Inspired by Life ... and Fiction

Novelists bound by the pen, sisterhood, & more

When Writers Retreat

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I love to go on writing retreats . . . but not because of the actual writing. It's getting together with other writers that truly feeds my soul. Last year, I recruited a group of Texas authors and one adorable Okie to join me on a weekend retreat. We had so much fun, we decided to do it again. So for our second annual Winter Writers' Retreat, we rented a house in historic Jefferson, TX. And not … [Read more...]

Recently Read and Up Next

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I love hearing what others have been reading or are looking forward to reading, so I thought I’d share of few of my own with you today. Since the beginning of this year I’ve already read several books. My genres have varied from Christian fiction to general market fiction to non-fiction. Some I wouldn’t give a blanket recommendation, others I wholeheartedly embrace. Here are three I’ve … [Read more...]

A Step Forward…and Backward

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I am a history nerd. I admit it. I happily own it. I love antebellum homes, old 18th century log cabins, European castles, walking through cemeteries, and generally stepping back in time. I love diving into history and resurfacing again with unique and wonderful treasures from the past that I then weave into "true" fiction. My sixteenth historical novel, With This Pledge, released last … [Read more...]

Arthur’s Story

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I was an eager, conscientious student in elementary school. I wanted straight A’s. I wanted the approval of my teachers. My 6th grade teacher, Mr. S, was one of my favorites. Energetic and creative, stern yet fair, he was generous with his encouragement and affirmation. If a student did something noteworthy, Mr. S would honor them by writing their name on the chalkboard in huge letters, where it … [Read more...]

Beat-the-Cold-Winter Giveaway!

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For those of us living in the Midwest, this week has sure been a crazy weather week, hasn’t it? I live in central Michigan, and we northerners are quite accustomed to snow and cold in the winter.  In fact, I’ve come to expect cold and gray for about half of the year, from November to April. Nevertheless, the past week has been particularly brutal even for those of us who are used to … [Read more...]

Currently…and a giveaway

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There's a little blog “game” called CURRENTLY that’s been going around the Internet, and I’ve really enjoyed hearing some of my favorite bloggers share their answers. It’s a great way to get to know where someone is “at” in any given moment of life! Just for fun, here are my answers: Loving: The New Year! I just love the promise of a fresh slate. Since I haven’t been on a tight … [Read more...]

Short-Straw Bride for $1.99

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Just a quick note to let you know that the first book in my Archer Brothers series is on sale until the end of the month for only $1.99. Four brothers. Four straws. One bride. Now's the time to see why Short-Straw Bride has garnered over 4,500 five-star ratings on Goodreads! Fall in love with the Archer brothers for only $1.99 for the e-book at all online retailers. Amazon | Barnes & Noble | … [Read more...]

When Biggest Isn’t Best

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Have you heard of Katelyn Ohashi? I hadn't until very recently. Because some friends were raving about her phenomenal gymnastics floor routine, I traveled to YouTube to see it for myself. I was so struck by her, that I then watched a video that offers a glimpse into her very inspirational story. Here's that video: When Katelyn was young, she was one of the best elite gymnasts in the world. … [Read more...]

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