Matthew 19 & The Quiltmaker’s Gift

Amy C. Williams’ devotion this morning on the rich young man from Matthew 19 put me in mind of this beautiful book I read over and over during my childhood, and I decided it was a good day for a reread.

Aside from the exquisite illustrations, the story gives a picture of what would have happened had the rich man said yes to Jesus’s demands, and traded all his worldly wealth for something far better. What a tapestry awaits us on the other side, when we finally trade everything this world has to offer for eternity with the Creator. How much better might our life be here, despite the hardships, if we start that process this side of heaven?

I think about all the toil and trouble I go through to get money to get stuff, and yeah, survival is important, and you need some stuff to survive, but I have to be careful that my focus is on the right things—on Him. I want to create for Him, and trust Him to sort out the rest of it.

Anyway, random musings on this Friday afternoon, and a book recommendation, no matter your age! Enjoy a glimpse of the beauty inside 😉

Review: Divine Summons, by Rebecca P. Minor

This one has been on my TBR for eons, and I’m so glad I finally got to it!

Sometimes you just need a good, old-fashioned, classic fantasy—this is just that! A well-crafted world, well-crafted characters, and a solid adventure that was exciting to follow!

And there’s dragons! 😉🐉

Review: Flashpoint, by C.M. Banschbach

Today is also release day for this beaut 😍

I’ve been so excited to follow C.M. Banschbach into new genre territories with this urban fantasy series, and it has not disappointed one bit!

Banschbach does not pull any punches with this one. She tackles some heavy topics here with all her usual tact and precision, showing just enough to cut you deep, and providing just enough hope to heal you again. The action is top notch, and kept me up way too late reading. Not that I’m complaining… 😁

As much as I’m not a fan of first person present POV, I found myself slipping into it with all the same ease I always slip into Claire’s books—effortlessly, immersively. It’s a fascinating world she created here, and I loved getting to know a little of it, as well as the characters.

The bromance is wonderful as is to be expected from Claire’s books, and the romance has that same feel—respect, camaraderie, vulnerability, family. I have fallen so in love with this crew, and can’t wait to follow them on more adventures!

Also appreciating the tall girl rep in this one!!

Happy release day to Crew Six, and Claire!! 🎉 Don’t sleep on this one—get it now!

Review: A Thieving Curse, by Selina R. Gonzalez

A fresh take, while acknowledging the tropes, and nods to the original fairy tale in just the right places. I enjoyed this more than I thought I would. I think part of it was the exact emotional state I was in at the time, and it provided some perfect words of comfort. While I don’t usually read romances, this one had just the right amount without getting too mushy, and some serious and tragic circumstances that propelled the plot past mere romance. I’ll definitely be picking up the rest of the series to continue on in this world, with the other characters. 

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Writing Update… of sorts

Less of an actual writing update, and more of a haven’t-actually-been-writing update, but here we go.

My day job has been a bit of a rollercoaster, looping and twisting and back-tracking a bit lately. It’s used up all of my energy, and most of my time. What time I have left has been spent recharging, walking in nature with my cats, and snatching a few moments of reading.

I haven’t written since last month, and then only twice since a month or two before that. I’ve had to push out the end date of this project yet again. And it’s discouraging. I had high hopes for the execution of this project. After completing my last WIP relatively quickly (compared to the decade I spent on the one before that, it was quick, ok?), I thought this one would be a breeze. Ha, the best laid plans of mice and men…

I originally intended to have it drafted by the end of 2023. And then March 2024. And then I hit major plot issues and had to start over—so surely by the end of May… June… August? Still at least 10k from The End, and hoping fervently, praying hard, I might have it done this year?

I miss it, I really do. Soon, my loves, soon.

What’s held you back lately? How do you overcome these things, or do you just have to wait these seasons out?

Realm Makers 2024 recap

Realm Makers wasn’t a phenomenal experience for me this year, in the best way possible. 🐉

— I never remember to take pictures at things like this, so here, have a picture of my loot, and imagine the friendships these items represent. —

💙

Because that’s what it’s all about: the friendships. I didn’t get incredibly inspired, or have any spectacular moments, but the days were filled with quiet (ok, sometimes loud and exuberant) conversation, fellowship, and reading in the sun-soaked windowsills. It felt like family; it felt like home. It was restful, yet vibrant life.

And now that I can feel the warmth of those days leaving, the color seeping out of the world around me, fading to muted browns and greys, I want to preserve that vibrancy in my everyday life. Come alongside me?

Name one thing that brings joy to your life! 💙

((Too many wonderful people to name them all—dare I even try? Just know that I love you all!))

Reviews: Met By Midnight, and Thorns At Sunrise, by Janeen Ippolito

I’m catching up on some reviews here, and trying to catch up on my TBR backlog, haha!

I read Met By Midnight last year, and finally got a chance to read the sequel recently, so I’m sharing my thoughts on both at once! ^_^

A tale of love and freedom sought.
Though short, I still grew attached to these characters and their strivings. I would have liked to see more of their bond before we’re really thrust into the midst of everything, but I thought it was a clever way to avoid insta-love. And I would like to know more of this interesting world—dystopian-esque fantasy that reminded me of the world of The Giver.

After reading Met By Midnight, I was very much looking forward to continuing Usilea’s story in Thorns at Sunrise!
A sweet tale of love and overcoming obstacles. I love the unique twists it brought to the story, while still remaining a very close retelling. I’m hoping to someday read more about a certain side character and her mysteriously distant betrothed…

Though only loosely connected, this duology still paints a full picture of a unique world, and are both enjoyable stories, read together or separately. I am still hoping for a third book, someday! ^_^

Reviews: The Drifter Duology, by C.M. Banschbach

Then Comes a Drifter

*lets out a looooooong breath* 💙

Seriously, I held my breath for most of this book, trying to assure myself that plot armor is real, and would come through for these characters. The stakes are high, the action is packed, and there are so many tortured souls here. Adrenaline-fueled is definitely a word I would use to describe this book! Claire’s characters are just as magnificent as ever, and I will eagerly follow them into the next perilous adventure!

A Name Long Buried

This is the best kind of sequel! Instead of continuing to ramp up the action, it slows down a little, dives deeper into the characters and their unique trauma, all while still building tension toward the final showdown. It consumed me, grabbed me by the throat; invading my thoughts, both waking and sleeping. It was the best slow-burn anxiety, but we made it. We made it 😭💙

I am more of a traditional fantasy girl, and these books are not something I would have ordinarily picked up, if I didn’t already know and trust the author. But I am so grateful to Claire for writing these books! The strain of hope in her stories, despite the darkest of circumstances, and the way her characters claw their way out of despair and dire situations is so inspiring! This duology especially is a little grim, and almost horrifying at times, but the hope is just that much brighter!

“How shall I fear that from which I'm protected by Heaven’s Wings?”

Even when it seems like Heaven’s Wings have abandoned us to the darkness, there is Light waiting on the other side, we have only to reach for it, sometimes to fight our way toward it. 💙

“If God is for us, who can be against us?”

Self-Doubt and Encouragement in Writing

They say your writing improves as you go, and no doubt that’s true, but what they don’t warn you about is the shock of going back to the messy chaos of the current work in progress after reading an already edited story, and the heaps of self-doubt and imposter syndrome that brings on… Hoo boy! Let’s just say that’s not the mindset I needed going into last week, but I’m trying to focus on the encouragement of actually enjoying some of my own writing, and the knowledge that it was once a hated messy draft, and I can make improvements on this one as well.

There are dangers to any kind of comparison, even comparison to your past self—always remember that not all authors are comparable, not all stories are comparable, and certainly not all stages of the process are comparable! There will always be ups and downs, and we just have to trust the process, and God’s hand in it all. 💙

Now I’m back in the trenches of drafting, losing myself in this part of the process, sinking into the story itself—all worries about craft will come later. For now, just me and the characters lost in their world. 🌊

Call for beta readers! ✨

Do you like the dark side of fairy tales? Do you like the world of myths, and gods and monsters that are larger than life? How about characters struggling to survive in a world stacked against them, and doing the right thing even when they’d really rather not? Then you might like Fae-Myth! Apply to beta read through this form!

✨Friendship over romance
⚔️Monsters
✨Mythology/gods
⚔️Competitions/rivalry
✨Grecian island setting
⚔️Quiet bravery/breaking free

53,000 word novella (less than 200 pages). I’m hoping for feedback by June 1st—roughly 4-5 weeks after I send out the document. If you’d like to read for me, but that timeline doesn’t work for you, please don’t hesitate to contact me and we can discuss details! ☺️

>>Apply here!!<<

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Year in Review: 2023

We’re just embracing the fact that January and February are a blur every year, and my New Year things will never be coming out before March… It is what it is.

Trying to recap 2023, and looking back over the year, nothing really stands out to me. And maybe it’s just the year-end exhaustion clouding my mind, but I get the feeling that 2023 just happened to me—not that I lived it. And I want to be more intentional about living. I can list the events of the year, some of them really impactful at the time, but is life just a list of events? What makes it more?
That’s what I intend to find out this year! I need to stop coasting (trudging might be a more fitting word…) and actually live the life I’ve been given.
I need to slow down, and actually do more—instead of a hamster running and running on a wheel—I just need to get off the bleedin’ wheel, and start doing things!

Realm Makers in July was as wonderful as always, and I really pushed myself to step out of my comfort zone, talk about my books (to publishers, even!), and make an effort to connect with some new people. It was a wonderful time with friends, old and new alike! You can find my full recap and thoughts on it here. ^_^

I read a lot of wonderful books in 2023, and found some new instant favorites! I’m trying to be better about sharing reviews of what I read, so hopefully you all can find some new favorites too, but for now I just want to highlight the two books that impacted me the most last year: Saber’s Pride by C.M. Banschbach, and Kill the Dawn by Emily Hayse.

I found myself in these books, little pieces of me scattered among the characters, in the settings, whispers of hope and encouragement to make me braver, better. And I want to get back into those worlds, to the better version of myself I can see in there. Maybe I can bring something back with me to the real world, to make me better, fuller, truer here, too.

And now for some fun reading stats:

>> 20 physical books
>> 6 ebooks
>> 30 audiobooks
>> 22 rereads
>> Longest read: Saber’s Pride, by C.M. Banschbach (570 pages)
>> Shortest read: The Summons, by C.M. Banschbach (12 pages)
Genre breakdown:
> Non-fiction: 3
> Historical fiction: 6
> Historical fantasy: 12
> Fantasy: 29
> Horror: 1
> Mythology: 2
> Comics: 2

I’d love to hear about what you read last year, as well! Feel free to pop into the comment section below with your recs! ^_^

Writing went well for me in 2023. I drafted and edited one novella, and began drafting another. I’m a fairly slow writer, so I was very happy with that progress! Having a completed story in a form that I’m happy with (it will need more edits, I know, but hopefully only minor ones!) is such a great feeling, and I will have more news on that soon! (If you want the inside scoop on the next step for this story, make sure you’re subscribed to my newsletter! 😉 )

My goals for 2024 are a little more vague than concrete milestones I’d like to hit, but here they are:

• Write more—more novellas coming down the line! If I can get at least two drafted this year, and possibly edited as well, I’ll be thrilled!
• Read intentionally—get to those books that have been on my TBR for a loooong time, savor them, share my thoughts to hopefully encourage discussion.
• Cultivate a community through posting here, on my social media, and my newsletter—I want my interactions to be genuine and meaningful—you all mean a lot to me, and I want to show that!
• Revamp my newsletter to better reflect my needs, and meet the goal above.

And that’s all for now! I’d love to hear some of your highlights from 2023, and your goals for the new year!

Cheers, and much love to you all,

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Spring and beginnings

Here’s to fresh starts, new beginnings, a time of rebirth! ✨ Greens and golds, pinks and purples. Buds pushing through the dark ground, sunlight on new leaves, the drip of melting snow.

I’m embarking on a new start in my current WIP—a phoenix rising (crawling slowly… 😅) from the ashes of a disastrous first draft, haha.

What are some new beginnings or rebirths in your life right now?

Inking Stories of Soul & Sword

If you’ve been here long enough, you’ve probably seen my intro, so you already know a little about me. Now, I want to share a little more about my stories.

I am a Christian author, coming from that faith perspective as I write speculative fiction—primarily fantasy, infused with mythology both completely original and derived from the mythologies of our world, with some excursions into sci-fi and dystopian. Little to no romance, I instead focus on all the relationships between characters. Most of my stories start with a vivid world in my imagination, and from there I meet the people that inhabit these fantastical worlds. My books are not explicitly Christian, but I strive to show Truth and Light in a dark world.

At the heart of my stories you’ll find two things: swords and soul. They’re character-driven and stabby, following deep souls through turmoil, trauma, peril, and personal conflict, to the light waiting at The End. And there is always light at the end. It might not be the happily-ever-after you’d expect, or what the characters are hoping for, or even what I expected when I set out. My stories are not always happy, but they’re not really tragic either—it is my hope that they are True.

So if you’re looking for stories that include:
• Deep characters with real struggles
• Vivid worlds with an epic fantasy or mythological feel
• Family relationships/friendship over romance
• Characters with just enough honor to do the hard thing, not because it’s honorable, but because no one else will
• Endings that satisfy, despite not being your typical happily-ever-after
I hope you’ll stick around for this journey, and the stories I have to share with you!

You can see where else I hang out around the web, grab a free short story by signing up for my newsletter, or come join my reader group to see more of what I’m currently working on!

Writing Ramblings

It’s been slow progress on the WIP the past few weeks… The holiday season brings extra busyness at work, and general overwhelm. It can be hard to find time to celebrate the joys of the season, and make preparations for it, and write, and… Sometimes it’s a choice between writing and sleep, and sleep usually wins, haha.

If you’re a writer, or any creative, do you prioritize creativity even in the busy seasons, or do you take a break for a while?

I’m trying to still prioritize writing, but sometimes the overwhelm is too exhausting to overcome, and less gets done. I’m also trying to let go of the unnecessary deadlines I’ve imposed on myself, and actually enjoy some of the season while it’s here, instead of being unproductive and stressed about it. I’m not going to have this draft finished by the end of the year, like I’d hoped, and that’s ok. I’m finding a balance, and there’s always tomorrow…

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Some Summer Reviews

I haven’t been keeping up with sharing my reviews on here, and I read some truly phenomenal books over the summer. If you like good friendships, adventure, and a goodly dose of dire circumstances, read on for my recommendations!

The King’s Curse, by J.F. Rogers

A thought-provoking tale exploring the merits of freedom vs. peace, set in a vivid fantasy world with a fresh take on dragon companions, and a unique steampunk flair. I enjoyed following Colleen through the twists and turns of her journey as she navigated kingdom politics, religion, and daring schemes, finding friendship in unlikely allies, and betrayal among friends. Looking forward to the next installment!

Saber’s Pride, by C.M. Banschbach

Saber’s Pride is truly stunning. The characters, the emotions, all so vivid—lost souls drowning in bloodshed and rage. And a clear strain of hope, of fighting back, of peace. Banschbach has outdone herself with this masterpiece!
This book had me through the whole range of emotions: yelling, laughing, swearing, grinning like an idiot… And loving every bit of hope and heartbreak.
This is a story for me—with all the themes, the perfect balance of stabbing and hugging, and the wounded characters my soul craves. 💙

(I’ll have to share a full post on this book sometime–it had such a deep impact on me!)

Oath of the Outcast & Blood of the Seer, by C.M. Banschbach

I love these boys, these brothers-a-little-at-odds, and this brotherhood of outlaws. All the right amounts of honor among thieves, and some very different people coming together for a common goal. I love the way the friendships are developed, and the way old friendships are revealed. The themes portrayed here are really beautiful—I’ve never read a book so infused with hope, despite the main character’s stubborn rejection of it.
And Banschbach got me really emotional in Blood of the Seer—but not just over the events of the story. The themes of redemption, forgiveness, and salvation from yourself were so poignant! Reading this I came the closest I ever have to actually praying for a fictional character, haha. The brotherhood between actual brothers, close kin, and adopted brothers is beautiful! And I loved the continued camaraderie between all these rough-but-gentle, and fiercely loyal boys! Some great one-liners in this one, and the banter is great as expected in a Claire book!
And that ending! Perfection. 😭💙

Rebel, Brave and Brutal, by Shannon Dittemore

I loved Winter so much, I was almost hesitant to start Rebel—but it ended well, so very well. I’m not sure it was quite what I was expecting, but it was good. What a wonderful journey, and true completion to the story. The threads of truth, and hope, and life in this are so strong. Dittemore really knows how to shine the light in her fiction! I will miss this crew—and yes, even Winter!

You can find more of my reviews here, or on Goodreads.

Gratefulness

What are you thankful for? 🍂

I am thankful for community.

God has blessed me with a wonderful family, who supports me, loves me, and who I can truly call friends.

My group of friends, albeit small, that have been with me since early childhood. Though we don’t always hang out like we used to, I’m grateful for you, and the impact you had on me as we grew up together. 💙

My writer community, met through Realm Makers, who is like a second family to me. You’ve inspired me, encouraged me, and I know you’re there for me, no matter how much distance separates us.

And I am thankful for the books I have discovered through that community, and how those stories have blessed me, stretched me, strengthened me.

If you’re reading this, I consider you part of my community, and I’m grateful for you! 🥰

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Review: Kill the Dawn, by Emily Hayse

I read this book in a day—it would’ve been one sitting if I hadn’t make the mistake of starting it before church! 😉 And it has my favorite female character of all time, which is a very high bar—I am e x t r e m e l y picky about my female characters, and there are very few I even like, let alone love—but this one, I want to be her!

Kill the Dawn was everything I hoped it’d be and more! Hauntingly beautiful, tragic and hopeful, with that undefinable something that’s the signature of Emily books. The beautiful and rugged setting, with its beautiful and rugged characters, each one so poignant, so well-crafted I felt their joys and sorrows and desires. It left me with the best kind of ache, that yearning for more. 💙
One of my favorite reads of the year (and probably all time!!)!

You can find more of my reviews here, or on Goodreads.

A Writer’s Journey

I’ve seen this trend going around Instagram, of writers sharing their writing history, and I absolutely love it! But I was hesitant to share my own journey, because it doesn’t seem like enough… 12+ years of writing, and basically nothing to show for it? But I’ve been encouraged by the many diverse paths the authors I follow have taken to get where they are, and I hope my lack of much visible progress can encourage someone too, haha.

2012-2022 𝘍𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘴𝘺 𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘺—𝘉𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘖𝘯𝘦 𝘥𝘳𝘢𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘥, 𝘳𝘦𝘸𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘯 𝘹2; 𝘉𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘴 𝘛𝘸𝘰&𝘛𝘩𝘳𝘦𝘦 𝘥𝘳𝘢𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘥—𝘵𝘦𝘮𝘱 𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘷𝘦𝘥 
2016 𝘗𝘳𝘰𝘫𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘙𝘦𝘭𝘰𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 (𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘵 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘺)—𝘱𝘶𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘥 2018 (𝘯𝘦𝘸𝘴𝘭𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘳𝘦𝘦𝘣𝘪𝘦)   
2022-2023 𝘍𝘢𝘦-𝘔𝘺𝘵𝘩 𝘖𝘯𝘦 (𝘯𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘢)—𝘥𝘳𝘢𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘥, 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘴𝘦𝘥, 𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨 
2023 𝘍𝘢𝘦-𝘔𝘺𝘵𝘩 𝘛𝘸𝘰 (𝘯𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘢)—𝘪𝘯 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘨𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴

This does not include the horrible fantasy novel that started out as a screenplay (I only ever got about 1k words in before I would completely change it again 😂), or any of the other projects that I have started, or random scenes I have written for future ideas, or any of my flash fiction or very short pieces. But I think it is good to show that sometimes you put years into something, with nothing tangible to show for it—but if it were not for those years and years, I would not have grown as a writer to the point where I am now, nor would I have learned how to pace myself so I don’t burn out, how to make the most of my writing time, how to find and fix the mistakes I’ve made…the list goes on.

So if you’re where I am, and you’ve been toiling and feel like you’re getting nowhere, just think of all the things you’ve learned along the way. And I cannot wait to see your stories out in the world one day! 💙

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Truth in Fiction

I love how a theme will jump out at me, from many places at once—the same theme in what I’m reading, what I’m writing, conversations and devotions, too.

Lately I’ve been thinking about redemption, about making a change to be a better person, to be free from the bad circumstances or maybe even your own bad choices. And I love the stories that portray that, and show that we need help—on our own we just sink deeper into our mess, into darkness.

A quote from one of the books I read recently captures this perfectly:

“Don’t,” Sean pleaded. “I don’t want to see you lose more of yourself. You can’t live in the darkness forever.”
“Maybe I’ve lived so long in it, I’ve forgotten what the light looks like,” he murmured.

^{-Blood of the Seer, by C.M. Banschbach}

Fortunately, Rhys had the mist to guide him in the vision world, and we have Someone who will reach out to us, too, and guide us toward the Light.
💙

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Realm Makers 2023 recap

What’s this, another blog post already? I’m as surprised as you are, and though I certainly don’t intend to post this frequently regularly, it’s already been a month since Realm Makers, and before too much time passes, and it all fades into just the residual warm feelings, I wanted to share my experience, thoughts, and how it impacted me, as this conference is probably the most impactful part of my year!

First off, I want to shout out some of the people who made my Realm Makers experience such a blessing this year! 💙

It was such a delight to have my dear friend, writing buddy, travel buddy, and excellent roommate Caroline along for her first year! Showing her around and introducing her to all my favorite people made it even more enjoyable for me. 😊 (And I think she had a good time too—even if I did threaten her at sword-point! After all, what’s the point of being a pirate [and having a sword!] if you don’t threaten at least one fair maiden!)

So many old friends, including the very first people I met at Realm Makers, my first roomies, Emily and Liz!
Heidi, wonderful roommate, adventure buddy, and my hobbit-twin ☺️

The henna party Lisa always puts on (I got a pirate tattoo to go with my steampunk pirate costume for the awards banquet 😉)
And I met another pirate pal, Anna!

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Chatting with Claire, and gushing about her newest book, Saber’s Pride (and yelling a bit about it, if I’m honest, but to her face this time, which was fun 😆)
Good conversations and an encouraging meeting with Stacy and Troy Hooker of Descendant Publishing. Talking writing, life, and all things books with Josh and Sarah Chadd, while admiring their wares at the Armored With Truth table. Helping Megan of Lamplighter Literary Creations set up the candles at her table, and stopping by often for a sniff. 😉
The amazing ladies who put together The Sun Still Rises in honor of Lani Forbes, spearheaded by Cassie. And of course, seeing Lani’s husband Kevin again!
Met Steven James and got his amazing craft book Story Trumps Structure signed, plus his new thriller for my sister to enjoy. 😁
I was so excited to meet Shannon Dittemore, have a meeting with her, and get my copies of her Winter duology signed. She is just the sweetest, most encouraging woman! And she absolutely rocked the winter look at the awards banquet!! ❄️

And to bookend the weekend, good conversations with realmies on the shuttle ride to and from the hotel—meeting Clint and getting an ARC of his upcoming book on Wednesday, and early morning coffee on Sunday with Amy while we waited for our respective flights.
And too many others to name—I know I’m forgetting so many, but it’s those beautiful, genuine interactions that make Realm Makers home!

You see, Realm Makers is the one place I feel the most truly me, where I can wear all the sword accessories, and have meaningful conversations about the wackiest things concerning books and writing (and a great deal of stabbing…). I never feel like I have to adjust myself to match the people or situation—I already fit. And that is such a blessing, to be surrounded by similarly unique creatives, seeking to honor God through their writing, and have a great time doing it!

I wasn’t constantly worrying about how to talk to people or what they’d think of me (unless they asked about my writing ). It’s an introvert’s safe haven, a true home, a glimpse of heaven. I wish I could name all the wonderful people I met or reconnected with, and share the impact each had on my soul, but there are not enough words to convey all the feelings. So I’ll leave you with a word that sums up my experience this year: Truth.

Truth in unguarded interactions. Truth in the words that were taught. Truth in the stories we write. God’s Truth, in His people, for His people, spreading out to the world. This is the beauty of #SpecFicFaith—Faith-infused speculative fiction—and the core of Realm Makers. 💙

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Revitalize

It’s been a while since I’ve hopped on here with an update, and I’d like to be a little better about that! I’m going to start sharing some of my Instagram posts here as well—if you already follow me there, you might see some repeat content. And if not, I’d be delighted to interact with you all here! ^_^

I’ve been pretty quiet about my writing lately. I’ve been busy celebrating others’ releases, cover reveals, contract announcements—I love seeing my friends succeeding in their work! But sometimes it’s hard not to compare. I just keep reminding myself, other writers are not competition, they’re community. 💙

I’m plugging away at revisions, usually my favorite part, but it’s not going as well as I would like. I’m making progress, but I’m losing that spark of passion that is unique to the drafting process. I know it’s still there, my love for this story, hiding under the technical, detail-wrangling, waiting for me to unearth it again.

It’s like a mosaic, so many little pieces that must be perfectly placed, but as you’re placing them, you are too close to see the big picture you are putting together, piece by painstaking piece. And trying to hold all the pieces together while you rearrange them can get a little overwhelming!

I’ve been riding the Realm Makers high, but I haven’t been able to force that amazingly restorative and inspiring fellowship into actual words on the page. But I’ll make it happen. Whether the mood strikes me or not, it’ll happen.

So here’s the takeaway, friends—if it feels like a mess, or that you’re just going in circles, keep at it. Maybe take a step back, get your bearings if you need it, but don’t give up. Your story is worth telling. 💙

Musings on Change

Change. There’s been a lot of it over the past couple years, for everyone. And my life in particular has been changing and shifting almost constantly for at least half a decade. But I’m slowly growing to realize that life is always moving, growing, changing. And my relationship to change is growing from outright hostility (oh, how I hated change for a bit there!) to acceptance, and maybe even appreciation.

It is impossible to avoid change–it happens to you even if you’re standing still. And any attempt to go back only brings different change. The past is always vanishing; each step forward erases the path behind us. We’re left with just the memories and lessons.

The change of seasons has always been my favorite, especially fall. The leaves change color and eventually fall to the ground, but the tree still stands, still grows, as it waits for spring. Some trees hold on to their leaves, even after they are dead and brown, all through the winter. But when spring comes, and the new leaves begin to grow, the old ones must fall.

In some seasons, we thrive. We branch out, growing, creating, living to our fullest. At other times, all we can do is survive. We reserve our energy, just staying alive. Cold, bare branches, our lifeblood stored deep, deep down, saved for when spring comes again.

I’m learning to recognize the seasons when they arrive, and adapt to them. Survive, so that you can thrive again. ❤

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Realm Makers 2022 recap

I’ve been collecting my thoughts on this for a couple weeks, as I slowly adjust back to “real life”. Realm Makers is such an immersive experience, it takes a while to fully catch your breath after it’s all over.

Despite the bustle and over-stimulation of the venue this year, it was a refreshing weekend with the unique fellowship that makes it special every year. The classes were informative as always, and the keynotes were both hilarious and inspiring. My favorite part, though, is browsing the vendor hall—stopping to smell the bookish candles, and drool over every beautiful cover. And there’s always spontaneous conversation with other browsers over a certain book, or someone’s fandom attire, or simply our shared experiences at the conference. (Or cats!)

I had the most wonderful roommates this year—and having the room and the company therein be a haven is essential for times when everything can easily get so overwhelming! Adventuring in the city before the conference began, and being able to crash behind their book table with them were highlights. ^_^

The weekend was bookended for me by the long drive, filled with deep conversation with a dear friend. It was the perfect note to start the conference on, and a great way to unwind after the full days.

Coming home, there’s a bit of a disconnect; almost disorientation—like stepping back through the wardrobe from Narnia, and finding the “real world” a little less vibrant, and a little less real. Realm Makers is truly a community set apart—a place where Christians can be fully weird, and geeks can have deep conversations about faith; where you can be yourself, and be understand by the people around you before even meeting!

Each year, as I grow more familiar with the community, and more fully realize the beautiful acceptance there, I peek a little farther out of my shell, push past the fear, and dare to say hi to someone new. And every time, I am rewarded and uplifted by the ensuing conversation. And even though I am still afraid, it is worth it.

❤

Maybe next year I will see you there?

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Free flash fiction!

I have some exciting news today! My flash fiction piece, Space Guardian is out today on Havok! This is such an honor for me, and I am beyond thrilled! I’d love for you all to check it out, and let me know what you think!

Free until midnight on goHavok.com

Year in Review: 2021

2021 turned out to be quite the year for me. Season two of a pandemic (can we cancel this show already, I want out…), a year of chronic back pain, and the end of a dream—it’s been tumultuous to say the least.

In the midst of all that, I began rewrites on my fantasy trilogy, tried to focus more on social media, and I traveled to Missouri for Realm Makers again. Good and bad so intermingled, it’s impossible to say if it was a good year, or a bad one.

Realm Makers was certainly the highlight of my year, as it often is, but for a very different reason last year. I met so many beautiful souls there, and the friendships and encouragement I received far outshone any knowledge I gained. My first interaction of the weekend was with another dancer, also struggling with chronic pain, and the instant bond of understanding one another filled me with a peace and joy that radiated through the whole conference. God met me there in so many ways. Meeting up with old friends again, and strengthening those friendships, as well as building new ones, gave me the courage to keep pushing through the pain and exhaustion that tried to chain me down. What a merciful God we serve, who understands our every need better than we do!
(_{I went as a pirate. Stabbing things always brightens my mood 😉})

It was a year of growing relationships, and growing with God. Funny how much pain can change the things you prioritize. I cherish my ability to write so much more now, after a year of being unable to sit at a computer. And I’ve had the good fortune to build up a friendship with another local writer, and spend more intentional time with my family, in the feeding of my soul.

But let’s not forget reading! Fictional friendships are almost as important as the real ones, and the way a good book can feed your creative soul is unparalleled.

I got to read a fair amount of books in 2021, and some of my favorites were by people I know! Highest on the list is The Knights of Tin & Lead trilogy, a fantasy western by Emily Hayse. If you’re into gun-slinging, and horses, and King Arthur legends, you must check them out! (Read my full review). You can see more of the books I’m enjoying on my Instagram.

I don’t really have a writing update for 2021–I made baby steps of progress on my fantasy trilogy rewrite at the beginning of the year, but that was all. It was a year of just surviving, to create another day.

When it seems like life is a vast ocean, and I’m just a little ship tossed on the waves, and my dreams are a wreckage around me, I look up, and hear a soft voice whisper, “courage, dear heart”, and I remember, it is well with my soul.

❤ Until next time,

^{And you have the relief of my back pain to thank for how very late this post is–I’ve been busy busy writing again, and the joy of that has pushed everything else aside. ^_^}

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The End of a Dream

Sometimes we have to give up our dreams. Sometimes they die. And sometimes, dreams just fade away.

Sometimes letting go of a dream can be such a relief, and sometimes it is unbelievably hard. Sometimes it’s both.

I’ve been a dancer in some capacity since nine years old, and it was my dream for years before that—longer than I can remember. And now suddenly, I’m no longer dancing.

And I think I’m ok with it. I’m moving into a new phase of life. I’ve found I job that I love (unexpectedly), and not dancing is freeing up my evenings for writing. And it actually helps in some ways that the decision was not solely voluntary.

After dealing with chronic back pain for a year, I decided that taking and teaching ballet several times a week was only making the situation worse, and I had to give it up in order to heal.

In other ways, it’s been really hard. I do miss it, of course, and sometimes I despair that my pain may be permanent, debilitating, and that’s a hard burden to shoulder. I question God’s plan in calling me (I thought) to something, and then taking it away again.

At first, since it was such a relief to not be forcing myself through the pain, I didn’t really think about it. But I distinctly recall the first time I answered someone’s “do you dance?” with “I used to.” And it came as a shock, that this is no longer my present identity. And because it was such a part of my identity—‘I am a dancer’—that shift to used to has left me a little broken. What if I never dance again? Does that make me less me?

But who I am can never be rooted in something physical. The physical will always change, crumble, fade away in this fallen world. But who I am in the eyes of the One who made me will never change. And in that I can root myself.

Though this is the end of a dream, it is not death. My passion for it may be a little marred by pain, but there is no saying I can’t return to it someday, when the time is right, and I hear the call.

In the mean time, on to other dreams!

"Let them praise His name with dancing
and make music to Him with timbrel and harp. 
For the LORD takes delight in His people; 
He crowns the humble with victory."
Psalm 149:3-4 (NIV)

“In the Glorious Fields” cover reveal

The final book in the amazing fantasy western trilogy, “Knights of Tin and Lead” by Emily Hayse is nearly here! Releasing March 29th.

Now check out the stunning cover!!

“When we are gone, these darkened fields that have held so much sorrow—they will be remembered as glorious.”

With Maria Pike unmasked at last and an ancient terror awakened to ravage the land, Archer’s heroes set out on a quest that will ask more of them than they know. Strength, sacrifice, and unheard-of feats of courage are required if they are to break the curse that threatens the land they love. Yet as friendships are broken and allies topple one by one, the men and women of the Western Territory begin to realize that the greatest threat of all lies not in the curse, but in themselves.

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Preorder now!

A giveaway can be found on Emily’s profile on Instagram

EMILY HAYSE is a lover of log cabins, strong coffee, NASCAR, and the smell of old books. Her writing is fueled by good characters and a lifelong passion for storytelling. When she is not busy turning words into worlds, she can often be found baking, singing, or caring for one of the many dogs and horses in her life. She lives with her family in Michigan.
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“The Beautiful Ones” cover reveal

I’m so excited to share with you today the stunning cover of my dear friend Emily Hayse’s upcoming novel, “The Beautiful Ones”! It is the second book in her fantasy western trilogy, “Knights of Tin & Lead”, and it releases October 26, 2021.

It matches the cover for book one, “These War-Torn Hands”, just beautifully, and I cannot wait to have them side by side! ❤
Now check out this synopsis:

“It’s not until you tame the wild places that the monsters come out.”

New hope brings new challenges and new blood from the East. With Archer and Rosamund Scott presiding over the land they love and Raymond Lacey serving as marshal, Glory Mesa is poised to enter a new golden age. But the hard-won peace is marred by rumblings of trouble on the horizon and the shadow of the ancient curse.

From Jesse Thatcher’s run-in with a grizzled mountain man to Kate Carnegie’s quest to bring justice to a pair of hapless brothers, the Western Territory becomes a stage for desperate deeds and unlikely heroes. Yet, unknown to all but a few, this season of range wars, breakneck rides, lone gunslingers, and gentle romances is building to a deadly day that will alter the territory and its people forever.

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Preorder now!

A giveaway can be found on Emily’s profile on Instagram

EMILY HAYSE is a lover of log cabins, strong coffee, NASCAR, and the smell of old books. Her writing is fueled by good characters and a lifelong passion for storytelling. When she is not busy turning words into worlds, she can often be found baking, singing, or caring for one of the many dogs and horses in her life. She lives with her family in Michigan.
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“These War-Torn Hands” cover reveal

One of my new favorite authors and dear friend Emily Hayse is revealing the cover for her upcoming novel today, and it is beautiful! “These War-Torn Hands” is the first book in a fantasy western trilogy retelling of the legend of King Arthur. It releases on June 22, 2021.

And if that cover doesn’t have you excited enough, check out the synopsis:

“They say this land is bound, cursed since the beginning of the world. And it’ll be freed one day by a man with war-torn hands.”
Rosamund Lacey has crossed a continent to marry Archer Scott because she believes he is a man set apart—a man with a destiny. But Alexander Mortimer, Outlaw King of the western territory, believes in only one kind of destiny: winner takes all.
Determined to reign supreme, Mortimer kidnaps the governor’s bride and wreaks havoc on the land around Glory Mesa. But when Archer refuses to choose between the woman he loves and the land he has sworn to protect, he is forced into a showdown that may cost more than his life.

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Preorder links:
Signed paperback
Ebook
Paperback (and any other major retail site)

A giveaway can be found on Emily’s profile on Instagram

EMILY HAYSE is a lover of log cabins, strong coffee, NASCAR, and the smell of old books. Her writing is fueled by good characters and a lifelong passion for storytelling. When she is not busy turning words into worlds, she can often be found baking, singing, or caring for one of the many dogs and horses in her life. She lives with her family in Michigan.
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Year in Review: 2020

2020 was quite the year, wasn’t it? A year full of firsts—some bad, but many good.

My year started off just like any other, with lots of work, lots of stress, and not enough sleep or reading to suit my tastes. And I hadn’t written anything in about a year and a half. And yet I was complacent, content with the way things were, with only the occasional “I wish…” drifting through my mind.

And then everything came to a screeching halt, and as blessed as I was to still be employed, I had fewer commitments by far, and I was blessed with time.

I started writing again, and I finished the first draft of the second book in my fantasy WIP in April. I started getting together via Skype with a friend of mine who is also a writer, and found encouragement in the mutual making of worlds.

In June, I took the opportunity afforded me by the pandemic to take an online training course to be certified as a ballet teacher, one of my childhood dreams! It was an intense experience, but a good one, and I was glad to be able to do it without the expenses and stress of travel. I have been teaching ballet for a couple years now; it is something I have always enjoyed, and may continue to pursue down the road.

In July, I attended the virtual Realm Makers conference, and there were many blessings in that as well. I did truly miss the in-person event, but because of the pandemic, we were blessed with three amazing keynote speakers instead of one, and I was able to meet up with a couple other Realmies from my area who I may otherwise have never connected with. Such wonderful ladies, and such great conversations together over that weekend! I will treasure those memories forever!

• 

• 

• 

• 

And in September, the incredible RealmSphere network opened–a space where lovers and writers of speculative fiction can come together to fellowship. A social network created by the Realm Makers founders themselves, it has been a happy continuation of some of the joy of the conference! If you write in any of the speculative genres (fantasy, sci-fi, horror, dystopian, etc.), or are a reader of them, I highly recommend you check it out! It is free to join, and there are also membership levels to which you can upgrade, if you so desire.

I’ve been bookstagramming a lot more intentionally this past year. I’m actually getting to the point where I enjoy it, instead of looking on it as a chore. I enjoy taking pictures of the books that I buy, the ones I read, and sometimes old ones from my shelf that catch my eye. You can find me @LenaKarynn.
(And you’ll see that my cats like to help me…)

Through all of this, I was fervently typing away on the third part of the trilogy, drafting the ending to the story I have been working on for upwards of eight years. And on December 31st, at 4:16 in the afternoon, I completed the draft.

It is one of the most intense accomplishments of my life. This is the first time I have started and ended a draft in the same year, and to have it be the final installment made it even more special. I have never even attempted something of this magnitude, and to have a cohesive (in the loosest sense of the word) story is thrilling. The full first draft of all three books is over 277k words. I am simultaneously elated and terrified to begin the rewriting process!

And now a few notes for 2021…

One of my biggest goals for the new year is to have a functional newsletter. I started one years ago, and sadly, it has been mostly neglected. This is the year that changes! In addition to the free story already offered for simply signing up, you can expect snippets, character features, and other exclusive content forthcoming! If you’re not already signed up, now is the time to do it!

I also plan to have the first rewrite of my trilogy WIP done by the end of the year. This includes a full reread–while taking notes, creating timelines, mapping out the land for my own reference, and creating character profiles… Whew! I better get started on that!

And of course, lots of reading! ^_^

Cheers! Have a great New Year!

A Delight in Dance: The Messiah

"Let them praise His name with dancing
and make music to Him with timbrel and harp. 
For the LORD takes delight in His people; 
He crowns the humble with victory."
Psalm 149:3-4 (NIV)

The Lord has granted us many ways to praise Him. He has given us gifts and talents that we may use them for His glory. I strive to praise my God and King with my writing, but I also praise Him through dance.

For the past several years, the dance studio where I take and teach classes has had the privilege to perform dances in the local choir’s production of Handel’s Messiah.

This year, as with many other things, it was done a little bit differently. We created a video production, which was a wonderful experience in itself, and allows me to share this with those who would otherwise be unable to see it. One of my favorite clips is included here for your enjoyment. 🙂

The full Messiah performance can be viewed here.

This year, above all others, it was a real joy to be able to praise my Savior and celebrate His birth through dance. Dance expands my heart in a way few other things can do. I delight in the Lord through dance, just as He delights in us. May your soul also find that thing that brings you close to the joy of the Lord.

"ADONAI your God is in your midst—
a mighty Savior! 
He will delight over you with joy. 
He will quiet you with His love. 
He will dance for joy over you with singing."
Zephaniah 3:17 (TLV)

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU AND YOURS!

Ashen, and Met By Midnight cover reveals

Double cover reveal! Uncommon Universes has two Cinderella retelling coming out on September 22nd, and I’m here to show you the two gorgeous covers! There’s a $0.99 preorder special on Amazon through Sunday (links below), or you can get a deal on autographed paperbacks through UncommonUniverses.com. Get Ashen, Met By Midnight, or both!

Stealer of warmth, bringer of death. What if Cinderella had a secret that kept her locked away?

Unable to make her own body heat, foundling Lizbete survives in the tavern kitchen, drawing warmth from the fires, the sun—and sometimes, other living beings. Her days are spent cooking alongside the tavern owner and avoiding the suspicious gazes of the villagers in her small northern town. While she quietly longs for the handsome Brynar, she knows she has no chance with the mayor’s son, even if he invites her to the First Frost festival.

When sudden earthquakes strike Brumehome, blame falls upon Lizbete, and not even her friendship with Brynar can protect her. She finds shelter in the dangerous caverns of nearby Ash Mountain. There she discovers mysterious people with her same ability to draw heat—and a fiery doom in the mountain that slowly awakens with every quake.

Now the festival Lizbete thought to avoid is her only chance to warn the villagers. Yet even with Brynar at her side, can the strange girl dubbed the Ash Lizard hope to save the town that fears her?

A rugged YA Cinderella retelling set in a fantasy world with light steampunk elements.

$0.99 special through Sunday!

Born in a small town in north central Oregon, H. L. Burke spent most of her childhood around trees and farm animals and was always accompanied by a book. Growing up with epic heroes from Middle Earth and Narnia keeping her company, she also became an incurable romantic. Her obsessions include dragons and tales about inner beauty and character overcoming extreme circumstances. Married to her high school crush who is now a US Marine, she has moved multiple times in her adult life but believes that home is wherever her husband, two daughters, and pets are. 

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~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

An outcast prince. A captive healer. A single night that changes their destinies.

She lives a nightmare.

As a Mender, Renna is held captive to an endless cycle of receiving and recovering from the physical ailments of others—a cycle that led her mother to an early grave. When her father becomes deathly ill, Renna is desperate to save her only remaining family. Even if it means allying with criminals and taking an illegal mission into the royal palace on the night of their greatest ball.

He’s haunted by dreams.

Unable to be Mended, Prince Jaric’s existence is a curse to his family’s façade of health and security. Marrying him off at the ball and sending him to a distant dukedom is the royal solution—but Jaric has his own plans. For years he’s dreamed of a young woman, a strong-hearted Mender he would give everything for. When she arrives the night of his betrothal, he’s determined to discover her true identity.

Met by midnight, their fates are entwined.

While escape seems the only answer, powerful forces conspire to keep Renna and Jaric within their cages. Forces that undermine the foundations of the kingdom itself—and threaten any hope of a future together.

This YA romance features Cinderella in an original fantasy world with a dystopian twist.

$0.99 special through Sunday!

Janeen Ippolito believes in Jesus, true love, and the power of your unique words. She’s a bestselling author of speculative fiction, writing resources, and poetry. She’s also an editor, author coach, marketing strategist, and the president of Uncommon Universes Press. When she’s not immersed in the geektastic world of words, she’s helping her husband with his youth swordfighting ministry, exploring a slew of random hobbies, and posting up cute animal videos on social media. This extroverted writer loves to connect, so find her on Facebook, Instagram, and her website janeenippolito.com

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Crowning Heaven cover reveal

Author Emily Hayse is re-releasing her debut novel, and I am honored to be a part of the reveal for the stunning new cover, designed by Kirk DouPonce of DogEared Design. Be sure to scroll all the way to the bottom for a giveaway!

Heaven Cassidy has only ever wanted one thing: a family. But when she opens a letter from her long-lost mother, she finds herself running for her life. Swept into a world of proud queens and ancient feuds, Heaven must decide whether her dream is worth taking on the responsibility of two kingdoms, one of which wants to crown her and the other to kill her.

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Check out the awesome swag giveaway!

>>Enter Giveaway!!<<

A Kind of Death cover reveal

Uncommon Universes Press is releasing their first anthology in October, and I get to share the cover with you! But first, a bit about the anthology:

Coming in October 2019…
Uncommon Universes Press presents a dark, profound, and occasionally humorous anthology—filled with fantastical tales and poems that explore love, loss, and the power of transformation.

And now, the beautiful cover!

Uncommon Universes Press is a traditional publishing company featuring fresh indie stories with unique world building, potent plots, and uncommon heroes. Check out the links below to learn more!

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My first subscription box

As a reward for a personal accomplishment, I bought myself a book subscription box. Because that’s the only proper way to reward oneself.

I got the one-time, special edition Epic Journeys box from PhoenixCrate. Check out all the pretty books and awesome swag it contains!

PhoenixCrate is amazing. They’ve only done three boxes so far, but from what I’ve seen on social media, they have all been filled with incredible goodies. I hope someday to subscribe to their quarterly boxes.

If you’re interested in subscribing, or getting a single box, you can use this link to get $5 off! 😀

Review: Gauntlet of Iniquity by Daniel Adorno

Gauntlet of Iniquity by Daniel Adorno

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


The Gauntlet of Iniquity is a thrilling continuation of the story of Lucius and his quest to reforge the Requiem sword. It is filled with new adventures and a few exciting twists. Along the way, we meet great new characters to root for, and get to know the old ones better.

I was especially excited to see more of Ravenmane in this book. She’s such an interesting and complex character, and I’m looking forward to more of her in the final book of the trilogy.

A solid 4 out of 5 stars.

I received a copy of this book from the author. All views expressed are my own honest opinion.

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Project Relocation Paperback!

Project Relocation is now available in paperback! Grab a copy for yourself, or someone you know–it’s a great gift for any cat-lover!

It is 25% off between now and December 15th. That’s only $5.99! Find it on Amazon.

Black Friday 2018 sale!!

BOOKS BOOKS BOOKS!!!

Want some free or super cheap books to read while you recover from your Thanksgiving feast? Then check out this amazing sale of over 150 ebooks $.99 or FREE! There are also a long list of paperbacks for sale at incredibly discounted prices as well! And the good news is they are all clean reads! Be sure to go check out this amazing sale here.

There is also an amazing giveaway going on! Grand Prize winner receives 20 paperbacks and the 2^nd place winner gets 20 e-book titles from the sale for free!

You can sign up for the giveaway here.

Giveaway runs from November 22^nd till November 26^th @12AM ET Grand prize open to US winners only. 2^nd place prize is open Internationally.

2nd Place Winner Receives 20 E-books

Gather Round the Fables by Erika Matthews

The Case of the Tabloid Tattler by Perry Kirkpatrick AudioBook

The Twelve Cats of Christmas by Perry Kirkpatrick Audiobook

Coffee Shop Christmas Ebook by Ryana Lynn Miller

The Land of Cotton ebook by Ryana Lynn Miller

Entertaining Angels, Entertaining Angels Book 1 by Emerald Barnes

Secret’s Kept by Jennette Mbewe

The Firethorn Crown by Lea Doue

Beyond Broken Pencils by Julie C. Gilbert

Ashlynn’s Dreams by Julie C. Gilbert

Soldier On by Vanessa Rasanen

Burning Rose by Hope Ann

Iced and Nailed by Avery Daniels

Imani Earns Her Cape by Bokerah Brumley

October by J. Grace Pennington

Disowned by Sarah Addison Fox

My Compass Home by Michaela Bush

Summer Shadows and Necessary Evil by Killarney Traynor

 

Grand Prize Winner Receives 20 Paperbacks

Mythical Doorways by Jenelle Schmidt

Faith is the Victory by Faith Blum

Kiera by Kate Willis

Because Anonymous Diana L. Sharples

After: Book One in The Neverway Chronicles by Savannah Jezowski

Specter: Book Two in The Neverway Chronicles by Savannah Jezowski

Leandra’s Enchanted Flute by Katy Huth Jones

Eagle Eyes by Tammy Lash

London in the Dark by Victoria Lynn   

When Beauty Blooms by Victoria Lynn

Aerisia: Land Beyond the Sunset by Sarah Ashwood

Iced and Nailed by Avery Daniels

There Was Always Laughter in Our House by Sarah Holman

Bridgers: A Parable (paperback) by Angie Thompson

Love Blind (paperback) by Angie Thompson

Code by Angie Thompson

Christmas Eve at the Backdoor by Rebekah Morris

The Seven Drawers by Kendra E. Ardnek

He’s Making Diamonds: A Teen’s Thoughts on Faith Through Chronic Illness by Sara Willoughby

I’m published!

I published my very first short story yesterday, which means I can check ‘teen author’ off my bucket list! (Just barely! 😉 )

Project Relocation is a sweet, sci-fi short story featuring two space explorer kitties, and you can get a copy for free by signing up for my newsletter. This story is a token of my appreciation for the support of my faithful subscribers, and if you haven’t joined already, I’d love to have you on board!

You can also add it on Goodreads, or grab a copy on Amazon or Smashwords.

Project Relocation by Lena Karynn Tesla

From the cold of empty space to the heat of the Egyptian desert.

They have consumed their own world, leaving nothing but an empty waste. Now they’re on the search for a new home for their feline race.

Jara and Maghamir are on a mission to explore a newly discovered planet, only to find it already inhabited. With the help of a new friend, these feline explorers must attempt to blend into the culture of the strange hairless creatures know as humani.

Review: Kingdom of Ash and Soot by C.S. Johnson

Kingdom of Ash and Soot by C.S. Johnson

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Kingdom of Ash and Soot is a cute, well-written story of intrigue and romance.

I found the characters to be well-rounded and unique. I enjoyed their interactions, and look forward to more in the next book.
The plot was fun, and moved along relatively rapidly. I did guess the ending twist by halfway through the book, but it was still quite enjoyable!
There were some heavy doses of romance throughout, which is less to my liking, but overall I found it to be a fun read! I look forward to the next books in the series!

4 out of 5 stars

I would recommend this book for ages 15+, for discussions of sex.

I received a copy of this book from the author. All views expressed are my own honest opinion.

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Released today! Find it on Amazon.

After blog tour

 

About the Book

“Some people might say that there are worse fates than death. In some worlds, perhaps that may well be the case. But in mine, it would be a lie. There is no greater horror than that which comes after death.”

On the streets of an ancient city, with creepers wandering at will and a mysterious assassin leaving corpses all over Pandorum, a young Spook with a dark secret will do anything to keep his brothers safe, even from forces that threaten to tear them apart from within. While others are searching for impossible cures from outlawed Spinners, Conrad Ellis III does not believe in fairy tales and miracles. But when he discovers a strange girl with shrouded ties to the Assassin, Eli is forced to leave the streets he loves and travel into the very heart of Pandorum in order to save a member of his family. With his health failing and the danger escalating, there is no escaping the inevitable truth. Today, he may hunt creepers.

Tomorrow, he just might be one.

 

About the Author

Savannah Jezowski lives in a drafty farmhouse in Amish country with her Knight in Shining Armor, a wee warrior princess, and two English Springer Spaniels. She is the author of When Ravens Fall and The Neverway Chronicles. Her work has been published in Ray Gun Revival, Mindflights and in the student publication of Fountains at Pensacola Christian College. She is also a featured author in Five Enchanted Roses from Rooglewood Press and Mythical Doorways from Fellowship of Fantasy. She likes books, faeries, writing hats and having tea with her imaginary friends.

Website — Facebook — Instagram — Goodreads

 

Giveaway Time!

Explore the world of After by entering to win a signed paperback! (US only)

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Blog Tour Schedule

Monday, May 14^th

• Review – Rachel Lopez
• Review – Cup of Books
• Review – Hunting for Truth

Tuesday, May 15^th

• Guest Post – Lands Uncharted
• Book Review – Reflections of an Author
• Guest Post – Jenelle Schmidt

Wednesday, May 16^th

• Book Spotlight – Seasons of Humility
• Author Interview – Jilligan’s Island

Thursday, May 17^th

• Character Interview – Jenelle Schmidt
• Character Interview – Unicorn Quester

Friday, May 18^th

• Author Interview – O. Bonham
• Author Interview – Autumn J. Cruz Writing
• Book Spotlight – Read, Write, Laugh, DANCE

Saturday May 19^th

• Author Interview – Liv K. Fisher

Monday, May 21^st

• Blog Tour Wrap-Up –Unicorn Quester

 

I Finished??

I’ve got some exciting news to share…

I completed the first round of rewrites on Something More! It came out at a little over 87k words, which is 23k more than the first draft. I’m pretty pleased with the progress, to be honest. We’ll see what my alpha readers think of it…

That’s right people, I’m actually letting someone read an imperfect draft. Considering I just screwed up the courage to tell my family that I’m writing at all, this was a pretty big and nerve wracking step for me. And I’m feeling a little bipolar about the whole thing. Waiting for feedback is a cross between anxiously wishing they’d get back to you, and panicking that someone might actually be reading what you wrote. 😉

In the mean time, I’m keeping myself busy with drafting the second book in the trilogy. It’s coming along pretty slowly (I think I may have forgotten how to draft, lol), but I’m so excited to be writing it! We meet quite a few new characters, one of which is my personal favorite. 🙂

I’m sending out a newsletter in a few days, and it will have a short snippet from the beginning of Book Two in it, so if you’re not signed up for that, go subscribe! I will probably also post a few excerpts here, or on various social media, as I’m writing, so keep an eye out for those. I’ll also be working on publishing an awesome short story that will be a freebie for my subscribers, and you won’t want to miss it!

Until next month then, I’ll be busily writing! 🙂

Review: Create by Perry Elisabeth Kirkpatrick

Create by Perry Elisabeth Kirkpatrick
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Create is a lovely story of two lonely creatives and the impact they can have on the world. As a writer myself, it really struck a cord with me, and reminded me how much of an impact our work can have, and how important it is to come along side other creatives. Beautifully written!

I received a free copy of this book from the author. All opinions expressed are my own, honest and unbiased.

Visit the author

View all my reviews on Goodreads
More reviews here

Released March 15! Find it on Amazon.

Dagger’s Sleep cover reveal

I’ve got a cover reveal to share with you today, for Tricia Mingerink’s upcoming book, Dagger’s Sleep. I love the title (come on, daggers?? Yes please), and it has an absolutely stunning cover!

Check it out below!

A prince cursed to sleep.
A princess destined to wake him.
A kingdom determined to stop them.

High Prince Alexander has been cursed to a sleep like unto death, a curse that will end the line of the high kings and send the Seven Kingdoms of Tallahatchia into chaos. With his manservant to carry his luggage and his own superior intelligence to aid him, Alex sets off to find one of the Fae and end his curse one way or another.

A hundred years later, Princess Rosanna learns she is the princess destined by the Highest King to wake the legendary sleeping prince. With the help of the mysterious Daemyn Rand, can she find the courage to finish the quest as Tallahatchia wavers on the edge of war?

One curse connects them. A hundred years separate them. From the rushing rivers of Tallahatchia’s mountains to the hall of the Highest king himself, their quests will demand greater sacrifice than either of them could imagine.

Release Date: May 28, 2018

About the author:

Tricia Mingerink is a twenty-something, book-loving, horse-riding country girl. She lives in Michigan with her family and their pack of pets. When she isn’t writing, she can be found pursuing backwoods adventures across the country.

You can connect with her on Facebook, Pinterest, Goodreads, Twitter, Instagram, and her blog.

To make things even more exciting, Tricia Mingerink is going to be co-hosting a blog tour from May 22 to 28 with Sarah Addison-Fox to celebrate the release of both of their latest books. Her next book, Dissociate, releases May 22. More details about blog tour will be coming in April.

Getting It Done

My goal for March is to just get it done. I’ve been working on rewrites (second draft) of Something More since November, and it’s time to be finished. I need to stop with the excuses; stop with the ‘I’m too tired’, ‘It’s late; I’ll write tomorrow’, ‘I don’t have very much time, so why bother’. I’ve started writing at least a little bit everyday, even on my busy days. I can feel myself forming a habit. First thing after I wake up, I write; last thing before bed, I write. It’s the bookends to my day.

I recently read a short book by Chris Fox, 5,000 Words Per Hour, and I’ve started implementing some of the tips he gives. One of them is to have a regular time to write. It’s really helped me to keep up my momentum. I used to skip days when I was busy, but then I would start skipping days when I just didn’t feel like writing. Pretty soon, entire weeks would go by without me writing a single word. And even if my hourly word count isn’t very high right now, the words are still accumulating, because at least I’m writing something.

It might be easier to increase my writing speed if I didn’t always have to deal with this:

She likes to help

I’ve resolved to get this draft done by the end of March! Fox’s book gave me just the kick of motivation that I needed. A lot of the suggestions were things that I already knew, but it’s always good to have a reminder. It was a good read, very quick, and I do recommend it if you’re looking for some strategies.

If anyone’s interested in joining me for my morning or evening writes (it’s a writing rite, lol. OK, I’m done… :P), I’d love the company! 🙂

The Dreaded Question

I just read a great post by Nadine Brandes on The Dreaded Question:

The first fifteen years of your life are spent in blissful ignorance. All you have to do is grow up, do the homework, go adventuring, navigate friendships and awkward crushes and different sports. But then…you hit junior year of high school and it happens. For the lucky ones, it doesn’t happen until senior year of high school. But I can guarantee that….IT. WILL. HAPPEN.

The question.

“So, what are you going to do once you graduate?”

And the answer is…

Read the rest of the post here.

This really speaks to me right now, during this crazy, post-highschool, everyone-assumes-you-should-be-in-college time of life I’m in right now. Because yes, I’m panicking, and no, I don’t really have any plans anymore. But sometimes that’s ok. Thank you, Nadine, for helping me realize that.

If you don’t know Nadine yet, you must. She’s the sweetest, most amazing human ever. And she’s a ninja, so watch out! 😉 Nadine Brandes

The Worth of a King cover reveal

Hello! I’ve got a lovely cover reveal for you today! Kendra E. Ardnek is releasing her newest book, The Worth of a King, on August 27th, and she asked me to help share the beautiful cover with you all.

So, without further ado…

Princess Obsidia’s father was killed the night she was born. Since there was no male heir, the crown went to the man who killed him, by Dialcian law. This never bothered her, growing up, and when it comes time for Obsidia to choose her husband, she chooses Prince Delaney, the son of that man, with little hesitation. Only then does her life start crumbling around her.

Adrian expected to live a normal life, taking his father’s place at the print shop when his father retired. But, on his eighteenth birthday, when the princess’ engagement is announced, his world is ripped out from under him when he learns that his life was a ruse, and he is the twin brother to the princess – and expected to take back his father’s throne.

Delaney knows that his country is hovering on the brink of war – and that his father may harbor murderous intentions towards his intended bride due to her Zovordian blood. He wants nothing more than to protect Obsidia and his people, but as merely prince, he has little power against his father.

The ancient war between the Dragons and the Immortal King and Queen is nearing its climax, and the three are already caught in it.

Check out this intriguing pin and excerpt.

“My conversation isn’t meaningless!” Nadilynn protested. “At least I don’t spend three hours discussing the nuances of a law about chickens, or four about whether some king’s death was natural or due to poison.”
“No,” said Obsidia, dryly. “You spend five hours talking about how sashes are so in style.”
“They are so not!” Nadilynn exclaimed. Then she lowered her voice “Not thick ones, anyways. Ribbons used as sashes are acceptable, belts, especially beaded belts, are best…”
“And there we go,” Delaney groaned. “You did have to get her started.”
Obsidia just shrugged and mouthed a “sorry.”

You can check out the entire first chapter here.

Kendra E. Ardnek loves fairytales and twisting them in new and exciting ways. She’s been or acting them on her dozen plus cousins and siblings for years. “Finish your story, Kendra,” is frequently heard at family gatherings. Her sole life goal has always been to grow up and be an author of fantasy and children’s tales that glorify God and His Word.
Find her online at: 

Website || Blog || Goodreads || Facebook || Twitter || Amazon 

 

Check out the other stops on the cover reveal tour:

Savannahjaysworkshop

Dreams and Dragons

Unicorn Quester

Kiri Liz

Morgan Elizabeth Huneke

Read, Write, Laugh, Dance

Elvish Pens, Fantastical Writings

Books, Baking, and Cowgirl Boots

Jenelle Schmidt

Reality Reflected

Jessica Greyson

The Music of a Story

The Flowering Vales

The Rambling Rose

Written Rest

The Labyrinth

Bible and Books

Jaye L. Knight

The Pursued spotlight

I’m spotlighting a new book release for you to check out today. Author Willowy Whisper is releasing The Pursued, the third and final book in her Hills of Innocence Trilogy.

Fawn Wendell has no choice but to flee. Her life depends on it. She has no where to go, but that doesn’t matter. She has to disappear. She has to get lost, never to be found again, before her pursuer attacks.

Adam Preston loves his children. They’re all he has left. But with the ranch to run, is there any way he can give them what they need, especially when he’s hurting himself?

Jake Sumner returns to an old house, a place that arouses too many memories. If he decides to stay, he may have trouble on his hands . . . trouble a whole lot bigger than him.

Sadie is an injured, silent bird, locked in a cage she can’t free herself from. Her nightmares are real. The fear kills her voice. Will she ever fly again?

If you haven’t read The Innocent or The Letter, be sure to check those out too. You can find the whole trilogy on Goodreads and Amazon.

About the Author
Willowy Whisper is a young, Christian fiction author. She lives in a beautiful place called West Virginia, nestled between mountain and field. She is the author of nine novels, eight of which are published, and numerous short stories. She is also a born-again believer in Jesus Christ, an incurable romantic, and a passionate dreamer. To follow her, visit her blog: www.willowywhisper.com

New Year Goals 2018

It’s another new year. 2017 held a lot of changes for me, and I know that there are more to come during this time of my life, but it is nice to have a little stability back, and a little constancy, too. As I look forward to the coming year, I have a few goals I’d like to share with you.

I’d like to read more this year. I did not get as many books read last year as I would have liked, and my TBR is only getting bigger… I’m shooting for 50 books this year. I’m not going to even try predicting which ones, because I’ve been terribly off in the past, but I would like to at least finish all the books I’ve already started. If you’d like to follow my reading progress you can find me on Goodreads.

I’d also like to get more writing done this year. I’m trying to be a lot more regular with my writing—aiming for 3k words a week. I need to push harder at the beginning to get Something More done sooner. I’m over 25k into the first set of rewrites, after which it will go to my alpha readers. I’m hoping to have it ready for beta readers by March or April.

I’m going to try to blog regularly, too—maybe even at the beginning of every month. If you have any suggestions for posts you’d like to see, I’d love to hear them!

And, last goal, I’m going to be better about sending out Newsletters. I’m going to make sure I do two to four a year, starting with one later this month. If you haven’t already, please do subscribe! There will be a few Something More teasers and some other fun writing related things coming up.

What are some of your goals for 2018? I’d love to hear your plans, and offer some encouragement!

Get exclusive content and exciting opportunities when you sign up for my newsletter! If you or anyone you know is interested in beta reading, this is the place to get more information!

Subscribe now!

Am I High? NaNo 2017 Update

Only one week of NaNoWriMo left, and I am dismally behind. But I’m not even upset about my poor word count. You know why? Because I’m finally writing again! It’s been so long, and it just feels so good to be back! I imagine this is what it must be like to be high. I’ll be going about my day, doing normal activities, and suddenly, an intense happiness washes over my brain. It’s almost like writing gets me high on words. And I don’t even have to be currently writing. My brain is just so full of words and worlds right now. Even though I’m not winning (and, let’s be honest, probably never will), NaNo definitely motivates me and helps me crank out those few words a day. Slowly but surely, I’m working my way through my manuscript rewrites, and it’s such a wonderful feeling! 

How does writing make you feel? Excited? Stressed? Or, if you’re not a writer, what is an activity that gets you high?