Monday, January 27, 2014

Great story

The World at War by Pam Funke
ISBN-13: 978-1475102260
Publisher: CreateSpace

Purchase the book:
Amazon

Book blurb:

The world is in complete chaos as major nations wage war against each other forcing mankind to take sides. The entire world is watching Nicolaitanes Balac and his continuing rise to global power. Will he be the one to save the world? Is this who we should rely on for help or will this be the worst mistake that mankind has ever made?

I gave this book 4 stars out of a total of 5 stars. There is something about a request for a review on a religious story that can be a little daunting, even enough to cause a second thought. You have to worry about it being weighted so heavily that it becomes offensive to some, you may even worry about your conflicting views making it impossible to give a fair unbiased review. The same can be said for a manuscript that mirrors your reviews giving you the inability to find anything wrong.

Those were all issues I had to think deeply about before, and while, reading The World at War by Pam Funke. Just from reading the back flap it was apparent that she wrote a heavily Christian manuscript, though there was also promise of a strong story on top of a strong spiritual message.

The story begins right at the start of a true apocalyptic scene. It switches quickly between heads of state in different countries, and a few groups of civilians trying to find cover and survive as missiles from each country is launched at another. The intensity over these first few chapters only continues to increase as the counterattacks begin, and the knowledge that things were no all that they seemed, and those behind it, are revealed.

As the world is thrust deeper into chaos the UWR, United World Religion, begins accusing the Christians of a plot to destroy the world by utilizing a new biological weapon, and a weapon that seems to randomly cause people to disappear. That accusation puts the world even more on edge, even though it is the Christians themselves that are 'disappearing'.

Early on there is a particular character that is introduced in a way that gives you the impression he is the key to everything going on. When the world is at the peak of despair he reveals himself and begins performing miracles, specifically healing, just as Jesus did.

There are biblical versus threaded throughout the story, though these really aren't in any way a distraction. Otherwise the story really reads as a general end of the world thriller that really is a good read. There are several pros to this story throughout:

The story, overall, is very well told. It has elements that remind me of the Left Behind series, though it is notably different in its own way.

Funke wrote The World at War in a way that is different from other Revelations inspired stories. The shear amount of distance the story covers is quite an undertaking, and is impressive up until, and including, the end.
The characters, speaking as a whole, are well done and very human. You find yourself rooting the heroes and cursing the villains, or at least those you think are the villains.

 There are a few cons to the story as well:

The story jumps between character/group to character/group so quickly throughout that in a few, and I do mean few, instances becomes a bit of a distraction.

There are a few characters that fall a little short and seem a bit more second thought. In the end The World at War by Pam Funke is a great rendition of the book of Revelations and has an interestingly real feel to it. It is a good read regardless of your religion and one of the most important aspects is there really wasn't any offense to any other religions, something many manuscripts like this fall short on. ~ Zach Tyo

Book Trailer:




Gaining The World In Exchange for Your Soul

Operation Dark Angel: The Rise of Nicolaitanes
 by Pam Funke
ISBN-13: 978-1482675399
Publisher: CreateSpace

Purchase the book
: Amazon

Book blurb:

A mysterious voice tells General Ludlow about a military operation that will bring an end to the world's evil. Nicolaitanes Balac is given political power beyond what anyone has ever been entrusted with before. Who is the voice? Is this the type of power that should be given to a single man? What role will Nicolaitanes play in ending the world's chaos? Will mankind be able to withstand the growing evil spreading across the globe? Will Operation Dark Angel succeed?

I gave this book 5 stars out of a total of 5 stars. When I started reading Operation Dark Angel, I didn't know what I was in for. Now, I'm a little familiar with the Left Behind series but I'm definitely familiar with prophetic movies such as A Thief In The Night & A Distant Thunder (both from the 70s), Operation Dark Angel takes it up a notch. The prologue starts off with a shock (don't want to give this book away).

Operation Dark Angel is in my opinion part fiction, but the prophecy is not. I found myself reading it and thinking one, this is a long book (and had to put it down a few times to absorb it), but on the other hand, it really grabbed my attention. One can only read this book and feeling like they're watching today's news broadcast. Pam Funke takes the book of Revelation and puts it right in front of you. Only a fool would miss what's staring right in front of them.

The central theme of this book (again, not to give the plot away) is this: what profits a man to gain the world but lose his soul. And sadly, this is the plight for many people in this world today. I so look forward to reading the sequel to this book. Operation Dark Angel gave me a great reminder that this world is not my home and not put my trust in the things of this world. Great read! ~ Tremayne K Moore

 Book trailer:

We talked for hours after reading as my girl explored God's world!

Through the Eyes of a Child by Pam Funke
ISBN-13: 978-1490478067
Publisher: CreateSpace

Purchase the book:
Amazon

Book blurb:


God created the heavens and the earth. He created all of the plants, animals and birds of the air. He created man. When God was finished He looked at all that He had created and saw that it was good. Come see the world through the curious eyes of a child.

I gave this book 5 stars out of a total of 5 stars. This is the first book I've read by Pam Funke, and I love it! I have a 6 year old daughter and this book easily kept her attention. Not only that, but it generated many curious questions for her which opened such a beautiful line of communication between us. She started looking at other animals and making the connections between God and our world. I have to say, the thing I loved most about this book was that the author used real pictures, and not illustrations. It allowed my daughter to make tangible correlations in her world, as opposed to make believe characters. I recommend reading this book with your child, nieces, nephews, grandchildren, Sunday school classes... I personally plan on purchasing a few copies for Easter gifts.

This book is more than a book! I'm so pleased that I took the time to read it, and it was a gift to share this with my daughter.

If I had to give any feedback for future children's stories, I would suggest finding more opportunities to tie in vocabulary explanations. Example, Bella or the animals could ask, "What does forsaken mean?" Or "What does Alpha and Omega mean?" But at the same time, it's a great conversational piece between child and parent. However, the author seems to have an amazing ability to bring examples of God to children, so it would be beneficial to have her words. ~ Jennifer Murray

Your Love is King by Adrienne Thompson

Your Love is King by Adrienne Thompson
ISBN-13: 978-0988871342
Publisher: Pink Cashmere Publishing

Purchase the book:
Amazon

Book blurb:

Divorced nurse and single mom, Marli Meadows, was tired of the monotonous rhythm of her life, so she decided to leave it behind and embark on a search for change. Instead, she found a love.

Excerpt:

I shrugged, thinking to myself that he was crazy and that anyone who saw us would think we were both crazy. I took his hand and let him pull me into his arms. With his phone sitting on the roof of his car providing the music, we danced beneath the stars on the hospital parking lot. I closed my eyes and thought to myself that I loved the way his arms felt around me. Just like he said, I was a perfect fit—we were a perfect fit for each other.

I opened my eyes and looked up at his face. His eyes were closed as he mouthed the words to the song, and he looked so handsome. I reached up and gently caressed his cheek, letting my fingers fall to graze his neck. I wanted to kiss him so badly. I always wanted to kiss him. I couldn’t get enough of him or his kisses or the feeling of his arms around me. Was I in love with him? If I wasn’t, I definitely wanted to be, and the feeling of wanting to be in love was strange, almost foreign to me. I’d spent most of my adult life running away from that feeling.

He opened his eyes and grasped my hand as it traveled to his chest. He brought my hand to his lips and kissed it softly. Then he leaned forward and kissed my lips again. When we finally parted, it was well past the time for me to return to work.



About the Author: Married at sixteen, a mother twice by seventeen, and thrice a mother and divorced by twenty-four, Adrienne Thompson is no stranger to adversity. Not your typical teenage mother, she went on to complete her college degree and to earn her nursing license. She attributes God's faithfulness as the catalyst for her success in life. Now, having raised two children as a divorced mother, with a third fast-approaching adulthood, she is sharing a long hidden talent and passion with the world. Using the lessons that life has so expertly taught her as a guideline (betrayal, abusive relationships, self-esteem issues, witnessing the deteriorating effects of drug abuse), she has created stories that will both entertain and inspire the reader.

Adrienne currently resides in Arkansas with her daughter. Formerly an RN, she now writes and publishes her stories full time.

Please Welcome Author Audrey Stover

Good morning, Audrey, and welcome to my blog. Please start by telling us something about yourself.

Good morning, Pam. Thank you for having me. I have always been an avid reader. In the early ‘90s while reading a romance novel I said to myself, “I can write a better story than this!” Instead of finishing the book, I picked up the first of many yellow legal pads and put pen to paper. Dozens of yellow pads later II had my first three stories written. Now, that doesn’t mean they ever moved past the hand-written stage, but I always dreamed of being a published author.

In November 2010 I decided to try my hand at writing during NaNoWriMo. My first novel, Coming Home is the result of that endeavor. It took a while to self-publish it because I got lost in the editing process, then my hard drive crashed and the whole book was lost! Thankfully, I had the first draft saved on a website and three years later decided it was once again time to attempt to self-publish. In July 2013 I wrote a second book which is currently in the editing stage.

I live in San Diego with my three teenagers and enjoys being involved in my local church. 

 Please tell me about your novel. Who or what was your inspiration behind it?
My novel is titled Coming Home. Not very original, but that is the title that came to me as I was completing it. My inspiration was my mom and NaNoWriMo. In 2010 I found this website that encourages writers to write a novel (50,000 words) in a month. November 1, 2010 I just started writing and 30 days later I had 50,000 words written! It was really an amazing month for me.

What are some of your favorite genres to read and to write?
I love to read Regency romances, but there aren't very many Christian ones out there. I also enjoy Christian historical and contemporary romance, mystery, suspense, and biographies. As for what I write, they say you should right what you know, so I write contemporary Christian romance with an emphasis on having a personal relationship with Jesus.

When you sit down to write, do you do it the old-fashioned way with pen and paper or do you use a computer? Do you prefer one way or the other?
I have done both. I have a ton of yellow legal pads filled with stories. I wrote the entirety of Coming Home on my iPad. I actually prefer computer/iPad because it is faster -- when inspiration strikes, I have a hard time keeping up with it! Plus, when using my iPad my writing hand doesn't get as tired as fast.

What has been your favorite part of being an author? What has been your least favorite?
My favorite part is when people read my book and tell me that they liked it! That amazes me! My least favorite is when I sit down to write and two or three hours later I only have a couple hundred words written. Ugh!

Did you get to quit your day job and become an author or do you still have a day job and writing is something you do for fun? If you still have a day job, what is it?
I still have my day job and I definitely write for fun! I get so much enjoyment from writing. I am a lunch lady at an elementary school. I absolutely love it!

What is your favorite junk food vice?
Definitely potato chips, but chocolate and popcorn are right up there. I recently saw a recipe on a potato chip bag to put some chips on a paper plate add a few chocolate chips and zap it in the microwave for a few seconds to melt the chocolate. I am definitely going to have to try that!

What do you listen to when you write? Do you find one type of music over another that inspires you to write? Why?
I like so many genres of music. I think it depends what is going on in my story. I like to listen to Pandora and the two stations I listen to most are 2Cellos and Celine Dion.
Who was your current novel dedicated to? Any particular reason?
I dedicated Coming Home to my mom because she has always been my greatest cheerleader and she has been trying to get me to write and publish a book for almost twenty years now.

What are you currently reading?
I am always reading something, usually more than one thing at a time. I am currently reading A Confident Heart by Renee Swope and An Untamed Land by Lauraine Snelling.
Who are your favorite authors?
Oh my, I have so many favorite authors. Let's see... Dee Henderson, Frank Peretti, Terri Blackstock, Jane Austen, Janette Oke, Joel C. Rosenberg, Grace Livingston Hill... Should I keep going?

Coming Home by Audrey Stover
ISBN-13: 978-1461102168
Publisher: CreateSpace

Purchase the book:
Amazon

Book blurb:

A Christian Romance... Susan and Craig were meant to be together...or were they? Susan always thought so until they were torn apart by "irreconcilable differences". When he shows up out of the blue years later it seems like their differences will continue to play havoc in their lives.

Wednesday, January 1, 2014

WARNING! “PRUDISH” CHARACTERS ON BOARD! by Deborah Heal


WARNING! “PRUDISH” CHARACTERS ON BOARD!

Writing Christian fiction is not for the faint of heart. As my friend Tom Jones (the pastor not the pop star) recently told me, if you’re going to be a writer you have to grow a thick skin because people will criticize.

A few weeks ago, I received a criticism of my young adult trilogy from a friend of mine who is a deacon in the Episcopal Church. She said that teenagers are going to roll their eyes at my characters Abby and John for their commitment to sexual abstinence. She assured me that mainline denominations believe that concept is misogynous and outdated, and that as long as the couple is mature enough and respect each other enough, sexual activity is suitable and even assumed—especially if they are engaged.* See more below.

A recent (3-star) review of Every Hill and Mountain by SKJAM! REVIEWS closely mirrors her view.

“This book is aimed at the Christian young adult market, so there is quite a bit of God-talk …The sexual prudishness of the protagonists will probably have older teens, particularly ones not raised in more conservative Christian communities, rolling their eyes. Conservative Christian parents, on the other hand, are likely to approve of Abby and John’s chaste relationship.…”

This same reviewer jumps to the conclusion that the reason my characters are so “prudish” is because they’ve been the victims of an abstinence-only sex ed program. He continues:

“And [Ryan’s] reasoning for having sex with Kate shows the perils of abstinence-only sex ed and purity culture–a more streetwise woman than Kate would have noticed how bogus the logic was.”

Speaking of bogus logic. Modern sex-ed programs do everything but assist teens into bed with so-called “safe sex” instructions. It is the abstinence-only programs that teach girls (and boys) to be “street smart,” to warn them of the perils of listening to their hormones talking.

Of course, I was quite conscious as I wrote the trilogy that our culture has taken the position that abstinence is passé, uncool, unnecessary, and an impossibility. (And possibly even dangerous to the health of its practitioners.) No one could watch contemporary TV or movies or read secular novels without realizing that “dating” (if the word is used at all) equates with a sexual relationship. Actually, “relationship” itself equates with sexual activity.

And I knew that many contemporary mainline denominations are silent about what the Bible says about sexual purity. My deacon friend actually asserts the Bible doesn’t even teach this.

But I have to admit I’m more than a little shocked that this reviewer and especially my deacon friend would find Abby and John’s commitment to abstinence a negative. After all, even if you believe that it is impossible to live a sexually pure life wouldn’t you still want novels to present this ideal to teenagers? I would say that although it is impossible to fully live up to any of the Bible’s commands we still need to hear what they are. (And turn to Christ as the law’s fulfillment.)

I once read an article in which young people had been interviewed about teen novels that adults write for them. More than one complained that adults seemed only to write about teens having sex and using alcohol and drugs. “We think about more than that,” one girl said. “We think about lots of other things, important things.”

I respect that and try to offer teens substance in my books. I believe they are looking for heroes and role models such as my fictional characters, Abby and John. I disagree that my characters are sexually repressed prudes. Here is the passage from Every Hill and Mountain that apparently offended my critics. Abby and Kate’s boyfriends are stuck at Abby’s house and spend the night downstairs in the living room. During the night, an emergency comes up and Abby must find her boyfriend John quickly.

The tricky part would be finding John. Pat had brought a sleeping bag from the hall closet for him, but Abby had no idea where he put it. Other than the soft snores coming from the vicinity of the couch, the room was completely quiet.

She discovered the answer to her question when a hand came out of the darkness and grabbed her ankle. She stumbled and landed on a warm chest. A bare warm chest, from which came a soft whoosh of air. Right after the whoosh, a large hand covered her mouth. The precaution was unnecessary. She had recognized John’s cologne and knew in an instant that it was no nightmare monster attacking her.

He put his mouth to her ear and whispered, “What are you doing here? I thought [Ryan] Turner was the one planning on nighttime shenanigans.”

Abby pulled his hand away from her mouth and tried for indignant, which was difficult when whispering. “Don’t be ridiculous, Mr. Roberts. If I was inclined to get into your bed, and I’m not, it wouldn’t be with Ryan in the room.”

“Well, you are in fact in my bed, and you’d better get out of it quick. I know the Bible says God will never give us any temptation stronger than what we can handle, but…”

“Just to be clear, you are the one who dragged me into your bed, and—”

“Abby. Please. Have pity. What is it you want?”

If felt wonderful being in John’s arms, but she had promised him and God that she wouldn’t intentionally tempt him to break his commitment—their commitment—to abstinence.

“Come up to the computer room,” she whispered. “There’s something you have to see.” And then she rose less than gracefully and stood looking down at him. “And don’t wake Ryan.”

I think they’re being heroic, not prudish. After all, they certainly think sex together would be pretty wonderful. Consider another passage that exemplifies the thinking more typical of our culture today. Here, Abby’s friend Kate tries to convince her that premarital sex is okay.

“Ryan said virginity is like a tamper-proof seal on a bottle of aspirin. It’s meant for the man you’re going to marry. And now that we know we’re getting married, what’s the point of waiting. You’ll see when you’re engaged, Abby.” Kate turned on her side away from her. “Let’s get some sleep.”

Abby lay staring up at the blinking red smoke detector light on the dark ceiling, wondering if she even really knew her roommate any more.

How sad that Kate has fallen for that line. It’s not that she lacks “street smarts.” She just forgot to run away from temptation, something that John becomes quite adept at in Unclaimed Legacy.

It would be wonderful if everyone who read my books loved them (and posted glowing reviews for them.) But as they say, you can’t please all the people all the time. However, I really listen to every comment I receive about my books, whether positive or negative. Sometimes I learn some pretty good stuff that will help me to be a better writer.

But not this time. I pray that I will remain firm in my commitment to please God rather than reviewers.

By the way, I am a prudish and happy member of a radical, extremist, and conservative denomination that still believes premarital sex is sin.

*But back to mainline denominations. Is my deaconess friend even right about their teachings on sex? Do you have experience with such churches? I sincerely would like to know their various positions on sex. Wait! that came out wrong. I mean, I would like to understand what churches are teaching about sex today. You may leave your answer in the comment section of my blog. Click here to go to the article.

You can read more about my books by clicking on this link.

Contact the Author: Website

The Proposal by S.R. Harris

 THE PROPOSAL by S.R. Harris

It was the biggest day of her life as she grabs the microphone to go up onstage. But not for the reason she was hoping. He approaches her from the other end of the stage. Though she's was feeling Wowwed by his handsome appearance. She knew the charm of his ways on the inside which brought a huge mistrusting feeling through her. He approaches her with a microphone in hand he bows in front of her on one knee. With a smile on his face he looks in her eyes and say" Will you Marry me" "I love you". She was so overwhelmed with his beautiful smile and his deep brown eyes. How could she resist that? Then she looked deeper onto his eyes & saw his soul. The day she was always waiting finally came but sadness over came her spirit. For she knew she couldn't marry this man per her fathers instructions. Instructing her not to forget all that she has seen and all that was done to her. Be ware of Smooth talkers her father warned her! Overwhelmed with tears in her heart because she knew how much she cared for this man but she knew deep down that they didn't share the same type of love. Oh how she wishes they would be of one spirit with the same mind, same heart, and most of all the same God. Why did he have to hide himself from her for so long? Why did he stay away? Why did he inflict so much hurt and pain on her? Why so much physical, emotional, & psychological deception. Was our love real to him? Was it just a fun joke? As these questions went full speed through her mind she raised the microphone to her lips looking deep in his eyes. She knew deep down inside it was time for her to let this go and trust God to move forward. 3years she survived her lonely dry season with her & her father. While he instructed her along the way loving and caring for her feeling the empty void that the one she loved left so cold.
She accepted that they both where on separate journey's in life not sure how his journey took place. She knew for shore that his journey was without her.
She said "I'm sorry but I can't marry you" . No words could express the deep hurt they both felt at that very moment. He wouldn't let it go that easy with both having tears drowning their eyes. He looked in her eyes again and asked "WHY. I know you love me just as much as I love you and it won't go away no matter how hard we try to reject it and push it away. " With millions watching you would've thought that these 2 where in a private room of their own having this discussion. With all eyes watching and wondering what will happen next in suspense like their watching a real thrilling movie daring some one in the crowd to make one peep. Mouths open mixed emotions throughout the crowd. But these 2 still in their own world.
As she is dreading to look back into his big beautiful eyes now no longer filled with joy. Expression of longing
to have her as his own. Not understanding why she would say No after all they have both been through and made it out of. She lifts the microphone to her lips and says" I cannot marry you because you continue to operate off of my past and of the authority of Mammon and not God . You will & have also place me in the hands of dangerous men that claim to have mine and your best interest in mind. You will and have believed these things to be true. This is already what you have proven to me. You will compromise my life, yours , and our families. For these reasons I can not marry you.
His demeanor completely changes she watches the enemy take over him and anger fills his eyes he says "You are not perfect who are you to judge look at all you have done."she snaps back" We can go around all day arguing each others sins back and forth. Yes I am a sinner but i have been redeemed and forgiven in Christ striving to do better everyday. I have sat and allowed myself to be in contempt over pass things because of mens condemnation. I continually justify myself when Christ has already paid the price for me. He yells " He has done the same for me as well. Look at all I have done for you. yea maybe I wasn't there like i should've been. But I am here now! I claimed you when you didn't claim me back. I loved you anyway in spite of all you said and did past & present. I looked after you and the kids." He pause and then continues "I Waited as long as I could for you to do what you we're suppose to."
She breaks the eye contact for a moment reflecting back for a hot second then says"My father did all those things you claimed to do. Deceiving protection & manipulating love is what comes to mind when I hear you speak. Did you do these because God placed in your heart to love and protect me? or Did you do it on your own accord to win & collect whatever dirt you can? Silence....She continues
"I can no longer be chained to you and live my life bound in spiritual/physical captivity for the rest of my life. Nor in the world that you take part in. For if I were to make that vow to you i would be supporting your involvement and thats what i would be committing myself & our family to. I'm deeply sorry for all that I have said, done, and didn't do that hurt you and others. I apologize for not stepping up in those times that I should have. Having fear, lack, and slothful attitude. I pray that you will find forgiveness in your heart for me . She turns to walk away he lightly touches her hand and gently pulls her back.
He says "Im not letting you go. i don't know what it is that I'm apart of that you don't agree with but She interrupts him mid lie and says "Yes you do know! Beware of smooth talkers as my father would say. The fact that you will stand their and look me in the face and say that you don't fully confirms that i am making the right decision. I now have to place my trust in the only one that will not leave me nor forsake me. The one who loves me unconditionally in spite of it all. The Lord is not a man who gives when he wants and then places power in another mans hand to take away because things aren't being done the way a man wants it to. The Lord says his ways are not our ways. You use control methods fear and discomfort to get your way but that's not Christ way of doing things. Monitoring and stalking playing God from a distance. Then claiming to have heard a word from The Lord that this is his will and its not.
He then angrily jumps in and say" well he is allowing it so it has to be." Correction in her voice she says" No The Lord gives man a freedom of choice whether it be good or bad. He doesn't force anything on you satan test you to see whether you will make the right decision or the wrong one no matter what your status in life is. He wants to challenge your walk see if your life is lined up according to the Lords will and purpose; see where he can step in and destroy God's perfect plan. Satan seeks to destroy any and all confidence we have in our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. He seeks to Sabotage any good will of The lord wherever a potential threat of power may lie he is looking to destroy it.
Now when we fall and make wrong choice even when the Lord had another door for us to take and we decide to take the wrong one. The Lord gives us chances to turn our wrong into right and say you know what this is wrong I'm not Doing it anymore. This will destroy the purpose The Lord has setup for me if I do this. Christ is looking for us to Step out on faith and walk away. Remember he Doesn't allow more on us than we can bare. Satan can only go so fAr with Gods children. When you make that decision to pack up and walk away from those things. He will send his angels of protection around you and cover your steps. No weapon formed against you shall prosper and his angels will go to war for you so you don't have to. God is able to do exceedingly and abundantly above all we can ask or think. know that he is "I Am that I Am". If you need motivation and or encouragement look into the eyes of his children. See their hurt, pAin, and struggle. Will you make the right decision and stop or will you continue in a way that's not pleasing to him? Will you continue to take advantage manipulate their spirits mold them into your spiritual creation and lead them into destruction. It is ok to say No I will not take part in this. That's what we teach our children not to take part in wrong doing. But as adults we tend to fall into these traps that satan sets before us. Luke 16 gives a more descriptive perspective on this. Part of our journey is learning to have faith in Christ and make right decisions that he would be pleased with. You placing his name in front of wrong doing isn't good. Bullying and targeting those less fortunate is wrong. they have enough things that comes with life than for you to add to it.
He quickly interrupts her before she could continue and says I will refer you to Ephesians 2:14-18 referencing us becoming one in the spirit through him. Then i will take you to John 3: 10-21 that Christ speaks on rebirth of him dying that we may have life again in him. We know and realize that God didn't send his son to condemn the world but that the world through him might be saved. You see my love if becoming 1 in the spirit under Christ's teaching & allowing him to teach is proper Love in him. I must remind you that the love that we have and feel is Directly from heaven above. She then says" Yes but are you willing to be born again for the sake of Christ Love. Or are you going to continue in your own will ( your way) ?" He looks in her eyes without answering" This was no coincidence our Lord is of Love. Love come from him not satan he encourages hate and envy! Exactly! She says " so the question is what is in your heart do you really Love me the way Christ Love me & the church? Or do you have envy, hate, desire of control , lust what is it? Is your love for me genuinely pure and a Christ kind of Love? I really question it because of the things you have shown & allowed with the mindset of good purpose. My father says A house divided will not stand so It is important that we all know these thing. A man of God is to step away from his family and cleave to his wife. To Love and protect his family with honor and integrity. For you are to build a strong foundation for your family so if you are allowing weak and ungodly spirits within you what will allow into your family and what will their future hold due our poor choices. Let God arise and his enemies be scattered. Stand up!
Still avoiding giving her any direct answer to her questions he says "Christ say for us to think of those things that are good, truthful, lovely etc. You are my world! She respond " Is what I have said to you Not truthful and of a good report from our father in heaven. know that my love for you runs deeper than whats outside it deeply care for your spiritual well being. You have got to be spiritually strong and ready for what the Lord has brought you to . This is all Love for I didn't have to share these things with you. I could have kept them for myself selfishly and gave a simple No with no explanation whatsoever. My love for you is so much deeper this is how my father taught me to Love. So as my father would say " what would it profit a man to gain the world and lose his soul.
He says" That is what I'm choosing to stand on is the good.
"In my eyes and my heart this is what I believe. I know I did wrong even some things I shouldn't have done I was wrong. I know one thing for certain is our love. He gave my heart to you and your heart to me. So that we may become 1 in him and be a blessing to others.
She replies " You can't continue to take others lives into your own hands that is not why he blessed you and placed you in the position that you are in so you can take control. You have to believe God is God and in his son Jesus Christ. Let him be God and stop taking matters in your own hands and under your own control and placing his name on it. Please know As I speak with you i also speak to myself. no one has perfected this faith walk but Jesus Christ himself. Our journey is to reach that mark. And encourage others to step out on faith and take the journey with us. Assist with spiritual maturity where we can and walk together so we don't lose this fight.
His demeanor perks up" See that's what I am saying we can be 1 together"
Her sarcasm disrupts the moment" First I'm delusional and crazy next I'm your world & the love of your life. You don't know me. Now want us to become one? How is this?
continue crushing the excitement yet again she blurts out
"You married another and said vows before God to another and committed yourself to her. He said" But I dont love her I love you. Its you that I want." She looks at him in disappointment and says "You stay with her and love her. For this is the commitment you have made to her. Whether false or not you belong to her now. My love will be from a distance until The Lord provides me with my own. Which he will choose the perfect man for me the one he has called to be. Christ has given us both new life. He snaps back "Don't let satan just take what he has brought together. She responds back" God's will will come to pass in his time & in his way so let his kingdom come and his will be done in both our lives. As of now You have decide on your new life and who you wanted on your journey with you so be with her Love her. The choice you made is no mistake God doesn't make mistakes. Man makes mistakes. If this is what he has called to be embrace it and be the man that God has called you to be. The story of Esther comes to mind right now. Im going to take the path that he has for me now no longer the path of destruction. I know man has their destruction/ attacks against me but my God will be there for me. Struggling with forgiveness of someone you love is normal. So in Christ we have to find that forgiving spirit The Lord already placed in us & we have to manifest it in our lives for forward movement. Your right about one thing I have a love in my heart for you. But I now place that love in Christ's hand and may his will be done in both our lives. " She kissed him gently and walked off stage.
She goes back to her dressing room and cal apse to the floor crying out "God"? Please give me peace, forgiveness, and pure uncontaminated love. I understand father that none of us are perfect but Lord I longed to be loved no longer abused and then have it considered love. I know you know what's best for me and have a plan. I have to trust your plan.

Meet Patricia Leppo

Hello Patricia and welcome to my blog. Please tell us a little about yourself.

Hi Pam, thanks for having me. I was born in San Luis Obispo, California. Although I still have family in that area, I have resided primarily in the central valley. In addition to writing, I work as a paralegal for a civil litigation law firm in Bakersfield, California. I enjoy genealogy, traveling and research. I am currently working on my second book.

Please tell me about your novel. Who or what was your inspiration behind it?

There were three major factors involved. I’ve always been very interested in the Civil War. One of my favorite movies is Cold Mountain. I also loved the North and South miniseries, and of course who can forget the impact of movies like Gettysburg, Glory and Gone With the Wind. It’s difficult for me to imagine our country torn apart by a war of this magnitude. When I watch the news and see the tension that exists between races, religions and political parties in our country I often worry that this could happen again. Our country was devastated by the war and it took years to re-build. One of my hopes in writing this book is that it will influence people to try to more peacefully resolve their differences.

Also, despite being called the “heartbeat of the military” I have also always felt that the Civil War drummer boys did not receive the recognition that they deserved. I have never watched a movie or read a book that focused on this subject. Boys as young as eight enlisted, bravely marched alongside the soldiers during battle and were often killed and buried in unmarked graves on the battlefield far away from home. I thought it would be interesting to place a teenager with today’s perspective in this situation.

The last factor was my obsession with my family tree. My ancestors have been here since the Mayflower and I discovered while doing genealogy that I have had family members involved in every war since the Revolutionary War. I chose to write about the Battle of Stones River that took place in Murfreesboro, TN after I discovered that two of my great-great-great-grand-uncles, James and Adrastus Tolle, had been Union soldiers during this battle. They were enlisted with the 21st KY Infantry. I also learned from a family member that my great-great-grand-uncle, Joseph Haas, was a Civil War Union drummer. Rumor has it he met both President Lincoln and General Grant, and received 850 acres in land grants that were signed by President Lincoln himself.

What are some of your favorite genres to read and to write?

I have gone through many different genre stages in my life. These have included the classics, westerns, romance, mystery, crime, horror, and non-fiction such as biographies, spirituality and psychology/self-empowerment.

What has been the toughest criticism given to you as an author? What was the biggest compliment? Did those change how or what you did in your next novel?


My writing has not yet been criticized by anyone other than myself. I am the toughest critic of my writing. I was very surprised when those who read my book told me that they really enjoyed the story and could not put it down. The main reason this surprised me is because I intended my book to be read by teenagers, and these compliments came from adults.

When you sit down to write, do you do it the old-fashioned way with pen and paper or do you use a computer? Do you prefer one way or the other?


I prefer to write using a laptop. I do not write my stories in chronological order. I write portions of the beginning, middle and end as they come to me, and then I continue to add a little at a time to these sections until I am able to join them together. I would not be able to do this if I wrote with a pen and paper.

What do you do when you are not writing? Do you pick up some from you to be read pile?


I select a book from a stack on my nightstand and read for about 20 minutes at bedtime. Much of what I read beside this are Facebook posts made by friends and family, or online articles about current events, science, and psychology.

Compared to when you first started writing, have you notice any big changes in your writing style or how you write compared from then to now?

I am experimenting with different types of voice, such as using first person point of view in the teen romance I am working on.

What do you look for in a book when you sit down to read for fun?

What I read for fun now are non-fiction books. I also enjoy online blogs. I have not read fiction in a few years.

What has been your favorite part of being an author? What has been your least favorite?

I find that I tend to lose myself in the writing process, and this is very fulfilling. I feel like I am doing what I was born to do. My least favorite is my tendency to make writing my least important priority after everything else I have to get done during the day. By the evening I am usually too tired to write.

When you walk into a book store, where do you head to first? Why?

The clearance section, then on to psychology/self-empowerment and lastly the magazine section.

Did you get to quit your day job and become an author or do you still have a day job and writing is something you do for fun? If you still have a day job, what is it?

I did not quit my day job to become a writer. I currently am a paralegal and work for a litigation attorney. I was working for a real estate brokerage when I began writing The Drummer’s Call.

What has been the strangest thing that a reader has asked you?

Do I need a college degree to publish a book.

What is your favorite junk food vice?

My favorite junk food are pastries of all varieties.

Besides writing and reading, what is your most favorite thing to do?

Spend time with my daughter. We have a very close relationship. I also love traveling to new places, sightseeing and hiking. I live just a few hours from Los Angeles, the Pacific Coast and also Yosemite. Whenever we have the chance to visit those places we enjoy browsing through clothing, antique and book stores and trying new restaurants.

Did you have any teacher in school that encouraged you to write? Did you take their advice?

Yes. I began writing short stories in sixth grade. My teacher would read them to the class. She used to tell me that I should try to have them published. I stopped writing stories after elementary school and did not pick it up again until 30 years later. During those 30 years I chose to read rather than write.

We all have our little things when it comes to reading, is there anything that bugs you when you read a novel? What is it?

I hate not knowing how a book will end, and throughout my life I’ve often read the last few pages long before I was done with the story!

What do you listen to when you write? Do you find one type of music over another that inspires you to write? Why?

I find I am distracted by music or television when I write.

On a typical weekend, what can we find you doing? Who are you with?

I try to balance out chores and something fun, like a day trip or a get-together with friends or family.

What genre are you most looking forward to exploring during your writing career? Why?

Writing different types of novels aimed and various age groups. I am currently working on two books – one is the sequel to The Drummer’s Call which is going to be written as a teen historical romance, the other is a fictional book for grownups about a woman who escapes an abusive relationship and her path to healing.

Who was your current novel dedicated to? Any particular reason?

My book is dedicated to my father, brothers and grandfather. I include a lot of humorous bantering between the soldier characters in my book. All of the men in my family are very funny. From my earliest memories most family get-togethers involved a lot of story-telling, teasing and laughing. In addition, almost all of the men in every generation of my family have served in the military. For these two reasons I dedicated my book to my father, brothers and grandfather.

What are you currently reading?

I am alternating between 3 books depending upon my mood: The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron & Mark Bryan, A Spiritual Solution to Every Problem by Wayne Dyer, What Matters Most by James Hollis.

Who are your favorite authors?

Taylor Caldwell, Jane Austin, Jack London, Wayne Dyer and Don Miguel Ruiz.

What authors inspired you to write this particular novel? Why?

I really do not know what author inspired me to write my novel. My book has been compared to Tom Sawyer so possibly a mixture of Mark Twain combined with various other authors whose adventure novels I’ve read.

What 7 words would you use to describe yourself.

Introspective, empathetic, persistent, non-judgmental, shy, family-oriented & inquisitive.

Is there anything else that you would like to share or say to those who will read this interview?

I literally spent hundreds of hours doing research for this book. All of my sources are listed on my website. Everything I write about from the weather, the geography, the Civil War and the daily life of the Civil War drummer has been researched. I never enjoyed history in school. I tried to write The Drummer’s Call in such a way that the reader enjoys the story so much he or she does not realize how much they have learned about the Civil War until they have finished the book.

Which is your favorite character in your book and why?

Josh is my favorite character. Like me, he has many fears that he must face – fear of the dark, fear of public speaking, etc. Also like me, he learns that not only must you take life and its’ problems one day at a time, but often that your fears are much worse than reality and by facing them the end result is that you become a stronger and wiser person.



Contact the Author: Website

Her Grace in Disgrace by Claudia Harbaugh

Her Grace in Disgrace by Claudia Harbaugh
Publisher: CreateSpace
ISBN: 978-1490341682
Softcover (246 pages)


Purchase the book: Amazon

Blurb:

Reginald Aiken, Duke of Warwick is dead and his young widow is not grieving…until the will is read.
Isobel Kennilworth Aiken, Duchess of Warwick spent 6 years of her young life in a loveless marriage. Now, at the age of 24, Isobel is a widow. As Isobel awaits the reading of her late husband’s last will and testament, she feels no grief, but in fact is quite hopeful. She is eager to start her life anew. But, as the droning of the solicitor’s voice washes over her detailing the bequests to various servants and family members, a shock awaits her. The "other woman" was not his mistress, but his lawfully wedded wife and together they had a son. Six year old Reggie is now the Duke of Warwick, displacing Reginald’s brother Charles. 


There is a collective gasp as the revelation is made that instantly cuts off Isobel and Charles and dashes their hopes for the future. Isobel must indeed start again, not as a titled, influential and wealthy widow, but as plain Miss Kennilworth, tainted by scandal, something to be avoided at all costs in Regency England. Can she get past the disgrace and humiliation she has endured and fight her way back into society? Will she find love again with her childhood sweetheart, Andrew Stafford, former vicar, now Lord Saybrooke? Or perhaps she will rekindle the romance with Jeremy Ingles, Lord Westcott, who had caught her fancy at her come out six years earlier, but had not been ready to be leg shackled. 


But before Isobel can find true love, she must come to grips with her past mistakes and the people she has hurt along the way. She must discover who she is without the title of duchess to her name.

 About the author:

Okay, I admit it. I am an anglophile. And while I'm in the confessing mood, I'll also admit that I devour Regency Romance novels. Anyone who knows me knows that I am a no-nonsense, independent type with a barely discernible feminine side. But I am a sucker for the understated romance, the English stiff upper lip and the snappy dialogue ala Jane Austen. No overt sex, no bodice ripping, just a good story with great dialogue with an undercurrent of passion. If there is a duke or duchess or even a commoner, a strong female heroine, an equally strong, but not overbearing male hero and the chance of some romantic entanglements, I'm all for it. I like it so much; I decided to write a traditional regency romance novel myself...and enjoyed every minute of it. Hope you enjoy it, too!

Contact the Author: Website