Showing posts with label ACFW. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ACFW. Show all posts

Thursday, January 5, 2017

ACFW January 2017 New Releases

More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website.

Contemporary Romance:

Romance

Grows in Arcadia Valley
by Valerie Comer, Mary Jane Hathaway, Elizabeth Maddrey, Danica Favorite, Lee Tobin McClain and Annalisa Daughety
-- Is love possible for a makeshift mom and a handsome widower? What about a bed and breakfast owner and the farmer next door? A curvy jilted bride and a mysterious, handsome chef? Then there's the real estate consultant and the grandson of her elderly client; a high-powered lawyer and a woman farmer, and a formerly engaged couple. Can love make a difference in their lives? Exploring food, friends, and family in Arcadia Valley, each of these novellas kicks off a three-book series, intertwined with the works of the other authors. This collection is only the beginning of your adventure! (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Restoring Love by Jennifer Slattery
-- Mitch, a contractor and house-flipper, is restoring a beautiful old house in an idyllic Midwestern neighborhood. Angela, a woman filled with regrets and recently transplanted to his area, is anything but idyllic. As Mitch struggles to keep his business afloat, and Angela works to correct the mistakes of her past, these two unlikely friends discover they have something unexpected in common--a young mom fighting to give her children a better life after her husband's incarceration. While both Mitch and Angela are drawn to help this young mother survive, they also find themselves drawn to each other. Will a lifetime of regrets hold them back from redemption and true love? (Contemporary Romance from New Hope Publishers)

Historical Mystery:

Murder on the Moor by Julianna Deering
-- Drew and Madeline Farthering visit the Yorkshire moor to catch a killer and solve a mystery that involves an old feud, a new rivalry and a huge, spectral hound that may or may not be a harbinger of death. (Historical Mystery from Bethany House [Baker])

Historical Romance:

A Note Yet Unsung by Tamera Alexander
-- A master violinist trained in Vienna, Rebekah Carrington manages to get an audition at the newly-formed Nashville Philharmonic. But the conductor--determined to leave his mark on the world of classical music--bows to public opinion. Women are "far too fragile and frail" for the rigors of an orchestra, he says, and Rebekah's hopes are swiftly dashed. Nathaniel Tate Whitcomb is Nashville's new orchestra leader. And despite a reluctant muse--and a strange buzzing and recurring pain in his head--he must finish composing his symphony before the new opera hall opens. But far more pressing, he must finish it for his dying father, who inspired his love of music. Then Tate's ailment worsens. Rebekah can help him finish his symphony. But how do you win back a woman's trust when you've robbed her of her dream? (Historical Romance from Bethany House [Baker])

The American Heiress Brides Collection by Lisa Carter, Mary Eileen Davis, Susanne Dietze, Anita Mae Draper, Patty Smith Hall, Cynthia Hickey, Lisa Karon Richardson, Lynette Sowell and Kimberley Woodhouse
-- Meet nine young women in America between 1880 and 1911 who have been blessed by fortunes made in gold, silver, industry, ranching, and banking. But when it comes to love, each woman struggles to find true love within a society where "first comes money, second comes marriage." What kind of man can they trust with their greatest treasure—their hearts? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

Two Suitors for Anna by Molly Jebber
-- In 1903 Ohio, a young Amish woman must choose between the life she has long planned for with her beloved Noah Schwartz, and a new, very different future... But Noah has a surprise for Anna: once they're married, he wants them to travel and live in other communities. Anna, who loves her home and her job at the quilt shop, is distraught when he takes her hesitation as rejection—and leaves. Daniel Bontrager's arrival adds to Anna's confusion. Since taking over his late brother's farm, the handsome roofer has offered friendship and gentle attentions. Yet the pull of first love is strong and deep, especially when Noah returns. Through each revelation, Anna must search her faith for guidance, knowing she is choosing not just a husband, but a life to nurture and to share... (Historical Romance from Kensington)

My Heart Belongs in Fort Bliss, Texas by Erica Vetsch
-- Journey to Fort Bliss, Texas, where a battle of emotions versus ideals is about to be waged. When a high-steppin' eastern fashion artist, Priscilla Hutchens, swoops down on the fort to gain custody of her twin niece and nephew she is met with resistance by their uncle, post surgeon Major Elliot Ryder, who thinks he knows what is best for them. Who will win the battle? Or will a truce be called for the sake of love and family? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

Romantic Suspense:

Dead Run by Jodie Bailey
-- Kristin James's morning run turns deadly when she's attacked by a stranger who's after something her deceased soldier brother stole overseas. Her neighbor Sergeant First Class Lucas Murphy steps in to help her and won't let her brush the attack under the rug. He'll do everything he can to keep Kristin alive, but he can't tell her that he's under orders to investigate her link to her brother's misdeeds. Kristin has no idea what the bad guy is after and doesn't want to believe that her brother wasn't on the straight and narrow. But as evidence against him piles up, can they catch the criminals without becoming the next casualties? (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Justice Delayed by Patricia Bradley
-- It's been eighteen years since TV crime reporter Andi Hollister's sister was murdered. The confessed killer is behind bars, and the execution date is looming. But when a letter surfaces stating that the condemned killer didn't actually do it, Detective Will Kincaide of the Memphis Cold Case Unit will stop at nothing to help Andi get to the bottom of it. After all, the person who confessed to the crime is Will's cousin. They have less than a week to find the real killer before the wrong person is executed. But much can be accomplished in one week--including uncovering police corruption, running for your life, and falling in love. (Romantic Suspense from Revell [Baker])

Undercover Protector by Elizabeth Goddard
-- Undercover at a tiger sanctuary, Special Agent Grayson Wilde is convinced the owner's involved in a wildlife trafficking ring--until someone tries to kill her. Gemma's determined to rebuild the tiger oasis she lost when her family died, but someone wants her out of the way, and she's starting to wonder if her parents' and uncle's deaths were really accidental. Grayson says he'll do anything to protect Gemma, but she can't shake the feeling that her alluring new volunteer might not be all that he
seems. With a vicious criminal closing in, though, she has to trust Grayson...because she won't survive without him. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Buried Memories by Carol J. Post
-- A soldier hero suffering from PTSD and a young woman struggling to overcome a traumatic childhood fight for their lives and find healing together. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Still Life by Dani Pettrey
-- Blacklisted in the photography business over a controversial shot, Avery Tate answered an ad for a crime scene photographer. She expected to be laughed at, but crime scene analyst Parker Mitchell hired her outright--and changed her life. But six months ago, when her feelings for Parker became too strong, she left his employ to sort out her heart. Now, for the first time, Avery is facing the world that rejected her to attend the gallery opening of a photography exhibit and support her best friend, who modeled for the show. But the only image of her friend is a chilling photo of her posing as if dead--and the photographer insists he didn't take the shot. Worse, her friend can't be found. She immediately calls Parker for help. As Avery, Parker, and his friends in law enforcement dig into the mystery, they find themselves face-to-face with a relentless and deadly threat. (Romantic Suspense from Bethany House [Baker])

Supernatural Thriller:

Fatal Accusation by Rachel Dylan
-- Attorney Olivia Murray hopes her life in Windy Ridge will get back to normal after a hard-fought trial. But she soon finds out that the forces of evil have not given up. An embezzling scandal rocks the community church to its core. The New Age groups are ready to declare victory when a high-profile prosecutor files criminal charges against the local pastor. However, Olivia is not willing to give up on the community she's come to love. She takes on the defense pro bono knowing it could destroy her career, but it's a case she is called to defend. The battle will be fierce, but she's not fighting it alone. Her friend and fellow attorney Grant Baxter is by her side Olivia must use all the tools in her arsenal to combat those who seek to destroy the believers in the community. If Olivia can't prove the pastor's innocence, more than her career is on the line. The entire community of Windy Ridge could fall to the forces of darkness. (Supernatural Thriller, Independently Published)


Award-winning author, born-n-raised Texan, and member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Crystal L Barnes is the culprit behind the Marriage & Mayhem series and more. Accused of being quite the character at times, Crystal has performed in several plays, loves to sing Southern Gospel, and contributes to her church's worship team on a regular basis. When she's not writing, reading, or singing, Crystal enjoys exploring on road-trips, spending time with family, and watching old movies/sitcoms. I Love Lucy and Little House on the Prairie are two of her favorites. Find out more and connect with Crystal at www.crystal-barnes.com.

Thursday, November 3, 2016

November 2016 New Releases

Howdy, y'all! Here's some more titles to add to your TBR list for the month! Happy Reading!

More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website.


Biblical:

Slender Reeds: Jochebed's Hope by Texie Susan Gregory -- In a deadly race to save her son, a young slave woman dares defy the most powerful man in the world. (Biblical from Barbour Publishing)


Historical:

Beneath a Golden Veil by Melanie Dobson -- As elegant as the Sacramento residence she operates, Isabelle Labrie keeps her past concealed, like the treasure she hides under the Golden Hotel. Then, unexpected guests—fugitive slaves seeking safe passage to the North—force her to confront her past and reconsider her path. (Historical from Waterfall Press)

Forest Child by Heather Day Gilbert -- Historically based on the Icelandic Sagas, Forest Child brings the memorable, conflicted persona of Freydis Eiriksdottir to life. (Historical from Elk Lake Publishing Inc.)

The Lost Generation by Erica Marie Hogan -- On August 5th 1914, the world changed forever. For John and Beth Young, it meant the happiness they finally achieved was snatched out from under them. For Emma Cote, it meant that her husband Jared would do his duty, despite her feelings. For Christy Simmons it meant an uncertain future with the boy she loved. The lives of six people, spread across the British Empire to America were changed forever. (Historical from Elk Lake Publishing Inc.)


Historical Romance:

The Blue Ribbon Brides Collection by Jennifer AlLee, Angela Breidenbach, Darlene Franklin, Cynthia Hickey, Carrie Fancett Pagels, Amber Stockton, Niki Turner, Gina Welborn, and Becca Whitham -- Meet nine men and women whose competitive goals take them to state and county fairs between 1889 and 1930. From baking pie to polishing pigs, from sculpting butter to stitching quilts, everyone has something to prove to themselves and their communities. But in going for the blue ribbon, will nine women miss the greatest prize of all—the devoted heart of a godly man? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

Left at the Altar by Margaret Brownley -- In the wild and untamed West, time is set by the local jeweler...but Two-Time Texas has two: two feuding jewelers and two wildly conflicting time zones. Meg Lockwood's marriage was supposed to unite the families and finally bring peace until she's left at the altar by her no-good fiancé. Hired to defend the groom against a breach of promise lawsuit, Grant Garrison quickly realizes that the only thing worse than small-town trouble is falling for the jilted bride. But there's something about Meg's sweet smile and determined grit that draws him in...even as the whole crazy town seems set on keeping them apart. (Historical Romance from Sourcebooks)

Mail Order Mommy by Christine Johnson -- Nursing a broken heart, Amanda Porter had answered a frontier mail-order bride ad placed by Garrett Decker's children—only to find the groom-to-be didn't want a wife. But his adorable children are determined she'll be their mother by Christmas… His wife's betrayal and tragic death demolished Garrett's life. Now he can't even look at another woman, let alone marry Amanda, who resembles his first love. But with his daughter convinced Amanda is the perfect mother, will Garrett realize she's also his perfect match? (Historical Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Hope's Design by Dawn Kinzer -- An independent city girl aspiring to be a fashion designer falls for a stubborn artist from the country who wants to keep his talent a secret. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

Brides of Wyoming by S. Dionne Moore -- Roam the Wyoming range alongside three couples who meet under danger from bands of outlaws. Renee escapes a gang of outlaws and lands in the arms of a sheepherder. Olivia’s sleuthing upturns secrets key to solving the murder of a reluctant rancher’s father. Maira is trying to keep her ranch running alone when a drifting cowboy offers a hand. Can love develop where suspicion and greed roam the range? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

The Negotiated Marriage by Christina Rich -- When the railroad pushes to buy her land, orphaned Cameron Sims will do anything to keep the only home she and her sisters have ever known. Even if she must marry a stranger. Duncan Murray doesn’t want a wife. He wants Sims Creek, a sanctuary that can help him forget a troubled childhood. But his reluctant, and captivating, bride-to-be is key to making his dreams a reality. And despite their business arrangement, Camy and Duncan might be signing on the dotted line for true love… (Historical Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Love in the Seams by Jodie Wolfe -- A little girl on a quest for a new mama has the local seamstress in her sights. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)


Contemporary Romance:


Crazy Woman Christmas by Renee Blare -- A quiet cowboy whisks Bianca to his ranch to ride out the Christmas blizzard where she discovers life is cold but also beautiful in the “Cowboy” state. (Contemporary Romance from Inspired [Prism Book Group])

Other Than a Halo by Valerie Comer -- Even though she’s a new woman in Christ, single mom Bren Haddock was no angel as a teen. Now managing the Hiller Farm for a CSA, life is good until a friend offers to enter her daughter into the Little Miss Snowflake Pageant. Old insecurities flare when she meets the intriguing head of marketing the pageant. Rob Santoro isn’t so sure about handling the pageant portfolio until he meets Bren. Soon he’s fallen for her and her two kids. When a Thanksgiving adventure goes awry, he’s left wondering how to love a woman who refuses to be loved. What will it take for Bren to retire her tarnished halo and move into the future God has for her? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Do You Know What I Know? by Becky Melby -- What if a phone call from the obstetrician’s office went to the wrong person? Elizabeth Schmidt can’t figure out why her husband doesn’t seem excited about the news she’s sure he heard. Is he unhappy? Or is James cheating on her? Pastor Jay Davidson is in shock. Bethany Schmidt, the woman he’s in love with, is pregnant. Should he walk away, or is God asking him to play the part of Joseph in real life and not just in the church Christmas program? Bethany can’t figure out why Jay is acting so weird. Has he figured out one of the two secrets she’s keeping until after Christmas? Can a ponytailed itinerant carpenter with a pet chicken help unravel the confusion? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

How to Charm a Beekeeper's Heart by Candice Sue Patterson -- Weddings are the last thing beekeeper Huck Anderson wants to be associated with, considering his past. So when he inherits a building occupied by a bridal boutique, he aims to evict the failing business and open a sporting goods store. That is until his tenant ends up being Arianne Winters, a woman he’s indebted to from a mistake made years ago. When a life-threatening injury derails Huck entirely, Arianne offers to aid in his lengthy recovery if he’ll allow her to remain in his building. But nursing her adversary proves challenging when her adolescent crush resurfaces. (Contemporary Romance from White Rose Publishing [Pelican])

A Portrait of Emily Price by Katherine Reay -- After a whirlwind romance and marriage, Emily Price returns home to Italy with her new husband and learns that life at its richest is only found when she accepts its chaotic beauty. (Contemporary Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing [Thomas Nelson and Zondervan])



Contemporary Women's Fiction:

Forgiveness by Marianne Evans -- Country music bad boy, Chase Bradington is on the comeback trail. Fresh from rehab for alcohol addiction and transformed by the power of Christ, Chase is battling to rediscover the music he loves and a career he nearly ruined. Then he meets up-and-comer, Pyper Brock and instantly sparks ignite. Despite her rampant attraction to the handsome and talented icon, Pyper knows of Chase’s reputation and soundly dismisses his romantic overtures. No way will Pyper repeat the mistake of trusting a man whose done battle with the bottle. Can a sin-damaged past be released in favor of forgiveness? (Women’s Fiction from Harbourlight Books [Pelican])



Romantic Suspense:

His Perfect Love by Sharon K. Connell -- On the run from a hit man, Patricia Campbell is unaware of the FBI’s search for her to learn what information she might hold, so she continues to hide out. Then she meets a persistent computer technician, a charming philanthropist, and a handsome, wealthy businessman who wants to marry her. But her fears resurface, and she wonders if she can trust any of them. Can she survive long enough to find peace…and perfect love? (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)

Counter Point by Marji Laine -- Her dad's gone, her diner's closing, and her car's in the lake. Cat McPherson has nothing left to lose ... except her life. And a madman, bent on revenge, is determined to take that, as well. Her former boyfriend, Ray Alexander, returns as a hero from his foreign mission, bringing back souvenirs in the form of death-threats. When several attempts are made on Cat’s life, she must find a way to trust Ray, the man who broke her heart. (Romantic Suspense from Write Integrity Press)


Speculative:

The Flaming Sword by Heather L.L. FitzGerald -- When evil joins forces in the Tethered World, Sadie Larcen must risk all to protect the Flaming Sword and her family...even if it takes her life. (Speculative Young Adult from Mountain Brook Ink)





Tuesday, December 1, 2015

I Heard The Bells on Christmas Day +giveaway!


It's Christmas 1863, the American Civil war rages and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow sits alone, contemplating the last couple years. Summer 1961 his wife's dress caught on fire and she died the next morning. He sustained burns trying to put out the flames (bad enough for him to give up shaving and begin the use of Laudanum.) After seven years of courting Frances Appleton and about eighteen years of marriage, he was devastated by his loss.

Now, he's just received news that his son has been badly wounded in battle.

So he sits down and writes a poem.

"I heard the bells on Christmas Day
Their old, familiar carols play,
and wild and sweet
The words repeat
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!
And thought how, as the day had come,
The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along
The unbroken song
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!
Till ringing, singing on its way,
The world revolved from night to day,
A voice, a chime,
A chant sublime
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!
Then from each black, accursed mouth
The cannon thundered in the South,
And with the sound
The carols drowned
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!
It was as if an earthquake rent
The hearth-stones of a continent,
And made forlorn
The households born
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!
And in despair I bowed my head;
"There is no peace on earth," I said;
"For hate is strong,
And mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!"
Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
"God is not dead, nor doth He sleep;
The Wrong shall fail,
The Right prevail,
With peace on earth, good-will to men."
This poem has since become a very beloved hymn -- one of my favorites -- and the inspiration for a story that won the ACFW Virginia chapter's short story contest. I Heard the Bells is included in the anthology A Bit of Christmas. 

Virginia, December 1864

Three years ago, Gabriel Morgan left his home in Virginia to fight for the Union army, despite his family and his fiancĂ©e’s loyalties to the South. Now, with battle fresh in his mind, and the war still raging, he chances a quick trip home with one prayer…to make peace this Christmas.
Now available at Amazon!


What is one of your favorite "traditional" Christmas poems or Carols? Or, if you love this song as much as me, which is your favorite version? 

Leave a comment for a chance to win a e-book edition of A Bit of Christmas! And if you don't have any luck today, join me on Facebook for more chances to win copies of this book every day this week. :)

Monday, June 15, 2015

A Gentleman of America's Game


A little on the history of one of the greatest - maybe THE greatest pitcher of all time. Well, I do love Nolan Ryan, and he did break one of Mister Johnson’s records. 

     The elder struck out 3,508 batters, and that record held until 1983 when our Texas Ranger beat it. I still remember cheering for Mister Nolan that season.

     Some researching is so much fun! See, I’m so blessed to be the wife of not only the kindest and most honorable man I know, but the wisest, too. My husband’s brain just amazes me, and he turned me on to Walter Johnson when we started discussing plans for a baseball story. He coached all our 3 sons and all but two of our eight grandsons, too, so we've lived many a summer at the ballpark.


     On the right is from 1983, when my sons played: Baby Russell, Cathryn, Matt and Greg, plus Ron and I, of course.
     And on the left, 2009 with the four grandsons God saw fit to give us to rear :) A second set of Matt & Greg (Matthew and Gregory to help keep things straight) with Christian and Benjamen--plus my beloved and me. The man in the black shirt on left is my firstborn, Matthew, the one in glasses on the right. Family so easily distracts, don't they? Who doesn't love sharing their families?

     Back to Walter Johnson!I found this quote the renowned pitcher said of himself: "I was the greenest rookie that ever was. One evening I was standing out on the sidewalk when a stranger approached and said, 'You're famous already, kid. See, they've named a hotel for you.' I looked across the street and, sure enough, there was a big illuminated sign that read, 'Johnson Hotel.'   Well, do you know that I was so green that I actually believed the man?"
   
     I love humble and chose him to be my hero’s great-great uncle in my new contemporary baseball-backdrop romance, One and Done. Matter of fact, his Pappaw named him after the family ancestor and the Babe, too, because he didn’t know if his grandson would be a hurler or a hitter. George Herman Walter Johnson proved a big name to grow into for Jidge.
   
Wary over leaving his farm home for the big city, the nineteen-year-old Johnson, joined the American League playing for the Washington Senators in 1907 and began gaining fame right away for his pitching. "There’s only one way to time Johnson’s fastball. When you see the arm start forward-swing," Birdie McCree, an executive of the New York Highlanders, claimed in 1908.
     And it didn’t take Ty Cobb, a Detroit Tiger, long at all to recognize the remarkable talent of the pitcher nicknamed 'Sir Walter' and the 'White Knight' for his legendary good sportsmanship and gentlemanly ways. Mister Cobb said, “The first time I faced him, I watched him take that easy windup – and then something went past me that made me flinch. I hardly saw the pitch, but I heard it. Every one of us knew we’d met the most powerful arm ever turned loose in a ballpark.”
     Regularly honored with the All-Star and Most Valuable Player Awards during the first seventeen years of his career, Mister Walter finally took the Senators to the Word Series in 1924, and with President and First Lady Coolidge in the stands, beat the Giants 4-3. Johnson’s mother, Minnie, attended, too, her very first major league ballgame. All accounts say he doted on her.
   

     The Senators went back once to the series, but lost, and The Big Train, another moniker given him because of his size, six-foot-four, and velocity of his throws (no radar back then). Johnson retired in 1927 after a twenty-one-year career with 416 wins in the record books, 110 of them shut outs, the strikeouts mentioned, and a 2.17 ERA.
     He came back two years later as manager of the Senators, but that didn't last long. In honor of his contributions to the game of baseball, Johnson was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1936 with Ty Cobb and Babe Ruth, three years after the All-Star break was instituted.
   
     And speaking of the All-Star break (sneaky segue, right?), traditionally falling mid-season to pump up renewed fan support, that’s when One and Done debuts! It’s book three of my Red River Romance series and should be ready for pre-order at Amazon soon.

     A Dallas weather girl, Samantha Danielle, is thrilled and flabbergasted when her station sends her to Mexico wanting her to scoop the rumor that the Texas Rangers are interested in a hard throwing rookie. What comes down after that, proves way more astonishing! Sammi Dan can hardly believe the whirlwind she gets caught up in!
   
     This is a story you can enjoy then pass on to your husband then to your teens! My motto is: Praying my story gives God glory!

BE SURE TO COMMENT to enter TWO giveaways: a FREE copy of One and Done AND a chance to win A Hemorrhaging of Souls by Nicola Furlong

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Bio: Christian, hybrid (Simon & Schuster & Indie) author Caryl McAdoo is currently writing three series from a perspective of faith: her historical Texas Romances; the contemporary Red River Romances; and The Generations, her Biblical fiction. The novelist loves singing new songs the Lord gives her and painting. In 2008, she and her high-school-sweetheart husband Ron moved from the DFW area—home for fifty-eight years—to the woods of Red River County. Caryl counts four children and fifteen grandsugars life’s biggest blessings believing all good things come from above. Praying each story gives God glory, she hopes it also ministers His love, mercy, and grace to its readers. Caryl and Ron live in Clarksville, the county seat, in the far northeast corner of the Lone Star State.

Links: AllBooks  /  Website  /  Newsletter  /  Facebook  /  Blog  /  GoodReads  /  Google+  /  Twitter   /  Pinterest        

Monday, October 13, 2014

God protects His people!

Greetings on this Musing Monday! 


Michele Morris here. Posting for Jodie Wolf.

I have a question for you. Is it just me, or does the world seem to be moving toward the “end times”? Fast.

There are so many horrible things happening out there. Wars, disease, natural disasters . . . well, I don’t have to go on, I’m sure you’ve heard it all. You can’t watch the television or read a newspaper without hearing, reading, or seeing the troubling things.

Today I felt prompted to share God’s news. 

His Good News.

As I started to look up Bible verses, I began to realize there was a trend in what I read. See if you can see it in these few verses. 


"It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed." Deuteronomy 31:8

"You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance."  Psalm 32:7-8

"When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears, and rescues them from all their troubles." Psalm 34:17

So, do see it yet? Here’s a few more . . .

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14.27

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7

"When I am afraid, I will put my trust in Thee. In God, whose word I praise, In God I have put my trust; I shall not be afraid. What can [mere] man do to me?" Psalm 56:3-4

"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16.33

When you hear the news channel talk about how bad it is out there in the world, remember these verses.

Be encouraged!


God keeps His Word! 


Michele K. Morris writes Historical Romance. She’s an active member of ACFW, and Sonshine Scribes, ACFW Central Florida, in addition she blogs once a month on the group blog, stitchesthrutime@blogspot.com and every Thursday morning at michelemorris@blogspot.com. She finaled in 2014 CFACFW and The Christian Writers Conference’s Prompt Response Contest and has home schooled her six children for over twenty-one years


Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Christmas is coming!



It that time of the year again!


Michele here to try and whisk you into the holiday spirit! If you’re a crafter you know it’s the time of year when you start planning your holiday project list.



This year I plan to make a Christmas afghan. I already have two, one my grandma made in the seventies, and the other came from my parent's cabin in Northern MI. I love those blankets. They have sentimental value because they are connected to someone or something in my past. I’d like to make something like that for my own children.


So, I need your help. Which throw do you like? I’ve posted a few patterns along with the link to the web site where you can find them if you’re interested. 

Please, vote in the comment section to help me out and don't forget to leave your e-mail address to be entered into our weekly drawing.

Peppermint Throw and Pillow   Here's choice number one. I love the bright contrast and fun peppermint candies! 
And here's the link to the pattern: patterns/peppermint-throw-and-pillow


Snowflakes & Ribbons Throw
Choice number two. Another pretty one!
Here this link: Snowflakes-ribbons-throw

And the last choice. I like this one because I learned to crochet granny squares when I was in elementary school. (a LONG time ago!) 
Link to this cute granny square throw: Holiday-throw

                                                                      Holiday Throw

All the above patterns are found on Red Heart Yarn's web site.

Thanks for your help! I can't wait to hear from you!
Happy crafting,
Michele


Saturday, October 26, 2013

Author Interview: Anita Mae Draper




 

I’d like to introduce you to author Anita Mae Draper. She’s a fellow-Canadian whom I happened to meet at my first American Fiction Writers Conference (ACFW) in 2010. Since that time, Anita Mae has semi-finaled in the Historical Romance category of the ACFW's 2011 Genesis contest and finaled in the Inspirational category of the 2011 Daphne du Maurier, the 2011 Fool for Love, and the 2011 Duel on the Delta.  In addition, she signed her first contract!

 
  (Leave a comment at the end of this post and be entered to win a $10 Starbucks gift certificate! As two Canadians, we apologize that it is for US residents only.)

CG - Welcome to our blog Anita Mae. I'm so happy to have another Canadian on Stitches Thru Time. Can you tell us what part of Canada you're from and what's so unique about it?

AMD - Thanks, Cherie, I'm glad to be here. I was born in Northwestern Ontario, north of Lake Superior, but my dad's job took us to Winnipeg, Manitoba which is what I consider my stompin' ground. When I was 17, I joined the military and was posted back to Ontario where I met my husband. After 20 yrs of Service, we settled in Southeast Saskatchewan to be close to hubby's folks. We're still here and if I have say what's unique about it, I'd have to say the lack of trees!

CG - I love that our country is so diverse. Why don't you tell me about your current project?

AMD - It's funny you should ask because my debut publishing credit is a short story in a Christmas anthology, A Cup of Christmas Cheer Volume 1. My story,Riding on a Christmas Wish is set in 1911 within an hour's drive of Toronto, Ontario. Although I mainly write prairie westerns, research into my husband's genealogy in the Keswick area of York County sparked an Edwardian story that grew in rich historical detail and refused to be ignored. So I did what any writer does and wrote it down.
 
CG - Wow, that sounds so intriguing! For anyone who's visited Toronto in recent years, you'll know that this city and the surrounding areas are quite populated now and an epi-center for modern business. But can you tell us what York County was like in the early 1900's?

AMD - Back in 1911, most of York County was farming country with small communities every few miles. Although it sounds boring, it was an exciting and hectic time of change. Telephones were being installed for those who recognized the wonder of modern communications. Buggies and sleighs had to share the narrow, unpaved roads with automobiles whose drivers drove on whatever side they wanted at speeds that enraged the population. Many horses panicked at the sound of automobile horns and turned into runaways, upsetting whatever they were pulling and causing injuries and even death to their passengers. Newspapers were full of incidents involving dangers of the day. It really is incredible what they went through to survive.




CG  - That does make for an interesting backdrop. What is the premise of A Cup of Christmas Cheer?
AMD - A Cup of Christmas Cheer is a 2-volume hardcover set of Christmas short stories. Volume 1 contains stories of Faith and Family, and Volume 2 contains stories of Joy and Wonder such as angels and miracles. Riding on a Christmas Wish plays into the Faith and Family theme because it's about an over-protective father, a teenager who craves freedom, and the mother who wants to honor them both. 
 
CG - Sounds like these books would make a great Christmas gift! Where and when will it be available?
A Cup of Christmas Cheer is available now at the Guideposts Books online store at http://www.shopguideposts.org/a-cup-of-christmas-cheer.html and that includes the 2 volumes and a special fridge magnet.
 
Thank you for inviting me to be on your blog, Cherie. Although we didn't discuss handcrafts, the homey atmosphere made me feel at home.
 
CG - Well, maybe we can talk handcrafts next chat ;) Thanks Anita Mae for your time today!
 
If you want to learn more about our Author of the Day, visit www.anitamaedraper.com.
 
Blessings,
Cherie Gagnon

PS - Don't forget to comment to be entered into the draw!

Tuesday, September 17, 2013

Genre Night at ACFW Conference

On Tuesdays, we like to share historical tidbits. I had a different post planned for today, but I wanted to share a little fun some of us had over the last few days!

From September 12-15 about 600 hundred writers, editor, agents, and authors gathered together in Indianapolis for the American Fiction Writers Convention. A new addition to the event was a Genre Night where participants could come dressed up in the time period that they write or as a character from their novels. As creative-types, this was embraced by many of us.

So today, I will be sharing some of the period costumes worn at the conference.

Fellow Stitches Thru Time (STT) bloggers: Crystal L. Barnes and Jodie Wolfe

The West meets Victorian: STT bloggers, Susan Mires and Cherie Gagnon

STT blogger, Lora Young, poses in a costume she sewed. You can see her write up on creating her dress under the heading Woven Wednesdays. Yes, it seems as though there is some time warp with the nineteenth century lady with two baseball players from the twenty-first century!

A few dressed in Medieval costumes that were fantastic!

Regency ladies who look like they walked out of an Austen novel.

We even had a few flappers at dinner.
 
 
Hope you enjoyed catching a glimpse of just a few of the costumes from Genre Night!

 

If you had to choose an outfit, what would you wear?

Wednesday, September 11, 2013

Confessions of a Tenacious Tailor



I love dressing up. Not in evening gowns and formal attire. No. I’m talking little girl dress-up. I think that’s why I got involved in drama in high school. It gave me an excuse for wearing costumes.

When American Christian Fiction Writers announced a genre dinner at this year’s conference, I got excited. Since I write historical fiction, I have a perfect excuse to make a costume.

Let’s get one thing straight. I hate to sew. When I pull out the pin cushion and scissors, take the cover off the sewing machine, and clear the dining room table, my family goes into hiding. Don’t get me wrong. I’m a pretty good seamstress. I’ve been sewing since grade school. But I’ve done it because I had to—not because I wanted to.

I found a pattern for a bustle dress. (Yes, I write late nineteenth century romantic suspense.) The jacket looked a little tricky, so I asked a friend if she’d make it for me. She demurred. Should’ve been my first clue, but I forged ahead without her assistance.

I started with the skirt.
Easy. No problem. It gave me courage to continue. The jacket came next. Fitted. Fourteen pieces in the bodice alone. At least half the seams had to be ripped out and sewn again. <sigh> Determined to finish this if it killed me, I worked and worked.


Then came the overskirt. I made the size the pattern said matched my dimensions, but it was huge. Alter. Try on. Alter some more.

Finally. Finished. If you want to see the finished product, visit my Facebook page facebook.com/lorayoungwriter.

I learned several lessons through this project. (Probably the reason God forced me to make this silly dress. =op Kidding. Just kidding.)

•  #1 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
•  #2 Never trust pattern manufacturers.
•  #3 Don’t assume you have the right sides together. Check.
•  #4 And last, but not least, the next book I write will be Amish. (Just kidding.)

Have you ever taken on something (not necessarily a craft) that was clearly beyond your abilities? How’d it turn out?