Inspired by Life ... and Fiction

Novelists bound by the pen, sisterhood, & more

Changed in These Covid Days (and a gift for you!)

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This week, I'm editing my next book and also hosting my sisters at my home! It's with much gratitude that I welcome Shelli Littleton to the blog today, who is kindly stepping in and guest-posting for me. Shelli's a gifted writer and a wonderful friend. Say hi to her in the comments, connect with her on Instagram & Facebook, and be sure to check out the giveaway that we're offering! … [Read more...]

Hanging Out with Book People

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The pandemic has really cut down on the amount of writing-related travel I've ben able to do over the last year and a half. So when the opportunity arose to speak on a panel at the Lubbock Book Festival, I was excited to volunteer. There is just something that makes my heart happy about hanging out with book people. And since the festival took place in the public library, we were surrounded by … [Read more...]

Seeing Clearly

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I have bad eyesight. Like, really, really bad. I’ve been wearing glasses since 3rd grade, contacts since 7th. I use daily prescription drops for severe dry eye as well as for glaucoma. My glasses help me not run into things but not much more. And even my vision in my contacts can be iffy. A few years ago, my longtime ophthalmologist and I worked hard to get my distance vision as perfect as … [Read more...]

Shiloh from Lori Benton—a great read!

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Today is the day for Lori Benton's highly-anticipated release of Shiloh! And as if the story on the pages isn't lovely enough, just look at this cover... This cover just draws me in. Does it you? Yes, I love "scene" covers on novels that depict the setting, but I also love the simplicity and beauty of this one. It's eye-catching. Tyndale was kind enough to give me a sneak peek of Shiloh, … [Read more...]

Lost!

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The fall weather was beautiful last week and perfect for riding bikes. I took a break from writing one afternoon, and Ken and I rode off on one of our favorite trails. It winds through the woods north of town, away from people and traffic. Ten miles from home, we heard a woman screaming for help. An older couple running to her aid, flagged us down. “Can you help?” they asked. “This mother has … [Read more...]

Book Release (And a Giveaway!)

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The Heart of a Cowboy, the second book in my Colorado Cowboys series, is releasing on Tuesday! And there's still time to take advantage of the fabulous pre-order special through Baker Book House (40% off and free shipping!): https://bakerbookhouse.com/products/277334 If you enjoy traveling-west-by-covered-wagons stories, then this book will be right up your alley! The McQuaid family, led by … [Read more...]

Authors on Autumn

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Welcome, autumn! Red maples, crunchy leaves underfoot, crisp air and crisp apples, and a return to routine. To usher in the new season, I thought I’d share what 10 classic authors (including some of my favorites) have written about autumn. Some quotes you probably know, while a few may be less familiar. If I’ve missed your favorite, please add it in the comments below. “Life starts all over … [Read more...]

Eight National Parks

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Today Ken and I are beginning Week 5 of a six-week loop through ten states, eight national parks, and many state parks. We have seen so many beautiful sights and have been reminded daily, hourly, that God's glorious creation is very, very good! Do you see both of the moose in the photo above? I captured that amazing photo (if I do say so myself) while hiding behind a BIG tree. We had just come … [Read more...]

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