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By: Mark Miller,
on 5/14/2015
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Here we go - the cover reveal and some exciting information about my newest book!
Gratitude Renewed is a personal journal of faith and healing. By journal, I mean that you, the reader, are going to be doing some of the writing. This book is meant as a tool to start your own journey of renewal. The idea for this book came from the Lazarus Filmworks motion picture God, Where Are You?, staring Wade Wilson and Kibwe Dorsey. My co-author on this book and father, De Miller, also wrote and directed the movie. In this movie, the main character feels that God has abandoned him. He then receives Gratitude Renewed as a gift with instructions to fill the pages with his life.
Gratitude Renewed will be available in paperback for you to do the same. If you know someone having troubles in their life, this book could be the blessing on which they are waiting.
Synopsis: This is not a traditional self-help book. It is a life plan designed to renew gratitude and strengthen faith. The authors of this book are not trained psychologists or ordained clergy (although they got lots of input from the pros). They are a father and son with a combined one hundred years (plus) experience of Life. They have faced challenges, experienced failure and explored their faith.
There are several journal pages included at the end of each chapter. They are intentionally left blank for you, the reader, to fill.
Gratitude Renewed is already garnering praise through reviews and endorsements:“It is well written and easy to understand and is prospectively a great self-help tool.”Theda Sturm, M.S., L.M.F.T., In Harmony Counseling
“Mark and De have a great gift in writing given to them by God. What a blessing...from God.”Gilbert Remington, Appointee Minister, Semi-Retired, Community of Christ Church
“Putting the principles from the book into action will renew the gratitude and help you discover the blessings in your life. I recommend this book to any individual that wants to live on the other side of why in a land called peace.” Mark Payne, Pastor, No Limits Church, Lake Mary, FL
“...an interactive challenge to their readers that will have them reexamining their lives and turning those lives around.” 5 StarsJack Magnus, Author, for Reader’s Favorite
“...a very motivational and positive read.” 5 StarsCharity Tober, Author, for Reader’s Favorite
“...you really feel like you’re learning something without a lot of extra noise...definitely a book I will hold onto for a long time.” 4 StarsSamantha Dewitt, Reviewer for Reader’s Favorite
(includes FREE shipping and a personalized autograph)
Coming soon to Amazon and other online book sellers
May Contain Spoilers
Review:
I don’t read many inspirational romances, but I stumbled upon Karen Witemeyer a while back, and I really enjoyed her writing. When I saw Head in the Clouds at the library, I thought it sounded cute, so I checked it out. I could relate to Adelaide, a young woman looking for her very own hero. Charmed by Jane Eyre and other novels, she longs for a man to protect her and take care of her. What she finds is even better; she discovers the love of her life, but she also finds the strength to protect and care for herself and her loved ones.
Adelaide has fallen in love with the idea of being in love, so she quits her teaching job and follows her destiny to Fort Worth. Only once she arrives, she discovers that the man she’s been pining for is married and has a family. Humiliated and angry with herself for allowing her impulsive nature to leave her without a job or a place to live, she answers an advertisement in the newspaper to be the governess to a sheep rancher’s daughter. Before she can blink, she’s headed to central Texas with two other applicants, to meet both Gideon, the sheep rancher, and his daughter, Isabella. Talk about a stressful job interview! It took two days of hard travel to reach her destination, and then she had to vie against two women with more experience and better teaching credentials than she possessed!
After charming Isabella and the rest of the rest of the household, she scores the job. Now she learns that Isabella hasn’t spoken a word in months, and she’s mourning the death of her mother. Adelaide is determined to help Isabella out of the shell she’s surrounded herself in, and help her find joy and laugher once again. Adelaide’s teaching methods, which utilized role-playing and creative play, were fun to read about. I loved the teacher – student interactions. Isabella has had an unhappy time, and she’s having a hard time being a kid. Adelaide slowly and patiently draws her out of her shell, much to Gideon’s delight.
The romance is very sweet, and the biggest hurdle they must overcome is class difference. Gideon is British, the son of a baron, and he thinks he has to marry someone refined and elegant, two things that Adelaide is not. Adelaide was raised on a cattle ranch, and she can ride and shoot as well as any man. Gideon thinks his parents won’t approve of her, so he firmly resists his attraction to her. Until danger threatens both Isabella and Adelaide, and then he realizes that life is too short to worry about what other people expect of him.
There’s a lot of action in Head in the Clouds, and Adelaide proves her worth in difficult situations. I liked that she didn’t wait for someone to save her or Isabella, but instead made her own opportunities to save herself. She’s brave, fiercely protective, and intelligent – how can you not like a heroine with traits like those?
There is a lot of religion in the book, but it didn’t seem intrusive or out of place because of the setting. If this had been a contemporary, it probably wouldn’t have worked for me, but I expect that with the harsh surroundings and difficulties involved in ranching in the 1800s, that faith would have a large place in both Gideon and Adelaide’s lives. I am not a particularly religious person, but the prayers and requests for guidance didn’t bother me, but I will mention it in case that’s not your cup of tea.
I haven’t read many inspirationals, but I liked Head in the Clouds so much that I want to rush out and try other authors in the genre. If you read them, do you have any recommendations for me?
Grade: B
Review copy obtained from my local library
From Amazon:
Adelaide Proctor is a young woman with her head in the clouds, longing for a real-life storybook hero to claim as her own. But when a husband-hunting debacle leaves her humiliated, she interviews for a staid governess position on a central Texas sheep ranch and vows to leave her romantic yearnings behind.
When Gideon Westcott left his privileged life in England to make a name for himself in America’s wool industry, he never expected to become a father overnight. And five-year-old Isabella hasn’t uttered a word since she lost her mother. The unconventionality of the new governess concerns Gideon–and intrigues him at the same time. But he can’t afford distractions. He has a ranch to run, a shearing to oversee, and a suspicious fence-cutting to investigate.
When Isabella’s uncle comes to claim the child–and her inheritance–Gideon and Adelaide must work together to protect Isabella from the man’s evil schemes. And soon neither can deny their growing attraction. But after so many heartbreaks, will Adelaide be willing to get her head out of the clouds and put her heart on the line?
The post Review: Head in the Clouds by Karen Witemeyer appeared first on Manga Maniac Cafe.
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Cheryl Rainfield,
on 12/6/2014
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Cheryl Rainfield: Avid Reader, Teen Fiction Writer, and Book-a-holic. Focus on Children & Teen Books
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You are beautiful–inside and out. We are given so many messages by the media about how we should look, messages that are meant to make us insecure about our bodies so we will buy their products. Messages that focus on outer beauty and appearance. And sometimes family or well-meaning friends can add to our insecurities. But you are beautiful just as you are. I see it. I know it.
True beauty for me shines out in people’s eyes, through our souls, through the way we talk and act and interact with people. What makes me want to be around someone and spend time with them is their inner beauty. It’s whether they’re kind and compassionate, whether they are loving and thoughtful. Those are the kinds of things that make me want to spend time with someone and make me glad to see them. And I think inner beauty shows in our bodies–most especially in our eyes and faces. Who we are and how we are matters.
If you can stand back and look at yourself the way a friend or family member who dearly loves you see you, I think you will see that you ARE beautiful. Outside and in. If you struggle with that, try telling yourself you’re beautiful while looking yourself in the mirror. Write yourself a note and tell it to yourself over and over; the messages we tell ourselves matter and go in there. And believe me when I say: You are beautiful, inside and out.
By: Mark Miller,
on 12/6/2014
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Authors in the Park, the long-running showcase for local authors, is coming back to downtown Mount Dora with the 3rd Annual Christmas Spectacular set for December 20th.
This year’s event will feature Steve Boone of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame band The Lovin’ Spoonful. Boone will be on hand to promote his memoir, Hotter Than a Match Head.
Authors in the Park is an author event series which supports local authors and community literacy. The event is sponsored by
MillerWords.com and Arts for the Community, Inc. (a local non-profit).
“It is great to have Steve at this year’s event. Not only is he a rock legend, but also a Florida author,” Mark Miller, founder of Authors in the Park, said.
In addition to Boone and Miller, other local authors will be on hand including: Sharon Coady, Illustrator Victor Donahue, De Miller, Olivia Miller, Theresa Oliver, D.G. Stern, C. Kevin Thompson and Colleen Wait.
“Another great thing about these authors is their commitment to their community,” Miller said. “This year’s line-up features educators, inspirational speakers and more.”
The Christmas Spectacular will take place Saturday, December 20th from 5p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Donnelly Building at Fifth Avenue and Donnelly Street in the center of festive downtown Mount Dora. It is free to attend and the authors will be available for photos and autographs. The city will be showing off its holiday light display and local shops will be open.
By: Mark Miller,
on 10/29/2014
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From the land of Empyrean
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I am participating in a themed blog hop with my publisher Helping Hands Press (myhelpinghandspress.com). The theme this month is, as the title suggests, my writing process. That is a very open-ended topic on which I probably have too much to say. I am thinking where to start, doing the usual – stare out the window until the right word pops into my scattered brain. That’s it. That’s my writing process. I randomly wait until some thought stumbles through the blank slate of my mind and I hurriedly write it before it escapes.
Oh wait. That’s only a fraction of how I write. Sometimes, I actually have solid ideas, well-plotted with themes and even a little style. Maybe that’s my writing process? I compose a sturdy outline. There are plot points along the way, like the map of a family road trip with all the tourist traps circled in red. I know where the story starts and know where it ends. Along the journey, I make sure to visit the World’s Largest Ball of Twine or the live mermaids of Weeki Wachee. I do, of course, allow extra drive time for any serendipitous side trips.
The thing that occurs to me is that we writers all have our own process. We each have things that work best, our own traditions and superstitions even. We all have our own style. That is a good thing because every reader has their own style too. We will never run out of stories as long as we never run out of readers.
Now, if I can only add something of substance to this post. Some of the best advice I ever received on writing was to develop my Point of View. That doesn’t mean readers want to know my opinion on anything (probably more the opposite). What it means is that I had to decide who is telling the story and make that connection with the reader. It does not mean to write in the first person tense. Even in third person, you have to have POV. You have to choose one character to tell the story. Show the world through that character’s eyes and reveal that character’s inner thoughts and desires. Then the reader only knows what the character knows, which can help build tension or create surprises. The reader can rise and fall with a character that way.
I could go on for a while about this, list countless examples of good and bad. I could cite specifics in my own books. I don’t want to bore anybody, so I’ll bring it to a close.
In summary, writing, for me, is a passion. We each live out that passion in our own way. I happen to love every minute of it.
Mark currently resides in Florida with his wife and four children. He has achieved some success as a Kindle Best Seller and having one of his short stories selected as a winner in the Florida Writer’s Association Short Story Collection.
Growing up in Kansas, Mark graduated from Sumner Academy of Arts and Sciences and received his Bachelor’s in Film from the University of Kansas.
Mark has written numerous novels, screenplays, short stories and digital series. He has geared his young adult fantasy series, The Empyrical Tales, for the classroom and explored his spirituality, writing both with his father and daughter. Inspirational stories with positive messages are his goal with everything he writes.
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By: Mark Miller,
on 10/12/2014
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Mark Miller's ONE is a spiritual anthology featuring true stories of faith from best-selling and critically acclaimed authors around the world.
The 2015 edition is going to be a little different. It will be written by YOU! All of the stories in the 2015 book will be by first time authors. 20 stories will be selected from all submissions.If you have a story to tell and have NEVER been published, this is your chance. We want to hear your story.Beginning October 1, 2014 and running through January 31, 2015, submit your story by FB message to MarkMillersOne - www.facebook.com/MarkMillersOneBe sure to "like" the page while you are there and share it with your friends.
Now for some details:
*This contest is open to everyone 18 years and older, or 12 to 17 years with signed consent of a parent or guardian.
*The writer must NEVER have been published, either traditionally or self.
*The story must be an original work and not infringe on anyone else's copyrights.
*The story will be published by Helping Hands Press in the 2015 edition of ONE. As such, Helping Hands Press will retain all print and digital rights of the story for five (5) years from the date of publication. Selected authors will also have the opportunity to contract with Helping Hands Press for future works, but are under no obligation.
*Submissions should be in a Word-compatible document. A minimum of 1,000 words, but no more than 10,000 words. Stories must be inspirational or faith-based, preferably Non-Fiction (sorry, no poetry). Stories containing profanity, sex, or violence will be automatically disqualified.
*Winning selections will be personally edited by Mark Miller. Any and all submissions, in whole or part, may be displayed on the ONE Facebook page for promotional purposes.
*Contestants agree to donate all proceeds from the sale of ONE 2015 to a charity selected by Mark Miller, MillerWords.com or Mark Miller's ONE.
Please feel free to share this event and invite any aspiring author you know. Please post any questions to this event page.
May Contain Spoilers
Review:
I don’t read many Inspirational romances because I don’t like having the religious aspects shoved down my throat. I took a chance on A Cowboy Unmatched because the cover is cute, and because it’s a novella. I figured it couldn’t be too overwhelming considering the length, and there are several other books by the author I am itching to try, but I wanted a less expensive introduction to her writing. After reading this, I am game to give a few others a go.
Neill is traveling the countryside, working odd jobs and saving money to start a ranch with his best friend. He’s arrived at Dry Gulch in the Texas Panhandle, but job prospects are looking bleak. Then he finds a note tucked away in his Bible, giving him directions to a job replacing a roof. When he arrives at Clara’s rundown farmhouse, he’s in store for a surprise. Clara greets him with a loaded shotgun, demanding to know why he’s on her property. After explaining about the note and that someone hired him to replace her roof, she reluctantly decides to trust him. The young widow doesn’t have much choice. Her deadbeat husband left her with a derelict shack and a baby on the way. With no money and in no condition to complete the repairs herself, she allows the good Samaritan in town foot the bill for the work.
As Neill works around the homestead, he sees what a ruin the house and property is. He can tell that Clara is doing her best to take care of things, because her animals are well-tended, but everything else is falling apart. While she doesn’t have money to hire him, she can give him food and place to sleep, so he stays on, fixing up what he can. He starts to fall for her during their evening meals together, and learns that her father-in-law wants her baby and will stop at nothing to take it once it’s born. Her husband only married her to vex his father. A gambler, he died shortly after their wedding, leaving Clara with no means to take care of herself or their child. What. A. Loser!
The father-in-law, Mack Danvers, is a wealthy rancher used to getting his way. He’s irked that Clara is defying him by not agreeing to give up his grandson (he refuses to believe the baby will be anything but a boy), and he’s taken to threatening her to intimidate her into giving up her baby. He’s a great villain, because you feel just a tiny slice of sympathy for him. His son and heir died, leaving him no one to carry on the family name or to take over the family ranch. What you don’t feel sorry for are his underhanded tactics to get what his wants. No wonder his son was such a spoiled, selfish turd.
I couldn’t put my Kindle down when I was reading A Cowboy Unmatched. Neill is such an honorable man that I couldn’t help but like him. He’s hard working, caring, and kind; how could Clara not fall for this guy? He risks his life to help her and her baby, and you are immediately cheering for this guy. He’s out to prove himself to his older brothers, but he puts his own dreams for the future aside, and instead makes new plans for himself and Clara, after meeting her. Yeah! I really liked Neill.
If you are looking for a cute, sweet read, look no further than A Cowboy Unmatched. The setting feels authentic, the characters are likeable, and the story moves along at a good clip. I would like to read more novellas from this collection (A Match Made in Texas) because I enjoyed this one so much.
Grade: B
Review copy purchased from Amazon
From Amazon:
Neill isn’t sure who hired him to repair Clara’s roof–he only knows Clara desperately needs his help. Can he convince this stubborn widow to let down her guard and take another chance on love?
The post Novella Review: A Cowboy Unmatched by Karen Witemeyer appeared first on Manga Maniac Cafe.
Please give a warm welcome to Charlotte Hubbard this morning!
[Manga Maniac Cafe] Describe yourself in five words or less.
[Charlotte Hubbard] Happy, busy, organized, outspoken . . . colorful. Creative.
(See? I have to have the last word, and that makes six!)
[Manga Maniac Cafe] Can you tell us a little about Breath of Spring?
[Charlotte Hubbard] Breath of Spring is the 4th book in my Seasons of the Heart Amish series, although you can read it as a stand-alone before you read the previous books. Annie Mae Knepp faces a lot of challenges most girls her age have no clue about because her father, the former bishop of Willow Ridge, has been excommunicated. He’s started a new Plain colony called Higher Ground under dubious circumstances—and because he has his four pre-school age kids with him, Annie Mae is worried about who’s taking care of them while he’s building his new town. She’s also worried that he’s going to get back at her for refusing to go to Higher Ground with him (and she is not figuring that her dad has hired her former wild-child boyfriend to do his dirty work).
When Annie Mae sees her little sibs are being mistreated by her dad’s new live-in, she snatches them back to Willow Ridge—and suddenly realizes that she’s now responsible for raising them. What man in his right mind will ever want to marry her now? Never in a million years does she figure quiet Adam Wagler will find her attractive—and indeed, Adam has his own secret conflicts to settle before he can take on the responsibilities of a wife and a family. It’s truly a book about how love conquers all, and how the Amish take care of each other in good times and bad.
[Manga Maniac Cafe] Can you share your favorite scene?
[Charlotte Hubbard] I think I like Annie Mae’s 18th birthday party scene the best, because literally everyone in Willow Ridge comes to celebrate with her, and she meets the young Plain cancer survivor who’s gotten a wig made from the long braid Annie Mae’s spiteful father cut off earlier in the story. And when she closes her eyes to make her wish before blowing out her candles, she wishes BIG!
Although, the scene when Annie Mae climbs onto the motorcycle behind Adam to escape her father is pretty neat, too.
[Manga Maniac Cafe] What gave you the most trouble with the story?
[Charlotte Hubbard] Early on, I realized my hero, Adam Wagler, was too bland and quiet and uninteresting. I knew he needed a secret, a backstory that gave him more depth and conflict—and conflict is something I try to avoid in real life, so I really have to work to put it into a story!
I was at a retreat with a few writer friends, brainstorming, and when one of them said, “He’s got a motorcycle!” I knew I’d found an edgy angle to Adam. Because he’s already a member of the Old Order Amish church, motor vehicles are strictly forbidden, yet beneath a blue tarp in the barn, we discover a vintage Indian Chief motorcycle—and we learn how this reckless purchase in Adam’s teen years brought great heartache to his family that still plagues him. Makes him feel he can’t take responsibility for a wife and a family now. The cycle’s worth a chunk of change—which also plays well into the story—and it becomes an escape vehicle during an intense confrontation between Annie Mae and her vindictive father. And yes, the cops and the bishop catch him driving it . . . without a license.
[Manga Maniac Cafe] What’s one thing you won’t leave home without?
[Charlotte Hubbard] If at all possible, when I’m going somewhere in the car, I take along my border collie, Ramona. She loves to ride, she waits patiently while I shop and tend errands, and she’s a hoot at the drive-up window at the bank, where the tellers send her treats in the metal drawer-thingie.
Otherwise, I don’t leave home without my cheapy glasses because I can’t read squat without them now.
[Manga Maniac Cafe] Name three things on your desk right now.
[Charlotte Hubbard] Oh my—the desk is a total mess as I finish my final revisions on the next book for this series! Near the top of the heap is my Roget’s Super Thesaurus, a little gray tweed teddy bear that was a gift from a dear friend, and of course the mighty Mac I do all my writing on. When I complete my revising on this next book, I’ll clear off all the mess so I can begin the next book for a different series. It’ll be a mess again in oh, about an hour!
[Manga Maniac Cafe] If you could trade places with anyone for just one day, who would you be?
[Charlotte Hubbard] Tinker Bell! What’s not to love about being cute and curvy in a strapless, backless, very short dress (without wardrobe malfunctions!) and flitting/flying around waving a magic wand and granting peoples’ wishes? And she never ages, despite the fact that she first appeared in 1904—which makes her way older than I am—although the Disney version of Peter Pan appeared the same year I did.
(Now I can admit that this question gave me some trouble until I spotted a Tink spiral-bound notebook on my messy desk. Truth be told, I have no idea what real, live person I would trade places with. I kinda like my life just the way it is!)
[Manga Maniac Cafe] You have been granted the use of one superpower for one week. Which power would you choose, and what would you do with it?
[Charlotte Hubbard] I would love to be able to time travel. I used to write historical romances, so venturing back in time a century or two would be great fun! I would visit people in their homes to see how they really lived—rich and poor alike—because everyday lives fascinate me, as do all different styles of architecture. I would ride in a stagecoach and be a trick-shot artist in a Wild West show and travel aboard ocean liners (things heroines of my earlier books have done) and in general live a much more exciting life than I do as a mere writer. At the end of each day I’d be tired, but it wouldn’t be from spending too many hours in my office chair!
[Manga Maniac Cafe] What are some books that you enjoyed recently?
[Charlotte Hubbard] Because I write Amish books full-time, I prefer not to read many of them. Don’t want to inadvertently pick up on other authors’ styles or plots. Right now I’m really enjoying the Chet and Bernie mystery series—Chet is a dog that flunked out of police K-9 school so he now belongs to P.I. Bernie, and Chet narrates the stories! You smell and taste and laugh at everything Chet experiences as they work on cases, and Chet knows most of the important clues way before Bernie, but of course he can only bark and wag his tail so Bernie has to figure out their cases the hard way. Really funny stories. Really original premise for a mystery series, too.
[Manga Maniac Cafe] How can readers connect with you?
[Charlotte Hubbard] On my website, www.charlottehubbard.com, there’s a contact link (and you can also sign up for my e-newsletter, which comes out with each new book.) Or you can email me at [email protected]. I write another Amish series as Naomi King, so that’s my biz email. You can also Friend me as Charlotte Hubbard on Facebook, or Like my Naomi C. King author page.
Thanks so much for the time you’ve spent reading my interview! I hope you’ll enjoy BREATH OF SPRING.
[Manga Maniac Cafe] Thank you for visiting this morning!
Title: Breath of Spring
Author: Charlotte Hubbard
Publisher: Kensington
Pages: 352
Genre: Amish Romance/Inspirational
As a bright season brings a fresh start to Willow Ridge, Annie Mae Knepp feels she can never make peace with the past. Her disgraced ex-bishop father is furious that she’s has taken her five siblings to live with her. She’s never been truly at home in her faith…or believing in herself. And Annie Mae fears no man will want to take on the responsibilities she’s gladly shouldered. True, her quiet neighbor Adam Wagler has been steadfast and unshakable, helping her through her trials, but he surely couldn’t think of someone so lost as more than a friend. Believing she is unworthy because of her doubts, Annie Mae will find, in a moment of surprising revelation, that God can work impossible miracles—and that love makes all things new.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
I’ve called Missouri home for most of my life, and most folks don’t realize that several Old Older Amish and Mennonite communities make their home here, as well. The rolling pastureland, woods, and small towns along county highways make a wonderful setting for Plain populations—and for stories about them, too! While Jamesport, Missouri is the largest Old Order Amish settlement west of the Mississippi River, other communities have also found the affordable farm land ideal for raising crops, livestock, and running the small family-owned businesses that support their families.
Like my heroine, Miriam Lantz, of my Seasons of the Heart series, I love to feed people—to share my hearth and home. I bake bread and goodies and I love to try new recipes. I put up jars and jars of green beans, tomatoes, beets and other veggies every summer. All my adult life, I’ve been a deacon, a dedicated church musician and choir member, and we hosted a potluck group in our home for more than twenty years.
Like Abby Lambright, heroine of my Home at Cedar Creek series, I consider it a personal mission to be a listener and a peacemaker—to heal broken hearts and wounded souls. Faith and family, farming and frugality matter to me: like Abby, I sew and enjoy fabric arts—I made my wedding dress and the one Mom wore, too, when I married into an Iowa farm family more than thirty-five years ago! When I’m not writing, I crochet and sew, and I love to travel.
I recently moved to Minnesota when my husband got a wonderful new job, so now he and I and our border collie, Ramona, are exploring our new state and making new friends.
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TOUR SCHEDULE
May 5
Book reviewed at Shhh…Not While I’m Reading
Book reviewed at Literary R&R
May 6
Book reviewed at In Our Spare Time
Book featured at I Heart Reading
May 7
Book featured at Talking Books Blog
May 8
Book reviewed at Harlie’s Books
Book featured at 3 Partners in Shopping
May 9
Interviewed at Manga Maniac Cafe
Book featured at A Book Addict’s Delight
May 12
Book featured at Reading Rendezvous Reviewz
May 13
Interviewed at Becky on Books…and Quilts
May 14
Book reviewed at Blooming with Books
May 16
Book featured at Paulette’s Papers
May 26
Book reviewed at Splashes of Joy
May 28
Guest blogging at My Book Addiction and More
May 29
Book reviewed at Griperang’s Bookmark
June 2
Book reviewed at Lighthouse-Academy
June 4
Book reviewed at My Devotional Thoughts
June 5
Book reviewed at Bookishly Devoted
June 9
Book reviewed at Confessions of a Reader
June 10
Book reviewed at Maureen’s Musings
June 12
Book featured at Icefairy’s Treasure Chest
June 17
Book featured at Margay Leah Justice
June 19
Book reviewed at Reviews by Molly
Guest blogging at Authors and Readers Book Corner
June 20
Book reviewed and Guest blogging at Melina’s Book Blog
June 23
Book featured at Bookalicious Travel Addict
June 24
Book reviewed and Guest blogging at The Book Connection
June 26
Book reviewed at Reviews from the Heart
Book reviewed at A Room Without Books is Empty
Book reviewed at Melina’s Book Blog
June 27
Book reviewed at Eccentric Eclectic Woman
The post Interview with Charlotte Hubbard, Author of Breath of Spring appeared first on Manga Maniac Cafe.
The Ilanot Review welcomes submissions of creative nonfiction, fiction, poetry, hybrid writing, graphics and translations for our winter 2014 issue.
Theme: "Sacred Words"
Submission deadline: November 30 2013
What is "sacred"? Is the sacred solely the territory of religion or can it also be found in everyday life? How do we elevate the mundane to the sacred?
How do we appropriate sacred objects, rituals, spaces and times and make them our own? Is family sacred? A date on the calendar? The kitchen
table? Let your minds roam and share some of your sacred images and words with us.
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“One foot in this world and one in the next”: that’s how J.F. Powers described the Midwestern priests he wrote about in his fiction. Having one foot in another world can be awkward, and Powers’ characters are known not for their graceful mysticism, but for the humiliating and mordantly entertaining stumbles they make while trying to live their faith. We’re looking for carefully crafted short stories with vivid characters who encounter grace in everyday settings—we want to see who, in the age we live in, might have one foot in this world and one in the next.
The judges will be Eve Tushnet, Andrew McNabb, and Matthew Lickona, and the winner will receive $500. There is no entrance fee.
The winning story will be announced in February, 2014 and published in Dappled Things, along with nine honorable mentions. Please submit your short story (no more than one, no previously published work) to our website by November 29.
Submit here.
Can you actually fall down in space?
Luke Umble and his Amish family are going to find out the hard way. Things continue to go from bad to worse with each new revelation. The bad news is that the Adam Corp deep space ship, the Corinthian, has not even made it out of our solar system yet.
Could something worse be waiting for them?
Promise of Tomorrow is an ongoing short story series that asks the question, "How far would you go to save your faith?"
Volume 5
Downfall
Luke Umble believed he was a man of God. One fateful decision could test all of his beliefs. With the support of his wife Annie, they uproot their family in an attempt to save the ones they love. Luke is challenged on all sides by his cantankerous father, his oldest son’s rebellion and even his youngest daughter’s Muscular Dystrophy.
In Volume 5: Downfall, Luke Umble has to face the truth. First he faces it in the rude, condescending behavior of the Englische Captain. Then Luke learns more harsh truth from the young, but sincere, Lieutenant that has also expressed an interest in his daughter. The promise once offered by their ship, the Corinthian, seems to be falling from their grasp. Things are made worse when eight-year-old Henry decides to skip school and explore the ship. Everything collides and causes Luke to doubt his faith.
The one question he asks himself is “How far would you go to keep your faith?”
The only answer Luke can find lies in God’s Promise of Tomorrow.
Thanks for taking the time to read my post. Comments are always appreciated.
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By: Mark Miller,
on 9/6/2013
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The ONE series is about raising awareness and raising funds for charity. Along the way, we get a little emotional, but sometimes have some fun. The latest story has a little of both.
2013 Story Eight
The Trucker Angel
by Janet Beasley
This is where knowing the author in person becomes such a treat. Everything that Janet wrote in this story is as honest and sincere as she is in real life. Normally, the author's stories are flights of fancy and epic adventures. I jokingly say this is mature writing for her.
All kidding aside, this story is packed with emotion and faith. She speaks briefly about her mother's condition, but one can read its effect throughout the entire piece. This story is sentimental without being sobby and mystifying without being cheesy.
The big question for me is "Did she see what she says she saw?" The answer may simply be that we all see what we need to see at certain moments in our life. An element of confidence and security comes from our faith. We feel good knowing that a higher power is watching out for us. Ultimately, I feel that is the author's message and one worth sharing.
About the book: 100% of the author’s proceeds will be donated to Bridge to Ability Specialized Learning Center, a not-for-profit organization serving the educational and therapeutic needs of fragile children with severe physical and cognitive disabilities.
www.BridgeToAbility.org. The authors, creator and publisher are in no other way affiliated with this organization.
Mark Miller’s One 2013 is a spiritual anthology examining True-Life experiences of Authors and their Faith. As the series evolves expect to discover what it means to have faith, no matter what that faith is and no matter where they live. Remember that we are all part of this One World.
In Story Eight, Janet Beasley tells of a supernatural experience that reaffirmed her faith. Before she was a best-selling author, she was a daughter. One of her simple pleasures has always been lunch with her mother. During one of these outings, Janet and her mother witnessed the unexplainable and believe it saved their lives.
About the author: Janet Beasley, best selling author of The Hidden Earth Series (a six novel series), is successfully carving her niche` in the inspirational epic fantasy genre for middle grades and YAs. Even the young at heart are enjoying the escape her writing style presents.
Her debut novel, Maycly the Trilogy, raised to the top 3 on the Amazon Religious Fantasy charts, and landed ahead of the Hunger Games on yet another. By appearing at local and out-of-state events, book signings, and speaking engagements, audiences are now perking up when they hear this author’s name…and it’s not just for her fantasy novels. Janet works with her sister and full time illustrator, Dar Bagby, to create more than just stories. Volume 1 Maycly the Trilogy expands by leaps and bounds with two companion books (a full color illustration book and a cook book), as well as an online memorabilia shop, and amazingly enough – gourmet dog treats.
Janet is multi-talented when it comes to her creativity. She excels in multi-media presentations, event planning, has developed a training center and its curriculum for AV technicians, and produced – directed – and served as a theater technician. She has written fiction - non-fiction – stage plays - and an autobiography. She has crafted award winning poetry, been published in anthologies, and trade specific magazines.
Janet enjoys the outdoors by kayaking and hiking with her husband, and photographing nature. She also loves animals (dogs are her favorite), spending time with her family, and baking cupcakes.
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Story Seven of the 2013 ONE series by Alexandria Barker
Through the Eyes of a Child
When a story or another person affirms ideas that you thought were only in your head, then that is a good story. More than once while reading this, I had to pause and reflect. Ms. Barker puts into words some things that made sense to me, things that I saw at work in my own life. They may seem like simple truths, but that does not make the concepts any less true. She shares a few anecdotes about her grandson and how he saw the world through the "eyes of a child". I recommend this and then challenge you to look at your world with new, young eyes.
100% of the author’s proceeds will be donated to Bridge to Ability Specialized Learning Center, a not-for-profit organization serving the educational and therapeutic needs of fragile children with severe physical and cognitive disabilities. www.BridgeToAbility.org. The authors, creator and publisher are in no other way affiliated with this organization.Mark Miller’s One 2013 is a spiritual anthology examining True-Life experiences of Authors and their Faith. As the series evolves expect to discover what it means to have faith, no matter what that faith is and no matter where they live. Remember that we are all part of this One World.In Story Seven, Alexandria Barker shares her understanding of the Law of Attraction as it applies to our spiritual being. She offers some simple explanations that she learned firsthand through her grandson. We are born into this world without an instruction manual. Alexandria has a few techniques that can help shape our energy while we’re here.
Available now on Kindle
Also look for it on Nook and Kobo
You can find all of the Authors of ONE on Facebook
Today's guest brings us a little excerpt from his family-friendly book Gazpacho.
Prologue
The Arrival
Oh what a glorious light it was, so brilliant, bold and white. The light was so magnificent and powerful that I struggled in vain with my yet unopened eyes to gaze directly upon it. At first, with only but a glance and then with only a glimpse, I attempted to shield my newborn sight with the aid of the tiny hands and fingers that appeared there before me all aglow and bathed by the radiant light.
I quickly learned that each precious digit was mine to command. And, once I did, every one of them was sent out on the same mission of exploration, toward the light, filled with the hope and desire to touch it. Floating mere inches above me from where I lay, the light hovered ablaze, in all of its divine splendor, just out of reach. I soon came to understand that the light was never meant for me to touch in that way, but it was there for me to feel in a different way, instead. From somewhere deep inside myself I felt the incredible presence that was within it and it reached out to me with a message of love. As my eyes adjusted and grew more accustomed to the light, I marveled to behold a multitude of colorful rays on display. They danced, flickered and sparkled out from its center in every direction possible. All to a dazzling effect that filled me with joy.
Not a sound did it make, but even in the first few moments of my life, I knew that, somehow, the light had come to greet me and to help see me into the world. And I loved the light, almost as much as I felt the presence within it love me. Soon after I had made the connection with it, however, the light pulled away, faded and left. I didn’t like to see it go, but I was so very glad for the time that it had come to be with me. Even more than that, I was ever so grateful for the experience it left me with, to have known, felt, and witnessed something that was that good.
As those moments faded away, all of my physical senses took on a greater awareness. For the first time I heard soothing and comforting voices around me. At first the voices were faint, but before long, I could hear the sound coming from somewhere near me. Although I couldn’t understand exactly what they were talking about, I could feel that they were saying all kinds of nice and wonderful things just for me to hear. Love is also what I felt from them. And even though it was somehow different from the love that I felt from the light, the feelings were unmistakable and I loved them very much too!
So… this is what it’s like to be alive. Well hey, this certainly feels great! I really like it here!
About the Book: Gazpacho , a "Rarus Nimus Foetidus Loquaciatis Rauca Mollis" is a newly discovered species of worm that has the ability to communicate with most every living creature. But what his species is most known for, throughout the bug and animal world, is their highly toxic glands that produce a considerable amount of stink whenever they are stressed or in danger. This toxic "handicap" or stinky "gift", depending on how it comes to be used, sets the stage for Gazpacho's early years just as it serves to enrich his life experiences and fuel his grand adventures. From his birth in the northern forest glen to his plan of becoming the next great singing star and idol sensation, Gazpacho learns of love as he overcomes the many obstacles and prejudices against him to finally summon up the courage to leave home and live out his dream! This is the first book in a series of four that tell Gazpacho's amazing life story!
About the Author: Robert Michaels (Robert A. Nicpon) was born in Chicago, Illinois and he lived there until the age of 7. It was during Robert’s high school years that he discovered his passion for art, and it was in his last year of high school that he decided that he wanted to produce art for a living. In 2006 Robert learned that what really matters the most when producing a work of art is telling “The Story” and telling it well. When this was discerned, Robert received the inspiration to write the story of Gazpacho. With the help of his beloved coauthor Aurora Rose, Gazpacho’s story has grown into a four book series that chronicles Gazpacho’s amazing life.
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Here is a treat from one of my dear friends and a talented author. My review of the first book in her inspirational epic fantasy:
I am enthralled by this wonderful new world. Reminiscent of the character journeys of both Star Wars and Wizard of Oz, I am looking forward to the complete epic of Hidden Earth.
Maycly Part 1 is a fabulous beginning, arming the reader with the history of Maycly and introducing the reader to Iona. Iona has suffered some great tragedies, yet still manages to maintain a childlike innocence. She struggles with her faith and only truly begins her adventure when she opens her heart up to the Grand Wizard, SUL (a metaphorical reference to God).
While this book is only the beginning of Iona's story, it introduces us to an imaginative ensemble of characters and creatures. The stage is set for the classic battle of Good vs Evil.
Having had the opportunity to meet the author, it is easy to see her spirit captured in these pages. The author's personal story is a great inspiration and her passion fuels the world of Maycly!
The best part is that you can get it for ONLY 99 Cents on Kindle:
About the book: Part 1 of the trilogy is titled "Two Altered Worlds." Discover the dreams, the magic, the quest. Kids of all ages will love this inspirational epic fantasy adventure, suitable for the entire family. The three parts of Maycly found in the paperback are sold separately as Ebooks. Part 1 is an amazing start to an epic journey. Get attached almost immediately as the protagonist, Iona, is thrown into circumstances beyond her control. Just as you're getting acquainted with her, you'll find yourself being taken back in time on Maycly, where the stage is being set for their queen's hopeful arrival. Part 1 offers a great cliff hanger, leading you right into Part 2.
About the author: Janet was born and raised in Ohio. She and her husband, Don, moved to Florida in the 1980′s to not only escape the cold winters, but to also pursue their careers as live event and production specialists. It was through their parent company, Multi-Tech Productions, Inc, that Janet's creativity was given free reign to soar. She was published in trade specific magazines, published non-fiction books, spoke at international conferences nationwide, and developed training classes pertaining to technical theater applications. When chronic illness stopped her in her tracks, it didn't stop her as a creative genius. Once she was back on her feet she took over the family gourmet dog treat business and expanded it by adding a full scale bakery to the already established "BARK"-ery. Again she collapsed, and again she didn't let it keep her down. Her creativity crested new horizons, and after putting herself through schooling at age 49 she became an epic fantasy author. She birthed JLB Creatives, a subsidiary of Multi-Tech Productions, Inc., which handles the publishing and authorship side of the business. Volume 1 - Maycly in her HIDDEN EARTH series was an eight year project brought to fruition by her determination, dedication, and zest for life! Janet and Don still reside in Florida. Janet is a dog lover who enjoys tandem kayaking, photographing nature, and baking cupcakes.
By: Mark Miller,
on 2/9/2013
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The idea of One started small and grew into a year's worth of amazing, thought-provoking, inspirational stories. The resulting anthology was combined into a beautiful paperback book (not unlike Chicken Soup for the Soul, and definitely nice enough for any Doctor's office).
With that success, my publisher was nice enough to ask me to do it again. So I set out to gather another twelve authors, including myself, and start a journey into 2013.
One of the things I like best about this series is that it benefits other people instead of the author. Last year, we made a nice donation to Give Kids the World (
www.gktw.org) from author proceeds. This year, I found a group much closer to home. Bridge to Ability Specialized Learning Center (
www.bridgetoability.org) is only about a twenty minute drive from my home. The organization helps children in my community. They are small and can use our help. So please remember, every time you download this story, 100% of my author proceeds are going to a very good cause.
2013 is also going to be a bit of a family affair. My wife, Traci Miller, will be contributing a story and my father, De Miller will return, as well. Other returning authors include: Crystal Linn, Sude Khanian and Sarah Price. We will also see new stories from some other sensational authors: Murray Pura, Alexandria Barker, Janet Beasley, R Jeffries and Missy Kennedy Adams.
This will be a great, eye-opening year!
100% of the author’s proceeds will be donated to Bridge to Ability Specialized Learning Center, a not-for-profit organization serving the educational and therapeutic needs of fragile children with severe physical and cognitive disabilities. www.BridgeToAbility.org. The authors, creator and publisher are in no other way affiliated with this organization. Mark Miller’s One 2013 is a spiritual anthology examining True-Life experiences of Authors and their Faith. As the series evolves expect to discover what it means to have faith, no matter what that faith is and no matter where they live. Remember that we are all part of this One World.
In Story One, Mark Miller welcomes you back to the series. He has a little something to say about forgiveness and finding his place in the world. Sometimes, we are exactly where we are supposed to be and not even realize it.
You are invited to visit the Authors of One, ask questions and start discussions on our official Facebook page:
You can get the 2012 paperback here:
2013 Story One: A Marvelous Net is available on Kindle for ONLY 99 Cents:
By: Mark Miller,
on 12/11/2012
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Right in time for Christmas, I am happy to present:
Stories of Queen's Day
2012
Sylvan's Wish
In between novels in my
Empyrical Tales series, I like to visit my characters and celebrate with them. It is my pleasure to share these stories with you.
Queen’s Day is the most special holiday in all of Empyrean. Once a year, Father Odin returns to celebrate the victory of the first queens over the Forgotten Evil.
Author Mark Miller brings you holiday themed stories from the land of Empyrean. You can see more of these characters in The Empyrical Tales novels. Book I: The Fourth Queen, Book II: The Lost Queen and Book III: The Secret Queen are available now. Book IV: The First Queen is coming soon from Helping Hands Press. Miller also has a great selection of family friendly and young reader stories currently available from Trestle Press.
For 2012, Sylvan’s Wish takes inspiration from the Christmas classic, The Nutcracker and the Mouse King by E.T.A. Hoffmann. Olena and her small, wooden friend Sylvan go to bed on the eve of Queen’s Day and wake up in a magical world. Before Sylvan’s wish can be granted, they must face the frightening rat-like Tylomites. The message of this take on the Nutcracker Prince shares the joy of the holiday season.
It is also available on Nook, iTunes and Kobo.
So, from all of us in Empyrean,
Happy Queen's Day!
By: Mark Miller,
on 11/10/2012
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Recently, I started a new series with my friend, Giovanni. It was a relatively new experience diving into the world of Amish fiction. I did not quite know what to expect, but we ended up with something totally unique and outrageous.
The Defective Amish Detective
Volume 1
The Whoopie Pie Affair
The story is something of a cozy mystery, but also a self-deprecating comedy. We hold the Amish in high regard and treat their portrayal with kindness. But when it comes to the Defective Detective, it's no holds barred. The main character has poor eyesight, poor hearing and dresses like he raided Don Ho's wardrobe in 1983.
We are presently at work on Volume 2 - The Intercourse Boondoggle. Now before you ask if we are crossing any taboos, please know that Intercourse is the name of a town in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania; the heart of Amish country.
To celebrate the upcoming release, we are doing two things. First, there will be a live interview on the G-Zone BlogTalkRadio show. Special guest host Murray Pura (best-selling author of historical & Amish fiction) has been preparing some hard-hitting questions. To hear the show live on Saturday, Nov 17th at Noon Eastern (or to listen to the archive afterward), save this link:
The second big event is the giveaway that is happening for the next 20 days, ending on December 1st. You can use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter for your chance to win one or both of the first two volumes of The Defective Amish Detective.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
By: Mark Miller,
on 9/26/2012
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Today marks the final stepping stone in a journey started over one year ago. It is available now for ONLY 99 Cents on Kindle - http://goo.gl/GE6k1. Also on Nook, iTunes and Kobo. Keep reading to find out if it really is the end of One.
Mark Miller's One
Story Twelve
Choices
Along the way, some amazing authors contributed some very personal, exceptional stories. With Choices, I try to touch on all of it. Part review, part exploration, this story gave me a chance to thank the ten other authors who helped make One something special.
100% of the author’s proceeds will be donated to Give Kids the World, a charitable organization where children with life-threatening illnesses and their families are treated to weeklong, cost-free fantasy vacations. www.GKTW.org. The authors, creator and publisher are in no other way affiliated with this organization. Mark Miller’s One is a spiritual anthology examining True-Life experiences of Authors and their Faith. As the series evolves expect to discover what it means to have faith, no matter what that faith is and no matter where they live. Remember that we are all part of this One World.
In Story Twelve, Mark Miller revisits the entire series. Choices examines some personal life-changing events. Then the author poses questions analyzing the previous eleven stories. When it comes to faith, Miller asks What If?
Don't worry though, One is not done. The series will be back in January. Several authors have already asked to come back. Plus, there will be some new additions to our family.
For now, please like us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/MarkMillersOne) and please get your copy of
Story Twelve: Choices today!
Inspirational author Karen Malena tells us about A Figure Larger Than Life.
One faded black and white photo and my life would change.......
Sifting through old photographs one day with my mom, I felt drawn to one of a young man in dirty overalls, haunting eyes, and beautiful hands. When she told me this was her grandfather, Pietro, and she never knew him, I hungered to know more about him.
He came to this country in the early 1900's looking for work and a new way of life for his wife and four children. My great-grandfather, Pietro paved the way for us, and brought a legacy to me that I will never forget.
A quiet, gentle man, he was a carpenter by trade. He was born in Patrica, Italy in the late 1800's. He came to this country when he was twenty years old, seeking a good life for his family.
I think back to being twenty years old. Thoughts of fun, dating, parties, selfish ambitions. Yet this simple man, at the same age already had so many responsibilities. Poverty beckoned at the door in his hometown. Who knows how tough it had been trying to feed a wife and four children?
Many already had made the decision to strike out to America for a new life and new opportunities. It couldn't have been easy leaving behind loved ones, not knowing if you would ever see them again, yet hopeful that you would.
What was the boat journey like? An unending, long, nauseating trip with at least nine hundred others. Was he fearful, hopeful?
And when he first got to Ellis Island, what thoughts were on his mind? Did he kiss the ground, so grateful to see land again? Was there anyone waiting for him, a brother perhaps?
Again, I think of myself. I was lucky to be able to drive to another town when I was the same age. For I was a fearful, scared rabbit back in the day. Afraid to venture outside of the confines of my comfortable, small world.
Yet this man, who couldn't read, write, or speak the strange language of English, risked it all for a chance, a dream, a hope.
I sit here now, thinking back on my own life. I have come so far in such a short time. Once afraid of my own shadow, I now venture into strange, new places. Once so timid I could barely speak to others, I am meeting new, exciting people and sharing stories of my own with them.
Could it be perhaps this patriarch, my great-grandfather, Pietro, this figure larger than life, has inspired me to be courageous, to seek so much more in this beautiful world? I believe so. And I am grateful to him for paving the way for my family and I as we travel this wonderful journey together.
Thank you, Pietro. Grazie.
I happen to have the privilege to be part of a great group of authors published by Trestle Press and Helping Hands Press. Starting today, you will be hearing from them on my blog. They have a lot to say about a lot of different things.
First up is best-selling Amish author Karen Anna Vogel. She asks herself a few questions.
What is your connection to the Amish?
I live ½ hour away from Smicksburg, PA, a large Old Order Amish settlement. I shop at their stores and we hired Amish men to help remodel our century old farmhouse. It’s been fifteen years of remodeling, (still not done…) so we got to know many men and their families. On their breaks, they love to talk and swap stories, and I always have 1001 questions, ranging from “Do you grow celery for weddings?”(They had no idea what I was talking about) to “Do you read the Bible?” (Yes, they do, KJV) I became good friends with Lydia, (Katie Byler in Knit Together) after buying so many plants from her greenhouses, and “Granny” while taking lots of people to her quilt shop. (Granny wishes to be completely anonymous) She is Granny Weaver in Amish Knitting Circle, Amish Friends Knitting Circle, Amish Doll and Knit Together.
When did your fascination with Amish culture start?
In my mid-20’s my husband and I moved to Upstate New York. There are many Amish in rural New York, and we became friends with a handicapped man, Harry Hershberger, and his wife, Katie. (Eli and Lottie Hershberger in Knit Together) His buggy was hit as a young man, after the birth of their daughter and the Amish build a variety store on the side of his house. My four kids loved to go in and get coloring books, and we all got to know Harry from our regular visits. He had some use of his hands and made quilts, and I took them to festivals. One day he told me I was a trusted English friend, and invited me into their food co-op. When I moved back home to Pennsylvania fourteen years later, the Amish in Smicksburg knew Harry & Katie. Since I was a trusted friend to them, they trusted me. Once you’re a trusted friend, it’s like having an all access pass into their lives it seems. They readily open up, and if you’re one of them. Once I was chatting with a woman and her husband came home from work, and he never met me before. He looked at her sternly, and she said, “Friends with Harry Hershberger in NY” and he smiled at me and nodded in approval.
Tell us about your novels and continuing short stories.
My novels out now are stand-alone stories, but are all called Amish Knitting Novels. Knit Together and The Amish Doll are set in different locations, but they both focus on healing through knitting and faith in Christ. Continuing shorts have made quite a comeback. Anne of Green Gables, Pickwick Papers, and Jan Karon’s At Home in Mitford series were all weekly serials in newspapers. My shorts come out every 3 weeks. Amish Knitting Circle started with Granny inviting five women from her church district to a knitting circle to knit shawls for tornado victims in Joplin, MO. She invites women she has inkling are hiding problems. Granny spins yarn and feels women are stronger spun together, and by the end of 10 episodes, you see how much they needed each other. Amish Friends Knitting Circle is about Granny and her girls having a knitting circle with friends from the Smicksburg Baptist Church. It’s been lots of fun to write, since I take lines right out of my own conversations with the Amish.
What are your readers saying about your books?
Since I deal with cancer, infertility, spousal abuse and other women’s issues, women tell me they are finding help and comfort, especially through Amish Knitting Circle and Amish Friends Knitting Circle. Some women are starting knitting or craft circles, spreading the message that we’re stronger as women, spun together. Also, Knit Together is semi-autobiographical. I wrote if after losing my mom and two cousins in 13 months. So it deals with grief and it seems to be ministering to people. The complete Serenity Prayer is in the book, and different parts of the prayer are prayed by different characters. It helped bring healing to me, and I hope it does the same for my readers.
Where can readers find your books and connect with you?
My eBooks can be found on Amazon, B&N, Sony, and anywhere eBooks are sold. My paperback, Knit Together and The Amish Doll, are on Amazon for now, but soon to be distributed to brick and mortar stores and other websites. Our family store, Thrifty Christian Shopper, www.thriftychristian.com (Also on EBay and Amazon) will carry the paperbacks as well. You also might find them in your local library. Ask the librarian to get a copy if they don’t have one.
By:
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4 Stars Five of the best-loved Bible stories spring to life with bright vibrant pop-up scenes. That is the perfect description of My Pop-Up Bible Stories. Each page is beautifully illustrated and made of sturdy cardboard. Kids will enjoy turning these pages and watching the scenes come alive before their eyes. Plus, at least one [...]
By: Mark Miller,
on 8/8/2012
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I had the opportunity to get to know Don Lubov a little better. The tenth author in the One series is a man of measured words. I think you will find his answers concise, to the point and entertaining.
Don Lubov, a Zen spiritualist and teacher, is the author of Story Ten: 1971. Get it here for ONLY 99 Cents (and remember, a portion of the author’s proceeds go to charity) – http://goo.gl/ECEzA
MM: Other than my pestering you, what inspired you to write this story?
DL: I felt it was time to share my adventure with others.
MM: And it is quite a story from a vivid time in our country’s history. Of course, I am joking about having to pester you. I will say you are one of the most professional authors with which I have worked. You seem to have a handle on the process. How long have you been writing?
DL: On and off; 41 years.
MM: You definitely have a head start on me. I’m doing some math from your story. If you were thirty in 1971, then…Well, I will say I wish I look as good in thirty or forty years. Obviously, you’ve developed some good habits in your life. Do you have any particular writing habits?
DL: I write first in pen. Pilot pens are my favorite writing instrument.
MM: I like to carry a pen and spiral notebook when I am working on a longer story. I think there is an emotion, or inspiration, in the fluid contact. Speaking of inspiration, your story left me with some insights that I could apply to my own life. Do you have anything more, maybe something not in your story, that you would like to share here?
DL: Love - the more you give it away, the more you have. And, others benefit from it. There’s nothing that can equal the good feeling of serving others.
MM: I could not agree more. Sometimes, it feels like we don’t have enough of it in this world. Working on this series, with these incredible authors, I feel like we’ve developed a connection. We have the opportunity to exponentially expand that love. I know you created your own Six-Step Path, but who are the spiritual influences that led you to these realizations of life and love?
DL: Siddartha, HuangPo, Lao-Tzu, Ralph Waldo Emerson, D.T.Suzuki, Jesus, Henry David Thoreau, Mother Theresa, Meher Baba, Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., The Bible, AlbertEinstein, Ram Dass, et. al.
MM: An impressive list. What about the authors that inspired you to put your views into words?
MM: We are on the same page. You have an appreciation for the masters. I wonder what the Bard would think about our digital stories? We could meditate on that. Back on topic, here is your chance to give us some insight into the author. What can you share that is not in your back-cover bio?
DL: I am deeply and thoroughly in love with my wife…36 years and counting.
MM: I am sure your faith plays a great part in the strength of that relationship. You’ve almost tripled the time of my marriage, but I look forward to the day I can tell people that I’ve been married to my beautiful wife for 36, or 40, or 50 years. That is certainly an ongoing project. What else occupies your time?
DL: Making three videos to post on You Tube and writing for Yahoo Voices.
MM: We can be sure to put links on the One Facebook page (fb.com/MarkMillersOne) when those videos are live. Now, we cannot find Don Lubov on Facebook, but where can we find you?
MM: This is where I like to close the interview with a couple off-beat questions. First, if you could ask your Supreme Being one question, what would you ask?
DL: What more can I do to serve?
MM: That is a theme throughout your writing. But, what flavor of ice cream would you be?
DL: French-Vanilla
MM: (DL does not go on to divulge a reason) Don, thank you for taking the time to answer my questions. I thoroughly enjoyed Mr. Lubov’s Wild Ride, aka 1971. It is available here for ONLY 99 Cents - http://goo.gl/ECEzA
In addition to sparking a discussion of what faith means on our one world, each author has agreed to donate a portion of his or her proceeds to charity. Please have a look at all of the stories below.
By: Mark Miller,
on 7/31/2012
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Enter the psychedelic time tunnel and hang on for an inspirational and amazing story. Zen teacher Don Lubov gives us Story Ten of the One series. It is available now from Trestle Press for ONLY 99 Cents and you can get it here: http://goo.gl/JkFJs
Mark Miller's One
Story Ten
1971
by Don Lubov
100% of the author’s proceeds will be donated to Give Kids the World, a charitable organization where children with life-threatening illnesses and their families are treated to weeklong, cost-free fantasy vacations. www.GKTW.org. The authors, creator and publisher are in no other way affiliated with this organization. Mark Miller’s One is a spiritual anthology examining True-Life experiences of Authors and their Faith. As the series evolves expect to discover what it means to have faith, no matter what that faith is and no matter where they live. Remember that we are all part of this One World.
In Story Ten, Don Lubov shares a wild and thought-provoking journey. A young man in 1971, the author left home on a cross-country journey that took him to some unexpected places. He did not know what he was looking for, but he found himself. This harrowing tale of self-discovery brought the author near to death and to a rebirth.
By: Mark Miller,
on 4/23/2012
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We are talking today with the author of Story Eight: God’s Counterpoints of the One series. Crystal Linn writes both fiction and non-fiction, as well as being an award-winning poet. In her story she shares an emotional journey of her husband’s ordeal with Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma, a rare form of cancer.
MM: To start things off Crystal, what inspired you to share this story?
CL: There were so many people involved and so many miracles preformed that it was incredible.
MM: It was a harrowing journey, but I was touched how all those people came together right when you needed them most. I imagine they support you in your writing as well. How long have you been writing?
CL: I’ve written all of my life and in the year 2000 decided to get serious about it.
MM: I get your meaning. It takes a lot of discipline. You and I both know that writing is not always serious. We have to find outlets for our creativity. What is one of your writing habits that helps you deal with the work?
CL: I color-code my writing projects. Yellow is the color for my fiction projects, blue is for non-fiction, pink is for my children’s projects, purple is for my journal/memoir-type projects and my poetry projects are multi-colored.
MM: That sounds fun. Your writing space must be a rainbow even on dreary days! Speaking of your w
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Thank you, Mark!!! Much appreciated!!! Karen
My pleasure!