Review of Dark Days of Promise by Stephenia H. McGee

Author Shaunna Gonzales dives into some very deep and often neglected topics in her contemporary military family novel, Dark Days of Promise. Having come from a military family myself, and seeing the effects of PTSD, I felt the author handled the issues with both respect and realism.


When Vicki finds out her ex-husband has been killed in action in the Middle East, she struggles with raising three children, especially two boys, on her own. Without even the occasional visits of a father, she fears they will not know how to become men. She never expects her best friend's son to have served with her ex-husband, and certainly never expected to be drawn to such a dangerous man. Her children adore him, but Vicki knows he has a dark side. Kelly can be fun and caring, but he also has killer instincts he can't always control.

I enjoyed this story for its depth and genuine feel. The romance is warm, with a few stirrings of heat, but the relationship progresses nicely. Despite a few slow sections, I give it four stars for being a great read and an excellent story of the honor and sacrifice of our military.

GRACE FILLED BOOK BLITZ - Day Twelve

GRACE FILLED 12-DAYS OF CHRISTMAS BOOK BLITZ


Dark Days of Promise Excerpt

"Look at me, Vicki."

I avoided his eyes.

"Damn it, Vicki, look at me!" His voice begged for my full attention. When I didn't look at him, he stood, placing me in the chair. He squatted down in front of me on his good leg. I met his gaze for the first time since he'd started talking. His eyes pierced me, imploring me to understand what he found impossible to explain. He began again.

"I can't do this by myself. I know I don't deserve it, but I'm asking you to help me. I'm asking you to consider being my anchor in the sanity of civilian life. Marshall asked me to take care of his family should anything happen to him. I believe he meant you, as well as the kids. I don't know how to do that without being a soldier. Soldiering is all I know. Do you realize I walk the perimeter of both our houses every night?"

I gasped in surprise.

"Sometimes twice if I'm not sure everything's right. I even carry a weapon when I feel you might be in danger. The boys have made a lot of tracks in the snow, which is why you haven't noticed. It's okay; I'm not a 'Peeping Tom.' I don't peer in your windows or invade your privacy. You should close the blinds though. You're beautiful, even in your old pajamas."

"You can't see in my windows, can you?" I choked.

"Not if I'm not looking," he hedged.

"I can't believe--"

http://www.amazon.com/Dark-Days-of-Promise-ebook/dp/B009EHRB7K/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1356558654&sr=1-1&keywords=Shaunna+gonzales

GRACE FILLED BOOK BLITZ - Day Ten

GRACE FILLED 12-DAYS OF CHRISTMAS BOOK BLITZ


Dark Days of Promise Excerpt


The walk down the drive should've relaxed me. Instead my mind compared the men in my life. Farley...Kelly...Farley...Kelly.

I reached home and tried filling my mind with other things but my subconscious envisioned the photo from Marshall's effects. The photo brought a wry smile to my lips.

Farley seemed so different from Kelly and Marshall. He reminded me of the smooth con man, his gentle nature well practiced, if not always sincere. Maybe he is a con man. Or is he what I need?

I considered the two men smiling from the hot desert sands at me. Farley would never survive under such conditions. Both Kelly and Marshall carried weapons, yet I couldn't imagine Marshall being dangerous while Kelly proved himself very dangerous. Both wore their army fatigues, complete with berets.

I reflected on Janine's evaluation: a woman would find life without a companion, in particular one as young as my thirty-four years, rather difficult. A woman, just like a man, had needs, not just physical needs, but those of companionship and emotional support. It seemed unwise for me to remain alone. Which man, if either, would prove the better choice?

The doorbell rang, bringing my evaluation to an inconclusive end. Farley, by just showing up, took center stage.

http://www.amazon.com/Dark-Days-of-Promise-ebook/dp/B009EHRB7K/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1356558654&sr=1-1&keywords=Shaunna+gonzales

GRACED FILLED BOOK BLITZ - Day Eight

Dark Days of Promise Excerpt

My mind grasped at an idea. Maybe I didn't need to tell them. "Janine, do you think they need to know?"

"Wouldn't you want to know if your father was killed?"

"They're so young," I argued.

"Young, yes. Entitled to the truth? Yes, I believe they are that too."

I clung to her, begging her with my hazel impersonation of puppy dog eyes. "Would you tell them?"

"Yes." She caressed my hand, the soft fragrance of her hand soap wafted to me.

I smiled, believing I wouldn't have to bear the burden alone.

"If they were my children I would definitely tell them. They are your children. You know them better than I do and although I love them, I can't guess how each of them will react to the news."

She dashed my hopes with her firm and loving words. "I don't know how. I can't do this alone."

"You won't have to. I'll be here." She patted my knee. "Your Heavenly Father is always close by. Maybe you should ask Him for help."

"You think God will come break the news to them?"

"You know He doesn't work that way. Have a little faith, my dear. Marshall would want you to do this."

I fell silent, remembering...   http://www.amazon.com/Dark-Days-of-Promise-ebook/dp/B009EHRB7K/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1356558654&sr=1-1&keywords=Shaunna+gonzales

GRACE FILLED BOOK BLITZ - Day Seven

GRACE FILLED 12-DAYS OF CHRISTMAS BOOK BLITZ

Dark Days of Promise Excerpt

"Janine, you know you're never intruding." I lowered my voice so no one but Kelly would hear the distinct teasing quality in my voice. "Now Kelly on the other hand..." My unfinished sentence caught his attention. His expression reflected an acceptance of my teasing jab. What am I doing? I closed my eyes allowing brief seconds to pass while I considered my actions.


Kelly moved toward the kitchen while I watched Phillip load the DVD.

"Grandma, why are you so 'winkled'? Did you stay in the bath too long?" Krista asked, while I walked to my kitchen. I cringed at Krista's question and took a step closer to the tender exchange, turning my head to watch. The movie played several previews only the boys watched.

"No sweetie, these 'winkles' aren't from staying in the water too long. They're character lines." Janine's tone reflected the smile I felt sure graced her features.

Kelly joined me, peering over my shoulder at the pair as Krista touched Janine's face. I got the distinct impression Krista thought Janine's face might crumble if she touched it with too much pressure.

"Mommy doesn't have any 'winkles.' Do they hurt?"

"No, sweetie," Janine laughed. "They don't hurt, but the white hairs Kelly has given me over the years...they hurt."

Kelly stepped closer to his mother as if to intervene, positioning me against the back of the couch.

My emotions clashed, remembering how I'd taken flight from this very spot at his hands.

http://www.amazon.com/Dark-Days-of-Promise-ebook/dp/B009EHRB7K/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1356558654&sr=1-1&keywords=Shaunna+gonzales

GRACE FILLED BOOK BLITZ - Day Five

GRACE FILLED 12-DAYS OF CHRISTMAS BOOK BLITZ


Dark Days of Promise Excerpt

Snow from Kelly's walk down the long drive left an adequate amount of moisture on his shoes. I turned around to watch him stomp his feet across the carpet before squeaking his new athletic shoes on the linoleum, the poinsettia still in his hands.


Amused, I smiled at his efforts. "If you were one of my boys I'd tell you to learn how to walk like a gentleman, without all the noise. Knowing how quiet you are when you want to be, I shan't say a word."

"You already said a few words," Kelly teased.

"True. How about continuing a conversation instead of your 'stomp, shuffle-squeak'?"

"I've never been good at conversations with females, soldiers or not, at least not the sociable kind." The house grew silent for several minutes. I considered his comment against his complete revelations the preceding week. I waited for him to make an effort at more conversation.

"Do you carry a rag with you whenever you're at home?" he ventured after several minutes of silence.

"Now that wasn't so bad. You even managed to tease me at the same time. No, I don't carry my dust cloth all the time, just when I'm moving the dust around in the house." I waved the yet unused dust cloth several inches away from his nose while quoting Shakespeare. "Out spot, out!"

http://www.amazon.com/Dark-Days-of-Promise-ebook/dp/B009EHRB7K/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1356558654&sr=1-1&keywords=Shaunna+gonzales

GRACE FILLED 12-DAYS OF CHRISTMAS BOOK BLITZ

December 26th

Dark Days of Promise Excerpt

The last thread of thought spurned me to action. My muscles trembled as I placed my hands on the couch, pushing myself to a sitting position. I half expected him to attack me again.


When he didn't touch me, I scooted into my corner of the couch.

"You were out for a couple minutes. I'm..." He swallowed, feigned a cough, and forced a hint of a smile before piercing me with his gaze. "You're sure you're okay?"

I gave a quick nod, no more.

"If you're sure."

I wasn't sure of anything except this wasn't a dream, and I was alive.

He stood and walked toward the front door with his slight limp. There he stopped, "I shouldn't have come here...I don't know why I did that. I'm sorry...I'll let myself out."

The door closed without a sound on his retreating form, shutting out the cold. Shutting out the danger. Shutting me inside the imagined safety of my home. A shiver traced its way up my back, confirming each nerve remained intact. My fingers braved the vast expanse from the couch to my throat. Shaking, they retreated to my lap. I slumped into the empty warmth of the couch as hot tears of relief stung my checks.

French Christmas and cats

Thank you, Shaunna, for having me on your blog to kick off the holiday season. It’s my favorite time of the year. You can find out more about me and my books on my website at: http://www.vijayaschartz.com You can find my paperbacks and eBooks on AMAZON – B&N – ARe – and all the major retailers, including the Apple Store.

I was born and raised in France, where the holidays are even bigger than in the US (at least the way I remember them). The traditions are different, and so is the food. The French do not celebrate Thanksgiving, so they have turkey for Christmas, and they stuff it with chestnuts (boiled then sautéed in butter with caramelized onions). The first time I tasted sweet potatoes (that was in India and the French still don’t know what they taste like), I thought they were chunks of chestnuts. The taste is very similar.

Raw oysters and seafood are also a big part of the French holiday menu. And the traditional dessert is the Christmas log, which my mother used to make herself with chocolate or coffee butter cream. Yum. Lots of calories.

I remember with fondness the holidays of my late teens and early twenties, no school, parties every night from Christmas Eve to the New Year. Of course it helped that my birthday fell right between the two holidays.

We did not take down the tree or the nativity scene until January 6, the twelfth day of Christmas, when we celebrated the arrival of the wise men, the Magi, that we called kings. There is even a special “galette des rois” stuffed with almond paste for that particular day. Whoever finds the hard bean (or ceramic bit) hidden in the galette becomes king or queen for a day. And he/she chooses a consort by dropping the hard bean into the chosen’s glass while they aren’t looking. The king and queen wear golden paper crowns (provided by the bakery with the galette). And not just the children wear the crown all day. Adults join in the fun, too.

And all that time, I wished I had a cat. I had an uncanny obsession with cats, and several times brought strays home on my way from school. Unfortunately, my father wouldn’t hear of keeping animals. In his view, animals belonged in a farm, not in an apartment, period.

Now that I do have cats, however, and since I’m a writer, I include cats in my novels. As you can tell from my covers, cats, big and small, take an important part in most of my stories. My new release coming out today in paperback (the eBook has been out for a while) is RED LEOPARD, Book Two in the Chronicles of Kassouk series. The feline in this story, Rascal, won an award for the best animal character in a book for 2010.

Book One, White Tiger is already in paperback, the other books in the series, already in eBook format, will follow in paperback in 2013, with the prequel coming last. Book Three, Black Jaguar, is scheduled for February 1st.

THE CHRONICLES OF KASSOUK:

In this futuristic series, set on an alien planet where a human spaceship crashed centuries ago, a small human community, having lost its technology, struggles to survive, battling the domination of a more advanced galactic race. Each book is a separate love story, as well as an action adventure, so you do not need to read the books in the right order, but if you are like me, you’ll want to start at the beginning.

RED LEOPARD
Chronicles of Kassouk Book Two
by Vijaya Schartz
From Desert Breeze Publishing
In paperback Dec. 1st at Amazon and Barnes & Noble

In charge of the fortress of Kassouk in the King's absence, what is Terek to do when a Goddian spacecraft lands in his medieval backyard, and the striking woman leading the galactic party insists on colonization?

Galya, the Goddian Princess commanding the geological vessel, is bent on finding a crystal with unusual hyper conductor properties. And the futile resistance of the local population isn’t going to stop her. Not even that defiant tribal chief nicknamed Red Leopard, like the infernal feline that follows him everywhere.

Terek and his band of swordsmen and felines must defend their people’s freedom, no matter the cost. But with this unexpected arrival, an old prophecy surfaces, taking new meaning and carrying a new threat... When political intrigues, greed, murder and betrayal tip the scales, who can Galya really trust? Her fellow Goddians? the Mutants bred to serve her race? or her primitive Human enemy?

"...action packed, fast paced story... I can't wait to read the next book in the
Chronicles of Kassouk series." 5 angels - Fallen Angel Reviews

"This book was so good. I was completely lost in the world Vijaya created and loving every second of it." - 5 stars - Goodreads.com

“Packed with action and adventure. Galya ... a tough warrior... a sweetness about her that makes her easy to like... I loved how Rascal was Terek's faithful companion and defender throughout nearly the entire story... I really liked Red Leopard." - The Hope Chest Reviews

Enter a comment for a chance to win a paperback copy of RED LEOPARD.

Good luck.

Vijaya Schartz
Blasters, Swords, Romance with a Kick
http://www.vijayaschartz.com

Sizzling Kiss from Shadowed Dreams by Tina Pinson

 Matthew laughed again. "Woman... What am I going to do with you?" She shrugged. He looked at her closely, pulled the pant leg down, slowly caressing her ankle, and gently lowered her foot. Then he stood up slowly, giving her the most peculiar grin as he rose to tower over her. She shivered when she saw the fierceness that shadowed his blue eyes.


"Rebekah." It was a whispered groan as he bent toward her. Her eyes widened as he hauled her up against his hard chest, and kissed the breath out of her.

She pulled back, gasping for air. His lips sought hers again. She met him in return. The feel of his pliant lips against her was intoxicating. Fire slid to her belly. He kissed her eyes, her ears, her neck. My, how she liked it. She liked it too much and shouldn't.

"Matthew, I..." He covered her mouth with his own again, and sent her emotions soaring before she could speak. Her mind warring with the heart drumming in her chest, she lifted her hands, and ran her fingers through his ebony hair. His muscles contracted when she touched his neck. A tremor surged through her fingers and along her arms. She wanted the man, but he deserved far better. Didn't he?

The fiery warmth seeped further into her body no matter how she fought it. The feelings were present again. Feelings she longed for, but had no right to feel. Fear rose in her. She shook from the iciness of it. Her hands fell from the embrace.

===========
Books from Tina E. Pinson--
Touched By Mercy, In the Manor of the Ghost, When Shadows Fall, Shadowed Dreams
Twitter @Tina_Pinson
http://tinapinson.com
http://tinapinson.blogspot.com

Envisioning Stephenia

Stephenia McGee wrote her first story from a first-grade spelling list. Many more have followed, but A Legacy of Lies is her first novel. She is a member of the Christian Writer's Guild and continues to work with other writers to hone her craft.


Can't you just see six-year-old Stephenia writing a whole story with her first grade vocabulary? How darling is that?

In addition to writing, Stephenia also enjoys painting and working with horses. She has a bachelor's degree from Mississippi State University in animal science and has worked and trained for several equestrian farms. She is the Chairman at Spirit Horse Ministries, and continues to use these skills in the youth programs.

Another imagination exercise for all of us -- Stephenia in her boots and hat...paint brush in one hand, reins in the other... okay go back and imazgine one image of her at a time. Now add a few troubled youth hanging on to her guidance as she teaches them about the horses they are astride.
I feel a novel brewing in the back of my mind...

She is a lifetime member of the AQHA and a member of the Fort Rosalie chapter of the DAR.

Stephenia is married to her best friend and greatest blessing, Jason, and they currently live in Mississippi with their two sons.

Now a loving family of four to picture in your minds.
Thank you Stephenia for sharing this exercise and your biography.

A Legacy of Lies By:Stephenia McGee

Here’s a great recipe for chewy chocolate chip cookies that one of my characters makes in A Legacy of Lies.


Montana Chocolate Chip Cookies



Description:

Soft and chewy, these sweet, triple chocolate chip cookies are the ultimate treat! Great for curling up on the couch with a glass of milk and a good book!

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

1/8 teaspoon salt

1 cup (2 sticks) butter or margarine, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

¾ cup firmly packed light brown sugar

3 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 12 oz pack semisweet chocolate chips

1 12 oz pack milk chocolate chips

1 12 oz pack white chocolate chips

Preparation

Step One:

Preheat oven to 350*F. Combine the flour, baking powder and salt in a large bowl; set aside. Combine the butter, granulated sugar and brown sugar in a large bowl and beat with electric mixer set on high speed until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time; stir in vanilla.

Step Two:

Gradually add the flour mixture, beating well after each addition. Fold in the chocolate chips.

Step Three:

Drop the dough by rounded tablespoonfuls about two inches apart onto ungreased baking sheets. Flatten the dough slightly with the back of a fork. Bake the cookies until golden brown, about fifteen minutes. Transfer to wire cookie racks to cool completely. Makes five dozen.



Presentation Suggestions:

Serve warm with a glass of milk or top with vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce!

Excerpt:

The two women sat at the humble kitchen table and Glenda placed a plate of fresh chocolate-chip cookies between them. Sarah gratefully took a bite from one. She closed her eyes and savored the delectable sweetness. "These are great!"

Pride lit Glenda's features. "Thank you. They're my grandmother's secret recipe."

Sarah shoved the rest of the cookie in her mouth. She chewed slowly and stewed in her nervousness. She didn't have the slightest clue how to get started. Fortunately, Glenda broke the awkward silence.

"So, tell me about your trip."

Sarah swallowed and took a sip from her lemonade. "Well, it was quite an adventure. I really enjoyed the scenery and riding Sassy. She's a great horse." She paused to clear her throat.

"I almost had a pretty bad accident because I did something stupid." She forced a laugh. "But everything turned out okay."

Glenda raised her eyebrows. "What happened?"

Sarah recounted her encounter with the bull and how she'd been able to finally save the calf with Jim's help. Glenda watched her closely as she spoke. Sarah felt like the woman was looking right through her. Her heart beat furiously.

"Wow," Glenda replied when Sarah had finished stumbling over her story. "Seems like you did have quite an adventure."

"Yeah." Sarah lowered her eyes and willed the blood to stop burning in her cheeks. Then, gathering her courage, she decided to dive in head first. "Mrs. Wilson? I, well... let's see? Where to start?" Sarah said mostly to herself.

Glenda waited patiently for her to continue.

"Well, I'm afraid, first of all, Clark may have stronger feelings about us than I do." Sarah chewed on her lower lip and didn't meet Glenda's gaze.

"The thought did cross my mind."

Sarah cringed. Not the response she'd expected. Was she that transparent? "He's such a wonderful guy. He really is, and I really like him and respect him a lot. But, well, out on the trail I had some time to do some serious thinking, and I just don't think we are meant to be."

Her ears were burning now and she fixed her gaze on a blue and yellow placemat. Glenda didn't make a sound, but Sarah couldn't stop her momentum now.

"Clark wanted me to come here and meet you and Ronnie, and for us to spend more quality time together. We were hoping to deepen our relationship. Now, I just don't think that's a possibility." She drew a deep breath, and then ventured to look up.

Glenda picked up a cookie and chewed it slowly. They both sipped their cool, sweet lemonade for a few moments in silence. Sarah squirmed on the wooden chair.

Just when Sarah thought she couldn't take the tension any longer, Glenda said, "Y'know you should really talk to Clark about this. That would be the most appropriate thing to do." Her voice was calm, though her tone was corrective.

Sarah sighed, nodding. "Yes, and that's really what I want to do, but I'm afraid it's not going to be an option."



A Life Built on a Legacy – A Legacy Built on Lies

Sarah Sanders was always the reasonable sort, until she kissed a cowboy against her better judgment. Feeling strangely drawn to this mysterious ranch hand with a dark past, she finds herself swept up in an adventure that will force her to question everything she believes.

Jim Anderson’s cowboy gig is going pretty well. Except for one thing – he thinks he's going insane. Night terrors, hallucinations, and now a girl he has no business falling for. It’s better to keep his distance. But when Sarah is nearly killed, he will risk it all to save her.

When tragedy brings him back to the home he tried to escape, Jim will have to face the truth behind his strange circumstances and hope that Sarah will believe him. Digging up the answers to questions long buried, does he have the strength to face the dark family secrets that threaten to destroy them both?

Now Available at:

Desert Breeze Publishing http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-273/A-Legacy-of-Lies/Detail.bok

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/A-Legacy-of-Lies-ebook/dp/B007K1LS58/ref=la_B007P5NISY_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1352752217&sr=1-1

ChristianBook.com: http://www.christianbook.com/a-legacy-of-lies-ebook/stephenia-mcgee/9781612521497/pd/28979EB?product_redirect=1&Ntt=28979EB&item_code=&Ntk=keywords&event=ESRCP

Legally Wed by Patty Froese

Blurb:

When Rich McConaughey comes back to town, divorce papers in hand, he’s in for more than he bargained for. Lisa Young, the woman he was married to for six months, hasn’t changed a bit. His mother has though… she’s gone from matronly to meow, and his father has taken off with the secretary. Does anything last anymore?

Lisa Young feels chained to the hardware store her family has run for generations. How can she tell her father that she hates the family business? When Rich walks back into her store asking her to finalize a divorce she thought was behind her, she thinks that the answer is to sign on the dotted line and move on. Except, Rich isn’t making it so easy… and God has other plans.

For better or for worse, when you’re legally wed, things can get complicated.


Bio:

Patty Froese lives in central Canada where the winters are long and cold--giving her excellent excuse to stay in and write without guilt. She's a tea drinker, a novel writer, an adoring wife and mom, and she's pretty sure she's a British person born in a shivering, Canadian body. She loves rain, royalty, pretty knick knacks and three square meals a day. No dieting here!

If you'd like to find her online, come by her blog: http://pattyfroese.com. She's also on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pattyfroese, and whenever someone gives her a new like or follows her blog, she sighs in delight.

Legally Wed is her ninth novel to be released. Get it here http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-371/Legally-Wed-Patty-Froese/Detail.bok

Coming soon to Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

Part of Grace Filled Christmas Blog Hop

What makes Dark Days of Promise perfect for Christmas reading and gifting? Maybe it is the things that happen at Christmas, the anonymous giving, or the decorations, or the kisses under the mistletoe.

Thirty-four year old Vicki Laramie must learn to trust before she can love, but she might die trying.
While Vicki’s children grapple with the death of their father -- a man whom she’s successfully fabricated as loving, a lie her rebellious teenager recognizes -- she must find a way to support her family and find a role model for her boys. She never intends to fall for Staff Sergeant Chase, her best friend’s son, who suffers from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). She’d much rather choose a safer man to love, but her children have a voice in the decision she makes. With two deaths to deal with, a suitor after her money, a rebellious son, and Sergeant Chase’s repeated attacks, she can only hope to survive the danger she faces. If she doesn’t, her children will be left without either parent.

Link to buy: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-345/Dark-Days-of-Promise/Detail.bok

Sharing one of my favorite blog hop stops

Tina Scott runs an Author's Inquisition like no other. Here is most of her Inquisition with me and my book, Dark Days of Promise.

I understand that your new novel touches on the tender subject of PTSD. (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) Do you know someone who suffers from this?


Shaunna: I knew a veteran as a child and I will not soon forget the cautions when playing with him. He would bounce me on his feet in the air or let me use his huge muscular frame as my personal "jungle gym" as long as he was on his back and invited me to do so. He loved children and still does. Never, ever could I touch or try to tackle him from behind. Today I know why. Then I didn't.

What have you learned in your research that has surprised you most about PSTD?

Shaunna: It amazes me how common this is on one level or another. Most cases of PST are not extreme, but if you think about an experience in your life that frightened you, you might realize you deal with the post traumatic stress. For me, I was in a car accident as a child. It was during winter months and the car flew several feet into the snow. (I drew on this experience for a scene in the book.)

There was a situation in my life many years ago involving a helicopter. It was years before I could hear a helicopter nearby without an ominous feeling. But let’s move on to something lighter. What is your favorite bit of writing advice?

Shaunna: Write what you know and love. Write for yourself, not your imagined perfectly matched editor or publisher. Should you one day find them, they will, if they know their stuff and we all hope they do, bruise you and your precious fledgling novel. (Smile - those bruises heal and make you both better.)

So you have imaginary publishers too? [whispers off stage: I thought I was the only one.] You can’t imagine how relieved I am to hear that. [smiles happily]

...What is your writing process after your initial story idea?

Shaunna: For me, and I don't advise doing this. Pray for inspiration then sit down and let my fingers follow the racing, but calm thoughts. If I really listen, there aren't a lot of changes. With my current WIP it is different, this WIP has been written for a while, submitted more times than I care to count and yet, it won't let me sleep. Basically I'm merging the thoughts with what is already there on the page. Some of it is good and needs to be kept, some of it needs to be deleted.

So, you don’t advise authors to pray? [eyes open wide in disbelief]

Shaunna: I do advise authors to pray. I don’t advise ... well, never mind. Next question.

Are you a plotter or a pantster?

Shaunna: I'm a pantster. Sometime it gets me in trouble, like now with Talisman. I have to keep it fresh enough that I don't get bored knowing how it ends.

Do you have a favorite flavor of ice cream?

Shaunna: That's easy, Rocky Road, preferably Dreyers Grand Light (I used to work for Dreyers.)

Meep! [lip quivers] You worked for Dreyers? [takes a shaky breath. Turns to the side: I don’t know if I can continue. Then, nods] Do you have a favorite writer’s ice cream—I mean memory? Writer’s memory?

Shaunna: The day I knew Dark Days of Promise would be published. I didn't know by whom or when, I just knew it would be.

Tell us a little about your newest book coming out. The title, blurb, genre, publisher etc.

Shaunna: Dark Days of Promise is an Inspirational Romantic Suspense published by Desert Breeze Publishing. Release date is September 21, 2012.

Thirty-four year old Vicki Laramie must learn to trust before she can love, but she might die trying.

While Vicki’s children grapple with the death of their father—a man whom she’s successfully fabricated as a loving father, a lie her rebellious teenager recognizes—she must find a way to support her family and find a role model for her boys. She never intends to fall for Staff Sergeant Chase, her best friend’s son, who suffers from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). She’d much rather choose a safer man to love, but her children have a voice in the decision she makes. With two deaths to deal with, a suitor after her money, a rebellious son, and Sergeant Chase’s repeated attacks, she can only hope to survive the danger she faces. If she doesn’t, her children will be left without either parent.

Whew! Well, it’s time for some ice cream. Don’t you think?

Shaunna: You won’t hear an argument from me.

(Thank you to Tina Scott for letting me share this here.) If you would like more information on dark Days of Promise, please click on the tab at the top of the page.

Feel free to leave a comment and thanks for stopping by.

The Gambler's Brother

Welcome Jillian! Many thanks to Shaunna for inviting me over to her blog today to chat about my new release, The Gambler's Brother. I love the fact that the authors at Desert Breeze Publishing are so supportive of each other. That's so cool.


We all lead busy lives, but I'm glad to do this for you. Tell me/us about the book. the cover is Wow! My new release is a historical novel based in 1946. It's the second in a series of three books but don't let that scare you. It's a full and complete story and reading the first one isn't necessary for the story line in this one.

That is good to hear. So often we have to read all the books in order in the series to know what is going on. I admire the author that ties the series together without making the reader do just that.

I'm a huge fan of 20th century history as there is so much fodder for the imagination with all the changes that occurred in the world during those 100 years. Really, think about it. We went from horse drawn carriages to horseless carriages and even as far as the moon. Think about the people born in 1900 and all the massive changes that they lived through. It's absolutely amazing and jaw dropping.

I can still see my grandmother shaking her head as she watch Walter Cronkite report on Armstong walking on the moon. Now all three of those parties are deceased.

For this novel, I focused on the aftermath of World War II and the movement of the brides who married American servicemen serving overseas. It's so romantic (and scary) to think about these women and how they changed their whole lives to marry a man from a foreign place. How wonderfully brave they all were to have survived the war and then, just when things may have gotten back to normal, to uproot themselves in the name of love.

Quite the adventurous generation! Can you share your book blurb with us?

Blurb:  Beaumont McSwain, a former RAF pilot wounded in combat is now the legal officer onboard the Queen Mary. He's haunted by a tragic mission gone awry and wants to return to America and to a life of peace and quiet. Zoe Langlois, a former member of the French Resistance, wants to get to America and find what's left of her family after the Nazi's reign of terror. She boards the Queen Mary under a false identity as a war bride. Along the way, several of the brides are killed and Zoe's odds of survival are decreasing by the day. She and Bo are attracted to each other, but his secret as well as hers threaten their potential for happiness.

Nice! Now I want more-- an excerpt maybe?
Of course
EXCERPT

Bo reached over and shut it gently for him and turned to walk away. He took several steps toward the elevator to go up to the bridge. Two women stopped his progress.

The one with curly hair put her hand on his arm. "I'm Filomena Andrews and this is Zoe Crawford. We need to talk to someone in charge."

"That's not me." He jerked his head back toward the purser's window. "Check with Nate over there if you have problems with your quarters. I have to get to the bridge."

"It's not problems with our quarters and if you're going to the bridge, you must be someone important since they run the ship from there, right?" Mena asked.

Bo nodded once. "They do run the ship from there, but I'm just an errand boy." He waved the papers in his hand. "I have to go. Sorry, ladies."

"I wonder that they'd choose someone like you as an errand boy--" Zoe said as he stepped away.

"What? A gimp? How rude of you to point that out, madam," Bo snapped at her.

Zoe looked him up and down. She sneered. "What I was referring to, sir, was your obvious rank. I can see it by the stripes on your sleeve. You're a group captain in the Royal Air Force, correct? It seems to me that you're the sensitive one. I feel sorry for you going through life expecting the worst of people. What a sad existence."

Bo stared at her. "I don't have a sad existence. I don't think the worst of everyone. I--"

Zoe cut him off. "You've made it clear how you feel about people, Group Captain." She turned to her friend. "Come, Mena, let's take the man up on his advice and talk to this Nate person. It's clear that this errand boy has other things to keep him busy."

She pivoted on her heel and stalked over to the purser's window. Her friend followed her as Bo gaped in shock. What an impossibly arrogant woman. French, of course. Even being invaded and conquered, they still hold that attitude of superiority. I feel for the poor bugger that married her.

Okay, so now that I/we have to have more, where do we go?

Buy link:
http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-356/Gambler's-Inheritance-Book-Two-cln-/Detail.bok

Tell us more about yourself. Jillian Chantal is the pen name of a lawyer in Pensacola, Florida. She decided she needed to work under a pen name when she was sitting in a room full of staid male lawyers. Jillian has always been a storyteller and written for fun. When she was in the fifth grade, she wrote a story about Mr. Pepper who fell in love with Miss Salt. He went to medical school and became Dr. Pepper. This story got rave reviews and was even copied by the teacher and distributed to the younger kids' classes. The bug to be published someday had bitten Jillian.

Jillian put off her dream to be published as she went to college and law school. She was too busy to dedicate the time to writing due to the interference of the practice of law and raising children. Once her children got older, she started back with the dream of being published.

Thanks for coming by. You can contact Jillian at: www.jillianchantal.com
Twitter @jillianchantal
Facebook: Jillianchantal

PTSD in Fiction

I've toyed with writing since a teenager but have only written in earnest since 2005. Like most authors, the first attempts were awful but this one was different. In an effort to give Dark Days of Promise an authentic feel I endeavored to include some experiences of veterans I know and could often be found discussing the realities of PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) in their lives and how it could honestly be shared in this project. On the evening of this books first promotion, a woman approached me, excited to find someone who knew enough that she could have a listening ear. I realized that the scope of PTSD reaches deep into the core of our society and includes infants, children, housewives, the working and unemployed as well as veterans; in short, all of us. In an effort to treat this subject fairly, I altered my writing course from "romance with a twist" to helping our society, sufferers and innocents alike to becoming aware. It is more than those who experience the violence, more than the victims who experience this debilitating disease that are affected. It is their families, the bystander of violent crime and all of us who dare to care for and love them.

Debra Parmley

Debra, thanks for taking time to visit today. Despite being blunt, what novel are we talking about today?

Aboard the Wishing Star, my first contemporary romance which comes out Oct. 11th

So I'm sure you're counting down. Every release is exciting. Remind me why should we read Aboard the Wishing Star.

Aboard the Wishing Star is set on a cruise ship sailing the Caribbean with an ex-marine hero, a young widow who has a fear of water but learns to snorkel anyway, her creepy boss and an element of danger. If this intrigues you, this might be a good story for you.

Intrigues me? Of course, this is my kind of romance. What makes this novel different from others?

Without giving away plot twists/surprises I haven't read any romances which had a heroine with a water phobia and though there are stories set on cruise ships what happens when the heroine disembarks on one of the islands and finds her boss waiting is probably unique.

Ah hah! I see the typical "What would happen if?" that authors make a living asking, at work here. How long did it take you to write it?

This was actually the second novel I wrote, though it has been almost completely rewritten three times. (Me chuckling 'cause I just did this with one of my own.) From third person to first person then back again into third. It was a real learning experience, one I would not repeat. Trying to please a former agent and editor tied this book up for a few years. How long to write it? Six years, though I would set it aside and work on others while waiting to hear back about this one. Two of my books were published during that time frame and several others started.

A real lesson in not sitting on ones laurels. Did you do any specific research? What did you learn that surprised you?

This one required no research because it comes very much from what I know. I was a travel consultant and prior to that I traveled a lot. The Caribbean cruise route they are on is one I have traveled on more than one occasion and I've sailed on many different cruise lines and ships.

Wow, that makes for a promising read with all the pictures you can paint with your words. I'm getting excited about the cruise from here. What is it that you would like readers to take with them from this story?

To face fears and phobias so they don't get in the way of a joy filled life.

So true, so true. You say you've been on lots of cruises. Tell us one thing from your personal life that made its way into this story.

The heroine has a phobia of water and so do I. Like her, I learned to snorkel anyway.

I'll bet you added in a good measure of your fear with this. What are you most passionate about, other than writing?

Dance. I love to dance and to watch all forms of dance.

Blondes think alike. Gentlemen, are you listening. We love to dance. Do you have a pet?

Now that our youngest son and his dog have moved out our house is empty of pets. I'm trying to decide which breed of dog I would like next and have been pet sitting and visiting friends dogs while I contemplate this. (My hand shoots in the air.) A Shih Tzu, you have to get a Shih Tzu. They don't shed even if you have to keep their hair cut or comb it out regularly.

Are you a baker, a chief, a microwave mom, a quick and easy or a take-out/delivery queen? Your favorite?

Ever since I was in high school I have baked and I have a big sweet tooth. I've never been a microwave mom or a takeout/delivery queen. As the only female in our family of four, that would have been beyond our budget. Now that they're grown and on their own I much prefer healthy salads, veggies and fruit from the farmers market.

Thus the trim figure to go with the dancing. Where do you get your inspiration to write?

Everywhere. Every life experience I have really.

How did you choose the title?

The Wishing Star is the name of the ship they are sailing on, so this one really fell into place.

Is there any symbolism with the cover art for this book? Tell us about it.

There are three falling stars to wish on, on the cover. I'll leave it to my readers to find them. ;-) (Owwe…pause here to enlarge photo and search for stars.)

Of all you heros/heroines, who is your favorite and why?

Right now, Bethany, the hero of the book I am working on now. She's the youngest heroine I've written so far and she's learning to be more independent and more assertive. "Trapping the Butterfly" is set in the 1920's and will be an April 2013 release.

Love the title. So, any funny "researching your book stories" that you would like to share?

Nothing funny so far. Hot, loud, heavy and with plenty of smoke though. That was the experience of shooting black powder guns for research for my second book, "Dangerous Ties", which is set in the wild west.

Are you a panster or a planner?

A pantser by nature, though I have to plot some to submit a proposal.

Are any of your characters based on real people? If they are, do you tell them?

Threads from here and there are woven. If I borrow one aspect of a real person, I make sure everything else is different. Though I am pulling a real gangster into my roaring twenties novel, I'll keep him as a minor character and make sure he doesn't grab center stage. My secondary characters sometimes come out strong and have to be toned down.

Strong is better than paper thin in my way of thinking. If you could legally lay claim to writing any book from the classics to the most recently released book, what would it be and why?

Peter Pan or Alice in Wonderland or some equally imaginative story which would bring new worlds alive for children and adults. Books like that have always given me great pleasure, however I've yet to pull off a children's story. Most of my stories turn themselves into romance whether I intend it or not and I very much enjoy writing romance. (Me smiling my agreement here.) There's something very beautiful though about children's faces who are listening to a story and caught up in that world. What a gift such storytellers give to the world.

If you could be any fictional character, who would it be and why?

I'd rather be a real character and travel the world in a beautiful ship with an excellent captain and a chef to cook all the meals while I write my stories.

Nice, can we come along? I promise to stay on my side of the ship and write, except when we agree on a critique session of course. What have you loved the most about this story? What have you hated about it?

I love the way Nate treats Kara, teaching her to snorkel, letting her know she is safe and he's there for her. He's protective and will take care of her but he also wants her to learn to be strong and unafraid.

Back when I had rewritten the story into first person (on advice I should not have followed) I didn't like the story very much. But maybe it didn't like me either. It didn't want to be in first person and that is what I should have listened to. Lesson learned.

If you could change one thing in your life, what would it be?

Well, that ship with the crew would be nice. That or a beach house to write in. Other than that, I'm doing what I love and so grateful I am able to write full time now.

What is the one question you never get asked at interviews, but wish you did? (And of course we would like your answer.)

Hmm I've never really thought of that before. Who's my favorite secondary character? Old Moss, in my first book. He's one of those cranky old men, who isn't so cranky beneath that outer crust.

Where can we purchase your book?

My book is available online wherever ebooks are sold and on my publishers website.

http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-360/Aboard-the-Wishing-Star/Detail.bok

Thank you for having me here today. It's been fun!

You are welcome! Come again in the spring with your next release too, won't you?

Chatting w/ Nike, author of Perilous Shadows

Shaunna: So, what's new and interesting about PERILOUS SHADOWS?
Nike: This is the third novel in the series and it's a bit of a psychological whodunit with a ton of romance. My heroine, Kiera Devane, had been badly hurt by life, starting with the untimely death of her parents when she was a child. And things got worse from there for her. So as the story opens in 1947, she's a pioneer newspaper woman trying to excel at what's considered to be a man's job. She's brusque, opinionated, and afraid to get close to people. She has had a poor track record with men and has basically sworn them off. Then she teams up professionally with ace radio broadcaster Argus Nye to catch a killer and her world starts to change in way she can't control. She realizes Argus is a very decent guy who seems to care about her and at the same time the killer has singled her out and appears to be hunting her.

Shaunna: Your novels tend to be what some call "realistic Christian fiction," in that they have fairly gritty crime scenes and flawed characters, much like in real life.
Nike: I have not lived a sheltered life. And I'm very aware there is evil out there. As some know, I attended the Fashion Institute of Technology and worked in the bridal industry before I began writing. That was exciting and of course the atmosphere was lovely. At the tail end of that, I also did a stint in my spare time…but it soon became all consuming…as a pet rescuer. I became aware of the horrid things that humans are capable of doing to animals. From there I became a foster mom to two lovely girls who were returned to their dad. After that we adopted three beautiful girls, half-sisters. I worked as a volunteer for the adoption agency through which we adopted our girls. There I learned of the horrid things parents and grandparents have done to their children. Knowing all this first hand, I can't write sugary novels. I don't think that's why God has called me to write. And yet my stories are uplifting, and the good guys always win.

Author Bio:

Nike Chillemi has been called a crime fictionista due to her passion for crime fiction. She was an Inspy Awards 2010 judge in the Suspense/Thriller/Mystery category and a judge in the 2011 and 2012 Carol Awards in the suspense, mystery, and romantic suspense categories. She is the founding board member of the Grace Awards and its Chairman, a reader's choice awards for excellence in Christian fiction. She writes book reviews for The Christian Pulse online magazine. BURNING HEARTS is the first book in the crime wave that is sweeping the south shore of Long Island in The Sanctuary Point series, published by Desert Breeze. GOODBYE NOEL, the second book in the series released in December, 2011 won the Grace Award 2011 in the Mystery/Romantic Suspense/Thriller category. PERILOUS SHADOWS, the third in the series released in July, 2012. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and the Edgy Christian Fiction Lovers (Ning).

Purchase Links:
Amazon (including Kindle). http://is.gd/egHcSR
Barnes and Noble (including Nook). http://is.gd/RJF2zy

Perilous Shadows

Perilous Shadows Blurb: (Historical Romantic Thriller, late-1940s --- Sweet romance, warm intimacy, sophisticated themes presented tastefully

Pioneer newspaperwoman Kiera Devane is on a mission to prove a woman can do a man's job, as she hunts a young coed's killer? Ace radio broadcaster Argus Nye lost one love to a murderous fiend and his pulse races as he tries to protect Kiera from herself as much as from this killer.

Kiera was doted upon by loving parent, but they were killed when she was a girl and she was shipped off to live with a socialite aunt who had little time for her. In her aunt's house, she learned life could be cold and cruel. As a result, she grew up to be an independent and demanding professional woman.

Argus Nye, still bereft from the loss of his first love, can't understand why this female reporter is mesmerizing him. As she takes chances with her life trying to catch a killer, he's determined to protect her.

From Chapter 3


Argus walked Kiera out of the diner and took her elbow as her heels tapped down the cement steps. Her suit was austere, yet somehow she made it sizzle. He shifted his eyes away so as not to be caught staring, but not before taking a second look. "I'll walk you to your car."

"No, that's quite all right. I've been taking care of myself for a long time."

"Still, lass, I don't feel quite right."

"This is the Tastee Diner parking lot. It's well lit. What could happen?"

Argus rubbed his chin. "Oh all right, if you insist. I'll say good night here." He’d tried to be the gentleman, but she was skittish as a young filly.

"Trust me. I'm a big girl. I can take care of myself."

Fighting against an uneasy feeling in his gut, Argus walked to his car on the other side of the lot. Since Ada's death, he'd become overprotective toward women. Fishing in his pocket for his keys, he heard raised voices. One of them, Kiera's.

"Leave me alone. You cheated on me."

Argus dashed for Kiera's car, thinking he recognized the male voice, yet he couldn't quite place it.

"Give me another chance. You misunderstood. It meant nothing." Paul Gregorski, sportscaster at the station, had a hold of Kiera's arm.

A jolt like an electrical charge shot through Argus. "Let go of her if you know what's good for you."

Paul dropped the arm and turned to face Argus. "So, you bumped my show for your special report, and now you want my girl."

"My relationship with Miss Devane is purely professional." He would not allow the slightest insinuation.

Kiera squared her shoulders. "Look, Paul, I wish you well, but let's let bygones be bygones."

The sportscaster slanted his head toward Argus. "I don't want to discuss this in front of him."

"I'm not going anywhere unless Miss Devane asks me to leave."

Kiera pivoted away from them and pulled her car keys out of her purse. "I don't give a hoot what either of you do. I'm going home." She slid behind the wheel of the Pontiac, backed out of her spot, and gunned it out of the lot.

Argus watched her signal light flash a right. She made the turn and her taillights disappeared into the twilight. He laughed aloud.

Paul growled. "What's so funny?"

Argus shook his head and walked to his DeSoto, got in, and put the key in the ignition, but didn't turn it on. She'd never be mistaken for a Carmelite nun. Not in a million years. Blunt, not soft and feminine like his Ada had been. And where'd Kiera get that short Betty Boop hair-do? Not his style at all. No Sir. Where Ada was a sensitive and godly woman, this one was so hardboiled he couldn't imagine her on her knees praying. So, why was she so captivating?

Shifting Sands with Jo Ann Carter

http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-340/The-Roarin%27-Twenties-Book/Detail.bok

What happens when a self-taught environmentalist, who is very much into "natural" ways, meets a university graduate physician who's interested in the latest research and medicine, yet find themselves attracted to each other? Can such different people commit to love each other for a lifetime?


Welcome to book three of the Roarin' Twenties Series, SHIFTING SANDS... (A Historical/Inspirational series set in the 1920's)

This historical series has been my first for this genre. I can't even begin to tell you how much I've enjoyed this project! I have to admit though, in school I was never much of a history buff. Yet, as I dug into the setting, the people who surrounded it, and the 1920 years themselves, it came alive for me and... I fell in love.

For those of you who like to know a bit the of background and ground work to this particular story, I'd love to share with you the Author's Note I had written. There are two parts, the first tells a bit about the history and the second deals with where my thoughts had taken me while I was writing. So sit back, and let's take a peek at what was happening in 1920 in the Pine Barren's of New Jersey~

Historically speaking ~

The White's were a prominent family who lived at Fenwick Manor, in New Lisbon, New Jersey. The original farmhouse was built in the late 1820's. A west wing was added on and ornamental detailing and such was attached in the early 20th century. During this time, it was a 215-acre farmstead. (Currently, the New Jersey Pinelands Commission offices reside in this beautiful home and it is open to the public. Their goal is to protect "the natural and cultural heritage of this unique region.") * Photo seen was copied from http://www.burlcohistorian.com/NewViewsVIII.htm

The White family also owned and maintained the Whitesbog village in Browns Mills. Even today, many of the buildings still stand. Some are preserved for historical benefit, while others were converted into year-round residence dwellings. The general store is open to visitors and they have different activities you can join in throughout the year. The most popular is the annual, "blueberry festival" which is held each June. If you'd like to see some photos, please go to http://www.whitesbog-today.blogspot.com/search/label/N.%20Whitesbog%20Road

As for the characters, both Dede and James are purely fictional. Yet, I did try to stay true to the "typical" pineland people. These folks, while often gruff at first glance, have tender, caring hearts underneath, just as Dede did. You'll also notice the name, Elizabeth White, in this story. She is not a fictional being. Elizabeth was the eldest of three White sisters. However, unlike in this story, she was the sole woman who, with the help of Dr. Fredrick V. Coville, cultivated the first blueberries in 1916. Elizabeth never married and she owned and lived at Suningive, in the Whitesbog Village.

Fairview, the sanatorium, as seen in book two, Mercies in Disguise, has been portrayed as accurately as possible, to the best of my ability. Fairview did indeed have a fire, and the residents did move to Birmingham Inn, but I changed the date to fit the scope of this short historical series. Where fact from fiction deviates is, during the 1920's the sanatorium was never in danger of closing as in Dede and James's story. That's the fun part of writing historical fiction... you get to blend both reality and imagination together.

The real heart of the matter to me (and where the title, Shifting Sands came from)~

Is it wise to build a foundation on sand? Of course not, it moves right under your feet. Yet, in a way, as you saw -- that's exactally what Dede has done with her own life. (And at times, so have I.) Rather than building her foundation upon Christ, she's built her life upon her own strengths and perceptions. That suddenly "shifts" after meeting Dr. James Riley and the Lord. It is then that she realizes what she had considered her greatest strength was also her greatest weakness. Hence the title... Shifting Sands.

Perhaps today, like Dede, you're trying hard to do things in your own might... perhaps even earn your Salvation. God offers to me and to you -- to anyone who seeks him -- the same thing He offered to Dede, a solid foundation that can be found in Christ alone. Have you accepted His gift? If not, there's no better day than today.

As this series ends, I want to let you know I've been praying for you. I've been asking God to use these stories to encourage you and grow your faith. May God's face shine upon you.

--

So, after reading that, would you like to know more? Then here we go...
Blurb:

Dede White is going to shut down the Fairview sanatorium, no matter what. Her beloved aunt died because of doctors like James Riley and she’s not going to let him trifle with any more lives.

But -- James Riley isn’t what she thinks. Unfortunately, Dede doesn’t figure this out until she’s done her best to shut his sanatorium down. She might not be able to repair the damage she’s done, and even if she is, will he be able to love her back?

EXCERPT supplied by author

He drove down through the town of Brown's Mills in silence. As he neared the lake, he pulled off on a side road and stopped by a path that led to the beach. All the while, Dede stayed hunkered down behind his seat. "You can get up now."

She slowly raised herself up to the back seat and then peered out the window to double check. Apparently, she was satisfied. She sank down into the seat and sighed.

"Why are you in my car?"

"I told you..."

He held up his hand. "Dede, wanting to talk and hiding are two different things."

In a small voice she said, "I didn't want to damage your reputation any more than I already have. People are starting to talk... someone is spreading a rumor that the only reason I worked on the Thanksgiving program was to get my foot in the door of the sanatorium." She swallowed. "You know, to use things against you. But that's not true."

James closed his eyes. It was as plain to him as the nose on his face that Dede did not act vindictively against him, yet he could see how it would easily be construed as so. "Dede..."

"I am to blame for everything." Dede rested her hand on his shoulder. "Do you think you could ever find room in your heart to forgive me?"

A shock of awareness zipped through him. Now he was frustrated not only with the circumstance, but the attraction he still felt toward Dede. She's hurting, but why should I have to comfort her when I'm the one who has just lost everything?

A verse filled his mind. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

He sighed and turned around. "Dede, I know that you didn't set out to hurt me... that what you did, you did for your aunt... but it does affect me."

She kept her gaze fastened upon her clasped hands. "I realize that." She peeked up. The tears that filled her soft gray eyes were nearly his undoing. "So what now?"

He opened his door, stepped out, then opened her door, and offered her his hand. She took it and stood next to him. He bundled her up in his arms and rested his chin on the top of her head. "I think it's past time that we both lay our burdens down at the foot of the cross and seek the Lord." He looked out over the glistening water. "I've been real diligent to tell Him what I want... but not so much in asking what He wants." He lifted his head and looked down at her. "Will you do that with me? Ask Him to guide us."

She sniffled but then nodded. "I'd like that. Very much."

"Good. Let’s go to church together on Sunday."

Dede's eyes grew large. "But..."

He held a finger to her lips. "Shh. What others think about you or me is not what's important -- only what God thinks. If people want to talk, nowhere you go or nothing you do is going to stop that."

"Yes, I suppose you're right."

He tweaked her nose. "I like hearing you say that."

She gave him a wobbly smile. "Oh, James. I truly am sorry."

He leaned down and rested his forehead up against hers. "And I truly forgive you."

--

Purchase Link: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-340/The-Roarin%27-Twenties-Book/Detail.bok


Also available at CBD, Amazon, B&N, as well as other e-book retailers.
--

You can win a copy of either book one: THE FLOATING PALACE, two: MERCIES IN DISGUISE, or three: SHIFTING SANDS by leaving a comment. A winner's name will be choosen Sept. 24th and post ed on blog blogs so feel free to check back. we will need your email addy to send you the book of your choice so be sure to check and if your name is drawn we will need your addy. Prize will be delivered via email.

Best wishes,
~JoAnn
--
Encouraging faith though fiction
http://home.comcast.net/~jo.glenncarter/site/
https://www.amazon.com/author/joanncarter