Naomi Dawn Musch

The Map Quilt, Book 2 of the Buried Treasure mysteries

The Map Quilt, author Lisa Lickel's sequel to The Gold Standard, is an Spring 2012 new release from Canadian publisher MuseItUp. Join Judy and Hart and their sidekick Poncho Villa as they work to unravel the murder of Hart's boss and how Judy's ancestors were once part of the Underground Railroad.

Death in rural Wisconsin is only the beginning to new chaos in Robertsville. What do a stolen piece of revolutionary agricultural equipment, a long-buried skeleton in the yard, and an old quilt with secrets have in common? Hart and Judy Wingate, who met in The Gold Standard, are back to solve the mystery of The Map Quilt. Hart’s new battery design could forever change the farm implement industry. But after the death of Hart’s most confrontational colleague in a fire that destroys Hart’s workshop, the battery is missing. Throw in a guest speaker invited to Judy’s elementary classroom who insists she owns the land under Hart’s chief competitor’s corporate headquarters, and a police chief who’smaking eyes at Hart’s widowed mother, it’s no wonder Hart is under a ton of pressure to make sure his adventurous pregnant wife stays safe while trying to preserve his company and his reputation.

Soon to be available from

http://www.lisalickel.com

and MuseItUpPublishing

A Secrets Sunday Character Interview

Ardyth is the main secondary character in the series, and she’s quite a lot of fun. Judy’s pretty busy being nine months pregnant, and Hart is too distracted trying to keep his mom out of trouble, so Ardyth stepped in.

Hello Ardyth, welcome to Write Reason's Secret Lives of Characters. In hoping to get to know a little more about you today, can you please tell us your name and something about yourself, about your past; maybe something we won’t learn about you in the book?

Well, sweetheart, aren’t you the dearest thing? You’re so kind to let me tell a bit of my story. I’m Ardyth Genevieve Anderson Belters Edwards, Mrs. Bryce Edwards, that is. I’m a newlywed, even though I’m celebrating my seventy-seventh birthday. You can call me Mrs. Edwards. Still like the sound of that. I was born and raised right here in Robertsville, though I left for bigger adventures when I turned eighteen. I don’t regret marrying Mr. Belters as I have my dear children, Paul, Robert, and Gwen. But if Bryce and I hadn’t been so pig-headed back then,we would have settled down together…well, no use getting my dander up. We have each other now and are all the more wise.

My secret is that I once had a little, bitty crush on Judy’s great uncle Harold, Bryce’s best friend, even though I’d set my cap on Bryce. I guess it’s always abit of a thrill thinking about the other side of the fence. When Harold went on that gold-mining adventure to Alaska I couldn’t help wanting desperately to go along. Then Bryce announced he was going and they made that -- that bet! That was the limit. Good-bye, adios, and farewell.

Did you have any later regrets about that?

It’s no secret that I regret not getting Bryce’s last letter from Alaska, though of course that was not my fault. A letter, Pete’s sake! Just like a man.And of course I regret my little indiscretion with the…uh… well that’s over now too. But, you see, if we hadn’t had to wait so long to get married in the first place, I wouldn’t have been so impatient to spend more time with my honey bun. (Now don’t go telling him I called him that. I’d never hear the end of it.)

*chuckling* All right, Ardyth. I won't tell. So what compelled you to want to tell your story to Ms. Lickel?

Why, that lovely woman, Julietta Barslow, of course. She’s the one who deserves the credit. I like her spunk, standing up for what’s right all these generations. And to think she came from good Christian stock. Her people never were slaves or even indentured servants. Able to care for themselves right from the get-go. Such a story she has to tell. Well, even before Julietta came to give her program to the school kids, there was the Robertsville Ladies Quilting Society, the ones who sewed that quilt in Judy’s trunk. The quilt with a map on it leading folks along theUnderground Railroad. Right through Robertsville. My husband’s family was part of that, too, you know. Good folks seeing no sense in buying and selling souls. A story like that has to be told. Julietta couldn’t have been the one who sabotaged Bryce’s business. I know we’ll get to the bottom of things. That lady is no murderer. She did help with Judy’s baby, and all. Probably saved their lives.

I see. Sounds like a lot of intrigue going on over Ms. Julietta. What was it like working with Ms. Lickel? Do the two of you have anything in common?

We have a love of the Lord in common, to be sure. We’re both go-get-em gals, though Ms. Lickel has a little trouble speaking her mind. Likes to do things sort of behind the scenes, if you catch my drift. Me, why I like the up close and personal confrontation. Say what you mean and mean what you say. So, let’s see, what else? Sure, we come from Midwest farm stock, know what it’s like to make do. And quilt. So it wasn’t hard for Judy and me to get the story out, though that young whipper snapper husband of Judy’s better learn some patience, even if he is my husband’s business partner.

Tell us about someone in the story whom you conflicted with.

That little reporter gal, Olivia Hargrove. Responsible reporting, my foot.

Why do you say that?

She had no call to go and accuse members of my family the way she did. My grandson Bryan, that’s Paul’s oldest, you know, eighteen, why he’s a good boy. Just a little misguided is all. He’ll come out right. I hope. Oh, don’t get me wrong, I like her and all, and admire the way Judy’s trying her best to get along with everyone. It must have been so difficult being an orphan, raised by Louise, dear heart that she was. What was the question? Who’s the orphan? Go on, you say? Yes, let’s.

Without giving anything away, can you give us a hint at something you learned in the course of living out your story?

I am ashamed to say that I put my desires ahead of everything and everyone else. I only wanted Bryce to be able to retire and spend more time at home. Take a vacation. He deserved it. I did, too. If only…well, let bygones be bygones. But it was my fault that I let my family down. If I hadn’t moved away from them to come back to Robertsville, maybe things wouldn’t have gotten so out of control. But, then I wouldn’t haveBryce. And it comes back around to my selfishness again. If I learned anything, it’s to trust in God’s good timing and my husband’s good sense. To be content with what we have, and take joy that I have been blessed with a second chance to be a wife that Bryce can be proud of. It’s my duty to be a better example to the young ones.

I bet many of us can relate to having done that. Was there a point in your life that you felt God had deserted you, or that He was never there in the first place?

Oh, my, yes. Seems He always has to bring you to your knees if you drift too far. Course I never doubted He was there, but sometimes He just seemed—busy, you know? Taking care of much more important stuff than me. Mr. Belters’ passing was not unexpected, really, and I was so busy raising three children I didn’t have time for feelings. Then, when they’d all been gone and I retired I wondered what I’d done my whole life. My best friend Maude died. She was younger than I. That’s what did it, you know. What brought me back home from St. Louis. Home to the church I’d known while I was growing up and friends who respected each other.

What do you hope that readers will take away with them after hearing about your life?

Don’t let stubbornness keep you from grabbing hold of the promises of God. And that’s all I’m going to say.

Very good advice, Ardyth! Do you think you’ll evercollaborate with Ms. Lickel on another book in the future in a sort of sequel? Or how about about anyone else in the story... have they implied that they’d be willing to tell more about their lives?

You don’t see that reporting gal around, do you? Olivia? Shhh… we’re ready to solve poor old Esme’s murder. She was Bryce’s aunt, though no one really knew about it. I have my suspicions, of course, about who would of done it, but Judy’s the sleuth. I’m her chief aide. If only Cat hadn’t been so reckless. Judy, dear, I think I might be a little distracted, what between Cat and my daughter Gwen, I’m a mess. That’s okay if you want to work with her some more. She’s the one who found the code and all, anyhow.

Well, Ardyth, you've given us some questions and suggestions to ponder. Thanks for coming by, and Happy Sleuthing!

Lisa Lickel is a Wisconsin writer who lives with her husband in a hundred and sixty-year-old house built by a Great Lakes ship captain. Surrounded by books and dragons, she writes inspiring fiction. Her published novels include mystery and romance, all with a twist of grace. She has penned dozens of feature newspaper stories, short stories, magazine articles and radio theater. She is the editor in chief of Creative Wisconsin magazine. Lisa also is an avid book reviewer, a freelance editor, an editor at Port Yonder Press, a writing mentor, a hostess at Clash of the Titles.com, and enjoys blogging at theBarnDoor.net and ReflectionsinHindsight.wordpress.com. She loves to encourage new authors. Find her at LisaLickel.com.

 Recently I had the pleasure of speaking to a small group of young, aspiring writers, and I came away from that afternoon very inspired myself.

It was very encouraging to see young people with such a strong desire to follow their dreams. They asked me about writing, the publishing industry, marketing your work, and so many other questions—however, the main thing I took away from that moment was to get back to basics.

Yes, as authors, we strive to write the best books, and we work hard to market our name and get in touch with as many readers as we can, but are we making sure not to lose ourselves in the process? That’s what I found myself asking as I drove home. I told the students to always strive to be true to themselves and not to try to mold their work to fit a specific publisher’s wants. If they remain true to themselves and write from their hearts, they will find the right publisher who is looking for exactly what they have to offer. The search may take time, but if this is their dream to get published, I told them to persevere and not give up.

I handed out some information on writing websites, tips for writing, ideas on how to journal and some other useful starting points, and they seemed to really appreciate the help. A comment from one of the students that really impacted me was that she said—this is my dream and I’m going to make it because I’m not giving up…simple but so true, and words for every author to live by.

I’ve been writing for a long time now, and every now and then, it’s good to rock the boat and learn from young people—people who still know how to dream. I’m trying to keep that dream alive in my heart…the dream of a 15 year old sophomore student – when my English teacher so impacted my life and I knew this was IT for me. I wanted THIS. I wanted to be a writer and nothing was going to stop me. It took a while for me to get here, and I have so much further to go, but I’m here for the long haul and want to enjoy the ride and all that God has in store for my life.

Has anything inspired you lately? I’d love to hear about it.

Joanne Troppello is an author of romantic suspense novels.  She has published three books: Shadowed Remembrances, Mr. Shipley’s Governess and Bella Lucia. Currently, she is working on her new writing project, The Paradise Redeemed Series. Joanne is married and loves spending time with her husband and family. She enjoys interacting with readers at The Mustard Seed Blog.

Joanne's Blog: The Mustard Seed

Joanne on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joannetroppello

Joanne on Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/JoanneTroppello

Bella Lucia by Joanne Troppello

After being married for six years, Gwen and Lucas DeStefano are dealing with the pain of a childless marriage and trying to trust God for their future. On a weekend getaway to the Poconos, they attempt to relax and renew their marriage, but witness an event that turns their lives upside down. They see a body dumped in the woods while they are on a hike, and their lives become entangled in a web of suspense and God’s ultimate blessing in the form of a little baby girl named Bella Lucia. Will Gwen learn to trust God with childlike faith and wholeheartedly accept His plan?

Det. Marc Abrams is assigned to the murder investigation of Sabrina Reysen, and he will do whatever it takes to find her killer. He has his suspicions and is pleasantly surprised when he meets Samantha “Sam” Collins, the attractive US Marshall assigned to protect one of the witnesses in this case. Will Det. Abrams find the killer before it’s too late, and is the attraction between him and Sam strong enough to survive?

Purchase Link for Bella Lucia

More Love and Laughter from New York Times Bestselling Author

Margaret Brownley

“I’ve matched up twenty-three couples over the years and in all that time I only made one error. Although I still think the marriage would have worked had she not shot her husband.”

—From Dawn Comes Early (Brides of Last Chance Ranch)

 “Daily Reasons to Smile” Contest

Characters from Margaret’s new book will send you a reason to smile every day until April11th. Join in the fun and you could win a book, potted cactus (the story takes place in Arizona Territory) or an iPod Nano and alarm clock docking station. To enter send an email to info@NancyBerland.com. Be sure to put “Reason to Smile” in the subject line. That’s it!

AND NOW...

Meet Kate Tenney (Disgraced dime novelist and Heroine of Margaret’s Latest book “Dawn Comes Early,” the first book in The Brides of Last Chance Ranch series.)

Hello Kate, welcome to Secret Lives of Characters on this Secrets Sunday. Can you please tell us something about yourself, about your past; maybe something we won’t learn about you in the book?

Born and raised in Boston I’m a college-educated woman. I learned at an early age that you can’t rely on people—especially men. I longed for something in my life that was permanent and so I put my stock in land and education.  I figured no one could take away my education and land was about as permanent as you can get. I was set for life.  Or so I thought.    

Hmm... Sounds like you definitely have some trust issues. What about regret? Do you have any profound regrets in your past that you wouldn’t mind sharing with those who might read your story?

I regret having burned down the apartment house when I was ten. 

That must have been horrifying! Sounds like you've lived through some interesting experiences. What compelled you to want to tell your story to Margaret? (Did she approach you, or did you approach her?)

Margaret has a habit of reading old newspapers (don’t ask me why).  Anyway, she read an article about a bunch of ladies of the First Church of Milford in New York who decided to form a society of old maids in 1861. Each member vowed she would not marry. Each woman paid five dollars on admission with the principal going to the one who remained unmarried the longest.  Thirty years later all but fifteen of the original had married. After reading that article Margaret came to me and asked if I would be willing to sign a legal document forbidding me to marry in return for inheriting a huge cattle ranch in Arizona territory.  Naturally, I said yes. Land is permanent; men are not. Land was something on which I could put my trust; it would never let me down.

There go those trust issues again. They must have been indelible for you to be willing to sign such a document. Still, it must have taken a good deal of trust to tell your story to someone. What was it like working with Margaret? Do the two of you have anything in common?

We’re both writers which meant we battled constantly over storyline.  She wanted to do it her way but my way was best. Would you believe she wanted to kill me off!  I put my foot down and insisted upon a happy ending.

Well, that's good. You had me worried. Tell us about someone in the story whom you felt, or still feel conflicted with. Who is it, and why do you think that is?

I was deserted by my father and grandfather.  My mother deserted me too, if not physically, at least emotionally.  My early years taught me never to trust anyone and that caused me great pain. Margaret wanted me to forgive and forget but that’s easier said than done. This is one area where we had to compromise.  

Oh, desertion. That would definitely be difficult to overcome. Without giving anything away, can you give us a hint at something you learned in the course of living out your story? Or --  if possible -- without spilling the beans, can you tell us anything about how you felt, or what led to the darkest moment you can recall?

The biggest shock of my life was learning that nothing is permanent except God. 

Was there a point in your life that you felt God had deserted you, or that He was never there in the first place?

I felt this way pretty much all my life. Mama used to say that good things don’t happen to the likes of us, and I believed her. Of course that was before I met the people of Cactus Patch, Arizona.

I'm curious to read your story, and to find out about that hope those folks gave you. What do you hope that readers will take away with them after hearing about your life?

Anything as long as it’s not that handsome blacksmith Luke Adams. He’s mine, all mine!

*Chuckle*

Well, then, if you could say one more thing to someone in the story, someone whom you don’t know if or when you’d meet again, to whom would it be and what would you like them to know?

I would look my Mama in the eye and say, “You were wrong. Good things do happen to the likes of us as long as you open your heart to God.”

Do you think you’llever collaborate with Margaret on another book in the future, a sequel perhaps?

One thing I learned through this process is that I’d much rather write my own books than help Margaret with hers.

What about anyone else in the story... have they implied that they’d be willing to tell more about their lives?

Luke’s busy-body Aunt Bessie considers herself a woman of the world (or at least of Cactus Patch). Good luck trying to keep her nose out of future books.

Well, Kate, thank you for the insights, and for sharing a little bit about your Secret Life.

Thank you for having me. By the way I can be reached through Margaret’s website:

www.margaretbrownley.com

Thrills, mystery, suspense, romance: Margaret penned it all. Nothing wrong with this—except Margaret happened to be writing for the church newsletter. After making the church picnic read like a Grisham novel, her former pastor took her aside and said, "Maybe God's calling you to write fiction."          

So that’s what Margaret did. She’s now a New York Times best selling author and a Romance Writers of America RITA finalist with more than 25 novels to her credit.

In addition to her new book Dawn Comes Early, Margaret’s also excited to announce that her non-fiction book Grieving God’s Way: The Path to Hope and Healing will be published in July—not bad for someone who flunked 8th grade English. Just don’t ask her to diagram a sentence.

Don't forget to enter Margaret's "Daily Reasons to Smile" Contest and Write On!

Today I'm pleased to introduce to you Because of Me, a new novel by Fay Lamb, as well as an interview with the novel's protagonist, Issie Putnam.

Because of Me

Not your typical Christian fiction.

Michael’s fiancée, Issie Putnam, was brutally attacked, and Michael was imprisoned for a crime he didn’t commit. Now he’s home to set things right. Two people stand in his way: Issie’s son, Cole, and a madman. Can Michael learn to love the child Issie holds so close to her heart and protect him from the man who took everything from Michael so long ago?

Character Interview:

Please welcome Issie Putnam.

Issie, I'd like to begin by asking you,what's the most important thing in your life?

My son, Cole Michael Putnam. Everyone in my life—everyone but my father and my wonderful friends, Rhonda Hayes and Matilda Reilly—told me to abort Cole. My brother-in-law told me no one should be forced to keep a child conceived the way Cole was conceived. I shudder at the thought. How much would I have missed without my precious son by my side?

That's true. There's nothing more precious than a child. What then, if I may ask, is the biggest fear in your life?

I have two major fears: losing Cole and never having Michael Hayes back in my life.

Cole's middle name is Michael. Is he named after Michael Hayes?

His middle name yes. Michael's mother, Rhonda, wanted me to give Cole Michael's full name, but Michael didn't know about Cole. I did decide to give him the middle name of Michael because somehow it comforted me. I've missed Michael Hayes for so long.

You said Michael didn't know about Cole. What did you expect his reaction to be upon meeting your son and realizinng he wasn't Cole's father?

Well, first off, Michael couldn't be Cole's father. Michael was like every teenage boy. He tried on occasion, but he was also honorable. All I had to do was say, "no" once, and Michael would back away with a teasing smile. As far as Michael meeting Cole, I expect him to blame himself for what happened to me, but I know my Michael. I expect him to take awhile to come around, but I believe he will come to love Cole. Michael's father left him when he was young, and Michael never got over that fact. Cole has never had a father.

How does it feel to know that your life could have been different if you and Michael had not fallen into the trap set for you, the trap that pulled the two of you a part?

With all that's within me, I wish Michael had not been sent to prison for a crime he didn't commit. But let's get one thing straight—I don't blame Michael for any of this. Tom Jervis and Kip Turner's actions pulled me from Michael's grasp that night and nothing else. Still, when I look back and I try to think of life as it could have been, there's someone special, a little boy that I love more than life itself, and if things had happened differently, Cole wouldn't have been. And that thought makes me sadder than anything Michael or I have endured.

I haven't read it yet, but Because of Me sounds like a heart-wrenching story of honor and choices and finding a way back to love. Thank you, Issie, for allowing readers a glimpse into your life, and to Fay Lamb for introducing you here on Write Reason.

Because of Me is available through all fine book retailers, Amazon.com, and Mountainview Publishing, a division of Treble Heart Books.

Purchase the book at Amazon at: http://www.amazon.com/Because-of-Me-ebook/dp/B00722KIME/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1327670357&sr=8-1

Or at Treble Heart Books at: www.trebleheartbooks.com/MVLamb.html

Fay Lamb works as an acquisition/copyeditor for Pelican Book Group (White Rose Publishing and Harbourlight Books), offers her services as a freelance editor, and is an author of Christian romance and romantic suspense. Her emotionally charged stories remind the reader that God is always in the details. Because of Me, her debut, romantic, suspense novel is soon to be released by Treble Heart Books/Mountainview Publishing.

Fay has a passion for working with and encouraging fellow writers. As a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), she co-moderates the large Scribes’ Critique Group and manages the smaller Scribes’critique groups. For her efforts, she was the recipient of the ACFW Members Service Award in 2010.

In 2012, Fay was also elected to serve as secretaryon ACFW’s Operating Board.

Fay and her husband, Marc, reside in Titusville, Florida, where multi-generations of their families have lived. The legacy continues with their two married sons and five grandchildren.

Here's a new kind of book exam. Join me by video as I give a review of Laurie Alice Eake's newest books in her Midwives series -- Heart's Safe Passage.

Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/7m5a5ah

Barnes & Noble: http://tinyurl.com/3gelmzp

Desert Breeze / Other Formats: http://tinyurl.com/43jbuvd

In today's post, author and evangelist Zeke Lam, shares some thoughts applicable to both men and women on intimacy with Christ.

ZEKE LAM is the founder of SUBMISSION Ministries—a ministry devoted to seeing lost souls encounter God and live lives fully surrendered to the risen Christ. A graduate of Liberty University, Zeke’s deep passion for following Christ’s will has led him through many years of youth ministry and itinerant evangelism. Both of these experiences have enriched and fueled his desire to hand others the keys to a Christ-centered life. Zeke resides in Virginia with his beautiful wife, Kathleen, and a growing family of future world-changers.

Mary and Martha

            Scattered throughout the New Testament Gospel books are several interesting and powerful interactions between Jesus and women. In each case, an intriguing lesson is brought to light for the individual and very applicable to our present day. From the story of the widow and her two mites in Luke 21 to the lady touching the hem of Jesus’ garment in Luke 8, to the woman at the well in John 4, each case provides valuable truths.

            While each are critical and essential depending on the season of life a person is currently facing, the story of Mary and Martha in Luke 10:38-42 has offered significant help at various times in my life. Hosting Jesus was a privilege indeed. Mary sat at the feet of Jesus and worshipped while Martha was busy with much serving. This busyness became a distraction in her life from her chance to be at the feet of Jesus.

            I could spend a lot elaborating on this verse, but the intent of this post is to highlight one simple truth. This truth is summed up in verse 42 as Jesus proclaims that Mary chose the one thing that cannot be taken from her: a relationship with the Lord. There are so many things in this life that we cling to with all our might. Our jobs, ministries, reputations, families, etc, are among the possessions we hold to and render all our time to. Yet, none of the examples just mentioned are guarantees.

            Is there anything wrong with laboring? No. Is there anything wrong with striving hard to be a good provider, mother, minister, or employee? No. In fact, it is our duty to perform these actions as unto the Lord and for His glory. However, under no circumstance should these things become a distraction or idol separating us from the presence of our Savior.

            Notice why Jesus corrected the actions of Martha. Verse 40 points out that she was distracted by the much serving. We must never allow our calling to hinder our relationship with the Caller. Both women and men in our society have extreme challenges to face. Juggling the responsibilities of this world while remaining at the feet of our Savior requires submission and faithfulness. Under no circumstance can we place Jesus second or third place on our list. Anything above Him is idolatry. If this is our current situation, we must re-prioritize to ensure proper order in our lives.

            This passage of Scripture has been very instrumental in my life. It is so easy to lose sight of the fact that our first priority is to love Jesus Christ with all our heart, soul, and mind. All other aspects of our life must flow out of this intimacy with Him. Remember, this is the only treasure that you and I possess that cannot be stripped from us.

            Mary and Martha had an experience with Jesus here that highlights a core truth. He longs for us to long for Him. He is not concerned with what we can merely do for Him. He wants our hearts to align with His and be willing to be His vessel. These ladies had the privilege of receiving a lesson firsthand that stands strong in significance today. 

_______________________________________________________

What is the greatest challenge that the Church is facing today? Zeke Lam suggests that one word is the greatest challenge:  submission, or the lack thereof. It is not external forces that nullify the testimony of a Christ-centered believer, but rather the failure to humbly submit to the voice of the Lord. His book SUBMISSION will help you to live a surrendered life abiding in Christ.

•   Is the approval of God more important to you than the approval of man?
•   Is the presence of God evident in your life?
•   Do you fiercely protect your intimacy with Christ?
•   Do you desire to live a life of truth, free from the lies of the devil?
•   Is God’s divine character visible to those around you?

Learn how to submit your life wholeheartedly to the Lord so that you can dwell continually in the secret place—a place of intimacy, surrender and joy.

Prepare to be stirred by this authentic calling to return to Scriptural obedience.

—Pastor Gabe Turner, The Point Church of Charlottesville, Virginia

In my opinion Zeke has laid his finger on the defining message for our time. This message is essential for believers everywhere…

—Eric Stephens, Pastor of Life ChangingMinistries and Fellowship in Sugarland, Texas

Amazon Link: http://www.amazon.com/subMISSION-heeding-only-His-voice/dp/193748100X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1326126281&sr=1-1

 ISBN-13                 978-1-9374-8100-1

 ISBN-10                 1-9374-8100-X

 Author website - http://submissionministries.org/

I can never ignore a new novel spin-off the ever-enchanting Beauty and the Beast story. Now Melanie Dickerson has put her own stamp on this timeless tale. It's one of the best I've read so far.  In The Merchant's Daughter, Ms. Dickenson doesn't adhere to a magical or fantasy telling of the childhood story, but sets it in a very realistic medieval village, in mid-1300s England.

What I liked most about this book was the way she managed to bring the original story elements into this realistic setting:

**The heroine, Annabel, is a merchant's daughter whose father's ships were destroyed. After his passing, she lives with her very slothful brothers and her rather vain mother. I liked that Ms. Dickerson included this family element. Many versions of the tale over the years have included various numbers of "Beauty's" siblings. Did you know there were 12 in the original? Nothing like the Disney version, huh?


**Readers are given a valid reason for Annabel to wind up at the beastly Lord Ranulf's estate. She's indentured to pay the fine for her family's failed responsibility to do their share of work during the village harvest. She goes willingly, knowing that her family ought to have worked.

**Anabel is pursued by an underhanded bailiff who is thought of highly by the villagers, but who is a threat to Anabel's future and personal safety.

**Lord Ranulf is scarred both physically and emotionally by his past. His countenance is dour and his mannerisms brusque, giving him a terrifying reputation.

**Ms. Dickerson slips in the rose from the original story providing a symbolic correlation to Ranulf's death becoming imminent if Anabelle won't save him.

**Ranulf's utter transformation at the end from "beastly" to "princely" was beautifully written, and I loved the way the author managed to keep this element in the story without the magic of the fairytale.

The only criticism from a writer's perspective, and one which I doubt will matter much to most readers, was an occasional slippage from the deep point of view usually desired, with an occasional indulgence in telling and be-verbs. But such occurences were slight and easily overlooked by the rest of the story's dynamic plotting and dialogue.

I thought the major theme of discrimination was handled adroitly in The Merchant's Daughter, but my favorite story premise emerged in the line, "...love is greater than justice." Even though justice was served in the end, I found it a resonating truth that it's better to show mercy than to be right.

Ms. Dickerson's novel provides readers the pleasant escape we all need now and then. I enjoyed being carried away into it. That, at least, was magical.

Write on!

If you're a fan of romantic suspense, I happily recommend BJRobinson's Last Resort set in fictional Bridal Wreath, Florida. In this drama of finding new dreams amidst the escape of past horrors, Robinson creates several story elements very well.

First, she creates an appealing chemistry between the hero and heroine. Their introduction to one another at a church social is full of spunk and "flavorful" dialogue when he winds up covered in strawberry shortcake.

Next, I always like a good villain. Last Resort may be a sweet romance, but the villain is pure evil. He's a dangerous ex-fiancé of the heroine who simply won't let her go. But even though he's dark pretty much through and through, Robinson helps the reader connect to him by giving glimpses into his psyche. One of my very favorite lines in the book is in a scene where we are watching his mind at work. Through the eyes of Faith Roussell, the story's protagonist, we learn that "his voice would crack ice, and his laugh was that of a madman." I loved that!

Another thing I liked about the book was the way Robinson deftly wove gun-ownership themes into it. That's a touchy subject, but being agun-owner, I appreciated the care she took to knit this theme into the story. I also liked the story's setting being on a strawberry farm. That's pretty much a first in my reading.

Romantic as Last Resort is, Robinson does a fine job of showing us Faith Roussell's desire when she tells another character, "Lilly, when you carry your dreams in your heart, no one and nothing can take them from you. Mine are safely tucked away deep, and God sees them. He knows my heart. My dreams are not dead."

She has to put those words to the test when things start going wrong, however, and her new romance with her next door neighbor, the handsome, witty Matt Allen, is threatened by her nemesis ex and a cagey female besides.

I have to admit, I don't often read this genre, but I found Last Resort to be enjoyable escapism. From Desert Breeze Publishing, Last Resort is available as an eBook everywhere.

Write and read on!

http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-template/NaomiMusch/Page.bok

A new guest is joining me today on Secrets Sunday. This fellow joins us from the pages of Tom Blubaugh's brand new release, Night of the Cossack.

Hello, welcome to Secret's Sunday. In hoping to get to know a little more about you today, can you please tell us your name and something about yourself, about your past; maybe something we won’t learn about you in the book?

My name is Israel. I’m Nathan’s little brother. I really look up to Nathan since my father isn’t alive. One of the elders in our village took me out in the woods and taught me how to shoot his rifle.  Neither Momma or Nathan knew anything about this. I’m really glad I learned how to shoot. With Nathan gone, I am the hunter and can provide Momma with meat. If I weren’t able to do this, we would be totally dependent on others in the village.

Do you have any profound regrets in your past that you wouldn’t mind sharing with those who might read your story?

I wish I weren’t so young when father died. I didn’t get to know him like Nathan did. I’m angry about this. Now with Nathan gone I’m the man of the house and I don’t really know how to do this.

What compelled you to want to tell your story to Mr. Blubaugh?  

It really isn’t my story to tell. I’m just a small part of it. Tom approached Nathan about his life because Nathan died before Tom was born. Tom didn’t get to experience Nathan as his grandfather like I didn’t get to experience my father.

What was it like working with Tom? Do the two of you have anything in common?

It was very exciting to work with him the short time I was there. I could really identify with Tom since I have a big gap in my life not having my father. I admired him for pursuing Nathan’s story. I will probably do this with my father. Tom had a hard time getting information because Nathan kept so much information from his children. I intend to find out all I can about father from Momma.

Tell us about someone in the story whom you felt, or still feel conflicted with? Why do you think that is?

I have a lot of resentment toward Vasile, but I’m not able to share my reasons with you. It would reveal an important part of the story. You have to read Tom’s novel to find out.

Without giving anything away, can you give us a hint at something  you learned in the course of living out your story? Or- if possible-without spilling the beans, can you tell us anything about how you felt, or what led to the darkest moment you recall?

Let me think a minute about this. I learned how important Nathan was to me. I wish I had listened more to what he had to say. I was jealous of him. I know he was older and could physically do things I couldn’t, but I was still jealous. That’s as much as I can tell you.

Was there a point in your life that you felt God had deserted you, or that He was never there in the first place?

I wasn’t sure about God. I had two great losses in my childhood—Nathan and my father. My perception of God is that he is punitive. I can’t help but wonder what Momma and I did to deserve what happened.

What do you hope that readers will take away with them after hearing about your life?

They hear very little about my life, but I guess I would say I hope they realize how quickly someone you love can be taken out of your life. We need to make the most of every relationship, especially family, by telling them we love them and show them we love them by spending time with them and respecting them as a gift.

If you could say one more thing to someone in the story, someone whom you don’t know if or when you’d meet again, to whom would it be and what would you like them to know?

It would be to Nathan. I would tell him how much I love and respect him. There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t think of him and wish he were here.

Do you think you’ll ever collaborate with Tom on another book in the future? What about anyone else in the story…have they implied that they’d be willing to tell more about their lives?

I think so. I know he’s planning on doing a sequel. He’s hinted I’ll be in it. Right now he’s busy building his platform and making a name for himself. I don’t know about anyone else.

Well, thank you for the insights, Israel, and for sharing a little bit about your story on this Secrets Sunday!

Tom Blubaugh wrote Night of the Cossack a historical novel published by Bound by Faith Publishers after having written non-fiction most of his adult life. He is now writing a sequel. As a retired but active senior, he enjoys writing, photography, Bocce Ball, horseshoes and time with his wife, Barbara, and family. They have six children and fourteen grandchildren.

http://nightofthecossack.com/

Today I'm welcoming a group of guests from Staci Stallings's book "Cowboy". These characters join us today via a transcribed television interview from News From Nashville & Beyond.  "The Music Plays... World Tour" features opening solo artist Kalin Lane and headliner Ashton Raines, both accompanied by their wives, Beth Raines and DanaeLane.

NFNB:  First of all,welcome to you all.  Thanks for sittingdown with us.

Ashton:  Thank you for having us.

NFNB:  Let's start with what it's like to be on a world tour. What cities?  What are the crowds like?

Kalin:  Well, for me it's been an absolute dream come true.  I mean, getting invited to be here with Ashton who, let's face it is the King ofCountry music right now.  Standing on that stage every night, hearing the fans singing my songs, cheering, in all these different countries... it's truly amazing.

Ashton:  I have to agree.  I stand down there as Kalin's playing, and there's just this incredible energy that sweeps through the whole place, no matter if we're playing for 20,000 or 60,000.  To hear those fans, to get to connect with them.  It's what I came here to do, it's why I started singing in the first place, and to get to do it night after night has been such a blessing.

NFNB:  How's it been working together?  The two of you play country music, but it's really not quite the same kind of country.

Ashton (laughing): Yeah. I could never pull off the hair!  (Reaches over and ruffles Kalin's famously stringy blond mane then shrugs.) But it works, you know?  I play the more traditional stuff, Kalin rocks the house, it works.

Kalin:  I have to agree. I think it has really come together because we're not two performers who happen to get on the same stage every night. We really understand each other and respect each other for what life has thrown at us and the hard knocks it's taken us to be able to play from the heart so to speak.  So it doesn't matter that he plays the acoustic and piano, and I've got more electric and keyboards to my style of music because I think deep down we both really see that we're doing what we love to do, making the kind of music we love to make.  When you do that, somehow the synthesis of what comes out of it just works even if on the outside it doesn't look like it should.

NFNB:  You mentioned what life has thrown at you.  Would you call the road to get here bumpy or smooth?

(Ashton looks to Beth who smiles back, and Kalin grins at Danae who brushes her brown locks from her forehead and shakes her head with a soft laugh.)

All:  Bumpy.

(Laughter)

Ashton:  Definitely bumpy.  (Beth nods, her eyes filled with respect and love as she looks at her husband, and the two of them share a moment.  When he turns back to the camera, Ashton seems to drift into another world.)  After my first wife died of cancer, there was a long stretch in there that, honestly, I didn't even want to be here.  I mean here as in making music here, but even here as in on the planet.  Then one night I wound up in this little diner in the middle of nowhere (He looks over to Beth.)  And an angel from Heaven pulled me back and gave me a reason to keep on living. (As if no one else is watching, he leans over and kisses.)  Thank you, Babe (he whispers so the camera barely catches the words. Then he turns back.) To be real honest, I'm not even sure I'd be here without her.

NFNB:  So Beth, what was it like?  I mean, he is Ashton Raines.  It's like every girl's dream to have the king of music walk in and sweep you off your feet.  That must have been surreal.

(They glance at each other.)

Beth:  Well, to be honest with you, I didn't even know who he was that night.

NFNB:  You didn't?

Beth:  No, really Ididn't. It's a long story, but let's just say I fell in love with a man, not a music star.

NFNB:  Okay.  Well... (Turning to the other couple.) Kalin, you also said bumpy.  Now we know a little about your career's early fits and starts what with having to go back to your home country the first time around. What was that like?

Kalin:  Rough.  Really, really rough.  To be honest with you, that first time I let the fame and the money and the adulation of all the people around me go straight to my head.  I fell in with a lifestyle I thought was great at first, but it caught up with me real fast.  When I lost everything--the dream, my meal ticket in Nashville and almost my life--I thought it was all over, you know?  Back then, there was no way Icould have seen the amazing grace God was waiting to give me and the joy and the mercy and the grace He gives me every day now. Getting to be here now, like this, with the Raines family, and my beautiful wife... (He turns to Danae and smiles. She smiles back.)  I'm telling you it's more than a dream come true.  In fact, it's the reason I sing "Lucky" every night out there on stage.

That line about, "And it's not fate, it's not luck, it's a gift from God above, that I found you, you found me, and we found love"?  Those aren't just nice, pretty words. I really believe that, you know? Because if it was not for God and the love of this wonderful, strong woman sitting next to me, I can almost guarantee I would not be sitting here today.  It's more grace and love than I've ever deserved or imagined, I'll tell you that.

NFNB:  Well, it's almost time to wrap this up.  Closing thoughts, anyone?

Ashton:  The tour's been amazing.  The fans, the cities, the experiences.  All out amazing.

Kalin:  Come out and see the show!

NFNB:  That's it for now from News from Nashville & Beyond. Now back to you in the studio.

Read more about Ashton and Beth's story in "Cowboy" (http://www.amazon.com/Cowboy-The-Harmony-Series-ebook/dp/B0049B2E82/ref=dp_kinw_strp_1?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2) available now for only $0.99. Cowboy is Book 1 of The Harmony Series by StaciStallings.)

Kalin and Danae are featured in "Lucky" -- Book 2 of the Harmony Series.

Look for The Harmony Series by Staci Stallings on Kindle and Nook!

A stay-at-home mom with a husband, three kids and a writing addiction on the side, Staci Stallings has numerous titles for readersto choose from.  Not content to stay in one genre and write it to death, Staci’s stories run the gamut from young adult to adult, from motivational and inspirational to full-out Christian and back again.  Every title is a new adventure!  That’s what keeps Staci writing and you reading.  Although she lives in Amarillo, Texas and her main career right now is her family, Staci touches the lives of people across the globe every week with her various Internet endeavors including:

Books In Print, Kindle, & FREE on Spirit Light Works:

http://stacistallings.wordpress.com/

Spirit Light Books--The Blog: http://spiritlightbooks.wordpress.com/

And… Staci’s website http://www.stacistallings.com  Come on over for a visit…

You’ll feel better for the experience!