Meaningful Suspense

Formatting Your Manuscript for Amazon Kindle

2012-01-27T13:45:00.001-06:00

A special thank you to Jill Williamson.

Formatting a Manuscript for Submission

2012-01-27T13:18:00.002-06:00

A special thank you to Jill Williamson.

Blumer Editorial: Celebrating Our Fifth Anniversary as a Full-time Business

2012-01-27T10:02:00.000-06:00

Happy fifth anniversary, Blumer Editorial! This home-based business would never have happened without God's leading and grace, and to Him be all glory for what He has done.

That's right. I don't just write novels. I work from home as a freelance writer and editor.

But what did God do? you may wonder. How did this business come to be? Maybe you don't know the story behind this edit-from-home gig I've been doing for more than five years. Well, I'm happy to share the story because it reveals (better than I could ever describe in a novel) how our sovereign and all-wise God works and orchestrates in His time.

On January 13, 2006, I was an editor at Northland Baptist Bible College (now Northland International University [Dunbar, WI]), where I'd been serving for more than a decade, when I was given the pink slip. The college was going through cutbacks, and I had to say auf wiedersehen by the end of May (for more details about my layoff, see this article). I'd be a liar if I didn't admit that that last semester at the college was a very tumultuous time for me because I didn't know what I was going to do, but God was quietly working behind the scenes. Within a few months a few interested parties asked me to consider doing editing work for them from home. By the time May rolled around, I took the big step of working from home part time, but I also did some early-morning package handling for FedEx to help pay the bills.

Summer 2006 was one of the most difficult summers of my life. Gone were the years of receiving a steady paycheck every two weeks. I was on a true journey of faith. I had no idea if this business would work; I dreaded the thought of selling our house (which we love) and moving somewhere to work for strangers. Somehow I worked FedEx and edited projects from home, and God provided. Meanwhile, my parents and in-laws joined forces to help us build a literal office into the basement of our house. Thank you, Mom and Dad Blumer and Mom and Dad Melzer! I wouldn't have this awesome office to work in every day if it hadn't been for your hard work and support during that hot, crazy summer.

In January 2007, I had enough work to say good-bye to FedEx early-morning package handling (no offense to this elite group) and stay home to edit full time. So I've been doing this editing business full time for five years—that's what I'm celebrating today. As you can see, this change in vocation was no confident move on my part. It was a bona fide step of faith. God pushed me out of a stable job at the college because He had something else in mind. He even opened the door for me to publish novels (the fulfillment of a lifelong dream).When I weigh the pros and cons of working at home, I'd pick working at home in a heartbeat. I save lots of money on gas, and I get to see my wife and daughters throughout the day. The isolation can be difficult at times, I'll admit, but being home has so many benefits.

I'd be a liar if I said the last five years have been nothing but big paychecks and steady work. Ha! I rarely, if ever, get "big paychecks," and the work is often less than consistent. It's often "feast or famine" in this business. Some months are crazy busy, and I take on extra work to try to make up for the month when I have barely anything to do. In the headline, I wrote "our" because my wife, Kim, has played a major role in making this edit-from-home thing work, too. In addition to homeschooling our daughters, she works a part-time job from home to help relieve some of the financial pressure I carry. So I say, "Thank you, dear wife."

And thank You, God, for how You lead and provide.

Here's to five years of experiencing Your provision and faithfulness.

Will this business survive another five years? Who knows? Sometimes I frankly feel like chucking it. Finding steady clients can be difficult, and this economy makes getting adequate income to provide for the four of us even more of a challenge. But I'll trust God to lead day by day. And if I ever have to close the doors, then God has something better for me to do. Praise His name!

The Stalking of the President - Charles Guiteau and James A. Garfield | Past Imperfect

2012-01-20T08:31:00.000-06:00

Fascinating article about the Garfield assassin.

The Stalking of the President - Charles Guiteau and James A. Garfield | Past Imperfect

The Christian Author and Self-Promotion, Part 2

2012-01-20T06:50:00.000-06:00

"Whateveryou do, work heartily, as for theLord and not for men" (Col. 3:23 ESV).

"Renderingservice with a good will as to the Lord and not to man" (Eph. 6:7ESV).

Inlastweek's post, I discussed promotion in general and made a fewobservations.

Self-promotionis not the same thing as product promotion.
Thewriter's life is not beyond biblical scrutiny.
Themotive of everything we do should be to glorify God (1 Cor. 10:31).

Sowhere do we go from here?

Whatdo the above verses tell us? Everything we do should be done for theLord and not for men. Wow.That's a toughie, isn't it? Don't we all tend to be peoplepleasers?

Butif those verses are true, how do we Christian authors respond to thepressure to please our readers? To write for a certain audience? Towant readers to like our books and buy them? To market our materials toexpand our audience? To speak to groups and do radio interviews tofurther our influence? (And I'm not knocking these things—they are allimportant.)

Ithink the word influence maybe helpful in ourdiscussion here. Otherwise, we might reach the conclusion that weshouldn't do any of these things if we intend to obey these verses. Notso fast. Consider the words of John Piper:

Let'sget rid of the word "self-promotion" and refuse to think that way. Idon't ever wantto be self-promoting. I don't like that language. I'm going to say, "Ifwhat I'm promoting here is myself, then I don't want to do it." . .. What I'm promoting is a truththat, by grace, I believe I have seen. . . .

That'swhat the Bible says to do: "Declare his glory among the nations!"Alright! You've got to open your mouth and say what you've seen withyour eyes about his glory. You've got to say that! The Bible would never callthat self-promotion. You're supposed to die in the process! That's notself-promotion. . . .

Thevery process of true spreading is a process of self-denying. "He whowould come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross andfollow me," meaning, "Follow me into proclamation, into gospelspreading, into serving people." Of course you're there, and you'reusing your hands, your mouth, your brain; but it's all death if you'redoing it right.Sothe language I use that may bridges the gap is "influence." Is it rightfor a Christian to want to be influential? And the answer is—if whatis influencing people is the truth, the beauty of Christ, the glory ofGod—"Yes, it's right and good." (http://www.desiringgod.org/resource-library/ask-pastor-john/what-is-the-difference-between-good-and-bad-self-promotion)

Sobased on what Piper is saying, I think we can conclude that if we'rewriting only to promote ourselves and be the next big-shot author, then we are shallow writersindeed. Becausewe have a higher calling.

Acalling to influence the world with God's truth. To proclaim God'sglory.

Inother words, our writing isn't/shouldn't be about us. In fact,based on Scripture, we are to die to ourselves. Deny ourselves. Take upour crosses. Be humble. That certainly doesn't sound like the rock starmentality the world tells us we should have, does it? In fact, it's quite the reverse.

Sowhen we have a message or story to proclaim in book form (and yes, every bookhas a message), we need to see ourselves not as promotingourselves but as promoting God and His truth and His glory. After all,we are only his microphones for truth.

After all, weare/should be dead to self. But He is alive.

It'snot about us. It's about something—about Someone—so muchbigger.

Ifwe keep that in mind, we'll forget about the whole fame/ego thing thatcan go along with being a published author. And we'll understand thatmarketing and building a platform and doing radio interviews—evenwriting books that are appealing to our readers—are things that aren't really aboutus.

They're about something—about Someone—so much bigger.

"It'sall death if you're doing it right" (Piper). Something to ponder. Untilnext time.

Fuel Your Critique Group With Google+ | Author Media

2012-01-17T13:28:00.000-06:00

Fuel Your Critique Group With Google+ | Author Media

From Spurgeon's Morning and Evening

2012-01-16T08:41:00.000-06:00

January 12, Evening

"I have yet to speak on God's behalf." --Job 36:2

We ought not to court publicity for our virtue, or notoriety for our zeal; but, at the same time, it is a sin to be always seeking to hide that which God has bestowed upon us for the good of others. A Christian is not to be a village in a valley, but "a city set upon a hill;" he is not to be a candle under a bushel, but a candle in a candlestick, giving light to all. Retirement may be lovely in its season, and to hide one's self is doubtless modest, but the hiding of Christ in us can never be justified, and the keeping back of truth which is precious to ourselves is a sin against others and an offence against God. If you are of a nervous temperament and of retiring disposition, take care that you do not too much indulge this trembling propensity, lest you should be useless to the church. Seek in the name of Him who was not ashamed of you to do some little violence to your feelings, and tell to others what Christ has told to you. If thou canst not speak with trumpet tongue, use the still small voice. If the pulpit must not be thy tribune, if the press may not carry on its wings thy words, yet say with Peter and John, "Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee." By Sychar's well talk to the Samaritan woman, if thou canst not on the mountain preach a sermon; utter the praises of Jesus in the house, if not in the temple; in the field, if not upon the exchange; in the midst of thine own household, if thou canst not in the midst of the great family of man. From the hidden springs within let sweetly flowing rivulets of testimony flow forth, giving drink to every passer-by. Hide not thy talent; trade with it; and thou shalt bring in good interest to thy Lord and Master. To speak for God will be refreshing to ourselves, cheering to saints, useful to sinners, and honouring to the Saviour. Dumb children are an affliction to their parents. Lord, unloose all Thy children's tongue.

The Christian Author and Self-Promotion, Part 1

2012-01-13T09:36:00.008-06:00

As you can tell by the title, I plan to tackle a topic sure to raise the blood pressure and perhaps even cause some discussion. The topic of self-promotion is one I've wrestled with for some time, especially as I constantly read posts in writing forums about how we authors must brand, market, build our platforms, etc. It's all self-promotion, isn't it? Or is it?

Is promotion itself wrong? Of course not.

Naturally, as authors, we want customers to buy our books. Is that a bad thing? Not necessarily (unless we're nagging everyone within five miles to buy our book). In a sense, we are Christian businessmen and women. We work hard, produce a product, and hope others see its value enough to buy it. The same could be true of a Christian car salesman. We work hard. We support our families. In that sense, no, I don't believe selling a product is wrong, nor do I believe it's wrong to promote a product.

But is that the same thing as self-promotion? I see a subtle but important difference between promoting a product and promoting ourselves.

So what about promoting ourselves? Is that so evil? I think the answer to that question points to the heart of our motives, and we'll explore that in later installments.

So what does the Bible say about this topic? As I see it, some of this issue boils down to whether we seek to please men or please God, and the Bible is certainly not silent on that issue.

A foundational truth, as I see it, is that if we are writers who believe the Bible and have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, then our writing cannot exist in a compartment that is separate from that. In fact, Scripture is clear that every part of our lives must be dedicated to the glory of God (1 Cor. 10:31). God's glory. Not our glory. I think most believers and Christian authors would agree with me on that point.

So we have established two foundational truths:

First, the writer's life is not beyond biblical scrutiny.
Second, the motive of everything we do should be to glorify God.

So where do we go from here? Until next time . . .

Barnes-Hecker Tragedy

2012-01-10T16:41:00.003-06:00

Very cool! I was able to speak on the phone today with the author of "No Tears in Heaven," the basis for this video. This true story factors into my next novel, but that's all I'm saying for now.

Fifty-one men went to work one cold November day, never to return home. In 1926, Michigan’s worst iron ore mining disaster occurred in western Marquette County. The men were working in the Barnes-Hecker Mine when it caved in. They were fathers, brothers and sons. Now hear their stories through their descendants. You’ll also hear stories of the widows who went on to raise their families and an account of how one man managed to make it out alive.

Based on the book "No Tears in Heaven" by Thomas G. Friggens, director of the Michigan Iron Ore Industry Museum in Negaunee, Michigan.

http://wnmutv.nmu.edu/barnes-hecker.php

The Captive Heart by Dale Cramer

2012-01-09T18:17:00.001-06:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing The Captive Heart Bethany House (January 1, 2012) by Dale Cramer

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Dale Cramer spent his formative years traveling the world as an Army brat, then settled in Georgia at the age of fifteen when his father retired.

After high school he became an electrician, a job that took him to places as diverse as power plants, stadia, airports, high-rise office buildings and a hard-rock mining operation.

Twenty-five years of experiences in the trades provided him with the wealth of characters, stories and insights that populate his novels.

When he married his childhood friend, Pam, in 1975 he had no way of knowing they would not have children until fifteen years later.

In his early forties, when Dale left his job to become a stay-at-home dad, he suddenly found himself with time on his hands, so he pursued a lifelong dream and taught himself to write.

Using an online writer’s forum as a training ground, he wrote his first short stories in 1996. As his writing skills improved he turned to novels, publishing his first book, Sutter’s Cross, in 2003.

Since then, Dale has published four more novels and garnered a measure of critical acclaim with two Christy Awards, a listing among Publisher’s Weekly’s Best Books of 2004 and numerous other Best lists. Dale and his wife Pam live in Georgia with their two sons.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Bandit troubles intensify as Caleb Bender's family tries to settle into their new life in 1920s Paradise Valley. When El Pantera kidnaps Rachel and leaves her brother, Aaron, for dead, Jake Weaver and the Mexican native Domingo pursue the bandit leader to his mountain stronghold in a hopeless rescue attempt. Jake and Domingo manage to escape with Rachel, with the bandits hot on their trail. In a desperate attempt to avoid recapture, Domingo puts himself squarely in harm's way, giving Jake and Rachel time to get away. This is not the quiet life Caleb Bender envisioned when he led his family out of Ohio. What is a father to make of his daughter's obvious affection for a man outside the fold? And how will a pacifist Amishman like Caleb respond to the events that threaten his family and their way of life?

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Captive Heart, go HERE

Divine Sovereignty & Human Responsibility | Challies Dot Com

2012-01-08T14:39:00.000-06:00

This goes along with my last article. Worth thinking about.

Divine Sovereignty & Human Responsibility | Challies Dot Com

Why Do We Pursue a Certain Life's Direction?

2012-01-06T08:00:00.114-06:00

While so many others are writing about new year's resolutions, I've chosen not to. Instead, today's question is this: why do I write? Or—here's a broader question that includes everyone—why do we do what we do, or why do we pursue a certain life's direction?

Because of some rare gene? Early childhood exposure? Ancestry?

Why was my father an engineer for GM? And why didn't I become an engineer like him?

The truth is, from a human perspective, none of us can explain why we go after certain pursuits other than what we heard as children: "Your mommy is really musical, so you'll probably be musical too." The Bible sheds some light on this question when it says that we're "fearfully and wonderfully made" and that this careful planning occurred long before our first breath—in fact, before anybody had any idea what time even was.

The bottom line is that God decides the type of interest we'll pursue. The Bible says, "The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord." God gives us both interest and aptitude for what He wants us to do in life. It's silly of me to think I could be the next big recording artist if I can't carry a tune. If I faint at the sight of blood, I probably won't be a renowned surgeon either.

But there is something God wants me to do. Remember what the New Testament says about the church. We can't all be hands and feet or eyes or noses.

But we are some part, and that part is valuable to God.

I believe God leads us into certain interests, and usually (but not always) we gravitate toward a life's pursuit because of those interests. (Interest+aptitude=direction, right?) It is true, however, that many work a job they don't like because they have a family to support and know no other way to put food on the table. But they still have dreams, don't they? Sometimes dreams stay only dreams, but sometimes God allows those dreams to come true.

And I think those dreams—note, when they match God's dreams—are what give us a worthwhile direction in life.

For me the interest to work with words began at an early age. I had no idea why other than that perhaps my mom read a lot of books and, because of her influence, I became a lover of words and stories too. Later, being a published novelist was something I dreamed about but didn't take too seriously.

Therefore, God leads us to become the people He means us to be, whether a teacher or mechanic or banker. But does that mean we are robots? Does that mean we have no say in the matter? I don't think so. Without getting into a big discussion of Calvinism, I believe Scripture is clear that God won't drag us kicking and screaming to do something we loathe. (If we're robots, then there is no personal responsibility, but the Bible is clear that we are responsible for our actions.)

But God will give us interests that harmonize with His purposes, and somehow (in a way I don't believe anyone can fully understand this side of heaven) our free will meshes with His will. And because He created us and knows us better than anyone else ever could, He guides us along the path we're meant to take. Consider these words from Charles Spurgeon (whom I've been reading a lot lately):

It is but little that we know of Jesus compared with what he knows of us. We have but begun to study him, but he knoweth us altogether. It is a blessed circumstance that the ignorance is not on his side, for then it would be a hopeless case for us.

But our case isn't hopeless because God knows us well enough to lead us along the right path based on the unique DNA He implanted deep within.

So.

Nothing overly eloquent here, but this is a topic I've been mulling over lately.

What about you? What do you think about your path in life?

Do you think we follow certain interests because God decrees them? Or because they're in our genes? Do we have any say in the matter?

Do you ever feel like a robot with the control in God's hands? (I confess that I do sometimes.) Or do you think there's another way to look at it? Go ahead and chime in.

Building Hooks in Your Story | ACFW Blog

2012-01-06T07:02:00.000-06:00

Building Hooks in Your Story | ACFW Blog

10 Ways to Harness Fear and Fuel Your Writing | WritersDigest.com

2012-01-04T08:22:00.000-06:00

10 Ways to Harness Fear and Fuel Your Writing | WritersDigest.com

THE 18 MOST POPULAR ARTICLES ON WRITING OF 2011

2011-12-20T13:13:00.001-06:00

URL: http://www.writersdigest.com/online-editor/the-18-most-...

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Flight to Heaven: A Plane Crash...A Lone Survivor...A Journey to Heaven--and Back [Kindle Edition]

2011-12-19T06:56:00.001-06:00

Free Christian Nonfiction for Kindle

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The Everything Family Christmas Book (Everything (Reference)) [Kindle Edition]

2011-12-17T11:40:00.001-06:00

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God's Answers for Life's Questions [Kindle Edition]

2011-12-17T11:37:00.001-06:00

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A Time to Write

2011-12-15T14:09:00.001-06:00

The book of Ecclesiastes says that for everything, there is a season. Perhaps now is my season to begin writing original content at my blog. Why is this? Some good friends have complained that all I offer at my blog is recycled material from other blogs. Their claim is true—I freely admit it. I have no excuses, other than that I struggle to find time for writing just like thousands of other writers like me. When I'm not editing the writing of others (my day job), I'm battling for time to work on my next novel. Somewhere in there I'm supposed to market my next release and balance that with family time, church time, and the list goes on and on. Yada, yada. We've all heard these complaints before because everyone is busy.

Everyone. Without exception. (What keeps them busy is another story.)

Perhaps that's all they are—complaints. Perhaps it's time for me to test the complaints and see if there's any validity behind them. After all, I'm supposed to be a writer, right?

I freely admit that among writing types, fiction is at the top of my list. Nonfiction is . . . well, it's nonfiction. It's work. Fiction opens the door to creativity for me—it's fun—while nonfiction . . . well, the creative side there is not so quickly apparent. Perhaps I need to shatter my own bias and show that I can be creative and write nonfiction.

Now I'm rambling.

So let's test the complaints and try my hand at writing a weekly article and see where this writing goes. But write about what? Some authors use every blog post to promote their writing ad nauseam. Those who know me well know that that's not me. When I have publishing news to report, I'll report it, but I don't intend to do much more promotional writing beyond that. Those who are interested in my next book can go buy it; those who aren't . . . well, God bless 'em. No hard feelings.

So then what will I write about? Goodness, there are simply too many topics to choose from. So I'll start with what's on the tip of my tongue or—a better metaphor—on the tips of my fingers.

Life is full of stuff to write about, so I'll start there. I have no grand illusions of writing anything so profound that it'll knock you off your chair . . . or your couch . . . or . . . whatever . . . (And if I've got typos, well, such is life. I edit stuff for other people all day; I don't intend to sweat the small stuff on my own words. If there's a typo now and then, please forgive it.) But I do plan to write from the heart about things that are near and dear to me. Things that are significant—at least as I define the word. Keep an eye on this space as I begin writing weekly in 2012. It may be about writing. It may be about politics or Christian living or editing or music or . . . who knows? Keep an eye out.

Great Review of Fatal Illusions at The Suspense Zone

2011-12-15T09:14:00.001-06:00

I'm honored. Check this out!

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Review – Fatal Illusions

Reviewed by Linda Wagner

Tucked in between the suspense and danger, Adam throws in some romance to lower the intensity of the scenes, while keeping your mind on the killings at the edges of your mind. It’s a fine-line approach that intertwines superbly.

What you observe is not always true.

Haydon Owens, a wanna-be-Houdini, had made four young teenage girls, each with blonde hair, blue eyes, and wire-rimmed glasses, disappear. Wanting to change his life around and avoid police capture, he spirits himself off to a small cabin in Newberry, Michigan, where no one knows anything about him. Little did he know that he’d find another blonde, blue-eyed girl with wire-rim glasses that would enrage him.
Read more at www.thesuspensezone.com

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UNC Student Asked Captors to 'Pray' With Her Before She Was Killed, According to Testimony Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/us/2011/12/14/unc-student-fatally-shot-had-asked-capt

2011-12-14T14:37:00.001-06:00

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A popular North Carolina college student gunned down three years ago pleaded for her life in the moments before her death and asked her assailants to pray with her, according to testimony at the murder trial.

Eve Carson, student body president at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, died from multiple gunshot wounds on March 5, 2008, after she was allegedly kidnapped and robbed by two men.
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Next Novel Accepted for Publication

2011-12-02T08:55:00.001-06:00

It's official. Kirkdale Press, the new fiction imprint of Logos Bible Software, will be publishing (e-book only) my second suspense novel, The Tenth Plague. More details coming soon. Praise the Lord! http://www.kirkdalepress.com/

A Marriage Carol by Chris Fabry and Gary Chapman

2011-11-23T06:53:00.000-06:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing A Marriage Carol Moody Publishers (September 1, 2011) by Chris Fabry and Gary Chapman

ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

CHRIS FABRY is a graduate of W. Page Pitt School of Journalism at Marshall University and Moody bible Institute's Advanced Studies Program. Chris can be heard daily on Love Worth Finding, featuring the teaching of the late Dr. Adrian Rogers. He received the 2008 "Talk Personality of the Year" Award from the National Religious Broadcasters. He has published more than 60 books since 1995, many of them fiction for younger readers. Chris collaborated with Jerry B. Jenkins and Dr. Tim LaHaye on the children's series Left Behind: The Kids. His two novels for adults, Dogwood and June Bug, are published by Tyndale House Publishers. Chris is married to his wife Andrea and they have five daughters and four sons.

GARY CHAPMAN is the author of the bestselling Five Love Languages series and the director of Marriage and Family Life Consultants, Inc. Gary travels the world presenting seminars, and his radio program airs on more than 400 stations.

ABOUT THE BOOK

On Christmas Eve twenty years earlier, Marlee and Jacob were married in a snowstorm. This Christmas Eve, they are ready to quit, divorce is imminent. Their relationship is as icy as the road they’re traveling and as blocked with troubles as the piling snow. They take a shortcut to get to the lawyer’s office, on a slippery, no-fault path. She thinks they need to stay on the main road. He disagrees. They fight. Story of their lives and they slam into a bank of snow , spinning, drifting, falling, out of control. Just like their lives. Reluctantly, freezing cold, hungry, scared, she trudges up the hill. Paul is nowhere to be found. Her ears frozen, fingers and hands red, she comes to a house on the hillside, built like a Bed and Breakfast, a green wreath on the red door and the door-knocker is in the shape of a wedding ring.

The red door opens and the first thing she notices is the fire in the room, blazing hot, a warm, inviting, friendly place and the voice of an old man welcomes her in. There are three golden pots on the hearth, shining, glimmering things. The old man claims that they are used to restore marriages. She laughs—and begins a journey through her past, present, and future that will test how she views her lifelong love. There are two futures available. Which will she choose?

If you would like to read the first chapter excerpt of A Marriage Carol, go HERE.

My Review

Since this novel hasn't yet arrived in my mailbox, there isn't much I can say about it just yet. Hopefully, I'll have some comments down the road.

Christian Fiction: They Almost Always Come Home

2011-11-09T06:49:00.001-06:00

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Weekly List of Free Christian Books (November 7, 2011)

2011-11-08T06:53:00.001-06:00

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4 Essential Facebook Page Apps to Improve Communication With Fans

2011-11-06T17:42:00.001-06:00

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Hooked: Write Fiction That Grabs Readers at Page One & Never Lets Them Go

2011-11-06T17:10:00.001-06:00

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Story Structure Architect (Writer's Digest Books)

2011-11-06T17:07:00.001-06:00

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The Complete Guide to Self-Publishing: Everything You Need to Know to Write, Publish, Promote and Sell Your Own Book (Complete Guide to Self-Publishing Everything)

2011-11-06T17:05:00.001-06:00

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The Complete Handbook Of Novel Writing: Everything You Need to Know About Creating & Selling Your Work (Writers Digest)

2011-11-06T17:03:00.001-06:00

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How to Be a Writer: Building Your Creative Skills Through Practice and Play

2011-11-06T17:01:00.001-06:00

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Breaking Chains, Building Disciples Conference

2011-11-04T09:01:00.001-05:00

Watch Online November 8-10. Sounds great!

Amplify’d from www.bju.edu

Do you and your church have lasting, biblical answers for

Addictions to chemical substances — illegal and prescription drugs, alcohol, tobacco?

Compulsive behaviors — sexual sins, pornography, gambling, workaholism?

Self-Destructive behaviors — cutting, burning, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, over-eating)?

Come hear from those who are effectively discipling those struggling with these issues.

Attendees at this conference are eligible for up to .8 standard CEUs. This conference does not meet the requirements for ACSI CEUs. Information about requesting CEUs will be available at the conference.
Read more at www.bju.edu

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Did Luther use tunes from love song?

2011-11-02T12:45:00.001-05:00

Interesting article

Amplify’d from religiousaffections.org

Did Luther use tunes from love songs?
Read more at religiousaffections.org

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A Simple Amish Christmas

2011-11-02T07:52:00.001-05:00

Free Christian romance for Kindle. I don't read Christian romance, but some of you might enjoy this.

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Hurry Less, Worry Less at Christmastime: Having the Holiday Season You Long For

2011-11-02T07:45:00.001-05:00

Free for Kindle

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Cec Murphey's Writer to Writer: Common Problems (Part 1 of 50)

2011-11-01T10:22:00.000-05:00

Cec Murphey's Writer to Writer: Common Problems (Part 1 of 50)

A New Client Endorsement

2011-10-29T08:07:00.002-05:00

This type of feedback makes my day!

“Adam edited a 365-page manuscript for me, and did exactly what I (and the manuscript) needed. He was painstakingly meticulous; thorough and consistent; and “translated” an AP writing style into book style. But he did more than just edit; he posed questions, suggested improvements, and offered comments. And he explained why certain changes were made or suggested. I gained considerable insight into my own words and work simply by reading and reviewing what he did. And the manuscript is now on its way to publication. I couldn’t have asked for a better, more professional editor.”

–Glynn Young, author of the soon-to-be-published Dancing Priest

Attracted to Fire to DiAnn Mills

2011-10-24T06:50:00.003-05:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Attracted to Fire Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. (October 1, 2011)

by DiAnn Mills

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

DiAnn Mills believes her readers should “Expect an Adventure.” She is a fiction writer who combines an adventuresome spirit with unforgettable characters to create action-packed novels. Her books have won many awards through American Christian Fiction Writers, and she is the recipient of the Inspirational Reader’s Choice award for 2005, 2007, and 2010. She was a Christy Award finalist in 2008 and a Christy winner in 2010. DiAnn is a founding board member for American Christian Fiction Writers, a member of Inspirational Writers Alive, Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, and is the Craftsman Mentor for the Christian Writer’s Guild. She speaks to various groups and teaches writing workshops. DiAnn and her husband live in Houston, Texas. Visit her website at: www.diannmills.com or find her on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/diannmills

ABOUT THE BOOK

Special Agent Meghan Connors’ dream of one day protecting the president of the United States is about to come true. Only one assignment stands in her way. After the vice president’s rebellious daughter is threatened, Meghan is assigned to her protective detail on a secluded ranch in West Texas. Unfortunately, working with Special Agent in Charge Ash Zinders may be as tough as controlling her charge. Ash has a reputation for being critical and exacting, and he’s also after the same promotion as Meghan. But when the threats escalate and security on the ranch is breached, it becomes clear this isn’t the work of a single suspect—it’s part of a sophisticated plan that reaches deeper and higher than anyone imagined. And only Ash and Meghan can put the pieces together before it’s too late.

Watch the book trailer:

If you would like to read the first chapter of Attracted to Fire, go HERE.

Free on Kindle: Autism’s Hidden Blessings by Kelly Langston

2011-10-24T06:40:00.001-05:00

Amplify’d from vesselproject.com

Free on Kindle: Autism’s Hidden Blessings by Kelly Langston

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Wonderland Creek by Lynn Austin

2011-10-20T08:16:00.002-05:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Wonderland Creek Bethany House (October 1, 2011) by Lynn Austin

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

For many years, Lynn Austin nurtured a desire to write but frequent travels and the demands of her growing family postponed her career. When her husband's work took Lynn to Bogota, Colombia, for two years, she used the B.A. she'd earned at Southern Connecticut State University to become a teacher. After returning to the U.S., the Austins moved to Anderson, Indiana, Thunder Bay, Ontario, and later to Winnipeg, Manitoba.

It was during the long Canadian winters at home with her children that Lynn made progress on her dream to write, carving out a few hours of writing time each day while her children napped. Lynn credits her early experience of learning to write amid the chaos of family life for her ability to be a productive writer while making sure her family remains her top priority.

Extended family is also very important to Austin, and it was a lively discussion between Lynn, her mother, grandmother (age 98), and daughter concerning the change in women's roles through the generations that sparked the inspiration for her novel Eve's Daughters.

Along with reading, two of Lynn's lifelong passions are history and archaeology. While researching her Biblical fiction series, Chronicles of the Kings, these two interests led her to pursue graduate studies in Biblical Backgrounds and Archaeology through Southwestern Theological Seminary. She and her son traveled to Israel during the summer of 1989 to take part in an archaeological dig at the ancient city of Timnah. This experience contributed to the inspiration for her novel Wings of Refuge.

Lynn resigned from teaching to write full-time in 1992. Since then she has published twelve novels. Five of her historical novels have won Christy Awards in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2008, and 2009 for excellence in Christian Fiction. And two of her inspirational fiction books were chosen by Library Journal for their top picks in 2003, and 2005. One of Lynn's novels has been made into a movie for the Hallmark Channel, starring actress Shirley Jones. Ms Jones received a 2006 Emmy Award nomination for her portrayal of Aunt Batty in the film.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Alice Grace Ripley lives in a dream world, her nose stuck in a book. But happily-ever-after life she's planned on suddenly falls apart when her boyfriend, Gordon, breaks up with her, accusing her of living in a world of fiction instead of the real world. Then to top it off, Alice loses her beloved job at the library because of cutbacks due to the Great Depression.

Fleeing small-town gossip, Alice heads to the mountains of eastern Kentucky to deliver five boxes of donated books to the library in the tiny coal-mining village of Acorn. Dropped off by her relatives, Alice volunteers to stay for two weeks to help the librarian, Leslie McDougal.

But the librarian turns out to be far different than she anticipated--not to mention the four lady librarians who travel to the remote homes to deliver the much-desired books. While Alice is trapped in Acorn against her will, she soon finds that real-life adventure and myster--and especially romance--are far better than her humble dreams could have imagined.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Wonderland Creek, go HERE.

My Thoughts

I'm about halfway through this novel, and I'm really enjoying it.

Board to Death Trailer & Contest

2011-09-30T11:41:00.001-05:00

Don't miss out on this drawing for a free book

Amplify’d from tracyruckman.blogspot.com

Board to Death: A Trio of Mysteries in the Dangerous Games Series releases today. My story, "Sentenced", is included in the book, along with stories by Amy Barkman ("Victim") and Debbie Roome ("Mind Games"). This book was so much fun to write - I hope you'll check it out.

We're having a fun contest to celebrate, and will be giving away 8 digital copies of Board to Death.
Read more at tracyruckman.blogspot.com

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Dangerous Mercy by Kathy Herman

2011-09-28T11:20:00.000-05:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Dangerous Mercy David C. Cook (October 1, 2011) by Kathy Herman

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Suspense novelist Kathy Herman is very much at home in the Christian book industry, having worked five years on staff at the Christian Booksellers Association (CBA) in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and eleven years at Better Books Christian Center in Tyler, Texas, as product buyer/manager for the children’s department, and eventually as director of human resources.

She has conducted numerous educational seminars on children’s books at CBA Conventions in the U.S. and Canada, served a preliminary judge for the Gold Medallion Book Awards of the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association , and worked as an independent product/marketing consultant to the CBA market.

Since her first novel, Tested by Fire, debuted in 2001 as a CBA national bestseller, she's added sixteen more titles to her credit, including four bestsellers: All Things Hidden, The Real Enemy, The Last Word, and The Right Call.

Kathy's husband Paul is her manager and most ardent supporter, and the former manager of the LifeWay Christian Store in Tyler, Texas. They have three grown children, five almost-perfect grandchildren, a cat named Samantha. They enjoy cruising, deep sea fishing, and birdwatching—sometimes incorporating these hobbies into one big adventure.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. —Matthew 5:7

When eighty-five-year-old Adele Woodmore moves to Les Barbes to be near the Broussards—and her namesake, their daughter—she wants nothing more than a comfortable, quiet life. Employing men from Father Vince’s halfway house for the homeless to do odd jobs and landscaping, she delights in the casual conversation she has with them, the fledgling friendships, and the idea that she is helping them get back on their feet.

A series of murders in Les Barbes has cast a pall over the town and, in fact, one of Adele’s handymen becomes a person of interest to the police. But Adele cares for these young men, she knows them, and continues to show them kindness in spite of her friends’ concern. And then one day a murderer walks through Adele’s defenses, sits down at her kitchen table...and they begin to talk...

If you would like to read the first chapter of Dangerous Mercy, go HERE.

My Thoughts

I just received the book in the mail, so there was hardly enough time to read it for this review. However, I have both books in this series now, and I plan to read them both soon. I have enjoyed several of Kathy's suspense novels in the past, and these look like really good ones.

Highland Blessings [Kindle Edition]

2011-09-28T09:38:00.001-05:00

Free Christian Fiction for Kindle

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Pro-Choice to Pro-Life . . . in Seconds!

2011-09-27T09:27:00.001-05:00

Check this out.

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Educational Freebie: Virtual Field Trip from Colonial Williamsburg

2011-09-26T07:24:00.001-05:00

Looks fascinating

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28 Free Books for Kindle

2011-09-25T08:52:00.001-05:00

http://blog.booksontheknob.org/2011/09/28-free-books-from-vook...

A lot of free literary classics. Don't miss this.

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FIFTEEN G. A. Henty Free Audiobooks!

2011-09-23T10:45:00.001-05:00

Don't miss this!

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How to Use Twitter to Promote Your Book

2011-09-22T07:17:00.001-05:00

URL: http://michaelhyatt.com/how-to-use-twitter-to-promote-y...

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Gods and Kings: Chronicles of the Kings #1 [Kindle Edition]

2011-09-21T10:47:00.001-05:00

Free Christian Fiction for the Kindle. This is also an excellent series. Don't miss out.

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The Keeper: A Short Story Prequel to Forbidden

2011-09-19T06:56:00.001-05:00

Free Christian Fiction Kindle Download

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Huge library of free downloadable classical music

2011-09-16T18:37:00.001-05:00

Check it out.

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Seniors Trying to Figure Out Webcam Become Internet Hit

2011-09-16T13:25:00.001-05:00

Now we know the rest of the story,.

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Free Download: Ludwig van Beethoven's "7th Symphony in A minor, op.92"

2011-09-15T14:00:00.001-05:00

Beethoven is one of the best.

Amplify’d from alexanderstreet.com

Free Download: Ludwig van Beethoven's "7th Symphony in A minor, op.92"
Read more at alexanderstreet.com

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Webcam 101 for Seniors....

2011-09-15T13:13:00.001-05:00

Hilarious!

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5 Lessons for Parenting in the Digital Age

2011-09-15T07:50:00.001-05:00

Scary stats

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The Cancer-Fighting Spice So Potent - It Even Beat Brain Tumors in Mice...

2011-09-14T08:25:00.001-05:00

Interesting

Amplify’d from articles.mercola.com

Curcumin

Curcumin – a derivative of turmeric, and the pigment that gives the curry spice turmeric its yellow-orange color -- is a natural compound that has been extensively researched, and has been found to have numerous health applications. As a result, turmeric is becoming increasingly popular as a supplement. Each 100 grams of turmeric contains an estimated three to five grams of curcumin.
Read more at articles.mercola.com

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Food Matters Official Trailer

2011-09-14T07:41:00.002-05:00

Kim and I recently saw this eye-opening documentary on Netflix. Amazing information here. Not sure if I'll eat fast food anytime soon again. Check it out. http://www.foodmatters.tv/

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The NIV Gospel of John: With Devotional Notes

2011-09-14T07:11:00.001-05:00

Free Kindle Download. Not my favorite Bible version but still a great download.

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Astronomers Discover 16 Super-Earths

2011-09-12T17:57:00.001-05:00

Fascinating

Amplify’d from mashable.com

European astronomers announced Monday they’ve discovered 50 new planets, including 16 so-called Super-Earths, one of which is potentially habitable.
Read more at mashable.com

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7 Ways to Improve Your Event Planning With Facebook

2011-09-12T11:15:00.001-05:00

URL: http://mashable.com/2011/09/12/facebook-event-planning/...

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7 Best Practices for Improving Your Website’s Usability

2011-09-12T11:06:00.001-05:00

URL: http://mashable.com/2011/09/12/website-usability-tips/?...

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Improve Your Business Communication (Collection)

2011-09-12T10:55:00.001-05:00

Free Kindle Download

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Saving for Retirement without Living Like a Pauper or Winning the Lottery

2011-09-12T10:51:00.001-05:00

Free Kindle Download

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Prayer Begins with Relationship (Breakthrough Prayer: Studies for Small Groups)

2011-09-12T10:46:00.001-05:00

Free Kindle Download

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28 Free Books from Vook (Kindle)

2011-09-11T14:30:00.001-05:00

http://blog.booksontheknob.org/2011/09/28-free-books-from-vook...

Check these out!

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Sons of Thunder (Brothers in Arms Collection (Summerside Press))

2011-09-10T08:08:00.001-05:00

Free Christian Fiction Kindle Download

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Love Finds You in Homestead, Iowa

2011-09-10T08:04:00.001-05:00

Free Kindle Download. I'm not into Christian romance, but this might be perfect for some readers.

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Hiring a Freelance Editor

2011-09-09T08:06:00.002-05:00

Why you need an editor for your book! I edit books too: http://blumereditorial.com.

Amplify’d from www.rachellegardner.com

Guest Blogger: Michelle DeRusha
Read more at www.rachellegardner.com

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The Surprising 32-Year Scandal That's Kept This Toxic Substance in Your Head

2011-09-09T06:36:00.001-05:00

Very interesting

Amplify’d from articles.mercola.com

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), once the world's "gold standard" for food, drug, and device regulation, has evolved from industry regulator to industry captive.

Political scientists are not surprised. The evolution from tough regulator to passive regulator to industry captive is a pattern in Washington. Unless an agency engages in a major system of reinvigoration, the spiral continues. But the FDA seems comfortable being the hand-maiden for industry; it has brought big bucks to the agency and lucrative jobs after time at the FDA.
Read more at articles.mercola.com

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How to Significantly Increase Your Income Without Working Harder (Part 2)

2011-09-08T08:06:00.001-05:00

Great article.

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A Time to Heal (Quilts of Lancaster County)

2011-09-07T07:51:00.001-05:00

Free Kindle Download

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Homeschool Freebie of the Day

2011-09-06T12:36:00.001-05:00

Check it out!

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Sept 6: Autumn Studies & Autumn Nature Reader!
Read more at www.homeschoolfreebie.wholesomechildhood.com

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Twitter for Good: Change the World One Tweet at a Time [Kindle Edition]

2011-09-06T09:29:00.001-05:00

Free Kindle Download

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Circle of Friends Cookbook - 25 Burger Recipes

2011-09-06T09:28:00.001-05:00

Free Kindle Download

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Memoir to Be Published in 2012

2011-09-05T13:50:00.001-05:00

Yeah! The memoir for which I assisted Carol Trahan (http://www.caroltrahanministries.org/) in the writing and editing has been accepted for publication and will be on shelves next spring. The memoir is titled The Triumph of His Grace. Soli Deo gloria!

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Against the Gates of Hell [Kindle Edition]

2011-09-05T08:10:00.001-05:00

Free Christian Fiction Kindle Download

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Gluten-Free Gourmet: The How-to Guide [Kindle Edition]

2011-09-05T07:58:00.001-05:00

Free Kindle Book

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The Chicken Which Should be Banned

2011-09-05T07:16:00.001-05:00

Amplify’d from articles.mercola.com

Do you put dimethylpolysiloxane, an anti-foaming agent made of silicone, in your chicken dishes?

How about tertiary butylhydroquinone (TBHQ), a chemical preservative so deadly that just five grams can kill you?

These are just two of the ingredients in a McDonalds Chicken McNugget. Only 50 percent of a McNugget is actually chicken. The other 50 percent includes corn derivatives, sugars, leavening agents and completely synthetic ingredients.
Read more at articles.mercola.com

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The Best Canker Sore Remedies Can’t Compete With Tea Tree Oil!

2011-09-03T11:58:00.001-05:00

Good information

Amplify’d from www.tea-tree-oil-wellness.com

I’ve tried all the canker sore remedies and nothing comes close to doing the job as well as tea tree oil.
After using my tea tree oil treatment, within a couple of days your canker sores will be gone!
With other remedies you won’t come close to getting the same results. Either they won’t work, or simply won’t reduce the healing time by any significant amount
Read more at www.tea-tree-oil-wellness.com

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Quote for Friday

2011-09-02T08:13:00.001-05:00

"How pleasant to float along the stream of providence! There is no more blessed way of living than a life of dependence upon a covenant-keeping God. We have no care, for He careth for us; we have no troubles, because we cast our burdens upon the Lord." —Charles Spurgeon, Morning and Evening, Sept. 1, Evening

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The Applause of Heaven (The Bestseller Collection) [Kindle Edition]

2011-09-01T06:30:00.001-05:00

Free Kindle Download

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Social Media Marketing with Established Technologies (Collection) [Kindle Edition]

2011-08-29T08:41:00.001-05:00

Free Kindle Download for a Limited Time

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Thunder in the Morning Calm by Don Brown

2011-08-29T07:21:00.000-05:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Thunder in the Morning Calm Zondervan (August 2, 2011) by Don Brown

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

DON BROWN, a former U.S. Navy JAG Officer, is the author of Zondervan’s riveting NAVY JUSTICE SERIES, a dynamic storyline chronicling the life and adventures of JAG officer ZACK BREWER. After TREASON, his first novel in the NAVY JUSTICE SERIES, was published to rave reviews in 2005, drawing comparisons to the writing style of John Grisham, Don Brown was named as co-chairman of national I LOVE TO WRITE DAY, an event recognized by the governors of nine states to promote writing throughout the nation, and especially among the nation’s schools.

Paying no homage to political correctness, Don's writing style is described as “gripping,” casting an entertaining and educational spin on a wide-range of current issues, from radical Islamic infiltration of the military, to the explosive issue of gays in the military, to the modern day issues of presidential politics in the early 21st Century.

Don graduated from the University of North Carolina in 1982, and after finishing law school, continued his post-graduate studies through the Naval War College, earning the Navy’s nonresident certificate in International Law.

During his five years on active duty in the Navy, Don served in the Pentagon, was published in the Naval Law Review, and was also a recipient of the Navy Achievement Medal, the Navy Commendation Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Lieutenant Commander 'Gunner' McCormick is assigned as an intelligence officer to Carrier Strike Force 10, being deployed to the Yellow Sea at the invitation of South Korea for joint exercises with the US Navy. During his pre-deployment briefing, he discovers a TOP-SECRET MEMO revealing rumors that the North Koreans may still be holding a handful of elderly Americans from the Korean War in secret prison camps.

As it happens, Gunner's grandfather, who was a young marine officer in the Korean War, disappeared at Chosin Reservoir over 60 years ago and is still listed as MIA in North Korea. Sworn to silence about what he has read, the top-secret memo eats at him. Gunner decides to spend all his inheritance and break every military regulation in the book to finance his own three-man commando squad on a suicide mission north of the DMZ to search for clues about the fate of his grandfather.

Risking his career, his fortune, and his life, Gunner will get his answers, or he will die trying.

Don Brown is building a loyal fan base by writing what he knows best: thrillers with heart. A former Navy JAG officer and action officer in the Pentagon, Brown pens action-packed plots and finely-drawn characters that are credible and compelling. Thunder in the Morning Calm is a novel of bravery, duty, and family love that will keep readers of all ages reading straight through to the last page.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Thunder in the Morning Calm , go HERE

How to Convert PDF files into Kindle Ebooks

2011-08-26T08:34:00.002-05:00

Great info if you've wondered as I have

Amplify’d from publishingcentral.com

The Kindle can display files in four different formats:

.TXT files (HTML files can be viewed if you change the extension to .txt as well)

.AZW files – Amazon’s own exclusive ebook format for the Kindle

.MOBI files – content formatted for the MobiPocket Reader

.PRC – These are the exact same format as .MOBI but were designed to be compatible with Palm PDAs

Odds are, though, that the bulk of the documents you have on your computer that you might wish to read on your Kindle are in PDF format. If you’re like me, you’ve got a lifetime of reading stored up in PDF files that you’ve been meaning to get around to “some day soon.” Adding them to your Kindle library would be a good way to make them more accessible, and make it far more likely that you’ll get around to reading all those files at one point or another.
Read more at publishingcentral.com

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Obituary: Larry Blumer

2011-08-20T15:14:00.004-05:00

Here's the write-up in our local paper.

Amplify’d from www.ironmountaindailynews.com

Larry Blumer

August 20, 2011

The Daily News

KINGSFORD - Larry D. Blumer, 71, of Kingsford, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2011, at his home.

He was born on June 7, 1940, in St. Clair, Mich., son of the late Fred C. and Mildred A. (Hill) Blumer. He received his bachelor of arts degree from Taylor University and his bachelor of science degree in mechanical engineering from Purdue University.

Larry married Rhoda Jean Parker in Detroit on March 14, 1964, and spent more than 47 wonderful years together. He was hired by General Motors and retired in 2000 after 37 years as a design and management engineer in Flint, Mich.
Read more at www.ironmountaindailynews.com

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Dad's Obituary

2011-08-20T15:07:00.000-05:00

http://hosting-24687.tributes.com/show/Larry-D.-Blumer-92153558

Death Announcement for Dad

2011-08-19T10:34:00.003-05:00

Amplify’d from www.ironmountaindailynews.com

Larry Blumer

August 18, 2011

The Daily News

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KINGSFORD - Larry D. Blumer, 71, of Kingsford, died Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2011, at his home.
Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by the Erickson-Rochon & Nash Funeral Home.

© Copyright 2011 The Daily News. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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Thomas Nelson - $10,000 Contest Giveaway

2011-08-19T07:55:00.000-05:00

From Thomas Nelson:

One of the highlights of our days in the Fiction department at Thomas Nelson? Receiving reader letters—either directly addressed to us or passed along from our talented authors. It’s critical to be reminded that at the end of our long days acquiring, editing, designing, selling, marketing, and publicizing books, those stories are reaching readers, striking nerves, changing lives. We want readers’ feedback. How stories have given you hope. Which authors’ series you can’t help from sharing with everyone you meet. We want to know what makes you stay up late in the night to finish a story, and conversely what turns you away.

We’re conducting a series of surveys—seeking answers from readers who love Christian fiction. Up for grabs is a free ebook for every respondent who completes the survery, as well as a $10,000 prize for one entrant. The responses we gather will help shape the future of the books we publish for years to come. As well as the data we’re collecting here, we’ll also seek more in-depth feedback from a panel we’ll develop over the next year. More details to come. The note below from one of authors gives a specific picture of how reader feedback shapes her work. In short, your opinion matters! We thank you for your time and appreciate your responding.

--Thomas Nelson Fiction

Dear Friends--

Your opinion matters. It really does. I love hearing from readers about what worked for them in a story and about what doesn’t work. Reader feedback changed the balance between romance and suspense in my novels. After the Rock Harbor trilogy, I wanted to write more suspense in my novels because that’s what I personally like. But readers really wanted more relationship and romance in the books so I moved back that direction to about the same mix of 50/50 that the Rock Harbor novels contained. I write for you even more than for myself.

I had no intention of setting a whole series of books at Bluebird, Texas. It was going to be only one book, but readers sent me requests in droves for more books. The fourth book in the Lonestar series, Lonestar Angel, will be out in October. The Rock Harbor novels were going to be complete at three. There are now five and I’m thinking about another one! All due to reader demand.

I’ve often asked for reader input on names and locations too. When I was struggling for a name for my hero in The Lightkeeper’s Ball, I turned to my readers. Harrison really fit my character, and my readers told me. Love that! When I was trying to decide on a location for the new Hope Beach series I’ve started, I asked readers. Their overwhelming response was for a series set in the Outer Banks so guess what I’m writing?!

That’s why we’re coming to you for answers. We want to give you what you really want! Don’t be afraid to let us know what you really think. We value your honesty and the time it will take to share with us. Looking forward to hearing what you have to say!

Your friend,

Colleen Coble

C.S. Lewis and Death

2011-08-18T09:07:00.001-05:00

"But for them it was only the beginning of the real story. All their life in this world and all their adventures in Narnia had only been the cover and the title page: now at last they were beginning Chapter One of the Great Story which no one on earth has read: which goes on forever: in which every chapter is better than the one before." —C.S. Lewis (Thanks to Mike Glanzer for this fabulous quotation.)

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Dad in Glory

2011-08-17T20:45:00.001-05:00

Dad just passed into the arms of his Savior while Mom and I were trying to change him. Thanks all for praying for him during his life. Please pray for the family during this time. Thank you.

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Dad rapidly declining

2011-08-17T15:16:00.001-05:00

By all signs, Dad is rapidly declining now. His lungs are filled with fluid, and the bubbling sound of his exhalations reminds me a deep-sea diver. The nurse has doubled his medication, and he is snoring deeply. He has shown signs of decline before, so there is no certain timeline of his home going. I'm with Mom now and trying to do what I can to help. Thanks for your prayers.

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Grammatically Correct

2011-08-15T13:00:00.001-05:00

Free for the Kindle for a limited time

Amplify’d from www.amazon.com

Grammatically Correct [Kindle Edition]

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Beagles - What's not to like?

2011-08-12T07:21:00.002-05:00

The girls might be getting a beagle, so those dogs are on our minds at the moment.

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Dogs 101:
Beagle

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Gov. Rick Perry's Prayer

2011-08-10T15:44:00.002-05:00

Buy One, Get One FREE Featuring Kregel Fiction

2011-08-10T08:46:00.001-05:00

Buy a copy of Fatal Illusions and get another book free.

Amplify’d from www.kregel.com

It's the Summer of BOGO

Buy One, Get One FREE Featuring Kregel Fiction

1. Purchase any Kregel Publications fiction at your local Christian bookstore

2. Submit your receipt showing proof of purchase.
Print and complete this form: www.kregel.com/Media/DocumentLibrary/AugBOGOForm.pdf

Return the form and your receipt showing proof of purchase to Kregel Publications

Kregel Fiction BOGO

C/O Marketing Dept

733 Wealthy Street SE

Grand Rapids, MI
49503

3. Choose your free book! Click the covers for more information on the books!
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Why Do You Need an Editor?

2011-08-09T13:34:00.001-05:00

Amplify’d from www.publetariat.com

Why Do You Need an Editor?

Nabokov said, "My pencils outlast my erasers."

Writing well means trial and error and learning to master the craft. And that’s an on-going journey. I keep learning new things every year. You’re never “there.” You’re never perfect. And sometimes I think the more I learn, the less I know.

I once read of a famous writer of the past who would simply scribble out his manuscripts on whatever paper surface he might have at hand, give the pile to his editor at the publishing house, and that person made everything come together for lasting, classic fiction works.
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The Hardest Thing by Penelope Wilcock

2011-08-08T07:06:00.001-05:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing The Hardest Thing Crossway Books (July 31, 2011) by Penelope Wilcock

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

PENELOPE WILCOCK is a full-time author living in Hastings, Sussex, on the southeast coast of England. Her blog, Kindred of the Quiet Way, is about a simple and spiritual Christian lifestyle. Her other books in The Hawk and the Dove series are The Hawk and the Dove, The Wounds of God, and The Long Fall.

ABOUT THE BOOK

This latest in Wilcock’s The Hawk and the Dove series takes readers into the world of a fourteenth-century monastery struggling to forgive an old enemy seeking refuge.

The first of three sequels to the celebrated The Hawk and the Dove trilogy takes place one year after the end of the third book, in the early fourteenth century. A peaceful monastery is enjoying its new abbot, who is taking the place of Father Peregrine, when an old enemy arrives seeking refuge. Reluctantly taking in Prior William, the upended community must address old fears and bitterness while warily seeking reconciliation. But can they really trust Prior William?

In her fourth book in the series, Penelope Wilcock wrestles with the difficulties of forgiveness and the cautions of building trust. Taking the form of journal entries, her story will delight the imaginations of readers captivated by a time and place far distant from our current world. Her timeless themes, however, will challenge our prejudices today as we, along with her characters, are forced to ask ourselves, “What is the hardest thing to do?”

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Hardest Thing, go HERE.

My Review

This novel is on my TBR pile, and I look forward to reading it. It looks interesting.

Dad Having Seizures

2011-08-05T11:16:00.002-05:00

Nurse says these indicate more brain swelling and could result in comma. Please be in prayer for my parents at this time. Thanks. http://amplify.com/u/a1aar9

Little treasures hiding behind the foliage of our deck

2011-07-29T13:13:00.000-05:00

For several days, Mama Robin kept going back and forth with worms, and we stayed away. Early one morning (still dark), Kim and I woke to the loud, angry chirping of birds. Kim rushed out and almost stepped on one of the baby robins. Apparently Mama Robin had decided it was time for her babies to leave the nest. A cat slunk nearby, stalking the babies, and the adult birds were putting up a fuss to keep it away. Kim scared the cat away, and all was at peace. Later that morning the nest was empty.

ScanDrop for Evernote

2011-07-29T11:11:00.001-05:00

URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eoLEBn6HudE

Your office can go paperless. Here's how. I had an old HP printer with a scanner. I just downloaded ScanDrop, and now anything I scan can go straight to my Evernote account, stay organized, and delegate any paper to the trash. Sweet!

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