easy-to-digest form of fuel. I’ve had several instances where I felt low on energy while out on a training run or in a race but then felt an energy surge after consuming one of these little guys. It’s amazing what a difference just 100 calories can make.

It’s my hope that these 21 days of devotions will serve as an “energy gel” or fuel for your soul. They’re meant to be quick yet powerful and thought-provoking no matter what time of day you prefer to read (eat) them.

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 Starting Off On The Right Foot: A Beginner’s Guide To Running Well by CJ Hitz

No matter the sport, everyone has to start somewhere. The simple sport of running is no different. Running came natural to us as kids but for various reasons, many of us gave it up at some point.

In Starting Off on the Right Foot, best-selling author CJ Hitz (Smoothies For Runners) shares some of the valuable information he’s learned along the way since picking up running again in 2008. After running in the 1989 State Cross Country meet in Eugene, Oregon as a high school
sophomore, CJ gave up running for nearly 20 years before being drawn back into the sport.

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 Another Second Chance by Troy Lewis

This is a very powerful book about the author’s experience in facing the ups and downs of kidney disease–After playing Jesus Christ in a local passion drama for 9 years, his world is turned upside down; As he states in the first chapter, “this would cause me to question who I was, all that I had believed, and God himself.” We live through Troy’s journey and the emotional and spiritual roller coaster with him, but always we sense God in control of the situation-even when all seems hopeless.

You will find yourself eagerly reading, in suspense, wanting to find out what happens next and how God will work. The author merely talks to us as if to friends, sharing something wonderful and awesome that happened to him; How at death’s door step, he found God’s Hope, Peace, and the reason for it all.

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 A Mom’s Battle Cry for Rest  Battle Cry Devotional Series by Laura Marshall

Tired? Stressed out? Overwhelmed?

In this little book, set in an easy seven day format, join one Christian mom on her journey to enter into the rest that refreshes and find freedom from weariness.

This is a Battle Cry for Rest.

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Body Image Lies Women Believe by Shelley Hitz

Are you insecure about your looks? Have you ever compared yourself to someone else and found yourself wanting? Do complements or put downs determine the image you have of your beauty?

Throughout this book, Christian women share their stories of how they have struggled with body image lies and a distorted view of themselves. However, each of their stories also contains hope – the hope of replacing these lies with God’s truth. Our prayer for you is that you find encouragement within these pages and allow Christ to transform you with His truth.
God has created each one of us with unique abilities, unique talents and a unique personality. As women we are influencers and God has given us that role and our beauty to share with others. Yet so often we settle for a counterfeit. The enemy has counterfeited our idea of beauty, convincing us to share our beauty with the world in a distorted way. Today that often means that we see our beauty as what we look like on the outside.

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 My Treasure  by Heather Bixler

There are plenty of Christian resources out there telling us how to manage our money. From budgeting, to couponing, to saving, to investing, (there are numerous) books, courses, and blogs available for all Christians to learn how to steward their money to better honor and glorify the Lord.

I think these resources are amazing and have often used them in my own life in order to become debt free and learn how to better manage my family’s finances. But one burning question always entered into my mind as I began to budget, coupon, and bring down my debt – what’s the point? my heart still struggled daily with greed and fear when it came to money.

In this four week mini Bible Study, we are not going to examine how to manage our money. Instead we are going to examine our heart towards money. One thing I have learned when it comes to money is this, it’s really not about HOW much money you have that will determine whether you are broke or rich, it’s WHERE your heart is towards God and towards money.

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 Thoughts On Being Left Behind by Phyllis Sather

At one time or another we all feel left behind – whether because of illness, loss of a loved one, or the busyness of parenting and/or homeschooling. These timeless pieces, written by someone who went from the life of an active and involved woman to a near invalid within just a few weeks, speak to the heart of anyone who feels like they’ve been put on the shelf and possibly forgotten.

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 Swallowed By Life by Ada Brownell

In Genesis immediately after Adam and Eve sinned and knew they would die, God promised a Redeemer. Jesus was that Redeemer and He came to do something about death–and He did.

Does the book prove what we read in the Bible? Read it and find out.

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 FaithLeaps by Alyssa Avant

Do you believe God has placed a purpose and plan in your heart for business?Do you need help channeling your passion into profits?

Are you scared to death to pursue the plans you believe God has placed in your heart for business?

This Book is for You If You’ve Ever Considered Taking . . . A Leap of Faith

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 The Book of Esther: A Story Of Love And Favor  by Deborah H. Bateman

The Book of Esther: A Story of Love and Favor is a Daily-Bible-Reading study of the book of Esther. In the book of Esther, Esther was adopted by her cousin Mordecai. In a series of events and through fasting, prayer and God’s favor Esther was placed in a position to save the Jewish people. Esther’s cousin Mordecai told her maybe she was born for such a time as this. God puts us all in circumstances where He can use us to further His kingdom and give Him glory, if we are willing and obedient. Esther found her identity in Christ and her purpose for life. Like Esther you were born for such a time as this. You too can find your identity in Christ.

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Psalm 119: Thy Word is a Lamp unto My Feet by Deborah H. Bateman

Psalm 119: Thy Word is a Lamp unto My Feet is a Daily-Bible-Reading Study by Deborah H. Bateman. Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible and is located in the center of the Bible. It is about the importance of God’s Word, the Bible in your life. It is broken up into twenty-two stanzas of eight verses each so Deborah created twenty-two short lessons which can be used for personal daily devotions or weekly group Bible studies. Each stanza starts with a letter from the Hebrew alphabet so you will also learn about one letter of the Hebrew alphabet with each lesson. Deborah includes a prayer and a few questions at the end of each lesson for personal reflection or group discussion.

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 Proverbs of the New Testament by Lara Velez

A Relevant Study of the Book of James. Unlock the Secrets to Living a Victorious Christian Life… the Way God Intended

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Holiness Revealed by Lara Velez

But just as He Who called you is holy, so be holy in all your conduct and manner of living; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.” – 1 Peter 1:15-16The word “holy” seems to be completely insane and utterly unattainable at first glance. It can also make many cringe at the mere mention of it. In today’s culture, the words: “holiness” and “holy” sound like something out of the dark ages–or at the very least, words spoken by some overzealous religious lunatic.

Thankfully, being holy is not crazy, “old fashioned thinking” or unattainable! It is what we are called to, and if God calls us to it, then He will make a way for us to walk in it!

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 The Way of Salvation by Teirrah McNair

Comfort food for new Christians, The Way breaks down salvation basics into easily digestible bites. 5000 words. A great quick read for individual and group study.

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 Financial Empowerment Realign Your Finances To God’s Will by Pamela Carmichael

Are you in a constant financial struggle and juggle where there never seems to be enough? Do you wonder if God is able to or even willing to provide for you? Are you constantly paying bills and covering debt payments without seeing much progress? Are you faithful in tithing and giving but yet you cannot see on outpoured blessing?

Then this book is here for you. Financial Empowerment discusses the problems we face in different areas of our finances and shows how to manage money in a God-pleasing manner. In a simple easy-to-read manner, it provides biblical and practical solutions to personal financial management.

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 God’s Promises in 8 Key Life Areas That Will Change Your Life Forever by Krystal Kuehn and Violet James

God’s Promises in 8 Keys Life Areas That Will Change Your Life Forever helps you to know and understand who you are and what you have as a child of God. With personalized confessions of Scripture applied to 8 key life areas, you will easily be able to receive God’s promises and live life to the fullest. You will be empowered and changed from the inside out as you walk in the truth of God’s promises in your relationship with Him and others, in your life purpose, in your thought life and more.

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 Think Like A Winner by Krystal Kuehn and Violet James

One of the greatest challenges we face in our Christian walk is the renewal of our minds and the application of Biblical truth and principles to our lives. This is an ongoing process, and it is the key to our victory and fulfillment. Think Like a Winner – How Renewing Your Mind with God’s Word Empowers You to Win in Life will inspire and motivate you to live the fulfilling life Jesus died to give you. You will gain a deeper understanding of the power and importance of renewing your mind. You will be given examples and exercises on how to apply and practice Biblical truth and principles.

This book is a perfect companion to In Christ, I am… and God’s Promises on Who You Are in Christ that Will Transform You from the Inside Out. You can win every battle and have victory in your mind, relationships, family, work, health …. because you are born to be a winner!

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Love is in the Air February 14, 2013

From the Wedding Gurus
http://theweddinggurus.blogspot.com/2012/04/wedding-theme-inspiration.html

An excerpt from Winter’s End

When they reached a small alley with white lights crisscrossing overhead, Lizzie followed as Ian turned and they walked toward a small courtyard. Snow crunched under their feet, not having been cleared after yesterday’s shower. The narrow walls of the alley made it impossible to see anything in the courtyard other than a fountain, now silent, with icicles hanging from the three levels. When they emerged into the courtyard, Lizzie was surprised to find an elegant bistro at the far end. Topiaries stood on either side of the large plate glass window in the shape of hearts, with red silk roses woven into the greenery. Bistro Amore was written in black letters across the front door.

“I hope you’re hungry,” Ian said, stopping in front of the bistro.

“Famished actually,” Lizzie replied, stepping through the door he held open for her. Inside, the restaurant was dimly lit with hundreds of white, votive candles in small glass vases scattered on the tables and tall pillar candles perched in sconces along the walls, but only one table, in the center of the room, was set, ready for service.

“It doesn’t look like they are open yet,” Lizzie whispered, turning back to Ian.

“I don’t know, maybe you should ask the hostess.” Ian pointed.

Lizzie turned back around to find a young woman with long black hair, wearing a red velvet skirt that flowed to her ankles coupled with a white blouse standing before her, holding two menus.

“Good evening, Ms. Reynolds, Mr. Cavanaugh. Your table is ready for you.” The hostess led them to the center table and pulled the chair out for Lizzie, waiting until Ian was seated to hand out the menus. When she did, Lizzie gasped.

The front of the menu had Lizzie and Ian’s names on it, with the date, and a photo from their first date at the Samba Room.

“Happy Valentine’s Day, Lizzie,” Ian said.

“But Valentine’s Day isn’t until Monday.” Lizzie gave him a confused look.

Ian reached across the table and took her hand. “I know you aren’t the biggest fan of this Hallmark holiday, but I wanted to do something special for you. I thought maybe if it wasn’t on the actual day, you wouldn’t think it was just part of the commercialism.”

Lizzie felt walls built up over years of disappointment crumble in her heart. She wrapped his hand in both of hers and gazed into his eyes, hoping he understood how much his words meant to her.

“Do you want to look at the menu?” Ian asked

“I don’t know if I can take my eyes off you,” Lizzie whispered.

“Maybe I should read it to you then. There aren’t many choices, though. To start, a butternut squash soup, followed by a Caesar salad, then maple glazed salmon, mashed potatoes, and asparagus, and for dessert, well, I’ll let that be a surprise.”

“My favorites,” Lizzie said, her heart racing.

“I’m happy to hear that,” Ian replied with a laugh.

“How did you do this?” Lizzie asked.

“I just made a reservation,” Ian replied innocently. ”Isn’t that something you do all day at work?”

Lizzie looked around the restaurant and laughed. “Hardly. I don’t think I have enough pull to get an entire restaurant for one guest.”

“I guess you just don’t know all the right people then.”

“Come on, you have to tell me.”

“I went to school with the owner, and I have to be honest, they will open to everyone else at eight. He agreed to open early for me as a favor.”

“Very impressive favor.”

“A high compliment coming from the queen of making the impossible happen,” Ian replied.

A waiter approached with a tray containing their soup and a bottle of wine. Lizzie leaned over the bowl of soup and breathed in the warm aroma, feeling any lingering chill in her bones fade away. The server poured a taste of wine into Ian’s glass. He swirled it around, gave it a good smell, swished a bit in his mouth, and gave his approval. When their glasses were filled, the waiter retreated. Ian raised his glass.

“A toast. To the first of many Valentine’s Days together.” They clinked their glasses and took a sip of the chilled Riesling.

Lizzie slurped at the hot soup, her taste buds going wild as the liquid slid over them. She closed her eyes, allowing her sense of taste to take over as she picked out the flavors of saffron, nutmeg, and cinnamon. 

“You can never repeat this, but this soup is so good, I may have to suggest Chef Gustave visit your friend for some pointers.” Lizzie opened her eyes to find Ian watching her with pleasure.

“I’m glad you like it,” Ian said, dipping his own spoon into the creamy yellow soup.

The salad and then the main course were served, each bite seemingly better than the last. Lizzie cleaned each of her plates and sat back with a sigh of contentment as the waiter removed the empty dishes.

“I know you said there was dessert, but I don’t think I could eat another bite,” Lizzie said and dabbed at the corners of her mouth with her napkin.

A look of disappointment clouded Ian’s face and Lizzie regretted her words.

“But, I could probably share with you,” she quickly added.

“I understand if you are too full. We can always have something later. The night is still young.” Ian pushed his chair back. “Wait here a minute.” He turned toward the kitchen and slipped through the door.

Lizzie rubbed her stomach as if that would speed along her digestion, and glanced around the restaurant. She could see twenty other tables, each covered in a black cloth. She could hear more voices from the kitchen as they prepared to open to the rest of their patrons. Without warning, the hostess appeared at Lizzie’s side.

“How was everything?” the hostess asked.

“It was perfect. Please send my compliments to the chef. I can’t remember a better meal.” Lizzie smiled and extended her hand. “Thank you all for making this such a memorable evening.”

“It has been our pleasure. Ian has been such a good friend to my husband. When he called us, we were happy to help him.”

“You and your husband are the owners?” Lizzie jumped up from her chair and pulled the woman into a hug that nearly knocked them both over. “This truly has been the best night of my life.”

The woman’s eyes sparkled. “Ian is always full of surprises.” With that, she faded into the darkness.

Lizzie sat down again and pulled her phone from her purse. As she was typing a text message to Emma, Ian returned and pulled her to her feet, wrapping her in his arms and holding her close to his chest. She rested her ear over his heart and listened to the steady thump.

“Where to next?” she murmured.

“That would ruin the surprise wouldn’t it? Let’s just see where our feet take us.” Ian led her out of the restaurant back to Main Street.

To read more buy your copy for only .99 cents through February 16 Kindle  Nook Kobo Diesel Sony iBooks

Book Blast By the Numbers February 13, 2013

The cover for Winter’s End compliments of Laura Wright LaRoache at LLPix.

February 3, as America sat down to watch the Super Bowl, I was anxiously watching my Twitter feed, Facebook account, and Bing searches as I monitored the progress of a book blast for my newest novel Winter’s End.

Crossreads is a new website, recently founded by some lovely ladies that I had previously met through Body & Soul Publishing. One of the services they offer is a book blast to help get more exposure for your books. I was quick to jump on this opportunity, especially since they were offering it at reduced price for a limited time. When the date rolled around I found a comfy spot on the couch and started surfing the net looking for the blogs that were participating in the blast. I was excited to find 15, but I have learned that there were actually 25. These bloggers promote your book for one week and visitors to their sites have the chance to enter to win an Amazon gift card. For this promotion the gift card was $25, but anyone who purchases the full price package will be giving away a $50 gift card.

I was overwhelmed by the number of tweets and new followers I saw rolling in through the day. Since this was the first book blast for Crossreads there were some learning curves for both of us, but overall, I’m very happy with the experience. While I don’t have final, official numbers yet, I wanted to share with you a general idea of the exposure and growth I saw, in case you are thinking about participating in a book blast yourself.

Page views on the main Crossreads site- 2,193
Number of blogs participating- 25
Number of contest entries- 8,159
Number of times blogs were shared on Facebook- 84
Number of times blogs were shared on Twitter- 418
New followers on Facebook gained- 150
New followers on Twitter gained- 205

I wasn’t able to gather shares on Facebook & Twitter from several of the blogs, but I do know that I kept seeing at least 20 mentions of the contest in my Twitter connections every day. There were also tweets that didn’t include my Twitter handle that I found using the search option & keywords book blast.

I wish I had kept a notebook next to me to log the exact number of tweets I found, but I will be better prepared in the future. To keep the momentum going and in honor of the Valentines weekend setting of Winter’s End, I am running Sweetheart $.99 sale. Get your copy February 13-16 on Kindle, Nook, or Smashwords for all your reading needs.

But that’s not all. This week is the official launch of the Crossreads website and there are giving away all kinds of great treats, including a copy of my book, Julianne.

“Encourage each other daily”

Introducing

a new place to meet, read, and fellowship…
Find books that uplift, authors that inspire, and a whole community of
fellow Christians who are looking to encourage and be encouraged.
Join the Community today, and
be entered to win one of 169 prizes!

Click here to ENTER the CrossReads Giveaway