Prism Book Group Love Is series A Haven in the Woods

Love Is Number 11: Love always protects

1 Corinthians 13:4-8a New International Version (NIV)  

4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is no tproud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 8. Love never fails

A Haven in the Woods

Nancy Bolton

Novella, romance

$2.99 eBook

Buy on Amazon - http://amzn.to/2dcG2Td

Print collection coming soon

About the Book

Ellen is running away. Heartbroken and carrying the ever growing shame of her foolishness in trusting a man, she rents a remote cabin in the woods. All she needs to do is survive until the baby is born. Once that happens she’ll be free to start a new job and a new life. The last thing she expected was to be pulling out her gun on a strange man walking out of the woods.

Robert loves the solitude of the mountains. Tracking the wildlife with only his dog for company. It’s not the profitable career his family would desire for him. He wished they’d understand. But the woman in the cabin, while an annoyance, also concerns him. She’s not prepared for the brutal winter in the mountains. And pregnant? He resolves to help her.

Robert falls for the taciturn woman and even more for the child she carries. When her home is destroyed he brings her to his…offering protection and shelter from the harsh winter. He can’t understand why she won’t talk about the baby, or make plans for it.

Can two lonely souls trapped together, testing the limits of solitude and friendship, find true love?

My Review

All of the books in this series connected only by a Bible verse are based on one aspect of First Corinthians 13:4-8. Bolton’s romantic novella uses love “always protects,” and takes place deep in the Appalachians. Ellen and Robert have both decided to take a break from the harshness of society and chosen to battle nature instead. Brutal, beautiful, predictable in the change of season, each needs a chance to be alone in order to assess their individual wounds, and then to heal. Winding up as unexpected neighbors, Robert has the advantage of a cabin with a working stove to protect him from winter’s blast, while Ellen must learn that there are heroes in the world, and that trust is not overrated. That lesson comes hard to both of them.

Robert is one of those too-good-to-be-true superheroes I adore. Yes, he has grown from a wounded heart, yes he’s stubborn, but that’s what gets him back on the road to life. Who doesn’t love a man who’s willing to give everything for an infant? Ellen comes from a bubble that is difficult to break from, and yet, when she does manage to free herself, she realizes that freedom can have overwhelming consequences. As a faith-filled couple, they are better at facing life head-on, meeting their obligations and serving the Lord with joy together.

Bolton’s lush setting paints a perfect backdrop for these people who learn that protecting each other, no matter who they came together, as well as living under the protection of God’s wings, makes life worth living. Told in multiple viewpoints from the perspectives of the main characters, this sweet novella clips right along at a quick pace. Full and satisfying, readers will root for both Robert and Ellen, even in the darkest moments.

Enjoy an Excerpt

She kept the gun aimed at him. “Stay off my property or I’ll shoot you.”

“Technically, I’m standing on my land.” His calm voice didn’t fit with having a gun trained on him. He pointed at a small orange flag affixed to a rod in the ground near him. “The survey marker shows where your land starts and mine ends. Also, you can’t just shoot someone in New York State for stepping onto your property.”

He seemed like a reasonable person, but didn’t people always say psychopaths were good at appearing normal? She continued to point the gun at him. “I can shoot anyone I think means to harm me.”

“Well, that wouldn’t be me.” He shrugged and gave a brisk flip of his hand. “See ya.”

About the Author

Nancy Shew Bolton is a wife of 42 years, mother of five grown sons, and grandmother to a boy and girl. Ever since she learned to write, she would jot down her thoughts and impressions in little snippets of inspiration in the form of poetry, song lyrics, or short essays. About six years ago, she decided to try her hand at writing a full-length book. She’s since written five works of fiction, two non-fiction, and is working on an idea for a children’s book, as well as more fiction manuscripts. Writing a full-length work is much more challenging than she thought, and she has received so much valuable assistance from other writers, especially from the ACFW critique groups. Her husband has been supportive of her long hours spent at the keyboard. Many thanks to her beloved Johnny! She thanks God and His Son for her life, her loved ones and the spark of creativity inside every person. She believes each person is a unique creation, with their own special voice and place in this amazing universe. God’s handiwork amazes her every day!

Historical romance with Nancy Bolton

Answering Sarah

Nancy Shew Bolton

 

Prism Book Group

2016

Print $14.99

ISBN  978-1533575661

Ebook $3.99

Buy on Amazon

Historical fiction

About the book: After a fire destroys their home when she was a girl, Sarah’s family rebuilds their lives, yet the echoes of the fire’s damage remain. Sarah learned to turn inward, and keep her curious mind to herself, asking God all the questions that her own father used to delight in. But the fire silenced her father, and spread the stillness to the rest of them. Yet Sarah longs to express herself, to find answers to all her questions. A new, young pastor arrives, and captivates her heart. The prospect of a challenging and unexpected life dances before her, but then is held out of her reach. And with the new possibilities come questions she’s never asked herself before. Is she ready for the answers?

My Review:

What a delightful though slower-paced historical romance. Bolton uses interesting antagonists to weave the two love interests into a true cord of three strands throughout a courtship to their wedding.

I love a too-good-to-be-true hero. While true that the pastor, Mark, must undergo a transformation from his initial declaration of pure service to God to that of sharing his life with a God-ordained helpmeet, he does so with little struggle. Even the temptation of being with Sarah and the major obstacles in their way are a bloodless coup. But I meant what I said. I enjoyed this pastor’s maturity and would love to learn at his feet. Our heroine, Sarah, has all the right ingredients, too, in a youthful and spunky joie de vivre. Her solutions to handling her parents are a good lesson for us all. Her deep-seated faith life was truly inspirational.

Bolton’s setting of small town America during late settlement is a good microcosm of personalities and opinions. I was afraid for the fate of the library, and am only slightly shocked that times haven’t changed all that much. A local book club I belong to tries to read at least one “banned” book a year—only they keep changing! Readers will have to check this book for some sweet and entertaining way to deal with curmudgeons.

Answering Sarah is told through the eyes of both Sarah and Mark. Sarah learns not only to ask her questions at the right time and place, but to learn when silence is a golden, mature option. I enjoyed this story, and though it is quite long, it didn’t feel as though it dragged and kept me reading into the next chapters even when I knew my time was up. Recommended for those who enjoy rural and rustic historical romance that takes its sweet time to be told by achingly sweet and respectable characters who know when to pull the reins and when to smack them.

About the Author:
Nancy Shew Bolton is a wife of 43 years, mother of five grown sons, and grandmother to a boy and girl. Ever since she learned to write, she would jot down her thoughts and impressions in little snippets of inspiration in the form of poetry, song lyrics, or short essays. About six years ago, she decided to try her hand at writing a full length book. She’s since written five works of fiction, two non-fiction, and is working on an idea for a children’s book, as well as more fiction manuscripts. 

Crystal Stuart from Time Trap by Danele Rotharmel

An interview with Crystal Stuart

Character from Time Trap by Danele J. Rotharmel

Today, I’m talking with Crystal Stuart, a lab technician from the Temporal Counseling Program at National Science University. Crystal, I’ve heard that there’s an emergency at TEMCO. Can you confirm that two cadets have been kidnapped and that Director Peter Matthews and Dr. Laura Nelson have been sent through a time portal to investigate?

I’m sorry, Lisa, but I’m not at liberty to say. Commenting on the current situation could be extremely dangerous. As you know, TEMCO deals with time travel, and if we don’t handle things with extreme caution, the entire timeline could be jeopardized. I’m sure you understand.

Yes, I do. Let’s change topics. Marc Kerry, a professional time counselor with the TEMCO program, has become a popular figure in Washington D.C. Is it true that you’re dating him?

Wow! I’m not sure how that particular rumor started. Marc and I have never dated. Our interactions have been rocky, to say the least. In fact, we didn’t even speak to each other for four years. In the past, I wouldn’t even classify us as friends.

You said “in the past.” Have things changed recently?

Well… Lately, we’ve gotten along better. I used to think that Marc was pretty egotistical, but I’ve discovered that he’s actually a very nice man with an extremely kind heart. I’ve been told that we’ll be working together in the future. I’m looking forward to it.

Would you be willing to date him?

I can’t deny that Marc is extremely handsome. Nor can I deny that I like him now. But, Lisa, look at me! I’m not his type at all. He always goes for glamorous, gorgeous girls. I’m just a lab tech with big glasses. He’s out of my league, and I know it. It’s nice of you to think I could catch his eye, but we’re not living in a fantasy dreamland. Things like that just don’t happen in real life.

What would you say if I told you that I’ve heard he’s attracted to you?

I wouldn’t say anything, Lisa. I’d just laugh. If your sources told you that, you may need to check them for accuracy. You know that I enjoy crunching numbers, and I’ve run the statistics. Statistically, there’s less than a 7.8 percent chance of Marc asking me for a date.

You may be surprised.

Possibly, but not likely. I deal with facts, and it’s a fact that I’m not Marc’s type. Gracious! It’s also a fact that I’m late! It’s been a delight talking with you, Lisa, but I need to get back to the lab. I can’t talk about TEMCO’s current situation, but it’s extremely urgent. I’m sorry, but I have to go.

I understand. Thanks for speaking with us, Crystal. Best wishes with the current situation.

About Time Trap:

When problems arise during a field exam, Director Peter Matthews and Dr. Laura Nelson are sent through a time portal to investigate.  While they search for their missing cadets, they encounter an enemy who is calculating and brutal—a mysterious nemesis who is holding a grudge against the TEMCO program.  As Peter and Laura race to unravel clues directing them to their kidnapped cadets, their own survival comes into question.  A deadly trap has been set, and they are forced to pit their wits against a serial killer who is intent on playing a deadly chess game through time itself. 

Prism Book Group

$3.99 eBook

$16.99 Print

Buy on:

Amazon

Barnes& Noble

About the Author

Danele Rotharmel grew up with a love of the literary word, and by age five, she knew she wanted to be a writer. However, her life took an unexpected turn when a mysterious illness brought her close to death. Eventually, she learned that a low-level carbon monoxide leak from a faulty furnace in her home was slowly poisoning her. This poisoning triggered severe Multiple Chemical Sensitivity and partial amnesia.

      

During this time, the hardest thing she faced was a crisis of faith. She had to quit her job and stop going to church. She couldn’t write, couldn’t drive, and could barely remember who she was. To say she was upset with the Lord was an understatement. She began reexamining her faith in light of her illness, and eventually, she came to the firm conclusion that God is real, God is good, God is interested and involved, and God is trustworthy regardless of tragedy.

      

When her illness became even more severe, she was put into quarantine and could only talk to friends and extended family through the glass of a window. This quarantine lasted for seven years. During this time, she wrote the first six books in The Time Counselor Chronicles.

      

Danele currently lives in Colorado where she continues to write. Although her journey back to health was long and difficult, it provided her with the opportunity to grow closer to God and to write her books. For that, she is forever thankful. You can learn more about Danele by visiting https://dragonflydanele.wordpress.com/

Connect with Danele:

Testimony: https://dragonflydanele.wordpress.com/welcome/

Books: https://dragonflydanele.wordpress.com/my-books/

Susan Baganz and The Baron's Blunder Regency Romance

We're up to Book Number 10 in the Love Is series!
In a departure from contemporary romance, author Susan Baganz gives us a charming Regency read.

Enjoy! Love does not delight in evil, I Corinthians 9:

About the Book:

The Baron’s Blunder

“Love does not delight in evil …” 1 Corinthians: 13:6

Fighting evil has been a hobby, but fending off marriage-minded women—a chore. 

Lord Charles Percy fends off a highwayman robbing a carriage in broad daylight. Noting that he’s rescued a debutante, he lies about his title claiming to be a mere mister. But the Honorable Henrietta Allendale is suspicious that something is false in spite of his act of heroism on her behalf. She didn’t need a man to fight her battles. So why can’t she stop thinking about him? 

Meeting again in London, Lord Percy begins to enjoy the verbal sparring with the intrepid young woman and his heart is soon captivated as well. But he’s playing a deep game and her presence in his life puts hers at risk. When a successful rescue results in possible scandal, the baron’s biggest challenge will be to convince the marriage-adverse young woman that his love is true. 

Ebook: $2.99

Bundled print coming soon

Buy on Amazon

My Review:

Charming and delightful…and sinister and layered. On the outside, Henri tries to be the lady of repute her upstanding family deserves. But her country deserves so much more, and there must be something she can do to protect the innocent. Who would suspect a high-ranking woman playing such a dangerous game? Certainly not a dodgy character who keeps her from using her pistol to defend herself.

Henri, who can take care of herself, thank you, learns her rescuer misrepresented himself, and acquainted with her brother to boot, sinking her opinion of him lower than low. But when her innocence combined with hotheadedness gets her in trouble, the game shifts. She’s offered a choice that will allow her to continue her service to her country on one condition, dependent on overcoming her opinion of the baron who blundered upon first acquaintance.

Sweet story of first impressions and misconceptions working together and adding up to a greater cause. Told in alternating viewpoints, the story is fast-paced and true to the historical style this author excels in. Watch for her upcoming Regency series.

You would think the author of countless romance stories would find it easy to write one out of her own life. But it’s not.

Growing up, I would walk home and look up to heaven, spin around, and wonder if God was taking my picture. Did He care for my overly-sensitive, hurting and lonely heart? All a teacher had to do was look at me wrong and I’d burst into tears until sixth grade when I learned to hide my pain.

The sweetest love story is when, after years of sensing God’s call to me, I finally understood that I could respond. That he was waiting for me to do so! James 4:8 says “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. (NASB)” Really? He wasn’t some distant King high on a thrown beyond my reach. I first came to understand this at a Campus Life/Youth for Christ meeting.

For weeks I had begged some friends to let me come to a meeting. They seemed happy. They had something I didn’t. And they would go to concerts for groups like . . . Petra, who I had never heard of. Finally, I was invited and we had a conversation about misconceptions people had about Christianity. I was raised knowing about God and taught to fear Him, so I was fully engaged in the conversation. Then the biggest misconception hit me—that people didn’t understand that they could have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

Whoa. Really?

I prayed right then and there and my entire world shifted.

I went out and bought a Bible and started devouring it. Opposition came but I clung to Christ. To a hurting, lonely fifteen-year-old, the fact that the God of the universe wanted me—Me?—was a huge revelation. When depression plagued me, I was told I was trying to manipulate people. The only reason I never attempted to take my life was because of the love of God.

Thirty-five years have brought me through many trials and triumphs, deep pains and sweet moments. God has been there by my side through all of it. I wish I could say that I’ve been as faithful to Him as He has been to me. It’s hard when people have wounded me deeply to trust the God who allowed it to happen. Yet I wouldn’t be here without Him. He’s led me, grown me, matured me . . . and I’ve learned that in Him I have more strength than I could ever have on my own. Some trials I look back on in wonder at how I was able to respond the way I did. That couldn’t have been me, could it?

Only God.

Through abuses, betrayals, heartache, He has been my constant. My one true love. When I write my romances my hope and prayer is that at some level the reader will understand the love of God that underlies the journey’s my characters take.

God is faithful. He has never abandoned me. The fact that He gives me the opportunity to put some of those experiences into my stories to bless others is just another example of His love for me.

  

About the Author:

Susan M. Baganz chases after three Hobbits and is a native of Wisconsin. She is an Acquisitions Editor with Prism Book Group specializing in bringing great romance novels and novellas to publication. Susan writes adventurous historical and contemporary romances with a biblical world-view. Visit http://susanbaganz.com

Talking with Marc Kerry from Time Trap by Danele Rotharmel

Meet Marc Kerry

Character from Time Trap by Danele J. Rotharmel

Today, I’m talking with Marc Kerry, a professional time counselor with the Temporal Counseling Program at National Science University. Marc, can you tell us what time counseling entails?

Sure, Lisa! Time counseling is a unique—and sometimes dangerous—profession. TEMCO’s main objective is targeting death-row offenders for time-based counseling. It’s my job to travel back through time and counsel criminals while they’re children. Many times, I’m able to put the children on a better path so that when they grow up, they avoid a life of crime.

You mentioned that time counseling can be dangerous. How so?

Sometimes, time counselors encounter unexpected events. For instance, a few years ago, a student cadet encountered a serial killer during her field exam. Gil almost lost her life.

Has anything like that happened to you?

I’m happy to say that it hasn’t. But a time counselor always has to be prepared. Danger is part of the job.

Does TEMCO take precautions to keep you safe?

Of course! Since Gil’s deadly assignment, time counselors always travel in pairs. And student cadets are no longer allowed to handle criminal cases—they’re assigned suicide preventions. Speaking of which, two cadets, Phoebe and Drake, are about to tackle their field exam. I just ran into them on campus. Director Matthews and Dr. Nelson were going to tie up some last-minute details and then send them through a temporal portal.

Will Phoebe and Drake be in danger?

Probably not. Danger isn’t likely during a cadet-handled suicide prevention. Besides, TEMCO has top-notch lab technicians who constantly monitor the timeline. This helps ensure the safety of time counselors in the field.

Marc, you blushed when you mentioned TEMCO’s lab technicians. I’ve heard that one of the techs, Crystal Stuart, has caught your eye.

That may be true, but I’m not sure what to do about it. Crystal and I had a fight several years ago, and she refuses to talk with me.

If you try hard enough, I’m sure you can patch things up and grab her attention.

I don’t know, Lisa. I’d like to think that my famous “Kerry Charisma” could charm her, but Cris has a mind of her own—and that stubborn mind of hers is determined to hold a grudge. I wish she’d forgive me. She’s a fascinating woman.

Marc, thank you so much for talking with me. I want to wish you luck on your next assignment…and also luck with Crystal.

Thank you, Lisa! I appreciate it.

About Time Trap:

 When problems arise during a field exam, Director Peter Matthews and Dr. Laura Nelson are sent through a time portal to investigate.  While they search for their missing cadets, they encounter an enemy who is calculating and brutal—a mysterious nemesis who is holding a grudge against the TEMCO program.  As Peter and Laura race to unravel clues directing them to their kidnapped cadets, their own survival comes into question.  A deadly trap has been set, and they are forced to pit their wits against a serial killer who is intent on playing a deadly chess game through time itself. 

Prism Book Group

$3.99 eBook

$16.99 Print

Buy on:

Amazon

Barnes& Noble

 About Danele J. Rotharmel 

Danele Rotharmel’s life took an unexpected turn when a mysterious illness brought her close to death. Eventually, she learned that a carbon monoxide leak from a faulty furnace was poisoning her. This poisoning triggered Multiple Chemical Sensitivity causing her to be put in quarantine. For seven years, she could only talk to friends and extended family through a windowpane. During this time, she wrote the first six books in The Time Counselor Chronicles.  Although her journey back to health was difficult, it provided her the opportunity to grow closer to God and write her books. For that, she’s forever thankful. To learn more about Danele, visit her blog:  

https://dragonflydanele.wordpress.com/

Meet Danele on the web:

Testimony: https://dragonflydanele.wordpress.com/welcome/

Books: https://dragonflydanele.wordpress.com/my-books/

Carlene Havel and Love Keeps No Wrongs

St. Paul took a whole chapter in I Corinthians listing various hallmarks of love. Rather than attempt a pat definition, he revealed some of love’s many facets, turning it over and over as one might a brilliant, perfectly-cut diamond.

Since love is such a broad topic, let’s zero in on one aspect—romantic love. When a special person makes the heart beat faster, regardless of the season of life, we begin to question our emotions. Am I in love? How will I know when it happens? How can I be sure when it is the real thing? Living a few years teaches us romantic love is accompanied with tender feelings, but that “gushy” feeling alone is not enough to stand the test of time. Love is more. Real romance involves two people who care enough for each to put the other ahead of themselves. In a “me first” instant gratification world, that kind of commitment is rare. Yet it is the kind of giving, sharing love we hunger for at our very core.

Do I love him? Does he love me? A simple test would be to consider each of the characteristics of love from I Corinthians. Are we kind to each other? Are we patient with each other? And so on.   Many heartbreaks could be avoided by thinking through that Biblical checklist, and turning away from a relationship with too many “no” answers. Another person’s love is not directly measurable.  We can’t take out a yardstick and see how it stacks up. Instead, we observe love by its impact. Oscar Hammerstein II is credited with this little rhyme that captures a singular way of looking at love:   

“A bell is not a bell till you ring it.

A song is not a song till you sing it.

Love in your heart isn’t put there to stay.

Love isn’t love till you give it away.”

Prism Book Group’s “Love Is…” series takes its inspiration from I Corinthians chapter 13.  Eventually there will be a short novel that takes its theme from one of the aspects of true love. My contribution to this series is Evidence Not Seen inspired by “Love keeps no record of wrongs.” Or, if you prefer the lyrical language of the old King James translation, “thinketh no evil.” I hope those who read my story find it to be true to that sentiment.  

In the final analysis, we are left with faith, hope, and love. What a marvelous trilogy! And the greatest, of course, is love. May we all practice it faithfully, daily, unrelentingly. Love never fails.

  

Check out Carlene’s contribution to Prism Book Group’s new Love Is series…

Evidence Not Seen

“Love keeps no record of wrongs…” 1 Corinthians: 13:5

Although attorney Jeff Galloway’s career is in high gear, his personal life is a mess. Just before his father returns home from a 27-year stretch in prison, his girlfriend dumps him. When a chance encounter begins to blossom into new romance, soft-hearted Melanie Clark encourages Jeff to find a way to forgive his father’s long absence.

My review:

A not-so-secret family secret leads to the lifetime estrangement of a young man from his father. Devotion to his mother justifies Jeff’s choice to keep utter disillusionment and resentment for his imprisoned dad shining bright all his adult life. Given his professional career as an attorney, Jeff has faith in the system, and there was never any hint to believe any other way than his father is a criminal, guilty of a hefty bank theft. The money was never found. When his father’s sentence is up, Jeff reluctantly collects him from jail and brings him back home where he witnesses a strangely joyful reunion between his parents. No condemnation, no shame, just joy.

Jeff’s position allows for financial comfort, and when he meets a young social worker set out to right the wrongs of society, he’s intrigued. The first chance encounter through a private office party turns into more encounters and a rescue operation for an errand of mercy and a strange connection with one of Melanie’s young clients. Jeff enjoys Melanie’s tactics to do the best she can and even attempts to overcome his lifelong unreasonable hatred of hospitals. As the two begin to spend more time together, Jeff realizes everything in his life has been an illusion. Not only is Jeff encouraged to forgive the past, he’s encouraged to look at his father from a different angle and in so doing, he is able to find and live with newfound purpose.

I loved this couple, their growing respect for each other, Jeff’s developing character and his ability to hurdle the barriers he’s set up for himself. Sometimes we have to explore why we believe what we do, not just our faith in God, but our faith in each other, even when misguided. Not everything is what it seems, and Jeff is able to journey toward a more healthy place with Melanie’s unconditional love. Told mostly through Jeff’s viewpoint with an occasional dip into his mother’s perspective, this addition to the Love Is novellas explores the theme of “keeping no record of wrongs” in a fresh and compelling way. Great short read that felt well-paced and complete.

Enjoy this short excerpt:

.     “Melanie!” The urge to sweep her into his arms was so strong he didn’t trust himself to move. “I brought you flowers,” he said at last. He half expected a smart alack response.

Instead, her brilliant smile made his knees feel weak. This can’t be happening, he thought. Is this what it feels like to fall in love?

Breaking Barriers, with Gail Pallotta

Breaking Barriers

Love Is series novella 8

Gail Pallotta

Love is…not easily angered.

Except when hatred and violence rule.

Gunshots ring out as Ann Jones enters the church. She hides in the bathroom until they stop, then stumbles into the sanctuary. The congregation lies dead in pools of blood. To rebuild the church, she starts True Light Guardians. At the first meeting, she’s attacked by a terrorist, but rescued by James Crawford. He melts her heart, cold from her father’s abuse, and they fall for each other. She’s afraid to commit to love that might grow angry later, like the type she knew as a child. James yearns to stop other attempts on Ann’s life, but can’t. Tormented by her constant risks, he breaks up with her. When an assault sends her to the hospital, an unlikely ally shares Ann’s plight with James, but he reveals a lead that puts all three of them in even more danger.

Inspirational romance novella

Near future events

$2.99 eBook Buy on Amazon

Bundled Print coming in the future

When I was in college I used to run into an atheist in the small cafe where we gathered for Coca-Colas, hamburgers and French fries after class. I tried to avoid him, because he always hopped over to my table and started an argument about my faith.

Perhaps he comes to mind on the release day of Breaking Barriers for several reasons. One, he was angry at me because I am a Christian. Even though today I can’t recall which verses he used, he’d take passages from the Bible and try to make me say they weren’t true. When I wouldn’t, he’d retort with a scientific argument and claim it had to be right.

The second reason he comes to mind—it was the mention of God’s love that finally silenced him. One day I grew so frustrated I asked, “If there’s no God, where does love come from? Why don’t you mix me up a little bowl of it? If scientists could do it, they would, because they could sell a ton of it for lots of money.”

His mouth gaped.

He never trotted to my table again.

Since then I’ve read that we have chemicals in the brain that produce love. I’ve often wondered if he came up with that theory. Even if that were true, the chemicals in the brain came from somewhere, and that would still lead back to God. I hope it wasn’t him. I hope he thought about God’s great love for us and decided to read the Bible. 

Lisa's review:

In the very near future Christians in the US are targeted for destruction. Ann knows, or thinks she knows many who could be likely culprits when she’s being stalked and attempts made on her sanity and life. When she takes on the job of leading disenfranchised and now underground church members in a new united effort to save the faith, attempts on the people of faith ramp up. The new man in Ann’s life, James, shows her not only how to practice what she preaches, but also how to trust God and let go of painful mistrust she’s carried since childhood. Ann’s stubbornness about her personal safety gives James more angst than he believes he can handle.

The story contains some humor mixed in with the real possibilities of future and present attacks. We’re not as safe as we think we are. Pallotta’s story is told through several viewpoints and focus on the gentle and growing love between two people caught up in frightening events outside of what we’ve come to accept as reasonable and expected safety. The goons might provide a little comic relief, but the potential situations underscore a general lack of respect that seems rampant in these times. When Ann can’t trust family, boss, workmates, maybe not even colleagues or friends, what’s left? A short novella will transport readers into a realm where trust not only relies on being able to sort out feelings, but also on faith.

Time Trap by Danele Rotharmel

Time Trap

By Danele J. Rotharmel

Time Travel/Romance

$3.99 eBook/$16.99 print

ISBN: 978-1-943104-56-7

When problems arise during a field exam, Director Peter Matthews and Dr. Laura Nelson are sent through a time portal to investigate. While they search for their missing cadets, they encounter an enemy who is calculating and brutal—a mysterious nemesis who is holding a grudge against the TEMCO program. As Peter and Laura race to unravel clues directing them to their kidnapped cadets, their own survival comes into question. A deadly trap has been set, and they are forced to pit their wits against a serial killer who is intent on playing a deadly chess game through time itself.

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Amazon   Smashwords     Barnes and Noble LISA: Danielle, I love your series premise, though I wondered about how some of the travels worked. Can you share with us some of your conundrums? DANELE: Conundrums were definitely on my mind when I wrote Time Trap. You see, at the time, I was very ill—so ill that I was quarantined in my home. I literally talked to people through the window glass. Quarantine wasn’t fun, and it lasted a long time--seven years. Now, what does quarantine have to do with the conundrums in Time Trap? Everything! My whole life while I was writing Time Trap was a conundrum. That’s why I included so many in my story. You see, before I became ill, I served God faithfully. I expected Him to keep me from harm. Instead, I became so sick that I almost died. I had to quit my job and stop driving my car. I couldn’t go to church, to stores, to restaurants, or out with my friends. I was shut up inside my house like some sort of weird zoo exhibit. I felt so much despair that I turned my back on God, but eventually, I reconciled my faith and my circumstances. When I wrote Time Trap, I explored some of my questions about God. And as the years of isolation slowly passed, I learned several truths. I learned that God is faithful. I learned that He will stand by us even when we temporarily lose faith in Him. I learned that this life is truly a momentary vapor. Pain comes, and pain goes—but God remains the same. And most of all, I learned that when we are in the middle of a trial, we can’t always see the great things that are just up ahead. I thought God was being mean when He allowed me to become ill, but what I’ve learned is that God allowed me to walk that painful path because He knew it was going to lead to something beautiful. During quarantine, I had time to draw closer to God. I studied the Bible and memorized vast quantities of Scripture. What I went through was painful, but it was beneficial. Besides my spiritual transformation, Quarantine also gave me the time I needed to write my books. During those long, painful years, I wrote the first six books in The Time Counselor Chronicles (Time Trap is book two). If I hadn’t been ill, my books probably wouldn’t have been written. Quarantine also opened up a path of ministry. Because of the publication of my books, I started a blog, and on https://dragonflydanele.wordpress.com/, I discuss the lessons I learned during my illness. My blog is being read around the world. If my life hadn’t unfolded in the way that it did, I never would have had the opportunity to touch so many people for the Lord. Life isn’t fair. Life hurts. If we only look at the pain, we can become bitter toward God. But if we quiet ourselves and trust that everything will be okay, we learn that Romans 8:28 isn’t just a nice verse—it’s a powerful reality. God will turn every hurtful, confusing thing in our lives into something beautiful if we let Him. Our responsibility is to hold on and trust that God is real, God is good, God is concerned about everything that happens to us, and God is trustworthy. When we hold onto these truths, we can face the conundrums in life with peace—and even with joy. That’s what I have learned, and that’s what I tried to express in Time Trap.

My review:

Another romance amidst the astounding horror of a TEMCO project gone horribly awry. When a time counselor works to save a vulnerable teen in the near past, they unwittingly unleash a murderer who will stop at nothing to exact revenge on all those blamed for removing the object of desire. 

Book Two in the Time Counselor series takes a dramatic and gruesome turn even while loose ends are woven throughout and the future personas of those involved not only reach back to help at the exact right moments, but look fondly upon unfolding events. This begs the question, which is addressed in the story, of whether and especially why not prevent catastrophe when able to do so. Shouldn't suffering be avoided when possible? The answer is one for the ages and the subject of good discussion.

Told in multiple viewpoints in voices from the past and future, readers of the series, and new readers will welcome old friends and nemeses, find new villains to keep you awake at night, and a fluid, highly intertwined and entertaining visit to the future, the past, and a dramatic present as the founder of TEMCO is both available and unavailable to help his staff during their most dire project so far. Be warned: This ride is not for the faint of heart, despite the occasional lighter moments during the pursuit of true soulmates and the search for everlasting love. I especially enjoyed the creative clues used to track the murderer. Recommended for those who love a good conundrum with a truly warped antagonist and uber determined victors.

Talking Love with Paula Mowery and Crux of Honor

We’re told in Scripture that God is love. He definitely proved His kind of love is an unconditional and undeserved type through sending His Son to die for our sins.

Some love isn’t hard to conjure. God just helps us to enhance it. For example, I am still head-over-heels in love with my husband of twenty-six years. But through God’s Word and leading, I’ve learned to love my husband more like God planned for a wife to love her husband.

When my little girl was born, I was in love, even though it took a lot to get her here. But God has shown me how to love my daughter through example and discipline.

I struggled with infertility issues before finally conceiving my only daughter. My bitterness heightened each time I would hear about a young woman or girl who conceived out of wedlock and by accident. I cried out to God that this wasn’t fair. I wanted a baby and would care for that child and love that child, giving her a mother and a father.

Some years later I was approached by the director of our church association’s Pregnancy Crisis Center to become their devotional leader. I struggled with my answer for a bit but knew God was pushing me to do this.

As I shared about the love of God and then listened to these girls tell their stories, I had to repent of my former bitterness. God taught me to love and care for these girls and their babies. They each had a story with hopes and dreams of their own.

Everyone deserves to know about the unconditional love God offers. This is what I hope readers see in the story, The Crux of Honor.

Since God is love, when we allow Him to teach us His kind of love, we can’t help but be richer and enrich others.

Check out Paula’s contribution to Prism Book Group’s new Love Is series…

The Crux of Honor

“Love does not dishonor…” 1 Corinthians: 13:4

Chelsea Wilson’s life is a constant reminder of what living dishonorably looks like. At every turn she continues to prove her mother’s shunning must be deserved. 

Dr. Kevin Alley returns to the old home place to establish his medical practice. After running into Chelsea, he knows his love for her is still strong. 

Chelsea is ousted from her small rented room when her mother bursts in, proclaiming Chelsea’s pregnancy. 

Kevin takes Chelsea in, giving her space to live on the upper level of his house. 

When Chelsea’s baby displays life-threatening symptoms, Chelsea must face her mother. Secrets unfold about Chelsea’s parents. Can Chelsea and Kevin uncover the secrets linked to Amish heritage in time to save the baby? Can the two find love together despite their history? 

My review:

Mowery’s addition to the Love Is series is a complicated, multi-layered story focused on the theme of dishonor…and ultimately, true honor. Fear and shame unchecked is the cause of the day. It’s hard to figure out who’s the real bad guy and good guy. Chelsea is a victim, certainly, who made poor choices and reaps the reward of a surprise child. Mother comes off as a true villain, damaging her daughter emotionally out of absolute terror Chelsea will make the same mistakes she did. But no one knows the depth of those mistakes until it’s almost too late.

Chelsea’s father hides while another man steps in to care for his adult daughter. Kevin has always loved Chelsea and slowly unravels the tangles of miscommunication that drove them apart. Ready to see through all of Chelsea’s misery and guide her out of it, Kevin also slowly woos her and is prepared to walk with her and her child as a true family. But Kevin must also risk patient confidentiality when he needs to get to the bottom of the baby’s medical condition.

Told from multiple viewpoints, Mowery does a wonderful job portraying all the angst of Chelsea and her sea of emotions during this incredibly emotional and physically painful passage into motherhood. Be prepared to experience mixed feelings about everyone as their true motivations are gradually peeled back. A poignant story in short form, those who enjoy a rollercoaster read will enjoy Crux of Honor.

Stand alone ebook Buy Crux of Honor on Amazon

Bundled for Print with two other Love Is books coming soon.

www.prismbookgroup.com