Wednesday Writers–Blackflies and Blueberries by Sharon Ledwith

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Blackflies and Blueberries, Catherine Castle's Wednesday Writers, Sharon Ledwith, YA Mystery, YA Paranormal

Sharon Ledwith is my Wednesday Writers guest today. She’s sharing her newest YA paranormal teen psychic mystery Blackflies and Blueberries–book 2 in the Mysterious Tales from Fairy Falls series.

Welcome, Sharon

 

The only witness left to testify against an unsolved crime in Fairy Falls isn’t a person…

City born and bred, Hart Stewart possesses the gift of psychometry—the psychic ability to discover facts about an event or person by touching inanimate objects associated with them. Since his mother’s death, seventeen-year-old Hart has endured homelessness, and has learned ways to keep his illiteracy under wraps. He eventually learns of a great-aunt living in Fairy Falls, and decides to leave the only life he’s ever known for an uncertain future.

Diana MacGregor lives in Fairy Falls. Her mother was a victim of a senseless murder. Only Diana’s unanswered questions and her grief keeps her going, until Hart finds her mother’s lost ring and becomes a witness to her murder.

Through Hart’s psychic power, Diana gains hope for justice. Their investigation leads them into the corrupt world threatening Fairy Falls. To secure the town’s future, Hart and Diana must join forces to uncover the shocking truth, or they risk losing the true essence of Fairy Falls forever.

AMAZON BUY LINK

 

Sharon Ledwith is the author of the middle-grade/YA time travel series, THE LAST TIMEKEEPERS, and the teen psychic mystery series, MYSTERIOUS TALES FROM FAIRY FALLS. When not writing, researching, or revising, she enjoys reading, exercising, anything arcane, and an occasional dram of scotch. Sharon lives a serene, yet busy life in a southern tourist region of Ontario, Canada, with her hubby, one spoiled yellow Labrador and a moody calico cat.

Learn more about Sharon Ledwith on her website and blog. Stay connected on Facebook and Twitter,Goodreads, and Smashwords. Look up her Amazon Author page for a list of current books. Be sure to check out THE LAST TIMEKEEPERS TIME TRAVEL SERIES Facebook page.

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Wednesday Writers Christmas Books–Christmas Angels by Nancy Naigle

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Catherine Castle's Wednesday Writers, Christmas Angels, Christmas reads, clean romance, Nancy Naigle

 

Welcome to Wednesday Writers. Christmas is coming and there’s nothing I like better during the holiday season than a good Christmas romance (or movie). So, on Wednesdays and Thursdays I’m filling out the year with a variety of Christmas romance book posts. On Fridays look for some free Christmas romance book promotions. Today’s offering is Christmas Angels, by Nancy Naigle. Welcome, Nancy!

 

 

Hey, y’all,

Nancy Naigle here. I write small-town love stories that are appropriate for any age readers. Calling all teenagers, moms and grandmas. You can all read CHRISTMAS ANGELS this holiday season. This novel is getting lots of great reviews. Liz and Matt are wonderful together, hurdling bad news and finding ways to bring Liz’s dream to life. The town of Antler Creek, and its quirky residents, will beckon you to visit. Too bad it’s a fictional place.

But one other character is getting attention too. Elvis. He’s Matt’s 90-pound six-month-old puppy. Named for his wiggling hips, that stub of a tail just never stops, and his right lip that gets hung up on his teeth in an adorable smirk of a smile. A little inside scoop…Elvis is based on my own dog, Sarge.

Actually, we call him Large Sarge, because this cute little Pyrenean Mastiff now weighs over 180-pounds. If you’re a dog-lover you are going to enjoy what Elvis brings to this story. He’ll leave puppy paws on your heart.

Hugs and happy holiday reading, Nancy

 

Christmas Angels

by Nancy Naigle

Growing up, Liz Westmoreland dreamed of taking over her grandparents’ inn located in the small mountain town of Antler Creek only for it to be sold before she ever got the chance. While browsing the internet, she stumbles upon a listing for what looks to be the picturesque inn and it’s set to go to auction. Liz places a bid, and by a miracle, wins the auction. But when she gets there, she finds the property in significant disrepair.

When Matt Hardy narrowly lost the inn and property that butted his land, he just hoped it wasn’t another city slicker coming to make matters worse after the previous owners gutted the place for an art gallery. But the minute he recognized the sweet, freckle-faced girl from his childhood and heard her plans to reopen the inn, he jumps at the chance to help his childhood crush restore a place where he made so many fond memories.

While working on repairs, Liz and Matt discover her grandmother’s collection of angels in one of the cabins. When the angels start mysteriously showing up all over the inn, she begins to look at them as reassurance—that restoring the inn is what she’s meant to do. But when an accident leaves Liz feeling like she made a mistake, will Matt—and the residents of Antler Creek—be able to show Liz that she’s found a home? And possibly true love as well?

 

Excerpt:

“I’ve been waiting for this my whole life. Angels Rest is practically mine.” Excitement forced Liz’s words out in a flurry. “So, how do I do this auction thing?”

“You don’t.” Her best friend Dan closed the top of the computer. “Not without going to see the condition of the house and checking to make sure you’re not also buying old liens against the place.”

“There’s no time. It goes up for auction in the morning. I’ve read through the FAQ’s; it doesn’t look that complicated. I need to get a proof of funds letter from my banker before I can bid though.”

“You’re going to bid on this place sight unseen? I have to advise against it, Liz. That’s just plain crazy.” Dan ran a hand through his hair. “You’re always talking about situations being a ‘sign’; well, maybe this is a sign that you should let this crazy idea go once and for all.”

“No. It’s not a sign to let it go. Finding out the day before Angels Rest goes up for auction is a sign it’s meant to be.” She scooted closer to him and opened the laptop again. “Look at these. The pictures don’t look so bad. Okay, so it’s overgrown, but that’s cosmetic.”

“Pictures can hide a multitude of problems. Very expensive ones, and the fact that there are only three pictures total is a red flag, especially since only one shows the house. The other is an aerial. You have no idea what it looks like inside.”

Liz wasn’t about to let her dream slip through her fingers. “It’s rustic. It’s a timber home, what could go wrong?”

 

About the Author:

USA Today bestselling author NANCY NAIGLE whips up small-town love stories with a dash of suspense and a whole lot of heart. Now happily retired, she devotes her time to writing, antiquing, and the occasional spa day with friends. A native of Virginia Beach, she currently calls North Carolina home.

 DOWNLOAD free book list with series order: https://www.nancynaigle.com/post/novels-by-nancy-naigle-checklist

 

Where can you get your copy today?

Amazon – https://amzn.to/2qY3Z7t

B&N – http://bit.ly/2N0QoEW

BAM! – http://bit.ly/2PqJ8E7

IndieBound – https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781250312624

iBooks – https://books.apple.com/us/book/christmas-angels/id1455108902

Kobo – https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/christmas-angels-7

Audio – https://adbl.co/2kN4Hlo

 

Social Media Links

Website and newsletter: http://www.nancynaigle.com/

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/NancyNaigleAuthor/

Twitter    https://twitter.com/nancynaigle

 

 

 

 

Wednesday Writers Christmas Books–Silent Knight by Joi Copeland

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Catherine Castle's Wednesday Writers, Christmas romances, clean romance, Joi Copeland, Silent Knight

Welcome to Wednesday Writers. Christmas is coming and there’s nothing I like better during the holiday season than a good Christmas romance (or movie). So, on Wednesdays and Thursdays I’m filling out the year with a variety of Christmas romance book posts. On Fridays look for some free Christmas romance book promotions. Today’s offering is Silent Knight, a Christian fiction story for women with a touch of romance, by Joi Copeland. She’s also offering a giveaway. Welcome, Joi!

Thanks, Catherine.

Do you have a bucket list? Things you want to do, places you want to go, and destinations you long to see? When I was in high school, a friend of mine was going to Germany. I was surprised because he hadn’t seen much of the United States. He had asked me where I would go in all the world, if I could. My response? MONTANA! Since that day, I’ve longed to see and experience Montana.

Fast forward 25 years. My family and I went on a two-month trip to raise support (we’re missionaries headed overseas to plant churches, build disciples of Christ, etc.) As the good Lord would have it, He opened the door for us to travel for three weeks to Montana! As we drove through Wyoming, my heart pounded with excitement, knowing in just a few hours, we would cross the border into Montana. I could hardly wait!

Visiting pastors and churches in Montana, meeting people, seeing the beauty of Montana did not disappoint. I loved Bozeman! I enjoyed driving through the mountains and hills, seeing God’s beauty of the Big Sky Country melted my heart and caused a deep love for one of my favorite states.

And so, Silent Knight was born. How could I not write about Montana, the place my heart longed to see for decades? How could I not write about a small-town community stmasembracing one of its own, even in the midst of trying to figure out how to do just that? Quite simply, I had to write about it. And I had to share a piece of my heart: the deaf community.

No, I’m not deaf, no one in my family was born deaf (though my brother in law was born partially deaf). My sister works with deaf students and some of the comments she’d heard from people broke my heart. Because the deaf are intelligent people. They have so much to share, if only they have a way to communicate with the outside world.

If you haven’t read Silent Knight, leave a comment on your favorite place to visit, and you’ll be entered in for the giveaway!

 

Silent Knight

By Joi Copeland

Struggling to take care of his deaf son in a town with no resources, Ethan Knight’s at the end of his rope. When his son is kicked out of preschool, he feels he’s out of options and prays for a miracle. A newcomer to Snow Globe, Montana may be his answer to prayer, or is it the possibility of an old love?

London Meriwether leaves her home after the passing of her grandmother, the woman who raised her. She falls in love with Snow Globe, Montana. Right after arriving to the small town, she comes face to face with her learning what it means to truly forgive someone.

Can Ethan help London in her quest of forgiveness? Will London be the help Ethan needs for his deaf son?

Excerpt:

Landon’s eyelids pulled open in a sleepy manner. His tear streaked face lit with a smile. Ethan’s heart lifted a notch. His son’s sweet smile and trusting eyes bore into his heart. No way would he send the joy of his life away to school. There had to be another way. He’d search high and low for an answer. God would just have to provide a miracle. He’d done it before. He could do it again.

Buy link for Silent Knight

About the Author:

Joi Copeland is married to a wonderful man, Chris, and has three amazing boys. She is living the dream in beautiful Denver, Colorado. Joi loves being a wife and mom and also enjoys spending time with friends over a good cup of coffee or tea. She’s been a Christian for over twenty years. God has called her and her family overseas, and she hopes to make her home in Ireland by 2019.

 

Joi’s Social media: http://www.joicopeland.com/ : Instagram: Facebook:

 

Wednesday Writers–When Valleys Bloom Again by Pat Jeanne Davis

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Catherine Castle's Wednesday Writers, excerpt from When Valleys Bloom Again, Pat Jeanne Davis, penicillin, When Valleys Bloom Again, WWII romance

Today Wednesday Writers welcomes author Pat Jeanne Davis to the blog. Pat will be sharing some research info that deepened her inspirational historical romance When Valleys Bloom Again. She also has an excerpt from the book for your reading pleasure. Welcome, Pat.

Thanks, Catherine.

While conducting research on penicillin for my novel, I came across fascinating information that added an element of depth to the story. I discovered a connection between my hero’s hometown and the production of this life-saving medicine.

In the partial scene below from When Valleys Bloom Again, our soldier, Jim Wright, awakens in strange surroundings with only a hazy memory of what happened to him. Gradually, it becomes apparent he has sustained a serious injury to his leg when he and his comrades came under heavy shell fire as they sheltered from German artillery. Jim, having scraped through that ordeal, now lies in a field hospital.

Jim and other allied soldiers who stormed the Normandy beaches on June 6, 1944, struggled through enemy lines. Thousands died instantly or were severely injured. The prospects of recovery and rehabilitation were greatly enhanced with the use of penicillin.

The history of penicillin ranges from its discovery in 1928 by the Scot, Alexander Fleming, and its subsequent development in the 1930’s by British scientists Howard Florey and Ernst Boris Chain to a laboratory in Pennsylvania’s Chester County, “the mushroom capital of the world,” where it so happens our hero Jim lived and worked prior to his enlistment in the US Army.

Granville Raymond Rettew, a Pennsylvania chemist and mycologist (expert in fungi), followed with interest the research carried out in Britain during the early 1940’s. The barrier to date was the difficulty of stabilizing the drug and producing it in sufficiently large quantities. Through his experiments Rettew demonstrated the antibiotic properties of ‘spawn’ extracted from the mushroom. Later, in collaboration with the American pharmaceutical industry he pioneered a method for the production of penicillin on a massive scale.

By D-Day millions of doses of the drug were made available for the treatment of Allied forces, saving many from infection, crippling injury, and death.

 

When Valleys Bloom Again

By Pat Jeanne Davis

As war approaches in 1939 Abby Stapleton’s safety is under threat. Her father, a British diplomat, insists she go back to America until the danger passes. Abby vows to return to her home in London—but where is home? With her family facing mortal danger so far away and feeling herself isolated, she finds it hard to pray or read the Bible. Did she leave God behind in war-torn London too? Abby becomes friendly with Jim, a gardener on her uncle’s estate.

 Jim can’t get Abby out of his mind. Did she have a sweetheart in England? Was it foolish to think she’d consider him? He curses his poverty and the disgrace of his father’s desertion and drunkenness haunts him. Can he learn to believe in love for a lifetime and to hope for a happy marriage?

 Abby couldn’t know the war would last a long time, nor that she would fall in love with Jim—soon to be drafted by the U.S. Army—or that she’d have to confront Henri, a rejected suitor, determined by his lies to ruin her reputation and destroy her faith in God’s providence. Will she discover the true meaning of home and find happiness with Jim?

Excerpt from When Valleys Bloom Again

July 4, 1944

An evacuation hospital in France

 Dreamlike, Jim hovered between upper and nether space. He lay there, disconnected from time, place and self, and forced his eyes open. Daylight filtered through the canvas sides of a tent, stabbing his eyeballs. He tried to sit up, his head hurt and his lower body ached to beat the band.

Boxes of various sizes stamped with a bright red cross and heaped in untidy fashion, lined one corner of the room. A tall, white metal cupboard, piled high with bandages, stood in the opposite corner. He fell back on the cot, catching the familiar sound of truck motors revving in the distance, their gearboxes clanking, and muffled voices barking instructions. Where was everyone?

His only memory was of taking shelter in a forester’s hut during a battle. Two men from his platoon were hunkered down with him, waiting for the barrage to cease. On the hill overlooking their position, they’d encountered a German battery in a grove of trees. He could still hear the thud … thud … thud, as shells sought their range, and feel the pressure waves that engorged the tiny space in which he was crouched, compressing his chest, driving out his breath with a double gut punch. The nauseating, blood-taste sensation as myriad sharp, heavy blows beat about his back and shoulders. And the searing pain in his legs, as though they were being sliced into a thousand pieces. He remembered screaming, his motions slowing, then nothing.

Again, he tried to sit up and do an examination of himself, prodding the thick bandage on his left arm. He touched his heavily wrapped head and groped around his upper body. His clumsy investigation served only to increase his anxiety. He dare not look down at his legs, afraid of what he might—or might not—find. What would the pain be like when the anesthetic wore off?

Want to read more? You can find When Valleys Bloom Again at Amazon

 

About the Author:

PAT JEANNE DAVIS lives in Philadelphia, Pa with her British-born husband, John. They have two grown sons. She enjoys flower gardening, genealogy research and traveling with her husband. Pat has published essays, short stories and articles online and in print. She has a keen interest in mid-twentieth-century American and British history, particularly the period of World War II. Pat’s father-in-law served in the British Eighth Army during the war. When Valleys Bloom Again is her debut historical romance set in that era. She is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers and the Historical Novel Society. Pat loves to hear from her readers. Subscribe to her newsletter here http://www.patjeannedavis.com/

Connect with Pat on her Website:  Facebook: Goodreads:

 

 

Wednesday Writers–Joan Deppa and her Season of Love series

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Autumn Discoveries, Catherine Castle's Wednesday Writers, exceprt from Whiter than Snow, inspirational romance for all ages, Joan Deppa, Seasons of Love, Summer Dreams, Upper Peninsual of Michigan, Whiter than Snow

Today I’m welcoming Joan Deppa to the blog. Joan will be talking about her Seasons of Love series and has included an excerpt of the first book in the series, Whiter than Snow, for your reading pleasure. Welcome, Joan.

 

Hi, my name is Joan Deppa. I have been a wife, mother and pastor’s wife for many years, but have started a new adventure.  I am now an author.  They say you should write about what you know, so that’s what I have done in my series, “Seasons of Love.”  When I came home from my dad’s funeral, and after a March snow storm that left everything white and clean, Whiter than Snow was born.  It’s based on some of my dad’s past, as well as my husband’s, his salvation experience and how it brought about the release of the pain and bitterness of his past, and then the wonderful results it brought. It takes place in the beautiful Upper Peninsula of Michigan, as that’s where we were living when I began writing it.  Throughout our ministry, we have counseled many people who have been hurt by the pain of divorce, as well as experienced it ourselves when my parents, as well as one of our sons went through a divorce.  It causes a lot of feelings of rejection, insecurities and fears that only Christ can heal, so that is the theme for my second book, Summer Dreams. I am currently writing the third book entitled, Autumn Discoveries. It will deal with the issue of high expectations that we, as well as others, place on us.

My books are for women of all ages, are a fun-read, inspirational and share wonderful sights and activities to enjoy in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

WHITER THAN SNOW

by Joan Deppa

Bonnie Turner has recently moved to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and is enamored by its beauty in the winter time. While enjoying the beauty, Brad Jorgenson “bumps” into her and takes it upon himself to show her the sights and how to enjoy Winter in the Upper Peninsula. But will Bonnie be able to show him how to release the anger and bitterness he’s carried since childhood and introduce him to the Creator of the beauty he enjoys? Can God’s love and forgiveness really make him, “whiter than snow?”

 

 

Excerpt of Whiter than Snow:

The snow was gently falling from the sky, kissing Bonnie’s face as she looked up. The snow covered the branches on the trees like a soft blanket and made a thick white carpet on the ground. It was a beautiful, winter wonderland. Bonnie loved being out in the woods on a day like this, just her, God, and nature.

“Hey, look out!” screamed a voice from behind Bonnie, but too late to stop her from landing on her backside as she tried to get out of the way. She looked around to find the person responsible for the outcry and saw that he also was on the ground with his skis pointing to the sky, ski poles on either side of him and his back toward her. But not for long. As he turned around, she knew he was very angry, and she braced herself to hear about the trouble she had caused.

“What do you think you’re doing, standing in the middle of the ski trail like that?” He reached to take off his skis and stood up.

“I’m sorry,” Bonnie said, as she awkwardly tried to get up. But the snow on the side of the trail was softer, and she was having a hard time in the deep snow.

Then a hand reached down to help her. As she looked up into his face, it looked less angry and more concerned for her welfare. “Here, let me help you up. Are you hurt anywhere?”

“No. Thankfully I had the snow to cushion my fall. How about you? Are you all right?”

“Yes, although I’m sure we’ll both have some bruises we didn’t have before. Don’t you know you’re not supposed to walk on the groomed trails? It ruins it for cross-country skiers, and coming down this hill it’s hard to stop. I didn’t see you until I came around that turn. What were you doing here?”

“I was enjoying the beautiful day, just like you…”

 

 

SUMMER DREAMS

April Phillips is a 6^th grade teacher who loves children but feels she should never marry due to the history of divorce in her family. So instead, she pursues her dream to learn to Kayak and buys an older house that she can make into the home of her dreams. However, Aaron Matthews has his own dreams – to marry April and have a family of their own. But first he needs to help her realize that God is able to break her chains of fear and give her a love that paddles through the storms and difficulties of life and thrives. Whose dreams will be realized? Can they both win?

 

 

About the Author:

My husband and I have been in church ministry for over 30 years and have counseled many hurting people. I have always loved to read and now write inspirational fiction, sharing God’s love, forgiveness, wisdom and ability to change lives yielded to Him, in a way that people can relate to. My hope is that my readers will find true joy, guidance and forgiveness in Christ from their past and present challenges in life. We have four adult children, eleven grandchildren and have lived mostly in the Midwest. We enjoy seeing all the beauty of God’s creation wherever we are, and I share some of our favorites in my stories. I am a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers.

Where to Buy My Books:

Books may be purchased through Amazon, Barnes & Noble or my website: http://www.joandeppa.com/.

Social Media sites:

Facebook – JoanDeppa

Twitter – @JoanDeppa

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Excerpts:

Summer Dreams:

WEdnesday Writers–Barbara M. Britton talks about Jerusalem Rising

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Barbara M. Britton, Biblical fiction, Catherine Castle's Wednesday Writers, Jerusalem Rising, Nehemiah

 

Today Wednesday Writers welcomes Barbara M. Britton back to the blog. Barb writes Biblical fiction and brings little known Bible characters to light in her Tribes of Israel series. Today she’ll be talking about some women who helped rebuild the wall around Jerusalem. Interesting info, I didn’t know, or remember. Welcome, Barb.

 

Wonder Women in Nehemiah’s Adventure

Thanks, Catherine.

I have taught the book of Nehemiah many times in Sunday School. My students stacked boxes to simulate Nehemiah and the Israelites restoring the wall around Jerusalem. What I missed during all those years of teaching, was that young women helped Nehemiah rebuild Jerusalem’s wall. Nehemiah 3:12 mentions the daughters of Shallum as construction workers. How did I miss this fact? We don’t know how many daughters Shallum had, or how they were named, but I bring Adah and her sister Judith to life in my novel Jerusalem Rising.

I also missed another woman who played a role in Nehemiah’s story. How did I overlook a prophetess? There aren’t many women prophets mentioned in the Bible. Ten women are named as having this title, and one is Noadiah from Nehemiah 6:14. Unfortunately, Noadiah is infamous. Nehemiah asks God to remember her, not for her help in building the wall, but for her shenanigans in trying to thwart Nehemiah’s success. Noadiah was called out for trying to intimidate Nehemiah. Why would a prophetess of God work against a man God had called to restore Jerusalem? We may never know this side of heaven.

Nehemiah faced foes inside the city of Jerusalem—like Noadiah—but he also faced foes from outside the city. Enemies abound in the book of Nehemiah and I enjoyed tying their journeys together in my latest novel.

How about you? Are you familiar with the story of Nehemiah, the daughters of Shallum, or the naughty prophetess Noadiah?

Jerusalem Rising

by Barbara M. Britton

When Adah bat Shallum finds the governor of Judah weeping over the crumbling wall of Jerusalem, she learns the reason for Nehemiah’s unexpected visit—God has called him to rebuild the wall around the City of David.

Nehemiah challenges the men of Jerusalem to labor on the wall and in return, the names of their fathers will be written in the annals for future generations to cherish. But Adah has one sister and no brothers. Should her father who rules a half-district of Jerusalem be forgotten forever?

Adah bravely vows to rebuild her city’s wall, though she soon discovers that Jerusalem not only has enemies outside of the city, but also within. Can Adah, her sister, and the men they love, honor God’s call? Or will their mission be crushed by the same rocks they hope to raise.

Excerpt:

“So that is why you came?” She shifted her lamp. “Not to collect taxes but to set up an office here and bring in workers to rebuild the wall?”

He nodded. “You found me inspecting the wall tonight. The City of David will be a stronghold again.” The shadows dancing on his face could not soften his stare, which bore into her gaze like a hammered tent peg. “This wall will rise and these gates will be secured. God has made it clear to me what we must do.”

She trusted God. Or at least she had before her mother’s eyesight darkened. A year ago she had prayed for a miracle from God for her mother. No healing came. And where was the rain? She had prayed for showers for the fields. Othniel had prayed. Her father had prayed. The soil remained parched. People went hungry. But if Nehemiah had truly heard God’s voice, perhaps Adonai was showing His favor to His people once again.

“When will the stone masons arrive?” She didn’t know much about resurrecting a wall, but the king had renowned craftsmen.

“King Artaxerxes gave me letters for safe passage and a leave from the palace. I have access to the forests in the south. But as for workers, those already living here will secure this city.”

Her shoulders sagged. “We have no army. The drought has left families without food and coin—

“Adah.” His address held a tone of chastisement. “Do you believe in God’s provision? In answered prayer?”

Want to read more?

“Jerusalem Rising: Adah’s Journey” is available on Amazon, B&N, and other on-line book stores.

 

About the Author:

Barbara M. Britton lives in Wisconsin and writes Christian Fiction for teens and adults. She has a nutrition degree from Baylor University but loves to dip healthy strawberries in chocolate. Barb brings little known Bible characters to light in her Tribes of Israel series. You can find out about Barb’s books on her website, or follow her on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads.

 

Wednesday Writers Welcomes Patricia Bond and Building A Christmas

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Building a Christmas, Catherine Castle's Wednesday Writers, Christmas romance, civil war romance, excerpt from Building a Christmas, Patricia Bond

Today I’m welcoming Patricia Bond to Wednesday Writers. Patricia will be talking about her historical Christmas romance novella set in the Civil War era, which deals with two tortured souls seeking inner peace after the Civil War work to build a life for themselves and the orphans they care for. They start by Building a Christmas. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this book is donated to a disabled American veterans’ organization, to help combat the effects of PTSD. Welcome, Patricia.

Thanks, Catherine.

Building a Christmas is one of those stories that brought itself to life. Aspects of it had been percolating for quite some time. A while back, we visited Gettysburg and happened upon re-enactment weekend. In talking to the actors, I found out there really was a sharpshooter unit from Pennsylvania, and they really did wear green coats – wool, no less! in July! – with dull brass buttons, and hid in the trees picking off the enemy during battle. With the direction the world was taking, it seemed we have never stopped warring somewhere. I found myself more and more concerned with refugees fleeing the wars in the Middle East, and realized this, along with PTSD, was nothing new. Civilians and military are both afflicted and have been since our earliest history as a species. I watched news stories of returning soldiers, of children displaced and orphaned, injured and scared, and knew I couldn’t let it go unaddressed, nor could I let it end without hope. And then… Jeb was born. And so was my story.

Building A Christmas

By Patricia Bond

Colonel Nathaniel Walker has been ravaged by the Civil War nearly as much as his country has. Now seeking the sanctuary of home, he hopes to find solace from the dreams haunting him most nights. Instead, he finds an orphanage for war orphans has sprung up next door. Now, his guilt has faces – fourteen of them. And the woman who cares for them. Melanie Treymont exhibits more courage under fire than any soldier he’s ever seen. Is she the one who can help him rebuild his life and finally put his demons to rest?

Melanie Treymont hopes to make amends for her dead husband’s actions by taking in war orphans. But facing eviction, she may have to give up her plans of building a life for them. Unexpected help comes from her neighbor, Colonel Walker, who steps up to the challenge, despite fighting his own inner battles.

These two tortured souls unite for the children, working to build a life for them as well as themselves. They start by “Building a Christmas.”

 

Book excerpt:

He narrowed his eyes trying to see clearly through the night. One of the fenceposts was sorely misshapen. As he edged closer, Nathaniel could see it was not a fence post at all, but a human.

A woman. She seemed to be shaking.

The cold, no doubt, although why in the hell didn’t she just go inside if she was that cold? The thought occurred that perhaps she had no home, in which case, he decided, he would offer her the barn and a blanket.

He approached her and realized it was Miss Treymont. What the devil was she doing here?

He was about to speak, ask her that very question when he heard the sob. He stopped in his tracks. Crying women were not his strong suit. He’d had more than his share of them in the war.

And yet. . .

There was something so forlorn, so lost and full of despair about her. She needed someone to comfort her, someone to understand her.

Someone that wasn’t him.

He wanted to turn back. She hadn’t heard him yet, would never know he’d been there. So why wouldn’t his feet obey him?

He kept coming closer, finally stood directly behind her. His hands crept up of their own volition, soothing over her arms. He’d expected her to startle. Instead, her hand inched over to cover his in silent supplication.

Nathaniel turned her around, drew her into his embrace. She moved closer, put her hands and her head on his chest. His arms wound around her, hands stroking her back as she cried into his jacket. He closed his eyes briefly, feeling her warmth and softness and laid his cheek on her head. Instinct overcame caution and he softly kissed her hair.

They stood a long time until her sobs finally subsided. Feeling her control returning, Nathaniel reluctantly let her go. He gazed down into her eyes, tears still sparkling like the new-fallen snow, and wiped away the last trace of wetness from her cheek. In utter silence, they looked at each other then slowly turned away, each to return to their own home.

As Nathaniel crossed the field, he paused and looked back at her. She walked as though caught in thick swamp water, her movements slow, dragging. It seemed it took all her energy to simply put one foot in front of the other.

He knew the feeling well and he felt an unfamiliar emotion unfurl in his chest. After weeks and months of ruthlessly eradicating all traces of it, he thought, he realized he was feeling sympathy.

Sympathy for this twin soul of despair he’d just held in his arms.

 

About the author:

Books, history, hooped skirts and happily ever after. These are author Patricia Bond’s favorite things she weaves into stories. Add in a dashing hero, an intrepid heroine, and you’ve got her recipe for a historical romance.

Taking advantage of America’s rich history and incredible landscape, her settings have run from the Great Lakes, to rural Pennsylvania, to Baltimore/Washington and the Chesapeake Bay, and lately, the south of France.

Wife, mother, and grandmother, she loves retirement and living near the Great Lakes where she indulges her other passions besides writing. An award-winning amateur photographer, Reiki practitioner, and guild knitter, you may find her at the lakeshore, notebook in hand and camera beside her, drawing inspiration from her amazing surroundings. She may even invite you to pull up a rock and join her.

Patricia’s latest work (unpublished at this time) is a contemporary romance that has just placed 2nd in the Pages From the Heart contest.

You may contact Patricia at: http://www.patricia-bond.com/   Find buy links for this and all her other books on her website.

 

 

 

Wednesday Writers Welcomes Leeann Betts–Coffee Shop Inspiration

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Catherine Castle's Wednesday Writers, Christmas romance, finding inspiration, In Search of Christmas Past, Leeann Betts

Coffee Shop Inspiration

By Leeann Betts

I’m sitting in a coffee shop trying to figure out what to write about this month. All around me are people sipping java or tea, munching bagels, meeting friends, talking on phones—and it hits me.

I am looking in at the goldfish bowl.

For example, already today I eavesdropped on three friends who meet every two months to discuss a book, like a mini book club. While I couldn’t see the title of the one they are reading, it seemed to be full of witticisms, observations, and helpful insights. For example, one was about Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived. He married 1,000 women, which were his downfall. So if a man doesn’t marry 1,000 women, he’ll already be smarter than the wisest man who ever lived.

Later there was a table of older women gathering tables from near and far, even settling for round tables, to get enough seating for their group of about 20 women. Along comes one woman with a little girl, maybe about 4 or so. And I got to wondering if this older woman was the grandmother—or the mother. And plot ideas sprang forth immediately.

A few days ago, at a table nearby, sat a middle eastern man and two women. Sometimes they spoke in English, sometimes in another language that sounded Arabic. Sometimes they mixed their sentences together, using English words in the middle of a sentence with this other language. For example, I heard the word ‘embassy’ and ‘must be careful’ in the midst of other words I couldn’t understand. Got me thinking about a suspense plot.

Every Monday when I am here, there is a woman sitting nearby who is a counselor of some kind. I’ve heard her talking to a client on the phone about an issue the client was going through. Not details, but I saw this counselor’s demeanor change from the way she looked when she was typing on her laptop—doing right-brain work—to the way her face softened and her posture relaxed as she talked to her client—left-brain work. She’d make a good character where I could show both sides of her at work.

Right now there is a couple sitting next to me who are speaking Chinese, perhaps. I don’t understand a word they are saying, but they’ve been very animated at times, voices raised, hand gestures, smiles. Are they planning a business move? To buy a house? Get a cat? Have another child in contravention of China’s one-child law? What if one of the couple wants to return to China, but the other doesn’t? Will that impact their decision?

Sitting in a coffee shop may sound like a waste of time. Usually I come here just to get away from the laundry or to meet fellow writers. But perhaps I need this unique stimulation to get the old grey cells, as Hercule Poirot would say, working.

Do you write in a setting other than your home or office? If so, where? How often? And why?

About In Search of Christmas Past:

Grace Bellows, a senior in college, receives a Christmas card one month after her grandmother’s death, where her beloved Grammie challenges her to an old-fashioned scavenger hunt. Raised by her grandmother after her parents’ death in a car accident when she was eight, Grace has lived a jetsetter lifestyle with her wealthy grandmother. Now all she wants is to settle down and have a normal life.

Luke Fisher manages his family’s Christmas tree farm out of a sense of loyalty to his deceased mother because she gave up her dreams of being an attorney. He doesn’t want to live with any regrets, and longs to escape the confines of loyalty to live a life of adventure in the real world.

Can Grace and Luke solve the clues in her grandmother’s scavenger hunt and uncover the truth about their real feelings, or will the tension and their differences in goals and faith drive them apart?

 

 

About the Author:

Leeann Betts writes contemporary suspense, while her real-life persona, Donna Schlachter, pens historical suspense. She has released six titles in her cozy mystery series, By the Numbers, with Petty Cash releasing in December. In addition, Leeann has written a devotional for accountants, bookkeepers, and financial folk, Counting the Days, and with her real-life persona, Donna Schlachter, has published a book on writing, Nuggets of Writing Gold, a compilation of essays, articles, and exercises on the craft. She publishes a free quarterly newsletter that includes a book review and articles on writing and books of interest to readers and writers. You can subscribe at http://www.leeannbetts.com/ or follow Leeann at http://www.allbettsareoff.wordpress.com/ All books are available on Amazon.com in digital and print, and at Smashwords.com in digital format.

 

Website: http://www.leeannbetts.com/ Receive a free ebook just for signing up for our quarterly newsletter.

Blog: http://www.allbettsareoff.wordpress.com/

Facebook: http://bit.ly/1pQSOqV

Twitter: http://bit.ly/1qmqvB6

Books: Amazon http://amzn.to/2dHfgCE and Smashwords: http://bit.ly/2z5ecP8

 

 

Wednesday Writers Welcomes Lynne Tagawa

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A Twisted Strand, Catherine Castle's Wednesday Writers, gospel and restoration novel, Lynne Tagawa, science medical novel, story of faith and second chances, Wednesday Writers Welcomes Lynne Tagawa

Today’s guest on Wednesday Writers is Lynne Tagawa talking about her debut A Twisted Strand, a science/medical novel with a twist of gospel and restoration. Welcome Lynne!

Thanks, Catherine.

My debut novel began life as a question: what would happen if a genetically engineered virus were let loose in my neighborhood? Let’s say twenty miles south of San Antonio, in a field with a cow. And the virus affects the animal—but will it also affect people?

But of course, I needed people in the story, and since it’s a science kind of story, I picked a nurse who works for an epidemiologist, and her ex-husband, a gastroenterologist.

“What is Dr. Stuart again?”

“An epidemiologist.” She pronounced it slowly, eyes on the road. Gripping the steering wheel with clammy hands, she forced herself to sound calm. “I’m going to call him when we get to Uncle Don’s.”

“Epi-demi-ologist,” Jason repeated. “You told me he researches diseases, right?”

“Yes.” Rachel decided not to tell him about the Ebola symposium her boss had just attended. Don would call it “need to know.” Or was that the CIA? Don was FBI. Wouldn’t it be the same?

I’m the daughter of a nurse and a biology teacher, but I knew I was stretching it when I included the gastro doc, so I asked a doctor to look at my manuscript. Just to make sure. Here’s a scene from the ICU:

Andy was snoring, the faint rumble penetrating the plastic sheeting around the bed. Will poured a cup of coffee and thought about what he had just read online. A new treatment for Ebola. Dr. Stuart would know about it. Good grief. He felt like a soldier thrown into battle without any weapons. Could they get some of this new drug on short notice? And would it work on this engineered virus?

Out of nowhere, Rachel’s face filled his mind. Will blew into his hot coffee, trying to cool it. She was so cold toward him. Could he blame her? But now, thinking about this disease, his insides would seize up at random moments.

Rachel discovered the carcass first. Could she be infected? Will wanted to stop his thoughts, put on his professional physician’s persona and just function. But it was getting harder and harder to do.

Unlike some science/ medical stories, the real story isn’t the science, although I worked hard to make it both accurate and believable. It’s about a broken family restored by the gospel. If you read it, I hope you are blessed!

                                   A Twisted Strand

 Rachel Davis owns a small homestead south of San Antonio, where she hopes to heal after her recent divorce. A nurse, she works as a research assistant for an epidemiologist in town. One day, she and the kids discover to their horror that their Jersey heifer is dead—killed by a strange virus stalking South Texas cattle. But is it a natural pathogen—or bioterrorism?

Dr. William Davis has made a terrible mistake. His brief affair has cost him his family, apart from occasional visits to his children. He does his best to be a good father, but decides he will never grovel to win back his wife. A strange disease of cattle might also affect humans. When a vet is hospitalized with symptoms, Will enters the battle.

Estranged from God and from each other, both Will and Rachel encounter the truth of the gospel and struggle to make sense of it all. The law of God seems to condemn them both. Is there hope? And is there hope for their relationship?

 

About the Author:

Lynne Tagawa is an educator, writer, and editor. Author of Sam Houston’s Republic, a history curriculum written like a novel, she is feeling her way into true fiction with the help of fellow writers. She lives in San Antonio with her husband and four sons.

A Twisted Strand will be available in August on kindle and paperback. Also, check out her website: www.lynnetagawa.com

Buy link:https://www.amazon.com/Lynne-Basham Tagawa/e/B00AJR7TRG/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0