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. 

Biblical nonfiction from Guy Right

Who Told YouThat You Were Naked?

Guy Right

c. 2016

Kindle eBook

$3.99

Buy on Amazon 

About the Book:

Are You Facing Trials & Hard Challenges? Does God want to rescue you? Do you want Him to?

There is a grace revolution sweeping the world - the return to the New Covenant of grace as explained in the Bible. The Bible says that if we have to work for grace then grace is not grace. Grace is the unearned and undeserved favor of God. This book is a product of grace, where it is not our obedience but the obedience of Son of God that provides us with a way out in life when there is simply no way. We are rescued, not because we are good, but because God is good! Are you desperate? Are you suffering and in pain? Is the naked truth about your sins and failures disqualifying you from God’s help? Then you need to know that only the unworthy qualify for God’s grace. If you need to receive God’s help, then this book will change your mind about God and position you to receive the abundant life that Jesus promised.

My Review:

This non-fiction walk through the Bible by the author, a godly Christian businessman, is meant to dispel some of the more common misconceptions, or urban myths, many folks, even other Christians, have held about God. I always approach these types of books, no matter who the author is, leery about biblical interpretation, but I found Who Told You? to be an intriguing and informative read.

From the author’s comment in chapter two, “There is no insignificant detail in the Bible,” to his discourse in chapter sixteen about “natural” disasters, Right shares cross-referenced Old and New Testament verse proofs with resources about how people came to believe certain disparaging untruths about our heavenly Father. I had never heard about the ancient interpretation of the skin with which God replaced Adam and Eve’s clumsy attempt to retrieve their garments of glory they cast off when they gave themselves to Satan’s lies, but it certainly makes sense.

Focusing on the Garden of Eden and the connection to Job specifically, Right discusses the nature of mankind created in God’s image and clothed with glory, and Satan’s lie that we are naked. Always focusing on the act of grace, the author reminds us that God is love and is not the author of disaster, but surrounds us with His protection. Naked we might come into the world, but through God’s redemption, we do not have to depart that way.

Other obscure connections, such as the symbolism the particular stone Satan tempted Jesus with and the number of days between the Ark resting on Ararat and the Passover are certainly interesting for those who enjoy finding codes and marveling at the fascinating writing of the Bible. This book is not for those who are new to the faith or have spent little time in dedicated Bible study. My bottom line is, “Does this information affect my salvation?” The answer here is no. Who Told You? adds some interesting concepts to my faith, but remains consistently on the foundation of the redemptive gift of God’s only Son.

This Month's Clash Champ: Congrats to One Thursday Morning and T.K. Chapin!

Congratulations to T.K. Chapin

and his novel

One Thursday Morning

for taking home this month's Clash crown!

PURCHASE ON Amazon

About the book:
Running not only for her own life, but that of her unborn baby, Serenah moves across the country to a little town outside of Spokane Washington called Newport. It's here she'll begin to build a new life and go by a different name in the hopes of staying hidden from her abusive husband John. Can Serenah find happiness in her new life? Or will the past eventually catch up to her?

From the best-selling Inspirational Christian Romance Author T.K. Chapin comes a story of love, faith and passion that will keep your fingers turning the page to see what happens next.

One Thursday Morning is book one in the Diamond Lake Series by T.K. Chapin.

What Voters had to Say:

Thank you T.K. Chapin for providing real life in your books.

I really like books by T.K.Chapin, Because he writes with a theme of religion and hope. I especially like One Thursday Morning.

Excellent story. I have also read Friday Morning. Good story line Makes me feel like I am at the Lake with them.

T.K. Chapin, I was enticed by the beautiful cover and description of the novel, One Thursday Morning. Can't wait to read it.

I love your stories. Very enjoyable, heartwarming and inspiring. Keep them coming,

I enjoy finding new authors and found T.K. Chapin's writing adding to my authors' list.

I think "One Thursday Morning" by T. K. Chaplin will be one popular book. I love the plot and can't wait to read it.

I love to read and discover new authors. T.K. Chapin is quickly becoming a favorite! He tackles tough topics, and tells the story in such a way as to keep you interested. Ups and downs, twists and turns, T.K. knows how to keep the plot line tight and the story believable and uplifting.

Sounds like a good book. I hope you have a great career!

Keep writing. It helps me escape my everyday life.

TK - love your writing and your interest in your reader's lives.

I love TK CHAPIN books!

Have a blessed week, everyone!

From your friends at Clash of the Titles!

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/

Cuban Christian reflections by Roberto Ornan Roche

The Lighthouse of Asaph

Roberto Ornan Roche

Every year, with the arrival of terrible and threatening hurricanes to the Caribbean, I lose both sleep and joy, fearing that the strong winds might destroy the trees that my father planted almost forty years ago. Already some have been blown down, but others remain, and these trees are among my fondest memories of him. I can recall many occasions when my mother and I were by the door, praying, while the destructive winds outside continued to roar.

When I think of such things, I feel that our faith is like those trees, nurtured by other people. At the same time, new trees are starting to grow, like fresh ideals and good deeds, and perhaps some of these spring up from the seeds that have been stored in those old, demolished trees.

The most important thing in my book is always to discover a new way to rescue faith in the midst of the pain that exists all around.

Buy the Book on Amazon

eBook .99

Paperback 6.50

ISBN-13: 978-0987901118

132 pp

My review

It’s refreshing and energizing to read about the development of a faith life from a different perspective, one that comes from a different culture in another arena. I am too comfortable in my lifestyle and I need to step outside that zone on occasion to truly appreciate what I have been given.

Roche’s joy, fear, and desire to grow and practice his faith glow from the pages. Told through anecdotes, personal revelation, stories of meeting people on the streets where they are, and reflections on Bible verses and stories, such as that of Job (Our Job does not have a story to be told because we spend all day long rejecting it.), The Lighthouse of Asaph will give Christian readers pause. Am I living to my potential where I am, here and now? Roche will help you answer that question as you walk with him in his life as a Cuban Christian living in a land that long despaired yet retained pockets of joy.

About the Author

Roberto Ornan Roche, a Christian writer from Cuba, is an internationally recognized author with stories published in English and Spanish. His book, A Lighthouse of Asaph, is a story collection capturing the emotions and longings of a Cuban heart. The stories were written in an attempt to reconcile the author’s life of faith with a society that discourages it. Born out of fear and sadness, sadness from praying for dreams that were never realized, A Lighthouse of Asaph is a book to encourage you and help you find meaning in your circumstances.

http://unforgettablereflections.com

August 2016 CLASH! vote through Aug 30

Hot! Hot! Hot!
Vote for your Fave!

Scroll through these FOUR new releases and cast your vote for the one you'd pick up first to read.

I know it's hard!

Fight for Liberty by Theresa Linden

Prompted by the inner voice that has guided her for years, Liberty is compelled to bring the freedom she now possesses to others suppressed by the all-controlling government. While unsure of how to carry out this mission, she is willing to risk all to accomplish it.
~~~~~~

An Elegant Facade by Krisit Ann Hunter

Lady Georgina Hawthorne has worked tirelessly to seal her place as the Incomparable for her debut season; with money and business connections, but without impeccable bloodlines, Colin McCrae is invited everywhere but accepted nowhere. As their paths continue to cross, they both must decide if the realization of their dreams is worth the sacrifices they must make.
~~~~~~

Defying Shadows by Ashley Townsend

Sarah travels back to the twelfth century and discovers that a ghost from her past has returned to Serimone, intent on changing the future. Time is quickly running out to stop him, and her life is put on the line as she must decide between returning to the safety of her world, and entrusting her future with a hero of the past as they attempt to save history.

~~~~~~

One Thursday Morning by T.K. Chapin

Running not only for her own life, but that of her unborn baby, Serenah moves across the country to a little town outside of Spokane Washington called Newport. It's here she'll begin to build a new life and go by a different name in the hopes of staying hidden from her abusive husband John.

~~~~~~

VOTE HERE!

If you have trouble viewing the entire survey, August 2016 Clash Survey click here to load a dedicated page to the survey

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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