I'm a big James Bond fan. There, I've admitted it. But I was extremely disappointed in this latest movie. It's actually, Bond's beginning. There was no plot. Virtually no gadgets, and lacked that certain wit for which 007 was famous for.
After the movie was over, I'm glad I rented the DVD, and didn't actually pay a fortune to see it, I thought about the movie in light of writing. Books must have a plot. A solid beginning, middle and end. This movie lacked this essential elements, but because it was "James Bond" the writers were able to get away with it. UNFAIR!!!
Monday, April 02, 2007
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Remember Me
We meet Josef von Woerner in Pieces of Silver, where we learn of his love for Germany, the fatherland. In Remember Me, Josef wakes up injured and not knowing who he is. He is being cared for by a stranger named, Hank and falls in love with a beautiful, very patriotic nurse, Lissa Parker.
As their love grows, Josef enters the first World War, fighting on the side of United States and the allies. The stress and trauma of being captured brings back his memory. His newly accepted faith spurs him to do the right thing, even if coming forward about all the things he had done to try and prevent America from entering into the war, causes him the love of Lissa.
Remember Me is a story of God's redemption, the power of love, and one man's undying desire to follow God's will. I found this book very hard to put down, wondering what would happen to Josef next. The love story is pure and powerful. I am eagerly awaiting Maureen Lang's next book.
As their love grows, Josef enters the first World War, fighting on the side of United States and the allies. The stress and trauma of being captured brings back his memory. His newly accepted faith spurs him to do the right thing, even if coming forward about all the things he had done to try and prevent America from entering into the war, causes him the love of Lissa.
Remember Me is a story of God's redemption, the power of love, and one man's undying desire to follow God's will. I found this book very hard to put down, wondering what would happen to Josef next. The love story is pure and powerful. I am eagerly awaiting Maureen Lang's next book.
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Genesis Contest
It's been a while since I've posted. I've been busy getting two of my work in progress manuscripts ready for the ACFW Genesis contest. I've sent them in! Butterflies are doing the Salsa in my stomach, my heart is pounding, unnaturally (I'm probably going to have a heart attack), but they're sent in. No going back now.
I still haven't heard back on Buried Beneath the Midnight Blue, other than finaling. I should be hearing back within the next couple of weeks. Pray for me.
Writing is like breathing to me. I can't imagine doing anything else. God has told me I will become a published author, with people eagerly awaiting my next novel. When? I'm impatient. Must wait on His timing, though. He'll make it happen at the perfect time. While I'm waiting, I'll keep writing.
I still haven't heard back on Buried Beneath the Midnight Blue, other than finaling. I should be hearing back within the next couple of weeks. Pray for me.
Writing is like breathing to me. I can't imagine doing anything else. God has told me I will become a published author, with people eagerly awaiting my next novel. When? I'm impatient. Must wait on His timing, though. He'll make it happen at the perfect time. While I'm waiting, I'll keep writing.
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Book Reviews
Regularly, I post a book review on my blog. Recently, I've begun reviewing books from my school library for a column in the school newsletter. I read and review the usual elementary grade reading level books, and occasionally stumble across a true gem of a read.
Published in 2003, The River Between Us by Richard Peck is one of the most riveting stories about the Civil War I've read outside of Gone With the Wind.
As the story opens, we are traveling in a Model T-Ford in the year 1916 with a young boy, his brothers, and his father to visit relatives. When they reach the home of Aunt Tilly, Peck takes the reader to the Pruitt farm in Illinois where a young Tilly and her family take in two mysterious southern ladies. When Tilly's brother goes to war, she and Delphine, one of their guests head to Cairo, Illinois to bring her brother home. What transpires there and back in the year 1916, kept me riveted to the pages. Peck sheds a whole new light on bigotry and racism and pride in one's family tree.
This may have been a "Young Adult" novel, but The River Between Us can hold it's own with any book I've read intended for more "mature" readers.
Published in 2003, The River Between Us by Richard Peck is one of the most riveting stories about the Civil War I've read outside of Gone With the Wind.
As the story opens, we are traveling in a Model T-Ford in the year 1916 with a young boy, his brothers, and his father to visit relatives. When they reach the home of Aunt Tilly, Peck takes the reader to the Pruitt farm in Illinois where a young Tilly and her family take in two mysterious southern ladies. When Tilly's brother goes to war, she and Delphine, one of their guests head to Cairo, Illinois to bring her brother home. What transpires there and back in the year 1916, kept me riveted to the pages. Peck sheds a whole new light on bigotry and racism and pride in one's family tree.
This may have been a "Young Adult" novel, but The River Between Us can hold it's own with any book I've read intended for more "mature" readers.
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Something to Write About
Not a whole lot going on that's fun to write about. A lot that isn't. One of these days I'll let ya'll know how much this ol' gal has had to endure since Thanksgiving. Good thing is, my novel, Buried Beneath the Midnight Blue, has finaled in the Great Expectations contest. I don't know when the final judging will take place, and I don't want to. Then, I'd just be watching the calendar and fretting. That call came when I needed it the most. Now...if I could just get THE CALL. If you know what I mean.
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
The Trouble with Tulip
Mindy Starns Clark has delivered a funny, witty story with an unforgettable character.
Josephine Tulip struggles to keep her grandmother's hint column alive, dealing with issues of the modern woman. When a neighbor winds up dead, confusing the police with the abundance of shower caps, tomato juice and cucumber paste, Jo is called in to advise. Reeling from the shock of being stood up at the altar, Jo dives in to solve the case with her bestfriend, Danny.
Eternal life, empty promises, the search for love, a dog who loves throw pillows...all these and more make up this delightful and suspenseful read. I recommend Mindy's books to anyone who enjoys a quirky heroine and a sweet love story.
Josephine Tulip struggles to keep her grandmother's hint column alive, dealing with issues of the modern woman. When a neighbor winds up dead, confusing the police with the abundance of shower caps, tomato juice and cucumber paste, Jo is called in to advise. Reeling from the shock of being stood up at the altar, Jo dives in to solve the case with her bestfriend, Danny.
Eternal life, empty promises, the search for love, a dog who loves throw pillows...all these and more make up this delightful and suspenseful read. I recommend Mindy's books to anyone who enjoys a quirky heroine and a sweet love story.
Monday, February 12, 2007
Weekends
This is fitting, since it rained this past weekend.
Weekends:
The two days of the week with the greatest chance for rain.
Weekends:
The two days of the week with the greatest chance for rain.
Friday, February 09, 2007
Excitement in the Neighborhood
Had a bit of excitement last night. At least for us. For the last two nights, someone has been sneaking into the backyard of the vacant house next door. My husband decided to check things out and spotted a sleeping bag and other proof that someone was sleeping in there. Being the conscientious neighbors that we are, we called the police.
They sent a young rookie with shaking hands and a trembling voice. He snuck around to the back of the house, peeked over the block fence and said, "Sir, would you mind watching the front? Yell, if someone comes running out." Bless his heart, he sounded terrified. Anyway, the young officer was waiting for backup before entering the house. Wise, choice, don't you think?
A tough, burly officer joined the young man and, together, they searched the dark house. No one was home, but they found evidence that several people were staying there, at least part time.
It was quite fun. My husband watched the front of the house, and me in my bathroom, watched our backyard in case someone scaled the fence. I am glad no one happened to be there, but we're to call if they make an appearance.
I think I could probably use this in a book.
They sent a young rookie with shaking hands and a trembling voice. He snuck around to the back of the house, peeked over the block fence and said, "Sir, would you mind watching the front? Yell, if someone comes running out." Bless his heart, he sounded terrified. Anyway, the young officer was waiting for backup before entering the house. Wise, choice, don't you think?
A tough, burly officer joined the young man and, together, they searched the dark house. No one was home, but they found evidence that several people were staying there, at least part time.
It was quite fun. My husband watched the front of the house, and me in my bathroom, watched our backyard in case someone scaled the fence. I am glad no one happened to be there, but we're to call if they make an appearance.
I think I could probably use this in a book.
Thursday, February 08, 2007
Pressure
Under pressure, eggs crack and coal makes diamonds. The same can be said for people.
Which are you?
Which are you?
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
Remember to Forget
When Maggie went to the liquor store for her boyfriend Kevin, she had no idea how stepping out her door that morning would set her free. When her car is carjacked, and she's left stranded, she heads West with nothing but twenty dollars in her pocket. Fear drives her to lies and deception. Guilt burdens her as she settles in Clayburn, Kansas and finds a place to call home, wanting to accept the love that is offered her.
In, Remember to Forget, Deborah Raney takes the reader into small-town life, God's forgiveness and acceptance, and a simple love story as Maggie embraces the love and life-style God designed for her. A pleasurable read for those who enjoy a warm-hearted love story. Beautifully written.
In, Remember to Forget, Deborah Raney takes the reader into small-town life, God's forgiveness and acceptance, and a simple love story as Maggie embraces the love and life-style God designed for her. A pleasurable read for those who enjoy a warm-hearted love story. Beautifully written.
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Front Porch Princess
A small town where everyone knows everything about everyone, and one woman has dreamed her entire life about escaping Pritchett. Having won a beauty title in her teens, Elise dreamed of becoming a model or an actress. Life had different plans in the form of a handsome farmer. Elise settles reluctantly into small-town life, wanting more for her daughter. When her daughter enters Elise into a Mrs. Proverbs 31 pageant, Pritchett, Wisconsin pulls out the red carpet, complete with a parade and an ice cream social.
As Elise prepares for the pageant, she discovers much more about love, beauty, friendship, and God, learning to be content in her circumstances.
Front Porch Princess is a delightful read. Kathryn Springer has the reader running a gauntlet of emotions. Don't read this book unless you're prepared to not be able to put it down! Absolutely wonderful.
As Elise prepares for the pageant, she discovers much more about love, beauty, friendship, and God, learning to be content in her circumstances.
Front Porch Princess is a delightful read. Kathryn Springer has the reader running a gauntlet of emotions. Don't read this book unless you're prepared to not be able to put it down! Absolutely wonderful.
Monday, February 05, 2007
Stress
Doctors say extreme stress is bad for your health. Great, just one more thing to worry about.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
One of those days!
"Give us this day, our daily bread..."
Stale and bagged under the canned goods!
Yep, it's one of those kind of days, today.
Stale and bagged under the canned goods!
Yep, it's one of those kind of days, today.
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Stress Rule #38
The boss will never walk in on you, unless you load up a computer game.
Isn't this true? I have a great little flip calendar that gives a stress buster of the day. Occasionally, I'll post one, just to give someone a laugh.
Isn't this true? I have a great little flip calendar that gives a stress buster of the day. Occasionally, I'll post one, just to give someone a laugh.
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Dark Hour
The author, Ginger Arrett, takes the reader deep into biblical history. Into the bloody reign of Queen Athaliah and King Jehoram. Through Dark Hour, Arrett shows us how one woman saved the lineage of Jesus Christ, enabling the line of David to continue. We see a glimpse of evil, so dark and startling, it makes the lifting of the reader into light that much more powerful.
Dealing with my own personal problems at this moment, I couldn't have picked a better time to read this book. To see how one young and scared woman could save a nation, shows how even in despair, with God, we have the strength to pull ourself up. Bravo, Ginger!
Dealing with my own personal problems at this moment, I couldn't have picked a better time to read this book. To see how one young and scared woman could save a nation, shows how even in despair, with God, we have the strength to pull ourself up. Bravo, Ginger!
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Writing Progress
Sorry, it's taken me so long to post anything. I've read a couple of books I need to review, but mostly I've been writing.
Well, I did it. I got the rights from my publisher returned on A Dream Fulfilled. It's a wonderful story, and once I've done some revisions, I believe it will sell well in the Christian market. Those who've read it, want a sequel. If I can make a go of it, I might just write that sequel.
I've completed Buried Beneath the Midnight Blue. I love this story. It's my first attempt at first person and it's a cozy mystery. Once my critique group finishes, I'll be submitting it to agents and editors.
Still working on getting Shades of Crimson, my romantic suspense, published. It's currently with an agent and an editor. God willing, one of them will love it. Wouldn't it be wonderful if I get a three book contract out of it?
I'm also revising a couple of complete manuscripts to try and pitch them to category. Yep, I'm one busy little writer. What have ya'll been working on?
Well, I did it. I got the rights from my publisher returned on A Dream Fulfilled. It's a wonderful story, and once I've done some revisions, I believe it will sell well in the Christian market. Those who've read it, want a sequel. If I can make a go of it, I might just write that sequel.
I've completed Buried Beneath the Midnight Blue. I love this story. It's my first attempt at first person and it's a cozy mystery. Once my critique group finishes, I'll be submitting it to agents and editors.
Still working on getting Shades of Crimson, my romantic suspense, published. It's currently with an agent and an editor. God willing, one of them will love it. Wouldn't it be wonderful if I get a three book contract out of it?
I'm also revising a couple of complete manuscripts to try and pitch them to category. Yep, I'm one busy little writer. What have ya'll been working on?
Thursday, December 14, 2006
In-Depth Characters
I don't remember who recommended "Writing and Selling Your Mystery Novel - how to knock'em DEAD with style", by Hallie Ephron, but it is one of the most in-depth books on creating characters I have ever read. The charts and graphs to be filled out seem such a small thing until you spend the time required. My heroine, Summer Meadows, is now my friend. I feel I've known her since we were children.
The drawback...I have to go back through my manuscript and "beef" her up a bit. This is all in chapter one. I can't wait to get to the rest of the book.
The drawback...I have to go back through my manuscript and "beef" her up a bit. This is all in chapter one. I can't wait to get to the rest of the book.
Saturday, December 09, 2006
A Bigger Life
Wow! What can one say about a book that gets deep into your heart, grabs hold and won't let go? In "A Bigger Life", author Annette Smith introduces the reader to Joel Carpenter, a man trying to do right as a divorced father. A man who cuts hair for a living. Having grown up under the prejudice of being the child of a homosexual father, Joel stands up for the things he believes to be right. He wants his wife back. He wants to erase his past mistakes. He wants to raise his son right.
When an unforseeable tragedy strikes, Joel experiments with knowing God, believing in miracles and the promise of A Bigger Life.
The reader will be able to relate to the characters Smith has created, getting into their thoughts, their feelings, their fears. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading about life.
When an unforseeable tragedy strikes, Joel experiments with knowing God, believing in miracles and the promise of A Bigger Life.
The reader will be able to relate to the characters Smith has created, getting into their thoughts, their feelings, their fears. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading about life.
Thursday, December 07, 2006
Fire Dancer
Colleen Coble does it again! In her latest novel, Fire Dancer she takes you into the spectacular allure of fire fighting, the Arizona desert, the heart of evil, and lifts you up into God's amazing love.
Tess Masterson is a smoke jumper called home to help her sister revive a dying ranch and to find out who is setting fires. Someone seems determined to harm Tess and her family. As Tess battles the arsonist, she also battles the raging fire within herself.
Fire Dancer is a story of love and forgiveness. Strength and weakness. God's purity and Evil's stain. This is a must read for lovers of romantic suspense.
Tess Masterson is a smoke jumper called home to help her sister revive a dying ranch and to find out who is setting fires. Someone seems determined to harm Tess and her family. As Tess battles the arsonist, she also battles the raging fire within herself.
Fire Dancer is a story of love and forgiveness. Strength and weakness. God's purity and Evil's stain. This is a must read for lovers of romantic suspense.
Monday, December 04, 2006
Another Survey
1. What is your occupation? Detention Monitor and author
2. What color are your socks right now? not wearing any. I'm a hillbilly
3.What are you listening to right now? some stupid toy that I'd like to take a sledge hammer to.
4. What was the last thing you ate? Dark chocolate M & M's. (shhh. I'm on a diet)
5. Can you drive a stick shift? Yes. They're fun
6. If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Have no idea
7. Last person you spoke to on the phone? My daughter Tina.
8. Do you like the person who sent this to you? Oh, yeah. She's my sister by heart
9. How old are you today? 44
10. Favorite drink? Cosmopolitan, but if I have to be good, it would be diet coke
11. What is your favorite sport to watch? Whatever my sons are playing
12. Have you ever dyed your hair? Yes, but right now I'm going natural. No grey yet, praise God.
13. Pets? 2 Dogs...Truly & Casey. 1 Cat...Trashcan, a fish - Floyd, two parakeets - Harry & Lloyd (get it) and a lizard-Dagon
14. Favorite food? That's a hard one
15. What was the last movie you watched? Superman returns. Did anyone catch the reference to Christ in this movie?
16. Favorite day of the year? Christmas
17. What do you do to vent anger? Yell (I know...not a good choice)
18. What was your favorite toy as a child? Barbie
19. What is your favorite fall or spring? spring
20. Hugs or kisses? Hugs
21. Cherries or Blueberries? Cherries
22. Do you want your friends to email you back? Not Sure
23. Who is most likely to respond? Not a clue
24. Who is least likely to respond? Again...not a clue
25. Living arrangements? Hubby, two sons and the animals
26. When was the last time you cried? This morning when I read a sad story about a little girl with leukemia who wanted to see Santa
27. What is on the floor of your closet? Shoes and stocking stuffer stuff
28. Who is the friend you have had the longest that you are sending this to? Frankina
29. What did you do last night? Watched a movie and ate popcorn
30. Favorite smells? flowers and baking
31. What inspires you? God
32. What are you afraid of? Getting old (dumb, I know. It's going to happen)
33. Plain, cheese, spicy burgers? Cheese
34. Favorite dog breed? Cairn Terrier or German Shepherd
35. Number of keys on your key ring? 1,000?
36. How many years at your current job? going on 4
37. Favorite day of the week? Sunday
38. How many states have you lived in? 4, California, Oklahoma, Arkansas & Arizona. 5 if you count Germany
39. Favorite holidays? Christmas!!!!!!!!!
40. Ever driven a Motorcycle or heavy machinery? Not driven, but I've ridden a motorcycle and fallen off thanks to my cousin Keith>>
2. What color are your socks right now? not wearing any. I'm a hillbilly
3.What are you listening to right now? some stupid toy that I'd like to take a sledge hammer to.
4. What was the last thing you ate? Dark chocolate M & M's. (shhh. I'm on a diet)
5. Can you drive a stick shift? Yes. They're fun
6. If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Have no idea
7. Last person you spoke to on the phone? My daughter Tina.
8. Do you like the person who sent this to you? Oh, yeah. She's my sister by heart
9. How old are you today? 44
10. Favorite drink? Cosmopolitan, but if I have to be good, it would be diet coke
11. What is your favorite sport to watch? Whatever my sons are playing
12. Have you ever dyed your hair? Yes, but right now I'm going natural. No grey yet, praise God.
13. Pets? 2 Dogs...Truly & Casey. 1 Cat...Trashcan, a fish - Floyd, two parakeets - Harry & Lloyd (get it) and a lizard-Dagon
14. Favorite food? That's a hard one
15. What was the last movie you watched? Superman returns. Did anyone catch the reference to Christ in this movie?
16. Favorite day of the year? Christmas
17. What do you do to vent anger? Yell (I know...not a good choice)
18. What was your favorite toy as a child? Barbie
19. What is your favorite fall or spring? spring
20. Hugs or kisses? Hugs
21. Cherries or Blueberries? Cherries
22. Do you want your friends to email you back? Not Sure
23. Who is most likely to respond? Not a clue
24. Who is least likely to respond? Again...not a clue
25. Living arrangements? Hubby, two sons and the animals
26. When was the last time you cried? This morning when I read a sad story about a little girl with leukemia who wanted to see Santa
27. What is on the floor of your closet? Shoes and stocking stuffer stuff
28. Who is the friend you have had the longest that you are sending this to? Frankina
29. What did you do last night? Watched a movie and ate popcorn
30. Favorite smells? flowers and baking
31. What inspires you? God
32. What are you afraid of? Getting old (dumb, I know. It's going to happen)
33. Plain, cheese, spicy burgers? Cheese
34. Favorite dog breed? Cairn Terrier or German Shepherd
35. Number of keys on your key ring? 1,000?
36. How many years at your current job? going on 4
37. Favorite day of the week? Sunday
38. How many states have you lived in? 4, California, Oklahoma, Arkansas & Arizona. 5 if you count Germany
39. Favorite holidays? Christmas!!!!!!!!!
40. Ever driven a Motorcycle or heavy machinery? Not driven, but I've ridden a motorcycle and fallen off thanks to my cousin Keith>>
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